Valentine's Day in Sunderland, from the 1970s onwards

Show your love for these retro Valentine scenes

By Chris Cordner

Published 13th Feb 2024, 13:35 BST

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Valentines Day. Dont you just love it.

Plenty of people have done in Sunderland over the years and we've got the Echo archive photos to prove it.

You lot have shown your love for pets, sweethearts and for charity and here are those scenes once more - as well as on our retro tribute film, which is attached.

A lovely celebration of the past

Cute pooches Flossie and Perry stole our hearts in this PDSA photo in Sunderland in 1974.

The launch of the PDSA special appeal for funds in 1974.
Pictured are Miss Coro Guerney with Flossie, and Bryan Johnson with Perry, stars of the pantomime at Sunderland Empire Theatre. — The launch of the PDSA special appeal for funds in 1974. Pictured are Miss Coro Guerney with Flossie, and Bryan Johnson with Perry, stars of the pantomime at Sunderland Empire Theatre.

The launch of the PDSA special appeal for funds in 1974.
Pictured are Miss Coro Guerney with Flossie, and Bryan Johnson with Perry, stars of the pantomime at Sunderland Empire Theatre. — The launch of the PDSA special appeal for funds in 1974. Pictured are Miss Coro Guerney with Flossie, and Bryan Johnson with Perry, stars of the pantomime at Sunderland Empire Theatre.

Did you try out the romantic seats in the Odeon? They were installed in time for Valentines Day in 1975.

In 1980, a display of 19th century sweetheart cards went on show at Sunderland Museum.

Sunderland Museum secretary Judy Sunley, pictured in 1980 with old Valentine cards, dating back through the 19th century.

Sunderland Museum secretary Judy Sunley, pictured in 1980 with old Valentine cards, dating back through the 19th century.

And they were making hearts out of glass at the National Glass Centre in 2006.

Making hearts at the National Glass Centre.

Making hearts at the National Glass Centre.

Some people have used the day to show their love for fundraising.

Children from Fulwell Kindergarten marked the day with a balloon release in 2003 and so did the youngsters Town End Farm Nursery in 2008.

A powerful message in pink

Also in 2008, Sunderland College students wore pink to raise money.

However you plan to celebrate the day, remember to show your love for the Sunderland Echo's retro pages.

Do it by emailing [email protected]

Sunderland Echo Sunderland Valentine's Day Memories Film Nostalgia Odeon

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