ALMOST six decades ago, a population of 197,000 enjoyed 11 cinemas, an ice rink, the Grand Theatre, Royal Pier, a lido and a multi-sport stadium.

Southampton had something for everybody in 1959, and it was looking forward to a bright future, leaving the dark and austere post-war years behind.

Southampton Corporation were keen to promote the town (it became a city in 1964) as a place on the move, and so produced an official town handbook – The Gateway to Britain.

The handbook stated: “Vast new schemes for housing, shopping and industry have eliminated most of the air-raid scars, and the modern town taking shape is evidence of the efforts which should make prosperity in the future amply secure

“Certainly you will find a spirit of enterprise both at work and at play, which shows that the people of Southampton will be in the forefront of Britain’s expanding prosperity, and visitors as well as people coming to live here will find a welcome to participate in the community’s activities.

“Many people from a wide area find shopping in Southampton is pleasure and profitable and included in the many fine stores, where assistants are noted for their courtesy, is Edwin Jones, the largest on the south coast.”

Southampton Guildhall was held in high regards and considered the main centre for entertainment for those living locally.

“Concerts are held at which orchestras and and artistes of world renown are presented,” said the handbook.

It also mentioned the myriad of Southampton’s recreation facilities on the Common and at the sports centre, described as “the finest of its kind in the Commonwealth”.

“Facilities available to the general public at a moderate charge are enhanced by two refreshment pavilions,” said the book.

The book went on to speak of the city’s position as the country’s premier ocean passenger port and leading cargo centre.

“Some 30 of the principal shipping companies link Southampton with all parts of the world.

“Annually the net tonnage of the shipping using the port is now over 21 million. Between 650,000 and 690,000 passengers are dealt with and 19 million tons of cargo is handled.”