Guestbook


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Guestbook 2007
The main purpose of this Guestbook is to allow Seaham Harbour folk around the world to keep in touch, to find each other, to explore their roots and to share cherished recollections. Seaham Harbour Online will not knowingly carry on its web pages any material which we consider to be politically or socially offensiveor of a xenophobic, fascist or paediaphiliac nature. Personal attacks which may be considered to be potentially libellous are not allowed.If you have a criticism it should be supported by facts and is only valid if you identify yourself and your real email address. This is no different from what local or national newspapers would expect. We receive lots of requests to advertise other sites on the Guestbook. Our policy is not to allow advertisements here.

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For Mike Smith in France. My husband used to live in ennerdale close, his sister lives in melrose her husband is Leo Groark, used to work at the Vane Tempest. I can remember your dad dancing with my sister in laws at one of the clubs. Hope you had a good christmas and wish you all the best for the new year
maureen rafferty
farnborough, Hants. UK - Sunday, December 30, 2007 at 15:00:06 (PST)

We hope everyone had a happy and paeceful Christmas and we wish you all a happy and healthy New Year.
Ed & Sadie Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Sunday, December 30, 2007 at 14:50:36 (PST)

Jupiter Thanks to all those who told me how to make peas pudding. I will have another go and this time soak them in HOT water. Lorna Stokes, my husband can remember willies farm, we also have relatives in Murton. My husband is from Seaham. A very happy new year to all our family and everybody in good old seaham. Hope to be up again next year.
maureen rafferty
farnborough, Hampshire UK - Sunday, December 30, 2007 at 14:48:16 (PST)

To Phil Heaton. I have Arthur Pines email address if you want it please send your email address.
Ed Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham - Sunday, December 30, 2007 at 14:45:26 (PST)

Hiya Janet Rowe, I left my e-mail last year so here it is again. I have a TV licence now! So you can safely send me an invite! FROM ED: Janet let me have your email address and I'll forward Ray's to you.
Ray Leighton
Durham, - Sunday, December 30, 2007 at 14:43:39 (PST)

For Pauline, Sorry I've mislaid your e mail address. Would love to meet up in the new year. I apologise for not being in touch sooner but Eddie has had a spell in hospital so it has been a bit hectic. Everything is fine now and would love to chat about old times.
Sadie M
- Sunday, December 30, 2007 at 14:30:43 (PST)

fao. do ron don masters sorry to hear about your probs, i understand , we have been there where were you, i waited under the clock at the station for our BRIEF ENCOUNTER !!!! just got back home for new years eve, wishing you a healthy new year , catch you on the next trip over the border , fight the good fight
lorna stokes
- Sunday, December 30, 2007 at 14:27:47 (PST)

fao. judy c glad you had a look at murton on your trip, is the empire still there !!! have you a brother as well? trying to remember people in dene terr. can you remember little titch i have pictures in my mind put can,t put names to them , i am trying to get there for a visit soon , after the weather has settled hope you had a great xmas with your family and wish you a healthy new year £orna !!!
lorna stokes
scarborough, - Sunday, December 30, 2007 at 14:27:00 (PST)

Seaham Town Council seem a very go ahead organisation (at least on the website) I have been keeping a beady eye on them for some time, They are,it seems very good. I like the new cemetary at Byrons walk done in 2005.It reminded me of the fact that the last time I visited Princess Road Cem. was many years ago for the funeral of a kid who drowned in the clay pit.
Brian Greenfingers
- Sunday, December 30, 2007 at 14:25:50 (PST)

Hi there all and congratulations for a great WEBSITE...I look in from time to time.. Although I must admit I belonged originally to Monkwearmoth and moved to Townendfarm Sunderland when they started pulling MWM down... I now live in Durham but I still have great memories of my youth there.. This site reminds me of the community MWM was when I was young!! Does anyone here know of a simlar site for Monkwearmouth... the ones I have tried were all of Sunderland and mostly occupied by "idiots online".. By the way My Brother-in-Laws's family came from Seaham name of Huntrods.... his dad & brother both won medals for bravery during WW2 The George Medal for the one in the Army and the naval equivilent for the other brother in the navy...(don't know what that was) They were given to them by the then King George... Has anyone got any info on these two?? I believe they were the only 2 brothers decorated together during the war..as I am researching the family tree an! d it seems a piece of relevant near history...... Also my wife was the Deputy at Seaham Family Group Home for a number of years...anyone remember that??? Take care & keep up the chat..Jack
Jack Lawson
Durham, - Sunday, December 30, 2007 at 14:25:00 (PST)

I find myself finally at hyem it seems. My great great great gramma was Maggie Campbell of 68 Marlborough street back in 1891 ( I am sure some of you remember her ) and her daughter Mary , married John W Wilkinson also of Easington in the nineties. Is there any family remnant still about ? Does the street still exist? I understand Maggie has passed and was planted locally. Thanks. Len Smith
Len
Broon Deeah, Wisconsin - Sunday, December 30, 2007 at 14:23:04 (PST)

To Stephen Ward. In Seaham Harbour Events you wrote about a book in progress on Seaham 1880 Disaster. I would be interested to hear more from you on this topic. I am engaged in a similar task writing about a fictional family in the mining town of Dalton (Seaham) circa 1920/30. Good luck in your endeavours. Brian Rowell
Brian Rowell
- Sunday, December 30, 2007 at 14:21:14 (PST)

Hiya Janet Rowe, I left my e-mail last year so here it is again. I have a TV licence now! So you can safely send me an invite! [ED: no email addresses posted - sorry]
Ray Leighton
Durham, UK - Monday, December 24, 2007 at 15:24:25 (PST)

Hi, thanks for the email but it is not complete. Is it co.uk or .com? cheers vin. ED: Sorry Vin that's how Dougie sent it to me. Why not try both and see if you get a reply? Or maybe Dougie will see this entry.
Vin Maratty
UK - Monday, December 24, 2007 at 15:22:02 (PST)

Hi Phil Heaton, Arty Pine is my cousin and he has moved back to Seaham - I will get my auntie to ask him to write on the guest book to you.
Janet
St Sampsons, - Monday, December 24, 2007 at 15:16:21 (PST)

Message for Lucy Chambers Hi Lucy, Spud is living in Nottingham, so Ian tells me. They are both so happy to be back in contact again after all these years. I will ask Ian about John Casey and let you know. Its Xmas Eve here in Oz and Im feeling very Homesick (even after 35 years)One wonderful memory I have is of my Dad and I walking up the laneway that went up the side of St Johns Church from Blandford St.We were carrying Xmas presents and singing "In The Deep Mid Winter". I still have a few tears when I hear that carol.Have a wonderful Xmas Lucy and to All In Seaham, God Bless, Stay Well and Best Wishes to you All. From Ann
Ann Pike
banora point, - Monday, December 24, 2007 at 15:15:22 (PST)

Hello Harbourites. I'm trying to contact Arty Pine....I hear he's still in town. Phil Heaton
Phil Heaton
- Friday, December 21, 2007 at 16:17:31 (PST)

If I remember rightly, my mother made Peace Pudding with lentils. She would soak them overnight, tie them in a muslin cloth, and boil them with the ham shank. As the ham and lentils were simmering she would lift the scum off the top of the water with a large spoon, and top the pan up with boiling water. The salt and natural stock in the ham water was enough to flavour the pudding. If the pudding was a bit stiff (after being transferred to a boil), she would simply add a bit of the water the ham had been cooked in.
Tom Moreland
London, - Friday, December 21, 2007 at 16:16:31 (PST)

Recipe for Pease Pudding: lb (454gm) Green and Yellow Split Peas 1 Large Onion, chopped 1 Rasher Bacon, chopped 2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce 1 tbsp Butter Salt and Pepper, to taste Method:_Soak the peas overnight, then drain well. Place the peas in a saucepan and adding the onion, bacon and seasoning. Add water enough to reach ½in (12mm) above the peas. Bring slowly to the boil and simmer for 2 to 2½ hours, stirring occasionally. Just before serving add the butter and Worcestershire the sauce. Pease Pudding should have a puree consistency and if too loose raise the heat to reduce the moisture
Lucy Taylor
- Friday, December 21, 2007 at 16:15:17 (PST)

re jack foggin he lived a couple of doors away for us in chaplin street and you hear him practising he had quite a voice that took place in late 50s cheers harry
harry hunter
redcar, - Friday, December 21, 2007 at 16:14:29 (PST)

Thank goodness Sadie M. that brother Norman is still skipping the light fantastic around Seaham (at his age!) and more power to his elbow I say. So many of my old friands and acquaintances are gone. When I visited Beamish Museum not long ago, I could not bring myself to go down their preserved coalmine. I got a feeling of claustrophobia at the thought. I followed my Father's footsteps into mining (He worked at the NAK) and later wished I had'nt!
Brian Greenfingers
- Friday, December 21, 2007 at 16:13:31 (PST)

hello vin brighton v sunderland next season. have a great xmas not to much pudd,love to all the family bro mick
mick
sussex, - Friday, December 21, 2007 at 16:12:24 (PST)

Ann that is good news about having got Ian and Ron (Spud)back in touch with each other. I remember Spud and his family well, another friend of Ian's I was wondering about the other day as I have not seen him around for quite some time now, not that I saw him much but about 13 years ago when I met up with him he told me that he was in touch with Ian ,his name John Casey, does Ian know anything of him these days. Lucy
Lucy Taylor
Seaham, - Friday, December 21, 2007 at 16:11:31 (PST)

Chris, I never heard Dickie Marrin sing, can you give me a bit of background on him please ?
Raymond Thompson
Seaham, - Friday, December 21, 2007 at 16:10:07 (PST)

I would like to wishe everyone a very Happy Christmas and all the best for the New Year. x
Helen
Seaham, - Friday, December 21, 2007 at 16:09:08 (PST)

LORNA.been out of sorts ,probs stopped me typing..another bone scan on 26/11,no recall so no news is good news.have bribed border guards again so no probs for your visit.& no kidding,, a time for a meet at the clock & i,ll be there, best wishes for you & yours for 2008.& enjoy your xmas with family,RON M FAO, ED&SADIE best wishes to you & yours for 2008, this service you provide is much appreciated,, thankyou,,,,RON MASTERS
r masters
- Friday, December 21, 2007 at 16:08:18 (PST)

. Maureen Raffety, pease pudding used to be a main meal in Seaham (look in Seaham library) in the cook book section you are shure to find it. It was a favorate at Funerals with ham. They even made up a little ditty...Pease Pudding Hot, Pease Pudding Cold, Pease Pudding In The Pot, Nine Days Old. By the way Maureen, a firm called Foresite sell tinned Pease Pudding, I buy It myself.
Brian Greenfingers
- Friday, December 21, 2007 at 16:07:13 (PST)

Thankyou Lucy for telling me about Joe, like I said, nearley every time I enquire about someone I knew years ago, they seem to have shuffled off this mortal plain. I did have big trouble myself reacently with cancer, after eighteen monthes of misery and chemo and radio theripy. They told me the cancer had gone. Well, I went mad and booked four short holidays for me and my Partner. Yes, life is sweet and not so appreciated untill I'ts threatened. Cheers Lucy.
Brian Greenfingers
- Friday, December 21, 2007 at 16:06:17 (PST)

fao. maureen rafferty, pease pudding my way is boil a bacon joint or ham keep the liquer, steel yellow slit peas in boiling water night before, can use a bicarb tablet from dried peas , only one , rinse off next day , they used to be pea bags in the peas but i use a piece of muslin, which i keep, put the split peas in the muslin and tie it up boil the liquer up and put it in to cook also a few spuds when done ,got to be soft, open the muslin and put cooked split peas in a basin with the spuds and mash it all up ,butter pepper , slice you boiled bacon, and serve it hot any left you can have cold in a sarny , its my memory of home , pot pies ,broth leek pudding, corned beef pasty yummy taught my daughter all my grandmothers recipes, , now she is doing them, my grandmother cooked at willies farm in murton as a young girl .Happy eating , and a healthy new year
Lorna Stokes
scarborough, North Yorks - Friday, December 21, 2007 at 16:05:05 (PST)

To - Richard Witton Many of the events you have related have passed me by. My last brief knowledge of Seaham was in the early nineties when I was chauffeur driven by my brother-in-law, Alan Claxton, from Keswick. We spent no more than 2/3 hours there and that, from my point of view, was very disappointing. Though my parents continued living in Seaham until their deaths, I moved around a little...from Africa to Australia. My sister's name is Olga. Good to hear from you and yes, I do remember, your father followed Tom Nicholson as Harbour Master. Tom had other daughters, Winifred and Mollie. The latter married Alan Stockdale who became Town Clerk of Shepton Mallet. Cheers
Brian Rowell
Brisbane, Queensland - Friday, December 21, 2007 at 16:02:51 (PST)

Hi Lorna Yes Nancy is the oldest. I stood under the store clock and the co op is still there.I went into the new Dalden shopping centre into Marks and Spencer's I was talking to one of the girls working there she turned out to be Rose Potts's daughter.Three weeks went so fast. We have had 30cms of snow today anybody want it !!!!!! Merry Christmas to all GB readers.
Judy C
Alliston, , Ontario - Friday, December 21, 2007 at 16:00:54 (PST)

football match played on the dawdon cw pitch between camden square and seaham st josephs 1958 or 9. cam won 3.2 jackie price scored winner. does anyone remember any of the other players. or if any still around.
Popeye
Yorks, UK - Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:48:36 (PST)

Dougie: is it ok if I give your email address to vin maratty?
Ed Mason - Seaham Harbour Online
UK - Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:42:31 (PST)

Aul Seaham- Jubilee Grounds. Doris Ferguson has many memories of this area. Her grandmother did the catering, for events, to earn extra money. She had a family of 8 to bring up after she was widowed when she was in her early 30s. The Jubilee Grounds are in Dawdon Dene and Dalden Towers was on the right. There were 4 houses there for the grooms. Just behind on the left hand side there was a gate through to the waste ground, over a stream and up the bank with a field at the top. This is now Daphne Crescent. The field was let to people who brought children there for outings, charabangs from the poor areas of Sunderland, Sunday Schools, sports days etc. Her grandmother had trestle tables and used the old stables if the weather was bad. The tablecloths that she used are still used by Doris in the Church. Doris remembers sitting on forms/benches watching her mother and grandmother getting everything ready. Mrs Islip remembers there were a few swings ther! e and Mrs Kilbey and Mrs Musley remember the 'tea hut' where on Sunday School treats, each child recieved a bag of cakes etc, made up at Murleys Bakery. Mr Mussen recalls that a girl was murdered there !! E Leighton
Eric Leighton
- Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:39:23 (PST)

I beg to differ from Raymond Thompson re finest tenors,the best tenor from Seaham was Dickie Marrin.
chris
seaham, - Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:38:07 (PST)

"SeahamLad" (John) I hope you are well and that you have a Merry Christmas.
Your friend
USA, - Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:37:31 (PST)

To Mick from Sussex, I hope you and your family have a good Xmas. I bet you wish you had Roy Keane at Brighton Bro!
vin marratty
sunderland, - Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:36:45 (PST)

To Brian Rowell, you're right, although my dad was Harbourmaster. He died in 1957 when I was 5yo, mam passed away in 1991
Richard Witton
Falkirk, - Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:36:08 (PST)

I have a Seaham Colliery Tag. Can anyone tell me, does the number / letter etched on the front have specific significance? Realname: paul
paul
- Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:35:16 (PST)

Massage for Lucy Chambers. Thank you for your help in naming the pub. A friend called Cedric Huitson lived there many years ago and from there I think the might have gone to the Castlreagh pub. Last I heard they had moved again to maybe the Easington area. My Mum was always trying to "Match Make " the two of us.Best Wishes Lucy to you and your family for the Festive Season.Love from Ann xx
Ann Hansen nee Pike
- Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:34:41 (PST)

Message for Lucy Chambers Merry Xmas and a Happy Safe and Healthy New Year to You and Yours.I have managed to find Spud Murphy who was Ians best friend.They are back in touch again after 50 years. Spud remembered you and sends his regards. Love Ann
Ann Hanson nee Pike
- Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:33:36 (PST)

ron masters , how are you not seen you on the guest book for a while, on my way to stevenage dec. 22nd i will see you under the town hall clock wishing you a happy xmas and a healthy new year
lorna stokes
- Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:32:44 (PST)

Can someone please tell me how to make peas pudding. I steap them overnight(yellow split peas) then rinse them and put them on to boil and them simmer. My sister in law who lives in Seaham has also tried but to no avail. I have also done it in the oven, but nothing. Is their any special split peas that should be bought, or just yellow split peas. I love it in a sandwich with ham. Can anybody up there help me. Thank you Maureen
maureen rafferty
- Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:31:49 (PST)

Hi Ed, I just wanted to say a BIG THANK YOU for having this web site, I have made contact with family that I didnt know existed,without this web site i would never have known. I am looking forward to my next visit to Seaham, hopefully in the new year! Kind regards. Wendy
Wendy Fitz-Gerald
Redhill, - Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:30:39 (PST)

fao. judy c what did you mean about murton? ? thought you might have called in to see me and i had forgotten about your nancy ,is she the oldest judy , i think she was in my class or my cousin audrey hunter Did you look at the dene and where dene terrace once stood , is the co. op still standing , i am dying to know how you got on pity i was in spain until the 24th.i am off to buckinghamshire for xmas and wish you and everyone a merry xmas and a healthy new year
lorna stokes
- Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:29:15 (PST)

I would like towish everyone that visits this Guest Book a Very Merry Christmas and A Happy New year. Stay safe and be happy wherever you may be in this world. I would also like to give a big THANK YOU to the administrators of the site for all their work in keeping such a good and friendly Site going. THANK YOU
Lucy Taylor
- Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:28:16 (PST)

hello seaham, merry xmas.
next pistols
seaham, - Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:27:33 (PST)

"Seahamlad" this is "your friend" - How are you these days? You have taken a break from this G/B as much as I have. I hope you are well and "all is good" for you. Make sure you read your Christmas card... it was sent to your family last week. Blessings!
Your Friend
USA, - Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:26:44 (PST)

Sorry Brian Greenfingers to have to tell you that my brother Joe also passed away 5 years ago. He had been happily married for forty years and had a son and daughter.He was a Grand Man
Lucy Taylor
Seaham, - Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 15:24:47 (PST)

Hello Maureen. Sorry for the slow reply been v busy recently. Yes that sounds like my old man. Peter Brannigan used to describe him as the 'epitome of sartorial elegance', and with reason. He was always smartly turned out. He'd never leave the pit unwashed and always came home in a trilby. Married Tess Lennox who died on their honeymoon in Sunderland. Later remarried my mother Eva who was from Germany. Yes I was brought up in Seaham, initially down on Tyne St and later in Eastlea Crescent. How about you? I drifted off at sixteen. As Andy Warhol says "There's only one good thing about a small town - you hate it and you have to leave." Ed Mason. I have a photo' of a team I believe to be Seaham Wednesday in the ? early fifties. Cup winners, photograped with the trophy and including my old man Gerry Smith and his brother Leo. Is this the same Seaham Wednesday that you're researching? NOTE: Yes Mick it sounds like it. Would it be possible to send the photo by email. ED MASON
mick smith
France - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at 14:23:48 (PST)

Message for Ed Mason - thanks for offering to send my email to Wendy Fitzgerald - Wendy has been in touch with my Mother via a cousin and left her email for me - we have since been in touch and chatted - its so nice to to make contact with long lost family - thanks to the Seaham Harbour Guest Book.
Dorothy Hawkins
Harrogate, North Yorks. UK - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at 14:20:27 (PST)

For Judy C. I had no idea you were Nancys sister. It's a small world isn't it.
Sadie M
Seaham, - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at 14:16:19 (PST)

Two of the finest tenors Seaham produced, were Jack Foggin and Jack Wick, both long gone. It would be interesting to hear from anyone who had the pleasure of hearing their voices all those years ago.
Raymond Thompson
Seaham, - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at 14:14:27 (PST)

To Richard Witton of Falkirk Yes, Bert and Hilda were my parents and now both are dead. I don't know what age/generation you come from but I guess your mother was Jessie nee Nicholson and your father Eddie was a pilot and coxswain of Seaham Lifeboat. They lived in the pilot cottages opposite the Coastguard Station...near 'Bessie's Hole' -:) Look forward to your acknowledgement.
Brian Rowell
Brisbane, - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at 14:13:12 (PST)

Thank you Seaham. I have just got home to Canada after three wonderful weeks in Seaham. I am very impressed with all the improvements and was at the opening of Byron Place. Most of all the greeting from all the Seaham folk was great I met a lot of old friends Whatever happened to Murton??? I thought that I had stepped back sixty years in time the only thing I can say is that the old busy Woods Terrace shocked me someone could shoot a cannon down there and not hit anybody. Again thank you all for the wonderful time I had. Oh Sadie did you know that Nancy Dondaldson is my sister?
Judy C
Alliston, - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at 14:11:48 (PST)

For Ann Hansen, All the Best for 2007 and have a very good Christmas send regards and best wishes to your brother Ian and his family please.
Lucy Taylor
- Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at 14:09:35 (PST)

Hi! Is there anyone in Seaham or Ferryhill can help me with my family tree. I am trying to find my grandparents. My parents are both dead now, and the only information I have, is that my father's dad was a man called ? Dodds, and his mother was Charlotte (lotty) Berry. Both were in the Salvation Army around 1920/1922. Lotty moved to Ryhope after having my father and married James Garroway. Thankyou in anticipation.
maureen guy
sunderland, - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at 14:07:32 (PST)

That would be the Northumberland Arms Anne
Lucy Taylor
Seaham, - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at 14:06:07 (PST)

Message for Bobby Smith - hi Bobby, no I'm not the Dorothy Reay from The Avenue at Deneside, the age you gave too is nearer to my Mum's age group, have asked her if she knew of another Dorothy Reay in Deneside, she remembers everything from the past usually, and she could'nt remember another Dorothy with the surname of Reay in the family. Sorry couldn't be of more help. Dorothy
Dorothy Hawkins
Harrogate, - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at 14:05:23 (PST)

I am trying to trace my grandparents on my fathers side. The only information I have from my now deceased parents, is that my dads dad was ? Dodds he was in the Salvation Army in Seaham or Ryhope in about 1920/1922. He sired my dad to a lady called Charlotte Berry,of Seaham, later Garroway of Ryhope, who was also in the Salvation Army in 1920/22. Can anyone help with any information to get me started on my tree?
mosh berry
Sunderland, - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at 14:04:13 (PST)

Lucy Taylor, we are on the right track.Your Joe is the one I knew in the fifties. The trouble is,in trying to enquire about 'old friends' it's been just my luck to be told the old mate or mates are no longer with us. I had this with Alan and Matty Cogden who I went to school with. Anyway Lucy, what is Joe doing now?
brian Greenfingers
- Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at 14:02:30 (PST)

My grandfather, Bob Greener, had a sweet shop and snooker hall in Church Street and as a child I remember everyone calling in for their ket before going to the cinema round the corner (The Gaff!) My mum Olive,who was a good player, once played the great Joe Davis in the snooker hall. If anyone remembers the group "The Cossacks" from the 60s which included myself, Brian Watts, Geoff Hudson and Jimmy Dixon Dawson please let me know. And if any of the band read this I'd love to hear from you.
John Warburton
Leyburn, North Yorks - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at 14:01:31 (PST)

- Hello Dorothy Hawkins! Wendy Fitzgerald here, and I have just returned (today) from my very emotional trip to Seaham and by chance I met Tom Gilmore after visiting my mothers old house in Dukes Street where a very friendly and welcoming couple invited us in. It was by chance that Rob had previously worked with Tom and knew him very well, which lead to taking us to his house and introducing us to him! I asked Tom about Doris and Jim Chapman but he didn't know them, I also asked about an 'Olive'. Tom only knew of an Olive Tarrant, is this your mother? I remember my mum enjoying spending time with an Olive over numerous cups of tea & cigarettes and if you could find out any other details I would be so grateful! If Ed could kindly forward each of us the other's email address, I would be so happy to have contact with you because I know so little about my mum's past and there is so much I'd like to know, it would mean so much! I look forward to hearing from you. Wendy. NOTE:Dorothy, Please send me your email address and I will pass it on (if you wish). Ed Mason
Wendy Fitz-Gerald
Redhill, Surrey UK - Thursday, November 29, 2007 at 15:07:24 (PST)

Can anyone remember the name of the pub that stood just along from the Post office, The street could have been called Adelaide Row.A friend of mine from years ago lived in the pub with his parents and family. I think they went from there to the Castlereagh Hotel and their name was Huitson and my friends name was Cedric. I would also like to know where another old friend is, he is called David Stephenson and he used to live on The Avenue in the 1950s. We were all met at a Sunday School camp in Marske Yorkshire.Regards to all from Ann in Australia
Ann Hansen nee Pike
- Thursday, November 29, 2007 at 14:53:31 (PST)

Hello Dorothy Hawkins. There was another Dorothy Reay in Seaham, wayback. Lived in The Avenue, Deneside. Number 25, I think. She will be about 74 now. Any relation? Hello Dorothy Hawkins. There was another Dorothy Reay in Seaham, wayback. Lived in The Avenue, Deneside. Number 25, I think. She will be about 74 now. Any relation?
Bobby Smith
Biggin Hill, - Thursday, November 29, 2007 at 14:52:14 (PST)

Hello Elizabeth Jallow. I asked Ed if he would ask you for your email address but I see by the guestbook that he has addressed my message to Elizabeth crawley from crawley.A simple mistake we could all make, never mind, hope you and your family are well. how is your mam by the way.please pass on your email address to Ed. best wishes Jim Duggan
Jim Duggan
Seaham, - Thursday, November 29, 2007 at 14:49:38 (PST)

what is happening to north east football these days, sunderland middlesboro newcastle and hartlepool all being stuffed as usual. why not merge all this rubbish together and have one big useless club instead of four ...did seaham red star manage a win.sack em all.
mick
sussex - Thursday, November 29, 2007 at 14:48:38 (PST)

There was a time in the North-East when death was of old age or cancer. There certainley is a cancer going through some places where a young Dad K. Johnson can get killed on his own doorstep. Earlier two wearside wonders were jailed for a long time for drug trafficing.Still, there is good and bad everywhere I suppose. In America one bloke shot another bloke for stealing his parking space. But, as the leaves of red and gold shwish by my window, I shall pay no heed and carry on, hoping for better times.
Brian Greenfingers
- Thursday, November 29, 2007 at 14:47:49 (PST)

Message for Lucy. Sorry for the delay in replying but Ive just had to have my computer fixed. Thank you so much for passing the message on to Joan and Billy Blacks daughter.I havnt heard from Joan yet but I hope I do. I worked with Joan at Cosmos in Sunderland in 1958 and My friend Laura and I were at Joan and Billy,s wedding.We are back in the North East every couple of years and always visit Seaham.Regards to you and yours. Have a Merry Xmas and a very Healthy and Happy New year.Regards from Ann
Ann Hanson nee Pike
Banora Point, NSW - Thursday, November 29, 2007 at 14:46:34 (PST)

hi liz hows you i hope all is well yes it is me who lived on the parkside cres been back in seaham 4years now
annmarie
seaham, - Thursday, November 29, 2007 at 14:44:52 (PST)

I have been following your very good website with interest and was wondering if anyone used to go to Northlea Comprehensive in the late 70s. My memory is not what it used to be, but I seem to remember Sandra Jeffries, Laura Stevens, George Hope, Anne-Marie Zawicki (sorry probably spelt that wrong). We were in Steven Lamb's class from 1974 to 1979. Does anyone know or remember anybody from this class?
Janet
St Sampsons, Guernsey - Thursday, November 29, 2007 at 14:44:02 (PST)

Brian Greenfingers:- My Brother Joe would of been 69/70 this year he was born and lived in Ryton Crescent then moved to the Avenue Deneside until he was about 15 he then lived in Maglona Street Dawdon with my Aunt and Uncle Ted and Jenny Cummings before moving to Hawthorn Square with my mother, myself and two sisters Jean and Eileen Lucy
Lucy Taylor
Seaham, - Thursday, November 29, 2007 at 14:42:43 (PST)

Elizabeth Crawley from Crawley: Jim Duggan wants your email address. If you send it to me I will pass it on. Just use the Guestbook form if you want to.
Ed Mason - Seaham Harbour Online
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Thursday, November 22, 2007 at 14:48:45 (PST)

I've just signed up with Post Office home-phone and broad-band, it's a good deal. I am paying less than when I was on BT. This up-date Vista makes Seaham and the Guest-Book much sharper. Seahamlad! are you still in the land of the living? If so, speak a few words of wisdom bonny lad. I noticed Jacquline mentioned that she would like to come back to Seaham to retire. Funny how folk will hanker after their roots when they have slid down the razorblade of life for what seems like an eternity.
Brian Greenfingers
- Thursday, November 22, 2007 at 14:45:13 (PST)

Lucy Taylor, I think I forgot to add the jupiter code when I replyed to your enquiry about Joe Marley and me. I'm 68 so the Joe I knew would be knocking 70. We worked collecting pig-swill on Sundays by horse and cart.
Brian Greenfingers
- Thursday, November 22, 2007 at 14:44:13 (PST)

Hi Wendy Fitzgerald - we share very close relatives, your mother was my mother, Olive Reay's cousin. My mother's mum was Julia Gilmore who married Harry Reay. It was my Mother's sister Moira who was good friends with your Mother, she moved to Hertfordshire and they retained their friendship, I remember visiting your Mum once when we stayed with them, but the last time I recall seeing your Mum was at my Uncles wedding in Bognor Regis and that has to be about 50 years ago - I do have a photograph of us all at the reception. There is only one Gilmore left now in Seaham and that is Tom Gilmore, also a cousin of your Mothers, he was the youngest son of her brother 'Clary'. It seems so strange that, there were so many Gilmores when I was growing up there, it would seem my generation all moved away. My mother Oliver is 82 now and lives in Grangetown and has a wonderful memory for family names having done our geneology from way back -if you would like me to find out any more details I am sure Ed can pass on our email addresses for us to correspond privately. Also Jim and Doris Chapman are also cousins, Doris being the niece of Harry and Julia Reay (mentioned above) and as far as I know they still live in Seaham and one of their daughters shares my name too. I look forward to hearing from you Wendy Good wishes Dorothy Hawkins (nee Reay)
Dorothy Hawkins
Harrogate, N. Yorks - Thursday, November 22, 2007 at 14:43:11 (PST)

To Brian Rowell, are you my great uncle Bert and aunt Hildas' son
Richard Witton
Falkirk, Stirlingshire - Thursday, November 22, 2007 at 14:40:40 (PST)

To Jacqueline:-- If you describe someone as dyed-in-the-wool, you mean they have very strong opinions and will not change.
Lucy Taylor
Seaham, - Thursday, November 22, 2007 at 14:39:37 (PST)

Hello Elizabeth Jallow,I lived next door to you on the crescent-Ian.
I C
Seaham, - Thursday, November 22, 2007 at 14:38:55 (PST)

For Anne Pike. Tonight, being Thursday 15th I talked to a girl whose mother was a Joan Watson who married Billy Black, they used to be steward and stewardess at the Royal Naval Club North Terrace Seaham.I told her of your posting in the guest book asking about Joan and gave her the net addy.Lucy
Lucy Taylor
- Friday, November 16, 2007 at 16:14:18 (PST)

To Brian Greenfingers:-On looking through old postings I see that you had a posting on(- Monday, February 19, 2007 at 15:05:29 (PST) where you are wondering what had happened to quite a few people from Seaham,one you name is Joe Marley and as I have only known one Joe Marley ( my brother) in Seaham I am wondering if it is him that you refer to.
Lucy Taylor
Seaham, - Friday, November 16, 2007 at 16:13:24 (PST)

I don't know what everyone else thinks but I'm very impressed by our new shopping arcade. It's a lovely addition. I hope it stays that way.
Helen
Seaham, - Friday, November 16, 2007 at 16:12:18 (PST)

Hello.I am trying to trace my roots as far as I can. If anyone has any information I would be very grateful. My grandmother was Alice Lawrence and she married William Rhodes who, I believe, was a miner at Easington Colliery. They lived in Horden. My great grandmother, ? Lawrence, died on the day of my birth - 10/3/53. I know my great grandmother had two daughter s - Alice and Annie and a number of sons who apparently all died. Some of these during WW1. I am keen to find any information about my family
Steve McCafferty
- Friday, November 16, 2007 at 16:11:35 (PST)

Aud Seaham- POT PIE JACK, Recipe for pot pie's, line a big basin with suet pastry and fill with cut pie meat, kidney and onion, don't forget the salt. Put more pastry on the top and cover with grease proof paper. Wrap a cloth around the top and put it in the pan of boiling water; simmer for 2 hours. Mrs Batey says " Pot Pie Jack (Wilson) was her grandfather and he was called this because he was always eating pot pies. He lived in California Street and was a coal hewer at Seaham Colliery. He lived until he was 91 years old, had 13 children, 3 of whom became professional footballer's - Tom, Bill and George. Tom Wilson played centre half for Huddersfield Town which he eventually captained; he was later elected Mayor of Huddersfield. Could this recipe also be called clouty pudding ? E Leighton
Eric Leightoner
- Friday, November 16, 2007 at 16:10:31 (PST)

Hi, my name is Wendy & I'm trying to find anyone who knew my Mother or her family. Her name was Elsie Gilmore. Her father was Frederick Gilmore - a butcher in Seaham and her Mother was Margaret Gilmore. The only address I have to go by is Dukes Street. I am also looking for either of two daughters (Margaret & Dorothy) of Jim & Doris Chapman, last know to be living in Dawdon in 1972. If anyone reading this knows of any family history, please contact me
Wendy Fitz Gerald
Redhill, Surrey - Friday, November 16, 2007 at 16:08:46 (PST)

My last contribution to Seaham OnLine must 3/4years ago now. But the historical comments from Eric Leighton early in October has galvanised me into action again. Though I didn't meet him professionally (perhaps just as well considering the pain he caused), Dentist Hart of Sebastopol Terrace practised across the road from Bath Terrace where my mother's family (Nicholson) lived. Hart's daughter was my sister's friend and they went to the same school, the Secondary School on Princess Road backing on to Camden Square. Davy Maitland was a household name and the bottom of Church Street was indeed his oratory box. Good wishes to all.
Brian Rowell
Brisbane, - Friday, November 16, 2007 at 16:07:23 (PST)

I have just found out that my grandfather helped to build The Ebenezer Hall, Londonderry Road, Easington. I wondered if anyone had any memories of this because he later married there. Pat
Pat
Eastbourne, - Friday, November 16, 2007 at 16:05:06 (PST)

I do not want to sound ignorant, but, Can anyone tell me, what is a "Dyed in the wool Mackem?" Is that a football team? (Euopean football - not American football) Thanks. Jacqueline.
Jacqueline
- Friday, November 16, 2007 at 16:04:23 (PST)

Hello out here, does anyone remember the name Stoker who used to live on Parkside Crescent ? would love to hear from you.
elizabeth jallow
crawley, - Friday, November 16, 2007 at 16:03:47 (PST)

did everybody know that seaham council are banning seaham residents from walking there dogs on seaham beach but are directing you towards ryhope beach to walk your dogs how come they have the power to do that
dogwalker
- Friday, November 16, 2007 at 16:02:53 (PST)

"Julie C" I think the American spelling really set in while I attended college over here. My English Professor "over-looked" some of my "British" spelling, but also stated that as I was taking quote, "American English" I ought to try to spell "American." Now it just comes naturally. Anyway... yes, you are right.. When in Rome, do as the Roman do. "When back in my own, native country, I shall indeed, spell the British way!" I tell you, I am just so impressed by all the beautiful improvements of Seaham - I think it is just wonderful that the town is now really trying to take pride. There was no reason why Seaham always had to have the impression it was a "run-down" town.
Jacqueline
- Friday, November 16, 2007 at 16:02:08 (PST)

Sorry for the hold up folks, it was unavoidable. We are back up and running so here we go.
Sadie M
Seaham, - Friday, November 16, 2007 at 16:00:40 (PST)

Anyway, on a lighter note, I see Led Zeppelin are going to play th O2 in London and 25 million people applied for tickets, I wonder if Harry Cattermole got one, I think he is the biggest Led Zeppelin fan there is. Speaking of him, I wonder if anyone ever sees Steve Taylor or Keith Banks, Andrew White, or anyone from that distant pas! t eons ago at Camden Square School. I could tell you some tales about that lot, however I don't need a restraining order at the moment so I'll leave it there. Bye!
Seaham ex pay
- Wednesday, October 24, 2007 at 14:48:41 (PDT)

Jaqueline If you decide to relocate to Seaham after you retire I am sorry but you will have to learn to spell English style all over again e.g. Seaham Harbour not Seaham Harbor
Julie C
Alliston, - Wednesday, October 24, 2007 at 14:47:25 (PDT)

Hi ED, thanks for your reply hope i have helped the seaham wed website. you have my surname as barker on the guest book it is Barkess. regards
bill barkess
coates nr peterborough, - Wednesday, October 24, 2007 at 14:45:17 (PDT)

My ancestors, John Short and his wife Jane were the first people to live in Francis Street (according to the 1841 census, they lived in the ONLY house there). Their daughter, Jane, had an illigitimate son to (as the story has been handed down) a sailor who went back to sea) called John Short. Some eighteen months later she married a Thomas Hewitson and her illigitimate son took his name and became John James Hewitson Short. The ONLY bit of Frances Street still standing is the pub! It is also handed down that Jane, the daughter, actually worked there.
Frederick Short
Hartlepool, - Wednesday, October 24, 2007 at 14:43:52 (PDT)

Bill Barker: Were you our 'keeper? If you send me the info I will add it to the site.
Ed Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Monday, October 22, 2007 at 15:57:37 (PDT)

to Ed Mason. Could you please give me the email address for Seaham Wednesday , as an ex player I can give the site a lot more news on past players. Bill Barker.
Bill Barker
Coates, Cambridgeshire UK - Monday, October 22, 2007 at 15:55:40 (PDT)

Tony from Spain. A welcome to you after Hospital. May you have many sons and may your cammels have many humps. I gave my e-mail address on the GB once and since then I have won a billion dollars, about fifty million pounds and millions of uroes. Well, this is according to all the junk-mailers who have contacted me. Funny though, I do'nt seem to have received a penny yet!
Brian Greenfingers
- Monday, October 22, 2007 at 15:50:24 (PDT)

Hi this is a message for Mick Smith in France. Hi there, i can remember a Gerry(not sure of surname now) used to go to the knack club, grey hair i think he used to wear a flower in his lapel. My husband is from Seaham.but left in the 60's. Would this be the same gerry do you think. Seaham is looking great at the moment, was up in July for a birthday. I love it up there, did u live in Seaham Mick. My husband still has family up there so we like to go up at least once a year. This g.b is great dont you think. Regards Maureen
Maureen
Farnborough, - Monday, October 22, 2007 at 15:49:01 (PDT)

Eric Ta very much for the maps. they're excellent. Nice to be able to pinpoint Australia Street where my great great grandmother Isabella Mcloughlin lived. found her in the 1891 census but couldn't pinpoint the address, thought it might be a tenement block down the harbour but it turns out to be nearly opposite Peter Brannigans shop at the top of the Mill Inn bank. Not far from you and not far from where I lived in from 62 to 76. Had trouble finding old Bella. I knew she was a McLoughlin whose husband had died in the Low colliery disaster and's buried under the monument at christchurch. Couldn't find her at first but then she turned up as McLofflin! There's pitmatic spelling for you. Looking at the Harbour map, I remember the old 'bomb buildings' as we used to call them. Would they have been Hunters Buildings? Opposite the Golden Lion. I was born in Tyne street and we used to play down there. That'll be Barclays Bank and the car park now. cheers again I owe you one.
Mick Smith
- Monday, October 22, 2007 at 15:47:26 (PDT)

If the new "hollywood" style complex takes off.. I may just retire back in Seaham Harbor. (A little over 20 years or so, until I retire.) The cost of living will increase, but I can imagine it will not be as it is here in the states. Jacqueline.
Jacqueline
USA - Monday, October 22, 2007 at 15:45:51 (PDT)

In reply to pauline Peel's query concerning her father.... My older brother Joe (then aged 14-15) was at that store at the same time. I have just spoken to him in Frankston, Victoria a few moments ago. He too sometimes delivered groceries. This is what he had to say.. I remember a man called Jones, he had blond hair. He had a couple of rooms in the house next to SPENCERS sweet shop. The shop was opposite the bank. We lived in the Battery on the cliffs just past there. I occasionally would see him walking along the prom on North Rd. He was called up early in the war and went to France with the Expeditionary Force. I had understood he was killed out there. My brother is 84 and in good health. He left Seaham in 1940 and went to live in Kettering. He was in the Royal Marines during the war and had lived in Australia since 1956.
Stan Cooper
Sale, Cheshire - Monday, October 22, 2007 at 15:44:36 (PDT)

To Tony from Spain, Nice to see you back on the guest book. Hope you are well.
Sal
Seaham, - Sunday, October 14, 2007 at 15:22:30 (PDT)

My son has a 8 month old whippet dog, He is new to the sport, and really keen, I hoped you would be able to give him and myself, some idea about training and joining a whippet club? After finding the Web site, Dawdon whippet club is the nearest to Murton,the village we live in, so any information regarding the above, would be really helpful. Waiting in anticipation, Yours fraternally. J.Kitson.
J.Kitson
- Sunday, October 14, 2007 at 15:21:19 (PDT)

