IN the summer and autumn of 1992 shoppers flocked in their droves to visit the newly-opened Mill Gate Shopping Centre.

The retail complex had opened in the July, occupying a prime location, near to Bury Market and the Interchange; which was also being serviced by another newcomer to the town, the new Bury to Altrincham Metrolink line ­— unveiled by The Queen just two weeks earlier.

These photos, captured two months after the Mill Gate opened for business, feature crowds of people visiting shops many of us still enjoy patronising today, as well as those taking some well earned rest and relaxation time in the mall’s outdoor areas.

Sadly the images also feature stores lost from the town over time, including Thomas Cook, Littlewoods, and Granada. Others have been given a makeover such as Specsavers and New Look ­— seen in a later image from 2000.