Nine pictures of JL Thompson and Sons as we remember Sunderland's shipyards and their importance in our history

They were once a mainstay for employment on Wearside.

Published 15th Jan 2023, 16:09 GMT

The shipyards were a huge part of Sunderland’s past and here are nine photos from a yard that many will remember.

From clocking off to watching a ship launch, we have it all in these scenes.

Take a look and then get in touch to share your own shipyard recollections.

1. A launch in 1959

The two new diesel hopper barges when they were launched at the North Sands yard of Joseph L Thompson in 1959. Photo: Sunderland Echo

The Duke of Edinburgh at the North Sands shipyard of Joseph L Thompson in 1963. Did you meet him? Photo: Sunderland Echo

Modernisation at the yard in 1970. Photo: se

The North Sands yard of Joseph L Thompson and Sons - and that of John Crown and Sons - lit by the glare of arc lights in 1951. Photo: SE