Venue's bid to preserve 'traditional seaside' fare

An arts venue says it will play a key role in the fight to keep traditional seaside entertainment alive.

The Atkinson has been given £248,000 by the National Lottery Heritage Fund towards what it has called an "ambitious" project to celebrate "a heritage at risk" in Southport.

A spokesman said the town had a "rich and enduring history of entertainment dating back to the 19th Century", and that the funding would allow The Atkinson to "preserve the artistry of British seaside entertainment" and "create a new oral history archive".

A permanent exhibition will "capture a vibrant cultural past, much of which risks being lost as seaside resorts evolve in the modern era", he added.

Liz Dowd, Sefton Council's cabinet member for communities and partnership engagement, said: "This is fantastic news for Southport and a real boost for our communities.

"Southport's seaside heritage is part of who we are, and this project will help people of all ages share their stories and feel proud of where they live.

"It's also a great example of how culture can bring people together, support recovery, and create new opportunities for creativity and learning across the borough."

Dave Tetlow, The Atkinson's principal manager for the museum and art gallery, said the exhibition - Southport: That's Entertainment - was about "bringing communities together to share memories, uncover stories, and ensure this rich cultural legacy is preserved and passed on for future generations."

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