In both Preston and the wider country, it was an era defined by technological advances, political change, sporting excellence, excitement, and a general mood of renewal coupled with a new forward-looking government.
From Tony Blair to David Beckham, it was a time when new national figureheads emerged, while life in Preston was all about schools moving into the era of the computer, of PNE languishing in the third tier, and of excitement for the new Millennium.
We’ve put together a collection of the most striking archive images from our archive dating back to the late 1990s - from schools and pubs to politics and football, it offers a glimpse of Preston life back in those heady days some 25 years in the past at this stage.
These pictures will have you thinking ‘I can’t believe it’s been so long’, so take a look and see if you recognise any familiar sights or faces...
Still in the mood for a bit more nostalgia? Check out some of our other recent retro pieces...
60 retro pics of party people and nights out at infamous Preston nightclub Tokyo Jo's down the decades
From Tony Blair to David Beckham, it was a time when new national figureheads emerged, while life in Preston was all about schools moving into the era of the computer, of PNE languishing in the third tier, and of excitement for the new Millennium.
25. Preston cub scouts are feeling as pleased as punch after receiving a message from John Major. The Prime Minister was just one of eighty politicians who signed a birthday card for the 1st Lostock Hall Phoenix Cubs, who are this year celebrating the 80th anniversary of cub scouting
National World
26. Preston's new style music festival started off on a high note. Hundreds of balloons were released on the town's Flag Market to mark the opening of PrestFest. At the launch three local bands - TCR, Tripitaka and Blue - and singer-songwriter Dave Gardener performed. That follwed the opening speech by Frank Sanderson, vice-chairman of the festival organisers Propeller Promotions. Local musicians who have been a part of Preston's music scene for the past 40 years were invited to attend
National World