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Growing up in Rhyl

Glyn Jones

Last updated: 21 May 2009

Glyn Jones from Milton Keynes remembers his early life in Rhyl & the time Morecambe and Wise came to stay...

As you look at the picture above, I am on the right. My father (note the dress in those days, even on the beach) was R.O. Jones, an overseer at the Post Office. The one on the left is my half-brother, Robin. This was originally a black and white picture probably taken by my mother with one of those box camera affairs, but it was fashionable in those days to have special photos enhanced in this way being tinted in colour and false backgrounds painted in.

I spent most of my youth in Rhyl and have very happy memories of the thriving holiday resort it was in those days. My earliest recollections were of the time we lived in Abbey Street. This was in the days before freezers or even fridges and shopping would have to be done on a daily basis - which meant that Abbey Street was a thriving community in its own right with a dairy, bakery, meat and fish shops, general stores, news agents, chip shop etc.

We lived in Ty Newydd Villa, down a side street and, if anyone reading this lives there now (or knows the people who live there), that house has quite a history. For instance, did you realise that it was originally a farmhouse on the seafront? During my time there, my widowed mother ran it as a boarding house and she, my brother and I would sleep in a shed in the yard so as to utilise every possible room. Many of our guests were entertainers from the circus or theatres and we once had a young and upcoming comedy duo called Morcambe and Wise!

Every young person in Rhyl had to have a summer job and I recall that my first job was carrying cases. This was confined to the Saturday when people were arriving or leaving and we would ply the railway station, coach stations and the like. Most of the other lads had prams, but I had a proper little truck. Earnings were meagre with five shillings being a reasonable return on a long and hard day's work (though it was rumoured that some made as much as a pound).

My second job was more prestigious - collecting deck chairs at the end of the day. We officially worked for the council which had its perks, like being able to go to the British Restaurant (at the back of the Town Hall) and, on purchasing a special ticket, we were able to go to the head of the (substantial) queue to get our lunch.

The seafront itself was very different then with the whole of the West Parade consisting of boarding houses with their steps running down to the pavement. Of an evening you could walk along and see the guests and the maids, in their black dresses and white aprons, sitting on the steps chatting and laughing. August Bank Holiday was the high point when the whole town would creak under the sheer numbers of visitors and it wasn't unusual to find whole families dossing down in the shelters on the prom because all the boarding houses were booked out.

With the summer jobs came an odd hierarchy. Some of the more prestigious restaurants along the prom, for instance, would only hire 'young ladies' from the grammar school, whilst the 'cameramen' who toted and touted those huge cameras around on the prom were usually grammar school boys. Bus conductors on the extra buses (especially the open-topped specials) were university or college students.

When I was 15, my mother (who was a strict Bible-bashing disciplinarian who disdained anything she considered debauched) slipped up seriously in arranging my summer job for that year. She got me a job working on a roll-a-penny stall - in the funfair! My stall was right opposite the Billy Williams big wheel and you can imagine my euphoria at spending the day being bombarded with all the rock and roll I could take. In addition, the sap was rising and working at the funfair brought me into contact with more young females that I had ever encountered before which led to the inevitable 'holiday romances' and fervent adolescent fumblings in the Marine Lake bushes!

We largely made our own entertainment then and, in our earlier years, the beach was our main playground. When the tide receded, pools would be left behind with streams running out to the sea. Most of the efforts of the lads went into building dams to try and hold in the water and we would quite often end up with a team of total strangers from all over the country furiously digging so that we often ended up with some quite monumental works (but the water always won). We also had the 'baths' (the old open air swimming pool) and the skating rink.

By the late 50s rock and roll music was creeping in and, as few of us had record players in those days, we would frequent the amusement arcades where we could (for a threpenny bit a time) listen to the latest music from the likes of Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly etc.

When we began adult socialising, dance halls or cinemas were the main form of entertainment, especially on a Saturday night. We had three cinemas to choose from - the Odeon, Plaza and Regent where, unlike today, you would get a full programme of a 'B' film, newsreel, trailers, cartoons then the main film.

The two main dance halls were the Regent in the High Street or the Ritz. Putting on the Ritz consisted of a very long (and often cold) walk down the prom to the ballroom. They had a live band and only allowed two 'jives' per evening - the rest of the time it was 'strictly ballroom'.

'Picking up a bird' was the main pre-occupation on these occasions but, as hardly any of us had cars in those days, you had to be cautious before offering to see a lady home as it involved walking - on one occasion when I did offer, it turned out she lived half way to Prestatyn!

I left Rhyl at the age of 18 to join the RAF and it was about that time that, for me at any rate, the rot set in for Rhyl. There were an increasing number of the mobile home parks being set up in places like Kinmel Bay and more and more of the boarding houses converting to holiday flatlets. The nature of the holidaymakers themselves was also changing with fewer family groups and more singles and single age groups.

I last visited Rhyl a few years back and, driving along the prom, was saddened by what it had come to. The entire West promenade, from the High Street all the way down to the funfair, is now one solid line of amusement arcades. True, times move on, but I couldn't help recalling those earlier days when we would walk down the prom, and see those houses alive with the boarders, holiday makers and staff, laughing and joking and determined to make the most of the precious holiday time they had at Rhyl.


your comments

Pat/Rhyl/Oxford/back to Rhyl
Great reading the memories of days gone by from old Rhylites. I must say that all my family and extended family were over for Easter and we walked the full length of the Promenade from Splash Point to the Drift Park and it was a sunny day and the sea and sand looked good. There were lots of families and children around and music from the arcades and we reminisced about who worked where in their school holiday and who went out with who in the late 50s and early 60s and the music that used to be playing and the places that were once there and are not now - more is the pity and our grown up children then recalled their memories of places and things they did when growing up in the 70s and 80s which clubs were where and who went out with who and now we were all seeing another generation who will also have different memories. We all felt that it has changed so much but we all have had happy times and were sad to see some of the changes but unfortunately nothing stays the same and we can each of us remember Rhyl as it was in our own time. We all agreed that it was not as bad as some people paint.
Thu May 21 09:26:40 2009

Diana Rivaz
If anyone with memories of Rhyl would like to come along to the Rhyl Community Fire Station on Saturday May 9th between 10 am and 4 pm, we are having a drop in workshop to capture people's stories to develop a 'living history' album of the area.
Thu May 7 09:38:04 2009

Duncan Stuart from Vancouver / ex Rhyl
Hello David Griffiths from Chesterfield, I certainly remember sitting in the Spitfire on the prom! I paid a penny and, being small, I sat on the lap of the Sergeant pilot who explained what all the various things were. It was the spitfire that had shot down an ME 110 right in front of the open air baths some days before, and they had the German plane next to the Spitfire with barbed wire all around it - I was hooked on 'planes from that day on. I had been with my brother Gary Stuart outside the baths watching what I thought was the quite common practice of British fighters shooting at a target towed behind another 'plane, suddenly a bobby came running along the seawalk shouting "in the doorways, everyone in the doorways" so we all took cover in the arches of the stone door openings of the Baths, and watched the Spitfire shooting at the German 'plane, it then began to trail smoke and finally did a very controlled crash landing in the shallow water right opposite where we were all standing. The home guard ran down to the water and one of them assisted the pilot out who appeared to be slightly injured, the rear gunner was already standing on the wing with his hands up! We were fascinated with the whole thing, and then they walked the fellow with his hands on his head right past us, I clearly remember hearing the home guard man saying "put your hands down lad, you're safe now" which apparently was not quite understood so the the soldier reached up and pulled the airman's hand down and patted him on the shoulder with a grin. How nice and assuring we were to our enemies, but that's the British way, right.
Tue May 5 09:04:25 2009

Anna Carroll/Legget
Hello Pat, good to hear from you. I think it would be wonderful to have a reunion in Rhyl, sometime in the not too distant future. I can imagine it has changed a lot since our school days at the Convent. I don't remember anyone called Krithia but I do remember lots of other people. My memories are quite vivid of our school days even though many years have passed by. Looking forward to hearing from you soon.
Thu Apr 23 09:58:55 2009

Margaret (Davies) Shipley
For Mike Jones (Lenny) Melbourne. Why don't I know you? We lived at 60 Warren Rd from 1958; my grandparents lived there from build. We were right next to the bridge: original railway children...John, Lesley, Marg, Janet & Kathleen. There weren't many children in Warren Rd. Lesley Jones at 56, Wendy Williams further up (don't know number) and the Warings at the top. Great friends all. Brilliant childhood.
Mon Apr 20 11:51:45 2009

David Hughes, Southwell
Val Hines - a reply. Hi Val.Thanks for your comments about the original book, The Reso. I can confirm that Beyond the Reso will be out in May. Currently talking about a very exciting project set in Rhyl involving film for both books. Have not written about West Bridgford (one of the problems of having a common name) but did teach in Bulwell and live a few miles down the road to Newark.
Tue Apr 14 12:51:55 2009

Mike Jones (nickname Lenny), Melbourne, Australia
I was born and raised in Rhyl and lived at 42 Warren Road. Still visit friends there, Pete and Jenny Rainford, Bill and Pat Dyson and Terry and Sue Luckman. Went to school at Ysgol Mair and Glyndwr secondary modern, 1957-1962. Had the best childhood growing up in Rhyl in the fifties and sixties and remember all the places, cafes and dance halls everyone talks about on this site. Great memories. In response to Paul Brownley's son's comments, dated 03/03/08, I knew your father and worked geeing on at the fairground stalls for your granddad and grew up with your uncle Joey & also knew your auntie Joan. My mother, Mrs Agnes Jones of 42 Warren Road, knew your grandparents when they lived in Bridge St Rhyl, before they moved to Trehearn Drive on the coast road. Sorry to hear about granddad, he was a great bloke. Always smoked a cigar. Give my regards to Paul if he remembers me. I was in Joey's house in Kinmel Bay in 2007, just before he sold it to Peter Rainford's son, Lee. I am now married and have 2 children and 5 grandchildren and live permanently in Melbourne, Australia. Would love to hear from anyone that remembers me.
Tue Apr 14 11:21:22 2009

Pat McDonald/Allen, Atlanta, Ga, USA
Hi Anna, I remember all those girls/ladies, I've copied your note and sent it to J Stoer and J McD and told them to get moving on your address! Erlin wants to see Krithia again, I think I know her too. Look forward to talking to you soon.
Tue Apr 14 09:28:46 2009

Val Hines nee Hughes from Nottingham
Hi David Hughes, just got your book the reso and enjoying it very much. I was born in 51 and I grew up in Rhyl but left for Nottingham in 1963. I am looking forward to your new book. Talking to a friend about you and she recognised the name. Did you write a book about West Bridgford or is that another David Hughes?
Thu Apr 9 10:01:44 2009

Janet M, Towyn
Good days, great live music. Anyone remember the dance hall before it got burnt down? We girls would stand around the balcony and look at the lads and the lads did the same. No alcohol, we would call in the Haven and have half a lager and lime, that was all we could afford. When we came out at the end of the night the lads would be crowded around the door. We would be trying to get a lift home without having to fight the lads. Good days.
Thu Apr 2 08:30:51 2009

Anna Carroll/Legget, Merseyside
Hi Pat, great to hear from you again. The last I heard Joan Marshall was a nun woking in Africa. I actually met her at her convent in Liverpool many years ago, it was strange to see her in a nun's habit. She was as mischievous as the rest of us. I hope Jacky Stoer can get my phone number from the phone book. I live in a place called Formby. I have tried to think how to get in touch with you, so will have to keep trying. Imagine a reunion in Rhyl, it would be fantastic, we could walk along the prom and go to Shepherds Cafe (do you remember Rita Shepherd and Susan McManus?). Do you remember Frances Farrelly and Mary Crowther? I have found three photos to show you, can't wait to speak to you.
Wed Apr 1 08:40:00 2009

David Hughes
Hi all, second instalment of the Reso trilogy due out in May. Anyone with associations with Rhyl will recognise the old Pavilion on the cover - scene of much courting in the 70s! Who remembers the lights that played on the dome throughout the summer months? Not forgetting Rhyl's environmentally friendly illuminations - no more than 100 watts for the whole display featuring a host of Disney characters if I remember right. Swimming in the open air baths with a north wind howling also rates a feature. here are some illustrated pictures on my website featuring the promenade as we remember it from our youth [the-reso.co.uk]. I'd be very keen to see any photographs taken in Rhyl in the 60s as our Kodak Brownie rarely saw the light of day and invariably had time expired film by the date we came to have it developed.
Mon Mar 30 09:05:40 2009

Pat Eileen McDonald Allen from Atlanta
Hello again Anna, I told Jacqueline Stoer to look you up in the phone book so we can all get together again. Is Rhyl ready for us? Where is Joan Marshall now? Her brother lived in Rhyl, didn't he? How can I get in touch with you now?
Fri Mar 20 12:38:08 2009

Janette Twigdon, Webber, California
Hi Moira, I tried to reply before but never seemed to get it published, also Jimmy Gee that's Jimmy Garland. I have been in California with Billy for many years. We have a daughter Jenae she is 24. How time flies - still remember all the good times in Rhyl.
Thu Mar 19 08:06:57 2009

Bill (Sanford) Smith
I was born at 18 Gronant St, Rhyl 26/12/43. Left at the age of 10 with my parents and sister Cynthia in 1953. Went to Christ Church school. I have very fond memories of my birthplace, had a cart and used to go the railway station to carry suitcases, sold firewood and was in the pantomine with the theatre club at Christmas. Living in Perth, Australia. Love to hear from anyone from Gronant St about that lived there when I did.
I have just read comments from Anne McGlade. Is your maiden name Williams? You mention Sheila Shepherd, Peggy Teague, Annette Powell, Evelyn Hood.
Thu Mar 12 07:48:25 2009

Anna Carroll/Legget, Merseyside
Hello Pat. Great to hear from you. I remember well our walks in a crocodile line, with our berets or panamas depending on the season. Miss O'Mally used to take us sometimes, do you remember her, she was always a very smart lady. I visited our old school some years ago and was dissappointed to see that it is a housing estate called St Mary's Court or something like that. I think a reunion would be great, would love to see Jacky and Madelaine Stoer and Erlin and of course you and Jacky. I'm so pleased I have managed to make contact with you, we need to have each others' email addresses so we can stay in touch normally. Write soon, Anna.
Mon Mar 9 09:27:14 2009

Pat Eileen McDonald Allen
Those were the days indeed, do you remember walking on the sea front in twos for our Sunday outings? My sister Jackie went back to Rhyl and said the Convent is gone and houses are there now. How sad. It's fabulous to hear from you after all this time, thanks for this website, I'd love to see the picture you have. We should have a St Mary's Convent school reunion soon. I'll tell Jackie, and Erlin and Jacqueline Stoer. Write soon.
Wed Feb 25 08:14:04 2009

