Campaigner writes 5-star review – of Tyne Bridge

A FATHER’S rights campaigner has written a five-star TripAdvisor review of his accommodation after spending more than a week 180ft up the Tyne Bridge.
By TOM WILKINSON
Published 29th Jun 2015, 18:01 BST
Simon Anderton's view from the Tyne Bridge as the campaigner has written a five-star TripAdvisor review of his accommodation after spending more than a week 180ft up the Tyne Bridge. Picture: PASimon Anderton's view from the Tyne Bridge as the campaigner has written a five-star TripAdvisor review of his accommodation after spending more than a week 180ft up the Tyne Bridge. Picture: PA
Simon Anderton's view from the Tyne Bridge as the campaigner has written a five-star TripAdvisor review of his accommodation after spending more than a week 180ft up the Tyne Bridge. Picture: PA

Simon Anderton, 56, scaled the Newcastle landmark on Father’s Day and plans to spend another week with just the local noisy gulls for company.

During his stay, he has written a tongue-in-cheek online review of the “draughty” accommodation which he praises for its central location and “spectacular views”.

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Mr Anderton, from Heaton, Newcastle, used a rope and harness to climb the steel structure and has remained there ever since after carrying up plenty of supplies.

The TripAdvisor review of the bridge, which has since been taken down. Picture: PAThe TripAdvisor review of the bridge, which has since been taken down. Picture: PA
The TripAdvisor review of the bridge, which has since been taken down. Picture: PA

He is campaigning for Real Fathers for Justice following a lengthy legal battle.

The labourer did point out in his review there were no stairs to reach his resting place, and the lack of toilet facilities.

But he still awarded the “self catering facility in the penthouse suite” five stars, praising the “groovy industrial vibe” and “good mobile signal”.

And he ended the review: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my first week here and hope the weather improves for week two.”

Simon Anderton gave his Tyne Bridge accomodation five stars on TripAdvisor, after spending a week above it. Picture: PASimon Anderton gave his Tyne Bridge accomodation five stars on TripAdvisor, after spending a week above it. Picture: PA
Simon Anderton gave his Tyne Bridge accomodation five stars on TripAdvisor, after spending a week above it. Picture: PA

His spokesman Ray Barry said: “There are great views and he is getting used to the accompaniment of the gulls.

“He is in great spirits.”

TripAdvisor has removed the review, explaining “it did not meet our guidelines”.

Related topics:TripAdvisorNewcastle