Southsea in Portsmouth was recently named by the Sunday Times on its list of the UK’s best coastal towns in which to reside.
In honour of that accolade, we’ve put together this retro gallery featuring some of the best photos taken in Southsea through the years.
This trip down memory lane includes stops at Southsea funfair on Clarence Pier, the old Debenhams store, and several much-loved pubs.
These timeless images show what a blast it is to live in Southsea, from riding rollercoasters to roasting potatoes on a bonfire, and of course, splashing about in the sea.
Huge crowds are seen turning out for a Radio 1 roadshow, youngsters are pictured at schools around the area, and Southsea’s community spirit shines through in photos of fun runs and other charity events.
The more bizarre photos within the gallery include a daring animal rescue, a motorcycling snowman causing minor mayhem, and a bouncy castle marriage proposal.
Do you see anyone you recognise in these pictures, and can you spot the very famous face enjoying a proud moment?
If you enjoyed these photos, you might like this look back at some of the best pictures from the 70s.
5. Radio 1 roadshow
DJ Mike Read takes the stage at Castle Field, Southsea, as a huge crowd turns out for the Radio 1 roadshow | The News Portsmouth
6. Funfair
Thousands of task force families crowded into Southsea funfair at Clarence Pier to take advantage of the free rides for military families. Pictured flying their own planes at Southsea funfair are Colin James, aged seven, on the left, and his sister Kelly, four, right, whose father was serving in HMS Glamorgan. Centre right is Anthony Jones, two, whose father was serving in HMS Fearless. Centre left is Anthony's friend for the day, five-year-old Adrian Frearson. | The News Portsmouth
7. Burns celebrations
Pictured preparing for Burns Night celebrations at The Cambridge Pub, Southsea, are landlady Pat Green, left, and barmaid Laura Allen, with Dominic Murphy in the background on the pipes | The News Portsmouth
8. Skyways
The lord mayor of Portsmouth, Roland Taylor, with Pat Shufflebottom and Billy Manning, rear, waving from the Skyways ride at Southsea seafront after it was officially opened by the lady mayoress, Betty Taylor | The News Portsmouth