Like nearby Jarrow and Hebburn , Shipbuilding and secondly mining was the main occupation in the area. The 1930,s will always be known for the massive cuts made in the areas shipbuilding workforce. In 1930 , The National Shipbuilders Security Ltd was set up for the purpose of streamlining shipbuilding on a national basis.
Shipbuilders Osbourne Grahams would close in 1931. Close behind it was Robert Thompsons in Southwick with Grays Egis across the river at Pallion in 1938. During 1931 only seven ships were built and even less in 1932. Poor diet and malnutrition were common in the 30,s and mortality figures were. In 1935 death from tuberculosis was said to be twice the national average. Together with pneumonia, whooping cough, mumps, scarlet fever and chicken pox , people were prone to serious ailments .
Shipbuilders Osbourne Grahams would close in 1931. Close behind it was Robert Thompsons in Southwick with Grays Egis across the river at Pallion in 1938. During 1931 only seven ships were built and even less in 1932. Poor diet and malnutrition were common in the 30,s and mortality figures were. In 1935 death from tuberculosis was said to be twice the national average. Together with pneumonia, whooping cough, mumps, scarlet fever and chicken pox , people were prone to serious ailments .
