MINERS
 BANNER
 FUND
pit_kids
Mining Heritage
Project2006
HARBOUR NEWS
& EVENTS

Guest Book


Guestbook 2006
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.
Thank you for visiting our pages.
We would be delighted if you would Add to ourGuestbook. 

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
With ref to earlier posting about Nora Hutchinson (nee Murphy) I have today received Nora's death certificate which confirmed an inquest and led me to look through Sunderland Echo for the details of the inquest. Unfortunately I didn't find what I was looking for (anddon't know where else to look) but I found a death notice. It appears Nora was returned to Seaham upon her death and buried in Princess Street Cemetary. I believe she must have had family still in Seaham who saw that she was returned and I will be taking a trip to Durham Records Office to check electoral roll for 2 Anne Street but if anyone should remember the Murphy family at that address I'd love to hear from you. NOTE: Angela's email address available from Ed or Sadie Mason - we are trying to avoid publishing email addresses which can sometimes lead to lots of junk.
Angela Hutchinson
Sunderland, UK - Saturday, December 30, 2006 at 14:01:59 (PST)
R Masters.... I remember the Vardy's very well at #10. I lived all my life until I was married at #38 Dene Terrace my name then was Berry. I still could probably go through all the numbers and tell you who lived there nobody moved when they got a colliery house. I also knew most of the people in Sea View. You are right is is just about a half century ago. Best wishes from CanadaJudy
Judy C
Alliston, Ontario Canada - Saturday, December 30, 2006 at 13:58:52 (PST)
Jaqueline, the fact you have used the word 'shot' four times in five sentences tells me you don't know what it means, and you can't ask your two cohorts because they can't even recall their own names. Actually, I don't take shots at you, and if I did they most certainly wouldn't be cheap. What I do take as offensive is your constant pious and patronising attitude to the good folk of Seaham, especially any not sharing your fervant belief that America is the theological centre of the world and you are its star; it isn't, and you're not!!What I can say, is that you failed Psychology 101, and your assessment of me couldn't be further from reality.It is, however, very nearly 2007, and as I am always simpatico and full of good cheer and bonhomie,especially on New Years Eve, I wish everyone a very happy and prosperous New Year
Colin Hall
New Zealand - Saturday, December 30, 2006 at 13:56:43 (PST)
I've just seen a TV programe about a well known Actor who died on the stage of the Sunderland Empire in 1976. His name was Sid James. The last time I visited the Sunderland Empire was to see a Pantomime about fifty years ago. Talking of visits to the Holy Land, I would not recommend it at all. Bethlehem is like a prison fortress. The British Archbisop of Canterbury said his visit along with many other Church people was disturbing. If you do go, do not carry a bag and wear just a tee shirt so you can be frisked easily for weapons. "Oh little town of Bethlehem" What have people made you?
Brian Greenfingers
- Saturday, December 30, 2006 at 13:55:32 (PST)
Colin Hall, That Groper fish wandering around with its mouth permantly open seems just like you mate, You're a "Walter Mitty" charactor all right, You couldn't win a battle of wits if you tried, like a Polititian you won't (or Can't) answer valid points,like why did you falsly promise to be off and never to darken these pages again? Seems you like to "dish it out" but you just can't take it.
Bighearted Thomas from Seaham
Seaham, - Saturday, December 30, 2006 at 13:54:28 (PST)
To "your friend" I haev been wanting to go to the Holy Land for years, and always get side-tracked or other things come up and then time goes by. Though, is it safe to visit now, given all the issues we are having with the middle east, and terrorism? I am also thinking to visit Lourdes,France or Fatima, Portugal (where our Blessed Mother, made her appearances.)But I think 2007 I may need to visit Seaham and do the other traveling 2008. Either way, perhaps we could arrange for Dinner. I was looking through some photos the other week, and came across my favorite Cathedral in the north. Durham, where I was confirmed - that day, Monday, April 11th 1983 @ 7.00pm. was a very special day to me. I truly felt I was giving my whole heart and life to Jesus. I was actually the first one confirmed (out of 200 kids) by the Bishop of Jarrow. It truly was a beautiful evening - I will always remember that evening where I gave myself to our Lord. I wonder how many other kids of that! evening, remember the day, date, time and how significant it was in our lives.
Jacqueline
USA - Saturday, December 30, 2006 at 13:53:20 (PST)
to ed.thankyou ,much appreciated.will continue to read and enjoy the g/book,many things have changed in seaham since i left but help from friends,neigbours,&strangers seem to remain constant .. again many thanks . all the best & good health to you &yours for 2007!!!!!
R.Masters
Stevenage UK, - Saturday, December 30, 2006 at 13:52:11 (PST)
Thank you for reading my post Colin Hall, Tut Tut--It certainly gets you a-jibbering.Good-by till next Christmas one and all, I'm off back to Lap Land.
Christmas Fairy.
- Saturday, December 30, 2006 at 13:51:14 (PST)
I would like to pass my best wishes to all Guestbookers and particularly to the friend we heard from recently through Ed. hope 2007 goes as well as can be expected for you all.Thanks again Ed and a happy new year to both you and Sadie.( If you see Norman tell him hello ) cheers mate.
Jim & Chris Robinson
- Saturday, December 30, 2006 at 13:50:05 (PST)
To Ed & Sadie, just finished packing ready for the drive to St Bees for our Family & Friends annual reunion. Thank you for making it another enjoyable year of readings that are solely relevant to Seaham. I may not agree with all the comments placed, but just skip over those contributions I don’t like, and agree with the right to have them placed in your forum. I hope you have had a merry Christmas, and send best wishes for 2007. May you and you readers continue in good health, and continued prosperity.
Tom Moreland.
London, - Thursday, December 28, 2006 at 16:29:20 (PST)
ncidently, if anyone has knowledge of a Nora Murphy whose father was Michael Murphy please do email me. Nora married Eric Hutchinson at St. John's church in Seaham in 1948 and moved to Sunderland. At the time of the marriage Nora lived at 2 Anne Street which I assume is now gone. She had one child, Thomas in 1951 and electoral records show she resided at 29 Nth Milburn Street with Eric until 1952 when it seems he 'disappeared'. A year and a half later Nora apparently committed suicide leaving her small son an orphan. Such a sad end if true and no-one left to verify or provide any other information. I would be interested to know more of Nora and her family who I believe were from Seaham, perhaps someone may remember? Nora would have been my Grandmother and I feel a great sadness that she died alone.
Angela Hutchinson
Sunderland, - Thursday, December 28, 2006 at 16:28:31 (PST)
Found site a couple of weeks ago whilst investigating a family connection with the area. Read all of the 2006 entries with some amusement but it struck me how nice most folk are here. Also, how much knowledge and experience there is. The old way of passing down family history by stories is in danger of being lost to the internet and world of IT, it's lovely to actually see both mediums working hand in hand. It's incredibly difficult to locate lost family information as I have found out and I'm glad there is a way to record more info for the future. I just hope it doesn't get lost in cyberspace!
Angela Hutchinson
Sunderland, - Thursday, December 28, 2006 at 16:27:44 (PST)
Happy new year to everyone in seaham. from Colin and Tony Shaw, as we will not be home to celebrate as we have to work back down in Africa. To Tina from nottingham, could you give me the name of your brother, who grew up with us in seaham. All the best to the guestbook readers for 2007.
colin shaw
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Thursday, December 28, 2006 at 16:26:50 (PST)
Hi, y'all, I am visiting with the Colonels and children. I was their nanny for 5 years from August '87 - August '92. Over the years I have kept in very close touch with the family. It is rather hard not too, given I am GodMother to the youngest. He was born during my employment. We are a very close family. I visit for all the graduations, Birthday milestones, etc... Each time we visit, we always enjoy going back to memories of my being Nanny, and all the fun times the children and I had, either traveling, camping, doing sports, attending the children's school activities etc... This time, however, we have gone back to the memories of my life in Seaham. (Positive fun times) I have shown the children, (now, 24, 20 and 17) all the links, photos and stories of Seaham on the wonderful, informative website. The children, are in awe! They really think I was raised in such an awesome town - and "Old!" The middle child, once said to me, "Nanny, remember when you were younger! , in the "olden" days?" Now that he has seen this website, he really still believes I was around in the "olden" days. I wish I had appreciated Seaham when I was younger, and all the history. However, I still believe in theory, and that is, "One's life experience in a town, shapes one's opinions of the town." Nevertheless, as I look at all the photos and readings, I can appreciate the town I was raised in. Thank you, Ed Mason for doing up this website. It has been really informative. God Bless!
Jacqueline
USA - Thursday, December 28, 2006 at 16:25:47 (PST)
Was talking to Dave the Landlord at The Phoenix and he was telling me that in February the pub is to be getting a £300,000 facelift. No more daft discos or late license crap. Just a nice bar and restaurant. They're also renaming the restaurant "Sherry's"
Tom
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Thursday, December 28, 2006 at 16:25:06 (PST)
Yes. To the person who asked me to make a contact.
Ed Mason
Seaham, Co Durham Uk - Thursday, December 28, 2006 at 16:24:16 (PST)
julie of ontario,you mention dene terr in murton.did you know the VARDY family at no 10.it was only HALF, a century ago by the way since we got our fish off a cart in the street,health & safety wont allow it now HAPPY DAYS R,M
r.masters
Stevenage UK, - Thursday, December 28, 2006 at 16:22:31 (PST)
"Big hearted Thomas" from Seaham. I do not know why "Colin Hall" from NZ chooses to take shots at me. I think he is like somewhere in his 60's and for whatever reason he has always taken "shots" at me. I do not even know the guy. But I have got use to his cheap shots at me and I usually ignore them. I think it is just how he is, and the people of Seaham or far away, need to realize "people are the way the are, because that is just the way they are - and you just have to accept people for who they are." "You cannot change things or people, if circumstances are not in your control." Anyway, "Big Hearted Thomas" thank you for defending me and also observing that "Colin Hall" from NZ does take shots at me for no reason.
Jacqueline
USA - Thursday, December 28, 2006 at 16:21:42 (PST)
this book is spoiled by that stupid sad act jakie and the prats who encourage her by talking to her ignore her and she might just go away hopfully
ed mac
brockenhurst, Hants UK - Thursday, December 28, 2006 at 16:20:53 (PST)
One of those horse and cart characters was named Pybus! He lived in Ryton Crescent I think, and earned a living moving stuff like furniture around for people on the move. He was the equivalent of today's general carrier, except he did it with a horse and cart. He wasn't alone. There were fishmongers, fruit and vege, and the Co-op all using horses and carts.I recall a neighbour of ours, a Mrs Moses, who collected the residue from the horses and used it in her garden. She always had magnificent roses! There was also a guy who pushed a sort of wheelbarrow around which had a peddle-operated grindstone for sharpening scissors and kitchen knives, then there was the rag and bone men from Sunderland, giving away goldfish, but never cash, for whatever he was given. Also, and I'm not that old, but I can recall Gas lighters turning on street lights with a long pole, and it might well have been the same man who tapped ever so gently on peoples' windows to give shift workers an early call.
Colin Hall
NZ - Thursday, December 28, 2006 at 16:19:51 (PST)
Jacqueline, I see that from time to time you consider returning to Seaham for a holiday, could I humbly suggest that you consider a visit to the birthplace of our Lord Jesus, that is the holy city of Bethlehem, I intend to visit this holy place myself soon, possibly in 2007, an experience I am told is second to none, Bethlehem may have been commercialised in recent times, but I believe (as the Bishop of York does) that every Christian should visit the noble city.
your friend
- Thursday, December 28, 2006 at 16:18:43 (PST)
Well, it's Xmas Day, and it fact it's almost over as I write this, and it has been as usual, full of fun and great food.Christmas Fairy and Bighearted Thomas; you are clearly so confident that you hide behind pseudonyms which means I win the battle of wits due to you both being unarmed as well as unnamed.Next time an original thought strikes either of you, I suggest you write it down. I'm not, in fact anti-Jaqueline, just the absurd notion she has that praying on her knees on a Sunday and preying on everybody else for the rest of the week is ok as long as she says so.I'm also extremely happy where I am, because I've been here very nearly 44 years, but I'm bound to say I can always raise a smile when I wind the likes of the two of you up so easily.It's like catching groper!{A very large fish that wanders around with it's mouth open].
Colin Hall
NZ - Thursday, December 28, 2006 at 16:18:06 (PST)
We both wish all our friends and old school pals a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Carole and Mike Harrison
Coquitlam, British Columbia Canada - Thursday, December 28, 2006 at 16:17:07 (PST)
We would just like to wish everyone a happy and peaceful Christmas and a healthy and exciting New Year.
Ed and Sadie Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Sunday, December 24, 2006 at 16:28:46 (PST)
Hello Walter..... I was born and raised in Murton. I can remember three more.Ernie Oloman (fruit and veg I believe he was Fatty Brass's son in law)Skilbeck's who had the shop on the terrace and of course the store milk cart (co-op). For a while there was Bob Hudson's fish and chip cart used to come around Dene Terrace. I am sure there are more. Remember the rag man with the horse and cart who used to give your mother a dish for her old clothes or he would give us kids a goldfish!!!!!It seems like a century ago.
