Remembering Hartlepool’s royal celebrations

Published Monday, 23rd May 2022

There will be a fascinating look back at how Hartlepool celebrated royal events during The Queen’s reign in a special Platinum Jubilee exhibition at Community Hub Central in York Road.

Called ‘I Remember’, the free exhibition will run from Monday 30th May to Friday 24th June and will feature photographs, newspaper cuttings, memorabilia and personal reminiscences, including contributions from local residents.

Community Hub Assistant Rebecca Metcalfe with some of the items which will feature in the exhibition

Community Hub Assistant Rebecca Metcalfe with some of the items which will feature in the exhibition

Among the occasions in the spotlight will be the 1953 Coronation – when Hartlepool celebrated with parades and street parties – the 1977 Silver Jubilee, when the Queen visited the town, and later events including The Queen’s 1993 visit to open the Marina and Princess Anne’s 1970 visit to open Middleton Grange Shopping Centre.

Jamie Kelly, Hartlepool Borough Council’s Community Hubs Manager, said: “The exhibition will be a nostalgic trip down memory lane for those who lived through these remarkable events and an interesting experience for our younger residents.

“It also gives a remarkable insight into how things have changed over the past 70 years – when The Queen began her reign the average house price was £1,890 – equal to £38,800 in today’s prices – and a pint of beer was one shilling and three pence!”