Last week saw the opening ceremony extraordinaire across Newcastle and Gateshead quaysides for the launch of the Great Exhibition of the North. The UK’s largest event in 2018 will provide a free, 80 day summer long celebration of the North of England’s pioneering spirit. A programme of amazing exhibits, displays of innovation, new artworks will deliver some unforgettable experiences and memories. I was tasked by Newcastle Gateshead Initiative to showcase the opening evening ceremony (which included live music, water fountains, light displays, aerial illuminated drones and fireworks) through a portfolio of WOW! images such as would not be captured by anyone else from the sane vantage point. Therein followed much advance planning, site reconnaissance and the trading in of a lot of favours in order to secure THE best seat in the house. As dusk fell I arrived on site with my very tallest pair of stepladders and as much photographic equipment as you could possibly place in a kitchen sink, should you so wish to. And for once, just this once, Mother Nature also decided to be in a sympathetic mood with a wonderful sunset followed by lovely starlight, starbright skies. A selection of images from the event can be seen below