In Search of Old Paignton - the Old Customs House

We went on a guided history walk of the harbour area today. I was delighted that a friend from the 'north country' was visiting and was able to join us. It was lovely to see her.We began at St Andrew's Church in Sands Road, constructed of red brick and very interesting. One of its main features- a beautifully decorated Victorian WC for the use of the clergy. Another interesting convenience is the above. These public toilets by the harbour were originally the Coastguard Station, then the old Customs House, before conversion into public conveniences in 1936. At that time the Harbourmaster was the only woman Harbourmaster in the British Isles, whose very name, Mis Stella Gale, was a warning to shipping.

In Search of Old Paignton - Number 2