The Wearside Field Club was formed in 1974 when the town of Sunderland was included in the government's "Experiment in Leisure". A small number of towns were asked to find out what people wanted to do in their leisure time. At that time a shorter working week was forecast which would result in more time for leisure activities.
In Sunderland many ideas were mooted, including: The Outdoor Activities Association which had a pool of outdoor equipment for loan including the use of two self-drive mini buses; Herrington Burn Outdoor Centre at Ewart in Northumberland; Traveling Play Activities contained in a double decker bus to visit schools during holiday times etc.
Many ideas were put forward including the Amateur Academics Association which later changed its name to The Wearside Field Club. The club celebrates its 50th year in 2024 and according to former councillor Baxter, who was leader of the initiative in 1974, it is the only one of the experiments which is still functioning.
The Clubs mission statement reads: To promote interest in and enjoyment of the national heritage and environment. It pursues this aim by providing for its membership an annual programme of talks, walks and visits.
In Sunderland many ideas were mooted, including: The Outdoor Activities Association which had a pool of outdoor equipment for loan including the use of two self-drive mini buses; Herrington Burn Outdoor Centre at Ewart in Northumberland; Traveling Play Activities contained in a double decker bus to visit schools during holiday times etc.
Many ideas were put forward including the Amateur Academics Association which later changed its name to The Wearside Field Club. The club celebrates its 50th year in 2024 and according to former councillor Baxter, who was leader of the initiative in 1974, it is the only one of the experiments which is still functioning.
The Clubs mission statement reads: To promote interest in and enjoyment of the national heritage and environment. It pursues this aim by providing for its membership an annual programme of talks, walks and visits.
