The year saw significant developments that reflected the changing face of the town.
The historic heart of Preston, with its bustling markets and iconic landmarks like the Harris Museum and Art Gallery, remained a focal point of daily life, while new retail developments began to reshape the landscape, offering more shopping and entertainment options for residents.
Education and infrastructure were also on the rise, with the University of Central Lancashire expanding its influence, attracting more students and contributing to the town’s growing reputation as an educational hub. The vibrant student population added to the lively atmosphere in the town, particularly around the university quarter.
1998 was also a year marked by community spirit, with local events and festivals bringing people together. Avenham and Miller Parks provided green spaces for relaxation and social gatherings, while Deepdale Stadium continued to be a source of pride for football fans, with Preston North End enjoying strong local support.
In the following collection, we revisit Preston in 1998 through a series of archive images, capturing the essence of the town during this dynamic period.
13. Preston in 1998
A man who suffered a massive heart attack when he was just 38 is getting on his bike to raise cash for the charity that has helped him back to fitness. Eddie De-Wilde, of Preston Old Road, Clifton, near Preston, is gearing up for a 140 mile cycle from Blackpool to Scarborough to boost the funds of Heartbeat Photo: RETRO
14. Preston in 1998
Many Lancashire companies are already on board the Evening Posts Get Healthy train and one which is jetting ahead is British Aerospace. The defence giant has installed a new health screening computer system for its employees at its plant in Warton, near Preston. Pictured above is Sister Pauline Rae with a patient Photo: RETRO
15. Preston in 1998
Preston College student Caroline Mason, studying level 2 hairdressing and beauty therapy, gives a make over to a visitor to the International Womens Day exhibition at the Guild Hall, Preston, watched by vocational access beauty therapy tutor Donna McGovern Photo: DAVID HURST
16. Preston in 1998
Lincoln City V Preston North End David Eyres celebrates Preston's first goal. Photo: Iain Lynn