Another beautiful town not on the motorway network , visited many times , scenic run from Buxton.
Never come across wrestling there before , but finally I have some in the Golden Age.
The Ritz Cinema opened in 1922 to seat 940 people and clear from the bills that Billy Shinfield , an ex boxer and Manager from Alfreton was running in conjunction with Joint Promotions. Would have thought Wryton as they were at Buxton.
Billy Shinfield died age 82 in 1989.
A mile away and often said to be a separate place , Matlock Bath. The grand Pavilion was only for about 300 people , but was the biggest Hall in the area. The Indy's were experts at making a profit out of such small capacity. Some familiar names , but I am not going to guess at the actual promoter(s)
Some unknown names on the first bill as far as I am concerned.
I love looking at these old posters. Most of the names I know from Heritage. But what about Jack Valonte? He seems to be in a main supporting match. Anyone any ideas?
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It's fascinating how the independents with their lesser known names could compete, and often outdo Joint Promotions with their familiar names made famous by television. At Preston, where I watched, the Cape Promotion shows in the 1960s often seemed to have bigger crowds than the Norman Morrell shows. There were exceptions, of course, but in no way could the independents be said to be second class. Those independent bills at Matlock Baths have a Cape Promotions look, but very strange to have such an underwhelming bill in that first show.
Looking at the Matlock Bath independent shows - October 3rd and 31st, November 16th all have well known names on the independent circuit at the time - Angus, Curry, O'Shea, Matu, Monster, Klondyke, Moser, Zulu, Armstrong. But then look at the December bill, a ladies match and six unknowns in support. Very odd.
Well worth visiting the Heights of Abraham near Matlock Bath. Surprised such a genteel place would have a woman's match in 1966 when it was still very controversial
Lovely part of the world!