Mulgrave Baths

Hi - my great grandfather Joseph Scurfield used to be the manager of the Old Baths on Mulgrave Terrace the beginning of the 1900s where they all lived, one of his sons then became manager of the New Baths at Shipcote

I was born on Hector street near Mulgrave baths in 1960. My mother Shelia Blenkinsop swam for St Josepth school at Mulgrave baths, and was a noted great swimmer. I myself and my brothers and sisters used to swim at Mulgrave baths. Our School All Saints also took us for swimming lessons. My Brother David and myself and our mates from Chandless estate went to Mulgrave almost every week. We used to buy "Bettys Crips" in the little shop on the stairs. I went from aged 5 in 1965, and the last time I swam there was around 1974 or 75? That was when Mulgrave closed. In 1978-79 I was helping a mate do a removal, from Barns close flats. We parked near the Baths, and I was so sad to see it being demolished? This was either 1978, or early 79. Im not sure, but definitely around then? Like many other fine building, these bath were destroyed. Iv saw similar baths from other towns, that were preserved? How tragic these baths were not saved.

Keith Mc Farlane. Gateshead.