Step Back in Time at Portland Basin Museum

DO you remember items like top-loading video recorders or even Ewbank carpet cleaners that were once to be found in almost every home but have now disappeared?

They both feature in “Step Back in Time” the new exhibition at Portland Basin Museum, Ashton, which opens on Saturday, May 7.

“Step Back in Time” – which continues until October 30 – takes looks at life over the last 100 years, featuring objects from every decade such as the pre-war Art Deco movement, the space race of the 1960s, the technological advances of the 1980s and the 2002 Manchester Commonwealth Games.

Themes covered will include technology, diet, toys, and popular pastimes. A display of clothing features a wartime ATS (Auxiliary Territorial Service) uniform, a pair of 1970s flared trousers, and a 1990s puffer jacket.

A Tameside Council spokesman said: “It’s amazing how many things that are now largely forgotten were once to be seen in our homes every day. In the 1980s video recorders sold in their millions, yet within 15 years they were being replaced by DVDs and now we have streaming services.

“‘Step Back in Time’ offers a chance to look at such items from the last 100 years. It’s a very enjoyable exhibition and one which we’re sure will cause some surprises and bring back more than a few memories.”

Portland Basin Museum, Portland Place, Ashton, OL7 is open Tuesdays to Sundays (10am to 4pm) and admission is free. There is no need to book your visit. 

www.tameside.gov.uk/portlandbasin