We've welcomed plenty of VIP visitors over the years.
Lots of them took the time to open shops, pubs, leisure centres, university buildings and here are some of them. But which did you get to meet.
Was it Lord Winston in 2011, Colin Jackson in 2015, or maybe Geoff Capes in 1985.
We've said hello to soap stars Kevin Kennedy and Shaun Williamson and here they are once again, thanks to these photos from the Echo archives.
5. Shaun takes the limelight
Former EastEnders star Shaun Williamson got a wonderful reception when he opened Kwik Save in Houghton in 2004. | se
6. Denise in the picture
Agony aunt Denise Robertson cut the ribbon to officially open the extension to Pure Bliss in Sea Road in 2009. Here she is with manager Lisa Seferi (front left) and Carol Stametti (front right) and some of the customers. | se
7. Jordan's on the spot
A 2010 scene, showing former SAFC star Jordan Henderson opening the new youth facility at Murton Welfare Ground. | se
8. Lord Winston in 2011
Lord Robert Winston who officially opened the new Sciences Complex at Sunderland University, in 2011. | se