Bustling market day views saved from skip

Over the years, many people ask me how I find and obtain the many photographic gems in my archive, and my answer is often ‘you wouldn’t believe me if I told you’!

More often than not, the pictures are donated to me. Today’s technology allows me to scan negatives and slides and also original pictures that the donor wishes to retain.

In the past, particularly in my younger days, I have been known to raid skips and rummage through basements and attics, and many of the very best images of old Ashford have been found that way.

About 17 years ago, I was lucky enough to find this week’s selection of photographs, unbelievably, in a skip.

Gem upon gem were retrieved and retained for future generations.

I rarely reveal my sources, but have no time for those who throw out such historical records of such an important period in the town’s history.

So, this week’s Remember When turns back the clock 76 years to 1937, and shows some splendid pictures of one of the town’s most celebrated venues – Ashford Market.

Although now relocated to Ashford’s outskirts, the livestock market still plays an important role in the life of the town.

Do you have 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

Please supply a return address for the return of originals.