2:24pm Thursday 6th September 2007
By Gordon Simpson
Photographs taken over the last century have provided a fascinating glimpse into the past of Malmesbury High Street.
One of the biggest changes has taken place in the lower High Street.
About 100 years ago, the lower part was filled with shops. But now houses have replaced them and the retail market has moved to the upper and middle sections.
Nevertheless, historian Graham Allnatt, who has put together an exhibition at the Athelstan Museum, said the most interesting thing is the way the High Street has kept much the same structure.
"The continuity of shops is fascinating," said Mr Allnatt. "Although some have gone and changed, many have carried on selling similar products for almost a century.
"It is interesting how people cling to shops with certain purposes. The movement of shops within the town is fascinating, as they look for new premises and move to different sides of the road.
"I still look at the High Street and think it has kept its charm, despite the fact the shops have changed around and about.
It has kept its pleasantness and, for me, it hasn't really changed all that much."
Two petrol stations used to serve the town centre and evidence of one is still at and around Hyam's Autos.
Charles White's cycle shop and Knee's department store are examples of some of the High Street's most long-standing shops.
The exhibition also unearthed a number of old invoices from various stores but, interestingly, Mr Allnatt said there are very few photos of the High Street during the war and the 1970s.
The exhibition has proved extremely popular. "We have been very pleased with the response," said Mr Allnatt.
"I am trying to build up as many memories people have as possible."
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