A popular and regular attraction in local parks. Tickets cost six pence (6d) and three pence (3d).

Watercolour by Eric Dawson, dated 6 Jan.2005

Period depicted: 1930s

From the collection of Newham Heritage Services

Saturday ‘hops' were frequently in church halls. The girls all wore long dresses. Part of the fun was escorting them home after the dances - in all weathers!

Watercolour by Eric Dawson, undated

Period depicted: 1930s

From the collection of Newham Heritage Services

Have you been to a concert at Hartley School in the 60`s or 70`s ?  Have you ever played a instument, sang or danced ? Were you in the audience ?

Anna Neagle was born Florence Marjorie Robertson on 20th October 1904 in Glenparke Road, Forest Gate. Her family later moved to Upton Lane, Forest Gate. She attended Park Primary School. Anna became one of the biggest and brightest celebrities of her time.  

Actor, Billy Murray was born in Forest Gate in 1941 and grew up Upton Park, where his mum still lives. He went to St Edwards Primary and St. Bonaventures Secondary school.

Poster for entertainment in Plashet Park in June 1945

West Ham County Borough Council have made the following arrangements for the entertainment of workers during the period 29 May 1944 - 26 August 1944.

Bands and concert parties weekly at: West Ham Park, Beckton Road Recreation Ground, West Ham Lane Recreation Ground, Hermit Road Recreation Ground.

Sunday Band performances by: Royal Artillery (Woolwich), Royal Horse Guards, HM Coldstream Guards, HM Welsh Guards, HM Scots Guards, National Fire Service, Leyton Borough Silver Band.

Dancing to gramophone music nightly from 7pm - 9pm commencing in Lyle Park except when a band or concert party is performing.

From the collections of Newham Heritage Services

FOREST GATE FACES EXHIBITION - 1970s

The two girls, deep in conversation were unaware that they were being captured on film.

Photo: Tony Morrison