"Shard" is apparently derived from an old Roman word denoting a low point in the river (i.e. a river crossing), and this point is the first low point along the River Wyre up from the Estuary. It was apparently used by Roman troops as they travelled from near Preston (Ribchester) to the Irish Sea. The area also featured in later English and Scottish history from the 17th and 18th centuries, now it is a quiet backwater on the outskirts of Blackpool, largely overshadowed by the Lakes and Dales to the north and east.
Interesting history behind the scene too :)
Ian