New book shares fascinating stories of South Bank and Teesside life in early twentieth century

A new book shares fascinating stories of life in South Bank and Teesside in the early twentieth century.

Tales of the people, places and events growing up in the area are shared in the fascinating new book The Girl in the Green Blouse: A South Bank Story by Kay Andrews. The book draws on the letters of Mabel Briggs - born in South Bank near Middlesbrough in 1900 and passed away aged 98 - which document in the manufacturing town.

The letters provide a unique insight into the local community and the major changes experienced in the early decades of the twentieth century as experienced by a young woman in South Bank. Collated by Mabel’s granddaughter Kay Andrews, the book focuses chiefly on everyday life in and around South Bank from the 1900s until the late 1930s as recollected in the Mabel's letters, penned in the 1980s and 1990s.

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The book begins with stories of childhood in South Bank, visits to the now demolished ormesby -and-berwick-hills>North Ormesby Hospital, early working life and fascinating memories of the area during the First World War that brought local ‘alien’ internments, a Zeppelin shot down over Hartlepool, the tragedy of those killed in action and armistice celebrations at the end of conflict.

Into the interwar years, the industrial scene around South Bank and Grangetown, the increase in the local population and difficulties experiences amidst depression are described in detail. Famous local names such as Bolckow Vaughan, Dorman Long, Eckert’s, Newbould’s and Smith’s Dock all feature alongside recollections of working life in local industries, memories of transport from yesteryear – including the trackless transport system – church, entertainment and sporting life, and the area’s close-knit, community spirit.

Dozens of photographs from across the decades also feature including snapshots of celebrations in South Bank marking the Coronation of Edward VII, school life at Cromwell Road and St Peter’s Schools and Smith’s Dock Ladies’ football team including celebrated Grangetown footballer Winnie McKenna.

The book includes a commentary from Kay providing further insight into the history of the companies, people and incidents described in the book. Author Kay said: "My grandmother often spoke about her life growing up in South Bank, so I asked her to write down some of her earliest memories and said that one day I would write a book featuring them. She had always wanted to be a journalist and was pleased to know that a small part of social history would be recorded.

"I'm delighted to finally see the book in print, as it describes a South Bank which has now all but disappeared. I hope the book helps bring the period back to life by taking readers back in time. South Bank was a strong and vibrant community and that spirit still lives on, even if some of the places and the people mentioned are no more.

"I hope some readers might recognise some of the characters or places as being part of their own family history." The book is now available to buy at www.heritageunlocked.com/shop.

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