16/09/2026
FROM THE ARCHIVE – A LIVING MEMORY
This week, our archivist gave a presentation on Birnbeck Pier’s “Living Memory” period to a group in Weston-super-Mare — and one of the photographs sparked a wonderful personal connection.
A member of the audience recognised themselves in this image from 1979, which had previously been shared on Facebook.
The photograph captures them with their sibling, sitting on the rocks at one of their favourite places in Anchor Bay, accompanied by their Welsh Springer Spaniel, Cindy.
It is moments like this that show why preserving Birnbeck’s photographic archive is so important. These images are not simply records of buildings and places — they hold the memories, stories and experiences of generations of people who have known and loved Birnbeck.
There is also an interesting photographic detail in this image. Photographers sometimes use the “Rule of Red”, where even a relatively small area of red can draw the viewer’s eye and create a strong focal point within the composition.
Look closely and you can see that effect here, positioned around a third of the way into the photograph — the unmistakable nosecone of Concorde.
Do you recognise anyone, remember Anchor Bay during this period, or have photographs and memories of Birnbeck from the 1970s?
We would love to hear your stories. ❤️
Follow the Birnbeck Regeneration Trust as we continue to share the photographs, memories and stories that form part of Birnbeck’s remarkable history.
Find out more about our work at www.birnbeckregenerationtrust.org.
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