Jimmy Gee, Kinmel Bay
Hi Moira Fisher, good to hear from you again! Sandra and I are both OK, still in the same house where you last saw us, young Jim got married on Sat. last, 14th. Have many fond memories of you and gene and your mum, what are you up to these days? Next time you visit your mum would love to see you again, have you any family of your own? All for now, take care, Jimmy.
Fri Feb 20 09:48:53 2009

Anna Carroll/Legget, Merseyside
How lovely to hear from you Pat. I can't believe it. I've actually made contact with one of my good friends from St Marys Convent. I remember Erlin very well. Do pass on my best wishes to her. I would love to make contact with you so we can go over our school days! I have a photograph with the whole school on it and I can pick out lots of my friends. Also, Sister Angela and her sisters, Miss Kelly and Sister Ursula. Those were the days. I would love to hear from you again.
Thu Feb 19 08:43:57 2009

Anna Carroll/Legget Merseyside
How wonderful to hear from you Pat, I see that you and Jacky are now in the USA how lucky you are. I remember Erlin very well we were all good friends and I still have the big school photograph and can pick you all out, those were the days although sometimes I would get very homesick and wished I was a day girl like Joan Marshall. I would love to get in touch with you, I often think back to my school days at St Mary's Convent so it would be really good if we could get in contact with each other.
Wed Feb 18 09:39:39 2009

Pat Eileen McDonald Allen/Atlanta Georgia, USA
I remember you well Anna Carroll Leggett. I too went to St Mary's Convent and my sister Jackie found this website. What a great site! We visited your home from school on the hovercraft. I did love the town of Rhyl, wish we'd seen more of it and Joan Marshall was a good friend as well. I still see the Stoer sisters in London and Erlin Ibreck in NY where Jackie lives. Would love to hear from you.
Mon Feb 16 08:15:32 2009

Moira Fisher nee Tierney (Rhyl)
Message for Jimmy Gee - I tried to leave a message on here when I read yours. Having dificulty locating you - mum has moved to St Asaph and I am now living in Manchester - Gene (sister) is in Northumberland. Hope you and Sandra and Jimmy are all well.
Thu Feb 12 09:50:43 2009

Paul Evans, Kinmel Bay
Message for Gillian Holland. Hello cousin; John and Grace Evans are my gt, gt Taid and Nain their son John was my gt Taid. I have loads on the Evans family tree if you are interested. May I also offer my condolences on the death of your mother. It is hard to make contact on this site but I know your mum was in contact with my gt aunt Lil in Rhyl. If you have her address please write to her with your details if you wish.
Tue Jan 6 08:15:39 2009

Alan Penlington, Rhyl
Hi Barbara Price, I was in touch with you two years ago but as I moved house I'm sorry I lost your letter re your nain, taid. As I told you, your nain was my mother's sister, aunty Lil, uncle Jo, sons, William, Roy and your mum and "Tudor". You have a few relations as I am the youngest of 10 and I am now 68 years old, and we were all born in Rhyl, all had children and our children have had children. You will have to expand your xmas card list [ha ha] x
Mon Dec 1 08:35:03 2008

Kit Edwards from Conwy
I have just come across this site by accident looking for information on the Regal cinema (not Regent). I was told it was the first to have a wide, cinemascope screen. I started reading the letters posted here but was overwhelmed by the quantity. However, certain familiar names jumped out at me, such as Clarey Clarke, Twigdon - Claud was a keen rally driver, Spendlove, I remember having a crush on Susan at Ysgol Llewelyn. If anyone can help with the query, or even remembers me I shall grateful for a reply. As a family we moved to Colwyn Bay c1955. Sadly, that town has also gone downhill it appears. It's still better than Birmingham!
Wed Nov 26 12:16:23 2008

Yvette Johnson from Wrexham
Hi, this is a message for the previous inhabitants of Elwy Drive in Rhyl during the 1940s and 50s. I'm trying to research a Freda Evans who lived at 22 Elwy Drive in 1949. Does anyone know what happened to her? She was possibly living with her elderly parents at the time too. Any further leads would be really appreciated! Many thanks.
Tue Nov 25 11:45:32 2008

Jimmy Gee from Rhyl
PS. Forgot to say that my message was for Moira Fisher nee Tierney. Would love to see you next time you visit your mum. Will have to look her up. Haven't seen her for ages. Take care.
Wed Nov 12 09:07:42 2008

Jimmy Gee from Rhyl
I remember you. Your dad was Henry, always wore 3 piece suit, dicky bow & trilby hat, very fond of budgies. Your mum was Nora, a lovely person. I remember you and your sister Jean when you were just schoolgirls. Used to have coffee and biscuits with you after school when you lived at Marsh Road. Last time I saw you, you were in the Navy, married to a guy with a beard, also a Navy man, lucky to have you cause you were a yummy little thing! All the best to you and yours.
Mon Nov 10 08:31:09 2008

Ian Mabbitt from Woodville, New Zealand
My best memories of Rhyl are from about 1960-63, when I worked a couple of holiday jobs first at a Polish bakery & the next year at Harry Brereton's Bakery. I was a student at Denbighshire Tech. I stayed at Donald MacMaster's house, 22 Palace Avenue. (I think it is now a rest home?) The hours were long in the bakery but the fun times were too! The McMasters' house was also the veterinary surgery of Donald's father & Don had a lovely sister Margaret, she was the 'Vampire Bat' girl in the fun fair! Are any of the Mcmasters still in Rhyl? Happy far off times when I was young & not as foolish as I should have been!
Wed Nov 5 14:46:03 2008

Gillian Hollands Canada
My mother, Kathleen Mary Abbott, was born and raised in Rhyl. She had wonderful memories of beach patrol on horseback and walking the promenade in her slicker and boots during the storms. I can remember going there as a child and walking to the seashore from my nana's home (Sophia Evans Abbott) on Milbank Rd, rock candy and the natural salt water pool. We have lost track of the Evans descendants - descendant from John and Grace Evans' children John, William, and Morris Evans and descendant from Robert and Grace Jones' children Jane Elizabeth Jones (Bet) and David Jones. If anyone has knowledge of these families please let me know. Thanks.
Mon Nov 3 09:13:42 2008

Kajul
I really enjoyed reading Tudor's history and I would like you to give me more information about Tudor's old boats and put the picture of inside the boat and outside the boat.
Thu Oct 30 15:59:22 2008

Margaret Davies Shipley, Wiltshire
For Jenny Gammon. It would seem we are distant relations Jenny. It was nice to meet you at Aunty Margaret's funeral. Rhyl has lost a pillar of their society. She will be missed by a lot of people. Keep in touch, I will e-mail Jonathan with my contact number.
Wed Oct 29 08:26:34 2008

Jenny Gammon from Horsham, for Margaret Davies
You mention my father, Walter Jones, and his cousin, Margaret Foster, and say they were cousins of your father. I think that means we are related. We left Rhyl in 1955 but Margaret lived there until last weekend when she sadly passed away. I will be going to Rhyl on Saturday for her funeral.
Fri Oct 24 08:34:21 2008

Anne Kennealey, 86 years old from Perth in Western Australia
My late husband, John, and I had a boarding house in Lake Ave in 1949. Johnny had a band at the Queens Ballroom, fellow musicians Arthur Leon bass player, Ken Bailey drummer, Ken - sax married Shiela Acton Fond memories of all the visiting celebraties performing for holiday makers. My children Louise, Jane and Martin were all born in Wales. Clarey and Nancy Clarke had a formation dance team, won major prizes at Blackpool. The children remember the donkeys on the beach and the side shows, that lovely cold winter breeze on the prom, empty of all the holiday visitors. We left Rhyl for Chester, and on to Cape Town where Louise now lives. Jane, Martin and I now live in Perth, Western Australia. Happy days in Rhyl.
Fri Oct 24 08:12:11 2008

Anna Legget, Merseyside
I went to St Mary's convent Rhyl 1954 til 1963. My name was Anna Carroll. I would love to make contact with anyone who remebers me. I remember Joan Marshall, she was my best friend. She was a day girl and I was a boarder and she used to bring me goodies! My name was Anna Carroll and I was a border at St Mary's Convent Rhyl from 1953 till 1963. Does anyone out there remember me? Joan Marshall was my best friend she was a day girl and would bring me sweets.
Thu Oct 16 09:38:31 2008

Trace Ingham, London
What I don't understand is, why aren't the people who love Rhyl actually on the council? It seems like, year after year, stuff is torn down, even though a lot of people oppose these 'developments'. Is there any opposition to the razing of Rhyl?
Wed Oct 8 09:55:01 2008

Raina Silverman, was Heptinstall, Maine USA
I went to Blessed Teds back in the early '80s. At the time I hated it and would do anything to get out of going to school. Now I look back and realize that those were some of the best times of my life. I now live in the United States and work in the music industry. I tell my 2 daughters stories of home and how it was growing up in Rhyl and they love it. I've had a great life here but my childhood memories are the best. I'd love to get home more but unfortunately my job is very demanding of my time. My mother is coming to visit this Oct for 3 months and I can't wait.
Mon Oct 6 08:29:41 2008

Joanne Percival from California
I lived in Rhyl many years but haven't been home for some time. I live in Los Angeles now. I used to work at Shepard's cafe, Ratners jewellers, Glan Clwyd Hospital. I've been in the States for last 11 years.
Sat Sep 27 10:06:45 2008

Moira Fisher (nee Tierney)
Hi Janette and Wane - neither of you will probably remember me. I believe Wane is my stepfather (Jack Webber)'s nephew who I believe had a brother called Gene (the same spelling of my sister Gene Tierney). We lived in Marsh Road. I remember most of the Twigdon family - wasn't one a beauty queen? Have a scroll down the comments and you will read some of my sister and my memories of Rhyl. My mum Nora now lives in St Asaph and we often remember the Castanet evening social events. Lovely to hear you are both well. I used to be go around with Pru Knightly.
Mon Sep 8 09:34:21 2008

Nee Lilian Roberts
I was born in Princes Street on 1929. I have two brothers, Cyril and Teddy. My sisters Enid and Joan were older than me. We first lived in number 9 Princes Street then number 5. We later moved to Fairhome Fairfield Ave. School Christ Church and Glyndwr School.
Tue Sep 2 09:07:44 2008

Janette Twigdon Webber, Redding, USA
I found this site by accident. I grew up in Rhyl. My grandfather, Arthur Twigdon, had the fairground for may years, my dad had Twigdons Clwyd Garage St Asaph and my mom had Snax in Rhyl. My uncle John still lives in Rhyl, he had Twigdons Pets and Gardens and my cousin Debbie is in Prestatyn. I recently visited "home" this past summer it is sad to see how it looks now, I remember the good times working in the summer and enjoying all the great night life the down town club the bistro Queens etc. I am married to Wane Webber from Rhyl, related to the Webber family from the prom. We have lived in the USA for almost 30 years now. I went to Fairholme St Asaph and St Winifrides Convent in Holywell. Anyone out there I know?
Mon Sep 1 09:06:05 2008

Olga Shallis nee Jones from Cardiff area
Just found the site, really interested in Dilys Roberts Nee Ellis. I remember Dilys very well, and Irwins. Her grandad was manager of Irwins. He used to live in a big house on the corner of South Ave and Palace Ave. Like Diys I used to go to Warren Road chapel, Dilys was always passing exams for piano playing and giving concerts. I lived in No1 Palace Ave, it was on the corner with Wellington Road. I went to Christ Church School in the days when we had a big coal fire with a huge fire guard round it in the centre of Miss Bibby's class. I can remember school dinners being 1/8 pence a week! I was in the junior Red Cross from 1946 to 1955. We used to meet weekly above 9 West Parade, many a time we would travel as a team on Saturdays to enter competitions, which we often won, needles to say I went in for a nursing career. I have so many very happy memories of Rhyl, it's great to read this site.
Tue Aug 26 07:48:46 2008

David Miller
I moved to Rhyl in 1973. These were the best years of my life, believe me they were. Casing from the train station, getting 30p from the station to Robin Hood camp - heck of a way, we know. Kids now would turn their noses up. Who's to blame (open subject I think)? As one of the other comments said, getting a job in the summer, it was a ritual to do this as we as a family had no money so to buy my school uniform I worked for Dave Skelly on the fair.
Mon Jul 21 09:37:03 2008

Bob Machin, ex-Rhyl
For David Griffiths of Chesterfield. Actually for anyone who might have any family info. My uncle Eli Roberts lived in Handsworth Crescent at the same time as you and I wondered if you have any recollections of him or his family. He was well known as a house painter and liked a pint! Like many other contributors I remember Rhyl as a great place with loads going on, plenty of decent cafes and dance hall, theatres and cinemas. I don't think we knew how lucky we were. Shame it's all gone pear-shaped now. I was at the grammar school from '56 - '61. Happy days.
Mon Jul 21 09:21:33 2008

Lee Parry, Wrexham
I have just been reading these very interesting comments on Rhyl and its local history. I was born and bred in Rhyl and yes those glorious long summers of 'casing' and 'bang' at the amusements until we were chased out - never got caught - but never did anything wrong in the first place really.Most of my family still live in the Rhyl area, but due to joining the Army I lost touch with everyone. My first memories were of the Reso. We lived on Gwynfryn Avenue and then moved to the otherside of Rhyl, I'm trying to find old school mates from Rhyl High between 1973-78. Anyone remember me?
Fri Jul 4 08:19:34 2008

Debbie Jenkins, Rhyl
In response to Rowe from Colwyn Bay. Please get in touch. I've been trying to find you for years now. Hope to hear from you soon.
Wed Jul 2 09:28:01 2008

Shelley Poole Rhyl/ Madrid/Alicante
To Gaynor Jones...yes I remember all those things you mentioned especially the Mickey Mouse Club on Saturday morning - it was 6 pence...those lovely 6 pennny bits! Gosh, you were rich with one of those! Can you remember having to stand when the pictures ended to listen to the "God Save the Queen" anthem? Wow, what a change, eh? Can you imagine people doing that now? It's the same as the telly. I remember listening to the Welsh anthem with all those pretty daffodils on the screen! Talking about telly programes, can anybody remember Torchy the Battery Boy? That's going back a few years, eh?
Wed Jul 2 08:35:47 2008

Gaynor Jones, Rhyl
Does anyone remember Madame Lewis dance teacher and the Rose days in August? Also, Madame Jones and the Mayday, the Rhyl Dragons Roller Skating Club, the Saturday morning cinema at the Odeon with Flash Gordon?
Tue Jun 17 08:24:15 2008

Shelley Poole, Rhyl/Madrid
Hi Rona, gosh all those happy memories - it was like going back in time. Yes, I do have a sister called Cindy, we were me, Michael, Gina, Dawn Cindy and Mandy - yeah we had some super bonfires didn't we? You mentioned Parry's corner too. Well, Mike was the delivery boy. I remember the bike he had had a massive front on it where he would take the orders to the clients! Can you imagine the youth of today doing that? Also, you mentioned Nan's shop at top of Queen St. Well, Nan lived till 106! It seems that we nearly all went to Ysgol Llewelyn. Did you stay school diners? Remember it was 5 shillings a week! I am sure that more than one will remember that and harvest thanksgiving when we all had to take a box of goodies and have them displayed in the main hall while we had service. Just where have all those years gone to?
Tue Jun 3 08:40:09 2008

