Butlins Obituaries Back

Thanks to Ron Stanway (Former General Manager, Entertainment & Promotions for the Butlin Group) for providing the idea & provision of the initial information. Thanks also to various other people for providing corrections & updates to the information.

Needless to say that, when a company has had as many people work for it as Butlins has over the years, then, some of them will sadly no longer be with us. This page is designed to remember these people. If you wish to share your condolences and happy memories of working with any of these people or if you have some more names and details to add to the list then please send us an e-mail. It is envisaged that this list will possibly grow to a "Where are they now?" style list so if you have any further details to add then please do get in touch.

Sir William Butlin - 29th September 1899 to 12th June 1980

Click here to view our page on the early life of Bully Butlin & here to see our tribute to Sir Billy

Robert "Bobbie" Butlin - 30th April 1934 to 31st December 2008

Funeral held at Golders Green Crematorium on Friday 9th January 2009

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Bobby was born at Tiverton Devon on 30 April 1934 and at the tender age of five was sent to pre-prep school at Wooten-Under-Edge. He later attended Stowe School, Buckingham, where he excelled at a number of sports, representing the school at hockey and rugby. He first joined Butlins as a Redcoat during his school holidays in 1951. In 1952 he became eligible for National Service and served in the Army Catering Corps with the rank of second lieutenant. As an officer cadet during his training he was awarded the Sword of Honour. His career with Butlins began on his demob from the forces, in August 1954, when he became assistant stores manager at Ayr. He became a director of the company in 1960 and by 1972 took over the management of Butlins as managing director and he remained as MD after the takeover by Rank. Many improvements were made during this time, not the least being the transition to self catering, and the resultant saving of 25% in labour costs. He also took the brave decision to stop 'Block Teenage Bookings.' The son of Sir Billy proved himself to be a tower of strength before retiring from the company in 1984.

Sleep well Mr Robert. R.I.P"

Norman Bradford - 8th September 1909 to 12th May 1983

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"It's remarkable how all of us can, unintentionally, be guilty of forgetfulness and neglect. The name of Norman Bradford should be entered in Butlin's Memories with the same esteem, honour and respect that we afford Sir Billy and Robert Butlin.

It is a well known fact, carved forever into the history of Butlin's, that Norman Bradford was the very first Butlin Redcoat. During the first week of Skegness opening in 1936, Norman, "Because of his jovial, friendly manner," was told by Sir Billy, to liven the campers up a bit! Norman did this with enormous success and, on seeing this result, Billy immediately picked ten friendly members of the camp staff, five men and five girls and the famous Butlin Redcoats were born!

The writer is proud to have known at least some of them - Norman, Frank Cusworth, Kay Bury and Billy Ditchfield. They were all still active in my early years with the company and would regale me with their wonderful "pioneer" stories.

It was Norman who wrote the first 'Standing Instructions to Redcoats', and every single Redcoat who followed, or will follow in his wake should use these as a guide.

Again, the passing of time makes it difficult to be precise, but we have, at least put this formidable man's name on record.

Thank you, God bless you and 'Goodnight Camper!'"

Thanks to Renee Bradford, Norman's widow, for confirming the dates and letting us know that Norman was in Skegness when he died.

Ron Hayter - 3rd October 1913 to 29th September 1974

Thanks to Ron Stanway, Ron Hayter's Assistant General Manager 1968/1974, for providing the following details & tribute;

"Joining Butlin's shortly after WW2, Ron was made Entertainment Manager of the camp at Clacton - on - Sea for the 1949 season. He spent four years at Clacton, moving to Pwllheli for the 1953 season. It is believed he worked in Head Office during the years 1954/5 before returning to Pwllheli for the 1956/7 seasons.

After a spell in Head Office he held a newly created position in the late 50's as General Manager of a new camp at Bognor Regis which opened in 1960. He completed one season in this capacity, returning to the Entertainments Dept at Head Office the following year.

It was only when I was given winter work in Head Office, Oxford Street, London, ('63/'65) working in the Winter Weekends Booking Office, that I really got to know Ron Hayter. Prior to this our paths had rarely crossed. In July 1966 I was at the new camp on Barry Island when, due to the illness of Larry Knight, Entertainment Manager at Clacton, I was transferred to replace him as E.M. During this time Ron H was invaluable in helping me to adapt to my first position as Ents. Mngr.

Two years later (1968) now in my second year as E.M at Pwllheli, during a routine visit from Ron H he took me aside and invited me to become his Assistant at Head Office. At the time the Department was administered by two joint General Managers, under the direction of Colonel Basil Brown, Director of Entertainment. Frank Mansell was G.M. for the Theatrical and Musical requirements at all the camps and Ron Hayter was responsible for Redcoat Recruitment, Sports Equipment, Bingo, Filmed Horse Racing, Donkey Derbys, Butlin Sponsorship of Show Jumping and Pony Club Mounted Games and in conjunction with the Marketing Dept. he organised the semi finals of the major beauty competitions. I became a part of these responsibilities where we worked extremely well together and during which time a strong friendship was forged.

I was fortunate, that "Ron Hayter allowed me to work with him rather than for him" I said to Colonel Brown in response to his complement on a particular job we had done together. It was years later in 1974 that Ron Hayter was taken ill and became unable to work during the season. Thanks to his mentoring I was able to carry out all his responsibilities and was later reminded by Colonel Brown of my earlier words.

Ronald Hayter died on Sunday 28th September 1974 ironically the day after the last camp had closed for the season. Many have said that he deliberately delayed his departure until the season had been successfully completed.

My grateful thanks go to you Ron for your help, advice, encouragement and friendship over the many years we worked together. May he rest in peace.
From the other half of Butlin's, Two Ronnies."

Click on the image for a larger view

Anne Margaret Elizabeth Hayter - 1911 to 20th April 2000

Thanks to Shirley Lewis who became Senior Nursery Matron for the Butlin Group & Ron Stanway who was Asst. General Manager, Entertainment to Ron Hayter for providing the following details & tribute;

The picture shows Anne with some of 'her boys' at a Glamorous Grandmother Final at Minehead c1988. Pictured (left to right) are Tony Crosby, Alan Ridgway, Ron Stanway, Anne, Paul Rumke, Mike Rumke, 'Red' Bridgen.

"Anne, and her husband Ron, joined Butlin's within a few weeks of each other with Ron joining the Entertainment Dept. and Anne taking on a multitude of tasks for Bill Butlin who, in 1946 asked her to prepare a special facility for babies and the very young.

Anne was a great thinker and given a piece of paper and a pencil would plot and plan almost any task. Butlin's was gaining in popularity following the hostilities of WW2 and more and more families were enjoying the carefree style of the camps. So it came about that Anne took on this task to accommodate the under 2yrs, enabling mothers to enjoy their holiday.

She presented Bill Butlin with plans for a Nursery facility for the Clacton camp which was to open in 1947. Delighted with her ideas her plans were put into effect. As more and more thought was given to her plan it was agreed to include a crèche, an infants' feeding room, where the babies could be fed by their mother, put to sleep or play in the Nursery, whilst mother joined her husband for their meal in the main Dining Room. With the addition of a bottle preparation room, provision was made for various baby foods, orange juice and cod liver oil. The success of the new facility at Clacton prompted Billy Butlin to build Nurseries at Skegness and Filey with the age group now increased to under 5yrs. In 1948, with only 5 camps open, the Nurseries catered for 2,281 under 2yrs, in 1950 it had risen to 5,327 and with the new camps at Bognor and Minehead, in 1965, there were 11,000 catered for. The facilities now included pram and pushchair hire and a nappy laundry.

An evening Baby Crying service was added to the daytime nursery, allowing parents to register their babies/small children with the Nursery Nurse, giving the chalet number and details of their evening entertainment venues. Nursery nurses patrolled the chalet lines listening for babies crying upon which, the chalet number would be relayed to the appropriate venue.

In the theatre there were special Baby Crying Boards at the side of the stage where the relevant chalet number would be displayed.

At the launch of the Nursery, the staff were fitted with smart blue dresses and warm capes for the evening patrol. Anne Hayter was one of the first Matrons appointed when working on the same camp as husband Ron who was Entertainment Manager.

Anne's next brainwave was to plan for the care of older children. This was the birth of the Butlin Beaver Club formed for children 6 to under 9 and the 913 club for the 9 to under 14's.

When their days on the camps came to an end, Ron Hayter became full time at Head Office but Anne left the Company to open an antique shop in Kent. Anne had a good eye for a bargain and soon became well established.

Years later the Entertainments Dept. decided to gather all their Redcoat uniforms from all sites and create a central store where necessary repairs, cleaning and scrapping, could be carried out. Following the Redcoat Recruitment for the new season, Entertainment Managers submitted their uniform requirements to the Central Store located at the Butlin's Margate Hotels complex. As she lived nearby, Anne Hayter became Wardrobe Mistress, responsible for sorting, logging, ordering and despatching. This operation lasted a few years c.1968/70 after which it was decided to return the responsibility back to the Main Stores at the camps/hotels. This was Anne's last work for Butlin's.

In 1972 Anne and Ron bought Church Cottage in Puriton, Somerset in preparation for their retirement but used it only occasionally during this time. Ron never did reach his retirement, he died in September 1974.

Anne & Ron are interred together in a grave the other side of what was their garden wall.

Anne's efforts, on behalf of many thousands of babies, children and grateful parents, were appreciated then and for many years afterwards.

Rest in peace Anne you are now very much wiser than any of us.

From Shirley Lewis on behalf of all the Nursery Matrons & Nurses and Ron Stanway on behalf of the Entertainment Dept."

Barry Graham - died 1987

Redcoat 1966 to 1970 Pwllheli

Dave Butler - 1936 to 1996

Thanks to Rocky Mason & Ron Stanway for providing the following details & tributes;

"Dave Butler joined the company as a Redcoat at Pwllheli in 1960 and very soon after became established as professional comedian. In subsequent years he was the principal comic in the Revue Shows on the camps before starring in the popular TV series "The Comedians" which culminated in a weeks run at the famous London Palladium. Later in his career, Dave performed on cruise ships touring the world where his superb delivery in that soft Bristol accent endeared him to passengers.

Dave was working on the cruise ship Black Prince, sailing near Tenerife when his illness worsend and he was flown back to Britain.

He died of cancer some days later on Christmas Day 1996. He was accompanied back to Britain by his daughter Kyle who was working alongside him on the ship. Christine his wife, who was working on another cruise ship flew home from Casablanca.

Dave's other daughter, Danielle aged 25 at the time, had recently finished working at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre and said "her father had suffered stomach cancer for a while but his condition had deteriorated suddenly". She added "It is going to be very difficult for us, we were such a close team. We had a lot of respect for what dad had achieved"

Aged 58, Dave had appeared no less than 26 times in the Comedians TV Show between 1971 & 1974 alongside Bernard Manning and Tom O'Connor and the highlight of his career was an appearance before the Queen at the 1972 Royal Variety Performance.

The picture shows Dave in the flat cap, at Pwllheli in 1960 with fellow Redcoats, Derek Laurence, Duncan Menzies, Don Johnson, Andy ?, and Brian Coxhead.

