Three Towns Forum

The Local => Times Past => Topic started by: Fester on October 01, 2010, 12:22:39 am

Title: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Fester on October 01, 2010, 12:22:39 am
I pulled this picture out of the gallery ..
I reckon that this (long since deceased lady) is responsible for the theft of millions of ice-creams ever since!

Title: Re: Pier & Seagulls
Post by: DaveR on October 01, 2010, 08:09:58 am
Indeed! That's your kiosk, isn't it? The positioning of the Orme in the background would indicate so.
Title: Re: Pier & Seagulls
Post by: Merddin Emrys on October 01, 2010, 09:39:33 am
we used to feed the seagulls on the pier in the Sixties, mind you back then the seagulls were well behaved D)
Title: Re: Pier & Seagulls
Post by: Trojan on October 10, 2010, 07:24:03 am
we used to feed the seagulls on the pier in the Sixties, mind you back then the seagulls were well behaved D)

They're still well behaved today.  ;)
Title: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Merddin Emrys on November 14, 2010, 10:52:20 pm
Just found this today, its me and was made in a pier kiosk in 1966, anyone else got one?

(http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f295/AustinRover/nov%202010/PB140027.jpg)

(http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f295/AustinRover/nov%202010/PB140038.jpg)

(http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f295/AustinRover/nov%202010/PB140033.jpg)
Title: Re: Pier silouettes
Post by: Fester on November 14, 2010, 10:55:56 pm
No.... but a very nice lady came into my kiosk recently,  saying she was the daughter of the very man who MADE that silhouette,  and she wanted to come into the kiosk that he used to own ... for sentimental reasons.

Title: Re: Pier silouettes
Post by: Merddin Emrys on November 14, 2010, 11:00:16 pm
I'll bring my silhouette back into that kiosk sometime, its not been in Llandudno since 1966 until today!  D)  (can't remember when your opening hours are now!  :) )
Title: Re: Pier silouettes
Post by: Nemesis on November 15, 2010, 08:43:48 am
Yes I've got one--- I'll dig it out!
Title: Re: Pier silouettes
Post by: DaveR on November 15, 2010, 08:57:40 am
I always recall the name Richardson as doing the Silhouettes?

"In 1960 William Richardson left his native Potteries for Llandudno when he was 37 and became a star tourist attraction in his adopted town.

The former student of Burslem School of Art made his name doing quick-sketch portraits of visitors in his tiny studio on the pier, completing a charcoal drawing in 15 minutes.

When I met him nearly 20 years ago, William told me he'd drawn around 30,000 people and couldn't remember one dissatisfied customer in more than 30 years.

His sitters included two Prime Ministers, Harold Wilson and Margaret Thatcher. Both were in Llandudno in the days when party conferences were held at the resort.

William recalled another visitor who told him she'd been recommended to go to him by her neighbour – in Peru!"


http://www.thisisstaffordshire.co.uk/news/Resort-cut/article-1116827-detail/article.html (http://www.thisisstaffordshire.co.uk/news/Resort-cut/article-1116827-detail/article.html)
Title: Re: Pier silouettes
Post by: Merddin Emrys on November 15, 2010, 09:16:54 am
Looks like there were several different artists!

Captain Oakley is a well known artist/silhouettist who started work before World War I, and continued for many years afterwards. He travelled all over the British Isles, making regular appearances in Edinburgh and on Llandudno Pier. He cut both bust-length and full length silhouettes, and his work is always easy to recognise, being either signed or stamped on the front.

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/honda.burns/parlour/p40_c20.html (http://homepage.ntlworld.com/honda.burns/parlour/p40_c20.html)
Title: Re: Pier silouettes
Post by: Fester on November 16, 2010, 12:09:10 am
From what I can piece together, the Richardon guy operated from a booth near the gates, (the gates near the arcade) and he produced portraits and charactures in charcoal and chalk.
The Silhouettist operated for many years from kiosk 27...  my source for this is his daughter, and many other customers who come enquiring of me.

Title: Re: Pier silouettes
Post by: Michael on November 17, 2010, 08:58:38 pm
I had one taken (cut?) of my eldest Son when he was around six or seven----not far off fifty years ago. Its still in my familys ownership, somewhere. I remember it was done in a kiosk on the left hand side of the pier going towards the sea, actually I THOUGHT it was further along past your site, Fester, but I may be mistaken.  By chance I happened to read about the man who did them, fairly recently. It may have been in Colwyn Bay library. I'm not sure about this, I onl;y skimmed what I was reading, but I think he came from Yorkshire and lived, more or less hand to mouth in the summer months in Llandudno. He could pay for digs if he had a good day, if not he had to owe the rent.  Bit like me now, I suppose  Mike
Title: Re: Pier silouettes
Post by: DaveR on November 17, 2010, 09:22:42 pm
"Harry Lawrence Oakley was born in YorkDecember 1882.  He enjoyed cutting figures of people and animals as a small boy and had a natural aptitude for drawing.  He won places at Leeds School of Art and then the Royal College of Art in London where he was awarded his ARCA in 1908.

During his career he worked mainly in the UK, in places such as London, Worcester, York, Harrogate and Scarborough with a brief stint in Holland. It was after he returned from Holland that he organised a successful exhibition of his silhouettes in York, it was this exhibition which encouraged him to follow a career. He went on to take thousands of portraits, work for magazines and design advertisements for many big companies.

Oakley would work in London and other cities in the Winter time and seaside towns in the summer; and it was from here that the love affair with Llandudno began, visiting and working most years between 1920 and 1958. There are many people in Llandudno who will have had their portraits done as children, or still have their parents' portraits.

The exhibition includes his famous First World War recruiting poster 'Think' and examples of his work for the Bystander magazine. See his portrait of the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VIII and many more.

Harry Lawrence Oakley died in London in January 1960 and his ashes are interred in the cemetery at St Tudno's Church on the Great Orme, Llandudno."

There was an exhibition of his work at Llandudno Museum back in 2008.
Title: Re: Pier silouettes
Post by: Michael on November 21, 2010, 12:10:07 pm
Thank you for that information. What a difference between two people. Dave gets all this detail ( surely its not from his memory) and its all factually correct. The only thing I got right was that he came from Yorkshire!!!  Mike   P.s. I tell you another thing I know, Fester comes from Yorkshire as well  LOL
Title: Re: Pier silouettes
Post by: Nemesis on November 21, 2010, 01:12:04 pm
PPS So do I and so does Yorkie !
Title: Re: Pier silouettes
Post by: Yorkie on November 21, 2010, 02:58:19 pm
PPS So do I and so does Yorkie !

But Yorkie has spent more years away from Yorkshire than he has in Yorkshire.  In fact was mainly brought up in and around London but lived all over the shop, West Country, Midlands, Home Counties, Scotland and this is second period of living in Wales.  I suppose I'm what could be called a bit of a Nomad!    $uk
Title: Re: Pier silouettes
Post by: Fester on November 21, 2010, 05:47:33 pm
Did you say a bit of a Gonad?
Title: Re: Pier silouettes
Post by: Yorkie on November 21, 2010, 06:26:12 pm
No!     D)
Title: Re: Pier silouettes
Post by: Fester on November 21, 2010, 09:09:34 pm
Oh sorry... I misheard,  I'm a tad deaf you see.
Title: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Waffagolf on June 25, 2011, 01:53:27 pm
Have just come across this old picture taken on Llandudno Pier by Happy Snaps, and was only available on the pier (see reverse of picture). Don't know much else. Anyone know anything more about "Happy Snaps" on Llandudno Pier?
Title: Re: Happy Snaps on Llandudno Pier
Post by: DaveR on June 25, 2011, 05:28:45 pm
Another of these companies that photographed people randomly in the hope they would want to buy a print as a souvenir, I guess.
Title: Re: Happy Snaps on Llandudno Pier
Post by: Trojan on June 25, 2011, 06:43:56 pm
Another of these companies that photographed people randomly in the hope they would want to buy a print as a souvenir, I guess.

Isn't that where you and Fester derived your inspiration from Dave?  :laugh:
Title: Re: Happy Snaps on Llandudno Pier
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 25, 2011, 07:35:18 pm
 L0L
Title: Pier Electrician
Post by: Llechwedd on July 02, 2011, 11:28:24 am
Anyone remember Eric Potter who lived at Voryn, Caroline Road?

He had worked in theatre in London for years before coming here.
Was employed on pier and would "lamp up" from May so that a "string of pearls" would go on in September.  When he talked he would put his hand across his mouth and keep saying"scuse the teeth".  If he didn't like someone like a manager (!) he would say "he's as much use as a fart in a thunderstorm." A saying that has stuck with me for thirty years! ;D
Title: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Cornish Pastie on July 20, 2011, 08:23:11 pm
As you folks have been very helpful (and also so very knowledgeable) does anyone remember when the pier used to charge admission for going on to it?

Just inside the pier gates on the left hand side about by where the Golden Goose is/was were some motorised boats - a bit like dodgems in a square "pond" that you could ride on.  Again I know they were there in the 60's but unsure after that.

Would there be any pictures of the boats floating (sorry) around in anyones loft or old photo collection?  Be good to see them too if there are.

I will see what is left in our family archives of that era next time i catch up with my family but will get them on the case and post what i can when i get them.  I know also there is a scissor cut silhouette done of me as a child which is still around so will try and scan that as well.

Thanks in advance.
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: DaveR on July 20, 2011, 09:34:07 pm
The Dodgem Boats disappeared in about 1968, to be replaced by the Golden Goose arcade.

The Toll continued to be charged into the early 1970s but only on the main section of the pier (from Happy Valley entrance onwards).

[smg id=1009]
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Merddin Emrys on July 20, 2011, 11:10:46 pm
The Dodgem Boats disappeared in about 1968, to be replaced by the Golden Goose arcade.


And I still miss those dodgem boats, somewhere I have a picture of me on the boats, no idea where it is though :laugh:







 
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Cornish Pastie on July 21, 2011, 09:10:19 am
Thanks Dave R - you guys really are fantastic at jogging the memories and coming up with the goods.  Exactly what I was looking for!

Big thanks all round. $thanx$
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: DaveR on July 21, 2011, 10:07:02 am
You're welcome, a couple more pics of that area from the 1950-60s:

[smg id=588]

[smg id=1101]

There's also this aerial shot, which could have been taken anywhere from the 1930s-50s, as the Dodgem Boats are not yet there.

[smg id=191]
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Llechwedd on July 21, 2011, 11:57:48 am
Alica Cimatti and Olive used to "man" the kiosk further down the pier so that people coming on from happy Valley Road had too.  They were certainly still there when I worked on the pier which was late 70's.
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Trojan on July 21, 2011, 11:59:35 am
 :)
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Trojan on July 21, 2011, 12:13:44 pm
Alica Cimatti and Olive used to "man" the kiosk further down the pier so that people coming on from happy Valley Road had too.  They were certainly still there when I worked on the pier which was late 70's.

