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Joe Chucks
Joe Chucks a well-known character in the twenties lived in Athol Street.
He was a sawdust man. He collected sawdust from the sawmill and supplied local butchers shops and pubs.
At the annual carnival he entertained the crowds with his antics on the slippery pole. He regularly took part in the annual road race in Dunston when he again entertained the crowds. On these occasions he wore shorts and had his head shaved and painted like an Easter Egg. He usually came in last, which was not surprising as he had frequent stops for liquid refreshments. One year he won the race, but it was said that he took a short cut through the Park!
He also played football. Perhaps you have a story to tell about his exploits during this activity!
Joe had a friend called Teddy Whipps. Teddy had a wooden leg, which he sometimes removed and used as an offensive weapon!