Life in Sunderland in 1944: What you could buy on D-Day - and what was off limits

By Chris Cordner

Published 10th May 2024, 10:02 BST

From first-class spectacles to laxative chewing gum

Imagine what life must have been like in Sunderland 80 years ago.

As D-Day approached, Wearsiders were facing up to another day of rationing and news from the battlefields.

Here’s a look at the things you could still buy in Sunderland in 1944 and one which was off limits until the war ended.

And there were some products you were urged to return to get a few pennies back on the empties.

Intrigued? Have a look at these adverts from the Echo.

Sunderland in 1944. This is what was available - and what was on hold until the war was over.

1. Covering your every need

Sunderland in 1944. This is what was available - and what was on hold until the war was over.

Young's Batteries were designed for electric and motor vehicles.

2. Powerful in 1944

Young's Batteries were designed for electric and motor vehicles.

Phillips rubber soles and heels were said to be well worth the price.

3. Sole service

Phillips rubber soles and heels were said to be well worth the price.

Sunderland people were being urged to send back their used Domestos bottles and get two pence off each one in 1944, because bottles were rare commodities in the war.

4. Get a refund as you clean

Sunderland people were being urged to send back their used Domestos bottles and get two pence off each one in 1944, because bottles were rare commodities in the war.

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