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.
25. Young stars
Fernhurst Middle School football champions welcome two visiting managers to their school, Pompey boss Alan Ball and their own team manager, Howard Payne. The Southsea school's under-12 team clinched the League and Cup double, and Alan Ball presented them with the trophies. Pictured is Alan Ball, centre, with Fernhurst Middle School football team. Back row, from left: Tak Lok Lai, Robert Gall, Mark Welch, Stuart Morgan, Brett Flood, Matthew Tilly and Stephen Gillespie. Front row: Lee McLauchlin, Chris Bennett, Dena Maplesden, Paul Griffiths and Wayne Chamberlain. | The News Portsmouth
26. Bugler
Thirteen-year-old Lisa Humphreys gets a note out of a bugle under the critical eye of members of the Corps of Drums of the Royal Hampshire Regiment during their visit to Priory School, Southsea | The News Portsmouth
27. Digging it
The Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, Cllr Darby, helps two-year-old Anita Moore, of Cosham, plant a tree at the East Hants Caravan Centre ceremony at Southsea Common. Roy Tabb, chairman of the centre, looks on with some of the 200 caravanners enjoying the rally on the common. | The News Portsmouth
28. Bouncing with joy
When Paul Feasey asked Anne Mills, of Southsea, if she would like to get married in a castle, she was thrilled. But her dreams were deflated when she found out Paul's plan was to hold the ceremony in a large bouncy castle at Portsmouth Guildhall. However, fun-loving Anne bounced back and said she couldn't wait for the big day. | The News Portsmouth