But how did we do it back in the 1970s? These photos offer a snapshot into what life was like in the resort during power cuts, when workers fought for pay through strike action and the depressing Winter of Discontent in 1978 and 1979. Trade unions were demanding pay rises above a government cap in efforts to control inflation. Petrol stations were closed, goods were not being delivered, rubbish was piling up in the streets and adding to the gloom was the coldest winter for 15 years. The decade famously endured blackouts – there were queues for candles and haircuts in the streets. One photo shows how staff at The Gazette printed it’s papers by torch light. Another incredible scene shows a band in a south shore pub lit by the headlights of a Mini.
In case you missed them: 16 retro scenes from Blackpool town centre which will take you right back to shopping as a teenager
1. How we coped with strikes and power cuts
A brazier helps keep out the cold for pickets at the Rigby Road cleansing department, in Blackpool, 1979 Photo: library
2. How we coped with strikes and power cuts
Deadlines to meet and a paper to get out - nothing stopped these Blackpool Evening Gazette typesetters as they worked on the stone by lamp light during the power cuts in 1972 Photo: staff
3. How we coped with strikes and power cuts
This was 1974. A winter of reckoning beckoned for farmers across the area. John and Patricia Gardner with their daughter Janet among the herd of fresians at their farm in Preesall Photo: National World
4. How we coped with strikes and power cuts
A woman breast feeding her newborn baby by candlelight during a blackout in 1970 Photo: Getty Images
5. How we coped with strikes and power cuts
A scene from strike action in Blackpool during The Winter of Discontent in 1979 Photo: Submit
6. How we coped with strikes and power cuts
More strike action in 1979 at Squires Gate industrial estate Photo: Submit