It was the year Margaret Thatcher swept back to power and Michael Jackson moonwalked into pop history, the pound coin made its debut as did Superman III. But what was happening closer to home? From royal visits and spaghetti-eating contests to forgotten landmarks and familiar faces, our archive photographs turn the clock back to Preston in 1983
But what was happening closer to home? This was Preston in 1981...
17. A trunkful of cheer
A rather special toy elephant brings a touch of fun to the children's ward at Royal Preston Hospital in April 1983. A delightful reminder of the little gestures that can make a big difference to young patients | Contributed
18. The purr-fect passenger
Every ship needs a cat! A Manx cat is welcomed aboard the former Isle of Man ferry Manxman at Preston Dock in 1983. The vessel had arrived the previous October, beginning a new life as a floating leisure attraction | Contributed
19. Pressing memories
A faithful old servant of both the Preston Guardian and the Lancashire Evening Post, this Albion hand printing press dated from 1875. It was photographed at the newspapers’ Fishergate offices following restoration and repainting. Its working life ended in 1981, after more than a century of service, with the introduction of new printing technology. Pictured admiring this link with the past are Elaine Byrnes and Michael Prescott | Contributed
20. A royal welcome
Diana, Princess of Wales, during her visit to officially open Royal Preston Hospital on June 1, 1983. The young princess attracted huge attention, making it one of the town's most memorable occasions of the year | Contributed