MIKE PETTY: Cambridgeshire News Index, 1897-1909, 1922-1935, 1947-1959, 1972-1984

Revised 24 Dec 2009. With added Time Was stories, March 2010.

Introduction

Each evening since March 1997 I have compiled a ‘Looking Back’ column in the
Cambridge Evening News in which I feature intresting snippets from issues of the
Cambridge News of 100, 75, 50 and 25 years ago. I have sought out unusual items
relating to villages and areas of Cambridge not usually featured

These stories are from the papers of 1897-1908, 1922-1933, 1947-1957 and 1972-1983.

The dates given are those on which the article appeared in my columns between 1997
and 2007 and not the exact date that the original paper carried them. I have notes
of precise dates and pages. Later entries include the date of the original story -
thus 33 01 29 means 29th January 1933

I can supply actual copies of many of these articles – please contact me.

The newspapers are held in the Cambridgeshire Collection together with other
Cambridge titles back to 1762. They have a variety of indexes including a record of
stories for every village in Cambridgeshire between 1770-1900 and newspaper
cuttings files on 750 topics from 1958 to date. I initiated much of the indexing
and have many indexes of my own. Please feel free to contact me for advice and
assistance.

For more details of newspapers and other sources for Cambridgeshire history see my
website www.cambridgeshirehistory.com/MikePetty

This index was produced as a working part of my personal research resources and
would benefit by editing. If you can make any of it work for you I am delighted.
But remember you should always check everything! An acknowledgement to ‘Mike
Petty’s Cambridgeshire News Index’ and a copy of your work would be welcome.

Searching the stories

These stories can be searched by any keyword. Later stories may have various
numbers below them. Those such as ‘c.34.6’ are part of a separate classified
sequence – contact me if you are doing subject searches.

Compilations
I have already produced ‘Looking Back’ compilations for a number of topics. If any
of these are of assistance let me know.

ABINGTON
AGRICULTURE 1922-1930
ALDRETH
AMBULANCE # c.21.1
AMERICA # EMIGRATION
ARMISTICE # WAR MEMORIAL # c.45
AUCKLAND ROAD CIRCUS OF VARITIES # c.76
AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION / R.A.C. # c.26.48
AVIATION # BALLOOONS # c.26.1
BALSHAM
BARTON – Hoops pub
BLUNTISHAM
BOL, Jerry
BONFIRE NIGHT # FAWKES # RAG
BOTTISHAM
BOURN
BRICKS # c.23
BROOKLANDS AVENUE
BURROUGH GREEN
BURWELL
CENTRAL HOTEL # c.61.2 # c.27.4
CHESTERFORDS
CHRIST’S LANE
CHRIST’S PIECES
CINEMAS # c.76.9
CIVIC RESTAURANT # c.27.4
CLAYHITHE
COLDHAM’S LANE
CORN EXCHANGE
COTTENHAM
CYCLES – selection # c.26.485

DAIRIES, MILKMEN – a selection

DANCE # c.69
DOWNHAM
DUXFORD (excluding airfield)
DOWNING COLLEGE – selection
ELEPHANTS # CIRCUS
ELSWORTH
ELTISLEY
EVERSDEN
FESTIVAL THEATRE # c.76
FIRST EASTERN GENERAL HOSPITAL SITE, BURRELL’S WALK
FORDHAM
FULBOURN (part)
GAMLINGAY
Gardening # c.18
GAS # c.24.4
GHOST, HAUNT
GOTHIC STREET
GRANSDEN, Gt & Lt – pam 343
GRUNTY FEN
GYPSIES
HADDENHAM
HARDWICK
HARSTON
HASLINGFIELD
HEMINGFORD GREY AND HEMINGFORD ABBOTS
HEYDON & CHISHILL
HISTON ROAD
ICKLETON
ISLEHAM (Edwardian)

ITALIANS
JESUS GREEN # c.32.3
KING STREET
LIGHTNING # c.12
LINTON 1901-1905
LITLINGTON
LONGSTANTON
LONGSTOWE
MAMMOTH SHOW
MANEA – all My Documents
MELBOURN
MELDRETH
MIDSUMMER & STOURBRIDGE FAIR # c.27.3
MIDSUMMER COMMON / FAIR (century of News) # c.27.3 # c.32.3
MOCK FUNERALS # c.36.9 # RAG
MOTORING selection to 1909 # c.26.48
NEEDINGWORTH
NEWMARKET 1923
NIGHT CLIMBING # c.39

OPIUM # c.21.1
PASSIVE RESISTERS # c.36 # c.82.03
PEAS HILL
POLICE HOUSES
RAMPTON
RAMSEY with ABBOTS RIPTON, COLNE, EARITH, KINGS RIPTON, PIDLEY, SOMERSHAM, UPWOOD,
WARBOYS, WOODHURST
RATS # c.19
RIDGEON
RIVER CAM
RIVER OUSE
ROSE CRESCENT
ROTARY
ST ANDREW’S STREET
ST BARNABAS CHURCH # c.83.01
ST IVES – 1997 stories # FLOODS 1947
ST IVES 1898-1948 selection plus others not edited
SAYLE
SHERIFFS
SIX MILE BOTTOM
SKATING # c.38 : skating
SLEAFORD STREET
SMOKING, TOBACCO, CIGAR
SNAILWELL
SOHAM (stories carried in 2000)
SPEEDWAY # c.38 : motorcycle racing
STURTON
SUFFRAGE # WOMEN
SUTTON GAULT
SWAFFHAM BULBECK

TELEVISION, WIRELESS # c.27.8

THETFORD, Lt
THRIPLOW
TREACLE MINES # FEN DITTON
UNEMPLOYMENT # c.32.1 (Century of Daily News stories)
UPWARE
WEDDINGS, MARRIAGES
WEST WICKHAM
WEST WRATTING
WHEELER STREET
WHIPPET AND GREYHOUND RACING # c.38 # DOG
WICKEN
WILBURTON, GRUNTY FEN & TWENTYPENCE
WIMPOLE HALL AMERICAN HOSPITAL # c.21.4
WINDMILLS
WITCH, WITCHES, WITCHCRAFT
WOODEN SPOONS # c.39
WORKHOUSE # c.32.9
YELLING
Mike Petty, 13a Reads Street, Stretham, Cambs CB6 3JT 01353 648106, 28 March 2009

Mikepetty@tiscali.co.uk www.cambridgeshirehistory.com/MikePetty

LOOKING BACK by MIKE PETTY : :

1997 entries

24th February
1972
Cambridge University members of the National union of Public Employees are planning
a large-scale
membership drive in the university. Their Secretary said today that a claim by the
union for a £20 basic weekly wage for manual & ancillary staff in universities
would not apply to Cambridge workers. (Meanwhile Melbourn Discount Warehouse
offered a Hotpoint twin-tub washing machine for £108 - £12 less than recommended
price - but more than five times their weekly wage)

1947
A London company secretary who left his Chrysler car on Kings Parade during the
night of Christmas Eve and the morning of Christmas day was summonsed for
obstruction and for leaving it without lights. PC
Tasker spoke of getting a hurricane lamp from the police station & attaching it to
the car to warn other traffic. He was fined 10/- in the first case and 20/- in the
second

1922
A grocer and his wife: separation order granted within a year of marriage ...
unpleasantness occurred a few weeks after marriage. In July she purchased a motor
cycle combination for £119. When she asked him to take her for a ride he struck her
on the jaw. Husband said it was his wife's suggestion that he should have
a sum of money and the motorcycle combination and go away from her up North again.

1897
Mr Wisbey referred to the roads question. They had been defeated but the
authorities had seen that Romsey Town people were a force to be reckoned with.
Hitherto they had been looked upon as a naughty dog, always barking and making a
noise, but without any bite. (Laughter) Mr Quinney referring to the sewage scheme
said he applied for work and was told by the engineer that they did not want men
who understood the work as they would know too much if things went wrong.
(Laughter)

25th February

1972
"The visual quality of New Square is totally spoiled at present by its use as a car
park. When new multi-storey car parks are built in the Fitzroy-Burleigh area
however the square will be returned to grass and will once again be a valuable part
of the Cambridge townscape"

1947
Housewives are dealt yet another blow today. Cambridge University & Town Waterworks
company will reluctantly be compelled to close down the water softening plant at
Cherry Hinton. Cambridge's water will then be about twice its present hardness.
There have been drastic reductions in the coal required to evaporate the brine at
the salt works in Cheshire. Mr Philip Porteous, managing director of the company
told a reporter "The Government takes the view that water softening is one of those
amenities without which we can manage in times of crisis, but we appreciate only
too well the difficulties of the housewife in these days of
soap rationing"

1922
"I have told people repeatedly at inquests that they had far better buy an old
orange box to use as a cot than let children sleep with their parents. People are
very apt to smother them unconsciously". The mother said it was not a really strong
child for it had a wheezing cold since birth on January 15th. She fed it on bread
slops and the breast generally. The weight of the child was below average being
6lbs 3ozs against the usual weight of 7lbs for a girl, 8lbs for a boy. Death was
due to natural causes.

1897
The contract for the new organ for Haverhill parish church has been placed in the
hands of Messrs Miller & son, Cambridge. The construction of the organ will be
specially arranged to keep the view of the stained glass window perfectly clear
which necessitates part of the organ being a considerable distance from the main
portion, and which has been specially arranged for by the builders

February 26th

1972
Undergraduates at Downing college today continued a 24-hour occupation of the
dining hall despite a warning that violent protest could close the college for the
rest of this term. They are protesting against the expulsion of two undergraduates
and the rustication of a third for their part in sending an obscene leaflet to
Downing college dons and undergraduates. A supported by a march last night by more
than 500 students
blocked Regent Street for more than an hour, with demonstrators seated in the road
outside the college

1947
Between 60 and 70 persons were in an upstairs room when the Falcon Club was alleged
to have been maliciously fired by a former member. Company Officer James Hyden of
the N.F.S. spoke of receiving a fire call at 9.21pm. The structure of the staircase
was of dry matchwood and it would have burst into flame in about another ten
minutes. A former committee member said "I did it out of spite" ... some of the
members had not been kind because "I was not dressed as well as them"

1922
The Rendezvous cinema, Hertford Street. "All next week. Super attraction! Mary
Pickford can no more grow up than Peter Pan & that is why her latest production
"Through the back doors" is just the type of charming picture you will want to
see ... the kind that made her famous ... brimful of heart interest ... intensely
effective. Special music programme. Perfect projection. Warm & comfortable"

1897
The clerk to the Ely Guardians applied for the removal of Tabitha Camm, an
eccentric old woman aged 72 years who is living in a tumbled-down old hovel in
Littleport fen. The place was filthy in the extreme. She has lived there all her
life and she tenaciously sticks to it. PC King said the walls were tumbling down
and the bricks had no mortar between them. The rain penetrated and soot and dirt
covered the place. The lady is independent in every sense of the word and would-be
sympathisers are quickly ordered to decamp

February 27th

1972
Production of the noses of the Concorde supersonic airliner, which was planned to
be in Cambridge, has been taken away by the British Aircraft Corporation. All the
research and development work on the nose has been done by Marshall's at Cambridge
airport. The senior shop steward is to see the Cambridge MP, Mr David Lane to try
to get the decision reversed

1947
Mrs Thurlborn of 29 Victoria Road rented a bedroom and sitting-room at £1.15.0 a
week in December. It included gas and electricity, and she and her husband had the
use of the coal shed. Recently a cold water basin had been put in. Her landlord
told the Tribunal he paid £1.10.0 a week rent for the house. He wanted the rooms
for his family as he, his wife and two children, the elder aged nearly 5 all slept
in the same room. The rent was reduced to £1.5.0

1922
Long-felt want supplied in Great Shelford. The hall is a converted army hut built
on the public recreation ground. Great Shelford was to be congratulated in that its
ex-Servicemen had joined with the Womens Friendly League to build the hall, a
result which was eminently satisfactory for the village. If the ex-Service men were
prepared to pull together for the places where they lived there was a great future
for the county.

1897
The Guildhall floor has become so unsafe that when a ball is held in the large room
the most elaborate precautions have to be taken to support the beams in the ceiling
of the Free Library beneath. This shoring-up process costs something like 30/- each
time and is a sheer waste of money

February 28th

1972
A four-bedroomed detached house at 35 Luard Road, Cambridge was sold for £23,000 at
an auction sale in the city. The house, built in 1937, includes three-quarters of
an acre of gardens with 36 bearing peach trees.

1947
Twelve months' disqualification from driving was amongst the penalties imposed on a
"freelance motor dealer" against whom there were four summonses. The first was for
driving a motor truck at a dangerous speed in Victoria Avenue (50 mph), the second
for exceeding the permitted speed for that class of vehicle, the third for driving
without third party insurance in force and the fourth for driving without a current
driving licence. When spoken to defendant told police "I am afraid I was over the
limit" but claimed he had the vehicle in full control, his brakes were perfect and
he could have stopped if necessary. He was fined a total of £10.10.0

1922
Cambridge Town Council Housing Committee ... approve the lay-out proposed of thirty
houses next Milton Road and Union Road with white brick facings, solid walls &
slated roofs. The windows to be sash ones with larger squares of glass.
1897
To let : a large advertising trolley, to parade the principal streets of
Cambridge. For terms & particulars apply Cambridge & District Advertising and Bill
Posting co. (ltd), Downing House, Regent St, Cambridge

LOOKING BACK by Mike Petty

March 3rd

1972

West Suffolk highway officials are considering what went wrong when a £30,000 road
improvment scheme to speed traffic at Newmarket's busiest junction caused chaos and
confusion when it was tried out this week.
Irate motorists complained to police as traffic piled up on all roads leading to
the junction on Tuesday night and yesterday a fire engine called to a chimney fire
had to take an alternative route to avoid an early-morning snarl-up. Under the
scheme a system of traffic lights is to replace the Clock Tower roundabout. Butt
less than 24 hours after the new statem was marked out kerb stones & traffic
diverted along a new road between Exeter Road and Fordham road it was abandoned.

1947
The Air Ministry say they believe a general thaw will arrive within the next 48
hours. Yorkshire was the coldest area having 29 degrees of frost. Gangs of
prisoners of war are today trying to dig through deep drifts of snow to reach a
point near the village of Octon Grange, Yorkshire, which has now been cut off for
more than six weeks. The R.A.C. report that road conditions in many parts of the
Midlands are worse than ever, and the majority of roads in Yorkshire are impassable

1922
The employees of the firm of Messrs Robert Sayle & co. ltd spent a very enjoyable
time together when they were the guests of the Directors at a supper and "social".
The assembly took place in the furniture department at 15 St Andrew's Hall, which,
thanks to the energetic efforts of Mr P. Norrington had been wonderfully
transformed for the occasion. Screens, curtains & carpets had been used to
excellent purpose and varied flags and coloured lamp shades enhanced the effect. Mr
Chaplin (the veteran governing director) mentioned the first party he ever attended
in connection with the firm was in 1866 when the late Mr Sayle had been in business
for about 25 years. In those days things were very different. They had no Bank
Holidays and no half-holidays except one, and that was Flower Show day when they
closed at four o'clock. (Laughter). Business hours too were much longer. People
often spoke of the "good old times" but "men could do a good deal more work then
than many of us can do today"

1897
Mr B.W. Beales has the pleasure to announce that he has disposed of the business
carried on for many years by him as a brewer and wine and spirit merchant at the
Panton Brewery in this town, to Messrs Harold Barber Bailey (son of the late Mr
Frederick Bailey, of Burleigh House, Newmarket Road) and Herbert Hazeldine Tebbutt,
the continuing partner in the late firm of Robinson & Tebbutt, and the business
will in future be carried on by these gentlemen under the style of Bailey & Tebbutt

c.27.4

March 4th
1972
The Cambridge M.P., Mr David Lane yesterday waived aside professional traffic
statistics and asked those at the by-pass inquiry to use their eyes and their
commonsense In a statement to the three-week old inquiry Mr Lane gave his whole-
hearted support to both the proposed western and northern bypasses and claimed to
have the backing of most people in Cambridge. A woman living in Elizabeth Way wrote
"On this bend to which the big lorries cruise and then rev up hard out of it it is
one frightful nightmare and the fumes are really killing". A man living in
Chesterton Road wrote : "Life is now intolerable and the only acceptable answer is
an alternative route by-passing the city altogether" In supporting the northern
bypass Mr Lane said disturbance to Girton village must be minimised.

1947
There is to be no night-shift in Cambridge. Instead there will be an attempt by
local industry to save, during normal hours, 30 per cent of its electricity
consumption. To do this the larger firms, among them Pye's and Marshalls Flying
School, will make use of stand-by generator sets which will relieve the grid at
peak periods. The breweries have worked out plans to transfer part of their share
of the load by running a proportion o f their machinery outside the peak hours. A
spokesman said this might be described as "a semi-
nightshift" A large proportion of the peak load is accounted for by domestic users
who will have to make a drastic reduction in the use of electrical appliances if
industry is to avoid cuts inpower

1922
Det-Constable Abbott presented his report (to the Borough Licencing panel). He said
the trade in beer of the Bird in Hand, Newmarket Road, was better than that of the
Hare & Hounds which was 107 yards away. The next nearest house was the Crown in
Wellington-street. Charles Byatt, the tenant, said he had held the licence for
about 20 years. He was quite satisfied with the living he was making. Arthur E.W.
Payne, secretary for Mesrs Bailey & Tebbutt said the house had been doing four
barrels a week. John W. Pate, architect and surveyor said he had produced plans to
rebuilt the premises as soon as the company took over the house in January 1919.
The work had not been done owing to the difficulty in getting tenders from builders
through lack of skilled labour and materials. Joshua Charles Newman, a builder,
said the best part of the local skilled labour had been commandeered by the
Government for housing schemes.

c.27.4

1897
The clerk (of Chesterton Urban District Council) read a letter from the chairman of
the Milton Parish Council stating that he had been asked to draw the attention of
the Council to the large heap of rubbish on Mr Few's land near the railway crossing
which was causing a nuisance throughout the neighbourhood.
It seemed the contractor who gathered their house refuse had deposited a large heap
within 10 yards of the public highway. There were 200 or 300 yards of house refuse
in a large heap, and it generated an amount of gas and bad sent. The smell was
infinitely worse than the smell from the sewage farm

March 5th

1972
Residents at Over have been saved a 1/2p [0.5 pence rate rise through the efforts
of the village's Young Wives Club disclosed the chairman of the Over Parish
Council, Mr Albert Barker. He said the Over Young Wives Club had bought a
children's slide for the village from their fund raising activities. "They have
saved not only the young people but the old age pensioners as well, in fact all the
villagers a 1/2p rate. It is a very worthy effort". The £150 slide is to be erected
on the recreation ground. About 1,250 residents of Over will benefit from the fund
raising activities of the Young Wives Club

1947
Bus passengers stranded this morning when their vehicle ran into a 5 ft drift on
the Harston-Fowlmere road, walked waist-high through the snow to another bus. A
"Clippie" accompanied them. The 7.40 Premier Travel coach from Royston to Cambridge
was stuck in the drift for 3 1/2 [three and a half hours. A snow-
plough called in to its assistance was itself stuck about 300 yards away. Several
roads in the district were completely blocked this morning after last night's
blizzard. Worst local road, classified by the A.A. as "very dangerous" is the
Cambridge-Huntingdon thoroughfare where the snow has been wind driven into three
and four foot drifts

1922
On strolling along Kings-parade this morning we saw a crowd of undergraduates.
Mingling therewith we became aware of the presence of a number of cyclists
accoutred with hockey sticks. We divined then that a bicycle polo stunt was about
to be "stunted". In short, it was a stupendous scheme schemed for the laudable
purpose of brightening Cambridge. We waited a short time. Then cheers burst forth
and the game (?) commenced. After wielding their weapons vigorously for about five
minutes and hitting the "pill" (i.e. a spotless tennis ball), the players raised
their battered and war-worn cycles alonf and to the accompaniment of cheers bore
them tenderly to a place of safety. Motor 'buses, cycles and handcarts were
enabled to get through the press by the help of the police. Ardour became somewhat
damped until the ball was arrested by the police, when cheers once more broke
forth, but the ball was remanded, and whence it flew we knew not. Thus ended the
now customary end-of-term rag. Although not what it might have been it was amusing,
which is one point in its favour

c.36.9

1897
Wm Henry Chapel Smith, draper of 13 Market street was summoned for hanging a pair
of corsets and a roll of calico outside his shop front so as to incommode
passengers. P.C. Savidge said the things projected four inches. Defendant said "I
have lived in the street 25 years and you have been in the force 25 minutes. I
think you were drawing the line too close. I don't know what we are coming to". He
said the bye-law was an injustice to traders. The Chairman said it seemed to him
admitted that something projected beyond the line of the shop. Fined 1/-

March 6th

1972
A Burwell landmark, one of the two 180 foot high chimneys at the disused brickworks
was demolished on
Saturday – but only after two earlier bids failed. The first two attempts left the
chimney standing on a section of its base measuring only three feet by 18 inches. A
final explosion with one-and-a-half pounds of blasting gelatine was needed to send
the chimney crashing. The operation was part of a plan to clear the
former Burwell Brick Company which ceased production last autumn. The brick company
folded s they were no longer making money due to a shrinking order book, old plant
and high costs. The firm were sold by their parent company, Ibstock Brick & Tile
Company to Ruane Developments who plan to turn the 40-acre site into a rubbish dump

1947
Last night's blizzard completely cut off villages around Newmarket and an official
of the Eastern
Counties Omnibus Company told a reporter : "The position is absolutely hopeless. We
can run no
bus services to the country whatsoever". All roads to Ely are impassable and drifts
piled ten and twelve feet high have bought road traffic to a standstill. Villages
cut off by snow included Elsworth and Knapwell. "Neither the mail nor the papers
have arrived to-day" an Elsworth resident told the "C.D.N." today. "There are
waist-high drifts in the village. The children are having a forced holiday"

1922
George Shipp, 20, Severn-place, labourer was summoned for taking possession of a
stray dog and not returning it to the owner. Harry Sumner Denny, De Freville-avenue
said that his wife's Pekingese dog strayed from his house and he notified the
police. On Feb. 22nd, in consequence of information from the police, he saw the dog
at Ram-yard and took possession of it. The dog was worth from £15 to £20. Robert
James Odell, dealer, spoke to purchasing a dog from the defendant. Mrs Grace
Bradshaw, Abbey-road, said
that she purchased the dog from Odell for £1 and a horse bit. The Chief Constable
said that this sort of thing was rather prevalent and he took a serious view of it.
Defendant was fined 40/-

1897
Messrs Grain, Moyes and Wisbey offered for sale by auction two valuable licensed
properties situate at Fulbourn and Fen Ditton respectively. There was a large and
representative attendance and the bidding was very brisk. The property at Fulbourn
consists of the beer-house known as "The Royal Oak" with 4-quarter brewery,
malting, club-room etc, a farm homestead with barn and stables, and about two acres
of paddock and orchard in the occupation of Messrs Hudson's Cambridge & Pampisford
Breweries Company at a year rent of £55. The bidding started at £500 and ultimately
reached £1,050 at which price it was disposed of.
"The Blue Lion", Fen Ditton was then offered. It contains tap-room, sitting-room
and three bedrooms, with a yard at side etc and is let at a rental of £25 per
annum. The first bid given was £300, and the price quickly rose until it reached
£825, when it was sold. The results of the sales
were highly satisfactory to the vendors.

March 7th

1972
Cambridge's Civic Restaurant, one of the last in the country, will be closed on
March 30 after 30 years of
service stretching back to the days of British Restaurants The old Post Office
building, where it is situated, is to be demolished to make way for the next stage
of the Lion Yard development. The restaurant which for several years has served an
average of 1,000 lunches a day has been there since 1947. Before then its previous
home since 1942 had been the the Pitt Club in Jesus Lane. It was then that it was
known as a British restaurant, one of the thousands set up by the Government
throughout the country to provide a communal feeding service during the war years.

1947
The work of clearing Cambridge streets of snow is costing £500 a day. Every
available lorry and a labour
force in the region of 400 men is engaged in the task. There is a generally held
view in the town that the
snow clearers are ding a hard job very well. Meanwhile there has been an almost
cheerful acceptance
of the inconveniences.For the second morning in succession, most of Cambridge
walked to work today -
strange sight in the normally bicycle-crowded streets

1922
An inquest was held by the Borough Coroner on a boy aged five, the son of a
bricklayer, who had died from
diptheria. The parents had not called in a doctor until it was too late. The
father said the boy had been ill for the last week or so, and had been away from
school. "I belong to the Peculiar People and we believe in faith healing – the
laying on of hands and anointing with oil". On March 4th the boy appeared to be
worse and could not get his breath easily. He sent his wife for the Doctor at
midnight and while she was gone the boy collapsed in his arms and could not draw
his breath. The doctor said that if one went out to every child
that was unwell one would be out half the night. Next morning the mother called and
told him the child was
dead. The child's brother had been swabbed at school as there were cases there.
Unfortunately deceased was absent from school then. The Coroner said "When a case
like this occurs it not only affects the parents and their children, but it may
have a very serious effect upon the whole town"

1897
At St Paul's church on Sunday morning the Rev Dr Stokes said "The town owes a debt
of gratitude to the
authorities for their elaborate and extensive efforts to check the gambling evil
which for some time past has
been rampant in our midst. It has for many months been a matter of public scandal
that certain men have been at the corners of some of our streets enticing young men
and lads, as well as unwary men and even women into betting and gambling. It was of
great importance to capture not one or two only but the whole band, and especially
those who finance the business. As the guilty parties promised never again to
infringe the new bye-law it is not to be wondered at that the magistrates only
imposed a small fine but it is a matter of regret that no severe punishment could
be inflected on these corruptors of the morals of our town"

Looking back, by Mike Petty

March 10th

1972
Sainsburys are planning a major supermarket development on a four-acre site at the
corner of Coldham's Lane and Brooks Road, Cambridge. The group seeks either to
build a supermarket with a petrol filling station, four shops and parking for 355
cars, or a supermarket with four shops and space for 390 cars.
Sainsburys, whose city centre supermarket is expected to open in July, describe
their new proposed development as a "district shopping facility". "We believe that
edge of town developments are the
thing of the future" said a company spokesman. "Cambridge needs two Sainsburys, one
to serve the
centre needs and one to serve the district shopper. This one must have plenty of
parking. We would sub-let
the shops and filling station and the parking development would serve adequately
the whole development"
1947
A night with one degree of frost, followed by the warmest day of the year, andf
then a night with no
frost at all. This was Cambridge's weekend experience. This morning at half-past
ten it was 35 and still rising. Work on snow clearance proceeded throughout the
week-end in both borough and county with the result that all main roads are now
open both ways and all by-roads passable. "We are hoping for the best" said Mr
W.E. Doran, engineer to the Ouse Catchment Board this morning. He was asked about
the prospect of flooding and explained that at present there is only a slight
increase in river discharges. But a quick thaw will no doubt cause floods in the
upper reaches. There is no immediate danger of a crisis in the fens because there
is a very large storage area available. "If the thaw continues slowly there is a
very good chance of it passing off without undue trouble"

1922

A suggestion made by the Postmaster of Ely (Mr T.W.Bird) to dispense with the
evening mail deliveries
on Saturdays in order to provide a half-day holiday for the postmen did not find
favour with the Ely Urban
District Council. Mr Bird wrote asking the Council's sanction to the suspension of
the 5.15 pm delivery, and
mentioned that is was being done in many towns. He added that the particular
delivery was quite an unimportant one for the articles for delivery were few. Mr
C.H. Trimmer considered it was the wrong delivery to take off, as there was no
delivery on Sunday. Rev T.J. Kirkland thought the week-end posts were in a
"dreadful" state now and deliveries were most uncertain. He thought they could
hardly agree with the suggestion unless the Sunday morning be reinstated. The
Council agreed.

1897
Gamlingay : Very wet weather has been experienced in this district for some time
past and fine weather is now very urgently required. The clay land has lacked the
pulverising influence of frosts and the heavy rains have beaten the land down to
such a tenacious mass that drilling will be very difficult and unsatisfactory. The
mild winter has enabled the farmer and grazier to keep his stock on the grass. A
short time ago a visitor at Gamlingay was changing trains at Ely when his attention
was called by the stationmaster to the novel view of about 60 rats "up a tree"
near the station. The heavy rains had flooded the
district including a farmhouse and yard, and the rats to escape drowning had
mounted the tree

Looking back, by Mike Petty

March 11th

1972
The former Ministry of Housing and Local Government simultaneously agreed to the
building of one of the
world's biggest radio telescopes near Cambridge and the routing of a major road
straight through it, the inquiry (into the Western bypass) heard yesterday.
Professor Sir Martin Ryle said in 1966 an application
for a grant to build a 5 km radio telescope along the line of the old Bletchley to
Cambridge railway at
Lord's Bridge and extend it as far as the bridge over the River Cam was being
discussed. A grant of more than £2 million was made for the telescope. Later it was
learned that discussions had lead to a route for the Cambridge Western bypass which
passed through the line of telescopes. As a result the size of the telescope had
to be reduced to 4.6 km with a considerable loss of power and the instrument was
site half-a-mile further west. In 1970 it was announced that the by-pass was to be
built as a motorway. Then it became known that radar devices were being developed
for long-distance vehicles to prevent multiple motorway crashes. It seems likely
that some of these devices will be introduced during the next five years.

c.36.9

1947
"We all have our share of food and those who want more are greedy - and when they
take illegal means to get extra it is something far more serious. A charwoman of
Coldham's Lane heard these words from the chairman of Cambridge Borough Magistrates
(Mr W.L. Briggs) at the Magistrates court when she was fined £2 and £3 respectively
for stealing a ration book and using it when it was not issued to her. The
defendant was 59 years old. On leaving school she took up domestic work. In the
1914-18 war she worked as a charwoman and was still employed as such. Her husband
died two years ago and there were six in the family - all married with the
exception of a daughter aged 18. Defendant's earnings, a widows pension and an
allowance from her daughter, amounted to £2 a week

1922
Brooklands Avenue Inquiry. It was an attempt to make a road from Hills-road to
Trumpington-road. At present the greater part of the Avenue was open but it was in
regard to the smaller part at the Trumpington-road end that the application was
made. At the present time there was a gate fastened there and kept locked by the
owner. He understood that people going to houses in the Avenue were allowed to go
though and he could understand that the gentelman would like to keep it a quiet
place. Personally he would oppose it if he lived there.

c.44.6

1897
On Monday evening as a cow was being put in a railway truck it broke loose and
scattering all hands by its
fierce aspect tore up the Staion-road. When it arrived at Back Hill a woman with
more courage than her sex are usually credited with under such circumstances
rushed out with open arms to stop its progress. The infuriated animal turned on
her, but she fortunately escaped. It next ran down Silver Street and put to flight
some of the newly-enlisted Militia recruits. It knocked down Reuben Lemon, the
Cathedral watchman and
attacked Mr J. Rogers and tossed him as high as the eaves of Mrs Ellis' barn.

Looking back, by Mike Petty

March 12th

1972
Villagers at Great Gransden voted to put 1p on their rates for a year to raise £174
towards electrifying
their church clock, which is one of the oldest working clocks in the country. Some
of them gasped when they heard at the annual parish meeting that the total cost of
repairing the clock and electrifying the winding mechanism would be £918. But they
relaxed a little when they were told that there was a good chance that most of the
money would be found by the Pilgrim Trust. The clock, which was made around 1680,
has an extremely rare mechanism and its chimes play six different tunes. The clock
was last repaired in 1931.
Someone has had to climb the spiral staircase every day for 282 years to wind the
clock. 56-year-old Mr Sonny Sherman does it at the moment, but the parochial church
council doubt if they will be able to find anybody to take over the job if Mr
Sherman has to give it up
1947
The Kent Medway and the Wiltshire Avon - reaching their highest level fro 20 years
- and the Thames were to-day providing the greatest flooding dangers. At Maidstone
riverside basements, cellars and yards of
warehouses were flooded, and water seeped into houses and shops. Some streets in
Sailsbury were flooded to a depth of several inches and piles of clay were dumped
in the main street ready to block up shops and houses. The Thames rose 18 inches at
Maidenhead during the night and at Windsor it was 2ft 6 ins above normal. Flood
waters invaded many more acres. The A.A.reported numerous flooded roads in
Somerset, Wales, East Anglia and the Home Counties. The latest Air Ministry
forecast is that there will be
local slight snowfalls in many areas, becoming more general and heavier. Snow
clearance in Cambridge up to Feb 18th cost approximately £2,000. Another unusual
expenditure is that of 35s (SHILLINGS) a day incurred during the recent lighting
restrictions in removing electric lamp bulbs from the various traffic signs which
cannot be switched off

1922
The most depressing feature of the county council elections was the apathy of the
electors. I ventured to
prophesy there would not be many changes; actually there have been five. Of these
Labour have gained four seats and thus make their first appearance on the County
Authority. In each case their majority is well under 100, it is difficult therefore
to draw any conclusion as to the strength of Labour in the county. Whilst I am not
alarmed at Labour having a share in the representation on the County Council I
regret the defeat of Mrs Dimsdale as it reduces the little band of women in the
Council. Mr A.E. Stubbs, the Parliamentary candidate for the County has at last
succeeded in setting his foot into local government work having turned the tables
on Mr H. Edwards. After three defeats in Parliamentary, County Council and
municipal elections he needed a little encouragement

1897
Having visited the cemetery on the Huntingdon-road this morning I was thinking what
a beautiful spot it was; with a good carriage drive from the road. As there was a
very large field adjoining it I thought what a
suitable place it was for a cemetery for Cambridge, and the approach to it far
better than through Barnwell. It
does not seem much farther than the spot that was thought of, past the Paper Mills.
- Letter

Looking back, by Mike Petty

March 13th

1972
Milk - 1 pt (silver top) 5½ p Bread - large medium sliced 0.10; butter 1/2 lb
Lurpak 15½ p Margarine - 1/2 lb Stork 6p Coffee - 8oz Nescafe 50½p Tea - 1/4 lb
Typhoo 8½ p Whisky - 26 3/4 oz Johnnie Walker £2.65
Cigarettes - 20 Woodbine plain 26p Petrol - 1 gall BP 4-star 36p Newspaper -
Cambridge Evening News – 3p. Car Park - multi-storey Park Street, up to 2 hours 7p

1947
From all parts of the district today come stories of flooded roads, following on
the thaw and rain, with
some of them impassable to traffic. In Cambridge itself, Parkers Piece, which for
weeks has been an expanse of dazzling white, with not so much as a blade of grass
showing, now resembles a lake. At St Ives some of the back streets are flooded
fairly extensively, the water on the road to a depth of about 10 inches entering
many houses in the town, forcing people to move their belongings upstairs. Traffic
had to be diverted last night because of the movement washing water into the
houses. Three feet of water in places is reported at both Pampisford and Caxton,
with vehicles stuck in the mud at the latter village and having to be dug out.

1922
The County licencing meeting were told the White Horse Comberton was a fully-
licenced house, the owners being the Star Brewery, Cambridge. The licensee had two
children and also did other work as a canvasser for a window cleaning company. The
annual rent was £5.00. The accommodation consisted of one tap-room - which was also
used as a living room for the family, a parlour, a billiard room, a small bar, a
cellar and four bedrooms. The landlord had suggested the house might conveniently
be made into two cottages. There was no public lavatory accommodation.The trade of
the White Horse for 1921 had been 46½ barrels and 37½ gallons of spirits. It was
106 paces from the Tailors Arms another fully-licenced and much better constructed
house; there were at present three fully-licenced and one beer house inthe village
giving an average of 109 people to each licenced house.

1897
Now the minds of all her subjects are bent upon the question of how most fittingly
to celebrate the Queen's
long reign, I venture to revive a suggestion of converting part of Midsummer Common
into a running track and athletic training ground and of building a public
gymnasium thereon. At present the town is entirely dependent upon the kindness of
the university for a place to hold sports, while athletes haveabsolutely nowhere to
train properly

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

March 14th

1972
A group of educationalists today unveiled detailed proposals for a community radio
in Cambridge. If the trust get a licence they will cover everything from university
talks to darts matches. They make it clear that they do not want a station which
resorts to excessive pop music, peak listening periods would be devoted to local
news, light entertainment and pop music. From 5pm to 6.30 pm there would be a
children's programme followed by news. The late night slot from 11pm to 1 am would
be aimed at the University age group
with a programme on the lines of the old television favourite "That was the week
that was"

c.27.8

1947
Cambridge has been hit today by some of the worst foloding for 30 years. The
rapidly rising and flowing
river has invaded riverside homes, Midsummer Common and other open spaces are
flooded, there have been fears for the safety of Silver Street bridge, and there is
no sign of any diminution of the abnormal flow. There is an unconfirmed report that
the Byron's Pool sluice has broken, and Grantchester Meadows and the "Backs" are
completely under water. Silver Street was closed to all traffic during the
morning.There were fears that the rush of water would seriously affect the
foundations of the bridge. Street lighting was switched on in Linton when residents
of houses in Meadow Lane and Chapel Terrace made a hurried evacuation of their
waterlogged homes. The water rose to well over knee-deep but was subsiding this
morning. At Sawston the sub-power station was marooned and electricity was cut off
this morning. The Great North Road beyond Brampton is under water and the A.A.
scout at Brampton cross roads was "up to his knees" at his post this morning

c.46.5

1922
An election always holds out the promise of excitement and although Cambridge is
noted for its excitable
nature and the present three-cornered fight (a byelection) has given plenty of
opportunities, it has been one of the quietest elections on records. Cambridge
awoke to an eventful day and even the least political-minded had the election
forced on their notice by placards and photographs of the candidates in windows, on
hoardings and on walls. Conservative enthusiasts had whitewashed "Vote for Newton"
in two-foot letters on the pavements and were not particular where they did it.
Perhaps the most noticeable were across the front door of the Central Liberal Club
in Downing-street and it was not until mid-day that the inmates managed to erase
the conflicting advice. The children have at least entered into the spirit of the
thing and the old election songs to the tune of "Tramp, tramp, tramp, the boys are
marching" have been dragged from their respective
retirement. The candidates names being all of two syllables have proved adaptable
to the rhyme. "Vote, vote, vote for Mr Morgan (or Mr Dalton) have satisfied the
requirements of the song whilst the trouble of Sir Douglas' one-syllable title have
been overcome by referring to him as "Duggie Newton"

1897
The "Cambridge Daily News" makes proposals. A municipal washhouse. We believe there
are hundred
of women in Cambridge - the wives of working men - who would hail with the
liveliest satisfaction
the establishment of a place where they could do their week's washing with some
degree of comfort. How many homes belonging to the humbler classes are there
without anything like proper washing and drying accommodation to the occupants of
which such a place would be a boon and a blessing

Looking back, by Mike Petty

March 17th

1972
It is known that William the Conqueror launched a full-scale against Hereward. But
did he attack through the Aldreth causeway or along another causeway from the
direction of Stuntney and much nearer Ely. Now Dr R.C.Smail, Fellow of Sidney
Sussex college and his son Richard a Perse school pupil will be arguing against Reg
Holmes, a noted Ely historian and Charles Bester, parish clerk of Haddenham. The
chair to be taken by J.R. Ravensdale lecturer at Homerton and another local
historian. (And it was organised by a young Mike Petty!; just for the record the
audience voted in favour of Aldreth)

1947
In the still of this morning's sunshine there was graphic evidence all over the
county of the devastation caused by last night's gales which produced tornado-like
gusts screaming over the countryside at a velocity of 99 m.p.h. A tree fell across
a Prisoner of War hut and Hemingford Abbots and seriously injured the occupants.
When a tree crashed on a P.o.W camp at Whittlesford two Germans were injured. The
complete roof of the kitchen of Downing college, Cambridge was blown off.

1922
The results of the Cambridge by-election was declared as follows. Sir Dougland
Newton (Conservative & Unionist) 10,897, Mr Hugh Dalton (Lab) 6,954, Mr Cope Morgan
(Lib) 4,529. The first telegram of congratulation was received from the staff of
the Croxton fruit farm

1897
Not 10 per cent of houses in
public bath in Cambridge and
workingmen can afford to pay
purpose such as Petersfield,
and it would move one of the
and around Cambridge have a bathroom. Thre is one one
for its use 1s (SHILLING) is charged. How many of us
that? The corporation has plenty of land for the
the cost of the baths would be not more than £20,000
standing disgraces of Cambridge. (Letter)

c.21.1

March 18th

1972
Cambridge voted a big Yes to the permanent closure of Petty Cury in a survey. The
results published today show that 92.1 per cent agreed that the closure had added
to the convenience of shoppers. There was also overwhelming feeling that the
experiment should be tried on other roads. The most common comment was "Close the
whole Market Square to traffic"

1947
Hundreds of men and women, troops and German prisoners among them who worked
throughout last night are still pitting their efforts against the biggest flood
threat of all time. The breach at Over today widened to over 20 yards during the
night and at about 1 o'clock this afternoon water began to pour over the top of the
Old West.River bank at Haddenham. The break at Lt Thetford yesterday afternoon
flooded over 2,000 acres.

1922
The Labour party is naturally jubilant at having doubled its vote since the last
election despite the fact that
many who voted for the Rev. Rhondda Williams on that occasion returned to the
Liberal fold. Labour meetings were marked by an enthusiasm that was very
infectious. In no General Election could they hope to make such a display as they
did on this occasion

1897
"What do I thing of baths and wash-houses" said the wife of a working man. "Why
that it would be a Jubilee all the year round. Here, just come and have a look
round the house. Now how would you like to do a weeks wash without a copper to boil
the 'things' in and a yard not big enough to swing a cat in to dry 'em when they
are washed ... we boil the things in the pot, the same as we boils the puddings and
the potatoes and big things like sheets don't get boiled at all"

March 19th

1972
Victoria road, Cambridge, is a narrow one with even narrower pavements barely wide
enough for one person.But this road is used unceasingly day and night by heavy
traffic. This is a confounded nuisance because of the noise and vibration and
pollution caused to the unfortunate people who live there and use the
road. The blast from these high-powered lorries driving at speed along the road
means old and weaker people are literally blown aside by the blast. (Letter)

1947
The bank has burst at Ten Mile Bank and on the River Wissey and water is pouring
through a thirty
yard breach. A huge area of fenland is involved and livestock is being evacuated.
Another breach has occurred in the bank of the Old West at Stretham and water is
pouring in a torrent into Waterbeach fen. The waters of the Cam have dropped seven
inches at Clayhithe but a break in the bank is feared about a mile and a half
beyond towards Ely

1922
At the Cambridgeshire County Council annual meeting all the retiring aldermen were
re-elected, save one, and that one was Sir George Fordham who for a great number of
years was chairman of the Council. His increasing sympathy with the Labour party
aroused the hostility of his old supprters and they resolved to show it when the
re-election of aldermen came along

1897
It is well known that Downing college desire to part with a portion of their
beautiful grounds (Lensfield
Road end) for building purposes which I think would be one of the greatest
calamities that could happen to
central Cambridge. It would instead make a public park that would be worthy of the
unique occasion (Queen
Victoria's Diamond Jubilee} and of the University and town of Cambridge (Letter
from H.E.Ladds)

March 20th

1972
Most of the people who will be displaced by the Burleigh Street-Fitzroy Street
redevelopment (Cambridge) want to be rehoused in the same area according to a
report. Counc. Christopher Bradford claimed that the land was bought by the city
council for "chickenfeed" ten years ago and is now worth £65,000. The council paid
only £200 to £300 development value for some of the houses and perhaps £2,000 for
some of the others

1947
Over 200 men of the Beds. & Herts. Regiment were still working after nearly 24
hours with little or no respite in their fight against the rushing water from the
breach of the Wissey. Throughout the night they filled sandbags by the light of
hurricane lamps stacking them in a seven-feet wall along a mile stretch of the Ely
to King's Lynn road south of Southery. The total area affected by the flooding is
now more than 100 square miles

1922
A Babraham woman was summonsed that when driving a motor bicycle she did not stop
when signalled to by a police constable. PC Ward said he was on Kings-parade,
Cambridge, for the purpose of keeping the road clear when the Vice-Chancellor and
other members of the University were crossing the road to St Mary's church.
Defendant rode right through the procession and stopped on the other side. She said
she could not see the procession and as she had only had the machine a few days she
could not stop dead.
1897
Mr Edwin Bays, architect, forwards particulars of a scheme for erecting a viaduct,
with Bathing Sheds
under, leading from the Trumpington Road, Cambridge, to Newnham. The proposed
viaduct road would start from the Leys School grounds, Coe Fen, Newnham and
terminating at Grantchester and Barton-roads. It will be necessary to construct two
river and three road arches and it is intended to utilise one as a Swimming Bath
for women, and the other two as dressing rooms

March 21st

1972
As Cambridgeshire house prices soar - in one area up by 100 per cent in six months
- estate agents report an
acute shortage of houses for sale. And the houses that do come up on the market are
snapped up immediately. The agents put the blame on the lack of building land
released by the planners and that fact that more people than ever are able to buy
their own homes

1947
An attempt was to be made this afternoon to rescue a bull marooned since Monday in
a stall at Crane's Fen
farm near Earith. It was hoped to borrow an army "Duck" for the attempt. Mr J Cook
said it was standing in
about two feet of water. "It seems quite happy but it may prove different when we
try and rescue it. The job
will not be easy as the animal weighs at least half a ton"

1922
Motor wheel spokes and pieces of lamp glass and rubber from an inner tube which was
burst littered in
profusion about the Lynn-road Ely as the result of a Ford car coming into collision
with a steam lorry. The
near side front wheel of the lorry crashed almost broad side on into the motor's
off-side front wheel which it
splintered beyond repair. So badly wrecked was the front of the car that it took
mechanics about two hours
to lift it sufficiently to get it away. The car is not insured.

1897
A Rampton man was summoned for being in possession of a dwelling house which was
dangerous and unfit for habitation. There were three rooms on the ground floor, the
rooms at either end were boarded up and the centre portion occupied. The only thing
that prevented that from falling in was the floor above. The roof was
giving way and part of it rested on an old four-post bedstead. The occupant had to
hold up an umbrella to keep the wet out of the house

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

March 24th

1972
It was "eyes down" for the first time last night in Cambridge's new £10,000 bingo
hall which will offer
enthusiasts an almost non-stop programme throughout afternoons and evenings six
days a week. The bingo hall which can accommodate nearly 1,000 players at a single
sitting, is in the converted former Central Cinema in Hobson Street

c.76.9 # BINGO
1947
"Operation Neptune", the scheme to seal the great gap in the banks of the River
Ouse near Over by using
Neptune amphibians began this afternoon. Nine Neptunes - weighing anything between
37 and 40 tons each – are being employed, as well as submarine nets and sandbags.
One has its nose against the bank several yards from the breach and a number of
others are in a field about half a mile away on the other side of the river. They
will be brought to the gap, line up across the breach and netting will be dropped
from them. Tarpaulins will be fastened over the netting and weighted down with
sandbags.

1922
The Master of Christ's college, Cambridge, Sir Arthur Shipley contributes to the
discussion on the problems
of finding careers for boys leaving school. At the present time engineering is
overcrowded and it is increasingly difficult to get boys into business. There is
still a great demand for men to take holy orders and
a young man could perhaps make the living pay. Tobacco planting in Nyasaland seems
to offer some prospect of a fair return on capital investment.

1897
Notwithstanding the sewerage operations and the numerous complaints of nauseous
smells from manholes in
almost every part of Cambridge, it is exceedingly gratifying to find that the death
rate is steadily decreasing. It is also a matter for congratulation that 71 per
cent of the notified scarlet fever cases were admitted into the Sanitorium. If the
council would courageously determine to abolish the fees at that institution the
percentage of admissions would be still higher

March 25th
1972
Three separate lines for the proposed Huntingdon by-pass were put forward yesterday
at the re-opened by-
pass inquiry. The official line proposed by the Department of the Environment would
take the traffic along a north-south route past the town. This is being opposed by
the county's M.P., Sir David Renton, who favours an East-West line. But yesterday's
surprise was a third proposal put forward by a Hemingford Abbots man
which would incorporate the town's by-pass in a major route between Ipswich and the
M1. He said in the next 10 years the increase of traffic with East Coast ports
would boost traffic through Huntingdon to such a degree that a second by-pass could
prove necessary if the current north-south line is adopted

1947
Under the glare of "artificial moonlight" "Operation Neptune" was successfully put
into effect last night.
Nine great amphibian tanks have sealed the breach in the River Ouse at Over. It was
the first of its kind
ever to be performed in England. The whole area was reminiscent of wartime, crowded
with duffle-coated mud-caked troops many of them tired out but still cheerful
enough to sing, and military equipment of every
description. The operation was due to start at 5 0'clock but owing to technical
hitches it was late evening before everything was ready to commence

1922
There was issued yesterday the report of the Royal Commission on Oxford and
Cambridge Universities. "We are unanimous in thinking" (says the Commissioners)
"that ample facilities should be offered for the
education of women. On the other hand we strongly desire that Cambridge should
remain mainly and predominantly a men's university. To give a sense of security we
consider that the number of women undergraduates should be 500, which would give a
proportion of about one in each ten of the total number
of undergraduates"

c.36.9

1897
The Royston fire brigade was in a most neglected condition. They had members who
were ever ready to do
their best in any emergency but it was impossible for them to do their work with
hardly any hose. If a fire
broke out in the High Street it would not be possible to work at it from the front
and rear too. The building
in which the engine was stowed away was low, damp and small, so small that the
engine could hardly be got in and out of the place. (S.Camps speaking at Royston
Public Meeting)

March 26th

1972
The site of the old Woolpack Inn, the 200-year-old pub at the corner of Market
Street and Newnham Streets Ely, has been bought by a Northern development company.
Work is to start soon on building a shop and offices. The pub was closed nearly 3
years ago. It was knocked down last year

1947
Ready at a moments notice to help clear floods in the fens, 50 National Fire
Service pumps are standing by in London awaiting the call from Cambridge. Up to
midnight on Saturday last 600 pumps had been engaged for more than 3,000 pumping
hours and 78 million gallons of water have been moved. Meanwhile fen river levels
generally continued to drop today. The flow of flood water from the breach in the
Ouse near Earith has been completely halted.

1922
Startling evidence! Swift 12 h.p. 4-seater combination open touring & all weather
car. Brief specification : 4-cylinder engine, thermo syphon cooling, four speeds
and reverse, detachable steel wheels with spare, dynamo lighting complete with five
lamps, self starter. Fitted with a magnificent all weather body which can be opened
or closed in a few seconds, the sidescreen can be utilised as back screen for
passengers. £595. Sole district agents : Service Motor Co., Hobson Street,
Cambridge (advert)

1897
P.C. Booty of the Cambs Police has been compelled to retire from the force owing to
weak health, a misfortune which is made heavier by the fact that he was within two
months of being entitled to a pension.
He has been stationed in the Newmarket district some years, formerly at Chippenham
and then at Newmarket. In both places he has taken a great interest in gardening
matters. He leaves to to enter upon occupation of the Fountain Hotel, Cambridge

March 27th
1972
Some parts of central Huntingdon could be turned into piles of rubble in five years
unless the pace of
demolition work in clearance areas is changed. The Council's Labour Mayor-elect,
Coun. Vic Howell attacked a move to class an area in Castle Hill as a clearance
area. "In four or five years all we're going to have left is rows of piles of
rubble in this part of town. Lets make no mistake the piles of rubble will lay
there for years" he said

1947
It is thought it may only be a matter of weeks before the fens are drained again.
Where pumping stations are
out of action auxiliary pumps will be installed while other will operate from the
various banks taking water
from the flooded fens back into the rivers. Hundreds of millions of gallons of
water will have to be taken off
the flooded areas. The biggest fen pumps can throw 35,000 gallons a minute.
Amongst offers of help
received at the Catchment Board office is one from Liverpool of an unlimited
quantity of dehydrated
potatoes for use in filling the breaches.

1922
The Borough Chief Constable's annual report of the Cambridge police establishment
for 1921 has now been
issued. The strength of the force during the last year was 84. The total number of
indictable offences was
151. Ten persons were committed for trial. There are 40 members of the Special
Constabulary full equipped with uniform, 90 to whom caps, badges, truncheons and
whistles have been issued, and 80 to whom no equipment has been issued who have
expressed their willingness to serve in an emergency.

c.34.6

1897
Saffron Walden annual horse fair is now taking place. A large business was
transacted on the Market-place this morning. There was a great demand for bus and
tram horses, and prices were good. The pleasure fair
promises to be of the usual attractive character, Thurston's steam horses being
close at hand to take up their position on the Common at noon on Friday

March 28th

1972
Girton college were warned yesterday that withoutt the Cambridge by-passes the road
outside their front gate would be "a hell on earth" within the next 20 years. The
County Surveyor said it was estimated that by 1990 the road would have to carry the
equivalent of more than 50,000 cards a day - well over twice its present load. It
would necessitate the provision of dual three-lane carriageways and this would mean
the demolition of many of the properties fronting the road

1947
On the subject of suitable cropping in the fens the National Farmers Union said
today that provided that
certain of the lands are drained within a month cropping may be possible - but one
must bear in mind that the residue of artificial manure will have been completely
washed away. Should the yield be low it would represent a financial loss and
Government should guarantee them an average seasonal price on an acreage
basis
1922
An interesting report was received showing the position of unemployment in the
district. The main industries in the Cambridge area are agriculture, building,
cement manufacture, fruit preserve manufacture, clothing, weaving and mat-making,
printing, paper manufacturing and engineering. All these except the building trade
have had quiet times during the past year and added their quota to the unemployed
workpeople

1897
Some toys of English make were shown at the last meeting of the Technical Committee
of the Cambridge
Town Council. The toys in question were made by peasants of Wilts and Dorset in the
long winter evenings and as much as 30s. (SHILLINGS) a week is now being earned by
the rustic manufacturers for the toys fetch good prices. We pay Germany £1,000,000
annually for our children's toys, while many English parents have no work to do. It
is high time that efforts were made to divert this million of money into the
pockets
of English people (EDITORIAL)

Looking back by Mike Petty

MONDAY April 7th

1972
Being a loyal supporter of Cambridge United I must say how disgusted I was with
their performance against
Bury. Remember Cambridge United were elected to the Football League because they
were considered worthy of league status, Now after only two seasons we are told the
club are £2,000 in debt and cannot afford new players. But they are able to afford
an assistant manager, trainer, coach etc - men who do not play but cost a lot of
money. A player-assistant manager like Alan Gilzean would attract the crowds. Gates
are 2,000 down, equivalent to £1,300 in a season - more than enough to play the
wages of a few star men
(Letter from P.J.Smith)

1947
Members of the Yugoslav Government Commission were amongst the buyers at the 35th
annual sale of large white pigs held at the sale yard, Histon. The pigs were from
Messrs Chivers & Sons Ltd Histon herd.
Representatives from New Zealand and the Russian Government Commission were also
present, though hey
made no purchases. The total realised was approximately £2,636, 47 gilts averaging
£41.19s.3d each and 11 boars averaging £67.11s.7d each. Mr O.H.Mercer of Harlaston,
Tamworth, Staffs was the buyer of the top-price gilt, Histon Lady Mollington, 367th
at 130 gns. Histon Eastern Boy, the top-price boar was bought by Mr R.V.Boyce of
Lidgate, Newmarket

1922
A proposal of the Cambridge Sewage Disposal Committee to increase the wages of
sewage farm workers was agreed to. Coun. Freyer proposed that the wages of the men
be increased to 38s per week for a 48 hour week with present holidays, no harvest
money, overtime 10d per hour with 1s an hour on Sundays. The men at present receive
34s a week. Coun. Briggs said it was distasteful to sit there and listen to higher
paid men saying 38s a week was enough for a man with a wife and family. It was
actually below the figure that the Parliament had decided was a necessary living
wage for a man with a certain number of children. Could he live on 1s 1d per day
per head
1897
Much amusement was caused at the meeting of the Peterborough Board of Guardians by
the reading of the
following from a labouring man. "Gentelmen. i was told some time back that you wud
git a wife for a respectful man out of the Union (workhouse) if i wud ax you and so
gentelmen I take the liberty. i am nearly 64 years old and work on the land. it is
hard lines for a body to go home and find no body home to cook his food and so
forth. if you have a nice lookin woman in the house as you can spare me for a wife
it would lessen the rates and be a comfort to me. i should like her to be about
thirty or forty and could work well. She must be good looking well up to her work
and I well try and make a gud usband to her" - signed Thomas Smith

TUESDAY April 8th

1972
Mildenhall parochial church council got a shock when they diligently followed their
Archdeacon's advice to
see their church was adequately insured. For the 13th-century church which has a
unique "angel roof" was
valued at a quarter of a million pounds with an annual premium of £620 to pay -
which they cannot afford. The Vicar of Mildenhall, the Rev Frank Bosley said "It
was a tremendous shock to us". He said the diocesan quota was £625 a year and
amounts were paid for cleaning and heating the church as well as to the curate and
vicar. The vicar is still trying to raise £5,000 to complete a £12,000 roof repair
appeal

1947
Sir, I am interested in the letter of H.O. Fleming on the collection of refuse.
The only way to have the old
dustbin removed is to see the dustmen personally and make a suitable arrangement
with them. I have had to do this myself and have found them very civil and helpful.
The dustmen are highly selective and seem to go through the bins carefully, taking
out anything they do not fancy and strewing it about. They also batter the bin out
of shape very quickly and in may case leave it some distance away from where it is
placed outside my premises. Now that we have provided cars for officials they might
perhaps get around a little and see what is being done (letter from
J.R.Partington, Maids Causeway, Cambridge)

1922
The designs of Cambridge town council to provide work for the unemployed by the
construction of a road
between Cherry Hinton and Newmarket road which had the sanction of the authorities
have so far failed owing to what on the face of it appears to be a squabble between
the committees concerned and the owners of property affected. It is high time
something was done as at the present rate of delay - two winters have passed and a
commencement has not yet been made - the unemployment crisis will be over before a
pick or shovel has been set going, Meanwhile approaching £200 a week of ratepayers
money is being spent upon relieving destitution caused by lack of work in Cambridge
- "Table Talk"

1897
At the monthly meeting of the Baldock Urban District Council the Clerk brought up
the matter of the fire
engine station, stating that if they were to give it up, notice must be given by
1st May. Mr Bloom took it that it was settled that the old station should be given
up. The Chairman thought the place would let very well, Baldock being very
destitute of houses. He also pointed out that accommodation would have to be found
for the engines and it would not do to put the new steamer in any kind of place
until the new station was
ready as a damp place would do much injury. It was agreed to try and arrange with
the owners of the old
station for the use of the place for three months longer

WEDNESDAY
April 9th

1972
The last pint was pulled in the "George and Dragon" in Thompson's Lane, Cambridge,
last night. The pub, on the corner of Jesus Green by the river is to come down to
make way for a modern pub-restaurant. Although the pub, more than 100 years old
and owned by St John's college was a Tolly House its successor, to be called The
Dragonfly, will be a joint venture. Undergraduates and many University
organisations have used the George and Dragon, once known as the Spade and Becket.
The outgoing hosts, Jack and Wynn Asplin, take over the Great Northern Hotel by the
Station Road roundabout

1947
Twelve months ago, when landing craft were offered for sale to the public, the 12th
Cambridge Scout Group
bought one, and under the direction of their Scoutmaster, Mr W.A. Mackrow, they set
to work with a will to convert it for troop use. On Saturday the result of their
hard work and skill - a trim looking and extremely comfortable seaworthy craft was
named the "Adventurer". Founder of the troop in 1911, its first Scoutmaster - and a
staunch supporter ever since - Mr J. Murrish performed the ceremony, which took
place at Peterhouse boat yard. In just under twelve months the group have
transformed the hull and converted it into its present form, complete with bridge,
containing full navigation equipment and remote engine controls etc. It has a ward
room which sleeps 12, and a galley which would delight the heart of many a
housewife.

1922
I have never had any sympathy with the vicar of Thaxted in his determination to fly
the revolutionary flags in his parish church, nor with the Cambridge undergraduates
and others who conceived it their duty to pay frequent visits to the Essex village
to tear down them down. Says the Vicar of Thaxted : "The battle of the flags would
be more diverting if the opposition would put up some kind of intellectual fight
but it is hardly possible to answer such arguments as liar, lunatic, pig,
blasphemer, devil, even if the gentlemen who used them would remember to give their
address. The flags have always been replaced within 24 hours of every raid and are
still prominent in Thaxted church

1897
After the lapse of close upon a month the committee appointed to carry out the
celebration of the Great
Jubilee (of Queen Victoria) in Cambridge have definitely decided upon a single
scheme. The course adopted has the effect of putting out of court our scheme for
the establishment of a system of private and swimming baths as a Jubilee
undertaking. But considering the remarkable unanimity of opinion on the subject we
feel sure that the project will be only temporarily waived. Indeed having regard to
the the absolute necessity in the town we pledge ourselves to revive the matter at
the first convenient opportunity. Very little difficulty would be experienced in
floating a company to carry out a scheme so universally deemed desirable.
(Editorial)

THURSDAY April 10th

1972
Hundreds of seagulls are leaving their mark on Cherry Hinton. But the people who
live there are not impressed nd have asked Cambridge councillors to start a clean-
up campaign in the area. The seagulls live on the refuse tip at Coldham's Lane
where the pickings are good. But they do not confine their activities to the waste
ground and have started to make themselves felt on the residents. And this has
upset the housewives who have told the councillors that they prefer their white
washing to stay that way. Some residents have referred these problems dropped on
them unexpectedly from a the heights to the councils Conservative leader, Ald
Stanley Bowles. Today he admitted "I just don't know what we can do about the
problem. Perhaps we should issue the seagulls with nappies"

1947
Flood clearance pumping is now being done by individual farmers in many places in
the fen district. Some 25 small pumps have been issued from the Ministry of
Agriculture and Fisheries pump depot at Warboys. The depot maintains a "flying
squad" which goes out day or night should any of the pumps cease because of need
for service. Since the depot came into being at the former R.A.F. Pathfinder
airfield is had dealt with between 120 and 130 units. The depot started from
scratch with just three bare buildings of the deserted airfield. It is now a
complete unit with canteen, and administrative office, petrol supplies and even
facilities for doing a certain amount of servicing of motor vehicles if necessary.
No sooner had it opened than a stream of lorries bringing pumps, equipment and what
one an described as "an odd assortment of pipes" began to arrive from all over
England

1922
The Army hut which is to serve as a club house for members of the Newmarket branch
of the British Legion
was formally opened by Earl Codogan. The entrance door opens on the canteen, a very
important part of the
economy of any club. On the left had side of the bar are the reading and card
rooms, comfortably furnished
and warmed by toves. On the right of the bar is the billiard room with one full-
sized table, Mr J. Jarvis has given a silver cup to be played for by the members.
The ground is the propoerty of the Jockey Club who have kindly let it to the Legion
at a peppercorn rent of £1 a year

1897
In Cherryhinton-road, Cambridge, and in close proximity to the Cattle Market, Mr
Henry Day has erected a new flour mill. The building is compact, the three floors
are occupied by a most interesting system of machinery. Needless to say the plant
is of the most up-to-date character. It has been fitted to produce one sack per
hour. Mr Day expressed his confidence that he had some of the very best wheat
obtainable. He enters the open market with every determination to succeed

FRIDAY April 11th

1972
Free milk and hang the consequences. That was the decision reached by Haverhill
Urban Council last night
after four months of soul-searching on the free school milk issue. Government
legislation last year stopped
free milk in schools for children over seven. Despite pleas to wait for a High
Court ruling members voted to
give milk to seven and eight-year-olds. The council's clerk asked members to await
the High Court verdict on the legality of councils paying for milk themselves, any
councillor who voted against a motion that was
subsequently found to be illegal was not liable to be surcharged as a result of the
decision. Coun. Hartley
replied "We may be a poor authority in terms of money but we are rich in our
children"

1947
The opinion that the people of St Ives had suffered for a fortnight unnecessarily
from water in their town and
houses that had nothing to do with the river was expressed a meeting of St Ives
Borough Council. Mr T.H.Burgess said "I consider the river had some part to do with
the water in the town but not quite so big a part as we would like to think". The
original flush of water had been from land drainage due to the lack of ditches and
the fact that existing ones were full of snow. The river at that time was very low.
He said the reason why they were left with drainage water was because they were
dealing with an antiquated sewerage system. The sewer itself had been covered with
walls, fences and trees

1922
At the Old Bailey on Saturday Ernest Terah Hooley was found guilt of conspiracy and
other charges in
connection with the promotion of the Jubilee Cotton Mills ltd. Passing sentence the
Common Serjeant said
that those who chose to dabble in company promotions must be taught that the only
policy for the promotion
of companies was to be honest and straightforward. The "Daily Telegraph" in a long
leading article on "The
Hooley Drama" describes his amazing career and recalls the time when his name was
in everyone's mouth. "The man with the foxy face, who played the role of City
supermagnate in loud country tweeds. He was High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire and
according to his own account, he was ready to pay 50,000 for a baronetcy."

1897
The Newmarket Gas Company have been holding an interesting exhibition of gas
appliances, both for
cooking and lighting, including ranges of various patterns and sizes, an Otto gas
engine, and the latest patents in chandeliers, brackets, burners, globes and
shades, and other methods of improving the light given
by gas. The variety and adaptability of the ranges and kindred appliances shown
convey the impression that gas will be the chief cooking agent in the near future.
The ranges shown may be bought or hired from the Newmarket Gas Co.

Looking back by Mike Petty

MONDAY
April 14th

1972
The Green Man at Grantchester calls itself proudly, if obscurely, a Bilstafayre
Restaurant and expresses the
hope on a little printed card that its proporietors have created the right
atmosphere for you to enjoy. On a
Saturday evening the atmosphere is controlled more definitely by the patrons and
can get pretty thick. The
clientele is on the trendy side - leather thongs and see-through dresses. There is
a good selection of meats
which you debate in the bar over a sherry or gin and tonic (39p). We chose Prawn
cocktail (35p), Entrecote
steak au poivre (1.20) with tossed salad (15p). The trifle (20p) was distinctly dry
and a concoction of pears and meringue (20p) was rather ordinary. At 6.75 for two
it is not cheap

1947
The question of a site for a village college at Swavesey was referred back to the
General Purposes sub-committee (of the County Council). Subject to the consent of
the Ministry 25 to 30 acres of the Manor Farm,
Swavesey will be purchased as a site (the Manor House and farm buildings to be
excluded from the sale). Coun. Johnson pointed out that the land did flood
occasionally, at the same time he did not think they would find a better site.

1922
Mr William Chapman, late of the Swiss Laundry and secretary of the Free Church,
Cherry Hinton Road
is touring in New Zealand. There is plenty of room in New Zealand for men & women
who want to work and New Zealand wants them but has no use for undesirables,
grumblers and the like. Wages are higher than at home, the cost of living is less
and a man has more freedom: there are very few poor people. It is not his intention
to persuade anybody who is in work but to help those who are unemployed by pointing
out the chances of a decent living in New Zealand

1897
None enjoy the ecstasy of health so much as those who have just emerged from the
pain and
discomfort of a serious illness. It is a notorious fact in the neighbourhood of
Fitzroy Street, Cambridge, that Mr George Stokes, confectioner, had for the past
five years been unable to follow his business in consequence of the breakdown of
his health. He then related how he came to read in "Lloyds Newspaper" how Dr
Williams' Pink Pills for Pale People had worked marvellous cures. "I got the first
box of Dr
Williams Pink Pills on the 5th of February. After taking the first three pills I
began to sleep better, I can now move my neck, limbs and joints without pain except
my knees. Certainly the change has been marvellous since I took Dr Williams' Pink
Pills"

TUESDAY
April 15th

1972
Women's Lib is fighting a losing battle. Though they are trumpeting the call for
greater freedom for women, modern pressures are making it more difficult for women
to break free from domestic chores. So said Dr Edward Leach, social anthropologist
at King's College, Cambridge. With more use of contraceptives families could be
created at will. This meant the old way of having large families spread over the
years with older daughters helping at home with the babies was disappearing.
"Daughters are now more in the nature of
parasites. They cannot really help at home. Again, the modern woman is more tied to
he home" said Dr Leach

1947
An event of unusual interest took place on Sunday night when the congregation of St
Andrew-the-Great held their ordinary evening service in the chapel of Christ's
college. The organ of St Andrew's church has been out of action since melted snow
came through the roof some weeks ago. As the estimated cost of repairs lies between
£100- £200 and will take some months to effect, the congregation was grateful for
this opportunity for a service accompanied by an organ and the College chapel was
crammed from end to end

1922
Good Friday was quite the warmest day we have enjoyed this year. The call of the
road held the strongest appeal and there was a continuous procession of motors,
motor cycles and push bikes going out of Cambridge and going in. Country workers
came into town in a steady stream and town workers seemed equally eager to invade
the countryside. In Cambridge Parker's Piece had its traditional skipping devotees,
and the first ice cream barrow of the year was in attendance in company with sweet
sellers and a barrow with balloons, ticklers and paper toys without which no public
holiday would be complete

1897
A memorial from certain inhabitants of the Cambridge in Favour of covering the
Market Hill with a permanent covering of iron and glass was read by the Town Clerk.
Coun Nichols thought the state of their present market was a disgrace to
civilisation. They were paying at least £400 a year for putting up and taking down
those wretched wooden structures and the cloths that covered them were of no use
whatever. Mr F. Morley did not believe in the Corporation entering into competition
with the shopkeepers of the town and driving the trade into the hand of people who
paid no rates. Mr Campkin felt the question of a covered market elsewhere was too
serious a matter for them to consider for many years to come. (The council voted
against the proposal)

WEDNESDAY

April 16th
1972
Mr Alexander Dale, of The Old House, Histon, the noted collector of macabre
historical relics, has died. He was 63. His "black museum" contained the last
gallows ever used in public execution at Cambridge, assorted
bloodstained wrist crushers and torture instruments from the Bastille. Most of the
exhibits were sold at public auctions in Cambridge during 1970 when Dr Dale wanted
the space at his home which the museum was occupying

1947
Hundreds of men and women now starting on teaching Courses at the Emergency
Training Colleges being opened all over the country will emerge fully qualified to
take posts in the schools waiting so anxiously for them. One of these colleges was
opened in the grounds of Wimpole Park. Used during the war as an American Red Cross
Hospital the buildings have been adapted for the purpose and now house 260 students
drawn from all over the country. All men, and mainly in their late twenties they
will share a communal existence and all sorts of clubs and societies will be
started for their leisure hours.

1922
The wartime procedure of dispensing with the chaperon is no longer tolerated in
"polite society". For the chaperon times have altered considerably in the past
eight years and at balls instead of sitting in state up a dais, bored to
extinction, she takes her place among the dancers and combines with her duties as
guardian pleasurable exercise. Owing to heavy taxation and general increased
expenditure many women bearing
titles and possessed of ancestral homes are glad to become professional chaperons

1897
A meeting of dog fanciers has been held to form a society for the purpose of
holding an annual dog show at
Cambridge. They had had dog shows here on previous occasions on rather a large
scale and it was a question
for consideration as to the advisability of giving so much prize-mony as
previously. If they gave smaller money and charged proportionate entrance fees they
would get more entires, and a man usually would not enter unless he was pretty sure
of getting money.

THURSDAY

April 17th

1972
In due course all Cambridge colleges will be co-residential, according to a senior
University tutor. So
far Churchill, Kings and Clare have agreed to open their doors to women but there
was little likelihood of any more colleges following suit at present. A student
from St Catharine's college said "They would never think of it at my college. The
reason is basically because we have a large proportion of the public school type on
the governing body and they feel their role is to promote the college in the public
school image"

1947
Numerous Cambridge bankmen lost all interest in interest last night. The occasion
was the post-war revival of Barclays Bank ball, always one of the outstanding
features of pre-war Cambridge. The Large room of the
Guildhall had undergone one of its most attractive transformations. A special floor
gave added pleasure to the dancing, though the beautiful tempo of Bunny May's
broadcasting band would have made it possible to dance on almost any surface. It
was the kind of music that slashes the bar profits, because it positively enticed
you to dance

1922
A well-known jeweller who has a shop not a hundred miles from the Post Office
(Cambridge) recently had the misfortune to lose a black cat. The family searched
high and low at night for the missing pet, and inquiries were made at the Police
Station but without avail. Next morning, when the jeweller went to unlock the safe,
out jumped pussy, apparently none the worse for her fourteen hours incarceration in
the small, and certainly airtight, chest

1897
The village of Stoke by Clare was quite gay with bunting when Lord and Lady Loch
arrived to take up their
residence at the college, which estate has been lately purchased by his Lordship.
The bells rang out a merry
peal, and the school children, who had been drawn up in a line at the park entrance
lustily cheered as the
carriage drove through. A triumphal arch was erected at the entrance to the College
grounds.

FRIDAY

APRIL 18TH
1972

The Conservative chairman of the Cambridgeshire Planning Committee, Tony Cornell,

has told the Government that local councils should be allowed to buy land
compulsorily unless land prices come down quickly. The cheapest houses in Cambridge
and county will cost £9,000. And only one fifth of the young couples who want their
own home will be able to afford one. What land is coming on the market now is
changing hands at £30,000 - £40,000 an acre and rising

1947
A conference to discuss water problems and their solutions heard recommendations as
to the water supply
to the parishes of Longstowe, Babraham, Duxford etc. Merits of a scheme for a
supply of water to those
parishes without a piped supply were discussed. The main point at issue was whether
the existing source at
Croydon should be maintained and developed. One hundred and twenty thousand gallons
of water per day were wasted during the recent severe weather . Owing to the snow
and floods it was difficult to account for the losses. Eventually however they were
found to be due to burst pipes at Bassingbourn airfield

1922
Following the example of last year the weather smiled on Good Friday, and wept
spasmodically for the rest of the holiday. On Saturday holiday-makers were treated
to a gale and on Sunday and Monday to typical April weather. There was rain, hail,
sleet, wind, sunshine and more rain; the only thing that was lacking was fog. It
was essentially an indoor holiday and there was hardly enough indoor amusements to
go around. A few hardy souls worked on their allotments, but when a man is an
enthusiastic allotmenteer, nothing short of an earthquake will stop him from
digging

1897
At Cambridge Easter Sunday was celebrated in all the churches. Congrgations were
very large and most of the places of worship were tastefully decorated, white
flowers largely predominating. On Monday a goodly
number of people followed the Volunteers in their march to Madingley, others
watched the Boys Brigade movements on the University Range. Amusements were
provided by the sports on Fenners and the circus in the afternoon

MONDAY
April 21st

1972
The Dorothy in Cambridge has been sold. A new role for the city's best-known
catering and dancing centre has not been decided by the new owners, but may
include a "quality" department store. The Dorothy's present owners, G.P. Hawkings
ltd said that parking restrictions have hit the firm's business. The Dorothy
contains a supermarket, restaurant, large ballroom and other rooms used by many
organisations for official functions

1947
Simplicity and speed is the key-note in the Cambridge Borough Council's Birdwood
Road building site, when 158 permanent concrete houses are being erected.
Machinery used in the work of construction - like cranes, cement-

1922
Impressive scenes were witnessed at the funeral of an Indian undergraduate. The
funeral was carried out
according to the Mohammedan ritual, and the interment was at St Giles' cemetery,
Huntingdon Road, Cambridge. The coffin was conveyed in a a hearse and was followed
on foot by over 50 Indian undergraduates. Arrived at the cemetery the coffin was
placed on the lawn at the entrance. Then several of the mourners, removing their
shoes, conducted a short form of service, after which the coffin and mourners were
photographed by an Indian student. The body was carried to the graveside and
lowered by a party of the mourners. Nobody who was not directly concerned with the
ceremony was allowed within 25 yards of the grave
1897
A resident in Cambridge has suggested that a new feature in the water carnival
which is to be part of
the celebration of her Majesty's Great Jubilee in Cambridge, a grand naval
engagement should be fought on
the river Cam. The engagement might include the explosion of mines, the firing of
guns from ironclads
and torpedo boats, and at dusk the illumination of the whole fleet and the use of
search lights. Such an
affair would undoubtedly attract many sightseers and the illumination of the fleet
should prove very
effective

TUESDAY
April 22nd

1972
Shopping in Cambridge in the lunch hour is becoming a nightmare. Many small local
shops have been squeezed out of business. At the same time 'modernisation' and
self-service hare becoming the rule almost everywhere for ordinary frequently-
bought items. The attitude seems to be 'If we have got it, and you can find it, and
you don't mind queuing to pay for it, you can buy it'. Many items have to be
weighed and measured in one place and paid for in another. Whose time is being
saved? - letter from Mrs A. Hull

1947
The Cambridge sporting fraternity has lost one of its most colourful characters by
the death of Mr Charlie
Driver. His aquatic achievements are legion and more than 90 people owe their lives
to his life-saving prowess in the water. Among many tangible reminders of this
contributions to the art of life-saving is a silver cigarette case presented to him
as long ago as 1908 on behalf of readers of the Cambridge Daily News in recognition
of his skill and promptitude in saving 31 lives from drowning at the Town Bathing
Place. He
retired after 34 years of service as custodian of the ton bathing sheds on Sheep's
Green, only to come back
again and carry on during the war years. Putting the clock back some 60 years one
recalls how, at the old
swimming sports at the Old Ladder on Sheep's Green, he made us envy his skill in
bringing to the surface the largest number of plates cast in the river, to win the
prize for that event

1922
The Whippet meeting arranged by the Cambridge Whippet Racing Club was held in the
club's straight running ground, Arbury Road, Cambridge, when a good crowd of
spectators witnessed some very decent running. The weather conditions were far from
ideal for dog racing, and undoubtedly were responsible for some indifferent running

1897
Last evening a concert, followed by a Cinderella dance, was given in the Guildhall
by the band of the 3rd
(Cambs) Volunteer Battalion, the Suffolk Regiment, and was a pronounced success
from a musical, if not from a financial point of view. A feature of the evening was
a descriptive fantasie, rendered by the band with vocal accompaniment entitled "A
voyage in a troopship". A decided "hit" was made by Mr George Beresford, a society
clown, gifted with unlimited power of facial expression, who gave what was
described as a drawing room entertainment entitled "People we meet about the town"
WEDNESDAY

April 23rd
1972
The traffic lights at the Trumpington Road – Lensfield Road -Fen Causeway junction
in Cambridge are expected to be working again this weekend. Some new lights control
equipment which went wrong before it was installed last week has been returned from
the makers. The City council had intended to install the equipment in a bid to cut
delays at the junction. Traffic experts consider that the system which was working
until last week gave preference to "minority groups" and caused hold-ups for most
other road users. There had been no reports of accidents so far on the corner but
the City Surveyor, Geoffrey Cresswell, feared that motorists might get used having
no lights at the junction and be tempted to take chances

1947
Among the Big Tops, Bertram Mills' tenting-circus is surely the top. It is a
circus-de-luxe. To begin with
every one of the 3,500 seats has a back to it and you can see in comfort. And as
the animals are the backbone
of the circus let us take a look at the Bertram Mills collection. First the horses
- horses clever, horses
dignified, horses graceful and all beautiful. Less graceful, but with their own
beauty of their quiet gray
colour were the six performing elephants, everyone a lady - but not lady-like
enough to stifle the yawn with
which they sat up after lying down to "sleep" to the strains of dreamy music.
Strength was combined with
grace in the Tovarisch Troupe and finally of course, there were the clowns, a merry
nonsensical crew

1922
Every years sees an increase in the number of people killed and injured on the
roads, and the proposed
abolition of the speed limit for private cars will not lessen the dangers of the
highways. Although the speed limit of 20 miles an hour is habitually disregarded,
it has some effect as a check on reckless driving, which will disappear when the
evidence of the stopwatch can be ignored. It is the hired driver who has to suffer
the penalties, but not infrequently the real offender is the owner of the car
sitting inside. The majority of road motor accidents are due to excessive speed and
it will be purely a matter of opinion what is excessive speed - Table Talk

1897
The circular just issued by the Chancellor of the University dispels the assumption
that the resources of
that wealthy seat of learning suffice to meet all demands made upon it. Cambridge
people will have no difficulty in calling to their recollection instances of
college incomes dwindling away to almost vanishing point through agricultural
depression. Downing is a sorrowful case in point, the depleted money chest of which
establishment it is sought to rehabilitate by cutting up a fine estate for building
purposes

THURSDAY
April 24th

1972
Two middle-aged women who jumped from a first-floor window into the Garden House
hotel's back gardens to escape the fire were later found by a Cambridge milkman
wandering along Fen Causeway in their nightclothes. A friend said "The women looked
like refugees with smoke-blackened hands and faces. They had walked across Coe Fen.
The milkman stopped his float and asked if he could help them". Miss Sarah Wilhelm
from Ohio said she was woken by a burning smell. She saw the room starting to fill
up with smoke and saw the paint on the inside of the door turning brown. She jumped
from the window and the other lady followed

1947
Visitors to Bertram Mills Circus this week watching the daring acts carried out in
a brilliant array of
colourful costumes,, might be surprised to hear that as many as a thousand costumes
and uniforms are used in the show. I had a talk with the wardrobe mistress, Miss
Wilmer, and learnt that she designs them herself, cuts, fits and makes them. Like
everybody else Bertram Mills Circus have their coupon problems - especially when
costumes need replacing every year. They have two allocations by the Board of Trade
but have to account for every coupon they spend and give an account of the number
of yards used in each garment

1922
We regret to announce that Lord Leopold Mountbatten, first cousin of the King, died
at Kensington Palace on Sunday morning. Lord Leopold's schooldays at Wellington
College were frequently interrupted by ill
health, and his undergraduate career at Magdalene College, Cambridge, was marred by
one severe illness.
His sister, who had only then (1909) recently gone to Spain as a bride, hurried
home to be beside him. An
amusing story is told of one of her visits to him at Cambridge. He was seeing her
off from the railway
station, when an undergraduate from another college went up to him and said, "Jolly
nice-loooking girl that
of yours; who is she?" "Oh, no one in particular", the Prince replied; "only my
sister, the Queen of Spain"

1897
At the Crown Hotel, Royston, Messrs Nash Son and Rowley offered for sale building
land, situate in and near to Queen's-road, Royston, cut up into 23 lots, of 25 foot
frontage, some of it fronting on Queen's-road, and the rest on a new roadway to be
called Victoria-place. There was a large company present and a fair demand for the
most eligible plots. Most lots sold for £30 each. At the same time some property at
Sandon House and shop and four cottages were sold to Mr Harold Clark for £300

FRIDAY

April 25th
1972
The planning go-ahead has been given for the re-development of the old Chivers
warehouse site in George
Street, Huntingdon. It is the largest single industrial site in the town. The
agents revealed it was hoped to
attract one major industrial concern to take over the entire six and a half acre
site. The offices to be
housed in a modern block will front George Street and will be set back from the
road in line with the present
post office and alms houses. The property was sold at the beginning of the year for
an undisclosed five-
figure sum and the re-development is eventually expected to generate many job
opportunities in the town
1947
Next Thursday will see the opening of recruiting for the new Territorial Army. For
a great many years our
local voluntary commitments were more or less confined to the Cambridgeshire
Regiment. The future however, holds out something much greater in scope and more
varied. The total numbers to be recruited will be three times as many as in pre-war
days. It is idle to suppose we do not regret the passing of our own Infantry
regiment but the name and the traditions of the "Cambridgeshires" will live on in
the 629 L.A.A.
Regiment R.A. So will the spirit of our two war-time Sapper Companies live on in
the 121 Field Engineer Regiment, while the General Hospital will have added a
second Unit in the form of a Field Ambulance.

1922
The Cambridge Union Society debated the motion that Cambridge life is superficial
and its traditions are to be deplored. Mr L.P.Bonnett (St Catharine's) denounced
the air of compulsory boredom which characterised the average undergraduate. He
thought it was quite time someone made a protest about the system of social
intercourse, the whole round of social activity was so circumscribed by tradition
it was possible to talk to a man for hours without really saying anything. He
deplored the attitude of superior aloofness so prevalent in Cambridge and the
conviction that it was not good form to be enthusiastic about anything.

1897
The officers of the 3rd (Cambs) Volunteer Battalion Suffolk Regiment has issued an
appeal for subscriptions to enable them to build a new armoury. The present
headquarters in Corn Exchange-street are totally inadequate for the requirements of
the corps. The present is a good year for patriotic effort. The Volunteer Force is
no longer on its trial; it occupies an important place in the scheme of military
defences; and we have much pleasure in commending the movement just initiated to
the general consideration of the public -Editorial

MONDAY

April 28th

1972
Full central heating is to be installed after all in 44 family homes to be build as
part of a £332,000 development in Brooks Road, Cambridge.The Housing Committee had
earlier decided on only part central heating to cut costs. Coun David Keate said
"Let us pitch our standards a little bit ahead for once and prepare for the future
when all houses which do not have full central heating will almost certainly have
to be altered to install it"

1947
Field-Marshall Hermann Goering's Super-Mercedes bullet-proof car is going to help
the Mayor's Fen
Flood Relief Fund in Cambridge. It will be exhibited at Messrs King & Harper's
Bridge Street garage. The car, captured by the British Army, weighs five tons with
an engine roughly four times bigger than the average 8 h.p. one. The engine is
equivalent in volume to that of the average-size bus

1922
A service of commemoration for the members of the college who fell in the war was
held in the Chapel
of Jesus College. Immediately after the service the memorial tablet was dedicated
by the Lord Bishop of Ely. After a short service, the Master, amid a silence so
intense that it could almost be felt, read the names inscribed on the memorial. It
was an impressive scene - the clergy and choir in their surplices, row after row of
gowned undergraduates, many of whom had also served, and a sprinkling of visitors
from the outside world, all paying silent tribute to the 148 names read by the
Master

1897
On Monday evening a curious accident befel a horse and cart, the property of Mr
Saint, builder. The
vehicle was being loaded with earth on the site of the St Barnabas' Institute, the
foundations of which are being dug. The sides of a trench collapsed, overturning
the horse and cart, which rolled bodily into the excavations. After some delay the
horse was hauled out of the pit by means of ropes, apparently little the worse for
its strange adventure

TUESDAY

April 29th
1972
Common Market lorry drivers on a trans-European trip to Britain would probably
bring their girlfriends along with them, the Cambridge By-pass inquiry heard
yesterday. And if their route passed close to the famous city of Cambridge they
would want to call in and see the sights, said the chairman of Hardwick Parish
Council. The inquiry now holds the record for the longest public inquiry into a
road scheme ever held in Britain. On Tuesday it will be 11 weeks since it began.

1947
That a secondary school is incapable of teaching its pupils a proper sense of right
and wrong was the view of Mr E.C. Emery, speaking at a ceremony at St Michael's
church, Cambridge. "Apparently religion is going out; the rising generation have
no sense of right and wrong". He referred to the present crime wave as
"appalling". Probation officers and approved schools were over-worked. "I do not
believe the crime wave is due to the war", he went on, "but due to the absence of
religious teaching"

1922
Chesterton Rural District Council considered the state of the Cherryhinton-
Teversham-road. Mr Francis urged the need for improvement to the road, pointing out
that the work would absorb the unemployed, and that the improvement was needed by
the Teversham people. The improvement was opposed on the ground that the road was
but a by-road and that it would cost about £2,500 which could be used to better
advantage on the main roads

1897
A meeting was called at Haverhill to ascertain whether any steps should be taken to
celebrate the jubilee of her Majesty, Queen Victoria. Mr W.B. Gurteen, who was
loudly cheered on rising said he was now in a position to offer to the Urban
District Council the 12 acres of ground known as Chain Pieces for a recreation
ground. Mr Thomas Jarvis pointed out that if they accepted the gift at once, the
laying out of the ground would have to come out of the rates and he was not sure
that was the wish of the meeting.

WEDNESDAY

April 29th

1972
Altogether 715 people completed the 28-mile Cambridge Oxfam Walk on Saturday ...
including one 79-year-old, Dr A.E. Clark-Kennedy, A Fellow ofCorpus Christi
College. He has walked in several Oxfam walks and has always completed the course.

1947
For over five hours the pros and cons of a proposal to erect a greyhound and sports
stadium at Cherry Hinton were argued at a local inquiry into an appeal against the
Borough Council's refusal of an application by Messrs Bartlett, Dash and Evans. The
intention was to establish a handsome stadium, which would become a sports centre
for the Eastern Counties. A promoter said Cambridge was the centre of by far the
largest area n
England without a greyhound track. The borough surveyor said the whole idea of the
town planning scheme was to mke Cherry Hinton a self-contained village comunity. He
considered it highly important that the five mile green belt should remain
inviolate. The Minister's decision might be expected in five or six weeks

1922
At the Grand Council of the Red Cross Society and St John Ambulance Association Mrs
Hartree raised
the question of the police ambulance, and said she understood that the police
ambulance was to be kept in the town, and that the Red Cross Ambulance should be
used for long distances. However it was seen that the Police ambulance had gone on
long distances - Ipswich and Norwich. Mrs Pryor said she knew the ambulance had
been used extensively at the Evelyn Nursing Home. The Chief Constable said that the
objection to the Red Cross Ambulance was that it was not heated, but they had very
quietly informed him that it was heated and the ambulance had been much improved
lately

1897
At Cambridge County Court Alfred Whitmee, circus proprietor said he visited
Shelford with his circus in the autumn of 1896. On the Monday it was a rough day
and he could not get the tent up. The month of October was an unfortunate one for
him. He owed 30s.(shillings) at Histon and about 7s at Trumpington. He had
arranged to start for Sawston but was told he could not take anything away until
£2.0.6 was paid for lodging his horses.

THURSDAY

May 1st
1972
The first proper May Day march in Cambridge for many years collected together most
of the action and pressure groups in the city on what is traditionally the workers
day worldwide. As they marched through the city streets in the thick of the
lunchtime crowds, passers-by tried to grab posters that were being carried. Amongst
the marchers were the Anti-Interment League, Women's Lib, the Anti-Common Market
Action Commiteee, the National Federation of Old Age Pensioners Association, who
had to have a breather in the
middle of the march, the Cambridge Tenants' Association and the Association of
Teachers in Technical Institutions

1947
Cambridgeshire County Council's proposal to extend its boundaries by including the
southern part of
the counties of Huntingdon Isle of Ely will not be adopted by the Local Government
Boundary Commission. Cambridge Borough's application for an extension ofboundaries
is to be investigated, apart from the
proposal for County Borough status, which is already under consideration.

1922
The new ground of the Cambridge Town Football Club, situate to the north of the
junction of Milton-road and Victoria-road was formally opened by the Mayor of
Cambridge on Saturday, after which the Town played their Southern Amateur League
return fixture with Merton, and started their record n the new ground with a
satisfactory victory by three goals to none. The Mayor said that just after the war
he was approached to act as trustee of a fund for purchasing a ground for the Town
F.C. Without a suitable ground it was
impossible to carry on for any length of time. He hoped the club would be
successful, because it owed the bank something like £1,100 - but he was told a man
thinking of big things was not a successful man of business unless he owed
aconsiderable sum to the bank

1897
May Day is the name of a holiday that calls up all sorts of pretty rustic
associations. In Cambridge the first day of the merry month is a most unromantic
reality. A few small children straggle about the streets with more or less
pretentious garlands and a Jack-in-the-Green may occasionally be caught sight of,
but beyond this May Day in Cambridge is a memory of the past. In connection with
Hobson-street chapel there was a "May morning breakfast" at which there was a large
attendance. The room was decorated with flowers and the gathering was a most
enjoyable one.

FRIDAY
1972
May 2nd
Stepping through the doors of the Rock Hotel, Cambridge last night was like
stepping back in time. Teddy boys were propping up the bar, Jerry Lee Lewis was
rock'n'rolling on the turntable and other teds were jiving around the floor. But
these were not the teds who slashed cinema seats and slouched around in the late
50's. The velvet drapes were there along with drainpipe trousers, bootlace ties,
frilly shirts and hair cream. But the years had mellowed the people wearing them.
The occasion was the first meeting of the Cambridge Rock'n'Roll Club. One ted said
"It's nice to remember the good old days"

1947
Alderman Dr Wood, chairman of Cambridge Housing Committee said "We are in an
extremely difficult
situation. We have got perhaps a hundred and fifty cases where we have a man
working in Cambridge with his wife and family elsewhere - cases where after six
years of separation during the war the family and the father are still separated".
It appeared that it is gong to take ten to twelve years at the present rate to find
accommodation for all wanting it. Coun Cutting said "I think we will have a very
ugly situation before us next winter. I cannot imagine that those who suffered and
fought are going to endure this for many more months"

1922
The question of rear lights for bicycles came up for discussion at the meeting of
the Cambs. County Council. Councillor A.R. Fordham thought rear lights were
exceedingly troublesome and difficult things, for it was not possible to see if
they were alight or not. Councillor Mapey : I would like to suggest that lamps be
affixed to some part of the anatomy of horses and cattle, and that people should be
forbidden to ride at
all. (Laughter)

1897
On Saturday night a stack was ignited near Caxton School. Ten minutes later a great
blaze arose
amongst the farm buildings at the rear of the farmhouse occupied by Mr James Paine.
In about 30
minutes all the outbuildings had been destroyed. Then cries of "Fire" were heard
from the centre
of the village and a tongue of flame shot up at the back of the Cross Keys public-
house. The villagers were now panic-stricken. Then three cottages near fell in.
Only last October over a dozen houses and cottages were burnt down in the village

Looking Back by Mike Petty

MONDAY
5th May
1972
Sainsbury's "edge of town" shopping scheme for Coldham's Lane has been rejected by
Cambridge
City Council's Planning Committee because it does not conform with their policy.
The "edge of town"
policy would have been fully exploited in Cambridge for the first time. The
Planning Committee refused the scheme because the land is zoned for industrial use.

1947
A series of questions on the demolition of air raid shelters was answered by the
Town Clerk at the Cambridge Borough Council meeting. He said the number of
underground and surface air raid shelters remaining to be demolished was 42. The
number of shelters already demolished was 175 12-person units and 44 20-person
units and 44 50-person units and a single trench for 300 people. The work on the
shelters should be completed in about eight weeks. Other Civil Defence structures
waiting demolition were 18 wardens posts, 23 50-person school surface shelters, 95
48-person underground school shelters and 26 static water tanks.

1922
Fully described as "Ely's Own Memorial to Her Own Fallen Heroes" - the shrine
containing the Rolls of Honour of 224 men of the Ely Urban District who paid the
great price in the war – was unveiled on Sunday afternoon in the presence of an
attendance numbering several thousands. By a happy choice the shrine is located on
the Market-hill, in the heart of the city, and on the spot made sacred by its
association with a temporary wooden shrine, which was placed there during the war

1897
While the members of the University Senate are engaged in a fierce contest to
decide whether women shall be admitted to the titles of degrees, the undergraduates
have given most emphatic expressions to their opinion. A committee was formed and
within six days over 2,100 signatures (the total number of undergraduates and
Bachelors is only 2.840) have been sent to a memorial expressing the conviction
that the giving of degrees to women would prove injurious to the position and
efficiency of the University as a
University for men

TUESDAY

May 6th

1972
New plans for office block development on the corner of Bridge Street and Round
Church Street, Cambridge, are likely to be submitted soon, said developers, the
Scottish Mutural Assurance
Society. The Department of the Environment's refusal of the previous plans was
announced
yesterday, after a seven-year wrangle between developers, planners, and
preservationists which culminated in a public inquiry last December. One of the
crucial points of the first scheme was the future of number 10 Bridge Street on the
corner which was to have been demolished. Objectors feared this would enable city
planners to push back the building line in Round Church Street and set a radical
precedent that would ruin
the whole street

1947
A period piece, the period of which the members of the Library Committee do not
particularly appreciate, was how the present high domed roof of Mill Road branch
library was described when a resolution authorising the provision of a new false
ceiling was criticised at Cambridge town council meeting. Ald E.S.Peck said "When I
was chairman I thought it was rather a charming building architecturally and I
think it would be entirely spoilt if they put a new ceiling in.

1922
My readers will learn with great regret that Brookland-avenue (Cambridge) with its
countless romantic associations appears to be fore-doomed to destruction. The
beautiful trees which provide the leafy tunnel which for generations has been so
much admired are elms, and elms have an unpleasant habit of dismembering themselves
with age . A good many of the trees must come down at once, as they are in such a
decayed state to be liable to split and fall without warning.

1897
An inquiry concerning the recent fatal accident was held at the Brickmaker's Arms,
Needingworth. Robert Marriott, labourer in the employ of Messrs Saint at their
brick-kilns at Needingworth said he was working at the pug mill, taking the clay
and throwing it on to the table. Deceased had to put those lumps of clay into the
brick moulding machine. The moulding machine was in motion and deceased got his
left foot caught in the machine. His right leg and thigh were torn off.

WEDNESDAY

May 7th
1972
Attempting suicide is becoming an epidemic disease and soon there won't be many
sane people left, the Professor of Medicine at Cambridge University said last
night. "The pattern of illness has changed practically over the last 10 years
through the strain and pressure of life. In 20 years time there won't be very any
sane people around", he said. "It is the expansion of affluence which is getting to
the point where it
is interfering with the human brain". A man often went on strike not because he
wanted more money but because other people were doing better than he was

1947
Wives and mothers of American Service men who lost their lives in the war are now
coming to Cambridge in small numbers on a pilgrimage to Madingley Cemetery, which
is the largest of the three in the United Kingdom. Lack of shopping space still
keeps the number down to a trickle, but it is expected to grow as the position
improves. I am assured that relatives go back happier for having visited the graves
and that
they are most impressed by what the cemetery staff have done, and how well it is
run

1922
The Cambridge Library Committee has resolved to convert the Free Library into an
open access
library, which will enable borrowers to go straight to the shelves and select books
for themselves. It is a somewhat heroic experiment, as the library premises are
old-fashioned, confined and ill-lighted. A thousand persons a day rummaging at will
over the shelves in the limited space available is a serious proposition and
considerable expenses will be involved in the rearrangement of shelves and
bookcases

1897
Will you allow me a small space to refer to the arrangements for sweeping and
cleaning Fitzroy Street. After one gets one's place thoroughly cleaned and dusted,
ready for business, we have three men commence sweeping the street and it is
impossible sometimes to see across the road for dust. After this is done and the
cart takes the rubbish away the water cart makes its appearance about two hours
later. Considering that Fitzroy-street is one of the busiest streets of Cambridge I
think these things could be altered to the
benefit of the tradespeople of the street - letter from "Shopkeeper"

THURSDAY
May 8th
1972

More than 100 former pupils of Papworth Everard Primary School took a stroll down
Memory Lane on
Saturday when they met their old headmistress, Mrs Muriel Dykes. And there were
gasps of amusement or horror as the visitors, who all went to the school between
1922 and 1946, caught sight of photographs of boys in "short" trousers reaching
below their knees who are now respectable-suited businessmen and shy little girls
with smocks and ringlets who are now married women. Mrs Dykes came to the
villageschool as head in 1922, when she was 28, and retired in 1946. She said "The
whole village was started for soldiers from the First World War who were suffering
from Tuberculosis. So many of them were townsmen, coming from sophisticated places
to a place where water wasn't laid on, or electric light. They were disgusted that
their children should have to go to a village school"

1947
Some 200 local women took part in the Guildhall in the first big physical culture
display to be held in Cambridge since before the war. It was a first-rate
demonstration given by members of the Cambridge Women's Physical Culture Club,
which is run by the Misses Marjorie and Mary Vinsen. In a display lasting and hour
and a half they gave eloquent proof of the buoyant elasticity which can be attained
through exercise and an indication of the physical fitness which results, for at
the end of a strenuous performance they appeared as fresh as when they started.

1922
The local Labour and Co-operative Parties were well represented on Parker's Piece
on Saturday when a May Day Demonstration was held. The proceedings commenced with a
procession which marched in the following order : Railway Silver Band, officers of
the party, banner of the A.S.L.E. and F., Co-operative banner and party, smaller
unions and womens sections, Cherryhinton band, builders' banner and banner of the
N.U.R.

1897
The new Waterworks at Haverhill have now been opened. The well is dug 103 feet. The
pumping of
water is done by two gas engines. All the main points of the working can be seen in
the engine-room by means of gauges, thus preventing any oil or dirt getting into
the well; and as nothing comes in contact with the water but pure air, no
contamination whatever is possible
FRIDAY
May 9th
1972

Leading groups from the world of Soul, Beat and Pop are to be booked for a new
season of entertainment at the Howard Mallett Youth Club, built at a cost of
£60,000, four years ago as a "drop-in" club for youngsters in the city.
Discotecheque equipment costing £200 is also being installed for a new programme of
Sunday discos. "We intend to get back our crowds of 200 for the discos and 500 for
the dances" said the warden. Nearly half the area of the club is devoted to the
coffee and snack bar and lounges. "There is no sort of membership. Anyone over 17
can drop in to meet friends and talk. The admission is 5p."

1947
Cambridgeshire County Council made history today by electing its first woman
chairman, and many
friends will join in congratulations to Ald Mrs Clarke on the distinction accorded
her. Mrs Clark is the first woman chairman of a County Council outside London.

1922
T.A. Reavell, the manager of the Cambridge Labour Exchange is leaving. The Deputy
Divisional
Controller from the Ministry explained that in the interests of economy two of the
large divisional offices had been closed and posts had to be found for the
officials. Mr Almond felt it was but a sample of the high-handed and autocratic
system which prevailed in which Ministers were now permitted to over-ride and
interpret Acts of Parliament according to their own idea. This was seconded by Mr
Shadbolt on behalf of the workers panel and echoed by the Master of Downing,
chairman of the Local Employment Committee

1897
Under the personal direction of Mr James D. Bohee, banjoist to the Prince and
Princess of Wales, the Royal Bohee Operatic Minstrels commenced a week's visit to
Cambridge at the Beaconsfield Hall, Gwydir-street, when the room was filled. Mr
Bohee played a popular march on the banjo, and instrument so often condemned as
unmusical and showed his skill the more in his rendering of "Home, sweet home" with
variations, which afforded more scope for his fingers to bring out the effect of
light and shade, the soft
passages seeming to whisper in the air amid the silence of the room, and the
crashing noises of the fortissimo resounding loudly above the accompaniment of the
orchestra.

Looking Back by Mike Petty

MONDAY
May 12th

1972
Robinson and Gimbert, the Cambridge builders with reputation for high class work
have been taken
over by one of the "big boys" of British home building. From next week they will be
trading under the direction of T & E Homes ltd of Reigate. The Cambridge firm who
started in Guildhall Street 25 years ago and moved to Victoria Road six years ago
have 60 full time employees. Robinson and Gimbert currently have schemes on the go
at Oakington and Stapleford, and recently completed one at Waterbeach. They
build about 50 houses a year

1947
A.E. Stubbs, MP for the county, is to raise in the House of Commons the Minister of
Transport's decision to slash Cambridgeshire's road grant. Ald Jackson said "It
means we shall be unable, on class three roads, to do any work at all, except in
so far as for 5 and a half miles of road we shall have one roadman. He will not be
able even to do the necessary sweeping inn the villages. We shall not have the
money now to fill up potholes, we shall not have the money to do snow-clearing, and
in fact we shall do practically nothing at all"

1922
"To the glory of God, and in thankful memory of the men of --- who gave their lives
in the Great War". How often have these sad dedicatory words been spoken during the
past year or two as each local memorial was unveiled? But never have they been
uttered with such deep impressiveness and in an air so charged with beautiful
meaning as when they were spoken by the Bishop of Ely in Ely Cathedral this
afternoon. For the veneration bestowed on each individual memorial was collected
and concentrated on the beautiful memorials which have been erected in the
Cathedral to the memory of the 5,320 men who made the supreme sacrifice in defence
of their country's honour

1897
Last night a brilliant debate took place in the Debating Hall of the Cambridge
University Union on the question of Women's Degrees. Mr T.F.R. McDonnell of St
John's college said that one would suppose that as soon as the report had been
passed a plague of women would descend upon Cambridge and infest verything. It was
asked why women did not found a University of their own. A University was not built
in a day and this would not prevent them from building one

TUESDAY
13th May

1972
It's whatever turns you on, man, and for 3,000 people who gathered at Parkers Piece
last night the message was : "If you're gonna turn on, turn on to Jesus". The "drop
your dope" call came from 31-year-old Arthur Blessitt, the self-styled leader of
the Jesus People movement in America. His message was simple: "Go,Go,Go with Jesus"
-and his technique was the fast-talking hard sell of detergent commercials. Mr
Blessitt became known in Britain after a mammoth nation-wide walk and his followers
grew from a handful to many thousands

1947
Youngest of the 29 prizwinners inn the Cambridge Accident Prevention Council's Milk
Bottle disc competition is three-year old Judith Wynn. Last night, attired in a
tiny Tartan kilt and clasping her mother's hand she toddled on to the stage of the
Regal Cinema to receive her prize from the Mayor. He hoped everyone who collected
the discs would read the slogans printed on them and take note of them, then reread
them and read them yet again. Cambridge streets were built long before the days of
motor cars, he commented, "and it is essential in this town, where cyclists are
more numerous than most, that they should read and remember these slogans"

1922
Cambridge ruri-deaconal conference's housing committee was of the opinion that
there still existed in Cambridge many slums which were a disgrace to a Christian
community. The dirty and lazy habits of some of the people rendered nugatory any
attempts to improve the conditions in which they lived. As long as such miserable
housing conditions existed they had no right to be surprised that the habits of the
people who lived in them were often unsatisfactory
1897
The 3rd (Cambs) Volunteer Battalion, Suffolk Regiment are suffering seriously
through lack of accommodation at their headquarters in Corn Exchange Street,
Cambridge. "Most inconveniently", said the Colonel emphatically "we are unable to
get the gun in"

WEDNESDAY
14th May

1972
The story-book world of Bambi the baby deer came to Gilbert Road, Cambridge,
yesterday when Mr Roy Wing looked over his garden fence. He couldn't believe his
eyes. A small, brown, bright-eyed young deer was sitting calmly among the foliage
in his neighbour's garden at 142 Gilbert Road in the middle of suburban Cambridge,
many miles from the known haunts of deer

1947
Filmgoers who have seen Miss Betty Grable's previous films with doubtless find her
latest something of a novelty for "The Shocking Miss Pilgrim" shows her as one of
the first typists, taping merrily on the keyboard of one of the first typewriters
ever manufactured, nearly 80 years ago. There is an added novelty however, inasmuch
as a machine similar to the one she usesis actually owned by a Cambridge resident
who taught herself to type on it many years ago. This collector's piece is the
property of Miss M. Pate, roprietress since 1900 of the University Typewriting
Office in Trinity Street. Before that it was owned by Oscar Browning of King's
college and bears on the lid a handwritten note saying it was "seen with much
interest and tried by George Eliot" when on a visit to Mr Brownng

1922
It would have occasioned very little surprise if, after the by-election it had been
announced that Mr Hugh Dalton was not to stand again for Cambridge because it was
felt that the Labour headquarters appreciated the work he had done here and would
be likely to find him a constituency where there were greater prospects of Labour
success than Cambridge offers. But his withdrawal from the field so soon after his
acceptance of an invitation to contest the seat again has come as something of a
bombshell to the rank and file of the Party.

1897
An alarming and extensive fire occurred at Cottenham soon after midnight. Some
young people were returning from a birthday party and upon passing the premises of
the Alexandra Coffee Tavern noticed a fire in one of the outbuildings. Alarm was at
once given but as it unfortunately happened the place was surrounded by a number of
large thatched barns and buildings and in a very short time seven premises were
ablaze and lit up the country for miles around

THURSDAY
15th May

1972
Revolution swept quietly through the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge when for the
first time a modern musician accompanied the preview of an exhibition by a
contemporary artist. The folk- singer, Donovan, played his guitar and sang to the
predominately-young audience who had come to view the opening of a showing of
sculptures by David Wynne. Sitting cross-legged on a lime- green cushion and
flanked by the odd Murillo depicting a biblical scene, Donovan's presence was
clearly not part of the Fitzwilliam tradition. Donovan was one of the subjects
whose heads were depicted in bronze in the exhibition
1947
In the Dorothy cafe, where it began, with its founder-President and a number of
other founder- members present Cambridge Rotary Club celebrated the 25th
anniversary of its foundation and of the coming of Rotary to Cambridge. Founder-
President E Saville Peck visualised the club celebrating its 50th anniversary and
trusted that its members would be proud of the work they had accomplished.

1922
Sir. Cambridge is a University town, supposed to respect and consider its
inhabitants. My husband served with his Majesty's Forces abroad for four years. He
has been unemployed nearly two years and willing for any kind of work. His labour
dole now being finished, and I myself not being able to work to keep our home
going, he was forced to apply to the Guardians for relief and was told this morning
that relief could not be granted but that he could have a ticket to go into the
Workhouse. Is this the reward our men receive for all they have done? - letter from
An Ex-Serviceman's Wife

1897
As already stated in our columns Cottenham has been the scene of an alarming and
extensive fire. The outbreak occurred in an outbuilding behind the Alexandra Coffee
Tavern, where Mr Whitehead, who lets out bicycles on hire, had a quantity of
machines. It is thought that the outbreak may have been caused by one of the lamps
of the machines having been left alight

FRIDAY
16th May

1972
Insignificant Hardwick, a ribbon development west of Cambridge has become
"millionaires' row" with the sale of land destined for a huge new housing estate. A
building firm have bought 84 acres from 51 landowners for close on £1 million. The
480 strong village was said by many to be "dying " through lack of interest and
development. In 1935 the land was bought by the philanthropist Mr William Game. He
had the idea of it becoming a "green dream" for Cockneys who wanted to quit London
for the countryside. Many people who bought land there reared chickens but when the
bottom fell out of the egg market in the mid 1950s most of the land fell into
disuse.

1947
Still more pumps brought over from Holland are coming into the Cambridgeshire fens
to help add further food- producing acres to the thousands already cleared of flood
water since "Operation Fenlands" began about two months ago. One, a 36-inch pump
capable of throwing 110 tons of water a minute - nearly 25,000 gallons – is about
to be installed on the Earith-Sutton road at Chain Drove. It will reinforce the
battery of three 24-inch ones from Holland already operating there. Together with
three similar pumps they can take over half a million tons every 24 hours off the
flooded Haddenham Fen area.In other words they will clear daily an amount of water
equal to Parker's Piece flooded to a depth of twentyfeet

1922
Cambridge Amateur Swimming Club held their annual meeting at the Alexandra Hall.
The past year had been a difficult one, and in many ways disappointing. Owing to
the state of the river they were obliged to cancel the annual regatta and almost
entirely abandon the fixtures arranged for the season. Five polo matches had been
played of which one had been won and four lost

1897
On Monday last Mr Marshall Fisher of Ely celebrated his 92nd birthday, and received
numerous congratulations and good wishes. He is (with the exception of a little
deafness) in full possession of his facilities. When asked by our representative
the secret of his long continued good health, he replied that he had always been
strictly temperate, and smoked but once in his life. By the courtesy of Mr Fisher
our representative was shown round his museum

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

MONDAY

May 19th
1972
A Cambridge building which has had a richly varied history enters yet another era
of its life when Eastern
Electricity's enlarged shop opens at 4 Market Hill on Monday. At different stages
of its history the Market
Hill buildng has been a cinema - oldies of the "penny-gas" days of the early
twenties before the talkies were
projected on to the wall of what is now a sub-station behind the shop - and a
tearoom frequented by undergraduates, who took their 1920's tea and muffins in the
panelled room upstairs

1947
"However any calamities the war brought, it brought one great saving - it has
resulted in closer relations
between England and Poland than ever before in history. The Poles have 'discovered'
the English, and learned to appreciate their great qualities, and in the same way
many English people have 'discovered' the Poles. This opinion was expressed in
Cambridge on Saturday by Dr Z. Lubienski, lecturer in the department of education,
Cambridge University, when he addressed members of the Cambridge Women's Luncheon
Club, after a luncheon in the Dorothy Cafe.

1922
At the Cambridge Housing Committee meeting Mrs Rackham said that there were 430
marriages in the borough during the year, and only 72 new houses were built. They
were also told that there would have been more marriages had it not been for the
housing difficulty. In 116 homes in which babies were born there was overcrowding
to the extent, in some cases, of six or seven persons per bedroom. Before the war
they used to talk of legal overcrowding as two persons in a room. Then there was
some hope of getting the matter put right, but now there was none.

1897
Sir - It has been a cause of much regret and dissatisfaction to many to hear of the
closing of the Barnwell Branch Free Library. It was understood that the opening of
the new library on the Mill-road would not
interfere with the progress of the Barnwell branch, but it seems that the East-road
library is to be closed to
supply the Romsey Town Library with books. When it is closed I am afraid many
people who would otherwise read, will patronise public-houses, for many men who
have worked 12 hours would hardy care to walk a mile before they could get a book
to read

TUESDAY

20the May
1972
Faith, Hope and Charity will never be quite the same again if the Government go
ahead with their proposed
motorway interchange at Girton. Faith, Hope and Charity are the names of three
fields on the Cambridge
University Farm - and their future is in some doubt because they lie at the exact
spot where the city's Northern and Western bypasses are due to meet up with the
A604. Although the university farm has some
picturesque names - Youngman's Pasture, Pheasant Meadow and Stickfast - it is an
experimental unit rather than a pure agricultural investment

1947
For what he described as a "horrible cowardly offence" - that of robbery with
violence against an eldrly Ely
jeweller - Lord Chief Justice Goddard, at Cambs Assizes, sentenced a 21-year-old
man to two months imprisonment and 12 strokes of the birch. The judge said "If I
were merely to send you to prison I should have to send you to prison for a very
long time. The best thing to do is to treat you like what you are - a thoroughly
naughty boy - and give you something you will remember. I hope you will take it
like a man"

1922
Half a century ago Cambridge was notorious for its trading exclusiveness and
backwardness. It was self-
centred, localised, jealous of intruders and generally stuck-in-the mud. A vastly
different state of affairs
exists today. Local firms have developed or are springing up who are not satisfied
with the seasonal trade and limited scope which Cambridge has to offer, but are
seeking extensions of their business to wider fields and successfully competing in
the open market with others. Generally there is a greater spirit of enterprise than
was exhibited even 25 years ago. This, no doubt, has been due in part to the
introduction of multiple shops, and the lessons that have been impaired by their
very up-to- date proprietors

1897
At Ely Urban District Council meeting a number of cases of waste water, defective
cisterns and sanitary defects were reported. The pump at Queen Adelaide, which had
been put out of order through mischievous boys putting stones in, had been repaired
at a cost of £2. Warning notices had been put up

WEDNESDAY

21st May
1972
The rapid growth of Burwell - which has almost doubled in population in 10 years -
may have to be slowed down to allow public services to catch up. The village which
now has a population of more than 5,000, needs improved sewerage facilities to cope
with the new homes and trade waste from a large factory.

1947
So that parents of young children can go out to the cienma, or visit friends or
relations, a sitters-in
service was started in Cambridge a year ago and has been operating ever since. At
the present time there are 49 sitters and 62 parents on the register. The cost of
the service is an annual subscription of 2s 6d which enables the parent to be on
the register for a year, and 2s 6d each time a sitter-in is employed. Their "star
turn" I am told, was, until she left Cambridge recently, much to the regret of all,
a grandmother of 70!

1922
For three months of the year Cambridge is almost a deserted city and trade dwindles
to a mere trickle; yet
this town might, with a little effort on the part of the municipality and business
people be made a most
attractive holiday centre. Where can there be found another town only just over
fifty miles from London and
with four trunk railway companies serving it, which has such splendid openings for
the provision of sites for the factories of industrial enterprises?. We are still
unenterprising here, and it is surely time we got a move
on. The University can look after itself - "Table Talk"

1897
After the Senate House scenes yesterday (when the University voted against degrees
for women – see yesterday's "Memories") there was a brief respite. It was the calm
before the storm. About 7 o'clock there was a grand gathering of the clans.
Undergraduates began trooping through the streets to what was obviously a pre-
arranged rendezvous - the Market Hill. From the four corners of the square fire was
opened upon everybody and everything within range. Bombs, hand-rockets, and every
description of firework manufactured were flung haphazard into the crowd until the
scene resembled nothing so much as the bombardment of a hostile camp, It is no
exaggeration to say that hundreds of pounds worth of stuff were got rid of during
the five hours the proceedings lasted

THURSDAY
22nd May

1972
Cambridgeshire people are not "prison-minded" and they display a certain apathy
towards crime, claimed
Cambridge's Senior Probation Officer, Mr William Gaskell, last night. The reason
was that the county had
no prisons. Yet the effects of crime were very much with us. "We have people from
this county in 25 different prisons and borstals in counties in East Anglia and
South East England"

1947
The manageress of an Ely cafe who bought 360 eggs from the proprietor of a grocers'
business for the benefit of flood-workers who frequented her cafe at that time was
fined £5 by Ely magistrates for obtaining the egg without the authority of the
Ministry of Food. On April 16th the Divisional Enforcement Officer ot the Ministry
of Food visited the Kum-In Cafe with another official and asked for hot lunch. They
were served with eggs, chips and sausage and noticed that other customers were also
being served with eggs. The manageress had purchased 360 eggs for the correct price
of £3. The only authority she had for eggs was six - her allocation for the members
of her family

1922
Original "rags" in Cambridge are becoming few and far between, but there was
something absolutely new this morning, when undergraduates treated their fellow-
members of the University, and townspeople also to that rare spectacle - a film in
the making - when there took place the filming of episode one of "The Supper Man".
Shortly before noon we beheld a crowd seething round a lorry bearing camera men and
some bright spirits with megaphones. These bright spirits made a loud noise with
the aid of the megaphone whereat the villain, one Silas Windle, the most villainous
villain that ever "villainised" appeared mounted on a handsome gee-gee
1897
'The University of Cambridge' (the "Daily News" thinks) 'has not improved its
reputation for sense and judgement by its votes (not to award women degrees). Not a
single argument worthy of the name has been produced in favour of the decision'.
'Of the wisdom shown by the Cambridge Senate there can be but one opinion' (says
the "Morning Post"). 'In rejecting by an overwhelming majority the Graces for
giving Titles of Degrees to ladies they have done much to revive the reputation of
their University for forethought and discretion'

FRIDAY

23rd May
1972
Two homeless, unsupported mothers have taken over a house in Milton Road,
Cambridge, as squatters and intend to make it their home. They expect to be joined
by four more mothers and another nine children. The mothers, who refused to give
their names, are members of a group who call themselves the Cambridge Squatters,
formed only a week ago. They want to bring greater recognition to the social
problems of unsupported mothers.

1947
The devastated fenlands have been the objectives of many distinguished visitors of
late, not least of whom was the Premier and Minister of Education of Ontario. They
stopped to inspect many of the flooded houses, which, although now clear of water,
are still carpeted with layers of thick, slimy mud. The walls, too, are in many
places still damp, and the paper which once hid the walls is peeling off leaving
bare ugly patches. The
road between Ely and King's Lynn is once again open to all traffic. The Haddenhm-
Earith Road is also free of water, but that between Earith and Sutton is still
flooded

1922
A story of a courageous old lady of 88 who declared she "was not a bit afraid" when
she routed two burglars was told at the Cambs Divisional Court. Miss Larkin of
Milton said that last Saturday evening she put her
gloves, handkerchief and one penny on the chest of drawers in readiness for church
on the following
morning. She was awakened by a noise which she at first thought was a train
shunting. After a time she saw two men come in through the bedroom door carrying
the lamp from her big room in their hand. Witness jumped out of bed, lit her candle
and said "What do you want". They had handkerchiefs over their faces which she
pulled down.

1897
The custom of bestowing the Dunmow flitch of bacon has been suspended once more. It
is probably abolished for ever, seeing that previous to its revival seven or eight
years ago, it had fallen into desuetude. This might have been owing to the modern
conditions attached to its bestowal. When in the reign of Henry VII it was made
known that "he which repented him not of his marriage, sleeping or waking, in a
yeere and a day, might lawfully fetch a gammon of bacon" from the priory church of
Little Dunmow" this was comparatively easy of obtainment

Looking Back by Mike Petty

MONDAY
May 26th
1972

ABC Taxis of Cambridge, have taken over one of their biggest rivals, United Taxis
Ltd, and now run one of the largest fleets of hire cars in the area. United were
in the news two years ago when they decided to run all
their cabs on petroleum gas which, they claimed, gave a considerable cost saving in
spite of expensive
conversions to the engines

1947
A penny-farthing earned some thousands per cent interest at an Empire Day fete held
by the Balsham Conservative and Unionist Association in the Park, Balsham, on
Saturday. But this penny-farthing was nothing so ordinary as a sum of money. It was
an example of the cycle of that name and it earned the interest by people paying to
ride on it. It was a "star" attraction in an event full of attraction. Other items
were a fancy-dress competition, a baby show, a goat show, and a Punch & Judy show

1922
A heavy thunderstorm, which missed Cambridge, passed over the country districts
accompanied by hail of
enormous size. At Cottenham the deluge was most intense for about ten minutes. The
hail stones measured 1 ½ (one-and -half) to 1 3/4 (one and three quarter) inches
and some which were picked up were, it is said, as large as hen's eggs. Many panes
of glass were broken in the greenhouses at Mr Gautrey's nurseries. Severe damage
was done to the strawberry and plum crops. Other villages including Dry Drayton
were deluged with torrential rain and hail of unusual size. At Caldecote and
Hardwick windows were broken and the hailstones are reported to have been the size
of walnuts

1897
An incident that is probably unparalleled in Poor Law annals has just occurred at
Newmarket. The master of the workhouse has for several years been collecting funds
to build a church for the inmates and has simultaneously been studying for Holy
Orders in order to be himself qualified to act as incumbent. He has succeeded in
both these objects. The spirit of emulation is strong among workhouse managers and
once they begin to enter the ranks of the church nobody knows where they will stop

TUESDAY
27 May

1972
Hundreds of acres of root crops have been lost or badly damaged in the severe dust
storms which swept
Cambridgeshire fens yesterday. Farmers say it was the worst for 20 years. During
the storm visibility was down to as little as five yards and trees were uprooted.
Mr Fred Abbs, a manager of several farms totalling 1,000 acres at Swaffham Fen
estimated today that he has lost more than 100 acres of carrots and sugar beet. Mr
Abbs estimated the lost crops were worth about £2,000

1947
Detective work by police officers of the Cambs County Constabulary led to the
appearance at the Newmarket Petty Sessions of an ex-member of the Polish Army who
was charged with breaking and entering a N.A.A.F.I. canteen at Chippenham. Amongst
the evidence called was a statement given from the witness box by one of Scotland
Yard's foremost finger-print experts. Defendant, who was described as neither a
member of the Polish Army nor the Re-settlement Corps, was living at the North
Camp,
Chippenham. He was charged with stealing a steel safe containing £21.5s 3d in cash,
4 National health
Insurance cards, 4 unemployment cards and 4 ration books to a total value of £41.5s
3d

1922
The report went on to state that a shortage of water was experienced at Harston and
Great Wilbraham; the supply was depleted by the pumping at the Cambridge Water
Company's new works and by the drought. The latter difficulty had now been overcome
by the Company fixing four standpipes in the village. Most of the wells at Little
Wilbraham failed during the drought. Considerable discussion arose as to the
condition of the polluted brook at Histon. It was stated that the people of Histon
were living in a "stink pot"

1897
Yesterday afternoon a ceremony of the deepest import to the Presbyterian Church of
England took place at
Cambridge, when Mrs Lewis and Mrs Gibson jointly laid the foundation stone of the
Westminster Theological College. A large number of people assembled on the site
many of the visitors coming from a distance. The building will stand on the piece
of ground between Madingley-road, Northampton-street and Pound-hill. The building
is in the English Renaissance style

WEDNESDAY
28th May

1972
An unlovely and inhumane heap. That is how the "Architect's Journal" describes the
£12 million second
stage of New Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge now complete after six years of
building. "One would have to go a long way to find such an unlovely and inhumane
heap, which looks as if it was designed piecemeal by a team of untalented temporary
assistants ...".

1947
There is an urgent requirement at Trumpington for school accommodation to meet the
needs of children from the new housing estate. Coun Mrs Rackham told the Cambridge
primary education sub-committee that children were "coming in fast" from the new
estate but it would not be a wise proceeding to erect huts as it would take such a
very long time and it was doubtful if they would be ready before the new school in,
it was hoped, September 1948. The playground too would be very much spoiled by
building operations and it was a far better idea, if possible, to use the Free
Church Schoolroom

1922
Rowdy conduct at promenade concerts on Christ's Pieces, Cambridge, is very
seriously regarded by members of the Corporation and if things do not take a better
turn the question whether it is worth going on with them will be considered. The
remedy lies with parents who surely can see to it that whilst their children enjoy
themselves, as is right and proper for children to do, they do not make themselves
a nuisance. The need of public discipline is becoming more and more apparent and
rowdyism must be checked.

1897
A considerable amount of misapprehension appears to exist in regard to the
provision of music for the use of
the inmates of the Cambridge Workhouse. As a matter of fact that institution is
unusually well provided with
musical instruments. In addition to the organ recently erected in the chapel there
are five or six other
instruments - harmoniums and pianos – distributed throughout the house so that the
inmates have frequent
opportunities of enjoying music in their own rooms. Indeed it is safe to say that
more music is heard in the
wards in a single week than the majority would have heard in their own homes in 12
months

THURSDAY
29th May

Cambridge housewives were warned at the weekend of further steep rices in meat
prices because of increasing prices in wholesale markets. Mr A.C. Finbow, area
manager of J.H. Dewhurst, who have 10 city branches, said meat prices would have to
go up. Rump steak he added would probably have to go up from the present 75p per
pound to 78p. At the Victoria Road butchers, A. Waller and Son, the owner, Mr Peter
Welton said he had not increased beef prices for three months, or New Zealand lamb
prices for over a month.

1947
Many of the 2,400 persons in the Borough of Cambridge who had been notified that
they were to receive a gift of food-stuffs given by the peoples of Melbourne and
Sydney (Australia) and South Africa, were on the
doorstep of the Guildhall promptly at 9 o'clock this morning when the distribution
began. These foodstuffs,
comprising syrup, preserves, meat and vegetable stew, orange crush, grape fruit
juice, and small quantity of
canned fruit, totalled some 6,000 tins and bottles. Some of the recipients had
previously received similar gifts from other countries and knew their value. For
others the nature of the presents were a pleasant surprise

1922
Among the charitable institutions of Cambridge is the Cottage Home for Little
Orphan Girls in Fitzwilliam-
road. Its work has been carried on so quietly and unassumingly that the majority of
townspeople are
probably unaware of its existence. More than fifty years ago two wealthy Cambridge
undergraduates were so distressed at the sight of many poor and neglected children
in the town that they gave a certain sum of
money for the founding of a home for orphan girls. Girls are admitted between the
ages of four and twelve and are trained for domestic service and I am assured that
those who have passed through the Home had done exceedingly well.

1897
The foundation stone of the new building of St John's church, Hills Road,
Cambridge, was successfully laid on the 4th May last year. The first section was
completed and consecrated December 15th, 1896. The result of opening the new
building has amply justified the decision to hasten the commencement of the work.
The
congregations have been most encouraging and the average of the weekly collections
doubled

FRIDAY
30th May

1972
Sainsbury, who open a new supermarket on the Matthews site in the centre of
Cambridge on August 1st, are to auction their old shop in Sidney Street. Property
values in central Cambridge are soaring, agents talk
confidently in top rental terms of £6 and more a square foot on prime sites. The
closure of the Sidney Street
premises is part of Sainsbury's policy to do away with service stores. The new shop
is in standard supermarket style.

1947
Today, May 30th, day on which America remembers her war dead, there was heard over
Cambridge a sound which was once so frequent above the English countryside – the
roar of the engines of a Flying Fortress, the sound of which was the requiem of so
many of the gallant, gay and generous company of American service men and women,
nearly 7,000 of them, who lie at rest among the green and wooded loveliness that
forms the slopes of Madingley Hill. Some hundreds of members of the public had made
the journey up the hill to join in the ceremony, proof that the affection inspired
in our midst by the American troops and Air Forces was of the kind which transcends
death

1922
The Cambridge Salvation Army Citadel, Tenison-road, was well filled with visitors
and friends when a
presentation of new silver-plated instruments took place under the chairmanship of
Gypsy Smith. The first
instruments to be presented were three cornets, the next consisted of two flugel
horns and a euphonium. Mr M. Stuart recalled what the old General had said to him
about Salvation Army bands : "It is better for a man to beat a drum than to beat
his wife". It was better for a man to blow a flugel horn than to blow his brains
out, which was what some poor fellows in the depth were tempted to do

1897
After the heat on Sunday thunderstorms were experienced In some of the houses in
Romsey Town, Cambridge, the rain beat in under the doors and ran as far as the
staircases and sitting rooms, necessitating the use of pails and house-flannels,
whilst at others it was found necessary to bail the water from the gutter to
prevent the flooding of front rooms. This latter operation was a matter of
precaution as the steps of the houses are level with the paths - another argument
for making paths before the houses are erected

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY

June 2nd
1972

A free parking bonus will be given to motorists using Cambridge's show-piece Lion
Yard car park during its
first weeks operation after the opening date on July 24 The city's Traffic and
Parking Committee decided to cut parking charges by 5p during the working day for
the first week, which means one hour's free parking during each parking period. If
a motorist leaves his car at Lion Yard for one hour or less it will be completely
free

1947
Yesterday, in the little fen town of Soham, the memory of two railwaymen who three
years ago gave their lives that the town might be saved from complete obliteration,
was remembered and honoured by Soham people. Local people recalled how in the early
hours of June 2nd 1944 fire broke out in an ammunition train standing in Soham
station. Driver Benjamin Gimbert of March, and his fireman Mr E. Nightall of
Littleport uncoupled the blazing wagon and started to shunt it away from the town.
Signalman F. Bridges of Soham was about to warn other rail traffic in the area when
the wagon containing high explosive bombs exploded. Soham station was completely
wiped out and Nightall and Bridges were killed. On the spot where the station was
now stands a pre-fab hut which serves as a booking office, waiting room and control
centre. But the match-boarding wall of the hut now bears a brass tablet which tells
the story of Soham's escape from destruction

1922
Through the generosity of a comparative stranger in their midst, the people of
Coton have at last had a long-
felt want satisfied. A year ago Mr & Mrs Albert Peake took up their residence at St
Catharine's Hall Farm, and clamant need for a recreation ground for the parish was
so forcibly borne in upon them that they recently decided to present a splendid 10-
acre field near the centre of the village for the purpose.

1897
St Ives was visited on Saturday evening by a thunderstorm of short duration. At Mr
B. King's house in
Church-street the chimney was struck and bricks scattered in all direction. The
current made a great hole in the roof and smashed all the ornaments and a water jug
in the bedroom. A large picture in a gilt frame looks as though it has been
rescued from fire, all the gilt being scorched and burnt off. This picture hung
directly over the head of the bed in which Mrs King and her child were.

TUESDAY

June 3rd

Old Huntingdonshire road signs which have been obsolete for several years could be
sold for more than £100 each. Ald George Earl said the four foot long signs, which
contain the word Huntingdonshire and the old county crest could be quite valuable.
Ald Donald Daking, a Peterborough auctioneer and surveyor, said "they should by all
means make a nice little figure. You might get £25, but I doubt you will get three
figures

1947
Visiting Cambridge today to attend a celebration associated with age - the 400th
anniversary of the foundation of Trinity College - the King and Queen were greeted
early by youth, represented by 6,000 Cambridge schoolchildren who cheered wildly as
their Majesties drove along Station Road on the first stage of their journey. In
several shop windows in the centre of town goods had been replaced a few minutes
before the King and Queen passed, by assistants, etc, and the blue-frocked staff of
Messrs Boots had a grandstand view from large packing boxes placed in the front
entrance

1922

Roof escapades by undergraduates have been numerous of late and the missing
prehistoric fish weather vane on the Geological Museum dome is the outcome of one
of those. Another high altitude "rag" took place recently when handkerchiefs and
clothing were tied to one of the towers of King's Chapel. A story has been told
that a proposal of marriage was made and accepted on a college roof during a
nocturnal excursion in which undergraduate students of the fair sex took part. Can
it be that this story was circulated to try and throw the blame on the ladies for
removing the prehistoric fish?

1897
The Mill-road branch of the Free Library was opened by the Mayor last night amid
every manifestation of
pleasure and satisfaction. The Mayor said that people who lived in that
neighbourhood were too far from the
Guildhall to be able to get the full advantage of the Free Library. Within a half-
mile radius of the handsome
new bulding there is a population of not less than 12,000 people. It was in May
1891 that the Guardians conveyed the site to the Corporation for the express
purpose of erecting thereon a building for a branch free
library. No public body ever made better use of public ground

WEDNESDAY

June 4th
1972

It's not every roadsweeper who goes to work in a taxi. But Mr Ernie Hatchelt, who
workeds for St Neots Urban District Council goes in style every day. It all started
three months ago when Mr Hatchelt's motor cycle broke down and he faced the problem
of getting to work from Tempsford six miles away. Now he goes in a taxi every day
to St Neots and clocks up £7 a week in fares each week. A roadsweeper's basic pay
is £17.90 a week but bonus takes it up to £19 gross

1947
Although the Royal visit to Trinity College was mainly a University affair the
women of Cambridge had an
opportunity of seeing the Queen, aptly described during the recent Royal tour as
British womanhood's
ambassadress. The question, a natural one, many of the women were asking was "What
was the Queen wearing". The Mayoress (Mrs F. Doggett) had the experience of waiting
on the Queen almost throughout the day. She said that both the King and Queen asked
many questions about the fen floods showing a real interest and sympathy in the
difficulties of the flood victims. She was impressed by the Queen's great charm.
"She was untiring and knew just what to say to everybody", she observed

1922
Circus enthusiasts who were disappointed by the non-arrival of Sylvester's Circus
will find ample solace for
their disappointment should they visit the Great Empire Circus this week. To
describe the numerous items provided by accomplished tricksters (both animals and
humans) would be well nigh impossible. Gollywogs,
tricksters, whose amazingly clever feats on cycles deservedly gain much applause.
The climax of all the excitement is reached when Miss Eleonora accomplishes her
daring tightrope feat entitled "The Slide for Life". Throughout the whole
entertainment the audience experiences scarcely a dull moment, for which the
humourous antics of several weirdly-attired clowns is largely responsible. It
should be well patronised
because the staff is composed entirely of ex-Service men

1897
The Queen Victoria's Jubilee Free Dinner Committee, having placed their fund for
feeding the aged on a
satisfactory footing, have determined to give a free tea to the children of
Cambridge between the ages of 7 and 14. It is fitting that the children of the
town, the inheritors of the wonderful empire that has been built
up and its future guardians, should have indeliblyimpressed on their minds the
greatest landmark in modern
English history – Editorial

THURSDAY

June 5th

1972
Petty Cury, Cambridge, was closed to all vehicle traffic today and handed back to
pedestrians for the second time this year. It is likely to stay closed to traffic
for at least two years and perhaps permanently. The same city centre street was
closed to traffic for a month's experiment in February which was rated highly
successful. The whole of the southern side of Petty Cury will be demolished in the
next three months and a new central library will appear within the next three years

1947
With regret many enthusiastic and appreciative cinema-goers have learned of the
closing at the end of the week of the Cosmopolitan Cinema, Cambridge. For fourteen
years now it has been open and has a proud record since right from its beginning it
gave Cambridge something out of the ordinary. The owners of the Central Hall, the
Conservative Club, have seen fit to raise the rent to a sum which the directors of
the Cosmopolitan Cinema Ltd feel unable to pay. Developing out of the first
Cambridge Film Society, the Cosmo was opened on October 16th, 1933. (It later
reopened as the Arts Cinema in October 1947)

1922
In the death of Mr Ernest Edward Hayward Cambridge has lost a much respected
townsman. He was one of the first to start cinemas in the town, and used to arrange
for displays at garden parties and gave performances in the Corn Exchange and
Guildhall. The "Arcadia" on St Andrew's-hill was managed by him and he was famed
for the excellent variety entertainment given there. Indeed, deceased was
responsible for the commencement of high-class variety shows in the town. He was an
amateur actor of repute and for many years played the humourous lead in Bijou
Amateur D.C. productions. He belonged to the Cambridge Pierrot Troupe, a concert
party which existed from 1897 to 1901 solely for charitable purposes

1897
A number of long service medals were presented to members of the Volunteer Fire
Brigade last night.
Captain Greef asked the Mayor to see if they could not get a permanent station with
quarters for the men, and also a steam fire-engine. There were some parts of the
town almost unprotected and he was sure the University authorities would welcome
the steam fire-engine, and perhaps they would subscribe. The Mayor said he was
afraid the suggestion about the University being willing to subscribe was not
received with enthusiasm

FRIDAY

June 6th
1972
"Costly and inadequate" bus services in Cambridge are stopping many teenagers from
enjoying themselves in the evening. This is one of the findings of a special survey
into youth activities carried out by the Cambridge Association for the Prevention
of Drug Addiction. Transport formed an almost insurmountable problem. "Bus
services were costly and inadequate; entertainment often had to be curtailed to all
the last bus home to be caught. Outlying villages were even worse served, and as
they were without entertainment the young people had become very discouraged". The
Committee recommended the setting-up of a disco-coffee bar

1947
The need for water economy in Cambridge is still urgent, if restrictions are not to
be placed on supplies for the first time in the 94 years of the Cambridge
University and Town Waterworks Company's existence. Emphasising this today Mr P.
Porteous, managing director said that the position showed a slight improvement.
"Consumption dropped from over five million gallons to just above four and a half
millions gallons yesterday". "We find ourselves able to get just a little back into
the reservoirs. Rain and a drop in temperature will help us" Sun temperatures was
84 degrees, compared with yesterday's maximum of 104 degrees, the highest yet
recorded in the present heat wave

1922

The monthly meeting of the Newmarket Rural District received a petition from Robert
Leonard and 22 others living at The Cotes, Soham, asking the Council to extend the
water main an additional three-quarters of a mile. In view of the great shortage of
pure water in the locality of Soham and the comparatively close
formation of the cottages with their 121 inhabitants, their application was one not
only of necessity, but
reasonable

1897
A good number of people are attending the fete on Midsummer Common. In that part of
the enclosure nearest Maid's Causeway, shooting galleries, stalls, cocoanut shies
and one of Thurston's steam roundabouts were gathered and kept matters lively.
During the afternoon a fancy dress bicycle carnival took place, handsome prizes
were awarded for the best costumes. The first prize for the ladies, a diamond and
ruby crescent brooch, was awarded to Miss L. Unwin of Newnham who, with helmet,
breastplate, shield and trident made a dignified Britannia. Miss Unwin will also
receive the silver "King of the Road" lamp and baby bell given by the Humber Cycle
Supply Co.

LOOKING BACK by Mike Petty

MONDAY
June 9th
1972
It will be Cambridge's feast of the year. At a cost of up to £33 a head, the 60 or
more guests will be treated
to the full flavor of haute cuisine. Turtle soup, lobsters and the very best wine.
But this "men only" dinner at Christ's college on June 30th is not a junket for
visiting royalty. It is a special "plug" for the Cambridge Sports Hall Appeal. The
host will be a London restaurant proprietor. He is gambling that if you are
prepared to spend up to £2,000 to feed 60 to 70 people you can expect to receive up
to £10,000 back in donations to the appeal

1947
Sir, - A disturbing rumour has recently come to my notice that one of our famous
beauty spots in
Cambridgeshire may be in imminent danger of being despoiled. I refer to Barrington
Hill. There appears to
be a project afloat for the building along the side of Barrington Hill of a number
of workmen's dwellings for
the housing of operative employed in the Cement Works. We know only too well that
the need for such dwellings exists. We point out however that there are other and
more suitable thoroughfares what would serve a far more useful purpose for such
building schemes than this beautiful and historic spot - the desecration of which
will be a matter of the greatest distress to many thousands in Cambridgeshire. -
letter from Miss M.S. Gabrielle Breeze, Landbeach

1922
At a special service held in Witcham Parish Church the Bishop of Ely dedicated a
handsome brass memorial
tablet, upon which was inscribed the names of the fifteen men of Witcham who gave
their lives in the Great War. The Bishop asked that the memories of those who had
fallen should always be revered, and that their
sacrifices should not be in vain. It was our duty to keep the villages pure, sober,
and Christian, and so be
worthy of the lives which had been given.

1897
One of the most sad and gruesome crimes it has ever been our lot to publish was
brought to light at Saffron
Walden, the circumstances attending which have not we fear yet been entirely
disclosed and there is reason to believe that before the matter is cleared up there
will probably be unpleasant disclosures in connection
herewith. The parties concerned are a shepherd and his daughter and involve the
death of an infant child aged about four days.

TUESDAY
June 10th

1972
Two long-haired students from the Cambridgeshire College of Arts and Technology
picked the wrong moment to walk into a Cambridge restaurant. It was about the time
of day that the cafe's manageress had seen enough shoulder-length locks to last her
a lifetime. And she refused to serve the students at The Whim in Trinity Street.
The students claimed they were subjected to a stream of almost hysterical abuse and
told they were dirty and disgusting. The manageresss said she had tried to be
patient but found it difficult to run a
business when customers filled up the restaurant for hours at a time having only
paid 5p for a cup of tea

1947
The revival of May Week Balls in something of their full glory brings back to
Cambridge something of the
spirit of gaiety and colour which we knew before the war and which is now more than
ever welcomed as much by townsfolk as by members of the University. The courts of
Trinity presented a fairyland-like appearance with its lantern lit cloisters which
were also decorated with palms. At Clare College the dining hall was used for
dancing to the melodies of Tommy Kinsman's Band from London. Cyril Stapleton and
his band provided the music for dancing at Downing College.

1922
The silver cup offered to the person who could make the best attempt to ride Mr F.
Astley's donkey at the Great Empire Circus was duly won on Friday evening and
proudly carried away by the gallant "rough-rider" who was master of the animal for
a brief - very brief - period. The efforts of the competitors and the manner
of their descent to earth kept the audience convulsed with laughter. A gentleman in
a blazer and white
flannels, who hugged a bottle lovingly to his bosom, first politely raised his hat
to the animal, and then
generously offered it a drink from the bottle.
1897
Sir, - The drought menace is causing alarm among the various water undertakings in
the country and the
Ministry of Health points out the dangers of droughts, especially when they occur
in two successive years.
Should an Inspector come to Cambridge I hope he will find time to visit Milton-road
tennis courts, where he
will find gallons of water wasted. From early morning till late at night men are
spraying water on the courts. The time may come, and come soon, when water may have
to be rationed. Why does the proprietor of the
courts not buy a few water carts and give the unemployed a job to cart the water
from the river, instead of using water that may be needed for domestic use? -
letter from A.E Stubbs

WEDNESDAY

June 11th
1972
The family firm of D. Mackay, Britannia Works, East Road, Cambridge, celebrate
their 60th year jubilee this week. The Britannia Public house from which the works
took its name has recently been demolished, and the houses which formed Britannia
Place have long since disappeared, as has the Smith which stood in the public house
yard. Many other landmarks have been swept away in the new Roadworks. It used to be
said that by standing at the corner of East Road and Newmarket Road one would be
sure to meet one's friends. Now it is difficult to see which is the corner, and the
traffic roars past too fast for leisurely greetings

1947
As an emergency measure the Public Health Committee of Cabridgeshire County Council
has agreed that the Infectious Diseases Hospital be made available for any initial
cases for which observation in hospital might be necessary, until the smallpox
hospital at Oakington could be opened. Following further negotiations the National
Fire Service is now prepared to allow the Council to retain the static water tank
on the Romsey Recreation Ground (it has been proposed that it shall be used as a
chlidren's paddling pool), and to pay the Council £107.8s.10d, the revised estimate
of the cost of demolition and reinstatement of the site

1922
The last days of the Mays (rowing races) drew the largest attendance that has been
seen at these races
since the war. The weather was warm and there was a wonderful display of summer
frocks, flannels and
blazers. The towing path and the enclosures were full of brightly-hued humanity,
while the sky was full of
balloons of all colours, some captive and many escaped. The racing was as excting
as could be desired but
Plough Reach had rather more than their fair share of bumps. After the races the
procession of craft down the river provided another "turn" for the tow-path
spectators. As usual the motor launches did all the
work, and the Viscountess Bury had a long string of hangers-on

1897
At the fortnightly meeting of the Chesterton Board of Guardians Mr Rutter said that
the matron once
complained of the waste of bread in the Workhouse. The inmates had too much bread,
and it was thrown away. Mr Cock said he knew there was waste in some workhouses and
vagrant paupers were fed with the waste food of the ordinary inmates. Mr Foster
said that he had been round the house a great many times and had never discovered
there was any great waste. Every pauper was allowed so much bread and they did not
always eat it. Each one had a sort of little cupboard of their own, and so they had
a little piece of lunch is they required it.

THURSDAY

June 12th

1972
I have just had my first and last visit to Cambridge. I walked half-way round the
city to find a toilet. I was
directed to the one on the market. It stank so much I would not use it. Getting
back to the market - it is a
disgrace, with old clothes stalls which smelt and old vegetable leaves on the floor
a danger to the public.
There were about two decent stalls there and in the centre round the fountain were
the drunks, a revolting
sight - letter from visitor from Bexhill, Kent

1947
A report by the Bishop of Ely's Advisory Committee on the Care of Churches
considered eight churches which were in danger of partial collapse. Typical
examples are the fine medieval towers of Soham and Orwell, the intersting chancel
of Hatley St George, the roof of Caxton and almost the whole church of Wicken,
which is splitting in half.. There were also a large number of churches where
considerable repair was needed now to prevent serious decay later. Some ofthe
failures could be attributed to soil subsidence or rough weather, but for the most
part were due to the accumulation of repairs postponed because of the war

1922
"May week" has reached its second phase and the gaiety of the "Boats" has given
places to a wonderful round of college balls and concerts. The May Week Ball of the
First and Third Trinity Boat Clubs was probably one of the largest affairs of the
kind that has ever been held in Cambridge. Hitherto, owing to a lack of
accommodation the numbers attending has had to be restricted to about 650. Mr D.G.
Marshall of Jesus Lane, however, found a way out of the difficulty with a somewhat
novel scheme. A marquee 100 feet by 40 feet was erected on Market Hill facing the
Guildhall and therein supper was laid. A delightfully cool effect was obtained by
leaving open a part of the side of the tent nearest the fountain and having the
fountain lit up with coloured electric lights in the background. Provision was made
for some 1,100 guests and supper was served in three relays of 375 each, a special
staff of chefs from the House of Commons was specially engaged for the occasion

1897
At St Ives Town Council the Mayor said they would like to offer an address of
congratulation to her Majesty on this memorable occasion (her Diamond Jubilee), and
read an address which he proposed such be illuminated and presented at a cost not
exceeding five guineas. Mr Kiddle asked what her Majesty did with these address and
if she saw them. He was as loyal as anybody in the room but he could not see his
way to spend five guineas for an illuminated address. It was agreed it be engrossed
on parchment in the Town Clerk's office.

FRIDAY

June 13th

1972
Girton College now has more rooms for resident students than any other women's
college in Oxford or Cambridge, claimed the Mistress, Professor Muriel Bradbrook
yesterday. She was speaking at the official opening of Wolfson Court which adds
100 rooms to those available at the main college site. It was financed by an appeal
including a £150,000 contribution from the Wolfson Foundation.

1947
The road was partially blocked and a single line of traffic caused at Milton road
crossing, Cambridge,
yesterday when an engine loaded with tanks at the army camp, G.23, ran into the
buffers and was carried on to the road. It came to a standstill with the engine
projecting across the grass verge. It is understood
that the engine began to move whilst each of the 12 trucks was being loaded with a
Sherman tank. We
understand that the front wheels of the engine were buried in the ground and that
the rails are being burnt
up. It may be some time before the engine can be lifted off the road by crane.

1922
The "pros and cons" of a proposed joint water scheme were reviewed at a public
inquiry convened by the
Ministry of Health held at Ely. Mr H.J.Martin explained that for the most part the
inhabitants of Littleport drank water from the River Ouse. Mr A.K. Campbell put in
an analyst's report to the effect that water from the Ouse taken four miles south
of Littleport was polluted with sewage and was unfit for drinking purposes. Mr
T.Peake: "I would like to remind you that Ely City empties its sewage into the
waters which Littleport has to drink; also that last year the rivers were
absolutely unfit for drinking purposes - they were stagnant and putrid". A feature
of the enquiry was the stout opposition put up by the parishes of Haddenham,
Wilburton, Stretham and Little Downham. A solitary supporter from Stretham
explained that he did not attend a public meeting there - which was unanimous
against the scheme - because had he done so he would
probably have been "crucified"

1897
Mr Tudor's circus have contrived week after week to place before their patrons a
programme not entirely
different from those preceding it. The last item on the programme is contributed
by the Canadian troupe of
comic and scientific skaters, one of the men representing a policeman of goodly
proportions, his clothes being apparently inflated to bursting point! His many
tumbles and his bounciness when on the ground
do not fail to convulse the spectators

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
June 16
1972
Cambridge's famous Magdalene Bridge is to be preserved, the Secretary for the
Environment, Mr Peter Walker, has decided. His move follows last year's public
inquiry into proposals by his Department to knock down and replace the 148-year-old
bridge. Mr Walker has ruled that the bridge should be strengthened internally and
that a temporary bridge should be provided alongside while work is goign on.

1947
"There is a general feeing throughout every grade of society that we want to have a
brighter old age - and this is one of the first steps taken towards it". This
comment was made by Alderman W.L. Briggs when he opened the first Old People's
Welfare Club in the Tracy Memorial Hall, Romsey Town, Cambridge. This club is the
first of its kind in the town, and more will be opened. "This new movement
throughout the county was to take an interest in people who had reached the
sensible years of life". Remarking that as far as pensions were concerned things
were getting better every day - and it should be. "After all, we are the people who
have borne the heat and burden of the day and have made England what she is"

1922
Messrs W. Heffer and Sons have become well known for the excellence of anything
exhibited at their Sidney- street galleries. Well above the standard of the rest of
their exhibits is some of the truly wonderful work of a Scottish artist, Mr William
Watt Milne, who has a studio in St Ives. The six pictures which are exhibited have
been painted in the neighbourhood of Houghton. "Flood at Houghton" is the title of
a pretty little piece of work depicting the picturesque village street on a grey
day with the threatening sky reflected in a pool of water in the foreground. One of
the best pictures is that called "The Old Inn at Houghton", a
superb piece of work

1897
At Huntingdon Borough Sessions a man and his wife were charged with neglecting to
keep their children in a proper manner. Mr Beresford, Inspector of Nuisances for
Huntingdon, said he found the room in a most filthy state. There were only a few
things in the room, besides a heap of old rags in a corner which seemed to
make a bed for the children, and the stench was most terrible. He saw three or four
children without shoe or
stocking on; the youngest was outside the front door with only a torn shirt on. He
only found a small
portion of bread, a little piece of butter, and a little sugar in the house. This
was all they had

TUESDAY
June 17th

1972
People living in Norfolk Street and Gwydir Street made it clear at a meeting in
Cambridge that they want some peace and quiet - and soon. They want to be able to
park their cars free outside their own homes and are calling for rapid police
action to enforce parking bans in the area. Half the 1,400 vehicles recorded during
a 13-hour period were using the narrow roads in the area as a short cut between
Mill Road and East Road

1947
On Saturday, after a quarter of a century of service to the public Sergt
Policewoman Carnegie Brown, one of the pioneers of women police, goes into
retirement and the Cambridge Force loses its senior woman member and the Cambridge
public a well-known figure. The history of women police has evolved during her
lifetime. One of the earliest policewomen in the country, starting at a time when
women police were not generally recognised by local authorities, Miss Brown has
done much to over-ride any prejudice that might have been held at the time and now
has the satisfaction of knowing that women police are considered an essential part
of the police service. In the early days women police did only welfare work, such
as helping patch up matrimonial difficulties. Today they handle all matters
connected with women and children who are involved in any way with the police

1922
A number of young men were summoned for committing damage to a calico advertisement
sheet at Milton by throwing stones. Mr Jacobs had a field in Milton fen in which
were two scaffolding poles with the sheet
attached to them. The canvas hoarding had been absolutely destroyed. The sheet was
four yards by one
yard. This was not the first time this sort of thing had occurred; these men came
to the Fen and thought
their could do as they liked. The hoarding bore the words "The Motor Park"

1897
The stone throwing has once again commenced down by the river, but the boys who
congregate on the Victoria Bridge stand an extremely good chance of finding
themselves either in the "clutches of the Law", or in the river; and I am afraid if
they repeat the offence of throwing barrel hoops and logs of wood on the heads of
the boating fraternity who pass up the staircase at Winter's Boat Yard, they will
find themselves summarily dealt with – letter

WEDNESDAY

June 18th

1972
High-speed runs are to begin next week at Earith for the hovertrain being developed
by Tracked Hovercraft
Ltd, the Ditton Walk, Cambridge, division of the National Research and Development
Corporation. A more
powerful motor has been fitted after a three-week overhaul of the research vehicle
which has been constantly used since its first run last December, It is planned to
reach 110 m.p.h. - the diver of a high- powered sports car would be hard pressed to
achieve the same speed. Work is going on to finish the two-mile extension of the
track which will eventually be 12 miles long when speed of 300 miles an hour should
be possible.

1947
The fen floods and emergency payment to be made for damage done by them were the
subject of discussion in parliament. The Ministry of Agriculture said it was a
magnificent task on the part of farmers and workers to plant 1,950,000 acres of
wheat. He mentioned that nearly 700,000 acres of agriculture were flooded. The
floods were not due either to delay or negligence in carrying out drainage schemes,
or to war-time drainage
works carried out in the uplands. "We have no assurances that next winter nature
may not break even
the disastrous record of this year", he added. "Therefore much urgent work must be
done if next year our river systems are going to be able to carry the volume of
water that may descend on them"

1922
We are often led to believe that manners are changing for the worse. It is
refreshing there to read another
point of view. Mr Ladbroke Black says: "Twenty-five years ago the manners of an
undergraduate were stiff
and starchy. To have uttered a good-humoured apology would have been a derogation
of undergraduate dignity. Owing to the inexperience of my cox, aged nine, I
collided with several boats on the "backs" last week, and even carried away on the
blade of my oar the Japanese parasol with which an undergraduate in a
Canadian canoe was shading himself. In every case I was met with a cheering 'My
fault, I expect, sir!' and a
laughing word of encouragement to my cox"

1897
Willingham is preparing to celebrate the longest reign Queen Victoria's Diamond
Jubilee) by a feast to the
whole village in the form of a meat tea, to be partaken in the open air (weather
permitting) under thes shade
of some noble elm trees in the north end of the village. Provision is being made
for 800 adults and 400
children

THURSDAY

June 19th

1972
Early in 1974 a new county will be born. Its name: Cambridgeshire. Instinctively,
most Cambridge people
will look to Cambridge as the county town. The largest and most important community
in the new administrative area. Ask a Cambridge citizen about Peterborough and he
may describe is as industrial, a little characterless and distinctly Midlandish. Oh
yes, and it's due to take a few overspill Londoners ... The facts are somewhat
different. In 15 year's time Peterborough may be almost twice as large as
Cambridge, it will almost certainly have the largest representation on the county
council and its industry and commerce may be looking towards Cambridge for new
horizons

1947
To-day, their work of pumping the floods off the Fens completed, National Fire
service men who have been
taking part in "Operation Fenland" left the area for their home station. The men
were volunteers who came
from all over England. One said: "Its good to be able to see some concrete results
of the work in cleared
land after so many weeks of seeing nothing but a vast expanse of water going down
inch by inch". In many
places you see a land of smooth, dried grey mud, cracked into many-lined patterns
by the heat of the
sun. There is an air of desolation in the now-dry flood-wrecked farms. Yet the
hardy Fen people are already
moving back.

1922
A labourer of 1, Derby-road, Cambridge, was summonsed for not having control over a
horse attached to a cart in Petty-cury. P.C. Keeble said that the horse was left
unattended for 20 minutes. The horse was later found at the end of Guildhall-street
having apparently wandered there on its own. It was apparently making its way to
the police court (Laughter). Defendant said the had been driving the animal for a
number of years and had not had any trouble with it. He was fined 5s.

1897
Cambridge will have its bonfire on Jubilee night and from the nature of the site we
shall have it all to
ourselves. Midsummer Common is to be the venue, and as that is about the flattest
part of Cambridge there is not much prospect of its being seen beyond the limits of
the town, although should the fire be a big one and the night fairly dark, the glow
in the sky ought to be seen all over the fen country. One of the most
interesting experiments will be that of the search- light on Ely cathedral. The
great shaft of light sent
out by the search-light, first in one direction and then another, should send a
message not only to
Cambridge, but over a great portion of East Anglia – editorial

FRIDAY

June 20th
As President of the Cambridge Antiquarian Society, I am aware of the many calls for
help received by the
handfull of professional archaeologists in the city and county. A full-time
professional archaeologist,
appointed by the area authority, would be able to supervise and plan much of the
work. Some authorities
have already created such posts. There is an immense fund of goodwill in the
present younger generation
which needs to be channelled and encouraged. I write to plead with your readers to
press their local
representatives into an active realisation of their responsibilities. The problem
is urgent - letter from
Christopher Parish, Cambridge

1947
Miss Cambridge 1947 was last night chosen from about a dozen young girls who
entered for the competition at the Summertime Ball in the Guildhall. Arranged by
Billy Kaye, the ball which was in the modern manner, had non- stop dancing to three
bands, one of them the Orquestra Cubanos, providing a complete rhumba session. The
competitors were called on the platform and the best three chosen by two judges.
They were then placed in order of merit by the volume of applause received from the
audience. The winners were 1 Miss Margaret Bale, 2 Miss Gwen Aves, 3 Miss Jean
Kirby

1922
The annual church parade organised by the Soham Fire Brigade and Friendly
Societies, in aid of Addenbrooke's Hospital, was held on Sunday, and once more
upheld its reputation as being one of the leading functions of its kind in the
county. Large crowds attended the proceedings, and graced by favourable weather,
the event was a great success. The decorated car, proverbial to Hospital Sundays,
brought up the rear of the procession and depicted a hospital ward. During the last
year 11,000 patients had been treated at Addenbrooke's, 170 of which come from
Soham, whose contribution during that period amounted to about 8d per head of the
population

1897
Such has been the general progress during the Victorian era that it is difficult
from the point of view of today to recall the Cambridge of 1837. In the year of her
Majesty's accession but few houses stood on the marshy spot which we now know as
the populous district of New Town. There were a few residents in Newnham and some
scattered dwellings in the neighbourhood of New-square while beyond on the
Newmarket-road lay Barnwell of historic note. Chesterton, as a part of Cambridge,
was confined to the outgrowth of the town in the neighbourhood of Castle Hill and a
plan of the town stops short at the Mill-road corner of Parker's Piece. In 1837 the
population would be about 21,000. Recently it has been estimated at over 50,000.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY

June 23rd
1972
Car parking facilities at New Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, have sparked a row
between
the National Union of Public Employees and the hospital administration. N.U.P.E.
claim that while
consultants can park on the doorstep, other staff are being pushed to the site's
outskirts.

1947
The temptation caused by a salvage dump containing equipment which was expected by
two men to be
"broken up and thrown away" led to their appearance at the Cambs Petty Sessions on
Saturday. Defendants pleased guilty to being concerned in stealing four petrol
motors and generators to the value of £40 from the salvage dump at Waterbeach
Aerodrome. One said "About a fortnight ago I was working on the dump with a
civilian driver called "Spike". He asked me if I could get some engines. He said he
could sell the engines and make some money and would stand me a drink sometime".
Defendant said he understood from "Paddy" that the engines were to be broken up and
he thought they would be thrown away

1922
Midsummer Fair was proclaimed this morning by the Mayor (Councillor G.P. Hawkins)
when crowds of
people attended to witness the time-honoured ceremony. The old cry of "Biggest fair
I've seen for years" suggests that the Fair is still growing. Thurston's roundabout
are again present and number about six in all. They include their famous golden
dragons, gondolas and motor scenic railways. Three circuses and numerous "laugh and
grow fat" shows make up a good square mile of pleasure ground. There are the usual
crockery and sweet stalls, rock kings, cheap jacks, fortune tellers and the like in
unusual profusion. An
objectionable feature this year is a diabolical engine that emits a banshee-like
wail at frequent intervals. It ought to be smothered.

1897
Providence set the seal of approval on the absolutely flawless celebration of Queen
Victoria's Jubilee. Cambridge Market-place presented a particularly attractive
spectacle with the Guildhall illuminated and the long lines of coloured lamps;
above all with the moving masses of eager folk, who had come out in the best of
tempers to be amused. One or two cranky people pretended to be shocked at the
extreme naughtiness
of letting off a few squibs, which was not to be compared with the imprudence of
running heavy 'busses through the narrow and crowded Cury and Market-hill. A
remarkably beautiful sunset was succeeded by the exquisite Jubilee twilight
mingling into the dawn of the longest day; and in Cambridge, as elsewhere,
everybody who went to bed - and most folks sought that sensible repose – did so
with high hopes of the morrow

TUESDAY

June 24th
1972
Six months of commercial disaster have brought new doubts about the future of
Stansted Airport, scene of one of Britain's biggest and most bitter planning
battles. Essex County Council have long made it clear that they want to see the
airport shut down by the early 1980s. Their view is based on the Government's
rejection of Stansted and subsequent choice of Foulness as the site for London's
third airport. But recent events suggest Stansted could fade and die long before
1980. But is Stansted's future as an airport really that gloomy? In recent years
the volume of traffic handled has grown enormously. Passenger figures have jumped
from 13,991 in 1967-68 to more than half a million last year
1947
An afternoon and evening literally crammed with entertainment for both spectators
and competitors took place on the Histon recreation ground when Messrs Chivers and
Sons held their annual sports day. Major E.R. Dudgeon (Eastern Divisional Food
Officer) said "There are no more outstanding products for quality than those
produced by Messrs Chivers & I want to congratulate both management and workers on
the great job they are doing. They send the fame of this island to the four corners
of the earth"

1922
At the meeting of the Rural District Council the Sanitary Committee reported that
remedies were being applied to the Histon Brook, and meanwhile no more effluent was
being discharged into the brook. Mr Chivers was doing everything in his power to
see that the nuisance was being dealt with. Application had been received from
Grantchester for a parish dump. Mr Francis remarked that all parishes should be
asked to do the same sort of thing. There was so much tinned food consumed now, and
the tins could not be destroyed in any way, so parishes should find some suitable
dump for them.

1897
The festivities in Cambridge (for Victoria's Jubilee) were inaugurated on Monday
evening with a cyclists' lantern parade and a more successful commencement it would
have been difficult to suggest. Over a hundred cyclists attended by far the greater
portion being in costume or having their machines decorated. The cyclists assembled
in the Priory Grounds, Newmarket-road. A large crowd gathered in the neighbourhood
and hailed
with applause the decorated machines as they approached. The first prize for the
best decorated machine was awarded to Mr Dunn who had made his machine represent
the Indian jungle. A deer's head was shown from the front of the machine in the
middle of grasses and evergreen, while behind, monkeys sported among the ferns and
vegetation. Mr Dunn himself was attired in the garb of a hunter.

WEDNESDAY

June 25th
1972
Labour councillors will ask the city council next week to build moderately priced
houses - for sale to their tenants and private buyers - on land at Arbury Road,
Cambridge, which the council plan to sell to property speculators. The six-acre
site off Arbury Road - between St Laurence Junior School and the newly built
multi-storey council flats - is now on offer to developers prepared to give a good
price and willing to draw up a development scheme acceptable to city planners. Some
property sources have suggested that the land
could be worth £500,000 to the city council

1947
Plans for providing Airey houses at a number of villages in the Chesterton R.D.C.
area in lieu of permanent brick houses are being prepared. The Ministry of Health
have ruled that during the next 18 months, rural authorities must erect one Airey
house per three houses constructed. The architect is preparing revised lay-out
plans for the sites at Fulbourn, Teversham, Longstanton and Elsworth. A lay-out
plan for Coton, providing for a total of 54 houses was approved. Housing progress
up to May 29th 1947 reveals 77 houses completed (includes 31 prefabs, 4 bungalows
and 5 Swedish), 136 permanent houses and 19 temporary houses in course of erection

1922
The report of Chesterton R.D.C. Housing Committee showed numerous applications had
been received for a reduction in rent of the Council houses. After discussion it
was decided that the rent should be £20 per annum where the total income was 50
shillings a week or over, and £17 per annum when the income was less. The Architect
reported that the final accounts for the erection of 36 houses in Comberton,
Haslingfield, Horningsea, Lt Shelford and Willingham had been sanctioned by the
Ministry

1897
One of the most interesting events of the Jubilee week was the dinner to 1,000 aged
people of Cambridge which took place on Parker's Piece. From 10 a.m. an army of
helpers 400 strong, all as busy as bees, were engaged in preparing the tents, two
in number, for the expected guests. The old people began to arrive very early, with
beaming faces and expectant eyes. "It's not the dinner so much", said an old lady
of some 75 summers, "it's taking part in the Jubilee dinner and meeting with all
the others". Gowns of antique stuff, redolent of sweet lavender, that had lain by
for years protected against the ravages of mother, were
brought out in honour of the occasion. One old gentleman had hunted up a pair of
white jean trousers that he went courting in 50 years ago.

THURSDAY

June 26th
1972
The city council are to continue their campaign to eventually take control of 22
villages around Cambridge. When the city council put forward their take-over plan
more than a year ago, it met with total opposition from all the villages concerned.
The city council have on a number of occasions claimed that by taking an area
around the city within a radius of roughly eight miles they would form an ideally
sized 'district council' under the new local government shake-up

1947
"I think the people who have fought in favour of Newmarket remaining in Suffolk
have fought brilliantly - by discouraging discussion and crying 'We want Suffolk,
we want Suffolk' they have beaten all the thinking people in the town and I take my
hat off to them". So declared Mr W.J. Taylor, one-time chairman of Cambridgeshire
County Council and prime mover behind the Council's proposal to include Newmarket
in a new Cambridgeshire. He condemned - in no uncertain terms - the general apathy
he claimed existed among the people of Newmarket with regard to the boundary
question.

1922
A party of about sixty fruitgrowers and farmers had a very enjoyable and
instructive outing to Croxton Park. Arriving at the fruit farm, the first thing
that the growers remarked "What a crop of Monarch plums". It was evident that every
variety had a very heavy-crop, even such as Lane's Prince Albert apple and Emneth
Early apple, whilst the gage crop hang like grapes on the branches. About 100 acres
are under fruit cultivation.

1891
It is a matter of satisfaction that the subscriptions which have been received by
the Jubilee Dinner Committee were sufficient to give a tea to some 4,000 school
children of Cambridge between the ages of seven and 12. A mug and plate was
provided for each child, and the plates when they sat down were furnished with
bread and butter and two lumps of cake. Once in the enclosure they were each
presented with a medal commemorating the Jubilee. Until tea commenced the
enclosure was a perfect babel with the childrens' chatter. Far more children than
expected came, and some of the school teachers had written their own tickets. Not a
few of the children attending were obviously either over or under the age which had
been
decided. All were soon provided for and the committee were able to keep
replenishing the tables. As they finished tea the children left the tables, and,
shouting, rompted and danced to the band's music. The sight was enough to set the
milk of human kindness surging through the heart of the most misguided misanthrope

FRIDAY

June 27th
1972
Although the war ended 27 years ago the little patch of Cambridge around Alexandra
Street has a distinct 1940s look. In common with all the little alleyways off Petty
Cury, Alexandra Street is in the throes of the Lion Yard re-development scheme. The
old is being swept away by the demolition gangs to make way for the new and soon
the whole face of the area will begin to change. The first phase of the project -
the multi-storey car park - is due to open at the end of next week. Work on the
second stage - the demolition of the southern side of Petty Cury and the building
of shops and service roads on the Lion Yard - is already under
way and is expected to take about two years. The third stage - the building of a
large central library - will start soon after this.

1947
It is the opinion of the Headmaster of Chesterton Modern School that every boy
there is two years retarded in certain subjects. When presenting his report at
yesterday's Speech Day and prize-giving he said "My estimate is that every boy in
this school is two years retarded in many subjects - such as mental work, where
there was no teacher during the war, science, where there was no teacher for a long
period, and art, where there was a great variation of teacher and method". He knew
a number of parents realised that, because
many of them were only too anxious to have their boys return to school after the
school-leaving age had been reached. Last year 29 returned voluntarily, and 22 of
these were coming back again in September

1922
The Chief Scot, Lieut.-General Sir R.S.S. Baden-Powell is on a visit to Cambridge
and yesterday witnessed a Scout rally by the Cambridge & District Boys Scouts in
Queens' College Grove. On entering the Grove the Chief was surrounded by Scouts,
who had been in ambush. They cried his Zulu name as they gathered around him and
then sang him a chorus of welcome called "Ingonyama". Translated the worlds sung
mean "He is a lion. He is a lion. He is greater than a lion. He is an hippopotamus"

1897
Here and there among the little folk : impressions of an onlooker. The five immense
tents pitched on Parker's Piece were crammed with youngsters full of the restless
energy of youth. What a sight it was to see them come dancing down the various
roads leading to Parker's Piece, swarming over the iron fences, racing across the
greensward, and roguishly crying the policemen on duty in the vicinity of the
feast. Not one could walk sedately or cease from whistling for very joy. The
desertion of teachers, the near approach of the end of the Jubilee holiday,
everything was forgotten in the delight of the children's day.

LOOKING BACK by Mike Petty

MONDAY
June 30th

1972
A Mid-Anglia firm claim to have pocketed a world market with a new electronic
calculator announced
yesterday in London. Sinclair Radionics Ltd of St Ives Mill, who are mainly known
for their hi-fi
equipment, launched the Sinclair Executive calculator, which is smaller than a 5p
bar of chocolate. The Executive is 5 1/2 inches long, 2 inches wide and just over
1/4 inch thick, and will easily fit in the breast pocket of a suit. It will sell
for £70. The calculator uses 7,000 transistors, 10 times as many as in the normal
colour television set. The calculator has an illuminated display of up to eight
digits. It will add, subtract, divide and multiply instantaneously.

1947
Pembroke College, Cambridge has celebrated its Sexcentenary. The celebrations took
the form of a
luncheon and garden party during which valuable manuscripts and college plate were
on show. The
display of college plate included two irreplaceable cups. One has a curse
associated with it. This is the Anathema cup. It bears the inscription "Who shall
alienate it, let him be anathema". For this reason when, during the Civil War, all
the College silver was sent to the King, the lid only was sent, and the Cup kept
back to defeat the curse

1922
"Sir. At one time I was a fairly constant user of the Free Library, but of late my
visits are not so
frequent for the sole reason that one cannot sit down and read with ease and
comfort. As I enter the Library I am watched. I am stared at practically the whole
time I am there, and when I leave the eyes of some official stare at me until I am
off the premises" - A FRIEND OF THE LIBRARY

"Sir. I am in the Free Library practically every week day during the year, but I
have never seen any member of the staff either "killing time" or "staring round
private corners". They always appear to me to be well occupied; but however busy
they are they are always most obliging and go to a very great deal of trouble to
find out information if any is required". - ANOTHER READER

1897
In commemoration of the Great Jubilee of her Majesty, a meat tea was provided for
poor married couples residing in the East Ward of Chesterton. A field belonging to
Mr R.H. Lord on Scotland-road was secured for the occasion. Some 500 adults sat
down to the meat tea which consisted of rounds of beef, legs of mutton and hams..
The meat had been admirably cooked in the kitchens of Clare College. After tea the
men were supplied with tobacco, tobacco boxes and pipes and snuff and snuff boxes
while strawberries were provided for the women

TUESDAY
July 1st

1972
"For many years until recently we at Milton have suffered the stench from the
city's sewage farm.
Milton has developed enormously in recent years into a thriving community. We hope
to develop a large recreational area for boatmen, fishermen, picnicking etc to
which people will be welcomed from elsewhere. Now however as a blow to all these
hopes comes the suggestion to site a gypsy encampment on our boundary. It also
appears we shall have to suffer the northern by-pass nearby and extra traffic with
it. We ask, is this fair?" - letter from D.Pearson, chairman of Milton Parish
Council
1947
Well known and a popular figure in Cambridge musical circles for many years, Mr
Percy Cowell, Musical
Director at the Dorothy Cafe, died at his home. He was 61. Born in Cambridge he was
first employed in the
office at Messrs Eaden Lilley's, playing the piano in his spare time. In the early
twenties he took up his
musical career seriously. At one time he ran a band at the Rendezvous and several
years ago he had a band at the Trocadero restaurant, Piccadilly, London. When the
New Dorothy Cafe was opened in 1930 his band was installed as a resident one and he
was fully employed until the early months of the war, when he was joined by Mr Reg
Cottage and his band

1922
The great week to which we have all looked forward so eagerly and for which such
extensive preparations have been made, will shortly be upon us. The Royal Show
promises to be one of outstanding importance. This will be the third visit of the
Show to Cambridge. It is probably true to say that in no other country in the
world is there to be found a show of anything like the same magnitude as that which
will be seen on the Trumpington-road ground.

1897
The Great Jubilee was successfully celebrated by the inhabitants of the village of
Newnham amid every
demonstration of loyalty and public rejoicing. The form of celebration chosen was a
fete champetre held on
Corpus Cricket Ground. Pinafores were given to a number of girls, and caps to boys;
silver bangles were given to 12 older girls and to the old folks calico and flannel
was presented. The evening's rejoicing were
inaugurated by an excellent tea which included ham, beef, cakes, strawberries and
cream, and buns and
biscuits galore, about 200 persons partaking of the bountiful repast.

WEDNESDAY
July 2nd

1972
Cambridge - "an environmental jewel" - is in danger of becoming an environmental
slum because of the motor car, according to the Parliamentary Under Secretary of
State for the Environment, Mr Eldon Griffiths. And the only way to stop the rot, in
his opinion, is to keep cars out of the city centre and to speed ahead with the
building of the Western and Northern by-passes. "The sooner a pedestrian precinct
can be established in the city centre, and later extended, the better"

1947
Mr W.E.Doran, Chief engineer to the River Great Ouse Catchment Board, has announced
plans costing £5,000,000 to prevent flooding of the Fens. The plans, which are
described as being able quite definitely to give safety to the fens, are a
modification of the scheme proposed in 1942 but shelved owing to the war. The 1942
proposal provided for the cutting of a new river from Denver to St Germans, with a
balancing reservoir at Denver to accommodate the flow when the tidal door was shut.
A new channel 30 miles long is planned from Denver to Barton Mills to cut off flood
water from the high ground before it reaches the embanked sections of the fenland
rivers. This channel up to the Lark is part of a previous scheme which provided for
a cut-off channel going right up to Grantchester.

1922
No one will be suprised at the chorus of indignation called forth by the appeal of
a shopkeeper for the
waiving of the Thursday half-holiday during Show week. The Royal Show is a great
education and it is most
natural that shop assistants should want to see it themselves and to prevent those
who want to go by demanding their services during the customary half-holiday would
be to show a lack of consideration of
which I do not think many employers would be guilty – TABLE TALK

1897
The Hunts Agricultural Society, which can boast of being senior to the Royal, held
its 61st annual
exhibition in the county town. The Jubilee celebrations have exercised a depressing
effect upon holiday-makers and that fact will sufficiently account for the somewhat
small attendance of visitors. It is a good
sign that the speakers dwelt far less than is customary upon the topic of
agricultural depressions. We may
fairly assume that the worst is over and that while the agricultural interest is
not perhaps sharing in the
wonderful prosperity of the country in so great a degree as other branches of
industry, yet even they
have escaped from the low levels so generally prevalent a few years ago.

THURSDAY
July 3rd

1972
The announcement that Stansted Airport was expected to handle 3.5 million
passengers a year by 1980 has again raised the spectre of a major London airport
being based at Stansted. But officials of both county and
amenity groups are confident that this "back door" method of building up the
airport could be blocked. The
3.5 million figure, a 600 per cent increase on the present passenger flow, came
from the British Airport
Authority. The B.A.A. made their shock predictions despite the closure of two
Stansted based airlines this
year. The chairman of Essex County Council Planning committee said today he through
the figures projected by B.A.A. were "quite unrealistic. I do not think we have
anything to worry about"

1947
"Sir - Living in Newmarket Road, Cambridge, in close vicinity to Christ Church I
would like to ask whether
this road is intended to make up for the now closed Brooklands motor race course?
The speed limit seems to
be double that of other roads of the town, judging by the racing prevailing among
country buses, motor
lorries of the heaviest type, even 60 feet long ones, and motor cycles, the
throttles of which to open in
this region of private houses seems to be point of honour. It seems to me high
time the police came with
their stop watches, specially in the late afternoon" - letter signed "Ignotus"

1922
A glance at the huge entries in all sections of the Royal Show will give one some
idea of the heavy burden
imposed on the Railway Company, and the colossal task of arranging for the
distribution of traffic. The
G.E.R. has built unloading docks situated at the Trumpington signal-box on the
Long-road, Cambridge,
where there is also another entrance to the Show ground. The work of unloading
machinery and materials
has been in progress since May 25th and considerably more than 2,000 tons will have
been handled before the closing date for delivery. The intensive period will be
when the livestock are received. About sixty special trains have been booked to
arrive commencing at 3.40am on Saturday morning.

1897
The Cambridge employees of Messrs Rattee and Kett, Station-road, had their annual
outing to Scarborough.
The party, numbering upwards of 100, left Cambridge by special train (to which, by
the courtesy of Mr
Holditch, the G.E.R. station-master, three saloons had been attached for their
convenience) at 5 a.m.,
Scarborough being reached at 11 a.m. Through the generosity of the firm
refreshments were liberally
supplied both going and returning.

FRIDAY
July 4th

1972
It is unlikely that many ratepayers will visit the Shire Hall in Cambridge this
week to see how their
money is being spent on the latest chapter in the De Vere Hotel saga. They should.
Almost everybody agrees that the city could do with that 200-bedroom hotel at Mount
Pleasant. The proposal by De Vere Hotels to build a £2 million hotel was originally
approved by the County Council but the Environment Minister claimed that the
development was too large for the site. If the hotel is not built the developers
could claim compensation of up to £500,000 & ratepayers would have to foot the bill

1947
Many of the German p.o.w. recently in the camp at Cambridge have been sent to other
parts of the country,
and I was shown this week a copy of the final issue of the 1025 camp newspaper.
This starts with a farewell
message by the C.O. (Major A.J. Ferris) who writes "I had hoped to retain the
Company as such until repatriation thinned us right down but Higher Authority has
ruled differently and now 1025 has to disband – you to work in agriculture and I go
to civil life. The year of this Company's existence will I hope not be the
worst of your time in captivity. I wish you all the best of luck when you
eventually get back to your own
country, and I hope that your return will not be long delayed" - TABLE TALK

1922
His Royal Highness the Duke of York unveiled the War memorial which has been
erected in Cambridge. The ceremony was attended by thousands of people and was of a
deeply impressive nature. It was raining heavily as the Prince mounted the platform
for the unveiling ceremony. The band played the opening bar of the hymn "O God, our
help in ages past" to the accompaniment of rain drumming on hundreds of umbrellas.
A few minutes later the rain ceased and the rest of the ceremony was carried though
amid brilliant sunshine. The Prince pulled a rope which released the drapery
revealing the bronze figure of an infantryman.

1897
A trades and cycle exhibition was opened at the Cambridge Corn Exchange yesterday.
A large part of the
exhibition is devoted to the cycling trade and local firms are showing cycles of
the finest and best patterns. At the stand of the Cycle Supply Co, (whose place of
business is 23 Sussex-street) can be seen some fine specimens of the King,
Granville, Ensign and Vanguard Cycles. The King cycles are made by the firm and
three of the machines exhibited have been made to order for Cambridge people. The
machines are a remarkably neat and well-finished lot. Ladies' machines can be
obtained from £9 and gents' from £8

LOOKING BACK by Mike Petty

MONDAY
7th July

1972
A group of Bar Hill villagers last night decided after more than two hours of
argument, that they would like
to see a Community Association formed there. Mr Rodney Dale, who had headed a
special working party explained that such an organisation would seek out the needs
of the community as well as co-ordinating village activities. At the end of the
meeting the chairman of the Parish Council said it had been a "difficult,
irritating and niggling meeting". "But", he added, "it is right that we should have
conflicting views, and it
is good and healthy that they are aired"

1947
Men and women from all parts of Cambridgeshire attended the British Legion County
Rally on Parker's Piece, Cambridge, on Sunday afternoon. In the course of an
address the Rev J.N. Duckworth mentioned the presence of German prisoners of war
amongst the crowd of onlookers and, welcoming them, said : "There is no enmity
here". "We are", he went on, "living in very, very dangerous days. We are
threatened with losing all those things for which we have fought and struggled, and
for which we have endured. The friendship and
comradeship of those several long years of war seem to be melting away. In their
place there was fear and the seeds of distrust were being sown as never before.
The word had reached a state where people, in modern parlance 'just couldn't care
less'"

1922
Before a large assembly at the Senate House his Royal Highness, the Duke of York,
K.G. had the degree of
Doctor of Law conferred on him by the Chancellor of the University, the Earl of
Balfour. When the Duke of York was conducted by the Esquire Bedell to his position
before the Chancellor, a storm of applause broke from the audience, which, led from
the gallery, soon developed into a cheer. The Orator said; "Our Duke
lives - as we read every day in the Press - a life of toil and thought for his
people. We hope that in Cambridge, at least, he feels free from toil and anxiety
and is here with pleasure and freedom of mind"

1897
Please note. We shall sell for the remainder of the Jubilee Year, 1897, our
marvellous "Commemoration Tea" at 1/4 per lb, the value of which was about 8/- per
lb at the time of the Queen's Accession. Also other Goods at a like reduction,
making the present purchasing power of a Crown nearly equal to that of a Sovereign
in 1837 - advert by Warren & Son, 51 Bridge Street, Cambridge

TUESDAY
8th July
1972
The Government amendment to the Local government Bill retaining Newmarket in
Suffolk has been agreed by the Commons. The amendment which has been bitterly
opposed by Newmarket Urban Council means that Suffolk's borders will remain largely
unchanged, but East and West Suffolk will become one county. At Newmarket today,
the chairman of the urban council, Coun. Leslie Bell said "This now starts the
fight". Representatives of the urban council, Newmarket Rural Council and Ely Rural
and Urban Councils are to meet the county council members and officials to see if
anything can be done to reverse the ruling. The four councils have been working
together for more than a year on the basis that they were to form a new district
council within Cambridgeshire

1947
Flying officer R.W. Ford was ferrying a Meteor jet-aircraft from Gloucester to West
Raynham yesterday, when turbine trouble forced him to attempt a landing at
Cambridge Airport. He crash-landed in a barley field about 200 yards short of the
airfield. The tail unit broke off, and the aircraft turned completely round before
skidding to a stop. Flying Officer Ford stepped out, uninjured except for a chip in
the skin on the bridge of his nose. Within an hour he was on his way in an Anson
that had been sent to fetch him. Crash-apparatus
from the airport was quickly on the scene and R.A.F., Waterbeach, provided a guard.

1922
The great agricultural city on the Trumpington-road (the Royal Show) is in full
blast today - in more senses than one. A stiff south-westerly gale had been
sweeping over the show ground for the greater part of last night and it continued
with unbated strength during the day. The tents and shedding for the most part
withstood the gale remarkably well but a dozen of the larger structure were blown
down wholly or in part and the Mayor's tent was levelled to the ground. In the
latter a man was sleeping but escaped unhurt, although the circumstances gave rise
to an erroneous rumour that a man had been killed

1897
Chesterton Board of Guardians referred to the terrible disaster in Essex of a few
days ago. They could not tell exactly the amount of distress that had occurred
through the storm but it was something enormous - over
£200,000. An area of some 70 square miles had been affected and it would not only
affect the tenant farmers but also the labourers very materially. Farmers, market
gardeners, nurserymen and also the labourers all found their harvest gone as it
would be a complete failure. Farm after farm had been so injured that there was not
an acre of corn upon many farms.

WEDNESDAY
9th July

1972
The Cambridge By-pass Inquiry began their 66th session yesterday with a spell of
market square haggling
between Milton village and the Department of the Environment. Milton Parish Council
are worried about the proximity of the Northern By-pass to the village and the
effect of an interchange on the A10. They had put forward an alternative by-pass
route but offered yesterday to withdraw it if the Department made three
concessions. The Department offered two but hesitated on the third. Said the
Inspector "It seems to be what
is called a piece of horse-trading". The clerk to the Parish Council, Mr Kenneth
Humphries, said that the
proposed western by-pass for Milton should be built concurrently with the Northern
By-pass in order to cope
with the extra traffic.

1947
May I explain why St Matthew's Piece has not yet been restored to its former state.
It was requisitioned by
the War Department for a vehicle car-park. The surface and foundations were not
suitable for such purposes and the military authorities were told that their
vehicles would cause extensive damage to the playing area and would involve them in
a heavy claim for compensation. When the War Department released the site the
Corporation lodged a substantial claim for reinstatement. The claim has now been
referred to higher authority for arbitration. My committee sincerely regret that
the ratepayters of St Matthew's ward and their children in particular, have been
deprived of the use of this ground for so long – letter from G.F.Nobbs, Chairman
Cambridge commons and cemetery committee

1922
Anyone who has taken any note of the motor traffic in and out of Cambridge during
Royal Show week cannot fail to have been impressed with its volume, and the great
number of people who have been conveyed to and from the show by this means. Nothing
that has hitherto occurred at Cambridge has served to show so clearly what a factor
the motor vehicle has become in the life of the nation. Many visitors who a few
years ago would have stayed in the town and come and gone without spending a penny
outside the show ground

1897
The Cambridge Sewage Farm at Milton threatens to become a fruitful source of
friction between the Chesterton Rural Authority and the Cambridge Corporation. From
time to time complaints of a very serious nature are made concerning the odours
which arise from that establishment, coupled with further complaints of polluted
water in the public drains. It is clear that if something is not done to remedy the
nuisance we
shall have a recurrence of litigation.

THURSDAY
10th July

1972
A pirate radio station operating from a Cambridge council house was pounced on by
GPO officials and police yesterday. They took away a transmitter and a cassette
recorder. The raid on the house came exactly
six minutes after the illegal radio station – calling itself Radio Caroline -
started its regular Sunday lunchtime pirate broadcast. For more than a year GPO
engineers have been trying to track down the wavelength and whereabouts of the
radio and using detector vehicles they closed in on the Cherry Hinton area. The
station had been broadcasting fairly regularly each Sunday for almost 18 months

1947
Sir - This week Histon villagers should normally be celebrating the traditional
age-old annual Feast, but alas! When the children and their accompanying parents
assembled to partake in the amusements that one is
accustomed to find pitched on the village green, they found this pleasant open
space as bare as Mother
Hubbard's cupboard. Excepting for one or two years during the war the oldest
inhabitant states that she
never remembers the showmen missing Histon feast and the family of Thurston have
always been associated with the festival. The Histon council includes many people
who have migrated to the village and personally have no room for such traditional
customs as village feasts. - letter
1922
On the petition by the parishioners of Thaxted for a faculty directing the removal
of "certain Sinn Fein and
'Red' flags from his church" the Rev Canon Noel, Vicar of Thaxted, Essex, appeared
before the Chancellor of the Diocese of Chelmsford on Saturday. Captain John Oliver
Barbrook described the various occasions on
which the flags were torn down. On one occasion a number of persons invaded the
church with ladders and
endeavoured to pull down the flag. There was a struggle in which the vicar took
part. Eventually an invader
removed the Red Flag which he put in his pocket. The vicar grabbed at his pocket
but got the wrong one and
pulled out a Union Jack. The invader then said to the police - "I give this man
(indicating the vicar) in charge for picking my pocket". The Chancellor found that
petitions had made good their claims for the removal of the flags.

1897
The annual inspection of the Third (Cambs) Volunteer Battalion, Suffolk Regiment
took place at the
University Rifle Range. Various battalion movements were executed and the the
inspection concluded with a
sham fight in which the cycling section and the machne gun were opposed to the main
body of the troops. The sham fight would have been done better if the non-
commissioned officers in charge of the sections had not repeated the words too
quickly

FRIDAY
11th July

1972
Firms in Haverhill are having to go to the north-east to recruit workers and last
night a local councillor accused them of paying wages that were too low to interest
Londoners. "If you go to London and ask
skilled workers to come here on local rates of pay they will laugh in your face",
Coun. Mrs Vera Godden told members of the town's housing committee. One firm,
Halliburtons, had requested houses for 42 key workers from Sunderland. The firm had
found it impossible to attract labour from London through the Industrial Selection
Scheme. Since they put in their application two more firms in Haverhill had asked
for a total of 19 key worker homes. The Greater London Council would release only
25 houses for key workers.

1947
The Great Ouse Catchment Board yesterday resolved unanimously that the construction
of the relief channel
from Denver to St Germans be proceeded with as soon as possible; that the work of
preparing the plans for the cut-off channel up to the River Lark be completed at
once; that the work in the rivers above Denver Sluice be modified on the basis of
the construction of the cut-off channel and that a fifty years loan be arranged.
Another decision was that the Over barrier bank be heightened by three feet at a
cost of £40,000.

1922
The model of the soldier on the Cambridge War Memorial which, owing to an
unavoidable delay, had to be used for the unveiling ceremony last week, has to-day
been replaced by the actual bronze, so that the figure now in position is as it
will be seen for all time. The bronze was brought from the foundry at Thames Ditton
by motor lorry at four o'clock this morning. Mr Kett and ten men were in waiting
and so expeditiously was
the work carried out that by 8 o'clock the model figure had been taken down and the
other set up and fixed in
its proper position. A couple of hours later the scaffolding was removed

1897
The second annual meeting of the shareholders of the New Theatre, Cambridge, Ltd
was held at the Theatre.
The Chairman said it was difficult to select pieces that suited all classes. What
suited the undergraduates did not suit the townspeople, and the undergraduates were
some of their best patrons, and they had to cater for them very often, when they
would like to give, perhaps, a really better class entertainment. They did the best
they could. That was the reason that they had never played at a loss for a whole
week. One of the best sources of income in a small way was the hiring of opera
glasses

LOOKING BACK BY MIKE PETTY

MONDAY
14th July
1972
For simple country folk, such as myself, living to the north of Cambridge, the
Elizabeth Bridge is a godsend.
For a year now it has enabled me to leave my home, 17 miles from the city, at a
civilised hour and be at my
office desk within 30 minutes. And in the evenings all I have to do is find my lane
and with minimal trafffic
hold-ups be out on the A10 to Ely again. It now seems hard to remember than once
one allowed at least 20
minutes for the Newmarket road- Arbury road run at either peak hour: that to be
stuck interminably at Mitcham's Corner was a commonplace. Today my only wish is
that more and more improvements are allowed by the planners so that everyone can
enjoy a quality of life freed as much as possible from traffic pollution

1947
Homes specially intended for old people should be in towns rather than in the
country said Lord Amulree in
addressing the Woman Public Health Officers' Association Summer school in
Cambridge. It was a great
advantage to have the home in a town, he said. For a large majority of people a
home in the country did not
work at all. "Most of our population are townspeople and also, when they are
growing old, their interests
become rather contracted. Old people do enjoy calling on their friends' houses.
They like to go to the local
pub or to the pictures, and if they cannot do that they like to sit in the window
and watch other people going
to the pub and to the cinema"

1922
The monthly meeting of the Newmarket Urban Council was held in the new Council
Chamber at Godolphin House. The Chairman said the rooms were more convenient and
healthier for the Council and their staff than the old Town Hall where the staff
were labouring under great difficulties. Council might expect that under better
conditions they would get more work from the staff.

1897
Potato disease, we regret to say, has broken out in various parts of South
Lincolnshire where the acreage
devoted to the crop is as large as in any district in the kingdom. It is seldom
that the presence of the disease-fungus is detected so early in the season but the
atmosphere is laden with the diseased haulm. The intense heat at times experienced,
the torrential rains and the highly electrical conditions of the atmosphere have no
doubt all encouraged this early development of potato blight. But the efficacy of
sulphate of copper spraying has been so clearly demonstrated that growers may guard
their crops with almost absolute certainty against destruction

TUESDAY
15th July

1972
The Cambridge Arts Theatre has suffered "staggering" financial losses this year -
often £1,000 a week – and the Secretary and General Manager, Mr Andrew Blackwood,
said yesterday : "We can't go on like that. We would soon be out of business". The
reason for high production costs was that touring companies require
guarantees of £1,500 or more before they would visit Cambridge. Seat prices
generally ranged from 40p-90p
and 50p-£1. Audience attendance figures were 14,000 down on the year - and he
blamed Cambridge's impossible car parking situation for the loss

1947
Sir - I think it is scandalous that 31 trees should be removed from Newmarket Road,
Cambridge. This is easily the least imposing approach to the town and the removal
of the trees will make it ten times worse. Why is this road always chosen when a
site has to be found for a new refuse dump. Why has it such a bad road surface for
such an important main thoroughfare. Those things just have to be tolerated, I
suppose, but I sincerely hope that Newmarket Road may retain its one redeeming
feature - the trees - letter from L.R. Thurston

1922
Something more than a talking-to ought to be administered to the boys who have
committed so much wilful damage to the remains of the Barnwell Military Hospital
adjoining the Newmarket-road just beyond the Cambridge Borough boundary. For some
reason the boiler house and one complete section of the wooden hutments have been
left, apparently totally uncared for, and are rapidly going to wreck and ruin. The
site of the hospital, overgrown with weeds and littered with debris, forms a happy
hunting ground for children who
are able to get through the gap where the gates used to be. The bolder and most
mischievous of the boys have found the remaining buildings a tempting target for
stones, and scarcely a pane of glass remains undamaged

1897
The cathedral city of Ely presented an unwontedly animated appearance when it was
the rendezvous for the
annual festival of the Ely branch of the Church of England Temperance Society. The
promotion of
temperance, the reformation of the intemperate and the removal of the causes that
lead to intemperance are the main objects of the society and it works by means of
police court and prison gate missions, labour homes, racecourse and van missions,
inebriate homes etc. The preacher remarked that the society worked not against
publicans or the drink but against drunkenness, which was a burden upon their
country and the blackest spot in this year of thanksgiving

WEDNESDAY
16th July

1972
Cambridgeshire planners '£3 million idea of turning the historic Battle of Britain
airfield at Duxford into a
gigantic sports complex has been turned down by the Environment Minister, Mr Peter
Walker. And Mr Walker has, temporarily at least, locked the doors on the Home
Office's present plans for turning parts of the
airfield into a Borstal. The decision could mean that the airfield will be derelict
for years to come. Mr Walker told the planners that he is not satisfied that the
impact of noise, traffic and crowds on the Duxford
area, which the sports complex would bring, would be either tolerable or justified

1947
In order to complete the Housing Committee's anticipated programme of 5,000 houses,
the following
additional site are to be purchased subject to the approval of the Minister of
Health. Arbury Road-King's
Hedges (number of houses 1,300); Coleridge Road (180), Queen Edith's Way (250),
Cherry Hinton Road (365). Total number of houses 2,095.

1922
An event of unique interest and of considerable local importance took place in the
Vicarage meadow at
Haddenham in the form of a pageant entitled "Ye Olde Towne of Hadnam". As may be
judged it was an attempt - and one which was eminently successful - to portray the
history attaching to that village. That it aroused much interest in the district
may be gathered from the fact that well over 100 people were present. A large
contingent journeying from Ely, while all the villages around contributed their
quota and so helped to make the pageant exceed the highest anticipations of the
promoters

1897
The villages of Swaffham Prior and Swaffham Bulbeck were the scene of an
interesting ceremony when the
marriage of Miss Isabella Maude Allix of Swaffham Prior House and Captain Edward
Young of the Royal Engineers took place. The church was filled to overflowing and
the aisle was lined with eight non-commissioned officers all of whom, to judge by
the array of medals on their breasts, were accustomed to perform a services
somewhat more arduous and less ornamental than on this occasion. The bride wore a
dress of rich ivory satin with chiffon sleeves trimmed with old Limerick lace and
sprays of myrtle and orange blossom. After signing the register the bride and
bridegroom were met at the vestry by three little boys carrying baskets of flowers
and the little fellows walking backwards in true court style strewed the bride's
path to her carriage. After the ceremony the bridal party returned to Swaffham
Prior House, passing under a triumphal arch which had been erected over the lodge
gate.

THURSDAY
17th July

1972
A Cambridge architect, Mr David Page, has blamed the Cambridgeshire planners and he
County Surveyor's
Department for the "boring conformity" of new housing estates in villages
surrounding Cambridge. He explained "There is a boring conformity from one village
to another of new building. All the windows seem to be coming from the same
factory, all the bricks are the same cheap sand-faced range, roof tiles are
similar, layouts are very seldom varied and all dominated by the County Surveyors
inflexible designs for forecourts and footpath. What an appalling state design has
been reduced to when the character built up over the centuries is completely
ignored and decimated in less than a quarter of a century"
1947
Cambridge has not yet produced any reports of flying saucers, but yesterday there
occurred the perfectly
genuine episode of The Flying Hay. The phenomenon was seen by Mr Philip Porteous,
engineer and manager of the Cambridge Waterworks Co as he was standing in his
garden at Fulbourn early yesterday afternoon. "I was looking at a field with hay
lying in it, when suddenly large quantities of the stuff rose straight up into the
air for some five hundred to a thousand feet and then floated off in a westerly
direction", he told a C.D.N. reporter. "What had happened was that a small
whirlwind had struck the field. I did not feel the effects myself, but I saw it
give a tree quite a shaking"

1922
A meeting was held in the Great Wilbraham Schoolroom with reference to a proposal
to join the parish
churches of Great and Little Wilbraham under one benefice. The Rev H.H. Appleford,
vicar of Great Wilbraham objected to the union. It would prevent men taking orders
and it was a failure at Brinkley and
en. No man, however strong or young, could work practically three parishes as Six-
Mile-Bottom was almost as good as a separate parish. At present it was two miles
from its parish church. But if it was joined to Westley it would be over three by
road and over two by short cuts over the fields. He had measured the
distance on his motor cycle, and the way to Westley was more uphill

1897
Croydon Wilds, aptly so called, is one of the most remote parts of England. Its few
inhabitants are housed
in a couple of roomy cottages and it was to one of these cottages that a
representative of the "Cambridge
Independent Press" penetrated, and had a talk with the most inspected [sic and
intelligent of the inhabitants,
Mr Smith, who has lived there for thirty-four years. His daughter, as the reporter
passed through the cottage garden, stood bright and blooming beneath the lintel.

FRIDAY
18th July

1972
Two large new city council housing estates - each with probably hundreds of homes -
are being planned for
Trumpington and at Fen Ditton, just outside the Cambridge boundary. The Trumington
site was the home of
the Royal Show some years ago and is expected to start a storm of controversy
because it involves land
regarded by the preservationists as being of high scenic value. The Fen Ditton
scheme, too, is unlikely to meet with much approval from the village authorities,
because it would greatly increase the community's size

1947
"From inquiries made of my friends I find that to-day more money is spent at the
greengrocers and fishmongers than at the grocers", Mr John Stamps, Deputy
Secretary, Family Welfare Association told a Summer School. Talking of housing he
pointed out that it was uniformly accepted that the rent to be paid by a family
should not exceed one sixth of the total income. "Before the war", he continued,
"people chose to live in a house, the rental of which they could afford. I wonder
how many are doing that today. What I am concerned about is the cost of houses for
purchase and the fact that in order to secure accommodation young people are
undertaking mortgage repayments considerably in excess of one-sixth of their
income. I wonder if they realise that this is to be a fixed charge over a long
period, and that whether one, two or three babies come along they will still have
this charge on their income"

1922
What will undoubtedly be enthusiastically welcomed by swimmers and bathers in the
immediate vicinity is the new bathing pool on Coldhams Common, Cambridge. The pool
is divided into two sections, the smaller being for the use of young children, and
the larger for boys, youths and men. The pools have been built into a running
stream of water from the Nine Wells, and in consequence fresh filtered water is
always entering the pools whilst that which has been used is being discharged at
the other end

1897
At the Cambridge Borough Police-court an Italian organ grinder was charged with
threatening to stick a knife into the abdomen of P.C. Barringer. It was found
necessary to engage an interpreter. In answer to the charge, prisoner said if the
constable was in his country and interfered they would put a knife through him, but
he did not mean that he would do it. He meant to say if the constable was in his
country he would have a knife put into him by someone else. The policeman said he
saw a woman playing an organ and as the street was full of traffic he requested her
to "move on". Prisoner, who was very angry exclaimed "Me will fight you; Me will
stick a knife in you"

LOOKING BACK BY Mike Petty

MONDAY
21st July
1972
It was the end of the road for the Cambridge By-pass inquiry yesterday. It died in
the afternoon at the tottering age of 72 days - and no-one shed a tear. It had
lingered through six tedious months and had
achieved notoriety as he longest public inquiry into a road scheme ever held in the
British Isles. There were
76 objections and scores of witnesses and counter- objectors and every nook, cranny
and cubby-hole of the
by-pass project was explored to the horizons of desperation and beyond. It was the
Inspector who raised the point which had occurred to everyone but which no one
liked to mention. "I do hope that I survive long enough to write my report", he
remarked casually one afternoon, "For all your sakes"

1947
"This was a sweepstake for a very excellent charity and there is really no
distinction in morality between this
and the lottery which takes place at the church bazaar" said Mr F.W.Elsworth
(Messrs Few and Kester) defending a man summonsed at Cambridge Petty Sessions on
Saturday for distributing four books of tickets in the Irish Hospital Sweepstakes.
He added "Public opinion is unquestionably of the view that the law on the subject
requires reform. There is at the moment a situation where there is one law for the
rich and another for the poor"

1922
The report of the Highways Committee of Chesterton Rural District Council was
presented by Mr Rowley who said the steam roller had been in their possession for
21 years. It required considerable repairs. Messrs
Aveling and Porter had been consulted and had reported that it would cost £500 to
repair the old roller. A new roller would cost £811 and the old roller would sell
for £200

1897
At Melbourn Petty Sessions the landlord of the Green Man, Shepreth was charged with
opening his licenced
premises for the sale of intoxicating liquor during prohibited hours. P.C. W.
Housden, stationed at Fowlmere, stated that on Sunday morning at 2.15 am he saw a
light at the Green Man publichouse. He saw a man come from a house a short distance
away, where there was singing and dancing. He went to the Green Man and was let in.
Witness went close to the public-house door and waited for him to come out. He
found he had a half- gallon bottle full of beer. The landlord's wife said 19th June
was Feast Day at Shepreth, At 9.30 the man ordered half-gallon and paid for it and
said he would call for it later. She drew the beer soon after it was paid for. It
was not taken away then but was called for at two o'clock when she just handed it
to him.

TUESDAY
22nd July

1972
Mid-Anglia police were very happy with their new Volvo patrol cars - until they
found that usin their VHF
radio cut the car's speed by about 15 miles and hour. Drivers doing 50 m.p.h. found
that when they made a radio call their speed dropped to 35 m.p.h. – alarming for
them and for anyone travelling behind. The Volvos bought on the insistence of the
Chief Constable in the face of opposition by some members of the police authority
came into service earlier this year. They have a special computerised fuel
injection system, and when drivers made radio calls the VHF signal sent the
computer haywire. The result was that the engine was starved of petrol supply and
the car quickly slowed down. But the mystery fault has been cured - by a
mechanic from Sweden and a roll of baking foil.

1947
The death occurred at the Catholic Nursing Home in Brooklands Avenue of Mr Edmund
Joseph Kett who has been ill for the past week. Mr Ket,t who was 85, was a partner
in the firm of Messrs Rattee and Kett, builders and contractors where he started as
a boy immediately on leaving school. He retired from the firm in 1925 when the
business became a limited company. During his time with the firm he was responsible
for the building of the Cambridge Catholic Church and was also connected with the
restoration of Arundel Castle, the Duke of Norfolk's country seat. This took 16
years to complete

1922
The prospect of a serious deficiency at the Botanic Garden is almost a certainty;
it is expected to be about £1,362. A suggestion has been made that the public
should be charged a small fee for admission, but there is a natural objection to
adopting this course, the garden having been open so long and so extensively used
by the public. A suggested alternative is that the garden should close at 5.30. A
further proposal is that the principal greenhouses should be closed and their
contents sold. Something will have to be done. The Garden practically ranks as a
public park. We are in danger of losing that park

1897
The Red Cow public house and premises adjoining in Guildhall-street, Cambridge,
belonging to Mrs Charles
Armstrong and forming three frontages are to be rebuilt in red brick and stone from
designs by Messrs Rowe & Scott, architects. Mr Armstrong is about to sell to the
Corporation a piece of the site to widen Guildhall-
street, which will be a public advantage and the erection of these buildings will
greatly improve the neighbourhood.

WEDNESDAY
23rd July

1972
Improvment to the A10 trunk road, including by-passes for Melbourn and Buntingford,
and new bridges at
Littleport and Foxton have been announced by Whitehall. The by-passes should be
started within the next 10
years and will cost in the region of £1 1/2 million. The Deputy County Surveyor for
Cambridgeshire said At
Foxton there are continuing delays at the crossing gates and there are regular
accidents. It has been a black spot for longer than I care to remember, and the
only way to stop it is to do away with the crossing, and the only way to do that is
to run a road bridge over it". The Chairman of the parish council said. "I am
honestly very pleased at the news; it is a major step forward. The next thing will
be to get the actual work done"

1947
Sir. It is very interesting to read that those in authority on our local Council at
last have abandoned the idea of spoiling Petersfield by spending nearly £2,000 on a
paddling pool and reverting to its former condition, the present static water tank
will therefore be demolished. Would it be out of place to suggest some sort of
supervision be given to safeguard the beautiful trees and shrubs from destruction
and grounds kept in decent condition. Perhaps, at the same time, those unsightly
and out of date notices "To the shelter" could be removed - letter from E.H.
Tatchell, 1 Willis Rd, Cambridge

1922
The marvels of Papworth Tuberculosis Colony have recently been further added to by
the completion of a nurses' home, two new hostels and new cottages. This great
achievement, being one more great stride along
the path of progress travelled so rapidly by that remarkable village settlement for
the consumptive, was fittingly celebrated when the new buildings were formally
opened by Sir Alfred Mond, the Minister of
Health. The hostels are admirably equipped in every respect and will bring joy to
the hearts of the single
men whose happy lot it will be to lodge in them. The cottages are for married men
who wish to bring their
wives and families to live with them

1897
Everyone in the Camp at Yarmouth is having a "real good time" and but a few
malcontents are to be found in the whole of the Brigade. Everything tends to make
life enjoyable and every mother's son of the 370 offers and men of the 3rd
Cambridgeshire Regiment is sunburnt and beaming with the ruddy hue of health. All
this speaks well for the ozone of "Bloaterville". The South Denes make a capital
camping ground and from the base of Nelson's Column, where the lines commence, the
Brigade makes quite an imposing show, their red coats giving the scene a really
military appearance.

THURSDAY
24th July
1972
The Lion Yard multi-deck car park opens on Monday proving another 500 car spaces
within a stone's throw
of the centre of Cambridge. The completion marks the first stage of he city
council's multi million redevelopment project for the area - which was first
proposed nearly 25 years ago. The new park, which aims to cater for the shopper and
the shortstay motorist, is the second major car park to open in the city in less
than a year. The other is at Queen Anne Terrace, which opened last October. The
usual parking fees will be 5p for the first hour, 15p for two hours, 25p for three
hours, up to a maximum of 75p for 10 hours. The cuncil hope the prices will
encourage people who work in the city centre to leave their cars in the parks away
from the centre, like New Square and Prospect Row, where the charges are
considerably less.

