Main Bay

From the collection of

Screen Archive South East at the University of Brighton
Screen Archive South East at the University of Brighton collects, preserves, catalogues and provides public access to its collection of films and magic lantern slides. The collection charts the rise of screen culture in the region and the nation and captures many aspects of life, work and creativity in the South East from the late 19th century to the present day. It is available for research, screenings, creative re-use and commercial access.

Main Bay


Enid Brigg's film starts with swimmers enjoying the water while dinghies sail in the background. Visitors then take their seats for a minstrel show at Uncle Mack's end-of-the-pier show after which we see rowboats for hire and a brave man diving from a wooden post. Back on the jetty, visitors queue for tickets at Uncle Mack's, while the minstrels, without black make-up, mix with the crowds. After a potato contest we end with children enjoying a mass Shrove Tuesday boat ride.


Tags