It’s the year when Adam & The Ants were riding high in the charts with Prince Charming and Stand And Deliver.
Soft Cell and Human League were just as successful and all this was happening closer to home.
Take a look and re-live some great times in 1981. And then get in touch if you have memories of your own to share.
1. A family tradition
Vicar of St Hilda's, the Rev Jim Vincent and the three Softley sisters who began a family tradition of bellringing. Left to right: Enid, Kath and Brenda in 1981. Photo: Shields Gazette
2. Celebrating in Jarrow
Jennie Inskip, right, head teacher of Hedworthfield Junior School, Jarrow and student nursery Dawn Purcell were pictured getting into the swing of things when the school held a fancy dress as part of their Jarrow 1300 celebrations in 1981. Photo: Shields Gazette
3. Hard at work in Wood Terrace
Members of Friends of the Earth at work in the garden at Wood Terrace during the Wood Terrace Field Day in April 1981. Photo: Shields Gazette
4. Retro runners at Redwell
The Redwell Comprehensive School Cross County team champions in 1981. Pictured are back; Fiona Nicholson, Alyson Lincoln, Dawn Tate, Centre, left to right: Lorraine Johnson, Karen Gibbs, Lindsay Young, Leah Marshall. Front, left to right: Debra Flood, Nicola Stephenson and Julie Hatch. Photo: Shields Gazette