There’s a wonderful research study of North Eastern Brickworks by Peter J Davidson, published by Portcullis Press in 1986... its handwritten. Only one brick factory survives today in Gateshead - Ipstock at Birtley. Here’s  a series of images taken at Birtley in September 2010 - starting with the piles of clay outside, through the mixing, hand and machine making to the drying firing and packing. Thanks to John Clayson at the Discovery Museum in Newcastle and Ray Johnson the Birtley factory manager for their time and assistance.... Peter J. Davidson couldn’t be located for his permission, and as I’m visually quoting his study I hope this is OK. Peter if you’re out there please get in touch...