Nice to be back reading the comments again after a rather long spell in the old hospital,unfortunately I see she's back dominating the G.B. with her political and religous clap trap - will you never get the message Jacquline.....
Phil
- Sunday, October 14, 2007 at 15:20:40 (PDT)

What a let down to me, the new Asda store in Seaham is.I was really looking forward to not having to travel to Peterlee. I went to the Seaham branch armed with my list only to find they don't stock quite a lot of the things on it. When at the checkout I asked the girl about the items I couldn't find and was told that they wouldnt be stocking them as they are what is known as a convenience store. So its back to Peterlee for me.
Lucy Taylor
- Sunday, October 14, 2007 at 15:20:06 (PDT)

message for tracey murray, it doesn't look as though we are related none of your howe names ring a bell. if you have any further info please place on the noticeboard, as i mentioned before my ancestors came from seaham, hetton le hole and chester le street area's and were mostly coal miners. regards john howe
john howe
- Thursday, October 11, 2007 at 15:05:58 (PDT)

Eric Leighton, if you could send your email address to Ed Mason he can pass it on to me? Ref the Vane Arms do you remember Gerry Smith who had the place in the fifties or his father Jocker who had pubs in Seaham?
mick smith
france - Thursday, October 11, 2007 at 15:05:08 (PDT)

Does anyone remember my father Ernie Jones, used to work at Thompson Red Stamp Stores from 1936 until 1940. He used to deliver the groceries on his bike all over Seaham in those days. He lived in 1 Sebastopol Terrace and Mrs Simmons had the shop downstairs. He is 91 years old now and is still fit enough to ride his bike around Seaham. Would love to know if anyone can remember him. Pauline Peel
Pauline Peel
- Thursday, October 11, 2007 at 15:04:02 (PDT)

Tales from old Seaham. The Black Dentist.- He worked from a cart that stood at the bottom of Church St where the Salvation band gathered on a Saturday night. He pulled teeth out without using any anaesthetic. Many foreign seaman came up to the Vane Arms (maybe for a bit Dutch courage ) and had their teeth pulled out by the Black Dentist. It was cheaper than going to the Dentist who charged 2/6d to take a tooth out, this was considered a high fee in those days. Mrs Islip remembers another Dentist "We also had a Dentist called Hart who lived in Sebastopol Terrace. I went there when I was 9 years old, he had nothing to numb the pain and he only got half of it out. I would' t go to the Dentist until I was 20 years old and that was to get the other half out. Another person remembered who used to stand at the bottom of Church St on Saturday night was Davy Maitland, a reformed drunkard who had 'got religion'. Davy Maitland was a " Hot Gospeler" who often preached at the bottom of Church St. He was a skilled and eloquent orator "Bringing the Word" to all who passed his way. Eric Leighton
Eric Leighton
Seaham, - Sunday, October 07, 2007 at 02:43:31 (PDT)

Hi Sadie, it is a small world. I live in Seaham now as I married again 3 years ago for the second time. Hope you and your husband are well. Pauline Jones
Pauline Jones
Seaham, - Sunday, October 07, 2007 at 02:38:52 (PDT)

FAO- Mike Smith, let me know your e=mail if pos. or the name and address in Northlea.
E.Leighton
Seaham, - Tuesday, October 02, 2007 at 15:46:34 (PDT)

thanks bandit,i am beginning to get info on my mothers side of the family. WHY do we leave these things so late..?? looking at the last dozen entries in the G/book shows what a great service it provides RM
r masters
stevenage, - Tuesday, October 02, 2007 at 15:45:27 (PDT)

My mother (Joyce Watson) lived in Longnewton Street, Seaham and was tought to play the organ by a Mr Routledge who was stand-in organist for Durham Cathedral. Does anyone know anything about him?
Pat
Eastbourne, - Sunday, September 30, 2007 at 15:33:10 (PDT)

Hello E Leighton. Sorry, missed your reply and I'm now back home in France. Can we do this by post, or, if you're nearby you could drop them off in Northlea..... Let me know what you want for them? Thanks in advance. mick
mick smith
France - Sunday, September 30, 2007 at 15:32:22 (PDT)

FAO john rochester,thanks for trying, but i am getting info, this g/book is great,, r,masters
r.masters
stevenage, - Sunday, September 30, 2007 at 15:31:20 (PDT)

fao carol weaver,a correction & addition after info from my bro,,for jennifer read allison,also one more sister,margaret,second eldest had alec,betty,sadie& steve. these senior moments are coming more often.r masters
r. masters
stevenage, - Sunday, September 30, 2007 at 15:30:35 (PDT)

Thank you Lucy !!!!!! I went to Enterprise site and have been able to reserve a car at the best rates I have ever seen..Thanks again
Judy C
Alliston, - Sunday, September 30, 2007 at 15:29:33 (PDT)

Hi Philip Richardson. My Grandmother, Ellen was you grandfather's older sister and of course Charles would be our Great Uncle. I have lived in stevenage for 34 years but do make occasional trips to Seaham Regards John Cookland
John Cookland
stevenage, - Sunday, September 30, 2007 at 15:28:41 (PDT)

what jackie is saying is that if everybody in the world was like god, we would all be living in heaven.
mick
sussex, - Sunday, September 30, 2007 at 15:27:17 (PDT)

to R Masters one of the rochesters that lived in Dawdon crescent was Tony he lived with his gran who ran the betting shop in the alley there was also bill rochester who lived in one othe streets across from the crescent fox street or one of them infact i think he still lives there.There were others alex that lives in grants houses or did and another one that lives in scotland.Tony worked at Dawdon coll and lives in grangetown.There was another big family of rochesters that lived in Ryton cres thier father was called jimmy and ran the jazz band up there.I dont know if any of this would help you.
Bandit
Sunderlsnd, - Sunday, September 30, 2007 at 15:26:33 (PDT)

Hello, does any one remember any Routledge's? My Grandfather came from Seaham and was born in 1915 his name was Edward and he had a brother called Charles, plus several other brothers and sisters (i have the names written down). He left in the early 30's to join the army, the Royal Horse Artillery and was posted to India, then the Desert War with Monty and co.
Philip Richardson
Hemel Hempstead, - Tuesday, September 25, 2007 at 15:02:41 (PDT)

hello carol weaver.nice to have the g/book used as intended,my mothers name was florrie.youngest of the rochesters the others were bob,pheobe harriet ,sally.& grace. i was told as a child that another sister had died but no further info. my gran...bobs mother, died in a fire at the lawns about 1946---47 she had remarried a man named lincoln,no info about him. i visited jack.in 1947 with my father,he then lived in willoughby lane tottenham but cant remember any chidren, or much about him or his wife i wasin jnr school when hayley died.& was in nat,service when grace died,in an accident at peterlee. pheobe had no children, harriet a boy,william, grace 2 girls,june & jennifer &aunt sally as far as i know never married,florie my mother had 2 sons,myself & bill.i was told uncle bob served ww1 as an artillery driver but that is the extent of my family knowledge, as a boy i worked for princess dairy & vaguely remember a pheobe rochester living at parkside who ! said she was related but i really am short of info on my mothers side & am grateful for your info r,masters
r. masters
stevenage, - Tuesday, September 25, 2007 at 15:01:26 (PDT)

To R.Masters,sorry but I don't recognise any of the names you have mentioned, I know there was two Rochester families in Dawdon Crescent but we were not related, best wishes with your search. John Rochester
John Rochester
Selby, North Yorks - Tuesday, September 25, 2007 at 15:00:09 (PDT)

:Have just been listening to an interview with Tommy Steele on the radio .He is shortly to appear on stage as Dr.Doolittle . They played some of his old numbers including "Rock with a Caveman|" one of his big hits. This then reminded me of his appearance at Sunderland Empire, which , I believe , was his first live stage performance and what followed is , as they say , History. Thinking of this I remembered , as a pupil at Seaham Girls Grammer School , a girl called Carol who could do a mean impression of Tommy which we clapped along to while she gyrated and sang his hits and I seem to remember this was in the school hall. Can't think of Carol's surname now ...does anyone else remember her "tribute to Tommy" M.C. Moulton.Lincs.
Muriel Cox
Moulton, Spalding - Tuesday, September 25, 2007 at 14:58:49 (PDT)

my grandad worked at dawdon pit. Jack/John Fraser. Norrie Fraser is my nana, she worked at Dawdon junior school as a dinner nanny. my mam Noreen and Aunty Jackie also went to Camdon school. They used to live in Malcolm st. and then to Longnewton St 7a I think. I used to spend many a holiday in Seaham and loved it. Watching the jazz bands and going to the Pit Pond. It would be great to hear from anyone who new nana and i can pass any message on. tracey
Tracy Murray
Newbury, Berks - Tuesday, September 25, 2007 at 14:56:37 (PDT)

for Jacqueline.like j,williams i look forward to reading comments about people of seaham area,looking for friends& memories of in most cases our youth.like j williams your inane ramblings make me seethe,,,. first.iran does not have a nuke capability. niether had iraq. but they do have something dear to america,s heart.. OIL..as for jews & christians being persecuted,the jews have for years & are still persecuting & stealing land from palistinians.. isreal is also one of the few nations with the nuclear bomb [ supplied by who ].the other nation killing islamics on a scale almost equaling what happened to christians in WW2 is america [how many civillian men,women & children??? ]America, Led by a clown who is also a religious zealot, with his finger on the nuke button & is at present trying to revive the cold war with russia,your parents,like me,lived during WW2.where the bad guys were on the OTHER side.so yes its more dangerous now only because we have ! blinkered idiots like bush & you as well as an ex prime minister of england who stetched the truth to contend with. your christianity is at best skin deep.& i regard you as dangerous as the many radical islamists you claim to know we have in england. a famous man said jaw ,jaw is better than war,war.for all our sakes,go out in your adopted country & talk peace ,or better still keep your rantings to yourself,dont hijack our G/book
R Masters
- Tuesday, September 25, 2007 at 14:55:24 (PDT)

Although I rarely agree with Jacqueline's views, I know her and went to school with her and can honestly say she is a really nice person and I don't think she means to upset people.
Helen
Seaham, - Sunday, September 23, 2007 at 15:04:58 (PDT)

I asked if you can pass my e-mail address to John Rochester who was trying to get in touch with me. We have not met in over thirty years and would be nice to find out what has been happening over the years . I was hoping to find out what happened to another friend i have not seen Ian Deighton who lived in Dawdon in the Sixtys if any body knows can they get in touch. this web site has is great i find out more here than when i visit Seaham .I also missed the friends i had when i worked at Dawdon colliery as a fitter back in the late sixtys early seventys any body rember me get in touch.
Dougy
St Austell, Cornwall - Sunday, September 23, 2007 at 15:04:14 (PDT)

For Judy C of Alliston Ontario there is a Hire car company in Sunderland called Enterprise Car Hire , they also have an internet site (http://www.enterprise.com) I am told that they have reasonbale prices' Lucy
Lucy Taylor
Seasham, - Sunday, September 23, 2007 at 15:02:52 (PDT)

Hello, R Masters, I think that I can provide some more info on Bob Rochester (son of John Thomas and Sarah Jones, I believe) whose second wife was Lilian Plant. His first wife, Elizabeth Ann Wilkinson, was the sister of my Grandma, Alice Ethel Wilkinson (both the daughters of Hailes Harrison Wilkinson and Ada Watson). Robert was living at 60 Swinebank Cottages when he and Elizabeth Ann were married. I am in touch with Elizabeth and Robert's grandson, my 2nd cousin Bob Rochester, living in Kent. He has provided quite a bit of info about that side of the family, and I have photos of Robert and Elizabeth with their son Robert, Bob's dad, when he was an infant, about 1917. Robert is in army uniform, and I think that he was a driver. My grandma and Elizabeth both called two of their children Hales and Ada, after their parents, but I think that Elizabeth's Hales got called Hayley. Alice's Hales was my dad, Hales Alfred Richardson, but he was always calle! d Alf, never Hales or Hayley. Bob has sent photos of Hales (Hayley) and Ada with Elizabeth, and of Grace and his dad's other step-siblings, Billy and Norah Rochester, when they were kids. When I first got in touch with him a couple of years ago, he said that Billy and Norah were still alive. What was your mother's name? Elizabeth Ann died at 8 months pregnant of aplastic anaemia. I think he said 1926, but I am not sure as I think that Robert married Lillian in 1926, and it seems a bit too soon. Robert and Elizabeth also had a son John Thomas, who was known as Jack, and I can remember him coming to visit my dad (who would be his and Bob Jnr's 1st cousin) at New Ollerton, Notts, when I was a kid in the late 1950s I think. He had a big grey Humber, as far as I can recall, and it was very impressive at that time, as very few people could afford cars. I have photos of him, one of them in naval uniform. Bob hasn't been in touch for a while, but he wasn't very well. Let me know if you would like me to mail anything to you. I will contact Bob as well when I have heard from you. Kind regards, Carol.
Carole Weaver
Carlisle, - Sunday, September 23, 2007 at 15:02:07 (PDT)

fao. judy c you are welcome to call in judy away nov. 10th/ 24th, go to murton, the dene its halfed with a foot bridge over the road !!!! and a designer outlet on the pit heap, and brassies hossers i don,t know if they are still there as its 1991 since i last paid a visit, wait until you see seaham harbour , the investment that has gone on is just great, now i am getting homesick for my homeland, you think of it how it was , you know my email , when are you coming home?
lorna stokes
scarborough, north yorks - Sunday, September 23, 2007 at 14:59:24 (PDT)

jacqeline this site is for people looking for friends and family not for religious views , we know about wars and history AND THE USA , i am proud where i came from ,and keep your religious rantings to yourself thank you
lorna stokes
Scarborough, N.Yorks UK - Sunday, September 23, 2007 at 14:51:26 (PDT)

Hi all I have just booked my flight to come home to Seaham in November.I guess that I will see some changes it has been 19 years since I was home Can anyone tell me the best place to rent a car in Seaham or area for the month.Lorna I may even surprise you and stop in Scarborough on my way up country!!!
Judy C
Alliston, Ontario - Friday, September 21, 2007 at 16:07:47 (PDT)

Hi Lucy, Lovely to get your reply. Ian is on the internet and I will tell him you have a letter in the Seaham Guest book.He does remember you very well . Love from Ann
Ann Hanson
Banora Point, NSW - Friday, September 21, 2007 at 16:06:40 (PDT)

hi terry mckenna i do remember your mams family my mam dolly is fine she is living in london now near my sister margaret i do rmember your husband i hope you are all well it is lovely reading the comments from everyone about seaham it brings back some lovely memories.regards to you all
dorothy mckay
boston, lincolshire - Friday, September 21, 2007 at 16:05:52 (PDT)

there will never be a nuclear war, the rich have too much to lose.
mick
sussex - Friday, September 21, 2007 at 16:04:37 (PDT)

Jacqueline, I have only in the last year started to read the comments posted to this site and most of the time it is great to see old friends getting in contact with each other and passing info regarding the past and future, however when i see your name I cringe as I know you are going to say something derogatory about either seaham or it people and I don't care if you used to live here or not. I get the feeling you take great pride in winding people up by forcing your views on them to get some sort of reaction as you have done with me, so here we go! Please post your religious views and dreads of the worlds end somewhere else because i frankly think you are full of s**t
john williams
- Friday, September 21, 2007 at 16:03:49 (PDT)

My Grandfather Aaron McGlen came to America in 1899 and left his family behind in Seaham. His father was named John Mcglen he married Sarah Lawson and had 8 children I believe Sarah was buried around Easington,Durham,England.in 1902 and John about 1914 or so His father Patrick My 2XGrandfather had 9 children also. some lived around the Chester-le-street Durham England. The last known adress was 6 Seaham Street. New Seaham. Any information email me at marymcglen@hotmail.com I know there is still some liveing in the area and all over England I have quit a book already and I am wait to add any more living or stories to Our book. Please someone find anyone with the last name Mcglen they have to be related but we are trying to put it all toghter Thanks for all your help........Please Help.
Mary Mcglen
Stevens Point , Wisconsin USA - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 15:16:20 (PDT)

France warning Europe and USA to prepare for War with Iran, if Iran continues with it's Nuclear weapons... What did I tell you people a few years ago? Also, John Armes said the same thing - the country we need to be concerned about it Iran. Oh people.... If we go to War with Iran within the next year or so, as predicted... Lives are changed forever. I have no idea what to expect, but what comes to mind, are Christians and Jews being persecuted - worse than the Jews experienced during WW2. London is filled with radicals - we had all pray for God's grace. You know, it is really interesting for us 30 somethings, (and younger) to be thinking "We have life so good!" So much more than our parents, grandparents, in terms of luxuries, and other materialism - but really, underneath, all the luxuries that we have and all the convenience, we have less - less, because we have become so consumed with wanting more and bigger, that we have forgotten we need God back int! o our countries, lives and families. I think we are just a big mess! Hey, even I admit, I enjoy the luxuries of life and the convenience of things. Wow! what a world we now live in. When I was a kid, I would never have thought I would be an adult living with the reality of a Nuclear War - far dangerous than my parents experienced in WW2.
Jacqueline
USA - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 15:14:13 (PDT)

FAO-Mike - France. I have the maps you want, if your still coming to Seaham. We will have to make some arrangments to hand over the maps. please let me know the dates. E LEIGHTON
E. Leighton
Seaham, - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 15:12:33 (PDT)

marc witten, why were you told off for going into the marattys..
popeye
yorks - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 15:11:49 (PDT)

Yes Ann I am that person (Lucy Chambers) now Taylor I remember Ian well, I used to be at Camden Square school with Joan McCombie(another who went to Australia) and got to know Ian through visits to Joans. I am still in Seaham It is nice to see old names etc. in this guest book.I hope that you are all in good health.Give Ian my regards. Lucy
Lucy
Seaham, Co. Durham - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 15:10:55 (PDT)

fao mark witton do you know my brother in calne, he married one of the brittains , clive brittains sister , why i ask is he said he had been talking to a neighbour about valentes ice cream parlour, that caterina valente the singer was there daughter ? i looked at her life and she was born in paris,is it true or what, do you know ?
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 15:09:58 (PDT)

Hi Pauline, Great to hear from you. Sadie Beer here, Sadie Mason. I run this guestbook with my husband. Small world is'nt it. You brought back great memories. How come you are living in Seaham.
Sadie M
- Sunday, September 16, 2007 at 13:13:30 (PDT)

Hi i have fond memories of seaham as a kid,playing on the beach,featherbed rocks,going to Valentee(ice cream place),high street,getting told off for going into Maratty;s,Both my parents and grand parents came from seaham,gran first lived at bath terrace,last house by the cliff edge,then later moved to dene house road,2nd bungalow on left.i would long for summer holidays and half term,it meant staying at grans.have only been back once and that was in 84-85 time day visit when i was station at RAF Linton on Ouse.happy times all the best from Marc Witten
Marc Witten
calne, wiltshire - Sunday, September 16, 2007 at 13:11:02 (PDT)

I think the idea of creating Seaham docks into a Marina - is such a wonderful idea - and hope that it will be accomplished. Who knows.. Perhaps I may want to invest my earnings from the states back into my home town - Now wouldn't that be ironic! The ideas of a "new and improved" Seaham are just flouishing! Now all y'all need to do is get the kids of Seaham to take ride in their town and to stop with the vandalization and hooligan behavior. However, that is the responsibility of the parents.
Jacqueline
USA - Sunday, September 16, 2007 at 13:09:42 (PDT)

OLD SEAHAM- Abe Smith- The 'dry' toilet of the Colliery houses was situated at the bottom of each long back garden. For obvious reasons when one had the call of nature it was a practice to take a shovel of hot ashes from the coal fire down to the toilet or 'Netty', its local name, especially in the winter. Toilet paper consisted of cut up papers of the local newspaper, so one was indulging in self education as the same time as answering the call of nature. There was a 'LET HOLE' at the back of the netty (or midden) which opened out on to the back street. On a set day Abe Smith and his 'scavenger' cart pulled by a horse would come round and empty the Netties. You avoided the Netty when Abe Smith was about and the young lads who threw cold water thru the emptying hole, it was quite a shook getting cold water on your posterior. The contents of the Scavenger cart went back on the farmland and so the recycling process began again. Thanks to the Newsletter by Seaham Project 1995
E. Leighton
- Sunday, September 16, 2007 at 13:08:51 (PDT)

hi i am trying to contact any kenworthy,s.my fathers father was charles kenworthy b4/12/1878-d?/10/1946 and would appreciate any help from anyone at all as lost all contacts.
nick kenworthy
lillydale, victoria - Sunday, September 16, 2007 at 13:07:42 (PDT)

In reply to Mrs Stephenson the Sayers family lived in 2nd street i believe. The club you refer to was the officials. It is now called the sportsmans.Just came across the sight by chance. Very good. I recognise one or two names.Terry Mckenna and i went to st bedes with a david groark in the early to mid 70s. Hi to anyone who has a memory that stretches far enough back to remember me. Regards. Brian Connor.
Brian Connor
Easington, - Sunday, September 16, 2007 at 13:06:31 (PDT)

Jacqueline, I thought I'd seen the last of your "Godly" zealot views. The reason there's a huge increase in crime by teenagers is not because they haven't found God you stupid woman, it's because there is no credible punishment for these morons from being out of control. Bleeding heart liberals like you have got both the US and the UK rewarding criminals and punishing the victims. Shut up jacqueline just shut up.
Seaham ex pat
- Sunday, September 16, 2007 at 13:05:24 (PDT)

This is for Lucy. Hi Lucy, I spoke to my brother Ian and he said you could be the Lucy that he used to deliver newspapers with when he was a lad. Ian is now living in Tasmania. Tara for now from Ann
Ann Hanson
Banora Point, NSW - Sunday, September 16, 2007 at 13:04:34 (PDT)

Yes Lucy, my Parents lived in Corcyra St many years ago. I have a brother called Ian. Regards from Ann
Ann Hanson
Banora Point, new south wales - Sunday, September 16, 2007 at 13:03:34 (PDT)

My name used to be Pauline Jones, I stayed with Aunt Hannah and Uncle Ned in Stanley Street, I was very friendly with a girl called Sadie Beer at the time from Oliver Street, I live in Seaham now. Does Sadie still live here?
Pauline Peel
Seaham, - Sunday, September 16, 2007 at 13:02:30 (PDT)

fao. do ron ron masters . sorry i missed yu , and that yu have been layed up , yu wouldn,t reconize the dene now yu cross a road bridge a19, my last visit was a bit of a shock ,but i did my video of my haunts , take a l@@k at google earth ,ive been to murton, seaham harbour , so if i get homesick i take a l@@k. I was told about northern people that we are stubborn, resilient, steadfast and have integrity , it was how we were brought up , AND i agree, keep fighting do ron ron , i am coming for xmas , had a great time in stevenage nice town, went to watford, hemel, chesham , yu play bones , i on mouth organ, my hubby on trumpet make a good trio , can yu remember tot hedley lived on dene terrace, he did THE ONE ARMED, ONE LEGGED SILENT HARMONICA PLAYER ,not a sound came out, he got a standing ovation in murton vic.my yorkshire hubby said he,d never seen anything like it , bet judy c remembers him, my daughter had a barby and i did that for them!!!!! fao.WALTER RILEY WERE ARE YU? keep well ron.
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Sunday, September 16, 2007 at 13:01:17 (PDT)

Hi folks. Its that time of year again when we will be carrying out site maintainance. Although no new messages will be added to the Guestbook for about two weeks please keep them coming in and your contributions will be added when we get back to normalagain.
Ed Mason <Seaham Harbour Online>
- Sunday, August 26, 2007 at 15:51:14 (PDT)

Hi, this is Jacqueline... and I want to bring to attention, what you probably are already aware of.. and that is what I read in the newspaper this morning, just 20 minutes ago.. The growing violence in Great Britain. I read an 11 year old boy was shot and killed, in the bigger cities, this year alone, 18 kids have been either stabbed or shot. I am not comparing the US to the UK or to other countries around the world - every country is now experiencing a new wave of violence among our youth, more severe than ever. This has everything to do with the "break-down" of families, the lack of God in family homes, the lack of knowing what is "immoral." kids, and families, in their 20's, 30's are so desensitized against immorality. The respect for parents, teachers, and authority is no longer there. The family unit has broken down. Our laws of society should be divine laws, and divinity comes from God - the basic 10 commandments. I would say, we are coming close t! o a "Spiritual Warfare." We have lost all sense of "Godliness" - We are now becoming a "free-for-all" society. Not many people in my age group are in agreement with me, but I can bet my last dollar, people in their 50's, 60's and upwards, are in full agreement. Why? Because those people grew up with "God" in their homes, and morality was instilled in their lives. I know for a fact that Elizabeth Armes agrees with me, as many of you "older" people. My opinions here have nothing to do with pushing "Jesus" on to you, Instead, is has everything to do with try to promote God back into the family unit. We have become a society of I-Pods, cell phones, computer games, etc... long gone are the days where kids went out to play, or had evening meals with their parents. I basically have said all of this a few years ago.. and I was mocked, well, now I am saying it again... and again, each year, society is getting worse.... Now we are again on the brink of War with Iran - Nuclear War... ! I will say it now, as I said it before, Mother Theresa said, "! The fruit of abortion is nuclear war." The fact we have become so far from Godly values, is showing within society.
Jacqueline
USA - Sunday, August 26, 2007 at 15:46:05 (PDT)

FAO Carol. It wouldn't have been me who helped you as I don't work on Tuesdays but I'm pleased you got the information you were after. I hope I do meet you there if you're in again. Best wishes
Helen
Seaham, - Sunday, August 26, 2007 at 15:42:31 (PDT)

FAO.lorna stokes.sorry for the delay.glad you enjoyed your holi.sorry i missed you but was a guest of the local hospital& missed your entry ,seems i wont be able to do that run thru the dene & up the times bank to the nack again.but ive done it before,why bother doing it again,heard about your performance on the spoons.a virtuoso performance,,local places of entertainment contacting me as your manager to book you .im ok on the bones so could accompany. usual fees less a leek pasty ,,my commission,,fixed the guards,sorry could do nothing for the weather, look after yourself & the other half, the kids just tell me,keep going you old fool,& i try.RM
r.masters
stevenage, - Sunday, August 26, 2007 at 15:41:45 (PDT)

Ann Pike of Banora Point did you ever live in Corcyra Street
Lucy
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Thursday, August 23, 2007 at 13:55:14 (PDT)

Ann Pike of Banora Point did you ever live in Corcyra Street
Lucy
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Thursday, August 23, 2007 at 13:55:07 (PDT)

Hi, I went on "google earth" this morning, and I was able to zoom in on my parents street and house! I saw the next door neighbors car parked in the front. Oh Gosh! Now you cannot tell me we have still got our freedom - We have not! And this freeked me out! Our Government use the excuse of "terrorists" well that may be so.. but the Patriot Act completely takes away all freedom. I also am aware that Great Britain has little freedom rights also... Big Brother is on every corner. Anyway, this evening CNN are doing another report, this time on Islam, - the Jihad... Islam is the fastest growing Religion in the world and the extremeist do indeed want to convert all of us. This next election here in USA will pave the way! With a Hillary or Obama - My Gosh, we will be in such a mess! And the Republicans are equally as dangerous. Everything I have said, previously, is all coming to a head.... And John Armes was right a few years ago.. he had said "Iran" is the country we need to be concerned about... Well... wouldn't you know, there are "talks" of attacks with Iran. Once that happens... Christians need to be on guard.
Jacqueline
USA - Thursday, August 23, 2007 at 13:54:17 (PDT)

Evening all. I`m after a map of Seaham (The Godfrey Edition) showing the town around the eighteen nineties (ish.) I`ll be visiting in Sept so could collect. Happy to pay a reasonable price for this out of print map
Mick
France, - Thursday, August 23, 2007 at 13:53:04 (PDT)

I was born in Seahamin 1935, left for Manchester when I was 7 and returned when I was 14 and went to the SIS as my older brothers and sisters had done. I returned to Manchester when I was 16. While I was in Seaham I made some very good friends. I have since seen one occasionally, Bill Whitelock. I'd love to know how the others got on. They were; Harrison Mullen, Margaret Hoy, Evelyn Trewick, Joan Strong, Sylvia Smith. I also spent some time delivering groceries (rationed) for Seaham Co-op. We used a horse and cart. The two guys I worked with were Tony and Joe. I'd love to hear from any of them.
Stan Cooper
Sale, Cheshire UK - Thursday, August 23, 2007 at 13:52:19 (PDT)

Doing Family Tree Oliver,Young,Robinson ( moved to U.S.A? early 1900s),Cattermole,Smith lived in Hetton-Le-Hole and Second St Horden Durham.If anyones has photos etc of Second St 1930/1940s please get in touch.
Clair
Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire - Thursday, August 23, 2007 at 13:51:11 (PDT)

can anybody remember bob philips the barber on the avenue half way through your cut he would go the goerge for a bootle of double maxim if you went at five oclock you got fhe basin on ha ha
coalhewer
- Thursday, August 23, 2007 at 13:49:12 (PDT)

To Ex Pat. I am Eric's son if you wish to get in touch. Eric still lives in Seaham with my Mother Ena.
Ian Watson
Stevenage, Herts - Thursday, August 23, 2007 at 13:48:28 (PDT)

Yes Peter we know yr mum and dad(ha ha) Hope all is well Maureen and Frankie
maureen
farnborough, - Sunday, August 19, 2007 at 16:42:06 (PDT)

hi jackie. proplems with the church today is that sadly no one believes in god anymore. they have been let down to many times. to much pain so much poverty tro out the world. and the murders and muggers. there punishment or diciplin. i would like to believe in god but i dont know. by the way welcome back.
popeye
yorks, - Sunday, August 19, 2007 at 16:41:20 (PDT)

Old Seaham-The Humpty Barber. There are many several different recollections of this character, "He was a possible relation of old Tom Stamper and had a barber shop by the Mainline Store next to the chandler's. Many ship's captains came to him and they each had their own individual shaving mugs which were set out in rows in the shop. He was quite a character and either a bit of a hump or a wooden leg" George Willis and Arthur Lane think he had the barber shop in Parkinson's Buildings which stood where the Methodist Church in Enfield Road stands now. Mrs Islip recalls "He was a terrible barber. I once cut my own hair and my mother was so shocked that she sent me to Humpty's to straighten it out. When he had finished my hair, it looked twice as bad" Mr Mussen say's he believes he used to have a shop where the pet shop stands now at the bottom of Church St. Mr Falconer says "His real name was Woodward and he had a barber's shop in North Railway St (near Aldi's). He was a hunchback and was only little so he had to stand on a pop bottle box to see over the counter"
E. Leighton
- Sunday, August 19, 2007 at 16:40:28 (PDT)

I have read the name Watson in quite a few of the letters.I wonder if anyone knows of a Joan Watson from Parkside who married a lad called Billy Black about 1958/9.I worked with Joan at Cosmos in Sunderland. I live in Australia now and I would love to know how Joan is.Regards to you all from Aussie
Ann Piike
Banora Point, NSW - Sunday, August 19, 2007 at 16:39:03 (PDT)

F.A.O.john rochester,saw the name in the G/B.been going thru family history,my mother was a Rochester,but i never knew any one other than her sisters.i now find she had a brother BOB,he lived in dawdon, near boozy alley.???his son Hayley,died when i was 4 so didnt know him,his daughter grace was killed in road accident at peterlee some time in 50s ,his second wife was called Lilley and they had children but i have no records of them.is there any connection with yourself and that family.grace & hayley would have been my cousins but i was to young to remember them.any info would be appreciated ,R,M
r.masters
stevenage, - Sunday, August 19, 2007 at 16:37:50 (PDT)

hi would anyone remember a William henry Wood,he used to live in viceroy st with his gran,worked at dawdon colliery and saved by his pit pony in a blast.
William Wood
Birmingham, - Sunday, August 19, 2007 at 16:35:45 (PDT)

FAO. Wade Lawson my mother has spoken to Tom Dawson and he was delighted to here that you had made contact. probably made his day. he said he hasn't got an email address but if you'd like his home address i'd pass it on to you if you give your email address to sadie mason who runs this site.
angela
Seaham, - Sunday, August 19, 2007 at 16:34:23 (PDT)

hi pepper its me again glad to hear your all ok, our karen is not courting now norman is still with debbie.are you still working, the new landlord out of the oddies has done a bunk, and funnily enough young melissa has aswell strange, but funny i might invest in a sat nav and come to see you with the little fella for a few days and we will hit the town will keep in touch ime at work on saturdays phone me with your e mail address love terry
terry Mckenna
Seaham, - Sunday, August 19, 2007 at 16:33:39 (PDT)

Sorry - yes, the meeting I didn't get to was a one-off, I think, on the Wednesday pm after I had been to Seaham. I don't know whether you are the one who helped me at first, Helen, but the help was first class. Thanks to one and all. I've emailed Cath with some details, but I haven't heard back as yet.
Carol Weaver
Carlisle, - Sunday, August 19, 2007 at 16:31:52 (PDT)

Just found a Cook relation on board a ship called 'Vane Tempest' on the 1901 Census: I wonder if there is any connection, and if so, what?! Like the sculpture
Enid
Scotland - Saturday, August 18, 2007 at 16:15:32 (PDT)

does anyone remeber my mum sheila browm or my dad harry neil
peter
- Saturday, August 18, 2007 at 16:14:38 (PDT)

Hi, this is Jacqueline, I just read the online Sunderland Echo - I had some time, and decided to browse the "happenings" of Seaham... Given family members have told me life is totally different as to what it was 20 years ago. Anyway... does seem things are very different - mostly positive, I shall say! Though, one thing I read, that disheartened me, was about the guy who became ill on one of the ride at the Seaham Carnival - and then to have hooligans steal his wallet - I think that is outrages! Furthermore, to my surprise, I happen to know the guys partener very well - Debbie Harrison. She was in my class at school from Ropery Walk, and at Northlea. She was in my Math class - Debbie and I knew each other very well indeed. I am sorry to hear that happend to her "friend" and that she has to go through much grief. If any one sees her, and talks to her, please tell her Jacqueline sends her condolences and prayers. Other things I notice about the "goings on! " is there is a lot more crimes than before... more muggings, killings, and drugs... what is all of that about? Otherwise, the "cleaning" up of the town and all the new facilities and other things to do and to see - are great! All Good! All Positive! Though, I do wish the attendances of churches were all positive - that is one thing that has gone down the drain pipes over the 20 years. I remember when St. John's had a Sunday School and the Youth Group, and kids in the Choir etc... Long gone are those days and that is a shame, because there are 2 things that keep kids on the " right path" and those are number 1: Church, and 2, Scouts or sports.
Jacqueline
USA - Saturday, August 18, 2007 at 16:14:01 (PDT)

Anyone know the whereabouts of Eric Watson? Worked in the pay office at Vane Tempest and was later a Seaham councillor. Has a sister, Jean
'Ex-Pat'
London, UK - Saturday, August 18, 2007 at 16:11:17 (PDT)

Just to say that I had realise that the Chris was actually Cath. That's what happens when you get all excited about finding where your ancestors lived! Cheers.
Carol Weaver
Carlisle, Cumbria - Monday, August 13, 2007 at 15:01:59 (PDT)

hello to Wade Lawson i've just seen your message to Tom Dawson, i'm asuming thats Reuben John and Alma's brother i have passed on the message to my aunty Margaretand Reuben. they will see them tonight at the hal where they go dancing.
angela
Seaham, - Monday, August 13, 2007 at 15:00:37 (PDT)

Hello lorna stokes, my husband apparantly knew the surname conlan from Westlea, his name was Tom, also a conlan went to live in the states, he married a german girl. Hope this helps you a little bit. Dont know if it was you that left a message for con vickers, my husband would love to hear from him, a very old friend.
maureen
farnborough, hampshire - Monday, August 13, 2007 at 14:59:47 (PDT)

John could you send your email address for Dougie Robson. Sadie Mason
John Rochester
- Saturday, August 11, 2007 at 15:33:52 (PDT)

Just wanted to point out that the Family History Group meet at Seaham library on a Wednesday morning not afternoon. Carol had the right day but the wrong time. The library closes on a Wednesday afternoon, at 12.30. So if you turn up after then you'll be locked out! I'm not being a know it all here though. I'm a library assistant at the library and a member of the family history group. Can I add to what Carol already said and say anyone who is researching their family history would be well advised to try the FH group as they have a lot of resources and also other intresting local history information. Ta
Helen
- Saturday, August 11, 2007 at 14:04:36 (PDT)

Terry the tony rochester you know lived with his grandma in Dawdon cres she used to run the bookies next to the Dawdon hotel,i know because i knocked about with him for years he know lives at grangetown with his 2nd wife karen.He has 2 children a boy and a girl the boys name is john and the girl is adell.His 1st wife was called avril she passed away about 1980-81 she was a nurse.He also had family living in fox street called billy and connie infact i think they still live there.Tony lived the same side of the cres as chalkie black.I remember your grandad and granma and your aunty Barbara she married my mate Tony Davison(sadly he has passed away also).
bandit
sunderland, - Saturday, August 11, 2007 at 14:03:20 (PDT)

looking for johhny and may workman, lived in peterlee in the 70s, they scottish.anybody know.
popeye
yorks, - Saturday, August 11, 2007 at 14:01:50 (PDT)

is there anyone in seaham harbour with the surname CONLON doing research on charles laughtons mother , the film actor he,s mother came from seaham harbour , her parents had the CASTLEREIGH HOTEL they went bankrupt is it still there ?she was irish catholic, i have conlons in my family tree on my mothers side
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Saturday, August 11, 2007 at 14:01:15 (PDT)

Hello from Redcliff Alberta Canada! If you know Tom Dawson say hello, I don't have an email address for him. All his friends and relatives from Canada say hello.
Wade Lawson
Redcliffe, Alberta Canada - Saturday, August 11, 2007 at 14:00:13 (PDT)

hiya terry takes me ages to answer cos am just learnin am pleased you passed your drivin test wont even try to work out how long you tried!am pleased all the barrys are ok want to send you my email adress but dont know if i can put it on this site let me know how ican contact you love me laura and kay.x
pepper
ollerton, - Saturday, August 11, 2007 at 13:59:02 (PDT)

Jupiter Hello Dougie Robson, I've asked the editor to send you my email address, I hope this works and we can get in touch again after all these years, in the mean time I hope you are well. Best Wishes, John Rochester.
John Rochester
Selby, N.Yorks UK - Tuesday, August 07, 2007 at 15:40:18 (PDT)

Anybody know the whereabouts of john robson. He served his apprenticeship at Seaham docks and then went to work at the dawdon pit. He used to live in one of the the streets behind Princess Road.
john brennan
Hong Kong - Tuesday, August 07, 2007 at 15:34:19 (PDT)

Hiya everyone, Pam, I can also remember my mum mentioning a Florence Kirby, but I will have to do a bit of research to see where that fits in. With regard to Rutherfords Buildings, we took a trip to Seaham Harbour today, and I went to the library. The librarian was great, and brought out a file of old maps, but there was no mention of Rutherford's Buildings. Just as I was about to say thanks anyway, a lady called Chris walked in, who is a member of the Seaham Historical Society. She instantly knew where it had been. You know the clock tower with the plinth around, next to Drive 2 Data, which used to be the Noah's Ark mentioned in the censuses, well that clock tower stands on the site of Rutherford's Buildings. It was a tenement block, which must have been commercial as she has access to a photo on her computer of Rutherford's Buildings showing the shop fronts and names on them. Now was that luck, coincidence, or was it my ancestors at work? I'll leave you to make a choice. She is going to send the picture to me by email. By the way the Society meets in the library on Wednesday afternoons. They have access! to a huge number of photos of Seaham, and it costs only £5 to join. I'm in. Hope this is helpful.
Carol Weaver
Carlisle, - Tuesday, August 07, 2007 at 15:33:32 (PDT)

Terry McKenna, sorry but I can't remember you in Dawdon Cres., I do remember Tony Rochester as we were about the same age but were not related. I lived in No. 56 which is on the bottom right side of the Cres. towards what was the Dawdon Hotel, the only family I can remember in No. 58 were the Lloyds. Sorry again but I didn't know your aunt either. John Rochester.
john rochester
selby, north yorks - Tuesday, August 07, 2007 at 15:31:01 (PDT)

hiya terry get us typin when we used to pullin pints eh! mamas fine dont no if u no she had accident and hurt her head dont worry it hasnt affected her shes still nuts! how is karen is she still courtin? is debbie still with norman i hope so duno if i can put my email address on this site so i will ring engies and leave it behind bar 4 you its great 2 hear from you marra.x
pepper
ollerton, - Tuesday, August 07, 2007 at 15:29:23 (PDT)

hi pepper its terry here hope youre keeping ok i often visit the guestbook got a shock when i saw youre message, barry and baby barry are doing fine, ive just passed my driving test at long last, theres no holding me down now ive seen youre mam quite a few times latley she looks really well you will have to send me youre e mail address so i can keep in touch lots of love terry and the two barrys
terry Mckenna
- Saturday, August 04, 2007 at 15:22:56 (PDT)

Is there a moira swan who was a good friend to my mam, noreen fraser. it would be great get you in touch and catch up.
tracy murray
newbury, berks - Saturday, August 04, 2007 at 15:21:55 (PDT)

hiya terry mckenna its pepper how are you? av just cum across this site and couldnt believe it when i saw your name! hows bass and baby barry?
pepper
ollerton, nottingham - Thursday, August 02, 2007 at 15:19:10 (PDT)

