The town’s textile industry, still a significant part of its identity, provided employment for many, with factories like Horrockses playing a central role in daily life. Streets bustled with workers, while families shopped in local markets and high street stores, often meeting for a chat at the town’s popular gathering spots.
Entertainment played a vital role in bringing people together. Cinemas like the Odeon and Palace were filled with locals eager to catch the latest films, while dance halls and pubs offered lively weekend fun. The iconic Preston Guild Hall, though yet to host the famous Guild celebrations, was already a key venue for community events and concerts.
Social life revolved around these cultural hubs, and despite the rationing that lingered post-war, the people of Preston embraced life with optimism and resilience. Families gathered in local parks, while children played in the streets or by the River Ribble, marking a time of simplicity, togetherness, and the early stirrings of modernity.
Explore our retro picture collection to get a glimpse of Preston’s vibrant life, people, and culture from this pivotal era.
21. Looking back This picture was sent in by Mr A Fazackerley from Penwortham,Preston it shows his sister Sheila Fazackerley (now Tyrer) who was a sunday school teacher at Barlow Street methodist.This was her class.I only know middle back row,Christine Mainwaring,front left Brenda Seefus and back right Kathleen Livesey i think it was 1950 or maybe a little earlier.
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22. Rev Ron May 21 - In 1949 a gallon of petrol cost just eleven pence in our money today, see pre-war advert, a promotional badge from an Esso Christmas party in 1951and a poster and on the fairground
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23. The Saddle Inn, Sidgreaves Lane, Lea Near Preston c.1950 Click Here for a recent 'street view' Copyright Lancashire County Library and Information Service. www.lantern.lancashire.gov.uk/
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24. Lill's Court, Preston 1949 View is from Back Lane looking south towards Friargate. The passage took it's name from John Lill who ran the Brittania Inn and owned premises on one side of the Court, (at the Friargate end) The mangle and roller works may refer to Roskell's (see related image) Copyright Lancashire County Library and Information Service. www.lantern.lancashire.gov.uk/
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