Christmas presents North East kids wanted through the years

From classic dolls to board games and even a hoop and stick, people across the region took to social media following a nostalgic post about their childhood wish lists.

Millennium Falcon
Ashlynne Salaene Rutter said: “Depends on the year, but I believe a Millennium Falcon, which I got from Thornleys.”

Models and toys of the Star Wars ship belonging to Han Solo shot to popularity in the late 1970s after the release of the first movie of the sci-fi franchise.

Mr Frosty
Vik Black said: “I always wanted a Mr Frosty lol.”

The 1980s plastic snowman used to crush ice and make slush-based flavoured drinks was a big hit in most decades of the late 20th century and even had a resurgence in recent times.

Tippy Tumbles
Margaret Taylor remembers asking for a Tippy Tumbles doll.

The doll was noted for her ability to tumble over ‘all by herself’, as the box of the toy said. The doll would also do handstands and flip onto her back.

Hoop and Stick
A more traditional toy, the hoop and stick, was remembered by as being top of the list in the 1950s by one Echo reader.

Tiny Tears
The Tiny Tears doll was a favourite.

Sandra Yirik recalled: “Tiny tears and Timmy, and a few years later Sindy and Barbie,” while others, including Monica McCartney, Joany Taylorson, and Wendy Fisher, also fondly mentioned Tiny Tears.

The doll is still in demand with collectors, with an eBay listing for the popular present showing an asking price of upwards of £75 for a 1973 version of Tiny Tears.

Board Games and Model Toys
Board games like Snakes & Ladders and Mouse Trap were also in demand, with Judith Letchford and Michaela Garvey.

The cage descends, and traps a rodent and cheese. It’s Mouse Trap! Picture: ARCHANT (Image: Archant)

Sindy and Barbie Dolls
Many also wanted dolls like Sindy and Barbie, with Beverley Wootton stating she wished for a “Sindy doll with her car.”

Sindy, a rival to Barbie, was also a popular toy among residents in the North East.

Prototypes from the personal collection of Bob Brechin, renowned designer of Action Man and Action (Image: Vectis Auctions)

Action Man and Train Sets
For some, boys’ toys like Action Man and Hornby train sets marked the height of festive hopes. Phil Spencer said, “Showing my age. Action man,” and Gary Jefferson chose “Hornby train.”

The mix of comments proves that, whether simple or high-tech, these childhood treasures have created lasting memories for people in the North East.