South Shore’s past comes alive in new community exhibition
The South Shore Stories exhibition has officially opened at the Blackpool Enterprise Centre, inviting residents and visitors to step back in time and celebrate the people, places and memories that have helped shaped one of Blackpool’s most loved communities.
The project, led by the Business Growth Team at Blackpool Council, has resulted in photographs, keepsakes and personal stories being shared by local people over recent months, capturing everything from family holidays and guest houses to shopping trips, seaside attractions and memories of the former Lido Baths.
Now brought together in a public exhibition, those memories offer a fascinating snapshot into the history of South Shore through the eyes of the people who know it best.
The exhibition also serves as a thank you to everyone who contributed their memories, photographs and stories. From residents and local businesses to families with long-standing ties to South Shore, the community response has helped highlight the sense of community and vibrancy that has always been part of this much-loved area.
Elaine Smith MBE, Chairman of the Blackpool Civic Trust
In addition to the exhibition some of the collected memories have been published into a special commemorative book celebrating South Shore’s heritage and identity for future generations to enjoy. The book also features a foreword by Elaine Smith MBE, Chairman of the Blackpool Civic Trust, who moved to Blackpool aged 10 in 1945 and dedicated much of her adult life to preserving the town’s heritage. In her foreword, Elaine describes South Shore as “a place full of memories, character and community spirit that deserves to be celebrated and remembered.”
Angela Kershaw, Blackpool Council’s Head of Business Growth, said the exhibition has particular meaning for her personally. “Growing up in our family guest house in South Shore gave me a real appreciation of how important local businesses are to the character and spirit of this area,” she said. “It feels incredibly special to now be working here and helping support the businesses and communities that continue to keep South Shore vibrant and thriving.”
Reflecting on the exhibition launch, Angela added “Seeing these stories brought together in the exhibition is a wonderful reminder of the pride, resilience and sense of belonging that has always existed here, with support from the Shared Prosperity Fund helping bring projects like this to life.”
Steve Fairclough, one of the South Shore Stories creatives, said it had been lovely to see the project come full circle since collecting memories from residents and businesses across the area.
“We’d really like to thank everybody who took the time to share their stories, photographs and memories with us,” he said. “We're so grateful for all the contributions which have been key to bringing the book and the exhibition together. It’s wonderful to see the exhibition open and for the community to experience and celebrate the people, history and spirit that make South Shore so special.”
Steve Fairclough and Molly Bland, Creatives of the South Shore Stories
The exhibition is now open to the public from 18th May to September 2026, with free entry, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, at the Blackpool Enterprise Centre, Lytham Road, Blackpool, FY4 1EW.
Visitors are encouraged to pop in, explore the displays and discover the memories and stories that make South Shore unique. The accompanying South Shore Stories commemorative book is also available to purchase onsite.
We look forward to seeing you soon. If you have any questions, get in touch with our team.
