This is a super early 1930's postcard view of the High Street looking south from a position just north of the junction with Heathfield Road and York Road.
Lots of activity here with shoppers, a few parked bikes and very few cars. Even the dog on the right-hand side can take its time to regain the pavement from the roadway ! On the left (east side) we can see part the grand building which was called "The Mart" by the architect, although to my knowledge it was never known by that name. Halfords, and nearer to the corner with Heathfield Road, Foster Brothers are two of the seven shops which comprised this building.
In the distance we can see the school on the corner of Institute Road and at this time the tower still has its spire.
Brian