Here are the words and music to a traditional song about the Shiremoor Treat for you to have a singalong!
It was started by a small band of kind-hearted men
To give all the local schoolchildren a treat.
Now it’s still going strong after 75 years
This must be a truly remarkable feat.
We had Mr Niven who started it off
In 1907 behind the Blue Bell
And then Albert Sanderson and Billy Nicholson too
We remember Mr Moore and Jimmy Middleton as well.
The wages were small and the money was scarce
The villagers they had a poor standard of living
But a penny collection round the doors every week
Came from kind hearts that were all full of giving.
Each year this great day gives immeasurable joy
And if this was multiplied 75 times
That's what we're indebted to these faithful few
Who had the foresight to read all of the signs.
Ever since this day started it's been a success
And the efforts we've made have all been worthwhile.
Today we carry on what is now a tradition
In the well-known Northumbrian locality style.
The cost of this day is now growing each year
But with your kind help our expenses we'll meet
To reach a centenary it is now our aim
With the Shiremoor and District Children's Treat.