News

I saw a column of smoke rising from the roof of the Ritz

Saturday, July 21, 2007

One fine morning in April I looked to the south towards the pavilion and I saw a column of smoke rising from the roof of the Ritz. I took a rowing boat and rowed across the bay to investigate. By the time I reached the Ritz the whole building was fully ablaze. I could not get very close because of the great heat. It was a tragic sight that this lovely building should disappear before my very eyes. My friend told me that she had heard the news on the radio she lived on the Isle of wight. An hour later the Ritz was completly gutted only the frontage and foyer survived.

Tony Bugler

Weymouth Reference Library

From our local studies collection we have found a few references.

In 1958 Councilor Wallis wanted it called the Royal Pavilion.

In November 1958 it was referred to as the New Ritz.

On Pg 4 of the Echo 11.3.1959 there was reference to a competition for naming it.

On the 12.3.1959 in the Entertainments and Beach Committee minutes there is a reference to this competition.

In March 1960 it was referred to as Weymouth Pavilion.

We, Weymouth Reference Library, cannot however, find any material regarding a winner of the competition or a special naming ceremony.

'When I'm Calling You'

Sunday, July 08, 2007

Lorraine Swire who now lives in Falmouth, Cornwall told us recently of of how "We were a large family & did not attend many shows. My memory of actually going into the Pavilion was to see Rose Marie (Weymouth Operatic Society). I thought it was wonderful - I had never seen any such thing before. I am 68 now but still remember the duet 'When I'm Calling You', the scenery & the thrill of the whole evening. It was the start of an enthusiasm for musical shows which has lasted until the present day."

Lorraine also recalls the day the Pavilion burned - she watched with some friends on the seafront by the Jubilee Clock.