FROM this newspaper 100 years ago. - On Wednesday evening Mr Robert Waites, of Bede-terrace, Barnard Castle, was the recipient of a case of pipes, a tobacco pouch, and a purse of gold, whilst to Mrs Waites a gold brooch was presented. The presentation took place in the first-class waiting room at Barnard Castle railway station, the gathering being presided over by Mr Hugh Wilson, mineral agent. A few months ago, Mr Waites, who was a passenger guard in the service of the N-E Railway Co, had the misfortune to injure his foot, which necessitated the amputation of his leg. In accepting the gifts, Mr Waites reviewed his connection with the old Stockton and Darlington Railway, and noted the remarkable changes which had taken place in his experience of railway life, which covered a period of nearly fifty years.

From this newspaper 50 years ago. - Sir, - For the past few years there has been much discussion as to whether foxhunting is cruel and should be abolished. As a regular rider to hounds with such packs as the South Durham, Hurworth and Cleveland, I reasoned the matter out and came to the conclusion that the country could well do without this expensive way of killing the fox ... The solution to this is to use the gun. Foxes must be kept under control, and the use of hounds is a slow job. Their death with a bullet would be quicker than being torn to pieces after being chased until exhausted. Much as I would miss the enjoyment of a chase on horseback, I realise that the country needs money more than I will ever need a day with the hounds. Facts have to be faced and this is just one of many sorrowful ones. - Yours etc, "Foxhunter", September 23, 1952.

From this newspaper 20 years ago. - Gymnast, television presenter and sports promoter, Suzanne Dando, fell asleep at the wheel of her car and ran into the back of the car in front near Thirsk. Dando, 21, pleaded guilty by letter to driving without due care and attention on June 6. The accident, which resulted in both vehicles being extensively damaged, happened on the A19 Thirsk bypass near Halfway House, while the defendant was driving to Teesside. Dando, of Crawley, said in her letter to the magistrates: "I had been working non-stop for two days and must have relaxed." ... A fine of £100 and an endorsement was imposed by Thirsk magistrates