Front Street Sunniside

There was once a country lane, traversing open common land. Two Acts of Parliament saw the beginning of a change to this rural simplicity:-

1) The formation of a turnpike trust in 1797, with powers to improve the Gateshead to Wolsingham road. A new route was chosen from between Streetgate to Maiden Law, which followed Marley Hill Lane up to High Marley Hill, then on to Crookgate, The Hobson, Flint Hill and Catchgate. 2) Blackburn Fell was enclosed by Act of Parliament and the enclosure awards were read out at a public meeting at Lamesley on 5th November, 1812. Five men were awarded plots of land which later came to form the site of Sunniside Front Street. a. John, Earl of Strathmore, who was allotted land where The Crescent, Sun Hill, The Potters Wheel. Bowes Close, Sunniside (Kindred's) Wood, and the Car Park for the newly built top shop now stand. At the three latter places, oak, beech, and fir trees were planted. b. Sir Thomas Henry Liddell, got land where Burdon Park, Alexandra Terrace, The Allotments and Sunniside Methodist Church now stand. c. Robert Thirlaway, was allotted 3 acres where Granby, Thirlaway and Ravensworth Terraces now stand, also what was known as Snow's Field. d. Martin Brown, Grocer at Old Sunniside, got the land where The Rising Sun Inn and Sun, Larch, Beech and Elm Streets now stand. e. Luke Brown, also of Old Sunniside, got the land where Dewhurst Terrace and Elm Street West now stand. The land now being in private ownership, and with an improved main road passing through it, could now be developed. A summary of the subsequent building is:- First to be built The Rising Sun, next came the old Chapel, then the Over 60's Hall, in 1837., Granby Terrace from 1841 – 1861, Dewhurst Terrace in 1902, the new Methodist Church, Sun Street, the new 'Travellers Rest', 1, Alexandra Terrace, 1 - 2 Gateshead Road followed from 1910 - 1914. and the petrol filling station site from 1919 onwards. The road was tar macadamed and steam rolled, as part of the road improvement from High Team Bridge to Crookgate, this was done by Whickham Council from 1919 - 1920.

Starting from the petrol filling station, we will cover the East side of the road, to Alexandra Terrace, then come back up on the other side to finish at the newly built top shop. The petrol filling station traded for many years but over the years residents had complained about the strong smell of petrol in their homes and on the street. In the early part of the new century things came to a head and the petrol station closed. It transpired that the underground tank was badly fractured and had been leaking for some time. To date October 2005 the effects of the stench in the residents homes has still not reached a satisfactory conclusion.

"The Potter's Wheel", started off as "The Blue Parrot" and was one of the first night clubs in the North East. It then became a Chinese Restaurant, known as "The Golden Palace". The Potter's Wheel, was opened by Billy Sherwin. In 1982, Derek and Pauline Armstrong were the proprietors. In 1991, it was closed due to damage by a fire and after refurbishment re-opened a year later.

"Sun Hill", was built in 1968, by George Wimpey & Co. Ltd. at a cost of £80,000, for Whickham Urban District Council. It contains thirty two self-contained flats for elderly folk. There is a Communal Laundry Room, Television Room, and a Resident's Lounge with a piano.. There is a Warden's Bungalow attached and a link up to each flat, by a bell system, so residents can summon the Warden for assistance. In 1992, a lift was installed, in the main block. Sun Hill, stands on the site of the village recreation field. In 1936, Whickham Council took over from Lamesley Parish Council, in paying a yearly rent of £8 to the Earl of Strathmore for use as a childrens playground. In the 1950's, there were swings and a football field. Sunniside Imperial (Imps) Associated Football Club used the field for their fixtures and Sunniside children spent many happy hours playing there and it was a sad loss when the field was taken away from them. There was no consultation with the residents, the Council made the decision behind closed doors.

A Methodist New Connexion Chapel (pictured above) was built in 1837, a relatively small branch of the Wesleyans. The exterior of the old Chapel had been significantly altered over the years. With the building of the present Methodist Church at the bottom of the village in 1910, the old Chapel became the Sunday School, for the following twenty two years, then was used as a meeting place for various social groups. Mrs. Lily Craig (nee Douglas), attended the Sunday School as a child during the First World War. Apart from learning the Holy Scriptures, she made mats for the Chapel funds and knitted socks for the Servicemen. Her husband Bob Craig, who worked as a bricklayer, was the Chapel organist for many years.

In the 1920's on Wednesday evenings, there was a 'Pleasant Hour' held. The young children listened to a class leader telling a Bible story. They were sometimes rewarded with a penny for remembering the story the following week. In the 1930's, the Sunniside Guides and Scouts assembled there. In 1940, a Youth Club was formed for boys and girls at the Chapel by the Reverend. Tom Sanders. After the War, Harry Roddam held woodwork classes for the lads. The Youth Club Soccer team also trained here. During the Winter months of the War, the Home Guard also assembled there. In 1952, an Over 60's Club was formed at Sunniside and this building is now widely known as it's 'Headquarters'. Sadly due to lack of attendance the over 60’s club ceased to exist and the building fell into a state of disrepair, despite the efforts of local people to use it as a Youth Club the Chapel was sold to property developers and was totally demolished in 2003.

Robert Thirlaway (1759 - 1831), of Streetgate Lane, was awarded the three acres of land between Sunhill and Alexandra Terrace, on the enclosure of Blackburn Fell, although it seems a Mrs. Wildegoose had some claim to this land in 1805. Robert also got two acres where Union Cottage (Carraig Thurragh) now stands. In 1821 he was awarded a piece of land near where Hollywell Lane is now, from the Whickham Fell enclosure.

In 1841, William Thirlaway (1787 - 1845), began to build Granby Terrace (pictured above), starting at the top end next to the old Chapel. Chapel Opening, was at this time, very narrow, due to a coal shed abutting on the side of the Chapel. The opening led to a garden at the back. This was before a lane was made, up to the top end of Ravensworth Terrace, in the late 1850's. William's eldest son, John Thirlaway (1824 - 1903), owned Granby Terrace in 1856, at which time, he was the victualler at "The Granby Arms", Low Streetgate. John, along with his brother Thomas Grey Thirlaway (1827 - 1907), also ran Streetgate Farm. Around about 1860, Streetgate Farm was taken over by James Swan. Thomas moved to Union Cottage and in 1865, John moved to Granby Terrace. John became a Coke Weighman at Marley Hill Colliery and he built Guthrey Villa in 1876, where,in his later years, he was the Sub-Postmaster for Sunniside and a Beer Retailer.

The top two houses of Ravensworth Terrace were built about 1860. By 1871, the lower end had been completed, all were made of stone. the five houses at the lower end, were demolished in 1959, they had 'T' fall roofs and 'stable doors' at the back. The top end of Thirlaway Terrace, was built in the early 1890's, they were originally flats. Home Cottage is dated 1889. Between here and 19, Granby Terrace, there was a short row of toilets and a pair of stone houses, which were back- to-back two by two in 1891. They were still standing in 1949. Towards the bottom end of Granby Terrace, the front of the houses were built with Colliery firebricks, on the site known as 'The Wash Hole'.

There has been a shop. where the 'Pot Pourri' stands now at 5, Granby Terrace, for many years. Tom Henderson (1817 - 1901), was a Grocer there for 40 years, before he retired in 1894. He was also class leader and Superintendent of the Sunday school at Sunniside. Tom worked at Marley Hill Coke Ovens and his wife and daughter kept the shop. His daughter Mary Anne married Walter Fenton of Lingy Fine (1850 – 1920). The shop became a Post Office in 1893 with Walter as Sub-Postmaster, then after a lapse of a few years, resumed again in 1904. Walter was a Sunday School Teacher at Sunniside Methodist Chapel and served for a number of years on Chester-le-Street Rural District Council, Chester-le-Street Board of Guardians and Whickham School Board. Mary Fenton continued to run the Post Office, Grocery and Drapery Shop after Walter's death. Number 14, was the last house to be built in the Terrace. Up until about 1860, there had been a gap in the Terrace here, to allow access to some of the rear yards. A narrow passage remained here and was used as a short cut from Holmside Terrace to the Front Street but this was blocked up in 1958. Next door at number 15, Tom Crawford had a Grocer's shop from 1850 to 1891. In the 1920's the Kehoe sisters, had a milliner's shop at Number 17. Around 1900, Doctor Arthur William Attwater (1847 - 1904) of Whickham, held a surgery at 7, Granby Terrace and in the early 1920's Mrs. Burns, let her front room at number 8, to Doctor Andrew Smith of Whickham.

