My name is Sven Olaf McLean. I'm setting out to try to learn about my past with the help of Middlesbrough Council's Staying Put Agency This blog will chart my journey of discovery.

 

I was born in Middlesbrough in 1952 and my birth certificate states my mother was Robertina McClean. She lived at 9 West Street Middlesbrough. My Mum was a single parent. I was told that my Father was a Swedish Seaman. I believe my parents met in Middlesbrough.

I am also aware of my father visiting Southfield Road, which I believe to have been a Hangout place for the Scandinavian Seaman at the time. I remember living at an old workhouse on the corner of St Barnabas Road when I was around 6 years old for around 3 weeks until I was taken into care. I believe my Mum died when she was 22 years old and I was told this by Staff at the Care Home, but I don’t know how she died. I remember the care home (Bloomans) being on Cambridge Road and I remember a visit by someone who brought me sweets but have no recollection of who they were and why they visited. That's all I have to go on - wish me luck