'I cried my eyes out when I was evacuated': Sunderland woman, 91, shares incredible memories

The Fellow of Sunderland University - who got the honour from Emeli Sande as Emeli sang Happy Birthday to her - has shared her memories in an amazing interview.

A life well lived - but Elsie still has one aim

Elsie spoke to Sunderland Echo journalist Chris Cordner for the latest episode of the Wearside Echoes podcast.

She relived the days when she was evacuated from Sunderland during World War II, and remembered ‘sobbing’ as she went on the train journey to Thirsk.

Elsie also recalled the time when, as a young adult, she worked as a junior clerk and had to type up a report on a promising young footballer coming through the ranks at school. It was Jimmy Montgomery.

And she remembered the days when she kept award-winning budgerigars, as well as the time when she met Mickey Rooney on stage.

Catch Elsie’s interview on podcast

Elsie still gives public talks for the Friends of Sunderland Museums (Fosums) and she has a memory like no other.

She has one remarkable aim that she wants to complete in her life - but you will have to listen to the podcast when it goes live on Tuesday, June 17.

In the meantime, you can catch lots of other episodes by visiting here.

Wearside Echoes series 2 is available on all major podcasts platforms and we are delighted to have Mobility Care Solutions on board as our backers.

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