Gala Baths- West Bromwich

[Velvett Fogg]

Gala Baths

West Bromwich

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Like Thimblemill Baths, in Bearwood and Bromsgrove Baths
Many local bands played at these winter converted swimming pools.
Really they were the last of the bigger dance hall venues,
with pubs and clubs taking over as the main band venues

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Note the stage on the right of the picture

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Also many top acts appeared and the quote below relates this.
The pool was covered over with a highly sprung dance floor,
and The Gala Baths became The Gala Hall.
It looked very grand with the orchestra dais, and the hall
bedecked with flowers and plants.
The Gala Hall attracted many famous symphony orchestras
Including one broadcasting Friday Night is Music Night
There were famous live dance bands and these were
regularly broadcast on the Light Wave
I remember seeing George Melley and the Chris Barber Jazz Musicians.
Dancing was wonderful, and I attended many with my friends,
on the promise I was back 10.30pm.

The Gala Hall was also the venue for many schools
occasions, and activities such as Morris Dancing
and other Concerts and Presentations.
They were very happy days.