Geordie Racer

Geordie Racer is an educational BBC Look and Read production, which was first aired on BBC2 from 12 January to 22 March 1988.

The story was set in Newcastle-upon-Tyne and the surrounding area, and featured pigeon racers and runners competing in the Great North Run.

The main character is Richard "Spuggy" Hilton (Spuggy being a nickname – the Geordie word for sparrow), who isn't a runner like the rest of his family, but is a keen pigeon fancier and owns 'Blue Flash' – one of the best birds in Newcastle.

Geordie Racer was praised for attempting to bring a grittier edge to educational programmes shown in primary schools.

The series also featured Geordie actor Kevin Whately as Spuggy's father.