Gorbachev visits Canvey in 1963

at the Sewerage Works Ground Breaking Ceremony

Left to right:Russian, Russian, Benfleet Communist Party member, Gorbachev, Millie Blackwell Labour Councillor, George Blackwell Labour Councillor, Cecil Klingsick Communist Party Canvey and Bert Tibbles Conservative Councillor.
Martin Klingsick

This picture was given to us by Martin Klingsick whose father, Cecil was a member of the Communist Party on Canvey. The gathering was at the ground breaking ceremony for the new sewerage works in November 1963. Martin believes Gorbachev is the man on the left. Can anyone remember the visit if so please make a comment below.

Comments about this page

  • Yes that was Gorbachev shaking hands with my Dad George Blackwell, who was Chairman of Canvey Council at that time, with my Mother looking on. They both served on Canvey Council for many years and worked very hard for the Islanders.

    By Barry Blackwell (08/02/2014)
  • I have just been informed by my Russian friend that Gorbachev is in fact the gentleman on the left with hat and cigarette.

    By Phil Bowman (09/11/2021)

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