A writer is appealing for anyone who remembers the famous Carltons department store based in Bridlington to contact him.
Author and researcher Humphrey Keenlyside is currently researching and writing the history of the iconic store and is hoping that some local residents will have a story to tell or pictures to share that outline the history of Carltons.
The historic building that stood in Bridlington town centre and was lauded as one of the top shopping venues in Yorkshire and attracted thousands of customers from the area and all over the country.
“I am writing a history of Carltons – the department store in Bridlington – which the family owned until 1969, when it was sold. The research is really for the benefit of the family. Mrs Carlton, who was married to Philip Carlton, is now 98 years-old and would like to have a history for the family.” explained Humphrey.
Carltons was situated on the site of what is now Boyes and before that Binns – between King Street and Chapel Street.
“Our principal intention is to produce a book, but the project also lends itself well to a dedicated website, which could be interactive. I am recording all interviews, so we could have clips of people speaking.” said Humphrey.
“I am endeavouring to reach anyone who worked in Carltons as well as people who have memories of shopping in Carltons. I have been told it was something akin to the department store featured in the BBC sitcom, – Are You Being Served, so there should be plenty of interesting stories.” he continued.
Sarah Hutchinson, who works in the local history and reference department of Bridlington Central Library is also keen to have the history recorded and is planning to arrange an event at the library to which people can visit to share their memories, pictures and memorabillia.
“One person I spoke to told me there was an incident in the 1950s when one of the shop drivers apparently drove a Carltons van off Sewerby Cliffs in a (failed) attempt to take his own life. I am not sure I would use that story, but it would be good to get more information.” added Humphrey.
Anyone who has any information and photographs on Carltons are asked to contact Humphrey via email on
humphrey@humphreykeenlyside.co.uk
