A SPECTACULAR tree, which would nowadays have been given very short shrift indeed, dominates this view along North Street at the turn of the nineteenth century, when the road had been widened but not yet converted for full traffic use.

The building on the far left was Keighley’s original Mechanics' Institute, built in 1834 to provide lectures, classes and a library. This was replaced in 1870 by much grander accommodation, and subsequently housed the Yorkshire Penny Bank.

On its right is the former County Court of 1831 which – although empty for some years – remains the only survivor of pre-Victorian North Street. Beyond, with window-blinds unfurled against the sun, are the handsome premises of Keighley's golden age, notably Court Buildings of 1894 and Burlington Buildings of 1891.

The photograph has been supplied by Mr Kevin Seaton, of Shann Lane, Keighley.