The most enjoyable by far of my various shooting assignments for the 'Within Walking Distance' project is a research trip down Langley High Street.
Outside it's a cold, grey and drizzly day, but we receive such a wonderful warm welcome from the High Street shop-keepers. They are all too happy to share their experiences of working in the heart of the community.
A prime example is 'Elaine's', a discount store packed to the gunnels with an amazing selection of, well, pretty much everything! Just a little further along is a neatly-stacked, independent pharmacy, the marvelous 'Card 'n' Gift Box' run by a lively young lady determined to keep the community spirit alive and further down still, Premier Cars, a busy local taxi-firm.
Unlike so much of contemporary Britain, Langley High Street remains a vibrant hub within the community it serves.
