Yes, the Blackpool Casino was also the first soul venue that I went to, although it can't be said that it was 100% soul, as the balcony bar (an outside balcony I must add, with brilliant views up the prom) played more pop oriented stuff at times.
However, it was downstairs in front of the decks with Gary Wilde that the real magic was. Ok, perhaps the go-go dancers up on stage did not fit in with northern soul, but...........
The Casino must also have been one of the first soul clubs on the go, but rarely receives a mention anywhere, although Gary's name does pop up now and again.
My ulimate memory is hearing Marvin's 'Little Darlin' ' for the first time and it is still my number one favourite.