Rona Jones of Rhyl now Southport
I have just come across this site by pure accident today and have loved reading about everyone's memories of Rhyl. I was born in Chatsworth House, Prestatyn, and grew up in Rhyl which I loved. [Grosvenor Ave No 74] went to Ysgol Llywelyn and remember the Pooles of Grosvenor Ave. Shelley do you have a sister called Sindy? I remember you had brilliant bonfire nights and the jacket spuds were to die for! I also remember your nan's shop! Do you remember the lovely sweet shop on the corner of Gros Ave? And of couse Parrys Corner, Topalians, and the Butcher. Yes I do remember the Corona Man with the dandelion and burdock. My mum was a nurse at the War Memorial before she married. We moved to Tynewydd Farm in early '70s. My dad is Ernie Jones. Lots of good times had there if any one remembers that era I'd love to hear. There were so many good things about the 'old Rhyl'. As A child I remember walking to splash point, the roller skating rink, the cycle track on the prom, Punch and Judy, Summers Cafe and cake shop [where my friend and I worked in the summer getting distracted watching lads walking past on a Sat], Flamingo cafe next to the bus station [what did they take away that depot for?], walking right down the prom to the fair on a hot summer's eve was great. And when you got there the music and atmosphere was brilliant. Then, when I was old enough [or nearly], going to the Bistro and Downtown club. Happy, happy times! Too many lovely things to write down but we all have the same fondness for Rhyl don't we, which, unless you grew up there or holidayed as a child you'll never quite appreciate.
Thu May 29 08:46:46 2008

Shelley Poole, Rhyl/Madrid
Hi guys, gosh it's great to hear from school mates from years ago. Hi Val great to hear from you too, you mentioned Peter Williams. Well, would you believe that I remember him from Ysgol Llewellyn. Wow, what a lad. I rememeber he came home with me when I lived in Grosvenor Ave and mum was lighting the fire. Poor lad, he told us about putting sugar on the fire. Well, suddenly we had a furnace fire. Mum went crackers. What a laugh - we must have been about 9-10 years old. What a coincidence. Hi Peewee, my friend from Elwy Drive (Peter Williams) mark 2! Yes, I rememember the times we had, and the potato wine with you, me and Gossie and Gill.
Wed May 28 08:06:13 2008

Gordon Langley, Stockport
Please support my petition to bring back Ocean Beach Fun Fair, Rhyl!
facebook.com/group.php?gid=27995893880
Tue May 27 08:43:39 2008

Val Hines (Hughes), Nottingham
Hi Shelley Poole, I keep reading all the remarks about Rhyl and miss the old Rhyl. You mentioned you were in a gang of three - one being Peter Williams. Is that the Peter who always was sent to Mr Timothy's office for the cane at Ysgol Llewellyn. They celebrated 50 years a couple of years ago and brought out a celebratory magazine which I have not been able to get hold of. If anyone knows how to get one please let me know. Do you know what happened to Peter? I used to walk home with him sometimes. Write again soon x
Fri May 23 08:17:02 2008

Peter from Rhyl
Hi Shelley, not seen Gillian in Rhyl for donkey's years. Peter Roose is still in Rhyl and so is I (peewee).
Fri May 23 07:54:55 2008

Shelley Poole Rhyl - Madrid
To Shaun Williams, you mentioned about Grange Rd. Would you remember the Rushtons? They lived down the St opposite the Mill Bank in, I think it was, Elwy Drive. I had a friend there for years then we lost touch, Gillian. I lived in Grosvenor Ave but was always around that area as we had our gang with Peter williams, Peter Roose and myself Shelley Poole as, like you, went to Glyndwr like yourself. I started in 1N then slowly lost interest with my studies. Do you remember the caravan always parked in the Mill Bank inn? Can anybody remember the 'Corona Man', he would deliver fizzy pop to your house? Mum used to get a crate full as we were and stil are a big family. The winters seemed to be colder. As for breakfast we would get the milk off the door step which had frozen and the cream had been pushed out. That was a treat crunching frozen cream with your cornflakes. Blimey, we all must have been real tough lot! I wouldn't even think about that for my family and I live in Spain especially so early in the morning, but still things were so different then weren't they?
Tue May 6 08:16:03 2008

Rowe, Colwyn Bay
Carley Jenkins Rhyl, my dad was Tony Mike and Barry's younger brother. I remember you as a young girl I'm sure. Love a reply.
Tue May 6 08:11:26 2008

John McDonald, Thailand
Anybody remember Shoemakers nightclub and any of the guys who were doormen?
Tue May 6 08:06:21 2008

John Daley from Rhyl
Funny how we all think that Rhyl was the place in the '50s and yes it was and for those of us who remain it still is. I lived for many years in Frederick Street, played on the cob, the ruined farmhouse, the white house by the iron bridge - many memories. Cinema, Saturday mornings, as I got older carring cases on the prom, free cake in Sumners my mate John Roberts mum worked there. Went to Christ Church and Glyndwr, joined the army 1971 and came home 1984. Yes, many, many changes. Is Rhyl any better now? I don't know. One thing for sure it will never be the same. Communities change and without doubt Rhyl sure has.
Mon Apr 28 09:50:39 2008

S Bernhardt Worthing
Can anyone go back to the 1920s, did anyone know of an Arthur James or a Mary Tibbit (Tibbet or similar)? They had a daughter (my late mother) born 1925 who was sent to Worthing for adoption. I understand they also had a son. Does anyone remember those names. I know he was a musician (pianist for silent movies, I've been told)
Fri Apr 25 09:21:43 2008

Barry Matthews re Ray Locke
Thank you so much for giving me the information you did about Ray. Since then I have contacted him and his wife Bernice and taken my mum to see her cousin Ray after 60 years. He is a real gentleman and Bernice is a lovely lady and thanks to you I have found them and I am proud to have them in my family tree.
Tue Apr 22 07:47:13 2008

Val Rhyl
For Shaun Williams, No just 1 sister, Janet. My mum and auntie were the Conways who had the chippy. We lived at 21 Grange Rd. My uncle was Arthur Conway who delivered pink paraffin. Then the Foulds family lived there.
Mon Apr 7 09:37:41 2008

Shaun Williams, Sydney, Australia
What a great page! I grew up in Rhyl and lived at 23 Grange Rd (next door to the chippy) between 63-71 before my family emigrated to Oz. I went to school at Ysgol Emanuel and then Glyndwr School. Have great memories of casing in the holidays and the fairground after school, I've often wondered how all my school friends are doing now and would love to hear from anyone who remembers me. Val, I was wondering if you were at the chippy when I lived next door? Did you have brothers? We would be the same age (1959). Would love to hear from anyone from the past.
Thu Apr 3 09:26:36 2008

Margaret Davies, Shipley, Wiltshire
To David Hughes: thanks for respsonse. Glad to hear the second episode of Reso will be out later in the year. I gather from your comment and also from the Reso that you have a keen interest in the railway. You may be interested to know that my grandfather was an engine driver, having spent all his life working for the railway. 49 years service. I think the company was originally Liverpool and North Wales before becoming LMS and later British Rail. Grandad, Robert John Davies (Jack), drove the royal train twice. He was also involved with the Marine Lake miniature railway for a time. I was only very small but I think I can picture him on one of the trains, Billy or John was it? Innocent times.
Tue Apr 1 10:07:01 2008

David Hughes, Nottingham
Hi Margaret. Glad you enjoyed the Reso and that it brought back memories of Rhyl in those halcyon days of the sixties. I'm putting the finishing touches to the second book called Beyond the Reso at the moment, it moves the action into the seventies. All being well it should be out for Christmas. The more I read this column, the more certain I am that Rhyl plays a unique part in people's affection. It seems from recent conversations that I am not the only one who gets irritated by any negative mention of Rhyl in the media. The Marine Lake Railway is going from strength to strength at the moment with volunteers restoring and fettling the site and the rolling stock. There were four of the original Barnes engines present there when I visited this week - it is well worth a visit to travel again behind Joan in the original rolling stock. A centenary celebration is planned in the coming year.
Tue Mar 25 10:33:10 2008

Julie Hoult (was Roberts), Dyserth
It is very interesting reading everyone's comments on growing up in Rhyl. I was born in Gwynfryn Avenue shortly after the houses were built, it was a great place to live as a child in the fifties. My mum used to take in 'visitors' sometimes upto three other families besides us would be staying in the house with my dad and brother relegated to the shed. We played in the cows field (clinic field) when there were still cows grazing there. We regularly went for walks around the bounds without an adult, unthinkable today. My brother and I went to Christ Church school in Vaughan Street until we were transferred to Emmanuel when it opened. We lived at 55 Gwynfryn, our neighbours were 53, the Trowers family who emigrated to Canada and were replaced by the Garrett family. 51, Williams family with two daughters, Gillian and Dawn, next to them was the Hughes family. I seem to remember Mr Hughes was a window cleaner, he burned the nose of my one and only doll with his cigarette, I still have the doll and the burn mark on it. No 57 was the Jones family the children were Robert, Cerwyn, Idris, Myra and Elizabeth. Later we moved to Sisson Street and after to Grosvenor Avenue, just further down from Shelley and Michael Poole. In my teens I worked in the Palace disco, and later the Downtown, both great places. We used to go to the Lido on Saturday nights, it was always packed, we saw all the groups of the day. I think those days were great.
Mon Mar 17 10:16:16 2008

Val, Rhyl
For Shelley, yes I remember Summers at the top of the High Street and the Tudor cafe - happy memories. Yes, my family often went shopping to the Vogue, I remember Mrs Noon. Do you remember my uncle, Arthur Conway, who delivered pink paraffin?
Thu Mar 13 09:09:35 2008

Shelley Poole, Rhyl - Madrid
This is for Val whose family had the fish and chip shop on Grange road...yes I remember well as I had a friend who lived near the Mill Bank Inn! we would pop in now and again for a bag of chips! I can remember the Punch and Judy shows in front of the clock top of High St wow things have changed, nice to hear that the Voque is mentioned. Mrs Noon lived around there as well! The owner was called Mrs Taylor who lived in Mallorca, strange world eh! Can anybody remember the Post office in High St? Or Fortes, Tudor cafe, Summers that was the top of High St...gosh where have all those years gone to?
Wed Mar 12 10:00:48 2008

Margaret Davies Shipley, Wiltshire, ex Rhyl
Just browsing to while away the time during a day of heavy storms. My first visit to the site and I'm hooked. Born in '48, I lived in Walford Ave, Arfon Grove and Warren Road (bottom of H-bridge) which was our family home for many years and my father's before that. Went to Christ Church, Glyndwr and Connahs Quay Tech. I remember all the named teachers from those years, some with fondness, some without; Shelley talks about the Vogue and about Mrs Noon who is my aunt (mum's 1st cousin); other writers refer to teachers Walter Jones and Miss Fosters - cousins of my dad. Spent my youth at Tudor, Ritz and Marina Disco. Loved every minute. Wearing something with white was 'fab' under the lights in the Marina. I used to work in M&S on a Saturday and spent a lot of my earnings on material from the market. Would then want mum to make me something for the Saturday night. She always came up trumps, bless her. I wore Mary Quant styles and thought I was the bees knees. One Saturday I went to the Marina wearing a red corduroy 'shift' with a white collar. Before my boyfriend had finished paying I was back out of the door refusing to go in...the corduroy 'lines' showed up under the lights and looked awful. Very like the boys' dandruff did on their jackets. Very early teens my Saturday and Summer holiday job was in Hunt's greengrocers. David Hughes:- The Reso is a brill read. Couldn't put it down.
Tue Mar 11 10:00:19 2008

Val, Rhyl
I was born in Rhyl in 1959. I have found this site so interesting. I was wondering does anyone remember my family, the Conways who had the Fish and Chip shop on Grange Road (well known for fantastic fish and chips)? Also, my uncle John Conway who had the Rhyl Silver Band on the prom next to the Punch and Judy. Lovely memories, people singing, and hymn singing.
Mon Mar 10 09:36:28 2008

Mark Jones, Portsmouth
I lived in Rhyl from 1981-1985 on Elwy Drive and Seabank Road, went to Rhyl High and had a blast. Trying to dodge the teachers while trying to take a short cut across the stream that ran at the back of the school. I remember the fights at Coronation Gardens and the old hospital next to the school. Anybody remember the ill fated mono rail? I worked for Les Harker during the summer months, eyeing up the girls while taking money for the bumber boats. I have been back a few times to Rhyl and watched with sadness the decline but I understand it's undergoing a revamp on the west end...good luck.
Wed Mar 5 09:23:46 2008

Brownley
Thought I'd add to the comments, I grew up in Rhyl and my family had a long connection with the fair. My grandad Joseph (Joe) Brownley died on Saturday. He was well known by many and will be missed. My father Paul may have gone to school with some of you ('40s-'50s), but most of the time he was bunking off to work on the fair!
Mon Mar 3 08:51:57 2008

Shelley Poole, Rhyl/ Madrid
This is for David Hughes from Nottingham...great to hear that people remember my Nan's shop, she had the fancy goods and wool while dad had the Airfix at the weekends. You mention that your mum worked there in the sixties so she would remember - the mob (my sisters). We worked for Nan in the summer and at weekends. My brother and I came home this last week as it was my Dad's 80th birthday! Adding to this we went castle hunting as now my family live in Dyserth and would you believe that Dyserth had a castle as big as Conway. It's so sad that our Welsh inheritance wasn't taken seriously as it is now because would you believe that the quarry destroyed it and all there is left is an outside wall but with a little imagination you can get an idea just how it was...it sent shivers down our spine to think we had found Dyserth castle...
Mon Mar 3 08:16:32 2008

Peter Watkins, Costa Blanca
Robin Jones - I went to school with Emyr Wardle - Ysgol Dewi Sant from 1947 until 1951 I guess.
Wed Feb 27 09:34:47 2008

Peter Trehearn, Rhyl
Wendy from Rhyl mentions a postcard sent to her family by Janet Trehearn who had emigrated from Rhyl to Melbourne by 1954. I have recently discovered that she now lives in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. Her sister Jaqueline still lives in Australia. I am in touch with both sisters and I would love to be able to resend a copy of the postcard to Janet Morgan nee Trehearn.
Mon Feb 25 10:20:07 2008

Wendy from Rhyl
The site has brought back many happy memories. I lived in Aquarium St until 1959 where my father (T.W. Jones) had the chemists shop. I attended Christ Church school so many names are familiar to me, especially Margaret Flavell. It is strange to be reminded of old haunts, the local streets, the shops, the Roma, the skating rink, the baths etc. My father would have been delighted with the comments about Rhyl FC in its glory days as he was very involved with the team & I have his newspaper articles & photos of them from their giant killing days. I notice how many people emigrated & among my parents' effects was a postcard from a Janet Trehearn when her family arrived in Melbourne about 1954 with no forwarding address. Wish I had found it before my year in Melbourne as a visit to the immigration museum might have provided some information.
Mon Feb 18 10:09:13 2008

