THIS week's look back takes us to Davygate, which has become a chic hotspot of coffee dens and designer stores.

But these pictures hail from well before the time of Caffe Nero, Monsoon, and the Borders bookshop building.

The first, taken in 1903, looks down Davygate from St Sampson's Square. On the right is the edifice which will one day become Browns Department Store, and on the left, the buildings which will be replaced by Gap and Debenhams.

The second picture is even older, and looks towards St Sampson's Square. We see an even more historic building on the site of Browns.

The third goes "underneath the arches" to look at three thriving businesses in 1964, while the fourth, taken in 1969, shows Bettys tearooms on the right, and the site which will become Borders on the left.

The final picture shows the junction of Davygate and New Street, long before the arrival of the modern shopping row which now occupies the car park space on the right.

Copies of these pictures can be ordered from the Evening Press.

A print measuring 7x5 costs £5 with 50p postage and packing. A 10x7 costs £7 (50p p+p), or a 12x8 costs £10 (£1 p+p). Finally, a 16x10 costs £17, also with £1 p+p.

All sizes are approximate. Payment by cheque should be made to York & County Press then sent to Photographers, Evening Press, 76-86 Walmgate, York. YO1 9YN. Alternatively, call photosales on 01904 567135.

Updated: 11:27 Friday, April 26, 2002