Judy C
Alliston(North of Toronto), Ontario Canada - Sunday, December 24, 2006 at 16:26:39 (PST)
walter riley of murton,re names from the past. another was tattie bob anderson.his son carried on after his death in 51,pioli,s shop where every time you asked for woodbines you got ONLY PASHA.is it still there? and what was the name of the bookie with a pitch at the pit gates.wishing all guests a merry xmas and all the very best for 2007.thank you ed for helping to keep us ex,s together with our memories and opinions R.M
r masters
Stevenage, - Sunday, December 24, 2006 at 16:25:28 (PST)
Merry Christmas from Sunny Florida... I wish everyone here on this Guest Book a Beautiful and Blest Christmas and New Year of 2007. I am vacationing in Florida and having a super time! Ed Mason, "Seahamlad" Brian Greenfingers, Helen, Popey, and everyone else.. even Colin Hall in NZ and Christmas Fairy, and ... Old Mother Hubbard... I wish you all a Beautiful Christmas and a Blest New Year.. 2007.
Jacqueline
USA - Sunday, December 24, 2006 at 16:24:36 (PST)
just been browsing your website and found it very interesting hereing all comments. does anyone remember me i went to camden square 1961-1967 maiden name was tennick would like to here from you merry xmas to all
dorothy mckay
boston, lincolnshire - Sunday, December 24, 2006 at 16:23:46 (PST)
A very happy Christmas to all from the land of the tree. And to Colin Hall I enjoy your posts. You talk a lot of sense mate! Special greetings to you and yours in the Antipodes. Watch out for sunburn.
sherwood forester
Newark, Notts - Sunday, December 24, 2006 at 16:22:38 (PST)
Just wanted to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and all good wishes for the New Year.
Helen
- Saturday, December 23, 2006 at 16:39:34 (PST)
Could I take this oportunity of wishing all Seaham Folk wherever they are, a happy Christmas and prosperous, healthy 2007, to Jacqueline, Brian Greenfingers, Colin Hall, Tony from Espana good luck and God bless
Seahamlad
- Saturday, December 23, 2006 at 16:38:46 (PST)
Alan Pybus, Its nice to get a positive letter from an expat, instead of the usual negative type of response, I'm afraid Alan that Church Street is doomed in its present form and that when the new shopping Centre opens it will slide further into history, its a shame really, but no one can stand in the ay of progress.
Seahamlad
- Saturday, December 23, 2006 at 16:38:05 (PST)
The other day I was recalling our early days in Murton during the 40s and 50s with my brother. We tried to remember who the tradesmen were who called around the streets with horse and carts? The ones we could recall were ,Bob Wilson the milkman, I think he was from Dalton le Dale , Eddy Bell the fish man, he was a ruddy faced man with a terrible limp. Then there was Brassey, (I think we called him Fatty Brass) he sold the fruit & veg. The last one we could remember was Spry the parrafin oil man,his trade was in hardwear ,pots and pans ,and those cork and washers that were fitted to the leaky tin bath.( you certainly knew it if your bottom scraped past one ) There were others ,but just can't put a name to them . I'm sure there's some of our vintage members who can add a few more names.
Walter Riley
East Anglia, UK - Saturday, December 23, 2006 at 16:37:20 (PST)
Colin Hall, You broke your promise, when you said a while ago that you "were off" and would never darken these pages again. There seems to be no point or substance in your letters apart from a sneering attitude directed at the fair Jacqueline, You must be one unhappy boy down in NZ!
Bighearted Thomas from Seaham
- Saturday, December 23, 2006 at 16:36:09 (PST)
A Merry Xmas to all contributors of the guestbook.
Richard Thorpe
Seaham - I came back, Co. Durham UK - Saturday, December 23, 2006 at 16:35:14 (PST)
wishing everyone on this book a very merry christmas. and a happy new year.and dont drink and drive you might spill it.
Popey
Yorks - Saturday, December 23, 2006 at 16:33:46 (PST)
Well, Colin Hall is being his usual nasty self. I shall pick up my wand and say one thing to you Colin--VANISH.But I will wish everyone else a Merry Christmas.
Christmas Fairy.
- Saturday, December 23, 2006 at 16:33:08 (PST)
"Christmas Fairy" Thank you. I too, wish you well... and that is also from my heart. I hope life treats you well and kind - and God comes to your every prayer. Don't give up on God or your trust and faith in him. Have a Beautiful Christmas and a very Blest New Year - 2007.
Jacqueline
USA - Saturday, December 23, 2006 at 16:32:23 (PST)
"Christmas Fairy," I wish you well too. I wish you were someone I knew - knew very well. Life took me over here and I am so very content here in America. If you know Lesley Roberts, (which if you are who I think you are, you will know her very well - she was in your year at school) then you ask her about life in America and she will tell you. You become accustom to the way of living, and it is something we enjoy. It is not all perfect, but there is something about America, people either hate it or love it. I love it! Despite the issues this country has and despite my life has not gone all to according to how "I" had planned my life. "Eric the Red" Yes, God is in control. We have "free will of mind" which often times our free-will determines some of the paths our lives will take, but ultimately, God is in Control. "Ask and you shall receive, Seek and you shall find, Knock and the door shall be opened to you." Prayers help and God is always there for those who seek h! im. I wish everyone a Beautiful and Blest New Year - 2007.
Jacqueline
USA - Saturday, December 23, 2006 at 16:31:38 (PST)
I see Jacquie is still stumbling around like a one-legged guy at a bum-kicking contest. Give the philosophy away girl, it's not your scene. Popey I'm not sure that your name is POPE-ie or Pop -eye as in Sailor, but I wasn't aiming at you but at our tame evangelist, Jaquie, now joined by a Mr Catching who seems to be looking forward to a re-run of some mythical event! However, Peace on Earth and all that stuff to each and every one of you. Stay warm, don't drink and drive, look out for the littlies, and have a very Happy Xmas.
Colin Hall
New Zealand - Thursday, December 21, 2006 at 15:35:02 (PST)
This one is for Colin Shaw... Wonder if you can remember me..., my bro was a friend of all your family, you, your Tony, and the other bro, who I can never remember his name.... I seen you a few times out drinking round the harbour.. not sure if you can remember, but I hope this finds you well, and you get back to me... maybe even pass on e-mail addy's..
Tina
Nottingham, UK - Thursday, December 21, 2006 at 15:33:06 (PST)
I was in Seaham for the first time in years last month. It looks cleaner and better that it did when I left in the sixties, but what happened to the bottom end of Malvern Crescent. The beach was great and there are houses where the Tempest used to be. Church Street could do with a tidy up though, stell shutters everywhere. It was nice to visit home.
Alan Pybus
Poole, UK - Thursday, December 21, 2006 at 15:31:57 (PST)
Good day to all that read this page. Just sayin hello as I have family around Seaham :-) I have an aunt (Kim Blackmore) living in Murton and my grandmother passed away in Seaham back in October. Her name was Ella Totten....lived on Magdalene Court and was a very beautiful lady. Any one knowing these people or anything would be nice to here from you. Hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Nichole Pittman
Marystown, Newfoundland Canada - Thursday, December 21, 2006 at 15:30:19 (PST)
Jaqueline, I cannot tell you who I am, but I do wish you well and that is from the heart.
Christmas Fairy.
- Thursday, December 21, 2006 at 15:28:13 (PST)
Jacqueline you cannot expect God to do everything for you regarding your life! George Bernard Shaw said "The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want and if they can't find them, make them!" That should be your motto ,if you want kids find the right guy and settle down.
Eric the Red
- Monday, December 18, 2006 at 15:30:14 (PST)
sharon, thanks for the memories of Deneside Junior, i had forgotton all the parties with the cup, plates etc with our name on. my mam was the same, i thought she would have given me the mismatched ones that she didnt care if they got broken, but she didnt want people to think we had those kinds of dishes!!!! i remember McNee and I loved Mrs Martin. i always remember you had to ask the teacher for toilet paper and then run up the yard to the toilets! guess we couldnt have toilet paper in the toilets in case we wasted it. I remember of course my buddy Muriel Ayre. Martin Abbot, steven ramshaw, peter ward just to name a few. thanks for the memories.oh and by the way, never heard anyone say Canada was ugly, guess you never visited eh.
Joan (Farn) Watkinson
bc Canada - Monday, December 18, 2006 at 15:29:27 (PST)
Christmas Fairy,.. I have no idea who you are??? I really did think it was someone else - obviously I was wrong. You sound a little "upset" if you are someone in Seaham, then please tell me who you are? If there was a reason for me to come back, who knows what the future holds. Have a Merry Christmas... Sorry if I upset you.. I really did think you were a woman.
Jacqueline
USA - Monday, December 18, 2006 at 15:28:31 (PST)
Jackie, nice to see you again on the guestbook. As Christmas approaches it`s comforting to think that the baby Jesus will soon be coming back to earth to bless us all with his love. Like you I will be praying that the light of his word will shine upon us all as we go into 2007. As the latin bible tells us - "Fortis in quid esta peurperium." Wise but simple words that should help us all to understand the true message of his word. I hope the blessings of peace will be upon you. I`ll be lighting a candle for you.
P Catching
Barcelona, - Sunday, December 17, 2006 at 15:13:23 (PST)
well spotted colin. at least someone can spell.a nightedhood for you .
popey
yorks, - Sunday, December 17, 2006 at 15:12:38 (PST)
Thank-you Jacqueline and Good-by. Did you really think Christmas Fairy was a woman??
Christmas Fairy.
- Sunday, December 17, 2006 at 15:11:58 (PST)
"Christmas Fairy" (perhaps, Elizabeth???) Anyway, not everyone who leaves comes back, due to roots. My roots are in Scotland, Ireland and I suppose in Seaham too... but I am not scooting off to either Scotland or Ireland. My dear friend's grandmother, left Irelend when she was 18 years old and now at 80 years old, she has yet to go back. My life is in God's hands. Obviously if I have no children, then I will have no one to look after me when I am in my "wisdom" years. (senior years) So, we will just see what the good Lord has planned for my life. If he think life would be good for me in Seaham, I am sure there would be a reason for me to go back. Do you think Lesley Roberts would go back to live in Seaham when she is well into her wisdom years? Or all of the people who have moved to other countries. We do not always go back to Seaham once we are well into our wisdom years. We are very content with our lives in the countries we have made our homes. You may love Seah! am, but others may like it a little less than you do, and others, may well be content with the lives they have.
Jacqueline
- Friday, December 15, 2006 at 15:16:25 (PST)
Righto, it's that time again, when the shopping malls stop selling Easter eggs and switch into the Xmas rush to spend, and we all get to feel a surfeit of well-being towards our fellow man, and woman. Down here in NZ it's the start of summer, and Xmas just happens to fall into that season, so we're warmer than you lot up there for starters, and when the sun's shining and the sky is blue, you automatically feel better.There is a native tree in NZ called the Pohutakawa which only flowers once a year with a show of brilliant scarlet blossoms. That happens around now and over Xmas, so it is commonly known as the NZ Xmas Tree. If it blossoms early in December, as it is now, then the theory is a brilliant summer!So to you Ed and Sadie, thank you for keeping this thing ticking over, and all the very best for Xmas and New Year. That also applies to each and every one of you occasional contributors, whover and wherever you are; I hope the world is kind to you in 2007, and t! hat you get some nuts in your Xmas stocking. Don't drink and drive, and be good!
Colin Hall
New Zealand - Friday, December 15, 2006 at 15:14:36 (PST)
Popey, it's not poor spelling or bad grammar which is the issue, except when someone claims betterment in the world they live in, then blows it by showing lack of attention to both! I was taught to spell at school, and extensive reading and writing honed over many years mean speling mistooks tend to leap out at me, but I accept that not everyone is like that! But if you're not perfect, don't broadcast to we lesser mortals that you are.
Colin Hall
New Zealand - Friday, December 15, 2006 at 15:14:05 (PST)
Eric[Leighton], Thank you, John Cleghorn and Gordon Laverick and I do indeed go back a long way, and they're both grand lads, always were. We're all in our 60s by the way, it's just that I was always so much better looking than either of them so I don't show it as much!Tom Moreland, thank you for those kind words. I decide the morning we left that I wouldn't fly 12, 000 miles for his funeral, having just returned to NZ from a similar trip,but I would love to have been a fly on the wall at the 'aftermatch' function, in the Nack no doubt.There would have been a few lies told over a beer or three.
Colin Hall
New Zealand - Friday, December 15, 2006 at 15:13:28 (PST)
The GB has become more humanised (Thankfully) latley.Colin H. lamenting his personal loss. Jacqueline searching for a lost friend Andrea and even Seahamlad's birthday has arisen. At mine and Colin Hall's. age 60 plus, we do tend to lose more than we ever gain.I still miss the late, lamented Marilin Monro who left us 40 years ago. "I wannabe loved by you by you nobody else will do. By you nobody else will do, by you Hoo Hoo, Boo Booby Do." Something like that!
Brian Greenfingers
- Friday, December 15, 2006 at 15:12:40 (PST)
After reading this guest book for two years, I finally read a surname which is my name. I speak of John Gleghorn mentioned by Eric Leighton. My father was George Robson Gleghorn was killed at the Nack in 1934 when I was just four years old. My name is Surtees Gleghorn and I left Seaham aged 17 in 1947 to join the Royal Navy. I was a member of the Sea Cadets and often wonder where my old mate Jim Mustard is. I understand that two members Ernie Kennedy and Tom Ward both slightly older are now dead. At my age, there possibly aren't many of my old mates left.
