I’m always saying Blackpool can make more of its heritage. The modern and bright resort has its charm and attractions, but the elegance of yesteryear is never very far away either.
And that was proved in the Times obituaries today, which noted the sad passing of the ‘face of Blackpool’ Alys Lancaster at the grand age of 95.
Described as “svelte yet curvaceous”, she was well-known for modelling one-piece woollen swimsuits, and she was much in demand at the opening of swimming pools. Amusingly, the obituary goes on to say that the woollen swimsuits quickly went out of fashion because they sagged when wet – Mrs Lancaster went to the 1938 British Trade Fair in Paris wearing the first rubber swimsuit.
Born in Thornton, her home there was the first in the area to have a swimming pool.
It just goes to show the hidden gems lurking in Blackpool’s past. Maybe the Grundy could put on an exhibition looking at Blackpool’s swimming past?
Hello, and thanks for visiting my site! As the Conservative MP for Blackpool North and Cleveleys, my job is to serve the interests of my constituents and represent their concerns in Westminster. Hopefully, my website will bring you a little bit closer to what is happening and how you can get involved. Find out about where I stand on the things that affect us locally and how you can share your thoughts with me by using the links at the top of the page. I look forward to hearing from you!