David Hughes, Nottingham
I know we have dealt a lot with growing up in Rhyl and lamenting some of the changes but I was recently lucky enough to attend the launch of the Rhyl City Strategy and have a lot of optimism for the future of the town. Thanks to the efforts of the local MP, Chris Ruane, a sizeable amount of funding has been granted to regenerate Rhyl and develop the employability of the local people. I think this has been the first time sufficient money has been set aside to allow a proper development of the town to benefit the local people. I also saw a video preview of the new Ocean Plaza development on the site of the old fair. I certainly enjoyed happy times as a lad at the fair but the Ocean Plaza development is impressive enough to bring people back to the town to visit and stay. The problem of unemployed people in houses of multiple occupancy in the West End is also being tackled. I think the town, has a brighter future if everyone plays their part in supporting these developments. Shelley, I remember beating a path to your mum's shop every fortnight to buy an Airfix kit - always thought it strange to have a shop selling wool and Airfix kits! My mum, Crid, worked there at one time in the sixties. I was back at the High School last week to work with the younger pupils. War Memorial and the Laundry long gone alas! Also had a tour of Rhyl FC with my Mal Jackson. Good to see Rhyl lads and former players, Peter Parry and Paul Higginson showing such faith in the town.
Tue Feb 5 09:08:25 2008

Moira Towell (nee Griffiths), Earls Barton
Looking forward to the next Rhyl Grammar School Reunion Len. It's a great night meeting old friends (even teachers). Some coming as far away as France, Germany, South Africa and Canada, just to be there.Thanks to you Len., Margaret, Elizabeth, Allan and Neville for the organisation.For details of the reunion see websitewww.rhylgrammarschool.org
Mon Feb 4 15:35:05 2008

Shelley Poole, Rhyl / Madrid
This is for Kevin Evans from Cambridge. Of course I remember the tuck shop, it was the hit scene break and lunch time. My uncle was the caretaker there years ago, Fred Frost, a little guy with glasses. Do you remember the laundry across the road and the War Memorial Hospital? I think they have built houses there. What about Topalian's? They had sweets and newspapers further up the street in front of Parry's corner. Can anybody out there remember these places? By the way, my bruv went to the Grammar - anybody remember him, Michael Poole?
Thu Jan 31 08:09:15 2008

Andrew Hughes/Rhyl/Leeds.
Hi Jean from Prestatyn, I too went to St Mary's Convent around 1954, along with my sister Hilary Hughes and remember Sister Jane with fondness. She went to Lowestoft Convent, I believe. I passed through Rhyl last year and it instantly brought childhood memories of the old place back. I remember the old pavilion with changing lights on it, the roller skate park, and the boats and bikes and also the pier and the old fair. Sad that you can't go back, is it not?
Mon Jan 28 09:16:38 2008

Len Threadgold in Leamington Spa
I was thrilled to stumble accross this website and be reminded of so much from my childhood and youth. I am still involved in the organisation of reunions of those who went to Rhyl Grammar School and there is one planned for 10th May this year at the Graig Fawr in Meliden(see the website at www.rhylgrammarschool.org). I recognised Robin Jones immediately as he has been at the reunions in the past and unlike me is still recognisable from his photograph. I recognise Peter Brew since he was in my class at Christ Church school. I asked Ivor Williams at a recent reunion if he knew what had happened to him: we now know! We used to live in the Railway Terrace in Marsh Road since my father worked on the railway. I joined Second Rhyl Cubs as soon as I could and only left the Scouts when I went to Liverpool University in 1958. My first holiday job was at Mac's Fishing Pond on the prom and subsequently worked on deck chair collection, milk deliveries, taking photos on the prom with one of those enormous ex WD cameras (Nev Jones used to cut quite a dash doing that too), processing photos for the same outfit, peeling potatoes at the back of a cafe on Wellington Road near to Pete Wood's place, delivering for a chemist shop with a link to a holiday goods shop on the front. I still think so fondly of those very happy days and of the good friends that I had and still have from those days. I could go on for hours about it but that will have to do for now.
Fri Jan 25 08:22:01 2008

Cheryl Roberts, Dunfermline, Scotland
Wonderful to read about Rhyl. I left Rhyl in 1972 and the town really has gone downhill since I lived there. I lived at Marsh Road, my father, Owen Roberts, worked at the fair as a welder but also worked as a tattoist on Water Street. My mother, June Roberts, nee Davies, unfortunately died in 1972 and was in the RAF in Wilmslow. I would love to here from anyone that knew my mother or anything about her or if anyone remembers her from school etc.
Thu Jan 17 08:15:14 2008

Jeff Hollis (Slater), Rhyl
To Janie Goldring (Re Ray Lock). Sorry for the delay, I have only just found this site. As a young lad I remember the Lock family when they lived in Hen Afon Road, Rhyl, in a council house before they moved to "Locks Antique Shop" in Crescent Road. We used to love waiting for Ray to come home in his van loaded up with scrap and old antiques and watch him unload the stuff. I was in Rhyl 2 years ago and I'm sure I saw Ray Lock in Morrisons Supermarket car park and he had hardly changed in his looks. I'm now 53 so he must be well into his 70s. As a short note I bought my wife's engagement ring from his shop in 1976. Hope your search is going well.
Wed Jan 9 09:52:37 2008

Kevin Evans near Cambidge
It's fascinating to read all these reminiscences about Rhyl. I'm surprised though that no-one has mentioned the Tuck Shop next to Rhyl Grammar School. (I was a pupil from 1954 to 1960.) Perhaps the Tuck Shop is still there and therefore doesn't justify a mention. Anyway it was run, I think, by Mr and Mrs Twigg. We used to supplement our school lunches with 'penny buns'. Some splashed out tuppence on the more sophisticated Chelsea buns. I haven't been back to the school for some 15 years. When I did I was disappointed to see that the 'old building' and the rose garden are no longer there. When was the old building demolished?
Mon Dec 31 09:36:25 2007

Shelley Poole from Rhyl / Madrid
To Dilys... well I didn't know how they thought of the name for that place you mentioned in Queen street. Do you remember Poole's wool shop? Well, it was a bit of everything really - we even had hand knitted tea cosies and stocking repairs... Gosh, haven't things changed?
Mon Nov 26 08:15:08 2007

Dilys Roberts (nee Ellis), Gloucestershire
I came upon this site by chance and have enjoyed reading other people's memories of what was indeed a unique and lovely little town when I was growing up. I was born in Warren Road and lived in Rhyl until I went away to university in 1952. Some of you older residents may remember Irwins the grocers in Queen Street - my Taid was manager there until 1947, when a certain gentleman called Cohen bought old Mr Irwin out and turned the shop into a new fangled establishment where you collected your own shopping from the shelves and paid on the way out! He called it after his wife - TESa COhen...the rest is history.
Wed Nov 21 09:41:25 2007

Shelley Poole, Madrid / Rhyl
Hi guys, it's becoming a family thing as my bruv from Norway has joined us being a proud Rhylite. Can anybody remember the big mine which was on the sea front for years...painted red and white, you put pennies in it for the lost at sea! I never really understood that. It was removed when it was full so there must have been a few bob or two in it. Oh, and the Punch and Judy shows at the side of the big clock top of High Street. Gosh, we were so easy to be entertained in those days. Try giving that to a 10yr old these days - what would they think, eh? Can any of you people out there remember May day in Rhyl or the big circus in Brookes field? Gosh what memories...
Mon Nov 19 08:16:18 2007

Michael Poole / Rhyl / Oslo
Hi, my big sis Shelley Poole has written a lot about her memories in Rhyl, now that she is talking about 84 Grosvenor Ave - I will also chip in. Shelley & I both live overseas now. I in Oslo and Shelley in Madrid we keep in touch via Skype. We were lucky enough to have a big house with an even bigger garden - that was half lovely garden and half jungle that was an orchid of all sorts of fruit trees hidden behind 7ft high hedge. It was a great place to play - from the tallest tree in the jungle I could see Dyserth mountain. We had a lot of fun when we were younger - I remember one bonfire night we built such a big bonfire that practically half the street turned up to watch it - we were wondering who all the people were as there seemed to be bodies everywhere and mum's parkin and flapjack did last long. There was a lane at the back of the garden so it was easy for people to gatecrash - we didn't mind though as it was all good fun. If Paul Dudley or John Roberts read this page (my best mates) who also lived in Grosvenor Ave - it would be fun if they joined in too.
Tue Nov 6 08:49:47 2007

June Clifford from Ontario Canada
We lived in Prestatyn from 1946 till 1953, and I went to Rhyl Grammar School 1952/53, then we moved to Canada. Does anyone know of a Margaret Davies (maiden name) who had a twin brother David Davies, they attended Rhyl Grammar School also. She was my friend from Prestatyn, and they lived in the northern part of Prestatyn. Rhyl used to be a lovely place, we used to go there and walk down the promenade on a weekend.
Tue Nov 6 08:30:29 2007

Shelley Poole/ Rhyl /Madrid
To Pat from Oxford/Rhyl. Hi Pat, gosh what a small world, yes I remember your sister in law Sally Brookes! Her best friend was Pat Roberts. It's nice to hear from people that remember us all. We used to play in the Coras (Coronation Gardens). Can you remember the laundry down Grange Rd? Nearly oposite the grammar school and the War memorial Hospital? I worked at the Vogue when we moved out to Dyserth, my brother and I lived in Grosvenor Ave, we both went to Ysgol Llewelyn but my sisters went to Prestatyn school. Remember Robert's on the corner of the Vogue? And the sweet shop which had the same entrance? Wow that's a few years ago Pat! It was so sad about Mrs Roberts, if you see Mrs Noon send her my regards. The bus stop was just across the road from us. It's changed so much...ask Sally if she remembers when we went carol singing and spent the cash in Fortes? I think that we all seem to have the same nostalgic memories don't we? Do write back and tell me more, thanks about the name. I have two chidren, Eva Maria and Rafael, and now a lovely granddaughter called Laura of 6 months. I think those years that we all talk about were something special in which if you aren't or weren't a Rhylite the people wouldn't understand. Maybe one day Rhyl just might change its looks and at least bring back its Pier!
Fri Nov 2 09:51:51 2007

Pat, Rhyl/Oxford/back to Rhyl
Shelley Poole - did you read my last comments? I referred to The Vogue which you had previously asked about and also Sally Brooks (my sister in law). You will see that I named my daughter Shelley - I liked the name. I also live in Grange Road area and remember your family well. I also work with a lady who was at school with you and many people who have read this website have said they remember you. Rhyl is now beginning to see the benefits of updating but it will be a long haul I think. Maybe we remember things as being so much better because we were younger and didn't really notice its shortfalls because we were too busy out enjoying ourselves. Hope you catch up with some of my earlier notes. Its nice to read of people's memories of Rhyl and not all the bad.
Mon Oct 29 08:39:10 2007

Shelley Poole original Rhylite, Madrid
Hi guys lovely to read all the letters, I was really surprised when Don Spenlove the footballer was mentioned, gosh that is going back a bit! I lived next door to them. I remember they had 2 chilrden. I remember that Susan became a teacher. We breed rabbits so we gave her one as a pet to take to her class. We were the Poole Clan! When we lived there (84 Grosvenor Ave) we always had everybody around to play. The best thing was that Dad had his depot full of cakes and biccies so we would have a feast at the bottom of the garden! That was the time when we would walk into Rhyl over the Grange Rd bridge past Mill Bank Inn freezing in the middle of winter to walk up and down High St to spot the squaddies because they all had the army haircut. Can anyone remember that, eh?
Fri Oct 26 09:13:05 2007

Anne Henderson, nee Lee, Scotland.
Hi, Peter Williams from Delaware. I just read your comments on this page, 2005, and thought your quote 'Hilarious'. Once you'd walked your girlfriends back to their 'caravan'. You had to walk back home to Flint 'All NIGHT LONG' WOW. (Can't stop laughing). I can picture you in Mostyn Station thinking 'What was I thinking about DUH!' We girls, at that time, never gave much thought to the walk you lads had, after seeing us 'safely home'. It made you fit though didn't it? lol. I too lived in Rhyl on and off, between my Nanny Lee, Rhyl, and my Nain Jones, Mold. My Nanny Lee had a boarding house in Water St, during 45-late 50s, and my sister Mary and I stayed with her. In fact, my younger sister was born in that house, but for some reason did not stay with Nanny. Why? don't know. I remember 'mooching' gum from the Yanks as children on the promanade. 'GOT ANY GUM, CHUM?' We used to have pockets of the stuff. They never refused us. And my frequent visits to the beach singing my heart out with the Salvation Army Band on the sand. Wouldn't have missed it! lol. Singing these words:- SHOUT IT OUT, LOUD AND CLEAR. S.A.L.V.A.T.I.O.N. I was about 6yrs old at the time. Passing memories. You could write a book on them when you think about it Peter. No joy spotting anyone I might recognise this time. But I will be popping back on here from time to time to see. Keep up the good work it's a great site to visit. Pity about the Prom - TOO much concrete build up on what was once an open spacious walkway. I think it is called 'moving with the times'!
Fri Oct 19 08:51:13 2007

Robin from Guildford
Sorry folks - just thought. It was Don Spenlove's 600th GOAL wasn't it! My memory isn't what it was obviously. He wouldn't have had much time to do his plumbing if it had been GAMES.
Wed Oct 17 08:20:00 2007

Robin Jones from Guildford
Peter (Brew), I don't know you though our paths must have crossed at some stage in the 40s, even though I was probably in my pram! My mother moved to Rhyl from Yorkshire with her parents (Mary and Thomas Pierce) and family in 1935 as a young woman and helped set up a boarding house at 3 Aquarium Street (on the corner of Gronant Street). She met Ivor, the elder son of Robert and Sarah Jones, who lived round the corner at 21 Abbey Street (Greengrocers/Dairy), and they were married in 1939. My brother David was born in 1940 and I followed in 1945. My mother was great friends with Dora Wakefield, granddaughter of the Mr Wakefield who set up the shop next door to you. We moved to North Drive in 1942, but then returned to 28 Aquarium Street (on the corner of Aquarium Crescent) shortly afterwards. Margeret Flavell lived opposite, my great friend of the time Emyr Wardle (and sister Eira) were next door and Barry Austen across the crescent. I was here, there and everywhere on my bike, Tom Kingston's being a favourite stop. On Abbey Street, I remember Charlie Brereton and Mrs Charlie, who supervised the exchange of coupons for our ration of sweets. The Moorcroft sisters had a green-grocers opposite our shop at No 21 and I was often sent over to check on their prices! Stan Worthy, we emigrated to Tasmania in 1952 on the SS Orontes (June Sailing) from Tilbury but returned to Rhyl after only 6 months. I remember Don Spendlove playing his 600th game for Rhyl, but my favourite of the time was little Billy Hughes on the right wing. Probably after your time though. Tom McKillop helped coach our Christ Church Football team along with teachers Walter and Derek Jones.
Tue Oct 16 09:38:55 2007