Rest in peace, Dave"

Click on the image for a larger view

Patrick "Paddy" Jesson - 1918 to 1999

Redcoat Entertainer from 1954 to 1987

May "Irish" Jesson - 1920 to November 2008

Redcoat Entertainer from 1954 to 1987

"Paddy" and "Irish" worked professionally as Jesson & Farrelly

Thanks to Kennie Jones who had this to say about Paddy & May; "They were both 2 incredible characters, greatly missed by everyone."

Thanks to Kennie for supplying the following photos of Patrick & May. Click on each image for a larger view.

               

Kenneth Idle - 1926 to 2001

Thanks to Ron Stanway for providing the following details & tribute;

"Ken joined Butlin's as a Redcoat Entertainer and the lead member of The Verdi Trio. His wife, Mavis played accordion, Dave Sheard was on drums and Ken, the double bass. Ken later became a popular and well liked Entertainment Manager at Butlin's and served in this position at Brighton in 1963/1965/1967; Ayr in 1968 and Filey 1969. Ken's cheerful, bubbly personality endeared him to all his colleagues in the Entertainment Dept.

Rest in peace old friend."

Jimmy Noon M.B.E.- died 25th August 2004

Redcoat Entertainer, Accordionist, Organist, Piano Player and Musical Director

Thanks to Jimmy's son Mitchell for providing the following tribute;

"Jimmy Noon died on Wednesday 25th August 2004, aged 89 years. He made his first performance aged 4, and retired from music aged 80. He became well known as one half of the Capaldi Brothers - accordionists - with Carmino Capaldi. He and his brother Johnny then became the Noon Brothers and appeared on radio in the 1940's. The war curtailed Jim's radio career, but he was drafted into Stars in Battle Dress and spent the war armed only with his accordion under the command of Captain Jack Hawkins. At the end of the war Jimmy and Johnny were awarded the MBE for their war-time entertaining. But they never collected it because there was only one medal for two brothers! Jimmy then returned to Variety and toured the country, combining his stage act with the roll of Musical Director, he met his wife Lynda who was training in Ballet, but soon became the company soubrette. They later became Redcoats in 1957 and Jimmy spent over 40 years with Butlin's, there he met and influenced countless rising stars. He said that when he was born his Mother had been told he would be lucky in life, and he was. He died very peacefully. He leaves his wife Lynda, and his son Mitch, his daughter-in-law Angie, and grandsons Tom & Jo."

Thanks to Ron Stanway for providing the following photo of Jimmy, click on the image for a larger view.

Miss Jackie Brown - died 30th March 1999

Redcoat at the Hotels and later became Entertainment Manager at Scarborough

Donald Scott-Reid - 1923 to 1995

PRO & Press Officer at Bognor

Keith Perron - died December 1997

Thanks to Butlins Memories Forum member "CHR" for providing this tribute;

"Keith Perron from Devon who was a Redcoat at Minehead from 1978 progressing through to their (extrememly talented) video production man, assistant entertainments manager, and press officer, ending his Butlins career in the caravan sales department.

Sadly Keith died in his mid 40's in December of 1997. At his funeral his old friends reunited and wore Red & Whites for the last time to give him a Redcoat guard of honour. In 1998 old friends Mick Armitage and Sid Sims organised a reunion at Minehead to be held in his honour in order to raise funds to buy a brain scanner for the Plymouth hospital where he died of head injuries following a fall.

Keith was simply unforgettable, he had a unique sense of humour coupled with a razor sharp intellect and individual personal style. He used to say he only loved 3 things: His mum, cricket and Rod Stewart. He is much missed."

Thanks to Diana for providing the following tribute;

"I was delighted to locate this website as part of research for a book I want to create but so very sad to read that Keith Perrin who I worked with at Minehead 1984 had died suddenly.

I worked at Minehead as a Press Photographer and also lived a few doors up from Keith. We often had to attend the same events and competitions as at this time he was a video camerman alongside his assistant Terry Hunt. What a pair of wind up merchants. Keith would often in his dead pan manner give me incorrect information about competitions etc. I had never met anybody like him. He took absolute delight in being a professional wind-up. He probably played his Rod Stewart records so loud to cover his hysterical laughter in his chalet. He absolutely loved Butlins and it did not surprise me that he spent many years working there. I remember when the Royal Marines visited he went up in the Wessex helicopter and told me that he was going home to his parents for the weekend and they they dropped him at his house. A likely story I thought, but with Keith you never knew! I am very sorry to hear that his life was so short, he certainly lived it to the full."

Thanks to Kennie Jones for providing the following tribute;

"Here are a few photos (below) for my close friend, the late Keith Perron. I was one of the pallbearers at his funeral in my redcoat, also with Sid Simms, Paul Beckett, George Hamnett, Micky Armitage & Craig Holman. Keith was a very funny dry witted character who always made me laugh and as mentioned in the write up above, you had to understand his sense of humour."

Keith is included in the following photos with the group photo on the right also including Brett Cresswell. Click on each image for a larger view.

   

Brett Cresswell - 1930 to 14th January 1997

Redcoat later Entertainment Manager then Assistant to the General Manager Entertainments for the group

Brenda Cresswell (nee Maguire) - 1938 to 19th March 1997

Redcoat Radio Butlin Supervisor, then joined Accommodation Department Head Office

Brett & Brenda are buried together in the grave pictured below at St Mary's Churchyard, Felpham, Bognor Regis, click image for a larger view

Thanks to Leslie Melville for proving this tribute to both Brett & Brenda;

"Sad to see Brett & Brenda's grave in the Obituaries. I knew them both.

Brett when he had a magic act with Bobby Traynor (They were previously both assistants in the ealy 1950's to 'Ali Bey - The Great Arabian Wizard'), and then of course at Butlins. Brett went on to become Ents. Manager at Pwllheli etc.

I also worked with Bobby's wife, Anna at the Cliftonville hotels.

Brenda McGuire, a beautiful statuesque blonde, was Chief Radio Butlin Announcer at Bognor Regis in 1961 (I think).

Both died far too young."

Ted Rogers - 20th July 1935 to 2nd May 2001

Redcoat at the Ocean Hotel then became top professional comedian and TV Games Show host

Thanks to Rocky Mason & Ron Stanway for providing the following details & tribute;

"Ted joined Butlin's as a Redcoat in 1957 and worked at the Ocean Hotel, Brighton. He was an avid Danny Kaye fan and did a most lifelike impression of his idol. The following year Sir Billy Butlin personally invited Ted to join the Resident Revue Company for the season at Filey. After a few years his act turned more to straight comedy and then came TV Game Shows culminating in the enormously popular "3-2-1" with his side kick "Dusty Bin" and assisted by Mike Newman, another ex Butlin entertainer. During these years he did many shows for Butlin's in their "late Night Cabaret" and was always a 'sell-out'. Ron Stanway, organiser of the Butlin beauty competition Finals, used Ted both as a judge and compere on several occasions and he was extremely popular with competitors and audience alike. He was a Pro's Pro, loved by musicians, stage crew and Redcoats alike!

Keep 'em laughing Ted. You were one of the best.

Rest in peace Ted.
From: Rocky Mason, Ron Stanway and all the lads in Entertainments at Butlin's.

The photo shows Ted judging a Glamorous Grandmother Final, click for a larger view.

Tom "Knocker" White - 14th August 1921 to 16th October 2007

Redcoat & Deputy Entertainment Manager, Entertainments Dept

George Outram - 1920 to November 2008

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"George was born in Barking, Essex, and from childhood always excelled in sports. Joining the Army in 1939 he became a member of the Army Physical Training Corps (A.P.T.C.), later becoming a Sergeant P.T.I.

After his demob his love of sports drew him to Butlin's, and he joined as a Redcoat in 1947, very soon becoming a House Captain and then Chief Sports Organizer.

He was a member of the original Butlin Square Dance team, the caller was Wally Goodman and the team comprised of Kay Berry, Maggie Lemonde, Betty Blaxall, Shane Lavery, 'Knocker' White, Frank Brady and Al Harris.

Georgie did a great slapstick impression of Norman Wisdom, and performed it at the Royal Albert Hall Re-Unions. After meeting Redcoat Children's Aunty Glynis, they married in 1957, the honeymoon was spent at Butlin's Metropole Hotel, Blackpool.

As an Assistant Manager at Filey, in the late fifties, he boxed a number of exhibitions with Rocky Mason and Harry Griver. Glynis told us that just before he passed away, he was thrilled and delighted to receive telephone calls from "Redcoats From The Past" who had managed to locate him, they included Gerry Maxim, Ron Stanway, Dee Dee Pigott and Rocky Mason.....Rest in peace."

Russ Hamilton - 19th January 1932 to 11th October 2008

Thanks to Ron Stanway for providing the following details & tribute;

"Born as Ronald Hulme in Everton, Liverpool he was one of the first singer-songwriters of pop music and he was the first Liverpool artist to hit the United States music scene with his song "Rainbow" several years before the Beetles.

Working as a Redcoat at the Metropole Hotel, Blackpool, as a childrens entertainer, he used to sit for hours strumming his guitar and singing his enormous repertoire of songs written by himself. The kids loved it and all the parents too. Early in 1957 he recorded the songs "We Will Make Love" and "Rainbow" which was on the flip side. He was then transferred to the Butlin's camp at Clacton-on-Sea where he was followed by an adoring public all singing 'We Will Make Love'. On his day off he would go into Clacton town calling at any shop that sold records and ask for a copy of the record just to hear the shop assistant say "I'm sorry Sir we're sold out".

As the record sales increased and with it his popularity, he was sent by Butlin's to tour the camps. His career blossomed and obviously his days at Butlin's came to an end as his record topped the charts both here and in America but, surprisingly the A side was the popular one in UK and the B side the more popular in America. This was a unique situation as each song sold over a million copies and both reached 'Gold' status.

Russ' next self-written song "Wedding Ring" soon reached the Top 20 and in 1960 he was invited to Nashville Tennessee where he signed for MGM Records. Numerous songs, all by his own hand followed with titles such as "Gonna Find Me a Bluebird", "Little One", "I Still Belong To You", "I Had A Dream" were all quite popular but never reached the top.

When his career waned he returned to Butlin's where he spent three happy years, 1966/7/8 as Entertainment Manager at the Metropole Hotel, Blackpool.

Thanks Russ, for all those wonderful songs and the memories, from your Butlin colleagues.

Rest in peace."

The photo shows Russ Hamilton pictured outside his chalet at Clacton 1957 with Ron Stanway and Redcoat girls Tulah and Jan, click for a larger view.

Bill Martin - 1928 to October 2006

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Before joining Butlin's Bill had been an established comedian performing in the name of 'Billy Vinden' on radio's "Mid Day Music Halls" and "Workers Playtime".

