All the images are taken looking down on the sprawling metropolis that Preston has now become. The city has undergone several periods of significant change over the years and some of this can be seen in the following pictures. It is a fascinating snapshot of how the streets of Preston once looked and you can compare it in your minds eye to what is there now. READ MORE: Broadgate in pictures from the 80s. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Preston’s historic Flag Market over the years. MORE MEMORIES: Preston’s covered market in the heart of the city in the 90s and 00s
1. Preston from the sky
The railway line going north through Plungington and Cadley, as pictured from the top of St Walburge's church spire in 2004 Photo: John Hughes
2. Preston from the sky
St George's Shopping Centre and the Flag Market, pictured here in 1999 Photo: Iain Lynn
3. Preston from the sky
Preston railway station and the town centre sprawling around it - picture taken in 1997 Photo: Ian Robinson
4. Preston from the sky
Shrouded in fog and looking moody is Preston docks and the River Ribble. This image was taken from the top of St Walburge's church spire in 2004 Photo: John Hughes