It was announced that the town was to be a host port for the Tall Ships Races in 2023 after memorably holding the event back in 2010.
A new freeport was given the green light by the Government and was said to result in a “tsunami of jobs”.
And more of us got jabbed as the Covid vaccine roll-out continued.
Elsewhere on the political front, MP Mike Hill dramatically quit.
There were lots more stories making the headlines. Scroll down to see how many you remember.
5. Search for a new MP
Hartlepool Labour MP Mike Hill suddenly resigned after almost six years sparking a by-election in May. Picture by FRANK REID Photo: Frank Reid
6. New beers music to the ears
Hartlepool's Crafty Monkey Brewing Company looked to favourite bands and songs for the names of a number of its new beers. Photo: Stu Norton
7. A happy ending
Carrie-Anne Osborne, 32, gave birth to daughter Storm Osborne-Duncan while she was in a coma fighting Covid. Photo: Carrie-Anne Osborne
8. A cold night on the streets
Members and supporters of Positive Helpful Outcomes North East spent a night sleeping under the old Hartlepool law courts to raise awareness of homelessness. Photo: Frank Reid