The appearance of Watford is seemingly always changing but there are some reassuring constants dating back hundreds of years.

The Watford Observer is delighted to share pictures from the archive at Watford Museum and this week we recall a long lost view of St Mary’s church.

The museum’s volunteer archivist Christine Orchard said: “St Mary's church is one constant in the town where other sites are being redeveloped.

How the approach to the church once lookedHow the approach to the church once looked (Image: Watford Museum)

“This viewpoint, which is probably unfamiliar to many people, is of New Street. None of the buildings in the foreground exist anymore.

“Today, on the right, is the rear of Church car park which also covers the area of Ballards Buildings.

A modern-day view of New StreetA modern-day view of New Street (Image: Google Street View)

“The buildings to the left have gone too and now just the rear of the High Street shops can be seen.”

Visit the Museum Facebook page or website www.watfordmuseum.org.uk to see more historic photos.