Author: Ed

George Formby Society attends Blackpool Convention

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The George Formby Society was at the Blackpool Convention this June, showing their commitment to preserving George Formby’s legacy. Formed to honour the famous entertainer, the society keeps his musical traditions alive by performing his classic songs on the ukulele. Their appearance at the convention highlights their dedication to sharing Formby’s music and memory with new audiences. The George Formby Society, founded in 1960, is a fan-based organisation dedicated to preserving and celebrating the life and legacy of George Formby, one of Britain’s most beloved entertainers of the 20th century. Known for his skills as a ukulele player, singer, and…

George Formby Plaque Unveiled at Home

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In 2012, George Formby was honored with a blue plaque at Beryldene, celebrating his lasting impact. The ukulele has become closely associated with Formby, who was known for his cheerful smile, child-like charm, and unforgettable performances cherished by people on the Fylde Coast. George was born in Wigan in 1904 and initially seemed headed for a different career. His father, George Formby Snr, a well-known performer, once said there was no need for ‘another fool’ in the family. But after his father passed away in 1921, George Formby Jr. chose to continue his father’s legacy. His early act resembled his… Read more »

George Formby at Football Match

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On 6 May 1939, during the Blackpool versus Portsmouth match, George Formby was photographed alongside two key figures of the football world: James Blair, the captain of Blackpool FC, on the left, and Jimmy Guthrie, the captain of Portsmouth FC, on the right. The trio was holding the FA Cup, which had been recently won by Portsmouth just a week earlier, following their victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers in the final at Wembley. This moment captured a sense of celebration and camaraderie, with the FA Cup symbolising not only Portsmouth’s triumph but also the enduring connection between football and popular culture…

Samuel L Jackson Visits Fleetwood

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Samuel L. Jackson made an entertaining appearance on “The Graham Norton Show,” where he shared a humorous story about his visit to Fleetwood involving taking selfies and sightseeing to spot what the town at the time was known for.

Henri Farman and the Birth of Aviation at Blackpool Airport

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The first flight from Blackpool Airport, which was originally known as Squires Gate Airport, happened in 1909 with French aviator Henri Farman flying the plane. This marked the beginning of the airport’s long history and made it one of the oldest active airports in the UK. The flight was part of the UK’s first official aviation meeting in October 1909, which drew a lot of attention from early aviation pioneers and enthusiasts. Henri Farman, an important figure in early aviation known for his work in powered flight, piloted the aircraft during this event. The meeting was a key moment in…

Hangar 42 Spitfire Visitor Centre at Blackpool Airport

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The Lytham St Annes Spitfire Display Team was founded in 2009 by Chairman John Coombes to raise funds for the RAF Memorial at Fairhaven Lake in Lytham St Annes. Back in 1940, the people of Lytham St Annes raised £6,500 to buy a Spitfire Mark Vb W3644, which was sadly shot down in 1942, resulting in the loss of its pilot, Sgt. Alan Lever-Ridings. Now, a full-size replica of W3644 stands proudly at the Spitfire Memorial at Fairhaven Lake (FY8 1BD). The Spitfire Display Team continues to support the Spitfire Visitor Centre at Blackpool Airport through fundraising and is available…

100 Years of Flying – Blackpool Airport Celebrates Milestone

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In 2009, Blackpool Airport celebrated its 100th anniversary. Originally called Squires Gate Airport, it opened in 1909 and quickly became a major player in early aviation by hosting the UK’s first official aviation meeting that same year. This marked the start of the airport’s long and important history. During World War I, the airport was used for military training and aircraft production as a Royal Flying Corps base. It continued to play a crucial role in World War II, serving as a key base for the Royal Air Force and for making military planes. After the wars, the airport shifted…

Funny Bones Comes To Blackpool

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=""] “Funny Bones,” a 1995 comedy-drama directed by Peter Chelsom, prominently features Blackpool, as one of its main filming locations. Famous for its entertainment history, comedy, and variety shows, Blackpool was the perfect backdrop for a film about humor and performance. The town’s lively and nostalgic vibe provided an ideal setting. This coupled with renowned landmarks and amusement venues, like the Blackpool Tower, the historic Winter Gardens, and the bustling piers and promenade, gave the film a distinctive and authentic feel. These iconic spots helped ground the story in a recognisable place, adding to its unique visual style. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column…

Launch of ‘Naturally Insane’ The Life of Dan Leno

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The launch of NATURALLY INSANE! THE LIFE OF DAN LENO, a new play by Blackpool based writer David Slattery-Christy featured Blackpool’s own panto star Steve Royle. For more on David Slattery-Christy, please see our other post here. Victorian superstar Dan Leno, a comedic genius from the English music hall scene, delighted audiences with his lively and quirky performances during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for his clever jokes and energetic style, Leno became a beloved entertainer in his time and left a legacy that continues to this day; especially his influence with physical comedy, making him a…

Elmslie Girls School

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Elmslie Girls School, founded in 1918 by three sisters—Elizabeth, Polly, and Peggie Brodie—was an institution that stood out not only for its academic success but also for its distinctive atmosphere and strong sense of community. Located on Whitegate Drive in a large, detached house, the school served as a nurturing environment for girls, offering them opportunities to excel in various fields, including competitive sports, music, science, and the arts. Elmslie Girls School, which was an all-girls school for the majority of its history, did admit boys at the preschool or early years level. The school was known for providing an… Read more »