And such has been the case ever since the first shopping centres sprung onto the scene in the ‘70s, so here we take a look at a few of our best retro pictures of shops and shopping centres in Preston from the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s.
9. 1970s, 1980s, 1990s Preston Shops
Preston's oldest operatic society may have to pack up its greasepaint for good if its new production isn't a success. Membersof the 40-year-old Preston Gilbert and Sullivan Society are worried that they won't be able to raise the money for next year's production after their stock of costumes was destroyed. They present The Gondoliers in Preston and Lytham - some of the cast are pictured Photo: RETRO
10. 1970s, 1980s, 1990s Preston Shops
Children from Greenlands School, Ribbleton, delighted passersby when they went on a carol singing expedition to St George's Shopping precinct in Preston Photo: RETRO
11. 1970s, 1980s, 1990s Preston Shops
England soccer skipper Bryan Robson scored a big hit with his fans when he made an appearance in Preston to open his own shop - Birthdays - in St George's Shopping Centre. Photo: RETRO
12. 1970s, 1980s, 1990s Preston Shops
It was a case of being quick on the draw when Preston shoppers came face-to-face with a gang of coyboys in St George's Shopping Centre. The wild west showdown was part of Preston's first ever Country and Western Festival, organised by the Ribdale Western Club Photo: RETRO