It seems just like the other day, When the river Tyne was all a go, About a score of steam tugs, Would be pulling ships to and fro
It seems just like the other day
When the river Tyne was all a go
About a score of steam tugs
Would be pulling ships to and fro
The smoke belching from their funnels
While moving vessels in and out of docks
They would ease the ships in any direction
Just like keys fitting into their locks
The tug’s toots you would hear
Right through the night and all day
A steam tug going flat out
Is a lovely sight I would say
Just to do a simple ship’s docking
Eight tugs or more they would need
Juggling the different ships around on the tides
Had to be done with safety and speed
No fancy wheelhouse hardware
Just good timing with lots of skill
On a sunny day you can just sit and dream
Of those wonderful steam tug days still
Sadly the steam tug days are now numbered
The time clock is now ticking on
I think it will be a very sad day
When on the river Tyne we have none