18 amazing photos showing what Portsmouth looked like 70 years ago
Ever wondered what it was like to live in Portsmouth in the 1950s?
By Steve Deeks
Published 26th Oct 2020, 16:07 BST
Updated 29th Sep 2023, 12:16 BST
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Judging by the photos in today’s gallery, the pace of life was certainly slower but you can still see how much has changed over the years.
This collection, from The News’ archives, includes a beauty contest at the seafront, HMS Victorious leaving Portsmouth with her new flight deck, and exceptional young cadets at HMS Vernon.
We would love to hear memories of growing up in Portsmouth during that time – you can join the conversation on our new Portsmouth Retro Facebook group.
A contestant on the catwalk. Southsea girls entered the Marilyn Monroe competition alongside South Parade Pier in a summer of the late 1950's. With the Savoy ballroom in the background. Photo: The News archive
'Miss Southsea Contest'. Beauty contests were extremely popular in the 1950's and 1960's, this one was took part on South Parade Pier. The News 957-5 Photo: The News archive
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