Guestbook


MINERS BANNER FUND	Mining Heritage Project2006	HARBOUR NEWS & EVENTS


Guestbook 2010
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 offensive or of a xenophobic, fascist or paediaphiliac nature. Personal attacks which may be considered to be potentially libellous are not allowed.If you have a criticism it should be supported by facts and is only valid if you identify yourself and your real email address. This is no different from what local or national newspapers would expect. We receive lots of requests to advertise other sites on the Guestbook. Our policy is not to allow advertisements here.

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hi it's good to see jimmy mac &tonka are still up there has any body got any email contact numbers for them.thanks.
jimmy inions
bury st edmunds , - Monday, March 08, 2010 at 15:13:58 (PST)

Simon Hudson! That's a name I've not heard for a while. I was at Cuthies a year after you, briefly while it was still up at Eastlea then down behind the Mill Inn. Aren't you cousin to the Hudsons - Mick, Laura, Robert etc etc? I was in Rob's class with the likes of Steve Donnelly, Frank Lanaghan, Mick Wallace, Colin Patching, Paul Hamilton etc as well as the wonderful Tonia Jobes and Anne Hurst, Elaine Lennox, Janice Little and the delectable (mini skirt and white knee high boots) Veronica Corcoran. I was a fan of Mrs Needham too. I managed two (not unpleasant) years with Mrs Hill before making the tactical error of going to St Aidans. If you thought Peterlee was bad you should have tried life with the Christian Brothers! Mad as carrots and would kick or punch you soon as look at you. Worst of all - no girls... You don't know how lucky you were at Peterlee... The best thing about Cuthies was the Dilly. On a windy day you could stand at the top with you arms spread out and feel as though you were flying - leaning out into the wind. Mind you, you were a Station Road dweller so it was a bit out of your way mebbe. It was pefectly placed for those mooching their way back to Eastlea. Then it was up past where Tonia Jobes's dad built the ice cream factory and on up the steps beside Tot Henry's shop. Tot "nee nickin" was always ready for a joke and he'd sell you a woodbine and a match on a friday night on the way down to the scouts at Cuthies. Good to hear you're still about the place Simon. As you can see, the very sound of your name's got me thinking of my misspent youth... cheers mick smith
mick smith
nr Bordeaux , - Monday, March 08, 2010 at 15:12:55 (PST)

Jim Sunderland, do you remember the Harrison´s in butcher street?
Marilyn Chisholm nee Sayer
Sorbas , Almeria Spain - Monday, March 08, 2010 at 15:09:52 (PST)

Brian, (re-Seaham Colliery) did you ever sit on the low sills of the blacksmiths' windows, when the shutters were open, to watch the blacksmiths fashion wonderful wrought iron things but mostly horseshoes for the pit ponies? Then there was the steel staircase up to the steam winding engine where you could watch the engineer pulling the leavers on the gleaming steam engine to bring the tubs of coal up to the surface or to take miners down the shaft. To those correspondents who do not know Seaham or its coal mines, I think we should point out that 'The Dilly' was the gravity railway line that sent, perhaps a dozen, full trucks of coal down to the docks two miles away for the coal to be shipped off to Europe. An attached steel hawser pulled a line of empty trucks back up from the docks to the colliery. Half way to the docks the single railway divided into two tracks so that the full trucks could pass the empty trucks, then again merge into one line; ingenious!
Les A
Billingham, - Monday, March 08, 2010 at 15:08:20 (PST)

Jim of Sunderland, thanks for those memories. They must have rebuilt most of Seaham now. When the old houses in Cornish Street and the like got dammaged in the War they did'nt bother to repair them. To think I saw the very first Prefabs arrive and then the steel houses were built. It was a different world then. I'm still looking for Brian Oliver if he's still around?
Brian
- Monday, March 08, 2010 at 15:07:09 (PST)

Just to see the history of Seaham
Julia Jean Andrews
Seaham, - Monday, March 08, 2010 at 15:06:01 (PST)

Hi Jimmy Inions, Jimmy Mac and Tonka are still about i know that for sure.
no name
seaham, - Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 14:04:04 (PST)

Gill it's possible to get death certificates of those who died at sea. Have you tried to get the death certificate? It may be in the Peterlee office, if he died at 'home',if not perhaps look on line for they "died at sea" web sites.Getting it will aid you in your research.It's worth a try.
susie
canada - Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 14:03:11 (PST)

Great site, try to return to Seaham every year, love to contact old friends.Sad to see Camden square and Dawdon jnrs gone
philip vickers
B/Kara, Malta - Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 14:02:12 (PST)

Steve McCafferty George Scott. I believe that Alice married George Scott . You can buy the certificates at Durham County Records. Surname Forename(s) Year District 92% SCOTT George R 1878 Durham Eastern 92% RHODES Alice 1878 Durham Eastern
susie
canada - Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 14:00:55 (PST)