Steve Thomas - Orlando Florida
To Julie Dent - Hebden Bridge. Saw your mention re Crescent Rd. I was born at no 33 Crescent Rd and later moved to 29 Crescent Rd where my parents ran it as a boarding house. I have many pics of the visitors to the house which I remember was called "Bartonville". Great site. Amazingly we moved from Haworth, just over the hill, 6 years ago to Florida!
Mon Oct 15 09:17:43 2007

Peter BREW St. Day, Cornwall.
Here is a list of premises in Abbey Street which I recall from the 1940s. I have already mentioned Knowles Sweet Shop & Tobacconist, and just up from that was Brereton's Bakers Shop, with McCartney & Sample, another baker specialising in cakes a little further up the Street. We were lucky enough to have The Little Theatre in Abbey St in those days. There was a fruit shop owned by someone called "Ivy", and the Macmasters had a veterinary surgery just off Abbey Street, in Aquarium Road. Then there was a Fish & Chip shop and two pubs - The Abbey Vaults, and the The Sandringham which was at the Promenade end. Pat, will you please give my regards to Margaret Flavell. The Novelty Shop to which you refer where she lived was owned by Mr Wakefield, and was next door to where I lived at 39 Abbey Street - now turned into flats I believe. The other side of us at 37 was Supreme Red Coaches. Abbey Street also boasted a bookmaker and many boarding houses. Just down the entry from Wakefield's shop there was a huge store, where the Army kept mountains of potatoes and other vegetables. This was run by a couple of old sweats, "Fred" and "Bert". This was just after the war, and as a small child I remember endless lines of tanks and armoured vehicles, lorries etc., travelling through the High Street, probably going to or coming from Kinmel Camp. The man who ran the pleasure boats "Duke of Edinburgh" and the smaller "Panther" was called Bob Gartside. He later moved to Cornwall and set up a boating centre in Malpas. Well, that's all for now folks, as they say. Well done all you contributors - keep up the memories!
Thu Sep 20 12:15:16 2007

Claire Evans, nee Roberts
I have so enjoyed reading this site, it has reminded me of so many lovely memories as a child. My grandparents lived on Princess Street and my mum is Joyce Roberts. I have such brilliant memories of Sidoli's cafe and the milkshakes we devoured there. I haven't been to Rhyl for quite a while since my nain Coridwen Humphreys from Dyserth passed away six years ago. Really enjoyed everyone's experiences. My nan worked at Forties cafe in Rhyl, does anyone remember her?
Mon Sep 17 09:53:42 2007

David Hughes
Hi All, I'm trying to put a name to proud Rhylite - by my reckoning we must have gone through Emmanuel and Glyndwr together. We seem to have shared Chatsworth House together as well. When I read your account of Rhyl it tallied completely with mine. By the way I have a copy of the book by Joe the Swan, Rhyl and Roundabout, somewhere around the house.
Mon Sep 3 10:20:45 2007

Pat, Rhyl/Oxford/back to Rhyl
Having already written about the Roma, The Ritz, The Unity Cafe, The Jazz Club on a previous occasion, I have just read comments from Shelley Poole regarding The Vogue where I spent most of my time and my hard earned money on clothes. I still see Mrs Noon! It was a great shop with great people in it. I do remember your family as I was brought up in Rhyl since 1939 and the cafes and shops were so much part of my life too. I worked in Roose's cafe one summer school holiday and also Marks & Spencer - really posh, I thought. I live in the Grange Road area and remember your family members who lived just up the road in Grosvenor Avenue well. I also have a daughter called Shelley. Peter Brew has also written about Abbey Street and Margaret Flavell. We are still mates. I used to help out in her grandparents' boarding house in Abbey Street when we were quite young for 1/- per day! They also had a novelty shop. We used to go to the Coliseum Theatre or the paddling pool on our two hours off in the afternoons. What a small world this is. Do you remember a shop owned by Dave Baldock also in Abbey Street? Also, Margaret's dad who drove for Rhyl United Coaches? So many happy memories. I just wish the prom was as good as it used to be or is it just those rose coloured spectacles again?
Mon Sep 3 10:01:55 2007

Proud Rhylite, Prestatyn
Hi. Just finished reading "The Reso". What a fun and entertaining read. The descriptions are so vivid it was more like watching a video in technicolour than reading black lettering on a white page. I didn't live on "The Reso" but I went to Ysgol Emmanuel so had lots of friends who did. I was also in the same schools at the same time as the author so it brought back lots of memories. Thank you.
Wed Aug 29 08:05:49 2007

Shelley Poole from Rhyl -- Spain
Hi you people out there, lovely to read the site, just to say that I came home to Wales with my husband, daughter and future son-in-law from Spain to show them all my haunts in Rhyl. I felt so sad to see half the places closed with really nothing left of what I had always spoken about even my grandmother's shop all borded up in Queen St, but we did have a laugh when we went into Vernon's arcade, having a go on the rifle range wow it had real antique dust everywhere. I used to come home in the summer with my children and let them play here - now my daughter is 30 and my son 33 and guess what? It hadn't changed a bit...
Wed Aug 22 09:41:55 2007

David Hughes
Hi all. Was in Rhyl last Thursday to launch the book about the Reso. Had a great time at the Rhyl Marine Lake Railway. There seems to be much more of an air of optimism in the town at the present and I was really looking forward to see my old pal Keith Jones at the High School. It was a real shock to hear that there is a proposal to close down the sixth form at both Rhyl secondary schools. This seems such a contrary thing to do when the town is gearing up for regeneration. There is a campaign going on to save the sixth form on the Campaign section of the BBC website and I'd suggest anyone who benefitted from the sixth forms or is interested in the future of Rhyl to sign up and support the schools.
Mon Aug 20 12:37:42 2007

Anne McGlade (ex Rhyl) from Flint
What great stories. Brings back marvellous memories of some great times. I was born in Rhyl in 1943 and lived in Gronant Street. Went to Christ Church and Glyndwr Schools and Christ Church Sunday School. Some wonderful friends - Joyce Warner, Janet Jones in primary school days and Janice Evans and Rita Bromley, Sandra, Gillian, Doreen etc. in secondary schools days. Linda Roberts, Peggy Teague, Annette Powell, Sheila Shepherd, David Williams, Evelyn Hood - Gronant Street/John Street/Aquarium Street mafia! Great times, great people - how sad to see Rhyl now.
Mon Aug 20 11:38:01 2007

Proud Rhylite
Hi. What a great site. I was born in Chatsworth House, Prestatyn but grew up in Rhyl. I went to Ysgol Emmanuel until 1968 then Glyndwr for two years then Rhyl High. I wonder has anyone ever read the old book about Rhyl by Joe "Swan" (of the Swan pub)? It is full of interesting information about Rhyl. He writes about the bear and camel that are buried next to each other in Fforddlas. The circus was in Rhyl and these two animals died. Does anyone remember when the circus used to come to town and parade from the train station along Vale Road? There were girls in fancy costumes sat on the bonnets of huge American cars. The elephants also had people riding them and men on stilts used to give out sweets. It was such an exciting and colourful parade. Rhyl has such an interesting history. The last woman to be hanged in Britain (Ruth Ellis) was born in Rhyl and the last man to be hanged (James Hanratty) said that he was in Rhyl (Kinmel Street) at the time that the crime was committed. How innocent life was. We used to do our PE lessons in just our vests and knickers and no-one thought anything of it. I wonder do ex-Emmanuel pupils remember the headmaster Mr Roberts? Other staff I remember are Mr Williams; Miss Settle; Mrs Huxley; Miss Evans; Mrs Willaims; Miss Loveridge; Miss Morgan and Miss Jane Jones (netball). What two lovely and kind ladies they were. I always used to get 10 house-points from Miss Jane Jones every Friday afternoon for always remembering my handkerchief (not a paper tissue!) every day! I was in Melyd (the blue house). Asaph was red, Dewi was green and Beuno was either yellow or white I think. I remember having to have "bomb drills" when the Irish boys were coming to play at Rhyl High. How wonderfully politically incorrect! When the bell sounded everyone had to lift the lid on their desks. The boys had to leave the room straight away and the girls had to check all the desks for bombs! Everyone had been forewarned about this drill so it was no suprise to anyone when the bell sounded. Despite this, I remember that I was in a class with Miss Humphreys at the time when the bell sounded, and she was just cleaning the (chalk!) board when the bell went off. I remember her spinning round so quickly to face the class that the board-duster flew out of her hand as she shouted out "Don't panic!" Oh happy days! Hope this brings back a few happy memories and smiles.
Mon Aug 20 10:24:51 2007

Adria Bryan, Rhyl
Great site. Have just found it by chance. I have to ask, does anyone remember 'The Nautique' coffee bar? It was definitely the place to be, and was just off the High Street, where the Glan Glasfor club is now. It was so dark inside, it was quite usual to trip over a pair of feet, but just the street cred of being there was worth it. It was only tiny, and would be filled to bursting. Late night coffee bar was the 'Coastliner' in Kinmel Street, around where the Visitor or Journal office is now. We would pile in there after the Palace and the Haven closed.
Fri Aug 17 09:26:56 2007

Emma Cannon from Rhyl
I grow up in Rhyl until I was 11 years old and then moved to Manchester, then London one year later. I have been in London for 9 years but it is still not my true home just a work place. Now every summer holidays and bank holiday weekends I visit Rhyl. I couldn't keep away from Rhyl for too long, as I really get home sick. All my great memories are in Rhyl. The winter is so quiet, but the summer is the opposite, hundreds of holiday makers are in Rhyl in the summer. I love it, on the prom on a Saturday night the clubs are packed, full of holiday makers. Clubland & dance music blaring all night, the atmosphere is brilliant, and after too much to drink a donner kebab goes down nicely. I have found that people in North Wales are more relaxed then southeners. Once I have finished my degree in Art & Design, also worked as a teacher in London for a few years I will return to sunny Rhyl. Walking on the beach and around the Marine Lane & walking down Gipsy Lane, visiting Dyserth, is how I will spend my weekends. Thank you.
Wed Aug 15 12:27:48 2007

Hilary Venecek (nee Hughes) Toronto, Canada
Joan Marshall - of course I remember you, I used to wear your cast off clothing. Your mother and mine were friends.
Mon Aug 6 13:10:57 2007

Val Hines nee Hughes from Nottingham
I love this site. I grew up in Rhyl but have lost touch with my old school friends Christine Owen and Sandra Widlow. We all lived on the towers estate about 1960 and went to Ysgol Llewellyn where my father was caretaker. We lived all over - Glyn Avenue, Rhydwyn Drive, Trellewllyn Road and Diane Drive. I hope Rhyl improves. Shelley Poole, I can't remember you but hi anyway - lovely to hear from you.
Mon Jul 30 08:30:54 2007

David Hughes
Hi all, sad to hear that the Kwik Save empire has folded. Albert Gubay, who originally set it up, was a Rhyl lad and a friend of my Uncle's. I remember his first shop in Queen Street, across the road from Poole's where I used to save my pocket money for an Airfix kit every couple of weeks. It was quite a novelty going into a self service store in the early sixties when I had been used to Hinchcliffe's the Grocer's, Vaughan's the newsagents and sweet shop and Astle's the greengrocers and chip shop on the Reso. The novelty soon wore off when we had to carry bags full of shopping all the way home to Gwynfryn Avenue over the Vale Road bridge. Poor old Albert did little to endear himself to me when he purchased land on what had been the waste ground next to the shunting yard and built a showroom which was a garage for a weekend and then turned into a food supermarket - something to do with planning permission I was told. The location meant that I could no longer keep an eye on passing trains whilst playing football in the Clinic field. Further to my book on the Reso...I wonder if anyone can help me with some research I'm currently conducting. I'm looking for images of Rhyl taken in the 1960s. I'm particularly interested in views of the railway station and the H bridge and signal gantry at the Grange Road Bridge also the area of the sidings where Albert Gubay built one of the first Kwik Save stores. The Pavilion, Baths and Uncle Eric's would also be of interest as would pictures of Rhyl's "illuminations" which were not as big as Blackpool's but had a low carbon footprint ahead of its time! Any photos taken of the Reso would be particularly appreciated - if your family where anything like mine though, the camera was only brought out at holidays and a film was generally used up over a five year period - few thought to capture images of the estate where they lived. Any help appreciated.
Mon Jul 23 11:33:43 2007

Diana Davies née NICHOLAS
Have just enjoyed reading comments on this website, esp. those mentioning St Mary's Convent, Rhyl. I went there from 1945-1956. My younger sister did too. 'Anon' I remember the girls you mentioned. Maddy Jones, Joan Barnard. Got lots of photos of schoolmates, the building, the nuns and an old prospectus from the 1930s. Also a large collection of old Rhyl postcards! How I hated The Hat. As soon as possible I would roll it up and put it in my pocket. It soon had a pointed crown! Still have the hat badge, though!
Mon Jul 23 10:24:51 2007

Shelley Poole, Rhly, now Spain
I really look forward to read this site as the memories of my youth come floating back. When you read what everybody has written you can imagine yourself back in High St. Remember Fortes in High St? My friends Sally Brookes and Pat Williams went carol singing as you could make a few bob, decided to spend what we had made. They came with one of these aluminiun covers on the plates and we thought 'wow a banquet, strawberry milkshakes and sardines on toast' but when they took off the covers there were 3 tiny sardines on a doorstopper piece of toast - but it was great! Those were the days...
Fri Jul 13 08:50:55 2007

Richard Williams, Anglesey
Shelley/ Dave, Oh Vernons and the pennies, flip do remember! Dave, the Reservation! Crikey we must have bumped into each other at some time, yep the Rafa club too. Remember Mrs Noon too. Sidolis and the big Cornette, what a landmark that was. Elf and Safety, yer right, progress, I don't think so. Remember Colin Swallow and the Palace? As mentioned the Haven was another place to be on a Saturday night. Well Colin died not long ago. His wife Phillis (Beach) lives in Spain. Was friendly with my sister Lynda (Emanuel school) 7 years older than me, anyway Phil is coming back to the area in a couple of weeks for a reunion. So that's me, my brother John (Glyndwr about 53 til 58,) and my eldest bro David, now in the Bahamas, but all meeting in a couple of weeks. Eldest sis is in Canada and can't make it. We were all in a 2 bedroomed house in Ty Newydd road! Yep seven all together, til we moved into "New House" in Elwy Drive in 1947. Yep, luxury 3 bedrooms! Dave, saw an article ref the Little Train round the Lake has been re furbed, good news, good news too that the Voryd and area is to get some new life kicked into it. That should help. Spent many an hour messing about in the Harbour catching flounders and cold feet! Campinis lived just up the road from me. Pete Campini ran fishing trips and stuff until recently I believe. Used to dig black lugworm at Splash Point and sell it to Thornley's fishing tackle shop on Queen St and to Mrs Spiller at the garage by the Marine Lake. 3 pennies a worm was the going rate! Not bad if I could dig 50--- = almost a Quid, big money! So will be back to Rhyl to have a good look round with my sister and brothers in a couple of weeks. Will check out the Little Trains and all the old haunts, Julie I remember Maralyn but not Brian in the Tudor. The Tudor? What a hangout that was! Cheers, Rich!
Mon Jul 9 09:57:07 2007

