Sunderland had a red letter day to remember and the people of the city turned out in their thousands to greet Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on a fine day in May.
It was back in 2002 that she came to Wearside to open the new-look Winter Gardens and to speak to the huge crowds which had gathered outside.
The original Sunderland Winter Gardens opened in November 1879 as part of a new museum and library complex designed to showcase the city's glassmaking heritage.
But it was destroyed by bombing in an air raid in 1941. A new, modern Winter Gardens was restored and reopened in May 25 years ago.
What a turnout there was for the special occasion and we compiled this gallery of Sunderland Echo photos to celebrate it. See if you can spot someone you know in the crowds.
If you do, get in touch and tell us more by emailing [email protected]
1. A day to remember
These two youngsters enjoyed a day of great flag waving. We hope they had great memories of the day. | se
2. A gift with a difference
A gift of balloon art was a great moment for Her Majesty on her visit to Wearside in May 2002. | se
3. Welcome Your Majesty
Queen Elizabeth II joined civic dignitaries at the opening of Sunderland's Winter Gardens in May 2002. | se
4. A special day in Sunderland
The Queen at the opening of the Winter Gardens in 2002. We would love to hear from anyone who was there. | Local Library