Joining Tom Jackson to discuss the postcards from their pasts are historians Karen Averby (Seaside Hotels, Beach Huts) and, from the London School of Economics, Dr Alex Mayhew. We meet the Brummies of North Devon, Pete Seeger and Joan Baez at the Albert Hall, Mr George next door, and look for a better picture of ruins. Taking a close look at the postcards of the First World War and seaside Grand Hotels, our guests share cards from their collections.  Wish you were here?

Hayling Island multiview, 1973. “Dear E.L.S. Having a lovely time. Weather is smashing I am missing our telly. But I shall make up for it when we get home. Donna & ted send their kind regards. Love from Rosie, ted, Donna xxx”

Alex’s card sent home from the trenches in 1917.
Karen’s prized novelty card. It was sent by her mother’s neighbour to his sweetheart, but was either never delivered, or returned.
Liverpool Cathedral. “Weather lousy but having a nice time. Went up to coast last week otherwise haven’t done anything much. Please could you see if you can get tickets for Pete Seeger’s concert at Albert Hall on Oct. 2nd & see if Joan Baez is doing one? (She’s in Manchester). Hope work’s all right. See you Sund. Love Kate”
Alex’s card showing the ruins of the square at Arras, and the paper packet in which the series of postcards were sold.
Karen’s card showing the Grand Hotel Torquay. Karen’s Book on Seaside Hotels is out now.
A musical postcard from Melody Cards.