It Happened In Norwich: 1954-1973

A portrait of the civic and public life of Norwich in the 1950s, '60s and '70s.

Made by local amateur filmmaker Charles Scott, the film documents the civic and public life of Norwich over two decades. Beginning in 1954, and in black and white, Scott records the redevelopment and construction of shopping sites along Orford Place, as well as a city centre parade of elephants from the Bertram Mills Circus. Scott records a passing-out parade at Britannia Barracks, witnessed by soldiers' family and friends, and a group of dignitaries lead by Lord Mayor R.H. Mottram, and provides brief shots of the completed Orford Place shops in 1956. In March 1959, with Norwich City FC in the midst of a remarkable FA Cup run, Scott records the massive queues as football fans wait to purchase one of the 31,000 tickets released for the 6th round replay against Sheffield United. The colour section begins with action from the 1959 Royal Norfolk Show, with an array of livestock, horses, marching bands and parade vehicles, as well as a visit from the Queen Mother. Also shown is a visit to Norwich by the Band of the Grenadier Guard; 'Norwich Week' celebrations; a large school athletics carnival; an appearance by comedian Tommy Trinder, fresh from performing at the Windmill Theatre in Great Yarmouth; as well as a visit by the Band of the Coldstream Guards and more action from the Royal Norfolk Show. In 1969, Scott records a visit by the Menin Gate Buglers from Ypres, Belgium, who perform the 'Last Post' at the Norwich Cenotaph. The following year, a contingent of crew from the HMS Norfolk and the Band of the Royal Marines march through Norwich. Scott also captures a 1971 ceremony marking the death of Nurse Edith Cavell with a guard of honour by the 1st The Queens Dragoon Guards, and the 1972 visit by US airmen who served in East Anglia. Scott's film concludes in 1973, with Jarrolds department store celebrating 150 years on London Street, with people dressed in period costume leading a small street parade.

Featured Buildings

Britannia Barracks, Norwich; Curls Department Store (now Debenham's), Norwich; Windmill Theatre, Great Yarmouth; Norwich City Hall; Norwich Guild Hall; Norwich Cenotaph; Norwich Cathedral

Featured Events

Royal Norfolk Show, 1959; Norwich City FC 1958/59 FA Cup Run

Keywords

Agricultural shows; Celebrations; Football; Military; Military bands; Parades

Intertitles

1954 - After 12 years, work on the reconstruction of Orford Place shopping centre commences May 1st 1954 - Passing-out parade at Britannia Barracks The Lord Mayor (Mr R.H. Mottram) takes the salute 1956 sees the development of Orford Place complete. Yes and we still had a Traffic Policeman March 1st 1959 - BBC News Flash - At Norwich extra police called in to control queue for sale of cup-tie tickets for 6th round replay, Norwich City v Sheffield United. 'The Show Business' - 10 shots from this film was shown by Anglia Television at 10.30 pm June 26th 1972. Note the effect the eclipse had on the show. January 29th 1955 - Band of the Grenadier Guards visit the City. The Band of the Coldstream Guards heads the parades. Parade of all Heavy Turnouts... Sheep Dog Display by Mr. W. John Evans ... Parade of Cattle 19th Sept 1969 - Mr R.E. Carter invites the Menin Gate buglers to sound the 'Last Post' at our Cenotaph. Sunday July 19th 1970 - A contingent of the crew from H.M.S. Norfolk marched through Norwich headed by the band of the Royal Marines. Saturday October 16th 1971 - Nurse Edith Cavell shot by a German firing squad 56 years ago today The grey day was brightened by the scarlet & gold uniforms of the 1st Batt: the Queens Dragoon Guards which led a guards of honour in procession to the grave 1972 - Nostalgic visit was made to Norfolk for former U.S. fliers and their wives. May 21st 1972 - They attended a service at the Cathedral preached by the Bishop of Norwich the Rt. Rev. Maurice Wood. The civic coach brought the Lord and Lady Mayoress Mr and Mrs Dick Seabrook to the Cathedral. Filmed by C. Scott.

Other Places

Costessey, Norfolk; Great Yarmouth, Norfolk