Sting, the Wallsend-born musician and former singer and bass player with The Police, has accepted the freedom of his home borough of North Tyneside, 13 years after it was first offered to him. Sting had been awarded the honour back in 2010, though his “robust” touring schedule had delayed him from receiving it.
Sting has stated that everything he has achieved in his life was “dreamt up in North Tyneside,” and that having the borough acknowledge this is a kind of fantasy for him. The musician arrived at the ceremony, which took place at North Shields’ historic Exchange 1856 building, via the Metro from Newcastle’s Central Station, a route that goes through his hometown.
Despite the changes in the city, Sting recognizes that enough is the same for him to still feel at home. He believes that the “distinct, profound sense of place” and “fierce regional pride” of Tyneside is what keeps him grounded, even in the midst of his successful career.
The scroll given to Sting acknowledging his outstanding achievements, lasting influence on the global music landscape and advocacy for North Tyneside. When asked about what he wants for his career, Sting stated that he has been touring since 1977 and just wants to continue walking out in front of crowds of 10-20,000 who are all pleased to see him
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