Here then is our tribute to just some of the town’s acclaimed sons and daughters. It does not proclaim to be the definitive guide – there would be just too many names to cram in – and is merely a flavour of what we have had to offer the worlds of sport, music, broadcasting, fashion, film and beyond.
5. Stuart Drummond
Born in 1973, Drummond became Hartlepool's first directly-elected Mayor after campaigning in his then H'Angus the Monkey football mascot role. He hung the suit up after his victory and triumphed at two subsequent elections before the position was abolished. Photo: Owen Humphreys
6. Teddy Gardner
British and European flyweight champion boxer who entertained Prime Minister Harold Macmillan in his later role as landlord of the Victoria Hotel, in West Hartlepool. He died in his mid 50s in 1977. Photo: YPN
7. Janick Gers
Born in 1957, the guitarist was part of Hartlepool heavy metal band White Spirit before joining Gillan and later rock legends Iron Maiden. As our picture shows, Gers, centre, still finds time to stand on the terraces watching his beloved Hartlepool United. Photo: FRANK REID
8. Michael Gough
Born in Hartlepool in 1979, the former Durham county cricketer is member of the Elite Panel of ICC Umpires and oversaw matches in the last two Cricket World Cups. Photo: FRANK REID