Our new columnist LJ Ross introduces her new Local Heroes interviews

North East based LJ Ross is an international best-selling author, local philanthropist and at the end of last year was named by The Bookseller as one of its 150 most influential figures. 

With her own publishing imprint, Dark Skies Publishing, something Louise and her family all try to live by is to be kind and work hard. That informs everything that they do and there are many examples where Louise has given back to the North East community through businesses such as Greggs, The Corbridge Larder, and Blacks Corner, as well as most recently buying new laptops for local children who didn’t have sufficient IT equipment to work whilst homeschooling. 

Louise is currently running a series of special interviews with people who represent the spirit and heart of the North East. We’re delighted to welcome Louise as a columnist, so she can share these fantastic stories with HLN readers over the coming weeks and months. Enjoy!

With special thanks to Kate Baguley, who helped to coordinate these interviews.

Claire, tell us a bit about you and your connection with the North East.

I’m actually a southerner by birth – I was born in Surrey but both my parents are from the North East, and we moved back to the Hexham area when I was 14. I enjoyed living in Edinburgh (with a year abroad in France) while at university but I knew it would only be a matter of time before Northumberland lured me back – and I have been here ever since.

Tell us about Cogito Books!

A family business from the outset, my Dad established Cogito Books back in 2001. I joined him in 2005, then I took over when he retired in July 2012. I love books and people, so running a bookshop has always been a perfect combination for me. The relationships we build with customers are absolutely central to what we do – and nothing beats the feeling of helping someone to find the perfect book and hearing that they enjoyed it. 

Is there one place you always like to visit? 

I love to be outdoors generally, and we’re really blessed to have so many beautiful places to explore in our corner of Northumberland as well as further afield. One of my favourite spots has to be Heavenfield – my husband and I got married there, so it has special significance for us, and it is also a fabulous vantage point for taking in views across the region. It’s a great destination for a walk. 

Well, you know it’s certainly one of my favourite places, too! Do you have a favourite shop or business you think everyone should know about in the region?

Yes! The Robinson-Gay Gallery in Hexham is an absolute gem. Curated by Sarah Robinson-Gay, it’s a truly inspirational space – she has a fantastic eye and brings the work of wonderful local artists together with such care and creativity. I could spend all day in there.

Who do you think is a hero in the North East?

Looking at this past year, in particular, there are so many heroes – many of whom might easily pass under the radar. So, for me, the real heroes are mostly unsung. Anyone who has found ways to be kind when it’s been really challenging; people who have looked out for one another – ordinary people doing extraordinary things. 

I couldn’t agree more. Finally, tell us what makes you smile?

Sunrises and being outside – especially if that involves walking in the hills. 

If you would like to discover more about Claire’s lovely bookshop, click here.