I had a great time on Saturday with Heritage Open Day.

 I nipped into St Stephen’s-on-the-Cliff to have a look around. Their Actor’s Chapel is unique. I noticed on the list of donors Oswald Stoll. Not a well known name, but perhaps it should be. A theatrical impresario, he founded a charity in the aftermath of World War One to provided homes for wounded soldiers. The work goes on today – they estimate there are some 1100 homeless veterans in London alone. You can find out more about them at www.oswaldstoll.org.uk. The work they do is important as ever in light of the sacrifices made in Afghanistan. 

Another body which does a lot of charitable work are the many Masonic Lodges on the Fylde. As someone who – like many – knows little about the organisation, it was fascinating to look around the lodge room and examine their artefacts. Their charitable activities benefit many good causes such as Trinity Hospice and Brian House.

 Finally, in what was a packed morning, I went off to have a look at one of my favourite buildings, the votive shrine on Whinney Heys Road. A miniature masterpiece by that giant of Catholic church archiecture, F X Velarde, it’s been tidied up a bit since my last visit a year ago. The fundraising continues as they seek to turn it into a community facility. To me, it still retains both kerb appeal and a stark, inner beauty. The Twentieth Century Society, of which I am an enthusiastic supporter, is currently doing some oral recordings about the history of the chapel. It would be great if any who used the chapel could contribute – get in touch with me at [email protected] and I will put you in touch with the Twentieth Century Society. This is a real jewel in Blackpool’s crown, and it deserves to be remembered.