1947
Seven members of the Cambridge National Fire Service were at Addenbrooke's Hospital
this morning suffering from slight burns from mustard gas sustained inn dealing
with a fire involving a truck-load of 60 112lb American gas bombs on the railway
line between Six Mile Bottom and Fulbourn late last night. The main line between
Cambridge and Ipswich was closed to traffic as a result of contamination over 100
yards . Later the damaged wagon was tipped off the rails to the side of the line.
The truck was one of a train of 30 to
40 carrying mustard gas bombs from Warren Wood, near Thetford, to Barry in Wales,
for dumping in the ses As it passed through Six Mile Bottom the stationmaster saw
that the truck was ablaze. The burning wagon, the third from the engine, was
uncoupled, and the engine restarted to pull it away from these. An eye witness said
to a "Cambridge Daily News" reporter : "It was a spectacular sight. About fifty per
cent of the bombs exploded with a "whoosh" and a burst of flame which shot fifty
feet into the air. Poisonous fumes spread over a range of fifty or sixty yards. The
police afterwards sealed off an area around the blaze to await
decontamination"

1922
Cambridge Town Council will have before them a preliminary statement of proposals
for developing the
town planning on the east side of the Borough. The scheme provides for the laying
out of 21 new roads or
streets

1897
The annual show in connection with the Mill Road, Barnwell and New Town Amateur
Gardeners' Association has long been one of the most popular attrations of the
summer months. The competition in vegetables was keen among the cottagers' classes.
As for amusement at first- class bill of fare was provided for the holiday-makers
who began to stream into the building later on in theday

FRIDAY
25th July

1972
A total of 160 houses in the Burleigh street – Fitzroy street area of Cambridge
will have to be demolished to
make way for the city council's shopping redevelopment scheme. At present only 34
of the houses are
unoccupied. The city council are prepared to buy the houses at full market value if
the owners cannot find
other buyers. Some of the houses have already been classed as slums and earmarked
for demolition. A number have in fact already been closed, such as in parts of
James Street or demolished, as at Adam and Eve Street. A year ago the city council
gave details of a large area outside the Burleigh Street - Fitzroy Street
complex which they said would not be required for demolition. This gave the house
owners the go-ahead to
apply for grants of up to £1,000 to improve their homes

1947
The foundation stone of what will be a home solely for the care of children
suffering from Tuberculosis was
laid at Papworth Village Settlement by the Princess Royal. It will be known as the
Edith Edwards Children's Home. The Home will accommodate 50 children, from infancy
to the age of 1 years. At present there are not
more than six children's homes in the whole of England devoted wholly to
tuberculosis cases, and with the
increase of the disease during the war years, these have long waiting lists.

1922
The principal new roads proposed as part of the Cambridge town planning scheme
include a main road
starting from Red Cross, on Hills Road, going approximately north to Newmarket Road
at the corner of
Fen Ditton-lane, divided into sections. Number 3 runs in a straight line as far as
the old Newmarket railway
line and then slightly curves into Mill-Road. There are two branches which both
lead towards the station. It
will be necessary to form a subway under the railway or bridge the line, unless
this line, which at present is
only used for storage of railway carriages, is done away with altogether

1897
On Saturday afternoon the members of the Royston and Hitchin Associations of the
National Union of Teachers held their annual picnic in the beautiful grounds of
Odsey House. The company dispersed about the grounds, some going in for cricket
(ladies v gentlemen), others for tennis and croquet, whilst others strolled about
the grounds, which just now are looking very pretty. During the afternoon tea was
served in one of the walks under the trees by Mr Rogers of the Railway Inn, Ashwell
Station, who catered admirably, and the company again went back to their respective
amusements. All were loud in their expressions of delight at the arrangements that
had been made for their comfort and pleasure.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
28th July
1972
The Cambridge Arts theatre lost almost £14,000 last year, £9,000 more than their
loss in 1970-71. The
chairman of trustees, Mr George Rylands, told the annual meeting that it had been a
"disappointing and
worrying" year which seemed to point to a decline in interest in Cambridge in the
live theatre. Mr Rylands
blamed the over-all loss on the increased cost of productions, higher salaries and
wages, and a decline in attendances of nearly six per cent. He hoped the opening of
the new Lion Yard car park would induce new
patrons to the theatre

1947
A protest about the waste of paper involved in the presentation of committee
minutes was voiced at
Saturday's meeting of Cambridgeshire County Council. Coun R.M. Jackson asked
whether it was really necessary to go into such detail. Ald Stubbs thought, in view
of the shortage of paper, which, among other things, had a limiting effect on
keeping the public fully acquainted with what was gong on, the minutes showed a
sheer waste of paper. In addition there was a waste of the time of the staff, and
he thought attention should be called to this "colossal waste"

1922
A pleasing ceremony took place at the meeting of the Cambridge Town Council when
Col. C.T. Heycock, on behalf of the past officers of the headquarters of the
Cambridgeshire Regiment, presented to the town a copy of the book which rests in
Ely Cathedral, containing the names of the men of Cambs and the Isle of Ely who
lost their lives in the war. The Mayor, in accepting the book said he was sure they
would all feel it was
their duty and privilege to take care of that handsome volume, and place it in the
Public Library, so that all who cared could look through it and see the names of
those gallant men who fell in the defence of their
country

1897
The Cambridge town eight-oared bumping races – an annual event in which great
interest is manifested by a
select few, but which a large proportion of the townspeople seem wholly unconcerned
- were begun over the old Varsity course from Baitsbite to the railway bridge. All
the boats were afloat by 7.50 with the exception of Rob Roy II which was at that
particular time showing every symptom of sinking. This was owing to an error on the
part of the crew who, in dropping their light ship, plunged head foremost over it
and into the stream, thus affording a diverting carnival to a small band of
onlookers. Both clothes and spirits were seriously damped by the mishap and eight
men were shortly afterwards to be seen hastening to their respective homes, sadder
and wiser than when they set forth.

TUESDAY

29th July
1972
By throwing out plans to fluoridate Huntingdon and Peterborough's water supply, the
county council have only postponed the day for two years. Because when the new
health authorities take over, there is little doubt
that flouride will be in every water supply in England & Wales. Their decision
means that for the sake of
having no flouride in the water supplies to a small part of the area around St Ives
and Ramsey, they have denied fluoride to almost 200,000 people in the
Cambridgeshire & Isle of Ely area. This is because both councils were linked in a
£68,000 plan to be carried out by the Cambridge Water Company

1947
History was made in th Shire Hall Council Chamber on Saturday, when Ald Mrs Mellish
Clark, first woman chairman of the Cambridgeshire County Council, and of any County
Council outside London, took the chair for the first time. She brought to it
exactly the same degree of competence she brings to all meetings over which she
presides, conducting the proceedings in a practical, business-like way, wasting no
time on unessentials. She did not hesitate to call the meeting to order - doing
this on two occasions when more than
one tried to speak at the same time.

1922
The preliminary proposals for developing the town planning area on the east side of
Cambridge were presented to the Town Council. The Borough Surveyor said the showing
of roads on the plan did not bind the Corporation to construct any of them. It
simply meant that that was to be the line of the roads eventually,
and nothing must be done to prevent roads being made there. So although 21 roads
were shown, it did not bind the Corporation to make a single one unless they
thought fit. The scheme could only be made for parts
not built upon at present - Romsey Town and the Rock Estate did not come into the
scheme

1897
A casual detained at Cambridge Workhouse was charged with refusing to do such work
as was "suited to his
age, strength and capacity". Fred Fordham, porter at the Workhouse stated that the
man was taken to a cell to do his day's work - picking 4lb of oakum. Defendant said
he did not intend to do the work. Witness locked
the door and left him there. Oakum picking did not need very good eyesight, and the
cells were well lighted.
Defendant was expected to do a day's work lasting from 7am to 5pm. Stone breaking
was done by men under 60 and oakum picking by those over. When he went to see what
the defendant had done he found he had used a stone- breaking hammer to smash the
door of his cell. Defendant said the cells were a disgrace, only a birdcage made of
lathe and plaster. He was sent to prison for 7 days

WEDNESDAY

30th July
1972
With Murkett Bros' move to new premises in Histon Road on Tuesday, Cambridge will
shortly lose a familiar landmark. The Huntingdon-based firm's motor car showrooms
and offices at the corner of Huntingdon Road and Histon Road is to be demolished
and a million-gallon-a-year petrol service station built in its place. Murkett's
sold their prime corner city centre site to Chevron Oil (U.K.) earlier this year.
Chevron consider the purchase of the old showrooms a coup. "With a traffic count of
around 40,000 cars a day at this junction, it is a prime site equal to some of the
best in London", said a spokesman

1947
Sir - When will something be done about the disgraceful state of the traffic in
Petty Cury, Cambridge. I
understood some time ago that steps were being taken to stop the parking of cars on
the left side of this
narrow thoroughfare. Far from this being done, it is now worse than ever. Saturday,
with the exception of the entrance to the Lion Hotel there were 15 large cars
parked from Sidney Street to Guildhall Street, and as
prams and mail carts can only use the sidewalks, pedestrians who venture on the
street are taking serious risks of getting knocked down. Truly a street only fit
for the quick or the dead - letter from W.M.F., Gt Shelford

1922
The new scheme for Borough housing was referred to at the Cambridge council
meeting. Save that the scheme is to provide for the erection of 500 houses and that
the cost may be £200,000, we know very little. It was originally proposed that a
meeting should be held next Thursday but it seems more than likely we shall have to
wait until the end of the year before the matter comes up in Council. And then, I
suppose, there will be further delays before building can be started. While we do
not want to see things rushed through with undue haste I am inclined to agree with
the Mayor that "acceleration of building" is hardly a correct
description of the sub-committee's activities – Table Talk

1897
A public meeting was held in Balsham schoolroom to pass the Jubilee accounts and to
decide what should be done with the balance of £12.9s.1d. It was proposed to give
every cottager in the village 2 cwt of coal during the next winter. Mr Cornell then
read a short speech saying the Jubilee was a failure, and the committee were not
gentlemen (which was partly true, there being several ladies on the committee). The
Rector said he hoped the meeting gave the committee the credit of being honest men
and that they would show their thanks for all that had been done for them. This was
received with cheers and the meeting ended with loud cheers for the committee

THURSDAY

31st July
1972
The Department of the Environment have squashed a plan to develop a 20-acre
industrial estate in Milton Road, Cambridge, opposite Trinity College's proposed
13-acre science park. Bitter controversy has shadowed the scheme from the start. It
was first approved by Cambridge City Council but later vetoed by the County Council
who said they had already earmarked sufficient land for industry. The planning
permission was for construction of roads and sewers as a first step to an
industrial estate being sought by Stokes of Cambridge ltd. When they were turned
down by the County council they appealed to Whitehall and a public
inquiry was held in February this year
1947
At the meeting of the Chesterton Rural District Council it was reported that a
further three parishes (Coton,
Fen Drayton and Lolworth) had been supplied with water mains. It was anticipated
that the work involving the supply to Barton, Comberton, Toft, Haslingfield and
Harlton would be put in hand during the coming year. Several parishes, notably
Croxton, Eltisley, Graveley, Hardwick and Dry Drayton were extremely short of water
for domestic and stock purposes and trouble was anticipated in the summer months.
The position could not be improved until a new high level water tower was erected
thereby affording sufficient pressure to enable a mains supply to be taken to these
villages.

1922
I don't think there well be any doubt about the keenness of the children of
Cambridge in the League of Nations after the way in which they turned out to the
Rally on Wednesday evening in spite of the most unfortunate weather. At one time it
looked as if it might be necessary to abandon altogether the procession of
decorated vehicles but the youngsters were so disappointed that the teachers
resolved to "carry on".
From various incidents it was clear that the school children were determined to
come, even if their teachers were unable to bring them. Children from schools not
taking part begged teachers from schools elsewhere to let them join in their group.

1897
Cambridgeshire County Council considered the question of the management of the
roads. Ald Clear said they now had the double system of district roads under the
District Councils and main roads under the County Council. The District Councils
were now in full swing in the management of their roads and had competent men as
surveyors. If they were given the 250 miles of main roads under the County Council
it would effect a great saving. Councillor Clark said he was strongly opposed to
the roads being handed over by a competent body to incompetent ones.

FRIDAY
1st August

1972
Two Cambridge University computers half a mile apart have been operationally linked
by an infra-red beam - the first system of its kind to be set up in Europe. The
computers involved are the massive new £1.7million
machine just installed in the mathematics laboratory, and the smaller, older,
instrument in the Department of
Engineering. The link is established by a beam transmitter and receiver at the top
of each building and an essential condition of operation is that no obstruction
lies in the path of the beam.

1947
The necessity of reducing the waiting list at Addenbrooke's Hospital was a point
emphasised by several Brethren at the meeting of the Cambridge & County Friendly
Societies Council. Brother W.A. Driver said something would have to be done in the
near future because it was alarming to find that the present waiting list was
1,082, as compared with 987 last month. It did not speak too well to those who were
waiting to get in and could not through lack of beds. In the private wards for 1946
there were 146 patients, while for 1947 were 163. Bro. Brasher said "We have got to
see that there is a bed waiting for every patient and not a patient waiting for the
bed. We must see that when anybody wants hospital treatment it is available for
them"

1922
The "No More War" demonstration held on Parker's Piece, Cambridge, was attended by
a gratifying measure of success. The procession extended more than half the length
of Gonville-place, and the crowd at the meetings held on the Piece afterwards was
so large that the two platforms provided were not sufficient, and a motor-car had
to be requisitioned for the purposes of a third meeting. In addition to the banners
of the various societies there were numerous bearing inscriptions such as "For
Peace and Freedom" (Women's International League), "Patriotism is not enough",
"Cambridge Sisterhood says No More War". In addition there were scores of
bannerettes bearing the words "No More War". Mrs Nevinson referred to the number of
deaths from influenza in 1918 which was really a war plague. They kept the memory
of the dead alive but did they remember the maimed, the blind, shell-shocked and
the mad?. No one was worrying about those men.

1897
Messrs Gain, Moyes and Wisbey offered for sale the Shakespeare Brewery, Newmarket-
road, Cambridge and 15 freehold licensed inns, public houses and beerhouses. Lots
commenced at £500 and rose rapidly - in the case of the Red Bull, Barton Road to
£2,050. Other prices included The Shakespeare Brewery and Inn (£2,000), The
Greyhound, Lt Wilbraham (£800), The Bakers' Arms, Fulbourn (£950), The Railway Inn,
Harlton (£725) and The Cherry Tree beerhouse, Swaffham Fen (£600)

LOOKING BACK by MIke Petty

MONDAY
4th August
1972
Is the panic going out of house buying in Mid Anglia? With more and more houses
coming on to the market the answer, according to building society spokesmen is Yes.
It is not so many months ago that estate agents were advertising for houses to
sell. Now their lists appear to be as long as ever. The Leicester Permanent
Building Society manager said "It can now take weeks to sell houses which a short
time ago were being sold in a couple of days. I believe these are the first
indications of an end to the recent hectic price spirtal" More private houses were
started in June than ever before. Council housing starts, too, have reached their
best level since last year.

1947
When I met the County MP the other day and asked how he was feeling after he all-
night session he told me an amusing story against himself. He had been to see his
daughter in London and was returning to the House on the top of a bus, when he fell
fast asleep. Someone told the conductor below that there was an "old cove" upstairs
snoring away like anything. Going upstairs he roused our "Albert" and remonstrated
with him, asking him where he was going. Mr Stubbs replied he was "going to work".
"Where do you work?" asked the conductor, and, having reached Westminster by this
time, Mr Stubbs pointed to the Houses of Parliament and said "Over there!"

1922
The gods invariably smile on the successful. Histon Show and Sports, one of the
best managed and successful meetings in the Eastern Counties, was again favoured
with delightful weather. The sports are, of course, the principal attractions at
Histon and the officials are nothing if not up-to-date. The track was in splendid
condition, and long before the races were due to commence there was a large crowd
present, though none of the special trains had then arrived, and it looked fair to
beat the previous record in attendance. One
could not help but admire the megaphone steward. Gifted with a sonorous voice he
was an artist of the game and greatly added to the success of the meeting

1897
The weather again favoured this old favourite gala (at Haverhill). Crowds of
people came in by road and rail and there could not have been less than 8,000 on
the ground during the day. The road was spanned with flags at the Woolpack, which
was also very gay with bunting and boughs of oak, and the scaffolding at the new
Co-operative buildings was utilised to display a crowd of flags. Almost every shop
and house gave signs of a general holiday

TUESDAY

5th August
Cambridge housewives face soaring prices this weekend as thousands of tons of vital
imports lie strike-bound in Britain's ports. Fruit and meat imports are the biggest
casualties of the national dock strike which entered its second week today. In
Cambridge the Mill Road greengrocers, Clements have raised the price of imported
Granny Smith apples from 11p to 14p a pound, while bananas are up from 8p to 11p a
pound. At Tesco, in Regent Street, the manager said they had run out of bananas,
but oranges and apples were still available and had not gone up. Tomatoes however
had risen by about 5p to 18p a pound

1947
Only in cases of "exceptional hardship" can private householders hope to employ in
domestic service the
displaced persons now coming into the area to help relieve the labour shortage in
certain industries. Since the beginning of June some 1,400 of these displaced
persons have arrived from Germany at a West Wratting holding camp. Their
nationalities are Latvian, Lithuanian, Estonian and Ukranian. Ages range from 25 to
40. The jobs woman can take include laundry work, domestic service in hospitals and
hostels, and agriculture, and these are the sort of jobs they have taken in this
region. Men, too have gone into agriculture. I understand that another camp
accommodating about the same number will shortly be opened in Bottisham

1922
The reports of the Isle of Ely Highways and Bridges Committee revealed that as
owners of the Mepal Bridge
the Ouse Drainage Board had advised that it was not sufficient to bear the modern
traffic. The Board were advised that the bridge was originally built for tenants
and servants of the Bedford Level Corporation, and that they were under no
obligation to build a new bridge suitable for modern traffic. The Board desired to
know whether the County Council would be prepared to discuss terms for the erection
of a new bridge, and for the future maintenance of such bridge

1897
An extraordinary general meeting of the Cambridge Electric Supply co. ltd was held
at the Company's
offices, Thompson's Lane, Cambridge. The chairman reported that their first capital
had been £40,000
which had been spent on plant and the necessary things to equip the station. They
had gone over that and had
borrowed £2,250 from the bank. The business of the company was increasing and the
capital must be
increased too. Now was the time for shareholders to reap the reward of their
enterprise if the use of electric light became universal in Cambridge

WEDNESDAY

6th August
1972
The long-awaited Cambridge Transportation Study was finally published yesterday. It
is two years overdue
and has cost £113,000 - almost £1,000 a page. It was jointly commissioned in 1967
by the Cambridge city and County Councils and the University. It was to be carried
out by R. Travers Morgan and Partners and was estimated at that time to cost
£78,000. Its major proposals include a Railway Road leaving the A10 south of the
Trumpington street traffic lights, hugging the northbound railway track all the way
to Newmarket Road. After crossing the Cam the new road would veer sharply west to
follow the St Ives railway line along to the A10 Milton Road before linking up with
Arbury Road. The Railway Road should be largely dual two-lane carriageway. Full
construction could take many years

1947
A Bank Holiday gala dance attracted large umbers to the Guildhall on Monday night,
when they found Billy Kaye and his Sextet much to their liking. Liela Rowland was a
big hit, with her interpretation of the popular tunes of the day, and particularly
pleasing was "People will say we're in love". The rhythm of the samba, the
calypso, the beguine and the rhumba were heard in a special Latin-American session
and met with marked
success

1922
The Summer Meeting is proving a gratifying success, and is in every way the best
that has been held since that memorable meeting of 1914 when the war caught both
the students and the Syndics unaware, and there was great trouble in repatriating
some of the foreigners who had come to Cambridge for the meeting. This year once
again there is a good sprinkling of foreign students, who seem to be thoroughly
enjoying themselves. The students, too, include a number of working men from the
North, who have been most regular and attentive at the lectures on Control in
Industry, but a trifle dogmatic in the discussion

1897
Sir - Now that the Jubilee accounts have been reckoned up it seems fitting we
should start afresh the matter
of the new bridge. The question of a new bridge to connect Chesterton with
Cambridge at the Abbey Estate
is of supreme importance. The ferryman knows no rest. All the people at Old
Chesterton have to be crossed
over long before the omnibuses are astir. The wheels of progress anywhere in the
vicinity have moved round in the past with about the same velocity as a farmer's
cart!. Is this to drag on for ever?. The advantage of
another bridge over the now-sweetened Cam would be a great gain to both Chesterton
and Cambridge in equal proportion - letter signed "Chestertonian"

THURSDAY

7th August
1972
The Backs have been described as "one of the world's most beautiful assemblies of
buildings and grass and
trees". Queen's Road, which skirts The Backs, is also one of the busiest heavy
lorry roads in Cambridge. For
many years the university have urged the closure of Queen's Road to through
traffic, but the counter-
argument is that there is no other convenient traffic route in west Cambridge.
Travers Morgan's Transportation Study proposes a new West Road which would carry
some 60 per cent of the traffic using
Queens Road and Grange Road which would then be closed, to bring peace once again
to the Backs

1947
Because of the danger of ice-cream spreading conditions of infectious diseases
three defendants were summoned for not displaying their name and address on the
vehicle from which they were selling the ice-cream. Ernesto Fella of Mill Road,
Cambridge pointed out that his tricycle had just been painted, but the address had
been omitted. This error had now been rectified. Another said that while he was
waiting to get the name painted on the van he had stuck two labels on the side but
these had come off during one of the storms. The name and address were painted on
the following morning. All were fined £1

1922
The commencement of the school holidays has at once placed a great strain upon
those who are responsible
for the conduct of our recreation grounds and open spaces, and nowhere has it been
more felt that at Sheep's Green, Cambridge, where our young water-rats spend the
greater part of their vacations in alternating river-bathing and sun-baths. The
place is in a great state of dilapidation and at any moment might become an utter
ruin. The rottenness of the woodwork of the bathing shed is concealed by paint and
putty, timbering on both sides of the river is falling to pieces and on the Newnham
side the banks are crumbling to bits. It really does seem that before any new
bathing places are built this grand old one should be put into a state worthy of
its reputation and popularity - Table Talk

1897
Yesterday afternoon a terrible thunderstorm passed over Royston district. The storm
commenced with a fearful downpour of rain accompanied by heavy lightning and
thunder. The streets were deluged and stream like rivers coursed down the High-
street, Market-hill and Back-street. Following upon this came a hailstorm,
stones larger than marbles falling heavily and thickly. A good deal of glass was
broken. A horse attached to a cart loaded with coal for Barley became frightened
and bolted and the coal was scattered all along the road
FRIDAY

8th August
I was among the first into the new Lion Yard multi-deck car park when it opened.
The public hadn't really caught on, and the vast concrete halls echoed emptily to
the dumpers and merry shouts of workmen still constructing it. Later in the week I
returned. Now the park was known and very full. It was clearly making an impression
on the parking situation in Cambridge for there were now more parking meters
available than
usual. It won't be until all the decks are in use at Lion Yard that the final
effect on Cambridge parking will be seen. In my view it must be beneficial – Rodney
Tibbs

1947
An obituary notice in "The Times" of Wednesday began with these words: "Mr Rodney
('Gypsy') Smith, one of the most remarkable evangelists of modern times, died at
the age of 87 on the Queen Mary while on his way to Florida to recuperate after a
severe illness" It was I believe in 1938, a year after the death of his first
wife, that Gypsy Smith gave up "Romany Tan", his residence in Cambridge, but for
many years before that
he was a familiar figure in the town. In his autobiography he tells how he was
converted at "a little Primitive Methodist Chapel in Fitzroy Street", Cambridge.

1922
The return of the Cambridge Mammoth Show to its old time variety and importance
will recall to many minds the last occasion of its so presenting itself to the
public. The gloom which rested over the Bank Holiday and show in 1914 will never be
forgotten by those who experienced it. The megaphone calls in all parts of the
ground for postmen to repair to their duty at once told the tale that war was
regarded as inevitable, and that the mobilisation notices were to go out. On the
following Friday Cambridge suddenly found itself an armed camp, through the arrival
on mobilisation of the Sixth Division. One remembers the sight of the humble little
shopkeepers on Newmarket-road coming out to greet the tired artillerymen and make
offerings of fruit, sweets and cigarettes and the great wave of united purpose and
offer of service which swept over Cambridge.

1897
There is apparently no end to the capabilities of the "X" rays. A farmer with a
large quantity of poultry
found that the number of eggs produced was not so great as it ought to be.
Accordingly the Rontgen rays were called into requisition and a preliminary
examination of 12 hens showed that eight were egg producers and four were not. An
"X" ray plan was then permanently established and all the hens were subjected to a
searching examination. The result was a decided increase of eggs. The non-producers
were ruthlessly plucked and sent to market

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
11th August

1972
Crandal - a village within a village. The most pleasant village of Gt Shelford, has
been for many years an
idyllic residential area. The character and charm has been retained whilst every
modern amenity is available. The strong community spirit that exists has led to the
establishment of many local societies and clubs. It
will be understood that the local authority wish to reserve the village feeling of
Gt Shelford. It has
therefore been after much direct consultation that Arjon Development Company have
evolved the concept that is Crandal, a development of exciting and unique homes.
Plans have been approved for expansions of the amenities with a further 6 shops, a
supermarket, library and health centre. All enquiries to sole
selling agents - Adrians

1947
A change in command in the National Fire Service in Cambridge and district had just
taken place.
Divisional Officer J.W. Gibson of Arbury Road, Cambridge has left to take up an
appointment in Scotland. In Cambridge two of the outstanding fires he attended were
those at Heffer's and Corpus Christi College. But the fire he will remember most
vividly is the last he went to - that on the railway line between Fulbourn
and Six Mile Bottom recently when a truck load of mustard gas bombs caught fire

1922
Salvationists in Cambridgeshire and Huntingdonshire were greatly heartened during
the holiday weekend by a visit from Mrs Booth, the beloved wife of the General, who
addressed a series of meetings in several of the towns and villages which come in
what is known as the Northampton Division. Mrs Booth made her tour in a motor car
kindly lent and driven by Councillor H. Franklin of Cambridge. At all the meeting
places large crowds had assembled and along the roads through which the cars passed
not only Salvationists but many others came to the doors or stopped at their work
to wave their hand to Mrs General Booth. Although it is a very long time since any
Salvation Army gathering was held in St Ives there was a very large muster on the
Market-hill to welcome her.

1897
Haverhill new sewerage scheme will cost the parish a comparatively small sum. It is
proposed to do away with the old brick arrangements between the White Hart and
Crown-passage and substitute modern pipes. It so happened that several members of
the Sanitary Committee were out of their houses on Thursday last, and if they had
not seen or smelt the abominable filth and stench before they had full benefit of
it then and sensibly and immediately instructed the Surveyor to suggest ways for
abolishing this evil, which is, however only one of several

TUESDAY
12th August
1972
Castles in the air are all very well but when it came to haystacks in the sky
villagers at Histon began to think they were really dreaming. Airborne straw rained
down on the village yesterday and clumps of it were scattered over roads and in the
gardens of puzzled residents. Seven year old Carmen Moore, who watched the whole
event said; "I thought it was very funny seeing haystacks in the sky". The mystery
of the falling straw was solved by the R.A.F. Oakington meteorological office. A
spokesman said "This comes from burning fields of stubble. The heat from the ground
can lift loose straw up to 10,000 feet and it can travel as much as 30 miles before
it falls down again"

1947
One of this morning's news items was: "The Secretary of State for War flew to
Germany today. He travelled in an R.A.F. Transport Command aircraft". When you read
that and similar items concerning famous men journeying in Service aircraft you can
be pretty sure that the crew and their plane have come from Bassingbourn R.A.F.
Station. There is the "home" of 24 (Commonwealth) Squadron whose job is carrying
V.I.P.s. The aircraft used are Yorks, Lancastrians and Dakotas. The Squadron's
planes all have one thing
in common - the shining, burnished brightness of their exterior. Metal polish and
elbow grease are the means of obtaining this effect; mechanical polishers cannot be
used as they are liable to damage the metal. The planes are masterpieces of
smartness

1922
The success of the Summer Meeting demonstrates once again the appreciation and
possibilities of Cambridge as a holiday centre and yet Cambridge appears to be as
indifferent as ever to its
opportunities. Every person who has this experience is an advertisement for
Cambridge, but it is an advertisement which ought to be supplemented by other kinds
of publicity, the sort of propaganda which every progressive town makes use of
these days. Money spent in this way would be money well spent - Table Talk

1897
The ancient city of Ely is greatly favoured in the variety of country rambles which
one may enjoy across fields etc. This morning a chum and myself, whilst indulging
in one of these old walks - not much frequented now - from the junction of
Kettlesworth and Clayway Droves to New Barnes, were astonished to find about midway
across the first field, that a fence had been erected, along the top of which was
stretched a barbed (or barbarous) wire. We saw two labourers who said "There's a
new chap got this 'ere land,
and he thinks he's going to stop the path, but he can't. I should go on if I were
you" – letter

WEDNESDAY
13th August
1972
Cambridge University student, Mr Colin Rosensteil, was so annoyed by the grubby
looking and almost illegible street nameplate outside his home in John Street that
he decided to brighten it up himself. Now he is thinking about going round the
other street nameplates in the area - if his requests to the city council to do the
work fall on deaf ears. He has written to the city council's Conservative leader,
Ald Stanley Bowles
asking for a rush programme of sign repainting throughout the city.

1947
A free-for-all political argument developed on Parker's Piece last night at a
meeting organised by the Cambridge branch of the Communist Party to discuss
"Britain's Crisis". Among the hecklers was a small band of Conservatives who
interrupted the speakers by words and music through another amplifier. Mrs
Pearl Lilley declared that the Socialists were not carrying out the policy they
were elected on. After several interruptions from the Conservatives over the
loudspeaker, Mrs Lilley remarked on the very low level to which the Tories had got
to stoop to gain their audience. Several questions concerning starvation in
Russia, the secret police there and the lack of freedom of speech were answered by
the speakers despite interruptions from the "opposition" loudspeakers over which
was played the National Anthem and "Land of Hope and Glory"

1922
At the meeting of Saffron Walden Town Council the Mayor referred to books of
accounts of the old Spade Husbandry Committee. In the year 1829 a public meeting
was held to decide what could be done with all the unemployed of the town. Then
came the question of small allotments for the labouring poor. Mr Gibson offered
four and a half acres which were the first allotments for the borough and situated
on Little Walden-road. Several farmers offered land. Lord Braybrooke offered Park
Wall Gardens. The movement prospered. The first report said there were 78
allotments, the following year there were 144 and the tilling of the land was so
good that the Horticultural Society offered prizes for the best vegetables.

1897
Most people who have made the voyage to the Cape have become familiar with the huge
bird known as
the Albatross and the only one known to have reached Great Britain alive has
recently been captured by a farm labourer in the parish of Linton. Mr Travis, the
well-known naturalist of Bury St Edmund's purchased the bird, and it will no doubt
find a home in a large private museum. It is probably the most interesting capture
ever known in East Anglian bird lore.

THURSDAY
August 14th
1972
A Cottenham man used to be quite fond of cheese but he has rather lost the taste
for it since he learned that the once-famous Cottenham product probably stands to
lose him a few thousand pounds. Two cottages he had planned to sell to make way for
new housing have just had a preservation order put on them because of an old cheese
press and cheese room in one of them. It is though that the last cheese was made in
Cottenham about 80 years ago and the press may prove to be extremely old. In the
18th century there were large herds of cattle in the village. The milk was used to
produce large quantities of butter and the surplus to make the famous "Cottenham
Double Cheese", a speciality of Stourbridge Fair and other markets in the area

1947
People passing over Victoria Avenue Bridge, Cambridge, must often have seen long,
securely fastened and labelled packing cases leaving the boatyard there.The cases
are addressed to rowing clubs in distant parts of the world, and inside each is a
slender, beautifully finished racing craft. Each boat bears a small name-plate
stating simply "H.C.Banham, ltd". Banham's eights, fours, pairs, "funnies" and
whiffs are known wherever
there are rowing men and for many years now the firm has accepted orders from clubs
in all corners of the world. Scarcity of material and labour is the only thing that
prevents the ready acceptance of every order. Prices are nowadays a cause for
regret. Eights that once sold for about £60 now cost £190. There is the consolation
though that as the post-war world settles down to something more approaching
normality, Banham boats will continue to carry the name of Cambridge all over the
world

1922
Cambridgeshire School Medical Officer reported that there was serious restriction
in the amount of water available for all purposes in very many villages during last
summer. In several both wells and ponds were entirely dried up for periods of six
to eight weeks, and water had to be carted several miles, often from districts
already rather short. In one village it had been impossible to use water for
laundry purposes for
six weeks, the meagre supply which was all that could be spared from a neighbouring
village being barely sufficient for cooking.

1897
More than one correspondent has recently voiced the general feeling of disquiet at
the vile language used by loafers at our street corners. It is obvious the police
cannot cope with the evil themselves. The ordinary individual will not run the risk
and annoyance of acting single- handed in cases of this sort but if a considerable
section of the public combined offending blackguards would be more careful in their
conduct.
FRIDAY

August 15th
1972
The first boat to go through Roxton Lock, near St Neots since the beginning of the
century, took the Duke of Bedford a mile up-river towards Great Barford after he
had opened the new £80,200 lock on Saturday. The opening marked the 21st birthday
of the Great Ouse Restoration Society whose pressure has so far opened up three
locks between Eaton Socon and Bedford. There are three more to go, Great Barford,
Willington and Goldington.

1947
The annual report of the Fitzwilliam Museum begins by recording "the nine most
dangerous and difficult
years of its history. The collections had to be packed and removed in 1939 to
places of safety as remote as
Wales and Cornwall where they remained until they could be gradually be brought
back to Cambridge six years later. The Museum itself and those of its possessions
too frail to be moved had meanwhile to be protected. By the Sping of 1940 the
museum reopened with the first of more than 40 exhibitions arranged during the war,
although deprived of all the fit younger members of staff. By 1944 the Museum had
more visitors than in 1937 or 1938. The Museum had finally to be restored to order
before members of the staff away on National Service had returned.

1922
The School Medical Officer reported that the percentage of children with uncleanly
bodies was 4.1. The majority of the cases referred for treatment come over and over
again from the same incorrigible families in whom very often mental defect is also
present to a marked degree, the mother especially being of too low intelligence, or
too unstable, to care adequately for her family

1897
Today we have pleasure in chronicling the a capture which redoubts to the credit of
the Cambridgeshire
County Constabulary. There appears to be an idea prevalent amongts London thieves
that once in this county they have an easy job in "cracking a crib" and getting
away with their booty. Evidently full of this delusion two such men ran down to
Trumpington, their innocent hearts full of the joys in store. They bargained
however without the personality of P.C. Salmon, the resident guardian of
Trumpington's peace, a burly
and genial officer to those who keep the law and a terror to those who "love
darkness rather than light because their deeds are evil". P.C. Salmon - alas for
the hopes of these two disciples of Bill Sykes - sleeps only when the burglar is
not "serenading" and moreover he rides a "bike". To this cycle the culprits owe the
fact that their "cycle of freedom" is run and that they have fallen "a cropper"
with a bad puncture.

Looking back by Mike Petty

MONDAY
18th August

1972
The Rex cinema in Cambridge may soon echo to the moans and groans of live
wrestling. This is just
one of several ventures planned for the cinema by Victory Theatres who will take
over as new owners
in a few days time. The front of the cinema is to be re-modelled and additional
heating installed.
In keeping with its luxury refit The Rex is to be renamed the Royal Luxury Cinema.
"It will be a
cinema of the seventies", said the Managing Director of Victory Theatres, Mr Victor
Freeman. Other ideas for the revamped Rex include a Christmas pantomime. Victory
Cinemas are buying The Rex from Abbey Sports Club. The ballroom at the cinema will
continue to be owned by Abbey Sports Club

1947
It will be learned with regret in Newmarket that Major W.V. Beatty will be retiring
from training at the end of the present year, and in view of this has decided to
sell Phantom House with its training establishment and stud farm. This is one of
the most important properties to be offered for public sale in Newmarket for many
years. It will be offered for sale as a whole, providing an opportunity of
acquiring intact a first-class bloodstock undertaking. It comprises Phantom House
and Phantom House Training Establishment,
Phantom House stud farm with 3 sets of premises and 15 well-maintained paddocks,
covering in all
about 53 acres

1922
Cambridge visitors to St Ives are doubtless familiar with the old town clock on
Messrs R. Kiddle & Son's premises in Bridge-street. This clock, which was erected
by public subscription about 120 years ago, will have to be removed in consequence
of the discovery that the premises have become unsafe. A special meeting of the
Town Council was held to consider what should be done about the clock. There was a
natural desire not to lose an old landmark which helps the town to retain its old-
time character, but with so many
other clocks about and finances so tight as they are today, the Council felt they
could not sanction the expence of repair

1897
Sometime in the course of Tuesday night a desperately determined attempt was made
to obtain entrance to the Fitzwilliam Museum. which in its invaluable pictures, its
gems, and its magnificent collection of articles of ancient and modern art would,
if successfully broken into, yield a rich harvest to intelligent burglars. A
place so full of objects of art and interest is of course well guarded, and well
prepared for the visits of disciples of Bill Sykes. So the unwelcome ones found who
made the attempt on Tuesday night, for after trying two doors and five windows, and
using no small amount of violence they had to relinquish their efforts and go empty
away. So far as we have been able to gather this is the first attempt which has
been
made to forcibly break into the Museum in the course of its history

TUESDAY
19th August
1972
The strike by building workers forestalled the demolition of one of Cambridge's
best loved buildings - the University cricket pavilion built at Fenners in 1875.
The pavilion - the nursery of many great names in cricket and the host to countless
others - is to be replaced by a new pavilion whose completion is being delayed by
the strike. Such celebrities as Dr W.G. Grace were among the first to use the
pavilion and Donald
Bradman, the prolific Australian run-machine found a corner to hang his head in
shame after being bowled for a duck at the ground in 1934.

1947
The fact that Norman Hartnell as achieved the distinction of designing Princess
Elizabeth's wedding-gown is of particular interest to Cambridge, where many people
recall he was a prominent figure in the Footlights Dramatic Club in the years
immediately after the first world war. He designed dresses for at least two
productions and appeared in shows wearing some of them. In fact it is claimed that
he was "discovered" here and took up dress designing as a career as a direct result

1922
Shall the Ely Urban Council obtain powers to kill rats or not? That was the crux of
a resolution proposed at
the meeting on Monday. The Rev T.J. Kirkland raised the position regarding the Mill
Pits and the nuisance
caused by the shooting of objectionable rubbish there and the consequent presence
of rats. The danger of the
evil was not generally realised. For instance, a rat chart of England showed that
in the worst areas cancer was more prevalent that in others; also rats damaged
crops and properties and were also a great danger to
health as disease carriers. The chairman said it was not enough for one local
authority to take it up and the other to leave it alone, while the Isle Committee
did their utmost, West Suffolk did nothing and all the Isle rats bolted into
Suffolk for the time being. (Laughter).

1897
Considering the extent to which the sale of "hokey", or ice-cream, is carried on in
Cambridge, and the revelations that have been made in connection with the industry
in other towns it is justified in calling the
attention of the Town Council to the matter. The stuff may or may not be
manufactured in "the dirtiest slums
of Cambridge" as was asserted but considering the number of children of all classes
who indulge in the "luxury" we hope the Sanitary Committee will deal with it in
something more than a perfunctory manner. A good many parents would like to know a
little more about the article which their children devour in such large quantities
during the summer.

WEDNESDAY
20th August

1972
In a small blue and yellow Bermuda sloop 26 year-old Shane Acton will sail down the
Cam from Cambridge tomorrow morning on the first leg of a round-the-world voyage.
Shane bought the 20 foot sloop last Christmas with £600 saved during two years.
Since then he had been living on the boat, moored on the Cam near Mitcham's Corner.
He plans to sail around the coast to Falmouth, then across the Atlantic to the
Azores.This will be the first time he has ever made a journey of this length
sailing solo

1947
Sir - May I join the protest against the excessive charges now being asked for the
hire of a punt on the river. It is within easy memory that it was possible to hire
a punt out for and afternoon and evening for five or six
persons and still have 10s change from a pound note. I can see nothing which
warrants the present-day prices. Is it that the ordinary townsfolk are being slowly
squeezed from the river in order to allow the varsity men nd the more wealthy
visitors to the town to enjoy "our" river? The Borough Council should either
consider setting up a municipal boatyard for the hire of punts or investigate the
charges with a view to softening the blow to the everyday working-class family of
Cambridge - letter from "Constant User"

1922
This is the age of new things and I am able to report that harvest operations are
in full swing on Parker's Piece. Such economy has been shown in the use of the
mowers on our principal ground that the grass has grown to an extent beyond the
power of the customary lawnmower to cut, and so a hayreaper has been employed and
the resulting heavy swathes have been removed by horse and cart. Two horses and
three or four men have been engaged on the work, so if money-saving was the thing
intended by keeping to mower off Parker's Piece it has not been very effective.

1897
For several years Cambridge has been in a state of chronic poverty. With hardly a
sou in the bank - not
sufficient to meet tradesmen's bill as they become due - the financial outlook has
been far from cheering to the ratepayer. A farthing rate to retain East Road
Reading Room is denied, yet in the next breath the modest sum of £21,000 is voted
for street improvements. And again there is the front of the Guildhall. No sane
person can defend the retention of a monstrosity like that and if it is not to be
retained it must be replaced and care must be taken that the new building is worthy
of the town

THURSDAY
21at August
1972
The setting up of a full-time Cambridge tourist department is likely to be
recommended to the city council. Tourism is at present looked after by the library
committee. During the nation-wide local government reorganisation in 1974
responsibilities for running library services will go to the new county council.
But the new District Council will obviously want to run Cambridge tourist
facilities. The Library committee's Labour chairman, Coun Roger Thornely said the
tourist work of the City's Libraries department was increasingly rapidly and taking
up more of the department's time and added: "I believe that at times the Librarian
does not see a book for about four or five days at a time"

1947
An unusually early harvest in ideal weather, particularly for combines - but one
with disappointingly low yields. That, in brief, sums up the situation in
Cambridgeshire where a certain amount of new corn is now on the market. Yields of
wheat generally are very poor, averaging only about four sacks an acre, compared
with twelve last year. The position in East Anglia generally is worse than in the
rest of the country owing to the
drought. Land which was lightly-flooded around Stretham, Waterbeach and Over has
yielded crops, some
better than the average because of the moisture which the dry land lacked

1922
Of the opinion that the water supplies to the Ely rural district are
"unsatisfactory and inadequate" the
Ministry of Health consider that a new supply should be provided without delay. The
Ministry wrote in
reference to an Inquiry in connection with the application of the Rural District
Council for sanction to borrow money for the provision of a scheme of water supply.
It is understood that the R.D.C. have now
arranged for the provision of an additional reservoir at Littleport.

1897
The subject of the interview in this week's "Cable" is Mr C.P. Tebbutt, who is a
prominent member of the
County Council, manager of Foster's Bank at St Ives, and farms about 550 acres of
land, within a mile of
Bluntisham railway station. On the question of education he is "very opposed to the
pressure exercised by the Education Department in respect of keeping boys at
school. I favour a half-time and a half-day system. I have been a manager of the
British School in Bluntisham for many years and I am strongly impressed with the
deleterious effect the compulsory classes have had upon the agricultural community.
Boys who are kept in school until they are 14 years old never make the farm
labourers they would have made if they had left school at an earlier period"

FRIDAY
22nd August
1972
It has been an irritating summer for the hundreds of visitors to Cambridge who have
been forced to scour
the surrounding countryside for hotel rooms. Cambridge has always had a notorious
reputation for being unable to accommodate all the summer visitors. This year the
situation was made worse by the Garden House Hotel fire in April which left the
city the poorer by 75 bedrooms. Help is already on the way. The Garden House Hotel
is being rebuilt; the Gonville Hotel will open again after alterations and work has
started on a 100- bedroom hotel at Bar Hill. Whitbread have outline planning
permission to build a 60-bedroom motel extension at the Red Lion Hotel, Trumpington
and De Vere Hotels are awaiting the outcome of the inquiry into their application
to build a 200-bedroom hotel on Castle Hill

1947
Further steps are to be taken by Huntingdon, St Ives, Godmanchester and St Neots,
the four towns so badly
affected by the March floods, to press home to the Government the urgency of some
action being taken to mitigate further floods of these places. Mr W.E. Doran (Ouse
Catchment Board Engineer) said that in his view the inhabitants of those towns were
suffering from the sins of their ancestors in building houses in a flood area. At
the height of the recent flood water was passing St Ives at the rate of 11,000
cubic feet per
second. It was impossible to dig a channel capable of taking such an enormous
volume of water. A new sluice at the paper mills, St Neots would improve the
position for that town but would not stop flooding
there

1922
A correspondent writes: Comparatively few holiday- makers seem to know much of the
splendid holiday
afforded by the Norfolk Broads. House boats can be rented at about all prices from
£2.2s.0d a week to
accommodate two people to the wherry which will hold a party of eight or ten and
costs about £25 a week
(incluiding two men to work her and do the cooking). For the lover of quiet and
restful holidays the Broads
certainly would be difficult to beat

1897
At a meeting of the Royston Board of Guardians the question of London children
coming into the country
for a holiday and bringing infectious diseases with them was brought under
consideration, cases of the kind having occurred in the locality. One case of
scarlet fever had broken out at a house on the Moor, Melbourn to which three
children had been sent by a holiday fund from Stoke Newington. Another was a case
of diptheria which had occurred at Meldreth at a house where 12 children from Stoke
Newington were staying. A couple of cases had broken out also at Reed, in a house
where London children were staying

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
25th August

1972
The tourist is choosy, picking for his photographs only that which pleases his eye.
It would be small
wonder then if he were to gloss over the less attractive of the Cam's backwaters.
It is the city resident who suffers the full impact of the Cam's dirty ditches.
Week by week through the tourist season the waterways gradually clot up with tin
cans, bottles and paper to leave an unsightly blot on the city's scenery. In the
stagnant stretch of water behind Queens' college the sludge of rotting leaves and
branches produce an overpowering smell. Ducks struggle manfully amid the tin cans
and broken bottles which poke up through the thick layer of scum on the surface.

1947
Good news for flood victims. Lino, which was the primary need above all else, is on
its way, a gift from Canada. Bedding and carpets are being sent too. Two tons of
bedding have already been received and the first distribution will take place at
Houghton (Hunts) next Tuesday. Another gifts for flood victims is that of
fats which have been sent to the British Red Cross Society by the people of
Mombassa, and will be distributed in this area by the Borough headquarters. I
understand that these are intended mainly for the Isle of Ely. Distribution will
take place as soon as the weather is a little cooler. Cambridge has just finished
distributing the tinned foods send from the people of Australia. Each person in
every family received four tins, one of milk, two of meat and one of fruit.

1922
A good crowd and a fair number of entries went to make a success of the Cambridge
Whippet Racing Club's
meeting, which was held in the Straight Running Ground, Arbury-road. The meeting
was the last of a series of evening meetings arranged by the club and unfortunately
was not favoured with very good weather. The racing was very close and exciting and
several "certs" came "unstuck"

1897
It is high time that the foul-mouthed youths of the town received a caution, for no
one can sit for five
minutes without being reminded that there is a "riff-raff" element amoung the
youthful residents whose
speeches could only be reported in an expurgated edition. Last Sunday evening was
heard on Christ's
Pieces, Cambridge, language from youngsters not in their teens that would have
materially enriched the
vocabulary of a London cabby. There is an undoubted feeling among hobbledehoys of
the rougher grade that
the utterance of profane speeches stamps them with the seal of manhood.

TUESDAY
26th August

1972
Six mile queues of traffic built up at Newmarket today as the big Bank Holiday
getaway moved into top gear. The A.A. warned drivers to steer clear of the town, a
notorious holiday bottleneck for people heading to the East Coast. The Newmarket
bottleneck caused queues to bank up along the A11 as far as Six Mile Bottom.
Drivers were taking almost an hour to travel the two- mile stretch from Stetchworth
Toll to Newmarket and an estimated 1,800 cars an hour were passing through the town
1947
Sir - a recent letter in defence of present punt charges prompts me to indulge in
some mathematical calculation. At a large boathouse on the upper river I counted
seventy punts recently. On any fine summer afternoon there is usually a queue
waiting to hire them. Assume that each punt is hired for three hours only at 3s.per
hour, and it must be clear that the weekly turn-over must be approximately £200.
Deduct from this the wages of four men (say £25), allow £25 for running costs and
there is a clear profit of £150 per week - J.A. Parkinson, Newnham Rd, Cambridge

1922
I was interested the other night to observe the resourcefulness of a newsboy near
the New Theatre, Cambridge. Trade seemed dull and nobody seemed to want a paper.
After trying for some time without success, the youngster stopped his cry of
"Paper, sir" and pondered for a few moments. Then he had a brain wave. "Paper, sir,
paper. All about poor Michael" he burst forth in such arresting fashion that
everybody within hearing pricked up their ears. I saw at least a dozen people buy
a paper of the lad before I went into the Theatre

1897
How many of the inhabitants of "aristocratic" Cambridge have penetrated the depths
of Barnwell through the
lovely labyrinths of Brewhouse Lane? A mere outsider might suppose that the city of
colleges had no dark
parts; that its workmen's tenements were models of sanitation and comfort; that its
streets were well paved and lit; and that no foul smells arose from its sewers -
in short, that a learned city would be raised and modelled on enlightened lines.
For the dwellers in the "town" proper there is a reading-room and library. In Mill-
road there is another reading-room and library amongst those who are, at least,
moderately well to do;
but in Barnwell, the abode of the toiler there is now nothing but hard work,
smaller houses, surroundings
much more unwholesome than in the other parts of the town - and his reading-room
has been taken away. Can it be that those in authority are carrying out the
scriptural prophecy: "To him that hath shall be given,
and from him that hath not shall be taken away even which he hath"?
WEDNESDAY
27th August

1972
Bar Hill villagers have won a temporary bus service into Cambridge. It will begin
on the first day of the
next school term. Villagers have been campaigning for a full bus service into
Cambridge as "a matter of life
and death". One woman has already been killed crossing the busy Huntingdon Road
which children have to get over to reach the existing bus service to Cambridge
outside the village. The service will run three journeys a day each way.

1947
Fines totalling £35 were imposed on a Cambridge baker who admitted having sold 71
loaves of bread without coupons to Ukranians from the European Volunteers Workers'
Hostel at West Wratting. It was stated that the bread was being sold at the camp by
the men for 6s. for a 2lb loaf. The baker said that a procession of displaced
persons told him a terrible tale about the shortage of food at their camp. Some
told him they only got three slices of bread a day and pleaded with him to let them
have some. He let them have some stale loaves as with the particular flour used now
it was difficult to sell stale bread. He made no profit out of it and had no idea
they were being sold for such exorbitant prices at the camp
1922
At a meeting held in the Grantchester Schools the proposal to purchase the entrance
pavilion to the Royal
Show ground, for a village hall was considered. Mr J.J. Lister explained that two
years ago an effort was made to provide a village hall in connection with the war
memorial scheme but this had to be abandoned owing to high prices. He had been told
that if any offer in the neighbourhood of £300 was received they would be offered
the first refusal. The building would provide a large central room with smaller
rooms on either side and a pavilion for the cricket and football players. The
proposal was that the building should be erected on the meadow to the rear of the
Red Lion and overlooking the cricket ground

1897
At the Brewster sessions at Royston application was made for a spirit licence for
the Railway Tavern in the
parish of South Bassingbourn. It had been licenced as a beer house for a good many
years. A large number of new houses had been erected in that part of the town and a
large number of persons coming to play golf, cricket and football had to pass the
house and constantly asked for spirits. It was on the direct road to the railway
station. The pastor of the Kneesworth-Street Congregational Chapel ventured to
oppose the application.

THURSDAY
28th August

1972
Cambridge colleges will have to take a very close look at controlling the number of
visitors passing through
their courts and cloisters, warned college Bursars, after one of their busiest
tourist seasons ever. And while visitors have been allowed in with a minimum of
restrictions in the past, it looks as if the day when the turnstiles are installed
at the Porter's Lodge may not be far off. It could mean that 1972 will be the last
year of free access to the colleges for the thousand of visitors who flock to
Cambridge, one of Britain's top half-dozen tourist attractions.

1947
A petition by the Rector of St Peter's church, Duxford, for the demolition of the
disused St John's church,
Duxford, on the ground that it was in a very advanced sate of decay and there was a
possibity of serious accidents happening, was heard at a Consistory Court at Ely
Cathedral. The Rector said that St John's church had been broken into, defiled and
misused in a great many and scandalous ways and in a state of considerable
dilapidation. The walls were opening up and breaking away from the roof, and tiles
were coming off. The rain had already destroyed agreat deal of the medieval
contents and irreparable damage had been done to "really good stuff". Efforts had
been made to persuade the R.A.F. to take over the
church as a chapel in memory of the American pilots who fell in the Battle of
Britain, but that scheme ended in failure.

1922
Newmarket Rural Council considered a report on the epidemic of fever at Chippenham
during which five
people have died. Dr Gellatly wrote: "As to sanitary defects, the worst is the
cottages in New-row where a
large number of cases have occurred, the absence of ventilation rendering them
practically "back to back"
dwellings. The people will not keep out of each other's homes and in many cases do
all they can to conceal the facts in regard to suspected cases. It is true that
very many defects of sanitation exist in Chippenham,
but in no case can it be said that the health of the inhabitants has been directly
affected by these defects"

1897
Many of our readers are, perhaps, unaware of the existence of the Church Army
Gazette Brigade. A
representative of the Daily News, hearing that a certain interesting presentation
would take place, paid
a visit to St Matthew's parish-room in Cambridge where the Brigade meetings are
held. The "Gazette" is sold for a modest halfpenny and 475 are disposed of in
Cambridge and the district every week, circulating
principally among the poorer classes. The paper is, of course, of a religious tone
but written in a manner
calculated to arrest attention.

FRIDAY
29th August

1972
The preservation and restoration of the historic frontage of 10-16 Bridge Street,
Cambridge is assured
in new plans for a 40,000 sq.ft. development by the Scottish Mutual Assurance
Company. An earlier version
of the scheme was turned down after a public inquiry. It involved knocking down the
corner building and
replacing it with a new structure which the inspector at the inquiry described as
"aggressive in design". The
new plans preserve the Bridge Street frontage. The scheme occupies a prominent site
at the corner of Round Church Street and Bridge Street which has been a topic of
heated discussion between developers, planners and preservationists for several
years.

1947
An assurance that he would try and bring their families over to England as soon as
possible was given to the
displaced persons at West Wratting Eastern Volunteer Workers' Camp by Mr George
Isaacs, the Minister of Labour, when he visited the camp and inspected it. He had
lunch with about 250 of the E.V.W.s in one of their two dining rooms. The meal, the
normal one served at the camp, consisted of soup, cold beef, salad and potatoes,
baked apple and custard and, finally, coffee. After Mr Isaacs had visited all
sections of the camp, which houses some 900 volunteer workers awaiting employment,
he went on to the former Bottisham airfield where final preparations were being
made for opening another camp the following day when the first intake of 270 was to
arrive

1922
The Newmarket Boy Scouts returned home after a delightful fortnight's camp at
Heacham, a village two
miles from Hunstanton. The weather was generally fine and the Scouts bore very
cheerfully such rain as came along. Everything in camp was hearty and everybody was
in good spirits. There was no sickness, no accidents. A little trouble with the
lads of the village was dealt with. Five village lads used their catapults to
bombard the camp, and two Scout boys were hit, but not hurt. A party of Jewish
young ladies coming down on a holiday fund excursion rather troubled the camp, but
this was soon settled.

1897
Henry Kimpton, grocer, residing on the De Freville Estate, Chesterton, made
application for licence to
sell beer. There were 111 houses upon the Estate, occupied by the class of persons
who would have a great
objection to sending their servants to the Old Spring or the Bowling Green public
houses for the purpose of
obtaining beer. They were well aware that although there were bottle and jug
entrances, these were often
used by persons frequenting the houses.
LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
1st September

1972
Cambridge folk have become accustomed to large scale demolition in various parts of
the city, and soon yet
another prominent building will disappear when the premises of the Hills Road
Methodist Church are sold and taken down for development. The building is much too
large; its seating capacity is 750 and the present membership is less than 200.
Secondly the premises are over 100 years old, and while the sanctuary is in good
condition, the premises downstairs are in a poor state and hopelessly out of date.
As the adjoining premises were being developed it seemed a suitable time to sell.

1947
A young couple paying 30s. rent for two rooms in Cambridge had their rent reduced
to 19s. weekly at a
sitting of the Rents Tribunal in the Guildhall. Appellant rented two rooms in
Longview Terrace, Histon Road. She had the use of the kitchen and a gas stove, and
the cost of electricity and gas was included in the rent. Because the bathroom was
now used as a bedroom, she said, it was only possible to have a bath once every
three weeks or a month - and then water had to be carried into the bathroom

1922
At a meeting of the Ouse Drainage Board the Clerk reported the receipt of an
announcement from the
Ministry of Agriculture sanctioning the continuance of drainage schemes for the
relief of unemployment during the coming winter. Mr Tebbutt said that he was
extremely sorry to hear it. They thought those schemes were temporary expedients,
but now they resulted in the creation of unemployment. Mr Knapp hoped the Board
would hesitate very much before going into schemes or endorsing them. They were
creating a class of professional unemployed, and the more money they spent the more
unemployed they would have. It was a radically wrong thing to do.

1897
Some remarks were made some time ago with regard to the condition of the Cambridge
Workhouse and it was said that the prison would be more comfortable than the
Workhouse. Mr Campkin said he knew the condition of the House more than 20 years
ago, when the place was in a bad condition and when there was nothing but whitewash
on the walls, and that very dirty and grimy. The place then generally bore the
aspect of being neglected. Now he thought it really marvellous. The walls were all
painted, there was a dado of light and cheerful appearance and everything about the
place was scrupulously clean. They found just now that there was a lack of able-
bodied inmates. That was not bad, because they did not want able-bodied persons to
come into the House and it spoke well for those outside the House that they were
able to keep out

TUESDAY
2nd September
1972
The Cambridge & County Folk Museum is run on a shoestring, but thanks to its
indefatigable curator,
Miss Enid Porter, it has become a model of what a people's museum should be -
intimate, quaint and compact. That the museum so ably embraces the local
community's way of life is due, undoubtedly, to the skill and reputation of its
curator, who is acknowledged as an expert on East Anglian folk lore and witchcraft
and is particularly renowned for her understanding of fenland. Miss Porter is a
powerhouse of activity since coming to Cambridge in 1947 she has created an
invaluable display of bygones and bric-a-brac. When it is remembered that she does
it on £3,000 a year the scale and depth of the exhibition is nothing short of
mraculous

1947
Wimpole Park Teachers Training College, one of the newest in he country, as it has
been in existence only
since mid-May, held its first Open Day when some 300 relatives and friends saw an
exhibition of work by
students, most of whom are ex-Servicemen and who are now well into a 13-month
training course. In this short space of time the 266 students have made an amazing
variety of articles which will be of use in
teaching and which they will teach others to make. The Wimpole Park film society
are making a film of college life and the camera was in action throughout the
afternoon.

1922
Monday morning Cambridge saw the performance of a very ancient ceremony - but a
showy relic of more palmy days - the proclamation of "Ye Ancient Faire of
Sturbridge". Shortly before mid-day the Mayor, accompanied by the Town Clark, the
Bailiffs, the Mace-bearer and ouncillors proceeded to Barnwell Bridge for the
first proclamation. Both side of Newmarket Road bore a sprinkling of small boys and
others curious to see the ancient ceremony. Arrived at the bridge the party
alighted from their cars and the Clark read the
customary proclamation and new bright coins freely distributed, resulting in a wild
scramble. The party
next proceeded on to the Common by way of Garlic-row, turned round and repeated the
proclamation at the old oyster house. The Fair will commence on September 25th

1897
The meeting of the Cambridge Street Tramways Company were told that they had been
very unfortunate with their horses. Two had been lost through death. Worse still -
these troubles never came singly - they had had influenza right through the
stables; but thanks to the veterinary surgeon they had no loss from that and the
experts considered now that the horses were better for the influenza. If that were
so they must be very
different to human beings.

WEDNESDAY
3rd September

1972
News that the old R.A.F. station at Stradishall, near Haverhill may be used to
house Ugandan Asians was
greeted with mixed reactions. The chairman of Clare Rural Council said "I regard
the Asian problem as an international one. I think we should bear our share of it
as a nation, but not the whole brunt of it. When little black dictators act like
that what can you expect?" In Stradishall's only pub, the Hound, most ofthe locals
thought it would be a good idea for the Asians to come. Pensioner Mrs Ann Brown
said "Some people just don't like anything - aeroplanes, prisons, anything. I think
it would do the village a lot of good to have some strange people in". Jack Cook
thought the 200 villagers would give the Asians a friendly reception if they came.

1947
A dangerous-looking U.S. Army 45 Remington pistol – a souvenir of the days when
members of the American armed forces outnumbered the local populace - occupied the
attention of the Newmarket Magistrates on Tuesday. Since leaving the possession of
its former American owner the weapon had survived last year's fire at the Cherry
Tree public house, Soham. The licensee (his present premises form the only pre-
fabricated public house in Cambs having been destroyed by fire in September 1946),
was charged with having unlawful possession of the pistol. The defendant came by
the gun in 1944 when some American soldiers left it outside his premises. He
expected them to return for it but they did not do so and he eventually forgot
about it

1922
Recent issues of "The Inquirer" have contained matter interesting to the Cambridge
public. About £4,318 has been received up to date in response to an appeal for the
cost of a site and buildings for the Unitarian
Church. A hall is now being built and will be opened for worship in the autumn. The
site has apace for the
erection of a church, which will ultimately be built beside the hall. The projected
building will only be a
development of a subsisting entity. A Unitarian church has existed at Cambridge for
the best part of 18 years

1897
An inquiry was held in the schoolroom at Hemingford Grey into the proposal of the
Parish Council to borrow £300 for the purposes of providing a burial ground. The
new burial ground is necessary in consequence of the churchyard being practically
full, it not having been enlarged since 1838. The Council has tried in six
different parts of the parish to find a suitable place. It is proposed to purchase
half of the orchard belonging to Mr John Giddons in Pound road. This site is about
as dry a spot as could be obtained

THURSDAY
4th September
1972
Joe Bugner - St Ives' former British European and Commonwealth heavyweight boxing
champion could be
forced to train outside Huntingdonshire if his plan to build a gymnasium at Wyton
is turned down. Joe currently trains in a gymnasium in St Mary's Street in
Huntingdon. His manager Mr Andy Smith said "I should think that in view of Joe
Bugner's contribution to this county in the past they could perhaps give him a
little consideration"

1947
In the words of Councillor Frank Priest "the new floor of the Cambridge Guildhall
is well and truly laid".
This brief ceremony was performed last night at the first Ball of the season, and
what a delight it was to
dance on such a new and beautifully polished floor. One couple, probably so
unaccustomed to such smoothness in Cambridge, were rather too enthusiastic and
found themselves, quite unintentionally, making a seat on the floor! It is thought
that some of the shoes and hob-nail boots worn by dancers during the war years was
the reason for the bad state of the previous floor.

1922
Cambridge is very different from most places. Most of the churches here, until
quite recently, have been
served by ministers who were Fellows of colleges and lived in their college rooms.
Before the colleges came
there can be little doubt that each parish has its vicarage but in course of time
these houses disappeared. But St Botolph's has been more fortunate. During the last
700 years there has always been a lodging for the incumbent somewhere within the
parish, either in Corpus, or in Queens' or outside college walls. For 300 years the
parsonage house was opposite the church at the corner of Silver-street. A little
more than 50 years since, when the old churchwarden built the present fine house,
the lodging there was given up. But the parish still had its rector on the spot
with a succession of rectors having the same rooms in Queens' college. In these
times when there are so many undergraduates the college needs all its available
space and it is no longer content to have the rector inside its walls

1897
By the kindness of a firm of furniture van proprietors, four well-known Cambridge
men started upon a fishing expedition for a spot upon the river known as "Dimmock's
Cote". Considerable excitement was caused in the fens by the van, many wondering
who was to be moved. The few natives were much amused at the novelty, and the
cooking of a pan full of savoury Cambridge sausages in the open air brought them
round. One afternoon no less than ten visitors were entertained to tea; they were
not all gentlemen. Not a dull hour was experienced by anyone of the party

FRIDAY
5th September

1972
"The demolition of the old Y.M.C.A. building will no doubt bring a touch of
nostalgia to many of the
Cambridge residents who have lived here for well over 70 years. I can remember that
the very first "talking
pictures" in Cambridge were shown there. These took the form of a rather jerky film
show, screened from the rear, and the talking was done by a lady and gentleman
behind the screen, After the performance they came to the front and bowed to the
audience, which, on Saturday afternoon mainly consisted of children, and each child
was given either an orange or a bag of sweets on the way out" - letter from
F.C.Woolfenden

1947
Secrecy surrounding boring operations now in progress at Coton has given rise to
extraordinary rumours in the village. "They are prospecting for uranium deposits"
was the general brief amongst several villagers. The
operations began last week when to men from London started boring a 20ft hole on
the Whitwell bridle path,
which is War Department property and used by the Territorial Association as a rifle
range. The truth is
that the borings are being made on behalf of the Metropolitan Water Board to
discover the type of ground
through which mains would have to pass if the Board proceeded with a scheme to take
a supply from the River Ouse.

1922
A special meeting of the Cambridge Education Committee was held at Brunswick School
on the report of the Borough Surveyor. He said that the rooms at the north end of
the building were not safe for occupation and would have to be pulled down. He
could not be responsible for the safety of the children if that
portion of the school were opened after the holiday. They looked over the building
and found that the
foundations were slipping, the bricks in many cases were loose and breaking away.
The buildings had been a
source of trouble and anxiety for some time but there was no need for the alarming
reports that had been
spread - one that a portion of the school had fallen down and some children had
been injured. No injury had
been done at all

1897
The Bishop of Ely has offered the appointment of Vicar of Littleport to the Rev
F.E. Rogers, curate of St
Matthew's. Cambridge and of St James' Mission Church. Mr Rogers has been in
Cambridge for about 14 years. He has been termed the "father" of all the young men
in the parish and has been the means of reclaiming some of the most obstinate
cases. He was also to a great degree instrumental in bringing the Church Army into
Cambridge. He is also founder of the hostel for undergraduates in Abbey Walk which
enables young gentlemen to have, in addition to a university education, a parochial
education of the highest order

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
8th September
1972
For an event that will create such havoc in the Saffron Walden area, the coming of
the M11 has caused
surprisingly little resentment among the affected residents. Local people are
either being remarkably
tolerant and understanding of the nation's needs, or else they have not yet
comprehended the likely effects
of this concrete serpent as it winds its way across the countryside. The latest
official line from the Eastern
Road Construction Unit is that a start will be made late next summer and that the
work will be completed in
two years.

1947
Out of the remains of the Priory Grounds at Royston there is about to be created a
centre of open-air recreation that will be worthy, not only of the town, but of
the Glorious Dead, whose Supreme Sacrifice it will call future generations to
honour. This week there is being launched an appeal for the final £1,000 needed for
the provision of this, the townspeople's chosen Memorial to the Fallen of the
Second World War. Work has already been started by direct local labour, but other
special skilled work will be needed to install the tennis courts, erect fences and
entrance gates etc and, in view of the ever-increasing cost of materials, it is
advisable to proceed with the utmost speed.

1922
At the meeting of Linton Rural Council the Clerk read a letter from the Ministry of
Transport enclosing an
agreement whereby the Ministry paid half the Surveyor's salary, the Surveyor not to
be appointed or dismissed without the approval of the Ministry. Mr Brocklebank
proposed non-acceptance of the offer because from long experience of Government
grants he had found that they never gave a grant without they took something back.
They always said that they were going to do nothing but they "put the screws on"
later on. This Council was responsible for the government of this district and they
ought to be masters in their own house.
1897
Dr Harris, of the Grove, Stapleford, was peculiar. Opening with the 5th of February
this year, when the
trap delivered his baggage for the first time in Stapleford, Dr Harris seems to
have carried on in high style by virtue of sheer audacity and bounce, driving about
in a trap that did not belong to him, with a horse for which he had not paid and
driven by a servant, who by some rule contrary to that generally governing such
persons was content apparently to work without wages. Their orders were for the
"best of everything" and local tradesmen - for a time - regularly deposited their
goods at the Doctor's door and came away sweetly hoping for a day of reckoning.
Some of them tried the reckoning without getting anything, others got more than was
wanted of the wrong kind of settlement

TUESDAY
9th September
1972

Just a few miles from Cambridge on the fast A604, the Trinity Foot continues to
service a wide selection of
lunches without dropping its standards in the process. I chose a beef curry and was
surprised at the generous
portion for 40p. My companion chose a cold chicken salad accompanied by a side
plate of "extras" such as Russian salad, cold baked beans, potato etc for 50p. With
two pints of well-kept Whitbread Tankard our bill came to £1.22 - perhaps a trifle
expensive for everyday eating out, although we could have had a good lunch there
for far less.

1947
A Manchester young doctor engaged in atomic research, involving a substance
produced infrequently at
Cambridge, which becomes useless after about 34 hours, received a telephone message
that the substance had been taken out of the instrument. He started from Manchester
at midnight and drove to Cambridge mostly through mists. He thought it was
essential for him to return at once. At 7am he was involved in an accident which
renderd the substance useless. It was impossible to carry the substance mentioned
by train because of the number of changes on the route. They had endeavoured to
carry it by aircraft but this had not proved practical. At the time of the accident
defendant had been driving slowly, because the substance was in glass tubes

1922
Delightful weather favoured the annual gymkhana of the Cambridge and County Motor
Club. The first item was tilting at the ring for motor cycles, sidecar machines and
cars. The slow race for motor cycles produced a good race, Robinson had his machine
best under control and, travelling at a snail's pace, eventually won with plenty to
spare. The blindfold race for cars and motor-cycles was a very amusing affair and
the last event, shooting for goal with a football whilst riding a motor cycle was
quite an interesting item. A novel idea was the illumination of the enclosure by
the headlamps of the members' cars, the glasses of the lamps being covered with
coloured tissue paper

1897
When you mention the name of Dr Harris to the head of the firm of Hunnybun and son,
coachbuilders of
Cambridge, his genial face beams. On 24th February Harris bought a governess car,
neglecting, however to
pay over the sheckels. Within a week he came back with the cart and exchanged it
for a phaeton. But Messrs
Hunnybun are "canny" men. They sent a man with a polite note to the Doctor stating
that the wheels of the
phaeton they found were not altogether right in some small detail, would the Doctor
allow them to rectify the fault. The faulty wheeled - and unpaid for – phaeton
revolved on those wheels to Sidney Street, and never rolled back again

WEDNESDAY
10th September

1972
Just in case The Bomb should ever drop, eight powerful new air raid warning sirens
are to be installed in
Cambridgeshire. Although few people ever see or hear them, the Home Office has
about 22,000 warning points in the United Kingdom equipped with electric or hand
sirens for air attack warnings and maroons for fall-out warnings. Now they are to
be replaced by powerful compressed-air sirens which are much more efficient and
much louder. The eight which are to be installed in Cambridgeshire will be at
Brooklands Avenue, Cambridge, Waterbeach Barracks, Oakington airfield, Great
Wilbraham, the old Duxford airfield, Bassingbourn Barracks Lt Eversden & Linton

1947
One ofthe good things which had come out of the war, was the way in which Mr Leslie
Symonds (Borough M.P.) described the Falcon Club when he was opening their annual
fete on Saturday. The Club was now open to any man or woman over the age of 18 who
was making some contribution to the welfare of this country. It was started during
the war particularly for the benefit of transferred war workers, but since then the
whole basis of the organisation had been extended and now is very definitely a club
for everyone - perhaps not everyone, because it is obvious that spivs are not
eligible for membership

1922
The good people of Swavesey fairly let themselves in for it this year when they
dispatched miniature balloons at the flower show Last week a letter was received
from a German pastor begging that a collection might be made in Swavesey to help
repair his church organ. This week Mr C. Wood, the Swavesey headmaster had received
another letter from Westphalia which reads: "We Germans are now a poor and unhappy
people and we cannot find any pleasure in life. In consequence of the war our
German money is now valueless. I am a poor tradesman with a large family to
support. If you and your friends are living in poor circumstances you have my
greatest sympathy; but should you and your friends be well-to-do people I pray you
to remember my neediness"

1897
An Isleham man was summoned for assaulting Thomas William Fenn. Complainant said he
was in the Queen's Head inn at Isleham, when defendant came in and interfered with
him, striking him twice and threatening to kill him. At last witness knocked him
down and got away. Defendant had asked him for 1s. and then for 6d. but he replied
he had not got it. After defendant had struck him twice he knocked him down with an
iron spittoon. Defendant denied he had struck complainant, but said the latter
half killed him with the spittoon. Case dismissed

THURSDAY
11th September
1972
St John's College, Cambridge, have refused to sell land on the long disused army
camp at Milton which
Cambridgeshire & Isle of Ely County Council want for building a gypsy caravan park.
For years the City Council have been urging the County council to provide a site
near Cambridge for a gypsy caravan park to prevent gipsies from illegally occupying
various council owned land in Cambridge. But whenever either the city or county
have suggested any particular site there has been an immediate public outcry
against the plan

1947
Nearly 1,500 employees at Messrs Chivers' Histon factory were on the air for the
first time yesterday to supply those generous blasts of applause which characterise
the "Workers' Playtime" half-hour. Packing the works canteen to capacity they
observed compere-cum-cheerleader Bryan Sears' "instructions" in good part and
precisely at the end of the ten-second on-the-air red warning, unleashed a swell of
applause. Particularly during the war the Chivers canteen has been the venue for
many E.N.S.A. lunch-time concerts and the Works Orchestra now often entertains the
workers there.

1922
This years harvest has been delayed by the bad weather, and in many places little
has been done. It will be very late in the month before the harvest is complete.
The farmers have had to contend with a drought in the early summer and continuous
rains since. A heavy crop of potatoes is reported everywhere but correspondents
add that the prices "hardly pay for digging". There is an abundance of fruit,
especially of plums, but here again the complaint of poor prices comes in.

1897
Some extraordinary scenes have been witnessed in the parish church of Ashley, near
Newmarket, whose rector is very deaf and far from young. The curate arranged for a
harvest thanksgiving service this week and the rector objected to the arrangements.
At the morning service the organ was mute owing to the fact that a lady occupied
the organist's seat by direction of the rector and when asked to supply tunes said
she should please herself and did not play. The rector and curate entered the
church together and the former, after some contention, began the service of the
day. When the curate and congregation audibly objected the rector raised his voice
to drown the dissent, and all the congregation but three left the church. Thereupon
the rector summarily closed the service. Dissatisfaction has been rife amongst the
villagers since the time when it is alleged the rector read the burial service at a
wedding. The Rector accounts for the mistake by stating that his bookmark was
purposely put in the wrong page.

FRIDAY
12th September
1972
A full-time tourist officer should be apppointed for Cambridge, a special meeting
on tourism decided
yesterday. They also agreed that a disused car park attendant's hut on the Market
Square should be commissioned as a tourist information centre. The Mayor, Coun.
Peter Wright suggested that voluntary workers could staff a tourist information
kiosk in Market Square. The City Librarian, Mr Eric Cave, suggested that if the
kiosk plan went ahead it could remain open on Sundays so that the present Sunday
skeleton service at the Information bureau could be closed down.

1947
While housing is still one of the most urgent problems facing the country, it is
encouraging to see where
progress is really being made, and such an excellent example of British workmanship
as the house at
Waterbeach which has been erected under the Chesterton Rural District Council's
post-war programme. This house, no.28 Bannold Road, was inspected by members of the
council on Thursday. Built of red brick it makes use of every available inch of
space. The front door opens into a red-tiled hall, at the end of which is situated
a red tiled kitchen. Mr F. Cooper (chief carpenter) said these tiles had been used
because of expenditure but all other rooms had the usual wooden floors. Few
housewives would find fault with this though, for besides looking very attractive,
it is easier for cleaning. The front room has a plug for wireless aerial and power
points, which, incidentally are in every room of the house

1922
The stackyard of the Sidney Poultry Farm, occupied by Messrs Pamplin Bros at
Cherryhinton was the scene of a big fire last night. Soon after 9pm a vivid red
glow in the sky attracted attention everywhere in Cambridge. Those who did not at
first notice the glow were surprised to see policemen running and soon quite a
respectable crowd had gathered outside the fire station. The firemen were in
readiness for a call but for some time no call came and the crowd had to be content
with looking at the sky and making conjectures as to where the fire was. Shortly
before 9.45 the call came through by 'phone and the Dennis engine went out. The
road from Cambridge to the scene was a continuous stream of bicycles and
pedestrians. Arrived at the farm the curious were well rewarded by the spectacle
that greeted them.

1897
St Ives Town Council Surveyor had examined the gas pipes running by the sewer. In
one place the gas pipe went right across the sewer, obstructiing about one fourth
of it. In another case the gas pipe ran diagonally with the sewer, obstructing it.
He did not think the Gas Company were the chief sinners in the matter. He thought
it was the town. In some cases the sewers were laid over the gas pipes
LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
15th September
1972
Six out of seven vehicles which travel along Newmarket High Street - the bottleneck
of East Anglia's road system – will be diverted away from the town if a 14-mile-
long by-pass is built, a Department of the Environment official told a public
inquiry yesterday. "On market days, on race days, at weekends and at many other
times, long queues develop through the town centre of Newmarket and stretch back,
sometimes for miles, along the main roads into the town" John Coates of the Eastern
Road Construction unit said.

1947
On Saturday airfields and stations throughout East Anglia will be open to the
public. The largest - and by common consent certainly the most attractive of these
stations is the Bomber Command operational station at Stradishall. It was from
these West Suffolk runways during the latter years of the war that Wellingtons,
Stirlings and, later, the giant Lancaster bombers took the R.A.F.'s attack right
into the heart of industrial Germany. Members of the public will be invited to
control an aircraft in flight by radio. If you feel like
dropping a bomb you can do so - at the A.M.L. bombing Teacher

1922
The Ministry of Health Inquiry into the proposals for the development of the east
side of Cambridge was
conducted at the Guildhall. There was practically no opposition. It will be
remembered that the scheme
provides for the laying out of 21 new roads or streets, including a main road from
Hills Road to Newmarket-road. The area includes 502 acres in the rural district of
Chesterton

1897
The Market place at Mildenhall was early on Monday morning the scene of a
disastrous fire. The outbreak
occurred between the warehouse of Messrs Firth Bros, grocers and drapers, and that
of Mr C. Morley, furniture dealer. The fire spread rapidly, the warehouses being of
an inflammable nature; the goods stored were also highly inflammable and seven
barrels of petroleum exploded. The Mildenhall Fire Brigade was promptly on the spot
with their two manual engines. A granary filled with straw ignited but was
successfully dealt with by the firemen, or it is probable the White Hart Hotel
would have been in immediate danger. Owing to the proximity of the fire to the
bank, the agent thought it desirable to remove the cash and securities from the
office. After two hours hard work the brigade managed to cut off the burning
building, but it was a narrow escape for the whole of the side of the Market Square

TUESDAY
16th September
1972
Two men have launched in Cambridge a unique publications and visual aids service
for industry to fill the gap between straight advertising and full scale book
publication. Their firm, Woodhead-Faulkner (Publishers) ltd began business at 7
Rose Crescent this week. The whole concept is one of "below the line" advertising
in which firms sponsor books in highly specialist fields while at the same time
getting publicity for their products from the sponsorship

1947
Clerks, shopkeepers and mechanics during the week, fifty motor-cyclist enthusiasts
of the South Midland Centre took their courage - and their machines - in both hands
on Sunday to give 5,000 cheering spectators the sports thrill of their lives. The
occasion was the Cambridge Centaur Motor Cycle Club's second scramble of the season
at Cherry Hinton chalk pits and, unhappily the last for an indefinite period
because of the abolition of the basic petrol ration. For five exciting hours, the
competitors urged their snorting, bucking, skidding mounts over a gruelling course
which comprised nearly a mile of the toughest ground in the county

1922
Preaching at New Service Hall, Eden Street, Cambridge, Pastor Prescott gave a
striking account of present
conditions in Ireland, which he recently visited on holiday. He told how he had
made his way to the Dublin
Central Post Office passing scores of Free State soldiers at every corner. On
arrival the atmosphere seemed charged with danger, "I made rapid strides for the
door only to find my way barred by two men brandishing revolvers. I was a prisoner
after being in Dublin only two hours. Presently the rest of the Irregulars
proceeded to pour oil over every part of the building and place explosives round
among the bags of mail and set the place on fire. The building was burning over our
heads and the order came 'Prisoners run with hands up'. We ran up a side street
away from the burning building. Bombs were bursting, shots were flying, for the
Free Troops had arrived. I walked a considerable distance along a deserted street
with my hands up and
finally arrived at home, feeling fortunate to be alive"

1897
A 15 year old lad from Wixoe, Suffolk, appeared at Haverhill petty sessions,
charged with stealing a purse
containing 1s., the property of his mother. PC Oldring stated that he had known
four of her sons for about five years. They were running about all day long in
rags, and committed all sorts of minor depredations, but people would not prosecute
them. He had visited their house and found only one old table there and two or
three chairs. The boys were eating bread and something that looked meat gravy out
of a basin. The house was in a filthy condition.
WEDNESDAY
17th September
1972
The lychgate made by prisoners of war in Changi Prison, Singapore, in 1942 has been
brought to England and reassembled at Bassingbourn Barracks, near Royston. A small
plaque on a side post tells how the gate was made by men of the 18th division of
the British Army, which included men from the Cambridgeshire Regiment, and erected
at the entrance to the prison cemetery where abut 600 prisoners of war were buried.
When the cemetery was cleared after the war and the dead reinterred elsewhere, the
lychgate was removed and later put up outside St George's Garrison Church at
Tanglin.

1947
Cambridge's first midnight matinee, attended by film star Richard Attenborough, and
stage-and-screen star
Hermione Baddeley, drew a packed house of near 2,000 to the Regal last night. The
show, organised by the
Cambridge branch of the R.A.F. Association was part of the Battle of Britain Week
activities. "Dicky" and
"Totie" as the stars are popularly known made a stage appearance before the show.
Major Simpson, area manager of A.B.C. cinemas recalled that Mr Attenborough was
born in Cambridge. Dicky mentioned that thought he had been born in Cambridge he
left the town "practically before my eyes were open". When the show finished
shortly before two o'clock "Dicky" and "Totie" stayed behind to autograph
programmes

1922
Judging by the enthusiasm shown at the first meeting of the Littleport Women's
Institute it is quite safe to
assume that the branch is going to be a great success. 45 new members were
enrolled, thus giving a satisfactory nucleus for the formation of a flourishing
branch. Mrs Luddington stressed that it was non-political and undenominational and
there were over 2,000 institutes throughout the country. A demonstration of basket
and tray making was given by Mrs Comins and Mrs Covill. A "nonsense" competition
caused great amusement, after which games and dancing were joined in by all.

1897
Harry Wilson went to Thurrock's Farm, Clavering, with Ernest Harvey, as they heard
they wanted two harvest-men there. They were to be paid £7 for five weeks' harvest
and went to work on August 9th. They cut an acre of barley in less than four hours.
The bailiff had said they had cut too much and got before the other people. One and
a half acres was too much for one man to cut in a day. There were four other men in
the harvest. The farmer said they were not paid by the acre, but by the day and the
amount they cut was totally insufficient for the amount paid them. They were paid
4s.8d a day, and they should have mowed an acre apiece. The farm bailiff said an
ordinary labourer should cut two acres a day at about 3s an acre.
THURSDAY
18th September
1972
Cambridge City Council have halted the demolition of some of their old prefab
bungalows at Histon Road while officials find out if they could be used for housing
Ugandan Asians. The bungalows, which were built shortly after the Second World War
as temporary homes, are being demolished to make way for a large council houses and
flats development. A few of the buildings are still occupied but the tenants are
due to move shortly.

1947
Eagle Tavern Children's Outing. An exciting day out was enjoyed by 70 children in a
river trip to Upware. On arrival they sat down to an excellent sandwich lunch, and
then managed to consume five gallons of ice-cream kindly given by a local firm,
besides over 1 cwt of fruit, given by a friend in the country. An exciting
sports programme followed in which every child received a prize, and then sat down
to an excellent tea after
which they sang themselves back to Cambridge

1922
Wireless amateurs who are not owner-occupiers are discovering that landlords object
to the putting up of
aerials. Radio enthusiasts will probably do better to wait until it becomes certain
on what lines the
broadcasting hobby will be developed and perfected. It is not making such rapid
progress as people expected and those who wait a little will probably save money.
By all accounts it will not be necessary to have aerials at all. Any ordinary
electric light installations will provide all that is necessary for an efficient
wireless
aerial. It there is neither electric light or bells, gas pipes can be used, or
failing this a wire garden fence,
or it may be said nothing more than a pair of knitting needles will be essential.
All this remains to be proved
and just as it took a long while to perfect the gramophone so we must expect it to
be with wireless developments

1897
Let no reader think that this is a pleasant story. It is not, for it is tainted by
tyranny distasteful to free citizens. For the past two years education at Longstowe
has not pursued its onward course quite smoothly, for during that time the Rector
and his daughter appear to regard the master of the Church Schools as their sport
and play-thing, to be bandied about "from pillar to post" just as suits their
autocratic fancy. Having made a schoolmaster in a Lincolnshire parish fairly
uncomfortable the sire and his daughter came down to Longstowe Rectory in 1895 and
at once tried their hand on Mr & Mrs Rowland, who for several years had
been training the young ideas of the parish to the satisfaction of the manager, the
parents and the inspectors. But they have now resigned their position rather than
lackey to the new-comer who, with his "I insist" made life anything but one of
pleasurable liberty.

FRIDAY
19th September
1972
A rubbish-filled claypit off Coldham's Lane, Cambridge, bought by a firm of London
property developers less than four years ago for little more than £100,000, has
just been resold for £300,000 with out a single
building being put on it. The former claypit was filled with rubbish in the late
1940s before being bought by
Mr Richard Duce in 1948 for "a matter of a few pence". In the mid 1960s attempys
were made to build a shopping centre on the site but these fell through. Then at
the end of 1968 Summerfield Developments bought the seven- acre block with an
option on the remaining seven. Plans were announced to build warehouses but these
in turn fell through. Now the land has been bought by J. Coral Estates, another
firm of London developers at around £40,000 an acre. Coral also intend building
warehouses

1947
I hear that the "shooting" of the Cambridge Accident Prevention Council's new film
finished this week, after
difficulties caused by the death of five of its "extras" through poisoning. The
"extras" concerned were puppies who absorbed through their pads a solution with
which the kennels had been sprayed. They were duly replaced, and final shots of a
number of pups walking over a pedestrian crossing were taken on
Thursday in a garden at Stapleford. Teaching some of the lessons of road safety the
film will show a dog doing kerb drill, as well as driving a small car and observing
the rules of the road, including stopping at the traffic lights! The film is
believed to be the first of its kind.

1922
The condition of Mill-road Cemetery for long past has not been creditable to a town
like Cambridge. The
Borough Cemetery is a delightful flower garden compared to the Mill-road Cemetery
which is an amalgamation of the parish churchyards. Some parts of the cemetery are
well tended, others are dreary wastes whose evidence of neglect have now been
removed by the unemployed at the expense of the ratepayers. The question is whether
these reclaimed spaces are again to be permitted to run wild. No church which lets
its graveyards get into the deplorable state of the Mill-road Cemetery can be truly
described as a live church

1897
The wheat farmers of the Eastern Counties are invited to discard the cultivation of
grain for the growth of flax. It is claimed that flax will yield a much greater
return per acre than wheat. Flax and hemp straw should be received from the farmers
as grown and the fibres manufactured by The English Fibres Industries Company who
have just revived the flax mills at Great Shelford and at Long Melford in Suffolk,
which had been closed

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
22nd September
1972
The church clock has stood for far too long at ten to three, and Grantchester has
deteriorated with time. Its
inhabitants seem to be living still on past glories and cannot see that their
world-renowned village is but a
shadow of what it was. Or to put it in the words of Mr Reginald Lambeth and Mr
Vernon Cross "The whole village can only be described as scruffy". Messrs Lambeth
and Cross came to their conclusion one summer day in June.They had been charged
with the task, unpaid, of picking out Cambridgeshire's best kept village. Swaffham
Prior won the contest and Mr Lambeth and Mr Cross eliminated Grantchester in the
second round. They were "shocked by the low standards of "property maintenance"
although they mentioned notable exceptions such as the White Cottage. The decrepit
state of things, they say, cannot be blamed on the roadman, who has to look after
three villages, nor on the traffic. Bitterly they conclude; "People who are proud
of their association of Rupert Brooke should at least keep to his standards"

1947
Waterbeach R.A.F. station - a wartime home of Bomber Command and now operated by
Transport Command - was on Saturday invaded by at least ten thousand people at the
Air Forces "at home" on the 7th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. Waterbeach is
one of the permanent type of R.A.F. stations, and its main job is the transporting
of troops, mail and freight from this country to Singapore. Daily giant Avro Yorks,
as safe and as comfortable as human ingenuity can make them, leave for Lyneham in
Wilts, where they pick up passengers. In a large hangar visitors saw an Avro York
aircraft being services and clambered all over the plane which is capable of
carrying 37 people, including crew, and which enables them to travel more
comfortably then they would often do on the ground. In another hanger was a German
V.1, different kinds of bombs, aircraft spares and equipment.

1922
For the second time the incinerator proposed to be erected by the Ely Urban
District Council for the
destruction of the city's refuse gave rise to a debate, in which opinion was rather
sharply divided. Originally
the subject arose out of the nuisance caused through the dumping of rubbish at the
Mill Pits and the rates which were attracted there by it

1897
Messrs Griffiths and Chennell, Newmarket are favoured with instructions to offer
for sale by auction all that
valuable freehold estate known as Newmarket Mills, at which a lucrative business
has been carried on for many years. The powerful tower windmill, advantageously
situated on a commanding site with the goodwill of the business as a going concern

TUESDAY
23rd September
1972

The Mayor of Cambridge, Coun Peter Wright, last night gave an assurance that the
City Council had no intention of promoting tourism at the expense of attempts to
expand light industry in the city. In fact, he told the council's Library
Committee, the council must encourage light industry if they were to boost
tourism. "The more industry we have here the more will be the council's rates
income. The council can then spend more on providing facilities for tourists, as
well as their own citizens", the Mayor said. Ald Elliot Ridgeon warned that there
was the danger that more tourists than ever would come to Cambridge as the result
of appointing a tourist officer

1947
A device by which chimneys can be cleaned without making any soot or dirt in the
room is being tried out in
Cambridge by Super-clean from Hartington Grove. I understand the customary method
of chimney sweeping is followed. The difference is that a device is fitted right
over the stove, thus preventing soot from flying into the room. The main difficulty
is that of adapting it to fit the many different sizes and types of grate. It costs
more, and takes longer to have chimneys swept this way. An ordinary chimney costs
6s and it takes three-quarters of an hour to do the job - maybe longer. As a symbol
as the cleanliness of the method the operator arrives at your door in a short
white jacket

1922
At a meeting of Ely water-supply committee Mr Laxton raised the question of putting
water meters into all
gardens in which hose pipes or sprinklers were used. His contention was that the
water used should be paid for and the only way of ensuring that was by putting a
meter in. Sometimes people went to bed and forgot that the water was left running

1897
A special meeting was held in the Hills-road Wesleyan Chapel, Cambridge, in
celebration of its re-opening. The chapel has been closed for three weeks and
during that time the seats and galleries have been re-varnished, the walls and
pillars painted, the heating apparatus renovated, the electric light substituted
for gas,
coloured windows for plain and a rostrum has been made to take the place of the old
pulpit. Mr Isard, hon.sec. said those who worshipped in the side galleries had
spoken to him for years past on the badness of the light. Those who sat just behind
the gas standards too, found a great difficulty in seeing the speaker and were
continually dazzled. They resolved to put in the electric light at a cost of about
£60. The Minister said
he was sorry they had not got the electric light on but in consequence of the
engineers' strike the company had not been able to get the connections on

WEDNESDAY
24th September

1972
The introduction of a computer has brought the board's accounting right up to date
and saved the work of half a person, the Clerk to Ely, Mildenhall and Newmarket
Water Board told members yesterday. Mr J.W. Robins said that for the first time he
could remember all accounting was up to date and the stores programme and accounts
were to be transferred to the machine was soon as possible. He said the equivalent
of half a person's duties had been taken over, but there had been no redundancy
because somebody was
still needed to answer the telephone.

1947
The question of providing further primary school accommodation at Cherry Hinton was
mentioned at the
Cambridge Borough General Purposes Commitee. At a July meeting, when it was thought
200 aluminum bungalows were to be build immediately it was decided to arrange for
the early erection of two classrooms
adjoining Cherry Hinton school. However it is now proposed to proceed with the
erection of only 100
aluminum bungalows, 75 of which would be allocated to civil servants and it was
impossible to forecast the
amount of educational accommodation required.

1922
At a meeting held in the Parish Hall, Union-road, Cambridge it was decided to erect
a memorial to the late
Mgr Provost Scott, rector of the Church of Our Lady and the English Martyrs. The
chairman said the late rector had been nearly forty years in the parish and he was
the initiation of the change from the little old church which used to stand in
Union-lane to the present large and handsome edifice. He had built up all its
traditions and had set up a high standard of services. He mentioned proposed
schemes including the erection of a Calvary over the tomb, a monument in the church
- a recumbent effigy or a brass, or some definite work further beautifying the
church which the late Provost built and loved

1897
Sir - Your correspondent "A walk from Romsey Town" does not go into the source of
the general Babel that is going on every Sunday on the Mill-road, Cambridge, with
its accompanying excitement. Why are not the authors of noise and confusion - the
Salvation Army - asked to desist their Cymbals and big drums and other kinds of
music (?) in a narrow thoroughfare. A newspaper boy calling out the names of his
paper is simply joining in the general chorus of excitement. No doubt many are glad
to get something to read to go into their houses. The fining of a poor boy for
disseminating literature in such a district on Sunday must be bad law, and the
sooner repealed the better" - "Cede Deo"

THURSDAY
25th September

1972
Police arrested five youths, two from Peterborough, and rushed a sixth to hospital
after running battles between rival gangs of supporters following Saturday's Fourth
Division derby at the Abbey Stadium. Fighting broke out at the Newmarket Road end
soon after Cambridge United scored the first of their three goals. Police moved in
and restored a vestige of order. This was the pattern with skin-headed youths
proudly presenting bloodied noses for their pals' benefit. A raging battle with
fists and feet flying sent ordinary supporters scurrying for shelter. Fathers
lifted children above their heads and cups of coffee and orange squash were hurled
into peaceful sections of the crowd.

1947
A meeting of the Gas and Electricity Fuel Economy Committee was held in the
Cambridge Guildhall. Mr H.R. Stanley pointed out that most of the colleges have
made an arrangement whereby they can cut off the heat entirely from the rooms at
times when it is not permitted. "You can take it from me, they are getting no
preference whatever". Shop lighting was also discussed. Mr P. Sydney (Cambridge
Electric Supply co) said: "I think this economy business has been in force so long
that a lot of people have forgotten the time before the war when shops blazed with
light, and as many as 3,000 watts were used in one window. Shops won't waste
electricity", he added. "They don't want to invite criticism from people"

1922
At Ely Urban District Council the advisability of disposing of the Nutholt Close
for the purposes of
dwelling-houses was considered. They had a programme for 200 houses but of these 20
were erected in Ely and 8 at Stuntney - a meagre quantity. The chairman commented;
"Some of the tenders for the houses to be erected on the Prickwillow site are
ridiculous". Prices per pair ranged from F. Tucker of Ely at £400, whilst F.
Ambrose quoted £750, Hobbs & son of Downham £906.10s.2d and F.W. Edwards of
Prickwillow £1,500. A list of houses in Prickwillow to which water was supplied
from the new main was laid before the meeting. The committee recommended that in
all cases where there was not a sufficient supply of wholesome water on the
premises that notices be served to make the necessary connections in order to
obtain a supply

1897
This month may be said to witness the coming of age of the town of Royston, as,
after many years of sore trials and tribulations in the matter of local government,
the unification of the town may be said to have been
completed by the coming into operation of the order forming the town into an urban
district. This is an end
that has been long and patiently worked and waited for by the inhabitants

FRIDAY
26th September
1972
The Wolfson Building of Trinity College, Cambridge, once described as a liner
stranded in a dry dock, opened its doors yesterday for an official tour of
inspection. The building rises lozenge-shaped behind the historic and preserved
facades of Trinity Street in the city centre. It is topped by two large winged
roof-lights, which, the architects said, were added deliberately to be a modern
feature of the city skyline. The scheme provides rooms for 125 Trinity students.
Beneath the college buildings are the commercial premises which include the
Sainsbury supermarket, Heffer's booksellers, Horne's the men's outfitters and
Barclays Bank.
1947
Urging whole-hearted support by members of the Cambridge & District Grocers'
Association, the retiring President (Mr E.H.Cherry) warned "There is in this town
and district a strong flood of opinion favouring the co-operative and chain-store
movement. We know that these opposing forces have got to exist in the world of free
enterprise; it is good for us that they should, and it is good that the housewife
should be at liberty to
choose between the type of trading she prefers. But it is up to us to build our
banks of private enterprise so
strong as to keep the opposing forces flowing in their proper channels"

1922
"In the whole course of my experience I don't remember a more distressing case of
such lawlessness,
insubordination and juvenile criminality", said Mr A.S. Campkin at the conclusion
of the hearing at the
Cambridge Juvenile Court of a remarkable series of charges of housebreaking, shop-
breaking, office-breaking and theft which had been preferred against three boys
aged respectively 10, 13 and 14. There were no less than 23 charges in all

1897
The quiet little village of Steeple Bumpstead, near Haverhill, was the scene of an
occurrence on Sunday
morning that occasioned considerable excitement amongst the inhabitants. A well-
known cyclist who has been residing with his wife and three children for nearly two
years being observed in headlong flight through part of the village with a crowd of
men in full cry after him. It appears that a "Royal Enfield" bicycle was missed
from a gentleman's house at Rotherwick, Hampshire. A man being seen in the
neighbourhood with a lady's machine in addition to the one he was riding, a couple
of "tecs" picked up the trail and arrived at Bumpstead. Next morning they got into
conversation with the suspect who suddenly seized his hat, ran through the house,
over a hedge and to the open country. The missing bicycle was discovered cunningly
concealed under a dog-kennel, partly in pieces. The suspect was arrested on Tuesday
morning and conveyed to Castle Hedingham Police Station

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
29th September
1972
Only hours after moves began to cut its food bill, a Cambridge hospital has learned
that it is one of the top
four in the country for its bill of fare. New Addenbrooke's Hospital is only one of
four hospitals named in a
national survey by the Egon Ronay organisation as providing "completely good
meals". The Ronay accolade is a tribute to the efforts of New Addenbrooke's head
chef Douglas Lambert and catering officer Miss Mary Chivers - still working
together in the kitchens after 24 years. General hospitals visited spend an average
of £2.40 each week on food for patients. The food bill at New Addenbrooke's has
risen recently to £3.20, and the Hospital's estimates committee recommended the
bill should be cut back to about £2.50

1947
Sir - A dustman's wage is £3.16s.0d a week, irrespective of loads or journeys. I
wonder if your readers would like to try this job for a while. They would then find
out the discomforts which are a dustman's lot. He
mustn't mind when lifting a bin if water and filth trickle down his neck through a
hole; he mustn't mind if
somebody puts some acid in a bin which when emptied sprays on one's clothes and
burns holes in them (these are not replaced). One pair of overalls a year is the
limit. Each motor is given a district and that has to be cleared, and if the dust
and smell should make him feel ill he must just carry on. With all this we are
expected to sort all the paper from the dirt. If all householders kept it separate
it would be different. Critics should try on a windy day, emptying a bin that has
been crammed full. It is impossible to to it without some dropping but if the
loaders top to pick it up every time, the driver would be in the next street" - a
Dustman

1922
The provision of billiard tables in the New Chesterton Institute has undoubtedly
been a paying concern. Four
tables having proved inadequate, the billiards room has had to be extended and
another table added to cope with the requirements of the experienced and budding
cueists

1897
At Cambridge's ancient Stourbridge Fair there is no lack of "local colour". Mongrel
dogs lurch around after cross- eyed men and towsy-headed women; a maudlin old
tippler recites, stuttering, the composition of one of the great unknowns of long
ago, to a blear-eyed little nosed party, whose only comment is "Ugh", and females
of substance offer curious visitors sticks of doubtful looking toffy, wherewith to
wage war upon their digestions. There is no lack of that kind of amusement usual to
such gatherings. You can shy at cocoa nuts, ring the bell with a rifle shot, mount
an electric lighted roundabout or submit to a ha'porth of grey
"ice", just according to the state of your finances

TUESDAY
30th September

1972
We, the teenagers of Girton village, strongly resent the slur that has been cast on
us. Admittedly we use the bus shelter as a meeting place, but that is because there
is literally nowhere else to go. There are about 20 of us basically decent, normal,
healthy teenagers with the boisterousness of youth and it is not physically
possible to meet all at once in each others houses. So the only building which
protects us from the weather is
the bus shelter. We absolutely deny that it has an offensive smell and is strewn
with litter. In fact the bus shelter at Mayfield Road is in a far worse condition
and is not used by members of our age group. - letter signed by 23 Girton
youngsters

1947
The Chief Constable (B.N.Bebbington) told Cambridge Rotary Club that he would like
to see a scheme whereby traffic was banned - at least buses and heavy traffic - in
the centre of Cambridge. "In Petty Cury on
Saturdays there is insufficient room for traffic, let alone pedestrians. It would
be more satisfactory if
that central part of the town was for pedestrian traffic only. That is a sweeping
thing to say and will
not find favour in all quarters". Referring to criticism that the one-way traffic
scheme soon to be introduced in the centre of town was "the wrong way round" he
explained that it diverted from the town centre the large amount of traffic going
to the station from the Chesterton direction and would encourage lorry drivers
passing through Cambridge to take the route through the Backs. More car parks in
the centre of the town were obviously a need, and there were plans in existence to
provide them

1922
Discrepancies in the price of bread in the Ely district and in March were the
subject of a complaint
made at the meeting of the Isle Conciliation Committee. It was argued that if bread
could be sold at 8d. in March, the reduction from 9d to 8 1/2d in Ely last week was
not enough. Mr Purchase instanced farm workers whose consumption was 29 loaves per
week per household. He believed that suggestions that the
farmers would combine together and bake their own bread had an effect

1897
Holy Trinity church, Cambridge, was filled with a large congregation, the occasion
being the re-opening
service after the church had been closed for purposes of restoration. When the
cement was removed from the
buttresses, real solid stonework was found to be concealed underneath, and on
theses buttresses the date 1516 was discovered. An old consecration cross was also
found by the architect. This cross, he says, is very unique and it is intended that
it should be covered with glass in order to preserve it

WEDNESDAY
1st October
1972
A collection of Cambridge nostalgia went under the hammer as the fixtures and
fittings of the Old Dorothy
restaurant and ballroom were auctioned. "The Dot" as it was affectionately known to
Saturday night dancers
down the years was a mecca of weddings, parties, dinners and thousands of personal
memories. It was a child of the tea dance and potted palms of the 1920s and
survived the Second World War to outlive nearly all its contemporaries. It closed
its doors to the public in August and now its future is uncertain. Today it looked
drab and tattered with mirrors, lights and other fittings ripped from the walls.
About 150 attended the auction but many were only there to pay their last respects.

1947
New premises, a new name and new services for Cambridge's British restaurant were
marked by the attendance of the Mayor at an informal opening ceremony. The new
premises are in the old G.P.O. building at the corner of Petty Cury. The new name
is the Cambridge Borough restaurant, and the new services are a more varied lunch
menu instead of the old "flat rate". The cafeteria system of serving is being
introduced, by
which you slide a tray along choosing your dish and pay when you have completed
your selection. First to
eat in the new premises were the workmen employed on the job who were entertained
to lunch with a typical
menu of cream of vegetable soup, roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, baked and boiled
potatoes and cabbage, blackberry and apple tart and custard.

1922
Much interest was aroused in Cambridge and along the route in the second
reliability trial of motor cars
and motor cycles in connection with the well-known Cambridge motor and cycle firm
of Herbert Robinson.
The trial was not a speed test, indeed the competitors who most nearly adhered to a
uniform speed of 20 mph were those whose names featured on the prize list. All
speedometers were covered up so that competitors had to judge their speed. The
route of 63 miles was completed within five hours, inclusive of numerous stops for
checking and a lenghty interval for tea.

1897
Saturday seems to have been an very unfortuane day for the owers of vehicles in
Cambridge, several
accidents taking place on that day. In one, shortly after two-o'clock a bus was
proceeding along Maid's
Causeway, Cambridge, when it came into collision with a pony and trap belonging to
Mr W. Smoothy,
greengrocer, King-street. The splashboard, body, and off-wheel of the trap were
broken and the pole
belonging to the omnibus also received considerable damage. There were no persons
injured and no
obstruction was caused

THURSDAY
2nd October
1972
When the North wind doth blow the children know where to go - to the cloakroom to
dress
for school dinners. Mid-winter meals have often been taken in topcoats in this
village near Newmarket. The
trouble lies in the old reading room which stands 50 yards down the road and has
been used as a school
dining room for the past few years. When villagers built on a kitchen with
volunteer labour it meant
blocking up the two fireplaces, having one small electric fire. Mrs Maureen Ward
said "The school
classrooms are well heated and the children go straight out of a warm room and
freeze in the reading
room. They get such things as gravy and custard on their sleeves if they are
wearing their coats"

1947
A "brain" that will be capable of completing 1,000 questions a minute is in course
of construction in the University Mathematical Laboratory. Work on the "brain" has
been going on for about 12 months. It is carried out by a team of six who are lead
by Dr H.V. Wilkes, director of the laboratory, and wartime radar research "expert".
Officially the brain is known as "Esdac" (electronic delay storage automatic
calculator). At present one "memory unit" has been completed. It consists of 16
metal tubes full of mercury weighing
about 200 pounds. Another has yet to be assembled and when finally completed the
"brain" will consist of
these and eight racks containing between 1,000 and 1,500 valves. Questions will be
fed in on a punched
tape and the answers delivered by teleprinter.

1922
Attending to the subject of petrol pumps, the Mayor said he could not understand
why the Council should
object to the putting up of such an appliance, which would fill a car up in one
minute, instead of having
to run it into a garage and back it out again, taking up certainly five minutes.
The petrol pump today was
a thing everyone looked for if he motored. He did not know of another town of any
size that had not a
petrol pump, so it seemed a most extraordinary thing that an enlightened borough
like Cambridge still
refused to allow a pump to be put up on the footway. In a street like St Andrews-
street or Regent-street
there did not seem any reason why a pump should not be put up

1897
Between seven and eight o'clock last night a storm of exceptional severity broke
over Cambridge. The
lightning was very vivid and the claps of thunder remarkably loud, while the rain
came down with quite
tropical violence. Many householders were busily employed in keeping the flood
water out of their dwellings and business premises. The storm lasted for about two
hours. Gonville-place for more than ah hour presented the appearance of a river and
pools of water were to be seen upon Parker's Piece for a
considerable time

FRIDAY
3rd October
1972
John Nicholson is a tall, solemn, ranging character with a Biblical appearance.
Currently he runs two
shops in Cambridge. Neither of them makes a profit. Before that he published an
"alternative" newspaper "Cambridge Voice", a paper which ran to 16 issues. After a
skirmish with "The Shilling Paper" he felt that a
University element were against him. His two shops are the King Street Market and
Cockaygne, Portland
Place, New Square. It's an unusual shop selling a range of science fiction and
occult books, "underground" periodicals, American comic books and all sorts of
pamphlets

1947
A bus driver who allowed his sympathy to exceed his caution was fined a total of £6
when he appeared
before the Cambridge Petty sessions. PC Bert Patton was on patrol duty at 6.30 pm
when he saw the single
decker Premier Travel bus in Trumpington Street. He noticed it was a twenty seater
being used as an
express carriage. Besides those seated there were 20 adult passengers standing.
Several more were sitting
on the steps at the entrance, and on the right of the driver there was a passenger
sitting on the emergency door, the window of which was open. The body of this
passenger was protruding outside the bus for a distance of nine inches. The
constable allowed the defendant to drive the vehicle to Drummer Street so as not to
inconvenience the passengers. Here he pointed out that the vehicle was being used
as an express carriage and there should have been no people standing. To this the
driver replied "Well, you cannot very well leave them behind"

1922
Sir - Many Cambridge people will be surprised at the Mayor's surprise that petrol
pumps are not allowed n
Cambridge streets. Memories of past Cambridge "rags” and those of the future to
come, should have
convinced him of the danger of such an appliance. Many an "undergrad" would simply
love to tear it from
the pavement and cart it in triumph to his lodgings, and went he went "down" to
take it home and say,
"Look, mater, what I did". No, sir, undergraduates' pranks are band enough at
times, and no one desires
to see a flaming chariot of burning wood deposited near a petrol pump. Yours etc -
SAFETY FIRST

1897
A little girl, aged nine, a daughter of a labourer was killed by lightning while
sitting at tea in her
home at Great Paxton, near St Neots. Her little brother was also knocked down and
rendered unconscious, but is recovering. His body is marked with the complete
outline of a tree, the branches being shown distinctly. The lightning same through
the roof, making a hole in the ceiling. At Ely it is computed that the rainfall was
about 150 tons per acre; a sheep was killed at Stretham and Mr J. Yarrow of
Thetford, had a mare and foal killed

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
October 6th
1972
Modern-style living has caught up with Histon. A few years ago the parish council
could not find tenants
for their allotments. Now people are living in houses dubbed as "rabbit-hutches"
the council have more
applications than allotments. In the past about 18 allotments in Spring Close and
The Dole have given way to housing developments. Mr A.J. Gayle, who is Chairman of
Chesterton Rural Council told members that before the allotments were swallowed up
the parish council could not find tenants for them. He went on: "Now they are
building rabbbit hutches and they all want gardens"

1947
In the converted green and cream day nursery, and to the happy shouts of the little
ones playing in the spacious garden outside, the Harvey Goodwin House, Harvey
Goodwin Avenue, which has been adapted from a Home for boys to a nursery for babies
and toddlers in the care of the Church of England Children's Society (formerly the
"Waifs and Strays") was opened by Lady Whitby. It will accommodate 20 children who
remain there until adopted or boarded out. Many friends gathered in the day nursery
which has been ideally adapted for the purpose with its cheerful colour scheme, gay
chintz curtains at the big windows,
nursery pictures on the walls and evidence of its young occupants in the soft toys
scattered around.

1922
Sir - With reference to "Safety First's" letter on the inadvisability of installing
petrol pumps on the
kerbsides of Cambridge streets - has he ever seen a pump, and, if so, has he ever
tried to root it up? We
have seen with mixed feelings the result of several tired undergraduates leaning
against an apparently
massive lampost in the centre of the town, which immediately endeavoured to emulate
the Tower of Pisa,
but failed miserably and fell to the ground. But let a dozen or more of the
strongest of these super-men lean
against, or try to uproot a petrol pump and its impassivity would, I imagine,
resemble that of the
celebrated and disappointing Sphinx. Let their fiery chariots and "Paynim altars
smoke" all around the pumps and there would be yet another proof of their immunity
for risk of fire - "Sahon"

1897
Saffron Walden. Up-to-date photography. W. Frost Wilson, Gold Street, having
purchased the business for
many years carried on by Mr W. Hobbs is now prepared to execute photography in all
the latest styles. Cabinets, Carte de Visites, Midgets, Boudoir, Plantinotypes etc.
Instantaneous photographs a speciality. All the latest scientific instruments.
Wedding, football and other parties photographed by arrangement. Animals faithfully
photographed

TUESDAY
October 7th
1972
Since 1892 the University Typewriting Office has provided the link between
thousands of Cambridge
graduates and their doctorate degrees. In the 80 years hundreds of Cambridge women
have typed out millions of words on every discipline in the alphabet. Now, for the
first time, the business has a man at its helm. Founded by a Mrs Marion Marshall,
guided for 50 year by a Miss Minnie Pate, then by Miss Marjorie Sutherland and
finally by Miss Mary Noble, the business was sold in May this year to Mr Walter
Falles, a chartered secretary.

1947
A family who had been bombed out four times in London, yesterday evening lost their
home at Toft when it was gutted by fire. The cottage was one of three completely
destroyed at Brookside, Toft and was occupied by Mr Thomas White, his wife and
daughter. Most of the furniture was saved. In another cottage occupied by Mr Owen
Braysher practically everything was destroyed, although the animals at the rear of
the property were rescued. A German prisoner of war did great work in helping to
save furniture. Fire brigades from Cambridge and Whittlesford attended the fire and
two major pumps were used.

1922
Since the extension of the franchise to women, and largely because of this, there
have been started in the
villages of the country social centres for women which are called Women's
Institutes, for the purpose of
instructing women as to their new duties as active political citizens, and for
social intercourse generally. In order to stimulate the movement a meeting was
called in Newmarket. The speaker said women who found themselves face to face with
the responsibility of the vote sometimes realised how little they knew. One man she
knew was so enthusiastic about the institute that he actually volunteered to mind
the baby while his wife went to the Institute. And when he was told that while he
was minding one baby he might as well mind six he consented to do that - (applause)
– so that five other women could go with his wife.

1897
The Chairman of Chesterton Urban District Council stated that with reference to
Crawley's gut-scraping
and fat-rendering factory at the Junction, people complained severely of the
offensive and sickening smell and he had asked Dr Anningson to inspect the place.
The Inspector said that in addition to the business of gut-scraping, that of fat-
rendering was carried on. An open vat was treated by fire from below which allowed
all the vapour to escape into the open air. A quantity of disinfecting material had
been used, quite inadequate for the purpose in view. Poor people who lived in the
vicinity could not even partake of their food by reason of the smell

WEDNESDAY
October 8th
1972
The bulldozers and demolition gangs may have ruined the character of Petty Cury and
destroyed Falcon Yard forever, but for those who appreciate the past two crumbs of
comfort : Fisher House was saved. Reprieve too for Ramsey and Muspratt, the
photographers in Post Office Terrace, where silver bitch trees have sprouted in the
old courtyard behind the studio. There have been photographers in Post Office
Terrace since the 1860s. Lettice Ramsey and Helen Muspratt took over from Palmer
Clark in 1933. "We took over the whole thing, lock, stock and barrel, with about
50,000 old negatives. We have been here ever since", said Mrs Ramsey, competing
with the noise of a pneumatic drill. Now she and her women assistants battle
through the noise and dust every day to maintain a "business as normal" service

1947
There have, so far, been six cases of infant paralysis in the Borough of Cambridge.
One has been transferred from the Infectious Diseases Hospital to White Lodge,
Newmarket. It is expected that three of the six
patients will recover without any appreciable degrees of paralysis. One is under
five years of age, three are
between five and 10 and two are over 15. Referring to a decision that infantile
paralysis cases should be
accepted from Saffron Walden the Chairman of the Public Health Committee said it
was a very wise decision and pointed out that the Cambridge Infectious Diseases
Hospital had a special facility in the form of an iron lung

1922
Trouble between the Rector of Hardwick and the Parish Council over the Glebe
allotments led to some rather lively scenes in the village when a parish meeting
was held to discuss the question. The allotments are held on a yearly tenancy by
the Parish Council who sub-let them to the allotment holders. The Rector notified
the holders that he intended to manage them himself. The original allotments, which
have been in use for 25 or 30 years occupied an area of 4,955 acres and a further
3,929 were taken over by the Parish Council

1897
The ancestors of the present generation have made ample provision for decent and
orderly worship in Ashley; a valuable tract of land has been set aside to provide a
decent stipend for a minister, and an excellent church provided within this
century. What does one see now? Badly cultivated land, a deserted and desecrated
building, its furniture wilfully damaged, its people driven to neighbouring
churches, and their disgusted neighbours told that the law of England provides no
efficient remedy. The scandalous state of affairs has been a grief and a sorrow to
every true lover of the grand old national Church and many Nonconformists are
equally sorry to see such a terrible state of things existing

THURSDAY
October 9th
1972
Britain's first purpose-built Interdenominational Church Centre was opened at Bar
Hill by the Dean of
Ely, when 200 people crammed into the new hall to hear the special service of
dedication. The people of Bar
Hill were never too choosey about where they said their prayers. Just as long as
they had a roof, any building
was good enough. During the past five years there have been services in private
houses, in a contractor's hut
on a muddy building site and in the half-finished shopping arcade. But whether it
was Holy Communion by
the supermarket or Evensong in the living room there was always the hope that one
day Bar Hill would have
its own church.

1947
A proposal to improve Drummer Street bus station was discussed at Cambridge Town
Council. Ald Briggs said "Drummer Street is already overcrowded and traffic is
going to increase in the coming years". The Committee had discussed a suggestion
that a portion of Butt Green should be used as a bus station and had previously
considered the use of New Square as a bus station. Coun Cutting considered that the
proposal was too urgent to wait, "If you saw last year the thousands standing out
in the cold in Drummer Street you would not have thought it was any credit to the
town"

1922
Full Term commences next week and with it the activities of the new academical
year. The open
question now is as to the probable number of Freshmen and residents. Most of the
Service students, who
created the congestion which existed in the University from the Lent Term of 1912,
went down last June, and left plenty of elbow room. This year we have got back to
the public school boy, the pre-war type of Freshman. Girton and Newnham and the
Women's Training College have not an empty room

1897
There has been an epidemic of missing solicitors in Cambridge during the last
decade. Now many people in
the pretty village of Histon, wherein the Manor Hall, the missing squire's
residence, is situate, regard it
as a sort of evil dream and they would not be surprised to see him driving up the
street as usual. The Squire
was last seen driving towards Cambridge on the Monday morning about 10 o'clock.
Nothing peculiar in his
demeanour was noticed by his neighbours or his own acquaintances; he has of late
continued the usual,
steady, business-like habits. He was held in high esteem, was Under Sheriff &
Deputy Lieutenant of the
County and generally regarded as one of the soundest men in the county. Tales are
hazarded of enormous sums entrusted to the missing man by companies, colleges and
private persons. The only authentic fact is a petition on behalf of a creditor for
£4,484.

FRIDAY
October 10th
An 1875 bicycle made a rare appearance on the streets of Cambridge to promote
Cambridge City Library's
exhibition "Tourism in Cambridge" at the Small Hall of the Guildhall. Its owner, Mr
J.D. Howes took it from his Regent Street shop and gave it a spin along the road
before it went to the Guildhall. The third
exhibition of its type to be staged by the library it puts Cambridge into its
proper setting for both
Fenland, county and city are covered by the various displays.

1947
Ald Dr Alex Wood, chairman of the Cambridge Housing Committee said that 500 houses
had been completed, of which 206 were permanent. The number of houses completed by
private contract was 68. The greatest difficulty was in regard to labour. On one
site he discovered but one bricklayer at work. He commented "We are attaching no
blame to the contractors; I met two of them and found both almost broken-hearted
about the difficulties with which they had to contend, and the shortages they were
up against. The slow rate of building means that people have got to keep on living
in emergency accommodation and other families which ought to be moved into
emergency accommodation are, therefore, kept waiting. They were still completely
unable to deal with a number of families living separated in almost impossible
conditions of
overcrowding - sometimes 11 people in three bedrooms - and in property which ought
not to be inhabited"

1922
Cambridge streets during Thursday evening were under the protection of the special
constables, who regulated traffic and generally acquitted themselves right well.
The "regulars" however were not far away. They were in the Guildhall enjoying the
hospitality of the Mayor who was anxious to show his appreciation of their work
during his year of office. The evening was passed in music and song and during the
interval there were some interesting presentations to four constables who have just
retired after 25 years service. P.C.s A.H. Ridgewell and John Waylett received a
gold watch each, P.C. John Unwin a marble clock and P.C. G.H. Wright a silver tea
service

1897
There was a large attendance of the public when the annual inspection of the
Cambridge Fire Brigade took
place. The proceedings commenced with an inspection of the fire appliances, after
which a drill for the
raising of insensible men and carrying them to a supposed place of safety was gone
through. The escape
drill, carrying men down the escapes, bringing men off with ropes, hand-pump and
bucket drill and jumping
sheet drill was also gone through. The Mayor said that they would shortly be having
the benefits of some more jumping sheets, which would be distributed over various
parts of the town. No doubt those sheets would be a great protection to outlying
districts for low houses.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
13th October
1972
By ceasing to have University councillors on Cambridge city council when local
government is reorganised,
Cambridge would be losing the benefit of wise men's counsel, the Deputy Mayor, Mrs
Jean Barker said last
night. "I personally regret the passing of the university councillors elected by
the university, although I know it is considered undemocratic, but we had some
outstanding brains working for us". In her year as Mayor, Mrs Barker attended 290
social and other functions, 76 in company with her husband, Mr Alan Barker,
headmaster of The Leys School

1947
There will be a warm welcome for "Varsity Handbook", the Undergraduate's Guide to
Cambridge, produced and published by "Varsity". This is a brand new publication,
printed on good paper and contains a mass of information of interest and value to
University men. Much of the material has never been collected before. For the first
time, for instance, a full detailed list of the 180 odd University societies is
published. And then "One Man's Opinion" contains some frank advice - possibly a
little too frank - for the Freshman on a variety of matters
1922
By the erection of a handsome stone memorial cross to perpetuate the memory of
those belonging to the parish who fell in the Great War, Mepal has paid a worthy
tribute. From this small village with a population of less than 100, twelve men
gave their lives, and one woman. On no other roll in the Ely district has a
woman's name appeared. Miss Nellie Waters was stationed at the army canteen at
Thetford, Norfolk, and while there contracted pneumonia from which she died. Her
sister served in canteens abroad for some considerable time and was demobilised at
the end of the war

1897
Before the purchase of the Ouse navigation by Mr Simpson the locks above St Ives
were in a bad state of
repair, through leakage of gates etc. Barges going up the river to St Ives were
obliged to make a "pen" (or
level water at the locks) by means of planks they carried with them for the
purpose. These planks fitted
into grooves in the brickwork in the sides of the locks and answered the purpose of
"gates" for the lower end
of the lock. Then the upper gate would be opened and the water levelled to the
planks. When this was done
the barge was taken out of the lock, the gates closed and the planks taken out.
This, of course, was a slow
process, through the leakage between the planks but still it was possible to get
through. Now Mr Simpson
refuses to allow the lock at St Ives to be used in the manner for which it was
constructed, and has closed the
locals above St Ives altogether

TUESDAY
14th October
1972
Two councillors resigned today as accusations mounted over a £300,000 gift offered
for a swimming pool at
Newmarket, which has now been withdrawn by millionaire racehorse owner Mr David
Robinson. One of the terms laid down by Mr Robinson was that the pool must be built
on the Severals at Newmarket and that the council must be unanimous in accepting
his offer and conditions. At Monday night's meeting councillors could not agree on
where the pool should be sited. Mr Robinson was accused of trying to dictate to the
council. Mr Robinson withdrew his offer in a letter.

1947
Sir - We secretaries, typists and general office workers of this town have a
grievance. Isn't it time something was done about the congestion existing in the
Cafeterias and Quick Service Restaurants at all the rush hour times, caused by the
invasion of undergraduates. Surely the facilities at the various colleges provide
them with a mid-day meal, and if this should not prove sufficient, why must they
patronise all the catering establishments at the critical time when we, the working
population, adjourn for lunch? Owing to the acute food shortage, after spending the
first 20 minutes of our brief lunch hour queueing, we arrive at the service counter
to find all the most nourishing dishes gone and have to satisfy ourselves with the
inevitable sausages and other equally indifferent fare. (This can become extremely
monotonous every day). One of many "Hungry Typists", Yours etc Mavis Bennett, Gt
Shelford

1922
Sir, - There are still some restaurants in Cambridge which charge 3d or 4d for a
helping of potatoes. This
would appear to be profiteering as the proprietors probably do not pay more than
three halfpence a lb. for
what they buy. Before the war potatoes were thrown in with the meat, and during the
war 4d was charged, as
they were very difficult to get and expensive to buy. Twopence is the outside that
should be charged at the
present time for a helping and I advise customers to refuse to pay more" - letter
from C. Cochrane

1897
We understand that a design for the front portion of the Cambridge Guildhall will
be laid before the Council. For years we have joined in the general chorus of
condemnation of the present monstrosity which does duty
as a front to the municipal building. It is an abomination and ought to be removed
as speedily as possible. The question is whether or not the present is the proper
time for undertaking the work. We are informed that the contemplated new front will
cost £38,000! Let the ratepayers remember that we have not yet done with out
gigantic, our costly, and in some respects our eminently unsatisfactory sewerage
scheme – Editorial

WEDNESDAY
15th October
1972
A charge that they are workshy has been levelled against the unemployed of
Cambridge by a shop stewards committee representing the largest engineering
business in the city, Marshall of Cambridge. The senior union men are angry at the
inability of their firm to find sufficient labour to maintain an important long-
term Government contract. They cannot understand why with 897 registered unemployed
in Cambridge it is proving impossible for Marshalls and other firms in the area to
fill their labour needs. They ask "Do the men rally want work? Or do they have
sidelines which make it unnecessary for them to take up jobs paying up to £30 a
week?"

1947
It was "L'Entente Cordiale" night when the redecorated New Theatre, Cambridge,
after an almost ten-year
closure, re-opened yesterday as a cinema for the showing of Continental films. The
Cross of Lorraine hung side-by- side with the Union Jack outside the cinema in
honour of the visit of Francoise Rosay, the famous French film star who performed
the opening ceremony. The Mayor (Coun. Doggett) wished the venture every success
and expressed the hope that successful films may be followed by stage plays. "We
have one theatre in this town but in my opinion there is plenty of room for a
second theatre, particularly one with a larger stage". Capt A.C. Taylor, Managing
Director of the "Cambridge Daily News" echoed the hope that some theatrical shows
would be staged.

1922
Cambridge Corn Exchange was crowded last evening on the occasion of a boxing
tournament. In all the events there was some capital fighting. The audience also
had the privilege of witnessing an excellent exhibition of Ju Jitsu and Katsu, in
which the participants were Harry Hunter of Broadstairs, England's greatest
exponent of Ju Jitsu, and Mr W. Saddington, the local expert in the art. Various
throws and locks were shown but the one which interested the audience was that of
throwing and rendering an opponent unconscious in a few seconds, and instantly
reviving him by Katsu, the Japanese method of restoration

1897
St Ives Michaelmas Fair was visited by a great number of people. They came in by
crowds from the railway station, in many a slap-up conveyance and every other shade
of vehicle. Monday is looked upon as the business day of the fair. The streets near
the Market - Cromwell-place area were utilised to stand the horses for sale and the
adjacent side streets were used as exercise yards in which to show the paces of the
animals amid much cracking of whips, shouting, and whistling, and the display of
pink chintz flags used at the end of a stick to frighten the animals. A few were
very good horses, but most of them were not so good - to put it mildly

THURSDAY
16th October
1972

Comberton's village pond has dried up. And the famous group of wild mallard which
live there have flown away. The pond has dried entirely only for a week in the
driest of summers before. This time it has been dry for three months. The chairman
of the Parish Council, Mr William Watts, suggests that trench-digging around the
village to install main drainage, has stopped up the flow of surface water into the
pond. He said "We are worried about the situation but we'll wait until there has
been a real good fall of rain to see what happens before we actually do anything
about the lack of water. If the water does not run into the pond then, we might
have to consider sinking a well or something. The village pond is a real amenity"

1947
The new "temple" of the fifth art was opened by the Mayor last night. The art is
that of cinema; the "temple" the former Cosmopolitan in Market Passage, re-
decorated and renamed the Arts Cinema. He said "I feel the cinema will prove an
added amenity to Cambridge". The success of the cinema would depend to a very great
extent on a wise selection of films and efficient management. Sound and projection
have been improved since the cinema was the Cosmopolitan though teething troubles
prevented both being experienced that their
best. The seating - with seats from the Festival Theatre - is now sloped

16 Oct 1922
Undergraduates' "little ways" always will possess a great attraction for our London
contemporaries. Yesterday's "Westminster Gazette" contained the following: - "The
Cambridge University botanic garden
has received a present of ducks from Emmanuel College wherewith to restock the
lake. The Emmanuel ducks have for some time had a reputation for inebriety. They
inhabited an old-world garden, two sides of which are overlooked by the students'
rooms, and it has been a favourite sport of some undergraduates to feed the ducks
from their windows with morsels of cake or bread soaked in liquor. By their removal
the ducks will now be from from this temptation"

1897
Sir - The poisonous exhalations from the ventilating gratings in the Cambridge
streets continue as bad as
ever. The authorities apparently neglect to make any effort to mitigate the
intolerable nuisance, and seem to
court an epidemic of diptheria and typhoid. Having occasion myself to pass along
Castle-street and the
Huntingdon-road I can testify to the particularly offensive conditions. Nausea,
headache, sore throat, and
a general low state of health are some of the minor results of the pestilential
state of the town. The constant use of disinfectant in the streets might do
something to diminish the dangers with which we are threatened - a Resident M.A.

FRIDAY
17th October

1972
At the Pagoda Chinese restaurant in Regent Street Cambridge there are over 100
items listed on the menu.
The easy way out might have been to opt for Special Meal (£2.55 for two persons)
but that sounds too much like totalitarianism so we sifted out portions of Sweet
and Sour Pork (large 48p, small 42p), Chicken on bean sprouts (48p, 40p) and Sliced
Beef, green pepper and Black Bean Sauce (55p). Fried rice (14p) went almost without
saying. Cheefoo White Wine, bottled in the People's Republic was not worth the
£2.15 it cost per bottle. After all this only a sense of duty led us to share a
dish of lychees (25p). The meal cost us £6.57
for two, but if you did not fall for the "wine of the country" bit, it would be
very good value

1947
Cambridge Guildhall was transformed into a hairdressing salon for the first hair
styling competition ever held in Cambridge. There were 22 entrants in the contest,
two only were men. There were several original styles but the general line of
dressing was upswept, following the line of the hair, and close fitting, with waves
and curls. Many of the competitors favoured swathed backs with waves moving across
the head and curls haloing it. Practially every shade of hair was represented, from
platinum to silver, but reddish shades predominated. The winning competitor (Muriel
Ham) designed an original creation, the finished effect of which looked rather like
a Geisha girl. The hair was built high on the crown in an asymmetric yet balanced
line and the nape hair taken in with swathed cuts

1922
The winter season of the Saturday Popular Concerts had a splendid send-off at the
Cambridge Guildhall. People began to queue up over an hour before the doors were to
be opened and the building was packed before the performance commenced; many people
thought themselves lucky to be able to stand at the door. Outside crowds of
unfortunate latecomers were turned away. The artistes gave of their best and the
audience's demand for encores was almost unappeasable

1897
In celebration of the successful completion of the Haverhill Industrial Co-
operative Society's new buildings in High Street, a dinner was given at the Town
Hall. The committee had decided that no one outside the
town of Haverhill should tender for the work. Mr Mason, the contractor had done the
work splendidly and no building has ever been finished off in such a good
condition. Mr Green, the stone carver, said the felt he
must do his very best, as they would have the eye of everyone in the town upon
them. Mr Gurteen recollected that where they now saw all these new buildings there
were formerly merely low thatched cottages

LOOKING BACK by Mike Petty

MONDAY
20th October
1972
New laws which have given the Cambridge planners control over the future of old,
but not historically important buildings may preserve much of the city's side-
streets and stop redevelopment in odd corners and byways The planners could use
their powers for the first time when they consider a request from a London
development company to demolish the Red Cow public house on the corner of Corn
Exchange Street and replace it with a four storey office and shop block. The county
council are thinking of preserving the adjoining Guildhall Chambers building which
overlooks the Lion Yard redevelopment

1947
History was made in Cambridge Guildhall yesterday afternoon. The occasion was the
debut in Cambridge of
the recently formed Eastern Region Symphony Orchestra, a new combination of
Mozartian proportions, created to fill the gap caused by the difficulty of getting
already-established orchestras away from their
accustomed venues for a whole series of concerts

1922
The proposed new bathing places provided a lively debate at Cambridge Town Centre.
Plan A was for a bath on the far side of Sturbridge Common, not far from the
railway. Plan B was for a bath on Jesus Green parallel to the river and a little
above Victoria Bridge. It would be supplied by water taken from the Cam through
pipes from above Jesus weir. The Bullen's Grove site on Sturbridge Common was less
overlooked but the great point in favour of Jesus Green was that it was far more
accessible and it was finally agreed to approve it

1897
Sir - Before the County Council Act came into force the man that had to drive 14
miles into the country twice a week had a very difficult and dangerous task to
face, as, without one exception, all the roads in the county were more or less bad
and calculated to wear up horse and cart in a very short time. Now that state of
things has entirely changed. There is no such thing as a bad road to be found in
the county, and in the borough there is scarcely a bit of road that is fit to drive
over with a load of any sort - "Redivivus"

TUESDAY
21st October
1972
Fears of another prolonged power dispute this winter have led to panic buying of
every type of candle in
towns throughout Mid-Anglia. Stores report that candle stocks are low or run out
and emergency heating and
lighting lines are rapidly dwindling. The rush for stock started last week, and now
that the electricity power
workers have given October 27 as Disruption Day demand for emergency heating and
lighting equipment are so great that stores are having difficulty in coping. The
manager of Hatters Hardware in Milton Road said his lamp trade had gone up by 60
per cent this week. But he was sorry for the shoppers. "There may not be a strike.
If not, the £3 or £4 they spend in here seems rather an expensive insurance policy"

1947
Cambridge people are likely to be without their washing if a strike threatened at
Newmarket today materialises, Strike pickets took up positions outside the Heath
Laundry, Newmarket, at lunch-time, following a walk-out by seven employees and the
dismissal of an engineer. The laundry, one ofthe largest in the district - about
100 are employed at Newmarket - has offices in Cambridge, and is carried on under
the name of Hopkinson Bros

1922
An open meeting ot the Cambridge Wireless Society was held to hear a wireless
concert from the transmitting station of Mr H.W. Taylor of Camden House. Owing to
some unknown cause the receiving set would not function and steps were promptly
taken to acquire two further sets of reputed make, and again these failed to act.
At about 9p.m. however Mr Taylor's voice was heard on the loud speaker, and for
about half-an-hour gramophone selections were received, but the reception was by no
means the success it should have been. The committee wish to apologise to all those
who so patiently awaited the reception of the concert and, unfortunately had to
leave without hearing anything

1897
Artificial Teeth. Important Notice - great success. Mr F.W. Bradley begs to inform
the inhabitants of Cambridge that owing to the unparalleled success which has
attended the new and painless system of adapting artificial teeth without plates he
now finds it necessary to visit Cambridge twice a week. A complete set of teeth
from £1.1s.; single tooth from 2s.6d

WEDNESDAY
22nd Oct
1972
The tiny Cambridgeshire village of Great Wilbraham has become so popular with
property developers, that
villagers have decided to draw up their own village plan in an effort to keep
control of the threatened invasion. Since the word has got out that the village
(population 323) will soon be on complete main drainage, planning applications by
the dozen have been lodged at Shire Hall. Some property developers have asked to
build as many as 24 houses in the village at a time. The chairman of the Parish
Council said "There is no doubt that our drainage and sewerage scheme has made our
village more attractive to developers

1947
Fen Drayton's 97-years-old oldest inhabitant and two Darby-and Joan old-age
pensioners were among the 98
victims of last Spring's flooding in the village who found themselves the
possessors of several months' extra
rations of butter and lard, as well as tins of sausage meat and dried milk. The
food was the gift of the
Mombassa Thank Offering to Britain Fund, whose local daily paper "The Mombassa
Times" is edited by a former member of the "Cambridge Daily News" staff, Mr Ronald
Roper. Similar distributions have been made at Willingham, Swavesey, Over and other
places in the affected area

1922
The proposal to make better use of Christ's Pieces, Cambridge, for outdoor
entertainments is by no means a
new thing. It first had its origin 30 years ago when the amateur gardening
societies were in their prime and the large attendances at their shows was making
it difficult to obtain the use of college grounds. Later when the band concerts
began to grow in popularity the erection of seats round the band stand was proposed

1897
The Rev R.W. Close called attention to the increase of vagrancy and the number of
vagrant children who had gone through the three Poor Law Unions in Huntingdonshire.
The children in the Workhouses were well kept and well brought up, but the
condition of the vagrant children when brought into the Workhouse was very bad.
Their health suffered, their clothes were often wet, and they were dirty. The
meeting at St Ives proposed that Unions should have the power to take such children
away from the control of their parents, provided that magistrates could annul the
resolution on the application of the parents after a hearing

THURSDAY
23rd October
1972
Cambridge University are finally to come to terms with decimalisation and, after
next year, undergraduates who break the rules will no longer be liable to a fine of
six shillings and eight pence. Instead they will have to pay the Proctors a
sparking new 32 pence. When the British Government decided on decimalisation,
Cambridge University decided to wait until the 1973 edition of their rule book was
published before completing their changeover. Their current accounts were converted
at the same time as the rest of the country.

1947
An assurance that there would be an improvement next year in the distribution of
ration books was given at a meeting of the Cambridgeshire Federation of Women's
Institutes. One member said their village was one of several small ones within
varying distances of Bourn and at least six sent to Bourn to collect their ration
books. "Imagine what happens", she said, "when the inhabitants of all these
villages advance on the centre in the two days allowed". She quoted an instance of
one mother, leaving a young baby in the house, queuing from 10 o'clock till 4.30 in
the afternoon and then having to travel three miles home

1922
Inspector Arnold of the N.S.P.C.C. said he had visited a house in Cambridge. It was
in a state of great disorder, comfortless and dirty. There were a number of empty
beer bottles in the mother's bedroom. In the scullery there were quantities of
decomposed food, and in the pantry a heap of very filthy female underclothing. The
children were thin, pale and miserable looking and suffering from lack of sleep.
The mother had been removed to hospital in an insane condition as a result of drink

1897
Sir - Cannot something be done to stop this frightful nuisance of organ-grinding. I
have rooms in Trinity
Street and as I write the organ has been "going on" for nearly an hour. The
"Washington Post" is a fine march and "Come back to Erin" a delightful melody, but
not when repeated eight or ten times over. The routine of coaching work is quite
monotonous without further annoyance at the hands (and handles) of the lazy riff-
raff of Italian Whitechapel - M.A.

FRIDAY
24th October

1972
Although the credit card is obviously here to stay, the euphoria surrounding this
week's launch of "Access"
does not appear to be shared generally by traders and the public. Local traders
objection is simple and
forthright; "It is costing us money to provide credit" In the city centre firms
like Heffers, Joshua Taylor and
Robert Sayles are not members of the scheme. Eaden Lilley's have joined and on the
first day the firm took
£174 from 12 customers using the card

1947
Nearly 2,000 old or needy Cambridge people yesterday received gifts of foodstuffs
sent from the people of
Victoria, Australia. The gifts were many and varied, consisting of Christmas
puddings, preserves, canned
fruit, dripping, meat products, dried milk, soups, dried fruit, vegetables, cheese
and soap. The Agent-General of Victoria said when they discovered we were short of
food housewives throughout Australia had queued up to give it to be sent to the
people over here
1922
The motorist has never been regarded very kindly by the general public. Those who
do not envy him his means of locomotion regard him as a sort of danger and
annoyance. While they resent the clouds of dust, the smell of petrol, and the speed
with which the motorist flashes by, they recognise that motoring is an evil to
which they may, in some prosperous future, themselves be attracted. The speaker
remarked on the continual
procession of cars passing through Ely on Sunday between seven and eight a.m. en
route from that haven of rest - Hunstanton. They usually returned from it more
tired than if they had spent the day quietly in their own home

1897
Sir, - On Wednesday morning my attention was called to the state of the River Cam
near Baitsbite Sluice. The water was covered with an oily matter and the stench
arising therefrom was beastly. The whole atmosphere was apparently impregnated with
some vapour. The havoc amongst the fish was appalling. Thousands upon thousands - I
might say tons - of pike, eels, roach and dace were dead and dying, struggling to
liberate themselves from their putrid, poisonous liquid. I never witness such a
lamentable sight before - Thomas Banyard

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
27th October
1972
On wash days Mrs Marlene Bassett walks up and down her garden about 50 times a day
emptying buckets of water. The only tap in the house is a cold one which runs into
a sink. The sink has no drain - the slops from it have to be collected in a bucket
and taken to the end of the garden. She lives in a row of four three-bedroomed
houses which have no hot water, no bathrooms, no drains and outside the kitchen
door is
the lavatory, a metal bucket under a wooden seat. They are at Wenden Lofts and the
owners of the houses are Saffron Walden Rural Council. The Clerk of the rural
council said: "These were some of the first of the
council houses ever built and they were very good council houses, but they want
modernising. As villages
get sewered so we modernise houses and put them on the sewer"

1947
A notable honour in the world of fencing was won by a Cambridge girl when Miss
Caroline Drew, aged 16, won the Schoolgirls' Foil Challenge Cup Competition held at
the London Fencing Club - and brought the cup to Cambridge for the first time.
Caroline is a pupil of the Cambridgeshire High School for Girls and a member of the
Cambridge Ladies Fencing Club which was founded some 20 years ago has a membership
of about 40, comprising girls and women of both University and town

1922
Sunday observance and the question of allowing games in public parks on Sundays
made an extremely interesting subject for discussion at Ely Ruridecanal Conference.
Rev S. Addleshaw deplored the passing of the old- fashioned Sunday - spent in
worshipping and quiet rest - and condemned the modern Sunday with its week-ends and
motor cars

1897
At the Old Bailey, Theophilius Turner, describe as a surgeon, who in the spring
resided at Stapleford Grove
as Dr Harris and did business with several Cambridge tradesmen, and Ella Macdonald,
stated to be well
connected, were indicted for conspiracy. The female prisoner at once pleaded guilty
but the male prisoner
waited until the case had been opened and evidence called before admitting his
guilt

TUESDAY
28th October
1972
Addenbrooke's Hospital will have to use many self-employed agency nurses to cope
with the extra beds in
Stage II of the new site. The hospital could need 100 extra nurses. Miss Mary
Bonner, the chief nursing officer said; "Our total complement is somewhere between
800 and 900 nurses in the hospital group - but we will need all those for
Addenbrooke's alone in 1973. With 841 beds, eight suites of theatres, the new
accident admissions units and the out-patients department we will still need
between 200 and 300 more nurses. An agency nurse can expect to earn around £25 for
a 30-hour week, a little more than the hospital-employed nurse

1947
Nine short months after he decided to enter the competitive field of dress
designing Ron Hardwick and his wife Jean, a former London and Paris trained
designer, are supplying some of the leading fashion houses throughout the U.K. with
their distinctive creations. It was in February that the Hardwicks trading under
the name of "Elizabeth Nels" introduced an entirely new industry into the racing
town of Nemarket. Today, after establishing themselves securely on the home market,
the Hardwicks are able to embark on their first "for export only" drive

1922
In the small Cambridgeshire village in which I live there has often been a shortage
of water in the summer,
and on some occasions the only drinking supply has failed altogether for a short
time. At some times of the
year the pond water is not fit to drink. Last summer the position was very serious.
Nearly all the ponds and
streams were dry and the drinking supply failed for several weeks. The village
people had to depend on the
few showers they caught in their tubs and on the dregs of the pond

1897
The Master of Emmanuel, in an interview concerning University finances says: "Our
pecuniary difficulties
are undoubtedly due to the large expenditure incurred upon the medical and
scientific schools. Nevertheless it is no use starving these departments, and some
of them - for example the Botany School, which is wretchedly housed - call for a
more generous provision. Several new sites for building extension have recently
been acquired but the money to erect the buildings is, however, not forthcoming"

WEDNESDAY
29th October
1972
From today letters posted to addresses at Ely, Haverhill, Newmarket and Saffron
Walden should bear
postmarks. And the Post Office hope people in these areas will show a better
example than Cambridge
residents. For after four years only 30 per cent of the letters posted in Cambridge
are postmarked. A Swedish
postmaster who recently visited Cambridge said "We have no problems with postmarks
in our country. Ninety per cent of the people responded immediately to the system".
Asked how they achieved that amazing success rate he replied "We don't deliver the
letters to the addresses that are not postcoded"

1947
The Principal of the Cambridge Training College for Teachers maintained that what
was needed above all else was some kind of stability for the young people, who had
not had the pre-war background of the older generation, and were trying to find
themselves in a difficult world. "Bed time has been an immense problem; many
mothers have allowed girls of 12 upwards to stay up and keep them company. The
result was there were now so many young people - possibly at the Universitiies -
who had simply not had enough sleep for the length of their life". Youth clubs were
affecting the older girls who went in for dancing that kept them out late. The
wireless, too, was a disturbing influence during homework

1922
The Clerk of the weather marked his sense of the importance of the occasion by
hustling up a choice
consignment of nasty weather of the celebrated Cambridge polling day brand. In
Petersfield ward cars inscribed "Vote for Robinson" and "Vote for Freyer" were much
in evidence, but in the main seemed to be providing joy rides for the younger
element of the district – possibly to keep them amused while mother voted

1897
A babel of sound greets you as you enter; some four hundred members of the canine
tribe lift their voices in
chorus. From end to end the Corn Exchange is filled with benches tenanted by dogs
of every breed, size and colour - a sight to gladden the hearts of the Cambridge
Canine Society committee at its first show which, if excelled in future years, will
require a larger hall

THURSDAY
30th October
1972
Twenty-five thousand second class letters are being deliberately held up every
night at the Post office's
mechanised sorting centre in Mill Road, Cambridge. The letters are sorted into
bundles by the 2pm to 10pm shift ready for loading on to trains from Cambridge. But
they do not leave the centre until the next morning after the rest of the second
class post has been sorted. Assistant Post-master for Cambridge, Mr Reginald
Starkey said "It is a second class standard of service. They have paid only 21/2
pence" Ironically it is only the second class post which goes through the £500,000
worth of equipment installed at the Mill Road office five months ago.

1947
Managers, employees and customers all met on the same side of the counter when
Lloyds Bank Ltd, Cambridge, held their first social function since the end of the
war. It took place at the Dorothy Cafe and consisted of a dinner and ball which
included a variety of dances, both old and new, to suit all ages. Two rooms, the
lower dining room and the Oak Room were used for the dinner and the guests then
returned to the ballroom where the resident band had already started on the lengthy
programme of dances. These included such things as the palais glide, conga and
hokey-cokey in which everyone joined.

1922
Not for many years has such interest been shown in a local election as was
manifested at the declaration of
the poll last night. Outside the Cambridge Guildhall there was a large crowd, at
one time approaching a
thousand. The Conservative supporters were in great form, some shouted and cheered,
whilst some young members of the University created a "certain liveliness". The
Chief Constable however was well prepared for all emergencies and the good humour
and tact of the policemen soon put things in order

1897
At the meeting of Cambridgeshire County Council a letter from Longstanton Parish
Council asking for permission to erect a fire-engine house on waste ground aside of
the highway, near the Black Bull Inn, was considered. An application from Burwell
Parish Council for permission to borrow money for a recreation ground was read. The
Council had now received five requests to lend money to Parish Councils for
providing burial grounds.

FRIDAY
31st October
1972
Barwell Engineering, the £1 million-a year specialist rubber processing equipment
firm have launched a new re-treating system which literally lays new tread on to
old tyres. The process known as "pressuretread" is a
development from the Swavesey firm's Queen's Award- winning precision performing
equipment. Launched in August the new retreading system has taken 18 months to
develop and already the first plant has been sold to the United States. Already the
firm have had enquiries from Japan, most European countries, and New Zealand. The
complete plant, including the autoclave curing oven and a milling machine, costs
around £30,000

1947
The introduction of the Town and Country Planning Bill, 1947 was described as "a
great step forward" at the
annual meeting of the Cambridge Preservation Society. Elliot FitzGibbon of the
Ministry of Town and Country Planning said that local people are never to be
trusted to preserve their own natural and architectural
treasures. They are too often quite unconscious of their value and any thief may
take them away, or any vandal destroy them while their owners sleep, drugged with
the politics of the parish pump.

1922
The performance of the musical comedy "My Nieces" at the New Theatre was delayed
for ten minutes as the result of the unsportsmanlike behaviour of a number of
undergraduates in the stalls. During one scene one of the young men threw a jumping
cracker on the stage. The members of the company were startled and cries of
indignation arose from all parts of the house. The manager had the curtain lowered
and the stage cleared.
The Proctor and "bulldogs" appeared on the scene, being received with the customary
cheers. After a number of names had been taken a large party of undergraduates left
the Theatre, their exit greeted with applause. Afterwards attendants found a number
of crackers in the Theatre

1897
Sir - There is a piece of land "cleared" just lately, where stood some poor-houses.
This "Tom Tidler's Ground" is at the entrance to Coldham-lane and here might be a
placed some public baths which are so much wanted in this very congested district
of Cambridge. The conditions or health would thereby be beneficial - "Nathan"
LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
3rd November
1972
With plans nearly complete for the 152-bedroom Garden House Hotel, due to rise on
the site of its burnt-out
namesake in the middle of Cambridge, the hotel's neighbours and other people are
claiming that the building
will be too big, and might create a traffic nightmare. They fear the narrow streets
round Granta Place will be
choked by a heavier flow of vehicles and some are worried that the only answer will
be a new service road across Coe Fen. Before the fire in April which destroyed the
old 76-bedroomed Garden House, an extension with 48 new rooms was already under
construction. Work carried on while the ruins of the old building were demolished.
The site is now being prepared to take the new main section ringing the total
number of bedrooms up to 152

1947
Ald A.E. Stubbs, M.P., made observations on agricultural wages; he said "We have
been carrying on with prisoners of war, displaced persons and any scratch labour we
can get. It is of enormous importance we should have full production. We must have
the manpower to carry it through. I think it safe to say that in the next year the
German prisoners of war will have gone. Poles will be going, and it will leave the
agricultural industry 250,000 men short on the land. The fact that the industry was
highly mechanised would make up for some of the loss of manpower, but would not
close the gap".

1922
The Cambridge & County Girls' School speech day was told that the school was not
doing as well as it should because girls were being taken away too soon. They
should be there for four or five years. Parents should realise this and it was no
good them taking them away when they were 16. They should remain at the school
until they were 18, or at least 17, if not they were keeping some other girl away
who could have remained the proper time

1897
At St Ives rural district council meeting Mr Barlow said that the Fenstanton pump
was only about eight feet from the pond and every time cattle or horses went to the
pond the water was stirred up and became black, and this water found its way into
the well. If they cleaned out the well a dozen times they would never made him
believe the water in that well would be good because the water would percolate
through to the well

TUESDAY
4th November
1972

Pity the poor dogs of Huntingdon, Haverhill, St Neots and Mildenhall. An R.S.P.C.A.
inspector said: "Many Londoners come down to places like Haverhill and feel they
are in the country for the first time. They've not been allowed to keep animals
before and their first thought is: 'Now we can have a pet'. They usually get a
labrador dog without thinking how big it will grow". Lack of time to give the
animals sufficient exercise and a small garden often resulted in its being turned
out on the streets and this was when the dogs joined up in packs to roam together.
At St Neots the dogs roamed the estates in packs all day, frightening children and
old people.
1947
The first R.A.F. "permanent" cinema in the country to be fitted with 16 m.m. sub-
standard size projectors was opened at Duxford. Those who remember the somewhat
bare camp cinema of the war days would not recognise the one at Duxford. RAF
personnel have fitted it with a sloping floor using chiefly wood from old aircraft
packing cases. The walls have been decorated with brightly-coloured murals based on
Disney cartoon subjects and the whole atmosphere is that of a cosy "intimate"
cinema. The projector picture is clear, and the sound reproduction excellent. The
equipment has been provided by the RAF Film Corporation,
which also supplies the films

1922
The Central Committee on Women's Training and Employment hope to open a centre in
Eden Street, Cambridge, for training girls in all branches of women's work
including cookery, laundry, housewifery and health subjects. It is believed that
many girls are prevented from taking up domestic work through lack of the money to
buy the necessary outfit. In their needlework classes they will make their uniform
and at the end of the training each girl will be completed with a complete uniform.
The period of training is generally 13 weeks and the chance which this course gives
to unemployed girls to make a fresh start is one which may not recur, and which
should not lightly be refused

1897
The annual working men's dinner of the St Ives Quoits Club was held at the New
Crown, St Ives. Thirty-nine members sat down to an excellent spread. They were told
some people carping at the game of quoits but if they kept such honorary members as
Mr Fellowes, Mr Ruston (the mayor) and Mr R.J. Linsell, they would resuscitate the
good old game of quoits in the county. The Chairman proposed the health of the
visiting clubs including the Durham Ox at Cambridge

WEDNESDAY
5th November

1972
Britain's top female liberationist, Miss Germaine Greer, told Cambridge
undergraduates of the sexual tensions she had become aware of in the university
while studying at Newnham College five years ago. She said: "Most people feel that
this university enshrines the most incapacitating mistakes about the relationship
between men and women. Why was it when it came to May Balls male undergraduates
always invite girls from the language schools, or their cousins from London?. The
thing that amazes me is that the girls do not break into the May Balls by inviting
all kinds of truck drivers as their escort. I went to most of the balls over the
fence and what I cannot understand is why girls have baulked at this male
confidence trick"

1947
In spite of the fact that there are even fewer fireworks about this year than last,
we shall doubtless hear quite
a few bangs to-night, organised by those boys whose hours of patient waiting have
been rewarded by securing a few of the precious squibs, spinning wheels, golden
rain and other varieties which delight both the eye and the ear. The shortage is
due to a combination of three things - shortage of paper, labour and fuel, paper
being possibly the primary one. The Board of Trade have issued an appeal to the
public not to use waste paper and cardboard for November the Fifth bonfires as it
goes to make packaging for exports and
ceiling boards for new houses
1922
Fen Ditton Parish Council asked the County Council to take steps for the
acquisition for the purposes of a recreation ground of the field opposite the
Plough Inn. Ald Tebbutt remarked that he did not think it was desirable to
encourage football among young people, but he thought it was most desirable to
encourage bowls among old men. (Laughter). Recreation grounds should not be only
for cricket and football, but for the whole village, including women.

1897
The Holbeach (Lincolnshire) Guardians have received a letter from the Local
Government Board asking what number of currants were to be put into the children's
pudding. It seems that the information is required for audit purposes. The master
of a workhouse is a busy man, with no small weight of responsibility upon his
shoulders. If he is to be compelled to county the currants, we fancy those tasty,
but indigestible
comestibles will be conspicuous by their absence. The Local Government Board is
waking up - to trifles

THURSDAY
6th November
1972
A firework, probably a rocket from a Guy Fawkes party, is thought to have caused a
fire which almost burned out a historic 18th century thatched cottage at Landbeach.
The cottage, built in the 1760s by the then Rector, had been unoccupied for the
last three years. Fireworks were also believed to have started a fire which badly
damaged an old wooden barn used by Bar Hill junior school as a storeroom. Almost
the whole of the 2,000 sq. ft. building, part of the original Bar Hill Farm and one
of the new village's oldest buildings, was destroyed

1947
Six undergraduates and two RAF men were arrested during the usual Guy Fawkes Night
scenes in the centre of Cambridge last night. From 7.30 crowds grew steadily on
Market Hill. Fireworks were discharged freely and the din reached its peak between
eight and half-past. Members of the University who earlier had been
outnumbered by more than ten to one were in force by nine o'clock, several minor
scuffles occurred about this time, and the first of several policemen's helmets
disappeared. Proctors and their "bulldogs" early kept
undergraduates on the move. After that the crowd gradually thinned away, and by
1.15 there were only
groups here and there

1922
A lamp-boy, G.E.R. of Thoday street, Cambridge was summoned for throwing a firework
on Senate House-hill on 4th inst. - Fined 1s. Ten shillings was the fine imposed
upon an undergraduate of Trinity college for a similar offence on Market-hill.
Defendant said he did not know they were arresting people for letting fireworks
off, or else he would not have been foot enough to do so in front of half the
police force. An undergraduate of Corpus Christi who was fined 10s. stated that the
came on to the square and saw a lot of police loafing about so he thought he would
like to throw some fireworks

1897
Carter Jonas offered for sale by auction the important freehold property of the Fen
Ditton Hall Estate,
comprising the fine old manor house known as "Ditton Hall", Ditton Meadows on the
Long Reach, the Home Farm at Fen Ditton and 402 acres of land. Three lots on the
east side of Ditton Lane, each containing 1 acre of land were sold for £325 and
three acres fronting Newmarket Road realised £220. The Fen Ditton Hall, with 72
acres of grass land known as Ditton Meadows found several bidders but the property
was bought in at £4,000 and several small plots of grass land adjoining were
withdrawn

FRIDAY
6th November
1972

The odd man out in Mr Heath's wide-ranging Government reshuffle is Mr Francis Pym,
the 50-year-old Chief Whip and M.P. for Cambridgeshire. Mr Heath has decided that
it would be imprudent to dispense with Mr Pym's skillful role as another stormy
session looms. Mr Pym welcome the promotion of his colleague, Mr Peter Kirk, the MP
for Saffron Walden, from a relatively obscure junior post in the Defence Ministry
to leader of the first Conservative delegation to the Common Market Parliament. The
new Solicitor General, Mr Michael Havers is a former chairman of West Suffolk
Quarter Sessions and lives at Ousden, near Newmarket. Sir Harry Legge-Bourke, the
Isle of Ely MP whose decision to quit the chairmanship of the Conservative 1922
Committee was announced at the weekend is expected to be on sick leave for a month

1947
The President of the Coton Women's Institute said that such was the pressure on the
present bus services from the village that housewives had to shop "by proxy". When
people did eventually get into Cambridge they found "the cupboard bare". Mrs
Burbage of Cambridge Road, Coton, said that people were often left behind and had
to reply on motorists to give them a lift into Cambridge. The last time she
travelled back on the 12.20 bus from Cambridge she said, "We were really packed in
like sardines and I was really scared to
travel"

1922
The President of Cambridge Trades Council and Labour Party said they were extremely
disappointed that Mrs Rackham was knocked out (at the council election). She had
done more than any other lady for the working classes in Cambridge. No sooner was
she off the Fulbourn Asylum Board of Visitors than whisky for the Visitors at their
lunch was brought back. Mrs Rackham had been successful in getting the whisky
knocked off, and had been fighting to get the inmates provided with butter instead
of margarine and whole milk instead of skimmed milk

1897
A company has been formed to acquire the rights of an invention for automatically
securing and holding cycles upon the principles of the penny in the slot. The
public cycle racks will be placed in convenient centre, and, by putting his penny
in the slot and thereby unlocking a lid which closes over the wheel, the owner can
place his machine in perfectly safe custody, and take away with him a key, by which
key alone the locker can be undone. To get his machine out the cyclist opens the
lid, replaces his key, turns it and lets the lid down; the wheel is released by the
falling of the lid, the penny drops into a receiver, the key is secured and the
apparatus closed.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
10th November
1972
Only three months after starting work on a housing scheme at Great Shelford, a
development company who pitched their prices too high are pulling out and re-
selling the land. Arjon, of Stansted, advertised three and four- bedroomed houses
planned for the estate on September 15. The asking prices were from £21,500 and
£23,500 respectively. Only two people placed reservations on houses & later one of
them withdrew but this house was later reserved at the price £3,000 lower by
another purchaser. Now after partially completing the two houses reserved, Arjon
have put the 18 remaining plots on the market

1947
Cambridge's Remembrance Parade, 300 strong, which yesterday honoured the fallen in
church and at the War Memorial, was the biggest muster for several years. Big
crowds lined the streets as the parade marched to Holy Trinity for the British
Legion's annual Service of Remembrance, and as later it made its way to the War
Memorial, where wreaths were laid.

1922
Armistice Day - Remembrance Day as many people prefer to call it - once again comes
round tomorrow. The occasion will be observed with all the solemnity of former
years by all, not excepting the exuberant spirits who will participate in a
promised 'Varsity "rag" for they will hold their noise at 11am and join with the
rest in the two minutes' silence which will ensue throughout the country. The "rag"
will take the form of a "circus". Undergraduates will be attired in the skins of
wild animals. It is rumoured that the effigy of the ex- Kaiser will be burnt at the
stake on Market Hill in the evening!

1897
Sir - I should like to ask my fellow ratepayers, more especially those living in
the vicinity of Mill Road,
Cambridge, which is more important to them – the improvement of the Guildhall,
which I understand to
cost £40,000, or the stinking condition of the Mill road sewers, which has for its
vent the manholes. From
two of them, especially the Petersfield one, the stench on Sunday was enough to
breed an epidemic. How long are we to stand this sort of business? - James Plant

TUESDAY
11th November
1972
It's five years since the carriage doors slammed at Longstowe station. Now it is
one of four stations on the old Cambridge to Bedford line which will go under the
hammer at an auction in Bedford next month. They
were all closed by Dr Beeching. Longstowe is a rare opportunity for the railway
enthusiast with the money
to back up his fanaticism. It has a vacant station house and the station building
to go with it. The track and sleepers have already been taken up and the lines sold
to adjoining landowners

1947
The question of providing access to Cambridge railway station from the east side of
the town was mentioned at the Town Council. Coun Amey said that at one time the
people of Romsey had a bus service to the station but that had been taken away.
Many railway workers lived in the Romsey area and the lack of any access to the
station from that side caused them unnecessary miles of cycling and walking. He
considered the 25 per cent of the population of the town should have access to the
station. He understood that in the plan for rebuildingthe railway station such an
access is provided for

1922
As in every other town and village throughout the land the Two Minutes Silence was
observed in Cambridge
today. In the streets traffic was stopped by the police and pedestrians stood just
where they were when the first maroon went off. Market Hill was densely crowded and
as the Guildhall clock started to chime men stood to attention and removed their
hats, all movement ceased and the traffic stopped. The only sounds to be heard were
the crying of one or two babies. Shortly before the second maroon a shuffling step
was heard
coming slowly along the Cury, a few turnd their heads and saw an old man who,
apparently oblivious, kept on his way undisturbed until a penetrating hiss: "Stand
still, Beaver!" brought him back to this world and he
stood with the rest of mankind

1897
Last night saw the inauguration of a new gymnasium club at Cambridge, rejoicing in
the name of "Orion". It is located at the Spread Eagle, Lensfield Road. The cosy
room was tastefully decorated with drapery and weapons of gymnastic art. About a
fortnight ago some half-a-dozen of the gentlemen present gathered together and
started the club. Already they have about fifty members and they expect everyone
who was elected to be a gentleman. They did not want those who were not. 1897 11 13

WEDNESDAY
12th November
1972
Mr David Robinson, the millionaire Newmarket racehorse owner and businessman may be
the "mystery benefactor" behind the plans of Gonville and Caius college Cambridge,
for a new mixed undergraduate college. Mr Robinson's name has been linked with the
anonymous gift announced a year ago which is thought to be worth about £5 million.
Caius college, founded in 1348, has been considering possible sites for the
proposed college. The college-owned house "Finella" on Queen's Road and their
sports ground on Barton Road have been considered.

1947
I am assured that people have started Christmas shopping even earlier than usual
this year, as they are
afraid there will be no toys left at Christmas. Apparently shoppers are not
deterred by the prices, for
they are buying the expensive lines and big toys. The sort of things being bought
are scooters, tricycles and
pedal cars, dolls houses (from 30s. to £6.6.0), & sleeping dolls with real hair
from Czechoslovakia. A good average for a doll is 50s. and for a teddy bear
£3.10.0. Clockwork toys are in great demand, but short supply. Rubber bath toys are
back again, at prices like 5s.11d. Novelty crackers are being made once more at
prices like 18s.9d

1922
If the Cambridge undergraduate can find any excuse for a "rag" he invariably
organises a more or less
elaborate affair. Yesterday's "circus" was a rag that everybody could enjoy; it did
no harm to anybody and
above all a a result of its labours aided Lord Haig's fund - "Poppy Day" - to the
extend of £115 or thereabouts. The circus was a screamingly funny affair and
brought everyone to doorways, windows and, in some cases, roof tops. The signal for
the two minutes Armistice silence was heard in Downing-street and
immediately the procession pulled up. The two minutes over pandemonium started as
suddenly as it had ceased

1897
Much excitement was caused at Saffron Walden by a horse attached to a G.E.R. trolly
bolting from the goods yard. It went at a rapid pace up the Station road, down
South road and Fairycroft road. The animal turned the corner and ran across East
street into the front of the house of Mr W. Samuell, harness maker, doing
considerable damage. The trolly was broken and the iron axle snapped in two. The
horse was not hurt. The animal had only been used at Walden a few days, doing duty
during the illness of the horse usually worked

THURSDAY
13th November
The roof was torn off a Cambridge house and hurled down the street as 60 m.p.h.
gales and torrential rain swept through Mid-Anglia during the night. The storm left
a trail of chaos throughout the area, with trees
uprooted, chimneys dislodged and motorists stranded by water-logged cars. Hundred
of trees were uprooted in the region and villagers at King's Ripton, near
Huntingdon turned out in the early hours to clear a
tree which blocked the Ramsey Road. The storm caused widespread power cuts; one of
the biggest failures was at Gamlingay where 200 consumers were without power

1947
There is a need for part-time nurses in Cambridgeshire and a campaign to recruit
them is to be launched. Fulbourn was described as being "in a dangerous position"
and one of the main difficulties mentioned by the Matrons of hospitals in the area
was getting people for night and weekend work. Asked for their views Mrs Ditchburn
said: "We at the County Hospital are very fortunate. We are well staffed and have
our full complement". Mrs Mace explaining the position at Chesterton said
approximately a third of the present staff was part time, which meant the night,
weekend and early morning duties fell to the permanent staff. Mrs Bradley said that
Linton was only one short of the full complement. At Fulbourn they had 32 permanent
and 27 part time nurses to look after 528 patients

1922
P.C. Bailey said he was on mounted duty on Saturday when he turned round and found
that defendant had hold of his horse's tail, pulling it and causing it nearly to
fall over. P.C. Hager spoke to seeing defendant
seize the horse's tail and hind leg. When charged he said: "I was only stoking the
horse's neck". The Chief
Constable added that the defendant and several others were the cause of a great
deal of trouble on Saturday
night. They gave considerable trouble to the police and he asked for a heavy
penalty. Defendant was attached to the Officer Training Corps in charge of horses.
The Mayor said they considered it a very serious offence and defendant was fined
40s.

1897
On Saturday night a Western force was advancing on Cambridge from the direction of
St Neots and an Eastern force had been assembled to protect the town. They
established a line of outposts from Coton to Barton church. At about three o'clock
the opposing forces came into collision. The first firing took place in Barton
village. Barton hill formed a strong point in the defence and here Colonel Cronin,
much assisted by the Maxim-guns made a prolonged stand, but the numerical
superiority of the attacking force compelled him at length to retire, fighting hard

FRIDAY
14th November
1972
Young people in Cambridge have lost their Saturday night dances - the high spot of
their week - and this
has meant more violence in the city, Steve, an apprentice chef at Christ's college
claims. The Dorothy - the city's best known catering and dancing centre - closed in
August. Teenagers have looked for other dances, but tend to sped more time
wandering around looking for somewhere to go that staying in any place. Saturday
night dances at the Corn Exchange suit another type of person, said Steve. They
prefer a different
sort of music, which he describes as "heavy". He and other young people who
frequented the Dorothy preferred Tamla Mowtown music. There are more than 80 people
who used to go to the Dorothy. Many of these now wander the streets of Cambridge,
travelling from one pub to another looking for something to do.

1947
Members of the Great Ouse Catchment Board gave their approval to a revised Flood
Protection Scheme estimated to cost £6,550,000. The Consulting Engineers proposed
the cut-off channel should be taken from Denver to the River Lark with a small
extension to pick up the river Kennet. They had also investigated suggestions for a
pumping station at Ely and for an extension of the cut- off channel to Upware. The
only comment was made by the Chairman who, replying to a query as to whether this
scheme when carried out would prevent floods in the future said: "I should think
the answer is yes as far as humanly possible"

1922
(During the election) children did their best to amuse our representative with
ditties apparently of their own
concoction. One girl said "Vote for Stubbs and get more grub". The next attempt was
better "Vote for Gray and lower pay, and have to work on Saturday". But what about
Mr Montagu? Was there no little song for him? A little lad blurted forth "Vote for
Montagu the worse for you". It was enough. Our representative fled into the mist

1897
The Cambridge public may rest assured that though there may be a great nuisance
from smells yet there is very little chance of their being harmful to health. We
have found out that in some of the worst cases it is due to the sewer taking away
the wash from the college kitchens and everyone knows what green water smells
like. It has been noticed that the smells are more particularly unpleasant when the
kitchens are being
washed up. That is probably one of the chief causes in the greater part of the
borough of smells from the
fresh sewage

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
November 17th
1972
Plans for the conversion of Cambridge's Corn Exchange to a 1,500-seat concert hall
costing £936,200 will beconsidered at the inaugural meeting of the Concert Hall
Action group. Before the meeting will be a feasibility study drawn up by Arup
Associates, the London consultants who were responsible for the Maltings concert
hall at Snape. One of the partners said "not only Cambridge, but Britain as a
whole, will gain a concert hall of potentially international stature". The study
recommends an extension to the Corn Exchange involving the closure of Parsons Court
and the acquisition of other properties on its west side

1947
The S.O.S. Society's Boys' Hostel at Winston House, Brooklands Avenue, Cambridge
was officially opened in the presence of a large audience, including magistrates
from the surrounding district. Lord Huntingfield spoke its work in relation to its
care for boys who had either come into contact with Probation Officers or had homes
that were not particularly desirable. He commented "Youth, being what it is, does
not always
recognise the laws of the grown-ups and they are inclned to do things which bring
them into conflict with the long arm of the law. These are the kind of boys taken
in here and looked after".

1922
Sir Douglas Newton, Conservative candidate, commenced a tour of the polling booths.
All went well until Honey- hill, Cambridge, was approached. A large contingent of
the youth of the neighbourhood were lying in ambush and as his car turned the
corner swooped into the roadway with cheers and counter cheers that would have done
credit to a large football match. They clambered on to the car and tore off the
pink and white rosettes, which they promptly transferred to their own persons

1897
An action was brought by Albert Golding, the tenant of certain property in High
Street, Newmarket, to restrain alleged interference with their ancient light by
William Reilly & co. Defendants had acquired the Old Greyhound Inn in 1896 and
pulled it down, and in building a fine hotel in its place they had obstructed the
light to the plaintiff's window. James Cross, a draper's porter,said he knew of the
obstruction of light to one window by the fact that he could no longer look out of
it and see his uncle. (Laughter). Before the new buildings were erected he could do
so. A number of young milliners spoke of the interference with the light to their
workrooms since the erection of the new hotel

TUESDAY
November 18th
1972
The Government are considering the future of Tracked Hovercraft, the experimental
air cushion transport project presently under test at Earith. Speculation has
surrounded the project for some time. The work is well
behind schedule. One major problem is the test track at Earith. At present this is
little more than a mile long
and the much vaunted 100 mph speed for the experimental vehicle RTV31, has not yet
been reached. Early reports expected three miles of track to be completed last year
and the full eight miles to be ready at the end of this year

1947
Treasures from European homes guarded during the war years together with many
articles made in camps for displaced persons, all of great artistic beauty, were on
view at the European Voluntary Workers' Hostel at
Bottisham and the Latvian group presented a concert to celebrate their national day
of independence. This
hostel is a reception area for voluntary workers in this country, who stay there
about ten days while they are equipped with ration books, identity cards, etc,
taught a little English and generally "put on their feet"

1922
Undergraduates - both male and female - took a prominent part in the parliamentary
election contest. I
learn that 212 undergraduates and students of Newnham and Girton registered their
names as volunteers, and a large number ably assisted the Conservatives in the
County, Borough and University contests. They help was particularly valuable in the
County as flying motor columns were organised for visits to remote villages,
where the villagers were assembled by the ringing of a bell and addresses were
given by some of the undergraduates, whilst others distributed literature or
canvassed voters
1897
It is probable that no part of the district is regarded with such anxiety by our
city fathers as Cherryhinton.
For years it has been felt that the drainage system of that ever-growing parish was
not what it ought to be.
Every year sees rural scenes transformed into the busy haunts of the villa-raising
builder, and what was once
a green pasture is turned into sites for serried ranks of bricks. But with all this
progress sanitary requirements frequently lag. The greatest difficulty is to keep
the soapsuds from the laundries and the water from the sinks out of the surface
water drains. It is possible for the drainage from the cesspools to percolate
through the soil into the brooks and so come near the water supply.

WEDNESDAY
November 19th
1972
Twins are supposed to look alike. But there is no similarity between Haverhill and
its proposed twin
town of Pont St Esprit in the south of France. The French town, swamped in sunshine
and steeped in
history, is half as big and twice as pretty as Haverhill. But the contrasts between
the two towns and their ways of life will simply serve to intensify their interest
in one another, and also help to promote an interchange of people and ideas

1947
The thoughts of women everywhere will be with H.R.H. Princess Elizabeth, when, in a
few short hours from
now, she goes to the altar of Westminster Abbey to her bridegroom, Lieut Philip
Mountbatten. Wedding presents have been bought as a response to the public appeal
launched some time ago, when people were invited to subscribe a shilling each.
Cambridgeshire's money has been spent on a collection of antique furniture and
glass, two sets of books and two garden seats. The latter were made at Papworth
Industries, but
everything else was purchased in Cambridge and is on view to the public at Mr
Stanley Woolston's shop in St Andrew's Street

1922
Dame Clara Butt had a great reception at the Cambridge Guildhall when, with other
well-known artistes, she
presented a second International Celebrity Concert. The hall was quite comfortably
filled and for two and
a half hours music lovers had a rare time. The famous contralto gave two trifles by
Franco Leoni, "Poor
Robin" and "The Little Bird", a delightful humourous number. The audience were much
taken with it and,
having given it to those in the body of the hall, Dame Clara Butt turned round and
sang it to those in the
orchestra

1897
Scarcely a week ago the Vice Chancellor entertained a distinguished company of
judges at a banquet in the
hall of Downing College, after which an adjournment was made to the rooms of one of
the Fellows. Certain
ardent spirits deemed it a favourable opportunity to indulge in a little diversion,
suggested by the obtrusive handle of the door behind which the distinguished guests
were killing time. "Why not fix it with stout wire to some neighbouring object?"
The wire was forthcoming, the connection was made, and just sufficient length was
allowed to admit of the door being opened a few inches - but no more. The judges
tugged and tugged and tugged and all the Queens' judges and all the Queen's men
would not make the door open sufficiently wide to enable them to get out. One
valiantly put his hand through the small opening and tried to sever the wire with a
carving knife. When he withdrew his hand it was copiously covered with red paint -
and the wire remained intact. It is stated that the distinguished guests took this
practical joke in good part - extract from the "Daily Mail"

THURSDAY
November 20th
1972
The Cambridge city council's planning consultants who are designing the
redevelopment plans for the Burleigh Street- Fitzroy Street have suggested the
building of a departmental store East of Napier Street.
Consultants feel that the introduction of shopping uses at this point would improve
the whole project in addition to saving housing land to the North of Maids Causeway
and James Street. They have also proposed
that the pedestrian way along Fitzroy Street should be graded down and Napier
Street itself raised over the
pedestrian way. This appears to be the best way of separating traffic and
pedestrians

1947
Many people unable to be in their homes listened to the broadcast of the Royal
Wedding in Cambridge
cinemas, all of which were thrown open for the purpose, free of charge. The biggest
audience is reported from the Central Cinema who estimated the total as being in
the neighbourhood of 500. The sound equipment at the Regal broke down at the last
minute and the small queue which had formed there was
diverted to the New Theatre opposite, where a set had been hastily brought from his
home and installed in
the foyer by the Manager and the thrilling, impressive and historic service of the
wedding of H.R.H. Princess
Elizabeth, future Queen of England and Lieut. Mountbatten, Duke of Edinburgh, was
heard by a number of people. Messrs Miller ad Sons, Sidney Street, to meet many
requests from customers, televised the proceedings in one of their studios, which
was packed

1922
The growth of wireless since its first invention is truly wonderful, and one cannot
fail to be impressed
with the way in which it has been simplified. The present arrangements for
"broadcasting" have resulted
in the setting up of many private installations in Cambridge and some of the finest
"sets" are being produced at Messrs G.H. Pye's works in Cam-road. In 1921 this firm
experienced a very slack time, and in order to keep their workers employed, they
commenced experiments in wireless. They are now producing as fast as they can
simplified receiving sets of two to five valves

1897
Sir - My attention has been called to a curious instance of the gullibility of the
correspondent of a London daily paper copied in your columns yesterday. It is true
that three undergraduates of this college have been send down for the remainder of
the term, but the offence for which they have been punished was purely of a
domestic nature. For the satisfaction of the University, I may add that not one of
her Majesty's judges who honoured the college by their presence last Thursday knows
anything whatever of the occurrence - J.C. Saunders, Downing College
FRIDAY
November 21st
1972
The campaign to re-open the Great Ouse to boats between St Neots and Bedford has
made a huge step
forward with an "outstanding gift" of £100,000 from Bedford Corporation towards the
rebuilding of Great
Barford lock. The money should amount to more than half the cost of restoring the
lock and dredging the
river beyond it. After Great Barford only two other major locks would need to be
restored before navigation reaches Bedford.

1947
Last night the evening of the Royal occasion of the wedding of Princess Elizabeth,
saw 800 Cambs farmers and their relatives spend in Cambridge an appropriately right
royal time in celebration of the annual County Farmers' Ball - the biggest, and
many thought the best, of these functions yet held. Appropriate too, was the choice
of band, Tommy Kinsman's, described recently as the Princess's favourite. And the
Princess's wedding was marked by a toast to the Royal couple at a small party
attended by guests in one of the rooms of the Guildhall

1922
At Saffron Walden Post Office Mr G.R. Cox, late town postman, was presented with
the Imperial Service Medal by W.F. Barker, acting postmaster. It was the first of
such medals ever granted to a member of the staff of that district. Mr Cox had
served for 42 years without a blemish, and, more wonderful still, without once
being absent through sickness. It was rare that a Post Office servant could boast
of such a record. Mr Barker further expressed his appreciation at the manner in
which all the staff had worked during the election
pressure. From November 3rd to 13th 200,000 election communications passed through
that office. He considered it no mean achievement that with the small available
staff everything for despatch was date-
stamped and disposed of by 4.30 p.m., the only casualties being some blistered
hands and aching arms!

1897
The Old Baptist Chapel at Cottenham has a somewhat austere exterior, though inside
all is welcome and
brightness. But while the welcome has always been there the brightness is a very
recent addition. A month ago the chapel was anything but bright. Having been closed
for about a month the Chapel was re-opened
yesterday amid every manifestation of rejoicing. The general effect of brightness
has been given to the interior by the colouring of the walls, stencilling of the
window reveals, ornamentation of the ceiling and
varnishing of the pews. Mr W. Chivers said he could hardly realise that the
building was the same old
chapel. They had so decorated it and beautified it that they had brought it up to
the fashion of the 19th century

LOOKING BACK by Mike Petty

MONDAY
24th November
1972
Billy the Kid, fresh from his latest brush with the law, stood in a makeshift
office in the derelict,boarded-up pub in East Road that is the Cyrenian's haven for
dossers in Cambridge and threw down a challenge. "I'll bet you", he said in the
most confidential of tones, "that I can pick up in Cambridge as much in one week as
ever you can earn". Now Billy the Kid's reputation among the "touchers" of
Cambridge stands high. Billy the Kid is the city's uncrowned king and no sane man
would ever doubt his begging ability. "Well", I queried, playing safe, "I might be
interested". "You've got to beat 75-quid and most of that is from the students"

1947
The outbreak of fowl pest in Cambridgeshire has reached serious proportions and up
to Thursday no
fewer than 23 separate cases have been confirmed. Altogether a total of 3,850 birds
have had to be
slaughtered. The disease is believed to have been brought into the county by birds
sold at Cambridge
market on October 6th and 13th. The first outbreak was confirmed at Impington and
it rapidly spread. One
section of Messrs Chivers pedigree flock has been affected and some 60 birds have
had to be killed. The
pest has resulted in the killing of hundreds of head of poultry in Hunts. Outbreaks
have been reported at
Brampton and Colne in addition to the case at Ramsey several weeks ago

1922
A meeting of the Newmarket Memorial General Committee was held at the Council
Chamber. The Chairman said that he had spoken to "Mr.X" as to a site for the
nurses' home near the Jubilee Clock, but that
gentleman had told him that he was reserving the land there for another purpose.
What was wanted for the
nurses' home was two bedrooms, one for each nurse and a spare bedroom, a small
dressing room for dressing small cases, and a largish room which could be made into
a ward for four or six children. The secretary said he had £951.2s.6d in the bank

1897
The water in the river at St Ives is now exceedingly low, and the stench from it is
very bad indeed. At the
bottom of Priory-road it is enough to breed a fever and people can hardly bear it.
It is hoped the
approaching meeting of the Hunts. County Council will take the matter in hand.
Meanwhile we would suggest to Mr Stimpson, that for the sake of the public health,
he should shut the gates at the Staunch, and keep enough water in the river to
prevent any outbreak

TUESDAY
25th November
1972
More jobs are available today in Mid-Anglia than at any time since the mid 1960s.
Department of Employment statistics out today show that more than 2,000 jobs are
on offer - the first time this figure has been topped since 1967. The is almost
double the jobs on offer at this time last year. On the unemployment side the
picture is equally encouraging. The drop in the number of jobless begun in October
has continued - 2,053 being registered out of work this month compared to 2,132 in
October. In terms of work on offer only Haverhill is worse off that it was last
month

1947
At the concert of St Andrew's church school, Chesterton the Vicar said that the
school needed
modernising. "We want new class rooms, an assembly hall, better accommodation for
the staff and cloak
rooms etc. Under the new development plan which has been passed the school would be
entirely pulled down and rebuilt on the same site for £60 or £70,000. The manager
do not agree", he declared, "they think it is a financial extravagance and believe
everything that is necessary could be done for a third of that cost".
The speaker concluded that modernisation could be carried out in 50 or 100 years
time, the school would
still be there growing and developing and would show "a little of the history of
England"

1922
Sir - I much regret to read the reports of two fatal accidents caused by being run
down by motorists. This
is no time to be anti-rear light, anti-dazzle or diddle-daddle, but to make a move
and harness ourselves with the times that we live in, and not in the times of our
forefathers. I do not profess to be a prophet, but as "Motor Cycling" predicts the
time when lights will be on aeroplanes and "Tourist" predicts lights on pedestrians
I will predict the times when aeroplanes will be in the form of motor-cars, fitted
with folding wings made either to coast or fly and pedestrians will wear
mechanical-propelled boots which will by law be compelled to have a light both rear
and front - R.V. Leete

1897
A well-attended meeting was held in Eden Street school, Cambridge to discuss the
proposed expenditure
on a new Guildhall front. Mr R. Sturton said they must have a new cemetery as he
did not suppose sanitary
science would advance sufficiently rapidly to go in for cremation en bloc. Then
there was the new Police
Station and something would have to be done to the Sanitorium. Mr Burwick though
the more they beautified Cambridge the more good they would do to business. Why not
have a police station at the town hall, offices for the payment of rates, swimming
baths. He did not see why shops should not be built on Peas Hill so as to bring in
a considerable amount

WEDNESDAY
1972
26th November
Visitors to a new house at, near Ely, may be asked to take a pew. After all, that's
what people
have been doing there for 600 years. The idea is to convert the village's tiny St
Nicholas Church into a
two or three-bedroomed house - a job that has been loosely described as a major
alteration. St Nicholas,
which has been unused for the last 10 years has been bought subject to planning
permission to convert it into a house. If the deal goes through the new owner will
inherit an unspecified number of skeletons - not in
the cupboard but in the one-time graveyard outside

1947
Whilst many places are struggling to cope with the newly recognised problem of
providing better
facilities for old people Newmarket has had an amazing stroke of luck. It has
received a gift of no less than
a mansion, and £10,000 to go with it, to provide a place of rest for elderly
people. The mansion, Exning
House, was formerly the seat of the late Lord Glanely, and the generous donor is
his nephew, Mr George
Gibson. The only condition attaching to the gift is that the house will not be
called a Home or Institute.
It will probably be called the Lord Glanely Rest

1922
The annual report of the Cambridgeshire Medical Officer of Health has just been
issued. Demobilisation
in 1919 was followed by the high birth rate of 20.7 per thousand in 1920. There
were 131 illegitimate
births. The proportion of illegitimate to total births which fell during the early
stages of the war subsequently rising to a maximum in 1919 has now fallen somewhat
below that for 1913. A lower level of infant mortality has only twice been reached,
although 1921 was a year of exceptional drought and therefore likely to be
prejudicial to infant life. Dealing with housing the report states that there is
still abundant evidence of the continued existence of serious overcrowding

1897
The opening ceremony in connection with the new public buildings at Baldock took
place. The task of declaring the building open had been left to Mrs Pryor, the wife
of the gentleman who so generously gave the town the site. Mr Neville HInde trusted
the building would contain every desideratum for the future growth and development
of their urban business. He had always regarded the ratepayers of Baldock as a very
level- headed lot of people. The building was an ornament to the town and very much
to be preferred to the unpicturesque ruins which once occupied the site

THURSDAY
27th November
1972
The opening of the Union of Construction, Allied Trades and Technician's eastern
regional headquarters
in Cambridge marks a major step forward in acquiring the "modern image" required in
today's union
activities. For several years the Union, known then as the Amalgamated Society of
Woodworkers, operated from small offices in Newmarket Road. Now with the move
completed to new offices at the corner of Abbey Road "the union are in a position
to project their image", says regional secretary Ivor Jordan. The offices were to
have been opened in July but the ceremony was put off because of the building
workers strike

1947
Cambridge is well used to welcoming Very Important Persons but none is so sure of a
vociferous reception from the youngsters as Father Christmas. He was received with
traditional acclaim on Saturday when, in the presence of hundreds of youngsters, he
arrived at Mitcham's Corner, Chesterton Road. On arrival he proceeded to deliver
the goods in the traditional way, leaving his "reindeer coach", climbing up a
ladder outside the shop and disappearing down a big chimney. A crowd of children
saw him in Nurseryland, surrounded by his friends, the Three Little Pigs, Big Bad
Wolf, Pluto, Micky and Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and others. He will remain in
residence until Christmas Eve

1922
The first dairy in this part of the country to obtain a Ministry of Health licence
is the Stetchworth
Dairies Certified Grade A Dairy Farm, Union Lane, Chesterton, which claims to be
the largest private
retailer in the Eastern Counties. The herd consists of 12 cows, six of them being
pedigree Guernseys. The
cows are accommodated in large, airy sheds, without stalls or partitions of any
kind. Our representative
was shown several bottles of milk which had been bottled for eight days. One of
these was opened and
the contents found to be only just beginning to "turn"; certified milk will keep
perfectly fresh for four or five days

1897
Sir. The Reading Room on East Road, Cambridge will be re-opened on Monday next,
from six till half-past nine o'clock. Everything has been done to make the room as
efficient and comfortable as possible, new gas
fittings and furniture provided and the floor has been covered throughout with
linoleum. By the liberality of
the Mayor about one hundred volumes of useful works of reference, biography and
travel will be placed upon the open shelves. There will be supplied 15 daily
newspapers and it is hoped that there will be a large
attendance and an appreciable use made of the literature supplied - John Pink,
Librarian

FRIDAY
28th November
1972
The badly-needed extension to St Neots branch library will not be built for at
least three years, the County
Librarian, Mr R.V. Keyworth, said yesterday. This was the earliest the County
Library Committee had managed to include the cost in the Huntingdon and
Peterborough capital spending estimates. They intended eventually to double the
library size. "I wish somebody could tell me what we could do in the meantime",
said Mr Keyworth. "There is nowhere to spread – only backwards. We will really be
scratching our heads in a couple of years"

1947
Last drops of basic petrol "went into action" on Wednesday to take their owners to
the '99 Rowing Club ball,
final big function in Cambridge of the shortly-to-end present "basic" era. Both the
Corn Exchange and
Guildhall - connected by a covered bridge across Wheeler Street which was closed
for the occasion - were in use for the ball. Dancing to the delightful music of
Maurice Iliffe and his orchestra took place in the Large Room of the Guildhall. In
the Corn Exchange, transformed by a marquee, buffet suppers were served. Here
restful music was played by the Coryton Trio. Those present numbered round about
600

1922
We regret to announce the death of Mr Joshua Taylor at the age of 76. Mr Taylor was
the eldest son of the
late Mr Joshua Taylor, who carried on a tailoring business in Cambridge and Ely.
One small shop in Sidney-street doing what was mainly a country trade was all that
comprised the Cambridge branch when Mr Taylor took charge. The little shop of sixty
years ago developed steadily under his guidance into the present flourishing
business of Messrs Joshua Taylor & Co.Ltd, tailors, hatters, bootmakers and general
outfitters,
which is on the same site as the shop occupied by the founder of the business

1897
At Saffron Walden County Court John Maris, sadler, Linton, sought to recover from
George Housden, dealer, damages to his garden by defendant's fowls. Plaintiff
stated that 20 roods of growing crops had been
damaged. Lettuce plants, barley, peas and other things were spoiled. The fowls were
on the ground a dozen at a time. Defendant said the fowls had never been on the
garden. There was a quick-set fence through which
there were gaps. His Honour : Do you mean to say that your fowls were so virtuous
that when they made the
holes in the hedge they would not go through. Defendant said he brought his fowls
up so that they would not go on. He swore that the fowls had not done damage that
would cover the prick of a needle. His Honour considered the claim of £1.6s.0d was
not exaggerated and gave judgement for the plaintiff

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
1st December
1972
A new hotel opens in Cambridge this week - and with 33 bedrooms it becomes the
fourth largest in the city.
The new Arundel House Hotel is a complex of red brick houses on Chesterton Road
overlooking the River and Jesus Green. The development follows the purchase of
number 61 Chesterton Road last year and its
conversion into a 12-bedroomed hotel. Now John Norfolk has converted two other
adjacent properties he owns - from flats and bedsitters to an integrated hotel
complex. "With house prices as they are now it is
virtually impossible to charge a proper rent related to these new values, " he
said. "The transition of Chesterton Road into a hotel was the obvious answer to
get a proper return"

1947
The days when he sold beer at 2d a pint and could buy gin at 10d a half-pint and a
gallon of proof whisky
for 18s are recalled by Mr F. Badcock of Fen Road, Cottenham who today celebrated
with his wife a golden
wedding. The couple kept the Jolly Waterman from 1899 to 1932. "When we took over
the Jolly Waterman the opening hours were from 6 a.n. to 10 p.m.", Mr Badcock said.
"Many of our customers were men working in the fields and we also catered for
Sunday fishermen, who in those days, like everyone else, could not get a drink on a
Sunday unless they were 'travellers', which meant they had walked three miles or
more.

1922
As exponents of the art of classical dancing, the Russian Ballet have won
considerable fame. Cambridge
Guildhall is not the best of buildings in which to present such an entertainment
and the fact that the
Ballet held us whenever they appeared is testimony to the excellence of their work.
They presented a variety
of dances. Supporting the Ballet was Cavalier Gennaro de Tura, the famous tenor and
dainty comedienne Miss Trixie Kay who found her way into the hearts of her
audience.

1897
Sir - Is there any anathema evil enough for these wonderfully and truly awful
patent "smell diffusers"
(sewage manholes). Now the smells which arise from some of these "death-traps" may
positively be seen
with the naked eye on almost any damp evening and are shortly, I hear, to be
reckoned amongst the "sights of Cambridge". These "black holes of old Cambridge"
are also a positive curse to cyclists who every ten yards or so have to make no
small detour to avoid inhaling the noisome odours which proceed from these
superabundant "sources of destruction and disease" - "Cave Odorem", Selwyn College
TUESDAY
2nd December
1972
Cambridge City Council's Trinity Hall Farm Industrial Estate looks more like an
army practice ground than a land of golden opportunity for trade and commerce. The
only thing that is conspicuous by its absence is
industry. Although it is now 10 years since the 12.6 acres off Nuffield Road were
designated for industrial
use there are still only two firms with premises there. Only firms displaced by
council re-development or public works can be sited there. At last week's council
meeting members agreed to seek permission from
the Department of the Environment to change the re-location criteria in order to
allow other firms to
take up sites on the estate

1947
The Great Ouse Catchment Board's flood protection scheme is going to take seven to
ten years to complete
in what is virtually a race against time. Bank height is limited by the fact that
the foundations on which
the banks are built are not firm. These foundations are in fact, in the words of
one engineer "a mixture
of compost and toothpaste". The 'toothpaste' is buttery clay which will ribbon
through your fingers when you take handfuls and squeeze it. The compost is peat. As
the banks can no longer be raised the water level must be kept down.The new scheme
will do this and will obviate the necessity of constantly heightening the banks

1922
Mr Doggett told Saffron Walden Board of Guardians that a lady visitor had said she
had found the fires in the women's wards very low at 3.30 and learned that
instructions had been given thet they were not to have
any more coal that day. Another had examined the bed clothes and found only one
fairly thick blanket, one
very thin one and one counterpane. The inmate was experiencing discomfort through
cold. He said they must take into consideration the ages of the occupants, also
that the windows must of necessity be kept open

1897
Sir: Christ's Lane is a thoroughfare that is as much used as any in Cambridge, and
is owned by a college.
During the last two years it has been a veritable quagmire, I came through last
evening and the mud was
several inches thick through the lane. When is Cambridge to be governed so that
there is the same law
measured out for the University as there is for the worker and when is Christ's
Lane to be paved in such a
manner that that it shall be as pleasant to walk through as it is walking across
Christ's Pieces? –
B.L. [Christs Lane was replaced by Bradwell's Court

WEDNESDAY
3rd December
1972
A plan to build up to 600 houses on farm land off Long Road, Trumpington has
brought mixed reaction from local residents. A Birmingham development company who
earlier this year took over Cambridge builders I.J. Stocker ltd, want to build
houses and a group of shops on land at Clay Farm. But some local residents object
because they think the land should remain open. It is zoned as open space and
playing fields, with most of it within the green belt, in the Cambridge town map.
The developers said it would be a 5 or 6 year scheme from the starting date

1947
It was a bewildering experience to visit the Cambridge Electric Supply Company's
power station, Thompson's Lane, during one of yesterday's peak periods. Bewildering
because of the steady hum of the
generating plant, the mass of gauges and dials, the terrific heat thrown out as the
inspection doors in the coal-burning "stokers" were opened and because of the
comparatively small number of men engaged in
controlling this veritable image of machinery. While the bulk of Cambridge's power
is generated at the
station a proportion comes off the nationally controlled "grid"

1922
P.C. Cudworth told Cambridge magistrates that he was on duty in Victoria Road when
he saw defendant riding a bicycle without a front light. He stopped him and asked
him where his light was. Defendant said it has just gone out and he was going to
light it. He then dismounted from the bicycle and witness noticed he
showed signs of having been drinking. Defendant took a box of matches from his coat
pocket and attempted to strike one. Witness then noticed that the lamp on the
machine was an electric one. This aroused his
suspicions.

1897
Once again the good folk of Barnwell are in possession of their reading-room. This
time improvements have
been carried out and the workers around East Road will not only have a convenient
room, but also an attractive and comfortable one. The room is the same as of yore,
and the exterior is as ugly as ever, but
inside everything has been re-painted and varnished, & incandescent lights have
replaced the old-fashioned
flickering gas jet. Although Mr John Pink, the borough librarian, opposed the re-
opening, since the decision
of the Council to again provide facilities for the thoughtful working men of
Barnwell he has done his utmost to ensure they are as full and liberal as possible

THURSDAY
4th December
1972
The Arbury Estate, a local authority complex on the northern fringe of Cambridge
and Bar Hill, a new
village about fives miles away, both suffer from the lack of a strong separate
identity and from isolation.
Bar Hill is suffering from the recent phenomenon of maximum human isolation. It
arises from two factors.
The first is that Bar Hill lies in a cul-de-sac. The second is that there are no
lines of communication dissecting the village. This would not be so bad if there
were something in the village to draw people
from the surrounding area, such as a countryside museum, miniature railway or area
sports centre. Without any major facilities or attractions the village is being by-
passed by the community at large

1947
The Chairman of Cambridgeshire County Council has received a grateful letter of
acknowledgment from
H.R.H. Princess Elizabeth for the wedding present recently sent to her from the
people of Cambridgeshire. The Princess wrote "I am sincerely grateful for the
magnificent wedding present which the people of Cambridgeshire with great
generosity have sent me. The Sheraton wardrobe and the chest of drawers will be
extremely useful to me in furnishing my house and I am delighted with the Queen
Anne clock for which I will find a place of honour. I am no less pleased with the
Waterford glass bowl, the wine glasses and the admirable collection of books
printed by the Cambridge University Press. This present is something which I really
value and which will always remind me of Cambridgeshire's kindness. Yours sincerely
ELIZABETH"

1922
Several people have remarked on a curious difference at night-time in the
appearance of the Catholic Church
corner in Cambridge. The explanation seems to be that the church clock is now
illuminated, after a lapse of
some years. Well, it is very nice to see it again, and we hope it may continue

1897
Shortly after 12 o'clock this morning the shop of Mr Norman, watchmaker, close to
the Sheep Market, St
Ives, was found to be on fire. It is the centre one of three buildings, the White
Hart and the Falcon being
on either side. The howling of a dog in the shop awoke the inmates, or they would
probably have been burnt in their beds. Mr John Anderson of the White Hart ran
round to the firemen's houses and the brigade, with
the apparatus, were quickly on the spot. The fire burnt its way into the White Hart
and penetrated every room in the Falcon except the front room downstairs. The dog
which gave the alarm was found dead in the
shop by the firemen

FRIDAY
5th December
1972
An R.A.F. camp - complete with barrack block, N.A.A.F.I., officers' mess and guard
room - is due to be auctioned at Newmarket later this month. The camp, which was
formerly an important communications centre, is one of the smallest in the country.
Although there are all the facilities for training a private army,
the camp at the top of Newmarket High Street, is likely to be sold to property
developers. Planners have indicated that permission for housing is likely to be
given. The three-acre site has been empty since the R.A.F. Eastern Region
communications headquarters was moved away, and Post Ofice staff now run a
communications section. Another Nemarket landmark, the old goods station at All
Saints road is also to be
auctioned on the same day. The station is a grade two listed building and is
regarded by experts as one of
the finest examples of early Victorian baroque architecture, but is now in a bad
state of repair

1947
Cambridgeshire county council's scheme to reconstruct the bridge at the boundaries
of Great and Little
Abington will involve disturbing the vault in which it is believed are buried the
remains of Jeremiah Lagden,
remembered in village story as a highwayman. The vault is in the garden of The Old
House, Little Abington,
once the property of Lagden. Parish records show his wife was buried there in 1784.
Their son and his wife
are also said to be buried in the vault. Jeremiah outlived them all, being over 90
when he died
1922
A patient in Fulbourn Asylum escaped from the institution on Sunday and this
afternoon was still at
large. The "Mystery Man" - who refuses to speak – was sitting in the airing court,
apparently in a peaceful and contented state of mind. Suddenly he threw off his
coat and waistcoat and made a dash for the railings. Jumping on to a rabbit hutch
he scaled the railings in true acrobatic style and made across fields. Here he
discarded his lower garments and continued his flight clad only in his shirt. A
short time later he was seen running across fields tearing his last remaining
garment off as he went and was last seen entering the woods near the Gogs

1897
The Meldreth Portland Cement and Brick co.ltd. has been formed for the purpose of
acquiring lands at
Meldreth for the manufacture of Portland and other cement, bricks, tiles etc, and
also for the purpose of
getting and selling coprolites. There are two other companies in the neighbourhood
doing similar business
at a good profit - the Cam Company and the East Anglian - and we have no doubt the
public will promptly subscribe the capital required

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
8th December
1972
There was a bit of a flap in Comberton this summer when the village ducks took to
the wing and flew away. The village pond had dried up. The ducks came back when the
autumn rains began and the pond started to
fill up again. This week the Army came to the rescue. The officers and men of the
Royal Engineers, based at
Waterbeach, decided that a spot of pond digging would be good training for their
excavator operators and on
Monday the job of lifting several tons of slime and silt began. An army spokesman
said "We have a number
of families living in the village and we decided it would be neighbourly and help
us at the same time"

1947
Further discussion with the Ministry of Food was essential in the problem of
undergraduate rations, a
Cambridge University officer said. "Undergraduates do not get enough on their
rations and their main
subsidiary food has been potatoes and bread. Certain colleges in Cambridge laid in
a store of potatoes and
should get through the winter but in other colleges who rely on week-by-week
purchases there will be a
very real hardship". A recent survey by "Varsity" shows that the charges for meals
vary per day in the
colleges from 6s 6d to 4s.3d

1922
Unemployment was the principal matter discussed at the meeting of the Cambridge
Trades Council and Labour Party. Mr Poll was glad that the unemployed were to pack
the gallery of the Cambridge Council Chamber; it ought to show some of the tranquil
old men on the Council that the unemployed were in earnest. The Chairman said the
unemployed question had been a nightmare to him. To see men unused to the pick
putting in three days on a sewer until their hands bled was enough to make another
man's heart bleed

1897
A testimonial was presented to Mr W.B. Taylor, chief clerk at Newmarket Post
Office, who is retiring. Mr
Taylor became a telegraph learner under the old Electric Telegraph Company at Ely,
and in 1855 was transferred to King's Lynn, where he remained in charge of the
telegraph office until 1868. In that
year he was appointed to Newmarket where for a considerable period he was the only
telegraph operator
in the town. When in 1870 the Government took over the telegraph service he was
appointed chief clerk. The telegraphic work at Newmarket has increased enormously.
On days upon which important races are run
several thousand messages are despatched and received and other weeks sometimes as
many as 2,500 messages are handled in a day.

TUESDAY
9th December
1972
A large out-of-town shopping complex covering about 10 acres is being planned for
Newmarket Road, just
outside the Cambridge boundary. But Cambridge planning committee decided to resist
the project. Fears were expressed about the effect the shopping centre would have
for the city council's plans for redeveloping the Burleigh street - Fitzroy street
area. Marshalls of Cambridge (Engineering) made an application to develop the
shopping complex, together with car parking and garages on a site immediately to
the East of their vehicular workshops off Newmarket Road. The site faces Cambridge
airport

1947
The word "Placet" (Latin for "It pleases") said by the Senior and Junior Proctors
in unison as they raised
their caps concluded the less-than-a-minute-long part of the Congregation in
Cambridge Senate House by which it was formally agreed that women should have full
status within the University. A handful of women
students, undergraduates and other visitors in the gallery heard the decision made.
It is planned that the new regulations shall come into force at the beginning of
the next academic year in October; they will come under Proctorial supervision and
will wear academic dress

1922
Councillors and representatives of Boys' Clubs met to discuss the possibility of
providing recreation,
together with some useful occupation for the ninety odd lads between the ages of 14
and 19 who are now
unemployed in Cambridge. A large number of these boys were running the streets and
probably deteriorating through idleness and lack of discipline. The Council had
tried an experiment in the form of a gymnasium, but it fell through. The boys were
at a very critical stage of growth, and it was dangerous for them to be going about
the streets with nowhere to go. At home they were not wanted. They were getting in
a very dangerous frame of mind, for they felt they were inferior to others.

1897
Fred Morley called the attention of Cambridge Council to the state ofthe new
sewers. He thought it was time
people were protected from the smells which at present arose from them. The worst
of them arose where three or four streets joined and the tradesmen at the corner of
the streets were in a worst position than those in the middle. They were losing
customers who went where there was not so much smell and one butcher said the
smells had affected the colour of the meat in his shops. Further people thought it
was the meat that
smelt and not the manholes (Laughter)

WEDNESDAY
10th December
1972
The future of Fisons is based firmly on research said the group's chief executive
when he opened the
agrochemical division's new laboratory complex at Harston. The new buildings
comprising a laboratory
block and a product applications department will eventually house 80 research,
chemical engineering and
analytical staff. Fisons Agrochemical Division employ 600 people at Harston of whom
about half are
headquarters administrative staff

1947
One thing I found out on making a tour of the Regional Petroleum Office in Chaucer
Road, Cambridge was that stories of endless delay and general chaos in dealing with
applications for petrol coupons are quite
unfounded. I went into the hut in the garden where the coupons are prepared for
despatch - an envy-evoking
sight for petrol-thirsty motorists. A score of men were counting, rubber stamping
and recording the issue of hundreds of coupons of all kinds. Each one deals with
between 150 and 200 applications at day; the quickest worker in the room, a woman,
has dealt with 300 a day, She seemed to stamp coupons almost as quickly as you can
flick over the pages of a book

1922
The question of whether dustmen should smoke arose at the meeting of Cambridge Town
Council. It had been suggested that the men should be allowed to smoke on duty but
the men in many cases had to go through the rooms of houses and the Committee felt
that if they granted permission to the dustmen to smoke the other employees of the
Highways Department would consider that they should also smoke. Councillor Few
remarked the dustmen rarely went through the houses. In Romsey Town, unless the
householders put their receptacles in a queue in the road they were never
collected. Councillor Lunn: "The men do smoke in any case, so you might as well
realise it as shut your eyes to it"

1897
Cambridge Market Committee recommended that a new form of market stall known as the
"Diamond Stall" be erected on Market Hill. Mr Nichols remarked that the long vexed
question of covering inthe market was the objection to a permanent structure being
erected on Market Hill. They were paying now £850 per year for putting up and
taking down all those wretched stalls and their repairs. At some length he
described the advantages to the town that the scehem would bring about, amid some
manifestations of impatientce on the part of the Council

THURSDAY
11th December
1972
An estimated 2,000 people turned up for the first day's trading at the Marcade,
Cambridge's first indoor
market. The Marcade is the brainchild of two city businessmen, one of whom said
"We have spoken to every trader today and most of them have said they have taken as
much in five hours todays as they usually take in a week" There are 48 stands in
the market, which is in the old Eastern Electricity buildings in East Road and they
hope to have a total of 100 by January. "The whole idea is to make it a good market
where someone can buy anything at competitive prices and of good quality". They
were aiming at at market where a customer could buy everything from a kitchen sink
to a fur coat, said Mr Smith

1947
Separated from their own families on St Nicholas Day which in Poland, being the day
of the patron saint of
children, is celebrated with childrens' parties, the 200 Poles at the Agricultural
camp at Cherry Hinton did the next best thing . They gave a Christmas party for
English children, entertaining about 75 youngsters fro
the village at their hostel in Walpole Road. The Poles, who have been doing
agricultural work since they were demobilised about six months ago, gave up their
sweet ration for two weeks and part of their special
Christmas allowance to provide the tea. During the meal the kiddies were
entertained with lively Polish folk
songs, played on two accordions and to Polish carols sung by the newly formed
hostel choir

1922
The urgent need for carrying out schemes of public importance in order to relieve
the unemployment
situation in the Borough were admitted on all hands at the meeting of the Cambridge
Town Council. During the past two years they had been endeavouring as far as
possible each winter to find work for those men who
unfortunately were out of employ. Last year they were able to place 200 men on the
Sewage Farm. That work had nearly come to a close. It was stated that there were
800 men out of work in the Borough which was an increase of nearly 100 over last
year. Suggestions for further work included underground lavatories at the junction
of Victoria Road, Chesterton Road and Milton Road, a bridge across the Cam at the
bottom of Walnut Tree Avenue and a recreation ground on the Rock Estate

1897
Cambridge Fire Brigade Committee require an engine room large enough for a steamer,
hose cart, ladder cart and horizontal escape, temporary cover for present
perpendicular escape, watch room to include sleeping accommodation for two men, and
muster room to accommodate a meeting of 30 men.

