South Shields project takes a step back in time

Eras are being brought back to life through the written word in South Tyneside.
Back, Janet Wylie, left, and Pat Went. Front, from left, Paul Thompson and Maureen Jane Thompson.Back, Janet Wylie, left, and Pat Went. Front, from left, Paul Thompson and Maureen Jane Thompson.
Back, Janet Wylie, left, and Pat Went. Front, from left, Paul Thompson and Maureen Jane Thompson.

Students who attend Workers Educational Association EA classes run by tutor Janet Wylie have put pen to paper to recount their own memories of times gone by.

The group, who meet at South Shields Central Library in Prince Georg Square, will eventually have their work featured in a forthcoming exhibition.

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Mrs Wylie said: “The class has produced quite a few booklets regarding aspects of South Shields over the past few years.

“The group’s objective is to research and write about their home town. They have produced excellent results which the whole group have enjoyed.

“This term the group is starting work on an exhibition focusing on past and present employers in South Shields.”

Subjects include: Paul Thompson writing about his time spent working on the buses. His work was in tribute to two workmates and featured memories of some of his memorable passengers during his time and as conductor and driver.

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Maureen Thompson wrote about her dad and his lifelong devotion to German Shepherd dogs and his dedication to running dog obedience classes.

Derek Moulding chose to write about the riverside and the changes that have taken place from his home in River Drive to his unit in Portberry Street.

It includes a compilation of his own photos taken over the years and Pat Went wrote about her childhood home in North Shields.

For information on the sessions email Janet on [email protected] or call 0191 4554830 or 07954413542.