Bill joined the company as an Entertainment Manager at the Ocean Hotel, Brighton in 1960. In 1961 & 2 he was at Ayr then moved to Pwllheli for the seasons 1963 to 1966. Another move to Clacton on Sea for the 1967/8; then in 1970/1 he was E.M at Bognor. After the 1971 season he became Assistant to Frank Mansell, General Manager, Entertainment, (Theatres and Music division). He left Butlin's about 2 years later and became Chief Scribe for the Grand Order of Water Rats.

Rest in peace, Bill."

Cliff Coulson - died 2005

Former Redcoat at Clacton on Sea 1956 & 1957

Kim Bennett - died September 2004

Former Redcoat Entertainer at Brighton & Margate in 1956, then Clacton on Sea 1957

Patrick Francis Reid - 13th February 1932 to 12th April 2008

Former Main Catering Superintendant then later Director of Main Catering and Retail Sales for the Butlin group

Click on the image for a larger view

Jack Allen - died 29th July 2009

Based in Head Office for many years, Jack was the Senior Catering Buyer for all the Butlin Main Centres, working under Pat Reid above.

Michael Deacon - died 2005

Former Chief Redcoat at Clacton 1966

Kenneth Frost - 1930 to 2005

Thanks to Johnny Ball, who was a Redcoat at Butlin's Pwllheli, with Ken Frost 1961/62, for providing the following details & tribute;

"Ken Frost was born in Wallasey and from an early age was singing in local clubs. At age 30 he became a Butlin Redcoat at Pwllheli and proved to be a very friendly and likeable chap and an immediate success in the Redcoat Show.

As a singer, he was a wonderful 'tune-smith' with the relaxed style reminiscent of Al Martino and Dick Haymes. Ken really only enjoyed the romantic ballads and these suited his personality very well. All the girls loved him very much indeed.

One fond memory I have of Ken was when he went wrong in his act in a Circus scene in the Redcaot Show and I was playing drums in the pit. He was singing that old tear jerker "The Clown Who Cried" The song tells the story of a clown who's new wife, on their wedding day, falls from the trapeze and is killed. The line he had to sing was "As from the sawdust ring my broken Rose was taken". But, on this one particular night he caught sight of me in the pit, got the lyric wrong and sang "As From the Broken Rose (now with panic in his eyes trying to correct it) They Took My Sawdust Bleeding". I collapsed over the drum kit and he finished his act convulsed – he couldn't see his way off stage for the tears in his eyes.

After Pwllheli, Ken moved to the Clacton on Sea camp and settled in the area. His singing kept him in demand all over Essex and Suffolk and he eventually married, made Clacton his permanent home and became father of a daughter.

Thanks for the lovely songs Ken and the warmth of your friendship. From your buddies: Johnny Ball, Ron Stanway, Alex McGowan, Dave Kessell."

Terry Davis - died April 2006

Redcoat at Filey c. 1958

Noel Hunter - died 1969

Former Entertainment Manager at Clacton on Sea 1954 to 1957

Stan Edwards - 10th December 1931 to 13th February 2009

Redcoat Entertainer at Clacton on Sea, seasons 1957/8/9.

Ron Stanway met Stan when he was a Redcoat at Clacton during the 1957 season. They only worked together for that one season as Ron was then moved to Pwllheli for 1958. Thanks to Ron for providing this tribute;

"Stan, I remember, was a Danny Kaye look-a-like and he did a very good cabaret act impersonating the great man. He completed three full seasons at Clacton and in 1958 was there with Roy Hudd and Cliff Richard.

It was during the 1959 season that he met Joan, a new Radio Butlin Announcer and it was love at first sight and they were married later that year.

Since the inroduction of Butlin Redcoat Reunions, Stan & Joan have been very good supporters and it was at the 2002 reunion at the Grand Hotel Scarborough, that I met up with Stan again after 45 years. We have kept in touch since, enjoying further reunions at Brighton and Scarborough.

Indeed, it was only in October last (2008) that Stan & I, together with other old Clacton redcoats from '56,7,8,9, all met up at Warners Littlecote Hotel, to celebrate the 50th Wedding anniversary of Bob & Sheila Just nee Mackenzie. Also there were Lee Parker nee Davies, Henri & Valerie Rouah nee Leopard.

Our thoughts are with Joan and family."

Patrick Cawley - died 2005

Former Redcoat at Skegness prior to moving to Pwllheli as Assistant Entertainment Manager in 1964. Patrick was laid to rest wearing his full Red & White uniform

Thanks to Colette Aspinall for providing this tribute;

"I met Patrick Cawley in 1964, He came to Pwllheli as one of the Assistant Managers to Bill Martin. (He and I clicked probably because we were both 'Southerners' everyone else seemed to be either from Midlands or North.)

1964 was Patrick's last season with Butlins, he had been at several camps before, I believe. I think he was at Skegness for more than one season. He showed me lots of old photos of him in Redcoat uniform when he was much younger. He and I stayed friends for 41 years until he died in 2005. Patrick worked for British Airways (mostly in USA ) for about 25 years after Butlins, in a sort of Customer Service role. Firstly New York I believe,and later at Los Angeles. Whenever Patrick was in London, we used to meet up, and he always talked about Butlins. We kept in touch by post or phone. After BA he worked for Royal Cruise Lines, and Later Saga on Cruise Ships. Again in a sort of 'Posh' Redcoat sort of role. He travelled all over the world and often brought me gifts from far flung places, and sent amazing postcards. He was a huge film fan, and during his time with BA he met some of his heroes. Stars who had been famous in the 50's. He had the largest collection of books from film and theatre I have ever seen, he also had loads of friends in the theatre. When in London he got to see all the top West End shows and the same on Broadway when in New York. He was a very popular and much loved friend to many. When He died I was allowed any of his books I wanted, many of them were autographed by film stars he met several times like Shelley Winters, Kirk Douglas, and Mary Martin etc. One time when I was in USA he took me to meet someone who was in the film South Pacific. After his death I suggested to Bernie, his partner that the books should be sold to a collector. After I had read the ones I had chosen I gave a few to the Cancer Research. I kept my favourites along with a few personal treasures and photos of him and I.

He and Bernie owned property in USA and UK. So summers were spent in the UK and winters in Palm Springs California. At one time they had a flat very near Kensington Palace. I met up with them often, in London. (I loved visiting Kensington, as that is where I was from.) I have Never known anyone who bought and sold property so many times and I always assumed that they made money that way, but the year he died, Patrick told me they never made a penny, in fact lost on almost every deal. They were just impulsive. Bernie now lives in Germany.

I don't know if any of the above is of interest to any of his old Redcoat chums, but he really loved working at Butlins. One thing you might want to mention though is that When he died he was buried in his Redcoat Uniform. I don't suppose that is Unique, but it certainly cheered me up, at a time when I was terribly sad."

Thanks to Andy King for providing this tribute and photos;

"I last saw Partrick at the Scarboro Redcoats Reunion in 2004 with his partner Bernie. Patrick was a very good Redcoat and a smashing person sorry to say l havent many photos of him, just the 1963 Redcoat Team Photo and one more."

Click each image for a larger view

   

Dave Moore - died 1997

Thanks to Nigel Jurgens who provided these details, "Former Redcoat and my entertainments manager at Pwllheli in 1978. Also ents manager at Clacton, Filey, Skegness and Bognor."

Dave can be seen in this Clacton Redcoat photo from 1970. Click on the image for a larger view

Lt. Colonel Basil Brown – 1901 to 1987

Director of Entertainment 1945 – 1970

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"'The Colonel' was, in 1943, Assistant Director to Army Services. He had a great love and knowledge of the entertainment business and quickly realised that a lot of the troops were talented entertainers. He decided to present them on a national scale and did this in the form of 'Stars In Battledress'. He enrolled the famous fim star, the late Jack Hawkins, as Commanding Officer and former Butlin entertainers, the late Jimmy Noon and Jimmy Charters were just two of the 'stars'.'The Colonel' was invited to join Billy Butlin to find and establish suitable venues for Entertainment Clubs and Leave Centres for troops coming back from the front for rest and recreation. These were called '21 Clubs', the name being taken from the 21st Army Group.

Colonel Brown and Billy Butln became great friends and, with the cessation of hostilities, 'The Colonel' became Director of Entertainment for Butlin's. For many years he had the reputation for being Billy Butlin's right hand man. On Sir Billy's retirement in 1968, 'The Colonel' became Managing Director and joint Chairman with Bobby Butlin.

I first met Colonel Brown, when I was boxing for the Services and he was President of The National Sporting Club, in York. When I later joined Butlin's 'The Colonel' recalled this and I noticed in particular he remarked, "I knew 'Rocky' when I was a member of the National Sporting Club" He did not say President! I think that sums up the modesty of Colone Basil Brown-the epitomy of a gentleman!!

Rest In Peace Sir."

Al Harris - died 2001

Redcoat, later becoming Entertainment Manager. Then Promotions Manager for the Butlin Group

Frank Mansell - died 18th September 1983, aged 67

Entertainment Manager, later Director of Entertainment for the Butlin Group

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Before joining Butlin's in c1951, Frank had gained a lot of experience as a double act with his wife Dizzie Leslie. They toured throughout the country for a number of years in theatre and cabaret. Mr Mansell later became what, in todays parlance, would be Road Manager, for the act Archie McCullagh. They were booked for a season in Revue, at Clacton camp, where Frank developed a lasting infatuation with Butlin's. After joining the Company he quickly rose to Enterainment Manager, and in that position ran the entertainment on the following camps, Ayr 1953 to 1955, Skegness 1956 to 1962, then Filey 1963 and 1964.

He was always respected as a popular and efficient Manager setting the highest standards for those who had to follow. It is my honest view that we all tried to emulate him but none of us quite succeeded! He left Filey to become General Manager of the Entertaiment Departments Theatrical Division, where he continued to be an enormous power in the Company. If at any time one of his redcoats or managers was finding something difficult or unpleasant they would be treated to his favourite expression, "You said you could do it when you wrote in!!" ........They don't make 'em like him any more.

Sleep well Mr M."

Dave O'Mahoney (Allen) - 6th July 1936 to 10th March 2005

Skegness Redcoat during 1955 to 1956 before becoming a comedian. Dave died in his sleep.

Thanks to Andy King for providing this tribute and photos;

"The Redcoat who made it - The Irish TV Comedian Dave Allen. I was a Redcoat with Dave (David Tynan O'Mahoney) at Skegness in 1955-56 before he became famous as a Comedian. I last met Dave when I was a theatre electrician at my Lincoln Theatre Royal and he appeared there in 1980, needless to say we had a good chat about our Butlin days and a few beers."

The 1956 Redcoat photo below includes Al Harris, Frank Mansell & Dave Allen. Click each image for a larger view

   

Johnny O'Mahoney

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Johnny O'Mahoney, the brother of the late Irish comedian Dave Allen, was the Chief Redcoat when I started at Filey in 1957. I took over from him in 1959 when, by his own volition he became the Camp Tramp and we were together until I was moved to Minehead in 1962. I became Entertainment Manager of Bognor in 1965, Johnny joined me as Camp Host.

