A ‘pier back in time’: Cromer’s Seaside Special celebrates 40 years

Crowds flock to the seafront in Cromer for 'The Year of the Pier', dated 30th June 1996. Photo: Archant Library (Image: Archant Library)

With its offerings of candyfloss, arcade games and shows at the Pavilion Theatre, it's no wonder that this is one of the most popular attractions in the county.

The highlight of visiting the pier is arguably the Cromer Pier show, which will celebrate its 40th Anniversary when the show returns on June 24.

The pier has been a landmark in Cromer since 1391, and back then was nothing more than a 210ft wooden jetty.

In the coming years the original pier was swept away to be replaced by an even shorter 70ft pier in 1846. Even this didn't last long, and eventually in the early 20th century, a 500ft iron pier was built.

General view of Cromer taken from the forcourt, dated 5th September 1995. Photo: Archant Library

1936 saw the start of what would go on to be one of Cromer's crown jewels, with Richard Condon's SeaSide Special making its debut.

In 2000 the pier was awarded 'Pier of the Year' and has gone on from strength to strength ever since.

Here, we look back at some of the highlights.

The cast of Seaside Special 1992 at the Pavilion Theatre in Cromer, dated 15th June 1992. Photo: Archant Library (Image: Archant Library)

Cast of the Seaside Special '93 take a break from rehearsals to enjoy the sunshine on Cromer Pier, dated 16th June 1993. Photo: Archant Library (Image: Archant Library)

Curtain call for the cast of the Seaside Special 1991 - on stage for the start of rehearsals at the Pavilion Theatre, Cromer, dated 18th June 1991. Photo: Archant Library (Image: Archant Library)

The cast of the Seaside Special '90 assemble for the start of rehearsals at Cromer Pier, dated 18th June 1990. Photo: Archant Library (Image: Archant Library)

Spritza at Cromer pier. Photo: Archant Library (Image: Archant Library)

Spritza at Cromer pier. Photo: Archant Library (Image: Archant Library)

The Seaside Special 1989 cast on Cromer Pier. Picture: Archant

Put me among the girls! David Ransford of the Wedgwoods is flanked by Betty Ann and Hilary in the back row and the Pat Adams Dancers - Lee Reynolds, Linda Hering, Ros Murray and Julia Burnett during a break in rehearsals for the Seaside Special 1980 Show, which opens at the Pavilion Theatre, Cromer. Dated: July 22nd, 1980

The Dancers in the 1985 Seaside Special summer show at Cromer Pier Pavilion. From left: Sarah Clarkson, Louise Clifford and Kate Humphrey polish their steps for the opening night on June 29th. Dated: June 19th, 1985