The 1980s proved to be a challenging time for Sunderland as a town.
Coal mining declined during the period with shipbuilding ending in 1988. The unemployment crisis rose to 20% of Mackems out of work in the mid-1980s.
But, as ever, the football club remained, providing its fans with a welcome escape.
Scroll down to view these retro Sunderland photos from the 80s.
But, as ever, the football club remained, providing its fans with a welcome escape.
4 / 4