FROM this newspaper 100 years ago. - The best-loved Queen that has ever reigned has passed away. Swiftly has the dread messenger come, and the greatest monarch of the greatest Empire the world has known has answered the call, and her people in every land mourn, and sympathising nations of every tongue and clime, who revered her for her lovely virtues and nobility, condole and unite in the universal sorrow. Words fail to pourtray the feelings and sympathies evoked throughout the world; nothing like it has ever before been seen.

From this newspaper 50 years ago. - Some indication of the widespread interest which is being taken in the activities of Messrs Paton and Baldwin's new factory at Darlington may be gauged from the fact that there are no further vacancies for visitors until next May. Each week between 150 and 200 people are conducted around the factory, and visiting parties have come from Newcastle, Stockton, Northallerton, Yarm and other places.

From this newspaper 25 years ago. - Several thousand I'm Driving badges have been issued free to public houses in the Darlington and Durham area, but licensees do not think they will have much effect. Mr Alan Confrey, secretary of the Darlington District of the National Association of Licensed House Managers, and licensee of the Black Swan, says the badges will not be used in his pub. He said some customers might be offended, and suggested a campaign publicising the breathalyser as a much more positive approach.