Nigel Taylor

I am a retired civil engineer who worked in construction for over 40 years, across England and Scotland, I am the proud father of two sons, Chris and Phil, and I have one lovely granddaughter, Rose, who is two and calls me Papa Nige!

I am Sunderland born and bred, starting out life in Amberley Street, Hendon, attending St Marys and then St Aidan's School. I moved away to Manchester to study at Salford University for my degree, but returned home regularly.

During my career, I was involved in the construction of, amongst many other projects,  Arsenal's Emirates Stadium, the Nissan car manufacturing plant, and the ExCeL Exhibition Centre in London. Yet, perhaps one of the most enduring projects I worked on was completed early in my working life, when I involved in rebuilding the North Breakwater on the River Coquet at Amble, to protect the little fishing town.

In my role as Project Director, I travelled all round the country to work, but always kept my home in Sunderland.

I love football, and in spite of the trials and tribulations, I am a passionate supporter of SAFC and the City of Sunderland in general. I am a season ticket holder and this is a passion I have inflicted on my two sons, who come to the home matches with me.

Since retiring, I have been kept busy remodelling my new house and I am heavily involved in the current campaign to save the National Glass Centre, a cause which I feel passionately about.

I am also an avid enthusiast of local history, I enjoy exploring new destinations, and have a keen appreciation for music, supporting live events in the City and beyond.

Now, as an We'ar Shining the Light reporter, I hope to enthuse and inspire older people to try new things, celebrate their achievements and keep active.