Surtees Gleghorn
Taunton, Somerset - Friday, December 15, 2006 at 15:11:55 (PST)
i am looking for any one who went to northfeild (Northlea?)school around 1994-1995
vicki parsons
skem, Lancashire UK - Tuesday, December 12, 2006 at 15:20:39 (PST)
i also remeber the blast beach. spent many a happy day as a kid.it was a magical place as a youngen . it was full of debri like wood and old rubber belt material. and an abundance of cooper wire. also spent a lot of time fishing with my dad . lots of kids played on the blast i wonder if any body plays there now.
Popey
Yorks - Tuesday, December 12, 2006 at 15:18:34 (PST)
Colin Hall N Zealand- What nice, few lines written by Colin. I passed your comments around the Nack Club, and two school friends of yours,- John Gleghorn and Colin Laverick. both are in their 60s. Both send thier love and wish you a merry xmas
Eric Leighton
seaham, Co. Durham UK - Tuesday, December 12, 2006 at 15:17:51 (PST)
To Colin Hall, my kindest thoughts are with you at this time; it’s a plight all us remote Seaham folk are in. My brother George (in France at the time) missed saying goodbye to our father. I may not a religious fanatic, but I do know (from personal experience) that loved one's, are just a single veil away from our mortal existence.Thinking of you at this sad time.
Tom Moreland
London, - Tuesday, December 12, 2006 at 15:17:01 (PST)
N.F. Surry. Yes the Blast beach had it's own character. Black-looking, cold and the caves were facernating, always very wet inside. AS kids we built driftwood fires on the shoreline, halcyon days indeed. Do'snt time fly.
Brian Greenfingers
- Monday, December 11, 2006 at 16:14:56 (PST)
Anyway.. enough of the talk of Seaham verses America etc.. and which is the best country etc.. Does anyone know where Andrea Spurr is? I last spoke to her last year and it seems she has moved with no fwding address. I have her Christmas card for her. If anyone sees her, tell her Jacqueline says "Hi and Merry Christmas."
Jacqueline
USA - Monday, December 11, 2006 at 16:14:13 (PST)
sharon osborne nee cross ,go to deneside infants & nursery unit.on your p/c you will see your old school and the improvments since your time.the parties were held in the 1940s as well. but we had to dance with the girls yuk, you were lucky to have T Mcnee as head,a man i think should have been honoured for his dedication to education.i worked w/ends for his father at princess dairy before my apprenticeship and knew him well R.M
R.M.
Stevenage UK, - Monday, December 11, 2006 at 16:12:36 (PST)
if bad spelling can bring peace to the world and a brotherhood of man its fine by me
Popey
Yorks, - Monday, December 11, 2006 at 16:11:51 (PST)
A question to the Editor. Would it be possible to include a spelling and grammar checking facility for the use of subscribers? EDITOR: Know.
Edward Dowman
- Monday, December 11, 2006 at 16:11:06 (PST)
Seahamlad I think tomorrow is your Birthday - December 11th. So I am wishing you a very Happy Birthday. (That is, if it is your Birthday.
Your Friend.
- Sunday, December 10, 2006 at 15:36:46 (PST)
I have, at least had until the 31st July, an older brother, Harry, who lived in Warkworth Crescent. His wife Kath, my sister-in-law. now lives in that rest home just down from the Phoenix. She is there because, despite being relatively young, ill-health has taken her sight and she needed care he couldn't provide. He nevertheless spent all day , every day, by her side, as he had been for 50 years or so.We visited and stayed the night with him in May, after him telling me that day that he had terminal lung cancer, at age 76; not a good state to be in. We had to leave very early the next day, unfortunately, so there were no long goodbyes, just the knowledge that neither of us would see each other again. It wasn't easy, because, despite the fact I've been been away for more than 40 years, he's always been there as a link. In July I got one of those 0400 phone calls, and you just know that they're never good news at that time of the day, to tell me he'd died peacefully. One of the last things he said to me was that he didn't like taking the pain-killers precribed " because I don't want to wake up dead".Well, that's precisely what happened I suspect, he fell asleep and didn't wake up.It's been four months now, and while I'm philosophical, every now and then I find myself thinking about him, which is OK. I've never subscribed to that, 'he's not gone, but in the next room' nonsense, but for sure I hope he's happy wherever he is.
Colin Hall
New Zealand - Sunday, December 10, 2006 at 15:35:23 (PST)
Dont do that Popey some of us don't want to talk about America
Anon
Seaham, - Sunday, December 10, 2006 at 15:32:10 (PST)
Jacqueline, Christmas Fairy at your service. Do'nt worry my dear. If America allowes you to live untill you are old and grey. To use one of your awful "isums" you will come scooting back to Seaham because it is to do with Roots and where you will want to lay your head down for the last time.Now, those of you who accuse our Jacqueline of Inane Babbling can wash your mouth out with soap and water if thats possible in an equally awful country as Canada.
Christmas Fairy
- Sunday, December 10, 2006 at 15:31:25 (PST)
Jacqueline, I think you protest too much! Actually, I don't believe for a second that you're as confident of who you are as you claim to be.Really self-assured people don't do that. You're far too dependent on outside influences of religion and the need to be seen to have done better, according to you, than anyone else. You show no sense of purpose and direction, and to cover that fact you resort to screeds of quasi-religiuos bunkum. I personally see you as the female equivalent of Superman,"looking for truth, justice, and the 'merican way of life" and you need to convince everyone else by spreading your word.Meanwhile, life in the real world is passing you by girl.I think the Americam idiom would have you "wake up and smell the coffee". Your grammar by the way, American or English, is still apallin
Colin Hall
New Zealand - Sunday, December 10, 2006 at 15:30:18 (PST)
hi i do enjoy reading all the e mails people send in especially when it is about seaham which is what the web site is all about but some times some people get side tracked as it is coming up to xmas i wonder if anyone who went to deneside school can remember the xmas party s they had the one thing that sticks out in my mind about them was we all had to take our own cup saucer and plate along with your name on the bottom the only thing was my mam used to send me along with the best china and after the party we all used to gather around the xmas tree with all the teachers and sing xmas carols i wonder if any one else out there remembers this . the year was 1963to 1970 and the teachers i rem were mr mc nee mr waugh miss little
sharon osborne ne cross
Grays, Essex - Sunday, December 10, 2006 at 15:27:00 (PST)
Just seen a TV progamme about Britain's coastline. For a few minutes it featured The Blast, at Dawdon, which now appears to have a warden. What a fascinating place it used to be when I lived in ASeaham many years ago. Black and sinister looking, lots of caves, steep cliffs and a "Nanny Goat's Path" leading down to it. Men from Sunderland and the surrounds road bikes to it to collect sea coal for their homes - or to sell. A couple of full sacks were held on the V-frame and they pushed back to whence they came sitting on a little wooden seats above the rear tyre with one swinging sandshoe foot providing the pushing power How they got those full sacks up and down that path and had the stamina and leg strength to haul them miles baffles me. Men were men in those days ... and they would rather slog for hours to "earn a crust" than be benefit scroungers. Remember?
N.F.
Surrey, - Sunday, December 10, 2006 at 15:24:31 (PST)
Oh Popey, Popey, Popey. What can I say marrow! Spelling, punctuation, capitalisation.......... Where was it you learned to write? Not Seaham surely!
P Catching
Barcelona, - Sunday, December 10, 2006 at 15:22:18 (PST)
Jacqueline you may be interested to know that the good old british winter has stopped the teenagers from wreaking the East Shore play area. They have now moved to their winter residency of the old railway bridge beside what used to be the Carlton Arms.Like Trolls they hide from light, surprising an unsuspecting passer by with a “How yeah! Will ya gan in Booze Buster an get rus a bottle a cider? How,will ya How?” There they wait under the bridge all winter until spring and their demolition of play areas can start again. Wonderful.
K.M Woodward
Seaham, - Sunday, December 10, 2006 at 15:21:19 (PST)
im thro with book its full of boring bitchy nonesens
Popey
Yorks - Thursday, December 07, 2006 at 13:56:56 (PST)
"James B" Toronto. I read your message to me, and I agree with you, I did do a lot of boasting. It is am amazing thing, age.. you know. Age comes wisdom. One should never continue to remind one of one's mistakes, it is just not graceful. If one has recognized his/her mistakes, then.. just let the issue go. Obviously, I was on my "American Kick" a few years ago. I continue to enjoy my American life and appreciate my life. I am loyal to America, but obviously, a little bit of me may always remain somewhat "British" and somewhat of a Seaham gal. Thank you "James B' for kindly reminding me of my boastfulness and mistakes.
Jacqueline
USA - Thursday, December 07, 2006 at 13:56:10 (PST)
Beardy, thanks for making us laugh in the midst of all that pro American rubbish. My gnomes are in hysterics.
Father Christmas
Seaham, - Wednesday, December 06, 2006 at 15:05:17 (PST)
Agree with Helen, the people of Seaham do complain to much about the place, they should count their blessings and get cracking bulling the place up, If they have to much time on their hands they could always try to do some Charity volunteer work
Bill
- Wednesday, December 06, 2006 at 15:04:12 (PST)
Jacqueline (mother Theresa); I see you are back on the guestbook again, thought we got rid of your inane babbling. I have lived next door to and visited the U.S. for 40 years on business and pleasure and the only thing better than England or Canada is the weather. No one is interested in your supposed visits. incedently "nowt" is derived from "naut" and for us poor foreigners your expression "ya'll" means "you all".If you must be a critic, go back over your old entries and count the number of times you have bragged about your good American life and complained about Seaham and the U.K.
James B
Toronto, Ontario Canada - Wednesday, December 06, 2006 at 14:57:58 (PST)
"Christmas Fairy" You know... I maybe "Americanized" and parts of me sometimes has wished things had gone differently in my life, and that maybe I may have stayed closer connected to the Seaham people and to Seaham. Perhaps I still am a bit of a curious "Seaham gal" I don't know... I think I am curious about the place and people... years have gone by, a lot has changed, some has stayed the same. A lot of people have changed, and some have stayed the same. I am curious... I don't know if Seaham is still in me.. not sure. I know I am very accustomed to America and to the lifestyle.. this has been my home for many, many years. Though, I adore small towns with old character and history, as appose to the bigger cities, I am for certain, that I could not live in Seaham again and be at peace. A part of me always wants to travel to new places and explore. I feel more comfortable within myself being "American." But, okay.. part of me may always remain a Seaham Gal, who also! has Scottish and Irish blood in me.. I am not even a true English gal.
Jacqueline
USA - Wednesday, December 06, 2006 at 14:56:24 (PST)
Jacqueline might continue with her wild and wooly,gushing americanisums on this G.B. but you cannot take the Seaham Girl out of her.
Christmas Fairy
- Tuesday, December 05, 2006 at 14:17:13 (PST)
To Jacqueline.Why people of Seaham moan about Seaham.How I see it, it's a bit like when you moan about your family even though you love them a lot and wouldn't allow anyone else to say anything bad about them. It doesn't necessarily make sense but it's just the way it is. WE might be allowed to call Seaham but nobody else is allowed to. Logic doesn't enter into it.Hope you're doing OK.
Helen
- Tuesday, December 05, 2006 at 14:16:28 (PST)
Hey! You people of Seaham.. it is rather late, and I have just spent an hour or so, maybe longer, browsing on Seaham images.. You know, 20 years can do wonders! I would say, Seaham is not too far behind America. At one time, England was about 10 years or so behind the American "paraphernalia" and now I can guess, the UK is almost on the same par as some areas and the society of America - not so sure the British really like to hear that. I guess I am just very puzzled as to why on earth a lot of the locals still complain, moan and groan about the place. It appears to be more quaint than ever... Unless, it is that I am getting older and prefer quaint areas with a bit of character. For example, I love San Antonio over the newer suburban cities of Dallas, Austin and Houston and New York, Chicago, etc.. and so on.. San Antonio is in Texas, and has so much character from the southwest (Mexican Character..) The Missions are so heavenly to be in and you actually feel like ! you are back in time. Anyway... so again, please, people explain to me why a lot of youngsters and people my age are saying Seaham is boring, and I quote, some people say, there is "nowt" here." Whatever is the word "nowt?" I mean, I remember what it means, but heaven me! What kind of English is that??? Oh I am confused about why y'all complain about the place and also why it is that the youngsters are still getting pregnant as soon as they are leaving school. Why is the town looking rather quaint, and yet the youngsters are not appreciating their home. It also appears that there are more opportunities to excel in one's education now, as appose to when I was in school, so why on earth are the kids getting pregnant and rushing to get married at such a young age, instead of taking every advantage of the opportunities available to have a successful life. I think someone needs to educated me on the "up-dated" life of Seaham.
Jacqueline
USA - Tuesday, December 05, 2006 at 14:15:29 (PST)
Jackie, don`t you understand that millions of us simply don`t believe in your Jesus. You seem so surprised!
