Interesting post.
As someone wo married a Geordy (person born in Gateshead) I can tell you that as far as I am aware, Manchester is the fastest growing community in Europe, not Gateshead.
As for the community, it is warm, caring and heimish. However you must be aware that it is not for everyone. The kehilla is very litvish and yeshivish. There is nothing there that caters for anyone outside of these style of life.
Also being close knit, you may not appreciate everyone knowing your business if you are a private type of person.
If you are really considering it as an option, I recommend you rent an apartment there for a few weeks to see if it meets your requirements and tastes.
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