1896 - William Colborne Butlin and Bertha Cassandra Hill
We start this timeline in the year 1896 when two young people would meet. William Colborne Butlin, born in June 1867, and Bertha Cassandra Hill, born in March 1878, would meet to form a friendship. Mr William Butlin was a clergyman as Miss Bertha Hill family is a part of travelling showman, which is a key moment in the history of Butlins. Miss Hill's parents are a part of a travelling showman, showing the strong connection to Billy Butlin's history. As the friendship grew, both Mr Butlin and Miss Hills get married in December 1896. Bertha becomes Bertha Cassandra Butlin and the future of the name Butlins is born in this very key moment in history.
1897 - The Butlin family move to South Africa - Cape Town
The marriage between William and Bertha was not very well accepted in the town of Leonard Stanley, based in Gloucestershire. Not wanting to cause many issues, they both decide it was time to move on and emigrate to South Africa, to Cape Town.
1899 - Celebration as the Butlin Family increases 29th September
Living in Cape town for a couple of years. there is much joy as William and Bertha celebrate the birth of their first son. The official name given at this very important moment in history is "William Heygate Edmund Colborne Butlin". This is a day of extreme importance to the history of Butlins as this is the moment that a legend is born...they do not know it at this time.
The Butlin Bicycle Shop
I am unaware of the year or dates, however, it should be noted that the first Butlin's shop to feature in the world was in Africa Cape Town. William Colborne Butlin and Bertha Cassandra Hill had started their own bicycle shop to help support their family. This was also important as it was a time for Billy to see how the shop works and develops. Billy is at a very young age at this time but it would not surprise me at a later stage that it helped start ideas follow.
1904 - Celebration as the Butlins Family increases
As William was growing up, he was overjoyed with the news that his mother, Bertha and his father, also William, would let him know that he was to have a brother or sister. In 1904, another important moment in the history of Butlins is the birth of Harry John Butlin is born. With two sons, William is known as Billy, and his brother Harry is known as Binkie.
1905 - 1910 - Mr. and Mrs Butlins separate Bertha, William and Harry move back to England
The relationship between William Colborne and Bertha Cassandra was not going very well. The marriage had come to an end as Bertha decides it would be best to move back to England. With both Billy and Harry, they arrive in England, meeting with their grandmother, Annie Eliza Hill. Billy and Harry's grandmother was a part of a travelling funfair and showmen. They are greeted with much love as Bertha and her sons start selling gingerbread men, showing Billy the expectations of customers and demands for products. This moment is also extremely important as the showman business is exposed to Billy, strong family connections and how to sell items are all areas taught to him.
1907 - A very sad day in the Butlins timeline
Devastating news arrives as the Butlin family never wanted to hear, Harry John Butlin has passed away. This sad moment in the history of Butlins recorded Harry's passing from contracting Polio. May you rest in peace Harry Butlin.
1910 - 1912 - Bertha Butlin makes a hard decision to help create a better future
Bertha wanted to give more to her family and decided it was time to look for opportunities. With so very little available, Bertha emigrated to Canada in hope that she will be able to start a new life for her and Billy. It was a tough choice as Billy remained in England with his cousin Jimmy Hill and his two aunties.
1913 - Bertha and Charles Robotham invite William Butlin to Canada
Bertha returns back to England and is very happy to see Billy. When in England, Bertha marries Charles Robotham in Swindon. They both asked Billy to come with them to Canada, Toronto. Billy agreed and another life was awaiting him and his family.
Working at Eaton's and Summer Camps
Billy was really unhappy in Canada and left school at fourteen years old. As he is a person of great strength, he continued to find ways to develop. It was at this point that he worked for the large retail company called Eaton's. He learnt more about advertising and customer service from his time at Eaton's. He had also experienced their summer camps, giving him an insight into what breaks were all about. (image credit to Wikipedia)
Billy Butlin started working as a messenger boy and then later on as suitcase maker.
1915 - William Butlin joins the Canadian army
Billy volunteered to join the army, the Canadian Expeditionary Force. He was fighting on the western front after realizing he did not tell the recruiter that he originally joined to become a dispatch rider. His official post within the war was in the 170th (Mississauga Horse) Battalion on 29 December 1915 (credit to Wiki). He was also at the rank of Private.
Billy was then transferred to the 216th (Bantams) Battalion, which brought him back to England in Sandgate near Folkestone. His division was then sent to France becoming a part of the 3rd Canadian Division. Billy was known for being the stretcher bearer. He was now at the rank of Lance Corporal
Billy Butlin had in the fact told them the wrong year of his birth to help join the army. His papers show it as 1898, as a suitcase maker, allowing him to be at the age needed. (Image credit to Wikipedia)
Live of the First World War
You can see further infomration about Billy Butlin from the Lives of the first world war website. Just click on the photo shown here to view the website directly
Small note: the log and design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
The war is over and William Butlin had plans and the time to start them was now as he travelled back to the UK.