Colonel Basil Brown, when Director Of Entertainments, voiced the opinion "When God made Redcoat Comedians he made Johnny O'Mahoney and then broke the mould!" It has taken me all of ten years to write a book on my experiences and such is my affection and respect for him that I have dedicated my book to him. Sadly he died in the most tragic of circumstances.

Rest in peace Johnny."

Keith Ellam - 10th February 1933 to 5th April 2003

Redcoat working at Filey, Bognor, Minehead, and the hotels at Brighton, Margate and Blackpool. Keith died in Australia.

Thanks to Ron Stanway for passing on these details on behalf of Wally Piggott. Ron had the pleasure to work with Wally Piggott for many seasons at Clacton & Pwllheli and they still keep in touch via email.

"Keith was a very popular Redcoat working at Filey, Bognor, Minehead, and the hotels at Brighton, Margate and Blackpool.

It was the winter season 1961/2 at the Ocean Hotel, Brighton when Keith teamed up as a double act with another long serving Redcoat called Wally Piggott. Mime Acts were very popular at the time and Wally & Keith entertained the Butlin guests and were very popular. As the act progressed, and at about the time they left Butlin's, they decided to have a stage name. Wally was the comedian of the pair and Keith the straight man - as Wally's name was Piggott the same as the jockey with the same name, he became Wally Lester and Keith (the straight man) became Keith Smart.

So, Lester & Smart were now professionals enjoying the show business life. Looking for more opportunity they emigrated to Australia in the early 60's and never looked back. Cabaret, Theatre & Television they soon became one of the country's most successful acts and this was home for the act which lasted for 40 years.

Wally tells us that they never once had a row...just a load of laughs! In April 2003, Wally & Keith hoped to attend the Redcoat Reunion which was being held at the Ocean Hotel Brighton but sadly, Keith passed away just a couple of weeks before they were due to travel. Wally naturally stayed behind to make all the arrangements and the opportunity to meet up with old friends was lost."

Thanks to Leslie Melville for providing this tribute;

"Very sad to see this. I knew Wally Piggott and Keith Ellam both at Butlins and in Club-land when they had become Lester & Smart. I worked with them several times and they were present (instrumental even) at the conception of my act with the Clairvoyant Hen - the story is on my website - scroll down to "Maurice Fogel, a Mindreading Chicken and Me!". There is quite a bit of other Butlin's related stuff in this story that you might find interesting.

But I actually knew Keith even longer. He was originally a Blackpool man and we were both recruited into the R.A.F together in 1951!"

Maurice Fogel - 1911 to 1981

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Maurice Jack Fogel, one of seven children, was born to a typical working class family in South London.

It is a great honour to be invited to write a short tribute to the man who in my view, and it's an opinion shared by many, was the greatest showman and mentalist the world has ever seen.

It has been said that when magicians caught a bullet in their teeth...he caught six! When magicians did rope tricks...he put a noose round his neck and jumped! When a magician ate a goldfish...Fogel would promise to eat a camper alive!! Old redcoats will remember with fondness his bowl of invisible fish from the Fiji isles. The bowl contained a few pebbles, a bit of plastic seaweed but no fish. It had a note asking campers not to feed the fish! Dozens of campers could be seen peering into the bowl in an attempt to see them!

To some people "The Amazing Fogel" was a mental wonder, to others an enigma who, for years strode the Butlin stage and stages of the world, reading people's minds and using his strange powers even to defy death.

He dared death with his famous 'Bullet Catch' presentation, he read minds and became a legend in his own time. Many in the magic business claim he was better even than Houdini, and most of the rest of the famous magicians of the time.

I am sure the world will never see his like again.

Dear Maurice - Rest in peace."

Paul Greves - died 1983

Theatre Orchestra Leader at Filey from 1958 for many years. His orchestra played in the theatre pit for all the shows and played the main ballroom on the dance bands night off. Also worked at Minehead.

Ron Stanway has this memory of Paul from 1963;

"I was Asst Ents Manager there, on duty in the ballroom one night and in civvies 'cos I was a manager. At about 10.15pm Paul announced a 'ladies Invitation Waltz' and I was asked to dance by a young lady who four years later in 1967, became my wife and later this year we celebrate our 42nd anniversary."

Colin 'Rocky' Mason, a former Redcoat and Entertainment Manager at Filey for over 20 years, provided this tribute;

"Paul Greves started at Filey in 1958 and I recall that the drummer he had engaged for the season failed to arrive. Fortunately, I had contacts in the music world back in my home town of Bradford and I was able to telephone and find a suitable drummer for Paul within a few hours.

Paul was very grateful and we remained friends until I was moved from Filey to Minehead in 1962; the Paul Greves Orchestra continued at Filey for many more years where they played for all the theatre shows, late night cabaret and covered the Viennese ballroon on the dance bands night off. Accompanying a multitude of stars over the years and then there was the world famous Butlin Dance Festivals and the Paul Greves Orchestra would be called on to play for many dance competitions.

In addition to serious side of music, Paul brought his band to the weekly Sunday Morning March Past, wearing funny hats and clothes. This was always a popular start to the week for the new holidaymakers who had only arrived the day before.

He was a well liked man and a good professional."

Tony Barron - 1930 to 10th March 2009

Singer at Mosney from the early 1970's until the camp closed in 2000.

Thanks to Tony's brother, Frank Barron for providing the following tribute;

"I'm not sure exactly when Tony started singing at Mosney but it was either 1973 or 1974. He first sang with the Neil Kearns Orchestra and played double bass and bass guitar in the ballroom for several years and subsequently formed his own band which also played in Dan Lowery's, a well known hostelry on the camp. He successfully continued to perform at both venues until the camp was closed down in 2000.

At Mosney he enjoyed performing and included the children in the ballroom activities before the 9pm 'kids out' time. Some of them (now Mums and Dads themselves) have since told me of the fabulous memories they have of the evening entertainment when Tony was on stage. In addition, they tell that he always made a special effort to make sure that those who were disabled were fully included in the proceedings.

Tony had toured the world with various orchestras and artists such as Mick Delahunty, Jack Barrett, Jimmy O'Dea etc. on more than one occasion, both prior to and after his Mosney stints. On one US tour he sang alongside Stan Getz who was then the number one jazz saxophone player in the world. He also became a good friend of Mayor Daly of Chicago, who was also a keen music enthusiast.

Out of season he played many venues and top hotels in Dublin, of which the Gresham, Burlington, Clarence and Jurys were only some.

He continued performing until the summer of 2008 when he decided to call it a day, although he was still much in demand. However at the age of 78 he felt was entitled to do so as he had been singing and performing since he was 7 years old. A mere 71 years, which by any standards was a phenomenal achievement.

In October last year he was diagnosed with a terminal illness and died on the 10th March 2009. According to the priest who conducted the service, his funeral was, "The best attended I've seen for a long long time and I've been doing this for many years." Many of those in the congregation were musicians, some being ex Mosney men.

As a tribute to him, his friends and colleagues from the world of music, some well into their 80's, came out of retirement and reformed as a Dixieland Jazz Band to play at his graveside. Looking down, I'm sure he would have loved that.

I was totally unaware of very high esteem in which he was held by his peers for his singing/musical ability and was regarded by them as someone who made his work on stage look natural and effortless and could create a marvellous sense of rapport with his audience. The stamp, they assure me, of a true professional.

He was probably one of the most laid back and unassuming people one could meet, and he lived his life exactly as he wanted. He never wanted lots of money although he could have earned a fortune from performing. His life was his music, simple as that, money was never the driving force. No matter how busy, he never refused to do a charity gig and invariably found time for any deserving and needy causes.

The occasional pint during the week was something he enjoyed but he was certainly never a heavy drinker. His Saturday flutter on the horses (he was so looking forward to the Cheltenham Festival but died on the first day of the meeting) and of course his ciggies, which eventually proved to be the cause of his illness.

As the last sibling, I have many photos of Tony taken at Mosney and many other venues, that I can look back on as a reminder of a great guy. He was loved and respected by many and all of us will miss him."

Thanks to Frank for proving these photos of his brother, click on each image for a larger view

               

Marten Tiffen - dates unknown

Thanks to Colin 'Rocky' Mason, a former Redcoat and Entertainment Manager at Filey for over 20 years, for providing this tribute;

'Rocky' Mason remembers Marten with affection as they worked together for many years at Filey and tells us that he, Marten, joined the Company as Entertainment Manager at the Margate Hotels in 1956. He was then moved to Filey where worked as Deputy to Wilfred Orange in 1957 and then took over as E.M. from 1958 to 1962 inclusive. Another move along the coast to Skegness for the 1963,4,5 seasons. During the winter months he was E.M at the hotels and completed his Butlin career at Bognor over the winter of 1965/6.

After Butlin's he became the Comptroller of the Longleat estate in Wiltshire working for the Marquis of Bath and became instrumental in helping to set-up the Longleat Safari Park as it is today. Some years later he married a school teacher in East Sussex and took work at the same school; sadly, we have no further knowledge of his whereabouts but he died many years ago.

Prior to joining Butlin's he had a wonderful start in the world of theatre playing in such West End shows as, 'Blue For A Boy' with Hy Hazell, 'Half-A-Sixpence', 'Zip Goes A Million' , and 'Charlie's Aunt' where he was considered to be one of the best 'Charlie's' ever.

Rest in peace Marten

Malcolm 'Mally' Watson - 1956 to 1998

Redcoat at Ayr and later at Pwllheli

Thanks to Valda Warwick for providing the details and who told us, "He was a great and popular Red."

Thanks to Kennie Jones for providing this tribute, "I had the pleasure of working with Mally at Pwllheli for the 10 years which I was there. He was a great Redcoat & barhost whom I learnt my trade from. He finished his career there at Pwllheli working for Rank Amusements, everyone knew Mally, greatly missed by all."

Below are pictures of Mally supplied by both Valda & Kennie. Click on each image for a larger view.

           

Bryn Peters - dates unknown

Ayr Compere in 1979 & 1980 who is believed to have later moved on to Barry Island

Thanks to Valda Warwick for providing the details and who told us, "He was a real nice bloke, a bit of a cheeky chappie but lovely with it. He certainly deserves to be on our page."

Thanks also to Keith Williams for providing the following tribute;

"Bryn and I were best friends and his sudden tragic passing robbed the entertainment industry of a great guy, a wonderful husband, and a very talented entertainer.

I worked with Bryn for many years. This was circa 1985-86-87-88-89. In those days we were both living in Romford in Essex. Bryn, during those years, was always working, he was in high demand and worked mainly for Wally Dent Entertainments out of Surrey and John Howe Entertainments. He worked the Butlins and Haven Leisure circuit for a few years.

He was extremely popular with everyone, and as a good friend, my mentor. Bryn and I, as I mentioned, did a lot of variety shows back in those days. I would go out, sing a few romantic songs for the ladies and Bryn would follow it up with side splitting comedy. Bryn was not a Blue Comic but his brand of comedy was such, that from the moment he stepped on stage he commanded his audience. Everyone loved him. I guess you would call him "Risque" by today's standards.

