The North East as it was in the 1960s
THE 1960s is widely regarded as one of the most exciting periods in our history - and now a new book recalls the memorable events in our region during that decade.
North East Life in the 1960s is the latest in a series by Newcastle authors, Andrew Clark and Sharyn Taylor, that tells the story of our area from the 1930s to the 1980s.
Andrew Clark said: “We are thankful for the many people who have shared their memories of 1960s fashion, music, work, schooldays, entertainment, holidays and jazz bands.
“Who can forget their first job at 15, straight from school and the excitement of your first pay packet – although most of the money probably went to your mam. Holidays were spent at the local seaside resorts such as Tynemouth and Whitley Bay, or if you were lucky a week at Butlins in Filey.
“The music scene had everything from Beatlemania to local lads in The Animals achieving worldwide success with their single The House of The Rising Sun.
“The night scene was vibrant with clubs such as the La Strada in South Shields and the La Dolce Vita in Newcastle where Tom Jones, at the height of his fame, appeared in 1966.
“Also in 1966 there was the greatest day in English football when England won the World Cup at Wembley and had in the team Bobby and Jack Charlton from Ashington.”
The authors recall the time when Beatlemania came to Newcastle in October 1963 and police were needed to control the crowds who queued for two days for tickets to a concert at the City Hall. Such was the demand to see The Beatles, the police issued a warning that only ticket-holders would be allowed near the City Hall the night of the performance on November 23, 1963.
The harsh winter of 1962 and 63 is still remembered by many. On January 2 a blizzard began that went on for three days and the country was described as ‘Iceberg Britain’.
A week later gale force winds created giant snow drifts, in some places up to 15 feet high.
People endured freezing nights and woke up to days where it snowed for several hours. January 22 was the coldest day of the winter and there were reports of anti-freeze in cars freezing up. Thankfully, the first week of March saw the beginning of a thaw and what was known as ‘The Big Freeze’ was over.
A highlight for football fans was Newcastle United’s memorable success in 1969 when they won the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup by beating Ujpest Dozsa from Hungary in a two-legged final. In the previous round United were drawn against Glasgow Rangers in what would become an infamous night at St James’ Park when Scottish fans rioted. The game was eventually completed and the 2-0 victory saw Newcastle go into the final.
North East Life in the 1960s is on sale at The Back Page in Newcastle and the Metrocentre; Newcastle Library; St Mary’s Heritage Centre, Gateshead; Handpicked in the MetroCentre and from www. summerhillbooks.co.uk