The building next to the Happy Valley Road pier gates was once a shop run by the Cimatti family.
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: DaveR on July 21, 2011, 12:39:19 pm
somewhere I have a picture of me on the boats, no idea where it is though :laugh:
 
Is that you in the pic?
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Quiggs on July 21, 2011, 04:12:59 pm
some of  the rowing boats, in the ariel photo, were owned by Tony 'Stargazer ' and he named them after celestial objects. Venus, Mars, Aries, etc. He was known as 'Stargazer' because of his interest in astronomy.
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Fester on July 21, 2011, 11:13:36 pm
I like rowing boats... and canoes, I always did,

There should be a boating lake in Llandudno, somewhere.
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Trojan on July 22, 2011, 12:48:00 am
some of  the rowing boats, in the ariel photo, were owned by Tony 'Stargazer ' and he named them after celestial objects. Venus, Mars, Aries, etc. He was known as 'Stargazer' because of his interest in astronomy.

Didn't Ted-yr-Ogof own some too Quiggs?
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Llechwedd on July 23, 2011, 10:45:10 am
Alica and Olive were in a kiosk with a gate further down the pier probably nearer to Fester not the fishing shop on Happy Valley Road.
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Quiggs on July 23, 2011, 03:42:50 pm
Yes Trojan, Ted Yr Ogof had rowing boats as well, during the summer holidays we helped to take and fetch the boats from their moorings to the jetties for the tourists to hire. If bad weather was forecast we helped to drag the boats up onto the promanade
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Yorkie on July 23, 2011, 05:00:54 pm
There should be a boating lake in Llandudno, somewhere.

Don't left the 'elf an' safety boys hear you say that!   Boats, and water - together?  They could write a whole 'elf 'n safety book on that subject!    WWW
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: suepp on July 23, 2011, 08:26:42 pm
I knew I had one of those photos somewhere! This was August 1959
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: DaveR on July 23, 2011, 09:11:37 pm
Alica and Olive were in a kiosk with a gate further down the pier probably nearer to Fester not the fishing shop on Happy Valley Road.
It was just past the first set of kiosks heading down the pier, there was a small plastic kiosk like you'd have in a car park and a barrier across the pier.
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Trojan on July 24, 2011, 06:50:57 am
Alica and Olive were in a kiosk with a gate further down the pier probably nearer to Fester not the fishing shop on Happy Valley Road.

Maybe so, but the Cimatti family did run a business from the fishing shop on Happy Valley Road. Sometime in the 1930's I believe Llech.
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Trojan on July 24, 2011, 07:07:26 am
Yes Trojan, Ted Yr Ogof had rowing boats as well, during the summer holidays we helped to take and fetch the boats from their moorings to the jetties for the tourists to hire. If bad weather was forecast we helped to drag the boats up onto the promanade

That's a coincidence, my Dad used to do the same.  :)

When he was courting my Mother, Ted borrowed him a rowing boat so he could take her for a 'trip around the bay'. Of course, he wanted to impress my Mother, so decided to row out beyond the pier head toward Pidgeons.
Suddeny they were both startled by a loud deep horn as the IOM steamer Manxman came into view around Pen Trwyn.

My Mother said my Dad's face was a picture as he attempted to turn the rowing boat around, then rowed back into the bay as if he was in the Cambridge/Oxford boat race.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Micox on July 25, 2011, 03:10:47 pm
Re dodgem boats on the pier. My old man, as one of his myriad jobs, used to manage these at one time - they were part of Tucsons amusements which were mainly underneath the pier head (he also worked down there and he used to let me have a free go on those clowns heads that turned back and forth where you put a ping pong ball in their mouths and got a prize if it landed in the right channel where the ball came out of the back of the clowns' necks. I think he worked it so I never got a prize.

I've got a photo of him and Jock Leslie arm in arm on the pier in the snow in the 1947 winter. I'll dig it out and post it here when I've got more time.

Ted didn't have anything to do with the boats on the pier - his ran from the beach.

Father also had a lot to do with Bob Kerr and the Osborne Hotel and garage (around the back opposite the first cop shop), especially driving taxis and I don't know if there was any connection with Tucsons there.
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Trojan on July 26, 2011, 04:37:30 am
Another pic of the dodgem boats, or bumper boats as they're sometimes called.
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Trojan on July 26, 2011, 09:03:07 am
Alica and Olive were in a kiosk with a gate further down the pier probably nearer to Fester not the fishing shop on Happy Valley Road.

Maybe so, but the Cimatti family did run a business from the fishing shop on Happy Valley Road. Sometime in the 1930's I believe Llech.

Cimattis' Fruit & Flower shop in Happy Valley Road and the pier toll gates in the 1930's.  ;)
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: DaveR on July 26, 2011, 09:32:08 am
Just to the left -hand side of the shop, there's a door - it can only lead to a tiny room. I've always wondered what it was originally used for. The present pier management had it bricked up a couple of months ago.
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Trojan on July 26, 2011, 09:36:08 am
Father also had a lot to do with Bob Kerr and the Osborne Hotel and garage (around the back opposite the first cop shop), especially driving taxis and I don't know if there was any connection with Tucsons there.

The taxi was a Ford V8 Pilot wasn't it Mike? My Father remembers it parked in Cwm Place.....it was his favorite kind of car as a child.

There was one displayed at the Llandudno Transport Festival last year:
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: rsj46 on September 02, 2011, 04:30:46 pm
Being an outsider, born Stoke on Trent and now in Derby I have loved visiting Llandudno again in the last two years with the next 2 generations. I have cinefilm from my childhood holidays including the bumper/dodgem boats on the pier. Judging from my appalling curly hair and nappied bum I guess the films are from the late 1940s. Does anyone remember Blackfriars hotel somewhere along the Llandudno seafront. My father became friends with the owners and went climbing with the owners son. They would start out early (when I started to wake up and cry in my cot apparently).
According to my father, the owner and his son, on holiday, got tired of sitting on the beach and went for a walk. Sometime later they returned to the rest of the family only to announce they had, quite unplanned, attended an auction and bought the Blackfriars hotel! 
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Trojan on September 08, 2011, 10:23:01 am
A photochrome postcard from around 1895 showing the pier toll gate.

The circular kiosk beyond the gates resembles a Celtic round house.
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: Fester on September 08, 2011, 09:26:01 pm
Thats where the 'Shell shop' is now.
Probably not an original kiosk, but very similar in design.
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: snowcap on September 09, 2011, 05:23:16 pm
just been looking at the rowing boats in reply#4 and it brought back the memory of when we went on a school trip back in 1953/4 and we called at llandudno, we went out in one of the row boats, at the cost of a tanner for three of us, we took it in turns to row out to the end of the pier and back. It was hard going out to sea but we shot back in. We went on to the marine lake in rhyl from there and back onto the rowing boats again, it was a dawdle compaired to llan, we even tried to race the train around the lake and came close to beating it. Good old days.
Title: Re: Pier Electrician
Post by: Cambrian on November 26, 2011, 02:00:15 pm
Yes I think I recall Eric - white flowing hair and tinted glasses.  His daughter Sue still lives in town.
Title: Re: Pier Electrician
Post by: DaveR on November 26, 2011, 06:08:49 pm
He appears in that Alex Munro documentary.
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: SCMP on January 07, 2012, 08:29:19 pm
The blackfriars hotel was on the front by where venue Cymru is today. You have the fouroaks and the Cae Mor next to eachother but i think the Cae Mor is made up of two seperate old hotels and Blackfrias is the bit in the middle or was the bit on the corner ( penrhyn crescent for google maps lol)

Hope that helps if i'm right!
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on January 19, 2012, 12:59:26 pm
Who can date this photo of the Pier - I'm saying late 1980s.

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7166/6669671353_dd7569534b_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53107977@N02/6669671353/)
Llandudno trip3 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53107977@N02/6669671353/#) by robinhardi (http://www.flickr.com/people/53107977@N02/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Fester on January 19, 2012, 01:18:23 pm
The hairstyle would suggest you are very close to the mark with that guess.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on January 19, 2012, 01:35:39 pm
The Slide would have been pretty new back then, it was one of Brendan McLoughlin's ideas when he took over as General Manager in the late 80s.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on January 21, 2012, 04:06:12 pm
One of the Pier Kiosks in 2006, I believe it looks far more attractive now:

[smg id=2631]
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: snowcap on January 21, 2012, 04:43:03 pm
does it have smelly stuff inside by any chance?
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on January 21, 2012, 04:48:11 pm
does it have smelly stuff inside by any chance?
Yes, the owner can be a bit peevish at times but he is usually very pleasant.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: snowcap on January 21, 2012, 05:20:37 pm
he,s a very nice man a very nice man indeed
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: dwsi on January 21, 2012, 06:08:39 pm
does the owner star in dodgy videos filmed by a local photographer? 'gone with the wind' is the most recent one i can think of  _))*
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 21, 2012, 06:19:39 pm
 L0L L0L

The Sandman  ;D
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Fester on January 21, 2012, 09:35:51 pm
Peevish eh?  Is that your 'word of the week' Dave?   (what's wrong with generically? ha ha  ;) ;))

Looking at the kiosk as it was in 2006, it appears to be in much better external condition than it is now.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on January 21, 2012, 09:39:37 pm
I believe its been in a half painted state for well over a year, along with various other bits of the pier that are half finished. Odd way to treat a Listed structure!
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Nemesis on January 22, 2012, 09:57:48 am
Had to hunt out our marriage certificate for some forms today (was written on tablets of stone ! ;D) and came across this pic of my paternal grandparents on Llandudno pier. Aside from the fact that Granny looks to have the most dreadful hat on I could imagine that this was in the 1950s. They used to come down from Liverpool on the St Tudno, after a train journey from Yorkshire. I still have Grandpa's walking stick, too short to use, but a nice memory!
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on January 22, 2012, 01:23:19 pm
I believe its been in a half painted state for well over a year, along with various other bits of the pier that are half finished. Odd way to treat a Listed structure!
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 22, 2012, 01:28:40 pm
looks like some of the better parts  :twoface:

The condition is shocking, is there any legal way of enforcing maintenance ?
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: martin on January 22, 2012, 01:37:29 pm
It is a worry, I was on it last week, and being on crutches, you tend to take notice of the ground, on a constant look out for holes, kerbs, and every ones favourite, Richard the Thirds.  Anyway, during my walk I was shocked at how many rotten floor boards are, I thought at the time, the owners will have difficulty finding the money to repair/replace those.  :(
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Bri Roberts on January 22, 2012, 01:42:39 pm
Now it is relatively quiet on the pier, I would have thought it would be the ideal time to carry out the repairs and painting jobs.

It is surprising how often the repairs and painting jobs are carried out on the pier in the summer when it is busy.

It makes no sense to me.

I know one the former full-time painters employed by the Pier Company but he got laid off a while back now.

Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 22, 2012, 01:43:04 pm
How long before we are discussing the pier in the eyesores section? A very sad state of affairs!
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on January 22, 2012, 03:22:07 pm
When I worked on the Pier, there was a full time Deck Crew (about 4 men) employed to carry out routine maintenance like painting, deck board repairs etc. Now, there is a Maintenance Manager and no staff. Cutting back on routine maintenance may seem like a good cost saving move but it means that small problems turn into large problems relatively quickly. Without regular painting, the wooden areas soon start to let in water and the process of rotting begins.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Bri Roberts on January 22, 2012, 03:45:03 pm
I totally agree.

I cannot understand why no maintenance is currently being carried out in the areas where there are kiddies’ attractions during the summer season which have now been put away for the winter.

