Sweet Dreams: 1980s Newcastle

Welcome to 1980s Newcastle. The city had undergone great change during the previous two decades and, despite the 'winter of discontent' that ended the 1970s, many looked towards the 1980s with hope and optimism. Sweet Dreams indeed! Looking back, for many in the North East, the 1980s evoke central government's divisive policies and the uncertainty they brought, the destruction of traditional industries of the area such as mining and shipbuilding, and the growth of the service sector. By 1989 the city had begun to redefine itself, even to market itself, and to give the banks of the Tyne a whole new purpose. And Newcastle still knew how to party with its thriving club scene. The 'Boat', The Tube and the Riverside vividly fix the decade for many contributors. Others remember street parties, alternative shopping, the novelty of the Metro rapid transit system that opened with the decade, Kevin Keegan's inspirational goals, mind-blowing rock concerts at the City Hall, the Great North Run, and the Tall Ships. They are all here, along with much more. This book shows an energetic Newcastle in full colour, no longer black and white - except for the Magpies! It still seems very close but slightly strange.