Fascinating stroll into
Continuing our series in which Geoff Wright takes a look at the history of Southport and nearby areas
BY NOW, I’m sure most of you will know that Southport is a relatively young town, dating back just 225 years, but what you may not know is that there are a surprisingly huge number of stories to tell – and now there is an excellent outlet for many of these to be relayed to all you Nostalgia lovers. The route
A new local history venture of interest to both local residents and tourists has recently been launched, entitled Southport Walks – a leisurely 90-minute guided stroll through the town centre.
The route takes in Lord Street and the Promenade, passing various landmarks of this refined seaside resort, with fascinating tales about its founders and famous visitors.
The gentle meander is also accompanied throughout by old prints, photographs and posters, illustrating Southport as it was, allowing comparison at various locations with its present appearance.
At the end of the walk, there is an opportunity to relax and unwind, rewarding yourself with a cup of tea and a scone, while browsing with the guide through a mass of good photographs of bygone Southport, or to ask more detailed questions.
The photographic collection is courtesy of myself and Martin Perry, of the Southport Civic Society (http://www. southportcivicsociety. org), and Hugh Hollinghurst for some images from his forthcoming publication, Sefton in 50 Buildings. Operated masterfully
This new Sightseeing Tour Agency is masterfully operated by Southport resident, Tony Kletz, the Southport Walks being his brainchild.
Walks depart from outside The Atkinson main entrance on Lord Street, and this first season will continue until midSeptember operating four times a week (Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2pm, and each Wednesday at 10am).
The history walk costs £7 for adults (£6.50 concessions) and £2.50 for children.
No advance booking is nec- essary - just turn up a few minutes before the tour time.
I eagerly joined the strolling group on one of the days last week, with my trusty righthand “man”, Sue, and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Place a flower
The Promenade shelter opposite the historic Royal Clifton Hotel is roughly the halfway point of the tour. Shortly after that spot, one member of each walking group (which happened to be Sue in our case) will be given a flower to place on the obelisk to lifeboatmen, a memorial to those who have perished over the years – as requested on one of the tablet plaques. Regular to Southport
Tony Kletz had been a regular visitor to Southport over many years and had always been struck by the variety of the buildings in the centre.
But it’s only since moving to the town in 2015 that he’s discovered there’s more to Southport than beautiful architecture.