A public Beer House was built of stone around 1858 (pictured above), where "The Traveller's Rest" is now, it was called "The Greyhound" - Robert Fenwick was the first Licensee and he also worked as a Cobbler. During the 1870's, Alexander Livingstone was the Beer House Keeper and he also had another job, i.e. at Marley Hill Coke Ovens. In 1891, the house was called "The Board", which was once a common name for a Pub, and was ran by George Stott. Public houses showing no Sign were commonly called the Board or sometimes the Letters. George had been a Butcher at Streetgate, his younger brother William, kept "The Rose, Shamrock and Thistle", as well as being a Butcher. By 1894, George had changed the name to "The Traveller's Rest". In 1910, Richard Dillon (1863 - 1948), was the Beer Retailer at the "Traveller's Rest". Richard was the eldest child of Patrick and Bridget Dillon, of Granby Terrace. He had five sisters and four brothers. In his younger days, Richard worked at Marley Hill Coke Ovens, along with his father and brothers. Around 1912, the stone house (pictured above) was replaced by larger premises - the present brick building. Around 1925, Richard's wife Lottie, opened a Fish and Chip shop, next door to the Pub, where "The Beauty Box" is now, then after the Second World War, she rented the place out, as a Ladies Hairdresser's, probably the first in the village. The cellars beneath the Pub, at one time, extended beneath the Hairdresser's shop (now blocked off). At the beginning of the Second World War, Charlie Dillon, strengthened this part, for use as an air-raid shelter. Around 1929, Tom Punshon came from the "Black Horse", in Burnopfield, with his daughter Annie. Some Boxing Tournaments were held at the rear of the Pub in the 1930's and later, Marley Hill Colliery Band practised here. On Durham Miner's Gala Day, they met and played outside, in front of the Pub.

Holmside Terrace was built about 1905, for the Holmes family, who got the land from Mr. W. Snow, of Guthrey Villa. Matthew Holmes, was brought up at Granby Terrace and worked on the Tanfield Railway in the 1880's. His grandfather, Aaron Holmes, lived at High Green, near Old Sunniside, in the 1840's. About 1890, Matthew moved to Ravensworth Terrace from Granby Terrace and was by this time, a Mineral Guard, on the Railway. His two eldest sons also worked on the Railway. Alec, the youngest son, born 1886, was a Carter and had Stables on the end of Holmside Terrace in the early 1920's. Holmside Terrace overlooked Snow's Field, which was built over in 1988 and was the home of Patch, a bay horse, for many years. The path which leads from here to Lingy Fine, is at least 190 years old and before the Enclosure was probably a Bridle Way. At the top end of the strip of land on which Alexandra Terrace now stands, once stood Bracken House. Where the path is now, at the front of the Terrace, a public path led up to the house. By 1881, the house was divided into two households - Tom Dobson and Tom Davison's. In 1891, the place was called locally, Railway Cottage. Tom Davison was still there when Mary Ann Head moved from Old Sunniside Farm, where her late husband, Thomas, was the Farmer in the 1870's. The house was still standing in 1914.

A little to the East of the Bakers Shop (featured below), there was Boyd's-Cobblers Shop (pictured above) which was demolished in 1993 because it stood on a field bought by propert developers to build a housing estate. Robert Swann Boyd was only 21 year old when his back was injured, in an accident at Whickham Colliery. This resulted in him being laid off from heavy work . He lived at Askew Road and for a time found work as a knocker-up, to Miners living in Teams and Redheugh area.. He learned shoe-making and set up shop in his own back yard. He then opened a shop on Askew Road. His brother took over here, when Robert and his family moved to Sunniside and built his workshop (a wooden hut), in 1934, near the bottom of Alexandra Terrace. His son Ernie Boyd, began learning the trade, when he was 12 years old (around 1933). He helped his father by collecting boots for repair, using a sack slung over his shoulder.

Mr & Mrs. Ralph Bell, ran a General Dealers shop, at the end of No. 2. Gateshead Road, from the early 1920's to the late 30's. Their eldest daughter Margaret, married Bob Middleton and they continued the shop until 1960, when it became the Post Office under Mr. Smith.

Around 1913, Edward (Ned) Reed, established a Butchers Shop at No.l. Gateshead Road. He was brought up at Marley Hill, the son of Edward Reed, Engineman at Marley Hill Colliery. He was one of the Reed Brothers, who had shares in the Venture Buses. In the 1920's, Ned had a horse and cart to ply his trade, around the streets of Sunniside.

He also carted coal for his own house, from the sidings of the N.E.R. at Pennyfine Road. Beast were slaughtered on the premises, at first, led from local farms, on the hoof. Later they were brought in by lorry, the rear yard had a cattle stall, stable and hay loft.

Sid Clark began at Reed's in 1928, after leaving school. Joe Croft also served his time here, before he went to work for Burnopfield Co-op Society. By far the longest and best known worker for Reeds, was Jack Johnson, who came here in 1920, after serving his time at Swalwell Co-op Store. He retired in 1966. Ned Reed, bought Whickham Lodge, along with his brother Robert Michael Reed, Painter & Decorator, where they intended to develop part of the Estate in 1937. Money was to be made in the Butchery trade and Reeds had two vans out on the streets in the 1950's. The assistants found extra work for themselves, killing pigs for local people, also turkeys etc. at Christmas time. Michael Furness also worked here in 1974. John R. Reed was the proprietor in the 1950's and 60's.

Alexandra Terrace was built just before The First World War. The bottom half being built first, this was known as "Honeymoon Terrace", because the new occupants were nearly all newly-weds. Electricity was installed around 1933 and 'flush closets' in 1937. From 1914 - 1921, George Cook, Baker, Confectioner and Caterer, had his shop at 1, Alexandra Terrace (pictured above). About 1922, Robert and Elizabeth Appleby, took over the business and in 1928, was continued by their daughter, Sarah and her husband, Walter Greenhill, a New Zealander. The Bakery in the yard, behind the shop, had two ovens, both heated by coke. Here in 1928, a Baker and two Assistants were employed. Starting work as early as 3 a.m., the dough was mixed in a large wooden trow (trough), then cut and weighed, 2lbs 4ozs for a large loaf and l lb 2ozs for a small one. It was then shaped and put into tins, put on a hot-plate for the dough to 'prove' (rise), then placed in the oven to bake. Mrs Greenhill served in the shop with an assistant, while Walter delivered the bread and cakes, in a horse drawn van, in the early days. Molly, the grey mare, was stabled at Dene Farm. Walter then bought a Morris Oxford van. He was assisted by John Coulson Morton, known by some of the Miner's wives, at Marley Hill, as 'Sugar Morton'. Jack was 14 years old and he pushed a small cart, fitted with shelves, around Marley Hill, Byermoor, The Causey and Birkheads. He had to sell a certain amount of bread and cakes before he earned any money for himself. He sometimes rode over to Riding Barns on Molly, with two baskets of cakes and bread for Mrs. Bowman. In 1930, Jack was given a Morris Minor van, for the delivery round and the area was widened to include Whickham and Belle View near Tanfield .

Around 1932, Jospeh William Hall came from Leadgate, to run the Bakery (but not the shop). His son Havelock took over when he came out of the Army, after the Second World War. He was assisted by his wife Louise, also Jenny Leybourne. At Christmas time, Havelock cooked turkeys in the bread oven, for folk whose own ovens were too small to take a turkey. In 1959 Havelock gave up the Bakery and became a Bus Driver for Northern General Transport. Mrs Greenhill was widowed in 1930 and she became the Postmistress at Sunniside, in which capacity she continued until 1960, as well as running the Bakery Shop.

