Farnham town centre is once again twinkling under tens of thousands of fairy lights after the Christmas lights switch-on. But as this lovely photo from 50 years earlier proves, Farnham’s festivities are nothing new.

Mark Westcott, who shared the image with Peeps, believes it was taken in South Street around Christmas 1971. The nostalgic image captures a bustling street alive with activity, much like today, but in a world remarkably different in its details.

On the left, the Royal Deer public house stands proudly, with a line of unique shops stretching towards the cattle market where Sainsbury's and the adjoining car park now stand.

Familiar names from the time included Wilcox Outfitters, G.E. Day Antiques, Hibberd Photographic, and Miss Tigwell’s toy shop – a treasure trove for young Christmas shoppers of the day.

Nearby, Jack Goolding’s barber shop would have been a hub for the gentlemen of Farnham to spruce up for the season.

Fairy lights can be seen strung across the street, adding a touch of festivity, just as they did during this year’s celebrations.

By 1971 Sainsburys were in operation in their new Woolmead store and a satisfied customer can be seen pushing her empty trolley across the road having unloaded her groceries in her car, possibly parked in Castle Street or the Central car park.

The right hand (west) side of the street has changed less with only the far set of high gables now replaced by the Wey Court office block. Symonds estate agents can be seen to the right of the pedestrian crossing.

An Aldershot & District Traction Company bus is just about to cross the by-pass at Hickley‘s Corner and central in the distant view are the houses of Ashley Terrace, later swept away in another round of road widening at this busy A31 road junction.