Here are just 21 names associated with our city. Please note this is not a definitive list and nor does it include our acting and sporting sons and daughters. It merely attempts to cover a range of backgrounds and generations to suit different tastes.
17. Emeli Sandi
Born in Sunderland in 1987, the singer moved to Scotland with her family at the age of four but has never forgotten her roots and is now the University of Sunderland's chancellor. Photo: Jonathan Brady
18. Sir Joseph Swan
Born at Pallion Hall in 1828, he was an early developer of the incandescent light bulb and later patented bromide paper for use in photography. He died in 1914. Photo: Other 3rd Party
19. Dave Stewart
Born in Sunderland in 1952, the musician, songwriter and producer attended Barnes and Bede schools and best known as a guitarist with The Eurythmics. Still an occasional visitor to his home city. Photo: TIM RICHARDSON
20. Venerable Bede
Born 673, very probably in Monkwearmouth, he served as a Benedictine monk at St Peter's Church, pictured above, and is known as the The Father of English History for his Ecclesiastical History of the English People work. He died in 735. Photo: Tim Richardson