One reason for their dwindling number is the 2003 Licensing Act, which allowed pubs to open virtually round the clock. There was less reason to frequent a nightclub.
But what memories.
In the 1980s and 1990s Cheap nights in the city were Monday in Chambers, Tuesday Ku Club, Wednesday everywhere, Thursday Blue Monkey; which brought you to the weekend when you could go out and enjoy yourself.
Here is a brief history and some unabashed clubbing nostalgia from someone who was familiar with most of them.
13. Hero’s/Fosters, Frederick Street - don't believe everything you've heard
A downstairs club, as Foster’s it was the subject of a Toy Dolls song Fisticuffs in Frederick Street, their B-side to Nellie the Elephant. This cemented its reputation at one of Sunderland’s ‘livelier’ nightclubs. Now long closed, it later changed its name to Heroes - the quip of the time being that you needed to be one to go in. All exaggerated I’m sure. Photo: Sunderland Echo
14. Fino’s, Park Lane - beyond sophistication
Subject of the Toy Dolls’ (again) 1985 number 93 chart smash She Goes to Fino’s, this was a favourite haunt of Sunderland footballers. In the 1980s footballers had little interest in any music which was devoid of a sexy sax solo; and Fino’s duly obliged. Smoooooth. Customarily packed on a weekend, the club was on the first floor of what is now Port of Call. If anyone knows where the name Fino’s came from, please let us know. Photo: Sunderland Echo