I would have thought now is probably the only time any maintenance work can be carried out in those areas.

I am also surprised you say there is only one manager left as I often see one male manager and one female manager.

Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: norman08 on January 22, 2012, 05:00:44 pm
dave don,t know when you were on the crew but their were about 8 of us and the hard work was in the winter, i  walk down there now and if they are not carefull it will cost too much ,[look at colwyn bay pier]
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on January 22, 2012, 05:26:13 pm
I am also surprised you say there is only one manager left as I often see one male manager and one female manager.
One Maintenance Manager and no Maintenance staff, Bri. There is also a General Manager and Deputy GM, plus another Manager (Concessions, maybe?). Anyway, they'd be better off all wielding a paintbrush once a week and getting things sorted out.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on January 22, 2012, 05:30:45 pm
dave don,t know when you were on the crew but their were about 8 of us and the hard work was in the winter, i  walk down there now and if they are not carefull it will cost too much ,[look at colwyn bay pier]
I wasn't on Deck Crew, Norman, but I knew all of them. Back in the 1990s, there was John Lynton (boss of deck crew), Lee Jones, Brian Jones and someone else whose name eludes me.

When did you work there and can you remember any of the names? Who was the General Manager back then?
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: norman08 on January 22, 2012, 05:53:51 pm
worked there 73 to 76 george rodgers was general manager  dennis simpson was pier master vaughn turner richie sutton will riley, to name a few many a great story from them days
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Micox on January 22, 2012, 06:04:47 pm
 Z** Remember me Norm. Our group Rhythm Machine played in the Stage Door in the evening 1975/6. As an extra, George had me running the pierhead bar in the morning. Used to trundle the stock for the bar down the pier then meander about until the boats came in and we had some customers. ZXZ
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: norman08 on January 22, 2012, 06:54:25 pm
yes mike well remember ,great days /nights stood at the door listening to your band , [getting a swift beer off you] at the head bar, music isn,t the same these days
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Walkie Snaps on January 24, 2012, 05:24:18 pm
Happy Snaps prints are quite small about three and a half by two and half inches. Does anybody know if these were originally in strips of 3 in a walking sequence i.e. each photo in the strip slightly different.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: ed jones on January 30, 2012, 08:09:31 pm
I remember my brother in law Dennis SMITH was Piermaster sometime in the 70's. He later became a radio operator in the Merchant Navy. He died of cancer in 2009. His wife ( my Stepsister)still lives in Llanrhos.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: norman08 on January 30, 2012, 08:21:09 pm
yes ed den was there same time as me ,haven,t seen pat for a long time
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SCMP on February 19, 2012, 09:51:08 pm
I remember my brother in law Dennis SMITH was Piermaster sometime in the 70's. He later became a radio operator in the Merchant Navy. He died of cancer in 2009. His wife ( my Stepsister)still lives in Llanrhos.


I wonder if he went to the wireless college in Colwyn Bay? My father runs the reunion each year at the County Hotel in March. They used to hold it in hotel 70 degrees before it got knocked down.
http://www.wirelesscollege.freeserve.co.uk/ (http://www.wirelesscollege.freeserve.co.uk/)

SCMP
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: ed jones on February 24, 2012, 08:29:32 pm
Yes Dennis did go to the Wireless College in Colwyn Bay, did very well and passed out somewhere near the top of his class.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on June 06, 2012, 11:36:11 pm
Scoota Boats & Pavilion back in the 1950s or 60s (click image for full size version):

[smg id=2701]
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Michael on July 14, 2012, 10:02:04 pm
  I used to love them. They were peaceful, no noise, and you needed a certain basic idea to steer something in water.

   Bumpers, later called Dodgems because of all the damage they suffered------very little interest  Mike
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Merddin Emrys on July 14, 2012, 11:22:04 pm
I loved those, every year we went on those boats and then one year we came and they were gone  :o replaced by the Golden Goose about 1969?    :(
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: jacko on December 06, 2012, 03:38:01 pm
hello, cant believe this site is not on here, trying to get an airial photo of castell  nant y gamar http://www.britainfromabove.org.uk/and (http://www.britainfromabove.org.uk/and) just out of picture never mind,
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: jacko on December 06, 2012, 03:41:57 pm
sorry just put in Llandudno in search,
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Tosh on December 06, 2012, 08:42:10 pm
The photos are over 80 years old, don't expect miracles.
The poor soul taking the shots was probably in an open cockpit freezing to death.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Blodyn on December 07, 2012, 01:39:52 pm
Jacko, thanks very much for the link to those old aerial photos - they're fantastic! 
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on December 17, 2012, 10:29:33 am
The good old days...

[smg id=2847]
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Gwynant on December 17, 2012, 12:13:14 pm
              After just seeing at your last posting of the Pier and Pavilion, Dave. R. and also the one of Arthur Askey in answer to Romanjohn's question recently I was wondering if you had anything in your archives on "Twinkle", a seaside revue produced by Clarkson Rose and Olive Fox and which used to play the Pavilion regularly in the late 40s and early 50s and included my father who was the company comedian who was known as Rupert Rogers.
         I can remember the show's title "Twinkle" being displayed in lights across the front of the Pavilion at night and I have been given a few programmes from various people in the town over the years but no posters etc.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on December 17, 2012, 01:20:04 pm
Here's everything I have, no mention of your father though that I can see, sadly.

[smg id=3081]

[smg id=859]

[smg id=863]

[smg id=990]
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Gwynant on December 17, 2012, 03:08:56 pm
            $thanx$     $good$             
                 Thanks very much Dave.R. for your reply and cuttings. I have read through them and I found my fa $ther mentioned in the last article, (the bottom square one), in the last paragraph after "in the 25th year such a grand team as:- Eddie Childs. Rupert Rogers etc". I have some programmes but they were from the 50s. Thanks very much again.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Bri Roberts on December 17, 2012, 05:16:18 pm
 &well& Y^^Y  $3towns$
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Merddin Emrys on February 13, 2013, 11:39:45 am
from an old guide book, probably Sixties

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/P1010731_edited_zps2d8e8f91.jpg)
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on February 13, 2013, 11:47:14 am
You can see the large wooden mast (for want of a better word) at the end of the Pier by the Landing Stage that they used to fly flags on. That disappeared sometime in the 1990s, I think.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on March 14, 2013, 01:18:37 pm
LLANDUDNO PIER - FINANCIAL RESULTS 1895
North Wales Journal - 16 January 1896

The year 1895 was the most successful season for many years at Llandudno Pier and Pavilion. There was a gross revenue of £12,510 14s, 11d., an increase of £ 2,264 19s, 11d upon 1894; whilst the working expenses show an increase of only £ 159 10s 2d. The profit on the year's working is £ 4,266, 4s, 10d. as compared with £ 2,260,15s 1d. in 1894. The total sum available for dividend is £ 4,607, 10s, 4d. The directors recommend 12½ per cent dividend; that £1,000 borrowed from the reserve fund in 1895 be repaid and that £989 10s 4d be carried for-ward for future expenses. Before next season the pier-head is to be enlarged and the landing-stage farther improved, and a verandah balcony will be erected on the sea side of the Pavilion for promenading at the evening concerts.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on March 14, 2013, 01:37:50 pm
LLANDUDNO - PIER PAVILION CONCERTS
25 October 1900

Mr A. E. Bartle, for a number of years conductor of the Pier Pavilion Grand Orchestra at Llandudno, has resigned the appointment, and the directors "have engaged Mr Arthur Payne, leader and sub-conductor of the Queen's Hall Orchestra, Langham Place, London. Mr Payne is well known in Llandudno, having at one time acted as leader for Mr Riviere when the latter presided over the Llandudno pier concerts.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on March 14, 2013, 02:05:21 pm
LLANDUDNO - THE PIER REFRESHMENT ROOM
8 March 1878

The contract for the refreshment room at the end of the new pier has been let for £130 to Mr. George Brookes, chemist, of Mostyn street. Other tenders were £ 125 from Mr. Clay, Baths Hotel, £ 120 each. from Mr. Crockatt and another, and £110 from Mr. Parsons, Edgbaston Hotel. In all, eleven persons tendered.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on March 14, 2013, 02:39:51 pm
NEW PROMENADE PIER FOR LLANDUDNO.
Saturday 16 September 1876

The first pile of a new promenade pier, which is to be erected at a cost of £ 30,000, was driven at Llandudno to-day by Lord Arthur Trevor, M.P.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on March 14, 2013, 10:05:29 pm
North Wales Journal - 27 December 1901

The old swimming bath in the basement of Llandudno Pier Pavilion having been filled up with the debris from the foundations of the new Grand Hotel, the directors have had the space levelled and asphalted, and the walls are being lined throughout with white glazed bricks. Electric light fittings are installed, and the result is a hall for entertainments, fancy fairs, etc of extra- ordinary dimensions. If the Company could see their way to providing for this hall and the pavilion overhead a hot-water heating system on modern lines, with ample radiators near the entrances, to prevent the terrible draughts now experienced, the two places of assembly would be rendered much more useful for all public purposes in cold weather.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on March 14, 2013, 10:09:42 pm
North Wales Journal - 21 June 1895

An exciting scene was witnessed at Llandudno Pier on Saturday night when the St. Tudno steamer was being moored alongside to disembark passengers, of whom there were a large number on board. Two of the number by some means or other got entangled in the ropes which were being thrown ashore, and were carried overboard. One of them could swim, and managed to keep himself afloat. The second was not a swimmer, and was in an extremely perilous position, when Mr. John I Roberts, the piermaster, jumped from the pierhead and held him up until assistance arrived. Mr. Roberts, who has before been instrumental in saving life, was loudly cheered for his gallant rescue, and it is understood that steps will be taken to bring it under the notice of the Royal Humane Society.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on March 14, 2013, 10:14:49 pm
This article seems to have a fair amount of hyperbole!

North Wales Journal - 16 November 1883

The Llandudno Pier Company is now constructing a pavilion which will seat 10,000 people, and in a promenade concert will accommodate 15,000 people. Underneath are swimming and other baths. The monster hall can readily be converted into a concert-hall, to accommodate 500 people. The fact is there is no end to the purposes for which it is constructed. In winter it is to be a winter garden. May the shareholders receive a good dividend for their enterprise.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Fester on March 14, 2013, 10:56:28 pm
Some fantastic articles there Dave.
I love the fact that it cost the princely sum of £130 to have the concession for the Pier Head Cafe.
I reckon I would have liked what they had to offer on the menu back then.