STEVE McCafferty The following may be your Rhodes. Burials Easington Annie Rhodes abt 1861 1914 Another Annie Rhodes , or perhaps the same one, married a David Cook in March 1885. I say this as the two Annies were both born about 1861 Burials Easington Eli Rhodes abt 1863 1911 Seaham Harbour Alice Rhodes married June 1878 .She married either James Rorch or George Scott. I'll see if I can find which of the two married Alice. Hope this helps. Check Durham Recods which is online.Plenty of Rhodes there just put in last name, click on search. The marriages I found at the free bmd.
susie
canada - Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 14:00:00 (PST)

I wonder if anybody knows the where about of valerie heaton (nee phillips),she is married to john heaton from parkside and they have one daughter adrienne and moved to northwich i belive,the reason i want to find her is that her sister is very ill in hospital and would love to here from her.
jim
sunderland, - Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 13:58:26 (PST)

Brian Greenfingers, the steel houses are still standing at Eastlea. My mam and dad live in one, and my sister lives in one straight opposite them
liz metcalf
seaham, - Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 13:57:03 (PST)

hi derek after i sent the message i realised got you muddled up with the consetts i lived in the street for a little while i rem your brother brian .my brother who was a lot younger than your brian always tagged along with your brian and brian was really good about it he was a lovley boy brian i rem him very well i also rem your mam its a small world take care sharon
sharon osborne nee cross
grays, essex - Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 13:56:03 (PST)

Brian i remember dilly well infact i used to live in butcher street which was next to post office street.The dilly was just across from there as was cosy lenny was nearly always first in que and mr lamb the manager always gave him a tube of ice cream and lenny always had his own spoon.I also can remember blacksmith shops near the coal shaft and the bunkers where the coal bunkers used to get filled then there was canteen and baths.I can also remember tot and peter henry they had shops on opposite corners of row.Thier sister went to our school saint cuthberts that used to be opposite peters shop and because it was in two parts the other was behind mill inn pub.Do you remeber the old mill that was naer there.
jim
sunderland, - Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 13:54:45 (PST)

Houses or Rabbit hutches where the Cosy Cinima was? The Cosy Manager will be spinning in his grave! Mr. Lamb was his name, us kids thought he was 'orrible! I liked the 6d seats cos the 3d seats were wooden forms...memories! On the right of the Cosy was the Laundry and on the left was a field and a beck on the other side of that field. We plodged in the beck a few times. The Park oppersite the Mill Inn, was overgrown and neglected by the then Seaham U.D.C. Lots of naughties used to happen in the long grass in the Park!!! The only decent thing in the park (1950/1) was the fenced off War Mamorial. Futher up from that was boaling greens. Eric Leighton, I think I'm a bit before your time and I never knew anybody with your name. My favourate time was when the Shows (Fair) come once a year to the Park just inside the enterance. All the music they played was 1940s style. Elvis had'nt sang "Heartbreak Hotel" yet! When you think of it...everything was going full pelt then. The Mines, Knack, Dawdon, Vane Tempest. Brick-works Crompton & Harriso. Docks full of Colliers and much more.
Brian Burton
- Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 13:53:05 (PST)

My father, Jack Swain Livermore, was born (in 1919) and raised in Seaham Harbour and lived there until he was 10 years old. His parents, John Livermore and Maria Stammers, moved from Seaham to the USA and settled in Cleveland, Ohio on the coast of Lake Erie. My Dad passed away recently but through his entire life, he held true to his English heritage. His house was full of books, music, photos and collectables all representing his proud heritage. Thanks for providing a Guest Book. Great idea!
Mike Livermore
Brecksville , Ohio - Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 15:41:03 (PST)

To Cath Mather re Linda Clark. Cath,it is 5 years since you responded to my message! I am so sorry I did not put on my personal email but a temporary work email which I no longer have access to. Personal circumstances meant I had not been continuing my search and have only just logged into the guestbook again. I would dearly love to hear from you, or anyone else who can help me, the email you gave is no longer valid and I feel very worried that I have missed out on a great opportunity to discover some vital information. I would greatly appreciate any feedback, and will be checking back regularly
Sara Edwards
Sawbridgeworth , Herts - Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 15:39:39 (PST)

Hello.I am trying to trace my roots as far as I can. If anyone has any information I would be very grateful. My grandmother was Alice Lawrence and she married William Rhodes who, I believe, was a miner at Easington Colliery. They lived in Horden. My great grandmother, ? Lawrence, died on the day of my birth - 10/3/53. I know my great grandmother had two daughter s - Alice and Annie and a number of sons who apparently all died. Some of these during WW1. I am keen to find any information about my family
steve McCafferty
Norfolk (ex Bristol) , - Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 15:38:10 (PST)

to gary purdy, paul mcgann won the deneside school competition to open the new road didn't he?
john halliday
seaham, - Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 15:36:29 (PST)