P Catching
Barcalona, - Tuesday, December 05, 2006 at 14:12:43 (PST)
All this talk about Mexico reminded me about a little story called The Bacon Tree............Two Mexicans are stuck in the desert, wandering aimlessly and close to death. They are close to just lying down and waiting for the inevitable, when all of a sudden......."Hey Pepe, do you smell what I smell? Ees bacon I ahm sure of eet."……………"Si, Luis eet smells like bacon to meee". So, with renewed strength, they struggle up the next sand dune, and there, in the distance, is a tree loaded with bacon. There's raw bacon, dripping with moisture, there's fried bacon, back bacon, double smoked bacon... every imaginable kind of cured pig meat…………… "Pepe, Pepe, we ees saved! Eet EES a bacon tree!"………"Luis, are you sure ees not a meerage? We ees in the Desert don't forget."………."Pepe when deed you ever hear of a meerage that smeell like bacon...ees no meerage, ees a bacon tree". And with that Luis races toward the tree. He gets to within 5 meters, with Pepe following closely behin! d, when all of a sudden a machine gun opens up and Luis is gunned down in his tracks. It is clear he is mortally wounded but, true friend that he is, he manages to warn Pepe with his dying breath…………"Pepe...go back man, you was right...ees not a bacon tree."……………."Luis Luis, mi amigo what ees it?..........."Pepe...ees not a bacon tree ...Ees ..........Ees ..........Ees .........Ees .................Eees a Ham Bush!
Beardy
M/wich, - Tuesday, December 05, 2006 at 14:11:55 (PST)
Thanks Lesley for your e-mail in response to my apology. We now have an understanding as to why we see things differently and have a few different views. I do want to let you Seaham people know that Lesely wrote me such an informative and beautiful, kind e-mail and spoke so very highly of the area and of Newcastle. I know Seaham has changed a lot over 20 years, some the same, some not. I see it when I sometimes browse on the image sights and see all the changes. So I am puzzled as to why some of the locals often do knock Seaham - when it apparently has had many positive changes. I am going to try to keep ALL American Politics OFF the Seaham guest book, and try to re-connect with Seaham and try to change my views and try to be more positive of the place and of the people. So, please people, explain to me why it is that the town has had many positive changes, yet local people still moan and groan about it?
Jacqueline
USA - Sunday, December 03, 2006 at 12:46:54 (PST)
Lesley, just in case my posting to you does not get up for a few days, I will try to e-mail you. I feel rotten that I was harsh with you.... Whoops! Yikes, even I goof up at "judging" without knowing all facts. Gosh, we all do.. but, at least, people, I seem try to quickly rectify my mistake.
Jacqueline
USA - Sunday, December 03, 2006 at 12:46:15 (PST)
Dear Lesley, Thank you for your postings.. Sorry I was a bit harsh. (My bark is worse than my bite.) Anyway, so glad that you did volunteer work. .. I guess I just get tired of hearing a lot of "expats" moaning and groaning about America, yet they are living a beautiful life over here. Everywhere in the world has issues at this time and there is not one country that is considered "perfect." Anyway.. again, I apologize I was a little harsh with you. "Susan" from Canada" I know Mexico is a wealthy country, it goes from wealth to poverty; but I do not like how most of the Mexicans are treated over here. You are not in America, you are in Canada, and so therefore, you do not see what is really going on. Anyway, my message was not for you, it was for Lesely as she lives in Arizona where it has been the most volatile topic of conversation. However, my speaking up as a advocate for Human Rights and Immigration reform is proving not to be so wise, given your "quick" commen! ts to me. I help my country a lot - and a lot of these people who come here are not the "rowdy" druggies.. they come for a better life. Some people have made this a "race" issue and it is not. The Mexicans I have been around, all work so very hard indeed for very little. Years ago when I was in my 20's I met a group of so called British nannies, my gosh! They were a disgrace to Britain and a disgrace in America. They were loud, going out drinking, dressed terribly for work, complained about American children and had absolutely no Christian morals or values. Most English girls who come to America for a year or so, are far from "proper" British ladies... and ask about where their conviction is of Jesus, they look at you and laugh! They are here to be loud, to drink and to sleep around. They get paid from Americans and then trash this society. I think that is wrong!
Jacqueline
USA - Sunday, December 03, 2006 at 12:45:16 (PST)
Hello Ron Masters if you are heading to NZ for Easter and find time for that pint my wife and I will have a couple of spare bedrooms and Taupo is very nice at that time of year.We also have a very good workingmens club called Taupo Cosmopolitan (very posh when compared to the Nack)please note I did not say better,Iwouldn't want to risk a backlash ha ha ha!Regards Jim.ps. If you put your e-mail address on the site I will forward my address and telephone number.EDITOR: If you add your email address Ron we will remove it and forward it to Jim. These days email addresses attract junk and we have been trying to avoid that.
Jim Robinson
Taupo, New Zealand - Saturday, December 02, 2006 at 12:52:44 (PST)
No, Jackie dear, The answer isn`t that we have to suffer your illiteracy - it`s that you could try rereading your posts before sending them. It might be worth you remembering that brevity is the soul of wit - and intelligibility...
P Catching
Barcalona, Spain - Saturday, December 02, 2006 at 12:48:46 (PST)
Poor Mexicans.Just google " Mexico is rich "to find the truth.If Mexico provided for it's population the American tax payer would be very happy. By providing shelter, care, to illegal immigrants from Mexico, you aren't doing them or your fellow Americans any favors. Mexico is a very rich nation .I do hope that you do google for the truth.
Susan
Canada - Saturday, December 02, 2006 at 12:47:54 (PST)
Jo Hausmann, I remember the football tour - back in '94? one of the players stayed at our house. I can't remember his name, only the fact that he brought an enormous boxing of chewing gum.
Ned Leather
- Saturday, December 02, 2006 at 12:47:11 (PST)
Jacqueline, I agree with you there are a lot of people worse off than even i was.I used to take a lot for granted untill i started doing voluntary work as a bus driver for the disabled and oldie's.I used to pick up quite a lot of disabled children and take them to school and youth clubs and in the summer playschemes its not untill you see how they just get on with thier lives no matter how handicapted they were.They were happy and very loving of course they had thier off days like any other child but that wasnt very often.If you look passed the disability thier are nice people underneath.As far as the old gannies go they could make us blush and no matter what age they to are full of life.
Lesley Roberts?
- Saturday, December 02, 2006 at 12:46:20 (PST)
Thanks to all our friemds who pointed out the deliberate mistake on some recent postings namely 31 November 2006. I thought that some of the comments were quite amusing but we're not printing them.
Ed Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Saturday, December 02, 2006 at 12:44:22 (PST)
"Lesley Roberts" Well, I do think it is time you came honest and let the kids of Seaham know there is more to life than staying in Seaham. You enjoy your life and you made the comment that there are "No Palm Trees or Swimming Pools in Parkside." That is a given, Seaham is not tropical. In all my years of traveling and living in the most elite zip codes, I have never made the comments that Seaham does not have palm trees - you basically say in your commentry on "friends" that you would not come back to Seaham. You know, as well as I do, we have a pretty decent life. Though, I think I do more for human rights in America than you do or give and you probably have "yoodles" more money than I do. I give back to America, what do you do? Take.. and then knock the American culture and society?
Jacqueline
USA - Saturday, December 02, 2006 at 12:39:50 (PST)
Have I missed something? I assume that Seaham must be awash with Mexicans now.Sherwood Forester - Notts. UK 31 November 2006
To "your friend" I guess I do need to proof read my comments before pushing the send button. I get so carried away with my opinions, that I type fast and make mistakes and then immediately want to press send. Given I do not proof read the comments I make, I ought to just accept other people criticizing of my writing.Jacqueline, USA- 31 November 2006
Hi,twenty years ago i was part of a german soccer team which was guest in your town.I enjoyed it very much and I hope i can come back sometimes.Joe Hausmann - Rheinberg,Germany - Thursday, 31 November 2006
T'was the night before Christmas and all through the town Not a sign of Jesus was anywhere to be found. The people were all busy with Christmas time chores Like decorating, and baking, and shopping in stores. No one sang "Away in a manger, no crib for a bed". Instead, they sang of Santa dressed-up in bright red. Mama watched Martha Stewart, Papa drank beer from a tap. As hour upon hour the presents they'd wrap When what from the TV did they suddenly hear? 'Cept an ad.. which told of a big sale at Sears. So away to the mall they all flew like a flash Buying things on credit and others with cash! And, as they made their way home >From their trip to the mall, Did they think about Jesus? Oh, no... not at all. Their lives were so busy with their Christmas time things No time to remember Christ Jesus, the King. There were presents to wrap and cookies to bake. How could they stop and remember who died for their sake? To pray to the Savior they had no time to stop. Because they needed more time to "Shop til they dropped!" On Wal-mart! On K-mart! On Target! On Penney's! On Hallmark! On Zales! A quick lunch at Denny's >From the big stores downtown to the stores at the mall They would dash away, dash away, and visit them all! And up on the roof, there arose such a clatter As grandpa hung icicle lights up on his brand new step ladder. He hung lights that would flash. He hung lights that would twirl. Yet, he never once prayed to Jesus... Light of the World. Christ's eyes... how they twinkle! Christ's Spirit... how merry! Christ's love... how enormous! All our burdens... He'll carry! So instead of being busy, overworked, and uptight Let's put Christ back in Christmas and enjoy some good nights! ~Author Unknown~ Jacqueline USA – Monday 27 November 2006
Dear "Anon" who use to live on Butcher Street, thank you again, for sharing with me parts of your life when you were a youngster. Again, this gives me insight to "where you are coming from" in your view points. I do consider myself to have been very fortunate that I have had an incredible opportunity to travel and to see how the "other half" live. I have been blest with the opportunity to mingle with some very wealthy friends of mine and their associates and friends. I, myself, am not wealthy, by any means! I love to shop and dine and visit museums and travel and spend my money and give it away. There are many people who need money for more than I need it. God provides for me, just as he provides for our homeless people, by giving me and others, a heart of deep love and compassion, that we have a burning desire to want to reach out and give back the human dignity to the poor, they so deserve. I have had a very interesting life. Thus far, I never married or had chil! dren of my own - have raised many other people's children, but not had any of my own. Often times I have become a little frustrated with God, as to why his desire is for me to stay single. Yet, for the most part, I give so much thanks, praise and gratitude to God, because though I did not get all I have prayed for, I have been given much more, beyond what I ever expected from life. God gave me a gift of being able to just "reach out" to others in need and make a beautiful and positive difference in their lives. I had a very interesting life growing up in Seaham, but what I learned to do, was use my own life experiences as a teaching tool to those who needed help. I also have an amazing ability to have insight and wisdom on a lot of things. I guess I must have an "old soul." Anyway, "Anon" I see where you are coming from, that I do and perhaps have just taken it for granted that I can just "get up and go" and travel, I am single and have no ties. Thank you for making me rea! lize my blessing. Hope you are well today... See you have just! touched my life by sharing with me parts of your own life. Have a beautiful day
Jacqueline USA – Tuesday 28th November 2006
Jacqueline, I fell off the mission house not rock house and it left me diabled on my right foot and leg but thats what you get for climbing so i cant blame anybody but myself.I was about 8 at the time and tried to con my parents by saying i sliped off the kerb needless to say it didnt work.
Anon – Tuesday 28th November 2006
How do you check your pronunciation on a web site?
Anon – Tuesday 28th November 2006
Anyone remember me?Iwas born in malvern, played football on the dump,swam in the claypit. Went to camden sq school and worked at dawdon pit. Would be nice to hear how people are getting on
david walls – Shotton, Co. Durham
I visit this site regulary and always enjoy reading the comments. Today I visit and low and behold there are links to gambling sites.I thought this was a guest book not an advertising room. SORRY LUCY. WE TRY OUR BEST TO KEEP JUNK OFF THE GUESTBOOK. IT HAS BEEN REMOVED. Ed Mason
Lucy
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Monday, November 27, 2006 at 16:20:48 (PST)
Miss Markie, have been reading your letters with great interest, you seem to "hit the nail on the head" in most ways and have a knack of putting your critics in their place without malice, if only other so called correspondents were the same, haven't any of these people practiced the "Golden Rule" and they should practice the old maxim, If they don't agree with what you say, they should respect your right (and others) to say it, that is what living in a democracy is all about, what one of constructive advice however is that you should proof read your letters before pressing the send button, we can all hit the wrong key at times and should double check our spelling, pronunciation etc.
your friend
- Monday, November 27, 2006 at 16:18:29 (PST)
Great site lovely to see Seaham has space on the web!
Ivor
London, - Monday, November 27, 2006 at 16:17:41 (PST)
Jacqueline,It depends which anon you mean because there are two of us at present and if your were more observent you would of realised who i am because i gave it away a few messages ago.Iam also the one who used to live in butcher street,who the other is i dont know.I used to be a local but sorry to say not anymore.I am 22 years your senior if you are only 37 3/4 and didnt realise the rockhouse youth club was still going when you would be a teenager.I am not trying to offend you but you go on about how you have traveled the world as if it was nothing but when you come from a large working class family its beyound a lot of peoples reach i only got to butlins because i worked there and to be honest dont care about what the kids do in other places but dont think they should be compaired with the ones from seaham as you seem to do.
Anon
- Monday, November 27, 2006 at 16:17:03 (PST)
Now where were we? -oh yes the parks thing. The only kids who didn't hang around parks when I was a nipper, were those with no friends. Seems to me that one or two of these unfortunates are still carrying a bit of baggage, manifesting itself in a tsunami of resentment. Let it go guys! ..it was never personal, we just thought you wore inferior clothes. If these youngsters really are making your life hell, move to Eastbourne and buy some fur-lined footwear. By the way does anyone know the Duffy's from Parkside?
