Can only echo what most have said here about Newcastle and the instructors. Been flying with most of them and can honestly say that they're a great, professional bunch of people. I too considered Teesside when the old Aero Club went bust but the thought of an hour driving there and another driving back in both time (how valuable is yours?) and in all kinds of weather put me off.
The Club is friendly and done out nicely. Socially it has improved enormously and the new bar does excellent food all day. The chicken wrap is to die for!!!
If I lived closer to Teesside, I'd go there. I don't and I'm supporting GA in Newcastle.