From Billy Hughes to Len Shackleton and Charlie Buchan to Willie Watson, some of Sunderland’s heroes of their era sold everything from shoes to sweets.
We have historians and authors Alan Brett and Philip Curtis to thank for this insight.
If you want to find out more about Wearside’s past, their book Going Shopping in Sunderland is available from Sunderland Museum, Sunderland Antiquarian Society, Fulwell Post Office, Clay’s Garden Centre and www.summerhillbooks.co.uk. It costs £4.99.
In the meantime, join us on a journey back to the shops of the stars.
9. Billy Hughes at his shop
Billy was pictured in June 1975 outside his new shop in Vine Place. Billy's Shughes specialised in 'ladies and gents distinctive shoes'. Photo: se
10. Ted Purdon
Ted Purdon played for Sunderland between 1954 and 1957 and scored 39 goals in 90 matches. He was a partner in a newsagents. Photo: other 3rd party
11. Ken Chisholm
Ken Chisholm was a forward with Sunderland between 1953 and 1956. He scored 33 goals in 78 games. He was also a partner in a newsagents. Photo: other 3rd party
12. Tell us more
To share your own memories of Sunderland players from the past, mail [email protected] and tell us more. Photo: ugc