Preston in the 1960s

Ten Years that Changed a City

Throughout the 1960s, there was a feeling of prosperity and progress in Preston. A Lancashire town throwing off the shackles of the cotton trade, it took other industrial and commercial challenges on board. Better roads and transport, improved housing and revolutionised shopping outlets all reflected the feeling of progress. The poverty of Preston seemed to be in decline, and the churches were helping to shape a brighter future with spiritual and practical help. In many ways, Preston mirrored national trends and teenagers began to play their part with music and leisure pursuits for pleasure. Yes, there were still crimes, criminals, tragedy and trauma, yet among it all there was triumph, be it socially or in the sporting arenas – enough to ensure the pride was still in Preston. A decade that appeared to begin in black and white was to end in glorious technicolour – or so it seems on reflection.