27 incredible pictures from Blackpool's 1953 FA Cup final triumph

Today marks a special day in Blackpool’s history, with it being the 70th anniversary of the club’s greatest triumph.

By Matt Scrafton

Published 2nd May 2023, 07:00 BST

On May 2, 1953, Blackpool fought back from 3-1 down to beat Bolton Wanderers 4-3 in the FA Cup final at Wembley.

To mark the occasion, we’ve dug deep into our archive to find some incredible photos from the day itself, plus the celebrations that followed back in Blackpool.

Take a look through them here...

The Queen presents the FA Cup to Blackpool captain Harry Johnston

1. A moment in history

The Queen presents the FA Cup to Blackpool captain Harry Johnston Photo: submit

The cup winning team photographed by The Gazette in their Wembley tracksuits on April 14, 1953

2. Preparation

The cup winning team photographed by The Gazette in their Wembley tracksuits on April 14, 1953 Photo: submit

Crowds packed into Central Station on the way to Wembley

3. Setting off

Crowds packed into Central Station on the way to Wembley Photo: submit

A section of the official match day programme.

4. 1953 cup final 4.JPG

A section of the official match day programme. Photo: Submitted

The Atomic Boys in London for the final before travelling to Downing Street to present the Prime Minister with a stick of Blackpool rock

5. Up for the cup

The Atomic Boys in London for the final before travelling to Downing Street to present the Prime Minister with a stick of Blackpool rock Photo: Steve Szydlowski

Manager Joe Smith and captain Harry Johnston lead out the Seasiders

6. The big kick-off

Manager Joe Smith and captain Harry Johnston lead out the Seasiders Photo: Submit

Blackpool Wembley Bolton Wanderers