Category: 1935

Little Bispham Underground Boat Store

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The underground boat store at Little Bispham has a fascinating and multi-layered history. Originally constructed in 1935 as a subterranean car park, it was designed to accommodate around 90 vehicles. However, its location beneath the promenade made it highly susceptible to flooding during high tides. This persistent issue led Blackpool Town Council to abandon the facility not long after it was built. During World War II, the structure found a new purpose when the British aircraft manufacturer Vickers Armstrong utilised it as a secret storage facility. The enclosed, hidden nature of the underground space made it ideal for keeping wartime… Read more »

Lilias Munro is Spotted in Blackpool by Dancer Miss Bluebell

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LILIAS MUNRO former Bluebell girl, head of make-up at BBC Television in the north of England and step mother of deceased Disney movie actress JANET MUNRO, died at 2am on 19 July 2004 at Victoria Hospital in Blackpool of cancer. Lilias (Lily) Smith was born in Wigan on 24 January 1917. She was spotted by Miss Bluebell (Margaret Kelly) on a visit to Blackpool in 1935 and brought to Paris to dance as one of the famous Bluebell Girls. Lilias returned to England on the outbreak of World War 11 and married Scots Comedian Alex Horsburgh (Munro) in Preston, Lancashire… Read more »

Jimmy Armfield: A Footballing Great

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Jimmy Armfield was a distinguished English footballer, manager, and broadcaster. Born in 1935, Denton, Lancashire, he moved to Blackpool during World War II, a town closely tied to his footballing legacy. Armfield spent his entire professional playing career with Blackpool FC, making 627 appearances between 1954 and 1971 as a right-back. Known for his defensive skill and leadership, he captained the club for a decade. Internationally, he earned 43 caps for England from 1959 to 1966, captaining the national team 15 times. He was part of England’s 1966 World Cup-winning squad but did not play due to injury. After retiring… Read more »

Birth of Burton’s Biscuits

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The first Burton’s biscuits were baked by George Burton (born 1829, Leek, Staffordshire), who began production on Corporation Street, Blackpool. The Burton’s Biscuits firm was founded by George’s grandson, Joseph Burton, in 1935. It had a factory in Slough, Berkshire, until the early 1980s, manufacturing potato crisps and snacks, including Potato Puffs and Fish ‘n’ Chips savoury snacks. In 2014, Burton’s re-launched their Fish ‘n’ Chips snacks due to popular demand. In 2000, the business was sold by Associated British Foods to Hicks Muse Tate & Furst. On 18 March 2007, Burton’s was acquired by Duke Street Capital.[6] In September 2009,… Read more »

Fleetwood’s Marine Hall

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Marine Hall is a striking Art Deco theatre located on Fleetwood’s scenic seafront, built in 1935. The building is renowned for its beautiful architectural design, with the ballroom being one of its most notable features, highlighted by a stunning glazed dome that takes centre stage. The venue retains much of the charm and elegance of its 1930s Art Deco heritage, making it a unique and atmospheric setting for a wide variety of events. Situated against the backdrop of Fleetwood’s Marine Gardens, the venue offers lovely views from its outdoor terrace and performance area, which also overlooks the surrounding recreational facilities…. Read more »