UPDATE: The beloved cast of the iconic 1970s children’s show, The Paper Lads, has reunited nearly 50 years after its debut, and the nostalgic moment has been captured in an exciting new video released on YouTube. The reunion of four original cast members—Tony Neilson (JG), Andrew Edwards (Ian), Gavin Kitchen (Baz), and Peter Younger (Gog)—is now live, offering fans a chance to relive the magic of a series that defined a generation.
The reunion video, titled The Paper Lads Reunion – The Making of the 1970s ITV Children’s Series, runs for 52 minutes and was produced by Mulgrave Audio. In it, the former child actors reflect on their time filming in Gateshead, sharing laughter and memories from nearly five decades ago. Edwards noted, “We didn’t realize it then, but we were capturing a slice of Tyneside history—on bikes, in flares, with a script.”
When The Paper Lads first aired on August 24, 1977, it resonated deeply with young viewers who were familiar with the real-life experience of delivering newspapers. The series, described as a “lively blend of excitement, drama, and humor,” quickly became a cultural touchstone, leading to a second series in 1979.
As the world has shifted towards digital news, the nostalgia for paper lads is palpable among those who remember the thrill of riding bikes and delivering news. The four actors, now middle-aged, reminisce about their childhoods and the impact the show had on their lives. Kitchen remarked, “It wasn’t just a TV series—it was our childhood, our city, and a bit of magic stitched into every frame.”
The show’s authentic portrayal of working-class youth and its setting in Tyneside fostered a strong connection with audiences, making it a cherished memory for many. The theme song, Back Home Once Again, performed by the band Renaissance, further solidified the show’s identity, along with memorable characters like Jack Crawford, played by Glynn Edwards.
In this timely reunion, the cast explores the cultural significance of the series and what it meant to grow up performing in a show that has remained in the hearts of viewers for decades. “We were just kids mucking about—but somehow, it became something people still remember 50 years on,” Neilson stated, highlighting the lasting impact of their youthful antics.
Fans can watch the full reunion film on YouTube and relive the moments that shaped their childhood memories. To stay updated on more nostalgic stories, consider joining ChronicleLive’s dedicated community for breaking news and historical archives. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to reconnect with the past!
This heartwarming reunion is not just a celebration of a TV show but a testament to the enduring bonds formed during its production. As the actors share their journey, it serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling and how it continues to resonate through generations.