Jim (Sunderland) and Elizabeth,Thank you for the Info. The Timber yard was for the Knack's Pit-Props. I crossed it from the ballally wall which has been knocked down now I believe? I came out at the end of the Blacksmiths shops with the Pit on my right. Went down the Dilly too sometimes. The Laundry was next to the Cosy and Lenny Button was there sometimes. There was the High Collery School and Steel housese and prefabs but I expect it's all brick houses now? Well this is all very well remembering, but the trouble is that people I went to School with like Nornan Beer are gone now and that makes remembering harder. Cheers and I would like to know any other snippets of info...Brian.
Brian Greenfingers
- Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 15:35:24 (PST)

to, mary lucy robson, your my cousin, havn't seen you in years. your uncle johnny halliday was my dad,(died 1989), contact me
John Halliday
seaham, - Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 15:33:57 (PST)

Ooops! Should I have added my name to the end of my message? I'm Kathleen Kingston. Maiden name Watters.
Kathleen Kingston
Wrexham, - Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 15:32:51 (PST)

Have just found this site so thought I'd join in.I attended Camden Square from 1958 to 1963. Miss Burgess taught us English. We read The Merchant of Venice where is the line , "Tell me where is fancy bred?" Murleys, was scribbled in the margin of my book and I still giggle when I remember that. I bet Murleys is gone now. They had bakers shops in Church Street and Station Road and baked the best stotty cakes ever. Whilst I was growing up in Seaham I couldn't wait to leave the place. A girl in my class, Marilyn Lilley, emigrated to Australia in 1959/60. I was so envious, I tried to persuade my mother to go on a £10 passage. Has anyone heard anything of the Lilley family? It's 30 years since I finally moved away from Seaham and, from this distance, I appreciate the place more now and hope the town has a bright future.
Kathleen Kingston
Wrexham , - Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 15:31:56 (PST)

Hi Sharon, Thank you for remembering my familiy but I'm not sure I remember you, I was hardly ever around after about 1968. I only had one brother, he was about 6 years younger than me, and his name was Brian. His best friend was also called Brian (Consitt) and it was he that had a brother called Albert, and also a sister Tracy. They also lived in Embleton Street. Unfortunately my brother was tragically killed in a motor cycle accident when he was eighteen in 1974. My mam eventually moved to Queen Alexander Road and died in 1997 so I rarely visit Dawdon any more but I still keep in touch with Mrs Consitt who was a very good friend to my mam.
Derek Close
Warwickshire , - Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 15:30:03 (PST)

Re-The Cosy. To Greenfingers, the timber yard you passed going to the Cosy was the timber yard in the Knack Pit(behind the fence) as the timber yard at Elgy's was at the bottom of Adolphus st over the railway crossings AT Seaham Harbour. Tot Henry died a few years back and was in the local paper, about being a local hero during WW11 and was presented with a Medal by King George himself. He received the medal for bravery during the war by going out in MTB boats across the North Sea to rescue RAF pilots who having being to Germany on a bombing run. Also attacking ships in the same sea. A local Hero indeed. To Elizabeth Metcalfe- Where the cosy picture house stood is now private houses. Or Rabbit Hutches because of their size.
ERIC LEIGHTON
Seaham, - Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 15:27:50 (PST)

My mother was born at seaham harbour in 1918 her father being a miner. Her address was sophia street and I understand that it has long gone. My mother recently died and we thinking of visiting seaham in the summer and would appreciate any advise as to how to go about making our visit as worthwhile as possible.
Christine O'brien
stockport , - Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 16:12:44 (PST)

Hi Denis Gale , Thanks for the info on John Robson we ere friends from about 56 until 61 when I left Seaham to go to sea. We were good friends and I was slightly disappointed when he decided not to join the Merchantile Marine ,I think he would have enjoyed himself and it made the break with Seaham , still we all have our reasons. John Brennan
john brennan
hong kong, china - Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 16:10:35 (PST)

TO VERA,thank 4 all those names from our class.Ian and Raymond were good friends of mine and the other names jumped out at me as I read them,it's a pity about our minds forgeting things as we get older,and I'll be 60 next month.I'm not a fan of the soapies so I haven't bumped into anyone famous. Congratulations on your Ruby anni in NOV. Do you keep in touch with any of our classmates? It was great to hear from, take care and have a great 2010 especially NOV.
DAVID GAUT
SYDNEY NSW - Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 16:09:06 (PST)

GILL The following named are the children of Samuel George and Jane. Go to Durham Records , dozens of Harts there. You'll find BMDs which may be some of your relatives.I'm related to a family named Hart.If you need any sites which may help I'll give my email addy to the web master. Baptisms Easington Christiana Helianor Hart 1863 Baptisms Easington Joseph William Hart 1865 Baptisms Easington Samuel George Hart 1869
susie
canada - Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 16:07:24 (PST)

Thanks Susie that would be them. Have learned that by 1871 jane had remarried to a william stevenson (or Stephenson)but have not been able to find any record of Samuel Georges death.Maybe he died at sea ? Still struggling to go any further back on his fathers side. The marriage cert. says he was George Hart chemist.
Gill Wilton
Holt, Norfolk - Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 16:05:41 (PST)

