The early '80s saw the town experiencing both the challenges and opportunities that came with economic shifts. As traditional industries like textiles and engineering faced decline, new sectors began to emerge, gradually transforming the local economy.
Preston's market scene remained a hub of activity, with the iconic covered market attracting shoppers from across the region. High street stores such as Debenhams and Woolworths were busy, while Fishergate was the focal point for retail therapy and social gatherings. Sign up for our free newsletters now
Preston North End fans continued to flock to Deepdale Stadium, with football providing a shared sense of pride and excitement for the local community. The Harris Museum and Art Gallery, with its grand neoclassical architecture, stood as a cultural beacon, hosting exhibitions and events that drew both locals and visitors. Get the latest headlines, straight to your inbox, with The LP’s free emails
1983 was also a time of change in education, with many local schools adapting to new curriculums and expanding their facilities. The social scene was thriving too, with local pubs, clubs, and events offering entertainment to all ages. Get a bespoke headline round-up, as well as breaking updates, when you sign up to the The Lancashire Post’s free emails
Now, step back in time and enjoy a fascinating collection of retro images capturing life in Preston during 1983. Follow the latest from Preston North End, with the LP’s free football emails
Still fancy some more retro nostalgia? Be sure not to miss some of our recent popular picture galleries...
5. 1983 Preston
Nov 27th 1983: PNE vs Watford February 1981 Preston and Watford tussle for the ball on the edge of the box The game ended with a 2-1 win to Preston Photo: RETRO
6. 1983 Preston
Barmaid Hilary Calvin took to her bed at the weekend... but the big lie-in was all in a good cause. The 19-year-old from Queensway, Ashton, Preston, was taking part in a sponsored bed push to raise money for the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital Cancer Research Fund. Joining her were customers and staff from the Pig and Whistle pub on Blackpool Road, Lea. The group, many in fancy dress, dragged two beds from Preston's Flag Market back to the Pig and Whistle... calling off at other hostelries on the route Photo: RETRO
7. 1983 Preston
Every baby is a handful - any mum will vouch for that. But Angela Todd has more problems than most to cope with, for she has 33 tiny tots to take care of. Mrs Todd, of Miller Road, Preston, runs a newly formed mums and toddlers club at the Geoffrey Street Health Centre, off New Hall Lane Photo: RETRO
8. 1983 Preston
The oriental art of self defence has fought its way into Hutton village, near Preston. Over 40 people of all ages thronged a Hutton Grammar School classroom to watch a display of the ancient martial art, karate. Pictured above Colin Listel and Michael Johnstone, of Leyland Karate Club, giving a demonstration at the opening of Hutton club Photo: RETRO