Hi Pat: my uncle John watson - his brother was called Thomas (Tot), Isabel and Joan. i asked my sister and she said our family never lived in Dawdon, just parkside and bethune ave. i am going to ask about the other watsons you mentioned though - you never know!
joan farn watkinson
- Thursday, August 02, 2007 at 15:17:55 (PDT)

Hi Carol. I have been trying to find any info on my grandad, John Watson, he married Florence Kirby in 1926. She died in 1930 and he married Winifred Godfrey.Do you think they could be the same people you are looking for? Pat
pat
eastbourne, - Thursday, August 02, 2007 at 15:17:05 (PDT)

angela. thanks for replying to my request. it must be fifty years since i last saw joe and he was walking his greyhounds then.there was a lot of people had greyhounds.in seaham them days. and lots of people used to keep pigoens. i remember a lad donaldson who had them,and they nick named him pigoen donaldson.nice to see joe chalton still going well ...popeye.
popeye
yorks, - Tuesday, July 31, 2007 at 15:54:49 (PDT)

I remember well Tim, the black labrador that Mr Sanderson the park keeper had, and it used to do the same thing to anything that moved. It moved around the bowling green area like a stealth ninja on winalot viagra, tracking legs, pushchairs, bowls, crisp packets, anything ! His main love interest was aged bowlers, and must admit we cracked up many a time at the looks on their faces at a sudden "bending to bowl back attack". Sometimes took quite a number of other players to disuade him his romantic interludes.
Geordie Wood
Seaham, - Tuesday, July 31, 2007 at 15:53:44 (PDT)

Where were Rutherford's Buildings? Hello, Does anyone know where Rutherford's Buildings were? My great-grandpa, Hailes Harrison Wilkinson, was listed in Kelly's Directory for 1914 as a shopkeeper at 2 Rutherford's Buildings, as well as being listed as a confectioner at 58 California Street (a colliery house). His daughter, my grandma Alice Ethel Wilkinson, married an Italian called Alfredo Efisio Venucci, a master confectioner, although he changed his name to Alfred Richardson before they were married in 1913. My father, Alice's son Hales Alfred Richardson, was born at 58 California Street, although Alice's address was given as 2 Rutherford's Buildings, so I assume that Alice and Alfredo/Alfred were running the shop. In addition, I have found entries for a John Richardson who was running the Stamp Office (presumably post office) in 1914 at Rutherford's Buildings, although it doesn't say what number. He was also a shipping agent, shipowner and all sorts of other things. The Seaham Observer also operated from Rutherford's Buildings. There were also a couple of bu! tchers and several insurance agents at Rutherford's Buildings, so I think that it is fairly certain that they were commercial buildings with some living accommodation. One of the Insurance agents was operating from Lady Londonderry's Office, so maybe Rutherford's Buildings were sited near to that. Different subject: grandma's sister, Elizabeth Ann Wilkinson, married Robert Rochester from William Street, in 1915, and I am now in touch with their grandson, my 2nd cousin Bob Rochester in Kent, if anyone has a family interest and wants to be put in touch. And hello to Pam Moore from New Ollerton, my birthplace. My dad and mum went to Notts from Durham in 1940, and lived at 24 Sycamore Road until they passed away in 1985 and 2005, respectively. I regularly come back to see the rest of my family. I am planning a day trip to Seaham within the next 2 weeks to try to find out more about my dad's home town, and his family if possible. Have you been away from Seaham for a long time? Different subject: I hope that this will be helpful for anyone interested in Seaham history. There are certain directories online at www.historicaldirectories.org, if anyone wants to search. It was a project by Leicester University, and I think that the funding ran out, but there is still a huge amount of useful info from the 1800s on. Cheers,
Carol Weaver
- Tuesday, July 31, 2007 at 15:52:40 (PDT)

Hello, I was interested in the name Kirby. My dad (Hales Alfred Richardson, although his dad was an Italian who changed his name to Richardson, so it isn't really the family name)was born at Seaham Harbour in 1913, and I remember the name Kirby being mentioned when I was younger, as one of the ladies of the family had married a Kirby, Johnny Kirby I think. He was quite well off from what was said, and they moved away from Seaham. The next family names back from mum and dad are Wilkinson, Watson, Millington and Barnett. I'm not sure which family married into the Kirbys. Does this ring a bell with anyone? Cheers. Carol Weaver.
Carol Weaver
Carlisle, - Tuesday, July 31, 2007 at 15:51:37 (PDT)

FAO Joan Farn Watkinson....... Hi Joan the names you mention are all in my family. I have a cousin John Watson who worked at Dawdon his brothers and sisters are Steven Dianne Leslie and Joan. I last visited in 1995 and I have lost touch since then I would love to find them. To the older guys reading this my Uncle was known as Taffy Watson he married Jenny Spurr from Parkside any body know where they are now ? Thanks
Judy C
Alliston, - Tuesday, July 31, 2007 at 15:50:23 (PDT)

FAO POPEYE you were asking about Joe Charlton who kept greyhounds, he used to live in cedar crescent but when they pulled down that street to put up new houses,he moved onto parkside crescent. See him still walking his dogs daily
Angela Kirby
Seaham, - Sunday, July 29, 2007 at 15:44:00 (PDT)

Pat: My mothers maiden name was Watson. My uncle is called John Watson and so was my grandad. i am going ask my aunt if they ever lived in that street you mentioned. I think my uncle john worked at Dawdon pit and my granda at Seaham Colliery but i am not 100% sure. i will find out.
joan farn watkinson
mission, - Sunday, July 29, 2007 at 15:42:53 (PDT)

fao. ron do ron ron masters , got into stevenage and out was not reconized by the border guards ,also where were yu, i waited under the clock from 12/ 3pm had my identity card AND CORNED BEEF with me, sat playing my spoons to pass time and made money from passers by !!!!! Nice place stevenage I,ll be back
lorna stokes
scarborough, north yorks - Sunday, July 29, 2007 at 15:41:20 (PDT)

Does anybody remember the black labrador which used to hump the small children queuing for the Cosy cinema Saturday morning matinee. It took me until I attained my eighteenth birthday before I realized this was not real sex.
john brennan
hong kong, China Sar - Thursday, July 26, 2007 at 16:15:29 (PDT)

fao. diane allen, i knew a allen family at houghton-le spring ronnie, lionel, albert and they had a sister, cannot remember her name ,my friend and i met them at the tanner hop in south hetton 1957/58 thats all i remember as i left the area in 1958
lorna stokes
scarborough, north yorks - Thursday, July 26, 2007 at 15:49:56 (PDT)

Hello terry mckenna, just wandered if you know my husband frankie rafferty, had brothers johnny and peter, sisters patsy married to leo groark and betty who married jacky dent, he does know some mckennas. Regards m.rafferty
maureen rafferty
farnborough, yorks - Thursday, July 26, 2007 at 15:48:37 (PDT)

does anyone remeber a joe charlton he used to have a large garden. where he kept greyhounds and pigeons in the 60s.
popeye
yorks - Thursday, July 26, 2007 at 15:47:43 (PDT)

FAO Terry McKenna. Hi Terry ... I knew your Aunt Barbara, we were related somehow .. second cousins or summat. As youngsters we knocked about in the Crescent, then as teenagers we sorta drifted apart. If I remember correctly she married a Tony Davidson from Deneside, who I heave heard is no longer with us. I don't remember Winnie tho .. but I must have met her at some time as I spent a hell of a lot of time following Babs around lol.
Ray Scollen
Drifield, East Yorkshire - Thursday, July 26, 2007 at 15:46:55 (PDT)

Is their any chance of being put in contact with My friend from way back in the sixties John Rochester He sent this Message to the Guest Book? "Hello Dougie Robson i've just found this site and seen your name when looking through the guest book. We went to St. Mary Magdelens school together in the 50's then I went to Camden Square 61-66. We met up again when we both started our apprenticeships, you at Dawdon and me at the Vane Tempest until my family moved to Yorkshire in 69. I lived in Dawdon Cres. 53-69 and was also good friends with Ian Deighton, but haven't seen him since I moved. I think the guestbook is a great idea and recognised a lot of names and places, some that had slipped my memory. Thanks to all involved in recapturing my youth." John Rochester Selby, N Yorks.
Dougie Robson
St Austell, Cornwall UK - Sunday, July 22, 2007 at 15:22:48 (PDT)

hi john rochester i can vaguely remember the rochester family in dawdon crescent as i lived at no 58 then moved into my grans house at no7 later her name was nan reay, and bob reay my mams name is winnie she also had a sister named barbara if i remember rightly did you have a brother called tony or was it you who had a thing for my auntie barbara did you live in the top of the left hand culdesac terry mckenna
terry Mckenna
- Sunday, July 22, 2007 at 15:16:30 (PDT)

Just wanted to say"Hello" to any of the Copeland family that used to live in Corcyra St, Clive Todd that used to live at the bottom of Church St, Cedric Huitson who Parents had the pub near to the post office.To all the old members of the methodist church in Church St. I remember going to the dances they used to have, with my parents Eric and Bessie Pike and my brother Ian.I live on the Gold Coast of Australia now but remember Seaham with fond memories.Regards to all your readers this is a wonderful website, From Ann Hansen
Ann Hanson
Banora Point, NSW - Sunday, July 22, 2007 at 15:15:12 (PDT)

Does anyone remember John Watson from Longnewton Street. What pit did he work in does anyone remember?
pat
eastbourne, - Sunday, July 22, 2007 at 15:13:37 (PDT)

I am speaking on behalf of my sister in law. She wanted to say a very big thank you to all the people that were in park lane sunderland when her husband collapsed, they included 1 boy, 3 girls(maybe students) who were very kind and stayed until the paramedics arrived, a gentleman and also another lady. My sister in law would like to thank you all so very very much and to say that her husband is now ok. Thank you once again for being so kind and considerate.
maureen rafferty
farnborough, - Wednesday, July 18, 2007 at 15:01:57 (PDT)

regarding the pit pond i think it opened around about 1947 as before that it was full of fish and weeds charmaine walsh and brian phelps trained at the pit pond for the 1960 olympics as mant a time we would be sat at the dirty end of the baths having our last fag before going down the pit when they would walk past on their way to the pond cheers
Harry hunter
Redcar, - Wednesday, July 18, 2007 at 15:00:30 (PDT)

i miss my uncle keith, we used to have such a good laff, i will neva 4get you, xxx
Kylie
Newcastle on Tyne - Wednesday, July 18, 2007 at 14:58:08 (PDT)

hi brian greenfingers my mams name was winnie reay she lived in dawdon crescent but she played football plenty when she was young she was a bit of a tomboy but she was a good looking woman and still is as someone commented earlier she did work in the nack canteen my father was a deputy at the nack his name was norman mckenna he sadly passed away 5 years ago terry mckenna
TERRY MCKENNA
Seaham , - Sunday, July 15, 2007 at 15:43:29 (PDT)

hi dorothy mackay i can remember you in beech crescent you lived next door to my aunty moira and uncle arty noble my mam is winnie reay, ime now living with one of your neils best mates bass newton we had a little boy nearly four now and he is a pleasure hope you and your family are ok , how is your mam dolly its afew years since i last spoke to her in sylvias at the harbour bass says take care, terry mckenna
TERRY MCKENNA
Seaham , - Sunday, July 15, 2007 at 15:42:44 (PDT)

Hello Dougie Robson i've just found this site and seen your name when looking through the guest book. We went to St. Mary Magdelens school together in the 50's then I went to Camden Square 61-66. We met up again when we both started our apprenticeships, you at Dawdon and me at the Vane Tempest until my family moved to Yorkshire in 69. I lived in Dawdon Cres. 53-69 and was also good friends with Ian Deighton, but haven't seen him since I moved. I think the guestbook is a great idea and recognised a lot of names and places, some that had slipped my memory. Thanks to all involved in recapturing my youth. John Rochester Selby, N Yorks.
John Rochester
Selby, N.Yorks - Sunday, July 15, 2007 at 15:41:39 (PDT)

to john howe. i do not know of your father but, my great grandmothers family has the name howe in her family tree. her name was mable cole, her sister is violet cole who i think married a howe. that is all i know to date.
tracey murray
newbury, berks - Sunday, July 15, 2007 at 15:40:11 (PDT)

to Pam Moore. My grandparents lived at 7a longnewton street. they lived there from around 1971.
tracey murray
newbury, berks - Sunday, July 15, 2007 at 15:39:08 (PDT)

i used to swim at dawdon pit pond every week. when i think back it was pretty gross! i remember you couldnt get a membership unless you could swim a full length while the man held a wooden pole incase you had to grab hold. did anyone actually ever see the bottom of the pond. last time i was in Seaham it was gone and there were fancy flats on it. (I think). good memories.
Joan (Farn) Watkinson
mission, b - Sunday, July 15, 2007 at 15:38:09 (PDT)

hi margaret tennick, its great to hear from you. yes i do remember quite clearly my dad catching us smoking while he was working on a roof and many times ive relayed that tale to friends and family!! i believe we can exchange email addresses via this website without having to divulge it through a message. it would be great to reminis and catch up on the past 30 years or so.take care sharron
Sharron Meek
doncaster, south yorkshire - Sunday, July 15, 2007 at 15:36:54 (PDT)

Hi. The message I addressed to Tracey was accredited to Pam Moore but it was in fact from me, Pat from Eastbourne. Thank you for telling me about the pit pond, I have few memories from those holidays so long ago. I have been trying to trace family for my tree so any memories people have of Longnewton Street I would be pleased to hear.
Pat
eastbourne, Sussex - Sunday, July 15, 2007 at 15:35:21 (PDT)

My Nan was from Seaham and had fond memories of the town after moving down South when only 14. I made a pilgramage there once whilst staying in Newcastle and it's nice to see the community buzzing. I've been doing a bit of family research and discovered one of her brothers was John Bell who was in the Home Guard and sadly passed away when the Germans dropped a mine on Viceroy Street. I found out his wife was called Elizabeth but have no idea if they had kids. I'm also after any leads on Gladys, Jane or Lily Bell or anything else relating to Thomas and Isabella Bell from the early 1900's. Keep up the good work. All the best.
Loafer
Woking, - Sunday, July 15, 2007 at 15:34:20 (PDT)

Hi To Pam Moore the swimming pool would be Dawdon Colliery pit pond as it was commonly known. It had one ,three & five metre diving boards which were up to olympic standard. I learned how to play water polo there with cant remember his name now. Brian Phelps used to train at the pool for the 1962 ish olypics. Had some great times @ the pond.
John Spencer
Portsmouth, Hampshire - Monday, July 09, 2007 at 15:34:33 (PDT)

hello again to pam moore read your bit about going to swimming gala it was at dawdon pit pond my inlaws lived in longnewton st. ill give you a clue who iam i live not far from your foster and gordon and know then well no more clues
coalhewer
- Monday, July 09, 2007 at 15:33:16 (PDT)

hi sharron watson (meeks)ov doncaster who lived opposite me in beech cres its all your fault that i smoke do u remember your dad catching us when he was on the roof love to hear from u margaret tennick hello sister dorothy mckay
margaretr tennick
hornchurch, - Sunday, July 08, 2007 at 15:04:19 (PDT)

Hi Tracey. When did your family live in Longnewton Street,my grandparents lived at no 17 until the 1970s. I remember going to visit them twice in the 1960s. My grandad worked as a miner but I do not remember which mine. I remember one day, late afternoon he took us for a short walk to an outdoor swimming pool and we watched a synchronised swimming team. I would be interested to know where that was and if it is still there. I remember there were stone or concrete steps all round to form seating. Realname: Pat
Pam Moore
eastbourne, - Sunday, July 08, 2007 at 15:02:55 (PDT)

to coalhewer ,,, sorry you will have to tell me ,, i am trying to work it all out , with not much success ,, please tell me
Pam Moore
New Ollerton, - Sunday, July 08, 2007 at 15:01:57 (PDT)

rita mortimer.did your husband tom live in grantham ave as a boy.i had a school friend of that name1939ish then he moved near to deneside school& I to ivy ave.other names from that time& street. bob wilkinson.uncle had the butchers& fish shop on the avenue bottom shops & allen batey,, funny how a name or word can bring back memories from nearly 70 yrs ago.the tom i knew had i believe 2 sisters but the memory is,nt that clear ron masters
r masters
Stevenage, - Thursday, July 05, 2007 at 00:35:30 (PDT)

Hi coalhewer if your dad was peter ray that played darts and dommino,s for yorkhouse i knew him well because i also played for them as did my dad.He was also on the committee and coned us rotten,i remember when he said there was going to be this diana doors look a like stripper on and it turned out to be a 40 stone shrek look alike,he has this laugh like muttley.John spence yes i know you and your brother-in-law alan,plus dek and doris rowntree and most of the mob from that part of malvern.I used to go around with joe turnbull who was johny macado,s brother in law they were all related.There was also David if i remember corectly and arty.I also knocked about with the late jim savage,gene and den willis,ray anderson,barney,thrip there was loads of us we all played on the dump some even ended up playing profesional like freddy guy and his brothers.
bandit 10
Sunderland, - Thursday, July 05, 2007 at 00:34:33 (PDT)

j cookland.my homeground was deneside,eastlea,& peterlee after marriage,south 1966,routledge,golden and scorer all names i recall from the past but also spent lot of time in murton .1 son & family in NZ,rest local.eldest caretaker heathcote in shepall.tell the locals we,re sent from N/E as missionaries. R M....P/S ED,now i,m almost housebound i would like you to know how much i & i,m sure many others appreciate the effort you put into bringing the info & memories to us exiles.long may you continue. many thanks
r masters
Stevenage, - Thursday, July 05, 2007 at 00:32:32 (PDT)

F.A.O. Cornelius Vickers, how's the weather in Palmy not as cold as the Harbour I dare say,( I miss the rip roaring fire in the Dunn Cow.)
Jim Robinson
Taupo, b o p New Zealand - Thursday, July 05, 2007 at 00:31:08 (PDT)

Hiya Con, this is your old friend frankie rafferty from seaham, sounds like your enjoying yourself with the family. I did leave a message on the site before but thought i would try again, i am very well, still living in farnborough have been for 37 years now. We are going up north on 5th July, which would have been johnnys(me brother) birthday, but he died last september. We are up for my sisters 80th birthday, we will give everybody your regards. Hope to hear from you soon. Take care Frankie
Maureen Rafferty
farnborough, - Thursday, July 05, 2007 at 00:29:50 (PDT)

Hi Derek, I was cub leader at 5th Seaham in the late 50s & Tom, my husband, was scout leader there.I recognise your name. We now live in Louth in Lincolnshire.
rita mortimer
louth, lincs - Saturday, June 30, 2007 at 14:59:03 (PDT)

Hello R Masters. I don't think you will know me, but you may know the family. We shifted south in the 50's to Roehampton and for the last 35 years I have lived in Stevenage. I have seen your name quite often on the site and have now got round to sending a message to you. Other names in my family are Watson, Routledge, Scorer, Brown, Golden, etc. Do these ring any bells with you. Best wishes from another Seaham exile
John cookland
shephall, stevenage - Saturday, June 30, 2007 at 14:58:04 (PDT)

I hope you dont mind me leaving a message but i am looking for relatives in the sunderland area. from which my dad came from his name was Ronald James Allen born 1938, I just wondered if you could help he had one brother and sister I think but have never met them any help would be appreciated. Thankyou.
diane allen
ashford, kent - Saturday, June 30, 2007 at 14:56:23 (PDT)

Dear Lilian - lovely to hear from you, sorry I didn't reply sooner but I have to use my daughters computer and she has been very busy. You were one of the best footballers that played on Hoys Crescent! I now have a grandson called Robert and I teach him soccer, also I have a pupil for singing lessons who has just one 2 x 2nds and 2 x 3rds in a music festival - he is from South Africa. I have sang in the cathedral out here and am still in canny voice. I built a 3 bedroom house called a Lockwood (all wood) and am getting more like John Wayne every day. I have chickens,canaries and pigeons to feed and take my daughters dog everywhere. I live in my daughter and son in law's garden, they have 4 acres of woodland. Have made quite a few friends out here but I still miss the Mill and the Roadside. Hope to hear from you again with news from the nack - I will try and have a look at the website more often now I know somebody out there remembers me. Ta ra, CON
Cornelius Vickers
Palmerston North, - Saturday, June 30, 2007 at 14:55:05 (PDT)

Reference Bandit 10 i liked your comments about the Dump. My name is John Spencer and i lived at 81 Malvern Crescent and then we moved to 81A across the road when they modernised Malvern in the late sixties early seventies. My Dad was Jack Spencer and he worked at Cliffords across the Wodden Bridge. My Brother in law Alan Mcaddo played for Deneside Rangers that was the foootie team that played on the Dump,you are right they did have to walk across the woooden Bridge to get to the dump. Mrs Guy used to make the (camp) coffee in the big urn for half time. I very fond memories of my life in Malvern Crescent. I will be visiting this christmas and new year to see my sister Margaret and brother in law Alan and also my neices. Anyone who remembers me especially Derek Rountree who i was best man for in 1968 please give me an e-mail via the Ed who has my permission ti divulge my e-mail address.
John Spencer
Portsmouth, - Saturday, June 30, 2007 at 14:53:35 (PDT)

Hi Seaham. Does anyone remember the Watson sisters, Joyce, Olive and Eileen from Longnewton Street. Maybe you knew them at school. Joyce was my mum and I am trying to find out about her life. Where she went to school or any of her friends. Her parents were John and Nellie and they attended the local chapel. If anyone remembers please leave a message.
Pat
eastbourne, - Saturday, June 30, 2007 at 14:51:59 (PDT)

bandit10 deneside rangers played on the dump alanmcadoo peter mcdowel peter ray my father plus terry mckennas mam winny used to work in the nack canteen bonny looking woman always laughing
coalhewer
- Saturday, June 30, 2007 at 14:50:51 (PDT)

Brian greenfingers i think terry,s mam belonged Dawdon not malvern cres and i dont think you can blame computers ect for the cause of Diabeteis mind they dont help either.I played football on the dump years ago aswell but i am not as old as you but have a lot of memories of malvern,queensbury, oxford nepy and Rhyton cres.Been 67 you must of played on the dump when they had the old football team.I remember them having to walk across the old wooden bridge next to what was the legion before it became the labour club{i think.I remember Harold wilson been there.I can remember terry as a lttle shirley temple type girl running around Dawdon Cres.
bandit10
Sunderland, - Tuesday, June 26, 2007 at 15:43:51 (PDT)

hi seaham. i spent a lot of my early years there with my grandparents, jack and norrie fraser. grandad worked in dawdon pit and nana was a dinner lady at dawdon school. my mam and aunty (noreen and jaqueline, born 40 & 44) went to camden square. they first lived in dalton-le-dale and then malcolm st. they also lived in longnewton st and then finally in the minors cottages by the pit. grandad has long since gone, but it wud be great if anyone new of them and my mam that i can pass on. they are great memories of seaham, the pit pond, the jazz band parades etc. this was all 35 years ago. please contact
tracey murray
newbury, - Tuesday, June 26, 2007 at 15:42:28 (PDT)

Hi, anyone out there remember me ? I went to the SMS school in the mid 50's. I was also with 5th seaham scouts for a lot of years. Love to hear from anybody. derek
derek stockton
billingham, - Monday, June 25, 2007 at 15:52:20 (PDT)

My grandad was James BRASS or Merrington. I have an only cousin in Durham City, but wondered if I could shake the family tree a bit, and see who fell out. By the way how's the Lawn Bowling in Seaham? TaTaForNow, Pat
Patricia Rose
Fitzroy Harbour, Ontario Canada - Monday, June 25, 2007 at 15:51:21 (PDT)

fao. r masters. i know its upmarket the kids a banker ,like her ma can count her mazoola!!!she keeps telling me no mouth organ, trys her best to control me ,her friends luv it when i appear ,its what yu call character , hubbys tried it for years to no avail , been up to bonnie scotland and tried to bribe the coach driver to do a detour on the a19 no chance i was so near yet so far away, ask about treatment ZALODEX every 3mnths, it works .yu should never tell ME where yu whole out , i might if time, hunt yu down AND WALTER D. RILEY WHERE AR YU, STILL RACKING YER BRAIN ? another clue next month, also stephen morris still waiting , judy c. ru ok ? are they any relatives from seaham harbour called FITZSIMMONS MY AUNT MARRIED A EDWARD FITZSIMMONS IN THE 30,S. you should see the northeast now what a change for the best, if mum and dad could see it know, they wouldn,t believe the changes, all good .
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Monday, June 25, 2007 at 15:50:05 (PDT)

Hi Terry Mckenna. Thankyou for your comment. I am exactly the same age as your Mum. If she had lived in Malvern Cresent as a girl I would maybe have known her. I expect your Mum takes metformin for diabetus? I do not sit down much, I'm posting this message at 6am. I'm always in the garden growing something in the daytime and when I was a kid played footy on the dump. I bet your Mum can tell you some great stories from the 50s? and much more interesting than computer-age kids.
Brian Greenfingers
- Monday, June 25, 2007 at 15:48:18 (PDT)

TO vin maratty(sunderland): Jim Duggan would like your email address. Include it in a Guestbook entry and we will forward it to him. It will not appear on the Guestbook.
Ed Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham - Saturday, June 23, 2007 at 15:42:28 (PDT)

Geoff Creese: we have a request for your email address from Margaret. Please send to Guestbbok in the normal way if you wish it to be passed on. It will not appear on the Guestbook.
Ed Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham - Saturday, June 23, 2007 at 15:39:31 (PDT)

Dear Br Thomas. I replyed to your 11 June, but it has not been entered in the Guestbook, I dont know if I missed out jupiter or the highers above found it to nasty to print. Yours Eric-the-red.
E Leighton
Seaham , - Saturday, June 23, 2007 at 15:34:18 (PDT)

Visited last year, such a nice place. Thanks to everyone for a great trip!
Will Door
- Saturday, June 23, 2007 at 15:33:35 (PDT)

hi brian greenfingers your comment about kids getting diabeteis you blamed nintendo what about people like you and me reading and writing into this guestbook sitting on our rumps. sometimes it comes with age aswell my mother is 67 and has just recently become a diabetic and b not by sitting on her but on a computer ok
terry mckenna
Seaham , - Saturday, June 23, 2007 at 15:32:58 (PDT)

lorna,there,s no colliery houses & very few council houses in chesham,its a bit up market to murton.suggest you change the tesco bag for a Harrods & the corned beef for tin of luncheon tongues,if you ever decide to stop in sunny stevenage i,ll treat you & your better half to a meal at the chequers,you,ve kept me going with memories of the G,olden days, enjoy your hols with the family,,i,ll try to arrange some sun for you,,a treatment assessment for me on 26/6 then who knows,i may be fit enough to run down the dene to the Times & all the way to the knack again .R M
r masters
Stevenage, - Saturday, June 23, 2007 at 15:32:06 (PDT)

I am hoping that a lady called Helen reads this email in relation to the Howe Family Tree. I have had problems with my computer and lost all my data. I recall she mentioned the Moorsley area. If anyone else out there could be related to me please email, i entered a message Jan 2007. Hope to hear soon. John Howe
John Howe
canberra, - Saturday, June 23, 2007 at 15:30:58 (PDT)

hi if anyone on this site has a valid email address for amanda dickinson please forward it i urgently need to get in touch i'm an old friend thank you
ian birks
Peterlee, - Saturday, June 23, 2007 at 15:29:34 (PDT)

fao. r masters the border guards won,t reconize me , as ill have a gas mask on , carrying a tesco carrier bag with a tin of corned beef (my favourite weapon )in case of attack, used this method for years , it works and no muton coal as its like black gold , only awarded for special occasions,good news for my hubby, always a light at the end of the tunnel, ref. stevenage just been picked up there onwards to chesham, if you see a tall good looking blonde, with a louis vuitton bag , THATS NOT ME !!!!!!! been told to behave myself, I DON,T THINK SO , and leave my mouth organ at home , good luck . fao. steven morris have you been to the vic yet ? ED: Lorna it's jupitEr not jupitor.
lorna stokes
scarborough, uk - Sunday, June 17, 2007 at 15:17:16 (PDT)

Hello Linda,Yes my mam and dad had the Duke of Wellington,I didnt go to South Africa but my friend Karen Yare did shes still there.I remember the chutes at Doggarts,I worked in the office with Norma Smart and Ivy Heavisides who sadly died a few years ago.I see Tommy Gale sometimes wonder what happened to Charlie Carmichael,theres loads of names I remember.I went to work at Mackays about 8 years ago and when I had a look upstairs the office was still the same and the tea room and Mr Horns office.Happy Days.Lynn
Lynn
Seaham , - Sunday, June 17, 2007 at 15:10:23 (PDT)

Hello, Lynne Edwards,I remember you from Doggarts. Didnt you spend some time in South Africa and your family had the Duke? I remember Emma Murrish, Valerie ( cant remember her surname), Dorothy Bainbridge, Katy Mather, Edna Richardson,Katrina (cant remember her surname),Brenda Cattermole and a blonde girl called Smart, Christine Haswell-who introduced me to my husband-and Edward Bacon who died at an early age.Do you remember the air shuttle used to transfer cash. Hope you are well.
Linda Maratty nee Geary
Sunderland, UK - Saturday, June 16, 2007 at 16:38:27 (PDT)

I have been nostalgic lately and I'm trying to contact a very special friend Ann Sill of Seaham, County Durham. Last had contact between 1968 and 1970 and she studied for a BA at Leeds Art College. As a fanatical Spurs supporter, I used to travel to Sunderland, Roker Park when we met with friends.
Emmanuel J. Menahem
Hendon, London UK - Saturday, June 16, 2007 at 16:37:14 (PDT)

FAO lorna stokes,should have no trouble getting into stevenage in july,ive told the border guards you,re a missionary but you,ll have to grease their palms with leek pasty, leave the lump of coal at home,my head still hurts from the last lump you chucked & i lost my singing voice years ago,,,R.M...P/S where in stevenage.
r masters
Stevenage, - Saturday, June 16, 2007 at 16:29:15 (PDT)

i left dawdon in 1961 after1 year on bank and 10 years down dawdon pit when the wife and i go on holiday i alway look out for seaham folk anyway last year we were in benidorm in our regular watering hole the cheap and cheerfull where we met tom and wyn kennendy lovely people anyway it brought back memories seemingly tom and i had worked in the seams but had,nt met we knew a lot of the same blokes HARRY CURTIS TOMMY BAMBROUGH GEORDIE DAVISON JOE DEFTY TOMMY READ ERNIE TAYLOR AND LOADS OF OTHERS TO MANY TO MENTION IF ANYBODY KNOWS TOM AND HIS WIFE WYN PASS ON MY REGARDS AND THEY ARE KEEPING WELL IS TOM STILL GOING TO DENESIDE CLUB THATS IT REGARDS TO ALL AT SEAHAM
harry hunter
redcar, Yorks - Saturday, June 16, 2007 at 16:28:00 (PDT)

Hello, Lynn Edwards. I remember you well. Didnt you spend some time in South Africa and your Dad ran the Duke of Wellington.I worked with Emma Murrish, Valerie Johnson, Dorothy Bainbridge, Brenda Cattermole,Chris Haswell (who introduced me to my husband),Katy Mather, Ivy Heavisides,Katrina from the shoe dept, Edward Bacon who died at an early age. Also Joan from Parkside, Jaqueline, Carol (I cant remember their surnames). Do you remember the funny air shuttle used to transport cash and the night out we had at Houghton Buffs when Joan from Parkside got tipsy and took the mickey out of one of the musicians because "he had a crown topper on". It was a great job and store. Hope you are well.
linda geary
Sunderland, England - Saturday, June 16, 2007 at 16:26:15 (PDT)

hi vin. there are no signs of any footie being played down here.if you want to get away from football go and watch brighton play.have a bet on the black moggies tho.do you still do your running . i still do . got to keep on the move you no . say hello to family .
mick maratty
Sussex - Saturday, June 16, 2007 at 16:24:18 (PDT)

Hello Linda Marratty nee Geary,I remember you at Doggarts,My name was Lynn Edwards,I worked there from 1967 to 1971,on the hardware and in the office.Some great memories.
Lynn
Seaham , durham - Tuesday, June 12, 2007 at 14:49:33 (PDT)

hi sharon yes i do have a sister margaret and you probably dont remember me much as i let home in 1970 and only visited in the summer whereas margaret stayed till she was 18
dorothy mckay
swineshead, boston lincs - Tuesday, June 12, 2007 at 14:48:38 (PDT)

Hi Eric, the web master has my address, and he can give it to anyone who requests it. I have a good scheme for getting rid of spam or AOL does. I was in the northeast for a family gathering on the weekend of the first, and made it to the lodge on Thursday night; you were missed due to the lack of your attendance. Still, all had a good night, and I even had a chance to speak to Michael Thorpe. As you know he is one of our longest standing members, and always a pleasure to talk to. Are you still getting your gatter at the Knack? I may be up north later in the year, and I would like to buy you that pint I owe you. It always was one of lifes greatest pleasures; talking to the biggest spive in town. Can you remember the Tri-Star, and my question about the Two-Star? Keep smiling, regards TOM
Tom Moreland
London, - Tuesday, June 12, 2007 at 14:46:59 (PDT)

Mick Maratty, have you got a decent football team down there yet. Hope all the family are keeping OK, brother Vin
vin maratty
Sunderland, Tyne & Wear - Tuesday, June 12, 2007 at 14:45:39 (PDT)

Hi carol Jobson its me Roslyn Mary is doing realy fine next time your in seaham let us know then you can come and see us me mam would love to see you all again. Our Lynne is going to be a nana as our Lucy is pregnant she is due the beginning of December. Keep in touch love hope your all keeping well bye for now love Roslyn (Rosly could you please use Jupiter)
Roslyn Williams
Seaham , - Monday, June 11, 2007 at 16:09:00 (PDT)

Margaret.Canada. Re Olive,.Thank you for your message, acknowledged briefly . As e-mail addresses are not divulged on the Seaham Guestbook site, would you please forward your e-mail address to the webmaster with permission for him to disclose it to me. I have already done so with my address, Many thanks .Geoff.
Geoff Creese
Welford on Avon, Warwickshire - Monday, June 11, 2007 at 16:06:51 (PDT)

hi dorothy mckay I used to live opposite you in beech crescent, number 90 and although my memories of you are vague, i was very good friends with who i believe to be your sister margaret. if this is correct please say hello to margaret, it would be great to hear from her (please use Jupiter)
sharron meek
doncaster, - Monday, June 11, 2007 at 16:05:53 (PDT)

FAO. WALTER RILEY, FLUSHED YOU OUT , YES PASTYS WERE MADE ON THE COAL OVEN SHELF, CORNED BEEF AND LEEK, CHEESE AND ONION, COOL IT OFF AND CUT INTO SQUARES, I HAVE COPYRIGHT ON THESE !!!! YOU WERE LUCKY TO HAVE HOT WATER WE HAD TO BOIL THE BIG KETTLE FOR EVERYTHING, HOW OUR MOTHERS MANAGED I DON,T KNOW , NO FRIDGE,EVERYTHING WAS BAKED FRESH, CUSTARD TARTS, APPLE PIE, NED CAKES, YOU KNEW WHAT WAS COMING EVERYDAY, BREAD EVERY OTHER DAY NO PRESERVITIVES IN OUR FOOD , ONLY THING ELECTRIC WAS THE SHILLING IN THE METER FOR THE LIGHT , STILL GOT MUMS FLAT IRON AS A DOOR STOP, WE GOT A BAKERLITE VALVE WIRELESS EVENTUALLY WHICH I STILL HAVE AND WORKS, THE TONE IS LOVELY. WASHING DAY WAS HELL IN WINTER WET CLOTHES AND SHEETS SMACKING YOU IN THE FACE, UP THERE UNTIL DRY THEN DOWN TO IRON, THEN BACK UP TO AIR MON/FRI, THEN LET COAL FIRE GO OUT, CLEAN THE FLU, WHITEWASH THE BACK CLEAN THE FENDER , LIGHT THE FIRE AGAIN FOR THE WEEK , WHITEWASH THE DOORSTEP AS WELL, OUR EN! TERTAINMENT WAS DAD PLAYING CONCERTINA, OR SINGING OR PLAYING MOUTH ORGAN, NO WONDER I GOT A JOB AT THE REX,GOT ME OUT OF THE HOUSE , FILL THE COAL BUCKET BEFORE YOU WENT TO BED, KEEP TELLING HUBBY HOW LUCKY HE IS MEETING ME !!! YOU CAN,T REMEMBER ME, GIVEN YOU 3 CLUES, CAN KEEP THIS UP FOR YEARS WALTER , ASK YOURSELF HOW I REMEMBER YOU AND YOU DON,T REMEMBER ME, EH !! DO YOU STILL LIKE VINEGAR ? NANDO,S WELLFIELD, JONNYS MORE CLUES NEXT MONTH.
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Monday, June 11, 2007 at 16:04:26 (PDT)

Re Thomas Moreland London- just to see if he is still alive, as I cannot get thru to him on his e-mail and the cat is really missing him, nobody to talk to. see yah from Felix and him.
E Leighton
Seaham , - Monday, June 11, 2007 at 16:02:04 (PDT)

HELLO VIN AND LINDA. HOWS THE WEATHER UP THERE. BRIGHT AND SUNNY DOWN HERE. STILL OVERCAST UP THERE I BET . MAYBE WE ARE RELATED.
mick maratty
Sussex - Monday, June 11, 2007 at 16:00:38 (PDT)

hi i have just found this site and have had a lot of lovely memories revived i went to camden square school 1963-1968 my name was tennick then if any one remembers me i would love to hear from them i lived in beach cresc till 1970
dorothy mckay
Boston, lincolnshire - Saturday, June 09, 2007 at 15:32:48 (PDT)

paddy the electrition refused to repair the electric chair. on the grounds that it was a bit of a death trap.
mick maratty
Sunderland, - Saturday, June 09, 2007 at 15:31:47 (PDT)

I am researching my family tree, and wonder if anyone remembers a family called Ayre who ran a pub in Seaham.
Pat
gateshead, - Saturday, June 09, 2007 at 15:31:02 (PDT)

Hello, my name is Linda Maratty nee Geary.I used to live in Cedar Crescent in 1950-1969. I went to Dawdon school then to Camden Square until I left in 1969. I married Vincent Maratty from the wideback and had four sons. i would like to hear from old friends and school mates and Doggarts girls in the late sixties.
Linda Maratty
Sunderland, - Saturday, June 09, 2007 at 15:30:21 (PDT)

I have been trying to contact dougy robson on 'friends reunited'. If you are there dougy send an email, vin maratty
vin maratty
sunderland, - Saturday, June 09, 2007 at 15:29:29 (PDT)

I am searching for my ancestor named William Nans Murray who relocated from Ireland in about 1796 to the USA. He was an envoy to the Hague in 1798, and had a son named William who was born in Virginia in 1817. Any help is appreciated. Thanks
Patricia Murray
Ashland, Oregan USA - Saturday, June 09, 2007 at 15:28:34 (PDT)

fao Lorna . Hi Lorna you have tempted me out of hideing with the thought of a piece of your corned beef and leek pastey. I haven't tasted one for over 48 years, and if they as good as my mother used to make, your husband must be a very happy man. I always remember the time my mother made one, it was nearly the size of the oven shelf, and when it was cooked we couldn't wait for it to cool down before we could have a slice. My wife belongs the West Country, and she thinks she's a pastey artist, but I'm sorry to say the Cornish think they are the inventers of the pastey.(Made for the Cornish tin miners ) but they just can't reach the standard of the Murton pastey. Still on the subject of cooking. how on earth did our mothers manage to cook a whole Sunday dinner on a coal fire ? She could control the heat by putting a couple of roundies on first, when they were burning nicely she'd spread the heat out ,and off she'd go. and if it would get too hot th! e back boiler would start to rumble, frightening the life out of us kids, so then my Dad would turn on all the hot water taps which would by then be blowing off steam and scalding water. How did woman cope thoe days ? No electric cooker, no hoover ,no electric washing machine, no electric iron, (the temperature was deceided by spitting on it, ) even the wireless was just a brown bakerlite box with a speaker , it was supplied by Redifusion, and had three settings A B and C ,A I think was the light programme, B was the home service, and C was the favourite of us kids Radio Luxemburg . Come to think of it , the only electric used was for the light. Lorna you seem to know me well , but I have scratched my old head and still can't place you.
Walter Riley
East Anglia, - Saturday, June 09, 2007 at 15:27:24 (PDT)

Margaret , Re Olive Dickinson Many thanks for your response
Geoff Creese
Welford on Avon, Warwickshire - Saturday, June 09, 2007 at 15:25:30 (PDT)

To Elaine Dawson of Potifract,I am sorry but as far as i know we do not have anyone living in the area you mentioned but i will ask my cousins if they know of onyone living away.As far as i know all af the older members of the family all live in this area. I will get in touch again if i have any news.Both of my parents have been gone for may years. My father was the eldest of his famiy.Bye for now ,Lillian.
Lilian
Seaham , - Saturday, June 09, 2007 at 15:24:19 (PDT)

