Hi mate. Some of the modelling books available have sections on painting, but you'd need to look for those that are aimed at basics, for beginners. You could always join the IPMS, or a local model club, where the members will be more than willing to help you.
As it's a long time since I lived in your area, I'm not sure if the Model Shop is still in Blenheim Street in Newcastle, but the people there, wherever the shop is now, can probably point you in the right direction. Failing that, most UK modelling magazines will have an ad giving details of the International Plastic Modellers Society.
Hope this helps.