Alexander Armstrong discusses northeast pride and pastry culture
- Alexander Armstrong, originally from Northumberland, held a schools event in Newcastle to promote his children's novel.
- He aimed to engage children by discussing the northeast's historical significance, but they surprised him by mentioning Greggs, a local bakery.
- This interaction highlights a shift in cultural pride, emphasizing contemporary symbols over traditional industries.
Alexander Armstrong, a Northumberland native, recently engaged with schoolchildren in Newcastle during a promotional event for his first children's novel, 'Evenfall: the Golden Linnet.' This thriller revolves around a clandestine group of storytellers in the northeast of England. During the event, Armstrong sought to highlight the region's historical significance, hoping the children would mention notable aspects like coal mining and shipbuilding. However, the children's response was unexpected, as one boy enthusiastically shouted 'Greggs,' a popular bakery chain known for its pastries. This moment reflects a shift in cultural recognition, where contemporary symbols of local pride, such as food, take precedence over traditional industries. Armstrong's efforts to instill a sense of regional pride through storytelling and history underscore the importance of cultural heritage in shaping identity. His work aims to inspire a new generation to appreciate their roots while also embracing modern influences.