The war has finished and Billy Butlin is on a cattle ship on his way back to England. He has £5 with him and a destination in his mind. Billy Butlin was making his way to Bridgewater in Somerset to his uncle Marshall Hill. History recorded this as the time when Butlins had first started, on a stall that he got from his uncle. The hoopla stall has a strong and loving connection to the Butlin's story. Billy made this successful as he allowed his customer to win more often. This worked in the long term as more prizes would leave him however, there was an increase in how many customers played his game, giving him long term profit and more customers. The cost of the prizes and the number of customers allowed him to have a profit.
Sir Billy Butlin also received the The British War Medal and Victory Medal for his involvement with the First World War.
The Butlin's Legacy has started with expansions
Becoming a success, Billy had moved to London to open a stall at the Olympia. His profits were good and he now had enough to pay for his mothers return back to England. At this stage of Billy Butlin life, his mother. Bertha was returning back to England as a widow as her husband had passed away. Billy has a very strong connection with his mother and is very pleased to see her back with him. With his mother's help to run the Olympia stall, Billy would start to open more stalls in Barry Island and within the Hills travelling funfair.
Billy had then started his own travelling fair and would visit many locations, including Barnstaple. This is a key moment in the story as we see the second stage of the development of Butlins.
1920 - Dolly Mabel Cheriton (Dorris)
In the 1920's, Billy Butlin is in Tiverton, Devon and whilst there, he meets a lady named Dolly Mabel Cheriton. They get to know each another very well as Billy meets Dolly's parents, who were owners of a fish and chip shop. As the friendship grew, so did their feelings for each another as a relationship developed.
1925 - Barnstaple Fair
In 1923 the new novelty sensation was the Chair-o-planes and by 1925 three sets graced the tober. In that year Billy Butlin, founder of Butlin's Holiday Camps attended the fair with his Spinner, as did Sam and Esther McKeowen with their Boxing booth.
National Fairground and Circus Archive
The university of Sheffield has some great information bout the Barnstaple fair, including news about Billy Butlin. Just click on the screenshot shown to load that website
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
1925 - Visit to Skegness with the hoopla Stall
Billy Butlin visits Skegness with his tradmark Hoopla stall, which was already set up in Bristol and London. Billy had set up a stall called the Jungle. This location use to be close to a hotel named County Hotel.
County Hotel
From the research found above and using Google Maps (credit to Google), you can see the location of where Sir Billy Butlin had once started his stall, which lead to a much bigger adventure. The hotel was built here after the stalls was gone, making this location very important to the Butlins time line.
Image credit to Google Maps, click on the photo to view more.
County Hotel
As I dug deeper into this location, I found that this was indeed the location where Billy Butlin had started in Skegness. Further more, this location is also linked to a beer being included into the first camp. Further information can be found below.
Click on the photo to view more.
1927 - It's a joyful time as Dolly Mabel Cheriton and Billy Butlin get married
In 1927, there was was a date in the diary of Butlins for celebration. Billy Butlin would ask for permission to marry Dolly. In this year, Dolly Mabel Cheriton and Billy Butlin get married. History noted down this date as the time Dolly Mabel Cheriton would now be known as Dolly Mabel Butlin, also known as Doris.
1927 - Butlin's Amusement Park - Skegness
Billy rents some land from the Earl of Scarborough to start is an amusement park. He had made sure that his trademark of the Hoopla stall was there with additional areas such as a tower slide and a haunted house. Billy was also a fan of trains and had a miniature railway in the park, an icon that appeared on the camps at a later stage. Further information has shown that the amusement park also included model cars, a theatre and mini zoon.
Additional information from Lincs to the past
Click on the logo of the respected website to see more about the information shown above.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
1928 - The introduction of the Dodgems
Billy had got the exclusive license to the dodgems cars, which is another icon to the name Butlins. Anything related to the dodgems would be from Billy Butlin. The United Kingdom would see the first-ever dodgems in Butlins in Skegness, however, this was not a camp but an amusement park. Still, Butlins, just not a camp just yet.
1928 - 1935 - Butlins Expands
Billy opens new amusement parks in Mablethorpe in 1928, Hayling Island in 1931, Felixstowe in 1931, Southsea in 1931 and on the Isle of Man. Each park would also have a zoo added as an extension by 1935.
Extra Information that might be handy with your research
Here are some links to some sites that hold extra information about these amusement parks that you might find interesting.
Mablethorpe Park: Joyland Brooks
Felixstowe: Manning Amusements
Felixstowe Memories: Summer Days at Felixstowe
SouthSea: BBC History
1931 - The birth of Shirley Butlin
Mr and Mrs Butlin are overjoyed as the news comes of the next generation of Butlins arrives. Shirley Butlin is born this year as Billy Butlin is smiling to see his daughter in his arms. It's a wonderful day in the timeline of Butlins.
1932 - Butlin's Recreation Shelter, Bognor Regis
Billy Butlin had arrived to Bognor Regis and opened his Recreation Shelter, on Lennox Street. Having his trademark dodgems within, he would offer the amusements of Butlin's within.
The Bognor Regis Heritage Trails
Click on the logo (screenshot) shown to see the wonderful website, The Bognor Regis Heritage Trails to see further information about Sir W.E 'Billy' Butlin
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
1933 - Butlin's Zoo - Bognor Regis.
