Life in Preston at the turn of the millennium was vibrant, with the local community deeply rooted in tradition while embracing new opportunities. The town's economy was supported by its retail sector, with Fishergate and the newly developed shopping centres becoming popular destinations for shoppers.
People in Preston enjoyed a strong sense of community, with local events, markets, and festivals bringing residents together. Preston’s sporting scene remained at the heart of its culture, with Preston North End FC being a source of pride for football fans.
The club was gearing up for its return to Division One after winning promotion in 2000, filling the city with excitement and anticipation.
Culturally, Preston saw a blend of tradition and modernity. Local music, theatre, and arts flourished, while the town's historical landmarks, like Avenham Park, continued to be popular spots for relaxation and social gatherings. As the year 2000 arrived, Preston’s mix of history, sport, and evolving culture painted a picture of a town ready for the 21st century.
Here’s a collection of archive images capturing life in Preston during 1999 and 2000.
5. Oh what a lovely war... at least, for this team of crack troops. Paintballing is now an established sport which sees two teams take each other on in a variety of landscapes, trying to wipe out the enemy with powerful paint-pellet firing guns. John Jones, Stuart Rimmer, Michelle Jones and Stuart Crichton make up Lancashire's The Dye Hard squad who won the No Battlepack Winter Series national competion
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6. Tots and mums taking part in a Splashathon event at West View Leisure Centre, Ribbleton, Preston. The event was held to raise money for Tommy's Campaign, the national pregnancy health campaign.
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7. Pupils at at Preston school made a bid for stardom by performing to packed audiences with a production of the hit musical Godspell. All of the three shows performed by a cast of budding actors at Archbishop Temple School, Fulwood, were sell-outs
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8. Children at St Gregory's RC Primary School in Preston with their puppets
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