Guisborough, Westgate c.1965

Photo ref: G66067

More about this scene

More cars on the cobbles are noticeable now. The impressive edifice of the Midland Bank, number 12 Westgate, is second from the left. Built in the late 18th century as the residence of Dr Bird, the house, like Sunnyfield House, had grounds stretching back to the North Bank Lane, now known as Bolckow Street/Park Lane (it was on this land that Mr Tom Pallister, the baker and confectioner, built his Teacake Villa in 1924, the house where the author was born in the year of this photograph). Dr Bird's house became a bank in the late 19th century, and the mock Georgian façade was added in 1919 to promote an image of security and trust. The first and second floors provided a manager's residence for many years, which enjoyed a walled garden to the rear. Next to the bank is Boothroyd's TV and radio shop, and next door but one is the Orange Café, the venue of many a wedding reception, coming of age party and funeral tea in the town.