FRIDAY
12th December
1972
The death of 12 people on the three-lane A604 between Fenstanton and Cambridge
brought protests from members of Mid-Anglia police authority. The chief constable,
Mr F. Drayton Porter said "The sooner that road is made a dual carriageway the
better. The police strongly object to three-lane roads. The A604 quite frankly has
reached saturation point". The Department of the Environment had already been
pressed to make the road into a dual carriageway but they wouldn't hear of it

1947
An Exning painter was committed for trial at Newmarket alleged to have written to
the Clerk of the Newmarket Urban District Council stating: "If I don't succeed in
getting one of the next houses on Heath Site I will promise you a bullet from a
German pistol". Accused wrote "I hope this will not happen, because it is not a
threat but a promise, which I shall fulfill even if I have to swing for you.I have
waited long enough for a house and now I shall wait for my revenge. I will promise
to shoot and kill, so get Detective-Constable Riddlesford as a bodyguard in the
near future, and he will also get it. Hoping to get a house in the near future -
Yours Mr Hopeful". The letter was written in red ink and posted locally

1922
The Cambridge & District Wireless Society had a "full house" at their demonstration
on broadcasting. Mr T.
Robinson, manager of Pye's Scientific Instrument Co. had very kindly consented to
demonstrate their latest
broadcast receiver of five valves attached to which was a Magnavox loud-speaking
telephone. Mr Robinson tuned up for the London broadcasting station and amongst the
items heard were Mr Vivian Foster, known to Cambridge theatre-goers as the "vicar
of mirth" who entertained the audience by his witty sayings. During the evening the
Birmingham and Manchester broadcasting stations were also received. The latest
news, billiard scores, market reports and latest weather report were items among a
very varied programme

1897
A tailor of Cherry Hinton had a sad tale to relate to the Borough Coroner at the
inquest held on the body of
his five-year-old son.. On the evening of 26th November he heard the child
screaming and found him sitting on his aunt's knee with one of his fingers crushed.
The child had managed to put his finger in between the
rollers of the mangle and one finger was badly crushed. She had to reverse the
rollers to get it out. The boy
was treated at hospital but then showed signs of tetanus, grew rapidly worse and
died.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
December 15th
1972
Ely may find itself heading downhill during the next 10 years unless central and
local government come to the rescue, warns a report out today. Ely and the
surrounding Fenland villages are among 16 "problem"
rural areas listed in the Small Towns Study commissioned by the East Anglia
Economic Planning Council. The report says the district is suffering; as
agriculture becomes more mechanised there is a steady drift from the land but the
influx of industry is insufficient to compensate. The result is a general rundown
of the market towns and surrounding villages with fewer jobs, fewer services and
fewer inducements to stay. The report urges inducements to industry to establish
more factories in rural East Anglia

1947
Five men with less that 12 month's service have left the Cambridgeshire Police
Force in consequence of there being no houses available. At the present time there
are 12 married constables who are without houses. No police houses have been build
in the county since the cessation of hostilities; one is in course of erection at
Gamlingay but there is no definite indication as to when it will be completed. The
Acting Chief Constable said: "If various parishes cannot have a constable because
they have no house we must make a very strong point of getting first priority for
police homes"

1922
A satisfactory state of affairs was reported at the annual meeting of the Cambridge
Home of Mercy. During
the year the Home had been full. 16 girls were admitted, 12 were sent out to
service and outfits were provided. One was sent to a stricter home, one to a
sanitorium and two to be certified as mentally
defective. Four girls had been married. Letters from old girls in service showed
that many are doing
remarkably well.

1897
In view of the approach of the Christmas season, and in order to assist our readers
in their shopping we today give the first of our notices of the special attractions
and goods which are to be found in the
Cambridge shops. Every family, however unmusical at other seasons of the year,
burst forth into song as
Christmas Day approaches. Music for every taste can be bought at Mr Miller's
warehouse, Sidney Street. Pianos and all instruments of the best makes are ready
for purchase or hire

TUESDAY
December 16th
1972
East Anglia has the lowest overall average earnings of all the regions of Britain.
Of the counties in the
region Cambridgeshire and Isle of Ely top the earnings league with an average
£1,130 per worker - well ahead of lowest paid Norfolk with £1,080 per worker. Half
the men over 21 earn less than 60p an hour; half the women less than 40p an hour.
In fact in return for 45.9 hours work a week East Anglian men averaged an hourly
income of 62.53p. The typical East Anglian budget includes Housing £3.02, food
£6.74, tobacco £1.23, clothing £1.81

1947
The Christmas present hunt is now well on, and I wish you luck in your shopping. I
made a tour of the local
stores on Saturday and found them crowded with harassed shoppers doing their best
in these difficult times. The problem does not appear to get much easier, and with
many articles getting increasingly dearer, there does not seem to be a great deal
one can buy which is either within the reach of one's pocket, or not needing
coupons. One thing I particularly noticed were several queues which added to the
congestion of the already crowded streets. Some must surely be unnecessary, and it
does seem that the public are largely at fault in having become so queue minded
during the past year for fear of missing something

1922
As the result of negotiation the bulk of the Ely barracks has been acquired by Ely
Urban District
Council for the sum of £2,750. The property comprises three cottages in Silver
street, eight cottages in
Parade-lane, Surveyor's office, stables, post mortem room and mortuary, armoury,
Quartermasters Stores,
adjudant's house, parade ground and drill shed.

1897
Round the Cambridge shops. Bright within and bright without is Mr Otto Wehrle's
jewellery shop in Regent-
street. Mr Wehrle offers ladies' silver watches with silver chains at 12s.6d. An
especially commendable
present is a solid silver afternoon tea set offer at £4.10.0. As a special
Christmas offer Mr Wehrle will
present every purchaser of 5s. and upwards with a useful gift to the value of
1s.6d. A goodly selection
of Christmas presents are on view at Mr G.W. Morley's Exchange and Mart, Mill-road.
Broaches, bangles and button-hooks of every shape and size, and at every prize,
meet the eyes of the generous purchaser, and
everyone may be sure of getting something suitable for the most difficult to please

WEDNESDAY
December 17th
1972
The last five plots of the old Cambridge to Bedford railway were sold yesterday for
a total of £137,250.
The line was once the link between Cambridge and Bedford but those days went when
Beeching axed the
route. Since then British Rail have taken up the rails, and sold the land on which
they stood to neighbouring
farmers. Yesterday four of the stations and their accompanying yards came under the
auctioneers hammer.
The last plot was the Old North Road station at Longstowe. The buyer who paid
£23,000 for it said he had no idea what would be done with the 1.25 acres site and
the station house, booking office, waiting rooms and goods shed

1947
Arranged by the Board of Extra Mural Studies the first of a series of lectures was
given by the Mayor in the
Guildhall. In a new venture organised to give German prisoners of war a wide,
varied and accurate picture of English community life in Cambridge. Twentyfive
representative English speaking PoWs from Trumpington camp attended the meeting.
The lectures will include talks on the working conditions of a factory and on the
administration of the Post Office

1922
"A band of brothers - knights of the road" was the title applied to commercial
travellers at the annual
dinner of the Cambridge branch of the United Kingdom Commercial Travellers'
Association, held at the Lion Hotel. The speaker said that in Cambridge they had
some of the finest shops they could find in the provinces. He believed the great
percentage of them were healthy, sound businesses and a great many of those present
could say that in Cambridge there were fewer bad debts than in other towns they
visited.

1897
At the Cambridge Wanderers Cycle club annual dinner Mr G. Edwards, the Captain,
said he did not say all
cyclists were angels, because they were not. There were men who went tearing about,
whistling down the street, ringing their bells and expecting to have the whole
street cleared for them. There was another class who went for a ride in the country
and had a sort of liking for riding on the path. Had the chief constable put a
constable in the road in proper uniform no one would have complained. But he had to
go and put a man in
plain clothes to capture the people. The speaker was sure that the chief constable
had a rise in his salary for the smart capture of cyclists

THURSDAY
December 18th
1972
Its not every day that you meet the Minister for Education. So its a bit
embarrassing to do so when your
hands are covered in sticky modelling clay. But that's what the children of
Haddenham playgroup did on
Saturday. And the Minister, Mrs Margaret Thatcher loved it. She sat down and joined
in their activities. She was there to open their new extensions, built on to the
vicarage. Mrs Thatcher said: "This is a marvellous example of what can be achieved
from basic beginnings". The group were formed four years ago. Today 39 children
attend and are looked after by the vicar's wife, the Honourable Mrs Margaret Fox
and a group of 20 adult helpers

1947
PC. Reginald Williams told Linton Magistrates Court that he was in the patrol car
at Sawston church telephone kiosk at 10.50pm when he heard the sound of a motor
cycle approaching round the bend at a very fast speed. Witness stood in the road
where he could see sparks coming from the rear of the machine. Defendant eased
speed but could not stop and continued down the road for a further 100 yards. Told
the estimated speed of his machine he replied "I reckon we were doing 90 mph.
around those bends, but put down 200 mph. I will take the record then". Defendant
was fined £2 with endorsement

1922
Sir Horace and Lady Darwin opened the splendid new playroom built by Mr C. W.
Shinkfield and the boys at the Littleton House School, Girton. This room, which has
been erected in the garden, takes the form of a
timbered hut. The stove, flooring, electric lights and decorating have been set up
and carried out by Mr Shinkfield and the boys.

1897
Sir - The fearful state of the Chesterton roads at the present time calls for
comment: they are worse than
ever. Trees have lately been inserted on either side of this avenue of mud & slime.
Omnibuses are running to
and fro daily that are a credit to any town, especially are the horses in splendid
form ready to take you from
Chesterton church to the Cambridge station for twopence! The wear and tear on such
roads must be very great. How very surprised people seem to be now-a-days that
Victoria Bridge should have been opposed by some people. But the hour has struck
when the necessity for another bridge is of equal importance. The folk at Old
Chesterton, all employed in Cambridge, have to cross the classic stream either by
grind or punt. The sooner both councils wake up to their duty in the matter of this
great necessity, the better for people on both
sides of the river - "Chestertonian"

FRIDAY
December 19th
1972
Snowy Farr, the self-styled King of the Road, who has raised more than £1,400 for
the blind in two years, has been priced off the road with the tractor that tows his
mobile menagerie. Since Snowy bought the tractor two years ago to replace the
tricycle he had used previously he has driven it on a £5 a year concessionary
licence. But now he has been told that he must have a general haulage tractor
licence which costs £60 and he says he hasn't got the money. Snowy first became
famous when the cart he used for his work as a roadman around Oakington began to
take on a very individual appearance as he added to its basic shape. He then
started to take his pet animals with him. Someone suggested he should raise money
for charity because so many people gathered to see his mobile show wherever he
went.

1947
The mustard gas bomb train fire at Six Mile Bottom last July had a sequel on
Thursday when two L.N.E.R. drivers, Frederick Smart and William Thorburn, and two
firemen, Joseph Westland and Alfred Chandler, all of Cambridge, were presented with
the L.N.E.R. Medal. A special goods train included 40 open wagons of mustard gas
bombs. When passing Six-Mile-Bottom driver Smart observed a fire in the third
wagon. Fireman Chandler jumped down immediately and uncoupled the burning wagon
from the rear part of the train. The engine then proceeded forward for 50 yards.
The engineers tried to subdue the fire with buckets of
water, fully aware of the dangerous nature of the contents of the wagon.

1922
Christmas in the shops. Messrs E.T. Saint & co., the well-known automobile
engineers of the Hyde Park
Corner Garage, Cambridge, are proud of the facts that as agents for the "Sirrah"
motor cycle they are able
to place within the reach of the Cambridge public a real motor cycle at a cost of
25 guineas. In the way of cars their agencies include the popular 10 h.p. Swift 4-
seater at £275

1897
There is no more handsome piece of furniture in a house than a pianoforte. Thanks
to keen competition
the prices generally are but little more than those of 10 years ago and today
pianofortes are within reach of
the majority of working men. But if you feel you cannot afford a new one, go to 14,
Mill Road,
Cambridge, where Mr H. Leavis conducts his business and get a second-hand one. He
keeps organs and
harmoniums in stock at as low a figure as £3, and you can obtain a capital
pianoforte for the moderate
outlay of £5

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
December 22nd
The £2 million De Vere hotel building project at Mount Pleasant - Huntingdon Road
corner in Cambridge has been given final clearance by the Cambridgeshire planners.
The drawings of the proposed 200-bedroom
hotel - the largest in East Anglia were given approval privately this week by the
city planning department.
Last month the Environment Minister gave approval to the project. The De Vere hotel
saga has dragged on for more than four years during which time it has occupied two
major public inquiries and has been the subject of a High Court hearing

1947
Those perpetual news-makers, the Women's Voluntary Service, have again hit the
headlines by virtue of
having been the first organisation in Cambridge to give a Christmas party for a
gathering of old people.
Although still in its youth - being only six weeks old - the Chesterton Over-60s
Club already has over a
hundred members, practically all of whom were present at the party held in St
Andrew's Church Hall. Mrs
Clark, a well-known inhabitant of Chesterton said this party was "one of the most
wonderful things that has
ever happened in the village"
1922
There are at present four schools in Burwell and as from January the needs of
elementary education will be
served by three. Burwell Parochial (Boys) School will be closed with a consequent
annual saving of
approximately £500. An important part of the curriculum will be practical
instruction in woodwork, cookery and laundry work. At the present moment this
instruction is carried out at a room in the "Five Bells" but it is desirable
instruction should be available on the school premises and not in a building half a
mile away

1897
Cambridge Omnibus Company were sued for damages sustained in an accident of
September 25th in Emmanuel Lane, Cambridge. The omnibus in question was licenced to
carry 12 passengers inside and 14 outside. On the day in point there were no less
than 23 outside, an excessive weight of more than half a ton and in consequence the
vehicle swayed. In Emmanuel Lane there was a cart standing on the left side of the
road causing the 'bus to move to the right when the hind off-wheel of the omnibus
went sharply against the kerb and immediately collapsed like a pack of cards and
all those unfortunate passengers were thrown to the
ground. Some of the passengers were shot into a solicitor's office

TUESDAY
December 23rd
1972
An acute shortage of bricklayers is putting up the cost of new houses in mid-
Anglia. This is in addition
to the rise in prices caused by the building workers' autumn pay increase. The
demand for new building since the end of the builders' strike has produced an even
greater crisis. One Cambridge building contractor
said: "Six months ago bricklayers were getting about £16 per thousand bricks laid.
Now they get about £24
and for some work up to £30

1947
Children are prohibited from doing any agricultural work involving heavy strain,
particularly from sugar
beet lifting and from any farm work under a gangmaster under draft employment
byelaws approved by
Cambridgeshire Education Committee. No child may be employed under the age of 13,
or on schoooldays except between 5 and 7pm. On Saturdays and school holidays the
maximum working period is five hours between 7am and 7pm. The maximum period of
work in a week when schols are not open is now 25 hours instead of 30. There was
discussion on a clause which lays down that no child shall be employed for more
than two hours on a Sunday

1922
The casual spectator dropping in at the Service Buildings, Eden Street, Cambridge
might well believe
he had found the headquarters of toy-land. It is here that the work of packing and
distributing the toys
sent in connection with the Children's Toy Fund is taking place with a busy hive of
workers, largely
composed of Boy Scouts and Girl Guides engaged in carrying out these duties. For
the guidance of the
packers a blackboard announces the fact that each parcel should contain two
oranges, one apple, one bag of nuts, one bag of sweets, one bon-bon, two large and
one small toy. Besides this each child was to receive a book or picture paper, and
chocolates were to be given to babies

1897
A laundress of Gloucester Street, Cambridge, was charged at the Borough Court with
keeping a woman at
work for more than 14 hours. Annie Sindell said she commenced work at 9.30 am
Friday and worked until ten past six the next morning. She had an hour and a
quarter for meals. The day was supposed to be of 12
hours, less meal times, and for that they got 1s.3d. She never agreed to work all
night but the laundress
would have the work done. She earned 7s.6d. for the whole week. The overtime pay
was a penny an hour. The laundress was fined 7s.6. and costs

WEDNESDAY
December 24th
1972
An electronic design team lead by a Wendens Ambo man have produced a miniature
power supply unit which could revolutionise whole fields of electrical equipment.
Now with this single vital piece of equipment greatly reduced in size, the desk top
computer becomes a reality. What Malcolm Murchall and his team of four engineers at
Advance Industrial Electronics have done is cut down the size of the normal power
supply unit to one-eighth of its present size. Already a number of large orders
have been received with Japan, Australia and Canada all showing a strong interest
in the new device

1947
Sir - Prams! Prams! Prams! Christmas comes but once a year but when it does it
brings with it a perfect army of prams. One is "bulldozed" on all sides in the
streets and, worst of all in shops, but there is a
very simple remedy. Why not a pram park run by the Borough Police Force and
attended by a trained nurse,
at no fee, or only a nominal one. Let our slogan be "Prohibition of pram population
in public places pending Epiphany" - "Bruised Buyer"

1922
"Christmas comes but once a year, but when it comes it brings good cheer".
Subscribers to the Unemployed
Christmas Fund, had they paid a visit to the Labour Exchange, Regent-street,
Cambridge, could have had no
doubt that the Christmas message they have sent out to the Cambridge unemployed
will bring gladness and some measure of seasonable cheer to many homes which would
otherwise be devoid of it. Each man received a 5s. voucher for himself, a similar
one in respect of his wife and a half-crown voucher in respect of each child. The
vouchers were available for the purchase of coal, bread, meat, milk or provisions.
There were also special pink vouchers in respect of kindly offers by tradesmen to
supply groceries, meat, flour etc. up to a given amount . One man was given
vouchers for himself and seven children.

1897
The Park-street Higher Grade School, Cambridge, entertainment and prize
distribution took place in the
Guildhall. The chief feature of the entertainment was the performance of the
cantata "Snow White and the
Seven Dwarfs" by teachers and children at the school. Miss Flora Mathers was
excellent as the Princess,
supported by Miss Birdie Heath as the Queen Mother, Miss Eva Dovey as the Prince
and Miss Ethel Barnsdale as Carl the Huntsman. Besides these characters there were
the seven dwarfs, three flowers and two choruses, and with all working well
together the cantata was delightfully rendered

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
December 29th
1972
Flu hit the now-traditional barrel-rolling relay race at Grantchester on Boxing Day
and a cool drizzle
resulted in fewer than usual spectators turning out for the event. But neither the
practical difficulties nor the celebrations of the previous day prevented a team
from nearby Barton romping home minutes ahead of their rivals to carry off the 48-
pint prize. Their nearest rivals were a team from the Queen's Head at Sawston.
Women made their debut last year but illness had depleted entries down to one team
- from the Green Dragon in Cambridge so the four women agreed to divide into two
team and Mrs Tricia Newman and Mrs Ann Carter won the day. Their prize was 48 pints

1947
Christmas Day in Cambridge was, on the whole, a family affair. Throughout the day
the streets were
practically devoid of any human activity, except for occasional little parties of
people - having to use
"shank's pony" in the absence of the buses - on their way to visit friends, with
those mysterious and
exciting little parcels under their arms. Although this is reputed to be an
austerity Christmas the majority of institutions, homes and hospitals in the town
had a sumptuous dinner of turkey, Christmas pudding, mincepies etc, and judging
from reminiscences today, a good many people had the same

1922
Windy, showery and in every way uncongenial weather fell to the lot of Cambridge on
Christmas Day. No
matter how hard the wind blew or how hard the rain beat down it was impossible to
mar the festive season, for those who wished to stay at home did so and felt all
the snugger. In the early part of the day there
was a wonderful amount of traffic on the main roads leading from the town, tending
to show that the stay-
at-home Christmas is no so popular as it is sometimes supposed to be. Few outside
attractions were attempted on Christmas Day, but in the realm of sport much
interest was shown in the visit to the town of the Racing Club de Paris, who met
the Town Football Club before a crowd approaching 4,000. Those wishing to see a
football match further afield had the opportunity of doing so, for the G.E.R. ran
an excursion train to Tottenham

1897
The festive season was, as usual, made as bright as possible for the inmates of the
Newmarket Workhouse. The regulation meals were replaced for the day by an abundance
of seasonable fare. During the morning there was a distribution of gifts, including
tobacco and snuff for the old folks, packets of tea with 3d.
pieces, and sugar for the women, apples, oranges and sweets for the children. The
inmates were granted
freedom for social intercourse and in the afternoon the Master's organette was
brought into requisition for their amusement

TUESDAY
30th December
1972
Fen Ditton will die is Cambridge City Council go ahead with their plans for a
1,000-home estate in the
village, says the parish Rector, the Rev Raymond Harrison. Writing in the parish
magazine he says that with an estate of almost 1,000 homes in the village the
population would increase by nearly 4,000 people. "This plan is not for some
distant future, but in three or four years time when the city fathers allege they
will have no more building land in the city area. Clearly the whole character of
Ditton will be altered if this pernicious
plan is put into operation". The city council are continuing their efforts to get
planning permission to develop an 80-acre site in the village, and another at
Trumpington

1947
Mrs E.H. Galsworthy has established a reputation as a photographer under the
professional (and maiden) name of Miss Olive Edis. She started taking photographs
41 years ago and has no less than 35,000 ordinary
negatives stored away. Mrs Galsworthy has specialised in colour work, using Lumiere
plates and her collection must be almost unique for it comprises a cross section of
some of the most notable men and
women of the last generation. There are a number of Cambridge personalities, many
of whom were personally known to her for Cambridge is what she calls her "third
home". They include Lord Rutherford, Sir J.J. Thomson and Dr M.R. James (Provost of
Kings). Connections with the town date back to her early days and before her
marriage she held annual exhibitions of her work in St Columba's Hall, St Andrew's
Street

1922
If a crowd of supremely happy kiddies be a cure for the "blues" anyone suffering
that way would have done
well to visit the Central School, Cambridge, when a further party of the 3,000 poor
and needy children
were given tea, a sight of the Mayor in his red robes, four pantomime horses, and a
really good entertainment. The noise - well it is really indescribable. Any
policemen directing strangers to the schools need only have said "Hear that noise?
Well that's it". Two of the young ladies appearing in the pantomime "Cinderella" at
the New Theatre kindly volunteered their services for the tea and following them
came the four little ponies which draw Cinderella's coach to the ball

1897
It is a striking proof of the charitable feeling which exists at Christmas that the
inmates of the workhouses
throughout the land receive so much attention during the festive season. At
Cambridge, the institution so
excellently superintended by Mr Luke Hosegood, is quite as fortunate as any other
and the last few days
have, doubtless, been the brightest that the inmates of "the house" have known for
the last 12 months

WEDNESDAY
31st December
1972
So many patients are being infected by bacteria after operations at Old
Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge,
that £15,000 is to be spent on renovating the operating theatres. Surgeons have
expressed their concern over the number of infections and have asked the hospital
board for a policy to be laid down to control it. Their request comes only 10
months after the Chief Nursing Officer publicly declared "No risk is involved in
the old building which has well stood the test of time". That statement came only a
few days after two theatre sisters resigned over hospital practices which they
considered gave rise to an unacceptable infection risk to patients undergoing
surgery at Old Addenbrooke's

1947
Householders are not the only sufferers from domestic problems - the colleges have
them too. Girton College has just been advertising for a senior cook to start this
month, to replace one who has just left after
only a term's service. I am given to understand that the College authorities are
not over optimistic about getting one who will stay longer. The senior cooks face
the same problem of all housewives - that of
difficulty in getting enough variety to please women students out of present
rations. Some take the job
mainly to gain experience before applying for more lucrative posts elsewhere. The
junior cooks, too,
don't stay the course for long - the most senior of those now at Girton has only
been there for three terms

1922
If you want to pay a visit to Fairyland, and you doubtless do whatever your age,
pay a visit to the A.D.C. Theatre, Cambridge, where you can spend an afternoon or
evening in the land of Make-believe. Mrs Pearl Lambeth's annual productions are
always eagerly looked forward to and we have never been disappointed.
This year there are two fairy pantomimes, "The Magic Horse Shoe" and "The Making of
a Snow Queen"

1897
The Tenison Road Chapel was opened for divine service this morning in the presence
of a large congregation. The chapel has been built to take the place of the Hope
Chapel in Paradise Street. It was in 1861 that the Hope Chapel was built, and for
many years there was no pastor. Since 1892 the number of worshippers has increased
to such an extent that the need of a larger building was felt for some time. The
new building has been constructed to seat ultimately 335 persons, but at present a
portion has been partitioned off to serve as a class-room.

THURSDAY
1st January
1973
Thriplow's three-quarters-of-an-acre recreation ground is up for sale - by order of
the village. At the weekend a village referendum came out, by 5 votes to 40, in
favour of the sale. Now all that is needed is the approval of the Department of
Education and Science who have indicated that if two-thirds of the sale price -
expected to be £15,000 - is used for building a new village hall, the rest can be
used for establishing a
new recreation ground. At present a first world war hut is all that the village has
in the way of a community hall

1947
In the New Years Honours List published today four names of local interest are
noted. Professor Frederick
Bartlett, Professor of Experimental Pathology at Cambridge University, Mr J.D.
Cockcroft, who was closely
associated with atomic research carried on at Cambridge under the late Lord
Rutherford and Dr Richard Vyne Smith become Knights Bachelor. Mr W.E. Doran, Chief
Engineer of the Great Ouse Catchment Board has been awarded the O.B.E. He was
responsible for much of the work carried out during the floods and has also been
concerned in the preparation of the Board's new flood protection scheme

1922
For most people the practice of watching the Old Year out and the New Year in has
considerable attraction.
It had that attraction for some 700 people when Mr Arthur Deck revived the ancient
custom of letting off one rocket for the departing year and one for the New Year.
For the first time since 1913-14 when the War
put a stop to the practice has the New Year been welcomed in Cambridge in this way.
The proceedings were not marked with that liveliness that some of us remembered was
evinced on previous occasions, but still the interest taken speaks well for the
continuation of the custom. The firing of rockets was started in 1820 by Mr Deck's
grandfather

1897
Shortly before the clock of Great St Mary’s with deep-toned impressiveness
proclaimed the exit of 1897 and
the advent of 1898 King's Parade was thronged with people awaiting the fiery
messengers sent up year
after year by Ald Beck. We have a shrewd suspicion that the unusual sight of
letting off rockets at midnight attracted the bulk of the people who visited King's
Parade last night. "Beer, beer, glorious beer" chorused a lively portion of the
crowd. Precisely upon the stroke of 12 there was a swish and roar in front of the
portals of King's and the first rocket soared aloft proclaiming abroad the
significant fact that the old year was out. A second rocket heralded in the new
year, and after some slight ebullition of feeling and a feeble attempt at "Aud lang
syne" the crowds dispersed, and the streets resumed their normal state

FRIDAY
2nd January 1973
The people of Stow-cum-Quy will be fully consulted before a decision is taken to
close the village school, members of the County Education Committee said today. A
petition signed by almost the adult population of Quy was presented before their
meeting today. The document voiced the residents' opposition to suggestions that
the school at Quy, which serves only 30 children, may have to be closed because it
is grossly "substandard"

1947
The question of providing week end leave transport for personnel at the RAF
Station, Oakington, evoked a
good deal of discussion at the sitting of the Eastern Area Traffic Commissioners.
Mr Lainson (for Premier
Travel) mentioned that his company sought to provide a new express service from
Oakington RAF to King's
Cross, London. The proposed fare was 12s.6d return. He also said they were willing
to provide a "feeder"
service between Oakington and Cambridge Railway Station as his company could not
hope to carry 600 odd personnel direct to London. There were approximately 1,100
personnel on the camp and something like 600 were on weekends each week. In view of
the limited station transport it was impossible to cater for all the troops by
running into Cambridge Railway Station

1922
A "Cat Lover" writes asking me to draw attention to the fact that the almost annual
outbreak of poisoning
of cats is occuring in the neighbourhood of Mill Road, Cambridge. For some years
past at this period of the year many domestic pets have been lost in the district
in this way, and he suggests it is time the perpetrators of these outrages was
detected and punished. Of course to some people "pussy" is anathema, but so are
crowing crocks, cackling hens and seed-consuming pigeons to oters and we have to
learen to bear and forbear. Owners of cats will do well to take warning from this
notice and seep a watch on their pets

1897
At St Ives Rural District Council meeting the clerk reported what had been done in
respect of the pump at
Fenstanton. Mr Odams said a capital job had been made of it and the water was now
excellent. He knew the
water would come right if properly seen to. That pump had supplied water for the
village of 100 years,
notwithstanding its proximity to the pond. It had always been pure water until a
post was placed into the wall of the well. The water was now perfectly pure

1998 stories

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
5th January
1973
A message o sympathy to the victims of American bombing in the North Vietnamese
cities of Hanoi and
Haiphong may be sent by Cambridge City Council following a move last night by
Labour councillors.
The group have drafted a special motion to be submitted to the council at their
next meeting. It expresses "anger and horror" at the bombardment of civilian
targets by the American forces

1948
Six Stretham villagers made a B.B.C. recording yesterday to tell radio news
audiences of the feat of their
Village Produce Association in "exporting" to outside markets from spare-time
allotments more surplus produce than any similar association in the country. No
less than £600 worth of fruit and vegetables went out from the acres of Stretham
allotments and village gardens to markets in Leeds, Manchester and London in 1946.
Standing in the wooden- hut Social Club in the village, behind an exhibit of
produce grown by members of the Association H.C. Holiday spoke into the microphone
with a long lead coming through the window from the compact recording apparatus
housed in an ordinary large-type saloon car which stood in the road outside

1923
The Rendezvous was the scene of a most enjoyable function when about 60 members of
the staff and friends
of the Central Cinema in Hobson street, Cambridge, were entertained to a supper
dance by the directors of the Cinema. The proceedings commenced at 11 o'clock with
a supper. Mr L.A. Boulter (Wardour Film Co) said he considered the Central Cinema
one of the best equipped cinemas in the Eastern Counties. The company then
adjourned to the dance hall for dancing and games which were kept up until 4.30 on
Wednesday morning

1897
On Sunday last the inhabitants of Castle End, Cambridge, were surprised by a
violent explosion, and were anxiously searching for its whereabouts. It was noticed
that at the time of the explosion the grating over a manhole in the street was
lifted up several inches. The explosion was, undoubtedly, in the sewer. It is said
that there has been an objectionable smell of coal gas in the neighbourhood, so a
leakage many have taken place into the sewer. Cambridge people will soon begin to
regard the sewers as something more than a nuisance - a positive danger - and
expect the streets to be upheaved as by a subterranean mine.
TUESDAY
6th January
1973
The rising price of beef is already being felt in Cambridge shops, but at least one
supermarket are keeping the price down to 94p a lb for home-produced rump steak.
Butchers will be doing all they can to help housewives pick the best buys of
"Common Market" meat prices. Argentine rump steaks are around 65p a lb
compared with 95p for English, with topside at 45p against English topside at 60p a
lb. Roger Purvey, the Tesco manager thought that prices had to ease off. "People
are buying more lamb instead of beef"

1947
Filmgoers who have seen Miss Isobel Elsom, Cambridge's own star of stage and
screen, in a number of films
here, might perhaps have seen her in person in the streets of Cambridge as she is
here for the first time in about 12 years on a visit to her parents. Many readers
will know Miss Elsom as the daughter of the well-known local singer of former
years, Jos Reed. Before going on the professional stage the actress joined local
amateur dramatic societies including the Bijou Amateur Dramatic Club. She was one
of the first English actresses to appear in silent films. One of her films recently
shown at the Regal Cinema was the Humphrey Bogart picture "The Two Mrs Carrols"

1923
Mr Francis told Chesterton Board of Guardians that Oakington was supplied with
water from a well on
Queens' College Farm. There was an agreement between the trustees of Marsh's
Charity and the Council for the pipe to pass through the land. The agreement
terminated in 1922 and the Council had been given notice to terminate the agreement
which would mean that the whole water supply of the village would be cut off. This
would lead to the installation of a new well as the expense of the parish. The
Clerk said he thought it was only a matter of rent

1897
For some time it has been known that Mr H.J. Whitehead, the venerable treasurer to
the borough, was in ill
health, so that the news of his decease was hardly a surprise. The general regret
is, however, none the
less, and the patriarchal figure of the deceased gentleman will be greatly missed
in public circles. Mr Whitehead was in his 69th year. As far back as November 1869
he was appointed treasurer to the borough of
Cambridge and in November 1889 he obtained a like appointment to the Urban Sanitary
Authority, holding the two offices till his death

WEDNESDAY
7th January
Haverhill must go on expanding until it reaches the 30,000 population envisaged in
the town plan by 1980 - even if it means taking up more agricultural land, the
chairman of the East of England Economic Planning
Council, Lord Walston, said at the council meeting. A very large problem would
arise in 10 years time because the population brought into the town so far had been
very young and in 10 years time there would be a large amount of school leavers
looking for jobs, Lord Walston said. If jobs were not available because Haverhill
had not expanded then it would go from being a very young town to an old one,
because all the youth would leave to find jobs elsewhere

1947
As the Mayoress of Cambridge (Mrs Hickson is the mother of three children) it was
very natural that she should take a particular interest in the maternity services
at the County Hospital in Mill Road when she paid her Christmas visit there last
week. Mrs Hickson had a long talk with the matron (Mrs Ditchburn) who expressed
the view that both the young mother of today and her baby are in better condition
than she has ever known before. In spite of rationing and the hard times in which
we are living the modern woman approaches motherhood with far less apprehension
than in pre-war days. Matron pointed out that the extra milk, vitamin tablets and
orange juice help to replace the shortages due to rationing

1923
Before the criminal business was commenced at the County Quarter Sessions Sir
George Fordham said he
would like to call attention to the state of Newmarket Road on race days. The
danger to foot passengers was
acute and scandalous and they went in danger of their lives. Cars were driven at a
high speed and tried to pass one another. A case had come before the Royston bench
when a young man had been serious injured owing to a car suddenly coming out from
behind a large lorry. It was a great and growing evil and the Home Office should
consult as to some effective method of police supervision

1898
Perhaps outside London there is hardly a place in England where prompt attendance
at fires, constant vigilance and capable supervision are so urgently required as at
Newmarket. In the Jockey Club and
Trainers' Fire Brigade all these qualifications are obtained. The appliances are in
a most efficient state,
and the entire organisation a most admirable one. The Brigade is supported entirely
by the subscriptions of
trainers and other individuals at Newmarket interested in the protection from fire
of valuable horses,
training stables and other property

THURSDAY
8th January
Pye Telecommunications of Cambridge have opened a Middle East office to service
their expanding interest
in that part of the world. The office in Beirut, capital of Lebanon, opened for
business on Monday. Their director of International Marketing said "Pye
Telecommunications look upon the Middle East as a key territory in their
international operations and intend from these arrangement to provide an improved
service
for their existing and potential customers throughout the territory"

1948
Because it was stated that Newmarket R.A.F. station is closing down on Jan 31st two
applications to transport RAF weekend leave personnel from Newmarket to London
Victoria Coach Station were withdrawn at a sitting of the Eastern Area Traffic
Commissioners. The applicants were the Eastern Counties Omnibus Company and
Morley's Grey Coaches of Bury St Edmunds. As far as the London journey was
concerned road travel cost only 11s.9d as against the railway fare of 14s.7d

1923
The staff of the "Cambridge Daily News" had a night off on Saturday when they sat
down to dinner together in "The Dug-Out", Guildhall Street, Cambridge. It was the
first gathering of the kind for very many years. Mr A.C. Taylor (managing director)
said he had tried to carry on the good work that his father had done in the town.
He had the advantage of a loyal staff and he knew that on them depended the actual
work during the few years that he was trying to pick up the threads of newspapers.
Mr Morley Stuart (Editor) said some of the staff who had been working together for
a good many years and had passed through some rather strenuous times had felt it
would be a good thing if they could meet round the dinner table. It helped to rub
off the rough edges and to enable them to understand each other better.

1897
It may not be generally known that the General Medical Council have decided to
strike out of existence the
unqualified medical assistant, making it "infamous conduct" on the part of a
medical practitioner to employ an unqualified assistant. It seems somewhat harsh
and unjust to a class of worthy men who will be compelled to vacate positions they
have held for years. When it affects a popular and respected townsman like Mr E.A.
Morgan who has been associated with Messrs Balding and Archer of Royston for the
past 12 years it would not be surprising it arouses strong condemnation. By his
professional ability and unfailing courtesy and ready support Mr Morgan has drawn
around him a host of friends by whom he will be greatly missed.

FRIDAY
9th January
1973
It is a popular view that Arbury must be treated differently from Cambridge's other
outlying communities. Necklace village populations, it is argued, choose to settle
away from the heart of a town and are more likely
to create their own neighbourhood environments. The early Arbury settlers, on the
other hand, had little
choice. They were placed on an estate by circumstances over which they had little
control. Because Arbury was built as an appendage of Cambridge it lacks trade,
industry and recreation. And this has become a
particularly serious problem since 1960 with the emergence of young vigorous
families with a high proportion of active youngsters under the age of 15.
Everywhere is flat and featureless. There are no mounds
to run up, nor gradients to run down. It is mostly a flat maze of little dwellings
and concrete paths

1948
Cambridge Rotary Club will be helping to make history next Wednesday when, as
guests at "lunch" of Cambridge, Ohio, they will put in a Trans-Atlantic telephone
call to the other club 3,000 miles away, so there may be an opportunity of
expressing thanks on the spot. The Ohio Club meets at 12 noon at Hotel Berwick and
to coincide with this, our Cambridge club will sit down to lunch at five o'clock.
Most of the food has already arrived and with it printed menus which include such
delicacies are baked sugar cured
ham with June peas and spiced beets, and sliced Hawaiian pineapple. The two clubs
have long had close relations and this happy idea of our American namesakes will
strengthen the bonds.

1923
The social activities of the local postal employees are well known and their
efforts in this direction are
always marked by thoroughness. They do not forget the children, and more especially
do they remember the
children of those who went away from their midst in the dark days of the war and
did not come back. At the Post Office and Engineering Staff's Children's Party,
held in the Co-operative Hall, a number of these little orphans and their more
fortunate companions. with many others who were not too old to enjoy themselves,
had a right merry time.

1897
A special service was held at Girton church to celebrate the erection of a new
reredos and the completion of
other improvements in the chancel. The movement was begun early last year, when by
consequence of the damage done by damp to the hangings and carpets in the
sanctuary, it was decided to substitute for them
permament decorations embodied in the fabric, replacing the existing hangings by a
small oak reredos, paving the sanctuary with encaustic tiles and the placing of new
lamps in the sanctuary.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
12th January
1973
In the medical feidl a health centre is a social parallel to a village college. A
health centre provides a very wide range of services and facilities to its
"customers" all in one place. While Cambridgeshire was not aong the real pioneers
it has certainly joined the vanguard quickly. For it is now believed that there are
more general practictioners based in Cambridgeshire Health centres, as a
percentage, than anywhere else in the country. And this has all happened since the
first health centrein the county was opened at March in 1969. Sawston Littleport
and Whittlesey followed that year. Ely and Soham got similar centres in 1971, two
more at Bar Hill and Fulbourn are now being built for opening next spring

1947
Plans for the development of present-day Newmarket, with its population of 10,000
people - the majority of whom are dependent upon the racing industry - into a town
of 25,000 people with light industries to supplement the bloodstock and trining
business should remain entirely in the hands of Newmarket people and notoutsiders,
claim the Newmarket Urban Council. In 1946 the Newmarket U.D.C. issued an interim
report on the future planning of Newmarket that was widely acclaimed. Now a special
cub-sommittee of the West Suffok County Council have suggested that planning should
pass into the hands of an area committee consisting of 17 members – only three of
whom would be Nemarket councillors. The two councils are already at loggerheads on
the future of the town's dire and ambulanceservices

TUESDAY
13th January
1973

Pye of Cambridge Ltd have become the first company in the modern electronics
industry to be granted armorial bearings. They grant which has royal assent has
been made in recognitionn of the company's contribution to the nation. One reason
for Pye receiving this rare distinction was their role in designing and producing
equipment which helped to bring the Second World War to a close. They switched
their production ot inveting and making military euipment and by setting up a
village network of 14,000 people. They led the field in radio location, radar,
bombing aids, radio communications, and one of the first guided
missile devices

1948
Mr P. Porteous of the Cambridge University and Town Waterworks Company gavedetails
of the sources from which his company obtained their supplies and said each one was
approaching the limit of capacity of their present sources and were having to look
further afield. Cambridgeshire Councty Council were required to bear a substantial
proportion of the cost of these new works. He was concerned in regard to a
scheme to deepen certain dykes in the neighbourhood of Isleham where there would be
a great risk of depleting the innderground water in the source there. If the dyke
sin the fen were cut down low and into the edge of the chalk they would bleed out
allthe water in the upper reservoir and, as a result, there would be a very
difficult position at Isleham during the summer months

WEDNESDAY
14th January
1973
Willingham's new £7,700 recreation ground pavilion was opened on Saturday. The neww
brick- built pavilion replaces an old wooden one built in the 1920's. The new
building incorporates a main club-room, dressing rooms, showers and canteen
facilities. Chesterton Rural Councl have alos paid to have public conveniences
included in the rear

1948
The postman brought a surprise to Mrs M.B. Hille, Hemingford Road, Cambridge, when
he arrived at
the house with a parcel from Buckingham Palace. It wasone of the gifts of
foodstuffs sent to Princess Elizabeth from overseas, which she is distributing to
elderley people and widows. Inside was a simple, informal letter, on Buckingham
Palace notepaper in which the Princesssreferred to gifts of food received from
overseas at the time of her wedding. "I want to distribute it as best I can", the
letter continued, "and to share my good fortune with others. I therefore ask you to
accept this parcel with my best wishes". A number of tins of food inside included
chicken soup, "Prem", beans, coffee, cocoa, milk and chocolate pudding

THURSDAY
15th January
1973
Dale's old brewery in Gwydir Street, Cambridge, officially became the hoe of the
new International Centre when it was declared open last night - but for the time
being it will remain "dry" for it does not have a licence. Instead, the cavernous
rooms of the old brewery, which once echoed to the clatter of horses hooves
and the rattle of casks now hear the merry pop of Coca Cola cans and the chatter of
many tongues as foreign students find themselves somewheere to gather for the first
time in six years. The director of the new centre, Sudhir Agarwala, has established
and financed the new International Centre fromm his own pocket

1948
By telephone, landline and Tranatlantic radio beam the two Rotary Clubs of
Cambridge, England and Cambridge, Ohio last night strengthened still further the
great bonds of fellowship and friendship existing between them. The event took
place in the Oak Room of the Dorothy Cafe at 5pm to coincide in point of tiem with
the regular weekly luncheon of the Ohio club at 12 noon in the Pioneer Room of the
Hotel Berwick. Over ninety Rotarians sat down on this side of the Atlantic to eat
baked sugar cured ham, June peas, hot rolls and muffins, sliced Hawaiian pipeapple,
fruit cake and candy, with coffee and cigars also
included in the Ohio club's generous and welcome gift. On the table stood a
scarlet-cooured telephone. At 5.30 the 'phone bell rang, Post Office engineers in
the room - which had been fitted with amplifierr so that all present could hear the
speeches - manipulated their controls and President Emburey greeted President R.
Hartill of the Ohio Club over the Transatlantic phone

FRIDAY
16th January

1973
This year ciuld see the beginnnning of changes in the pattern of shopping for
people who live in Cambrdge and the surrouding areas. Plans have been put forward
to build several "out-of-town" shopping complexes and a public inquiry next week
will hear an appeal by J. Sainsbury Ltd against Cambridge City Council's refusal to
allow their "edge of-town" supermarket at Coldham's Lane. Last month the Council
turned down an application by Marshall to develop a 10-acre site on the Newmarket
Road as a shopping complex. A scheme by Brierley's to build a big drive-up shop on
a 3 1/2 acre site at Bar Hill with parking for several hundred cars was withdrawn

1948
An unusual kind of mannequin parade for a fashion house was staged by Mitcham's
last night when they held their annual social in the Oak Room of the Dorothy Cafe,
Cambridge. The hushed, espectant, awestruck atmosphere of the genuine fashion
parade was replaced by hilarious mirth as male members of the staff, suitably made
up, and looking the last word in grace and charm "modelled" the very latest styles
for the junior miss, schoolgirl, young matron and matron. Even lingerie was shown
in the form of a glamourous
housecoat. A delightful demonstration of the Rumba was given by Miss Valerie
Redfern who departed from the sublime to the ridiculous to give a demonstration
reminiscent of a well-known music hall act, of an Egyptian Sand Dance

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
19th January
1973
The Earl Haig fund was finally dropped from the list of Cambridge Rag charities
last night when the city council decided to let the students do as they like with
the money from their annual street collection. That means for the first time ever
this year the Royal British Legion's fund for ex-servicemen and their dependents
will get nothing from the proceeds of the annual February parade and collection
through the Cambridge city centre. Instead the money will go to five local
charities. The Earl Haig fund has benefited from the Cambridge Rag ever since it
came into being earlier this century. Until the mid-1960's the fund received all
the Rag proceeds, which sometimes amounted to as much as £12,000. But in recent
years their share has been cut to a third

1948
Often it happens that a visitor to Cambridge says : "Well there's the University;
what industries have you?". The answer is invariably on the lines "Oh nothing much
- wireless and jam and so on". A visit to the "Cambridge at Work" exhibition in
the Corn Exchange will give a much better insight into the activities at the
wireless and jam factories, and the other industrial concerns, and will enable him
to gain a true appreciation of the part that a light industrial centre like
Cambridge is playing in the country's struggle. Pye Ltd are showing the latest in
radio and television receivers.

1923
After a long discussion the Cambridge Town Council today decided to embark on a
scheme for the erection of 239 houses on the Chesterton Road and Milton Road site,
viz 30 houses of the parlour-type, 165 houses of the non-parlour type with three
bedrooms and 44 houses of the non-parlour type with two bedrooms

1898
The Cambridge magistrates were confronted by four small prisoners and their
judgement was sorely tried how best to deal with the boys, aged 11 and 9. They were
charged with stealing from a hen-house at Moyes' Farm, Shelly Row, Cambridge, four
eggs value 6d. Two were discharged and Dr Cooper advised their other to see her
sons should receive a hiding, she replied "I don't think there is much fear but
what they will catch it". Another boy had been before the Bench no less than four
times. In 1896 he had had six strokes for stealing beans. His parents had no
control over him. He was a perfect pest. Dr Cooper said that in a reformatory the
boys were all put together and only taught one another their tricks. The boy was
ordered to receive 12 strokes with the birch and told if he came up again he would
be birched and sent to prison
TUESDAY
20th January
1973
Cambridgeshire will soon boast a 60-acre country-park at Milton Pits and picnic
sites at Mepal Pits and Shepreth if a Committee proposal is backed by the County
Council. The Countryside Commission are poised to give grants to cover 75 per cent
of the purchase and development costs for all three sites. The picnic site at
Shepreth would cover about 24 acres of smallholdings land on the western side of
the road from Shepreth to Barrington. One side has a frontage to the River Rhee.
The Cambridgeshire & Isle of Ely Naturalists Trust say they are prepared to lay out
a nature trail for visitors

1948
Cambridgeshire has been well to the fore in implementing the proposals in the
Children's Bill. Under the Bill
responsibility for the care of children who have no normal home life is placed
squarely on the shoulders of the local authority. I think I am right in saying that
ours is one of the first County Council's to anticipate legislation. A Children's
Committee has been set up, a full-time Children's officer appointed, an office
established, and authorisation obtained for adding what staff is found necessary.
The Committee has inherited a number of foster homes and the "Red House", Little
Shelford and Ross Street Homes from the Public Assistance Committee. Council
Chairman M.C.Burkitt said they were anxious that these homes shall be similar in
atmosphere to an old-fashioned Victorian family

1923
When Mr D. Gadsby, in quest of relics of Saxton times, deflected into the little
Roman Catholic Church at Saffron Walden on his way to the old castle ruins it was
very fortunate for Walden. For the result has been a drawing of "The Agony in the
Garden". Mr Gadsby said "The loneliness of that little church in that rough
uncared-for street haunted me. I got the impression that there was seldom the sound
of a footfall there from one service to another and - well I just had to get busy".
The painting, which has been hung on the west side of the sanctuary, was unveiled
on Sunday last

1898
The first annual meeting of the St Ives and District Nursing Association was held
in the Corn Exchange, St Ives. The number of cases attended have been 117 of which
71 were in St Ives, 19 in Fenstanton and 27 in Hemingford. Of these eight have
died, five have been removed to hospital and 90 have recovered. Twenty of the cases
were accidents, several of them serious, and of such a nature as to make removal to
the hospital difficult, so that the patients derived much benefit from skilled
nursing in their own homes.

WEDNESDAY
21st January
1973
Cambridgeshire farmworkers have called for a £30 minimum wage for a 40-hour week.
But they turned down demands for strike action to back their claims. At present
farmworkers receive a £16.20 minimum for a 42-hour week. An increase bringing it to
£19.50 was due on January 22nd but was caught in the freeze and will not be paid
until April. Little Downham farmworker Michael Collins said that farmworkers were
living on a minimum wage. "We have got to throw down our tools and hold the country
to ransom like the miners and the power workers. The country has got to wake up to
the fact that we are an important industry and we want a living wage". Others
pointed out that the Prime Minister himself had said that anyone earning less than
£20 a week was on a starvation diet

1948
Princess Margaret paid her first visit to Cambridge to-day, when she accompanied
Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary on a visit to Mr S.N. Woolston's antique shop in St
Andrew's Street. The Princess wore a pale blue costume, with a pale blue halo hat
with a feather in it. Her coast was fawn fur, and she had blue lizard sling back
shoes and a grey lizard bag. Her youthful charm drew spontaneous admiring remarks
from the crowd which saw the Royal party leave. The Princess showed great interest
in all she saw during her tour of the premises and asked several questions. She was
obviously fascinated by the shop and its contents

1923
The Cambridge Mayoral reception was a very happy affair, and the 500 guests had a
thoroughly good time. I notice that in the report of the function reference was
made to the younger members of the company being eager to get on with the dancing.
That term, I presume was applied to all who felt young as well as those who looked
it. Some of the civic fathers could give points to the juveniles in the matter of
dancing. One alderman in particular looked as if he had discovered the secret of
perpetual youth. It was a mixed gathering representative of all parties. Freemasons
foregathered, Rotarians rotated and Labour leaders lounged lazily.

1898
The report of Cambridgeshire Technical Education Committee shows the village
library continued to be steadily appreciated. Where there are local libraries
already established in villages in connection with reading-rooms, schools etc, the
boxes of books offered would generally form a most useful addition, thus increasing
the interest and variety on the most economical terms - carriage only, to and fro

THURSDAY
22nd January
1973
Wages in Haverhill are amongst the lowest in the country. They are lower than
anywhere else in the area, which is the lowest paid region in the county. Members
of Haverhill's Housing Committee had before them figures which showed the national
average earnings for adult men as £37.00. The East Anglian average was given as
£33. For Haverhill the average was £29.50. A report by the Housing Manager on some
of the “economic & social problems" that faced tenants and that had led to the
council's rent arrears crisis told of families on low wages, inexperienced at
managing their affairs, often being seduced by the attractions of hire purchase
schemes they had no hope of meeting. Traders in the town who sell goods on credit
have equal problems in getting their money

1948
Any local viewers of television might recently have seen a rather surprising
cookery demonstration - during which fish and vegetables were cooked in the space
of three minutes. This astonishing revolution in cookery timing was accomplished by
means of a pressure cooker. These utensils, which look like ordinary saucepans,
were shown at last year's Ideal Homes Exhibition. They are now finding their way
in the shops and are being demonstrated at Messrs Herbert Robinson Ltd's Regent
Street store. They are made by a subsidiary firm of Messrs Pye Ltd

1923
Cambridgeshire County Council passed a resolution that the pay of the Cambs
Constabulary should be reduced 5s. a week. Councillor Webb said they had to face
grim realities. The present condition of agriculture was far worse than ever before
in the memory of man. They would have to make drastic reductions or they would not
be able to collect the money they voted away. Councillor Stubbs opposing the motion
said the police rendered very valuable services; their life was a very strenuous
one and made heavy calls upon their nervous system. In his opinion they were not
receiving extraordinary pay for the work they were called upon to do

1898
A very large company assembled at the Golden Lion Hotel, St Ives, when three
licenced houses were put up for sale by auction. The first house offered was the
Pelican Inn, Warboys. It was fully licenced and well fitted up with a frontage to
the High Street. It was sold for £1,000, it being fully expected to realize at
least
£1,500. Next was the Three Horseshoes in Woodhurst, brought for £500. The freehold
beerhouse in Fenstanton known as the Prince's Feathers with the cottage adjoining
was sold for £500 to Mr G.G. Wheeler as agent for Mr Burt, the well-known
Fenstanton brewer
FRIDAY
23rd January
1973
The overspill agreement that aimed at changing Mildenhall from a sleepy West
Suffolk village to a small rural industrial town was signed on March 31, 1965
between the Rural Council and the then London County Council. Now with the scheme
at the half-way stage the question can be asked: How has it worked? Almost 50 acres
of land has been allocated to new industry, all of which has been taken up. With a
block of 200 homes nearing completion in Clare Close and St John's Close 700 new
homes will have been built. The earliest problem, overspill families returning to
London dissatisfied with the few amenities is beginning to be overcome but leaves
in its wake a difficulty in finding skilled labour

1948
Yesterday's "Workers' Playtime" radio programme came from Pye's canteen, Cambridge.
Some 850 workers selected by ballot crowded in to enjoy the programme. After
preliminary community singing practice the "on the air" red light signal in front
of the stage lit up and the audience broke into the programme's signature tune,
"Side by Side". The Radio Revellers sang "There's Nobody Here But Us Chickens",
"Shoemaker's Serenade" and "Chinatown" in brisk, amusing and original style. They
were followed by Forsythe, Seamon
and Farrell, the wise-cracking American trio.

1923
Cambridgeshire County Council's Roads Committee recommended that when the roadmen's
hours of work are reduced from 50 to 48 per week the wages be reduced from 35s. to
30s. Councillor Stubbs said that Cambs roads were among the best in the country and
the work of the roadmen ought to be paid for as skilled work. The Council ought to
set and example both as to wages and conditions. What standard of life were they
setting up by giving a wage of 30s? It worked out at 2d. per head per meal and how
in the name of heaven did they expect families to live decently on that?

1898
A few minutes after four o'clock on Friday afternoon a trolley belonging to Mr E.
Beales, carter to the Great Eastern Railway, was being driven along the Fordham
Road, Newmarket, when the animal bolted, apparently without cause. The efforts of
the driver to check the animal were futile and when near the Jubilee Clock Tower
the horse got one of its legs over the shaft of the trolley. The trolley collided
with the stone steps of the Tower, and ran between two of the buttresses and a
lamp-post, where it became wedged, but no damage was done. The affair created
considerable sensation in the High Street as it appeared a serious accident was
imminent
LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
26TH January

1973
Two national organisations are interested in building a dance hall in the Fitzroy-
Burleigh Street area, the Cambridge Arts and Entertainments Committee were told
last night. The Director of Leisure Activities, Mr David Constant, reported that
the Mecca organisation had written to the Town Clerk confirming their interest.
Another firm of national dance hall promoters were also interested, he said.
Meanwhile public criticism of the lack of dances in Cambridge has led to a decision
to hold a series of monthly dances at the Guildhall from next October to March. Mr
Constant said the cost of a ticket, without subsidy would be 75p.
If the dances proved a success they might be able to lower the price

1947
Commenting at the meeting of Cambridgeshire County Council on the road signs that
Cambridge "Welcomes Careful Drivers" Councillor Jeeps said a stranger had told him
that from his experience Cambridge did not welcome any drivers, and he added "From
the other side of Shelford into Cambridge someone is on your tail; when you stop in
Cambridge it's "You can't park here" and when you leave Cambridge they chase you
nearly to Ely!"

1923
Saturday and Sunday were great days in the history of local Unitarians, for they
witnessed the realisation of a dream - the opening and dedication of a permanent
Unitarian Church building in Cambridge. For something like 20 years Unitarians in
Cambridge have been meeting in hired halls. The new hall is a particularly fine one
in Victoria Street and eminently suitable for the purpose intended. It was also
stated that a member of the congregation had now undertaken to erect a memorial
church, which would mean that the new hall would be greatly extended

1898
The Surveyor of Newmarket Urban District Council called attention to the fact that
an old horse, belonging to the Council, was incapacitated for work, owing to a
tumour having formed on its shoulder, he asked for instructions as to what should
be done with the animal. Mr Cattrall said if the tumour were removed it would be
several months before it would be fit to work again. He moved that the animal be
shot as it would not be worth their while to keep it. Mr Westrope said the horse
might be able to do light work on a farm. He thought they might sell the animal for
a few pounds. It was agreed to examine the horse and decide what should be done
with it

TUESDAY
27th January
1973
Cambridge Moslems will soon have their own mosque if a scheme to convert a property
goes through. The City's Moslem Association have bought 175 Chesterton Road and
hope to use it for their Friday prayer meetings as well as religious festivals and
other meetings. A Trustee of the foundation said "We have about 70 members and we
hope that it will be a meeting place for all Moslems who are living or staying in
Cambridge. If we get permission for it we shall be sending back to our home
countries for donations and help from there"

1948
Deep concern over alleged differences in the rations of European Volunteer Workers
and farm workers - in favour of the former - was expressed by members of
Cambridgeshire County Council. Capt Ockleston said displaced persons, "whether in
hostels or need canteens, are getting 3s.7d. worth of meat a week against the odd
bob's worth our men, who are doing all the work, are getting". Ald Stubbs denied
that the displaced persons got any more food that the average person but Ald
Jackson said he knew of a Polish camp where the occupants got in the region of
double the ordinary meat ration. There were plenty of farm workers who had to take
their breakfast out with them and whose wives did not know what to provide them
with

1923
Good news for Cambridge. The Linoleum King will commence his Great Sale on
Thursday when he will dispose of 50 tons of very thick Cork Linoleum direct from
the Mills in Lancaster from 2s per remnant, bath towels and hundreds of other
useful articles including 5,000 large size Pillow Slips at 6d each. Don't fail to
visit the working man's friend, whom you have read about in all leading papers -
advert

1898
Cambridgeshire County Council Road and Bridges Committee reported that had received
an application from Toft that the Council should support a petition to the London
and North Western Railway Company to place a station or siding at Toft or Kingston
Bridge. They were of the opinion that such a station would greatly benefit several
villages now four or six miles distance froma railway station and would be of
advantage to Caxton R.D.C. in obtaining road material. They therefore recommend the
petition be supported
WEDNESDAY

28th January
1973
St Ives boxer Joe Bugner will not be alone when he steps into the ring to face
Muhammad Ali in Las Vegas next month - for beyond the ropes& out of the spotlights
will be scores of his local fans. Many fans from his home town of St Ives are
making the once-in-a-lifetime trip to Las Vegas to cheer their hero in the biggest
challenge of his career. Amongst the crowds will be the proprietors of his local
Svene Seas fish and chip shop, Keith and Eileen Holland. Since they opened their
shop four years ago Joe, the European heavyweight champion, has been one of their
regulars

1948
The net cost per dwelling to Cambridge Town Council of the 100 permanent aluminium
bungalows to be erected at Church End, Cherry Hinton may be approximately £1,142.
Figures are as follows : 100 bungalows at £1,267.7s.3d. each; cost of foundations
£19,019.3.4.; cost of roads and sewers £28,201; total gross cost £173,956.8s.4d.
Less grant of £660 per bungalow this makes the individual cost per bungalow
£1,079.11s.3d. but if there is added the cost of the land (£1,620) and payment in
event of rubble not being made available to the sub-contractor for the construction
of roads the figures will be approximately £1,142

1923
A shop without a sale is like a ship without a rudder. Suprlus stock must be sold
at all cost. WE must turn our stock over, that is why we offer such knowck-out
bargains. Boys and youths' overcoasts in naps, cheviots and all-woo blanket cloths
from 5s.11d. Boys' knickers in splendid wearing quality materials from 1s. Ladies'
coats for winter wear in various blanket cloths, well tailored, absolute bargains
from 6s.11d. Special sale bargains for tomorrow - 300 men's caps 1s. Northern
Clothing Co., 9 Guildhall Street (opposite Corn Exchange), Cambridge - advert

1898
Messrs Wright and Scruby offered for sale by auction the freehold, fully-licenced
public house in Cottenham known as the "Jolly Waterman" with stud build cottage.
Price £575. In Lt Wilbraham - freehold beer house known as "The Hole in the Wall",
also two cottages, lareg back garden and orchard. Price £450

THURSDAY
29th January
1973
I hope it will not have escaped notice that in the absence of any signals, traffic
is now flowing through the Trumpington Road / Lensfield Road / Fen Causeway
junction nearly as quickly as it did a year ago, when there was a power strike and
the lights were not working. I am an everyday user of this particular junction and
have noticed that traffic will always be clear, and on no account is there any
traffic jam, when the lights are not working. As soon as the council turns them on
there is chaos everywhere. When will they ever learn the more they do to that
particular junction the worse they make it - letter G.D.Mills

1948
The Great Ouse Catchment Board has put a price of £5 on the head of the coypu rat,
as if it increased in numbers it could become a serious menace to the safety of the
fens. It burrows into banks to make a nest, digging a long tunnel larger than a
rabbit hole. "If floods came such holes as that might easily cause a bank
to blow" said Mr W.E.Doran. The coypu rat is a South American species and is bred
in this country for its fur. Several of the rats escaped from a farm in Norfolk.
Two have so far been shot in the Catchment Board's area. One weighed 16 1/2 lbs and
was the size of a terrier dog

1923
The war was responsible for a good many things and amongst others was the delay in
completing the King Edward VII memorial scheme in Cambridge. Soon after his death a
memorial fund raised £10,000 for Addenbrooke's Hospital. £250 was retained for a
statue, bust or picture. Statuary is very costly at present but we find we can
obtain a bronze bust of King Edward by the late Sir Thomas Brock, the sculptor of
the bust of Queen Victoria now in the vestibule of the Guildhall. The committee
recommended that the offer be accepted as it would make a welcome addition to the
somewhat bare vestibule of the Guildhall

1898
The Wicken carrier was charged with cruelty to a mare by working it while in an
unfit state. Inspector Bartholomew, R.S.P.C.A., said he noticed the defendant at
the top of Fore Hill, Ely. He was driving a bay mare in a carrier's cart. When
three parts up the hill he stopped, and before he got to the top of the hill he
stopped again. When he got to the top he hailed him and he stopped, and the animal
stretched, put both legs out, hung his head and appeared exhausted. The animal was
in a wretchedly poor condition. He called Mr Thomas Runciman, vet, of Ely who said
he found the mare aged and rather poor and small. He, however, did
not think the animal was in an unfit state to work. Magistrates dismissed the case

FRIDAY
30th January
1973
To most people Value Added Tax means a slightly worrying period round about April
1st of this year when the prices of familiar objects are likely to do funny things.
But to the staff of the new V.A.T. wing of the Customs and Excise Department it
means a massive piece of reorganisation to be undertaken in a remarkably short
period of time. Although 6,00 extra people have been employed nationally the
Cambridge sub-office does not have a particularly large staff. When fully up to
establishment it will employ about 26 people involved in the administration of VAT
and this number will include officers and secretarial staff. From dealing with 500
people over Purchase Tax the officers of the department will now have contact with
10,000. But against this the tax is easier to administer in some areas and has been
designed for computer control from the outset

1948
The assassination of Mr Mahatma Gandhi, shot dead on his way to his prayer meeting
on Friday, which has produced world-wide expressions of horror and sympathy will
recall to many the week-end visit he paid to Cambridge in October 1931 when in
England as a delegate to the second Round Table Conference. He was
accompanied by his son and visited Pembroke College. Mr Gandhi's visit was of a
private nature but he attended the usual Sunday evening meeting of the Majlis, the
Indian students' club. It was during his stay in Cambridge that the Union Society
debated the resolution "That this House would welcome the immediate
establishment in India of a representative Constitution based on full Dominion
status"

1923
The third annual meeting of the Cambridgeshire Federation of Women's Institutes was
held in the Cambridge Guildhall. Representatives from 28 out of 29 institutes
attended and steady expansion was reported in all branches. The office and shop at
10 St Edward's Passage has been a great factor in this advance. Institute members
now have a central meeting place where they can view each other's work and exchange
ideas, whilst inhabitants of Cambridge have the opportunity of getting into touch
with country
women and are glad to profit from the results of the homecrafts practiced by their
country sisters

1898
Somersham Pig Club and Hearts of Oak Medical Agency held their annual dinner. Dr
Lees remarked he was somewhat puzzled to know where and why the two clubs should be
connected that evening. After thinking it over it occurred to him that the oak
produced acorns and that pigs were very fond of these. He supposed that
those arranging this matter considered that by turning the Pig Club into the Hearts
of Oak all would have a good feed
Looking Back, by Mike Petty
MONDAY
2nd February
1973
Wrights of Cambridge, who claim to sell a quarter of all vehicles sold in
Cambridge, have been taken over. The new owners are Gilbert Rice Ltd, a south coast
garage chain who, like Wrights, are Ford dealers. Wrights began 60 years ago as
motor and agricultural engineers. The family business boomed and they took over
Cambridgeshire Motors in 1963

1948
The plight of R.A.F. personnel at Bassingbourn, often left waiting in queues at the
railway station whilst waiting for transport to be available to take them back to
camp after a weekend leave, was mentioned at a sitting of the Eastern Area Traffic
Commissioners. Permission was sought for a bus service direct to the camp from
London. Whippet Coaches sought to provide a new express service from Bassingbourn
to London. The fare would be 10s.6d. The Transport Officer at the camp said that
personnel varied between 1,000 and 1,200 and the maximum number on weekend leave
between 150 and 200

1923
An attempt to settle the question of the construction of an open-air bath on Jesus
Green or Midsummer Common was made at the meeting of the Cambridge Town Council and
provide work for the unemployed. Councillor Briggs said unemployment was becoming a
serious menace to the town. If they could get this scheme through at once with old
enable the Unemployment Committee to have something when they met the unemployed
later that day

1898
A report to Cambridge Guardians showed that in some cases foster parents had
neglected their duty towards the children entrusted to their care, especially in
regard to not keeping them clean, not mending or renewing their clothes or not
providing them with proper sleeping rooms. Such neglect could only be discovered by
frequent visits made to the home and members of the Ladies’ Boarding-Out Committee
had no been instructed in those methods and there was good reason for concluding
that no serious neglect of duty on the part of foster parents would in future
remain undetected

TUESDAY
3rd February

1973
Cambridgeshire and Isle of Ely County Council may hand back more than £1 million to
ratepayers in an attempt - during the authority's last year of life - to stop
rocketing rate increases forecast for this year by financial experts. The council
will be asked at their budget meeting to levy a total rate of 30p in the pound
during 1973-74. The coming financial year will be the County Council's last. They
amalgamate with the Huntingdon and Peterborough County Council on April 1 1974 to
form the enlarged Cambridgeshire council. Before the merger takes place, the
committee want to pour back more than £1 million to brig the county council's
financial balances into line with those of the Huntingdon authority

1948
A new Cambridge ballroom known as The Embassy is to be opened at Mill Road tomorrow
evening. Formerly a billiards hall, the building has been converted by Mr Harry
Bradford, who claims that as a result of the labours of himself and friends the
building is now "a lovely ballroom". For the opening tomorrow the new resident
professional band is led by Freddie Webb, who has just left the Bag o'Nails Club,
London, to take over the leadership. With him are Tony Rivers, alto saxophone,
Dusty Myatt (piano) and Freddy Webb,
drummer. Guest vocalist with the band is Harry Roy, vocalist Terry da Costa

1923
A meeting of the Free Church Council were told that pessimists talked of the
depravity of the rising generation and said that young people were too frivolous.
They heard a lot about the jazz and the night clubs, but all young people did not
want such things. If they were not what they might be the older generation were
really to blame; they were responsible for the rising generation

1898
The wind howled round the exterior of the Urban District Council offices at
Chesterton last night in wild and fitful fury, shaking the windows, and making a
big noise generally. In justice to the elements, it is only fair to say that a
similar state of things prevailed within, and for a time the “wind” of the interior
quite drowned the tumult of the exterior

WEDNESDAY
4th February

1973
Buried under the car parks of a handful of pubs in Cambridgeshire are little areas
of gault clay, about four
feet square. Forty years ago these were sites for one of England's oldest and most
venerable sports - quoits. This sport, along with devil-among-the-tailors, bat-and-
trap and shove ha'penny have disappeared from the Cambridge pub scene. Cards,
dominoes, darts and the occasional skittle alley hold sway in Cambridge now. But in
the twenties Cambridge was the centre of quoit-playing in East Anglia. It had its
own league, with a set of rules which differed from more northern quoit-playing
area of England

1948
In the Commons yesterday, Mr Leslie Symonds (Lab., Cambridge) asked the Secretary
for War how many persons the former U.S. Army camp at Milton Road, Cambridge, was
built to accommodate and how many persons were accommodated there now. Mr Shinwell
replied that the camp was built to accommodate 850 troop on a war basis. On a
peace-time basis it could accommodate 700, The unit at present occupying it
totalled some 400 and the surplus accommodation was earmarked for another unit
which would move in this month

1923
The need for more land for the allotment holder was demonstrated at the first
annual meeting of the Chesterton Allotment Association. Three hundred applications
for land have already been received and it was reported that the Town Clerk is in
communication with Clare College with respect to the purchase of a field in Milton
and Scotland roads. There were some 24 acres contained therein. Mrs Stevenson said
she was exceedingly interested in this East Chesterton’s move towards getting
satisfactory allotments. She thought it wise for this part of the town to see about
getting their allotments before they got built over.

1898
Messrs Grain. Moyes and Wisbey attended at the Lion Hotel and offered for sale by
auction the well-known freehold inn, The Green Man, Trumpington, with yard,
stabling and outbuildings, pleasure and kitchen gardens and a paddock, the whole
having an area of about 3 acres. Bidding commenced at £2,000 and quickly reached
£3,100, at which price the property was declared sold
THURSDAY
5th February

1973
Householders, traders, planners and property developers have a common hope in the
outcome of next week's public inquiry into the proposed comprehensive development
plan for the Burleigh Street area of Cambridge. They all want a firm answer to a
question which has blighted a decade of Cambridge planning history. The answer, if
it comes, will not please everybody, since homes and small businesses are
threatened
by the scheme, but it should put an end to years of confusion and uncertainty. The
question is: Will the Government give the go-ahead for redevelopment on the lines
of the current proposals?

1948
"It could not have been better placed for now it will eliminate the necessity of
people of this district having to go to the Guildhall and like places for their
entertainment. The management are to be congratulated on the
redecoration of the building". So said Ald A.E. Stubbs, M.P. of the new "Embassy"
ballroom Mill Road, Cambridge. And if the reaction of a "capacity" crowd who
flocked to this new venture are anything to go by, his words were most heartily
endorsed. From the word "Go" at 7.30 the crowd set out to make the most of their
new ballroom, and numbers steadily increased until the maximum of 300 dancers had
been reached

1923
Speaking at the annual dinner of the Cambridge Motor Boat Club was held at
Matthew’s Café, Cambridge, the Mayor said he had often, when walking on the tow
path, looked at the “motorists of the Cam” with envying eyes. He had thought what a
lazy lot of chaps they were. (Laughter). But he had also thought what a jolly good
time they were having. The Town Council had just become Conservators of the Cam.
The Bill was an accomplished fact, and no doubt those present were looking to the
Council to use a magic wand and make an ideal waterway of the river at once. (Hear,
hear). If those who were motorists of the Cam could hand over to the Council about
£20,000, he thought the Council could manage that. His recollection went back over
50 years when it was a highway of commerce. The quayside in Bridge Street was line
up with 20 or 30 barges containing coal, stone, wool and food. A great deal of
employment was found on that quayside; many hundreds used to be employed there

1898

Chesterton UDC discussed an ancient right of way known as Little Lane, leading from
Chesterton Road to the back of Mr Foster’s boathouse. It had been in existence as
long as the oldest man in Chesterton could remember and there had been no
obstruction of any kind. Now it had been blocked by the erection of a fence by a
member of the Council

FRIDAY
6th February

1973
Cambridge's longest slogan - all 60 yards of it - spanning the Lion Yard hoarding
along Petty Cury is likely to remain for some time. The slogan, which advertises
the Cambridge Claimants' Union, exceeds even the anti-Vietnam banner erected on
King's College chapel some years ago. The foot-high, spray-painted slogan
proclaiming: "Fight for the right to live with Claimants Union, the union for all
unemployed unsupported mothers, low paid supplementary pensioners, sick people"
seems set to stay

1948
Just before 7 o'clock last Saturday night the canteen of Messrs Chivers & Sons Ltd,
The Orchard Factory, Histon, closely resembled the latest advertisement from this
famous firm - "All set for a jolly good party". Where hundreds of workers regularly
take their meals were festive decorations attractively placed and a buffet
tastefully set out in more ways than one to attract the attention of those who,
having been engaged on food production for five days, returned on Saturday to enjoy
a social evening with fellow employees. The programme opened with a selection of
gramophone records. After refreshments the company divided, some dancing to the
music of the Augmented Works Dance Band whilst others interested themselves in many
sideshows and competitions

1923
A fire which might have assumed much more alarming proportions but for the efforts
of the villagers and the promptness of the Cambridge Borough Fire Brigade, broke
out in a stack at Red Brick Farm, Hardwick. The fire was noticed about 2 o’clock on
Thursday afternoon and a messenger was sent to Comberton Post Office and the
Brigade received the call from there at 2.58. When the messenger returned to
Hardwick he found the tender in charge of Sergt Claugue already on the spot having
covered the distance of about six miles within 12 minutes of receiving the call

1898
Cycle traders of Cambridge have put on one side petty jealousy, and uniting under
the title of the Cambridge City Traders' Association have prepared an exhibition in
the Corn Exchange. Every description of cycle is here, from the child's small
machine and the slim one of the fair sex to the stout roadster of the hardy,
touring, record-making male. The latest novelties find a place, and motor cycles
and tricycles tempt those to whom ease and novelty are more than exercise. In this
connection we may mention that it is proposed to have a motor car running during
the week about the town in connection with the show. Special railway facilities
have been granted and the exhibition should be an immense success. To all we would
say "Go", whether a wheeler or not.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

note: some of the stories between 7th & 28th February are brief index entries as
the published text has been lost. I have copies of many of the articles and given
details of actual date and page that the stories originally appeared

Monday February 9th

1973
Famous painting, Huntingdon – 73 02 09 p4

1948
Soroptomist club charter – 48 02 09 p7

1923
Flat-handed police – 23 02 09 p5

1898
Horse club formed – 98 02 10

Tuesday February 11th

1973
Golf – 73 02 10 p10

1948
Island of drought – 48 02 09 p7

1923
Massage week – 23 02 10 p3

1898
Advertising novelty – 98 02 10 p2

Wednesday February 12th

1973
Varsity to close Saturday – 73 02 13 p1

1948
Hairdresser – 48 02 11 p5

1923
cry of unemployed – 23 02 12 p3

1898
Working Mens’ dinner – 98 02 11 p3

Thursday February 13th

1973
Electronic banking – 73 02 13 p13
1948
Ferguson dealers – 48 02 13 p8

1923
Mammoth show – 23 02 14 p3

1898
Cycle show last day photographed by Sidney Smee – 98 02 11 p3

Friday February 14th

1973
Burleigh inquiry – 73 02 13 p9

1948
Charles Chaplin – 48 02 14 p6

1923
Divorce suit – 23 02 14 p4

1898
Varsity cycle store – 98 02 14 p4

MONDAY February 16th

1973
The Government have abandoned the hovertrain project. They decided two weeks ago
not to plough more money into the project, but the decision was kept secret because
the Aerospace Minister, Mr Michael Heseltine, hopes to sell of parts of the project
to two contractors. Mr Heseltine said nearly all the 150 workers on the project
would lose their jobs. An arrangement has been made with Hawker Siddeley to develop
the linear motor. British Rail had agreed to continue development of the magnetic
suspension system. The Tracked Hovercraft Company was set up in 1967 and £5,250,000
was originally earmarked for the project

1948
The first case dealt with by Mr Harry Edwards, a leading psychic healer at the
service of healing of the Cambridge Spiritualist Healing Guild was a four-year old
of Ramsey who was afflicted with infantile paralysis last August and has not been
able to walk properly since. He was carried by his mother on to the dais wearing an
iron support on his left leg. This was removed. Mr Edwards placed his hands around
the boy’s back and a few seconds later he was walking. For the remainder of the
afternoon he was romping around the front of the hall as happy as any child could
be

1923
In the Divorce Court a Cambridge man petitioned for the dissolution of his marriage
because of his wife’s adultery. Three months after he returned to France from a
leave in November 1918 he had a letter from his wife telling him she was expecting
a child. In March 1919 he was demobilised and returned home and found his wife
unwell. She told him there had been a slight mishap. On March 10th she became very
ill and was taken to the hospital where she was delivered of a still-born child. He
spoke to his wife on the subject and she admitted it and said that he was not the
father. The co-respondent, of Newmarket Road, admitted misconduct with the wife at
Napier Street and several other places out-of-doors
1898
A bevy of undergraduates walked into the office of the Cambridge Daily News and
offered the manuscript of a most alarming anarchist outrage upon the Dean of
Pembroke college. The report submitted was of the discovery of a bomb upon the
doorstep of the Dean, with much picturesque description. The contribution was
promptly “declined with thanks”. Late that evening a member of our reporting staff
received telegraphic instructions from a popular London morning paper, showing the
perpetrators of the joke, having failed at this office had “tried their luck”
elsewhere

TUESDAY
February 17th
1973
Student sit-ins in Cambridge should be met with firm action, and, if necessary,
criminal proceedings says the University’s High Steward, Lord Devlin, in a report
on student disturbances. In the report - arising out of last February’s occupation
of university offices by students - his advice to the university for dealing with
demonstrations is clear. First there should be “persuasion by the proctors and
university constables, reinforced by enough physical presence to test the
atmosphere”. If that fails the police should be called in and criminal proceedings
instituted. Lord Devlin calls for more student participation in the university
government, a forum for discussion of student vies and a better information service

1948
Farmers from all over Cambridgeshire attended a conference on “Combine
harvesting without a drier”. Roger North of Kings Lynn described his experiences of
buying a combine harvester in 1933, when there were only about 60 of the machines
in the country. “I was told by everyone that the combines were totally unsuited to
British conditions and climate. Nevertheless in 1942 there were 1,000 combines
working in England in 1944 this number had risen to 2,500”. The speaker had only
used his combine for wheat, barley, oats and peas and said he was against combining
wheat without a drier. Barley was however ideal for combining because it did not
easily become damp

1923
In Chancery Court Justice Sargant commenced hearing an action to determine the
rights with regard to a stream in the parish of Linton. Hadstock Mill seemed to
have existed since the 11th century. Plaintiff owned the bed of the stream and the
water ran through his garden. His complaint was that on Sunday mornings the
defendant, who owned the mill, made a practice of boating on the stream in front of
his garden, thus destroying the privacy of the garden. In 1921 plaintiff had
erected a barricade across the river, which defendant removed. The matter was put
into the hands of the solicitors

1898
After a considerable period of immunity from serious fire outbreak, Cambridge was
visited with a fire which, but for the prompt measures taken for its suppression,
must have caused widespread destruction of property in the vicinity. The
conflagration occurred at Mr Varty’s cycle stores in Bridge Street. The cause is
supposed to have been a large lamp which was hanging up in the shop falling to the
floor and igniting. The building is a very old one and contains an enormous amount
of timber and this, upon being seized by the flames, burnt rapidly and fiercely. A
large number of bottles of lubricating and lamp oils in stock added to the
conflagration. Some 60 bicycles which were stored at the back of the house,
belonging chiefly to University men, were rescued, together with some horses
stabled in a shed at the side of the house
WEDNESDAY

February 18th
1973
Joe Bugner fighting a mercurial Muhammad Ali was clearly out pointed in his
world title eliminator in Las Vegas. Any chance the European champion from St Ives
had of taking the initiative disappeared in the first round. From then on his fight
for survival was only infrequently interspersed with bursts of aggression. The
Mayor of St Ives, Coun. Mrs Susan Phipps said she was going to send Joe a telegram
congratulating him on putting up “such a splendid fight”

1948
Because a small, white, inoffensive three-months-old chicken chose to take a
walk inn a neighbour’s garden on Christmas day, Cambridge county court was kept
occupied for two and a half hours yesterday afternoon. The plaintiff said she went
into the garden to get some celery. The fork she intended to use for this purpose
was temporarily being utilised for keeping down the wire netting of the chicken run
and when he picked it up the netting became loose. The chicken escaped on to the
defendant’s land who fetched a broomstick with which she commenced to poke at the
chicken, which had become entangled with a hedge in her garden

1923
New Dominion settlements – 23 02 24 p5

1898
Sunlight soap exhibition Corn Exchange – 98 02 16 p2

THURSDAY
February 19th
1973
Mr Jeremy Thorpe, the Liberal leader, visited residents in the Burleigh-Fitzroy
Street area of Cambridge, whose homes are endangered by the proposed shopping
development which is at present the subject of an inquiry. Amongst the people he
met was Mrs Lavinia Hawes, who moved to her James Street home six months ago and
said that it suited her family perfectly. She would be giving evidence at the
inquiry. After a visit to the new Cambridge volunteer bureau in Fitzroy Street, Mr
Thorpe left to see Bar Hill
1948
South Cambridgeshire RDC Housing Committee was told that the Regional Planning
Officer had referred to Wimpole as “just a dying hamlet”. Mr Binney remarked that
this indicated that it was going to be “killed off”. Mr F.W. Murfitt commented that
Lord Hardwick had “killed” Wimpole 50 years ago when he built his mansion. The
village however, had a magnificent park, where there were converted hutments.
Tenders had been received for the conversion of 9 huts into temporary dwellings at
Wratting Common Airfield.
1923
Sheeps Green improvement – 23 02 24 p5
1898
Cambridge market stalls – 98 02 17 p3
FRIDAY
February 20th
1973
Cambridge Undergraduates are to continue their occupation of two university
buildings until Monday morning. The Sidgwick site sit-in is now Cambridge’s longest
student occupation on record. Last year’s protest at the Old Schools lasted just 48
hours, while the one two years previously was a short-lived 36 hours. The Sidgwick
occupation was sparked off by university rejection of some Economics Tripos reforms
and now incorporates a protest against Lord Devlin’s recommendations to the
university

1948
An £8,000 new “weapon” was officially added to the “armoury” of the drainage
engineers fighting the never-ending battle of the fens. It is a 360 h.p. two-stroke
diesel engine installed at the Ten Mile River Pumping Station near Littleport. Of
the kind also used to generate electricity in ships it is the first in the country
to be adapted by the makers for land drainage. Coupled to an already-existing pump
at the station it will help to throw fen water into the river at the rate of 200
tons a minute. It replaces a steam engine installed in 1912

1923
St John’s college war memorial – 23 02 24 p6

1898
Chief constable report – 98 02 19 p3

Monday February 23rd

1973
Green Shied stamp raid – 73 02 21 p1

1948
Typhoid at Hemingford Grey Prisoner of War camp – 48 02 23 p7

1923
Newmarket building strike – 23 02 28 p3

1898
ructions at Emmanuel college – 98 02 21 p3

Tuesday February 24th

1973
Waffles demolition – 73 02 22 p13

1948
Temporary closure, Madingley cemetery – 48 02 25 p7

1923
effects of prohibition – 23 02 28 p4

1898
Addenbrooke's Hospital steam laundry – 98 02 22 p2

Wednesday February 25th

1973
Roses Fashions may move – 73 02 23

1948
Conington Hall flats – 48 02 25 p10

1923
Building trade crisis – 23 03 01 p3

1898
Romsey Recreation Ground wanted – 98 02 22 p3

Thursday February 26th

1973
car park fees up – 73 02 24 p1

1948
Singapore despatch published – 48 02 27 p6

1923
Wheatsheaf, Chesterton – 23 03 02 p5

1898
rail accident to rag and bone man, Sutton – 98 02 22 p3

Friday February 27th

1973
King’s College drugs – Robin Page – 73 02 28 p13

1948
Charlie Chaplin – 48 02 28 p6

1923
First LNER engine – 23 03 03 p6

1898
bus and tram assault – 98 02 22 p3

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY March 2nd

1973
A beds shortage has forced Old and New Addenbrooke's Hospitals, in Cambridge to
halt admissions for routine operations. At the same time the hospitals face a
stepped up campaign of industrial action, inluding selective strikes, by their non-
medical staff. The beds crisis has come at a time when there are 3,000 people on
the waiting list for routine operations at hospitals in the United Cambridge group.

1948
At seven o'clock this morning, in very dense fog, a lorry containing 11 Germn
P.O.Ws. crashed broadside into a railway engineand brake van at an accommodation
level crossing at Conington, Hunts. Three of the Germans were killed outright - and
all the other injured. The injured were placed inanother motor vehicle for
transport to Peterborough Hospital but when only a few hundred yards down the road
this vehicle crashed into a bus. Two more of the Germans have since died and some
of the remaining nine are seriously ill. One of the dead is the German doctor who
was tending the prisoners injured in the train crash

TUESDAY
March 3rd
1973
The building where the firt electricity for lighting in Cambridge was generated is
now on the market. The property, No.2 Market Passage, was the premises of Bailey,
Grundy and Barrett, electrical contractors. In 1891 the firm produced the first
electricity for lighting in the city with a gas engine and a dynamo installed in
the basement. In those early days private electrical generating plants were suppply
by the company to several of the Camridge colleges. Until after the 1914-18 war
such plants continued to be installed in country houses in outlying districts. As
this busines declined, the company moved into wireles, the deign and making of
temperture control equipment for laboratories and other specialised apparatus

1948
A dispute over the possible revision of the boundary between Caldecote and Bourn
was the subject of a public inquiry at Elsworth British Legion Hall. In 1946 the
first parish council for Caldecote was elected and an undertaking entered into that
the queston ofthe boundary should receive atention. Caldecote village shop was, in
fact, in Bourn parish, together with a numbe rof other houses actually in Caldecote
village. There was no dispute that they should be included in Caldecote who had
given them telephonic and telegraphic facilities and provided educational
factilities for the children. It had also included a special ruleto enable the
inhabitants to use Caldecote village hall. The point at issue was the inclusionn of
a factory occupied by Pest Controlwhich was formerly part of the R..F. Station,
Bourn
WEDNSDAY
March 4th
1973
The £16,000 hydraulic platform which the Cambridgeshire Fire Brigade bought two
years ago has revolutionised fire fighting in Cambridge, and made it much more
efficient. In view of its success the County Fire Brigade Committee decided to
abandon the use of the old-fashioned bok-ladders hich have been used for years to
reach the tops of high buildings. The hydrauic platforms, which extend to a height
of 80 feet can be used to operate over the tops of parked cars in narrow and
congested city streets

1948
Several hundred people gathered round theflagstaff at the Cambridge
AmericanMilitary Cemetery for a simple service of benedction. The reason for the
service was emphasised by the long rows of empty, tarpaulin -covered caskets bear
the scene of the service - the caskets in which will be returned to the United
States the remains of those American service men and women buried at the cemetery
whose erelatives wish their last resting-place to be at home. For this reason the
cemetery is to be closed for a period, and for the purpose too of reburying the
bodies of those interred in the now-to-be -closed Brookwood and Lisnabrenny
(Northern Ireland) American Military6 Cemeteries whose relatives wish them to rest
in England
THURSDAY
March 5th
1973
The Master of St Catharine's college, Professor Edwin Rich, was involve din a
scuffle with women's lib demonstratos last night when 30 of them interrupted the
Cambrdge college's dinner. College Felow sleft the high table and with waiters
rushed to the 69-year-old Master's assistance when women demonstrators bgan
struggling with him after he had grabbed a bugle which one woman attempted to blow
in his face. The demonstration was aimed at drawing atention to the lack of places
for women in Cambrdge unversity. The touble started immediatley after grace had
been said and halted waiters in thrie tracks leaving them poised with trays of
grapefruit. The demonstrators - all women - swept into the hall led by a bugler and
carrying an assortment of placades on the theme "Sexism - out"

1948
The queston of whether or not people from a distance can become students. The
Cambridgeshre Technical College and School of Art in coming to be detirmined in
some cases by whether or not they can find accommodation in Cambridge. There has
been a great influs to the college since the war ended, partly due to the number of
ex-Service men and women on Government grants taking special business courses. The
past presented no real problems, and the future will be taken care of when the new
building now planned goes up, probably with its own hostel accommodation. The
present, however presents a difficulty which is becoming increasingly acute

FRIDAY
March 6th
1973
Siclair Radionis ltd, whos elaunch of a minature electronic calculator less than a
year ago bred a host of imitators on the market, are still cock-a-hoop. For today,
with eight month sales behind the, the St Ives firm still domnate the market,
sending out from their riverside mill factory each month more than half the United
Kngdom sales. Now the firm have hit harder still at their competitors with a £20
reduction to £59.
The executive calculator is smaller than a 5p bar of chocolate. It uses 7,000
transistors, 10 times as many as in the normal colour televsion set

1948
Sir - As a resident of the Abbey Ward who lives near the Gas Works I wuld like to
make a strong complaint as to the filth we have received this last6 few weeks from
the Gas Works. People cannot go outside their doors for the dirt and smoke that6
meets them and the dirt tat penetrates their houses. Also there is the terrible
noise we get day and night from something that works in River Lane. Surely this
could be quitened in some way so that we could get some sleep at night. We need
sleep and clean air in these difficult times - Ratepayer

LOOOKING BACK
MONDAY
March 9th
1973
One of the largest single orders - £2.1 million - ever placed to a Pye group
company has been won by Pye TVT Ltd of Coldham's Lane, Cambridge, to supply colour
television equipment to the government of South Korea. Many Far East observers
believe that Korea could be expanding industrially to the point where it could
become another Japan so the long-term prospects for business there seem very good.
The contrct is for a full colour television installation for the national
broadasting system. TVT will supply four colour television studions, a monochrome
studio, colour and monochrome cameras, mbile studios, a master control and
assosciated equipment. It also covers the training of Korean engineers

1948
Sir - When crossing the Market Hill, Cambridge, one aft6ernoon oft6his weekI was
asked t6he folllowing quest6ion by a young lady, whom I th6ought might have been
more profitably6 employed; "Would you care to sign our petition for the reduction
of prices, and the cuttng of profits?" I then discovered a stalll draped with
Communist bills and ot6her literature. I curtly6 and firmly refused to sign and I
thought to myself: "So this is England, England that still stands firm for freedom,
and y6et6 at t6he same time allows the vile doctrine of Communism t6o be openly6,
and shamelessly66666666666666666666666666666, broadcast6 amongst the people on it's
public market place". It would be interesting to know what Mr Hamilton Kerr
(prospect6ive Conservative candidate) have to say about it. Yours etc "AJAX"
TUSEDAT
March 10th
1973
With pomp and gageantry - and a large clap of thunder and deluge of snow nd rain -
Ely cathedral's 13th centenary celebrations were launched. There was somethng
almost supernatural about the thunder and lightning and the deluge which came as
the heavens opened up. It was almost as if the monks, who 1,300 years ago
established the first monastic settlement in the historic city, were watcing and
where detirmined to make their presence felt. But the celebrations got off beneth
the shadwo of the cathedral which doinates Ely, as hundreds of townspeople,
visitors from the surrouding area and tourists watched. It marked the beginning of
a year of activities

1948
An accident at the junction of Madingley Road, Queen’s Road and Nort6hampt6on
Sreet, Cambridge between an American 2½ ton lorry and an articulated lorry was so
vilent that it took nearly 2½ hours to part6 the two vehicles. A heavy lorry
driver said he was corring t6he junction from Queens' Road an American vehicle
coming rom the opposite direction of Northamton Street collided with his lorry,
knocking it across the road. Witnesses told the court it had taken 2½ hours to
part the lorries. Various methods were tried including an American crane pulling
one way6 and a 3½ ton lorry another, using an electric welder,
but in the end the trailer of the articulated lorry ahd to be taken off and the two
vehicles prised apart

WEDNESDAY
March 11th
1973
An ancient forest of bog oaks has een dug up in a 10-acre field at Soham Fen. A
contractor ploughing the field only three inches deper than usual found his plough
catching two or three oaks in every run across the field. Mr John Fletcher who
fams the field said; "I've been cultivating this land all my life and only struck
the odd one, but this year its is just as if there is a whole forest of them. It
has taken four men with two tractors a fortnight to clear the field. Some of the
oaks wee 60 feet long and had to be cut into three parts before the tractors could
pull them out". A National Farmer's Union spokesman said "The oaks lie at the bottm
of the peat soil on the hard sub-soil. By ploughing deeper Mr Fletcher has struck
ths level". He said: "Bog oaks are not as common around Ely as they used to be as
most of them have been cleared. They are several thousand years old"

1948
Seven witness frm fenland came t6o Cambridge to plead for better bus facilities to
link their isolated homesteads wit6h Ely market, but their case was preceded by a
long hearing and t6he Traffic commissioners had time only6 to listen to 6tw6o of
them before adjouring 6the proceedings. Tos6 e6una6ble6 to be6 he6ard6 w6aite66d
from 11a6m to 6.30 pm. ^Before the ^Commissioners were applications by William
Washington of Littleport to operate new stage carriage6 services be6tw6een Bla6ck
Hor6s6e Drove and6 Hom6e ^Far6m D^rove (Hundrd Foot Bank) and6 ^Ely. ^The
applicatins w6e6re6 obj6ect6e6d to by6 the6 E^astern Counties Ombibus Company. The
applications were6 designed to cate6r for6 the area of fenland be6tween Little6port
and Southery, which , while6 highly6 productive agric6ulturally6, w6as6 very
isolated. At pr6esent6 it6 ws practically uncatered for by6 a bus6 ser6vice
THURSDAY
March 12th
1973
The people of Elsenham, near Saffron Walden, regard their pump house highky. When
someone fenced it in they reacted strongly. Withing hours a crowd of 100 villagers
rathered round the fence and minutes later all that remained of it were planks of
wood tossed ito a back garden. The woman who put up the fence watched helplesly as
it was destroyed. Now she and her mother were leaving the village.It was difficult
to find villagers prepared to talk about the incident which revolved around a
village pump house bult by Sir Walter Gilbey in memory of his wife. The pump house
has been used as a meeting place by youths and children for many years. The queston
of who owns it is stil unresolved
1948
Once upn a time four me6mbers6 of the "Cambridge Daily6 Ne6ws6" staff d6eci6ded6
that a certain James6 Pike and6 his6 te6am of "Ne6ws of the World" Champions had
ruled unc6hallenged in the r6ealm of6 d6ar6ts for f6ar6 6too long. And now a6te6r6
a brave6 a6ttempt 6to t6opple th6em from their trhrone the6 f6our gallants6 from
the C.D.N. are bound 6to admit that the time6 has not yet come for Cambridge's
6daily pa6per to de-thron6e these wizards of the d6ar6tboard ... And Jim Pike and6
Co. (w6iping 6the swe6at from their brows) lived hapilly - and6 still unchalle6nged
- ever after
FRIDAY
March 13th
1973
A change in the ssytem of Government financial aid to developing towns will
severely affect industrial schemes in mid-Anglia. Huntingdon councillors were last
night dismayed by the impact of the new system and Mildenhall are seeking talks
with Government to offset the problems it will create for the town.At Haverhll he
council are less worried because industrial expansion is fairly well advanced in
the town. St Neots is not affected because they do not rely on the Greater London
Council for providng these funds. Expanding towns have een borrowing money freely
frm thew G.L.C. to fiancne non-key scheme such as industrial expansion projects.
Now this will be more difficult

1948
Cambridgeshire Cottage6 IMprovement Socie6t6y have urge6d the Ministr6y of Health
to give6 grants towards re6conditioning buildings of6 outs6tanding beatur6y and
historical int6er6es6t. The Old Manor House at Fen Drayton was a building of this
kind and6 r6econditioning would enable three cottages to be made frm two, one6 of
the present cottages being much larger 6than was required. Water mains have
recentl6y been laid in the6 village and the6 property has6 been connected to the
suppl6y so that when r6econditioning is possible modern conveiences will be
practicable. A piped water supply will lso shortly be6 available in Kingston, where
the Societ6y has two cottages, and later in Toft, though the6 main may be se
distance from its property

LOOKING BACK by Mike Petty

MONDAY
16th March
1973

A man died yesterday when a tanker loaded with 6,000 gallons of diesel oil crashed
and exploded on the A11 at Quendon near Saffron Walden. Two others were injured the
crash and the road was blocked for six hours. The crash occurred when a tanker and
an articulated lorry collided head on. Both vehicles went up in the air as they
hit, then the lorry caught fire. Burning fuel flooded down the road and the hedges
caught fire. A pall of smoke rose over the A11. Firemen faced what one described as
"flames rolling down the road towards us". They put out the fires in the hedges and
used foam to control the blazing vehicles.

1948
With the glorious sun shining down on it, and the sheep quietly grazing in the
surrounding meadow, the lovely old church at Great Abington was on Sunday re-opened
after having been closed for nearly two years. It was in 1941 when a bomb fell on
the bridge, which is at the present moment undergoing repairs, that the church
suffered its first shock. Then one was dropped on the Land Settlement, an aircraft
also crashed in the vicinity, and there were one or two other explosions nearby
which finally necessitated the closing of the church in November 1946, as it was
considered unsafe for public worship. The work of restoration was begun in that
year, but then had to be stopped for a time until a few months ago when Messrs
Rattee and Kett Ltd, of Cambridge, were able to re-start and complete it

1923
At the Ely Diocesan conference the question of full reports of divorce court
proceedings in newspapers was discussed and a resolution passed “That this
conference protests against the publicity in the newspapers of full reports of
trials in the divorce courts as being offensive and detrimental”. Mr sells said
they had the advantage over their forefathers by having their sewage taken away
silently and quietly, and it seemed wrong that their moral sewage was not treated
in the same way. It was now allowed to linger about and pollute the air. A friend
had told him of two urchins in a car glancing over the unsavoury details put before
them. It would be impossible to over estimate the harm done to the rising
generation by such things

1898
The annual Tea of the Friends adult school was held in Sturton Town Hall,
Cambridge. The objects of the school are to promote self-help, brotherly kindness,
and a practical Christian life. They had 167 members on the books, 114 at Nelson
Street, 31 at River Lane, and 22 at Swavesey, with an average attendance of 117 in
the three schools on Sunday mornings for the year. It was difficult to get much
interest manifested in the intellectual pursuits by labouring men at the end of a
day's work, although the friends of the school believed if they made efforts in
this direction they would find it a real relaxation. It was much hoped that this
way of employing leisure, so much more sensible and profitable than the absolute
waste of time in comic singing and other senseless amusement in vogue in some of
the young people's guilds, would become more common among them.

TUESDAY
17th March
1973
Cambridge's notorious Trumpington Road - Lensfield Road junction was back to its
old bunged-up state last night, with queues of smoking traffic and frustrated
drivers paralysed by £3,000 worth of new, improved, traffic lights. Having been out
of action for the best part of two months the lights came on again having been
retimed, moved and the traffic flow redesignated by the traffic experts of the
Department of the Environment's Bedford-based traffic unit. The junction's real
test came at teatime and by 5.40 p.m. mutinous drivers were breathing imprecations
through their exhaust fumes. Drivers were saying that 15 minutes had been added to
their travelling time

1948
Mr E. Farmer of Cambridge university gave a lecture to members of the Road Accident
Prevention Council on the effect of alcohol on drivers. A number of moderate
drinkers were selected to train and operate a special machine using skills required
in driving a motor car. At a certain stage in the training alcohol was consumed
under the normal conditions in the bar of a licensed house. Operation of the
machine afterwards showed that men were slightly better after taking alcohol than
before. Mr Farmer thought that the taking of alcohol allowed a great concentration
on the thing they were actually engaged in. Another factor was fatigue. A small
quantity of alcohol would help to overcome this, as the effects of fatigue ran
contrary to the effects of alcohol. "But it should be remembered that 'moderation'
is the key word" he said

1923
In spite of the fact that about 20,000 farm labourers in Norfolk formally went on
strike last night when employers’ notices reducing wages from 6d to 5 1/2d an hour
and increasing the working week from 50 to 54 hours expired, there is still hope of
a settlement by compromise. The organiser of the National Union of Agricultural
Workers says that the men are anxious to avoid strife, but they cannot accept
starvation wages. The basis of settlement to be submitted is that the farmers
should withdraw the wage reduction if the men will agree to the increased hours.
The present plight of farmers and farm labourers throughout the agricultural
depression was the subject of a deputation received by Mr Bonar Law at 10 Downing
Street. The official report of the meeting is being withheld so as not to prejudice
today's negotiations in the Norfolk dispute

1898
A fire broke out in the evening upon premises at the back of the Chequers inn and
adjoining the large wood stores of Mr Thomas Cox, of Gamlingay. A large crowd soon
assembled in the street and by the help of ladders, pails of water were thrown down
the eaves of the house to keep the blaze from spreading. Meanwhile from the street
the same work was carried on, and a large butt of water emptied of its contents. On
the opposite side of the road the inhabitants poured water upon their thatched
cottages to save them from flying sparks. A messenger was hurriedly dispatched for
the Potton fire brigade, who arrived very promptly, but there was no occasion for
them to get the engine to work. Luckily there was no wind, and the barns were old
and soddened, or there must have been a disastrous blaze in the immediate
neighbourhood. One of the greatest constituencies that visiting fire brigades have
to contend with, is a lack of water, and is a plan could be found whereby the large
pond known as The Pits could be kept full, the first steps towards avoiding
tremendous blazes would be made.

WEDNESDAY
18th March
1973
The ghosts of mid-Anglia will provide a job for members of the new Cambridgeshire
County Council when they start their work after April. For the council will have to
look at the organisation of all the old council records and other archives now kept
by the separate Cambridgeshire and Isle of Ely, and Huntingdon and Peterborough
councils. The archives of Huntingdon and Peterborough are managed jointly with
those of Northamptonshire by a single archivist. Cambridgeshire archivist, Michael
Farrar, says "Any solution that involved the separation of the historical Soke
records from those of Northamptonshire is archivally objectionable and next to
impossible".

1948
Pye Ltd, celebrating their golden jubilee this year, are to mark the occasion by
the gift of two television sets to every college in the University. Describing Pye
Ltd as "a fairly important company in the industrial life of Cambridge" Mr C.O.
Stanley said that during the war the firm employed nearly 12,000 people, today they
had between three and four thousand. He went on to speak of the firm's association
with the University - one "so happy and so close that I believe it will always make
a mark with the people working with this business". Professor Sir Lawrence Bragg
said he had always been very interested in the relation between science and
industry and the co-operation that existed during the war showed there were
contributions to be made from both sides. He hoped this co-operation would continue
in the future

1923
The annual dinner and meeting of the Haverhill Cricket Club marked the handing over
of the title deeds in connection with the ownership of the cricket ground, which
through the generosity of the President (Mr J Gurteen), now becomes the property of
the club. Mr Gurteen recalled that for about 40 years the club had played upon its
present ground, but last year, on account of the change of ownership, there was a
risk of this arrangement coming to an end. He had given consideration to the
master, and the outcome was that he himself bought the ground, and he now had the
greatest possible pleasure in presenting it to the club. He made the gift with no
conditions whatever, except that he had nominated his three sons as trustees for
the club, and had arranged that if at any future time the club should become
defunct the trustees should consult the public officials of the town as to the best
means of utilising the ground for sport in the general interests.

1898
At Cambridge town council Mr Negus proposed that they should make inquiries as to
suitable sites for a recreation ground in Romsey Town. He was anxious that this
should be done before the land was all cut up into small plots, a little kindness
and consideration to Romsey would tend to do away with any friction which might
have existed in the past. Mr Swann seconded. If the ground was not so much wanted
now, it would be in the future, as the land was rapidly bought up. Now was the time
the matter should be dealt with for the benefit of future generations. Mr Ward
supported. There were many sites they might have, some expensive and some less so,
but in a few years the price would increase. When they saw the swarms of children
turned out there, and with no playground except in the dangerous streets, he
thought they would decide that they could with perfect safety refer it to the
Committee.

THURSDAY
19th March
1973
Cambridge Water Company may appeal to gardeners and car washers to ration their
water this summer, after the lowest winter rainfall for many years. The deputy
manager of the Company said "We are in the situation where in March we are down to
end-of-summer levels. We have had about only one half of our normal rainfall. And
only a quarter of that has got through to the underground strata. We usually get
ten inches of rainfall in the six winter months. This year, after five months, we
have only had five inches"

1948
Concern as to whether men at the European Voluntary Workers camp, Bottisham, were
getting their correct ration of food was expressed by the Chairman of the Bottisham
magistrates when three of them appeared before the courts on charges involving
bread units. The proceedings took one-and-a-half hours due to the fact that two of
the men spoke German and the other Juoslavian. Each case therefore had to be dealt
with separately. It was said that there has been almost a trade amongst the
Displaced Persons with regard to bread. . They have been going into Cambridge very
frequently and been obtaining the bread at the shops there and taking it back to
the camp where they sell it at the rate of from 2s.6d to 3s. a lb.

1923
The Post Office and Cambridge and Paul Instrument Company social clubs provide a
happy combination which has produced both initiatives and talent. Their dance at
the Cambridge Masonic Hall was a great success, and provided some precedents.
Firstly, the new large room was used for dancing, and for a big assembly was really
excellent. The room itself is much on the same lines as the small room, but as yet
is somewhat too new looking. However, affection for the old room makes one too
ready to criticise the new. The music was equally divided between the two clubs,
the Post Office with Mr Benard Wick’s Tehki orchestra playing for the first half
and the Trocadero Orchestra keeping the ball rolling after the interval unstuck.
Both orchestras were excellent: the first provided the necessary atmosphere and the
second sustained it until the small hours.

1898
Fred Richardson, foreman of the second gangs of lighters belonging to Messrs Brown
and Goodman, met with a serious accident which ultimately proved fatal. It appears
one of the lighters ran aground at Littleport on the same side as the horse. To get
the boat off again block and tackle were fixed on the opposite bank, and the rope
from the boat to the through the pulley to the horse. The rope got entangled around
his neck, quite crushing the windpipe, and the poor fellow was taken more dead than
alive up to the Globe Inn, Littleport where an operation was resorted to. We regret
to learn that Mr Richardson died at three o'clock. The unfortunate victim was
conscious when his friends visited him yesterday

FRIDAY
20th March
1973
Laser-Scan Ltd, who will become the first Cambridge company to move on to the
Trinity Collage science park at Milton Road, are a typical science-based concern.
Founded in 1969 the Company was the brainchild of three Cavendish Laboratory
scientists. They could not afford the type of equipment which could do the work
they wanted, so decided to design their own apparatus and get it made. Within two
years they had established firmly the principles they wished to follow, within two
further years they had built the necessary working equipment, known as a
"sweepnik". However a firm cannot stand still and the firm hopes to be in their
5,000 square feet factory on the Science Park by the end of the summer. As a high-
technology business Laser-Scan are precisely what the planners have in mind for the
science Park. Work on laying the spine road and sewers began this month and
developers hope to have the first phase completed by August. When fully developed
the 13-acre site is planned to provide up to sixteen factory units. Trinity College
expect the final development to provide jobs for up to 1,000 people

1948
"To give a man a decent meal in the middle of the day is better than for him to
take something in paper. He will work better and be more contented". This comment
was made by Ald W.L. Briggs referring to a resolution turning down a request of the
University Press to be supplied by the British Restaurant with mid-day meals for
approximately 35 persons daily as a temporary measure until they could supply their
own cooking facilities. Councillor Roberts pointed out that the Press had now
assumed the dimensions of a factory and should consequently have its own canteen.
Councillor Priest pointed out that it took only 15 minutes for a meal at the
British Restaurant

1923
At Ely Urban Council the chairman reminded them that the question of a new sewage
scheme had been before the Council for a very long time; it went back for 20 or 25
years. It had always been recognised that the existing scheme was antiquated, out
of date, and always gave a great deal of trouble. During periods of storm clouds,
the drains were blocked up, and were unequal to carrying away the storm water,
cellars were flooded, and a great deal of inconvenience was caused generally. The
disposal of sewage was certainly very unsatisfactory. The sewage tank was emptied
twice a year, and it was not regarded as a satisfactory way of dealing with it. By
the new scheme it would be remedied, and, moreover, the river would not be polluted
as it was at present.

1898
A fire of an alarming character broke out in Fowlmere in the small hours. About 10
minutes to one P.C. Housden noticed flames issuing from an unoccupied thatched
cottage, the centre one of three, in the High Street, the property of Mr C.
Papworth, of the Chequers inn. He promptly alarmed the inhabitants and the fire
brigade, and others with the parish fire engine were soon on the spot. Mr J T
Jackson brought his fire engine to the scene, and eventually the fire was got
under, after destroying the cottages and shed. The damage is very considerable.

LOOKING BACK, by6 Mike Petty

MONDAY
23rd March

1973

The Ugandan Asian emergenc6y camp at Stradishall, near Haverhill, ended t6oday, six
nths after those who were forced to flee Presiden6t Amin's regime arrived at the
former RAF camp, peniless, cold, tired and miserablel in the Sep6tember drizzle.
The vicar of Wickambrook, who has organised much of the social resettlement of the
refugees, voiced his deep appreciateion to the people throughout mid-Anglia who
have tken Asians to their homes for weekend visits. Now plans are being made for a
new group of reidents at Stradishall who are unlikely to be allowed to make
approved weekend visits to local homes. From April 1at the camp becomes Home Office
proper6ty in readiness for its conversion to a prison

1948
A remarkable increasing in th elending activities of the Cambridge Building Society
was repoported at the annual meeting. The average deby was £477. The figures were
all the more remakrbale when one considered that the whole of the advances made
since t6he war were on houses already build. The Chairman said "it is a sad state
of affairs that snce the terination of hospilities we have made only 9 advances to
members to build their own homes. The demand for houses is as great as ever and
there would be no limit to our lending capacity if the supply was there. It is for
this reason our secretary has had to refuse many thousands of pounds fro would-be
investors"
TUESDAY
246th March

1973
The Stretham Sunday feast parade which appeared in jeopady earlier this week will
go on the Rev John Hornby said yesterday. Fears that the feast might be cancelled
grew when Mrs Lottie Wright of Eric Wright Haulage of High Street Stretham said
they would not be helping an6y fund-raising activities in the village. Mrs Wright
told the annual parish meeting she t6hought remarks made by councillors about her
firm's safety record were "libellous" and this was why she pulled out. But Mr
Hornby, the village rector said he had an offer of alternative vehicles for the
May6 parade within 24 hours of the announcement

1948
Sir - May6 I remind correspondents that they are expecting their television
receivers to operate satisfactorily under exremely adverse conditions. Not only are
they over 40 miles from Alexandra Palace, which is conidered the optimum distance
for reliable reception, but they are reisdent in areas of high density of
population, with its resultant interference fro all forms of domestic apparatus,
such as reaction receivers, vacuum clearners, thermostatically controlled irons,
cookers and water heaters, electric fans and motors, cars and other heavy road
transport. They are extremely lucky to be anble to receive and signal at all -
Radio Engineer
WEDNESDAY
25th March
1973
Work on the proposed £4 million industrial development scheme for Studlands Park,
Newmarket6, is to begin shortly. The developers, Beadle Property Holdings,
announced tat tenders for 6the first part of the 30-acre project are going out
t6his week. Work is scheduled to begin on the first five 10,000 sq ft factories in
the sumer. The complex, to be known as the Beadle Trading Estate will take four
years t6o complete and will provide jobs for an estimated 1,000 people

1948
Abbey East Social club was formally opened at the Old School, Fen Ditton. In
October 1942 it was decided at the Wardens' Post, Newmarket Road, to form a
committe to make plans for a club to meet the social needs of the area. In the war
people realised they were enjoying something they had not had before - good
fellowship, companionship and geting to know the people who lived next door.
Permission had been given to use an old A.R.P. post near the borough cemetery and
functions had been arranged frm there. The Deputy Mayor said "I do hope it will be
a very successful centre for those on the east side of the bridge. It was a very
sore point that you were so isolated and there was this large estate, which has
grown without any means of getting into the town"
THURSDAY
2sixth March
1973
Captain Aidrian Hudson, a self-confessed Colonel Blimp, and one of the best-known
eccentrics in Cambrdgeshire was found dead last night in his battered caravan home
at Caldecote. About 10 years ago he began a long war of attritiion with all forms
of bureaucracy. He called for the dissolution of Caldecote parish coucil and he
once tried to take a colection of plastic buckets into the public gallery at a
county council mee6ting. Once, when interviewed, he descried himself as "an old
blimp. One of the many Old Blimps knocking around disregarded by pedagogues who
don't know how to run anythig"

1948
The newly-formed Abbey United F.C. Supporters' Club launched out into the social
sphere and their first dance arranged at the Guildhall was gratifyingly successful
and the happy relationship between Abbey and the Cambridge Town F.C. was in
evidence by the presence of representatives of the latter. Approximatly 300 dancers
enjoyed themselves to the music of Len Tibb's band. The Ladies Section of the
Supporters' Club was responsible for the catering and the committee intend that
this effort shall be the first of a series of ocial functions designed to put
Abbey6 United F.C. "on the map"
FRIDAY
27th Mrch
1973
The Pye group intend to maintain their workforce at about 23,six600, the chairman,
Lord Thorneycroft, said today. This followd four years of staff pruning in which
six6,000 people have lost their jobs. Since the Philips takeover in February
19sixtyseven a policy of rationalisation has been carried out in all companies and
operations within the Pye group. Staff cuts were made from a peak of 29,six3six
employees in 19six9.. Over the past five years sales per employee have almost
doubled and trading profit has shot up from 8.4 to 22.4 per cent

1948
Eleven bravegirls came forward at the Rex Ballroom last ight to stake their claim
to the title of Miss Cambridgeshire 1948 at the annual Glamour Bll held there. A
crow of 400 dancers watched the judges make the snap decision as to the girl with
the best looks, nicest figure and so on as the girls stood in t6he full glare of
the limelight. The lucky winner was Mis Eva Simpson of Victoria Road, Cambridge,
and the choice appeared to be a popular one as she received a great ovation as she
was prsented with a silver cup and adorned with the covveted bannerette designating
her "Miss Cambridgeshire 1948"

LOOKING BACK,
MONDAY
March 30
1973
There is a serious housing shortage in Soham, one of the town’s representatives
told the annual parish meeting. “We have been striving to get additional
accommodation for Soham. We are in a very bad condition as far as houses and
bungalows go. The housing list gets longer every month, and we now have a colossal
list”. Work on Palmer’s Field development scheme, consisting of 11 houses and 22
bungalows was expected to start in a month or two. “We hope that early next year we
will have some accommodation with which we can help some of these people on the
housing list”
1948
Some years before the recent war, Cambridge’s New Theatre, having been a “live”
house for over 40 years, not only ceased to be “new” in years but suffered a “sea
change” into something neither rich nor rare - a theatre turned cinema - and
saddled too with the hybrid title “Theatre Cinema”. This was the beginning of a
period that might be described as a winter solstice, for the building eventually
closed, and during the war it was in the hands of the military. But now, after
another brief life as a cinema, it has at last reverted to the type of
entertainment for which it was built, and the merry band of players which yesterday
presented the first professional “live” show to be seen in the theatre for many
years are the successors of a long line of theatre folk, who during the palmy years
passed across the New Theatre’s stage in glorious array. The large audience who
crowded into the building for the reopening found that the theatre with its re-
decoration, modern lighting and stage equipment, including the inevitable “mike”,
had been given a new look
1923
We have received the following statement of the Eastern Counties position in
relation to the national negotiations in the building trades. As from April 14th
1923 the working hours will be 47 hours per week in the summer months and the wages
will be reduced by 2d per hour in London and by 1d an hour in the Eastern Counties.
For labourers the reduction will be three farthings per hour. In Cambridge the new
weekly wage is : craftsmen £3.0s.8 1/2d, painters £2.16s.9 1/2d, labourers
£2.6s.01/2d. The Eastern Counties operatives, who have been fearing reductions of
21/2d, 3d. or even 4d, will no doubt be interested to notice that the actual
reductions are so small that, by working just half an hour extra a day they can get
just as much per week as they did before
1898
An eerie story of a puritan maiden who appeared to a visitor in a house near
Cambridge is recorded in the “Westminster Gazette”. The incidents were recounted by
Mr Ames, who besides being psychic herself, is a writer and lecturer on psychic
matters. “My daughter’s house near Cambridge was an ancient one and on entering it
a feeling of strange discomfort overcame me. That night I dreamed that a puritan
girl, beautiful and sad, sat at the foot of my bed. The story was laughed at by my
family, but strangely the vicar of the place took it quite seriously and by a study
of local records was able to establish that the house had been in the possession of
a Puritan family

TUESDAY
March 31st
The slow release of new building land by both national and local government was
condemned by one of the nation’s leading property developers, Mr Victor Matthews,
when he opened the new £1m. Cambridgeshire Hotel at Bar Hill. He told the “News”
that he could build “at least a dozen Bar Hills” - at £50m a time - in the south of
England if there was land to use. The hotel and sport facilities complex at Bar
Hill is owned by Cundard-Trafalgar Hotels Ltd. He said, “When we took over Bar Hill
five years ago it was a brilliant concept, of an entirely new village, which had
turned sour. He said the whole village, which his group took over from the original
developers, would cost £50M by the time it was complete
1948
“Palatial” factory saloons are threatening the livelihood of Cambridge
hairdressers, Mr J.R.E. Spink, a local hairdresser, told the annual conference of
the National Hairdressers Federation. He said that one or two factories in the
Cambridge district had opened the beautifully conducted saloons which local
hairdressers themselves would have been proud to own. He had spoken to the managing
director of one such factory who said “My factory is open from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm.
The business hours of hairdressers are 9am to 5.30pm. Where are my men going to get
their hair cut”. The Federation’s National Organiser said factory hairdressing was
wrong because men were having their hair cut when they should be engaged on the
productive work for which they were being paid
1923
The forthcoming production by the Bijou amateurs brings into prominence once again
a club that has held a big position in the life of Cambridge for the last 50 years.
I 1870 Mr W B Redfern founded the Bijous, who took over premises on Peas Hill,
where for many years was provided the only dramatic performance in Cambridge that
were given with any regularity. As time went on the club found that the old Peas
Hill theatre was not big enough for them and finally removed to the old skating
rink in St Andrews’s street, on the site of which the present New Theatre was
built. It was not until 1881 that ladies were introduced into the cast, the female
parts having before that date being taken by men.
1898
Mr William Howlett, of Newmarket, has recently recorded the capture of several pole
cats (an animal asserted to be almost extinct) in the fen district. No doubt the
fens are the last stronghold of this animal. He says they exist largely upon eels
and frogs in the “dykes”, but when these are sealed by frost, they go up to the
farmsteads, and cause great loss among the poultry.
WEDNESDAY
April 1st
1973
Goldie, the Cambridge University shadow Boat Race crew, sank in the Thames today.
The crew were recovered by a police launch, but the boat has not yet been
recovered. The Cambridge oarsmen were unaccompanied when they went down at Barnes
Elms Reach, and had to swim for their lives until a police launch arrived. Said a
Tideway expert: “I don’t know why Goldie went out. The conditions were atrocious
and no eight should have undertaken a row. They did not have a coach’s launch with
them and I understand the crew were in the water for about a quarter of an hour
before they were picked up by a police launch”. The sinking is the latest in a
series of blows to the Light Blues as they prepare for Saturday’s Boat Race
1948
Some of the proud achievements of the Cambridge Electric Supply Company were
recalled at the last meeting of the Company at the University Arms. The Company
ceased to exist from April 1st having been absorbed by the Eastern Electricity
Board, one of 14 boards set up under the new Electricity Act. The Cambridge company
is one of the oldest in the electricity supply industry, and first started work of
supplying electricity to the citizens of Cambridge in 1892. Today over 25,000
consumers are supplied with electricity by the Company at prices which compare more
than favourably with those made in towns similar in size
1923
A retired Norfolk farmer gives his views upon the agricultural situation in that
County. “Unless the spring crops are sown at an early date there will be no harvest
for the workers, and if there is no harvest there will be no straw, with the result
that next winter very reduced quantities of stock will be kept on the farms. The
farmer realising this, appreciate the fact that should this result occur there will
be no necessity for a root crop. This is in no wise a threat it is simply a warning
to the workers as to the possible result of their action. The ordinary townsman
says that 25s. per week is not enough to live on, but he does not grasp the fact
that the worker receives double wages during the harvest, and extra money for
piecework and overtime. In addition, he has a cottage at a nominal rent, varying
from 3s to nothing a week, which includes a garden. In numerous cases the worker is
supplied with milk and butter at cost price. Altogether his perequisite are worth
anything from 8s to 10s per week.

1898
Mr Cecil Johnstone, who has been postmaster of St Ives for so many years, has been
promoted to the postmaster of Wellingborough. Mr Johnstone has been postmaster for
15 years, and succeeded his father, who held the office for 30 years. Mr
Johnstone’s departure is regretted by all St Ives, and especially by the employees
at the Post Office.

THURSDAY
April 2ndi

1973
A rota for extracting water from rivers for crop irrigation and controls on the use
of domestic water are among the suggestions put forward by farmers to counteract
the water shortage crisis in the Great Ouse river basin. Mr Derek Crawley stressed
that farmers argued it seemed unfair that there should be a ban on supplies which
were needed for their livelihood when there were no controls on car washing or
garden hoses. The river authority pointed out that it is important to keep river
flows to a certain level in order that there was the necessary level of dilution to
check pollution and ensure the dilution of sewage outlets into the rivers. Already
the Ouse at Denver is the lowest since 1934 when records started
1948
Yesterday saw the passing of the National Fire Service which had been administered
from the Home Office since March 1941. Under the provision of the Fire Services Act
of 1947 the Cambridgeshire County Council assumed the responsibility for the
provision and maintenance of fire-fighting services for the county, and the
occasion was marked by a transfer ceremony at No.1 Station, Newmarket Road,
Cambridge

1923
Rumours were current in Peterborough that a local soldier who was reported as
missing on November 13th 1916, and afterwards presumed killed on the same date, had
returned home. Unfortunately the rumours were incorrect, but on Wednesday his
mother received a letter addressed from “The Hospital, London”, stating the son was
alive and would soon be home. This was followed by another letter the next day
headed “Waiting room, Peterborough”, concerning the previous communication. In the
first letter the writer says “Madam - I am writing to tell you that your son will
soon be home with you. Don't turn any stranger from your door, as you won't know
him. We have been together since 1916. He has got me to write to you and gave me
this address. Enclosed in the letter was a piece of notepaper in the handwriting of
the son. Immediately on the receipt of the latter she informed the elder son. He
left work at once and caught the next train to London but was unable to gain any
authentic information about his brother.

1898
Sir - the new bridge at Abbey Road Cambridge
Everyone admits it now. Boats and plants have
away with. Omnibuses of first class order are
convenient places, and at low prices, for the
has become a supreme necessity.
had their day, and should be done
unable to carry people to most
want of another bridge to bring them
into Cambridge. What enormous advantages to both Chesterton and Cambridge another
bridge at this spot holds out. The great increase in traffic calls loudly for
another bridge. The people near the Abbey again insisted upon another bridge but
the Cambridge Rip Van Winkles sleep on, oblivious of anything. Procrastination is
the great curse of Cambridge, and Chesterton should take warning by keeping abreast
with the requirements of this important suburb – Chestertonian

FRIDAY
April 3rd
1973
Proposals to eat into the Green Belt between Cherry Hinton and Fulbourn to help
solve the Cambridge city housing problems were given a rough ride yesterday by
Chesterton Rural District Council, who are responsible for much of the area
involved. The proposals include a 1,200 unit housing programme for a 105-acre site
on the borders of the city and Chesterton rural district. They would be built to
meet the city’s housing needs up to 1978. Land outside the city was investigated
recently by the city and county planning authorities who favoured the Cherry Hinton
site - but Chesterton councillors were upset at the likely intrusion into the green
belt

1948
“An aspiration set too high for practical achievement in these days of Government
interference” was how the Chairman of the Cambridge Old People’s Homes Ltd
described the position of the Society at the present time. The possibility of
having to wind up the Society was openly discussed. The committee had abandoned a
scheme for the erection of a home in Queen Edith’s Way owing to building costs
having soared. They had explored the possibility of converting existing property
and careful thought had been given to Hinxton Hall and detailed sketch plans of the
interior prepared. It was pointed out that a place nine miles away from Cambridge
which old people’s friends would have some difficulty in reaching was not “ideal”

1923
A summer like morning and a fair, if dull, afternoon made Good Friday in Cambridge
a good day for lovers of the great outdoors. So good was the weather that many were
to be seen on the river and Messrs Banham’s motor launch trip to Clayhithe
consisted of quite a comfortable load. Footballers spent a glorious time on
Parker’s Piece whilst one 1,700 watched the Town play the old Bancroftians on the
Town ground. Young Cambridge spent a happy time on Parker’s Piece indulging in the
traditional skipping, and the litter of paper and orange peel told its own tale.
There was plenty of evidence of a heavy road traffic. Allotment holders were, of
course, not slow to take advantage of the good day given them.

1898
Newmarket cycle club spent a very enjoyable evening at the Crown Hotel, at their
annual dinner. Mr Aldridge said the club had been very successful in the past, and
he hoped it would have a more successful future. He expressed the hope that some of
the younger members would take up racing. It was of no use arranging club runs its
the members did not turn out to take part of them. The opening run of the season
would be to Clayhithe and he hoped to see a good muster. They now had five ladies
in the club, and he should like to see the number increased to 50. At Clayhithe a
club house would be open for the use of the members during the season

Looking back, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
April 6th
1973
Shoplifting amongst schoolchildren is a "sport" which is growing, said to the
President of Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, Mr Jack Newbon. "Its is not something
that just happens. It is calculated. They come down to town from school having
already planned on what they intend to do, and then pilfer goods. People who say
that this is something that happens on the spur of the moment do not know about the
calculation that goes into this sort of thing", he declared

1948
Six Mile Bottom is such a quiet place and the lack of activity was so getting down
Bertie, the red-poled bull at Lord Delamere's farm, that he decided to take a walk
into the big outside world and see for himself just what was going on. Over the
fields he walked and soon came to the Cambridge-Newmarket road, turned left and
ambled on towards Cambridge. Bertie then became a little panicky and made a hasty
rush for Bottisham, turning into the fist courtyard he saw. This happened to be the
back of Mr J. Bedford's grocery stores and he made a rush at Mrs Bedford who
suffered slight injuries to her forehead and knees.

1923
If I am asked to point out to the public the danger of getting rid of their war
relics by placing them amongst their refuse. Thoughtlessness of this kind might
have serious consequences for the men working at the Corporation destructor. No
less than eight live cartridges were found in one load recently, and fortunately
they were discovered before they reached the destructor. People should think twice
before depositing explosives amongst their rubbish, and in this way endangering the
lives of those who removed and destroy it

1898
About a thousand people assembled on the Quay, St Ives, to witness the public
baptism of two young women in the river Ouse. One of the oldest and best-known
chapels in the town is the Crown Yard Baptist chapel. The congregation attending
there pin their faith to immersion in baptism. Unlike most chapels of the same
persuasion, they have not their place of worship fitted up for this form of
baptism; hence the adjournment to the river. The members of the congregation made
their way to the river side, a good many of them being permitted to go inside the
railings surrounding the Masonic Temple, from which a good view of the baptism was
obtained. They found a large concourse of people assembled, the bridge itself was
crowded with people; out of the windows protruding heads viewed the scene while on
the other side of the stream a good many people had collected.

TUESDAY
April 7th
1973
The villages bordering Cambridge have earned the "necklace" prefix because of their
obvious connections with the city. Thousands of commuters have migrated further
into the countryside during recent years and some of the once-sleepy villages have
had to swallow huge dormitory populations. But, almost without exception they have
fought to retain their rural independence and fiercely resisted the take-ver
ambitions of Cambridge City Council. Now with the county planners talking of
another 100 acres for council housing at Cherry Hinton the city council may abandon
their fight to expand the Cambridge boundaries

1948
The creation of a new county comprising the four administrative councils of
Cambridgeshire, Isle of Ely, Huntingdon and the Soke of Peterborough, and the
granting to the town of Cambridge the status of a county borough, are amongst the
recommendations contained in the report of the Local Government Boundary
Commission. The proposals also suggest that Newmarket Urban District Council should
be transferred to the new county

1923
 As a frequent visitor to the Cambridge Free Library, I have noticed with interest
the very good use to which the reference library is put. It is especially
satisfying to notice the number of school teachers and senior scholars who spend
their Saturday mornings there, and this I have observed at the Mill Road branch as
well as the Central Library, showing that the Cambridge library is, as it should
be, a valuable auxiliary to the educational machine. The Mill Road Library was the
worst sufferer in the necessary economies of wartime and is to receive preferential
treatment in consequence.

1898
Dr D Owen Mead said he had been Medical Officer of Health for the Newmarket Urban
District Council for 12 years, and that during that time the drainage had been
faulty. There had been frequent complaints made, and illness had been caused in the
town by the defective drainage. The present main drain from Wellington Street to
the sewage farm gave a great deal of trouble and the sewers along Lower Station
Road were faulty. The population had increased considerably near the sewage farm,
and complaints had been made with regard to the “aroma” arising therefrom. A
voice: “Just a little bit sniffy (laughter)

WEDNESDAY
April 8th
1973
Mr Jack Baldry, chairman of Cambridge’s last remaining soft drinks factory died
yesterday at the age of 71. He started as a mineral water manufacturer in the city
50 years ago. When the company was started it faced competition from 32 firms in
the city. Initial output was 100 dozen bottles a day, but business increased and
four years ago a new plant was built which enabled an output of 400 dozen bottles
an hour on each of its two units

1948
If farmers from all the countries of the world had been present at a dinner given
by Pest Control Ltd at the University Arms Hotel, Cambridge, there would have been
universal satisfaction at the speech by the Company's managing director. For he
announced the complete overpowering of one of the farmers' most deadly enemies -
weeds. "Being a pioneering firm working in Cambridge we have applied a pioneering
role in the developing of selective weedkillers,” he said. They showed a film
"Gentle Menace", taken at Harston.

1923
For the purpose of putting before the public the point of view of the strikers in
the building trade, a meeting was held on Parker's Piece where there was a very
large attendance. Mr Haynes said that 44 hours a week were enough for any of them
to work. They had to remember that every man who was not with them was against
them. In the event of the building operatives going down in the struggle, the
railway men and workers in every other industry would have to look out, for the
employers everywhere were out to reduce wages to a lower level than they were
before the war. Urging the need of the workers standing together, Mr Overton said
they were either partners in each other's poverty, or partners in each other's
prosperity. The Trades Council were asking the other trade unions to come to the
support of the building trade workers.

1898
A shepherd named William Facer, of Houghton, has had a remarkable experience in St
Ives this week. On Monday, like a good many more in this neighbourhood, he attended
St Ives market. On Tuesday morning he discovered he had lost two £5 notes. He
enquired at different places if the precious bits of paper had been seen. Among the
places visited was Mr Hewson’s, the pork butcher in Merryland. On Tuesday a boy
swept out the shop. He picked up the bits of paper about the floor, and was about
to light the fire with them, when his attention was attracted to two pieces by
their crispness. He smoothed out the crumpled bits of paper and loh they were two
£5 notes. The note must have lain on the floor a while scores of people went in and
out and did not see them. Facer may thank his stars the notes were found by good
honest folk, and also that they were not burnt without being noticed

THURSDAY
April 9th
1973
The Market Square ends of Guildhall street and Peas Hill, Cambridge, were closed to
traffic today as part of city council's plans eventually to make much of the
central area into a pedestrian precinct. It is now possible to walk from Sidney
Street to King's Parade without crossing a road. City surveyor, Mr Geoffrey
Cresswell said that some motorists were still driving round Market Square
attempting to get into Peas Hill. The present closure is officially regarded as
only "temporary" - although it will last for possibly another two years - while
rebuilding of the adjacent Lion Yard site is under way

1948
The recommendation that Cambridgeshire, the Isle of Ely, Huntingdonshire and the
Soke of Peterborough should be grouped as one administrative council has already
started tongues wagging in all areas. The proposals have been received with mixed
feelings, and have provoked many questions. The Isle of Ely and Peterborough papers
think March would be a good centre for the new authority. Cambridgeshire County
Councillors may have other ideas!

1923
Speaking to Cambridge Rotary Club Dr H B Roderick compared Addenbrooke's Hospital
50 years ago with today. In 1872 the average stay in hospital was 37.87 days and in
1922 to it was 27.46 days, so that with practically the same number of beds, owing
to the more rapid turnover due to shortened convalescence, they were are able to
deal with a considerable number more patients. In 1922,2,376 operations were
performed, and 2,231 in-patients and 4523 outpatients were treated. This great
increase in work naturally involves increased demands both on the medical,
surgical, and nursing staffs of the hospital, as well as on its financial
resources. The present operating theatre was constructed in 1897 and today it is
out of date. Two theatres, on modern lines, are urgently needed in order to cope
with the ever-increasing work.

1898
On Wednesday afternoon a servant at Mrs Emma Hagger’s farm at Kingston, saw that
the roof of the barn was well alight and at once gave the alarm. Ready help was
given, but the farm buildings and almost everything but the livestock was lost. It
is supposed that the outbreak was caused by a spark from a passing traction engine
upon the dry roof of the barn. Such an engine passed about five minutes before the
alarm was given

FRIDAY
April 10th

1973

The village shop is alive and well, say the British Tourist Authority. And to prove
it they have picked out the village shop and post office at Gt Abington. The shop,
run by retired R.A.F. squadron leader Jack Armitage, has been highlighted in an
article in the magazine "In Britain". Since he and his wife took over the shop they
have modernised the inside but left the old front as it was to blend in with the
rest of the village. Since they took over three years ago takings have almost
doubled. "I am sure there will always be a place for the village shop", she said

1948
The last production of what is known as the German Youth Stage at Trumpington
P.O.W. camp before they go home in June will be given at the Houghton Hall. It will
be a performance of the classical comedy "Der Zerbrochene Krug". Not only will it
be acted outside the camp, but amongst the cast of 12 will be four British girls.
The play will be acted in German but an introduction in English is provided. The
performance will be open, without charge, to anyone who may be interested.

1923
A Cambridge boy, P S Milner-Barry, son of the late Professor Milner-Barry of De
Freville Avenue, Chesterton, won the title of the first British boy chess champion.
The title, which has been authorised by the British Chess Federation, was open to
boys up to 18 years of age. Milner-Barry who is only 16 1/2 years of age,
represented Cheltenham College in the competition, but his success also reflects
credit on his old school, St Faith's preparatory, and the Cambridge town chess
club, of which he is the youngest member

1898
At the vestry meeting of St Paul’s church, Cambridge the chairman said that every
Sunday morning their quiet communion service was greatly disturbed by the Roman
Catholic Church bells. When they first started they hoped they would get used to
them, but, as they continued to disturb them he took the opportunity of speaking to
the Roman Catholic priest, and he said he would consult his congregation. But for a
long time he could get no response, but afterwards he replied that the St Paul's
bells rang for five minutes before eight o'clock, and disturbed the Roman Catholic
service. The speaker had given orders that St Paul's bell should be wrung for half
a minute to warn the people, and half a minute when the service was to commence,
and expressed a hope that the Roman Catholic priest would see his way to having his
rung for a short time only. This he refused to do, and so every Sunday morning half
the St Paul's quiet service was disturbed by the ringing of the Roman Catholic
bells. Mr Catling also spoke of the noisy bells of the Catholic Church, and the
disturbance caused to those living around

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
April 13th
1973
Bomb disposal experts have been alerted following reports of two explosions under a
council house at Southoe, near St Neots. The tenant, Mr Reg Darnell, now believes
that is home was built on top of a stick of small anti-personnel bombs which were
dropped in the area during the war. He said "I can well remember the bombs being
dropped. They didn't go off and were dug up next day from the field where my house
now stands. I am convinced that some of the bombs are underneath the place and
that's what caused the explosions". He was having a quiet pint in the village pub
when the explosion happened. About 10 minutes later there was another even louder
explosion. It was just like a bomb going off

1948
History was made at the New Theatre, Cambridge, last night when the International
Ballet Company presented the most spacious classical ballet spectacle ever to be
seen in Cambridge. And the result was an evening of sheet beauty. A company of over
sixty presented a performance outstanding for its virility and attack, and there
was a first class orchestra - their numbers made it necessary for them to
"overflow" from the orchestra pit into adjoining boxes and the stalls. The work
last night was the full-length version of "The Swan Lake". Leading the superb
company is the prima ballerina Mona Inglesby

1923
At the Annual dinner of the Rob Roy Boat Club the mayor (Counc. G.H. Lavender) said
his memory of rowing went back 42 years ago. He was one of the founders of the old
Argonauts. They had a difficulty in getting sufficient men to man the boats, but
they used to get up at five in the morning and get on the river by six. “I remember
that a lot of objectionable matter used to get into the river from the gas works.
You can imagine that we did not like to get into that. (Laughter). One day I went
down in a canoe, and fell into the middle of it. I was very glad to get out, for it
wasn't lavender water”(Renewed laughter).

1898
Mr Dixon said that Mill Road cemetery was always locked up on Sundays, because, if
not, swarms of little children rampaged about over the graves; and while he was
conducting a funeral it was very annoying to have some little urchins come up and
say, "Oh, my! Ain't that a little coffin!”. The children jumped about over the
graves, while labourers going to work made the cemetery a thoroughfare. The matter
was giving the committee a great deal of trouble.

TUESDAY
APRIL 14th
1973
The £2 1/4 m complex for the Cavendish Laboratory on Madingley Road, Cambridge, was
declared open by the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. A.W.Deer. Large earth
banks will hide the new Cavendish site from the Cambridge Inner Relief Road, if it
is ever built, and it is hoped the University will not continue to crowd buildings
in upon the new site until it achieves another science slum like that left behind
in Downing Street

1948
The nocturnal appearance of a sack of barley in the front garden of the house of a
Burwell baker on a dark and rainy night last month, had an unexpected and involved
sequel at the Newmarket Petty Sessions when a baker, together with a Burwell
stockman appeared to answer a total of four summonses. The baker denied he had
broken the law. "It was a rough night - dark and rainy when I opened my gate and
kicked against a bag. I took it in so that it would not be left in the wet. The
policeman called next morning". The case was found proved and he was fined £2

1923
The question of artificial wreaths came again under serious consideration at the
quarterly meeting of the Ely burial board. The Clerk explained the board's position
regarding its powers relatives to artificial wreaths and grave markers. The matter
arose out of the application by a family to place upon the grave a small marble
heart shaped as a token of respect. The Clarke said that in the town from whence
the application came, Sheringham, it was customary to allow artificial wreaths, and
he expressed the opinion that artificial wreaths were very liable to crack, get out
of order, tumble to pieces, and become very unsightly.

1898
A man was charged with stealing one pair of stockings, valued at 9d, the property
of the Cambridge Guardians. Lazarus Marsh, detective, said that that morning he saw
prisoner leave the workhouse with his wife. Witness had suspicion, and took him
back to the waiting room, where he searched him, and in a tin he found a pair of
socks, which the prisoner said were his own. Prisoner was at that time wearing a
pair of stockings, and underneath them a pair of black stockings. The master
identified them as being Workhouse property. The tops where they were marked had
been cut off. The magistrate were not satisfied that the evidence was sufficient
and the prisoner was discharged

WEDNESDAY
April 15th
Nurses at Chesterton Hospital have dreaded what might happen if flames gripped the
most vulnerable of their wards. Sister Pat Hough, of Harston ward, said, "Our ward
has 19 continuous care patients. It has a wooden floor and it is above the
kitchen". But yesterday she was a lot happier after a mock fire exercise at the old
people's home in which a new invention came through its first test. The invention -
a harness that lies under the mattress and clicks like a car safety belt into an
emergency hammock for the patient - is the brain child of the Hospital's fire
officer. She said: "The first patient was down the fire escape 35 seconds after the
alarm went off. That is about four times quicker than we could have expected if we
had used the conventual method"

1948
Sir - in answer to your correspondent "Still waiting" the simple answer is that in
December 1945 we had received applications from 1,700 ex-servicemen who were in
temporary accommodation and that we have since that date succeeded in building just
about 800 houses. I sympathise with "Mother of Two". Lodgings are almost impossible
to get with a family of two. "Still Hoping” was married in 1942 and only put his
name down in 1946. In that interval something like 3,000 applicants put down their
names. No one already secure in the tenancy of a house is considered for selection
unless the house is comparable with the condemned property in Gothic Street and
Doric Street. - Alex Wood

1923
At Saffron Walden council the police reported difficulty in dealing with
stallholders attending the pleasure fairs which are held twice yearly on the
common. Some of them arrive on a Thursday night previous to the pleasure fair on
the Saturday; consequently the inhabitants are put to a good deal of inconvenience
and annoyance. Before the fair people are allowed to go on the common on Saturday
morning the caravans begin to arrive at the entrance and owing to the narrow
streets they are obstructed for three hours by these caravans and it is sometimes
difficult to regulate the traffic to them. The police are obliged to bring officers
in from adjoining houses for the purpose of regulating traffic and keeping order,
thereby depriving the inhabitants of such carriages of these protection at a time
when they are in most need of it. The police will have to consider whether in the
future they will be able to give adequate police assistance during the time these
fares are held.

1898
Chesterton school was crowded to hear the details of the vicar’s offer respecting
the Old Town Close. Seldom have we seen such a unanimous gathering or a more
enthusiastic one. The meeting had been called concerning the bit of land on the
other side of the school. The chairman declared that it had been a public piece of
ground all his life, his youthful play having been enjoyed there over half a
century ago. For the land to be taken away like it had been he could not
understand. Now it was to be turned into a Nursery garden, and cries of "Shame"
shook the cobwebs in the corner of the roofs. The Vicar said he should like to
leave something in the parish as a remembrance of him, and had come to the
conclusion that nothing could be better than handing over this ground to the
managers of the school for the benefit of the children. He was quite sure the land
would be a blessing to them for many years to come. (Cheers)

THURSDAY
April 16th
1973
The Conservative and Labour parties have both failed to gain overall control of the
new Cambridgeshire County Council. Instead of one political party ruling the big
new county the balance of power will be in the hands of a centre group of
Independents and Liberals. New councillor Mrs Jean Willmer of the Huntingdon rural
division said: "People have begun to realise that party politicians are sometimes
not as sincere as Independents". Now with the election over there is a two-week
lull before the first meeting of the new Cambridgeshire County Council on May 1st.
Much of the rest of this year will be spent in appointing officers ready for the
final take-over on April 1 1974

1948
For four offences of accepting sweet coupons one day before they were valid a
Cambridge confectioner was fined £4 by Huntingdon magistrates. Defendant said "I
admit I cut them out. It's only one day before the new period begins. People asked
me to let them have sweets, as most of them live in the country and want them for
the week-end"

1923
An interesting scheme with wide possibilities is embodied in the establishment of a
co-operative dairy school by a committee of Cambridgeshire farmers, which was
formally opened on Tuesday afternoon. In co-operation with the farmers,
Cambridgeshire education committee have arranged for courses of instruction in
cheese making and dairying to be held at the school, which is temporarily in
premises on Newmarket Road. The instruction period will extend over four months,
and the dairy will then be carried on by the farmers on a commercial basis. During
that period the milk is being supplied by the farmers supporting the scheme who
will take the cheeses

1898
James Stendall and co.ltd. The preservation of local industries is of moment to
all who have the welfare of Cambridge at heart. The University town can boast of
but few factories, and it is with pleasure that we see the above firm has been
formed into a company, with ample premises and up to date machinery. We see no
reason why the company should not develop into a large and profitable business
concern, according employment for many hands

FRIDAY
April 17th
1973

When 80-year old Louis Sylvester died a secret died with him. For more than sixty
years Cambridge people marvelled at the irresistible ice cream that "Lew" of Milton
Road, Cambridge, made in the family business he took over from his father. His son
Tony said, "Nobody has ever made ice cream like dad. He won diplomas at Olympia for
it. I used to help him but only he knew the secret. It is the end of the line now”.
No other people in Cambridge run that sort of business. When Mr Sylvester left his
shop four years ago his departure marked the end of 100 years of the Sylvester ice-
cream business

1948
The Cambridge Marriage Guidance Council has now been in existence for some 21/2
years. In that time 200 cases have been seen. The majority of them came under the
heading of marital disharmony. It is not surprising to learn that amongst younger
people the housing problem takes its place as the major cause of disharmony. In
nearly every case of a young couple being in trouble it has been fund that they
have never had a home of their own. "Two generations", it is stated "were never
meant to live together". Sexual ignorance, the upset of the war and lack of
religious outlook are mentioned as other causes
1923
A Commission has been appointed by the Bishop of Ely to inquire into the
desirability of uniting the beneficiaries of Madingley and Dry Drayton. They held a
local inquiry when the question was fully considered. The congregation of Madingley
was 50 in the morning and 60 in the evening. The Madingley churchwardens presented
a petition bearing the signatory of 103 persons protesting and objecting to the two
churches being united. Colonel Harding said, “I can tell you that as far as
Madingley is concerned they would prefer that no union should take place”

1898
Sir - I have read with amusement the report which appeared in the Cambridge Daily
News. Royston football players have not the slightest objection to their play being
criticised, but they do expect that those to play the part of critic should, at
least, show that they possess an elementary knowledge of the game, and should at
any rate give an accurate account of the game. The obvious conclusion is that the
writer of the report fully expected the smart team from Cambridge (the Swifts),
with two or three county men, to make rings around the Roystonians and was very
chagrined when he found the homesters more than held their own. Let us hope your
correspondents will endeavour to educate himself in the rudiments of the game and
you will try to be fair to both sides, and show in his report something of that
sportsmanlike attitude that he wishes to see in others – R.S. Trudgett

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
April 20
1973

Cambridge water reserves are now lower than at the end of a normal summer,
Cambridge Water Company disclosed yesterday. Offcials who have been monitoring
supply and demand very carefully during the exceptionally dry winter are now hoping
for the sort of summer deluge which will make garden hoses redundant and car
washing a waste of time. The average Cambridge rainfall is 22 inches a year but in
the 12 months ended March 31st there were only 13 inches. A spokeman said "We are
certainly lower than at any timem on record nd we don't know just how our sources
will react. But there is no cause for alarm at the moment

1948
The rise to fame of a "contemptible" littleboat
Cafe when some 150 people sat down to dinner to
Cambrdge Scouts' Boat Club. The Club Secretary,
Boat Club said they were deeply appreciative of
boathouses, boats and oars, and continued to do
oars were practically unobtainable now
club was recalled at the Dorothy
celebrate the Silver Jubilee of the
proposing a toast to King's College
their help. They had loaned
so despite the fact that tboats and

TUESDAY
April 21st
1973
Every day 83-year old Mr Percy Hoare picks up his buckets and makes his way
cautiously along 30 yards of uneven path to collect his daily ration of water.
Should he glance up as he fills the uckets from a stand pipe he might be excused a
cynical smile. For just a few feet in front of him is a brand new pumping station
of the Lee Valley Water Company which each day pumps thusands of gallons offresh
water all over the district. But not to Percy : he and the nine other reidents of
Silver Row at Wendens Ambo near Saffron Walden are still waiting for the water to
be connected to their homes. His landlord points out tat the rents were very low.
Mr Hoare pays £11.68 rent for six months
1948
A particular role of the Territorial Army should atomic warfare break out ws
mntioned by Lt-Col F.N.Drake Digby in a speech at Cambridge Rotary Club. "It is
visualised that on the outbreak of any future war the Territorian Army will hav
ebeen trained to render assistance to areas devastated by atomic or biological
warfare", Col Digby said. For this reason it is to be closely related to civil
defence ND DETAILS ARE NOW BEING WORKED OUT"
WEDNESDAY
April 22nd
1973
Helicopter rescue units at United States Air Force bases at Alconbury and
Lakenheath are to close down. There has been a rescue unit at Alconbury since 1968
when it was transferred from a base in Germny. The unit is closing down because of
a re-arrangement of the U.S.A.F. rescue services, says the Alconbury base newspaper
"Photogram". All rescue personnel aeto be given new jobs

1948
The belief that the problems of evaculation, separation and marriage arsing out of
the Second World War would contnue to exist for a whole generation was expressed at
the meeting of the Cambridge Central Aid Society. "Many of the families concerned",
says the annual report, "are struggling against disintegration, but the presence of
old and perhaps infirm relations in the same cramped rooms as young children and
young parents makes the fight a hard, uphill business, UUntil more nd more houses
and dflats are ready these family trobles appear likely to continue"
THURSDAY
April 23rd
1973
Hilton parish council do not trust the county planners. They have brought out their
own village plan, months before any firm proosals by the county. Their main worry
is that the character of the village, near St Ives, may be destroyed by
overdevelopment, says the parish council clerk, Mr Maurice Furniss. The vilage
proosals criticise Huntngon and Peterborough County council planners and claim
"they may not be sensitive to the environmental aspects ofthe village". The Parish
council are concerned the planners may not have considered the need, with a more
than doubling of the population, to provide sites for shops and other services
1948
The many friends of Mr Robert William Bell, auctioneer and estate agent, will learn
with regret of his death. He came to Cambridge 35 years ago and became recognised
as one of the best auctioneers in Cambs. He was partcularly well known not only on
account of his business, in which he had a great many connections with agriculture,
but also because of his preaching activities in most of the Baptist chapels in the
area. Mr Bell loved horses and was a familiar sight in days gone by with his horse
and gig, whch he reluctantly gave up when motor cars became the fashion
FRIDAY
April 24th
1973
In the ordinary course of events Gerald Brown of Great Gransden is a farmer who
goes about his work without anyone taking much notice. But in common with others he
greatly cares for the centuries-old village church of St Bartholomew. So when the
weather cock on top o th ssteeple became dangerous dring the recent gales, it was a
quiet farmer who volunteered to become a steeple jack to put matters right. Helped
by the Vicar, Rev W. Harbury, and others he climbed the 100 twisting stone steps to
the top of the tower. The party then had to haul up two ladders by rope and Gerald
climbed to the top of the spire. The cock was leaning at a crazy angle. He carried
out the repairs, oiled it and now hopes it will be at least abother 40 years before
it again needs repairing

1948
The Minister of National Insurance, Mr James Griffiths, spoke about the new scheme
and said "We are confident that we can do our job if we get the co-operation of the
public". He said that the Cambridge office would admnister under the new scheme the
insurance benefits of approximately 158,000 people. Under existing insurance scheme
thee wer six type sof benefit and under the new one, 16 types. The complexity of
the task was added to by the introduction of new rates of benefit. Whereas up to
July a man got 18s a week on a plain straight sickness benefit claim,, he would,
the next week, receive 2sixs. for himself, 16s for his wife and 7ssixd for his
first or only child

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
27th April

1973
The scheme to build a hypermarket for Tesco on the outskirts of Cambridge has been
rejected by the city council. The scheme was put forward on behalf of Tesco by
Stokes of Cambridge Ltd. They asked permission to build a 100,000 square foot
hypermarket with a car park for 900 cars on land off Milton Road next to the
railway line. The store would have been one of the largest in Cambridge. In turning
it down the planning committee said it was outside the area allocated for
development, would encourage extra traffic on a fast trunk route and was against
the shopping policy for Cambridge in which large scale development is aimed at the
Fitzroy Street - Burleigh Street area

1948
Dr Alex Wood, chairman of the Cambridge Housing Committee spoke of the factors
which had largely created the housing problem in Cambridge. There had been an
influx of a very large number of people whose property elsewhere was destroyed
during the war and they had settled in the area. The second "complication" was that
the University was being urged by the Government to take larger numbers of
students, thus adding to the competition for the housing accommodation available.
"In the third place there is a very large increase in the Civil Service personnel
in Cambridge,” said Dr Wood amongst laughter. "While we like them all very much
personally, they do complicate our problem"

1923
Speaking at Romsey Town Football Club dinner the mayor of Cambridge said he thought
that they did not always receive the support of the sporting crowds that they
might. On Monday evening they had two very representative teams on Parker's Piece,
and a crowd of something like 2,000 to 3,000 people, but their collection amounted
to the enormous sum of £5 3s. Of that some £3 15s. was in coppers which included
two farthings.

1898
The third meeting of the Eastern District Tactical Society was held at Newmarket
and orders issued for an exercise in the open country. The general idea was that a
Western army was advancing from Cambridge with the object of driving an Eastern
army out of Bury St Edmunds. This gave commanders of regiments some useful
experience in the organisation of columns of march, some of the troops being
supposed to be located at Cambridge, and others around Newmarket. On Thursday the
central position was Cheveley, and the outpost were formed along the line,
Limekilns, Cheveley, Kirtling. The members of the Society were engaged in working
out the dispositions, and the exercises concluded with some general remarks on the
action supposed to follow
TUESDAY

28th April

1973

Cambridge city council's housing waiting list has been rising at a crisis rate
since the beginning of early last year. Counc. Christopher Bradford said:
"Throughout last year applications for the waiting list have been accepted at the
rate of 75 a month. Last year hundreds of people put their names on our housing
list because they can no longer afford to buy their own property". Coun. Mrs Doris
Howe said: "I believe the problem will get a lot worse. It is now almost impossible
for a young couple in this city to buy a house unless they have one to sell. We
must have a vastly increased programme for letting houses and we must have the
land"

1948
To perpetuate the memory of a great student of natural history, Miss Alice Hibbert-
Ware, whose influence during the thirteen years she lived at Girton played an
important part in the life of the village, a memorial garden was opened there.
Widely known as a teacher, lecturer, writer, research worker and trainer of
teachers in natural history, Miss Hibbert-Ware was also praised by speakers or the
enthusiasm and wise counsel which she exercised in all affairs of the village in
which she participated. Girton Parish Council has undertaken to maintain the garden
so that it may for all time be enjoyed by the public

1923
The Harvey Goodwin Home, that well known Cambridge Institution of the Waifs and
Stays Society is to be revived. In 1847 Goodwin determined to start an industrial
School in Cambridge where there were a “large number of ne-do-weels in Barnwell and
elsewhere”. Hitherto there had only been rigorous punishment for youthful
offenders, and Goodwin had seen the possibility of reforming them in an industrial
school. Later the Society for Waifs and Sprays took it over which now lead to the
re-establishment of the home bearing the honoured name of Harvey Goodwin.

1898
A Clavering labourer was charged with stealing a turkey's egg, value one shilling,
the property of Lydia Harritt. She said she knew that a turkey had an egg in the
nest in the hedgerows beside the lane. Fifteen minutes later she went to the nest
and found the egg gone. She gave information to P.C. Drew, who subsequently bought
her an egg which corresponded with others the same turkey had laid. Sofia Smith
stated she saw defendant go to the gap in the hedge, he was gone several minutes.
Defendant said he took the egg, but not from Mrs Harritt: it came from the gutter
in Walter Bailey's field. He was fined two shillings, or seven days in jail

WEDNESDAY

29th April

1973

The railway children will be laughing and chattering again soon in the waiting room
and ticket office of the ghost station at Haddenham - although it is years since
the train passed along the line. The little station will come to life again as a
result of the vision and far-sightedness of Mrs Jean Holdaway, the Girl Guides
County Commissioner, who saw that the crumbling building had the possibility for
being turned into a splendid outdoor activities centre for Guides. The old waiting
room will become the living-cum-dining-room for the parties of Brownies, Guides and
Rangers who will use the centre. The first Brownies will arrive to stay at
Haddenham Halt just as Mrs Holdaway retires as County Commissioner after five years
in the job

1948
The Mayoress of Cambridge (Mrs G.F. Hickson) paid an official visit to the Open
Air School in Ascham Road, off Milton road, Cambridge. The school is composed of a
number of small, single storey buildings with windows extending nearly to the
floor. It comprises classrooms, surgery and shower room, kitchens, dining hall,
laundry & practical rooms and the quarters of the headmistress. These are set in
attractively designed and well-tended ground surrounded by a playing field and
kitchen gardens which the children help to cultivate. The school is for delicate
children for whom it is thought that a course of special treatment and open-air
life would be beneficial. There are also maladjusted children and a few cases of
some form of paralysis

1923
A new burial ground for St Mark's parish, Cambridge, was consecrated by the Bishop
of Ely. A short service was held in the Church, and the people then proceeded to
the burial ground, which is situated about two miles away, by the side of Barton
road, where already lie the remains of Mr J. H. Briggs who had been one of the
foremost in the steps taken to acquire a burial ground for the parish. The Bishop
said it was a curious & pathetic and coincidence that very shortly before the
service of consecration, one who was deeply interested in it, and who had worked
well for it, had passed away, and that he should be the first to be laid to rest in
the new burial ground of the parish before its concentration. The Bishop said the
service was the last act in a long process - the formation of St Mark's into a
separate parish.

1898
Stapleford boasts of having been more frequently visited by outbreaks of fire than
almost any other village in the county, and to enumerate those of a more or less
disastrous nature that have taken place in the near vicinity during the last half
century would be a tedious task. During that time over half a dozen farmsteads have
been completely burnt down, innumerable stack fires have expanded their short-lived
vigour, and several cottages have ascended to the clouds in smoke. And few of the
present inhabitants do not remember the conflagration at Galls rope factory when
the amount of damage was assessed at thousands. Yet they have no fire engine, nor
have they fear for the morrow, what it may bring forth

THURSDAY
30th April
1973
A combination of originality and discipline had distinguished his cpan6y over the
past 25 years, said Mr Sam Alper, chairman of Caravans International Ltd. He was
reminiscing at a luncheon given to celebrate a quarter of a century of the Sprite
caravan, which is manufactured at the rate o one every four minutes at the
company's factory at The Oaks, Fordham Road, Newmarket. Mr Alper paid tribute to
Newmarket where the firm had come by chance in 1948. "It is unique and it would be
a tragedy if it lost its uniqueness because the importance of racing were to
disappear or fade and become insignificant". His firm had had their problems with
what was the only industry in Newmarket but that was natural to react against the
introduction of a foreign body

1948
Sir - The public have been told that under the new National Health Service the best
specialist medical services will be freely available to all, with no fear of
doctors' bills or of hospital charges. They believe this to be true. They will have
to begin paying for it on the appointed day. The waiting list for admission to
Addenbrooke's Hospital is 1,700 odd. If a doctor wants a patient to see one of the
consultants he cannot get an appointment until June 8th. By July it will be much
worse because many private patients are holding back hoping to make use of the free
service as soon as it starts. The public ought to be warned that with the best will
in the world and with the most active co-operation of all the doctors, it will be
many years before they will benefit from a National Health Service freely available
to all - M.D.

1923
The Cambridge Medical Officer of Health’s report calls attention to the
vaccination statistics which indicate how unprepared we are for an outbreak of
smallpox. The proportion of children successfully evacuated is now be the lowest
ever reached, and over 70 per cent are without the protection afforded by primary
vaccination. In connection with infectious disease, he has recorded an outbreak of
scarlet fever of exceptional interest, in view of the fact that this is the first
recorded outbreak attributed to a "carrier". With regard to sanitation, housing is
still the most important item. With inadequate housing of the people preventative
sanitation is fighting a losing battle.

1898
At Cambridge Corn Exchange there took place an assault-at-arms, in which the many
well known exponents of the art of self-defence and kindred sports took part. One
of the most interesting events was the wrestling between the champion of Bulgaria
and the middleweight champion of England. Now and again one of the combatants would
hurl his opponent to the ground with platform shaking force, and time after time
the thrown one would come up to the scratch smiling, and more wonderful still, with
unbroken bones. The audience dispersed well satisfied with the entertainment and
the entertainers.

FRIDAY
1st May
Exultant Cambridge United players shared the glory with the fans after Saturday's
epic 3-2 win against Mansfield - the win which takes them into the Third Division.
The Untied players, directors, officials and their wives will be guests at a civic
reception at the Guildhall. It has never been done before and will probably never
be done again. That was Cambridge United's chairman Geoffrey Proctor's view of the
clubs starling 22-year rise to the Third Division since turning professional. "It
all started in 1950-51 when we turned professional in the United Counties League
and now we are in the Third Division. Naturally we want to go up to the Second
Division and even First Division football. Meanwhile manager Bill Lievers, the
author of so much emotion the day before, spent yesterday morning helping
groundsman Alec James take down the Abbey Stadium goalposts in readiness for full-
scale work on levelling the pitch at the Newmarket Road end

1948
The Chief Constable's report for 1947 discusses the difficulty of getting recruits.
He says: "A female civilian engaged in a clerical capacity in Local Government is
paid 3s 1 1/2d per hour at the age of 32 whereas a married man joining the police
will at 32 be receiving 2s 91/2d per hour, and this figure includes his rent and
boot allowance. In effect a married police constable may be working alongside an
unmarried female typist in the Headquarters, doing a more responsible job for 4d an
hour less. If the civilian clerk was a man he would receive 1s 1 1/2d an hour more
than the police constable"

1923
In connection with milk production, a notable effort has been commenced during the
year by the Stetchworth Dairies. Premises, which are a model of their kind, and
fitted with all necessary appliances, have been prepared, and milk which is
guaranteed to be free from tubercle and absolutely clean, as well as of a high
chemical quantity, can now be obtained at a cost which is little above that of
ordinary milk. The effect has been to stimulate interest and a commendable rivalry
among other milk producers.

1898
The pretty and interesting ceremony of electing and enthroning a May Queen was
observed at the Higher Grade School, Eden Street. Teachers and girls had been busy
transforming their room into a perfect garden of flowers, and the Royal dais,
covered with a green carpet. The retiring Queen (Ethel Norman) having robed and put
on a crown of pansies she ascended the throne and abdicated at the end of a very
happy reign. May Rossendale was elected the new Queen by a large majority and to
the strains of a stately march she appeared, preceded by her bodyguard bearing
garlands of flowers with which they made a triumphal arch for her May Majesty's
procession.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
4th May

1973
In Saffron Walden and in towns and villages throughout Mid Anglia there has been a
massive return to do-it-yourself cabbages, carrots, turnips, onions and of course
the countryman's greatest pride, potatoes. Neat rows of vegetable seedlings are
growing up where weeds or flowers thrived before. The reason is now hard to find.
As greengrocer's prices rise at an alarming rate many ordinary items in an
Englishman's diet are beginning to look like luxuries. So the Englishman is taking
the remedy into his own hands. In Haverhill, where allotments are in short supply,
townspeople are turning to their back gardens in a bid to beat soaring food prices.
There are 93 allotment plots and only two vacancies. There is an allotment waiting
list of 15 at Royston.

1948
The women students of Newnham and Girton will emerge in their New Look in the
October term. The gowns which their full University status now entitles them to
wear have now been designed, and are on sale at £3 3s. each, no coupons. They are
identical with those of the men, except that they have closed sleeves instead of a
slit at the opening. This is because it was felt it would be unsuitable to have
bare arms showing in summer time, when the girls wear short sleeved dresses. As far
as headwear is concerned stiff board was preferred to a soft cap, and squares have
been decided upon. These are still in such short supply that most girls will, like
the men, go bareheaded for the moment

1923
In his remarks on the subject of protection of food (chiefly meat, fish, milk and
butter) from contamination by Street dirt, flies and the hands and clothing of
workers, the Cambridge Medical Officer of Health says the majority of the tradesmen
in Cambridge are alive to the importance of the matter and in one instance an
attempt was made, but without success, to interest customers in the subject. So
long as the public takes no interest in the cleanliness or otherwise of their food,
it can scarcely be expected that producers and tradesmen will go too much trouble
or expense about.

1898
About quarter past four am P.C. Thomas Leeds, being on duty in Fitzroy Street,
Cambridge, noticed a smell as of something burning and saw a volume of smoke
issuing from the house of Thomas More, bricklayer and small shopkeeper. By dint of
hammering on the door, shouting, and blowing his whistle, he succeeded in rousing
the inmates to a sense of their danger. Mrs More was very nervous about being
passed through the window, and her husband was almost obliged to force her out.
Meanwhile, other policemen, having heard the whistling, had hurried to the scene,
and the alarm was sent to the fire station from the alarm post in Fitzroy Street.
In less than ten minutes the men were on the spot with the hose and a steady jet of
water directed on to the flames.

TUESDAY
5th May

1973
The government has overruled the Cambridge city planners and given Sainsbury's the
go ahead to build a large supermarket and shopping complex in Cambridge. Last
autumn planners rejected an application to build on what used to be a precast
concrete factory site at the Brooks Road - Coldham's Lane corner. Now the
Department of the Environment has granted permission. There is little doubt that
city planning officials are embarrassed by it - because it cuts sharply across
their own proposals to safeguard the council's Burleigh Street shopping re-
development project

1948
The experience of being stranded in a strange town, with nowhere to stay, is
particularly unpleasant for young women. There must be many who, stranded in this
way in Cambridge, have heard themselves being directed to the Bene't Hostel for
Women which exists to provide such shelter. The hostel was started in Brooklands
Avenue in 1943 to meet a wartime need and during the last year of hostilities 1,060
applications were received and the total number occupying beds was 8,265. Its
continuing need being proved, a house was later bought at 1, Drosier Road where an
average of 21 beds have been occupied nightly ever since

1923
An undergraduate of Park Street was summoned for causing an obstruction by means
of a motor tricycle in Burrells Walk Cambridge. P.C. Saunders said that as a result
of complaints he kept observation and whilst doing so defendant left his roundabout
outside the racket courts. Defendant told the court that cars much larger than his
were usually left there and he did not think his small one could have caused an
obstruction Fined 10s.

1898
Huntingdon was thrown into a great state of excitement, when it was became known
that a murderous assault had been committed on an inmate of the workhouse known as
"Tunkey” by another inmate alias "Curly". It appears that after dinner the men
adjourned to they wood shop for the purpose of smoking their pipes when all of a
sudden Curly seized an axe and dealt Tunkey a terrible blow on the head sending him
to the ground. The poor old men scampered away to acquit the porter, and in the
meantime the assailant delivered other deadly blows upon the unfortunate man's
skull. Curly then escaped from the back of the premises, and, crossing the common,
was last seen by some boys making his way up Oxmire Lane

WEDNESDAY
6th May

1973
It could be a record year for four singers from Cambridge area who have all had new
LPs issued within the last few months. They are Pete Atkin, Jancis Harvey, Pete
Sayers and Shusha. Mr Atkin, a professional singer appeared in several University
Footlights Club revues. His lyricist is Clive James, a Pembroke graduate, critic,
journalist and erstwhile front man of the television programme "Cinema". Jancis
Harvey, clear-voiced as ever but now very much more professional, has filled the
Albert Hall at Nottingham while singing in concert. Pete Sayers, country singer and
guv'nor of Grand Ole Opry, the monthly show at Newmarket, needs no introduction to
countless Newmarket fans

1948
Much of the ceremonial splendours which in the olden days used to surround the
proclamation of Reach Fair has now disappeared, but there has nevertheless been
left behind a certain amount of pageantry which the present day village people -
both young and old alike - eagerly watched and thoroughly enjoyed on Monday. About
half an hour before the arrival of the Mayoral party the fair was a hive of
activity with the last few nails being hammered into the various stalls. Then
suddenly there was a blare of music without which a fair does not seem to be
complete, closely followed by the opening of practically every door in the village
and the appearance of the older men, women and youngsters

1923
The discovery that one does not possess a clean pair of gloves is usually made at
the most inconvenient moment. A good method of cleaning chamois leather gloves is
that of placing them on the hands and washing them in tepid soft water, using
plenty of pure Castile soap. The gloves should then be drawn off the hands, pulled
out straight, and then passed through a winger. They must be rinsed in water
straightened and again passed through the wringer. The gloves should then be well
shaken and hung to dry in the open air in a shady place and never laid to dry in
front of the fire or over the hot air radiator

1898
St Bene’t's Church, Cambridge, reopened for public service with an improved organ
and newly elected organ chamber, beside several minor renovations in the decoration
of the interior of the building. Archdeacon Emery said that the condition of the
Church in 1849, when he was ordained Deacon, with its organ Gallery at the West
End, and those high pews in the nave, and green baized pews in the Chancel was then
far different to what it was now. Since that time the South aisle had been erected,
the West End and Tower opened and restored, the Chancel and church generally
restored and seated in such a manner that all the worshippers could feel they
formed one family of God.

THURSDAY
7th May

1973

Cambridgeshire & Isle of Ely County Council today ignored a Government request to
axe £750,000 from their estimated £34 million spending this year. Alderman John
James said that if money could be saved in Cambridgeshire this year it would be put
in the balances of the new county council purely for the benefit of Huntingdon and
Peterborough ratepayers

1948
The death occurred on Monday of Fred Markham, familiarly known as "Cuthbert". He
will be missed by many stallholders in Cambridge Market Place where from early
morning till evening he could be seen, either pushing his barrow or at times
helping to hold down stalls in squally weather. Farmers, cattle dealers,
auctioneers too, will miss him both at the Cattle Market in Cambridge and
throughout East Anglia. "A very sociable man and a good mixer" would describe his
personality. He was an ex-cavalry man, and had much foreign service to his credit.
He was 56

1923
The quiet village of Witcham, near Ely, was startled on Sunday evening by rumours
that a lad living in the village was missing, and supposed to be drowned. After
many hours of dragging the body of a 14 year old farm labourer was taken from a
pond in Hive close in the early hours of Monday morning. The coroner returned a
verdict that the lad was found drowned. He said that although in villages there was
often a large amount of stupid and not infrequently malicious gossip and scandal,
which did a lot of mischief, there was on the other hand a most praiseworthy
inclination to render assistance willingly and gladly to those who were in danger.

1898
Still the merry burglar enjoys his nocturnal pleasantries in Cambridge. Instead of
going to the seaside for "Saturday to Monday", the latest investigators prefer a
weekend in the clothing and spirit establishments of Dale brothers, Petty Cury,
where they may satisfy alike their pockets, their interiors, and their sartorial
fancy. Both the outfitting establishment and the wine and spirit store were left in
their usual security on Saturday night, due attention having been paid to doors,
windows, etc. Therefore the enterprising gents sometime between closing time on
Saturday and daylight on Monday made their careful way down the back passage from
Alexander Street and effected an entrance to the clothing establishment from the
rear. 1

FRIDAY
8th May
1973
Arrests for drug offences in the mid-Anglia region are equal to those of any large
city and other more densely populated areas of the country, the Chief Constable, Mr
F. Drayton Porter, said today. The number of people taken to court for drug
offences was 246 last year, almost double the 1971 figure of 125. He said the
arrest rate pointed to the increasing effectiveness of the Aid-Anglia police drug
squad

1948
There must have been many conjectures as to how many cycles do pass up and down St
Andrew's street, Cambridge, in the course of a day. A special cable apparatus used
by Cambridge Borough Police yesterday recorded an average of 1,400 cycles per hour.
During the peak period from 12.30 to 1.30 pm nearly 2,000 cyclists were clocked.
Motor traffic figures are negligible by comparison only 460 vehicles an hour being
"clocked" regularly over the whole day. The census was organised in connection with
the one-way traffic system which will shortly be brought into operation

1923
Sir - Traction engines do no damage to roads which are probably made, not even to
tarred roads if the proper amount of granite chips are laid down, and not a soft
and useless mixture of tar and sand, which is picked up at once it horses and other
slow traffic. If the roads are marked, it is because they are not properly
finished. I fail to see that because these motors may come from distant places they
do us no good. Where would Cambridge be if it were not in touch by transport with
distant places? We should go short of many necessaries, in fact, everything except
for two important local products, knowledge and sausages - very good things in
their way, but would not alone carry us far. We must make the roads bear the
traffic; that is what they are for. - "Another Ratepayer"

1898
Cottenham parish council considered a request from the Milton parish council
asking them to join in petitioning the County Council to take such steps as might
seem fit for the purpose of constructing a light railway from the crossing on the
Milton Road to Cottenham via Landbeach. After discussing the question it was agreed
that the Milton route would be best for passenger traffic to Cambridge. Therefore
it was agreed to support the petition

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
11TH May

1973
Cambridge Students' Union secretary, Mr Rodney Smyth, made university history
yesterday as the first undergraduate to speak during a Senate discussion. Normally
only Dons are allowed to take part in discussions but for consideration of the
joint Don-Student Committee report on student representation in university
government both undergraduates and postgraduates were given a special dispensation.
Mr Smyth, who had earlier listened to criticisms of the C.S.U. told Dons that he
did not think the organisation at present was representative enough of Cambridge
students. Proposals to put four students on Cambridge University's "inner cabinet",
the Council of the Senate, got a frosty reception

1948
"New Faces" was the name of the show arranged and presented by Les Baker at
Cambridge Guildhall. The biggest hand of the evening was extended to Jean Circuit,
crooning with the Stirlingaire's orchestra. Probably best known was Albert Cox, the
bass baritone. 14-YEAR-OLD RODNEY TIBBS gave his first-ever pianoforte recital in
public. The audience warmed to him

1923
Sir. I read in your valuable paper that a youth was prosecuted for endeavouring to
earn his living by "calling out in a very loud voice, ‘Coal, Coal’ in the streets”.
Perhaps I may be excused if I draw attention to another noisy nuisance on Midsummer
Common. Every Thursday evening we are compelled to listen to the most monstrous,
discordant and ear piercing of sounds. These consist of a jumble of about six notes
attempted on military bugles and the rat-a- tat of small drums caused by some six
or seven small boys of the Church Brigade. The curious and painful but about the
matter is that the boys always appear to be in the initial stage. They never seem
to improve or get more in tune. - A Long Sufferer

1898
A tramp was charged with sleeping in an outhouse without visible means of
subsistence in Bridge Terrace, Fenstanton. He had sold his boots for fourpence at
the Dolphin, and bought beer and bread and cheese with the money. The bench
sentenced him to seven days hard labour. The prisoner thanked the magistrates and
said when he came out he hoped they would give him a new suit of clothes, and then
he would go to Liverpool

TUESDAY
12th May

1973
County planners envisage that the population of Sutton - classified as a "growth
village" - may almost double to 4,000 by 1981. The council chairman, Mr Marcus
Darby, said, "I don't see why we shouldn't accept the proposed growth. It must help
the prosperity of the village". Planning officials spoke of possible extensions at
the village school, or the building of a second school and possible areas for new
building development. They suggested the former airfield and the old railway
station as suitable sites for any small firms who might wish to come to Sutton.
Councillors also suggested the allocation of a site for a community centre

1948
Sir - "In reply to a gaily-coloured invitation to have my eight-month old daughter
immunised from diphtheria, free of charge, I took her to the Auckland Road Clinic,
Cambridge. I had experience of this clinic during the war as an ambulance driver.
What I found horrified me. I found makeshift surroundings completely unsuited and
of dubious cleanliness and that instead of the babies being isolated at this
special time the room was occupied by 20 or 30 school children, some with scabs on
their faces, some with colds, some hardly clean, all waiting for treatment. I
waited for half an hour from the time of my appointment and as the doctor had not
yet arrived I decided not to risk the babies health any longer in such an
environment and went home. If we are to have any kind of National Health Service
that will work this kind of thing will have to stop" - Margaret Phillips

1923

An undergraduate of Pembroke College, Cambridge was charged with driving a motor

car at a speed dangerous to the public at Littleport. P.S. Neil stated that the car
was on the right hand side of the road. He considers the speed was 55 to 60 miles
the hour. He failed to take the number of the car, as there was too much grit and
stones flying about caused by the speed. The undergraduate said when he got to
Littleport there were two sharp bends and his speed then was about 10 miles per
hour. When he got round the bend he dropped into second gear. He saw the policemen
but they paid no attention to him. It was quite impossible to get up to 35 mph in
second gear, which would probably break the engine. He knew there was a police trap
at Littleport. Magistrates fined him £5.

1898
Fair St, Cambridge was the scene of an unpleasant and dangerous accident. A Hansom
cab add belonging to Mr Andrews, of Salmon Lane, was on its way to the stable when
the horse unaccountably bolted. The animal ran full tilt into the window of a small
grocer shop, kept by Mr Cox. Then ensued a melee, in which the window with its
frame were utterly demolished. A good deal of stock was damaged, and several
articles lying about were smashed. The course kicked wildly, and bled to a
dangerous extent from a multitude of cuts inflicted by broken glass and debris.

WEDNESDAY
13th May
1973

Cambridge college libraries, which are of fundamental importance to undergraduates,

have strikingly small staffs, states a report published this week. It says "No
fewer than nine college libraries, including two large ones, have no full-time
staff. They have well under half the ratio of staff to books found necessary for
the efficient administration of departmental libraries". In the present year, it is
estimated that the University will give college libraries a total of £12,000

1948
The watching eyes of Britain's air defence went into action on Sunday in the
biggest-scale Royal Observer Corps activity in the district since the war. Observer
posts were manned at Cherry Hinton, Linton, Caxton, St Ives, Abbots Ripton,
Littleport and elsewhere following the movements of jet fighters, Spitfires,
Lancaster and Lincoln bombers and other types of aircraft numbering over 100
aircraft put up by the RAF. At Linton I found the observers proud of their post,
built at their own expense by their own labours during the war

1923
John Manning of Bedford was summoned for using a locomotives on the highway to
draw more than three loaded wagons. Superintendent Allen spoke to seeing a traction
engine at Barton drawing four loaded wagons. Three wagons were loaded with tackle
belonging to roundabouts, and the fourth wagon, bore the words "Water cart". There
were five wooden tubs in it, three of which contained coal. Witness told defendant
he was only allowed to draw three wagons and a water cart. He said the last was a
water cart. Witness asking where the water was, but he could not show it. There was
no water in the wagons for engine purposes. Defendant admitted putting coal on the
wagon. He could not carry enough in his bunker for the journey. He was fined 10s.

1898
A terrific explosion occurred at the shop of Mr Ruston, ironmonger, St Ives. The
centre part of the warehouse was reduced to ruins, the front windows of the shop
blown out, and great damage done to the surrounding buildings. Two assistants are
missing, and it is supposed they are buried amidst the ruins of the warehouse. The
windows of the shops across the street are also blown in. Messrs Foster's bank on
the side nearest Mr Ruston's has every window broken. Even two side windows of the
Corn Exchange, where a dog show is being held, are broken. No one knows yet how the
explosion was caused, but it is bought one of the men must have taken a light to
the gunpowder safe.

THURSDAY
14th May
1973

A woman doctor spoke last night about sexpot girls from Cambridge schools who
wander around trying to be sexual objects. Dr Shirley Emerson, a family planning
advisor, said "I have met girls who have never learned anything about sex except
that sex is the thing to do but that you have to be successful at it. Boys and
girls are trying to do sex at "O" levels, I have 17-year-olds coming to me
complaining that they are frigid"

1948
The extremely vexed question of whether or not films, and particularly American
pictures, were harmful to children was raised at a Summer School at Homerton
College. Mrs H.A. Adeane, one of the magistrates on the Juvenile Panel gets first
hand observation of the children in trouble passing through the courts. She
considered that certain American films, of a low standard of morality might have an
indirect effect and that over-sexed pictures were probably bad for the adolescent

1923
A shed belonging to Mr Knott, but basket maker and carrier, of Burwell, was found
to be on fire and was destroyed. Mr Owen Warren passed the shed - an erection of
wood and corrugated iron - and noticed a smell of burning such as might come from a
burning rubbish heap. He went home and sat down to supper, when he reflected that
there was no rubbish heap near the shed, so he turned out again to look at it, and
then saw that flames were leaping. He called for assistance and many willing
workers came to prevent the flame from spreading. Water was obtained from the Lode
and the adjoining properties were protected. The fire may have originated from a
stove used to warm the shed, in which some work-girls had been during the day

1898
A meeting was held at Trinity college at which several prominent ladies and
gentlemen interested in the recreation of factory girls were present. Mrs Tennant
gave an interesting description of the average factory girl’s life. For the most
part it was a joyless monotony of toil, their weary day often being followed by a
worse night. She knew many girls whose whole life was like this, they are employed
some 10 or 12 hours each day. By means of this society arrangements are made with
cottagers in the country so that these tired and weary girls are enabled to breathe
the fresh air and have a glimpse of the country

FRIDAY
15th May
1973

Over 5,000 people - umbrella-ed, raincoated and overcoated against a cold drizzling
afternoon - packed into Ely's park for the BBC "It's a Knock-Out" between Ely and
Hertford. It turned out not so much of a knockout as a slaughter as Ely won by a
record 19-1. Now Ely have won themselves a trip to Arnhem in Holland for an
international "Jeux-sans-frontiers" heat in August. Genial Eddie Waring - sharing
commentating duties with Stuart Hall said "It is a remarkable performance and I
think the biggest margin we have ever had". Team manager, David Cornwell said, "I
don't believe it"

1948
Constant flooding has resulted in the decay of the foundations of the Boat Inn at
Brownshill Staunch, Over, and the building is breaking up. It was suggested to the
Ouse Catchment Board that the existing premises should be demolished and another
house erected nearby where it would be protected by the Barrier Bank, and that a
hut be placed on the site of "The Boat" for the use of the sluice-keeper

1923
Saffron Walden council received a letter from the Showmans Guild. "I understand
there are two fairs held on the Common, one in March and the other in October,
these having been chartered for the purpose of Horse fairs, the amusements being an
adjunct of such fairs. To ask the Home Office to abolish the pleasure fair would
resolve itself in the abolition of the fair altogether, as the two objects must
stand or fall together. I am writing as it would appear that the trouble has
arisen, not from my own people, who are the amusement caterers, but from the
gypsies and squatters who visit the Commons on these occasions, and who really
should be under the control of the police

1898
Two young men, the victims of the awful explosion at St Ives, were buried were
buried on Sunday afternoon. One gentleman says he stood at the cemetery gates and
counted 1,750 persons enter. People flocked in from all the villages around, and it
is questionable if such a large number has attended a funeral in the down before.
This shows how the lamentable affair has stirred the heart of the people of the
town. Both were members of the Wesleyan Sunday's School, and the distressed parents
are greatly comforted in the thought that they were such good-living lads

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
18 May
1973

The fens were yesterday swept by the most severe blow this spring, as high winds
picked up the lighter peats in the Soham, Stretham and Mepal district, uprooting
new sown crops of beet and carrots, which are particularly vulnerable. The blow
appeared to be widespread and raged for several hours. There have been two blows so
far this spring but neither has caused widespread damage. Last year, more than
10,000 acres of sugar beet had to be replanted after a blow at roughly the same
time. A Soham farmer, Mr Guy Shropshire has been using a prototype machine which
"plants" straw between vegetable rows to prevent wind damage on his 1,000-acre farm

1948
Fears about Cambridge's famous "Backs" being incorporated in a Trunk Road system
were expressed at a County Council meeting and one member declared that if the
amenities of the "Backs" were spoilt the "whole feeling of the town" would be
altered. The committee requested the Minister of Transport to expedite the
construction of a ring road so as to relieve the "Backs" of through traffic

1923
At an inquiry into Ely rural council’s plans for water supply the engineer said he
considered there was sufficient water at Back Road, Mildenhall, to supply the needs
of the Ely rural district. He said there would be two water towers, one at
Littleport and one at Soham. The inspector mentioned that the water main passed
through Little Downham, but that the village was not to be supplied. The engineer:
They asked to be left out of the scheme. The inspector: Don't they want it? A voice
(emphatically): No. (laughter)

1898
It seems to be the serious avocation of some very fantastic young undergraduates to
hound on their dogs to the destruction of such inoffensive animals as cats. It was
only at the end of last term that a cat was done to death on that the spot where
the dogs today, added one to the probably large number of their victims. If the
Varsity authorities permit us to keep dogs, they should endeavour to prevent the
abuse of that privilege - Lover of animals
TUESDAY
19th May

1973
The centre of Ely became one big pedestrian precinct as streets were sealed off to
traffic for a ten-day festival - the 1,300 year-old city's most spectacular event
of this, or possibly any other, century. Six thousand costumed children from 670
schools in the Diocese poured in by train, coach and on foot to make merry in a
festival organised as part of the cathedral's 13th-century celebrations. It aimed
at recreating the atmosphere of the ancient St Ethedlreda's fair. Monks, peddlers
and mummers roamed the streets, slaves were auctioned, bears were baited, beef was
roasted on spits in the Market Place, local shopkeepers and their staffs in costume
joined in the fun making

1948
The majority of Jewish students at present up at the University together with their
co-religious townsmen and a number of non-Jewish friends held a special cocktail
party in Trinity College to greet the proclamation of the new Jewish state, Israel.
Centre of attraction was a large cake iced in blue and white (the national colours
of Israel) and bearing a map of Palestine and the flag of the new state

1923
An exceptionally fine old Tudor house, Bourn Hall, was offered for sale at the
London Auction Mart. The bidding rose to £8,000 but at this price the property was
withdrawn. Bourn Hall is a genuine old Tudor House of reasonable size, and the
general preservation and condition of the structure are excellent. The house is now
equipped with the convenience of electric night, central heating, main water supply
etc. The property covers an area of about 22 acres
1898
Proceedings were certainly lively at a large meeting of the electors of Exning
convened by the Newmarket Urban District Council on the question of obtaining a
Charter of incorporation for Newmarket urban district, which includes the village
of Exning. The chairman explained that the subject for consideration was whether
the Newmarket districts should or should no be made a borough. Mr Westhorpe
sketched the advantages which would result. Mr Cattrall said the town was in a
state of a bankruptcy

WEDNESDAY
20th May
1973

Methodist leaders are planning an all-out campaign to beat Haverhill's mounting

social problems. Their main targets are the bingo playing mums who spend their
house-keeping money, child cruelty, rowing parents and street corner youngsters
with nothing to do but drink. Rev George Sharman said on bingo: "It's harmless for
a little while. But we know that some mothers spend £3 or £4 a week. They start
spending their housekeeping and the tension mounts

1948
When a proposal to abolish the speed limit at Harston for a distance of 1,104 yards
south from the "Old English Gentleman" was discussed at the County Council strong
opposition was expressed. Ald Stubbs said the traffic passing through Harston was a
positive danger. Counc Jackson thought the real trouble was the shortage of police
personnel which prevented the enforcement of speed limits

1923
At Harston on Whit-Monday the past met the present and the sun shone most of the
time to celebrate the occasion. The first thing one noticed was the inevitable fair
ground the village green and that in itself was not very remarkable but a casual
glance the round-abouts and the swing boats revealed an extraordinary blaze of gay
colours. Closer inspection discovered ladies in the becoming dress and high pointed
hats of the 15th century, maids-in-waiting, pages, an odd monk or two and a host of
villagers in trunk and hose all enjoying the fun of the fair

1898
Cambridge is not excepted from the gloom which Mr Gladstone’s death has cast over
the kingdom. All over the town are to be seen tributes to his memory in the form of
flags at half-mast. The Cambridge and County Liberal Club is conspicuous for the
black boards across its lower windows. The Guildhall has mounted the Royal
standard, and at the union the same flag is hoisted at half-mast. The Union Jack
hangs in the wind outside the Conservative Club - a graceful tribute to a
statesman, too whom everyone, of whatever political views, has accorded the palm as
being the greatest man of modern times.

THURSDAY
21st May

1973
More than a thousand farmers and industrialists through Mid Anglia are being sent
warning letters telling them they may be ordered to reduce their water consumption
next month. A clampdown on the amount of water used for farm irrigation is now
being seriously contemplated. Rainfall over the last year has been almost the
lowest on record and now there are fears that the quality of Mid Anglia rivers may
reach crisis point during the hot summer months unless action is taken soon

1948
Four hundred teachers from Cambridgeshire are gathered at Impington Village College
on a course which is believed to be the first of its kind in this country for
teaching in rural areas. In his speech t the opening session Henry Morris, Chief
Education Officer, said: "In this technological, scientific world we are over-
organised and suffering from an excess of administration"

1923
Deep regret will be felt in the county at the death of Mr Albert Peake, of St
Catharine’s Manor Farm, Coton. He decided to settle there about two years ago, and
the day he made that decision was a fortunate one for the village. He practically
rebuilt the old the town Manor which dates as far back as St Catharine's College,
and built handsome premises in the shape of farm buildings, on what was formerly
known as St Catharine’s farm. One of his generous acts for the welfare of the
villagers was to present them with a large recreation ground - known as Peake’s
playground, the children up to that time having no place other than the road on
which to play

1898
Cambridge town council was requested to consider permitting a cabmen's shelter to
be placed on the Market Hill. Mr Darwin said that he received a petition asking for
the provision of some place for them to warm themselves during the cold months in
some central position in the town. At present there was only one cabmen’s shelter
in the town and that was very widely used. If they provided another the public
would gain some advantage because the cabmen, instead of going to the public
houses, as they now did, would go to the shelter. The only possible harm it would
do was that perhaps it would make the neighbouring public houses sell less beer

FRIDAY
22nd May

1973
Sir Harry Legge-Bourke MP has died at his London home. He came to live in Ely in
1946, the year after he won the Isle of Ely parliamentary seat from the Liberals.
He farmed at Witchford for the next 12 years and named his Ely home Witchford
House. Sir Harry played an active role in county affairs and was a popular and
hard-working Member of Parliament. He fought eight campaigns to retain his Isle of
Ely seat for 28 years. Sir Harry was often dubbed "the galloping major”for the zest
with which he tackled his electioneering campaign

1948
Soham, with its community minded population, can now boast one of the finest hard
courts in Cambridgeshire, a court upon which two of the world's leading women
tennis players have displayed their skills. Presented by the town by two of its
leading citizens, Mr & Mrs E.R. Ennion. It perpetuates the memory of their son who
was killed in action in Singapore. It lies in surrounding which have no equal in
the whole county and last evening had the honour of being "christened" by Great
Britain's two leading women tennis stars, Mrs Kay Menzies and Mrs Jean Bostock. The
ceremony was watched by a large crowd.

1923
An attendance of upwards of 5000 at the first athletics meeting held on the Town
Football Club's ground, Milton road, may be regarded as entirely satisfactory. The
first part of the day was taken up with six-a-side football. The various races were
keenly contested on a track which made the cyclists very cautious. In two of the
races there were two nasty spills. Sir Douglas Newton presented the Invicta cycle
to Mr Fuller of Shelly row, who was the fortunate winner of a handsome machine
given to the purchaser of a ticket before the day of the event. The proud processor
was apparently not a cyclist, for he wheeled it around the track, notwithstanding
that the spectators invited him to "jump on and ride".

1898
Sir - I was dining last night with a friend in a well-known restaurant in
Cambridge. Soon after we had commenced dinner, a party of four so-called gentlemen
entered, and it was apparent that they had already been drinking freely. The first
incident was an impromptu wrestling match between the ringleader and another of his
party. Soon they began to throw bread and other missiles about and my friend and
myself were struck by their badly directed efforts. In fact, it became necessary
for us to leave the place before we had finished our dinner, so intolerable were
the annoyances which we received from these "bloods". I think such conduct deserves
exposure in your columns. - Surprised

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
18 May
1973

The fens were yesterday swept by the most severe blow this spring, as high winds
picked up the lighter peats in the Soham, Stretham and Mepal district, uprooting
new sown crops of beet and carrots, which are particularly vulnerable. The blow
appeared to be widespread and raged for several hours. There have been two blows so
far this spring but neither has caused widespread damage. Last year, more than
10,000 acres of sugar beet had to be replanted after a blow at roughly the same
time. A Soham farmer, Mr Guy Shropshire has been using a prototype machine which
"plants" straw between vegetable rows to prevent wind damage on his 1,000-acre farm

1948
Fears about Cambridge's famous "Backs" being incorporated in a Trunk Road system
were expressed at a County Council meeting and one member declared that if the
amenities of the "Backs" were spoilt the "whole feeling of the town" would be
altered. The committee requested the Minister of Transport to expedite the
construction of a ring road so as to relieve the "Backs" of through traffic

1923
At an inquiry into Ely rural council’s plans for water supply the engineer said he
considered there was sufficient water at Back Road, Mildenhall, to supply the needs
of the Ely rural district. He said there would be two water towers, one at
Littleport and one at Soham. The inspector mentioned that the water main passed
through Little Downham, but that the village was not to be supplied. The engineer:
They asked to be left out of the scheme. The inspector: Don't they want it? A voice
(emphatically): No. (laughter)

1898
It seems to be the serious avocation of some very fantastic young undergraduates to
hound on their dogs to the destruction of such inoffensive animals as cats. It was
only at the end of last term that a cat was done to death on that the spot where
the dogs today, added one to the probably large number of their victims. If the
Varsity authorities permit us to keep dogs, they should endeavour to prevent the
abuse of that privilege - Lover of animals
TUESDAY
19th May

1973
The centre of Ely became one big pedestrian precinct as streets were sealed off to
traffic for a ten-day festival - the 1,300 year-old city's most spectacular event
of this, or possibly any other, century. Six thousand costumed children from 670
schools in the Diocese poured in by train, coach and on foot to make merry in a
festival organised as part of the cathedral's 13th-century celebrations. It aimed
at recreating the atmosphere of the ancient St Ethedlreda's fair. Monks, peddlers
and mummers roamed the streets, slaves were auctioned, bears were baited, beef was
roasted on spits in the Market Place, local shopkeepers and their staffs in costume
joined in the fun making

1948
The majority of Jewish students at present up at the University together with their
co-religious townsmen and a number of non-Jewish friends held a special cocktail
party in Trinity College to greet the proclamation of the new Jewish state, Israel.
Centre of attraction was a large cake iced in blue and white (the national colours
of Israel) and bearing a map of Palestine and the flag of the new state

1923
An exceptionally fine old Tudor house, Bourn Hall, was offered for sale at the
London Auction Mart. The bidding rose to £8,000 but at this price the property was
withdrawn. Bourn Hall is a genuine old Tudor House of reasonable size, and the
general preservation and condition of the structure are excellent. The house is now
equipped with the convenience of electric night, central heating, main water supply
etc. The property covers an area of about 22 acres

1898
Proceedings were certainly lively at a large meeting of the electors of Exning
convened by the Newmarket Urban District Council on the question of obtaining a
Charter of incorporation for Newmarket urban district, which includes the village
of Exning. The chairman explained that the subject for consideration was whether
the Newmarket districts should or should no be made a borough. Mr Westhorpe
sketched the advantages which would result. Mr Cattrall said the town was in a
state of a bankruptcy

WEDNESDAY
20th May
1973

Methodist leaders are planning an all-out campaign to beat Haverhill's mounting

social problems. Their main targets are the bingo playing mums who spend their
house-keeping money, child cruelty, rowing parents and street corner youngsters
with nothing to do but drink. Rev George Sharman said on bingo: "It's harmless for
a little while. But we know that some mothers spend £3 or £4 a week. They start
spending their housekeeping and the tension mounts

1948
When a proposal to abolish the speed limit at Harston for a distance of 1,104 yards
south from the "Old English Gentleman" was discussed at the County Council strong
opposition was expressed. Ald Stubbs said the traffic passing through Harston was a
positive danger. Counc Jackson thought the real trouble was the shortage of police
personnel which prevented the enforcement of speed limits

1923
At Harston on Whit-Monday the past met the present and the sun shone most of the
time to celebrate the occasion. The first thing one noticed was the inevitable fair
ground the village green and that in itself was not very remarkable but a casual
glance the round-abouts and the swing boats revealed an extraordinary blaze of gay
colours. Closer inspection discovered ladies in the becoming dress and high pointed
hats of the 15th century, maids-in-waiting, pages, an odd monk or two and a host of
villagers in trunk and hose all enjoying the fun of the fair

1898
Cambridge is not excepted from the gloom which Mr Gladstone’s death has cast over
the kingdom. All over the town are to be seen tributes to his memory in the form of
flags at half-mast. The Cambridge and County Liberal Club is conspicuous for the
black boards across its lower windows. The Guildhall has mounted the Royal
standard, and at the union the same flag is hoisted at half-mast. The Union Jack
hangs in the wind outside the Conservative Club - a graceful tribute to a
statesman, too whom everyone, of whatever political views, has accorded the palm as
being the greatest man of modern times.

THURSDAY
21st May

1973
More than a thousand farmers and industrialists through Mid Anglia are being sent
warning letters telling them they may be ordered to reduce their water consumption
next month. A clampdown on the amount of water used for farm irrigation is now
being seriously contemplated. Rainfall over the last year has been almost the
lowest on record and now there are fears that the quality of Mid Anglia rivers may
reach crisis point during the hot summer months unless action is taken soon

1948
Four hundred teachers from Cambridgeshire are gathered at Impington Village College
on a course which is believed to be the first of its kind in this country for
teaching in rural areas. In his speech t the opening session Henry Morris, Chief
Education Officer, said: "In this technological, scientific world we are over-
organised and suffering from an excess of administration"

1923
Deep regret will be felt in the county at the death of Mr Albert Peake, of St
Catharine’s Manor Farm, Coton. He decided to settle there about two years ago, and
the day he made that decision was a fortunate one for the village. He practically
rebuilt the old the town Manor which dates as far back as St Catharine's College,
and built handsome premises in the shape of farm buildings, on what was formerly
known as St Catharine’s farm. One of his generous acts for the welfare of the
villagers was to present them with a large recreation ground - known as Peake’s
playground, the children up to that time having no place other than the road on
which to play

1898
Cambridge town council was requested to consider permitting a cabmen's shelter to
be placed on the Market Hill. Mr Darwin said that he received a petition asking for
the provision of some place for them to warm themselves during the cold months in
some central position in the town. At present there was only one cabmen’s shelter
in the town and that was very widely used. If they provided another the public
would gain some advantage because the cabmen, instead of going to the public
houses, as they now did, would go to the shelter. The only possible harm it would
do was that perhaps it would make the neighbouring public houses sell less beer

FRIDAY
22nd May

1973
Sir Harry Legge-Bourke MP has died at his London home. He came to live in Ely in
1946, the year after he won the Isle of Ely parliamentary seat from the Liberals.
He farmed at Witchford for the next 12 years and named his Ely home Witchford
House. Sir Harry played an active role in county affairs and was a popular and
hard-working Member of Parliament. He fought eight campaigns to retain his Isle of
Ely seat for 28 years. Sir Harry was often dubbed "the galloping major”for the zest
with which he tackled his electioneering campaign

1948
Soham, with its community minded population, can now boast one of the finest hard
ourts in Cambridgeshire, a court upon which two of the world's leading women tennis
players have displayed their skills. Presented by the town by two of its leading
citizens, Mr & Mrs E.R. Ennion. It perpetuates the memory of their son who was
killed in action in Singapore. It lies in surrounding which have no equal in the
whole county and last evening had the honour of being "christened" by Great
Britain's two leading women tennis stars, Mrs Kay Menzies and Mrs Jean Bostock. The
ceremony was watched by a large crowd.

1923
An attendance of upwards of 5000 at the first athletics meeting held on the Town
Football Club's ground, Milton road, may be regarded as entirely satisfactory. The
first part of the day was taken up with six-a-side football. The various races were
keenly contested on a track which made the cyclists very cautious. In two of the
races there were two nasty spills. Sir Douglas Newton presented the Invicta cycle
to Mr Fuller of Shelly row, who was the fortunate winner of a handsome machine
given to the purchaser of a ticket before the day of the event. The proud processor
was apparently not a cyclist, for he wheeled it around the track, notwithstanding
that the spectators invited him to "jump on and ride".

1898
Sir - I was dining last night with a friend in a well-known restaurant in
Cambridge. Soon after we had commenced dinner, a party of four so-called gentlemen
entered, and it was apparent that they had already been drinking freely. The first
incident was an impromptu wrestling match between the ringleader and another of his
party. Soon they began to throw bread and other missiles about and my friend and
myself were struck by their badly directed efforts. In fact, it became necessary
for us to leave the place before we had finished our dinner, so intolerable were
the annoyances which we received from these "bloods". I think such conduct deserves
exposure in your columns. - Surprised

Looking back, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
25 May

1973

After 700 years of male domination the first woman to be chosen as Vice Chancellor
- the effective head of Cambridge University - does not anticipate any particular
problems in dealing with her male colleagues. Miss Rosemary Murray, who is
president of New Hall, was nominated by the Council of Senate. She will take up her
post in two years if the nomination is accepted by the university, usually a
formality. She is due to take charge at a difficult time in the university's
history, when students are demanding more and more say in the running of its
affairs
1948
Some 60 or 70 local girls raised their chances at being found to be a Margaret
Lockwood, Patricia Roe or, perhaps, Betty Grable of the future, by entering the Max
Factor Beauty Contest at the Regal cinema, Cambridge. There was a packed house. The
girls in bathing dress paraded across the stage and then posed in a life sized
picture frame. There was no doubt about who received the greatest volume of
clapping and the winner who will go forward as "Miss Cambridge" to the London
finals was Miss Gladys Caston, a 24-year-old bus contructress, of Cambridge.
Second was a schoolgirl, Jean Nicholson and third Betty Goddard, a typsit (sic)

1923

Lady M.Darwin, of Newnham Grange, Cambridge, appeared at the police court when she
was summonsed for riding a bicycle on the footway at West Road. She appeared and
pleaded not guilty. P.C. Hagger stated that he saw the defendant riding along the
footpath and rode after the on his bicycle. When he told her she would be reported,
she replied, "I was riding very slowly; you should make the Corporation lay the tar
better; it spoils bicycle tyres". (Laughter) "I don't think I was doing any harm to
anyone. Some of the friends I see before me have admitted during the same thing".
(Laughter). She was fined five shillings.

1898
John Hitchcock, ginger beer
Sawtry and when delivering a
severely injuring one of his
entirely lost, but hopes are
maker, in the employ of Mr Beck, chemist, journeyed to
case of ginger beer, one of the bottles exploded
eyes and face. It is feared the sight of this eye is
entertained the other may be preserved

TUESDAY
26th May

1973
The £11,000 a year top management job on the new Cambridgeshire County Council has
been given to 38-year-old Mr John Barratt, the deputy town clerk of Bradford. He
will take control of the hundreds of staff who will ultimately be appointed to the
new council or transferred from the present Cambridgeshire and Isle of Ely County
Council. One of his first jobs will be to advise on the appointment of a team of
chief officers who will form a boardroom style management group when the new
council takes over responsibility from the old on April 1st next year

1948
Mr B. Audus, a Cambs delegate at the National Union of Agricultural Workers
Conference expressed the need for some safeguard for British workers while foreign
labour was being employed in agriculture. In Cambs there had always been a large
number of casual workers, and there were men out of work while German P.O.Ws were
being used on farms. Farmers had made great use of P.O.W.s and foreign labour on
piecework rates at the expense of British workers. The Conference agreed to a
resolution calling for the abolition of all form of foreign labour immediately

1923
"It is the most serious frost I remember for years", said a well-known Cottenham
fruitgrower speaking of the frost which prevailed during Wednesday night. Seven
degrees of frost were registered in many parts. Agriculturists and fruitgrowers in
the county were dismayed to see the ground white with frost, and anxious inspection
was made of crops to see what damage had resulted. There is no doubt that havoc has
being played amongst many fruit crops, plums in particular seem to have suffered.
Indeed, it is feared in some places that the plum crop has been entirely ruined.
"Plums as big as horse beans are black as your hat", was the way one grower
expressed it

1898
Mr H. D. Taylor, of Haverhill has had the misfortune to lose a useful carthorse. It
appears that he had dispatched the horse in charge of a man to do some ploughing in
a field near to Withersfield road. In order to reach the field a temporary bridge
spanning a watercourse had to be crossed. While so during the horse, which was a
young one, shied and fell off the bridge, a distance of about 12 feet, breaking its
back. The poor animal was at once killed. We understand this makes two horses and
tree foals Mr Taylor has lost within the last five weeks.

WEDNESDAY
27th May

1973

After 86 years in business the Cambridge firm of A.W. Crisp and co., the first
people to commercially introduce heraldic design work in the city, have closed
down. Their premises at King's Parade will come up for auction next month. As one
of the few freehold properties which become available in the city centre a price of
£150,000 is on the cards. The firm were responsible for the wooden spoons given to
the mathematics tripos candidate with the lowest examination mark.

1948
To the dinner held at the University Arms Hotel in celebration of the Diamond
Jubilee of the Cambridge Daily News" there came as guests those who formed the
happiest possible combination of the "family" and delighted friends. University,
town and county joined in tributes to our paper, tributes, too, which made mention
of accuracy, good taste and kindliness. The Mayor, (Coun G.F. Hickson) said: "We
all feel very strongly that the prosperity of the local Press, even if it sometimes
goes by the affectionate name of the "local rag", is a feature of our life today. I
think it must gain the admiration of us all in the way the C.D.N. does succeed in
giving a fair deal to everyone in the restricted space at its disposal"

1923
Cambridge is justly proud of its business veterans, and it may truly be said that
no one is held in higher respect than Mr William Heffer. He started as a groom but
resolved to make a start in business on his own, and opened as a stationers and
newsagents in a shop which is still his, the Post Office in Fitzroy Street. It has
been said that Mr Heffer to a large extent altered the character of Fitzroy Street,
for when he introduced to Cambridge the 25% discount off books, university men and
others not accustomed to frequenting that part of the town, began to stream up
there, and, of course, other tradesmen - benefited in consequence.

1898
Ely May fair attracted crowds from all the fens round. Ely was crowded, and foot
traffic on High street and round the market was brought almost to a standstill. At
the business fair there was a capital show of carthorses but very few purchasers.
Inferior horses were very slow trade, and this may apply to cattle of which there
was but a small supply, and few purchasers. The pleasure fair, although smaller
than usual, was crowded all day, and the stall keepers will have no cause to
grumble

THURSDAY
28th May

1973
Extra police were drafted in from Mid-Anglian towns for a pop concert at St Ives
attended by hundreds of teenagers who had come to see The Sweet pop group. The
crowd was not as big as organised hoped. Even one of The Sweet commented when he
got up on the stage; "There isn't many of them, is there". The top pop group was
supposed to have arrived in a helicopter, but in fact they slipped almost unnoticed
into the grounds in a large black car. Only a handful of fans saw them come in,
most were listening to a supporting discotheque

1948
Through a countryside hinting at the rich promise of a fine harvest, town and
country folk flocked into Ely on Saturday to break all attendance records for a
County Show organised by the Cambs and Isle Agricultural Society. Some 24,000
people passed through the entrance gates into the forty acres of well-laid-out
showground off the Downham Road. About £3,000 was taken in gate money. Over 1,000
animals were on view and eye-dazzling exhibits of machinery made the mechanically-
minded farmer's mouth water, though delivery difficulties made much of the
machinery a promise of good things to come rather than of good things of immediate
availability

1923
A carter of Wicken was charged with cruelty to a horse by working it in an unfit
state at Soham. Inspector Charles Taylor, RSPCA, said he was on duty at the Soham
railway approach when he saw the man with a cart containing four fat pigs. The mare
attached to the cart was lame. Defendant said the bay mare would not have been
brought out but that the other horse was taken bad. P.C. Haines gave evidence that
the mare was in pain and her foot was hot. Fined 2s.6d.

1898
Seven labourers were summoned for “tin kettling in Great Shelford. PC Chater said
they were banging tins and trays, and such things, as well as shouting and yelling
at a lady . Two of them had pails half full of tar which they used for burning the
woman in effigy. This entertainment continued for about two hours. The woman said:
"My husband won't part with his money, and that's why I left him.” The magistrate:
"What is your husband's name?" - "I don't know what his name is. I never took the
trouble to remember his nasty name”. Defendants were fined 2s.6d each.

