JUST the width of the Tyne divides the piers at the river’s mouth - but writer Michael Chaplin will trek almost 40 miles to visit both.

On Tuesday, he will set of from South Shields Pier to walk upriver to the tidal boundary stone near Wylam, then cross Wylam bridge and continue walking a further 19 miles on the north side of the Tyne eventually ending at Tynemouth pier.

Michael, who has been writer-in-residence at the Port of Tyne since 2009, said: “For the last two years, I have been gathering stories, experiences and memories relating to the River Tyne and the communities and industries lining its banks.

“I am very excited about walking along both shores of the river from the piers to the Boundary Stone, covering the tidal stretch of the Tyne and the jurisdiction of the Port of Tyne itself.

“To the best of my knowledge this has never been done before.”

During the walk, which could take two weeks, Michael will record what he sees and hears for an illustrated book to be published by the Port.

Port of Tyne chief executive officer Andrew Moffat, who will be joining Michael on part of the walk, said: “This sounded like the perfect opportunity to see the river from a different perspective.

“I am very much looking forward to it, and to seeing the book that will be produced at the end.” Michael said: “The idea is to present a snapshot of the river at this point in its history.

“It’s a kind of mapping exercise, complete with accounts of conversations, encounters and unusual sights that crop up along the way.” He will be accompanied by photographer Charles Bell, and on some days by an assortment of other writers and artists who might contribute to the project in their own way.

“Anyone is welcome to join the walk, in fact it is encouraged,” said Michael.

Anyone wanting to be involved in the project should ring 0191 455 2671. Alternatively visit www.portoftyne.co.uk for more information.