Brian Greenfingers, I can remember walking past Tot Henry's shop to get to the black road which was the way I used to walk to the SIS school in the 70s. The spot where the cosy stood now has a nursing home there, upwards from it flats have been built and downwards houses have been built.
Elizabeth Metcalfl
Seaham, - Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 16:03:55 (PST)

Hi great site. Left Seaham in '83, lived in Fern Crescent and Longnewton street Dawdon. Went to Cam Square and Seaham Comprehensive. Actually miss the place, especially the "Pit pond"!!
Mike Walker
Barrow-in-Furness Barrow-in-Furness , - Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 16:01:57 (PST)

Brian there are houses there now and a nursing home where the doctors used to be.do you remember the laundry next to cosy.
jim
sunderland, - Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 16:00:27 (PST)

Brian green fingers i remember the blackroad well i used nearly everyday to go to school also the clay pit next to it.I worked at brickfactory untill it closed down then went to knack pit.I think you have made a mistake as i thought elgys timber yard was at bottom of church street and the cosy was at bottom of mill inn bank opposite butcher street and knack canteen.So i cant see how you can cross through it to get to cosy.I lived at bottom end of malvern in neptune street but as a kid i lived in oxford street.
jim
sunderland, - Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 15:59:31 (PST)

This site is great, as an ex seahamer I love reading through all the messages - brings back memories!
Steven Gainsford
Melbourne, Australia - Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 15:58:12 (PST)

hi derek i rem you and your family think you had two brothers brian and albert if im right in thinking i also lived in that street with my mam dad and brother billy . i moved away in 1975 to marry an essex boy my dad passed away billy cross in 2002 but i still try and get back to seaham about once a year were you the oldest of the family take care sharon
sharon osborne nee cross
grays, essex - Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 15:55:50 (PST)

GILL Does this help? Marriages Jun 1862 (>99%) Hart Samuel George Easington 10a 454 Scan available - click to view Hood Jane Easington 10a 454
Susie
Canada - Monday, February 15, 2010 at 15:34:49 (PST)

what a great site ,something to put seaham on the map !!
diane nordstrom/griffiths
seaham, - Monday, February 15, 2010 at 15:26:56 (PST)

DOES ANYONE KNOW OF THE CURRENT WHEREABOUTS OF SALVATION ARMY CAPTAIN MICHEAL COOKE BORN IN SEAHAM HARBOUR TO MICHEAL AND JENNY COOKE (nee MADDISON )MICHEAL IS MY COUSIN AND I WOULD LIKE TO CATCH UP WITH HIM WHEN I MAKE A FAMILY VISIT IN MAY 2010
john maddison
perth, - Monday, February 15, 2010 at 15:25:11 (PST)

I remember the New Road being opened but dont recall the year shame its lost its original name!
Amanda Cochrane (Sowerby
Guernsey , - Monday, February 15, 2010 at 15:23:00 (PST)

Gary Purdy, yes New road and Graham Way. But do you remember the 'Black Road?' It ran paralell with the back of Malvern Cresent and the railway line and the Brickworks, this line ran up to the Knack. Elgy's timber yard, I think had lines to transport the pit-props around. I always cut across Elgys on the way to the Cosy at the weekends. I here the Cosy is pulled down, what's in it's place?
Brian Greenfingers
- Monday, February 15, 2010 at 15:20:46 (PST)

Hi to the Real Bill - have waited to hear from you. I emailed you ages ago and have now tried again. Trust you receive this one. Watching out for your reply - Sonja O.
Sonja Owen
Seaaham, - Monday, February 15, 2010 at 15:19:25 (PST)

Hi Does anyone remember me? I lived in Embleton Street Dawdon and went to Camden Square (left about 1965) and Northlea Grammar Tech (left about 1968 to go to university). Since then I have worked in Consett, Corby, Teesside, Alcester and Birmingham. I only seem to come back to Seaham for funerals these days.
Derek Close
Warwickshire - Monday, February 15, 2010 at 15:17:18 (PST)

I left Seaham in 1980 and would like anyone who remembers my family to contact me. I would like to put together a family tree on my fathers side of the family. He was Jonathan Douglas Robson (Know down Dawdon Pit as Mo). He married Anna Walus (Polish) and had 9 children. My father has my grandmothers maiden name of Robson, however my uncles and aunties are called Halliday. Anyone who can give me any information about my family would be very grateful. Thanks Mary
Mary Lucy Robson
Seaham, - Monday, February 15, 2010 at 15:15:31 (PST)

Does anyone remember a vessel, m/v Adams Beck in the area, in 1953? M.P.
M. Parfitt
Lindfield , west sussex - Monday, February 15, 2010 at 15:14:12 (PST)

JOHN BRENNAN the john robson you are lookin for died about 8 years ago he worked at dawdon after leaving the docks and worked with my old mate jack dunn and never realy got over when the pit closed and seamed to go down fast he is still missed by a lot of people denis gale
denis gale
st.neots , cambs - Monday, February 15, 2010 at 15:12:43 (PST)