Paul Bowmaker
Seaham, - Monday, November 27, 2006 at 16:16:31 (PST)
"Lesley Roberts" I just re-read your posting to me, and I see where you are coming from...... Thanks! See, we can all teach everyone something about life and view points. We all do not have to agree, but we all should try to see each others views on issues. Anyway, hope all is well... by the way, Lesley, I do recall about 6 years ago, we had e-mailed each other, and you made it very clear that you loved living in America and that life seemed to be far better than had you stayed in Seaham - I had agreed with you. So, really, both of us, should not really comment on what goes on in Seaham.(I am far more guilty of that, than you are... I seem to have the knack of "putting my foot in my mouth.") We both seem to enjoy our "cushy" little lives here in America - we both know we have far more than we may have had if life did not take us down a different path. I am not so sure what you do at your work, but my work I am with both the very wealthy and the extreme poor; as wel! l as those in the middle-ground, and my friends and associates are of all diverse groups. Consequently, I see things from both sides. I see the pregnant teenagers from wealthy families and poor families, I see the messed up drug children from both the wealthy and the poor families. I see the abused wives from both a wealthy family and a poor family - I see it all. Nevertheless, I am still a strong advocate for encouraging teenagers to study, and to reach to their highest goals in life.
Jacqueline
USA - Monday, November 27, 2006 at 16:15:36 (PST)
That Anon person has Jacqueline's dander up. I would say Jacqueline, thats his name - Mr. Anon. He probebly knew Mrs. Allen and her loveley butterkist she used to make and maybe John Shipley the High Collery School Teacher or maybe even Woodbine Lizzy who lived nearby. These thoughts are as far away from Texas Tea as you can get my dear, so give a thought to us peasents.
Brian Greenfingers
- Monday, November 27, 2006 at 16:14:58 (PST)
"Anon" I hope you did not hurt yourself too much when you fell off the top of Rock House. I am guessing you are a generation or so older than myself... so it is natural that your perspective of "teenagers" hanging at parks is a little different from my view. Thank you for sharing with me a little more about yourself, this helps me to understand where you are coming from in your opinions. You see, people of this guest book, "One must first seek to understand, before being understood." However, it is rather difficult to understand one, if others do not give one the opportunity to "lay out" all angles of view points, before being critical of one's suggestions/opinions. The amazing thing about traveling and working with such a diverse society (as we seem to have here in America)is that it helps one to understand "sociology" and often times the genealogy of people's lives. There is always a whole lot more beyond just the surface of what we see or hear or even read. We a! re all so very different, very unique, each with our own mind, opinions and views - we cannot all possibly share the same opinions. We have all been shaped by various degrees of life experiences. For those people in Seaham who were children during WW2, they have a completely different out-look on life, as perhaps those of us who were born in the late 60's - and we have a different out look on life to those who were born in the early 90's. Society and the way we live has changed, we have become a more liberal society (not always for the better.. though, some would choose to disagree with me) with change, has also brought opportunities to excel and flourish far beyond those opportunities that were present during the 50's, 60's, 70's and even parts of the 80's. So it is only natural that we haev many degrees of opinions presented during this discussion of why "Teenagers are drawn to hang out at parks that are meant for young children." We all see this discussion from very diff! erent view points... there is no right answer, or wrong answer! - just many different views on this topic..... and hopefully, we have all given each other some wonderful insight to help us all understand that instead of being critical to our youth, we should try to understand where they are coming from in their lives, (their home life) and offer encouragement, love, and a "listening ear" to those teenagers who are crying out to be heard, or who need direction in their lives. My direction came from an incredible amount of faith that I have, and also came from dear, dear friends of mine. I actually worked for the family for 5 years as their nanny to their 3 young children. I am God Mother to the youngest child, who is now preparing for graduation from high school. This particular family reached out to me, showed me a completely different life to live, they encouraged my education, they encouraged my confidence, and they encouraged me to reach to my highest potential in my life. They did not judge, instead... they sought to "first understand." It ! is when people make tremendous, positive impacts on one's life, does one want to reach out and do the same to others. Reach out to those teenagers in Seaham who are hanging at parks and try to encourage them to seek new interests - you never know, when you just may have been able to help a kid who was at state of despair.
Jacqueline
USA - Monday, November 27, 2006 at 16:14:08 (PST)
reading the events page i saw an article by Abby Brown community development officer for 3 schools in seaham.recntly i found a site for deneside infants, a school i attended many yrs ago.year2 class 2 teacher writes of hilda allen who taught there for most of her career and who wrote to the school in retirement.this teacher asks for info on the and despite trying i can,t get an E/mail address some of my happiest memories were at deneside and i would be grateful if abby brown would get in touch or if someone could pass this message on to her perhaps she can arrange a contact for me ..p/s is anyone else still alive who attended1937 to1941
r.masters
Seaham, UK - Monday, November 27, 2006 at 16:13:17 (PST)
Jacqueline you saud you went to a youth club next to the SMS school,i cant say i know that one,but i wonder how many people can remember the one at rockhouse or the one at high colliery or if anybody can remember the old mission house at high colliery i remember it well because i fell off the top of it,some people used to say it was haunted i dont know if that was true or not.When we were kids we lived in Butcher street next to the nack and we used to hang about at the colliery park so hanging about parks is nothing new.Thats when if you used the toilet you had the football results printed on your backside off the toilet paper and no skin so you sometimes walked funny.
Anon
- Saturday, November 25, 2006 at 15:37:51 (PST)
What a wondeful informative site please keep it up
Ngbada Onitsha
London, UK - Saturday, November 25, 2006 at 15:36:35 (PST)
goods words jackie your to brainy for them
Popey
Yorks - Saturday, November 25, 2006 at 15:35:31 (PST)
"Anon" I am assuming you are a "local" of Seaham.. and what you are basically saying is, What else can the teenagers do, other than hang around in playgrounds meant for the very young. I quote, you said, "There is nowhere else for them to go and difficult to get employment" So basically what message are you trying to say about Seaham and the north east? If there is no where else for teenagers to go worth while and employment is difficult to find... then, why shouldn't the teenagers be encouraged to reach to their highest potential in school, go off to college and University, broaden their horizons and move away and see the world. Also, I take it you have not been to America and seen some of the extreme wealth in Buckhead, Georgia, or Savannah, Georgia, or California, New York, New Jersey, Texas, Virginia, the Florida Keys and Palm Beach etc...There is a tremendous amount of wealth here in America. Oh, yes, I will be the first to say, there is also an awful lot of "! poverty" too..it goes from one extreme to the other. I know, because I have worked on out-reach programs feeding our homeless in the shelters and it sickens me to see why these people are homeless and have their human dignity taken from them - while the other half of the society are wasting food, or have so much toys and luxuries they don't know what to do with themselves. If you have seen half of what I have seen in my 37 and 3/4 years, you too, would want the kids of Seaham/north east, or actually any teenagers to want to reach to their highest potential in life, and to see what else is out in the world for them to explore and make a difference in their own lives, and the lives of others and even make a difference for their own country.
Jacqueline
USA - Saturday, November 25, 2006 at 15:34:43 (PST)
Ofcourse everyone is missing the point Jacqueline. It is not just about the younguns hanging about in groups You see, those same children before leaving home to congregate, dig into their toy box in the corner of the room or even under the bed and extract the small bottle of Vodca stashed there under their toys. Then they meet for a booze-up. It has been reported that many kids as young as ten are attending E&R at Hospitals for booze related ilneses. What ever next?
Brian Greenfingers
- Saturday, November 25, 2006 at 15:34:02 (PST)
"Anon" don't you have the courage to reveal your own name???? Wow! You can give it really harsh - yet, you don't want me to know your name, or anyone else to know who you are... that does not show much integrity.
Jacqueline
- Saturday, November 25, 2006 at 15:33:25 (PST)
hi i have just found the seaham harbour guestbook and was wondering if anybody remembers me dorothy tennick i went to camden square school 1962-1966 i havent been back for a long time but am allways interested inwhat is happening
dorothy mckay
Boston, Lincs. - Saturday, November 25, 2006 at 15:32:52 (PST)
Well.. I tell you what people of the guest book, perhaps my wording did not come across so gentle.. so with sincere, and great humility, I apologize for offending those of you who are living in Seaham. Life experiences "shape" people, and I think it depends on one's life experience in Seaham or anywhere, how one sees a place. As a matter of fact, I do have some fond, very fond memories of Seaham. (I also have a lot of memories that were unpleasant.) However, to your surprise, when I am speaking to others here in America about Seaham, I speak quite highly of the place.. always making sure I explain how historical Seaham is, explaining of St. Mary's Church, Lord Byron's Hall, Rock House, etc.. I have fond memories of the "pit-pond" Brownies, Girl Guides, and some of the church choir. I have fond memories of the Ametures, and some of school. I was not always so "prim and proper" and.. just as I am able to make such a "stir" on this Guest Book, I use to be able to do ! the same in class too! I must have a knack of putting my foot in my mouth! However, over the years life has taken me on many adventures; I have seen a lot of things, events that have made an incredible impact upon my life. I have mingled and crossed paths with thousands of people, (as we all have) and many of those people have impacted my life beyond expectations. I guess what I am trying to say, is that I am not that bad, I just have a different view of life and perhaps I just word my words sometimes in a gruff and abrupt way. Maybe if we all taught our children that there are more meaningful ways to live out their lives, our world would be in a better place.
Jacqueline
- Saturday, November 25, 2006 at 15:31:42 (PST)
Wow! "Jackie" You said it! “Parents who are intelligent moved away to the metropolitan areas.” So by your thinking that only leaves low intelligence life forms in Seaham. I have noticed that you never miss an opportunity to take swipe at the good people of Seaham, so don’t go blaming K M Woodward who made some valid points, yours were just insulting. Sorry lady, you are well out of order and may I add that a lot of the talented and educated people actually stayed in the town and some of the less talented, less educated went to live in places like America, thank goodness.
Beardy
M/wich, - Friday, November 24, 2006 at 10:25:10 (PST)
Dear "Lesely Roberts" Even though we disagree on mostly every topic we have on this Guest Book, lets put differences aside, I wish you a "Happy Thanksgiving" today. (Thursday November 23rd) Hope you are having a "Happy Turkey" Day! We do seem to disagree on a lot of things, mind you... Oh well.. that is okay; I am sure we can give each other a different perspective on things. Though, life experiences has a lot to do with how one is shaped - which attributes to our differences of opinions on quite a few topics. Though, I guess we both must like living in America.
Jacqueline
- Friday, November 24, 2006 at 10:24:14 (PST)
I cannot believe Jacqueline's preoccupation with pigeon-holing everyone and with class and education. I think that very few people end up living in 'upper-middle class' areas because they did not hang around in playgrounds. UPPER middle class (?) Come off it.
Anon
- Friday, November 24, 2006 at 10:23:36 (PST)
you (ALL) missed the point,your quote jaqui,reminds me of the passing out parade.only one man in the regt in step.. enough ,,to JIM Robinson& Colin HALL both in NZ.ihad the pleasure of contact with you both via the G/book around july re my son emigrating.the reasurrances from you both helped me as i,wasn,t in the best of health at the time.i,m glad to say he,& family are doing well& living in tauranga and appear settled in house &job.an example of how the g/book really works& my faith in the GOOD people of seaham intact& JIM i get out there easter that pint is still on'I,ll find you ,
R Masters
Stevenage, - Friday, November 24, 2006 at 10:22:52 (PST)
Calm down brothers & sisters this is getting out of hand! An article in the Sunderland Echo clamed that resident’s lives had been made hell by teenagers hanging around in gangs on a newly built playground at East Shore village. I had noticed on my travels that teenagers on the continent did not seem as interested in kiddie’s slides and swings as their English counter parts. I assume that French, Spanish, Greece and Italian young adults get just as bored as English ones and yet I have never seen a case where continental teenagers WANT to hang around a kiddies play ground. The very idea to them is absurd! Picture the scene if you will…15 year old Philippi is on the phone to his friend Franco in a small town just outside Rome. “Hey Franco what are you doing to night?’ Franco says “Oh I though I’d go down to the new children’s play ground and have a go on the slide!” Philippi says “What? The one that was built for 5 year olds! Hang on I’ll get my coat I am coming wit! h you!” It’s hardly a likely scenario is it and yet that is what is happening at East Shore almost every night!
K.M Woodward
Seaham, - Friday, November 24, 2006 at 10:20:36 (PST)
Hola P. Catching! como esta?I am also lucky enough to live in (well, just outside) Barcelona. I have just spent 2 weeks working in Croydon on a work placement, so I appreciatw just how fortunate we are.Where do you live? maybe we could meet for a Cerveca and tlak Geordie. My local is the Robin Hood (just off La Rambla)
Helen Kay
Catalonia Spain - Friday, November 24, 2006 at 10:19:43 (PST)
Jacqueline, Its youthat is missing the point its because of the past that makes seaham what it is now.You say why dont british/seaham teenages do some thing worth while rather than hang about in play parks ect,what can they do there is no where for them to go and find it hard to get employment so you been so clever tell them how can they do some thing worth while,and please dont bring religion into it.It seems that you think more of the good old USA than what i take as been your hometown.I love seaham and always will most of my family still live there and quite a few are burried there.As a teenager i hung around shops,parks and even the old toilets at the bottom of Parkside mainly because it was a meeting point for friends i even met a few of my exgirlfriends at them,i bet even when you were young teenages did something similar,unless you were one of these prim and proper people.Anyway Ray glad to help you mate sorry that the news wasnt good,and as far as pip goes i some times see him walking about his exwife is my brothers sister in law so if i see him i will tell him you are asking after him,sorry cant help with others.
