The Group hopes to develop a series of informative and educational booklets about Local Heroes who are associated with Benwell and Scotswood. In the past, our area was one of great importance, associated with rich families of landowners, industrial pioneers and business magnates. Their names are known across Newcastle, throughout Tyneside and some across the world. We have worked with local experts and friends at the Mining Institute to produce our first booklet about the King of the Coal Trade, John Buddle, who is buried here at St James’ alongside his sister. John Buddle was the man who gave the land on which the church was built and who specified where he was to be laid to rest. You can read all about him in the booklet here by clicking on the link below, or you can obtain a copy free from us at the church or from the Mining Institute on Westgate Road.

buddle 8pp booklet v6 final