Geordie range of memorabilia makes a return after 20 year gap

Geordie Ink, which began life in the 1970s and supplied stores like Fenwicks, Bainbridges, Collectables and the Geordie Barrows in the Metro Centre, was run by husband and wife Keith and Lynne Allan and designers Ken and Jean Miller from their Morpeth headquarters.

However, 20 years ago they stopped trading and for a while licensed their products to be produced by other individuals until almost fizzling out completely.

But, during lockdown, the Allans took another look at their range of Geordie memorabilia, such as the Geordie Passport and Original Geordie Tea Towel, and decided many of them were crying out to be brought back to life.

But rather than keep the exact same designs they have been reimagined and tweaked to take account of the latest trends.

Sadly Ken is no longer with us but his wife Jean is still playing her part and together the trio have created a range of about two dozen items, including pinnies, tote bags, mugs and a Geordie dictionary.

They also have a range of hard boiled sweets and biscuits.

Keith, now based at The Old Dairy in Ford, said: “We have done a bit of research and it appears that there is still a lot of interest in our original Geordie things.

"They were so cleverly designed in Geordie dialect and raised a smile with everyone who bought them.

"And bringing them up to date is exactly what Ken would’ve done so he’ll be cheering us on.”

More details at www.theolddairyinford.co.uk

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