Anon
- Friday, November 24, 2006 at 10:18:31 (PST)
TRUDY CLARK,I KNEW YOUR GRANDFATHER HE WAS MY DADS COUSIN.I SENT YOU AN EMAIL BUT GOT NO REPLY.HOPE YOU SEE THIS.
Lynn
Seaham, - Friday, November 24, 2006 at 10:17:48 (PST)
well said jackie its not how you write but what you have to say seaham folk dont like it up em
popey
Yorks - Friday, November 24, 2006 at 10:16:48 (PST)
well said jackie its not how you write but what you have to say seaham folk dont like it up em
popey
Yorks - Friday, November 24, 2006 at 10:16:44 (PST)
PS: people, some of my spelling is American spelling, we do spell a little different to British spelling and we do use a few different words. I do not criticize or critique other people's writing style on this Guest Book, or their spelling. I also do not insult other people's opinions by being hateful to their prespective on issues, as you all seem to do to me. I have said this numerous times before, "Differences of opinions helps keep a balance in society." Also, everything is relative and from one perspective and one's opinions; we do not always have to agree. However, if we do disagree with one, the best way to try to solve the disgreement, is by sticking to the original point... "Why is it that British teenagers/Seaham teenagers want to hang out at parks meant for the very young?" There is no need to be bringing up what was available 40 years ago, or what one did 20 years ago, or being all defensive.
Jacqueline
USA - Friday, November 24, 2006 at 10:15:43 (PST)
"old Mother Hubbard" If I ever decide to visit, (unlikely, pending on family issues,) I am not sure I will really want to go to the park for the "very young." As yet, I am not married and therefore, do not have children. I do not see myself having children closer to my 40's. Most of the people I went to school with, do not have young children, their children are closer to teenagers, with a few, who had children in their 30s. Thus, my visit, would merely be to spend some form of quality time with family. However, if I had the opportunity to visit with some of the "youngsters" in Seaham, I would be happy to speak to them of the incredible and beautiful opportunities they have around the world. Staying in one town, whether it is Seaham, or the suburbs of New York, Chicago, a small country town in France, or Germany etc... cannot possibly give to one an "open mind" and all the opportunities there are in life to excel and flourish to one's highest potential. One highest! potential could be anything from teaching, to mission work, to the corporate world, to nursing etc... What on earth, for Pizza sake, was so un-Christian about my agreeing with "KM WoodWard?" Stick to the point, "Why is it that British teenagers want to hang out at parks meant for the very young? We are not speaking of "recreational" centers, "KM Woodward" made it very clear, he was speaking of "parks for the very young." Gosh, even I use to go to a place called the "Youth Center" it was somewhere near the SMS school. But when I was a teenager, I did NOT hang out at playgrounds with swings and slides and things for nursery school age children. I was in the Brownies, Girl Guides, Amateurs, Church choir (could not sing a note, and still cannot!!) etc... Again, the point was "Why are British kids, Seaham kids who are teenagers hanging out at parks for the young." Stick to the point people, and stop trying to give me heck for words you are trying to put in my mouth.
Jacqueline
USA - Friday, November 24, 2006 at 10:14:55 (PST)
Ah the old Dilly - I spent many a happy after school hour sliding down on a bit of old corrugated iron! Sometimes the wind was so strong up there you could hold your arms out wide and lean right into the wind - well, I could.Jackie, I do enjoy your contributions and your simple faith but could you watch your grammar? I`m sure you weren`t taught to write that way in Seaham in the fifties. Don`t stop writing though!
P.Catching
Barcelona, Espana - Tuesday, November 21, 2006 at 15:36:08 (PST)
"Anon" Again, my comments were in response to another persons remarks/opinions/observations of British teenagers hanging out at playgrouds that are meant for young children. I was not putting down Seaham teenagers. This was not a discussion about "saying Seaham teenagers are bad" This was merely my agreeing with "KM Woodward." Everything is relative and everything is one's opinions and perspective. I did not put down Seaham Teenagers. The arguement/debate was "Why British teenagers/Seaham Teenagers want to hang out at playgrounds for the young, instead of doing something worthwhile." It had nothing to do with what American kids are doing, verses British kids, or anything to do with what went on and what was available in the "60's" etc.. Stick to the point, "Why do British teenagers have a tendency to hang out at playgrounds meant for the young." That debate was brought up by "KM Woodward." I was responding to his remarks.
Jacqueline
USA - Tuesday, November 21, 2006 at 15:35:04 (PST)
she,s back.the most offensive letter ive seen in along time.most parents were not afforded a uni education in the 40s,50s and 60s but they were not we had the benefit of ex cellent schools in seaham and teachers to match ..read the g/book..i myself was one of the kids who hung out at deneside rec in late 40s and 50s.from memory the GANG turned out 2midwives,1nursing sister,1 chief eng.marine.1 dental surgeon,1 columnist on a national paper 1 reporter on the echo myself in eng.taught apprentices for the last10 yrs of my working life.our lower class parents could only give us their best and i believe the parents of seaham still do. as for skills.,ive found everywhere ive worked N/E tradesman were regarded highly.it was a .grocers daughter who destroyed the source of these skills. as for the person who gave miss holier than thou the bullets to shoot i suggest he reads some back issues of the g/book ..parents orga! nised soccer leagues,jazz bands etc for the kids ..what have you done??what are you prepared to do? apart from moaning .and most of all what has missAMERICA done apart from offend ...my parents taught me if you cant say owt good ,,say nowt .perhaps jaqui,s parents were from this uneducated lower class she talks about and she feels let down .for everybodies sake read the principles of the g/book and use it for what it was intended.
r masters
Stevenage, - Tuesday, November 21, 2006 at 15:34:09 (PST)
You ALL missed my point and misinterpreted what I was saying. Besides, everyone has their own opinions and perspectives on things. Furthermore, I was NOT the one commenting in the first place on British teenagers or teenagers in Seaham, I was responding to otehr people's comments about Seaham, or it's teenagers. It is the locals of Seaham who give out mixed messages of the town, and when I respond to those messages you all give me heck! It is the locals of Seaham who either put down their own town on the world web for everyone to read. Or they are giving complete mixed messages of the town. "Colin Hall" I resent you picking at my writing style. "Lesley Roberts" I was not speaking a 'croc" either. If you read my whole posting, you would have read that I said, "Not ALL" teenagers have issues with hanging at the parks. Also, I had said that it is the locals of Seaham who give out mixed messages of the town. I have also lived and do live, in very affluent areas in USA,! and I too, see what the kids over here get up to. I work with them in youth ministry. However, we were not disccusing the comparisons of American kids verses Seaham kids, we were discussing why Seaham teenagers just want to hang out at playgrounds for kids. Instead of doing something worthwhile. I am a firm believer that everything begins in the "home." Love begins in the home, faith begins in the home, forgiveness begins in the home and so does education. Parents are responsible for their children's welfare, activities and education. I am speaking from being taught by dear friends of mine, who have become my family here in America.
Jacqueline
USA - Tuesday, November 21, 2006 at 15:32:25 (PST)
Jacqueline, for someone who claims to be so Christian, I hardly think it is fair for you to personally give Seaham a “stigma” of being “a town of low skilled citizens” and long for the town to be “restored” where “adults and children alike give dignity back to the town”!!! How very insulting! I know that none of the teenagers you know will be offended as they come from “educated homes” but you imply they are in the minority so you will be upsetting quite a few people. Please tell me…..when the long awaited day, that everyone in the town is so looking forward to, finally happens…yes, you know the one – when you visit Seaham again…will you feel obliged to visit the teenagers in the playgrounds and tell them of your travels, your wisdom and, hey, why not even teach them a bit English??!
Old Mother Hubbard
Seaham, - Tuesday, November 21, 2006 at 15:31:39 (PST)
Seaham folk seem to be spread all over the world. I'm glad our Queen dedicated a new New Zealand War Memorial in London a couple of weekes ago to the WW2 dead. I had a quick perusal of the NZ Herald on line and it told me that New Zealanders' are getting fatter, there is greater income inequality and voter apathy. No matter where you may look in the world, there are things which just do'nt seem right. Seaham ofcourse, is always being criticised but only by people who do'nt love it enough
Brian Greenfingers
- Tuesday, November 21, 2006 at 15:30:29 (PST)
I am afraid the dilly like most of the fun things of seaham are gone.One thing i must say that the teenages in seaham are just as well educated as any where else and because of the high rate of unemployment in the area and lack of venues for them to go they have to hang around the streets,we were the lucky ones in the 60s we did hang around certain places but we had youth clubs,cinemas and most of all the pits or buildings to work for.Its hard for parents to give there children what they want if there is no work.Seaham was a thriving little town once now its not.Do you think parents like to see thier children having to move miles away to earn a living.Jacqueline dont put the seaham teenages down there are worse teenages around the world than them if you want to put the blame anywhere blame the person that turned places like seaham into a unemployment black spot by closing the mines,and the future children do what they have to cull thier boredome
Anon
- Monday, November 20, 2006 at 11:28:53 (PST)
has anybody seen these old teddy boys. pidgy donaldson jimmy goodall. barty. mossy robson. billy cummins. paddy blair. and nutty shaw.
popey
Yorks. - Monday, November 20, 2006 at 11:27:11 (PST)
just reading some of the mesages brings back lots of memories of the times when i grew up in the village of haswell plough i visisted my home last year and found that not much had changed i am comming back again soon so will try and get to seaham. if anyone from haswell plough reads this message and knows me please sent a email best reards joyce
Joyce Harvey
carmarthenshire Wales - Monday, November 20, 2006 at 11:26:21 (PST)
Hello to any of my relatives who may browse this sight
Frank Christie
Bendigo, Victoria Australia - Sunday, November 19, 2006 at 16:13:16 (PST)
re JIM GILBERT I have lived at 80 the avenue for the last eleven years.I notice you would like a photo of your old house...I could send a one.Iseem to reme,mber a gilbert going toschool with me. If i am right ,you are about my age.Hope to hear from you.
E Cowell
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Sunday, November 19, 2006 at 16:12:13 (PST)
Just got on line here in Spain!Isn`t this website just amazing. It`s great to see all the Seaham folk contributing their thoughts.I never get home these days but it`s lovely to see thta the old home town is still blooming.Is the dilly still there to be slid down?
P Catching
Barcelona, Spain - Sunday, November 19, 2006 at 16:11:29 (PST)
I have been reading your guest book and have really enjoyed most of the postings, especially those of James Mather (its a pity they dried up so soon). I was friends with James in the mid 60's and have fond memories of the daft things we got upto. I left Seaham (and family) under a bit of a cloud in 1968 and have never really been back for any length of time. I came across James again on Friends Reunited, and it was through him I found out that the majority of my family had died within the last 30 months. To cut a long story short it was because of this I got in touch with an aunt and uncle I had not seen for over 40 years. A few names I will mention that I would like to hear from are Billy (Hatsun) Coates, Malcolm Crozier, Barry Grundy, Ken Wilmott, and John (Pip) Scollen. Thank you James mate.Ray Scollen (sometimes called Ray Williams)
Ray Scollen
Driffield, East Yorks - Sunday, November 19, 2006 at 16:10:34 (PST)
HiIwas born and raised in Seaham,something i am proud of like most people born or who have come to live here.Granted we have had some problems with young people in Seaham,but that means only some of them .Do not tar them with the same brush, we do have some great kids in Seaham.My husband and i have had 5 children but 4 do not live in Seaham as they married in other parts of the country. They all viit as often as thy can.How long is it since you visited here, you seem to know a lot about us Jacqueline? Iknow you did live in Seaham years ago.There has been a lot of building started lately so we are on the up.Be careful what you say about our kids in the future Heres hoping for abetter future for every one in SEAHAM
Lillian
seaham, Co. Durham UK - Sunday, November 19, 2006 at 16:09:23 (PST)
What a load of patronising claptrap Jacqueline; and your spelling and grammar, for a self-styled 'educated' person, are appalling.There are hundreds of reasons why teenagers are bored in towns like Seaham, and you have managed to miss every salient point through those rose-coloured spectacles you wear.
Colin Hall
New Zealand - Sunday, November 19, 2006 at 16:07:44 (PST)
I`ve just been watching Look North on the television. That poor soul they found washed up on our beach. Let us all rack our brains to see if we don`t know him. They are calling him `Seaham Man` it`s our responsibility to do our best to return him to the bosom of his family. Can anyone help?
Fr Corrigan
Seaham, UK - Sunday, November 19, 2006 at 16:06:56 (PST)
Gee Jacqueline I just hope that you aren't teaching English to immigrants.When I was a teenager we would hang out at the play ground .Where else was there? Young Canadian teens also hang out at the play grounds. They have fun , chasing each other, playing ball, doing what young teens have always done. I think our teens are wonderful, helpful, and kind. The bad teens get the press, the good teens ignored.Seaham teens are just like their peers around the world. In stead of complaining try being a little more caring. The teens in France, Italy, Cyprus, Malta, also frequent the play grounds. I've seen them there. No different from teens in Seaham.
Susan
Canada - Sunday, November 19, 2006 at 16:06:04 (PST)
Jacqueline, what an absolute crock of rubbish. Bored teenagers have nothing to do with social class, money, education and just Seaham. I live in a very affluent area in Phoenix full of film stars, pop stars and sports players who have every opportunity to impart good manners, education and values into their children and they still hang around, get drunk, have sex they just do it in posher places and drive around in Daddy's sports car.That's just a part of growing up and figuring out what life is all about. Not pretty at times but not confined to Seaham. You have such a naive view of life that comes across as downright condescending at times although I know you don't mean it.And not all good kids will go to college and then desert their home town. I have lots of my old friends who are college educated and have either stayed in Seaham or eventually returned home to put back into the community. Finally going to college is no guarantee of being a better person. Have you looked at the Forbes Billionaire list lately, most of them were drop outs !
