19th century riddle to solve

THIS fabulous photograph was unearthed among the treasures at Kernaghan’s Books in Lord Street’s Wayfarers Arcade.
But no clues remain, other than a note on the reverse confirming it was taken in Southport.
Certainly the gentleman featured must have been rubbing shoulders with the great and good among his contemporaries, judging by his rather grand carriage and sturdy horse.
But was he just a driver, or a distinguished member of polite society?
It appears to have been taken at some point in the nineteenth century, and the houses in the background glow with a well-kept newness.
The saplings that brighten the gardens may well be among our oldest trees today.
But where is it, and what does it look like now?
Call 01704-398225 if you have an inkling, alternatively email or write to the usual Southport Visiter address. And if you have any quirky, unusual or just plain baffling photographs you’d like investigating in Pic From The Past, get in touch!