Also, I can just imagine the horror of the 2 people who were swept overboard from the SS St Tudno, and the herioc actions of the Pier Master.
I would have expected that falling overboard at the pier head would have you hitting the ironwork, the cross bars, and be very likely killed or very seriously injured.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Ian on March 15, 2013, 07:15:02 am
"it is understood that steps will be taken to bring it under the notice of the Royal Humane Society." That must be a forerunner of the current construction, which would substitute "to" for "under". Interesting. 
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Ian on March 15, 2013, 07:23:20 am
From the North Wales Journal, 29th April, 1881:


LLANDUDNO. THE NEW COMPANY'S STEAMER.
—The paddle steamer Bonnie Doon, intended for the service between the Mersey, Llandudno, and the Menai Straits, made her maiden trip on Saturday last, having on board a company of influential local merchants, general brokers, and others, to the number of some 200. The start was made precisely at five minutes past one, the steamer for a portion of the journey having the benefit of the tail end of the ebb tide. This advantage, however, was considerably counteracted by the prevalence of a north-west wind, which blew with much force right on the bow of the vessel. The tide being low, the steamer had to make a detour towards the Crosby side, thus adding to the distance of the journey. The Bonnie Doon reached Llandudno at ten minutes to four, the passage occupying two hours and forty-five minutes. Throughout the whole time the weather was but moderately fine, and when within a short distance from the Great Ormes-head rain commenced to descend. This continued until the pier was reached, the passengers landing in a deluging downpour. The larger number of them debarked, after which the steamer proceeded to the Menai Straits. The return journey was commenced under much more favourable circumstances so far as the weather was concerned, but the Bonnie Doon had the disadvantage of contending against a strong current, the sea also being rather" lumpy." On the whole, the passage out and home was successfully performed, the steamer proving herself both a fast sailor and a moderately good sea boat. The journey home from Llandudno occupied two hours and fifty minutes, the Bonnie: Doon reaching the Landing-stage at 9.35. The passengers, for the most part, preferred being in the open air, notwithstanding the strong wind which prevailed, so that the large promenade deck was occupied to the exclusion of the handsomely fitted up cabins. The absence of sea- sick passengers may be taken as a reliable indication of the good sea-going qualities of the vessel, as well as that the trip was thoroughly enioved.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on April 23, 2013, 10:54:46 am
Llandudno Pier in the 1970s, you can see the little Toll Hut where you had to pay to go further down the Pier:

[smg id=3113]
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 14, 2013, 08:45:40 pm
From a very old book!
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on June 04, 2013, 09:28:44 am
Whilst looking for something else, I came across details of a cricket match played in August 1897 between the Wood section and the Strings section of the Llandudno Pier Orchestra, held at the Oval. The Wind section won by 7 wickets.

http://cricketarchive.com/Archive/Scorecards/286/286556.html (http://cricketarchive.com/Archive/Scorecards/286/286556.html)

What halcyon times they must have been.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on July 11, 2013, 09:21:47 am
Just saw this on Facebook, a letter to the Llandudno Pier Company in 1938, quoting them for the supply of magnets to retrieve tools lost into the sea!
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Merddin Emrys on July 11, 2013, 10:04:42 am
Very good, must be lots they could recover today with some large magnets!  :laugh:
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Trojan on July 12, 2013, 09:57:17 pm
 :D You didn't include the blue prints Dave.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on July 25, 2013, 10:51:26 am
Early glass plate negative of the Pier (click on image for full size):

[smg id=3235]
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on September 10, 2013, 08:54:35 am
Great photo of the Pier Entrance in the 1970s, courtesy of Edward Duller on Facebook (click photo to see full size version):

[smg id=3245]
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Merddin Emrys on September 10, 2013, 09:45:58 am
Nice Raleigh Chopper there!  8)
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Trojan on September 10, 2013, 07:23:10 pm
Nice Raleigh Chopper there!  8)

Can't tell if it"s a Mk1 or Mk2.

I had a Mk2 with the T-shift.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Trojan on September 10, 2013, 07:28:25 pm
Looks like Millican & Nesbitt were appearing at the Pier Pavillion. I remember them on Opportunity Knocks in 1973. Couple of ex-miners from Northumberland if I remember correctly.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on September 30, 2013, 11:27:11 am
Just seen this great photo of an early Llandudno Pier - I've not seen it before. The link is to the full size version:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/50/Llandudno_From_The_Pier-Head_(681)_LACMA_M.2008.40.202.1.jpg (http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/50/Llandudno_From_The_Pier-Head_(681)_LACMA_M.2008.40.202.1.jpg)
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Bri Roberts on September 30, 2013, 12:34:46 pm
I wonder where everyone spent a penny at the end of the pier.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Merddin Emrys on September 30, 2013, 12:51:37 pm
A great picture!
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Fester on September 30, 2013, 09:50:55 pm
Fantastic picture, and very early too, as the Bath's Hotel is still in existence.

Look at the pristine state of the iron work and lamp posts.  $good$ $good$
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Bri Roberts on September 30, 2013, 10:01:58 pm
Date?
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on September 30, 2013, 10:07:42 pm
Well, the Pier opened on 1st August 1877. There's no sign of the Pier Extension (opened 1884) or work taking place to build the Pier Pavilion. On the other hand, the woodwork nearest the camera bottom left is showing signs of wear, so the pier obviously isn't brand new...I shall therefore plump for somewhere between 1880-1883.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Bri Roberts on September 30, 2013, 10:27:24 pm
Do you know I think it is 1877 ?

DaveR, I don’t think that is wear you can see.

Look closely at the X supports under the pier.

They look as if they are waiting for their first coat of paint.

Thoughts?
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Fester on September 30, 2013, 11:13:01 pm
It appears that the picture was taken from the viewing balcony, atop what is now the Ocean's Bar.

What a fabulous structure, and how nice to see it in its heyday.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Bellringer on January 23, 2014, 09:26:50 pm
Searching recently through some old photos from an elderly family source, I came across this one of Llandudno Pier or the end of it anyway. It is thought to have been taken possibly late 1920s to early 1930s.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on January 31, 2014, 09:58:44 am
A great old photo of the Beach, Pavilion & Baths Hotel in the 1890s. Click on the photo to see the full size version:

[smg id=3252]
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on February 26, 2014, 10:25:25 am
Great shot of the Pier Entrance & Pavilion in the 1970s. Billy Crockett is appearing at the Pavilion as part of the 'Showtime' cast, Nillican & Nesbitt are the special Sunday evening attraction, and the original Golden Goose Amusements is clearly visible. Click the photo to see the larger version:

[smg id=3245]
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Merddin Emrys on February 26, 2014, 12:41:16 pm
Guess what, I can't see it!  :laugh:
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: snowcap on February 26, 2014, 09:36:08 pm
no good going to specksave ?
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Merddin Emrys on February 26, 2014, 10:26:00 pm
No, all I see with some pics is this...
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Cambrian on February 27, 2014, 07:56:50 am
Bellringer - nice photo.  It looks like the "St Tudno" which entered service in 1926.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: mull on February 27, 2014, 09:13:40 am
Probably taken about 1700 hours.
St Tudno arriving from Menai Bridge on return to Liverpool.
St Seiriol at anchor having arrived about 1630hours on an afternoon excursion from Liverpool. Will return to Liverpool at 1830 hours arriving back at 2100 hours.
Happy memories of 1950/60s , just time for high tea in Paynes Cafe with music from a string trio on stage. Must be getting old.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: OrmeMac on April 21, 2014, 04:19:18 pm
I remember a great (well to a youngster) Ghost Train that went under the Pier Pavilion in the early 1970s. Sadly a few years later it had closed down and was replaced by some radio-controlled boats where you used to get on/off the ghost train cars.

On the subject of the Pier Pavilion I take it if the current 'hole' was cleared it would go down some considerable distance?
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Blongb on April 21, 2014, 07:36:49 pm

On the subject of the Pier Pavilion I take it if the current 'hole' was cleared it would go down some considerable distance?

The old Bathhouse swimming pool is somewhere there at the bottom OM. If you go down any further it might just fill up with salt water once again.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Michael on April 21, 2014, 08:48:37 pm
  Going back I suppose around 75 years (thats a long time) I remember being taken by my Mum and Dad onto the pier and after a short distance there were either steps or a slope downwards on the left and underneath a building. I assume that must have been the Pavilion. I remember looking down the slope and seeing a dark interior lit up by flashing lights and a loud noise. I guess they were arcade machines of some sort with music.
  I also remember my Dad saying to my Mum "I guess that is what hell must look like.".
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Hugo on April 21, 2014, 10:15:10 pm
That sounds more like the Tuscon Amusement Arcade that ran down a slope and maybe a few steps and was underneath the Pavillion.    I spent many happy hours there as a teenager.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on April 22, 2014, 09:37:31 am
I've been down into the Pavilion site a few times. There's about 4-5 foot of debris, that's all. You can see the tiling for the old swimming pool in certain parts of the site, think I stuck photos of them on here at some point in the past.

EDIT: Here's my post with the photos on:
http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,61.msg36882.html#msg36882 (http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,61.msg36882.html#msg36882)
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on April 27, 2014, 08:51:01 pm
A few more photos from 2011 of the depths of the Pavilion site:
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Genie on June 20, 2014, 11:26:35 pm
Hi everyone. I have just joined and to be honest have never been on a forum before, so expect mistakes!
I spent many a happy day in Llandudno on holiday as a child and it is truly a lovely place, full of memories.
The reason I am here is to see if anyone has any photos or memories of the Tuson/Tuscon amusement arcade.
 My Nan used to run/manage it along with her Husband. Studying the family history she might have been called Barbara Morgan or Sutton. Her Husband was called Nick Sutton.
 I only have a vague memory of the place and recall the dodgems at the top end, a change kiosk which I think was on the right hand side and possibly a rifle range.
 Nan was also "Famous" for feeding stray cats in Happy Valley.

Can anybody help?
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on June 24, 2014, 11:06:28 am
Interesting video showing Winston Churchill speaking at the Pavilion in 1948. Lots of shots of the pier, pavilion etc:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCvhx-efRzw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCvhx-efRzw)
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on July 08, 2014, 07:37:21 pm
Hi everybody,   just joined, have been reading all the sections ,very interesting,  I did'nt know where to start , but after reading the above subject I remembered something from my past, so I thought I would ask the question does anybody remember a film made in Llandudno in 1951?.      I recalled my mum and dad telling me that I was in a film, with them walking on the prom.     The film was The Card with Alec guinness, I reviewed this film, no luck, I think we were extra extras, however I did find some old photos taken on the beach and the pier,  which I'll post , hoping I'm not repeating a subject.   Great site,looking forward to your comments.      SteveH.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Bri Roberts on July 08, 2014, 08:08:56 pm
Welcome, SteveH.

I think it may have been 1952 but I suppose you know that is Petula Clark in your photograph.

Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on July 08, 2014, 10:13:08 pm
Hi. Bri.     Thanks for the welcome,      yes I knew it was P.C. ,  the other lady is Glynis Johns , in case there is any confusion over the poster, the film was called The Card  in the U.K. and The Promoter in the U.S.    Regards  SteveH.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: hollins on July 09, 2014, 08:24:38 am
Hope you enjoy this forum SteveH. I wish more new people would post things. It would keep it fresh rather than just the few regulars posting.
I didn't know anything about that film so found it interesting and loved the photos.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on July 09, 2014, 10:11:15 am
Hi Hollins, Thanks for the welcome, and your comments, glad you found them interesting,    Regards SteveH.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on July 09, 2014, 11:03:44 am
Hello All,     Regarding the subject old films, made in Llandudno I noticed that a few others had also been made here, as I am not sure about downloading material, anyone interested, can google search "Films shot in Llandudno" I found it informative.                 Regards  SteveH.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on September 17, 2014, 09:56:31 am
Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - 1st August 1977. Barron Knights are top of the bill at the Pavilion, and the Golden Goose Entertainments is clearly visible to the left.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Merddin Emrys on September 17, 2014, 11:37:21 am
Lots of work going on at The Grand going by the scaffolding! Shame they do not do some work on it now!
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Ian on September 21, 2014, 11:05:05 am
Steve's photo of the pier from the US library of Congress:

Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: jroberts1960 on November 04, 2014, 07:37:59 pm
I have a handful of Llandudno photos to donate? Where is the best place to take them? Jim.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on November 04, 2014, 07:45:01 pm
I have a handful of Llandudno photos to donate? Where is the best place to take them? Jim.