Hi I wonder if anyone can help. I am reseaching my family tree and have got stuck at Seaham with my great great great grandparents who were both from there. My gt gt gt grandfather was samuel George Hart a merchant seaman and his wifes maiden name was Jane Hood. can anybody help. Thanks Gill
Gill Wilton
Holt, Norfolk - Saturday, February 06, 2010 at 16:16:12 (PST)

well, people can you remember when the new road (now called the graham way) opened? and who opened it? It was a competition at school and we even got the day off for it!! no snow days them days!
Gary Purdy
Seaham, - Saturday, February 06, 2010 at 16:14:30 (PST)

To Tony Sutherland. I was at High Colliery School with Barry and I remember him well. Time tends to dull many memories and after many years away from Seaham I have lost touch with a lot of people and forgotten many others but I will always remember your brother. Barry was a quiet lad but he became a real chirpy character when he got to know you. We played in the same school football team at High Colliery and Barry was fearless when he pulled on that green goalies jersey. You had to be a brave or mad to stand between the goal posts in those days, no special protection from referees and centre forwards wore boots with toe caps as hard as steel. In 1958 we played in 3 Cup finals and I believe one of the cups we won was renamed the Sutherland Cup after Barry’s tragic death. Is that cup still around I wonder. I remember there being a team photograph taken that year and Barry was definitely in that photo. If anyone out there has that photo I would love to have a copy.
Peter B
Middlewich , Cheshire - Saturday, February 06, 2010 at 16:13:02 (PST)

Tony Sutherland, Sorry, I had'nt heard about Barry in 1961. I was just getting demobed then after naional sevice in the Army. I only remembered the Five young people who drowned off the featherbed rock in the 1950s, one of the names was Charlton from Deanside.
Brian Greenfingers
- Saturday, February 06, 2010 at 16:11:13 (PST)

Anybody heard what happened to John Robson , he lived behind Pricess Road and had a cute sister. He must be about 70 , worked at the docks then went to Dawdon colliery. He was a mate of mine but we lost contact when I went to sea
John Brennan
hong kong, china sar - Saturday, February 06, 2010 at 16:09:53 (PST)

are there any families in the Seaham or Hetton Le Hole areas that have the surname Howe? my dad was born up there, his name was John Thomas Howe and his dad was Robert Howe, must be some one on this web site that knows any one. He was married at Chester Le Street, any info would be appreciated. cheers John Howe
John Howe
Canberra , ACT - Saturday, February 06, 2010 at 16:08:17 (PST)

My wifes mother married a Thomas William Turner b:1920 at 48 Longnewton St. They married in 1943 in Durham register office, he was living at 56 Bethune St at the time. They split up a few months later. Can anyone tell me anything about Thomas's later life, my wife Anne is his daughter to the above marriage.
Malcolm Grant
Doncaster , - Saturday, February 06, 2010 at 16:06:49 (PST)

Hi i am looking for joe newby worked as fisherman would be around 63-65 years old any help please
NICK GARBUTT
lowestoft , SUFFOLK - Saturday, February 06, 2010 at 16:05:29 (PST)

although i never went to camden square i do rememer pig eye,and the other teachers as i knew quite a lot of people at the school i also remember you sonja.
jim
sunderland, - Saturday, February 06, 2010 at 16:03:49 (PST)

toni i remember barry been a good goalkeeper and the schools playing for his trophy.As i recall he was a stocky lad and lived in malvern cres near prefabs.
jim
sunderland, - Saturday, February 06, 2010 at 16:02:49 (PST)

Hi Sonja Oliver. Still no E-Mail Sonja. Please try again. The Real Bill in SA
The Real Bill in SA
- Saturday, February 06, 2010 at 16:01:52 (PST)

i too remember ben brazier my condolenzes to his family
Tony Sutyerland
drogheda , louth ireland - Saturday, February 06, 2010 at 16:01:01 (PST)

Hi Sonja. The E-Mail has not dropped into my inbox yet. Do you remember Shirley Donaldson? She lives in Seaham. She lived next door to you at 45. Peter suggested I send her the pictures. As a last resort. She could get them to you. There could still be a problem though. We do not have your address. Don't put it on here Sonja. We'll think of a way to get them to you. Are you on Friends Reunited? You can drop me your E-Mail address on there. No one sees that but me. If you are you'll find me on the Warkworkworth Crescent list, Peter also. Thanks for enquiring about my health. I'm fine for a real old soul. All the Best.
The Real Bill in SA
- Saturday, February 06, 2010 at 15:59:51 (PST)

"JAP INIONS" HI EVERY BODY AT SEAHAM IT'S BEEN A LONG TIME SINCE I'VE BEEN ON OLD TURF.R THEY ANY OF MY OLD MATES STILL UP THERE JIMMY MAC,TONKA WATSON,OWEN MORGAN,GLEN JOHNSON,LONZIE MCOURT.
Jimmy Inions
mildenhall , sussex - Saturday, February 06, 2010 at 15:58:26 (PST)

Sorry folks but we are doing maintenance on the site over next couple of weeks. But keep your submissions coming in and they will be added when we return.
Ed Mason <Seaham Harbour Online>
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at 15:54:28 (PST)

