Southsea in Portsmouth was recently named by the Sunday Times on its list of the UK’s best coastal towns in which to reside.
In honour of that accolade, we’ve put together this retro gallery featuring some of the best photos taken in Southsea through the years.
This trip down memory lane includes stops at Southsea funfair on Clarence Pier, the old Debenhams store, and several much-loved pubs.
These timeless images show what a blast it is to live in Southsea, from riding rollercoasters to roasting potatoes on a bonfire, and of course, splashing about in the sea.
Huge crowds are seen turning out for a Radio 1 roadshow, youngsters are pictured at schools around the area, and Southsea’s community spirit shines through in photos of fun runs and other charity events.
The more bizarre photos within the gallery include a daring animal rescue, a motorcycling snowman causing minor mayhem, and a bouncy castle marriage proposal.
Do you see anyone you recognise in these pictures, and can you spot the very famous face enjoying a proud moment?
If you enjoyed these photos, you might like this look back at some of the best pictures from the 70s.
13. Spellbound
Magician Christopher Cox and Herbert the Duck hold the attention of children attending the under-five playgroup's Christmas party at the Brook Club, Southsea, in 1975 | The News Portsmouth
14. Santa
Although it was only the beginning of November, Father Christmas was suited and booted to meet dozens of children outside the Debenhams store in Southsea | The News Portsmouth
15. Miss Southsea
Miss Southsea, Maria Rice-Munday, aged 21, meets members of Portsmouth Field Gun Team at the Spar supermarket, Meon Road, Milton, as the shop sponsors the team for the annual Royal Tournament. Pictured from left to right alongside Maria, who is a martial artist, are David Beck, Stuart Hogg and Simon Price. | The News Portsmouth
16. Star pupils
Brothers Martin, left, and Jason Roberts of Southsea were among the youngest pupils ever to pass their GCSE exams in Spanish. Martin achieved his GCSE at the age of 12 and Jason gained a Grade A pass when he took the exam a year early at St Luke's School, Southsea. | The News Portsmouth