For it wasn't that long ago that Sheffield saw itself as the shopping capital of the north.

Remember Pauldens, Walshs, Cockaynes and Schofields? The city centre was especially noted for its department stores, not forgetting Atkinsons which continues to fly the flag on The Moor.

Then there was the wonder of toy shop Redgates and quirky fashion shops such as Sexy Rexy.

Memories are stirred with the publication of The Shopaholics Guide to 1970s Sheffield.

Writer Neil Anderson says: "The mere thought of Meadowhall in the seventies would have been laughed off the high street. It wouldn't have stood a chance.

"Sheffield city centre offered a shopping experience like nowhere else in the land. People would travel from right around the region – often right across the country – to sample it. It offered every conceivable type of shop – from resplendent department stores like Pauldens, Cockaynes and Redgates toy shop to Christmas illuminations to rival Blackpool. Sheffield rightly crowned itself the shopping centre of the north."

Nicholas Atkinson, managing director of Sheffield's longest running family owned stores, says: "Sheffield in the seventies was a such a fantastic and buzzing place. I remember we had our 'In Gear' boutique in Atkinsons, imported Afghan coats from Kabul and they used to stink!

"I'm looking forward to the buzz starting to return to The Moor with arrival of the new markets building, new retailers and all the work going on to improve the environment."

The book will be launched at The Star Shop in York Street, on Wednesday. Neil Anderson will be signing copies from 11am to 2pm.


BUY ONLINE: The Sheffield Telegraph and Property Guide are now out every Thursday. To sign up on line click here.



MORE:
Local News
Local Sport
Arts Guide
Community News
Listings Guide
Restaurant Guide
Letters