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.
13. King Oswin
The King of Deira, part of Northumberland, is largely believed to have been born in South Shields in 651. Our picture shows an actor portraying him at the town's Arbeia Roman Fort. Photo: Stu Norton
14. Nick Pickering
Born in 1963, Pickering, right, remains the last South Shields-born footballer to have played for England after gaining one full cap in 1983 while at Sunderland. Photo: Sunderland Echo
15. Chris Ramsey
Born in 1986, the comedian and former Harton Technology College pupil returned to his old school to train for his recent appearance on Strictly Come Dancing. Photo: Stu Norton
16. Dame Flora Robson
Born in 1902, among her movie roles are Black Narcissus, 55 Days in Peking, and Clash of the Titans. Dame Flora, pictured centre, died in 1984 and has a street named after her in her home town. Photo: SE