(The photograph was kindly provided by Yvette Gainsford of Christchurch New Zealand a direct decendant of the Greenhill family)

Up until 1908, the old Sunniside Methodist Chapel was administered by the Superintendent Minister, Secretary and Treasurer, after which, the Chapel was ran by appointed Trustees, who soon agreed it was time to set about building a larger Chapel. They tried unsuccessfully, to aquire a site next to the old Chapel, but eventually got the present site, from Lord Ravensworth, on a 999 year lease, the annual rental was £2. The new United Methodist Chapel, (pictured above) was opened on the 20th August, 1910. Built by William Hockey, of Whickham, to the designs of Karl B. Spurgin, Architect, of Newcastle, at a cost of £1,210. It took only seventeen years for the Chapel members to pay off this debt. A second hand organ was bought, for £275, and installed in 1922, replacing the piano, used since 1910. This in turn, was replaced by an electronic organ in 1955. In 1960 the Choir Vestry was enlarged, the cost being met from the sale of the old Chapel, to the Over 60's Club and a gift of £100 from Mrs. S. Liddle.

About the time of the First World War, the Douglas family, of Lingyfine, had private pews at the Chapel, for which use a quarterly subscription was paid. Also at this time, the annual picnic for the Sunday School Children was held in a field at Jacob Wright's Farm, Wasting Row. About 1935, Prinn's buses were hired for the children's annual seaside outing. Another momentous occasion for the children, especially the girls, was the Chapel Anniversary Day, for which the girls were fitted out with their best hat, dress and gloves, sometimes newly bought for the event.

In 1934 the Chapel had three Choirs - the Married Women's Choir, led by Miss Hannah Armstrong (Mistress of Sunniside Infants School), the Men's Choir, led by Harry Roddam, and the Junior Choir. The Ladies Choir sang the Operettas, i.e. "The Bohemian Girl" and "The Merry Milkmaid", touring the District, giving Recitals and raising funds for the Chapel. Leslie Fenwick painted the scenery for them. Leslie and his wife were leaders of the "Sunniside Revellers" who travelled to neighbouring chapels, using Dick Clarke's car for trans - port, giving variety concerts. The 10 strong group were mostly members of the chapel and included Lily, George, and Bob Wallace, with Walter Rouse.

In November 1935, Andrew Bateman was presented with a Westminster chiming clock, by members of the Chapel, in appreciation for having been their Organist and Choir Master for 30 years.

In the early 1930's a Social, would be laid on at Christmas Eve, when nothing stronger than ginger beer was drunk. Just before midnight the younger members of the party, went Carol singing around Sunniside and Streetgate and sometimes didn't arrive back home until 6.00 a.m. 'Uncle' Bill Patterson of Elm Street was Choirmaster in the 1940's.

From the late 1940's to the mid 1950's, John Blackmore and Doris Dinning, helped to run the Youth Club, which elected it's own Committee and ran a Canteen. Members had to attend Church Services once a month and on Festival days. They formed a Youth Choir. The club was a member of the Methodist Association of Youth Clubs and five members were selected to make the trip to London, for the Annual meeting, at the Royal Albert Hall. They stayed over the weekend, sometimes in hostels or with Londoners, who were members of the Association. About fifty girls and boys went to the Youth Club at this period. The Women's Fellowship meet on Tuesdays at the chapel.

In 1841, William Wilson was the Publican at "The Sun Inn". In 1850, Will Rutherford had the license, though the Pub was mainly run by his wife Elizabeth, as Will worked at Marley Hill Colliery. In 1856, Will Surtees was the Victualler. In 1861, Dorothy Storey ran the Pub, with the help of her daughters. Her husband Robert (1804 - 1880) was a miner at Marley Hill and the family came from Wylam, one of the many who came from this area to start up the newly opened 'pit' in the 1840's. They lived at The Hole in 1851. In 1866, the Sunniside Benefit Society met at "The Sun" and the articles of the Society were strict:- The membership was for women only, and on joining, she was to be in good health, as well as her husband and children. Each member paid 9d every fourth Monday, with thirteen payments per year into the general fund. Meetings for payments were to be held at the Sun Inn, from 7 p.m. - 8 p.m. in a hired room, the cost of which was met by each member paying for one and a half pence worth of drink at the pub. A Secretary kept the accounts and the Society was run by elected Stewards. £3 Funeral money was paid out (once a year only) on the death of a member or her husband, or nominee (who had to be aged between 14 - 45 years and unmarried). 30 Shillings funeral money was paid out on the death of a member's child. An annual dinner was held, if approved by a majority of members. At the end of the year, after deducting all expenses, the remainder if any, of the years contributions, was divided equally amongst the members. This Society was similar to the Box Clubs in Durham, earlier in the Century, in which working class families paid regular instalments, as an insurance against sickness and funeral expenses.

In 1873, Robert and Reuben Storey kept the Pub, by 1879, James Davison was in charge. The Pub now being called "The Rising Sun" (pictured above). James had married Mrs. Margaret Brabban, the eldest daughter of Robert Storey. James died in 1888, and the Pub continued to be run by his wife. She was assisted by her son Will Brabban, a Miner, who also ran a Brake at weekends, for locals wishing to go to Gateshead. Margaret died in 1907, and the Pub was taken over by Joseph Davison. In 1907, the Pub was used as the meeting place of the Marley Hill and Sunniside District Unionist Association (newly formed), also the Loyal William Hutt Lodge of the Manchester Unity of Oddfellows, who met here as early as 1842, for their Anniversary supper. When Joe died in 1915, at the early age of 39, his wife Louisa, daughter of James Esson, continued at the Rising Sun. Her brother Charles Esson, kept the "Marquis of Granby". In 1934, Jimmy Davison was the Landlord. Arthur and Doris Scorer took over the tenancy of the pub in 1955, they had formerly managed "Marquis of Granby" at Streetgate, Arthur died in August 1983 and Doris retired later that month. During their time at the Rising Sun it was acknowledged that they had produced the finest pint of beer in Sunniside.

Next to the Public House, was the private house, built around 1860, for Will Rutherford and family. In 1881 Robert Walton, Butcher, lived here and in 1890, Will Stott, Butcher, occupied the place. Just before the First World War, the White brothers - Jimmy, George, Tommy and Stan - were brought up in this house. Jimmy (born 1899) as a lad, led a horse down to Lobley Hill, ready to couple it on to Will Brabban's Brake on it's return journey from Gateshead.

In 1890, the Newcastle Breweries Ltd., took over the "Rising Sun", the private house and the freehold land adjoining, amounting to 1 acre 6 perches, from John Barras and Co Ltd., Brewers. To the West of this, Mark Fenwick, Banker at Newcastle and William George Woods, Merchant at Newcastle, were tenants of a similar area of land.

In 1910, John Hutchinson, of Ivy Cottage, Sunniside, bought both plots of land covering 2 acres 11 perches, for £250, on condition that he would erect within five years, thirty substantial dwelling houses, with a general plan approved by the Newcastle Breweries Ltd. None of the houses were to be used as a Club or for the sale of intoxicating liquor. Will Hockey, of Whickham was the Building Contractor.

Beech Street was built first, the houses selling for £190 each. By the end of 1911, Elm Street odd numbers and Sun Street were built, selling at £200 each. In 1913, Elm Street even numbers were built and by the beginning of 1914, Larch Street was built, these cost £210 to buy. The materials for building the houses, came up the railway and collected at the siding at Pennyfine Road. Fosters of Felling, supplied most of the bricks and Lumley Brick Company supplied the glazed bricks used in the sculleries. The houses had wood gutterings and inside were lit by gas mantles, fitted on the walls. The kitchen had a fire range for cooking. The scullery had a tap, with a pottery sink and a set pot in one corner, with chimney flue, to heat water for wash day. Coal shed and ash closet in the back yard. The ventilation holes high up in the toilet walls, overlooking the back lane, were ideal nesting places for Starlings. Up until 1940, iron railings graced the front of Sun Street, these were removed to help make armaments for the war effort.

Up until 1908, the old Sunniside Methodist Chapel was administered by the Superintendent Minister, Secretary and Treasurer, after which, the Chapel was ran by appointed Trustees, who soon agreed it was time to set about building a larger Chapel. They tried unsuccessfully, to aquire a site next to the old Chapel, but eventually got the present site, from Lord Ravensworth, on a 999 year lease, the annual rental was £2. The new United Methodist Chapel, (pictured above) was opened on the 20th August, 1910. Built by William Hockey, of Whickham, to the designs of Karl B. Spurgin, Architect, of Newcastle, at a cost of #1,210. It took only seventeen years for the Chapel members to pay off this debt. A second hand organ was bought, for £275, and installed in 1922, replacing the piano, used since 1910. This in turn, was replaced by an electronic organ in 1955. In 1960 the Choir Vestry was enlarged, the cost being met from the sale of the old Chapel, to the Over 60's Club and a gift of £100 from Mrs. S. Liddle.