ERIC LEIGHTON i noticed you went to sis from 1955 did you go with my best mate jackie dunn like you i have now retired and loving every minute i wished i had looked after the cash sooner then could have packed in sooner the building trade is not for the weak my brother doug the brickie is still on site at 72 the mind bogles the money he earned over the years he should have retired at 50 but she indoors loved to spend
denis gale
st.neots, cambs - Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at 15:01:11 (PST)

barry sutherland who drowned of featherbed rock 1961 i would love some stories from people who new barry as it will be 50years in 2011
tony sutherland
- Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at 14:59:37 (PST)

just thinking about my brother barry who drowned in 1961 of featherbed rock it will be 50yrs in 2011
tony sutherland
drogheda , louth - Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at 14:58:41 (PST)

Hi seaham, my name is Garry Williams, my mother harked from seaham (madien name Horth) and as kids we used to summer there with our grandparents. I have fond memories of those times (late 1970's) but my particular interest is to discover the address of Marie Sardag (formerly Jones)with whom i wish to correspond. I know she still lives in the area and has two children Amie and Tom. Any help would be appreciated.
Garry Williams
Brisbane , Qld Australia - Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at 14:57:15 (PST)

Message for THE REAL BILL. S.A. Have emailed you with the help of the Editor. Look forward to hearing from you. Trust you are keeping well.
Sonja Owen nee Oliver
Seaham, - Monday, January 18, 2010 at 15:23:29 (PST)

To John Spencer (alias Bamber Gasgoine )at Plymouth. You sister needs your help at doing the quiz at the Knack club. She only scored 11 out of thirty questions, so that means you are the brains in that family. So hurry back, to he Knack.
Eric Leighton
Seaham, - Monday, January 18, 2010 at 15:22:31 (PST)

ANSWER to David Atkinson query- Mr Ben Brazier was about 93 or 94 when he passed on, and he was cremated in the last week of December 2009.
Eric Leighton
Seaham, - Monday, January 18, 2010 at 15:21:33 (PST)

F.T.A.O John Man, Thanks for your reply will try to buy the book now that I know about it.Its nice to know that someone has noticed her after all these years,you are not dragging up the past its nice to talk about her. Best wishes thank you.
Irene Button
Seaham, - Monday, January 18, 2010 at 15:20:41 (PST)

Mr Brazier, former SIS Teacher, was 95 years of age when he died Dec.18.2009
Ray Briggs
Bridgewater , Nova Scotia - Monday, January 18, 2010 at 15:19:35 (PST)

No offense to anyone on here, but it is funny how new users like myself trust everything that they read hear. Just because youve been a member longer than me does not mean that you are smarter. Please heed all advice before taking :
jimmy williamson
Traverse City , USA - Monday, January 18, 2010 at 15:17:52 (PST)

David Gaut, there's a blast from the past ! I was in the same class as you...Mr.McHugh,Mr.Allen,Mr.Howard,Mr.& Mrs.Kilgour,Mrs.Cook etc.Myself, Vera Shenton then there was Ruth Hartburn,Margaret Bell,Brenda Fowell,Valerie Bowmaker,May Dodds,Brenda Leighton,Ian Kennedy,Raymond Jane,Ian Pattison,Kathleen Summerbell,Chester Keough etc.They've pulled the place down now but what memories eh ! I'm married with two daughters and four grandsons now.It will be our Ruby Wedding in November this year - where does the time go ? How are you doing over there in OZ, met any of "The Neighbours" or are you "Home & Away"? Nice to hear your name again David.
Vera Curry Shenton
Sunderland, - Monday, January 18, 2010 at 15:16:13 (PST)

CAMDENSQUARE oldie! Left in 1966. Mr and Mrs Kilgour were really great (or they were to me). I understand that Mr (Chris) Kilgour unfortunately came to an unfortunate end, must have been some 20+ years ago. There must be someone out there that remembers 'Pig Eye' who, incidentally, did NOT like me almost as much as I disliked him!
Sonja Owen nee Oliver
Seaham, - Monday, January 18, 2010 at 15:14:29 (PST)

Has one of my great uncle's Ronald Beardmore, Who's grandfather was my greatgandfather's brother, I would like to offer my deepest sympathy to his family. They obviously don't know me. but i know of them but not by name.
Paul Bennett
belper, Derbyshire - Monday, January 18, 2010 at 15:13:07 (PST)

just to say thank you for remembering the old lady
gordon kelly
belfast, - Monday, January 18, 2010 at 15:11:28 (PST)

looking ex r e m e pal geordie moreland from seaham harbour we where in malaya together
e. kelly
dumbarton, - Tuesday, January 12, 2010 at 15:10:08 (PST)

Anyone know how old Mr Brazier was when he passed away
David atkinson
Cole Harbour , Nova Scotia - Tuesday, January 12, 2010 at 15:08:45 (PST)

