But while we look back on 2003, who can remember what life was like in Hartlepool?
Here are some reminders from the Hartlepool Mail archives and we hope they bring back happy memories.
There’s a beer festival launch, Pools players celebrating a victory, a reminder of the 2003 Greatham Feast, and new starters pictured on their first day at primary school.
So why not take a look and see how many of these scenes you remember.
1. Getting ready for a day in school
Meet the Eldon Grove Primary School new starters in 2003. Photo: TC
2. A toast to the beer festival
The launch of the King John's Tavern beer festival in 2003. Did you get along? Photo: DW
3. A batty reminder
These houses in Easington were in the news in 2003 because they had bats in them. But who can tell us more about the story? Photo: DP
4. Strongest of them all
Strongman Eddy Ellwood was pictured with his trophy from the 2003 England's Strongest Man competition. Photo: WOOD