Date of closure: TBC
Address (for reference only):
Independent (Lost Halls)
Queen Street
Penzance
Cornwall
TR18 4BJ
Ritz Bingo operated previously as Mecca Bingo, but further than that, our knowledge of the life of the bingo hall is a bit lacking, so if you could assist us, please contact us and let us know what you know. Our site visitors would be very appreciative.
The club started life as the Ritz Cinema in 1936, and designed by A.H. Jones it had a fin above the entrance which was a not uncommon design feature of the day for theatres. It only lasted a year before being taken over by ABC Cinemas in 1937, as part of their drive to monopolise the British cinema industry. Not a stranger to takeovers, the cinema was taken over by Union Cinemas from its independent owners even before the building was completed. It closed as a cinema in 1965, which was a bad year for cinemas, and was taken over by Rank who then became Mecca Bingo. It was reportedly earmarked for demolition and conversion to private residential properties, although we are not sure whether or not this has actually occurred.
I was the chief bingo caller here 1978 until 1981. Does anyone have any pictures to share please?
I was a caller there 1970 joy Lawrywas the manageress it was early days of mecca Eric Morley was a big presence in those days
I did a stint here (Caller) for a few years, during the early 1980s. It went from Mecca to Top Rank, then passed into the hands of Eric Cotter : under whose ownership it rapidly failed to remain sustainable.
I recall working working with, among others; ‘Poppy’ (who became a gentlemen’s outfitter), Gillian (who married a Bobby Ball look-alike), ‘Scatty’ Sally (who was neither scatty or really called Sally), Linda, Mary, Sheila and others whose faces remain with me but whose names have faded. I would love to see more details and names added if you are able.
Hi I’m trying to find the bingo caller during the 1970s I last saw him about 1975-77 he was slim with dark hair came from Camborne
I use to work here i remember Alan Mike etc Ron was manager and Owen was to i believe this was in 1976 onwards
Hi mike i remember you i was shelley i married Danny rogers
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