The Isle of Wight County Press has been bringing the news to Islanders since 1884. We've delved into the archives to find out what was happening in days gone by.
125 Years Ago
October 26, 1901
A special meeting of the county council shelved plans to build a free library, technical institute and county offices in Newport.
A grand concert by Madame Blanche Marchesi and party took place in Ryde Town Hall, with Princess Ena of Battenberg and one of her brothers among the audience.
100 Years Ago
October 23, 1926
Island households and businesses were feeling the effects of the national miners' strike. The coal shortage was leaving people unable to heat their homes adequately, while businesses had restricted opening hours.
Mr F. A. Fawley, president of the Vectis Chess Club, achieved the extraordinary feat of contesting 12 matches simultaneously, winning four, losing five and drawing three.
Newport Rotary Club heard from the archdeacon of the Island, who talked about the daily newspaper as "the autocrat of the breakfast table". He also emphasised the importance of freedom of the press and the spiritual, intellectual and moral reaction that newspapers can provoke.
75 Years Ago
October 27, 1951
Over £3,000 worth of damage was caused in under half an hour when a garage in Avenue Road, Freshwater, caught fire. Flames up to 40 foot high engulfed the building.
The southern sea fisheries district committee was told of unorthodox fishing practices off the Island. Local fishermen complained of electric shock methods allegedly being used by Russian trawlermen.
Sandown Secondary Grammar School reported a record academic year at its annual speech day and prize-giving ceremony.
Read more
New bus route restores public transport link to Isle of Wight village
Ventnor wine expert ranked among UK's top sommeliers in prestigious list
50 Years Ago
October 23, 1976
Pupils at the new Medina High School, Newport, chose the design of the school badge. The students voted for 13-year-old Karen Woodger's interpretation of a tree of knowledge, clasped hands and the River Medina.
It was announced that low-priced parking tickets would be available in the Medina area when tickets are introduced at car parks that were previously free. The public works committee decided that six-month tickets would cost £6 while permits for a year should be £12.
For more tales of the past, subscribe to our online archive, where you can read the County Press editions dating back to 1884!
Share