Featured at the seafront was the Butlin's zoo. It did not have an elephant and had more exotic animals.
In memory of the Butlin's Elephants.
1930's - Dolly and William Butlin separate.
Billy Butlin is happy to see a new generation of his family, however, the relationship between him and Dolly is not going very well. It was at this moment that Billy and Dolly split up and a request for a divorce was requested. Awaiting news that the marriage was now over was going to be a long time for Billy as Dolly refused to divorce him.
1930's - Norah Faith Cheriton start a relationship
In the early 1930s, Norah had been spending a lot of time with Billy and started to fall in love with each other. The relationship grew strong as Billy planned to marry his future wife. However, both Norah and Billy were unable to do this due to the marriage to Dolly. Dolly still refused any divorce from Billy and continued to be his wife, preventing Norah and Billy from marrying.
1932 - Butlin's Park is born in Littlehampton
A landmark called the Tower Windmill was planned to be demolished in Littlehampton, which stood in the Harbour Park. Going into this location was the Butlins Amusement Park with many features for many to enjoy.
Jules Blog
This blog is amazing and very rich with historic data regarding the park in Littlehampton that you might find interesting to read. Click on the logo to view more.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
The RCDB website shows some more information about the former Butlin's park in Littlehampton
Click on the screenshot to see further information.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
1934 - Bertha Butlin passes away
It was the day that Billy Butlin never wanted to arrive as his mother Bertha passes away. The connection between Bertha and Billy is extremely strong. Billy loved his mother a great deal as she supported him a great deal. She is very proud of her son and would have loved to have seen the holiday camps.
1934 - The birth of Robert Butlin
The Butlin family expands with Robert F Reeves birth. Son to Nora, William (Billy) would help raise him as he was later known as Robert Butlin.
1935 - The creation of Butlin's Ltd
As plans are in place to start his camps, Billy Butlin becomes the chairman and director of Butlin's Ltd.
Norman Bradford
It is 1929, in a nightclub in London and Norman meets a young man named Billy Butlin. Getting to know each other well, Norman is invited by Billy to help with the building of his Skegness camp. Calling his friend The Guv'nor, Norman would work hard to get the camp ready for the campers. In 1936, Norman would work his way to the station and greet the campers to Butlins dressed in a dinner jacket.
Norman work two roles in Butlins as he was an engineer in the daytime and an entertainer at night. Norman was happy to be involved and felt that there was something missing. After discussions with Billy, he went out to the town and purchased a bright red blazer and some white flannels. As the night time arrived, Norman had placed the red blazer on and went onto the stage to entertain the campers with the creation of a famous term. He shouted "Hi-De-Hi" and the response was overwhelming. This was the birth of the Redcoats in Butlins, an icon that continues today.
The Skegness Magazine
There is some wonderful information from the Skegness magazine published in 2010 showing Norman Bradford, an important person in the history of Butlins and it's time line. Click on the screenshot shown to view the amazing website that tells you a great deal of information about the first and original Redcoat.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
The Batemans Company connection to Billy Butlin and Butlins in 1936
The website of Batemans shows a history linked with Butlins, here is a quote from the site "Business still wasn’t easy. But Billy Butlin decided to build his first Butlin’s holiday camp in Skegness – which included some bars. "
The important story of Harry Bateman and the connection with Butlin's.
Click on the screenshot shown to read how Harry Bateman had a chat with Sir Billy Butlin about the beer they were drinking and how they were introduced to the camps.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
30th January 1937 - Very important moment in Butlin's History
Billy Butlin was on top with the amusement parks and camps in full force, he continues to grow in strength. He decides that it's a great time to change his company into a limited one. The new name would become Butlins Ltd to help finance the camps. On the 30th of January 1937, the company changed into the new name of Butlins Ltd. It was on On 8 February 1937 that Butlins had shown what it had planned and what is currently within the company. When the shares became available. they would sell out within five minutes.
1937 - 1938 - The importance of Dovercourt Holiday Camp
Billy had asked Harold Ridley Hooper to design and construct a second camp in Dovercourt. It was told that this camp was operated as a Butlins from 1937 - 1938. However, it was used by the government for the use of children from Germany under the name of the "Kindertransport programme". The camp was never officially known as the second camp and was advertised as associated with Butlins. This explains why there are many accommodation units here that look like the original gem in Skegness in today's Butlins. The camp was known to be under the name of the Warners, close friends to Billy Butlin. Major Frank Bonds story (click here to read more) shows the connection to this story and how it's related.
Billy Butlin has his second location on his mind
Billy's camp is going very well and his plans for expanding the camp were on his mind. His vision was to have one in Clacton that represented his name. Arriving in 1936, he proposed the idea of building a Butlins in Clacton to receive a negative response from the councillors and residents. However, Billy is a clever man and sees this as a challenge. Inviting them to his Skegness camps, they would see that the camp had been beneficial for employment and for the local town with an increase of customers. Permission to build the second camp was given.
