Justice Trail
Fascinating facts including gruesome acts about crime and punishment have been brought to life in a trail across Newcastle.
The Justice Trail links the past through some of Newcastle city’s oldest buildings, tourist attractions and street names to today’s justice system.
Through Northumbria Local Criminal Justice Board, and with the help of Newcastle City Council guides and Newcastle College, the Justice Trail sparkedinterest in the Criminal Justice System (CJS) by first exploring its past.
The Trail, lasting two hours, links buildings such as Newcastle Cathedral and The Castle Keep, to Gallowgate and the Town Moor, exploring their contribution to law and order in the city. It also answers questions such as how Gallowgate got its name, when the last hangings took place, where prisoners were held and what punishments they received and by whom.
The inaugural Justice Trail took place in May 2008 when the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Newcastle, Cllr David Slesenger and Cllr Jackie Slesenger, the Mayor and Mayoress of Gateshead, Cllr Joe Mitchinson and Mrs Jen Mitchinson, join Chief Crown Prosecutor Nicola Reasbeck, chair of Northumbria LCJB, on a guided tour.
The Trail will also be brought to life by students of Newcastle College School of Music and Performing Arts, who will re-create scenes and interact with guests as real characters associated with Newcastle’s history.
Nicola Reasbeck said: “ This is a fun and fascinating way to explore Newcastle’s past and encourage people to look at the Criminal Justice System today. ”
The Justice Trail book, with a map and history of each location, is also available free, from council offices, libraries and tourist information points in Newcastle, or by clicking on the link on the right.