Hello all, fao Judy C nice to hear from you, did i read in one of your earlier mailings that your maiden name was BERRY. A family lived looking towards the back of the pit called BERRY, they had 2 sons 1 called ALLAN. I sometimes see him about murton. Maybe a different family. fao. Maureen Rafferty. If your relatives are Margaret,Maureen,Elizabeth and John Rafferty yes i went to school with Elizabeth and John. If this is the family my son know goes to school with John's daughter Milly (small world). until later see ya
Stephen Morris
Murton, - Thursday, June 07, 2007 at 15:47:33 (PDT)

hello pam moore still thinking who i am i lived in windermere rd from age of 12 knocked around with davie wake fichty mctomneys we all had skinheads
coalhewer
Seaham , - Thursday, June 07, 2007 at 15:46:29 (PDT)

to jimmy gilbert it was my dad who worked on the tug seaham with your dad when he was 18 years old has just passed away aged 95
David Page
busselton, Western Australia - Thursday, June 07, 2007 at 15:45:50 (PDT)

the passing away of george page aged 95 years in bunbury australia on june 2nd dad was born in seaham in 1911 lived in sophia street with the page family consisting of 9 children and two parents last of a different era while working on the tug seaham was awarded the vellum award for a gallant act trying to save a member of the crew from drowning a henry holman who did not survive this happened on 2nd feb 1930 can only imagine how cold the water was which says a lot for my dad my name is david page
david page
busselton, - Thursday, June 07, 2007 at 15:44:57 (PDT)

fao. rm. masters. glad to see you are fighting back and a new gg grandchild something to look forward to . i am coming to stevenage in july to my daughters , you will reconize me sunderland echo in one hand and tin of corned beef in the other, cold wind blowing off the sea making my famous BROTH keep well
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Thursday, June 07, 2007 at 15:43:50 (PDT)

fao. stephen morris of murton . hi stephen i would be thrilled if you could take a photo of my grandfathers memorial in murton vic. club i think it says george potts killed in action april 17th. 1917, not too sure, thinking from ole memory !!! mum moved from sea view to bevan square no. 33 with all the people from sea view and dene terr.what a luxury AN INSIDE TOILET AND BATH, hot water and c/heating and a garden, she never got on with her oven, prefered coal fire and oven , you can get my e.mail address from ed. mason , the rest of the family whats left wait, to see this plaque,and i knew a maureen scollen, don,t know if its the same person.
lorna stokes
scarborough, - Thursday, June 07, 2007 at 15:43:04 (PDT)

Hi Geoff Creese REPOST WITH YOUR EMAIL.Iknow a little about Olive, but not where she is now.
Margaret
Canada - Thursday, June 07, 2007 at 15:41:41 (PDT)

I am a working artist who was very fortunate to have visited Seaham last year and learned that there was a woman named Gina who used to buy glass collected from the beach. Can anyone put me in touch with Gina?
Linda
Sebastian, Florida USA - Tuesday, June 05, 2007 at 15:20:04 (PDT)

Hi to stephen morris from murton,we have relations in murton, mr & mrs wellburn who live in seaview walk, the mum lives in the aged miners home and the son john rafferty lives not far from clark house. The rest of the relations live in Seaham. My husband frankie worked at the knack, others at dawdon, vane tempest. We are coming up 5th july and cannot wait, i would move up but hubbie wouldnt he has been down south since 1960. Perhaps you might know some of the names i have mentioned. One year when we came up we stayed at the Village Inn and it was great and very reasonable. It would be nice to hear from you stephen maybe you might know some other names, take care from maureen
Maureen Rafferty
farnborough, Hampshire England - Tuesday, June 05, 2007 at 15:15:49 (PDT)

JUPITER I would like to ask LILLIAN who in October put a post out saying her mother was/is LIZZIE STRONG,have you got any relatives in Thurnscoe (Barnsley/Rotherham) area, I am searching for my grandads (ROBERT LAWTON DAWSON)relatives, He was born in Seaham harbour area 15 nov 1905, his mother was called Charlotte we believe he was an illegitimate child, he lived with his grandmother when we believe his mother died, he joined the BOYS BRIGADE at about 15-16 years, He later went to THURNSCOE to live with his step brother FRED STRONG, could he be any relation. if you could be a relative or know anything please email me
Elaine Dawson
Upton, PONTEFRACT, west Yorkshire - Tuesday, June 05, 2007 at 15:14:28 (PDT)

Reading Parkside girls comments on Seaham Beach brought back happy memories - yes we did have good days out, it seemed like we spent the summer holidays on the beach in those days. I remember going with the family,cutting across the scouts field across to Lord Byrons walk and down to the hall beach, then down those cut out steps (long before the new road down beach was put in)- don't think I'd have the nerve to do that now! Sandwiches flavoured with sand, drinks flavoured with the salty air and never being bored for a minute what with the rock pools, pebbles and shells - yes happy memories - shame the kids of today won't have the same. Dorothy Reay
Dorothy Hawkins (Reay)
Harrogate, - Tuesday, June 05, 2007 at 15:12:51 (PDT)

lorna stokes,weather is lousy so a leek pud would go down very well.... My forecast,is cloudy at present,but sun came thru last month ,first G/G/child,a girl,,name,, DORIS, i,m beginning to practice with a pram instead of a zimmer so the [Weather] has got to get better.i,m determined to take her to feed the ducks in the summer. R M
r masters
Stevenage, - Tuesday, June 05, 2007 at 15:11:40 (PDT)

im margaret swan i went to the sms school from 1958 to 62 i lived at seaton my friend name was pat pipe imoved to nottingham but i still go back to seaham harbour to vist my cousins
margarety swan
loughborough, leicestershire England - Tuesday, June 05, 2007 at 15:10:48 (PDT)

Have just been clearing odds and ends from grandparents house and came across this. I don't know the author, or indeed why my grandparents should have it. Perhaps you, or some of your guests may have heard of these 'characters.' SEAHAM CHARACTERS We've all heard the tale of Loppy Dick, Who followed the coal bunker, knew every trick, And Pot Pie Jack of colliery fame, Who at pot pies till he looked the same. And Wooden Legged Sally of Irish back Street, Who rolled off her wooden leg when she fell asleep, Of Pudden Scott and the likely tale, a number of pints and the peasepudden pail. Glass Alley Pudden who caught us each day, out came his alleys and we had to play' There was the language of Clays Prop Meg, If you wouldn't buy a prop or a few clays pegs. The Humpty Backed barber of local fame, Who nicked your face and heed again and again, Shoulder Deglan who worked at the 'Nack,' He called old Swallow, and so got the sack. There was Pantomime Mary who used to gan, To the silent pictures with her man, She couldn't read nor could she write, sure was a pantomine in the pictures that night. And of Abe Smith on the scavenger cart, All dressed up by Dr Neilen, a la carte, The lady in grey who lived as a recluse, For thirty years till she turned herself loose. There was General Buller and his ice cream cart, Tommy Hogger of Bottle house fame, loved a jam tart. Old More the postman of toy shop fame, With such a big nose it really was a shame. with Stumpy Miller of football fame, little sally Clough in the army game. Crowds used to gather on a Friday Neet, To see the black dentist pull out teeth. The blood, the screams, the howls , the yells, T'was better than Gaff and all its tales. The mouth organ pie eater in Dawdon Canteen, And Watty Duffy with the best hair ever seen. Jakey Willis gave us many a laugh, At his wisecracks in The Gaff. You've heard of the hunchback of Marlborough Street, Who wore his laggings day and neet. And Ond Hughie Donein, The Gaff t'was a riddle, What he used to play on his great bass fiddle. There was Bessy's Hole and Nanny Goat's Path. Gloggen Woods Lodging House what had no bath, The Penny Bazaar, The hall Flower Show, We were sure of treats if we used to go. The Jubilee Grounds, The Featherbed Rock, The Duck Yard and Terrace Clock. There was the Ball Alley too, Off which the ball used to stott, And Boozy Alley, hard to get down after a tot. None of these folkswould lay great claim to fame, But all were proud of the town and its name.
Alan Rowell
durham England - Tuesday, June 05, 2007 at 15:09:24 (PDT)

A marvellous site. Please post the following. I am trying to trace OLIVE DICKINSON..came from Seaham, whom I met in Cyprus in c Jun 1961. Olive was a schoolteacher at an Army childrens school in the Famagusta area. I was a National Service Educational Instructor at an Ordnance Depot 4 miles from Famagusta which is where we met. We remained friends following my reposting to Malta in late Sept 1961 & I visited Seaham in Aug 1962,when I stayed with Olive & her mother for a long weekend. I recall picking coal off the seashore ,& the kindness of Olive & her mother who I think lived in a modern bungalow not too far from the seafront. I believe her father may have been a miner but had died. My only other recollection is going to a dance on Saturday night . There was a relative who had a Singer Gazelle car & who took us all to a beauty spot.on the Sunday.Sadly contact was subsequently lost. She will undoubtedly have married but I only know her maiden name. Dickinson appears to be a well known surname in Seaham . Is there by any remote chance anyone who can recall Olive & more importantly be aware of her current whereabouts. ? She would now be in her late 60s. I would be delighted to receive any information which would lead to re-establishing contact with a charming "young" lady never forgotten . This is a genuine enquiry.
Geoff Creese
Welford on Avon, Warwickshire - Tuesday, June 05, 2007 at 15:05:48 (PDT)

I have been reading some of the comments in this guestbook and myself and my mam Jennifer (nee Stott) have been laughing our heads off. She would love to here from anyone that knew her or more of the stories from the good old days in Malvern Cres, just contact me and il pass on the messages thanks, Ian Henderson.
Ian Henderson
Seaham , Co Durham - Tuesday, June 05, 2007 at 15:03:36 (PDT)

Well Jacqueline, its great to keep in touch but I keep on finding old friends have passed away and others are on their last legs maybe. Still it is nice to hear GB folk talking about the old days at the Dene and the ash heap. some of us used to visit 'Pinckies Orchard' and scrump the produce therein. The Blast beach was always black-looking and lonley in those days and drift-wood fires were fun. The Featherbed Rock was high and mighy up untill a massive storm tore it down one night. The five young people who were drowned off the Featherbed Rock were washed up onto the Blast beach in the 50s. In the 50s the Nack was still going, the Sis was still going We went to the Cosy (Gaff) Arty Lockyer was getting about on a Velocette motorbike, Seaham looked Edwardian. Well, you have to accept change from the old to the new but there is one thing people cannot change and that is memories.
Brian Greenfingers
- Tuesday, June 05, 2007 at 15:02:41 (PDT)

hi . just found this guest book and my name is mick maratty. born in seaham 1944 left 1963. anymore marattys out there then get in touch.
mick
Sussex - Tuesday, June 05, 2007 at 15:01:00 (PDT)

Sorry folks but we will be carrying out summer maintenance from today until around 5th June. Please keep sending in your entries they will be posted when we start up again. Some Guestbookers are not including the word "JUPITER" in their text as requested. Please do so. Entries will not be published unless they contain "jupiter" - they arrive with the junk and are deleted.
Ed Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Monday, May 21, 2007 at 14:18:46 (PDT)

Jacqueline I can remember the time Seaham was a top vacation resort. In the summer you couldn't get a place on the beach it was so packed with people, and on the promenade where the toilets are there used to be a cafe which sold trays of tea etc to take onto the beach and also a shop that sold bucket and spades and anything else you needed for a day out at the seaside. There was also a shop that sold beach things on the Terrace opposite what was Barclays Bank and we all had a great day out. Now, on the occasions when I visit Seaham I always go along the prom and it is virtually deserted, except on a fine Sunday when it has a semblance of the past. I look forward to the 'new' vacation spot of the north being resurrected. Oh, happy days.
Parkside girl
- Monday, May 21, 2007 at 14:06:02 (PDT)

Hi Stephen Morris and welcome to the GB. We must have lived almost across the street from each other. I lived at 38 Dene Terrace five doors up on the short side. I remember going over to Findleys to see George's ferrets in the back yard.(nasty little bugg...s)they were trained for rabbit catching so kid's fingers were fair game !Spent many happy hours down the 'dene' and the ash heap.
Judy C
Alliston, Ontario - Monday, May 21, 2007 at 14:04:51 (PDT)

To Barbara Bentley, My Grandad's sister Alice was married to a James Alderson and had a son called William. Not sure if it is the same family. I do believe James was from Murton. Let me know if it rings any bells.... Im doing my family tree myself and can't quite believe how many family members i have!!!!!Dee
Dee
Huntingdon, Cambs - Monday, May 21, 2007 at 14:03:15 (PDT)

fao. walter riley . WHERE ART THOU WALTER ? HOPE I DIDN,T FRIGHTEN YU OFF, STILL A TORMENTING KID, SO MY BIG BRUDDER SAYS , COME OUT COME OUT WHEREVER YU ARE , RM. MASTERS WOULD YU LIKE SOME PANNACKILTY ?? OR LEEK PUDDIN, OR CORNED BEEF& leek pasty ? keep well r m. pp my nickname !!!
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Monday, May 21, 2007 at 14:02:00 (PDT)

"Popey" thank you for your message... I am just busy these days.... Hope you are well. Not sure where the other "regulars" are these days. I have missed "Seahamlad" and I guess "Colin Hall" too... I got used to his "teasy!" and also hope that "Brian Greenfingers" is doing well too.
Jacqueline
USA - Monday, May 21, 2007 at 14:00:25 (PDT)

Hello again Maureen, I just realized you are Frankie`s wife Tell him I was Isabel Bleasdale, he will get the shock of his life
ISABELLA ADAMS
mansfield, Notts - Thursday, May 17, 2007 at 15:33:07 (PDT)

hý roslyn ýts me carole ý was lookýng on thýs sýte ý found by mýstake and saw johns name were fýne out here ýn turkey how yous ýs aunty mary ok nýce to hear from u keep ýn touch
carole jobson
marmaris , mugla turkey - Thursday, May 17, 2007 at 15:32:04 (PDT)

I am researching my grandson's family, (he is ten years old). My grandson's father is Christopher Henry Smith, here in Ontario, Canada. I would like my grandson to have his family knowledge when he grows up. His grandmother, Elizabeth Isabel Gray Mileham, born 21 Church Street, Seaham Harbour, in 1927, unfortunately died here in Ontario three years ago. She married John Smith which I have yet to research (and with the name of John Smith, I don't hold too much hope). She was the daughter of John Thomas Mileham and Jane Mileham formerly Gray. I have researched the family back to 1858 and now looking for living relatives. Can you help?
Dianne Boucher
Ontario, Canada - Thursday, May 17, 2007 at 15:30:41 (PDT)

ROB Mcginty its dylan here woznt able to get ur email i think dats mine left on now hope u get it,its been to long mate!hope 2 hear from u soon. thanks to the people of seaham/dawdon for getting me in contact with an old friend. DYLAN MINNIS belfast
DYLAN MINNIS
Belfast - Thursday, May 17, 2007 at 15:29:17 (PDT)

Just found this Seaham Guestbook some good crack, some not so good. Anyway I'm from Murton and going to use your site as my mam is from Seaham. Maureen Morris nee Scollen,dad Harry Morris. Reading about the old times in Murton is great. Lorna Stokes, Scarborough and Judy C, Ontario quotes about Dene terrace/Sea view brought back many childhood memories.We lived in 22 Dene terrace until age of 9. We were amongst the last families to live in these streets. Demolished 1974. Forced to move into civilisation, up into Bevan Square, Mam and Dad still live at Bevan Sq. Some of the names sound familiar or maybe the same families. Harry Tweedy and Geordie Finley the serious flower growers at the bottom of Dene terrace, old Mrs Smith (son Alan Smith) a few doors down we watched for hours as she made clippie mats in the sitting room on this loud contraption. Steve Vardy the pigeon man (my nephew now has his allotment). And many more families still in Murton. All day down the d! ene, hours on the ash heap (landfill site) rats and all. I don't know when you last visited Murton, but over the last few years it has come on leaps and bounds. Some of the old things have gone making way for the new. Anyway just to let the ex-murtonians know when they closed the pit,Murton did'nt die, it's still here. Till next time. ps Lorna Stokes are you still looking for a photo of the plaque with George Potts memorial.
Stephen Morris
Murton Seaham, - Thursday, May 17, 2007 at 15:28:18 (PDT)

To all... Seaham people... old and new! I am absolutely delighted to hear about the new plans for Seaham to become a "top" vacation spot.. by the year 2012. It is about time that Seaham was transformed given all the history Seaham has to offer. I was just telling a friend the other day about the history of my old home town. Lets hope that these plans do indeed follow through. I will send all my American friends to Seaham for vacation.
Jacqueline
USA - Thursday, May 17, 2007 at 15:26:11 (PDT)

jaqueline.jaqueline. where for art you hast thou foresaken thy followers. colin hall have you taken to the hills.
popey
Sussex - Thursday, May 17, 2007 at 15:25:27 (PDT)

I am looking for relatives of my Grandad, John James Alderson, and of his two wives, Charlotte Simms (Murton)and Jane Ann Richardson. Any info would be appreciated. Also looking for Seaham plate collection showing Church Street etc.
Barbara Bentley nee Ball
San Fulgencio, Alicante España - Thursday, May 17, 2007 at 15:24:36 (PDT)

,FAO maureen rafferty, i feel like i,m listening to someone elses conversation reading your G/book comments.but i knew Johnny in the G..olden days and am sorry to hear of his death,i only just recall frankie ,i headed south 40yrs ago,the senior moments come more often now but at the time, the 1950s a name maureen white comes to mind.if i,m off the track im sorry for intruding but i am sorry to hear of jonnies death R.M
R.M.
Stevenage, uk - Thursday, May 17, 2007 at 15:23:14 (PDT)

Hi Richard Thorpe,This is the first time I have been into the guest book for some time as I have been out of the country. I saw your posting and the next time I see Wilson I will let him know you are back in town. He lives in Cottages Road.
Lucy Taylor (Chambers)
Dawdon Seaham, - Thursday, May 17, 2007 at 15:22:15 (PDT)

Rob McGinty, you didn't actually include your email address for me to use.
Ed Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham - Monday, May 14, 2007 at 15:39:09 (PDT)

Hi Corn ,GREAT TO SEE YOUR NAME APPEAR TONIGHT.I DO NOT FORGET OLD FRIENDS JUST BECAUSE YOU MOVED AWAY.I WAS A NEIGHBOUR OF YOURS WHEN YOUR PARENTS WERE ALIVE JUST AFTER THE WAR STARTED. I SERVED YOU AND YOUR TOMMY AND GEORGE IN THE MILL INN AS WELL AS THE ROADSIDE.I SAW YOU IN THE TOWN WHEN YOU WRE OVER HERE BUT YOU WERE PASSED BEFORE I COULD SPEAK TO YOU. IHOPE YOU HAVE SETTLED WITH YOUR DAUGHTER OUT THERE. IT WAS A PLEASANT SURPRISE TO SEE YOUR NAME INPRINT . HOPE TO HERE FROM YOU AGAIN.TTFN LILLIAN WILSON NEE STRONG.
Lillian Wilson
Seaham , Co Durham England - Monday, May 14, 2007 at 15:32:34 (PDT)

Hello to Jodie McLardy,You are looking for Bob Temple,father of the two boys lost at sea.I have told Bob and he is happy for you to get in touch with him by phoning Parkside Club,
Ian Campbell
- Monday, May 14, 2007 at 15:31:02 (PDT)

hi i have read lots of letters on this web page and have come to the conclusion seaham folk all had a whale of a time growing up there. my main interest is in seaham hall when it was used as a hospital for people with tuberculosis and later when the wounded airmen were sent there to recuperate.does anyone remember this and any of the nurses who workrd there? my mother was a nurse there her name was beatrice maude lumsden.does anyone remember her?
marjorie riches
conset, durham - Monday, May 14, 2007 at 15:29:43 (PDT)

FAO. Jodie Mclardy i know robs mam, dad and family well and see some of them often but none of them live in weatlea. if theres anything else i can help you with i'll try or if you want to get in touch with any of them i'll try to help you with that too.
harbour lass
Seaham , - Monday, May 14, 2007 at 15:28:40 (PDT)

This message is for con vickers, hi my husband frankie remembers you living in Seaham, at Seaton, would that be correct. Frankie moved away from seaham and came down south in 1960, still has his accent and so he should. We still try to get up north at least once a year, in fact we are going up on 5th july for his sisters 80th birthday her name is Betty Dent she lives in Aline Street, she lost her husbamd last november and also frankie brother johnny who lived in Murton died in September. Frankie worked at the knack. Seaham has changed a lot with the building of different things. If you would like to get in touch please feel free. Regards Maureen Rafferty
Maureen Rafferty
farnborough, Hampshire England - Monday, May 14, 2007 at 15:27:47 (PDT)

DYlAN MINNIS ROB McGinty here nice to hear your trying to get in contact again just got the internet this month give me a txt (Ed Mason has my email address for you on request)i'll give you me phone no.
ROBERT MCGINTY
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Friday, May 11, 2007 at 15:41:32 (PDT)

Hi carol jobson its your cousin roslyn. How are you and your family keeping. Just started to read this site and its good to see so many people i know so if anyone remembers me just drop a line on this site
Roslyn Nelson
Seaham , - Friday, May 11, 2007 at 15:31:06 (PDT)

My name is Cornelius Vickers, until June 2004 I lived in Seaham, but then moved out to live with my daughter and her family in New Zealand. It's a great country, but there's no Mill Inn or Roadside here! I worked on the local council for nearly 40 years and would love to hear from anybody who remembers me.
Cornelius Vickers
Palmerston North, New Zealand - Friday, May 11, 2007 at 15:30:02 (PDT)

looking for the family of Robert Temple who died out at sea about 4-5 years ago and was not found. father may live in westlea in seaham. please could you get in touch if you have any information on this man.
jodie mclardy
Seaham , - Friday, May 11, 2007 at 15:28:46 (PDT)

hya people if anyone still wants to know about the maratty family ask me as my mam is sarah maratty
emme willis
Seaham , - Friday, May 11, 2007 at 15:27:53 (PDT)

FOA John DeVincentis. I have Jordans in my family tree, but no James or Winifred - Do you have their years of birth so I can check if there's any link?
helen
Seaham - I came back, - Friday, May 11, 2007 at 15:27:01 (PDT)

FAO Delia Leith. Although I have no idea if there any Bannons left in Seaham, I did find 5 baptisms of children of George and Elizabeth Bannon. They were baptised at St John the Evangalist church at Seaham. The details are: Thomas, born 17th Jan 1904 and baptised 10th Feb 1904, George born 30th Oct 1905 and baptised 15th Nov 1905, Margaret born 25th Aug 1907 and baptised 11th Sep 1905, William born 26th Jul 1909 and baptised 11th Aug 1909 and Elizabeth born 17th Jun and baptised 5th Jul 1911. Hope this is helpful.
helen
Seaham , - Friday, May 11, 2007 at 15:26:25 (PDT)

John Lennon at Gib- At the start of the world war 2, my Father and four of his friends (all miners) were in the Territorial's, and all volunteered for war. When the higher ups found out that they were all pitmen, they were sent to Gibraltar to mine further holes in the famous Rock. So when you are looking at the Rock, you can always say that Five Seaham Harbour lads. put the holes in the Rock to make the Arsenal. They all returned safely to Seaham to work down the pits again. Please do not feed the monkey's You are not one of the monkey's on the rock, are you !!! E Leighton Seaham and proud of it.
Eric Leighton
Seaham , - Friday, May 11, 2007 at 15:25:41 (PDT)

Hy Dylan Minnis,send me your email address and ill put you in touch with Rob McGinty, junior his dad is a good mate of mine.
thomas stringer
Seaham , - Friday, May 11, 2007 at 15:24:34 (PDT)

hi dylan minnus i think i know the rob mginty your trying to contact if its the one ime thinking of his father is called rob too who is more my age i will try and get in contact with him for you you didnt leave an e mail address please contact me
terry milner
Seaham , - Friday, May 11, 2007 at 15:23:43 (PDT)

I found some old written documents concerning my grandmother who, according to records, was from Seaham Harbor, England. My name is John DeVincentis, I was born in 1947 in New Jersey (USA). My grandmother (on my mother's side) was Winifred Jordan, born in Seaham Harbor England. Her father's name was James Jordan, who married Sarah Jane Peggs. Winifred Jordan married William Coan (my grandfather), who was from Princeton, New Jersey. His father and mother were from County Cork, Ireland. I am excited to find all this information out just recently. I have never been to England, and I don't even know where Seaham Harbor is. Maybe someone could email me with information about Seaham, and perhaps trace my grandmother's family. Thank you.
John DeVincentis
Toms River, New Jersey USA - Monday, May 07, 2007 at 14:29:57 (PDT)

PARKSIDE GIRL: Thank you very much for updating me on the status of Daphne Crescent. It really fills me with much remorse to hear of its demise as I spent so many summers and weekends there. The saddest part is that I was a casualty of a family argument and never got to visit my Grandmother after 1981. I miss watching my Uncle Eric play for Dawdon Cricket Club and I miss traveling to away games to watch Seaham Red Star. I bet so much has changed since 1981 that I wouldn’t even recognize the place. Anyway, good luck to everyone still living in the area. Best Wishes. Take care everyone.
Gary
Knoxville, Tennessee USA - Monday, May 07, 2007 at 14:28:16 (PDT)

I am doing a family tree and found that my x2 great-grandparents lived in seaham harbour in and around 1890 to 1912...George Bannon was his name..are there any bannons left in the area? He sailed on the SS Merion in 1912 w/ wife and 6 children...Any info would be great.Thanks
Delia Leith
Delmont, NJ USA - Monday, May 07, 2007 at 14:26:36 (PDT)

"My Friend" Sorry I missed you too! Now my work is too busy to be "visiting" - I know you are there every week, so one week we may catch each other. If not, well, we can always somehow or another "visit" on this G/B. Hope all is well. Take Care.
Your Friend.
USA - Wednesday, May 02, 2007 at 13:53:30 (PDT)

does any1 in seaham/dawdon know how i could get in contact with ROB McGINTY early 30s from dat area?im an old friend from 10 years ago dat cant get a contact???
DYLAN MINNIS
belfast, - Wednesday, May 02, 2007 at 13:52:49 (PDT)

FAO,ray briggs,what the hell went wrong.thats easy,they dug out all the blackberry hedges, stopped planting turnips&taties planted acres of rape seed in their place,brought in mc donalds & pot noodles.then destroyed the industry that kept the area going,but the end really began when they did away with the arty lockyer,s and big jeffrey,s ,the local coppers that knew you & your parents.& you knew THEY were the law ..hard times,but i still think WE were the lucky ones ,RM
r.masters
herts, - Wednesday, May 02, 2007 at 13:51:53 (PDT)

Ed, thanks very much for your help.Through Seaham Harbour on line and your assistance, i am now back in contact with my old school mate Duggie Robson.I think Seaham Harbour on line provides a great service and i will be checking this site regular to see who else is out there. Many thanks again. Best wishes Jim Duggan
Jim Duggan
Seaham , - Wednesday, May 02, 2007 at 13:50:44 (PDT)

Ray Briggs 'what th hell went wrong?' We all growed up did'nt we? I hope Seaham can live in the 21st. centuary.
Brian Greenfingers
- Wednesday, May 02, 2007 at 13:49:41 (PDT)

Hello Ted Dowman, Ive just read your recollections of growing up in Seaahm. You hit the nail right on the head. My wife and I spent our formative young and early adult years in Seaham and are the better for it. If we had to stay indoors we thought we were being punished. We would, as as you say, spend our days outside in the coal dust laden air only to reappear when we got hungry. Down on the beaches, out in the woods, playing " Knock on the door ", setting off fire works on Nov.11th., Carole Singing at Christmas for a few coppers, sledging, sliding, jumping off trees, plodging in any available water, going to the Gaff, the Empire, the Princess and the Cosy movie theatres, tatie picking, black berry picking, eating anything we could get our hands on such as apples, turnips, rhubarb etc. etc. We had respect for our parents, our relatives, our community, the law and our fellow human beings. What the hell went wrong !
Ray Briggs
Bridgewater, Nova Scotia Canada - Sunday, April 29, 2007 at 15:03:50 (PDT)

sorry I missed you Friday, I'd only gone to make a cup of coffee, when I came back you'd gone!
your friend
- Sunday, April 29, 2007 at 15:01:58 (PDT)

I am hearing a lot about the Dawdon Leightons and am very interested as my mother was a Leighton, born in Wynyard Street 1905 but the family originated from North Wales, if anybody has any info or even belongs to this branch of the family I would love to hear from them.
Parkside girl
- Sunday, April 29, 2007 at 15:01:14 (PDT)

Dougie Robson. Can you plaese send me yopur email address again for Jim Duggan.
Ed Mason
Seaham, Co Durham - Thursday, April 26, 2007 at 14:22:40 (PDT)

I was born in Seaham in 1940 , I attended the sissy school when Weatherly was head master I just wondered whether anybody remembers me , or the people I was friends with. Peter Masters , jenny Manning , John Robson , Ernie Wallace , Dave Dickson.
John Brennan
Hong Kong, - Thursday, April 26, 2007 at 14:17:06 (PDT)

Tom Moreland, shame on you that you didn't find time to visit the lodge on your visit a bit back. For your info, there are only two lodges left in Seaham and it looks as though they will have to amalgamate due to their low numbers. Dad is now aged 87 ( George William Thorpe, known as Michael Thorpe to friends)and still active in the Shakespeare lodge completes his sixtieth year of service to the 'Buffs' this June. I know he would be interested to hear from you even if he can't meet you again, so if you want to swap emails via Sadie or Ed then I can always print out any messages for him.
Richard Thorpe
Seaham , - Thursday, April 26, 2007 at 14:16:15 (PDT)

Lucy, if you see Wilson Pinkney regularly will you let him know I am still around, would be nice to hear from him, I will leave my email with Sadie or Ed if its neede. Chris, I never did find the photo I was on about, although I know I still have it, it wasn't lost when I moved back to Seaham some six monrths back, just misplaced. Note, I have told Lucy I will leave my email with Sadie or Ed, contact them if you want to use it. Richard Thorpe
Richard Thorpe
Seaham , - Thursday, April 26, 2007 at 14:15:18 (PDT)

Hello Bill Barkess, Sorry it has taken me so long to reply to you notice, yes I do remember the Barkess family and Gaylia your sister, she was a little older than me I think. I remember you had a little dog, we were a dog mad family and breed cocker spaniels. Sadly brother, George Lund died last year. My sister Audrey Lund is well and living in New Zealand, I visited her last week. Harry the next brother, finished his arm career as a Captain and now lives in retirement in London with his family. Dad Harry Lund (Fatty Lund), emigrated to Australia to live with us, he was going to spend the last few months of his life with us, and was with us for 15years! So I guess the lifestyle here really suited him. Thanks for the reply, it was great to hear from Dawdon. Anyone out there go to Camden Square around 1960's thanks again Freda Rutherford (nee Lund)
Freda Lund Rutherford
Mt Warrigal, New South Wales - Thursday, April 26, 2007 at 14:14:20 (PDT)

To Ted Dowman, sorry to burst your bubble but i googled part of what you wrote and 12300 other people claim to have wrote that in one guise or another. it turned up on a forum i'm a member of last year.
Bow
Bathgate, west lothian - Thursday, April 26, 2007 at 14:12:46 (PDT)

FAO Helen, I know Tom Leighton of the Dawdon Leighton's, and am in regular contact with him. If you pass me your email address via Ed. I will give it to Tom; I'm sure he will give you any help he can.
Tom Moreland
London, - Thursday, April 26, 2007 at 14:11:42 (PDT)

i remember arty lockeyer he knocked a little lad over with his motorbike. cant recall who if anyone remebers . but if every policeman in the country was like arty . britain would be a safer place today
popey
sussex, - Thursday, April 26, 2007 at 14:10:56 (PDT)

I found this site very informative. The pictures are great as they reminded me of my holidays staying at the old station house with my uncle Dick Dawson
Kevin Dawson
COVENTRY, - Thursday, April 26, 2007 at 14:09:37 (PDT)

Ted Dowman, all what you said was perfectly true. It's now all disappeared into the mists of time and will never return. A truly fine piece of writing.
Brian Greenfingers
- Sunday, April 22, 2007 at 15:17:01 (PDT)

I was born in Seaham in 1953 and do visit occasionally, normally uring schools summer holidays. I have not lived in Seaham for about 35 years now, have been living in Gibraltar for the last 23 years. Just wondered if there is anyone still in Seaham who remembers me. Paul
Paul Lennon
gibraltar, - Sunday, April 22, 2007 at 15:16:28 (PDT)

Well said Tom Dowman .... I did all these things and still remeber them ... I just don't remember the people I did them with 'cept for mebbe a half dozen or so. The dene was my favourite haunt from being about 8 to being about 11 then we moved closer to the Harbour and the Bottle works field became the favourite haunt. I do remember the 'walk' to Richmond Jim ... and being stopped by the police at 3.30 in the middle of Durham City on the way back. buggers wouldn't give us a lift though lol.
Ray Scollen
Driffield, - Sunday, April 22, 2007 at 15:15:23 (PDT)

was up for the first 2 weeks in april, the changes are great.but again i,ll type u can,t beat that cliff top view as u walk along the coast,and the man who chats to me at noses,s point with his jack russell. i,v walked the blast beach so many times, but i love the sea.so enjoy it seaham people,ill be up again in may.
linda staynings
Bristol, - Sunday, April 22, 2007 at 15:14:31 (PDT)

wendy i knew the ashett family well when they lived in parkside cres.Alf,jenny and thier children the one you missed out was james.I also knew the cross family that lived in oxford street up deneside they were very nice people they lived near my grandmother whom i lived with.I also lived in Butcher street next to the pit we also only had a tap in the middle of the street and the toilet was across the road and freezing in the winter our andrex was the old news paper.Our parents used to also stand by the police and if you did owt wrong you were in for it,but then the police were okay especialy arty lockyear when he told you off you knew about it.When we played pussy in the corner it was a game god only knows what they would say it was now.
jim
Sunderland, - Sunday, April 22, 2007 at 15:13:09 (PDT)

Fao Eric, Thanks for your reply, I was more wanting to share the information I had, if it applied to you. I've traced the Leightons back to Newcastle in about 1807. Very interesting about the Dawdon Leightons though!
Helen
Seaham , - Sunday, April 22, 2007 at 15:11:37 (PDT)

to coalhewer ,,, sorry it true all you have written ,, BUT ,, still stuck ,, you gonna have to tell me ,,,
Pam Moore
New Ollerton, Notts - Sunday, April 22, 2007 at 15:10:47 (PDT)

R. Masters of Stevenage. I was talking to a diabetic expert the other day and she said kids are getting diabetus simply because they do'nt exercise these days and they sit there at their nintendo games getting fatter and fatter.
Brian Greenfingers
- Sunday, April 22, 2007 at 15:10:04 (PDT)

To ROE of St Marys, NSW, Australia. All is well with Marlon. We have put him in touch with the people you mentioned.
Ed Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Thursday, April 19, 2007 at 15:26:56 (PDT)

Hi, I love the website. I'm only about 5mins away from seaham, I live in a little village called Great Lumley, you might know it. I'll post a link to the website below. In the mean time, keep up the good work.
BB
Great Lumley, - Thursday, April 19, 2007 at 15:23:25 (PDT)

fao, walter riley.memories of childhood games came back to me reading your letter,esp.the hoop&hook ,of course if your old man new the colliery blacksmith you had a real iron hoop,while the rest made do with an old bike wheel with the spokes knocked out and a stick but you always went faster on an errand with your hoop than without.6 yrs ago i visited beamish and bought a hoop from the blacksmith shop to amuse my g/children,i did summer voluntery work at my local school after classes and took it for the kids to try,from a class of 15 only 3 were able get the hang of it and none saw the fun in shooting marbles,,talking of collecting ciggy cards convinced them i,d lost my marbles.nintendo was the thing, i see the same kids today in their teens still playing games on their mobiles but doubt if many could run a couple of hundred yards.the thing is,who lost out, us or them R M
r masters
Stevenage, - Thursday, April 19, 2007 at 15:22:46 (PDT)

Helen Re- the Leightons, my Father was born in West Stanley and came over to work down the Vane Tempest Pit. My Mother was born in Birtley. They were both in the iron and steel business, my mam ironed while my dad went out stealing. Ha Ha The only other Leightons I knew, belonged to Dawdon area, and as far as I remember, one of the Leightons became a Police Inspector, and his wife was Danish and was in show business in Benidorm. If you leave your surname and what town you live in,on the guestbook, Im sure someone will help you. There you are Im a failure again(so the wife says) Love to everyone from Eric
Eric Leighton
Seaham , - Thursday, April 19, 2007 at 15:21:34 (PDT)

hi wendy my nan jessie cross married your grandad henry wiltshire in later life my dad was william cross i rem in the sixty s your family comming to my nan s house to visit henry wiltshire my dad was given a kennedy half dollar sadly my dad william passed away in 2002 but i still have the half dollar and i myself then as a child still have vivid memories of your visit that day i also recall your brothers been with you on the visit i used to go with my nan to visit edith and betty on many occasions hope all your family are doing well give them my regards sharon
sharon osborne ne cross
grays, Essex England - Thursday, April 19, 2007 at 15:20:05 (PDT)

Some thoughts for the Seaham kids who were born in the 1930’s & 1940's Firstly, we survived being bombed by the Luftwaffe. We were born to mothers who smoked and/or drank while they carried us. They took aspirin, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a tin, and didn't get tested for diabetes. Then, our baby cots were covered with bright coloured lead-based paints. We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets, not to mention, hitchhiking. We would ride in cars with no seat belts or air bags. Riding in the back of a van, or on the shafts of the coop cart - loose - was always great fun. We drank water from the outside tap and NOT from a bottle. We breathed a mixture of coal dust and smoke. We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle and NO ONE actually died from this. We ate homemade cakes, white bread and butter and drank pop with sugar in it, but we weren't overweight because...... WE WERE ALWAYS OUTSIDE PLAYING!! We would leave home in the morning and play all day in the Dene, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on. No one was able to reach us all day. And we were O.K. We would spend hours building bogeys out of scrap and bits of old prams and then ride them down the hill, only to find out we had forgotten about brakes. We did not have Playstations, Nintendo's, X-boxes, no video games at all, no 99 channels on cable, no video tape movies, no surround sound, no cell phones, no text messaging, no personal computers, no Internet or Internet chat rooms.......... WE HAD FRIENDS and we went outside and found them! We fell out of trees, into the Dene beck,got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no lawsuits from these accidents. We played with worms and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever. Made up games with sticks and tennis balls and although we were told it would happen, we did not poke out any eyes. We rode bikes or walked to a friend's house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just yelled for them! Local teams had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn't had to learn to deal with disappointment. Imagine that!! The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke the law was unheard of; they actually sided with the law! This generation has produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever! The past 60 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas. We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned HOW TO DEAL WITH IT ALL! If YOU are one of them! CONGRATULATIONS! We had the luck to grow up as kids, in a great town, before the lawyers and the government regulated our lives for our own good! and while you are at it, forward it to your and grandchildren so they will know how brave we were.
Ted Dowman
Seaham , - Thursday, April 19, 2007 at 15:18:27 (PDT)

Hi ray nice to see you back.I can remember Mary and margaret weirs infact mary,s birthday is on the same day as mine only she is older by a year our gloria used to go around with her some times.Ray remember when we hitched to richmond to see your then girlfriend and i got wrong off the police because i had a leather coat on and jeans they thought i was a trouble maker because of it.We even slep in a barn and we lost some money in the hay stack and could we hell find it.That was in the days when the harbour was realy a great place to live in the 60s you got free music because some one for got to replace the front of the jukebox well it was ripped off realy.There were no carpets in the pubs just bits of tiles.
jim
Sunderland, - Thursday, April 19, 2007 at 15:15:23 (PDT)

fao. walter riley . Mattinees were saturday afternoons, i sold the ice creams remember, at the rex, Flash gorden, roy rodgers and trigger, gabby hayes , TARZAN, cheeter is 75yrs old still alive. W e still have skipping here on shrove tuesday ,they close the sea front and all adults, and children skip every year and sing those songs in out , and double dutch two ropes going opposite ways , crazy football, mile of pennies . I had a holligig yuk, and strung a rope around the lamp post and swung, judy c. will remember this , and hung upside down on the electric pylon , ride brassies horses bareback and try and stand up on it , like in a circus.I used to go down willies fields lay in the grass and play my mouth organ,practice carols for when xmas came around i was good , got cash at the white house, and mr. grogans, still play it !!I am baffled about joe riley , you were born the same year as me ,i still think you don,t know who i am , cos i know you and your mi! ddle name , i have searched for school pals, and of all the gin palaces in de world YOU come up from the past , did i hit you with my corned beef?did you ever go to THE MEADOW DAIRY and stand on the step next door swing your leg it had a mirror on the side , like harry worth , ask for broken biscuits, then say mend them !!!! if dad knew i would have got a good hiding , he was born above that shop on woods terrace ,
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Thursday, April 19, 2007 at 15:14:12 (PDT)

pam moore heres some clues foster gloria richy allison jonathen little sarah fosters two dogs gordon up murton plus who lived beside you in wesley way brain wood breezes thompsons faulkners booths how many more clues do you want
coalhewer
- Thursday, April 19, 2007 at 15:11:58 (PDT)

Joyce Wood, thankyou for your comments and news of Aycliffe. I have some good memories of your area. I remember some of the Teachers from Aycliffe School but I expect most of them are dead now. I know the Principle John Gittins passed away in the 90s. I remember visiting a Village called Staindrop once, it was classed as the prettiest village in the North, its not too far from Aycliffe. Cherrio for now.
Brian Greenfingers
- Thursday, April 19, 2007 at 15:11:05 (PDT)

Seahamlad, Hi, how are you these days? I hope well. I have not seen you on here for as many months as I have refrained from using this Guest Book. I think, I learned "trial by error" Oh.. Gosh! My comments over the years, had my American friends, shaking their heads at me - quite different from my professional life. Anyway, I hope you are well and your family too. God Bless... Jacqueline.
Jacqueline
USA - Sunday, April 15, 2007 at 16:10:19 (PDT)

