In a short space of time, Dereham has grown from a traditional Norfolk market town to one of the largest towns in Norfolk.

Eastern Daily Press: Dereham festival, 9 May 1976. Photo: Archant LibraryDereham festival, 9 May 1976. Photo: Archant Library

Located in the heart of the county, Dereham draws visitors from surrounding villages and further afield for its shopping, which includes two weekly markets.

The town centre has held on to its character and atmosphere. St Nicholas Church, with its separate bell tower, dominates the town centre, and Georgian buildings welcome visitors to the high street and the market place.

Shoppers who stray from the main streets are rewarded with plenty of interesting shops – this is, after all, very far from being a clone town.

In these pictures you will see shoppers, dancers, diners and golfers all enjoying Dereham's offerings over the years.

Eastern Daily Press: 'South West Norfolk for Europe' meeting in Dereham, 28 May 1975. Photo: Archant Library'South West Norfolk for Europe' meeting in Dereham, 28 May 1975. Photo: Archant Library (Image: Archant Library)

There's even one which shows voters, finding out more about the UK referendum on continued membership of the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1975, having originally joined in 1973.

Did you know?

Dereham can claim to be at the very centre of Norfolk. The actual spot, identified by people who know these things, is in a Tesco car park

Eastern Daily Press: Dereham Rotary dinner, 29 March 1974. Photo: Archant LibraryDereham Rotary dinner, 29 March 1974. Photo: Archant Library (Image: Archant Library)

Eastern Daily Press: Men enjoying a round of golf at Dereham Golf Club, 21 April 1979. Photo: Archant LibraryMen enjoying a round of golf at Dereham Golf Club, 21 April 1979. Photo: Archant Library

Eastern Daily Press: Dereham railway station, 1970. Photo: Archant LibraryDereham railway station, 1970. Photo: Archant Library (Image: Archant)

Eastern Daily Press: Dereham High Street, 1961. Photo: Archant LibraryDereham High Street, 1961. Photo: Archant Library (Image: Archant)

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