21 famous people who were born in South Shields
We have an abundance of both widely known and unsung heroes to be rightly proud of here in South Shields.
With apologies to anyone who does not make this list – and we accept it is far from definitive – here are just 21 of our more recognised sons and daughters.
9. James Mitchell
Mitchell, pictured above on a return to South Shields, was born in 1926 and created television series When The Boat Comes In and Callan. He died in 2002. Photo: Freddie Mudditt
10. Stan Mortensen
Born in 1921, Mortensen became a wireless operator in the Second World War and was the only survivor of an RAF plane crash. He became a Blackpool football legend, where the above statue stands, and scored 23 goals and 25 England games. He died in 1991. Photo: Other 3rd Party
11. Joe McElderry
The 2009 X Factor television contest winner was born in 1991 is a former Harton Technology College pupil. Despite finding fame on stage and TV, he has never forgotten his home town since - raising cash for charities and taking part in the Great North Run. Photo: Stu Norton
12. Bob Olley
Born in 1940, Olley attended Westoe Secondary Modern School. He found fame after becoming an artist and sculptor. He is best known for humorous drawings such as The Westoe Netty. Photo: Stu Norton