Brighton Pier

Originally (1823) the former named Palace Pier, situated on Madeira Drive, was primarily used as an old landing station for Dieppe bound passenger ships. The owners quickly realised its commercial value, and an entrance fee was introduced along with souvenirs/confectionery kiosks and entertainment stalls telling fortunes and selling silhouettes. In the 10 year period after its opening, the original pier was irreparably damaged through countless storms and was eventually sold to the Marine Palace & Pier Company. Unfortunately for them the following December saw it totally destroyed in a huge storm, and had to be totally restored.

Challenged by setbacks over next decade, the 'Palace Pier' was finally re-opened with a grand ceremony on the 20th May 1899; costing an unprecedented £27,000 to build.  In 1905 amusement machines such as' Punch Ball' machines and 'The Lady Palmists' were installed. A few years later in 1911 the concert hall had become a theatre, and a new bandstand was introduced to host free outdoor concerts in the summer months. 1928 the Messrs Lusse Brothers introduced the first 'Dodgems' into Britain, and within 4 years they were pride of place, along with the 'Big Wheel' on the deck of the pier. It wasn't until the 1980's that the new style virtual reality machines were introduced. 

The Palace Pier became Grade II listed on 20th August 1971.

Under the new ownership of 1984, major renovations took place and changes such as free entrance, free deckchair's and a new fish and chip restaurant were introduced. 
In 2000 the Palace Pier was renamed (by its current owners) to 'Brighton Pier', and still maintains its reputation of being one of the foremost piers in England boasting the newest gaming machines and thrill rides. 

Did you know: 

* Today the Brighton Pier is illuminated by no less than 67,000 energy saving light bulbs. 

* A bomb planted by the IRA near the pier in 1994 was defused by a controlled explosion

* The National Pier Society does not acknowledge the current name 'Brighton Pier' and its still registered with them as the Palace Pier. 

So this is Brighton !

All information is taken from and available at :

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brighton_Pier

http://www.brightonpier.co.uk

Images:

Laurel Alexandra Photography

'The Old Crocks'

London to Brighton veteran car run

'The Old Crocks' was established in 1896 and according to Wikipedia is the longest running motoring event in the world. 

Participants qualify by entering a car that was been built before 1905. The event has been fondly known for many years as the 'Old Crocks' ... why??? who knows?? Apparently the entrants dislike this nickname, preferring to use its official title.

The run has traditionally been held the first Sunday in every November. Not sure why, as most of the cars are open top and the South of England is renown for its temperamental weather around this time. Lucky for all concerned 2013 proved a lucky year.

Back in 1896, 33 cars set off from the Metropole Hotel, Central London and raced to the Metropole Hotel, Brighton. Only 14 entrants arrived. Many broke down along the way.

The run is no longer competitive and is now referred to as the London to Brighton Veteran 'Run', as apposed to 'race'. 

The route has also been modified slightly over the years and now starts at Hyde park, London and finishes close to the Metropole Brighton along Marine Parade. Where all the cars line up to be admired by fellow car enthusiasts and the general public alike. 

This year approximately 422 cars entered the run; the finishing results are still being tallied.