Do you recognise the house in this photograph?

It was framed by Jack Clarke, the founder of the Clark’s toy and gift shops that are still on Brecon’s High Street today, and its present owner is hoping the photograph could be returned to the home where it was taken.

It has been in Brian Cottam’s possession for at least the last 20 to 30 years and he believes he bought it locally but doesn’t know anything of its history apart from a clue on the picture mount.

But Brian said following a recent move he no longer has room for the framed photograph but is willing to pass it to the present occupants of the house.

However he doesn’t know where that is but assumes it is local to Brecon and believes the photograph to be of interest to anyone keen on social history.

“We have just moved house and now have no room for the photo which we have had for many years, it speaks volumes socially. I wonder if the house still stands,” said Brian.

“The posed photo has on the mount the name of the framer ‘J Clark of 13 High St Brecon’, the business still exists and has ‘established 1907’ above the door.

“The couple are sitting on a motorised bicycle and sidecar. Singer were making something very similar in 1911. So we seem to be firmly Edwardian.

“Obviously it was sufficiently important to warrant the cost of the photographer, perhaps showing off the new vehicle and including the maid all smartly dressed? Presumable without children, unless away at school, and prosperous enough to afford a comfortable lifestyle. Perhaps the first of the newfangled contraptions locally?

“Notably it was only going to be a short time before the Great War when everything would change forever. I imagine he was called up, whether he survived, who knows.

“Hopefully, someone in the Brecon area will recognise the house and possibly identify the proud couple. We would love to think we could reunite the photo with its origins.”

Anyone who may be able to help Brian can contact him on [email protected]