1938 - Major Frank Bond advertising the Butlin's Chalet
This was a part of the Dovercourt and Harwich Festival where they were advertising the Butlins chalets and the new proposed camps. So this must have been after Dovercourt, Skegness, Seaton and Northney camps and before Clacton and Ryde in 1938.
1938 - Major Frank Bond advertising the Butlin's Chalet
Another picture of the proposed chalets for the new camps. Dorothy Warner top left and I think that could be Cappy Bond, then Captain Harry Warner. Major Frank Bond slightly visible behind the ladies on the left.
You can view more about the important story of Major Frank Bond by click on these words
Honoured member, Major Frank Bond and Mandy Williams, have shared a photo above showing how they help promote the second location of Butlin's.
In 1939, Billy Butlin purchased the Thatched Barn in Borehamwood to start his first hotel in connection to his holiday camps. Having started plans to open the hotel, his plans would be stopped when the Station XV of the special operations executive requisitioned the building for the use of World War Two.
Holiday Inn, the location of the first Butlin's Hotel
The Borehamwood hotel would not come back to the Butlin's name as it was being used to train special agents in World War Two. The hotel was being used as a research station in the 1950 and then reverted back to being a hotel in the 1960s until the 1970s, having many film stars and filmmakers staying there. It was in the 1980s that we would see the end of Thatched Barn as it was demolished with a rebuild into a modern hotel. Up to 2020, it was the Holiday Inn hotel until Hilton purchased the location and opened it as Doubletree, which remains to this date. I would also like to note that I work near here and travel past it daily when coming from and going to work.
Click on these words to see further information about this location and it's important historic background
1939 - The Birth of Cherrie Butlin
Nora and Billy are extremely pleased to say that that Cherie is born in 1939. Cherie was also known as Cherry.
Butlin's is temporary close . Each camp is renamed to help with the war
Supporting the war, Billy Butlin would supervise the creation of two new camps to help train troops. These two new camps are based in AYR (Scotland) and Pwllheli (North Wales). Filey was being completed with financial support from the ministry. Clacton, Filey and Skegness were all renamed as Pwllheli and AYR did not start as a Butlins.
Butlin's Skegness is now called: HMS Royal Arthur,
Butlins Filey is called: RAF Hunmanby Moor
Butlins Clacton: Was going to be used as a prisoner of war camp, however, this was never was to happen. It was then used to train Pioneer Corps
The two new camps were officially opened as;
Pwllheli camp is named: HMS Glendower,
AYR camp is named: HMS Scotia
1941 - The birth of Sandra Butlin
Billy and Nora are extremely pleased to introduce their new family addition, Sandra Butlin. Sandra was born in 1941.
William Butlin works with the ministry
Billy is a person that has no time to sit around and do nothing as he continues to find ways to help others. Working for the ministry, Billy was asked to go around and see why the morale was low in the factories. It was at Royal Ordnance Factory in Chorley that Billy had seen the houses to be camouflaged with barbed wire around them. Billy could see and understand why the feeling was low and did what he did best, boost the morale of all people. He did this with his knowledge of the holiday camps and his experience at the fairs. Placing entertainment in place, his idea worked as his legacy continued to grow. Just like Butlin holiday camps, Billy had done something when it was needed the most.
Heritage Gateway
The Heritage Gateway has some impressive information about The Royal Ordnance Factory. Please click on the photo/screenshot to see more.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
William Butlin becomes the Director General of hostels
Billy was promoted to the role of Director-General of Hostels as his hard work helps so many people smile during a very hard time. Billy was all about the promotion of positive thinking as he introduces many people to the whist drives, amateur dramatics, theatrical productions, and cinema.
In 1943, he would insist that the staff members were to take their holiday entitlement whilst at home. Travelling fairs played a major role to help with boosting morale and giving a person a chance to smile.
The 21 Club
Billy was doing a great job as he was asked by Bernard Montgomery to set up the 21 clubs for the 21st army group. The club started in Brussels and spread though Europe very quickly as a place to go for rest for servicemen and women.
1944 - William Butlin receives a MBE
Billy Butlin had received an invitation to award him with a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his service to the ministry. Billy Butlin is extremely honoured to receive the MBE in 1944 for his wartime services and for what he has done to support the war.
1945 - 1946 - The gates of the camps reopen to show the Butlin's Logos
The war has come to an end and life has changed a great deal. The camps have started to make their way back to Billy. Here is the details of what happened and in what year below;
Butlins Skegness: 11th May 1946 it reopens as a holiday camp
Butlins Filey: May 1945, half the camp was returned back to Billy. With the help of RAF troops, it was reopened in 1945. However, it wall handed back later on that year, allowing for nearly 11000 customers to come and stay.
Butlins Clacton: This camp was damaged a great deal from the use of the troops. However, Billy had continued to bring it back to a holiday camp. It was reopened April 1946
Butlins Pwllheli: This camp was sold to Billy and opened as a Butlins in March 1947.
Butlins AYR: As with Pwllheli, it was sold to Billy and opened in 1947 as a Butlins.