I left to work in the United States for Carnival Cruise Lines in 1990 and lost touch with him. I knew he was busy and he was starting to make it into the "Big Time" doing more Theaters and corporate work. He was still, according to my sources, working the Summer Season circuit and the more prestigious night clubs. Lakside Country Club in Frimly Green was one that comes to mind.

I tried to keep in touch, as best I could, although he was not one for letter writing, as E-mail and computers were not as popular then, as they are today. I think, if memory serves, it may have been 91 or 92 when I got the word from a mutual friend he had suddenly passed away. I was devastated at the news but could not make it back to England for the Funeral owing to cruise commitments in the Caribbean.

Apparently Bryn had been on Summer Season in the south of England and was working in Portsmouth, his home town. He was staying with his father at the time, I seem to recall. According to friends stories he had not been feeling well. He complained of pains in his stomach so his father suggested he should go to the doctor. After examination it was decided he should be given a shot just to relax him, which was administered by the Doctor. As he left the Doctor's Office he collapsed in the waiting room and died shortly after-wards. It was subsequently found out his body had an allergic reaction to the shot administered.

He was gone. According to reports he'd had a heart attack. Bryn had remarried a few years earlier and had a little girl. He loved kids and always wanted one of his own. I never got to meet his new wife nor meet is daughter which was a real shame.

I am sure, had he lived, Bryn would have become a house hold name like Jim Davidson, Jim Bowen etc. Like I said, a tragic loss not only for his family and friends but to the entertainment community in general.

I am now living in Northern California but my memories are still strong."

Thanks to Valda for supplying this picture of Bryn, click on the image for a larger view

Colin. F. 'Johnnie' Johnson - 26th September 1919 to 18th June 1994

Entertainment Manager 1955 to 1961 incl.
Bookings Executive then National Sales Manager 1962 to 1984

Ron Stanway worked for 'Johnnie' Johnson at Pwllheli and again in London Office during the winter months. Thanks to Ron for providing the details and for this tribute;

"'Johnnie' joined the company after WW2 after he left the armed forces. It is thought he worked within the Entertainment Dept during those early years but later records show he became Entertainment Manager at Pwllheli in 1955, a job he shared with another Entertainment Manager, Alec Brown. It was then considered necessary to have two E.M's there for the simple reason that the Pwllheli Camp was split into two by the main railway line to Pwllheli. It was a plan doomed to failure and was never repeated. In 1956 and 1957 he was Entertainment Manager at Ayr but returned to Pwllheli as E.M. 1958 to 1961.

It was at the Butlin Albert Hall Reunion in the winter of '57/'58 that I first met 'Johnnie'. I had just completed my fourth season at Clacton as a Redcoat and at the reunion, 'Johnnie' took me aside to tell me that he had just been made Entertainment Manager at Pwllheli for the '58 season and, as many of their previous staff were not returning, he had been given permission to recruit redcoats from other sites. I readily agreed to the change and had two very happy seasons there in red & whites.

Back at the Royal Albert Hall Reunion in the winter months of '59/'60, 'Johnnie' asked me to consider a change of job; 'Knocker' White who had been Deputy Entertainment Manager for several years had resigned from Butlins and I was asked if I would discard my red & whites and take over as D.E.M. for the 1960 season and we worked together for the next three years.

We kept together during the winter months too when we moved to the old Head Office in Oxford Street, London to work in the Winter Weekends office. 'Johnnie' ran the department and I, along with three others, made the bookings for the weekends at Brighton, Blackpool, Margate, Bognor and Clacton.

Our paths separated in 1962 when 'Johnnie' changed from Entertainments Dept. to Bookings Dept based at Head Office; he served several years in this role then became National Sales Manager up to his retirement in about 1984.

My own career with the company owes alot to 'Johnnie' Johnson who was a valuable guiding hand during those early years of my management role. His attention to detail and advance planning soon rubbed off and in later years when I became General Manager, Entertainment and Promotions, I was able to cope with the added responsibility and resulting paperwork much easier thanks to his methods still being in my mind.

Thank you Johnnie and may you rest in peace."

Jim Lord - died 28th May 2009

Pwllheli Redcoat 1966 & 1967

Thank to Dave Sansome for providing the following tribute;

"A tribute to a friend.
Is it the final curtain..I think not dear friend.
For beyond the end of show
Is the beginning not the end.

Goodnight Campers see you in the morning.
To James Lord my friend.

Dave Sansome"

Thanks to Ron Stanway for providing the following tribute;

"Jim worked for me at Pwllheli in 1967 and was a very popular, hard working chap with a splendid personality for the job.

It was my great pleasure to meet Jim again at a Redcoat Reunion at Scarborough in 2004 and I attach a photograph of him taken with 'Scottie' (Diana Scott as she was in 1967 and who had travelled from her home in Australia to be with us at the Reunion).

Rest in Peace Jim, you are now wiser than any of us.

Ron & Sheila Stanway"

Click on the image for a larger view

Gus (Ernest Charles) Britton M.B.E. - dates unknown

Thanks to Ron Stanway & Rocky Mason for providing the following information & tribute;

"Gus Britten spent many years as a Redcoat at Butlin's following service as a Sub-Mariner and it is thought that his first season was 1947 at Pwllheli and the Redcoat group photograph for that year shows him clearly. Working at various camps during the summer and hotels for the winter months he completed many seasons up to and including 1966. During this time he worked as General Duty Redcoat, Chief Redcoat and, Lifeguard/Swimming Instructor. Some years he took other employment but regularly came back to the Camps.

One of the alternative jobs he undertook was in 1959 and that of Booking Operator for the Pleasure Flights, operating from the Broomhall Estate near the Pwllheli camp. Flights over the camp and the Llynn Peninsula were very popular and there was ample opportunity to see the splendour of Snowdonia. The Butlin guests were collected outside Main Reception and transported to the airstrip by mini bus.

Gus was selected to Captain a wooden built replica of a Viking ship to enable a team to retrace voyages the Vikings had made around the world. However, on reaching Spanish shores Gus burned the boat after declaring it unseaworthy.

When his Butlin days finally ended, Gus returned to his first love of submarines and became an Underwater Instructor at the special submarine school at Gosport, Hampshire.

We regret that no further information is available but hope that visitors to this website will add further tributes and dates. He is remembered with affection from his old colleagues, Rocky Mason and Ron Stanway."

Thanks to Sylvia Endacott for advising us that Gus was presented with an M.B.E. in 1995 for his services to the Submarine Museum.

Below is a photo from 1959, provided by Ron Stanway, which shows Gus filling up the aeroplane assisted by Ron. Click on the image for a larger view.

Anthony John Bilton - 26th May 1962 to 25th September 2004

Thanks to Kennie Jones for providing the following information & tribute;

"I first worked with Anthony at the Butlins Redcoat Fiesta in 1980 at Minehead to celebrate the life of Billy Butlin. Anthony was a multi talented singer from the Skegness camp who was the overall winner of the search for the most outstanding talent of the week at Minehead. He later returned to work with me again as a Redcoat compere and entertainer at Pwllheli in 1986 through to the end of the 80's. He came back to sing at my wedding in Pwllheli in 1991. Anthony will always be remembered by many as the man with the voice. He is sadly missed by many, family and friends, take a bow Anthony... r.i.p"

Below are various photos, supplied by Kennie Jones, which show Anthony & his grave. Click on each image for a larger view.

               

Paul John Cox - 18th April 1961 to 25th January 2002

Pwllheli Redcoat. Thanks to Kennie Jones for providing the following tribute;

"Paul was a Red at Pwllheli with me from 1982-88. Paul was a lovable lad who loved life, he was a great drummer in his own town of Marston Green where he was a member of a band. Paul leaves his girlfriend and 3 children. Greatly missed."

Below are various photos of Paul, supplied by Kennie. Click on each image for a larger view.

           

Drew McNair - died January 2006

Redcoat & Show Red at Minehead from 1999 to 2000 & Bognor from 2001 to November 2004, he was 24 when he died in January 2005.

Thanks to Sharisse de Silva for supplying the details & the following photos which show Drew during his time at Butlins. Click on each image for a larger view.

           

Wally Goodman

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Before joining Butlin's Wally had spent some time in Canada, in the 'Big Band' era, as an orchestra leader. He joined Butlin's at the end of the war and, after just one season as Entertainment Manager, at Filey, in 1945, his ability and potential contribution to the Company was soon recognised and he was appointed as Personal Assistant to Lt.Colonel Basil Brown. Wally had a wealth of knowledge on music, theatre and every branch of the business. After a long term friendship with Maggie Lamonde, the Senior Butlin Hostess, they married and spent the evening of their lives together.

Mr Goodman was a tough but kindly person who would offer a sympathetic ear to anyone from a Senior Manager to the newest Redcoat. His motto was always 'Fair Play' and it was a privilege to have known him and worked for him.

Fond memories. Rest together in peace Mr Goodman and Maggie."

Maggie Lamonde

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"The passing of time makes it difficult to be precise with certain dates. We know, from photographs, that Maggie joined the company shortly after the Second World War. The earliest photograph's of Maggie are at the Royal Albert Hall and Brighton soon after Butlin's acquisition of the Ocean Hotel.

Maggie, who had a vivacious and friendly personality, quickly became a Chief Hostess. On the retirement of the acclaimed Kay Bury, Maggie took over as Senior Hostess for Butlin's.

Wally Goodman, the assistant to Colonel Basil Brown, Director of Entertainment, and Maggie became very close friends. Over many years, this developed into a romance and Maggie and Wally, were eventually married and are now buried close together in London.

Fondest memories Maggie. God bless and RIP."

Michael Holliday - 1925 to 1963

Thanks to Ron Stanway for providing the following details & tribute;

"At Clacton - 0n -Sea in 1955 the Eric Winstone Orchestra played for dancing in the Viennese Ballroom. The band vocalists were June Marlow (who later joined the Squadronaires) and Michael Holliday, a Liverpool lad. June & Michael were well supported vocally by Colin Prince who played the Double Bass in the band. I was a Redcoat at the time and well remember the popularity of this trio with solo's and duets - I remember Colin, who was taller than his Bass and Mike much, much shorter, would sing a duet then, to get off stage, Colin would bend his right forearm up and Mike would jump up and sit on his arm and be carried off into the wings.

It was in August that year that on the bands day off, Michael made his first recording and "Yellow Rose Of Texas" brought the name Michael Holliday to the fore. It was however the following year that Mike hit the charts with his second recording "Gal With The Yella Shoes". Mike's biggest hit was "Story of My Life" recorded in December 1957 and which topped the charts for three weeks in January 1958.

A BBC, TV series called "Relax With Michael Holliday" began in January 1958 and regular slots in the music charts kept his name to the fore. Britain's answer to Perry Como some said! In the 1960's Mike was constantly in the charts with titles such as "Dream Talk", "Stairway Of Love" and, "Palace Of Love". More songs were recorded in 1962 and early in 1963 a new BBC, TV series "Holliday at Home" was introduced. This was to be Mike's last TV series and as 1963 moved into Autumn, Mike cut his last three records on October 22nd, "Dream" and "My Last Date With You" were two of them.

