pillars of hercules
Striker
Its a bit of a cliché but we often don't appreciate the things right in front of us.I have noticed over the years that the slagging off can be local as well. A number of local people don't seem to like Sunderland much.
Having returned to the city God knows how many times over the years and long seen it as a home away from home I sometimes wonder if those being negative about the city don't see what you all have just outside your front door.
Each time am over I often find myself sitting on one of the benches by the seafront puffing my dear ol' pipey. Some of the locals walking their dogs even remember me from previous visits which is very heart-warming and their smiles and kind words when they stop and have a chat about what has happened since last time put the NE folk in a very good light.
But I also get the slightly confused look from some when they ask me why am there and I tell them am on holiday. To some locals it seem baffling why anyone would come to Sunderland for a fortnight as a tourist. Especially from abroad.
But England is beautiful. Sunderland and the NE even more so. I wouldn't return again and again if I didn't love it so much. Back over in two weeks time and I cannot wait.