Pwllheli had also received a dedicated train station, named at the time as Butlins Penychain railway station. Today, this remains under the name Penychaing Railway Station and is a request stop.
You can view more about this station by click on these words.
AYR Butlins also had a railway station dedicated to the camp for use of campers. Open in 1947, it would continue to serve the camp until 1968. The station was named Heads of Ayr Holiday Camp railway station
You can see more about this station by click on these words
1947 - Filey Holiday Camp Station
Short lined that served Butlin's between Hunmanby and Filey. The station had four long terminus platforms with no buildings in place. Coming off the train, you would come to a concourse where a Butlins road train was waiting for you for the express route to Butlin's Filey.
Disused Stations Website
An amazing website called Disused Stations has some amazing information about the Filey Holiday Camp station. Please click on their logo to view more about this amazing station and it's importance towards the Butlin's name.
* Small note: The logo is owned by the disused station website. They have not asked me to put this link on here. I offer this link as it's a safe website that shows additional information that you might find interesting to read.
1947 - Heads of AYR Railway Station
This station history starts from 1906 until its closure. The line that the station served was operated by the Maidens and Dunure light railway.
Further information about this railways station can be found at Wikipedia and by click on these words.
I would also recommend that you visit this link to see the name shown on the Maidens and Dunure light railway history
AYR Holiday Camp Railway Station
Further information about this station can be found on Wikipedia using the link below.
Please click on these words to see the extra information
Maidens and Dunure Light Railway
Click on the link below to view more information about the Maidens and Dunure Light railway, which served the Heads of AYR holiday camp station.
Please click on these words to see the extra information
1947 - Penychain Railway Station (also known as Butlin's Penychain Railway Station)
This station was originally opened as a halt in 1933 and used in 1940 to serve the new camp named HMS Glendower, which we know as Butlins Pwllheli. When Butlins opened at Pwllheli, the station would become very popular until the use of cars started to take over. Like Butlin's Filey, the station had a puffing Billy road train that would escort them to and from the station to the camp of joy.
You can read further information about this station at Wikipedia by click on these words.
Penychain railway station
Further information about this station can be found on Wikipedia using the link below.
Please click on these words to see the extra information
South Western Railway
See the arrivals and departures in real time on the official website for the station
Please click on these words to see the extra information
The first of Butlins holiday camps to be outside of the United Kingdom. Butlin's is one of the original camps to have kept to the original design. Further information is found in the timeline.
Billy Butlin (MBE) had a large challenge to get this camp up and running as there was different laws and rules to abide to. However, he made it a huge success and the camp become a legend in the Butlins timeline.
Butlins promotion for holidays abroad with a brand you trusted
Billy was determined to make the Butlins Caribbean work successfully. To help promote the new camp, he arranged for a mystery flight for guests at the cost of £129 each. They would arrive at the resort and see the new addition to Butlins and all that the camp offers.
Butlins in the Bahamas closes and sold.
It was never a failure when it comes to the Bahamas Butlins as Billy's idea was an excellent one but the timing was just out. Having to face the facts that the camp was not going to do well at this stage, he decided it was best to come back to the United Kingdom and Ireland to concentrate on the company. It was not soon after his departure that the interest had increased on the former Butlins camp, showing it was all about the timing. Billy was disappointed but was now more determined to get his company on the correct pathway. Billy Butlin is a clever man who knew what was needed to be done and when it was needed.
1954 - William Colborne Butlin passes away (Billy's Father)
Another sad day in the Butlins story arrived in 1954 when news arrived that Billy Butlin father had passed away. Information had shown that there was very little known about Billy Butlins father, William Colborne Butlin however, it was known that he remained in Cape town until his death.
1954 - The Butlin International Channel Swim
Some of the entrants of the swimming race sponsor by Billy Butlin (MBE) and the Daily Mail. This photo also shows a photo of Billy Butlin.
Butlin International Channel Swim 1954
Click on the screenshot to see further information about the Channel Swim in 1954, featuring Billy Butlin.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
Butlin's International channel swim 1964 Photo
Visit the Channel Swimming Dover to see a photo of the Butlin's International channel swim in 1954.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
1956 - Entrants for the Butlins International cross channel race
Showing the entrants of the 1956 Butlin's International cross channel swimming race.
Channel Swimming Dover
You can see further information about the International cross channel swimming race by clicking on the logo for the direct link. The website shows more information including photos of the swimmers that had taken part of the race.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
1957 - Butlin international cross channel swimming race featuring the Butlin's Queen Hotel
Showing a magnificent photo of Billy Butlin with the channel swimmers of 1957. In this photo, we see the iconic Redcoats on the side of the building with my hero in the middle, Billy Butlin. What a great photo and a recommend one to see.
Channel Swimming Dover
You can see further information about the International cross channel swimming race by clicking on the logo for the direct link. The website shows more information including photos of the swimmers that had taken part in the race. This page also includes a photo of the Redcoat statue and Sir Billy Butlin.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
1958 - Doris Mabel Butlin
Sad news arrives about the passing of Doris Butlin (Cheriton), Billy's first wife.