FRIDAY
29th May

1973
There was no one to take the Mayor of Cambridge for a ride when he opened the
centuries-old fair at the tiny fenland village of Reach. After performing the
traditional opening ceremony the Mayor usually takes off his hat, and the town
clerk hangs on to his wig for a civic whirl on the dodgems. But this time there
were no dodgems. There were not any coconut shies either, or rifle ranges, or
roundabouts. In fact Reach green was almost deserted apart from a hot dog caravan,
a fluffy doll stall, a sweet stand and a beer tent. The cause of all the trouble
was that the newly designated spring bank holiday this year had clashed with the
anniversary of the Reach fair charter, which was granted by King John in 1201

1948
A chapter of accident befell Miss Kay Stammers, one of Great Britain's two leading
women tennis stars, when she went to Soham recently. The purpose of her visit was
to "christen" a hard court presented to the town. Travelling from London by train
Kay intended to get out at Cambridge, but overshot her target and found herself in
Ely. She booked a taxi to take her back to Soham but it says little for the local
knowledge of the Ely taxi drivers for the car went straight through the village -
which has one of the longest main streets in Cambs - and on to Newmarket.
Eventually she arrived at Soham, where a mystified crowd awaited, only three-
quarters of an hour late

1923
An important report will be presented to Cambridge Town Council at their next
meeting. The sub-committee unanimously resolved that a vehicular bridge he placed
at the Walnut Tree Avenue site, and that a foot bridge should be placed at the
Pretoria Road site, and that tenders should be obtained at once for the
construction of the two bridges and the Ministry of Transport be approached with a
view to a grant towards the work

1898
There was but little crush as the stream of mourners poured from all quarters of
the town into Great St Mary's Church for the Memorial Service to Mr Gladstone. A
subdued calm seem to fall like a veil over the centre of Cambridge as the bell
tolled forth its tail of loss to the nation, and a hush, as it were, of the chamber
of death seemed even to spread itself over the busy market place. Quietly the
people filed into the Church and stepped into the first empty pew; none stopping to
haggle for a seat. Even as the doors were being closed, as the last bars of the
echoing National Anthem waned to science, latecomers yet found room in one or other
of the galleries, and no one was turned from the Church

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
1st June

1973
The skid-lid industry is booming in Cambridge where sales of motor cycle crash
helmets are rocketing. The reason for the boom is the June 1st deadline when police
start enforcing the new law that all riders of motor-cycles must wear securely-
fastened crash helmets. While 80 per cent of motorcycle owners currently wear crash
helmets far fewer passengers own or wear them. Now they will have to. At Halfords
in Bridge Street, Cambridge a spokesmen said their sales were up by at least 50 %.
Hallens of Cambridge, probably the city's biggest motor cycle and accessory firm
said; "Saturday was chaotic"

1948
Today the one-way traffic system designed to relieve congestion in the centre of
Cambridge came into operation. In Sidney Street and Bridge Street the traffic will
flow in a northerly direction towards Magdalene Street from the town centre, while
in St John's street and Trinity Street it will flow in a southerly direction
towards King's Parade. In Green Street traffic will flow in one direction from
Gifford Place to Trinity Street - and the remainder of Green Street will be open
for two-way traffic. This extension of "one-way" traffic will link up with the
system now in operation at St Mary's street, Market Hill (north side) and Market
Street

1923
Those who attend the Christ Pieces promenade concerts will learn with interest that
the Cambridge Town Council approved extensive improvements, including lighting to
the bandstand there, to purchase some 500 chairs "for the comfort of the concert
goers", and to set up a fenced enclosure, lined with a privet hedge, to accommodate
the seats. They further empowered the Committee to set up - as cheaply as possible
- glass screens, which will protect the musicians from summer and other breezes,
besides effecting an improvement in the acoustics of the stand. The superintendent
also produced a plan for the construction of ladies and gentlemen's lavatories on
Christ’s Pieces

1898
St Ives was all alive on the occasion of the Witsuntide fair. The show of horses
in East Street and the surrounding streets was fully up to the average, and many of
them were very fine animals. The stables in the town were crowded with horses and
the influx of dealers was great. Many London dealers went the rounds of the stables
on Sunday and completed their purchases on Monday morning, so that a large number
of the best of the animals were not shown in the fair at all. This is the first day
of the reopening of the store pig market, but we believe the supply was not a large
one. There are scarcely any shows, and only a few swings and sweet stalls. The
attendance of people was large

TUESDAY
2nd June

1973
A £90,000 bypass has brought peace to the village of Eltisley, near St Neots.
Suddenly last week the roar of traffic from the A45 ceased and a comparative
silence descended on the man road. The rumble of continental juggernauts stopped
and the danger from fast-moving cars almost disappeared. To celebrate the arrival
of the by-pass one young married couple took a leisurely stroll down the middle of
the old main road - something that would have been impossible during a normal bank
holiday with a stream of traffic travelling at least 50 mph. But not all Eltisley
welcomed the by-pass. The local garage owner, Mr Tim Furlonger, since it could be a
disaster as far as his business is concerned

1948
What is thought to be the biggest earth tremor in East Anglia since 1757 occurred
in the King's Lynn, Bury St Edmunds, Mildenhall and Cambridge area last Friday.
Observers distinctly felt it. In some places it was accompanied by a rumbling
noise. A Cambridge resident said; "I distinctly felt a 'bubbling' movement and
heard a slight rumbling noise while sitting in the living room after tea. I took no
further notice, however, thinking it may have been a passing bus or heavy vehicle"

1923
We have started on a new month, and everyone is hoping that it will be a marked
improvement on the last. Cambridge, perhaps more than any other town in the
country, needs a fine opening to June. A cold and rainy May Week is too horrible to
contemplate, and it will be a bad business indeed for boatmen, lodging-house
keepers, and tradesmen generally if the next few days do not see a change for the
better

1898
The red tape has all but unrolled, and the Chesterton playground is to be
redeemed. In November the school children, who number some 500, and other children,
will once more be allowed to sport on the "Old Town Close". A meeting to aquaint
the people of Chesterton with the present condition of affairs in the matter was
held last night. The chairman who was received with tumultuous stamping, said they
had done their best to bring the matter to a crisis as quickly as possible and had
made up their minds that they would make a forcible entry into the ground, would
make a gap in the fence at each end, and open the field for cricket or football.
But a benefactor had stepped in and offered to buy the land and give it back to the
villagers.

WEDNESDAY
3rd June
1973
Air pollution in the older parts of Cambridge is currently higher than the urban
average for East Anglia. Even so it is well below those of other parts of the
country. The National Survey of Air Pollution says "smoke concentrations in the
older high-density residential area are currently above the urban average, smoke
pollution in the remaining areas should be generally below average". Sulphur
dioxide concentration monitored on the roof of the Guildhall is below average, but
in other areas of Cambridge were not so favourable

1948
Sir - the one-way system has certainly created danger spots at the corner of St
John's street, Cambridge. They could be remedied by putting traffic lights there
back into operation. The only alternative would be to divert all traffic into Petty
Cury. Every user of Petty Cury will have to agree that it is already far too narrow
even for the present volume of traffic - pedestrians are crowded into the roadway
and bus drivers often have their work cut out to squeeze their buses through at
walking pace. Short of some more radical plan (e.g. banning all motor traffic from
the streets round Market Hill) I think the one-way system is as good as we shall
get - A.E.B. Owen

1923
The Cambridge town council will really have to be careful, or some of us will soon
be suffering from severe shock! I went in the gallery expecting another "battle of
the bridges", and, lo and behold, the report was passed without a word of comment,
other than the short speech in which Alderman Starr introduced it. Then to the
utter astonishment of everyone, the motion was put, there was not a single
dissident and the thing was done. Alderman Starr fell back in his chair almost
convulsed, the council burst into laughter, and some applauded. Now we are to have
the vehicular bridge at Walnut Tree Avenue and the foot bridge is to be at the
original Pretoria Road site. Well, well, let us hope all our other municipal
troubles end as easily .

1898
Among Huntingdon folk the prevailing topic is the St Neots poisoning case, all
interest being centred in it, save and except when the judges attendants, in their
rich attire, momentarily withdraw the attention of the admiring public to their
shapely calves. Inside the court Superintendent Copping did his best to squeeze as
many bona fide pressmen into the space as possible, and to reject those who laid
claim to be knights of the quill without satisfactorily proving it. Yesterday was
the opening day and many local celebrities were present. The judge said the only
important case was that of Walter Horsford who was committed for the murder of
Annie Holmes at St Neots

THURSDAY
4th June

1973
This is the week the bulldozers break through a tangle of red tape and purse
strings to make a start on two vital bypasses for towns in the Cambridge area.
Today a start is made at Huntingdon, in two days it will be the turn of Newmarket,
one of Britain's worst bottlenecks. The two schemes have escaped the Government's
road spending axe. Together they will cost £15 million and take two years to
complete

1948
Mr H.C. Bruce of New Fletton, Peterborough has written to say: "I have always had a
warm spot for the Cambridge Daily News. It has had some rough passages and I like
to think I helped it through one. When the 'Cambridge Gazette' started their new
plant in St Tibbs' Row they also came out with a fine new yellow cart with rubber
tyres. Every time we went out with our tall red cart with iron tyres and poor old
mare they could beat us, because they had a fast trotter. They got to the
newsagents first for some time and our returns began to increase, but with a little
ingenuity on the round at night we managed to get and keep the lead. I got those
papers to the agents before the 'Gazette' and had less returns to parcel up for
waste paper"

1923
Favoured with ideal weather the annual sports meeting arranged by the Pymoor and
Oxlode Committee attracted a large attendance. This event, which has the reputation
of being one of the best in the district, was more than up to the standard of
previous years, and some keen competition was provided for an enthusiastic crowd.
This year the interest of the meeting was enhanced by the production of a Challenge
cup for cycle racing, and A.F. Hawes, the well known Manea cyclist, was successful
in securing the honour of being the first holder of the trophy. The Manea Silver
Band rendered selections throughout the day and the proceedings were further
enlightened by entertainments by the Magpie Concert Party from Cambridge

1898
At Ely Urban District Council meeting Mr Wycherley asked why one of their employees
should be employed in cleaning windows at the Old Post Office in the council's
hours. The chairman remarked the surveyor must be careful in future, and not employ
the council's employees in the council's time upon such work. Work was reported to
have been done at the Fore Hill concrete paths, also asphalting the Palace Green.
The surveyor reported that 22 tons of broken granite had been received from the Ely
workhouse and was most satisfactory. The window blinds of the various shops were
satisfactory with a few exceptions, and the Clerk was directed to write to certain
parties who have not yet conformed to the regulations required

FRIDAY
5th June

1973
The Cambridge City Surveyor, Mr Geoffrey Cresswell, claimed today that speed-
reducing ramps built into roadways - sometimes called "sleeping policemen" are
"positively dangerous". He told the Public Works Committee that these bumps in the
road could cause fatal accidents, particularly to cyclists and motor-cyclists. The
Government are asking local councils to look for suitable areas where these ramps
could be installed. After a brief discussion the committee decided they did not
want any "sleeping policemen" in Cambridge

1948
The Queen came to join in the celebration of the 500th anniversary of the
foundation of Queens' college, Cambridge. Exactly on time the Royal car was seen
coming round the last curve in the road from Hauxton and only the strong arms of
the members of the Cambridge Police Force prevented the crowd from surging into the
road. But even they were not strong enough to hold the crowd back once the car had
stopped and within a few seconds it was completely surrounded so that Her Majesty,
even if she decided otherwise, was forced to remain in the car

1923
Sir - I agree that servants make good wives; so do other girls if they have been
brought up properly at home. The good places want finding. I myself had one where I
was treated just as one of the family, and no girl would wish for better. What I
suggest is this: as a maid has to produce a good character, so should a mistress
show one before she can get a good maid. I have four daughters and I shall not let
them go out to service unless I have a personal reference from the lady and can see
the bed my girls sleep in, and really know how they will be treated – A. Hardy

1898
The Cambridge YWCA, having found its old quarters growing too small and inadequate
to its requirements has obtained Geneva House, Regent Street, and there established
its head-quarters. Yesterday a meeting was convened at which the Vice Chancellor of
the university presided and spoke. He said that the new premises were in every way
more suited to the needs of the Association. In their new house the windows of the
back rooms, which he fancied would be those most used by the young women,
overlooked his garden, and he was unable to disabuse himself of an idea they would
keep an eye on him. The Master of Trinity then rose. He said he had known nothing
of the removal, and had been ignorant of the nature of the gathering he was to
address. He did not like to trust his eyes, which were not of the best. He had
never in all his experience known an educational establishment change its quarters
without bettering itself

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
8th June

1973
History was made in Cambridge today with the birth of the first calf from a frozen
embryo which had been transplanted into a host mother. The Hereford bull calf was
born at the Agricultural Research Council's Unit of Reproductive Physiology and
Biochemistry. The calf was reported to be in god condition by the pioneer of the
new technique, Dr L.E.A. Rowson of the Cambridge A.I. centre. The process has been
achieved successfully with a number of smaller animals like mice and rabbits but
this is the first time that it has been done with cattle

1948
Concern at the possibility of parts of Cambridgeshire countryside being taken over
by the R.A.F. for practice bombing ranges was voiced at a meeting in Trinity
College. They propose to set up practice bombing ranges at Babraham (near Duxford
aerodrome), East Hatley (near Bassingbourn and Bourn) and North of Whittlesey.
These ranges, it said, are used from time to time for dropping marker bombs only
and when the red flag is flying and the footpaths across are blocked. At Babraham
the range is crossed by two footpaths but the footbridge across the river is broken
down.

1923
With finer weather, the “Mays” bumping races came into their own. People came from
everywhere, on foot, awheel, and by that best of all ways - by water. The Lawns,
the Rectory Paddock, Ditton Meadows, and the Pitt Lawn assumed their familiar
aspect. Right from the Pitt Lawn, nearly to the Railway Bridge, was one mass of
riotous colour. Ladies were attired in summer dresses of varying hues - white,
green, blue, blue-grey, yellow, striped and spotted - the whole forming a pretty
picture against background of trees and grass. Some ladies wore costumes, some
carried furs on their shoulders, while others wore white summer coats. Mere men,
not to be outdone, made a brave show in flannels and gay blazer. Balloon vendors
added their quota to the brightness of the picture with their parti-coloured wares

1898
As a horse attached to a 2-wheeled trap, and driven by a butcher boy, containing
four fat pigs, belonging to Mr Clarke, Butcher, of Kneesworth Street, was
proceeding down High street, Royston, a heavy peal of thunder caused the horse to
come to almost a sudden standstill, thereby breaking both the shafts off close to
the front board. The animal commenced to kick, and freeing itself from the trap,
dashed down the street at a terrific rate, but fortunately did not come in to
collision with any other vehicle, the streets at the time of the accident been
quite clear of foot pedestrians and vehicles. The body of the trap containing the
pigs pitched backwards and precipitated the driver on the back of his head into the
road. The pigs were freed from their peculiar predicament by the cutting of the net
which covered them.

TUESDAY
9th June
1973
A severe shortage of casual labour in St Neots means that dustbins in the town
aren't being emptied every week. The council's Engineer said "No-one seems to want
jobs like emptying dustbins or cutting grass verges any more. Although people could
earn about £30 a week it just doesn't seem to attractive to them"

1948
There were a number of attractive dresses to be seen at the garden party which Her
Majesty the Queen attended at Queens' college, Cambridge, on Monday. I thought the
New Look dresses with their long skirts, well suited the function and the one or
two ground length frocks worn with picture hats looked graceful. The Queen gave a
fashion lead with her headwear, her head being encircled by pale blue net which had
no crown. Her dove grey two-piece, which took on a blue tint in the sun, was cut on
extremely simple lines. A close up view served to confirm the description of her
"lovely complexion" and the blue of her eyes

1923
Four undergraduates of Christ’s College, Cambridge, were summoned for wilfully
damaging a finger-post in Girton. They all pleaded guilty. P.C. Mead stated that
owing to complaints with reference to the post being pulled down five times before
he was instructed to watch the post. Four men came from a car and tried to pull
down the finger post. They did not succeed, and went back for some tools. At about
11.30 they succeeded in getting the finger off. When they had finished witness
caught the driver of the car, the other three ran away but came back later. One
said, "You have done me. It was too heavy. I could not run with it, it was wood
other times”. They said they did not know that there had been any accidents at
Girton, and that the signpost and been put up for the purpose of avoiding
accidents. They were fined £2 each

1898
Today we gathered in the little court of Huntingdon, which has become so familiar
to us during the past week, conscious that within a few minutes we should be
witness to the last dread incidents of the trial of Walter Horsford, the ruddy
young farmer who for the last four days had occupied that corner seat over there in
the dock. How the prisoner took the ghastly recital of the death struggle of Mrs
Annie Holmes could not be seen but to the ordinary hearers the narration of the
horrible incidents was sufficiently fearsome. After 25 minutes the twelve good men
and true returned and the Foreman rose and with a somewhat broken voice replied to
the usual question from the Clerk of the court, "Guilty." "Walter Horsford" said
the Clerk, "you have been convicted of the crime of wilful murder. What have you to
say why sentence of death should not be passed upon you." A momentary spasm passed
over his face, his lower lip quivered as with quavering voice he replied "I have
only to say that I am an innocent man."
WEDNESDAY
10th June

1973
Labour have taken control of the new Cambridge District Council with a landslide
win over the Conservatives. When the final results were declared they had a clear
majority of 10 on the new district council which supersedes the city council on
April 1 next year. This is the first time in Cambridge local government history
that Labour have won overall control. The Mayor of Cambridge, Ald. Stanley Bowles,
a former Conservative leader on the city council was defeated. He will continue as
mayor until the city council ceases

1948
Fifty seven year after he entered the University as an undergraduate Field Marshal
Smuts was today the recipient of the highest academic honour the university can
bestow when he was installed as Chancellor at a picturesque and dignified ceremony
in the Senate House. Afterwards, in a striking speech, he warned the world that
Soviet Communism, intoxicated with success, was directing a sustained, ruthless,
aggressive advance against an exhausted, war-weary, disillusioned West, and urged
that a halt be called to it

1923
The opening days of the second week of the "Mays" celebrations are usually noted
for the array of college balls and concerts, and this year is well in keeping with
tradition. On Monday there were three of these functions, - Caius, Clare, and First
and Third Trinity in addition to four concerts and a special dinner-dance at the
Rendezvous, and in each case a success can be recorded. The weather had improved to
such an extent that it allowed the usual outdoor part of the events to be carried
out to the full, and ample sitting out accommodation provided in various courts and
grounds. The largest function was at Trinity, where the attendance numbered
something like 1,400 or 1,500.

1898
Cambridge town council accepted a design for new police and fire brigade
buildings, which it is proposed to erect upon the Spinning House site. If the new
station is erected the whole of the existing buildings, which are not conspicuous
for their beauty, will be removed, with the exception of the chief constable’s
house, and the fire station and firemen’s quarters will be completely isolated from
the police building. A new main entrance will be erected and it is suggested that
the present stone gateway to the police station should be removed to the back
entrance in Downing place. The only elevation of any architectural pretensions will
be the main facade towards St Andrews’s street. A copula forming a central feature
will serve as a "look-out" in connection with the fire station. The plans include
provision for a mortuary.

THURSDAY
11th June
1973
Mid-Anglia police have armed themselves with CS gas shotguns for use in quelling
mob violence. The force are also standardising their other weapons. They have taken
delivery of five Smith and Wesson revolvers, the first batch of a total of 28
handguns the area's policemen will have at their disposal. To complete the arsenal
the Chief Constable has authorised the purchase of a dozen 7.62 mm rifles with
telescopic sights. Until last April the force held about a dozen .303 rifles and
about 30 assorted handguns
1948
Winston Churchill, master of phrases, became Winston Churchill, Doctor of Letters,
when he attended the honorary degrees ceremony at Cambridge Senate House. Second to
be conducted to the newly installed Chancellor, Field Marshal Smuts he gained the
biggest ovation of all the candidates. Throughout the few slow steps which Mr
Churchill took to come face to face with his Boer War enemy and staunch World Wars
colleague in arms, the cheering and clapping continued. It was an ovation rarely
heard in the Senate House, where gentle clapping is usually the greatest extent to
which dignity will unbend

1923
Brilliant in every way was the Masonic ball of the "Isaac Newton" University Lodge,
held at the Guildhall. The large room had been suitably changed for the occasion
and presented a pretty sight. The back of the orchestra was draped with gold and
red hangings, in front of which were a number of Masonic banners, flowers and
greenery almost hid the rest of the orchestra. At the other end the banners
supporting the balcony, and the front of the balcony itself, were covered with
greenery and coloured electric lights. The attendance numbered about 450 and the
outstanding feature was the brilliance of the ladies dresses, which presented a
wealth of animated colour. But this was added to by members of the Order, who were
dressed in full Masonic regalia

1898
It will be with sincere regret that the inhabitants of the Newmarket and Mildenhall
districts will learn of the impending retirement from the West Suffolk police force
of Superintendent Samuel Garnham Reeve. During the whole of his career he has been
a highly respected and popular officer and has been connected with the force no
fewer than 46 years, 15 of which have been spent as superintendent of the
Mildenhall Division. His resignation is on account of acute deafness, brought about
by rough usage, which he has received at various times in the execution of his
duty. He started his career as a police constable in June 1852 and is the oldest
police officer in service in the county of Suffolk

FRIDAY
12th June
1973
City council Alderman, Mr Jack Warren, will be elected as the first chairman of the
new Cambridge District Council. His vice-chairman will be city councillor Mrs Wendy
Nicol. Both are prominent Labour party members. Ald Warren has been a member of the
city council for more than 20 years. He was mayor during 1964. Mrs Nicol is a
comparative newcomer to the Cambridge local government scene, being first elected
just over a year ago. She is a former civil servant who has lived in Cambridge 30
years.

1948
Sir - I have just had the pleasure of reading your Diamond Jubilee supplement. It
took me back in thought half a century when Billy Gates sold ice cream from his gay
barrow - a halfpenny for a shallow glass and a penny for a deeper one, with a
choice of flavour - strawberry, vanilla or mixed. There were no refinements,
neither wafer nor spoon: we used our tongues and Billy dipped the used glass in a
pail of water. It was a primitive service. To lick ice cream on Market Hill was, no
doubt, very bad form, but it was jolly good taste! - H.R.Royston

1923
The annual Inter-Varsity military tournament was held on the University Rifle
Range, Grange Road when Cambridge beat Oxford by six events to 4. Perhaps the most
popular event was the tent pegging, which reached an extremely high standard. One
rarely sees it done better at Olympia. The artillery drive, too, was extremely well
done. Some regular artillery offices in the audience, the hardest critics of all,
seemed somewhat sceptical about it when the team drove into the arena, but after
the first-time round their criticism changed to praise. The events won by Cambridge
were the R.F.A. Alarm race, the individual jumping, the half section jumping, tent
pegging, wrestling on horseback, and the cavalry dummy thrusting but they were
beaten by Oxford in the cable laying competition. Oxford’s other successes were the
bayonet fighting, the artillery driving, and the tug of war.

1898
Swavesey had a first class sensation on Monday night. It is not used to such
novelties. It appears Swavesey has a widow. Nothing strange about that. But this
was a fascinating widow. Nothing remarkable even about that. Her husband is
scarcely cold in his newly-made grave before he is superseded. This is the story
which bought out the inhabitants in hundreds into the main street to celebrate the
widow on Monday evening. From eight o'clock until eleven the rattle of tin cans,
the whistling and shouting, hooting and yelling, and a tuning of various other
musical and unmusical instruments, filled the air in this usually quiet village.
Whether these noisy attentions of the neighbours will do any real good is open to
question

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
15 June

1973
Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, relaxed and obviously enjoying her visit to
Wesley House, Cambridge, delayed part of her programme to talk to more members of
the college than planned. The six-year-old daughter of the Senior Tutor - Rosemary
Skinner - showed a marked reluctance to hand over a posy of flowers to the Queen
Mother, but the three-year-old son of the college students' chairman decided to
make his own impromptu and unscheduled offering of a potato crisp. And watched by
the Lord Lieutenant, the university's divinity professors and a host of other
dignitaries young John Oglesby persisted and all the assembled guests had to wait
their turn. The queen Mother, in a grandmotherly way, accepted his gift with thanks
and a brief chat

1948
One of the worst storms ever witnessed by Linton residents resulted in several
houses being flooded there yesterday, and one of the roads being partially blocked
by a huge mound of earth which was swept down from the fields through a hole which
had been torn in the bank. There was a terrific cloudburst about 7.30pm followed by
torrential rain. Owing to the flooding of several council houses on the Balsham
Road the Linton National Fire Service were called out and spent 3½ hours in the
cellars of half a dozen houses pumping out water which was about 8 foot deep

1923
May Week this year must surely have been one of the worst on record, from the point
of view of the townspeople. One hears on every hand expressions of disappointment
and dolorous comparisons with the “good old days”. The motor car is largely
responsible for the tailing off in the number of people who stay in the town during
May Week. Motor travel is so speedy and comfortable nowadays that quite a large
proportion of the people who used in the old days to book rooms now run into
Cambridge in the morning and return home again at night. A local tradesmen told me
that he used to be busy during the week until the late hour, being engaged in
waiting on customers at their rooms after closing his shop at 8 pm, but now
business is completely dead after about six o'clock.

1898
A small fire occurred at the premises of Messrs Thomas Stearn and Son,
photographers, at Bridge Street, Cambridge. The conflagration broke out in the
darkroom and was probably caused by woodwork becoming overheated by gas. A
considerable amount of photographic apparatus was destroyed by the flames, and some
of the chemicals exploded with some violence in the heat. About 16 firemen turned
out with a hose cart and three reels, causing no little excitement in the
neighbourhood, but by the time they arrived on the scene the outbreak had already
been extinguished by the inmates, by means of buckets
TUESDAY
16th June

1973
"If your face doesn't fit don't be surprised if you are told". Thus runs an entry
for a Cambridgeshire pub in a new guide to hostelries. The pub? The Tickell Arms at
Whittlesford - and the outspoken entry appears in the Country Gentlemen's
Association Pub Guide. But to the landlord-owner Mr Kim Tickell it comes as no
surprise - his establishment has appeared in a number of guides - but later been
removed for a variety of reasons. The entry reads "a unique place and unlike
anything else in the world. The landlord is apt to leap over the bar, insult you,
send you into fits of laughter, depending on his or your mood". It gets bottom
marks for service

1948

Strong protests with regard to the filling of the tip opposite the Gasworks in
Newmarket Road were voiced at Cambridge Town Council and it was recommended that a
corrugated iron fence be erected along the whole of the frontage to Newmarket Road.
Moving an amendment requiring owners to remove "the existing barrier of motor
bodies", Councillor Gilbert said that residents had complained about the smell and
inconvenience caused by the owners putting a number of dismantled motor bodies
along the frontage. Coun. Cutting said there was filth, disease and "the most
unsightly heap of rubbish you have ever seen in England" at this place and it was
increasing day by day

1923
A remarkable story of how a large sum of money was snatched from the jaws of
death, as typified by the corporation refuse destructor reached me the other day.
It appears that a certain tradesman on Peas Hill, Cambridge, had by some strange
mischance consigned a wallet containing money to the dustbin. A frenzied telephone
message to the contractor revealed that one of his dustcarts had collected at the
address that day. The cart was searched, but without success. Eventually the
missing wallet was discovered on the very threshold of destruction and found to
contain Treasury notes to the value of between £200 and £300. Some people back
Derby winners and others have luck in other directions.

1898
The Cambridge surveyor gave particulars of what the council propose to do to the
roads. From Station Road to St Andrew’s street it was proposed to lay Australian
“Jarrah” hardwood blocks in the whole of the carriageway. These blocks would also
be laid between the tramlines. In Corn Exchange Street the paving was now granite,
very rough, large setts being used. They had been put down probably 30 or 40 years.
It was now proposed to substitute the wood blocks.

WEDNESDAY
17th June

1973

Marshall of Cambridge (Engineering) have just finished a nose transplant - on a

giant Hercules transport aircraft. The successful transplant "operation" took two
years to perform. The modified aircraft will investigate turbulence in clear and
cloudy weather and is the only one of its kind. Inside the Hercules the
transformation has been no less striking. A laboratory has been constructed and
four scientists can keep track of data as it flows from the nose instruments to the
aircraft’s "brain centre"

1948
Cambridge Town Council discussed proposals for the future of the disused factory
site at Madingley Road. Ald Wilding said he was under the impression when the works
were first erected early in the war that the Ministry had given an assurance of
their removal within a reasonable time. He was therefore surprised to see that
other buildings were to be erected in their place. Counc. Mrs Rackham spoke of the
damage already done to that approach to Cambridge and asked if the buildings were
to be used for atomic energy research. If so the Council had already granted 200
acres in Barton road for that purpose

1923
Even on days when the Tripos lists were read out in the Senate House by the
examiners the men's lists were handed in a sealed envelope to the chairman of the
examiners by an official from the Registry, and the women's lists in another sealed
envelope were handed in by an official from the local examinations and lectures
syndicate. In the old days, when the order of merit in the various triposes used to
attract large crowds of undergraduates to the floor of Senate House to hear the
lists read out from East Gallery, it was always a standing joke that as soon as the
examiner read out the word "women" the undergraduates would call out "ladies".

1898
A few evenings ago a young cyclist well known in Broad street, Ely, was
"scorching" along the Stretham Road. It was nearly dark, and he saw in the distance
what appeared to him two bicycles outbreast, with lights shining brightly. Being
adept on the cycle, he thought he would shoot between them, when much to his
surprise, and before he could stop his "horse", he found he had collided with a
traction engine, much to the damage of the bike.

THURSDAY

18th June

1973

Waterbeach may get a £150,000 by-pass instead of just a new minor road into the
village - because of Cambridge's traffic problems. If the plans are accepted the
by-pass will link the main Cambridge-Ely road near the Slap-Up junction with the
Clayhithe Bridge over the River Cam. The mile-long by-pass would replace the short
stretch of road originally planned to link the A10 with the centre of Waterbeach.
The County Surveyor said that the by-pass was now being recommended because of the
large volume of traffic using the Fen Ditton - Waterbeach road as a short-cut to
the Eastern side of Cambridge to avoid the congested city streets

1948
The chairman of Cambridge Housing Committee reported that 180 permanent houses had
been completed so far this year and it was hoped to complete 312 permanent
dwellings by the end of the year. Of the 458 houses under construction (236
permanent traditional and 222 permanent non-traditional) and 104 under contract
there were a number of "Duplex" houses, which would be used in the first instance
by two families as separate flats. They could subsequently, when desired, be
converted into ordinary houses

1923
Further particulars of the sensational motor accident on the borders of Derbyshire
which resulted in the death of Mr W. R. Finbow are now available. It appears that
Mr Finbow had a removal contract from Chorley, Lancashire, to Cambridge for which
he enlisted the help of Mr Holliman’s van. Mr Finbow's own van was loaded up and
left for Cambridge first. This reached its destination in safety, albeit with the
brakes burnt out. Mr Finbow chose to come back in the other van. Approaching a
bridge on a steep and winding road the heavily laden furniture van began to descend
the hill. The brakes were applied, but refused to act and the van started to career
down the hill at 50 miles an hour and making so much noise that the inhabitants of
the village at the foot of the hill were out in the road to see what was happening.
Mr Finbow was standing on the footboard shouting suggestions and about 20 yards
from the bridge fell he from the vehicle and the wheels passed over his body.

1898
We have received a copy of the petition presented to the Home Secretary, praying
for the reprieve of Walter Horsford who lies in prison at Cambridge under sentence
of death for the murder of Annie Holmes. It says the purchase of strychnine by the
condemned man (upon which the prosecution relied) was made in an open manner in
Thrapston. The police limited their searches to the chemists of the neighbourhood,
from which in all probability a murderer would not secure poison. In any case it
seems incredible that the condemned man should have acted so openly, if with a
felonious design. Even if he did send the poison it is difficult to believe he did
so with the object of killing the deceased woman

FRIDAY
19th June
1973
Mid-Anglia revelled in rain last night. Nearly one-and-a-half inches soaked the
area - about a quarter of this year's total rainfall - and although there was some
damage to crops and minor flooding in country areas, farmers said that the rain
came just in time to save the threat of poor
crops. The downpour also helped the water shortage temporarily but a water board
spokesman said: "No-one should think they can go ahead and use all the water they
can. We are still in difficulties". The only flooding of any proportion was at Duck
Lane, St Neots, a notorious spot for trapping water

1948
A rider that all P.O.W.s should be given regular instructions on the rules of the
road in this country was given by a jury returning a verdict of "Accidental death"
on Hryhorij Wolanskj, an Ukrainian POW of 85 POW Satellite camp, Barton Fields,
Ely. John Ada of St Mary's street, Ely, said he saw the Ukrainian completely ignore
the "Halt" sign in Downham Road and came straight across the road without looking,
crashing in to a red motor van. Victim had been in the Ely camp since January 1948.
The Camp Commandant stated that his records showed Wolanskj had received
instruction in road safety at his previous base at Braintree. He must have known
the meaning of the "Halt" sign as there was a large one just outside the camp

1922
Sir- I was interested to read your article about donkeys at Midsummer Fair. The
rides are no doubt appreciated by the kiddies, but it is surely going too far when
"kiddies" of 18 and 25 are seen mounting on the backs of our four-footed friends.
The ponies are started off on a run of 100 yards, and tear backwards and forwards,
sweating and blowing, without a minute’s rest, beaten with sticks and sundry kicks,
yells and curses. The police should look into the matter for there is nothing more
painful to watch than the ill-treatment of a dumb animal and if a young man of 18
cares to make an ass of himself to ride on something intended for a child, it will
be easy to discover the bigger donkey of the two. - A Lover of Animals

1898
A smoking concert was held under the auspices of the Haverhill Rovers Football
Club. Mr Griggs said that throughout the past season the club had afforded much
amusement and many a pleasant afternoon to those who witnessed their various games.
Unfortunately, the elements had not always been what they deserved, and through
that the gate money had undoubtedly fallen off. But it was a pleasure to know that
the club had been able to meet their liabilities and had a decent balance at their
bankers. Haverhill ought really to be proud of having a team who were able to win a
trophy which was so much coveted (the West Suffolk need cup)

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
22nd June

1973
A 7 1/2 cwt bullock, slaughtered on Monday, was hoisted on to a pit alongside a
wood fire in the Park at Ely. For the next three days it will be slow-roasted ready
for a barbecue that will form part of an Ely festival year entertainment on
Saturday night. The operation is being supervised by Ely butcher, Mr Toni Rayment.
It is the first whole ox is to be roasted in Ely for 38 years. The last time was in
May 1935 when his father roasted one for King George's jubilee celebrations. It
will be cut into 5,000 helpings.

1948
A squadron of the Royal Corps of Signals, Territorial Army, is to be raised in
Cambridge. Its headquarters will be at the Saxon Works. It will be a direct
successor to the Signals unit raised here in 1939, established in Station Road in
August 1939. Major C. Loveday was the company commander and the Company served an
important defence area during the war and soon acquired a first-class reputation
for efficiency and reliability.. Men from this Company served in all theatres of
war with considerable credit.

1923
There is a party of Cambridge undergraduate members of the Officers Training Corps
under canvas at Bournemouth and last night they broke loose and came out to ta-ta
all by themselves. About three hundred of them found their way into Bournemouth.
When they got to the pier the sea air went straight to their heads. They squatted
themselves down and ate what they called a banana supper during which they sucked
oranges and supped beer. Meanwhile they cheered everybody and everything. They
unearthed a policeman and danced a polka around him while he looked on them
benignly and let them make things lively.

1898
Inspector Jordan of the N.S.P.C.C. said he visited a house at Portland Place
Cambridge. There he saw six children ranging in age from 12 years down to six
months. The children appeared to the very neglected, were filthily dirty, and the
three-year-old child had only one garment on although he was lying in front of the
fire, suffering from a very bad cold. Each child seemed to have but one ragged
garment. The mother was apparently sober, but as dirty and ragged as the children.
She was feeding the baby on bread and cold water and said she had no milk. The
living room was filthy, and the other room contained one "truckle" bedstead in a
loathsome condition. Upstairs there was no furniture. On the table there was a loaf
of bread - that was all.

TUESDAY
23rd June

1973
Claims by a prominent Cambridge trades unionist that many bored and disgruntled
Cambridge city council tenants were demanding to be moved from the Arbury estate
were rejected this afternoon by the Housing Committee chairman, Coun John Powley.
The claims were made by Don Millard. He said both young and old people were asking
to be moved nearer to the city centre because they were bored with life at Arbury.
He added that the boredom was due to the lack of social and community facilities
and a dearth of public houses. The claims were supported by Counc Mrs Janet Jones,
a Labour county councillor for the area. "Arbury and Kings Hedges are just like an
isolated satellite town", she said. "People are always asking us to help them move
away because they do not like living there"

1948
By June 18th 89% of the general practitioners in Cambridge and county had accepted
service under the new Health Service Act. A preliminary list of the doctors was
pinned up in all post offices yesterday. Formerly the number of insured people in
this area was 75,000. From July 5th the number will have more than doubled - the
population of the area being 160,000. In spite of all that has been written about
the National Health Service many are fogged about what they should do. Everyone
over 16 can choose his or her own doctor. People wishing to do so may still go to
their usual doctor as a private patient.

1922
Ely rural district surveyor reported on the manure heaps in Long Drove, Haddenham.
Mr Heffer said it would certainly injure the smallholders and farmers if they were
stopped putting their heaps of manure in the droves. Mr Porter said it was causing
an obstruction. He did not wish to debar them from getting the manure out but if
they were going to allow anyone and everyone to put manure on public highways the
council were creating a very dangerous precedent. Mr Kisby said that it would cause
hardship for it was possible that many of those men had a big accumulation of
manure which could not easily be moved.

1898
Cottenham broke its own record last night in the matter of enjoyment. At the White
Horse Inn there was an exhibition of open expressions and sets of fine teeth.
Messrs Lacon and Co Ltd, recently purchased both Preston’s and Apthorpe's breweries
and arranged this gathering as a sort of house warming, inviting the firm's tenants
and customers of Cottenham, and selecting this particular house because of the very
excellent room for the accommodation of the guests. First of all a capital knife-
and-fork tea was provided. This was followed by a programme of unusual excellence
and Cottenham men, if unsuitable for juries, are a capital audience for
appreciation, choruses and laughter.

WEDNESDAY

24th June
1973

Two Mid-Anglia farm workers with 106 years service between them will be presented
with long-service awards at the East of England Show. Mr Bertie Cowl of Soham can
look back on 52 years on the land, most of them working for the same employer. Mr
Harry Pryor can look back on an almost unbroken span of 54 years on the same farm
at Great Shelford. Mr Cowl was born in Soham Fen. When the late Mr Herbert Bedford
took over Fletcher's farm he joined him and has been there ever since. As farming
has become more mechanised Mr Cowl has one special regret: "I particularly miss
horses", he said. Mr Pryor who is 70 started on a farm at the age of 10 as a part-
time cattle drover earning 3d a week. "We used to leave off school at 12 and then
I'd run down to the village to take the cows from the fields into the barns for
milking". He has never fully come to terms with driving a tractor and still looks
back affectionately to when horse provided the power in the fields

1948
Fifty years railway service has been brought to an end by the retirement of Mr S.N.
Wright from his post as Station Master at Cambridge. In Sept 1930 he was appointed
Yard Master at Whitemoor, the only mechanised marshalling yard in this country, as
a replica of the famous Hamm Yard in Germany. He was the first Yard Master to see
the new working layout. At the time he took over the up yard had just been
completed and the down yard was started the following year. He became Station
Master in Cambridge in 1934. Recalling the war years he spoke of the high level of
troop trains and special oil trains for the supply of various depots and dromes in
East Anglia. During the war he was also Air Raid Master for station, goods and
shunting yards, and in addition in charge of the fire watching for the same area

1923
Midsummer fair seems to get bigger than ever. From all appearances the amusement
caterers and smallholders are going to do good business. Hoop-las are not so
plentiful, but there are many new ingenious contrivances to extract the pence from
those who are out for an evening's merriment. The sideshows are certainly more
numerous, but one still misses the large pavilions in which the "animated pictures"
were shown. The cinemas have evidently killed these stone dead. A visit to the fair
is well worth while, even if one does not feel equal to a trip on a roundabout, a
swing round on a chairoplane, or some other more or less thrilling diversion.

1898
Woodhurst was all astir on the occasion of the Church feast. The principal Street
was gaily decorated with flags, and in a field close to the Church was a round-
about, swings, coconut shieing, and sweet stalls which were well patronise. A large
number were present from the surrounding villages, and a strong contingent from St
Ives who journeyed over in waggonettes, traps, and all sorts of vehicles.
Bicyclists were also in strong evidence and a few even tramped the distance.

THURSDAY
25th June

1973

The Bishop of Ely, the Rt. Rev. Edward Roberts, and the Bishop of Huntingdon, the
Rt. Rev Eric Walls, completed their 300 miles "beat the bounds" tour of their
widespread diocese on Saturday. And their return together to Ely brought shopping
to a standstill. Shopkeepers and their staffs, summer dressed and shirt-sleeved
customers, lined the streets to watch the Bishops, accompanied by Ely's civic
leaders, join in a procession of over 300 diocesan churchwardens to the cathedral
for a service addressed by the Archbishop of Canterbury to mark the 1,300th
festival service - on St Etheldreda's day

1948
"Out of every four marriages celebrated in Cambridge this week the ratio of
breakage will be one" the Rev John Crowlesmth, director of the Cambridge Marriage
Guidance Centre said. He gave five main reasons. The transition in the pattern of
family life in which the father was only one of a circle in which his authority
counted for nothing. "The wheel has turned quite obviously and we men are now the
submissive sex", he said. He also considered that attempts to get married women
into industry were in the long run going to be a fatal mistake in the development
and encouragement of family life. Sexual ignorance and the wrong sexual technique,
housing difficulties and hasty marriages were other causes and the fifth was the
lack of personal conviction about the meaning of life.

1923
Mr Reynolds told the Royal Sanitary Institute meeting at Cambridge that there were
scores of cowsheds being altered every day, and no dairy should have a door
entering into the house; yet there were scores like that, and the farmer’s wife did
not like the idea of having them closed. They knew full well that there were
certain people who could not keep their own houses clean, let alone dairies. The
chairman said he was convinced of the fact that the drinking of more milk would do
the public health very much good. One of the greatest public needs of the present
was that people should drink more milk and drink less tea, which did no good to the
children.

1898
At last, but not at length, for only part of it is ready yet, the spot known
hitherto as the St Matthews recreation ground, Cambridge, has had an official
opening. Now it is rechristened "St Matthews Piece". The aspect is as yet of the
distinctly "clean and not gaudy" type, comprising a rectangular enclosure, around
which a spiked fence rears its effective points, and the inside is gravel all over,
offering unbounded scope for young Barnwellians to develop "gravel rash". In 1892
the Corporation had represented the desirability of obtaining a piece of open
ground in that thickly populated neighbourhood. Many delays occurred, and in 1895
the Commons committee took the ground over. They found a great many obstacles in
the way of levelling and preparing the ground and there were many legal questions
which took a long time.

FRIDAY
26th June
1973
A £750,000 deal has been signed for Sinclair Radionics Ltd, of St Ives, to supply
more than 30,000 electronic pocket calculators to Japan over the next 18 months.
Sinclair, who claim to be the largest European manufacturer of electronic
calculators say that the order will mean a 50 per cent increase in the present
staff of 120. To help with production they have just taken a lease on a second
factory at St. Ives. Mr Clive Sinclair claims the Executive is the world's smallest
pocket calculator - it is the size of a 5p bar of chocolate. It sells at a price
which puts it at the top end of the market in Japan, in line with their policy of
selling a product which has quality and features which make it a prestigious
purchase

1948
Six undergraduates have published a report setting forth the possibilities of
creating a University Radio Station in Cambridge, operated by undergraduates and
broadcasting regular programmes in term time for a local audience. A specimen
programme shows it would have excepts from local functions, interviews, reading,
dramatic and musical productions, sport, news and talks on a variety of subjects

1923
The President of the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce and of the Propaganda and
development committee write: "We enclose a further list of donations to the fund
for advertising Cambridge as a holiday resort. The advertising campaign is being
proceeded with at all possible speed. An order has been placed for printing 20,000
copies of a free guide to Cambridge, and a design for a striking poster by a first-
class artist has been approved and will be printed at once. The committees are also
preparing a list of accommodation available for visitors which will be sent to
inquirers. The newspaper advertising campaign is about to commence and orders have
been faced for the insertion of advertisements in London and Provincial Newspapers”

1898
On Thursday last Captain Mutton of the Ramsey fire brigade gave out to his fireman
the new brass helmets recently ordered by the Urban District Council. They were
supplied by Messrs Merryweather. Ramsey Fishing Association has been holding a
tournament for a week. Anglers could go on any one day. Only three anglers had
weighed in by 9 pm on Thursday night. Mr F Haythorpe fished from 4 am to 9 pm for
his 1lb 1oz. Ten or twelve were out on Thursday, but sport was poor.

LOOKING BACK

MONDAY

29th June

1973

Hutingdon's "forgotten" town museum may be re-born if plans by the local history
society get off the ground. They want to build up a town museum in one of the many
county council buildings in the town which may become vacant when the new district
council takes over next year. The chairman, Mr Philip Dickinson, said tht a
Government report, out yesterday, which hits out at the way the county is
neglecting its local museums, could hav e been written for Huntingdon, whose museum
closed in 1950

1948
Ever since his death in February 1804, there has been considerable legendary
speculation in Lt Abington about one Jeremiah Lagden, so much in fact that he has
grown into the most notorious character in the village's history. Legend has it
that Jeremiah was a highwayman and people would point to his family vault in the
unconsecrated garden at "The Old House, Lt Abington. The vault received a direct
hit by a German bomb during the early part of the war. Owing to the necessity of
reconstructing the birgde it was found necessary to disturb the vault. So on Friday
several villagers participated in the very simple ceremony of re-interment. The
whole proces took little more than five minutes

TUESDAY
30th June
1973
Latest casualty in the Hills Road ofice redevelopment programme i the 100-year-old
Methodist Church. Demolition work started yesterday. In autumn last year any people
weere surpised to learn that an active church in so sound a financial position and
uch good repair shuld close its doors. But the trustees had been aware for some
time that the buiding was just too large; it has a seating capacity for 750 and a
congregation of less than 200. The congregation transferred to the Wesley Church,
Christ's Pieces, or to other Methodist churches closer to their homes. The property
went on the market in November 1972.
1948
Speaking at Addenbrooke's Hospital on the change of the hospital's constitution, Mr
R.H. Parker, chairman of the old General committee warned of the danger of a
leveliing down of service, instead of a levelling up to the highest grade. He
referred to the "family atmosphere" in the hospital and said the staff had always
been able freely to discuss their problems and difficulties, whether it be in the
board oom, the wards, or outside, an thy had always known that help would be
forthcoming. They trusted that the new Board would be as understanding as had the
old General Committee
WEDNESDAY
1st July
1973
Mr Clement Freud is to be Liberal candidate in the Isle of Ely by-election. he was
chosen last night by a convincing vote by the Isle Liberal Association. It is the
first time Mr Freud, a journalist, television personality and gourmet has stood for
parliament. The by-eection is caused by the death of Conservative MP, Sir Harry
Legge-Bourke

1948
To prevent unhappiness in marriage caused by sterility Dr Bethel Solomons
recommended fertility tests before marriage during a session of the British Medical
Association conference i Cambridge. He said more men and women were miserable from
the lack of children than from most other colaints. Sex education should be give in
schools and by parents. "Trial marriages" had been suggested, but even if these
were socially possible, non-fertility for six months did not mean it was
necessarily lasting
THURSDAY
2nd July
1973
Joe Bugner will be the world heavy-weight champion in two years tie. This is the
prediction of his manager, Mr Andy Smith, today as he reported Bugner fit and well
after his tremendous 12 rounds battle with Joe Frazier,the former world champion.
After Bugner's points defeat, Andy Smithsaid: "We have no regrets either abot last
night's fight, nor the one Joe lost of Muhammad Alie in February. I would be
happier id he had won"

1948
What might be termed the swan-Song of the Cambridge County Council Public
assistance Committee took place at Shire Hall. In common with many other similar
committees its duties will be taken over by the Ministry of Health on 5th July. The
chairman, Mrs Mellish Clark, said that at the County Hospital Mill Road they
decided to develop the maternity work, to close the causal wards and move the
nursery children out to Linton. At Chesterton Hospital the had built a new casual
ward, but when the war came these wards were converted by the additional of
hospital beds and were being so used at the present time. At Linton they had built
a Nurses Home but as there was no proper sanitation t Caxton they had decided to
pull it down

FRIDAY

3rd July
1973
For the first time sales at the St Neots Co-operative Society have topped the
£1,000,000 mark in a year, to complete a decade in which the society have broken
records on all fronts every year. "Up until 1962 we were just jogigng along, doing
all right, but nothing sensational. But since then sales have gone up evry year",
said the managing secretary, Joe Brooks. The net profit woud be available to
members either through the Co-op trading stamps or the "nest egg" bonus scheme.The
President, HS. Cobbold, said the management and staff were responsible for the
"excellent progres" of the St Neots Co-operative Society, and thy had made "a
success story of whch St Neots could be justly proud"

1948
The annual dinner of the British Medical Association Conference was easily the
largest function of its kind that has been seen in Cambridge since the outbreak of
the war. The company in the Dorothy ballroom numbered 420 and I don't think it
would have been humanly possible to get another dozen in. Mr George Hawkins told me
that once before the Dorothy had 464 at a Builder's Federation but this was only
rendered possible by having an overflow in the foyer adjoining the ballroom. Such a
dinner means elaborate arrangements over a long perid beforehand. It is definitely
not the sort of function that can be undertaken at a moment's notice

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
6th July

1973
Emergency hospital treatment had to be given to 11 people after a drum of poisonous
chemical spilled on to the roadway at one of Cambridge’s busiest junctions as the
afternoon rush hour started. The chemical spilled when the drum containing ethyl
acrylate split open after falling from a lorry at the Huntingdon Road - Histon Road
corner. Immediately the air, in spite of a strong breeze was pungent with the smell
of the liquid. The police and fire brigade were called to deal with the problem.
The drama, which led ultimately to the total ban of traffic at the junction began
at 3.10pm, by 6pm the acrylate was safely loaded on to a sand covered trailer, then
in convoy with two fire tenders and police cars it was taken at less than 10 mph
the seven miles to the Royal Engineer's airfield at Waterbeach

1948
Under the new National Health Service the Nursing Association service is to be
taken over by the County Council. In reviewing their history it was reported that
Mrs Marcus Dimsdale and Mrs Mellish Clark were put on the newly set up County
Insurance Committee in 1911 one of the tasks was to provide nursing for patients
suffering from tuberculosis who, owing to the acute shortage of sanatorium beds,
had to be treated in their own homes. It was discovered that less than half the
villages in the county had the services of a district nurse. A public meting was
held in 1913 and it was agreed to form a County Nursing Association

1923
For a century the East Anglian district has been connected with the Loyal Order of
Ancient Shepherds, but not until this year has it been fortunate enough to have a
member erected Chief Shepherd of the Order. This honour has fallen to a well known
resident of Ely, Mr J. W. Merrywest. He has been a member of the order since he was
six years of age. As district secretary for East Anglia he has under his
supervision branches in nearly every village and town, with a membership of 13,000.

1898
George Stace, draper, of Petty Cury, Cambridge, was summoned for employing Kate
Ladds after eight o'clock contrary to the Workshops and Factories Act. She said she
was 17 years of age. On June 4th she began work at nine o'clock in the morning and
finished at 9.20 at night. She was not paid anything extra for the overtime. Out of
the time mentioned she had an hour and a half for meals. She said some of the
employees in the showroom began at 8.30. On this particular night she was making a
hat that a lady wanted home that night. Mr Stace was not a hard taskmaster and was
not sweating the girls he employed. He was fined one shilling.

TUESDAY
7th July

1973
Oakington, the last operational RAF airfield in Cambridgeshire is to close down and
will be sold off within two years, the Defence Lands Committee have recommended.
The committee also says that other mid-Anglian airfields and military sites should
be returned to civilian use and over 600 acres of land at Molesworth should be
sold. It was a bomber base during the war and is now used as a United States Air
Force stores and housing complex in association with their use of RAF Alconbury

1948
Mr George Dennis Day, for 50 years Town Clerk of St Ives died at his home. He was
one of a "dynasty" of town clerks. His father was the first to hold the office
being succeeded by his son in 1890. Following Dennis Day's half-century of service
his son, Mr George Lewis Day was appointed to the office. The Day family's
tradition of local government service was founded in 1837 when George Game Day was
appointed the first clerk to the Borough guardians, an office he held for half a
century and relinquished to his son

1923
The Master of Downing College told the Cambridge University Local Lectures Jubilee
conference that he his short experience as an extension lecturer made one realise
that one's knowledge was not as extensive as one thought. When a lecturer was
appointed in the university before intra-mural work one of the last questions which
any one thought of asking was "Can he lecture?" (Laughter). If every university
lecturer was required to give a trial lecture before a select body of experienced
extension lecturers the university would reap no little advantage. The extension
lecturer was trained by his audience to be a lecturer and educated by his audience
to a better understanding of his subject.

1898
Mr Foster told a meeting in the parish room adjacent to St Mark's temporary
Church, Newnham Croft, that he remembered hearing about 20 years ago, that it was
seriously proposed that St Botolph's Church should be removed bodily and re-erected
on the present site of Caius fellows’ garden. The idea was not responded to and the
consequence was that that part of Newnham was left without a place of worship, and
eventually that Little St Mark's Church was erected. When he first came to that
neighbourhood, 15 years ago, he remembered thinking what a poor, dilapidated place
it was, and wondering how long they in that corner of Cambridge would have to
worship there. But he had got to know St Mark's so well that he looked upon it now
has a dear little place. They would all be sorry to have it removed but it was only
a temporary building, and temporary buildings must give way to permanent ones.
WEDNESDAY
8th July
1973

Hundreds of tons of high explosives are driven through Cambridge every week on
open-backed unmarked lorries. This was revealed yesterday after one of the lorries
burst a tyre on Huntingdon Road, a mile from the spot where 48 hours earlier a drum
of deadly poison fell off a lorry and burst. The high explosives come through
Cambridge en route from Felixstowe docks to an ammunition manufacturer at Grantham.
Dozens of unmarked lorries pass through Cambridge every week to 10 days carrying
the explosives. Many then return to Felixstowe carrying the finished product,
various types of ammunition for export abroad

1948
Tenants of the Newmarket Urban District Council's new Heath Lodge estate are in
revolt against the council's decision to increase their rent to 25s. per week for
three-bedroomed houses and 27s.6d a week for four-bedroom houses - an average
weekly increase of nearly 5s. 54 of the 60 tenants on the estate have signed a
petition against the increase and last night at an open-air meeting they decided to
send a deputation to meet the council

1923
Unusual interest was taken in the A.A.A. open championships. From a local point of
view our interest was mainly in the Varsity men who again perform most creditably.
One must sympathise with Dr R Salisbury Woods, the greatest weight putter Cambridge
has ever had. For years he has performed annually at the championships and last
year was unplaced at 40 feet one inch. He could not compete this year owing to an
operation and the event was won at 39 feet 2 1/4 inches. Some people seem to be
disappointed that Harold Abrahams did not again carry off three events but I do not
think that he was quite at the top of his form. His jumping was magnificent he has
improved in this event so much that I am hoping he will be able to hold his own
against the world next year.

1898
Sir - As a visitor to Cambridge I was induced last weekend to take a trip on the
Cam. I shall not soon forget it. My adviser took particular care to impress me with
the fact that Cambridge had been granted a new method of sewage disposal, and on
that account I should not inhale such odours as at one time were the characteristic
feature of the river trip. But to my disgust, I found another evil had arisen. The
river was strewn with dead dogs and cats. Between Walnut Tree Lane and Baitsbite I
counted no less than a dozen of such corpses, not always by the bank side, but
floating in the middle of the river - Tourist

THURSDAY
9th July
1973
Long trousers will be in vogue at the Netherhall School, Cambridge, this autumn -
and it will not be just boys who are wearing them. Netherhall Girls' School will be
the first in the area to introduce trouser suits as part of the official uniform.
The trouser suit - a French navy crimpeline sleeveless jerkin and trousers - will
be worn with a white turtle-neck sweater or a blue-and-white check blouse.
Yesterday 14-year-old Linda Shaw modelled the suit, which 11-year-old girls joining
the school will be invited to buy. The only objection raised by the girls seems to
have been that the trousers are not flared enough

1948
The assurance that the days of sweated labour in the mining industry were over, and
that what is now needed are young men to work the highly complicated new machinery
in the pits was given by the National Coal Board which is touring the country on a
recruitment and training drive. On Tuesday at the Cambridge Market Hill they
screened two films from a mobile van, one of them being a progress parade and the
other about miners at work in the pits. They are visiting several schools in
Cambridge and the surrounding villages

1923
Cambridge was visited last night with one of the sharpest thunderstorms that has
passed over the town for several years past. The roll and rumble of the thunder at
times was almost continuous. Sometimes it almost resembled that of a bombardment,
at others a rattling volley of musketry. Once or twice there was a blinding flash,
followed almost instantaneously by a short, sharp, stunning clap of thunder. There
were periods of intense electrical activity, a sort of "mad minute", during which
rapid flashes and crashes came and went in a wild hurly-burly of light and sound.

1898
At the Standing joint committee Mr H.G. Fordham proposed that the appointment of
Parish Constables should be discontinued. In 1873 the Cambridgeshire quarter
sessions had decided to continue them. That was 28 years ago and he contended that
since then they had been rendered unnecessary. There was a considerable amount of
friction and expense and they were of no real use except in rare instance. Six
parishes in Cambridgeshire made no appointment. In Balsham the parish constable had
not done duty for 15 years, and in Weston Colville no duty had been done for 40
years. In seventeen parishes there was no remuneration at all. In others the
expenses varied from £10 downwards. The Chief Constable having said a good word for
the parish constables expressed a hope that their appointment would be renewed

FRIDAY
10th July
1973
The scheme to widen the notorious A604 Cambridge to Huntingdon road could be axed
as a result of the big cutback in Government road spending announced a few weeks
ago. The A604 is one of the few roads in the area with long stretches of three-lane
single carriageway and has been described by the Chief Constable as the worst road
in East Anglia. It is also one of the busiest with much of the East coast port
traffic and there have been improvement plans n the pipeline for several years.
Under present proposals the road would be turned into a full six-lane highway
between Girton and Godmanchester

1948
Some of the first fruits of the work of the recently established German
Universities Commission set up in Cambridge to foster relations between Cambridge
and German universities are now being enjoyed by 50 German students most of whom
are attending Long Vacation courses. This is also part of an interchange of
students, in which a number of English undergraduates are to attend courses in
Germany. The German men visitors are being accommodated in college while the women
are enjoying the hospitality of private houses. The committee is anxious that most
of the time should be spent in intermingling with English students and exchanging
ideas. Cambridge is also to provide courses for 250 students from European
countries who are to take part in a course on contemporary England, its literature
and institutions

1923
Sir - I wonder has it ever occurred to the Chancellor of the Exchequer what an
excellent Revenue would be produced by the taxation of gramophones. At least to
anyone living in the hutments of the old First Eastern General Hospital a
prohibitive tax would indeed be a boon. If a graduated tax, according to the noise
of the said instruments were introduced, I know of several people who live near me
to would find it necessary to pay out so much that they would have nothing each
week to purchase new needles. Yours etc - Music Lover

1898
A labourer from Stansted was charged with stealing 2 1/2 pounds of tomatoes,
valued 1s. 6d. the property of Edmund Rochford of Birchanger. William Winter,
foreman at the nurseries, said that as the defendant was going to dinner he stopped
him told him that he wanted to look into his basket. Defendant then took out his
dinner cloth, and he saw 9 tomatoes. Defendant urged that he took them home because
he could not eat them on the premises as the other men did. He was fined £1.0.0
LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
13TH July

1973
The possible reopening of the St Ives - Cambridge passenger rail service is a very
real priority, said Mr Robert Gemell, the Chief Passenger Manager of British Rail.
He gave an assurance that he was doing all he could to get the line reopened. But
the future was really in the hands of local councils and the people living in the
area to make their demands for this service heard in the right places, he said. The
final decision was with the Government on the advice of British Rail. The recent
estimated cost of re-opening the service was £100,000 but British Rail were trying
to see if this could be reduced

1948
Sir - Last week the last German Prisoners of War left this district on their
journey home. During their stay in local camps they have received many kindnesses
from corporate bodies, religious groups and men and women in this town. This has
been deeply appreciated by the men, and as a former welfare visitor to the camps. I
should like to help those who have helped in any way both before and after the
fraternisation restrictions were lifted eighteen months ago - Mervyn Parry, Society
of Friends, Jesus Lane

1923
Mr Cutlack told Ely council that he was of the opinion that the best and most
economical course to take in the event of a smallpox outbreak would be to erect a
marquee or tents in an outlying area for patients. In the wintertime provision
could be made for heating the tents. Mr J C Laxton said in weather like they were
then experiencing he could not agree. It would mean frying the patients and getting
them ready for somewhere else. (Laughter)

1898
Messrs Green, Moyes and Wisbey attended the Lion Hotel, Cambridge, and offered by
auction several beerhouses. The Lion and Lamb at Denver sold for £765. The Queen's
Head at Hilgay realised £510. Lot three was the freehold beer house known as the
Volunteer, Mildenhall which, together with a cottage, realised £710. The Swan
beerhouse Isleham realised £460. The last lot was the fully licensed freehold
public house in East Road, Cambridge known by the sign of the Red Lion. The bidding
started at £600, and ultimately reached £975 at which figure it was disposed of.
The prices realised are considered very satisfactory by the vendors.
TUESDAY
14th July
1973

It may be the end of the year before the Government finally makes a decision on the
already long-delayed plans for St Neots town centre, the MP for Huntingdonshire,
Sir David Renton has warned. The delay may last six months until the Government
have earmarked which road is to be used as the main Midlands to East Coast ports
traffic artery. Planning in St Neots town centre has been virtually paralysed since
1971 when a public inquiry was held into objections to the proposed town map

1948
The starting of a home help scheme in the county, similar to that already in
operation in Cambridge, will be an innovation welcomed by many village mothers with
new born babies and any sick people who can produce a doctor's certificate showing
the necessity for them to have someone to help in the house while they are unable
to do much work themselves.
women between 25 and 55 who
simply asked to perform the
provisionally agreed to pay
maintenance will be paid
This comparatively new social service is open to all
will not have to take on the duties of a "char" but
functions of any ordinary housewife. It has been
1s.9d. an hour and when necessary bus fares and cycle

1923
A most successful function in every way was the first annual dinner of the Ely City
military band. The Chairman said that for years before the formation of the City
Band, the only band they had was the Cambridgeshire militia band. Of course there
was the Volunteer band but that, unfortunately broke up. Thus it was greatly to the
advantage of the town that they had been able to form such an excellent band in Ely
as they had now. That was a thing that every citizen in Ely could congratulate
himself on.

1898
Yesterday was the 25th anniversary of the first farm factory in England and to
celebrate the occasion a large party of London and Provincial pressmen visited
Histon and spent a day in the Chivers factory and fields. We travelled along the
Histon Road, with the factory chimney steaming away in the distance yonder, and
fruit, interminable lines of it, growing in the fields on both sides. To the right
a group of busy pickers could be seen among the strawberries, smiling and happy. We
rode past the neat compact cottages of the firm's workpeople, past the factory
itself, on through the shady roads, past Impington Church - seeing here and there
an old thatched cottage, a striking object lesson when compared with the more
modern dwellings for the people erected since the firm began, till we week reached
the birthplace of the idea, the barn in which the initial efforts of the firm were
made.

WEDNESDAY
14th July

1973

Mr Geoffrey Datson, Deputy Clerk of Cambridgeshire & Isle of Ely County Council,
has been appointed Chief Executive of the new Cambridge District Council. Yesterday
Mr Datson said he was "very pleased" about his new job. "The interchange of staff
between the county council and the city augers well for the future" he said. It may
be some time before Mr Datson knows his exact salary. The committee wants to pay
him at the top end of the nationally agreed scale for chief executives. This scale
goes up to £8,300 a year

1948
The River Cam Conservators considered a request from the Eastern Electricity Board
to run cables under the river from Magdalene college to Thompson's Lane. The Board
propose to cover the cables with bags of cement in order to protect them from punt
poles. Mr Burrows informed the meeting that dredging of the river was proceeding
most satisfactorily. Following the meeting the Conservators set off for Bottisham
Locks on board the "Viscountess Bury", but had barely left Jesus Lock when it
became stuck in a sandbank

1923
To be quite topical, or rather tropical, I suppose I ought to say something about
the heat. I think a precedent must have been broken this week in the Combination
Room at St John's College. The Harvard and Yale Athletic team who are to oppose
Oxford and Cambridge at Wembley were entertained to dinner and after the toasts the
chairman, Dr Salisbury Woods, said: "Gentlemen, precedent was broken down last
night in the House of Commons, when Members of Parliament removed their coats and
waistcoats. I think the example was an excellent one, and propose that we also
should remove our coats and waistcoats." Carried unanimously!

1898
A representative of the press paid a visit to Hemingford Abbots, for the purpose of
gathering information from one of the village maidens who had been suffering from
what had been described as an incurable complaint. The young person to be
interviewed was Miss Lizzie Watson. Rapping at the cottage door the reporter was
confronted by a tall young damsel with a fresh coloured complexion - the object of
his search. She said she had been ill for many months, suffering fearful pains in
her body She had been treated by two medical men but obtained no relief. "I am all
right now," she added smiling. “To what do you tribute your recovery?" asked the
interviewer. "Dr Williams Pink Pills for Pale People, and nothing else," was the
reply

THURSDAY
15th July

1973
Nine days after a leaking drum of ethyl acrylate caused a scare in Cambridge, a
five gallon drum of poisonous chemical was found in a field at Sutton - and it took
officials six hours to move it to a safe place. It was sitting 10 feet from the
main A142 road. The police had no responsibility to move the can. Neither had the
fire service. It was finally removed in a local contractor's Morris 1000 pick-up
truck and locked away in an isolated hut at Witcham sewage works. (The can, which
was labelled "ethyl acetate”, was later found to contain pond water)

1948
The River Great Ouse Catchment Board decided that the section of cut-off channel
between the Rivers Lark and Kennett be omitted from the Flood Protection Scheme. It
had been pointed out that the section of channel between the rivers was small, but
that the fall was considerable - about 60 feet - so that in order to get the water
down to the Lark at a reasonable speed it would be necessary to put in a series of
check weirs all the way along, numbering no fewer than eight. The cost involved
would be £50,000

1923
The annual meeting of the Royal Eastern Counties Institution for the Mentally
Defective, Colchester, was held at the Memorial hall Newmarket. The chairman said
they had six patients in the institution from Newmarket and the neighbourhood, and
these cases were costing to maintain about £150 more every year than was received
in subscriptions from Newmarket and district. One had been in since 1902, another
since 1905 and another since 1914. Mr Cole said they should bear in mind that
Newmarket was only a small town, although some people called it a gold mine, and if
they compared it with some of the other towns they would see that Newmarket
subscriptions were very creditable. Ely they looked upon as a sort of heaven but
the good people of Ely only gave £70, while the bad town of Newmarket gave twice as
much.

1898
Notices were posted in Sawston calling a meeting of the cyclists for the object of
forming a bicycle club, but we understand that on the leading spirit of the affair
presenting himself at the appointed time and place, only a number of empty chairs
and forms met the gaze of him and his friend, and they shortly left the room in
disgust at the indifference shown by the Sawston cyclists.

FRIDAY
16th July
1973
A "stress centre" may be set up in Cambridge for student nurses under pressure in
their professional and personal lives. This is because stress is causing many of
them to give up their careers while still in training. For a number of reasons such
a centre could not be established for some time, but in the meantime doctor are
thinking about carrying out a psychological assessment of those nurses who want to
give up their jobs, and appointing a full-time counsellor to give advice to
hospital staff generally. It is thought that as many as 15% of those leaving could
be suffering, unknowingly, from some form of psychiatric illness

1948
When a delegate of a newly affiliated Trades Union branch asked, at a meeting of
the Cambridge Trades Council and Labour Party, that his branch should not be called
to join in any possible strike, his request was greeted with applause. He was the
delegate of Cambridge Branch of the Fire Brigades Union, newly accepted as an
industrially affiliated branch. "Fire is no respecter of persons", he said, "and my
branch feels that if there was a threat of strike action anywhere we must make it a
condition of affiliation that we are not asked to take part in anything like that.
(Applause). We feel it would be criminal if we ever went on strike"

1923
The question of the harvest bonus was discussed by the Essex County Farmers Union.
The committee recommends the round sum of £4 to be paid to see the harvest in, or
alternatively 8d per hour. The number of hours to be worked a day to be eleven, and
where it is customary to let the harvest by piecework these figures can be used as
a basis.

1898
Sir - I am not a native of Cambridge but have many times had impressed on me the
beauty of the town. What more could be desired, I thought, as I walked down the
streets and saw the beautiful clear cool streams running by the causeway. I spend a
lot of my time in Trumpington St. Lately, however, this beautiful street has been a
little "Sahara." Clouds of white dust are driving through the street all day,
sufficient to choke or blind an ordinary person. On going through the side streets
things are different, and the water-cart man is ever to be seen going on his weary
round. These streets are over-watered and sloppy. Now whatever can be the reason
for this? Yours etc “Dusty”

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY

20 July

1973

Ely last night won the fourth European heat of the television "Its a Knockout"
competition. The ancient cathedral city of Arnhem erupted with English roars and
cheers as they scraped home by just three points. The team and their 100 supporters
ran riot over the market place. The chairman of the urban council, Coun. Stanley
Cornwell, kissed every woman in sight. Later there were all-night parties for the
Ely invasion force. The team are now almost certain to go to the final in Paris

1948
Standing waste deep in the shaded waters of the River Lark in the Cambridgeshire
village of Isleham, a young Baptist minister yesterday performed a baptismal
service within five minutes walks of the exact spot where Charles Haddon Spurgeon,
most famous of all Baptist preachers, was baptised in 1850. Pastor A.G. Ashdown
addressed the congregation, took off his jacket and as the crowd took up the words
of the hymn "Happy Days" he waded into the deepest part of the river. The four
candidates, who had already confessed their faith, were then led into the river.
One by one they were completely immersed under the water

1923
Dr Albert Mansbridge, the founder of the Workers Educational Association, who
recently received an honorary degree from the University, attended a successful
Garden Party held in the Fellows Garden of Christ's College. He said Cambridge
University had been in the forefront of all recent movements for the education of
working people. Everyone could learn something, although they did not want all to
become scholars. Education was not a dry thing but led to a better and happier
life. The W.E.A. stood for education, which enabled people to live at their best.

1898
In the publication "Public Libraries," which is published in Chicago, is an article
with reference to Cambridge libraries. "At the free public library, visited on
Saturday evening, a changing crowd stood in line for nearly three hours, in spite
of the fact that they were waited on at the rate of one a minute. We found several
labour-saving devices and conveniences in this library, which seemed to be a little
ahead of the average Library we visited. One of the finest collections of
Shakespeariana in the country is in this building"

TUESDAY
21st July

1973
Girton Parish Council is to ask the county council to give urgent consideration to
drawing up a village plan in a bid to get effective control over large-scale
development. The prime concern is the preservation of the Old Rectory, in the heart
of the village, until parishioners can decide whether they wished to retain the
18th century building or not. Already 150 homes have been approved which takes
Girton to its 1981 population limit. Now it could mean a further large area of land
being released for development

1948
The wartime defences in the astern side of Cambridge are to go. The Cambridge Town
surveyor reported that the Ministry was now prepared to reimburse the reasonable
cost of the removal of the defence works and anti-tank ditch. The demolition of
certain pillboxes was being carried out by Messrs J. Stevens & co, who were engaged
in the removal of civil defence works in Cambridge

1923
The chairman of the Cambridge Allotment Association said a man could not put his
heart in to tilling of the ground when he knew he might get six months notice at
any time. In Vinery road there were about 50 people working a five-pole plot each.
That was hardly satisfactory. A man who had got four or five children wanted 20
poles; he did not want to lay it out simply with potatoes; he wanted a little
fruit, and if he knew he had a plot for 20 years or as long as he lived, he could
put in his fruit trees.

1898
Under present climatic conditions there are worse things in this life than camping
on the south Denes at Yarmouth, as every man in the Third Cambridgeshires will tell
you. The sunshine is extremely hot at times, it is true, but it is tempered by the
gentle breezes from the German Ocean, sweeping across from sea to river, and
soothing the bronze warriors on its way. Again, the drills are arduous and the
guard duty tedious, but all the time you are drinking in the pure air, and when the
work is over what jollier, more exhilarating spot can be found than dear old, amply
beached, rollicking, progressive Yarmouth, despite its numerous "rows"? In fact,
Cambridge folk are here, there and everywhere, in the town and district, and
surprised "Hello's" greet you at every turn. The men of Yarmouth keep toeing the
mark of up to dateness, and every year sees the historic town presenting some fresh
improvements to hold her in the forefront of watering places. There is the new
patent tower to be ascended for a birds-eye view of the district, and there are the
numerous other attractions common to every season

WEDNESDAY
22nd July
1973

There are 17 vacancies for every unemployed school leaver in Cambridgeshire, it was
disclosed yesterday. The principal careers advisory officer, Miss G. Miller, said
the jobs glut had highlighted last year's raising of the school leaving age. Most
of the vacancies were in shop and offices. Jobs were also plentiful in
manufacturing industry - chiefly unskilled labour. A spokesman for Pye, who employ
more than 6,000 workers in Cambridge, confirmed they were having difficulties in
recruiting school leavers

1948
A byelaw to enable action to be taken against those responsible for causing a
nuisance with loudspeakers has been agreed by the Watch committee of Cambridge Town
Council. The Mayor referred to the nuisance caused by loudspeaker and cinema vans.
They resolved that "Any person who by operating ... any wireless loudspeaker,
gramophone or other instrument in any street or public place ... to cause annoyance
... shall be guilty of an offence. Any person offending shall be liable to a fine
not exceeding £5"

1923
At Cambridgeshire County Council it was agreed that all roadmen be given holidays
on the four Bank Holidays in addition to Good Friday and Christmas Day. Councillor
Stubbs asked they also give them six days consecutive holidays - a privileged that
was granted to the remainder of their staff. He understood that the staff had a
fortnight or three weeks holiday with pay, and their police officers had holidays
with pay. Councillor Jackson said if they were given holidays, they would have to
be reappointed at less wages. They were agricultural labourers, and the greater
part of them were not skilled men. The council had no right to give them a holiday
out of their class. This resolution was defeated.

1898
The annual show of flowers, fruit, needlework, etc open to Shelford and the
neighbouring villages, was held yesterday in the grounds of Mr Carter Jonas'
residence at Great Shelford. The Cambridge University volunteer band played during
the afternoon and evening. During the latter part of the day the grounds became an
unusually lively scene, a large number of visitors coming in from Cambridge and the
villages in the vicinity. The attractions included a May-pole demonstration by the
children of Whittlesford be School, and all the usual paraphernalia of swings,
cocoa-nut shies, shooting galleries and steam horses.

THURSDAY
23rd July
1973
A Cambridge pensioner claims that old people are being forced to stay away from
their church on Sunday mornings because they are baffled by the Series Two Holy
Communion service. But now, claims Mr Richard Pettit, who has been going to St
Augustine's church, Cambridge, they are outraged by a plan to do away with Series
Two and bring in Series Three - a new version of the service in modern English.
"They are being forced to sit at home because they can't follow the services, and
it's a crying shame" he said

1948
An increase of £2 a week for all ranks of police are amongst suggestions put
forward to Cambridge Watch Committee. Present rates of pay are: Constable £5.5s.
rising to £6.12s. after 10 years. Policewomen constables £4.14s. rising to £5.17s.
Sergeants £6.15s. rising to £8.5s after 5 years. Present hours of duty are for
constables, sergeants and inspectors is eight hours a day for six days a week.
Regulations state that Chief Officers of Police and Superintendents are not
entitled to a weekly rest day and are on duty all day every day, except for 1 1/2
days per calendar month

1923
Sir - Carpet beating should not be permitted, even on a Common, close enough to
the surrounding houses or the public roads to be a nuisance to householders or the
passing public. Neither should householders themselves be allowed to beat carpets
in their back yards, unless they have a large space behind their houses, so that
the dust will not be swept by the wind into their neighbours' houses. It often
happens that as soon as one person has cleaned up their house, the next door
neighbour bring their carpets out and beat them, and the dust they get rid of is
blown back into their neighbour's clean house. It is a very dirty and dangerous
practice to beat carpets close to any house, and very annoying to say the least of
it. These nuisance appear to be on the increase and should be stopped - "Health"

1898
George Baynes, proprietor of the newly opened wax works exhibition in Petty Cury,
Cambridge, was summoned for carrying on his show without the permission of the
mayor. Dr Cooper (looking at the wax works programme): I see this is a regular
chamber of horrors Sergeant Baker said he had told the defendant he was liable to a
penalty of £20 and advised him to close the show. The defendant however said he did
not think it was necessary as he had a similar show eleven years ago without
permission. He kept the exhibition open till 10 o'clock and a large number of
persons visited it, the crowd causing great inconvenience in the street. The bench
inflicted a fine of 20s.

FRIDAY
24th July

1973
A commercial radio consortium backed by three of the largest firms in Cambridge are
asking other city organisations to join them in making plans for local
broadcasting. The group have the support of Cambridge Newspapers ltd, the Pye group
and Marshall of Cambridge. They represent the first major opposition to the
Cambridge Community Broadcasting Company - a consortium set up several years ago by
Mr Brian Jackson of the city-based Advisory Centre for Education. It may be almost
1980 before there is any chance of Cambridge getting a commercial station

1948
Radio is to be brought into place shortly to help Cambridgeshire fire fighters. Two
fire engines and four staff cars at the Newmarket Road Headquarters are to be
fitted with a V.H.F.-type speech transmitter and receiver, similar to those fitted
to R.A.F. planes. The fixed 12-watt transmitter will also be used by the police
force to originate their message operation. The two fire engines fitted with radio
are the ones normally sent out immediately on receipt of a fire call. "The
advantage of using radio is that we have no need to depend on telephone for getting
reinforcements," said Chief Officer Knowles

1923
There are new pleasures in store for workhouse inmates. Amazed and almost
disbelieving that the music and songs were being heard from "Lonnon" the inmates of
the Ely Union were given a wireless concert by Mr Charles Howes. Two receiving sets
were used, one to operate the loudspeaker, and the other to make the music audible
in the headphones. Two aerials were erected, one outside and the other slung across
the dining room where the concert was given. During the evening the London
broadcasting station mentioned Ely, and said they hoped the concert would be
received well at the Tower House, and that it would be enjoyed by those who were
listening in for the first time. That the hope was realised, goes without saying

1898
Ramsey fair which has been held on Thursday (a day earlier) Friday and Saturday,
has been about the same as usual. The chief attraction have been the gondolas and
cinematograph. Most of the stalls left for Warboys feast

LOOKING BACK

MONDAY
July 27th
1973

A massive vote of no confidence in Ted Heath's government gave the Liberals two
shock victories in by-elections today - and made Clement Freud the new M.P. for the
Isle of Ely. As the result was announced the 49-year-old journalist, broadcaster
and gourmet was hugged jubilantly by his wife and two of his children. Mrs Freud
said she had not really thought of her husband as an MP until last week when she
was canvassing for him in Ely. She said "I talked to people and I suddenly knew
that he was in"

1948
The "chaotic condition" of Cambridge traffic was explained by Ald W.J. Taylor at a
meeting of the County Council when he said: "They have tried to bring traffic into
the town for the sake of the business of the town. They never though to plan the
town properly and the widening of some of the streets has been the biggest mistake
there ever was. They talked about the ring road but took great care they never made
it so that motorists should come in and spend their money". Councillor Dennard said
the one-way traffic system, with streets used as car parks, had caused chaos

1923
Very few people entered the magnificent new arena at Wembley expecting to see
Oxford and at Cambridge win against the American athletics team. I bow to no one in
admiration of the wonderful athletic ability of Harold Abrahams, but I thought that
he was a trifle stale. Even on the day he did not look fit enough, and he must have
used up a lot of his reserves of energy. He has, however, what we call the Varsity
temperament, and the occasion brings out the best that is in him. As a matter of
fact, he won all of his events with the greatest ease, and I can truthfully say
that I have never seen him run better.

1898
A meeting in connection with the proposed Cambridge Ice and Cold Storage company
was held at the University Arms Hotel. A central site had been secured at Petty
Cury and they had customers both for ice and cold storage. The two biggest firms in
Cambridge had agreed to have cold storage, beside many other gentlemen, and they
would have orders for eleven hundred tons of ice for the first weeks working. Some
hundreds of shares were taken up before the meeting ended.

TUESDAY
July 28th
1973
There was more than a sense of achievement in the air at the official opening of
Hemingford sewage works. More than 80 guests had first hand experience of that
certain something that distinguishes a sewage station from any other kind of plant
- because the wind was blowing in the wrong direction. In his opening speech the
chairman of St Ives Council Health Committee said "I must apologise for the lack of
control of air pollution, but I understand it was not possible to have air
fresheners for everyone so you will have to put up with it"

1948
The experiment of a socialist village was advocated by Cambs MP, A.E. Stubbs, in
the House of Commons. "If I had my way I would take land and put it down to small
holdings, properly equipped with buildings and so on. With the present shortage of
labour the farmers can never get the manpower to farm it properly, but the land
could be properly dealt with on the basis of a socialist village equipped a school
and modern amenities. The roads which have been built by the Ministry of
Agriculture in the fens are all falling to pieces. It is about time something was
done, once and for all, to give the agricultural producers a square deal. He ought
not to have to sell lettuces at 1d each and find them selling in the shops for a
"bob" each"

1923
The offer of the London and North Eastern Railway Company in connection with the
acquisition of the site of the old Newmarket railway line for the purpose of
linking up Cherry Hinton road with Mill road, Cambridge, led to a good deal of
discussion at the town council. For many years they had tried to get the company to
come to terms, so that they could join the Rock Estate with Romsey town. The line
was the key of the situation, and there were great possibilities of development on
that side of the town. Mill Road too was strangled at present. Councillor Ambrose
hoped the negotiations would be conditional on some promise of a bridge or railway
for the people to get to the station from the Rock estate

1898
In response to a handbill headed "Our river," and appealing for a Cromwell to
redress the grievances of St Ivians in respect to the river, a very large crowd
assembled on Market Hill. Time went on, and no sign of any leader was forthcoming.
Cromwell was apparently hard to find and people began to think the whole scene was
going to end in a fiasco. Then a big shout heralded the approach of Mr Radford's
furniture van and when Mr E R Odams was seen getting into the van another shout of
rejoicing went up and his appearance was greeted with vociferous applause.

WEDNESDAY
July 29th
1973
As 9,500 folk music fans slowly drifted away from Cambridge's ninth and largest
weekend Folk Festival, the mammoth task of clearing the site at Cherry Hinton Hall
began. Damp weather also took its toll of the ground as thousands tramped over the
grass. Hundreds had to be turned away as the allocation of tickets was sold out.
Festival director, Ken Woollard, said, "It has become a family affair now with
whole families and their children coming. If it were much larger it would lose the
character and atmosphere"

1948
Public representatives, including members of the Cambridge University and Town
Waterworks Company attended the annual inspection of the water works. The first
place of call was the Fleam Dyke Pumping Station where they saw the massive
machinery which is responsible for extracting water from a well in the ground. This
is the main source of supply for 110,000 people. The daily consumption is 3½
million gallons and if it were necessary to bring water into Cambridge by hauling
it it would take 23,000 150-gallon horse drawn water tanks stretching in an
unending procession of 130 miles to bring it into Cambridge each day. Since 1920,
when the pumps were first taken into use they had pumped 31,000 million gallons
which is enough to flood the whole of the Borough of Cambridge to a depth of 12 ft

1923
Soon after seven o'clock on Sunday evening passers-by in the vicinity of Newmarket
Road were somewhat surprised by the appearance of a saloon car carrying a wildness
outfit. The aerial was comparatively large, and was suspended from two poles at
either end of the roof. The sight was sufficiently rare to cause much curiosity and
comment. A number of new inventions have been referred to in our wireless articles
and it is easy to foresee that in a few years, far from being a novelty, no car
will be complete without its wireless installation

1898
Newmarket rural council was told that the water supply of Swaffham Prior was was
derived from springs, and was abundant and naturally pure. All that was necessary
was to see that it was properly safeguarded. Some of the existing wells were so
circumstanced that they ran the risk of contamination. Four bored wells would be
sufficient for the village and one more for the hamlet of Reach. Only one outbreak
of diphtheria had occurred in the village, in 1894, when four cases occurred in one
house, but analysis of the water supply showed that it was pure and fit for
drinking purposes

THURSDAY
July 30th
A whole lotta shakin' was going on at the King's Head, Fen Ditton, last night. The
event was the Cambridge Area Jiving Championships and last night's champions were a
couple from the Newmarket Rock'n'Roll club - Vivienne Young and Tommy Gallagher.
Runners up were the Cambridge Club team of Frances Booker, of Sutton, and Vic Kaval
of St Ives. Jim Brady of Bedford was voted the best dressed "Ted". The event was
staged by the Cambridge Rock'n'Roll club which started a year ago and has 400
members. The chairman, Frank Humm, said, "I think there is definitely a big revival
on the go - but interest in rock'n'roll music has never really died"

1948
D.E.Knapman, telephone manager of the Cambridge area told Rotarians that there were
4,000 people in the area waiting for telephones. He said there are two separate
wires running from the exchange right back to your house which are yours and only
yours. It would be impossible to run out a separate pair of wires every time
somebody asked for a telephone. They try and forecast 30 years ahead the number of
subscribers they will get and then lay cable under the ground. In Sidney Street are
seven or eight thousand wires serving Chesterton and the Milton Road districts

1923
Cambridge men and women of all shades of political opinion, and a number of
children, associated themselves with the world-wide demonstrations that were held
to express the determination that there shall be no more war. The Cambridge
demonstration took place on Parker's Piece on Sunday afternoon. Prior to this a
procession marched to the war memorial. It was headed by the Salvation Army band.
The Cambridge town branch of the League of Nations Union was the first of the
representative bodies, with three large appropriate banners bearing the words "No
more war." The Cherry Hinton band also took part, and in the rear of the procession
came a pathetic little band of "hunger marchers" from Sheffield with their own
banner

1898
Considerable diversion was created at the Newmarket Conservative Club by the
appearance of a monkey in the billiard room, the animal having wandered from a
circus staying in the town. The members at once suitably greeted the newcomer, one
gentleman facetiously enquiring who proposed the newcomer as a member. A keeper
arrived a minute later and bore away the Tory ape in his arms. Mr McCalmont's seat
in the House does not yet need such supporters

FRIDAY
July 31st

1973
Mr Bob Scrutton of The Royal Oak, Commercial End, Swaffham Bulbeck, doesn't look at
a pint of beer when he serves it - because he concentrates on the weight of the
glass and the sound the beer makes. For 49-year-old Bob has been blind for the past
eight years. It is 10 years since he moved into the pub. He recognises the money
his customers hand him by its feel and knows his regulars by their footsteps. He
often runs the pub on his own and feels confident of keeping order. New customers
don't realise that he is blind and refuse to believe it when they are told

1948
Anglers fear a move to suppress their sport. At the moment there is a proposed bill
to abolish hunting and coursing, and if this is carried out it is felt that
shooting and then fishing will next be tackled. Sporting organisations likely to be
affected are fully alive to the threat and at the meeting of the Cambs and Isle of
Ely Federation of Anglers support was given to the British Field Sports Society,
which is to consider courses of action in opposing the bill

1923
Sir - for generations Hobson's Conduit has been well cared for. For 30 years or
more an industrious and expert custodian gave the conduit daily, almost hourly,
attention, keeping it clean and trimming the banks. In an unhappy moment the stream
fell into the hands of the Corporation and has been allowed to fall in to neglect,
its banks are untrimmed and dishevelled, and the stream is choked with dirt and
weeds. Every now and then - at long intervals - three or four men attack the weeds,
drag loads of them on the banks and leave them to fester in the sun. The raid is
useless; in a week or two the state is worse than before. Among the unemployed
surely there is some man fit and able for such work and the stream be kept clean
and tidy as in the past. - "Brookside"

1898
Some amusing scenes were witnessed at Dunmow, where about 10,000 visitors
assembled to hear the claims for the famous flitches put forward by Mr and Mrs
Frost of Sutton, Surrey and Mr & Mrs Herbert of Hounslow. Mr Herbert, who is by
occupation a dealer in antique furniture and curios, startled the presiding judge
by bidding him two sovereigns for the ancient chair in which he sate. This was
promptly refused, with some show of offended dignity, and Mrs Herbert must have
trembled for her chances of securing the flitch, thus prejudiced by her husband's
keen eye to business. However, the jury did not take a severe view of this flagrant
contempt of court and the judge himself heartily occurred in the view that the
claim had been made good. Both couples went home rejoicing, bearing their flitches
with them.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
3rd August

1973
Restoration work on the Victorian murals which cover every inch of the chancel at
Hildersham parish church has brought a startling change to the interior. They were
commissioned in 1880 by the parish priest. The restoration started in February and
took 10 weeks to accomplish including cleaning, repairing, regilding and
repainting. The dingy state of the murals was not an effect of modern pollution but
due to the fact that candles were used exclusively for the church lighting until
the 1920s

1948
Sir - Many letters have been written as to the filthy state of the River, but still
there are weeds, dead cats, dead fowl and every other sort of refuse floating on
the surface, including the oily substance that continually oozes from the gas
works. It you stir the mud oil rises to the surface. Fish caught the other day
stink of the oil. Isn't it possible to filter this before it gets to the river?
Further there is a children's playground at the entrance to Stourbridge Common. On
Monday it was occupied by nearly 50 cows and heifers. Tuesday by five horses. This
is no exception - "Vigilant"

1923
Harvest work in the Eastern Counties is menaced by a serious dispute between the
National Union of Agriculture Workers and the Farmers Union on the question of the
wages bonus. Trouble began in Norfolk, where the workers refused to accept a
reduction of the harvest bonus from £10 to £8 10s. Disaffection extended to Suffolk
and Essex, the Suffolk men declining any bonus less than £6 and the Essex side £5
5s. or a rate of 10d an hour

1898
A meeting at the Prince of Wales hotel requested the Cambridge council to consider
providing a cycle and athletics track for Cambridge. Grounds in the town were
becoming more and more limited. The University Ground itself was only saved by the
merest chance from going into the hands of the builders; the university bicycling
track was now disappearing for the very same reason. They were practically arriving
at the time when there would be no grounds available for the purpose of sport, at
least not enough to meet the growing needs of Cambridge.

TUESDAY
4th August
1973
The story of an old church and a redundant pulpit will unfold its final chapter at
Shepreth parish church on Sunday. Two years ago the Vicar visited Hignam Rectory
near Gloucester where he noticed a Caroline pulpit standing in the hall. It came
from the redundant church of nearby Lassington and they didn't know what to do with
it. Mr Breay suggested they give it to Shepreth church and it was eventually
agreed. The expense of restoring and installing it was borne by Mr Percy Austin of
Harston in memory of his wife. The pulpit and its delicate carving has been
expertly restored by Cecil Adams, a local man
1948
Mademoiselle Malandain died at her home, "La Roche", Panton street, Cambridge. She
had been seriously ill since January when to the great regret of many pupils and
friends of the Perse Girls' School "La Roche" had to be closed to boarders.
Mademoiselle first came in 1906 to supervise the education of the family of the
late Dr Griffiths. Her lively methods of teaching soon attracted other pupils and
she set up in company with Mdlee Barthee a small house in Panton Street.
Recognising her abilities Miss Kennett with great wisdom invited her to join the
teaching staff of the Perse Girls school in about 1916 where she worked with great
vigour and liveliness until late in 1947. Meanwhile she was teaching at Kings Choir
School and running a school boarding house for Perse girls

1923
Many people wonder why the New Theatre lies fallow for so long during the summer,
but theatres get dirty during their year of work, and are badly in need of a spring
clean at least once a year. This year it has had something rather more in the
nature of a complete transformation. As one enters the vestibule one is immediately
struck by the sense of newness. It makes the approaches to the auditorium the
cleanest and prettiest that I have seen in a provincial theatre. The stage itself
has new boarding and several new sets

1898
At Chesterton Council a letter was read claiming £3 3s for damage done to a
gentleman’s laundry by the hose being directed by the Fire Brigade through his
window during a drill. The Captain explained it was a pure accident and the damage
was trivial - 4 blouses were wetted at a cost of 6d each for rewashing. While the
drill was proceeding a boy for his own amusement lifted the jet, and the water was
immediately turned off by the man in charge. Mr Bester said that when they had a
body of men giving their services gratuitously to the public the inhabitants should
exert some leniency in regard to accidents

WEDNESDAY
5th August

1973
A grand piano which takes several men to lift, was the centre of an attack at
Haverhill's Town Hall by the town's Centurians Theatre Group. The group claims they
were told by the council that workmen would move it "for a small charge” but it
was not done. "A dress rehearsal went on with a grand piano blocking half the
stage. The piano was still there on the first night so shoulders to the wheel the
actors removed it". Then came the account, together with a bill for its removal.
The Council treasurer said the hall is a multi-purpose building. "If it doesn't
exactly suit the Centurions they can hardly expect us to transform it for their own
particular activity"

1948
"The vehicle was an absolute wreck and totally unsafe to use on the road" said
Sergt Holden at Cambridge magistrates court. P.C. Tuck said the two rear tyres were
defective, there were six spokes missing from the rear nearside wheel, the bodywork
was falling to pieces, and with the handbrake fully applied the car could be pushed
along the highway. The driver's seat was not attached to the floor, there was no
hood, the steering was defective, and the car had no mirror. Defendant, a medical
student, was fine a total of £4

1923
In Norfolk a large number of cottages have for centuries been built of clay lump -
that is, sun-dried bricks. They are warm in winter and cool in summer, and they are
perfectly dry and everlasting. Recently a bungalow of clay lump was built in
Cambridgeshire for £720. The clay lump bricks are made by first laying on the
ground three or four inches of Barley straw, then covering these with three or four
inches of clay, dug close by, and pouring plenty of water over all. Then the whole
is trodden into a paste by a horse which walks backwards and forwards, and round
and round till all is well mixed. Wooden moulds are then filled with the mixture
and smoothed over.

1898
The new Reading Room at Hemingford Grey was opened and the outside of this
handsome little place was gaily decorated with flags. It is a well-built building.
Sir Arthur W Marshall spoke of the cheapness of books and newspapers, of the
starting of public libraries while even their villages had their public rooms and
bookshops. The Reverend D E Curtois spoke of the desirability of having a room
where the young could have the sociability of the public house without its
temptations.

THURSDAY
6th August

1973
Large housing estates on the Cambridge county boundaries may be built jointly in
the future by the new Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire district councils, under a
new plan outlined today. It suggests that the councils should get together and set
up a special body to hammer out their mutual housing difficulties. At the same time
this body could make strong demands on their own local councils and the new
Cambridgeshire county council to earmark more land for housing. These efforts would
go hand in hand with a concerted drive by commerce and industry to provide more
homes for their own workers - perhaps by converting existing buildings into flats
or other dwellings

1948
Six residents of Ditton Fields appeared before Cambridge magistrates charged with
stealing varying amounts of timber from 89 Maintenance Camp (Squatter's Camp),
Newmarket Road, the property of H.M. Government. Mr Harry Crowe, a civil engineer,
said the sides of a number of timber huts had been stripped of all timber. One of
the defendants said, "I have seen other people going up to the site, taking away
timber, and not getting into trouble for it, so I thought it would be all right".
Another said he was walking across the site of the Newmarket Road camp when two
Irishmen working there stopped him and asked if he wanted to buy some timber.
After he had paid £3 the man in charge took the timber from the huts which he
understood had to be pulled down

1923
A driver for the Taxi Side-car company was summoned for driving a motor cycle
taxi cab in a dangerous manner in Castle Street, Cambridge. Walter Langford,
labourer, spoke to seeing a taxi side-car coming down Castle Hill. At the crossing
it dodged in front of a motor car, and the side-car caught the front of the motor
car which struck the side of Messrs Clark’s shop in Northampton Street. The motor
car hit a man and knocked him down.

1898
At the Cambridge Free library committee meeting an offer was made by Mr W.H.
Hattersley to present an oil painting of Mr John Pink, who has been the librarian
ever since the commencement of that other institution in 1855. It was agreed to
make the necessary arrangements for placing the portrait in the Reading Room. It is
painted by Mr P Hall, master of the School of Art

FRIDAY
7th August
1973
Shopping and traffic surveys are being prepared to support West Suffolk county
council's oppositions to plans to build huge supermarkets in Kentford, near
Newmarket and Saxham near Bury. Two firms have applied to build a hypermarket at
Kentford, the latest outlines a 60,000 sq foot supermarket with parking for 400
cars. Despite outraged opposition from villagers Mildenhall rural council are
supporting this plan. Their clerk said: "They feel these things are coming so we
may as well have the rateable value as anybody else. It's a practical way of
looking at it"

1948
A Cambridge firm is to help the air-lift to Berlin. Messrs Marshalls are to service
some of the RAF Dakotas taking part in the lift. Marshalls did a big job servicing
RAF planes in the war and have more recently worked on Mosquitoes. This however
will be the first time the planned maintenance system has been operated by the
firm, though a similar system is in use in their vehicle repair shop

1923
Sir - I would like to make a suggesting regarding the new traffic arrangements at
the junction of the Newmarket Road, Jesus Lane, and the three other tributary
traffic arteries at that point. It seems to me such a pity to rob our dear old town
of Cambridge of a cherished sign manual viz. "The Four Lamps," a titular
description of a point in the town becoming ever more known and used, which is
spoken of by old Cantabrigians wherever they meet the world over. I always
regretted the removal of the old four-armed lamp, ugly as it was. – Ex-councillor

1898
At Cambridge court Detective sergeant Marsh told how he spent yesterday morning
out in rain at Longstanton digging for gold. With a faithful allegiance to mystery
and lucre the leisured classes of King Street and its bye-ways mustered to hear the
recital of the experiences in the penny Klondike. The detective told how he
searched for money in the garden of the prisoner’s grandmother for an hour or so.
At last he struck the money with the fork. Some was in matchbox, some in a
cigarette case, and the gold in a purse

LOOKING BACK

MONDAY
10th August

1973
There are more homes on the market in Mid-Anglia today that there ever have been
before. They are changing hands more slowly than they have done for several years.
There is less money around, in real terms, to buy them with. Yet their prices
remain largely constant. That is the paradox of housing in and around Cambridge in
August 1973. But it was only a year ago homes were being snapped up as quickly as
an owner hinted he wanted to sell. For many they had watched the value of their
house double in less than a year. Today to shift a house in under three months is
good selling; to have it on one's hands for six months is not uncommon

1948
The five Cambridge laundries which handle the college washing when the men are up
must be having something of a respite just now. During term they handle something
like 150,000 pieces every week. Stiff shirts and white waistcoats are also a
feature of the college wash - especially during May Week when hundreds have to be
dealt with. The limited wardrobes of present day students due to rationing, calling
for a quick return of the work, is another problem with which these laundries have
to deal. Before commercial laundries came into being the students' washing was
usually done at home by the bedmakers. Each would undertake to wash for 20 to 30
men, and collect the bundles in a handcart. Village carriers too used to come in to
collect washing which was undertaken by cottage women in nearby country areas

1923
Sir - 10 years ago the game of bowls was a hardly known in Cambridge but the late
Mr Basil Whibley worked very hard to bring before the Council a scheme for
permission to lay out greens on Christs Pieces and Alexandra Gardens, and to build
pavilions. There now appears to be a lack of real sporting spirit. At present
novices are simply not wanted, and are very pointedly made to feel it by old
stagers, but they will not last for ever and new blood will be missing. - "An ex
President of bowls clubs"

1898
Cyclists, pedestrians, lovers of the free and open road, dwellers in and around
Horningsea and Waterbeach, all interested in this district, harken. There is yet
hope for you that the last relic of antiquated obstruction - the obnoxious toll at
Clayhithe bridge - may be swept away. You have to pay every time you go over, and
people on the other side of the river are obliged to use the station for produce of
all sorts, and for every load that comes over they have to pay 4d. Many people
would make use of this road from Cambridge were it free, as the road is good, and a
convenient circle may be traversed round by the bridge and back this other way.

TUESDAY
11th August
1973
Cambridge is breaking all records this year for visitors. Business at the city
council's tourist information bureau has almost doubled and staff are working flat
out to cope with the demand for help and advice. The council's new hotel booking
service has been overwhelmed by visitors looking for rooms and late yesterday a
queue of tourists looking for accommodation had formed at the Guildhall bureau.
Miss Margaret Badcock, who is in charge of tourist information estimates that the
market square kiosk is handling up to 300 questions a day. She estimates that
business was up by between 80 and 90 per cent

1948
At Cambridge petty sessions a 19-year old soldier appeared on a charge of
possessing a "Walther" 6.35 automatic pistol at the time of attempting to steal
cash from a weighing machine. PC Bass said he was in Fitzroy street and heard the
sound of coins being rattled. He saw two men bending over a slot weighing machine,
both ran off but he followed the defendant on his bicycle and eventually caught
him. Next day a small automatic pistol was found lying on a wall. Defendant said,
"I dumped it there after the policeman had arrested me and while he was ringing the
Police Station for a conveyance"

1923
Big efforts are to be made in Cambridge by the various trade unions to regain
those who have dropped out of their organisation and ceased to take an active part
in it, by the holding of what is called a "Back to the Unions" Campaign. It opened
with a series of open air meetings at which the advantages of a solid trade union
front for the worker were enunciated by union speakers. On Saturday evening a mass
meeting will be held on Parkers Piece

1898
Joseph Martin of Littleport told the Agricultural Committee on National Wheat
Stores that he was not in favour of a reserve. He said "It is most unremunerative,
growing wheat. I am of the opinion that if you could by any means guarantee a
better price for wheat there would be many more thousands of acres. I am in the fen
district. It is really a wheat growing country. But a good deal of the heavy land
has gone out of cultivation entirely and grass has taken the place of wheat”

WEDNESDAY
12th August

1973
Three young women in distress have put Cambridge public health inspectors in a
tight spot. They are victims of a mystery wind-borne attacker that makes holes in
their tights - but only on Monday mornings when the trio are walking to work.
"Little holes suddenly start appearing in our tights", said 20-year-old Sally
Chapman. “There are small black holes like burns around the holes. Jo gets holes
round her ankles. I get them round the knees and down. All sorts of places.” The
public health department has twice taken pairs of tights away for examination.

1948
Though many crops in Cambridgeshire have been badly laid by the rain, there has not
as yet been a big wastage in the county through the weather. E.R. Benson, secretary
of the National farmers' Union said, "The shortage of labour is a serious problem,
this is one the Minister of Agriculture must have been aware of when he knew that
prisoner of war labour was going. Owing to the sodden state of the ground binders
will be unable to cut unless they are of the kind which can be power-driven from
tractors. Sunshine is needed, not heavy winds, because stiff breezes will tend to
shell out the ripe corn"

1923
The 1st Battalion Cambridgeshire Regiment who returned from their fortnight's
training at Felixstowe have had a busy but very enjoyable time. The camping grounds
was close to the beach and the bathing facilities were much appreciated. The
weather was rather rough and rainy, especially Tuesday, when the tents were
frequently blown down, until the men got up to the dodge of anchoring them with
lumps of rubble. They watched a demonstration to illustrate some of the lessons
learnt in the late war, including infantry attack under cover of machine guns.

1898
Newmarket Road district council were told that at Cheveley a well which had been
cleaned out and deepened, now yielded as good a supply as water as could be found.
They should consider the desirability of employing an experienced well sinker who
could clean out and deepen many of the wells in the neighbouring parishes. A good
water supply might be obtained in that way without the expense of digging and
sinking artificial wells.

THURSDAY
13th August

1973
It is now one of the last places in Cambridge one would look for a blacksmith's
forge ... an old brick building standing behind a large, brand new house in Russell
Street. Most of the other buildings in the street have fallen to demolition.
Cambridge's last remaining blacksmith, is Chubb Webb. The family business, which
will be 100 years old next year, now shoes horses mainly for riding schools, but it
also has as much work as three men can handle in other directions - making springs
for vehicles, forging wrought iron for gates, widows and grilles and using brass
for window surrounds. One customer ordered a life-size cat cut out of steel. She
wanted it to go on top of a sign, to name her house

1948
Three hours and fifty minutes before their hero was due to make his first
appearance, four boys were waiting in eager anticipation outside the doors of the
Central Cinema this morning, determined to be first in the queue to see "Dick
Barton - special agent," the very first celluloid adventure of radio's famous
sleuth. At the head of the queue was 11-year-old Brian Butcher, John Carter (9) and
Lionel Shelford (8) joined a few minutes later. The other boy was 14 year-old John
Benton and soon others tagged on behind him, making a total, at 12.30, of about 25
Dick Barton fans

1923
Addenbrooke's Hospital court were told that the most important item was the
provision of an additional operating theatre. When installed the present one was
considered one of the best, but it had now become out of date. There had been a
steady increase in the number of operations. In time they would also like to see an
additional ward corresponding to the existing Tipperary ward. The wards were the
admiration of everyone, and they wanted the rest of the hospital to be brought up
to the same level

1898
At the general meeting of shareholders of the Cambridge Omnibus Company there was
no exuberant spirit of jubilation. In fact, the company seems to have fallen on bad
times. Trading for the year had resulted in a very considerable loss. In September
an unfortunate accident occurred to one of the company's vehicles, injuring several
persons more or less severely. They had the misfortune to lose by death nine
horses. One thing that had swelled the amount of loss was the state of the roads.
It must be patent to everyone that the rooms were very destructive to the wheels,
more particularly the main streets where there were tram lines.

FRIDAY
14th August

1973
Just how important is one product in the range of a group which has 40 companies
turning out a whole range of products? The answer for Pye - when it comes to colour
television - is very important. For continuing good sales of colour television is
one of the main reasons for the group's record sales and profits in the first six
months of this year. The chairman, Lord Thorneycroft forecasts continued high
sales: "I think the actual rush is over but with the Royal wedding coming along in
November and the World Cup series next year there is no knowing where it is going
to end". The sales of the group rose 29% to £84 million

1948
Crews for 21 clubs came from over a wide area to St Ives Regatta and, blessed with
fine weather, a very full programme was enjoyed by large crowds of spectators. A
wealth of river knowledge was available in the judges' barge by reason of the
presence of a veteran trio who have been attending St Ives Regatta ever since there
has been such an event. The combined years and experience of Dr W.R. Grove, ex-
alderman E. Kiddle and Ald F.M. Warren would be hard to outweigh

1923
Cambridge county court heard an action for damage to a private road at Caxton
Common farm. 5-600 sacks of Barley were moved by a traction engine and truck, the
engine weighing eight or ten tons and the truck some three tons. The result was
that the road was cut up so that it was impossible to use it for traffic of any
description. The ruts made by the engine were so deep that the wheels of the trucks
did not revolve and it slithered along on the axles. The road was not now usable
even for horse traffic.

1898
 The monthly meeting of Linton guardians was told that the number of inmates in
the workhouse during the past week was 60. The Local Government Board inspector
drew attention to the large amount expended for out-relief which was about 10 times
as much as the cost of in-maintenance. The Chairman said they found it difficult in
cases of old people, who never had a chance of saving, to drive them into the
workhouse, especially when the character of these deserving poor had been all their
lives exemplary. They were quite alive to the necessity of treating very
differently those cases where their wages had been spent in drink .

LOOKING BACK by Mike Petty

MONDAY
17 August

1973
As the temperatures soar the queues for ice cream get longer and longer but buying
ice cream nowadays is an expensive business and prices vary considerably from queue
to queue. This year ice cream should be cheaper because it is zero rated for VAT.
In fact some of the ice cream makers have knocked 1p of some makes. A 3p lolly last
year costs 2p in many places and a 6p choc bar last year can now be bought in some
places for 5p. But prices vary from place to place. A medium sized ice cream at a
shop in Arbury, Cambridge, costs 4p yet a similar one on Newmarket racecourse costs
exactly double

1948
It was a creditable achievement that there was scarcely a lull to allows the
crowd's attention to drift away from the racing at St Ives Regatta. Several of the
finishes were very close an in the final of the scratch-four a dead-heat was
awarded between crews stroked by R. Stocker (Huntingdon) and S. Gore (St Ives). The
race, rerowed was almost as close again. The Misses Bunty and Betty Robb, second
and third in the ladies race, received their prize from their mother, the Mayoress.

1923
A meeting was held on Cambridge market Hill under the auspices of the local branch
of the World's League Against Vivisection. Some hundreds gathered around the first
speaker who was heard amid a running series of questions and interruptions. He
gallantly held his post for over an hour, and many of his points were agreed to,
even by opponents of the movement generously. Certain diseases had been lowered
doing the last 50 years in response to sanitary improvements, he said, but no
direct evidence could be found as to any decrease of the death rate as a result of
vivisection.

1898
It maybe that the police have influence with the Clerk of the weather. Anyway the
sun beamed down full face on the righteous and the unrighteous, and incidentally on
those congregated at the Leys to witness the annual sports of the Borough Police.
And as evidence not only of the love of Cambridge folk for sport, but also of their
friendship for their blue-tuniced guardians, it may be mentioned that there was a
large attendance. Adding much to the enjoyment of the company, Madame Frederica
with her toy terriers, and Mr Fred Derrick the well known entertainer from Tudor’s
Circus, gave some clever exhibitions.

TUESDAY
18th August
1973
Mini "bombers" are terrorising tourists on the River Cam. Mr Bell of Scudamore's
boatyards, Mill Lane, Cambridge, said "A lot of people who cannot swim go out on
the river. It seems nothing is going to be done till somebody is seriously injured
or drowned". He said youngsters were playing "bombing" games, jumping in at the
iron bridge and diving boards near the swimming pool and landing as close to the
boats as possible. He understands that youngsters involved are in the seven to 11
age group

1948
Flying a proctor light aircraft Mrs Richarda Morrow-Tait of Cambridge set out from
Marshall's airport on her attempt to be the first woman to fly a light aircraft
round the world. She was accompanied by her navigator and co-pilot Mr Michael
Townsend of Cranmer Road, Cambridge. They carried only a minimum amount of baggage
but included in it was a .303 rifle and ammunition, as part of the flight will be
over uninhabited territory. Maps and baggage stowed away, including some sandwiches
cut for Mrs Morrow-Tait by her husband the two climbed into the aircraft. Her
husband said, "She is a wonderful person, full of courage and determination. The
machine is an ex-RAF aircraft which has been thoroughly overhauled and fitted with
a reconditioned engine.

1923
A small advertisement of a house to be let at a rent of £40 a year appeared early
this week. By the first post next morning there was a score of replies. The next
post bought another score, and letters have been pouring in ever since, until the
number must be over one hundred. This affords some idea of the number of people in
Cambridge who want houses and don't mind paying a fairly good rent for one.

1898
Sir - Waterbeach is the great health resort for Cantabs. What place can give such
fishing? What prettier lanes, abounding with orchards, all leading to the river. If
our parish council could be made to realise that they are living in 1898 AD and
would level the village green, and plant a few trees round it, give us a few oil
lamps at small cost, Waterbeach with its fine train service and river steamers
would become an attractive residential suburb - Waterbeacher

WEDNESDAY
19th August
1973
Only three boats took part in a demonstration cruise to drawn attention to the
Reach and Burwell lodes which were in danger of being closed and drained. But Great
Ouse River Authority had already agreed to spend £155,000 in preserving the
waterway. The lodes were constructed to drain the fens but the drainage has shrunk
the peat soil so that the waterways and their banks stand above the surrounding
land. Now the banks are wearing and leaking - flooding the land they were
constructed to drain

1948
Miss Morrow-Tait, 24-year-old flying mother, today abandoned her around-the-world
flight attempt. She left Marshall's airport yesterday but her plane was damaged in
landing at Marseilles last night. She told Reuter's correspondent, "I hit a small
ditch owing to bad visibility. The propeller was twisted, a wing damaged and the
undercarriage also suffered. Our plan for a round-the-world flight in 200 hours is
no longer realisable. I think I will probably go back to London and start again".
When a C.D.N. reporter told her husband of her accident he said, "I don't care
twopence about her abandoning the flight. I expect she will have another go"

1923
Mr James Tuck of Ely has been struck by lightning twice, once in 1914 and again on
Saturday. In 1914 he was putting hay into an elevator at Chettisham when there was
a vivid flash of lightning. The fork he was holding was torn from his hands. The
lightning scorched his face and left red marks on his arm of a zig-zag shape. When
he recovered doctors were astonished. On Saturday he was driving some pigs.
Suddenly there was a vivid flash of lightning and he was stuck to the ground in a
dazed condition. With the exception of still having a headache he is now little
worse for his experience.

1898
An NSPCC inspector described visiting the house of a weaver in Haverhill. The
floors were black with dirt, the bed consisted of two dirty mattresses swarming
with vermin and black with dirt. The air was foul smelling. The children fairly
nourished, but they were in a filthily dirty and ragged condition. Even their
clothes were verminous and their bodies were badly bitten with fleas and vermin.
The father was an idler at the corners of streets, and did what jobs he did. He
spent the money in drink and neglected the children

THURSDAY
20th August
1973
A group of doctors who set up a hard drugs clinic in Cambridge during the 1960s
believe they have now contained the spread of heroin addiction in the city. The
first full report on almost seven years work by the Containment Unit for Drug
Misuse has been produced by Dr Ross Mitchell, a Cambridge consultant psychiatrist.
The unit was established to deal with hard drug addiction and he is not sure
whether the same methods could be used to deal with the spread of "soft" drugs.
"The misuse of drugs like cannabis and LSD have a large personal, political and
ideological component. Our concern should be with young people at risk and we
should attempt to set up facilities which will recognise this risk and try to
provide continuing support", he said

1948
During the past fortnight something like 700 American airmen have landed at
Lakenheath where 31 giant silver Super-Fortress bombers now line the runways of
this big new R.A.F. station. Officially they are stated to be on a strictly
training mission, a mission with "no political significance". They are certainly
not living in the lap of luxury. They are eating R.A.F food but as one American
spokesman put it "there is a likelihood of our supplementing rations with our own
stuff before long". Oklahoma-born Major L.J. Avery summed up what the Americans
were thinking. "We have been here before, and it looks like we are here again for a
spell"

1923
The staff of the Cambridge division of the L. & N.E. railway gathered to show
their appreciation on the retirement of Mr Frederick Harradine after nearly half a
century. He entered the service in 1875 as a porter at Cambridge station and two
years later became a single line pilot on the old Newmarket line. In 1880 he went
to Shelford as a signalman and later transferred to Ely. Returning to Cambridge he
was made a divisional inspector. One of his duties was to be in attendance after
any serious mishap. He was the best known railwaymen in the division, if not on the
railway.

1898
An itinerant umbrella maker and scissor grinder was charged with stealing a half
crown from Kate Taylor, domestic servant to Mr William Cutlack, of Littleport. She
gave him a pair of scissors to grind for which he charged 2d. An umbrella was next
entrusted to his versatile art, in which he put a new handle and charged 1s.6d. The
lady had not less than half-a-crown and expected change but he walked off with the
money. As she was afraid of the man she told the groom, John Lambert. He found him
quietly enjoying himself at the Gilgal pub. Defendant pleaded guilty and was
sentenced to three weeks hard labour

FRIDAY
21st August
1973
Mid Anglia Police yesterday settled down to business in their lush new headquarters
complex at Hinchingbrook Park, near Huntingdon. Removal men are busy removing
stores from the old buildings at The Manor, Brampton. Removal vans laden with
police equipment will be on the road again next weekend. Huntingdon divisional
headquarters are to be moved from Ferrars Road, Huntingdon to The Manor. Work is
already going on building a new police station at Ferrars Road, Huntingdon for the
town's police

1948
In one of Cambridge's worst danger spots, the closely-packed buildings of Petty
Cury, the most serious fire the town has seen for two years broke out, damaging
half of the stock of Messrs Montagu Burton, tailors. Firemen prevented the fire
from spreading to adjoining shops but the whole of Burton's premises were gutted.
Next door is Hutton's tailors where suits, coats and other clothing was covered by
dust sheets to prevent damage from fumes. Burton's manager said "I went down in the
cellar and saw the gas meter on fire and it was just like a giant blow lamp. We
salvaged about half the stock". He added "I was flooded out at Jaywick a fortnight
ago, and now ..."

1923
The formal opening of the Soham water works took place yesterday. Mr Ransom said
that Soham could now boast of a pure water supply, which, in view of the fact that
less alcohol was consumed than in bygone years, was very necessary. Many would be
grateful for the water and he hoped there would be further applications from the
inhabitants, so that all would pay their share of the rates. The site of the water
works joins the main road to Fordham. Here has been erected a magnificent water
tower, substantially built in red brickwork, which constitutes a landmark for many
miles around.

1898
A correspondent writes: “Two miles from Five Miles from Anywhere, No Hurry, there
is a place called "Dimmock’s Cote" on the waterway to Ely, about two miles from
Upware, to which spot one of Messrs Bolton Bros. large furniture vans proceeded on
Saturday last. Arriving without accidents a very busy time was experienced in
rigging up accommodation for living and stores. It is very advisable for anyone
intending to camp by the river side to take a large filter, and even then to drink
as little water as possible. Fishing was very poor. The bullocks which are grazed
on the washes were attracted by the unusual lights and gave some little trouble,
but owing to a good watch dog, due notice of their visits was early given, so we
were always ready for the enemy”

LOOKING BACK

MONDAY
24th August

1973
At the Gardenia Middle Eastern Restaurant in Rose Crescent, Cambridge, I began with
Hoummous (25p), a thickish paste made with chick peas and oil which you scoop up
with pieces of unleavened bread. It was quite tasty though for the price not
particularly plentiful. It is not particularly elegant tackling by hand a four-
skewer kebab (60p) in an envelope of unleavened bread with bits of onion and tomato
spilling out. But the Gardenia does not pretend to be the place to take a grande
dame out to dinner with candles. The Kadeifi (15p) which followed looked on the
plate like a prandial imitation of Dougal, everyone’s favourite long-haired
television dog.

1948
Queen Mary took Cambridge by surprise today when she visited the town on one of her
private visits to Mr Stanley Woolston's antique store. At precisely noon the car
containing the Queen slid into the kerb outside the shop. It was not her own car,
however, but the Ely police patrol car. The green Daimler in which the Queen had
been travelling developed a slight defect at Lt Thetford and Her Majesty
transferred to the police patrol car following the Royal car. The Daimler, duly
repaired, was waiting outside Woolston's some little time before Her Majesty was
ready to leave.

1923
A Haverhill thatcher was convicted of using a two-wheeled carriage on Sunday
without having a licence authorising him to use the trap for pleasure. Defendant
said he was sometimes required to work seven days a week. He had gone to see Mr
Wright, a proprietor of roundabouts, at Kedington, the business being to arrange
for him to have a whelk stall at the shows at Clare, Stoke and Yeldham. He also
went to look at some cottages at Kedington, which a Mr Richardson had asked him to
thatch. He took a boy with him to look after the horse when he was out of the trap.
He was fined 15s.

1898
The quaintly named village in which Mr Frank Doggett resides (Rectory farm,
Cherryhinton) is within three miles of Cambridge railway station - in fact the farm
itself almost extends to the borough boundaries. But the House, partly covered with
ivy, might be any distance from haunts of men; and Cherryhinton is country pure and
simple. In the course of a long drive over his holding I saw many evidence of
careful and admirable farming; some promising crops of corn and roots, and a very
level flock of sheep. There is scarcely a corner of the land which he does not
cultivate, and the order which prevails in the well-arranged buildings is
characteristic of his farming. He lets seven cottages with the farm. In a place
like this the rents are high and it is very advisable to let the cottages at a
rental the men can pay. Most of his are let at two shillings a week. Ordinary men
are paid 13 shillings a week. At Cherryhinton they pay more money for regular work
than most villages. It is generally possible to obtain sufficient extra labour in
summer, but regular men are more difficult to secure.

TUESDAY
25th August

1973
Hotels in Cambridge are not facing the acute shortage of accommodation that they
did last year. At the Cambridge Tourist Bureau Mr John Franklin, a co-ordinating
assistant, said they were working flat out trying to fit people in at boarding
houses in the city. The average cost of bed and breakfast in a private house in
Cambridge is £2 a night, while the cost in a leading hotel is at least double that.
"What we badly need is something like a hostel where people can stay at £1 a head",
said Miss Margaret Badcock at the information bureau. "Most of the people who come
to us can't afford to stay at the hotels"

1948
The need for utilising Chesterton hospital for the elderly and infirm people of
Cambridgeshire and of housing casuals in some other part of the county was
discussed at a meeting of the Board of Governors of the United Cambridge Hospitals.
Dr R. Ellis said "There is a tremendous need, with the closing of infirmaries, to
know what to do with the people who were housed in such places. A great hardship is
being imposed on people who are old - they are literally living in houses in some
villages in semi-starvation and dirt. There is no hope for them living in the way
they are". Mr Dennard thought that as far as casuals are concerned they should get
a hut at Bourn and house them there

1923
A huge boiler, mounted on a trolley, and towed by two heavy traction engines, sank
into the roadway at the corner of Thompson's Lane, Cambridge, at about a quarter to
twelve this morning. It appears that the boiler was being conveyed to the Electric
Light Company’s works in Richmond Terrace, when the road collapsed under the
strain. The boiler is about 30 tons in weight, and was many feet in length, and it
is estimated that together the boiler and trolley weigh 40 tons. After several
hours work the boiler was extricated.

1898
The Barnum and Bailey great street parade will be a wonderful and stupendous
spectacle of men, women, children, horses, elephants, wild beasts, chariot, cars
and floats. Christopher Columbus, as well as scores of other characters famous in
his time, are all truthfully represented in rich costumes. Leading the pageant is
one of the most magnificent sights imaginable, a wondrous team of 40 fine bay
horses driven by one man. There are rich displays of open dens of wild beasts and
carved golden chariots, containing the splendid zoological collections, followed by
20 elephants, and allegorical chariots, illustrating nursery rhymes and children's
fairy stories. The whole affair is grand and inspiring.

WEDNESDAY
26th August

1973
Attendance figures at the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, dropped last year by more
than 4,000 to 116,998. The deputy director, Mr Graham Pollard, said it could be
part of a national scare about museum charges. The same had been experienced by
national museums in London where charges are due to be introduced from next
January. "We have no intention of imposing charges", he said

1948
Every housewife knows what it is like to spend a tiring time round the shops,
perhaps queuing at some, and then having to wend her way home, laden with a heavy
shopping basket and numerous parcels. Women in particular therefore will be
interested to hear about a delivery system which is to be started in Cambridge by
means of which the public can have their shopping delivered, instead of having to
carry it home themselves. The firm will operate from a stall on the market place.
Shoppers will be able to take their shopping to the stall and have them delivered
at their home the same morning. The charge will be 6d in the borough and 1s. in the
county within a five mile radius. The originators are Delivery Services, Cambridge,
who started up in business as "errand boy" to local firms last year

1923
Ely Council received a letter from L.N.E.R. company asking if they were prepared
to consider the question of developing Ely as a tourist centre. They had outlined
the cost of an advertising scheme as follows: pictorial poster, (300) to cover two
years, £90; guide book, mostly paid by local advertising, £50; newspaper
advertisements according to means available. A sum of £250 would give very good
publicity to Ely. Mr Burrows said that anything that would tend to popularise Ely
and attract people to the town should be done if practicable. There were several
people who would be willing to pay through the rates for the popularisation of Ely.

1898
Messrs Dilley and son, auctioneers, offered for sale the whole of the stock-in-
trade, machinery, coals, fittings etc of the "Cromwell" Engineering Works, St Ives,
by direction of Messrs Fowell and son, who are dissolving partnership. There was a
large company present, buyers coming from Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Sheffield
and all the engineering centres, as well as a crowd of local purchasers. There were
530 lots and the sale occupied a considerable time. The scrap iron fetched a record
price, one large heap of old cast iron realising £51. The plant and machinery
fetched a good price. The freehold premises comprising an extensive foundry, with
engineer’s workshop and three plots of building land adjoining the Great Eastern
Railway were also sold

THURSDAY
27th August
1973
Flames roared through more than 150 acres of prime crops worth more than £10,000 in
Haverhill's worst farmland fire in living memory. The fire swept for two miles
through six fields on neighbouring farms. Firemen armed only with flails and forks
were powerless as the wind fanned flames across hedges - scorching trees and
telegraph poles and missing farm buildings by only yards. Reinforcements were
brought in from Clare, Wickhambrook and Bury - nearly 20 miles away - as the blaze
cut into 50 acres of oats and barley on Mr Bill Patrick's Haverhill Hall Farm.
Police and even children armed with branches cut from trees, joined the battle

1948
The townsman's urge to escape to the countryside should be encouraged contended Mr
Geoffrey Clark at the Town and Country Planning Summer School at Cambridge.
Undoubtedly the most important aspect of country life was the development of
agriculture but the holiday interest can be satisfied by the provision of certain
facilities such as hostels, camps, eating places and well-defined footpaths.
Villages must have a detailed plan to deal with the addition accommodation which
will be required

1923
"What would a socialist government do with the universities?" was the subject of
an address by Professor Lindsay at a summer school at Scarborough. His reply to the
question was, "Give them a great deal more money, use them a great deal more, and
leave them alone." He conceded that if universities were not so exclusively devoted
to training middle class people for the professions, and if they undertook some
political and social teaching and research, bringing them into contact with the
life of the working classes, the objectionable aspects of its conservatism would
disappear. He would propose to extend the summer school habit which had greatly
grown in the past few years. Universities should not turn people out and neglect
them afterwards. The student who had gone out into life for a few years usually
knew what he wanted to learn, and applied himself more diligently, but, on the
other hand, his mind was less receptive

1898
Mr Horatio Wadsworth, mineral water manufacturer, of Bridge street, St Ives,
applied for a licence to sell bottled beer in quantities not less than a dozen half
pint bottles at a time. He was the owner of an excise licence to sell bottled beer
and this was simply an extension of that licence. He had every facility for
bottling beer and was now bottling the beer of a firm in this county up to five or
six thousand bottles. He intended to bottle local beer from Jenkins and Jones if he
got the licence. He would be the only bottler of beer in St Ives. It did not
interfere with the retailers of beer as he would not sell by single bottle or by
the jug. He would send out the bottled beer at the same time that he sent out soda
water and ginger beer

FRIDAY
28th August

1973
The second oldest business in Cambridge, G.P. Jones, the grocer of Trumpington
Street closed down at the weekend. They were established in 1623, three years after
the oldest business in the city, Bowes and Bowes. Now the old-world grocery shop,
famous for their blends of teas and statuesque tea jars, will become a fine art
shop. Mr Sidney Jones looks back with resignation to the days when the shop had its
own tea blending room before the war and produced over 20 blends. He said, "It was
inevitable that the grocery had to close as our regular customers became fewer and
fewer. More people have come in to try and buy the jars and old furniture of the
shop but I'm not parting with it for the moment"

1948
A "Boom Town" exhibition has been organised by the manager of the Central Cinema,
Cambridge. There are a number of attractive exhibits. For the interest of the
housewife there is a complete kitchen unit, including refrigerator and gas washing
machine, staged by the Cambridge University and Town Gas Light Company. There is
also an electrically operated washing machine, refrigerators, pressure cookers and
television sets exhibited by Messrs Herbert Robinson. The businessman should find
the office inter-comm. system exhibited by Messrs Marshall to be of interest. Other
exhibits include a piano, radiogram and musical instruments exhibited by Messrs
Miller and travel goods made by Papworth Industries.

1923
The death of Miss Letty Lind, the famous Gaiety actress and dancer of a former
generation, has recalled to an old Cambridge playgoer a visit she paid to the old
Theatre Royal some time in the 1880’s when she was at the height of her popularity.
She came in a Gaiety burlesque, and with her in the cast were two other great
favourite of that day, Nellie Farren and Fred Leslie. I believe she also paid a
flying visit to the new Theatre

1898
Cambridge, the one and only, Barnum and Bailey Greatest Show on Earth, grounds on
Huntingdon Road, September 8th. An overwhelming equestrian department, teeming with
every valuable attraction, filled with wonders, overflowing with grand features,
crowded with startling surprises, brimful of novelties, running over with mirthful
scenes, and abounding with thrilling sensations and glorious events. Presenting, in
vast Amplitude of Detail, Wild Beast, Chariot and Pedestrian Races, Fearless
Contests, Trials of Speed, Skill and Endurance. A World's Fair of modern marvels.
1,000 men, women, giants, midgets, dwarfs, tattooed people, sword swallowers,
bearded and long-haired lady, dog-faced boy, armless and legless men, snake
charmers. 1,000 marvellous sights and curious creations. One ticket admits to all
the attractions. (Advert)

LOOKING BACK

MONDAY
31st August

1973

The £20m. redevelopment scheme for the Fitzroy Street - Burleigh Street area of
Cambridge may go ahead with only minor modifications, following the result of a 13-
day public inquiry earlier this year. Several schemes for the area have been
considered and rejected over the past 10 years, but the present plans, designed by
international architects Piano & Rogers were adopted by the city and county
councils last year

1948
Pleading guilty to taking a US Army truck belonging to the American Graves
Registration Command of Milton Road, Cambridge, because he wanted to attend a
Saturday night dance in a neighbouring village, a 35-year old Newmarket labourer
was sentenced to three months imprisonment. The vehicle was an open type of truck
used to convey Newmarket workmen to Cambridge. Defendant took it from Newmarket and
drove to Dullingham. But as he parked the vehicle he ran the nearside wheels into
the ditch.

1923
Hundreds of people attended the formal opening of the new swimming bath on
Midsummer Common, Cambridge. The mayor said it was the only spot where they could
get a flow of water, which came from above the sluice, and in this way they were
able to always keep the water clean. It was surrounded by seven schools and they
believed it would be for the benefit of the young lives of the town that they
should be able to come there instead of bathing in the river, which was most
dangerous because of the mud and weeds. Speaking through a megaphone he said that
both he and his wife liked water, but they liked it warm. (A voice: "With a drop of
something in it!" and laughter)

1898
Royston is almost approaching a water famine, owing to the wells of the Water
Company being extremely low through the continued drought. It may be news to them
to know that in a cottage not a hundred miles from Kneesworth Street, which has
been unoccupied for some time, a tap has been pouring forth water for the past
month. It would be well for the company to give this instance their attention and
thus relieve the parishioners of the anxiety which would prevail at the rumour of
the mere appearance of a water famine

TUESDAY
1st September

1973
A mixture of anger and amazement greeted the news that the redevelopment scheme for
the Fitzroy-Burleigh area of Cambridge may go ahead with only minor amendments.
Some of the mass of objectors criticised the inspector’s recommendations. Coun.
Colin Rosensteil, Liberal Association, said it would be challenged in the new
Cambridge District Council: "It seems to ignore the whole question of city centre
congestion and the views and feelings of the residents of the area". Mr Bernard
Greaves said, "A grandiose re-development scheme like the one proposed was out of
date"

1948
In October 1947 the British Portland Cement Manufacturers returned to their
headquarters in London from their war-time offices at their Saxon Works, Coldham's
Lane, Cambridge, which were placed on the market for sale. The considerable
possibilities of the property for use by the Territorial Army as a drill hall and
training ground were readily apparent and after some negotiation, with the approval
of the War Office, the T.A. Association acquired the freehold of the 25-acre site,
together with the extensive buildings thereon at a price in excess of £35,000. The
buildings include a large hall at present occupied by the Regional Petroleum Office

1923
 It is claimed that a record was set up when a woman, aged 106, appealed to be put
on the voters list at Mildenhall. She was Mrs Lowther, of Tuddenham, and her claim,
pressed by Mr Elton Halliday, was successful. In spite of her age, Mrs Lowther
still takes much interest in politics, and knows a great deal about parties and
policies

1898
The securing of the Midsummer Common for the show grounds of the Barnum and
Bailey’s Circus, having been completed, they have found it necessary to make a
change in a number of their plans for the visit to Cambridge. The large number of
excursionists from the country districts who will be attracted by the presence of
the show will be thankful for the change. It will be possible to enjoy the evening
show with comfort, in the consciousness that it is easy to catch the trains
afterwards. The big show will arrive in Cambridge on four special trains, with a
total of 74 railway cars. The unloading will be done in the G.E. railway yards, and
the entire city of canvas, 14 tents in all, will be put up in the morning before
the parade starts out. Every bit of the show is coming to Cambridge

WEDNESDAY

2nd September

1973
Chesterton rural council today increased their mortgage interest rates to new
borrowers to a record of 12 per cent. This is believed to be one of the highest
figures charged by any local council in the country. Their rates to existing
borrowers remain unchanged; some of these are as low as five per cent. The
council's clerk said "People are not going to like our new rates but we have got to
charge them". Both Cambridge City Council and South Cambs Rural Council have also
increased their mortgage rates to 10 per cent

1948
Newmarket townsfolk, notorious for the fact that they seldom concern themselves
with anything outside of racing, are at the moment displaying more than a casual
interest in a fiery battle of words that is going on in the town between rival
sports fans representing Britain's two great national sports - football and
cricket. The verbal battle yesterday reached such a height in the pubs and clubs of
the Racing H.Q. that it may well be described as a pitched battle. A dispute has
arisen as to who should use a particular ground next Saturday when both clubs have
home fixtures

1923
The Tyler family at Dunmow have an unbroken record of service as postmen in the
same town for 106 years. Mr Peter Tyler, who is now retiring as a rural postman
after 38 years service, is a son, grandson, and great-grandson of a postman. His
great grandfather delivered letters in Dunmow in 1817. There was a risk of the
record being broken when Peter's grandfather died last century. His grandmother
stepped into the breach and delivered the letters until her son Isaac (Peter's
father) was qualified to do the work. Peter's son is extending the family history
by now delivering letters at Dunmow

1898
Last night the people of Fitzroy Street, Cambridge, were startled by a loud crash
and it was found that one of Messrs Sturton’s shop windows had smashed. It seemed
that a quantity of hams and cheeses were stored in the window and some becoming
dislodged, had rolled down to the glass and smashed it. The window was completely
wrecked and the cheeses and hams rolled into the street. The police were promptly
in attendance and remained on guard until Mr Sturton arrived and had the window
boarded up

THURSDAY
3rd September
1973
De Vere's have been given final planning permission to go ahead with their plans to
build a £2 million-plus hotel at the Huntingdon Road - Mount Pleasant junction,
Cambridge - almost five years after the project was first proposed. But the London-
based company are not saying yet when they intend to start building on the derelict
site overlooking one of the city's busiest road junctions. It was at the beginning
of 1969 that De Vere Hotels and Restaurants Ltd submitted their original plans for
the hotel

1948
The residents of Cambridge have probably regarded the close proximity of their
airfield to the town with mixed feelings, but it is doubtful if before yesterday
evening anybody ever regarded Cambridge airport as a health base. It is also
doubtful of Mr Anaurin Bevan ever connected his new Health Act with free air trips
but it is quite possible, after a successful experiment, that he will be inundated
with doctors' prescriptions recommending an air trip instead of some nasty tasting
medicine as a cure for certain complaints. The air flight was the culmination in
the cure of four-year old Jennifer McClement who has been suffering from whooping
cough. Her doctor recommended an air trip at an altitude of 10,000 feet.

1923
The Dangerous Drugs Act has increased the penalties for cocaine traffickers. They
may now be fined £1,000 and sent to penal servitude, but the amended Act says
nothing about hashish - a deadly Eastern drug which is taking the place of heroin,
cocaine, and morphine as a new form of the "dope" habit. It is the most deadly of
all the narcotics and can be smoked, chewed as confectionery, or taken in liquid
form in coffee or other beverage. It produces extraordinary mental exhilaration,
but this is followed by dreadful nightmares and depression and, if indulged in to
excess, insanity results

1898
Cherry Hinton is the meeting place of the old and new; a study in contrasts. St
John's ward contains trim villas, modern residences, and a population increasing
rapidly year by year. On the other hand, St Andrew’s ward is intensely rural, the
scene of scattered dwellings and old thatched gables. In short, St John's is
suburban, while St Andrew’s yet retains its agricultural character. Thus a drainage
scheme is less needed in the latter than the former and the inhabitants of St
Andrew’s insist that they will have none of it, while in the former it has long
been common knowledge that emphatically "something must be done", and that quickly,
for the constantly growing population

FRIDAY
4th September

1973
At least 40 new jobs will be created by the take-over of Clockwork Orange’s
clothing factory at St Neots by the Gay Girl group of London. In place of a split
line making dresses, trousers and blouses, the new ownership will make only slacks,
half of which are destined for export markets. Gay Girl, a £3-million a year group,
have formed Nethermere Ltd (St Neots) to run the operation and expand it. If things
go to plan they will be looking for another factory within a year, said the
Managing Director

1948
There are now over 41,000 wireless licences in the Cambridge postal area. This
represents one licence to every 4.5 members of the population. A recent Post
Office survey shows that in some streets like Eltisley Avenue and Alpha Road,
almost every house has a wireless licence, while in others only one in three is in
possession. Post office officials are still finding a number of unlicensed sets and
a further "comb" is being instituted for the purpose of detecting the holders of
illicit sets

1923
With the proclamation of the ancient Cambridge fair of Stourbridge there is the
prospect of a six weeks fair in that locality, though it is not likely to reach the
magnitude of more balmy days. This morning there was not a caravan in sight, but
kiddies with a few pennies need not give up; something is sure to turn up, even if
it's only a rock stall. Spectators were but small in number, consisting mainly of
youths and babies. According to the proclamation no unlawful disturbances should be
made, and "all idle and disorderly persons" should depart forthwith. Apparently
none of the spectators were offenders in these respects for no one made a move
until they had scrambled for the coppers thrown to them by the mayor, neither did
the rain-soaked constable on duty have to assist any ill-disposed individual in
search for pastures new

1898
Awful was the fate of an aged women residing in East Road Cambridge, on Saturday
night. Her body was found scorched, blackened and blistered in her burning house.
Every article of clothing was burned, and not a hair remained on her head. Those
who saw it were sickened at the uncanny sight. As quickly as possible she was
carried to a costermonger’s barrow and covered up with the first things that came
to hand, after which she was taken to Addenbrooke's Hospital. The fire brigade was
hampered as the telegraph wires are set so low in that part of the town that it is
impossible to run the fire escape along without catching the wires and causing not
only damage but delay. In this instance the escape was delayed by catching the
wires in Burleigh St

`LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
7th September

1973
One of the longest and fondest traditions in American military history came to an
end yesterday when the very last Dakota DC3 to serve in Northern Europe made its
final flight into Mildenhall air base. They used to call the plane the Gooney Bird
because of its ungainly and awkward appearance on the ground. Right on schedule the
US Navy plane flew in for a champagne reception at the Naval Air Facility,
Mildenhall

1948
An Exning dairyman was fined for an offence under the Food, Weights and Measures
Act. An Inspector said he saw the milkman delivering cartons of milk on a bicycle.
He purchased a pint for analysis and made the discovery that it was deficient by
half a fluid ounce. He agreed that the quality of the waxed containers in use at
the present day was lower than those used before the war. The milkman said he had
been delivering milk in cartons for 10 to 12 years. The ministry encourage the use
of that type of container. Milk was lost when the carton was sealed. The inferior
quality of the cartons "gave" causing the milk to "squeeze" out of the top
1923
The inconvenience of having the water supply to their residences disconnected twice
in quick succession has been the experience of Romsey town inhabitants, Cambridge.
There have been two distinct breakages, both the trunk and the district mains being
affected. The residents in the near neighbourhood of the bridge were given a
temporary supply by means of a fire brigade hose attached to a hydrant in
Devonshire round, the hose being extended over the bridge to Argyle Street. Then
unusual scenes were witnessed of people lining up for water. Men, women and
children assembled with a varied collection of receptacles and were kept in an
orderly queue under the guidance of a police constable. To add to the general
inconvenience three pumps in the affected district went dry during the night

1898
Fanny Elizabeth Laxton, an unfortunate, was charged with wilfully breaking two
panes of glass at the Three Compasses, East Road Cambridge, doing damage to the
amount of one shilling and with refusing to quit that house. She was also charged
with being drunk. For breaking the window she was sent to prison for a month with
hard labour, and for refusing to quit two weeks with hard labour. Prisoner was
removed to the cells vowing vengeance. As she left the dock to the regions below
her voice could still be heard crying, "You ought to wear a Salvation Army bonnet,
that you ought”

TUESDAY
8th September
The men from the Ministry have given in to the potato pickers of Burwell. They say
villagers can go and dig up the 80 tons of potatoes which red tape threatened to
let rot. They are in a field which has been bought for the construction of the
Newmarket bypass. Earlier this week about 40 villagers who were trying to salvage
the potatoes were ordered off the field by workmen. Villagers and conservationists
raised a storm of protest.

1948
Albert Barrett, about 63, of Newmarket, a licensed pedlar and well known in the
town as "Ackie Barrett", the Old Moore's Almanac man, died in White Lodge Hospital
following an accident at the Wood Ditton level crossing. For many years, Barrett, a
familiar figure in his shining black gaiters, was also an ice cream vendor

1923
The death took place early this morning of Mr Ebeneezer Peters, a partner in the
firm of Peters, Elworthy and Moore, accountants and auditors. He was born in
Cambridge & commenced his business career with the late Mr Dixon, bookseller,
Market Street. He then joined his brother and formed the partnership of Peters
Brothers over 40 years ago, carrying out the duties of assessor and collector of
taxes from then up to the time of his death

1898
Today Cambridgeshire folk in their thousands have seen the a procession of the
"greatest show on earth" and now they can exist through the remainder of a dull
vacation chewing, mentally, the cud of their reflections. Before dawn Barnum-struck
people could be found waiting for the arrival of the monsters and wonders of the
world. And then for hours there was a steady traffic of all manner of men and
beasts and creeping things. Huge elephants and gilded cars, endless teams of horses
- a continual movement of deliberate and well ordered detail. First came four of
our borough police, looking as smart as possible on their coal black steeds, though
somewhat warm. The Sun came out full faced to see the show. It was broiling hot!
Many a grizzled old agriculturist who came to scoff remained to praise, and
exclaimed perpetually on the beautiful cattle. In their cages, amid lions, bears,
wolves and hyenas came one after another keeper, calmly sitting on his stool,
cynically surveying the wonder-struck lines of the town’s and country’s curious.
Then the spectacular pageant, "The return of Columbus to Barcelona", another band,
the elephants wearing strange and curious instruments representative of far off
climes, and at length that vast array of the world's collected curios is past.
Everyone is going to see the show. For hours the box office has been a Klondike

WEDNESDAY
9th September
1973
A Fen Drayton grower who has dumped 12,000 lbs of tomatoes because it was not worth
his while selling them, is appealing to colleagues to unite and agree on a minimum
price for the fruit. Mr Eric Jarnet owns six acres of land two of which are covered
by greenhouses. Last week he dumped the crop because the market price had dropped
to between 30p and 35p a 12lb chip. He said he would be left with 8p for a chip of
average grade after covering marketing and transportation costs. Out of this he has
to cover staff wages and the running and maintenance of his property

1948
A Mosquito aircraft took off from Cambridge Airport on July 5th and has not been
heard of since. Yesterday the Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed that this
aircraft had disappeared in addition to the four former RAF Beaufighters, already
reported missing. It has been suggested that a secret organisation had made
elaborate plans to facilitate the purchase of surplus aircraft suitable for
military use in the Middle East. Brief reports from secret service agents tend to
confirm that the missing Beaufighters are in Palestine. The Mosquito owner VC Group
Captain G.L. Cheshire said he bought two Mosquitoes in 1946, “The ministry refused
to issue certificates of airworthiness, so they were useless to me. I stored one at
Cambridge and the other at Abington”

1923
This week is the last of a successful variety season at the New Theatre,
Cambridge, and the programme forms a very attractive wind-up. It consists of comedy
and more serious turns combined in very acceptable proportion; all the turns are
quite good and very entertaining. Gaston Morrel is a comedian of a type but little
known to Cambridge, in that he never says a word. His turn is called "Cleaning a
lamp" and since a certain beverage of inebriating properties and a ladder are used,
then there is some excitement. Laura and Kaley, a couple of witty ladies attired as
school girls, sing and tell funny stories. Nan Foster, a vocalist with a pleasing
soprano voice, sings some charming songs. Joe Cohan and Anna Dorothy play the old
old comedy of the quarrelling husband and wife, their turn being known as "Two Wise
Fools". Fred Keeton, a comedian is a very cheerful soul, with a partiality for
donuts with jam in the middle. He sings a lengthy ballad on the trials and
tribulations of a fireman

1898
Just now the grounds surrounding the Arrington police station present a pleasing
aspect. The flower-beds are looking their best, crowned as they are with all the
colours of the rainbow. The beds on the lawn, which are composed of two shades of
asters, look lovely, whilst the borders and windowsills are one mass of flowers.
Superintendent Wilderspin spares neither time nor labour in making the building and
its surroundings presentable; and the remarks that are bestowed upon the worthy
police officer by passers-by are certainly deserved

THURSDAY
10th September
1973
Prof John Parry Lewis, the Manchester don who has just finished the biggest
Cambridge re-development plan ever devised, has told the Government that it may as
well be scrapped now if the new Fitzroy-Burleigh Street shopping centre goes ahead.
When his final report is published it will contain some sweeping proposals. One of
these is for a new commercial centre on the Cambridge outskirts - perhaps in the
Trumpington area - in order to siphon shops and traffic away from the historic
heart of the city

1948
New Hunstanton is on the way to becoming New Look Hunstanton. The council's plans
for redeveloping this "Cambridge-next-the-sea" resort. The Council chairman said,
“People are no longer contented to amuse themselves by just sitting and playing on
the beach and we intend to cater for this" This change of policy has been going on
in a small degree since the 1920s when the bathing pool, now known as the Blue
Lagoon, and the boating lakes were built. Prior to that Hunstanton, since it was
founded in 1860, discouraged day-trippers, at first it refused to have Sunday
trains! Motor traffic ended its isolation. Now it intends to devote the South Beach
to the interests of day visitors from the Midlands - on good Sundays 4,000 cars
come into the town - and the North end will be developed in the interests of those
who come for a longer stay in this delightful holiday centre

1923
We regret to record the death of Mr J E L Whitehead, town clerk of
Cambridge. He attended Emmanuel College and took the law as his profession, being
articled to his uncle who was many years Borough Treasurer. He practised at an
office in Alexandra street until he was appointed town clerk in succession to Mr
Edmund Foster in August 1887. For many years he was a member of the Cam sailing
club and was a prominent member of the Bijou Amateur dramatic Club and played
juvenile lead in many of their productions

1898
At Saffron Walden Town Council Mr Midgley made an inquiry as to the water supply,
and questioned whether it would not be well to check the too free use of water in
gardens. The surveyor stated that the water was not so high in the well as it had
been by about two feet, but it was not so low as in 1897. Alderman Gibson said
there was no chance of such a thing as a water famine. It must be remembered that
they were not getting their water from a reservoir, but from "the bowels of the
earth." The surveyor said that the average per day for the population was 15
gallons

FRIDAY
11th September
1973
Fairview Estates, the first major developer to beat the building ban in Saffron
Walden caused by the sewage crisis, have suggested making a financial contribution
towards the town’s £1¼ million sewage scheme in return for a further planning
agreement with the borough council. They already have permission to build 130 of
250 new houses allowed by improvements to the existing sewage works. The new offer
follows the refusal of their planning application for a further 90 houses off
Railey Road. George Wimpey also want to build 56 houses at Highfields

1948
When the East Road Boys' Club reopens in its new premises behind the St John's
Mission Church in Wellington Street, Cambridge, another year of really constructive
work by its members will have begun. This club has proved what great feats can be
accomplished when a team of boys learn to work together and understand their
responsibilities to the community and club. The boys' ages range from 14 to 18 and
their programme is designed to create a balance in their physical, spiritual and
mental development. During the past year, for example, they won the Pointer Cup for
boxing. It is run entirely by voluntary effort and has a membership of 100 boys.

1923
At Newmarket Board of Guardians the Clerk read a circular letter stating the
facilities for emigration and giving the labour needs of the various colonies. Rev.
S.F. Cunningham said he often saw young fellows of 19, 20 or 21 years of age
standing about idle, with the exception of harvest time and odd jobs. Some of the
more energetic boys had emigrated, and they were writing home to say they were
doing well. They had repaid their passage money out of their wages. Agriculture at
home was not as prosperous as it used to be, and they could very well send out some
of their surplus population for the good of themselves and for the good of the
empire as well

1898
At St Ives Town council Mr Ruston said that it was desirable something be done to
avoid the nuisance which arose through the Michaelmas fair being held on the market
place. There was a great nuisance caused by the smoke from the caravans, and the
stench which arose from their refuse. It would be a very good thing if they could
have the fair held outside the town. He did not see why they should encourage "riff
raff”; they ought to preserve the tranquillity of the town. The Mayor thought that
if the horse fair was held in the overflow market instead of in the back streets it
would be an alteration which one could not very well object to

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
14th September

1973
Eighteen Ely people won international fame for their home town when they battled
their war through a crazy obstacle course in a game which is being watched by 150
million television viewers. Ely became the Knock Out kings of Europe by a mere two
points. With defeat staring them in the face they staged a storming finish to wrest
he crown from six other countries in Paris. Many Fenlanders were openly weeping or
walking around the arena in a daze as they realised they had achieved a dream which
started more than a year ago

1948
Heavy and persistent ran put a literal damper on Cambridge Centaur Motor Cycle
Club's last scramble of the 1948 season at The Moats, Caxton, but a large crowd
defied the weather to watch a first-class programme of races. Mackintoshes were the
order of the day - even some of the riders were wearing them! The Caxton course was
slightly longer, and somewhat trickier than that at Cherry Hinton. The rain, mixing
with the earth churned up by the motorcycles, quickly produced a treacherous muddy
surface which increased the natural hazards facing the competitors. Indeed the
first hill on the circuit proved to be practically unconquerable - rider after
rider came to grief there - and quite early the course was remarked to bypass the
dangerous slope

1923
Ely’s water tower has gone dry and the whole of the interior is under renovation,
drained of every drop of its 330,000 gallons of water, which is a day and a half’s
supply for Ely City. Water is drawn from the river Ouse into a filter bed, where it
is pumped by a steam engine through 1,400 yards of pipes into the tank. The number
of bricks in the tower is estimated to be 618,000 the first of which was made by
the Dean of Ely in 1854. The wisdom of the Dean showed itself in laying the first
brick, and not the last, which is 140 feet above the level of the Ouse

1898
At Haverhill a young man was charged by Frederick Hicks, cycle maker, with
stealing a quantity of spelter, borax, rubber and solution. The defendant was
employed as foreman cycle maker at 6½d pence per hour. Soon after he asked his
master whether he could make a bicycle in his own time. It would take 20 hours to
build a machine without the wheels and another four hours to build the wheels. The
missing ingredients would have been used for making up the bicycle. The case was
dismissed

TUESDAY
15th September
1973
Cambridge City Council and the new county council have to settle a who-pays-what
dispute that could delay the opening of the city's new public library by many
months. The row centres on the cost of fitting out the new library. Local
government reorganisation means that the city council will disappear and their
successors will not have any legal responsibility for running libraries. This will
rest with the new county council. They are worried that rural area ratepayers will
be saddled with the cost of a large prestige building mainly for the benefits of
city residents and if they pump hundreds of thousands of pounds into it other large
towns in the county will demand similar treatment

1948
Blasting operations were carried out in Cambridge in an effort to locate an
underground fire which is known to have been burning for a fortnight. It is at
Messrs Duce's scrap dump in Newmarket Road. A squad of Royal Engineers from Bury S
Edmunds fired three 10 lb charges of nitro-glycerine type of explosive, but the
fire could not be traced. Traffic was stopped while the explosions took place and a
certain amount of small debris fell onto the road. The fire is amongst scrap which
has been tipped into a disused pit and covered with earth. Smoke has been seen
issuing form widely-separated points in the ground and firemen have been digging in
an effort to find the seat of the blaze

1923
Gramophone enthusiasts, and nowhere are they more numerous than in Cambridge, will
be interested in the striking new invention which as just been placed on the
market. Sir Henry Wood and other eminent musicians were among the large company
present at the first public demonstration of the "Columbia Grafonola" and bore
testimony to the marvellous improvement effected. Music can now for the first time
be reproduced with a fidelity of tone that does justice to the artists and give
satisfaction to the music lover

1898
The "Cambridge Express" carries an article which read: "I heard an unpleasant tale
from the workhouse hospital the other day. It appears that when a Cambridge patient
is to poor to pay 1s. a week for his coffee, and sugar, it is customary to inform
the Relieving Officer of the fact, who will ensure that their wants shall be
attended to. It is said that groceries of a sort are sent, but they are of such a
quality as to render them anything but acceptable to the recipient". The contractor
begs to say that the above quoted statement is a deliberate lie. It seemed that the
worst things they could say about the Guardians the better they liked it

WEDNESDAY
16th September
1973
Ely's victorious "It's a Knockout" team who followed up their British win and
international success at Arnhem by winning the European championship were given the
biggest civic reception ever seen in the city. Thousands of cheering people lined
the streets for what team manager, David Cornwell, described as a "fantastic
response". Afterwards there was a champagne celebration at the Maltings

1948
"I feel the club has served a very useful purpose. Even if it dies now, the effect
will not die for many years. It has made Gilbert Road a sociable road. So said Mr
D.I. Piggott (chairman) when announcing that the Gilbert Road Social Club, which
was formed out of the friendships made at the VJ party at the end of the war is in
the process of being wound up. The secretary said "We have 308 adult members, but
the greater part of them do not come to any ordinary functions". The proposal to
wind up the club was carried unanimously

1923
Following a recent letter from the Vicar of Fordham in praise of the free library
scheme which is being run in the villages by the Cambridgeshire County Council.
Boxes of books of all classes are sent to the various villages, where demand for
them has been found two exist, and are returned at the end of three months in
exchange for a fresh supply. The first boxes went to 65 villages and boxes were
also sent to 43 elementary schools for the special use of children. There are now
88 library centres in the county, and only 28 villages have not yet taken advantage
of the benefit of the service. The scheme aims to develop the reading habit
amongst those who have, as yet, been content too read nothing but the Sunday
newspaper and a penny novelettes. Those in authority have no desire to a attain a
standard which may to be called "high brow" but hope to increase a healthy appetite
for good books

1898
Important notice. In connection with an attempt to force upon the public a scheme
for promoting a second daily paper for Cambridge, most dishonourable and dastardly
tactics have been adopted towards this Journal. The matter is to come before a
legal tribunal and a shocking conspiracy will then be revealed to the public.
Public or private enterprise we gladly welcome, whether it be in journalism or any
other calling. If amateur pressmen have several thousands to throw away - for that
is what it means - we do not at all object. But let the fight be fair and square

THURSDAY
17th September
1973

The Cambridge by-passes have been given the Government go-ahead. Work may now begin
in less than a year on the £30m.-plus scheme to give the city its biggest new road
complex in history. Within four years Cambridge is likely to have 14 miles of new
motorway and nine miles of new trunk road to bleed heavy lorries and other traffic
away from the historic heart of the city. It will also mean a much-improved A604
route between Cambridge & Huntingdon - at present one of the busiest and most
accident-prone roads for miles. Today's announcement ends years of argument and
months of speculation following a record-breaking public inquiry stretching over
six months early last year

1948
The almost inexhaustible number of uses to which synthetic resin can be put in
Britain's post-war industries was demonstrated at an exhibition by Aero Research
Ltd, Duxford. Features include the many uses to which one of the firm’s adhesives
"Redux" can be put in the construction of aircraft. In contrast to this was the
house-hold carpet sweeper and a bedroom suite where aluminium sheets are bonded to
veneer with corrugated cardboard interior packing. Another section is devoted to
"Araldite", a new resin used in metal-to-glass and metal-to-metal bonding with
exhibits loaned by the Atomic Research establishment at Hanwell

1923
The death took place of Mr James Newton. A Cambridge man born and bred he was
respected amongst local butchers, farmers and others associated with the butchery
trade in Cambridge. He had a remarkable record of continuous service with one firm
having been apprenticed at the age of ten years, in 1852, to Mr John Goodliffe, of
Sidney Street Cambridge, and remained in the service of the same firm all his
working life. He retired in 1922 after 70 years faithful and interrupted service.
Mr Newton was one of the founders of the Master Butchers Association which was
established in March 1898.

1898
This morning shows a big blank in the row of houses in Church End, Cottenham. A
little after before eight o'clock some children called Mrs Smith and told her that
a boy was setting a fire near her husband's stacks. Very quickly the stacks,
outbuildings, barn and furniture were devoured. In the buildings were two horses
and two pigs, which it was impossible to save, and they were roasted alive. The
burning flesh could be smelled a long way down the Street. On went the fire to the
adjoining premises, "The Jolly Millers" inn. In a back room lay Mr Thomas Legge,
the veteran postman, fast asleep, and he was carried out of harms way just in the
nick of time. That ancient, lumbering instrument known as the Cottenham fire engine
was hauled out from among the cobwebs and after a lengthy leakage it did its best
to sprout the limited supply of water on the flames

FRIDAY
18th September
1973

The environmental effects on the Cambridgeshire countryside and a number of

villages in the building of the Cambridge bypasses are given in the Government's
go-ahead to the projects. The inspector concludes that at Grantchester
environmental intrusion would be mitigated by a properly conceived planting scheme
& the effects on the village would not be serious. At Hauxton and Lt Shelford the
environmental effects, though great, would not be intolerable. The Inspector does
not support Girton's claims that the area will be severed in any practical sense by
the Cambridge Northern Bypass. The new road would pass in a cutting and noise
screening is recommended. At Fenstanton the Inspector thinks that the noise problem
is more important than any partial severance of the village by the A604. He
recommends noise screening,

1948
Problems arising from the great post-war expansion in the numbers of undergraduates
and graduate students at the Cavendish Laboratory were mention by Prof Sir Lawrence
Bragg in a lecture. They had gone up three times as compared with pre-war. More
than 160 researchers were working in the laboratory of whom 110 were research
students. After referring to nuclear research he spoke of the radio group, where
the start of radar was seen, and where work was being carried on to examine the
intriguing radio waves that come to us from sun spots and from the outer space

1923
Sir - During the time that Silver Street, Cambridge, has been closed for traffic,
some hundreds of persons have used Mill Lane, Sheep's Green to Newnham mill path.
This opens a solution of the problems of relieving Silver Street of a great number
of bicycles, especially during the dinner hour. I would like the Corporation to
consider widening the wooden bridges, lessening the gradients, covering in the
outlets of Newnham mill, and improving the cobble stones in Mill Lane, in order to
encourage cycle riders to use this way. The one drawback to this scheme is the
sharp turn at the King’s mill corner, but this might also be overcome –
“Newnhamite”

1898
At an inquiry at St Ives the East Hunts Water Company said that for several days
there was no supply to the taps. If they erected stand pipes it would be
detrimental to their company as their 116 customers would go to the stand pipe for
their drinking supply and use other water for cleaning purposes. The medical
officer of health said that the pumps had been closed in 1893 as they were polluted
with sewage and notices placed on the pumps would be insufficient to prevent people
drinking the water. The Vicar said the river was so low that it had prevented a
large number of persons from getting the water from the river for sanitary purposes

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
21st Sept

1973
The scheme for the first stage of major housing development at "millionaire row",
Hardwick is now before the county planners. More than 50 villagers made around £1
million last May when they sold their shares in the 80-acre site to two developers.
The land had been bought back in 1935 by the "philanthropist" Mr William Game who
saw it as a "green dream" for Cockneys who wanted to quit London for the
countryside. His vision was for a one-acre plot and a cow for each owner. But it
dimmed when the plan failed because of the poor quality of the land, which fell
into disuse from the 1950s. Now the village is set to get a recreation ground,
village hall and school in a scheme devised for the Limes Estate. The first phase
comprises 147 houses and 10 bungalows

1948
The normally peaceful lanes leading to Stradishall airfield hummed with the sounds
of traffic. A constant stream of motor cars and motor coaches was pouring into the
spacious confines of this huge Suffolk Bomber Command station - not to mention the
largest number of bicycles were have ever seen at an outdoor event. We even saw
grandma gazing intently at the rear gun position of a B.29, or, as we prefer to
call them, the Superforts. High spot of the flying display was an attack by six
Lancasters and six Lincolns on a specially constructed "village" in the centre of
the airfield. One attack was sufficient to blast it to a pile of burning rubble.
There was a Spitfire too, and if you felt so inclined you could have your
photograph taken seated in the cockpit

1923
Papyrus was given his final gallop at Newmarket yesterday and gave a smooth
display. A special train will convey him from Newmarket to Cambridge and on to
Southampton. He will sail in the Aquitania and should arrive in New York on 28th.
The interior of his box is lined all round with air cushions of a thickness of
about 10 inches. Should this loose box by any remote chance be washed overboard the
pneumatic padding would keep him afloat. The fittings from his own stable at
Newmarket have been used in the construction of the box. Bar Gold, his stable
companion, and the black cat and kitten, also friends, will accompany him on the
voyage.

1898
On Saturday morning the horses attached to a heavily laden Omnibus, going to
Cambridge railway station, stopped short and refused to budge after drawing the
vehicle right across the tramway. A tramcar was close behind, and was also full of
country folk leaving to catch their trains and, of course, had to stop also. Full
five minutes elapsed before the unruly steeds could be induced to resume their
journey, during which period many of the passengers decided to alight and resume
their journey on foot

TUESDAY
22nd Sept
1973

Like some great suicidal spider Cambridge will have eaten its heart out by the turn
of the century. Such is the dramatic prophecy of Professor John Parry Lewis who has
been making a complete study of its future. Specifically he is saying is that if
Cambridge proceeds with the scheme to build a twin shopping centre in the Fitzroy
Street - Burleigh street area it will be signing the death knell of the present
Market Square area. He concludes that a new focus for commercial activity must be
developed on the edge of the city either in the Trumpington area or to the east
near Marshall's airport. This cannot be done if the Fitzroy-Burleigh scheme
proceeds, as the indications now are that it will

1948
Young children running out of a Huntingdonshire school stopped their laughing and
playing when they heard three shots ring out and saw their 22-year-old teacher fall
dying in the playground. The assistant headmistress ran forward to her aid, but she
died in her arms. Nearby lay a man with a bullet wound in his head. A revolver was
found on the ground a few yards away. He was taken to Huntingdon County Hospital in
a critical condition and died without regaining consciousness. An inquest decided
she had been murdered by her ex-fiancée.

1923
A very serious fire, which at one time looked like sweeping away an entire
village, broke out at Ickleton on Saturday night. Due to some boys playing with
fireworks a stack on Mr Griggs' farm burst into flames and it was not many minutes
before the entire stackyard was on fire and it was soon obvious that the only
building that could be saved was the farm house itself. By the time the fire
engines arrived the sky was lit up for miles around and pieces of burning material
were flying over the village. Thatched roofs were continually catching fire and
householders were kept busy all night putting out burning parts of their property.
The fire soon spread to the Priory Farm. It was not long before the three ponds
which had supplied the tenders with water were dry, and the nearest source of
supply was the river. It was the biggest fire since the blaze at Chesterford in
1914 and a really big calamity was only averted by 15 hours strenuous work on
behalf of all concerned

1898
The site in Sturton street, Cambridge on which the new buildings of the Co-
operative Society have been erected has a frontage of exactly a hundred feet. To
the East are erected to substantial houses, to be occupied by servants of the
society - who are to have the care of the dairy department, and on the North is a
shop with plate glass front, fitted with marble top counters. Behind this has been
erected a dairy and slaughter-house. There is a space for washing and cleaning the
carts, vans and horses. Pens for sheep, pigs and cattle are also provided

WEDNESDAY
23rd Sept
1973
Long-established family business in Cambridge city centre say they may be forced to
close because their college landlords are demanding up to nine times the existing
rent to renew expiring leases. The owner of Colin Lunn Ltd, a tobacconists which
has stood in Kings Parade since 1899 said he had received a letter from Trinity
Hall's estate agents specifying a 95% increase from his current rent of £500. Mr
Peter Stockbridge attacked Corpus Christi college for almost trebling the rent for
his antique shop to around £3,000. An abrasive reaction came from the proprietor of
the Copper Kettle restaurant who have been told unofficially that their rent is to
be trebled

1948
Several million people in Great Britain ate their Sunday dinner to a radio
broadcast of Cambridge accents and comments from the clubroom of Histon's Barley
Mow. Jake Smith told the "Country Magazine" programme some stories of his pumping
station during the 1947 floods - how it was swamped out and subsequently pumped
non-stop for 336 hours. "Everything went through the pumps", he said, "including a
tremendous lot of fish". Fred Toates told of his job of getting rid of rats and
rabbits, with wasps and hornets as a summer-time addition. "Funny thing how the
hornets get into all the "posh" houses - Doctor's and parsons and such places. Mrs
Young Nightingale said "I've always done gleaning ever since I can remember. It’s a
job you've got to like doing, because it’s very tiring. If you don't keep your back
down you won't get much

1923
Mr Henry Morris, director of education for Cambridgeshire, told a meeting that at
present many of the county schools had an average attendance of under 30, and some
had 10 children. It was no use sending out a body of enthusiastic lecturers in Ford
motor vans into the villages unless they had in those villages a sound elementary
education. A village institution was needed to cover every phase of life and the
village school master would be practically the village leader

1898
An inquest was held at Cardinal’s Green, Shudy Camps, touching the death of a
child of seven years. Her mother said the child had complained of sickness. For
dinner she had beef, pudding and potatoes and drank water fetched from a pond in
the garden. It was the only water supply for drinking purposes in that part of the
parish. There was no pump, well, or other supply of water. Doctor Jones said that
the water was most dangerous, full of injurious microbes, and ought never to be
used, even for washing domestic utensils, without being first boiled. Linton
district council were told they should take immediate steps to cause a good supply
of water to be effected

THURSDAY
24th September

1973
Attempts by 93-year-old Miss Florence Lilley to get Castle Green, Kimbolton,
registered as a village green and for 17 acres of Kimbolton Park to be registered
as common land have failed. The Commons Commissioner says the use of the land by
Kimbolton residents was not as of right. But Miss Lilley declared she would fight
on. "Rogues have cheated Kimboltonians out of everything. I have been fighting them
for 20 years". She told the Inquiry that Queen Alexandra's Nurses occupied the
castle during the last war and that Lord Montagu held a 21-year lease before that.
As evidence of public use she produced picture postcards of Queen Victoria's
Jubilee celebrations, which she remembers.

1948
The forthcoming Territorial Army recruiting campaign will include women as well as
men. We prefer to think of them as A.T.S., and to refer to them under a title to
which they brought so much credit during the war. What is being formed in Cambridge
is E Company no1 (eastern) group which will, presumably be very similar to its
"Mother" unit, formed at Cambridge in 1938 - a general duties company. A local
Commander is a great asset to any Territorial Unit and E Company have secured Miss
A.M. Hales, who was born in Linton

1923
Stourbridge fair, Cambridge, has been for the last few years dwindling in size and
seemed likely to become nothing more than a custom. This year it has taken a new
lease of life through the enterprise of Messrs Thurston and Sons. The amusements
are of the usual varied type, the most noticeable absentee being the once popular
Hoop-la. One may however indulge in the excitement of "Housey, Housey". Thurston’s
scenic railway, Manning’s flying horses and the swing boats provide the thrill of
the rush through space. Need we add that the whelk stall occupies the place of
honour

1898
What is the most marvellous invention of the Queen's reign? The electric
telegraph, the sewing machine, the telephone, the X rays - any one of a dozen
things might be mentioned. It is however the phonograph - a bit of glass in a
frame, a bit of sapphire, a waxen cylinder, a machine that revolves by clockwork,
and a tin horn. Result, the human voice has been caught, imprisoned and made to
repeat itself again and again for all time. Though the phonograph is an endless
source of pleasure it has a serious side. No business office today is up to date
with out it. It is invaluable in answering correspondence, as it can be dictated to
at any time as fast as you speak. And phonographs are now in universal use in
teaching elusive pronunciation of foreign languages.

FRIDAY
25th September

1973
If a superstore was not built at Bar Hill the existing shops in the village would
peter out, a director of Bar Hill Development Company told members of Bar Hill
Parish Council and the residents association. He added "the shops are costing us
money and there is a limit to how much we are going to spend". The only way the
shops would prosper was when a superstore was operating nearby. But it was obvious
that several members of the audience did not agree with this. A survey showed 44.3%
did not want a superstore anywhere in the village. "We don't want a large store
bringing in hundreds of people from outside into the village,” said Ron Page of the
residents' association

1948
References to the present position regarding the European Volunteer Workers was
made at a meeting of the Cambridge Employment Committee. At Warboys a volunteer
camp had been opened for the accommodation of volunteer workers in agriculture
during the holidays and over 1,750 volunteers had spent periods in the camp since
it was opened. The committee expressed anxiety with regard to the number of
European volunteer workers unplaced at the West Wratting holding hostel and Mr
Harding said he considered that the object for which these people were recruited
had now been fulfilled and that recruitment from the Continent should now cease

1923
By the death of its librarian, Mr F. H. Jenkinson, the university loses one who has
served it with great distinction for many years. He was a man of remarkable and
attractive personality. But possibly what most people will recall were his remarks
on the care of books. He told a Library Association conference that it seemed
incredible that educated men would send packages of six books by parcel post
wrapped in one thickness of indifferent paper and held together with string.
Strapping books on bicycles was another deleterious practice. "Perhaps some of us
care too much for books, but most people care much too little," he said

1898
The Cambridge Daily News has made arrangements with the Edison-Bell Phonographs
Company Ltd to supply photographs to the readers of the Cambridge Daily News on
such easily fulfilled conditions that no reader need be without a photograph -
whether he needs it in his business or by his hearth. This phonograph is no toy -
it is a perfected machine, endorsed with the power of receiving, retaining, and
emitting the human voice. The machine and equipment we suggest cost you seven
guineas for the Standard Phonograph and four records selected from the list,
together with eight blank cylinders for correspondence purposes or for making home
records and a carrying case. Machines sent, carriage paid, upon receipt of the
subjoined order and a guinea

LOOKING BACK,
MONDAY

28th September

1973
A group called the Romsey Town project intend to open a cafe which will serve as a
community centre, discussion room and open newsroom for their paper "Romsey News".
The paper, which is self-supporting at 2p a copy has a circulation of 1,500. Jean
White, an organiser, said "The people of Romsey Town get a rough deal in Cambridge
as far as amenities are concerned. There is no cinema - only pubs and the Labour
Club. There is no real centre for the town as Mill Road carries traffic straight
through - though in my opinion the shopping centre is better than the centre of
Cambridge. We have joked about charging higher prices depending on the length of
hair so that the cafe will not become a student centre from the University"

1948
Speaking on the Radio "Country Magazine" broadcast from Histon Reg Robinson, a
Babraham farmer, said "You'll only get one quart out of a waggoner", which had a
similar meaning to "a pint out of a pint pot". The "waggoner" was a grey china mug
out of which the waggoners of bygone days used to have a quart when they stopped at
a public house. "The last one I saw was at the King's Head, Sawston," Mr Robinson
added. “Some of them used to have a pattern with a black line round the top". I
wonder if there are any to be found in local "pubs" these days?

1923
This week many recipients of telegrams in Cambridge have had their messages come to
them in a form new to this area - in the shape of narrow blue paper strips gummed
on the ordinary Telegraph forms, and bearing the message neatly typewritten in
bold, clear letters. This is the result of the coming into operation at Cambridge,
for messages to and from London, of the Baudot machine telegraph, which has many
advantages over the ordinary Morse working. A representative of this paper was
shown the new instruments which have been installed in the Telegraph room at the
Cambridge G.P.O.

1898
Cambridge is in possession of municipal buildings, which in their inartistic
blending of the old and the new, are somewhat of an eyesore. The old buildings on
which age has laid its hand heavenly are in front. The new tower behind. Some time
ago this blemish came home so strongly that it was proposed to pull down the old
part and rebuilt the front to be in harmony with the buildings in the rear. It
should be of a design sufficiently imposing that the Guildhall should hold its own
with the other buildings of Cambridge. Is this the time came to embark upon an
expensive scheme for the adornment of the town, praiseworthy as that scheme may be?
The rates are already as high as need be, and there is no prospect of their being
lowered
TUESDAY
29th September
1973
The cost of improving and modernising the public library at Mill Road, Cambridge,
has risen to £13,790 due to inflation. For a number of years the Library Committee
have had a programme of improvements they hoped to make to some of their ageing
branch libraries. But repeatedly the economy-conscious city council have cut back
on the projects. This year they agreed that the Mill Road scheme could go ahead to
brighten up and repair the buildings. But since the estimates were received
inflation has taken its toll

1948
The fear that the centre of gravity of the new Fen county to be formed from
Cambridgeshire, Hunts., the Isle of Ely and the Soke of Peterborough would be at
Peterborough and so cause Cambs villages to become forgotten backwater outposts,
was expressed by the Chairman of the Parish Councils Association. The Boundary
Commission have agreed to amalgamate the four counties and make a big new Fen
county, to take Cambridge out of it and make it a new kind of county borough.
“Histon and such like are quite big places at Shire Hall now, but we will have only
a small voice at Peterborough", he said

1923
Cambridge town council agreed a scheme to construct a road across Coe Fen from the
Coach and Horse public house, Newnham, to Coe Fen Lane. The Ministry of Transport
have agreed to pay half the cost, and the road will be commenced almost at once so
as to provide work for the unemployed during the coming winter. The scheme had been
before the Council for nearly 20 years. Nine or 10 schemes had been presented and
each member of the council appeared to think his particular scheme was the best.
The great advantage of the present scheme was that the whole length of the road
would be on the council's own land.

1898
The following were granted permission to keep their houses open until 11 o’clock
on the occasion of Sutton feast on October 3rd: William Rushbrooke, The Oak;
Alexandra Willingham, The Crown; John Smith, The Ship; Amos Clark, Black Horse;
James Dewey, Windmill; William Wayman, George and Dragon and Josiah White, Red Lion

WEDNESDAY
30th September
1973
A chronic staff shortage could force another halt on routine admissions to
Addenbrooke's Hospital this winter. The situation is so grave that the hospital's
laundry have less than half the 60 staff they need, New Addenbrooke’s have only 13
of the 24 cooks and assistant cooks they need. The general porters and distribution
section have only 31 out of 41 members on the establishment. No extra beds have
been opened at the new site since July when 15 wards were opened with 372 beds. The
board hope to have 514 beds in 21 wards open by February of next year

1948
Speaking at the Cambs Parish Councils Association conference the agricultural
adviser to the Foreign Office said there were two reasons why rural life was going
to change fundamentally during the next 10 or 20 years. Food was going to be much
harder to come by, and was going to cost much more, and the agricultural strength
of the country was going to be of far greater weight than it had. We must make
people realise that those who live in it are not "poor backward hicks" but real
contributors. The country should realise its importance compared with the urban
side of our life

1923
"I would be very glad if you could use your influence to induce all the shops in
Cambridge to keep open during the dinner hour. Several of the larger ones are
already doing so, but there are still numbers which close down for about 75
minutes. I wonder if they realise the amount of trade they lose in the week. How
often people want to purchase something in a hurry during their dinner hour. The
shop assistants themselves often require articles from other shops and now that
nearly all shops close at the same time it gives no one a chance in an emergency” -
A country shopper

1898
Henley Arthur Bedwell, a Cambridge piano and organ builder claimed £2 from the
Great Eastern Railway for damages sustained by a piano and a case which had been
considerably damaged by wet. The manager of the Cutter inn, Ely said he packed the
piano before it was sent back. He took it to Ely station and deposited in a goods
shed. James Merry, goods foreman at the station, gave evidence as to loading the
piano safely on a truck. A tarpaulin was tied over it. There were some barrels of
beer in the same wagon, but they were not leaking. Harold Pain, an optician,
produced a register proving that there was no rain during the transit of the piano.

THURSDAY
1st October
1973
A close-circuit funeral for an "old friend" will be televised at Cambridge
University. A special eulogy will be delivered and he will be dismembered for
research studies and sent to the scrap heap. The "body" will be the much-loved 10-
year old Titan computer. It has been on light duties since the end of its 18-month
phasing out link with his more powerful replacement £1.7million worth of I.B.M.
370/165. The 370’s memory is being doubled in size & the main disc memory for
holding all the files is now 1,000 million characters

1948
At a meeting of the Cambridgeshire fish fryers' association Mr R. Boggis said that
the shortage of fat would affect agricultural workers. There were people with
travelling fish-frying vans and equipment ready to do the necessary journeys if
only they could get an extra fat allocation. But those vans had to stand idle, as
the necessary fat was denied to the owners. Mr T.W. Wren (St Neots) said whereas
they were working eight vans before the war they had only a sufficient allocation
now to use four. Even during the floods when they were requested to go and help
feed the people they were denied an extra allocation of fat

1923
A beautiful new chapel presented by the family in memory of the late Alderman
William Potter Spalding, one-time mayor of Cambridge, was dedicated by the Bishop
of Ely at All Saints church, Cambridge. The chapel has been formed at the East end
of the South aisle. It comes in wonderfully well here, and supplies a long felt
want to the church. The work has been carried out by Mr William Saint of Cambridge
and the Artificers’ Guild of Cambridge, to the design of Messrs Bodley and Hare,
architects
1898
Cambridge is itself again. The university town has put on its university aspect;
Gown has come back to town, and town has made it welcome. The devotion of Cambridge
graduates to their Alma Mater has not been wanting during the past year. The Vice
Chancellor mentioned the formation of the Cambridge University Association which
has been opened to provide new buildings for the Law and Medical schools. £6,000
have already been subscribed. Cambridge is rich in scholarship; the real need of
the hour is money that will enable the university to keep in the van of scientific
research; to meet the demands that rapid progress in all departments of knowledge
has made upon it.

FRIDAY
2nd October
1973
The hospital service is starting to fall apart at the seams, Ian McLaughlin of the
National Union of Public Employees claimed last night. The number of people on the
waiting list at Cambridge hospitals is up about 30 per cent to 4,121. "People can
stand so much under pressure. It is possible we may get to a stage where people
walk out in sheer frustration, but other hospitals in East Anglia can get staff,"
he said. Low national pay rates, competition for labour during low unemployment and
Cambridge property prices were the key reasons.

1948
The Ministry of Health advised Cambridgeshire Housing committee that the tender of
Cambridge firm amounting to £11,111 should be accepted for the erection of eight
houses at Swavesey, as this was the lowest based on Cambridge rates of pay. The
work by another local firm was based on local Swavesey rates and would have
involved additional expense. The vice-chairman said, “Not one foundation has been
laid. Lowest tenders were accepted but some builders, for reasons unknown, found
they had forgotten some items which they should have included, and they refused to
go on with the houses on the prices they tendered. Sites are ready, plans passed
and 1,000 people are waiting for 102 homes. Either the building industry is
overloaded with work, or they want too much money for building our houses"

1922
Sir, I wish to call attention to the great nuisance and obstruction caused by the
bicycles outside the Perse School in Panton Street, Cambridge. At about 10 minutes
to 9 there must be at least a score of girls waiting, every one with her cycle
facing the door and blocking the pavement. Surely the doors could be opened
earlier, or else the scholars could be made to form up properly in a queue round
Union road – A ratepayer

1898
Melbourn rural district council were told that Mr Ingold had examined the deep
well at Chishall and reported that he could see nothing to account for the water
being impure, accepting from rust from chains and buckets. They noted that
provision was being made by the owners of the Wilkes estate for increasing the
supply of water in the existing reservoirs. They did not think it advisable to
proceed with the Bull pond scheme as they believed that no satisfactory permanent
supply of water for drinking can be obtained from any ponds or surface water, and
that it is now necessary to make arrangements to provide a supply from a public
well

LOOKING BACK

MONDAY
5th October
1973
The trapping know-how of an obliging Royal Engineer is helping Waterbeach Parish
Council clear up a plague of rabbits in their burial ground. After a variety of
remedies had failed, Sapper Nigel Packer, from the neighbouring barracks, took a
hand and set two of his own ferrets on the job. And already the ferrets have paid
their way in fighting the nuisance caused by the rabbits chewing up graveside
flowers and burrowing beneath the gravestones and surrounds. Sapper Packer's
expertise is a welcome relief to villagers, who have enjoyed a long history of
community service by the Royal Engineers

1948
The 1,200 villagers of Caldecote, Dry Drayton and Hardwick are "living on the edge
of a volcano" and at any time a grave outbreak of disease might overtake them. So
said Dr A. Morgan, M.O.H. to Chesterton rural district council at a public inquiry
into plans to borrow £27,125 to defray the cost of works of a water supply for
these parishes, At present the council have to cart something like 6,000 gallons of
water a week to these parishes to supplement the meagre well supplies. At
Caldecote, as a temporary measure, stand-pipe supplies have been provided at some
points. The rest of the village was dependent upon stored rainwater and supplies
carted by the Council

1923
Under the Government's immigration scheme, the Cambridge Juvenile Unemployment
Bureau has sent out to Australia five boys. The first of these has return home a
interesting letter in which he says: “It is a pleasure to me to write and tell you
my experiences in Aussie, and if you are the means of inducing any other young
fellow to come to the land of sunshine, it would please me more. J. and I have
stuck together. We were in the same cabin in the boat, which held eight bunks. Ours
was a slow boat. It took us over two months to reach Australia. I have been at Moss
Vail over 10 months and am never short of a few pounds. I think it is a pity that
more boys do not come from Cambridge. You have such a number of unemployed. Of
course one has to work fairly hard but work has done me a power of good. I would
not hesitate one minute to recommend any young fellow to come to Australia”

1898
The annual report of the Cambridge public Free Library has been issued. Under
competent management and the able direction of Mr Pink, it has continuously added
to its resources. It is now as well equipped as any one could desire. It has a
reference library and in the Shakespeare and dramatic collections a special
features of great interest and real value. Moreover there is the branch library at
Mill road with 6,600 volumes and during the past year reading rooms have been
opened at East road and Castle end. The people who enjoy these facilities of access
to the best literature may well be envied by those who do not

TUESDAY
6th October

1973
Tolly, the East Anglia brewers may sell off their £1 million Star Brewery site in
Newmarket Road, Cambridge within the next three years. The 4½acre site includes the
brewery buildings and the Burleigh Arms public house. The old Star Brewery stopped
production last year and the buildings have been used as a storage depot. It is
understood the directors have been considering various possibilities for the
Newmarket Road site, which is bounded roughly by Auckland Road, Midsummer Common
and Parsonage Street. One includes building luxury flats, a hotel and public house
on the site. "There is no possibility of us leaving Cambridge. It is a very
important place for us", said Tolly's managing director
1948
Fears that the river flowing at Cambridge's famous "Backs" would be turned into a
"stinking sewer" by the discharge of waste water were expressed at a meeting of the
Federation of Anglers. The chairman said: "Last April your river resembled an open
sewer. We saw this discoloration and received all sorts of assurances about it -
but what were these assurances worth?" The secretary held aloft a bottle of whisky
coloured liquid which he said was a sample taken from the river Riddy, a stream
which runs into the Cam near Hauxton pond. He said the discoloration had been
caused by the seepage of yellow dye and the smell had been likened to creosote

1923
The Cambridge Dairyman's Association report says they had many cases of “pirate”
traders and “cut" prices. The position today is that the farmers demand a high
price for their milk and the public equally unanimous in their demand for cheap
milk. It was to the public advantage that they would be buying milk 1d a quart
cheaper than last year. Mr Arnold said: “We only want one milk - the best; and we
want to cater for the poor as well as for the rich”. The best milk was at a
prohibitive price for the poor. It was up to them to deliver a pure milk obtainable
by the poor at a nominal sum.

1898
A service of thanksgiving for the harvest was held at Grantchester. The beautiful
old church, made even more attractive by the decorations which embellished every
part available of the edifice, was crowded with a congregation whose fervent
praises were evidence of a full recognition of the nature of the service. The
musical portion was rendered eminently beautiful by the employment of a string
orchestra. The nine candelabra by which the church is lighted were hung with small
branches of cereals. The mode of lighting the church, resulting in a perfect
diffusion of light, enhanced the appearance of an altogether artistically perfect
display

WEDNESDAY

7th October

1973

It is one thing criticising your own husband, but how would you feel if you had to
sit and listen to other people hurling abuse at him? It is something which faces
the wives of Cambridge United footballers. The wives do get upset, particularly
when they feel the criticism is unfair or when they know their husband's play is
going through a bad patch. The footballers are idolised. "You know the girls make a
bee-line for the players", commented one wife. The wives just have to learn to live
with it and trust their menfolk. "I feel very proud of him", said another. And that
is true of all the wives. Carefully they store away match reports in scrap books
and polish the trophies.

1948
Sixty-four years service as a cab driver is a fact of which 79-year-old Mr George
Clark of Gloucester Terrace, Cambridge, can be justly proud. It was one day in 1884
when the young George, at the age of 15 first drove a cab for his father. Finding
he liked the occupation he continued with it and has driven for one firm, Easy's
for the past 44 years. In his younger days he lived in that gay period at the end
of the last century when there was no such thing a mechanised vehicles and the cabs
were the old four-wheel horse-drawn type and there were only ten or eleven
"cabbies" altogether. The only time he was not driving a hansom or a taxi was
during the South African War and the 1914-18 war.

1923
Representatives of the various drainage districts through which runs the Old West
River assembled at County Hall, Cambridge, to consider a scheme for cleansing the
river and repairing the banks. The work was one of the unemployment schemes
proposed by the Ouse Drainage Board. Mr A.E. Wright said the river had been in a
deplorable condition since 1917. Captain Matthews said that in April 1922 the river
was surveyed and was very much stilted up, and the banks were 18 inches below the
maximum flood level, so that it was a very serious matter.

1898
Cambridge town council has issued an additional report on the proposed new
Guildhall buildings. The accommodation will be considerably increased and will
include in the basement, additional coal store, public lavatories for men and women
and three new storerooms. On the ground floor a greatly improved entrance with
grand staircase, cloak rooms, retiring rooms, two new public meeting rooms, kitchen
and offices. Facing Union Street three new shops will be provided. On the first
floor the Aldermen's parlour will be enlarged and improved and there will be rooms
for the town clerk as well as a Mayor's reception room and a new enlarged council
chamber. The cost is estimated at £38,000

THURSDAY
8th October
1973
Students at Cambridgeshire College of Arts and Technology today began searching for
a hall in an emergency plan to beat what they claim is the city's worst-ever
shortage of rented accommodation. The situation at the Technical College, where
there are more than 1,000 students who have to live in rented accommodation in the
city, has been aggravated by the failure of a plan to buy up houses for use as
hostels. A housing association was set up earlier this year and agreement reached
with a building society over 100 mortgages. But then came the building societies'
financial difficulties and the whole plan has been shelved

1948
Cambridge Trades council is backing an effort being made by local industry to
obtain additional houses. The initiative in this matter has been taken by
Marshall's Flying School. Pre-war they employed 3-400 people. At the war's end they
had 3,700 on the payroll. They had purchased 7 houses and had converted an office
block to flats to house a further 12 workers but it had reached a limit to which it
could tie up capital in housing. There was a problem of workers lodged n the town
who had families elsewhere. Added to this the regional Ministry Headquarters being
stationed in Cambridge had created a demand for girls as clerks and typists

1923
On Thursday the Central Cinema once again opens its doors, and another step towards
a brighter Cambridge will be achieved. The main scheme of alteration has been the
heightening of the roof, the removal of the pillars and improvement of the
ventilation schemes. The absence of the pillars, which at times were a source of
discomfort to some of the audience, will alone reconcile patrons to their long
period of exclusion. The decorative scheme is entirely new and is based in shades
of coffee and dark walnut, relieved with Wedgwood blue, an effective combination
which is continued in the huge lampshades, which were always such a feature of the
decoration. Another big feature is a new screen and projection which has been
carried out by the Gaumont company. The projection is now situated about half way
down the hall, and not at the back as previously
1898
A fire in the daytime is infinitely easier to cope with than one of equal
dimensions at night, when the circumstances are all in favour of the destroying
element and against those who grapple with it. Messrs A W Redding and son,
builders, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, have been unfortunate victims of
circumstance by which their workshops are practically gutted. Mr Redding was
sitting quietly at dinner when a man rushed in with the news that the workshops had
taken fire. He had once hastened to the building and seeing that there was some
cause for alarm, communicated with the Volunteer Fire Brigade. Within a very few
minutes the hose cart was on the scene. Under the command of Captain Greef no less
than 20 fireman assembled. In the meantime two police constables had taken the
police station reel to the premises and afforded material assistance in getting the
fire under

FRIDAY

9th October

1973

Cambridge sank deeper into a planning quagmire last night as opponents in the sub-
regional study row tossed words at each other from their offices in Manchester and
London. Down in the jungles of mid-Anglia the News intercepted and sifted the
communiqués and tried, despairingly to bridge the 184-mile gap between the
protagonists. And when it was said and done it proved far less difficult to plot
yesterday's progress in the Middle East war and to assess Mr Heath's Phase 3
counter-inflation plans than to determine who was making progress in Cambridge's
shopping centre controversy

1948

Sir - The time is over-due for drawing attention to the scandalous conditions of
many of our ancient rights-of-way and footpaths. From Bury Farm, Stapleford a
public footpath leads across a fine stretch of upland to Babraham. During the war
the stone and iron bridge was removed where the path led across the Babraham river
and neither of the parish councils have taken any action about it. I suggest that
every village school should construct a home-made map of the village on which was
delineated every public path. The old inhabitants would supply the necessary
information. It should be the business of the teacher to perambulate these paths at
least once a year, in the company of the scholars - "Countryman"

1923
A fish hawker of Cavendish Road, Cambridge, was summoned before making a violent
outcry, to the annoyance of inhabitants at Sedgwick Street. P.C.Barrell said he
heard defendant shouting in a loud voice, "Fine fresh cod fish, haddocks, bloaters,
fine fresh herrings and fruit." Witness had received complaints and stopped
defendant who said he knew what he could shout and witness could report him if he
liked. Cross-examined: He was not aware that a petition had been signed by 66
people stating they were not annoyed. Mr Pryor submitted there was no case to
answer. There must be proof of annoyance to somebody. The case was dismissed .

1898
Thrifty wives, hopeful maidens, and even thoughtless bachelors assembled in large
numbers when an exhibition under the auspices of the Cambridge University and Town
Gas Light Company was opened. Some disappointment was occasioned by the
announcement that Miss Richmond would not be able to give her lecture owing to the
fact that her cooking utensils had not arrived, but as a solace a male assistant
gave an illustration of how a bachelor’s breakfast could be cooked in 12 minutes on
one burner, and with a very small expenditure of gas. An attractive feature of the
show is the penny in the slot cookers. These should prove a boon to the working
classes, a single penny releasing enough gas to keep a single burner alight for 5½
hours.

LOOKING BACK

MONDAY
12th October

1973
More than 100 students from the technical college who are squatting in Owlstone
Croft spent last night moving in food and other supplies. Occupation of the
building, which has been empty for almost four years, followed a meeting in protest
at the lack of student accommodation in Cambridge. Owlstone Croft became the target
of criticism as officials pointed out that the Department of Health are now
planning to demolish the fully-equipped hostel after refusing to sell it to the
college. After half and hour's discussion about 200 students left the college to
occupy the building

1948
Many in Cambridge and county will join us in deeply regretting the death of Lieut-
Col Frederick Newton Drake Digby who will be remembered chiefly for his years of
devoted service to the Territorial Army. He took over command of the Cambridgeshire
Regiment in 1936 and held this post until the embodiment of the Territorial Army in
August 1939. These years in which war clouds were looming were important in the
Regiment's history and it was the training it received then which was to stand it
in good stead during the grim conflict and ordeals that were to follow. Col Digby
was unable to accompany it on active service, but was among the first to greet his
former comrades at the docks when they returned home from the Far East. He played a
prominent part in the welcome home celebrations that followed victory.

1923
Sir, - May I draw your attention to three great points of danger in Great Shelford?
One is by the war memorial, the other at Pumfreys corner and Little Shelford. To a
newcomer the speed of some of the cars is most alarming. On Monday my daughter's
Alsatian puppy was knocked down by a car going at great speed. I hear there were
some women in the car, but can only suppose they were the thoughtless present-day
variety without thought or feeling for anyone, or they would have asked the driver
to stop. During the short time we have been here another dog has been killed and
two men knocked down opposite the war memorial - E.S. Adutt

1898
The Town Council of Cambridge has asked the burgesses whether they are of a mind
to make a beginning at once with the extension of the Guildhall, and with the
building of a new front, and the ratepayers have given their answer. There is no
ambiguity about that answer; the “No” is emphatic enough. The attendance at the
Guildhall was so large that those who know by experience how difficult it is to get
the public to take an active interest in public questions must have been surprised.

TUESDAY

13th October
1973

Partly-completed dungarees are delivered to your house. Your job is to machine

stitch the bib and braces, insert elastic into the waistband which has to be
stitched and gathered, sew on a pocket. How much would you expect to be paid? This
was the task given to a young Huntingdon mother who answered a clothing factory's
advertisement for home workers. It took her five hours to complete two pairs, then
she abandoned the venture. Providing her own machine, electricity and thread she
decided the work was "exploitation". The payment was 10p a pair.

1948
"There appears to be no practical method of overcoming the dirt nuisance from the
Gas works" said the chairman of Cambridge public health committee following an
inspection. "In the region of the retort house it was uncomfortably hot, even
though I stood as far away as the wall would allow. When the retort is reloaded
with coal a considerable amount of smoke and flame is produced prior to the retorts
being closed. The suggestion that screens be placed is impractical and would create
intolerable conditions of work for the men". He said the dust nuisance was due to
the quality of the coal

1923
The long-waited for reopening of the Central Cinema, Hobson Street, Cambridge,
took place in the presence of a good attendance. This popular house of amusement
had so established itself with the lovers of the silent drama that its temporary
withdrawal from the ranks of amusement caterers has caused no little concern. Not a
few patrons felt that if a particular film did not altogether appeal to them, there
was always a good orchestra to listen to, and this is doubtless one of the secrets
of the Central’s success. Under the renewed direction of Miss Norma Thomson the
orchestra is better than ever, and some distinctly appropriate music was played
with skill and efficiency.

1898
The eccentricity of a horse at Chesterton last night caused its driver and a fare
some alarm. It bolted along Chesterton lane at a furious rate, resisting all the
efforts of the driver to get it under control. The animal made a tour of Old
Chesterton in record time and returned by the Milton road. At this point the driver
came to the conclusion it was quite useless trying to hold the horse in any longer
and advised the gentleman inside the cab to “quit”. He took a flying leap into the
darkness and grazed his face somewhat severely. The driver fell off the box and
the off wheel passed over his legs. Continuing his career the horse came into
collision with a gatepost at Northampton street which knocked it on its
hindquarters

WEDNESDAY

14th October

1973

A Cambridge councillor told the city council meeting he hoped there would be some
money left over for books after meeting the £490,000 bill for fitting out the new
central library in Lion Yard. But Councillor Neville Auker said; "We have been in
need of an up-to-date library in Cambridge for many years. The staff at the present
library do enormously well. But for a city of Cambridge's standing the library has
long been a disgrace"

1948
Premier Travel told the Traffic Commissioners that in August 1947 they had acquired
the business of a firm at Barley who, pre-war, were authorised to operate
excursions from a number of points. Now they were seeking that the people of
Bassingbourn, Guilden Morden area should have the benefit of coastal and
recreational facilities for the theatre at Peterborough and for Newmarket races.
The adjutant at Bassingbourn R.A.F. station said they were a Commonwealth station
and a good many of the people there were from the Dominions. The matter of
sightseeing was of great importance to them.

1923
Alfred Deines, organ grinder, was summoned for making "a noise to the annoyance of
inhabitants” in Orchard Street, Cambridge. P.C. Willis stated he heard him shouting
"water cress" and told him that in view of complaints he would be reported.
Defendants took his barrow and went away. He was fined 2s.6d.

1898
The “burgling" fraternity are already on the warpath. In pursuing his unworthy
calling at Chesterton some impudent member of the fraternity paid a visit to a
house in Victoria Road but got little, if anything, for his trouble. The family
left home having previously secured the doors and windows. On their return they
were alarmed at finding the front door bolted on the inside. This aroused suspicion
and gave rise to the surmise that the house had been invaded by burglars. This
belief was confirmed by the movements of the depradator in his haste to beat a
retreat by the back part of the premises. By means of wax matches, the debris of
which was strewn about the room, Mr Burglar had found his way upstairs and examined
the contents of several drawers. It can hardly be imagined that the intentions of
the housebreaker were strictly honest and honourable. Probably had he not been
disturbed he might have got clear with a considerable amount of booty

THURSDAY
15th October
1973
There are still a lot of young people around who remember the Fifties, those golden
days when Bill Haley was top of the charts and the permissive society had not been
heard of. More than 40 of them got together in Gt Chesterford's village hall to
celebrate the 26th birthday of an Ickleton teddy boy. Most of them wore the "teds"
uniform of drainpipe trousers, long jackets, bootlace ties, slicked-back Tony
Curtis hairdo's. They jived until midnight to the music of the Bluebird's Rock 'n'
Roll Band. One said, "The only time he doesn't wear his teddy boy clothes is at
work, but even there he wears old creepers and one ear-ring" He added "Whatever
anybody says I don't think there has ever been anything smarted than ‘drains’"

1948
Cambridge Housing committee were told that 156 houses on the Birdwood Road estate
were complete, but the flats were held up through shortage of labour. Work on the
Green Park Estate was extremely slow. Another disappointment concerned the 100
permanent aluminium bungalows on the Church End estate, Cherry Hinton. The weight
of a travelling crane which had to be used to lower the houses on to the
foundations had done considerable damage to the newly-laid drains

1923
Major Stanley raised the question of motor cyclists. A good many ladies and
gentlemen didn't realise they ought to have a proper silencer. He did not think
that 10 per cent of the people had one. There was one “fiend" who went through
Trumpington about 11 o’clock at night and made enough noise to rouse the dead. Dr
Ellis agreed and said that in his village the speed was something terrific. They
went through at 60 miles an hour and seemed to be proud of it. The chief constable
said he thought he knew who the offenders were

1898
The photographer who is also an artist has a great advantage over the photographer
who is merely a mechanic. One may realise this very clearly by paying a visit to
the studio at St Mary's Passage, Cambridge, of Mr Clement A. Shaw. His first love
was painting but in his portrait work he found the advantage of being able to take
a photograph of the subject, in that tedious sittings could often be curtailed. His
studios are covered with specimens of his work. There are photographs in all
processes - opals, miniatures, pastels and oil paintings. There are several
pictures painted on an enlarged scale from photographs which are very meritorious
indeed

FRIDAY

16th October

1973

An appeal for special heavy-duty breakdown equipment went out after an articulated
lorry overturned at Mitcham's Corner, Cambridge - and the wrecked vehicle and its
scattered load were still there six hours later. The lorry overturned outside
Wallis' garage showroom at 6.40 am. But the major equipment of local garages was
already committed to other things and later the army sent some from Waterbeach. The
accident caused extensive delays - at one time there was a queue right back to
Washpit Lane, Girton, more than a mile from the city boundary on Huntingdon Road

1948
Cambridge Town Council considered an application from Messrs Chivers and sons to
use a site on Pound Hill as a milk pasteurisation and bottling centre. They had
been encouraged to settle there by a former Medical Officer of Health perturbed
about the condition of milk handling and distribution in Cambridge. But Councillor
James thought the site was not a suitable place for a factory. Councillor Peel
thought the vicinity should be kept for building small houses in scale with the old
houses nearby and with the little old church of St Peter

1923
An Avro biplane was taking two passengers over Cambridge yesterday afternoon and
when returning to the licenced aerodrome on Barton round, the under-carriage fouled
the hedge, causing the machine to fall almost vertically on its nose. The pilot was
slightly injured. The passengers were uninjured and motored the pilot to the Evelyn
nursing home where he was detained. The machine, which stands in the field in an
almost vertical position, appears to have suffered but little damage other than
that sustained by the under-carriage

1898
The Church of a small parish between Cambridge and Bishop’s Stortford was to have
been the scene of a pretty little wedding on Saturday, but, alas for the bride, the
spouse failed to put in an appearance at the Church. The “happy man" hailed from
London, and should have arrived several hours before the ceremony. It was thought
that he had missed the train, but the next not bringing him, faces began to wear
anxious looks. Every inquiry was instituted in the village, but nothing could be
heard of him, and the only alternative was to abandon the marriage. The
bridegroom's behaviour up to the present has not been explained. We should add that
the bride is the daughter of a most respected tradesmen, and greatly esteemed among
her friends
LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
October 19th

1973
News that Royston could finally have a new sewage works in three years was greeted
by town councillors with relief tempered with scepticism. It is 21 years since a
new works was called for in 1952. In recent years the council have lived through a
saga of complaints from farmers about crop damage due to sewage flooding, petitions
from tenants about smells from the old works at Coombes Hole, and increasing
difficulties in dealing with the quantity of sewage from the town which culminated
with a brake on further housing development when the works could no longer cope.
But Bassingbourn village have complained about losing land for the scheme

1948
The suggestion that Cambridge might become pioneer in a home care scheme for
hospital patients was made by Dr Banks, principal medical officer to the ministry
of health. "Quite a number of patients in hospitals need not really be there. Some
are detained in hospital because they cannot be nursed at home, some even because
they have no suitable home to go to. Others have relatively minor ailments which
could equally well be treated at home if adequate home nursing facilities were
available. Others are incurable patients for whom the hospital can do little.
People get better in their own homes who had lost the will to live nursed in
hospital". He added, "We have in Cambridge all the resources available to build up
a comprehensive service of care for the patients which could prove a model to the
rest of the world"

1923
At Romsey ward Labour Party meeting Councillor Briggs said there were several
"deadweights" on the council - men who had been put into safe seats. He was sure
many of them could not stand on a public platform and speak for 10 minutes on any
municipal matter, and they came to council meetings without agendas very often, and
did not know what was being talked about. He would say with certainty that the
Labour Party had done more in the last six or seven years for the furtherance of
general welfare of Cambridge than had been done in the present previous 20 or 30
years

1898
We have to record the death of Mr John Francis Clark, the celebrated racing judge
at Newmarket. He had for 40 years filled the office of judge at Newmarket, Epsom,
and most of the great racing fixtures in the southern circuit. It was notorious
that he never made a bet, that he entertained the greatest aversion to "plungers"
and that in his latter years he looked on with amazement as he saw houses built and
gardens laid out by trainers and jockeys at Newmarket who seemed to him to be of a
different breed from their humble predecessors remembered by him in his youth

TUESDAY

20th October

1973
A £13,000 facelift for Mill Road branch library in Cambridge has been shelved by
the city council to leave their architects free to concentrate on housing schemes.
The Library Committee were forced to postpone the modernisation plan after hearing
that it would be caught in the Government's current economic policy to cut back
local council's capital spending. Mill Road was to have been the first of three
branch libraries in the city to be modernised with new lighting, decorations and
layout. Those at Rock Road and Milton Road were to follow. Members agreed to
contact the new Cambridgeshire County Council, who will take over libraries in
April, to ask them to consider the three schemes sympathetically

1948
The "long haired cranks" who want to put an end to hunting, shooting, coursing,
fishing and other blood sports were attacked by members of the Cambs Agricultural
Society. Proposing that a donation of £100 be given to the British Field Sports
Society to support their campaign in opposing the Bill shortly to come before the
House of Commons urging the abolition of all blood sports, Mr P.B. Grain asked,
"Why should these longhaired cranks who are supporting the Bill dictate to us
people in the country about what we should do by way of sport and recreation"

1923
Cambridge music lovers can never complain that their wants are not catered for. A
new departure will be the introduction for the first time of the Negro spiritual
and plantation songs which have long held such a prominent place in the musical
life of London. The remarkable thing is that their introduction to Cambridge has
been so long delayed. Dressed in the costumes of the period, Miss Edna Thomas,
gives her audiences, surfeited did with Negro syncopations, real plantation songs
born in the days of slavery.

1898
Sir - for many years I have constantly visited the Mill road cemetery, Cambridge,
and feel quite certain that if the present cemetery were made into a general and
open place of burial it would last for many years. When the time arrives to provide
a new cemetery, why not use that which is situated on the Huntingdon Road, which
has a field adjoining sufficient to make a very large cemetery. I know that the
Castle End hill is an obstacle, but an extra horse could be used to assist in
drawing the hearse over this spot. This would be far preferable to going through
Barnwell – R.R.

WEDNESDAY
21st October
1973
South Cambridgeshire District Council have agreed to enforce fire laws which could
mean the "death knell" for many village halls. Councillor Watts declared: "There
are places of entertainment which do not match up 100 per cent to what the fire
authorities would insist upon. It will mean the death knell for our older, less
prosperous village halls". Surely it was better for halls 90 per cent safe to
remain under the control of local people than to be closed - some of them never to
be opened again. But Coun. Powles stressed; "It only wants one person to lose their
life unnecessarily in a fire for us to be in a very serious situation with the
public. The laws will be applied as sympathetically as they can be"

1948
When the Queen stood before the Vice Chancellor in Cambridge Senate House today to
receive the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Law she was not only a Queen receiving an
Honour but also a symbol of the passing of a 700-years-old "tradition" in the
university. For, during the whole of the University's history no Queen - and no
other woman - has ever before had a degree conferred upon her, because until the
recent changes in the statutes giving women full membership the conferring of such
an honour was not possible. As the Queen entered the Senate House there was a burst
of cheering and clapping. Her scarlet Doctor's robes and her black velvet doctor's
cap, made a charming ensemble with the Cambridge blue shade of her dress

1923
The news that Papyrus had been beaten by six lengths at Belmont Park, near New
York, was received in Newmarket with disappointment. Of course there are excuses to
be made for the horse. The voyage was against him in the first place. But perhaps
his greatest handicap was that he ran in English plates, admirable for racing on
turf, but not for the unfamiliar dirt track. The American horses had a special kind
of shoe, which by long experience they have found best for a heavy muddy track. But
there was a very strong hope that the Newmarket horse would overcome all his
difficulties

1898
Mr Langford, of Newmarket Road, Cambridge sustained serious injuries as the result
of an attempt to stop a runaway horse. The infuriated animal, which was attached to
a cart, took fright on King’s Parade and continued its mad career in the direction
of King's College. On reaching the college entrance, the runaway attracted the
attention of Mr Langford who rushed up, and seizing the reigns, succeeded in
bringing the horse to a standstill. The suddenness with which the animal was
brought up caused it to swerve and one of the wheels of the vehicle passed over his
face, which was very badly cut.

THURSDAY

22nd October

1973

Laser-Scan Laboratories Ltd, a science-based Cambridge firm set up four years ago,
made history when they became the first tenants of the new Cambridge Science Park
this week. The Trinity College scheme is being developed on land off Milton road.
The Senior Bursar, Dr John Bradfield said they believed it was the first science
park in England. "We are 99 per cent certain on signing a contract with a second
tenant and we have two more in advanced stages of negotiation", he said. "The idea
was first mooted four years ago by the Mott committee and I think we have done very
well to get this far in four years". He said the college were looking for a
commercial return on their venture, but not necessarily in the usual financial
expectations of recovering costs in a given number of years

1948
As the Queen left Girton College yesterday evening, following her visit there, many
students gathered in the drive made appropriate if unorthodox use of the gowns they
now wear as symbols of their recently won rights to be full members of the
University. They took off their gowns and waved them in farewell to the Royal lady,
who in the morning had symbolised those new rights as she received in the Senate
House the first degree to be conferred upon a woman in University history

1923
Sir, - In some provincial towns the local authorities have adopted a scheme
whereby tenants are given the option of purchasing the houses they occupy, upon
slightly increased rent-purchase terms. Cambridge town council will soon have some
hundreds of houses under their control, and it would surely be of advantage if some
such arrangements were come to. Some hundreds of houses will eventually be erected
on the Chesterton Hall site. Even now one cannot view the place without being
struck with the depressing uniformity of all the houses - all one design, all one
size, all one colour - not forgetting the flap over the front door. Considering
that the council employ architects one would have expected something more varied to
relieve the horrid monotony – “Chestertonian”

1898
Today was the first occasion on which the magistrates heard application from
parents who claimed exemption for all their children for vaccination, to which they
contacted on conscientious grounds. One applicant said he had one or two children
fall very ill after being vaccinated. One child was strong and healthy before
vaccination, but she was never well after it, and died when about five years old of
diphtheria. He knew of several other cases of a similar character. He was
vaccinated himself when about 20 years of age, and have never felt so well since.

FRIDAY

23rd October

1973
Mr Harold Wilson stirred the Labour Party workers of East Anglia into a fiery
fighting mood at their regional rally in Cambridge. The audience of about 1,000
people gave him a standing ovation. Mr Wilson raised cheers with promises of
pensions of £10 for a single person, £16 for a couple, strict controls on big
business and action to secure the public ownership of land, especially for public
amenities, schools and hospitals. His speech contained many personal swipes at Mr
Heath. He said: "The truth is that while the three great social priorities -
housing, education and hospitals - are being cut back, office building and property
speculation runs on unchecked"

1948
Everyone will agree that Cambridge is very "full". The railways have had a
particularly busy time. "We always prepare for a heavy October", said one official,
"but the amount of luggage this term has been abnormal, especially bicycles, which
are not easy things to handle in bulk". There is now the record number of 7,500
undergraduates in residence, a thousand more than this time last year. This is
accounted for to some extent by the admission of Newnham and Girton to the
University, but there are something like 400 more men. "This is a peak year",
according to Mr E. Welbourne of Emmanuel, who does not think that a major decrease
can be expected until 1951-2

1923
Sir - Permit me to enter a strong protest against Cambridge town council
“improvements”. Take the following, with all of which we are now threatened. The
detestable proposal to improve St Mary's Street by lopping off nine feet of church
yard; the very pleasant little old world Emmanuel St to be made banal by altering
its lines and proportions; Coe fen to be utterly ruined for ever by cutting a new
road for motors. And who in their right mind would dream of building public baths
in so outlying and unattractive a suburb as Gwydir street. - Delta

1898
Four travelling hawkers were summoned for unlawfully driving a four wheel van on
to the village green at Cottenham, contrary to the by-laws which had been posted in
various parts of the village, including the village green. Lawyer for the
defendants said it had been the custom to use the green on Sundays from time
immemorial at the time of the village feast. He also pointed out that the
defendants could neither read nor write. The magistrates said they were bound to
support the parish council and fined defendants 10s.6d.

