South Tyneside

South Tyneside is a metropolitan borough in Tyne and Wear in North East England.

Language

'Geordie' is the local accent and dialect of people born in South Tyneside. It is regarded for its extensive dialect, sing-song accent and distinction. 'Sandancer' (Sand dancer) is a term often referred to as a native of South Shields, though 'Geordie' is more widely used and recognised.

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The term Sandancer is a reference to the longstanding (though often rather tenuous) Arab connections of the town, and a popular mid-twentieth century comic Music Hall turn by Wilson, Keppel and Betty (who had no known South Shields connections), which imitated depictions of dancing in Egyptian tomb art.

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