John Gill, a Yorkshire native, has a unique relationship with Scarborough, a seaside town on the North Sea coast. His childhood memories are intertwined with annual day trips to this coastal escape, organized by the local Working Men’s Club. These excursions, despite their simplicity and occasional chaos, were the highlights of his year.
John vividly recalls the coach journeys, filled with the scent of disinfectant and punctuated by unexpected stops. The destination, Scarborough, offered a world of amusements, ice cream stands, and cafes serving the quintessential “pensioners’ special” – fish and chips with mushy peas, bread, and tea.
Decades later, John returns to Scarborough, camera in hand. The town, in many ways, remains unchanged. Families still stroll along the seafront, enjoying the same attractions he did as a child. The cafes continue to serve their classic dishes, and the amusement arcades still buzz with activity.
John’s photographs capture the essence of Scarborough – a blend of nostalgia and reality. The images reflect the town’s unchanging spirit, even as its shine has faded alongside the decline of nearby industrial towns.
John’s approach to photography is candid and quick. He understands the suspicion people have towards photographers, especially in working-class areas. This awareness fuels his need for speed and discretion, allowing him to capture genuine moments without staged poses or forced smiles.
His photographs offer a glimpse into the lives of everyday people on the streets of Scarborough. We see families enjoying their holidays, couples sharing a laugh, and individuals lost in thought. Each image tells a story, a fragment of life frozen in time.
You can see more of John’s photos on his site.