1958 - Norah Faith Cheriton and Billy Butlin MBE get married
With the passing of Doris, Billy and Norah are free to marry. After a long relationship, Billy Butlin and Norah would become husband and wife.
1959 - The Variety Club
In 1959, William "Billy" Butlin becomes the Chief Barker of the Variety Club, a position that he proud to present.
You can see more about Billy Butlin being in the variety club by click on these words
Variety Club
You can see footage of the variety club in 1959 with the Duke of Edinburgh by clicking on the screenshot shown.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
1896 - William Colborne Butlin and Bertha Cassandra Hill
To the surprise of Billy Butlin, he was presented with the great Redbook from Eamon Andrews. This happened on his wedding day, making it a complete surprise to Billy, in 1959.
Here is the video footage of Billy Butlin on the "This is your life" show. This video was uploaded by Fun Finder.
This is part one of two videos.
Norah Faith Butlin and Billy Butlin are separated
The relationship was not going very well with Norah and Billy as they drifted apart from each other. Unfortunately, the marriage had failed after a long relationship. Billy and Norah were married for several months before they separated. With little hope of the relationship getting better, it decided that it was best to end the marriage, however, like Dolly, Norah refused a divorce.
Sheila Edwina Devine and Billy Butlin start a relationship
With his relationship with Norah coming to an end, Billy would be Sheila Devine. They got to know each other very well and fell in love as they enjoyed each other company a great deal. Marriage was not going to be an option as Norah was still married to Billy however, their love was strong.
The story of the camp that was always meant to be is in Bognor Regis. At first, like Clacton, he was refused permission to have a camp represent his name in the town. However, Billy was always one step ahead and knew that having the zoo and shops there was enough for his name to be shown. It was much later, in 1960 that we see the council require the properties he has for development.
1960 - The birth of William (Junior) Butlin
Billy Butlin and Sheila are extremely pleased to introduce their son William Junior to the family. William is born in 1960 and known as Billy.
1960 - Carl Alan Awards
For his services to dance, Billy Butlin was awarded the Carl Alan Award.
The camp in Somerset and one of the largest ones in Butlins. This camp has remained very close to the way Billy Butlin had designed it.
Minehead was the only camp to receive a modern chalet rebuild on the former location of single decker accommodation and the carpark. It was planned for this location to have a hotel, however these plans have changed.
28th January 1963 - The Bill Butlin Charity Trust
Sir Billy and Lady Sheila Butlin open a new charity called "The Bill Butlin Charity Trust". The charity helped children, young people, elderly people and people with disabilities by giving grants to organisations.
You can see the charity register on the Charity Commission website by click on these words
Registered Charity
This shows the moment the charity was registered and starte d by Billy Butlin. Click on the screenshot to see more.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
The birth of Jacquie Butlin
Billy Butlin and Sheila are extremely pleased to introduce their daughter Jacquie Butlin.
** I am unable to find the year of when Jacquie was born, so placed it here as it's an important event in the timeline **
My apologies to Jacquie on not having the date filled in.
1964 - Congratulations is given to William Butlin, who is now a Sir. Now known as Sir Billy Butlin
Billy Butlin had the honour of being given the title "Sir". In 1964, Billy Butlin (William Butlin) was now to be known as Sir Billy Butlin (Sir William Butlin). This is not the first time that a Butlin has been knighted as his great grandfather Sir Henry Trentham Butlin was also knighted. Sir Billy Butlin is one of two people within his family to receive this honour.
1964 - 1965 - A Butlin's Icon - The Monorail Train at Skegness
Getting the idea of Disney, Sir Billy Butlin had asked a local firm to construct and start the designing of the monorail system in 1964. This was to be the first commercial monorail system in the United Kingdom costing £50,000. The monorail train was opened in Skegness in 1965, an icon was born and the image of Butlins had changed a great deal.
This is the second camp to be featured in Wales and it's told that if you went to the beach, Minehead camp will be in the background looking back at you.
1966 - The Variety Club
In 1966, William "Billy" Butlin becomes the Chief Barker of the Variety Club, a position that he proud to present.
You can see more about Billy Butlin being in the variety club by click on these words
Variety Club
You can see footage of the variety club in 1959 with the Duke of Edinburgh by clicking on the screenshot shown.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
1966 - Billy Butlin donates towards charity
Billy Butlin donated £100,000 into his Bill Butlin charity trust. This was in support of the police officers that were incapacitated or fatally injured while on active duty. This generous donation gained public support, which allowed the fund to grow to £250,000. This continued and went over £1 million pounds.
1966 - The opening of the top of tower restaurant
Located in London, the top of the tower restaurant is now known as the BT tower. The top of the building, also known as the Post Office Tower, had a revolving restaurant and this is where Sir Billy Butlin comes into the picture. This was leased to Sir Billy Butlin and Butlins until 1980.
1967 - The Monorail Train arrives to Minehead
The second Butlin's holiday camp to receive a Monorail train in Minehead, Somerset. This one was slightly different to the one in Skegness as the track is formed into a figure eight. Moving around the main entertainment venues, the trains would travel under and over each other.