Perhaps there was a message in the latter of these songs described by famous orchestra leader, Norrie Paramour as one of Michaels finest. It was just a few days later, on October 29th 1963 that Michael Holliday died aged just 38.

Thanks for the memories Mike, Rest in Peace, Ron Stanway, Clacton on Sea 1954/57."

Click on the image below for a larger view

Harry Griver - 1934 to 1996

Thanks to Harry's former Redcoat colleagues at Filey, Rocky Mason & Gerry Maxim, for providing the following details & tribute;

"Harry had been an A.B.A. Lightweight boxing champion, Army Imperial Services and Golden Gloves Champion before becoming a Redcoat Boxing Instructor at Filey Camp in 1955. He later became the 'Camp Toff' working a comic double act with the 'Camp Tramp', Johnny O'Mahoney. Harry left Butlin's after the 1963 season to become a London Cabbie. Harry, who was a London Eastender was a terrific boxer and an excellent Redcoat.

Rest in peace dear friend, Rocky and Gerry."

Mike Grogan - died 1998

Thanks to Terry Herbert for providing the following details & tribute;

"It was in May in 1956 when I arrived at the Butlin Margate Hotel for the first time to take over as a Redcoat Children's Entertainer. I was greeted by a slim, bespectacled man with crooked smile. "Do you have an adult act?" were the first words he said to me. "Yes," I said. "Good you are on tonight," he said. This was my first contact with a man who was to influence me not only throughout my career with Butlins, which was to last nine years, but for the rest of my life. The gentleman concerned was Mike Grogan, who to me was one of the funniest men in the business. He was not a stand up comedian as such but his ability to adlib and create hilarious situations was unbelievable. At the time I met him he was the resident compere which meant that he presented all the major competitions and he could turn a boring contest such as the Glamorous Grandmother into half an hour's pure entertainment.

He departed from the company in 1959 when he was headhunted by Russ Conway to be his personal manager and at that time he changed his name to Mike Regan.

He stayed with Russ until the mid-sixties who then introduced him to EMI Records and Moss Empires where he worked and looked after all the big stars of the day such as The Beatles, Shirley Bassey, Lulu, Diana Ross, the list was endless.

In 1973 due to failing health he decided to give up the stress of show business and seek a more relaxed way of life.

In the latter part of his life he devoted to charitable works and worked for such organisations as The Salvation Army and it was in 1998 that fate took a dreadful turn and he died through tragic circumstances.

I personally lost touch with him when he left Butlins but I shall always remember the man who was my greatest inspiration throughout my years in the business."

Click on the image below for a larger view

Alan Kehoe

Thanks to Ron Stanway for providing the following details & tribute;

"Joined Butlin's as a Redcoat in 1960 and 1961. He was a popular chap well liked by all his colleagues.

Happy memories from Alex McGowan, Dave Kessel and Ron Stanway."

Ricky McCabe

Thanks to Johnny Ball, a Redcoat with Ricky at Pwllheli 60/61, for providing the following details & tribute;

"Ricky McCabe was a Redcoat at Pwllheli in 1960/61/62 and spent the winter season at the Metropole Hotel, Blackpool 61/62. Ricky always wanted to be a comedian and as a young teenager he would sneak into the Liverpool Music Hall Theatre just across the road from his parents pub to listen to comics. One day, unknown to his parents, he entered and won the Carol Levis Talent Competition at the Liverpool Empire the prize being the opportunity to tour the major theatres in Britain. Afterwards he returned home and became a regular on the huge Liverpool club circuit.

It was in 1960 when he joined the Redcoats at Butlin's, Pwllheli, that he and I met and became firm friends. He was immediately a great hit in the Redcoat Show but Ricky, never the athletic type, quietly shunned the energy sapping jobs of a Redcoat but was always fun loving, caring and helpful especially with the elderly and children. Following a second season at Pwllheli 1961, he and I moved from there to the Butlin's Metropole Hotel for the winter and teamed up with another Redcoat comedian, Freddie Davis who had spent the summer at Skegness. Freddie, who later became known as Freddie 'Parrot Face' Davis and Ricky, helped me a great deal to put together an act of my own.

After Butlin's, Ricky worked at the well known Mike Hughes Agency in Liverpool and there he was involved in the early careers of Jimmy Tarbuck, Freddie Starr, Russ Abbott and Les Dennis. He always said that I should concentrate on Children's TV and as it turned out he was quite right. Later Mike Hughes moved his Agency to London and Ricky became a Liverpool Agent.

Ricky died as a result of a severe heart attack in the late 80's leaving his wife Chris and two sons."

Thanks to Ron Stanway for providing the following details & tribute;

"A Liverpool lad who joined the Redcoat staff at Pwllheli in both the 1960 and 1961 seasons. An aspiring comedian who was a jolly chap both on and off stage. Very popular with the campers and his act was very well received in the Redcoat Show. Years later he became a very successful Theatrical Agent in the Liverpool area.

Thanks for the laughs Ricky - Camper booking into Reception was asked "Have you got a good memory for faces?" "Yes," he replied "That's good said the Receptionist 'cos there's no mirror in your chalet!"

Rest in peace old friend, Alex McGowan, Dave Kessel and Ron Stanway."

Dennis "Topper" Brown - 9th August 1911 to 23rd October 1989

Chief Redcoat and later Entertainments Manager at Mosney. Thanks to Jane Leslie & Ron Stanway for providing the details.

Born on 9th August 1911 in Perry Barr, Birmingham, Topper served in the British Army during the Second World War as a physical training instructor and reached the rank of Sergeant-Major in the Physical Training Corps which was stationed at Aldershot. He spent time during the war in North Africa and Kenya.

After the war, he was looking for a job and was walking down a street in Oxford with his wife, Edna, when he saw an advertisement in a shop window for positions at Butlins Holiday Camps. He applied, was successful, and was sent to Mosney as Chief Redcoat when the camp opened in 1948. He and Edna settled in Laytown, Co. Meath, close to Mosney and their only child, Roy, was born in Ireland.

Topper was promoted to Entertainments Manager at Mosney in the 1950s and continued in that position until his retirement, apart from one season in 1961 when he was sent to Pwllheli. This was because Mosney was like the "Lone Ranger" of Butlin's with very little contact with the sites across the water. Butlin's Head Office had decided that they needed to come into line with the other sites and to be "Butlinized." The long serving Entertainment Manager, Dennis "Topper" Brown was sent to Pwllheli for a season "to be Butlinized" and Al Harris, an equally long serving Butlin chap was sent to Mosney to Butlinize the Entertainment Department there. Ron Stanway was Assistant Entertainment Manager at Pwllheli when Dennis came for the season and remembers that Dennis spent the days walking from event to event seeing/hearing how they did things.

While he retired officially at the age of 65 in 1976, in fact, Topper continued to work on at Mosney for a number of years.

He died on 23rd October 1989 and was buried in Julianstown, Co. Meath not far from Mosney.

Jane Leslie made this tribute, "Topper Brown was an exceptionally popular member of staff at Mosney, and very well liked by all the people in the entertainments department. He ran the department with military precision and was always fair, helpful and very good-humoured."

Ron Stanway made this tribute, "Dennis Brown was a lovely man well liked by everyone and I am sorry to hear of his passing. Rest in peace, Dennis."

Click on the image below for a larger view

Harold Vinter - 1914 to 23rd December 1976

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Harold Vinter was the former Butlin's Publicity Manager, and joined the company in 1935. Harold was a cub reporter with a Skegness newspaper when Bill Butlin arrived to build his first holiday camp in 1936. After joining the company Harold, apart from war service, had been with Butlin's ever since.

Over a hundred mourners, including representatives from newspapers and magazines, were present at his funeral service. Sir William Butlin paid this tribute, "Harold Vinter was one of the original Butlin employees from 1935 and was a close personal friend of mine. His loyalty, hard work and dedication over the years did much to put the company where it is now. He will be greatly missed by me and by the scores of colleagues and many friends he made over the years."

God bless Harold and rest in peace."

Ronnie Hunter - 1927 to 1998

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Joining the Company in the mid 50's, Redcoat pianist Ronnie Hunter, married head revue dancer Vicky, at Filey in 1962 and left Butlin's at the end of the 1963 season. Ronnie took a job in Wallsend playing keyboard in the evenings in the many clubs around the North East.

Ronnie, eventually, became the proud father of three children, Paul, Neil and Wendy. Neither Ronnie nor Vicky could completely tear themselves away from Filey, returning with their family, as day visitors, many times over the years. Ronnie, who's signature tune was "Bill Bailey," was a very popular bar entertainer and Redcoat Sports Organiser, who gave many years excellent and loyal service to Butlin's.

God bless, old friend and rest in peace!"

Pat Bridle - 1934 to c1963

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Pat joined Filey as a General Duty Redcoat in 1955 and, by the strength of her personality and enthusiasm, became Chief Hostess in 1959. Known to her close friends as Patsy, she was a very popular Redcoat, of outstanding beauty and always returned to London for the winter season. She was constantly kept busy with modelling engagements in the fashion and beauty industry and frequently appeared in magazine articles. On leaving Butlin's in 1961 Patsy became a steward with American Airlines, where she met and married a Captain. Shortly after this it was found that Patsy had leukaemia and sadly passed away.

With loving memories R.I.P"

Roy Markwell

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Regretfully, as the years pass it becomes extremely difficult to obtain accurate information on specific dates. Roy, joined Butlin's in the mid 1940s and, in 1949 was selected to run the entertainment on the new Butlin project in the Bahama's. After being there for three years Roy returned and, in 1954 became Entertainment Manager of the Ocean hotel, Brighton. In 1958 he was transferred to the same position to Butlin's Clacton, where he stayed for three years.

In 1961 he became Entertainment Manager at Bognor then, in 1966 he was E.M. at the new camp on Barry Island for three years before moving to the Margate Hotels where he remained until 1972.

Roy was an extremely talented table tennis player and played the game to county standards.

He always collated his holiday entitlement to enable him to take one long vacation, usually to America, where he loved to tour by Greyhound bus.

During his service, at camp level, he also became an Area Entertainment Manager. He was a well respected, efficient and well loved manager.

God bless and rest peacefully Roy."

Clinton Ford - 4th November 1931 to 21st October 2009

Clinton was born in Liverpool in 1931 & his real name was Ian Harrison. Thanks to Ron Stanway for providing the following details & tribute;

"After his National Service which would have been around 1951/2, Clinton joined Butlin's as a Redcoat Entertainer at Pwllheli in 1957/8/9. With so many 'Liverpudlians' holidaying at Pwllheli, he was an instant success gathering a large following who enjoyed his brand of old and largely unknown songs.

