West Runton

West Runton lies on the North Norfolk coast between Cromer and Sheringham. Beacon Hill - at 330 feet - lies within the parish and is the second highest point in Norfolk. West Runton was also the birth place of Chris Sugden - alias Sid Kipper (see Trunch).

West Runton's other claim to fame was the West Runton Pavilion - one of the most unlikely music venues in the country. Originally a dance hall, it was bought in the 1970s by Frank Boswell. However, the dance hall wasn't making any money and after various redevelopment plans were turned down by the planners he decided to open it as a music venue. The plan paid off and Norfolk acquired its very own 'on-sea' Hammersmith Odeon.

The venue, which was a long way off the beaten track, proved to be an ideal place for groups wanting to try out new material before embarking on UK tours. It was also difficult to reach for music journalists, so groups could warm-up in a safe and unusual environment. The opening of the Pavilion also coincided with the explosion of Punk Rock and many of the new bands played there including - most notably - The Sex Pistols. In fact, the venue hosted many of the biggest names in rock, punk and new wave at the time. Here are some of the highlights:

In 1981, I saw Blue Oyster Cult at the pavilion playing a warm-up gig as 'Soft White Underbelly'.
 

Links:

West Runton Pavilion Scrap Book