My name is Ray Scollen and I left Seaham in 1967. I have been reading your guest book now for some 2 years, but the only name I recognise is james (Jim) Mather lol. surely I mus have known other people in Seaham. some names I do remember are Helen McVeigh, Janet Wilmot, Maureen Morris, Malcolm Crozier, Sandra, Tisha and Nicky Tullock, Barry Grundy, Billy Coates, Carol Wilson, Moira Williams to name but a lot. I am sure there are many others but my memory is a tad crap these days. If anyone does remember me please get in touch, I'm getting lonely im me owld age. Great site by the way ... keep it up and lets have more memories from Jim Mather ... they always bring a smile to this owld visage.
Ray Scollen
Driffield, East Yorks - Sunday, April 15, 2007 at 16:09:30 (PDT)

to coal hewer ,, yes i am still wondering ,, give me some more clues ,, yes that would be about right for Foster
Pam Moore
New Ollerton, Notts - Sunday, April 15, 2007 at 16:08:12 (PDT)

someone i know is trying to trace the daughter of george green and grace nee weir used to live in parkside then moved behind the phoenix the person who is trying to find out her name and address has some photographs of her parents which he would like to forward to her does anyone know her name or where she lives please contact me terry my email is TerMil614@aol.com
TERRY MCKENNA
Seaham , durham - Sunday, April 15, 2007 at 16:07:24 (PDT)

To Eric Leighton, I'm descended from some Leightons, my Great, great Grandmother was born Isabella Leighton in 1838, she married a Gilchrist but had 5 younger brothers born in the 1840s and 1850s, all of who had plenty of kids including sons. So if your family are long term Seaham residents, or nearby theres a good chance theres a link! It's ok, even if I am a distant cousin of yours I won't be on the cadge for money!
helen
- Sunday, April 15, 2007 at 16:06:32 (PDT)

It has been several years since I visited Seaham's website and I wanted to see if anyone knows my family members in Seaham. My mom was born in Seaham Harbor to Henry and Elizabeth Ellen Wallace Wiltshire and she still has two sisters living there, Edith Little on Wycliffe Road and Betty Jones Thompson. I have numerous cousins there also, Gweneth Ashett Morton, Alfreda Ashett Scollen and many more. Would love to hear from Seaham Harbor.
Wendy Evans Walton
El Dorado, Arkansas USA - Sunday, April 15, 2007 at 16:05:45 (PDT)

Hi Lorna ; you didn't upsett me in the slightest,re OLD MOTHER RILEY, as I said it did when I wes a child, but going to a catholic school and being taught by sadistic Irish teachers soon toughtened you up, and a few scraps in the school playground put payed to the name callers. Heres a few more favourite matenee films, The Bowery Boys, The three Stooges, ( Curley, Larry ,and Moor.) These were usualy shown at the Rex on a Saturday morning. On the subject of children in our times ,there was a season for diferent games ,skipping ropes that would streach across the road, and five or six children could all run in and out of the rope while it was being turned. Tops and whips, a small mushroom shaped wooden item was whipped by a string whip to keep it in motion. Boys would run miles with a steel hoop and hook to keep it running. Girls would spend hours standing close to a wall and bounce two balls against it while singing One two three alerie. (or something l! ike that )and the skippers would sing Two in two out to leave the rope is out. and another would be ,In and out and through the bluebells, I'm sure you girls can think of many more. I hope someone is making a record of these songs ,as kids nowerdays are too engrosed with there playstations to continue with our type of childhood pleasures. Oh yes and there was Hitchey dabbers. Before I forget, no my brother Joe didn't play snooker, he's only three years older than me.
Walter Riley
East Anglia, uk - Sunday, April 15, 2007 at 16:04:03 (PDT)

f.a.o. Brian Greenfingers. Yes Aycliffe School is still where you remember it. It is an approved school and goes by the name of Young Peoples centre, now. My late x- husband was a school teacher there. We moved from seaham 1975., and still live here in Aycliffe Village , two miles from Aycliffe itself. Maybe you helped build the school my sons went to.
J. Wood
Aycliffe Village, Co Durham - Sunday, April 15, 2007 at 16:01:57 (PDT)

Enjoyed browsing the site,some of the names ring a bell, try and visit Seaham every year,while on Holiday.looks a lot cleaner now the Pits have closed.Still survived, even though gloom merchants said it would be a ghost town. Love to hear from anybody who was in 5th year of Camden square in 1976, especially class 5B
PHILLIP VICKERS
MALTA - Sunday, April 15, 2007 at 16:00:36 (PDT)

Hi Eric Leighton thanks for the info on Mary iknow she livedjust past the cut leading to the Legion (Labour Club). My Dad Jack Spencer was chaiman of the Labour club when they built it around the old Legion that was back in 1963. Yes i am related to the MCADOOS Alan is married to my sister Margaret. Sorry Ed should have started with Jupiter
John Spencer
Portsmouth, - Sunday, April 15, 2007 at 15:59:40 (PDT)

Hi! My family have been trying to trace our family history for ages but we keep getting stuck. Our family name is Price and my great grandfather on my fathers side was Joseph Price. Our name was Lougheed at one point when Jane Eleanor Ballard married. I read an entry from years ago and a woman named Pat Lougheed from Australia was also trying to trace the same lead. Any info would be great.
Laura P
Sunderland, Tyne and Wear - Thursday, April 12, 2007 at 15:01:51 (PDT)

can anyone remember my cousin, sam ( clive ) weaver, he is living in portugal, but i know he would like to hear from any of his friends who remember him..............he lived at the knack...........
matthew lloyd
Murton, Co Durham - Thursday, April 12, 2007 at 15:00:47 (PDT)

John Spencer-I think that the Mary Wears your on about lived in Malvern, just beneath the the Legion club, which has been pulled down now. Her father went by the nick name PADDY, and I have never seen the bonny lass for years, she was a beauty Queen. Is that the John relation to the Mcadoo,s cos he's no snooker player and to the Masons keep up the good work, another beauty Queen is our Sadie. Signed Eric from the blind school.
Eric Leighton
Seaham , Co Durham - Thursday, April 12, 2007 at 14:59:06 (PDT)

hello pam moore still trying to fathom out who i am your very silent lately saw foster on saturday drunk been to the match
coalhewer
- Thursday, April 12, 2007 at 14:56:49 (PDT)

fao walter riley , i wasn,t being offensive walter , just stating my favourite films, dead end kids, mother riley,laurel and hardy , we were all taunted as kids, with me it was PANSY POTTER, the strong mans dotter, my favourite ammo was a tin of corned beef in a carrier bag , i was taught to have more manners than to skit people , sorry if i offended you, kitty mc shea died in london owing £3,600 never found where she was buried , they are still looking for her grave , you didn,t say if joe was your dad, apparently he was quite good at snooker , my brother used to play a game with him at the snooker hall, he,s older than me , and said joe was married in his 40,s when he was 18.
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Thursday, April 12, 2007 at 14:56:05 (PDT)

hi leighton. i was born in seaham emily st 1944. went to the catholic schools . worked at dawdon pit and vane tempest. left home 1964. now moved to sussex just .my name is popeye and i still nah nowt.
popey
Sussex - Sunday, April 08, 2007 at 16:08:19 (PDT)

As an ex seaham wed player could anyone give me there website or contact please.
Bill Barkess
coates nr peterborough, - Sunday, April 08, 2007 at 16:07:26 (PDT)

carole i think ive just realised who you were i think jobson was your surname we both lived in dawdon crescent at the same time i often see your sister doreen, and your brother david when he is up this neck of the woods hope you are keeping ok do you still show people your bent little fingers , yes i still remember hope to hear from you terry
TERRY MCKENNA
Seaham , - Sunday, April 08, 2007 at 16:06:31 (PDT)

Has any person, cracked the codes on the back page of Dan Brown's books e.g The Da Vinci Code or any of his books. Is anybody that clever in this area. The local library has'nt any idea. Is the only thing local people have cracked is nuts.
E Leighton
Seaham , - Sunday, April 08, 2007 at 16:05:49 (PDT)

hi carole kamar this is terry mckenna was your maiden name different because i dont recognise your surname
TERRY MCKENNA
Seaham , - Sunday, April 08, 2007 at 16:04:52 (PDT)

Hi Judy. I do remember your cousins Colin and Keith, Two very nice lads, One thing I do remember about them was they had a pair of powerfull binoculars that were the envey of all the lads in the street, and if you were in favour they would let you have a look through them. Now Lorna ,you bring up a very sore subject with me from my childhood. OLD MOTHER RILEY. I was taunted by all the kids at school, they would call me old mother riley.and sing, Old mother riley had an old cow, she wanted to milk it but didn't know how ,she pulled its tail instead of its tit, and old mother riley got covered in sh.. .Kids don't realise how cruel they can be at times. If Im right the person who played old mother rileys daughter Kitty O'Shea, was his wife, and I think she gave him one hell of a life. so I can't be the only one who didn't get any pleasure from the name.
Walter Riley
east anglia - Sunday, April 08, 2007 at 16:04:17 (PDT)

Looking for any of the following people: Gary Whelan, Leslie Pearson, Leslie Tuck, Stewart Lacy, from DeneSide Seaham. Please respond to stimpy_gurl@hotmail.com. In Canada reaching back for some history.
Peter C
Barrie, Ontario Canada - Sunday, April 08, 2007 at 16:02:59 (PDT)

hey dean a guestbook is for all and sundry to air their views,i dont think any one is twisting your arm too read it,thing is if you dont like it ,dont use it.
tom(tucker) stringer
Seaham , durham - Sunday, April 08, 2007 at 16:01:50 (PDT)

My Grandfather, Richard Roy Goss was born in Seaham, Aug. 29, 1875. His fathers name was John Goss. I hope to visit Seaham in the very new future to see and experience your town and the birthplace of my relitives. Who knows, might even find a relitive.
David Goss
Pewaukee, Wisconsin USA - Sunday, April 08, 2007 at 16:00:55 (PDT)

Is the M.Wears that posted a comment on Seaham the same Mary Wears that lived in Malvern Crescent?
John Spencer
Portsmouth, Hampshire England - Sunday, April 08, 2007 at 15:59:37 (PDT)

Guest Book, its more like a school ground bully antics. You lot should be ashamed of your selfs, fighting away like kids. Get a bloody life.
dEAN
- Tuesday, April 03, 2007 at 15:15:44 (PDT)

IT WAS INTEREETING TO READ YOUR GUEST BOOK I LOVE SEAHAM AND KNOW SADIE SHE IS A FRIEND OF BARBARA WHO IS A RIEND OF MINE BUT SEAHAM IS NOT AS I LIKE IT AS IT WAS TO MUCH COMMERCIAL NOW BUT WILL NEVER MOVE READ YOU AGAIN /LASS OF SEAHAM
M WEARS
SEAHAM, - Tuesday, April 03, 2007 at 15:15:06 (PDT)

Newton Aycliffe was and probebley still is, a nice place to live. I helped build a school there in the late 50s when Newton Aycliffe was an up and comming new town. There was a place called Aycliffe School in those days on the other side of the Great North Road, I wonder if it's still there?
Brian Greenfingers
- Tuesday, April 03, 2007 at 15:13:55 (PDT)

does anyone know the murray family or merry . WALTER MURRAY, got my brother interested in history , he was a friend of his and lost touch , he trys to forget his roots , now in latter years got him thinking !!!! HE IS A SNOB, still calls me a nosey kid, he forgets his roots AND I WON,T LET HIM .
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Tuesday, April 03, 2007 at 15:13:15 (PDT)

to limes learn to spell before you start to leave messages and yes i was walking on the pier on saturday blackpool pier haha
coalhewer
- Tuesday, April 03, 2007 at 15:12:19 (PDT)

fao. walter riley . in dads diary states joe riley beat me at snooker , they played at the snooker hall at the bottom of the terrace, apparantley, he was a good player , also dad used to take the union dues at the miners hall upstairs in a back room, i used to sit with him sometimes ticking names off, joe riley and dad used to have some banter about snooker. This weekend i went to our film society to see OLD MOTHER RILEYS films ,then to hull to see his grave , i thought his name was ARTHUR LUCAN, not so, he,s real name was ARTHUR TOWLE , he died on the stage of the TIVOLI THEATRE IN HULL , don, t make films like that anymore , THE YEAR 1954, i used to pratice his arm movements !!!! Simple fun, do,s anyome know if murton is preserveing murtons mining history ?
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Tuesday, April 03, 2007 at 15:11:39 (PDT)

Popey in Yorks. Don't tell me you were born in Sunny Seaham, These tykes are getting worse. Wake up and smell the coffee. Surely your name should be Popeye and arr naw nowt!
E Leighton
Seaham , - Tuesday, April 03, 2007 at 15:10:04 (PDT)

Ahhh ……. Boa Bill is alive and kicking. From the Knack to Bognor Eh? How did that happen, did you miss the ladder and grab hold of a snake? I can see that age hasn’t mellowed you at all, you are still as sharp and slippery as ever. Listen here old mate’ you shouldn’t mock my nose, I heard that when you got married you nodded and cut the cake. Have a great life and remember…………I still have two darts left!!! "Bella Lugosi"
Beardy
M/wich, - Sunday, April 01, 2007 at 14:40:49 (PDT)

if you taught someone all you know and they still know nowt then you knew nowt yourself
popey
yorks - Sunday, April 01, 2007 at 14:39:54 (PDT)

Eric, you know as well as I do that, that cat was highly intelligent, and I had been explaining to Felix that I thought I was going mad. The reason I thought this was because I had been trying to have an intelligent conversation with you. And the cat never once shouted at me, “Howay man horryup, me baykn n egg stotties gerrin caud”.
Tom Moreland
London, - Sunday, April 01, 2007 at 14:39:03 (PDT)

ý lýved ýn seaham ýve just read the dýary ý remember terry mckenna do u remember me
caral kamar
- Sunday, April 01, 2007 at 14:38:16 (PDT)

i lived in seaham and left when ý was 18 but its great to go back ive read the diary and i know so many people anyone who knows me please get ýn touch i was known as carole jobson
carole kamar
marmaris, turkey - Sunday, April 01, 2007 at 14:37:26 (PDT)

to coalhewer have you been for a walk along the pier recenetly
limes
- Sunday, April 01, 2007 at 14:36:18 (PDT)

can anyone remember my father in law, his name was Tubby Dawson. He worked at Dawdon Pit,and lived at Winslow Cres Westlea but was infamous for his singing. He would regular enter talent competitions,including westlea club and the knack, amd very often win them. One of his haunts was the Conservative Club in Seham, " Come on tubby give us a song they would say" his reply was always "If I have my music with me" and ofcourse he always did have it, in his inside pocket as usual. He would sing the old favourites which everybody could sing , and his favourites, which were Old man river and if I were a rich man, He had a real deep tennor voice,and enjoyed nothing more than to get up and sing, to me he was a character of Seaham,a well known club singer.
joyce wood
Newton Aycliffe, Durham - Sunday, April 01, 2007 at 14:35:49 (PDT)

Tommy Moreland, you can't lay bricks in the rain as the joints run out. What about you , I caught you talking to the cat. I've taught you all I naw and you still naw nowt. Your just a Parkside ruffian. So put that in your pipe and smoke it. Tat Tar For Now, from your City Tyler
E Leighton
Seaham , Co Durham - Thursday, March 29, 2007 at 14:48:56 (PDT)

there you are sadie life easier already not very hard is it
coalhewer
- Thursday, March 29, 2007 at 14:47:55 (PDT)

Hi Eric, it should be you buying me a pint, not the other way round. Remember the time you got me paid off from that (crap) garage job at Ryhope, and just because I wouldn’t go out in the pouring rain. It was then that I decided to move south; it doesn’t rain down here. With having to call in at Yorkshire and Evesham, I did not have the time to visit the lodge but with luck I will have more time to spare on my next visit
Tom Moreland
London, - Wednesday, March 28, 2007 at 14:38:52 (PDT)

To All Guestbookers, Could you please remember to start your comments for the book with jupiter not jupitor. Many thanks it makes life a lot easier for us.
S. Mason
- Monday, March 26, 2007 at 15:10:46 (PDT)

I just wanted to thank LOL for the lovely walk down memory lane. I haven't thought of space dust in years! plus I was a champion beck-jumper, although my mam used to despair of the states I'd get in when I didn't quite make it over.
Helen
- Monday, March 26, 2007 at 15:08:06 (PDT)

So, "Beardy", Our paths cross once again. There was no stealing. Flo said you reminded her of "Bella Lugosi" and as for Pakka stealing Susan from under your nose. With a nose like that you most likely never saw him. The town rejoiced when you packed your bags and left. The girls were not afraid to go out at night again! By the way, expect a letter from my brief. You sorry spelk ender.
B the snake r
Bognor regis, - Monday, March 26, 2007 at 15:07:20 (PDT)

fao. r. masters . Yes we were all strong women , saw them operate in the miners strike i paid a visit to muton and helped out with buying sacks of tatties and pork pies from bucknalls on woods terr. did my bit for my dad who was killed in 1970 digging for black gold . my cousin in france is cooking the same things, my brother and my daughter as well , leek pudding, dumplings pease pudding , broth it was our staple diet cheap cuts of meat all wholesome food, STILL HAVE THE RATION BOOKS, and my identity card !!Yes i used to go and get 2 meat and tattie pies and mushy peas on a friday, it was 2 women in silver street that did it . sparkie nobles mum always forgot something she would wait until he closed then send me to his side door, i was scared of him, i would knock on the door and he would say whats thou want kid, then he would get it and then give me an oxo cos he knew i liked them , didn,t know doris worked there used to go to minns,s as well there were n! ice to me , then over to the pit gates watching tot hedley playing with the steam coming out of the canteen, then into the canteen to get ginger snaps as big as saucers happy times
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Monday, March 26, 2007 at 15:06:08 (PDT)

fao lol what a wonderfull recollection enjoyed the memories of youth , not that i am that old !!! respect of your parents and playing games
lorna stokes
scarborough, NYorkshire - Monday, March 26, 2007 at 15:04:27 (PDT)

fao. walter riley, I HAVE KNOWN WHO YOU ARE SINCE I CAME BY ACCIDENT ON THIS SITE WALTER, JUST BEEN TESTING YOU OUT . AS SOON AS I SAW YOUR NAME I WONDERED IF IT WAS YOU. OUR PATHS CROSSED BRIEFLEY, IT WAS A BRIEF ENCOUNTER !!!! NOW I AM GOING TO TEASE YOU, WE ARE THE SAME AGE AND YOU HAVE A MIDDLE NAME , YOU SAID TO ME DON,T TELL ANYBODY, YOU TOLD ALL THE GIRLS THIS , THEY ALL KNEW AND I KEPT YOUR SECRET ALL THESE YEARS!!! YES I SAW JOE RILEYS NAME IN THE BOOK BUT I THOUGHT IT WAS YOUR DAD , IN MY DADS DIARY WAS THE SAME NAME ? AND I KNEW WHERE YOU LIVED AS WELL, YOU USED TO SIT IN THE BACK ROOM IN PIOLIS LISTENING TO THE JUKE BOX , SAME TIME AS ME , NO I DIDN.T KNOW THE AUTHOR WAS PETER BARTLEY , NAME RINGS A BELL , JOE RILEY I AM THINKING ABOUT WAS THE SAME AGE AS MY DAD .
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Monday, March 26, 2007 at 15:03:35 (PDT)

lol. thanks for the walk down memory lane.you must remember the shot blasting at hawthorn quarry.used to wake us all up . we used to go over there but there wasent a soal to be seen . we thought it was haunted. no pits now only ghosts and memories.
popey
Yorks - Monday, March 26, 2007 at 15:02:04 (PDT)

It's good to go back in time Lol. Rolling back the years is a luxery some of us can do like a cascade of golden memories flowing into a gentel stream of what once was. It made very good reading, it's so good to know when others remember too.
Brian Greenfingers
- Monday, March 26, 2007 at 15:01:18 (PDT)

lol, a very nice piece of rememberance, also I see Tommy Morland has at last surfaced and cleared his throat of that London smog. Did you remember to go to the Lodge, Tommy, cos you never called in to the Knack cos it would be nice to receive a gatter or two from you, and pigs might fly. And a special hello to Libby and Sammy at the Geordie Bar in Southern Portugal. Love to everyone
E Leighton
Seaham , - Monday, March 26, 2007 at 15:00:28 (PDT)

Hi Walter it seems that our paths must have crossed many times. My Aunt lived at #1 Hill Crescent her name was Susie Balls she had twins Colin and Keith. Tom Moreland I would like to say that I enjoyed reading your last entry it is so true that we are all trying to wipe out our "roots" for better things. Soon the memories will only be in photographs and in the minds of our older community who will not be with us forever. Photographs are only a moment frozen in time and do not tell the story of our mining community we have to rely on stories being handed down but how many of the young people want to listen to those golden tales.
Judy C
Alliston, Ontario - Monday, March 26, 2007 at 14:59:13 (PDT)

Some years ago I did an interview with a man named Jack Livermore, and we are now good friends. Jack lived on the Green in Whitburn, County Durham, and recently this 80-plus year old man told me he is yearning to see his old home area. He is not able to physically do this, however. Is it possible to attain photographs or greetings or memories of this area that I could relay to him. Rose Moore at randrmoore@adelphia.net
Rose Moore
Chardon, Lake County, Ohio - Saturday, March 24, 2007 at 16:02:12 (PDT)

In my last submission please substitute colliers for collieries. Sorry.
Tom Moreland
London, - Saturday, March 24, 2007 at 16:00:45 (PDT)

Having just returned from looking at all the new things that are happening in Seaham, it makes me wonder why there seems to be an urgent need to get rid of all signs of Seaham’s industrial past. All three colliers are gone with just a few pipes sticking out of the ground. The Docks (although buzzing with activity) hold no sign of their glorious past. The interactive railway system that once connected Seaham’s industry is no more. A stranger would never know that there had been a major, steel (smelting) or bottle works at Ropery Walk; and why is it called ‘Ropery Walk’? The beautiful St. Hild & St Helen’s (Miners Cathedral) Church at Dawdon seems to be falling into disrepair. Church Street shows no sign that it is to be developed to fit in with the new Asda Superstore. A complex that (with car parking and shopping trolley facilities), will sell items at a price that will most likely put all the other traders in Church Street out of business. And now there is a lobby bent on getting rid of the statue of the person responsible for making Seaham’s industrial heritage possible. These examples are just a small proportion of Seaham’s industry record. Will Beamish be the only place where a person can view the industrial legacy of Seaham? I know things must change but it is a pity that (in the Seaham area) Seaham’s coal mining heritage will only be remembered in history books. I enjoyed my visit to the place I was born and bred, but it makes me sad to see the Seaham I knew as man and boy, disappear under a blanket of new build.
Tom Moreland
London, - Saturday, March 24, 2007 at 16:00:08 (PDT)

i. was brought up in medomsley cottage homes nr consett co durham in 1930s 1940s when i left i did live around the seaham harour area my name then was spalding would like to hear from anyone who remembers medomsley cottage homes next time please use jupiter
pauline dunec
pprtsmouth, - Saturday, March 24, 2007 at 15:58:18 (PDT)

Was joe riley a seaman.
popey
yorks, - Saturday, March 24, 2007 at 15:56:18 (PDT)

fao Lorna. at last you've nailed me down. Yes my older brother is Joe Riley, Yes I attended St Josephs school, Yes I have read the book, it was recomended to me by Margaret. But did you know the real name of the auther is Peter Bartley? You must have got my brothers name from Peters book .We used to live in Hill crescent ,next door to Paddy Doyle. Those were the days...
Walter Riley
East Anglia, - Saturday, March 24, 2007 at 15:55:47 (PDT)

Just for a minute forget your stressful life, and read this............... Close your eyes and go back in time... Before the Internet... Before semi-automatics, joyriders and crack.... Before SEGA or Super Nintendo... Way back....... I'm talking about Hide and Seek in the park. The corner shop. Hopscotch. Butterscotch. Skipping. Handstands. Football with an old can. Fingerbob. Beano, Dandy, Buster, Twinkle and Dennis the Menace. Roly Poly. Hula Hoops, jumping the stream, building dams. The smell of the sun and fresh cut grass. Bazooka Joe bubble gum. An ice cream cone on a warm summer night from the van that plays a tune. Chocolate or vanilla or strawberry or maybe Neapolitan or perhaps a screwball. Wait...... Watching Saturday morning cartoons, short commercials or the flicks. Children's Film Foundation, The Double Deckers, Red Hand Gang, Tomorrows World, Tiswas or Swapshop?, and 'Why Don't You'? - or staying up for Doctor Who. When around the corner seemed far away and going into town seemed like going somewhere. Earwigs, wasps, stinging nettles and bee stings. Sticky fingers. Playing Marbles. Ball bearings. Big 'uns and Little 'uns. Cops and Robbers, Cowboys and Indians, and Zorro. Climbing trees. Making igloos out of snow banks. Walking to school, no matter what the weather. Running till you were out of breath, laughing so hard that your stomach hurt. Jumping on the bed. Pillow fights. Spinning around on roundabouts, getting dizzy and falling down was cause for giggles. Being tired from playing....remember that? The worst embarrassment was being picked last for a team (BUGGER - THIS STILL HAPPENS TO ME ON COD OU!) Water balloons were the ultimate weapon. Football cards in the spokes transformed any bike into a motorcycle. Choppers and Grifters. Eating raw jelly. Orange squash ice pops. Vimto and Jubbly lollies Remember when... There were two types of trainers - girls and boys, and Dunlop Green Flash The only time you wore them at School was for P.E. And they were called gym shoes or if you are older - plimsoles .You knew everyone in your street - and so did your parents. It wasn't odd to have two or three 'best' friends. You didn't sleep a wink on Christmas Eve. When nobody owned a pure-bred dog. When 25p was decent pocket money. Curly Whirlys. Space Dust. Toffo's. Top Trumps. When you'd reach into a muddy gutter for a penny. When nearly everyone's mum was at home when the kids got there When any parent could discipline any kid, or feed him or use him to carry groceries and nobody, not even the kid, thought a thing of it. When being sent to the head's office was nothing compared to the fate that awaited a misbehaving pupil at home. Basically, we were in fear for our lives but it wasn't because of drive-by shootings, drugs, gangs etc. Parents and grandparents were a much bigger threat and some of us are still afraid of them. Didn't that feel good? Just to go back and say, Yeah, I remember that! Remember when.... Decisions were made by going "Ip, Dip, Dog Sh*t" & "Race issue" meant arguing about who ran the fastest. Money issues were handled by whoever was the banker in Monopoly. The worst thing you could catch from the opposite sex was germs. And the worst thing in your day was having to sit next to one. It was unbelievable that 'British Bulldog 123' wasn't an Olympic event. Having a weapon in school, meant being caught with a catapult. Nobody was prettier than Mum. Scrapes and bruises were kissed and made better. Taking drugs meant orange-flavoured chewable aspirin. Ice cream was considered a basic food group. Getting a foot of snow was a dream come true. Older siblings were the worst tormentors, but also the fiercest protectors. If you can remember most or all of these, then you have LIVED. Young â€˜uns, talk to your parents and they will remember.
lol
- Saturday, March 24, 2007 at 15:54:55 (PDT)

Hello all those of Seaham or ex Seaham like me. I will be back in the town tommorrow for a few short days to attend a funeral and hopefully things wont have changed to much. My visits get shorter and greater time in between each one. I still think of Seaham as my homeland and hope the town retains its unique ways for years to come.
Amanda nee Sowerby
Guernsey, Channel Islands - Saturday, March 24, 2007 at 15:52:17 (PDT)

lorna,seems we,re out of same mould.in doris,s last 10 weeks i was taught how to cook for myself&promise never to buy ready meals, i still have pannack regulary,& bake once a month ,C/Beef& tatie,Bacon &Leek& cheese & onion pies,and boil a shank&make pease pud, my g/kids all look foward to their share,& i deliver small pots of P/pud to some of the old codgers in my club.my son took all recipes to N zealand & does same out there.i thought it was a dead art when you see the way kids shop nowadays. A memory!! can you remember the woman who made % sold plate pies from her house near to sparky nobles shop,Dots first job was at sparkies.. golden days, R.m
R.M.
Stevenage, - Saturday, March 24, 2007 at 15:50:27 (PDT)

David Paige, Nice to hear from you. My father was Jack Gilbert, he was the engineer on the tugboat "Seaham" so I reckon you must be around my age, 84.
Jimmy Gilbert
Balga, Western Australia - Saturday, March 24, 2007 at 15:49:12 (PDT)

"To the "Real Bill" Hey, I remember why you are offering a "sorry" to me... and don't worry, all forgotten - all "water under the bridge." Hey, it is not as if I have not upset people on here... Plenty of times! For now, I am just too Political, and opinionated to be posting any comments on here. We have a lot going on here in USA, as you well know... and well... this is a British website - so, I will keep the American Politics off this site. Mind you Bill, I do think Edwards needs to drop off the political race now his wife's cancer has reoccurred - Not sure Edwards would get anywhere anyway. Though, it seems this Presidential elections there are not many choices: We have Democracts and now Republicans (Guillani) who are pro-choice! and all about pushing the homoesexual gender. Whatever happened to conservative family values? Though you are from a very liberal state - so I suppose your views may be different to mine - remember that is okay, to have a difference of! opinions. There are no right or wrong answers. Anyway, take care out there in San Francisco. God Bless.. Jacqueline
Jacqueline
- Saturday, March 24, 2007 at 15:47:51 (PDT)

fao. walter riley, thanks i seem to reconize margarets name ? did you go to murton modern school or st. josephs, i remember some boys, and most of the girls in my class , juniors cos we were seperated in the seniors boys upstairs girls downstairs spoilsports . walter get this book THYE PEOPLES HISTORY PIT BOY BY PJ McPARTLAND MEMORIES OF LIFE IN MURTON , PICTURES LOVELY BOOK AS THOUGH YOU ARE STILL THERE, ARE YOU ANY RELATION TO JOE RILEY ?
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Thursday, March 22, 2007 at 16:22:40 (PDT)

tojimmy gilbertmy dad worked with a jimmy gilbert on the tugboat seaham in the 1920s
David Page
busselton, W.A. - Thursday, March 22, 2007 at 16:21:25 (PDT)

Beardy,its off.you can have her.realised with $20 million i,d loose me benefits & pay full council tax. R M
R.M.
Stevenage, - Thursday, March 22, 2007 at 16:20:24 (PDT)

FAO, R.MASTERS GREAT NEWS , KEEP GOING , MY OLE MANS PROB. IN THE NETHER REGION !! TAKE NOTE BOYS NEW TREATMENT 3MTH INJECTIONS, SLOWS THINGS DOWN. REF. MY S/AFRICAN PRINCE HE KEEPS PESTERING ME WANTS ME TO L@@K AFTER HIS MONEY, DAD ALWAYS SAID NEVER TAKE MONEY FROM STANGERS, ONLY WHO YOU KNOW !!!!!! I AM DOING CATERING FOR A WELL KNOWN CELEBRITY HERE HE,S MA WAS A GEORDIE, AND BROUGHT UP ON PEASE PUDDING, HE,S 81 NOW NEVER MARRIED , ON THE MENU IS PANNACKILTY, BOILED BACON, MY SPECIALITY HOT PEASE PUDDING ,TO FINISH IS RHUBARB CRUMBLE, HIS PRESSIE IS A LUMP OF MURTON COAL, I HAVE 3 LUMPS LEFT MR MASTERS ,ITS ONLY FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS, ONE HAS YOUR NAME ON IT , ITS THE LAST COAL THAT WAS BROUGHT UP FROM MURTON, NOT THE PIECE I THROUGH AT YOU IN 1955
lorna stokes
scarborough, - Thursday, March 22, 2007 at 16:19:46 (PDT)

Beardy. Sorry you could not contact me through the other channel. I'm taking my annual hol's. A whole month. Will be back at the keyboard cum 10 April. If you play scrabble you will know the tiles are all down! Don't worry bro! My first visit to the GB I was stupid enough to put my Email address. That was a couple of years back. I'm still getting between 10 & 20 Email's a day. I've won so many lotteries the money would not fit in the Mariana Trench. Are you and Tryphina going to tie the knot over there or are you coming out here? Small suggestion, don't mention the ammount on here. Never know when the Tax man is taking a gander. Have killed all the spiders from Mars & still have both legs. Life's good on the Ponderosa, the weather has not cooled, still in the mid thirties everyday. Still no rain that's a month now without any. The farmers are jumping on the bandwagon and hoisting the prices daily. Every year is the same. Even when it rains they have a plan. Crops washed away an! d such. Send food parcels quick. Only one tin of pease pudding left. Hoping to get you some pic's in the next two weeks. When we trek out into the wilderness. Should be OK in this heat. The lions will be to worn out to chase us. Tell me when the Droe Wors is finito & I'll organise you some Biltong. Send your new Email address to therealbill@thatplace.com. Whoops I did it again. Have to sign off now matey. We have a power cut here & I'm running the old PC off the gas bottle and it's almost empty. To Shelly, Hi again. Nice to see you are still here. To Jacqueline, sorry missy. X X X X
The Real Bill in SA
- Thursday, March 22, 2007 at 16:18:31 (PDT)

R. Masters. Hey man, you were quick off the mark with the Princess and here I am thinking I was her “chief” in waiting. I’m gutted, but all is not lost, I still have two winning tickets from Dutch lottery. I hope the two of you will be very happy. As long ago as the sixties Seaham lads always had this knack of pinching the women I fancied. Bill “the snake” Richardson jumped in and pipped me for the affections of the lovely Flo Hindson and that renowned West Lea romeo Tom Paxton worked his evil charms and pinched the divine looking Susan Hayes from under my nose. Life in the spelk end at the Cosy was never the same after that. I hate you blokes, no wonder I moved south but watch out, I will be back!
Beardy
M/wich, - Wednesday, March 21, 2007 at 15:38:13 (PDT)

fao Lorna Stokes, Hi Lorna , re your request for me to contact Margaret White, I will do so as soon as she gets back to Canada,as she had to drop everything and return to Murton as her mother had passed away . As soon as she returns to Canada and back in contact, I will find out about Barbra Finn.
Walter Riley
east anglia USA - Wednesday, March 21, 2007 at 15:37:00 (PDT)

To Fred Cooper, I am originally from Seaham and have family called "Swann" maybe I can help you. Liz Fairns
Liz Fairns
Renfrew Scotland - Wednesday, March 21, 2007 at 15:36:02 (PDT)

lorna.you sure he,s african,maybe he,s one of those nack lads you hit with the coal.. wonder how a ham ,pickles &pease pudding tea will go down at my reception.?..we could make it a double and invite all the old crocks who contribute to this great g/book.bet that would be a hell of a do..R.M, P/S.had good news from hospital.not out of woods yet,but starting to see daylight.will beat it yet.hope you & yours are well
R.M.
Stevenage, - Wednesday, March 21, 2007 at 15:34:55 (PDT)

Rob nicholson/mather i know you have read this site your dad told me.Just to let you know your mam is okay and could have her op on thursday.
Neptunite
Sunderland, - Tuesday, March 20, 2007 at 16:59:42 (PDT)

in seaham last year,family come from seaham.from what i saw this town gonna be quite summit in next few years
cazzy
lowerstoft, suffolk - Tuesday, March 20, 2007 at 16:59:01 (PDT)

r. masters . i do congratulate you on your engagement to the princess hope you will enjoy spending her dough , sorry i keep lapseing into geordie talk , i too have been approached by a s/a prince wanting me to bank his money told him i only have a small safe !! what a laugh
lorna stokes
scarborough, North Yorks - Tuesday, March 20, 2007 at 16:57:55 (PDT)

fao walter riley, hi walter have you had any word from margaret white ref. barbara finn ?
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Tuesday, March 20, 2007 at 16:56:54 (PDT)

dear beardy. after a long e/mail courtship i am about to marry the same princess from mpumalanga that you had contact with & help her spend her$20 million ,with your experience of her do you think she may be interested in me only for my body..R/M
r masters
Stevenage, - Monday, March 19, 2007 at 15:40:51 (PDT)

Hey Walter it was me describing the taps in Dene Terrace and I do remember the water spout in Dawdon Dene. We used to put a big leaf on the bottom of the pipe so that it ran further out. Talking of leaves my father in law George Carver from Parkside had the best privet hedge in his front garden on Heathway and he got all the cuttings for it from around that water spout.
Judy C
Alliston, ontario - Monday, March 19, 2007 at 15:39:29 (PDT)

to coalhewer ,,, the youngest of the rennoldson 's is Richard ,, what is your real name ,,, very curious
Pam Moore
New Ollerton, Notts - Monday, March 19, 2007 at 15:38:07 (PDT)

Thank you to A. Tasker and Helen who kindly sent me information on Viceroy Street. Looking forward to visiting Seaham this Summer to see your lovely town for myself.
Susan
weymouth, dorset - Monday, March 19, 2007 at 15:37:12 (PDT)

fao. walter riley. it was a monument to someone, i think , for ist. world war , it was spring water , when i used to walk to seaham harbour, i took a pop bottle to fill, FENTIMANS POP!!! used to go down the docks to swim then 4miles walk home , no money for owt else . Read with interest about featherbed rock as well could not find it when i went to seaham harbour , We had two of those fountains here for drinking closed them down for health and saftey walter , wonder if it is still in dalton- le-dale. look on there web site you will see the dene that came out on the a19 (old one ) times inn etc. i used to sledge down the dene until i went through the railings and into the BECK, and walked to water pipes for a dare , remember flash gorden, emperor ming every afternoon sat matinee at the rex loved it
lorna stokes
scarborough, Yorks - Monday, March 19, 2007 at 15:36:18 (PDT)

to shelley from watling did you enjoy your dinner in the mallard on sunday alwaYS TASTES better WHEN SOMEBODY ELSE PAYS
coalhewer
- Sunday, March 18, 2007 at 15:14:52 (PDT)

to pam moore knew all the renoldsons gordon foster cant remember the youngerst and you good family
coalhewer
- Sunday, March 18, 2007 at 15:14:13 (PDT)

to coal hewler shelly from watling here thanks for your nice comments
shelly
selby, NYorkshire - Sunday, March 18, 2007 at 15:13:34 (PDT)

Elizabeth Hassall: Please send your email address so that we can put you in touch with Angela.
Ed Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Saturday, March 17, 2007 at 17:25:36 (PDT)

After reading Lorna's description of the water taps down cornwall,brought to mind the next place for a drink of water, when walking down to the Harbour from Murton was Dalton le Dale. There was a sort of alcove in the wall with a constant supply of cold clear water flowing from a pipe. I'm not sure if it was spring water or a land drain. but it tasted so good I would sometimes take a small bottle to fill, so as I would have a drink while I was at the Harbour. I don't suppose it's there now, as Health and saftey wouldn't like the idea of being suede for allowing the public to drink water from a pipe sticking out of the wall.
Walter Riley
East Anglia, - Saturday, March 17, 2007 at 17:20:17 (PDT)

i went for awalk on the north pier but could not get on for the big gates what happened to the campain tolet the residents of seaham use the pier fishermen got exclusive rights again some campain haha
coalhewer
- Saturday, March 17, 2007 at 17:18:59 (PDT)

Hi Elizabeth, thanks for your reply and via this posting ask Ed to pass on my email address. I've got only a small amount of information on the Murphy's so am looking forward to hearing from you. Speak soon Angela Hutchinson
Angela Hutchinson
Sunderland, - Saturday, March 17, 2007 at 17:18:17 (PDT)

to sam orrick i can remember shelley from warkworth butshelley from watling was the best lovely curly hair and nice smile used to work in the duncow had a different car every week you must have known her really gobby but nice girl
coalhewer
- Saturday, March 17, 2007 at 17:16:51 (PDT)

thanks for answering my letter. it was just that i recall a pat and mick maratty that went to my school. st mary mags . mabey they are related to the people you mentioned .thanks again
popey
Yorks - Saturday, March 17, 2007 at 17:16:02 (PDT)

To coal hewer ,, Old Foss ,, his name was Foster Rennoldson & yes we did live in Wesley Way ,,
Pam Moore
New Ollerton, - Saturday, March 17, 2007 at 17:14:59 (PDT)

Old Foss, man of principle, man of steel in more ways than one. He was a true eccentric who loved his job. Just like a fellow I knew who was on duty at a gated compound nere London when Sebastion Coe (the olimpic runner) turned up and asked to be let in that particular gate. No replyed the guard you have to use the other gate on the other side of the compound. Do'nt you know who I am? I'm Sebastian Coe. Good said the Guard that means you can run even quicker around to the other gate. People who say 'do you know who I am?' should always be put down.
Brian Greenfingers
- Saturday, March 17, 2007 at 17:14:09 (PDT)

Yes i can back up what Pam Moore wrote about her Dad Old Foss, as a friend of Pam & Tom her husband, they took me up to North East once to meet him, a great man, as a strong club man myself i wish we had doorman like him.
Raymond Dawson
Tuxford, Notts - Saturday, March 17, 2007 at 17:13:05 (PDT)