Hi to Ron Hudson, any relation to Hudson the bookies in Seaham. Would also like to wish my sister in law Maureen Rafferty(yes same name) from Murton a very happy birthday today. Maureen Rafferty Farnborough
Maureen Rafferty
Farnborough, - Tuesday, January 12, 2010 at 15:06:03 (PST)

Sorry to hear about Ron Brazier, although I didn't always appreciate him caning me! I recall Frank Masterman too, who especially chased me around the classroom swinging a cane because I refused to stand still and let him hit me!
Colin Hall
New Zealand - Tuesday, January 12, 2010 at 15:03:55 (PST)

Does anyone remember the Charlton family - George and Lil and their daughters Doreen and Olga who lived in Seaham Harbour in the 1930s and 1940s? I think Geoge worked on the docks and Olga was about 10 in 1940. She became a teacher and I think her married name was Wray.
gillian Picker
Wath-upon-Dearne, , Rotheram - Tuesday, January 12, 2010 at 15:02:12 (PST)

Many years ago I gave a list of folk I remembered from living in Seaham in the 40's and 50's. A few responded and maybe now it's time to try again , particularly after all the recent interesting correspondence about Seaham Modern School which I attended and the Co-op where I worked. Anybody remember me...Victor Brown....? Byron Terrace School, Modern School, Co-op. Seaham Park Cricket Team and of course The Cozy.
Victor Brown
Louth, LINCOLNSHIRE - Tuesday, January 12, 2010 at 15:00:36 (PST)

F.T.A.O Irene Button. I did not know your sister. I was visiting my mothers grave one day and saw your sisters head stone and thought to myself Wow she must have been such a free spirit to leave home and become an air hostess in 1967! It's such a great shame it eneded so tragically. I read a book not so long ago called "twighlight of the pistons" it was all about Air Ferry the firm your sister worked for and it even has a picture of her. It's an interesting read. Sorry to drag up the past.
John Man
Sunderland, - Tuesday, January 12, 2010 at 14:59:10 (PST)

Can anyone remember Brian Oliver? He attended Camden Square 1953/55. I think he went to work in Leicester.
Brian Greenfingers
- Tuesday, January 12, 2010 at 14:57:44 (PST)

I was sorry to learn that my old SIS Teacher Mr.Brazier passed away Dec. 20th.2009. I remember listening to his a stories of the time he spent as a POW of the Japanese. He was a good teacher and a remarkable survivor of WW2. I hope St.Peter welcomes him with open arms, after what he went through during the war he had earned it. My condolences to his family.
Ray Briggs
bridgewater , Nova Scotia - Friday, January 01, 2010 at 14:39:07 (PST)

Happy New Year and apologies to Ed for calling him Jim in my last note (too much Christmas spirit!!). I recall Miss Elliott at Seaham Modern who taught Art - for those of us taking 'shorthand' etc we had to go across to Camden Square and a Mr Blamires taught us there. He came to Peterlee College the same time as those of us in 63. He was quite a character. Remember Mrs Branthwaite these days she wouldn't be allowed to teach!!! Dorothy (Reay)
Dorothy Hawkins
Harrogate, - Friday, January 01, 2010 at 14:37:32 (PST)

I attended SMS between 71 and 76, most influential teachers being Mr Wilson / Miss Nimmo later his wife (geography, history & biology) he was ahead of his time, I've been lucky to visit or live in most of the places they taught us about. I'd love to hear from anyone who can tell me what they are doing now? Anyone else out there who remembers me please get in touch it would be great to catch up. All the very best to the people of Seaham Harbour, Happy New Year.
Mike Ward
Riyadh , Central Province Saudi Arabia - Friday, January 01, 2010 at 14:36:17 (PST)

thanx james for the names of those p.e. teachers happy new year to you and your family and all in seaham and the guestbook
david gaut
sydney, - Friday, January 01, 2010 at 14:34:21 (PST)

I was at SMS between 61 and 66 and remember Ben Brazier well. He was OK but he once told the class to be silent and I made the mistake of saying "OK" - two strokes one on each hand - my own fault! I remember Bobby (Snecker)Walton who tried to teach us science but he didn't have a lot of patience with those of us who had more artistic talents. I was later in a mixed class and remember Mrs Norman from the girls school who taught us English - she wandered around one afternoon with her skirt tucked in her knickers and no one told her! Does anyone remember the dance classes when the boys met up with the girls on Friday afternoons? Never did use the square tango in real life. There was a game played by the boys at break called mounty kitty which I know would be banned nowadays for Health and Safety reasons!!!! Sad isn't it?
John Warburton
Leyton, North Yorkshore - Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at 16:17:49 (PST)

Many thanks to Sadie & Ed Mason for another successful year of the Guestbook. They don't half work to make this successful and deserve any plaudits they receive. May I add my seaons greetings to Sadie & Ed for Xmas and wish you both all the best for the new year. Richard Thorpe
Richard Thorpe
Seaham, - Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at 16:15:52 (PST)

