Newcastle and Gateshead set to welcome the Queen’s Baton Relay

The Baton, carried by local people, will start from the Angel of the North before making its way through Low Fell at 4.20pm to Saltwell Park where people will be able to take part in a range of sports taster activities from 4.30pm, before the Baton will arrive.  The Birmingham 2022 mascot, Perry, will also welcome the Baton into the Park, which is one of only a very few appearances he will make across the 25 days of the relay in England.

The Baton will complete its journey through Gateshead before crossing the River Tyne by boat. It will then be carried up to Grey’s Monument before descending back to the Quayside.

To welcome the baton into the city, Newcastle City Council has organised an end of day celebration that takes place at Wesley Square from 5.30pm – 7.30pm.

Cllr Lesley Storey, Newcastle City Council cabinet member for a Vibrant City, said: “We’re delighted to be welcoming the Queen’s Baton Relay to Tyneside in the build up to this summer’s Commonwealth Games, and we’re excited to welcome the Batonbearers and spectators to celebrate in Newcastle.

“The end of day celebration will offer something for everyone, including plenty of chances for people to try their hand at some of the events on display at the Birmingham 2022 games.

“I’d encourage people to come down to see the relay make its way through our city and round off what promises to be a memorable occasion at our Quayside celebration event.”

Gateshead Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Leisure, Councillor Angela Douglas said: “The Queen’s Baton Relay is yet another fantastic opportunity to celebrate sport in our region and we’re delighted to welcome the inspirational Batonbearers as they travel across the borough. It’s also an exciting opportunity for people to come together to show their support and join in the fun activities in our award winning Saltwell Park. I look forward to seeing everyone on the day.”  

Representatives of Newcastle Eagles, Tyne Bridge Harriers and Hat Trick, the Elswick-based community sports development programme, will be on hand to allow attendees to try their hand at versions of Commonwealth games sports including basketball shoot outs and free throws, running bleep tests, foam javelin throwing, standing long jumps and much more with prizes for those achieving the best scores.

Metro Radio will also be on hand to provide the entertainment for the event and will be welcoming the Baton in at the end of the day at approximately 6.45pm.

Katie Barker, captain of Newcastle United Women will be carrying the baton on behalf of the city on its final leg of the day along the Quayside.

With street food stalls and other refreshments available from Urban Garden the event will have a real festival feel.