Welcome to the forum Jim, We always like to see old photos, but admin will give you the best advice.  ££$
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: jroberts1960 on November 04, 2014, 07:49:02 pm
Thanks Steve.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Ian on November 05, 2014, 07:22:23 am
Jim: I've sent you a PM with the details you need.  Many thanks for such a generous offer.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on November 05, 2014, 10:49:22 am
I have a handful of Llandudno photos to donate? Where is the best place to take them? Jim.
Very kind of you, Jim. We'll look forward to seeing them.  $good$
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Yorkie on November 05, 2014, 01:50:52 pm
I wonder if we will ever see anything like this again?
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Yorkie on March 21, 2015, 01:55:10 pm
The Pier Pavilion in its hey day!
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on June 02, 2015, 05:39:19 pm
I think this is part of the Alex Munro interview......great video of the pier in the 70s.....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTpicPp8DWU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTpicPp8DWU)
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SDQ on June 02, 2015, 06:41:02 pm
I think this is part of the Alex Munro interview......great video of the pier in the 70s.....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTpicPp8DWU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTpicPp8DWU)


Didn't you notice the name of the person that posted it?
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on June 02, 2015, 06:52:12 pm
I think this is part of the Alex Munro interview......great video of the pier in the 70s.....
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTpicPp8DWU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTpicPp8DWU)
Didn't you notice the name of the person that posted it?

More haste less speed.......signed Richard Cranium....... :(
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Michael on June 02, 2015, 07:21:17 pm
   Just been looking at the dear departed Yorkie's photo of the dear departed Pier Pavilion. Has anyone noticed the prominence of the Camera Obscura?  Looks to be twice the height of what it actually was
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on June 03, 2015, 08:50:54 am
   Just been looking at the dear departed Yorkie's photo of the dear departed Pier Pavilion. Has anyone noticed the prominence of the Camera Obscura?  Looks to be twice the height of what it actually was
The original one was a lot bigger, I think. It was destroyed by fire in the 1970s.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Fester on June 03, 2015, 12:21:37 pm
   Just been looking at the dear departed Yorkie's photo of the dear departed Pier Pavilion. Has anyone noticed the prominence of the Camera Obscura?  Looks to be twice the height of what it actually was

Mike, just so you know, Yorkie is not dead or anything, he is very much active and kicking my backside at Scrabble.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on June 03, 2015, 12:28:40 pm
 :laugh:
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on June 21, 2015, 07:36:35 pm
Another to add to the group from 8/7/2014...........
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on July 21, 2015, 03:40:19 pm
Pavilion and Dodgem Boats...
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Michael on August 01, 2015, 10:15:31 pm
   I wonder if anyone remembers the kiosk where a man sat and cut out (excuse this, my spell checker won't come up with the correct spelling) siluetes of whoever was sat on his chair. And of course paid the fee. The kiosk could well have been the one occupied by our very own Mr. Fester.
  They were brilliant. My first wife had one done of our son, and years and years after I could look at this sil u et and I instantly went back in time better than I could by looking at a photo.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Merddin Emrys on August 01, 2015, 11:02:13 pm
I remember it! I had one done in an oval frame, i put the picture on here years ago.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Fester on August 01, 2015, 11:39:39 pm
Mike, although it was before my time, I know that the Silhouette Man was indeed operating in the Kiosk I currently run.

I know this, because a lady came to visit me about 4 years ago, she was the daughter of that chap.... and she came in to introduce herself, and reminisce!

I also heard that prior to him, some years before there was a Strongman, who used to perform in there, mainly posing his muscles and doing feats of strength.
He should try and lift some of the boxes I get delivered !!   :laugh:
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Gwynant on August 02, 2015, 07:36:06 am
            The gentleman who had the kiosk on Llandudno pier was retired army Captain H.L.Oakley, (1882-1860) and he had a kiosk on the Orme side the pier in the late 50's. He was born in York and served with the Green Howards  with his two brothers during the First World War, and designed one of the famous recruitment posters entitled "Think".
         I can remember standing outside watching him cut out silouhette portraits of the subject who would be sat in a chair inside the kiosk. He specialised in that form of art but also did paintings as I have a small signed oil painting of Conway Castle in my possession.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Gwynant on August 02, 2015, 07:47:56 am
           After reading my last post on Capt. Oakley I realised that I had said that he died in 1860, some 22 years before he was born! This should of course be 1960, and I therefore think that he would have been on the pier in the late 40's and early 50's. He was known as "The man with the Magic Scissors".
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Bosun on August 02, 2015, 08:08:05 am
This may be of interest in respect of Capt Oakley:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Profiles-First-World-War-Silhouettes/dp/0752493523 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Profiles-First-World-War-Silhouettes/dp/0752493523)
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Merddin Emrys on August 02, 2015, 08:41:51 am
That must have been a different man to the one who did mine,  as mine was done when i was about 10 which would be about 1965.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Nemesis on August 02, 2015, 09:02:51 am
   I wonder if anyone remembers the kiosk where a man sat and cut out (excuse this, my spell checker won't come up with the correct spelling) siluetes of whoever was sat on his chair. And of course paid the fee. The kiosk could well have been the one occupied by our very own Mr. Fester.
  They were brilliant. My first wife had one done of our son, and years and years after I could look at this sil u et and I instantly went back in time better than I could by looking at a photo.

I somewhere have one of me done in the mid '50s. I will see if I can lay my hands on it.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Gwynant on August 02, 2015, 09:09:56 am
That must have been a different man to the one who did mine,  as mine was done when i was about 10 which would be about 1965.
               M.E, it says in the link below, (which I hope works as I always seem to have problems posting links!) that Capt. H.L.Oakley operated on the Pier from 1922 until 1958, and was so fond of Llandudno that his ashes were scattered in St. Tudno's churchyard when he died after suffering a stroke in 1960, which seems to suggest that a different artist must have taken over the kiosk after his death.
               http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/wales/entries/45caa633-be53-3672-b01c-55ef83b09e6c (http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/wales/entries/45caa633-be53-3672-b01c-55ef83b09e6c)
                              (or Google "Silouhette Artist on Llandudno Pier")
                     
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Ian on August 02, 2015, 10:43:08 am
Excellent, Gwynant.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: hollins on August 02, 2015, 11:37:03 am
How interesting. I wish I had seen him at work. I hope you find your portrait Nemesis.
I remember seeing them do this in Paris. It is a real skill to work so spontaneously.
It makes me wonder how this sort of "entertainment" would go down now on the pier.
For me personally it would be an attraction but I fear that I maybe classed as an oldie!
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Cambrian on August 02, 2015, 02:54:41 pm
The chap who took over was William Richardson.  He also used to do impromptu silhouettes of leading politicians and entertainers when they went into the Pavilion Theatre for the shows and conferences that were held there.  He used to display these in the window of his kiosk.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Michael on August 02, 2015, 08:14:29 pm
   I feel inferior. Several members have posted "silhouettes" without a blink.
   Its all the fault of these internet spell checkers. Years ago I would have had a dictionary. Now I don't even know where it is
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on August 03, 2015, 12:37:26 pm
The chap who took over was William Richardson.  He also used to do impromptu silhouettes of leading politicians and entertainers when they went into the Pavilion Theatre for the shows and conferences that were held there.  He used to display these in the window of his kiosk.
I remember him and his kiosk well in the 1970s. When did he call it a day?
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Cambrian on August 03, 2015, 02:22:10 pm
Not sure exactly Dave but at a guess around 20 years ago.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories aerial photos
Post by: SteveH on August 09, 2015, 12:33:16 pm
Below is a link to a large collection of aerial photos of the pier and local area.......

http://www.britainfromabove.org.uk/asearch?search=llandudno (http://www.britainfromabove.org.uk/asearch?search=llandudno)
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on March 10, 2016, 02:30:57 pm
Found this old advert for the Pier Bioscope from the Llandudno Advertiser in 1910. It was an early foreruner of a Cinema and was situated in the basement of the Pier Pavilion. The basement was originally built as a swimming pool in 1896 (with water provided direct from the sea) but soon closed due to problems with water quality. Thereafter, it performed a variety of entertainment related roles, including live shows, amusements, round the world ride and, latterly, the Llandudno Dungeon (a horror waxworks museum) from 1984 to 1990.

[smg id=3345]
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on March 10, 2016, 02:37:54 pm
As mentioned above, this clipping from 27th December 1901 gives details of the conversion of the Pavilion's basement from an swimming pool to a hall suitable for entertainment use:

[smg id=3346]
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on March 10, 2016, 02:51:17 pm
From the Llandudno Advertiser, 6th November 1909:

ALTERATIONS AND IMPROVEMENTS AT THE PIER PAVILION.
Considerable structural alterations are being made inside the Pier Pavilion to the gallery, Mr Owen Williams, builder and contractor, having secured the contract, and the work has been already commenced. The alterations are being made to the plans of Mr Arthur Hewitt. Mr Evan Hughes has also in hand the completion of the galley roof contract, the structural ironwork of which is being done by Messrs Edward Wood and Co., Manchester. Mr Griffith Roberts, ironmonger, will fit in the new water main for pier and pavilion, and complete fire appliances throughout are to be provided. The landing stage is being strengthened at an estimated cost of £1000. A further improvement will be the provision of a new tea room for patrons of the Pier Concerts, which is to be located in what is now the Egyptian Hall.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on March 10, 2016, 02:55:50 pm
Llandudno Advertiser, 7th April 1906:

PIER PAVILION REDECORATED & IMPROVED.
The initial concert is always welcomed by the inhabitants and visitors to Llandudno, marking as it does the opening of the holiday season. On Thursday next the first perform-ance will be given, and on Good Friday a sacred concert is announced, when the vocalists will be Madame Effie Thomas, and Mr Robert Burnett. From Saturday the concerts will continue, morning and evening until the end of September. The patrdns of the Pier and Pavilion will be astonished upon first entering the pavilion to note the, varied alterations and improvements that have been effected. The, whole of the immense building has been most tastefully treated with white enamel and gold, giving the hall a light, cool, and airy appearance, which cannot fail to be appreciated, and the upper windows have been glazed in a manner which will have the effect of preventing the glare of the sun. Special attention has been given to the Proscenium, which has also been decorated in white and gold, with hangings of rich plush velvet to harmonise with other parts of the Pavilion. Around the stage a prettily designed fancy iron railing has been placed, enamelled white and backed with red plush velvet. The wide stair cases leading to the gallery have been divided by a rail in the middle, which will make for the additional safety of the audience, when descending the. stairs in large numbers at the end of the concerts. A number of other smaller improvements have been effected, which will assist in the comfort and convenience of the hundreds of thousands of visitors whoi patronise. this magnificent concert hall during the course of the season.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on March 10, 2016, 03:08:53 pm
Reader's Letter from the Llandudno Advertiser, 2nd December 1897. Some things never change! Note: The Victoria Pier was planned to be built roughly opposite to where Venue Cymru is now, it was never built...