FAO: Popey of York. if your still checkin in this site. you were looking for members of the maratty family, i was talking to a Sarah Maratty last nite she has sisters Angela, Tish and a brother who's name i'm not sure of, i mentioned that someone was looking for people with her maiden name and she said there wasn't many of them, so if there is anything you'd like me to pass on i would do that.
angela
Seaham , - Wednesday, March 14, 2007 at 17:22:58 (PDT)

old fos but what was his real name he lived in wesley way he had a son with the same name
coalhewer
- Wednesday, March 14, 2007 at 17:21:57 (PDT)

it made me chuckle when i was reading about OLD FOSS from Westles club ,,, it is all true ,,i know ,,cos it was my DAD
Pam Moore
New Ollerton, - Tuesday, March 13, 2007 at 16:36:45 (PDT)

Just to say to Sam Orrocks & shelly the OLD FOSS you were talking about was my DAD he died several years ago ,, those stories are very true ,, he even sent his own sons home for there cards if they didn't have them with them
Pam Moore
New Ollerton, - Tuesday, March 13, 2007 at 16:36:06 (PDT)

Real Bill. Hope you are keeping well down in Souf Afreeka. I have been trying to contact you via Eskum to let you know I have changed my email address but I don’t get any reply. Have the spiders finally killed you off or have you retired to the Pullenshope Ponderosa? Sorry marra, I don’t want to leave my new email address here. I left the last one on the GB I instantly became Mr Popular. Since then I have won just about every lottery from here to Kazakhstan and every crooked politician in Africa wants to give me money. Even some wacko Tribal Princess from Mpumalanga wants to marry me and share the $20 million she discovered in her late husbands Swiss bank account. Apart from all that everything is OK. We are still chewing on the Droe Wors. I think you and Jackie should kiss and make up. How about it?
Beardy
M/wich, - Tuesday, March 13, 2007 at 16:34:52 (PDT)

To Paul Morris: I have contacted Marlon Baars. He remembers you well as a best buddy. He was singing "Mystify" on the karaoke at the "Oddies" in Seaham before I talked to him. Says he remembers how you used to sing "Mustang Sally" together when you were 18 years old. Marlon lives in Seaham, He has two kids and a good job. He will make a Guestbook entry for you as soon as he can. Meantime he is delighted to hear from you.
Ed Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Monday, March 12, 2007 at 16:05:12 (PDT)

Just to say seaham is a nice place to live the only thing we could do with is a swimming pool and hope that all peole of seaham will back the campain to build one as we need one for the whole town.
ann marie
Seaham , - Monday, March 12, 2007 at 15:51:48 (PDT)

I am an ex SMS pupil 1961 - 1966. I think I have only met about four or five of my schoolmates since 1966 and I wonder what happened to them all! Retired as Finance Director of a University in 2003. I now have the time to spend on my family history so if anyone has any information about the Coopers, Pattisons, Swan and Robinsons from Seaham please send it on as it may be relevant to my research. Best wishes, Fred
Fred Cooper
New Herrington, - Monday, March 12, 2007 at 15:51:06 (PDT)

Sheila Howard, nobody is knocking Seaham really. It's all relavant comment on the fact that if we love Seaham so mutch, why are we no longer living there?
Brian Greenfingers
- Sunday, March 11, 2007 at 16:32:56 (PDT)

Why not have guest comments numbered (1.2.3.etc) so other guests wishing to answer need only contact number ? whatever & do not have to scroll through the whole list. I only access this site occasionally & was delighted to find Angela replying to a message I replied to her ages ago. Incidentally can I please have Angelas email Ed???
Elizabeth Hassall
Remuera, Aukland - Sunday, March 11, 2007 at 16:32:15 (PDT)

This for Angela who says I can ask the Ed for her email address so how about it Ed? Angela we are probably only related slightly via the Murphys as there are so many of us. My Dad Peter died in 1958 aged 63. I believe he was born in UK, his father from Ireland was married three times. As I understand my Dad was almost the youngest of about 11 children of his Fathers second wife.How do I contact you? Elizabeth (Arlene)
Elizabeth Hassall
Remuera, Aukland - Sunday, March 11, 2007 at 16:31:11 (PDT)

At last! The guestbook being used as I am sure it was intended. I read with interest the letters about my old home town and I visit there often, in fact I was there only last month. Why do some people want to 'knock' the town. I am impressed with Seaham, particularly the " sea front" My parents lived in Dawdon & Seaham all of their lives and my sister and I have fond memories of our 'home town'. Keep up the good work. Sheila Howard (nee Middleton)
Sheila Howard
Norhtampton, Northamptonshire - Saturday, March 10, 2007 at 15:35:27 (PST)

"John Murtagh" from Oak Forest, IL. I use to live in River Forest, IL. Do miss the city.. but not the cold. I was just speaking to my friend yesterday, who is in Forest Park, IL, she said it was snowing a bit and still in the 30's... I am now in the south, and we have out spring - 75 degrees today.
Jacqueline
USA - Saturday, March 10, 2007 at 15:33:46 (PST)

"Old Foss"? I never did know the doormans name but it sounds like him, or the westlea had a monopoly on "by the book" doormen. Another tail I heard, was during the late 70s early 80s Eric Bristow was booked to play a darts exhibition there. He duly turned up and was told he had to sign in by the old doorman! Bristo thinking he just wanted an autograph signed a bit of paper and gave him it. "No you have to sign in properly or your not getting in" he was told! After a heated discussion the manager was called and Bristo got in! As Bristo was leaving, the doorman was heard to shout "Dont even think about coming back here son, your barred for life"!! Anyone else ever heard this tale? Sam.
Sam Orrock
Edinburgh, scotland - Thursday, March 08, 2007 at 15:52:28 (PST)

many thanks to all of you who have helped with my query regarding the rescue in which my uncle, Jack Owens was involved, it is very much appreciated.
Lorraine
Sunderland, - Thursday, March 08, 2007 at 15:51:00 (PST)

TO LORAINE OF SUNDERLAND. The girl who was saved off the featherbed rocks was called SYLVIA LEE and she belonged PARKSIDE CRES. SHEILA COXEN was drownd while plodging at the waters edge and was dragged in by the undercurrent.SHEILA lived in FOX STREET DAWDON
bill barkess
coates nr peterborough, cambs uk - Thursday, March 08, 2007 at 00:34:45 (PST)

I had ancestors who lived in Seaham Harbour during the 1800's and have been searching for mention of the family name
John R Murtagh
Oak Park, Illinois USA - Wednesday, March 07, 2007 at 15:04:42 (PST)

Sam. Was the doorman you refered to 'Old Foss' from the Westlea. I once rang the Westlea to ask who the Band was going to be the folowing Saturday. Foss asked me if I was a member. I said I did nt know I had to be a member to just ask who the Band was going to be ! He told me the name and then added I would nt be able to see them if I was nt a member. A true legend in club doormen !!!
Forgot M'cards
Stevenage, Herts - Wednesday, March 07, 2007 at 15:03:21 (PST)

Dear Judy C.Of Alliston,Ontario,Canada. The website that you are looking for is as follows.www.durham.gov.uk/recordoffice I research at Durham record office quite often so you should have no problem in finding out what you are looking for.Happy hunting.
W Kirby
Chesterlee St, - Wednesday, March 07, 2007 at 15:02:09 (PST)

Does ahyone know of the "Dray Cart" Inn, Hunters the Buthchers in Frances Street? Both runby ancesters who now ly in the local cemetery. I suspect that they are long demolished. Name was Scully. Thanks
Ian Bone
London, - Wednesday, March 07, 2007 at 15:01:14 (PST)

FAO: Lorraine - my parents have told me the girls name was Sylvia Lee (WORKED AT DOGGARTS) who was saved off featherbed rock when the four others drown. {Shiela Coxon was the girl who dissapeared, supposedly in quick sand OR carried off by the current and was never found} hope this helps.
angela
Seaham, - Wednesday, March 07, 2007 at 14:59:45 (PST)

fao judyc, hi judy try durham records on line, also freebmd, jesus christ latterday saints site , i have just been using ancestry.co.uk you get 12 views for £6.75. and search for free gives you who,s in the household if not sure of area just put a name in , i have just done a friends history took me 3weeks goes from 1837 and all the census 1837, 1841 etc. i got back to 1700s on mine
lorna stokes
scarborough, NYorkshire - Wednesday, March 07, 2007 at 14:58:58 (PST)

Yes Chris I see Wilson Pinkney regularly, He did run a Driving School and he helped me through my driving test.Next time I see him I will tell him that you are on here. I don't get out and about Seaham much so not sure of anyone else, but I think I notice on the site that Richard sais he was back in Seaham.
Lucy
Seaham, Co Durham - Wednesday, March 07, 2007 at 14:58:00 (PST)

Hi Loraine of Sunderland. According to my wife, who remembers the incident, she did not drown, ie , she got out of the water assisted by her brother but four other people trying to rescue her lost their lives. The girl in question worked at Doggarts in Church Street.
Ray B
Bridgewater, Nova Scotia Canada - Monday, March 05, 2007 at 00:18:08 (PST)

Someone put up the web site name for the Durham County records of hatches matches and dispatches I cannot find it again... any chance of repeating it please ?
Judy C
Alliston, Ontario Canada - Monday, March 05, 2007 at 00:16:32 (PST)

Does anyone have any information on the drowning of Sheila Coxon off the Featherbed Rock early 1950s please? My great uncle, Jack Owens was involved in the attempted rescue of a young woman which resulted in the deaths of 4 of his friends. I'm looking to see if this was the same incident, and any information will help me tie things together. Jack was 80 this weekend and recalls that he actually made the coffins for his friends. Thank you.
Loraine
Sunderland, Tyne & Wear - Sunday, March 04, 2007 at 15:58:32 (PST)

Thanks a lot Angela, I have written you an email. No it was not me who visited Marlon, we have not seen each other since he left Australia many many years ago. Hopefully we can get back in touch soon. Thanks again for your help. Cheers. Paul
Paul Morris
Australia /Poland - Sunday, March 04, 2007 at 15:57:20 (PST)

Hi its HOGGY here all the best from Holland
David Hogwood
Tiel, Gelderland Holland - Sunday, March 04, 2007 at 15:56:31 (PST)

To Lucy thanks very much for the picture it's fantastic, do you know if anyone for the class still lives in Seaham or near by? once again thanks. Chris Hopkins
Chris Hopkins nee Veitch
COVENTRY, WEST MIDLANDS - Sunday, March 04, 2007 at 15:55:11 (PST)

Thanks for the info Shelley. Pity, I thought you were my long lost sweetheart. I Thought you were Shelley from Warkworth. We often walked home together from "The Malard" and said our good nights by the garden gate xxx, as I also lived in Warkworth. Sheesh, thirty years ago!
The Real Bill in SA
- Sunday, March 04, 2007 at 15:54:22 (PST)

Well, Jacqueline. I can only assume you are very young.
The Real Bill in SA
- Sunday, March 04, 2007 at 15:53:46 (PST)

I wonder if you can help to point me in the right direction? My great grandfather William Chater was a Thames Pilot, one of his daughters married a master mariner called William Anderson who hailed from Seaham. I presume that the couple met as William transported coal down to London. Anyway, I am planning to visit the area, and whilst I know that GRO information is held at Durham County Hall I wondered if there was anywhere in the local vicinity where records of local people were kept? In the 1881 Census for instance, Elizabeth Anderson is a widow, was there some kind of accident at sea where William could have been killed? Elizabeth then went on, in the 1881 Census, to work on what I presume was William's business as she is recorded as a Shipowner (Nav on Shore). Having no knowledge of the sea I don't know what this means. Do you know where I can obtain any help with all these enquirires when I come over from Oxford in May? Additionally, Elizabeths Son Chater Anderson became a rubber merchants assistane, was the area knownw for buying and selling rubber? Any help would be much appreciated. Kind regards Celia Field
Celia Field
- Sunday, March 04, 2007 at 15:53:16 (PST)

fao paul morris. i have passed on my email to sadie so you may get it soon. paul did you not stay over here for a while about 2 years back? just i remember one of marlons mates staying with him. while i was typing this i rang marlons ex-girlfriend and she is going to ring him to let him know that you are trying to make contact.
angela
Seaham , - Saturday, March 03, 2007 at 15:29:44 (PST)

Thanks a lot Sadie. Would be great if I could get in contact, we used to be good mates, have a lot to catch up on especially his footy team, the Saints. Go Pies :) Marlon would know what it means. Thanks again. Paul Morris
Paul Morris
Australia /Poland - Saturday, March 03, 2007 at 15:28:23 (PST)

to the "Real Bill" hi i didnt live in warkworth sorry i lived in watling avenue but there was a shelly who lived in warkworth
shelly
selby, N.Yorks - Saturday, March 03, 2007 at 15:26:29 (PST)

hi sam i know albert nugent my dad knows him very well. i think you were in the wrong place at the wrong time when you visited seaham it wasnt like that when i was a kid.my cousins would have played in the grove shops they lived opposite the bus stop.aparrently there was a cafe in the grove i cant remeber it but my dad says he does,i think someone called walker had it.
shelly
selby, N.Yorks - Saturday, March 03, 2007 at 15:25:34 (PST)

Hi Shelly, nice to know that things are improving in Seaham! Will have to try & check out the "Club" when I come down to visit. I assume the old doorman is no longer there! Cant remember his name but by all accounts he was a real "jobsworth" if you couldnt produce a members card you didnt get in, even if he knew you!! I did pass through Seaham & stop at the Grove a few years ago (aug2002) I parked at the back where the garages used to be! It was early evening so all the shops where closed. I did try to drive through westlea estate, I got a far as the junction to Warkworth cresent but the amount of abuse that was getting shouted out from the kids on the street made me think better of it! so I did a quick turn around and headed back out. My wife was totally shocked and i was quite surprised. I'm used to kids & even adults asking me about the car or wanting to have a go in it but never felt that sort of hate and intimidation before. Are things still as bad? or was I j! ust in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong car? Anyway, I dont remember any Mcginns, but there again if they lived across the road that was "Eastlea" territory and the "Westlea" boys didnt associate with the enemy!(at least not after school)I remember a Lisa & David ryder? who lived on Wells Cresent. I also remember Albert Nugent?, his dad had the "Times Inn" and I remember the "Tasker" family from "Eastlea"(Elgin Ave?) I'm really enjoying this trip down memory lane! I cant wait until I'm well enough to have a trip down to "Sunny Seaham" Sam.
Sam Orrock
Edinburgh, Scotland - Friday, March 02, 2007 at 16:14:06 (PST)

TO: Paul Morris. I think I can put you in touch with Marlon but I need to have his agreement. I'll get back as soon as I have that.
Sadie Mason
Seaham , uk - Friday, March 02, 2007 at 16:10:36 (PST)

Jacqeuline, I am sorry but i am not the Paul Morris you are mentioning on your message. I was born and grew up in Australia, I posted a note here as I am looking for an old friend of mine who I grew up with in Australia and he moved to England a number of years ago. Best of luck finding the Paul Morris you went to school with.
Paul Morris
Australia / Poland - Friday, March 02, 2007 at 16:08:45 (PST)

foa Angela. Wow thank you for your response, I made a phone call to Peter Punshon's father ( at least I think it was his father ) and left my phone number but never heard anything. I did put my e-mail in my notice but it is not allowed so it was removed. It would be greatly appreciated if you able to somehow put us in contact. He called me a few times when he was still with your friend but I have not heard from him in years.I think if you give Sadie your e-mail then either they will pass this onto me or pass mine onto yourself. Thanks again for responding. Look forward to hearing from you.
Paul Morris
Australia / Poland - Friday, March 02, 2007 at 16:07:08 (PST)

hello colin might see you about to have a drink sometime tell tony asking after him see ya mate
rayjordan
Seaham, - Friday, March 02, 2007 at 16:05:04 (PST)

To the "real Bill in SA" I do read this site...reading over prior years, I could see where a lot of us were rather "naive" on this site and forgot that the whole world reads it. Remember, with age, usually comes "wisdom."
Jacqueline
USA - Friday, March 02, 2007 at 16:04:14 (PST)

Paul Morris, I remember you. You were in my class at Ropery Walk. You once sent to me, via e-mail, a school photo of our class. It was the play, "Robin Hood." I think that was when we were in Miss Dows class - which would have been 2nd year junior. Anyway, if you still have a copy of that photograph, I would love for you to e-mail it on to me. I misplaced the one you sent to me. [Ed will send you my emaill address].I hope you are well. I see by your posting, you are in Australia - Wow! There have been many of us, in our year, who have either moved to USA or to Australia.
Jacqueline
USA - Thursday, March 01, 2007 at 15:31:53 (PST)

Paul Morris you did not leave a email address to get in touch with you or to forward on to Marlon if he has access to a pc. ( Angela we prefer not to add email to entries. If you send your email address to me I will forward Pauls email address to you. Sadie M )
angela
- Thursday, March 01, 2007 at 15:27:10 (PST)

Hello Ray Jordan, how are you doing, hope you are well. still working but home at the moment.
colin shaw
Seaham , Co Durham - Thursday, March 01, 2007 at 15:23:22 (PST)

Raymond jordan hello how are you do you like this website i told you it was good.hope you are all ok up in seaham we are ok in yorkshire.
shelly
NYorkshire - Thursday, March 01, 2007 at 15:22:31 (PST)

Hi Sam cant remember any kids who played around the grove,the pub that you are talking about is still there and has recently been refurbished it is really nice completly different to what it was.Seaham has really changed over the years it is nice to go back and see the changes.I lived in watling avenue not far from the shops my cousins lived on the main road opposite the shops the mcginns do you know them
shelly
selby, NYorkshire - Thursday, March 01, 2007 at 15:21:52 (PST)

fao Paul Morris. i saw Marlon Barrs yesterday he has two children to a good friend of mine who i play darts with he was there seeing the kids. I think he still resides at Peter Punshons.
angela
Seaham , - Thursday, March 01, 2007 at 15:20:51 (PST)

Hey Beardy, are you still out there? Long time no hear! Hey it's hot out here man. In the 40's. Were having a heat wave. I seem to remember a song called that. The spiders are still biting. How was Donnie. I suppose Eddi was good also. We've got Guns n'Roses out here with Evenesence and Three Doors Down. With tickets at 350 for the cheapest, I'll give it a miss. Things could be warming up in Warkworth. Got your parcel. Still knocking back peas pudding mate. Danny's school date was '76. Was he that far behind us. I see it's awhile since that Jackie bird posted! Maybe she is off in the country. If we get lucky she might stay there. If you ARE out there gives us a holla'. Cheers Marra.
The Real Bill in SA
- Thursday, March 01, 2007 at 15:20:07 (PST)

Yeah Shelly, I remember Stan Neals. the off licence too. Tommy Barrons fish shop. Sid Walkers cofee shop. If you came in from the club side Stan's was the first on the left. The off licence was the last on the left. Did you live in Warkworth Shelly? If you did was it 47?
The Real Bill in SA
Pullenshope, Mpumalanga RSA - Thursday, March 01, 2007 at 15:18:58 (PST)

I am interested in finding out if anyone knows anything about my Grandfather Arthur Turner, a surface worker at one of the Seaham Coalmines as far abck as the late 1920'3 - 1930's? His wife was a lady named Ethel Cook and she left him with three children: Audrey, Thomas,Elizabeth and my mother Jane. He placed them in Easington Guardians and they all eventually came to Western Australia and grew up at Fairbridge Farm in country Pinjarra. They are all deceased now but to my knowledge none of them ever saw or heard from them again. Ethel was one of 11? Cook children. I know nothing of Arthur. I would appreciate any guidance / assistance. Warren Smith
Warren Smith
Madeley, , Perth Western Australia - Thursday, March 01, 2007 at 15:17:07 (PST)

Trying to contact Joe Holmes who left a message in the Guestbook in 2002 regarding Alfred MEEK born Seaham Harbour 1871. Alfred was the brother of my GGF Nicholas MEEK. Please contact me Joe
Neil MEEK
Ashford, Middlesex UK - Wednesday, February 28, 2007 at 14:25:29 (PST)

hello tony and colin shaw hope your not working too hard
raymond jordan
Seaham , - Wednesday, February 28, 2007 at 14:24:07 (PST)

Hi Shelly, I remember the Grove well. Cant remember a "wool shop" though. I remember No.1 was a Chemist, No.2 was a butchers, No.3 was the fish & chip shop, No.4 was the "V.G" store, the "pub" was across the end, No.6 was the friut shop, No.7 the hairdressers No.8 the bakers and No.9 the wine shop. I used to live with my Nan in the bungalows next to the shops. I lived there from late 77 to mid 82. I remember lots of kids who lived or played around the "Grove" but cant recall many names. Do you remember any of there names? If anyone knows what happend to the kids, I would love to know. Cheers, Sam
Sam Orrock
Edinburgh, - Wednesday, February 28, 2007 at 14:23:19 (PST)

Does anyone know how " Tony from Spain " is doing ? He was seriously ill last December and I sincerely hope he's on the road to recovery. Tony and I were buddies back in the fifties.
Ray Briggs
Bridgewater, Nova Scotia - Wednesday, February 28, 2007 at 14:22:17 (PST)

Hi Shelly, I do remember Stan Neals, the Wine Shop and the wool Shop, My Mam and Dad had the Hairdressers and the wool shop for a short while! I went to school with Jo-anne from the wine shop and still keep in touch with the family!Dee
Dee
Huntingdon, Cambs - Wednesday, February 28, 2007 at 14:20:54 (PST)

Hi Sam,I do remember Derek's disappearing penny trick! and he always has a knock knock joke too.... great man. The butchers kids were Neil and Andrea Mileham, The Hairdressers kids where Amanda and Andrea Phillips and the fruit shop was Pat Neal... I know Neil had the Kestrel at one point and i do believe all the others did stay in seaham for a while.... you brought back some great memories! Thanks Dee
Dee
Huntingdon, Cambs - Wednesday, February 28, 2007 at 14:20:09 (PST)

Hello my name is Paul Morris and I am looking for a friend of mine Marlon Baars. I believe he is or has been living in or around the seaham area. He is originally from Australia but has been living in England for many years now. I believe he used to live in a house owned by Peter Punshon ( I am not sure on the spelling of his name). If anyone can help me with any information it would be greatly appreciated you can either respond to this message on this forum or send me an email
Paul
Australia / Poland - Wednesday, February 28, 2007 at 14:07:10 (PST)

does anyone remember stan neals shop in the westlea grove,also the wine shop and the wool shop.
shelly
selby, NYorkshire - Monday, February 26, 2007 at 14:27:35 (PST)

judyc what a memory you have , been racking my brains on that house, i used to go for tomatoes, he gave me black grapes , i am remembering mr minns, hindhaughs, sparky nobles and butcher anty thompsons, talking of tap in the steet i used to stand on it , ref. toilets in the middle of the streets, i have a picture of them in princess street where we lived before sea view , also wembley swings, murton street, the pit. my daughter asks me WHAT WAS IT LIKE IN THE OLDEN DAYS !!she thinks belfast sinks are new, i had our old tin bath hung it on the wall for old times sake , have you told them about the toilet paper we had !! sunderland echo
lorna stokes
scarborough, - Monday, February 26, 2007 at 14:26:23 (PST)

Jonathon O'Mara, did you teach at William Dunbar Public School in Pickering in the late 80's, early 90's?
Mike Black Newman
Oakville, Ontario Canada - Monday, February 26, 2007 at 14:25:02 (PST)

Dear Pat,Eastbourne.Thanks for the reply.I know that there were two Kirby families living in the Harbour.There was a Mark Kirby of which I have a little info on.But they are not related to my Kirby's.Well,you win some and you lose some in the family tree roundabout. You must agree ,though,that this is a very interesting website.Kind regards,William Kirby.
William Kirby
Great Lumley, - Monday, February 26, 2007 at 14:23:52 (PST)

Hi Dee. Thanks for the info regarding the "Smiths" Sad to learn of Mr.Smiths death, I never knew "Mr.Smiths" name was Derick! I always called him "Mr.Smith" He was a great man, always had time for a laugh and always showing off his magic tricks, anyone remember the disappearing penny trick? or how about his fancy car? Huge wheels & painted with flames! I was trying to remember the other "Grove" kids names, there was the butchers two, boy and girl, think girl was Andrea. The hairdressers two where girls, Amanda & ? Bakers two where boy & girl and Fruit shops child was a girl. Wonder if any of them are still around? been looking through some of my nans photos, lots of faces i remember but no names! Be most interested if anyone could fill in the names. Cheers,Sam.
Sam Orrock
- Monday, February 26, 2007 at 14:23:02 (PST)

Chris Hopkins I am posting a net addy where you will find a picture of your class .http://www.friendsreunited.co.uk/friendsreunited.asp?wci=photopage&photo_key=13899468
Lucy
seaham, Co Durham - Sunday, February 25, 2007 at 14:41:17 (PST)

to ed sorry about not using the jupiter word but it slipped my mind,and i agree with you i will use the a name neptunite as that is where i am from although i did live in oxford street for a few years. neptunite
Neptunite
- Sunday, February 25, 2007 at 14:38:00 (PST)

Dose anyone remember Brian Oliver? he went to Camden Square in 1953/55. Last heard of in Leicster in the 60s. He did have a younger brother they were always together.
Brian Greenfingers
- Sunday, February 25, 2007 at 14:36:15 (PST)

hi just been on your site found it very interesting.i was born in seaham lived there until i was 17 then moved away to yorkshire,my family still live there anyone know them ray and carol jordan.my grandad was from seaham david hilton there is a photo of him on this site in the football team.
vaughn harrison
selby, NYorkshire - Sunday, February 25, 2007 at 14:35:24 (PST)

To Sam, I know the family very well. Tim lives in Jedburgh,next door to his Mum and His Sister Jo-Anne.He has a shop selling tropical fish!Unfortunatly his Dad Derek died a few years ago. Hope this helps!
Dee
Huntingdon, Cambs - Sunday, February 25, 2007 at 14:34:09 (PST)

Thankyou for the info. NO Name. Like Ed. said use the JUPITER code so he can seperate the junk! Alfie gleghorn had a sister Sally living in Stoke On Trent, maybe he went to live nereby her? Her Husband, Arthur Burton, died of cancer of the lungs some years ago.
Brian Greenfingers
- Sunday, February 25, 2007 at 14:32:33 (PST)

Hi Lorna It was Mr Cunningham who had the greenhouses next to Grogan's. I used to go dowm to get a bag of tomatoes for my mam he always used to give me a yellow one to eat on the way home..... R Masters do you remember what the taps looked like ? The big old lion put the bucket on his feet turn his ear and the water came out of his mouth !!!!!!! Sounds like we all were kids in the dark ages it is a wonder we survived. Do you remember the toilets in the middle of Albion Street I told my grandchildren about those and they asked if that was when Victoria was Queen !!!!!!
Judy C
Alliston(North of Toronto), - Sunday, February 25, 2007 at 14:31:37 (PST)

What a great site! I grew up in seaham during the seventies & early eighties and still think of it as home. I think wherever you spend your teenage years always has a place in your heart. (First girlfriend, first pint, first break up!!) Anyway, I used to stay with my Nan in the old folks bungalows next to Westlea shopping centre, anyone remember little "Sammo"? I used to be great friends with the kids who lived in the shops. Anyone know where they all are now? I left in 1984 I kept in touch with the Smiths who had the "Wine Shop" for a few years but lost touch. Would love to know if there still around. I passed through Seaham a few years ago and couldnt believe the changes!! I hope to be able to spend a few days in Seaham re-living my past later this year and would love to meet up with some of my old pals. Hope ther are some still left!! Cheers Sam
Sam Orrock
- Sunday, February 25, 2007 at 14:30:26 (PST)

No Name, I used to live next door to Matty and Alan Cogden in Malvern Cresent. Any Idea how old Matty was when he died? I too played footie on the dump and sledged down the banks in the snow. On 5th. of November Mrs. Macadoo used to come out with the fireworks. How long has Alan Cogdon been gone?
Brian Greenfingers
- Sunday, February 25, 2007 at 14:29:10 (PST)

Hi William. Thanks for info on Florence Kirby but my Florence married John Greener Robertson Watson in 1926,they had three daughters then she died in 1930. I don't know anything more about her but my grandad married again to Winifred Godfrey (Nellie), my mum Joyce Watson played the organ in the local chapel.
pat
eastbourne, sussex - Sunday, February 25, 2007 at 14:28:21 (PST)

To brian green fingers yes i am afraid so Alan is no longer with us,sorry i couldnt bring you any better news. There are still a fewv of the malvernites left though and even the oxford street and neptune street lot.Ray is still going as is Jimmy heads as i said i am not sure about kenny.Alfie gleghorn moved away but most of the willis familyare still here. ED TO THE AUTHOR OF THIS SUBMISSION: Please use the word "jupiter" in your comment as requested. Also some kind of name might help when others are trying to contact you. It doesn't have to be your real name.
malvernite
- Saturday, February 24, 2007 at 13:57:17 (PST)

To brian green fingers yes i am afraid so Alan is no longer with us,sorry i couldnt bring you any better news. There are still a fewv of the malvernites left though and even the oxford street and neptune street lot.Ray is still going as is Jimmy heads as i said i am not sure about kenny.Alfie gleghorn moved away but most of the willis familyare still here. ED TO THE AUTHOR OF THIS SUBMISSION: Please use the word
malvernite
USA - Saturday, February 24, 2007 at 13:56:28 (PST)

Someone recently was enquiring about the Knack Club in the 60's and names of stewards. Can't remember who they were but my dad Billy Squire was Treasurer and Charlie Dobson was Chairman, if my memory serves me right.
B Squire
Burlington, On Canada - Saturday, February 24, 2007 at 13:52:45 (PST)

To E. Cowell. Thank you very much for the photo and letter you mailed to me. I am 83 years old and my teacher at the S.I.S. was Mr. Powell. A few years ago I was in touch with the son of Pip Yard, the woodwork teacher(he talked with a lisp) My brother, two years older than I was in Mr. Aichison's class.Hope all this brings back happy memories. Sincerely, Jimmy Gilbert, Down-under
Jimmy Gilbert
Balga, Western Australia - Saturday, February 24, 2007 at 13:51:27 (PST)

this book is much improved. well done to all.
popey
Yorks - Saturday, February 24, 2007 at 13:50:26 (PST)

Hi all, found this web site while browsing. Takes me back! I lived in westlea for a number of years during the seventies & eighties. Anyone remember the "wine shop" on the grove? I used to be friendly with the boy who lived there, Tim was his name, anyone know if he is still around? think he had a sister called ann cant remember there surname. Also if anyone knows if Lisa Ryder(windermere road)or any of the familys who lived on west grove are still there I would love to get in touch to find out what they are doing now. Cheers,Sam O.
Sam Orrock
Edinburgh, Lothian - Saturday, February 24, 2007 at 13:49:50 (PST)

i johnny how you doing hope all is well
ann marie
Seaham , - Thursday, February 22, 2007 at 14:56:27 (PST)

To Susan, Re: Viceroy Street. The street is in the same location as it always was only the houses are more recent. Not sure when they were built but probably in the 50's or 60's. Many of the streets listed as Dawdon in the 1901 census and earlier are actually in the area now known as the harbour. Also many of the houses in the Dawdon Area were built after 1900 to house the miners from Dawdon pit. If you find this confusing you're not alone!
Helen
- Thursday, February 22, 2007 at 14:55:42 (PST)

judy c. what happened to elizabeth tweedy do you know, did you know john (fatty) cummings ? he,s mp. for easington his stepbrother was tony caine, rose potts , what did they call that big house next to grogans, he had big greenhouses grew toms. grapes , flowers been trying to remember , you had to go past the grogans house to get to it ?
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Thursday, February 22, 2007 at 14:54:37 (PST)

masters that was my job getting the coal and the water from the street in an enamel bucket, also used to fill peoples coal in for 2/6p dad said that girl will go FAR did not go too far !!! we had coal in for the night , thats how it was available to chuck at you !!Had a word with my brother , about the vardys he knew doris very nice girl , also her brothers he was called up in 1952, then settled in the south . do you remember bobby thomson the comedian, he used to get stage fright , and a wee drop before permformance, collapsed in the dressing roonm in the demi , blood coming out of his mouth they thought he had an hemmoridge, turned out to be beetroot sarneys he,d had with us pint , WHAT CHARACTERS when sea view and dene terr. were pulled down they all went up to new flats in bevan sq, so they all stayed together , harry tweedy lived next door to mum , he was talented sang, painted i bought all his paintings and hung them in my hotel, now retired and st! ill got eight of his paintings , lot of talented men the miners were , all changed at seaham and murton its as though it was never there to me .keep strong
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Thursday, February 22, 2007 at 14:53:33 (PST)

Seahamlad, I will be on the Chat Room line Friday night after 1030.
Brian Greenfingers
- Thursday, February 22, 2007 at 14:51:40 (PST)

To No Name, thankyou for the information about Matty Cogden and Allan as well, I take it Allan is dead? The trouble with asking people for news of old friends usually ends up being bad news! Once again thanks,
Brian Greenfingers
- Thursday, February 22, 2007 at 14:51:06 (PST)

Brian Greenfingers, Matty cogden was rushed into hospital while out potato picking with my brother and bobbo,sadley he passed away.Alan has also gone.My brother said that Alfie gleghorn moved down south.I knew Matty well he used to play football on the dump with us.As forkenny heads i havent seen him for years but often see thier jim and ray clough.Ray is always in the town and uses two walking sticks now.In fact a lot of seaham people are living in the town or seem to be.
No name
- Wednesday, February 21, 2007 at 15:34:13 (PST)

hi to Susan from Weymouth. there is still a Viceroy St but it is situated in Seaham harbour of Seaham near to the Church street shopping area not up in the Dawdon. hope this helps.
A TASKER
Seaham , - Wednesday, February 21, 2007 at 15:33:13 (PST)

..lorna stokes.you ,ve, pulled another string, whats that!in those days,before i could take doris out on sat night,i had to fill the coal bucket and fill the enamel pail with water from the back street tap.i remember it was 7 doors up.i,d stopped singing and knocking on doors by then,...i,d found a good one.,,R.M
R.M.
Stevenage, - Wednesday, February 21, 2007 at 15:32:29 (PST)

Hi Judy C Dad and my brother and sister where all on the amatuers at Murton. I came to the rehearsals often with dad and loved every minute.He was also in a concert party and often beat Bobby Thompson in the local talent contests. He loved the stage and yes he was a lovely man.
Hilary
Sunderland, - Tuesday, February 20, 2007 at 16:25:06 (PST)

My granny, Sarah (nee) Gibson, appears on the 1891 census living with Matthew and Isabelle Jackson at 25, Viceroy st. Dawdon. Can anyone please tell me if this street still survives? I hope to visit and see for myself someday!
susan mitchell
weymouth, dorset uk - Tuesday, February 20, 2007 at 16:24:21 (PST)

r.masters sorry to hear about doris been going through my mind all the people who lived in sea view 7, houses in short sea view 14 in long sea view , names then dene terr. back and front salisbury place , remember doris and brothers , judy berry, tweedys, taylors, god bless her .sorry to hear your prob. my husband going through the same thing , PUT YOUR MITS UP AND FIGHT , SHOW IT WHAT YOU ARE MADE OFF.yes i remember the lads singing on there way home ,had to laugh at you with our veg I THREW COAL AT YOU LOT then had to run and get it back !!! KEEP SMILING
lorna stokes
scarborough, NYorkshire - Tuesday, February 20, 2007 at 16:22:53 (PST)

Brian Greenfingers, would love to have a chat with you sometime in the Chatroom, Friday nights @ 10-30ish is a good time, I feel we have a lot to talk about. On your comments on the Dog killing in Seaham, there are lots of other People just as bad and that is the Folk who take their dogs to be put down, just because they are a bit past it for racing and even though they have many years of useful life, when they could be enjoying their Autumn years, you know its a good thing we don't treat People like that!
Seahamlad
- Tuesday, February 20, 2007 at 16:21:39 (PST)

Hi Gary of USA, sorry to disappoint you but Daphne Crescent is all gone and been replaced with very modern private housing, Beech Crescent, Parkside Crescent and Ash Crescent are still there and only because they ran out of money before they got round to them. I used to live half way up Daphne and usually visit when I return to Seaham, rather sad really as all my best memories were there and now they are all gone.
Parkside girl
- Tuesday, February 20, 2007 at 16:21:03 (PST)

Dear Brian Greenfingers.In reply to your query in the Seaham Harbour Guestbook.I have a Allan Moate Cogden in my family tree.He married a Ann Willis on the 2nd of March,1963,at St John's church,Seaham Harbour.Ann was the 2nd born of John and Elizabeth Willis,nee Hobkirk.Ann is the great great granddaughter of George Kirby, who is also my great great grandfather.George was mate on the Seaham based brig,Lovely Nelly,which foundered off Briar Dene,Whitley Bay,on New Year's Day,1861.A full story of this can be found on the Cullercoats RNLI website.Ann and Allan had at least 3 children according to my family tree.Charles Matthew Oliver,born the 3rd of March,1964,Allan Moate,born the 6th of January,1966 and Elizabeth Ann,born the 5th of November,1969.If there are any relatives out there,put yourselves on this web-site.
William Kirby
great lumley, durham - Tuesday, February 20, 2007 at 16:20:19 (PST)

To Dennis in Ontario, Canada. I shall enquire about Tom and Lord Londonderry and the opening of the Seaham Working Mens Club also known as the Knack, now the The Knack Sports and Social club, and just to say that it is the Centenary of the club this year, so I am looking forward to cheap beer,and pigs might fly. While on about the Club, does anyone know who were the Stewards in the Club in the 60s.
Eric Leighton
Seaham , - Monday, February 19, 2007 at 15:10:47 (PST)

Dear Pat of Eastbourne.I read your letter on the Seaham website with interest.I had a great aunt called Ivy Florence Kirby and she married a Joseph Henry Robinson Watson at St John's church,Seaham Harbour,on the 29th of December,1923.According to my family tree records they had a son,Joseph Henry Watson born 20th of October,1924.He was baptised in St John's, Seaham,on the 5th of November,1924.Joseph Henry was living at Murton at the time of his marriage.On their marriage record he was living at 4,Glebe Crescent,Waterworks,Murton.He was a miner and his father's name was Benjamin Robinson,miner.Ivy's father was called Robert Kirby(deceased)Hope this is of interest to you.William Kirby.
William Kirby
Great Lumley, - Monday, February 19, 2007 at 15:09:49 (PST)

Jupiter To Richard Thorpe from Chris Hopins nee Veitch - Thanks a million for sending your message, it certainly stirred a few memories, fancy forgetting which school I went to of course it was Camden Square.I remember some of the names you mentoined, Wilson Pinkney and Victor Oates, do you know if any one still lives in Seaham? You certainly brought back memories of the teachers especially Mr Reed and Miss Burgess, i always seemed to be frightened of her I don't know why.Yes i would like our E-mail address,you also said you had some old school photoghraps I was wondering if it would be possible to E- mail them to me. Hoping to hear from you again. - Chris Hopkins nee Veitch
Chris Hopkins nee Veitch
COVENTRY, - Monday, February 19, 2007 at 15:08:40 (PST)

To Lucy from Chris Hopkins nee Veitch --- You are right, i did attend Camden Square, my memory is not as good as I would like it to be, thanks again Chris
Chris Hopkins nee Veitch
COVENTRY, WEST MIDLANDS - Monday, February 19, 2007 at 15:07:39 (PST)

Hi Hilary I have some photos of you as a little girl when we used to go to Butlins with your dad;s trips. I was really too young to be on the stage and it was your dad who took me to the auditions for the amateurs and told them that I had to be on the shows.... it worked I was on all the pantomimes and then the big shows with Sheila Kirby Jenny Toft your dad Harry Tweedy and many more They were wonderful times and your dad a wonderful man I still have all the photos of the shows too. You also have a brother called Billy don't you ?
Judy C nee Berry
Alliston, - Monday, February 19, 2007 at 15:06:52 (PST)

I had a go at the Chat Room on Friday night but got no response. It appears to have changed? Who is this awful person Smith who kills dogs for a living? There are much nicer people living in Seaham but this man on Sky News this week brings shame on all who cherish Seaham. I wonder what happened to Huwy Tasker, Dave Walton Titch Willis and his brother Maurice, Ken Head, Ray Clough, Norman Beer, Joe Simpson, Joe Marley, Norman and Jimmy Roberts, Derek and Joe Coffy, Marie Elliot, June Defty, Doreen Cogden, Allan Cogden and his brother Matty, Alfie Cleghorn. I expect they are all enjoying life on Mars?
Brian Greenfingers
- Monday, February 19, 2007 at 15:05:29 (PST)

hi lorna.yes Doris was my wife.i lost her to cancer in1988,but yes we did knock on every door down dene terr on sat nights,the idea was to see the good looking girls that came out.sometimes tho wejust sang in harmony on the way to the dene& home.it was probably your allotment veg that we got pelted with !! happy days,--R.M & B.Greenfingers,don,t know you but congrats on your result i,m in the position you were in so know how you must feel,but i,ll beat it yet&hope to get the same result & visit family in NZ,
r masters
Stevenage, - Monday, February 19, 2007 at 15:04:08 (PST)

Well Sadie, I had a suspision that all was not well in the Mason family. You are right, it is a feeling like no other, its more like relief I suppose. By the way, down in Devon there is a village called "Beer" I think it was named after your Norman - HE's a great man you know!
Brian Greenfingers
- Monday, February 19, 2007 at 15:02:43 (PST)

To Brian Greenfingers, great to hear the news. Have been there too over the last few months with same result. Great is'nt it.
Sadie M
Seaham , - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:44:12 (PST)

