Watford Co-op store opening in Gade House in High Street

These pictures from the Watford Observer archive were taken by our photographer during several visits to Gade House, in High Street, at the start of 1965, culminating in the mayor opening a new branch of the Co-op on January 28.

The Watford Observer’s report of the event read: “Standing on what was once the site of the old borough council offices, the Mayor of Watford, Alderman Arthur Reynolds, cut a ribbon yesterday morning and officially opened Gade House.

The mayor welcomes shoppers to the new store (Image: Watford Observer)

“Immediately waiting crowds surged through the swing doors and within a matter of minutes Watford’s latest and most luxurious department store was in business.

The exterior of Gade House in January 1965 (Image: Watford Observer)

“The opening of Watford and Harrow Co-Operative Society’s magnificent all-purpose premises was, as its President Mr E. Stafford said: “A red letter day for the society.”

Getting to grips with a lawnmower (Image: Watford Observer)

“He also felt it was a red letter day for the people of the borough and he hoped citizens would be as proud of it as were the members and officials of the society.”

Customers at the checkouts in the new store (Image: Watford Observer)

The mayor visiting the knitwear department (Image: Watford Observer)

Some of the staff in the new store (Image: Watford Observer)

The packed shelves in the new store (Image: Watford Observer)

A pair of shoes that needed new heels? (Image: Watford Observer)