19 reminders of mining life in South Tyneside’s pits- from success to strikes and closures
It was a huge part of South Tyneside life for decades and here are 19 reminders of the days of the colliery.
From Westoe Colliery to Harton pit, we have got scenes which will hopefully bring back memories of a bygone era.
There are colliery bands on the march and a reminder of life in the colliery villages.
Can you spot anyone you know in our retro selection? Take a look and let us know.
1. St Hilda Colliery
Waiting outside the St Hilda Colliery in South Shields in 1926. Photo: Shields Gazette
2. Shaking out the hookey mat
Colliery Square, Hebburn where this resident is pictured shaking out the hookey mat. Photo: Shields Gazette
3. Harton Colliery Lodge
Back to 1963 for this view of Harton Colliery Band leaving Armstrong Hall to play its part in the Durham Miners Gala. Photo: Hartlepool Mail
4. A chat with the miners
Arthur Blenkinsop. Labour candidate for South Shields, talking to miners George Falconer, Bill Bissett, Ronnie Moffatt, during a visit to Westoe Colliery in 1964. Photo: Shields Gazette