Ever wondered why so many people from Leicester seem to have a soft spot for seaside towns? It turns out, Hunstanton—affectionately dubbed 'Leicester-on-Sea'—has long been a cherished second home for Leicester folk. But here’s where it gets intriguing: this connection isn’t just a modern trend. In his latest column, Hunstanton writer John Maiden delves into this enduring bond, spotlighting the work of a remarkable town photographer and reflecting on his own 88th birthday.
Maiden begins by sharing how a retired professional photographer’s lens can transform the way we see our hometown. On February 4, 2026, Your Local Paper featured Tony Shelley, a Leicester resident and frequent visitor to Hunstanton, whose black-and-white photographs capture the town’s timeless charm—from its dramatic cliffs and iconic lighthouse to the bustling promenade and the elegant Princess Theatre. These images serve as a reminder that Hunstanton has managed to preserve its unique character, a quality cherished by both locals and visitors.
But here’s the part most people miss: Tony, currently battling cancer and undergoing chemotherapy, is planning an exhibition in Leicester this April that will celebrate Hunstanton’s beauty. Once he completes his treatment—seven cycles to go—he and his wife, Cathy, plan to spend two weeks recuperating in their beloved seaside town. Their story is just one thread in a larger tapestry of connections between Leicester and Hunstanton.
Take, for instance, the clifftop shelter near the esplanade gardens, erected in honor of the retired owner and editor of the Leicester Mercury who made Hunstanton his home in the late 19th century. Or Phil Thomas, Treasurer of the Hunstanton Society, who has become a trusted authority on the town’s history and proudly calls it 'Leicester-on-Sea.' These ties run deep, nurtured by dedicated committee members and volunteers who warmly welcome visitors to the Heritage Centre at the junction of Northgate and Greevegate.
On a personal note, Maiden reflects on reaching his 88th birthday, now the sole surviving member of his family with ties to the town. He fondly remembers his sister, Patsy Burgess, who passed away at 85, and suggests a unique way to honor his memory: instead of visiting his grave on Alexandra Road, why not donate to the Sue Ryder charity shop in Westgate? And this is where it gets controversial: while Alexandra Road remains unpaved, a recent visit to the Old Town Beach Cafe for a vegan snack with his wife, younger daughter, and son-in-law revealed a pleasant surprise—the path to the Lifeboat and the Cafe had been properly surfaced. Who was the generous benefactor behind this improvement? Maiden is still curious to find out.
This blend of personal history, community spirit, and enduring connections makes Hunstanton more than just a seaside town—it’s a place where memories are made and legacies live on. But here’s the question: What makes Hunstanton so special to Leicester folk, and could other towns foster such a lasting bond? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going!
