A new commemorative bench has been unveiled at the entrance to Northumberland Park, North Shields — created to celebrate the town’s 800th anniversary and honour the late Hilton Valentine, legendary guitarist of The Animals.
Commissioned by Hilton’s widow Germaine Valentine, the bench was hand-forged by North Yorkshire artist-blacksmith James Wilkinson, with a bespoke antique brass plaque produced by Metal Sheets Ltd, Liverpool.

The plaque forms the focal point of the bench and features “North Shields 800”, marking the historic milestone for the town where Hilton was born and raised.

Hilton Valentine is best known for his unforgettable guitar intro on “The House of the Rising Sun”, one of the defining sounds of the 1960s.
Northumberland Park was among his favourite places to visit, and the new bench stands as a lasting tribute to his deep connection with his hometown.
A new commemorative bench honouring Hilton Valentine has been featured on ITV Tyne Tees News, where Germaine Valentine and Hilton’s childhood friend Peter Elsdon shared memories of growing up on Coburg Street.

“The Town Council is thrilled with it. Thank you to everyone involved — James Wilkinson for the beautiful bench and Metal Sheets for the awesome plaque.
It’s a fitting tribute to Hilton and his love of North Shields.”

— Germaine Valentine