TO CORRESPONDENTS. The ADVERTISER is pqblished every Thursday. All communications to the Editor should be addressed to Llewelyn Chambers, Llewelyn Street. Whatever is intended for insertion must be authenticated by the name and address of the writer, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of good faith, and should always be written legibly with ink, and on one side of the paper only. We cannot undertake to return rejected communications (We do not hold ourselves responsible for any opinion expressed by our correspondents.) ).

THE LLANDUDNO VICTORIA PIER.

To the Editor.

Sir, The reference to the above in your contemporary last week deserves some notice. Councillor Thomas Owen may be only concerned for existing attractions and conservatively jealous of the welfare of Llandudno; he is apparently undesirous of providing or encouraging another source of attraction for visitors to our charming town.

Disgusted's suggestion that the magnificent pavilion would abut or be placed on the Promenade is absolutely misleading, and it is to be regretted that he should not have sought authentic information upon the subject before launching a piratical craft against the project in question. The. Pavilion will be sitl at least 180 feet seawards from the Promenade and will face the present one in an oblong shape. It is moonshine to prate about "indignation meetings" and Craig-y-don ratepayers' opposition; the latter welcome the Pavilion and Pier with open arms, recognising them as health and pleasure resorts which cannot fail to conduce to the welfare of themselves and those who visit their houses.

The progressive element in the town is not and has not been asleep it is the "Little Englander" section which is oppressed with nightmares, and views with alarm anything that tends to the expansion of Llandudno. The Council have no jurisdiction over the work or plans, the Board of Trade exempted the scheme from their supervision in any way, and it is purely an act of courtesy on the part of the promoters to place any of their plans, etc., before the Council. There has not been any keeping back" or "hoodwinking" of the Council or Ratepayers. Those of your readers who remember the introduction of the L. & N. W. Railway, the present Pier, the asphalting of the Promenade and footpaths/and other public benefits, will remember hot the faddists and cranks fought against the. Is there any resident or visitor but what approves of their presence in Llandudno ? No, sir The antagonists of the Victoria Pier and Pavilion may as well cease their vain Attempts to frustrate or delay the advent of the work. It is coming to stay, sir and "will be here long arise to confound the gloomy predictions of those who are apparently averse to the development and attractiveness of Llandudno.

I am in a position to state that the New Victoria Pier and Pavilion will be second to none in Great Britain, if not on earth, and will stand proudly forth as distinctive evidence of the determination of Llandudno men not to leave our town behind in the race for popular favour, but to consolidate and maintain its position in the forefront as the Premier Health Resort of the United Kingdom.

Yours, F. J. SARSON.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Lyndylou on March 10, 2016, 04:22:29 pm
Great find, well done        very interesting reading.    $good$
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Fester on March 10, 2016, 05:11:08 pm
Ha! A sideswipe at Victorian 'NIMBY's'
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on March 11, 2016, 09:00:41 am
Ha! A sideswipe at Victorian 'NIMBY's'
I always think it was a shame that the Victoria Pier & Pavilion was never built, it would have looked great in the centre of the Promenade.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Fester on March 11, 2016, 10:52:47 pm
I've seen the original designs for it, in that famous book about Llandudno, (which name escapes me)... it looked like it would have been a very majestic structure,  with a 2000 seat theatre jutting out to the side.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: hkjroberts on March 18, 2016, 03:11:58 pm
Hi, this is a comment in answer to member rsj46 who posted about Blackfriars on the promenade in Llandudno, which is now part of Cae Mor and next to the Four Oaks.

My grandparents and my Uncle Brian Latham are the people you refer to.  My uncle is now 92 and has just driven the length of the country - an amazing man.  I would love to see your cinefilm. Please get in touch.
Title: Re: Llandudno pier - payment onto it
Post by: hkjroberts on March 19, 2016, 09:42:30 pm
Being an outsider, born Stoke on Trent and now in Derby I have loved visiting Llandudno again in the last two years with the next 2 generations. I have cinefilm from my childhood holidays including the bumper/dodgem boats on the pier. Judging from my appalling curly hair and nappied bum I guess the films are from the late 1940s. Does anyone remember Blackfriars hotel somewhere along the Llandudno seafront. My father became friends with the owners and went climbing with the owners son. They would start out early (when I started to wake up and cry in my cot apparently).
According to my father, the owner and his son, on holiday, got tired of sitting on the beach and went for a walk. Sometime later they returned to the rest of the family only to announce they had, quite unplanned, attended an auction and bought the Blackfriars hotel!

I read this piece above, and recognise this as my family.  My Mum and Dad are celebrating their Diamond wedding anniversary on 21st April, next month, and my Mum grew up in Blackfriars (now Cae Mor), the man who went climbing with this man's father would be my uncle and I would love to buy a copy of the cinefilm mentioned as a gift for my parents so please get in touch as we only have 4 weeks until their party.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on May 19, 2016, 11:39:26 am
Here's an interesting snippet of an old Pier Photo. It's dated as 1860 but that can't be correct as the present pier wasn't built until 1877. There's also no sign of the Pier Pavilion (1886), so a date of circa 1880 would seem fair?
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Michael on May 19, 2016, 08:56:54 pm
  I've expanded this a bit. I cannot be sure, but, but ---- is that Fester outside the first kiosk?
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Fester on May 19, 2016, 11:56:35 pm
  I've expanded this a bit. I cannot be sure, but, but ---- is that Fester outside the first kiosk?
Yes Mike!  It was 9am on Thursday 8th January 1881,  and I was open for business, and I will be there for the next 1000 years too!
Title: Re: Pier silouettes
Post by: Clivemd on November 17, 2016, 12:44:12 am
Dave Apologies I think I deleted your original post about the Pier sketch artist, sorry.
So I have cut and pasted it back above my post. Read Below.

DaveR
Re: Pier silouettes
« Reply #7 on: November 15, 2010, 08:57:40 AM »
I always recall the name Richardson as doing the Silhouettes?

"In 1960 William Richardson left his native Potteries for Llandudno when he was 37 and became a star tourist attraction in his adopted town.

The former student of Burslem School of Art made his name doing quick-sketch portraits of visitors in his tiny studio on the pier, completing a charcoal drawing in 15 minutes.

When I met him nearly 20 years ago, William told me he'd drawn around 30,000 people and couldn't remember one dissatisfied customer in more than 30 years.

His sitters included two Prime Ministers, Harold Wilson and Margaret Thatcher. Both were in Llandudno in the days when party conferences were held at the resort.

William recalled another visitor who told him she'd been recommended to go to him by her neighbour – in Peru!"

You are not allowed to view links.




Clive Massey
(Tel and Address removed by admin)

17 November 2016

Dear Sirs,
DaveR, Fester, Merddin Emryss

The Late William Richardson – Sketch Artist Llandudno Pier

I’m currently researching the History of the late William Richardson, Sketch Artist from the Llandudno, Colwyn Bay & Conwy area who sadly passed away aged 93 in March 2016.

I’ll explain my particular interest in him in a moment but firstly I’m having a little trouble navigating around the site / responding to entries such as you 3 contributors. So please forgive me if I’ve broken any protocols.

Are you or any of the local parishioners aware that William Richardson painted the large Artwork ‘Aberfan Calvery’ depicting the tragedy of the 116 children that lost their lives in the 1966 disaster. I make this connection, as back in early 1966, I moved into a house in Windermere Road, Clayton, Newcastle under Lyme, Staffordshire. The house was directly opposite a small Co-operative Supermarket which was managed by a Welshman William Richardson. I spoke with him often and found him to be a quiet reserved man.

Not long after the Aberfan disaster Mr Richardson left this employ & moved on elsewhere. In 1967 a local newspaper printed a short article showing a photograph of Mr Richardson, Clayton Co-op Manager standing in front of the large painting (approx. 7 feet x 4 feet). The article stated that Mr Richardson had in 1967 contacted the relatives of the deceased children explaining that he wished to painted a memorial of the children and asked for copies of photographs, details of hair colour etc. The article stated that the work of art was hanging in one of the Aberfan churches. I immediately recognised him. My understanding is that the picture has the 116 children painted along the outstretched arms & body outline of Christ and is catalogued as ‘Aberfan Calvary.’


The 50th Anniversary of this dreadful event past recently and as I’d often wondered what had happened to both the Artist and picture I contacted some of the Churches in the Aberfan & Merthyr area but no-one seemed to know very much about the subject.

I eventually spoke with the Local authority Archives at Cyfartha Castle Museum, Art Gallery & Archives, Cyfarthfa Park, Brecon Rd, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8RE. To my surprise and understanding I learned that William Richardson painting had never been on display in any of the area churches. It seems that decision makers and possible the relatives of the lost souls decided that the painting was ‘Too Direct’ given the sensitivity of the subject.

The painting is housed in the Archives of the Cyfartha Park facility and can be viewed by any interested person free of charge by a simple request to the Archivist. The Lady Archivist explained that during the course of a year quite a number of people visit from across the globe asking to see the painting. The Staff are more than happy to arrange a viewing. She further stated that if and when anyone asked about the Author William Richardson they had no knowledge of him, current whereabouts and details of any other artworks by him.

My searches on Google brought up the link that connected everything together i.e. comments on the Three Towns Forum website by, DaveR, Fester & Merddin Emryss.

PURPOSE OF RESEARCH

I am satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that your Pier Sketch Artist was rather more than just a sketch artist but seemingly a man of hidden, kindness, love and skill. He was the man who created the Aberfan painting.

During the course of my research I’ve been in contact with dozens of people from both the Merthyr & North Wales Llandudno areas, all of whom have been excited and happy to help.

The purpose of this work is to have sufficient information to place in the Archives at Merthyr & Llandudno area archives. However we are lacking in a few bits and pieces that would enhance William Richardson’s persona and respect for what he really was.


I still have further enquiries to make. Earlt in 2017 I intend to travel to Merthyr to view the painting.

In a perfect world it would be marvellous if we could locate a photograph of him (to be copied), Photographic copy of any piece of artwork created by him i.e. copy of any sketch he made whilst working on the pier.

I’m happy to meet the cost of copying any photos, documents etc.

The smallest bit of info could be very useful.

Thanks for reading and hope someone can respond positively.


Clive Massey.

Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Nemesis on February 01, 2017, 02:14:26 pm
   I wonder if anyone remembers the kiosk where a man sat and cut out (excuse this, my spell checker won't come up with the correct spelling) siluetes of whoever was sat on his chair. And of course paid the fee. The kiosk could well have been the one occupied by our very own Mr. Fester.
  They were brilliant. My first wife had one done of our son, and years and years after I could look at this sil u et and I instantly went back in time better than I could by looking at a photo.

I somewhere have one of me done in the mid '50s. I will see if I can lay my hands on it.

I finally did lay my hands on the thing ! So here it is ! :laugh:
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Fester on February 01, 2017, 03:40:45 pm
Yes!  Nemesis, that was indeed created in my very own kiosk, by a very talented person.
Thanks for posting
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Nemesis on February 01, 2017, 06:19:14 pm
Had to go under the roof to find a frame for a lovely letter which we received yesterday from Ken Dodd !
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: snowcap on February 02, 2017, 10:14:14 pm
not changed much Nem.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on March 17, 2017, 01:09:02 pm
Came across this recently dont know if it is a repeat.....
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on September 07, 2017, 09:27:11 am
This shot, from 1983, is how i remember the old Pavilion & Per Entrance in my childhood. Click image for larger version.