Lesley Roberts
Phoenix, USA - Sunday, November 19, 2006 at 16:05:16 (PST)
norman owen married to ada lovett,lived in dalton avenue moved to northlea.could anybody give me the date of his death.
Relative
Seaham, Durham - Sunday, November 19, 2006 at 16:04:15 (PST)
I am not sending out any message in particular Jacqueline. It is just that teenagers in Britain (not just Seaham) seem to gravitate towards play areas that are not designed for them. The teenagers I noticed in other countries did not seem interested in kiddie slides and swings, but left the younger children to enjoy these things. Some of the towns I have visited have been quite small and out of the way places so I don’t think that travel and diversity from the teenagers point of view has much to do with it. I do not think that a 14 year old from a small sleepy town in the farmlands of France would have much time to see the world in between milking cows and cleaning out the pigs. I just don’t know what the answer is. Could it be a Peter Pan syndrome sweeping the nation? Maybe the young adults can tell us themselves why they feel the need to congregate in toddler parks.
K. M
Seaham, - Sunday, November 19, 2006 at 16:03:20 (PST)
I used to live in Eastlea in the seventies and have many fond memories of the town (mainly because I am getting old and drink a lot of gin). I used to deliver papers for Jackie Batey's shop. Is it still going? My friends here in Oz refuse to believe that there are houses in the UK made out of tin!
Phil McCracken
Down under, - Sunday, November 19, 2006 at 16:02:25 (PST)
Hi Ray yes that was me a life time ago - I do remember you.
Janet Rowe
St Sampsons, Guernsey - Sunday, November 19, 2006 at 16:01:36 (PST)
Wow! "K M Woodward" You said it! What is it with British teenagers? I think it is some of the teenagers in Seaham are bored and not challenged enough, they are not given "higher" expectations to reach to their highest potential. Parents who are intelligent, moved away to the metropolitan areas, and those parents in Seaham may not have had the opportunity to experience a diverse of cultures, and therefore, have not passed to their children the importance of "education" and steer them in other directions of educational activities, or activities that do not include "hanging" at the playgrounds, or having boyfriends/girlfriends at ages 12, 13, 14, and 15 years old... The teenagers in Seaham are bored. Not ALL, and I want to clarify that I said "Not All" There are teenagers whom I know, come from educated homes, and those kids will go on to University, and then move away to more upper-middle class locations. Seaham is actually quite "diverse" amongst it's local people..! . but unless one has the opportunity in their lives, to live in other countries and be exposed to cultural diversity and another "class" of people, then one does not fully comprehend the enormous amount of opporunities there are in life to continue with either futher formal education, or with travel, or the tremendous volunteer work one can do with the habitat for humanities, or become involved with teaching English to immigrants whose English skills are very poor, there is just a whole magnitude of amazing, incredible things for teenagers and young adults (even "mature" adults)to become involved with.... I hope in years to come, that Seaham loses it's "stigma" of being a town of low skilled citizens, and one day, be restored to a town where adults and children alike give dignity back to the town. I hear lots of mixed messages of Seaham.. some say it has greatly improved, and others say, it has become worse... those opinions are always of the "locals." So what message are y! ou sending out to the world about Seaham and it's citizens - mainly teenagers?
Jacqueline
USA - Tuesday, November 14, 2006 at 11:44:15 (PST)
I read with interest the report in the Echo about teenagers hanging around the newly built playground at East Shore Village and noted that is a strange almost entirely British phenomenon. Having visited several European towns over the last few years, when ever I have taken my children to playgrounds in Spain or France ect, it is only other 5 to 10 year olds who are using the playground. Continental teenagers would not been seen dead in one unless force to take a younger sibling from out under of his or her mothers feet! So what is the British teenager’s fascination with play equipment that is clearly far too small for them? Are they longing for the nursery? Do they lack the imagination to do other things more suitable to their age and stature? Who knows, but it’s a strange thing to do in my opinion, actually wanting to be in the play pen and not out side it!
K.M Woodward
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Monday, November 13, 2006 at 09:38:51 (PST)
I was wondering if Janet (Sowerby) Rowe was the same one who lived bellow me in Gateshead. Wots a TV Liicence?
Ray Leighton
Durham, - Monday, November 13, 2006 at 09:37:46 (PST)
Hello Lynn, will tell tony about your comments, ha/ha, but he dances like that all the time. have you seen my mam lately. you will have to show her how to use the computer. say hello to peff for me. take care.
Colin Shaw
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Monday, November 13, 2006 at 09:36:50 (PST)
Terry, I have tried to email you but with no luck.I can remember Bass and Geordie from when they went to my dad's youth club,Cuthies.Bass was a character,but I always thought a good character.I'm sorry to hear he hasn't been well, give him my regards. Take care. Marie (Mills)
Marie A. Ridley
Blackhall, Hartlepool UK - Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 15:50:07 (PST)
Hi Ron,iknow they moved from Ambleside ,i used to visit them when they moved along to the Glebe Estate along from the garage at the Lodge.Grace iced our wedding cake 50 years ago ,she was at our wdding with your Mother,i have a snap taken at the receptionthats all for now.
Lilian
Seaham, Co.Durham - Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 15:48:51 (PST)
Must admit I was shocked to see Lynn Reay on here, but then again, even Breezy is on the net these days
Susan
Oakville, Ontario - Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 15:47:58 (PST)
Thanks Lynn for your information about the Parrot, really like the sound of the beer on tick, but I would have thought the wives of the men concerned weren't keen. Thanks to everyone who sent information to my email too. All information will be passed on, and I've learned loads too.Ta
Helen Sichert
Seaham, - Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 15:46:47 (PST)
Thanks Lynn for your information about the Parrot, really like the sound of the beer on tick, but I would have thought the wives of the men concerned weren't keen.
Helen Sichert
seaham, Co. Durham UK - Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 15:45:59 (PST)
Colin what a lovely story about les Hood,as you know he was also my teacher at the S.I.S.he was also responsible for obtaining my first job working with his brother in lawJames Shaw at Youngs Motors in Sunderland.Great to hear he is still around and keeping well.
Tony from Spain
Espania - Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 15:45:01 (PST)
Hi all, Seaham's very own Sex Pistols sound alikes the Next Pistols have recently had some of there songs played on Durham FM.this show starts at 7.00pm finishes at 10.00pm every sunday night,you can find the show at 102.8fm or 106.8fm or if you go to www.durhamfm.net you can also hear the show there. Please show some support for these Seaham lads and contact the show sunday nights and request one of the bands songs, this would be greatly appriciated.You can see the band in Seaham on friday 17th nov at the shore bar, and sat 25th nov at Tow Low comm centre, this is for children in need, bands all day. Thank you.
pretty vacant
Seaham, - Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 15:44:08 (PST)
Hello Colin Shaw,Tell your Tony next time he dances in the snooker club to try and get a partner. To Cambo havent seen you for ages have you emigrated or did you move to Murton (Gods country) they say.
Lynn Reay
seaham, Co. Durham UK - Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 15:43:13 (PST)
Tucker,I dont live in Parkside now either I live down the harbour so dont go knocking on any doors.I dont see many of our old gang now,dont go out much stay in knitting and that!Dont know who Parkside Bloke is must be someone who shouldnt have been at our partys.
Lynn Reay
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 15:42:27 (PST)
all the folks i have read about in this book are all very warm and friendly people i was born obout the same time as most of these people and never new any of them sadly most of the folk i new were no good i have missed out somewhere
Popey
Yorks. - Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 15:41:31 (PST)
Hello, I do not originally come from Seham but my husband does. I am trying to find a photo/video of my husbands Dad playing in a brass band. His name is William (Bill) Soulsby and was the mine safety officer. He also played the cornet in Vane Tempest(I think) Brass Band. I would appreciate it if anyone had any info for me. Thanks
Vicky Soulsby
Wardley, Gateshead - Wednesday, November 08, 2006 at 15:11:12 (PST)
its nice to read about the old times in the harbour
John William Banks <Sunderland>
- Wednesday, November 08, 2006 at 15:10:03 (PST)
There'll be many a tale of Les Hood around. He was my English teacher in 4A at the SIS in 1955, the year I won a school prize for that subject. It was a voucher for ten shillings, and I used it to buy a book. The book was "The Cruel Sea" by Nicholas Monsarrat and there were two versions; one quaintly called the "Cadet" version, which had words like "breast" edited out, and the adult version, breasts and all! Well, without telling my old man why, I got him to pay the extra 2/6 for the adult version, which I still have. There was a school bible at the SIS, and during assemblies, one of us fouth formers was 'volunteered' to read a passage selected by old Weatherly, the Headmaster. I did it one day and was standing at the front next to Les Hood, and was given the signal to walk to the rostrum for the reading, and found that some wag had removed the marker and turned over a few pages, so I couldn't find the referenced piece. Les saw my predicament, and came over to show me where it was. That was 1955, so fast-forward to 1989 and I happened to be in England when my brother died, and was asked to do a reading at the service at St Hilda's, conducted by the now Reverend Les Hood. He gave me the nod to go up front, then leaned over with a small card on which he had written the reading and whispered in my ear "just so you'll get it right". Les was of course an RAF Navigator during the war and his aircraft was shot down over France and a number of his crew died. When he returned home, to teaching, we always tried to side-track him from the lesson by asking him to produce articles of his Nav kit, which included such things as a compass hidden in the heel of his flying boots, and a silk scarf with a map of France printed on it.I'm pleased to hear he's still alive and well. He's one of the best!
Colin Hall
New Zealand - Wednesday, November 08, 2006 at 15:08:20 (PST)
Hello Helen,Been looking through the Seaham Book,and it mentions the Parrot but not when it closed. Its real name was The Londonderry Arms and it was at the end of Pilot Terrace along ropery.It says beer was 3d a pint and was allowed on the slate until pay day.My mother-in-law Nelly Reay was a barmaid there.Hope that helps.
Lynn Reay
seaham, Co. Durham UK - Wednesday, November 08, 2006 at 15:07:20 (PST)
hi lillian, grace & matty are long gone,moved from ambleside to estate on right toward ryhope just past the lodge after i moved south, so i lost track of cousins.last i heard allison was teaching at chester le street,now ret,d and june was living high barnes area both with families... strange how you forget things as you get older MATTY was a club man for the co-op or joplings and always appeared POSH to us, he wore a suit!!! do they still have clubs nowadays or does every body use the plastic now..we didn,t have much in those days but we seemed a lot happier.or is it my rose tinted specs .only bad time i recall is getting my backside tanned for nicking apples from the vicarage at the crossing ,i didn,t think vicars hit you.. happy days the 1940s ron m..
ron masters
Stevenage, Herts - Wednesday, November 08, 2006 at 15:06:32 (PST)
Hello Terry, the weather is too hot at the moment, and tony is down here with me. was he sober when you spoke to him ha/ha.Tell your paul i am asking after him, is he still playing football. tell bass i will hold him to that drink. FOR THE LADY WHO WANTS INFO ON THE PARROT IT WAS SITUATED NEXT TO THE GAS WORKS,ALONG BY THE BOTTLEWORKS. I THINK IT WAS PULLED DOWN IN THE SEVENTIES. BECAUSE WE WOULD BUILD OUR BONFIRES ON THE SITE WHERE IT WAS. HOPE THIS HELPS.
colin shaw
seaham, Co. Durham UK - Wednesday, November 08, 2006 at 15:05:40 (PST)
Colin Shaw, Look after your self in Africa and I hope to see you round the Harbour through the Christmas time (hopefully before 9pm so I might remember it)
john williams
seaham, Co. Durham UK - Wednesday, November 08, 2006 at 15:04:39 (PST)
Lilian, please pass on my regards to Les Hood. He was my maths teacher at the SIS 1974-1979. A wonderful man who told us stories of his war years to teach us co-ordinates, and his Victor Sylvester rule for simultaneous equations. One of the good guys in teaching, and I respected him alot.
Elaine( nee Frater)
Seaham, Co. Durham - Wednesday, November 08, 2006 at 15:03:48 (PST)
message for colin shaw in nigeria maria from the blackpool joke shop sends her regards and she wants to know if you want a new BUZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
jason gregory
Rochester, Kent UK - Wednesday, November 08, 2006 at 15:02:42 (PST)
hya lynn,no honestly im not parkside bloke.besides i dont live in parkside,any more. sometimes wished i did though.your right we had some good times all those years ago.more,i dont really see many of the old lot now.i catch up with rob,mcginty now and again. next time im up parkside,ill call and you can put the kettle on.take care.
tucker stringer
Seaham, UK - Wednesday, November 08, 2006 at 15:01:45 (PST)
hi cambo u didnt leave your e mail address are ian cambell who was married to barbara bland and if so where are u living now terry
terry mckenna
Seaham, Co Durham UK - Wednesday, November 08, 2006 at 15:00:43 (PST)
Hi everyone.Let me tell you a story.Ijust found this site last week and i have been reading some of the things you all have written over the years.Rev.Les Hood is a friend of ours. O the 31st of march this year was our Golden Wedding Anniversary.The next day 1st of April we went back to Christ Church to renew our vows .Rev Les conducted the service for us.All our guests said what alovely service it had been.A good time was had by all.At 83 years young,he is still very busy.Thank you Les,God Bless.Another memory is Lenny Button. We lived at Westlea when my parents were alive and Lenny always came to borrow our shovel because it was alarge shovel and he could get finished quicker.Mother used to give him a sandwich and a cup of tea,a cold drink inthe summer. TTFN Lillian
Lillian Wilson
Seaham, Co Durham - Sunday, November 05, 2006 at 15:10:18 (PST)
anyone remember the metcalfs fro parkside they had the greyhounds
popey
yorks, - Sunday, November 05, 2006 at 15:08:39 (PST)
Hello Terry,I see you now and again when you are out and about,and i know that you are doing a cracking job looking after Bass.To say he used to be a bit of a character is an understatement!(and you had your moments as well mind!)I saw him a while back in the High-House and promised to pop down and see him,but never seemed to find the time,(thats not an excuse cos i've had a couple of hectic years myself)but next time i see you i'll get your address and definitely call in,THATS A PROMISE!!!,Ian.
