There’s plenty of pastimes that were once part of the fabric of Sunderland life which you sadly can’t do anymore.
We’ve had a rifle through our archives to bring you some great memories from over the decades, from bagging a bargain at the Dewhirsts shop to being able to smell the hops at Vaux which filled the air on brewing days.
9. Buying toys at Joseph's
Sunderland is a bit lacking in toy shops these days, but it once had one of the best around. Josephs in Holmeside was the go-to shop for the best toys and gadgets. It's pictured here in September 1998 alongside Simpsons the bakers and the trendy West One, which are also a big miss. Photo: Sunderland Echo
10. Shopping at Binns
Binns in Fawcett Street was once one of the then town's best shops and was a household name that actually started life in Sunderland, at the original store in High Street West. It's seen here in 1962. Photo: Sunderland Echo
11. Buying a car at Cowie's
Sir Tom Cowie was one of Sunderland's greatest businessmen, setting up a transport Empire. Back in the day you could pick up the latest model of car from a Cowies dealership. In February 1994 Sunderland University teamed up with Cowies in an effort to improve the way cars were sold. Riding off with £100,000 research partnership agreement, right, Gordon Hodgson and Professor Dennis Wilson, director of the university's business school. Photo: Sunderland Echo
12. Bagging a bargain at Dewhirsts
You could pick up a real bargain from the outlet shop at Dewhirsts and the distinctive yellow gingham uniforms, and white socks, of its workers almost became as famous as the shop itself. In February 1997 a film crew visited the Leechmere factory. Pictured here are, from left: Ann Adams, Jackie Finnigan, Pat Spooner, Julie Wales, Stephaney Brown and front, Wendy Purnell. Photo: Sunderland Echo