Tag: 1940

WWII Pillbox at Fleetwood Road

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Fleetwood, like other coastal areas in the UK, saw the construction of pillboxes during World War II as part of a defensive network against potential invasion. These concrete structures, often with loopholes for firing weapons, were designed to be sturdy guard posts, capable of withstanding small arms fire and grenades. One example in Fleetwood is located on Fleetwood Road, opposite Cala Gran caravan park. There is another pillbox in Salisbury Woodlands at Stanley Park and another at the South Shore Cricket Club. This image clearly shows how the landowner or farmer has chosen to dump a mound of soil behind… Read more »

WWII Pillbox in Salisbury Woodlands at Stanley Park

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Hidden among the trees in Salisbury Woodland Gardens near Stanley Park, just next to Blackpool Zoo, stands a hexagonal concrete pillbox bunker — a relic from one of the most tumultuous periods in modern history. Built in 1940, this reinforced structure was part of Britain’s inland defence network during the Second World War. Though modest in size, it played a crucial role as a lookout post for Stanley Park Municipal Airport, which itself became a key military asset during the war. Originally opened in 1931 as Blackpool’s primary civil airport, Stanley Park Municipal Airport was requisitioned by the Royal Air… Read more »

Michael Harvey Teacher, Actor and Writer Arrives in Blackpool

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Blackpool lost one of its greatest treasures on 22 June 2024, a marvellous thinker and fountain of literary and theatrical knowledge, and always happy to share the wealth of his insight. One of his many remarkable talents was his ability to recite countless lines of great prose from Dickens to Wordsworth, or dialogue from great movies, plays or musicals. Michael was born in Oxford on 8 July 1935. His father was a percussionist in a theatre orchestra for all his working life, his mother a housewife; and happy to be that to care for Michael and his younger sister Margaret. His… Read more »

Despite Turbulent Times in the Pub Trade, Duckworth Stays on Top

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The government’s ban on cigarette vending machines in restaurants, pubs, and clubs had a significant impact on these businesses and their suppliers. Despite this, Rod Bullough has successfully navigated these challenging times, ensuring the continuation of his family business. One of the ways he has done this is by designing a ‘back bar’ cigarette dispenser, which appears to comply with current regulations. The tobacco control industry claimed that 52,000 children in England accessed cigarettes via vending machines each year. However, this figure was based on estimates and the responses of teenagers from a limited number of surveys. While consumer opposition… Read more »

Why Hitler Planned to Spare Blackpool in a British Invasion

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Documents reveal that Adolf Hitler had plans for Blackpool and intended to use Blackpool Tower if he invaded Britain. Blackpool has been a popular seaside resort since the Victorian era, originally meant as a getaway for factory workers. Its popularity grew in the mid-20th century, attracting millions of visitors and famous performers. What’s less known is that Hitler was also interested in Blackpool. As the leader of Nazi Germany, Hitler had detailed plans for Blackpool if he managed to conquer Britain. Although he bombed other British cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham during the Blitz, he chose not to bomb… Read more »