About the time of the First World War, the Douglas family, of Lingyfine, had private pews at the Chapel, for which use a quarterly subscription was paid. Also at this time, the annual picnic for the Sunday School Children was held in a field at Jacob Wright's Farm, Wasting Row. About 1935, Prinn's buses were hired for the children's annual seaside outing. Another momentous occasion for the children, especially the girls, was the Chapel Anniversary Day, for which the girls were fitted out with their best hat, dress and gloves, sometimes newly bought for the event.

In 1934 the Chapel had three Choirs - the Married Women's Choir, led by Miss Hannah Armstrong (Mistress of Sunniside Infants School), the Men's Choir, led by Harry Roddam, and the Junior Choir. The Ladies Choir sang the Operettas, i.e. "The Bohemian Girl" and "The Merry Milkmaid", touring the District, giving Recitals and raising funds for the Chapel. Leslie Fenwick painted the scenery for them. Leslie and his wife were leaders of the "Sunniside Revellers" who travelled to neighbouring chapels, using Dick Clarke's car for trans - port, giving variety concerts. The 10 strong group were mostly members of the chapel and included Lily, George, and Bob Wallace, with Walter Rouse.

In November 1935, Andrew Bateman was presented with a Westminster chiming clock, by members of the Chapel, in appreciation for having been their Organist and Choir Master for 30 years.

In the early 1930's a Social, would be laid on at Christmas Eve, when nothing stronger than ginger beer was drunk. Just before midnight the younger members of the party, went Carol singing around Sunniside and Streetgate and sometimes didn't arrive back home until 6.00 a.m. 'Uncle' Bill Patterson of Elm Street was Choirmaster in the 1940's.

From the late 1940's to the mid 1950's, John Blackmore and Doris Dinning, helped to run the Youth Club, which elected it's own Committee and ran a Canteen. Members had to attend Church Services once a month and on Festival days. They formed a Youth Choir. The club was a member of the Methodist Association of Youth Clubs and five members were selected to make the trip to London, for the Annual meeting, at the Royal Albert Hall. They stayed over the weekend, sometimes in hostels or with Londoners, who were members of the Association. About fifty girls and boys went to the Youth Club at this period. The Women's Fellowship meet on Tuesdays at the chapel.

In 1841, William Wilson was the Publican at "The Sun Inn". In 1850, Will Rutherford had the license, though the Pub was mainly run by his wife Elizabeth, as Will worked at Marley Hill Colliery. In 1856, Will Surtees was the Victualler. In 1861, Dorothy Storey ran the Pub, with the help of her daughters. Her husband Robert (1804 - 1880) was a miner at Marley Hill and the family came from Wylam, one of the many who came from this area to start up the newly opened 'pit' in the 1840's. They lived at The Hole in 1851. In 1866, the Sunniside Benefit Society met at "The Sun" and the articles of the Society were strict:- The membership was for women only, and on joining, she was to be in good health, as well as her husband and children. Each member paid 9d every fourth Monday, with thirteen payments per year into the general fund. Meetings for payments were to be held at the Sun Inn, from 7 p.m. - 8 p.m. in a hired room, the cost of which was met by each member paying for one and a half pence worth of drink at the pub. A Secretary kept the accounts and the Society was run by elected Stewards. £3 Funeral money was paid out (once a year only) on the death of a member or her husband, or nominee (who had to be aged between 14 - 45 years and unmarried). 30 Shillings funeral money was paid out on the death of a member's child. An annual dinner was held, if approved by a majority of members. At the end of the year, after deducting all expenses, the remainder if any, of the years contributions, was divided equally amongst the members. This Society was similar to the Box Clubs in Durham, earlier in the Century, in which working class families paid regular instalments, as an insurance against sickness and funeral expenses.

In 1873, Robert and Reuben Storey kept the Pub, by 1879, James Davison was in charge. The Pub now being called "The Rising Sun" (pictured above). James had married Mrs. Margaret Brabban, the eldest daughter of Robert Storey. James died in 1888, and the Pub continued to be run by his wife. She was assisted by her son Will Brabban, a Miner, who also ran a Brake at weekends, for locals wishing to go to Gateshead. Margaret died in 1907, and the Pub was taken over by Joseph Davison. In 1907, the Pub was used as the meeting place of the Marley Hill and Sunniside District Unionist Association (newly formed), also the Loyal William Hutt Lodge of the Manchester Unity of Oddfellows, who met here as early as 1842, for their Anniversary supper. When Joe died in 1915, at the early age of 39, his wife Louisa, daughter of James Esson, continued at the Rising Sun. Her brother Charles Esson, kept the "Marquis of Granby". In 1934, Jimmy Davison was the Landlord. Arthur and Doris Scorer took over the tenancy of the pub in 1955, they had formerly managed "Marquis of Granby" at Streetgate, Arthur died in August 1983 and Doris retired later that month. During their time at the Rising Sun it was acknowledged that they had produced the finest pint of beer in Sunniside.

Next to the Public House, was the private house, built around 1860, for Will Rutherford and family. In 1881 Robert Walton, Butcher, lived here and in 1890, Will Stott, Butcher, occupied the place. Just before the First World War, the White brothers - Jimmy, George, Tommy and Stan - were brought up in this house. Jimmy (born 1899) as a lad, led a horse down to Lobley Hill, ready to couple it on to Will Brabban's Brake on it's return journey from Gateshead.

In 1890, the Newcastle Breweries Ltd., took over the "Rising Sun", the private house and the freehold land adjoining, amounting to 1 acre 6 perches, from John Barras and Co Ltd., Brewers. To the West of this, Mark Fenwick, Banker at Newcastle and William George Woods, Merchant at Newcastle, were tenants of a similar area of land.

In 1910, John Hutchinson, of Ivy Cottage, Sunniside, bought both plots of land covering 2 acres 11 perches, for £250, on condition that he would erect within five years, thirty substantial dwelling houses, with a general plan approved by the Newcastle Breweries Ltd. None of the houses were to be used as a Club or for the sale of intoxicating liquor. Will Hockey, of Whickham was the Building Contractor.

Beech Street was built first, the houses selling for £190 each. By the end of 1911, Elm Street odd numbers and Sun Street were built, selling at £200 each. In 1913, Elm Street even numbers were built and by the beginning of 1914, Larch Street was built, these cost £210 to buy. The materials for building the houses, came up the railway and collected at the siding at Pennyfine Road. Fosters of Felling, supplied most of the bricks and Lumley Brick Company supplied the glazed bricks used in the sculleries. The houses had wood gutterings and inside were lit by gas mantles, fitted on the walls. The kitchen had a fire range for cooking. The scullery had a tap, with a pottery sink and a set pot in one corner, with chimney flue, to heat water for wash day. Coal shed and ash closet in the back yard. The ventilation holes high up in the toilet walls, overlooking the back lane, were ideal nesting places for Starlings. Up until 1940, iron railings graced the front of Sun Street, these were removed to help make armaments for the war effort.

Around 1923, John Cadwallender of 12, Sun Street, let his front sitting room out, as a Barber's Shop (pictured above on the left), to Mr.Dunn and he also made a small counter, with shelves behind, to sell confectionery. His wife Margaret, kept the Sweet Shop until 1965. Bob Grieveson, of Streetgate, was the next Barber to rent the front room. A Barber's red and white pole was displayed outside, inside a fine pair of horns from the head of a Highland Bull hung on the wall. The busiest time was on Friday evenings and Saturdays, when the men sometimes queued to have a shave and a haircut. Inside the shop, there was only seating for about six customers and some of the men went next door, into the Pub, to sit out their turn. At the busy times, Bob employed a lather lad. Jack Morton, aged 13, worked here in 1927. He lathered the men's chins in one chair, while Bob was shaving a customer in the other chair. For hygiene purposes, some of the men had their own shaving mugs at the Barbers. Jack also swept the floor and listened to the crack - a real gossip shop! Doctor Stephen Boland, of Burnopfield, sometimes called in at the Barbers shop, where he had an arrangement for some of his patients to collect prescriptions and medicine. Ralph Jobson, of Burnopfield, was the Barber from 1948 - 1966. In the late 1940's schoolgirls had their hair cut at Ralph's. Unfortunately due to falling custom, the barbers shut in the late 1960’s.