In 1958 I was moved from Clacton to Pwllheli as a Redcoat and met Clinton for the first time. He was already a well established entertainer host of the Coronation Bar playing each night to a packed house. He sang songs such as 'Fanlight Fanny the Frousy Nightclub Queen', The 'Water Melon Song', 'Old Shep' and many others whose titles are lost in the sands of time. One of the lines in the 'Water Melon' song was "He's got the biggest and the best in Africa" very risqué in those days. 'Old Shep' was a real tear jerker and when he sang this in the weekly Redcoat Show it reduced a 2,000 seater theatre to tears. Never have I seen so many people weeping in one place. Oh yes, mustn't forget the old Charlie Chester favourite, “In the Old Bazaar in Cairo” with a line that went; "Rice pud very good, what's it all about. Made it in a kettle and they couldn't get it out. Everybody took a turn to suck it through the spout, in The Old Bazaar in Cairo".

As a bar entertainer he tucked himself into the corner of the room at the end of the bar counter, a black Stetson hat on his head and he would stand there all night strumming his guitar and singing his songs. Periodically he would ask "if anyone has a special request just write it on the label of a full bottle of Whitbreads", needless to say there was always a line of bottles on the end of the counter.

For many years Clinton enjoyed success as an entertainer working most of the theatres in Britain. He was always a popular addition to the taverns of Liverpool during the golden years of the Beatles etc.

Old Butlin Redcoats, Tony Marriott, Ken Hopson, Bill Stewart, Alex McGowan, Dave Kessell, Wally & Jackie Piggott, Derek & Dee Laurence, Henri Rouah and Rocky Mason, join me in sending our sincere condolences to Clint's wife Maggie and the children, Georgina, Susannah, Becky & Ian.

May your guitar stay in tune Clint and our grateful thanks for the songs we enjoyed so much.

Rest in Peace"

Charlie Drake - 1925 to 2006

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"With his catchphrase, "Hello My Darlings" this former Butlin Redcoat, quickly established himself as one of the most popular comedians of the 1960's, 70's and 80's. The catchphrase came about because Charlie was only 5ft 1 inch tall and so his eyes would usually be directly in line with a lady's bosom. He was born Charles Edward Springall in South London's, Elephant and Castle, and took his mother's maiden name for his comedy work on stage. He had the courage and persistence to learn his trade touring the working men's clubs. He turned professional in 1953, and made his TV debut in The Centre Show. He then joined his partner Jack Edwardes, forming the comedy double act "Mick and Montmorency" They did two seasons as Butlin Redcoats, at Filey in 1954/5, where Charlie was also a Judo Instructor. After going solo Charlie had considerable success in films and with his own shows on television. Charlie starred in four major films; Sands of the Desert: Petticoat Pirates: The Cracksman: and Mr Ten Percent. His television shows however, were much more successful with The Charlie Drake Show winning an award at the 1968 Montreux Festival. Other shows included Slapstick and Old Lace: and Who Is Sylvia. His most memorable which ran from 1965 to 1970 was The Worker. He also had a hit record with My Boomerang Won't Come Back. He is reputed to have left just £5000, in his will, of the £5 million he allegedly blew on women, race horses and fast cars - the rest of it Charlie said was just wasted! Charlie died aged 81 of a stroke, in Brinsworth House. His Butlin Redcoat slapstick act as "Mick and Montmorency" was a big hit with the campers at Filey camp.

Sleep well Charlie and rest in peace.

Rocky Mason"

Eric Winstone - 1915 to 1974

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"The famous band leader, of the Eric Winstone Orchestra, was resident on the Butlin camps for more than 20 years, where he played live broadcasts to countries throughout the world.

Eric the popular band leader and composer from the 30s through to the 70s once worked as a clerk for the Gas Light and Coke Company, in Westminster and played piano in his spare time, before leaving to become a full time musician.

He learned to play the accordion and became highly regarded, gave lessons on the instrument and eventually founded an accordion school. Eric became an accomplished arranger for the instrument and formed his renowned Accordion Quintet.

During World War II he led the Eric Winstone orchestra and toured throughout Europe entertaining the troops. Invariabley, Eric fronted a 22 piece orchestra and amongst the musicians associated with his various line-ups were some of the greats: Ralph Dollimore: Alan Moorhouse: Roy Marsh: Frank Deniz: Freddy Gardner: George Bradley: Jimmy Skidmore and many others along with vocalists Alan Kane and Michael Holliday.

For many years Eric was musical director for Southern Television. He also wrote music for films, his best remembered composition was "Stage Coach"

Sleep well Eric and rest in peace."

Al Freid - c1910 to 1974

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Al Freid was the first, official Musical Director to be bought into Butlins as, up until his arrival, the dance orchestra had played for the shows. As the quality of the variety shows improved and with the introduction of resident revue's it became apparent that a theatre orchestra was required. Al Freid had considerable experience playing for shows on the famous Moss Empire circuit, and had also conducted at the London Palladium. Al became the pioneer of the Butlin theatre pit orchestra's and, in this role, was most certainly the most accomplished musician ever to play at Butlins.

Apart from being a superb musician, on his instrument the violin, he was also an excellent sight reader with the rare ability to be able to transpose music on sight. Al was also an accomplished composer.

He was well known, to the point of being famous, to artistes throughout the country and was highly respected by every musician who knew him.

It could not be argued that Al Freid was the most consummate theatre orchestra leader to ever be associated with Butlins and the company had a reputation for having pit musicians second to none. A very talented, loyal and experienced colleague who is constantly sadly missed.

Rest in peace Al."

Dusty Springfield - 1939 to 1999

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Former guest artist on Butlin Redcoat shows, Dusty was born, Mary, Isabel, Catherine, Bernadette O’Brien, and was awarded the OBE.

Dusty was a regular guest artist at Butlins, certainly at Filey, where, in the late fifties, she performed with her Pop-Folk trio on the Redcoat shows. The trio was called "The Springfields" and consisted of Dusty, and her brother’s Tom and Tim.

During the Spring of 1963, the Springfields recorded their last British Top Five hit, "Say I Won't Be There" before disbanding.

Dusty's first single "I Only Want To Be With You" was released that year and this song was the first record to be played on BBC-TV's 'Top Of The Pop's' programme. Another of Dusty's songs to be No 1 in the British charts and No 4 in America was "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me" She had another fantastic winner with "Son of a Preacher Man"

Sadly, in 1999, Dusty died, at the age of 59, of breast cancer on the day she was due to go to Buckingham Palace to receive her Order Of The British Empire. The Queen had given permission for the medal to be collected by her manager and presented to Dusty in hospital, where she was surrounded by close friend's and family.

Just ten days later she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, by Elton John, who stated... "I think she is the greatest white singer there has ever been!"

God bless you Dusty, Rest in Peace."

Wilfred Orange - c1901 to early 90's?

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Wilfred Orange joined the Butlin entertainment staff shortly after the Second World war, and became Entertainment Manager of Filey, in 1947. He moved to Ayr in 1948 and remained for five seasons until the end of '52. A year was spent at Head Office, until he returned to Filey in 1954, and remained as Entertainment Manager until 1957.

Wilf, as he liked to be known to his friends, had considerable experience and a varied background in the world of ballroom dancing. He was, with his lovely wife Barbara, an accomplished former competition dancer, and had run a number of well established dance schools. He had also been chairman of the Official Board of Ballroom Dancing.

In 1948, he and Barbara, organized the National Veleta competition to be presented at the Butlin Reunion, which was held annually at the Royal Albert Hall. Over 5,000 couples took part and it became an annual event.

Wilf and Barbara also organized the first Dance Festival, which took place at Butlins Pwllheli. It was such a success that a Festival was presented each year on every Butlin camp.

A little known fact about him is that Wilf was a trained and highly competent harpist, who gave a number of public performances.

He was, of course, an excellent and experienced Entertainment Manager.

Sleep well Guv'nor and rest in peace."

Colin Crompton - 1931 to 1985

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Former Redcoat Colin Crompton, was born in Middleton, Manchester, and joined Butlins as a Redcoat at Ayr camp in 1956. He first came to the notice of a wider public when he appeared with television's 1974 series of "The Comedians", which launched his career. The show had two successful years on television and also ran as a stage show at the London Palladium and the North Pier, Blackpool.

Later he appeared as The Chairman, in "The Wheeltappers & Shunters Social Club" television series with Bernard Manning. He became established as one of Britain's great comedy talents.

Colin appeared for a number of summer seasons in Butlins Revue shows and as a guest artiste on the Sunday Variety Shows. In later life Colin bought and ran a pub "The Birch and Bottle" in Cheshire.

Colin died of lung cancer in August 1985, aged 54, after fighting a six month long losing battle, leaving three children Cheryl, Erica and John.

Sleep peacefully Colin."

Jack Reed

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Jack Reed was a member of ENSA during the Second World War. ENSA, or to give it its full title, Entertainment National Services Association, was an organization set up at the start of World War Two, to provide entertainment for British Armed Forces Personnel. Many well known stars performed in ENSA, including George Formby, Gracie Fields and Wilfred Bramble; later of Steptoe fame. ENSA was distinct from "Stars In Battledress" and "Pioneers on Parade", in that the performers were not members of the armed services.

Jack was a ventriloquist, but didn't use a conventional dummy, or doll, he used instead a collection of large Toby Jugs.

Jack joined Butlins, as a compere/ producer in the early fifties and, over the years, entertained on most of the Butlin camp's and, during the winter seasons, in the hotels.

Jack, became a close friend of Marten Tiffen, who was Entertainment Manager of Filey, when Jack worked there in 1959. He moved to Ayr, for the summer of 1962 and, at some time in the seventies, spent a number of seasons at Minehead.

Jack Reed, who's catchphrase was "Wot Went Wong?" was the consummate professional, a popular personality and admired by staff and camper's alike.

Sleep soundly Jack, and rest in peace."

Kay Bury - dates unknown

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Kay went to Butlins Skegness, during the opening year of 1936, and it was there that Kay was first smitten by the Butlin Bug. She had, however, to wait throughout the way years to achieve her ambition to be a Redcoat.

Kay joined the team at Filey, on the cessation of hostilities, in 1945, and recalled, in a conversation we had, that the camp was half full of holiday makers and still half full of troops. Kay started as the entertainment manager's secretary and hostess. Most of Kay's 20 years service with the company was as Redcoat Chief Hostess, working all the camps in the summers. During the winter she was Chief Hostess in the hotels, as well as having her own desk at head office in Oxford Street.

Kay was hostess at the many Butlin functions, which included looking after the VIP's and show business stars at the annual Butlin reunion at the Royal Albert Hall. She also had her own singalong bar at Clacton camp called 'Kay's Bar', and was a member of the original Butlin's square dancing team. Kay is featured in many of the books written about Sir Billy Butlin and the Holiday Camp Empire.

Fond memories Kay, rest in peace."

Dave Meredith

Thanks to Michael who told us, "It was sad news to hear that Mr Dave Meredith has passed away. I worked with him for five years in Main Catering department, Minehead. (1971 – 1976)."

Micheal supplied this photo which shows Dave, his wife Chris and most of middle management of Main Catering dept. Kitchen Manager, Dining room Managers and supervisors and was taken in the Beachcomber Bar in 1974. Click for a larger view.

Uncle Boko - c1902 to 1966

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Uncle Boko, the famous Skegness Children's Entertainer, who's pseudonym was so eminent that no-one knew his real name, was an institution at Butlins Skegness.

