OMEN
02-23-2009, 04:19 PM
Geordies are well-known for braving the cold weather in skimpy clothing and it could be because they have thicker skin than people in other parts of the country.
This is one of the theories scientists are investigating as they try to find out if the Toon hardiness is anything more than a myth.
Newcastle has a reputation for being a fun-loving city where on a night out many women dress in mini skirts, crop tops and high heels, while men battle freezing temperatures in nothing more than a T-shirt and trousers.
Geordies are being asked about their coat wearing behaviour in an online questionnaire as experts try to find out whether they are naturally warmer than their Southern counterparts.
Alternatively, having no need for a coat could just be part of Newcastle's cultural habits.
The project is part of the city's 10-day ScienceFest and researchers will also go to the city's night spots to carry out investigations.
Linda Conlon, chief executive of the Centre for Life and Chair of the Newcastle ScienceFest steering group, said: "We decided to investigate the reputation Geordies have for not wearing a coat in even the worst weather.
"Is there a possible genetic reason for our bravery or is it simply because we like to show off our finery on a night out?"
The Newcastle ScienceFest will run between March 6 and 15.
It is being billed as a festival for "curious minds of all ages", and will also include a brain modelling workshop, robots fighting it out to win Robo Challenge UK, and a lesson in how to make elephants' toothpaste.
Peter Arnold, chief executive of Newcastle Science City, said: "This festival sounds bigger and better than ever and looks set to appeal to people of all ages and interests.
"What is particularly great about the variety of events is that they will be fun and really increase everyone's enjoyment of science while making them realise it is all around them, not just in a laboratory."
Sky
This is one of the theories scientists are investigating as they try to find out if the Toon hardiness is anything more than a myth.
Newcastle has a reputation for being a fun-loving city where on a night out many women dress in mini skirts, crop tops and high heels, while men battle freezing temperatures in nothing more than a T-shirt and trousers.
Geordies are being asked about their coat wearing behaviour in an online questionnaire as experts try to find out whether they are naturally warmer than their Southern counterparts.
Alternatively, having no need for a coat could just be part of Newcastle's cultural habits.
The project is part of the city's 10-day ScienceFest and researchers will also go to the city's night spots to carry out investigations.
Linda Conlon, chief executive of the Centre for Life and Chair of the Newcastle ScienceFest steering group, said: "We decided to investigate the reputation Geordies have for not wearing a coat in even the worst weather.
"Is there a possible genetic reason for our bravery or is it simply because we like to show off our finery on a night out?"
The Newcastle ScienceFest will run between March 6 and 15.
It is being billed as a festival for "curious minds of all ages", and will also include a brain modelling workshop, robots fighting it out to win Robo Challenge UK, and a lesson in how to make elephants' toothpaste.
Peter Arnold, chief executive of Newcastle Science City, said: "This festival sounds bigger and better than ever and looks set to appeal to people of all ages and interests.
"What is particularly great about the variety of events is that they will be fun and really increase everyone's enjoyment of science while making them realise it is all around them, not just in a laboratory."
Sky