Did this Sunderland venue have its own rhino? Answers please!

The Sunderland venue, on the corner of Queen Alexandra Road and Leechmere Road, may have had changes of names down the years.

But it has not stopped our readers from expressing an opinion on the place which, in various guises, has been open since 1938 and has also been known as the Alexandra Hotel and The Alexandra.

We posted a social media photograph of it from its days as the Porcupine and more than 18,000 people were reached.

Dozens had comments including Bob Jackson who said: “I remember being in there once when I was a kid and I was fascinated with the american football stuff they had on the ceiling.

“I thought it was so cool,” he added.

Loraine Douthwaite was another fan and said: “Many a good night spent here x”

Lots of people told us that they either worked there or knew someone who did. They included;

Kathleen Wiseman commented: “I worked there,so did my mam. We had some good times there,loved it,x”

Lynn Frost told us: “I worked there then great.”

Tammy Howe added: “My sister worked there used to love it x” and Brenda Arkley chipped in with: “I worked there when it first opened good memories.”

George Conley commented: “It’s still posh!” while Anthony Young had a question which hopefully other Echo readers can answer.

“Was there a big rhino for kids to play on?” is he right in his recollections? Get in touch and tell us more.

We’d love to hear from more people with memories or anyone who can answer Anthony’s question. Email [email protected].