The Mall Wood Green is asking local residents to share their stories of the shopping centre as it turns 40 this month, with plans to celebrate four decades of retail history.

1981 was extraordinary year for Britain. Charles and Diana’s engagement and wedding took place, a British team led by Ranulph Fiennes became the fastest to cross Antarctica, Bucks Fizz won the Eurovision Song Contest, Only Fools and Horses premiered on BBC One, the first London Marathon took place and The Mall Wood Green opened.

The brand-new Wood Green Shopping City, as it was originally called, was officially opened by HRH Queen Elizabeth II on 13 May 1981 and has since become a huge part of the community, hosting events, supporting charities and providing a safe space for local residents.

“After a really difficult year, we finally have something wonderful to shout about,” explains Catriona Baillie, The Mall Wood Green’s Marketing Manager. “Forty years is a huge achievement, and we want to celebrate our unique history with the people who matter most – our local community. We’d love to hear from guests who remember the centre opening in 1981. I’m sure our local residents will have some very special memories of the centre from the last 40 years, and it would be wonderful to hear their stories and see their photos.”

Plans are currently underway for the big anniversary with activities and giveaways running throughout May. The Mall is also going to be revealing some of its best bits from the last four decades and talking to some of its long-standing retailers.

Send your stories and photos to The Mall by emailing [email protected].

The best stories and photos will be shared on the Mall Wood Green’s social channels during May, as part of a whole month of anniversary celebrations.