Shelley Poole from Rhyl now Spain
Well, I thought that I had to add my bit. Does anyone remember the Vogue at the bottom end of High Street? It was next to Robert's bit of everything shop opposite the bus station. I used to get off the bus at the station and put sixpennce in the milk machine for my strawberry milk, then fly across the road to the Vogue. It was a Mrs Taylor who lived in Mallorca. Then it was quite a thing. My boss who managed the shop were Mrs Roberts and Mrs Noon. They were great to work for. They would send me with parcels to the post office which would take me hours as I would call in on my nan's shop which was at the top of High St, then pop down to Hudsons for fantastic doughnuts fresh from the oven - yes, those were the days. Can anybody remember the youth club around the back of the Town Hall? You could buy 1p ice lollies in winter on the corner of Boyle's fish shop. Anybody out there who can remember?
Fri Jul 6 08:52:06 2007

Jan Cannon from Lancaster, Ca. USA
I went to Glyndwr School for one year then was transferred to Ysgol Clawdd Offa in Prestatyn. I grew up in St Asaph along with my brother Alyn Williams and my sister Sylvia. I left Wales in 1969 to get married and emigrated to the US in 1972. I used to work at the Royal Alexandra Hospital from 1962 - 1969. I had an uncle Aneurin Evans who worked in the office of the Crosville Bus Co. My parents Phil and Marie Williams of St Asaph passed away many years ago, but remember them taking me on the train from St Asaph to Rhyl to go and play on the beach. My maiden name was Janetta Williams.
Wed Jul 4 08:24:18 2007

Joan Marshall
I just typed Rhyl Journal into the search engine and came upon this interesting site. I lived in Highfield Park for 22 years and attended St Mary's Convent. I have such happy memories of Rhyl and have been back a few times to visit family. Since then I have been working in Africa and 25 years in N.E Brazil as a missionary. I just loved the walks along splash point and the sand dunes long gone.
Mon Jul 2 08:20:19 2007

David Hughes
Regarding the little train around the Lake...The line and station have been refurbished and has recently been re-opened. If you go to : www.the railwaychannel you can watch a video of the re-opening ceremony - should bring back some memories.
Mon Jun 18 12:15:41 2007

Julie Dent, Hebden Bridge
Message for Paul Evans: My grandad was Frank Evans of 46 Crescent Road. I think you may have been in contact with my brother regarding the family tree but I would also be interested in hearing from you as well/finding out how iIcan contact you. I would be interested as to how much you have discovered.
Tue Jun 12 14:12:08 2007

Julie Bishop, Leicester
Hi, does anyone remember a Brian Traquire and Maralyn Green who both worked in Tudor Cafe, High Street, back in 1969?
Wed May 30 15:30:43 2007

David Hughes
Feels like I've come home reading this site!I've recently completed a book called The Reso (Ambrose Conway, Kingshart publishers - out June 2007) about growing up on the Reservation estate in the 1960s and it is strange how all the same memories keep coming up. The trains round the lake, ice cream at Sidoli's with the enormous model ice cream near the door - adults drinking frothy coffee whilst we had milk shakes. We always got our hot cross buns from Evans' on Good Friday when the whole town would be closed by lunchtime. I think every Rhyl lad must have tried his hand at casing at one time or another. Hot summers in the baths on the promenade were idyllic with the wind scouring you and the water temperature hovering around 50F - 'elf and safety would not allow it nowadays. I was at Emanuel until 1968 then Glyndwr for two years in the transition to the comprehensive and then on to the former Grammar School - there is a terrific series of whole year group photographs on the Friends Reunited site for people who were at the High School late Sixties / early Seventies. Glad to see some signs that the old town is moving ahead again after some years in the doldrums.
Thu May 10 08:34:58 2007

Shelley Poole from Spain
To Richard Williams: I had some great rides on the toast racks. I worked for my nan in the summer who had Poole's Stores the top of Queen St. On the corner was Robbins Cafe, the opposite side was Vernon's Arcade. Nan would give us some cash (Pennies) to play on the machines when we got bored. I went back to see old Rhyl and popped into the Arcade. Would you believe they still have the shooting range! I am sure they could get more with selling as an antique. Do you remember the paddling pool further along the front? I remember Dad taking us one cold winter's day to slide around on the ice. My Dad had Poole's of Rhyl cakes and biccies. I think that the cafe at the Marine lake was one of his calls. My nana's shop was a real gold mine as she would have everything hanging on the outside.
Fri Apr 27 08:54:03 2007

David Nash from Rhyl
Hello Brian Annable. Yes, I remember you well. We were in the Grammar School together. I decorated your father's house when you were in Lake Ave about 1967. I remember your mum and dad (Bill and Rose) with great affection, used to dance in the RAFA club Rhyl with them Saturday nights in the '70s. If I remember you went teaching, and had a sister who played the guitar. I had a group going in the late '60s about the district, played the Miners camp, Prestatyn Holiday Camp and Pier Colwyn Bay. It's a mess the Pier now, but at least they still have one as we lost ours years ago in Rhyl, along with the Pavilion - sad. I left Rhyl to live in Abergele coastal area, Belgrano in '94. It really saddens me to see the town go through a self destruction phase.
Tue Apr 17 09:18:35 2007

Richard Williams, Anglesey
To Shelley Poole. Showers? Don't remember showers. Only the ones off Ma Jones! Punch and Judy, don't know if the family who performed the show still exist. Remember it well though by the Clock. Living in Llanfair P G now and suprisingly saw one of the Little Train Engines that used to go round The Marine Lake on display in Pringles store in Llanfair which brought back lots of memories. Don't know what the heck it was doing in a jumped up tourist/clothes shop in Llanfair! Used to love that train trip as a little kid, thought it was magic. Worked on the Ghost Train one Summer and the "Hobby Horses" another year in the "Proper" Fair at the Marine Lake. Used to have some fun in the old Ghost Train down towards where the little motor boats were. Peter Watkins (also in Spain - what is it with you lot in Spain!) mentioned Mc Killop. My abiding memory of him was "Get off that bike". He used to shout if you cycled across the grass to get from the Grange Road end to the Vale Road end in a hurry! Thing is in those days you could borrow a football or cricket gear etc etc then take it back. For free! Don't think that system would work today! Used to like playing tennis on the shale courts too. Again for a small fee you could use all the gear. Great place the Coronation Gardens. Also handy for "Bunking" in to Belle Vue through the fence to watch the Lillywhites! Used to sell programnes for the match on Saturday sometimes, didn't make much money but got in for nowt again! Used to love football back then. Mathew Jones wrote in my school report in the final year "Richard must learn to realise there are more things in life than football"! That was his only comment. Do you remember "Dead Eye" Science? Only go back occasionally now, the place looks like it needs sorting,the town I mean. The school fence still has a bulge in it where I ran my old Austin into it one early morning after visiting a "Girlfriend" in Rhydwen Drive in the early 70s. Fell asleep at the wheel! Who was your PE Teacher? The boys had Brierly at the time. I remeber dancing lessons in the Assembly Hall if it was too wet to go on the playing field or a run around the School! It was like Old Time Ballroom dancing The Gay Gordons and stuff. One year me, Howard Rose, Keith Magnell and flip can't remember the other chap's name formed a group and played at the School Party. Oh yeah and a girl "backing group"! What class? You ask. Can't remember exactly Year One. The rest were 2n, 3n, 4n and was the Final Year 5x? Geography was Cooper. English for some years was a nce guy called Williams I think. Hastings was History, known as 1066 for obvious reasons. Bryn Williams, a big chap with a punishment called "Betsy" also did some Science and Gardening lessons I remember. Fortunately didn't seem to come across him too often, bit of a Rugby player I believe. Had one of those long photos of everybody but can't find it now. Pity, 'cos can remember all the names when I looked at it last. Peter Brew mentioned the May Day. I too seem to remember it went on forever, used to get quite excited waiting for the event. Remeber Evans's Cafe? A once a year treat there was chicken and chips! Another treat was a ride along the Prom on the "Open" Double Decker" or the Single Decker "Toast rack". Seem such simple pleasures now but exciting when you were about 7 years old. And the Illuminations I think they were Blacpool cast-offs but still fantastic back then. So most winters were spent kicking a football and most summer hols freezing in the baths! Heady days!
Fri Apr 13 10:53:18 2007

Dave Brooks from Liverpool
Wonderful memories of annual holidays in Rhyl in the early sixties. Always stayed at a campsite called Maes Gwylim.I can still hear the Calor Gas man shouting "Calor Gas man calling". Must take a drive back there, although I'm sure the campsite's well gone.
Thu Apr 12 11:25:40 2007

Shelley Poole from Rhyl now Spain
To Richard Williams: Hi Richard, nice to hear from you. Glad that you remember. What class where you in?Yyou made me laugh when you spoke about ma Jones! She did spit when she explained things. I have so many memories of Glyndwr, do you remeber the showers? Blimey, after a hockey game, we had to pass through all together (Girls) but it was so embarrassing - but that was then and now is now! Yeah, and Jenkins the music teacher, Stamp the history, and many more which I can't remember now. Do they still have The Punch and Judy show at the top of High street in Rhly or has that gone too? Drop me a line and tell me all the news.
Thu Apr 12 08:03:16 2007

Richard Williams
Shelly Poole, how are you? Lost this site and found it again! No good at computer stuff! Do I remember "Snowy, Jenks, Stamp, Ma Jones", Not 'alf! Snowy - Mathew Jones. They don't make 'em like that any more. Jenks, got on all right with him, liked music but you couldn't let on in those days!Stamp, yep remember him. Ma Jones, now there was a star! She used to get mad with me. Flip I was useless. She used to kinda spit when she got angry! Jeese those people were star characters. I would like to organise some kind of reunion. I notice on this site there is no provision for contact or have I missed something? Looking at all the stories about the baths, the cinemas (yes it was the Regal!) how do we get together? Great how everyone is spread about the world. Maybe the thought of "Snowy" made everyone leg it! Back to the Old Days, crikey did I ever think I'd say that! Back to the Good Old Days? Well maybe they were but I don't think we thought so at the time. Well I don't suppose you do! Seems there are no contact details on here but it would be nice to speak to people. So for the heck of it if anyone wants to contact me 07050 360006. "There could be trouble ahead"!
Tue Apr 10 09:55:34 2007

Maureen
Hi Jean from Prestatyn. I was at St Marys Convent and I'm hoping to hear any news about Norma Evans from Dyserth (or Meliden)whose parents had a pub (Eva and Cecil Evans)or any of the girls in our group. Norma married and moved to Chester I believe. Any contact with girls in this school in the early 50's would be great.
Tue Apr 10 09:14:40 2007

JoAnne Francis
I'm 32 & have lived in Rhyl all my life. Even I can remember a much nicer Rhyl. My grandad used to have a kiosk & cafe on the prom where QS/White rose centre is now. He used to sell loads of flip flops & 99 icecreams. This was later on in his life. My grandparents, Joe & Jenny Young originally came from Liverpool and when they came to Rhyl, Oakwood Road, they had holiday flatlets and the Regent ballroom above Burtons on the High Street. They were ballroom dancing teachers & British champions. The Beatles as well as other bands played at the Regent. Later on the ballroom became a bingo place & my nan used to be selling the books on the door. My mum Sandra & her brother Gary were both born & brought up in Rhyl going to Ysgol Llywelyn & the Rhyl Grammer school. It would be lovely if anyone had photos of my grandparents or the Regent ballroom or even the kiosk & cafe on the prom. I was very saddened recently when they pulled down the old baths to make way for Peacocks. When the builders were knocking it all down you could see all the original tiles. They want to pull down where the Queens Palace Theatre & ballroom were where the market is now and build another shopping mall. All the old things of Rhyl have gone, all the old theatres on the Prom, the Floral Hall, the Winter Gardens, the pier, the baths, the fair is being taken down as I write this. I think it would be lovely to restore, bring back to life something of the old. Underneath the Queens could be some of Little Venice that was there before the fire in 1907. I don't want to see another modern shopping mall in Rhyl. Can people who care aboout keeping something of the old Rhyl please email me with why we should restore the Queens and not moderise it so I can try and make a difference with a bit of support. Please help me! I am married to Steven Francis whose Dad and grandparents all were born and brought up in Rhyl.
Tue Apr 3 08:08:54 2007

Margaret Nicholl nee Rogers
I lived with my 2 brothers and a sister and my parents, Frank and Monica Rogers who managed the Imperial Hotel on Bodfor St from 1955 to 1957. I attended Ysgol Mair during that time. My eldest brother went there as well followed by Glyndwr and Rhyl Grammar School. I have some wonderful memories of that time.
Tue Mar 20 08:18:13 2007

Sylvia Calderbank, nee Brittain, Australia
I lived in Rhyl from when I was 4 to 16yrs old when my family emigrated to Australia in 1967. I went to Christ Church and Rhyl Grammar School. I loved Rhyl and on my 2nd return last year could not believe how they have ruined the promenade. What were they thinking! The house where I lived on the Coast Rd is still standing but the Links store that was opposite is now just a house. It was such a thrill to visit Rhyl again and when I saw the donkeys on the beach I couldn't believe my eyes. I used to watch them through the window at Rhyl Grammar School making their way to the beach and wishing I was going with them. I used to go to the Odeon cinema every Saturday for sixpence and had a great time. Happy days.
Fri Mar 16 15:20:16 2007

Peter Watkins, Costa Blanca
Glyn, the third cinema was in fact the Regal not Regent. I was born in Rhyl in 1944 and adored the town. When I visited a few years ago, I actually shed tears at what I saw.
Thu Mar 1 08:15:17 2007

Peter Watkins, Costa Blanca
What a brilliant site. I wish I could correspond with some of these people on this site. I loved Rhyl with a passion, having being born there in 1944. And then going on my own as a five year old to watch Rhyl win the Cheshire League. Someone mentioned Tom McKillop earlier in the piece. I believe he was a great wing half for Rhyl having come down from Glasgow. My cousin, who played for Rhyl, West Bromwich Albion and Wales told me how good McKillop was. But he was different at the Coros, chasing us if we did anything wrong. I pray to God the town can get back to how it was in the 40s and 50s. I was one of the first pupils at Ysgol Dewi Sant in Bath Street/Church Street in the late 40s.
Thu Mar 1 08:14:47 2007

