Brighton Rock 30 & 40s

Brighton's reputation between the wars is largely defined by Graham Greene's famous novel Brighton Rock, published in 1938. He describes a rather unsavoury place with London gangs running protection rackets and violence and extortion as the norm in Brightton back alleys.

This wasn't the whole picture. Brighton was still a very popular holiday destination. Art Deco landmarks such as Saltdean Lido and Shoreham airport were opened and the Brighton Dome was redesigned in the art deco style.

It was also the era of the giant cinemas such as the Regents, Savoy, Astoria, Odeon and Essoldo, many of which have now disappeared.

• 1930s Shorham airport starts scheduled passenger flights to the Isle of Wight, Croydon, Deauville and Jersey.
  
• 1934-5 The Brighton Dome is redesigned and opens as the town's principal concert, conference and entertainment hall.
  
• 1937 Saltdean lido opens
  
• 1938 Brighton Rock by Graham Greene is published