LOOKING BACK

MONDAY
26th October
1973
Huntingdon's county ambulance service is being forced to run its vehicles into the
ground to keep up with demand, and the situation is likely to get worse next year.
Extra work is having to be put in by the mechanics to keep vehicles on the road
because two new ambulances had to be sent back to British Leyland with brake
trouble. One is still out of action and another had to be taken out again last
week. Some of the remaining ambulances are wearing out faster than expected and
will have to be replaced next year - and there is a nine-month waiting period on
new orders

1948
Addenbrooke's Hospital Governors agreed that the pay bed system for private out-
patient should operate from November. Regarding steps to reduce the waiting lists
the vice-chairman said, "The whole trouble in this area is the question of shortage
of nurses and accommodation. Until we can increase both it is very difficult to see
how we can get the waiting lists down". Statistics reveal 1,893 normal patients and
12 private patients were awaiting admission to Addenbrooke's. Last year it was
1,166 normal and 60 private patients.

1923
Ely Urban Council was told that the death rate in the principal places had been
much higher than that in the villages. Mr Laxton said “That is because they drink
dyke water in the villages”. (Laughter). The chairman said 104 fatal cases of
cancer had been reported. He thought if anything could be brought to light as to
the prevention of this dreadful disease was concerned, it should be done. Two
matters that needed attention were the bad sewerage and bad housing. There were 146
houses in the district not fit for habitation.

1898
The Rector of Buckland has refused to read the full burial service over the body
of a man who was killed at Royston fair after he made an attempt to get upon one of
horses on a steam roundabout while it was in motion. Failing in the attempt, he
fell violently off the roundabout to the ground and was killed. That which weighed
with the Rector in refusing to read the whole of the burial service was a doubt as
to whether the poor man was sober when he met with his accident.

TUESDAY
27th October
1973
Ely RAF Hospital may be developed as one of the three main Service hospitals in the
country. The report of an inquiry into Defence Medical Services says each service
should have one major hospital of up to 400 beds. In the case of the RAF it
suggests that either to Ely hospital or the one at Halton, Bucks., would be
suitable for this kind of development. Ely RAF Hospital was opened in 1940 and
since then has been considerably extended. For a number of years it has also
admitted civilian patients and it is reckoned that about 30 per cent of people
treated there are civilians. Last year it treated 6,000 in-patients and just over
31,000 out-patients
1948
One amusing incident of the Queen's visit to Cambridge, certainly not intended for
the record, was the rather surprising use to which several of the dons were seen to
put their gowns whilst waiting to be presented at the Newnham college gates. Having
inadvertently trodden on the red carpet they were observed hastily wiping off their
footmarks with the corner of their gowns!

1923
Cambridge public health committee recommended the council make an order declaring
the fried fish trade to be an offensive business. But Councillor Few said the
council had power to insist there should be proper appliances for taking away the
smell. Was it a question of the district where the shops were? Was it a case of no
objections in New Street, but when it came to Chesterton it was offensive. He
believed that in the case of the fried fish shop in Victoria Road it was the
property owners that were backing opposition because they were afraid their
property would suffer. Fried fish shops are the restaurants of the poor. If these
shops were closed many people would be prevented from getting a hot meal

1898
A Stretham agricultural labourer met his death at land each by having the life
literally crushed out of him by the wheel of a traction engine. He fell from the
steersman's man's step over the side of the engine, and the enormous wheel passed
over his body, death being almost instantaneous. The foreman and traction engine
driver said he was engaged in putting a piece of coal on fire and when he lifted
his head he saw the deceased man's legs go over the top of the wheel. The boy who
was walking in front of the engine at the time of the accident, said his attention
was first attracted by the engine stopping. He looked back and saw the deceased
lying on the ground, the wheel having passed over him. The roads were smooth at
that spot

WEDNESDAY
28th October
1973
De Vere have finally abandoned their plans to build a 5-star 200-bedroom hotel at
Cambridge's Mount Pleasant - Huntingdon Road junction. Instead the company have
suggested to planners that the site could be used for a four-storey block of
residential flats with a restaurant, showrooms, offices and a bank included in the
development. The company say it is "no longer economically viable" to go ahead with
the hotel project which has been on the stocks for four years. It is being
suggested that the originally estimated building costs of around £2 million has now
risen to about £3.8 million

1948
By the death of William Hines Odams the river Cam rowing fraternity has lost
possibly its most colourful personality whose record is unprecedented in the
history of local rowing. Stroking his first winning crew in 1887 he was recognised
as the greatest oarsman that the town has produced. He never trained for any event
and smoked his pipe up to the very commencement of the races, in which he continued
to be engaged for upwards of 30 years

1923
Cambridge public health committee have asked the surveyor to prepare plans for the
erection in Gwydir street of a building containing about 18 slipper and two douche
baths. Dr Dalton said there was great need for washing baths in Cambridge. Three
quarters of the houses in the town were without baths, and he believed there was
only one place in the town - a hairdresser’s - where there were baths available for
the use of the public. There were 20,000 people in Petersfield, St Matthews and
Romsey town districts alone. This was not a luxury, but a necessity.
1898
The normal quiet of Cambridge was interrupted by serious conflagration in Fitzroy
Street which proved the most destructive to property that has occurred for many
years. Cambridge is happily furnished with ample means of notifying outbreaks of
fire, and it was through one of the electric alarms erected in various parts of the
borough for immediate communication with the central fire station that the resident
night watchman received an intimidation that a fire was in progress. Telegraphic
communications were without delay dispatched to the competent director of the
Volunteer Fire Brigade and the majority of the corps. The wires running to those
residing in and about Mill Road were unfortunately out of order, and seven of the
willing firemen were therefore debarred from taking an early part in the work

THURSDAY
29th October
1973
The Dalai Lama held the attention of a 1,000-strong Cambridge audience last night
while he talked for almost an hour on Buddhist doctrine - mostly in Tibetan.
Hundreds of people queued for nearly an hour outside the Senate House. They filled
every seat, crowded four-deep in the side galleries and were left clinging to the
outside window sills to get a view of "Kundun" - The Presence. In his crimson and
saffron robes His Holiness delivered his address in a casual, conversational style,
occasionally breaking into English to drive home a point. After his address he
walked through the Cambridge traffic to Trinity college where he was due to attend
a buffet supper

1948
The "really crying need" for the provision of residential homes for old people,
both for the infirm and the bedridden, and for elderly people with no one to look
after them was emphasised by the Bishop of Ely. A special type of "short stay" home
would alleviate the otherwise never-ceasing strain on relatives looking after old
people. Nursing annexes attached to hospitals were cited as a possible solution of
the filling up of hospital beds by elderly permanent patients

1923
The seventh bell at Great St Mary's Church, Cambridge, which was cracked on
armistice night by some over-enthusiastic revellers, has just been returned from
the founders. It now inclined on a pedestal in the nave of the Church awaiting re-
fixing in the tower, and there it will stay until paid for. The cost of taking
down, re-casting and re-fixing is close on £100. The bell was originally cast in
1667, and recast in 1723.

1898
The population of the town of Cambridge has increased very much during the past 10
years, especially in the Petersfield and Romsey town area. Up till 10 years ago the
chancel of the present St Barnabas Church was the only place of worship in the
extensive district. Mainly by reason of the enterprise of Mr Sturton in providing
land for building purposes, the district became so large that it became necessary
to carry out the building of the complete Church; this was done in 1887. The
substitution by the Great Eastern Railway Company of a handsome bridge for the old
level crossing in Mill Road gave a great impetus to building in what is now Romsey
town and the church of ease of St Phillip’s was established. Now the time has come
for Romsey town to be raised to the status of an ecclesiastical Parish, with St
Phillip’s as the parish church

FRIDAY
30th October
1973
A group of people found an unusual way to spend an afternoon on Saturday - using
paint to pick-out the detail on a Cambridge lamp-post. The lamp-post which stands
at the paths junction in the middle of Parker's Piece has for many years been
painted plain grey. Now after some hard work by five friends part of it is
resplendent in blues, yellows and red. The friends who are all students were led by
brothers Sandy and David Cairncross. They obtained permission of the City
Surveyor's department before beginning.

1948
Pollution of the river Cam above Baitsbite Lock which resulted in thousands of fish
dying was described at a meeting of the Federation of Anglers as "appalling and
dreadful". Mr C. Baxter stated that on Wednesday evening the lock was "absolutely
clogged" with fish of every conceivable type, not dead, but on top of the water,
gasping.

1923
Sir, - many Cambridge people can remember the "Dismal Jimmies" protesting at the
suggested new road from the Four Lamps over Midsummer common and the bridge to
Chesterton. The council stood firm, what is the result? Victoria Avenue and the
bridge has proved a complete success, the trees have grown and have become a real
avenue. And not only is it a boon and a blessing to Chesterton men; it is a credit
to Cambridge. I trust the council will again stand firm and this time let the boon
be for Newnham, with a roadway over Coe Fen that will prove a credit to the
district and then we can cycle to business without expecting to be caught in the
death trap of crowded Silver Street. – “Safety First"

1898
A shocking murder took place at Saffron Walden workhouse. It appears that a tramp
was seen about the town soliciting alms and was received into the casual ward last
evening. He was conducted to the sleeping quarters and rose in the customary way
this morning and proceeded to the stone breaking quarters to break the usual 8 cwt
of granite. After breaking some of the stones he suddenly quitted the yard and
proceeded to a section of the quadrangle where the tramp master was sweeping.
Without the slightest intimidation he attacked with his hammer, and dealing him two
or three blows with the weapon, felled him to the ground

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
2nd November

Plans by a London catering company to convert the 17th century Bath Hotel in Bene't
St, Cambridge, into a steak bar rival to the Turks Head have been vetoed by Corpus
Christi College who own the site. Dr Peter Lewis said, "We don't want to change the
atmosphere of the Bath Hotel and these plans would have done that too drastically".
The Bath Hotel is basically a 17th century building with extensive 18th century
modifications. West End Catering, who put forward the proposal said, "The college's
grounds for refusal are absolutely unreasonable and invalid. The dons seemed to be
examining our plans as a viable place for them to eat instead of examining them in
terms of popular catering"

1948
Cambridgeshire County council planning committee have refused two applications to
erect railway carriages as dwellings on the grounds that they "fell below the
standard required in any properly planned community". Counc. Mrs Nichols protested
again the general trend of planning "teaching us that we cannot do without proper
water supplies in place of a good old well as in the days gone by, and that we
cannot do without electric light in place of oil lamps. I do hope they will give a
few people the liberty to live in the country without these wretched amenities
which spoil the view and everything else"

1923
Voting is taking place in six wards today for the election of Cambridge town
councillors. Two things which have gradually become usual at these yearly events
again stood out prominently. One was a general slowness of the voting and the other
the foggy weather, accompanied by rain. The rush is expected between 6 and 8 pm
when the men will be at liberty to visit the polling stations in company with their
wives. Probably those who most approve of elections are the school children in the
contested wards, who get an extra holiday because their schools are needed as
polling stations

1898
That electricity is a great boon everyone is prepared to admit, but we shall enjoy
better when scientists have solved more of its mysteries, and when it has dropped
the tendency to drop and die away just at the time when it is most required. The
New Theatre is one establishment where loss of light means loss of money. The
incandescent lamps with which the interior is efficiently illuminated drooped and
finally the current failed all together. Having been accustomed to brilliant
electric light, the fact that the theatre was illuminated by means of ordinary
lamps gave rise to much comment amongst the audience. As far as the stage was
concerned the management had taken the precaution of retaining the gas. However
before the performance commenced the truant current resumed its ordinary course and
gave the steady light which continued the remainder of the evening

TUESDAY
3rd November

1973
A senior planner warned the new Cambridge district council faced a serious position
over the acute shortage of council housing land in the city. David Urwin explained
that even if the council were allowed by the government to go ahead with their
plans to build houses on 100 acres of land at Cherry Hinton all available council
housing land in Cambridge would be used up by the end of 1978. The Environment
Committee chairman said "South Cambridgeshire district council apparently do not
take gladly to any form of development outside Cambridge. But I hope that we shall
be able to negotiate with them"

1948
The vanguard of the "Vanguards" has arrived in Cambridge. An example of this fine
new Standard car is on view at Messrs King and Harper’s Milton Road depot and is
attracting a steady stream of visitors. The model will not be available until early
next year but it is one of those cars which is worth waiting for. First there is
the price. For £425 plus £118 16.7d. purchase tax you get a five to six seater car
with bold, thoroughly modern lines, a 17 h.p. engine capable of speeds in the
region of 80 m.p.h. and a petrol consumption of 22 miles per gallon. The engine is
a four cylinder one with a three-speed gearbox and gives fine performance

1923
When the Newmarket war memorial committee found itself with a balance in hand
after paying for the war memorial on the Severalls, they decided to devote it to
building a nursing home and further subscriptions were solicited. The committee
obtained the assistance of H R H Princess Mary to perform the opening ceremony, and
this took place yesterday. Mr Seymour Cole said, “This town of Newmarket stands out
for its loyalty. It loves the Royal family collectively and individually and it
certainly loves Princess Mary”
1898
Cambridge guardians considered the question of removing children from the
workhouse and placing them in one or more cottage homes. There was one family in
the workhouse who had lived there almost the whole of their lives. They were firmly
convinced that the workhouse was not the best place to keep children. One
difficulty was in getting good foster mothers. But Mr Campkin said he knew of many
instances where boys and girls went out into the world and took responsible
situations which they filled with great credit to themselves. If they arranged for
placing these children out at the expense of the ratepayers he failed to see how in
after life there could be any practical difference with regard to the children

WEDNESDAY

4th November
1973
A stretch of A1 near St Neots was sealed off for five hours last night after a
chemical-carrying articulated lorry burst into flames, threatening overhead power
cables and sending toxic fumes towards Eaton Socon. More than 20 firemen fought the
blaze with foam and water shuttled in an emergency tender. The lorry was loaded
with chemicals widely used in industry. The crash is the latest in a series of
incidents involving the leakage or spillage of chemicals in Mid Anglia roads in
recent months - provoking calls for a tightening-up in chemical transport
regulations

1948
For what is probably the first time in the 360 years that gowns have been worn by
students of Cambridge university, they are being regarded from the fashion
viewpoint. This was the natural development of the wearing of them by women, for,
while men seem happy enough wearing their gowns, which are often torn and dirty,
slung on anyhow, the more dress-conscious sex was bound to look at the matter from
a different angle. A contributor to "Varsity" newspaper makes suggestions as to
what might be worn under them and advocates cheerful colours, rather than browns,
greys and beiges

1923
Saffron Walden Town council resolved, "That the use of chemical colouring matters
and preservatives in food constitute a serious menace to the community, and calls
upon the Ministry of Health to exercise without delay the power to safeguard the
public in this respect, and to take into consideration the serious position in
relation to metallic contamination of tinned food, and the purity of beer”

1898
There are good reasons why the School of Engineering at the University of Cambridge
should be second to none in Great Britain. To impart accurate knowledge according
to the scientific method is now, as it always has been, the supreme aim of the
teaching at Cambridge. It was meet that at a university with these traditions the
study of engineering should find a place and provide the thorough training for a
profession which in this age of machinery comes into greater demand every day. All
who have the honour of Cambridge University at heart may well be satisfied with the
prestige which the Department of Engineering now enjoys

THURSDAY
5th November
1973
Cambridge's prospective parliamentary Labour candidate, James Curran, believes that
the way gipsies are thwarted at every turn should be on everyone's conscience. He
said "The city council have deliberately built obstructions round waste ground
which they feared might be occupied by gypsy settlement, they have hounded gipsies
out of the city". He claimed the site earmarked for possible use by gypsy caravans
at Milton - part of the disused army camp was "totally unsuitable". "It is
sandwiched between the proposed by-pass on one side and the sewage works and waste
disposal company on the other. Why should gipsies have to put up with what everyone
else in Cambridge would find intolerable"

1948
The Mayor of St Ives announced that the Minister of Health has given consent to a
£7,500 loan for the purchase of St Ives Corn Exchange. At the same time he has
authorised the council to start work on the addition of a stage, dressing room and
toilet accommodation. The Mayor said the council did "not want to compete with
amusement contractors but we afraid they might lose the use of the hall - one of
the best in the country. We don't foresee any burden falling upon the ratepayers as
a result". Their alternative scheme included a bar and restaurant on a first floor
balcony and was estimated to cost £2,600

1923
The subject of the censorship of cinematograph films came before the
Cambridgeshire county council. They agreed that no film - other than photographs
of current events - which has not been passed for universal exhibition by British
Board of Film Censors shall be exhibited without the consent of the council. The
Vice Chancellor thought that films such as those of the rags on Market Hill, he
personally would be very glad to see stopped. (Laughter.) If there were no films of
"rags" there would be no "rags" to film. (Laughter)

1898
At Cambridgeshire County Council a report with reference to the conditions that
obtain among gipsies and dwellers in vans and tents was submitted. These people
lead an insanity life, they are the frequent carriers of disease, often disturb the
peace of the localities in which they pitch their camps, and their children
contrive to evade the provision of the Education Act and are brought up in the most
gross ignorance. It is clear that something ought to be done. How is school
attendance to be enforced on children who never acquired a local habitation. The
evils that call for remedies are so real that it is eminently desirable that as far
as possible to do so, the gypsy should be brought within the pale of the ordinary
law

FRIDAY

6th November

1973

6,000 people turned out to support the second firework spectacular presented by
Cambridge Round Table at Cambridge United's Football ground. Hundreds of children
were amongst the spectators to watch the £400 firework display. A variety of set
pieces, most of which largely featured Catherine wheels won plenty of admiration.
But for many sitting high in he terraces the displays of rocket fireworks were
unseen and wasted, obscured by the covered stands. Bonfire night in Cambridge was
one of the quietest for many years. The Fire Brigade had only one call - and that
was a false alarm

1948
 Cambridge’s annual Guy Fawke’s battle was waged in the market square and
surrounding streets . Five undergraduates were amongst those who were arrested and
placed in the Guildhall cells until being bailed. There were three charges of
assaulting the police. Though a strong warning had been given by the university
authorities there was considerable rowdyism. RAF men from nearby airfields and US
service personnel were banned from Cambridge for the night. Ten people were taken
to Addenbrooke's hospital having received slight injuries or fainted in the large
crowds

1923
Cambridge would be disappointed indeed if the Fifth of November failed to produce
a rag of some sort. Last night's effort was, to say the least of it, feeble and was
sustained for the most part by such residents of the town as come out for
excitement on such occasions, and a handful of very callow freshmen. Fireworks
there were in plenty, but the old spirit was lacking. Had it not been for the
mounted police and the proctors, the market square would have been its usual
desolate self soon after 9.30 pm. It was noticeable that as soon as the mounted
police left the crowd decreased by 50 per cent.

1898
Saturday was a typical "fifth” in Cambridge. Faithfully following the precedent
set in former years a number of Varsity men and townspeople assembled in the market
place, which for three hours or so was crowded with excitable and pugilisitically-
inclined youths, representing Town and gown. The Gown driven from pillar to post by
the howling mob, appeared to be greatly terrified, and despite the vigilance of the
police, of whom a large number were told off for special duty, the celebration was
not entirely free from violence. Neither town nor gown missed many opportunities of
displaying their physical prowess and many are the reports circulated as to the
results of the pugilistic encounters that ensued

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
November 9th
1973

Eastern Electricity this week produced a detailed rota and chart to help the public
tell when their area would most likely suffer power cuts. A cutback in electricity
supplies could take place tonight. Voltage reductions were feared during last
night's period of peak demand - usually the largest of the week - but they were not
necessary. The men's associations have agreed nationally with the electricity
industry that they should get special payments for “unsocial hours” they have to
work, but the agreement has been blocked by the government.

1948
Cambridge has lost a well-known townsman by the death of Mr Arthur Deck, one of
the founders of the Cambridge Pharmaceutical Association. He will be remembered for
continuing the custom started by his grandfather, Isaiah Deck, in 1815, the year of
Waterloo. He used to send up one rocket to mark the passing of the old year and
another to herald the arrival of the New Year. This custom ceased with the coming
of the First World War, but for many years Mr Deck was responsible for letting off
the maroons to mark the beginning and the end of the two minutes silence on
Armistice Day

1923
One hundred years ago the Royal and ancient game of rugby football was initiated,
and today an alleged representation of the first game was given in Cambridge market
square. Some time before noon the square was roped off and surrounded by police.
The fountain was converted into a Royal box and the telephone kiosk into a press
box. At noon the teams marched on to the ground. At their head was carried a large
and considerably elongated football on a butchers tray. With the teams marched a
portly and bearded Proctor, complete with "bullers" and a nasty looking birch,
which he did not hesitate to use when occasion demanded

1898
The County Council is disposed to make a bye-law enforcing the carrying of lights
by vehicles at night. No doubt there are those to whom such a byelaw would be
vexatious but there is no getting over the fact that on a dark road a vehicle
without lights is a source of danger. The dictates of common sense which justify
that cyclists shall carry lights clearly prescribe a like precaution in the case of
vehicles. Considerations of the drivers’ convenience cannot be allowed to outweigh
those of public safety

TUESDAY
November 10th

1973
Motorists are having to wait for up to a month for spare parts in a situation
which is becoming a head ache for some Cambridge garages. Mr Frank Taylor of B.E.
Cocks’ garage in Newmarket Road commented: “Delays are getting longer and it's
proving to be an awful headache” Apart from the long waits motorists are having to
face large bills for hiring other cars. “We do the repair work as quickly as
possible and then it comes to a full stop because we have been unable to obtain the
necessary parts”, added Mr Taylor. “The spare parts situation is becoming a joke in
the trade”

1948
At Cambridge town council Councillor Knox Shaw said “The nursing position is very
serious. We do need a large number of nurses if we are to carry out the
instructions of the ministry - that they should not work more than 96 hours a
fortnight. Unless we can get more accommodation for nurses, we might find that we
will have to close down wards in the hospitals. The waiting list in the hospitals
at the moment is over 1800 and if we have to close down the wards the position will
be more and more serious”. Accommodation for over one hundred nurses was required

1923
The red poppy of Remembrance was everywhere in Cambridge today. Every buttonhole,
every bicycle, and every motor car bore visible tribute to those who died that
England might live. Everywhere were busy undergraduates smiling and pushing their
business and selling red silk poppies in aid of the Earl Haig’s Fund for ex-
servicemen and their dependants. The average undergraduate loves to be “up and
doing” and any way he can use his superfluous energy for a good cause appeals to
him. In accordance with their usual custom the memorial at the General Post Office
was decorated with a huge wreath of laurels and poppies

1898
Sir - If it be true that the tramway company are anxious to adopt electric trams,
I trust the council will be very careful not to allow our narrow and dangerous
streets to be made still more dangerous by unsightly overhead wires and posts, or
by the death-trap known as the underground current. In these days of motor cars,
buses etc it is unnecessary to pull up our roads again as surely a good service of
motor omnibuses would answer every need. If not, why not adopt the system of gas
trams? – A Ratepayer

WEDNESDAY
November 11th

Some of the Cambridge school buildings which have to be altered to turn them into
comprehensives may not be ready by the time the new system starts in September
1974. Alterations costing more than £100,000 are being held up because builders,
who have a lot of work on their hands and face an acute labour shortage, are
unwilling to undertake any more City council contracts. Worried council officials
had to approach 13 building firms before they could find anybody willing to
undertake a £4,000 classroom building job at the Coleridge secondary school

1948
Members of the Senate are to discuss a report on the future use of Madingley Hall,
recently purchased by the university. These proposals include its use as the
headquarters of a school of veterinary studies, as the nucleus of a new college
within the university, or as a house of residence for graduate and undergraduate
members of the university. The Hall with certain adaptations could possibly provide
accommodation for some 52 students

1923
The Sun had dispelled a heavy fog when the Cambridgeshire regiment, headed by their
regimental band arrived on Cambridge Market Hill and formed three sides of a hollow
square. There was almost complete silence, broken only by some restive motor in an
adjoining street. Then the beautiful chimes of Great St Mary's struck the hour. A
few seconds later came the report of the maroon and automatically the parade sprang
to attention. Our thoughts were with a glorious dead, and of all they had suffered
in those years of agony. And then … boom! A role on the drums broke in on the
silence, and the buglers sounded the “Last Post”

1898
Mr Wootten told Cambridge town council there were four cottages at Castle end in a
most horrible state. He said they were a disgrace to the corporation. They might
talk about building houses for the poor, when all the time the corporation owned
cottages which were not fit to put pigs in. Mr Campkin said some of their property
was in a very bad state, some of the houses were very very old, and it would be a
question of whether they should not pull the old structures down and rebuild them

THURSDAY
November 12th
1973

The 10,000 agricultural workers in mid-Anglia were today bitterly disappointed at

the £2.30 a week rise awarded by the Agricultural Wages Board after 10 hours of
negotiation. The workers’ spokesman said they were bound to be aggrieved at the
award which gives a new basic rate of £21.80. The farm workers had asked for a £25
a week minimum wage. The higher rate of increase will go to tractor drivers,
horticultural specialists, stockmen and foremen.

1948
Because his wife nagged him a husband was granted a decree-nisi Cambridge divorce
court on the grounds of cruelty. The Commissioner described the wife as a woman
with a very hasty temper, very fond of the sound of her own voice. The husband
said, “She nagged me in such a way as to annoy me with the coarseness of her
language. She would stand over me and talk to me and complain to me when, after a
hard day's work, I was trying to get a bite of supper in peace, and when I went
away upstairs she pursued me with shouting”. The Commissioner mentioned that this
was the sort of thing that happened from time to time in a great many homes but
this was practically a daily occurrence. The wife denied that she had been guilty
of this sort of conduct at all

1923
A merry and light-hearted party of undergraduates, despite police vigilance,
succeeded in obtaining their hearts desire - they manage to light a fire on market
Hill. Certain of the undergraduate community attracted the attention of some
constables to a gas lamp on the one corner of the square. They demonstrated a
desire to figure on the charge sheet of the police court by the charmingly simple
process of putting out the light. The police “fell for it” and kept watch on that
particular part of the market place. Meanwhile another body of the faithful rushed
on to the Market Hill with a rowing eight filled with petrol and had it alight
before people realised what was towards.

1898
In vacation time Cambridge shopkeepers have early closing on Thursday afternoons.
But so soon as term opens early closing ceases. With the shop assistants in their
desire to have a half-holiday once a week our sympathy must go out. The work of
serving in a shop from morning to night from Monday to Saturday is a heavy strain
even on those who are robust. The only way to secure this half-holiday is to get
the shopkeepers to consent to it. That is easy in the case of most of them. The
difficulty is with those who refuse to fall in with the majority. One man who
refuses to close may deprive all the assistants in a town of their holiday

FRIDAY
November 13th
1973

A crowd of several hundred greeted BBC disc jockey, Tony Blackburn, when he arrived
at the Cambridge Co-operative Society store in Burleigh Street. Store officials,
red faces streaming with perspiration, linked arms and strained hard to keep the
ground, largely consisting of weeny-boppers in order. He was appearing at the
store to mark its £40000 ground-floor refit. The new hanging racks of jackets and
jumpers were under almost continuous siege with children of all sizes, as they
tried to get nearer to Mr Blackburn. After 40 minutes he left the store pursued by
young fans. Nevertheless a number of children left in tears clutching unsigned
photographs

1948
It really was women's day at the university Senate House on Saturday. Following the
Queen's visit last month came the first historic degree ceremony to include women
graduates. Previously they had held only the title of their degrees but now a
decree has been passed admitting them to full membership they can proceed in person
to take them. 114 were conferred in all. The recipients included a number who had
left the colleges many years go - two from Girton had graduated in the 1890s. Side
by side with them were young women who had graduated last year. All were enjoying
the first fruits of a successful outcome of a struggle that had lasted 70 years

1923
A disastrous fire occurred in Mill St Gamlingay when four houses were entirely
gutted and their occupants rendered homeless. Messages were set for the Potton and
Sandy brigades. Very fortunately owing to the recent heavy rains, Spittle Pit was
full of water and this proved of great value, as there has always been great
difficulty in pumping water from the brook over the railway bridge. On three other
occasions during the past year thatched dwellings in Mill Street have been
destroyed by fire. This brings into prominence the scarcity of homes for the people
of the village, as new houses are seldom built to replace those destroyed

1898
 An extraordinary accident occurred at the Weston Colville mill. A man had left his
horse and cart against the mill gate when he went inside. He emerged from the mill
door to find his horse walking up to the mill sails, which were revolving at a fast
speed. The animal got knocked over and the mill was immediately stopped by Mr
Livermore. The horse was found not to be dead but much injured on the side of the
head

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
November 16

1973
Cambridge University’s extra-mural studies board will move out of the city and into
new offices at Madingley Hall if a £60,000 plan now being considered by dons is
approved. But they are hoping that the scheme would cost the University nothing – a
gift of £47,000 is being offered by a trustee of the University of Southern
California and the Board of Extra-Mural studies would be required to meet the
remaining £13,000 from their balances. Madingley Hall at present houses 55
residents who are either visiting scholars or graduate students of the university.

1948
The weight of Princess Elizabeth’s baby at birth was 7lb 6oz. The Duke of Edinburgh
was informally dressed in open-necked shirt and sweater when the doctors brought
him the news: “It’s a boy”. Immediately he went in to see his wife, who had not
then come round from the anaesthetic. At least six babies were born in Cambridge to
share the royal birthday. The happy mothers are Mrs Nicholls, Summers, Montesiory,
Withington and Moss of Cambridge and Mrs Narkiewicz of the Polish hostel,
Trumpington

1923
A ceremony unique in Cambridge and of a very impressive nature took place at the
Carmelite convent on Chesterton road when his eminence Cardinal Bourne, Archbishop
of Westminster gave an address. The ceremony was that of enclosing nuns. The house
consists of two former dwelling houses joined together and possesses a small public
chapel in which there will be public mass every day. With the exception of the nuns
choir chapel, no part of the building is actually new

1923 – Nov 14
A very interesting series of demonstrations in apple grading was commenced in Mr
A.E. Gautrey’s packing sheds, Cottenham. The object was to call the attention of
local growers to the enormous advantage of good grading and packing, representing
as much as 5s. a bushel more to the grower, and enabling the British producer to
compete successfully with overseas fruit. By good grading the buyer is able to rely
on getting a package of fruit all of the same approximate size and weight instead
of a jumbled up assortment of all shapes and sizes. Experience has shown that the
public are prepared to pay for these advantages

TUESDAY
17th November

1973
No more Cambridge council houses will be sold after April 1st – because the waiting
list of people who want to rent them is growing daily and building land is running
out. The new Labour controlled Cambridge district council also intends to clamp
down on speculators who buy old houses cheaply and sell them at big profits after
modernising them with the aid of improvement grants. During the last five years
almost 300 city council houses have been sold to tenants and a number of other
possible sales are in the legal pipeline.
1948
Days of the “flying farmer” were foreshadowed at the Cambridge cattle market when a
Tiger Moth dual-control aircraft was auctioned along with the more usual
agricultural implements. It was bought for £100 by Mr Jack Branch, of Waterbeach,
an agricultural contractor and motor dealer. The machine, once an RAF aircraft was
advertised in the catalogue as “engine as new, airframe done 1,508 hours at the
last inspection”. It is the first time that an aircraft has been auctioned at the
cattle market. Interested spectators climbed on to the lorry on which it rested to
inspect it, while small boys took the opportunity of climbing into the cockpit. A
civil aviation expert estimated that a similar aircraft in going order would be
priced about £250.

1923
The Cambridge undergraduates have once more been the source of innocent amusement.
The "rag" consisted in the purchase of one of the old 4- wheeled tram cars that
used in bygone days to be both a convenience and an adornment to the streets of
Cambridge. On Saturday when it was expected that the tram would be towed in state
through Cambridge streets the authorities were alarmed by the appearance of numbers
undergraduates outside the yard where the tram was stored. At this moment another
tram made its appearance, a tram of Lilliputian dimensions, towed with steady ropes
by a happy band of undergraduates. The miniature car was solemnly dragged into the
centre of town and along old tram lines, which have for many years or so useless a
feature in King's Parade.

1898
At Cambridge bankruptcy court Wilfred Waldock, miller, of Ashwell said he had
started business at Bassingbourn mill about 1885. In 1896 the mill was burnt down
and he obtained £400 from the Insurance Society. He afterwards took Ashwell mill.
The terms of agreement for the tenancy of the mill was that he was to share the
water with the brewer. He knew he could not pay his creditors.

WEDNESDAY

18th November

1973
The cost of bringing the White Ribbon Hotel at East Road, Cambridge up to the
standard needed to meet fire safety regulations and public health requirements now
about £4,000 – nearly three times the amount originally estimated. Until last April
the hotel was run by the Salvation Army as a hostel for city working men with no
family roots. But, because of the high cost of maintaining the building and
bringing it up to the new standards, the Salvation Army moved out and the |County
council took over the building. Cambridge city council have told the county that
they will not pay any more than £750.

1948
Soon the sight of women students in their gowns and proceeding to degrees alongside
the men, will become common place, and no one will give them a second thought. It
is the “first time” however, which makes news and even the occasion of the first
woman to be “progged” becomes a minor act of University history. Members of the
colleges had awaited with interest to see on whom this “honour” would befall. Their
curiosity was satisfied within three weeks of the beginning of term. The “honour” –
said to have be coveted by a number of women students, who tried to attract the
attention of the proctor – fell to a third-year anthropology student of Girton,
Miss Valida Turner, who was fined for not wearing her gown after dark
1923
Miss Alderson said that since the opening of the Cambridge shelter for girls house
in 1922 there had been 91 admissions. The present house (13 Hertford Street) was
absolutely in adequate. There was a lack of proper arrangements for cleansing, no
possibility for a separate bedroom for those for whom it was urgently necessary, no
place except the one sitting room where the washing could be dried and the absence
of any pretence of a waiting room. She described the only lines on which such a
house could be run as Early Victorian if not prehistoric and appealed for support
from the municipal authorities

1898
It is surprising that in Cambridge there is not what might be termed a set
gymnasium; a building set apart for the science of muscular developments, for a
science it is now generally admitted to the. There are several small and excellent
gymnasium but they are all of a limited and temporary nature. The university is
almost as badly off as the town and what is needed is an enterprising man who would
establish a good central gymnasium with first-rate appliances fixed in a spacious
building

THURSDAY
19th November
1973

Many mid-Anglia motorists had to take petrol pot-luck today as reductions in

supplies began to bite at garages around the region. The Cambridge Short Street
garage warned the fuel crisis could force them out of business while others
reported rationing and restrictions on opening hours. The manager said “We are now
restricting petrol to our regular customers. They can get £1 if they have one of
our stickers”. The owner of Ted Salisbury & Son’s garage said: “We are limiting
petrol to four gallons a customer. Our sales were 37% up last week as a result of
panic buying. We ran out of petrol last night”.

1948
The position of European Volunteer Workers at the West Wratting Hostel was
mentioned at a meeting of the Cambridge Employment Committee. Few of the workers
were placed in the Cambridge area and they were not a drug on the local labour
market. The manager of the Cambridge Employment Exchange said demand for labour
still exceeded supply, particularly in building, civil engineering and agriculture.
Housing was still a problem and any large importation of labour was out of the
question.

1923
Mr R C Pierce the manager of the Cambridge electricity by supply company said that
there was there had been three central generating stations built in 1891 of which
Cambridge was one. They were built to prove that the turbines could work for in
those days everyone was afraid because of the speed of the machine. The dynamos
gave trouble and used to burn out at inconvenient moments. Cambridge started in
1892 and was run by very carefully trained men whose motto was "Never mind what
happens, keep it going". Some people thought that the power in the town was very
costly but it compared favourably with others of the same kind

1898
Sir - how is it possible to keep our pavements clean while the roads are in such a
filthy condition. Every morning the policeman on their beat spot parts and very
properly request the tenant responsible to clean their part forthwith. But of what
use is it? In less than an hour they are as bad as ever. Then their next policeman
that comes on duties repeats the request of the former one, and it is hard to
convince in that it has already been done. Surely the rates are high enough to have
the roads probably swept once a day and pavements as well so the policeman might be
saved the trouble of superintendent the cleaning of them. – Pathfinder

FRIDAY
20th November
1973
Edward Towgood and sons ltd of Sawston, who run the 300 year-old paper mill, one of
the oldest in the country, is to close in February. The mill, the last left in East
Anglia, is part of the Reed paper and board group. The firm announced losses
totalling more than £1/4 million over the past three years. The other factors were
acute labour shortage in the area and the alarming world shortage of materials. The
decision to close in no ways affects its close neighbours Spices (stationery) ltd.
It is hoped that many people currently working for Towgood would join Spicers.

1948
A very important visitor who every child in Cambridge welcomes with joy, arrived on
Saturday. He was none other than Santa Claus. He arrived from Toytown with a well-
filled sack to deal with the seasonal requirements of the boys and girls. He was
given a royal welcome. There were several hundred children of all ages ranging from
tiny tots carried by their mothers, waiting in a state of great expectancy, at his
destination, Mitcham’s, Chesterton Road. Cheers from waiting children heralded the
arrival of the smiling, rosy cheeked Santa and a knot gathered round and followed,
Pied-piper fashion, to the foot of the ladder he had to climb up to the chimney
before he disappeared down the chimney into Santa’s Nurseryland where he will be in
residence till Christmas

1923
The council of the Photographic Convention have decided to visit Cambridge next
July if arrangements town be made locally. A new generation of photographers having
come along it was thought desirable to visit the town again. Certain officials
visited a few days ago when they were enthusiastically received by those prominent
in local photographic circles. On the last visit to Cambridge in 1902 many
complained about having too many excursions and not been allowed sufficient time in
the town

1898
At a recent performance at the Cambridge theatre a plaintive appeal was addressed
by an occupant of one of the back seats in the stalls to certain ladies in front to
remove their hats. With the present fashion in hats it is absolutely necessary to
enforce a rule of "hats off" if those who are behind are to get a glimpse of the
stage at all. It seems that the resources of millinery have been equal to the
situation and a method has been devised whereby the fair wearer has merely to
remove the aigrette which she can use as a fan during the performance, and at the
close slip the feathers into the hat as before. Matter of fact males may suggest
that it would be simpler still not to wear feathers at all. The suggestion betrays
a woeful ignorance of what fashion and its behests are

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
23rd November

1973
It was the Second World War which boosted the trade in used agricultural machinery
at Cambridge cattle market. Now, after 30 years on the Hills Road site, it is hoped
that the move to the new sales area down Milton Road will give a similar fillip to
what is generally regarded as one of Europe’s outstanding second-hand implements
market. The cattle market developed over the years and continued unchanged until
1966 when the advent of an £8,000 new corn market proved more or less a flop from
the start and received negligible support from farmers and auctioneers. There have
been frequent prophecies that the cattle market will eventually go the same way.
Obstinately though, it refuses to die

1948
Beautiful aspects of the Cambridgeshire fenland were the main interest of an
instructive and interesting lantern lecture, “Landscape photography”, given by Mr
B.G.A. Snelson. He showed a series of fenland landscapes which his eye for beauty
in many a scene which the passer-by would probably not notice at first glance.
Several examples of wind in the fens were much admired by his audience.

1923
Sir with reference to the continuation bus service from Chesterton to Old
Chesterton, I would like to point out that we ran the service in 1919 but it was an
absolute failure and we were compelled to drop it. However as there seems to be a
fresh demand I am giving it a trial. The terminus of the cars will be at Chapel
Street, Old Chesterton, instead of De Freville Avenue as heretofore. The fare from
Market Street to Chapel Street will be twopence. You will realise that it is quite
impossible to revert to the penny fare over the whole of the services. It is true
that the price of petrol has dropped, but the price of wages and labour generally
has not decreased - John Walford, Ortona Motor Company

1898
A sad tale was unfolded at an inquest on the body of a lad aged 14 years. He had
been employed for the last 14 months as an errand boy. On Tuesday he came home and
complained of a pain in his body. On Sunday he appeared to be worse and his mother
put some turpentine flannels on his chest, but he died the same day. The boy had
suffered from the pains since Whitsuntide, when he went to the fair and had some
ice cream and hot peas. The coroner said people ought to warn their children not to
go to the fairs and eat this ice cream

TUESDAY
24th November

The Queen came to Ely yesterday – and made history because she gave her permission
to allow Ely the right to remain a city after the local government reorganisation
next April. The most hectic moment of a busy day came in the afternoon on the
market place where crowds had gathered to see her watch 600 schoolchildren put on a
display of the Ely street festival seen earlier this year. A black mongrel dog kept
following the Royal party. A police officer gently pushed the dog into the crowd
and gave instructions to people to stand with their legs close together to prevent
the dog running out again

1948

An interesting feature of the Cambridge Accident Prevention Council exhibition is

the relaying to the Guildhall of a commentary of the conduct of road users given
from a police patrol car touring the town. Members of the public are invited to
accompany the commentator in the patrol car. Though police radio is not yet in use
in Cambridge special arrangements have been made to fit apparatus which will also
be used when the general system comes into operation

1923
Mr Taylor told the house possession hearing that he was the owner of numbers 11
and 12 Church Street, Old Chesterton. He wanted to knock a hole through the wall
of the adjacent house and join one bedroom on to his house. He was willing to allow
one shilling off his tenant’s rent. The plaintive said his wife suffered from
nerves and required perfect quiet at night. The slightest noise broke her rest.
Defendant and his wife annoyed him by "singing that molly-coddle hymn, ‘Who shall
enter the pearly gates?’ for two hours at a time”. The judge made an order for
possession of the required bedroom and fixed the rent at 4s. a week for the rest of
the house

1898
There was an exceptionally sat occurrence on Fore Hill, Ely. A traction engine,
drawing two trucks and with a portable engine in the rear, made the descent of the
Hill. This proved so difficult that the attention of a considerable number of
onlookers was arrested. The driver appeared unable powerless to control either the
speed of the machine or the erratic course taken by the trucks. The engine at the
rear careered from one side to the other. Two youths took refuge in the passage
leading to the Conservative club. They remained there until the engine had passed,
but did not notice the engine in the rear, and as they came out of the passage one
of its wheels came in contact with the pavement near them and broke off. One boy
received such serious injuries that last night he died

WEDNESDAY
25th November

1973
Newmarket can be described as the typical small country town for shopping – al the
necessitities of life and a few of the luxuries are available in one main area and
in several small ones. There are no less than five saddlers in the town. Apart from
such rarefied suppliers many of the grocery chain stores have branches in the
town : Liptons, International Stores, Fine Fare and the Co-operative Society.
Smaller grocery stores are dying out but Laing’s, an old-established and more
specialised food chop, keeps going under the aegis of Fine Fare. There is nothing
special in clothing. Ashfords is a good general drapery if you don’t expect high
fashion, and Janes two boutiques with Norma’s room at the Top are respectable
rather than distinguished.

1948
Laundry girls from Haverhill and Ely travelled into Cambridge with their supporters
to meet their Cambridge competitors in the first stage of a contest aimed at
increasing the status of both the laundry girl and the laundry by each year
crowning as “Queen Lorna” one who has been chosen as the most capable worker to
represent the industry. The winner was a Cambridge laundress, Miss Vera Morley, a
22-year old girl with six years laundry experience, a packing room hand employed by
the Coldham Model Laundry, Coldham’s Lane. At the end of the judging she was
adorned by the mayoress with the much-coveted band bearing the name: “Lorna”. She
also received a cheque for £5

1923
A letter was read from March branch of the National Farmers Union on the urgent
need for supplementing the existing labour supply for the getting up of the potato
crop. He asked if they could close the schools for a fortnight to enable the
children to assist in the work. The potato crop was exceptionally late this year
and is the work were protracted there would be a risk of serious damage by frost.
Councillors thought that they would shut out of schools about 1,000 children for
the sake of about 20 who would go to work

1898
Great crowds had been assembling outside Great St Mary's and the railings before
the Senate House with the exception of a pathway of about five yards which the
police were endeavouring to keep clear for those attending the honorary degree
ceremony for Lord Kitchener. It was evidence that the constables were having hard
work in keeping the crowds from encroaching. At length the looked-for rush took
place and such was the force that the police were quite powerless to check it. A
general scramble to get upon the railings ensued when without the slightest warning
the railings suddenly gave way and fell outwards carrying many unfortunate persons
to the ground with them. The solidity of this great piece of ironwork is well known
and it is wonderful that more were not seriously injured.

THURSDAY
26th November

1973
Cambridge greyhound stadium moves from the dog racing backwoods in February next
year when their twice-weekly meetings will come under the auspices of the National
Greyhound Racing Club. At present their meetings at Cambridge City Football Club’s
Milton Road ground are continuing on Wednesday and Saturday during the
floodlighting ban with the aid of a generator installed at Milton Road.

1948
For the first time anywhere in the world, a new series of television was used to
promote road safely at Cambridge. Traffic scenes on Market Hill were televised to
the Accident Prevention Exhibition in the Corn Exchange. “Closed-circuit” as it is
called is the latest development of the Cambridge firm of Pye Ltd. Two cameras were
operated, one fixed to the balcony of the Guildhall and the other on top of a van
at the corner of Petty Cury. Along this narrow, one-way street, between 8am and 6pm
approximately 7,000 bicycles and 2,00 other vehicles pass each weekday. The slow
speed of the traffic and its one-way direction helps to keep the accident rate down

1923
The accommodation on the women's side at Fulbourn hospital is now strained to its
utmost limit. The chairman said they had 71 more women on their books than they
could accommodate and they dealt with the problem by sending 20 patients to
Worcester. If they sent the other 50 to another hospital they would find they were
sending out some of their best workers and they would have to have a larger staff
to do the work of these 50. Dr Reardon said they could not recommend reconstructing
the male part of the asylum and use it for females

1898
The enthusiasm aroused by Lord Kitchener’s visit to Cambridge increased as the day
wore on. Varsity men, brimful of high spirits, gathered in the streets in large
numbers. For upwards of an hour thousands of people paraded the streets. It was not
until eight o'clock that the cries of “bonfire” were heard. The call was eagerly
taken up by hundreds of undergraduates and some boxes from a shop hard by were
seized on as the fuel with which to start the blaze. Bands of men bearing massive
wooden structures came up from all quarters and the flames mounted to an enormous
height, so that the fire could be seen for miles around

FRIDAY
27th November

1973
The construction of a nuclear power station at the old wartime bomber site at
Molesworth, west of Huntingdon, is being planned. The Central Electricity
Generating Board are currently investigating the suitability of the site and they
need planning permission from the Government before they can go ahead with the £200
million development. The scheme was announced today. If plans go through they don’t
expect to start actual building work until the late 1970s. The airfield closed down
in the mid 1950s and has since been used as a store by the United States Air Force

1948
About 2,700 aged and other Cambridge people queued up inside the Guildhall to
receive gifts of foodstuffs which have been given by people in the Dominions. The
foodstuffs, totalling between 5½ and 6 tons, have been received from the people of
South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Included in them is jam, beef loaf and
beef hash, passion fruit spread, dripping, dehydrated apples, camp pie and a small
quantity of soap.

1923
An inquest was held on the death of a timber carter from Steeple Bumpstead who had
been killed by the falling of a tree trunk from a loaded timber drug at Mr
Bradnam’s saw mills, Haverhill. A load of trees had been bought from Stambourne
Green on a four-wheeled drug, drawn by an engine. The deceased had undone the
chain, had he not done so the trees could not have fallen off.

1898
Readers of the “Cambridge Daily News” will have noticed that for many weeks past
the amount of news gathered by our reporters has been so great that to insert the
whole in any one edition is quite impossible. Under these circumstances a further
enlargement of the paper has become necessary and accordingly we have put down a
new type of machine by Messrs Dawson and sons which will print a sheet giving
seven, eight or nine columns to the page. This is the fourth machine supplied by
them. The three others, although in constant use, are well capable of doing their
work (two are more than 10 years old) and are a credit to English workmanship. We
hope in a very short time to give our readers the advantages which the laying down
of this machine has rendered possible

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
7 December
1973

Only one woman in a Saffron Walden factory knows the recipe of natural oils and
moisture that go into a huge melting pot to reduce Britain's biggest selling
moisturiser. British women have always had a reputation for good skins and it is
only recently they have begun to turn to moisturisers and skin care creams to help
slow down the advance of lines and wrinkles. Latterly these products that have
cornered the fastest growing section of the cosmetics industry and the Garsalle
factory at Shire Hill, Saffron Walden has been carried along on the crest of a
wave. It employs just over 30 people turning out 150,000 bottles of skin care
products a week. And the factory is bursting at the seams.

1948
At Paston House school speech day the Headmistress, Mother Paul, gave a brief
sketch of the development of the school during the past 50 years, for it was just
half a century ago when it was founded. She referred with regret that so many
applications for vacancies had to be refused as kindergarten places were filled up
to 1951. The premises were still far from adequate, for an assembly hall, a
permanent gymnasium, a studio and a library were all needed. The war did not
dislocate the work of the school as much as might have been expected, but it roused
special interest in nursing and first aid.
1923
Signs were not wanting this morning of a “big push” being made in the county by
the supporters of the rival parliamentary candidates. A representative of the
C.D.N. who motored round some of the principle villages, noticed a big
concentration of motor cars bearing the Conservative colours, which seemed very
largely to outnumber those of the other candidates. It was noticed however that
many of the veterans sturdily insisted on walking to the polls rather than be
conveyed in motor cars.

1898
Two boys aged eight and nine were charged with unlawfully placing upon the L.& W N
railway two trolley wheels and an axle with intent to obstruct a train at Little
Eversden. Daniel Garner, driver of the engine from Cambridge to Bletchley, stated
that after passing Lord's Bridge station he saw them on the line in front of him.
He shut off the steam and applied the brake, but could not stop in time, and the
trolley wheels were smashed to pieces. They were an odd pair of wheels, out of use,
and were lying beside the line. The vicar of Comberton gave the boys a good
character. They were bound over and cautioned not to go on to the line to play
again

TUESDAY
8th December
1973

Reach, the tiny but historic village in the middle of the Cambridgeshire fens could
do with a pub. The last public house closed some years ago. It is considered that
the village would benefit socially if a public house were re-established, but, of
course, such a project must be shown to be commercially viable. This need is
spotlighted by the County Planning Department in their outline proposals for
village development in the next ten years.

1948
It is a good many years since there was a circus at the New Theatre, which makes
this week’s visit of Don Ross’s Royal Imperial Circus all the more welcome.
Everything that makes a circus is here – with the one notable exception of the
elephants. There are the horses, dogs, monkeys, wire-walkers, the trapeze artiste,
the lions, and the clowns – even two performing geese (said to be the only ones in
the world). All the acts are interspersed with the appearance of the clowns, Edgar
Cooke, Little Alf Pratley and Rabbit who also appears with a trampoline (one of
those bouncing affairs) and invites members of the audience to have a go.

1923
Elections, like boots, beer and, of course, bananas, are generally held to be much
below pre-war standard. Some of the old spirit seems to have been awakened in the
campaign which closed last night, and a “certain liveliness” on Cambridge Market
Hill was slightly reminiscent of the old eve of the poll scenes. Many discussions
were hastily adjourned as dense clouds of acrid smoke from a smoke bomb rolled down
on them, and there was a gentle scramble for some minutes. While this was going on
an agile disciple of Tarzan shinned up a lamppost and revived the ancient pastime
of “dousing the glim”. A slick-handed undergraduate switched on a constable’s lamp
attached to the latter's belt at the rear, and the limb of the law strode around
blissfully unconscious of the shining light behind.

1898
As the Mail cart which runs between Huntingdon and Cambridge was proceeding
through Hemingford Abbots the horse stumbled and fell on the granite which has
recently been laid on the road, and cut its leg so badly that it could not proceed.
The driver tried to borrow a horse to continue his journey. Colonel Dougal very
kindly lent one of his nags and then his groom had to drive the Mail cart to St
Ives where it arrived nearly an hour behind time. Other arrangements were made for
continuing the journey to Cambridge

WEDNESDAY
9th December

1973
A series of explosions rocked the centre of Cambridge over the weekend and so far
the cause remains a mystery. Gas board officials say the bangs have nothing to do
with natural gas leaks. The bangs were reported to police by householders in the
Green Street – Sidney Street area. They brought people rushing from their houses,
but they could find no cause for the explosions. While the people were outside more
bangs occurred, apparently from underground

1948
Cambridgeshire is the home base of some 50% of the RAF aircraft and crews at
present bringing help on the airlift to Berlin. Oakington, one of the war-time
Pathfinder airfields, and Waterbeach, are the two stations on which Dakota
squadrons taking part in the lift have their home base. Another Cambridge link is
that the commander of the squadron equipped with Hastings transport aircraft is a
Cambridge man, Squadron-Leader P. J. Finlayson of Milton Road. He was the first man
to pilot a Hastings carrying coal into Gatow, one of the Berlin termini of the
lift.

1923
The question of providing additional accommodation at Cambridge workhouse was
considered. The committee had inspected the sanatorium of the Leys school in Hooper
street which was for sale. It appeared to be suitable for a nurses home. Mr Hall
said they ought to leave some of the patients at Chesterton. Some of them had been
in the institution for 10 or 12 years and it would be better to leave them there to
spend the evening of their life, where they knew almost everyone

1898
The keeper of the coffee tavern in Fitzroy Street, Cambridge, was summoned for
permitting gaming. P.C. Wright stated he saw 15 boys and young men, several of whom
were playing dominoes. He noticed they were playing a “run out game”. He asked
defendant whether he allowed the lads to play for anything and he replied “Yes,
they play for coffee”. The police said they were not allowed to play for money or
money's worth. The chairman said it was most desirable to prevent gaming among boys
but they did not think it was a very bad case and defendant would only have to pay
the costs

THURSDAY
10th December
1973
A 160-foot-high chimney that was used in the old days as a furnace for brick-making
in the heyday of the Cambridge brick industry is now a pile of bricks, strewn about
a sticky clay building site off Coldham’s Lane, Cambridge. The chimney was
abandoned well before the last war and remained as a blackened reminder of the
glories of an industry past its peak. The new owners of the site, J. Coral Estates
Ltd, decided they did not need it at their £3 million warehouse and industrial
development on the 11 acres they have bought so they blew it up. The bricks will
become the fill for part of the new warehouse development already christened the
Coral Park Estate
1948
Fifteen leading hospitals in the Cambridge area – including Saffron Walden, Linton,
and St Neots – will be administered by a new management committee operating from
permanent headquarters at Newmarket White Lodge Hospital – the main portion of
which was constructed during the war as an emergency hospital. It will become a
full-scale general hospital with one of the finest outpatients departments in the
country.

1923
Yesterday’s rugby match between Oxford and Cambridge was celebrated by
undergraduates of both universities in right royal, and it is feared, somewhat
rowdy, style in the West End of London. The two teams and their friends overran the
Winter Garden Theatre. They walked over the stalls, climbed in and out of the
boxes, invaded the orchestra and the stage, crowded the vestibule and overflowed at
times into Drury Lane. The performance was interrupted continuously by noisy
hilarity. All the songs and choruses were “guyed” and mimicked and the performers
were pelted with miles of paper streamers. The performance had to be terminated
and the theatre had to be closed

1898
Few things are of greater utility and have more influence for good on village
populations than the village institute. The public hall at Willingham is an
institution that has thoroughly justified its existence, and to add still further
to the many attractions of the place they have resolved upon a scheme for providing
a piano. The question has been taken up right earnestly, and it is to be hoped that
before long the worthy object will have been realised.

FRIDAY
11th December

1973
Councillor Don Maltby told Cambridge housing committee that Cherry Hinton had
always been an isolated part of the city – and residents wanted it to remain that
way. “The people of Cherry Hinton are not selfish but are wondering why all these
houses should be built there. I think they are right because this is the one part
of the city which has always considered itself to be a village”. He was speaking
about plans to build up to 1,500 houses and flats to accommodate about 4,500 people
together with shops and a school in the area.

1948

1923
A Fordham newsagent and fruiterer appeared for his examination in bankruptcy. He
said that up to 1914 he worked for his mother hawking fish, fruit and vegetables,
then she gave up the business and handed it over to him. It was £28 in debt at the
time and there were a pony and cart and a barrow worth about £7.10s. About six
months later the pony had to be destroyed. He added the news agency business in
1915 employing three boys. His average takings per week were about £67 for the fish
and news agency and fruit and vegetables £30.

1898
A bus driver was summoned for being drunk whilst in charge of three horses and a
bus at Quy. P.C. Edwards stated that an omnibus belonging to the Cambridge Omnibus
Company, laden with passengers, and drawn by three horses overtook him near the
Bottisham Swan, where passengers alighted. He overtook the bus halfway to the
Prince Albert. Some of the passengers were then on the road, and the vehicle was on
the wrong side, standing partially on the greensward between the hedge and the
highway. One of the passengers said the driver was drunk and had nearly capsized
the omnibus. The driver got down with difficulty and fell on the road and was so
drunk that he could not get up again. He was fined 10s.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
14th December
1973
Mid Anglia seems set for a bonanza Christmas with people determined to enjoy
themselves while they can – come power, petrol or rail crises. Most of the region’s
shops report that business is booming although they are unclear as to whether this
Is because of the traditional pre-Christmas spending sprees or because housewives
are stocking up in fear of worse to come, hoarding things which they though might
become scarce. Many of the smaller towns believe the petrol shortage is helping
them by keeping shoppers away from the big centres, Cambridge and Bedford.

1948
Popular Sandy (“Can you here me, mother”) Powell heads a first-rate bill in the New
Theatre’s panto week. As one who has never been an ardent admirer of his broadcast
shows and who had never seen him in the flesh before, I was a little dubious about
what sort of an evening I was going to have and was probably the stiffest member of
the first-night audience. But not for long! Let me acknowledge here and now that
he made me laugh more than any other comedian I have ever seen at the New Theatre
since live shows were re-introduced there

1923
A Cambridge cycle agent and gramophone dealer who started in business without any
previous experience appeared before the bankruptcy court. He had commenced business
at Abbey Walk although never apprenticed to the cycle trade as he had always had an
inclination that way. He also took up the gramophone and record business in which
he had no experience, but he thought there was money in it. He estimated his
turnover at about £10 a week. He lost about £40 on Christmas toys by over-stocking
and £67 on the fall in bicycle prices

1898
The members of her family share with Queen Victoria a dislike to all unnecessary
fuss and show. The Empress Frederick paid a visit to Cambridge yesterday, took a
drive through the streets and left, but hardly anybody knew we had had a Royal
visitor. So much of the lives of those who are in this high station is of necessity
lived in public that one can well understand how glad they are to avoid, in as far
as it is possible, the observation of the crowd. Cambridge would gladly have done
her honour but it is a matter for satisfaction that the Empress's own will in
regard to her visit was carried out so faithfully

TUESDAY
15th December
1973
Ely Rural Council, who sold 44 of their houses in the last financial year, are now
considering buying some newly-built private houses – to ease their waiting lists.
The houses at The Row and the Hillside, Sutton have been empty for several months
and already existing residents fear the idea will bring down the value of their
homes.
1948
Speaking at the annual staff dinner of the Cambridgeshire Technical College and
School of Art Sir Frederick C. Bartlett, Professor of Experimental Psychology in
Cambridge University, said the status of the Technical Institutes should be
improved to bring them more nearly on a level with the universities. For many years
his students and staff had been able to visit the college to take courses in
practical subjects such as engineering, electricity and electronics and machine
drawing

1923
Cambridge town council formally received the resignation of the borough surveyor,
Mr Julian Julian. He said in a letter that work on roads, bridges, planning etc had
been delayed and he had found that people had attributed these delays to the
weakness of him and his staff. Councillor Stubbs said they had lost a brilliant
surveyor. His department had been understaffed and he had been struggling alone and
it appeared that he would not have resigned had he been given help

1898
The proposal that as Christmas Day falls upon a Sunday the general holiday should
extend not only over Boxing Day but also Tuesday has received substantial support
in Cambridge. It would be difficult to exaggerate the extent to which this
additional breathing space will be appreciated and no one will be seriously
inconvenienced by the closing. Shopping in the town will be all the more brisk
before Christmas, because there is to be a respite after, and assistants will put
all the more heart into their work because of the good holiday that lies before
them

WEDNESDAY
16th December
1973
The world’s longest surviving liver transplant patient, Mrs Winifred Smith, made
her annual pilgrimage to Cambridge to see the surgeon who saved her life five years
ago. She was one of 100 kidney and liver transplant patients who had come from all
over Britain to acknowledge their debt to Prof. Roy Calne and his team at an annual
Christmas reunion in the new Frank Lee Centre at Addenbrooke’s. These get-togethers
have been held for the last seven years

1948
The first important milestone in Cambridge post-war housing drive was reached when
the Mayor opened the council’s’1,000th house – an “Easiform”, at 27 Peverell Road
on the Newmarket road site, where tenant, Mrs Betson, was waiting. Beforehand they
had been taken on a tour of some of the principal housing estates in the town and
saw estates at all stages of development - ranging from the neat, well-established
looking one at Trumpington, only lacking the shops which will come one day, to the
unfinished but partly-tenanted. At these mothers with perambulators have to be
helped through the mud, and children kept in wellington boots.

1923
A recommendation that a subsidy equivalent to £8 per house for 20 years be given to
induce private enterprise to proceed with the erection of houses was carried by
Cambridge town council. Councillor Few thought those who built would take advantage
of the law of supply and demand. Only last week a case occurred of a landlord of a
house in Romsey town raising the rent from 7s.9d. to 14s.9d. when the father died,
declaring that the house had become vacant and telling the daughter she could have
it at the increased rent – nearly 100% advance

1898
A large number of buyers, graziers, farmers and visitors assembled at the Newmarket
cattle market on the occasion of Mr George Blencowe’s annual Christmas sale. During
the morning all the roads presented a busy scene and as time drew near to the
commencement of the sale the place became congested with latecomers, all anious to
unload in time. A preliminary look round the various stalls and pens showed 90 oxen
and 300 good fat sheep. In accordance with the usual custom the prize winners were
sold first with an Angus ox exhibited by Mr C. Morbey, Soham, eventually knocked
down for £39
THURSDAY
17th December
1973
Thousands of women planning to look just a bit prettier this Christmas with a
holiday hairdo will be disappointed. For leading Cambridge hairdressers have
announced they have been forced to cut their bookings by almost half because of
Government measurers that say only five out of the next ten days can be worked.
Joshua Taylor’s hairdressing department “Raymond” said, “We can do simple
appointments which won’t involve the use of electricity but I estimate we will have
to turn about 1,000 people away”

1948
The platform of the Newmarket railway station was bathed in the glare of arc lights
when film cameramen took “location” shots for a forthcoming documentary film. A
mobile camera unit was taking shots of a train entering and leaving the station.
The “extras” who lined the corridors of the train were European Volunteer Workers
about whom the film is being made.
Newmarket station, was recently given the title of “the cleanest and most
attractive in East Anglia”

1923
At Cambridge town council councillor Edwards asked to know what policy was adopted
to find out if goods were consistent with the prices charged. He knew for a fact
that on one occasion several dozen hurricane lamps were supplied of three different
qualities and yet the invoice sent to the council had the highest rate for the lot.
Then there was the case of shovels. The firm which had the order went round to
other firms asking for them, saying: “they’re only for the corporation. Anything
will do”. A high price was asked for the whole of these shovels which were of two
qualities

1898
Mr Steven, vice principal of Newnham College Cambridge, in distributing the prizes
at Kingston-on-Thames school for girls, said it was most undesirable, even in the
highest classes, that more than an hour a day should be devoted by girls to home
lessons. There were instances in which girls occupied far more time than was
necessary over such work. In view of what has repeatedly been maintained respecting
the prejudicial effect of over-study upon girls the statement of Miss Stevens, who
speaks with a wide experience, is most important

FRIDAY
18th December
1973
Mid Anglia stores say they are making valiant efforts to give the public every
opportunity to do their Christmas shopping. Most will depend heavily on emergency
lighting and special security measures will be taken to beat the shoplifters. Eaden
Lilley say that on days without electricity old gas lamps still fitted in the shop
will be used. The January sales have been brought forward at Robert Sayle to take
advantage of remaining days with electricity before the more stringent regulations
come into force in the New Year

1948
Captain C.R. Benstead, senior proctor of the University, spoke of the lighter side
of proctoring. He said; “How do we know a Girton or Newnham girl when we see one in
the dark without a gown? One night we espied a girl of transcending beauty wheeling
a very academic-looking bicycle. We picked her up – in the proctorial sense! – only
to discover later that she was a bus conductress!”

1923
We are likely to hear a great deal more about proportional representation in the
near future than we have in the past, but I am afraid the country will be chary of
adopting it in view of the hopeless confusion that seems to exist in those places
where the system is already in force. Five years go, after the first instance of
P.R. in Cambridge University I remarked that the general feeling was one of
bewilderment. Now in 1923 we have much the same mistake. A system which has caused
as much confusion in one of the leading universities after five years' experience
would want a mighty lot of explaining to rural divisions

1898
A stroll through Petty Cury, Cambridge and a glance at the shop windows of Boots
Limited gives a good idea of the effort which this firm has made to cater for all
tastes and all classes in the selection of Christmas presents. The windows have
been dressed in a most skilful and artistic fashion and they look very effective.
Articles of every conceivable description are on view and an inspection of the
interior of the shop soon convinces one that for price and quality, the old adage,
"go further and fare worse", very aptly applies. Those desirous of purchasing
suitable presents for their cousins, their aunts, and sweethearts should pay a
visit to Boots, in the Cury

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY
21st December 1973
1973

Total disaster faces the world in about two generations according to Prof Mike
Pentz of the Open University. Speaking in Cambridge he said so much energy is now
being burnt that the temperature of earth’s atmosphere will rise by half a degree.
“This will melt the polar caps and start a runaway reaction which will raise the
ocean levels by a height which will bring about disastrous flooding.” A rise of 100
feet in this country would put Cambridge well beneath the waves.

1948
A further step towards the prevention of flooding in the fen area has been taken in
the building of the Welches Dam pumping station which was officially opened and put
into action. It had been decided that the reconstruction of the Low bank would be
too expensive and there would be a continuous sinking of the peat fenlands behind.
Comparative costs showed that a pumping station would be cheaper that building up
the bank and be the most economical solution.

1923

Ely council considered a scheme for electric lighting. The cost of the plant would
be £10,5000 and would consist of two 100-kilowatt diesel engines, driven direct
current generators, controlling switchboard and distribution panels. The cost of
wiring Ely would be £500 as they had 10 miles to cover. A battery of accumulators
would mean that at night when the engine stopped there would be current if you
switched on

1898
When Judge Hawkins came to Cambridge on one occasion he essayed to bring his dog
with him into Trinity College. But the head porter refused to allow it to be
brought within the precincts and persisted even after it had been made known to him
that it was the dog of one of her Majesty's judges. The judge was angry at the
time, but sent for the head porter and told him that he was right, making him a
present in recognition of his trustworthiness

TUESDAY
22nd December 1973

Cambridge University has been given £10 million to build and endow a new college
for graduate and undergraduate students, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Jack Linnett,
announced today. The lump sum gift has been handed over by the Newmarket racehorse
owner, Mr David Robinson, who started his career at the age of 15 as an apprentice
in his father’s cycle shop in Cambridge. The new college will be built on a 12½
acre site on land bounded by Herschel Road and Grange Road.

1943
Replacing the traditional sound of sleigh bells which usually heralds the arrival
of Father Christmas was the roar of an aeroplane engine when the white-bearded,
red-robed old gentleman landed at Marshall’s airport to attend a Christmas party
being held there for children of the reserves on the station. Signalled in by
coloured flares the Proctor aircraft circled round the airfield and taxied on to
runway where the kiddies were eagerly awaiting him

1923
William Hunt told the court he had a milkround and a general stores at
Haslingfield. In September he was hard pressed for a pony and paid £10 to have one
on trial and then pay so much a month. On the way to Cambridge he, his wife and
children were nearly thrown out on two or three occasions on account of the pony
stumbling. He concluded the pony was not fit. A vet said the horse had several old
scars and he would describe it as broken-kneed. It was not well nourished and was
liable to go down at any moment.

1898
A serious fire occurred at Chippenham. Details now to hand show that the Newmarket
Jockey Club Owners and Trainers Fire Brigade have had an experience such as is
seldom met with, having been on duty upwards of 18 hours, engaged in fighting a
fire which at one time seemed likely to defy all efforts to get it in hand.
Fordham Volunteer Fire Brigade was also sent for. It had been feared that the
church would be endangered and Rev Mr Wickham climbed to the roof and poured water
on the handsome stained glass memorial windows.

WEDNESDAY
23rd December 1973
Cambridge residents spoke about the “bombshell” news that their homes are on the
site proposed for Cambridge university’s new college. Most of them were informed
about the plan 24 hours before the news was announced to the public. One 78-year-
old resident said “The letter from the college came as a horrible shock, just at
Christmas time”

1948
Highlight of the Christmas party held for the old people at the Royal Albert Homes
was to see themselves on screen in a colour film taken by Mr W. King. Other films
included the Queen’s visit to Cambridge, various well-known personalities taking
their degrees at the Senate House and the Accident Prevention Council’s film,
“Almost human”
1923
Cynics have said that toys are but the parental antidote to the infantile
depression resulting from over-eating. Be this as it may, toys are an indispensable
part of Christmas, and the parents who take their children to Laurie and McConnal
will experience considerable difficulty in getting them out again. There are toys
large and small, cheap and expensive, the sort of toys to keep, and the sort to
give to the destructive child. They are also making a special feature of wireless
sets this year, and have a large variety on show

1898
Owing to the mildness of the season, Mr Lewis of Mill Road, Cambridge, is offering
a thousand overcoats at half their original price, so that no one need be without
warm clothing this Christmas time

THURSDAY
24th December 1973

Shoppers in Cambridge defied the gloom of crisis-torn Britain and were out in force
to do their last-minute Christmas shopping. At Woolworth’s in Sidney Street the
manager said: “People are determined to enjoy Christmas despite the gloom and
doom”. Tesco, in Regent Street, said they were fairly busy. The general manager of
Joshua Taylor said that trade was about 20% up compared with last year.

1948
An unusual display of Christmas cheer amid the austerity of today has attracted
considerable attention in Cambridge’s Mill Road. On view and on the premises of
Messrs Roger Harris and Son, family butchers and poultry dealers, are nearly 1,000
birds - and every one is spoken for. Every registered customer who wanted a
Christmas dinner was catered for, and in addition, a few other customers were lucky
enough to place orders. Butcher Harris has made a speciality of Christmas poultry
for years and the display represents 18 years of goodwill and business with local
poultry-keepers

1923
During the past 28 years a police-court missionary has been engaged in the
Cambridge courts. It has for its main object the reformation of all, irrespective
of creed, who pass through the police courts. No matter what the offence or how
often repeated, none are too young to be helped, no criminal too hardened. Almost
every case undertaken means some expenditure. It costs money to provide boots,
clothing, travel expenses and entrance fees to homes and institutions. This is a
period of numerous charitable appeals but we doubt if any object is more worthy of
support and more productive of lasting good.

1898
For some weeks preparations for Christmas time have been going forward, the
markets have teemed with the good things of this life. Cambridge has had its own
share in the general improvement that has taken place and the agricultural district
has reported a better harvest than it has done for many years. We are therefore
justified in holding a merry Christmas - merrier than usual. It is in the hope that
the season that has now begun may be for each one a season of joy that the
Cambridge Daily News wishes its readers – “A merry Christmas”

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 28 Dec 1973

It looked like Sunday in Cambridge yesterday with most of the city’s shops closed,
and only a few people on the streets. Only a few small “corner” grocers and one
supermarket were open for housewives who ran out of essentials. In the city centre
Waring and Gillow, the recently-opened furnishers, began their sale. Most of the
staff of city shops were having the day off after putting in extra time to cope
with the pre-Christmas rush. Most of the shops have used their five days of
electricity and will not be able to use any more until the New Year

1948
A minute or two after midnight on Christmas Eve between 60 and 70 men sat down to
what must been the first Christmas dinner served in Cambridge this year. They were
members of the night operating staff at the Telephone Exchange, and they chose that
unconventional hour because their periods of duty make it difficult for them to
hold a social function at a more normal time. They were served with turkey, plum
pudding and mince pies as they sat at their switchboards.

1923
Cook at the Cambridge workhouse ought to be a proud man, and probably is. The
Christmas fare which he prepared for the inmates was announced to be delicious.
Sausages were served for breakfast in honour of the occasion. All the other
officers from the Master and Matron down have reason to the more than ever
gratified at the results of their labours to make the inmates happy, and to bring
within the walls of even such a dull place as most people imagine a workhouse to
be, the real spirit of Christmas.

1898
Life in the workhouse is not so eventful that Yuletide festivities are looked
forward to with anything but eager anticipation. It is the one important event of
the year, bringing with it liberal fare, relaxation of the necessarily somewhat
stringent rules, visits and gifts from kindly disposed persons, enjoyable
entertainments, and a general air of geniality and heartiness which even those
whose lot has been beset with many misfortunes can enter into. It may safely be
said that in no union are more strenuous efforts made in this direction than at
Chesterton where the capable Master gives the inmates a genuinely happy time

TUESDAY 29th Dec

1973
Home sides routed all opposition at Grantchester in the annual Boxing Day barrel
rolling competition. And not only did the Rose and crown men’s and women’s teams
carry of the 24-dozen bottles of beer between them, they also ensured that it was a
family affair. For with just one exception, the members of the teams were all
related

1948
Cambridge children have rarely been so well catered for with pantomime as they are
this year, with two. It seems an excellent idea as it gives a better chance of
getting a seat at either one or other. The New Theatre, with “Red Riding Hood” have
gone out for a traditional production whereas at the Arts Theatre V.C. Clinton
Baddeley’s “Cinderella” strikes something of a new note, with the accent on charm,
colour and original music.

1923
The satisfaction of the 18 men who spent Christmas at the Cambridge Church Army
Home, Willow Walk may be summed up in the words of one of them – “a very nice time
indeed - splendid”. Their four course Christmas dinner included pork and beef and
Christmas pudding. On Christmas Day they entertained themselves by playing and
singing whilst on Boxing Day they were able to entertain friends. We saw two
enjoying a game of billiards with oranges for balls!
1898
A strange discovery was made on Boxing Day at the Cambridge railway station by a
cleaner. It appears that in the performance of his ordinary duties he was sweeping
the carriages of a London and North Western train working between Cambridge and
Bletchley, when he came across a brown paper parcel concealed under the seat of a
third class compartment. Suspicious of its contents, the man removed it to the
cloak room. The parcel was opened without delay and discovered to contain the dead
body of a newly born male child.

WEDNESDAY 30th December

1973
Saffron Walden printer, Mr Jim Samuels plans to beat next week’s three-day working
week by substituting electric power with pedal power. He has been taking the dust-
covers off an 1893 pedal press which he plans to use when industry in the area will
be without power. “We used the old press when we started Two Jays press, but when
we got automatic machines it went into retirement”, he said. “I shall be doing the
pedalling, its what’s my right leg’s for”

1948
Nearly 800 children crowded into the Rex Ballroom to take part in one of
Cambridge’s gayest Christmas parties. Santa Claus, ice-cream, “pop”, cream cakes,
novelties, lucky dips and games, all played a part in making this a real children’s
party. There was also a conjuring show put on by Bartini, as well as a Punch and
Judy show by Fred Cross and a cabaret by the Barbara Leader School of Dancing

1923
To the majority of Cambridge people the policeman is a man in blue uniform who
apprehends “undergraduates” who ride motor cycles with noisy “silencers". Some 300
of the town's most needy inhabitants however, saw “Robert” in the guise of a cheery
soul on the occasion of the distribution of gifts from the proceeds of the Borough
police poor and needy funds. Some carried sacks of potatoes on their shoulders,
others struggled with sheets of paper in frenzied efforts to wrap meat into neat
and really tidy looking parcels. P.C. Hagger who officiated as executioner in the
meat department looked thoroughly impressive as with a sharp knife and large
chopper he dealt with the meat in a way that would have done credit to the most
finished meat purveyor.

1898
On Christmas Eve the parish authorities at Steeple Morden were called upon to
perform a strange act of seasonal charity. A young woman who had been seen about
the neighbouring villages on the previous day gave birth to a child under a hedge
by the wayside, where she had lain down to sleep, in the bitterly cold weather. The
spot was far from human habitations and when the officials came on the scene they
found the woman in a helpless plight and the new-born child dead by her side. They
had her conveyed to the Union workhouse at Royston.

THURSDAY 31st December

1973
Much of what happens in Newmarket next year will be a continuation of this year’s
events. The by-pass will be opened, the George Lambton playing fields laid out on
the Fordham Road, the Rookery and All Saints’ areas developed and the swimming pool
(maybe) started. But by far the greatest event is one in which the public has not
been much interested – the joining of Newmarket and Mildenhall into one
administrative body, Forest Heath district.

1948
Criticism of the pre-war council was voiced at Chesterton Rural District Council
when the future allocation of permanent houses was discussed. A lot of the troubles
encountered before the war, such as sewerage and drainage faced them now. Mr R.W.
Thulborn said you cannot build up in three years what an old-fashioned council,
that this was before the war, neglected ten years ago. Mr Walkling retorted that
the council’s record as regards housing was second to none, although sewerage was
not quite such an easy job

1923
A healthy sign of the times is shown in the fact that the parcels traffic at the
Cambridge post office was a record one since the war. The public, as usual, did not
take the hint to post early and the consequence was that most of the work had to
the crowded into the 24th, which was a tremendous day for the staff. The regular
staff worked magnificently and was augmented by temporary helpers secured through
the Labour Exchange A sad feature was that some 40 of these were engaged last year
also and one does not like to think they have been unemployed during the whole of
the year

1898

Mrs Fordham, who lived near the village schoolhouse at Stetchworth saw flames
issuing from the top part of a thatched cottage occupied by a labourer named Gates.
As she looked the flames spread to and ignited the roof of an adjoining habitation.
She at once informed a neighbour who lost no time in running into the Live and Let
Live inn and telling the news. Several men who were in the bar rushed out and were
soon at work trying to stop the fire. The strong wind was wafting large pieces of
burning thatch in all directions and it was feared these would set on fire other
buildings. A heavy rain assisted in preventing the spread by thoroughly damping the
thatch of cottages nearby.

FRIDAY
1st January 1999

1974
There will not be any startling New Years resolutions from Haverhill Urban Council
chamber for they already have one: “We must build more houses or we’ll be in
trouble.” For though the town’s new industry boom has reached its highest ever
peak, the council’s housing pool is probably at its lowest ever level. They wanted
to carry on building back in 1971 when there were 480 homes still free. But Greater
London Council said: “We’ll stop building for a while”. By the end of 1972 the
influx of new workers from London had shot up so fast that there were just 46 empty
houses.

1949
After a final interview with the Ministry of Health Royston Urban District Council
have now almost completed the details of taking over the huts occupied in the Heath
P.o.W. camp. Details fixed were that a supply of electricity should be made
available, that water supply be given to each hut and sinks fitted where necessary.
Fixed baths be not fitted, but each hut be provided with a galvanised portable
bath, and also an electric wash boiler with a draw-off to the bath

1924
 In accordance with time-honoured custom, Cambridge both marked the parting year
and welcomed 1924 with rockets fired by Mr Arthur Deck from Parker's Piece. By
11.55 quite a large crowd of hardy souls appeared from nowhere in particular and
when the first rocket went they numbered well over a hundred. As the second rocket
went up to welcome the New Year one could not help speculating on the hopes and
aspirations of that faithful few who in a penetrating drizzle looked up to the sky
and welcomed another year of work and play. The solemn singing of “Auld Lang Syne”
over the crowd faded as silently as it had come

1899
Nearly three weeks ago the Cambridge Daily News notified the disappearance a
notorious character. “Carrie”, as she was colloquially called, was well known to
many Cambridge inhabitants as a person to be pitied and commiserated with. To even
touch the fringe of the life she led from her girlhood onward is to reveal a story
of sordid struggle, squalid surroundings, of inebriety and dissipation. Many of
rumours that were set afloat on her disappearance by the gossips in the vicinity of
Newmarket road, where the unfortunate woman existed – one cannot say lived – were
highly sensational. Yesterday her body was taken from the river

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 4th January

1974
Council offices in the Cambridge area are making the most of daylight hours to beat
the power crisis by opening earlier and closing as soon as darkness falls when
there is no electricity. Chesterton and South Cambridgeshire Rural Councils are now
both closing at 3.30 pm on the non-electricity days of Monday, Tuesday and
Wednesday. St Neots urban council open half and hour early and their dinner break
is cut to 30 minutes. Their offices are managing to maintain near-normal hours with
oil lamps.

1949
A gay and happy capacity crowd at the Rex Ballroom, Cambridge wore gay coloured
hats, and joined in carol and community singing which was well-backed by Ken Turner
and his orchestra. As midnight drew near “Old Father Time,” retreated as the young
fairy (Little Miss Paulette Martin) for 1949 advanced amid great cheers. During the
evening the manager announced that the Rex was to have a new sprung floor, which
will be installed shortly

1924
The former Clocks and Gramophone Works at Huntingdon have been purchased by the
firm of J. E. Hough Ltd of the Edison Bell Works, Peckham, and are to be opened
early this year for the manufacture of gramophone records and wireless parts.
Employment to between 300 and 400 hands will be given by this new industry. The
factory has remained inactive for a year and the town has suffered as a result. It
will be used for making the well known “Winner” records. Powerful engines still in
the building will be made use of, but it will also be necessary to introduce
additional steam power and heat

1899
As 12 o'clock draws near on New Year's Eve in Cambridge the interest of the crowd
is directed towards the House of Alderman Deck. For many years he has made himself
responsible for a display of rockets on King's Parade as the Old Year gives place
to the New; and he is not going disappoint his fellow townspeople tonight. Just a
few minutes before twelve he leaves his house and set up the stand from which two
rockets are to be fired on the causeway in front of the gates of King's College.
While the expectant crowd eagerly looks on, he lights a fuse and just on the first
stroke of twelve the first rocket, that in honour of the Old Year, is set off. It
has hardly completed its flight when another rocket, that in honour of the New
Year, shoots up into the sky

TUESDAY 5th January

1974
Something of the wartime spirit has crept into Mid-Anglian managements who are
faced with the three-day electric week and oil shortages. The Pye Group employ a
large percentage of women, so they don’t want to ask them to work Saturdays, as the
power rota demands, because of family commitments. So they will be using generators
to give basic power on the other days, and will do as much as possible on those
days that does not need power tools. They'll also cut down the lunch break

1949
When visiting the county hospital, Mill Road, Cambridge, the Mayoress saw the
hospital’s “miracle baby” and heard from the Matron (Mrs D. Ditchburn) how this
baby, premature and weighing 3lb 1 oz at birth and kept in an oxygen tent, has
survived three relapses when blood transfusions and oxygen had to be given, and now
at 3 ½ months weighs 6 ½ lbs and is making steady progress. In the fight to keep
her alive she has been given penicillin and streptomycin and the sulphonamide
drugs.

1924
Two young men, who are alleged to have broken and entered Girton College and
stolen a number of articles on Boxing Day appeared in court. It was stated by Supt.
Allen that the men took him round the college and showed the rooms they had
entered, and one of them showed him a lady's bed in which he had slept for the
night, after borrowing a pair of pyjamas from the next room

1899
A most extraordinary story has just come to light respecting the matrimonial
affairs of a young woman residing in Cambridge. It appears she has been keeping
company with a young man who lived away from Cambridge and it was arranged that the
wedding should take place on Christmas Day. It transpired however that the laws
with respect to residence in the district had not been complied with and the
wedding was postponed until Sunday. The appointed hour drew near, but no bridegroom
turned up, nor has he been seen since. Upon being shown the groom’s photograph a
police officer identified him as being “wanted” in connection with an assault which
has since proved fatal. It is hoped the efforts of the police to bring such a
heartless fellow to justice will prove successful

WEDNESDAY 6th January

1974
One of Cambridge’s finest medieval buildings, the Abbey House in Abbey Road, was
formally presented to the city council as a gift from the Cambridge Folk Museum.
The house was originally given to the museum in 1946 by the first Lord Fairhaven
who had hoped it would be an enlarged Folk Museum. But the curator, Miss Enid
Porter, said he had come to realise the building was just not suitable and the
museum did not have the resources to keep the house in good repair

1949
The name of Joan Metcalfe is known throughout Cambridge and the shire, and her
pupils have gained a worthy reputation wherever they have performed. Her yearly
pantomimes are looked forward to by a large number of people. “The Sleeping Beauty”
is this year’s choice. Undisputed star of the show is Joan Rolph who takes the role
of the wicked fairy. Eileen Brown as the title character gives a very sincere
performance. Both Jesse Brown as the King, and Vera Germany, as the Queen, have
been very well chosen.

1924
Sir - may I protest against the insanity and disgusting habit of indiscriminate
spitting, and the inveterate noxious habit of dropping dirty pieces of paper and
orange peel everywhere about the pavement. And will the police also take steps to
deal with the unspeakable nuisance in our crowded streets of the inconsiderate pram
driver, whether charging or dawdling, which are a public nuisance every day of the
week and on Saturdays maddening. Why should not these vehicles, which tend by
fashion to become more and more ponderous and bulky, be completely forbidden in the
main streets and be relegated to the two feet of roadway below the kerb stones all
times.- Pro Bono Publico

1899
However poor the local newspaper its files are the best source of information as
to what has taken place in the district. It is only in the British Museum that
files of the newspapers are preserved as a matter of course. In places where there
are free libraries a good deal is done but very often the files are incomplete and
in some cases the importance of preserving these records is not realised as it
ought to be. County councils should undertake the work of filing these newspapers,
of binding the volumes and keeping them in a place ready of access by the public

THURSDAY 7th January

1974
Many more young people are sleeping rough in and around Cambridge than anyone has
estimated. A man who has slept rough for the last 30 years says he knows of about
100 people aged from 17 to 30 sleeping out in woods and fields around Cambridge.
But his estimate has been rejected as “exaggeration” by the rector of Girton, who
has been helping to tackle the problem

1949
Several Cambridge shops have their January sales in full swing. Messrs W. Eaden
Lilley, Market Street, find that the possibility of the ending of clothes rationing
is having a psychological effect. “People are inclined to be a bit rash with their
coupons and the half-price, half-price coupon goods are going well”. Messrs G.
Stace, Petty Cury, have cleared some of their Old Look stock and a number of suits
have been sold at a quarter of their price - £20 coats at £4.19s.6d. It was pointed
out that the “shorter lady” scores, as some of the old length garments look new
length on her

1924
A man appeared in court charged with stealing two flannel shirts, four soft
collars and a pair of socks. Alastair Watson, an undergraduate of Magdalene
College, said prisoner had been in his employ as a chauffeur. He instructed him to
collect his clothing and hunting kit from Cambridge & drive the car Leamington.
When he did not arrive Watson made inquiries at Marshall’s garage at Jesus Lane and
his car was bought by one of Marshall’s mechanics.

1899
Cambridge is by no means only place where little boys openly indulge in cigarette
smoking. For youngsters this premature smoking is undoubtedly harmful. Up to the
age of 21 every person should be a total abstainer from tobacco. Nevertheless while
smoking by children is greatly to be deprecated there are not many that would go to
the length of proposing that a by-law should be passed prohibiting smoking in the
streets by children under 13. It is too late in the day: if his parents and
teachers cannot cure him of the habit, it is to be feared that the task must be
given as hopeless

FRIDAY 8th January

1974
House prices are still falling in Mid Anglia. Even after a £1,000 tumble in the
last six months further falls are expected. Until now the brunt of the drop has
been carried by standard three-bedroomed homes in the £10-£12,000 price range. It
appears unlikely the housing market will move out of stagnation until three-
bedroomed semis are on sale from around £9,500. The Cambridge Building Society said
“We have funds for members, but with interest at 11% house buying is not very brisk

1949
A chase through streets “more reminiscent of what one sees on the American films
than in an academic town”, was described when a corporal in the RAF police was
charged with using a revolver to prevent lawful apprehension and stealing £500. At
the time of the offence he was acting as armed escort to F/Lt Goldie of RAF
station, Oakington, who collected the money from a Cambridge bank.

1924
Mr Hobson said the present state of houses in Comberton was deplorable. There were
people living in two rooms, married couples with grown up sons and daughters
practically herded together like sheep in a fold. It was not the better class of
home that was required but the house suitable for a working man. It was not
necessary to select the most expensive sites, right in the centre of the village,
from where a labouring man often had to walk two miles to work

1899
Joseph Redfarn, butcher of Mill Road, Cambridge stated he was walking by a shop in
Gwydir Street. He saw a row of foot baths and pails standing in the gutter and on
the roadway. About an hour afterwards he repassed the shop in a trap. The sun was
shining on the pails and caused the horse he was driving to shy. The animal then
went on to the path and fell, breaking the shaft off the cart. The defendant said
one of his assistants put some pails and baths outside the front of the shop for
the purpose of loading them on the van which was going out to the country. Another
quantity of galvanised goods were bought to his shop by a G.N.R van
LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 11TH January

1974
People living at Swaffham Bulbeck are being asked by the Cambridgeshire planners to
tell them whether they would prefer an expensive bypass built around the village or
a cheaper, shorter road between the two main built-up areas. The new road is needed
to do away with the three right-angle bends in the centre of the village.

1948
While New Year’s eve celebrations were taking place at the Airport Hotel,
Teversham, a builder’s labourer broke into the proprietor’s sitting-room and stole
a wireless set and cake knife. Evidence of seeing a wireless valve lying on the
grass verge was given. As it was there the next morning the witness picked it up.
The same afternoon he noticed a wireless set inside the Cemetery railings.

1924
Cambridge must face the growing danger and disaster of its housing shortage. In
our not very large town between 7 and 800 families are in immediate need of a
house, not because they are unemployed, or very poor, or in any way unable to pay a
fair rent, but because there are no houses for them to go into. Families are
divided. The husband is here where his work lies, the wife and children are living
elsewhere. Some dare not have children. Others have them and find that they are no
longer welcome tenants. It is not easy for a young wife and mother to make good
when her two rooms are rented and when the use of the kitchen, bathroom and
lavatory by her family are looked upon as an intrusion.

1899
The licensee of the Rising Sun inn at Isleham was charged with permitting gambling
on his premises by raffling. P.C. Plumb said he found 20 men sitting in a back room
and on a table was a basin. He saw a man throw dice from a dice box into the basin
as he entered. Defendant acknowledged that raffling had been going on for a goose
all day and a lot of bad characters were present. The goose had been won and taken
away long before the constable visited the place.

TUESDAY 12th January

1974
Cambridge has escaped lightly so far from the effects of the three-day working
week. Only about 250 workers are being paid benefits by the Department of
Employment. The vast majority of those temporarily laid off are receiving benefits
from their own firms under a “do-it-yourself dole” scheme. The firms will be
reimbursed later by the Department. At Saffron Walden the town’s largest firm,
Acrow Engineering Ltd, are treating Thursdays and Fridays, when industry in the
area is without power, as part of their workers’ normal holiday entitlement

1949
One New Year news item which will cause the fair sex to rejoice is the announcement
that nylons will be coming back into the shops in 1949. Supplies were cut off last
February when the export drive started but though the Board of Trade now promise
more for the home market it may be many months before they are available. The
quantity is not specified, but Mr Harold Wilson (President of the Board of Trade)
says there will be “many more”

1924
Ely Urban District Council proposed to erect 10 houses at Prickwillow, where they
were most urgently needed and 20 at Chief’s Lane, Ely. The question arose as to the
distance the houses would be set back from the road, taking into consideration the
dust. Mr Laxton said tenants would rather have less front garden and more back to
grow “taties”.

1899
At Guildhall, London, a Cottenham Butcher was summoned for being the owner of four
quarters of pork which were deposited in the Central Meat Market for the purpose of
sale, the same being diseased and totally unfit for human food. The meat was in a
filthy condition. Defendant said: “I ate the head and kidneys and drink the gravy,
the meat was fit to eat”. Superintendent Burrow of the Cambridgeshire Constabulary
said he knew the man and believed he would eat anything. He lived in a wretched
shed, the stench from which was abominable.

WEDNESDAY 13th January

1974
With heavy symbolism and an optimism to fight the gloom of the national crisis,
Cambridge’s erstwhile unlit Christmas lights were lit up in all their glory last
night. At least a small group of them in Sidney Street were aglow for just two
minutes. In the face of the ban on public decorative lighting the Chamber of
Commerce could not have the cheerful Christmas light gaiety in the city centre.
But, because they had bought new lights, they thought they would like at least a
glimpse of what might have been, had it not been for the Government bans.

1949
Ten home-growing tobacco enthusiasts have formed a Cambridge group of the National
Amateur Tobacco Growers Association. At present there are 20 members and it felt
that as tobacco has been grown with success in the past in Cambridgeshire, added
interest would be taken if a local group were established. Its policy is to get
local “back-garden” growers together to exchange seeds and plants and set up their
own curing and manufacturing facilities

1924
The inquest on a Girton man who died from lock jaw following an injury to his nose
caused by walking into a tumbrel cart in the dark was held at Addenbrooke’s
hospital . Witness said the cart was standing on the Green and the man ran straight
into it. He was bleeding from a cut on the bridge of the nose so he took him to the
district nurse who dressed the wound with iodine and lint. His sister said she got
him a cup of beef tea but he could not open his mouth. Dr Lund administered anti-
tetanus serum but it was too later and he died.

1899
Within 10 miles of Cambridge in the centre of a respectable clean village, a man
has been existing in a state which would have been discreditable to the savage,.
The shed is constructed of two rough brick walls, the dilapidations of which are
filled in with mud and clay. For a roof there is a collection of boughs of trees
and other pieces of odd wood, with an apology for thatch made of garden and field
refuse. In one of the walls there are two casements stuffed up with old pieces of
rag and sacking. At first sight one would think that it was an old disused piggery,
too wretched even for swine, but the interior is a thousand times worse

THURSDAY 14th January

1974
When Cyril Brady started in a Cambridge estate agents and valuers a new semi-
detached house in the city sold for £425 cash or you could rent it for 14s.9d. a
week. Now those same houses run to five figures and rent comes out at around £40 a
month, unfurnished. The figures reflect the changes in the 41 years that Mr Brady
has been in partnership which has been running under the name of Catling, Brady and
Bliss since 1969.

1949
The Lancaster squadrons of the No.3 Bomber Group at present stationed at
Stradishall, are shortly to move to Mildenhall. The change has been made necessary
because the run-ways at “Strad” are no longer capable of taking heavy bombers. The
future of this famous war-time airfield, still one of the most attractive and best
equipped in the country, is uncertain. Lighter aircraft might operate from the
runways or they may be relaid to take the heaviest type of bomber at present in
service with the RAF

1924
At Bottisham police court a woman was charged with stealing four pairs of woollen
stockings, two flannel vests and one shawl to the value of £1 the property of the
mental hospital Fulbourn. She went in the shop of Messrs Morley & co and offered
two flannel vests and a shawl for pawn. The assistant noticed there were two pieces
torn out of the vest. The mental Superintendent said it had a pink mark under a
seam with some wool stitched over it. She was bound over in the sum of 10 pounds
1899
Sir - I should like to know how it is the children who come over a mile to Girton
school cannot be provided with a little water to drink, as there is a well and a
pump not 50 yards from the school doors. Some of the cottagers compare its water to
Monkey Brand soap - it is not fit to wash clothes. If you put it in a copper and
boil it there is a scum like yeast. It is no use letting the water be consumed and
disease spread - Neptune

FRIDAY 15th January

1974

The economic crisis has forced a Haddenham baker to cut his van deliveries by half,
leaving an estimated 600 customers in Cottenham, Haddenham and Wilburton to find
alternative suppliers of their daily bread. Mr John Wright said that he was pulling
three of his five vans off the road permanently. The national association of master
bakers said the profit margin per loaf was too small to make van deliveries
economically viable. Barker’s bakery, Betabake and the Co-operative Society all
have shops in Cottenham

1949
The college of Corpus Christi will be the scene of an unusually interesting dinner
– the Queenborough Feast. It will be the first of its kind and will link university
and town in a very happy way. When in 1948 Lord Queenborough gave to the college an
endowment for a feast he expressed the hope that representatives of the corporation
and of the citizens of Cambridge would be the principal guests in order that the
ties between borough and college might thereby be recognised and strengthened, The
college owes its origin to two Cambridge guilds which consisted very largely of
citizens of Cambridge.

1924
Isle of Ely County Council are prepared to declare the road from Ely to
Prickwillow and thence to Mile End drove and Mildenhall road a main road, subject
to certain improvements including the abolition of the tolls collected at
Prickwillow by the Burnt Fen and Middle Fen commissioners. The tolls being
discontinued it was resolved that the toll gates at Prickwillow be taken by the
Superintendent and notices as to the collection of tolls be removed from the toll
house.

1899
At Royston Petty sessions a tramp described as a tailor out of employment was
charged with feloniously stealing a pair of boots valued at 4s.11d. Prisoner was
attired in a pair of policeman's trousers, with no boots on his feet, and only one
sock. Joseph Reynolds, assistant to a baker in Gas road, Royston stated he saw
prisoner against Mr Woods, the fishmongers shop. He saw him take a pair of boots
which were hanging outside Messrs Soundy and Powell’s shop. He gave information to
P.C. Cookney of what he had seen

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 18th January

1974
Women’s libbers pulled off a master stroke when they won equal rights in
Huntingdon’s new working men’s club being built on the town’s housing estate. And
minutes after the decision was announced, the first woman was voted onto the
management committee of the 700-member BRJ club under construction at Sallowbush
road. Not content with their victory, the women are also demanding that as the men
have had two fund-raising stag nights they should have the chance of a hen party

1949
The Queen, Queen Mary and Princess Margaret arrived in Cambridge by road from
Sandringham to visit Mr Stanley Woolston’s antique shop in St Andrew’s street. They
were welcomed by an unusually large “arrival” crowd which had started gathering
about half-an-hour earlier. The concentration of police in the area had a
magnetising effect. The Queen wore a dress and coat of rich purple, with matching
felt hat and sling-back skin shoes, and silver grey fox furs. The hat was trimmed
with veiling and small purple flowers. The crowd swelled steadily until there were
several hundreds lining both sides of the pavements. The Queen was chatting when
she walked from the shop to the car, and those nearest were honoured with the
lovely, charming well-known smile

1924
The marvellous progress that is being made in that wonderful institution, Papworth
Tuberculosis Colony, was described by Dr P.C.Varrier - Jones. He showed a very
interesting film illustrating activities of the colony taken last summer. Men were
seen at work in the various workshops and there were pictures depicting all the
other sides of life at the colony, and showing the beautiful grounds laid out with
charming effect.

1899
A very pleasant evening may be spent at the Red Cow Inn Concert Hall, Cambridge.
The best of local talent is requisitioned and the concert hall promises to have a
run of uninterrupted success, judging by the support which has already been given
to the new venture. Its American bowling saloon is now also open

TUESDAY 19th January

1974
The number of books borrowed from libraries in the region since the early tv
closedown came into force has gone up considerably. Late evening boredom in
Huntingdon and St Neots has, according to the county librarian, Mr Reg Keyworth,
given rise to a “substantial increase” in the number of books being taken out.
“People have been coming into the libraries saying they are bored and want
something to read because of the earlier television closing down times” he said.

1949
The Cambridge trades fair was officially opened in the Corn Exchange. Among the
exhibitors Messrs Alkit show a special January offer of made-to-measure utility
suits and suede boottees with crepe souls. Messrs Coads are featuring a wide range
of children’s clothing from baby to teen age. Messrs J. A. Easton ltd are
displaying demonstrations of a “Kara” permanent cold wave hair styling scalp
treatments, chiropody and cosmetics. On the stand of Messrs Miller & sons ltd, is a
fine display of reconditioned pianos and the newest models of radio and television,
displays being given daily

1924
Nearly 100 inmates of the Ely workhouse were entertained with a dinner. The chief
course was good English rabbits, served up in very appetising fashion, mashed
potatoes, plum pudding, beer and minerals. Finally a flashlight photograph was
taken, much to the astonishment and delight of some of the aged inmates.

1899
A fire which might have resulted in a very large amount of destruction broke out in
Petty Cury, Cambridge. Mr Baynes, manager to Messrs Pollard and company,
confectioners informed police constable Leonard Savidge at 1.15am that his wife
could smell something burning. It was discovered there was a fire at the back of
the adjoining shop occupied by Mr George Jackson, butter merchant. The constable
ascended to the roof but was unable to get into the yard. Mr Baynes obtained some
buckets of water from a tap on the premises and handed them up to him to pour on
the flames. Acting sergeant Wright on going into Caxton Court from Sydney Street,
found a ladder by which means he got over the wall and there found that a butter
barrel, containing a quantity of paper was on fire. There was a considerable
quantity of empty boxes and other inflammable goods about the yard and if they had
become ignited there would have been disastrous results

WEDNESDAY 20th January

1974
Cambridge’s new export club got off to a great start at the inaugural meeting. The
three men who promoted the idea expected four or five people to turn up, have a
chat over a pint and then go home. As it was, 40 enthusiastic men and one woman
involved in both export marketing and the movement of products made in mid-Anglia
agreed the scheme was a “must” for Cambridge – and forthwith set up a committee to
get things moving

1949
Making its first visit to the New Theatre, Cambridge, next week is a show that has
a world-wide reputation – Ralph Reader’s famous “Gang Show”. His great team of
airmen, in the main artistes of great professional experience, put on shows which
were a source of delight to millions of British and allied fighting men and women.
And so wherever “Gang Show” played those dark days were made brighter for those
grand audiences.

1924
The railway strike has now begun, and reduced services are everywhere being run.
No Cambridge locomotive man has taken an engine out of the sheds this morning, said
W Few, secretary of the local branch of ASLEF at their headquarters, the Kingston
cafe, Mill road. “The whole of our members, with the exception of 2, have ceased to
work and if any driver in the NUR of whom there are 20 at Cambridge, signs on duty,
there is no firemen to work with him”. Tomorrow a large covered-in motor charabanc
will leave the Ortona depot for London King's Cross At 8.30. The return fare is
12s.6d.

1899
Herbert Varlow, an agricultural and general engineer, residing and carrying on
business at Benwick, Ely, claimed £500 from an engineer and wheelwright of West Fen
engine, March. He stated the defendant wrote and published an advertisement in the
"Peterborough Advertiser" intending to convey the meaning that his business was for
sale and he had become insolvent. As a consequence two customers had broken off
business. After the advertisement had appeared his creditors “well rounded on him”,
several pressed him and one issued a writ. The defendant was a trade rival of his.
The jury awarded him £150 damages

THURSDAY 21st January

1974
Pedal power has taken the “Cambridge Evening News” boardroom by storm. Former chair
and car-bound executives and cycling to appointments on bicycles to beat the petrol
shortage. Leading the two-wheel revolution is the deputy chairman and Managing
Director, Mr Anthony Durham closely followed by the “News” editor, Mr Nicholas
Herbert. Mr Durham, with cycle clips protecting his pin-stripe suit, has personally
tested four cycles bought for staff and found them the ideal answer to the city’s
one-way systems and parking problems but staff will not be forced to use them

1949
During the war the Tabernacle Methodist Church in Newmarket road, Cambridge, was
closed and the property sold. The history of the church went back over many years,
having its early beginnings in the old Fitzroy Street chapel. There were hopes that
at some future date the work so nobly done by the two old chapels would be carried
on. In the very near future some of these hopes may be realised, as the trustees
intend to acquire the piece of land adjoining the YWCA hall and opposite the
Borough cemetery, Newmarket road, for the purpose of commencing a new Methodist
cause

1924
Councillor Gentle raised the question of the removal of the tram rails along King's
Parade and Trumpington Street, Cambridge. He had had complaints, and their removal
would give employment. Alderman Stanley said that if one was cycling along the
Parade the rails made it most dangerous. The reason they were not taken up was
because King's Parade was a new round, and it would be a waste of money to do it
now. They desired to wait until the road needed substantial repair and then do the
work.

1899
The telegraph service in Cambridge is insufficient as the Telegraph office is
closed at 10 o'clock. Only a few years ago it kept open until eleven. In villages
whose residents seldom need to send a telegram at night the outlay would not be
justified but as far as Cambridge is concerned an all night service would be very
much appreciated. The cost would be small in comparison to the convenience
afforded. When it is borne in mind that the university has ties with all part of
the world, can it be doubted that it is very often a matter of great inconvenience
that it is impossible to send a message by telegram, between 10 at night and eight
in the morning?

FRIDAY 22nd January

1974
Villagers at Elsworth who look to the church clock to get the right time may be
unlucky in a few days. For the church authorities are unable to get at the winding
mechanism of the clock since thieves stole the key to the tower of the church. Mr
Kenneth Hollier said “We can’t get into the tower to have the clock wound, so it
will start to run down within a few days”. The thieves also took the key to the
west door of the church.

1949
Miss D.G. Nicholls made a spirited protest at the decision to refuse permission to
develop a site off Fulbourn Old Drift for staff cottages for the Cambridgeshire
Mental Hospital. She said the site had been chosen because it was within easy reach
in case emergency. Staffing difficulties at the Hospital were “almost impossible”
because of housing. Members of the staff were resigning because they could no
longer live away from their wives and some were still having to sleep in rooms off
wards of noisy, demented patients.

1924
 At the County Council Miss Cochrane moved that the lark be included in the list of
birds protected during the whole of the year. A Caxton farmer told her they did no
harm, and yet a large number of them were caught every winter, and they were
getting scarce. She believed they kept very much to their particular district and
would not fly into other areas. Councillor Jackson said there was no doubt the
larks which sang in the summer did little harm, but there was another kind of lark
that came over in huge migratory flocks and did a great deal of damage. The
greatest enemies of the birds are telegraph wires and snowstorms. The motion was
lost

1899
Sir - there are many schools that have no water supply at all on their own
premises, where the children have to depend on “kind and motherly” neighbours who
are good enough to attend to the children's wants in this respect. I do not know
how many children attend Girton school but can only feel amazed at the task of the
kind neighbour who was equal to the work of filtering and supplying the thirsty
little throats of the village school children during such a drought as we
experienced in 1898. She is undoubtedly well worthy of an honourable position in
the annals of Girton - Rusticus

LOOKING BACK by Mike Petty

MONDAY 25th January

1974

Many Cambridge Scots have been spared the disappointment of a Burns Night without
haggis thanks to a 120-mile “mercy dash” by a city butcher. Because of rail and
post problems the supplies to Mr Derek Traylen, a Newmarket road butcher dried up
over Christmas which left many of his regular customers without haggis for
Hogmanay. So with Buns Night coming up he decided that he could not let his
regulars go without again. His Glasgow suppliers were unable to send a normal
parcel because of the train drivers industrial action but they could send his
delivery direct to Euston station. So Mr Traylen drove to London and picked up
about 2 cwt of haggis yesterday

1949
Cambridgeshire County Council expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of progress
in the installation of sewerage plants. Ald. Taylor said, “The earth closets have
nearly gone and pails have to be used. Do you know what the poor man has to do? He
has to take the pail to his garden every night”. Counc. Burkitt said many poor
people had no gardens and had to cycle sometimes long distances to dispose of the
contents of the pails.

1924
The railway strike proceeds at Newmarket with much less inconvenience to the public
than once anticipated. There are few hurdle racehorses here and these can be
provided for by road motor horse boxes. There are four passenger trains running to
Newmarket and on Wednesday one luggage train ran from Ipswich with seven wagons
containing flour and heavy goods. Lighter goods are arriving by passenger train.
Opinion here is hopeful the drivers will accept the offer to close the strike

1899
A sad affair has occurred at Linton which resulted in the death of an eleven year
old girl. The mother was seen to be taking the child to the railway station. It was
noticed that the girl was ill, and clung to the fence. When at the station she
collapsed, and slipping off the seat, was put back again with some force. At this
time she was foaming at the mouth and became unconscious. Mr D.B. Herbert, the
station master, acted in a most remain way and had the girl removed to his house.
The doctor found she was suffering from malignant scarlet fever and she died the
same evening

TUESDAY 26th January

1974

South Cambridgeshire Rural Council are considering a plan to create a new village
near Duxford airfield using the 150 houses on the 30-acre airmen’s married quarters
site as a nucleus. It would be a completely new village with its own community hall
and centre. Cambridgeshire planners are hoping to develop a large open air sports
complex on the 600-acre airfield which closed down some years ago

1949
A hoax played on Cambridge, when notices appeared announcing a mass patriotic rally
to be held on Parker’s Piece which would be addressed by Sir Oswald Mosley and
other members of his party, had a sequel at the Magistrates court when an
undergraduate of Trinity college appeared on a summons of fixing one of the
pamphlets to a tree on Parker’s Piece. Defendant said: “I did it to annoy the
communists”.

1924
A particularly sad story was related to the Cambridge coroner when an inquiry was
held into the death of a 18 year old student at Girton College. The girl, who was
stated to be fond of rock climbing, attempted to ascend the Tower of the college
with the intention of seeing an owls nest. Apparently she slipped and fell to the
ground. From the injuries sustained to her legs she evidently alighted on her feet,
which goes to prove that she hung on somewhere for a moment before she fell. Before
she died she had said, “I so wanted to see the little owls”.

1899
One of the largest fires which have occurred in Chippenham broke out on Monday
night. It appears that captain Howlett was in the village on fire brigade business
connected with the previous fire, when a boy dashed in shouting that the barn at
the rear of the Tharp Arms public house was on fire. He lost no time in wiring for
as the Newmarket and Fulbourn Fire Brigade. Twenty villagers mounted the roof of a
long range of thatched cottages in Church Lane and passed buckets from man to man
in order to prevent the flames which were now licking the cottages. By sheer hard
work the fire was held in check until the brigade arrived. They pulled down all
places or goods in the vicinity which seemed likely to ignite and were able to
confine the outbreak to something like reasonable proportions. Without the army of
helpers the whole of the village lying to windward of the outbreak would probably
have been involved

WEDNESDAY 27th January

1974

Supplies of foodstuffs and household goods in Cambridge have been disrupted by the
national crisis, but there is no need for panic buying, said store managers.
Customers have flocked to buy toilet rolls, and stocks at Woolworth’s have been
exhausted. Supplies of paper and plastic based products have suffered because of
world shortages. But food is plentiful, partially because the food industry are
exempt from Government restrictions on power
1949

“Down Your Way” came down this way when a BBC mobile recording unit spent a day
“canning” material for next Sunday’s broadcast in the Light Programme. Various
personalities of the town, university and district were interviewed by Richard
Dimbleby.. Amongst them were Mr R. Shorrock who works for Pest Control Ltd, Miss M.
Stuart, secretary of the Arts Theatre, Mr Fred Hudson, a television tester at Pye
Ltd, Mrs Maltby who made the robe in which the Queen received her honorary degree,
and Mr R, J. Pointer who is a CND linotype operator

1924
Mr W Cross of Northfield Farm, Exning has a sow which in 341 days, has farrowed 51
pigs of which 46 are alive or are gone to the butchers. Several weighed_154 lbs at
20 weeks old. The sow was bred by Mr Robert Stephenson at Manor House Burwell

1899
Sir - your correspondent appears to forget that where there is a village school
there is generally a village. The children obtain at home most of the water they
drink. In the dinner hour and in the intervals in the midst of morning and
afternoon school, the thirsty little ones can, as a rule, run to their parents’
house for what they require. There is ample supply always ready for the little
scholars from a distance, who eat their dinners on school premises, and at other
times no really thirsty child is sent away empty. It should be remembered that the
hottest weather generally occurs in the harvest holidays. During the time I have
been a manager of the school at Girton, I have never had a complaint about the
water supply from child, or parent or teacher. It is unfortunately true that many
children come to our school in a very dirty condition - J D Lawrence

THURSDAY 28th January

1974

A United States air force sergeant who defied the military haircut regulations, was
driven off to start four months detention and hard labour – to a rousing chorus of
“Haircut Rebel” songs from sympathisers. The Vietnam war veteran with a Good
Conduct medal had been found guilty at USAF Alconbury court martial of eight
charges involving his refusal to trim his hair, moustache and side burns. After the
trial he said: “I have a constitutional right to wear my hair as I please. When
they cut my hair at the detention centre I will go the whole way and shave my head,
my legs and my arm pits.”

1949

Cambridge town council debated regrading of council employees. Counc. Edwards said
20 years ago they were “stampeded into a merry-go-round the municipal mulberry
bush” when an officer asked for an increase in salary and it was thought that he
would leave if it were not granted. We have been dancing round it ever since. The
old argument was that if these people were not given increases they would take up
better posts with the hospitals board and other government departments. “But what
would have happened had one of these gentlemen died? Would the corporation have
stopped? No, someone else would have been found to take his place”

1924
The 203rd Field Company (Cambs) Royal Engineers celebrated their fifth reunion and
dinner. In January 1915 the War Office had asked whether an engineering company
could be raised in Cambridge. Great efforts were made but many of the youth had
already joined other units. However a start in recruiting was begun and they were
able to get a few men together. Their headquarters were in East road but when
numbers began to increase they had moved to Ely, March, Whittlesey and afterwards
Wisbech. They had no regular Engineer officer to take command of the unit but that
grand old volunteer, Colonel Harding, although he was then nearly 70 years of age,
undertook the job.

1899
The subjugation of England to golf proceeds at a rapid race. Cambridge has already
done homage to the Scottish game, and announcements made this week on behalf of
Caius College shows that the pipularity is still on the increase. Caius propose to
devote about 250 acres of land on the Gog Magog hills to the formation of a golf
links. A suggested course of 18 holes has already been staked out by Duncan, the
professional.

FRIDAY 29th January

1974

Meldreth has nearly doubled its population during the past 10 years from less than
900 in 1962 to about 1900. About one third of the population increase could be
attributed to the Manor School run by the Spastics Society. It is now the major
source of employment in the village although the biggest employers are the Atlas
Stone Co. Ltd. just outside the village. Planners say the electrification of the
Royston – Kings Cross railway line will undoubtedly create development pressures.

1949

A bicycle appeared on the weather vane of the Cambridge school of geography,

Downing Place, over the weekend. Various articles are put on university buildings
from time to time, but usually without much point. This escapade has a real point
to it. The weather vane is on the roof where weather observation is carried on,
with the aid of rain graphs, thermometers, barographs and other meteorological
equipment. The practical joker apparently thought it would be a good idea to give
the meteorologists a new weather cycle.

1924
The driver of a steam wagon belonging to a Birkenhead haulage contractor said he
was driving from Cambridge to Chatteris with a trailer attached. He left Cambridge
about 7.45 pm and intended to get there some time in the morning. On the way he
stopped to put water into the engine from a pond. The engine was in a bad state on
account of their having had to use dirty ditch water, and it would not travel at
more than three or four miles an hour.

1899
The school of Papworth Everard is closed, and the children who used to attend it
are enjoying a prolonged holiday. The school is closed because there is no money
wherewith to keep it open. It seems it was so much beholden to Mr E T Hooley, that
when that millionaire became a bankrupt the school was closed. On the most
optimistic view it is not likely that a man whose estate today yields only for
shillings in the pound to his creditors will be in a position to give away money in
charity tomorrow. Some at least of the children will have got beyond school age by
the time Mr Hooley is again the free-handed millionaire

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 1st February

1974

Since the traditional bar in Alexandra Street was closed down for the Lion Yard
development, the name of Henekeys has been missing from the city scene. The Henekey
Tavern, which has just been completed under the former Dorothy Restaurant has
brought it back in style. The Alexandra Bar keeps a link with the past and
adjoining it is a farmhouse-style chop bar. In the contrasting Squires Bar a more
substantial meal can be eaten in plush surroundings

1949
A mobile canteen was completely destroyed by fire on the Weston Colville road. The
2½ ton Bedford owned by Mr Alfred Eversham of Trumpington was being driven near
West Wratting when the driver smelled burning. He stopped the vehicle and opened
the shutter at the back to find the inside on fire. The outbreak is thought to have
been caused by a gas stove left alight. The van was used for selling tea and
sandwiches to displaced persons in the area

1924
Frederick Hiam told the Ouse drainage board that a number of banks were in bad
order. In Burnt Fen there were several places in the banks leaking badly. In the
old days two gangs of lighters were at work, but since the board had taken the
matter over nothing had been done. Who was responsible if there was a break? If we
had another inch of rain we should have had the fens flooded. If there was 20 feet
in of water in the river there was not a bank safe. They would soon be a million
pounds in debt, if they had to pay compensation for damage done.

1899
A gas explosion occurred at Royston workhouse. It seemed for some time the master
had suspected a defect in the pipes owing to the large quantity of gas that has
been registered by the meter. On Friday escaping gas was detected in the front part
of the House. A short time afterwards a loud report was heard in a room used by the
male cook. The partition of lathe and plaster which divides it had been blown right
across the table, the debris, which included a deal of crockery, being scattered in
all directions. Had the explosion occurred a little later the cook would have been
seriously injured, as his table was laid for tea at the time of the explosion.

TUESDAY 2nd February

1974

When Christ church, in the parish of St Andrew the Less, Cambridge, was built in
1839 the cost was £3,800. On Saturday a new church- installed at gallery level in
the original building at a cost of £40,000 - was dedicated. Rebuilding began nine
months ago, following the sale of Abbey church hall and Christ church institute to
Cambridge city council as part of the planned redevelopment of the Burleigh street
area. Now the building provides a new church with seating for 465 and at ground
level a hall with seating for 200

1949
River widening has been carried out by dredging operations by Silver street bridge,
Cambridge. The dredging, which attracted much interest whilst in progress, was
undertaken so that flood water coming through the sluice gates from the upper river
can pass around the loop of the river at a reduced velocity and so lessen the
possibility of damaging the buildings situated on the river bank. Further
alterations are to be made to the sluice gates during the year to assist in de-
energising the water passing through them
1924
The renewal of the music and dancing licence of the Cambridge co-operative hall,
was objected to on the grounds of noise. Burleigh Street was one of the most
densely populated parts of the town. The hall was not originally built for dancing,
it had a large number of windows and the dancing room was situated on the top floor
of the highest building in the neighbourhood, with the result that the sound was
dissipated considerably further. As a rule the dances did not terminate until
midnight and sometimes a great noise was caused by the people leaving - shouting,
singing and the back-firing of motor cycles, of which a large number were brought
by the people who attended

1899
Officials at Saffron Walden workhouse have had another exciting experience with a
tramp. A strongly built callous-looking man he is only secure when in the hands of
the law. The attention of the Labour master had been drawn to his cell and he
entered. The first inclination they had of what was going on was the delivery of
the leg of a night commode at their heads by the man who was standing on his bed in
a defiant attitude. Seeing that he meant further mischief an attempt was made to
secure him. It was not until the labour master dealt him a blow that he could be
handcuffed. In court he sprang upon the union master, striking him a blow on the
mouth, and another between the eyes, and it was with difficulty that he was floored
and handcuffed. During this procedure prisoner’s language was of the vilest
character.

WEDNESDAY 3rd February

1974

The Eastern Sports Council fear that unless former airfields like Duxford are used
for sporting pursuits, some activities which require large areas of space – like
parachuting and land yachting – may be forced out of existence within ten years.
The 600-acre airfield has been disused for a number of years and its future is
still in doubt. A £3 million scheme for a major sports complex was rejected last
year together with a counter-plan to build a prison for young offenders on the
site. South Cambridgeshire RDC have proposed turning the married quarters into a
nucleus of a new village

1949
Sir – I should like to appeal to local amateur radio transmitters to refrain from
transmitting during the limited periods of the day and evening when television
programmes are broadcast. The interference can blot out the picture on all
television screens in the vicinity, taking the form of a “trellis” pattern or light
an dark bands on the picture. Radio dealers and service engineers have only two
hours a day during business hours when they can demonstrate and test television
receivers and would appreciate more consideration from the radio amateurs who have
the remaining 20 hours during which to transmit (evening programmes occupying about
two hours) - Televiewer

1924
An inquiry was held into establishing a water supply for Dullingham, Brinkley, and
Borough Green. In normal times the supply of water to Brinkley was sufficient for
their needs. But there was only one pump and in dry seasons the people had to go
very early in the morning and wait a long time. Mrs Webb of Dullingham , said they
had not been able to get enough water to wash their clothes, and she could not
fancy drinking it after she saw a rat going into the well. The rector of Borough
Green considered the proposal absurd. There was no public water supply. The
majority of the cottages were owned by absolutely poor people, everybody was jolly
hard up, and now was not the time to put a large expense for a useless object on
the backs of the ratepayers.

1899
At a meeting to consider the financial position of Cambridge University it was
said there was a traditional belief that it was in possession of ample means to
enable it to carry on its great work. No conclusion could possibly be more remote
from the actual facts. Its fees for tuition had been raised to the limit of
productiveness. It was deficient in buildings of all kinds and crippled in the
provision of the necessary educational staff. Such ancient universities had to
recognise the extent to which new universities competed with them in the way of
diverting some portion of the stream of private liberality

THURSDAY 4th February

1974

Cambridge students sitting university examinations next term will not be allowed to
use electronic calculators. The Board said: “It is not that calculators are noisy
or interfere with anyone else. It is just the question of inequality – they are
expensive things and which some students can afford them, others cannot. We do not
want to give the better-off students an advantage”. Instead they are being told to
stick to the more traditional aids like slide rules and log tables.

1949
An inquiry into a proposed sewerage disposal scheme for Linton was told that piped
water was afforded in 1935 with a condition that a scheme for sewage would be
proceeded with within five years, but the war stopped it. Sanitary conditions were
little different from those existing in 1874 notwithstanding the fact that a number
of council houses had been built, there was a village college, and a hospital with
168 beds. No collection of night soil is made by the sanitary authority; the onus
of disposal rests upon the householders and constitutes a very real hardship.

1924
Algernon Sydney Campkin was the last survivor of a family who had for several
generations farmed land at Melbourn. In 1861 he was articled to a chemist and
druggist and subsequently in 1868 succeeded to the old-established business of the
late Mr William Brewster, an apothecary of some eminence in Rose Crescent,
Cambridge, which he very successfully conducted up to the time of his death.

1899
The amount of good which results from the presence in our midst of Addenbrooke’s
hospital is incalculable. In one important particular, however the work is limited
and confined: the want of a suitable home for convalescent patients. The
Hunstanton home is much appreciated but receives no surgical cases which require
the smallest dressing, which limits its usefulness to patients, many of whom linger
on in hospital for several weeks, when probably a very short time at the sea side
would restore them to compete health. Now some friends have guaranteed to start a
convalescent home exclusively in connection with Addenbrooke’s, and another donor
has promised to give a house at Hunstanton in furtherance of the scheme
FRIDAY 5th February
1974

Car owners living in Stretham face greater rusting problems than car owners
elsewhere in the country. The AA which has been undertaking an extensive survey on
vehicle corrosion report that a car which is used in a dry part of the country
rusts at a faster rate. Stretham is said to be the driest spot in the country. On
this basis cars there face a limited life. Lack of rainfall means they do not
benefit from the scouring effect which removes mud that contains salt and acid
deposits from the roads

1949
Joyce Carey, the well-known actress, has a great love for Cambridge but it is
seldom we have the chance of seeing her on our local stage. Now she is going to
appear in “The Oedipus Tyrannus” of Sophocles presented by the University Greek
Play committee. Playing Oedipus will be George Rylands, so well-known for his
productions and fine performances with the Marlowe society

1924
Sir - I know of one Church which has but two doors for the congregation which also
admits to two galleries as well as the body of the Church. Just what would happen
should a fire break out? One has not forgotten the mad scramble at the old Barnwell
theatre during a lantern service. It was due to overheating of the hot water
apparatus, which emitted clouds of steam, which the terrified congregation imagined
was smoke. Then someone shouted “fire” and there was a wild stampede for the exits,
people screamed, were trampled on, and many fainted. Such an experience is not
desired again. The one thing in the churches favour against a panic is that they
are scarcely ever full . – “Churchman”

1899
Mr J.W. Iliffe told the annual staff dinner of the C.D.N. that he remembered when
the Daily News was a puny infant and they were looking forward to the enterprise
justifying itself. What Cambridge would be without its Daily News he really could
not venture to think. When he first knew this borough they were satisfied with news
coming out once a week in several papers, and they thought they were fairly up to
date, and progressing satisfactorily, but they had no idea that any daily paper
could survive. It was Mr Taylor’s proud lot to start the venture, and prove not
only that a daily paper could live, but that it could achieve a magnificent success

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 8th February

1974

During wet weather “concrete cabbages” grow in Cherry Hinton area gardens and
“stone-dashed cars” appear overnight in the streets, a Labour councillor claimed.
The reason for such unusual sights is the outfall from the chimney of a cement
factory, he said. “If any clothes are left out to dry overnight on washing lines
they need to be washed again in the morning because they are covered with a fine
dust. If you clean your house windows and there is a little rain you have to clean
them all over again”

1949
One of the G.I. brides who left her Cambridge home town to sail for a new life in a
new country is back here for a 6-months stay with her parents. Mrs Barbara Phipps
seems thoroughly happy and contented in her new life in South Bend, Indiana. It is
about the same size as Cambridge. The majority of the houses are made of wood, all
have refrigerators, and those in the £2,000 region are fitted with electric washing
machines. Most of the stores are run on a self-service system.

1924
Greene King brewery applied for an off-licence to sell spirits, beer etc by retail
at the Bury Ale Stores, Sutton. The trade in bottled beer had increased enormously
since the war and the price had also increased. A pin of beer, which was 4 ½
gallons, cost 4s. before the war, now it cost 11s.; three dozen bottles of pale ale
could be purchased for 7s.6d. and today the price was 15s. Licensed houses were
thicker in Sutton High street than in any other part of Cambridgeshire but people
in private houses did not send their maids down to the public houses, they liked
their orders delivered at the door.

1899
The funeral of John Sanderson took place at Guilden Morden. Deceased was well known
as in addition to being a carrier to Royston he was a familiar figure at the feasts
held in the district. On the arrival of the corpse at his home, the window of the
cottage had to be removed before the coffin could be placed in the house. It was
made of stout elm, and measured 6ft 9in in length, 2ft 6 in width. The weight of
the coffin and corpse was estimated at 40 stone. The new bier was brought into
requisition and found to be only just wide enough to admit the coffin being placed
upon it.

TUESDAY 9TH February

1974

Cambridge city council’s controversial plan to stop Gwydir street being used as a
short-cut between East Road and Mill road has come into action and already
shopkeepers are reporting trading losses of up to 50%. Norfolk street, once
continually busy with traffic, is now silent and virtually at a standstill. And the
shopkeepers of the street are beginning to wonder if they might soon be at a
standstill too. Mrs Linda Gregoris who owns the Athena restaurant lent on her broom
and surveyed the five customers. “It is 11am and normally this place is chock-a-
block and people have to fight for a seat. Yesterday we had five people in here –
normally it would be as many as 80”

1949

To celebrate the first anniversary of the opening of the Embassy Ballroom, Mill
Road, Cambridge a birthday ball was held there when the resident band, under Freddy
Webb, was augmented. A very happy note was struck by the appearance of Ken Turner
and his band from the Rex Ballroom, together with their wives and lady friends, on
the dance floor, dancing for a change, instead of playing for others. Altogether a
very happy birthday evening for the ballroom.

1924
Cambridge council heard that 240 slum houses still remained and none had been
treated except where the structural condition was so unsafe that the buildings had
to be abandoned. The slums were getting worse and worse and there was no means of
cleaning them. Some small cottages should be built to relieve the pressure so there
might be transition from houses which were quite unfit for human habitation. But if
they built such houses they would later have to spend money on sanitorium
treatment. There would be no room for air space, and they would be a disgrace to
Cambridge

1899
The attention of the University Council of Senate has been called to the disorder
which attended the bonfire on November 24th, 1898 when the actual destruction of
property was considerable. They recommend that members of the University are
forbidden to take part in making or lighting of bonfires in public places within
the precincts of the university. Members offending will render themselves liable to
be punished by suspension, rustication, expulsion or otherwise.
WEDNESDAY 10th February

1974
Half-an-inch of highly brittle
spire of Saffron Walden parish
surveying it. If the metal rod
highly unstable and might have
two feet out of plumb, has now
steel is all that has been holding up the 200-foot
church, disclosed by the architect who has been
had snapped, the top of the spire would have become
collapsed. The spire, which was found to be almost
been stabilised.

1949
Magistrates granted a full licence for the Bedford Lodge hotel, Newmarket. Major
W.V. Beatty, trainer of Phantom House, said he considered the town had definite
need for its particular facilities. When it was suggested that the “need” was
nothing more than the result of the destruction by bombing of the White Hart Hotel
early in the war he replied: “I would not know. I never went there. All I know
about the place is that I go there for the amateur theatricals!”

1924
As a motor lorry, owned by Mr Parnell of Stretham and laden with 500 cans of petrol
was approaching the Milton railway level crossing at a very slow speed the driver
found the gates were closed to allow trains to pass. He applied his brakes, but
they would not act and the lorry, which carried a very heavy load, smashed through
the nearest gate, and stopped with the back part blocking the line. A coal train
was approaching from Histon and a light engine from Chesterton Junction and quick
action was necessary to avoid a serious accident. Gatekeeper Ernest Carter seized
some fog signals and was able to stop the coal train and similar action taken by
Patrol-Leader F.B.Pearson. The line was blocked for over an hour by which time the
lorry was, after a small repair, able to proceed on the journey.

1899
Cambridge University have favoured the establishment of an Agricultural Department
and the creation of a Professorship of Agriculture. Students who are likely in the
future to be owners or managers of land will have the opportunity of acquiring a
knowledge of the scientific principles underlying the sound practice of agriculture
and of the ways in which our ancestors met problems and difficulties which they,
like us, had to face.

THURSDAY 11th February

1974
Hundreds of in-calf cows in East Anglia are being slaughtered because their owners
cannot afford to keep them, claims a Haddenham farmer, Sidney Ward. He also
predicts a milk shortage. The price of feeding stuffs has doubled in the past 18
months. But the price of milk is still the same. The outlook for milk and beef is
bleak because many of the lower production cows are not economic to keep in the
present situation. When he started retailing milk in 1931 a full loaf of bread was
the same price as a pint of milk. “Look at the difference now. We are in a crisis”

1949
Sir – I want to call your attention to the despairing fact that Cambridge
landladies seem to hate babies. My husband and I have been trying for countless
months to rent a house, flat or rooms but as soon as we haltingly mention the
criminal fact that we have a baby, the answer is “Sorry”. Why, he is far too young
to do any possible damage and cries less than the average. We are not paupers, and
can afford a reasonable rent. I would give a hand in the house if need be, so that
my husband, baby and I can be together. Will landladies please tell me why they
refuse accommodation to people such as we? – “Norrie”
1924
Cambridge dancers will have a special attraction when through the enterprise of the
Cottage Dance Studio, Mr Percy Cowell and his band will visit the town. Mr Cowell,
well known before the war as an entertainer at the piano, is a native of the town
of whom the residents are justly proud. Since his demobilisation from the RAF he
has become much sought after in London and this will be his last appearance in his
home town prior to an important tour.

1899
Sir – In order to affix the new clock St Matthews church bells have been floored. A
very strong protest should be made against the bells being again re-hung, for of
all the abominable, discordant clanging, nothing can be compared to them for
wretched sound. Instead of drawing people to church, they are calculated to drive
people away from them as fast as possible. The effect on the nerves of the poor
inhabitants is dreadful. They should be condemned as a most intolerable nuisance to
a large section of the people in this thickly populated district – “Cantab”

FRIDAY 12th February

1974
A former Mepal pub is the new home of Clement Freud, Liberal candidate for the Isle
of Ely, and his wife Jill who moved in yesterday in the middle of their election
campaign. Mrs Freud, who spend the morning arranging furniture before going out to
canvass for her husband, was not at all worried by the rush of moving house during
the campaign. The family will stay in their new home whichever way voters turn on
February 28th. “We will be very happy to live here anyway, it is a very simple
place, but it very nice”, she said

1949

The BBC have completed tests and accepted delivery of a new Outside Broadcast
Control Vehicle from Pye ltd of Cambridge. Everything required for the production
and transmission of a complete television broadcast is contained in this unique
mobile unit, the most modern equipment of its kind in the world, including a set of
three of the latest Pye turret-headed television cameras. It is the first Pye
outside broadcast vehicle produced for the BBC and the first to go into regular
service since the war.

1924
A largely attended meeting at Cherry Hinton carried unanimously a resolution urging
the necessity of providing a branch reading room and library. Some said they should
not ask for a library at the moment when all building was required for houses but
they might ask public authorities sometimes a long time before they got anything.
If they asked for a public library and reading room there was some chance they
might get a box of books. (Laughter)

1899
Samuel Kisby Breese of the firm of coal merchants, St Ives, told the story of his
career and ultimate bankruptcy. He had started when seven years old and commenced
as partner to his brother 20 years ago. His father had died in 1840 and his mother
carried on the business. When she died they took it over. He did not think the
business was solvent then. When the navigation of the Ouse was stopped it cost them
about £100 a year. They lost thirteen horses and another time three barges were
sunk. They were laden with wheat and they had to pay £50 damage

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 15th February

1974
The menu at The Three Horse Shoes, at Madingley, is reasonably extensive for so
unpretentious a pub. We plumped for a peppered fillet steak with cream (£1.55) and
a whole crawfish provencal (£1.95). The latter lived up to its name, the aroma of
garlic lingering for several days. The pub follows an interesting policy of
charging a flat £2 for all full bottles of wine. The dessert trolley offered a good
selection from which we chose a sherry trifle (40p). To sum up dinner is a pleasant
experience but at £10.10 for two (there is a over charge of 10p each) it is not an
experience which many people will be able to repeat very often.

1949

There was not a single dissident among an audience of over 500 at Cambridge Corn
Exchange when it was decided to send a letter protesting against the Anti-Blood
Sports Bill to be introduced in the Commons. It states the belief that the sports
concerned form a very wholesome part of country life. Its supporters resent the
imputation of inhumanity which has been laid against them, knowing that the
alternative methods of control suggested will cause far greater suffering

1924
The principal objects of the Milton and District Smallholders’ Co-operative are the
purchasing of agricultural implements for the use of members, the finding of
suitable markets for their produce and generally co-operating to the best of their
ability. During the last year sales of milk had realised £4,869 & the earnings of
the threshing machine amounted to £423.

1899
At the Manor Farm, Waresley a freak of nature was to be seen. This was a healthy,
ordinary-sized lamb, born with 10 legs, each having perfect hoofs and joints. It
was quite a healthy specimen and took milk readily. Six of the legs were on one
side and four on the other. It has since died.

TUESDAY 16th February

1974

The three Cambridge parliamentary candidates competed for the ears of shoppers in a
battle of decibels in the Market Place. The Liberal, Dr Michael O’Loughlin, was
coming to the end of his soap-box session when his Conservative opponent, Mr David
Lane, arrived armed with a megaphone. Minutes later the Labour contingent arrived
with their candidate, Mr Jim Curran. Their loudspeaker van made a tour of the
Market Square booming out the socialist message and drowning everyone else.

1949

At a special public meeting of the Newmarket Town Football Club an overwhelming

vote expressed strong disapproval of the management committee’s decision not to
compete in the Eastern Counties League for the 1949-50 season. The chairman said
the decision had been made for three main reasons – lack of finance, the long
distances at present incurred in travelling, and the inability of the club to match
the playing strength of others in the league. A player-coach would cost at least
£450 a year, far more than they could afford. Part-time professionals would cost £3
a match, plus travelling
1924
William Salmon of Ickleton, farm foreman told the court that he saw the prisoner in
and field and found he had caught a rabbit. Defendant said he had a wife and three
children to keep and for the past three months he had been out of work. During that
period he had no income at all, because he was not entitled to the dole. He snared
the rabbit because they had nothing for dinner. The magistrates said that in the
circumstances they would deal leniently with him. He would be fined 10s.

1899
Mr Slingsby drew the attention of Cambridge council to the want of public
conveniences. He thought the present state of affairs was a disgrace and a scandal
to this civilised and intellectual town. They should consider underground
lavatories for males and females at Hyde Park Corner (under the shelter), Market
Hill (under the Conduit) & at the junction of East Road and Newmarket Road.

WEDNESDAY 17th February

1974

A 22 year-old student at Girton college, Cambridge, Miss Susan Inkster today became
the city’s fourth parliamentary candidate. A student of social and political
sciences she described herself on the official nomination papers as “Digger”. She
was accompanied by a group of young men carrying large placards saying “Dig for
victory”. She was reluctant to talk much about her policy.

1949

South Cambs. R.D.C. have given an assurance it is their policy to take water into
every council house in their district. Lists of tenants who suffered extreme
hardship by reason of having to obtain water from standpipes were submitted from
Bassingbourn, Guilden Morden and Melbourn. In 1938 they had sent out a circular
letter to every house asking if they would pay 2d a week for water, but nearly
every village voted against it

1924
“I have never known the Cambridge roads to get into such a bad state as they are at
present. Take Mill Road. Here we have considerable traffic and the pedestrian and
cyclist are faced with the prospect of a mud bath after every shower. To go through
Trumpington road is worse than driving through a ploughed field”

1899
“On Saturday last during the height of a great gale some farm buildings in
Chippenham were found to be on fire and in an incredible short space of time six
cottages were ablaze. So rapid was the spread of the flames that the unfortunate
inmates had only bare time to snatch unfortunate children from their beds. When
they escaped they found themselves cut off from the rest of the village and
several women were afterwards found almost naked huddled behind a haystack and had
to be taken over ploughed fields to a place of shelter"”- James Wickham, (vicar)

THURSDAY 18th February

1974
Cambridge city council are negotiating privately with the University to buy 20
acres off Milton Road which could provide space for up to 400 council houses. The
council’s Conservative leader, John Powley, denied any behind-the-scenes deal with
the University on planning permission for the new Robinson college in exchange for
the housing land. The 20 acre site lies behind the council housing estate at
Ramsden Square. It is occupied by a number of university departments. Some of the
land is used for genetic experiments with plants.
1949

The extraordinary elusiveness of Airey houses was referred to at the South Cambs
R.D.C. when criticism was made of the pace at which this type of house is being
built. The Gamlingay councillor said: “You see the site one minute and the next
week the houses. You get the legs, then the timber on the roof and there it stops.
They seem to be a sort of evil thing. They look like houses and cause a nice glow
in the hearts of the populace, but there is really nothing there. They’re airy!
They’re eerie!”

1924
A meeting took place at Ely for the purpose of forming an Ely branch of the
National Farmers Union. Mr Street Porter said a branch existed at Haddenham and if
one was formed for Ely it would be much more convenient for his district. There
were four others in the Isle of Ely – March, Wisbech, Chatteris and Whittlesey.
There would be no doubt that members would derive benefits from it.

1899

Yesterday afternoon the attention was attracted by what seemed to be an imposing

funeral procession. But this was no ordinary funeral for instead of the usual hease
an open landau led the way and this was occupied by three young men who wore “the
trappings of woe” very lightly. Following were nearly a score of hansoms. It is
alleged that at the end of last term at student of Queens’ college “ragged” a
couple of Freshmen’s rooms. The matter was reported to the University authorities
who came to the conclusion he should be sent down for a year. His friends resolved
to show their disapproval. Before the train left the company whistled the “Dead
March” and it left amid ringing cheers.

FRIDAY 19th February

1974

A waste tanker dripped foul-smelling butchers’ waste through the streets of

Cambridge before it was stopped on Elizabeth Way bridge. One lane of the bridge was
closed to traffic as men worked for nearly two hours down the road. The waste –
including excreta and chicken waste – was washed down to the road below. There were
mixed descriptions of the odour from residents in Abbey road. One said the smell
was “like a dog’s lavatory – it invaded the whole house”, another as “like rotten
eggs” but one woman said she didn’t even notice the smell among the fumes of the
traffic.

1949
The operation of an express coach service between Eltisley green, Kisby’s Hut,
Elsworth and Pye Telecommunications ltd at Ditton Walk, came before the Eastern
Area Traffic Authority. The service is operated by Progressive Motor Coaches, and
as Pye now propose to make a deduction from the wages of each employee carried, an
operating licence is required. Grant of the licence was opposed by Premier Travel
ltd and Whippet Coaches who said they would consume less petrol

1924
The inhabitants of St Ives were horror-struck upon hearing the rumour that the
Vicar of Hemingford Grey had been cut to pieces on the railway bridge at Hemingford
Abbotts. Shortly afterwards the story was proved beyond doubt, the remains of the
reverend gentleman being conveyed to the vicarage. It is supposed he was making a
visit to Houghton to arrange for some special Lenten services and when on the
bridge was knocked down by a pilot engine
1899
Sir the very narrow escape of a highly respectable burgess from death through the
fall of a high wall in Union Road should sound a note of alarm. There are several
high walls in the centre of Cambridge towering up to great heights that are
standing very much on the skew, ready for falling which would be much improved by a
lowering process. Cambridge is a town noted for many bye-laws, good, bad and
indifferent, which can be twisted to suit all occasions when brought into
requisition – “Cantab”

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 22ND February

1974

Mr Eric Cave, who has been the Cambridge city librarian, officially announced his
retirement today. There have been many developments in the Cambridge library
services since he was appointed in 1954. He seen three new libraries built, the
introduction of mobile libraries, the opening of the record lending library, and
the introduction of library services to old people’s homes. He hopes to see the
final completion of the fitting-out contract of the new library being built in the
Lion Yard.

1949
The Cambridgeshire federation of anglers discussed the question of over-fishing of
local waters. Major Gordon Fowler said in recent years bus loads of strangers from
far afield had invaded the fisheries on Saturdays and Sundays during the summer,
and as they brought their own food and drink they were of little benefit to local
trade. In addition, they often took away or irreparably damaged before returning to
the water, large numbers of fish. If this was allowed to go on the fisheries and
their amenities would soon be ruined.

1924
At a meeting at St Ives to discuss the Ouse Drainage order Mr Wheeler said there
was a vast difference in draining lands below sea level and those above. The test
was a simple one. If you took all the fens works away, the fens would suffer, but
St Ives would not; therefore the work was for the benefit of the fen land. But the
scheme proposed that the uplands should first of all pay for works done in their
own district, and in additional pay towards all the works done in the fens whose
works were obstructing the flow of our water out to the sea

1899
On April 25th 1599 Oliver Cromwell was born at Huntingdon. On April 25th 1899
meetings will be held in Huntingdon to celebrate the three-hundredth anniversary of
the birth of its greatest son. What form these celebrations should taken has not
yet been decided. There is talk of erecting a statue of Cromwell and the
authorities of the Grammar School, which was Cromwell’s school, have resolved to
signalise the occasion by making an appeal for funds for its re-building.

TUESDAY 23rd February

1974

Mr John Impey told Melbourn parish council: “There are a awful lot of rats at
Melbourn. One old gentleman watches rats run through his home and others watch them
play in their gardens”.

1949
An elderly woman had a narrow escape when a Hornet aircraft crashed on her house
and blew up in the back garden of her semi-detached council house at Reed Joint,
Barkway. The pilot had bailed out. Mrs S. Smith was downstairs when the plane hit
the roof of her house. The explosion which occurred as soon as the aircraft hit the
ground, blew out windows in both houses.

1924
An alarming outbreak of fire occurred at Miss Bluff’s premises in Crown street, St
Ives. It appears that the chimney caught fire and was allowed to burn itself out
but an hour later flames were seen issuing from the top window. Attaching their
hose to the hydrant at Bridge street the firemen soon had a plentiful supply of
water pouring on the fire which was extinguished, but not before it had spread to
the top floor of Mr Fred Norris’ house. Fortunately there was scarcely any wind to
fan the flames otherwise the block of buildings between Crown street and Merryland
would no doubt have been involved. Supt Gale and several constables kept the crowd
back from hampering the firemen.

1899
Inspectors of the Local Government Board held an inquiry at Newmarket respecting
the proposed new main drainage schemes for the district. The sewers had been a
source of difficulty and trouble in consequence of its faulty construction. The
present sewage farm had caused constant complaints. The method of exposing sewage
in trenches or ditches to stagnate was so very unsatisfactory that it was likely to
cause a serious nuisance. Last year a scheme had to be abandoned in consequence of
the Burwell Fen Commissioners objecting to the discharge of effluent on their fen

WEDNESDAY 24th February

1974
A decision by the new St Ives parish council to wear robes on civic and other
special occasions was criticised as being out of touch with the young electorate.
Councillor Bertie James also warned about embarrassing future parish councillors
who may not be able to afford the £30 to buy a robe for civic functions. A majority
of councillors disagreed and the decision to wear robes on civic occasions and
other occasions where councillors thought fit was carried

1949
The Pentacle Club is presenting a “Cavalcade of magic” at Cambridge Guildhall. The
programme will include the illusion which has been much in the news lately – sawing
a woman in half. The club first performed this illusion in 1931 when Harold
Warrender achieved the impossible. Due to an error, the lady was actually cut
slightly on that occasion, but no serious harm was done!

1924
A number of stormy protests were made by members of Soham parish council. It
appeared useless for them to sit representing the parish and to pass resolutions
and recommendations to the County Council if no steps were taken to put matters
right. The county councillor should be asked to move for the reduction of the
salaries of certain officials, owing to the lax manner in which they were treated
at Soham.

1899
Cambridge Sturton street Co-operative branch were told of the progress during the
past year. Sales in the grocery department amounted to £5,500, an increase of 10
per cent. The butchery department had made a steady increase and there was a great
increase in the coal trade. In the drapery department such a satisfactory state of
affairs did not exist, for the trade was stationary, if not on the decline. The
management or its members were to blame somewhere or other

THURSDAY 25th February

1974
The Queen has agreed to allow Cambridge to remain a city after local government
reorganisation takes effect on April 1st. Her decision means that the ancient
office of Mayor of Cambridge will continue. The new mayor will be Councillor Jack
Warren who has been chairman of the Labour-controlled district council since their
formation last June

1949
Cambridge University and Town Gas Light Company meeting was told that 8 ¾ miles of
new mains had been laid. The supply had been extended to Teversham and Coton and a
new low-pressure feeder main installed between Newmarket road and Mill road,
Cambridge. This necessitated laying a section of the main six feet underneath the
four lines of railway track at Coldham’s Lane bridge. Statistics revealed 600 new
consumers, the supply of 1,606 gas cookers and a growing interest in central
heating through automatically operated gas boilers.

1924
Ely Rural council received a letter asking if they would be willing to supply the
parish of Southery with water, as their supply was unsatisfactory. An arrangement
might be made whereby Downham district council laid the main to Littleport bridge
and a meter be fixed at Brandon creek bridge and they could have all the water they
wanted at 1s. per thousand gallons. Downham could supply all the houses on the
route and lay a pipe under the river to supply Black Bank Drove.

1899
A meeting of Cambridgeshire chamber of agriculture resolved that compulsory
attendance at school, by which the sons of farm labourers are prevented from
obtaining employment on the farm up to the age of 11 years, prevents boys from
becoming farm labourers and seriously interferes with the supply of that most
valuable body of men – the skilled farm labourers of England. Almost all the good
labourers began work in some form or another when eight or nine years old.

FRIDAY 25th February

1974
Some housewives are being charged 100% more for meat than farmers were getting, Mr
G. Duke of Ickleton told the Cambridgeshire Farmers Union. Mr Keith Roberts of
Great Wratting maintained that the pig industry was “in a frightful muddle”. The
return on pigs was £6.90 less than last October while the extra feed costs were
£2.95 more. “We need 60p a score to make pigs pay”. The Danes were receiving £3 in
subsidies for each pig through compensatory amounts paid by the E.E.C.

1949
For the first time since Impington Village College was opened in 1929, a Gilbert
and Sullivan opera was performed there. A packed “house” received enthusiastically
the Huntingdon Music Makers Club production of “Ruddigore”. The orchestra,
conducted by Ethel M. Charles, was well up to the general standard. Arthur
Tattersall was the producer

1924
A Gamlingy bird catcher was summonsed for causing unnecessary suffering to a
linnet. An RSPCA inspector said he saw him near a hedge. He noticed several nets
used for catching birds and that he was using a linnet with a brace attached as a
decoy bird. The brace was chafing its shoulder blades. Defendant replied “I have
been doing this for 50 years. The farmers pay me for catching the birds”. He was
fined 10s, not for catching the birds but for the manner in which he caught them

1899
The motor car has come to stay. So common have they become that even the boy in the
streets will hardly turn his head to look at one. The demand for cycles, and, in
its own degree, for motors has stimulated in an extraordinary degree the
manufacture of both. Of motor cars there are already in the field as many styles as
there are horse vehicles. There is thus sufficient material to invest an exhibition
which will appeal to those who cycle or “mote” (to use the new-fangled and ugly
verb)

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 1st March

1974

A photo-finish to the General Election has been predicted. Both major parties will
finish up with about 300 MPs according to a computer-based forecast. Amongst
ministers returned was the Education Secretary, Mrs Margaret Thatcher. The
Conservatives held Cambridge. The Labour candidate, James Curran, said the
University vote had been a major factor in his defeat. The Digger candidate, Miss
Susan Inkster, gained 369 votes. She said: “This is only the start. People in
Cambridge will be hearing much more of the Diggers in the future”

1949
March, the month of winds, came in like a lion – with a gale that touched 82 mph
this morning. There were the usual casualties amongst trees and chimney pots but
the narrowest escape was that experienced by Mr D. Pulford, an agricultural
engineer, at the Chequers Inn, Cottenham. He was uninjured when a 20-feet chimney
stack collapsed and about half a ton of bricks fell onto his bed, driving its legs
through the floor of the room.

1924
The jubilee dinner of the New Street Men’s’ Bible Class was a most successful &
enjoyable affair and a revelation to outsiders of what great things may grow from
small beginning. It says much for the firm foundations of the organisation that the
old name of “Bible Class” is still considered best for a gathering which has grown
in numbers to between three and four hundred. Long may it continue

1899
The hitherto quiet little village of Longstanton has been engaged in a labour
struggle, a battle between farmers and farm servants. The cause of dispute was
originally the hours of labour, but at a later stage the question of wages was
brought in. It was decided to ask to work from 7am to 5pm – a ten hour’s day, with
half an hour for breakfast and an hour for dinner out of it. Four out of five
farmers refused to make the concession. The result was that nearly 40 agricultural
labourers “came out” on strike.

TUESDAY 2nd March

1974

John Stevens, the Tory candidate in the Isle of Ely, was the only combatant
surprised by the more than five-fold increase in Clement Freud’s majority. The
constituency was a Liberal stronghold many years ago. But it has taken the personal
magnetism of Freud to revive that Liberal tradition.

1949
Triplets born at the Mill Road Maternity Hospital are making excellent progress.
They are all healthy, alert little babies who have not given a moment’s anxiety
since their arrival. All weighed over 4lb at birth. The hospital staff are
understandably proud of their triplets, for they are the first born there in the 15
years since maternity cases were first handled

1924
A large number of outgoing letters, estimated at two or three hundred, were
destroyed by a fire which occurred in the letter box at the Cambridge Post Office.
The last collection had been made at 11.15 on Saturday night so members of the
public who posted letters between that time and 2.30 on Sunday afternoon will know
what has happened if irate friends accuse them of neglect in writing.

1899
Some time ago a man living in the Isle of Ely was suffering apparently from some
disease of a cancerous nature; and his face and neck terribly swollen. He was
discharged from Addenbrooke’s Hospital as nothing could be done for him. He
appeared on the verge of sinking when a woman said: “I know what will cure you. And
it is this only. You must rub your face and neck with a dead woman’s hand”. Soon
afterwards he heard a woman had died, he went to the house; his request was
granted, and he spent a long time in the operation. He quickly recovered and is now
hearty and well

WEDNESDAY 3rd March

1974

A jubilant Sir David Renton went horse-riding to celebrate his victory for
Huntingdonshire’s Conservatives in the General Election. The 65-year-old MP and
Queen’s Counsel galloped his grey mare from his home at Abbots Ripton knowing that
he had been returned to Westminster for the ninth time since 1945

1949
Sentence of six month’s imprisonment was passed on the butler to Mrs E. Bambridge,
of Wimpole Hall for theft of wines and spirits. He gave notice in December and
after his departure it was found that a number of bottles were missing from the
wine cellars and others had been partially emptied and refilled with tea, red ink
and water. The floor was littered with broken bottles and a window had been left
unfastened to give the impression of a burglary

1924
Ten men answered summonses for gambling on Coldham’s Common, Cambridge as a result
of a Sunday morning raid by the police. P.C. Rowlinson said about 10am one
defendant arrived at the Ammunition Hut and soon 20 were present. He continually
saw them throwing coins up in the air and stoop down and pick them up. A police
officer got within 20 yards of them, when they ran in every direction. One man said
he was out with his whippets, he was not gambling but had picked 2d up as he did
not like to see it lying on the ground. They were fined 10s each

1899
Next year the lease under which the Cambridge Tramways Company has the use of the
streets expires. They have entered into negotiations with the British Electric
Company for the sale of their undertakings. Subject to the Town Council giving its
assent a sale has been arranged. They will introduce electric trams and
considerably extend the present system of tram lines.

THURSDAY 4th March

1974
The last page was turned on nearly 500 years of history when Edward Towgood and
sons ltd , probably the country’s oldest paper mill, closed its door for the last
time. The mill at Sawston is believed to date back to Caxton’s time around 1490.
Now its days are over. With accumulated losses in the last three years the present
owners Reed Paper and Board have closed it down and made 150 people redundant

1949
Speaking to a crowded assembly at the opening of the Free Poles Club in St Andrew’s
Hall, Emmanuel Road, Cambridge the Vice Chancellor described the need for friendly
relations between Britons and the Free Poles in this country, as a step which would
foster inter-national harmony. The club is open not only to Poles all over the
country but to anyone showing interest in Anglo-Polish relationship

1924
An exhumation is usually associated with something grim and sinister, but that at
Over churchyard was of a reverent and honourable nature. In 1916 an enforced
sojourner owing to the German occupation of Northern France passed away and was
buried in what his relatives regarded as foreign soil. Now the opportunity has
arrived of having his remains re-interred in his own beloved country. A French
coffin was delivered at Swavesey railway station nearly a fortnight ago. After the
exhumation the grave was again filled in and the tombstone re-erected.

1899
Some of the inner workings of parochial life in Madingley were laid bare and some
astonishing revelations of the relations existing between the incumbent and some of
his parishioners were made at a court held by the Chancellor of the diocese. The
vicar applied for a faculty confirming certain alterations in the church. This was
opposed by Col. H.W. Hurrell, owner of Madingley Hall who also presented a faculty
to remove a stone altar which had been placed in the chancel.

FRIDAY 5th March

1974

The new Cambridgeshire county council are leading a nation-wide drive to pressure
the new Labour government into giving them more money to keep down rates. The
Conservatives changed the mathematical formula for assessing the level of grants
paid to hard-up county councils operating in areas of low population and rateable
value. This has meant the county has received £27 million in rate support grants
which is 4m. less than they would have received under the old assessment formula

1949
A vigorous and forceful speech appealing to Christians to out-speak and out-think,
out-do and, if necessary out-die the communists and to present a case for Jesus
Christ was made by Dr Donald Soper at a meeting to commemorate the jubilee of
Trumpington free church. He described those who flirted with communism as “silly
fatheads”

1924
The St Neots Licensing Association presented a petition for the extension of
licensing hours to 10.30 pm instead of 10 pm during the official summer time. They
said that at closing time it was quite light and many men who stopped on their
allotments or played cricket until dusk found themselves too late for a glass of
beer or else had to drink two or three glasses hurriedly instead of drinking it
leisurely and digesting it properly. The magistrates granted the extra time between
May and August.

1899
At a meeting at Girton for electing parish councillors the schoolmaster raised the
question of the parish pump and remarked that the state of affairs with regard to
the water supply was disgraceful, more than one-third of the houses having either
no water supply or water unfit to drink and as the council had taken no steps to
remedy the matter they were guilty. Cries of “Puppy soup”, “Cesspool drainings” etc
were frequently heard

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 8th March

1974

Plans for a water park at Baitsbite lock, including a 2,000-metre rowing course
have run into trouble with Milton parish council whose objection was that good
agricultural land would be lost. It would slice through the ancient course of Fen
road, now an almost traffic-free track to the river, which would become choked with
heavy traffic. Milton would be overwhelmed with recreation areas since hundreds of
acres have already been zoned for a country park.

1949
An appeal was heard against the decision of the County council not to permit the
working of gravel in some fields adjoining the railway crossing at Milton fen. The
present workings at Milton gravel pit were practically worked out. The clerk of
Milton parish council produced a petition protesting against the use of the land
for workings, signed by the majority of residents in Fen road. The land in question
was very good agricultural land.

1924
The county licensing meeting was told there were objections to the renewal of the
licence of the Blue Ball, Grantchester. There were four licensed houses in the
village, the population was 489, making 122 persons per house. The trade of all
houses had decreased due to the decrease of the spending power of the agricultural
labourer. The tenant said in addition to managing the house, he was a brick-layer’s
labourer. The licence was renewed

1899
Wicken Fen is the last fragment of virgin fen. Portions of the fen are often in
the market for sale, and the National Trust are desirous of securing a few acres
from time to time, so that they may be retained in their primeval state. It is
desirable that this piece of the England of long ago should be retained in order
that Englishmen of this and future generations may be able to realise what the
fenland was.

TUESDAY 9th March

1974

Cambridge councillors voted to end a 400 year civic tradition when the District
Council, who take over at the end of the month, voted to make the wearing of gowns
optional on ceremonial occasions only. The custom dates back to 1558. Councillors
wore simple black gowns and aldermen scarlet gowns on four special “scarlet days”
and black gowns at other times. Councillor John Powley said he had some regrets
against seeing the end of such a long established tradition. “I shall not be
disposing of my gown. It may be going into mothballs, but it may well be coming out
again in two or three years time”.

1949
Cyril Stapleton and his orchestra, with Dick James, Pearl Carr and the Staplejacks,
received a rousing reception at the Rex ballroom, Cambridge, which was packed to
capacity with dancers. The manager announced that the ballroom will be closed until
Monday when there will be a new super-sprung floor.

1924
Felix, the feline hero of film and song, has been doing some walking
extraordinary. Habituees of the Central cinema will have noticed that until
recently he had a comfortable perch on the top of the pay box. To all appearances
he was quite at home there, but, lured by an undergraduate, Felix was persuaded to
“keep on walking” and the result is that he is to be seen on the top of the glass
cover on the roof of the Great Hall of Trinity College. He has been there for well
over a week now, and it is not known when and how the powers-that-be will be able
to persuade him to resume his walking

1899
An Italian was charged with riding on the Great Eastern Railway from Wimblington
to Histon without having previously paid his fare. James Franklin, a guard, said he
saw the prisoner get into the train. At Swavesey station some boys informed him
there was a man under the seat in the railway carriage. The man said he had been in
the country for six months and had been obtaining his living by playing a
concertina, but the instrument had gone wrong, and he had no money to buy a new
one. The police-court missionary is looking after the case.

WEDNESDAY 10th March

1974

Three Cambridge aldermen who between them have served the city council for 87 years
were conferred with the honorary freedom of the city at a ceremony at the
Guildhall. They were Geoffrey Hickson, Tom Amey and Cecil Mole. The ceremony was a
rare event – only seven individual honorary freedoms have been granted in the past
30 years. All will be retiring from local government at the end of the month when
the city council goes out of existence and is replaced by Cambridge District
Council

1949
A driver told the court that when driving his lorry along Magdalene street,
Cambridge he had to slow down to a crawl because of the other traffic, when he
heard a chattering noise and before he could alight a young lady appeared at the
side of his cabin window shouting that he had cut her in. Asked if she was hurt, he
alleged she said: “Mister, I have ruined a good pair of nylons and someone is going
to pay for it”. He told her he did not think it was his fault that her brakes did
not act. He was fined 20s.

1924
Magistrates were told that in Sawston there were five ale houses, six beer houses
with “on” licences, one beer house with an “off” licence, and one grocer’s licence.
It was 594 paces from the Black Bull to the Greyhound, and in between these two
pubs there were eight other licensed houses. On the south side of the Morning Star
was the Cross Keys and the Woolpack beerhouse. On the north side was the Commander-
in-Chief and the Fox beerhouse

1899
The grass which grows in luxuriance on the banks of the Devils ditch at Burwell
caught fire about 1½ from the main road from Cambridge to Newmarket. Very quickly
the undergrowth on the side farthest from Newmarket in both the ditch and on the
bank was ablaze. Portions of the Heath became ignited. Assistance was quickly
forthcoming from the farm and houses in the vicinity, but the fire had extended
about a mile before it could be got under control. It is believed that a lighted
match was dropped by someone passing

THURSDAY 11th March

1974
The announcement of a return to the five-day week was greeted with relief by mid-
Anglia’s industrialists. Pye of Cambridge said that all their factories would be
back to normal working on Monday. The secretary of Cambridge Trades Council said
that for workers the main gain was a return to normality. “In this area we were not
hit very hard by the three-day week, but it is a good thing it is over”

1949
A resolution to the effect that it was most unlikely that vacancies in the
Cambridgeshire county police would be filled as long as the remuneration of police
officers remained at a level below that of citizens of similar class was passed at
the Shire Hall. Ald. Taylor said “No man with under three years service draws as
much as £5 a week in cash. Compared with other employment, how on earth do you
expect to get policemen”. The authorised strength of the county force was 114 and
the actual strength 92

1924
A sequel to the disturbance in the Cambridge council chamber gallery was heard
when the mayor warned the public as to their conduct in the council chamber. They
must not show their approval or disapproval of the proceedings of the council.
There was a certain amount of irony in the caution, for at the time the utterance
was made no unemployed, who apparently were the cause of the commotion on the
previous occasion, were present, and the occupants of the gallery included the
mayoress, a county councillor and a newspaper editor.

1899
Some time since the Newmarket council, in the face of much opposition, decided to
apply for an electric light installation for “Turfville”. On Friday the section
which supplies Palace Street was tested and Mr Leopold de Rothschild’s Palace was
ablaze with an effulgence from the many incandescent bulbs which have been fitted
all over the premises. On Saturday the High Street was also tested. It remains for
tonight, barring accident, for the whole of the cables to be made alive with the
full power

FRIDAY 12th March

1974
Liberals had not a “hope in hell” of seeing electoral reform introduced within the
life of the new parliament, said Isle of Ely MP, Clement Freud. A conference on the
subject, along with two cabinet seats and “enough junior ministries to ensure that
we would have no-one left on the back benches” had been some of the “bribes”
offered by the Conservatives in their attempts to form a Liberal-Conservative
coalition. But to have accepted these would have meant “selling out” the Liberal
electorate.

1949
Sir – the trouble with the Four Lamps roundabout is its bad design. It was put down
many years ago and allows traffic to approach at too fast a rate. The new
roundabouts on Chesterton road with its beautiful flower gardens and the one where
Lensfield joins Trumpington road are of better design because they slow all traffic
down to walking pace. A much greater terror is that most insane junction, Pembroke
street and Mill Lane with Trumpington street. How people avoid being killed daily
is always a marvel to me. It would be so easy to control these with traffic
operated signal lights – D. McClure Campbell

1924
A disastrous fire broke out on
manual engine was brought out,
the strong wind their task was
building to building. The fire
carpenters shop was burnt down
since a fire of such magnitude
the premises of Mrs Baldock, at Warboys. The local
and the Ramsey Brigade was sent for, but owing to
a helpless one as the flames leapt rapidly from
spread to Mr Dorrington’s premises, Mr Allpress's
and several small cottages attacked. It is some time
occurred in the locality

1899
A girl told the court she was employed as a housekeeper at Kimbolton castle in 1893
.The Duke of Manchester paid but very few visits to the castle, so that the
establishment was not kept going as it would have been. All sorts of difficulties
seem to have arisen. She had received a month's notice to leave and proceeded to
pack her boxes, but the Duchess, a German governess and a servant came to her room
and the boxes were opened and searched. There were some things in her boxes which
belonged to the Castle and she had been locked up.

LOOKING BACK

MONDAY 15th March

1974

Lyons restaurant in Cambridge city centre is to close at the end of the week. It
opened first as a tea shop just over 42 years ago in Petty Cury. Lyons said that
the restaurant was closing because of reorganisation within the group. A spokesman
said: “The shop does not fit in with our plans for the future”

1949

Daring thieves have again been busy with the church roof at Eltisley, removing 15
cwt of lead valued at between £70 and £80. About a year ago a quantity of roof
leading was removed in the night and now, with this latest outrage, one whole side
of the roof is completely leadless. The marauders worked so secretly and quietly
that nothing untoward was suspected at the time of the robbery

1924
Between 400 and 500 members of the Cambridge branch of the Transport and General
Workers Union employed by local contractors came out on strike. The union has been
negotiating for an increase on wages as follows: Carmen 50s. lorry drivers 65s. and
motor driver’s mates 55s. for a 48-hour week. The coal merchants say that wages
have been based on the rate of pay to agricultural workers and instead of giving an
increase they are under the impression that the time has arrived when the men
should have a reduction.
1899
An extraordinary scandal took place at Long Sutton, near Spalding, after the vicar,
finding a child had not been baptised, refused to conduct its burial service. The
coffin was placed in the grave, and the sexton was about to cover it when the
father objected and asked for a service of some sort, if only the reading of the
Lord’s Prayer. The vicar declined and the sexton removed the coffin from the grave
and placed it in the belfry. The affair has created quite a sensation in the
locality

TUESDAY 16th March

1974
A 17-feet high wire mesh security fence is taking shape round the former RAF camp
at Stradishall near Haverhill, which is being converted to a prison. The camp, more
recently used as a transit camp for Ugandan Asians is due to receive its first
inmates next January. The base was abandoned by the RAF No.1 Navigation Training
School in 1970 after 31 years service. Now the camp will hold 700 prisoners, 500
category B offenders (not high-risk) in the main prison, to be called High Point,
and 200 young offenders in a detention centre called North Ridge

1949

Cambridge commons and cemetery committee considered a proposal by the Cambridge Ice
Cream Company that they should be permitted to sell ice cream from selected sites
on recreation grounds. An alternative proposal was that the council should purchase
the ice cream from the company and retail it themselves at an agreed discount. Both
would necessitate the erection of electrically-fitted kiosks by the council and the
committee has decided that neither shall be entertained.

1924
Sir - A disgraceful scene was witnessed today in Great Eastern Street, Cambridge,
of a poor ex-soldier and his wife and family of three, including a baby, and his
furniture, being put out into the streets. The man and his wife had been expecting
to go into rooms, but when it was found that they had children, they received a
letter refusing to take them in. There was no rent owing, so that was not the
excuse. - A Looker-on

1899
A Newmarket policeman died due to injuries received during the early hours of
Friday morning. It is presumed he walked along the railway line in the direction of
the old platform of the town station as he spoke to the night watchman who was
cleaning the carriages in a siding. Later he was seen wandering about in a lane,
suffering from bad concussion of the brain and a severe fracture of the skull.
There are some deep pits over which laden trucks of coal are brought and the coal
unloaded and in one of these was found his helmet and lantern, its sides battered
in

WEDNESDAY 17th March

1974
In barely twenty minutes the chairman, Mr Leonard Childs, pushed sentiment and
nostalgia firmly aside … and by the close of the meeting the Great Ouse River
Authority was dead and buried. It seemed ambitious when vested with wider powers to
replace the Great Ouse River Board in 1964. The board replaced the drainage boards
dating back to 1920, which replaced smaller units … and so on back into shrouded
fenland history. The momentum of change gathers pace with the advent of the new
Anglian Water Authority bringing a new dimension not only to water and drainage but
sewage as well.

1949

It is pleasant, as they end, to be able to bid farewell to the various war-time

restrictions which have particularly affected the housewife. I have been able to
write an obituary to bread, jam and sweet rationing. Now comes the end of clothes
rationing after eight long, weary years. The ending of the coupon system is hardly
likely to lead to an orgy of buying. It is only too sadly true that our buying is
conditioned rather by the contents of our purses than our coupon books.

1924
Sir – the number of small cars in England seems steadily increasing, but the
difficulty in Cambridge is the garage. At Papworth we have an industry for
tuberculosis ex-servicemen to make wooden garages but many people are deterred from
buying since Cambridge by-laws refer to them as “temporary buildings”, as opposed
to a good old-fashioned coachhouse, and the Town Council requires people to take
them down again after six months use. If somebody would persuade councillors to
encourage the small car the men at Papworth could earn a good living. – Elsbeth
Dimsdale

1899
A Cambridge meeting were told that people who knew absolutely nothing about meat
were appointed as inspectors, the result being that sound meat was often condemned
and bad meat passed. Half the butchers in Cambridge had no slaughterhouse on their
premises and it would be advantageous to have properly equipped slaughterhouses
rather than have animals killed in some of the private ones. Animals were sent to
London which no one present would care to eat and few local butchers expose in
their own shops.

THURSDAY 18th March

1974
Cambridge university gave Mr David Robinson’s £10 million new college a massive go-
ahead when a total of 916 dons voted for the project and only 135 against. The
university will now apply for outline planning permission for the college on the
Herschel Road, Thorneycreek site.

1949
Isleham village dramatic society were due to begin a three-nightly run of
“Charley’s Aunt” at the school hall at 7.30 pm. At 5 o’clock officials from the
County Architect’s department refused to allow the play to go on as the hall did
not meet the stringent requirement of the safety regulations. At 5.45pm the village
crier was called out to go on his round giving news of the last-minute bombshell to
the disappointed villagers. Bus loads of playgoers were due to arrive from Soham
and Beck Row. After a lot of frantic telephoning the buses were cancelled and money
refunded.

1924
A serious fire broke out at the large chaff factory of Messrs Fyfe of Littleport.
By the time the village fire brigade arrived the whole building was a mass of
flames. Throughout the night they gave their full attention to the building but
were unable to save any of the valuable machinery inside, including a secret
invention for meal making, known to be the only one in the world. In a very few
hours all that remained was the mangled and twisted iron frames of the machinery,
all of which was ruined.

1899
Weather of a wintry character was experienced in Cambridge when a heavy snowstorm
of upwards of two hours duration entirely changed the aspect of things and
everything is now wearing a mantle of snow, some to a depth of eight inches. The
tramways were forced by the state of their lines to suspend their service and
ordinary vehicular traffic was rendered extremely uncomfortable, if not dangerous.
Corporation employees were soon dispatched in all directions with shovels, brooms
and carts to clear the principal streets.

FRIDAY 19th March

1974
Last week psychiatric nurse Jock Watson was in charge of wards full of mentally ill
patients at the Ida Darwin Hospital, Fulbourn. This week he’s back with a brush and
a bucket scrubbing out the same wards in his new job as a hospital domestic – and
he’s £5 a week better off. After 16 years experience he was earning a basic wage of
only £26.98 a week. Some male nurses work a 72-hour week occasionally and hardly
see £25.

1949

Proposals for further extension of Cambridge boundaries to meet housing needs were
disclosed at the Town Council. It is now suggested that Barton, Coton, Madingley,
Fen Ditton, Girton, Horningsea, Grantchester and Teversham should be included.

1924
The village of Cherry Hinton has been agog with excitement with rumours regarding
the wealth of a sexagenarian spinster, who was removed to Chesterton workhouse
infirmary. The woman has been living in a little two-roomed whitewashed thatched
cottage in the Chequers yard under conditions of poverty. The amount of her wealth
has been subject to considerable exaggeration and the latest rumours place the
figure at about £1,000. A search revealed £140 in coin of the realm, including £15
in gold, a large number of half-crowns and many smaller coins, secreted in several
places in each of the rooms of the cottage, a fact that points to her having
hoarded small sums for many years.

1899
A good deal of amusement was caused at the Cambridge police court when a child
whose head could only just be seen above the dock was charged with wilfully
damaging a window at Comet-yard. It was said she threw a snowball and it hit the
window, cracking it right across. Witness cautioned her and she then threw 12
others, as fast as she could. He spoke to her mother who used bad language, tried
to clutch at his whiskers and threatened to pull them out. Then she got a shovel of
snow and threw it over him.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 22nd March

1974

A fellowship of Royal Society at the age of 32 is probably unprecedented. To

achieve this in the face of the difficulties set in the path of Dr Stephen Hawking
is astonishing. His is severely disabled. He cannot walk, has immense difficulty
with speech and uses a special typewriter to produce his papers. During the past
ten years a major portion of his research has been concerned with Black Holes.

1949

A movement which has done, and is doing, a great work all over the country is that
of the Building Societies. Cambridge has a building society of which its members
can be justly proud. George Newman, vice president said: “I think this society,
which is 99 years old, is by no means senile and is more active than at any time
during its history. In spite of the high costs of property and higher mortgages
applied for, the average mortgage is £576.”

1924
Nearly 200 claims for inclusion in the Electoral register were dealt with at County
Hall. One case was that of Ida Holben of Harston. She lived in a hut in a field. It
was about 14 by 12 feet and contained some furniture and all her belongings. She
slept there about once a month and had been away for some time. The hut was
assessed separately from the land and she was not on the register elsewhere. The
claim was allowed

1899
The shareholders of the Cambridge and District Starr-Bowkett Building Society are
now in full possession of all the facts concerning the absconding secretary. The
news of his departure from the town leaked out in February when he failed to appear
at the annual audit of the Society’s accounts. The disclosures were of a startling
character, showing defalcations amounting to upwards of £700. The society has been
in existence about 12 years and has a membership roll of upwards of 430

TUESDAY 23rd March

1974
A loyal 94-year-old patron of a century-old Cambridgeshire pub has vowed to give up
beer drinking now that the Golden Lion in Over has closed. Mr Ernest Few, of Fen
End, lifted his first pint there as a lad of 16, which makes him the oldest
customer. For his patronage he received a tankard at the closing down party.
However it seems he will have little use for it. “You ask me what I’ll do when the
Golden Lion closes. Blowed it I’m going to walk after the stuff. Just have to buy a
tin of cocoa, that’s all”

1949

At the annual meeting of the Cambridge Hundred Houses Society the chairman said
they had paid just over £8,000 for the Scotland Farm estate, but had been prevented
from building on it because of the war. Management of the two existing estates at
Eastfield and Fallowfield proceeded on normal lines. Although still in a sound
financial position, the cost of future repairs will be a considerable drain.

1924
A wooden barn containing a straw stack was completely destroyed by fire on the farm
of Mess Tebbit Bros, at Toft. Mr William Hellier of St Ives had tried to telephone
the Borough Fire Brigade, but could not get them. He motored to Cambridge and met
the Brigade as he was entering the town. It appears that someone else had continued
to try to telephone, and had done so after 20 minutes waiting

1899
The result of the boat race was awaited with the greatest interest in Cambridge.
The news that Cambridge had won was received at the office of the Cambridge Daily
News within two minutes of the finish and in less than three minutes the Special
Edition of the C.D.N. containing the welcome intelligence was selling on the
streets. Needless to say, everybody was delighted that the Light Blues had been
victorious

WEDNESDAY 24th March

1974

More than 200 past and present teachers attended a farewell reception for the
retiring Cambridgeshire education chief, Mr George Edwards. He relinquishes his
post after almost 20 years in office. He succeeded the late Mr Henry Morris, whom
he served as deputy for 11 years. Mr Ian Cunningham succeeds him as chief education
officer of the new County Council on April 1st

1949

Cambridge is pioneering in Britain a scheme by which suitable cases, instead of

being nursed in hospital, will be nursed in their own homes, thereby saving up to
30 hospital beds. There was unanimous agreement that the scheme for home nursing
and care could and ought to be bought into operation at the earliest possible
moment. “It has tremendous possibilities”, said Dr Banks. The local health
authorities can do practically anything for the person ill in his own home except
give him money.

1924
Messrs Bailey and Tebbutt made application for possession of the King’s Head public
house at Cottenham on the grounds that the tenant had let the trade go down. The
licensee said he thought it was because their beer was a penny a pint dearer than
that of the house next door. The owners wanted another £9.16s. in rent which he
could not afford, owing to bad trading conditions

1899
The normal quiet of the pretty little village of Hemingford Grey has again been
broken, a situation similar in many respects to that some three years ago. At that
time a strong protest was entered against the action of the majority of the newly
established School Board that led to the dismissal of the then schoolmaster. The
parishioners felt that there was no justification for the step and went to the
length of memorialising the government in the matter. But the opposition was
ineffectual. Now a proposal to dismiss the present master has raised intense
feelings in the parish

THURSDAY 25th March

1974

Chesterton rural council (1894-1974) began its final journey into the history books
of local government when chairman, Coun. Frederick Rhead, removed his chain of
office to mark the end of the council. It disappears next Monday when the area will
be taken over by the larger South Cambridgeshire District Council. It was created
in 1894 when the poor law guardians of the Chesterton union of parishes were
reorganised. The new council met in the Poor Law Institution, now Chesterton
hospital in Union Lane, Cambridge.

1949

Messrs Nicholson and Co, of Cambridge, offered the property known as “Plum’s Café”,
29-31 High St, St Neots, for sale by auction. The bidding was brisk and the
property was sold at £7,700.

1924
At Saffron Walden sessions a labourer was brought up in custody on a charge of
stealing a quantity of potatoes, value 9s., the property of Richard Harvey of
Littlebury. P.C. Bush said he was keeping observation when he saw the prisoner come
down Chestnut avenue with a sack under his arm; he went towards Mr Harvey’s potato
clamp where he stopped and commenced to put something into a bag. Prisoner pleaded
guilty. He had walked miles and could not get work, was hungry and wanted food. He
was sentenced to one month with hard labour.

1899
The huge army of destitute men, women and children who are to-day aimlessly walking
the country from one end to the other presents almost insurmountable difficulties
to the State as well as to individual communities. Nor is the evil a diminishing
one and the man on the road has come to be regarded as a pest of society. Here in
Cambridge he may be seen any day in our midst, his distinguishing features being
his dilatory gait and his wretchedly squalid and unwholesome appearance

FRIDAY 26th March

1974

Robin Page is again finding himself unpopular – this time for publishing some home
truths about his home village, Barton. His book “The decline of an English village”
has upset several residents. He believes that newcomers have diminished the quality
of life of people born and bred in Barton. But the row is unlikely to match the
time he was sacked by the Health Department for offending the Official Secrets Act.

1949

Television brought the boat race into thousands of homes with equipment produced by
Pye Radio Ltd playing a prominent part. A Pye transmitter was on the launch
“Conseuta” and the static cameras from Barnes bridge onwards were a product of the
Cambridge firm. The relay was a tremendous success, with viewers sharing every one
of the thrills of this greatest of all boat races. Approximately 600 people heard
the broadcast in the Central Cinema. This evening there will be a free television
show by Pye in the circle lounge

1924
Six men were injured at the Cambridge University and Tow Gas Works this morning. It
appears that 16 men were engaged in the oxide of iron purifier, when an explosion
occurred. Oxide of iron is used in the manufacture of coal gas, and after having
been in use is revivified by the generation of heat. The explosion was followed by
a fire. It was found necessary to send for the Dennis motor engine so that water
could be pumped from the river

1899
A Somersham labourer was summoned for refusing to quit the Royal Oak, Pidley, when
requested by the landlord. Defendant was in the house between four and five o’clock
and used bad language. When asked to leave he would not and “no two men in Pidley
could put him out”. He appeared very excited. After he had been put out he came
back and knocked very hard on the door, there were blood marks on the door from his
knuckles. Defendant said he was too drunk to know what did happen. He was fined £1
LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 29th March

1974

Cambridge city council met for the last time yesterday. It took the council about
ten seconds to dispose of their formal business – approving the spending of
£1,248,000 on the new central library at the Lion Yard – then they went on to spend
almost two hours saying goodbye to themselves, their retiring chief officers and
exchanging presents. On the last day of the month, the city council, who more or
less in their present form have run Cambridge since 1836 will make way for the new
Cambridge District Council.

1949
A Cambridge firm has scored another technical triumph. The first demonstration of
television in Australia was given in Melbourne with equipment made in Cambridge by
Pye Ltd. The complete television transmitting station and a supply of receivers
were flown to Australia. British enterprise has again won through in face of strong
competition from America.

1924
A fire broke out at the old brewery of Mrs A and B Hall, Waterside, Ely. The
building involved was the painters shop in close proximity to other old buildings.
There was a large consignment of paint and inflammable materials inside at the time
most of which were destroyed. If the fire had occurred in the night, there might
have been a serious disaster

1899
An outcome of the exhibition of motors at the Corn Exchange is a new company under
the title of the Cambridge and Eastern Counties Auto Mobile company. The first
instalment of the new vehicles have already arrived and they can be booked for
parties. They are driven by the Daimler motors, and are in charge of qualified
drivers from the manufacturory

TUESDAY

30th March

1974

Cambridgeshire and Isle of Ely County Council has died at the age of only nine. And
before their chairman, Ald. Maurice Payne, performed the last rites by formally
signing the minutes, he expressed doubts about the wisdom of Whitehall in killing
them off in their prime of life. The council are a victim of the nation-wide local
government reorganisation which comes into effect on 1st April. They are being
replaced by the new Cambridgeshire County Council made up of an amalgamation with
Huntingdon and Peterborough County Council.

1949
Juvenile delinquency is very much in the news at the moment, and the problem of how
to check it is increasingly occupying the attention of social workers. An
experiment in this direction is being conducted in Cambridge at “Winston House”,
Brooklands Avenue. Here, boys in between 14 and 17, who have been in their first
trouble, are given a chance to make good by making them happy members of a little
family, providing useful outlets for their mental and physical energy and helping
them to make right friendships and get a sense of responsibility and self-respect.
1924
Although but a baby in years the Great and Little Shelford and Stapleford Amateur
Sports Association has already proved itself a sturdy infant, with a promising
future before it. A satisfactory state of affairs was revealed at the first annual
meeting. From a small meeting of 16 people has sprung a thriving Association
consisting of over 100 people.

1899
Sawston gave its answer with no uncertain force to those who had forced a contest
on the village for the election of members of the School Board. About 8.30 o’clock
a crowd began to congregate in front of the board school to wait for the
declaration and then it leaked out that there was a difference of one vote between
the two Progressives at the bottom of the poll. The result came as a great surprise
to the progressive party, who had made no secret of the fact that they considered
defeat impossible on their canvas.

WEDNESDAY
31st March

1974

Water services have undergone a sweeping change. The new governing body is the
Anglian Water Authority, who are now responsible for services previously
administered by the river authorities, water boards and local authorities in a huge
area. In Mid Anglia they have taken over responsibilities previously carried out by
22 authorities. Cambridge Water Company will continue to have delegated powers
catering for the needs of nearly 300,000 consumers

1949
A Histon couple have gone into the clean-sweeping business. They bought the suction
sweeper for their own chimneys but were kept so busy by friends, that in the end
they bought a pale blue van and went into business together. A suction sweeper
stands alongside the fire place; a large plate is put over it, and an ordinary
sweep’s brush manipulated through a canvas-covered opening in the plate. Not a
single speck of soot is distributed in the room – it is all sucked into a container
as it falls. The job takes about three-quarters of an hour on a normal chimney, and
costs 7s.6d.

1924
A Saffron Walden man was summoned for making false representation to obtain benefit
under the Unemployment Insurance Act when he signed on for his daughter. The
manager of the local unemployment office made inquiries and found that the child
had been working at a laundry and was paid. The bench looked upon it as a serious
offence. He was sent to prison for 14 days with hard labour.

1899
My father was formerly foreman of works over the restoration of Haddenham church,
during which time a steeplejack accidentally fell off the church and was killed. It
is now rumoured that my father, while in hospital, confessed to pushing the man
from the building, causing his death. I wish to give an unqualified denial to any
such rumours which cast reflections on a man of upright integrity - Water William
Lynn

THURSDAY

1st April
1974

Throughout the country hundreds of local councils are ready for the blast off into
a new age. The council reorganisation which takes place today is the biggest
upheaval ever to affect local government in this country. Hundreds of rural, urban,
borough and city councils are swept away and their places taken by a new structure
of county councils working with a networtk of district authorities. With a wan
smile they have shrugged off the all-too-obvious jokes which were levelled against
the start date for the new administration – April 1st

1949
The Lamb Hotel, Ely, came very near to destruction when fire broke out in a linen
room on the first floor. The room was almost completely gutted. At one time there
was a danger of the fire spreading to a ground-floor store cupboard but fortunately
flames were checked before they gained a good hold. Sub-officer Church of Ely fire
service said: “In another five minutes we should not have got a hold on the fire at
all. Doors and windows were kept closed by the occupants, and it saved the place”

1924
A constables passing Messrs H. Leavis’ pianoforte warehouse, Regent Street,
Cambridge noticed signs of fire. The whole of the upper floor of Messrs Constable’s
stained glass works was gutted and the glass cracked and popped. Messrs Leavis’
premises seem to have suffered from the effects of water. Pianos & portions of
pianos, undamaged by fire were surrounded by pools of dirty water, drops of which
fell with a monotonous slash from the ceiling.

1899
At midnight the new clock which has been erected at St Matthews Church, Cambridge,
will chime for the first time. Until recently the bells of the church hung outside
the building, but now a turret has been erected at the West End and here the clock
has been placed. It is “Ting Tang” quarter clock erected as a memorial to the
vicar’s late wife.

FRIDAY

2nd April

1974

Services which attract large numbers of people are being banned at Mildenhall
Baptist church because of the state of the building. If it deteriorates any more,
the congregation may have to abandon it. The minister, the Rev William Hitchcock,
said he had to switch a wedding to his other church at West Row because of the
large number of guests. “It’s not that the building is unsafe, we are using all the
premises for regular services, but we are anxious not to have a large number of
people to crowd the building out just in case”, he said

1949

As a result of a ruling by the Excise authorities last year, that licences of the
University’s Vice Chancellor do not cover British as well as foreign wines, 16
applications came before the Cambridge magistrates for confirmation. In each case
the people concerned had held licences of the Vice Chancellor under a very ancient
statute, and it was thought that these covered both foreign and British wines

1924
Many local boxing enthusiasts will learn with regret that the death has occurred
of Cox Griffiths, the wrestling and boxing champion. His record at wrestling was a
lengthy and creditable one. He had met several champions on the music hall stage.
By trade he was a blacksmith and a toolmaker but he was perhaps best known as
University instructor. For 20 years he was a publican in Cambridge and recently
carried on business as a bottle merchant and general dealer

1899
The Red Cow Inn concert hall, Guildhall Street, Cambridge. Special engagement for
six nights of Miss Sadie St John, comedienne and dancer; Miss Gracie White, serio
and dancer and Mr G. Kent, comedian and mimic. American bowling saloon now open. -
Advert

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 5th April

1974
Anyone who wants to release pent up tensions and generally let off steam should go
the Abbey stadium when Cambridge United have a game there and shout off their
heads, says the new Mayor of Cambridge, Coun. Jack Warren, President of the United
Supporters. Maintaining his loyalty to the club, he is reluctant to say whether he
thinks they will remain in the third division. “Let me say that if I was a betting
man I would not put much money on their chances”, he said

1949
Cambridge, like the rest of Britain, shrugged off a little bit of austerity when
display lights went on again after ten years. It was only a little bit. For every
lit up shop window in the town centre there were at least ten wrapped in gloom.
Many hotel and public house signs were illuminated and the “great light up” had a
good send off at the flag-bedecked Regal cinema where Mr Morley Stuart, editor of
the C.D.N. operated a specially installed master switch in the foyer. It was the
Regal’s 12th birthday, all but a day

1924
Pictures of the boat race were shown in several local picture theatres on Saturday
night. At the Playhouse the Pathe film of the great contest was thrown on the
screen at 8.25. The last camera from the race arrived at the Pathe studio at about
3.30. The first copy was made at 6.30 and the journey to Cambridge was made by
motor. The audience cheered and roared all the way through the picture, and at the
conclusion the noise was enough to bring the roof down

1899
Another public house has been handed over to the management of the People's
Refreshment House Association Limited. The latest acquisition is the new Rose and
Crown Hotel which has just been erected by the Duke of Bedford at Thorney,
Cambridgeshire. It will be managed more as a house of general refreshment than as a
mere drinking bar and food and non in-toxicants will be given prominence

TUESDAY 6th April

1974
Cambridge city council’s hope of converting the church of St Andrew the Great, in
the city centre, may be dashed by the high cost involved. Estimates for the
conversion work have been put at £137,000. Coun. Mrs Doris Howe said: “It would be
ideal to house organisations like the Citizens’ Advice Bureau, the Tourists’
Information Office and the Consumer protection Advice centres under one roof and
even perhaps think of using part as a Civic Restaurant. But it as an awful lot of
money to spend.
1949
A Cambridge fireman pleased guilty to exceeding the 30 mph speed limit with a fire
service motor lorry on the London-Newmarket road. The police proved a speed of 50
mph near the golf course and said the driver, the holder of a provisional licence,
was driving on L-plates. The fireman said the lorry’s speedometer was defective.
The road was clear at the time and he felt it was a good opportunity to gain
experience of driving at a fast speed – something which was essential in their job.
A fine of £1 was imposed.

1924
Mr T Garrett told Landbeach and Waterbeach Labour Party that the new Labour
government had received a good press to begin with but the difficult times were now
coming upon them. When something to do with mining came up in parliament there were
always half a hundred miners to put the case of the men. But it was quite otherwise
with agriculture. They wanted an agricultural wing 50 strong for the Labour Party.
They must never lose sight of their object which was to push up the wages of the
agricultural labourer and secure a fair return to the smallholder for his hard toil

1899
Cambridge is famed for two things: its university and its sausages. Why should a
great university and good sausages go together? The only solution is that there was
a demand on the part of the University for good sausages, and that the demand
created the supply. A butcher at Wellington, New Zealand advertises that “having
now secured the services of a university man we can supply real Cambridge sausages
at five lbs for one shilling”. He is clearly of the belief that at the University
of Cambridge the making of sausages is a special branch of instruction. Such is
fame!

WEDNESDAY 7th April

1974
The Exorcist the controversial film about demonic possession, gained its first
hospital victim in Cambridge last night. A young girl was taken to New
Addenbrooke’s by ambulance from the Victoria 1 cinema to add to the tally of more
than 50 cases of treatment since the film opened on Sunday. “We haven’t had
anything like this since the days of Ben Hur, 15 years ago”, said Mr Colin McCurdy,
a senior officer of the St John Ambulance Brigade. “Most of them have fainted, a
few have been sick, others have been giddy and in all these cases there has been
some shock”. The cinema manager said the film was claiming between eight and 12
victims a day

1949
“I think within 20 years time a considerable quantity of our electricity will be
produced by the disintegration of uranium rather than the burning of coal”, Dr T.
Allibone told the British Electricity Authority’s school at Cambridge. Within the
next 30 years possibly all the world’s power would be produced from uranium. “You
will have to get rid of about 200 tons of fission products per annum. Where are you
gong to take it? What you produce is like radium. It is terribly dangerous, and
goes on being dangerous for a decade”. The problem of the disposal of radio-active
fission products is one of the greatest sociological problems of the whole lot

1924
Cambridgeshire county council resolved to recommend to the Secretary of State the
protection of chaffinch, hedgesparrow, wren, robin and other insect feeding birds
and their eggs in the parishes of Cottenham, Willingham Melbourn and Burwell for
the special reason that these birds consume large quantities of insects which do
enormous damage to the fruit growing districts.

1899
The annual vestry was held in at St Ives when there was a large attendance of
church people, and also a number of nonconformists. It was expected there would be
some "life" infused into the proceedings owing to the usual printed notices not
having been issued, no notices placed on the chapel doors, and the time and place
of the meeting had been altered. Those who went with the object of enjoying the
“fun” were not disappointed. Mr Osbourne said they were on the eve of another
change of vicar. These changes had come more frequently than some of them wished.

THURSDAY 8th April

1974

When Cherry Mann moved into a council house in Holbrook Road, Cambridge this week
it was not just a new home for her but the beginning of a whole new way of life. It
was a dream came true. She has been severely disabled by a rare and incurable
disease for more than 30 years, and her home for the last three years has been a
hospital bed. The house been converted into a self-contained flat with wide sliding
doors, accessible light switches and doors on to a specially-built patio so that
she can propel herself in her wheelchair into the fresh air. “It is just incredible
to be here”, she said.

1949

Concern at the inadequacy of the medical service afforded to the people of Fulbourn
village was expressed at Cambridge Trades Council’s meeting. A member said when a
doctor was acquired, by paying, from Cambridge, he was there with alacrity. “If you
can pay then you will get your doctor straight away”. If the residents of Fulbourn
could get a minimum number of patients required by a doctor – about 2,000 – and a
list of signatures to send to the Local Executive Committee they were forced to try
and provide the village with a doctor.

1924
At Ely council Colonel Archer proposed the provision of non-parlour cottages with
three bedrooms. Some might say a working man was entitled to his parlour.
Unfortunately it was quite impossible for farm labourers to pay eight shillings a
week in rent. If the council built cottages having two living rooms the tenants
would use one in which to cook and to live and keep the other one “tidy. “

1899
The foolhardiness of trespassing on the railway has been strikingly exemplified by
a shocking accident near Black Bank station a few miles from Ely. A platelayer
after drinking with a friend at the Railway Tavern proceeded homewards along the
railway. It was one of the darkness of nights, and the wind, howling across the
fens, probably had the effect of making the noise of an approaching train
inaudible. Both men had only covered a short distance when one observed the light
of a train at close quarters and shouted to his companion, who unfortunately
stepped the wrong way and thus met his fate.

FRIDAY 9th April

1974

An estimated 500 million people will watch the Eurovision Song Contest. There are
more girls than every before competing including Olivia Newton-John, the Cambridge
born United Kingdom hope. She lived here as a child, though in 1955 she left for
Australia with her parents. Olivia was non-committal about her song “Long Live
Love”. (She came equal fourth. The winners were Abba with “Waterloo”)

1949

The vast majority of the 6,000 people who attended Saturdays outstandingly
successful point-to-point meeting at Moulton left without knowing that one of the
riders in the ladies race had been rushed to hospital with serious injuries
following a fall. She died in hospital less than 24 hours later. It was unfortunate
that tragedy should have marred a meeting, the success of which was so richly
deserved. The course at Moulton is about 3 ½ miles with14 jumps and a long uphill
stretch that calls for the best in all horses

1924
A meeting was held at Saffron Walden cinema to incorporate a company of the Essex
Regiment (Territorial Army). Previously they had a company of the Saffron Walden
cyclists battalion. Unfortunately during the war the cyclists were found to be of
no further use. It was the only town of any size in Essex without a territorial
representation and they wanted them to supply a company of 100 to 150 men. Several
young men were afterwards enrolled at the Town Hall

1899
Frederick Morden told Cambridge court that the prisoner represented himself to be
the representative of Messrs Stubbs Directory & asked if his advertisement should
be inserted for another year. The price of the advertisement was four shillings
which he paid. Later another representative called canvassing for the 1900
directory and he paid another five shillings. The managing director of Stubbs
publishing said the prisoner had been employed as an agent for many years but had
heard nothing from him since September. On searching the prisoner a number of slips
of paper containing the names of different tradesmen were found.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 12 th April

1974

A gang of hooligans are terrorising old folk living on the Arbury estate in
Cambridge, says County Councillor Mrs Janet Jones. She said the gang have let off
fire extinguishers in the Edgecombe flats, cut down washing lines in the gardens of
old peoples’ bungalows, gathered at Arbury Court refusing to allow old people to
pass and rampaged along the alleyways linking Crowland Way with Campkin Road,
smashing dozens of windows in garden sheds. “There appears to be a gang going round
and there is not much else one can do except to ask them to behave themselves”, she
said

1949
Three families were rendered homeless when fire swept through the thatched roofs of
two 300-year-old cottages in Linton and spread to a tiled house adjoining. The
cottages were converted many years ago out of Little Joiners farmhouse, which was
built in 1651. It is believed that a spark from a chimney fire started the blaze.
Some distance away are Messrs Holttum’s premises where paint is stored. Paintwork
on the outside of this building was blistered by the heat but firemen stopped the
flames from spreading to it.

1924
Newmarket rural council heard that Messrs Lack and sons had completed the boring of
the well at Reach, and the water had been analysed and found fit for drinking
purposes. It was recommended that the mayor of Cambridge be asked to declare the
pump open when he attends to open the Reach fair

1899
The lady Churchwarden is still something of a novelty, nevertheless she has come
to stay. At the recent Easter vestry at Thetford, near Ely, Miss Jarrow was for the
sixth times in succession elected people's Churchwarden, and the election had the
hearty approval of the Rector who spoke in the highest terms of her ability and the
way she managed the parish accounts. But Great Staughton in Huntingdonshire has
gone one better and both the Churchwardens are ladies. So far this is the only
parish in the country which can boast of two lady churchwardens

TUESDAY 13th April

1974

There has been less than 1 /25th of an inch of rain during the last 21 days – and
that was before the drought period began 18 days ago. Yet the subterranean water
table is showing a considerable improvement on its level at the same time last year
when there was an eight-inch deficit. “It will probably be a matter of two years
before we get back to the level which existed two years ago”, said a Water engineer

1949
The new school at Trumpington is to be known as the “Fawcett” primary school. It is
being named after Prof. Henry Fawcett, who died in 1884. He was well-known to a
former generation as “the blind postmaster general”, and was one of the first
holders of the Chair of Political Economy in Cambridge University. He lived in
Brookside, and was buried in Trumpington churchyard. He was a man who had set an
outstanding example of courage in the face of misfortune.

1924
As climax to many months efforts on the part of those concerned, the stone-laying
ceremony of the Trumpington Free Church Sunday school new building took place. The
outside world might not look upon it as a very big thing, that somewhere in a
little village in England it had been found necessary to enlarge Sunday school, but
they in Trumpington knew that it meant that the Kingdom of Jesus Christ was not
falling and, if in spite of all obstacles, it had triumphed there, there was the
promise that one-day it would triumph everywhere.

1899
Sir - it is not true that West Wratting parish charities gave coal to well-to-do
labourers, earning good wages. There are no good wages given in the parish; eleven
shillings a week, out of which 1s.6d weekly is deducted for rent, cannot be said to
be good. No labourer to whom it was distributed had three fat pigs in his sty. One
man certainly had two, much to his credit and diligence. He was half blind, had
lost one eye, was a widower, and had had a son out of work for several months. When
it was found that it was impossible for the charity to give such a man a dole, a
gentleman, much interested in the welfare of these poor labourers, gave this man a
hundredweight of coal out of his own stock.- “One who knows”

WEDNESDAY 14th April

1974
Cherry Hinton residents were up in arms after they woke up to find a thick film of
dust sprinkled over their gardens, houses and cars after a breakdown in the nearby
Norman Cement Works. The dust showered during the night from a tall chimney known
locally as “Smokey Joe” which dominates one of the new estates. A resident said
“Its all very fine to talk about cars but we must be breathing this stuff in 24
hours a day”

1949
Delay in Cambridge corporation authority’s gaining access to 40 acres of allotments
in Coleridge Road in readiness for their use as a housing site would upset the rate
of the council’s housing programme, it was stated at an Inquiry. The corporation
owned two other areas of land for housing. One, recently purchased, was in Queen
Edith’s Way. The other, the Arbury road site, it was proposed to develop as a
neighbourhood unit with ultimately 1,000 houses, but it was unlikely it could be
adequately serviced for building for at least 2 ½ years

1924
Mr T Peake said that at the present moment there was a library in Littleport, and
he could assure them that there was hardly one book in it that he would care to
find a place for in his home. For many years, he believed, it had not been used,
but that did not alter the fact that there was a very strong desire for a supply of
good books. The Isle of Ely county council was a very progressive one and he was
sure that the members would not dare to go to their wives and tell them they had
voted against the Carnegie scheme. It was very rarely a wife got anything out of
the county council - but she would certainly get something from the libraries

1899
A few of the employees at the Cambridge post office had been tempting fortune by
“backing their fancies", but luck was against them, and the bookmaker had
considerably the better of the deal. They conceived a plan. Bets are made
frequently by post and telegram, lately one bookmaker noticed that post office
employees had an unusual run of luck. Inquiries were made and a well thought-out
system was working by which their communications to the bookmaker, though stamped
with the time some hours before the race, were not dropped into the letter bags
until the result of the race was known. In this way they have been raking-in
considerable sums

THURSDAY 15th April

1974
Truly, Christians are crazy. In the bitter cold before dawn, 250 of them huddled on
the frosted Gog Magog hills to sing to the sound of 13 guitars and a tambourine.
They had travelled from the warm beds and frozen bird baths of suburban Cambridge
to bring sanity to society. This was the local launching of Power in the Land, a
year-long national evangelical campaign by Christians of all makes. We had most
sorts in our lot yesterday, from high Anglican to Plymouth Brethren – Christopher
South

1949
South Cambridgeshire Rural District Council are of the opinion that Gamlingay
should remain in Cambridgeshire with the exception of that portion near Tempsford
station. Mr C.H. Careless said this vitally affected village people and they should
have the last word. “You must remember that we are Bedfordshire for practically
every convenience – postal, labour exchange, railways etc. We have not a single bus
running daily into any Cambridgeshire centre”.

1924
 Newmarket council heard there were 139 unfit houses in the town and 34 in Exning.
There were a number of families whose bread-winners work in Newmarket, but for lack
of houses they had been forced to get cottages in the surrounding rural districts.
The council had satisfied themselves that the demand for houses could not be met
without public assistance. There was no building going on, or likely to go on in
the district in regard to the type of houses proposed

1899
The greasy state of the asphalt road near Christ’s college, Cambridge, was
responsible for a nasty accident. About one o'clock Major Francis of Mill House,
Quy, was driving a horse attached to a light spring cart, when the animal slipped
down and the Major was thrown violently to the ground. His coachman jumped from the
vehicle and escaped injury. Major Francis was not so fortunate. His fall shook him
severely, and when two constables came to his assistance he was in a semi-conscious
state.

FRIDAY 16th April

1974
There have been big changes in shopping habits at Royston over the past decade and
now, with addition of a new supermarket and extensive modernisation of many stores,
the town can boast that they are able to cater for all the major needs of the
modern family. Easily accessible by car, bus or train, it has become increasingly
popular among a wider range of neighbouring villages whose inhabitants have found
other shopping centres too inaccessible or too congested. Royston with its
pedestrian precinct does not have either of these worries.

1949
A police radio network covering Cambridgeshire, the Isle of Ely, Huntingdonshire
and Peterborough has come into operation. Now within a few minutes of any incident
being reported the nearest cruising police cars can be speeding to the spot. Radio
will help greatly in car theft cases, enabling descriptions of missing vehicles to
be circulated in a few seconds over a wide area. The Fire Brigade is also in the
scheme. The master station through which the whole scheme is controlled is situated
at County Police Headquarters, Castle Hill, Cambridge.

1924
Councillor Few said in the most populated sections of Cambridge, where men are
going out and coming from work in the early hours of the morning, it was really a
disgrace that they should have to find their way in darkened streets. Alderman
Starr said he was surprised to hear that the railway men were not more brave in
going through the streets on dark nights. The police had electric torches. The
number of men engaged on night work was very small indeed, and it would be more
economical for the council to supply them with torches

1899
An artist, residing at Hemingford Grey petitioned for divorce. In 1896 he took a
house for the summer at St Ives and his wife became acquainted with the co-
respondent who bore a bad character in the neighbourhood with regard to his conduct
with ladies. Later on he heard rumours about the village regarding respecting his
wife's conduct and she left next day. A few days after there was a great commotion,
effigies of her and the co-respondent being burned opposite the house.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 19th April

1974

The barman with the fastest gulp in St Neots, 46-year-old Edwin Cheeseman, looks
set to hold on to his month-old record for sinking a pint. Edwin, an agricultural
worker of Eaton Socon, has fought off a score of challenges at the Greenacres pub,
Longsands, all determined to better his astounding 3.1 seconds to drink a pint.
None has succeeded. “The secret is just to open up you throat and pour, there’s no
time to swallow”, he explained

1949

Cambridge shopkeepers reported good Easter business in all departments. But very
few women were able to buy a new pair of nylons for the holidays. All first grade
nylons are now exported. Only a trickle of “seconds” is coming into the shops. But
for all the “Easter bonnets” bought, few were to be seen in the streets. The
heatwave weather which bought people out in their thousands made hatlessness more
than ever the order of the day

1924
In the early hours of Easter Monday morning a fire broke out at Great Mortimer’s
Farm, Ashdon, owned by Mr Thomas Reeve. His wife was awakened by the coughing of
the children and found the house was in flames. She at once raised an alarm and the
police and Saffron Walden fire brigade were sent for. In the meantime neighbours
succeeded in removing horses and stock from the farm buildings, and the machinery
and buildings were save by their united efforts. The fire brigade arrived but owing
to the bad state of the lane leading from the main road to the farm, it was
impossible to get the engine up to the site of the fire & the house was entirely
destroyed

1899
Tudor’s circus provides thoroughly enjoyable evening’s amusement, and large numbers
continue to take advantage of the efficient catering. This week Mr Tudor has been
successful in securing the services of George Lockhart and his troupe of performing
elephants. They perform many clever tricks & a series of gymnastics exercises. The
smallest of the three rides a tricycle around the arena; the older two waltz to
slow music and the three combine in a short - happily short - concert and perform
other diverting antics. The turn arouses a great deal of enthusiasm, and is really
worth seeing

TUESDAY 20th April

1974

Four youths were arrested and three needed hospital treatment when 1,000 pop fans
went on the rampage at Cambridge Corn Exchange. 68 windows were smashed and police
with dogs took an hour to restore order. Police said trouble started when an
American group, The Drifters, failed to appear. The packed hall had waiting for 90
minutes for the group to turn up. Each had paid £1.10p. to get into the 8pm to 1am
pop concert

1949
Fred G. Rule, the man responsible for preparing pitches on which such famous
crickets as Jack Hobbs, Tom Hayward and Jack O’Connor played in their Cambridge
days has retired. When he first took over the post of custodian the corporation
provided only the pitches, the actual equipment was hired out to the teams by
Messrs. Hayward’s. It was in 1922 that the corporation took over the provision of
such things as goal posts.

1924
Walter Flack said he was driving a tumbril cart along Emmanuel Road, Cambridge,
and when he got to the corner he saw that tarring was in progress. He took a wide
sweep to avoid an accident and a labourer shouted to him to get off the tar. He
stopped and got out because his horse was restive and asked why he was shouting,
when he was hit over head with a broom, knocking him to his knees. The wound was 11
inches long, penetrating to the bone. He was taken home in the police ambulance.
John Mayes, a cinema attendant, said he was pulling the advertisement trolley of
the Central cinema and saw the occurrence

1899
The days of the Cambridge Spinning House are numbered. It is to be pulled down in
order that a house of detention after the best approved modern ideas may arise on
its site. There is no more stirring chapter in the history of modern Cambridge than
that which this forbidding looking building in St Andrews Street recalls. It speaks
of many things which the Cambridge of today is glad to forget. It is an ugly
monument of an ugly feud between the authorities of the University and town. The
feud is dead: would that the razing to the ground of the Spinning House were
sufficient to efface all memory of it

WEDNESDAY 21st April

1974

A blue double-decker bus interrupted an historical pageant when it trundled slowly

down Haslingfield High Street between a clutch of monks and Queen Elizabeth I
riding side-saddle. It became part of a two-day festival to raise money for the
restoration of the parish church. The embarrassed passengers looked sternly in
front of them as the crowd clapped and cheered an old woman alighting at the bus
stop.

1949

A fine of £2 was imposed on a van driver for careless driving at the junction of
Hills Road and Brooklands Avenue, Cambridge. P.C. J. Ramsey said he saw a “Keep
Left” bollard in the centre of the road, damaged and tipped over to one side.
Defendant told him he had hit it. He said that new bread inside the van had steamed
up the windows and windscreen.

