Hello Campers, Guests and Staff
Why I chose to write a Drama novel about Sir Billy Butlin?
The answer began with two simple questions.
The first was personal. I found myself wondering what my own life would have been like if, at seventeen years old, I had never walked through the gates of Butlin's and put on a Redcoat uniform in 1988. Looking back now, I realise that decision shaped the rest of my life. The confidence it gave me, the lifelong friendships I made, the opportunities that followed and the memories I still treasure all began there.
But then another question came to me—one that was much bigger.
What if Billy Butlin had never stepped ashore in Liverpool with just five pounds in his pocket and an ambition to build a better life?
What if he had never opened that first holiday camp?
How many friendships would never have been made? How many marriages would never have happened? How many children—and grandchildren—would never have been born because their parents first met at Butlin's? How many careers would never have begun? How many lives, including my own, would have taken an entirely different path?
The more I thought about it, the more I realised that Billy Butlin's legacy cannot simply be measured in holiday camps or successful businesses. It lives in millions of ordinary lives that were changed because one man believed working families deserved laughter, entertainment and a holiday they could afford.
I honestly believe what Billy Butlin created will never be repeated. He didn't simply build holiday camps; he created memories that have been passed down through generations.
That is why writing The Man Who Made Summer became so important to me.
This project is my way of saying thank you—not only to Sir Billy Butlin, but also to every Redcoat, entertainer, chalet maid, lifeguard, waiter, bar person, maintenance worker and member of staff who helped bring his vision to life. Together, they created something far greater than any one individual could have achieved.
I have been overwhelmed by the photographs, films and stories people have shared while these books were being written. Every picture captures a moment in time. Every memory tells a story. That is why this website exists—not simply to promote two books, but to preserve those memories for future generations.
If you have a photograph, stories, films from your time at Butlin's, staff or holidaymakers, and you want to leave your own thank you to Sir Billy, I hope you'll share them here. This archive belongs to everyone whose life was touched by Sir Billy Butlin and his remarkable dream.
Finally, thank you for supporting this project and for helping to keep those memories alive.
I hope that as you read Billy's story, you'll discover a little of your own within its pages.
Steve Hale