Can you spot someone you know in these South Tyneside memories of the Miners Gala from years gone by

The pandemic has put paid to this year’s Miners Gala going ahead on the streets of Durham.

But if you are missing the Gala and it’s wonderful atmosphere, here’s a reminder.

Every one of these photos is from the Shields Gazette archives and they all show collieries from the South Tyneside area enjoying their day out.

The question is … can you spot someone you know? Take a look.

5. Boldon in 1982

What a turnout from Boldon lodge at the July 1982 Big Meeting. Photo: Sunderland Echo

Boldon Colliery miners and their families, with the lodge banner marching through Durham City 62 years ago. Photo: Hartlepool Mail

Plenty of Westoe faces in this 1982 scene. Can you recognise any of them? Photo: Sunderland Echo

Pictured at the 1979 Durham Miners Gala. Photo: gz