A couple of years ago I was corresponding with Pat Allinson about Sunderland MP 1922-1929 Sir Luke Thompson. If you're still interested I have some more data, but your old e-mail seems to be inactive ... please get back in touch. Many thanks Grant White Born Sunderland, now living London, England Always on the lookout for the major shipbuilding families of Wearside.

Dear Grant, Noticing your interest in major Shipbuilding families, I was wondering if you had heard of James Allison's yard on Monkwearmouth Shore. It lasted from 1818 until 1833 and one of the THOMPSONS (Robert 1797-1860) did his apprenticeship there. James Allison was Mayor of Sunderland twice and, whilst I wouldn't call him exactly "major", you can get a "bead" on his/my family at http://members.cox.net/ghgraham/jamesallison.html .Have you any knowledge of this family? Likewise, noting your interest in Sunderland MP's, I am trying to trace the origins of Sir Edward Temperley GOURLEY (1826-1902), who was an MP for Sunderland for 32 years (1868-1900). Rumour has it that the Gourleys came from Fife, but despite his knighthood and apparent renown, I've never been able to get behind Sir Edward's father, who was John Young Gourley, 1801-1867, a shipowner who lived in St Bede's Terrace. Any ideas you may have on how I could get further would be valued. Thanks in advance and Happy New Year! Clifford Allison. _________________________ Grant White Born Sunderland, now living London, England Always on the lookout for the major shipbuilding families of Wearside.