Surprised by how town has changed

When you talk to members of the older generation, it’s always interesting to get a snapshot of the past. For somewhere that has altered as considerably as Ashford, one forgets how things used to be and can often be shocked by images of days gone by. Often we forget many of the town’s identifying characteristics such as shops, buildings and local landmarks and the way authorities up and down the country continue to toss our important and worthy heritage aside, soon there will not be anything left of significance. As a historian, one is often dismayed that lessons have still not been learnt. Luckily, one part of our town’s heritage that we all hope will never be destroyed is the historical Lower High Street where the market originated, as depicted in the locally famous painting by artist George Shepherd. This week, Remember When, ventures back to 1980 for three views of the Lower High Street that many readers will remember well.

Have you got any pictures, negatives or colour slides, in particular from the past 100 years, that you would be willing to share with readers? If so, please send them with brief details, to Steve Salter, Kentish Express Remember When, 34-36 North Street, Ashford, Kent TN24 8JR, or by email to, rememberwhen_ kmash@hotmail.co.uk . You can even send me a Tweet on Twitter @SteveKMAshford. Please supply a return address for the return of any originals.