South Shields market is one such shopping gem, held in the traditional Market Square every Monday and Saturday, with the 18th century old Town Hall at its heart. Home to a varied array of stalls, including, toys, clothes, books and fresh fruit, the market is a great place to pick up a bargain. Here's a look at how it's evolved over the years.
1. Bargain hunting
Shoppers wander around the many market stalls on the hunt for a bargain in 1982 | JPIMedia Resell Photo: JPIMedia Resell
2. Slow trading
Business was slow on this rainy market day in South Shields Market Place in 1992 | JPIMedia Resell Photo: JPIMedia Resell
3. Huge variety
Shoppers had a great selection of products at their disposal, with everything from clothes and toys, to plants and household items | JPIMedia Photo: JPIMedia
4. Retail therapy
Do you remember shopping here in the 1960s? | JPIMedia Resell Photo: JPIMedia Resell