[smg id=3369]
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on September 12, 2017, 01:41:09 pm
Not that old a photo, this shows the waves touching the underside of the Pier back on 31/03/2010:
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DaveR on September 27, 2017, 08:29:29 am
Nice shot of the Pavilion in the 1980s - you don't often see this side of the building in photos:
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on February 05, 2018, 12:42:50 pm
Llandudno’s long and sometimes unlikely past has been revealed in a book by local historian John Lawson-Reay, chairman of the Llandudno and Colwyn Bay Historic Society.

Article and photos.....

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/secret-llandudno-history-unknown-facts-14239141 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/secret-llandudno-history-unknown-facts-14239141)

Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: ThePopman on April 21, 2018, 06:45:15 pm
To Clive, who was researching the artist William Richardson. I am his nephew.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Fester on August 16, 2018, 09:47:40 pm
Look at the beautiful clothing and buildings in this unspoilt era...
Title: Re: Llandudno.......... Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on June 03, 2019, 09:39:05 am
These pictures of Llandudno in all its glory are bound to make you feel nostalgic
Step back in time with these vintage photos of the North Wales seaside town.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gallery/pictures-llandudno-glory-bound-make-16358135 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gallery/pictures-llandudno-glory-bound-make-16358135)
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Ian on June 03, 2019, 12:43:21 pm
On the photo of the earliest land train it says this:

"Plans for land trains in Llandudno, like this one pictured in February 1991, ran out of steam, but in later years a similar venture seems to be more successful"

Actually, it was the Police who refused it permission to go along Gloddaeth Avenue, thus dooming the project from the outset. Strangely, they changed their mind with the subsequent application.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on June 03, 2019, 01:23:03 pm
At the moment I am thinking of dooming the project, for years the land train rang a bell to get attention, slightly annoying, but you get used to it, now I believe they are using the horn of the vehicle, numerous times throughout the day   $angry$   bring back the bell $good$
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Blongb on June 04, 2019, 11:59:53 am
At the moment I am thinking of dooming the project, for years the land train rang a bell to get attention, slightly annoying, but you get used to it, now I believe they are using the horn of the vehicle, numerous times throughout the day   $angry$   bring back the bell $good$

It is only the driver of the Blue train that insists on tooting his horn at every opportunity, so I walked over and had a quiet word and things have now got a lot better.  clappinghappy
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on June 04, 2019, 02:28:54 pm
At the moment I am thinking of dooming the project, for years the land train rang a bell to get attention, slightly annoying, but you get used to it, now I believe they are using the horn of the vehicle, numerous times throughout the day   $angry$   bring back the bell $good$
It is only the driver of the Blue train that insists on tooting his horn at every opportunity, so I walked over and had a quiet word and things have now got a lot better.  clappinghappy

Many thanks B.,   &well&    A quiet word was probably best, it was beginning to get very annoying, I have been indoors today with the rain, and have not heard anything,      so fingers crossed.
Title: Re: Llandudno and Pier & Pavilion - Summer 2016
Post by: SteveH on August 16, 2019, 01:34:32 pm
Not times past .... Yet          A pleasant collection of photos in slide show form, of the Llandudno area over the summer of 2016.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PqXFiq1fKo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PqXFiq1fKo)
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on October 02, 2019, 01:31:51 pm
Have received an offer this morning in the post, a local firm I think ? which I thought worth sharing .............

"Old Postcards of Llandudno Calendar.
About the Old Postcards of Llandudno Calendars
What size are they? The calendars are A4 in size, with 13 leaves (one per month plus a cover). They are wire-bound at the top with a hanging loop and are supplied in a protective cellophane sleeve.

Are they bilingual? Yes. Months, days of the week and public holidays are in English and Welsh.

Can I buy the calendars in shops? No, these calendars are only available through this website or by ordering via telephone (01492 818618) or via email.

When will my calendar(s) be delivered? Orders will be sent out the week beginning 21 October 2019. If you live within the LL30 postcode, we will be in touch before that date to offer you a delivery day. Otherwise, Royal Mail's estimated delivery times are 1-2 working days for UK, 3-5 working days for Europe and 6-7 working days for the rest of the world.

I have some other questions... Please feel free to get in touch via email or leave a message on our enquiry line, 01492 818618, and we will be in touch as quickly as possible.  "                  http://www.opolc.co.uk/ (http://www.opolc.co.uk/)
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on December 07, 2019, 10:07:31 am
An eagle eyed fan noticed this 1853 picture in a recent episode of Coronation St.     https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/coronation-streets-secret-nod-llandudno-17377994 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/coronation-streets-secret-nod-llandudno-17377994)

1853 print of Llandudno which appeared in Monday Nights Coronation Street
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Bri Roberts on December 07, 2019, 02:21:59 pm
1853?

This was a Llandudno in 1852.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on December 07, 2019, 03:02:08 pm
Quite a difference, Bri.I had another look at the artist, and found that the picture is already in the Forum's gallery, with a date of 1860,
(which can be enlarged for closer detail.)   The lady who spotted the picture, is also questioning the date.
Posted by     DaveR   September 28, 2004, 03:16:22 PM  http://www.threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=media;sa=item;in=653 (http://www.threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=media;sa=item;in=653)
Width × Height   900 × 664
Filesize   245 KB
Filename   Llandudno Promenade in 1860 Colour.jpg






Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Bri Roberts on December 07, 2019, 05:28:56 pm
Thank you, SteveH.

The Baths Hotel over on the right did not open until 1855.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on December 08, 2019, 10:11:29 am
Bri, looking for info. on Llandudno 1850's I found another Forum reference from 2011, about the 1851 census, which might bring back memories.
http://www.threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,1290.0.html (http://www.threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,1290.0.html)
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Rolli on July 12, 2020, 11:42:47 am
Clive Massey and the person posting last as Qilliam Richardson's Nephew.... I Hope this message connects with you both. My late Mother was his Cousin. I met him a great deal in the 70's whilst working in Llandudno and only knew of his relationship to my family then. Maybe an opportunity to chat via e mail.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Ianc2003 on October 31, 2020, 12:36:53 pm
I am posting as a new user in the hope that someone will recognise any of the people in this picture, taken on the pier with presumably the rest of the pier staff at that time. the gentleman in the front row second from right is possibly my wife’s grandfather John Owen who was the second mate of the pier. Or assistant pier master. He could be approx 40 in the picture meaning the picture was 1910-1920. Does anyone know who any of the other people could be or the date of the picture
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on October 31, 2020, 12:47:16 pm
I am posting as a new user in the hope that someone will recognise any of the people in this picture, taken on the pier with presumably the rest of the pier staff at that time. the gentleman in the front row second from right is possibly my wife’s grandfather John Owen who was the second mate of the pier. Or assistant pier master. He could be approx 40 in the picture meaning the picture was 1910-1920. Does anyone know who any of the other people could be or the date of the picture
Welcome, best of luck with your search.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Helig on October 31, 2020, 05:24:10 pm
I don't know if any of the local historians would know the identity of these people.

The only thing that occurred to me was whether you had found your wife's grandfather in the 1911 census? Do you know where he lived then? This would show his occupation at that time. It might be possible to do a search of the 1911 census to find people who worked on the pier. The 1921 census will be out soon and that is another possibility to help in solving this query.

Helig
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DVT on October 31, 2020, 07:56:27 pm
Out of curiosity I logged into Findmypast.com and searched the 1911 census for John Owen, guessed date of birth 1875 +/5 years, and entered Llandudno as a keyword.

Not as many John Owens as I expected and hit the jackpot with the second one!

Living at Glyn Cottage, Old Road, Llandudno.
John Owen, age 34, born 1877 Llandudno, occupation Second Mate on Llandudno Pier.
Ellen Owen, age 27, born 1884 Menai Bridge, his wife.
They had been married 6 years but no children at that time.
The house is shown as having three rooms.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Ianc2003 on November 02, 2020, 11:36:35 am
Thanks for the replies, I have the information from the genealogy sites. Was hoping someone may know other people working on the pier. Not sure how to search for that in the census.  I also understand that the 1921 census will not be available online until January 2022, which is disappointing.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: DVT on November 02, 2020, 01:49:58 pm
When I looked up the 1911 census it did show a scan of the original document in the Mr Owen's hand-writing.  Scrolling each way takes you to neighbouring houses. and I did look at a few.  Couldn't find any others that gave their employer as Llandudno Pier, but did find a man and his son who were employed by Llandudno Tramway.  Obviously to scroll through all the Llandudno files would take some time, but could be done.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Hugo on November 02, 2020, 04:42:20 pm
DVT,  at the Conwy Archives they have Street Indexes that list the name and occupation of a person living at an address.  They are listed alphabetically but  only one person from the household is listed and that person is usually the breadwinner.
They have those records for the following years 1911,  1914,  1922, 1926, 1929 and 1939
Those people from the Pier are probably listed there  but it would be hard to put a name to a face, hopefully there are local people out there that may be able to help
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Helig on November 03, 2020, 02:41:21 pm
It may be worthwhile asking the North Wales Weekly News to publish that photo in the hope someone may recognise a person it it. Would there be any records in existence for the company, or concern, that ran the Pier in those days? They may contain information on employees.

Helig.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Helig on November 04, 2020, 10:20:05 am
I have looked at some of the genealogy surrounding John Owen. When he married Ellen Owen in 1904 his occupation was shown as a Pierman. This has his father as John Owen (deceased) and his occupation was given as Pierman. John Owen's (junior) death certificate in 1931 shows he was a Pier Attendant. This family has very close connections over a long period of time with Llandudno Pier and I would be surprised if there was nothing documented about them.

The 1911 Llandudno census has John Roberts, age 53 Pier Master. He is married and living in Ash Grove, Arfon Ave, Llandudno. He shows that he works for the Pier Company.

There is also William Hugh Owen, age 32, a Pier Labourer, married but a Lodger in Trefriw House, Lloyd St, Llandudno.

Thomas Barrow, age 52, married, Pier Porter and Chimney Sweep, living in Balmoral, Trinity Square, Llandudno. Thomas appears to be self employed.

Next is William Jones, age 44, married, Pier Man (general) employed by Pier Company. He is living in Stone Grove, Taliesin St, Llandudno.

Not a worker on the pier but interesting to note that William Frederick Mason, age 62, born Manchester and living at Gogarth Abbey, Llandudno, shows he is a Director of limited liability companies engaged in Lead Mining, Pier Company, Rubber Machinery and General Engineering.

This may give you a clue as to the other people in the photo.

Helig
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on November 05, 2020, 09:45:48 am
Memory lane - your free new online picture archive filled with photos of North Wales
Take a trip into the past and help preserve it for future generations

A free new online picture archive from the owners of the Daily Post and North Wales Live is being launched today.

The site - called Memorylane.co.uk -   https://www.memorylane.co.uk/ (https://www.memorylane.co.uk/)   allows people to celebrate, explore and share historical moments in their little corner of the world through fascinating pictures taken through the years.

