Author: Ed

Judy Garland at the Opera House

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Judy Garland’s appearance at Blackpool’s Opera House on Sunday, 24 June 1951, remains a legendary moment in the venue’s history. The 28-year-old star, brought to the UK by promoter Harold Fielding as part of a major concert tour, was experiencing a transitional phase in her career. With her film work in decline, Garland sought to rekindle her stardom through live performances in some of Britain’s most prestigious venues. The anticipation was palpable as more than 6,000 fans packed the Opera House for two shows that evening. Outside, devoted admirers gathered around the stage door, hoping for a glimpse of the…

World War Drama filming on St Annes beach

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The BBC’s filming of World on Fire at Lytham St Annes has drawn significant attention, as the North Beach has been meticulously transformed to replicate the beaches of Dunkirk. The dramatic recreation of one of World War II’s most pivotal moments showcases the production’s commitment to authenticity. The scene forms part of the series’ exploration of the Dunkirk evacuation, a crucial episode in the early years of the war that saw the rescue of hundreds of thousands of Allied troops trapped on the French coast. World on Fire, created by Peter Bowker, offers a deeply human perspective on World War… Read more »

Netflix Filming Stay Close in Blackpool

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A Netflix crew were filming a new show called ‘Stay Close’ on the promenade, which will star actor James Nesbitt. This short video was made on an iPhone on 30 June 2021. This video is just one of many terrific videos you’ll find on the producer’s YouTube channel.

The Frightening World of 1950s Blackpool Pleasure Beach

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On 8 August 1957, ITN’s Reggie Bosanquet travelled to the British seaside resort of Blackpool. On a mission to enjoy the famed attractions of Blackpool Pleasure Beach and explore the town’s booming tourism industry, Bosanquet captured a number of colourful characters and a culture quite alien to the 21st Century. Among them, the fearless men responsible for cleaning Blackpool Tower, the no-nonsense nurse charged with reuniting lost children with their families, and a man with a special job at the fair… There are more Pleasure Beach related posts on the timeline: The Big One, The Pleasure Beach, Pleasure Beach Fire,… Read more »

Dream Town – A Brief Anatomy of Blackpool

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In 1994, the BBC ran a Blackpool theme night. For some, the most interesting programme on it was this documentary where actor David Thewlis explores some of the odder parts of the town. Some of these places are gone now so it’s a bit of a time piece. We see Ripley’s Forteana museum, Louis Tussaud’s Anatomy Exhibition, The Tower Aquarium and tons more besides. Amongst many things, his video features Jayne Mansfield switching on the lights in 1959. You can read more about HERE on Blackpool Timeline.

Arena – Blackpool Documentary

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The long-running BBC arts series takes a look at Blackpool. First broadcast 13th January 1989.

Three Salons at the Seaside

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An update from December 2022 stated that a visitor returning to Blackpool reported not being able find Tricia’s, but could see that Vanity Box was still there with a new facade and neat as a new pin although apparently not trading – Hillary would be just over 80 at the time. Mary’s Way was also trading then although under different management. Mary herself was interviewed by a radio news programme and sounded in fine fettle then. From 1994, this slice of pure television gold focuses on the staff and customers of three Blackpool hair dressing salons. Stories of love, loss… Read more »

Fairhaven Lake Spitfire Memorial

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Not far from an edge of Fairhaven Lake there sits a Spitfire W3644 replica mounted on a pole, its restoration paid for with funds raised by residents of Lytham St Annes. This replica represents the one flown by Sergeant Alan Lever Ridings. Sadly, both plane and pilot were lost on 23rd June 1942. Thanks to the fundraising efforts by the Lytham St Annes Spitfire Display Team between 2009 and 2012, the public now has this fabulous memorial for visitors to enjoy. The following is an excerpt taken from a plaque at the display: Putting together a picture of what happened… Read more »

Funny Woman Filming in Blackpool and St Annes

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St Trinian’s and James Bond actress Gemma Arterton is pictured here being filmed in St Annes for a TV series, an adaptation of Nick Hornby’s book – Funny Girls. The crew were in the resort for several days, filming scenes for the Sky Original show, the story taking place in Blackpool in the 1960s. Arterton was shooting scenes in St Anne’s on 24 September 2021, close to the pier and on the beach, and was almost unrecognisable in a bleach blonde wig and retro-inspired costume. At the time of filming, the name for the series adaptation of Nick Hornby’s best-selling novel… Read more »

Geri Halliwell Switches On The Lights

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On 3 September 2004, former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell took centre stage in Blackpool to perform before activating the Blackpool Illuminations in a grand celebration of their 125th anniversary. This milestone year, dubbed “125 Electric Light Years,” paid homage to the enduring legacy of this iconic annual event. Geri was joined on stage by an array of star performers, including chart-topping boy band McFly, Fame Academy sensation Lemar, former Savage Garden frontman Darren Hayes, 1980s hitmakers Swing Out Sister, and the cast of Boogie Nights, featuring entertainers Jimmy Osmond and Billy Pearce. The event was a dazzling spectacle hosted by… Read more »