The ancient market town of Romford has developed out of all recognition. Once a quiet country town which mainly came alive on market days it is now a busy shopping centre, with dozens of coffee shops and restaurants. In the 1930s South Street changed from a largely residential route into a shopping mecca known as the Golden Mile. This became thronged by potential buyers from all over the London region and going to Romford became almost a tourist trip. In the town many distinctive, local businesses were replaced by the big multiple outlet enterprises. Once occupied by back gardens and the rear of properties on the Market Place, Western Road and South Street, this became The Liberty mall development. In this book we revisit the old scenes such as the live Cattle Market, the Laurie Hall, and the Charity School, which made the former town an intriguing mix of ancient and modern.

Brian Evans has had a lifelong interest in local history and is a prolific author. He lives in Brentwood and is a life member of the Romford and District Historical Society.