Shelley Poole from Spain
Hi Pete (Gossie), I thought it must have been you. Hope it didn't upset you... how's life? Yes I have happy memories of Rhyl. Can you remember the cinemas? The Mickey Mouse Club and much more, the cleaners around the corner from the Vogue, Rhyl bus station, Palace Hotel, Chery Bee's and much more. No, I wouldn't change my memories of Rhyl for anything in the world.
Tue Feb 27 10:17:13 2007

Jane from Mold
Yes, Gloria I was Jane Kimpton sorry I spelt your surname incorrectly. I started on the same day as Marietta Njoku. She was an immediate star coming from such a faraway place. I, on the other hand, all red hair and freckles looked like a bespectacled Minnie The Minx. Got to go now will write again
Fri Feb 23 10:13:42 2007

Jane from Mold
For Gloria from Rhyl. Sorry about that. Had to close in a hurry. Things to do. Wow, we haven't seen eachother or spoken for 40 years, what a trip down memory lane. What has happened in your life?
Fri Feb 23 10:10:49 2007

Gloria Cavanagh from Rhyl
Hi Jane from Mold, you forgot Marrietta Njoku, remember the very tall girl from Nigeria? The Headmistress after Sister Angela was Sister Superior who we used to call "Sarge" What was your surname Jane? I can only remember Jane Kimpton.
Mon Feb 12 11:47:23 2007

Peter Brew, St Day, Cornwall
I was born in 1941, and spent the first ten years of my life at Abbey Street, Rhyl. My family ran a boarding house and my father worked on the railway. In those days, Rhyl was a wonderful place in which to grow up. Here are a few distant, but still very pleasant memories, of those times. We lived next to "Supreme Red Coaches", and I would often go for trips on the coaches, paying my fare by collecting tips for the driver on the way home. One of the drivers was Bob Parry, a real gentleman. Or you could go out for trips round the bay with Bob Gartsides' boats, "Duke of Edinburgh", and the smaller "Panther". A rival firm used to run the "May Queen", and I have recently discovered that she is presently the Falmouth to St Mawes ferry. In Abbey Street was Knowles Sweet Shop, and when dad came home at weekends we would buy dandelion and burdock pop or cream sode, and sweets, depending on whether or not you had saved up Ration Book Coupons! At the top of Abbey Street was Will Parkin's Open Air Theatre, and I recall such names as Vicky Burns, Tony Dalton, and Ted Lune appearing there. They were always praying for fine weather there, but the show went on, even if it rained. On Sunday evenings, they had community hymn singing there, and you could hear "Calon Lan" all over Rhyl. In those days, my sole transport was a metal scooter named "Maggie". I was quite a hefty lad and when it broke in half, I would go down the "entry" to Bill Greenings Garage, and he would weld it up for me. Next to his garage was Tom Kingston, "Practical Boot Repairer", and I would spend hours watching these craftsmen at work. I also have happy memories of Christ Church School in Aquarium Road, where Margaret Flavel and I were joint editors of the School Magazine one year. My teacher at that time was a Miss Foster - a real gem. I don't know why some chaps only made a pound "casing" - I found you could make eight to ten pounds, using your sister's pram, which was more than dad was getting on the railway! Perhaps I charged too much, although on reflection I didn't specify an amount - just looked hopeful! Does anyone remember May 1st? What a wonderful procession around the town - it seemed to go on for ever. And what about "Social Cycles", where two could sit side by side and pedal around the town - there wouldn't be any room for them, now. Well, I seem to got carried away by all this reminiscing; I hope it brings back a few memories for someone.
Fri Feb 9 16:04:10 2007

Norman Blackwell, Gt.Yarmouth
To Paul Evans, Kinmel Bay. Sorry, but I cannot recall your father, only remember your taid. My dad worked as a goods clerk for LMS Rly and we moved from Holywell to Rhyl in Sept 1930, - 20 Coventry Drive, newly built by P.M.Jones, cost a fortune- £500! I was 7yrs old and started school at the old Emmanuel in Vale Road for one term and then the new one in Victoria Road was opened. I come to North Wales fairly often, would like to meet up sometime for a live chat. I've got 'limitless' memories of Rhyl as it was - a really lovely family resort pre war and even the day trippers seemed to be respectable!
Thu Feb 8 07:26:51 2007

Peter from Rhyl
Shelley Poole, after 43yrs you don't remember my surname - that hurt! Do you remember the last year at Glynydwr School? Looks like your Nana's shop at the top of Queen St is getting a new facelift.
Tue Feb 6 08:21:40 2007

Shelley Poole Rhyl...Spain
Hi Peter, thanks for reminding me about working in a chippy! Yes, I worked one summer as a dish washer much to my Nan's dislike as she was quite upset. With that experience I went back to work for my Nan for my summer job with a rise and that wasn't a kick up the ... by the way! What is your surname?
Fri Feb 2 08:36:04 2007

Peter from Rhyl
Shelley Poole you forgot to say you worked at the chippy in Kinmel St, Rhyl, about 1965.
Mon Jan 29 10:14:25 2007

Shelley Poole from Rhyl (now Spain)
A message to Richard Williams from Angelsey. Hi I was brought up in Rhyl until I was 17 then my family moved to Dyserth. I was at Glyndwr, do you remember Snowy as we called him the headmaster? and Mr Jenkins the music teacher, Mr Stamp the History and ole Ma Jones the maths?? I was there until 1965. My grandmother had a big shop the top of Queen St Poole“s Stores in front was Vernon“s arcade and Robin“s corner cafe. I was in 1N in the first years then just went down. My name is Shelley Poole can anybody remember me?
Fri Jan 26 11:34:42 2007

Val Hines (Hughes), Nottingham
Andrew Hughes, I can't remember you but my sister might as she is 5 years older but went to Christ Church. Her name is Margaret Hughes, you might have played with her, we lived next to the bus garage on Crescent Road where I was born in 1951.
Wed Jan 17 09:16:17 2007

Jane from Mold
I was a pupil at St Mary's Covent from 1963-until it closed in 1967. Also in my class were Mary Lou Caldwell, Allyson Wallinger. Katy Owen, Fiona Hoggarth, Margaret Benson, Pamela Priddle, Jane Kimpton, Maria Kelly, Carmelle Vitti. Margaret Rochford, Cynthia Osbourne, Gloria Cavannah, Shirley Dugmore, Norah, Rose, Linda, Teachers:Sister Angela was the first head then Sister ??? (how could I forget) Miss Hudson,. Miss O'Malley.
Wed Jan 17 07:16:49 2007

Andrew Hughes, Leeds ex Rhyl
I lived in Lynwood Drive, Rhyl, from 1949 until 1958 moving to Chester. I also lived in Crescent Road (5) with my auntie (Ivy). My first school was St Mary's Convent, the Ysgol Mair. Had happy times in Rhyl, casing, roller skating, walking round Marine Lake, and watching the small trains. Not the same now but would go back to live anytime! Happy times. Val Hines know me?
Mon Jan 15 09:34:41 2007

Maggie & Roy Jenkins from the wonderful Sunny Rhyl
In response to Barbara Price (nee Livingstone). Hi, I just wanted to tell Barbara and others that the donkeys still get taken up to the beach in the summer, and they all go past the council offices. It is a lovely sight. There are children on bikes that lead them to the beach and home again, so although things change to some degree, some things remain similar. I also have been informed that there are ducks walking in file to the Brickfields. The Brickfields is a nature reserve, which was opened by Prince Charles. My husband and I have lived in Wales for approximately 13 years, and we have lived in Rhyl for the last six years. We love living in Rhyl, although we had some pre-conceptions before we came! We are Christians, and if it was left to us we would not have moved here, but it was God that brought us here, and we absolutely love it. I used to come here on holiday as a child from Manchester, and used to stay at the Robin Hood Camp in Prestatyn, just down the road. I have lovely memories of Rhyl as a child. I have lovely memories of Rhyl as an adult. Things are improving radically on the seafront at Rhyl. Rome was not built in a day. There are wonderful plans for Rhyl in the next few years, and it seems that regularly there are less boarded up places, and more exclusive places being built, including plans for an extra care sheltered housing scheme, managed by Denbighshire County Council, on the seafront. Imagine! We are looking forward to seeing massive improvements over the next few years! Lastly, how is Radcliffe? I bought my first house in Radcliffe on a pupil nurse's wage. I was training to become a Psychiatric nurse at Prestwich Hospital. y house cost £7000.00, and was no 64 Irwell St. Bye for now Maggie & Roy Jenkins.
Mon Jan 8 12:09:46 2007

Richard Williams from Anglesey.
Crikey! Just found this site what a belter. Born in 1947 lived in Elwy Drive. Christ Church then Glyndwr. What a place to grow up in the 50s. Did the whole gambit - "Casing" on Saturday, digging bait, anything for a few bob! The Downtown, the Nautique etc. Place looks a mess now but I think there are good plans ahead. Yep the Roma the picture houses the Pavillion. The Baths! flip must have spent half the Summer Hols in there (when not casing or digging bait etc etc) or playing footy in the Coorus (Coronation Gardens) Grange Road. Anyone remember Mr Mc Killop!? Back later.
Wed Jan 3 09:46:27 2007

Brian Annable. Michigan USA and Ontario Canada
Reading people's comments has brought back a flood of memories having grown up in Rhyl. I attended Ysgol Mair and Rhyl Grammar School. I was very involved in sports, especially football, and at different times lived on Rhuddlan Road, Lake Ave. and St Asaph St. I would be interested in hearing from anyone who grew up in Rhyl in the late 50s and early 60s. Thanks.
Mon Nov 20 10:15:17 2006

Janie Goldring from Southsea
To Barry Matthews Thanks so much for that I will follow it up it's wonderful that a site like this exsists I wish they had the same for Southsea. Again many thanks and if you are ever in Southsea we have the Florence Arms.Janie
Mon Nov 13 08:13:54 2006

Barbara Price (nee Livingstone) Radcliffe, Lancs
I was really pleased to find this site because I spent a lot of my childhood in Rhyl. I used to stay with my Nain and Taid (Elizabeth "Lil" and Joseph Ellis). They lived in Gwalia Ave, near the "bounds". It was one of my Taid`s favourite walks and we used to go "round the bounds" before tea. I remember paddling in the muddy puddles of the estuary and "smoking" a sweet cigarette while my Taid had his real one. We used to save household scraps for the pigs that lived on a farm nearby and sometimes took carrots for the donkeys that were stabled there. I went to Ysgol Emmanuel and later to Rhyl Grammar but then moved to Lancashire when I was 12. I often think of the times I spent in Rhyl, following the donkeys with their jingling harnesses all the way to the beach, making pretend station announcememts when I went to "work" with my Nain at the railway station, visiting the Odeon on Saturday mornings for the children`s matinee - I can even remember the song we used to sing there. I would love to get in touch with anyone who remembers the Ellis or Davies family and thanks again for this site
Fri Nov 10 08:22:05 2006

Tracey, Prestatyn
I lived in Rhyl for over 20 years, I now live in Prestatyn. I now found Rhyl a very depressing place to visit. As a child I went to Christ Church School it was situated on Aquarium Street before its move to Glyndwr School now Christ Church School. What wonderful memories I have of those days, my siblings and I lived on Weston Road and had no choice but to walk to school (I think I was only about 7 at the time as well), the days before parents took their children to school by car...I'm sure lots of you will remember those days eh! but there again I suppose it was safer then? It's a real shame things have to change. I'm sure there will be lots of you out there who'll remember the roller skating rink, the trampolines, bike park, butterfly palace, the outdoor swimming pool, I can even vaguely remember the Pavilion. On rare occasions or for a special treat we were taken to Summers Cafe, very posh for us, it was usually Forte's Cafe we went to. I spent some great times at the Dixie Land. My friends and I spent forever playing at the Marine Lake. The Labour Club Xmas Parties were so special, all the kids were treated to a film at the Odeon which included 'ice cream' (a treat then) followered by a goody bag and 50p. Oh I could go on and on about the good times I had when I was growing up in Rhyl it's a shame the children of today will never see the 'old Rhyl'. Why do things have to change for the worse?
Mon Oct 30 09:57:23 2006

Elvira Barratt from Rhyl
I moved to Rhyl in 1990. I wasn't over fond of the town but when I saw The oldest house Ty^n Rhyl on Vale road I just fell in love with it as I'm sure all previous owners have done. My husband David and I turned it into a business and over the years we have heard many stories from people that have dined or stayed with us who had grown up in Rhyl, left and returned to visit. All say what a lovely town it once was and all are saddened at the decline of what in their memory was a wonderful place to grow up in. I think there have been improvements over the last few years but it looks like a long haul to get it back to what it should be. It may always stay a deppressed area but over the years I have come to appreciate the good things Rhyl has to offer such as outstanding scenic beauty, nice beach, good roads with access to some great country. You are within reach of many cities and two airports. Ty^n Rhyl is a fabulous place to live in with all its history and I think Rhyl is not a bad place to be after all.
Tue Sep 12 14:52:37 2006

John Haden, West Mids
I have happy childhood memories of Rhyl, during the late fifties and into the sixties, we stayed in a caravan at the Golden Sands camp, which was I think the only camp that you did not have to cross the railway line that runs alongside the coastline to get to the beach. We were entertained by aunty Nancy and uncle Billy, anyone remember them?
Wed Sep 6 15:36:30 2006

Barbara Ferguson formerly Clark
I lived at Butterton Road from 1939ish to 1951 with my paternal grandparents. I too went to Christ Church but I have very little memories of the school, except an inscription stone set in the wall "The Fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom". Clearly I didn't pass the 11 plus because I ended up at Glyndwr Sec. Mod. Some teachers' names that I remember are Mr Elliot, English and Art, Mr Jenkins, Music, Mr Proffit, Geog. Miss Etchells, History and Games, Miss Jones, Maths, and the Headmaster, Mattew Jones. Some of the kids were Maureen Goodwin, Margaret Carrington, Sonia Brown, Muriel Mee, Maud Owen, Michael Macevoy. There was a Roberts family that I was pally with. Yes I remember the Tudor, but I thought it was off High St. by the Odeon, probably my memory playing tricks. Sidolis was a great ice cream parlour hang out, but nothing compared to the modern Fortes that opened on the High St. Does anyone remember O'Haras chippy by the Marine Lake? I also remember a small cafe/milk bar near to O'Haras with a juke box that had a record that I have only just(2006) tracked down 'Sacramento' which was the B side of 'My Resistance is Low' by Hoagy Carmichael. I too had a spare time job at the Lake aged 13yrs or so selling ice cream in a kiosk, where I learned to cut a sixpenny wafer in two and sell the half size for full price. There was a different moral ethos on the fair, they had their own rules. I Remember the Parker, Twigdon and Gubay families. I left in 1951 aged 18yrs with my boyfriend, who was one of two Canadian brothers Sid Ferguson who managed the Bright Spot Arcade(UKANKUMINANDHAVESUMFUN) at the top of High St. on the prom directly opposite the clock. We went to Manchester, then Morecambe, London and ended up near Blackburn, Lancashire. His brother Harry managed the Black Cat further along West Parade. I still have a sister and niece living in Rhyl, but I have never been back for years. So, thanks for the memories folks.
Wed Aug 30 09:37:48 2006