Boko took great pride in the fact that in his later years he was entertaining children of parents he had entertained as children!

Uncle Boko's trademark was his fez and he was never seen without it. His whole attitude to children was beyond reproach and his shows were superb. Boko would never be seen with a glass of beer, or anything else, in any of the Butlin bars.

Entertaining children at Butlins was his whole life and he was extremely proud of his 21 years unbroken service. Uncle Boko you are a legend.

God bless you and rest in peace."

Laurie Boynton - c1932 to c2003

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Laurie was born in Bradford, Yorkshire, growing up there during the Second World War, when, to escape the German bombing raids, he was evacuated out into the country. At a very young age Laurie became a keen rugby player and a great fan of the game. He served an apprenticeship in painting and decorating and his National service was spent in the parachute regiment.

Laurie was a popular personality who had a somewhat varied career with Butlins. Starting as a Redcoat in 1962 managing the Rock 'n Roll ballroom at Filey and later moving to Minehead on accommodation, where he became Deputy. Then, after a move to Filey, became Accommodation Manager. He also spent some time at Ayr, on camp management. Also after returning to entertainments for a short period he was Entertainment Manager of Barry camp.

Towards the end of his career Laurie made something of a name for himself as a stuntman, working for television and in numerous films.

Sleep well Laurie and rest in peace."

Chris Kenny - 1929 to 2002

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"A versatile and talented, entertainer and comedian, Chris had a somewhat varied career with Butlins. Starting at the Metropole hotel, Blackpool, in 1958 where he met his wife Julie. Chris returned in 1964 as entertainment manager. The early sixties saw him performing as a compere/entertainer between Cliftonville hotels at Margate and the Ocean hotel, Saltdean, Brighton. Chris, originally from Liverpool, was a devoted Everton fan and followed their games with passion. He returned to Margate in 1967 in the role of entertainment manager, later moving to Skegness camp as compere/host and successfully running the Queen's club bar. Shortly after his Skegness venture he entertained on a number of Mediterranean cruises. Chris is sadly missed.

Rest in peace Chris."

Terry Dale - c1933 to c1986

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Terry, originally from Thackley, Yorkshire, was a talented and popular Redcoat compere/comedian, who joined Butlins in the sixties, after learning his trade in the tough Northern clubs. A well established personality, who after working numerous camps in the summer, spent a number of winters at the various Butlin hotels. Entertaining, with great success, at Cliftonville and Brighton before settling for some time as entertainment manager at the Metropole, Blackpool. Terry's style of comedy was renowned throughout the company and it was said that Terry often went where others feared to tread! A much respected and well loved Butlin 'character'.

Sleep well Terry and rest in peace."

Beryl Dale - born c1940

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Beryl, the first wife of Terry Dale, was a talented and popular Radio Butlin supervisor for a number of years and worked on numerous camps. Beryl settled at Pwllheli in 1970 and spent more time there than at any other camp. Always wanting to do Redcoat duties beyond her main job in RB, she was a popular, well liked personality.

Beryl died in a tragic car accident at a young age.

Sadly missed Beryl. Rest in peace."

Gordon Ricketts aka London - dates unknown

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"Gordon was a remarkable General Duty Redcoat and a much loved character who joined Butlins at Skegness in 1966. The term GD Redcoat is now a thing of the past, the position, like the job, has naturally changed considerably over the years. I think the modern day host would be termed Redcoat Entertainer. Perhaps because of necessary changes to the holiday camp business, the 'non stage' entertainment has been reduced considerably over the years. In Gordon's day it wasn't seen as necessary for a Redcoat to have an act, indeed, I am quite certain that when Sir Billy came up with the idea of a team of Redcoats, having an act was the last thing on his mind, he could employ entertainers for that side of the business. A strong and friendly personality with the ability to mix and mingle was a far more important criteria - and that was Gordon's forte! For every games contest, or event in the programme, he could work the bye's out in his head and knew the rules inside out. It was a delight to walk behind him on the camp roads and note how he spoke to every single person, man, woman or child that he passed. Gordon could light up a whole room...simply by walking in!! The personification of everything Sir Billy dreamed about in a Butlin redcoat.

Sleep well old friend and RIP."

George Humphries - 1939 to 1994

Thanks to Rocky Mason for providing the following details & tribute;

"George was a very popular and loyal servant of the company for quite a number of years. Starting as a Redcoat in the early sixties he became Chief Redcoat of Bognor in 1965 before progressing to the position of assistant and later deputy manager. George was a keen and talented table tennis player. George also worked at Clacton and Pwllheli before taking up the position of deputy manager at Filey, his loyalty and enthusiasm could only be described as 'second to none'. He remained in this position until 1983 when he became the entertainment manager. After leaving the company with the closure of Filey, he continued working on camps and was engaged at the Blue Dolphin, Scarborough, up to his sad demise. Dear George died at just 55 years.

Sadly missed George. Rest in peace."

Johnny Lancaster - 1942 to 2010

Thanks to Ron Stanway for providing the following details & tribute on behalf of all the many friends 'Johnny' made at the various Butlin Centres with helpful information from John Lancaster Jnr;

"Born in Oswestry, Shropshire, Christopher John Lancaster, known to all thereafter as, Johnny, joined Butlin's in 1960 at Pwllheli. He had obviously taken advice from his father Teddy, who had worked in the Entertainment Dept at Pwllheli in 1959 as a 'Green Coat'. 'Green Coats' were introduced that year and were worn by those members of the Entertainment staff who were solo musicians eg, Accordionists, Organists or Pianists who played for Sing Songs or Talent Auditions etc.

Johnny, was a multi instrumentalist and in addition to his solo work he was often a valuable addition to the shows in the theatre as an act. Piano, saxophone, bagpipes, clarinet, guitar, trumpet and post horn, his talents were endless.

As a young teenager Johnny set up his first musical group "Loony Lancaster and the Layabouts". The band played gigs around the local scene, skiffle being the popular rhythm in those days.

His Butlin seasons were numerous, 15 in all but long before this, the 'Green' blazer had long gone and he was now a professional artiste on the Butlin circuit. Quite remarkably, in the mid '60's he made a giant decision when he chose to change his act and add Comedy. His new act was just as popular and he was now also appearing as a support act on the Butlin Late Night Cabaret circuit, by now very much a comedian. Successes followed with seasons at Pontins, and many other holiday camps, a TV appearance on 'Opportunity Knocks' only to come second to child star, Lina Zaveroni.

In the mid '70's he gave up the world of entertainment and purchased 'Happy' Hambrook Holiday Camp near Chichester on the South Coast. He then went on to own a host of licensed premises across the South Coast including the Felpham Club, where a large number of his clientele were from the Butlin's Head Office just along the road and, The 'Duke of Lancaster' in Brighton.

This lasted 26 years and Johnny then made probably the biggest change in his life. This was in 1996 when one night he played his Hammond organ for the last time in the Felpham Club, gave up all the stage and licensed work to become a Taxi Driver in and around the Bognor Regis area. Johnny felt that he had spent so much time during his career driving from gig to gig, that taxi driving made sense and he purchased 'Yellow Star Taxi's'. In 2005 Johnny became partially retired and spent most of his days coping with DIY jobs around the house and caring for his wife Linda whose illness required full time care.

Johnny never forgot his Butlin days and one day put all his memories into print with a book entitled "If it hadn't been Hi-Di-Hi, It Wouldn't Have Been Funny". This book was published in 1994. Likewise, Johnny who was an avid golfer (he had a handicap of 5) had another book published in 1994 and called "I Was Standing Too near To The Ball – After I'd Hit It!" As a keen golfer he had a most unusual claim to fame – He was the only golfer to have played 23 rounds of golf in one day. Aided by motor cyclists from the Royal Military Police he accomplished this record in 19hours. An earlier book was called 'No, We're Not a Funny Bunch of People' and was written about his other great love; The Masons with whom he enjoyed a 40 year career.

The following old friends from those early days at Pwllheli in 1960 send their condolences to Johnny’s family: Dave Kessell (San Diego, USA), Alex McGowan (Baltimore USA), Wally & Jackie Piggott (Australia), Dee & Derek Laurence, Ron & Sheila Stanway, Ken & Joan Hopson and David & Tina Simpson.

Further friends from the years following at other camps: Alan & Marjorie Ridgway, Leslie Melville, Johnny Mans, Paul Rumke and Tony Peers.

Johnny, you are wiser now than any of us, Rest in Peace."

Donald Derek Laurence - 21st April 1937 to 9th July 2010

Thanks to Ron Stanway for providing the following details & tribute;

"Born in Edinburgh, Del, as he was known, was a gifted sportsman and played soccer for Hibernian in the Scottish League. He also had a very good singing voice and could play the piano. It was during a holiday at Butlin's, Ayr in 1957 that these won him the weekly heat of the talent show. As a result of this he was invited by the Entertainment Manager to return the next season as a Redcoat. After just a few weeks he was transferred to Pwllheli where he became one of a very happy group and one where the friends he teamed-up with lasted for over 50 years. He returned to Pwllheli in 1959 and 1960 after which he felt the time had come to settle down and take a 'proper job'.

In 1962 he married former Revue Dancer and Redcoat, Dee Piggott and together they rented a house in West Bournemouth. They developed a Mind Reading Act alongside Del's singing talent which led to bookings at hotels in the area entertaining holidaymakers. Some years later, with a family on the way, they decided to find other work and although a Master Carpenter by trade, he changed direction completely finding a niche at the Ford Motor Factory at Dagenham working as a Buyer in the Components Department.

Dee & Del became parents of two strapping sons, Craig and Grant and Del's love of sport was inherited by older son, Craig, who is now a Professional Golf Pro. Grant, after a number of jobs, moved to San Diego, USA where he became a buyer of auto parts in a similar capacity to his father.

Family and friends attended the funeral at Chelmsford Crematorium on Friday 23rd July 2010, Even after 52 years, friends from his Butlin days, Tony & Maureen Marriott, Ken Hopson and Ron Stanway were there to say farewell. Both Alex McGowan and Dave Kessel, now living in the USA, sent their condolences. It is interesting to note that none of these ex Butlin colleagues knew that his first name was Donald as he was always known as Derek until years later Dee gave him the name of 'Del'. In his Eulogy, Craig revealed the reason why his father preferred to be known as Derek rather than Donald as being a Scotsman he felt he would be constantly asked 'Donald where’s your trousers?'

Derek fought a long hard battle against cancer but is now at peace and a lot wiser than us all. Farewell dear friend until we all meet up again."

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Janet Pierce - died 1988

Thanks to Christopher Whitelaw for providing the following details & tribute;

"Jan was a redcoat at Butlin's Bognor from 1973 and was House Chair when I met her. Her speciality was whist drives and she could usually be found in the Princes Ballroom, sometimes supervising but usually playing a hand at whist. She was always fun to be with and I remember celebrating a Christmas lunch with her and her soon-to-be husband Phil Solomon in the middle of June!

Jan died of liver failure in 1988. There were many ex Bognor "Reds" at her funeral.

Until we meet again, sleep well hun. We still miss you."