1969 - Sir Billy Butlin officially retires
With the changes in the method of how income tax is calculated, Sir Billy Butlin was told that his contribution would be extremely high. Reviewing his options, Sir Billy made the decision to retire and move to Jersey, where the income tax was lower.
1968 - 1969 - Robert Butlin continues the legacy of Butlins
Robert Butlin is honoured and pleased to take the keys to Butlin's and keep the camps, hotels and many other businesses in the family. A vision like Sir Billy Butlin, the name we all love is in safe hands as a new generation of Butlin continues a legacy.
The history of advertising Trust
Click on the screenshot shown to see the history of advertising trust website page about the moment Robbie Butlin and Sir Billy Butlin shake hands as a new era of Butlin continues the legacy that Sir Billy Butlin had started.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
1969 - Robert Butlin has just started to lead Butlins when a large challenge arrives
With the task of running the company and keeping the smiles on the faces of the campers, Robert Butlin had a large challenge on his hands. The Phonographic Equipment company had their eyes on the business and attempts a takeover bid. Robert was challenging this and needed support from an expert. Calling his father, Sir Billy Butlin had returned back to Butlins from retirement as a consultant to help stop this take over. With both Robert and Sir Billy together, the take over was unsuccessful and with that done, Sir Billy would turn to his son and more than likely say "keep me posted on my business" and into retirement once more.
1970 -1974 - Heads of AYR and Ingoldmells Hotels closes
With competition growing with holidays aboard, changes had to be made within Butlin's. Reviewing what is on offer, the first major change to the company is the closure of the hotels in AYR and Ingoldmells. These two close down and the buildings are reused or demolished.
1972 - Butlin's has a new owner
In 1972, the Rank organisation had put in a bid to take over the company at the value of £43 million pounds. Sir Billy Butlin would discuss the options with his son Robert Butlin and agree to the takeover. With the shaking of hands, the keys of Butlins are handed over to Rank as the new owners. Robert Butlin continues to be the executive of the company with the Rank organisation being the people he reports to and chats with about any further changes to the Butlins company.
Logo is copyright to the Rank organisation and can be removed at any time. The Rank organisation has no connection to this website or the contents shown here.
1975 - Sheila Devine and Sir Billy Butlin get married
Sir Billy and Sheila Devine are very happy to say the words "I do". From this date, Sheila would be known as Mrs Butlin.
1975 - Sir Billy Butlin becomes the Chief Barker at the Variety Club
In 1975, Sir William "Billy" Butlin becomes the Chief Barker of the Variety Club, a position that he proud to present.
Variety Club
You can see footage of the variety club in 1975 with the Duke of Edinburgh by clicking on the screenshot shown.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
1980 - An extremely sad day that no Butlins staff member wanted to hear was in 1980.
In 1980, the sad news had been told that Sir Billy Butlin had passed away. His legacy continues as Butlins says goodbye to its founder. Billy Butlin had done some amazing job creating a company that done so much for so many people. It was told that many members of staff and customers had raised their drink is respect to Sir Billy Butlin on this day.
Married to Lady Shelia, Billy was buried in Jersey with his grave in the shape of a double bed with the fairground image on his grave. May you rest in peace Sir Billy Butlin and thank you for all you have done and what a story.
1980 - Butlins Holiday Camp Mosney Closes
The gates in Mosney Butlin's closes for the last time as a Butlin's. It's a sad day in the time line as the camp is no longer apart of the Butlin's company. This was also the only camp to be outside the United Kingdom.
1980 - The top of the tower restaurant closes
With the lease expiring for the the restaurant, the decision is made to close down the Butlin's top of the tower restaurant in the post office tower (also known as the BT Tower)
1983 - Norman Bradford - the first Redcoat passes away
We pay our respects to the passing of Norman Bradford, the original and first Butlin's Redcoat. Norman also played a major part in the building of the Skegness camp. Thank you for being the creator of the meaning of Redcoat and know that all Redcoats continue to show the love, happiness and joy of the meaning "Butlin's Redcoat".
The Skegness Magazine
There is some wonderful information from the Skegness magazine published in 2010 showing Norman Bradford, an important person in the history of Butlins and it's time line. Click on the screenshot shown to view the amazing website that tells you a great deal of information about the first and original Redcoat.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
1983 - Butlins Holiday Camp Clacton Closes
Sad news arrived when the current owners, Rank organisation, had decided to close down Butlin's Clacton. The second eldest camps would close its gates as a Butlins forever in time. It was told that they were closed due to a lack of interest in customers booking at these locations and competition from people going on holiday aboard more.
1983 - Butlins Holiday Camp Filey Closes
Sad news arrived when the current owners, Rank organisation, had decided to close down Butlin's Filey. The third eldest camps would close its gates as a Butlins forever in time. It was told that they were closed due to a lack of interest in customers booking at these locations and competition from people going on holiday aboard more.
1984 - Robert Butlins steps down as leader of Butlins
In 1984, Robert Butlin had made the decision to no longer run Butlins. This was a sad moment in Butlins as there was now no Butlin family member involved with the highest level decisions.