Louise Stanton nee Kennealey - Rhyl/Chester/Cape Town
How very nice to read about Rhyl. My family lived there from about 1949 to 1959 or 60. My parents had a boarding house in Lake Avenue and my dad, Johnny Kenneale, played trumpet at the Queen's Ballroom. I have only the fondest of memories of Rhyl, Christ Church Primary School and a short while at Rhyl Grammar School before we moved to Chester. I would love to hear from my age group, the baby boomers, I was born in 1947. I have bored my children and now grandchildren with stories of Rhyl, remember the Coronation Day street parties? I can't imagine a happier place to grow up, the beach, the Childrens Theatre Club, Marine Lake, so much fun. I don't think I'll ever visit Rhyl again so my memories won't change. Regards to all the fine citizens.
Mon Aug 21 11:32:33 2006

Valerie Lantau from Portugal
What memories! I remeber working in the Roma coffee bar one summer holliday...it was the year that Cliff Richard's record Summer Holiday was in the hit parade and always on the juke box. I cannot hear the song without the whiff of coffee and hamburgers returning to my nose. And all the happy hours in the Tudor! Ah such happy times, what a shame that Rhyl has gone the way it has but the memories remain and it is really good to know that there are others who treasure the same memories.
Tue Aug 8 16:01:36 2006

John Shepherd, Rockport Mass, USA
My family originated from Rhyl in the 19th century and many are still there in the catering industry; my Mother's cousin was the Mayor in the late 60s, I think. I remember many a good time 'casing' from the railway station. It was such a lovely place.
Wed Jul 19 07:55:49 2006

Lynda, USA
We lived on North Ave behind the Palace Hotel through the 50s, my Dad was a musician and played at the Ritz, it was a wonderful innocent time then. I can remember going to the baths with my friend Mary who lived on the prom and the water was sometimes high 40s!
Wed Jul 12 10:09:33 2006

Paul Evans, Kinmel Bay
Message for Norman Blackwell. Good to hear from you Norman. Just to clarify, my Gt Grandfather John was the bus driver, his eldest son was William (Bill) the garage foreman (his 2nd wife has just recently died). Another son, my Taid (Grandfather) Robert John was 'Johnny Tyres'. I have his indenture for the vulcanisation of rubber tyres dated 1920 (he would have been 15 years old). If you lived in Elwy Drive you would have known my father as a boy, he was born in Elwy Drive in 1937, Robert better known as Bobbie. Do you recall any stories from my Gt Grandfather John about him being the last horse drawn taxi owner/driver in Rhyl, according to his obituary. Incidently 3 of John's daughters-in-law are alive and well the oldest, living in Rhyl, is 96. I will ask my Dad if he remembers you.
Tue Jun 27 09:16:27 2006

Carley Jenkins, Rhyl
I think this is a brilliant site, I found it by accident. My granddad was brought up in Rhyl (Mike Jenkins), he has two brothers, Barry the oldest and Tony the youngest. Their dad was called Arthur and their mum Edith. From what I can make out they spent most of their time in the Galley Pub on Vale Road, while my grandad and his brothers went to the train station to take the suitcases. They lived on St David's square for a bit. Does anyone remember them?
Mon Jun 26 09:24:02 2006

Norman Blackwell now in Great Yarmouth
Message for Paul Evans. I well remember your Grandfather John Evans driving for Crosville, also Bill Evans who became Garage foreman and Johnny `Tyres` who I Ilived in Elwy Drive. I worked for Crosville from 1941 TO 1948 and remember very many of the old hands about half of them had worked for White Rose and thet used to regale us with tales of Joe Brookes
Thu Jun 22 08:00:37 2006

Barry Mathews, Rhyl
Janie Goldring from Southsea: Ray Locke owned and ran the jewellers on the corner of Cresent Road and Bedford street until a few years ago! He now lives down Green Avenue in Kinmel Bay with his wife. Not sure what her first name is! Great reading all these memories of Rhyl. It's got a long way to go before it's the place I remember growing up, but there has been improvement lately.
Wed Jun 14 14:26:54 2006

John Gray (Buckley Mug)
My first full time job was at the fun fair in Rhyl aged 16 in 1978/9? I use to cycle there and back from Holywell. 10am-10pm seven days a week. Disco music blasting my ears (I will never forget Goria Gaynor "I will survive"). I used to go home and hear the music ringing in my ears while trying to sleep. A pretty young granddaughter was sent to stand most of the day next to one of my stalls holding an enormous teddy bear. Everyone thought she had one it! No wonder the owners went to Spain each winter. Still, a fantastic experience.
Mon May 22 10:42:09 2006

Linda from Merseyside
I spent many many holidays in Rhyl in the 1960's/7o's. We stayed in John Street at the Sea View Flatlets owned by a Mr & Mrs Barnett. My nan used to look after them sometimes if Mrs Barnett needed to go to tend to her other properties. We spent most of our days on the beach, in the sandpit or the paddling pool, my young brother would religiously go at 2p.m. for the punch and judy and our treat was one night at the fairground. My nan liked to buy fruit from at stall at the seafront, and every year we bought pens and pencils from the Lifeboat which we used for school. It's sad to see Rhyl now so delapidated, although there is a fish resteraunt near to the fairground that does a mean fish and chip supper for a few pounds.
Wed Apr 12 08:15:01 2006

Anon
I've enjoyed reading about Rhyl - My grandparents lived in Bodelwyddan in the 40s & early 50s and I attended St Mary's convent. I remember Rhyl as it was then with affection. It had a certain raffish charm. I adored the cinemas especially the plaza - I remember the groups of Hungarian refugees standing disconsolately on the street corners - just after the Russian invasion. We were told by the nuns that on no account were we to speak to them. Not much chance as we were only allowed out in crocodiles encased in our navy coats and velour hats/ passion killers of the first water. My very first job in the school hols was on 'Beach trays' (aged 13 - imagine that now!)I wasn't very good at giving change - I was hopeless at maths - so was soon invited to leave. Next I worked in a milk bar near the Marine Lake fun fair. My friend Jackie who also worked at the milk bar and I spent most of our wages at the Fair. They were very happy days especially to someone of a very sheltered upbringing, a convent boarder from the age of six. Another favourite activity of mine - as a very hard up child (no pocket money) was scouring the prom for the famous Lobby Lud. I did once accost a harmless middle aged man with a peremptory 'you are Lobby Lud and I claimed the £5 prize'. 'Not me chum' he retorted sourly. I returned to Rhyl about 7 years ago en route for Snowdonia - and was very saddened at the decline of this once pleasant town. The Convent had been razed and ugly bungalows stretched for miles - even the beautiful sand dunes had been flattened and the whole place looked shabby and ugly. I would love to catch up with some of the girls who were my friends those long years ago. Maddy Jones; joan Barnard; Liz LLoyd Davies - are you out there somewhere? By the by whatever happened to Kinmel Camp next door to my grandparents house?
Thu Mar 23 23:11:05 2006

David Griffiths from Chesterfield
I lived in Handsworth Crescent, Rhyl, from about 1943-1946, & have some vivid memories. My Dad, Jack, was a barber in the town centre, & cut the hair of stars like Wee Georgie Wood & Henry Hall. Memories include having my photo taken with the 'V for Victory' cow at the end of WW2, which later appeared in the local paper, sitting in the cockpit of a plane, possibly a Spitfire, on the Promenade. Also hearing the sirens which warned us of approaching enemy bombers. Would love to hear from anyone who wants to share memories.
Thu Mar 16 14:57:55 2006

Stanley Worthy from Ravenswood West Australia
I was born in Rhyl in 1934 and left to come to Australia in 1952. Just came across this site and enjoy reading the many comments. Ray Jones you are quite correct the picture theatre in the high St was The Regal. The other two during my time there was The Plaza and the Odeon. Went to scool at Polars Prep. School then Christ Church and finally Rhyl Grammar School or was it Rhyl County School in 1945? Lots of memories, The Lilywhites (Rhyl football club)in their Golden years 1944-1952 My hero Don Spendlove, a great centre forward and so many other players in that great team! Does anyone remember the ice cream shop on the left hand side of the HIgh Street promenade end? Used to sell Horlicks ice cream. Have visited Rhyl in 1976, 1980 1990 and 1994 and certainly seen the many changes which in my opinion not all have been for the better.
Sat Feb 25 07:42:01 2006

Paul Evans, Kinmel Bay
Hello again Val, Unfortunately my Taid died in 1986, but I have asked my father who was a regular vistitor at his grandparents house and would have been 14 when you were born. He can remember the name but not much else. It is indeed a small world because Robin Jones who is mentioned a lot in this piece came to my Uncles funeral near Aberdare last December
Sat Feb 11 09:25:58 2006

Val Hines nee Hughes
Paul Evans thanks for leaving me a message.My father died in 1988 but I bet he did know your great grand parents. I do not know what number I was born at in cresent road but we were next to the bus place and my dad would have worked for crosvile as a conductor. I used to get lots of free rides.Does your grand father remember my father nick named Pen. Is he still alive?
Sat Jan 28 11:04:16 2006

Paul Evans,Kinmel Bay
Message for Val Hines My great grandparents John and Ellen Evans lived in 46 crescent Rd (1914-1953), John was a bus driver with the White Rose Co. and then Crosville, although he had retired in 1945 and died Dec 1952. I do not know if your father is alive but if he is would he remember John. His eldest son William(Bill) was also a driver and another son Robert John(My grandfather) was the tyre mechanic for White Rose and Crosville
Sat Jan 21 15:11:25 2006

Donna Taylor (nee Davies)once of Rhyl
I've really enjoyed reading about the old Rhyl although I don't remember some of it as it wasn't around when I was born (1969). I do remember the lovely prom you could walk along with the boating lakes, little paddling pool and outdoor swimming pool and skating rink, which has sadly all been replaced by more moden attractions. I spent many a year in the summer hols on the beach, until I got myself a summer job. I also go back to Rhyl every six months or so as most of my family still live there but each time I return it saddens me to see the place as it is now, still it's where I was born and bred and I'll always go back to visit no matter what as the memories are still there.
Tue Jan 17 10:58:33 2006

val hines nee hughes Nottingham
I really enjoyed reading your account of Rhyl in the early days. I was born in Crescent rd in 1951. My father was John Penryn Hughes ,nick named Pen.He was a conductor on the buses and then a caretaker of Ysgol Llewellyn were I went . I enjoyed living in Rhyl until we moved to Nottingham when I was 11 yrs in1962. I too went back last year but hate the way they have ruined the front and the new pavillion is the worst theatre I have ever seen. will look at this site again.
Sun Jan 15 14:33:47 2006

Jean Harris (nee Poole) Alberta,Canada
I lived in Rhyl in the war years, my father was away in the RAF. We lived on Grosvenor Av. my sister my mother and her maiden aunt who came from Snowdonia to help my mother.I went to school in Rhyl and I remember the long walk with a group of other children.My mother had been a nurse at the War Memorial hospital before she was married and we had the privilege of taking tea with Matron on special occasions. But the best memory for me was the May Day festivities, we had a May Queen, and her dress and crown and those of her attendants were always displayed in a local shop window before the day. I used to stand there and look at those beautiful clothes and dream of being May Queen one day, but in any case I moved away before I was an eligible age. We had wonderful May Day Parades with Morris Dancers and the Queen and attendants riding on a float. The other memories I have were, waiting for the Corona man to come to the house so that I could have my favourite dandelion and burdock drink, and also watching the steam roller flattening the new road surface outside our house.The other favourite memory was going to visit friends of my mother's who owned the Morville Hotel right on the sea front.I would go on Saturday nights and watch the old time dancing, or occasionally, even better, there would be a wedding reception and I would see the bride and bridesmaids in all their beautiful clothes.I am working on a scrapbook of my childhood memories so that is how I came to find this site, and couldn't resist adding my bit!
Sat Jan 7 04:26:22 2006

Nolan Webb from Japan
Would love to hear more about Rhyl. My great grandmother Elizabeth Ann Jones (born 1893) grew up in Rhyl in a big house on the sea that was used for a boarding house just like the one in the story. Her husband was a Swede who originally came to town and stayed in the house as a guest. Later they married and started a family in Canada. If anyone has heard or knows anything more about this story then please search for my name and Rhyl on genforum or rootsweb to get in touch.
Thu Dec 8 13:22:46 2005

Sylvy Bernhardt Sussex
Did anyone ever know of an Arthur James in or near Rhyl? He was a silent movie pianoist
Sun Nov 13 21:57:19 2005

Glyn Jones, Nakorn Nayok, Thailand
Ah yes, Pat, the Roma (where we could make a cup of coffe last an hour) the Tudor in the high street, the open air swimming pool with it's aqua-shows (when we had to get out of the water). And yes too the smells along the prom with all the hotdog stalls going full pelt. Yes, I remember the jazz club at the Bee down by the station - I think we used to go there largely because few of us had record players and we just wanted to hear the music (even though I wasn't a jazz fan). The Palace was the only place to go if you going to the Ritz ballroom. I remember it used to be quite 'posh' and we had to dress 'proper' to be let in there or the Ritz (suit and tie a must). Yes, the place has gone downhill a lot but hopefully it can pull itself back together again.
Wed Nov 2 09:51:57 2005

Pat from Rhyl/Oxford/back to Rhyl
Great memories of the Roma, the Ritz, the Tudor, all the noise and smells of the busy promenade and also of The Unity Cafe and the family who ran it! Some great parties held there. The roller skating rink and the open air swimming pool - 58 degrees on a good day! The Palace too was a very popular haunt. Does anyone remember the Jazz Club at the Bee Hotel? Having lived away, and returned to Rhyl, it's good to see familiar faces and places even if the changes have not been for the better. Maybe some of the places are suffering from "maturity" as indeed are all of us who can remember the late 50s and 6os through rose coloured glasses. Oh happy days. Glyn, I also remember Robin and yourself and your Mum who was a "character". Born and brought up in Rhyl I do feel sad to see it looking down at heel but I believe that things are now being done to better the town generally and I will say I have nothing but fondness for the place which has given me great memories and still now is my little corner of the world with family and friends around.
Wed Oct 26 23:43:09 2005

Moira Towell (nee Griffiths) Northamptonshire
Wonderful memories of the old place Glyn. Does anybody remember the Roma Coffee Bar on the prom? It was the "in" place to be seen in the 1950s. I also remember your brother Robin from Rhyl Grammar School days.
Thu May 26 14:12:43 2005

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