After millions of visitors, countless artworks and events and even more memories, National Glass Centre closes its doors today.
Campaigners are still fighting passionately to save the NGC, which honours 1350 years of glassmaking on Wearside.
It’s become a real landmark for the city, but at less than 30 years old is closing today after owners University of Sunderland announced three years ago that they could no longer afford to repair or fund the upkeep of the major visitor centre and its glassmaking facilities.
You can read the latest from the campaigners here.
As part of a series of lookback features on this cultural and heritage asset on the banks of the Wear, here’s some more photos from our archive over the decades, from Royal Visits to some real glass acts.
5. People in glass houses
Staff at the former Throwing Stones during the restaurant's heyday. | Sunderland Echo
6. Keys to the door in 2019
The National Glass Centre celebrating its 21st birthday in 2019 and taking part in one of the activities painting glass were Charlie (9) and Elina (7) Danlon-Jones of Gateshead | Sunderland Echo
7. Iconic scenes
Ghost the Musical cast Molly played by Rebekah Lowings and Sam played by Niall Sheehy recreate the iconic pottery scene at the National Glass Centre | Sunderland Echo
8. A Royal handshake
HRH Princess Anne meets local dignitaries for the Tall Ships Races. | North News & Pictures