DARWEN'S old open-air market place is captured in this image from the past.

The town's three-day market went 'indoors' when a new covered complex opened on the square in 1974.

It replaced the open-sided wooden-roofed structure under which traders later gathered when they abandoned their more flimsy stalls, some of which are seen without their canvas awnings in this turn-of-the-century view which also features a swinging-boat amusement ride.

The Market Hall at the right was built in 1881-82 and also housed the town's municipal offices.

The clock in its tower was added in 1900 - a £150 gift of Dr James Todd Ballantyne, as a memento of his year as mayor.

Perhaps you have a tale to tell about the open-air market place.

If so we’d love to hear from you.

Share your memories with ben.butler@nqnw.co.uk.