Author: Ed

Coastal Radio Local Business Awards

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The inaugural Coastal Radio LBA (Local Business Awards) in 2024 was a resounding success, setting the stage for what promises to become an annual highlight in the region’s business calendar. The event was made possible by the incredible support of Coastal Radio’s headline sponsor, Danbro Business Solutions and Financial Planning, alongside the invaluable contributions of the other 24 category sponsors, all of whom played a vital role in bringing the awards to life. A heartfelt thank you was extended to every sponsor, partner, and supplier involved in the event. Without their commitment and dedication, this celebration of local business excellence…

The Enterprise Vision Awards

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The Enterprise Vision Awards (EVAs) are one of the most prestigious business awards for women in the UK, celebrating the achievements, talents, and entrepreneurial spirit of women in business across a range of industries. Founded in 2010, the awards aim to inspire and showcase the success of women who have shown exceptional leadership, innovation, and success in their respective fields. The event is particularly significant for highlighting the contributions of women in business and empowering them to continue making strides in a traditionally male-dominated arena. Each year, the Enterprise Vision Awards bring together a diverse range of female entrepreneurs, leaders,…

Russ Abbot in September Song

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Russ Abbot’s career seamlessly blended slapstick comedy, musical performances, and dramatic moments, earning him a beloved place in British entertainment. Known for his high-energy routines, he became a household name through The Russ Abbot Show, which ran during the 1980s and 1990s. The variety show, with its sketches, musical parodies, and Abbot’s signature impersonations, captured the same vibrant, theatrical spirit that made Blackpool famous for its live entertainment scene. His performances were often a mix of colourful characters and comedic mayhem, echoing the lively atmosphere of seaside resorts like Blackpool, where variety shows had long been a draw for both… Read more »

Sophie Tucker – From Opera House to Thornton

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Sophie Tucker was born Sonya Kalish on January 13, 1886, in Tulchin, Ukraine, then part of the Russian Empire. Several months after her birth, her family immigrated to the United States and later settled in Hartford, Connecticut. Sophie Tucker, widely known as the “Last of the Red Hot Mamas,” was one of the most iconic entertainers of the early 20th century, renowned for her bold stage presence, powerful contralto voice, and pioneering contributions to vaudeville and popular music. Her career spanned decades, from the early days of vaudeville in New York to Hollywood films, radio, and a celebrated recording career….

Stanley Matthews Honoured

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Stanley Matthews was born in Hanley, Stoke on Trent in 1915. His father, a professional boxer known as ‘The Fighting Barber’, instilled a lifelong dedication to training in the young Stan. From the age of six onwards Stanley did deep breathing exercises, chest expanding and skipping, and walked everywhere. In 1948, Stanley Matthews achieved a historic milestone by being named the inaugural English Footballer of the Year, a recognition of his remarkable skill and influence on the field. That same year, he also made his debut in the FA Cup Final for Blackpool FC, marking the beginning of his three…

Showzam!

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Showzam is a vibrant festival that celebrates Circus, Magic, and Variety, and since its debut in 2008, it has grown into a major highlight of Blackpool’s event calendar. It has been on for several years and stopped prior to the COVID epidemic, but it’s back in February 2025. Each year, the festival becomes more ambitious, offering a diverse range of performances that appeal to all ages. For five days, Blackpool is transformed into ‘Circus Town,’ showcasing the very best in international circus and street performances. Over 25,000 visitors flocked to see performers from eleven different countries taking over the streets,…

Blackpool’s First Pride Event

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Blackpool’s Pride event, which began in 2006, has since become an annual celebration that continues to grow in both size and significance. The festival includes a lively parade, a rich lineup of live performances, and an eclectic mix of entertainment. A standout feature of the event is Youth Pride, specifically tailored for those under 18, offering a range of activities, stalls, and performances designed for younger audiences. A signature element of the Pride celebrations is the playful use of rainbow wigs, often worn by participants. On 9th June 2018, the town’s Pride event was a dazzling display of colour, as…

Married Dangling From The Tower

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In 1985, escapologist Karl Bartoni and his bride, Wendy Stokes, created an unforgettable spectacle when they married while suspended high above Blackpool Tower. Surrounded by flowers, the couple was lowered in an open cage, 450 feet above a crowd of 20,000 onlookers below. With a vicar, a choir, and a church organ stationed at the top of the Tower, they exchanged vows while standing on a plank, suspended in mid-air. Sadly, the couple later parted ways, and Bartoni—whose real name was Antoni Peter Bartnik—humorously arranged for his headstone to be made in advance, joking that it would allow him to…

Pete & Sophie Win Big with Gogglebox

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Tremaine, Twaine, and Tristan, alongside Pete and Sophie Sandiford from Gogglebox, celebrated their win for Best Entertainment Show at the TRIC Awards 2022, held at Grosvenor House in London on Wednesday, 6th July. The couple, known for their charming presence on the Channel 4 series, dazzled on the blue carpet as Gogglebox triumphed at the prestigious TV awards. The Sandifords, siblings from Blackpool, made their way to the event in central London, joining fellow television and radio personalities. All smiles, they were thrilled to see their beloved show recognised with the accolade for Best Entertainment Show. For many, one of…

Prince William and Kate Middleton visit Blackpool Tower

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The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and Kate Middleton, made a visit to Blackpool Tower, where they took part in a roundtable discussion about the town’s recent history, the challenges it faces, and the ongoing regeneration efforts. Hundreds of well-wishers gathered on the promenade to greet them, despite the rain, as they toured the town to learn about its social and health issues, alongside some of Blackpool’s iconic landmarks. Their visit began at Blackpool Tower, before taking them to some of the most deprived areas, where they witnessed firsthand the regeneration work currently underway. Their tour began at…