1924

That enterprising organisation the Cambridgeshire Band of Hope Union, under the
energetic direction of Mr and Mrs David Moore, are giving the pageant of old
Cambridge, “Olde Sturbridge Fair” in the Guildhall next week. This pageant was
first produced in 1914 with great success. It has now been re- written and includes
a weird and fantastic scene with a witch and her retinue of Cambridgeshire imps,
with which she hopes to work dire evil on Cambridge town. It is hoped
schoolteachers will take parties of children to see this locally historical pageant

1899
An inquiry held heard that half of the Spinning House was occupied as a police
station. It had been built about 1840 and was far from up to date. There was no
difference between the accommodation for male and female prisoners, and any women
that might be kept in the police station all night had to be attended to by police
constables on duty, there being no female warders or matrons. The cells were clean
and in good order but were quite inadequate for the requirements of the town

THURSDAY 22nd April

1974

People feel sorry for Shirley Leivers. “They often come out with things like, ‘You
must a terrible time at home with him’”, she told me, as she came perilously close
to falling off her chair with laughter. “Him” refers to her husband, Bill Leivers,
manager of Cambridge United, the man who put Cambridge on the football map, the
former “iron man” of Manchester City, who is seen by some as “the ogre of the Abbey
stadium”. United, the club he took from Southern League obscurity to the Third
Division of the Football League in just four seasons have faltered, and fallen
straight back to Division Four

1949

Albert Lavender, greengrocer of Ely, said he kept the cabin of a motor lorry on
land at Middle Fen. The windscreen was on the cabin last week but on Tuesday was
missing. P.C. Vincent told of seeing the defendant at Webb’s scrapyard in Stuntney
road. He at first denied all knowledge of the windscreen but later stated that he
took it to make a new window for the rear of his car. He was fined £2

1924
Six standpipes had been supplied to Fulbourn, when there were 12 houses with their
own water supply. These houses had since been sold by the Charity owning them and
had passed into different hands. The owner of the house to which one particular
pipe was attached objected to it being used by others, and the only course to adopt
was to ask the Cambridge Water Company to install a standpipe at the cost of £6 per
year. Mr Jackson said there was a pipe within 150 yards of the area concerned, and
he could not see why this additional pipe should be a charge on the parish. Other
people had to come much further than that

1899
An exhibition of articles produced by students attending technical education
classes was opened at Cambridge Guildhall. Many samples of straw plaiting work were
entered by pupils from Guilden Morden, Steeple Morden and Tadlow. It is to be hoped
that after another 12 months instruction the revival of straw plaiting in these
localities as an industry will be an established fact

FRIDAY 23rd April

1974

Clive James and Peter Atkins write some of the best songs. They are always classic
essays in lyric writing, perceptive, incisive, studied and restrained – and a long
way from rock lyric writing. The lyrics are written by Clive, Peter is the musician
and performer – and they both live in Cambridge. Their partnership cemented while
they were both students. Evidence of the excellence of their music can be heard on
three albums by Atkin including: “A king at nightfall”

1949
“If you had a Tory government again I should say you would go through revolution”,
said Mr A.E. Stubbs, Socialist MP for Cambridgeshire. “You cannot picture the mass
of working-class people in this country allowing any government to end the
nationalisation of the mines, railways and transport”. In his judgement there was
never going to be another Conservative government in this country. “The fight
coming is between Socialism on the one side and Communism on the other”, he said

1924
A consistory court heard a petition by the vicar of St Andrew the Great,
Cambridge, for permission to sell to the corporation a strip of land in the church
grounds required for street widening purposes. They all knew that the streets were
hopelessly inadequate to deal with the volume of traffic which passed through. The
only possible alternative would be to pull down the front of Christ College. If
that strip of churchyard were taken and added to the street there might be less
risk of accident, and the church would not press the claims of the dead at the
expense of the claims of the living

1899
Tudor’s Circus, Auckland road, Cambridge. At great expense. Engagement of the
greatest Wonder on Earth. The Colibris midgets, nine in number, nine Liliputian
people as read of in Gulliver’s travels. These miniature male and female artistes
ranging from 21 to 29 inches in height, acknowledged to be the marvels of the age.
See the midget acrobatics, the midget Christy minstrels, the midget gymnastics and
equilibrists, the midget musical grotesques, the midget vocalists. See their
handsome midget ponies and the magnificent miniature carriages - Advert

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 26th April

1974

Plans are being discussed for another hospital to serve the Cambridge area in a bid
to ease staff and administration problems at the giant new Addenbrooke’s in Hills
Road, Cambridge. The Department of Health have indicated that they think the
ultimate 1,700-bed hospital is too big to be managed satisfactorily and too
difficult to staff adequately. Officials have been studying surveys with a view to
siting the new hospital near where it could best recruit nursing and ancillary
staff. Ideally this would be near a big housing estate such as Arbury

1949

Sweets. That seems to have been the word on everyone’s’ lips over the weekend and
Cambridge people have been rushing madly to see what they can buy. Once again the
familiar war-time queues have reappeared and grown-ups, heedless of the Ministry of
Food request to let the children buy first, have been swarming to the shops. Some
of the shops opened on Sunday with young children who have never known the
experience of being able to buy sweets without having to hand over coupons being
prominent among the crowds

1924
“A regular hive of industry, without a drone” and “one of the most thrifty and
industrious parishes in England” were remarks when presentations were made to the
Rev John Cyprian Rust who has carried through 50 years of faithful and devout
service as vicar of Soham. Looking back he had seen the closing down of several
beer shops and less drunkenness was his reward. People could scarcely believe how
thrifty all the women had been. They had learned to live and keep a family on 14
shillings a week, supplementing it by little gains from the commons and so on.

1899
The inconsistency with which Great Britain treats her soldiers is illustrated at a
coroners inquest at Linton concerning the death of John Lindsell. He was a farm
servant, 68 years of age. While at his work he fell off a ladder and in a week he
was dead. No blame attached to any one. He had served in the Crimean War where he
received a shot through the shoulder. But in old age and feeble health he was
compelled, that he might have bread for his wife and himself, to do the hard work
of a farmer servant

TUESDAY 27th April

1974

Council tenants will move into four-bedroomed homes on a high-class privately built
housing estate in St Ives if Whitehall agrees. Huntingdon district council say they
are waiting for the go-ahead to buy a dozen empty houses on the White Cross estate,
Ramsey road. But home owners already living there are continuing their protests
that it would be unfair to have half the estate council–owned and the rest in
private hands

1949

With its cold grey stonework glittering in the rays of the brilliant sun Linton war
memorial was unveiled for a second time. On the first occasion, after the 1914-18
war, 46 names were inscribed on it and on Sunday when the Union Jack fell from the
memorial at the touch of Mrs E. W. Morley, there were revealed a further 13 names
of men who died in the 1939-45 war. Several hundred villagers gathered around the
memorial situated in the graveyard on a little mound overlooking the village.
Although it was a solemn occasion there were splashes of colour from the summer
dresses of the women.

1924
The new showroom of Messrs Herbert Robinson Ltd, Regent Street, Cambridge was
formally opened. There is room for the display of 15 cars at a time, and those at
present on view include such well known makes as Vauxhall, Fiat, Hillman, Citroen,
Daimler and Calthorpe, all of the latest type. Demonstration runs will be given,
with no obligation to buy. They will take your present motor car in part exchange
for a new one, and arrange deferred payments if you wish.

1899

No small amount of excitement has been aroused in the villages between Cambridge
and Harlow during the past few days, by a nightly succession of robberies from
churches. No less than seven or eight have been entered but the thieves have not
repaid themselves for their trouble. However, they are evidently adept at their
nefarious calling, for they eluded the vigilance of the police, who have thoroughly
scoured the district. At Pampisford the church was broken into. The miscreants were
evidently in search of booty, for the bureau in the vestry was forced open, but
they found nothing. A candle was used, as tallow grease was found in the vestry

WEDNESDAY 28th April

1974

The Government have refused to give any more financial handouts to Cambridgeshire
ratepayers this year. Changes made by the late Conservative government in the local
government system have had an adverse effect on the new county. Under the rate
support grant system it receives about $5 million less than the total received by
the former county councils
1949

Standing waist-high to the Newmarket housewives who gathered to welcome Princess

Elizabeth to the town, was bright-eyed 7 ½ year old Peggy Matthews. When Princess
Elizabeth alighted from her car and began to climb the steps to Palace House, Peggy
started to cry. Asked what was the matter, she clung to her mother and sobbed: “She
hasn’t brought Prince Charles with her”. Yesterday’s visit was unique in that for
the first time HRH stayed at Palace House, her official Newmarket residence.
Princess Elizabeth rode a hack on the heath this morning and spoke to a number of
jockeys and stable employees

1924

Sir - Cambridge council practically excludes modest women - and men - from the new
bathing place, unless they are prepared to do violence to their own decent
instincts. What the council practically declares is in effect, ‘Go and bathe as
domestic animals do, male and female all together - they never object so why should
you?’ What this atrocious decision means is that decent men and modest women are to
be excluded from all reasonable participation in a very pleasant summer exercise -
A Decent Englishwoman

1899
Ely council heard that at Littleport all well water was condemned for drinking
purposes, the only supply left being the river. Many houses were not provided with
water tanks or cisterns, and many instances water was actually being sold for weeks
in dry weather, when there was no rain. This rain water was subject to
contamination from birds and smoke, and required filtering to be palatable and
safe. No doubt the outlay for a pure water supply would cause a little outcry at
first, but advantages would far surpass the disadvantages and additional rates

THURSDAY 29th April

1974

Rising costs facing the electricity supply industry meant that Eastern Electricity
was heavily in the red. But sort-term difficulties should not inhibit the long-term
development of the industry. “With its ability to use poor qualities of coal and
oil and with the growth of nuclear energy, this industry is destined to play an
increasing role in the energy supply of this country”, the Chairman said.

1949
Cambridge council were told that some 20 years ago Messrs Pye asked for the Church
meadow, Chesterton, to build a factory. There was strong opposition in letters to
the press. It was one of the beauty spots of “a drab place called Old Chesterton”.
It was pointed out then that the firm would spread out and that was what had
happened. The land concerned was 2½ acres of valuable front land which the council
purchased before the war and which the people of Chesterton were told was going to
be a park. If the council did not sell the land Pyes might move their factory. The
decision to sell was confirmed.

1924
The Cambridge and district Co-operative Society opened at Stansted its 19th
branch. This is an up-to-date grocery and provisions shop, with smart modern front
and fittings, and there is no doubt that it will meet a long felt want in the
district. Business was exceedingly brisk at the shop for some time after it had
been declared open and many new members were made. Previously it had been supplied
by a delivery service from the Bishop Stortford branch, and the convenience of now
having a shop in one of the best positions in the town will be of considerable
benefit

1899
Under the auspices of the Free Church Federation
celebrated at Huntingdon. Flags and bunting were
wore a holiday aspect. About 500 people sat down
demonstration on Market Hill numbering thousands
of the hymn “Onward Christian Soldiers”
the Cromwell tercentenary was
liberally displayed, and the town
to a public luncheon. An afternoon
of people opened with the singing

FRIDAY 30th April

1974

One of the most significant features of the reorganisation of local government from
1st April 1974, has been the changes in function. Cambridge city council will have
no further responsibility for education, libraries, weights and measures, sewage
disposal, or the domicilliary health service. The advantages claimed for the
transfer of these services to larger bodies should lead to greater specialisation,
the adoption of improved methods and techniques, better levels of service and
economy of scale. Time will show whether these ideals can be realised.

1949

Councillor James protested at the “deliberate wrecking” of partly-built houses on

the Newmarket road housing estate, Cambridge. He mentioned emptying the petrol out
of concrete mixers; filling motor carburettors with sand; filling manholes with
bricks; pushing down thin walls where the mortar was still wet; and smashing sheets
of glass. Police had interviewed three delinquents but it was obvious there were
many more.

1924

There has been considerable indignation caused in St Ives by the town council’s
proposals to purchase the residential property known as Stanley House on the Market
Hill for £1,200 & to convert the same into a town hall and offices. It is felt by
the majority of the ratepayers that the building is not suitable for such a
purpose, and that the cost of converting it and the upkeep afterwards will entail a
very heavy expenditure on the rates. This scheme has therefore amassed a very
strong opposition on the part of several of the most influential men of the town,
including medical men and solicitors. A memorial has been drawn up and signed by
nearly 960.

1899
In supporting the Cambridge town council recommendations that their advertisements
should be inserted in the three oldest newspapers only, Mr Alderman Joshua Taylor
said they would then surely have those with the largest circulation. He is a
director of the company which owns the “Cambridge Express. We claim circulation of
the “Cambridgeshire Weekly News”, in its various editions, exceeds the combined
circulation of any two of the three papers selected by the Corporation.” If he can
show this claim is incorrect we undertake to pay £10 to Addenbrooke’s Hospital

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 3rd May

1974
A controversial street traffic experiment was being scrapped today. Council workmen
were removing the bollards which had blocked Cambridge’s Gwydir and Sturton streets
to through traffic for the past three months, after the traffic committee decided
the experiment had been a failure. Dozens of residents from neighbouring streets
packed into the meeting to hear the debate on the future of the scheme. Afterwards
the residents’ association chairman, Mr Ian Henden, said: “This just shows what
people can do when they stick together.”

1949

A toenail she had not cut for five years led to the death from tetanus of a 73-
year-old lady of Over. The nail had grown right round the toe into the skin
underneath it. Her son said he did all he could to persuade his mother to have
proper attention, but she was quite independent and declined the advice. She had
had a bad toenail for about 17 years but would not have it removed

1924
Sir - I have every reason to believe ignorant people are doing all they can to
prevent young ladies marrying healthy and industrious blind citizens. I have myself
quite recently been robbed of a good and kind little lady, residing in Romsey town,
by some person secretly informing her that if she has anything to do with me she
will be having a family of blind children. Nor is this by any means the only case
that I know of, and as it is a false and unfair statement, and a disgrace to any of
our modern British public, the time has arrived when this sort of thing should be
stopped. - One of the local blind

1899
At the swearing-in of parish constables at Bottisham Mr Alex said their duties had
of late become partially obsolete. Parish constables were the rank and file of the
Civil army of the country. The office was a most important one, and the county was
taking steps to revise the fees of parish constables, and was trying to put them on
a more active basis than a had been for many years. In that way they would serve
their Queen better, and deserve the thanks of the country

TUESDAY 4th May

1974

Parking may soon cost up to 50% more at some of the Cambridge’s city council parks.
If suggestions are accepted the charge at Park Street will go up from 5p to 7p an
hour with a maximum rate of 75p for more than five hours. The present maximum is
50p. The daily charge for the Queen Anne Terrace (multi) and the Saxon street
ground level park will go up from 10p to 15p. At New Square the maximum for more
than five hours will rise to 40p.

1949

The Drummer Street bus station is a topic always sure of a lively discussion at
Women’s Institute meetings. At the annual meeting of the Cambridgeshire Federation
the present provisions were condemned in no uncertain terms. A Fulbourn member
thought it would be a waste to spend more money on the existing system, which was
all wrong. Advocating the use of New Square she spoke of the danger to children
running across the road after school to catch buses. “There will be a fatal
accident there before long, then perhaps something will be done”, she said

1924
An inquest was held on a 57-year-old general labourer, in the employ of the
Cambridge Brick Company, who died as a result of injuries received in a fall of
earth. Charles Peters, 62, said he was working some nine feet from the deceased in
a clay pit. He was picking and the deceased was filling trucks. The front fell off
from the face of the pit, two tons fell. Not three minutes before the accident he
had examined the top of the pit. There were two sets of railways and the clay fell
between these two. The work had been carried on for many years and all were fully
alive to what might happen

1899
The tripe season. Established over 50 years. E. J. Edwards, Fitzroy Street,
Cambridge. The only wholesale and retail neats’ feet and tripe dresser, and glaze
manufacturer. Eat Edwards’ tripe (fresh boiled daily). Recommended by the most
eminent medical men as a safe cure for weak stomach and impaired digestion. All the
leading colleges and hotels supplied. - Advertisement

WEDNESDAY 5th May

1974

Labour peer Lord Walston of Thriplow, said today that despite his plea in the House
of Lords for a £35 a week minimum agricultural wage for farm workers he could only
afford to pay that amount to one or two of his own workers. He said that until
provisions had been made for farmers to get better returns from the market it would
not be possible to pay the wages he wanted for farm workers. People could not, and
ought not, to rely on cheap food bought at bargain prices

1949

At 15 group operations room of the Royal Observer Corps in Newmarket road,

Cambridge, 20 or 30 blue-dashed uniformed men and women took part in a big Observer
Corps exercise. Everywhere the sharp-eyed observers at their remote posts reported
aircraft in a formula giving the type, number and height. Meteors, Hornets,
Messengers, Ansons, Skymasters and Lincolns were some of the aircraft spotted and
plotted – the RAF boys doing their best to fox the spotters by hedge-hopping and
500 miles an hour

1924

Through the munificence of Sir Charles and Lady Walston, handsome iron gates in the
early English style have been erected at the entrance to the King's College grounds
on the Backs. Sir Charles presented them to the college. Mr A W Elwood the maker of
the gates, presented the key to Lady Walston who opened them.

1899
Coldham’s Common, Cambridge where the Suffolk Regiment is to undergo its annual
training is a scene of bustle and animation, the recruits of the regiment having
arrived to go through their musketry course before the whole regiment assembles.
The camp occupiers the whole of the town side of the common. The officers quarters
are situated at the bridge end and extend in three rows to the railway. There are
the usual latrines and cooking paraphernalia. In this regiment the old earthen
ovens are to be abolished, and army cooking ranges, and an ingenious device known
as the Aldershot oven substituted. A hospital tents is, of course, an item

THURSDAY 6th May

1974
Cambridgeshire county council member, Mrs Janet Jones, strongly tipped in political
circles as the city’s next prospective Labour parliamentary candidate, has
withdrawn from the nomination scramble. She said she could help Labour’s cause by
concentrating on her local council work in Cambridge and the rural area. “I
sincerely believe local government can give more practical help to the people of
Cambridge”

1949

Announced as Miss Cambridgeshire at the Glamour Ball at the Rex Ballroom Miss Betty
Goddard of Cambridge heard another announcement ten minutes later that a mistake
had been made, and the title really belonged to Miss Winifred Millard of Pretoria
road. As Miss Cambridgeshire she will be eligible for the Hunstanton Beauty Queen
contest, Miner’s Beauty Contest and her photograph is being submitted in the Sunday
Despatch competition.

1924

The village of Stansted was startled by a fireball which fell near the main London
Road, made a sound like a big explosion, and formed a crater several feet wide. It
came up again under the roadway, with another big bang, several yards away, cut
through the gas main, which burnt afterwards for two hours, knocked a motor-cyclist
of his machine & travelled along a line of barbed wire for 40 yards, wrecking a
wooden fence and blowing up portions of the ground. It finished its career 60 yards
from where it first fell. The report was heard all over the village, and many
windows were blown out by the explosion.

1899
Some small boys playing in a field adjoining Victoria Wine, Cambridge, discovered
the mangel wurzel cutting machine. A five year old boy named Sydney Baron put his
hand in the machine, and another youngster at that moment turned the handle, with
the result that one of the lads fingers was crushed, and had to be amputated

FRIDAY 7th May

1974

300 young people mobbed BBC disc jockey “Diddy” David Hamilton as he tried to punt
down the Cam and forced him to abandon a live radio broadcast. As he crouched under
a plastic mack in a Trinity college punt trying to conduct interviews and introduce
records to several million Radio 1 listeners the crowd squirted gallons of water at
him and threw pepper. Mr Hamilton, who had been keeping up a radio microphone link
with an outside broadcast van at Garret Hostel bridge was rescued after a chaotic
half-hour during which several people including a representative of the city’s
entertainment department, tumbled into the river.

1949

J. D. Dewes and G.H.G. Doggart, the Cambridge pair who on Saturday scored 429
without being separated against Essex at Fenners, needed only 27 more runs to beat
the world record for a second wicket partnership. They received no opportunity of
attempting the task because the Cambridge captain declared. A crowd of about 1,000
turned up at the ground hoping to see the record broken and everyone was
disappointed about the declaration. So they have had to remain satisfied with a new
English record.

1924

With regard to the desirability of a bridge being built over the Cam at Dimock’s
Cote, Councillor Taylor said not one half of the members of the council knew where
Dimock’s Cote was. If a bridge was built it would lead from nowhere to nowhere, and
would benefit no one except those who went from the North to the Newmarket races.
Alderman McArthur the bridge would provide a main road from the Midlands to the
East coast. A considerable amount of money had been spent on building the road up
to the river, but the War Office did not want the bridge built during the war

1899

Village feasts have sadly degenerated of recent years, and that of Milton is a
striking example. Years ago merry-go-rounds, shooting galleries, and coconut shies
were erected, but this year there are only a couple of stalls, on which cheap toys
and indigestible looking sweets are exposed for sale. In the licensed houses
musicians play interminable polkas, which are danced more or less gracefully by
country maidens and their swains. The feast is of three days’ duration

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 10 May

1974

The placing of the garden House Hotel into the hands of a receiver-manager
illustrates all to clearly the fine line between success or failure in business
plans. At one moment the £2 million scheme was all go, and even at an interest rate
of 10½ %, would have been viable for the family business. But then, almost
overnight, rocketing interest rates killed off all hopes of doing anything other
than paying a loan. Even though the hotel is making a profit on a day-to-day basis
they could not contemplate it. To pay off a bank overdraft accrued since the fire
that gutted the original buildings two years ago, they had to expand and create a
higher turnover.

1949

Speaking in parliament Mr A.E. Stubbs referred to an estate of around 3,000 acres

outside Newmarket which was occupied during the war for military purposes. When the
war was over it was occupied by prisoners, by Poles and others, but when the
occupants had gone the military authorities took no trouble to see the camp was
cleaned up. Rats spread all over the adjacent land. There were six stacks of wheat
and barley which were destroyed. There were at least 600 rats in each stack

1924
At the opening of the Sir William Dunn Institute of the Cambridge University School
of Biochemistry Sir Jeremiah Coleman said they had heard a great deal lately about
the horrors of cancer and the necessity for co-operative effort throughout the
world to deal with that great curse. He believed that the causes of that scourge
would be discovered by a student who had not been thinking especially of cancer.
Why should it not be done in the building in which they were assembled that day?

1899

A most reprehensible trick was played on the Cambridge fire brigade. With a very
perverted idea of a joke some individual broke the glass of the Great Eastern
Street fire alarm and 12 members of the brigade, taking with them a hose cart, two
reels and the escape, made for the street with all speed, only to find themselves
the victims of a hoax. Hundreds of people swarmed to the locality which was lively
with inquiries for the supposed outbreak

TUESDAY 11th May

1974

Water seeping through the banks of the Reach, Burwell, Swaffham Bulbeck and
Bottisham lodes presented the Great Ouse local land drainage committee with a cash
dilemma: spending a smaller amount of money but partly closing the system to
navigation or spending a lot more to allow boating to continue. The engineer said
there was a straight choice. This involved demolishing all or part of the high-
level lode systems so creating a new low-level system of drains, or retaining the
high-level systems and controlling the seepage that occurs. “Once you close a
system of waterways to navigation you will never get it open again”, he said.

1949

A director of the firm of Findlater, Mackie and Todd, brewers, applied to turn the
premises known as the Festival Grill, King’s Parade, Cambridge, into fully licensed
premises with meals provided. In April 1946 he had acquired the business of the
Hope Inn, Bene’t street, the ground floor of which was used as an ordinary bar,
whilst the first floor was converted into two wine parlours. These had become very
popular but attracted a totally different type of clientele from the ground floor
bar.

1924
Coming! Bronco Bill’s wild west exhibition and mammoth circus. Broncho Bill’s world
famous elephants. Broncho Bill’s new group of performing prairie horses and 20
other big acts. Monday next, Midsummer Common, Cambridge. The great show will also
visit Royston and Huntingdon - Advert

1899

A traction engine has an irresistible attraction for children, who go as near as

they dare to inspect the mechanism by which it is driven. Some children were
playing on the Cherry Hinton road when an engine, drum, and elevator passed by. One
of them, Emily Jaggard, nine years of age, ventured too near and was knocked down
by the elevator, the wheel of which passed over her foot. The girl was at once
conveyed to hospital where it was found that the left ankle was fractured and the
right ankle severely bruised

WEDNESDAY 12th May

1974
Stansted airport action group were guarded today about reports that it may become
London’s third airport after all. This is certain to rekindle the fires of a few
years ago when pressure from local residents quashed a Government plan to develop
it. A committee member said: “We feel that the airport’s existing facilities area
adequate to handle two million passengers a year”
1949

The presentation of a motor car by the Ministry of Pensions to Mr P.E.B. Hall of St

Catharine’s college was the first of what is hoped will become 1,500 similar gifts
in Britain during the next two years to men who during the war lost total use of
their legs. The cars have been specially adapted to be driven entirely by hand,
with the servo-operated gears, clutch, throttle and brakes all within easy reach of
either right or left hand. These are in addition to the usual foot levers. The
Ministry provides the licence, registration and insurance and also grants a
maintenance sum of £45 per year.

1924

An aeroplane came to grief while alighting in a field on Barton Road, Cambridge,

and the pilot and two passengers had a narrow escape from serious injuries. The
plane was attached to Edward’s Flying Service, which provides flights from a field
off Barton road. It appears that the pilot was about to land and was manoeuvring
for a position suitable to the direction of the strong wind when the engine
stopped, and he was forced to land. The aeroplane crashed into a hedge and turned
completely over, its back being broken.

1899

Messrs Bailey, Grundy and Barrett, electrical engineers were summoned by the
Cambridge Electric Supply Company for connecting a wire in a house in Bridge Street
house without their consent. The Supply Company had laid mains to Mr Nichol’s house
with a meter, and a wire leading from the meter to light the house. The wires were
placed there in 1893 and were temporarily reconstructed last year. Subsequently
Bailey’s were called in to put in wires for additional lights for the house. The
new wire was connected with the main whereby it was possible for current to be
consumed without being register by the meter

THURSDAY 13th May

1974

An experimental five-day ward at New Addenbrooke’s hospital, Cambridge, has opened.

Five patients requiring minor surgery were admitted, and barring any unlikely
complications, they will be back home by Friday. The ward is an attempt at cutting
the hospital’s long waiting list and at the same time offering a five-day week for
nurses. On Friday night, they pack up for the weekend and the patients go home. The
free weekends, it is hoped, will be more attractive to staff, and it is staff the
hospital is very short of.

1949
“There are many cases where young fellows seems to have no moral sense whatever. I
always through the proper thing was to bring up children to respect other people’s
property and to realise the law must be obeyed. Nowadays they seem to thing that
they can break into people’s houses, put them in terror, rob them of their things
and then say ‘I am very sorry. This is merely an escapade’. I am not at all sure
the right source is not to send them right away at the start for a long period.
Thus other people might realise these are not pranks but serious and moral
offences”, said the Recorder of Cambridge when two youths pleaded guilty to
burglary, having stolen a quantity of chocolate, a wallet and £5.17s.6d in money
1924

Broncho Bill’s circus is always a great attraction and huge crowds attended the
performances at Cambridge. The programme was divided into two parts, the first half
consisting of typical circus “stunts” and the second an exhibition of the wild and
woolly West. The Wild West portion of the programme consists of lassooing and rope
spinning, trick rifle shooting, whip stock cracking and rough riding, the whole
concluding with an attack on the stage coach by Red Indians.

1899

On Saturday the opening game of the Haverhill first eleven was advertised to be
played on the Meadows, Trinity Knockabout being the visitors, but unfortunately
they cancelled the fixture during the week. Last year the Knockabouts only turned
up with two men. A game, however, was arranged between 12 out of the factory and 14
Townsmen`

FRIDAY 14th May

1974

Taxi fares are to go up in Cambridge by 24% if the city council agree. The new rate
for the first three-quarters of a mile of any journey will be 26p. The present rate
is 18p. Subsequent rates will remain at 3p per quarter-mile.

1949
“There might well be two parents in the dock as well”, said Mr D.C. Bain,
defending a painter of no fixed abode on a charge of store-breaking and theft. A
close look at his record revealed he had had a very bad start. It began when his
father prosecuted him for stealing his overcoat and, since then, neither parent had
made a slightest attempt to discipline him or keep him under control. He was
homeless, friendless and had not the slightest conception of the ordinary life led
by a man of 28

1924
Swavesey war memorial hall was formally opened. It was a day that will long be
remembered, for not only does the new hall provide a lasting reminder of those who
gave their lives for the country, but it will do a lot to make those who came back
much happier. Swavesey was sadly in need of a place where social and educational
functions could be held with the maximum of comfort, and here this pressing need is
splendidly fulfilled. A large ground floor room is capable of seating about 400
people, while there is an extensive balcony, which is fitted up as a billiards
room.

1899
At Newmarket council the peripatetic pianist was severely criticised. It would
appear that not content with making the streets melodious by day, these artistes
carry their benevolence so far as to serenade the inhabitants by evolving sweet
sounds after Newmarket has gone to bed. But their efforts are not appreciated.
Children had several times been awakened by the strains, and although the average
child is ready enough to take delight in the street organ by day, it is the
exceptional child that relishes the intrusion of music upon their dreams.
LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 17th May

1974

Huntingdon swimming club’s dream of an international standard pool in the town was
sunk last night by Huntingdon district council. Club members listened to a debate
on the council’s capital expenditure programme for leisure schemes hoping to hear
favourable comment on a £280,000 plan for an indoor pool alongside the existing
Bushey Close swimming baths. But they heard councillors agree to put only £5,000
into the programme and to meet Cambridgeshire county council officers to discuss
the idea of a dual-dash use pool which would not be built to international
competition standards

1949

Cycling history was made when the Cambridgeshire Road Club promoted its first open
time trial on roads west of Cambridge. It is believed that this is the first open
road event ever to be organised by a Cambridge cycling club, and the experiment
proved to be an unqualified success. An entry of 183 was received from clubs but
only 120 could be accepted. The Cambridgeshire Road Club team of B. Curtis, F.
Krebs and V. Avis came second in the team race

1924
A Belgian balloonist came down at Ely in a pond ten feet deep. He was taking part
in a big race from Brussels for a £2,000 prize. He crossed the Channel during the
night and had a very rough journey. His balloon is said to be the smallest in
existence and the pilot had to stand all the time he was in the air. It came down
at Norney farm and was pulled out by Mr Herbert Cross, an Ely farmer.

1899
In the common run of life, no class of men is trusted more than railway engine
drivers. It has often been found that the safety of hundreds of lives has been the
result of the heroism of the driver of a train. One of those who spent such a life
is Mr James Cook, now the landlord of the “Post Boy”, Bridge Street, Hitchin, who
is 46 years of age and who had been a driver on the Great Northern Railway for over
23 years. He told a reporter: “I never intended giving up the work until I became
ill with indigestion. Then I was persuaded to try Dr Williams pink pills for pale
people. If I had known about them before I should never have given up railway work”

TUESDAY 18th May

1974

Homing, the sport that for many still conjures up a misty picture of bleak northern
hillsides, cloth caps and mufflers, in thriving in Cambridgeshire. Where there were
only three clubs after the second world war there are now 14, the newest of which,
Cambridge Granta, was formed four years ago. In the Cambridge area alone there are
about 450 fanciers with a total of 25,000 birds.

1949

The audience remained in their seats and the play continued when fire broke out in
the men’s cloakroom at the A.D.C. theatre during a performance by the Cambridge
Training College for Women Drama Group. The blaze was caused by a smouldering pipe
left in the pocket of one of the coats in the cloakroom. At the height of the
blaze, the auditorium became hazy with smoke as it drifted in through the
ventilators. The audience, composed largely of university members did not panic and
cheers greeted an announcement that the fire was under control.

1924
A number of parents from Swaffham Prior and Reach were brought before the
Bottisham police court for not sending their children to Burwell school. In order
to provide children over eleven years of age with a superior education it was found
advisable to reorganise the schools in that area. The county education committee
has provided a motor omnibus to convey the children to Burwell. Far from overcoming
the objections of the parents this bus seems one of the chief sources of objection.
Other parents object on the score of extra expense for packing up their children's
dinners

1899
Sir. I learn that St Ives town council has resolved to commemorate Cromwell with a
statue worthy of him and the town. My object is to refer to the disloyalty and
meanness manifested to our good Queen in 1897 on the occasion of her Diamond
Jubilee when it was urged that some fitting memorial should be erected in the town
to perpetuate her reign. But it was not to be, there was money, but no loyalty.
There are two opinions of Cromwell, but there can be no two opinions of our most
gracious Majesty, Queen Victoria – Elliott Odams

WEDNESDAY 19th May

1974

Residents of the north Arbury estate did not need a heat wave to remind them of
their need for another pub and the opening of The Ship will meet with eager
response. Campaigners for real ale will be pleased to find that Wells of Bedford
are making this their fourth Cambridge pub, providing beer connoisseurs with their
prize-winning bitter as well as a wide range of other beers, wines and spirits in
spacious new premises

1949

The Humber Hawk, newest car to come off the production line, is one of a group of
cars and lorries displayed at Messrs Herbert Robinson’s garage, Regent Street,
Cambridge in their first show since the war ended. Other types include the Humber
Pullman Super Snipe, Sunbeam-Talbot 90 and Hillman Minx. If you care to put your
name on the end of about 600 other people you might get your new car in a few years
time! Meanwhile, until new cars become more plentiful we must be satisfied just
with looking at them through such shows

1924
Since the beginning of this month there has been on sale Cambridgeshire Cheddar
cheese, made at the Cambridge milk and cheese factory situated in Newmarket Road.
This is the outcome of the co-operative cheese making school run by the County
Council in conjunction with the National Farmers Union. This new venture looks like
providing a successful commercial proposition and forms a convenient means of
disposing of the surplus milk produced in the district.

1899
The new clergy training school in Jesus Lane Cambridge was opened by the Bishop of
Durham. It has been erected adjacent to All Saints Church at a cost of nearly
£8000. The most experienced teachers in Cambridge have long felt a want of a centre
to which the younger members might naturally turn when they wished for conference,
or counsel, or sympathy in reference to the choice of their vocation in life. Many
men of ability were lost to the Ministry of the church through the want of such
opportunities for brotherly conference with men nearly of their own age.

THURSDAY 20th May

1974

Arch-goon Spike Milligan hosted a reception at the University Arms Hotel with
folksinger Jeremy Taylor to mark the release of a double album, “An adult
entertainment : Spike Milligan live at Cambridge University”, recorded in concert
at the Lady Mitchell Hall last year before an invited audience. Spike made a
military entrance dressed in a blue-denim jacket – buttoned up wrongly – and a
flowery shirt and inspected the guests who lined up in military ranks. He had spent
the day in Cambridge being filmed by a BBC crew. In the afternoon he visited the
market and briefly served behind the counter of Mr Andy Gray’s record stall

1949

Among the few air-raids Cambridge suffered was the one a night in August 1941 which
besides damaging a number of houses in Romsey town, completely demolished an old
building which was used as a primary Sunday school by Mill Road Baptists. A
handsome hall is now being built and is expected to be opened in the autumn.

1924
Great interest was taken in the opening of the new swimming bath at Littleport. The
club which dates from the Coronation of King Edward perhaps did not cater for
everybody, but it had done something to provide a place where the boys and girls
could learn to swim. At one time it was very uncommon to see people swimming in the
rivers, but now it was a very common thing. The club had provided a magnificent
baths for public use and organised the annual water sports which were always
eagerly looked forward to.

1899
An accident having a fatal termination occurred on Midsummer Common Cambridge.
During the day there had been an open-air fete, the amusement consisting chiefly of
a steam roundabout, swings and the like. The bulk of the paraphernalia was the
property of Messrs Thurston. Business ceased about eleven o'clock and in
preparation for an early departure the work of packing was commenced immediately.
The steam circus was in course of demolition when a covered van capsized and the
unfortunate man was thrown to the ground.

FRIDAY 21st May

1974

One of Swaffham Prior’s last two remaining pubs is to close. The Allix Arms, a
small pub has been run by one well-known village family for 44 years. Mr Arthur
Bye, the present licensee, was handed his notice from Tollemache Cobbold breweries.
The pub occupies two rooms of the house where he lives. He uses the pub yard for
his coal business. “I am the last tradesman left here. This village is becoming a
dying duck, but if I can’t find another yard, my coal business will have to close
too”, he said

1949

A conference of the Council for the Preservation of Rural England was told that the
1947 Agricultural Act would change the appearance of the countryside. It was going
to result in a very large amount of corrugated iron and corrugated asbestos and the
disappearance of a good deal of thatch, because thatch cost a good deal to repair.
With petrol more easily available, more people would want to live in the
countryside. “I believe it is important to encourage them because it will make
cultural life in the villages more varied and richer”, said Mr Pease, vice
chairman.

1924
An unusual accident occurred at Trumpington when a student of St John's College
was returning from London in De Dion Bouton two seater car. On coming round the
bend on the main road the car ran into a house with devastating results. Bricks
were scattered right across the road and a gaping hole in the wall was so big that
it is surprising that the whole front of the house did not collapse. Fortunately no
one was in the house and the front room was empty of furniture as the tenant had
packed preparatory to leaving.

1899
The Fore Hill, Ely, was the scene of a mishap. A brake crowded with Sutton people
was proceeding up the hill, with only one horse attached to it. All went well till
Mr Cross' shop when the animal’s strength proved unequal to the strain and the
vehicle ran backwards. People saw the serious position of the holiday makers, but
the vehicle fortunately turned safely across the hill, though the wheels came
sharply in contact with the curb. One or two of the occupants jumped out without
injuring themselves

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 24th May

1974

British rail passenger fares will go up by an average of 12% from June. Cambridge
commuters to London will pay £1.79 instead of £1.60 for a second-class day return,
while the ordinary return fare goes up from £2.55 to £2.87. Other increases
affecting local travellers are : Huntingdon-London day return up to £1.79; Ely to
London day return now £2.36 while a second-class single from Cambridge to Ipswich
goes up 10p to 85p

1949

Cambridge town football club’s 1948-49 season achieved even better results than its
record predecessor. In all the club won no fewer than seven trophies. It is not
surprising that another exceptional season saw the “gate” figures soar to greater
heights and no fewer than 125,000 fans filled the stand or lined the terraces. The
biggest disappointment was the club’s failure to gain admittance to the Isthmian
league. Of the veteran players George Dean, surely the most virile secretary-player
in the game, had an outstanding season on the field.

1924
At Cambridge council Alderman Starr said a number of buildings in Hobson Street
were coming down. It would make it a 40 feet road and they believed it would
eventually become a very important thoroughfare. Unfortunately they were up against
a very difficult problem at the Sidney Street end because they had a bank on one
side and a college on the other. But this was really a safety point because
converging traffic would have a slight obstacle to pull them up

1899
Today, Queen Victoria attains her 80th birthday, and British subjects in all parts
of her Majesty's dominions are celebrating the occasion. Cambridge has not
attempted anything in the nature of a public demonstration. This was not to be
expected, but Cambridge is none the less loyal on that account, and there are in
almost all parts of the town, outward and visible signs of rejoicing. Numerous
Union Jacks and other national emblems are displayed in the principal
thoroughfares, and the church bells have all been rung in honour of the event. At
the Roman Catholic Church the national anthem was chimed between 12 and 1 o'clock,
and the ringing of the bells may be expected to continue at intervals throughout
the day

TUESDAY 25th May

1974

The former Lyons Restaurant in Petty Cury, Cambridge, is to be reopened in the

autumn as a dress shop. Dorothy Perkins Ltd have been trying to get into Cambridge
for some years. The restaurant which opened 42 years ago as a tea shop was closed
because of reorganisation. At first the city council planned to investigate
reopening it as a Civic restaurant. But their hopes were dashed when Lyons
announced they had already sold the premises to a private buyer

1949

When the custom of having a luncheon after the proclamation of Reach fair was
revived on Monday, Counc G. Edwards recalled that 25 years ago the Mayor was a
brewer and an additional ceremony he performed was the opening of a new village
pump. This led him to remark that he did not quite understand why a brewer should
be asked to open a pump; he could have understood it if a dairyman had been asked
to perform the ceremony!

1924
At Reach fair, in accordance with custom, the mayor and members of the corporation
forsook their dignity and became boys (and one girl) again. Following the official
proclamation the mayor (H.B. Bailey) performed the opening ceremony of the new
village pump. His worship pumped the first jug of water and quaffed off, or rather
sipped suspiciously the first glass of it. Following luncheon the mayor repaired to
the field and commenced an onslaught on the coconuts. First blood in this respect
was drawn by the Chief Constable but the Borough Coroner contrived to “wangle”
three with one throw. The more sedate members of the corporation contented
themselves with the roundabouts

1899
A very popular engagement has been made at the Cambridge Theatre, where Mr D’Oyley
Carte’s well known opera company will produce the latest Savoy success, “The Lucky
Star”. The company travel with the whole of the scenery, properties, and effects as
used the Savoy theatre. On Saturday there will be a revival of the ever popular
Japanese opera, “The Mikado”. The cast will include C.R. Walenn, F. Pattrick, H. Le
Maistre, Miss Louie Rene and Miss Alice Pennington while Mr Silver will again be in
charge of the orchestra

WEDNESDAY 26th May

1974

With head down, feet in the air, a gentle bounce on his head and a good smack on
his bottom, 12 year old Barry Watson was the first to suffer the bouncing ceremony
in Cottenham. Altogether about 75 villager set off to take part in beating the
bounds of the parish – a tradition dating back to medieval times. They intend to
walk all of the 20 miles in a day long tramp around the boundary. At four places
boys were bounced according to a custom originally intended to make sure they never
forgot the siting of the parish boundaries.

1949

Cambridge was the scene of a “ceremony of the keys” about midnight on May 12th
when the borough pindar, Mr Bill Clee, went round a number of Cambridge commons
unlocking the gates so that in accordance with rights dating back hundreds of years
those who wished could have access to the commons to graze their stock. Travelling
on an auto-cycle he unlocked no fewer than 17 gates on his journey. I gather there
were no queues of stock waiting to sample the fresh green grass. There is a wild
west touch about the animals on the commons now, for each one is branded to
indicate that the owner has paid the required fee.

1924
On Tuesday night West Cambridgeshire was visited with a thunderstorm considered to
have been the worst since 1913. Rainfall was exceptionally heavy, indeed in many
places nothing equalling it has been experienced within living memory. At Gamlingay
crops in the fields suffered severely, potatoes being washed out of the soil in
many places and much land was still under water next morning. In places the potato
ridges were completely washed away, and great gulleys many yards wide and several
feet deep were scoured out, and many tons of earth washed away. Near Potton the
main road was encumbered with great banks of soil washed down from the fields above
and great gaps were cut in the bank by the roadside, down which the water and mud
poured on to the road like a cataract

1899
A great amount of excitement was caused by an accident in Downing Street,
Cambridge. A man in the employ of Messrs Swann Bros was proceeding in charge of a
horse and cart laden with bricks, when without the slightest warning the poor
animal, apparently seized with the megrims, the result of the excessive heat,
suddenly swerved and fell with a tremendous crash into the shop window of Mr H.
Storey’s cycle shop, completely demolishing the plate glass window, and breaking up
a tandem bicycle that was leaning against it. Mr Banham, the veterinary surgeon,
with several of his men from the forge were immediately on the scene and rendered
valuable assistance

THURS 27th May

1974

The vicar of St Ives defended gambling after children had been placing dice for
bibles in his church. Canon Ronald Jennings said the 300-year-old ceremony was one
of the town’s traditions. It takes place each year because in 1675 a town doctor
left a legacy to pay for bibles to be diced for by children in the parish. The
youngest was 7-year-old Claire Coleman and the top scorer was 10-year-old Rachel
Anderson.

1949

A “Happy Homes” exhibition was opened at the Co-operative hall, Burleigh street.
Several of the exhibits are of goods which are being made again for the first time
since the war. One, a welcome sight, is the man’s fitted wardrobe, with shelves for
his underwear, ties and hats, and sliding rods and rails for suits and footwear..
One exhibit which drew the women, was a cream and green electrically-driven washing
machine, with automatic wringer, which does the family wash in an hour and a half,
at a cost of about 1d in electricity a week.

1899
The custodian of the Mill Road cemetery, Cambridge, Thomas Stanbridge, said he saw
the defendants approaching with a handcart containing a headstone. There was a
funeral taking place against the entrance gate so endeavoured to prevent them from
entering the cemetery. In so doing he was pushed right under one of the coaches
attending the funeral and got his leg fixed between the wheel and a headstone. He
called out and the people at the funeral were disturbed by his remarks. Then the
defendant stuck him under the chin, and threatened to pull his beard out.

FRIDAY 28th May

Cambridge city council have been advised to buy privately-owned houses to cut down
their waiting list, and in most cases pay a maximum price of £11,500. But the move
angered the leader of the council’s opposition conservative group who condemned it
as “Nothing more than a Labour Government attempt to nationalise housing”. The new
government had given local councils powers to buy houses to increase their housing
pool. But Counc. Terry Sweeney said the shortage of mortgages and high interest
rates were the reasons so many houses remained unsold. The council would be doing a
public service by buying and letting them, he said.

1949

At the rate of two a minute some 370 men employed by the Cambridge Instrument
Company voluntarily underwent a free examination making possible the early
discovery and treatment of any trouble in their chests. Facilities for such a high-
speed search are the result of the war-time development of mass radiography, which
enables X-ray photographs to be taken without fuss. Already some 4,000 men and 600
women have taken advantage of the opportunity. Women attend for X-ray separately
from men, and are each provided with a freshly-laundered chest cover.

1924
Sir - it is only quite recently some considerable amount of public money was spent
for labour and material on Milton Road, Cambridge, and today the passage of a
traction engine or heavy vehicle of some kind has simply torn the road up, and the
expenditure is to all intents and purposes rendered useless. Surely the authorities
whose duty it is to control the highways should take some drastic steps to stop
this sort of thing happening – A.H.Reed, Cambridge

1899
Out of the recent split in the ranks of the Cambridge Y.M.C.A. a new rowing club
has sprung and already it has a promised membership of 30. The authorities had
adopted a policy over smoking and it was plain to them that the Boat Club would
fail unless something was done to keep the members together. Mr Digby referred to
the recent controversy on smoking. He was a father of five boys and if they did
nothing worse than smoke when they had arrived at the age of men, he should be
perfectly satisfied

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 31st May

1974

An alleged ghost, affectionately known as Fred, in a 17th-century building in St

Neots town centre, is the subject of an intensive investigation by the Society for
Psychical Research. The alleged apparition, said to be that of a man dressed in a
three-cornered hat and wearing a cloak, has been reported twice in five years in
the building. The owner of Carousel Restaurant called in experts because she wants
the matter cleared up. “My cook saw him. I’m not scared but I wouldn’t like to see
him suddenly”, she said

1949

Two local G.I. brides arrived in Cambridge recently on a three-months visit. They
are Mrs Violet Mitchell, of Buffalo, N.Y. (daughter of Mrs Ives of Harston) & Mrs
Irene Mateer of West Coxsackle, N.Y., daughter of Mr & Mrs Lupson, Hills road,
Cambridge. One impression gained in the short time they have been here is the high
prices of children’s’ clothes. Another was the shocked reaction of the assistant
when they asked for a piece of ham in a local store.

1924
Judging from the attendance at the second of the dances held on Christ’s Pieces
this departure has evidently caught on with the townsfolk, who attended in large
numbers, both as dancers and spectators. There was, in addition, a fair sprinkling
of undergraduates. With such good music as is provided, and with the dances carried
through in such an efficient manner, they are bound to provide a welcome addition
to the entertainments of the town and materially continue to a “Brighter Cambridge”

1899
A Gentleman seeks to erect an obelisk over his wife's grave in Coveney churchyard,
with the inscription, “Peace, perfect peace”. The Rector objects to the obelisk
because it is pagan, and to the inscription because it is not taken from the Holy
Bible. He is within his legal rights. Many a beautiful cemetery is defaced by the
monstrosities of the tombstone maker, and many inscriptions are inane, silly, and
even actively irreverent.

TUESDAY 1st June

1974

Important research experiments were destroyed when fire badly damaged a wing of the
University Department of Biochemistry on the Downing site. Four floors of the
building, which was opened in 1963 and is the workplace of about 40 people, were
damaged. Expensive equipment and research papers were badly affected on the second
floor where research work into proteins is carried out. The top floor, home of the
chemical microbiology research centre, was also affected.

1949

Walter Stockbridge told Cambridge rotary club of his experiences as an Antique

Dealer. His first purchase of antique furniture was at Barrington, where he came
across a very fine oak coffer, white with pig food, because that was what it was
being used to hold. “The coffer had no lid and I managed to buy it for 5s. In
triumph I bore it home and fitted a top to it. My father eventually sold it for
£4.10s. Judge then my surprise when in London in 1919 I saw my coffer, still with
its new lid, occupying a place of honour in the Victoria and Albert Museum”

1924
An Italian organ grinder was charged with assaulting Herbert Ager, organ grinder at
St Ives. He pleaded guilty. Ager said he travelled the country with a young man
from Hammersmith who had lost both arms. They had an organ. He was in Crown Street
tuning his organ and while he was so doing defendant came up and hit him. Defendant
said he hit the fellow because he had been playing in the town on Monday and then
began again on Tuesday. He could not get any money when the other one was playing

1899
Poor Florrie R-- died at Linton last January. On a cold winter day this child of
eleven, while suffering from scarlet fever, was by her own mother taken out of the
house and dragged to the station in order that she might be sent by train to her
grand mother. When the child got to the station she collapsed utterly. Her
temperature was 105 degrees. That evening she died. The mother was convicted of
wilfully exposing the child to the injury of its health and sentenced to two months
imprisonment. Had an animal been treated as Florrie was, people would have cried
“shame”

WEDNESDAY 2nd June

1974

The King Edward potato, shortly to be banned from British gardens and allotments,
took pride of place in a ceremonial potato-planting organised by the Anti Dear Food
Campaign. The planting took place in the gardens of the campaign’s chairman, Mr
Oliver Smedley in Wendens Ambo. It aims to draw attention to the group’s efforts to
change the Government order which will make it illegal to plant King Edwards in
gardens after July 1st. The potato, the most popular variety in Britain, is one of
a number which are prone to wart disease. The Wart Disease of Potatoes Order
specifies that only those immune to the disease can be planted in gardens and
allotments.

1949

The Secretary of State for War, Mr Shinwell, states that there are 43 huts on the
camp site at Donkey common, Cambridge. They were originally intended to accommodate
three officers and 224 other ranks. There is now one Women’s Royal Army Corps unit
and a small detachment of Pioneers, comprising three officers and 76 other ranks in
all.

1924
In the list of King's birthday honours Mr Fred Hiam, the well known agriculturist,
receives a knighthood. During the war his expert knowledge made him a fitting
person to hold the post of Director of Vegetable Supplies and in 1918 he dealt
entirely with the whole of the potato crop of Great Britain. That crop as so
plentiful that some could be spared for other countries. Sir Frederick was born at
Upwell, and when he was two years of age his father removed to Mepal. He then went
to London to sell potatoes there and in a few years grew more than he could sell.
He now owns 8,000 acres of land in the Isle of Ely

1899
Last Sunday morning about 2,000 persons assembled at the ferry, Isleham, when
eleven females and four males were baptised in the river Lark by the pastors of the
Baptist chapels in the village. Reverend Newling remarked that they assembled upon
the spot where the Rev C.H. Surgeon was baptised on May 3rd 1850
THURSDAY 3rd June

1974

The drug pushing problem in Cambridge was stopped overnight when four youths
received prison sentences for drugs thefts. They were the heaviest ever imposed in
the area & had been imposed for stealing drugs worth than £2,000 on black market
from a Sawston chemist’s shop. “All burglaries of chemists’ shops have so far been
detected by the Drugs Squad and in many cases the property has been recovered”,
said Chief Constable F. Drayton Porter

1949

The story of the swans at Milton gravel pits is a tragic one. It begins in the
spring, when a pair of mute swans built a nest, which was robbed in April. A second
clutch of eggs was laid but the sitting pen (hen bird) was stoned to death. The cob
took over the incubation and sat for three weeks within six feet of the decaying
corpse of his mate. Finally, last week, the lone bird was driven from the nest, and
the eggs were smashed, although they must have been nearly hatching. Bird life at
the pits and on the adjacent sewage farm is protected.

1924
At Cambridge police court the Town Clerk applied for an order for a mentally
defective girl to be sent to a certified school at Colchester. If she remained at
home she might deteriorate and the parents could not give the special protection
she needed. The parents declined their consent, saying that two children had
already been sent and one had died away from home. The mother was much distressed
and did not think the child would go willingly. The bench concluded it was better
for the child to go to the school

1899
Louisa Mustill of Littleport said that when she went to work at the factory at 20
minutes past five in the morning she left a dustpan and brush at the back of the
house. She purchased it some time back for 4½d. When she returned in the evening
she found the dustpan gone. She did not know that Mr Collins, a grocer, gave
dustpans similar to that she lost to people who purchased a pound of tea. P.C.
Lilley sent he went to the prisoner’s house and found the dustpan in the washhouse.
Prisoner said she had bought it in a bazaar for 6½d. The charge was withdrawn

FRIDAY 4th June

1974

The site of the Co-operative laundry in Cambridge, which closed at Easter, is now
up for sale. The company bought the site in Histon road during the last war and
began operations in 1941. At their peak 100 people worked there compared to the 60
at the time of their closure. “The problem was getting staff. It was terrible,”
said the Chief executive. They are keeping open three shops at Histon Road, Arbury
Court and Mill Road

1949

One of the worst accidents that has ever occurred in Cambridge resulted in three
local women being fatally injured when a car driven by the Hon. --- , a Trinity
college undergraduate, collided with them in Trumpington road. The car, a 20 hp
Alvis first mounted the pavement on the stone bridge near Brooklands Ave, where it
knocked over the three women. It then hit a lamp standard and regained the road
with its offside front wheel wrenched off. Finally, it struck a cyclist, whose
machine was dragged along under the car, but who himself escaped serious injuries

1924
A distressing story of a little girl's death in her father's factory at Mepal was
told at an inquest. The father was a contractor and farmer. He had a Lister
electric engine and plant which was used for cooking meat in bad weather. There was
an ice box to it, and they were also able to make electric light for his own
purpose and to grind sausage meat. He saw his daughter go across to the shop. A
little while afterwards he went into the granary and saw his daughter hanging by
her hair.

1899
The fire-bug seems to have turned his attention from the Chippenham district to
the Clare side of Newmarket. On Saturday a fire broke out at Lidgate and on Tuesday
flames were seen to be issuing from an outbuildings on a farm at Kirtling. A
mounted messenger was sent to call the Jockey Club Owners and Trainers Fire Brigade
at Newmarket. The Baptist Chapel almost adjoins the farm buildings, and was at one
time in danger, but was fortunately saved, there being a plentiful supply of water.
Appearances appear to leave little doubt that the fire was the work of an
incendiary

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 7th June

1974

The Isle of Ely Conservatives are arranging for six Liberal voters in the
constituency to undergo intensive psychoanalysis in an attempt to discover why they
lost the seat they had held for 28 years to Mr Clement Freud in the last General
Election. Their agent said the attempt to get to the root of the “Freud on the
Brain” condition was meant to be secret

1949
Cambridge county agricultural show fully lived up to its well-earned reputation of
being one of the best one-day events of its kind in the country. The show covered
45 acres of ground at Trumpington that will form part of the site for the Royal
Show in 1951 and can with truth be described as a “dress rehearsal” for the
country’s premier agricultural event. Banker’s row, smart caravan banking
establishments – emphasised the fact that this was a business occasion. There was
an unusual machinery demonstration where Messrs Sindall, public works contractors,
had several giant bulldozers and excavators working in a pit.

1924
The landlord of the New Inn Swavesey was summoned for riding a cycle without a
light. It was on the night of the village feast and he was seen hanging on to a
motor cycle, with two other cyclists at the time. Defendant explained that he lit
his lamp against the Black Horse. He took hold of his friend’s shoulder, who was on
a motor cycle, and his light went out against the Sun public house owing to a bump
in the surface of the road, where it was being repaired. Fined 5s.

1899
A carter, in the employ of Mr F. Marshall, was loading barrels of tar from the gas
works into a truck at the railway station, Saffron Walden, when one of the barrels
burst, with the result that Marshall was saturated, his face receiving the full
force of the shower of tar, which got into his eyes, causing great agony. He was
conveyed to Dr Wagstaff’s surgery, and after treatment driven to his home at
Linton. Hopes are entertained that his eyes will not be permanently affected.

TUESDAY 8th June

1974

Cambridge Poverty Action Group have agreed to support Gingerbread, the organisation
concerned with the needs of one-parent families, who want the County Council to
help them establish a day centre where children can be cared for while their
parents are at work. Gingerbread’s chairman said he would like to see it open from
7.30 am till 6pm five days a week throughout the year. At least 50 children in
Cambridge needed such a centre.

1949

An 89-year old man from Lt Paxton who made cricket bats for Dr W.G. Grace and
Ranjitsinhji has work on view at the county show. He is still making bats from
willows he grows himself. Another man, Mr C. Ison of Histon, wheelwright and
carpenter, describes himself as “a rough old hand” but can carve bowls and picture
frames with all the fine skill that comes to him through the generations of his
ancestry who have done similar work in Fowlmere, the village of his birth.

1924
Ye good people of Harston enjoyed themselves right merrily in the grounds of
Harston manner when country revels and a pageant were held on behalf of the village
hall building fund. The entertainments are part and parcel of a great endeavour
throughout the whole country to make our village life more attractive, and to add
to the moral welfare of our communities in an age where the attractions of city and
industrial life tend to depopulate our country districts and to lower the standard
of moral as well as physical health.

1899
Sir - I believe that if the Rector of Coveney were to attend more to those hearts
that are broken by reason of bereavement, and a little less to the design of
tombstones and the wording of inscriptions, more peace would be realised by the
sorrowing ones who have to bury their loved ones in his churchyard. One
parishioner has on two occasions had to change the inscriptions that the friends of
the dead would liked to have had on the tombstones of their loved ones. If things
are to go on like this I don't think we can look for “perfect peace” just yet at
Coveney – H. Westcombe.

WEDNESDAY 9th June

1974

A computer device which will enable police to produce statistics in four hours
instead of the present four weeks, is to be installed at Police Headquarters,
Hinchingbrooke. It is a data entry system which will replace the present manual
system used for drawing up quarterly and annual statistics. The information will
then be run through the County Council computer at Shire Hall. Cambridgeshire
Police do have another computer carrying criminal records and names on police
files. This machine will eventually be linked with the national police computer
terminal at Hendon. It has come in for criticism nationally because of “big
brother” fears
1949

Picketing by Jews and Communists outside the Chesterton secondary modern boys’
school resulted in the abandonment of a meeting which was to have been held there
by the British People’s Party. Inside the hall, which had posters, “Britain awake”,
on the walls, there were eight people by the time the meeting was due to start. The
meeting had been well advertised however, 2,000 handbills having been circulated.
The Party believe that bad as the Conservatives certainly are, they would not do so
much damage to the country as an extension of Labour rule.

1924
An eleven year old schoolboy was charged with stealing five boxes of chocolates, a
quantity of sweets and oranges, and a tin of salmon the property of Mrs Susan Bird,
confectioner, High Street, Soham. On Friday night the articles were safe in her
shop window when she locked up at 10 o'clock. The defendant was standing against
the same pane of the window that was afterwards found smashed. The boy said: “I
broke the window with my hand”. He had been sentenced at a previous court to three
strokes with the birch rod. He was sent to an industrial school until he is 16
years of age.

1899
The gaieties of the May Term have today been enhanced by the appearance of the
Australian cricketers. Last night famous Grassy and Ditton Paddock were the scene
of brilliant assemblages of beauty and fashion. Cambridge is full for the Eights
week and looking at her best. The fair sex - a mighty host - seem to be arrayed in
their most killing attire. Almost everybody - who is anybody - seems to have got
his people “up”, and everybody's people appear resolutely determined to enjoy
themselves

THURSDAY 10th June

1974

Dr Frank Stubbings, fellow and Librarian of Emmanuel college, was elected Cambridge
University Orator. he could be the University’s last Latin-speaking orator. The
council of the Senate have said they are thinking about dropping Latin as the
official language of the University. If it is dropped the post of orator, with a
stipend of £612 a year, will be open to any artsman or scientist. At present with
the job of writing lengthy Latin speeches the orator must be a classicist.

1949

Princess Margaret was present at the last night of the Footlights Review. Efforts
had been made to keep the visit as private as possible. The two front rows of seats
at the Arts Theatre remained conspicuously empty in a packed house. All faces
craned towards the entrance as while the overture was playing the Royal party
entered. The audience was on its feet in a second, and there was a spontaneous
burst of clapping and a real cheer. The Princess, a petite girlish figure, looking
serious and rather shy, was dressed with the utmost simplicity in an evening gown
of deep pink tulle. She seemed to thoroughly enjoy the show

1924
At Linton Rural District Council the chairman said the County Council wished to
take over the roads at present controlled and repaired by their council, and
pointed out the County had already taken over the main roads in Linton district,
and were keeping them up at a cost of £165 per mile, whereas Linton council were
maintaining in a good state 100 miles of road at a cost of about £70 per mile. It
was agreed that the present system worked very well and they should resist any
attempt to take over their roads

1899
Chesterton board of guardians considered an offer from the Tramps’ Mission to
provide a library at the union for the tramps to happen to be sojourning there,
also to furnish wall cards bearing matter profitable for Weary Willie’s reading.
The master of the workhouse viewed with very little favour these concessions to the
literary tastes of those who make the Chesterton Union their hotel. In his opinion
there is no matter more suitable for the tramps than the regulations which have
been drawn to guide the conduct of those who resort to the workhouse for shelter.
Give him text on the wall and he will have an excuse for taking his ease while he
reads, or pretends to read them

FRIDAY 11th June

1974

Norman Higgins, a trustee and former managing director of the Cambridge Arts
Theatre died at his home. Eight years ago he retired as general manager of the Arts
cinema which he had started as the Cosmopolitan cinema in 1933. His contribution to
the cultural life of Cambridge since he managed the old Tivoli cinema was immense.
He willingly responded when Lord Keynes invited him to supervise the building of
the new Arts Theatre and was subsequently responsible for more than 200 productions
of opera, ballet, plays, revues and pantomimes

1949

Occupants of the caretaker’s flat had to escape in their night attire when fire
badly damaged the Friends Meeting House in Jesus Lane, Cambridge. The fire caused
some anxiety since it occurred in one of Cambridge’s three danger zones. It appears
to have started in the main hall, where a charred piano and burnt-out settee were
evidence of its intensity. The usefulness of the fire brigade’s recently-introduced
radio equipment was effectively demonstrated for calling reinforcements

1924
We regret to announce the death of Mr James Odell Vinter, one of the ablest and
best known public men in connection with county administration, licensing and
agricultural finance. He founded in 1869 the firm who carry on an extensive
wholesale coal distributing business. He was also the author of the sliding scale
of pay for the County Police, based on the price of bread, much appreciated by
members of the Force

1899
If anybody ventured to predict on Saturday morning that before the end of the day
the Australians would have scored a victory by 10 wickets in the cricket match with
Cambridge University, the prophet would have been voted an arrant fool. They
resumed batting and in three quarters of an hour the team had been disposed of for
436, exactly the same figure as Cambridge in their first innings. They then made
havoc of the University batting. Wickets fell with amazing rapidity. At lunch seven
of the Cambridge wickets had been disposed of for 67 and the innings ended for
122 .The Australians did not take long to make up the required number. In an hour
and a quarter phenomenal hitting had done its work. It was a sensational finish
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 14th June

1974
The City of Ely council have approved in principle a plan to build a riverside
motel in the city. A consortium are planning to put a £¼ M. into the scheme through
a new company called Waterside Developments (Ely) Ltd. The site is alongside the
river Ouse in warehouses and offices occupied by Gazelle Vanguard and formerly used
as a brewery. Councillors were assured there would be no demolition because the
present premises would be completely modernised and converted.

1949

An abrupt change in the weather marked the opening of the Cambridge University May
Balls. As always the weeks premier event – the First and Third Trinity Boat Club
ball – was organised on the grand scale. It is the only one now that is still
purely a rowing function and differs from all others, too, in that it forms part of
the London season. Dancing went on until six this morning in a large marquee on
Brewhouse Lane and there was an open-air floor on the other side of the river. The
gaiety and music attracted the usual sight-seeing parties, and there was a crowd
outside the main gate to see the guests - they numbered about 900 – arriving.

1924
An inquest into the death of a 19 year old Spanish student, killed when his motor
cycle collided with the barrier in Christ's Lane, Cambridge, was told by an
undergraduate that he heard a motor cycle apparently going fairly fast along the
main street, when then turned into Christ’s Lane. He heard a curious noise, as
though the machine was going over some iron. The noise then stopped and he saw a
motor cycle lying on the ground, and a lot of smoke coming out of it. Then he heard
some moaning and, realising there had been an accident, he rang for the police
ambulance.

1899
On Thursday last we published a description of a lad who had been missing from his
Newmarket home. Before 10 o'clock on the following morning a telegram was received
by his parents stating that he had been seen in Cambridge. The mother at once took
train, and on the arrival found the lad safe and well. It appears the boy had
determined to run away from home. He made for Cambridge and, getting a lift on a
brewers dray, arrived at the town. The parents wish to thank the Cambridge Daily
News for publishing the description which has been the means of relieving their
anxiety as to their boy.

TUESDAY 15th June

1974

After 50 years of growing and packing flowers on a farm in Fordham Mr Reginald

Nicholls is retiring. He has worked for Mr Reginald Reader at Halesfield, Fordham,
since he set up as a flower grower in 1924. He is foreman in the packing shed,
where up to 950 boxes of flowers are made up every day for shipment to Manchester,
Glasgow and London. “I can remember when we had 30 people working in the packing
shed, and on August Bank Holiday the fields were blue with scabius as far as you
can see”, he said. Mr Reader said: “You can’t make money growing flowers as you
could. You can’t get the labour. Some of the women who pick with me have been with
us for 20 years”

1949

The May Balls have brought out a crop of new evening dresses. White, ideal for a
summer dance was a favourite colour and diaphanous floating tulle tell to the fore
as a material. I noticed several gaily striped or checked stiff taffetas, and a few
with big flower patters, but plain colours predominated. Tiered skirts – three or
even four of five tiers – are back. One or two of the ladies had fringed, silk
shawls, draped over their shoulders and I noticed one carrying a pink feather fan

1924
Many in Cambridge associated with Poor Law work will regret the death of Mr Luke
Hosegood, who for 37 years was master of the workhouse in Mill Road. He was
appointed schoolmaster in 1870 when there were 150 children at the Workhouse, and
when tuition had to be provided for them there. In April 1883 a serious fire
occurred in the men’s infirmary. His brave conduct and self-possession was the
means of preventing any loss of life. In recognition of his prompt work and
meritorious conduct in rescuing some of the inmates he was presented with a
testimonial

1899
Frederick Lawrence of the Belmont Cycle Works, King St, was summonsed for furiously
driving a motor car in St Andrew’s street, Cambridge. Defendant said he had had a
deal of experience in motor-cars. They were going about 6 miles and hour. They were
using the “Large” lever by which the car was unable to go more than 8 mph. The
magistrate said that when there was considerable traffic in a street 6 mph
constituted furious driving. A fine of £1 was imposed.

WEDNESDAY 16th June

1974

Cambridge rock and roll fans were out in force last night for a concert given by
the Bluebirds Band which was filmed by a television crew. Dressed in their best
sneakers and velvet collared “Ted” jackets, the 200 fans danced the night away to
the tune of Telstar and the Shadows and Buddy Holly numbers. It was the second rock
and roll evening organised by the Roc Club and manager, Mr Charlie Flack, said that
if the club succeeded in buying the old Rex Cinema, top name groups would be
playing there. The film is part of a series “Portraits of Places” which is to be
screened on Independent Television next month.

1949

Watching from an upper window as the May Ball dancers paced backwards and forwards
along the awning-covered pathway to the marquee, I was forcibly struck by the
almost universally bad deportment. There was a conspicuous absence of the erect,
dignified bearing thought so essential in our mothers and grandmothers’ day. Skirts
which needed lifting from the ground were grabbed up in the most ungraceful way,
and held somewhere about mid-calf. Although a number of the dresses were really
beautiful much of their effect was thereby lost. Good deportment is of course an
art. It seems a pity that it is no longer looked upon as a necessary art for a
young girl to master

1924
A shocking and revolting case of carelessness and callousness on the part of a
mother was revealed at Bottisham police court. An NSPCC inspector said he saw two
younger children in a very dirty and neglected state. Their bodies were verminous
and their clothing, which was filthy and ragged, emitted a very offensive smell. He
went on to describe the perambulator in which he saw the baby child and the
shockingly filthy conditions prevailing in the only bedroom in the house. The
mother was sentenced to a month’s imprisonment without hard labour.
1899
The success of a native of India in winning the blue ribbon of Cambridge University
Mathematical Scholarship has been appreciated at its true significance by the
press. It is the first time that a native of our Indian Empire has qualified for
such a distinction. The success of Raghunath P. Paranjype has undoubtedly caused a
sensation among Anglo-Indians in India and in England. It ought to avail somewhat
in breaking down the barrier between the races in India.

THURSDAY 17th June

1974

It is the most interesting job 53 year-old Wally Edwards has done in 37 years of
carpentry. Bird Brothers the builders took it on because nobody else seemed
interested. The success or failure of their work will be plain for all to see. It
stands high and dry on top of a hill near Saffron Walden and just outside the
village of Ashdon. And once Braggs Mill is renovated, Mr Edmunds Vestey hopes it
will provide a focal point for sightseers. The mill was built in 1800 and is one of
the oldest post mills in Essex.

1949

Winners in the Chesterton shopping week competition were presented with their
prizes at the Tivoli cinema. The object was to show the public that all the goods
they need can be obtained in their own area, without wasting time and energy in
buses and in queues; at competitive prices and with good service and personal
attention. Shopkeepers had many difficulties to contend with during the past 10
years including coupons, form filling and shortage of material, and at the present
time, shortage of ready money. There was laughter when men’s names were given as
the winners of a home perm and two pairs of nylons

1924

There was a large meetings of Ely ratepayers when the proposed electricity schemes
were under consideration. It would be possible to use a 30-watt lamp for 22 hours
for a penny. All-electric cooking resulted in an average consumption of 360 units
per head per annum, the cost being approximately £2.5s. for each person. If a
public bath could be erected adjacent to the electricity works, the exhaust heat
from the engine could be very economically utilised and be ample to cover the
utmost requirements of the baths.

1899
Alderman Dr Porter asked why, at this particular time of year, when Cambridge was
so full of visitors, a great mass of filthy and offensive material should be placed
on Queens’ Green. He could not imagine anything more offensive than these
unlevelled heaps of street sweepings and manure, and he knew of nothing more
calculated to give visitors an unfavourable impression of the sanitation of the
town.

FRIDAY 18th June

1974

Reubens’ “Adoration of the Magi”, reckoned to be among the most valuable in the
world was damaged when raiders, who stole money from an offertory box in King’s
college chapel, scored the letters IRA across the lower middle of the painting.
Discovery of the damage was made by a tourist. Earlier it had been missed by both
police and college authorities when they investigated the break-in. The scoring,
with a blunt metallic object had penetrated through the varnish and pigment into
the grounding. “There is every hope we can repair it”, said the Dean, the Rev.
Michael Till

1949

“I am quite sure that we suffer from an over materialistic outlook on life and are
much too frightened to spend money making places more beautiful to live in”. Such
was the opinion expressed by Mr H. Walston of Thriplow at the parish Councils
Association meeting. “I do feel we are in great danger of leaving things more and
more to experts and specialists feeling that the borough surveyor knows much more
about the right place to put a house than we do”.

1924

The inquest took place upon the body of a Soham farmer and publican who was found
hanging dead in a granary. His son saw him the previous day and there seemed
nothing the matter with him, but when he asked if he would come with him to his
work deceased replied he had “water springs” (billiousness). He had been attended
for bronchitis and his one trouble was that he could not walk as far as he used to,
his legs being rather bad. As deceased did not return for dinner that day he
searched for him. The far end of the granary was dark and he was going to strike a
match when a boy opened the door and he saw deceased hanging from a beam.

1899

A swarm of bees was seen flying about Newmarket High-street and shortly afterwards
they alighted on a lamp-post opposite the Congregational Church and followed the
queen down the inside. A local apiarist, Mr C. Carter, tried to get them out by
means of smoking but this had the effect of sending them further down. He then
tried to get them to leave by pouring down water but the queen still remained in
the lamp-post and her loyal followers refused to leave her.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 21st June

1974

Children who have fixed up a suitable career should be able to leave school at 14
rather than spend two wasted years at school, says the Liberal MP for the Isle of
Ely, Mr Clement Freud. He said the amending of the school leaving age was necessary
if education authorities were to have any hope of checking the large increase in
truancy. “The younger ones are now following the example of the 15 year olds and
staying away as well, and in some cases teachers are not coming in because they
cannot face another day trying to teach 15 years olds who are simply fed up with
school”, he said

1949

“If the people will not come into us, we will go out them.” Such seems to be the
view of the Cambridge Young Conservatives who held the first of two open-air summer
meetings on Parker’s Piece. Saturday strollers stopped out of curiosity and stayed
out of interest to hear several young people express their views on the political
situation. Most of the listeners were civilian but servicemen were represented
together with two Americans who seemed to be rather baffled by it all. On the
whole, the crowd was orderly and there were only one or two hecklers. The greatest
opposition was from the appeals for catches or l.b.w. by nearby cricketers

1924
Profound regret will be felt in Cambridge at the news of the tragic fate of Mr
George Leigh Mallory in the Mount Everest Expedition. He won a scholarship at
Magdalene and was very well known in the University as assistant secretary of the
Local Lectures Syndicate.
.

1899

A University term which has been eventful above most is hastening to a close.
Cambridge has been emptying fast & already begun to put on the Long Vacation
aspect. The dons are making ready to betake themselves to Switzerland or to
Scotland. By the end of the week many a house will have its blinds drawn while its
occupants roam far afield. Gowns and trencher will no longer make the streets
picturesque

TUESDAY 22nd June

1974

The £2 ½ million extension to the Cambridge trunk telephone exchange in Long Road
was declared open. It has more than doubled the size of the original building which
was opened in 1965. The ceremony also celebrated the recent completion of STD
facilities. Cambridge is the first area in the Eastern region to have 100% STD
facilities. By 1976 Cambridge people should be able to telephone direct to North
America and most of Europe, covering 65% of the world’s telephones

1949

A few yards from the Cambridge council chamber where the Aldermen and councillors
gather to discuss the affairs of the town their wives met on Monday afternoon. The
formality of official proceedings was replaced by the informality of gay summer
dresses, straw hats and inconsequential chat as the ladies came into their own for
a short space of time. Their talk, perhaps, was not on such weighty subjects as
that of their men folk, as they chatted over a cup of tea, but the function was
enjoyed and appreciated by the ladies. It was the first time such a function had
been held within living memory

1924
A dispute which was caused by a puddle of water resulted in an assault case coming
before Cambridge court. Mrs C- stated that Mrs P- threw some water down in front of
her house in Clement Place, witness asked her to sweep it away, but she refused.
Mrs P- then rushed at her and held her hands while Mrs S- hit her in the face. When
Mrs P- let her hands go defendant struck her with a broom and caused blood to flow.
She objected to the water because she had just scrubbed down the front of her house
and children were paddling in it

1899
Of particular interest was the gathering of Indian undergraduates at the University
Arms Hotel to celebrate the achievement of the first native of India who has won
the Senior Wranglership. The company comprised well nigh 60 persons, most natives
of India and fully 50 Cambridge undergraduates. For a good many years Cambridge has
attracted the flower of the intellectual youth of India.
WEDNESDAY 23rd June

1974

Farmers may face compulsory restrictions in their use of river water this summer
because of the acute water shortage. Rain last winter was again well below average
and the water shortage suffered last year could be expected again. The worst time
was likely to be during the spray-irrigation season when farmers will be taking
large quantities of water from the rivers to water their crops. A special watch
will need to be kept to make sure that sewage treatment is kept to the highest
possible standard as the level in rivers drops.

1949

Sir – I have been employed 14 years at a place of work at the corner of Fen
Causeway (Trumpington Road end), Cambridge. Almost daily there is an accident on
this corner, cyclists, cars and lorries being involved. A few months ago
“improvements” were carried out at this spot. I can tell you the accident rate has
increased daily since these were made. The only way to make this corner safe is to
install traffic lights or have police permanently on point duty – Employee

1924
Some half-score useful horses were offered for sale at Cambridge’s Midsummer Horse
Fair. Included in the vehicles offered for sale was one Ford touring car – this
strikes a progressive note – an attractive living waggon with rubber-tyred wheels,
a pair-horse brake, a dog-cart and a governess cart were also offered, good prices
being obtained for the majority

1899

H.R.H. the Prince of Wales is visiting his old University this evening. His arrival
by the express from St Pancras was witness by a moderately large crowd, which was
not particularly enthusiastic in its reception. The Master of Trinity received him
as he stepped from the train. The Prince raised his hat in acknowledgement and then
looked round expectantly at the line of spectators. No cheer, however, was raised
until he was being driven away in an open carriage.

THURSDAY 24th June

1974

John Wesley, founder of the Methodist church, was famous for riding 50 miles a day
on horseback. But his counterpart in a Haverhill pageant had to walk. The pageant,
part of the town’s Methodist church centenary celebrations, was to have been led by
a parishioner dressed as Wesley and riding a horse. The first horse selected for
the job went lame and another refused to enter a horsebox. So Wesley walked.
Methodist minister Mr George Sharman said: “It rather spoilt our pageant as John
Wesley was famous for his riding. But apart from that the celebrations went off
well”.

1949

Before the Mayor had completed for first ride on the super-speedway, after
Midsummer Fair had been proclaimed, long queues were filing past gay looking stalls
where assistants were doling out half-pounds of rock, nougat and sweets of all
varieties, as fast as they could. This was but one feature of what appeared to be
the biggest and brightest fair people in this district have had the opportunity of
seeing for some time. The first impression was “this is a return to good old
times”. But taking a look at a stall filled with china a reporter heard a purchaser
told “A guinea a cup and saucer, Madam!” There were other stalls offering more
practical but still very attractive crocks which were probably cheaper

1924
The funeral of the late Mr Jabez Gurteen, head of the well-known manufacturing firm
took place at Haverhill and was the occasion of a remarkable display of sympathy
and respect. Flags were flying half-mast at the parish church, the town hall, &
Chauntry Mills (Messrs Gurteen’s factories) and all places of business in the town
were closed during the funeral proceedings.

1899
P.C.Hills said his attention was called to a disturbance in Bull Lane, Ely. The
defendant was raving about a ghost and saying there were about 200 people in the
lane, but witness could see no one in the street beside themselves. There were
several looking out at the windows. Defendant was using obscene language to his
wife who was in the house and witness had to take him into custody. Defendant said:
“The policeman asked me about the ghost and I told him it woke my children up. I
had to sit up in the front of my own house till three o’clock in the morning”

FRIDAY 25th June

1974

The Newmarket millionaire racehorse owner, Mr David Robinson, is to sell Cambridge

city centre property in Sidney Street. The site, which includes Millers Music
Centre, the Arts Cinema and part of the Eaden Lilley store is due to be auctioned
in London. But the future of the Arts cinema, on which the lease does not expire
until 1981, is safe. Any future owner will have to retain its use as a cinema

1949

The fact that two families had to be rehoused owing to the direct harm done
children through being in the proximity of a slaughterhouse was mentioned at the
meeting of the Cambridge National Council of Women. Three children in one family
have been recommended for the Open Air School as they were in a nervous condition,
entirely due to being near a slaughterhouse. They expressed “grave concern” at the
council’s decision to renew the slaughterhouse licence in Fitzroy Street, which was
in a congested residential area & urged the council to provide a municipal abattoir
with the most modern hygienic equipment for the humane slaughter of animals,
situated away from a residential district.

1924
A meeting of Ely ratepayers to consider the proposed scheme of electricity was told
that in some towns the Electricity company made a practice of putting in a light
into a small cottage where it would not be possible for the tenant to pay the
current rate. The light was put in the living room at a standard rate of £1 per
year. It meant that every house had a light and used it because it was cheaper than
oil lamps. The engineer said the rate was 6d per week per 30 watt lamp.

1899
An iron moulder from Burton-on-Trent was charged with playing a game of chance,
called stick and button on Midsummer Common. Detective Marsh said he was calling
out “Penny a time. If you knock the lead off, threepence or a cocoanut”. Prisoner
said it was “a fair game of skill”. After experimenting with the apparatus the
magistrates held that a great amount of skill was necessary for its successful
manipulation, and the prisoner was discharged.
Looking back, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 28th June

1974

A warning that within 10 years the Lion Yard areas of Cambridge, now being
completely redeveloped will become a “twilight zone” is given in a new booklet,
“Walks round vanished Cambridge”, published by Land of Cokaygne. It says: “Within
10 years the town centre will have moved east to the Kite area, the University west
to the science city. Lion Yard will be a twilight zone lost somewhere between the
two”.

1949

After being in use for more than 100 years, the cast iron arches of the railway
bridge over the Ouse half-a-mile south of Huntingdon, are being replaced by a
modern steel structure. The policy is to abolish all cast-iron bridges under
running roads. A greater tensile strength is needed to meet the demands of 450-tons
of express trains hurtling along at great speeds. The arrangements began in March
when the lines across the bridges were closed to traffic. It is hoped the lines
will be open again in October

1924
Cambridge men have become very prominent in the photographic world. Famous are the
remarkable examples of colour photography produced by Mr F.J. Stoakley, and the
fine examples of pictorial photography by D.J. Scott, Palmer Clarke and others, not
forgetting the clever natural history studies by Mr W. Farren. Cambridge is also
noted for its very large numbers of lady photographers.

1899
Midsummer Fair with its unmelodious music, its stertorous roundabouts, shooting
galleries, crockery ware, linoleum, pea soup, fried fish and its brave show of
tinsel is out of keeping with the genius of classic Cambridge. It is a link with
the England of long ago, when there were no steam roundabouts and no
cinematographs. If there are any who would like to do away with it they are in a
miserable minority. Young Cambridge would be up in arms at once if such a proposal
were to be seriously made.

TUESDAY 29th June

1974

Threshold pay increases for teachers have cost the new Cambridgeshire County
Council an extra £1M. more than they bargained for. Now they are faced with the
mammoth problem of finding this extra money which seems certain to end in cuts
being made in the education and other council run services. County Treasurer, Jack
Barton, said the council provided 9% for pay award increases in their budget but
this has not proved enough.

1949

Two American airmen stationed at Lakenheath were involved when the jeep in which
they were driving crashed through the front garden wall of a house on the Mill
Hill, Exning Road, Newmarket. It is believed that the accident was caused by a
failure in the steering system. The jeep was badly damaged. One wheel was knocked
completely off and trundled on its own for many yards down the hill

1924
For the provision of an excellent ground the members of the recently-formed
Haverhill Primitive Methodist Church Tennis Club are indebted to the generosity of
Mr Edward Darking who has kindly placed capital accommodation at the disposal of
the club in Greenfields. At the opening he spoke of the pleasure connected with
such a pure and clean game as tennis. The two double courts were then occupied by
clubs formed by the West End and Old Independent Churches who gave an exhibition
display

1899

There was a special temptation to the members of the Cambridge Wanderer’s Cycling
Club yesterday. It was “photo day”! We went away slowly for were we not mindful of
the fact that a perspiring group would not make the best of photos? Moustaches
shining in all the glory of a recent application of cosmetic had also to be
studied. Our destination was Ditton Plough and when we arrived there was a general
“spruce up”, so anxious were we that such a “galaxy of beauty” should not be lost
to posterity. Mr Lord placed us in position, endeavouring to look pleasant, keeping
our heads on high and remaining perfectly still all at the same time. Three plates
were used. That photo should be a good one.

WEDNESDAY 30th June

1974

Things have changed since Mr Edgar Blincoe went into service at Cambridge
University. “When I first went to the University all the undergraduates came up in
lounge suits and bowler hats. Now you see them going down the street eating fish
and chips”. The discipline has gone. It was for this reason that by the time he
carried out his last duties as a Bulldog (or University policeman) he had seen his
role reduced. 27 years ago, when he began work, undergraduates had to be in by 10,
wear gowns one hour after sunset, and refrain from smoking in academic dress. And
when they were caught they faced a 6s.8d fine for not wearing a gown. For returning
to college an hour late the price was 1d.

1949

A tender of £34,887 was accepted by the County Education Committee for the erection
of the first instalment of a new school at Girton. It will consist of four
classrooms, staff room and dining room. At Litlington a building on the RAF site is
to be adapted as a classroom and offices for 30 children. A recommendation that the
former sergeants’ mess at RAF station Bourn should be hired to provide additional
accommodation for the Bourn parochial school was also agreed

1924

As one of Thurston’s traction engines was nearing Fenstanton the middle of the
three trolleys it was drawing was noticed to be on fire. The flames quickly spread
and the organ of the motor scenic railway, was soon well alight. As no water could
be procured sand from the gravel pits was thrown over the fire but the flames
proved too strong and the whole organ and the trolley upon which it was mounted
completely collapsed. It is suggested the outbreak was due to a spark from the
engine which found its way through the protecting wire gauze on top of the chimney.

1899
At Melbourn three schoolboys were summoned for breaking three panes of glass in the
church window. Quite recently no less than 14 panes had been broken. An 11-year old
stated he saw the lads shoot at the church window with a catapult. Witness was
asked: ‘Did you have a shot’. ‘Yes, sir’. ‘And you missed?’ ‘No, sir. I broke one’.

THURSDAY 1st July

1974

It was 50 years ago that Mrs Ruth Mellanby began to guide people round the colleges
when she was asked by a newly-opened travel agency in Guildhall St, Cambridge to
take two elderly American tourists round. This was the beginning of a life-long and
distinguished career as a guide. In 1950 she wrote her little book, “Cambridge in
brief” as a thumbnail sketch of the colleges. Then 20 years ago she started the
Cambridge Guide Service, training a group of around 20 guides. The Guild of Guide
Lecturers ultimately drove the street touts who at one time operated their own
dubious type of tours, out of business

1949

The planning difficulties in Cambridge of attempting to reach a balance between

medieval beauty and the requirements of the future were mentioned by the County
Planning Officer who told a group from Sweden: “You have come to a very bad town as
far as town planning was concerned. We have arrived at the year 1949 without any
planning worth talking about – and if we can manage the next 1949 years so
successfully, I don’t think we shall do so badly!” He went on to say that town
planning was one of Cambridge’s biggest problems.

1924

It was alleged that because a Milton smallholder did not have a fried egg with his
breakfast of fried bacon, fried onions and milk sop he assaulted his wife, striking
her with his cap, a frying pan, and his hand. The magistrates, after a lengthy
hearing, dismissed the case and gave both parties some excellent advice and warned
them not to appear at Court again.

1899

It is not only in the villages and small towns that domestic servants are scarce.
Girls have lost taste for domestic service. Notwithstanding good wages and
comfortable houses, the life is counted deadly dull as compared with that of a shop
girl or even of the factory employee. The idea has sprung up that the social status
of the shop girl is much higher than that of the parlourmaid. Mistresses can do
much to bring about a better state of matters by treating their servants better.

FRIDAY 2nd July

1974

Police sealed off part of Hills Road, Cambridge, for most of yesterday afternoon
after a 1½ ton container of deadly formic acid toppled from an open-backed lorry
and began to spill its contents on to the road. The acid is poisonous and
corrosive. Cambridge has experienced 21 such incidents in the past two years.
Police cars blocked the road and three fire units drenched the rear end of the
lorry with water, yet a girl on her way to a nearby post-box splashed through the
liquid around the lorry, wearing nothing on her feet but wooden sandals
1949

A scheme which will be of great assistance to the wives of farm workers is the
“Packed Meals Scheme for Agricultural Workers” which is being organised by Mrs Nunn
of Cambridge. The Ministry of Food is issuing the necessary licence and it is
proposed to deliver meals direct to the farm so that workers can collect them. The
meals will consist of three full rounds of sandwiches, two filled with meat and one
with cheese. There will also be a slice of cake at the inclusive cost of 1s. per
pack

1924

Abbey United Foootball Club’s record for the first three seasons of its existence
is one of which they are justifiably proud. After winning Div.III and Div.II of the
Cambs League in successive seasons, the club finished last season runners-up to St
Ives in Div.I and failed to do the “hat trick” by a single point

1899

The East Coast Mutoscope Company has been formed to popularise that entertaining
piece of mechanism which is known as the mutoscope, a portable instrument for the
production of animated pictures. The intention is to set up these machines
throughout the region so that by dropping a penny in the slot one may experience
all the pleasure of witnessing a cinematograph exhibition. The promoters have good
grounds for their confidence that the mutoscope will return handsome profits

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 5th July

1974

Projecting a good public image is going to cost the Anglian Water Authority £40,000
in publicity, exhibitions, printing and recruiting propaganda – right down to £500
for grooming leading spokesmen on how to give television interviews. A Lincolnshire
delegate said: “I think this may be a little excessive at the moment, bearing in
mind the hard times we are living in”

1949
Seven men, officials and employees of the London Aero Motor Transport Services Ltd,
said by the prosecution to have made “raid after raid on RAF equipment stored at
Stansted aerodrome” and to have operated a system of warning lights from the
airport’s control tower were before Saffron Walden magistrates today

1924
The Chief Constable reported that during the last quarter 40 indictable crimes were
reported for which 18 persons (one female) were charged. Of these four were
discharged, one imprisoned, one whipped, six fined, three bound over, one committed
to industrial school and two committed for trial. 1,245 vagrants were relieved. At
Linton certain action had been taken to make it a place that tramps had no wish to
go – and the result was that neighbouring workhouses had an undue number of tramps
on their books.

1899

Sir – now we are in the midst of the fruit season it would be well for property
owners in the neighbourhood of Midsummer Common to keep a sharp look out. “The
gentry” have started on me again, robbing my garden of fruit. It appears our
properties are at the mercy of a lot of lazy, loafing scamps. Woe betide the
unfortunate individual I catch as I have ready a nice stout cord and a pail of tar
to decorate him with so his “dear mother” won’t know him – J.C. Longstaff, New
Square, Cambridge.

TUESDAY 6th July

1974

The White Ribbon Hostel, in Cambridge, which provides accommodation for nearly 30
single men with no family backgrounds, may soon be run jointly by Cambridgeshire
County and Cambridge City Councils. Until 18 months ago the Salvation Army ran the
hostel at East Road. But rising costs and the prospects of having to pay thousands
of pounds to bring it up to the new fire safety standards led them to hand over the
project.

1949

Mr George Smith, of Green Farm, Weston Colville, celebrated his 101st birthday
today. His age and the ages of his nine children now total approx.700 years. There
are four generations in the house where he is living with one of his sons. In all
he has 13 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. A retired farmer, he was
born at Debden in 1848 but for the past 76 years has lived at Weston Colville

1924
Ely magistrates were occupied for some considerable time when an assault alleged to
have taken place on a train came before them. The complainant, a poultry dealer,
said he entered the restaurant car and asked for salmon. The attendant came back
and said “The chef says you cannot have the salmon, as we may eat it for dinner”.
He was offered Welsh rarebit but did not know what that meant. This seemed to annoy
the steward who struck him under the chin. Another poultry dealer said that some of
the waiters were saucy sometimes, but she always put them in their place.

1899
Mr Fred Crisp, who last year was High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire entertained the
members of the London Society of East Anglians at a garden party at the White House
– Mr Crisp’s New Southgate residence. A large number made their way to that
charming northern suburb where the genial host provided various entertainment to
charm their visitors, who included the Mayor of Cambridge. The guests travelled
back to town by special train

WEDNESDAY 7th July

1974

This is the last summer of traffic-choked agony for Newmarket,. By the end of the
year the new by-pass will have reduced traffic through the town by 75%. Figures
show that the 34,000 vehicles which use Newmarket High Street daily throughout the
summer would be down to 9,400 when the by-pass opens. At present the High Street
was a noisy, dirty, traffic-choked road, pitted with derelict buildings, said MP
Eldon Griffith

1949

Questions about chocolates and sweets at Midsummer Fair were asked in the House of
Commons. Mr Stubbs asked if the Minister of Food was aware that gambling tables
were packed with high-class chocolates, given to winners. Mr Symonds said a week
before the fair took place the stall holders were sending touts around to retailers
offering fantastic prices for sweets, and, for instance, offering 5s. for a packet
of 20 cigarettes

1924

The National Federation of Building Trades Operatives held a largely-attended

strike meeting on Parker’s Piece, Cambridge. They were out for 1s.6d. an hour for
trades and 1s.1¾d for labourers, an increase of 1d.They also want a 44-hour week
and the employment of trade unionists only. At Newmarket building operatives demand
an advance of 2d per hour. Masters and men met in conference but failed to agree
and the men will come out on strike tonight

1899

One of the most popular of village feasts is that of Histon. This feast flourishes
with surprising vigour and during its run the proprietors of roundabouts, shooting
galleries and cocoanut shies draw no inconsiderable portions of their season’s
income from the villagers and visitors. The festival takes place on the village
green and on Monday evening the usual holiday crowd amused itself after time-
honoured fashion, notwithstanding the full inch of mud to wade through in some
places.

THURSDAY 8th July

1974

The unofficial title of Champion Herd of Cambridgeshire has gone to the Littleport
firm, J.H. Martin & sons ltd, whose 70-strong Friesian herd won three titles in the
Milk Marketing Board’s milk records competition. It beat off opposition from
Grantchester farmer Mr Bob Vigas, who gained second place and Mr F. D. Everitt of
Stretham.

1949

Cambridge borough council have applied to borrow £25,000 for the purchase of the
crematorium in Huntingdon Road. In 1936 the council took active steps towards
building a crematorium on their own site, but, in the meanwhile the Cambridge and
County Crematorium Company had been formed and they were talking steps to build
their own crematorium. The demand for cremations had increased and there was every
indication it would continue to do so. The figures for the Cambridge crematorium
had increased for 228 in 1941 to 421 in 1948

1924

A resolution passed at Harlton annual parish meeting: “That in view of the high
rates we pay we should have our local policeman’s house coupled by telephone to the
police station at Cambridge”. The Chief Constable said he did not want the
telephone at Harlton; it was a most expensive business. Harlton was one of the
places where a telephone was least required.

1899
The Great Eastern Railway Company has for many years been engaged in carrying the
workpeople of East London to and from their work and Liverpool Street and Fenchurch
Street stations every morning are thronged with the wage earners of East London.
Now within a few miles of Cambridge Messrs Chivers have established a jam factory
and in the fruit picking season employ an average of 8,000 people, most drawn from
Cambridge. For their benefit the Great Eastern Railway has now provided trains to
Histon, morning and night. These are of immense convenience to the fruit pickers
and in putting them on the railway company has in promoting its own welfare
promoted also that of Cambridge.

FRIDAY 9th July

1974

Twelve transport cafes in Mid Anglia have been praised in a new Egon Ronay guide.
The Ki-ora café on the A11 at Newport is described as “so popular that drivers
often queue at the door and eat their meals in their cabs”. An old lorry driver
knew why: “That’s only because the place ain’t big enough”. It is a very small
place, seating less than 20 at five tables, but it is a friendly place, run by the
Butcher family, and the prices seem very reasonable.

1949

Sir – Three months ago I notified the County Council of a breakdown in the water
supply of Lt Eversden; the immediate solution was found by the inhabitants
themselves. This week, the village pump has failed and we have the spectacle of
children taking bottles of water to the school for their personal needs, and aged
inhabitants carrying buckets full considerable distances through the village. Is
there nothing short of an outbreak of disease which will induce the authorities to
consider the problem urgent enough – R.G. Reis

1924
The quality of the entertainment presented by the People’s Theatre, East Rd,
Cambridge, by Mr James Weight is, with occasional lapses, “getting better and
better”. Messrs Harvey and Taylor’s “Boom” company provides enough laughter in the
two hours’ programme to make even “Dismal Jimmy” unbend. Miss Dorothy Owen, is a
charming soubrette with a speciality as a clever child mimic, and Will Osborne, a
light comedian, is no stranger to Cambridge. He did much concert work on behalf of
Addenbrooke’s Hospital in the war days.

1899
It is a piece of good fortune for suburban Cambridge that Homerton New College have
provided what is bound to be a first-rate elementary school for New Cherryhinton.
The Morley Memorial School, at which teachers will be taught to teach, should be a
model school and the most approved methods of education will be pursued in it. The
memorial stone was laid by a son of Mr Samuel Morley whose life unobtrusively
devoted to the highest interests of his fellow men is one that deserves to be held
in deepest honour.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 12th July

1974

The bells of Oakington church are ringing again after 50 years silence thanks to
the efforts of four boys from the village. For almost a year, Graham Brasnett, aged
13, Tony Moore, 12, his brother David, 11, and their friend Michael Cleaver, 11,
who all live in Water Lane, have been helping the vicar to repair the 300-year-old
bells which experts said would never ring again. The vicar, Rev. James Alexander,
said he was very pleased the bells were ringing again. His only disappointment:
“They don’t have a very beautiful ring”
1949
Sir - On 2nd July two Hornet aircraft flew over Kings college in perfect visibility
at a height of well below 200 feet. My two children were very badly frightened
indeed. I feel certain that even at the phenomenal speed of 400 mph in a somewhat
out-of-date aircraft, a pilot should be able to avoid the centre of a town the size
of Cambridge. There are some parents who have flown in aircraft, and their children
too, and they have even been bombed by them. The curious fact is that young
children are still scared to death of low-flying aircraft – Edward Leigh

1924
Within the space of a quarter of an hour three casualties were admitted to
Addenbrooke’s Hospital last night. The first was Mr Sidney Fuller of the Toll
House, Beck Row. He was loading a truck on a light railway when it tipped and fell
on him. While at the Conservative fete at Madingley Mrs Eliza Armitage slipped and
broke her right leg and Jack Everitt of Cheveley Hall (3) was conveyed for
treatment of a broken leg sustained by falling on a heap of stones

1899
Dr Dennis Adams, one of the oldest and best-known medical practitioners of
Cambridge has passed away. His career reaches back for many years. His practice was
a large one; it was chiefly among members of the University. In celebration of the
Jubilee of his practice in 1889 he was presented with a splendid collection of
silver candlesticks. It is well known that he was not an admirer of the display of
expensive flowers and wreaths at funerals and friends will probably wish to show
their respect in some other manner

TUESDAY 13th July

1974

Time and cost, two major problems when you are having your own house build, have
been drastically cut in a revolutionary new house in Cambridge. It took only three
months to put up the tall, airy three-bedroomed house at 214 Chesterton Rd, and the
cost (without land) was £7,200 – less than half the normal figure to build a house
of this quality. This remarkable feat was achieved by a Cambridge University
lecturer in architecture who designed it for his own family. His method was to use
unconventional building material. A timber frame, flat asbestos sheets form the
walls and a feature of the design is the huge expanse of glass. It is an exciting,
attractive home which could set a new style in house building.

1949

Yesterday was a typical hot-weather day in the life of the Cambridgeshire fire
service. They had no fewer than nine calls, mostly to grass fires. They went to a
fire at Church St, Willingham where a heap of manure had caught alight. At 6.19 pm
a call was received from the Willows, near Barnold crossing, Waterbeach, where
there is a considerable quantity of peat land. The railway embankment there has
been alight for about a month now and the fire brigade was called to prevent it
from spreading to the crops. The firemen were out all night and were still there
this morning
1924
King’s Meadow and Fellow’s Garden made an ideal setting for such a gay function as
the Cambridge Pageant and Gala held there yesterday. The chief attraction was the
pageant depicting Stourbridge Fair in 1450, a brilliant affair for which the
Women’s Institutes were responsible. Over 500 performers took part. Among the gay
throng were monks and nuns in the sober habits of their orders and an undergraduate
or two. Morris dancers, jongleurs and mummers, with a dancing bear have a merry
performance

1899

Sir – The population of Chesterton is mainly composed of people who have been
turned out of Cambridge to make way for college and other improvements, and nearly
all are employed in that ancient town. Every day brings evidence of the great need
of another crossing of the Cam & that Abbey Road is the place goes without saying.
The De Freville Estate, are absolutely dependent upon the old punts and other
obsolete marine structures for crossing over to Cambridge. . It must be conceded
that a bridge over this part of the Cam is of the highest importance –
“Chestertonian”

WEDNESDAY 14th July

1974

Charges at some Cambridge city car parks are to rise by as much as 50%. At Park
Street the charge for the first hour will rise from 5p to 7p and a sliding scale
will increase other charges to a maximum of 75p for more than five hours. New
Square will start at 7p and rise to 40p. At Queen Anne Terrace and the Saxon Street
parks the daily charge will increase from 10p to 15p.

1949

Newmarket racegoers could hardly have been prepared for the unexpected sight that
met their gaze when they arrived at the July course. There was the imperturbable
hitherto collar-choked British “Bobby” enjoying the comfort of an open neck. It was
the first time in the history of the force that members of the Cambs county
constabulary had worn the new open-neck type of summer uniform. Meanwhile in
Newmarket High Street less fortunate members cursed the discomfort of their heavy
winter uniform. They had not been allowed to wear their much lighter ordinary (but
strictly ‘old look’) summer tunics

1924
Cambridge is shortly to lose a rendezvous which has become very popular in the
years succeeding the war. I refer to the “Dug-Out” which, with the Black Swan
public house next door (in Guildhall Place) has been sold to the University
Catholic Association. It is their intention to transform the premises into a centre
for Roman Catholic undergraduates

1899

Griffiths and Chennell offered for sale Regal Lodge” at Kentford. It comprises a
handsomely appointed residence which Mrs Langtry has used as a country residence.
It is fitted throughout with all modern conveniences and luxury and has three
reception, one billiard, nine bed and dressing and two bath-rooms. The gardens are
delightfully set out and there is stabling for 18 horses. It was sold for £6,700.
Mrs Langtry arrived just as the sale was concluding.

THURSDAY 15th July

1974

The world’s first test-tube babies have been born, and at least one of them is
alive in Britain. A Cambridge University scientist, Dr Robert Edwards, of the
Department of Physiology, has figured prominently in work involving producing a
test-tube baby. He and a colleague, Dr Patrick Steptoe, an Oldham gynaecologist,
have been working on the technique of fertilising the human egg in the laboratory.

1949
Rapid progress has been made this week in the demolition of Coad’s former shop at
the junction of Emmanuel street and St Andrew’s street, Cambridge. The work, which
forms part of the street widening scheme envisaged many years before the war, will
involve the complete clearance of the corner and the provision of a larger curve to
assist buses and increase visibility. There is no immediate prospect of further
developments in the scheme but it is possible that a seat might be provided on the
newly-cleared space.

1924
Matters appear to be practically at a standstill in connection with the local
building dispute. Meetings of each side are being held but any possibility of a
joint meeting seems as far away as it was a week ago when the strike began. A
demonstration organised by the building trades operatives and the Cambridge Labour
Party was held on Parker’s Piece

1899
Can the meteorologists tell what has happened to the English climate? Last summer
was hot, but the extraordinary protracted heat was set down as a meteorological
eccentricity that was not likely to be repeated. Yet this summer the thermometer
has been dancing between 80 and 90. If this happens another year it will be
necessary to take counsel as to whether England should not adopt Indian usages. The
mid-day siesta may come into vogue. But the weather is a fickle thing. One day it
is oppressively hot, the next day it is delightfully cool. One summer it is the
weather of the tropics; the next may be distinctly suggestive of the arctic circle

FRIDAY 16th July

1974

Royston has allowed itself to be spoilt; it lacks shopping facilities; it is an

expensive place for housing; and it is a town in limbo not knowing whether it
should turn to Cambridge or North Hertfordshire, says Prof. Parry Lewis in his
planning report. “This is a town that is surrounded by extremely beautiful
countryside containing several villages of delightful character and appearance. As
one approaches there is an expectation of something that might perhaps have
something of the quality of Saffron Walden. The expectation is rudely
disappointed”, he says.

1949

Considerable damage by lightening and flooding was caused by thunderstorms. At

least four houses were struck in Cambridge and a thunderbolt is reported to have
exploded in De Freville Ave, where two houses were struck. The fire brigade
received 90 calls for assistance in dealing with flooded premises on Saturday. They
point out many premises are flooded everytime there is a severe downpour and that
the occupants can help themselves by making sumps at the lowest parts to facilitate
the operation of the fire brigade pumps.

1924
About 380 spend a very enjoyable evening in the picturesque grounds of “Primrose
Croft”, Primrose St, Cambridge when a very successful al fresco open-air dance was
held there, Sewell’s orchestra providing the music. The grounds ere prettily
illuminated with fairy lamps, Chinese lanterns and the like, and every provision
was made for the comfort of the dancers. The lighting scheme has been considerably
improved. The next dance will take place on Wednesday

1899
A fatality occurred today. The scene of the accident was the new stores being
erected in Burleigh Street, Cambridge for the Co-operative Company. The outer walls
have been built up and the workmen are engaged on the interior. One scaffolder,
named Thomas Filby, aged 60, was engaged on the scaffolding erected above the top
floor. He fell sheer into the basement on to a heap of broken brick. Before he
lapsed into a state of utter insensibility he was heard to murmer, “It’s all up”

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 19th July

1974

Seven generation of Barretts have been supplying the citizens of Cambridge with
pottery and glass since the C18. This week the family business is virtually “coming
home to roost” in opening up new premises in Gt St Mary’s Passage – only a stone’s
throw from the spot where Simon Barrett opened up his first shop nearly 200 years
ago. The long-established premises in St Andrew’s Street will still remain in
business.

1949

Mass radiography is gradually gaining popularity throughout the country and larger
numbers of people are showing willingness to have an X-ray examination. One way in
which the length of time taken has been cut down is through the mobile van –
thought to be one of the first of its kind in the country. Cambridge is one of the
lucky towns included in its area and quite a number of local factory are taking
advantage of the facility. Recently it visited Pyes, where approx 1,900 people
submitted themselves for X-rays. This represents 84% of the employees

1924

Albert Sory told Saffron Walden magistrates that he lived in a railway carriage
bungalow with his invalid mother at Arkesden. He was awaken by a noise outside and
saw defendant tear down the fence and throw the gate at the bungalow and then he
came along with a stick and smashed eight panes of glass. P.C. Butcher said
defendant told him he did it because the bricks on which the bungalow had been
built belonged to him, and he would have them. He “would either burn the place down
or pull it over”

1899
A public inquiry at Newmarket was told that a charity founded in 1792 by John
Perram directed the income should be applied in marriage portions for such
parishioners being between the age of 20 and 25, and not worth £20, as should be
married in the parish church on Thursday in Easter week. Failing such persons the
income was to be given to the winner of the next Town Plate to augment the stake
money. For several years past no application had been made for the income and the
charity was in abeyance.
TUESDAY 20th July

1974

Urgent talks on the future of Stansted airport are being called by the MP for
Saffron Walden, Mr Peter Kirk, following the decision to scrap the Maplin airport
plans. He is arranging meetings with local authorities and pressure-groups around
Stansted to thrash out a collective opposition to the possibility of massive
expansion of the airport. Under a new scheme Stansted, which only recorded 31,000
aircraft movements last year, could be coping with 16 million passengers by the
1990s.

1949

People living in the vicinity of Newnham college have watched with interest the
building operations being carried out there. The new porters’ lodge will take the
place of the original entrance – with its beautiful bronze gates – in Newnham Walk.
Over it is the college’s first real lecture room, lectures having previously been
given in the main hall. The building is extremely modern in style and provides an
interesting break in Sidgwick Avenue

1924
Anxious to help their fund for the provision of a new Sunday schoolroom the
Wesleyans of Witcham rose to the occasion when a garden fete took place in the Hall
Gardens. Mrs McFall said Sunday schools of the present time were unlike those of
years ago, when the younger children were taught in cellars beneath the churches.
Little children looked to their teachers and they should set a good example by
leading pure and holy lives

1899
A 15 year-old Newmarket newsboy was charged by Walter Marsh, newsagent, with
embezzling the sum of 9d. He had been employed seven years to deliver newspapers
and was authorised to collect money for delivery. One of his customers was sent a
bill at the rate of 7d per week and extra for copies of the Cambridge Daily News
which had been supplied. It was returned with the remark that he always paid for
the week’s papers on Monday morning but the CDN, which he had when he could get
one, he paid for at the time of delivery. The lad said he had lost half-a-sovereign
out of his pocket and got his money mixed up.

WEDNESDAY 21st July

1974

Parry Lewis and his team of planners have examined the possibility of expanding
Cambridge. Their studies convince them the best plan was to expand the city in a
southern direction. Development would follow a line east of the new Western bypass.
A second shopping centre would be located to the south-west of Trumpington. There
would in addition be various district centres and a suitable amount of industrial
and office development

1949

The Ministry of Transport has refused a request by Cambridge Corporation for a

grant towards the cost – estimated at £23,288 – of work on the ring road between
Coldham’s Lane and Ditton Walk. A grant from the road fund was out of the question
as the work was of “purely local necessity” and there was no prospect of completing
the ring road for some years.
1924

A new allotment society was formed in Cambridge at a meeting of applicants for land
in the Vinery road allotments. Mr Newman said this particular land had been
allocated for allotments under the Town Planning Act and the 11½ acres would be
allotments for ever. (Applause). It was to be hoped they would be made to look very
beautiful and that uniform fencing would be erected. The Central Allotments Council
hoped to eventually take the whole of the allotments from the Town Council and
would be able to run them much better.

1899
Ald Hyde Hills called attention to the state of the roads in Cambridge. They were
in a disgraceful state & a perfect scandal to the town. Mr Tillyard said they had
had a breakdown of one of the steam rollers, and it was found impossible to get it
repaired. They had trouble with the labour market, which was extremely brisk just
now. The average number of men employed was 110, which was five less that last
year. During the last month they had lost nine of their best men

THURSDAY 22nd July

1974

The people of Cambridge would never accept the building of the proposed Western
Relief Road project, linking Huntingdon road with Trumpington road and going
through Newnham or near Grantchester, it was claimed by city councillors. In
addition the county a road linking Huntingdon road with Madingley road. But Counc.
Overhill supported the road. “If this was proposed through the middle of
Chesterton, nobody would complain. It is only because it is going through Newnham
that people are against it”, he said

1949

The Mayor of Cambridge attended the re-opening of the Cambridge Motor Boat Club’s
pavilion at Clayhithe. The secretary said how fortunate the club had been recently.
Last year it was presented with a pair of gates by Rear-commodore H. Lister; since
then it had been given a ship’s bell, a silver cup by Mr Norman, and now, through
the kindness and generosity of Commodore R. C. Pierce, it had a practically new
pavilion

1924

The Cambs Horticultural Society are deeply to be commiserated with upon the
continued bad luck in the matter of weather, which permanently dogs their
footsteps. It would indeed be a rare and welcome occasion is they were one day to
chance upon a fine afternoon and evening for their annual show; but one fears that
some of the members might not survive the shock.

1899
That a village of the size and importance of Waterbeach should be lighted goes
without saying. It is something of a disgrace that what may be called the
metropolis of a parish with an assemblage value of £13,000 should be left in
complete darkness after sunset on the nights when the moon deigns not to shine. The
disgrace is all the greater because there was a time when it was lighted of nights.
That was when it had gas of its own. But since it lost its gas it has been content
to make shift in darkness
FRIDAY 23rd July

1974

Comedian Eric Morecambe, in a borrowed Ironside helmet, led the celebrations at St

Ives when extensions at the Golden Lion Hotel were officially opened. He met
hundreds of local people who came along for the free beer and merry-making. Between
signing autographs on beer mats Eric sparred with Joe Bugner, one of the guests.

1949

At a meeting of private dental practitioners in Cambridge it was resolved by a

large majority that no more National Health Service patients could be accepted,
other than for emergency treatment, as a protest against the action of the Minister
in reducing fees without waiting for the report of the committee considering the
matter. Mr Dennard said they were hum-bugging people about: “A man told me that he
had got toothache and had been to two dentists but they refused to take the tooth
out”.

1924
A sad story of how an old employee of the University and Town Gas Company, bravely
endeavouring to carry on with his work, although not in a fit state to do so, died
practically “in harness”, dropping dead in Huntingdon road was told at the inquest
on the body of a man aged 59. Witness said deceased complained of his heart and
said he could not help with the push-cart. Dr Apthorpe Webb said the only wonder
was that he was able to do any work at all in the condition he was in.

1899
An action was brought by Thomas Barlow, baker of Litlington to recover £9 from a
Bassingbourn butcher in respect of a breach of warranty in a horse dealing
transaction. Defendant had told him the mare was quiet to ride and drive, but that
on putting her in the trap she was a little bit “swishy”. He drove the mare to
Royston, and on starting from Joe Coote’s shop it began to kick. On the way home it
had two other turns of kicking. On the following morning he took two hours in
attempting to get the mare into the cart, then gave it up for a bad job

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 26th July

1974

The racing industry would collapse without stablelads. They are the nursemaids of
the industry. There are about 750 stable workers in Newmarket. For years their
conditions and rates of pay were deplorable. This has changed completely since the
strike of 1960 and Newmarket is considered one of the best racing towns in which to
work. The basic weekly wage is now £26.43

1949

The Ministry of Transport’s refusal to accede to their application for a grant

towards the cost of building a ring road from Coldham’s Lane to Ditton Walk was
attacked at the meeting of the Cambridge town council. Ald. Raynes said they had
decided in 1938 to proceed with a ring road on the East side of the town to link up
Milton Road, over the river and railway on the north side, and the Hauxton and
Hills Road on the south side. It was a tremendous job financially, and would
obviously serve the nation and not merely the ratepayers of Cambridge.

1924
The large body of photographers from the Royal Photographic Society. who visited
Cambridge recently were much impressed by some very artistic coloured portraits in
the window of J. Palmer Clarke’s establishment in Post Office Terrace. They are
something quite new, and of a very high artistic quality, as nearly like oil
paintings as camera portraits are likely to be made. The method of colouring is the
personal work of Mr C.E. Goodrich - 24 07 22

1899
Caxton rural district council considered whether it would not be a financial gain
to purchase a steam roller to combine the rolling of the roads and the haulage of
the granite. A great outlay in carting by means of horses would be avoided. The
Surveyor thought the council should hire a roller when they wanted it, as beyond
the first cost there would be the continual expense of upkeep. He thought the
roller belonging to the Chesterton council cost about £200 a year

TUESDAY 27th July

1974

After all the artists had been booked for the first Cambridge Folk Festival 10
years ago the agent of a young American singer rang up the Festival director, Ken
Woollard, to see if the singer could be added to the bill. They accepted an offer
of £14 worth of complimentary advertising in the first programme and the singer
appeared. His name was Paul Simon. Ten years on, with the Simon and Garfunkel
world-winning partnership already cold history he is top of the word in his own
right. So, too, in its own world, is the Festival

1949

Cambridgeshire federation of anglers were told there were thousands of fish in

distress in the River Cam near Jesus Green footbridge on July 15th. The lock keeper
opened the locks to let them through. Unfortunately a lot of the fish were dead,
but there was no doubt that thousands were saved. Many big fish were taken in nets
by men and placed in water downstream. Many dead fish had since been seen further
downstream and Major Gordon Fowler said there were dead fish “as far as the eye can
see”

1924
A rule has been established that all jockeys riding in steeplechases must wear a
“Safety First” crash helmet. Congratulations are due to the enterprising Cambridge
firm of Messrs Herbert Robinson who specialise in the production of “crash helmets”
for the motor racing enthusiast. Realising the steeple chasing jockey was running
the risk of losing his life they once again “got down to it” and have now been
appointed sole suppliers of their own patent helmets to the National Hunt Committee

1899
Three young men were summoned for illegally fishing in Sandy’s Cut, near Ely. Under
the provision of an Act of Parliament the South Level Commissioners bought the
land, which was not then covered with water. Therefore no person having land
adjoining the foreshore could have any right to fish in the water in question,
because until this cut was made there was no water flowing in that direction at all

WEDNESDAY 28th July

1974

The USAF open day at Alconbury has been cancelled after IRA bomb warnings. The
decision to put off the flying spectacular, which annually attracts thousands of
visitors, was taken last night. Alconbury is the base of the 10th Tactical
Reconnaissance Wing and their 54 Phantom aircraft operate within Nato.

1949

Newmarket urban district council is to inform the Jockey Club that unless they are
prepared to sell the council 40 acres of land required for housing in the
Houldsworth Valley at a price recommended by the District Valuer, they will seek
compulsory purchase powers. Mr Ted Leader, the racehorse trainer, said he was
unhappy and worried about the whole scheme on financial grounds. He estimated that
each house would cost at least £1,300 excluding sewerage and roadworks. In addition
proper horse tracks would cost £9,000. “By the time we have built these houses we
shall have defeated our own object for we want houses at rents which the public can
afford”, he said

1924
After a good deal of discussion the County Council agreed that the salary of Mr H.
Morris, the Education Secretary be increased to £800 per annum. In the absence of
the Chairman of the Education Committee (Coun. H.W. Hurrell), Coun. Fordham said
that if they treasured Mr Morris fairly, he thought they would be able to retain
his services for a good many years. He had been offered another much better post,
but preferred to remain in Cambs.

1899

The village of Trumpington has been selected for the making of a peculiarly
interesting and hopeful experiment on the part of Cambridgeshire nonconformity. The
question recently came up how best to continue religious services for those in the
village who do not belong to the Church of England and was answered by the
suggestion that they should have a Free Church to seat 150 persons. Yesterday the
memorial stone was laid by Mr S. Mansfield.

THURSDAY 29th July

1974

A Cambridge undergraduate accused of cheating in an examination has been found

guilty by the University Court of Discipline. He has been rusticated for the whole
of next year and deprived of the chance of obtaining an Honours Degree. This was
announced in a statement from the court, who had only their second sitting in
history to hear the case. The undergraduate has the right of appeal to the
Septemviri. They are the higher court of senior University members who would be
convened specially for the occasion and who have not sat since before the last war

1949

Notices announcing that unlimited supplies of sweets are on sale to all have caused
record business at some of Cambridge’s sweet shops. Queues have formed rapidly –
and with the sweets ready weighed and wrapped – have been dealt with smoothly. The
sweets – several thousand pounds of them – have come from Holland due to the
enterprise of a local businessman who spent a holiday there recently.
1924
When the list of Cambridgeshire men who fell in the war was being compiled for the
Memorial Chapel in Ely Cathedral there were many expressions of regret that the
Borough itself had no official record of names. Most of the parishes have their own
lists but there is no complete list of Cambridge names other than the sheet
published at a popular price by the C.D.N. some two or three years ago, and now to
be seen in the Free Library. Now there is a proposal for the provision of a roll of
names in the Guildhall

1899
On Friday some passers by saw flames issuing from one of two stacks adjoining the
highway about midway between the Newmarket Fever Hospital and Fordham. Now an
elderly tramp has said he had gone to the stack to sleep. He had overslept next
morning and on getting up to continue his journey had lit his pipe and accidentally
set the straw on fire by dropping the lighted match

FRIDAY 30th July

1974

If you drive down Mill Lane, Gt Chesterford, you had better be prepared to abandon
your car. For although it is open to vehicles down one side, it’s for walkers only
on the way back. The trouble is a classic case of bureaucratic bungling between two
county councils. They have given different designations to each side of the road,
which straddles the county boundary and leads to a sewerage works. On the Essex
side it is a byway open to vehicles. But on the Cambridgeshire side it is a
footpath and only open to walkers.

1949

Members of the public received a bouquet from Chesterton R.D.C. when they were
thanked for the way they had helped in the paper salvage drive, which has now
ceased. They are now asked to burn their own waste paper to save the time and
labour of it being collected. A fire occurred in the Nissen hut used for the
bailing and storage of waste paper at the Histon tip. It was gutted together with
eight tons of paper directly due to the council’s inability to find a market for it

1924
In the early hours of the morning the sound of tramping feet, accompanied by
singing and cheering in the vicinity of Tenison Road, Cambridge, indicated that the
Cambs. Territorials were returning from camp. The fact that rain set in just as
they were marching out of camp, soaking them to the skin before they entrained, and
that they again encountered rain at Cambridge did not seem to dampen their
enthusiasm in the least.

1899
A Braughing shop was summoned for exposing for sale by retail a parcel of
margarine, without having a label attached thereto. An Inspector said he went into
the shop and saw a parcel of something that looked like butter. He asked how much
that butter was a pound and defendant replied “one shilling”. A report from an
analyst set forth there was butter 40% and margarine 60%. For the defence it was
stated that she was not aware that it was necessary for a label to be exposed if it
was sold in the margarine paper. Fined 20s.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 2nd August

1974

Cambridgeshire Football Association’s annual attempt to improve their position as

one of the poorest of poor relations where coaching is concerned gets under way at
Cambridge City’s Milton Road, ground. Freddie Barrett, the county’s head of
coaching, has been running short, intensive annual courses for 25 years since he
qualified as a full-time FA coach, but despite his considerable efforts, coaching
in Cambridgeshire is still in its infancy. Over 6,000 people turn out every weekend
in Cambridgeshire to play football which puts in perspective the figure of 32 for
attendance at last year’s coaching course

1949
A four-tier birthday cake bearing 28 candles was wheeled on to the stage of the
Central Cinema, Cambridge, in celebration of its 28th birthday. Freddie Webb’s
Embassy band, which is trying to find a Rudolph Valentino double, played ‘Happy
birthday to you’. A big hit with the audience was the appearance on the stage of
two of the cinema’s oldest patrons. They were Mrs Annie Stokes, aged 86, and Mrs
Emma Brown, aged 72. They well remember Rudolph Valentino and a roar when up from
the audience when Mrs Brown confessed that she would have liked him for a husband

1924

Shotgrove manor, near Saffron Walden, with a history that goes back to the days
before the Norman Conquest was sold for the owner, Lady Adele Meyer, and realised
£44,000. The present mansion was built in the reign of Queen Anne. Besides the
mansion, the estate, which extends to some 1,080 acres, includes several farms

1899

Sir – I was cycling from Cambridge to Soham and between Burwell and Fordham I cam
suddenly upon a closed and barred gate, which I was kindly permitted to pass
through on paying a toll of twopence. I learned that the gate is called the Ness
Gate, that the roadway at this point is Crown property. In its present position
this gate is a danger to cyclists but its very existence is a ridiculous and
monstrous anomaly with its toll of 1d for every vehicle hailing from Burwell and 4d
for every vehicle coming from less favoured districts. It is a very unfortunate
circumstance that this piece of road is rented by the vice-chairman of the County
Council – A.J. Wyatt

TUESDAY 3rd August

1974

The 1¼ acre Arbury adventure playground looks like a wild west stockade, with tall
telegraph poles visible above the high fencing and a tattered union jack blowing in
the breeze. It lies on the northern edge of the housing estate. As many as 250
children are likely to be there during the school holidays. It was parents on the
estate who got the venture going and raised the initial money. Fencing alone cost
more than £1,000. Since then the city council have helped with grants

1949

The MP for Cambridgeshire, (Mr A.E. Stubbs), having received complaints from
mothers that some children do not receive the ration food allowed when employed on
the land questioned the Minister of Food. He was told allowances are given for
harvesting, including fruit, potatoes and root-crops, haymaking, threshing,
singling, lambing and sheep shearing. If schoolchildren are doing work of this kind
they are entitled to seasonal allowances.

1924

Ely Urban councillors reported they had inspected 18 cottages in Bray’s Lane &
Newnham street. In every house they found that the windows fitted badly, let in
rain, and were very draughty. The tenants complained that they were unable to keep
their goods in the larders, owing to the windows being fitted with perforated zinc,
that let in the dust. A letter was read, signed by 19 of the tenants, relative to a
reduction of rents which were 9s a week for the parlour type and 7s per week for
the non-parlour type

1899

Chesterton urban district council asked how to proceed in regard to eleven owners
who had not complied with an order to hang gates or doors upon their premises so
that they should open on to the inside. The chairman said that in some cases it was
quite impossible to open the doors inside without practically pulling down the
whole of the premises. Mr Cross remarked that it inflicted greatest hardship upon
owners who had had their plans passed by the surveyor and now found they had built
sheds that would be rendered practically useless. Presently they would be asked to
take the roof off their houses and put in on another way if this sort of thing went
on

WEDNESDAY 4th August

1974

The White Ribbon hostel in East Road, Cambridge, which provides a home for 30
working men with no family backgrounds, has been declared a great fire hazard by
Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service. For many years the hostel was run by the
Salvation Army but they were forced to give up when the high cost of bringing the
building up to fire safety standards was discovered last year. The building was
then run by Cambridgeshire Mental Welfare Association. But because of other
commitments, they have handed over the administration to the county council.
Eventually the authorities hope to replace the old buildings with new ones. But no
swift action is likely in rebuilding because of the present serious shortage of
money in local government circles.

1949

“Flying housewife”, Mrs Richarda Morrow-Tait, of Cambridge, complained of a

Canadian transport department official’s alleged advice: “Go home and look after
your baby”. She is trying to finish the last leg of her round the world flight, but
the Canadian government has refused to let her fly over their territory

1924

For a considerable time past there had been a desire on the part of many residents
to acquire a suitable site for the creation of an additional 18-hole golf course
and recreation ground. After inspecting several sites one on the Babraham estate
was offered on favourable terms, a site which James Braid, the famous professional,
declared as eminently suitable. A capital of £10,000 is required for the erection
of a club house and, later on, hard and grass tennis courts and bowling and putting
greens will be added. It is proposed the house shall have a thatched roof to
conform with other roofs in the locality

1899
The policeman on foot is heavily handicapped when he has to make chase of a cyclist
who is able to propel himself at the rate of 20 miles an hour. The case is a good
deal altered when Robert is an expert cyclist mounted upon a satisfactory machine,
Then it is a case of scorcher versus scorcher. P.C. Jeff is a member of the
Hertford Police Cycling Corps. While on duty near Thurlow he espied a knight of the
wheel riding at a rate which suggested the roads of Hertfordshire were the rider’s
private property. Upon his own cycle he started in pursuit, and before long he was
able to make up to the fugitive. A summons will follow in due course

THURSDAY 5th August

1974

First into the new swimming pool built by the men at Waterbeach barracks was the
officer commanding 63 Headquarters Squadron, Major J.M. Allen. He was thrown in by
his men at the official opening ceremony. A squad of 17 men built the 30-metre pool
from scratch. It cost about £10,000 and is Waterbeach’s first major amenity purpose
built for the 1,000 men. Next September a Government-built gymnasium should be
completed

1949

After anxiously following the dramatic story of the frigate, Amnethyst and its
enforced stay in the Yangtse river at the hands of the Chinese communists,
Cambridge parents Mr & Mrs A.B. Hawkins, whose son is a member of the crew, had
their worries dispelled yesterday with the arrival of the telegram from him bearing
the message: “Out of Yangste, safely on passage Hong Kong, love Charlie”. Charlie,
otherwise stoker mechanic, C. Hawkins, who is 20 years old, has been widely quoted
in the national newspapers with his part of the story of the Amethyst’s escape

1924
The West Cambs Fruit Growers’ Association inspected Mr Robert Stephenson’s new cold
storage premises and fruit plantations at Burwell Little Fen. It is divided into
four cold chambers, a packing shed and engine room. A large Cutler grader is to be
installed. The engine and plant for cooling include a big Blackstone oil engine and
Petter oil engine. The stores will accommodate about 600 tons of fruit

1899
William Askham, a labourer in the employ of Messrs Coulson & Lofts told Cambridge
police court that he was at work at Bridge Street and saw the prisoner, who was a
striker, standing on the pavement. He came upon the building and said he would
fight any one on the job for half-a-crown to a shilling. Prisoner said he was not
picketing that day. They only went on duty three days a week. He never asked the
men to “come out” and it was no use asking Askham to come out on strike because the
society would not have him. He was sent out by the society to induce men to come
out on strike, for which he received a shilling a day.

FRIDAY 6th August

1974

Cambridge teddy boys were out in force on Saturday for a double teddy boy wedding
at the Shire Hall. Members of the Cambridge Rock & Roll club dressed up to the
nines in teddy boy drapes, creepers, dazzling socks and boot-lace ties formed a
guard of honour for the two couples as they left the register office. All their
rock & roll friends were invited to a joint reception at the Alex Wood Hall when on
eof the country’s top rock and roll groups, the Impalas from London, played

1949

South Cambs RDC have accepted an offer from the Ministry of Health for 100
aluminium bungalows for workers in vital industries. They were informed that
Duxford and Sawston appeared to qualify for the bungalows which cost about £1,285
each for a group of between 20 and 50 houses.

1924
The land problem has been one of the pressing anxieties of our country for many a
long year, and to it has been added more recently the question of general
unemployment. The jubilee presentation made by the employees of Messrs Chivers to
the managing director, Mr John Chivers, is consequently of special interest, as
being a tribute to one whose energy, enterprise and foresight have done so much for
agriculture and manufacture. The firm now farms about 6,000 acres and gives
employment to some 3,000 people in the factory and on the land. Where tens were
employed, hundreds are now busy and happy and contented workers, many of them
enjoying, and many of them qualifying for a stake in the business as co-partners.

1899

A quantity of wheat in a field belonging to Mr S. Gentle, near the Barnwell

allotments, which had been recently cut, was discovered to be on fire. In a very
short time plenty of assistance was secured, but despite all efforts, the produce
of nearly an acre was destroyed before the fire could be extinguished. The outbreak
is supposed to have been caused by a spark from a passing railway engine alighting
on one of the sheaves.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 9 August

1974

Battling mothers at Abington last night won the first round in their fight to stop
Education chiefs from removing a mobile classroom at the village’s primary school.
Workmen who arrived at lunchtime intended to carry off all three sections of the
classroom to a school at Swaffham Bulbeck. But a group of more than a dozen mothers
sat in the final part of the classroom and prevented the workmen removing it. The
parents say the village hall, which the Department want the children to use
instead, is unsuitable for teaching in

1949

Regarding a news paragraph published on Saturday to the effect that oranges would
be available in the Cambridge area this week, we are informed that this incorrect.
The Fruit Distribution Pool tell us that the oranges were received last week, and
that most of the retailers have now sold them. The Ministry of Food sent only
enough for ¾ lb per head.

1924
A huge crowd witness Cambridge Mammoth Show events. The Rodeo displays, which were
expected to be a great attraction, were disappointing. The only part of the
programme that created any real enthusiasm were the steer riding, steer wrestling
from an automobile and broncho riding. Montana Bob, the world’s champion steer
rider was the chief performer. He had no easy task in overtaking the steer and even
when he had done so he had considerable difficulty in bringing it to the ground. In
doing so the steer trod on his arm but he was in sufficiently good form to ride the
bucking broncho a few minutes afterwards

1899

The holiday season is now in full swing and, taking advantage of it, the burglar is
busy at his nefarious profession. There are rumours that sever of these well-known
“gentlemen” have paid of their periodical visits to Cambridge and have commenced
operations. There has been a report of the mysterious perambulations of burglars in
the vicinity of Brooklands Avenue. At any rate the movement of strangers in that
district have given rise to suspicion

TUESDAY 10th August

1974

The Government has given the go-ahead with the production of a cigarette containing
artificial tobacco. N.S.M. (New Smoking Material) is really de-lignified wood pulp
shredded to look like a tobacco material. It has been under study at the Huntingdon
Research Centre for the past three years. The man in charge pronounced the new
product “terrible, it smells ghastly when it is burning, just like burning wood.
I’ll stick to ordinary tobacco”, he said

1949

Sheep-dog trials, a new venture on the part of Cambridge Entertainment Committee –

held under International Sheep Dog Society rules - attracted over 3,000 to the
county showground. To a townsman it was an unusual experience. As entertainers
these dogs in their work-a-day role are unique and highly accomplished performers,
and it was a joy to see them driving, “cutting” and penning sheep merely by
whistled or voiced commands.

1924

A sturgeon which was caught in Hemingford Grey Mill pit was the subject of interest
to a number of spectators at the MacFisheries depot in Petty Cury, Cambridge. It is
understood to be the largest fish that has been caught in the locality for some
years past. It weighed 185 lbs, was 8ft ½ inch in length, measured 38 inches round
the girth and was 19 inches across the tail. It is though the fish reached so high
up the river owing to the recent floods. The tail, fins and certain parts of the
intestines were removed to the Zoological Laboratories and portions of the flesh
and skin will be returned to Hemingford Grey

1899

Once a year the good felling existing at Pembroke college between members of the
colleges and the servants is given expression to. In recent years, largely owing to
the efforts of Mr A. Chapman, the butler, undergraduates and servants have united
in a festive gathering in the Long Vacation, and it has now assumed the aspect of
an annual affair. During the day a cricket match took place, the servants played in
the ordinary way, while the collegians used broomsticks as bats. Dinner in hall
followed and after this came a concert al fresco

WEDNESDAY 11th August

1974

Cedar Cycles of Cottenham, one of the biggest wholesale and retail bicycle dealers
in the Cambridge area, intend for the first time to exhibit foreign bikes only at
the Cambridge Leisure Fair. The decision seems to be part of a trend that could
subtly change the cycling scene in Cambridge – capital of British pedal power. More
and more foreign bikes are to be seen on city streets. Cedar Cycles, who cover a
large area in Mid-Anglia, say they sold nearly 1,000 new bicycles in 1973 and aim
to double the total within five years. They have just become East Anglian agents
for Yugoslavia’s Unis bicycles.

1949

Sitting in the bar of the Jolly Brewers in Union Rd, Cambridge, Jasper Maskelyne,
the famous magician who is appearing at the New Theatre, saw the landlord take up
his banjo and prepare to play. “When I heard how well he could play I decided he
was certainly good enough for the stage”, he said. As a result the licensee, Mr
Percy Jackson, will appear at the first house on Friday night and may be heard
later over the radio. Mr Jackson strummed and sang a popular Western number and
showed that his skill is well worth a wider audience than that of his bar, crowded
though that gets when he leads a singsong on Saturday nights.

1924

References to the building strike was made at Cambridge Trades Council and Labour
party showing that the strikers were prepared to continue the fight. They had got
1,200 operatives on the streets and there were as solid today as on the day they
came out. They had not had a bricklayer or carpenter “ratting”. This was the fifth
week of the strike and they were not afraid if they had to continue for 20 weeks.
They were going to back up the Executive and were going to win

1899

Friendly rowing, sculling and water polo matches were held between St Ives and
Oundle Rowing Clubs. In the four-oar race St Ives had the narrow boat, which again
sustained her character as the worst boat of the two, having never yet carried thw
winning crew. Wsy Ives No.2 lost his oar repeatedly, owing to a faulty rowlock and
it was not because of faulty rowing that they were beaten by three lengths.

THURSDAY 12th August

1974

Several hundred people were turned away from the Corn Exchange, Cambridge, when a
top American group, the Ronettes, failed to turn up for a concert date. Their agent
confirmed their lead singer Ronnie Spector had been taken ill. Earlier in the year
several hundred fans went on the rampage when another American group, The Drifters,
failed to play a concert date

1949

Miss Lana Morris, a J. Arthur Rank film starlet is to open the new Hemingfords
Peace Commemoration Playing Fields. Still in her teens, she has had a meteoric rise
to fame and will be remembered for the part she played in “Spring in Park Lane”.
Her visit is the culminating point of 4½ years of hard work on the part of the
Playing Fields committee who have been able to complete whey they consider to be
the best village playing field in the county
1924

A message broadcast from 2LO last night stated that the 16-year-old son of the Rev
Dawson Bolton of Haddenham, known as “Sonny”, is missing. His height is five feet
and he has dark hair with scar under right eye. Information should be sent to the
Ely police, through Scotland Yard

1899

It is possible there are people just now in Cambridge who are cross with the fate
which compels them to stay in the town while their friends at making merry in
popular holiday resorts or rusticating deep in the heart of the country. Let them
consider what a delightful place Cambridge is in the Long Vacation. They have the
river all to themselves, they can row on it, fish in it, bathe in it. The Omnibus
Company has materially enhanced the attractions of summer by instituting a series
of drives to places of interest. The Company have provide a set of excellently
appointed brakes and in a brake and large wagonette a party of 50 persons drove to
Trumpington, on to Newton and Whittlesford where there was a stay of half an hour.
The drive then resumed through Shelford back to Cambridge. The fare was just one
shilling a head. It is right that this enterprise should be so successful

FRIDAY 13TH August

1974

The decision to close down the RAF base at Oakington, first announced in 1972, was
confirmed yesterday. There were tears in the eyes of many workers when Wing
Commander G.J. Daly made the announcement. Mr Ivan Cockbill of Willingham, a chef
at the station since 1970 said: “We hoped the closure would be shelved”. Another
worker, Mr Martin Rainesford, of Cambridge, who has worked at the base for 17 years
said: “We are all sorry to see it close down”. The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers will
take over the base in April next year

1949

Sir – Many of your readers will be perturbed to hear of the recent happening on Coe
Fen camp. The council has forced the removal of all chickens and rabbits kept by
tenants. The real reason in my view is the marring of the view from Trumpington
road by the camp. Nissen encampments are not beautiful but the solution to the
problem is the building of proper homes for the people at present forced by the
acute housing shortage to live there – Jane Wolstencroft

1924
After extensive alterations and repairs the Rendezvous cinema, Cambridge, which
will noe be known as the New Rendezvous, was reopened. Considerable improvement
have been made in the appearance of the interior and the seating is now most
commodious. At the head of a long and attractive programme is “The Cabaret Dancer”
featuring Rudolph Valentino and Mae Murray. The film is good entertainment but one
looks for a little more acting, especially on the part of Valentino who, as the
lover, really fails to impress

1899

A most disastrous fire broke out in the vicinity of Dullingham. Mr Bye, the foreman
of Hill Farm, had alighted from the train at Dullingham station when his attention
was called to a fire in the stackyard of his employer. he at once gave the alarm.
With praiseworthy speed Mr Chittock, the Dullingham stationmaster, and by his
direction, his staff also, arrived and assisted to remove 14 horses, 25 cows, pigs
and other animals to a place of safety. Special mention is due of the hearty manner
in which the farm hands and the station staff worked,

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 16 August

1974

Many shops in Mid Anglia are trying to beat the sugar shortage by selling
specially-imported supplies, and customers are eager to buy the new stocks although
they are having to pay 20p a kilo (almost 2¼ lb). British produced sugar has been
selling at about 11½p for 2 lb. At Royston two main supermarkets have been hit by
the sugar shortage. The Spar stores in High St, Hemingford Grey had imported sugar
at the weekend and demand was so great they sold out by Saturday evening. Two
Haverhill supermarkets have no supplies of sugar this week.

1949

A small boy went into a sweet shop in Cambridge yesterday, carefully chose some
chocolate, but when asked for his ration book looked dumbfounded and said: “Do you
need that?”. He was one of the few who did not realise that sweets became rationed
again from Sunday. But despite the fact that others did remember they would need
their ration books and a number of people have not had a sweet since the days of
de-rationing, there appears to have been no rush to spend coupons

1924

There has been quite a fluttering in the political dovecotes at the nomination of a
lady as Mayor of Cambridge. There are some anti-feminists who cannot bear the idea
of a woman taking any prominent part in public life. It has been suggested that if
the Liberals were determined to have a woman Mayor they should have chosen Mrs
Keynes, but one can imagine the outcry if an attempt had been made to bring her
back to the Council by way of the Mayoral chair

1899
A petition was present to Newmarket magistrates praying they take steps to prevent
children from being served with alcoholic drinks at public houses. Children in
large numbers are regularly sent to licenced houses for the purpose of purchasing
drinks for consumption off the premises and become accustomed to seeing sights that
would othrwise be most revolting and to hearing language most foul. Children thus
form the habit of drinking on the way, and many of them contract an almost
ineradicable love for the drink, which eventually leads to their becoming a burden
upon the ratepayers, inmates of our gaols, or the most degraded upon the street.
TUESDAY 17th August

1974

Some publicity pictures are a real hang up. But one sent out by Cambridge folk
group, Spriguns of Tolgus, is a fake (showing the group at Cxton Gibbet). The
group’s bass Mike Morton read that the last public hanging at Caxton gibbet was in
the 1750s. He naturally wanted to put the record straight. “The last public hanging
at Caxton occurred on 6th August 1974”. The victim was the group’s new drummer, Rod
Moore. Mandy Morton is cringing and Chris Russon reads an ancient paper in the
photo they commissioned. They reckon the scene is connected with one of their
traditional folk numbers, about William Corder, hanged in Bury for the murder of
Maria Martin

1949

This year sees the Golden Jubilee of the Newmarket Co-operative Society, with a
membership of 5614. compared with 200 when the first managing committee opened its
very first store in Market Street on March 18th 1899. Within a short time the
Society was “made” and new premises erected on the other side of the town. Sugar
was 1 ¾ d a pound and madam could purchase the very latest line in corsets for
1s.11½ . Now, 50 years later, the premises have spread to form the familiar “Co-op
corners” in All Saints road where annual sales amounting to over £¼ mill. are
transacted

1924

Here is a piece of information that will interest those of an inquiring turn of

mind. The Cambridge Public Free Library is now on the telephone and the Borough
Librarian, Mr W.A. Fenton invites inquiries by 'phone on any subject. The idea is
to place the whole resources of the library at the disposal of any person seeking
information by phone - in fact to set up an Information Bureau

1899
The police of Cambridge borough have taken up in good earnest the work of their own
athletic training. There is no class of men who have more need to be sound of wind
and limb than policemen. They showed at their athletic meeting how well they could
run which may stand them in ecellent stead when they are in full chase of a
fugitive burglar. Some knowledge of self defence would oftentimes be of service but
to suggest that policemen learn to box or fence is not to suggest these should
feature in next years' sports. They have done very well in making themselves fit
for the arduous and most valuable services which they rended to the public

WEDNESDAY 18th August

1974

Some one in Haddenham was displeased when the parish council decided to reallocate
allotments to local gardeners. So they decided to get their own back, says the
parish council clerk, by planting his prize garden full of weeds – giant bindweed,
nettles, twitch grass and willow herb. “I would have given anyone a pound for any
weed they found in my garden, now I’ve dug eight or nine pailfuls of weed roots up
from all over it” , Mr Charles Bester said. They had been cut into three inch root
lengths, and dug in with a long-tined fork and the top soil carefully replaced. He
found the weeds when digging in some fertiliser. And that’s not all he found. By
way of some small recompense he dug up a George I farthing, a William III farthing
and a 1963 sixpence.

1949

A Cambridge Cebtaur motor cycle club rider, B.G. Stonebridge, took most of the
honours at a scramble organised at the Old Bank, Littleport. The meeting proved
another big success and attracted 3,000 visitors. Much amusement was provided in
the Vintage Machine race by the 25-year-old Scott machine, ridden by J.H. Diver,
which careered round the course with large volumes of steam issuing from its
radiator

1924

A new telephone call office has been opened at Bartlow. The fee for the use of the
call office, including communication with any exchange within a radius of five
miles will be 2d. and it will be possible to communicate with any exchange in the
United Kingdom upon payment of the call office fee, plus the appropriate trunk fee.
For instance the total cost for a three minutes' conversation with a subscriber at
Cambridge will be 6d and at London 1s.8d.

1899
Bottisham brewer sessions was told that an Inspector under the Food and Drugs Act
applied to purchase a sample of whisky at the Swan, Quy, for analysis, but could
not obtain it, as there was not a pint in the house. In February he applied again,
but could obtain neither whisky nor gin as there was again less than a pint in the
house. One sample of whisky, one of gin and five of beer had been obtained during
the year, all of which had been certified by the analyist to be genuine

THURSDAY 19th August

1974

Two Cambridge honeymoon couples are among the thousands of people hit by the
collapse of the Court Line Holiday Group. One couple, due to be married at Girton,
paid £190 for their honeymoon on Lake Como in Italy. Another couple who were due to
be married this afternoon have had to make last-minute changes to their plans. They
were due to fly out from Luton for a holiday in Ibiza for which they paid £133

1949

When Mr W. Tomlinson (manager of W.H. Smith’s St Ives branch) persuaded his

superiors to open a branch in the Hemingfords, little did he know he was soon to
open a shop, unique in the whole of the Smiths organisation in as much as it it is
their only shop with a thatched roof. For many years it was the village bakery,
owned by Mr George Darlow. When he retired 10 years ago the shop as such fell into
disuse, and now with a coat of bright green paint on the exterior, and books where
once the loaves and flour stood, this little shop has come back again with a new
lease of life.

1924

Robert Fuller told Newmarket court that he was an agricultural labourer. He was
working with James Jaggard on the Ness road, Burwell for the County Council when
defendant rode up on his pedal bicycle and called them two lazy devils. He replied
"If I am lazy, you must be lazy as well" whereupon defendant threw his bicycle on
the ground and struck him. Defendant said he was sitting in his front room having
breakfast when he saw these two men on the road doing nothing. He told them "you
are wasting the ratepayers money. I could do more after tea that you are doing". He
was a substantial farmer and annoyed to see the men wasting their time. When he
though Fuller was going to strike him with a shovel he struck to protect himself.
He was fined £1

1899

Sir - For the past two years I have been cultivating a piece of land at Burwell and
selling the produce, which consists chiefly of vegetables, at Cambridge. One piece
of this land is in the fen, and one piece is high land. The solicitor for the
University claimed tithe rent for the land in the fen. I have proved the piece of
land which was under water for years previous to the time of my father and others
who drained it, was not titheable. I was tried at the County Court by the
Registrar, who refused to hear my witness, the oldest man in Burwell, who could
give evidence as the the history of this matter. Now the bailiff has taken about
£20 worth of oats and potatoes for a claim of £2 0s 10d from the piece of land I
offered to pay tithe on. Where is justice in this case, after the paying of
parson's heavy tithe rent? - Joseph Manning

FRIDAY 20th August

1974

The decision to close down the Tracked Hovercraft site at Earith was regrettable,
the Hunts MP, Sir David Renton, said. A White Paper yesterday announced the
closure. The scheme was axed in February last year because the then Conservative
Government would not put in £4 million needed for the second phase on the grounds
that there was no customer for it. Most of the 142 staff were made redundant at
once. A few were kept on to tidy up THL’s operations in Cambridge and Earith.

1949

Cambridge’s “flying housewife”, Mrs Richarda Morrow-Tait, was resting following her
arrival at Croydon last night on completion of her round the world flight, claimed
to be the first to be made by a woman. She landed in England 366 days after she had
set out from Marshall’s airport where she learned her flying. She took off in a
single-engined Proctor which was damaged in a forced landing and was replaced by a
Vultee Valiant.

1924
A dispute over the sale of a grocer's and baker's business at Duxford led to a long
hearing at Cambridge County Court. Albert Andrews, The Stores, Duxford said he had
had the business for six years, and desired to get rid of it, on the ground of ill-
health. Defendant looked over the premises and offered him £175 for the stock and
goodwill. His furniture came to the house and defendant used to come into the shop,
but did not say he was dissatisfied with anything. On June 4th defendant had sent a
letter and refused to complete the purchase as there was no permanent right of way
to get to the back of the house and the warehouse.

1899

Sir - Cannot something be done before October to secure for the shop assistants of
this town a weekly half-holiday all the year round? There are very few towns in
which this boon is denied and surely Cambridge need not be so behind in this
important aspect of social life. Most people agree that a weekly half-holiday is a
necessity. What is to be done to obtain it for Cambridge. If you will kindly open
your columns expressions of opinion from those interested will perhaps lead to a
happy solution - Granta

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 23rd August

1974

The first council tenants have moved into the luxury homes bought by Huntingdon
district council in a controversial bid to beat the housing shortage. Three
families have moved into the £11,000 privately-built houses on Whitecross estate
off Ramsey Road. The 26 house owners already on the estate have been protesting
against the scheme ever since it was announced four months ago. A four-bedroomed
house will cost £10 a week rent. On the other side of the road owner-occupiers are
paying £17 a week mortgages.

1949

A well-known figure at Hardwick is sprightly bright-eyed 82-years-old Joseph

Kester, and his tricycle – or they were, for a sad thing happened on July 15th – Mr
Kester and his tricycle parted company. The machine was damaged in a road accident
and he now has to make all his travels on foot. It was an indignant and vigorous Mr
Kester who appeared at Caxton petty sessions to give evidence in a case in which a
commercial traveller was summoned for driving without due care and attention

1924
Much interest centred in the band concert and sports meeting held on the Vinery
Road Recreation Ground, Romsey Town, Cambridge. The band contest attracted five
entries – March Railway Silver Prize Band, Manea Silver Prize Band, Royston Town
S.P.B., Soham Comrades’ S.P.B. and Letchworth Town S.P.B. There were two contests,
a march selection, won by Royston, and a test piece when only four points separated
the last three bands, the winners being Soham.

1899
‘The General is coming’ is the announcement that has been placarded all over
Waterbeach for some weeks past. There was no need to ask who the General was, for
accompanying the announcement was a portrait of the famous General Booth. Sunday
was the day of the visit & it was a great day that will be remembered not only by
Salvationists, but by members of other religious bodies who willingly paid a modest
fee for the privilege of sitting on a hard form for an hour and a half and
listening to a discourse from a man who has influenced so many thousands.

TUESDAY 24th August

1974

For the first time Cambridgeshire primary schools are to have direct representation
by parents and teachers on their governing bodies. For county primary schools in
the city it will be the first time that they will have had managing boards at all.
Previously a sub-committee of the former Cambridge education committee have had
delegated powers for these schools, but with local government reorganisation they
are to be brought into line with the rest of the county

1949

You can’t hold up the fish in hot weather observed a solicitor defending in a
speeding case at Newmarket. His client pleaded guilty to exceeding the 20 mph speed
limit with a heavy motor vehicle. He explained that the defendant was specially
trained to drive heavy fish delivery vehicles and that in such a job speed was
essential, particularly in hot weather. He exceeded the limit on a downhill stretch
of the road. The vehicle was fully laden. Fined £1

1924
Sir – Last night on leaving the Theatre I came up Corn Exchange Street & Guildhall
street. There was not a street lamp alight. Park Terrace, admittedly a narrow and
fairly dangerous corner was worse than being in a wood in the country. Many of the
by-street lamps are not lit at all. It gets dark now soon after 8.30. Have we to be
in by then? Cambridge is being advertised as a holiday centre. Do people on holiday
have to be in by 9 o’clock, and not go to any place of amusement – ‘One who is some
time out after dark’

1899
Albert Hart applied for a licence for ‘The Sirdar’, Market St, Cambridge. The place
had been largely patronised but he laboured under a disadvantage of not being able
to provide his customers with spirits or beers. The fashion of drinking wine in the
middle of the day had been discountenanced for many years past by doctors and
everybody that went to a place for lunch required spirits or soda water. He had to
send out for such drinks to some public house in the vicinity. The money had to be
extracted from the customer who had to wait until his refreshments were brought to
him through the street. That was not an advantage to the liquor itself, especially
with the dust flying about and the intense heat of the sun.
WEDNESDAY 25th August

1974

A convoy of lorries carrying 50 one-ton bombs to an American air base were diverted
on to the half-built Newmarket by-pass last night when some of the loads were found
to have shifted dangerously. Explosive experts examined the bombs for damage before
they were reloaded by a crane brought from USAF Lakenheath. The scare lasted for
five hours and involved dozens of firemen, police and American military personnel.
An atmosphere of secrecy surrounded the incident from its beginning near the
railway crossing on the A11 at Six Mile Bottom. Military explosive shipments are on
Cambridgeshire roads every day without police escort, and without information being
given to the fire service.

1949

When you run over a policeman’s toes with your bicycle, he is liable to take more
than a passing interest in the way you way you ride your machine… and to become
downright concerned if, as you dismount, he notices that your walk is unsteady! PC
Ridd of Moulton followed that theory exactly when a Wood Ditton man ran over his
toes in Newmarket high street. The man had difficulty in parking his bicycle by the
kerb and was unsteady in his walk. A passer-by offered to take him to the police
station in his car, but on the way the man struggled and put his arm through one of
the celluloid windows. Fined £1 for being drunk in charge of a bicycle

1924

Cambridge building trade operatives decided to return to work tomorrow. Their

grievance was that Cambridge should be graded as a 1s. 6d. town and not 1s. 5d.
They viewed with dissatisfaction the result of the settlement of the national
building trades dispute as it affects Cambridge and are returning to work only
under protest and in expectation for regrading to be considered in a sympathetic
manner

1899
A Toft carter was summoned at Caxton court. PC Marshall said he saw the defendant
in charge of a waggon and two horses. He appeared to be asleep. He rang his bicycle
bell with no effect and then hollowed at defendant, who jumped up and rubbed his
eyes. He was told to get off the waggon and walk and did so. The reins were thrown
round the whip, which was placed in the whip socket. Defendant was not taking hold
of the reins. Fined 10s.

THURSDAY 26th August

1974

Protesting housewives and placard-carrying teenagers forced a Haverhill market

trader to stop selling sugar for 20p for a 2lb bag. Housewives returning from
supermarkets with the same sugar sold at 11p but one bag per customer started to
accuse the trader of profiteering. After trying to sell his sugar unsuccessfully
for nearly two hours he put the packets under the counter. He said: “I only brought
it because the public want it. I’m only making 25p in the pound.”

1949

There was an atmosphere of spontaneous gaiety at the birthday celebrations of the

Central Cinema, Hobson st, Cambridge. The highlight of the evening was the personal
appearance on the stage of Mrs Morrow-Tait, immediately after the newsreel showing
her arrival in this country following her round-the-world air journey.

1924
Mr S.A. Barfield, town crier of Billericay, Essex, has resigned and has been
presented with the bell he used for 40 years. A disconsolate resident once offered,
through him, a pork pie for the safe return of “a fair-haired girl about 30”.
Another notice he was asked to cry read: “Lost, strayed, or run away: a short stout
woman, supposed to have run away with the lodger. Anyone who finds her and brings
her back will be well rewarded for their trouble”

1899
A serious attempt has been made to ascertain why agricultural labourers are
becoming so scarce and while they are still boys take their flight to the town.
Young people find the country dull. Travel is easy in these days and Hodge is not
so ill off that he cannot make one of an excursion party to town and gaze in wonder
and admiration upon its sights and to become so infected with its eager, eventful
life that he can never be quite happy in the country again. But in spite of crowded
streets and gaily lighted music halls, the farm worker would not leave the farm
were it not that the town offers him much better wages. English agricultural
labourers are not the most intelligent class in the community, but they are not
fools. They would be fools if an opportunity offer them of doubling their weekly
pittance of ten or twelve shillings and they did not seize it

FRIDAY 27th August

1974

Children on their own are banned from buying sugar in Lipton’s Huntingdon
supermarket because the manager says they are running a high price black-market.
Others have taken action because mothers are sending in their children to beat the
2lb a family rationing by shops. In all towns in the area the story of the sugar
stampede is the same : as soon as it appears in the shops it is snapped up. The
manager of Civil’s supermarket in St Ives said they were having to ration to make
sure a steady flow was kept. In Cambridge sugar was not available at most
supermarkets but Arbury Discount had enough for every customer to be allowed one
bag.

1949
In the glorious sunshine which has marked most open-air functions this year,
members of the Trumpington Friendship Club (“over-sixties”) held their first garden
party in the lovely garden of 14 Bentley Road. More than 90 of the club’s 120
members attended including the oldest member, 93-years-old Mrs Seymour. Membership
includes residents, both of the village and the new estate, and many have never
missed a single meeting since the club was opened 18 months ago

1924
The Ely Urban District surveyor reported he was called by Atkin, the sewerman, who
said that the flap at the sewage works had been let down by boys and that the whole
of the town sewage was being held up along the low level. It was impossible to open
the flap against the water and he had an opening or grip cut across the river bank
from the main sewers in the grass yard, to let the water escape into the river.
There were four inches of sewage and water in the bottom rooms of some of the
houses. He also reported that the conveniences on the market place were completed
satisfactorily and the keys were in his possession

1899
The popular novelist and long-distance runner, Mr Max Pemberton, told some amusing
stories of his undergraduate days at Cambridge. “I was studying quietly in my
rooms, as a young man should, when the door burst open and my friend, a Varsity
sprinter, rushed in. ‘Just dome two and a half miles’, he gasped. ‘Bulldog’s down
there on the doorstep!’ There was the unfortunate man, hat gone, collar gone – the
picture of misery. He talked to us for some time in most impolite language, and
then we fixed him up with a sovereign and sent him away”

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 30th August

1974

A former patient at Addenbrooke’s hospital, Cambridge, who has invented a machine

to aid victims of speech paralysis presented the hospital with the first production
model. Called a lightwriter it uses an electronic typewriter keyboard and display
screen to give the power of rapid communication. The inventor, Mr Toby Churchill,
was himself paralysed when he contracted a neurological illness. Left dumb he
gathered a team of specialists and between them the produced the prototype. The
lightwriter will sell at £450.

1949
A fashion parade is always an attraction for the fair sex, and no doubt some will
consider the series of fashion parades being staged each evening by Messrs Joshua
Taylor and Messrs Mitcham ltd to be amongst the most outstanding events. A special
team of Younger Set and Junior Miss models are visiting Cambridge. My lady will
also be able to see the latest styles in hairdressing, which are being demonstrated
by Messrs J. A. Easton ltd.

1924
Concerning the parking of motor cars on Ely Market Hill at night the police have no
objection provided no obstruction was caused. On rare occasions a large lorry or
two came into the town late at night and was placed by the side of the Corn
Exchange. They always left early next morning. In the case of all cars and other
vehicles left on the hill, which were likely to be a danger to pedestrians the
drivers were requested to move them at once.

1899
Arthur Savage of the De Freville Supply Stores at the corner of Humberstone road
and Cam road. Cambridge . applied for a full licence. The premises were situated in
the middle of a new neighbourhood & owned by the Star Brewery. Richard Reynolds
Rowe, architect, prepared the plans of the house which was substantially built and
at the present time would cost about £800 to build. The Old Spring was the nearest
public house in one direction and The Bowling Green 702 yards by way of the
churchyard. Very few houses on the estate had cellars suitable for storing beer
TUESDAY 31st August

1974

Between 400 and 500 people attended the funeral in St Neots of a Romany, Mr James
Lee, aged 71. The funeral, one of the biggest for several years, was attended by
scores of Romany families, some from Scotland and Ireland. Four wagons carried more
than 200 wreaths & the graveyard was decorated with flowers in the traditional
Romany fashion. Mr Lee’s caravan, in which he had lived for many years, was burned
in the traditional Romany way at Gt Paxton earlier in the week. Mr Lee, a horse and
general dealer had lived in the area for 30 years.

1949

Mrs Richarda Morrow-Tait's famous round-the-world flight is now complete to the

very last mile. Yesterday she flew "New Thursday's Child", the plane in which she
completed her journey on August 19th, from Croydon airport to Marshall's aerodrome,
the place where she set off on her mission just over a year ago. Flying alone, she
got a particular thrill out of wearing a normal dress for the trip instead of the
flying kit to which she had become accustomed

1924

Haddenham was full of excitement when a crowd of about 250 residents turned out and
resented the appearance of an auctioneer who had come to conduct a sale under
duress for Ouse Drainage Board rates. The auctioneer made preparations to commence
the sale. Then things began to get lively, and ancient eggs made their appearance
and amid roars of laughter the auctioneer stood like a hero spattered with yolks of
many hues. They came from all directions and showered all over him. Through all the
auctioneer tried to carry on. There was a plentiful supply of “ammunition and many
of the eggs made their mark on people who did not expect them

1899

The annual meeting of the Cambridge Bus Company was told they had taken £500 more
than last year, and £400 more in 1d. fares. Shareholders must bear in mind that the
year before they had a loss of £1,563 of which about £1,100 was due to losses in
consequence of accidents. All must admit that the Company had gained more of the
confidence of the public, and the natural outcome would be increased prosperity in
the future

WEDNESDAY 1st September

1974

Rain delayed and upset the programme of events at the Burma Star Day at Waterbeach
barracks. The air and ground display spectacular, which attracted thousands of
people, was threatened by a heavy downpour. The show is recognised as one of the
largest of its kind in Britain and is probably the only one combining service and
civilian, air and ground activities
1949

Celebrating his 102nd birthday Mr Josepher Kester, formerly of Hardwick, and now
living at Chesterton Hospital said he felt nothing like his age. This grand old
man, who doctors say is the healthiest man in the hospital and certainly has the
strongest heart, is usually the most active of the patients. He is ever cheerful,
always enjoys a good joke and laugh, and was most amused by some of the comic
postcards he received. He was fully employed as an agricultural labourer till he
was 86. He did not give up working entirely then but continued to do odd jobs till
be was 97. He lived at Hardwick till he was 100

1924
The Medical Officer told Newmarket rural council that numerous wells at Soham had
been found to be polluted with sewage and unfit for drinking purposes. “At present
I have a list of 41 wells all of which have been condemned. As long as these wells
are available to the public they will be considered as a potential source of
danger. If the council take no action they are accepting a grave responsibility as
any may be the starting point of an extensive epidemic of water-borne diseases”

1899
A case of considerable interest to anglers was whether the Lark Preservation and
Angling Society had the power to prevent non-members from angling in preserved
waters. As far back as 1698 the Lark was a navigable river and rights of fishing
held by the persons owning the land on the sides of the river. He was under the
impression that fishing was free from the town path. Although the public had fished
the waters free for many years that fact did not constitute a right. The Bench was
perfectly clear that defendant had no right to fish without a ticket from the
society

THURSDAY 2nd September

1974

James Webb is a well-know figure in the St Neots area, but is isn't an easy man to
find at any one time, for his traditional craft of knife-sharpening takes him to
all corners of Bedfordshire and Huntingdonshire. With his broad-brimmed hat and
weather-beaten face 47-year-old Romany Mr Webb and his cycle-driven grindstone has
been a familiar sight in the streets of local towns and villages for 40 years since
he first travelled with his father learning the craft of giving a keen edge to
steel. Children love to stand and stare as he unloads the grinder from his van an
begins to send a stream of sparks from a pair of garden shears or a knife

1949

An author once remarked that Cambridge was unique for the manner in which its
population parked their countless bicycles - "Cambridge wise" he called it, thereby
implying that local inhabitants adopted an air of supreme nonchalance, when, with a
careless flick of the foot, they balance their machines on the edge of the
pavement, suspended on one pedal - and not much of that. Our reporter saw two cycle
accidents within five minutes. In one case a cycle fell against a double-decker bus
as it passed, and in the other, a machine toppled over when there was nothing near
it. In both cases the cycles were damaged. In order to reduce kerb parking to a
minimum, the council is endeavouring to provide all possible facilities for cycle
parking clear off the highways
1924
A notable Newmarket figure has passed away. Mr Robert Rodrigo served an
apprenticeship in the stable of the late Mr Tom Jennings and about 1870 became a
trainer at Middleton Cottage with a string of sixteen racehorses. He became the
Newmarket correspondent of “The Sportsman”, “The Sporting Life” and “The Sporting
Chronicle”. He was a sound judge of horses and of men & his turf career was as
successful as it was honourable

1899

Complainant told Arrington court that on the evening in question she was going down
the road at Gt Eversden with a basket of clean linen when defendant remarked “Did
you tell Frank Nixon you old - - that I stole his greengages”. She then came out to
her, spat in her face, took hold of her hair, scratched her face and made use of
vulgar language. Complainant went to a shop and left the clothes and on her way
back home defendant hooted her all up the road

FRIDAY 3rd September

1974

Cambs Drugs Squad have dug up 30 cannabis plants from back gardens at Cambridge and
Littleport since they made their appeal in last Saturday's News, to the public to
keep an eye open for "pot" planters in their neighbourhood. The head of the squad
said: "In the case of the plants we have no doubt they were planted in all
innocence"

1949

For over 10 years the inside of the Cambridge Guildhall organ has remained almost
untouched, except for a few occasional minor adjustments, but now for the first
time since the Guildhall was rebuilt in 1938 it is having a really good overhaul
and cleaning. Six weeks has already passed since the day two skilled local
craftsmen, Mr Walter Hall and his son, first started on their great task, which is
expected to take at least another week. To the layman this may seem a very long
time to take in cleaning it, but those who know anything at all about organs will
realise the amount of work that is actually involved. Already four buckets of dust
has been removed along with various items hardly associated with the interior of an
organ

1924
Under the auspices of the Haverhill Motor Ambulance Fund provision has been made
for removal of patients to Addenbrooke’s Hospital by means of a motor lorry that
has been adapted as an ambulance, this having been equipped with a stretcher
secured in position by springs. Circumstances have arisen that have made it
impossible to for this arrangement to be continued. There were two alternatives,
the purchase of a new ambulance at a cost of £160 or the possibility that one might
be obtained on loan from the Home Service Ambulance organisation.

1899
All Cambridge was moved to the heart yesterday morning on learning of the ghastly
details of a barbarous attack upon an old man and the subsequent suicide by
drowning of the victim’s assailant. Were it but gifted with the power of speech,
the Cam could doubtless reveal many an awful tragedy, but we venture to think that
never has a more cowardly and barbarous act have been perpetrated on the banks of
the river than that which was committed late on Saturday night. A representative of
the CDN made a minute examination of the scene which presented a horrible spectacle
and left no doubt that a violent struggle took place.
LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 6 September

1974
The leader of a Buddhist sect, based at Shudy Camps returned after a month’s
absence to find himself locked out of the house he set up as a temple. The door was
padlocked and barricaded. The sect leader, former London bricklayer who became
known as the Rev Nagaboshi Tomio, said that shrines had been stacked away,
religious paintings on the walls whitewashed over, the house was decorated and a
family were living there. He founded the Kongoru-Ji meditation centre in the old
Three Horseshoes public house last October

1949

Sir - None of our streets in Cambridge is wide enough to allow vehicles to be

parked all down one side, as they do now. Petty Cury, on a Saturday especially, is
almost a death-trap. The pavements are not wide enough for people to walk more than
two abreast; therefore they walk on the road, thus giving bus drivers in particular
a nightmare. This could be relieved to a certain extent if there were no vehicles
parked all down one side. I suggest a big improvement would be the abolishing of
all street parking and a municipal car park made on Midsummer common – Frederick
Prior

1924

In accordance with the age-old custom the Fair of Stourbridge was official
proclaimed by the Mayor. Also in accordance with custom, within recent years at any
rate, there was no outward signs of a fair. The spectators consisted of little
knots of “idle persons” but far from being ordered to depart their presence was
encouraged by showers of golden-coloured coins thrown by the Mayor

1899

Sir – Swavesey has a fire engine which today after a few years of peaceful repose,
with a great ceremony and clatter, but with no wild haste, was taken to the scene
of a fire. By almost superhuman efforts it was placed in position by a pond and
then hose and suction pipes were attached. One gallant fireman in a white hat
screwed on the nozzle, the pumps were manned but sad to say all that this parish
relic of antiquity pumped was air. In vain the white-hatted hero pointed his nozzle
and scorched his clothes. The fire burned on merrily while the engine stood useless
by the pond – “Q”

TUESDAY 7th September

1974

Budge Brothers the Basildon-based builders who were developing a 145 house estate
at Sawston, have gone into liquidation. The Sawston site and another 18 acres of
land at Homefields, Histon, could provide more than 400 badly-needed new council
homes. But the company’s liquidation means that all their assets, including these
two sites, are frozen. Houses on the Sawston site are well underway but building
work stopped as long ago as February
1949

The Cambridgeshire rowing association held their annual regatta on Saturday over
the new course from the middle of the Long Reach to the Pike and Eel. A good crowd
of rowing enthusiasts with their friends took advantage of chairs on the lawns of
the Pike and Eel and enjoyed in comfort a good afternoon’s racing. There can be
little doubt that the finish at the Pike has come to stay, for few of the
spectators will lightly forgive the CRA if they ever again return to the discomfort
of a finish at the Railway Bridge.

1924
Mr Ernest Gates, whose munificent gift of £33,000 to complete the endowment of a
School of Pathology at Cambridge University was announced last week, is one of the
magnates of the Yorkshire wool industry, who do big things in a big way and employ
their ample financial resources lavishly for beneficial purposes. His only son is
now at Corpus Christi college.

1899

An outing of the Cambridge Licensed Victualler’s Association drove to Clayhithe in

a brake. The toll bridge was left in charge of a boy, who partly opened the gate
leading to the Bridge restaurant and then suddenly closed it again. The horse had
already begun walking down the incline and smashed into the closing gate. The
animals were thrown down, some of the harness and a lamp were smashed & and the
occupants with all possible haste jumped out of the vehicle. Happily no one was
injured but the juvenile keeper of the bridge was reprimanded.

WEDNESDAY 8th September

1974

Thaxted residents are laughing during power cuts. When the electricity supply goes
off the 28 gas lamps, which the village still retains, keep burning. The man who
keeps the lamps alight, 71-year-old Mr Fred Johnson, a lively pensioner who has
been looking after the gas lights for the parish council for six years can remember
the time when gas street lighting – installed there in the middle of the last
century – was practically universal. “But now, so far as I know the gas lamps in
Thaxted are the only ones in the area”

1949

Mitcham’s are showing their customary utility range, combining moderate price with
fashionable cut. I was glad to see the three-piece, consisting of suit and full-
length coat, which at 36 coupons a time was ousted by the war is back again. It was
pleasant too, to see that velveteens, now in the non-taxed group, are cheaper. An
eye-catching suit in a gay green was reasonably priced at£8 4s. 11d.

1924

My fiancée said she would like a photograph of me. I was shown into a room that
appeared to be an artist’s studio and the artist himself appeared and produced a
camera from somewhere. The man had the effrontery to treat his business as though
it were an art. He shifted a blind or two in the glass roof, put a few deft folds
into a velvet curtain at one side of me and returned to his instrument. I was about
to adjust my features to the desired expression when I heard something click. I
looked up and saw the idiot had actually exposed a plate.
1899

At the Chesterton urban council it was agreed to levy a rate of 1s 8d in the £,

about 2d higher than that of Cambridge. This has a very important bearing on the
objection which they have made to becoming part of the borough. When rates are as
high as they are in Cambridge there remains no single reason why Chesterton should
remain outside the borough. This is a civil marriage that promises many benefits
for both sides.

THURSDAY 9th September

1974

Gail force winds swept through Mid-Anglia uprooting more than 100 trees, blocking
roads and tearing down electricity power cables. At Grantchester the elm standing
in front of the Green man public house, believed to be more than 500 years old, was
split in two by the wind. A piece of Huntingdon history fell to the winds on
Lattenbury hill, Godmanchester, when a tree broke in half. It is said to have
connections with the Highwayman Duck Turpin

1949

Sir - As a University town we possess many treasures and I would like the see the
authorities take an interest in visitors by carrying out the following suggestions.
Erect an information bureau at the railway station and another in the town centre
(convert part of the Guildhall into a shop front). At each provide maps, and have
information available on subjects the visitor may need. Have guides available to
conduct tours according to the time available. There appears to be no reason why
organised tours should not last up to a week and be advertised in conjunction with
the various transport organisations. In adopting these suggestions it would bring
many more visitors to the town and in consequence more trade – “Optimist”

1924
This week sees the close of the variety season at the New Theatre. There have been
some good shows, which have been justly popular. In fact the varieties, as a whole,
have proved so attractive to Cambridge people that many have expressed a desire to
have the season extended for another two or three weeks. A great comedian is Will
Fyffe. To hear this star of the Alhambra and Palladium is to be reduced to a state
of collapse by the laughter his wit produces. He is a comedian with a future – and
a Scotsman at that.

1899

Looking over the catalogue of the Cambridge public library we were struck with the
care exercised in obtaining and preserving copies of every publication of local
bearing, even down to the most occasional leaflets. This is as it should be. It may
well be that there are documents lying in inaccessible places what contain
information for which even now students of local history are searching in vain. Why
should these not be deposited in the public library, accessible to those who desire
to make use of them?

FRIDAY 10th September

1974

Anglian Water Authority have asked Souths Cambs district council to refuse
permission for any new development and severely restrict building in a further 19
because of the overloading of the sewage treatment works., Milton, whose drains
lead into the Cambridge works has suffered from a d development embargo for the
last four years. It is now joined by Shelford, Girton, Histon and Fen Ditton where
a complete ban on development is requested. At Over, Gamlingay and Bassingbourn
permission will only be given to one-building application. All of these sewage
works have been badly overloaded for some time but the cuts in public spending have
prevented AWA from going ahead with extension schemes

1949

Sir - What I would like to see in post-war Cambridge is the removal of the car park
on the Market Square and in its place a small restful garden, with the fountain
cleaned and kept running with clear water as its centre-piece. A few seats
conveniently placed would add to its charm, for here grandpa could peacefully smoke
his pipe whilst grandma did the shopping, and maybe a mother could keep one eye on
her children left watching the fountain and feeding the pigeons, as she did the
rounds of the market stalls – “Garden lover”

1924

At a meeting of the Hornchurch parish council a communication from the Air Ministry
was laid seeking permission to divert certain footpaths which cross the site they
have acquired for the erection of a large aerodrome capable of accommodating at
least 500 aeroplanes. The aerodrome, midway between London & the East Coast is to
be part of a scheme for the aerial defence of London. During the war the site was
used as a temporary aerodrome and pilots stationed there brought down the first
four Zeppelins

1899

A young lady, governess at Wood Ditton rectory went to bed feeling unwell recently
and remained in a trance for 10 hours, notwithstanding efforts to arouse her. The
doctor was sent for but his efforts proved unavailing during that day. Ultimately
she was awakened by douches of cold water.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 13th September

1974

Cambridge city football club have submitted plans for a £500,000 night club at
their Milton road ground. It is planned that the 1,000-seater cabaret theatre will
be built at the Milton Road end of the ground on a site that present houses the
supporters’ club. “Modern football is in the doldrums and will never pay for itself
again”, said the chairman. If the club get the go-ahead they intend to engage
international stars and provide first-class food and drink

1949

Many of the 200 Free Poles who paraded at Cambridge war memorial for a wreath-
laying ceremony to commemorate the outbreak of the last war, were in the Police
forces which took the initial impact of the Nazi invasion of their country. The
parade was representative of ex-army, navy and air force personnel who are now
living and working in the Cambridge district. After mass at the Roman Catholic
church, they marched to the memorial where Mr B.C. De Broekere – a cavalryman at
the outbreak of war – laid a wreath.
1924

During the restoration of the ancient church of Abington Pigotts, many interesting
features have been discovered. The north door is original and bears the marks of
the bullets of the Civil War period. A dignified and well-proportioned west arch,
which has been bricked up for over two centuries, has been opened out. The tower
has almost been rebuilt to save it from collapse. The costs have been heavy and the
village consists of only three farms and 30 labourers’ cottages.

1899
Mr C. Hills and his son, whilst crossing Barton Fields, Ely, on a shooting
expedition, saw a woman lying sideways in the middle of a pond, apparently in a
helpless condition, and dragged her out. The water in the pond was scarcely two
feet deep, but being fully of slimy matter, the woman presented a sorry spectacle.
As she was exhausted, Mr Hills administered some brandy and had her conveyed to her
home

TUESDAY 14th September

1974

Patients are dying because of a stop on kidney transplants in Cambridge, the head
of the city’s transplant unit, Prof. Roy Calne said today. Operations have stopped
since he received a letter from the Cambridge coroner saying he would withdraw co-
operation in permitting the removal of organs from bodies unless relatives had
agreed. The letter follows a case in another region where organs had been removed
and the patient had begun breathing again

1949

Sir - What I would like to see in Cambridge is so simple – a “To let” sign on a
house. If only something could be done about some houses or flats for the many
young couples in Cambridge like my fiancé and myself, who in our early twenties
have now been engaged and house-seeking for well over two years. What can we do?
Not possibly buy a house which in these days would cost anything up to £2,000; or
even raise enough cash to pay the required deposit and get a loan from a building
society. If only a house or flat were forthcoming I know that we would be perfectly
happy and content with Cambridge as it is now – “Patiently waiting”

1924

Mr E.W. Edwards and a friend were walking along the Bank when suddenly he saw the
vivid reflection of the Ely fire. He remarked that it was lucky that there had been
no outbreak in Prickwillow, as there had been another fire that evening at
Chettisham. He had hardly finished his sentence when his companion turned and said,
“There is a fire in Prickwillow. Look at the blaze”. Mr Edwards would not believe
it until someone rushed up and informed him that his motor works were on fire. An
effort was made to get the motor vans out of the blazing building but it was found
impossible to open the locked double doors.

1899

The firemen on duty at Newmarket Jockey Club Owners’ and Trainers’ Fire Brigade
noticed a big glare in the vicinity of Burwell, and at once the telephone was
requisitioned to inquire at the brigade office whether a call had been received.
The engines having been got ready the men donned their uniform and fastened on
accoutrements, and then lit the lamps of the engine. But no call came. The Burwell
Fire Brigade had their first experience of a fire, for although an engine has for
some time been in the village, it is only within the past few weeks that a brigade
has been formed.

WEDNESDAY 15th September

1974

Ely hairdresser Mr Fred Dobson is still shaving customers and tending hair at the
age of 85. The family business started in 1739 and now, five generations later, is
entering its last chapter. In his museum-cum-salon in St Mary’s street hangs a
1730s print showing his great great great grandfather shaving a jolly side-boarded
customer. Mr Dobson began his barbers artistry as a lad of 7, lathering the
customers. He is famous for the bald patches recipe cure perfected through the five
generations of the business. He was also well known for his wigs.

1949

Sir - I should like to see a stop put to the continued attempts to introduce new
industries and build up Cambridge into an administrative centre. No one can deny
that the town centre is grossly overcrowded consequent upon the locust-like plague
of foreigners and civil servants that have descended during and since the war
years. Wherever the spread continues the town centre will still be the main
shopping centre and conditions will steadily deteriorate until it becomes
imperative to demolish and rebuild and so destroy the old and loved Cambridge with
its unique old-world charm, and transform it into something unattractive and
ordinary – “Simplicitas”

1924
A 14-year old Ely schoolboy was summoned for driving a one-ton motor lorry at
Wicken without having a driver’s licence (he being too young), and a lorry driver
for the American Oil Company was charged with aiding and abetting him. PC Harrison,
the Wicken constable stopped the lorry and the man replied, “I only let the boy
drive a little way. This will get me the sack”. The police considered it a
dangerous practice to allow boys to practice driving motor vehicles on the road.

1899

Wednesday marked another epoch in the history of the Ebeneezer Chapel, Cottenham –
the reopening after thorough restoration. The somewhat gloomy appearance of the
interior had been the subject of comment, now the interior is in keeping with the
bright services held in the chapel, cheerful, warm looking decorations having
replaced those of former times. In the evening the chapel was crowded in every
part.

THURSDAY 16th September

1974

St Andrew the Great church in the centre of Cambridge may be turned into a new
Civic restaurant. If the scheme goes ahead it would be only a few yards from the
site of the old restaurant which was demolished two years ago to make way for the
Lion Yard Development project. City officials are looking into the possibility of
converting the church buildings which the Diocesan authorities have classified as
redundant. A feasibility study shows it could be converted into offices but would
cost at least £135,000.

1949

Cambridge’s only thatched cottage, in Clement Place, is having its ridge renewed.
Damage by cats and birds has made this necessary. Because it wears better, reed
thatch is being used instead of straw. The work is being done by Mr J. Wilson, of
Lt Wilbraham, who used to be a stack thatcher and has been trained to thatch houses
by the Rural Industries Bureau. He is one of the few remaining thatchers in
Cambridgeshire.

1924
George Mansfield gave evidence that he started a motor service from Burwell four
years ago. He bought a new bus this year. At the Swan corner in Bottisham an Ortona
bus passed him and pulled on the bend, making him wait or go bumping over the
green. Eventually he passed by going on the path. The Ortona was in the habit of
passing him and then going very slowly in front. Defendant said Mansfield started a
bus to run in front of the Ortona and take away their customers and the firm would
not stand that.

1899
Considerable interest having been aroused by particulars of the trance at Wood
Ditton a representative of the C.D.N. made further inquiries. After the young lady
had lain for 40 hours the doctors decided to try the effect of sudden shocks. She
was taken from bed and placed across some chairs over a bath. So rigid was her body
that nothing was required to support the space between the chairs. A large can of
ice-cold water was procured and one of the doctors, standing on a chair, directed a
stream of water on to her face. The douches of water continued until she had
apparently been fully aroused.

FRIDAY 17th September

1974

Police cars throughout Cambridgeshire have been fitted with a controversial

American speed trap. Known as VASCAR (visual average speed computer and recorder)
it enables a police offer on patrol to measure the speed of a vehicle whether he is
in front or behind the target, waiting in a side-road or even travelling in the
opposite direction. Before bringing the instrument into operation use the police
will be demonstrating the machine to the press and public

1949

Anyone passing Coldham’s common would have noticed a number of cows contentedly
grazing there but may also have been surprised to see one of them half in and half
out of the meadow, with the railings in between its fore and hind legs. The Borough
Pindar (Mr W. Clee) & RSPCA inspector Turner attempted to lift her off the
railings, but she remained there with her feet planted very firmly on the ground.
So as a last resort a blackwmith was sent for and the railings were cut to enable
her to be moved away. The Pindar commented “It’s the first time I’ve seen a cow go
off the rails”
1924

The installation of the first apple grading and packing station in Ely, which has
not been completed at Cottenham, should prove a great boon to local fruit growers.
It is rather unfortunate that the apple crop is so light this year but it is
confidently expected enough apples will be produced to give the venture a good
start. Each grower’s apples will be graded separately and the one with the largest
percentage of first grade will receive the best price. The impression that appears
to exist that all growers would receive the same price, independent of grade, is
entirely erroneous.

1899
Labourers in dispute with the master builders had served a notice asking for an
advance from 4½ d to 5d an hour. They had to end their wives out to work and leave
the children to the mercy of anybody or everybody. The extra money added to the
wage of the Cambridge labourers would enable them to keep their wives at home and
give them happiness and joy. At Newmarket labourers were paid at the rate of 5½d
per hour and were promised a halfpenny advance next summer

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 20th September

1974

Housewives in Mid-Anglia who are stripping the shops of salt were described by
shopkeepers and suppliers as mad and hysterical. The panic buying has been caused
by false rumours and there is no shortage. Supermarket managers reported selling
stocks that usually lasted three weeks in a day and a half. “This whole city has
gone crackers”, said one manager. The International Stores on Market Hill,
Cambridge, sold out during the week. At Lipton’s in Royston a delivery which
normally would have lasted all week, sold out on the same day. At St Neots the Co-
op sold out within an hour of delivery

1949

Air-minded people to the number of 9,000 visited Waterbeach RAF station for the “At
Home” day, part of the commemoration of the Battle of Britain. The station is the
base of 24 (Commonwealth) station of transport command. Making its first appearance
was a small monoplane built by F/Lt J.R. Coates, a flight engineer on the station.

1924

Much interest was evinced in the wedding which took place at St Barnabas church,
Cambridge. The bridegroom, PC Frederick Lilley is a member of the Borough Fire
Brigade. A surprise awaited the bridal pair as they came from the church. On either
side of the door were lined several firemen who with their axes formed and archway.
But the greatest surprise was to find the Dennis fire engine gaily be-ribboned
standing outside the church door. Both were hesitant to take their seats on the
engine, but showers of confetti urged them on.

1899

During August agricultural workers have been fully employed at harvest work. The
corn crops have ripened rapidly, and as they have not been laid by storms, it has
been possible to employ self-binding machines. Thus with a steady run of fine
weather the harvest has been gathered rapidly with much less manual labour than
usual. Reports from the Chesterton Union show that sufficient labour has been
secured for fruit picking, except for a short time when the raspberries were ripe.
Tuesday 21st September

1974

The opening of Cambridge’s new indoor bowls centre at Chesterton brings to a climax
many months of work by a group of bowlers who can now boast the only six-rink
indoor green in the country. Sited next to their outdoor green in Logan’s Way, the
impressive new building is the next best thing to bowling on a warm summer’s day.
Already there are 400 bowlers on the membership lists and secretary N. Harper-Scott
says there is still room for more

1949

Two important freehold properties in Grantchester were offered by auction.

“Lyndewode” sold by representatives of Ald James Nutter deceased and described as
having absorbed much of the atmosphere of Rupert Brooke’s village, was finally
knocked down for £9,650. The Orchard Tea Gardens, including a small attached
cottage with possession, did not reach the reserve price and was withdrawn

1924

Large prices were realised at the sale of the old established herd of pure-bred
dairy shorthorns bred by Mr C.R. Adeane, which was held at Babraham Hall. This
celebrated herd was established 28 years ago. The original object was the formation
of a herd of dual purpose animals, combining constitution, milk and flesh. The cows
are excellent milkers. The top price was 340 guineas, whilst another cow fetched
210 guineas. The average was a little over 81½ guineas apiece

1899

A statement headed “Treatment of inmates at the Cambridge workhouse” alleged a 45-

year-old man was put into the receiving ward by the acting porter. He was ordered
to strip and bathe himself. He was then given a child’s bed, about 2ft short and
though he was suffering from dropsy was ordered to make up his bed. He was given
four or five blankets but still complained of the cold. They could do nothing to
relieve him except give a drop of water from the bath. The man lay there until the
next morning and was removed to the infirmary where “he passed away from this world
of trouble”

WEDNESDAY 22nd September

1974

Every night while the rest of the town sleeps six St Neots men are busy practising
a deadly form of Kung Fu which can kill a man with one blow. For the last seven
months they have trained from midnight until four in the morning enduring pain and
exhaustion before going home to snatch a few hours sleep. Their Chinese instructor
works in a Bedford restaurant so the men are forced to hold the training sessions
in the early hours of the morning

1949

It is with deep regret we record the death of Mr Morley Stuart, editor of the CDN
for 31 years. On the Cambridge Independent Press being acquired by the Cambridge
Weekly News in 1912 he took over the editorship in addition to working as assistant
editor of the CDN. He used to recall how he would receive a caller who wanted to
see the editor of the CDN, and then on being called over subsequently to Llandaff
Chambers where the CIP offices were situated, he would find himself confronted by
the same caller wishing to see the editor of that paper

1924
Surely the weather in 1924 harvest has given the farmers cause to grumble, when one
sees the golden straw of the end of July now turned to what resembles old thatch.
Very much has been stacked somehow, and when thrashed it was probably “sniff a
bit”. Crops generally are above the average and prices are better, but the
gathering is so prolonged that farmers and labourers are tired to death of harvest
work. Apples are almost a failure. Pears are fair, but almost unsaleable

1899
Newmarket RDC heard that at Landwade there was a pump that had been erected by
subscription, the piping had never been properly fixed and there was now a leakage.
Complaints were made as to the indifferent water supply at Reach. There was a
spring of good water near the Delph Bridge, which by reason of its being open was
often full of tadpoles and other little animals. If a cover were put over it would
be a good source of water. The inhabitants of Kirtling obtained a great deal of
their water from a dirty pond. The water to certain homes in Soham was filled with
dead cats.

THURSDAY 23rd September

1974

Fears were expressed at a special meeting of Longstanton parish council that the
village would become a “garrison town” when the army take over the RAF Oakington in
April. The chairman said plans for 200 extra married quarters made a complete
nonsense of the village plan. They are recommending that the quarters, if built,
should be on the other side of Oakington’s airfield, adjacent to that village.
Although one member suggested the council were “passing the buck” others felt there
was “nothing wrong” with building the quarters in the next village. Oakington had
been pressing for expansion

1949

The assistant postmaster general opened Newmarket’s new automatic telephone

exchange. The post office was mindful of the fact that unlike Newmarket, which had
got only one person waiting for the telephone, there were half a million people
requiring that service. He hoped that having got its new telephone exchange it
would not be long before they also got its new post office. The exchange replaces
the one put out of action on 18th February 1941 when a German plane dropped 10 h.e.
bombs as it flew over Newmarket High Street

1924
Sidney Atkins lost some fowls from a hen house in a grass field on the Witcham
Road, Mepal. The door was locked. It appeared to have been lifted off the ground.
On the following morning PC Baker was passing the Ship Inn at Sutton, and looking
over the wall saw some pullets which corresponded with those missing. Amid much
struggling and crackling Atkins swore to each of the birds as he handed them to him
out of a hamper.

1899

An alarming fire took place at Quaker’s farm, in the fen near Lt Downham, causing
the destruction of a farmhouse and rendering the occupants homeless. Mrs Watson and
her washerwoman were just preparing to partake of luncheon when smoke was seen
issuing from the thatch near a chimney stack. Pails of water were brought into
requisition but had little or no effect. The Fire Brigade from Ely turned up, got a
plentiful supply of water from a dyke and managed to extinguish the fire. By this
time only the walls and chimney stacks of the old house – built in 1803 – were left
standing

FRIDAY 24th September

1974

Wine from an Isle of Ely vineyard at Wilburton may be on sale for the first time in
the spring. Harvesting will go ahead in four weeks time. “The crop is ripening up
very well at present”, said Mr Norman Sneesby, who works the vineyard with his
family. It is planned to sell the wine under the name of St Etheldreda. She was
founder of the monastery church at Ely whose monks produced wine in medieval times

1949

Miss Janet Hubbard of Ely, Britain’s new Railway Queen, was given a tumultuous
send-off when she left Ely railway station in preparation for her crowning at
Manchester. She was the centre of a pleasing little ceremony in the stationmaster’s
office, which was crowded with railway employees who gathered to pay their
congratulations. All felt proud that Britain’s railway queen had been chosen from
Ely. Mr H.H. Smith, stationmaster, told her “You must be the envy of some thousands
of young railway ladies in this country. I am sure Ely is most honoured, and your
mother and father must be very proud of your success”. Railway employees thronged
the platform to proclaim their best wishes.

1924
Plans for the erection of a wharf to the proposed sugar beet factory on the river
near the Queen Adelaide Bridge at Ely were agreed. A second request was to fill up
the disused Roswell Pits with the mud that settled out of the water with which the
sugar beet would be washed. Instead of useless pits they would one day have some
very good garden ground.

1899
During the tempestuous weather a hot pea stall, belonging to James Gerald, of
Wilton terrace, East Road, Cambridge, which had been erected at the corner of
Garlick Row in readiness for Stourbridge horse fair, was blown away bodily and
carried by the boisterous wind across the road on to a piece of land forty yards
away, used by Mr Robert Lee as a market garden. Another booth belonging to David
Odell was also overthrown by the storm.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

MONDAY 27TH September

1974

Early morning in Cambridge market place and indomitably breezy stallholders arrive
with bulging cardboard boxes full of paws paws, crocus bulbs, turnips, antique
Persian porcelain coins, brillo pads and all other things we need to victual our
leaky ship. Before some of them can load their trestle tables from the cardboard
boxes, they must gather up the broken and bloody hypodermic syringes, left behind
by heroin addicts overnight. Once the syringes are out of the way, the square is
soon ready for the public – Chris South
1949

A story of high-pressure work since last March under a top-secret cloak lies behind
the announcement that Pye Ltd of Cambridge will give the first successful
demonstration of colour television in this country at Radiolympia. Research into
colour television has proceeded for a long time, but it was only in March tat the
decision was made to produce the intricate equipment required. The secrecy with
which this work proceeded is indicated by the fact that Pye’s employees themselves
have not yet seen a demonstration. The firm say that colour television is still
many years off.

1924

Nowadays telephones are accepted as belonging to the general order of thing that
are, and even the proverbial small boy ceases to be curious. Businessmen
alternately regard the telephone was an infernal nuisance or an indispensable
instrument. Telephones were curiosities in 1878 when an undergraduate at Pembroke
college fixed up two between his digs in St Andrew’s street and a little
summerhouse at the bottom of the garden. These were absolutely the first seen in
Cambridge.

1899

Another of England’s picturesque country residences has been destroyed. A prettier

spot than the residence of Mr W. Hall at Six-Mile-Bottom, it would have been
difficult to find. In every way typical of an English gentleman’s home it was
regarded by pride. The house was on Saturday the scene of one of those fires which
turn a quiet rural retreat into a scene of utter desolation. The maid noticed smoke
coming out of the thatch close to the kitchen chimney. From all directions came
help but it was too late to be of any avail

TUESDAY 28th September

1974

A fourth candidate today joined the Cambridge election contest. He is Mr

Christopher Curry, a 28 year old electrical engineer who is representing the United
Democratic Party. Their platform is basically anti Common-Market. He said he had
only heard of the party at the start of the week. Nevertheless he is organising an
active campaign programme. The other three candidates were all surprised. Mr David
Lane said: “We had a Digger last time. This will make a change”.

1949

Cambridge men and women were featured in a new series broadcast in the BBC Women’s
Hour programme. A few weeks ago a mobile recording unit visited Messrs Chivers
Factory at Histon. Among those selected to describe their jobs was Miss Ruth Blows,
who has been with Chivers for over 30 years. She is employed as a “tapper” – she
tests the glass jam jars to make sure they are air-tight. The name of the firm was
not mentioned of course, because the BBC does not advertise.

1924

Sidney Stokes, gamekeeper of Pidley said he saw defendant come on the land with two
dogs. They put up a rabbit which he shot and put in his pocket. Two more rabbits
were put up, but he missed them. Defendant then looked round and saw him so he
called out “It’s no use, Tom. I know you. Witness asked him for the rabbit in his
pocket and defendant gave it him. He was fined 30s.

1899

There are some who deplore it very much that the Free Library readers should resort
so much to fiction. There can be no greater waste of time than the reading of
novels that are not worth reading. At the Central Library there were issued during
the year 67,661 volumes in the class of fiction and it must be admitted that
Cambridge might with advantage become a little more serious in its reading. At the
Mill Road branch 293 borrowers were added whereby it is made clear that the branch
supplies a very real demand.

Wednesday 29th September

1974

Bomb disposal experts removed an unexploded bomb from Manor Farm, Worlington. It
was unearthed by farmer Mr Richard Mortlock when ploughing & had probably been
lying in the ground since the Second World War. Three more small unexploded
missiles were found behind a row of council houses at Gt Bradley, near Haverhill.
Police said they were small aircraft shells, probably dropped during the war.

1949

Between 700 and 800 sheep were checked over by the Cambridge Pindar after a lorry
had run into a flock on the Shelford Rd, Trumpington. Six of the animals were
killed in the collision. The remainder were driven to the site of this year’s
Cambridgeshire show where officials made certain none was injured. The flock was
moved from one field to another early in the morning to avoid traffic.

1924
Newmarket council discussed the erection of 12 non-parlour houses in The Rows. The
Ministry would not approve them unless the fixed bath was placed in a bathroom, but
they could make one by putting a partition in the scullery. Mr Challice preferred a
brick copper to a gas one: “If a woman has a bit of rubbish she can burn it and
keep the copper boiling. A gas copper is all very well for a lady who has a
handkerchief and bit of chiffon to wash and sends the rest to Cambridge or
elsewhere. But it is not the most economical for a heavy wash”

1899

Cambridge’s Stourbridge Fair has scarcely so strong a hold on the people as it

exercised a decade ago. The vendor of hot peas, sweet stuffs, trashy toys and nut
brown ale, to say nothing of the fishmonger and other salesmen, all seem to receive
a certain amount of public patronage. The only monstrosity on view this year is a
cow with six legs. There are coconut shies, swings and shooting galleries in
plenty. At the “Oyster House” there is dancing and conviviality reigns supreme

Thursday 30th September

1974

Today sees the first issue of a talking newspaper in Cambridge. Carried on tape
cassettes it will be issued to 30 blind, elderly and infirm people and will provide
a service of news based on material appearing in the C.E.N. Pye radio provided
£1,500 worth of tape recorders to launch the project and the Vice Chancellor has
offered University recording facilities. The “Talking News” was originated by Mrs
D.M.C. Matthews of the Blantyre Home for the Blind in Glisson Rd and is now
administered by a special trust.

1949

On a cold evening in 1889, the secretaries of a dozen local cricket clubs and a few
enthusiasts met at Dan Hayward’s “The Prince Regent” in Regent St, Cambridge. Thus
was sown the seed that was to grow into the stature of the Cambridgeshire Cricket
Association. Last night, 60 years later, a gathering numbering more than 170
celebrated at a dinner at the Dorothy Café. Among them was England’s and
Cambridge’s Jack Hobbs, still ranked by many as the world’s finest batsman.

1924

When workmen arrived at a pair of council houses in the course of erection on

Cambridge road, Lt Thetford, they found there had been intruders during the night
who had helped themselves pretty freely to what they could find. Tools belonging to
Mr Robert Rayner of Stretham and Mr Cornwell of Ely were missing. A considerable
amount of timber, asbestos sheeting and other materials had been removed and a new
door displaced from its hinges and taken also.

1899

A man named Revill, residing at Odsey, was on his way to Royston, driving a pony
and trap, when he observed a rough-looking individual coming towards him. The tramp
turned towards the hedge, put himself in a shooting attitude and pointed what was
thought to be a revolver. The man in charge of the pony laid down in the trap, and
whipping up his pony drove as fast as he could to Royston. P.C. Knight was
despatched on a bicycle and came across the would-be highwayman lying on the side
of the road. The tramp gave a rambling account of himself and said he was a
solicitor practising in Chancery Lane.

Friday 31st September

1974

Fly-by-night greyhound coursing and poaching is again proving a big headache on

Cambridgeshire farms. Thos responsible always knew the police wouldn’t get the time
to tackle the problem. One farmer pointed out it was quite possible to take the
same remedies as were used in protecting sheep. Where coursing was taking place the
hares could be defended like other animals on a farm – with a gun. But the Chairman
warned that this was not advisable.

1949

A London dental surgeon was accused of leaving a bull mastiff bitch weighing 12
stone inside a car on King’s Parade on one of the hottest days of the Summer, with
all the doors and windows shut and thereby caused it extreme suffering. PC R. Tuck
said he was on duty when he was called to the car. He was compelled to force and
make entry because of the “enraged and hostile attitude” of the crowd. He opened
the door with his truncheon and it was like opening an oven. Cold water was
obtained from a nearby house and this was applied to the dog which was too heavy to
be lifted out. Defendant was fined £2
1924

Cambridge Town Football Club opened their season of dances at the Rendezvous. Full
use was made of the new lighting effects that have been installed. There were some
200 present, dancing to music provided by Mr Percy Cowell. A very popular feature
was a Paul Jones’ dance; it will be remembered that these proved popular last year
and there is no doubt that they create amusement. The organisers hope the dancing
public will give them good support and further assist the club to pay off the debt
on the Milton-road ground.

1899

A labourer of Upware was summonsed for leaving the employment of Mr J. Cornwell, a

Waterbeach farmer, without notice. Defendant had worked for him for a fortnight, he
having engaged him as a labourer. He entered witness’s employment as a weekly
servant at a wage of 12s and left without giving notice after receiving his week’s
wages. As he did not return to his work Cornwell made a journey to Upware so see
what his reason was for not coming back. He said he should not return for anything
and that witness could do as he liked in the matter. Defendant fined 1s.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 4th October

1974

The most costly new houses are so difficult to sell that some Mid-Anglia builders
have temporarily stopped constructing them. But general house sales are picking up
after a slump of two months ago, say estate agents. A £15,000 three-bedroomed
detached house built at Shelford two years ago is to be sold shortly. Hockeys Ltd
of Cambridge report that houses costing less than £10,000 were selling “extremely
well”. At Haverhill prices have dropped to a lower level. The houses that were not
shifting were in the £12 - £20,000 bracket. In Newmarket houses in the £10-14,000
price bracket were selling quite easily

1949

Magistrates at Cambridge were faced with the problem of defining whether using
petrol for towing a hare round a dog-tracing track came under the category of
driving for pleasure. P.S. Shanks said on going to a field at Milton, where dog
racing was in progress, he saw a motor lorry with the rear jacked off the ground,
and with an attachment for towing the hare round the track, fixed to a rear wheel.
At the commencement of a race, the lorry would be started up, driving the rear
wheels round, which would in turn wind in the cord to which the hare was attached.
Defendant said he had petrol for use in connection with greyhound racing and for
domestic and pleasure purposes. As far as he was concerned his pleasure came from
using the car at the race meetings. He was fined £2

1924
Violent barking by his dog around Mr John Cooke, a tailor, of Norfolk St.,
Cambridge, at an early hour in the morning, and finding his bedroom full of smoke,
he made a thrilling escape from the building. Going to the window he shouted for
help and a neighbour threw him a rope. He secured the rope to a window frame at the
back of the room and then lowered himself to the ground

1899
Cambridge cabmen’s union was told that certain ladies had volunteered to provide a
cabmen’s shelter on Peas Hill, close to St Edward’s church. The chairman hoped the
cabmen would always maintain their proper rank of respectability, and keep
themselves above suspicion of rowdyism or anything approaching to it

Tuesday 5th October

1974

A £2 million plan for converting the old Cambridge corn exchange into a multi-
purpose concert hall was accepted by the City Amenities Committee. An early warning
of stormy times ahead was given by Coun. Peter Cowell who said: “There is bound to
be a lot of opposition”. In their report the architects claim that “not only
Cambridge but England as a whole will gain a concert hall of potentially
international stature which could attract the finest musical talent”. They suggest
the reshaped building could hold up to 1500 people and would also be ideal for
events such as boxing, wrestling, operas, plays, exhibitions and conferences.

1949

The growth of the Eastern Counties Omnibus Company from the time when they had only
six buses to the present day when they have 600 was mentioned during a presentation
to Mr G. Flatman, retiring district superintendent. A lively concert was presented
by Leo Neaves, including Wendy, who certainly knows how to skip-tap; Aileen Hessey,
an attractive singer; Lacey Anderson wizard of the accordion; Sid “Uke” Daines;
Bertram the magician; and Pam’s Trio, an all-female band

1924
The 1924-5 edition of Spalding’s Directory for Cambridge shows progress has been
made with the development of various building estates and we find for the first
time the names of Hawthorn Way, Harvey Goodwin Avenue, Haig Road joining Chesterton
and Cam Road, and Coleridge Road which is the name given by Jesus college to the
new road between Cherry Hinton road and Romsey Town.

1899
The Vicar of St Michael’s church, Cambridge, spoke of the restoration of the mural
decorations executed by Mr Gilbert Scott which had become much decayed, and the
erection of the inside porch. The installation of the electric light answered very
well. He did not think it was as good to read by as gas but there was the advantage
of the easy regulation of the light and quickness in lighting the church. Instead
of having the nasty, stuffy feeling they had with gas, there was a decent
atmosphere in which one could breath

Wednesday 6th October

1974

Cambridge Co-operative Society announced that only customers spending at least 50p
on food in their shops would be allowed a 2lb packet of sugar. “To ensure that
distribution reached as many customers as possible and the minimum purchase set at
50p to avoid embarrassment to our pensioned customers with limited purchasing
power”, said a spokesman. Sainsbury’s say they were not operating any such system
although they were asking customers to restrict sugar purchases to 2lb each. A
Budget spokesman said they were limited supplies to regular customers only

1949

The reopening of the Dorothy ballroom gave a capacity crowd of 600 a preview of a
large-scale modernising scheme. A first glimpse of the ballroom’s “new look”
provides a startling contract with its former style. A striking feature of the room
is the domed ceiling which forms a background for a finely-traced pattern of gold-
rib – one of the foremost of modern decorative trends. A central feature has been
created from the orchestral stage, which accommodates a newly-formed band of ten
instrumentalists, under the direction of Reg Cottage

1924
Dr Davis made an appeal in aid of the Ely Red Cross Massage Clinic, an institution
to provide the poor with the benefits of massage and medical electricity. It had
been found difficult for patients to attend Addenbrooke’s Hospital for treatment
and for the staff there to administer treatment owing to the ever increasing number
of outpatients. It also saved time and expense and, in the case of a fracture or
dislocation to the leg, a patient would have to forgo treatment altogether if it
was not for this local institution. The clinic had had numerous cases of accidents
and relied solely on local charity for its upkeep

1899

The etiquette of University life is a thing by itself, but “The Freshman at

Cambridge” is veritably a royal road to knowledge. One might be some time without
learning that it is ‘bad form’ to wear one’s gown and carry an umbrella at the same
time. Yet here is the useful rule and many others of the same character set forth
clearly. Every Freshman, cast adrift upon the unknown sea of University life,
should get this book and make it the subject of careful study

Thursday 7th October

1974

About 7,000 men and women in the Cambridge area work for the Pye Group of
Companies. More than 1,000 employees travel daily to work by Pye bus. The first of
the 40 buses in daily use sets out from Wisbech in time to make the Cambridge works
by 8am. Almost 30 per cent of the workers get to and from work by the buses. A
special crèche has allowed the mothers of some 40 youngest children to return to
work. Without a firm commitment to planned industrial expansion Cambridge could
well fall behind more dynamic centres within commuting distance, and, in time,
become a quaint but declining tourist backwater in the fens, say the company.

1949
The proposal to buy St John’s hall, Wellington St, Cambridge, for use as the East
Road Boys’ Club was criticised. The building was described as “a filthy hovel,
scheduled for demolition and without sun and air”, part had been condemned as
unsafe some years ago. “It is a place I would not want to put pigs in”, said Coun.
Dennard. Mrs Rackham agreed it was a poor neighbourhood, but thought it would take
years and years for the whole of the district to be demolished.

1924
Two hundred children are in attendance four nights per week at the play centres at
Barnwell Abbey and New Street schools. There the number attending exceed the
accommodation and the staff, one woman had 98 children to look after & voluntary
help was continually breaking down. Alderman Starr asked if they were taking
children from parents who wanted to go to the pictures. The centres were
established some years ago under voluntary control, the Education committee
providing accommodation, light and heat.

1899
Richard Drake, machinist from Sutton, was summoned for permitting a locomotive to
be used on the highway drawing more than three loaded wagons. P.S. Hodge said he
saw a traction engine in Churchgate street, Soham drawing three wagons, a house van
and a chaff cutter. The driver said that his master had expected they would be
stopped. Fined 30s.

Friday 8th October

1974

Haverhill is heading for an industrial boom unprecedented in its 20 year history as

an expanding town. Formerly a decaying market town built around agriculture and a
single textile industry, it today has more than 80 factories and the industrial
estate spills over into the surrounding countryside. The town’s largest employer is
situated two miles away at Lt Wratting where Frank Sainsbury’s farm has developed
into one of the largest pork product producing complexes in the country, Haverhill
Meat Products

1949

Six trade union veterans with unbroken membership of the Amalgamated Union of
Building Trade Workers were honoured at a social held in the Norfolk Street Labour
Hall, Cambridge. Mr J. Docwra of Barton and Mr W, Northfield of Ross st received
gold badges. They have been members of the union for 60 years. Others with 50 years
membership were Mr S. Pope of Sturton St, Mr H. Hibbett of Histon, Mr T. Runham of
Catharine st & Mr W. E. Wilson of Newmarket

1924
The ladies who braved the elements and flocked to the University Arms Hotel had a
treat such as the feminine soul loves. The middle of the large dining room was
empty except for a small dais. A band discoursed dance music, and to the strains of
a waltz there floated into the room a vision of beauty in a delightful blue and
silver frock, trimmed with fur. She was speedily followed by another in black crepe
de chine and yet another in a straight simple afternoon dress. They all went
through a set programme, pausing as they entered, posing gracefully and making
various graceful movement to display the Babylonish garments, and finally vanished
through the entrance. All this was done with a detached, almost mechanical air, for
was it not a mannequin parade organised by Miss Poupard.

1899
On Saturday night the cooks left the kitchens at King’s college, as they thought,
safe, but P.C. Witham saw smoke coming through the roof. For fully two hours the
fire brigade had their hands full. The staircase is quite burned down and access to
the cook’s room above is by means of ladders. On Sunday morning the cooks went to
prepare the usual meals and members of the college were served as if nothing out of
the ordinary had occurred.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 10th October

1974

If you’re looking for home in the Cambridge or Huntingdon area there’s really only
one place to go. David Charles. Wherever you want to live and whatever you want to
pay you are almost sure to find your perfect home. Orchard End, Bluntisham – around
£12,500; all have four good-sized bedrooms, fitted kitchen and full gas-fired
central heading. The Elms, Dry Drayton - 21 four-bedroomed luxury homes a mere 15
miles from Cambridge from £17 - £18,000. Lanes End, Hauxton offers you a host of
good things like beautiful countryside, shops, schools, entertainment and very
attractive homes at realistic prices – around £13,500 - Advert

1949

Sir – I note with interest remarks about cinema entertainment particularly in

reference to the 16 mm Film Exhibitors Guild. The Guild is well represented in this
area. Mr Maddox of Orwell, trading as County Mobile Cinemas; Wrights Ltd of
Cambridge, trading as Wright Mobile Cinemas and Mr Oddy of Waterbeach, trading as
Globe Cinema Service. The Chairman is Mr David of David Film Library, Wisbech, a
well-known film renter and mobile exhibitor.

