A view of Smiths Dock at North Shields, sent to me by Kevin Blair. No date on the photo so not sure whether it might actually have been A&P at this stage.

Well, present are LLOYDSMAN (1971-1980) and in drydock PHOTINIA (1961-1978).

Tempted to go for early 70's as there is not sign of our "New" Depot at Minton Lane by the gas holder.

RFA Tidepool, in steam, is inboard of Lloydsman well illustrating how large a tug she was. Maybe she is involved with the rig on the left.

Tidepool A76 and sister Tidespring A75 both out of Hawthorn Leslie, were the first RFA's designed to carry a helicopter, Wessex, complete with 2 hangars and ample flight deck. The vertrep, vertical replenishment, now became a common practice.

Is the Oil Rig the "Staflo"? She did suffer with Ballast Valve malfunctioning which is somewhat dangerous on a semi submersible.

TIDEPOOL was on the Tyne four times during the 70's.
Feb/March 1970.
July/August 1975
June 1976
December 1979.

PHOTINIA was sold in 1978 so that rules out December 1979.
LLOYDSMAN was named in 1971 so that rules out Feb/March 1970.

Soooooo its either July/August 1975 or June 1976.

PS its the Blyth Dredger CROFTON looking very small in DD.