Cartmell PR Puts King Kong on Blackpool Tower

Brian Cartmell was a prominent public relations (PR) professional based in Blackpool, England. He began his career as a journalist in Lancashire before moving to Canada and later returning to the UK in the early 1960s to join the Daily Mirror. After narrowly missing an opportunity to become a BBC-TV sport anchorman, he transitioned into PR, working in Manchester for 12 years before establishing his own agency in Blackpool.

Operating from a modest terraced house in Caunce Street, Cartmell’s PR firm achieved significant success, boasting an annual turnover of £1 million. Aside from putting King Kong on Blackpool Tower in 1884, Cartmell PR was known for launching and promoting major products and brands in the UK, including the Cabbage Patch Doll, Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), Rubik’s Cube, and the Barbie Doll. Another promotional event included a man using a jetpack to fly around Blackpool Tower. His client roster featured notable names such as Coca-Cola, Reebok, Mattel, Corgi, and Thwaites beer. They also helped to promote ‘Eddie the Eagle’, the former British ski-jumping olympic champion. By this time the business had grown and moved into 12-14 Hardman Street.

Cartmell’s influence extended beyond product promotions; he was involved in public relations for high-profile individuals and events. He worked with motorcycle stuntman Evel Knievel and was associated with John Broome of Alton Towers fame. His expertise was recognized to the extent that he was once considered, albeit incorrectly reported, as a potential PR adviser to the Queen. However, in the photo below and in the background image, Brian Cartmell can be seen with the Queen at an event in Blackpool Tower. In recognition of his contributions to the community, Cartmell was appointed as an ambassador for Blackpool Football Club, highlighting his commitment to promoting the resort’s name both nationally and internationally.

Cartmell’s career is marked by his practical approach to public relations, emphasizing honesty and strategic planning. He was known for his straightforward demeanor and dedication to his clients, making significant impacts in the PR industry from his base in Blackpool.

Left to right: Brian Cartmell, Lady Rayne, Roy Page, Steve Brailey, John Conlan, Lord Rayne, Her Majesty and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, who is more visible in the background image.