1937

Greyhound Racing Finishes at Clifton Park Racecourse, Squires Gate

Clifton Park Racecourse at Squires Gate was a short-lived greyhound track in Blackpool, operating for just four years before closing in 1937. Often mistaken for the nearby Blackpool Greyhound Stadium, Clifton Park had an unusual layout that ultimately contributed to its decline. Originally, the site was relocated in 1911 to a large area of land south of Blackpool and north of St Annes-on-Sea, intended to become a long-term venue for horse racing. A grandstand was constructed on the south side of Squires Gate Lane, while 144 stable boxes were built near Blackpool Golf Links. To the east of the racecourse, Squires Gate Airfield was in use for public entertainment.

Despite high expectations, the venture struggled due to overspending on construction and prize money, combined with difficulties in attracting high-quality racing fields, leading to declining attendances. The company was forced into liquidation, and in 1916, the King’s Lancashire Military requisitioned the site, transforming it into a convalescent hospital for wounded soldiers during the First World War. By 1919, the airfield owners took over the land, demolishing adjacent huts to expand the aerodrome, although the grandstand and stables remained. The grandstand continued to serve as a rehabilitation centre until 1924, after which it was handed over to the Lancashire School of Aviation. In late 1932, Blackpool Greyhound and Racecourse Ltd initiated a five-month construction project, purchasing a small portion of the 140-acre site next to the grandstand. At the same time, the aerodrome was acquired by the West Coast Aero Club, which aimed to provide flights to the Isle of Man. The exterior of the grandstand was refurbished, while an oval greyhound track and sporting arena were built within the former horse racing course. The newly established Stadium Club and Aero Club featured offices, lounges, and refreshment facilities.

The track layout was unconventional, featuring an extraordinary 500-yard straight in front of the grandstand, with the more traditional oval circuit positioned further away. This design was reminiscent of the modern Towcester Greyhound Stadium. The first greyhound meeting was held on 7 April 1933, with a £500 prize handicap race over 550 yards—a significant purse at the time. The opening ceremony was conducted by Chairman Col. C.J.M. Thornhill, accompanied by H. Leo Craven Sr. and Jr. The first-ever winner was Curious Mickey, who completed the race in 30.72 seconds. Later that evening, a 500-yard straight race was won by Heswall Warrior in 27.57 seconds, while the famous greyhound Beef Cutlet later set a world record for 500 yards on the straight, clocking 26.13 seconds. Two major factors led to the track’s rapid demise. Firstly, the oval circuit was too far from the grandstand, with the long straight obstructing spectator views of the main racing action. Secondly, St Annes Greyhound Track, located to the north, had already been established six years earlier and continued to attract solid attendances, making it difficult for Squires Gate to compete. As a result, greyhound racing at Clifton Park ceased in 1937 after just four years.

In contrast, the West Coast Aero Club flourished, purchasing additional land from the Clifton Estate to expand its operations. With the outbreak of World War II, the Air Ministry took control of the site, which later evolved into Blackpool Airport. Today, the former location of the grandstand is believed to have been where the hotel and terminal car park now stand.

 

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