Seemed to have been reflecting on past glories and in particular my time at Newcastle College of Arts & Technology. In the late 1970's, it's home was in Bath Lane between the brewery and Westgate Road

A real piece of work; the building was impressive, quirky, tall and forever under threat of demolition in the time that I was there. One impressive room had a door 2/3 of the way up the wall which suggested a missing storey from years gone by.

The outbuildings were a collection of pregnant sheds and remnants from the old Rutherford college of which I know nothing about.

The canteen was always a hive of activity and a welcome recharge when you'd hit a wall in a project you were busy with (or just plain skivving) Rose provided the best burgers and the sort of informality that went down well with everyone.

At the back of the canteen was housed a table tennis table & a jukebox in the early years and its for this reason that this blog occurs. Very contemporary, playing the hits & album tracks of todays stars and an ice breaker for new students huddled round with a plastic cup of coffee (no grand latte's here me lad)

There was always music and the sort of safe secure environment that made me want to stay there forever, however unrealistic

Friendships were forged, relationships blossomed and people moved on.....

Some, sadly, are no longer with us but if they had half the fondness I have for the old building then at least they had some fun.

Anyway, back to the music and a collection of tracks I've put together that recall my time there. Many are chosen from the listing on that old jukebox in late 76, I believe, but a lot are from places and people who still hold a place in my heart. Hope you enjoy.

Track listing : Haittian Divorce - Steely Dan, Take me I'm your's - Squeeze, Kite - Kate Bush,
Wake up & make love with me - Ian Dury, Swingtown - Steve Miller Band,
If you leave me now - Chicago, Baker St - Gerry Rafferty, Jane - Jefferson Starship,
Walking on the Moon - Police, Picture This - Blondie, Ca plane pour moi - Plastic Bertrand
Airport - The Motors, Jealous Guy - Bryan Ferry, Life's been good - Joe Walsh
Maid in Heaven - Be Bop Deluxe, Tragedy - Bee Gees, Over You - Roxy Music
Spanish Dancer - Steve Winwood, Never let her slip away - Andrew Gold