THIS week we take a look at pictures of Harwood through the ages.

One of the more intriguing images among this collection shows a view of cottages in Longsight, photographed in 1958.

The picture was taken from the stage of the Methodist School, which was then being rebuilt.

The school had closed earlier the same year following a snap inspection by the county architect after the school’s headmaster had reported its dilapidated condition.

The 93 children were sent home and arrangements made for them to attend Eagley Primary School.

Another image depicts four women, all with gardens close to Harwood Church, Stitch-mi-Lane.

The accompanying caption reveals the interesting tale behind the photo.

The four women were, in fact, neighbours and decided to pull down the fences between their properties and demolish the privet hedges.

As a result, they were able to enjoy a large communal garden, sharing the upkeep between them.

They are pictured in June 1942, using their extended lawn as a putting green.

The communal garden also came in handy for growing more of their own food during wartime rationing.