New scheme named after local photographer is officially opened

A special ceremony took place to make the opening of Tish Murtha House, which started welcoming residents late last year.

Patricia Anne Murtha, or Tish as she was known, grew up in Elswick which became the scene of her most well-known work, with local children from St Michael’s Primary School selecting her name when asked to name the new Housing Plus development.

It was only after Tish’s death ten years ago that she began to receive the recognition she deserved.

Tish’s daughter Ella, grandson Dexter Murtha-Brown and other family members were joined by officials from YHN and Newcastle City Council plus residents for the official opening on March 14 – which would have been Tish’s birthday.

A selection of Tish’s photographs from Elswick and the surrounding area have also gone on display at Tish Murtha House for residents there to enjoy.

Ella Murtha said: “My Mam was everything to me and since she passed away, I have made it my mission to get her work the recognition she deserves.

“My Mam always wanted people to feel like their lives mattered, that wherever they came from, whoever they are, they are as important as anyone else.

“I’m sure she would be honoured to have her name on a building that will make such a positive difference to the lives of so many people.”

Tina Drury, Group Managing Director at YHN, said: "In some ways I'm sort of tinged with sadness it is Tish's birthday today and she can't be with us but then there is no better day to celebrate and remember all her achievements and what she did and how she was a role model.

“Tish and Ella as people who stand out who are passionate about what they do and what they have done and they are inspirational and encourage all of us if we have a passion and dream to go for it.

“Tish’s photos show poverty and deprivation but also the resilience and tenancity of the local community. I was a housing officer in this area in the 1980s when most of these pictures were taken. The sense of community was always there and I wish we could in some way get that back into our local neighbourhoods. Even though people back then had nothing, they did share with others.

“This is a very fitting legacy that Tish has left us, and to be able to name this development as Tish Murtha House is something that will last forever. These photographs provide an opportunity for residents and visitors to talk about times gone by and remember the time from the 1970s and 80s.”