THE Now and Then picture shows Westgate Square in Commercial Street.

There are no tram lines or tram wires visible nor any motor vehicles. It’s difficult to tell whether the picture was taken before the trams started being used in Newport in the early 1900s or after they finished in 1937.

It is unclear by the clothing, but possibly the lack of motor vehicles suggests the early date.

On the right in both pictures is the Westgate Hotel, central in the Then picture is the town hall – what a pity it was demolished. Little else has changed. Perhaps someone can explain why older pictures show buildings in their true shape but in newer pictures they appear to be leaning over?

Brian J J Jelf, Newport

The Now and Then picture is of the bottom of High Street at the junction with Commercial Street. In the picture, you can see the old town hall clock.

At the back of that building was a police station. Also nearby was Marks and Spencer which has now moved to the Spytty Retail Park. Opposite is Wildings, which has stayed in the city centre. There used to be a C&A store but that has now become an Iceland store There was also a Direct Sports shop which has now also closed.

In the picture. on the right hand side you can see the Westgate Hotel and opposite, on the corner, Barclays Bank. Further down from this there used to be Alexander’s men’s department store. There used to be a gas showroom at the bottom of Stow Hill – I think that is now a betting shop.

Mrs M Reardon, Newport