The Underpasses

In this episode, we explore The Underpasses—examining the ideal of safe routes to school and the reality of 'betwixt and between' spaces. This episode brings together fascinating stories and creative expressions from Washington, brought to life by the community and special guests. It featurse Underpass, a ballad written and performed by David Brewis.

Underpass (after Jake)

David Brewis

When I was just a bairn

Barely bar-stool high

I’d nestle in the club

To see what stories might pass by

And every now and then

I’d hear the most alluring lass

Tell a handsome washy chap

She’d show him round her underpass

Underpass

Take a tour around my underpass

A three-dimensional, architectural

Oh, so peculiar wonder

It’s my underpass

It could be your underpass

And though it may sound crass

I love you so

I’d cycled through a few

On my evening paper round

I’d never thought to wonder

What enchantments might abound

Within their lustrous concrete walls

Such prefabricated class

No troglodyte could tarnish

Her exemplary underpass

Underpass

Take a tour around my underpass

A three-dimensional, architectural

Oh, so peculiar wonder

It’s my underpass

It could be your underpass

And though it may sound crass

I’d ask you, dear, to dash

The romance may not last

I love you… now

Guests:

Washington Community Podcasting Group, Dr. Ian Cook, Northumbria University, Professor Caroline Mitchell, University of Sunderland, Jude Murphy, Tommy Anderson, Chris Morland, Claire Kingston, Jamie Murray, Ged Parker (Washington History Society), Roger Morris, Jennifer Tindall, Mike Clay.

Music and Production

• Produced by: Grace Stubbings & the Washington Community Podcasting Group
• Music by: David Brewis & Paige Temperley
• Executive Producers: Caroline Mitchell & Jude Murphy

About the Project

This episode was developed in collaboration with:

• Washington Heritage Partnership
• Sunderland City Council’s Washington Area Committee
• Sunderland Culture at The Arts Centre Washington
• Baseline Shift
• We Make Culture

Supported by:

• The University of Sunderland
• The National Lottery Heritage Fund

Acknowledgments

Special thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players for making this project possible.