Paul Johnson. B.D.S., started a Dental Surgery at 10, Sun Street (pictured above on the right) in 1983. A popular young man with an equally popular assistant, local girl Anne Kemp, he has built up a thriving practice.

Over the front door of No.9. Sun Street, was displayed the badge of Durham Constabulary and was the house where the Sunniside Policeman lived. P.C. Hugh Dodds was here in 1960, after which two Police houses were built on the site of Lottie Brabban's Cottage, opposite East Sunniside Farm.

At 8, Sun Street, Mrs.Bell, let her front room in the late 1930's, to George Wilkinson, Dentist, for use as a Surgery. His patients had to wait in the passage for their turn. Mr. Wilkinson had his main Surgery at Stanley and held a Surgery once a week at the Front Street, Whickham.

At 2, Elm Street, Mrs Nelly Rolf, had a Fish and Chip shop, in her back kitchen in 1925. At 4, Elm Street, there lived Mr & Mrs.W.Vickery, who celebrated their Diamond Wedding here in 1932. Will came from Somerset in the 1870's, to work at Marley Hill pit, one of about 34 families who came from the West Country around this time, to get work. Will brought with him an early 19th Century, long-case clock, made by Robert Gulliford, of Dunster and this remained in the family's possession until 1991. In the 1960's Eddy Hogg, Joiner at Marley Hill Colliery, tended a grape-vine in his back garden, at 22, Elm Street, from which he got about forty bunches of grapes each year. His wife Mary, was able to make red wine with them. The vine was a "Black Hamburg" and was a cutting from the greenhouse at The Grange, Marley Hill (the Colliery Manager's house). From 1950 - 53, Mrs. Jane Elliott, of 28, Elm Street, let her front room three mornings a week, to Doctor Michael Bell, when he first set up his practice at Sunniside.

Dewhurst Terrace was built about 1902. Some were flats. At No.18. Mrs. McAvoy had a Ladies Drapery Shop, in the early 1950's and was assisted by her daughter, Florence. There was an 'Off-Licence' shop here from the 1970's until 1993. Police Constable, Robert Shillaw lived at 14, Dewhurst Terrace in 1921. In the early 1920's and up 'till 1952, Jack Mason and later his daughter, Ethel, had a Newsagents shop, at 16, Dewhurst Terrace. Ethel married Benny Irwin, who had a Cobblers shop at Chapel Opening.

Some time in 1925, James Shorten, of Alexandra Terrace, (a Methodist lay preacher) started a Fish and Chip shop at 13, Dewhurst Terrace. James and Lilian Dunphy, took over in 1956 and retired in 1983. The fish shop eventually became a Chinese Takeaway (pictured above next to Tommy Whites shop). Around 1928 Larry Dunphy, had a Fish and Chip shop, in a wooden hut, at the bottom of the Store Bank. In 1921, Harry Ord, had a Drug Store at No.12. and by 1929 William and Sydney Blackburn had taken it over. They also had Chemist shops at Burnopfield and Swalwell. You could purchase Paraffin here also.

The shop next door to the fish and chip shop has been a Newsagents since 1952, when Tommy White established the business (pictured above). In his younger days, Tommy was an Apprentice Joiner to Dick Clarke, of Streetgate for a few years. The better wages to be made at Marley Hill Colliery, lured him away before completing his apprenticeship. The shop is snow a newsagents, post office and general dealer.

The shop at No.9. seems to have started as a Newsagents in 1925, after the war it became a General Dealers. Ralph Crowder and his children, Malcolm and Katherine, all qualified as Dispensing Chemists, they have run the Chemist Shop here since 1984. Prior to their arrival, people had to travel to Whickham for prescriptions. The house may have been owned by Burnopfield Co-op Society at one time.

The Co-op didn't arrive in Sunniside until fifty-three years after the first one in our area opened at Blaydon in 1867. The members in the Burnopfield area broke away to form Burnopfield Co-op Society in 1889. The first shop of Tanfield Industrial and Provident Co-op Society, was established in a Cottage at Causey Row, in the early 1860's it prospered, new premises were aquired within a few years, at White-le-Head, and in 1866, new shops were built at Tantobie.

In July 1911, Sunniside Branch of Burnopfield Co-op (pictured above on the right), was opened by Mr. J.W. Bell, President of the Society. At Nos. 1 and 2, Dewhurst Terrace, were Grocery, Drapery and Butchery Departments on the ground floor, above were, Billiard and Reading Rooms also a Library. No.3. Dewhurst Terrace, became the Manager's House. In September 1921, new premises, adjoining the top end of Dewhurst Terrace, were opened by Mr. Robert Heslop, President of Burnopfield Co-op Society. Built by Messrs. A.&.R. Davis, of Burnopfield, designed by John Eltringham, of Blackhill. The Carpentry, Shop Fixtures and Central Heating Installation, were done by C.W.S. workmen. The front was faced with freestone, from Heworth Burn quarry. The Grocery Department measured seventy-nine by twenty-six feet. The rear part being used for Packing, also had a Loading Dock, with hoist alongside. This communicated with the Flour and Grain Warehouse above, forty by twenty-seven feet in area. The flour and grain were conveyed by galvanised steel chutes, down to the packing room. A dry goods store-room, lit from the top, was next to the Packing Room. There was further storage in the lower ground floor, some 50 x 40 feet in area.

Next door was the Drapery Department, thirty-eight by twenty -four feet, with a Warehouse at the rear, with access to the Loading Dock. A handsome staircase, with stained glass windows, led from the Drapery to the Millinery Showroom and Boot & Shoe Department. At the rear of the premises were Stables, Harness Room and a covered Shed for vans. (Now being used by Lowdon's buses).

Total cost, around £13,600. It must have been the talk of the village for weeks. Only a few months before, in April, the Employees of the Society, were on short time, due to the shortage of spending money, resulting from the coal miners strike.

The Butcher remained at 2, Dewhurst Terrace and the Greengrocers was begun at No.l. In the early 1920's, Tom Anderson was in charge of the two tables in the Billiard Room, later, in the early 1930's Gilly Cruddace took charge. Above No.2. Durham County Council rented the rooms, for use as a Library.

In 1933 Edith Campbell worked in the Drapery Department, her Manager was Albert Price. The Hardware and Shoe Department had a staff of two, and Margaret Young was an Assistant. Over the Christmas period, toys were sold.

Mr. R. Stonehouse was in charge of the Grocery Department, assisted by Frank Nichol and Cecil Kendal. Cecil went to Hookergate Grammar School at the same time as Edith Campbell. He later went on rounds in a store van, to Marley Hill, selling groceries and taking orders. Fred Armstrong and Janet Bell, worked in the Greengrocers. Tom Brabban and Mary Pattison also worked at the store. Edith moved to Burnopfield store in 1937. Around 1950, Mary McConnen came to work at Sunniside, shortly after, the Greengrocery moved into the main building and a Chemist Shop moved into No.l. Dewhurst Terrace, people still had to go to Whickham to get Doctor's prescriptions. Joe Croft was the store Butcher. The store's Abattoir, was behind Fell Terrace (owned by the Co-op), at the top of Crookbank, known locally as Shield's Abattoir.

About five worked in the Grocery, two in the Hardware, and two upstairs in the Drapery. Mary went round the houses taking orders and a man from Gateshead Co-op did the same. Members of Gateshead had a better choice of goods and a better dividend. There was a Door Club, in which Co-op members were given credit, based on the amount of dividend they had in their books and whether they were reliable payers. For doorstep milk delivery, the Co-op operated a milk token system, different colours for various types of milk. Due to falling trade the Co-op closed in 1987, the building was to see a few changes of ownership after that date.. On the night of 12th March 1992 a fire destroyed the building, a super-market was built in its place.

