HIGH streets are a vital part of any town across the country and Southend is no exception.

In the past, Southend was often known for its large, busy and vibrant High Street.

Echo: Big names - Marks and Spencer in 1972Big names - Marks and Spencer in 1972 (Image: Newsquest)

However, in recent years, thousands of High Street shops around the country have closed their doors.

Southend has seen the loss of popular shops such as Keddie’s, Woolworths and Debenhams.

Echo: Iconic - Southend High Street buildings in 1978Iconic - Southend High Street buildings in 1978 (Image: Newsquest)

But there are also familiar brands, such as Primark and Marks and Spencer, which remain in Southend to the present day.

Echo: Early days - Southend High Street in 1881Early days - Southend High Street in 1881 (Image: Newsquest)

Also, there are a number of new businesses that are set to open in Southend High Street, including Wendy’s, Poundstretcher, and the British Heart Foundation.

Echo: Shopping - Still busy on a rainy day in 1992Shopping - Still busy on a rainy day in 1992 (Image: Newsquest)

However, it seems as though it was an incredibly long time ago when Southend High Street was bustling with shoppers.

The street scene may be familiar, but these pictures from the Echo archive show a selection of shops, many of which have long since disappeared.

Scroll down to see more High Street photos from our archive

Echo: Nightlife - Southend High Street in 1989Nightlife - Southend High Street in 1989 (Image: Newsquest)Echo: Crowds - A bustling High Street in 1979Crowds - A bustling High Street in 1979 (Image: Newsquest)

Echo: Wrapped up warm - Shopping in 1975Wrapped up warm - Shopping in 1975 (Image: Newsquest)

Echo: Traffic - Cars on the High Street in 1974Traffic - Cars on the High Street in 1974 (Image: Newsquest)