Restoration of South Shields's Herd Groyne lighthouse complete

The £250,000 restoration of a much-loved South Tyneside landmark is complete.

The Herd Groyne Lighthouse, which sits at the mouth of the River Tyne, on South Shields seafront, dates back to 1882 and is one of the town's most recognisable buildings. The distinctive red structure was damaged in Storm Babet, last October, and has spent much of the last five months under restoration.

Restoration work addressed much-needed repairs and maintenance and ensured the lighthouse's continued operation and preservation. The project included cleaning, repainting and fixing minor structural defects.

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The Herd Groyne is now set to return to its role as a vital navigational aid, aiming to ensure the safe passage of vessels into the River Tyne. The works, which cost roughly £250,000, were made possible after the Barbour Foundation put £100,000 towards them.

The charitable arm of the South Shields clothing brand has a historic connection to the Herd Groyne, having featured the lighthouse in its imagery since its earliest catalogues dating back to 1908. Dame Margaret Barbour said she was delighted to have contributed towards the Groyne's restoration.

She said: "The Herd Groyne is one of the North East’s most recognised and unique landmarks; it means so much to all of us at Barbour as the Herd Groyne (or Beacon as we know it internally) has been part of our history and heritage since the company was founded in South Shields in 1894. The work that has been done to restore this remarkable lighthouse will ensure that it continues to guide ships into the River Tyne for many years to come."

Matt Beeton, CEO at the Port of Tyne, thanked the Barbour Foundation for its contribution to the works. He added: "These important works will ensure the lighthouse continues to serve both the community and the maritime industry for generations to come."