This is a hard-hitting account of growing up in Newcastles West End during the uncertain years of the First World War & the Depression. Samuel Herbert had to grow up fast when his mother moved the family to a cockroach-infested tenement in Elswick while his Dad
- a miner
- was away fighting on the front line. Along with the shared netties & the terrible living conditions Samuel learned how to deal with the bullies & the gangs until he grew as tough as they were. His fight to get out of this poverty-stricken existence was always hindered by something & he continuously ended up back in that same sorrowful place called The Avenue. Along with the tragedy however came lots of laughs & Samuels unique account demonstrates the humour courage & indomitable spirit of the local population. Prepare to be amused & entertained surprised & moved by these stories which vividly capture the heart & heritage of this former mining community.