Author: Ed

First British Homing Pigeon Show

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In 1977, a big pigeon show took place in Blackpool, drawing attention from pigeon fanciers, or those who breed and show pigeons, across the UK. This event was the 55th British Homing World Show of the Year, often called the “Blackpool Show,” one of the largest and most respected pigeon shows in the world. The 1977 show brought together thousands of pigeon lovers, both from the UK and other countries. Breeders showcased their best pigeons in different competitions, and many spectators came to watch. Pigeons were judged based on their breed, looks, and how they performed, with awards given for…

Thatcher Attends Conservative Party Conference

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=""] Margaret Thatcher’s visits to Blackpool for the Conservative Party’s annual conference were key moments during her time as leader and Prime Minister. These events in Blackpool were her stage to lay out her policies, rally her supporters, and speak directly to the nation. One of the most memorable visits was in October 1989. By then, she had already been Prime Minister for ten years. Her government had pushed through big changes, like privatization and deregulation, but faced criticism, especially around the poll tax and economic inequality. At the 1989 conference in Blackpool, Thatcher focused on defending her economic…

Derby Baths on Blackpool Promenade

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Derby Baths in Blackpool, which opened on 22 July 1939, quickly became the town’s premier spot for swimming and recreation. Designed in the popular Art Deco style, it featured a large swimming pool, saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas. For decades, it was a central hub for the community, hosting events, fitness classes, and social gatherings, making it a beloved landmark in Blackpool. However, after years of declining visitor numbers and growing concerns about the building’s condition, Derby Baths closed on 31 December 1991. Although there were discussions about renovating and possibly reopening the facility, the decision was made to…

Young Blackpool Filmmaker Ryan J. Smith Achieves Worldwide Movie Releases

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The Skint Film Company, founded in 2019, is the film production vehicle of filmmaker Ryan J. Smith.Skint was formed to handle all aspects of production and delivers high quality films for theatrical and streaming distribution. Its recent productions TALKING TO GHOSTS and LOTTERY are available on Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Tubi, Plex and more – putting them in position to undertake more commercial projects with bigger studio and financing partners. Previous productions include the documentary feature RED LIGHT SOLO and the short films BRIGHT EYES and THE BULL AND THE BEAR. Ryan works closely with friends Adam Bentley (visual effects), Alisdair… Read more »

Blackpool: Julie Anne Robinson’s Musical Drama Series

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“Blackpool” is a British television musical drama series directed by Julie Anne Robinson, which aired on BBC One in 2004. Set in the seaside town of Blackpool, a popular tourist spot in England, the show blends drama, musical, and comedy elements in a unique way. The series follows Ripley Holden, a charismatic man who owns an amusement arcade in Blackpool. His dream is to make the town a top entertainment destination. However, his plans face a major setback when a murder happens in his arcade, leading to an investigation by the determined Detective Peter Carlisle. As the investigation unfolds, Ripley’s…

Charlie Cairoli Statue moved to the Tower

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The statue of Charlie Cairoli was initially placed in Stanley Park in Blackpool to honour his contributions to the town’s entertainment scene. But because of his special connection to the Blackpool Tower Circus, the statue was moved to the Blackpool Tower. This relocation was to better recognise his legacy by putting the statue at the place where he made such a big impact. The Blackpool Tower is a historic landmark, and its Tower Circus has been a central part of Blackpool’s entertainment since it opened in 1894. Moving Cairoli’s statue to the Blackpool Tower allows visitors to celebrate his work…

John Barnett MBE Becomes High Sheriff of Lancashire

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John Barnett MBE, a successful businessman from Blackpool, officially started his role as the new High Sheriff of Lancashire on Wednesday 13 April 2016. At the installation ceremony at County Hall in Preston, he promised to do everything he could for the people of Blackpool and Lancashire over the next year. In the Fylde Coast community, he’s well known for founding Radio Wave and serving as Chairman for many years after he retired. Even though many of the High Sheriff’s powers have been reduced over time, the role still carries out important duties. It’s a voluntary position with no salary…

Gordon Brown pulls bid for ‘Super Casino’ in Blackpool

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Blackpool was really hoping to get a super casino to help revitalize the area and boost the local economy. In 2007, though, the British government, led by Prime Minister Gordon Brown, decided to give the license for the super casino to Manchester instead. This was part of a broader plan to set up regional casinos across the UK. The decision to choose Manchester over Blackpool stirred up controversy. Blackpool was considered a strong contender because of its history as a tourist spot and the potential benefits of a super casino for its economy, especially since the town played a key…

Houdini comes to Blackpool

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Harry Houdini came to Blackpool in July 1905. While he was here, he performed at the Tower Circus, located in the famous Blackpool Tower complex. This performance was part of his UK tour, where he displayed his amazing escape acts and illusions. Houdini’s appearance in Blackpool, just like his other shows, attracted a lot of attention and mesmerised the local crowd. The Tower Circus, a key venue in Blackpool, offered a perfect setting for Houdini’s thrilling and bold escapes, adding to the town’s storied history of entertainment and magic. The text and images below refer to his acts performed elsewhere,…

Blackpool Football Club reaches Premier League

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Blackpool is the only club to have moved up from every division of the Football League through the play-off system. They secured promotion after beating Cardiff City 3-2 in the Championship play-off final at Wembley Stadium on 22 May 2010. This win marked Blackpool’s return to the top level of English football after a 39-year absence. Manager Ian Holloway was ecstatic about the promotion stating that they achieved the impossible dream, and they have done it their way. Concluding that it was the proudest moment of his career. The club is now managed by Steve Bruce and has a Blackpool-born…