The cost-of-living crisis and the rising cost of energy have led to a string of shop closures across Bristol so far this year - but shops shutting down is nothing new, as this collection of old photographs shows.
Most are from the Hartley collection of photographs, which were taken by commercial photographers Veale & Co in the 1930s and 40s before being recovered by Ian Hartley who sold them to Bristol Museum in 2003.
The images show all kinds of shops, from car dealerships to florists to bike shops, and present a picture of our ever-changing High Streets. Know anything more about any of these pictures, or have we got something wrong? Email [email protected]
Two men in a motorcycle and sidecar are pictured outside of the entrance to the shop. The picture is from 1919. The shop is now a tattoo parlour, although there is a bike shop today at 12 Sandy Park Road.
6. C Allen and Son, Whiteladies Road
Staff line up outside the car dealer, where Alvis, Singer, Standard and Triumph vehicles could be purchased. The firm also had premises in Gloucester Road and Berkeley Square. It dissolved in 1979.
7. Milk Bar, Blackboy Hill
Unfortunately, we can’t find any information about the history of this milk bar. The shop appears quiet in this picture, where milk shakes, hot soups and sandwiches are advertised. Do you know anything about this store? Email [email protected]
8. Fred Morgan’s furniture shop, Broadmead
You won’t miss Fred Morgan! Staff stand outside the shop covered with lettering advertising the business. The shop would make way for development in Broadmead with the Galleries to be built opposite it.
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