My grandparents Tom and Sarah Jane Garrity lived in Seaham and raised 13 children there in the late 1800's and early 1900's. My parents told me Tom and Lord Londonderry established the Seaham Working Men's Club. If anyone has information about how and when the club was formed please contact me. Tom also taught boxing at youth clubs in Seaham. One of his greatest achievements was to train Roland Todd, a British lightweight boxing champion in the late 1800's. Tom died in 1933 and is buried in the graveyard of St. Mary Magdelen Church in Seaham Harbor. His wife, Sarah Jane died in 1945 and is buried in Nottingham.
Dennis Garrity Mumby
Waterloo, Ontario Canada - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:42:19 (PST)

Found this site while looking for family members. The Watson family lived in Longnewton Street, Seaham until the late 1960s. Does anyone remember them? Also Florence Kirby and Emily Knox lived there.
pat
eastbourne, Sussex - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:40:30 (PST)

Strange to see Seaham on the telly - sad to see it`s on such a cruel and horrible subject. A greyhound killing business? If this is what shutting the pits leads to I`m even more against it than before. What`s all this about then?
P Catching
Barcalona, - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:39:21 (PST)

g'day the pages my dads name is george living in busselton aged 95 he left seaham in 1932 was one of a large family grandad james grandma sarah nee robinson sons jimmy,tommy,frankie,jack,alf and fred daughters lizzy,catherine,and helen grandad and sons jimmy,tommy. george worked in the harbour ,dont expect many paople remember any of them thanks
david page
busselton, Western Australia - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:38:28 (PST)

my dad came from seaham born 1911 left in 1932 came from large family 10 children dad was george brothers jimmy tommy alf jack franky and alf and fred sisters lizzy cathrine and helen my grandmother was a robinson sarah any one remember any of them grandad james sons jimmy tommy george all worked in the harbour
David Page
busselton, Western Australia - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:37:17 (PST)

Got a little mixed up as it was such a long time ago but I do remember Doris. Joan I believe spent some holidays with you down in Stevenage . I remember Doris as a petite quiet person but I know my sister loved her dearly. Lorna Bunker was also another of her friends and that is where I got a little confused senior moments
Hilary
Sunderland, - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:36:06 (PST)

I know the LUNDS who lived in fox st as we lived opposite them .she might well remember my sister GAYLIA and her brother george did a paper round with me for foggins down church street?
Bill Barkess
coates, cambridgeshire - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:35:09 (PST)

alan lovett, do not know how far you have got wuth your family history ,so far john stamp wallace born june 1890 birth reg. at easington 10a 456 married martha smith 1915id.22698.1, martha smith born june 1890 reg. at easington 10a 450, you can get these certificates if you ring office at peterlee with these numbers then you can go backwards once you get parents names , don,t know if you have done this ? loads of free search engines bdm, durham records on line , church of latterday saints, they list who,s in the household biggest records on line good luck in your search , national archives, 1837/ i have done mine back to 1750 !!
lorna stokes
scarborough, - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:34:02 (PST)

FAO,james richard lawry. U.S.A www.penzance.co.uk/on line. has a site similar to this one .may be of help. R.M
r masters
- Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:32:37 (PST)

I just found the website & it,s fascinating looking at photo,s of places that I remember & places that I haven,t a clue about. I came to Australia in 1954 & have been back once in 1984 so things have changed a lot. I still follow Sunderland after all these years & will visit again if I can find the money but I,m afraid I will always come back to Australia to live. It,s just such a wonderful place to live!
Richard Lawson
Western Australia - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:31:41 (PST)

hi hillary , nice to hear from you.i remember you,& little billy .i married doris vardy a couple of months after joan married allen,they holiday,d with us every year in stevenage until joans sad end,if i remember right doris and allen dug the weeping cheery tree!! ISAKURA!! from our peterlee garden for your garden wnen we first moved south, i still keep in touch with allen and the !! KIDS!!! still send xmas cards to UNCLE RON but i haven,t been back to gods country for some time owing to ill health,but the G/book keeps me in touch and brings back so many good memories. looking back over the entries and reading about the rex, olympia,cosy,the clay pit ,the nack and dawdon and SAT.night dances that so many of us enjoyed in our youth really makes one appreciate the time and effort that the MASONS put into this site,i can,t thank them enough and long may they continue to bring friends& memories together R.M
r masters
Stevenage, - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:30:36 (PST)

if Janice Spence Martucci, Nr.Paris, France still requires information on the Spence family please get in touch as all the names mentioned are on my family tree.
Ken Henderson
Houghton le Spring, Durham - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:28:58 (PST)

I notice that this site has a good track record of helping family history researchers, so thought I would ask if anyone can help unblock any of the deadends I have reached. Although born in Seaham myself I left as a tot. I remember visiting my nana Annie Slee / Williams (nee Forster) at Frank Ave, Deneside. Her father was John William Forster (m.1899 New Seaham), but I cannot find details of his birth. I can trace links to Seaham back to (gggm)Mary Ann Baker b.1839. Her husband John Burgess (m.1858) appears to have come from Scotland, but I know no more. Also, my grandfather John Williams (b. seaham 1905 d. 1951). His parents were William Thomas Williams & Emily Price (m. 1900 Seaham). I cannot find birth info for either, but think they came from Wales. Any help would be greatly received. anyone who could use the information I already have is welcome to get in touch.
Paul Martin
Surrey - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:27:49 (PST)

The site gives a good explanation of Seaham's assets.
William Alan Place
Seaham , England - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:26:20 (PST)

Hallo Seahamlad, nice to hear from you again. I'm feeling like the cat that got the cream at the moment because I have just been told by my Doctor that I'm clear of cancer after fifteen months of treatment (and misery) Its all over bar the shouting. I've already booked Holidays. I've got my life back like the TV add states.Yippee!
Brian Greenfingers
- Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:25:12 (PST)

Hello Dougy,It was me asking got you mixed up with someone else.I remember your mam and dad,they drank in Parkside Club when my mam and dad had it,Doris and Eddie.They lived on Parkside Crescent then.If I remember rightly you went to school with my late husband Bobby Reay.
Lynn
Seaham , - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:24:12 (PST)

Lorna,Peff knew your name was Potts and he says its nice to hear from you.Good to know some people are still around.
Lynn
Seaham , - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:23:26 (PST)

walter riley helloyes at the rex mr patten did get you up on stage when it was your birthday, yes walter you are right his daughter was patricia rock, i had her autograph , and it was her daughter who came now i rember you walter we were in the juniors together then we were seperated from the boys in senior class you lot went upstairs us girls downstairs, yes i got it wrong curries lived in dalton le dale , mr grogan was the pit manager mr curry was undermanager , its him i got a lot of stuff about murton and pictures, i was friends with barbara finn used to go in the back cafe her dad would make us crisps then had tea fish and chips her nickname was professer finn, mine pansypotter, the house near st josephs was her grannys, would love to hear from her . Wilfred pickes recorded at the pit canteen, my cousins sang, i was one of those kids looking through the window GIV EM THU MONEY BARNEY, ive tried to trace the recording at the bbc, i am going to ask sir j! immie saville to fix it for me , he is doing it in scaborough now for funds for the hospice keep digging away
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:22:45 (PST)

r. masters, was your wife doris vardy ? she lived in dene terrace, i remember the vardys, kept pigeions, we had one behind salisbury place, only grew veg. and rabbits, dad ate hobbilty, my wabbit, never forgave him put him in a pie , remember joan wills as well, think they were older than me. WAS IT YOU KNOCKING ON OUR DOOR r. masters ? every sat. night same time every week The grass was greener cos we girls were good looking , more trivia to come
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 16:20:55 (PST)

LYNN REAY;-SORRY CHUCK,BUT YOU'RE WRONG ABOUT MY IDENTITY,TRY AGAIN AND SEND YOUR GUESSES TO;- I.CAMPBELL,C/O PARKSIDE CLUB....OH B!^*+@}>!!!S!,AH WELL LYNN,I NEVER WAS ANY GOOD AT KEEPING A SECRET WAS I? (IF I WAS I MIGHT HAVE STILL BEEN MARRIED!),IC,X
PARKSIDE BLOKE
Seaham , - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 15:35:41 (PST)

Hi R Masters Remember me I am Joan's little sister.I too remember the party's and yes Lorna Bunker was like a sister to Joan. Wonderful memories
Hilary
Sunderland, - Wednesday, February 14, 2007 at 14:21:57 (PST)

to jim gilbert photo on way e cowell
E Cowell
Seaham , - Wednesday, February 14, 2007 at 14:21:09 (PST)

Can anyone inform me as to the state of Daphne Crescent? I haven't been there since visiting my Grandmother Bamborough in 1981. Is it still in good health or has it been torn down?
Gary
Knoxville, USA - Wednesday, February 14, 2007 at 14:20:31 (PST)

i think seaham will be the best place to live your life with diffrent things that we do in seaham
lucy
Seaham , uk - Wednesday, February 14, 2007 at 14:19:32 (PST)

Well, I don't know how active this site is, but, I would like to write to, anyone from the Penzance area. I am a decedant of James Lawry, previously a UK citizen of the UK. My grandfather lived in the Penzance area, and was employed as a miner, his wife Eliza Ann, was the mother of six children, at that time. They immigrated to the US, about 1890's, or early 1900's. To the best of my knowledge he was from a large family, as well. There reported other brothers, william, thomas, richard, possibley a benjamin. not sure of sisters, as they were never mentioned as much. Please, I'm the only remaining boy, from the original bloodline, and I find it most important, to re-link, with my family members, in the UK. Can anyone help me??
James Richard Lawry
Whitmore Lake, Michigan USA - Wednesday, February 14, 2007 at 14:18:44 (PST)

Sombody called lyne asked if i was related Ernie and Veras who had the Londonderry no My father was Known as Mo Robson or Holiday ,He worked at Dawdon pit untill he retired in the 80,s and died about eight years ogo,my mother was Anna she was polish she died tree years ago. I ased if any body knows the where abouts of a old friend called Ian Dieghton Who used to live in Dawdon back in the sixtys he came from quite a big family.
Dougy Robson
St Austell, Cornwall uk - Sunday, February 11, 2007 at 12:25:36 (PST)

I,m hoping that anyone can help me with my family tree. I,m trying to find descendants of John Stamp Wallace of 29 William St
Alan Lovett
Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire uk - Sunday, February 11, 2007 at 12:24:25 (PST)

lorna stokes,my memory comes & goes but your letter pulled a string,it brought to mind the new year parties at harry wills house,with jennyraine&harrytweedy entertaining as well as the rest of the concert party that dropped in, my wife,girlfriend,, at the time was the friend of harry,s daughter joan,both joan & my wife doris were like sisters,both are sadly gone but your letter reminded me of happy times.&JUDY.C.you must have been on stage with joan wills harry,s daughter in those times ..the people in sea view& dene terr must have been fed up with the door nockers as us lads from the nack went home via the dene at w/ends....Why was the grass always greener away from where you lived ?? again thanks for the memories
r.masters
Stevenage UK, - Sunday, February 11, 2007 at 12:22:48 (PST)

Brian Greenfingers, Went to see Frankie Lane some years ago when he appeared at the "Heart of the Midlands" nightclub near Nottingham and he was brilliant, still have his LP bought that evening in the original wrapper, He was pushing it a bit agewise then, but still great, hope you're well Brian, always considered you "one of the good Guys!"
Seahamlad
- Sunday, February 11, 2007 at 12:21:52 (PST)

Hello Lorna and Judy, thanks for the info on the stones ,and all the other valuable info on Murton. To start with I do remember the Rex saturday matenees,and going up on the stage when it was your birthday. The owner Mr Patton would invite children up to sing a song ,or have the audience to sing happy birthday. He was a kind man, and I beleive his daughter was Patricia Rock. a Hollywood film star. The reason I beleive it's true was because a young girl aged about ten came to stay with the Pattons ,and attended our school for a short time. She would dress in the most expensive clothes,(and stood out a mile against us ruffians ) It was said she was Patricia Rocks daughter. Could be wrong. Now the Olympia and Empire were owned by Mr and Mrs Currie, she managed the olympia ( Lop house ) and he ran the Empire. They lived in a lovely house in Dalton le Dale. Lorna you said a Mr Curry was the pit manager. I think he was undermanager . Mr Grogan was manage! r when I was in Murton ,I went to school with his daughter Clair. Finns fish and chip shop behind the terrace, It's a coincidence that of all the girls in Murton your the second person to ask if I knew Barbra Finn. I was asked by a very good friend of hers, in her childhood Margaret White, who lived near her, close to St Josephs school. Margaret and her used to put the portions of salt in their packets of crisps . They were one of the first to market potato crisps. I,m not sure if Margaret is still in touch with her ,but I corrispond with Margaret on a regular basis who now lives in Canada. Wilfred Pickles... I remember him coming to Murton and listening to the broadcast on the wireless.( I think it was held in the miners hall )and Wilfred saying all he could see in the windows was childrens faces peering in. Keep digging those facts...
walter riley
east anglia, uk - Sunday, February 11, 2007 at 12:21:14 (PST)

alfred ruddock, been doing family geneology wondered if you could help me .as you live near murton. My grandfather was married in dalton le dale in 1905, there names were george potts and ann matilda turnbull lowes , i thought he was buried in dalton le dale there is a george potts there , now i have found out he lies in france, arras memorial aged 38yrs, dad never spoke about them now found his mother remarried 5months after his death , dad and his brother were brought up by thier grandmother .i seem to remember seeing a plaque in murton victoria club stating in memory of george potts wondered if you could take a look for me sometime and take a photograph, it would be very appreciated can give you my email address also would pay you , its my missing link also he was a sword dancer 1904, got a photo of him , the plaque was in the entrance or anybody who reads this as i know no one in murton now, sorry to be a bother .
lorna stokes
scarborough, N.Yorks uk - Sunday, February 11, 2007 at 12:09:12 (PST)

judy c Got the name wrong it was jennie noble who was the drama teacher at murton, racking my brains on facts and figures !!!!!
lorna stokes
Scarborough, N.Yorks uk - Sunday, February 11, 2007 at 12:07:50 (PST)

lynn reay. tell peff, he got me and audrey chucked out of the cosy pictures, making us laugh and throwing water bombs BARRED never went back, also he took the naylors on they were a big family 13 of them , we were all scared of them, not him , took ralph, andrew, on, it was our entertainment watching him and his mate . Same at the tanner hop.Audrey lives in scarborough we still have a laugh about it was 1955 god bless PEFF
lorna stokes
Scarborough, North Yorks UK - Sunday, February 11, 2007 at 12:06:53 (PST)

judy c would have loved to see your programs, jenny toft used to be on the pantomimes, she was drama teacher at school can you remember her ?The rex was the biggest building in murton held a lot of people, wood benches near the stage cost 3pence , i used to lay on them with selling ice cream there,all over it , backstage everwhere !!!Mr patten owned it, he lived at dalton le dale his house was called ROSE DENE, he sold it to the halls, think his name was james, he had 2 sisters called maisey and minnie who always tut tuted at every picture they went to do you remember them
lorna stokes
scarborough, uk - Sunday, February 11, 2007 at 12:05:46 (PST)

alfred ruddock. so sorry your mum died i can see her know , she was beautifull, it was 1952 i was 12yrs old , my brother is george william potts we lived at sea view murton, isabelle used to come to tea , played with me did my hair we liked her he met her at the knack dance, then he was called up at 18yrs old went into the raf.1952 for 3yrs what happened i dont know he came home for 3mths. then went back to wiltshire where he now lives , Will ask him he clams up and calls me a nosey KID, it,s a pity i would have loved to have spoken to her , have never forgotten her .so sad alfred
lorna stokes
scarborough, UK - Sunday, February 11, 2007 at 12:04:10 (PST)

Thank-you,unknown.I think we are on the same Hobkirk's.My Great Aunt Annie Ethel Kirby married Thomas Hobkirk on the 1st of September,1917,at St John's church,Seaham Harbour.They had at least four children,Elizabeth,Thomas John,Ivy Florence and Doris.The Ivy Willis you mention is the daughter of John Willis and Elizabeth Willis,nee Hobkirk.Ivy married William Spurr at St John's church on the 1st of August,1970.Great Aunt Annie Ethel had a brother,George Thomas Kirby,who died on Armistice Day,1918,in a German prisoner of war camp.He was a witness at his sister's wedding to the above Thomas Hobkirk.My grandfather, Henry Kirby and my Great Grandfather William Kirby were born at Seaham Harbour.
William Kirby
Great Lumley, Co. Durham - Sunday, February 11, 2007 at 12:03:11 (PST)

Thank-you,unknown.I think we are on the same Hobkirk's.My Great Aunt Annie Ethel Kirby married Thomas Hobkirk on the 1st of September,1917,at St John's church,Seaham Harbour.They had at least four children,Elizabeth,Thomas John,Ivy Florence and Doris.The Ivy Willis you mention is the daughter of John Willis and Elizabeth Willis,nee Hobkirk.Ivy married William Spurr at St John's church on the 1st of August,1970.Great Aunt Annie Ethel had a brother,George Thomas Kirby,who died on Armistice Day,1918,in a German prisoner of war camp.He was a witness at his sister's wedding to the above Thomas Hobkirk.My grandfather, Henry Kirby and my Great Grandfather William Kirby were born at Seaham Harbour.Regards, William Kirby.
William Kirby
Great Lumley, - Friday, February 09, 2007 at 16:16:31 (PST)

Hi Lynn Reay - thank you so much for the information you gave me about your father-in-law Tommy Reay. My mother will be glad to have this information too, she remembers Tommy well, being close to his sister before she died. Mum also has done the family geneology and it will be good to have names and dates etc. Its nice to know the name Robert lives on too, certainly the Robert who your husband Bobby was named after and my Grandfather were the closest of brothers - it seems strange to 'talk' to someone whose own son and I share a paternal 'Grandfather' - Thomas Reay. Thanks again Lynn Dorothy
Dorothy Hawkins nee Reay
Harrogate, NYorkshire - Friday, February 09, 2007 at 16:15:04 (PST)

walter riley FACTS 1930 murton vic opens,1904 olympia opens1910 council school opens 1912 empire opens 1913 king of uganda visits 1915 demi opens 1926 new bandstand on land behind coop ? 1928swings built top of willies 1930first talkie at empire (on trial) 1937pinders circus at land on demi field 1949 workers playtime visits pit canteen (wilfred pickles) my cousins elenor and nancy taylor sang on the WIRELESS, THE ROCKS WERE PART OF THE BANDSTAND PULLED DOWN TO BUILD HOUSES ON THE LAND, got dads old books out and diary he noted all dates of happenings in murton also he was a union man for 25yrs at murton got my own museum here walter !! i used to be esther williams jumping off the big one who were you?there is a plaque in the vic about my grandfather, who i never knew died in ww1 going to ring to see if they can take a foto for me MYSTERY SOLVED
lorna stokes
scarborough, north yorkshire - Friday, February 09, 2007 at 16:13:49 (PST)

Hello Lorna. Just to let you know my mam Isabella Ruddock (nee Guy)sadly passed away feb last year. She married my dad Alfred Ruddock from Queensbury rd Deneside. She was engaged to a man i believe was called Greatman ? who joined the forces. Alf Ruddock jnr Dalton-le-dale
Alfred Ruddock
Dalton le Dale, Co Durham - Friday, February 09, 2007 at 16:11:04 (PST)

MORE trivia you harbour folke have a claim to fame ,this seaham harbour lass born in the CASTLEREAH HOTEL, her parents went bankrupt, she left home and went to scarborough in service, she met a farmers boy from burniston on the outskirts, married had 3 children tom, charles, frank anybody guessing ? CHARLES LAUGHTON , proud of his roots, also have got all the top on the pops recordings from jimmy saville who lives nearby its smashing i am going to have a go to put on dvd.jimmys 80 now all memories i am a walking musuem thought you would like to know
lorna stokes
scarborough, north yorkshire - Friday, February 09, 2007 at 16:09:38 (PST)

Hey Walter... the amateur's shows were at the Rex not the Olympia I was on those shows. Harry Wills was the comedian and good at it Teddy Dryden used to produce them.I was the smallest dancer on all the pantomimes I still have the programes. The first one I was only 9 years old. The dressing rooms at the Rex were under the stage and to get on the stage at one side you had to squeeze past the boilers that heated the place. Good times !!!!!
Judy C
Alliston(North of Toronto), Ontario Canada - Friday, February 09, 2007 at 16:08:32 (PST)

for walter riley and r,masters harry wills had a cocert party he travelled all clubs the singer was jennie raine, her daughter was jean,and margret harper and i used to go in the mini bus with them every saturday,harry used to say LET THE SHOW BEGIN it was great ,sometimes harry tweedy used to come he sang with jennie , happy days can you remember the school competions at the rex every year NITTY nora wilson singing jerusalem, she won , every year all schools in seaham area competed
lorna stokes
scarborough, north yorkshire - Friday, February 09, 2007 at 16:07:17 (PST)

ref. the olypmpia, when it was closed the seats were stripped out and it became a garage for a time for don smith coaches.i went in and had a look nearly ran to the front so steep, now house built on it does anyone rember barbara finn her grandma lived nr, the olympia her parents had a fish shop back of woods terr.i think she went off to south africa to live
lorna stokes
scarborough, north yorkshire - Friday, February 09, 2007 at 16:06:11 (PST)

hello lyn reay i lived in murton in sea view, he won,t remember me but i remember him and his teddyboy outfits, after jonnys dance, they took a short cut down the dene knocked on doors and ran, also tell peff used to watch him fight at the top of the terrace he always won , audrey seamor was in love with him, she had his foto , sadly lost touch with most of friends after i left murton , ask him who his mate was i think it was ray head or george, memory aint what it was
lorna stokes
scarborough, north yorkshire - Friday, February 09, 2007 at 16:05:03 (PST)

hope this message gets through, it's the second time I have posted it, both times with the header of jupiter... message for Chris Hopkins, I remember you Christine (Veitch), along with the few names you mentioned from the leaving class of 1962. Last I heard and saw of Sonia was when I visited the old Girl's Grammar School buildings on Princess Road, they are the ones that Seaham Camden Square Secondary School took over, the year we left. Note it was Camden Square you and I went to, not to be confused with Seaham Secondary School as that was the name given to the 'SIS'. The Janet you mention would have been Janet Mitchell. Along with others, we were the first ever pupils in Seaham to be in a GCE course back in 1958, and that's because we couldn't get into Ryhope Grammar to its being oversubscribed the year we started Camden. Other classmates you may well remember, were, Kathleen Waters, Kathleen Howe, Carol Redman, Wilson Pinkney, Victor Oates, William Marlborough, John Middleton, John Rushbrook, Dennis Gustard and myself Richard Thorpe, I can't remeber for certain, but I also think Matty Stoves was in our class before he moved to the A stream when Wilson moved into our G stream class. I still have somewhere, a photograph of our class ,probably about 1961 or even 1962 taken outside the top prefabs. Will check it out to see if there are any other names I may have missed that you didn't alreday mention. You might also remember these namnes, Richard Reed (our first ever form teacher), Polly Burgess, Chris McGlen, Chris McHugh, Gordon Brown, and Jim Robinson ( he became head of Dawdon County Juniors and they took over the part of Camden that was the original girls grammar school. That's where I last heard of Sonia as she was a teacher for Jim Robinson at that school under the name of Sonia Haddick, she had married Malcolm Haddick former teacher and cricketer of Seaham Harbour Cricket Club. You'll also remember 'Pigeye' Allen the music teacher and the never to be forgotten head Harry Clark. Unfortunately, when I left school I went to Durham Technical College and not Peterlee College like the rest of the class and so I lost contact with everyone. I also left Seaham, but in 1970 when I married, and have just returned home from the sunny climes of Sunderland where I had moved to. I will provide an email address if you respond to this and want to contact me. Richard Thorpe
Richard Thorpe
Seaham - I came back, - Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 15:17:12 (PST)

Parkside Bloke,Hello I,ve sussed who you are by your typing,see i,m not as daft as you thought.Anyway I remember the story about old Bob Reay in Parkside club,he was a character as was Nan his wife.Anyway take care IC,see you around.
Lynn
Seaham , - Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 15:14:07 (PST)

Dougy Robson,Are you Ernie and Veras son who had the Londonderry.
Lynn
Seaham , - Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 15:13:08 (PST)

Hello Dorothy Reay, Tommy Reay the boxer was my father in law sadly he died in 1984 after a spell in the miners home at murton.I was married to Bobby who passed on in 1993 aged 43.We have a son Tommy who has a son called Robert,passing the name on.There was a write up in the Echo when Old Tommy died about his boxing.I remember once in Parkside Club a man trying to be funny with Tommy and he asked him to give him some tips on boxing and Tommy punched him and he fell to the ground.He was nearly 70 at the time and the other bloke was in his 50s.
Lynn Reay
Seaham , - Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 15:12:28 (PST)

Hello Lorna,I,m living with Peff Reay and he was wondering what your maiden name was.I can remember his drainpipes when I lived in the duke.
Lynn Reay
Seaham , - Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 15:11:29 (PST)

hi walter riley asked my brother about the rocks he dosen,t know either, will get to the bottom of it .Have some paintings of murton done by pat mcgowan, mr curry was pit manager who stayed with me brought them for me , can copy them also mr. dance who ran south hetton hop stayed as well pictures of princess st, wembley swings, pit head, murton st.
lorna stokes
scarborough, north yorkshire - Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 15:10:49 (PST)

Hey Walter.. It is true that Gracie Fields performed at the Olympia. Do you remember the new floor that dipped down in the middle, it was like walking up a hill to get to the front. Another piece of useless information.. did you know that Syd James died on the stage of the Sunderland Empire ?
Judy C
Alliston, Ontario Canada - Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 15:09:48 (PST)

for walter riley.sorry,a senior moment.the name in my last article should be harry wills not billy.trouble is these moments are coming more often, now where was i. R M
r masters
Stevenage, - Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 15:08:45 (PST)

Mrs Stephenson, there are two Sayers listed in the phonebook, one in Eve Street Horden (A Sayer) and one in Peterlee (J E Sayer) if you go to bt.com you'll get the numbers and they may be able to help you find news of your Friend.
your friend
- Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 15:07:59 (PST)

hello walter, yes gracie fields did appear at the olympia, there was a plaque in there , i sold elderado ice cream as well!!!!you went up in the world progressed to the projectors yes there was dressing rooms they were damp also at the rex sheila harrison and i used to go in the dressig rooms , after the saturday mattinee i would go on the stage she would operate the curtains LIGHTS UP lil ole me appeared every sat, afternoon,dosey dobie was the operater , bruninies sold better ice cream BUT NO JUKE BOX, nando pioli made believe he could not speak da englis, he used to be listening to us HE was born in sunderland, every tues he got dressed up to go and visit a cat house he said he was going to his mother to PRAY, rita his sister was older than us , she had a child to a policeman out of wedlock, mum kept me up with the news , when the demi field was built on those rocks appeared, still racking my brains, will ask my brother , sing this walter NANDO PIOLIO HE! SELLS ICECREAMIO STRAIGHT FROM THE FRIDGIO he used to hit me with his dish cloth, when i went back with my daughter hit me again , so i got his cloth and slogged him back ttfn
lorna stokes
scarborough, north yorkshire - Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 15:07:22 (PST)

does anyone remember the GUYS at seaham , her name was isabel guy she will be in her seventies now my brother got engaged to her, then went in the raf and stayed in the south
lorna stokes
scarborough, north yorkshire - Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 15:05:42 (PST)

i have all of franky lanes records my favourite is jezebell still play them, got them from nando piolis juke box in murton , he woudn,t sell me the juke box, but got the records jonny ray, elvis, ike and tina turner , lulu, nando died in his 50s
lorna stokes
scarborough, north yorkshire - Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 15:04:53 (PST)

hello walter i remember you i sold ice cream in the rex i think i went to school with you , mrs pioli couldn,t speak much english nando could her son you would not reconize murton now, i left in 1957 ,had a hotel for 25yrs found judy c we lived in the same st.walked to school with her found this site by accident its great, those rocks are still there !!! jonny maxwell and his wife sylvia got divorced , he had an airstream chrome trailer next to the empire they were jewish traveling show people, my friend eileen from south hetton babysat for them , and he got caught with her by sylvia , i used to go in the back room at nandos to listen to the juke box as well. olympia gone, houses built on the site , went home before the pit was pulled down did a video of murton mum and dads grave , brassies,the dean , stobies, school, owt i could think of , i used to shovel coal in for 2/6p and sell ice cream for 1shilling a week,i ended up buying houses doing them up , sel! ling them on for a profit not bad going for a murtonion lovely to hear from you keep in touch
lorna stokes
scarborough, north yorkshire - Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 15:03:57 (PST)

William Kirby, I knew a lot of the willis family and the hopkirks that is if that is who you ment.I knew all the willis family from both ends of malvern.The one i think you are on about lived near the queensbury road end just past oxford street,there was john ,liz,ivy and i think a couple more.The hopkirks lived in Ryhton cres,there was Dek,barney and a girl whos name i cant remember.The other willis family lived near neptune street they were mainly all lads apart from cassy.I used to go around with gene and denis.I dont know if the william spurr is the same one i knew but his dad was the stewart at the demi down the harbour.
neptinite
- Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 15:01:52 (PST)

FOA,walter riley,i read about your memories of the old olympia.&the old dressing rooms out the back.i probably often bought 2 ices off you for myself & the murton lass i eventually married ,i wonder if you remember the shows the murton amateurs used to put on there ,terrific entertainment and the comedy usually done by a certain billy wills,who i believe also had a show that toured the clubs i also spent some time in piolli,s, bet the kids nowadays couldn,t last the pace we used to live then. happy days RM
r masters
Stevenage, uk - Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 15:00:53 (PST)

to Chris hopkins nee Veitch if the people named in your message were in your class at school then you attended Camden Square nor Seaham Modern School as Sonia and Alan Holmes attended Camden Square one year older than me
Lucy
Seaham , Co Durham England - Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 14:59:46 (PST)

Hello Lorna, thanks for finding out about the standing stones in Murton still being there, I must try and find out their history. You've come up with some more names from the past,mainly the Olympia cinema. I don't know if it's still there, as a young lad (aged 14) I used to sell Ice cream there during the interval to earn a few bob to buy a bike. I was issued with a tray with a light on the front advertising Elderado ice cream. I did this for a few month,(you may have bought an ice cream from me) then moved up into the opperating box rewinding the film ,and laceing up the projectors. I don't know if you knew that behind the stage was old dressing rooms. And I dont know how true it was, but Gracey Fields was said to have appeared there one time. Bruninies I thought was an ice cream shop that no one ever visited. Now Piolies, that was a different story. that was the hub of Murtons meeting place. Remember old Mrs Pioli she would come out into the shop in! her green pinney asking what you want, she couldn't speak much English,and if it wasn't a cornet or ice cream sandwich you wanted ,she was lost. You asked me about Rita I didn't know her. I left Murton in 1958 to join the RAF at the age of 18 ,so possibly I didn'tknow her.
Walter Riley
east anglia uk - Wednesday, February 07, 2007 at 14:59:03 (PST)

My all-time favourate singer has just died. Frankie Lainge,he sang a lot of good solid songs such as "I Belive," "Cool Water" and a whole lot of other songs. He was nintey three. So long Frankie.
Brian Greenfingers
- Wednesday, February 07, 2007 at 14:57:09 (PST)

Can any Sunderland football supporter tell me why Sunderland are now referred to as "The Black Cats". Surtees Gleghorn
Surtees Gleghorn
Taunton, Somerset - Wednesday, February 07, 2007 at 14:56:29 (PST)

i remember a banjo spur from my early days at dawdon pit. and he used to make all the new starters sing songs . and if yoy refused he would give you a little thump or slap .but it was all taken in good sport .happy days .
popey
Yorks - Wednesday, February 07, 2007 at 14:55:06 (PST)

Hello my maiden name is Lund, from Dawdon, Seaham. I was born in Fox Street, 1949. Father Harry,(Fatty) Lund, mother Freda Sister Audrey brothers George and Harry Went to school Dawdon Infants and Camden Square Secondary, anybody out there remember our family? I have lived in Australia for 30 years now. Just discovered this website and I'm very interested to see if any of my old friends are tuned into this site. Perhaps they will remember "Fatty Lund" who worked at Dawdon colliery, who loved his pidgeons and his beer!
Freda Lund Rutherford
Mt Warrigal, New South Wales - Wednesday, February 07, 2007 at 14:54:06 (PST)

Dear Neptinite,A very interesting letter.The Maxted's that come into my family tree is a George William Maxted who married my great aunt,Sarah Jane Kirby at St John's Church, Seaham Harbour on the 5th July,1913.At the time of their marrige Sarah was living at 31,William Street,and George at 22,Viceroy Street.They had a daughter,Georgina,born 26th of February,1919.The family were now living at 57,Viceroy Street.Also in my family tree is a Ivy Willis who married William Spurr on the 1st of August,1970.Ivy's parents were John and Elizabeth Willis,nee Hobkirk.Regards, William Kirby.
William Kirby
Great Lumley, durham - Wednesday, February 07, 2007 at 14:52:27 (PST)

There was a Spurr family lived in Ash Crescent for years #28 The daughter was called Jenny she married my uncle Jim Watson they had 5 children. I am sure that the dad's name was Adam but I could be wrong they also had a son called George
Judy C
Alliston, Ontario Canada - Tuesday, February 06, 2007 at 15:05:09 (PST)

Hi Ed. Thanks for your help passing my details onto Raymond, he's been a great help to me as have Seaham Family Hisory Group. There was a posting from Elizabeth Remuera in New Zealand recently which I have just replied to. If she comes back to you for my email address please pass it onto her.
Angela Hutchinson
Sunderland, UK - Tuesday, February 06, 2007 at 15:03:54 (PST)

Hi Elizabeth Remuera, New Zealand. Thanks for your reply. What was your dad's name? I have a Thomas Murphy (a Granduncle), his father Michael Murphy was my Grt grandfather and his brothers were James, John, Peter & Thomas. Feel free to ask Ed for my email address.
Angela Hutchinson
Sunderland, uk - Tuesday, February 06, 2007 at 15:02:48 (PST)

Brian greenfingers you are right Geordi spurr was nicknamed (Banjo) why i dont know but there was also another family lived up Parkside called spurr and at one time used to run the demi down the harbour,i believe one of them was called billy the son i think,i dont know if thats who Terry has been getting mixed up with. William Kirby i knew a family called maxted that lived in Oxford street in the 50,s the daughter was called Mary and she married billy Jones and they had a large family who i belive still live in seaham,I know willam as we call him still does he is a friend of mine,there was also a son called john maxted but he moved away.There was also a uncle called geordie burny who used to go around with his rattle shouting out things.
neptinite
- Monday, February 05, 2007 at 16:07:19 (PST)

fao. walter riley the rocks you talk about still there , dad did tell me what they were not from mars !! do you remember scobies, hindhaughs printers , rita his daughter was miss easington at one time, sparkie nobles, brunninis ice cream nr the olympia flea pit, nando piolie
lorna stokes
scarborough, NYorkshire England - Monday, February 05, 2007 at 16:05:43 (PST)

Hello every-one on the Terry MCKenna website,only kidding Terry!!!,anyway Terry,I remember when your granda was on the door at Parkside club,and everytime Dek JORGENSON,(RIP)used to come in,Dek used to give him loads of jip and call him all the owld so n so's under the sun,(only clarting about of course)and your granda used to try and chase him to give him a clip.but of course Dek was only young and your granda was about 147 so he never caught him did he?,anyway,one thursday night,Dek signed on at the door then gave your granda a load of stick as usual and ran away,but this time he didn't get chased.I dont know wot was wrong with the owld bugger that night,but he waited till Dek bent over to put his money in the pool table,then WHACK!!!,Dek only got a brown-ale bottle over the back of his heed didn't he!.Next night,there was bother in the club and the cops came,when they got to the door they asked why there wasn't a doorman on and when they were told it was cos he was barred! out they just shook there heads and left!.If he'd have been alive now i bet he'd have an ASBO on him! Now that was a character Terry!(WITH RESPECT TO YOUR GRANDA)---PARKSIDE BLOKE
PARKSIDE BLOKE
Seaham , - Monday, February 05, 2007 at 16:03:52 (PST)

to michael wilson, after reading your bit write up and karens reply my i add my little bit. my dad is myers son of john tasker if you want to know anything more please feel free to email.
angela tasker
seaham ( still ), uk - Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 15:14:54 (PST)

I came by accident to your site i am a murtonian , happy memories esp. jonny maxwell, and nando piolis at murton, also think i know water riley enjoyed my read of your site. left murton 1957 still get homesick
lorna stokes
scarborough, north yorkshire - Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 15:13:48 (PST)

FAO MICHAEL WILSON IF YOU WISH TO HAVE ANYMORE INFO ON THE TASKERS PLEASE DROP ME AN EMAIL.
A TASKER <ANGIE@BABIE69.FSNET.CO.UK>
Seaham , - Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 15:02:52 (PST)

found this site by accident, took me down memory lane remember judy c also walter riley i am a murtonion went to tanner hop, knack ,and of course jonnys re f, rocks walter talks about i remember them. any seaham lads remember pef reay. or ray head they had lovely dranpipe suits went to murton jonnys, i knew jonny maxwell and his daughter my friend used to baby sit we saw inside his caravan never forgotten the crockery and fittings i was in another world, also spent time at the COSY got thrown out for talking .
lorna stokes
scarborough, NYorkshire - Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 15:01:47 (PST)

Hi I wonder if anyone remembers me, I left Seaham in 1962,I lived in various streets in seaham,Wynard, Mount Stewart,Helen and Edith. I attended Seaham Modern School i remember some people from school,Sonia Herbtson,Alan Holmes, Trevor Clarke and Janet.i attended college in Sunderland and then started nursing. I worked at Sunderland Eye Infirmary and Sunderland Royal Infirmary before moving to Coventry.I would lve to hear for anyone who may know me, I usually visit Seaham twice a year and the place has changed so much. In anticipation Chris
Chris Hopkins nee Veitch
COVENTRY, WEST MIDLANDS - Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 15:00:15 (PST)

I am trying to find out if a relative of mine is still alive. Her name is Jean Sayer (nee Boyd) and she lives in the First/Second/Third Street area of Horden in Peterlee. Her home is opposite a pub which is int he middle of the street. Can anyone help? This lady will be in her early to mid-Seventies. Thank You.
Mrs Stephenson
Middlesboro, Cleveland - Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 14:58:29 (PST)

I have just found this site and I would like to know if there are any Kirby's, Hudson's,Hobkirk's,Saunder's,Watson's,Doxford's,Stanbridge's,Maxted's,or Henry.s,as they all feature in my family tree.My great grandfather, William Kirby,was born at Seaham Harbour in 1849.One of his sons was my grandfather, Henry Kirby.A lot of the Kirby girls married husbands with the above surnames.If there is anyone out there,I would be pleased to hear from you.Although I was not born at Seaham I am down there at least once a fortnight,I love the place. Regards,William Kirby.
William Kirby
Chesterlee St, - Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 14:56:31 (PST)

i am looking for my father trevor currie who lived in folkstone in kent and was married to my mum marilyn contct me at jnktrac3@aol.com
tracie currie
cwmbran, torfaen uk - Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 14:55:24 (PST)

Sorry Terry Mackenna, but your Spurr info. is not correct. The Geordi Spurr I knew (nick-name Banjo) Lived a stones throw from the High Collery Infant and Junior school that existed in the old days. After moving from Cornish Street ( Long demolished) into steel houses erected the same time as the Prefabs in the late 40s early 50s.
Brian Greenfingers.
- Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 14:52:10 (PST)

ive been trying to find my cousin and other family members in the tyne and wear area.cousins name is colin richardson,brothers are alan, michael,paul,sister dawn.parents names are matty [deceased]and pat.
caroline phillips
towcester, northants UK - Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 14:51:24 (PST)

Some one was asking about the maratty Family.I went to school with a Vincent Marraty, he used to live in the Wideback in Dawdon, His family use to run , and train grey hounds,back in the sixtys, I am wondering what happened to a old friend of mine Ian Deighton Who use to live in Dawdon,
Dougy Robson
St Austell, Cornwall - Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 14:50:14 (PST)

hi popey if it is the same maratty family my nans maiden name was maratty they lived at ryhope there was a lot of brothers and sisters my nans married name was robinson i have recently done a family tree on the family it goes back to 1726 a james maratty gave me a lot of information on it if it is the same marattys i would forward this tree on to you regards sharon
sharon osborne
Grays, Essex - Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 14:48:16 (PST)

Hi Terri - or should I say cousin (twice removed)- your grandfather Bob was my mothers first cousin, in those days he was known as Robbie, and Mum wondered what had happened to him, he went off to the war like her & lots of others and people lose touch. Your greatgrandfather was also Robert or Bob and was my Grandfather (who brought me up) older brother. I never met Uncle Bob, he died not long after I was born, but he did call to see me and my Grandfather said went away with a tear in his eye because I looked like the daughter he lost when she was 11/12 - another Winnie - so obviously your mother was called after her. My mother was friends with Winnie and remembers her well as a beautiful girl with such a lovely nature, she too had the blue eyes and 'golden hair' that comes through on the Reay side of the family. Your GreatGrandfather and my Grandfather were very close and both 'adored' each other, I remember by Grandfather telling me about the first war when Bob had tra! velled across half of France on his day off looking for him and how both managed a couple of hours together before having to go back to their own set of trenches, it doesn't bear thinking of. I know about Tommy and the boxing, if you could tell me how both your Grandfather and Tommy faired in life, my mother would be delighted to know. It's so nice to find 'kin' we must keep in touch.
Dorothy Hawkins (Reay)
Harrogate, UK - Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 14:47:13 (PST)