The National Spiritualists held meetings in the home of James Bell, at Cuthbert Street, Marley Hill, circa 1920. Meetings were then held at Wilson Bell's home at Sunniside House, Fell Close. In 1925, Harry Kindred built Elm Stret West houses and Joseph and Hannah Bell moved in to No.8. "Belmont". A Spiritualist Church made of a timber frame and corrugated sheeting, was built next to the house. In the 1930's regular meetings were held in the Church, known by some locals as the Spuggies Hall. Mrs.Mann, of High Row was a Medium. The building was licensed as a place of worship and could not be removed without proper authority. In the late 1960's the Church was subjected to damage by vandals and was eventually dismantled, sadly no photographs of the hall exist.

About 1976, Gateshead M.B. Council placed a Porta-Cabin on the site for use as a Library. This was removed in 1982 when a Mobile Trailer Library was introduced and this is parked next to "Sunhill", from Thursday to Saturday.

In the 1950's, Cuthy Bell and his wife Emma, lived at "Belmont". Cuthy was an Engine Winderman at Marley Hill Colliery and owned about a dozen houses at Sunniside and half a dozen at Belle Vue near Tanfield.

On July 25th 1934 Mr Joseph Casson of Glenrosa, Elm Street West died at his home after a heart attack at the age of 51. He was the. workmens representative for Marley Hill colliery on the Court of Referees at Gateshead and had the previous day attended a meeting of the Board of Assessors at Dunston Employment Exchange. He was for the past 16yrs check weigh man at Marley Hill and Secretary of the Miners Lodge for 18yrs. His other duties included being a County Magistrate (since 1931), Secretary for Marley Hill Labour Party, and a Labour member on Chester le Street Rural District Council. As a local Preacher he served on the Gateshead Methodist Circuit for 14yrs and was a much loved member of Sunniside Chapel.

Over the years front street Sunniside has witnessed many changes and this will no doubt continue, not always for the better.

In the 1940/50's a great source of entertainment was our local football matches played on the field off Sunniside front street (where Sun Hill residential flats now stand) and alternatively at Marley Hill football pitch. Of course the local lads supported their own team, 'Sunniside Imperials' pictured above.

Back Row Left to Right: Harry Heads, John Cooper, Harry Fothergill, Jack Henderson, Mervyn Nelson, Danny Tinnion, Freddy Sims, George (Geordie) Spraggon, Cliff Holt, John Berry, John Delap.

Front Row Left to Right: John Heads, Ken Williams, John Greener, unknown, Les Ging, Joe Porter, Bob Lumley, Mr Spraggon Snr.

Continue on down the Front Street past the shops and allotment gardens on the left. On the right stood our first village school, known as The White Elephant School.

A HISTORY OF THE WHITE ELEPHANT SCHOOL STREETGATE SUNNISIDE

Pictured above a class at the School in 1927, Florence Clark born 1st August 1919, the owner of the photograph is in the centre row, fifth from the left. (This is the oldest class photograph known).

The earliest recorded information regarding education in Sunniside, was on a leaflet advertising a private school held in the Methodist New Connexion Chapel in 1860 ( It was eventually known as the Over Sixties).

The story of Sunniside Infant School really begins in August 1907 when a Miss Jackson was appointed Head Mistress of an Infant Department within Marley Hill Colliery School. This School continued to function with the appointment of Miss Hannah Armstrong as Head Teacher on November 1st 1921, until 1923. Then, the number of children attending the School was so great, it was decided to open a Temporary Infant School in Sunniside. Thus it is recorded in Marley Hill Infant School log book:- " April 20th 1923, Hannah Armstrong, Head Teacher, Lesley Cuthbert C.A. and Ethel Smith P.T. finish duty to-day and will commence on the 23rd at Sunniside Temporary Council School. The Sunniside children have been transferred to the Temporary School, the other children remain here as an Infant Class of the Mixed Department."

And so it was that the School opened on April 23rd 1923 in the Sunniside Church Hall of St Cuthbert’s Church Marley Hill which was situated on Gateshead Road. This Hall which had been built in 1914, was a pebble dashed construction consisting of an shaped hall with a stage. It was rented to Durham Authority at a 'peppercorn' rent of 1/- per annum. A temporary action to fulfil a need - to last forty years.

From the beginning the heating of the School seems to have been a major problem, over the years extracts from Log Book showed a catalogue of problems. Some of the short comings were quite alarming, for example on December 10th 1924 at 10.20am the Boiler House was discovered to be on fire. the children were dismissed into the yard for play until the fire was extinguished and all was safe for them to return into School. Informed District Clerk that the heating apparatus is quite inadequate.

Even when the boiler fire is sufficient to make the flue pipe red hot and set fire to the roof of heating chamber, the temperature in School only reaches 50 degrees. On November 26th 1925 the temperature at 9.0am was just 36 degrees. The children came from warm homes and they soon felt the cold. Several of them cried as their feet were numb. At intervals marching had to be resorted to, the ordinary lessons were suspended.

On December 7th 1925 the temperature at 9.0am was just 34 degrees, the essential subjects were taken and the rest of the morning was spent in marching around and exercises to warm the children. Mrs Jobling from the farm opposite the school sent over a large milk-can full of cocoa, this was given to the children who were exceedingly cold by 10.30am.

The problems with the elements seem to have been a major problem for many years, particularly in 1945:

Jan. 26th 1945 School closed because of frozen lavatories.

Jan. 29th 1945 School re-opens.

Jan. 30th 1945 Severe snowstorm - attendance 24%

* The winter of 1945 was particularly severe.

Events seen as important were meticulously logged: January 1952 Wash basin installations.

April 1952 School yard relaid.

July 1952 Mend boiler-house chimney.

October 1952 Installation new stoves.

February 1954 Children not admitted till 9.15am on account of smoke in the School.

April 1954 Clerk of Works visit, re the installation of hot water.

November 1961 School closed because of smokey boiler.

February 1962 At 9 o'clock the School was filled with smoke fumes. The boiler registered 90 degrees and the temperature in the School was 34 degrees.

Feb. 26th 1962 School closed.

Feb. 27th 1962 Engineers came and heightened the boiler chimney.

April 5th 1962 Heating very poor, reported fuel boiler leaking inside.

Jan. 14th 1963 School supplied with two oil heaters as water system is out of commission.

A school class of the early 1950’s with Teacher Jean Dawson

STAFFING:- The School enjoyed a very stable staff, there being only three Head Teachers during its life-time. Miss Hannah Armstrong belonged to Blackhall Mill where she had a niece, but lodged with a Mrs Bell in Sun Street. She appears to have been a very good, thorough and well organised Teacher with the welfare of the School very much in her heart. Past pupils say she was a very dominant strict person who was also very kind. Mrs Rita Todd recalls how School started every morning with Assembly, and Miss Armstrong had handkerchief drill. Well, one morning Mrs Todd forgot her handkerchief and knew she would be punished if found out. She had a tissue wrapped around an orange so she held that up instead, and because she also hid at the back all was well. That is until her mother called into School later that morning with the clean handkerchief Rita had forgotten. Miss Armstrong must have had a great regard for everything being absolutely correct. Class registers were very important and were carefully examined by the Welfare Officer every month. Here is an incident recorded by her in the log book on February 1st 1926:-

On class Register 11, 9th week, space No.7, part of the upper paper has been removed through a piece of toffee becoming attached to the edge of the blotting paper. The register was closed and on opening it the toffee remained fixed and had to be removed with the aforesaid result.

Miss Armstrong was also involved with Sunniside Methodist Church, being in charge of a Women's Choir and attending conferences for the Women's Institute. On her retirement, 22nd October 1948, after being Head for 25 years she was presented with a wristlet watch from pupils past and present, associates and friends.

STAFFING Head Teacher 1923 April 23rd was Hannah Armstrong with Class Assistant Lesley Cuthbert and Pupil Teacher Ethel Smith. There were 62 pupils on the roll. In March 1941 Elizabeth Morgan joined the Staff as did Ethel Sample in October. In March 1942 Elizabeth Morgan left.

At that time there were 93 on roll with Staff members, Hannah Armstrong, Lesley Cuthbert and Ethel Sample. In July 1946 Ethel .Sample was transferred, and in September Jean Lamb was appointed.

