As I said when I was working in Sunderland on the Employment Training scheme I started to do PR photo jobs as my interest in press photography grew.

I quite enjoyed this assignment which publicised the various areas the organisation covered. I did like this shot and it was also published – this time in a daily newspaper.

For the record it made it into my portfolio which got me onto the press photography course in Sheffield 30 years ago.

I am not sure who wrote the press release but I would like to think I had some input. However the resulting article would have been written by the reporter at the Sunderland Echo.

OUTDOOR fun at bargain prices is on offer from a Sunderland youth charity – but you don’t have to be young to try it.

Training group Sunderland YMCA Alliance Ltd is offering a range of adventure holidays for a mere £50 to £75.

The events, which start on July 24, include a sea kayak trip to the Scottish Coast, a Canadian canoe five-day visit to Loch Lomond, and introductory courses on sailing, climbing, and watersports.

The price includes instruction, transport, equipment, and specialist clothing and a fully qualified instructor will lead every course. All anyone needs to take is personal clothing and food.

The scheme will also offer further experience for Employment Training (ET) staff who will help take the courses.

Sunderland Alliance manager Richard Graham said: “You don’t even have to be young to take part. I’ve taken retired groups on Canadian canoes and it’s a very nice way to travel.

“The idea of the offer is to promote our outdoor activities and there’s no experience needed. It’s a way of showing ET is helping Sunderland and Sunderland is helping ET.”

From the Sunderland Echo in June 1989.