This camp was built in the 1930s and was formerly known as Sussex Ideal Holiday Chalets. It was acquired by Fred Pontin in 1947 for £38,600, only one year after starting his holiday camp business.
A new ballroom was added in 1960, more land was acquired in 1962 and it was extensively rebuilt during the mid-1960s with all new brick chalets arranged in single-storey blocks.
In 1966 comedian Tony Dennis was suspended for using the f-word during his music-hall act but was reinstated after 800 campers signed a petition.
The camp could accommodate around 1300 people and was a full board facility which meant that all meals were included and were taken in the huge communal dining room. Chalets were not equipped with any kitchen or lounge facilities.
It was closed in 1985 and the land sold for housing. Where was it located exactly? Look for the roads Shalbourne Crescent, Elcombe Close and Woodborough Close as these are all built on the old camp.