In October 1948 Hannah Armstrong retired and Lesley Cuthbert was appointed Head Teacher. In June 1949 Jean Lamb and Mrs Binks were on Staff, then in September Mrs Binks transferred and Miss Jean Dawson was appointed. On 31st August1951 Lesley Cuthbert retired and in October Miss Mabel Davison was appointed Head Teacher. In 1955 there were 41 pupils on the roll. In April Jean Dawson left and Mrs Clare Doran was appointed. In December 1962 Mabel Davison left and in July Mrs Doran left. In January 1963 Mrs A. Grant was appointed Acting Head. By then there were just 13 pupils, there following two admissions in April, 15 pupils

The last entry in the log book was made on 30th April 1963 informed notice of School closure May 31st 1963.

A long serving member of Staff was Lesley Cuthbert, Miss Cuthbert lived at Lobley Hill. She joined the Staff of Marley Hill Infant School in 1911 as a newly qualified Class Assistant and was moved with Miss Armstrong to Sunniside in 1923. For many years she taught the younger children and past pupils say that she was a quiet reserved person with a much gentler nature than that of Miss Armstrong. She sometimes played the violin, for School assemblies. It is recorded in the Log Book that she fractured her wrist in 1947 and was out of School on numerous occasions having treatment at the hospital. Miss Cuthbert became Head in 1948 on the retirement of Miss Armstrong and retired herself in 1951 after 40yrs service teaching children of this area.

Miss Mabel Davison was the other Head who was appointed in 1951 on the retirement of Miss Cuthbert. She belonged to Dunston but eventually moved to live in a bungalow on Met al Bank Sunniside, before finally moving to another bungalow on Fellside Road, Whickham. She was also quiet and reserved but a very efficient Teacher. She played golf and was a member of Whickham Golf Club where she is remembered as a well-liked, popular, quiet person, who was an average player but thoroughly enjoyed her golf. Miss Davison left in December 1962 and Mrs A. Grant was acting Head until the School finally closed in 1963.

Mrs Binks who lived in retirement at Whickham after being Head of Fellside Infant School, has happy memories of her time spent in the White Elephant School. Mrs Doran retired from Byermoor School and moved in Grimsby.

This is an extract from a letter sent by Mrs Doran:-

" The School teaching areas were in an L shaped room. The reception and first infants class, accommodated in the larger area, consisted of approximately 30 children in 1955, dwindling to under 20 by 1958. Miss Davison, in the smaller area, taught approximately 25/30 older children whose ages at the time rose up to the end of their 9th year. This 9 year level was later reduced to a younger leaving age, when most children left to join Marley Hill School, though some opted to join the Whickham Parochial School. The latter choice was usually made by parents from Streetgate.

The divisions between the classes consisted of long, dark green, heavy curtains. All the chairs and tables for two children in rows had to be moved for indoor activity lessons, mainly in the younger class's area. The curtains were then drawn aside for our mostly combined drama, percussion band, music and movement and some P.E. sessions, for which Miss Davison and I provided the piano accompaniment. P.E. and games periods depending on the weather, took place outdoors on the concrete yard edged with Lime and Beech trees. A great source of irritation was caused when the Authorities changed the original, smooth surface of the yards surrounding the School on three sides, to one of gritted tarmac. A fall resulted in considerable pain and fear.

One cloakroom sufficed for all. The three toilets, minus urinals, were situated outdoor at the back of the School, and shared by staff and children. Visits were most unpleasant during inclement weather. Heating was provided by a coke stove in each classroom. These stoves had a large pipe extending through to the outside of the walls of the School and, therefore, were at the mercy of the prevailing winds. Either clouds of smoke belched into the room or the coke refused to burn effectively on the worst of days - usually winter time. Teaching could be interrupted by the need to stir the fire, rake the ashes, or add more coke. a small number of parents whose children suffered with chest ailments ( partly, or wholly, due to the coke fires ) removed their offspring to other Schools.

Cooked hot meals were delivered from a Whickham School Kitchen Centre by a Mr Les Harrison of Pennyfine Road. These were served by a Miss Bell ( voluntarily assisted by Miss Davison and me.) Served to all of the children, none returning home at lunch time. No " Dinner Ladies " were then employed so Teaching Staff were totally responsible for the children's welfare during the lunch break. It was a great day when a Miss Cree was appointed as School Crossing Patrol Officer. Our last Caretaker, a Mrs Harrison of Sunniside, was a hard working and cheerful person.

Despite all the difficulties and drawbacks, the School had a cosy, intimate and family atmosphere of its own. Miss Davison was a strict but kind Headmistress, who did her utmost to ensure that all her pupils left her care well prepared for the next stage of their School life. I believe I am correct in saying that most of the children will think of their years at " The White Elephant " with affection and appreciation - as I do myself - years of happy recollections ".

There were of course Non - Teaching Staff., the Caretaker and Meals Attendants. On 18TH April 1923 Edward Dodsworth was Caretaker at a salary of £112.10s.0d. per ann.+ £2.12s.6d.) In 1929 Mr Dodsworth left. And in 1930 on the 1st November Mrs Charlotte Brabham (known locally as ‘Lotty’) took over at the salary of £42.2s.11d. per ann. + £2.12s.6d.). In October 1943 Mrs Jane Elliott dished out milk and meals. In September 1944 Mrs Brabham gave left and in November Mrs Jane Elliott was appointed. In 1946 three were appointed at the Dining Centre, Mrs Louie Weightman, Mrs Gladys Bell., Miss Nora Pattison. In February 1954 Miss Gladys Bell retired, In April Mrs L. Weightman retired. In January 1958 Mrs J.Elliott left and Miss Bell was employed as a Temp. In March Mrs Jean Shepherd was appointed and Mr Thompson, to look after the boiler. In 1961 Mrs Freda Harrison and Mrs Legg were appointed.

A class originally thought to be c1956 with Head Teacher Mabel Davison (1951 – 1962) on the left and Clare Doran (1955 – 1962) on the right.

However, I received this e-mail on 26th July 2009 and thought it worthy of inclusion:

Hi, just a note about the photo of the White Elephant School circa 1956. It must be later than 1956. My name is Philippa Clark. I am seated fourth from the left in the second row. I was born in 1953 so the photograph must be dated at least 1958.

I remember the teachers very clearly - even Miss Davison's car number plate! XBB 626..... Unfortunately not so my fellow pupils.

I think the boy on the left at the front was called Kenneth. The only one I am certain of is Malcolm Barras seated sixth from the left on the front row.

I think the girl who is second from the left on the second row may have been called Clare. The girl fifth from the left could be be Valerie Muir but I am not definite. The girl who is seventh from the left on the second row is Anne Oliver.

Hope this is of some use/interest.

Philippa Clark

A further e-mail from former pupil Ian Stoneman of Sunniside bears out the claim that the photograph is later than 1956, probably c1960-61.

________________________________

H.M.I. Reports.

The following are extracts from the H.M.I. Reports given to the School during its lifetime.

1924: Report by H.M.I. Mr Steele - 2nd May 1924 This temporary School was opened on April 23rd 1923 to relieve the pressure on the accommodation of the neighbouring School. At the opening, 62 children up to 9 years old were admitted; a large percentage of these had not been in School before. Those who had been, had begun their School life at a later age than usual. None of them had had a normal course. Of the 66 now in School, 37 suffered from a delayed admission. It is therefore evident that the Teachers had an uphill task.

1936: H.M.I. Report - Mr Edwards - 7th April 1936. This School is still housed in the Parish Hall. The nature of the premises is such that the 74 children, whose ages range from 5 to 9+ are taught in two classes, in one and the same room. The Hall is also used for parochial activities and much of the floor space is requisitioned as a storage space for material which is unconnected with the School. It is therefore impossible to make the room look attractive. There is no form of partition between the two classes and consequently the children are frequently distracted during the course of lessons. The Headmistress and her Assistant are doing their best under these most trying circumstances and they are to be congratulated on the success of their efforts. They have endeavoured to bring their teaching methods up to date and generally speaking a satisfactory level is reached in most subjects.

1955: H.M.I, Mr Harold - 10th October 1955 ( 41 0n roll ) This School was opened as a temporary establishment in 1923. Since that time it has continued to function in the same building, namely the Sunniside Parish Hall. Recently various alterations have rendered the premises more suitable for School purposes.

