Here’s a look back at the past 12 months. We’ve picked one story from each month for a glimpse of what went on in 2019. They might inspire, annoy or amuse you.
9. SEPTEMBER: Aly is a wonder-woman ... in more ways than one
At the Great North Run, Sunderland super-athlete Aly Dixon broke the world record for a half-marathon dressed as a superhero. Donned as Wonder Woman, she ran 1.18.26, shattering the previous record and raising thousands for St Benedict's Hospice. Photo: Sunderland Echo
10. OCTOBER: Great days and praise as Hays amaze
Glasses are raised across the country to Sunderland firm Hays Travel. Owners John and Irene Hays were applauded nationally after they stepped in following the collapse of Thomas Cook. They bought 555 stores saving 2,500 jobs. Photo: Sunderland Echo
11. NOVEMBER: Clock ticks again after more than 30 years
A little piece of city centre history was restored when the clock at the top of the Dun Cow pub in High Street West was repaired. The clock hadn't worked since the 1980s. The repair is part of £760,000 of work being done at the Dun Cow and its sister pub, The Peacock. Photo: Stu Norton
12. DECEMBER: Johnson's last ditch effort to woo Wearside voters
Prime Minister Boris Johnson visited Fergusons Transport factory in Washington on the campaign trail for the general election. It didn't quite work. Sunderland again returned three Labour MPs, but with substantially reduced majorities, while the Tories swept to power nationally. Photo: Sunderland Echo