These emotive pictures capture Blackpool through the grim years of 1914-1919
They focus on the years through the First World War to when peace time returned and the first annual celebration of the war's end in 1919. They remember the people, the women and children who came to Blackpool without their men for Wakes Week, soldiers training and the final days of peace before war broke out. They also focus on shops, streets and everyday life as the country fell under the grip of war.
The Kings Lancashire Military Hospital, Squires Gate Lane, airport site 1915. It was on the site of the aerodrome used during the First World War as a hospital
Richard Rimmer at the age of 20 is pictured receiving his Distinguished Conduct Medal for his bravery at the Battle of Loos in 1915 during World War One. The presentation took place prior to a charity football match at Bloomfield Road in Blackpool. He was a Fleetwood man
Wakes Weeks holidaymakers in 1917 were mainly women and children because the men were away fighting in the First World War. They are pictured arriving at Blackpool North Station in 1917
Blackpool and Fylde's great Tank Week in 1918, the last year of the Great War, when £1,119,679 was raised.
This picture of the tank, taken in Talbot Square, was kindly sent by A Shackleton and was first published in 1941
National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.