These have included:

The paving of the playground, the re-painting of the interior of the building in light colours, the installation of extra heating apparatus, the partitioning of an alcove to form a staff room and the removal of material unconnected with the School which has been given better facilities for the storage of equipment. The teaching spaces in the hall are separated by a curtain. There is a scullery for use in connection with the School meals, which are prepared at a central kitchen (Burnopfield) and served in the hall to about 12 children each day. Cloakroom and sanitary provision are adequate in amount, but there is no constant supply of hot water to any of the pupils wash basins. This is a very pleasant School in which the children rapidly acquire confidence and a keen interest in their work.

Epidemics:

Several epidemics, sometimes causing School closure are mentioned. For example on October 1st 1923 the School closed owing to a whooping cough epidemic. On November 5th 1923 the School re-opened. There were further problems in July 12th 1926, 9 pupils developed whooping cough, 7 mumps, and 4 chickenpox. The School closed for two weeks. There were further closures in 1932 because of Whooping cough, in 1942 an epidemic of measles and mumps and in February 1956 Dysentery.

Accidents

Several accidents are recorded including these three :- Jan. 23rd 1938 At 3.40pm today Wilfred Craig was accidently knocked down by a car. Nov. 18th 1941. Joseph Norwood fell on a load of coke and bruised his nose. Mar. 17th 1950 Dennis James Wallace fatally injured by a motor lorry on his way home.

Parental Involvement

Several open days and Concerts are recorded. Here are some of them :-

Mar. 26th 1924 This is our open day and in preparation for the parents visit the ordinary lessons ceased at 11.00am. and the musical part of the programme was taken.

Dec. 17th/18th 1926 Evening Concerts were held.

Dec. 22nd 1926 Open day. Majority of mothers visited the School today and were greatly interested.

July 23rd 1928 School closed to visit Whitley Bay. (this appears to have been a yearly event).

June 22nd 1931 Instead of holding our usual Open Day we are giving a display for two evenings so that both parents and friends may have an opportunity of seeing the children take part in a programme consisting of songs, recitation, dances, and simple plays. Proceeds for the Whickham Cottage Hospital.

May 24th 1933 Empire Day. Afternoon session. Instead of the usual lessons, talks were given on the Union Jack and countries of the Empire. The children were grouped to represent the various countries and an appropriate programme of songs, dances and games were given.

Nov. 3rd 1933 Jumble Sale realised £13.10s.0d. a gramophone costing £9.9s.0d. was purchased. The rest of the money spent on records.

July 5th 1934 An outdoor display of Folk Dancing was given by the children of the School to members of the Womens Institute on Wednesday evening,

July 4th A large number of parents were also present.

Nov. 22nd 1935 Jumble Sale to provide the necessary apparatus for a Percussion Band.

Dec. 18th 1935 Open Day. Percussion Band gave two items.

W.A.A.F. Florence Clark 22nd May 1942, during the Second World War, (Florence is pictured as a member of the school class on the first photograph of this school history.

War Time

In September 1938 the School was inspected with a view to using it as First - Aid Station in the event of war. The School was used to distribute gas masks. On the 30th September 1938 the children were fitted for gas masks. On the 4th September 1939 a State of Emergency was declared. School closed.

The School was closed during September - October. It is recorded that during the period of closure, staff attended School each day and prepared apparatus ( drawing, handwork, needlework ), cleaned cupboards and repaired reading books. Forms regarding the teaching of small groups, in Schools, have been distributed for parents' signature. If they agree and accept all responsibility for the safety of their own children while attending School, these groups will be formed.

Oct. 24th 1939 Two groups of Children have been formed. The 5 - 7 years attend in the morning. The afternoon session caters for the 7 - 9 years group.

Jan. 3rd 1940 School re-opened for full time instruction.

Apr. 10th 1940 Air-raid shelters ready for use.

Aug. 30th 1940 Several air-raids have taken place during the week and the attendance has suffered, but not sufficiently to warrant abandoning attendances.

Sept.16th 1940 ( 1st report ). An air-raid warning was sounded and children and Teachers went to the shelters.

May 12th 1941 Last night's raids heaviest yet. There are several mentions of time spent in the air-raid shelters:-

1.25pm. - 2.30pm. (1 day): 8.45 - 9.40am., 2.30 - 2.55pm., 10.45 - 11.15am., 3.20 - 10pm. another day.

October 1941 Timetable re-arranged so that work may be carried on while joiners are putting up fittings for black-out.

December 1941 Registers closed 10.0am. as we had raid until 1.0pm.

Apr. 9th 1943 Wings for Victory Week (savings) £350.0s.0d.

July 24th 1944 Salute Soldier Week (savings) £662.3s.6d.

Aug. 22nd 1944 Five evacuees from London area admitted.

May. 8th 1945 Attendances cancelled for V.E. Day holiday.

Punishment Book

The Punishment Book, which is held in Blandford Street, makes very interesting reading. Children's misdemeanours haven’t changed very much over the decades - only the punishment. There are 225 (approx.) punishments recorded, usually one stroke, or two strokes, or seat smacked with cane.

Shared premises:

This building, being a Church Hall, was used for various activities in the evening and there were problems with it being shared premises. Several incidents are recorded e.g. :-

15th Feb. 1933 - C.L.B. The boys have broken off a leg of the piano and smashed glass in the Timetable. Reported to District Clerk. 1939 -1939.

1939 - Music rest broke on piano.

November 1955 - Damage caused by Youth Club. sing and damaging School apparatus. Rubbed prepared work off blackboard. Used new blackboard for dartboard. Climbed over wall into private room.

March 7th 1962 - Meeting Mr Wright, Rev. G. Scott, Mrs Harrison and Head Teacher to sort out difficulties of Sunday School meeting.

School Closure

Unfortunately the only known photographs of the school are these taken during the fire and the ruins afterward.

Everyone was aware of the difficulties of running this School and so it is recorded:-

January 1950 - The Director with a deputation of the County Education Committee, the Divisional Education Officer and School Managers met here to consider condition of premises.

Nov 21st. 1960 - Members of Education Committee visited School re possible new School in the vicinity.

Apr 30th. 1963 - Informed of notice of School closure.

May 4th. 1962 - Managers met Mr Elliott (Director of Education) who made statement about closure of School.

May 5th. 1963 - Official notice.

June 7th. 1963 - School finally closed to-day. A. Grant, Acting Head. (15 pupils on roll).

The Aftermath

What happened to the building afterwards? For a while it stood idle and then it was sold by the Church on the 25th November 1965 to the Dumighan Brothers. They tried to develop it and were refused planning permission. It was then sold to Mr McLennan, a heating engineer who used it as a depot/warehouse. It was burnt to the ground in a spectacular fire on March 7th. 1975. Eventually Mr H. Brown bought the site and built a bungalow " High Trees " in 1984. He told me that when working on the site they discovered little plots about 3ft. square marked out with kerb stones. He thinks these must have been individual garden plots which were tended by children in the School.

Opinion

During my research I have formed the opinion that this small School was providing a good solid education for its pupils. The teachers were obviously strict but kind and caring and very successful in implementing a broad and balanced curriculum in spite of the many real difficulties. Past pupils all speak with affection about their time spent at the " White Elephant " School. Why the " White Elephant " I haven't been able to find out. Maybe because so many varied activities took place there, one of them being a temporary School.

Written By : Mrs Joan Telford Sunniside & District Local History Society.

If you can add anything to this history, or if you possess any photographs connected to the School we would be happy to hear from you. Please contact us at our E. Mail address

We are grateful to JUNE GREENHILL of Sunniside who has provided us with her class photograph of 1928. Remarkably, June has been able to recall the name of every child in her class.

We received the above photograph from Patricia Vella asking for our assistance in tracing her family. We did so and received a letter from Trish:

"I am delighted that I made the effort to contact you and with your kind help have been able to achieve what I set out to do.

The school photo you are welcome to keep. The only thing I would ask is if you decide to put it on the website you could perhaps make an acknowledgment to the Elliott family in particular, my Uncle ,Thomas Brooks Elliott.

Many thanks once again kind regards Trish Vella