Telephone Cables: Fete and Gala Day, Dagenham (1959)

Cowboys, archery, fancy dress and skittles – it’s all the fun of the fair for workers at Dagenham’s Telephone Cables factory for their annual fair in 1959.

Brilliant colour footage of the annual social fete held by Dagenham’s Telephone Cables at their sports ground. The highlight is the display of lassoing by TV cowboy Cal McCord, but there’s also games, archery, marching bands, gymnastics and races to enjoy. A marvellous look at what would have been an annual highlight for workers and their family. Interesting also to note the surprisingly casual wear of many present.

Barking & Dagenham Heritage and Archives Service