Peter Francis almost became our village photographer by accident – or perhaps that should say by illness. He had been destined to be a part of the family butchery business but ill health found him unable to continue at that job. He fell back on his hobby, as a way of making a living and became a professional and very well respected photographer.
He and his wife, Bessie, had premises on Church Street. They had a retail shop, studio and dark room facilities. They lived in the flat above the shop.
Here is the building as many folks will remember it.
Peter Francis’ shop on Church Street in Market Lavington
The building is still there, of course, but now has only a residential function.
The windows display items for sale but also serve as a showcase for the work done by Peter and Bessie.
One of the shop windows features wedding photos
This one looks to feature recent wedding photos. Weddings were always good money spinners for photographers.
We can also spot a slide projector which reminds us of just how much photography has changed in the last twenty years.
Tags: 1970s, photographer, Shop
Market Lavington Museum 
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