Cambo
Murton, - Sunday, November 05, 2006 at 15:07:56 (PST)
Hi Ron its me again.I knew your Aunt Grace and Uncle Matty Heckles and your c+ousins June and Alison.They lived in Ambl;eside Ave when i lived in Hoy Crescent. I spent my first day at Byron terrace school sitting at Junes desk with her and Margaret Rowell. Have any idea where June is now as we lost touch. TTFN for now. Lillian
Lillian Wilson
Seaham, CO Durham - Sunday, November 05, 2006 at 15:06:47 (PST)
Hi,I work at the library in Seaham and have had someone asking for information about a pub called the Parrot, mainly the year it closed but any other information would be appreciated. We think it was situated at Ropery walk.TaHelen Sichert (formerly Barnes for anyone who knows me)
helen <helensichert@yahoo.com>
Seaham, Co Durham - Sunday, November 05, 2006 at 15:05:27 (PST)
Yes Lynne,you must certainly have kept it well hidden,you should have been a magician or a smuggler!,especially in the days,(which seem a million years ago now),when we used to party every week-end,enjoying fine wine,discussing the latest plays and reciting poetry,(yeah right!),Journey and Queen blasting on the record player,no c.d players then,happy memories eh?
PARKSIDE BLOKE
SEAHAM, - Sunday, November 05, 2006 at 15:04:10 (PST)
HI COLIN SHAW DONT BE WORKING TOO HARD OVER IN AFRICA WHATS THE WEATHER LIKE THERE ITS REALLY COLD HERE AT THE MOMENT WAS TALKING TO YOUR TONY LAST SATURDAY NIGHT IN ENGINEERS BASS ASKING AFTER YOU SAYS NEXT TIME YOUR HOME HE WILL HAVE A DRINK WITH YOU SEE YA
terry mckenna <TerMil@aol.com>
SEAHAM, DURHAM UK - Sunday, November 05, 2006 at 15:03:00 (PST)
HI TERRY PARKSIDE BLOKE MUST BE TUCKER STRINGER,ONLY ONE THAT REPLIED.WE ALL KNOCKED ABOUT MANY MOONS AGO UP PARKSIDE SHOPS. TELL BASS IM ASKING AFTER HIM.
Lynn Reay
Seaham, Durham England - Sunday, November 05, 2006 at 15:01:29 (PST)
Beardy, We mustn't play manopoly on the 'net. As Beardy says Bill the imposter in SA. Get that mask off and reveal yersel lad or lass. What are ya scared of? Anyway Beardy marra, any news from Danny. No mail from Shirley yet. Have you got more problems with the infernal PC again? Do you want me to ship you a few thousand Rand for a new one? Get down to the slope & I'll stick it in a bottle. Well got to get some sleep now. Since your clocks went back, we're two hours aheed of you now. So it's quite late here now. Will send you some mails from the PC at the graft tomorrow.Ta ta for now.
The Real Bill in SA
- Sunday, November 05, 2006 at 15:00:03 (PST)
HELLO JOHN WILLIAMS, ITS COLIN SHAW HERE. WAS BORED AT WORK DOWN IN AFRICA, SO LOGGED ON TO THE GUESTBOOK TO SEE WHO WAS ON. I HAVE SEEN YOU MANY TIMES IN THE WATERING HOLES DOWN THE HARBOUR. I WILL HAVE A PINT WITH YOU WHEN I GET BACK IN A MONTH. TERRY MCKENNA SAY HELLO TO BASS FOR ME AS IT IS A LONG TIME SINCE I SEEN HIM. HE IS A GOOD HARBOUR LAD.
colin shaw <shawsyftm73@yahoo.co.uk>
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Thursday, November 02, 2006 at 12:42:49 (PST)
hi,lillian,you got it right.florry was my mother,died 1996,brother bill lives at boldon is only member of family left in n/east that i know of ,and i do remember lizzie.still love the old place but most of my visits are now via the g/book or the ECHO on line..ron m
r masters
Stevenage, Herts UK - Thursday, November 02, 2006 at 12:41:34 (PST)
HI JOHN WILLIAMS NICE TO GET A RESPONSE FROM SOMEONE IN THE GUESTBOOK IVE HAD AN E MAIL FROM LYNN REAY AND YES OF COURSE I REMEMBER YOUR DAD HE WAS A CHARACTER BUT REALLY NICE HIS COMMENTS TO ME AND MY SISTER WERE ALWAYS COMPLIMENTARY AND NICE ONE TO YOU LYNN WHO IS THIS PARKSIDE BLOKE I BET HE WONT REVEAL HIS NAME AFTER HIS CHEEK
terry mckenna <TerMil614@aol.com>
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Thursday, November 02, 2006 at 12:40:32 (PST)
Hi John I used to babysit you and your Jimmy you owe me a half.who could ever forget carbine he was my brother Ronnies best mate.What a character.
Lynn Reay <lreay@tiscali.co.uk>
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Thursday, November 02, 2006 at 12:39:15 (PST)
Hello Tucker Im very well thanks hope your family are ok.
Lynn Reay
Seaham, UK - Thursday, November 02, 2006 at 12:37:36 (PST)
Terry mckenna and Lynn Reay, good to see some locals I know on the site. You knew my dad (carbine) better but I have also been known to frequent some of the Harbours fine drinking establishments as well(in moderation of course) keep up the visits to the site
John Williams <wcarbine@aol.com>
Seaham, UK - Wednesday, November 01, 2006 at 11:49:51 (PST)
hya lynn reay nice to hear you on here hope your well,tucker
tom(tucker) stringer
Seaham, UK - Wednesday, November 01, 2006 at 11:48:52 (PST)
Joan Dymytryshyn hi coz fancy seeing you on here . If you wanted a police bottle you should have said I maybe could have sent you 1.This is the first time I have looked at this site since it was set up. Nice to see my old friends Mike and Carole Harrison who now live in Vancouver. I have just spent an interestng hour going through all the messages. It brought back so many memories. I went to Ropery walk Juniors left n 1959 for Ryhope Grammar - hated that! Even though I still live in Seaham have lost touch with almost all my old friends- would be great to hear from anyone.
Malcolm Wilkinson <gilpin1@hotmail.co.uk>
Seaham, Co. Durham England - Wednesday, November 01, 2006 at 11:46:07 (PST)
Hello Parkside bloke who are you.I,ve always been educated just never shown it
Lynn Reay <lreay@tiscali.co.uk>
Seaham, Co.Durham England - Tuesday, October 31, 2006 at 14:58:26 (PST)
Hi Ron,the twins are my cousons.I used to live in Hoy Crescent.Are you any relation to the late Florrie Masters? She was agood friend of my Mother,Lizzie Strong.
Lillian
Seaham, Co.Durham UK - Tuesday, October 31, 2006 at 14:56:35 (PST)
Bill/beardy get real lads, you dinna have a monopoly on names, real or tutherwise!
Bill in SA
- Tuesday, October 31, 2006 at 14:55:27 (PST)
hi does anyone out there know my partner his name is barry newton re bass he used to be a character but he is poorely now after several heart attacks and strokes i care for him full time if anyone knows him will you please drop him a line thankyou
terry mckenna <TerMil614@aol.com>
Seaham, UK - Tuesday, October 31, 2006 at 14:54:39 (PST)
HELLO LYNN REAY,I CAN'T BELIEVE THAT YOU'RE GETTING ALL EDUCATED AND USING COMPUTERS NOW! X
PARKSIDE BLOKE
Seaham, UK - Monday, October 30, 2006 at 13:04:57 (PST)
I was born in the Duke of Wellington my maiden name is edwards my mam was doris nee gustard and dad eddy
Lynn Reay <lreay@tiscali.co.uk>
Seaham, UK - Sunday, October 29, 2006 at 13:44:09 (PST)
Hi anyone remember me?Ileft the SMS Christmas 1949.I played netball on the school team for 3 years .I was known as Strongy.I was a blonde inthose days. I married John in 1956.Is there anyone out there that remembers me? Lillian
Lillian Wilson nee Strong <lillian@pitpond50.wanadoo.co.uk>
Seaham, Co.Durham UK - Sunday, October 29, 2006 at 13:42:53 (PST)
Re the pier photo I asked about, sorry folks but I am having problems with the email address I gave. If anyone can send a photo please use the following email address – rrrpete@fsmail.net - thanks.
Beardy
M/wich, - Friday, October 27, 2006 at 05:59:14 (PDT)
Help, has anyone got a photo of the Seaham landscape looking back towards town from the end of the pier. If so I would love a copy my email address is – beardy29@wanadoo.co.uk. I was in Seaham last week and unfortunately I couldn’t get onto the pier to take a photo for myself.
Beardy
M/wich, - Friday, October 27, 2006 at 05:57:53 (PDT)
Real Bill, yes marra I did get the info you sent and it was helpful. I am still having a few problems but I should have it sorted soon. I did realize we had an impostor on the scene but this guy seems to have a good sense of humour so I just went along with the banter. Do you reckon he knows us? C’mon Bill the Impostor who are you?
Beardy
M/wich, - Friday, October 27, 2006 at 05:56:35 (PDT)
to wendy we were very good friends of stan+maureen weatherall i have sent you an email
Charmaine <malcolm@sattv.wanadoo.co.uk>
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Wednesday, October 25, 2006 at 15:50:43 (PDT)
Hi Howard Kirby, is your sister Liz still living in Australia? I would love to here from her after all these years.
Hilary <Karapiro@cwgsy.net>
- Wednesday, October 25, 2006 at 15:49:21 (PDT)
Hello all, I wondered if any one has any information abouth th "Weathrall" family. Me gran was maureen and grandad was Stan. I just wondered if there are any other family around. Woule love to chat, I never got to see either of my grand parents before they die. Thanks and wonderful sight love wendy
Wendy Podd <wendypodd@hotmail.com>
Sunderland, Tyne & Wear - Wednesday, October 25, 2006 at 15:47:51 (PDT)
My great/great grandparents lived next door to the Sunderland Bridge Inn at Monk Heseldon in the latter part of the 19th Century. Does anyone know where this was or is please?
Jim Kirby <james@kirby1914.fsworld.co.uk>
Washington, Tyne and Wear - Sunday, October 22, 2006 at 15:41:31 (PDT)
Parkside Girl, so its two years since you visited the Guestbook? Is it too much to hope that its another two years before you come back?
Seahamlad
- Sunday, October 22, 2006 at 15:40:21 (PDT)
Hi Howard Kirby, is your sister Liz still living in Australia? I would love to here from her after all these years.
Hilary <Karapiro@cwgsy.net>
- Sunday, October 22, 2006 at 15:39:48 (PDT)
Hello all, I wondered if any one has any information abouth th "Weathrall" family. Me gran was maureen and grandad was Stan. I just wondered if there are any other family around. Woule love to chat, I never got to see either of my grand parents before they die. Thanks and wonderful sight love wendy
Wendy Podd <wendypodd@hotmail.com>
Sunderland, Tyne and Wear - Sunday, October 22, 2006 at 15:38:59 (PDT)
Does anyone have any information on my Grandfather? I think his first name was Cecil and he lived at 76 Stanley Street He had a son named George Kenneth. I visited Seaham 4 years ago, first time in 30 years...its changed a bit
Peter Hepplewhite <peh@satairhg.com>
Southend, Essex UK - Sunday, October 22, 2006 at 15:37:45 (PDT)
hi my name is terry mckenna does anyone know me or my family my fathers name was norman my mothers name is winnie naylor nee reay ive lived in seaham most of my life and also in murton i love this guest book and recognise lots of names in it especially joe mcveigh whom i went through school with
terry milner nee mckenna <terMil614@aol.com>
seaham, durham uk - Sunday, October 22, 2006 at 15:36:27 (PDT)
To tell the truth I in a real delight of that you have created. I cannot call it as site at all. It is the whole world and life for the people keen by this theme, for people with the common interests. I think, that the purpose of your site is to unite people with similar sights.
Larisa Koh
New York, - Monday, October 16, 2006 at 14:15:44 (PDT)
Ian C Hi I have re written my e-mail address you should get through now don't have a computer at home so use the oneat work.Look forward to hearing from you soon.Helen
Helen Mounter (nee Robinson) <helen.mounter@bristolfruit.co.uk>
- Monday, October 16, 2006 at 14:14:30 (PDT)
This story m