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.
5. Ready to appear on stage
Were you pictured getting ready for a production of The Boyfriend in South Tyneside in 1981. Photo: Shields Gazette
6. Stamp of approval in 1981
Capt. David Robinson (left) and Capt. Frank McNulty with some of the thousands of postage stamps sent in South Tyneside in response to a regional fund raising appeal for charity. Who remembers this from 1981? Photo: Shields Gazette
7. Top apprentices in 1981
Colin McVay (left), and James Moore both 19, were voted apprentices of the year by South Tyneside Council in 1981. Photo: sg
8. A sparkling scene at Bents Park
Emma Louise Lynn enjoys her sparklers at the Bents Park fireworks display in 1981. Photo: Shields Gazette