1924

A Stapleford grocer told the bankruptcy court that he had started a small business
pushing a barrow round the surrounding villages selling groceries, with about £3
capital. He just managed to make a living and thought he was solvent. He opened a
shop last February in the hope of extending the business but it proved a failure.
An auctioneer made him an offer for the business which realised £7

1899
A meeting of Cambridge carpenters and joiners was held to obtain an increase of
wages. At Newmarket the wages had advanced to 8d an hour and the carpenters and
joiners of Cambridge were beginning to agitate and follow in their wake. In many
other places men were only working a 49 hour week and left off at half past five.
There were some Cambridge firms employing carpenters who were offering 9d an hour
but most men were content to go on dribbling with 7½d because they thought they had
good berths and good masters. There was only one remedy for this evil and that lay
in organisation

Tuesday 11 October
1974

The Conservatives have held the Cambridge seat at the General Election, but with a
drastically cut majority of 2,773 over Jim Curran by David Lane. Loud cheering
greeted the three main party candidates as they appeared on the Guildhall balcony
but boos, hisses and cries of “Seig Heil” greeted the United Democratic Party
candidate when he appeared. A few tomatoes and apple cores were thrown on the
balcony but none of the candidates were struck. The former Ulster Secretary, Mr
Francis Pym successfully defended his Cambridgeshire seat though his majority was
1100 down on second-place Labour’s Mr Nick Farley. Stephen Jakobi, Liberal
candidate, polled 15,841

1949

Another step in the plan to provide nursery schools throughout Cambridge has been
taken in the opening of the new nursery school at Cherry Hinton. Priority is given
to the children of mothers who are working or are ill and although it is a town
school it has a strong local bias. It is ideally situated on the ground floor of
Cherry Hinton Hall. The house was acquired by Cambridge council in the 1930s and
has subsequently been used as a youth hostel and a maternity and child welfare
clinic.

1924

Those who are interested in the possibilities of farm work in Australia will be
pleased to learn that the Australian migration authorities will interview
applicants under the assisted passage scheme at Cambridge employment exchange. The
country has room for tens of thousands of men settlers. For the farm worker who
seeks richer rewards for his labour this rich young country has a special interest.
It offers the thrifty and industrious the way to farm ownership and independence

1899
St Ives council recommended that the fire engine, purchased 27 years ago, be
repaired at a cost of £48. A manual engine would be lent for use while the old one
was being put in repair. Mr Smith asked if they were well paid when the engine went
out of the town to a fire, as it was through being taken out that these repairs
were necessary. The Mayor said £2 was paid each time it went out. Mr Ruston said
this would not pay for the damage done to the hose alone

Wednesday 12th October

1974

Linton’s new £80.000 primary school will get a second mobile classroom soon to ease
overcrowding in classes. The school, which only opened its doors in September is
too small, because the County Council did not have the money to built it to the
size required for 200 pupils. The five classrooms have already been supplemented by
the addition of one mobile classroom.

1949
Cambridge town council considered the proposed resiting of the war memorial. A
scheme for a traffic roundabout at the Station Road junction means that if it were
left in its present position it would be marred by the number of “Keep left”
bollards and other traffic signs which would be necessary for the direction of
traffic. An alternative position involved the acquisition of certain land fronting
the Botanic Garden which would provide a restful haven away from traffic. None of
the Servicemen’s organisations was in favour of the removal of the War memorial
front its present position.

1924

The new motor ambulance which is being purchased by public subscription at

Haverhill was on view for several hours and inspected with interest by a large
number. It is the latest single-stretcher model, with new type low Ford chassis.
There are special shock absorbers fitted to all wheels, balloon tyres to the rear
wheels & electric lighting throughout. A seat is provided for an attendant

1899

A considerable amount of dissatisfaction has arisen in regard to the tithe charge

imposed on certain lands in Burwell fen by Cambridge University. The land in
question is some 3,000 acres in extent and was formerly under water. Nearly 60
years ago the fen was drained. The greater part is utilised for agriculture, but a
portion is cultivated as market gardens. The imposition of a tithe has weighed
heavily on the owners and there has been speculation as to the legality of the
charge. No tithe was exacted until after the drainage about 1840 and while some
owners have paid others have been allowed to go scot free. Now the parish council
has purchased ten acres for a public recreation ground and decline to pay the tithe

Thursday 13th October

1974

Over parish council called a meeting to allow residents to voice their opinions on
proposed development of the village. The mood was against a plan for the Doles area
which included 57 houses and ten shops. A speaker said: “We first want to put in
sewers for the rest of the village before we start to put in homes and shops”.
Another said: “We do not want this scheme, or any other scheme, in this village”

1949

Newmarket and surrounding districts were shaken by an enormous explosion when a

giant 6-engined American B50, the latest type of US bomber still on the secret
list, crashed at Isleham. All members of he crew, believed to consist of 12 airmen,
were killed instantly. The blazing remains of the aircraft were scattered over the
area of 500 square yards on the Beck Road. Neighbouring farm buildings and
haystacks at Worlington were set afire. The B50 is designed for long-distance
bombing and is said to be specially adapted for carrying atom bombs

1924

Saffron Walden council adopted the recommendation of the Water Committee to make a
charge of 5s. a year on all users of hose for washing cars or carriages, in
addition to the present rate.

1899

Sir : A beautiful white marble monument, standing some ten feet high was taken to
be erected in Coveney churchyard. The rector refused to admit it, as he said its
shape, an obelisk, was heathen and that the words ‘Peace, perfect peace’ were not
suitable. However he allowed the mason to place it in the enclosure and after it
had laid there some 100 days some good friends of the deceased assisted in erecting
it in the early hours of the morning. There it remained for twelve weeks, when the
rector, with the assistance of another, hurled it down. He was caught in the act by
two women. In his sermon he said he would like to put his arms round that wretched
monument and carry it out of the churchyard, only it was too massive. Others say
the churchyard looks neglected, like some wilderness in a deserted plague-stricken
century. – X

Friday 14th October

1974

Haverhill firemen had to mop up 30 homes in the town centre after a water main
burst. Water erupting from the main in Crowland road sent a four-feet waves
sweeping 400 yards down the road. The force of the water buckled the road surface
and caused a crater over the entire width. Mud and rubble was swept down the roads
and into homes. This is the second time that the main has burst

1949

A man whose name became famous throughout Cambridge and the Eastern Counties
through the chain of stores which he began, Mr Frederick Winton Smith, died
yesterday. He came to Cambridge in 1910 and set up the well-known butchery and
provisions trade at Mill Road. Within a very short time he was able to expand the
business until the firm is familiar throughout East Anglia.

1924
Holiday Snaps. Why don’t you make lantern slides of your holiday snaps. You will be
surprised what pleasure it will give the youngsters to see themselves on the
screen. Call and ask us about it. The winter evenings are coming on. Get ready for
them, and make the youngsters happy. W.F. Turner, the Camera House, Trinity St,
Cambridge – advert

1899

Home there are today in the town and county of Cambridge which are without a head
because husbands and fathers have responded to the call upon Reserves to join their
regiments. Cambridgeshire has already made a significant contribution to the
British strength in South Africa, while those left behind are in deepest anxiety as
to the safety of their absent ones. We owe it to ourselves as Englishmen to see
that the wives and children do not suffer in material comfort because the
breadwinners have gone forth to fight. Many are reduced to living upon the
Government allowance of a few shilling in the week. We would take the liberty of
suggesting that the Mayor Of Cambridge should open a fund for the families of
Reserve men and the active interest of Alderman Kett makes it appropriate that he
should put himself at the head of the movement. - Editorial

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 18 October

1974

For the second year in succession the world’s top physics accolade has come to
Cambridge. Two of the University’s foremost radio-astronomers, Prof. Sir Martin
Ryle, and Prof. Antony Hewish have jointly one the 1974 Nobel Prize for physics.
Sir Martin’s major work in Cambridge has been the development of the Lord’s bridge
radio-observatory and the construction of the five kilometre telescope there. In
1967 Prof. Hewish started a series of observations which led to the discovery that
some radio sources in space – later given the name pulsars – emitted extremely
regular radio signals. As a result of this discovery it has been possible to
establish the presence of neutron stars in the universe

1949

A man whose name became famous throughout Cambridge and the Eastern counties
through the chain of stores which he began, Mr Frederick Winton Smith, has died. He
came to Cambridge in 1910 and set up the well-known butchery and provisions trade
at Mill Road. He within a very short time he was able to expand the business and
this process of development has gone on until the firm is familiar throughout East
Anglia

1924
The Conservative candidate’s meeting at Girton was marked by uproar. The rowdy
element consisted chiefly of youths. About midway through Capt Briscoe’s speech, Mr
Thurlbourne, a prominent member of the Girton Labour Party entered the room and was
greeted with great enthusiasm. He asked a number of questions but the answers were
lost in the uproar

1899
The formal opening took place of Westminster college, the theological college which
the Presbyterian Church of England has established at Cambridge for the training of
students for the ministry. It is a great thing that the work has been done so well
in so short a time, but a much greater thing that the cost of building it – albeit
over £40,000 has all been met. Professor Ryle, President of Queens’, extended a
welcome to the new college. [SUBS – NB I INCLUDED THIS LAST SENTENCE AS I MENTIONED
ANOTHER PROF RYLE IN THE 1974 STORY TODAY]

Tuesday 19th October

1974

Parts of French’s mill, a Cambridge landmark, have been dismantled to make the
ancient structure safe. The mill, half brick and half wood was in its heyday about
1912 and has been passed down through the French family. Corn grinding stopped
there 17 years ago. Rot has set in to the main beams holding up the shaft and wheel
which have been removed as they were afraid the beams would give way and the
falling shaft and wheel bring the rest of the mill with them.

1949

Criticism of a proposal to spend £300 on laying out some parts of the Chief
Constable’s garden was voiced at Cambridge council. The money is to be spent in
clearing the site, removing rubble and levelling it out. Flower beds and rose trees
would be provided by the Chief constable. The Watch committee had decided upon it
after seeing the Chief Constable “moiling and toiling” with the land. It had been
neglected for 20-30 years and was a tangled mass of roots, thorns & scrub. The
Mayor said: “It would be an impossible business for one man to clear it by himself”

1924

The beginning of term finds King’s college chapel out of action. A more dreary
scene of ruin than the appearance of the choir could not be imagined. But it is
only due to the insertion of hot water pipes and radiators underneath. Meanwhile
the striking line of side chapels provides at once an altar and a church and thus
has the unique experience of possessing the choir all to itself.

1899

Sir – I am glad there are to be contests for the seats on Cambridge town council. I
have looked at the addresses of the candidates and most of them are contesting
wards where over 90 per cent of the electors have not such a thing as a bath. A
town of light and learning like Cambridge – of some 50,000 inhabitants - without a
single public bath in it is a disgrace – “A Ratepayer”

Wednesday 20th October

1974

Cambridgeshire planning department may be asked to scrap the ban imposed 25 years
ago on industrial development in Cambridge, & they may also be asked to allocate up
to 100 acres of land in Cambridge for industrial use. At present less than 30 acres
are earmarked for this. The Holford report which was published in 1949 recommended
that no new industry employing more than five people should be allowed to develop
in the city. In 1965 the planners raised the limit of employees to 12. Repeated
requests by the city council for the ban to be removed were all refused.

1949

A tribute to the pilot and crew of the US Stratobomber which crashed and exploded
at Isleham was paid at the inquest in the Isleham village school – its walls
cracked and damaged by the explosion which was only 400 yards away. Recording a
verdict of accidental death the coroner said the pilot took every step he could to
avoid and save damage to this village. Had he landed in Isleham we do not know what
the death-role and damage would have been but we can ascertain it would have been
colossal.

1924

The Cambridge Library committee proposes to transfer the local collection to a more
easily accessible position. At the present time it is shelved on the gallery in the
committee room and few people realise the wealth of material to be found. It is
proposed to transfer all bound volumes to the shelves in general, but it would be
fatal to allow unlimited access and it is suggested that frames be fitted with
brass wire lattice. The whole collection requires to be classified so that readers
may see at a glance the extent of material on any subject

1899

Frederick Oldham, tailor, Wisbech, sued George Comins, auctioneer, Ely, for the sum
of £8 13s., the cost of two suits of clothes. Defendant said the question was as to
misfits and that the suits were not delivered within reasonable time. He said the
collar of the jacket was cut so low that the tie showed above it. The suits were
returned without being opened. Without prejudice he was willing to pay plaintiff
the sum of two guineas

Thursday 21st October

1974

The A10 crossroads at Waterbeach, an accident blackspot which over the past year
has been the scene of two death crashes, is to be altered before the end of the
year. Milton’s High Street is also acknowledged to be a stretch of road where
accidents frequently happen. The head of the police traffic division said “I don’t
see there is anything basically wrong with the part of the road which passes
through Milton provided people are sticking to the enforceable speed limit.” During
the year within Milton’s built up area seven road accidents involving personal
injury were reported.

1949

British Legion veterans of the 1914-18 war strongly opposed proposals to move and
resite the Station road war memorial. Two sets of plans are being drawn up by the
council. One involves the removal of the memorial into a proposed new entrance to
the Botanic Gardens, and the other of placing it in the middle of a road island
where it already stood. Capt Taylor said he thought the whole perspective of the
memorial would be altered if it were removed. Dr R. Salisbury Wood suggested that
floodlighting would add to the attraction of the site. The Cambridge memorial was
the most beautiful one he had seen. If it was moved it would be a disgrace, said
A.E. Mudd

1924
There was a large attendance at the election meeting at Gt Wilbraham, the
schoolroom being filled. An unruly situation developed when Capt Briscoe attempted
to leave, his exit being barred by a crowd of antagonists. With the aid of a police
constable and a few supporters the candidate managed to reach his car and drove
away amidst a derisive howl from the mob
1899

An Eynesbury labourer was summonsed for conveying eight calves in a cart in such a
manner as to cause them unnecessary pain. An RSPCA Inspector said four of them were
lying in the cart with their heads towards the front, and four similarly placed at
the hind part of the vehicle. Their fore legs were tied and the four outside calves
practically lying on their backs. One calf’s head was hanging over the side of the
cart

Friday 22nd October

1974

Cambridge’s western by-pass will be built to lower standards than originally

announced – to save money and to reduce the land needed. The Government today
confirmed the line the road will take but said the 14-mile motorway would be built
with two-lane carriageways instead of the three lanes originally planned for most
of its length. They say the lesser width will cater adequately for the expected
traffic flow. No announcement has been made about a likely starting date.

1949

Myers Memorial Hall, Thompson’s Lane, Cambridge, was the home of the Cambridge
National Spiritualist church was opened. The Hall, brightly decorated, lighted,
furnished & heated, bears little resemblance to the army hut it once was. The organ
was dedicated to the memory of the late Mr C.W. Brown, a former member and
benefactor of the church.

1924

Sir – I see the Conservative press protest against the “rowdyism” at their
meetings. This is the only way any audience can protest against statements which it
knows to be travesties of the truth. I would like to know if Sir Douglas Newton
approves of the actions of his “unofficial bodyguard”, that band of British
Fascists of the aristocracy who frequent his meetings. Does he approve of them
assaulting defensive women as happened at Romsey Town – G.H. Crouch

1899

From a Cambridge man at the front, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. “I am out here
now and we have to go up to the Transval and pump some lead for Kruger, and I hope
to present a lock of his whiskers to our Fitzwilliam Museum. There are plenty of
Cambridge lads out here in the Fifth Lancers who have just gone up to Ladysmith.
Every man has 109 round of lead & I have been selected to fill the post of
stretcher bearer to pick up dead or wounded comrades; but perhaps I might be picked
up myself. I hope to come out safe and I won’t forget Kruger’s whiskers” - Paddy
Hopkins

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 25th October

1974

Mid-Anglia’s cigarette smokers can gasp with relief; tobacconists have stocks of
most brands, and W.D. and H.O. Wills’s workers have ended their strike. The manager
of wholesalers Palmer & Harvey Ltd of Cambridge says regular customers have been
getting about ¾ of the amount of Embassy and Regal cigarettes they had ordered. At
Ely, tobacco wholesale Mr Patrick Fynes said he was severely rationing his
customers. Asked if he thought this would force heavy smokers to cut down, he
replied: “They will smoke anything”. Finlay tobacconists in Ely High Street said
they were not too badly off.

1949

To most people our Chief Constable, (Mr B.N. Bebbingdon) is known only in his
professional capacity of guardian of the peace in Cambridge. To many children,
however, he is known as a writer of children’s’ stories. He has published several
books and in one of them portrayed animals in a police court scene. The newly
published annual “The Christmas Stocking” includes a short tale from his pen and
also stories by such writers of distinction as Enid Blyton, Richmal Crompton and
Dorothy Sayers.

1924

Barton Parish Council they repaired fences around the recreation ground to keep the
cattle in but defendant chopped down the gatepost. Six months ago he had a trench
dug to improve his drainage and consequently the recreation ground was getting very
marshy, the grass had got very sodden and there was a very bad smell. They had had
numerous complaints

1899

The funeral took place at Newmarket cemetery of William Williams, better known as
“Old Buck”. Deceased, who came from South America was a pure negro and landed in
this country about 21 years ago. He was employed by Mr Jacob Pincus and boasted of
having crossed the Atlantic some 25 times. In late years “Buck” was employed by Mr
Huggins, trainer to Lord William Beresford. Mr Pincus and all the lads employed at
Mr Huggins’ stable were among the many who followed his remains to their resting
place

Tuesday 26th October

1974

A crane with a 100 foot toppled over and smashed into a bridge being built for the
Huntingdon by-pass. It was being used to lift a piece into place by the side of the
Avenue in Godmanchester. One of the tracks was dug deep into the ground and the jib
buckled, with part of it lying across the new section of bridge which will
eventually span the river Great Ouse.

1949

“In my submission, the objectors merely want to see the High Street of Gt Shelford
as dead and respectable as a Acacia Avenue. It is clear they are the voice of
suburbia raising itself in the village”. These remarks were made at a planning
appeal when Mr A Townsend wished to erect a workshop for use in his business as a
funeral director and builder. The village had become very much influenced by
Cambridge and resembled more a suburb of the town rather than a village street. The
majority of “genuine” residents had no objections to the proposal and those
received were from suburban residents who had attempted to introduce the amenities
of a suburb to a country village.

1924
How a slight cut to the hand resulted in the death of a Doddington coalman was told
to the Cambridge coroner. Some coal had fallen from a sack on to his hand and
fingers. His wife did not bathe it because he was a man who just washed a cut and
did not tie it up. He later complained on a pain up his arm and went to bed. A
doctor said he had a poisoned arm. He died in Addenbrooke’s Hospital of blood
poisoning.

1899
The war in South Africa has already levied toll upon Cambridge. Among those who
were killed at Glencoe was Private J. Best, whose parents reside here, and on the
list of the wounded at Elands Laagte is Lance Cororal Henry Turner, a Cambridge
man. Their relatives have the very sincere sympathy of the people of Cambridge.
Whether the end of this war come soon or comes late, it will have cost the British
Army dear. Already hundreds of brave fellows have found their graves among the
hills of Natal.

Wednesday 27th October

1974

Tourists at Cambridge colleges found themselves caught up in one of the largest

security operations mounted in the University in recent years. It followed a
message passed on by the Metropolitan police that there could be a bomb explosion
at a college within 48 hours. As a result tourists carrying parcels were stopped
by porters. Many central colleges locked their chapels and halls altogether. Last
week bombs exploded in a London club and at Harrow school.

1949

The county council are to be recommended to take steps to obtain an order

subjecting High Street Swavesey to a 30 mph speed limit. It will also be imposed in
built up areas at Burwell, Isleham, Shepreth, Bassingbourn and Lt Abington. But
they refused Kingston parish council’s application for a speed limit there

1924
The new Town Hall at St Ives was formally opened by the Mayor. The imposing
building is in the centre of the Market place. Ald. Warren said that it was 50
years since the Borough was incorporated. He was pleased the council had never
allowed politics or religion to divide them and he hoped they would continue to
carry on the old traditions and not conduct their debates in any acrimonious
manner.

1899

Three London musicians and a comedian were charged with stealing a bag of potatoes,
value 4s., from a field in Melbourn. John King, roadman, said he saw one of them
jump over a hedge, get the bag and place in on a trolley. PC Knight said he saw the
prisoners with a piano organ on a trolley and found the potatoes lying on the seat,
covered with a rug. He detained two and took them to Royston police station.
Afterwards found the others had decamped with the pony in the direction of Baldock
but being a cyclist he followed them. One prisoner said they on 5 arriving at
Royston fair he saw Harris’ roundabouts and went and spoke to the proprietor. When
there the constable questioned him. They had bought the potatoes from a man in a
public house at Long Melford for 1s.6d.

Thursday 28th October

1974
Flats for retired ex-servicemen in Cambridge which were completed for the Royal
British Legion Housing Association a year ago were officially opened. Mrs M.
Fernie, the daughter of the late Harry Scott, after whom the flats are named,
unveiled a plaque by the entrance. Mr Scott was a former chairman of the Eastern
Area Council of the Legion

1949

“Are the County Health Committee washing their hand s of conditions in Fowlmere?”
asked Counc. Mrs R. Briggs. “There are at least 200 Poles living there in the most
squalid conditions possible and liable to be a source of disease to others in the
village”. A Polish speaking nurse was needed to overcome the language difficulty as
doctors were finding it a complete waste of time trying to treat Polish children
without any knowledge of the language. The Polish families had squatted on the site
of a disused aerodrome. Now they were subjects of the country, they should be
absorbed into the population and enjoy the amenities of the place where they were
living

1924
Polling opened quietly this morning. Almost every village East of Cambridge was
prominently placarded with bills exhorting the electors to “Vote for Briscoe”. In
the course of three hours our representative encountered numerous motor cars
displaying Capt Briscoe’s colours and only met one solitary car bearing the Labour
colours. In very few places was there any show of Labour placards but some of the
younger generation sported the red emblem and shrilly shouted advice to “Vote for
Garratt”

1899

A murder of a most ghastly and revolting nature was committed at Burwell Lode. It
is rare that a murder so determined in its criminal intent as that perpetrated in
the thick fog of the early morning on the banks of the river Lode is heard of. An
old woman was brutally murdered by her husband in the sight of their piteously-
screaming thirteen-year-old daughter, & almost within a stone’s throw of where two
grown-up sons were working.

Friday 29th October

1974

The Parry Lewis super plan for the future of Cambridge, which took three years to
prepare at a cost of £20,000, has been rejected by all the senior city and county
planning officers. The plans main suggestions were for the immediate scrapping of
the scheme for extensive development in the Burleigh street – Fitzroy street area
and the building of a second shopping centre in the Trumpington area. Chairman of
the County Planning committee, Counc. Tony Cornell, said: “The technical boys took
a look at Parry Lewis and they have not liked what they have seen”

1949

The hope that it would be “a very long time” before Cambridge University elected a
permanent Vice Chancellor was expressed by the Master of Christ’s, Dr C.E. Raven.
He said that occasionally one did get the almost perfect holder of that office, but
in the main such men either had not sufficient character to run such a great
administrative machine, or they had so much that no one else got a word in
hedgeways! “You cannot get ride of a permanent Vice Chancellor unless he is
definitely immoral or definite insane!”, the speaker added.

1924
At Fulbourn a considerable increase in the number of early voters was reported.
Capt Briscoe’s colours and motors were well in evidence. At Balsham a cluster of
children displayed scraps of red ribbons and shouted, “Vote for Garratt”. A tramp
was seen addressing a road sweeper near Abington and urging, with all the
persuasion of his kind, the necessity for England to return a Labour government. In
the course of his oratorical effort the ‘gentleman of the road’ beat the air with a
bag containing his worldly possessions. Shelford and Stapleford as usual made a
great show of the pink and white but near the centre of the village a red flag was
conspicuously displayed by the roadside – on a tar burner

1899
Sir – Hitherto, to its credit, Cambridge has escaped any public manifestation of
the war fever, but I read with deep regret that at a smoking concert at the
Conservative club there are to be patriotic songs and war choruses. When we read of
the shocking havoc wrought by dynamite trains and Maxim guns even our victories
seem shorn of their glory. This is not the time for song and jubilation - K

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 1st November

1974

It gets ever more expensive to ride to hounds but another fox hunting season starts
today with no sign of waning enthusiasm. One local hunt, the Cambridgeshire, will
hold its opening meeting tomorrow. But hay for the horses has almost doubled in
price since last year, the hounds’ food now costs more, the staff who care for them
undoubted receive higher wages, horses cost more to shoe and even the price of
hunting coats and boots has doubled in the last few years. On the bright side
subscriptions to both hunts have remained at last years’ level - £50 for one days
hunting a week and £80 for two or more. The hunt meets four days each week.
Meanwhile the number of subscribers is more than 200

1949

The county planning committee’s decision to remove permission for the construction
of a 30-house estate at Upware was criticised. There were 6,000 acres of land
beyond Upware and there was a danger of them all going out of cultivation unless
the farm workers got the houses they demanded. This would be nothing short of a
national scandal, but men could not be persuaded to go back to the land unless they
were given amenities – water, electricity and particularly houses.

1924

Sir – One evening a friend and myself decided to spend an hour at the Central
Library. No sooner had we entered the building than the eyes of the watch-dog
firmly covered us and continued to do so the whole of the time we were there. We
took our seats and my friend took from his pocket one of his own newspapers and
began to read it inaudibly. This was too much for the watchers who came forward and
told him to replace the newspaper in his pocket, adding that newspapers and books
bought in by the visitors were not allowed to be read in the library and writing
was only allowed when copied from the papers and books there. – “Economy,
impartiality and courtesy”

1899
Some time ago the University gave notice that they would petition the High Court to
divert a sum, derived from Wort’s Charity, used for the purpose of repairing the
main road from Emmanuel College to the Gog Magog Hills from that channel and
appropriate it for the funds of the University Library. Two public bodies, the
County Council and Chesterton R.D.C. are responsible for the repair of this road
and resolved to oppose the petition which would deprive them of an annual
contribution from the charity

Tuesday 2nd November

1974

The Mayor of Cambridge, Councillor Jack Warren, was today considering diplomatic
ways of asking some of the oil rich Arab sheikhs of the Middle East to help finance
the £2 million conversion of the Corn Exchange into a public hall. Last night the
city council gave him six months to raise the money needed.

1949

A great worker in the field of women’s suffrage has died. Mrs Edith Bethune-Baker
devoted her life to the advancement of women’s suffrage. Wen she first came to live
in Cambridge she joined the small suffrage society, the first meeting of which was
held at Christ’s college. On one occasion she spend 11 hours on a cross-country
journey to address a meeting of 12 women. After the suffrage battle was won she
carried on the work to secure equality for women. Although firm and courageous in
her stand, she was essentially gentle and courteous

1924

The first of a series of film displays with the object of educating public opinion
of certain dread diseases was held in Newnham. Of all the dread diseases which
devastated civilise countries to-day, venereal diseases were perhaps the most
serious. A centre was established at Addenbrooke’s where treatment was free and
secret. Since 1917 the number of attendances was 11,905. The disease was so serious
as to warrant the most vigorous propaganda. The responsibility of parents in the
education of their children in sex matters ought not to be shirked.

1899

A good deal of amusement was created at Littleport. From rumours widely circulated
it was expected at a “real gypsy wedding” would take place at the parish church.
Some said the contracting parties were to be taken thither in a caravan, that the
bride would be attired in red plush and the father had presented the happy pair
with a giant cup half filled with sovereigns. The building was filled by an
expectant congregation, with prominent inhabitants and many of the young women from
the factory. No bride and bridegroom presented themselves and the congregation made
their departure with feeling that can better be imagined than described.

Wednesday 3rd November

1974

MP Francis Pym lambasted the government for complacency and completely failing to
cope with the agricultural crisis. He painted a grim picture of the plight of the
British farmer and urged immediate Government action blaming Agricultural Minister
Fred Peart for causing the collapse in beef prices. The pig industry too was facing
great difficulties.

1949
Many people prominent in town and University life attended cocktail parties to
celebrate the opening of Messrs J. F. Miller’s new wine parlour at King’s Parade,
Cambridge. The new premises, tastefully furnished in a style fitted to the dignity
of Cambridge’s most distinguished thoroughfare will help the proprietors in the
education of the public in the niceties of wine drinking. Meals – lunches and
dinners – will be served in a dining room on the first floor.

1924

Four R.A.F. men had an exciting experience in an aeroplane crash at Barway. The
Vickers Vimy developed engine trouble and a landing was made in a stubble field.
For a score of yards the aeroplane ran along the ground at the rate of nearly 80
mph and all would have been well had not a four-foot dyke barred the way. The
machine crashed into the opposite side of the dyke, its nose penetrating the earth.
The impact caused the ‘plane to swerve completely round and almost turn a
somersault. Fortunately it rebounded on a even keel and the airmen were able to
alight, only one sustaining slight injuries

1899

A tramp was charged with refusing to do his allotted task at St Ives Workhouse. The
Master (Mr Eversdell) set prisoner to pick 2½ lbs of oakum. He refused as he was
suffering from asthma and being in a cell from which the dust from the oakum could
not get away it would get upon his lungs and would be ill for weeks. He offered to
do any other kind of out-door work. Magistrates said he could have seen the doctor
and he would have to go to gaol for 14 days

Thursday 4th November

1974

The owner of Tebbit’s bakery, probably the last in the Cambridge area with a coal-
fired oven, retires after nearly 50 years of producing crusty loaves and rolls for
Chesterton and East Cambridge. The bakery, off Gold St, run by Mr William Tebbit
with his wife Bunny, is to be closed. Each weekday he has got up at about 5 am to
start baking his daily batch of about 500 loaves, He forms the dough for cottage
loaves, Coburgs and bloomers by hand

1949

Construction has now commenced on a new roundabout at the junction of Hills Road
and Station road, Cambridge. Proposals are being discussed for an alternative site
for the war memorial. Site one : the memorial to remain in its present position in
the eastern corner of the traffic roundabout. The dignity of the memorial might be
marred to some extent by traffic signs. Two : memorial to be moved to the centre of
the new roundabout. Three: the memorial to be moved to a position in front of the
entrance to the Botanic Gardens, nearly at right-angle to Station Road so the
statue of the soldier will still face the town centre. This site would provide a
restful haven away from traffic and the memorial would not be marred by traffic
signs.

1924

A feature of the concert given at St Paul’s Institute was the debut of Mr Sydney
Coulson’s dance orchestra in Cambridge. The band comprises Mr Percy Stock (violin),
Tom Boyce (saxophone & banjo), Harry Hunt, late of the New Theatre Orchestra
(drums) and Mr Sydney Coulson (director) at the piano. With the dance season here
the need for a good dance orchestra grows ever greater and there is no doubt that
the Coulson band will be in great demand.

1899

When residents in St Andrew’s street, Cambridge, saw a procession of cabs passing

onward “all mournful and slow” to the railway station the people knew that someone
had been sent down from the University. From Emmanuel college a youth emerged and
under a shower of rice made hurriedly for the cab waiting at the door. The driver,
“Gentleman Joe” wore a tall hat draped with crape, and so did the drivers of some
four cabs what followed. The hero of the hour entered the Great Northern Station,
the train moving out to the strains of “Auld Lang Syne”. Meanwhile the cabbies
grove back to their respective stands. They were of more cheerful aspect on the
return journey and each puffed a festive cigar.

Friday 5th November

1974

New plans for reshaping Cambridge’s Burleigh st – Fitzroy St shopping area are
being unveiled at a private meeting tonight. Although the project provides for more
than 80 shops, including two major departmental stores, it is on a smaller
commercial scale than the plans put forward three years ago. The project includes a
new underground country bus station; placing much of Napier street underground to
avoid disruption to people living nearby, a series of underground service roads to
allow pedestrians traffic free access to the main shopping area, and the creation
of landscaped parks. It provides for a new store for the John Lewis organisation
and another for Laurie & McConnal

1949

A well-known Cambridge dance band musician was alleged to have told a detective “If
you smoke the stuff (Indian hemp) it assists in playing hot rhythm”. When police
searched his clothing they found three packets of African marihuana. He said it
bought it off somebody in the West End for 15s. A law student from Trinity college
said he went to a party and was offered a home-made cigarette. It tasted slightly
of herbal tobacco. He was told “This will make you rock”.

1924
Counc.Doggett said Coldham’s Lane was a veritable slough lately and almost
impassable. Its condition had got to such a pitch that one ratepayer proposed to
sow it with potatoes. Mr Rowley said £100 of material had been put on the road and
they were hoping to get a grant I future. There was an extraordinary amount of
traffic on the lane. It was not right to spend this money just for the sake of a
cement company. In the ordinary way there was no more traffic at Cherry Hinton than
there was at Teversham

1899

Eight cases of diphtheria (three fatal) have been notified at Saffron Walden during
the past three weeks. The first occurred in South Road, a girl aged ten. The next
was at the Orphanage, another in Almshouse Lane and three cases (one fatal) in a
cottage in Debden road. In addition there had been six cases of scarlet fever. All
the children attended the same schools which points to its defective sanitary
condition, notably damp walls, dry rot under the floor, defective drainage and
overcrowding, causing the air to be organically contaminated. The school had been
closed on October 21st, since then there has been no further spread of diphtheria.
LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 8th November

1974

The departure of the last pilot training aircraft from RAF Oakington – a Varsity T
Mark 1 – saw the end of an era at the base, which is due to be taken over by the
army in March next year. The Varsity is the last of 31 used at the base since 1951.
From 1962, about 1400 trainee pilots have recorded 60,000 landings at the airfield.
The Varsity completed a sweep above the village and two fly-pasts at low-level
before heading to its new home at Cottesmore in Lincolnshire.

1949

The quietest Guy Fawkes night “rag” long-service Cambridge police officers can
remember passed off without even a street lamp being extinguished – another “within
living memory” record. A crowd gathered on the Market Square by 7pm and fireworks
were thrown. A police car which arrived on the scene radioed for reinforcements.
These shepherded the crowd off the square. After that police posted at the
entrances to the square prevented people entering the area. Early in the evening a
few rotten eggs were thrown, and a smoke bomb exploded in the Sidney Street area.
These incidents, and the intermittent throwing of fireworks, constituted about the
only “excitement” of the evening, though there was an occasion when a “bulldog”
pursued a man at full speed in front of the Guildhall.

1924

The night of the 5th of November was clear and calm, and there was a bright moon to
light the way of revellers – ideal conditions for a “rag”. So evidently thought a
large crowd of undergraduates and townsmen that gathered on Cambridge Market Hill
in hopes. Police stood around in little groups taking a giving chaff good
humouredly with the crowd. Squibs and occasional small rockets broke the peace and
were heralded by faint cheers and feminine shrieks if they happened to go off in
the press. The first intimation of anything interesting was the sight of a small
youth, pale and very troubled looking, marching up St Andrew’s street, firmly held
by a constabulary hand.

1899

Almost as soon as it was dark a large number of youths made their way to Cambridge
Market Hill which was in a short time alive to the crackling and bangings of the
smaller fireworks. The ‘Varsity’, after hall time, joined the townspeople and from
eight to eleven there was a roaring, rushing crowd of several hundreds about the
hill and neighbouring streets. Certain of the townsmen who had begun the day not to
wisely by profusely drinking were responsible for the greater part of the disorder
and were seized and marched off by the ever-vigilant gentlemen in blue.

Tuesday 9th November

1974
Saffron Walden’s oldest Poppy seller must surely be Mr Jimmy Coe, who will be 91
later this month. For the last three mornings he has put on his overcoat and his
row of medals and left his home at 6.30 am to sell Remembrance Day poppies on
Audley End station. The decorations he wears include the Military Cross won he was
serving in France in 1916. He is modest about how he gained it. “They just threw it
at me, it came up with the rations”, he joked

1949

Pye Ltd have entered the American television market as part of the British campaign
for dollars. The equipment consists of a complete television station, including
cameras and telecines to project films. A team of five technicians have gone and
will help in the demonstrations along with two officials, Mr B.J. Edwards and Mr
John Lakin who will demonstrate it to the Federal Communications Commission in
Washington.

1924
Cambridge undergraduates were busy today selling poppies. They were stationed in
the centre of the town and in all the main thoroughfares leading thereto. Among
their number were several very persistent in their efforts and “held-up” anybody –
pedestrian, cyclist or motorist – who was not wearing a poppy. By way of pushing
business a group of undergraduates hired a donkey and barrow, attired themselves as
costers – complete with “pearlies” and other effects and went around the town
rattling money boxes

1899
The announcement that a number of Reserve men belonging to the Suffolk Regiment
would leave Cambridge to join the regiment sufficed to bring thousands of people
together in the Market Hill to give them a hearty send off. . It detracted somewhat
from the picturesqueness of the effect that the Reserve men were not in uniform but
in their ordinary clothes but they could not have evoked greater enthusiasm on the
part of the public. Heads of colleges were there, undergraduates in caps and gowns
rubbed shoulders with farm workers form the country. Old soldiers wearing their
medals had come to live over again stirring scenes from their youth. Women were
there and children also. It was a crowd thoroughly resolved upon manifesting its
goodwill to the men who were going away

Wednesday 10th November

1974

By Cambridge planning standards, the argument over how the Burleigh st – Fitzroy St
area should be redeveloped is a relative newcomer to a list of current city
controversies. It has been raging for only 15 years. Which means that at least
another 10 years of inactivity are necessary before the Lion Yard redevelopment
record is reached. Cambridge city council has announced its intention of making a
decision on the future of the area by the end of the year. But even if this happens
it will not be the end of the story by a long way. There will be inevitable
objections and the problem of raising money must remain a formidable obstacle in
these economic times.

1949
The Chief of Air Staff, Marshall of the R.A.F. Lord Tedder came to Cambridge to
unveil the war memorial at Magdalene college and to open the new Headquarters and
Mess of the Cambridge University Air Squadron at Chaucer Road. The Cambridge unit
was the first University air squadron not only in Britain but the world.

1924
Cambridgeshire County Council adopted a commendation as to the construction of a
bridge at Dimock’s Cote. Ald Howard gave a history of what had taken place since
September 1914 when the Ministry of Transport promised to pay two-thirds of the
cost. In the minds of some people the bridge was not required. But Cambridge would
benefit because congestion of traffic in the town would be relieved and in addition
they would be opening up a very large area of valuable agricultural country. Coun.
Taylor was convinced the idea was absurd. For one thing the road was too twisting
for fast traffic. The bridge would need constant renewal and maintenance would cost
thousands a year.

1899
Two more constables of the Cambridge police force have received notice to join
their regiments preparatory to leaving for South Africa. These are P.C.s John
Waylett and Goodchild. The former left Cambridge by train, being accompanied to the
station by Sergt Baker and eight of his comrades in the police force. As the train
steamed out of the station three cheers for the gallant 44th were lustily given by
the policemen

Thursday 11th November

1974

Isle of Ely farmers have called on farmers throughout England to be ready to picket
East Coast ports in protest against imports of surplus Irish beef. The NFU said
“People have found themselves driven to extreme measures not just to maintain their
existence or improve their position but just for survival.” In the 1970s it was not
just a question of squeeze but of strangulation. Coast had been shooting up but
returns had been falling almost as fast, a situation which made it virtually
impossible for anyone to compete.

1949

Sir – I would like to voice my opinion of the canteen prices of Messrs Pye Ltd.
Main meal (choice of two) 1s., was 10d. Sweet 4d., was 3d. Bread & butter ¾ d a
slice, was ½d. I fail to see why employees wish to take a matter like this to the
Trades Council, as these prices still constitute the lowest that can be obtained in
normal factory canteens. We now get a choice of two main meals and two sweets as
against one in the past, also we now get bread and butter, instead of margarine. I
am sure that the staff themselves can only say that the meals now worth every penny
of the rise in cost – W.E. Wilmhurst

1924

Councillor Mrs Hartree was elected first lady mayor of the Borough of Cambridge.
She accepted the honour as a representative of the women of Cambridge who desired
to work side by side with the men in the service of their town. She had consulted
some authorities, and some of the women, and it had been decided the best mode of
addressing the Mayor would be “Mr Mayor” as usual. (Hear, hear and applause).

1899
Cambridge has got a long railway station, but there would not have been an inch of
standing room to spare on the platform if all the people who desired to get in had
been permitted to do so. Shortly before noon the procession of Reservists arrived
and from that time till the train left all was wild excitement. The difficulty was
to get the men who were leaving away from their friends, and in the long run there
was nothing for it but to effect something like a forcible separation. Eventually,
amid vociferous cheering the train got away and the defenders of the country were
fairly on their way to do the country’s bidding.
Friday 12th November

1974

Sir – In the death of Mrs Doris Ditchburn, Cambridge has lost a much-loved citizen
who will be missed by a wide circle. She and her husband came to Cambridge in 1934
to work at the old County Hospital in Mill Road. Together they worked to improve
the standards of the hospital and towards her dream of a first-rate maternity
hospital. Mrs Ditchburn was a most understanding person and most unlike the old-
fashioned dragon of a matron, but insisted on a high standard from her nurses and
gained their affection and respect. – Margaret Reed

1949

At a reception in the Guildhall Cambridge people expressed their admiration and

appreciation of Stoker Hawkins of the “Amethyst” which made a bold dash down the
River Yangtse, an exploit that will go down in the annals of naval history, with a
presentation of a goblet and cheque. Ald Capt Taylor said he was reminded of the
only other occasion of this kind, when Cambridge honoured a hero – Able Seaman
Trevor Surkitt, who took part in the sinking of the Graf Spee in River Plate, and
was later killed in action

1924
Councillor Hurrell said they wanted to establish central schools in the county
instead of sending children into Cambridge. It would be cheaper and give a much
more effective education. Ald Jackson said it seemed to him that the idea of having
a central school at Foxton would never come into being. The main idea was to take
the children from Shepreth and send them to Foxton, and the parents would not have
it. The distance between the villages was a mile, the bigger children were able to
walk that far. That was the main objection – they would be walking leather out all
the time. The parents had a hard job to make ends meet without that extra
expenditure on leather.

1899

At the Granta Cycling Club smoking concert the chairman said all cyclists in
Cambridge were determined to have a cycle track. Every kind of athletics was
catered for except cyclists. It was not fair to those who placed stock on Midsummer
Common to have it there, and unless it was enclosed they would not get a ‘gate’ as
people who paid to see races generally liked to go on a stand. If cyclists were
determined to have a track they should collect a sum equivalent to that paid by
those who put stock in the Common and then they could have their ground enclosed.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 15TH November

1974

A schoolgirl bride kissed her husband goodbye outside the school gates in Cambridge
after being told by her headmaster “Studies before come before honeymoons”. Instead
of relaxing in southern Ireland as planned she is staying in the £120 a week Bridal
Suite at Cambridge University Arms Hotel with her 18-year-old husband, and setting
out each day for lessons at Parkside Community College. The bride’s mother said “I
went for an interview with the headmaster. I asked him if my daughter could have a
week off, but he said it was not in her best interests as she is studying for O-
levels”
1949

St Ives has lost a well-known and popular figure by the death of Mr William
Scotney. He carried on the business of manufacturing wood-worker at Sawtry, a
business which was founded by his father more than 100 years ago. In 1916 the
business was transferred to East St, St Ives, and later to the old brewery in
Ramsey Road, which was soon to become well-known as West End Mills

1924
An interesting and impressive Armistice Day service was held at Clare College. The
service preceded the opening of a memorial building – and extension of the college
– and the unveiling by the Chancellor of the University of the roll of honour of
198 men of Clare College who fell in the war. The building was designed by Sir
Giles Gilbert Scott. The ceremony included a simple commemoration, which the
college has undertaken to perpetuate. The deed requires that every year on 11th
November the Fellows and undergraduates, properly gowned, should assemble and the
Master deposit a wreath.

1899

An undergraduate of Caius college was summoned for riding a bicycle on the footpath
at Impington. Supt Webb said when asked for his name and address defendant
demurred, and then replied “X.Y.Z.” He told him he would detain him until he gave
him his card and defendant then compiled with the request. The reason he had got on
to the path was to avoid a young and prancing horse that came along. Fined 1s.

Tuesday 16th November

1974

An Uttlesford District Council committee decided to spend up to £1,200 on a coat of

arms and enamel and silver gilt insignia for the chairman after slashing nearly £½
million from its housing scheme. But the policy and resources committee decided to
make private requests to councillors to give up part of their council attendance
allowances to pay for it.

1949

Scheme involving an expenditure of over £6 million to prevent further flooding in

the fens were discussed by a select committee of the House of Lords considering the
River Great Ouse (Flood Protection) Bill. It seeks to empower the Gt Ouse Catchment
Board to construct works and acquire land. The total catchment area covers over two
million acres of which 400 acres were fenland, the richest agricultural land in the
country. The average annual value of the crops grown on the fenland was £50 an
acre, compared with an average of £25 for the rest of the country. In the most
fertile parts the annual value rose to as much as £100 an acre.

1924
The visit of Mr G.K. Chesterton to lecture on “The Superstitions of the Sceptic”
attracted a large audience to the Guildhall. He began by saying that a rumour had
gone round suggesting that the individual who would appear would not really be G.K.
Chesterton, but somebody disguised as that notorious character. He continued :
“Some of you may still entertain a suspicion that the figure you see is really that
of a slim undergraduate disguised with pillow and portions of doormat, and so long
as you don’t attempt to rush the platform and try to tear out the stuff, I am quite
content you should remain under that impression” (Laughter)

1899
A Cambridge divorce case of a startling nature was tried when a compositor sought
divorce from his wife on the grounds of her adultery with a tinman and brazier.
Plaintiff arranged to get into the house and was secreted in the cellar from which
he could see into the back room from which he saw adultery committed, but as he was
a small man he took no action then. He got another man to accompany him and they
found correspondent in a compromising position. She exclaimed: "Oh, my God” but
later said they had had a good laugh over the sudden surprise.

Wednesday 17th November

1974

A barmaid told Newmarket magistrates court of the big problems small townspeople
were causing her. She said “Newmarket is a very funny place to serve drinks. You
get so many small people, you can’t tell their ages”. The licensee had been charged
with selling liquor to persons under the age of 18. The presiding magistrate
dismissed the charges.

1949

For the second year running, Mr Percy Warrington of Cherry Hinton, and Mrs Cynthia
Pitman of Trumpington, have carried off the Bobwyn Challenge Bowl awarded each year
to the winners of the Cambs Old Time Dance Championship. It was held at the Rex
Ballroom which had been attractively decorated with lovely chrysanthemums and green
ferns surround thin the bandstand and the balcony. Tables and chair for sitting-out
were placed around the sides of the room. The ballroom was filled to capacity.

1924

The deepest regret will be felt at the death of Mrs A.C. Steward, wife of the
Master of Downing college. From its foundation in the dark days of 1915 she was the
life and soul of the Cambridge Tipperary Club which did much to help and cheer the
sorrow-stricken women of Cambridge during the anxious years of war-time, ever-ready
to advise and console. When peace came they continued the club to be a centre of
social enjoyment and of mutual improvement for all women without distinction of
class, creed or political opinion

1899

A stirring scene was witness at Warley when the 1st Battalion Essex Regiment left
en route for South Africa, at the entrance to the station there was a dense throng
and the soldiers had the greatest difficulty forcing their way through. The London
Society of East Anglians gave the Suffolk regiment an enthusiastic “send off” as
they passed en route to embark at Southampton and by special arrangement with the
railway the journey was broken for about ten minutes. The Suffolk Regiment
consisted entirely of East Anglians and their motto was “let ‘em all come”

Thursday 18th November

1974

Untreated sewage escaped into the streets of Cambridgeshire villages with pumping
stations unable to cope with the volume of rainwater. At least 11 pumping stations
were overwhelmed. With the pumps unable to get rid of the water fast enough, raw
sewage forced its way up through manhole covers into the streets. A South Cambs
Health Officer said “The smell doesn’t give rise to any health hazard”. The heavy
rain also meant the sewage would be diluted. Provided people washed their hands
before handling food there was very little to worry about.

1949

Cambridge magistrates were told the story of how two baby girls – aged one and 2½
were found on their own late at night in a room which was “filthy” and “evil-
smelling. An NSPCC said one bedroom was completely empty. In the other there was a
bare flood and mattress. A new cot in the room had obviously never been used.
Downstairs the house was untidy and smelt. The few pieces of crockery in the house
were all dirty. A small bowl used for bathing the children was much too small and
was kept in the yard in a filthy condition. There was no coal or other means of
heating in the house.

1924

Compensation was approved in respect of six licensed houses, which have been
closed. They were The King’s head, Cottenham, The Dolphin, Waterbeach, The Little
Rose at Swavesey, The Coach and Horse, Linton, The Morning Star at Sawston & The
Duke of Wellington in Cambridge, licensee Mr A.S. Scales where compensation was
agreed at £1,000.

1899

Mr Richard Langford of James Street, Cambridge, has passed away within a fortnight
of obtaining the great age of 100 years. He was early in life placed in a gang of
lighters which plied between King’s Lynn and Cambridge and acquired a gang of his
own. For many years he brought coals to Cambridge until the railway was opened,
when he retired.

Friday 19th November

1974

Operation Mop-Up got into full swing as flood waters subsided after nearly two
hours of rain in 24 hours. In Cambridge the river burst its banks from Lammas Land
in Newnham to Pye’s in Chesterton where the playing fields resembled a lake. At St
Neots a disable d elderly man and his wife were evacuated as flood water burst into
their homes during the worst flooding in that town since 1947. Office workers at
the Anglian Water Authority headquarters at Huntingdon spend an anxious afternoon –
waiting to see if they would be flooded. Children at Dullingham primary school had
to be ferries across floods by a local farmer’s trailer when water blocked the
road.

1949

People passing over Magdalene Bridge this morning were surprised to see the usual
colour of the River Cam had changed to a bright green. The discoloration extended
from the bridge along the Backs of the colleges and beyond. It will be recalled
that following a discoloration of the Cam last year – not then green – a public
meeting of protest was called by the Federation of Anglers.

1924

Little Barford, near St Neots, s village of 150 people in the heart of an

agricultural district, has been selected as the site of a big new electrical
undertaking. In this small village, at present devoted almost entirely to rural
pursuits, it is intended to erect a large generating plant to supply electricity
throughout an area of more than 1,600 square miles. The proposed station will cover
about 43 acres and it is intended to erect houses for the workers in the
neighbourhood

1899

The Inspector of Nuisances told Caxton Guardians that at Kingston he inspected a

cottage occupied by a man, wife and four children where diphtheria had broken out.
Two of the children were now lying dead. The disease would probably be traced to
the insanitary condition of things at the school which were very defective. It had
not been closed because he was waiting for the medical officer’s report.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 22nd November

1974

The salt pot has disappeared from the dining tables of Cambridgeshire schools. Now
school children can only help themselves to salt under the watchful eye of a
supervisor. The rationing follows big cuts in the deliveries of table salts to
schools. During some weeks they are getting none at all. Ten-year-old Michelle
Williams of Hardwick made sure of her salt supply by taking her own to her school
at Comberton

1949

44 young lime trees have been planted to replace the famous avenue of elms at
Trinity college. The first was planted by the Master, Dr G.M. Trevelyan. 10,000
crocus bulbs have also been set, as many were destroyed when the old trees were
felled.

1924
Sir – To my thinking there are, for a town the size of Cambridge, too many useless
trees by half : trees that are neither useful not ornamental. Take a walk along
Grange Road and look at some of the expensive villas there being ruined by trees
planted in the small space of ground around them, blocking out the air and
harbouring all kinds of insects. Where can you take a walk and get a view of a
glorious sunset or beautiful landscape. Your vision is marred by a lot of
unnecessary trees. I think a good purpose would be served if hundreds of trees were
cut down and sold as cheap firing to many poor people – “An old lover of Cambridge”

1899
Walter Pluck of Balsham said he had an agreement with Alfred Kent of Horseheath to
take away the carcasses of any horses which might die. The value of the carcasses
differed, the average being 15s. The horses were taken away about two or three
hours after death. Some were in a very bad state, and were rotten so he was obliged
to put them on the manure heap. He never sent any grease in part payment.

Tuesday 23rd November

1974

Hundreds of children are being robbed of the chance to use their school swimming
pool because of the high cost of oil fuel. At Godmanchester primary school hundreds
of pounds worth of equipment for heating their partially-covered swimming pool is
standing idle. The headmaster said : “If oil were not so expensive we would have
children out there now using the pool. I don’t hold out much hope for next year
either, with the rates going up as they are. We will open the pool sometime next
year when it is warmer”.

1949

“Ben”, the talking dog owned by Mr Alfred Brissenden of Royston, is to make another
broadcast. Now eight years old “Ben” will appear on the Light Programme. It will be
remembered that “Ben” is no stranger to the microphone, having appeared in
television “Picture Page” in September 1946, when he almost “let down the side” by
mistaking a fellow artiste’s fur coat for a cat. Eminent veterinary surgeons have
examined “Ben’s” vocal apparatus and have been considerably impressed by his
accomplishment. Unfortunately when making his NBC broadcast in 1946, “Ben”
developed mike-fright and it is hoped his performance on Thursday will reproduce
perfectly for the delight of his many fans.

1924

A deputation from the fire brigade attended Soham Parish Council. They reported
that when the recent fire occurred at Mr Horley’s shop instead of calling the
firemen someone forced open the fire station door and took out the Minimax fire
extinguishers, one of which was damaged, while another is missing. The standpipe
was also removed from its place and put behind the engine. Had it been a large fire
this would have caused delay. It was agreed that only the recognised members of the
Fire Brigade have the right to open the fire station door

1899

Huntingdon County Council sought a declaration that the River Ouse from above St
Neots to below St Ives and thence to the sea, was a public navigable river and a
common highway. Leonard Simpson claimed that it was his private property. He had
the exclusive passage of vessels laden with merchandise and no one else should
navigate any part of the river without a licence from him. The judge said the
public were entitled to use it.

Wednesday 24th November

1974

Ron Atkinson, 35-year-old Kettering manager and former Oxford United skipper, is to
be Cambridge United’s new manager. He said: “I think it is a club with a good
chance of going places. I am not the type of guy to float in there and clear
everybody out. There are some good players, although possibly they need a bit of a
lift. There is still a chance we can get into the promotion race. All I promise is
that I shall work as hard as possible to get the right results”.

1949

The character of Hauxton Gap would be altogether destroyed if ten houses were built
there, it was claimed at a Planning Inquiry when Mr Baynes appealed against Council
refusal to let him build houses on his own land. He proposed to put them up
opposite others that had been built before there was planning control. The backs of
the proposed houses would be seen from the main Cambridge-London road, and the
impression given would be one of continuous development from the start of Harston
along two miles of roadway. Asked if he knew there had been complains about the
smell from the nearby Pest Control, Mr Baynes said it was unusual that a site
cannot be developed because somebody else is committing a nuisance.

1924

The death occurred at his residence, Devonshire Road, Cambridge of Mr William

Saint. Born at St Ives in 1851 he came to Cambridge and started business as a
builder in Hooper Street. In 188 he transferred to St Barnabas Road where the
present works are situated and in 1918 it was turned into a limited company. A
flourishing concern has now been built up, but the builders’ strike in the early
months of this year had a serious effect and gave him a great deal of worry &
hastened his end

1899

A distressing event occurred at the Haverhill cemetery. Just as three o’clock was
striking a funeral party, numbering about twenty, arrived at the gates and on
proceeding inside found that no minister was present. A messenger was immediately
dispatched and it was learned that the vicar had left for London that morning. The
difficulty was resolved by summoning the vicar of Thurlow who happened to be in the
street at Haverhill. The last rites were then performed by the graveside.

Thursday 25th November

1974

Customers at two riverside pubs near Needingworth found it was a case of “water,
water everywhere, but a not a drop to drink” unless they came equipped with
wellingtons to breach the floods. At The Pike & Eel, which was marooned on an
island, staff helped customers across a relief route of up-turned crates. As the
crates gradually became submerged customers had to be rowed to the pub in a rubber
dinghy. At Overcote the floods stretched nearly 200 yards from the normal river
edge & the normal footpath to the Ferry Boat lay eight inches under water.

1949

Members of the Newmarket Fire Brigade had to climb to a height of 80 feet to the
top of a retort house at the Newmarket gas works in order to fight an outbreak of
fire in a bunker containing 100 tons of coal. When they arrived flames were leaping
into the air threatening the structure of the building. After three hours the fire
was under control. The production of the town’s gas was no affected.

1924

The Isle of Ely County Council had been in communication with Norfolk in regard to
the reconstruction, repair and maintenance of Welney suspension bridge, which was
in a very bad state. Councillor Peake said “I always fell the bally bridge will go
down when I am going over it”. The bridge belonged to the Ouse Drainage Board and
if nothing were down they would do temporary repairs and make the bridge fit for
traffic for 600 years and the tolls would remain.

1899
An unusual incident took place in the Baptist chapel. St Andrew’s street,
Cambridge. The pulpit was occupied by the Rev Jackson of Reading who preached a
very able sermon. Afterwards the Rev. Charles Keene, who was in the audience,
occupying a seat in the gallery, rose and made a few remarks criticising what the
preacher had said. Mr Keene was quietly heard and when he had finished Mr Jackson
thanked him, and the service was closed in the usual way.

Friday 26th November

1974

The first full degree awarding ceremony of Cambridgeshire College of Arts &
Technology was held in an atmosphere of austerity. There was dignity but no frills
as more than 130 degrees were awarded – no academic gowns or hoods, no flowers. The
college officials felt that such “extras” might have offended the ratepayers.

1949
Over Fen Committee are vigorously building up their case to present to the Land
Commission in order to prevent Over and Bare fens being taken over by the
Government. To illustrate what could happen Mr Mealling said he bought a
smallholding near Caxton Gibbet ten years ago. As a war gesture he allowed it to be
cultivated by the Government, who had later extended this War Emergency Act to
1950. “My land was taken over and ever since I have seen men skim the cream off my
land while I sit there wanting a living”, he said. The Vicar said there were 80
fields in Bare Fen of about 3 ½ acres which was extremely valuable to the owners
and occupiers, as it provided out-wintering for stock for which there was no other
accommodation. If it is taken and blocked there are going to be men here who cannot
graze or stock cattle

1924

Mr Mettlebury gave a short sketch of the beginnings of Fascism in Cambridge. It had

started with a group of men who went with St Douglas Newton at election time to
ensure him a good hearing. Some were merely there in the hope of a ‘scrap’ but
others had ideals. After this group had formed into the Cambridge Fascist Society
assistance had been offered to various candidates, including Mr Firth as
Constitutional Labour Candidate, to ensure them a hearing free from organised
rowdyism. He felt confident that British Fascism in Cambridge would prevail.

1899

The London Scottish Rifle Volunteers arrived in Cambridge for the purpose of
engaging with the University Volunteer Corps in certain field operations. The idea
was for the Scots to gain an entrance to Cambridge. The University Volunteers
marched in the direction of Shelford, where they expected to meet the attacking
force. The opposing forces formed up at Caius College Farm and then proceeded via
Hills Road to Cambridge.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 29 November

1974

Tomorrow Arnold Parker will put the final batch of loaves from his oven at Lt
Shelford. So ends a century-old baking tradition and so passes that delicious
crusty loaf which arrived warm on the kitchen tables of homes in surrounding
villages. Private bakeries have been dwindling rapidly in recent years. In 1971
there were half a dozen left, and now the numbers are very small. The economic
situation will probably kill them all off in the next few years.

1949

Damage believed approaching £900,000 was done when fire destroyed several thousand
of finished wireless sets, 300-400 television sets and numerous components stored
in a hangar rented by Pye Ltd at the former stereo works in Madingey Road. A
director said: “Many of the sets were for export. Included in the stock destroyed
were several thousand television cabinets. Some of our telecommunication equipment
was also stored there, including a complete set of blind landing equipment due to
be shipped today"

1924

The Fiery Cross, which has been circulating throughout the dioceses of England
since the beginning of the year , was met at the gates of St Mary the Less,
Cambridge , on Thursday night by a full choral procession. It came from St Luke’s
Chesterton and proceeds to Tilbrook, Hunts. Wherever the fiery cross goes it has a
perpetual stream of watchers. It may be described as a missionary pilgrimage, an
intercession for the conversion of the heathens in England

1899

Following their manoeuvres at Shelford the London Scottish Rifle Volunteers had a
further engagement with the University corps in the vicinity of Caius Farm, near
the Gog Magogs. The Scots marched out to occupy the farm and were reinforced at
Fulbourn by a company of the Newmarket Suffolk Volunteers. The actual firing
operations began at 2.45. The farm having been taken the defending and attacking
forces were formed up in line and the march home was begun, the Scottish pipers
leading the way.

Tuesday 30th November

1974

Football fanatic Denise Langram, aged 15, had not missed a Cambridge United home
match for four years – until today. She went into hospital more concerned about
missing United’s home game against Rotherham than about her treatment. But she was
given some consolation when two of her heroes, United’s longest serving player and
former captain, Terry Eades and full-back Ray Seary took her a bouquet. Denise
hopes to be out at the end of next week: “And I hope I never have to miss another
match”, she said

1949

Booking opens at the Arts Theatre for the Cyril Fletcher pantomime, “Aladdin” which
will be presented on Boxing Day. It is traditional pantomime in the old style with
lovely costumes, brilliant lighting, and Cyril Fletcher as Wishee Washee and Betty
Astell as Aladdin. They are well-known through their radio series, through many
television programmes and for their West-End appearances.

1924

Thank to the efforts of the Rector, the Rev. C.H. Evelyn-White, restoration and
repair work has been going on at Rampton church. The rector has held the living for
thirty years and has devoted himself to beautifying the church during the whole of
that time. The Lord Bishop of Ely dedicated the new east window erected in memory
of the men of the village who fell in the war. Other work includes the re-roofing
of the south aisle and the re-building of the east wall, during which many
interesting relics were found.

1899

The business premises of Mr Gray Palmer, clothier of High Street, Saffron Walden,
had a narrow escape of being destroyed by fire and nothing but the prompt action of
his assistant averted a serious conflagration. Being Saturday night it was 10
o’clock before the business of the day was completed and the shop closed. After
this Mr Palmer and his family, with Mr Ashby, had an hour’s recreation and retired
to rest. How the fire originated cannot be accounted for, there is no fireplace in
the room.

Wednesday 1st December

1974

Traffic came almost to a standstill in Coldham’s Lane, Cambridge, as queues built

up for the newly-opened Sainsbury’s supermarket and freezer centre. By 9.15 the car
park, which holds nearly 400 cars, was almost full and queues had formed outside
the door. After Mr John Sainsbury had opened the store the eager shoppers converged
on the packed shelves and crowds formed round the plentiful supply of sugar.

1949

A motion that overtime on Saturdays for farm workers should operate from noon
instead of 1pm was defeated at the Agricultural Wages Committee. Mr A.E. Stubbs
said many farm labourers played football or cricket on Saturday afternoons and they
should be let off earlier for that reason. It simply meant making an earlier start.
In addition farming communities no longer relied on the villages for shopping and
now went into town. Cambridge shopkeepers were closing between 4.30 and 5 pm on
Saturdays and that affected farming people who had to travel in

1924

Sir – Having lived in Derby street, Cambridge for nearly ten years I can faithfully
describe its condition. During this period not a stone has been laid on the road.
On rainy days each house occupier has his own lake situate along the front. After
long years of passive submission a “round robin” was sent to the authorities asking
if they will lay a path for us. The answer came this week. If the tenants will pay
6s.9d. per foot frontage, all’s well, as it is, in the opinion of the Council, a
private street – E. Frost

1899

The annual ploughing competitions of the Cottenham Ploughing Society were brought
off. Mr Greene said they lived in days of invention; they already had steam
ploughs, which did not make much headway, and it was very likely they would see
motor ploughs in the future. He believed the day was far distant when the need of a
good horse to draw the plough, and of a good man to drive it would no longer exist
in Cottenham. A feature of the competition was the good ploughing of F. Skinner who
has entered four times and on each occasion taken first place.
Thursday 2nd December

1974

Cambridge chamber of commerce has discounted criticism that around-the-clock

Christmas lighting in the city's streets is a waste of electricity. They consider
that to switch off Christmas decorations now would only bring about an atmosphere
of gloom when people should be confident and full of beans. Their president, Mr
George Abbott, said: “We have been assured power stations have enough coal for a
normal winter but if there is any suggestion the power situation is likely to
become serious all local businesses will co-operate fully”.

1949

Tenants of Gothic street and Doric street have sent a petition to Cambridge health
department protesting “most vigorously against the prolonged occupation of these
slum dilapidated properties, seriously affecting the health, particularly of the
children forced to live under absolutely shocking conditions, which foster ill
health and the spread of disease; being vermin-infested and in a very bad state of
disrepair, some without kitchen fires, others with collapsed interior walls and
ceilings”. They recall that the properties were actually purchased by the council
before the war for demolition. Tenants were told this accommodation was only
temporary some one to three years ago

1924

Progress is being made in connection with the erection of a bridge over the river
at Chesterton but the Surveyor is overwhelmed with work. It is two or three years
ago when the owner of the land necessary for the proposed bridge at Pretoria road
said he was willing to sell the land at a reasonable price. Over 800 people had
paid for season tickets to go over the ferry and the council got something like 25s
a week in odd halfpennies for casual passengers.

1899

It is particularly gratifying to note that the villages are giving generously

towards the assistance of our soldiers’ families. The public meeting held at
Waterbeach reflected the utmost credit on this village and its public spirited
inhabitants. Another village that has done honour to itself is Swavesey where over
£40 has been contributed. The heart of the nation has been touched to pity and to
effort. The needs are great but they are bound to become very much greater

Friday 3rd December

1974

The best route through Cambridgeshire for the “missing link” road between the A1
and the M1 would be generally along the existing A604 Huntington to Cambridge road,
the county planning committee decided. The government has indicated its intention
of building the road within the next ten years. It would cost £9 M. and cause the
least disturbance to housing and agriculture. In addition it would enable by-pass
schemes for Bythorn, Spaldwick & Ellington. County councillors criticised the
government suggestions that the road should be built to single-lane standards
because there would be insufficient traffic using it to merit dual carriageways.
1949

When Vera Lloyd of Cambridge was stopped for riding a bicycle without a rear light
she was stated by P.C. Cole to be carrying a white light shining to the back of
her. Told of the offence she said: “I would have put some lipstick on the glass,
but I have not got any!”. She was fined 10/-

1924

Stormy scenes were witnessed at the meeting of the Cambridge Trades Council and
Labour Party when a resolution preventing Communists, Liberals and Conservatives
from being delegates was discussed. Mr Overton explained there was no Communist
party in Cambridge until March 1923. A long and bitter fight had occurred at every
meeting over some phase of Communist work and this had gone on for 12 months. It
got so bad that the Committee received letters from several trade unionists asking
them to put a stop to the trouble. There was such a great difference between the
Communist Party and the Labour Party as to make it impossible for them to work in
the same organisation.

1899

Cambridgeshire villages have been prolific in fires of unusual magnitude and

Landbeach has now earned the distinction of having a disastrous fire within its
limits. Four cottages, a blacksmith’s & wheelwright’s shop and a stable were burnt
completely out. Luckily building space in Landbeach is not at a premium and the
properties formed a little group by themselves with at least ten yards between any
other dwelling house, otherwise the damage would assuredly have been much more
extensive. The buildings were of lathe and plaster and in an incredibly short time
were one huge bonfire

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 6th December

1974

The news Sainsbury’s supermarket in Coldham’s Lane, Cambridge, was almost

overwhelmed with customers last night. The car park was filled, and the traffic
jams built up to such an extent that the police were called to help to get things
moving again. And there were jams inside the store. The doors were closed at 7.30
pm – half an hour earlier than advertised - in the interest of safety.

1949

Cambridge housing committee has authorised the Surveyor to negotiate tenders for
the erection of 217 houses during the first six months on the Ditton Lane, Queen
Edith’s Way and Coleridge Road sites, and for 250 more and one at Ventress Farm for
the remainder of the year. They have informed Marshall’s Flying School that they
are unable to give priority to workers holding “key posts” and also said that until
the present housing position eases they cannot consider providing accommodation for
further single persons.

1924
The question of a parking place for buses and private motor cars was discussed at
some length by Cambridge town council. The Watch Committee suggested that Drummer
street should be used as a parking place for motor cars and buses. The Surveyor
submitted a plan which included taking in a portion of Christ’s Pieces. It was
resolved that the scheme should not be entertained and a proposal be considered for
constructing a parking place on Butts Green

1899

An ostler and an undergraduate were summoned for causing an affray by fighting in

Petty Cury. P.C. Belling said he took them both into custody. On the way to the
station the undergraduate was wrestled from his custody by another ‘Varsityman and
his finger was injured. On returning to the Market Hill he saw the student with
some friends and he admitted having escaped from custody. After the magistrates had
deliberated they found the charges not substantiated and the case was dismissed.

Tuesday 7th December

1974

Social workers were despairing, demoralised & frustrated at being pressed to carry
out more welfare work while at the same time being faced with demands for strict
economy, the County Social Services Director said yesterday. There was a desperate
pressure of work on staff and many were having to work 60-70 hours a week. In
addition, they faced demands from courts, the police and pressure groups for more
services.

1949

A fascinating exhibition of the smaller types of fish can be seen at the Central
Cinema this week. Arranged by the Cambridge Aquarists’ Society it is the first show
of its kind held in Cambridge since they were formed two years ago. A special
attraction is the “Guess the Guppies” competition

1924

Cambridge Council have asked the Ministry of Health if they are prepared to grant a
subsidy in respect of wooden houses. Coun. Stubbs asked if they intended to build
the workers wooden rabbit hutches to live in. Coun. Briggs said it was a retrograde
matter, they ought never to touch such a thing as wooden houses in 1924. Councillor
Ambrose said they were not putting houses up because they had not the men to put
them up. There were rows of houses waiting for men to come along and finish them
off. If they put up a wooden frame construction they would do any amount of good.

1899

A bog oak raised from the fen at Bottisham Lode was found to be 100 feet long. When
men were splitting it they found in the centre a honeycomb which had also been
embedded in the peat. The comb was in a perfect state of preservation and dotted
about it were bees. The entrance to the comb was a gigantic knot and it is supposed
that when the tree fell this fell directly into the gault, thus making prisoners of
the bees which were in it.

Wednesday 8th December

1974

The rapist terrorising girls in Cambridge’s bed-sit land claimed his fourth victim
in two months when he struck in the Newnham area of the city yesterday. It was the
fifth attack on single girls living alone. Four have been raped and one fought her
attacker off on the doorstep. The man leading the 20-strong special police squad,
Detective Superintendent Bernard Hotson said today: “We are looking for an
extremely sick and dangerous man”

1949

Sir – Has Smart’s Row ever been condemned? My landlord is trying to make my house
water-tight, but because the roof is dilapidated to such an extent that no
contractor will undertake the job to put it right, every time there is a heavy rain
I get flooded out. There are 13 houses in this Row and no matter how many of a
family you have there is only one bedroom. It is impossible to get a 4ft 6in bed
into the room, either by stairs or window – these are so small. There is no garden
but a rat-infested back way. We have no sink and it is detrimental for my wife to
try and keep the place clean. We should not be allowed to stay in these houses
until we develop T.B. & other diseases – F. Byrne

1924

There is considerably less unemployment in Cambridge. The figures at the Labour

Exchange show that last year there were 806 on the live register and today it is
490. There are 200 men on relief work and the Committee have five jobs on which
they could start in the near future as a means of absorbing men who might become
unemployed through other work ceasing.

1899

Two impudent burglaries were committed in Mill Road, Cambridge. The premises
occupied by Mrs Emma Coleman, confectioner, and the Danish Dairy Company’s shop
were broken into, but fortunately the nocturnal visitors carried away but little
booty as the result of their efforts. Each of the door bear muddy scratches leaving
no doubt that the burglar must have been agile and diminutive enough to squeeze in
through the limited space afforded by the open fanlight. In his decent from the
fanlight the burglar knocked down a row of jellies, but the thief was of an orderly
turn of mind for they were all picked up and neatly stacked on the counter

Thursday 9th December

1974

Large-scale ward closures at both Old and New Addenbrooke’s hospital are planned
over Christmas and New Year because not enough nurses will be available to staff
them. Patients will be sent home and only emergencies dealt with. The closures have
been made necessary because the Health Minister, Mrs Barbara Castle, has ordered
than nurses should take an extra six days holiday before March 31st next year and
wants the leave taken as soon as possible. A nurse said: “We obvious welcome the
extra leave, but it was not necessary for Mrs Castle to order it to be taken right
away. We feel she took the measure to placate the more militant member of the
profession”

1949

An appeal for the organisation of college servants into a union was made at a
meeting of Cambridge Trades Council. Mr Betteridge maintained that conditions in
some of the colleges were “600 years behind the times”. There are some people who
are working seven days a week and a number of the college servants are not enjoying
the amenities enjoyed by other individuals. Some men even have to go back during
their lunch hour to served meals to make up their time, he added.

1924

The Town Clerk reported the receipt of a petition against the erection of a bridge
over the river at Walnut Tree Avenue, Cambridge. It stated that the present
extensive outlook of considerable beauty across the Commons was much appreciated by
the residents and this would be practically eliminated by the approach to the
proposed bridge. The value of property would be considerably depreciated.

1899

New Hotel, “Fleur-de-Lis”, Humberstone road, Chesterton. This first-class hotel is

now open and replete with every comfort. Billiards room in course of erection.
Gentlemen visiting the hotel will find the Smoke Room fitted with every comfort –
advert.

Friday 10th December

1974

Sawston parish council criticised an application for the demolition of Peasgood’s

shop in the High Street. The building, believed to date from the sixteenth century,
stands in the heart of the village’s conservation area. It has been closed since a
fire damaged it about two years ago and is now derelict. Large lorries using the
narrow Portobello Lane at the side of it have caused further damage. Councillor
Tony Cartwright called it the last example of a medieval yeoman’s dwelling left in
Sawston. “It is a building of considerable historic interest. We would be very
sorry in twenty years time if we let this happen” he said

1949

A further 6,550 acres of Swaffham Prior and Burwell fens is to be referred to the
Agricultural Land commission for consideration as to whether it should be taken
over by the state. The Agricultural Act empowers the Minister to acquire
agricultural land when it’s full and efficient use is prevented by work not being
carried out efficiently, or because equipment is not being provided or maintained.
Opinion in the area is that considerable hardship could be caused should it be
decided to recommend state ownership.

1924

The heavy rains of the past few weeks have made the roads in the Saffron Walden
district in a very bad state. The Wimbish-Thaxted roads resemble miniature rivers.
At Upper Langley Green an old resident said that he had never known the roads to be
in such a bad state before. In some places the roads have lately been made up, but
the heavy rains have turned the surface into quagmires of mud & sand.

1899

John Ginn, 12 years of age, living at Saxon-street, a hamlet near Newmarket, has
just distinguished himself by a curious adventure. Having read of the boy who
killed three Boers in the South African War, his spirit burned within him to go and
do likewise. Emptying his money box he had enough to pay his railway fare to Ely
and set forth. He left behind pinned on the wall of his room this curious epistle:
- “Dear mother and father, I am going to be a soldier and shoot Boers with a
revolver, like the boy Sherlock did. Goodbye, John Ginn”. The boy was interviewed
by the Colonel in command at Ely who gave him some good advice and a return railway
fare home

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 13th December

1974
There are 24 council house tenants at Horseheath still using tin bucket lavatories
at the end of their gardens 18 months after a new £170,000 sewer connection was
laid across their back gardens. The parish council chairman said it was
“unbelievable that people can stil live in these primitive conditions”. The new
sewer was completed in April 1973 and the former South Cambs council announced an
£80,000 programme for providing the houses at Allington Terrace, Bakersfield
cottages and Meadow cottages with modern toilets and bathrooms. These houses
contain young couples with children and pensioners. But still nothing happens

1949

About 16 years ago a house was built on the main Newmarket-Norwich road. It was to
accommodate the Chippenham constable and was put there because the Home Office said
they wanted police houses to be on the man road. The house was two miles form any
village, had no water laid on (but had a pump from its own well), had no
electricity and a sewerage system that was “a little bit ancient”. The constable
who had been there a number of years had resigned and the Chief Constable knew that
whoever he ordered into the house would at once give notice to terminate his
employment. Now the house is to be sold.

1924
Boisterous demonstrations were witnessed in the West End of London when hundreds of
Oxford and Cambridge undergraduates celebrated the annual Rugby match at played at
Twickenham. There were lively scenes in His Majesty’s Theatre during the
performance of “Patricia”, when some of the students threw glasses and four climbed
from a box on to the stage and rung down the curtain. Their action was resented by
the rest of the audience, including the Cambridge fifteen who played no part in the
disorderly proceedings

1899

John Weeds of the City Arms, Sturton street, Cambridge told the court he had a fowl
run on his premises. When he left home at one o’clock there were 22 birds in the
run. He returned the following day and found only there were only 16. The prisoner
was in the tap room the previous evening and knew fowls were kept in the yard. PC
Thompson had found him with a bag containing three hens which he said he’d bought
from a man in Sturton Street the previous night.

Tuesday 14th December

1974

This year for the first time in more than 30 years a group of Polish people will
have a family-style Christmas in their own homes. After the war they arrived in
this country as displaced persons or refugees. Because they were sick, they were
admitted to mental hospitals, and they did not learn the English language. The new
house, bought by the British Council for Aid to Refugees, has been simply but
comfortably furnished. As a group, they are now working out what they will have for
Christmas diner. The occasion marks the beginning of a new life
1949

8,000 people – representing a capacity house at every performance – saw the

Cambridge Amateur Operatic Society’s production of “The Yeoman of the Guard” at the
Arts Theatre. The society’s president said there is undoubtedly a great demand for
Gilbert and Sullivan operas in Cambridge and it has given special pleasure to know
that quite a large proportion of the house consisted of undergraduates

1924

Mr C. Phillips was born in Victoria street Ely and started to work on the railway
as an engine cleaner at Peterborough in 1876. Last year when rounding a bend near
Ely, he saw one of the crossing gates left shut across the line. Unable to arrest
the progress of his locomotive he crashed through the gate, part of which hung on
the buffer, the other part being flung through the gateman’s front window. A piece
broke the Westinghouse brake pipe on the engine and caused the brakes to act.
Nothing daunted Mr Phillips set to work to repair the damage, placing a penny in to
stop the leakage and in five minutes the train was under way again

1899

Messrs Benskins, brewers with a branch at St Neots, were summonsed for selling beer
in bulk without an excise licence at Eltisley. The beer was sent round to persons
who were usually customers and the drayman offered an 18 gallon cask to James
Millard who had it delivered to his farm. He usually ordered two casks at a time
and the beer was delivered to his brother’s farm premises. It was a technical
breach of the statute

Wednesday 15th December

1974

A once-and-for-all bid to tackle the flooding problem in the Swavesey area is to be

made by South Cambs district council. For years, farmers in the area have
complained about the flooding and the inadequacy of the Webb’s Hole sluice gate.
One said the problem would get worse, forming a threat to human and animal life,
unless something was done. A landowner described how in the recent heavy rains the
floods had completely covered a five-barred gate. The water had drained so slowly,
that, a month later, there were still floods of up to a foot deep.

1949

“We are very proud of our school meals service because we are now in a position to
give meals in all our schools”, commented the Hon Mrs Pearce

1924

Mr C. Mapey told the Cambridge Commercial Travellers’ Association that the Chamber
of Commerce were advocating factory sites in the town but he would dislike to see
Cambridge take on that commercial aspect her saw in the north. He believed that in
time Cambridge would be a suburb of London. It was only an hour and a quarter’s run
from the City and in a short time they would see the Jesus College estate so
developed they would not know it. The mayor said there was no need for a factory
town to be hideous if they thought what they were doing when they built the
factories.
1899

The frost continues with great severity in the fens. The University Skating Club at
Cambridge was opened yesterday. The ice was fairly thick, but rough. The moors at
Littleport were open to the public, but there was practically little skating
elsewhere. The National Skating Association were busy making the necessary
arrangements for bring off the Championships and other races and entered into
arrangement with the proprietor of the Littleport Club to hold the British
Championships at that resort.

Thursday 16th December

1974

A series of trials have given an insight into Cambridge’s drugs scene. It’s an
underworld you may never come close to, yet for the detectives of the
Cambridgeshire drugs squad it’s a very real world with its very own language. A
large cannabis cigarette is generally known as a joint or reefer, but may be a
“skliff” or “roach”. A single ounce of ordinary cannabis vegetable matter currently
fetches £18-£20. In August this year the drugs squad raided five Cambridge houses
simultaneously. In the past year 605 persons have been arrested for drug offences.

1924

The Maypole Dairy establishment in the Cury, Cambridge, is probably one of the few
shops in the town which will not experience a great deal of extra Christmas trade,
because their food products are so largely in demand throughout the year. The high
quality of their Maypole butter, May Queen margarine and Maypole flaked beef suet
is so well known and appreciated that it is regarded a necessity and not just a
Christmas luxury. Hence the good trade all the year round.

1899

The tripe season is now in full swing and the noted house for this commodity is
E.J. Edward’s, 36 Fitzroy St, Cambridge. Tripe is a valuable edible for dyspeptics
and other suffering from impaired digestion and as such there should be a good
demand for it during the ensuing festive season. Mr Edward’s name has been before
the public for the past 50 years as a tripe dresser and glaze manufacturer and
there is no doubt the stock he has laid in for Christmas will be more than equal to
the increased demand.

Friday 17th December

1974

There aren’t too many places in Cambridge where one can get a meal of any kind for
£1.25. So when a restaurant offers a choice of freshly carved beef, pork or lamb,
with a sweet, and as many vegetables as you care to take for that price it seems
too good to be true. That however is exactly what Jason’s Carving Rooms do at their
latest acquisition – the Red Lion at Grantchester. It has been completely re-
designed so that customers can enjoy comfort with their meals. Starters such as
melon or prawn cocktail are also available at extra cost.

1924

At Ely council the clerk read a letter asking that in view of the fatal drowning
accident they should minimise the grave danger to the public through there being no
warning notices that the continuance of Forehill to Waterside leads to the river.
There were a lot of strangers who, when descending Forehill mistook it for Back
Hill and kept straight on, instead of turning into Broad street. A car stopped on
the edge of the river recently. He suggested a lamp with ruby glass and white
letters bearing the words “Stop!. Danger. The River”

1899

Sir – will you allow me to appeal on behalf of journey-men bakers for one day’s
holiday this Christmas. Christmas Day being Monday there will be dinners to bake,
which will take up till two o’clock at least. Then at night there will be the work
of preparing sponge for Tuesday’s bread. With so many good things about there will
be not much bread wanted. I, myself, am serving 143 customers daily and there was
not one who did not seem anxious to do what they could for us. You will agree that
bakers’ work is very hard and trying with long hours and little pay and certainly
less holidays than any other trade – “Baker”

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 20th December

1974

East Anglian wage packets continue to be the smallest in the country according to
figures published by the Government today. The average annual income for 25-44
year-olds last years was £2,072 but the east Anglian average is only £1,182. House
prices appear to be amongst the highest in the country. The average house purchase
loan from mortgage societies was £6,002 against the national average of £6,181

1949

A suggestion that all buses should be compulsorily fitted with stop lights is to be
referred to the Eastern Accident Prevention Federation. The traffic manager said
few of the vehicles in present use were fitted with them. Ald. P.J. Watts, a
motorist with two million miles driving experience advocated having a dirty car
bonnet as a safety measure. “That is why I keep mine dirty. If your bonnet shines
headlights reflect off it and you cannot see. The only way to drive at night with
any safety is to drive with your bonnet dirty”

1924

Speaking to the Cambridge Motor Club the Mayor said that today it was quite easy
and within the means of most people to get a motor car. In 20 years they would have
thousands more cars on the road and what conditions were we likely to have with
regard to traffic and the storage of cars? Police had made it easy for those who
wished to park but in a few years time every place would be filled and they would
require something like Parker's Piece to provide parking accommodation for
Cambridge.
1899

An extraordinary account has just leaked out regarding a dog, which about ten days
ago was abandoned for dead, and subsequently interred in the back garden of a
cottage in Gwydir Street, Cambridge. For some days afterwards noises resembling the
pitiful moanings of a dog were heard by the neighbours. A week later a neighbour
noticed that something resembling steam was issuing from the soil at the bottom of
the garden. When the soil was removed the dog crawled out, wagging his tail with
apparent gratitude.

Tuesday 21st December

1974

Southend winger, Tommy Horsfall and Kettering youth team captain, Steve Fallon, are
both set to sign for Cambridge United as new manager Ron Atkinson moves in to the
transfer market for the first time. Fallon, an 18-year-old former March Grammar
School pupil could be the first Cambridgeshire boy included in the United first
team squad for years. “He is a lad who, with a bit of luck, could be gold-dust”,
said Atkinson

1949

A link with nineteenth-century Cambridge was broken last week when 79 year-old
William (“Little John”) Parish died suddenly. “Little John” – so called because he
was barely five-foot tall – was a waiter at the Lion Hotel for 50 years. He was
head waiter to two exclusive University dining clubs, the True Blue Club and the
Beef Steak Club, which were both limited to a membership of five. Both clubs met
every term at the Lion Hotel with members of the True Blue Club wearing powdered
wigs, blue knee breeches and buckled shoes and Beef Steak members black coats and
tails with silver buttons and buff waistcoats

1924

Sir - we in Clarendon Street, Cambridge, are pleased to see the road being
repaired, but cannot something be done to prevent the inhabitants being awakened at
half-past-three in the morning? At this unearthly hour the steam rollers are stoked
up and this continues every half hour and it is impossible for anyone in the
vicinity to get any sleep. If I were to make such a noise so early I should be
promptly called to order by the police for creating a nuisance -W. H. Thompson

1899

In noticing the entertainment given at the Conservative Club by the Cambridge

Pierrots, we would at the outset congratulate the management upon shortening the
programme. No more enjoyable evening can be spent in listening to the excellent
numbers contributed by that talented troupe but we may say that three hours is
somewhat of a strain on the troupe and audience alike. As it was a programme of
twenty-six items was got through. The sextette, "Oh! see the lambkins play" is
undoubtedly one of the best items

Wednesday 22nd December

1974

The economic crisis does not seem to have had any marked effect on the influx of
Christmas visitors to Cambridge hotels this year. All but one hotel in the city
says it is as full as it wishes to be. The Garden House Hotel closes down after
lunch on Christmas Day until New Years Eve & the University Arms Hotels closes half
its rooms to allow half its staff a free Christmas. The Gonville Hotel is “as full
as it wishes to be” but the manager of the Royal Cambridge Hotel said “we have only
about a third of last year’s Christmas booking so far”

1949

The Mayor of Cambridge, Ald W.G. James, spoke of the new town plan and said:
“Planning has ceased to be a phase in our national existence; it tends to be a
disease. Looking back through the ages I don’t think Cambridge is really such a bad
old town, and I think if the planning of our borough was left a little more to the
people who live in it – and have to pay for that planning – that we should not make
such a dreadful mess of it as people living outside think we might. Some of the
current proposals are so drastic that if I come back in 100 years I shall not be
able to recognise the Cambridge I knew. I believe in planning for the future, but
to live in chaos for a generation for the sake of one’s grandchildren is a little
too altruistic”

1924

A serious outbreak of fire occurred at the workshops of Mr Frank Morris, builder

and carpenter, of West End, Ely. The Ely City Fire Brigade under Lieut-Col G.L.
Archer, immediately rushed to the scene. The wind was now conveying flames towards
houses, some being of thatched roofs, but bands of willing helpers took up their
positions on ladders, while others rushed along with buckets of water to pour on
the outbuildings and thus stop the fire from spreading. The yard was a scene of
destruction, some of the workmen searched for their tools but could only find a few
that were burnt and twisted almost out of recognition.

1899

While making excavations at the junction of City Road and Fitzroy Street some
workmen in the employ of the Cambridge Electric Lighting Company came upon some
gruesome remains. They dug up some coffins. It is supposed the site is that of the
old burial ground of Eden Street chapel. The remains were removed to Mill Road
cemetery, where they were interred. For some reason efforts are being made to
prevent the real facts becoming known. The employees of the Electric Light
jealously guard what they deem an important secret, and refuse to give any details.

Thursday 23rd December

1974

Cambridge planners are looking at the possibility of turning the central library
buildings in Wheeler street into a Civic Restaurant when the library is moved into
a new building in the Lion Yard next Summer. The Library buildings are the centre
of a legal wrangle between the city and county council who have now taken over
responsibility for public libraries. The county claim the old library building
should be given to, it but the city is arguing that as the library forms part of
the Guildhall complex – the council’s administrative headquarters – the county has
no claim. The replacement of a Civic restaurant has been a top priority with the
new Labour-controlled city council since it took office nine years ago

1949

Does anyone know the whereabouts of a bore-hole at Heydon. Mr G.O. Vinter said that
in the 1890s the Metropolitan Water Board wanted to know if they could get water in
Cambridgeshire for London. A very large bore was put down in a field. South Cambs
R.D.C. engineers made enquiries as to whether the Metropolitan Board knew anything
about it, but they did not. He added: “My plan is to take a friend who is rather
good at water-divining and find out that way”. Meanwhile council officials will
make enquiries of an old gentleman who is believed to have worked on the land in
that district for the past 60 years.

1924

Claimed to be the biggest club of its kind in the county, the Waterbeach Parochial
Share-Out, Sick Benefit and Insurance Society divided up £1,330 among its 564
members. Preceding the share-out, 170 sat down to tea, and the proceedings were
rounded off by a concert. The society owes its origin to a desire to dissociate
share-out clubs from the publichouses. It was founded in 1917 largely by the
efforts of the clergy and has been attended with such gratifying results that
members are hoping to see similar societies spring up in other locations

1899

Mr H. Ayres of Tenison Road, Cambridge has just received another letter from their
son, Corporal Fred Ayres, in South Africa. He wrote : "I have seen what real
fighting is, and I do not wish to see much more. The bullets were flying all round
our heads on every side of us for a long time. It was a miracle that myself, as
well as so many more of us, came out alive. I believe that God was protecting me in
answer to your prayers. Do not worry too much on my account. I am only one of a
large number" - Fred

Friday 24th December

1974

It took them most of yesterday to get Lord Lascalles out of a ditch at Gt

Chesterford. They used heavy recovery cranes, a lot of sweat and a word or two that
you wouldn’t hear at midnight mass. His Lordship, a 20-ton traction engine
slithered down the side of the bank on his way to a charity do at Ickleton.
Uttlesford district councillor, Mr Stephen Neville, was behind the wheel when the
accident happened. The engine has raised over £400 for charity this year.

1949

Sir, I understand there are many homeless married students spending Christmas in
Cambridge. As I shall be away I should be very glad to allow them the use of my
house in order to enable them to enjoy a country holiday at Christmas. There would
be no rent charged, and the only return I ask is that they would feed a few small
animals which I would leave behind. My telephone number is Abbots Ripton 77 – N.
Burland, Lt Stukeley

1924

The Policeman in his time plays many parts, but it is doubtful if he ever plays
such a delightful part as members of the Cambridge Force did when the distribution
of gifts to the poor and needy took place. PC Hagger acted as butcher. Aproned in
the approved style and armed with a steel and murderous knives, he chopped and
boned joints of meat with a happy smile. Sergt Sharman wrapped up good things,
struggling with newspaper and grease-proof paper and slippery meat. Policewomen
Jude & Carnegie Brown dealt with the milk and looked after the children. Every
recipient met with a cheery wish for a Happy Christmas and all took their gifts
with a smile and profuse thanks

1899

The nigger troupe which came into existence under such happy circumstances some two
years ago at Waterbeach made another public appearance there when they gave a
successful entertainment in the schoolroom in aid of the local War Fund. The room
was crowded to the doors. Considerable pains had been taken in the arrangement of
the entertainment and the programme which contained no less than 20 numbers was
furnished and received with evident satisfaction
ALTERNATIVE LAST STORY

Following a well-established custom, the employees of the New Theatre Company,

whose duties are more particularly concerned with stage arrangements, gather at the
University Arms to partake of a substantial meal. The menu was characteristic of
the season and comprised roast beef, boiled and roast leg of mutton, with
vegetables, discussed to the accompaniment of English ale, followed by Christmas
pudding. Tobacco and cigars were supplied ad.lib. and for those whose tastes were
in that direction there was “a wee drappie of whiskie”

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 27th December

1974

Sir Hamilton Kerr, a former Conservative M.P. for Cambridge has died in a London
hospital. He represented Cambridge for 16 years from 1950 and lived at the Mill
House, Whittlesford. He was parliamentary private secretary to Harold Macmillan
between 1954 and 1956 and became a Baronet in 1957. He was a member of St John’s
college.

1949

1700 people crowded into Kings college chapel on Christmas Eve to listen to and
take part in the Festival of nine lessons and carols which was being broadcast by
the BBC for the 21st successive time. 801 of them were seated in the actual choir,
where hundreds of extra seats had been placed right up to the altar. The other 900
sat in the ante-chapel which also had several hundred additional chairs. 3 or 400
more people who formed a queue from the chapel gates to the college entrance were
accommodated in the hall, where the service was relayed.

Tuesday 28th December

1974

Home teams carried off the honours – or rather the beer – in Grantchester’s annual
Boxing Day barrel rolling race down the village’s main street. Both the winning
men’s and women’s team were from the Rose and Crown, Grantchester, whose landlord,
Mr Len Tanner, organises the race. The Rose and Crown team were in fact all on the
staff of Christ’s college, Cambridge organised and trained by their kitchen
manager, Mr John Bolton, and storeman Mr Ted Darling. Their recipe for success “I
had for whiskies before I started. I think the more you have the better you do”,
said Mr Gardiner

1949

Another Christmas has come and gone. Cambridge like every other town was outwardly
quiet in its celebrations, but in each home there was the usual excitement of the
early-morning peeps into the Christmas stockings. One of the few people working was
the postman, who, with a cheery knock on the door, dropped those last greetings
card on the map. A noticeable and pleasant fact was that the GPO seemed to have
held back parcels and letters from abroad so they could be delivered on Christmas
morning.

Wednesday 29th December

1974

More than 10,00 Cambridgeshire farm workers are bound to feel “disgusted and
insulted” by the proposed award from the agricultural wages board. They adjusted
their award of three weeks ago by 70p, raiding the minimum rate to £28.50 with a £2
increment in July. Although the county’s workers receive at least £3-£4 a week
above the minimum the Nation Union of Agricultural Workers organiser said a few men
might fall short of the workers’ minimum target of £35 a week

1949

An incident at Ely Quayside following a naval reunion dinner had a sequel in court
when a taxi driver appeared for alleged misconduct. Police said that following a
dinner at the Cutter inn defendant was waiting outside with his taxi. He allowed
seven passengers to get in the vehicles, which was constructed to carry four. He
then attempted to reverse where there was a decline to the river, but his brakes
failed to hold and the taxi over-ran the river bank. Two of the passengers opened
the door and stepped into the river. One had to be rescued and given artificial
respiration in the Cutter Inn

Thursday 30th December

1974

The controversial multi-million pound redevelopment proposals for Cambridge’s

Burleigh street – Fitzroy street area may be scrapped and traders and residents
encouraged to rebuild as they wish. This is just what the majority of them have
been advocating for most of the 15 years over which the controversy surrounding
plans for the revitalisation of the area has raged. Leading members of the City
council’s controlling Labour Group are now trying to whip up general support behind
the scenes for the new thinking. Moves come on the eve of the Government’s expected
announcement that after a two-year delay official approval is on the way to the
area to be declared as suitable for comprehensive redevelopment

1949

Cyril “Dreamin’ of thee” Fletcher is certainly a “lad” in Alladin. Although

surrounded by a number of talented people in this colourful show, Cyril is really
the king-pin of the production and adopting in the main something of that amusing
juvenile style, with attendant “blood-shot” voice for which he is famous, he may
said to be the perky Peter Pan of patter. With fresh complexion, very expressive
features, and startling arresting eyes, Cyril can be cherubic or piquantly elfish
by turns, and all this is combined in a vivid, friendly, and eminently likeable
personality that can piece the gloomy reserve of the most stolid of audiences with
all the magic of radar

Friday 31st December

1974

The Earith site of the Tracked Hovercraft trials is up for sale. The main “hangar”
area of 6,300 square feet of industrial floor space is on offer. The prototype
train ran at 107 mph before being scrapped in February last year because the
Government would not put in the £4 million necessary to finance the second stage of
the project which had, at that time, cost £5 m. The Government gave the go-ahead
last August for the dismantling of the three-mile test track. The technology is now
being pursued in Japan, Western Germany, France & Canada

1949

One of England’s favourite band leaders, Ted Heath, received a great welcome when
he played in Cambridge for the first time last night at the Rex Ballroom. Heath
fans turned up in their hundreds – the ballroom was filled to capacity – both to
listen and dance to the music of this top-line combination. At times the volume of
the band was rather too loud for the Rex – which was perhaps inevitable since it
consists of 18 players, but, on the whole, the maestro regulated the tone extremely
well. Ted Heath himself has been termed England’s “King of Swing”. His own ban has
been in existence for just over four years now. The second band for the evening was
the resident one on of Roy Richards and his Mayfair Music

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 3rd January

1975

Hundreds of Cambridge secondary school children would be disappointed if their

yearly opportunity to hear professional people speak had to be scrapped, Mrs K.
Joice Taylor, the secretary of the Cambridge Holiday Lecture Association said. This
was a real fear because it was now in debt and no grant money was available to
safeguard the event which has become a tradition during the past 12 years. Last
year in order to heat the lecture theatre during the fuel crisis, batteries were
used. This resulted in a big heating bill.

1950

There was a record crowd at the Embassy ballroom, Mill Road, Cambridge where over
500 people “danced-in” 1950 to the accompaniment of Freddy Webb and the resident
band. At midnight the chimes of Big Ben heard from a portable radio, brought a hush
in the crowded room and an illuminated sign bearing the figures ‘1950’ descended
onto the stage. Dancing stopped at midnight, but there was still half-an-hour to
welcome 1950 with the hit tunes of 1949 and it was a grand sing-song that brought
the evening to a close.

1925
As midnight approached a small group of about 200 brave souls gathered on Parkers
Piece, huddled together waiting for 1925. Fierce wet gusts swept by, the old year
was going down fighting stubbornly. As the hour approached a silence fell upon the
crowd. A minute before there was a flash and a whizz and 1924 split into a thousand
coloured lights in the sky. As the first chimes of the Catholic church battled with
the wind there came another flash, a soaring, roaring trail of light into the sky –
1925 had come.
1900

Farewell to 1899 and welcome to 1900 were symbolised by the two rockets that were
sent up from King’s Parade just before the stroke of 12 on New Years Eve. The
custom of discharging rockets has been religiously observed since 1825 by the Deck
family and it is now one of the established institutions of Cambridge life and a
much-looked-for feature of the season’s festivities.

Tuesday 4th January

1975

A petition calling for the replacement of the hundred-year-old St Andrew’s school,

Chesterton, is to be presented to a Minister at the Department of Education.
Efforts to get the school replaced have been going on for at least ten years. They
were lent greater urgency when, last October, a young teacher was injured by a lump
of plaster falling from the ceiling of one of the classrooms. Children at the
school make a ten-minute walk along a dangerous road to go to lunch each day at the
Shirley School in Green End Road

1950

Sanitary arrangements and general conditions at Longstanton church of England

school were found to be in “a most deplorable condition” by an Inspector who
visited after strong complaints from parents of children attending it. The report
states cesspool drainage is hopelessly ineffective and foul water floods the boys
offices frequently. School meals are prepared in the cloakroom which contains a
water tap but no drainage and the playground consists of 65 square yards of
unsurfaced ground rendered unusable by the discharge of rainwater gutters into it.
The chairman of the school managers said nothing could be done short of a major
work of reconstruction to the school’s sanitary arrangements

1925

The festive spirit was properly infused into Linton workhouse during Christmastide.
The gaily decorated dining room might have been mistaken for a fancy dress
ballroom. Streamers stretched from corner to corner while the artificial
butterflies settled on the curtains looked quite capable of fluttering on to the
artificial roses which embroidered the wainscoting of the room. The wireless set
and gramophone each played their part in providing entertainment during the day.

1900

Evison’s Manure Works, Ramsey, were destroyed by fire, damage to the extent of many
thousands of pounds being caused. Five hundred tons of sulphuric acid were released
through leaden tanks melting and the liquid flooded the premises. Considerable
quantities of the acid flowed into a branch of the River Nene, which is close to
the gutted factory, and thousands of fish were destroyed.

Wednesday 5th January

1975

The meteorological office at RAF Oakington, which has kept weather records and made
forecasts in Cambridgeshire since the second war is to close down. The closure of
the office brings a step nearer the hand over of the base in April to the army.
Flying has ceased now. The weather area was a 50-mile radius around Oakington for
flying purposes but forecasting for the public extended throughout Cambridgeshire

1950

Willingham water company will be asked if it will sell its undertaking to

Chesterton Rural District Council. As the company was not a statutory water
undertaking it could not be compelled to take its mains on to the Willingham
housing site at Over Road – although they were prepared to take it to the site’s
office. The Company said that at the moment they are definitely not prepared to
sell.

1925

The C.U. & College Servants Club have organised their first ball in the Large Room
of the Guildhall. It was attractively furnished with cosy chairs and settees ranged
round the sides of the hall. The brilliance of the lighting was toned down by the
judicious use of red shades attached to the electric globes, by which means a
pleasing mellow light was thrown upon the dancers. The front of the platform was
covered with masses of palms, ferns and other foliage plants. Sydney Coulson’s
orchestra provided the music for the dancing

1900

Few villages display so much religious activity as that which has characterised
Waterbeach. Not very long ago the Baptists entered upon a scheme for beautifying
their chapel. Encouraged by their success they have now undertaken the erection of
new Sunday Schools. The number of children who, Sunday after Sunday, are brought
under the influence of the loyal band of workers at the chapel exceeds 150. The
site has been acquired from the trustees of the Duke of Wellington

Thursday 6th January

1975

A big increase in the number of Mid-Anglia firms in financial trouble is shown in

figures for 1974 issued by the Department of Trade. They show that company
insolvencies went up five times on the 1973 figures and there were nearly twice as
many bankruptcies. 22 liquidations and 83 bankruptcies were handled by the
Cambridge office of the Official Receiver

1950

The January sales are in full swing in a number of local shops. As far as clothes
are concerned these are the first no coupon sales for eight years. At Laurie and
McConnal ‘s coloured cotton sheets were reduced from 58/5 (£2.90) pair to 40/-
(£2). Messrs Eaden Lilley had a queue of some 200 waiting when they opened on
Saturday. A few discontinued lines are still left and there remain bargains in
blouses and oddments in material at half price. An outstanding bargain is in prams,
which because of their delicate colour (beige), have hung fire and are being
heavily reduced.

1924
Messrs Bidwell & Sons report that for really small unrestricted building plots the
demand has been very good indeed and there are signs that it is increasing. This
demand comes in part from speculative builders but also from private individuals
wishing to build houses costing from £350 to £500 on their own freehold.

1900

The last scene in a long life of much usefulness to the county of Cambridge was
enacted at Trumpington when the funeral of Mr Henry Pemberton of Trumpington Hall
took place. The villagers unobtrusively gave expression to their heart-felt
sympathy. During the time mourners were assembling and during the funeral service
the blinds at almost every residence in the village were drawn, the few places of
business were closed, and at the corners passed by the cortege there were knots of
inhabitants who, with reverently uncovered heads, watched the body on its last
journey.

Friday 7th January

1975

The new face of Huntingdon will be shown to the world within two years if a £2m
redevelopment of the town centre goes ahead. It will provide a new cinema, public
houses, shops and offices in a complex stretching along the High Street from the
existing Hippodrome cinema to W.H. Smith. Several well-known buildings including
Fishers Department Store and the Queen’s Head public house will be knocked down.
Parking for 400 cars will be provided on a rooftop and a pedestrian arcade will
link the complex with the bus station and the High Street

1950

About half-a-dozen women bargain hunters waited all night for the opening of Messrs
Heyworth’s Sidney St, Cambridge, sale today. The first queuer had waited 15 hours
for a brown suit reduced from 79/6 (£3.95) to £1. All the fur coats marked down
from £37 to £10 have been snapped up but the main rush was in the children’s
section. It was expected that the bargains will just about last out the two days of
the sale.

1925

Schoolmasters complain that the wireless fascination is becoming a menace to

education. It is the exception for the schoolboy not to interest himself in
wireless and it is he who in a vast number of cases, has installed it in the home.
The youthful enthusiast usually makes his own set and prefers to occupy himself in
this way to poring over home lessons. Sometimes however there is no convenient
place in which to do his homework if the rest of the family want to listen to a
loud speaker. This should not be allowed by parents, and there is the alternative
of the silent head-phones.

1899

In view of the importance attached to the sterilisation of milk Messrs Arnold and
Tupling of the Alderney Dairy, Rose Crescent and Mill Road, Cambridge, have just
set up the most modern machinery and appliances for sterilising purposes. The milk
is supplied in transparent glass bottles with hermetically closed stoppers and in
the hottest weather will keep sweet for several days, provided it is kept in a cool
and untainted atmosphere
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 10th January

1975

Frogs are in decline in the fens but are turning up in East Anglia towns disclosed
A.S. Cook of the Monks Wood Experimental Station. “Traditional breeding grounds
have disappeared because of changes in agricultural practice which has destroyed
many natural habitats. Frogs have adapted by becoming more suburban than rural and
shown a marked trend towards towns with places like St Ives becoming very frog-rich
areas”. The revival of the frog had occurred partly as a result of children
bringing tadpoles from the rivers to their garden ponds

1950

Results for the 2,600 growers who supply the Ely Beet Sugar Factory have been
poorer for many years in the campaign which has ended after a run of only 87 days,
the shortest for a long time. Not only was the yield per acre of just over 8.3 tons
low, but the sugar content of beet handled averaged no more than 14.73%, the lowest
for the factory in the history of the corporation.

1925

One of the six new sugar beet factories is now in course of erection at Ely. It
will be the fourth beet sugar factory in the country with a capacity of 1,200 tons
per day. Over 160 men are employed upon the site and the foundations for the
factory are ready. When the factory is complete 600 men will be employed. A supply
of 10,000 acres of beet on contract for three years is required and 5,000 acres
have already been secured

1900

A whirligig proprietor was summoned for driving horses and vehicles on to the
village green at Borough Green and doing damage to the amount of sixpence.
Afterwards they fixed swings and roundabouts there. The things were spread about so
as to prevent the green being used as a playground as usual. Alfred Ward, (56) said
that from his boyhood the green had been used for games by village boys and girls.
It was only within the last ten years the fair people had taken their stand on it.
They were fined 30s for refusing to leave

Tuesday 11th January

1975

The road across Oakington airfield linking it with Longstanton may be reopened to
buses, cyclists and pedestrians. It was closed 18 years ago when the airfield was
established. County Surveyor Mr Robert Lacey said he doubted if there was a case
for the reopening of the road to all traffic because the building of the Bar Hill
flyovers nearby would give a better access to Longstanton than through neighbouring
villages

1950
The Christmas party of the Birdwood Club was held in the Round Church Hall. Founded
at the beginning of the last war it extended to British members some of the
hospitality so generously extended in Cambridge to those from other nationalities.
There was a record attendance of over 200 members of all ages. Thanks to the usual
generous pooling of rations and gift parcels from Australia, Canada, Rhodesia and
British forces overseas, a bountiful tea was provided.

1925

The Matron of Saffron Walden workhouse reported unfavourably on the effects of a

wireless set. All of the inmates are in bed by 8 o’clock and it was thought that
the class of entertainment provided before that hour would be unsuitable for them
and would do harm to the sick in the infirmary. A gramophone could be moved from
ward to ward. If a gramophone was provided they did not want noisy records, but
old-fashioned family tunes. It was hoped the public would pass on any old records
they did not want.

1900

The Ouse Drainage Board was not popular with a small band of farmers gathered for
the sale of goods distrained for non-payment of rates in the Bedford area.. Two
sets of harness were offered and somebody pointed to a rent in the halter. The
crowd, desiring opportunities of closer inspection, surged forward and the
auctioneer was pushed off his chair. Somebody bid a shilling but the auctioneer
would not take it and the man holding the harness became involved in an argument
with another. The lot was withdrawn

Wednesday 12th January

1975

Surgeons at New Addenbrooke's hospital carried out their first open-heart

operation. The patient was a 15-year-old boy whose condition is “very
satisfactory”. The operation posed no problem. It was the type carried out
regularly at Papworth Hospital but its significance is that patients coming into
the hospital’s accident service will be able to get heart surgery on the spot
without having to be transported all the way across the county. The operation was
carried by Mr T.A.H. English in association with Prof Roy Calne

1950

Mr Owen Duce of Scrapbanks works, Newmarket Road, Cambridge, told an inquiry that
he used the pit for dumping waste from his scrap business & also accepted other
materials such as brick rubble and old wire, but no domestic rubbish which might
give rise to vermin or the risk of fire. He has recently erected a high steel fence
along the road frontage. It has already resulted in the production of 4,000 tons of
scrap for steel works besides valuable quantities of platinum for export.

1925

A fire broke out in the Grand Jury Room at the Shire Hall which destroyed all the
woodwork and furniture. It is a large room is situated at the front of the building
on the Police Station side and contained a table and some chairs. A stairway leads
from it to the grand jury gallery in the Crown Court and it was through the fire
roaring up these stairs that damage was done to the court by smoke and steam.

1900
There were no doubt religious services at Fordham on Christmas Day, but with a
goodly number of the youth of the place the attraction of the church proved less
powerful than those of a public house. A policeman found a large congregation in a
room but in less than a minute he was left alone with a table, a box of dice and
some coppers. It needed not a Sherlock Holmes to arrive at the conclusion that
gambling had been forward and the gamblers had scarpered. It is an unmitigated evil
that children should be encouraged to gamble. Let those who have a care for the
moral welfare of Fordham look to it

Thursday 13th January

1975

The Department of Environment’s plan to make the proposed A1-M1 link a single
carriageway road is to be reconsidered following criticism. The proposal to make
the road a single carriageway for most of its length has been widely attacked by
road hauliers, motoring associations and farmers.

1950

Cambridge’s chief sanitary inspector says the stalls on Market Square are
unnecessary. “We don’t like these open-air stalls at all, and I don’t see that in
1950 we need them at all. I think it is an anachronism”. Questioned about dogs that
‘wet and sniff all over the place’ he said he had spoken to stallholders and asked
if they did not realise that people had to eat vegetable which had been fouled by
dogs

1925

Petty Cury and Market Street, Cambridge, today commenced their career as one-way
streets with the object of relieving congestion in these streets whose narrowness
has ever been the subject of discussion. Petty Cury will only be used for vehicular
traffic towards Market Hill. At present these regulations do not apply to bicycles.
A policeman agreed that someone was bound to make a mistake – “It wouldn’t be
Cambridge if they didn’t”, he said

1900
In February of last year the hospitality of the columns of the C.D.N. was extended
to Mr Clark of Swaffham Prior by the publication of a letter with reference to his
difference with the vicar. It was strongly worded and calculated to provoke a
vigorous rejoinder. When a reply was received it was inserted. The contents annoyed
him so much that he instructed a London solicitor to write asking for the name of
the anonymous ‘Lover of truth’ to be given up to him. When informed this could not
for one moment be considered he elected to proceed with an action of libel against
the newspaper. It is one of the traditions of British journalism that the
confidence reposed in a newspaper by those who write and desire that their names
should not be made known is sacred. It is a matter of satisfaction that a jury has
exonerated us from blame and that our fairness and judgement has been vindicated

Friday 14th January

1975
Cambridge dons are thinking of limiting the ultimate size of the University to
14,000 students. The University General Board says also that they should also be
allowed to run against current policies which are producing more arts than science
students. That means persuading the University Grants Committee that Cambridge is
an exception to the rule and must be allowed to retain its pre-eminence in
sciences, notably engineering and mathematics

1950

Members of the employment committee visited Trumpington Industrial Hostel and

commented on the satisfactory manner in which the camp had been converted into
reasonable accommodation. There were dining rooms, dormitories to accommodate about
six men each, a theatre, laundry and ironing facilities and good reception
arrangements. Although the premises were not ideal they thought the hostel was
remarkable satisfactory and very useful;.

1925

The County Education committee recommended that the proposals for the extension of
the existing Soham Grammar School building be not proceeded with, that the
buildings be disposed of and that the council sanction the purchase of “Beechurst”
and a site of seven acres. The building to be adapted to provide for six classrooms
and a chemical laboratory for approximately 160 pupils, and house accommodation for
the Headmaster and eight boarders.

1900

Bendysh Hall, Saffron Walden, was partly destroyed by fire. It broke out in a
bedroom in close proximity to where Mr Bennett Pell’s invalid father slept, and in
which room a fire was continually kept burning. It was from the beam in the chimney
of this room that the fire is supposed to have originated. One half of the
building, consisting of the entrance hall, drawing room, ante-room, bedrooms, dairy
and other rooms were gutted.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 17th January

1975

Liquid manure was used to stifle a
began to lick round the fuel tank.
tons of flour. He tried to put the
would spread to the fuel tank. But
tanker stopped.
lorry fire on the A1 near Buckden just as flames
The driver was on his way to Doncaster with 20
fire out with mud and grass as he was afraid it
just as he was beginning to despair a fertiliser

1950

Crowding into the Gardiner Memorial Hall at Burwell, fenland farmers and
smallholders decided to form an action committee to fight a Ministry of Agriculture
proposal to put 6,550 acres of lands in the Swaffham Prior and Burwell fens into
state ownership. The area contains a good proportion of large blocks of land of 100
acres or more. If the land were purchased it would be at compulsory purchase value,
without consideration for potential value
1925

The final contingent of happy kiddies crowded into the Drill Hall, East Road and
emulated the example set by their predecessors. The clamour of half a thousand
happy young lungs and energetic tongues was present throughout the proceedings.
Cheery children of all ages participated in the scenes of revelry, four-year old
toddlers giving utterance to their gratification with gurgles of joy as sincere as
the shouts of the elder children were loud.

1900

A campanological, vocal and instrumental entertainment was given by the Walford

Family at the Cambridge Guildhall. One instrument of their invention is the
Hydroaktulopsychichamonica, or aqueous musical glasses, on which selections were
very prettily played.

Tuesday 18th January

1975

After nearly seven years of having to travel two miles for a drink, Reach villagers
may soon be getting a pub of their own. Mr Michael Warrington of Church Farm House
has applied to magistrates for a provisional licence to sell drink from his home.
The last pub in Reach was the White Horse which closed in December 1967. If the
application is approved the pub will be called Dykes End.

1950

A system of floodlighting to facilitate football training on dark evenings was

inaugurated on the recreation ground at Willingham. Floodlights for this purpose
is an entirely new departure in this district and was provided by the village
football and supporters club at a cost of over £120. The Secretary of the County
Football Association suggested the next thing to better the ground would be the
erection of a stand. “This club has risen from humble beginnings to be one of the
soundest in this county”, he said
.
1925

The well-known Cambridge brewery business which has been carried on for 28 years in
Panton Street by Messrs Bailey & Tebbutt is to change hands. They acquired the
brewery in 1897. At that time they were carrying on the Granta Brewery under the
name of “Robinson & Tebbutt”. Mr Bailey’s late father was owner of the Star
Brewery. The business has now been acquired by Messrs Greene, King & Sons.

1900

An action for libel was brought by Mr W.E. Humphreys, proprietor of the “Cambridge
Magazine” against Mr H.D. Catling, proprietor of “The Cantab” with the “Cambridge
Gazette” company as co-defendants. Mr Humphreys said he was asked to contribute to
“The Cantab” and it was arranged that if the paper was a success he should receive
a quarter of the profits, but he received no profit at all. There was a verbal
agreement by which he was to buy “The Cantab” for £10 but it fell through and he
resolved to start the Cambridge Magazine

Wednesday 19th January

1975

Until Sainsbury’s opened their new filling station alongside the supermarket in
Coldham’s Lane, Holland Motors at the end of Mill Road provided the cheapest
petrol in Cambridge. Sainsbury’s station opened this week offering 4-star petrol
only and no other forecourt services. Their price of 68p a gallon is regarded as
something of an opening offer. Holland motors comes second with 4-star at 71p a
gallon. The dearest is Oliver Rix at 74p

1950

A proposal that Cambridge University should be asked to X-ray all candidates for
admission was made at the Hospital Board meeting. Pre-entrance examination, which
would reveal the presence of tuberculosis would save a lot of disappointment in
cases where it was eventually detected. Recently at Papworth there were 11
undergraduates occupying beds for which there was a huge local waiting list. The
Master of St Catherine’s college said his men were examined as soon as they came up

1925

The third and final distress sale ordered by the Ouse Drainage Board took place. 25
lots including crops, gold watches, bean drill, milk cooler and other articles were
offered for sale but they were all withdrawn, as the bids did not go beyond one
shilling. The first lot to be offered was a sporting gun. After the crowd had sung
“Rule Britannia” a shilling was bid. The lot was withdrawn. The next lot met a
similar fate. The crowd then gave a pathetic and heart-stirring rendition of “Shall
we gather at the river”. After this the proceedings were enlivened by a series of
solos played by the happy possessor of a tin trumpet. A silver biscuit barrel was
next. Instead of bidding the crowd sang(?) “To be a farmer’s boy” and “John Brown’s
body” followed by “Tipperary”. When the auctioneer called for “three cheers” for
the Ouse Drainage Board the response was “three boos”

1900

Messrs Headley & Edwards told an inquiry that Cheddar’s Lane afforded access to the
brickyard belonging to Thoday and Co.Ltd who were large employees of labour in
Cambridge and a very great deal of the traffic passed between the brickyards and
Newmarket Road. As a result the lane was in a very bad condition.

Thursday 20th January

1975

The wave of redundancy and short-time working announcements this week has heralded
the arrival of the long-predicted industrial recession. Nowhere are the effects
more keenly felt than at Haverhill. A pioneer in town expansion, its 20-year
transfusion of industry and workers from the greater London area is now in a
painful adolescent stage. Major town centre building projects have just left the
drawing board, large chunks of lands are prepared for the final flood of factories
and housing schemes worth £7½ m are under way to provide the workers with homes.
Now the impetus is being lost as the cash flow stops and firms cut back.

1950

In these days, when it not always easy to let the ballroom for a dance, it is
unusual to hear of the Cambridge Guildhall being booked two consecutive nights in
order to accommodate all those wishing to attend a function. This happened when the
Cambridge Co-operative Society held their annual staff party for 900 employees and
friends. Special trains brought them from Duxford, Melbourn, Burwell, Willingham
and Bishop’s Stortford.

1925

Certain alterations are to be made in the railway station at Cambridge. The

L.N.E.R. propose to extend the main line platforms at each end so that the whole of
long trains may be accommodated. The goods yards on the Cherry Hinton side are to
be re-arranged and extended for the storage of carriages. Up to the present the old
Newmarket line had been used but this is being handed over to Jesus College and the
Corporation in connection with the building of the new arterial road from Cherry
Hinton to Romsey Town

1900

Foe the second time since the Boer ultimatum the consequences of war have been
brought very close to Cambridge. This morning there was a second demonstration in
which Town and Gown joined hands in a common feeling of respect for those who,
though not compelled by laws to leave the old country, were nevertheless anxious to
lend a hand in the war. Shortly after ten o’clock the special train steamed out of
the siding, kisses were blown and the Volunteers who will represent Cambridge at
the front were out of sight, but not out of mind
Friday 21st January

1975

The question of whether to re-open the road across Oakington airfield is developing
into an inter-village row. Villagers at Oakington and Girton say they do not want
the road opened to traffic, but a number of people at Longstanton are in favour of
the idea. The chairman of their parish council pointed out the new flyover on the
A604 would cut out most of the inconvenience and danger to motorists and this may
well be completed before any decision on the airfield road is taken.

1950

One Cambridge girl was killed and five others detained with serious injuries when a
USAAF service bus crashed headlong into a telegraph pole at Newmarket. They were
returning to their Cambridge home after attending a camp dance and party at
Lakenheath airfield. American service personnel attended the scene with crash
tenders but it was five hours before traffic could use the Cambridge road

1925

Two Linton labourers were summoned for making false representation to obtain
unemployment benefit. They lived six miles from the Labour Exchange and were
allowed to make their claims by post. It was found that when claiming out of work
pay they had been employed two days as beaters and had received 5s.6d. per day,
with beer and lunch. They were sent to prison for three weeks with hard labour

1900

Mr G.W. Rawlinson of Mill Road, Cambridge has received a letter from Private
Caswell, who is well known in the town. He writes: “at daybreak we attacked the
Boers who were holding a low-lying hill from which they poured a very severe fire.
We kept steadily on till we were within 100 yards of them, when we fixed bayonets
and charged them. In retiring they had to cross a valley. We poured volley after
volley into them with deadly effect. Later I was struck on the ankle by a shell
which did not burst and which has made be an invalid for a fortnight”

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 24th January

1975

A call for Cambridge to opt out of East Anglia and become part of the northern Home
Counties came from the Council’s Labour leader, Peter Wright. He believes this
would benefit the city and lead the Government to consider it more favourably. His
call comes in the wake of the publication of a government-sponsored report on the
future of East Anglia which suggested holding back Cambridge’s development. This is
in direct conflict with the city council’s view of seeing Cambridge opened up to
industrial development in a bid to increase local job prospects and expand the
economy

1950

University representation in parliament has been abolished by the recent

Representation of the People’s Act. Amongst those deprived of their seats are the
two Cambridge University members, Dr Kenneth Pickthorn (conservative) and H. Wilson
Harris (independent). Mr Harris has not sought another constituency but is waiting
to see whether Mr Churchill will be in a position to restore the University seats

1925

If there are any readers contemplating building or purchasing houses in Cambridge

they may be interested to note that the Corporation are prepared in suitable cases
to offer a subsidy of £100 per house or an advance on mortgage of an amount not
exceeding 90% of the value of a house not exceeding £1,500. Loans must be repaid
within 20 years at the rate of 5% per annum.

1900

To the accompaniment of an outburst of patriotic sentiment three of the Volunteers

attached to the Royston Company of the 1st Volunteer Batallion Beds Regiment left
on Tuesday afternoon. Nearly the whole of the townspeople, including the tradesmen,
turned out to wish “our citizen soldiers” God speed and good luck. The little band
of Volunteers looked spick and span in their scarlet uniforms. The Royston Military
Band were present and the very lively and good-tempered crowd entered heartily into
the patriotic airs they played. The enthusiasm of the scene will remain long on the
memory of Royston people.

Tuesday 25th January

1975

Cambridge councillors will consider the possibility of turning the old Corn
Exchange into an ice-skating rink if plans for converting it into a multi-purpose
public hall fall through. Alternatively it might be possible to build the ice rink
on spare land between the Parkside swimming pool and the Sports Hall complex. The
proposal comes from the Ice Rink Action Group who say there is a growing demand for
an ice rink in Cambridge

1950
An attempt to find Heydon’s “lost” borehole by means of a mine detector proved
unsuccessful. The bore hole, sunk in the 1890s by South Essex Water Board and
afterwards abandoned, is now sought by South Cambs. R.D.C. as being of possible use
in a new water scheme. It is believed the bore was sealed with a metal plate which
would cause a reaction in a mine detector if not too deeply buried. Some nails,
part of an old mole trap and a broken ploughshare were all that was found.

1925
A man employed with the Cambridge Window Cleaning Company met with a nasty
accident. He was cleaning the windows of the Union Society building when he felt
his extending ladder slip. Under the impression the ladder was about to collapse he
jumped for the ground but fell on some spiked railings which surround the area, one
of which entered his thigh. After the accident the Union Society gave orders for
the removal of the spikes so as to prevent a similar accident occurring again.

1900

The Cambridge Co-operative Society has erected spacious new premises in Burleigh
street. The building is imposing and by contrast with the other not very ornate
premises in Burleigh street is rendered all the more conspicuous. On the ground
floor are spaces for the butchery, drapery and boot and shoe department. The first
floor is well laid out for other branches with a ready-made clothes emporium and on
the top floor is a really fine meeting room. The old building in Fitzroy street
will be retained for the grocery portion of the business.

Wednesday 26th January

1975

A Little Paxton housewife is desperately trying ot get rid of an expensive pet

which is slowly destroying any furniture within pecking range. Percy, a four-year
old blue and gold macaw has wreaked havoc since he was given as a Christmas
present. He so far gnawed chunks out of an expensive dining table and chairs near
his perch.

1950

Full details of a proposal to build a new Technical College at Trumpington road,

Cambridge were submitted. The scheme calls for capital expenditure of over £1 m &
has the full backing of the Ministry of Education. It is proposed to build in two
stages, 1951-54 and 1954-57. Hopeless overcrowding in the existing premises has
accounted for the fact that the scheme is being pressed.

1925

Fulbourn Hospital medical superintendent reported that at various times concerts

were given to the patients, but they seemed to like cinema performances more than
anything, and he was looking forward to the time when they had a cinema there. He
was told that the hospital was ideally situated for a wireless installation. Diet
was satisfactory and the farm supplied all the milk required, also fresh vegetables
and pork.

1900
St Ives Rural Council considered the state of the roads. They were not very good
and the surveyor could not make them so without the use of a steamroller. The
question of expense was not a very serious one as shown by the Ramsey Council
purchasing a roller. They generally considered themselves equal to Ramsey Council,
but they were certainly behind them. The cost was £470. The chairman said the roads
were not in a bad state and the only complaints they received were from cyclists
who did not contribute one penny to the rates.

Thursday 27th January

1975

Meteorologists at Honiton recorded gusts of up to 56 knots and an average wind of

gale force eight during storms which swept the region leaving a trail of damage. At
Swaffham Bulbeck the roof of the Girl Guides hut was lifted up and deposited on the
village’s fire station roof.

1950

100 years of service to the community by the Cambridge Building Society was
celebrated with a centenary dinner. The Cambridgeshire Permanent Benefit Building
Society was established 21st January 1850. Its first advance was £150 on ten
cottages in Bottisham Lode. Ald James referred to the tragedy of the housing
problem, describing it as like a hidden leprosy, undermining the social life of the
country, breaking up homes and families and probably causing more communism than
any political speeches. The possession by young married couples of their own homes
would do a lot to prevent the breaking up of family life

1925

Messrs G.P. Hawkins Ltd were summoned for employing five young women and a lad of
17 in their bakery at Parsonage Street, Cambridge on a Sunday. They had been asked
to come in to do some finishing work that had got behind owing to the Christmas
rush. The Inspector of Factories admitted that the bakery was in many respects
ideal and that if the work had been done at the Dorothy Café it could have been
done without any interference. Mr Hawkins was always opposed to Sunday work,,
although it was well known that other firms opened on Sunday.

1900

A large warehouse at St Ives occupied by Councillor Bullard, rod merchant, for the
storage of osier rods caught alight. The fire when first discovered was raging in
the middle story of the building at the end nearest the river but within a quarter
of an hour the whole place was a mass of fire, owing to the inflammable nature of
its contents. The whole of the woodwork was destroyed and nothing but the bare
walls of the huge warehouse now remain. Mr Bullard’s dwelling house was only
separated by the roadway and his children were quickly taken from their beds,
wrapped up in blankets, and removed to a place of safety.

Friday 28th January

1975

The number of homeless families in the Huntingdon, St Neots area is rocketing.

Scores of families have been made homeless after being evicted from tied houses or
finding themselves unable to keep up with mortgage repayments. Hundred more are
living with friends while they join the already-long waiting lists for council
houses. The three-day week threw a lot of people on hard times, especially young
men with wives and families with large mortgages. An official said the housing
situation was “hellish” and was getting worse all the time

1950

A Newmarket branch of the Trustee Savings Bank was opened in the High Street at
premises which once housed a milk bar. There was a general burst of laughter when
Dr Alex Wood referred to the opening of the premises as a “great act of faith”
because as he explained, the industry for which Newmarket was famous was one which
was not usually associated with thrift or savings.

1925

The rector of Hardwick said that the rectory garden had been used since the rectory
had been built 75 years ago. It was the nearest piece of arable land. It
temporarily ceased to be used as a garden owing to a change of incumbents and the
outbreak of war. Then the rector went on war service and did not return to his
duties in Hardwick. In 1920 the rectory garden was included in a demand for
allotments and nothing was said to him when he was appointed. He had been pressing
for its return since 1922. He was now buying for his house vegetables that should
be grown on the rectory garden.

1900

An Indian Prime Minister engaged a cab to attend a dinner at Downing college,

Cambridge, and made an engagement for the driver to call at his lodgings to convey
him back to the station next morning. The cab never turned up and driven to
extremity the minister prevailed upon a passing milkman to take his portmanteau to
the station. Being a pretty good runner he started off but became exhausted and got
into the milk cart which contained his luggage. Not wishing to be recognised he
took off his turban and turned his collar up, hiding his face. His Highness was
naturally in no good humour. Such an incident cannot fail to give the town a bad
name

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 31 January
1975

World records don’t fall very often, but one took a hammering in Gt Shelford when
Robert Manderson of Stapleford sang for nine hours without a break and that took
care of the existing record for non-stop singing in the Guinness Book of records.

1950

Dr Alex Wood, chairman of Cambridge housing committee, spoke of the terrible need
for housing. He quoted one case where a woman, her sister and one child were
sleeping on the landing of a house, where her parents were sleeping in the only
bedroom. The husband was not able to sleep in the house at all. There was another
child expected for which there was no room at all. “That kind of case is fairly
common”, he said. There was no option but to use requisitioned or old property such
as houses in Saxon street

1925
A recent advertisement in the C.D.N. offering a house to let brought 131 replies
the first day. After three days the figure reached was 412. Quite an interesting
commentary on the number of people who want a house and the power of the C.D.N. as
an advertising medium

1900
The Pot Ash at Radwinter was considered at the Saffron Walden licensing sessions.
This was situated in a very remote part of the parish, with only a few cottages on
a bye road. There were five licensed houses in the parish with a population of 790.
No parishioners would regret the house being closed. The most important application
was the surrender of the licences of two houses in Chrishall, the Greyhound and the
Gate, a dilapidated cottage with a thatched roof . If both closed it would leave
only one licensed house, the Red Cow, for a population of 547. Brewers now supplied
beer in gallon jars so many people did not go to public houses for what they
required.

Tuesday 1st February

1975

King’s will be the first Cambridge college to experiment with non-meat meals
following a campaign by Survival, the conservation group. The meals will be offered
to assess student reaction. Another college, Christ’s, has turned down the
experiment but three more are considering the idea. Efforts to involve Cambridge
restaurants in providing more vegetarian meals have so far drawn a poor response.

1950

Notice of the first compulsory purchase order ever to be made in Cambridge by the
central Land Board is given today. It is in respect of a plot of land on the
western side of Strangeways Road, Cherry Hinton and authorises them to purchase the
land for the purpose of disposing of it for development. Their object is to make
land available at the proper price for persons who have a licence to build a house.

1925

The county council were told by Councillor Tebbutt there was no great need to
provide for houses for the police, because the police were well paid and in a much
better position to get houses than many other people in the county. Coun. Webb said
they all knew the police were a most deserving body and jolly good fellows but he
did not believe they wanted to pay as little as 3s.6d. a week rent when the
ratepayers had to pay 15s.6d. Ald Howard thought authorities should provide houses
for their own policemen. At present police were occupying houses which were badly
needed by other people

1900
Graces are to be submitted to the Senate of Cambridge University to authorise the
Vice Chancellor to grant the use of the Senate House for a meeting to consider an
increased establishment of the University Rifle Volunteers, and to allow the use of
the Senate House as a drill room for recruits at times when it is not required for
University purposes
Wednesday 2nd February

1975

Cambridgeshire chief constable, F. Drayton Porter, suggested that the defunct RAF
station at Oakington could be used to house the county’s problem children. This
would prevent them being held in police stations and prisons when there was nowhere
else for them to go. “This kind of accommodation could well be ideal. After all the
housing of the Ugandan Asians in RAF stations was done in a matter of days”, he
said. A plan to build a prison for young offenders on part of the disused Duxford
airfield was dropped in 1973.

1950

Though the personal appearance of the well-known broadcasting ventriloquist Peter

Brough with his dummy, Archie Andrews, was a notable feature of the Pentacle Club’s
“Cavalcade of Magic” it did not overshadow the contributions of other members of
the club. It was founded just over 30 years ago to promote the study of conjuring,
juggling and allied arts in the University. “Mysteries of the mind” introduced a
spot of telepathy with James Webber and Betty Schofield doing the “Piddington” act

1925

Flight-Lieut Cairns of the Duxford Flying School was injured in an accident whilst
flying at Steeple Bumpstead. About noon the plane was observed to be in
difficulties and crashed towards the ground. The airman jumped from the machine
when near the ground and although he escaped death he was found to be suffering
from somewhat serious injuries when admitted to Addenbrooke's hospital.

1900

William Hammond of the White Swan, Staffordshire Street, Cambridge, was summoned
for allowing a horse to stray in Norfolk Street and pleaded guilty. PC Leonard
Savidge stated that he found the horse straying and placed it in the Walnut Tree
Pound. Defendant, who said the pony was left on the common, was fined 2s.6d.

Thursday 3rd February

1975

A complete Cambridge college – the second in eight years – is being offered for
sale on the open market at an unspecified price, thought to be in the region of £1
million. Ridley Hall is for sale following a decision in 1971 to enter into
federation with two other Anglican training colleges, In 1967 Cheshhunt college in
Bateman Street was sold for in excess of £225,000.

1950

“I feel that beerhouses are an anachronism” said the Cambridge chief constable at
the Borough licensing meeting. “They were invented in the days when spirits were
very cheap and was done to prevent people from imbibing too much gin. Nowadays
people can’t afford too much spirits. I now see little difference between a full
licence and a beer licence”. The committee considered an application for a full
licence by the licensee of the “Dew Drop” beer house, Gwydir street. He said
members of visiting darts teams asked for “shorts”
1925

Cambridge Housing and Town Planning committee recommended the council purchase land
at the junction of Milton Road and King’s hedges road for £2,400. It was light
soil, very suitable for the erection of houses. The Council had never bought land
at such a cheap rate. Ald Starr said a very serious objection was that Milton road
was not sewered up to that point and it would cost something up to £8,000 to lay
the sewers required.

1900

The snowstorm at Cambridge had very serious effects upon the telephone service in
consequence of the wires being exposed. On Saturday no less than 100 subscribers of
the local company were affected and although the company has brought in assistance
from Norwich to hurry the repairs it must be two or three days before the complete
system is restored. The company is endeavouring to arrange for permission to lay
the whole of the wires underground so the general public will be saved a repetition
of the present serious inconvenience.

Friday 4th February

1975

Cambridgeshire MP Mr Francis Pym, has been asked to fight for the Tory leadership.
He paid tribute to the former leader, Ted Heath. Mrs Thatcher’s success was
remarkable and he thought she was likely to win the second ballot. Cambridge MP, Mr
David Lane, said “Conservatives now face a difficult period, but our loyalty to the
party is even stronger than to any individual. Whoever is elected can rely on
united support

1950

A start has been made on the construction of 38 garages on the Walpole Road housing
estate in Cambridge using a new system of mortar less block construction known as
“Dri-crete”. This patented concrete block is the invention of a local businessman,
Mr B.F. Hartley, who has been a manufacturer of concrete products for several
years. The British Art Tile Company of Cambridge and Whittlesey are the patentees
and manufacturers.

1925

The recommendation of the Watch Committee that Cambridge Town Council purchase for
the sum of £5,500 the Fountain public house, St Andrew’s street, for the purpose of
extending the police and fire brigade stations was not adopted. Coun. Few said they
had heard a lot about not being able to afford works of utility, now they were
proposing to buy premises and pull them down, thereby using skilled labour which
might be used in building houses. Coun. Kenney asked if the brigade needed to be in
such a prominent position

1900

Cambridge Adverting Company reported that the hoarding in Victoria Road, Chesterton
was in course of enlargement and one at Shelford has recently been enlarged to meet
the demand for country posters. An additional hoarding has been secured at the
Traveller’s Rest, Huntingdon road, and is open to still further enlargement. The
secretary and foreman billposter had been most attentive to their duties
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 7th February

1975

The Cambridge area property market offers a broad range of housing at the moment.,
It ranges from Ridley Hall to a tiny disused telephone exchange at Bottisham. Other
exchanges at Cheveley and Steeple Morden are also on the market as STD spreads
through the Cambridge telephone area. Some of them have possibilities as bijou
cottage residences but buyers have to go on the waiting list for a telephone

1950

A modest world champion who attributes his achievements rather to “the luck of the
game” is Cambridge-born Tommy Price. After an eventful career ever since he first
rode a motor cycle in his back garden at the age of 8, Tommy last year became the
world speedway champion. He was born in Oxford Road and left Cambridge at 13 for
London. He did everything for himself – even the building and assembly of his
machines.

1925

Cambridge council considered the application of Mr J. Sanders of Petty Cury,

seedsman, for a licence to sell certain poisonous weed-destroyers, varpourising
compounds and insecticides. It had been said they must not allow seedsmen to sell
these compounds because people might buy poisons in order to kill their wives.
(Laughter). It was not much good buying them from a chemist unless he had expert
knowledge of gardening, whereas a seedsman could advise on their best use in the
garden. The licence was granted

1900

His comrades at Cambridge police station have received a letter from Private A.
Goodchild, giving a very interesting account of the mishap to the Suffolk Regiment.
“Everything went off all right till we got nearly to the top of the hill, not
hearing a shot or noise of any kind. The opinion was that the Boers had evacuated
their position during the night. Then we had the command to advance and as the
men’s heads came above the top of the hill they were shot down. The word “retire”
was shouted out and of about 400 who went up there half the number returned.

Tuesday 8th February

1975

Royston’s oldest inn, the Old Bull is now able to take more residents thanks to a
six-bedroomed extension. Bargain weekends are one of the innovations brought in by
the new proprietors. For £13.50 they offer accommodation for two nights and a
dinner dance on the Saturday evening.

1950

When fire broke out in A-block of Jesus college, Cambridge the occupant found his
room and corridor full of smoke. He jumped out of a window on to the flat roof of
the porter’s lodge below. The undergraduate’s sudden landing roused the night
porter who gave the alarm. Tongues of flame were soon licking through the roof,
part of which fell in before the brigade got the fire under control. A-block is one
of the oldest parts of the college, which was founded in 1496

1925
Councillor Mapey’s motion in favour of members of the County Council being allowed
to smoke in the committee room did not find much favour. A councillor stated that
members of the Ouse Drainage Board smoked in the Council Chamber, and added, amid
laughter, that this was about all they did do.

1900

South Essex Waterworks Company proposal to construct a large reservoir near

Melbourn would drain the watershed from which Newmarket obtained its supply. In
some nearby villages water was very scarce in summer & in one or two had to be
carted about by water carts from a distance. But Mr Segrott said it would be an
advantage to have the water a few feet lower in the town. Several could tell of
having their cellars flooded. When the Hotel Victoria was built it took an engine
weeks working day and night to keep the water down.

Wednesday 9th February

1975

The Government has decided after two years deliberation that the Burleigh Street –
Fitzroy street area of Cambridge is suitable for redevelopment. This now lays the
responsibility for action squarely on the city council who are likely to decide
within two months whether to drop the much-criticised official development plan and
go ahead with something less contentious. The plan has been unanimously rejected by
the area’s residents and shopkeepers.

1950

During summer 1949 a Burwell farmer bought three huts at Wratting Common airfield.
He intended using the rubble from one of the huts, two were of the “Nissen” type
and the other reinforced concrete, to make a road at his farm. On Tuesday he went
to demolish it. While inside with another man his son hit the wall with a twelve-
pound hammer and suddenly part of the roof collapsed, causing injuries from which
one man died.

1925
What was aptly described as “a wonderful ideal” is expressed in a memorandum drawn
up by Mr H. Morris, the County Education Secretary, entitled “The Village College”.
The aim would be to establish in about 10 centres a system of village colleges
which would provide for the co-ordination and development of all forms of education
– primary, secondary, further and adult, including agricultural – together with
social and recreational facilities. They would provide a nursery schoolroom which
would serve for use as an infant welfare centre.

1900
For the first time the British Amateur Skating Championship has been decided at
Littleport. At no venue in Great Britain are the arrangements so to up-to-date. All
Cambridge sportsmen will welcome Albert Tebbit’s success. He has had to wait five
years to have his third race for the championship which has always been held by a
man from Welney – the little hamlet known as the metropolis of speed skating.

Thursday 10th February

1975

Cambridge’s city centre traffic experiment swung into action today. Thousands of
motorists faced the through-traffic ban for the first time. The road closures and a
system of one-way routes will operate for six months unless “utter chaos” develops.
The scheme could then be swiftly abandoned. It closes two sections of road in the
centre of town to private cars. One extends along King’s Parade from King’s College
gate to Gt St Mary’s while the other runs from Woolworth’s along St Andrew’s street
to its junction with Emmanuel St

1950

Major Gordon Fowler had a career which most people only dream about. He went to New
Zealand at the age of 16 and had been at one time or another a wagon driver,
lumberman, cowboy and policeman. In 1948 he was awarded an honorary MA degree by
Cambridge University for his archaeological research work in East Anglia. During
his 25 years at Ely Sugar Beet factory he saw the local development of a crop
producing 50,000 tons in the first campaign to the present level of approx 250,000
tons.

1925

Cambridge University Senate agreed that no member of the University shall be

allowed to keep or use a motor car unless he obtained a licence through his
college. If any tradesman or keeper of motor garage shall let out any motor car or
motor cycle for hire to any person in statu pupillari he shall be liable to be
discommuned. Anyone who houses upon his premises a motor vehicle on behalf of a
member of the University must furnish a written description to the Junior Proctor.

1900

A successful amateur skating competition open to all within a radius of fives miles
was held on the championship skating course at Swavesey. The ice was not looking
its best, being in some places rough and bumpy. The Prize Challenge Cup (to be won
twice) was given by Mr Ben Thorp of Swavesey and Messrs Norman Bros generously gave
the prizes.

Friday 11th February

1975

Voluntary workers in Cambridge are battling to keep an old peoples’ day club and
meals on wheels service going while they wait for new premises. The WRVS Hill Top
Club for the elderly is run in a dilapidated “pre-fab” on Castle Hill. The workers
took the building over in 1958 from American servicemen who had used it as a social
club. It has been feared the building would not last until new premises at Primrose
Croft were built.

1950

Dr W.H.D. Rouse, headmaster of the Perse school, Cambridge, from 1902 to 1928 and
one of the greatest teachers of his time died yesterday. His most famous work for
education was his method of teaching Latin and Greek. Pupils acquired them by being
taught in the language from their first lesson and by speaking in the language in
class. He gathered round him a brilliant staff who shared his qualities of
originality of mind and enthusiasm. Teachers from all over the world come to the
Perse to see how those pioneer methods now followed in many schools were carried
into effect.

1925

The Bill to electrify Cambs., Beds & Hunts comes before Parliament this session. A
great generating station will be erected at Lt Barford. At first they propose to
develop the central area including St Neots, St Ives and Ely & to give a supply in
bulk to Cambridge and Newmarket. To help the electrical development of the railways
it is proposed to link up with the transmission lines of the North Metropolitan
Electric Power Supply Company and to afford a supply to the main railway lines
within the area

1900

What is hoped to be the final stage of the Coveney churchyard scandal was reached
at the Ely County Court. It was alleged that the rector had wrongfully removed a
certain tombstone in the churchyard, damaging it and disposed it to his own use. He
would now give up the piece of the monument in his possession and the plaintiff
proceed to its erection at his own cost. No one would refer to this matter in time
to come and parties will abstain from writing to the public press again.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 14 February

1975
Superstitious fears were cast aside by members of South Cambs District Council
yesterday when they agreed unanimously to include “unlucky” 13 in their street
numbering scheme. Undaunted by the day’s date, February 13th, and reported
complaints from the public about the use of 13 in numbering schemes, councillors
came firmly down on the side common sense. Councillor Mrs Millie Pepper said that
if she was given number 13 she would feel lucky to get a house at all.

1950

Undergraduates are believed to have been responsible for locking the main gates of
Girton college last night. The spirit of St Valentine’s day appears to have
prompted their actions because scrawled across the driveway there were written in
red paint, the words “Our Valentine”.

1925

Celebrating the Lent Races gave gownsmen the traditional excuse to break the bonds
of conventional conduct and create some hectic scenes on Saturday night. From the
viewpoint of roughness the ‘rag’ proved to be one of the worst during recent years,
and the endeavours of the police to impose limitations on some of the more
disorderly acts were not received with the good-natured co-operation which usually
characterises such outbreaks. Besides having their helmet knocked off, several
constables received nasty kicks about the legs and one was taken to Addenbrooke’s
Hospital with injuries to the head.

1900

The weather through the country continues to be very severe and in many districts
traffic is almost at a standstill. In Huntingdonshire the drifts in many places
were 6ft deep. The mail cart from Cambridge to St Neots got embedded in the snow
and could not be moved. The contents had to be removed and carried some distance to
another vehicle.

Tuesday 15th February

1975

A house-to-house survey carried out in six Cambridgeshire villages showed that

residents were overwhelmingly in favour of a superstore for Gt Shelford, a public
inquiry heard. The results delivered by the managing director of Scotsdale Garden
Centre, the proposed site for the superstore, came as something of a shock on the
last day of the inquiry. Up until then indications were that most people were
strongly against a proposal of Asda to built a 50,000 square feet store and car
park

1950

Although surveys have been made and plans drawn up the South Cambs RDC cannot now
go ahead with its sewerage scheme for Linton. The Ministry of Health has informed
the council that owing to the need for a reduction in capital expenditure it had
been decided to defer the scheme. “It is most depressing” said the chairman of the
council. Approval had originally been given but the war had prevented the scheme
from being carried out.

1925

The Community Council heard that village halls were of many different types. Some
had been designed as assembly rooms only, as at Whittlesford; some were only
suitable for social club purposes, as at Borough Green; some attempted to serve
both these purposes by dividing the main space with temporary partitions, such as
Bourn; others contained both an assembly hall and club room sunder the same roof,
as at Trumpington. The provision of a village hall did not mean that the social
life of the village was satisfactory.

1900

Stonea Grange situate by the side of the Great Eastern Railway near Stonea station
was destroyed by fire. The March fire brigade left in a snowstorm and experienced
some difficulty in getting to the scene on account of the many drifts which had
been made during the night. The house was an old-fashioned one and contained some
splendid oak-panelled rooms, all of which were destroyed

Wednesday 16th February

1975

For many months Andy’s record stall has been one of the biggest market square
attractions in the country. And with the opening of his new shop in Mill Road,
Cambridge, Andy Gray has achieved another success. Opened by “Mr Top Twenty”, Alan
Freeman, the shop already houses more than 500 LPs covering the whole spectrum of
folk, country and western, rock, motown and soul. There is also a cassette corner
in the new shop. They will continue to offer discounts of between 50p and 90p off
most LPs and albums.

1950

The body of a man was found lying in the disused machine gun post on the Old North
Road near Bassingbourn RAF station. P.S. J. Adams said he found the body together
with the usual wayfarer’s kit, which contained a few slices of bread and an
identity card. There were no marks of violence but deceased was scantily clothed.
There was evidence of malnutrition. Death was due to pneumonia

1925

“There is a town which men call Cottenham”, said a speaker at Cambridge Union
Society, “and those whose brains are wearied with much study repair to that
paradise for relaxation”. A man took to beagling for the avoidance of burgling, to
steeple-chasing for the avoidance of stealing and to fox-hunting for the avoidance
of foppishness. And yet there were those who preferred the blandishments of study
to the sports of the open air. For the sake of scholarship it was his hope that
fox-hunting, steeplechasing, beagling, fishing and other sports of the field would
ever flourish in England

1900

The Isle of Ely highways committee called attention to the dilapidated condition of
the private road in the parish of Mepal known as “Ireton’s Way”. On one occasion
their steam roller got stuck in the road and was with difficulty extricated. There
was no other way to get to this part of the Isle. A very heavy toll was charged
upon it but there would be no complaint if it were properly repaired. They did not
know the peculiar circumstances of the owner of the road. The best plan would be to
obtain control of it, otherwise it might only be half repaired.

Thursday 17th February

1975

Stradishall’s Highpoint prison is rapidly taking shape on 160 acres of the former
RAF base. It will be a year before any prisoners appear. There will be four
establishments: the main Highpoint prison for 450 male prisoners situated in the
area of the former hangars; a detention centre, Northridge, for 200 young men at
the former sergeants’ mess; a prison physical education officers’ school and a
security dog training scheme near the former officers’ quarters.

1950

Cambridge University Air Squadron’s silver jubilee dinner at the University Arms
also celebrated the arrival at Marshall’s airport of an appropriate “gift” from the
Air Ministry – the first batch of the eagerly-awaited new Chipmunk training
aircraft which are replacing the squadron’s Tiger Moth. In its 25-years the
squadron had three types of trainers – the Avro 504, then in 1934 the Tutor and in
1940 the Tiger Moth.

1925

For the University Pitt Club ball the Guildhall has always been very cleverly
decorated. The Large Room served as ballroom, the orchestra seats hidden behind
tapestry hangings. There were close on 400 dancers. As a buffet the Small Room has
seldom looked better. Supper was served in the Corn Exchange, access to which was
gained by means of a covered way connecting it with the Guildhall. The fare
provided was most appetising. Our representative gazed with pardonable envy upon a
well-dressed boar’s head, a swan with a waxen neck and other fine fare.

1900

The scene at the door of the Senate House on the morning on which the lists in the
Mathematical Tripos are published, and the ceremony of the wooden spoon, belong to
the life of Cambridge as much as the May Races. But this is not all. Within a few
minutes of the announcement on the steps of the Senate House, the name of the
winner of the Cambridge Mathematical trophy is telegraphed to the ends of the
earth. It is because Cambridge offers the Senior Wranglership that men have come
from every part of the earth to pursue their studies in Cambridge. It would have
made a great change if the recommendations of the Mathematical Board of Studies
towards its the abolition had been sanctioned by the Senate.

Friday 18th February

1975

Addenbrooke’s Hospital is so short of staff housing that new recruits may be put up
in hotels. Already it is having to turn away staff it has recruited because of the
accommodation shortage. In spite of desperate staff shortage resulting in 168 beds
remaining permanently unused, new staff cannot be taken on because no housing can
be found for them either within the hospital or in the city.

1950

New premises in Ainsworth street which will house the social club of Messrs
Kerridge (Cambridge) Ltd were opened by the deputy mayor in the presence of a
company numbering nearly 150. Difficulty had been experienced in obtaining
accommodation but the present clubroom was the late Mr Charles Kerridge’s
recreation room at his residence, Lordship Close, Stapleford. They were a gift to
the social club from the directors of the company. In these days a club of the kind
he was opening was a great asset to a firm of the size and reputation of Messrs
Kerridge, he said.

1925

Linton RDC heard that the village most in need of cottages as Balsham – which was
really in a sad plight. Under the Addison Act the council had chosen a building
site there, but the purchase was never completed, partly owing to the cost. They
had now been able to get the promise of two really good sites to be given to the
council and they would be able to build six cottages at a rent of 4s. (20p) a week

1900

Water flooded the Waits, Wellington Street and Priory Road, St Ives, to the depth
of several feet and inhabitants have had to remove their household effects and live
in the upper rooms. Residents in Woolpack Lane could only reach their dwellings by
means of planks laid on packing boxes. The Union Workhouse at Hemingford Grey is
flooded to a depth of several inches. Thirty-eight houses in Victoria Terrace are
flooded and provisions have to be delivered by boat. The flood has passed by nearly
an inch the height of the disastrous flood of 1877.
LOOKING BACK by Mike Petty

Monday 21 February

1975

Four men ran a pirate commercial radio station from remote spots in the
Cambridgeshire countryside, magistrates were told. They were caught in a field near
Histon as they had just closed down a two-hour broadcasting session of Anglia Free
Commercial Radio. They had previously put out two-hour broadcasts on Sundays from
various spots in Cambridgeshire, and the programmes were heard in places as
widespread as Exning, Waterbeach and Fenstanton. The magistrates ordered the
transmitter to be forfeited. The men were fined between £50 and £70 each

1950

Well known both on the screen and radio “Old Mother Riley and her daughter Kitty”
this week gave Cambridge theatregoers their chance of enjoying their particular
brand of comedy in the flesh. There is something for all ages – first the pantomime
horse, then begob and begorrah comes the ould [SIC] lady herself, Old Mother Riley
with a laugh-a-line to set you twisting in your seats. We see her deal in her own
inimitable way with the breakfast routine with daughter Kitty, sweetheart Danny and
troublesome Rodger [SIC] the lodger. Arthur Lucan is “her” usual exuberant self and
Old Mother Riley and Kitty McShane delightful as the darlin [SIC] daughter.

1925

Mr Frank Vince from Ely was about to start his car in his garage when the engine
back-fired and the petrol tank caught alight. Mr Vince’s first thought was of the
petrol tin on the footboard in close proximity to the flames. In removing this he
stumbled, and some of the petrol splashed over him, and he was immediately
enveloped in flames. His wife snatched sum rugs from the floor, covered him in them
and extinguished the flames but not before his left arm and hand had been badly
burned.

1900

A fire occurred in the shop used as a general stores for the grocery and drapery
business of Mr R.A. Waddelow of Waterbeach. An assistant, Mr Albert Denson slept
upon the premises and was awakened by a choking sensation. Fortunately there was a
pump and a supply of pails handy and two young men, one with no shoes on and the
other in his socks, commenced pouring water through the window on to the burning
material underneath. For a quarter of an hour they laboured with a will before
assistance was forthcoming. There is no organised fire brigade in the village, but
there is a fire engine which was out of order at the time of the outbreak.

Tuesday 22nd February

1975

Milton has no chance of getting a branch library at the moment. Finance for such
projects as new branch library buildings simply isn’t available the Deputy County
Librarian explained. Outline planning permission for the land at one end of a
garden near Coles Road lapsed this month. Building on sites without outline
planning permission is strictly embargoed by the Anglian Water Authority so Milton
must put up with its part time, limited stock library which opens in the British
Legion hall on two afternoons and two evenings.

1950

Because he disapproved of his daughter’s association with a German prisoner-of-war

a Gt Eversden man took out his 12-bore shotgun to try and scare the suitor off. His
intervention was not a success. The police took away his gun and gave it to his son
for safe custody until “the trouble blew over”. The German married his daughter and
is now accepted as a son-in-law. This story was told in the court when father sued
son for the return of the gun.

1925

The Cambridge Tipperary Club celebrated its 10th birthday when the President gave
an address on its history and work during the war period. She described the visit
of Her Majesty the Queen when some 300 members who had lost husbands or other
relatives in the war were present. The Queen shook hands with many of the bereaved,
and spoke words of sympathy and comfort. Towards the end of the war it was not
found necessary to open the club as frequently. The spirit of the club was one of
mutual help and as long as that remained the club would be blessed.

1900

“It is very hard lines”, writes an anonymous correspondent, “for poor washerwomen
to go to their work at 9am and then for their employers not to let them leave off
until between 9 and 10 pm. It ought to be known that they don’t allow the poor
women time to swallow their meals before they want them to start again”. The writer
hopes her letter by induce “the laundresses to give the poor washerwomen a chance”.
If it is at all common for women to be kept at work for more than twelve hours
without sufficient intervals for meals, a state of matters exists which urgently
calls for redress.

Wednesday 23rd February

1975

Cambridge University should be nationalised, the Kite area turned over to council
housing and traffic banned inside the city boundaries, the Cambridge Communist
Party says in a policy statement. Amongst other measures they would like to see are
turning the church of St Andrew the Great into a civic restaurant, requisition of
vacant accommodation if vacant for six months, industrial expansion of Cambridge
with more council houses, and the banning of office expansion in favour of housing
and jobs.

1950

Premier Travel Ltd successfully contested an application by A.E. Nicholls of Clare

to run a new service from Steeple Bumpstead to Stradishall. Mr Nicholls said the
firm had been providing vehicles for dances at the RAF station Stradishall and
since they had become fortnightly affairs they had been advised to acquire a
licence. Evidence of hiring buses to transport dancing partners to the airdrome was
given by Flight Lieut David Hamilton Gardner. Premier Travel said their firm was
operating excursions for the dances and the application was refused on the grounds
that excursions already existed.

1925
Awe-inspiring monsters of a prehistoric age came to life before the eyes of a
Cambridge audience. This seeming miracle was accomplished by a remarkable “fake”
film made as the result of intelligent imagination based on authoritative facts and
followed a lecture entitled “Digging for Dinosaurs”. The extraordinary film
depicted these gigantic mammals roaming through the interior of Africa as they did
thousands of years ago. The film, which is certainly the only one of its kind,
materially helped the audience to visualise what these dinosaurs were actually
like.

1900

Not within our experience has there been so much sickness as during these last few
months. It would take a very skilful actuary to make a full account of what
influenza has cost the country. At the Hearts of Oak dinner in Cambridge the
secretary reported that sickness has been altogether unprecedented, and they have
paid out £7,700 in sickness allowances. Happily though influenza frequently
develops into something very serious, in itself it is not deadly.

Thursday 24th February

1975

Housewives were today urged top take advantage of low potato prices before they
soar in the spring. But while shops are now able to buy cheaply at a cost of
between 1p and 1½ p a pound, they are selling them in Cambridge at between 3p & 5p.
A glut of potatoes from the fens has pushed prices down to an unprecedently low
level of between £16 and £23 a ton off the farm. A potato merchant said “One of the
things I can never understand is why the shop keepers don’t pass on the benefits of
the lower wholesale and farm prices to the consumers, but they never do”

1950

In Cambridge there is a substantial amount of local talent and under the guidance
of Mr D.N. Whitworth the Rex Cinema has held a talent contest. There were four
finalists. Deserving winners of the first prize were Cecil Garrett and Nancy
Thirkettle who gave an extremely good comedy sketch. Second was Aileen Hessy of
Ditton Fields and third Edna Tebbitt giving a solo performance on the piano. Fourth
was Tony Chapman who gave some recognisable impressions of Al Jolson but needs
quite a bit more experience before he can become a first prize winner.

1925

Despite a shower of rain a number of tennis enthusiasts were present on Jesus Green
when the Mayor opened Cambridge’s first public hard tennis courts. They are situate
opposite Strange’s Boatyard and a part of the council’s plans to develop Jesus
green into a recreation ground, with facilities for a variety of games. Directly
adjoining are the grass courts, nearby is the bowling green whilst further afield
cricket pitches are being laid. All these will be in use by May.

1900

A rare occurrence took place at Wilburton a few days ago. A cow belonging to Mr
George Sharp, a small farmer, gave birth to five calves. The new arrivals, which
are somewhat below the normal size, are all alive and well. The same cow had twins
18 months ago.

Friday 25th February

1975

Cambridge’s ratepayers face an increase of about 20% on their rates bills from
August. Last night the Labour-controlled City Board agreed to recommend a total
rate of 71.6 p in the pound. The city council’s own share of the rate will be 15.5p
– a 51.2% increase. The decision sparked off heated protests from the opposition
Conservative members. Their leader, Counc. John Powley, claimed the council was
sheltering behind the county which was levying a lower rate than forecast because
of large government grants.

1950

Four firemen suffered superficial injuries when the Linton fire tender in which
they were riding overturned into a ditch when on the way to deal with a chimney
fire at College Farm, Horseheath.The accident followed a violent skid on the icy
roads. The injured were Firemen Leonard Morley, J. Morley, Noakes and Gurr. The
officer in charge went on to the fire by motorcycle. The fire engine was not badly
damaged, but a pump trailer which had been pulled at the rear will require
extensive repairs

1925

In the course of his address on “How to carry on a village library centre” Mr

Milner said that at Cottenham he tried to hire a warm room and did not hurry
people. Some librarians mixed the books with the hope that a borrower would be led
to read a non-fiction book. But that was a trick which would probably make a person
stop away from the library. The librarian should not spend his time issuing books.
He had far more important work than that – to talk to borrowers and interest them
in books. Mr Chapman, Whittlesford, spoke of choosing books for borrowers and said
he had been greatly praised for giving people good books, when he knew nothing
about the books (laughter)

1900

The building which stands off St Andrew’s street, Cambridge, and which has recently
been erected through the munificence of Mrs Lewis & Mrs Gibson, members of the
congregation of St Columba’s Presbyterian Church was formally opened. The need for
such a hall had long been felt and is undoubtedly one of the best buildings of the
kind. It has cost no less than £2,000 & is lighted with electric light.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 28TH February

1975

Cambridgeshire County Council is to buy a 147 acre slice of Duxford airfield,

including the mile-long runway, for an undisclosed sum. This will allow the
Imperial War Museum to go ahead with its plans to house permanently its large
collection of historic aircraft in the hangar and to develop the whole site into
one of the largest aviation museum complexes in the country. The deal brings to an
end almost ten years doubt and dispute over the future of one of the most historic
airfields in aviation history

1950

Messrs W.Eaden Lilley, Market St, Cambridge this year celebrates their 200th
anniversary. Senior member at present, whose period of service numbers just on 60
years, is Mr George Heath, who has worked his way up and is now responsible for the
grocery, household goods, painting and hardware department, both wholesale and
retail. His long service and keen interest in the firm have earned him a
directorship. “I should they are the kindest people you could possibly work for.
There is a long family tradition behind them”, he said.

1950

We regret to announce the death of Mr Cyrus Johnson, the well-known portrait

painter. He was the youngest son of the late Mr Elijah Johnson who founded the
Cambridge bookselling firm in Trinity Street. Born at Cambridge he was educated at
the Perse school and afterwards studied in Paris. He exhibited at the Royal Academy
as a portrait painter in 1877 in which branch of art he achieved much distinction.
He resided in Cambridge from 1916 until last year.

1900

The greatest possible excitement followed the receipt of the news of the relief of
Ladysmith. The telegrams conveying the announcement was received at the chief Post
office shortly after 10 o’clock and the intelligence spread with marvellous
rapidity to all parts of the town. When a private wire was posted in the Market
Place the excitement was intense. From all approaches people could be seen rushing
to get a view of the telegram and the wildest enthusiasm prevailed. The crowd
raised hearty cheers and there was much waving of hats and handkerchiefs.

Tuesday 29th February

1975

Down in Gt Shelford the traditional pub games of darts and dominoes have a rival.
It’s chess. The stately game has found its way into the bars of the Square and
Compasses public house where no fewer than 22 players entered the pub’s chess
tournament. Landlord Mr Ron Hughes has bought two special chequered-topped tables
for the saloon bar. “Its obvious that this is something that’s going to grow”, he
said. “It’s about as popular as darts”

1950
Complaints have been received by the Ministry of Health from tenants of Nissen huts
on the RAF station, Bourn, saying that the hutments are unfit for occupation
because of water constantly dripping from the walls owing to condensation and that
furniture is being spoiled and children are ill. It is thought that this is due to
the recent partitioning causing insufficient ventilation.

1925

Shrove Tuesday was something of a gala day for the people of Comberton with the
opening of the billiard room. This new building is capacious, comfortable, bright
and airy. Although it directly adjoins the main body of the Village Institute it is
sufficiently secluded to ensure quietness. The opening as performed by Lady
Blenkinsop who said Comberton was the most progress village in the county. Having
declared the room open she took a cue and made the first stroke with it.

1900

There was great rejoicings in Cambridge on the relief of Ladysmith and despite the
edict sent forth by the University authorities the conduct of the undergraduate
element was again such as to necessitate the intervention of the police. The
Varsitymen managed to draw police attention off the market place to scenes
elsewhere and, during their temporary absence, succeeded in lighting a bonfire.
There was great excitement as one by one the wooden frameworks of the stalls was
committed to the flames. The band-stand on Christ’s Pieces was attacked and the
seats removed to the Market and quickly consumed. Similar damage was occasioned in
all parts of the town.

Wednesday 1st March

1975

The Mayor of Cambridge, Ald Jack Warren, and the Vice Chancellor of Cambridge
University, Prof Jack Linnett, held a reception at the Guildhall for ten Nobel
Prize winners resident at the University. As the learned and the erudite stood in
earnest groups they assured each other that the occasion was unique. “You won’t see
the like again” they muttered as the champagne went round and round.

1950
A swifter and more efficient ambulance service is in action this week – thanks to
radio control. This innovation, which has already proved its worth with the police
and fire brigade, has had a successful trial with the county ambulance service.
Radio control was fitted to their four ambulances and two utilicons by Pye
Telecommunications and all vehicles are in constant call from the control room,
newly equipped with receiver, transmitter and microphone. A number of Cambridge
commercial firms have now followed the lead of Camtax in installing radio
telephones and Cambridge must be among the world’s most advanced towns in the field
of radio control.

1925

“We will shoot you – if you come up here”. This was alleged to be the threat of two
men who barricaded themselves in one of the bedrooms at the Marquis of Granby
Hotel, Littleport at 2am and were eventually arrested by the police. The prisoners
were charged with stealing a cash box containing about £100 in notes, gold &
silver.

1900

The University has the power to stop these things. But what did the University do
to prevent the destruction of property – practically nothing. A year ago an edict
forbidding bonfires was issued, that edict was torn to shreds. The University
cannot afford to have it said that the people of Cambridge had property stolen or
destroyed in order to furnish forth an undergraduate carnival. The firmness of the
Mayor and his brother magistrates in dealing with the men who came up at the
police-court has been much commended. The Barnwell rough belongs to the past. The
unfortunate thing is that his mantle had fallen upon the rowdy undergraduate of the
present.
Thursday 2nd March

1975

The bizarre sight of city-suited lawyers in mud-covered town shoes, sorting out
llamas, camels & elephants in a disused coal yard at Cottenham brought to an end
the sage of Circus Hoffman. Earlier in the day the villagers had been treated to
the unique sight of a high court tipstaff, complete with court orders and warrants,
being chased by a baby elephant. It was all part of the tragi-comedy which opened
last November when one of the four brothers running Circus Hoffman decided on a
unilateral declaration of independence and peeled off what he considered was his
chunk of the circus and headed for Cambridge from London. The final curtain was
lowered amidst tears and curses when the peeled-off chunk rejoined the whole.

1950

Work began a few days ago in digging out a bog oak, believed to be the biggest yet
found in the Ely area. It was discovered about five years ago on Pymoor common when
Mr A. Thompson, of Oxlode, took over the land for agricultural purposes. It is
about 30 yards long, 12 feet in circumference and embedded four foot in the ground.

1925

The county coroner conducted an inquest on a married woman of Whittlesford, whose

body was found in a well near her house. A boot repairer gave evidence that about 5
am his wife had gone down to light the fire. At 6.15 the fire was not lit so he
started a search. He found the gate leading to the well open. He drew a pail of
water and saw that it was thick and stirred up. His son went down and found her at
the bottom. The well was about 42 feet deep. An extra rope was got and she was
pulled up. She appeared quite dead and was cold.

1900

Sir – In your editorial you seem to imply that all the damage done during the
Ladysmith rag was caused by undergraduates. As a matter of fact all the windows
that were broken were broken by townsmen. You seem to have quite forgotten that the
prosperity, bay the very existence of the town depends upon University men, and a
very good picking the town gets out of the Varsity men. The fines imposed by the
magistrates were simply outrageous, passing all bounds of common sense and justice.
- Spectator

Friday 3rd March

1975

The first gas-powered police car takes to the road today. With gas at about 30p a
gallon and the cost of conversion from petrol to gas around £140 the car should be
saving taxpayers money in September. But police want to find out any problems that
may crop up before committing themselves to spending money on more conversions.
Other vehicles owned by the county council also fill up from the big storage tank
in the Corporation yard, Mill Road, Cambridge

1950

Since fire service tenders have been maintaining a supply of water to five
Cambridgeshire villages after a break-down at one of Newmarket RDC’s pumping
stations. It was found that only 4,500 gallons were available at the station which
has a normal output of 30,000 gallons per day. The fire service instituted a
shuttle service between the pumping station and a hydrant in Newmarket. The
villages affected are Ashley, Cheveley, Wood Ditton, Kirtling and Saxon Street. The
council has just received approval for at £82,000 water scheme which they have been
pressing for some time

1925

A good many questions were asked at Cambridge bankruptcy court concerning certain
boot-repairing machinery. Debtor said he had worked for Messrs Freeman, Hardy &
Willis and later commenced business on his own account as a boot repairer in Mill
Road. There was an electric motor and combination finishing machine, which cost
£44. There was also a patching-machine. He had been pressed by creditors so he sold
these machined to get money to satisfy them. The machines had not been removed from
his premises and he did not tell his creditors he had sold them. It was untrue to
say that gambling was one of the reasons for his appearance in that court.

1900

The ire of the undergraduate once roused, not even the powerful hand of Alma Mater
suffices to entirely quell the wrath that has been kindled. An attacking force of
undergraduates gathered many recruits as it made its way along Hills Road and it
was at once seen that the objective was the Mayor’s residence in Brooklands Avenue.
They were dismayed to find the thoroughfare barricaded by a posse of police
constables. The mob made a bold rush. The police partially yielded but not more
than half of the ‘Varsity flank passed through the cordon when the police closed
ranks. The trap that had been set proved effective for those who marched
triumphantly down the Avenue had not negotiated more than fifty yards when they
were encountered by the Proctors mustered in strong force.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 6th March

1975

Finger printing of juveniles is becoming standard practice in Cambridgeshire

whenever anyone between the ages of 14 and 16 comes before a court, the County’s
chief constable said. In recent weeks fingerprints of 14 year old have been taken
for stealing bikes in one case and stealing flowers in another. “There has been a
large clear-up of offences through this. We often find that juveniles arrested for
minor offences have been involved in burglaries and other serious offences after
their fingerprints have been recorded”, he said

1950

Alan (“I escape from anything anytime”) Alan, a 23-years old escapologist, who some
people consider is a reincarnation of Houdini, hung upside down 40 feet above
Parker’s Piece yesterday afternoon,,
to 500 people. Alan, who is known as
man you cannot hang” is appearing at
recruited to truss him up but within
ground.
well and truly tied up, and gave a free show
“the world’s greatest escapologist” and “the
the New Theatre. Two passing sailors were
five minutes he was free and lowered to the

1925

Cambridge Watch Committee report that it is not practical for the fire engine to be
got out of the Fire Station until the escape has first been removed, and valuable
time is of necessity lost in responding to calls. It is also necessary to provide
accommodation for a number of firemen to live on the premises. It will involve the
demolition of the Chief Constable’s house and the conversion of the old mortuary,
which could be utilised to greater advantage than at the present time

1900

Sir – At present gates cross the railway line on Milton Road, Cambridge, and a sub-
way is provided for vehicular traffic. After heavy rains it is flooded some feet
deep and a few days ago the driver of a carriage containing an invalid lady found
over five feet of water there, and no room to turn round. The invalid and her
attendant had to sit up to their knees in water, and in their saturated clothes had
to proceed to the Hospital. - Viator

Tuesday 7th March

1975

Members of the newly-formed Cambridge rock ‘n’ roll club turned up to their first
party last night at the Midland tavern, Devonshire Road, Cambridge, only to be told
there could be no dancing. The club’s plans came unstuck when Cambridge magistrates
ruled that there had to be no dancing at the pub because it only had a licence for
music – not for dancing or singing.

1950

Alan (I escape from anything anytime”) Alan got all tied up in his work at the New
Theatre last night. Two men, believed to be scaffolders, who were invited to tie up
Alan for the rope trick in his act, made such a good job of it that he could not
escape. Alan twisted and turned for 5 ½ minutes to untie the rope as he hung upside
down over the stage, but with no avail. Then the producer of the show came on stage
and told the customers that if Alan hung there any longer it would endanger his
life. He called for a hand for the two men as this was the first time that Alan had
been unable to escape in the stipulated time.

1925

The bright idea was to unveil a ‘statue’ of Eros on Cambridge Market Hill, but they
did not appear till quite three-quarters of an hour late. The crowd got tired of
waiting and certain of their number pelted some adventurous spirits perched on the
Market cross with oranges, and this little incident led to a general exchange of
soft and ‘squashy’ fruit. Oranges gave place to tomatoes, which were followed by
eggs and bags of flour. Besides being unpleasant, practice of this sort is
dangerous.

1900
We have received the following from Private H. Plumb, a Cambridge reservist now in
South Africa. ‘We attacked Red Hill and got to the very top of it where there was
very hot fire from rifles of the Boers. After the colonel gave the order for the
men to retire he was then shot through the head. The adjutant and two lieutenants
were also killed as well as about 28 rank and file, while 27 were wounded and about
107 missing. When they got back to the camp the sergeant major got on to some of
the wounded because they came back without their officers!’

Wednesday 8th March

1975

Cambridgeshire planning committee yesterday drove another nail in the coffin of the
Parry Lewis development plan for Cambridge when they joined the growing list of
local council bodies which have pronounced the last rites over the plan which cost
£20,000 and took nearly three years to produce. The plan suggests the city should
scrap its super-shops plans for the Burleigh-Fitzroy area and develop a new large
commercial centre in the Trumpington region.

1950

A strong attack on Ely council’s housing policy is made in the Ely Rural Deanery
Magazine’s Prickwillow notes. It claims the housing difficulties will make it
necessary for Mr W. Gathercole to give up the position of church caretaker after 20
years because the housing committee are unwilling to give them a house near the
church. “It will be an injustice and scandal. The most insuperable difficulty of
obtaining an organ blower will also arise, as this family supplies the organ
blower. Church caretakers and organ blowers are almost unobtainable these days” the
article says

1925

William Asplin applied for the renewal of the licence of the Sun, Waterbeach, owned
by the Star Brewery. The house was used by travellers for lodging accommodation,
also by grooms travelling with stud horses. There were three clubs which met on the
premises, the Foresters, Shepherds, and a share-out club. They catered for two
‘horkey’ dinners a year. The tenant also carried on the business of carrier and
grew fruit and vegetables for sale. It was 70 paces from the White Horse, which was
a fully-licensed house, did a better trade, and had better accommodation.

1900

The large ornamental advertising lamp which hung outside the Star and Garter, Petty
Cury, Cambridge, all but cost Mr Ernest Simpkin, a tailor of Russell Street, his
life this afternoon. He was walking along the Cury when a bus ran very close to the
kerb. The top caught the lamp with such force as to bring it with a crash to the
ground and one of the brass ornaments struck him on the side of the head. He was
conveyed in a hansom to Mr Lucas, surgeon of St Andrew’s street for medical
treatment.

Thursday 9th March

1975

The long dispute between Cambridgeshire planning committee and a number of Cherry
Hinton residents about Cambridge city council’s plan to build 1500 homes in the
village has been brought to an abrupt end. The committee chairman made it clear
that the decision to allow the development will stand. No public enquiry could now
be held. More time had been spent on the Cherry Hinton issue than on any other
matter he could remember.

1950

Cambridge and Newmarket pressmen attended the Press Ball – that gay, friendly,
party mood function of bonhomie and novelty which has become a high-spot feature of
the Cambridge dancing season. Music for dancing was provided by Stan Baker’s
University Arms Combination and Chic Applin’s orchestra. Between them they provided
a non-stop programme of old & new dances. The music had that easy lilt that helped
even the heavy footed to be light on their toes.

1925

Many columns have been devoted to the first volume of biography of King Edward VII
whose last year of training was spent in Cambridge where he hunted and played
tennis. One phase of undergraduate recreation which he especially favoured was the
A.D.C. At the club’s premises in Jesus Lane the Prince was an appreciative
spectator of the farces and extravaganzas to which their programmes were confined
and his favour secured the club a fuller academic recognition than it had enjoyed
before. Later he accepted the office of Honorary President and revisited from time
to time, presiding in 1880 at the Club’s 25th birthday

1900

The first khaki wedding in Cambridge was held at St Botolph’s church. The bride was
attired in regulation khaki tight-fitting bodice, braided Hussar, with braid to
match, khaki straw hat, trimmed with white chiffon and silk. She wore a spray of
orange blossom and carried a bouquet of lilies of the valley and snowdrops, covered
with maidenhair fern. The bridesmaids wore khaki shirts with silk tunics to match.
They also wore scarlet shoes and hats.

Friday 10th March

1975

The Kojak craze has hit Cambridge. Sales of the sort of lollipop the actor Telly
Savalas sucks in the popular television series have soared in the past three weeks
in Cambridge, according to Mr Jim Reynolds, the ‘Rock King’ of Newmarket Road. He
believes that most of the increased sales are being made to adults, not children.
As far as Kojak hairstyles are concerned, Mr Terry Taylor, of Topman, Market Hill,
Cambridge, said he had one or two customers who were thinking about adopting the
Kojak look, but no-one has actually had the style done yet, he said

1950

The Montford Café and Transport House, Horseheath, which served 87,562 meals last
year, was granted a licence to sell beer. The applicant said he purchased the
premises in May 1947 and had developed the business considerably. At weekends an
average of 45-50 motor coaches stopped each day. He did not think the public houses
in Horseheath were capable of supplying enough beer for the coach-loads of people.
They had not the room or facilities for serving meals.

1925

We regret to announce the death of Alderman W.T. See. He entered the office of the
late Mr James Catling, auctioneer valuer, house and estate agent, with whom he
served for 25 years. He gave up his work and devoted himself to music and became
well-known as a teacher or organ and piano playing. He was conductor for many years
of the Cambridge Choral Society. About three years ago he re-entered business life,
going into partnership with Mr P. Freeman, under the name of Messrs See & freeman,
estate agents, Alexandra Street, Cambridge.

1900

Cambridge is beginning to tire of the “rag”. We cannot go on celebrating the relief

of Ladysmith forever. Nor can the more right-minded citizens countenance
meaningless ebullitions against magistrates, however they may disagree with their
decisions in the police court. It was confidently expected that if the
undergraduates charged with assaulting the police were convicted there would be
nothing short of a riot in which a gigantic fire, a fabulous number of barrels of
tar and a torchlight procession were to be a conspicuous feature. It is true there
was plenty of noise and plenty of aimless rushing about the streets but it all
ended in nothing.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 13th March

1975

Patients in some Cambridge hospitals over-eat because they are bored, and hospital
wards are over-heated to the point of discomfort, health officials were told. Mrs
Janet Jones said “Patients wade through enormous quantities of food, often stodgy
and unappetising, simply because they are presented with it and have nothing else
to do”. On heating she said: “Patients quite often ask to have the windows open,
not for fresh air, but to reduce the temperature. They said they are uncomfortably
hot”

1950

Mr Harold M. Abrahams, the well-known athlete who represented Britain in the

Olympic Games and won the 100 metres in 1924 has been appointed Secretary of the
National Parks Commission. He joined the Ministry of Town and Country Planning in
1945, and from 1947 to 1948 was regional controller of the Ministry at Cambridge.

1925

Messrs Bodgers of Sidney Street, Cambridge intended to reconstruct the interior of

their premises, constructing a new shop front. Cambridge Council Surveyor suggested
that the firm put the premises back 11 feet as required for their street widening
policy. The Council must legislate for the future and in view of the serious
traffic problems must attempt to widen Sidney Street. They would pay the proprietor
half the cost of the land at the present time and the remainder when the setting
back took place. Some of the committee felt these terms were not as favourable as
those offered to Messrs Sainsbury and Woolworth.

1900

The list of those who have signed the petition in favour of a free pardon for those
undergraduates who were recently convicted by the Cambridge magistrates of felony
during the Ladysmith celebrations, fully justifies is description as the petition
of Cambridge. Over 1,200 residents in the town and members of the University have
put their names to it. Cambridge Town and University are unanimous in the hope that
the hot-headed enthusiasts of Ladysmith Day may be forgiven for what was done in
the excitement of the hour. It remains with the Home Secretary to decide whether
the prayer of the petition is to be granted.

Tuesday 14th March

1975

Cambridge’s new house squat got underway this week in Glisson Road. One occupant,
who is unemployed and drawing social security benefits, said “There are now so many
squats that we are thinking of forming a Cambridge squatters union to look after
our rights and get the thing organised. We would move in and do essential repairs
while living in the houses for no rent. . Cambridge is a young people’s town and
there are so many people here wanting accommodation but look around the town at the
number of empty houses. The council just ignores them”

1950

A party of 45 Americans will step from a special BOAC Stratocruiser at London

airport to start a 10-day check-up on Britain as a tourist centre. It will include
representatives of the leading travel agencies in the United States – the men who
“sell” Britain over the counter to potential visitors. The will see for themselves
the beauty spots which they are called-upon to answer thousands of questions from
would-be travellers. One group will visit Cambridge. It is estimated that the
record number of 170,000 visitors from America will come to Britain this year

1925

Five Harston lads were each fined 2s.6d. for playing football in the highway. PC
Carlton said there was only a small piece of grass near the White Swan and this was
unfit for football purposes. During the summer cricket was allowed in the Park, and
at one time Mr Arthur Hurrell let the boys play football in the meadow, but owing
to some wilful damage being done he withdrew these facilities.

1900

Mr W. Farren of Regent Street, Cambridge, has received a fine specimen of the dog
otter, which was killed near Upware. It weighs 24lbs and is on view in the window
of his shop.

Wednesday 15th March

1975

700 Cambridgeshire police constables are sacrificing £3 a week each to allow the
county to take on more men. They have agreed to work less overtime to finance the
strengthening of the force which is faced with the faster-growing crime rate in the
country. Last year it went up by 36%. The county council has no money to pay for
the recruits needed to keep the force up to strength. About 190 more men are
needed.

1950
Wulfnoth Way, the proposed new Cambridge street name, was which was criticised
because of pronunciation difficulties – particularly following a night out – does
not appear in the revised list of street names. The new proposed name is Wulstan
Way. Another change is Corrie Road, with Caryl Road deleted. A further name is
Nuttings Road for a street on the Coldham’s Lane housing site. Manor Farm Road has
been deleted.

1925

Machinery was whirling, wireless valves were glowing, loud speakers were in full
blast, a ciname lantern was projecting pictures, steam was hissing, and electric
sparks were crackling in the Cambridge University Englineering Laboratories when
1,000 guests attended a conversatione to mark the completion of the equipment of
the new laboratories at Scroop Terrace. It is only necessary for the front lecture
room block to be erected ere the whole of the building will be complete.

1900
The Home Secretary has granted the petition of Cambridge and has recommended the
Queen to grant a free pardon to all the defendants. He does not say the
undergraduates did not commit felony, but there were extenuating circumstances.
This is undoubtedly a slap in the face for the magistrates who share the
responsibility for these convictions. Clearly the Home Secretary does not think
much of their law, and he thinks less of their capacity for judging of evidence.
Some timid people may be apprehensive lest it encourages the demonstratively-
inclined magistrate to be more demonstrative in the future.

Thursday 16th March

1975

Cambridge city council will drop its controversial waste paper collection
experiment next week after losing almost £1,800 of ratepayers’ money on the
project. Now they intend to encourage voluntary bodies to organise their own
collections. More than eight tonnes of waste paper were collected during the first
week but the average had now dropped to below five tonnes. In addition the price
which they obtained had dropped from £18 to only £14 a tonne.

1950

The military engineering branch want to take by rail 1,000 tons of peaty soil from
the wide verges at the side of the concrete road at Lode Lane Haddenham to
Christchurch in Hampshire to carry out soil stabilisation experiments. The
intention was that the experimenters should bring their equipment down to the site,
but now the county council had been surprised to find that the branch did not want
to come into the county to work owing to the question of expense of maintaining
their staff here for about three months. It would require the soil from an area 400
yards long, 20 feet wide and 12 inches deep. It would not affect the passage of
traffic along the drove in any way

1925

The funeral took place ot Mr Alfred Whitaker, for 37 years headmaster of Exning
schools. His sudden death cast quite a gloom over the village where he had passed
such an active life and where nearly all the inhabitants had passed through Exning
school under his tuition. In all public movements for the benefit of the village he
had been active and prominent and was always anxious for the well-being of Exning
and jealous of its reputation. He will be greatly missed in all branches of village
life.

1900

A well-attended meeting of ratepayers in New Cherryhinton complained of the

disgraceful state of the streets and roads, some of which are now in bad weather
quite impassable. They now had 240 houses in the district and the congestion of so
many cesspools and make shift drains was a source of danger, not only to the health
of the resident community, but also to that of the people of Cambridge. There is
some friction between the Chesterton District Council and the Corporation of
Cambridge preventing the progress of negotiations for inclusion in the sewerage
scheme.

Friday 17th March

1975

Mr Edwin Appleyard’s partnership with a Shell oil barge has ended after 18 years.
The 60-year old barge was first introduced to the fens from Holland about 1910 and
was used for delivering tulip and daffodil bulbs growing in the fens to Ely
station. It next became a cargo boat plying between King’s Lynn and Cambridge
before being bought by Shell in the 1920s. It was then used to supply pumping
stations with gas oil. Now it has been sold to a canal and passenger boat operator
of Manchester.

1950

The Cambridge Guildhall small room smelt strongly of tobacco on Thursday.

Everywhere was tobacco. Air-cured and pressed tobacco leaves; tins full of pipe
tobacco; rows of cigars; a jar of snuff – and even a box full of uncut tobacco 30
years old. And all of it was home-made - for a meeting held by the Cambridgeshire
group of a one-time “underground” movement – the National Amateur Tobacco Growers
Association. The chairman said; “Tobacco growing is not too difficult and I can
tell those of you who object to paying 3/6 for a packet of cigarettes that you can
produce tobacco of a high quality and much cheaper”

1925

The “Tivoli”, Cambridge’s new cinema on Chesterton Road will be opened on Thursday
and many people have been speculating as to what it looks like inside. A
representative of the CDN who had a look around came away very much impressed with
the general air of comfort and the attractiveness of the interior. Over 600 people
can be seated in the body of the hall and gallery. It has comfort, excellent
lighting and excellent decoration. If you want a private box for six people you may
have one for the sum of 15s.

1900

Cambridge people do not seem to mind if their water sources are tapped for the
benefit of the people of Essex. A ratepayers’ meeting was called but there was
present the Town Clerk, his chief clerk and four reporters. Alderman Spalding
arrived shortly after and after a quarter of an hour’s waiting, business was
commenced by the meeting of three. Mr B. Diver then strolled into the room. He was
the only unattached ratepayer present. Alderman Spalding addressed the meeting, or
rather the reporters. Small as the meeting was the Press was amply represented and
he had no doubt there would represent the Cambridge public very faithfully.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 20th March

1975

East Anglia’s “Mr Average” buying his three-bedroomed semi on a mortgage now needs
an income of £3,927 a year to maintain his family’s lifestyle - £300 a year more
than he needed three months ago. A National survey shows the effect of the
inflationary spiral. It indicates that East Anglia is 4.2% cheaper than the average
of all other regions. The current asking price for a three-bedroomed semi in East
Anglia is £9,800 and a five-six bedroomed house is £29,300

1950

Will the character of Barton village - which has been likened in attractiveness to
Grantchester and Madingley –be destroyed if a new estate of 200 houses is built
half a mile outside it. This was one of the main points raised at an inquiry at
Shire Hall. The developer argued that Barton at the moment was far from being
attractively rural, because it consisted largely of council houses and the like, of
which a large proportion were built in what might be unkindly described as yellow
lavatory brick. Of course, Barton had a certain village life, but to imagine that
it could have an independent life was completely unreal. Barton should and would
eventually be used as a dormitory village for Cambridge.

1925

Public meetings, largely attended by employees at East Anglian Cement Works,

Shepreth, now on strike and their wives, were held in the village hall, Shepreth.
For various reasons the unions had lapsed and as soon as that happened the Kaiser
of Shepreth took advantage of it to use the whip hand severely in reducing the
wages of the work-people he employed. Now the union was trying to retrieve the
damage that was caused by the workers leaving their organisation.

1900

The medical officer of Godmanchester has just issued his report. Eight deaths
occurred in children under one year of age. No case of smallpox occurred, The
pollution of wells had materially decreased, the removal and disposal of sewage and
town refuse was satisfactory, and the sewers were in a fairly good condition.

Tuesday 21st March

1975

An anonymous little dog-leg road near Mitcham’s corner Cambridge is typical of many
roads interlacing the grey huddle of bed-sit suburbia on the flanks of Cambridge.
But on the night of October 18th last year its cover of anonymity was blown. It was
on that night that an unsuspecting girl became a victim and a burglar became a
rapist. Between then and December the rapist claimed five victims and sexually
assaulted a sixth. During that time 130 policemen were trying to catch him. They
didn’t succeed. He is still at large.

1950
A feature of this season’s Cambridge ladies hockey club is that it includes three
sets of twins, from the Harris, Macleod and Cook families. The club started over 50
years ago on one of Mr Nutter’s fields at Grantchester but moved to the paddock at
Pinehurst. They now play on the Perse girls school ground. Past members of the club
include Miss Rose Macaulay, the authoress, Miss Irene Flanders and Miss Margaret
Field Hyde, both well-known in the musical world.

1925

Cambridge Chief Constable reported that the present motor ambulance is showing
signs of wear and in need of a thorough overhaul. It had travelled upwards of
13,000 miles and conveyed 1,500 patients. It had cost was £800, the chassis was
secondhand. During this time £700 has been received for its use by private persons.
The committee recommended the purchase of a new motor ambulance, built by a special
ambulance body builder, at a cost not exceeding £1,000.

1900

An inquest was held at Wentworth on the body of a four-year old boarded out child
from Dr Barnardo’s Home who was found drowned. A farmer’s wife said she took charge
of the deceased last June. A lady brought the child to her from Dr Barnardo’s Home
and she was to receive payment for its lodging and keeping. It was awkward that
nobody was present representing the Home. They had telegraphed there on Saturday
and again on Monday, but had received no reply. The Coroner remarked that was very
bad form.

Wednesday 22nd March

1975

An appeal for £30,000 has been launched to convert the old Cheddar’s Lane Pumping
Station into a technology museum. The existing pumping station provides a
centrepiece for the museum, representing technological developments during the 19th
century. Single storey extensions with galleries to house exhibits are being built
at the Riverside split-level site. A special gallery may be designed to enable
children of all ages to participate in the building of working models. The museum
began in 1968 when the old pumping station was replaced by an electric plant

1950

“She was a good and satisfactory wife, so one would imagine, at least until all of
a sudden, apparently under the encouragement of a moderate amount of alcohol, she
appears light-heartedly to have committed adultery with her brother-in-law”, said
Mr Commissioner Campbell in granting a decree nisi to a husband at Cambridge
divorce court. “It makes me wonder whether some sort of midsummer madness came upon
her. It is all very puzzling,” he said

1925

Described as “Chesterton’s super cinema”, the Tivoli made its debut before the
Cambridge public when there were two opening performances. Elaborate, cosy,
artistically lighted and efficiently ventilated, Cambridge’s sixth cinema has every
justification for expressing itself in superlatives. It has a courteous staff pf
brown-uniformed attendants, an excellent orchestra and a screen sufficiently large
to do justice to the most elaborate film productions. The projection last night was
not perfect, but this was merely a matter of adjustment.

1900
At Addenbrooke’s Hospital there is a ttraining home for nurses, which is one of the
most successful institutions of its kind. It makes a significant contribution to
the funds of the Hospital. For this reason alone it is well worth the while of the
Governors to give their best efforts in maintaining it in a high state of
efficiency
Thursday 23rd March

1975

Cambridge has become a garrison town, with more soldiers living within a 10-mile
radius of the city than University dons. With the arrival of a new infantry
regiment at Oakington there are now 2,500 soldiers in the area with 2,000
dependants. Most of the troops are stationed at Bassingbourn with the army
engineers at the former battle of Britain RAF station at Waterbeach. There is no
larger concentration of troops than this in East Anglia, other than at Colchester.

1950

The desperate plight of the people who as a last resort have been compelled to
occupy, as squatters, the former RAF huts on the corner of Newmarket High street
and the Wood Ditton road was emphasised at Newmarket county court. The land on
which the huts were built were originally leased to Mr R. Day, the trainer, and the
Ministry requisition order took effect during the war, when the huts were occupied.
After the war the premises were transferred to the Ministry of Works with the
intention of housing certain agricultural workers – a scheme that was ultimately
dropped. Nothing further was done and the Ministry eventually expressed a desire to
derequisition the premises and clear the hutments from the site. In the meantime,
however, squatters had taken over.

Friday 24th March

1975

Detailed recommendations aimed at presenting the town centres of St Neots, St Ives

and Huntingdon from becoming “deserts” of industry and commerce – where no one
lives – have been studied by Huntingdon district council. Up until the 1950s, the
three town centres were mainly residential except for small cores of commerce. Even
these had their high proportion of flats. Then came the dramatic expansion of the
1960s and 70s in housing with shops and offices following hard on its heels.
Commercial activity forced out residential considerations and together with
worsening traffic conditions the town centres gradually became less desirable
places to live.

1950

Two very popular BBC starts, Jack (“Can you eat it”) Train and Anona (“Psychic
Clara”) Winn, together with the mystery voice (Norman Hackforth) are coming to the
New Theatre, Cambridge, in a stage version of the great radio success “Twenty
Questions”. A novel feature is that members of the audience will be invited to take
part in each performance and all participating will be given a prize. Preceding
this both Jack Train and Anona Winn will be seen and heard in their now world-
famous variety acts. They are supported by an impressive cast of artistes, making a
combination which has been playing to capacity business everywhere and which makes
a visit to the New “a must” next week

MEMORIES, by Mike Petty

Monday 27th March

1975

Cambridge pubs range from grimy to gracious according to a drinker’s guide just
published by a group of undergraduates. Grime, according to the guide, is
synonymous with the Locomotive pub in Mill Road, and grace is one of the virtues of
the Plough Inn at Fen Ditton. Praise is lavished on the “thematic scheme” of the
Galleon bar in the Burleigh Arms, Newmarket Road. The Free Press has “exceptional
character” and the Baker’s Arms, East Road, is called a “refreshing surprise”. The
Bun Shop, Downing Street is said to be “something of a Cambridge institution and
well worth a visit”

1950

The Ministry of Education is to be asked to approve a provision for the erection of

a new juniors and infants school at Longstanton in the 1951-54 building programme
to relieve overcrowding there and at Willingham. No child over five was refused and
the new school would be put in hand as soon as possible; meanwhile, a “very
suitable hut” was to be used as temporary accommodation

1925

The county recommended that where it becomes necessary to provide a new public
elementary school for a parish by reason of the Managers of a non-provided school
closing the school or failing to secure recognition of it as an efficient school,
three-fourths of the expenses incurred may be charged on the parishes which in the
opinion of the council are served by the school. If people knew the greater part of
the expense of building a new school would fall on the parish they would bring
pressure to see the old school was repaired.

1900

What would doubtless have proved a serious outbreak of fire occurred at Newmarket
Union Workhouse at Exning. A strong smell of burning wood became noticeable and the
caretaker of the larder, which is adjacent to the Master’s sitting room, on
searching for the cause, noticed smoke coming through the lath and plaster ceiling
of the larder. Buckets of water were poured and a large garden syringe
requisitioned by the Jockey Club Owners and Trainers Fire Brigade.

Tuesday 28th March

1975

A bus ride from the outskirts of Cambridge to the city centre is slightly cheaper
than a taxi fare. It’s a close thing if you share a taxi with three other people,
but if four are travelling together the private car journey, even with a 10p
parking fee, is still the cheapest course. Camtax say from Cherry Hinton to the
city centre the fare would be 53p. plus 2p VAT.

1950

Chesterton RDC have decided to make a compulsory purchase order for the acquisition
of land at Comberton for housing. They relied on the parish council in choosing the
land. It was the only site in the village likely to be available for housing. It
was five or six acres in area and had a frontage of 300 feet. The site would need
“a lot of work”.

1925

First season difficulties were revealed at the annual meeting of the County School
Old Boys Rugby Club. Already the venture has 40 members, unfortunately the time-
honoured trouble of getting members to pay their subscriptions has been experienced
and the season was concluded with an adverse balance. The wet weather militated
against the activities of the club and difficulty was often experienced to turn out
a full team. However high hopes are entertained for substantial success in the
forthcoming season.

1900

A debate at New Chesterton Institute was told that while at the beginning of the
century. Cambridge could only boast one weekly paper, they now had something like
half-a-dozen weeklies and two dailies. During the past few years the Press
generally had lost its influence for good upon the public. He did not think in
recent years that editors had improved (Laughter). One sometimes heard that editors
were “got at” and that sometimes big prices fetched extravagant leaders. There was
too much reporting of police-court cases and inquests and they could do with a
little less of the tragedy. The minds of the young were being poisoned by these
things.

Wednesday 29th March

1975

56 girls want to lead the cheers for the Cambridge “It’s a Knock Out” team – and
the organiser are so impressed they have arranged for a mass audition. The girls
will be trained to do a cheer leader routine in front of a crow of 10,000 when
Cambridge takes on Peterborough and Oxford at the Cambridge City FC ground on May
25th. Contenders include Mrs Judith Slater of Sawston, Debbie Haddock of Haddenham,
Ann Pretty, a ballet student of Cambridge and Mandy Turner, a food research
technician

1950

Plans are being made for Cambridgeshire’s part in the Civil Defence recruiting
drive. The organiser said: “We have a unique responsibility in Cambridge, for it
was here that the atom was first split, and it is surely only fitting that the
citizens of this town should be among the first to rally to civil defence and learn
what measures of protection can be taken against the serious menace of the atom
bomb”

1925

The death of the vicar of Lode occurred under tragic circumstances within a few
yards of the Vicarage. He was walking along the right had side of the road. A motor
oil delivery van, belonging to the Anglo-American Oil Company had just turned the
corner from the direction of Bottisham. William Sargent, a blacksmith said he heard
the hooter sound and the driver shouted. The motor van was only going about two
miles an hour when it passed his shop. The vicar was lying between the two near
side wheels, the front wheel had passed over his head.

1900
A bedmaker’s help was charged with stealing various articles of clothing from a
room at Emmanuel college. She had taken four waistcoats and three pairs of trousers
to Norman Bradley’s pawnbrokers in Fitzroy Street. She had also pledged a vest for
1s.6d., a pair of gold studs for 4s.,& a nightshirt, pants etc which she said were
her own property. As a customer for the past 30 years the manager was quite
satisfied with her explanation

Thursday 30th March

1975

The kitchen oven was doing overtime and the skilled hands of a skilful housewife at
Lt Eversden were kneading and pressing the dough all day. The baking demon is Mrs
Jill Marshall, who wants to help the village recreation ground committee out of its
present money troubles. She hopes to have hundreds of hot cross buns ready by Good
Friday morning. She is taking a gallon of milk a day this week, and has a sack of
flour. She is no newcomer to the culinary big time. Her speciality is multiple-
tiered wedding cakes.

1950

17-years-old Joy Carter of Newmarket Road, Cambridge was by popular vote last night
chosen as Miss Cambridgeshire, 1950. She was one of four entrants who reached the
finals of this fifth annual contest held at the Rex Ballroom. The others were
Angela Barker of Gt Shelford, Jean Hickman of Histon and Dorothy Sampson of Ramsden
Square, Cambridge.

1925

The stamp machine attached to the door of the General Post Office in Cambridge is
such a boon that I hesitate to complain. But on no fewer than five occasions I have
found the penny slot fail to act correctly. On the first occasion the machine
delivered me two penny stamps for one copper. I was wondering what to do when
another purchaser came along and slipped a penny in the slot without result, so I
handed one over. The next time I received no stamp for my penny, and wiped that off
as a loss. On the third occasion I got two stamps for the price of one, so cried
“quits”. For those who like a little speculation these stamp machines are ideal

1900

Four youths living in Ely were summoned under the Highways Act for playing hockey
in West End. All pleaded guilty except Smith, who claimed he did not touch the
ball. PC Green said they were running about and knocking the ball into the middle
of the road. Smith had said “There’s Green, he’ll have you”. Play paused for a
while but was resumed in St John’s Place. Defendants were ordered to pay 8s.6d.,
the court expenses, between them

Friday 31st March

1975

The Oyster Tavern in Northampton St, Cambridge is one of those restaurants that
only those in the know are likely to be able to find. It is still listed in the
telephone directory under “Bistro Italo”. Those who remember the old Bistro will
probably avoid it. They will be making a big mistake. Sirloin steak is offered at
£1.90, salted beef at £1.40 and chicken Provencale at £1.25. Like almost everyone
else we chose seafood and did not regret it. Apple pie and cream and chocolate nut
sundae were both 25p.

1950

An appeal for greater member ship of the British Legion was made at the annual
dinner of the Waterbeach and Landbeach branch. The branch president: “Our strength
is in district and rural branches and our weakness is in the towns and cities”. In
country branches membership was as good as one in ten.

1925

The manager of the Co-operative Society, Ely, told the court he had missed small
sums of money from the employee’s leather cash bags, which had been hung up in the
office for the men to give customers change. The police gave him two bags
containing marked coins – two single shillings, four sixpences and twelve pennies,
which he hung up in the cashier’s office, then locked up and left the premises.
Police kept watch and saw defendant climb over a fence at the rear. A few moments
later he returned. He was arrested and found to have the marked coins

1900

This afternoon the last inter-Varsity Boat Race of the century was rowed over the
usual course, from Putney to Mortlake. For the first time for many years the
weather was beautifully fine, and the many thousands who lined the banks and
crowded the bridges and barges were able to witness the race with much comfort – a
state of affairs entirely opposite to that experienced last year. Cambridge won.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 3rd April

1975

Melbourn, South Cambridgeshire’s worst kept village, is determined to remove that

insulting title from its records. But residents have a tough job on their hands
because they claim the biggest rubbish culprits are people driving through the
village. Last year the judges in the Best Kept Village competition relegated them
to the bottom spot. The parish council feel the solution to their litter problem
will only come when the proposed by-pass is built in a few years time. “When we get
the by-pass we shall be a village again”, said Mr Aldridge. One of the worst spots
is the village green near the traffic lights. Nearly every evening it was crowded
with young people who tended to throw Coca-Cola tins and other litter on the green.

1950

For 25 years the name of E.R. Blount has been actively associated with the Ely Beet
Sugar Factory, first under the original Anglo-Dutch organisation and subsequently
as agriculturist since the formation of the British Sugar Corporation some 15 years
ago. He has witnessed the development of a crop yielding 18,000 tons of sugar beet
in 1925 to the present annual level of a quarter of a million tons. The 2,500
growers who now annually supply the factory will miss the familiar signature which
has appeared on something like 100,000 cheques amounting to £20 million.
1925

Most people in Cambridge saw the giant R.33 airship as she passed over on her
flight from Cardington to Pulham air station, Norfolk. Those who were not aware of
the intended flight were attracted by the noise of the engines and were rather
surprised to see the ponderous vessel instead of a battalion of aeroplanes. She
passed over Cambridge at about 8.30 and proceeded via Newmarket. The flight was of
an experimental nature and on arrival at Pulham the R.33 carried out a number of
air manoeuvres.

1900

Sergt-Major F. Ingle of the Imperial Light Horse, who was formerly employed by
Messrs Eaden Lilley & co., and is a son of the late Mr Ingle, whitesmith of
Cambridge, who was in the beleaguered town of Ladysmith throughout the siege, has
written to his brother. “Only by going into every house, hole or corner, could you
be lucky enough to find someone who had found in some unexpected place, a small
amount of food that had been mislaid or forgotten”

Tuesday 4th April

1975

Joe Bugner will not be fighting Muhammad Ali for the world heavyweight championship
next June. Ali, after his win over Chuck Wepner, declared that Bugner would be his
next opponent. But the world champion has had second thoughts. Andy Smith, Bugner’s
manager, said, “Quite frankly, he’s afraid that Bugner with his strength, fast
jabbing and his intelligence, will beat him”

1950

The death of Dr Alexander Wood, University don and distinguished townsman, has
robbed Cambridge of one of its best-known public figures. He stood as Labour
candidate for Cambridge University in 1929 and for Cambridge in 1931, 34 & 35. He
represented Labour in the fight for the New Town ward in the Cambridge borough
elections in 1925 and was defeated. Elected next year there followed an unbroken
period of service until 1945 when he was made an Alderman. For the last 10 years he
was chairman of the Cambridge housing committee & worked tirelessly to ease living
conditions in Cambridge. He often confessed publicly his sense of the great
responsibility he held.

1925

Newmarket council heard that work on the Rows housing site was proceeding slowly
owing to illness amongst the men. At one time half the bricklayers were away. The
first pair of houses have now been plastered, and some of the joinery fixed. The
third and fourth pair are roofed in, and stairs are fixed in the third pair. Of the
sixth pair the brickwork has been carried up about three feet above the floor
level. Foundations have been dug on the Stamford street site and the specifications
drawn up for the Laureate Paddocks site.

1900

The following appointments of parish constables were made: Burwell, H. Martin;

Brinkley, F. Geo. Howard; Cheveley, J. Nicholls; Chippenham, A. Duffield;
Dullingham, J. Smith; Fordham G.R. Godfrey; Isleham, J. Dilley; Soham H. Rouse;
Wicken, W. Barton; Wood Ditton J.J. Howe & C. Cates.

Wednesday 5th April

1975

Leaving your car in the Lion Yard car park, Cambridge, between 5.30 pm and 6.30 pm
can be costly. Mrs Carol Taylor of Trumpington drove her car into the Lion Yard at
5.46 pm and drove out again at 6.18 pm. She was charged 17p – 7p for the 14 minutes
before 6 o’clock and 10p for the 18 minutes after. The charges change at 6 pm when
the evening tariff comes into operation. She felt this was an unfair charge for 32
minutes of parking time.

1950

A six-month search to find a girl worthy of the title of Cambridgeshire Village

Beauty Queen ended at the Embassy Ballroom with a win for Oakington. The
competition was organised by Mr Leo Neaves to raise money for the Cancer campaign.
The winner was 17-years-old Mrs Vima Stearn who received a CDN Challenge Cup, an
inscribed bannerette, a scarlet and white swimsuit and a tray. The second prize
went to Miss Balsham, June Morley, who received a silver-plated dish. Miss Duxford,
Pauline Warner, came third. Her prize was a handbag. A special prize for the best
figure when to Sheila Leftley of Elsworth who secured the much-coveted prize of
nylons.

1925

To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the well-known motor firm of King & Harper,
nearly 200 people attended a reception and dance at the New Rendezvous. Mr King,
the senior partner said: “In 1897 or 1898 I saw a motor for the first time. It was
a De Dion tricycle brought from Paris by the Hon C.S. Rolls who was then up at
college; he also brought a French mechanic to take care of it. He lent me his
tricycle and mechanic and we drove it to Ely and back without a breakdown. This
made me anxious to learn more about motors”

1900

Newmarket council heard that a Manchester firm had submitted examples of very cheap
enamelled hackney carriage badges, but as the sample was inferior to that submitted
by Mr Simpson of Newmarket, and as he had quoted a greatly reduced price, it was
decided to give him the order.

Thursday 6th April

1975

More than 40,000 people in the Huntingdon and St Neots areas are running a higher
than average risk of drinking contaminated water. An Anglian Water Authority
spokesman said water supplied from the Brampton treatment works could be hit by
“lightning pollution”. The works take part of its supply direct from the River Ouse
just before treatment, so any pollution in the river goes straight into the plant.
For many years there has been problems with the drinking water supplied by
Brampton, because there were not sufficient storage facilities.

1950
Bertram Mills’ circus elephants will lend their weight to the National Savings
drive when they arrive in Cambridge. Starting from the railway station the six
elephants will parade through the streets to Midsummer Common, carrying as their
trappings photographic reproductions of the well-known savings poster having a
white elephant as its subject. All will be ready for the menagerie attached to the
circus to be opened from Saturday afternoon

1925

Cambridge Board of Guardians discussed the question of securing the repayment of

the relief granted in loans to those concerned in the building strike in August
last year. Mr Branston said he was not sure they had acted legally in giving relief
to able-bodied people who were on strike, all they could do was to relieve the
wives and children of those men. Several of the men started to pay the loans back
by instalments and had stopped for the reason that other people were not attempting
to pay back the money they had had. Others stopped at the instance of “so-called
friends of the unemployed” who seemed to do nothing but stir up trouble.

