In our fast-paced lives, it can be hard to stop and appreciate all the great things about the places where we live. Celebrations bring people together, make us feel a part of something bigger, and give us a real sense of community. In Celebrating Sunderland author Marie Gardiner reveals the people, places, achievements, and events of this great city. We look from dizzying heights at the Sunderland International Airshow after its humble beginnings at Sunderland Airport, to the town – and later, city – putting on its best for the parties and parades through its streets. Discover how one local architect changed lives and created a lasting legacy after a heart-warming encounter with a homeless boy. Relive past glories in the form of FA Cup wins, feats of derring-do, and awards for valour. Join us as we put up the bunting, string the lights, and dress to impress for Celebrating Sunderland. Illustrated throughout, this immensely engaging book will appeal to local people, visitors and all those with connections to the city. It will evoke many memories, be a source of civic pride and provide a valuable contribution to local history.

'Illustrated throughout, this immensely engaging book will appeal to local people, visitors and all those with connections to the city. It will evoke many memories, be a source of civic pride and provide a valuable contribution to local history.' * Sunderland Global Media *

Marie Gardiner is a writer and photographer from Sunderland, now living in County Durham. After earning her degree in film and media, she worked as a broadcaster for a number of years, before starting a media company with her partner, which under the banner of Lonely Tower Film & Media, produces historical documentaries.