And in Blackpool, right at the beating heart of it was the legendary Zone events. They were the home of dance music, long before the genre became truly mainstream. It was completely new and exploded into a culture of its own. Zone started in 1991 by founders Debby D and Barry Jay and predominantly featured Italian House music.
While the event began life at Jenks Bar, Zone has had many homes in the resort including The Venue, Syndicate and The Palace, as well as homes outside of Blackpool such as The Mill in Preston and Maximes in Wigan. These photos are courtesy of those people who lived and loved the music – they tell a story and go right back to the beginning. Many thanks to Kelly Dawson, Zone at the Venue and to those who have kindly contributed their picture memories.
. Zone at the Venue
Another great photo of pals enjoying the rave scene at Blackpool's Zone at the Venue club - not a phone in sight Photo: submit
. Zone at the Venue
This has to be one of the best pictures to emerge from the Zone days - and everyone looks so young! (sorry guys) What a moment in time... three decades ago Photo: submit
. Zone at the Venue
All glow sticks and white gloves - these guys were immersed in the music on the stage at Zone Photo: submit
. Zone at the Venue
Loving life... Photo: submit
. Zone at the Venue
Thank you to Craig Campbell for this photo. He summed it up perfectly saying 'What a place the Venue was best club best people with the best music' Pictured on stage are Zone legends MC Breeze and MC Wizard Photo: submit
. Zone at the Venue
Kerry Whittaker with DJ Chris Baker Photo: submit
. Zone at the Venue
So many memories... Photo: submit
1. Zone at the Venue
Another great photo of pals enjoying the rave scene at Blackpool's Zone at the Venue club - not a phone in sight Photo: submit
2. Zone at the Venue
This has to be one of the best pictures to emerge from the Zone days - and everyone looks so young! (sorry guys) What a moment in time... three decades ago Photo: submit
3. Zone at the Venue
All glow sticks and white gloves - these guys were immersed in the music on the stage at Zone Photo: submit
4. Zone at the Venue
Loving life... Photo: submit