I have found a photograph of Captain and Mrs Howard and baby brian from the Citadel in Seaham Harbour. If you knew these people then i am sure you would know of my Fathers family. The Bell family.They were very good friends of Esther Bell my Grandmother. I have photographs of the many outings the army had. Please if anyone knew the family please get in touch. Thank you. Jenny Holland
Jenny Holland
Coalville, Leicestershire - Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at 16:14:54 (PST)

Does anyone have any information about my grandfather, James Taylor who lived at Back North Railway street, Seaham Harbour, and who married Hannah Elizabeth Freak, Adolphus Street, on Christmas Day, 1913? Many thanks in advance. Paul Taylor
Paul Taylor
Rennes, France - Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at 16:13:30 (PST)

To all readers,subscribers, Brian G. for keeping us in wonderful anecodates on Guestbook and especially Sadie & Jim for keeping this going all the very best for a Happy, Peaceful and Prosperous New Year. Dorothy Hawkins (Reay)
Dorothy Hawkins
Harrogate, - Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at 16:12:17 (PST)

Hi people of Seaham. I am trying to pice together some famuly history. The family name is Bell. My dad Matthew was born in 1926 to George and Esther. He had brothers Arthur, George and sisters Dora who went into service as a nurse. Arthur was killed in the war. Then there was Evelyn and Jenny. My dad and Jenny was the youngest and was much younger than the others. He played the trumpet in the Salvation Army band and my Grandma was a sister in the Salvation Army. Their last known addrss was California Street but did live in School Street. It would be great if anyone has any history of the Salvation Army as i have many photographs of officers and the outings they all went on. I would love to hear from anyone who knew the family. Jenny Holland.
Jenny Holland
COALVILLE , LEICESTERSHIRE - Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at 16:09:39 (PST)

hope every one had a great xmas. some more teachers names i rem were mr newby french teacher mr walton science teacher mr cambell geography i think the head teacher was called miss collage i left seaham modern school in 1975 would love to hear from anyone out there who left about the same time as me i would also like to wish everyone a happy new year
sharon osborn ne cross
grays, essex - Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at 16:07:52 (PST)

A few more SMS teachers from 1955/60 were Mrs Newton[geography] Mrs Branthwaite Miss Gillespie Miss Childs Miss Ogilvy[science] Miss Lennard[domestic science] Mrs Norman [english] Mr Sheringham Mr Jacques [french]
Isabel [Bleasdale] Adams
mansfield, Notts - Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at 16:01:33 (PST)

A very Happy Christmas to all the folk of Seaham.I came home a couple of weeks ago and it's always a great Pleasure to come back I always am amazed at the changes and love catching up on the news.I always have a browse on the Guestbook and being an ex St Cuthberts lad then on to st Jo's and the prison at Peterlee.My favourtie teacher of all was Miss Needham what a lovely lady she was i have very happy memeories of St Cuthberts,I know our class was one of the last to use the old school up at Eastlea again happy memories but those outside Netties wern't half cold again a very Happy Christmas Seaham. Simon Hudson
Simon Hudson
Llandudno , Conwy - Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at 15:59:57 (PST)

Its funny that we have been talking on the guestbook about the teachers at Seaham Modern School. I have just read the Sunderland Echo and the Death of of the teacher Mr Brazer is in, and he died on on the 20th of December this year.What a nice person he was, and my feelings go out to his family, and I'm sure all his ex-pupils will think the same. R.I.P
ERIC LEIGHTON
Seaham, - Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at 15:58:08 (PST)

We hope everyone had a happy and peaceful Christmas and we wish you all a happy and healthy New Year.
Ed & Sadie Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at 15:04:57 (PST)

to Brian Greenfingers, thanks for the card and the best wishes and we wish you the same. To all guestbookers we wish you a very merry christmas
Sadie and Eddie Mason
- Thursday, December 24, 2009 at 13:48:26 (PST)

hi i would just like to say a big merry xmas to all people in seaham and also people on the guest book who have left seaham but keep in touch on this guest book also a big thank you to the people who do the guest book as it is great to hear about seaham in years gone by sharon
sharon osborne
grays, essex - Thursday, December 24, 2009 at 13:45:54 (PST)

Ben Brazier was my teacher and an abolute B...! He had been in WW2 and prisoner to the Japs. I think it screwed him up as being a prisoner of the Japs screwed up many people. Is he still alive I wonder? I know Mr.Hood joined the Church and become a Vivar, Hood was a RAF flyer during the war. Mr. Parkinson caught Malaria in the Far East and it still returned to him at times.
B Burton
- Thursday, December 24, 2009 at 13:44:44 (PST)

Mr & Mrs Kilgour were the P.E. teachers Davie.
James Robinson
taupo , bop nz - Thursday, December 24, 2009 at 13:43:09 (PST)

For the attention of John Man. I do know the person Catherine Dunn very well. She was my sister,and yes they are painful and there is never a day goes by that I dont think of her even though I was only nine. It is one of those things that I will always remember, and it would be nice to know how you knew her.
Irene Button
Murton, - Thursday, December 24, 2009 at 13:41:18 (PST)