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Only one move in 81 years

Robert Beaney has just moved house, on 5th July, from 5th Street in Horden, to St Mary’s Court, Horden. Its about 170 yards, but it has taken him just under 81 years!

Mr Beaney, who is 81 years old in September, has never moved house before. He was born in number 50, 5th Street and lived there until he was 81 years and 9 months old. He has seen many changes in that time and he vividly remembers the times spent in the air raid shelter in the yard at number 50 during the Second World War.

During his working life too, he saw massive change. He started out at 14 as a wages clerk in Horden Colliery offices sitting on a high chair, helping to write out 4,000 wage slips by hand and he went on to end his career in the finance section of the Coal Board HQ at Team Valley Trading Estate.

Robert’s lasting memory is the sense of community in the old pit houses when everybody knew each other’s names. He laments the passing of those days but since he has moved into his new home, he says, “Its like going back in time”. He said, “I have got a draw full of welcome cards from my new neighbours and despite the wonderful memories of 5th Street, I feel really happy here, surrounded by good neighbours and friends. I couldn’t wish for better”.