The daily clank and grind of the docks A beckoning sound for men who toiled Families of workers with calloused hands Trudged down to the river, lunch wrapped in foil Wheels turn in circles, more orders await There’s ships to be built, wealth to create This was a town that looked out on the world Its horizons lay far, its vision unblinkered Making rich men richer, and working men proud With inventors and builders, creators and thinkers Wheels turn in circles, the stars were aligned Merchants grew wealthy as draughtsmen designed A sadness hangs over this once vibrant town Shopfronts are boarded in streets that had thrived Ashen-faced people, eyes lifeless and cold Bereft of ambition, a lost yearning to strive Wheels turn in circles, new rivals were feared Ships were built elsewhere, work disappeared But grey clouds will pass, a bright age will dawn The rebirth of endeavour rippling over the river There’s energy to harness, and skills to acquire Fresh minds to ignite, and success to deliver Wheels turn in circles, good fortune will follow There’s a future to build, a better tomorrow