And here are 9 reminders of Hartlepool and East Durham doing just that with stars of the stage, screen and sporting field.
Were you pictured having your photo taken with one of these Sunderland heroes or with an England rugby star?
Maybe it is you in the photo with Eurovision winners Brotherhood of Man. We have all this and more so take a look and see if you can spot someone you know.
1. Jason pays a visit
England star Jason Leonard signs autographs during his visit to West Hartlepool Rugby Club in 2015. Were you there? Photo: David James Wood
2. Eurovision champions
Eurovision Song Contest winners Brotherhood of Man dropped in to Hartlepool Central Library to sign autographs for fans ahead of their Town Hall Theatre show in 2012. Photo: TY
3. Monty meets his fans
Former Sunderland AFC goalkeeper, and 1973 FA Cup winning legend Jim Montgomery, officially opened the new under-2s unit at Owton Manor Primary School in 2013. He signed autographs and chatted to fans. Photo: TY
4. A wonderful moment for Mollie-Mae
Michael Rice signs an autograph for St Aidan's Primary School pupil Mollie-Mae Jukes in 2018. Photo: Frank Reid