Memories of Sunderland: The Battle of Bunnyhill, what do you remember about it?
The Battle of Bunnyhill, was according to local legends, the most significant battle ever fought within the territory of Sunderland since the English civil war.
The area colloquially known as Bunnyhill is an open bank of green land situated off Washington road, acting as a natural barrier between Hylton Red House estate and Castletown.
Because of its geography, the hill at some point become a clashing point for rival youth groups belonging to both estates, in a similar manner to the Farras vs. Thorneys conflict explored recently.
It appears to have happened on a scale larger than any other youth confrontation, which is precisely why it is remembered more above any other one in the city’s recent history. It should come as little surprise that the area continues to be a notorious spot for anti-social behaviour even today.
However, unlike the English Civil War, few written records of the “Battle of Bunnyhill” exist and it is more a folklore of shorts shared the memories of certain people. This means it is very difficult to decipher what actually happened and who was involved.
SGM would therefore appreciate people to get in touch and share information about this extraordinary event.
