TODAY this is the site of one of the busiest junctions in Blackburn but back in 1890 when this photograph was taken things were a little more sedate.

The turnpike house was situated on Preston New Road and stood at what is now the junction with Barbara Castle Way.

Turnpikes were a familiar site in those days - in effect toll houses where carts had to pay to use the road ahead.

The building were designed with a protruding front section which allowed the toll collector a clear view of the road in both directions to see who might be approaching.

The toll board can be see inset above the front door outlining the various charges to pass through.

The trustees of the property would hold an annual auction with the successful bidder becoming responsible for running the toll house. It was something of a gamble as the successful bidder would have to guarantee to pay for the privilege and then generate sufficient funds to cover their costs and, hopefully, make a profit.

The picture was taken on the last days of tolls being levied on Preston New Road.