People needed to have fun and each town was determined to provide plenty. Dances and fun days, children’s choirs and the town’s silver band gave concerts and entertained locals and tourists alike. The Pleasure Beach, with its beautiful golden sand, remained open and free from the dangers of mines and barbed wire, and the shops and stalls flourished. There were Punch and Judy shows, swing boats and roundabouts on the sand, free entertainment from small groups of actors and clowns. Fancy dress competitions were always popular and talent shows brought out the most enthusiastic singers that ever faced an audience, plus a few brave comedians. Although most of the regular summer staff had moved on to war work, the tea rooms continued to open for business with older women and young girls taking their place. The town was a haven amid the tragedies and deprivations of war. It was a forced defiant gaiety during those wartime summers and Cecily worked with Dorothy and dozens of others, when her full schedule allowed, to help make them a success.
What do You think about Paint On The Smiles (2012)?
