Pat Barker

Noted author, born in the charming town of Thornaby, situated near the bustling city of Stockton on Tees, has made Durham City her current home. Her literary journey began with the publication of her debut novel, "Union Street", which was set against the backdrop of her native Teeside. However, her work soon transcended geographical boundaries, as her novel was adapted into the 1989 film "Stanley and Iris", starring the iconic duo of Jane Fonda and Robert de Niro, and set in the United States. Her subsequent novel, "Regeneration", delved into the poignant themes of the First World War, and was later brought to life on the big screen in 1996, starring the talented duo of Jonathan Ptice and James Wilby. This renowned author's impressive career was further elevated when she was awarded the prestigious Booker Prize in 1995, a testament to her exceptional storytelling abilities.