Who can forget the sight of King Kong perched at the foot of Blackpool Tower? The massive – 85ft in fact – inflatable star came for the 90th birthday of Blackpool Tower. The giant ape was quite a sight, peering down on the people below and no doubt distracted one or two motorists along the Promenade. Some of the long gone shops are pictured and so is the dawn of a new era - when Houndshill opened. And there were urban issues too, abandoned cars and a derelict boating pool.
In case you missed them: 19 vanished Blackpool attractions lost through time including the Fun House and Rocket Tram
3. 1980s Blackpool
Houndshill Centre shortly before the official opening in 1980 showing the stairs leading to the upper level cafe. Also in the pic is Alan Boyson 's stainless steel frieze and ceiling lights | National World
5. 1980s Blackpool
A strange sight for Blackpool as a bulldozer clears a path for cars in the town centre, 1981 | National World
