READERS have shared their favourite childhood memories of the town.

From roller skating in the town centre to catching tadpoles in Old Basing, the memories showcase the diverse experiences of growing up in the area.

Frances Livett remembers the Saturday pictures at the Waldorf, where birthday goers got a free ticket for the following week's showing.

Meanwhile, Jan E Gardner fondly recalls playing all day and catching tadpoles in Old Basing in the 1940s.

READ MORE: Readers share the pub they miss the most in Basingstoke

Craig Bulpitt reminisces about a Sunday morning ritual with his dad and brother at the motocross roundabout.

Nicky Bradley enjoyed the Colt's Discos at the Rugby Club and Barn Dances at Kempshott Village Hall.

Selina Amy Dyos remembers family picnics and Easter egg hunts in Lime Pits.

Similarly, Lucy Blake enjoyed the Lime Pits as a child and continues to take her own children there.

While Sue Elliott couldn't resist rollerskating through town and spending her pound at the Wimpy instead of going to the sports hall.

Open-air swimming was a favourite for Jane Crossman, who also recalls the milk bar in Church Street.

Shellie Brown loved Eastrop as a child, but as a teen, enjoyed the ice rink.

Charlie Chalks and Pirate Pete's were top picks for Sophie Elizabeth Sprules, while Wendy Hogg enjoyed the coaching and swimming lessons at the sports centre with her children.

June Bond fondly recalls Thornycroft's Park on Sunday afternoons with her family, always with a bag of crisps and a lemonade.

For Rachel Nelson, the ABC cinema on a Saturday was a must-visit for the matinee.

Gavin Roberts frequented the Winklebury boys club on a Friday, while Paul Spreadbury couldn't resist a cone of ice cream from Nicolsons.

SEE ALSO: These are the best places to get ice cream in Basingstoke, according to YOU

Gina Mills' favourite spot was the open-air swimming pool, while Kev Miller loved watching football matches at the Camrose football ground.

Dani Nye misses the old markets and carnival that used to go through town.

Meanwhile, Louise Vale enjoyed Saturday mornings at the ice skating disco and eating burgers at the restaurant overlooking the rink, as well as browsing C&A and Our Price.

Patricia McKinney misses everything about the old town, including the War Memorial Park with its roller skating area, paddling pool, swings, slide, and roundabouts, as well as its grass tennis courts, hard courts, and bowling green.

The Aviary and bandstand also hold special memories for her.

Heather Hutchinson has fond memories of Carnival week and the procession on a Thursday, while Lloyd Grassi remembers going to Cross Street stores to buy toy soldiers.

Ian Simpson enjoyed time spent at the Buckskin Boys Club, while MaryAnn Webb loved browsing at Knights record shop.

Where was your favourite place to go in Basingstoke as a child? Let us know in the comments or join the discussion on Facebook.