With coronavirus and lockdown putting an end to large gatherings for the foreseeable future, we have delved into the BFP archives to bring you these pictures of when crowds gathered in their hordes and social distancing was unheard of.

Matalan opening

Bucks Free Press:

Hundreds of eager shoppers flocked to the opening of the new Matalan store in 2010.

About 200 people queued for up to an hour outside the Bellfield Road store before celebrity interior designer Linda Barker, chef James Tanner and then-High Wycombe mayor Jane White cut the red ribbon at 10am to cheers and applause.

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The flagship shop was the first ‘concept’ store of its kind to have been opened by the retail giant.

David Walliams River Thames swim

Bucks Free Press:

Comedian David Walliams was cheered by Marlovians on his epic swim of the River Thames for Sports Relief.

Hundreds had lined the river in Marlow in 2011 as he completed the fifth day of his journey to Big Ben.

He was met by TV stars Timothy Spall and Miranda Hart at Cookham Lock, and Olympic legend Sir Steve Redgrave at Bisham.

Olympic Torch relay

Bucks Free Press:

Thousands of thrilled onlookers flocked to Bisham in July 2012 to witness the landmark moment when the Olympic Torch came through the village.

Sam Shepherd, from Cookham, who was carrying the torch out of Bisham Abbey Sports Centre, was mobbed by school pupils as he took centre stage in the celebrations.

Huge groups of enthusiastic flag-waving villagers welcomed the relay.

Marlow Remembrance Sunday

Bucks Free Press:

A record number of people packed into Marlow High Street for the 2014 Remembrance Sunday commemorations, with organisers estimating around 6,000 residents paid their respects.

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As well as numbers swelling for the parade itself, Marlovians came out in force to show their support during a morning of tributes in this World War One centenary year.

The High Street was swamped as it was closed to traffic for the sea of military personnel and town groups parading in memory of fallen comrades and loved ones.

Mayor making ceremony

Bucks Free Press:

Crowds of people flock to High Wycombe town centre every year as the new mayor is “weighed in” as part of an ancient tradition.

The incoming mayor takes the chains at the mayor making ceremony and, in a tradition that is unique to High Wycombe, residents get to see if politicians and dignitaries have been overindulging during their time in office, as they take a seat on the scales in front of the crowds.

Can you spot yourself these crowds or were you there on the day? Let us know via the form below.

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