‘For Sale’ or ‘To Let’ signs have become a regular feature on our high streets as economic pressures continue to take their toll on retailers – but they were also a common sight 40 years ago.

These pictures were taken by Watford Observer photographers during two visits to Rickmansworth High Street in June and November 1984 and they show several vacant premises, as well as some well-known shop names many readers will recall.

During their visits, they also captured some images of Penn Place and the former Tesco store, as well as travelling out of the town centre to photograph some of the shops and businesses in Moneyhill Parade.

Watford Observer: H Gibson chemist and Robert Harris jewellers stood opposite Sketchley's and Lloyds BankH Gibson chemist and Robert Harris jewellers stood opposite Sketchley's and Lloyds Bank (Image: Watford Observer)

Take a look through these images from our archive and see how many of the shops and businesses you recognise.

Watford Observer: Another view of this part of the High StreetAnother view of this part of the High Street (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: These three women are looking for a bargainThese three women are looking for a bargain (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: While some premises were seeking new occupiers, the sign on the right shows that Bejam was expandingWhile some premises were seeking new occupiers, the sign on the right shows that Bejam was expanding (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: The former Tesco supermarket in Penn PlaceThe former Tesco supermarket in Penn Place (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: The sign for The Artists Retreat obscures Strawberry Fields record shopThe sign for The Artists Retreat obscures Strawberry Fields record shop (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: Garden furniture was for sale at one of the shops by a bus stop in Moneyhill ParadeGarden furniture was for sale at one of the shops by a bus stop in Moneyhill Parade (Image: Watford Observer)