25 Blackpool memories of Northern Soul at the heartlands of Mecca Highland Room and Blackpool Tower Ballroom

These pictures capture the magic of Northern Soul where Blackpool was its heartland in the 1970s.

Blackpool’s Mecca - in particular the Highland Room - became synonymous with the music movement, a genre with a fast, steady beat and simple lyrics. Thousands of people would flock to the resort for all-nighters, immersing themselves in the vibe. The photos dug from our archives reflect the whole scene back to the early days.