The launch comes as a YouGov survey carried out for Memory Lane suggests that the past is in danger of being lost because 80% of British people haven’t digitised all their photos.

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/nostalgia/memory-lane-your-free-new-19216624 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/nostalgia/memory-lane-your-free-new-19216624)
.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: hollins on January 11, 2021, 09:35:03 am
Some interesting photos in this article.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/in-pictures-55537454 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/in-pictures-55537454)
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Hugo on January 11, 2021, 10:13:24 am
The guy in the second photo by himself on the Pier reminds we of Alfie Price who worked for my next door  neighbour Sam Owen
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Nemesis on January 11, 2021, 11:53:02 am
The position of the walls and the shelter on the first photo have got me muddled. Any suggestions as to just where it is?
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: norman08 on January 11, 2021, 12:52:54 pm
Yes Hugo that is Alfie Price on the pier,   The pic of the two people in the shelter is colwyn bay.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Hugo on January 11, 2021, 02:34:13 pm
Thanks Norman    $good$       Sam Owen had a horse and cart for his business and he used to stable his horse in his back garden.   My Dad used to borrow the horse now and again to keep the grass short.
If my memory is correct Alfie used to walk in front of the cart holding the horse's reins and sometimes sat alongside old Sam
The good old days
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Nemesis on January 11, 2021, 02:41:56 pm
Yes Hugo that is Alfie Price on the pier,   The pic of the two people in the shelter is colwyn bay.

That explains a lot thank you.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: norman08 on January 11, 2021, 02:58:35 pm
Hugo someone put a pic up of the horse in the garden, some youngster on its back. 😂
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Hugo on January 11, 2021, 03:25:58 pm
Are you able to post the picture of the horse on here Norman?
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on February 14, 2021, 10:33:31 am
Where we lived: Old photos of North Wales from the archive     https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gallery/lived-old-photos-north-wales-19834662 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gallery/lived-old-photos-north-wales-19834662)

photo 1977
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: shnugs on February 15, 2021, 10:38:56 am
This was in The Daily post yesterday. That's Me with the Adidas Bag Heading for the Goose before going to work in the cafe at end of pier 13 years old. 
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on February 15, 2021, 11:00:09 am
This was in The Daily post yesterday. That's Me with the Adidas Bag Heading for the Goose before going to work in the cafe at end of pier 13 years old. 
Nice one     $good$
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Hugo on February 15, 2021, 11:46:06 am
This was in The Daily post yesterday. That's Me with the Adidas Bag Heading for the Goose before going to work in the cafe at end of pier 13 years old.

Just as a matter of interest who was the manager in that cafe when you were working there?       My Mother worked there but it was probably before your time
I've attached a photo of the staff when my mother worked there but I don't know the date but would guess at the early 1960's
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: shnugs on February 21, 2021, 01:32:39 pm
Hi Hugo, Yes before me I am afraid. The manager was based in the Pavilion office a small door on the right a tall well dressed man wish I could remember his name I think John something. I was working all over the pier from the mid 70s until leaving school. I always say that the manager letting me stand on that stage as a child (my mum worked there) was the reason I am a musician now and My Godfather Alex Munro must be in the blood . Anyway I enjoyed my time on the pier, loved the smell of the little bait shop, the donuts and starting the brews at the end for the fishing fraternity and busy times with the I:O.M ferry. Good times.
Stay safe .
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Hugo on February 21, 2021, 02:57:46 pm
Hi Shnugs,   my mother worked at two cafes on the pier.   The first one I think was called the Dolphin Cafe and it's entrance was by Happy Valley Road, then she went to work on the one at the end of the pier.
Denis  John Williams was the manager of both cafes and mum  liked working for him

His son also of the same name but called Denis kindly sent me this photo of his father who is the tall chap on the left of the photo holding what may be a Tope
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: shnugs on February 21, 2021, 03:16:04 pm
Wow Yes that is him a little younger however yes, such a kind man his son should be proud. I worked in the Dolphin Bar too in the restaurant and went where I was told to work along the pier. He took me up to the walkway above the stage and looked down from such a height. The pier has a connection with lots I think, My father worked on the Trams, the Orme coach tours when they parked by the pier and mum worked as a cleaner along the pier. I used to work a lot of summer jobs around the town. there was a man Name Mr Quinn a local Arthur Daley who owned so many businesses in the town and the Esplanade hotel where my Gran worked as a cook. Thanks for the Photo Hugo.. I wish you well.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Hugo on February 21, 2021, 04:32:25 pm
Thank you very much Shrugs, you're very welcome and all the best to you too.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Cambrian on February 21, 2021, 06:33:51 pm
shnugs,  At that time, the Esplanade would have been owned by Charlie Payne who also had several businesses in the area. The family firm was J E Payne (Caterers) Ltd and went into liquidation around 1975.  Fortunately for Charlie, the hotel seemed to be in his own name not the company's, and he was able to keep on running it until his death a few years ago. Another missed local character.

I remember Mr Quinn too.  He used to have a pitch outside the coffee centre by Marks and traded from the back of his car.  Everyone wondered how he was able to park there all day with impunity!
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: shnugs on February 24, 2021, 04:32:01 pm
Cambrian Thanks for that I remember the Paynes  don't know why i thought the esplanade though, ahh i know why my sister had her wedding reception there must be getting old,  Quinn Had a Guest house between the old doctors surgery on the corner by the cenotaph and the Carlton, he also had a Gift shop by bog island and a very dodgy mail order business. at one time he ran the little cafe upstairs above what i believe is now the town house. He was always polite and I worked in that little café too and gift shop my god that sold some crap but you know tourists, he had me gluing little rocks on big rocks from the beach and painting them to look like frogs. I believe he had a son but that's another story .
Anyway thanks for your time.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on February 04, 2022, 09:39:00 am
THIS week’s nostalgia feature looks at the history of the Llandudno Pier Pavilion, which may soon finally have new life breathed into it after lying dormant for more than a quarter of a century.

Work started on the pavilion in 1881, and it was expected to be open for business in the spring of 1884, only for a severe storm that January to badly damage the roof.

The building was eventually used on June 7 for a programme to raise funds for the Llandudno Sanatorium and Cottage Hospital, a public relations exercise, and in August 1884, it hosted comic actor J. L. Toole.



For the first 40 years, orchestra recitals and concerts were its main shows, though in 1936, the pavilion would feature the main variety shows and musicals.

Pavlion headliners from the ‘variety years’ included Anna Pavlova, Vera Lynn, Tommy Trinder, and The Spinners.

Various changes in ownership and ventures did not succeed, audiences were falling and the building had become run down by the time it closed in 1984.

In 1993, though, plans were drawn up to restore the building as a development including an element of theatre along with shops, restaurants and exhibition and conference space.

But the Grade II Listed building was the victim of an arson attack in February 1994, destroying it.

After more than 25 years of disuse, though, the site was bought in late 2021 by the Tir Prince Leisure Group, which called it “the jewel in the crown of North Wales tourism” and announced plans to develop it.              ref pioneer

gallery https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19897739.nostalgia-story-north-wales-pier-pavilion-may-soon-resurrected/?ref=rss&IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4#gallery2 (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19897739.nostalgia-story-north-wales-pier-pavilion-may-soon-resurrected/?ref=rss&IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4#gallery2)
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on April 24, 2022, 10:04:46 am
MEMORIES
Nostalgia: Celebrating 145 years of Llandudno Pier

LLANDUDNO Pier, stretching for 700 metres, is the longest in Wales, and among the most iconic sites in the region.

The Pier had its origins in a much shorter, wooden pier erected in 1858 as part of the planned St George’s Harbour.

The wooden pier was used mainly for export of limestone from quarries in the nearby Happy Valley.

After becoming severely damaged in the Royal Charter Storm of October 25, 1859, which caused the loss of 223 ships and 800 people in British coastal waters, the Pier could only be used by steam ships in high tide.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20084596.nostalgia-celebrating-145-years-llandudno-pier/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589 (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20084596.nostalgia-celebrating-145-years-llandudno-pier/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589)
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on May 14, 2022, 09:37:41 am
Pier Head Pavilion, Llandudno   Written by John Lawson-Reay

The new Pier opened to public in  August 1877. A temporary bandstand was built at the Pier Head, although a Pavilion had always been planned for the site.

Tyler’s Band – seven bandsmen and women wearing a uniform of trousers, frock coats and pill box hats, was engaged to entertain the crowds. In that first 1877-78 season, over thirty thousand visitors listened to selections which were ‘happily chosen and artistically executed’ (North Wales Chronicle,  August 3 1878)....................

cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/john-lawson-reay-pier-head-pavilion-llandudno/ (https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/john-lawson-reay-pier-head-pavilion-llandudno/)

Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - excursion steamer St Tudno
Post by: SteveH on May 23, 2022, 10:13:46 am
Recalling halcyon days of setting sail with excursion steamer St Tudno

THIS week’s Nostalgia looks back at St Tudno, the excursion steamer that became a regular feature of the North Wales coastline.

https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/resources/images/13801116.jpg?type=article-full

Taking thousands of passengers with each trip, the vessel was part of the fleet of the Liverpool and North Wales Steamship Company, a pleasure cruise company founded in 1890.

Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: mull on May 23, 2022, 11:33:14 am
Interesting photos bringing back many happy memories.

Top photo is St Tudno departing Llandudno Pier. Unusual as unless it was right on High tide it was usual to go astern off the pier, also notice ensign is at Half Mast.

Lower photo at Liverpool Landing Stage. North Wales steamer is St Seiriol and not St Tudno, ahead is Isle of Man ferry King Orry another regular visitor to Llandudno after Liverpool and North Wales S S CO  when out of business.

Happy Days !
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Ian on May 23, 2022, 04:26:00 pm
I thought that was Liverpool Landing stage.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: SteveH on June 05, 2022, 09:35:33 am
Tour North Wales' piers through time with these fascinating photos
From Llandudno to Bangor and Colwyn Bay - we have some impressive tourist destinations

photo gallery    https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/nostalgia/gallery/tour-north-wales-piers-through-24110363

Work being carried out the pier in the seaside resort of Llandudno, North Wales. December 6, 1990
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Ian on June 05, 2022, 12:11:38 pm
The DP photos are fascinating, Steve. I've managed to rescue all the original photos from the site and I suspect it only needs a link fixing, and they'll all display again.
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Punch and Judy
Post by: SteveH on August 18, 2022, 10:30:22 am
The article below mentions .........  Joe Burns, from Brighton, is joined by Mark Poulton in Weymouth, Dorset, and Jason Codman in Llandudno, Wales, as the last three full time beach performers.

Heatwave sparks Punch and Judy revival

THE recent heatwaves have sparked a revival of Punch and Judy after verbal abuse threatened to end the shows for good.

The puppet show dates back to 16th century Italy, but gained popularity at British seaside resorts.

Professional Punch and Judy performer Joe Burns, from Brighton, said the seaside institution was under threat with only a few full-time shows left, with performers experiencing verbal attacks.

cont https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/20668432.heatwave-sparks-punch-judy-revival-verbal-abuse-shows/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: Llandudno Pier & Pavilion - Old Photos & Memories
Post by: Ian on August 18, 2022, 05:38:34 pm
It originated with commedia dell'arte.