The Shields Ferry operates across the River Tyne, between North Shields and South Shields in Tyne and Wear, England. The service is operated by the Nexus, the Tyne and Wear PTE. Prior to takeover by the PTE in 1972, it was known as the Market Place Ferry. History Records suggest that there have been ferries operating across the River Tyne since 1377. By 1929, there were a total of eleven ferries crossing the River Tyne between Newburn and Tynemouth. Following the opening of the Tyne Tunnel between Jarrow and Howdon in October 1967, ferry traffic saw a significant decline. Today, the Shields Ferry is the only ferry service that remains. The service provides a viable alternative to travelling by Metro via Newcastle, or by road via the Tyne Tunnel. The ferry can be used by cyclists, and is part of the National Cycle Route 1. All vessels in service are also fully wheelchair-accessible. The ferry service makes just under 25,000 journeys and carries in the region of 500,000 passengers each year. Two vessels currently operate the service, Pride of the Tyne and Spirit of the Tyne. In August 2008, the service's first female general manager, Carol Timlin, was appointed. Seven years later, in November 2015, Nicola Peach was appointed as the service's first female crew member. Peach was later promoted to be the company's first female captain in May 2016, after obtaining her boat master's licence. Service Usually, only one ferry is in operation at a time, although both are used during peak periods. The service typically operates half-hourly, with a seven minute crossing time. Vessels Freda Cunningham (1972–1993) Freda Cunningham was commissioned in 1972, as a replacement for the steamship Northumbrian. It was the first diesel ferry to be commissioned, and had a reputation for unreliability. The ferry's name came from the wife of North East Labour Party leader Andy Cunningham, who was later jailed for corruption. She was also the mother of politician and cabinet minister, Jack Cunningham. The vessel was sold in 1993, when the Pride of The Tyne entered service. Shieldsman (1976–2007) Shieldsman was constructed by Hancock Shipbuilders, Pembroke Dock, and entered service in 1976. The ferry is double-ended and could operate either way, however she typically worked one way and turned around during the crossing. She could carry 350 passengers in public service, or a reduced capacity of 250 on private hire. The Shieldsman was