1986 - Butlins Holiday Camp Barry Island Closes
More sad news arrives as an important camp where the Butlins idea started from and where Sir Billy Butlin was still in control of the company had arrived. The owners at the time, Rank organisation, had made the decision to close down Barry Island Butlins. There were plans to keep it originally, however, this was to never happen. The camp closed its gates at the end of 1986 as a Butlins camp, with only one other camp now in Wales.
1990 -1991 - New changes made to AYR and Pwllheli holiday camps
Rank had changed the name of the AYR and Pwllheli camps once more. I have always referred to these two camps as the twins as they were created originally for the support of the war and then both became Butlin's and then to be the only two that were renamed again during Holiday Worlds....and then there is another twist in 1999!
Pwllheli Holiday World is renamed to Butlins Starcoast World
AYR Holiday World was renamed to Wonderwest World
1993 - The opening of the Butlin's Hotel in London
Butlin's has opened in London and is named The Grand Hotel
1996 - Celebrating Butlin's with the Diamond Jubilee
Rank transforms the camps to show many photos of Sir Billy Butlin and introduce the history back the camps. There is much that has been down to show this amazing moment in Butlins History.
1996 - Butlin's story had to be told
In honour of the rich history of Butlin's , museums were open to show more about Sir Billy Butlin and the history of the amazing name we love.
1999 - All Butlins Hotels are closed down
Rank's changes to the Butlins name also included all the hotels closing down and being sold. In 1999, there is no hotels that represent the Butlin's name at this stage. There were plans at the start to keep them however, the plans were changed.
It's a very sad moment in the timeline as the Butlins name is now only represented by three remaining resorts.
2000 - 2001 - Butlin's, Havens , Warners and Oasis have new owner
The Rank organisation strong connection to the Butlin's story finishes here as the last remain three Butlins are sold to Bourne Leisure Limited. Rank had made some major changes to their business which included selling their holiday division. This included Butlins, Havens, Warners and Oasis.
Further information about this subject can be found by clicking on these words
You can also see further information by click on these words
2008 - Robert Butlin passes away
We pay our respects to the passing of Robert Butlin as he passes away in 2008.
The Telegraph Announcements
Advertising the death of Robert Butlin, which the highest respect given from this website. Please click on the screenshot to view more.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
26th April 2011- The Bill Butlin Charity Trust Closes Down
The charity was run separated from the company and was under another ownership. Records show that this was the date the charity had been closed.
2014 - New Style Chalet being built at Minehead
On the former location of the single-decker accommodation and parts of the car park are these new build chalets.
You can see the Westlake chalets by clicking on these words
You can see the Bayside Apartments by clicking on these words
2016 - Rest in peace Lady Shelia Butlin
We pay our respect to Lady Shelia Butlin as she passes away.
You can see more information on the Variety Club, showing how much charity work Lady Shelia had done
Variety Club
Click on the screenshot to see the variety club honor Lady Butlin with such a wonderful article.
Small note: the design is from the their website and can be removed from here at any time.
2018 - Bourne Leisure Limited invest £40 million pounds into Bognor Regis Resort
In a large investment plan, Bourne continue to show how much they are in the Butlins name as they continue to invest more money into the resorts. Still free to use within your package deal, this new swimming pool brings a lot of the original Butlins into its theme.
2019 - Former staff accommodation is removed and replaced with new caravan type of design in Minehead
The staff accommodation unit at the rear has been demolished at Butlin's Minehead. The reason for this is unknown at this time, however, I would say it's about the age of the units and the sea air not helping. In 2019, these were demolished and removed however, planning permission was already submitted to have replacements in this location.
The image above is copyright to Google Maps.
2020 - New staff caravans at Minehead
Bourne and Butlins have submitted planning permission to build caravans at the rear of the resort for the use of staff and replace what has been removed. Planning permission has been granted.
2020 - Bognor Regis Pavilion removal Proposal
Permission has been submitted for the removal of the old pavilion at Bognor Regis. Development of the area has been submitted to have this removed with a restoration of the area. At this moment, the pavilion remains in place.
2021 - Ingoldmells building is to be removed with a new replacement arcade coming soon!
Butlin's had announced that the former hotel building, known as the Ingoldmells building was to be removed. However, they also told us that the location is going to see a new arcade being built in it's place.
2020 - 2021 - Minehead Reds get's bigger!
Butlin's have announced that they are making their Reds entertainment bigger to help with the amount of guests on the resort. This means that a short of 300 additional people can now see the shows in this wonderful venue. With much history, we also see the relocation of the stage for the first time in so many years.
2021 - Hello Studio 36!
The photo above is from Butlins.com, showing off their new buildings being introduced to the three resorts. This is to help with the restrictions that must be followed with the pandemic and offer more options of entertainment for all the Butlin's guests.
Minehead: The former location of the Beachcomber will feature this new building.
Bognor Regis: The former location of the old swimming pool.
Skegness: I have been told it's near the funfair but not yet confirmed, any chance anyone looking at this can let me know ;)
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