DO YOU remember when Christmas in Glasgow looked like this?

Our photographers, past and present, have captured the city in all its festive glory on many occasions, such as these great images of Buchanan Street and Sauchiehall Street in the 50s and 60s.

(Traffic was still allowed on Buchanan Street in those days.)

Glasgow Times:

The city has always excelled itself when it comes to dazzling displays, although back in 1962, the Evening Times was reporting consternation over plans to cut the amount of time they were on each day “if electricity load-shedding becomes necessary this winter.”

Our article on December 4 read: “The South of Scotland Electricity Board has asked the Corporation not to switch the lights on until 6.30pm [instead of 4pm or earlier on darker days] if the situation arises…The board made the request because it fears a sudden cold spell may cause overloading.”

This did not go down too well with the people of Glasgow. The then Lord Provost Jean Roberts had described the city’s illuminations as ‘the best in Great Britain’ when she officially turned them on.

“The Christmas lights in Glasgow this year are the most comprehensive yet,” she said. “The decorations... paid for by the traders, cost £20,000….They have already proved a great attraction and greatly stimulated business in the shops.”

The 60s and 70s were also the heyday for Glasgow's grand department stores - who recalls Pettigrew & Stephen's, Treron's, Lewis's and Wylie Hills?

Glasgow Times:

This shot from 1962 shows Christmas shoppers at the latter, looking for last minute bargains.

Some Times Past readers may also recall George Square when it looked like this in our photo from the 50s, with a dusting of snow adding that Christmassy sparkle.

Get in touch if these pictures spark memories for you this Christmas. Email ann.fotheringham@glasgowtimes.co.uk or write to Ann Fotheringham, 125 Fullarton Drive, Glasgow G32 8FG.