To E. Cowell.requested address as follows; 9, Duggan Court, Balga,W/A, Australia 6061
Jimmy Gilbert
Balga, W.A. Australia - Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 14:45:56 (PST)

Hello and a happy new year to anyone who knows me it would be nice to meet up with old friends i visit the website often but don't go home often enough any reunion's let me know
Helen Mounter (nee Robinson)
Bristol, UK - Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 14:44:36 (PST)

Angela Hutchinson Sunderland, UK - Saturday, December 30, 2006 at 14:01:59 (PST) Hi I'm probably no relation to you. I lived in Seaham Harbour for a few years.My Dad was a Murphy.
Elizabeth
Remuera, New Zealand - Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 14:43:26 (PST)

Anyone interested in information about Colin Siggens who lived in Parkside/Seaham in the 70's-80's please contact me, as I have been marrried to him for 16 years!!
Lesley Siggens
Hartlepool, UK - Sunday, February 04, 2007 at 14:42:12 (PST)

Hi folks. We're sorry to announce that the Guestbook will be closing for maintainance from 18th January until the week beginning 5th February. You may still send in your submissions and they will be added to the Guestbook when it is live again. PLEASE REMEMBER TO ADD "jupiter" in your Comment slot. It is working very well but some contributers are still not using it. When the Guestbook is live again those messages which do not contain "jupiter" will be lost with the junk submissions.
Eddie Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 at 11:59:16 (PST)

to jimmy gilbert you know my address, please send your address and i will post photo back to you.
Ernest Cowell
Seaham, Co. Durham - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 at 11:53:41 (PST)

Poor Norman, having his age bandied about on the GB. We of Norman's generation know only too well that telegrams from the future Monach (I wonder, will it be William or Harry?) in 33 years time when we are 100 years old will be forthcomming. Untill then, we do'nt wish to be reminded of our ages thank-you. By the way, who's upset Mr. Man?
Brian Greenfingers
- Wednesday, January 17, 2007 at 11:52:33 (PST)

Tojim gilbert.I have photos of your old house .There are some houses at the bottom of the Avenue with the same brickwork around the front door as you have got in your photo .I.m afraid i dont know how to Email the photos
E. COWELL
Seaham , Co Durham UK - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 at 11:51:46 (PST)

Happy New Year parkside bloke who ever you are.I did take a minute to remember friends but it took longer than that as there were so many,gone but never forgotten.
Lynn Reay
Seaham, - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 at 11:50:42 (PST)

jupiter hi brian greenfingers the info jaqueline gave you on geordie spur was a little mixed up geordi gilley married joan spurr and had a son called mark gilley i think the geordie spurr belongs to the spurrs from parkside the only male s in andreas fathers family i can think of are jack billy and alan terry mckenna
TERRY MCKENNA
Seaham, UK - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 at 11:50:01 (PST)

hi sadie yes your right his name was danny who lived at dawdon he also had a son called danny about my age
terry mckenna
Seaham, UK - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 at 11:49:14 (PST)

i love seaham its the best place to live in the world and its buzzin!!
sophie cahill
Seaham, Co Durham UK - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 at 11:48:00 (PST)

i remember norman mcenna, did he used to play dartsfor the blandford.and is he still around . can anybody thro any light on the maratty family, a rare name and not many about.
popey
Yorks, - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 at 11:47:00 (PST)

hi dorothy my mother winnie is now nearly 68 years old her father was called robert or bob as most people called him he had a brother called tommy whom i am told was a good boxer in his younger days terry just correcting spelling mistakes
TERRY MCKENNA
Seaham, UK - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 at 11:46:15 (PST)

hi dorothy my mother winnie is now nearly 68 years old her father was called robert or bob as most people called him he had a brother called tommy whom i am told was a good boxer in his younger days terry
terry mckenna
Seaham, UK - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 at 11:44:39 (PST)

hi Terry McKenna, Norman Beer lived at the low colliery. He had a brother Danny who lived in Dawdon. By the way for those of you who are interested he is two years over retiring age.
Sadie mason
Seaham , - Monday, January 15, 2007 at 15:51:31 (PST)

hi colin hall you might remember my mother she is about the same age as you by a couple of months her name was winnie reay she had three sisters moira shiela and barbara they lived in dawdon cres my dad was norman mckenna he was a deputy at the nack pit then acting overman i can remember a norman beer from dawdon they lived in one of the colliery houses i think it was ilchester street
TERRY MCKENNA
Seaham , uk - Monday, January 15, 2007 at 15:35:39 (PST)

You know, you come on this site and to read the comments left by certain individuals makes you think that if you do not immediately upon leaving school embark on a tour of the rain forests and live in some corner of some foreign field you are some sort of brain dead yokel! But we all have to live somewhere and that somewhere might as well be Seaham. Because Seaham is great and will become greater still once the redevelopment has taken place. For a start, we have one of the oldest churches in Britain and as people did not build stone structures on a whim in days of yore, even our ancient ancestors must have known just how great Seaham was. Now everyone wants to get in on the act and are paying a fortune for the privilege to live in Seaham. So much in fact, that national newspapers cannot believe how much money property is changing hands for! Should the fancy take me I can jump in a car and in just over an hour I can be in York, or I can be over in the Lake District or up in the borders of Northumberland well on my way to Scotland. Now if I lived in London, New York, Paris or Munich after one hour in a car I would be about 100 yards from my front door! About 35 mins inland is the glorious sight of Durham Cathedral and as I sit sipping my coffee gazing at its lofty towers, I can think smugly to myself that I am sitting in a World Heritage Site. Meaning that there is nothing out like it in the world and it is right on my door step! So put that in your pipe and smoke it! Should the travel bug hit me I can jump on a plane and within four hours be on a small ship touring the turquoise seas of the Greek islands watching dolphins play with a glass of G&T in my mitt. So let’s give it up for SEAHAM!
Mr Man
- Monday, January 15, 2007 at 15:34:20 (PST)

Hey Walter... Johnny's dances were in the hall at the bottom of Woods Terrace he later made it into bingo only. The miner's hall was further down and round the corner from the terrace. Yes I do remember that big shiny caravan outside the Empire he also had a daughter called Marrisa I wonder what happened to her. Never made it to the South Hetton dances just to the knack and Dawdon
Judy C
Alliston, Ontario - Monday, January 15, 2007 at 15:32:11 (PST)

HELLO TO ALL IN SEAHAM,AND A SLIGHTLY BELATED HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERY-ONE ON THE WEB-SITE,PARTICULARLY LYNN REAY,TERRI MC'KENNA,AND HELEN ROBINSON. ALSO COULD WE PAUSE FOR A MINUTE TO REMEMBER THOSE OF OUR FRIENDS WHO WE SPENT SO MANY HAPPY TIMES WITH,BUT ARE NO LONGER HERE TO SHARE MORE. I'LL NOT EVEN ATTEMPT TO NAME THEM,AS THERE ARE TOO MANY TO LIST,AND IF WOULD HATE TO MISS ANY OUT.THEY WILL BE FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS,THOUGHTS,AND MEMORIES,AS WILL THOSE WHO ARE STILL HERE!
PARKSIDE BLOKE
Seaham , - Monday, January 15, 2007 at 15:31:04 (PST)

Terry - the Reays were quite a prolific family, to help me trace if your Mother is related do you know the name of your Mothers father and also the age of your Mother - if I'm not sure I can be certain my Mother (Olive Reay) who now at 82 still has an excellent memory for names and places in Seaham will be able to tell me. Dorothy.
Dorothy Hawkins nee Reay
Harrogate, NYorkshire - Monday, January 15, 2007 at 15:30:05 (PST)

searching for the atkinson genes....
James Atkinson
Norhtampton, England - Sunday, January 14, 2007 at 15:41:10 (PST)

Jacqueline, just to say please do not take any notice of the P. Catchings of this world. He is more to be pitied than blamed do'nt you think? It's a beautiful spring-like, sunny day here in the south of England, the sky is blue, God is in His heaven but I wish all was right with the world. I mean the Holy Land and all the regions in the Near-East as we called it when I was a handsom young soldier and visiting WW2 war-graves when I was searving in Bengazi in North Africa. The rows and rows of grave stones I saw were all young men aged between eighteen and twenty one. At Christmas time I attended a service at the Italian Cathedral in Bengazi. I aim to visit Durham Cathedral before I pop my clogs, my last visit there, was to be confirmed by the then Bishop of Durham, the late Dr. Ramsy. Realname: Brian Greenfingers
Brian Greenfingers
- Sunday, January 14, 2007 at 15:39:31 (PST)

Jacqueline, thank-you for all that Spurr info. It is good to hear about people I knew and perhaps went to school with many moons ago. Thank-you also Jacqueline for remembering the fact that I was not in good health some time ago. Well, it was cancer that took me suddenly. That was just over a year ago and the treatments (chemo and radiotheripy) seamed to last forever and you hang about in limbo. Luckily for me I am a Christian, I prayed and so did the congregation at my Church. 'I got my life back.' I will mention one Lady friend of mine named Elaine. She too had the same cancer as me but her's had spread to her lung and liver. Elaine would telephone me before she died and say: I'm terminal Brian but I remain positive and I want you to be the same what a brave Lady. Realname: Brian Greenfingers
Brian Greenfingers
- Sunday, January 14, 2007 at 15:38:25 (PST)

Brian [Greenfingers; is that your real name?], you have amazing recall! Yes, I did play Toad at the High Colliery, and also Tiny Tim, with only one line "God Bless Us everyone".Who are you really? I'm not a Salmon by the way. My eldest sister, deceased, married a Salmon, and I have a nephew and a niece from that marriage, the latter I met again in May for the first time in over 45 years, but I'm not related to the Salmons otherwise.
Colin Hall
- Sunday, January 14, 2007 at 15:37:07 (PST)

Any one out there remember my dad John Thomas Howe born 1922 at Hetton le Hole died Nottingham 1962.spent much of his youth in Seaham,worked as a coal miner.Was living with a lady called Hannah. NOTE: John please use the word "jupiter" at the beginning of future entries. This allows us to find legitimate entries and ignores junk. Shortly we will stop searching the junk and those messages which do not contain "jupiter" will be lost.
john howe
Canberra, ACT Australia - Saturday, January 13, 2007 at 16:42:10 (PST)

family tree. especially my uncle, Great War hero,George Thomas Kirby.Died as a P.O.W,,In Germany, 11/11/1918.Born Seaham Harbour,William Street.
William Kirby
Chesterlee St, - Saturday, January 13, 2007 at 16:35:49 (PST)

"Brian-green Fingers" To my knowledge, Geordie Spurr is a relative of Andrea Spurr; of her father's side, I believe. Geordie was married to Joan, and they had several children together, one of their son's is called "Mark." I can always remember, Mark was the image of his father. There are a few "Spurr" families in Seaham. One of the other relatives to Geordie Spurr, and Andrea Spurr, is a "Julie Spurr" who use to live in Hawthorn Square. I think Barry Spurr,(38 years old)and George Spurr,(about 40 or so) are brothers, their mom is a lady named "Mary" Spurr. That family use to live in Cottage Road. Barry was in my class at infant and Junior School. I believe, That family are relatives of Margaret Spurr, who lives in Deneside. She had 2 daughters, Paula and Joanne. Joanne, who was a dear friend, sadly died of Breast Cancer a year ago. It was Joanne, (and my friend, here in New York) who actually inspired me to become involved with the Susan G. Komen Breast ! Cancer Foundation. I run the races for a fight for the cures for Breast Cancer - and I run it in memory of Joanne. Anyway, how are you doing? I remember your e-mail you had sent to me about year ago, and I now hope your health is doing much better! Take care.. Jacqueline.
Jacqueline
- Saturday, January 13, 2007 at 16:32:05 (PST)

Hi Ann J - the Dorothy Reay that lived at Deneside is my second cousin her Grandfather (Bill) and my Grandfather (Harry) being brothers. I lived with my Grandparents at Vane Terrace and then Melrose Crescent.
Dorothy Hawkins nee Reay
Harrogate, NYorkshire - Saturday, January 13, 2007 at 16:30:05 (PST)

SIS stands for Seaham Intermediate School which it was before it became a Secondary School
Lucy
Seaham , Co Durham - Saturday, January 13, 2007 at 16:28:51 (PST)

to mick smith I can remember Leo smith had the Oddfellows when i was young i lived in the duke then after that tommy and molly stewart lived in the oddfellows
lynn edwards
Seaham , Co Durham - Saturday, January 13, 2007 at 16:28:09 (PST)

To Michael Wilson; My grandad was John Tasker, and he lived in Back Railway Street. He was born in 1905, and had a brother called Robert. He married Ivy Neilson, and their children were; John, Mary, Myers, Marion and Ivy. If this information has been any help, I could try and find out more.
karen carruthers(foots)
Seaham - I came back, Co Durham - Saturday, January 13, 2007 at 16:27:04 (PST)

Hey R masters.. we forgot one..senior moment I guess.. What abot Dawdon Parish hall dances. After much mind serching the grey matter came up with Mr Juy and Mr Turnbull as being the music we danced to.They played at Dawdon and the Knack. Need a rest after all that thought.
Judy C
Alliston, Ontario - Saturday, January 13, 2007 at 16:26:06 (PST)

Jupiter. Hi everyone. I would like to thank those who manage this excellent site for providing me the means with which to contact an old school chum, Marshall Oliver, who was at Byron Terrace school with me in 1960-1961. Marshall saw my comments on line and contacted me, much to my delight.Thanks again for providing such a wonderful service! Jonathan O'Mara
Jonathon O'Mara
Whitby, - Saturday, January 13, 2007 at 16:24:11 (PST)

When I attended the SIS between 1941 and 1944, those three letters expanded to Seaham Intermediate School. I passed the eleven plus in 1941 but could not afford to go on to the Ryhope Secondry as it was then known. Surtees Gleghorn
Surtees Gleghorn
Taumton, Somerset - Saturday, January 13, 2007 at 16:22:33 (PST)

Hello Judy C. You mentioned in your last entry the dances at Johnny's in Murton. Weren't they held in the miners hall ? I do remember Johnny Maxwell ,he was the local showman, he lived in a beautiful chrome plated caravan behind the Empire . He was the first to bring danceing and bingo to Murton. They were great times ,Rock & Roll had just been born. We kids could have our own style of dress, drain pipe trousers, Teddy boy suits. and the girls wore flaired dresses.before that we looked like smaller models of our parents. Did you ever get to the Tanner Hop at South Hetton.? now that was a fair walk home to Murton, but it was worth it just for kiss and cuddle under the clock at Easington lane .
Walter R
East Anglia uk - Saturday, January 13, 2007 at 16:20:53 (PST)

Well, Colin Hall(or is it Salmon?) You certainly pulled yourself up by your boot strings. Looking in the New Zealand Herald, It do'se not give me any enthusiasum for your new country and what about the street gangs that plauge NZ. I will stay right here in my own back yard, my own England. Last week was our last payment (it's taken 60 years) to pay our lend-lease bill which Churchhill negotiated with the USA in wartime Britain. You were five or six when it all ended, same as me. We all suffered and you have deserved all the luck that has got you where you are today. I remember at school you played 'Toad'in Toad Of Toad Hall, you played Toad very well I remember.
Brian Greenfingers
- Saturday, January 13, 2007 at 16:19:14 (PST)

"P Catching" that was a very unkind remark to make. You have never met me, or spoken to me. You have, however, read my comments. I would have made a very beautiful mother, kind, gentle and loving. To make those remarks to any woman over the age of 35 or so, (even if she says she is content being "child-free") is really rather cruel. God made women with a natural tendency to be the "nurtures." Not everyone has been given the blessing of "motherhood." If I had been, I would certainly not have been one of these mom's who spent her time going out on the town. I would have been a very dedicated mother, teaching Christian values, virtues, temperance, gentleness, kindness and teaching to accept all for who they are.. no matter what circumstances one is in. I would have been a very positive mother, who always finds positive things to say about her children. I have, however, had many other blessings in my life, and like I have said, "My life is truly in the hands of the Lord." One cannot ever plan when one wants to get married or when one wants to have children... those plans are unrealistic and if it is meant to be, and "God's Will" it will happen. "P Catching" I am sorry if I have came harsh on you, but your comment was harsh and cruel. I am sure I would have made a lovely mother - but God has had other plans for my life and his plans have been greatly acce! pted and appreciated.
Jacqueline
- Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 15:23:42 (PST)

Brian [Greenfingers], yes, some of us have been extremely lucky in terms of making the best out of life. We can look back at life, but we can only live it looking forward, and in that respect I've been very fortunate in grasping opportunities as they came along. Believe me, my lifestyle has been vastly different to what I was born into. I came to NZ on a whim as a 23-year-old with all of eight quid in my pocket,[now there's optimism for you!] and enjoyed two successful careers, and a wonderful family on the way. I married a NZ girl in 1970, still married 37 years later; we have three great kids aged from 35 to 30, and four grandkids from 12 t0 5, and a superb family home which was paid off many years ago. All three of our offspring went to University , and have done well in their chosen careers.Now, if anyone had said that to me while in 4A at the SIS in 1955, when the NCB came to the school to sign you up for the pit, I would have put it down as a fantasy. Norman! Beer is well past 65 by the way! I'm 67 next month, and he must be close! Sadie will know! Seaham Secondary Modern, as it was when I went there, was always known as the SIS, because that's what the motif above the Assembly Hall said; probably still does!
Colin Hall
New Zealand - Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 15:22:39 (PST)

"Terry McKenna" Sorry I mispelled the spelling of your last name, In the previous message to you. Anyway, yes, I had a lovely Christmas, thank you for asking.
Jacqueline
USA - Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 15:20:36 (PST)

"Terry MCkenna" So against children!! What on earth is that kind of question???? My whole career I have worked with children.. And I would have made a beautiful mother too. It has just never been in God's plans as yet for me to marry or have children. So, instead, I have embraced my life, my gifts and talents and made beautiful impacts of the lives of others. I never stayed in Seaham, because there was a "Whole New" world out there to explore!
Jacqueline
- Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 15:19:46 (PST)

Just stumbled across this site by accident ! I work in London but still live in Seaham & was feeling a bit homesick when I found this site. Cheered me up straight away. Tremendous for the town to have such a high quality site to promote its history & perhaps more importantly its future. Anyway I'm going to show the Yanks I work with that Seaham really does exist ! Keep up the good work.
roger
New York - Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 15:18:57 (PST)

my dad john thomas howe lived around the seaham area for sometime is there anyone out there that remembers him or are there any relatives that can help me.he moved to nottingham and if he was still alive he would be in his eighties, he was a coal miner and his family were originally from hetton le hole and around that area.
john howe
canberra, ACT Australia - Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 15:18:00 (PST)

P.Catching, Spain dose go to peoples heads.It seemes to have gone to yours alright. Jacqueline, I did know (and went to school with) Geordie Spurr and brother Billy. I wonder if there is a connection to Andrea?
Brian Greenfingers
- Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 15:16:43 (PST)

To Dorothy Hawkins (nee Reay) ... would you be the Dorothy Reay who once lived at 25 The Avenue, Deneside, close by your Dorothy Rowntree?
Ann J
- Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 15:15:59 (PST)

My grandfather jocker Smith had the Oddfellows Arms in Church street in the fifties - any info or memories would be appreciated. There was also Gerry and Eva Smith who had the Vane Arms at the bottom of church street.
Mick smith
- Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 15:15:20 (PST)

Many, many thanks to Seaham Harbour guestbook and particularly Raymond and Seaham Family History Group. Only 12 days after posting my first request for information on my Grandmother Norah Hutchinson (nee Murphy) of Seaham who died when my father was just 2 years old, I met my Dad's cousin. Thanks to the help of Raymond may Dad can now speak with a family member who knew his mother before she died. How valuable that is and how nice people can be. I am indebted and eternally grateful for all of your help. Angela
Angela Hutchinson
Sunderland, - Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 15:14:11 (PST)

I can remember jonny the storeman as we called him,his singing wasn't too bad,he supplied my aunt with bread and as she had 13 children it was a lot of bread.If anyone can remember me i would love to hear from them,I went to st cuhberts and st josephs secondary modern.
chris rollins nee marrin
Seaham , durham England - Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 15:13:09 (PST)

judy c of canada.piano player and drummer?? in those days it was sophisticated music.the nack dancers enjoyed the billy wilkinson trio!!billy on piano.can,t remember other 2 but we had some great nights there& at jonnies but it was a hell of a walk home to the nack in the winter .. happy days..RM
r masters
Stevenage, uk - Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 15:11:57 (PST)

To E.Cowell. Thanks for your offer to send me a photograph of the house we rented from 1928 to around 1940. I was born in 1923 but you may have gone to school with one of my six brothers
Jimmy Gilbert
Balga, WA Australia - Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 15:10:46 (PST)

"P Catching" that was a very unkind remark to make. You have never met me, or spoken to me. You have, however, read my comments. I would have made a very beautiful mother, kind, gentle and loving. To make those remarks to any woman over the age of 35 or so, (even if she says she is content being "child-free") is really rather cruel. God made women with a natural tendency to be the "nurtures." Not everyone has been given the blessing of "motherhood." If I had been, I would certainly not have been one of these mom's who spent her time going out on the town. I would have been a very dedicated mother, teaching Christian values, virtues, temperance, gentleness, kindness and teaching to accept all for who they are.. no matter what circumstances one is in. I would have been a very positive mother, who always finds positive things to say about her children. I have, however, had many other blessings in my life, and like I have said, "My life is truly in the hands ! of the Lord." One cannot ever plan when one wants to get married or when one wants to have children... those plans are unrealistic and if it is meant to be, and "God's Will" it will happen. "P Catching" I am sorry if I have came harsh on you, but your comment was harsh and cruel. I am sure I would have made a lovely mother - but God has had other plans for my life and his plans have been greatly accepted and appreciated.
Jacqueline
- Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 15:09:36 (PST)

To Mr. E. Cowell. Thanks for your reply, yes I would greatly appreciate a photo of the house which we moved into in 1928. I reckon that from the amount of rent my mother paid to the council, she must have bought it a few times over.
Jimmy Gilbert
Balga, WA Australia - Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 15:07:46 (PST)

dear dorothy hawkins my mothers maiden name was reay winnie was her first name her sisters were moira shiela and barbara from seaham
TERRY MCKENNA
Seaham , uk - Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 15:05:32 (PST)

To R Masters. I am sure that all the Vardy family have gone. There were lots of pigeon lofts in Dene Terrace do you remember the men shaking the baby food tins full of seed so that they could clock the birds in after a race.I guess they still do that. I used to go to the Knack dances do you remember the names of the piano player and the drummer? Turnbull seems to come to mind. Did you go to the dances at Johnny's on the terrace at Murton? They were alternate weeks from the Knack dances.. Happy days !!!
Judy C <judern@hotmail.com>
Alliston(North of Toronto), Ontario Canada - Wednesday, January 10, 2007 at 16:13:54 (PST)

Terry McKenna, please ask Andrea to send to me her e-mail - thank you. Jacqueline.
Jacqueline
USA - Wednesday, January 10, 2007 at 16:12:10 (PST)

Good things like this G.B. are always targeted by the cyber deadbeats. Jacqueline, Andrea Spurr, I wonder if there is a connection with Geordie Spurr? I went to school with him - people called him "Banjo."
Brian Greenfingers
- Wednesday, January 10, 2007 at 16:11:25 (PST)

Does anyone know of a 'school reunion' for 1962 leavers from Seahm Modern School which took place in 1997? I wish I had known about it would have loved to have gone. I was in the A stream at Seaham Modern and went on to Peterlee Technical College. If anyone knows if there is going to be another reunion (after all we are all hitting the swingings sixties now!) I would appreciate them letting me know. Its 38 years since I left Seaham and although memory is blurred certain names still stick with me like Jean Grey, Maureen Gorse, Gillian Veitch, Ann Stevens, Marjorie Rowntree, Joyce Shaw and Carol Frampton just to name a few - if any of you are out there would love to hear from you and I hope the years have been kind to you all.Does anyone know of a 'school reunion' for 1962 leavers from Seahm Modern School which took place in 1997? I wish I had known about it would have loved to have gone. I was in the A stream at Seaham Modern and went on to Peterlee Technical College. If anyone knows if there is going to be another reunion (after all we are all hitting the swingings sixties now!) I would appreciate them letting me know. Its 38 years since I left Seaham and although memory is blurred certain names still stick with me like Jean Grey, Maureen Gorse, Gillian Veitch, Ann Stevens, Marjorie Rowntree, Joyce Shaw and Carol Frampton just to name a few - if any of you are out there would love to hear from you and I hope the years have been kind to you all.
Dorothy Hawkins nee Reay <Timconer14@aol.com>
Harrogate, Yorks - Wednesday, January 10, 2007 at 16:10:21 (PST)

Hello Tina, yes you are right, i new your brother stephen very well,. along with the rest of your family. joan your mother. thornton, gary, barbra yourself , the younger ones i carnt remamber. stephen is sadly missed by me and my family. what are you doing in nottingham its a long way from home. i hope you are keeping well. look after yourself and keep in touch from time to time regards Colin, Dean, Tony.
colin shaw < shawsyftm73@yahoo.co.uk>
Seaham , durham England - Monday, January 08, 2007 at 14:02:45 (PST)

Yes, Terry McCenna, the Andrea Spurr, who I was wishing Merry Christmas to, is the daughter of Elaine and Jack. I have known Andrea since we were 5 years old, and was best friends for years. For years and years I have sent her Christmas cards, Birthday cards - though there were a few years where I had not sent any cards to anyone, but for the most part, I usually send cards. Anyway, the last time I spoke to Andrea was around her Birthday: March 2005. I would love to "atch-up" with her, so please ask her to contact me. Thanks! Jacqueline. I hope she is doing really well. PS: not everyone wants children. I am now at a point where I embrace my "freedom." At one time, I did want children, but my life took another direction - and now I am content being child-free. What a great challenge it is for parents to raise children in today's society. I am, however, so glad that your baby is well and healthy. However, remember, "All in God's plan."
Jacqueline
USA - Monday, January 08, 2007 at 14:01:20 (PST)

Please - don`t encourage jackie to give birth. Isn`t the world full enough already? Jackie dear, stay true to your own moral values and keep your virue!
P Catching
Barcelona, - Monday, January 08, 2007 at 13:59:25 (PST)

I have just come across this website whilst 'browsing' and have enjoyed reading 'back' messages - and seeing names I haven't heard of for years. I was born and raised in Seaham, attending what I now see is referred to as the SiS, although I don't ever recall using that name (perhaps my memory serves me wrong) and left in 1969 to get married in Singapore. It would be great to hear from anyone who remembers me, I have often been back to Seaham to visit family on the Gilmore side who still live there, and of course to take my Grandsons to the beach, and often wonder when we are there, am I passing anyone I went to school with? Happy New Year to all you Seaham readers.
Dorothy Hawkins nee Reay <Timconor.14@aol.com>
Harrogate, NYorkshire - Monday, January 08, 2007 at 13:58:31 (PST)

Jupiter. We are getting a lot of junk Guestbook messages and they are difficult to handle and take a lot of time. Most of these are sent automatically through "hidden" servers. Please assist us in dealing with these by adding the word "Jupiter" to your comment as we have done here. This may change from time to time if necessary and we will place a reminder on the Guestbook for you.
Ed & Sadie Mason
Seaham, UK - Sunday, January 07, 2007 at 15:03:15 (PST)

Lillian, thank you for all your info. You too Colin Hall on good old Jonny Makin. You all who remember the days of horse and carts running around our roads in Seaham, like me you are still the right way up and breathing. Back in those old days, did you ever think you would get where you are today? Life has been cruel to some of us and kind to others. Poor old Norman Beer must be tiptoing around the wrong side of 65 like us!
Brian Greenfingers
- Sunday, January 07, 2007 at 14:59:25 (PST)

Hello again, also wondering if there are still Matthewson's in the area. My maternal grandmother's family was a huge Murton Colliery Mining family going back a few generations. Not a common name at the time 1830's onwards there's surley some around? Anyone know anyone please contact. Many thanks
Angela Hutchinson
Sunderland, - Sunday, January 07, 2007 at 14:57:48 (PST)

married couple went to the hospital to have their baby delivered. Upon their arrival, the doctor said he had invented a new machine that would transfer a portion of the mother's labour pain to the FATHER. He asked if they were willing to try it out. They were both very much in favour if it.The doctor set the pain transfer to 10% for starters, explaining that even 10% was probably more pain that the father had ever experienced before. But as the labour progressed, the husband felt fine and asked the doctor to go ahead and bump it up a notch. The doctor then adjusted the machine to 20% pain transfer. The husband was still feeling fine.The doctor checked the husbands' blood pressure and was amazed at how well he was doing. At this point they decided to try for 50%. The husband continued to feel quite well. Since the pain transfer was obviously helping out the wife considerably, the husband encouraged the doctor to transfer ALL the pain to him. The wife delivered a healthy baby with virtually no pain. She and her husband were ecstatic. When they got home, the milkman was dead in the porch.
Phaetonus
Hebas, Switzerland - Sunday, January 07, 2007 at 14:56:40 (PST)

Hi Michael, Your TASKERS of Back South Railway Street, Seaham Harbour are well documented in the town by way of baptisms. If you are looking to research your family history then it would be worth your while visiting the Durham Record Office at County Hall - http://www.durham.gov.uk/recordoffice/usp.nsf/pws/durham+record+office+-+durham+record+office+homepage and having a look at the films of the parish registers most of which are indexed to help you search more easily. Alternatively you could use the Durham Records On Line web site at - http://www.durhamrecordsonline.com/index.php The site make a small charge for any "hits" and the feedback I have is that it's a reasonable deal. The other option is to join a Local Family History group where you may be able to access local records and get some help on the different methods of researching your family history. Good Luck in your research! PLEASE NOTE: We would not normally publish web links in the Guestbook. Sadie Mason
Raymond Thompson
Seaham, - Saturday, January 06, 2007 at 16:01:26 (PST)

hi jacqueline is the andrea spurr u r looking for daughter of jack and elaine her mam was a hairdresser if so i play yes play...... darts on a team with her mam and my opinion is that you really should have a child ihad my third son three years ago at the ripe old age of forty four nothing better and yes i did pray to god he would be perfect and he is and boy its fantastic at xmas now did you have a happy xmas?
terry mckenna
Seaham , uk - Saturday, January 06, 2007 at 15:57:49 (PST)

Hi does anyone remember me - I went to Northlea Comprehensive between 1968 and 1972 I used to be Jones in those days. Look forward to hearing from anyone who remembers me
Jackie Hobson <customerservices@prezzybox.com>
Northallerton, - Saturday, January 06, 2007 at 15:56:24 (PST)

For Ed Mason, can you get me in touch with Ray Holmes of Dow House, if he still has something to do with the scout movement, or if not, a contact name please. Richard Thorpe
Richard Thorpe <thorpe53@tiscali.co.uk>
Seaham - I came back, - Saturday, January 06, 2007 at 15:54:06 (PST)

Hi, Colin... Tina here, my brother's name was Stephen, nickname was Richie, you used to hang about with each other, if you are the one am thinking of, if not, I apologise.... or maybe u do know him
Tina
Nottingham, - Saturday, January 06, 2007 at 15:53:07 (PST)

Hi everyone.Happy new year.We went away to our daughters for Christmas yust catching up. I would like to tell you about Jonny Makin as Brian called him. His name was John Maitland ,known as Johnny.He was a good pal of mine. I worked in the grocery department when drove the bread van as it was known.We had three horses at the time ,i still have a photo of me sitting on the back of one.Dixie Dean drove the grocery delivery cart,Billy Loyde the travelling shop.George Dinsdale looked after the horses and iused to help him feed them.Later after i left the shop became a big van and Tommy Foster was the driver .By the way Johnny had fair curly hair and he loved to sing and he was not bad at all. I loved being with the horses and i sometimes rode one down the bank in the summer to take them to the field for the night.Happy memories ihope this helps.TTFN LILLIAN.
Lillian
Seaham , Co Durham England - Saturday, January 06, 2007 at 15:52:23 (PST)

Brian [Greenfingers], I do indeed remember the Co-op man Jonny Makin, although I didn't know his second name until now! I used to work for him on his round, although I don't recall ever being paid! I have this image in my mind at the moment of a guy with rimless glasses and very frizzy hair, and he did sing a lot!
Colin Hall
New Zealand - Saturday, January 06, 2007 at 15:51:12 (PST)

Hello Karen foots, i remember you. you used to live round ropery walk,. you also had a brother. i still see your mam and dad out walking and often speak to him at the green drive on a sunday morning when i am home. i also know your husband as i used to work with his dad. peter. i wish you and your family all the best in your new venture to spain but dont forget your roots. To Tina you have not replied to our question that we asked. The name of your brother who used to hang around with my family, down at ropery walk.
colin shaw <shawsyftm73@yahoo.co.uk>
Seaham , Co Durham England - Saturday, January 06, 2007 at 15:49:57 (PST)

E. Leighton, thankyou for remembering Jonny Makin. He was a Seaham character. The only time I saw Jonny angry was when the horse tryed to kick him as he was ajusting bits of harness down Malvern Cresent.
Brian Greenfingers
- Saturday, January 06, 2007 at 15:47:11 (PST)

good web site keep up the good work. a am trying to trace my wife's side of the family tree her maiden name is Tasker her dad's name is robert and granda's name is Robert his brothers name was John tasker they were all brought up in back railway street i think sorry thats all i know hope some one can help. thanks
Michael wilson
Peterlee, Co. Durham UK - Wednesday, January 03, 2007 at 15:48:18 (PST)

I've Just come across the web-site. Interesting!I visited my family last Aug. I am a Gleghorn. Went to Byron Terrace and Seaham Secondary Schools. I did speak with someone who said that Byron Terrace had Reunion Recently. I'm interested to know what became of some of my school friends.
Janet (Gleghorn) Bainbridge
Cambridge, Ontario Canada - Wednesday, January 03, 2007 at 15:47:28 (PST)

Hi Raymond, thank you kindly for your response and offer of assistance. I have left a message with Ed asking for your email address and also left mine. I did take a trip to Durham County Hall yesterday and managed to find out a little bit more before the office closed. After going through the Electoral Roll I found what appears to be Norah's mother Sarah at the Anne Street address from at least 1945 but of course I couldn't go further back due to the war and then couldn't find Anne St in 1938. In 45-55 it is Seaham Central Ward. I had just finished looking through 1955 when time was up but I have established that Norah's mother survived her, at least for a while but not sure for how long. I am still struggling to find Norah's birth or their location pre '38 or her father Michael. I would not want to put you to any trouble of course although any advice would be most welcome.
Angela Hutchinson
Sunderland, Tyne & Wear - Wednesday, January 03, 2007 at 15:46:15 (PST)

Hi Helen, many thanks for your suggestions. I did get in touch with Michelle at the cemetary and have now been to my Gran's grave which was unmarked. I let my Dad know who until four weeks ago didn't even know his mother's name due to the circumstances. After an emotional New Year's Eve going over what we have learned to date he too visited the cemetary yesterday and we've both laid flowers. He is now going to buy the plot and have it marked. The people at the cemetary were very helpful although I didn't learn any more. I would love to find the details of the inquest but may have to 'put that to bed'. At least my Dad has finally found his Mam and can visit. There are still a few other details to find out but the most important part for my Dad has been done. Again, thank you for responding & your help.
Angela Hutchinson
Sunderland, Tyne & Wear UK - Wednesday, January 03, 2007 at 15:44:13 (PST)

To Eric Leighton. Incidentally I think you may be a generation out. Jack Gleghorn is my cousin and Marian is my niece. My brother Fred Gleghorn who worked at the Nack until his retirement was Marian's father.
Surtees Gleghorn
Taumton, Somerset - Wednesday, January 03, 2007 at 15:38:11 (PST)

Eric Leighton. Thank you for your note on this Guest Book. I too have the photograph of course which appeared in the Daily Express the day after the launch of the tanker "British Princess" on 30th April 1946, however, thank you very much for your kind offer.
Surtees Gleghorn
Taumton, Somerset - Wednesday, January 03, 2007 at 15:37:14 (PST)

Brian Greenfinger- Yes I remember Jonny Makin. When I was about eleven years old, he used to meet me at Queensbury Rd,(where I was born)after school on Thurs,Fri and Saturdays. We would start with the horse and cart at Deneside and end up later at night up the top end of Seaton. My job was to inform the people by knocking on the doors, that Jonny and his cart was in the street, also to see to the paraffin lamps at the back of the cart was lit, when it got dark.Last thing at night was to back the cart down the narrow passage at the Co-op on the Mill Inn bank, unshackle the cart and give the horse it's supper and plenty of hay. All this for a Bottle of Pop and a pasty, mind the apple pies went down lovely when he was not looking. Jonny also used to sing during his rounds and had a canny voice, the same tone as the Harbour fog horn. He died about 6 or 7 years ago while living in a bungalow on the main road at Westlea. A very nice mild mannerd man.He had certain places on his round, where he would be missing for about half an hour for a quick kiss and cuddle !!!
E Leighton
Seaham, UK - Wednesday, January 03, 2007 at 15:36:02 (PST)

judy.c of canada,the memory blurrs as you get older. but the good times are always remembered.i seem to recall the berry family.and peter hall ..i spent most saturday afternoons at the vardy,s pigeon loft in the 50,s and at the nack miners hall dance on sat night ..a lot of the girls from murton attended .i married doris.in54 but lost her in98. the elder bro stan died 2004 and ive lost track of tom the youngest. as far as i know non of the family survive.i would be interested if you know different.yours RM
r masters
Stevenage UK, - Wednesday, January 03, 2007 at 15:33:40 (PST)

It would be lovely to hear from anyone who knows me or went to school with me. I still live in Seaham but hope to be moving to Spain with my husband and son in the near futur
karen carruthers(foots)
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Tuesday, January 02, 2007 at 16:36:47 (PST)

On a recent visit to Seaham I saw a photograph of Seaham White Star AFC 1904 - 05 taken when they won the Wearside League. One of the officials was named as J Newby and I would be interested to know if this was my grandfather or not. Does anyone havw any idea where I can find further info on this football team?
Ethel Farrow
Denmead, Hants uk - Tuesday, January 02, 2007 at 16:35:53 (PST)

I would like to wish all my friends - Camden Square School 1953-57 a Happy and Prospeous New Year.
Valerie Foulds
Parkside, Seaham, - Tuesday, January 02, 2007 at 16:34:48 (PST)

Best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. Angela
Angela Smith
Sunderland, - Tuesday, January 02, 2007 at 16:34:06 (PST)

Angela Hutchinson, Have you contacted Princess Road Cemetery direct? They may have some other details about your grandmother. Their telephone number is 5812943. They are very helpful and you may pick up snippets unavailable elsewhere. They can direct you to your grandmothers grave if you call to the cemetery in person.
Helen
- Tuesday, January 02, 2007 at 16:33:23 (PST)

I was born Seaham in 1950 went to St Mary Magdalins Rc school and St Josephs sec mod, Served my Apprentiship as a fitter at Dawdon Colliery, I visited Seaham in September I was amazed at the changes to Seaham ,I hope for the better as the Town does need the boost.I dont know if any body remmebers me from school or Work
Jonny or Dougy Robson
St Austell, Cornwall - Tuesday, January 02, 2007 at 16:32:42 (PST)

Dose anyone remember a Co-op Bread delivery man with horse and enclosed cart? His name was Jonny Makin, he wore glasses and his hair was very frizzy. Some one might!
Brian Greenfingers
- Tuesday, January 02, 2007 at 16:31:24 (PST)

Surtees Gleghorn- Your cousin John Gleghorn(whose father was your uncle John)says that your other cousin, Marion, has a photo of you working in the Sunderland shipyards in the forties, when the Princess Elizabeth walked past you. Please let me know if you want a copy.To Surtees and all other Seaham ex-pats all over the world, the lads out of the Knack Club wish you all the best for the coming New Years, and not forgeting the Doc and his Wife for the work they have put in good work by producing the Guestbook. How way the lads.
Eric Leighton
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Tuesday, January 02, 2007 at 16:26:11 (PST)

Ed. Re Angela Hutchinsons request, I am a regular visitor to County Hall. If Angela would like to e-mail me I may be able to help. Any idea where Ann Street might be ?
raymond thompson
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Tuesday, January 02, 2007 at 16:24:32 (PST)

The chalange I set for more names of traders in Murton using horse and carts came up with more names I had forgoten. There was the rag men, (who my grandad called the candy man ) some of the things you got in exchange for your rags was whitewash, goldfish , and even day old chicks ,as well as bowls. I recon many a dads pit clothes went missing when he came around. The man who tapped on the window to wake you up reminded me of a saying you used when you were late was " I slept the caller " Is this saying still used in Murton ? The mention of Pioli's shop on the terrace brought back happy memories of my youth, sitting in the back room of the shop listening to the juke box, and drinking a glass of hot orangeade, the hair greased down with vasaline, (a force ten gale wouldn't blow my Tony Curtis out of place ) Do you recall the union man that came around the street with a crake shouting Meeting...at the miners hall...at seven o'clock... very important business.. On a more serious mood ,does anybody remember the two big standing stones that stood in the corner of the field between the new store (coop )and wellfield ? We used to climb on them as children. they looked very much like you would find in ancient britain times. they possibly are still there. they were smooth grey stone ,and one was taller than the other. Thanks for letting us Murtonians creep into your guestbook, but since the address for Murton is Murton Seaham. I don't feel so .bad...
walter riley
East Anglia, UK - Tuesday, January 02, 2007 at 16:22:27 (PST)