The timing of the article with regards Southend’s seafront shelter was astounding.

It came out on September 20 – and I have a picture taken exactly 100 years ago to the day.

However, strange is the statement that Belfairs park is inappropriate, according to Skipp.

I have to say their knowledge of Southend history appears to be limited.

In 1934, Southend Council decided to do a city beach project of that time. So as not to waste buildings and street furniture, it was decided to move the bandstand at Happy Valley and various street furniture and shelters to Belfairs Park.

The park then was famous, with its Harry Colt golf course, one of the most played, by people such as the ladies American open champion, Pam Barton, and others, champions such as Harry Vardon, James Braid – even the king was invited to play.

By 1938 the bandstand had been re-erected and stood where the riding for disabled is today at the park, but the Munich crisis intervened and the shelters stayed on the seafront.

Why? Well, they were needed for their main reason they were built.

the use as shelters was secondary.

They were strong points in defence against invasion.

As they say, the rest is history, the war changed many things and the shelters never moved.

Belfairs is the place were this last shelter will be of benefit to many bowlers and fit into the character of the park. Even if it’s 72 years late.

Councillor Stephen Aylen
Woodside
Leigh