1900

Private Percy Darby, one of the Cambridge men serving in South Africa, describes
the rations of an ordinary fighting man. They got two biscuits for a day’s rations,
and as for bread he had not seen any for a month. The number of prisoners coming
into the English camp made matters worse for our troops had to give half their
rations to the captured enemy. He saw two wagon loads of dead Highlanders brought
into the camp. “They looked horrible; their heads and legs hanging over the sides
of the wagon as blue and black as anything. They buried 59 of them in one long
grave and it made me feel quite bad”

Friday 7th April

1975

A wooden road sign at Cottenham is of special significance to one of its villagers,

Mr Alfred Maskell. He made the sign in the last few weeks before his retirement at
the Highways depot at Cottenham. The sign, together with another at Meldreth, may
turn out to be two of the last wooden ones in this area. Wooden road signs have
been phased out in favour of metal ones for about 15 years, although some have been
used when residents have specially asked for them.

1950

Mr N.A. Hudleston states: “I have just bought the main timbers of the fine carved
oak roof of Wendy church. They are extremely massive and are said to date from the
16th century. They were offered to me as firewood for £6. Wendy church was built in
1865 and the roof is said to come from an old church at Cambridge. It is being
demolished because failure in the foundations has made it unsafe”.

1925

A general meeting was held with the object of forming a bowling club for the city
of Ely. They had one club in the city, but being a political club, it debarred some
from playing the ancient game of bowls. They had had a green offered to them by the
Sports Association on the Paradise Recreation Ground, near the position where the
winning post was placed on sports’ day. Part of the green lay on the cycle track.
The turf was the best in Ely.
1900

The shopkeepers of Cambridge who have agreed to close early on Thursday afternoons
during the May term have shown a consideration for their employees which is
deserving of the highest praise. There is much to be said for early closing all the
year round but the next best thing is that throughout the summer months, while the
attractions of the open air hold out, shop assistants should have a few hours of
breathing space every week. The shopkeepers will gain a good deal. Their assistants
will serve them all the better because they are considerately treated, and the
approval of the general public will be theirs also.

Looking Back Compiled Eve

Monday 10th April

1975

Snow ploughs and salting trucks were fighting the snow-ice blanket which dropped
over Cambridgeshire. In one of the county’s heaviest falls the snow settled to two-
inch-thick carpets on the major roads as county council emergency highway crews
worked in darkness to keep them clear. Some of the worst affected roads were in the
Haverhill area. Weather experts are reporting further snow falls today.

1950

Members of the Shelford rifle club held a gala night to mark the opening of their
new 25-yards indoor range. This is the first small-bore range to be opening in the
county since the war. Constructed on the most modern principle, with concealed
lighting on the targets it comprises three firing points, the pitch and structure
of the roof eliminates noise and the whole is designed to afford the maximum
opportunity for high scoring.

1925

Two attempts were made to stop an armed motorist who broke into Daisley’s shop at
Coronation Street, Cambridge, & stole a quantity of chocolates, cigarettes etc. A
car travelling at high speed was seen by a constable at Bishop’s Stortford. Shortly
after PC Dodson of Harlow police station was notified of the approach of the car.
Dashing out of the police station in his pyjamas he stood in the middle of the road
and signalled the car to stop. It continued its course and the constable had to
jump very quickly out of the way.

1900

Three boys were summoned for damaging monuments in the parish churchyard at Dunmow.
A seven-year old boy was called for the prosecution. His mother informed the Bench
that it would be useless to swear him. He was always telling lies and it would be
all false what he told the Bench about the matter.

Tuesday 11th April

1975

Long term predictions about water shortages are beginning to look slightly off key
as national population forecasts plummet. Only a few years ago ambitious plans were
being made to swamp vast areas of good agricultural land in order to keep pace with
demand. Now it looks like a false alarm. Plans for reservoirs like those at
Abbotsley, St Neots, and Gt Bradley, Haverhill, rarely come out for a dusting. Even
the Wash reservoir scheme may prove a costly indulgence. Population statistics have
always been notoriously unpredictable. In the Eastern region the authority will
probably have to cater for a 2001 population of nearly 7 ½ million against the
present 5 million

1950

Bertram Mill’s famous “big top” show has opened in Cambridge. Here in the well-
known romantic atmosphere, strangely fascinating in its queer smell of sawdust and
canvas, is paraded an amazing display of human and animal talent. Have you ever
seen dogs play football? Or a lion walk at tightrope? Or elephants that do the
elephant equivalent of a handstand? Or … but this review is in danger of becoming a
mere catalogue of questions – an instance of the mood of questioning wonderment the
Circus is apt to induce in the onlooker.

1925

PS Newell told the court that he saw the prisoners and, becoming suspicious,
enlisted the services of various well-disposed people in Littleport, and surrounded
the Marquis of Granby Hotel, which was to all intents and purposes in a state of
siege. He invited the men to come out of their room but the reply he got was, “If
you attempt to force the door we shall shoot”. In fairness to the prisoners it
should be said that when they were arrested no forearms were found upon them. In
their endeavour to get away they had drawn the bedstead up to the window and
knotted the sheets with the view of lowering themselves to the ground.

1900

Amongst the Baptists at Willingham a serious split has arisen. The members of the
church are arrayed against the ordinary members of the congregation as to whether
only members of the church could act in the appointment of a pastor, or whether the
congregation had a voice in the matter. The dispute was submitted to the president
of the Baptist Union.

Wednesday 12th April

1975

It is difficult to equate gastronomic expertise with Mill Road, Cambridge. But when
faced with a fancy for honest French cuisine it is just the place to go. For
although La Garconne is a modest restaurant there is nowhere else quite like it.
There is the temptation of pigeon in red wine (£1.10), or a casserole of rabbit
(£1). Unfortunately the coq au vin (£1.35) was not ready until later in the
evening. A brandy at 40p rounded off a very good meal for two which cost £7.86. It
is possible to have an equally satisfying meal for two, with wine, for just under
£4. By today’s standards that is pretty good.

1950

Mr J. Hyden, who until recently was a station officer in the Cambridge fire brigade
has given up the job of quenching fires to take on one of quenching thirsts. He is
now the landlord of the Durham Ox in Mill Road, Cambridge. The reason for the
change is that since he was burnt nearly three years ago by mustard gas when
helping to put out a fire near Fulbourn on a train carrying cylinders, he has
suffered from skin trouble when exposed to heat.
1925

The employees of the East Anglia Cement Company, who are on strike at Shepreth,
visited Cambridge. They marched in procession to Parker’s Piece where a platform
was in readiness for a mass meting organised by the Cambridge Trades Council. On
the arrival of the strikers a very large crowd quickly gathered. The speaker
protested against the idea that because the wages of agricultural labourers were
low, those of cement workers should also be low.

1900

On Good Friday the members of Trumpington Free Church held a tea meeting in their
new place of worship in the village. To the tea about one hundred persons sat down.
There was a small attendance at the subsequent meeting. The chairman said the
building was very nearly paid for. 118 persons had contributed a shilling or less
which showed a large number of people in Trumpington had a share in the building.

Thursday 13th April

1975

The Prime Minister, Harold Wilson, came to Cambridge last night. For an hour he
overcame both hecklers and the notorious acoustics of the city’s Corn Exchange to
win a standing ovation from almost 1,000 people. His main topic was the Common
Market. He then went through a list of election promises and while harassed by the
hecklers, who had paid 15p to get into the meeting, spelled out how each promise
had been fulfilled.

1950

A new pumping station was opened at Chear Fen, near Stretham. Mr A.G. Wright
recalled that the old station had opened in 1842. It had consisted of a beam-type
steam engine powered by two boilers and coupled to a paddle wheel. It ran during
the 1947 floods but only for a short time, when one of the boilers ceased to
function and the other boiler only showed 35 lbs pressure. This plant was
dismantled in 1949. In 1928 a new engine house was built, where a Blackstone Diesel
engine was installed coupled to a Gwyne’s pump.

1925
About 120 members of the 1st Cambridgeshire Regiment are spending the Easter
weekend under canvas at Madingley. The Cambridge-St Neot’s road acted as part of
the front line of a British force which was endeavouring to repel an invader
marching on London. The Norfolk Brigade was ordered to take up position from
Oakington to Comberton. The work was carried out under service conditions & proved
exceptionally difficult on account of the wooded nature of the country in front

1900
It is exactly 37 years ago that the Baptists of Swaffham Prior became possessed of
a building in which to hold their services. Mr George Apthorpe recalled how in
1859 some one approached him to ask whether he would go to Swaffham. He readily
assented but found some difficulty in finding one who would open his house for the
conduct of a Nonconformist service in that stronghold of ecclesiasticism.
Accordingly he went to the late Mr Frederick Palmby who granted the use of his
barn. Soon the services were attended by some 500 people.
Friday 14th April

1975
A screaming crowd of 2,000 teenagers blocked Haverhill High Street as BBC Radio One
DJ and television personality Noel Edmonds opened a record shop. As the crowd,
mainly of young girls, rushed the shop, the main window broke under pressure and
the police had to evacuate the building. Inside the shop 26-year-old Noel, suavely
dressed in open-necked brown pattern shirt, cream jacket and brown flared trousers
and Cuban-heeled boots was completely unruffled.

1950

Vivid impressions of life in a Japanese prison of war camp are to be seen in a

remarkable series of pictures to be seen on view at Mitcham’s store, Cambridge. The
work of Charles Thrale, the pictures were painted on the spot with human hair,
jungle roots, clay, crushed pencils, blood, boiled book covers & brass polish on
tissue paper, wrapping paper and Jap field cards.

1925

Good Friday dawned damp and dismal. Parker’s Piece was the great gathering place of
the merry makers. In accordance with custom many people produced skipping ropes and
skipped away to their hearts’ content. Old men & maidens, young men & children –
likewise grand dames – jumped up and down to “Salt, mustard, vinegar, pepper” and
similar meaningless jungles. Hawkers of balloons, ices, fruit and sweets had
secured “pitches” at the East Road corner and did good business. Ices, yesterday
morning – b-r-r-r!

1900

High winds have made the Easter holidays less pleasant that could have been
desired. It has been weather which has put the temper severely to the test. Gusts
of wind, dust driving along the road, discover the weak point in a man or woman’s
patience very quickly. These holidays have been most disappointing to cyclists.
They had looked forward to merry spins along country roads; those who have ventured
forth have had experience of pedalling in the teeth of a gale. It is impossible to
imagine they were getting pleasure out of their favourite pastime.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 17 April

1975

Eight old houses near the railway line, at Mill Road, Cambridge, are being offered
by the city council, which owns them, to dossers and down-and-outs. The houses are
scheduled for eventual demolition to allow British Rail to widen the bridge when it
starts work on electrifying the main Cambridge-London line. But because no date has
been set the council has offered them on an annual basis to Cambridge Night
Shelter. The council considers the houses which stand on the Argyle Street corner
to be suitable because there are no other occupied houses immediately adjacent.

1950

Messrs Kelly Ltd, publishers of over 200 directors, have begun work in preparation
for the second Cambridge edition, which should be ready next year. A staff of some
40 people are engaged on the work and during the next six months representatives
will be in Cambridge compiling the new edition and checking names, addresses etc.
The book will contain a streets section, commercial section, private residents and
classified trades sections. It will also include streets on the post-war housing
estates in the borough

1925

The Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen organised their annual
tea and concert in the Co-op Hall. Mr W. Few presided over a company of 400 and
announced there would be a meeting to form a local branch of the ASLEF Women’s
Society. They must not think they were all going to be President. The greatest
curse of Labour and all societies connected with it was that everybody wanted to be
topdog

1900

Cambridge Town Council moved a resolution tendering its sincere congratulations to

the Prince of Wales on his escape from the recent attempt on his life. The Prince
was intimately connected with Cambridge. They must deeply regret the epidemic of
frenzy against this country which at the present moment was upon the continent, and
nowhere more than in the Belgium. The violent language of the press sometimes
affected the minds of excitable people and led to regrettable outbursts.

Tues 18th April

1975

The main cooling towers of the £200,000 million nuclear power station which the
Central Electricity Generating Board may construct on the former airfield site at
Molesworth would be almost 400 feet high, the planning committee was told. And
there could be up to six such tower buildings each 300 feet in diameter at the
base. They would probably stand on the only piece of high ground in the area and be
visible along the whole of the Nene valley and across large tracts of
Cambridgeshire countryside. The prospect of such buildings was described councillor
Robert James as “horrific”.

1950

The naming ceremony of “The county of Cambridgeshire”, a new kind of luxury double-
deck vehicle owned by Premier Travel Ltd was performed by the chairman of the
County Council. Tearing an adhesive strip off the small nameplate Ald Frost wished
good luck to everyone who drives it. Afterwards he and other guests went for a ride
in the coach. It’s smooth running, luxury seating and smart appearance drew
favourable comment. An unusual safety feature is the fitting of a pneumatic door
normally opened by the driver. The coach will carry 53 passengers on its two decks.
It is designed for long-distance travel and will be used to carry private parties.

1925

A score of people assembled in St Bene’t’s church. Cambridge, for the purpose of

hearing the John Mere commemoration sermon preached and benefiting materially as
well as spiritually by sharing in Mere’s benefaction to the extent of sums ranging
from twopence to 3s.4d. Mere died in 1558 and gave certain property to the
University. The Vice Chancellor should preach a sermon in grateful remembrance for
which he is to have 3s.4d. for his labours. In failure of the sermon the penalty of
10s is to be levied by the churchwardens upon the university.
1900

Cambridge town council were told a conference had been held between two members of
the committee and the Master and Bursar of Emmanuel College with reference to the
construction of a new street from Drummer Street to St Andrew’s Street, and the
closing and giving up of Emmanuel Street to the college.

Wednesday 19th April

1975

The Labour-controlled Cambridge city council has decided by a two-to-one majority

to develop the Burleigh-Fitzroy area mainly as a regional shopping centre in
partnership with Jesus College and a London property company. This is the first
definite and much substantial move the city council has taken about the future of
the so-called “Kite” area in the 15 years of controversy and discussion that has
surrounded it.

1950

A crowd of over 5,000 gathered in glorious sunshine for the first open meeting on
the new racing circuit at Bedwell Hey, near Ely. It was run jointly by the C.U.
Auto Club and the Ely Motorcycle club and was open to all members of the British
Motor Cycle Racing Club. The course record was set by George Brown on a 500 cc
works Vincent, touching 98 mph on the 500-yard back straight, but his machine
seized up half way through.

1925

Tributes to the success with which the Universities of Britain had grappled with
the difficulties resulting from war conditions is paid in a report. They have had
to put their academic houses into some kind of repair after the storm of war by
filling the gaps in their staffs and improvise measures for dealing with an
unexpected influx of students, many of whom were of an unusual type, the special
produce of the war. Under the Government scheme for higher education of ex-Service
entrants, over 26,000 men were assisted with grants to take courses of study. They
can be little doubt that the demand for University education will continue to grow
in volume and intensity.

1900

Wicken Fen is, it is reported, about to be reclaimed. Enclosed by broad ditches

which can only be jumped with the help of a pole, it is overgrown with coarse sedge
and sallow-bush. Rare plants and insects lurk in this natural state and makes a
happy hunting-ground for the botanist and entomologist. The swallow-tail, perhaps
the most beautiful of English butterflies, still lingers, though not nearly so
common as formerly when it was less hunted and the food plant of its caterpillar
grew almost everywhere. During the past 200 years fields have replaced the marshes.
On the whole it is a change for the better, yet one space might well be preserved
as a survival of the olden time

Thursday 20th April

1975
Policemen have gone off on LSD “trips” just be handling a new super-powerful LSD
pill, the size of a ball-point pen tip. And now there are warnings that the drug
may be circulating in the mid-Anglia region and may find its way into
Cambridgeshire. CID Commander Det Supt Bernard Hotson, confirmed that his force had
been warned to look out for the purple and black speckled pills – and not to handle
them.

1950

The dignified, rather sombre large hall of the Cambridge Guildhall echoed to the
unusual sounds of skirling bagpipes and the shouts of Scottish men and women. They
were enthusiastic members of the Cambridge Scottish Society setting about enjoying
themselves in the traditional energetic yet graceful manner. So attractive a
picture did the dancers make that both the stage and the balcony had a number of
spectators using them to get a birds-eye “overall” picture of the dance floor.

1925

When attempting to pass one of Mesrs Course’s St Ives motor buses near the New Inn,
Swavesey, Mr James Tanfield who was riding a Douglas motor cycle combination
collided with a telegraph post. The bus had been keeping in the centre of the road,
and in trying to pass he ran his cycle on to the grass roadside, the wheel of the
sidecar remaining on the road. The front wheel ran into a draining grip and caused
the machine to collide with the post.

1900

A serious bus accident happened in Mill Road, Cambridge. The omnibus was waiting
for passengers opposite the Royal Standard public house and while the driver was
talking on the path, the horses for some unknown reason bolted. The driver and
conductor immediately ran after the horses, but were unable to catch them. Two
passengers named Annie & Frances Scull, who were on the top of the ‘bus jumped off.
When the bus was about to pass the Durham Ox it collided with a market cart
belonging to Jonas Wilmott, carrier of Orwell and then another cart in charge of
Eli Newman, a hawker, of Bottisham.

Friday 21st April

1975

The Government has given permission to the giant Shell petrol company to look for
oil in south Cambridgeshire. The area selected extends from Gt Shelford up to
Royston and southwards through Hertfordshire as far as Buntingford. In the west it
takes in Ashwell, Steeple Morden and Gamlingay, while in the east it extends almost
to Saffron Walden. The actual drilling areas have not yet been selected. Nearly six
years ago an American oil company planned to make test borings in the north
Cambridgeshire fens. A few years before that tests were made near Saffron Walden.
Nothing came of either project

1950

Magistrates were told that Mr Bell and his family of Littleport were having tea
when a daughter cut a slice of bread from a new loaf. They saw some hairs and a
little piece of flesh. The loaf was cut down the side and when opened there was a
five-inch mouse just inside the crust. The baker gave them another loaf and the
family were still trading with him. The baker said tf he had known there was a
mouse in the bread he would not have sold that particular dough, because he would
not wish to damage his goodwill and trade.
1925
On entering Sutton church the vicar found the vestry on fire. On a large oil stove
had been stacked the majority of the church archives, the church registers, vestry
carpets, surplices and other articles, all of which were ablaze. Further
investigation showed the contents of a decanter of wine had been sprinkled all over
the church, the marriage register being soaked with it. Candle grease was found
over nearly every pew and a vulcanite pipe-stem was wedged in the belfry door lock.
The offertory boxes containing money had been left intact. Had Canon Woodard not
arrived when he did the church would probably have been burnt down

1900

A fishmonger of Mill Road, Cambridge, told the bankruptcy court he had started
business in 1887 in King Street without any capital. He also traded as a vinegar
dealer. He had done some betting and made a small “book”. He had not kept accounts,
had gambled, had traded when he knew he was insolvent, and had incurred debts when
he had no prospect of paying them. It was a very unsatisfactory business altogether

Monday 24th April

1975

The Cambridgeshire library service will break down if money to run it continues to
be withheld by the County Council. The warning has been given by County Librarian,
Mr Royston Brown, in a report on the effects of “no growth” budgets. The report
adds “demands in many areas for provision will continue to increase in the next few
years and be accelerated by the current economic and social difficulties. Short of
new laws being made to forbid people from attending their local libraries it is
impossible to regulate the use of them”

1950

Civil Defence recruiting week in Cambridge opened with a bang when thunderflashes
were fired on the roof of the University Arms Hotel and volunteers and county
firemen went into action to put out the “fire” caused by the “enemy’s” bombs and
rescue those trapped inside. A crowd of several hundred gathered on Parker’s Piece
to watch the exhibition.

1925

The borough surveyor reported that the reconstruction of the cells at the refuse
destructor had been completed and it was now taking all the town’s refuse. Under
the old system there were three “topmen” and six “shovellers” employed to feed the
cells, now no shovellers were necessary and all men were doing similar work. He
recommended they should be called “chargers” and should all receive the same amount
of pay

1900
Cambridge was thrown into a state of intense excitement by the death of a local
tradesmen on Christ’s Pieces. The shades of night had not yet fallen when the loud
report of fire arms were heard. An elderly man rose from the seat he was occupying,
just off the path leading from Pike’s Walk to Emmanuel Street, staggered forward a
couple of paces, reeled round and fell. The fact was then revealed that he had shot
himself.

Tuesday 25th April

1975

Gerry Bol, the one-man-band who has tramped the streets of Cambridge collecting
pennies from passers-by, has been invited to play alongside some of Britain’s top
musical entertainers at Gonville & Caius May Ball. Dutch-born Mr Bol has been
busking in Cambridge since the beginning of this year. Since then his act has taken
off with requests from all over Western Europe and an offer of an American tour.

1950

An RAF jet “Meteor” fighter blew up in mid-air while flying over Newmarket, the
pilot being killed instantly. The explosion, which shook the windows of houses and
shops in the High Street, was seen by a large crowd of housewives who were out
shopping. One witness said it completely broke up, folding into nothing. Only the
fuselage held intact. The Meteor crashed into the ground some way off the Bury Road
on the edge of Moulton Paddocks, and wreckage was strewn over an area a mile
square.

1925

The Isle of Ely football committee secretary reported that Manea had written to the
Sutton football club, endeavouring to make a fixture for their last match and
eventually Sutton made a date, but later wrote to say they were unable to raise a
team. The club was a particularly difficult one to deal with. They were the most
unbusinesslike club in the Isle.

1900

An inquest on an unnamed child was held at The Mad Cat public house, Pidley. A
Somersham woman said she had acted for many years as midwife and had attended at
least 100 confinements. The child was born at 10.30 and died about one o’clock. It
was disfigured in the mouth. She gave it a little milk and warm water with a spoon
but it ran out of the corner of its mouth. She did not think the child could suck
and made no further attempt to give it any food. No doctor was sent for.

Wednesday 26th April

1975

The bells of the parish church at Everton, near St Neots, may soon be up for sale.
The church tower was struck by lightning last summer and a considerable part has
had to be demolished. As a result, there is no longer a belfry and nowhere to put
the five bells. If they are sold the money will go towards making up the deficit to
restore the damage. At the moment, however, permission has yet to be granted from
the chancellor of the Ely diocese

1950

After forming his own band only 12 months agao, local bandleader Chic Applin
successfully led his orchestra to first place in the Cambs. Dance Band Championship
organised by the “Melody Maker”. This award qualifies them to enter the South
Britain Contest which is to be held at the Hammersmith Palais. The 12-piece band
are well-known in Cambridge and regularly appear at the Carlton Hotel, Newmarket

1925

In 1908 the County council started a programme of reconstructing the roads in the
county, but they forgot about Cambridge. Nothing had been done apart from a few
roads in the middle and it was only recently that they realised there were motors
on the roads. Newmarket Road had been made up in the old way and in a few weeks
potholes appeared. The problem was the motor traffic. The money that was being
raised by motor taxation was being spent for purposes it was never intended to be
spent on. They must have the money for the roads from the proper quarter, namely
motor taxation.

1900

The driver of the mail van which conveys the mail bags and hampers from the Soham
district to the Norwich and London up mail train at Ely was driving up to the
Newmarket post office when one of the two horses harnessed to it began to kick and
he dismounted. Just at this time a German band began to play near the horses and
this still more alarmed them and they started off at a rapid pace in the direction
of Cambridge. The driver followed as quickly as possible and a number of cyclists
rode after them.

Thursday 27th April

1975

RAF Debden closed this week. The axe of economy has severed Saffron Walden’s last
real link with wartime Britain. The RAF isn’t making a bit fuss about it. A quiet
ceremony in front of the top brass from London and a private dining-in night in the
officers’ mess is the only salute the station will get. It was an accident which
caused the station to be built in the first place. An old Bulldog bi-plane crashed
in a wheat field near Debden in 1934. War Office men who inspected the remains
reported that it would be a good spot for an aerodrome.

1950

Cambridge housing commission received a deputation from the Gothic and Doric
streets tenants’ committee asking that the houses be demolished. A number were
living in over-crowded conditions and the houses were infested with vermin. Coun.
Proctor said “We have definitely got very bad houses and the housing position is
terrible”. But the council informed the Ministry of Health that they did not
require a NAAFI hut at Fenner’s sports ground which had been offered to be taken
over as temporary housing accommodation

1925

Over council and Over Church of England school were visited by members of the
County Education Committee. The average attendance at the first is 75 and the cost
of staffing is £590, and at the Church school 41 and the cost £395. They did not
require to be either financialists or educationalists to realise that it was much
better to have one school in a village of that sort, but the voluntary school
managers were unable to agree to the transfer of the older children to the council
school. The religious education given in the council school was as good as any in
the Church schools and public opinion would prevent such a state of things in the
future.
1900

The licensing committee were told that the Eagle Tavern in Great Chesterford should
be closed. The trade was meagre, only doing half a barrel a week, the house was in
an outlying part of the parish and in a dilapidated condition. That would leave the
village with two fully-licensed and six beerhouses, with a population of about 700,
which included those who did not drink at all. The bench agreed to the surrender of
the licences of the Eagle, the Fox & Hounds and the Wagon and Horses, but refused
the surrender of the White Horse.

Friday 28th April

1975

The King Street run or the King Street pint to pint is a Cambridge drinking
tradition. It means drinking eight pints of beer in two hours. In the old days King
Street had enough ale houses for the Run to be held along it, but now the
organisers have to plan the route incorporating public houses elsewhere. The run
last year ended at The Zebra in Newmarket Road but licensee Mrs M. Warren won’t be
allowing it again. Last year youths who vomited in Fair Street outside the Hopbine
bought a ban there on all future runs.

1950

The Cambridge public health committee are to meet a deputation from the Communist
Party on the question of raising the cost of baths from 6d to 9d at Gwydir Street
public baths. This would raise the cost of living and be a further burden on the
poor. The letter was supported by a petition with 300 signatures including people
from Swavesey, Teversham and Cherry Hinton. The Mayor said: “People come further
for a bath than I should imagine!”

1925

Haddenham folk were in a happy mood when a social was held in the Church Hall to
celebrate the opening of a new branch of the Ely Co-operative Society in the
village. The new premises, which were erected by Mr H. Feast, a local builder,
comprise departments for groceries, provisions, drapery & boots. Years ago the Co-
operative tree was planted in Ely, and first of all it branched out to Littleport.
Later came the Sutton branch, then one in Ely.

1900

Mr W.B. Redfarn writes: “Sir – Can I be of any service in assisting to save Wicken
Fen from the proposed drainage and cultivating scheme? I have a summer residence in
Waterbeach Fen and am therefore frequently in the immediate neighbourhood of this
charming and interesting bit of ancient fenland. I am sure there would be a deep
feeling of regret, among all classes, if this last bit of the English Fens were
“reclaimed”, and as the land would not be of much value even when under
cultivation, its present value cannot be very great”. The absolute safety of the
fen will never be assured until the whole of it has been acquired by the National
Trust, or by private persons determined to save it.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 1st May

1975

The Campaign for Real Ale has bought a disused pub, the Salisbury Hotel in
Cambridge for £22,000 – with the house next door thrown in. Secured at an auction
it is their fourth public house acquisition in the country. The auctioneer
described the price as very poor for such a commodious property. The licence was
never rescinded or transferred and so is available for an application to the city
licensing magistrates for renewal. At the same auction the King William IV pub at
Histon was taken off the market at £17,500

1950
Nylons! That magic word was used by the Cambridgeshire National Hairdressers
Federation to attract a good crowd to their “palais” night at the Guildhall.
Dancing was to the popular Len Tibbs’ Dance Orchestra. Nylons were not the only
things to be competed for. There were also prizes of whisky and free perms.

1925

A picturesque ceremony took place at the Central Girls’ School when the May Queen
was crowned. The school was tastefully decorated with bluebells, cowslips,
buttercups and violets. The girls, attired in white dresses, sang songs of spring.
Queen Gwendoline Marshall abdicated and the Mayor proclaimed Effie Few as the new
queen. After her enthronement the new Queen’s subjects paid homage by placing
flowers at her feet.

1900

For several years past the 1st of May has been observed at the Eden Street Higher
Grade School, Cambridge, by a ceremony which is at once attractive and imposing.
The scholars assemble in costumes suitable to the best traditions of the sunny
month and elect one of their number as Queen for the year. It is a happy survival
of May Day festivities, which it is hoped will be perpetuated. Queen Kate and her
retinue walked to the throne which was bright with a profusion of spring flowers.
The children voted for the new Queen and Ellie Fisher was elected. She was crowned
with a wreath of white flowers and saluted with a sisterly kiss by the dowager
Queen

Tuesday 2nd May

1975

Newmarket stable lads’ pay dispute spread to the racecourse, bringing chaos to the
first day of the Guineas meeting. Trouble started when 150 lads staged a sit-in on
the course and delayed the start of the race by 15 minutes. Further sit-ins during
the afternoon led to angry confrontations involving stable lads, jockeys, police,
course officials and racegoers. Willie Carson said he was “sore, especially around
the legs” where he had been hit with his own snatched riding crop.

1950

Sir – It is with dismay we hear the Cambridge council’s decision to defer the
provision of outside lavatories for four-bedroomed council houses. Most of these
have many occupants, in one case 14 in one house. Imagine the congestion and also
the wear and tear of stair carpets; also think of the mother with several small
children, up and down stairs, especially on wet days. Had the lavatory been built
outside in the first place there probably would have never been an application for
an extra lavatory. Our estate is a very pleasant place. What we have asked for is a
vitally necessary thing – S.A. Charge, Trumpington Estate Tenants Association

1925
May Day in Newmarket was bleak and cold, nevertheless the children kept up the old
custom of garland weaving and garlands of various shapes and sizes were carried
through the streets by young people with an eye to the largesse of passengers. At
Sussex Lodge the custom of giving prizes for the most artistically woven garlands
still prevails. The purple anemone, that locally grows only on the Devil’s Ditch,
furnished splashes of dark colour among the light yellow primulas, marsh marigolds
and buttercups.

1900
It is a matter of regret that the celebration of May Day has been so largely
discontinued. The Maypole has to a large extent disappeared. It was a praiseworthy
custom, and its associations were fragrant of rustic purity, but the Maypole has
gone the way of the spinning jenny. Children still gather wild flowers on May Day,
but the garlands that one sees have too much of the coloured paper and ribbon
brought from the draper in their composition.

Wednesday 3rd May

1975

Exactly a year ago, gardeners and farmers were gazing at parched spoil, cracked
earth and dry ditches. There was worry about the future of crops and the height of
the village duck pond. Now the situation has reversed with a vengeance. Much of
Cambridgeshire is totally water-logged – again there is concern about the future of
crops and the height of the village duck pond.

1950

Last night housewives left their husbands and children, and business girls their
shops and offices and hurried along to the Cambridge Guildhall. Once there, this
young army – 250 strong – donned green shorts and white blouses and went into
action to give a demonstration of vim and vigour that put all the seated onlookers
to shame. They were members of the Cambridge Women’s’ Physical Culture Club, run by
sisters Miss Margery and Miss Mary Vinsen, who were giving their first public
display for three years. All available tickets were sold 10 days ago.

1925
A Fordham smallholder was summoned for not sending his daughter to school. Mr
Savidge, attendance officer, said the excuse was illness. The father told him that
if he came again he would throw him in the drain. As the girl was now 14 and over
age an attendance order could not be made, so witness asked for a fine. The father
had three other children. He was fined 10/-

1900
For upwards of 50 years certain glebe land af All Saint’s, Newmarket, has been let
as allotments. The land is in the centre of a very thickly-populated part of the
town – Exning Road – and is known as Van Dieman’s Land. On the rare occasions when
a plot is to let there are a large number of applicants. Some plots have been in
the same family for as many as 50 years. Two years ago the rector sold a large
strip of the land to the Newmarket Gas Company and more recently the Electric Light
Company have acquired another strip. Now a new rector has informed the allotment
holders that as he has been offered a good price for the land by a Cambridge
builder, he was thinking of selling it in order to increase his living.
Thursday 4th May

1975

Hundreds of Cambridge motorists were late for work today as the second stage of the
city’s traffic experiment turned into an enormous snarl-up. Police described the
situation as chaotic. A police inspector said “Vast numbers of drivers are
completely unaware of the new experimental scheme. At 8.30 this morning there w as
a solid block of traffic from the Catholic church corner of Hills Road to Perne
Road island. Drivers are bewildered and completely at sea”. One councillor said
that while the first part of the experiment was a semi-hit, the extension was a
definite miss.

1950

The Secretary of State for Air has said it has now been decided that Mepal would
not be retained for RAF use and the airfield had been allocated for long-term
agricultural use. The Ely Rural Council had been requested to take over
responsibility for housing the Poles who lived in the hutted camp to the East of
the aerodrome.

1925
After nearly 700 years – except for a period during the Great War – services are
again to be held in the Leper’s Chapel at Barnwell. The chapel is the property of
the University by whom permission to use the building was readily given.
Negotiations have also had to be conducted with the owner of the field, so that a
right-of-way may be obtained form the road. The services will be regular and open
to the public. Members of Westcott House are now busy at the chapel removing some
of the ravages of time as the building remains just as it was left at the end of
the war

1900

The report that Wicken Fen was about to be drained does not appear to have been
well founded. The fen is held in plots by a considerable number of owners and there
can be no drainage unless all the owners give their consent. The South Level
Commissioners have the right to flood the fen at any time it should seem good to
them to do so. Thus they can prevent the land being turned into profitable
agricultural uses. The National Trust owners a strip about two acres in extent. In
order that it should be permanently secured against mere commercial enterprise it
must be acquired on behalf of all the public and it is clear the best thing would
be that it should pass into the hands of the National Trust

Friday 5th May

1975

Mrs Gladys Theobold, who has kept the White Swan public house, Stow-cum-Quy for 42
years served behind the bar for the last time last night. She has run the pub
almost single-handed since her husband died 16 years ago.

1950

A large white cob swan walked up Cambridge castle Hill and found himself for 15
minutes the focus of much interest from the police, the press, two cats and the
borough pindar. He first attracted attention waddling up the hill in the middle of
the road – much to the consternation of drivers and cyclists. Oblivious to the
hazards of walking in the middle of a Cambridge street, he took a look through the
Shire Hall’s entrance, but after a critical appraisal of the building he decided to
continue his journey. It was then shepherded into the county police station yard
where it stood and glared at everything that moved. Two inquisitive ginger cats
approached, sniffing at the strange interloper, but they did not stay long. Neck
arched, wings beating and hissing the big bird chased them away.

1925

Large crowds witnessed the Cambridge Labour and Co-operative Party’s May Day
demonstration on Parker’s Piece. It was addressed by E.V. Watering. He said the
cement workers had been on strike for eight weeks and not a single man had
retracted because they had received magnificent support from the Labour movement.
At a recent meeting of the Cambridge section of the Fascisti movement he had been
alluded to as a “breeder of strikes”. So far as the Shepreth dispute was concerned
he denied that statement. The strike was brought about by the directors of the East
Anglian Cement Company and only after every possible avenue leading to arbitration
had been wiped away that the men forced the issue by striking.

1900

A branch of the Capital and Counties Bank Ltd has been opened in Cambridge at 63
Sidney Street. The fact that it has been thought desirable to set down another
banking establishment is proof of the outside belief in the prosperity of the town.
The bank was established in 1834 and have numerous branches in various parts of the
country.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 8th May

1975

It seems to take a certain sort of woman to cope successfully with the life of
being the wife of a professional football player or manager. The wife of Cambridge
United’s new and highly successful manager fulfils the role perfectly. Ron
Atkinson’s life is football. Apart from cutting the grass once a week and taking
his car to the car wash he leaves to his wife all the responsibility for the day-
to-day running of the home and garden. From the time she takes Ron’s breakfast up
to him in bed with the papers – he reads them all avidly – life in their home
revolves around the one subject. When Ron does have a spare moment he reads
football books and magazines.

1950
The Co-operative Exhibition on Midsummer Common, Cambridge, is a housewife’s dream.
Here she will find most things from a nailbrush, (made on the spot) to a really
“super” piano priced at over £200. Most of the children’s interests centred on the
sweet stand, where there was an automatic machine wrapping confectionery. If only
the youngsters had had all the coupons they obviously longed for, I am sure they
would have quickly undone all the good work the machine was doing at such high
speed!

1925

Monday was an important day in the lives of Roman Catholic members of the
University. The blessing of the chapel at Fisher House took place and was followed
by a luncheon. Fisher House is on the site of the Black Swan, one of the oldest
inns in Cambridge, and the Dug Out. It has been turned into the residence for the
chaplain and the old billiard room at the back has been adapted to serve as a
chapel.

1900
Sir – I was charged that I did “drive a motor car at a speed of 20 miles an hour”.
The makers advertise that the car is capable of travelling at a rate of 16 mph
under favourable conditions, such as recently-charged accumulators, good spirit and
well-lubricated pistons. As the cells were almost run down it was impossible for
the car to go as fast as was alleged – F.W. Lawrence, Belmont Cycle & Motor Works,
Cambridge.

Tuesday 9th May

1975

Political extremists failed in their efforts to break up a mass pro-Common Market

rally in Cambridge guildhall last night while Mr Edward heath was speaking. But the
agitators who frequently called out their support for the National front movement
and waved banners and posters succeeded in halting the meeting twice – before
fighting and scuffling broke outand they were thrown out of the meeting by groups
of burly stewards. Repeatedly Mr Heath parried their tirade until the noise from
agitators and the counter booing and shouting of hundreds of other people in the
hall forced him to stop speaking

1950

The proposed addition of 18 to the staff of the County Architects’ department at a

maximum cost in salaries of £11,906 was agreed. Councillor Dunkin said that in
times when the council was trying to economise, it was a very large addition to one
department -–one which about doubled its salary costs – and the matter needed very
careful consideration.

1925

The funeral took place of Mr William West of the Art Department of the University
Press. He was a versatile artist of considerable ability. His sketches of old
Cambridge are numerous and beautiful & some may be seen in the book entitled
“Cambridge re-visited” by Mr Arthur Gray, while many others have never been
published. During the war he was much in request at the First Eastern General
Hospital where he made valuable records of unusual aspects of certain diseases

1900

A most disastrous fire broke out in the centre of Soham which has reduced to a mass
of blackened ruins an ancient hostelry, with its contents and outbuildings, a
tradesman’s shop and houses, & rendered homeless a dozen persons. The old hostelry
“The Fountain”, with its rooms panelled with oak, and interesting alike to the
antiquarian and lover of old-style architecture, stood at the corner of Churchgate
Street. It was built mostly of timber and had plaster walls, with lath and reeds
between. The firemen succeeded in preventing the fire involving a tall building,
used in years gone by as a steelyard, hay and straw weighing apparatus.

Wednesday 10th May

1975
The influx of army children to Hatton Park county primary school, Longstanton, is
causing problems. A report showed there were now 144 army children, 17 RAF and 106
village children in the school. With the arrival of the newcomers 40-50% of each
class was considered in need of remedial teaching.

1950

Two Cambridge railwaymen, driver John Collingwood and guard Alfred Palmer have been
awarded the “Daily Herald” Order of Industrial Heroism. The rescue which won them
the “Workers VC” was made just a year ago at the Air Ministry’s private siding at
Lord’s Bridge. Coming round a blind corner a goods train collided with a RAF motor
lorry loaded with bombs. The driver was knocked unconscious and trapped in his cab;
the petrol tank was smashed and petrol splashed onto the bonnet which was smoking
fiercely. Several bombs fell off the lorry and rolled towards a pool of petrol.
Despite the danger the railwaymen ran to the lorry, released the driver, lifted him
out of the cab and carried him to safety.

1925

Great success marked the Jubilee celebrations at Ely of the founding of the Girls
Friendly Society, over 1,400 members and associates from all parts of the dioceses
attending a festival and thanksgiving service in the cathedral. A picturesque scene
was presented when the procession with their magnificent banners and emblems passed
from the Palace Green to the cathedral. The catering of Mr Vernon Cross of Ye Olde
Tea Rooms, Forehill, was excellent.

1900

An accident occurred at the Norwich crossing, at Queen Adelaide, Ely. A cattle

train proceeding at a fair rate dashed into one of the gates which had remained
closed across the line. The crash was terrific and caused much alarm to those who
heard it. Portions of the gate were flung to a distance of about 50 yards. One
portion damaged the spouting of the gatekeeper’s house, and after making a hole in
the roof, fell into the garden at the back. The gate was a perfect wreck, the iron
bars being twisted and broken. The gatekeeper was temporarily engaged at the spot
in place of the usual man who was away on holiday. He felt sure the way was clear
for the train and it is at present very difficult to account for the gate being
shut across the line.

Thursday 11th May

1975

Vigilante patrols have been formed in some bed-sit areas of Cambridge by

householders anxious to protect single girls from the Cambridge rapist –but the
groups are not welcomed by the police. The Cambridge MP, David Lane, dropped in
unannounced at police headquarters to offer his support and encouragement to
detectives hunting the city rapist.

1950
Never has there been a time when so much was done for the health of the nation’s
children. The latest development in the drive towards positive health is a scheme
to X-ray the children in the Cambridge secondary schools. The X-rays are carried
out by the Mass Radiography Unit and some 3,600 children will be examined. At the
moment, only children of 11 upwards are to be X-rayed, due to the fact that their
school-leaving is more imminent than the younger ones

1925

Alleged indecent attacks on young girls in Ely have caused considerable alarm.
Twice police were within an ace of capturing the individual but the man escaped.
They finally accomplished the arrest by a clever ruse. Mrs Hillier, wife of a
police constable went out into the darkness on her mission to save young girls from
being molested. Without any warning a man attacked her, a struggle ensued and she
blew a police whistle, pursuing him as he tried to escape down the street. Police
sergeant Newell was in the near vicinity and the man was caught. Mrs Hillier was
congratulated upon her plucky act in the interests of justice.

1900

Sir – As an old user of the East Road Reading Room, Cambridge may I complain of the
insufficient supply of newspapers there. Morning newspapers are entirely absent,
excepting one a day old. I received a severe shock some time ago when I founded
posted up a copy of the “Times” newspaper, but found it was an old copy. In the old
days we were allowed the “Times”. The reading matter is so seriously curtailed as
to prevent one from arriving at a consensus of opinion; this tending to keep in
darkness a not highly favoured part of the town – A. Clark, Walnut Tree Lane

Friday 12th May

1975
The Varsity restaurant in St Andrew’s Street, Cambridge, is not the place to go if
you are fussy in demanding smart décor. But it does offer good wholesome food at
extremely low prices. We saw one elderly gentleman complaining that his carafe of
wine (£1.10 a half litre) was too cold. The obliging waiter held it in front of an
electric convector fire to bring it to a more acceptable temperature. It was little
more than a gesture, as the fire was not plugged in. We ate a three-course meal,
with wine, and the bill for two was £3.25

1950

When Stetchworth Dairies roundsman, Mr John Shorter, came out of a house in Downing
Street he found his milk van had vanished. The horse had taken fright at noise from
building operations and bolted at full gallop. Despite heavy traffic the horse
swerved round the corner into St Andrew’s Street, missed five motor cars and a bus
by inches, and continued at a gallop towards Regent Street. Mr John Higgins cycled
after the runaway, seized the bridles and gradually gained control over the horse
and forced it to a standstill beyond the University Arms Hotel. Mr Higgins, not a
young man, was handicapped by a heavy box of plants on the front of his cycle and
his prompt and plucky action exhausted him

1925

The opening of the new Guildhall organ marks a fresh era in the history of
Cambridge music. The old organ had no virtues but many vices. The pitch was wrong,
much of the tone was bad, the action quite defective and the general scheme and
plan quite unsuited for the purpose and room for which it was designed. Erected in
1882 by voluntary subscription it had become almost unplayable. Both the heating
and ventilation of the room were bad and gross variations in the temperature had
the effect of putting the organ out of use with an orchestra and even of rendering
certain stops unusable with others.

1900

Messrs Gain, Moyes & Wisbey offered for sale by auction two acres of land at Wicken
fen described as the only virgin fenland in England. It was valuable in consequence
of the rare insects and birds and should receive the attention of any ornithologist
or naturalist. The bidding reached £17.10s. at which price Mr George Verrall,
president of the Entomological Society became its owner. The next lot, a similar
piece in St Edmund’s Fen was purchased for the Hon. Nathaniel Rothschild. The
freehold licensed premises, the White Hart beerhouse, situate on heath Road,
Swaffham Prior was withdrawn.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 15th May

1975

At the County Council meeting presentations will be made to mark the retirement of
Col Geoffrey Hurrell as Lord Lieutenant and to Lord Hemingford as a Lieutenant of
Cambridgeshire. These formal and social functions are likely to be the only bright
spots at a meeting otherwise heavily laden with prospects of financial gloom. Dire
warnings will be given of the possibility of the council’s money running out before
the end of the financial year. Jobs of some employees may be at stake if they press
for too large a salary increase – because there is just no money available

1950

A recent weekend exercise of the 250th Field Squadron, Royal Engineers, included
the dismantling and returning to store of a Bailey bridge which had been erected
across the counter-wash drain near Mepal. The phenomenal speed with which the job
was carried out is accounted for by the fact that the squadron has a canteen, that
in the canteen there is a television set and that on this particular Saturday a
very important event in the sporting calendar was being televised.

1925

Revised plans for the proposed open-air school in Cambridge show that instead of
four classrooms there should be three and one large rest shelter which when not in
use for rest could be used as a classroom. There would be a shed for manual
instruction for boys and a small building for instruction in cookery and laundry,
of efficient size for about a dozen mentally defective girls. The ends of the
classrooms would be fitted with patent sliding and folding windows so that the
whole extent of the ends can be opened or closed at will.

1900

Harriet Few of Willingham was fined 5s. for driving a cart without a light at
Longstanton. Defendant: I shall not pay; I’ll go to gaol. I think it is rather hard
for a woman to go to work all the week and be stopped by a policeman simply because
she had no light attached to her cart. I am not willing to pay this money. I do not
consider that I was doing wrong, and I will go to gaol. How long will it be?

Tuesday 16th May

1975
Landbeach comedian Jack Harding yesterday gagged his way to an expenses-paid
holiday for two in the Mediterranean. For 66-year-old Jack won first prize in the
senior citizens’ talent competition at Leicester. Jack, a part-time retired mobile
hardware and oil merchant, was supported by 200 well-wishers from Golden Age clubs
in Cambridge.

1950

St Andrew’s church Cherry Hinton, is yet another victim of the ravages of the
death-watch beetle. The main beams supporting the roof have been attacked heavily,
and may need to be replaced completely. The framework holding the bells is unsafe,
and other parts of the church fabric require repair. Very little of any salvaged
timber may be fit for further use. The cost is estimated at about £1,500

1925

The minds of motoring undergraduates in the University are greatly perturbed over
certain proposals which have been made for the total prohibition of motor vehicles
by junior members. The proctors state that “a few undergraduates use their cars and
motor cycles after dark to drive undesirable young women into the country and they
consider it their duty to prevent them”. It is ridiculous for them to walk the
streets after dark chasing pedestrian undergraduates for having no caps whilst
boisterous merry-markers rush by in cars.

1900

The extensive Portland Cement Works which are being erected in the neighbourhood of
Coldham’s Lane and Mill Road are now assuming enormous dimensions; in fact the
buildings already completed are ample evidence that one of the largest and most
modern cement works in England will be situated near Cambridge. The celebrated gun-
makers, Messrs Krupp of Essen, are supplying most of the extensive machinery for
the company and a cement will be manufactured that conforms to the specifications
of the Board of Admiralty and the London County Council

Wednesday 17th May

1975

Fourteen Cambridge student bodyguards were out in the city last night looking after
single girls who fear the rapist may strike again. The Eden Street based
Townswomen’s Liberation Group has arranged for a self-defence demonstration. It
will be for the benefit of anyone fearing assault. The Cambridge Evening News has
offered a reward of £1,000 for information leading to the rapist’s arrest and
conviction.

1950

A proposal to forma local history committee for Cambridgeshire was approved at a

meeting at the Community Council. Many people throughout the country had
information which would be more valuable if it were combined. Such things as
keeping people in touch formed a great part of the committee’s duties. The Rev Prof
C.E. Raven, Master of Christ’s college was in the chair

1925
The Ouse drainage question is still a burning topic in Soham. Two bailiffs visited
a farm at Soham fen to demand rates amounting to £29. Apparently the money was not
forthcoming for one of the bailiffs went over to a barn and taking down a halter
which was hanging just over the top of a mangold cutter said, “I seize this”. A
tall, well-built young lady of 16 also seized hold of the halter, and a struggle
ensued during which she struck her arm against the mangold cutter, bruising it.
Another young lady then came on the scene and struck the bailiff on the nose,
causing blood to flow. Farmers think the Ouse Drainage Board was forced on them by
the Government and that Soham is being asked to pay for works which benefit other
towns who were not asked to contribute.

1900

The King of Sweden and Norway will doubtless carry away with him many pleasant
reminiscences of his visit to Cambridge. The object of King Oscar’s visit, as the
guest of the Master of Trinity, was quite a private one. The University however
were unwilling that the occasion should be allowed to pass without doing honour to
their illustrious visitor, and it was resolved to confer upon the King the honorary
degree of Doctor in Law. A large crowd gathered around the Senate House. The
galleries were thronged with undergraduates and the floor of the house given up to
ladies whose summer dresses contributed materially to the brightness of the scene.

Thursday 18th May

1975

The Mayor of Cambridge, Coun. Jack Warren, is under attack by the Communist Party
because he gave a sherry party for Mr Edward Heath when he spoke at a rally in the
city supporting the Common Market. The Mayor, who makes no secret of his support
for the Market, although many of his Labour Party colleagues are strongly opposed
to it – gave a small sherry party in his official parlour for a number of leading
members of the Cambridge In Europe campaign.

1950

During the Nazi “blitz” of 1940, members of the Roman Catholic Order The Sisters of
Hope were driven from their home in London and came to settle in Bateman Street,
Cambridge. In 1944 they moved to Brooklands Avenue. “So good has come out of
evil”, said the Bishop of Northampton as he laid the foundation stone of the new
nursing home at Hope House. This large extension to the present premises will be
completed in 12 months time and will increase the capacity of the nursing home from
its present nine patients to 30.

1925

The Rector of Hardwick was fined 10s. for assaulting a farm labourer. It was the
outcome of considerable friction between the Rector and his parishioners over the
right-of-way of a roadway leading through the Rectory grounds to a farm. The Rector
claims he had the right to turn back people whom he considers objectionable,
whereas villagers declare the road to be public for everybody’s use. Complainant
said that when he was part way down the road the rector had rushed out of his
garden with a four-tined fork and said: “You are not going this way”. He was pushed
into the hedge and the tines of the fork probed through his coat. The rector said
he thought the man was going to make one of his flying rushes and raised the tool
to defend himself.
1900

Arrangements will be made to celebrate the relief of Mafeking by a bonfire on

Midsummer Common, Cambridge. Under the supervision of the Borough Surveyor
materials for a huge bonfire are being conveyed and the gradual growth of the pile
of builders’ materials, boxes and other fuel from local tradesmen is being watched
with a great deal of interest. If the debris continues to increase in bulk both
town and gown are likely to have a right merry time.

Friday 19th May

1975

Towns and villages were mopping up after a downpour which led to road chaos,
flooding and burst river banks. Some of the most serious flooding was in the St
Neots, Eynesbury and Eaton Socon areas after the continuous rain swelled
tributaries of the Ouse until they burst their banks. It was the second time in
less than six months that these areas had been hit by floods.

1950

A silver chalice dating back to 1569 has been stolen from St Mary’s church,
Huntingdon. It was the oldest piece of silver in the church and is valued at more
than £300. It was last used at the communion service on Sunday, after which it was
returned to the safe. The safe had been opened with the key which has been kept in
the church for the past 12 years.

1925

The County Education Committee recommended the purchase of “Beechurst” for the
purpose of carrying on a central school at Soham to provide an education of a
secondary type for boys of the ages of 10 to 16 years. They also recommend the
closing of Soham Grammar School and the disposal of the property. People who were
not attached to Soham Grammar School for sentimental reasons would in time become
just as proud of “Beechurst”. Coun. Beales said that if they could give their boys
a good rural education and they could leave and help their parents, that was what
people would appreciate.

1900

The evil-disposed person who has been paying nocturnal visits to the railway
stations in the neighbourhood of Cambridge with the ostensible object of plundering
the booking office, has scarcely been adequately remunerated for his trouble. He
was first heard of at Histon station. In the morning the outer and inner doors of
the office were still locked, and the windows were intact. The booking clerk was
surprised, therefore, to find that the sum of £1.0.4d, the whole of the cash
available, was missing. There was nothing to show in what way the thief had entered
the premises. Stations at Quy, Bottisham and Barnwell were also visited and
entered.

LOOKING BACK, by Mike Petty

Monday 15th May

1975

At the County Council meeting presentations will be made to mark the retirement of
Col Geoffrey Hurrell as Lord Lieutenant and to Lord Hemingford as a Lieutenant of
Cambridgeshire. These formal and social functions are likely to be the only bright
spots at a meeting otherwise heavily laden with prospects of financial gloom. Dire
warnings will be given of the possibility of the council’s money running out before
the end of the financial year. Jobs of some employees may be at stake if they press
for too large a salary increase – because there is just no money available

1950

A recent weekend exercise of the 250th Field Squadron, Royal Engineers, included
the dismantling and returning to store of a Bailey bridge which had been erected
across the counter-wash drain near Mepal. The phenomenal speed with which the job
was carried out is accounted for by the fact that the squadron has a canteen, that
in the canteen there is a television set and that on this particular Saturday a
very important event in the sporting calendar was being televised.

1925

Revised plans for the proposed open-air school in Cambridge show that instead of
four classrooms there should be three and one large rest shelter which when not in
use for rest could be used as a classroom. There would be a shed for manual
instruction for boys and a small building for instruction in cookery and laundry,
of efficient size for about a dozen mentally defective girls. The ends of the
classrooms would be fitted with patent sliding and folding windows so that the
whole extent of the ends can be opened or closed at will.

1900

Harriet Few of Willingham was fined 5s. for driving a cart without a light at
Longstanton. Defendant: I shall not pay; I’ll go to gaol. I think it is rather hard
for a woman to go to work all the week and be stopped by a policeman simply because
she had no light attached to her cart. I am not willing to pay this money. I do not
consider that I was doing wrong, and I will go to gaol. How long will it be?

Tuesday 16th May

1975
Landbeach comedian Jack Harding yesterday gagged his way to an expenses-paid
holiday for two in the Mediterranean. For 66-year-old Jack won first prize in the
senior citizens’ talent competition at Leicester. Jack, a part-time retired mobile
hardware and oil merchant, was supported by 200 well-wishers from Golden Age clubs
in Cambridge.

1950

St Andrew’s church Cherry Hinton, is yet another victim of the ravages of the
death-watch beetle. The main beams supporting the roof have been attacked heavily,
and may need to be replaced completely. The framework holding the bells is unsafe,
and other parts of the church fabric require repair. Very little of any salvaged
timber may be fit for further use. The cost is estimated at about £1,500

1925
The minds of motoring undergraduates in the University are greatly perturbed over
certain proposals which have been made for the total prohibition of motor vehicles
by junior members. The proctors state that “a few undergraduates use their cars and
motor cycles after dark to drive undesirable young women into the country and they
consider it their duty to prevent them”. It is ridiculous for them to walk the
streets after dark chasing pedestrian undergraduates for having no caps whilst
boisterous merry-markers rush by in cars.

1900

The extensive Portland Cement Works which are being erected in the neighbourhood of
Coldham’s Lane and Mill Road are now assuming enormous dimensions; in fact the
buildings already completed are ample evidence that one of the largest and most
modern cement works in England will be situated near Cambridge. The celebrated gun-
makers, Messrs Krupp of Essen, are supplying most of the extensive machinery for
the company and a cement will be manufactured that conforms to the specifications
of the Board of Admiralty and the London County Council

Wednesday 17th May

1975

Fourteen Cambridge student bodyguards were out in the city last night looking after
single girls who fear the rapist may strike again. The Eden Street based
Townswomen’s Liberation Group has arranged for a self-defence demonstration. It
will be for the benefit of anyone fearing assault. The Cambridge Evening News has
offered a reward of £1,000 for information leading to the rapist’s arrest and
conviction.

1950

A proposal to forma local history committee for Cambridgeshire was approved at a

meeting at the Community Council. Many people throughout the country had
information which would be more valuable if it were combined. Such things as
keeping people in touch formed a great part of the committee’s duties. The Rev Prof
C.E. Raven, Master of Christ’s college was in the chair

1925

The Ouse drainage question is still a burning topic in Soham. Two bailiffs visited
a farm at Soham fen to demand rates amounting to £29. Apparently the money was not
forthcoming for one of the bailiffs went over to a barn and taking down a halter
which was hanging just over the top of a mangold cutter said, “I seize this”. A
tall, well-built young lady of 16 also seized hold of the halter, and a struggle
ensued during which she struck her arm against the mangold cutter, bruising it.
Another young lady then came on the scene and struck the bailiff on the nose,
causing blood to flow. Farmers think the Ouse Drainage Board was forced on them by
the Government and that Soham is being asked to pay for works which benefit other
towns who were not asked to contribute.

1900

The King of Sweden and Norway will doubtless carry away with him many pleasant
reminiscences of his visit to Cambridge. The object of King Oscar’s visit, as the
guest of the Master of Trinity, was quite a private one. The University however
were unwilling that the occasion should be allowed to pass without doing honour to
their illustrious visitor, and it was resolved to confer upon the King the honorary
degree of Doctor in Law. A large crowd gathered around the Senate House. The
galleries were thronged with undergraduates and the floor of the house given up to
ladies whose summer dresses contributed materially to the brightness of the scene.

Thursday 18th May

1975

The Mayor of Cambridge, Coun. Jack Warren, is under attack by the Communist Party
because he gave a sherry party for Mr Edward Heath when he spoke at a rally in the
city supporting the Common Market. The Mayor, who makes no secret of his support
for the Market, although many of his Labour Party colleagues are strongly opposed
to it – gave a small sherry party in his official parlour for a number of leading
members of the Cambridge In Europe campaign.

1950

During the Nazi “blitz” of 1940, members of the Roman Catholic Order The Sisters of
Hope were driven from their home in London and came to settle in Bateman Street,
Cambridge. In 1944 they moved to Brooklands Avenue. “So good has come out of
evil”, said the Bishop of Northampton as he laid the foundation stone of the new
nursing home at Hope House. This large extension to the present premises will be
completed in 12 months time and will increase the capacity of the nursing home from
its present nine patients to 30.

1925

The Rector of Hardwick was fined 10s. for assaulting a farm labourer. It was the
outcome of considerable friction between the Rector and his parishioners over the
right-of-way of a roadway leading through the Rectory grounds to a farm. The Rector
claims he had the right to turn back people whom he considers objectionable,
whereas villagers declare the road to be public for everybody’s use. Complainant
said that when he was part way down the road the rector had rushed out of his
garden with a four-tined fork and said: “You are not going this way”. He was pushed
into the hedge and the tines of the fork probed through his coat. The rector said
he thought the man was going to make one of his flying rushes and raised the tool
to defend himself.

1900

Arrangements will be made to celebrate the relief of Mafeking by a bonfire on

Midsummer Common, Cambridge. Under the supervision of the Borough Surveyor
materials for a huge bonfire are being conveyed and the gradual growth of the pile
of builders’ materials, boxes and other fuel from local tradesmen is being watched
with a great deal of interest. If the debris continues to increase in bulk both
town and gown are likely to have a right merry time.

Friday 19th May

1975

Towns and villages were mopping up after a downpour which led to road chaos,
flooding and burst river banks. Some of the most serious flooding was in the St
Neots, Eynesbury and Eaton Socon areas after the continuous rain swelled
tributaries of the Ouse until they burst their banks. It was the second time in
less than six months that these areas had been hit by floods.

1950

A silver chalice dating back to 1569 has been stolen from St Mary’s church,
Huntingdon. It was the oldest piece of silver in the church and is valued at more
than £300. It was last used at the communion service on Sunday, after which it was
returned to the safe. The safe had been opened with the key which has been kept in
the church for the past 12 years.

1925

The County Education Committee recommended the purchase of “Beechurst” for the
purpose of carrying on a central school at Soham to provide an education of a
secondary type for boys of the ages of 10 to 16 years. They also recommend the
closing of Soham Grammar School and the disposal of the property. People who were
not attached to Soham Grammar School for sentimental reasons would in time become
just as proud of “Beechurst”. Coun. Beales said that if they could give their boys
a good rural education and they could leave and help their parents, that was what
people would appreciate.

1900

The evil-disposed person who has been paying nocturnal visits to the railway
stations in the neighbourhood of Cambridge with the ostensible object of plundering
the booking office, has scarcely been adequately remunerated for his trouble. He
was first heard of at Histon station. In the morning the outer and inner doors of
the office were still locked, and the windows were intact. The booking clerk was
surprised, therefore, to find that the sum of £1.0.4d, the whole of the cash
available, was missing. There was nothing to show in what way the thief had entered
the premises. Stations at Quy, Bottisham and Barnwell were also visited and
entered.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 22nd May

1975

Twelve traders at the Marcade in East Road, Cambridge, were each fined up to £10
for serving customers on a Sunday. The charges arose from an undisclosed complaint
on the Sunday before Christmas and a visit to the covered market by a public health
officer and three inspectors. One of the traders said he carried out a survey on
the same Sunday and discovered 17 other shops open and selling goods contravening
the law. They were giving a public service on the run-up to Christmas and were
surprised other shops doing the same thing were not prosecuted.

1950

The whirlwind which swept through Cambridgeshire last night caused extensive damage
at Sutton. A double-decker Eastern Counties bus was lifted up by the miniature
tornado and thrown down onto its side shaking up the passengers and injuring at
least two. The bus was just leaving Sutton on its way to March, and was travelling
along Ely Road carrying 14 passengers. The driver was uninjured but the conductor
was knocked unconscious. Breakdown crews form Cambridge and Peterborough tried to
move the bus off the road. Traffic was diverted through Mepal airdrome.

1925

Cambridge Poor Law Guardians considered installing wireless apparatus at the

Institution. Mrs Keynes said some members were not entirely satisfied that it would
be a very great boon to the inmates, partly because of the nature of the
entertainment and partly because the best part of the performance usually came on
after their inmates had gone to bed. The chairman handed round copies of the “Radio
Times” to enable members to see the types of programmes given. Messrs Allin’s
estimate for a six-valve set with five loud speakers was £65. Chesterton
Institution had installed three loud speakers and they were appreciated.

1900

Cambridge has suffered intense anxiety regarding the welfare of Baden-Powell and
his gallant men who for the past seven months have been locked up in Mafeking. It
was about ten when the glad news was first made known regarding the relief and
people began to assemble in crowds to await with baited breath the confirmation.
The some half-doze individuals emerged from Sidney Street and their lusty cheers
led many to the conclusion that the garrison had really been relieved. As the
little crowd moved along the streets the cheering increased, and people seemed
intoxicated with excitement.

Tuesday 23rd May

1975
A row between Huntingdon district council and the village hall committee at
Abbotsley, near St Neots, has led to the Common Market Referendum in the village
being held in the back room of a High Street house. The hall management committee
was demanding £1.50 per hour for the 15-hour voting period – and that was just too
much for the district council. The hall treasurer said the council wanted to pay £5
for the whole day but if the village folk can’t get it for less no one else should.

1950

The theatre of the special services USAAF, Lakenheath, was packed with American
personnel and villagers from the surrounding districts when the Dorothy Lamour show
was held. Dressed in the famous sarong “Dottie” as she signs autographs, filled in
her appearance by singing songs from her films. Len Tibbs and his band from
Cambridge supported the programme with musical arrangements. After the show Miss
Lamour autographed the drum and posed for photographs.

1925

Two shopkeepers occupying adjacent premises in East Road, Cambridge, appeared

before magistrates. Frederick Peak, a wholesale confectioner said a big Smith’s van
pulled up outside his premises to deliver some tins of potato chips. His neighbour
came and complained about the van standing near her door. He was carrying ten tins
of chips, stacked as high as his chin, when she put up both her hands and
deliberately knocked them from his arms. Two lids came off and the contents were
spilled. On another occasion she threw soapy water on him from an upstairs window.

1900

Newmarket was overjoyed to hear the good news of the relief of Mafeking and soon
Union Jacks were flying from nearly every house and shop. At St Ives the news was
heralded by the explosion of detonators and the streets were at once decorated. At
Ely a crowd of enthusiasts marched round the streets carrying flags and at Saffron
Walden bunting was displayed in all directions. There was a good congregation at
Over church service consisting chiefly of men who came direct from their work.

Wednesday 24th May

1975

For the first time since it was produced almost 20 years ago a prize-winning
history of Cherry Hinton is to be available for reference at libraries. The
contents were compiled by the Women’s Institute in 1958. But the book, hand-written
and with water-colour sketches, was too fragile to be easily available. But now
staff from the Cambridgeshire Collection have made three complete copies of the
book. One will be at Cherry Hinton library.

1950

Radio will be used by the police on traffic control duties at the County Show at
Doddington. A wireless station is being installed on the showground and, in
addition to wireless cars, the police will be equipped with “walkie-talkie”
apparatus.

1925

Stapleford parishioners are working hard to raise sufficient funds to build a

vestry for their church. For two years various efforts have been devoted to raising
the required £450. Plans have been drawn up and it is hoped to commence building
within a year or so.

1900

In Cambridge every precaution had been taken to keep the great bonfire on Midsummer
Common intact until the news of the relief of Mafeking had been confirmed, and
special constables barricaded the enclosure within which the wood and other
material had been stacked. Subsequently another posse of police constables arrived
and the pile was made practically secure. There were attempts to fire it, however.
Matches, vestas in particular, were in great demand and there seemed a
determination on the part of many to have a blaze. One young man procured a box of
matches, lighted them and then threw the burning mass on the brushwood. The police
promptly scaled the fence and extinguished the flames. Tomorrow night we will light
the biggest bonfire that has ever been seen in Cambridge.

Thursday 25th May

1975

Cambridge romped home to win “It’s a Knockout” in front of a crowd of 15,000 at

Cambridge City Football Club. In a close-fought contest the home team balanced,
tugged, splashed, climbed and tumbled its way through a variety of crazy games. The
score was Cambridge 22, Peterborough 20 and Oxford 18. This sees them through to an
International round of “Jeux sans Frontieres” where Cambridge will be the only
British team against contestants from six other countries.
1950

Mr Sidney Inskip Ladds has left his written, drawing and printed material in
folders marked “S” together with photographs, prints and negatives to the Norris
Library, St Ives. All similar material marked “H” and a series of Huntingdonshire
maps and watercolour pictures of local churches have been presented to Huntingdon
county council to be preserved by them in the Reference Library there.

1925

The Cambridge University Senate discussed the latest proposal that undergraduates
shall not have motor vehicles during their first year of residence. It would cut
down the number of vehicles in the busy narrow streets and give first year men a
better chance of settling down to college life. It would prevent them wasting so
much time rushing about, and they would form other habits, rather than motor-cycle
habits. Opponents say the scheme is impracticable and against the ideas of modern
development

1900

Cambridge has celebrated the relief of Mafeking and it has done it right nobly.
There was no recurrence of the riotous scene witnessed on the occasion of the
relief of Ladysmith, no destruction of property. This was due to one thing, the
discretion shown by the powers that be in organising a bonfire on Midsummer Common.
People poured in in thousands from the country in anticipation of the festivities
and so great was the influx that some streets were rendered well night impassable.
Still, the crowds were orderly and the police had no difficulty regulating the
traffic.

Friday 26th May

1975

Emergency action was taken at the weekend to cut off sections of Ashwell parish
church and churchyard from public access because of the dangerous state of the 600-
year-old church tower. An architect has reported that parts of the buttress could
collapse at any time. Inside the church the altar, pews and other furniture have
been moved away from the danger area. The organ will no longer be used for services
and there is also a ban on bell-ringing. Emergency repairs would cost about £10,000
but the total bill for a major restoration would amount to £60,000

1950

Motorists have been queuing up at Cambridge garages to fill up for Whitsun joy-
rides. As a result of petrol derationing local garages have put extra men on the
pumps to cope with the demand and early this afternoon there was no sign of a
slackening off. Marshalls reported increased sale of petrol. Three men manned the
pumps instead of the usual one and happy motorists told them to “Fill her up till
she flows over!” The firm’s Jesus Lane depot has well over 5,000 gallons in stock
and can get more if it is needed.

1925

Shortly after midnight a small band of cyclists sallied forth from against the
Senate House en route to join several thousand of fellow-wheelmen at Meriden in a
memorial service to cyclists killed in the war. A cyclist from Royston joined the
party at the Caxton Gibbet cross-roads where a halt was called to don capes. On the
sharp bend approaching St Neots a two-seater car, with lamps alight, was embedded
head-on in the hedge and a near-by telegraph pole leaning at an alarming rate.
Nothing was to be seen of the occupants and the cyclists carried on to Bedford,
which was reached about 3 am

1900

Sounds of cheering in the streets, long-drawn calls of the “buzzers” at the brick
works, shrieks of steam engines, ringing of bells, announced in Gamlingay the
relief of Mafeking. Shops and houses showed bunting, several flags were as large as
tablecloths, notably those at Mr Jiggle’s premises, the double Jack at Fowler Bros
and the flag of the British Naval Reserve at Mr J. Gears’

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 29 May

1975

Mr Bernard Smith is proud of the way he keeps Burwell’s Gardiner Memorial Hall
spotless. He polishes the floor seven hours a week. He is also proud of the way he
keeps the cemetery tidy. He mows the grass until it is as smooth as a bowling
green. But Mr Smith, who receives £35 a week says hooligans tearing holes the in
tennis court fence, “breaking everything” and leaving the area “in a hell of a
mess” makes looking after the 9½ acres of the recreation ground a thankless task

1950

St Ives council considered a suggestion that all tenants of the Green Leys estate
houses be informed that lino must not be laid on ground floors. In some houses
there was 18 inches of water under the floorboards. Ald Bryant said: “The council
were pushed into buying the land. It wasn’t good land and we’ve done the best to
drain it, but we shall always be troubled with damp in the heavy rains”. Where
linoleum was laid dampness could not get away and dry rot ensued. This would
probably lead to considerable expense and probably result in concrete floors having
to be laid.

1925

Alimond Denson, of Broad Street, Ely, applied for possession of a cottage next door
to his house. He lived with his mother, father and two sisters who carried out a
tailoring business at the same premises. There was one large room downstairs. One
part was used for his photography work where the public went to have photos taken,
while the other was used as a fitting room by his sisters. Upstairs there were two
rooms and a box room. There was only one old lady living in the cottage that
contained eight rooms. She had not paid the rent. They had offered her a house down
an alley and said she could serve cups of tea over the fence to the footballers.

1900

Sir – I venture to utter a word of protest against the management of the Mafeking
rejoicings. I say nothing about the undergraduate but the manner in which children
of 15 and under were tacitly allowed to indulge in drunkenness and other unnameable
debauchery ought to bring a blush to every Cambridge citizen. Could not some of the
men who were strutting in and out of the Corn Exchange with white ribbons on their
arms have been stationed on Midsummer Common to send the incapable children home –
C.R. Crookes, Cambridge Boys’ Brigade
Tuesday 30th May

1975

Cambridge’s largest all-male college, Trinity is to admit women. Graduate women

students will be admitted from October 1976 and undergraduate women from October
1978. The college decision puts Trinity fourth in line amongst previous all-male
colleges who are now planning to open their door both to women dons and students.
In 1976 Sidney Sussex and Selwyn colleges will become co-educational, followed in
1977 by Trinity Hall

1950

There was a scene of peace and splendour at the American cemetery on Madingley Hill
at a memorial service. It was the seventh anniversary of the founding of the
cemetery and the first public ceremony since 1947, when the cemetery was closed for
alterations, and re-interments. Reopened to the public in July last year it then
passed form the control of the army to the American Battle Monuments Commission.

1925

Cambridge Guardians were told that their forefathers built the present infirmary as
a test house for the able-bodied, but now it was becoming half hospital and half
almshouse, and so they needed better accommodation now than they did. Mr Sells said
he had every sympathy with the poor but they had to recognise that their inmates
were better housed, better fed and better clothed than 75 per cent of the poor of
Cambridge. If expenditure was embarked upon it would have to be found by the
working men of Cambridge. The new building was not urgently needed.

1900

The City of Ely played a worthy part in the general celebrations at the relief of
Mafeking. The citizens were early astir and as the day wore on the main
thoroughfares presented a gay and animated scene. Between eight and nine o’clock
shops began to close, whilst everybody thronged in the direction of Market Hill. A
procession was formed including Vernon Cross in his van disguised as Kruger,
several members of the Ely Constitutional Club cyclists and members of the Ely
Volunteers. It travelled via Broad Street to the Market Hill where a large bonfire
was lighted. The rejoicings lasted until midnight.

Wednesday 31st May

1975

With the reorganisation of secondary school education 16-year olds must now look
round at all the subject choices and courses at the different Sixth Form Centres.
CCAT is far and away the largest A-level centre in the area. Its total of over 500
full-time A-level students considerably exceeds that of the Hills Road and Long
Road Sixth Form Colleges together.

1950

The Regional Petroleum Officer has thanked motorists in the eastern region for the
way they “bore with us manfully in our work”. He said that none of them knew the
end was coming. “At 11 o’clock we were working full stretch; a few minutes later we
learned that rationing was ended”. The “top secret” of its abolition was
extraordinarily well kept. In the registry shelves were packed tight with 300,000
files that have accumulated in ten years of rationing. Some 180,000 motorists were
still in receipt of petrol when rationing ended. The 140 temporary staff will be
seeking new employment and the 40 permanent civil servants posted to other
departments.

1925

“I promised the little girl at work that I would bring her some flowers” was the
excuse which a 14-year-old errand boy offered to magistrates for wilfully damaging
a laburnum tree at Victoria Great Jubilee Memorial Pleasure ground, Chesterton
Road. The magistrates took a lenient view of the offence and fined him 3s.

1900

A Harston mother told the inquest she had care of the child who came from Dr
Barnardo’s Homes for five month, receiving a weekly allowance for her keep. The
stationmaster’s son said he was ringing the school bell and saw the little girl. A
boy tried to take hold of her and she fell on her face. Before she fell she had a
pencil in her hand. After the fall she was crying and he saw her eye bleeding. The
schoolmaster said he told him she had a piece of pencil which struck her in the eye
when she fell. Her eye looked displaced and he sent her home in company with an
older girl. Later she was taken to Addenbrooke’s where a piece of slate pencil was
removed from the eye. She died Friday morning

Thursday 1st June

1975

The official opening of the Riverside Park at St Neots takes the town a step nearer
to becoming an important inland centre noted for its fine leisure facilities.
Although the project is costing about £300,000 ratepayers have not had to find a
penny so far. It is a dream fulfilled for the scheme’s promoters. At the turn of
the century there were grandiose plans to turn the town into an inland spa by
exploiting the “valuable medicinal” properties of the natural waters in the area.
But the spa venture failed. Celebrations this weekend, the biggest event in the
history of the town, are unlikely to end on the same dismal note.

1950

Film company International Realistic has been in Cambridge filming part of a

feature film with many well-known local scenes as backgrounds. The film will
probably be called “The scarlet thread”, and is an exciting “cops and robbers”
starring Laurence Harvey and Kathleen Byron. Market Hill is included with a dash to
Gt St Mary’s Passage and a realistic rugger tackle by the fountain. The exposed
film was rushed each day to London for processing and back again next day in time
for screening at the Victoria Cinema after the usual performances.

1925

A Burwell publican came up for public examination at the bankruptcy court. In 1895
he was working for a man as a farm labourer and cab driver, also for the vicar of
Burwell as groom and gardener. In 1897 he began business as a publican and took the
King William. The only experience he had had was serving at a house where he had
previously worked as a jobbing man in the yard. He bought a horse for haggle-
carting purposes and to use in a fourwheeler & while he was carting his wife looked
after the business. Trade at the pub got slack and the carting business was also a
failure. He borrowed £40 from the Provincial Union Bank, Ipswich to pay the brewer.

1900

A wife told Cambridge court that for the last fortnight she lived with her husband
he was on the drink and did not give her a farthing for housekeeping and the
parties agreed to live apart. He had sold a number of wedding presents that
belonged to her. They were a mangle, dinner service, what-not, book-case, pair of
fancy ink-stands, bread trencher, glass dishes, pair of curtains, Indian tea cosy,
work box, coal scuttle and scoop, toasting fork, egg cruet & vases.

Friday 2nd June

1975

A Bar Hill firm’s bid to be Britain’s number one odd exporter has been beaten.
Eastern Sands and Refactories got into the running in a competition run by an
export magazine and a drinks company for selling £50,000 worth of British sand to
the Arab oil state of Abu Dhabi – which is all sand. The sand was needed to filter
seawater.

1950

Cambridge has had its hottest day for a number of years past. Ald F. Doggett, the
well-known weather recorder, reports that before mid afternoon the temperature was
95 degrees in the sun at his station at Oxford Road. Last night was the hottest of
the year with the temperature rising to as much as 63 degrees. The average night
temperature is 49 degrees. At Trumpington AA box traffic was reported to be the
heaviest for a Saturday this year.

1925

A schoolboy told the inquest that he was on Great Wratting school steps. Albert ---
was playing about and swinging on the back of a four-wheeled coal dray. He was
swinging with his hands when his foot caught in the back wheel. Deceased could not
get his foot out and he was pulled down and the wheel went up his leg and shoulder
and grazed his head. The dray was stopped and the driver lifted the deceased from
the ground and took him into the schoolroom. The driver said his dray contained two
tons of coal and 3 cwt of pollard to deliver at the kennels of the Newmarket and
Thurlow Hounds. The coroner said the driver was in no way to blame and seemed to
have done all he could.

1900

A period of nearly 30 years has elapsed since St Mark’s church, a primitive wooden
structure, was erected at Barton Road, Cambridge, to meet the needs of churchmen.
Newnham is destined to become one of the principle residential districts & as the
neighbourhood has gradually developed so the need of a permanent church has been
the more keenly felt. The scheme which is now intended to carry out is but a part
of a larger and more liberal one. The foundation stone now laid will only consist
of the main parts of the nave and the north aisle and the extreme west end, and the
south aisle will be left for future extensions. The new church will provide for a
congregation numbering about 300.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 5th June

1975

Bangles, baubles and beads have all featured in male fashion trends, and now a
single earring is the fad followed by teenagers imitating their rock band idols.
But six-year-old Neil from Haverhill, must be one of the youngest weeny-boppers to
adopt this adornment. A gold sleeper through his pierced left ear completes his
“bovver” gear of leather boots, striped socks, shin-length trousers, braces and tee
shirt. A fan of such stars as Mudd and the Bay City Rollers, Neil plagued his
parents for an earring after seeing his idols on “Top of the Pops”

1950
Cambridge was the hottest place in England with the temperature in the shade
reaching 86 degrees. Byron’s Pool was a favourite spot where picnickers, bathers
and boaters turned up in their hundreds. One thing which rather marred the pleasure
of the bathers was the large number of dead and dying fish floating on top of the
water. In the centre of the pool there was quite a large circle of reeds with
dozens of fish mixed up in them. Non-bathers too, had occasional unpleasant moments
whenever the slight breeze wafted up the decidedly unsavoury smell of the dead
fish.

1925

Cambridge councillors were told that the present electricity generating station was
out of date. Today was the day of the big power station and what was desired was a
load throughout the day and night. Users had been told they could not have the
supply they wanted because the Company did not want too many to take it on. But the
more the electricity was used the better it would be for the health of the town. An
outsider was knocking at the door and he was coming with current cheaper than they
could supply.

1900

The Coveney obelisk has been re-erected in the parish churchyard at the spot where
it stood before being overthrown by order of the rector. Amid the peacefulness of
the notorious little burial ground it is hard to imagine the controversy and ill-
feelings which for some time raged and which culminated in litigation. On Monday
the monument was erected in its proper position whilst the Rector watched the
operations without raising any objections.

Tuesday 6th June

1975

Posters of David Essex, the Bay City Rollers and Elton John looked down on the
voters of the tiny villagers of Conington as they filed into an 18-year-old pop
fan’s bedroom to record their Common Market voters. And with the polling booth at
the foot of the bed and Mrs Nancy Jeffs drinking tea brought in by her husband from
the next room as she checked off the voters’ list, the whole exercise was quite a
family affair. The village has just 95 people eligible to vote

1950

Riverside, Cambridge, was the scene of an occasion that was described as “a

memorable little ceremony in the naval history of Cambridge”. The training ship
“Ganges” (brick built and on dry land) the new headquarters of the Cambridge Sea
Cadet Corps was opened by Admiral Sir Wilfred Patterson and christened in
traditional naval fashion with a bottle of champagne. During the inspection a
number of cadets overcome by the effect of marching and the hot sun had to leave
the parade. Two or three fainted and others were helped into the shade by fellow
cadets.

1925

Some interesting competitions in clay target shooting were held on Messrs Gallyon’s
shooting park, at Moor Barns Farm, Madingley Road, Cambridge. They were the first
of the kind to be held in the Eastern Counties and attracted a good attendance. A
new automatic trap which has just been installed on the ground gave general
satisfaction. This is the first time that a trap of this kind has been used in
Cambridge and proved its value, not only from the economical point of view, but
also for accelerating the competition.

1900

Though somewhat premature, the rejoicings at Willingham for the fall of Pretoria
were hearty and enthusiastic. On the receipt of the morning papers the call bell
was set going and the ringers were soon in the church tower ringing merry peals.
All the flags and bunting as displayed on the relief of Mafeking were again brought
out. In the evening Kruger in effigy was taken round the village in a cart and made
continually to bow to the crowd of followers. At the conclusion of the procession
the effigy was covered with tar and burnt on the green

Wednesday 7th June

1975

Student yells of “Biafran butcher” at General Yakubu Gowon failed to disrupt the
Honorary Degree ceremony at the Cambridge Senate House. The General gave the thumbs
up sign to a bunch of two dozen students who chanted insults at the Nigerian head
of state as he walked in procession. He was flanked on one side by a hefty special
branch armed bodyguard plus the Cambridgeshire chief constable, Mr F. Drayton
Porter, and by contrast on the other by the tall, elegant figure of Queen Margrethe
of Denmark. The 60 policemen on duty had nothing more to do than keep the
protestors at arms length and stop the traffic for the snail-paced procession.

1950

In the sweet perfection of a fine tuned evening on the Backs, a record crowd
listened to what is surely the loveliest of all events of May Week, the programme
of madrigals sung by the Cambridge University Madrigal Society from punts moored
beneath King’s Bridge. An audience estimated at between 7,000 and 8,000, lined both
sides of the bank as the oppressive heat of the day became tempered by the cool of
evening. Even the loud moo of a cow in the paddock failed to break the spell, nor
did the faintly-threatening note of a high-flying bomber, reminder of the sterner
world out of which the magic of the setting and the sweetness of the singing lifted
the listening thousands.

1925

The chairman of Comberton parish council said that since 1919 they had been without
a recreation ground in the central part of the village. Previous to that year a
meadow was hired annually at a rental of £7. This sum was paid by the amount
received for the herbage on the old pleasure ground situate on the boundary of the
parish. This had never been used for recreation purposes and was useless. The
parish council now wished to sell it and devote the proceeds of the sale towards
the purchase of a new recreation ground at Pennie’s Close, but the owner refused to
negotiate. They sought compulsory powers for its acquisition.

1900

We regret to announce the death of Miss Mary Kingsley, the West African traveller
and writer. She did not go South Africa to nurse but it seem that, on landing, she
found opportunity for using her overflowing energies in tending the sick and
wounded. While thus engaged she was herself taken ill. A few months ago Miss
Kingsley attended and spoke in Cambridge at a meeting of the “Magpie and Stump”.

Thursday 8th June

1975

Dining at the Pink Geranium, Melbourn is warm, comfortable and cosy. In the partly-
panelled dining room we decided on a bottle of Piersporter 1973 (£2.50), unwisely
as it turned out because it was not sufficiently chilled to be at its best. It did
not spoil the smooth, lightly-flavoured pate (50p) or the full smoky flavour of the
trout (75p) and was in prime condition for the sole meuniere (£1.95) and the
duckling with curacao sauce which followed. With brandy and Cointreau to round off
the evening our bill amounted to £11.25. It is true to say it is thought locally to
be expensive but it is possible to get a first-class meal, including a half bottle
of wine, for something like £6 - very reasonable for such relaxing and homely
surroundings.

1950

The May Races for another year began with all their magic. The biggest disaster
came during Division VI and was watched by the hundreds who lined the Gut. The
bumping of Magdalene IV by First and Third Trinity VII resulted in a glorious “pile
up”. Peterhouse IV rammed the Trinity boat which was driven sharply into a willow
tree and the water’s edge. The force of the collision ripped off the bows and sent
the unfortunate crew into the “swim”. For the remainder of the day the crippled
boat lay on the bank as a grim warning to other crews

1925

Cambridge council was told that the Brunswick school did not exist at the present
time because the Borough surveyor drew attention to the giving way of the building,
and they first of all had to pull down the Boys’ School because it was dragging the
other part down, and eventually they pulled down the Girls’ School. The girls were
in temporary premises at Paradise Street school and the boys in Fitzroy Street.
They had to bear in mind that a new bridge was going to be built at Walnut Tree
Avenue some time – (laughter) – and when that was done they would have to
accommodate some children from old Chesterton.

1900

Instead of the usual set piece for Bank Holiday the management of the New Theatre
arranged for a variety entertainment by some popular London artistes. Miss Jenny
Lind was down to appear, but was prevented by illness. The management made an offer
to those who felt disappointment to either exchange the tickets or return the
money. No one made a move to avail themselves of the offer, the opportunity of
hearing such performers as were present was too good to be missed. The performance
concluded with a series of animated photographs of the war
Friday 9th June

1975

A hoard of screaming women mobbed the man charged with raping seven girls in
Cambridge as he was led handcuffed into the city magistrates court today. A crowd
of about 500 people gathered outside the Guildhall and when the car carrying the
suspect pulled up at the rear entrance a section of the crowd surged towards him.
The women shouted insults but were held at bay by police encircling the court

1950

The Cambridge Communist Party has presented a further 100 signatures – making 400
in all – to Cambridge Town Council protesting against the proposed increase in the
price of Gwydir Street baths. Many people in Cambridge were without proper washing
facilities and have to use the public baths. Judging by the addresses of the
petitioners many have also to bear the expense of bus fares and the proposed
increase of 50% would be a further burden - particularly for those with large
families and old age pensioners.

1925

Very many residents of Cambridge who in their leisure moments wander round the
Market Place to see what literary treasure may there be picked up will be
interested in a movement set on foot by prominent members of the University to do
honour to Mr G. David, the well-known bookseller, who has had a stall there for
close on thirty years. A luncheon will be given in the Old Combination Room,
Trinity college in appreciation of the conspicuous service he has rendered to the
cause of humane letters.

1900

A jolly-looking old man, named Richard Piper, was charged at London Summons Court
with causing his horse & cart to stand longer than necessary in Charterhouse
Street. Piper: “Well, of course, I ain’t no scholar. I was brought up at the
University of Cambridge. Give me penal servitude for life, guv’nor, but get it over
quick, there’s a good ‘un. I’d sooner give half-a-sovereign to the Police Fund than
I’d be put off with a two-bob fine”. The jovial Piper paid a fine of 2s.6d. and was
then ejected from the court while endeavouring to put on a policeman’s helmet.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 12th June

1975

Cambridge Union Society’s historic debating chamber, scene of heated exchanges

between Britain’s top politicians this century, was badly damaged by fire. The
blaze spread through part of the floor of the chamber and went up through two
floors of the Round Church Street premises. Crowds gathered in Park Street as a
100-foot turntable ladder was swung into place and three pumping appliances arrived
on the scene. The main part of the building was not affected by the fire. Teams of
undergraduates mounted guard on the building throughout the night

1950
Tadlow parish council have asked South Cambs. R.D.C. to lay water to the village by
pipe line as the present supply of water is totally inadequate. It is need for
farmers, for dairy farming, also for domestic purposes, several members complaining
that after finishing work in the evening they had from half a mile to walk to fetch
water to wash. At present should a fire break out, there is no water until a
brigade arrives.

1925

“I cannot go out the backway or the front door without she throws some insult at
me. I cannot knock a nail into the wall, she threw two pails of water over the
taxi-sidecar that was standing in the road, and if a taxi is left there she goes
for a policeman”, said Mrs Ellis Riseley of Russell Street, Cambridge, the wife of
a taxi-sidecar owner in enumerating some of the failings of her neighbour. In
reply the neighbour said they kept a couple of taxi-sidecars outside the house from
early morning until late at night, she was simply throwing a pail of water over the
pavement for the sake of cleanliness because of all the oil and petrol which came
from the taxis.

1900

An accident such as that which befell Mr G. Flowers of Emmanuel College on the Cam
is always to be regretted. He was rowing in the Emmanuel College boat when it was
bumped by the St John’s boat the nose of which came violently against his chest and
he received a severe injury. Had it occurred in the days before it was compulsory
to put indiarubber balls on the noses of the boats there is much reason to fear he
must have been killed.

Tuesday 13th June

1975

The much-criticised second stage of Cambridge city council’s central area traffic
experiment has been abandoned and traffic flow systems introduced five weeks ago
withdrawn. This means there is again two-way traffic in Regent Street, Parkside,
Emmanuel Road and Short Street. Through traffic is still banned along parts of St
Andrew’s Street, Sidney Street & Kings Parade. City police said many motorists were
confused by the changes which it was improving impossible to enforce. Long traffic
queues had built up at major junctions since the start of the experiment which
brought traffic chaos to the city

1950

Traffic congestion is not yet as serious in Cambridge as it is in some other towns.

Except at peak hours a car can do the run from the University Arms to the Round
Church in less than three minutes. But if within the next ten or twenty years cars
become cheaper, and if the population of urban Cambridge continues to grow at its
present rate, the volume of traffic in the centre may easily double. How long will
the narrow awkwardly aligned streets and difficult junctions be able to cope with a
load that is steadily increasing and may without warning experience a sudden
increase?

1925

While reading the Athanasian Creed on Sunday morning, the Rev A. Campbell Yorke,
rector of Fowlmere, was seized with a heart attack and expired almost immediately.
He was 74 and by a tragic coincidence was making preparations to retire from active
ministry. He had ministered in Australia and New Zealand until 1897 when he came to
England and took the living in Fowlmere

1900

The annual show of the Hunts Agricultural Society took place in the Hassock Meadow,
Ramsey, and the only thing to mar the exhibition was the unpropitious weather.
During the morning horse shoeing and poultry trussing demonstrations took place,
and there were lectures on butter making and kindred subjects, which had an
attraction for many. A large number of the gentry and agriculturists from the
surrounding countryside put in an appearance.

Wednesday 14th June

1975

The River Cam is not only so polluted as to be a bather’s health hazard, but in
recent years has had to be artificially aerated to keep fish alive, an Anglian
Water Authority spokesman has confirmed. He spoke of children who suffered
“diarrhoea and tummy upsets” after accidentally falling into the river in the
Clayhithe area, and of skin divers who were ill after a sponsored Cam swim. He
agreed that via Milton Road sewage works some 8 million gallons of effluent were
going into the Cam daily.

1950

The dusk-to-daylight part of Cambridge May Week festival began last night. For
seven or eight hours several of the colleges put on over their grey stone a party
dress of coloured lights and other decorations to welcome dancers at their May Week
balls. At Downing scintillating fountains spraying sparks, gorgeous aerial cascades
of magnificent colour, night turned to day by brilliant rich light, the whole
punctuated by an obbligato of crackles and bangs of varying volume made up the main
framework of a memorable display. There were even “flying saucers” just to show
that firework-makers move with the times.

1925
The Bishop of Ely formally opened Stanton House, the new Cambridge Shelter for
Women and Girls at Glisson Road. The Home is open day and night, not only for what
are generally known as “rescue cases” but for all those who find themselves
stranded in the town without means of getting lodgings. Many cases are brought by
the police. The inmates stay until they can be restored to their friends or
arranged for in suitable institutions. Originally started in 1854 by a few
undergraduates it has several times been temporarily closed down on account of
financial difficulties and as often re-opened at the request of town authorities

1900

A very heavy thunderstorm passed over St Neot’s district. The steeple of Lt

Staughton church was demolished by lightning. The ruins fell in the belfry, and
caused great damage. At Peterborough a man working on the shaft of the new electric
light works was struck and knocked senseless. Mr Edwards, caretaker at Cutlack’s
Brewery was also temporarily paralysed by a fire-ball which passed through the
chimney.
Thursday 15th June

1975

Cambridge members of the Campaign for Real Ale will take part in a nation-wide
investigation into overcharging in pubs. In Cambridge some pubs charge 26p for a
pint of bitter that is sold for 20p in other public bars. In February the Courage
brewery gave a breakdown of the 20p pint which showed the landlord to be taking 7p
from each pint sold.

1950

Old people in this country used to be about the most neglected section of the
community, but since the war various bodies have sprung up to give them help when
needed and make the even-tide of their lives happier and more conformable.
Cambridge is doing its bit through the Old Peoples’ Welfare Council. As an
experiment they decided to organise a small party of members for a week’s holiday
in Westcliff-on-Sea. Special terms were offered by a number of hotels and boarding
houses at a cost of £3.7.6 including transport by a private coach.

1925
Speaking of the need for a Bath House in Gwydir Street, Cambridge, Dr Laird said
the only houses in the area with baths were 50 being built by the Corporation in
Vinery Road and about 80 houses in Guest, Willis and Collier roads. A very small
proportion of the houses in Cambridge had baths. The absence of such facilities was
a contributory cause of disease. The Ministry wished to defer it because they
thought bricklayers should be employed on housing schemes and hesitated to sanction
schemes that would take bricklayers from houses.

1900

An inquest on a boy of eight, killed by a bus on Castle Hill, affirmed the death
was accidental. It is hardly an exaggeration to describe Chesterton Corner as the
death trap of Cambridge. Four road meet; they are all narrow, and the configuration
of the corner is such that it is quite impossible for the driver of a vehicle up
Magdalene Street to have the faintest notion that there is another coming along
Chesterton Lane and if the two do not crash into each other it will be more of an
accident than if they do. More room is needed at the corner. This would involve
pulling down some old houses. The matter is one which the authorities ought to give
attention at once.

Friday 16th June

1975

Cambridge United have taken the first major step towards a merger with their
Southern League neighbours, Cambridge City. United’s chairman David Ruston said “It
was decided that the best way to approach amalgamation was for us to make a
proposition that if city agreed, we would in due course make an offer for their
shares. Both sides are agreed that something like this is in the best interests of
football in the city”. Jack Ginn, City’s former chairman said, “Nothing can save
football in Cambridge other than amalgamation. I understand City have lost £15,000
in the past year and United more than £30,000. This cannot go on”.

1950
Judgement was given for the Great Ouse Catchment Board on claims against occupiers
for maintenance work on drains done under war-time legislation. A Leighton Buzzard
woman said the board had dug some ditches on her land using Italian POW labour.
They took much longer than English labour would have taken. Another said he saw a
number of Italians rabitting and never saw any of them working. George Stevens of
Wing said ten or a dozen Italian prisoners came to do the work on his land. Asked
if they cut any rushes, he replied, “the only things they cut were my trees to make
baskets”.

1925

A vision of 300-ton vessels using the river to bring goods into Cambridge from
abroad was conjured up by Rotarian Alfred Winship. This could not be done however
until Baitsbite and Bottisham Locks had been enlarged and made efficient. His idea
was to have a ship canal. Rivers had to be enlarged in any case for drainage
purposes. Barges approaching 14 feet wide already used the lodes and farmers were
already talking about getting Scotch seed potatoes by river.

1900

The Vice Chancellor of Cambridge University has published a letter received from Mr
Macfarlane-Grieve of Impington Park. “I have watched the successive efforts of the
University to help the teaching of agriculture on an intelligently scientific basis
since 1893. It would be a distinction for Cambridge to be the first to found a
University School of Agriculture. A Professor of Agriculture without a farm,
conducted on both model and experimental lines wherewith to illustrate his
teaching, is like a Professor of Chemistry without a laboratory. A farm on this
estate will fall vacant at Michaelmas and I am prepared to offer it to the
University rent free till 1909”. The Senate has accepted the offer with thanks.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 19th June

1975

Part of the historic town centre at St Ives was in ruins today after fire swept
through 200-year-old timbered buildings causing more than £100,000 worth of damage.
At least one of the buildings collapsed and others may have to be pulled down. The
fire started in a workshop in Crown Yard and spread rapidly to Crown Street.
Firemen were hampered by falling debris as centuries old timber beams cracked and
walls buckled in the intense heat

1950

Not many people seem to realise that women have been playing cricket now for over
50 years and that in these sex-equality days there are still some who think it is
still not quite the right sort of sport for young ladies to indulge in. Cambridge
Women’s Cricket Club has been in existence for just over two years – and as yet no
one quite experienced enough has played for her county. Cambridge has an overarm
bowling rule and has little or no experience against the underarm method. They were
rather flummoxed when they first played a village women’s team who used this style
of delivery, but they are getting accustomed to it now

1925

Pymoor church’s Diamond Jubilee was a proud day for the little village. The church
and the school which adjoins it were built by Frederick Fisher in 1865 and opened
and dedicated by Bishop Browne. Since that year members of the family have
contributed towards the adornments of the church. A gloom was cast on their
rejoicing because their old friend, Mr George Darby was leaving them after 36 years
of residence and going to grace Lt Downham with his presence.

1900

A very attractive programme is presented at the popular hall in Auckland Road,

Cambridge, this week. One of the most enjoyable items is kept to the last –
Edison’s Concertphone. This machine is Edison’s own invention and is vastly
superior to the phonograph. It is manipulated by Mr Oliver. Most of the records
were taken by Mr Oliver himself and are well up to date – indeed one of the best
was that of Dan Leno singing “The waiter”, which was taken but six days ago. The
records of the bands are very fine indeed, each instrument being very distinctly
reproduced and heard in every part of the house.

Tuesday 20th June

1975

When the King of Tonga dropped in for lunch at The Leys School yesterday, it was
the headmaster’s wife, Mrs Jean Barker, who had to do the cooking. The King was
more concerned with his son’s progress who is in the middle of taking GCSE O-level
examinations. The Kingly menu offered by Mrs Barker – “the first course in an eggy
thing topped with fake caviar, followed by salmon and peach flan”, she said

1950

Strong disagreement with the Ministry of Health’s recommendation to build council

houses in terraces was expressed at the meeting of Cambridge Parish Councils
Association. “People living in terraced houses don’t live as happily as those
living in semi-detached,” said Mrs Marshall of Girton. “We live in the country and
I think if we can have a little space for gardens, where children can play, we
shall have a happier community”. Land could be saved if they built fewer
outbuildings but slightly larger houses with room inside for bicycles

1925

The May Week programme of concerts and balls is now in full swing and there were a
number of functions at various colleges. About 300 guests attended Gonville & Caius
College Ball. It was lit with rose-shaded electric lights, which cast a pleasing
subdued glow over the room, while four large electric fans and two large ice-blocks
kept the atmosphere cool. Contrary to the general practice, ladies took part in the
programme submitted by St Catharine’s College Musical Society. The chief woman
artiste was Miss Maud Johnston, while there was a fair sprinkling of ladies in the
orchestra.

1900

The late Alderman Mott of Cambridge was a benevolent man with a sound knowledge of
human nature. When he made provision that the Town Councillors should go to church
once a year he had a premonition that sometimes the sermon might be dry, and he set
apart a sum out of which the church-going councillors should refresh themselves
after sermons with biscuits and wine. But the mayoralty of a total abstainer, who
has not felt it in accordance with his conscience to do this, has called the spirit
of historical research into activity in certain members of the council. Alderman
Spalding suggested that if the biscuits had been provided the wine would not have
mattered so much.
Wednesday 21st June

Various local buildings are to receive Civic Trusts Heritage Year awards. At
Thaxted the Hunt’s almshouses, a row of 17th-century homes have been rehabilitated.
The Trust comments: “Not only have these beautiful little houses been cleaned up –
maintenance, paintwork and plastering – but rearranged internally so as to continue
serving their ancient purpose”. Ashwell qualifies for two commendations, the new
infill scheme for elderly peoples flats in Gardiner’s Lane and the restoration of a
miller’s dilapidated cottage and building of an extension within the ruins of the
old water mill, to form a private house

1950

From tomorrow until Monday, Midsummer Common will once again be the money-spinning
mecca of Cambridge’s youth, the young in years and spirit. A hundred engines will
cough and splutter to power the transformation. 10,000 coloured lights will be
waiting to give artificial brilliance to the scene. Canned music will blare from
the hurdy-gurdies, the fair will be on.

1925

Swavesey church is a very fine structure, nearly 600 years old, and work of
restoration has been carried out during recent years under the supervision of the
Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, but much remains to be done. The
roof of the north and south aisles are in urgent need of attention, work involving
a heavy expenditure. At the annual garden fete and sale of work Miss Lucy Dunn
recalls that during her residence in the village there were great floods,
necessitating the use of planks and boats to move from the houses.

1900

Midsummer four days' fair was opened this morning. Of roundabouts there are plenty
and there are two resplendent switchbacks. Half-a-dozen shows include a menagerie
and cinematograph exhibition and the remainder of the fair is made up of shooting
galleries, coconut shies, toy and sweet meat stalls, cheapjack wares and drinking
booths. There are no less than 15 refreshment saloons, some of which serve a double
purpose in supplying thirsty ones and providing accommodation for dancers.

Thursday 22nd June

1975

Shoppers in Fitzroy Street, Cambridge, were astonished to hear the strains of a

brass band drifting down to them apparently right out of the sky. But the band was
real enough. Perched in the little bandstand on the top of Laurie & McConnal’s
store the player jogged memories back 40 years or more to the time when such
entertainment was a regular event for Saturday shoppers. The revival was the idea
of Kite Community Action. Eight members of a local jazz group agreed to revive the
past and play again. Whether the Saturday morning continues is up to the players.
The store would be very happy to have them play anytime

1950

The wife of a farm labourer left her husband and three children to live – “in
primitive conditions” in a field with a German Prisoner of War, Bottisham
magistrates were told. The woman was said to be pregnant by the PoW who was working
for a Cambridgeshire farmer. The magistrates made an order committing the children
to the care of the County Council, as they did not want to go back to their home
because of village gossip.

1925

The “one-way” traffic system in Petty Cury, Cambridge, has now been in force for so
long that most people have come to regard it as a settled thing, but the regulation
has to be formally approved by the Minister of Transport. The only criticism is
that ordinary bicycles should be included in the term “vehicular traffic” but the
Chief Constable takes the view that to prevent these riding both ways as at present
would cause more trouble than the change would be worth.

1900

Business transactions at Midsummer Horse Fair were carried out under uncomfortable
conditions. Horses of all sizes were put through their paces on the sodden grass.
Business however was brisk, cart horses and nags forming the major portion of the
stock. Buyers from many part of the country were at the fair and quite an average
amount of buying and selling was done.

Friday 23rd June

1975

Cambridge Science Park was officially opened by Sir Alan Hodgkin, President of the
Royal Society and Fellow of Trinity College. The park came from an idea by Sir
Neville Mott, who led a committee which first proposed the setting up of a Science
Park in Cambridge to further scientific industrial development in the city. Trinity
College has spent £650,000 to date on developing the centre. The site has four
tenants so far.
1950

Traffic using the Chatteris-Mepal road has for sometime past unknowingly had a
miraculous escape from being involved in a serious accident on the Chatteris side
of the bridge over the Old Bedford River. The subsoil under the metal road had
completely subsided leaving only one thickness of road metal to prevent traffic
from dropping into a large cavity about eight feet deep, which extends to almost
half the width of the road. It might have collapsed at any moment

1925

At the Leys School Jubilee Speech Day the Chairman of Governors thought that all
interested in the school might congratulate themselves on the steady, distinguished
and continual progress in all directions. In scholarship and in sport they held
their own. The Leys Mission in London had been acknowledged to be the finest public
school mission, alike in its premises and activities, in the world.

1900

A great scare was created by the news of an explosion at Messrs Chivers’ Jam
Factory at Histon and great alarm was occasioned by the exaggerated reports. An
explosion did actually take place when a pipe leading from the boiler-room burst
with a loud report and some slates were blown from the roof. Work was suspended for
a time, as the explosion had been heard in every part of the factory. Chivers’
factory has been singularly free from accidents & it is eminently satisfactory to
find that the ill effects of the explosion were confined to slight damage to
apparatus, which can be speedily remedied.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 26th June

1975

One of St Neots best-known public houses, the Old Falcon Hotel, in the Market
Square is up for sale and is expected to fetch at least £100,000. It is one of
scores of properties which have been affected by the planning blight in the town
centre during the past twelve years. One of the two proposed alternative road
plans, later scrapped following pressure from townspeople, would have passed right
through the rear of the hotel.

1950

Current tendencies towards over-planning and regimentation were criticised by the

Master of Downing College at Leys School speechday. “I cannot but be disturbed at
the modern tendency for intensive planning and indeed super planning where we have
ever-growing hedges of regulations and a tendency to judge men by their records in
a card index. Would the prize-winners of the future have their careers chosen for
them by a civil servant – helped by a psychiatrist – who would study the child’s
records from his first protest to the world to his leaving school. One day
frustrated middle-age would rise in revolt and consign the super-planners to a
gigantic bonfire of their own plans”, he said.

1925

Yet another precedent was created by the Mayor (Councillor Mrs Hartree) when under
Midsummer Fair was officially opened in the presence of a good crowd. This is the
first time in its long history that the Fair has been opened by a lady. There
followed a liberal scattering of shining coppers and children, their elders as well
as Fair hands pushed and scrambled in the dust to securer the coveted coins. The
roundabout horses were soon laden with merrymakers while housewives, for a more
serious purpose, haunted the innumerable crockery stalls in search of bargains in
china.

1900

The Manager of the Gas Light Company said that Illsley & Sons had agreed to
purchase 400 tons of coke and clear it daily. Coke was produced daily and had to be
carted away equally to prevent inconvenience to the seller. The price of coke was
rising and it was in their interest to get the coke away. On five days they did not
send for it at all. The contractors were not at the yard at the proper time; they
did not wait at the doors of paradise – the gates of the Gas Company at seven
o’clock.

Tuesday 27 June

1975

The temptation to buy strawberries this weekend may be overwhelming, but buy
without thought and you have a more than even chance of being taken for a ride.
Prices vary from 42p to 40p per half-pound & only the astute shopped can be sure of
getting quality and the right quantity. At a stall on Market Hill I selected a 25p
box and asked for them to be weighed. They were below ½ lb and with a cheerful
smile the assistant added two more strawberries – from another punnet!

1950

Sir – there is no doubt that the fish which turned up in such huge numbers at
Baitsbite Lock are in fact the fish which were killed in the upper reaches of the
Cam. It appears they sank to the bottom of the river and have travelled through the
entire May Races course unobserved. The fact that their number is greatly increased
is due to them now being all floaters and the stench from their decaying bodies is
best left to the imagination. There is apparently no organised body to prevent them
drifting into the town course and whose further duty would be the removal and
burial of these unfortunate fish – W.J. Morley

1925
Dr Searle of the Cambridge Fish Preservation and Angling Society said wholesale
destruction of fish life was going on. Fish in the Granta were being destroyed by
washings from tarred roads and by netting. There were 500 anglers in one club in
Cambridge and 200 in another. Anglers from Sheffield came down frequently and
caught undersized fish and threw them out on the bank

1900

I have discovered another veteran actor, now in his 87th year who has lived during
four reigns, performing Romeo at the age of 20 and appeared as harlequin at 60. His
name if Edward Miles and is resident at Wisbech. When a clerk in 1834 he collected
rent from Joey Grimaldi, the clown. When Joey discovered the boy was stage-struck
he advised him to take to the profession. He acted with Sheridan, Knowles and
Charles Kean. The Mayor of Wisbech, discovering that the old actor was in poor
circumstances, has started collecting money for his benefit.

Wednesday 28th June

1975

Sky-rocketing potato prices look like forcing many Mid-Anglian fish & chip shops
into temporary closure. With new potatoes being quoted at upwards of £170 a ton
owners are saying: “either we put up our prices and lose customers, or we shut for
a while”. “None of us want to sell chips at 14p a portion”, said Mr Jack Holliday
of the Quality Fish Shop in Mill Road. If he increased his price for a portion of
chips from 8p to 12p or alternatively halved the size of the portion the public
would cringe, he added.

1950

Should the new secondary modern school for the southern part of Cambridge be built
in the vicinity of Wort’s Causeway of on the Ventress Farm estate? Cambridge
education committee prefer Wort’s Causeway as being more central for Trumpington
and Cherry Hinton children but the planning committee thought it suited their
planning arrangements better for it to be where Queen Edith’s Way joined Hills
Road. An alternative had been suggested that to preserve an open space the playing
fields should be situated on the Ventress Farm estate and only the school on Worts
Causeway.

1925

A somewhat alarming rumour as to four men engaged in harvest work in West Fen, Ely,
having been poisoned after drinking beer, has gained ground in the last day or two.
It appears they were working in a field and had stopped for refreshments. Each
drank some beer from a bottle, which evidently had previously contained paraffin
oil. Afterwards the men complained of pains in the stomach. Three recovered
sufficiently form the attack to proceed with their work but the fourth was not so
fortunate and medical attention had to be obtained.

1900
A delegation from Prickwillow appeared before Ely Urban District Council. Rev
Kingdon asked for a road to be made from the bridge to the second Drove. It was
extremely bad and one of their worst droves. There were a considerable number of
children who lived along the bank and they should be able to get to school in some
sort of comfort. With regard to vehicular traffic, in some seasons of the year it
was absolutely impossible to get along.

Thursday 29th June

1975

Nude bathing is spoiling the prospect of fishing in a lake at West Town Park,
Haverhill. Their antics are disturbing the 300 breeding fish. There were about six
local people, men and women, swimming, snorkel diving and diving and the effect on
the fish is the same as blasting a twelve-bore in a small room filled with people,
complained one angler

1950

Rock Estate and Cherry Hinton Road shopping centre revised early closing
arrangements. The proprietors of the establishments beg to announce that as from
Thursday 6th July they will remain open all day on Thursdays and that early closing
day will in future be Wednesday. Signed: Colton footwear, Reg King the Cycle
Specialist, C.J. Sampson, Bennett & Moore bakers, F.G. Cornwell grocery, B. Bennett
wools and lingerie & C.H. Wisbey fruiterer - Advertisement

1925

A very important addition to the garage accommodation of Cambridge is the new depot
just opened by the enterprising firm of Messrs King & Harper in Hills Road. It is
situated just off the busy centre of the town so that people who are timid can
drive up without much trouble and receive attention without being hustled by the
police. King & Harper sell so many cars that it is quite impossible for them to
give the service at Bridge Street to all the people who wish to come to them. In
front of the garage is a petrol filling station from which four different kinds of
petrol can be obtained at a moment’s notice. Two large wash-downs have been
provided which owner-drivers may use for the purpose of washing their cars.

1900

The Egerton House training establishment at Newmarket is said to be the largest of

its kind in the world. The small town of buildings has its own electric lighting
plant, its own cooks, kitchen and caterer, employs its own carpenters, blacksmiths
etc. in addition to a small army of stable lads. A short time since Mr Marsh
determined to have a small church erected on the place. It was from this building
that smoke was seen to be issuing. The organ had been badly damaged by the flames.
The church is lighted by electricity and the outbreak was caused by the fusing of
one of the wires due to a short circuit.
Friday 30th June

1975

A glittering prize dangles within reach of Joe Bugner, of St Ives, tonight – the
world heavyweight title. Bugner fights the legendary Muhammad Ali for the title –
sport’s richest prize in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The world will be Bugner’s oyster
if he pulls it off, but win, or loose, he will have achieved a dream in fighting
Ali for the title. His mother, Mrs Marget Bugner said:” I think Joe will win. He is
very clever now, older, wiser and more mature”

1950

Partial obstruction of a right of way in Station Road, Gt Wilbraham was the subject
of an action at the County Court. The average width of the lane had been twelve
feet, now a lady had put up a shed and there was room only for pedestrians or a
cycle to get by. Elijah Dawson said it was used by carts & on Sundays when there
was “all sorts of courting”, there were always one or two cars. Cross-examined as
to whether people objected to traffic using the lane he said his mother might do so
if a load of manure went by when she was having her tea – but only in the house and
not to the person concerned.

1925

In June 50 years ago Court Alexander of the Ancient Foresters was started in the
Alexandra Rooms. They did not make much headway however. In 1882 Brother
Littlechild was appointed secretary and held the office until 1915. They changed
their headquarters several times and soon got on a sound footing. Today their total
funds were £6,341 & their sick and funeral fund was worth £5,238. The court was
going on very well indeed.

1900

The first annual meeting of the Haverhill & District Football League was held at
the Rose and Crown Hotel, Haverhill. All the matches had been played without any
climatic or other interference. Cambridge St Mary’s had gained the honour of being
first champions of the league followed by Haverhill Rovers, Saffron Walden, Long
Melford & Halstead. It was a matter of regret the League were unable to secure a
suitable trophy for the championship, only the sum of ten shillings having been
subscribed.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 3rd July

1975

The Environment Minister, Mr Anthony Crosland has rejected a plan to build a

supermarket on the Scotsdale Garden Centre site at Gt Shelford. He says that the
development would be in the wrong place, at the wrong time and would result in the
over-provision of large-scale shopping. If it was permitted in addition to the
recently built Sainsbury’s supermarket at Brooks Rd, Cambridge and the centre
planned for Bar Hill it would overprovide shopping facilities in the “20-minute
zone” car shopping journey area from Cambridge. In the longer term, however,
population growth might justify further substantial additions to the food retailing
outlets.
1950

Several properties changed hands at auction. The Station Garage, Linton, sold at
£2,750. Nos.54 Herbert Street & 231 Victoria Rd, Cambridge, made £1500 and £1,110
respectively. No.91 Mawson Road, Cambridge, sold for £900 and no.8 Selwyn Gardens
was withdrawn at £5,750 and is now for sale by public treaty

1925

The annual swim through Cambridge may be said to rank as one of the finest races
witnessed since it inception. There were 37 competitors, including 14 ladies. The
course followed by the swimmers from the Old Mill, Mill Lane to Strange’s
Boathouse, Jesus Lock, via the Backs of the colleges is approximately 1,360 yards.
The town turned out in force at every point of vantage to watch the progress of the
swimmers. H.P. Lavender passed the winning post barely five yards in front of Miss
Lavender amidst the applause of the onlookers.

1900

A fire occurred in a warehouse at Birt’s Lane, St Ives, occupied by Mr Cole of the

Golden Lion Hotel as a stable. The building stands between the Friends’ Meeting
House on one side and the Old Baptist Chapel (now used by Mr Ruston as an implement
warehouse) on the other, whilst immediately opposite is Mr Warner’s large leather-
curing warehouse. The Fire Brigade was soon on the spot but the supply of water was
very meagre. The whole of the contents of the building were destroyed, together
with the roof and floors, only the outer walls being left standing.

Tuesday 4th July

1975

Only three of the 54 firms who have been given tenancies of the new shops in Lion
Yard, Cambridge, are local, and there is considerable disquiet in some local
quarters over this, said the secretary of Cambridge Chamber of Commerce. “A lot of
the names are of big firms in London in the rag trade and jewellery. They can
afford the high rents, but the smaller traders of Cambridge who would have expected
to get the chance of a letting cannot”, he said

1950

Members of the 50 Car Club assembled for a night rally. Starting at 10.30 pm
competitors were required to cover a road course of over 100 miles visiting various
locations at each of which some obstacle had to be surmounted. The difficulties
encountered were numerous – a lonely wood concealing one objective was haunted by
ghostly moans and sinister music and another clue could be reached only by paddling
in the Granta near Byron’s Pool. A realistically-staged “road accident” brought
horror to more than one competitor.

1925

A device which would prove invaluable in any Cambridge home is the Permutit
Household Water Softener. A lecturer said Cambridge water is good except for the
large amount of chalk, which is responsible for the hardness of the water. He
demonstrated with the aid of the apparatus how hardness could be eliminated and a
water produced which was softer than rain water but without its disadvantages.
1900

Four young men were at 11pm on their way back to their work in the offices of the
Cambridge Daily News – where every Thursday they are engaged for the greater part
of the night. On the steps of Mr Gower’s tobacconist shop a dust pail was standing
which got knocked into the street. Two police constables took them into custody,
seized their arms and marched them off to the police station. There was no one to
take the charge and they were detained for over an hour. There was a time when men
were hung for sheep stealing. The disproportion between this crime and the
punishment is hardly less glaring.

Wednesday 5th July

1975
Fifty patients were led to safety was fire raged through part of Fulbourn
psychiatric hospital. The blaze began in the music room in the recreation block at
Kent House, a unit established within the hospital 11 years ago as a residential
and day centre dealing with psychiatric disorders. The house was empty, as the
tenants had moved out that morning to a new home in Soham

1950

Using pre-cast and interlocking concrete blocks three men laid the equivalent of
3,000 bricks in just under 3½ hours on the Newmarket Road housing estate,
Cambridge. The blocks, patented under the name of “Dri-Crete” are the results of
research by Mr B. F. Hartley, director of the British Art Tile Co. of Mill Road.
During 1950 two houses have been erected at the new satellite town of Newton
Aycliffe, near Darlington, using the blocks. Members of the Dri –Crete Association
visited Papworth to see farm buildings erected form the blocks and to Waterbeach
RAF station to inspect Dri-Crete walls.

1925

As from July 1st all policemen will live rent free, the Chief Constable reported.
The need for a police house at Harston was very urgent because the owner of the
house which the policeman now occupied had been waiting until the officer moved
before he could get married. The new Cambridge town planning scheme was bringing a
road from Cherry Hinton to the Ditton and Horningsea road and they wanted a site on
the Cambridge side of the new road. At Burwell the police house was complete, with
the exception of the water supply

1900

The Society of the Sacred Mission has its headquarters at Mildenhall. Its aim is to
establish a monastic settlement to train lay and clerical brothers, both boys and
men, for foreign and home mission work. Its inhabitants mostly wear the dress of
the monks of the Roman Church, there are eight services in the day, and silence is
obligatory at all meals and always till noon. It was here that young Cavalier was
received in the summer of 1898, the boy’s parents being kept in ignorance of his
whereabouts for many weeks

Thursday 6th July

1975

Joe Bugner, sporting a black eye and a slimmer waistline after his unsuccessful bid
at the World Heavyweight Boxing Championship returned to his home town of St Ives
to a tumultuous welcome from hundreds of townsfolk. The Mayor told the crowd: “We
are perhaps a little disappointed that Joe did not bring back the coveted award
this time”

1950

A two-hour deluge with thunder and lightning brought flood damage to many parts of
Cambridge. Amongst offices flooded were those of the C.D.N. Trouble started when
three drains ceased to cope with the water from a large pool which had formed. The
overflow forced a way into one of the printing rooms and bundles of newspapers were
hastily built around the rotary printing machine to prevent it being put out of
action. Members of staff had to remove their socks and shoes and roll their
trousers knee-high to bail out and deal with the blocked drains.

1925

The Ministry of Transport inquiry into the one-way vehicular traffic scheme in
Petty Cury & Market Street, Cambridge, was held in the Guildhall. There was a very
small attendance. Cambridge suffered, in common with other old towns, from the
traffic problem. There had always been a great deal of traffic in these streets and
the congestion was very serious. Both streets were used by motor buses. There were
no objections but a great body of people wanted the regulation to cover bicycles as
well as other vehicles.

1900

The Castle, East Hatley, was totally destroyed by fire. The house is part of the
estate of Sir Charles Hamilton, of Hatley Park and was rented as a summer
residence. The fire originated when a small methylated spirit stove was overturned.
Once the thatch caught the flames spread with marvellous rapidity. The walls were
lightly built of match-boarding and corrugated iron after the style of an Indian
bungalow and in a quarter of an hour the pretty building had collapsed like a house
of cards. A more solidly built wing, separated by a conservatory was, with great
effort, saved

Friday 7th July

1975

St Michael’s church, Longstanton, a part-thatched building dating back to the 13th

century will be preserved for future generations. The church, which stands empty
and has been the target of hooligans, is to be put under the care of the Redundant
Churches Fund. It was declared redundant in November 1973 and was without heating
or lighting. There are minor repairs to be carried out before the church will once
again be opened to the public.

1950

Teachers, parents and children gazed hopefully at the threatening skies when sudden
rain held up the Rose Queen Festival presented by pupils of the Sawston village
school. Happily it was only a passing shower and the Rose Queen (Beatrice Turner)
and her attendants were able to open the ceremony with a procession which made up
for anything the weather lacked in colour. After the Queen had been crowned by Mrs
Elma De Bruyne she was entertained by a play in mime. Costumes were by Mrs Sharp
and the choir was instructed by Mr E. Foster.
1925

A traction engine driver was fined for assaulting Octavia Bocock, farmer and a
well-known cricketer of Ashley. He had seen the man with his traction engine on the
road near his pond where it had stopped to take water. He had no right to do so
without permission. The driver said he had permission from the foreman to take two
or three pails of water as he could get plenty of clean water at Lydgate. Bocock
said he would stand in front of the engine until he paid him 5s. but the driver
drove on.

1900

Newmarket RDC received a petition calling for an inquiry into the proceedings of
Wicken parish council. A clerk had been appointed who holds the post of assistant
overseer and district councillor at a salary of £30 a year. He had since obtained
the office of sub-surveyor for his son, a boy of 17, with no qualifications for the
post, the work having since his appointment been executed by the District
Councillor himself. This appointment was made in the face of a strong
recommendation by the inhabitants in favour of a man well qualified for the office.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 10th July

1975

Dozens of traders in central Cambridge have mounted a campaign aimed at persuading

the city council to drop its traffic control scheme, which prevents cars from going
along parts of King’s Parade, St Andrew’s Street & Sidney Street. They are
complaining about a big slump in business since the scheme started six months ago.
Some say they have experienced a 50% drop. Shops are hit by the traffic ban during
the day and restaurants, pubs & places of entertainment suffer at night. Tomorrow
the council will be recommended to ask Whitehall to make the scheme permanent.

1950

One of the most impressive firework displays seen in Cambridge since VJ Day came as
a climax to the Pye Radio Jubilee Sports, held on the sports club ground. Starting
at 2pm and lasting until midnight there was something to cater for all tastes –
with the added attraction of a specially imported fairground complete with dodgems.
A crowd estimated at 4,000 passed through the gates during the day and the
refreshment tents and ice-cream sellers did record business.

1925

A large portion of the Horseheath Estate, extending over 1,000 acres will be
offered for sale by auction. It includes four farms and numerous cottages and small
holdings. The most important is Horseheath Park Farm which has been in the
occupation of the owner of the estate, Mr T. Wayman Parsons for a number of years.
The farm could be readily converted into a capital stud farm, and it is interesting
to note that a Derby winner, Plenipotentiary, was trained on the Horseheath Estate.

1900

A party of four men were engaged in carting hay from a field situate in Bannald’s
Drove, Waterbeach when a heavy storm, accompanied by thunder and lightning
compelled them to seek shelter. The employer and two labourers crept under the
cart. One man remained on the cart holding his pitch fork in an elevated position
and the lightning must have been attracted to it. The fork acted as a conductor to
his body, though which the electric fluid passed, finally losing itself in the
earth where the three men were crouching. One was killed and the others badly
injured.

Tuesday 11th July

1975

Mid-Anglia’s potato crisis is claiming its first commercial victims. With the
potato shortage and rocketing prices, a number of fish & chip shops are considering
closing down. One shop in Brampton shut up more than a week ago and others are
wondering whether it is worth carrying on when they have to sell chips at 15p a
portion. Bad weather at the start of the year delayed potato planting which meant
old potatoes were running out before reasonably sized new ones could be harvested.
Now drought is causing more problems

1950

Another freak summer storm swept across Cambridge leaving in its wake a trail of
flooded houses and business premises. Firemen spent nine hours pumping 5,000
gallons of water form the basement of Frederick Day’s the Hills Road hairdresser.
He said: “It has cost me £100. A permanent waving machine and a dryer which were in
the basement were completely ruined. I had to dump them on the tank-trap in
Coldham’s Lane this morning”.

1925

Great interest was taken in the wedding in King’s College chapel of Dr John
Roughton and Miss Alice Hopkinson. Only two weddings had previously taken place in
the chapel in the last 28 years. The bride wore a beautiful dress of cream satin
with seed pearls and diamantee.

1900

At the first annual meeting of the Haverhill & District Football League the
Secretary congratulated the league upon the successful issue of the first season’s
competition, all the matches being played without any climatic or other
interference. Cambridge St Mary’s had gained the honour of being the first
champions of the League. It is a matter of regret they had not managed to secure a
suitable trophy for the championship, only the sum of ten shillings having been
subscribed

Wednesday 12th July

1975

Newmarket shoppers were amazed to find they could cross High Street without taking
their life in their hands yesterday. Minutes earlier the £9.5 million 15-mile
Newmarket bypass had been officially and unceremoniously opened by the last of the
Wimpey men who have been working on it for two years. The long-awaited bypass
immediately took 75% of the traffic out of the town. The manager of Laings sad the
bypass would help shopkeepers as people won’t be so scared to come out and shop on
both sides of the road. It would encourage holiday traffic to stop and shop.

1950
Newmarket High Street was lined for its entire length with stationery vehicles when
an accident on the Bury Road brought traffic to a standstill. The town had been
experiencing one of its busiest days for years. This unending stream was halted
when an army convoy was brought to a stop just past the war memorial when a string
of racehorses crossing the road caused the leading driver to pull up. The rear
lorry was hit by a following taxi and this in turn was struck by a third vehicle.

1925

Part of a boot supplied by a Cambridge firm has led to the identity of an officer
who fell in the first year of the war. During the work of exhumation and reburial
recently carried out in France there was discovered part of a boot stamped with the
name of Messrs G. Dewberry & Son of Sidney Street. An examination of their books
showed it belonged to a pair supplied to Lieut. R. Walmesley, late of Magdalene
College, whose family lived in Huntingdon.

1900

Ely U.D.C. heard that a traction engine belonging to Mr T.H. Summerlee of

Littleport, having got beyond the control of the driver, ran down Back Hill, coming
into contact with the kerb in front of the old cottages and overturning on the
roadway. The chairman thought that if it were possible to make regulations with
regard to traction engines they ought to do so. They might cause serious accidents,
as anyone coming up the hill with a big load could not turn round and get away from
a runaway engine.

Thursday 13th July

1975

Motorists will soon have to pay up to 50% more to park in the centre of Cambridge.
Meter parking will cost up to 15p an hour and parking at Lion Yard and Park Street
multi-deck parks and on the New Square surface park will cost up to 10p an hour,
and increase of 3p.

1950
Installation of 24 liquid soap dispensers, costing £25 at Coleridge Secondary
Modern School was approved by the Education Committee after Mr Miles Burkitt had
asked if the end of soap rationing made any difference. During the time it was
rationed soap “disappeared” after being provided but this would not happen now.
“It’s expensive and they are wasteful because these things are fun”, he said. Mrs
Rackham said it would mean a saving in the long run. “It is sanitary and the soap
is always clean”

1925

At Saffron Walden town council it was reported that the electricity scheme was now
complete and a constant supply could be obtained at any time during the day or
night. It was thought that the increase in the cost of the scheme had been the
fault of the consulting engineer. The original estimate was for £6,000, now it has
amounted to £10,000. In time they would be as proud of their electricity
undertaking as they are of their gas undertaking

1900

Sir – The birds of prey watching the interest of the East Hunts Water Company have
made another pounce and seized the Star Yard pump at St Ives. A large number of
persons who have been using this really good supply of water will have their supply
cut off. A lad has been found to have diphtheria, and of course it must be this
Star Yard pump, while the fact that a child died from the same disease in Filbert’s
Walk, where the East Hunts water is laid on, is entirely ignored! When all the
pumps have been closed by the minions we shall be obliged to use the river,
although it has just now a wonderful stench which that august body does not seem to
trouble about - Ratepayer

Friday 14th July

1975
Britain’s first & only tracked hovercraft made its last journey – by road. The 21
ton machine, code number RTV31, was trundled at a maximum 25 mph the 40 miles from
its hangar at Earith to the College of Technology, Cranfield. It will join other
transport “has-beens”, including the remaining TSR2 aircraft, that suffered the
same fate – axed by the Government as an economy measure when still in its early
prototype days. The site & buildings at Earith have now been sold to a firm who
plan to use it as a plant and stores depot

1950

Two literary celebrities were married at a ceremony attended by many people

distinguished in the world of science, letters and the theatre. The couple were
Charles Percy Snow, CBE, and Pamela Hansford Johnson, both best-selling novelists,
playwrights and book critics. The ceremony took place in the chapel of Christ’s
college. The bride wore a banana coloured jacked and hat and straight black skirt
when she left for a three-day honeymoon.

1925

Charabancs, motor cars and other vehicles of transport conveyed hundreds of people
from miles around to Shippea Hill on Sunday evening to listen to Gypsy Smith who
was paying his annual visit to Messrs Chivers’ factory. So dense was the throng
that scores were left outside and he adjourned to the open air where between 1,000
and 2,000 persons strove to get within hearing distance of him. Touching scenes
were witnessed during the proceedings, causing many a man and woman to weep
unashamed. It was an inspiring service which will live n the memories of those who
attended it.

1900

Some uneasiness of mind has been caused in consequence of strange noises heard at
Bourn. Here in 1753 a horrible murder was perpetrated, the perpetrator, a
highwayman, was duly hanged at Caxton gibbet. A year ago some workmen averred that
they distinctly heard noises resembling the rattling of sticks and some residents
have become terrified. Local gossips are busy endeavouring to solve the mystery and
some have been seized with the presentiment that the peculiar noises are an omen of
some dreadful tragedy.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 17th July

1975

St Ives based Sinclair Radionics Ltd, one of Europe’s biggest manufacturers of

packet calculators has introduced a new model. The Scientific Programmable
Calculator is aimed at scientists, students, engineers and statisticians. Initially
it will be available only by mail order

1950

Are men becoming sale minded? When Joshua Taylor’s summer sale started there were a
number of men waiting in the queue for the door to open. “It is the first time we
have ever had men queuing” I was told. It appears that what they were after was
shirts reduced from 35/6 to 25/- and 30/- to £1; a particularly natty line in
pyjamas at ties and socks at almost half price. It is a sign of the hard-up times
in which we live that the store is finding people more selective than ever.

1925

The acquisition by Jesus College of the old Newmarket Railway has enabled them to
develop the Station building estate by the construction of Coleridge Road, and they
are offering freehold land in suitable plots for the erection of private dwelling
houses in open and healthy surroundings, with ample garden ground. Coleridge Road
has been constructed by the college at great expense & is the first in Cambridge
constructed of reinforced concrete. Lots are offered at prices from £225 to £250.

1900

Saffron Walden & the district have been scenes of daring and successful robberies,
chiefly at farms, and harness and fowls formed the major part of the booty. The
premises of John Collins, Skippers Hall, West Wickham were visited and a set of
black leather cob harness, value 40s. was taken away. At Great Thurlow the thieves
visited Hunt’s Hall and cleared off a set of brass-mounted harness. To complete a
good night’s work, as far as the thieves were concerned, they turned their steps
towards Exhibition Farm, Wethersfield, were they took a riding saddle. By Friday
the police were well on the scent of the miscreants. They journeyed to London,
found the bulk of the stolen property in Kilburn & arrested two men in bed.

Tuesday 18th July

1975

Cambridge planners have decided to refuse permission until January 1978 for all
major developments in the city – because of the serious overloading at the sewerage
works. But because of the general economic situation, the cut-back in private
building programmes and the acute shortage of development land anyway the decision
is unlikely to have serious effects on the city. A similar ban on development has
been operated for nearly a year in the “necklace villages” surrounding Cambridge.

1950

St George’s standard, emblem of the Gird Guide movement in England, was seen for
the first time in Cambridgeshire when it was bought by the Chief Commissioner to
the Guide Sunday service in Ely Cathedral. It also headed the march-past of more
than 1,050 guides.

1925

In the year 1625 Nicholas Ferrar, Fellow of Clare Hall, formed a religious
community at the Manor House, Lt Gidding and on Tuesday descendants of the small
sect flocked to Huntingdonshire’s pretty hamlet to witness and participate in the
services. The two morning services were poorly attended, but by the afternoon
several hundreds of people had assembled for an open-air meeting to hear an address
on the community which the late Dr A.C. Benson had written in anticipation of
speaking at the celebrations.

1900

The plan adopted in the villages of amalgamating for the purposes of holding
horticultural shows is one to be commended in order to secure friendly rivalry
between them. The parishes of Oakington, Westwick & Longstanton followed this
course when the society was inaugurated ten years ago and the exhibitions arranged
since have met with a measure of success that has continually stimulated its
members. The exhibits were a very level lot. The peas, horned carrots & potatoes
might be singled out for special mention. A small dish of curious peas of the
Ashley Duke variety caused a sensation. Thurston’s steam horses were in attendance
& in the evening the villagers thronged into the ground in large numbers.

Wednesday 19th July

1975

Advert: An open letter to the citizens of Cambridge. We, the traders in the centre
of Cambridge, have served you for many years. Thanks to ill-considered action by
our elected representatives in stopping the free and unrestricted flow of traffic
through the city centre we find that our livelihood is being threatened. It is a
fact that without a city centre which is alive and throbbing the city will die. By
taking trade away from the centre the city fathers have betrayed the trust we have
placed in them. Let us make 1975 Cambridge Conservation Year and protest against
the creeping paralysis which is being forced upon us by these out-of-date idiots –
Cambridge City Centre Action Group.

1950

Messrs Hall, Cutlack & Harlock Ltd, the brewery, Fore Hill, Ely and the Huntingdon
Breweries Ltd, Huntingdon, have amalgamated and the new company will be known as
the East Anglian Breweries Ltd. The registered office will be at Ely. All the
directors are directors of the amalgamated companies.

1925

The R.A.C. has now opened an additional local office at no.1 Bene’t Street,
Cambridge, in the heart of the town, and will be of service not only to residents
but also to visitors, who will find information about the colleges and other points
of interest. A spacious reading room is provided for the use of associate members.
The office will cover the counties of Cambridgeshire, Huntingdonshire &
Bedfordshire.

1900

The proprietor of Tudor’s Circus of Varieties, Cambridge was sued by Foulger’s

Band. They had been hired for three weeks. The band was composed of five performers
– cornet, piano, euphonium & two violins. They were each paid £1.12s.6d. per week.
On the first night it was a “scratch band” as Mr Foulger could not be there, & the
pianist could not accept the engagement. An important feature in the performance
was singing and dancing but a piano was not an essential part of the orchestra. The
only complaint was from an inferior artiste who could not sing & had no music.
Thursday 20th July

1975

A 53-year-old vicar made a terrifying 200 feet climb on the outside of his church
steeple to publicise the church’s restoration appeal. The Rev. Arthur Rodwell,
vicar of Saffron Walden, shinned up steeplejacks ladders to help place the
renovated weathercock on top of Saffron Walden parish church spire. He said
afterwards: “I feel fine. I made a trial run up on Tuesday and I’m getting expert
now”

1950

Fines totalling £15 were imposed on a Cambridge market trader when he appeared on
three summons alleging overcharge for nylon stockings. He was accused that he sold
a pair of seamless (mock seam) nylon utility stockings at 10/6 (4/- over price), a
pair of fully-fashioned nylon stockings at 17/11 (6/11 over price) and a pair of
fully fashioned utility nylon stockings at 17/11 (5/- over price). He told the
court he had purchased them three weeks ago at 15/- each from Petty Coat Lane,
London

1925

The Saffron Walden Rotary Club received its charter of membership of the Rotary
Clubs of the world. Over a hundred members and guests attended. From today Rotary
would be an established thing in the district. Men however intimate with one
another had more chance of being so when they became fellow-Rotarians. The movement
had no class, creed or politics and therefore all members were equal

1900

For some years the manufacture of Portland cement had been carried on in the
district, but it is today that the new Saxon Portland Company is seriously
undertaking the scientific manufacture of the product on a large commercial scale.
One of the largest and most modern cement works in the kingdom is being erected on
the Coldham Lane, Cambridge. Sidings have been connected with the railway capable
of holding three trains of 20 trucks each. The buildings, rapidly approaching
completion, include eight large cement kilns & an enormous building will provide
storage for the manufactured cement. The works will be open by night and by day.
The electric light will be extensively used and the current will be generated at
the works.

Friday 21st July

1975

How much are stores paying to rent a unit in the Lion Yard Development? Last
October companies were being asked to stump up between £15-17,000 a year. In the
Lion Yard itself the asking price was between £7-10,000 per unit. Smaller units
described as boutique types were on offer between £3 & £5,000. Wealthy national
companies can afford to speculate and rent properties for a few years, but for
small local traders the rents have proved too expensive so far. Of 54 units rented
out only two may be occupied by firms based in Cambridge – Campkins (cameras) &
Waits (menswear)

1950

A successful fete and sports organised by the social committee of the Cherry Hinton
Road pre-fabs tenants association was held on Lichfield Road recreation ground,
Cambridge. Attractions included a miniature railway, Punch & Judy show, treasure
hunt, bran tub & a mother and father’s race. Highlight of the proceedings was a
tug-of-war between the “Lichfield peacocks” and the “Golding Canaries”.

1925

Albert Fuller of London told Saffron Walden county court he had viewed an inn at
Littlebury, but did not make an offer for is as it was unacceptable. He later went
to the Eight Bells public house, Saffron Walden and agreed to buy it for £225 to
include billiard tables & furniture, plus the brewer’s inventory of another £200.
The money would be returned if he was not accepted by the brewers as tenant. A day
later his wife was taken ill and died. The brewers did not accept a tenant who had
no wife or grown-up daughter. The judge ordered his deposit of £25 to be returned.

1900

Sir – Respecting the Star Yard pump at St Ives. I have drunk its water for many
years and never heard the purity doubted before. It has always been the best, or as
good as any in the town & it is a shame that the users should be deprived of the
water unless by the inexorably exigencies of the health of the public warrant such
a privation. If I know anything of my neighbours I believe they would rather have
had their parish church seized and closed than their pump – Another Ratepayer

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 24th July

1975

News photographer Tony Jedrej took a souvenir picture of his wallet by accident on
Friday – then drove away from Girton and never saw it again. Part of his car was
included in pictures taken near the Old Crown public house and it was not until
later, when the developed the film, that he saw he had left his wallet on the boot.
Mr Jedrej believes the wallet, containing £1, fell off when he drove away from
Girton, though his long search of the area afterwards was fruitless

1950

The hearing of cases against a Cambridgeshire chemical company alleging pollution

of the river has opened. They have pleased not guilty to five summons to knowingly
permitting liquid matter to flow into the River Riddy, which was poisonous or
injurious to fish. The offences are alleged to have occurred at Hauxton. Evidence
was given that dead or dying fish were passing under Fen Causeway at the rate of
about 100 every five minutes.

1925

The annual show held under the auspices of the Wilburton Women’s Institute and
village took place at St Peter’s Hall. “Without a doubt the finest show ever held
in Wilburton” was the remark made by the horticultural judge. Here were staged come
of the finest specimens the district could produce. Some fine black currants were
exhibited by Mr J. Sneesby, Mr W. Norfolk swept the board with some perfect
tomatoes & Mrs Healey Wilson had a mauve colour table decoration which claimed
first prize.

1900

Sir – I was pleased to notice that someone has at last had the courage to write
about the wretched condition of Parker’s Piece. Our last wicket was not only full
of holes but we had a little hill rising a yard and a half in front of the block.
Twelve shillings were paid for this wicket and a tent, whereas a college ground and
pavilion (with a splendid wicket) can be hired for 7s.6d. Our cricket club have
been so disgusted with the wickets that we have decided not to play again this
season on Parker’s Piece unless it is impossible to get a wicket elsewhere –
Disgusted Cricketer

Tuesday 25th July

1975

The Queen Mother opened the new £½-million extension of the Fitzwilliam Museum. The
Royal visitor, dressed in a pale-blue turquoise coloured outfit, paused several
times to smile and wave to the crowd before being introduced to Museum staff by
Prof Jaffe. She had a good look at the £2½ million collection of Cambridge plate
on display and after tea she was driven to a waiting helicopter on the playing
fields of St John’s college

1950

Cambridge Council is considering purchasing sites for industrial purposes at

Brooklands Farm, between Cromwell Road and the railway and at Union Lane. The
committee recommends the Union Lane site is more suitable for housing, Brooklands
Farm is unsuitable for industry owing to drainage difficulties and that the
Allotments Committee’s views be sought on the Cromwell Road site. They also reject
proposals for a site off Clarendon Road for the University Press printing works
owing to traffic difficulties and the need to preserve the existing green wedge.

1925

Thunderstorms swept the country. When the storm was at its height, a four-valve
A.J.S. wireless set at Manor Farm, Orwell was wrecked and considerable damage was
done in the sitting room where it was installed. The set was switched off at the
safety switch but notwithstanding this the lightning passed through the set and
there was a loud explosion, parts of the set being scattered all over the room.

1900

An application was made on behalf of the Royston Horticultural Society as to police

assistance at the Bank Holiday show and sports. Last year they had the assistance
of an inspector and four constables. This year they were informed that the police
were so much pressed on Bank Holiday that they could not be allowed to do duty in
private grounds. The committee had others who would take the place of the police
and they asked the Bench if they would swear them in as private constables. The
chairman said they could only do so when tumults and riotous conduct was
anticipated.
Wednesday 26th July

1975

Work is due to start on the diversion of the A10 and the construction of a new
bridge at Stretham Ferry. It will involve diverting the road to the west. A new
bridge will be built where the river joins Chear Lode. The Department of the
Environment says the present bridge is deteriorating and the bend on the approach
restricts visibility and is a hazard to traffic. In the past a number of accidents
have occurred at the bridge.

1950

50 years ago 41 boys assembled in St Andrew’s Hall and formed the nucleus of the
Cambridge & County High School for Boys. On Tuesday one of those boys (Ald A.C.
Taylor) was present with others to join the annual dinner of the Old Cantabrigian
Society in connection with the Jubilee celebrations – present in the highest office
of the town, that of Mayor. The achievements of the school increase, as headmaster
Mr B. Newton John remarked as it was placed very high on the list of the schools
which had won scholarships to Cambridge University

1925

Another great improvement has been carried out over the Old West River at Stretham
Ferry. This is a great boon to motorists for the structure takes the place of one
of those old, narrow, hump-backed, awkward bridges which are veritable death-traps
in these days of rapid road travel. The new bridge is at an easier angle, provides
room for two vehicles to pass each other and affords a fair amount of visibility of
approaching traffic. It should tend greatly to diminish the danger of a spot which
has long been a bug bear to travellers on the Ely road.

1900

In view of the serious issues which are involved for so many people in the prospect
of an immediate strike on the Great Eastern Railway, a correspondent has suggested
that the C.D.N. should tender its advice to the local employees and the Company was
to what they should do. The people who travel at Bank Holiday are not the rich and
well-to-do, but the workers and wage-earners and the strange spectacle will be
presented of working men seriously incommoded by the action of other working men.
How can this evoke public sympathy?

Thursday 27th July

1975

A protective walkway, quantities of scaffolding and expanses of wire netting

surround the Tudor buildings that huddle around the corner of Bridge Street & Round
Church Street, Cambridge. Behind the façade a vast mechanical screw digs into what
was once Jordan’s Yard, overlooked by the empty shell and sagging roofs of the rear
of the buildings. Eleven years after it was suggested that something ought to be
done to rehabilitate the delaying 16th-century houses, work is finally underway to
preserve them as the front of a new office and shopping development
1950

It is not surprising that the advertised sale of such an exceptional property as

the Mill House, Grantchester, aroused a great deal of interest. There is no other
situation in the village comparable to the house, set in a peaceful country garden.
The bidding which started at £7,000 rose without hesitation to £10,700 at which
price it was secured for Mr David Robinson.

1925

Rumours were afloat in Ely that the whole of the employees at the Beet Sugar
Factory were out on strike. The trouble was in fact only in the carpenters’
section. Some had been working as many as 100 hours per week & bearing in mind that
such a lengthy period of employment was detrimental to the men’s health officials
had decided to limit the maximum number of hours to 56 and employ more men. This
led to unrest among the carpenters 180 of whom “downed tools”

1900

In the C.D.N. of yesterday the inadvisability, not to say folly of a general strike
at Bank Holiday time of the employees of the Great Eastern Railway was emphasised.
It is therefore with great gratification that we announce today that a strike has
been averted. The thanks of the whole public are due to our contemporary, the
“Daily News”, for promoting and carrying out the negotiations which have led to so
happy a result.

Friday 28th July

1975
Cambridge city council has accepted an invitation from the County Council to build
an £8,500 bus-rail interchange improvement outside Cambridge railway station. The
scheme includes bus waiting bays and shelters.

1950

At the opening of the new Headquarters of Newnham British Legion, behind the Hat &
Feathers in Kings Road, Cambridge the Mayor criticised those who allowed one or two
“old sweats” to get on with the work. “Remember that some of we ‘old sweats’ do not
grow any younger and it is up to you to bring along the right type of younger sweat
to take over the heat and burden of the day. That is the only way you can be
absolutely sure of the continuity of the work of the British Legion”, he said

1925

An accident of a very serious nature occurred at Ely Sugar Beet Factory. A man
named White was near the railway line when the dinner bell rang. A general rush is
made by the workers for their various meal places and it is thought the man had
left some of his tools on the permanent way. Shunting was taking place but he
thought he could get his tools in time. However he fell with the result that one of
the engine wheels passed over his leg.

1900

A thunderstorm broke with tremendous violence over Gt Wilbraham. Mrs Morley was at
her wit’s end and sat upon the side of her bed and watched the vivid lightning with
bated breath. Then came a flash that rendered her well-night unconscious & the room
was enveloped in flames. In an adjoining room slept some children from an orphanage
in London who were rescued with difficulty. The alarm was raised and soon there
were upwards of 200 men, women & children on the spot and everything of any value
was saved. Only the chimney and portions of the walls of the house remain to
testify to the havoc wrought by the storm.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 31st July

1975

It was a wet welcome that Cambridge was offering any tourist foolhardy enough to
punt past Sheep’s Green bathing place, Newnham. Young swimmers aged about 15 kept
up a barrage of dive-bombing from springboards at the bathing place and from the
footbridge nearby. A custodian said: “It’s a hazard that people who come punting
have to put up with. There’s no way I can keep an eye on the whole lot: on a busy
day there’s probably 3,000 people here. Only a few every complain, I think most
people enjoy being splashed”

1950

As from next Sunday, relatives and friends of patients in Addenbrooke’s Hospital

will be able to visit them for an extra ¾ of an hour. Previously the Sunday
visiting time was from 2-3pm, but consultant staff have agreed to a suggestion made
by matron regarding the extension of visiting time from 2.15 to 4pm. Staff also
asked for consideration to periods of visiting by near relatives on weekdays
between 7 & 8pm and whether there was any way of avoiding queues in the main
corridors and staircases on visiting days

1925

Ely R.D.C. received a petition from Haddenham ratepayers protesting at the great
inconvenience caused by the want of water for domestic purposes. But Mr Camps said
the petition came as a surprise as they had a public meeting to decide whether they
should have piped water and 150 electors were present but only one person voted for
it. There was a strong feeling against but if the matter could be remedied by
cleaning out the wells the people would appreciate the kindness of the council.

1900

Cottenham Gas and Water Company wrote to say that before they commence laying the
mains for the water supply they would like a guarantee that the parish will take a
sufficient quantity of water to warrant them doing so. They would erect 33 stand-
pipes, 400 feet apart. Mr Wiles said 400 feet was very close together and he did
not think the stand-pipes required to be so near each other. 200 yards was a
reasonable distance.

Tuesday 1st August

1975

At Ferry Boat inn at Holywell we decided on avocado vinaigrette, & prawns and
scallops in batter with tartare sauce at 75p and 85p. From a wide choice we chose
coq au vin, the cheapest meat course at £1.95 and a steak au poivre at £2.30.
Vegetables cost an extra 25p a portion and we shared the sauté potatoes, garden
peas and mushrooms. A bottle of Gevrey Chambertin we thought was a little pricey at
£3.04. The sweet trolley bore a choice of deserts, all priced at 50p. We ended with
coffee and a brandy and cointreau which brought the bill to a total of £11.50

1950

When Mr & Mrs Wilfred Moore of Humberstone Road, Cambridge, better-know to their
many friends as “Wilf & Ada”, send out invitations on the occasion of their 25th
wedding anniversary they received such an overwhelming number of replies it became
necessary to book a larger hall. In 1940 Mr Moore took over the Fleur de Lys public
house where he has remained in spite of offers of more tempting propositions. He
said “I have no customers. To me they are not customers, but friends”.

1925

The Vicar said he had a vision. Littleport was growing. There were houses in which
people lived that were not suitable for habitation or for a sick person to be kept
in, especially a mother who was about to be confined. He wanted to see a hospital
with four or five beds where expectant mothers could go to and be watched over with
loving care, freed from the anxieties of home troubles. With a doctor and a trained
nurse at hand the mother would be afforded untold relief. Littleport could rise to
the expense and carry the scheme through.

1900
E.S. Payne has opened premises at Alexandra Street, Cambridge for the manufacture
of artificial teeth. Complete sets, upper or lower from £1. Single tooth added,
2s.6d. Easy payment taken. Teeth scaled, stopped or extracted. Trusses and elastic
stockings made to order - advert

Wednesday 2nd August

1975

Some of the most sought after scenery in Cambridge is being devastated as a result
of the fight against Dutch elm disease. Tourists visiting the backs of the colleges
will find tree felling in full swing. The disease has spread to trees near
Trinity’s main college buildings and systematic felling began there in March. The
college had carried out an intensive programme of tree injection but despite this
the disease is spreading & it has decided to fell all the elm trees and replace
them with limes.

1950

While motorcycling along High Street, Swaffham Bulbeck, PC Lawrence Audley saw an
11-years-old boy driving a 10-ton petrol-driven locomotive, pulling two trailers
loaded with fairground equipment. He turned his motorcycle round and found the
vehicle had stopped and the boy’s father, who had been standing nearby, was in the
driving seat. Pleading guilty the defending solicitor said “It was really a
childish escapade, it is not really unnatural for a small boy to do so, especially
one living on fairs”

1925

Sir. I was stopped by an aged and indignant citizen who drew my attention to the
insertion of wooden pegs about a large proportion of Christ’s Pieces. It seems that
a large slice is to be taken off for the accommodation of motor cars and buses.
Seven or eight lime trees will have to be cut down. It is vandalism to sacrifice a
shady pleasance in the centre of town in order to make a motor park. Must Christ’s
Pieces be mutilated? – F.E.Y.

1900

The annual report on the maintenance of main roads and footpaths in the Isle of Ely
shows that the paths at Wilburton have been kerbed with blue Staffordshire kerbing
& made up with gravel. At Coveney the road has been widened by the Wesleyan Chapel
& the Lt Downham road (Little street) has been widened eight feet and made up with
granite and slag. The fencing at Gilgal has been continued for a further 80 yards
and a length of tar paving laid by the reading room at Doddington.

Thursday 3rd August

1975

Hundreds of people crowded around the entrance to the Senate House to watch Prince
Charles arrive in academic cap & gown to collect his MA Degree. They waited
patiently for 20 minutes when he emerged again after the ceremony. But the formal
schedule of his procession was broken when Mrs Phyllis Hepburn, a friend from his
student days, hailed him from the crowd. The Prince turned and stopped to chat with
her. She said he used to come to her home in Millington Road to play in a string
quartet.

1950

South Cambs RDC considered whether more council houses should be built with less
amenities, or less houses will the full amenities required by the Minister of
Health. On the one hand the Ministry say houses cannot be built until there is a
proper sewage scheme. But on the other they oppose such a sewage scheme for Linton.
The conflict was described as “absolutely imbecile” and “scarcely credible”

1925

For an hour and a half Cambridge Town Council discussed the question of taking a
portion of Christ’s Pieces for the parking of ‘buses and private cars. Strong
opposition to the scheme was forthcoming but in the end the council agreed. The
site will conveniently accommodate 12 buses and at least 35 cars. It would apply to
country bus services only, of which there are nine belonging to the Ortona bus
company and three belonging to other persons. The whole of the Ortona country
service buses, which now stand on Senate House Hill will be removed to the new
parking centre.

1900

The value of Portland Cement in building and engineering work is now fully
recognised, and the trade has developed enormously. Portland cement is almost
exclusively used for foundations of all descriptions, dams for waterworks and
reservoirs. Where bulk is required cement concrete is now almost always used in
place of block or masonry work.

Friday 4th August

1975
President Ford flew into USAF Mildenhall for a 40-minute refuelling stop
accompanied by the Secretary of State, Dr Henry Kissinger. He was greeted by
thousands of servicemen with their families. Massive security was in operation,
security men with pistols bulging under smart suits checked photographer’s
equipment and armed soldiers patrolled the entire base.

1950

The Youth Hostels Association has reached its 21st year and is celebrating with the
publication of a history of the movement. There is mention of Cherry Hinton Hall
and Houghton Mill of which it says: “Vera Watson acted as warden at Houghton nearly
every weekend in 1943. Every Monday morning she cycled the 15-miles back to her
work at Cambridge in order to keep the hostel open on Sunday evenings”

1925

The wedding took place in the Registrar’s room at St Pancras Town Hall of Mr J.
Maynard Keynes, the well-known political economist & son of the Registrary of the
University and Councillor Mrs Keynes, to Mlle Lopokova, the famous Russian dancer.
A slight graceful figure in a light fawn Kasha costume and a tight-fitting brown
straw hat, she was recognised at once by the crowd as she arrived in a taxicab with
Mr Keynes. A woman enthusiast showered them with confetti – an ordeal they survived
with smiling grace.

1900

A Borough Green labourer told the court that for some times the boys of the village
had been a source of considerable annoyance by swinging on his gate and he had
warned he would pull the ears of the next boy he caught. On Saturday he caught one
and punished him in the way he had threatened whereupon the defendant came up and
struck him. They all ‘rounded’ on him at the same time, caught hold of his
whiskers, knocked off his hat and tore a sleeve off his coat.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 7th August

1975

British Rail decided to blow up a redundant pumping station by the railway line
near Teversham. But the building was more solid than expected: seven pounds of
explosive was not enough. The pumping station, which stood over a 75 foot well,
used to supply all the water for the steam engines in the Cambridge area. The site
will now be bulldozed and earthed over.

1950

A post-war record crowd of more than 5,000 got its share of August Bank Holiday
sunshine and sport at the 7th annual sports meeting, a mixture of athletic and
cycling events held on the Cambridge Town Football Ground. A fast track contributed
to some thrilling cycle racing in which Freddie Krebs stole much of the local
thunder. Two high-speed spills had the crowd on its feet, but no rider was
seriously hurt. Growing interest was revealed by the increasing entries in the
ladies cycle event

1925
Sir – the proposed garage on Christ’s Pieces has called forth a crop of protesting
letters; let them be directed against the ugly, barrack-like Councils houses at
Chesterton and Cavendish Avenue. The majority of the houses are literally a blot on
the landscape, badly designed, dreary and poverty-stricken, they are eyesores to
every passer-by. Yet they are being built without a word of protest, while the
cutting down of a couple of trees evokes a regular storm of indignation – Kappal

1900

Bank Holiday Monday was a wretched day for pleasure seekers, due solely to the
almost continuous downpour of rain and the cyclone that accompanied it. The Great
Eastern Railway Company ran excursions to Haverhill for the athletic meeting, for
which some 200 passengers booked.

Tuesday 8th August

1975

Cambridge’ new £1 million plus central library being built in the Lion Yard, is due
to open at the end of September – three months late. The task of transferring more
than 100,000 books and reorganising the library’s various departments is likely to
take up to a fortnight. But Librarian Andrew Armour is hoping to keep the closure
of the main library down to three days to minimise inconvenience.

1950

This year I have noticed a “cosmopolitan invasion” of the river Cam. Practically
every other boat one passes is manned by some of our foreign friends and I counted
as many as four nationalities in one punt. This intermixing of young people from
neighbouring countries is one of the best things that could happen, especially at
the present time, and we must feel honoured that they choose Cambridge as the place
in which to better international relations!

1925

Sawston’s sewerage system being in level country it
for this purpose the Parish Council has been paying
proposed by which water would be raised by windmill
highest part of the village to flush out the pipes.
into the gutterways so that the matter ran into the
constantly needs flushing and
labour. A scheme was now
pump on land standing in the
At Linton people emptied refuse
river and accumulated there.

1900

At Ely council the Surveyor gave a list of bedding etc, which by direction of the
Medical Officer of Heath, had been removed to Common muckhill pending the Council’s
instructions either to burn o retain for fumigation. It was resolved to destroy the
articles. Mr Norman said they must be careful in burning the articles at Common
muckhill. The Chairman (to the Surveyor): “Don’t set fire to the place”. (Laughter)

Wednesday 9th August

1975

The Government has accepted the County Council’s advice that the best route through
Cambridgeshire for a new highway linking the A1 and M1 motorways would be to follow
the A604 from Huntingdon. The county says this route would cost only £9m to build,
against £15m for the other three alternatives and would prove much less destructive
of property. It could be completed in pieces through the construction of village
bypasses.

1950

As part of their proaganda campaign, the Cambridge Accident Prevention Council is

making a 16-mm film, to be called “Horse Sense”. The film is in full colour and is
intended to be a successor to the previous production, “Almost Human”, which is now
on show throughout the world. Those responsible are Mr K.O. King (cameraman &
director) and the Chief Constable, Mr B.M. Bebbington, for the script.

1925

The Corporation seems to have stirred up a good deal of indignation by their

proposals with regard to the Drummer Street “motor park”. In a town like Cambridge
it certainly seems unwise to do anything that may detract from its attractiveness.
A suggestion has been put that the ‘park’ should be established on Butt’s Green and
not at Drummer Street at all.. A petition has been presented to the Mayor asking
her to call at Town’s meeting and it is hoped that the request will be acceded to.

1900

At the meeting of St Ives Board of Guardians the Chairman referred to the evils of
overcrowding attending the boarding-out of London children in the district. In
several cases children were sleeping six in a bed in very unsuitable dwellings. The
Board took no action on the matter.

Thursday 10th August

1975

A hairdresser and amateur inventor of Saffron Walden has been trying to interest
the motor industry in his pointed safety car. The reinforced pointed bonnet and
boot act as deflectors in a crash and lessen impact. He is using his smallest car,
a Fiat 500 for the tests

1950

A non-stop 2½ hours programme of water sports at Jesus Green bath was witnessed by
a record crowd of 1,400 people. It comprised swimming races, diving, novelty events
and a water polo match. The sports represented a personal triumph for Ray Barker of
the Granta club who beat all-comers. Sheila Tudor was the most successful woman
competitor.

1925

Sir – Much has been written about the street lighting of Cambridge. Emmanuel Road,
Emmanuel Street and Drummer Street are all under repair and consequently all the
main road traffic has to proceed via Clarendon Street or New Square. Yet in the
whole length of these roads not a single lamp is lighted at nights. In fact in the
whole district there is not one lamp. Isn’t it time that something was done to
instil a little sense into the heads of those who direct the town affairs? It is
false economy to make the streets danger traps for motorists, cyclists &
pedestrians. – F.I. Cowles
1900

At Saffron Walden a communication was read from the Postmaster General, asking for
consent to erect telephone posts from the junction in Castle Street to Littlebury
Mill. Mr Tuke said residents objected to the wires running by their properties and
would endeavour to get them laid underground. The Council agreed to the
application, subject to the wires being carried on the east side of the road and
that the Telephone Company would, at any future time, erect a hollow post if
requested for sewer ventilation.

Friday 11th August

1975

Cambridge’s top businessmen are swapping their bowlers for crash helmets and
joining the motor-bike brigade. Mr Andy Lee, who has been in the trade for 16 years
said: “It’s my best year ever”. His customers include doctors, housewives and
businessmen. They are just the latest recruits to a fast growing army who are
finding that motorcycles can be more fun than four wheels

1950

Small landowners at Hardwick, meeting by the light of a single spluttering paraffin

lamp at Childerley Gate school, decided unanimously to form an association to fight
Government acquisition of land already under requisition at Hardwick. Under the
1947 Agricultural Act requisitioned land need not automatically be handed back to
the original owner if the Minister considered there was a case for retaining the
land for “blocking” into large farms. If they were to have any chance of success
they would need to fight the cases with all available means.

1925

In the House of Commons reference was made to complaints by hundreds of listeners

in Essex that since the removal of the high-power station of the BBC from
Chelmsford to Daventry, their crystal sets have been rendered useless. In view of
the fact that these sets were in a large number of cases, in the possession of
comparatively poor people, the Postmaster General was asked to take steps to ensure
that the wireless news shall become audible in Essex.

1900

Sir – Now that we are promised a second heat wave, it may be opportune to consider
the question of protecting horses’ heads from sun-heat. In Peterborough, during the
great heat of last month, horse hats or shields were a common sight but Cambridge
did nothing. If some courageous tradesman would lead the way, regardless of
ridicule, all considerate horse-owners would follow suit. All that is needed is a
grass hat of the “Zulu” type with holes cut in brim and crown for the ears. – E.M.
Hort

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 14th August

1975
Tourists and passers-by took little interest as two men groped their way up the
south pinnacle of King’s college chapel. They were steeplejacks from a London firm
engaged by the college to remove a lavatory seat which has crowned the chapel since
it mysteriously appeared on the pinnacle three weeks ago. It all looked easy as one
man finally stood at the top waving the offending object high over his head.

1950

In another 20 years Cambridge should be certain of having a strong and healthy

community of young men & women, for surely the present day babies must be the best
of any generation. This was brought to mind at the Bonny Baby Show when proud
mothers watched their babies judged by an expert authority, Sister Sparrow, of the
Mill Road Maternity Hospital. One has only to walk along the street and look into
every pram you pass to see that all the occupants, with a few very rare exceptions,
are happy and contented little souls.

1925

A serious fire occurred at Sandons Farm, Ashdon. It was first noticed in a motor
house which contained one lorry and a farm tractor. The Fire Brigade were
handicapped by an inadequate supply of water but were able to save several
buildings. Had the brigade been called by telephone from Ashdon they could have
arrived earlier, but instead a messenger came by road and in consequence much
valuable time was lost. This is the largest fire in the district for some years.

1900

An accident happened at Cherry Hinton. The 8.55 passenger train was due, but the
gates over the Cherry Hinton crossing remained closed; consequently the engine,
which was travelling backwards, dashed into them with horrific force and smashed
them to pieces. The head lamp on the engine was broken, but no other damage was
done. The gatekeeper has been suspended.

Tuesday 15th August

1975

It was a disappointed Cambridge team that filed out of Stockport swimming pool last
night having come sixth in its international round of “It’s a Knockout”. After the
initial dejection at its defeat, the Cambridge team picked up, swapping t-shirts
and track suits with other contestants. Back at their hotel they were met by the
city’s Mayor, Coun. Bob May. The biggest flop of the contest must have been the
number of supporters who went to watch them. Only 16 people went up for the day
trip and another 18 made an overnight stop. Angela Maxted said: “It’s been worth
it. Every minute has been worth it”

1950

The urban district of Ely has been without water supply due to a serious break in
the pumping main at Soham. A limited supply was made available to the RAF Hospital
but the vast majority are having to rely on soft water caught in rain tanks. The
manager of the Jam factory said: “I have 20 tons of plums going rotten. I have had
to send for a fire tender to get water into the boilers. We can’t do a thing
because we live on steam”
1925

Ely was nearly dry from noon on Monday to 11am Tuesday owing to the city’s water
supply from Isleham having been held up through the bursting of a main at Stuntney,
where water spouted two feet into the air. Residents were warned by Mr R. Wayman,
the city’s blind crier, that water should be used carefully. The lower part of Ely
was more fortunate as the reservoir on Cambridge Road contained 80,000 gallons.
This was run off at slow pressure and they were kept supplied until about 7 pm.

1900

Posting in all its branches by R.A. Williams, job, livery & commission stables,
Cross Keys Yard, Saffron Walden. Waggonnettes, large ‘busses, Broughams, Landaus,
Victorias, Dog Carts & Saddle Horses for any length of time. A handsome Washing ton
car & carriages supplied for funerals on very reasonable terms – advert

Wednesday 16th August

1975

Cambridge colleges are to be approached by the Arts Theatre trust in its bid for
survival after running into the red to the tune of £18,000, its biggest ever loss.
St John’s college has granted a subsidy of £3,000 a year after hearing of the
theatre’s plight. The financial situation could deteriorate further due to the loss
of a £2,500 grant from South Cambs. District Council and the failure to gain
support from East Cambs. District Council.

1950

A Lolworth lady parked her car in a prohibited part of Cambridge Market Street,
five yards from two “No Parking” signs to go shopping. Three times in the following
half-hour she returned to the car with purchases, and three times PC James Ramsey
told her it was an offence to leave her car there. The first time she said, “How
can I do my shopping”. The second “I know; isn’t it terrible” and the third time
“I’m just going in here”. She was fined £2

1925

Ely wants a pied piper. For weeks past allotment holders in Barton Fields have been
missing produce such as peas & broad beans and have attributed the blame to two-
legged thieves. But much ‘stolen’ produce was found stored between a rhubarb bed &
a rubbish heap, where a big rat was acting as sentry. In the evening an army of
rats of all sizes was seen to emerge from an adjacent ditch & begin to remove their
plunder to a spare ‘storehouse’. One horticulturist says they leave tracks which
are so distinct one would think that sheep had been making their way over the
plots.

1900

Cambridge Commons Committee reported that persons using the women’s bathing place
crossed the river by a ferry from the landing stage on Coe Fen. It has been
suggested it would be better if arrangements could be made for them to cross the
river at a point further away from the men’s bathing place.

Thursday 17th August

1975

After 56 years trading the International Stores at St Neots is being closed down.
The manager, James Pelley, said: “We have been one of the victims of the St Neots
planning blight. We have been completely frustrated by the planners”. The
International took over in St Neots in 1919 from a private grocer, Paynes.

1950

Though the harvest stared early, rain has several times interrupted operations. A
light crop of Victoria plums and gages are now being gathered. Pershores and Belle
Louvaine are moving but the demand is poor. Plums are not in demand by canners due
to a shortage of sugar and of tin plate. An inadequate domestic sugar ration is
also discouraging purchases.

1925
The protest meeting against the taking of part of Christ’s Pieces for parking motor
vehicles attracted a crowd of over 2,000 people to Drummer Street & was marked by a
remarkable climax. After a resolution of protest had been passed the crowd voted a
desire to take it to the Mayor that night. Speeches had been delivered from a four-
wheeled waggon and the shafts were quickly manned and the waggon containing
councillors who had spoken was dragged at a good pace to the Mayor’s house in
Newton Road. Something like a 1,000 people followed in its wake.

1900

Sir -. I have hired boats at nearly every place in Cambridge and always found the
boat-people most obliging. The charge has been 1s each person for a whole day.
Today I hired a boat for one hour and was charged 1s 6d. I asked why the extra
cost. “Well sir, bicycling is off, and the river is more in demand. We have had a
bad season, so are now making up for it”. Vacation is a strange time for raising
the prices. It would be as well to arrange the prices before starting on a trip, as
that would save a lot of wrangling when a party returns. – “A lover of the river”

Friday 18th August

1975

Fears are growing that the interchange between the Northern By-pass and Horningsea
Road at Fen Ditton will bring serious traffic problems to the area. The Environment
Secretary accepts that traffic would increase by 50% but considered the benefits to
other roads in Cambridge far outweighed the disadvantages which the village might
suffer.

1950

A list of buildings of special architectural or historic interest in Chatteris has

been issued. These buildings must not be demolished or altered in any way without
giving notice. The list includes the Parish church, the council offices, the Cross
Keys and Red Lion public houses and a number of private residences including the
Manor House in Wenny Road, currently unoccupied.

1925

Members of the veterinary and medical sciences cemented feelings of professional

friendship with the laying of the foundation stone of the Field Laboratories,
Milton Road, in connection with the Institute of Animal Pathology which is to be
erected in Tennis Court Road, Cambridge. Recent benefactions to the University of
£100,000 from Mr Gates, the Rockerfellow Foundation & the Corn Repeal Act Fund are
to be drawn upon for the erection of the new unit. The vice-chancellor remarked
jestingly that he was relieved that it was proposed to keep the greater number of
animals here, “some little distance from Cambridge & from where I live” (Laughter)

1900

W.H. Smith & Son have recently made a great improvement at the St Ives railway
station in opening their smart new bookstall, at which all publications can now be
obtained. It promises an abundant selection of literature and should prove to be of
great improvement to both the travelling public and the inhabitants of St Ives &
district.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 21st August

1975

Milton children cycling or walking to Impington Village College will have to

negotiate heavy traffic on the new by-pass for the village before they can reach
their school. This follows the decision by the Environment Secretary not to build a
special bridge or underpass where the bypass will cross Butt Lane. He feels that
with improved visibility there would be less danger than at present. Vice Chairman
of the Parish Council said the council had argued strongly in favour of such a
crossing & it was a ‘sad decision’

1950

A familiar figure is missing from 250th Field Squadron Royal Engineers Annual Camp
for Serge C.R. Riggs has completed his Territorial Service on reaching the age
limit. With three years service in the 1914-18 war, he was already ‘an old soldier’
when he re-enlisted in 1926 as one of the first recruits to join the then newly-
formed Cambridge section of the Company. As a true sapper he could always scrounge
in an emergency and when rations ceased to arrive during the Dunkirk evacuation he
successfully acquired a barrel of beer, a live pig, a set of false teeth and two
magnums of champagne

1925

It was agreed to form a Cambridgeshire Walking Club to create more interest in this
class of athletics. This would make walking more popular and they would be able to
have club walks. Mr Fell said he had tried to get a club going for the past 24
years and was pleased to see that the young men were now taking a great interest in
the movement. A man that ran round the track knew very little about the man who
walked round, he said.

1900

The Star Brewery Company applied for a licence to sell intoxicating liquors at a
house about to be constructed near the railway station, Swaffham Prior. It would be
a substantial house consisting of a bar, smoke room, parlour and other conveniences
with two bedrooms which could be converted into a club room. They would erect a
bridge across the watercourse for horses and carts and two footbridges. It would be
used by persons shooting in the neighbourhood. The licence of the Cow and Calf in
the village would be given up because Mr Allix did not want two licences in the
village.

Tuesday 22nd August

1975

Villagers at Reach have waited a long time for a pint in their own local but now
they have the chance at last in The Dyke’s End which opened last week. It is seven
years since the only other pub, The White Horse, was closed. The ‘King of Reach’,
Mr Len Warren said: “This is utopia for Reach. This is what we have wanted since
the last one closed”.

1950

“The Walden”, one of Saffron Walden’s two cinemas was completely destroyed in a
disastrous fire. Flames swiftly enveloped the building, which was largely of timber
construction and fireman were fighting a losing battle from the start. At one time
the fierce blaze threatened to spread to nearby houses and to the High Street
Baptist Church next door. The auditorium (420 seats) & foyer were burnt to the
ground within half an hour. The only portions standing are the front wall and the
projector room where new equipment was installed this year.

1925

The Ely council chairman said he had no idea things were so bad in Haddenham and
that people had to walk half a mile to fetch water. Mr Hepher said there was plenty
of pure water in the parish, but not a good distribution. It would cost something
like £7,000 to take water as far as the Cross Keys and about £10,000 if a supply
was taken another mile and some who signed the petition would drop out. Mr Darby
said they should consult Haddenham before they enforced the silly expenditure on
the village.

1900

In 1885 a large cattle market was erected & shortly after some buildings were
erected for providing refreshment for those who required it. These were very small
& now the Star Brewery wished to erect a commodious hotel with 10 bedrooms which
would be used to put up those who came to the market to buy cattle. At the present
there was no accommodation for Irishmen attending the market. Many come on Friday
night with their stock & it was necessary for them to be constantly attending to
them. It would be put a considerable way back from the road and have space for 50
to 70 horses. The nearest hotel was the Great Northern but it had only a few beds
so they had to go to the Red Lion in Petty Cury. 00 08 22

Wednesday 23rd August

1975

The controversial plan for a multi-million pound nuclear power station at

Molesworth has been dropped. The Central Electricity Generating Board say the
availability of water in the area would restrict generating capacity. Economic
considerations and problems arising from the foundation conditions also helped them
reach their conclusion.

1950
In 1945 Chesterton R.D.C. granted permission for the erection of five pairs of
houses on the junction of Newton Rd, Hauxton. The application was approved by
Cambridge Borough Council who were the inter-development authority under the draft
planning scheme. The County Council now wish to stop further development to prevent
the joining up of the villages of Harston & Hauxton and bring to an end the
straggling of ribbon development along these roads, an inquiry was told

1925

As the result of an open-air meeting on Parker’s Piece efforts are being made to
form a Ratepayers’ Association whose first business will be to contest the legality
of the Cambridge Town Council’s action in encroaching on Christ’s Pieces for the
purpose of providing a parking place for motor vehicles. This was absolutely
illegal. Within twelve months the continual movement of vehicles on what was
virtually a made-up bog the road would drop six inches. The Ortona Bus Company will
be the first people to say they have been pushed into a rotten corner that is of no
use to them.

1900

An inquest was held on the body of a child found drowned at Prickwillow. A seven-
year old girl said her brother was playing near the drain, which runs past their
house. He was going across the narrow slip running between the drain and the
bridge, underneath which was a tunnel. She saw him slip head-first into the water,
which splashed over her. The body was recovered from the tunnel after 50 minutes.
The jury recommended that a grating should be placed at the entrance to the tunnel
preventing such fatalities.

Thursday 24th August

1975

The finance director of the Pye Group, Cambridge’s largest employer, is a worried
man. Not that the group is going to the wall or even likely to run into the red in
the current year – but the fact is that the group’s profits are going to be less
than 1974. Already this year it has cut out 2,000 of its 21,000 UK jobs and is
making expensive efforts to sell goods. The problem is that the recession in
Britain and Western Europe shows no signs of ending.

1950
Mr Ralph Starr, twice Mayor of Cambridge & once described as ‘the best-known man in
the town’, died at his home. Few men have given so much of their life in the
service of the town. He was first elected to the Council in 1904 and served
continuously till November 1945. At a time when there were few Labour members of
the council he was looked upon as the ‘People’s Mayor’. As a young man he entered
the photographic studios of Messrs Hills & Saunders where he remained for eight
years before starting the business to become well known in Cambridge & Ely as
‘Starr & Rignall’

1925

At the Institute of Journalists conference it was suggested that Cambridge

University should experiment in founding a faculty of journalism with a view to
raising the standard of journalism and journalists. But Cambridge had no teachers
who could deal with journalistic matters and if they were to institute a diploma
which did not include knowledge of the inside working of a newspaper office it
would give little weigh behind a man applying for a job. Cambridge turned out the
raw material and it was up to the journalistic profession to get the men they
turned out.

1900

Agents for Messrs A & B. Hall applied for a licence for a house to be erected in
Haddenham at a spot midway between the station and Wentworth, on the site of an old
one, called The Tiger whose licence expired about 22 years ago. There were two
licensed houses in Wentworth but that of the Red Lion would be dropped. The
magistrates granted the application.

Friday 25th August

1975

The Cambridge Sports Hall, opened on July 1st, is already beginning to attract
enthusiastic support. Trampolining and weight training have proved particularly
popular with families who have also taken advantage of the squash courts. Volley
ball and handball have done particularly well through the participation of Language
School students.

1950
A minor ‘whirlwind” hit Balsham yesterday afternoon. A farmer said he was
sheltering beside a pile of beans at the time. “The ton of straw I had placed on it
as a temporary protection was whisked off in no time”, he said

1925

With regard to water supplies in the Newmarket rural district 83 of the 103 water
samples taken for analysis were reported to be polluted. In Soham where about 100
houses were supplied from 56 polluted wells, 53 have been connected with the public
water main and now of 1,1239 structurally separated dwellings 860 are supplied from
the mains. At Bottisham 12 samples taken from different wells at the north end of
the village all afforded evidence of pollution. In Linton a new public well has
been bored into the chalk & consideration has been given to the provision of a new
public well at Milton which it is expected will shortly be proceeded with.

1900

At a meeting of Fenstanton parish council a circular was received with regard to

overcrowding. There were cases of eight people with only two bedrooms. The law was
perfectly clear; it was for the sanitary authorities to get the matter right. Mr
Burt spoke very highly of the work done by the district nurse. She not only showed
the people how to do things in a proper manner, but saw they were done, and
sometimes did them herself. There would be no difficulty with regard to water
supply in the future as in about two months the East Hunts Water Company could
supply any amount.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 28th August

1975
Even at 93 years of age farmer George Graves is working as hard as anyone in the
Saffron Walden area to gather in the harvest. The family use a 70-year-old reaper
to collect in the crop so that the straw can be used for thatching roofs. Next week
they will thresh the wheat using a threshing drum bought during the first world
war: “We don’t need to buy new equipment to do the job properly because the old is
just as good”, he said.

1950

For the past four weeks about 60 children of all ages ranging from 5 to 15 of the
Estonians refugees doing farm work in this country – there are about 7,000 in all -
have been at a holiday camp at Bottisham. The dual object is to enable the children
to keep in contact with others of their own nationality, and to enable their
parents to have a holiday on their own. It is the second year of the camp, under
the charge of headmistress Miss S. Pruden

1925

By the passing away of Mr John Young of Witchford Cambridgeshire has lost what is
believed to be her last Indian Mutiny veteran. Born at Sutton in 1840 he possessed
all the British fighting spirit of his grandfather who had helped the Duke of
Wellington overthrow Napoleon Bonaparte at Waterloo. He was a 15-year-old boy when
he joined the army and two years later left for India where the never-to-be-
forgotten mutiny was in progress. Often he would tell of the siege of Lucknow and
the massacre at Cawnpore almost as graphically and vividly as any historian could
write. On one occasion two men, one on either side of him, were shot down by the
rebels, he himself sustaining no injury.

1900

William Lloyd of Gt Shelford applied for the removal of the licence of the Peacock
beerhouse, which had been pulled down, to a house, newly erected, on another site.
A fire had taken place in a cottage which adjoined the house with the result that
the west end of the beerhouse fell in. But Mr Vinter put in a petition signed by
over 30 residents. There are eight licensed houses in the parish and one, the Black
Swan was within 33 yards of the new house. Shelford was becoming more a residential
place than in former years & if the licence were not granted it would increase the
value of the land for residential purposes. But three-fourths of the people who had
signed kept their own cellars & not one of the persons who would frequent the house
had signed the petition. The licence was granted

Tuesday 29th August

1975

Willingham is a happy village. Mr Frank Rule, an owner of Berry Croft stores,

attributes this to there being a good mix of long-established residents and go-
ahead newcomers who are genuinely interested in what goes on. Next month the new
primary school will be opened succeeding one built by the parish about 1856. Its
future is undecided. Some residents think it should become a village hall, there is
none at present.

1950

The centuries-old “Fox & Hounds” inn in the centre of Barley High Street was
destroyed by fire this morning. Its quaint sign, one of the county’s famous
landmarks, still stands, though some of the lead figures are damaged. All that
remains of the old inn is the sign and the broken front wall. The rest, including
Mr George Casbon’s adjoining wheelwright’s shop, is a smoking pile of debris.

1925

Such good progress has been made since activities first commenced in October last
that it is expected that the Ely Beet Sugar Factory will be fully erected and
equipped within the next four weeks or so. The whole frontage of the river has been
concreted and unloading berths provided for 30 barges. There are farmers situated
several miles from a railway station but near the river and the Factory Company are
having their own fleet of steel barges which will be towed by tugs propelled by oil
engines. Two overhead cranes, worked by electrical power, can be run along the
quayside and used to empty the barges.

1900

Mr Walker, blacksmith, noticed that the thatched roof near the chimney of a house
occupied by Bert Gentle, a journeyman carpenter, of Earith Road, Bluntisham, was on
fire. The fire engine belonging to the village was accordingly manned and a wire
despatched to St Ives for the engine and fire brigade. The Bluntisham engine,
although an old-fashioned one, was placed in Mr Searle’s farmyard and a constant
volume of water was poured on to the farm buildings. Too much praise cannot be
given to those who worked so indefatigably at the engine pump, for although the
flames were driven by the wind to the adjoining thatched barn they succeeded in
confining the conflagration to the house where it broke out. .

Wednesday 30th August

1975

Rampton consists of only 350 people but it is singularly active. The Rector, J.D.
Thomas, said “Rampton people are warm in their welcome (he is in his first year
there), very friendly and lively, with an enjoyable sense of humour. We have a
churchwarden in his eighties, Walter Cundell, who opens the church every morning
about 7.30 and closes it every night.”

1950

Joe Kester, the Grand Old Man of Chesterton Hospital, is 103 today, and in his own
words “fighting fit”. He is even thinking of applying for a pair of National Health
glasses so he can read the small type in the newspaper. Joe was getting ready for
his daily pre-lunch half-pint of beer. “That’s the best medicine I ever had, it
puts more life in me than anything else. It won’t hurt anybody if they use it
right”, he said.

1925

Sir Charles Walston expressed pleasure that the Air Ministry were anxious to avoid
pollution of Offa’s Brook by petrol or oil from Duxford airfield. For a great many
years inhabitants of Newton had drunk the water from the brook & he had never heard
of any case of typhoid in the locality. Now by strange coincidence, within a
fortnight of the examination of the sewage system of the aerodrome by Ministry
experts, two cases of typhoid had occurred. “With all due respect to the expert
opinion of these Ministries”, he said, “the combination of oil and sewage effluent
may be favourable for the breeding of dangerous bacilli”
1900

The Star Brewery applied for a licence for a new hotel which it was proposed to
build in close contiguity to the new railway station which the Great Eastern
Company were building at Newmarket. The station would be one of the architectural
features of the town and it had occurred to those who catered for the public that
if a station of that magnitude was to be erected, there should be a hotel worthy of
the station. The Brewery had secured the services as architect of Colonel Edis, who
had prepared the plans of Sandringham House. It would be in the Georgian style with
a red brick front and would contain eight bedrooms. The company would give up the
Lamb Inn licence and the provisional licence for a new hotel near Warren Hill
station. The licence was refused.

Thursday 31st August

1975

A visit to the lavatory by a railwayman has been caught up in a web of red tape. Mr
Clarence Page who mans the signal box West River Crossing, Lt Thetford, wanted a
proper flush lavatory, after getting through three of the chemical type in the last
seven years. He got permission and a plumber came down and fitted it at a cost of
£25. However when the bill reached British Rail headquarters they were not pleased.
The flush lavatory was ripped out and another chemical one put in. He reckons the
exercise has cost as much as £200. The Union representative says: “We want a flush
lavatory. We want to be classified as human beings”

1950

The biggest trades show under canvas organised in England opened in Cambridge
today. The value of the exhibits displayed is estimated at nearly £1m. and the show
can be regarded as the first big demonstration of the many industrial activities
and specialised trades for which Cambridge has been famous for so hundreds of
years.

1925

Whatever the merits of the controversy which the site of the Jesus Green Baths
aroused a few months back, there can be only one opinion as to the usefulness of
the baths themselves. Thousands of happy, healthy hours have been spent there this
season; in the last four months 20,000 tickets have been issued for male bathers
alone. With such vast number of swims it is inevitable that mishaps should occur.
Mr W.Clee states that 25 rescues from drowning have been made. In most instances
bathers of indifferent ability have ventured into deep water and then lost their
nerve at the thought of not being able to swim to the ladders. In addition nine
children have had to be pulled out of the river opposite the bathing sheds. Despite
a warning board children persist in paddling and frequently venture into water that
is too deep.

1900

We deeply regret to announce the death of Dr Henry Sidgwick, until recently

Professor of Moral Philosophy at the University of Cambridge. Though he was at some
slight disadvantage in the matter of enunciation his lectures were unusually
attractive and even eloquent. He married Eleanor Balfour, sister of the Rt Hon
Arthur James Balfour, the present Leader of the House of Commons. She rendered
great assistance in the organisation of Newnham College, being appointed principal
in 1892. Her husband resided with her at Newnham and took much interest from the
first in the foundation and development of the college. With his death the country
loses one of the clearest thinkers that the later half of the 19th century had
produced.

Friday 1st September

1975

With the school term a week or so away parents have been forced to dig deeper than
ever to kit out their children in the approved uniform. At the Co-op prices of a
girl’s school skirt range from £3.15 to £4.25, white blouses cost from £3 and
sweaters from £3.50. Boys trousers start at £4.25, shirts from £2.45 and a blazer
from £7.75 to £8.30. A tie is 65p and shoes upwards of £5 a pair

1950

The post office proposes to introduce the 999 scheme for emergency calls as from
today at exchanges in the areas of Bottisham, Comberton, Cottenham, Elsworth,
Shelford, Haddenham & Waterbeach. The system enables a caller by dialling 999
instead of 0 to secure the special attention of the exchange operator for emergency
calls. Special equipment has been installed at the exchange so that when 999 is
dialled an emergency lamp and loud buzzer will indicate to the operator that the
call is especially urgent.

1925

There is an epidemic of scarlet fever in the district and the Newmarket fever
hospital is full. Some patients are being sent to Cambridge Fever Hospital at an
expense of 2½ guineas a week. At present the accommodation for nurses in the
hospital is so limited than nurses have to sleep in the wards used for cases
brought in and suspected of infectious disease before any fever has developed. The
Hospital Board are strongly in favour of providing more accommodation for the
nurses but the slow progress of the Newmarket Housing scheme and the fact that
there is practically no unemployment in the building trade has rendered it
inadvisable to divert labour to the extension of the fever hospital

1900

At Cambridge Police Court 38 summonses were heard for non-compliance with the bye-
laws as to the lighting of vehicles. The Chief Constable pointed out that
proceedings had been taken in consequence mainly of the large number of complaints
received from cyclists and drivers of motor cars who were compelled to carry
lights. The Mayor said that taking into consideration that the bye-laws were not
generally known, all the summonses would be dismissed with the exception of that
against Albert Goodman, a railway servant, who had been previously cautioned, &
would have to pay a penalty of 5s. However future cases would be very severely
dealt with.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 3rd September

1975
Stallholders at the Marcade, East Road, Cambridge, were today counting the cost of
a blaze which gutted the indoor market on Saturday night, destroying more than
£100,000 worth of stock. The fire was first spotted at about 11.45pm and within
half an hour the market was a raging inferno as clothes, antiques, records and
household goods went up in flames and asphalt and glass sections of the roof began
to cave in. The Marcade was opened two and a half years ago and many of the
stallholders were just beginning to build up a profitable livelihood.

1950

Cambridge’s own Olympia-in-miniature opened on Midsummer Common. The Cambridge

Trades Fair Summer Festival attracted over 15,000 people on one day alone. In
opening the fair the mayor said: “We in Cambridge know that at one period anything
in the way of localised industry was frowned upon. Today I am thankful to say that
old spirit has died and we can be proud of the industries which have crept up over
a long period of years”.

1925

Linton Rural District Council congratulated themselves on the latest movement in

their house building campaign. Houses are to be built at Balsham at £400 or less
apiece – assuming free sites can be obtained. On these conditions rents of 4s 6d a
week are to be charged and the cost to the rates is only a farthing in the £. They
were also likely to be able to build houses at West Wickham and Carlton and there
were vacant sites at Sawston & Hildersham. The Government would give £12.10s a year
for 40 years for every cottage built.

1900

The first summonses under the new Cambridge Bye-laws with regard to the lighting of
vehicles were of sufficient number to make an effective demonstration in favour of
the new order of things. The police court was more crowded than it has been for
many a day and of the 38 people who were called upon to appear none had been in
that predicament before. The Chief Constable advised magistrates that as the new
bye-laws were not generally known the defendants should be dismissed with a
caution. Of course this leniency will not be repeated but they have secured, free
of cost, a capital advertisement for the new bye-law.

Tuesday 4th September

1975

The rocketing cost of potatoes is having a drastic effect on school meals. In

Cambridgeshire more than 66,000 school children can expect fewer potatoes in their
weekly meals. Instead the County Council is trying to offset the rising bill by
using more bread rolls, rice, spaghetti, suet, Yorkshire puddings and dehydrated
potatoes. About 60% of schoolchildren have school meals, with parents paying 15p
towards the actual cost of 30p a meal.

1950

The proposal by the Minister of Agriculture to take over 700 acres of land at
Isleham fen has not been confirmed by the Agricultural Land Tribunal who heard an
appeal by 33 tenants against it. The Minister’s proposals were in the best
interests of food production but there was a large volume of evidence that the land
could be better farmed in small units. The land had been requisitioned in the early
days of the war and administered since by the War Ag. The Tribunal also decided not
to confirm proposals in respect of Rectory and Top Farms, Hemingford Abbots.

1925

In spite of the difficulties caused by the long drought in June and July and the
recent heavy rains, the harvest in most districts will be up to the average; one or
two even say it will be better. At Cherry Hinton twelve hours incessant downfall on
August 4th have delayed the end of the harvest in some cases. Potatoes, mangolds
and sugar beet look well on the low land where sown early, but otherwise they were
checked by the drought and will prove a light crop. At Cottenham plums are a
variable crop and light except in a few orchards where we hear of wonderful crops

1900

The right of turning out horses on Barrington village green seems to be a very sore
point with many of the parishioners. It was agreed to allow owners the right of
turning out their horses to feed at 1s per head, or 1s 6d for two horses but this
had been absolutely ignored, not one of the persons owning horses having paid. This
has caused a deal of feeling in the village. The wording of the parish award is
that the feed of the village green is for the use of cottagers only, but how far
this is adhered to may be judged by the number of horses seen daily on the green.

Wednesday 5th September

1975

Frank & Babs Munns, well-known to numerous city centre newspaper buyers, have
retired from their Market Passage newsagents. They have been in the business for 45
years. His family started in Newnham, one of only two wholesalers in Cambridge of
Sunday newspapers. They started their first business in Castle Street and moved to
Market Passage 14 years ago. Over the years there has been a big increase in the
number of continental magazines people want to buy. Italians from as far afield as
Bedford come to their shop for periodicals in their own language

1950

A £12,000 scheme for the provision of a new road across the Mepal airfield was
approved by the Isle of Ely County Council Highways Committee subject to the
approval of the Ministry of Transport.

1925

Sir – When are Fulbrooke and Owlstone Roads going to be taken in hand. The longer
they are left the greater the disgrace to companies who cut channels across the
roads and never filled them in properly. Grantchester Meadows beyond Marlowe Road
does not win much praise from foot passengers, and it is the approach to the most
popular walk around Cambridge. As someone has rather neatly said ‘The road to
Paradise is a path of difficulty’

1900

Those who now assemble to witness the ancient ceremony of proclaiming Stourbridge
Fair can guess to what extent its glory has departed. The fair has dwindled down to
almost the level of the village feast. At one time business and pleasure stalls
extended from the railway bridge to East Road and down to the rivers edge on
Stourbridge common. The custom of proclaiming the different portions of the fair is
still religiously observed – the leather fair, the hop fair, the wood fair and so
on, when no such exist or are likely to be revived. The Toll Collector broke down a
portion of the fence dividing Newmarket road from what was in years gone by part of
the fairground, and hurled the portion of broken fence on to the now cultivated
ground thereby signifying the right of the Corporation to that ground for six
weeks. This concluded the ceremony and the Mayor and town officers departed.

Thursday 6th September

1975

Britain’s most popular barmaid stooped the traffic in Mildenhall High Street when
she opened a new grocery shop. Hundreds of housewives spilled out into the road
while waiting to catch a glimpse of Bet Lynch, the buxom blonde from behind the bar
of the Rovers Return in ‘Coronation Street’. Bet – Miss Julie Goodyear – spent
almost two hours signing over 1,000 autographs in the new Spar supermarket shop
before retiring to a back room to crack a giant bottle of champagne with the
management.

1950
Messrs G. Heyworth of Sidney Street took the opportunity to let their suppliers see
their stand at the Cambridge Trades Fair. Mr Heyworth said theirs was one of the
older types of family business with a progressive outlook. Special reference was
made to the excellent standard set by the CDN and the trouble the editorial staff
went to in order to get inside knowledge and get their facts right on any
particular matter they wished to present to the public.

1925

Enthusiastic scenes marked the close of the Brass Band Contest in Cambridge
Guildhall, which was won by the Cambridge Railway Silver Prize Band, the only local
competitors. When the result was announced there was a furore of applause from the
large audience present, and the bandsmen themselves momentarily lost their heads in
their enthusiasm. The dignity of the large hall, which had rung for well nigh two
hours with the blare of brass instruments was quite forgotten. Hats were thrown
high into the air and trombones and cornets waved to delighted friends among the
audience.

1900

At Cambridge police court a girl of 11 years of age was charged with stealing
various articles of food, salmon and shrimp paste, tea, herrings, potted ham and
preserved peaches from the shop of Messrs Hallack and Bond, Petty Cury. The
Chairman said she was very young and the Magistrates felt she had been more sinned
against than sinning. Her mother was evidently not a fit person to have charge of
her, and she would therefore be sent to a reformatory for five years. They hoped at
the end of that time she would be a better girl. The mother was sent to prison for
three months with hard labour.

Friday 7th September

1975
Police and firemen were today probing a mystery blaze at Longsands school, St
Neots. Flames swept through the mathematics block only hours after the first day of
the new term had ended. Seven classrooms were destroyed with thousands of pounds
worth of books & equipment. Longsands is one of the largest comprehensive schools
in the country with 2,000 pupils. The headmaster said: “For a small school the fire
would be pretty disastrous but for a school of this size with 100 teaching spaces
the damaged classrooms are a small percentage. It’s inconvenient rather than
difficult and the pupils’ education will not be affected”.

1950

Cambridge tradesmen have made local history with their Trades Fair. The fame of
this wonder show has spread far – including a municipal party from Luton who hope
to stage a similar venture. There is no doubt that if the CDN runs an “outstanding
memory” competition 40 years hence many will write about the “great trades fair of
1950”.

1925

Pointed speeches and noise in plenty characterised the public meeting held at
Haddenham to discuss the question of a water supply to the village. A few weeks ago
a petition signed by over 100 residents was sent asking for a supply. Pandemonium
reigned at the back of the room, there being so much noise that speakers could not
make themselves heard. The proceedings were temporality transformed into a wordy
conflict between leather-lunged ‘waterites’ and ‘non-waterites’ near the doorway
and it was several minutes before peace was restored. Mr Peacock said he was never
out for water just to wash his car and have his bath. They should ask people who
had dyke water not good enough to drink about the matter. Mr Camps said that if
they wanted water they should have their own reservoir.

1900

At Newmarket a widow lady of 70 years made overtures to the poor law authority in
the direction of out-relief. The chairman, with an eye to the ratepayers’
interests, suggested she should obtain a post as a housekeeper to someone. She
pointed out that a woman of 70 was not likely to get a housekeeper’s place. But the
lady found a situation as a housekeeper, and has become the bride of her employer.
This husband of her’s is her third. It would be a rather extreme step to instruct
relief officers to say to all single ladies of that age who apply for assistance
‘get a situation and get married’. It is not easy to get situations for ladies of
seventy; it is still less easy to get husbands for them.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 11th September

1975

The unveiling of a sculptured horse mural in Newmarket’s new £1.1 million Rookery
shopping precinct developed into a comedy of errors. What opened with a rousing
drum roll and the arrival of the band of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, ended
with a barely audible whisper when the public address system failed. Happily
councillor John Barker happened to have a loud hailer in is car. The developers’
competition to find the best explanation for the clock bearing the figures 13
instead of 12 lost its point when workmen painted the extra Roman numeral I out. It
had to be replaced with the help of black sticky tape.

1950

How nice to think that from now on we can wash just as much as we like! After eight
years of having to produce a ration book every time we want a tablet of soap or
packet of soap powder we can go in and buy what we want, when we want. It is
greatly to be hoped that the public won’t abuse this nice new privilege. Panic
buying by the few will only make it difficult for the many and these freedoms are
too dearly won to risk losing.

1925

There is to be no change in the wages of agricultural workers over 21 years of age

for the next twelve months. The County Wages Committee have decided that labourers
are to receive 30s for a 48-hour week as from November 1st, and 30s for a 51-hour
week commencing March next year. That is a continuation of the rates now
prevailing. The workmen’s representative pressed for £2 and a 48-hour week all the
year round.

1900

The controversy relating to the maintenance of Parker’s Piece is by no means a new

one. It is several years since footballers and cricketers perceived that the
ground, both in summer and winter was not all that could be desired and each year
the feeling of dissatisfaction has become more apparent. But with the increasing
number of persons crossing and re-crossing Parker’s Piece it was impossible to keep
the cricket pitches in a perfect condition; and with regard to forbidding football
in times of frost, it was absolutely impossible to tell within a few hours whether
or not a ground would be in a fit state for play.

Tuesday 12th September

1975

What is claimed to be one of the largest haystacks seen in recent years in East
Anglia is dominating a field at Offord Darcy. The stack over 100 yards long and 20
feet tall has been assembled by farmer Frank Eayrs and is evidence of the increased
value to farmers of the formerly useless fibres. The stack is designated for
conversion into animal fodder at the new straw processing plant at Tilbrook near
Kimbolton. Up to this year it might have been burnt as unwanted corn refuse.

1950
Flags flew at half-mast in Cambridge as the University and Town mourned the death
of Jan Christiaan Smuts, scholar, soldier, statesman & Chancellor of Cambridge
University. His was a short-lived chancellorship lasting just over two years but is
rich in memories. In June 1948 thousands lined the streets to see him walk in
procession from the Senate House to Christ’s College and their hearts warmed to the
slight, sunburned figure who acknowledged their cheers. Distinguished men are
commonplace visitors to Cambridge, and often pass unnoticed; but all restraint went
overboard on this occasion and the chancellor was obviously moved by the warmth of
his reception.

1925

Newmarket Urban Council considered handing over the administration of certain

allotments to the Newmarket Allotments Association Ltd. The allotments to be handed
over are the Ditton allotments, the White Gate allotments, the Railway allotments &
the Field terrace allotments. The Association is to pay an annual rent of £190 a
year and to maintain the hedges, fences, roads and boundary stakes in as good order
& condition as now. Two entrances at the bottom of the Field Terrace road would be
stopped up which would leave additional plots of ground surplus to requirements,
but the Council may offer these for sale as building plots at some future date.

1900

Cambridge magistrates gave their decision in the cases against certain tradespeople
who had been summoned for obstructing the public footpaths by means of overhanging
blinds. A regulation had been issued by the police that sun binds must hand not
lower than six feet from the kerb. Ellen Frohock, R.R. Dawson and Alfred Hyman of
Regent Street were fined 1s. each

Wednesday 13th September

1975

Princess Anne is to put the royal seal of approval on one of Cambridge’s most
controversial schemes. She has agreed to open the multi-million pound Lion Yard
redevelopment complex in December. More than four years have been spent in its
construction. Expert critics are unhappy about the scale of the enterprise and its
relationship to the previously intimate and recently pedestrianised shopping
precinct in Petty Cury. There has also been adverse comment on the nature of the
shopping development which, because of the high rents, has made it a virtually
unattainable Shangri-La for local businesses.

1950

The Great Ouse River Catchment Board reported that reconstruction on the left bank
of the River Cam from the “Fish & Duck” to Galloping Corner, over a length of 40
chains has been commenced, This reconstruction had been necessitated by the
continued recurrence of slips aggravated by the 1947 floods.

1925

At Ely police court Albert Coulson of Stansted was summoned for driving a
locomotive at a speed over the two miles per hour limit on the highway at
Littleport. Police Sergeant Moon said he considered defendant was travelling at
eight mph, and he got on his bicycle, caught up and stopped him. The latter said he
was doing four mph and could not do eight mph. The policeman said he had seen
locomotives go even faster than that. Fined 10s

1900

The little Suffolk town of Haverhill is one of the last places in which one would
have expected a foul murder to be enacted; and yet it is from Haverhill that the
tidings come of a tragedy as revolting in its hideousness as has taken place for
many a day. A woman who recently gave birth to twins has been found lying dead,
her throat cut, and in her arms the dead bodies of her two infants, their throats
also cut. The circumstances point to the husband as the perpetrator of the vile
deed. The police gave chase & within a short time ran the wretched man to earth.
For the credit of our human nature we are ready to say that the perpetrator must
have been out of his mind, but it would be unsafe to argue that because a crime is
hideous that it was, therefore, the work of a maniac.
Thursday 14th September

1975

The Cambridge Talking News, a talking newspaper for the blind, elderly and infirm,
took over a prototype high-speed cassette copier. The machine can make two copies
of a cassette in minutes. The copies are then sent out to blind people all over the
area. The administrator at the Blantyre Home for the Blind, Mrs T.M.C. Matthews,
said the machine had been fitted with a bleep so that blind people could use it
easily.

1947

The smallest milking machine in the world has just been placed on the market by its
designers, H.E.M. (Cambridge) ltd of Ditton Walk. Production of the ‘midget milker’
follows two years of development. You can plug it into the electric light and it
will milk two cows at a time.

1925

A party of Cambridge people had a nasty experience when returning by charabanc from
a trip to Yarmouth. When about two miles from Newmarket the petrol pipe broke and
some petrol became ignited. Passengers jumped from the car which belonged to Messrs
Brown Bros of Abbey Road, Cambridge, but only slight damage was done and the only
person injured was a lady who sprained her ankle. A second car was following and
some of the passengers were transferred to this. The damaged car was patched up and
both proceeded to Cambridge.

1900

The Cambridge Omnibus Company and the Tramways Company have entered into an
arrangement whereby the Omnibus Company is to leave the whole of the trams route
free for the Tramways Company. They in their turn will withdraw all their one-horse
‘buses, thus leaving to the Omnibus Company all parts of the town not covered by
the tram lines. The arrangement comes into operation on Monday next.

Friday 15th September

1975

Cambridge’s 13th scout group officially opened its new headquarters in Romsey Town.
In little more than a year they managed to raise the £6,000 needed and get the
building constructed on the site of two old scout huts. Some 200 people watched Dr
Winifred Nott, the sister of the original Nott brothers who helped establish the
group before the first world war, cut the tape and unveil a plaque to mark the
official opening.

1950

43 flying farmers and their wives from Cambridgeshire and Huntingdonshire spent ten
crowded hours at the other side of England and still got home in time for supper.
By means of a specially chartered aerial taxi service from Marshall’s Cambridge to
Speke airport, Liverpool, they were able to witness the receiving end of the
Government’s African groundnuts scheme – the production of animal feeding stuffs
and soap. For most of them it was the first time in the air. The party had boarded
two chartered Dakotas for the journey as the guests of J. Bibby and sons, the well-
known manufacturer of cattle and poultry feeding stuffs.

1925

The East Cambridgeshire Motor Cycle and Light Car Club held their motor cycle
‘Rodeo’ at Fordham. The track was in good condition and some really exciting racing
was witnessed. The events included Balloon Bursting,, Ski-riding, Potato race, Polo
match & Egg and Spoon Race. Riding Mechanical Lizzie - this was a pole mounted on
two wheels and D. Muggleton gave a splendid exhibition of riding whilst drawn by a
motor cycle. He survived one round, but on the second he fell off, and the wheel
collapsed, to the intense merriment of the spectators.

1900

Messrs Bailey & Tebbutt of the Panton Brewery, Cambridge, have their annual support
to the harvest employees of Waterbeach who are customers of the firm. The whole
function was a great success. Those who contributed to the musical programme
included Mr P. Levitt of Waterbeach who was several times encored. Mr W. Flack on
behalf of the working men thanked the firm for the way they looked after them. Mr
Joseph Toller responding to the toast of ‘The trade of Waterbeach’ said that the
village was fairly prosperous.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 18th September

1975

There is no reason why Cambridge’s first mini roundabout should not become a
permanent feature. The roundabout at the junction of Queen’s Road with Northampton
Street came into operation yesterday morning. It is hoped this will overcome the
long tailback which has occurred in Queen’s Road since the introduction of the city
centre traffic scheme.

1950

For many of the 7,500 spectators the ‘At Home’ held at RAF station Oakington, (some
of whom wore handlebar moustaches and ex-service ties), probably brought back
memories of wartime experiences. Spectators poured in by bus, car and bicycle and
some even walked or hitch-hiked. Small boys sat in the pilot’s seat of the Prime
Minister’s personal aircraft and imagined themselves airmen. The ‘beating-up’ of
the aerodrome by a Meteor jet fighter from Waterbeach was probably the biggest
thrill of the afternoon.

1925

The danger arising from coins being thrown on to a theatre stage was emphasised
when a man was fined £1 for damaging an electric bulb in the New Theatre. The bulb
was splintered and flying glass might have gone into the eyes of the artistes and
cause serious injury. Defendant said he threw two halfpennies to a comedian because
he did not like the song he was singing. He did not know a bulb was broken.

1900

Owing to the absence of Argentine cattle from the English markets owing to foot and
mouth disease the Ipswich Butcher’s Association has notified an increase of a penny
per lb in the price of beef and mutton. In Cambridge prime beef is fetching from 7s
6d to 8s. 6d. per stone. Pork is making a good price now at 7s per stone, but
feeding stuffs are much dearer than they were and people won’t run the risk of
fattening pigs unless they are sure of a profit.

Tuesday 19th September

1975

Over 25 years of argument, several million pounds of ratepayers’ money and three
years of toil what will we get? The Lion Yard development. On the first floor is a
modest entrance to a building that Cambridge has desperately needed for many years
… the new library. It has three floors. The top will be used for housing the
Cambridgeshire Collection. On the first floor is a children’s’ room where young
readers can comfortably browse through their selection. The building bears about as
much comparison with the old Wheeler Street library as Buckingham Palace does with
the Black Hole of Calcutta

1950

The old barn at Duxford Grange farm was the scene of a happy gathering when Mr
Harry Walston, prospective Labour candidate for Cambridgeshire, and of Thriplow
Farms Ltd, invited the farm workers to a harvest supper. This was the fourth
occasion it has been held, and a 220 lb pig had been killed to help to feed the
company of about 100.

1925

Cambridge Town Council will consider a report as to the sale of houses to persons
having little or no capital. Purchasers would pay a weekly sum, being more than the
normal rent and the house would be conveyed to him when he had paid an amount equal
to the difference between the cost and the mortgage. The weekly rent for a three-
bedroomed house, sale price £600 would be 11s. If the purchaser paid 16s a week the
property could be transferred and the mortgage executed after two years.

1900

An inquest was held at Dry Drayton on the body of a seven-year old girl. Her
brother said she had been sent to the pond to fetch some water. She was splashing
him when she fell on to her face in the water & went under. Two men got her out,
but she was dead. It was the only water supply for nearby houses and it was
customary to send children to fetch it. The jury returned a verdict of accidental
death.

Wednesday 20th September

1975

A life sized mythological figure in bronze, the work of British sculptor Mr Michael
Ayrton will be erected on the Lion Yard site. The semi-abstract sculpture
represents Tarlos, the legendary man of bronze who was given to Mynos, ruler of
Crete to defend the island. The leader of the city council, Peter Wright said: “No
doubt some will like it and some will not”

1950

The Ely beet sugar factory begins this season’s campaign and over the greater part
of the area from which beet are drawn heavy yields are anticipated, which may even
constitute a record for the factory. In view of the very large tonnage of sugar
beet to be handled, it is felt imperative to make the earliest possible start to
afford growers every opportunity of keeping up to date with their early deliveries,
reducing the risk of losses due to frost and other seasonable conditions.

1925

Two memorials of former members of the congregation were unveiled at St Barnabas

church. The first was a tablet in memory of Mr William Saint. There were several
sacred buildings in Cambridge which spoke of his skill and work. A stained glass
window was dedicated to James Ringe who rose to the rank of express engine driver
on the passenger train from Cambridge to York. It was the work of Messrs McLean-
Leach & son.

1900

Chrishall is a quiet village between Royston and Saffron Walden. It is the custom,
when men have finished harvest upon the farms, to be awarded ‘largesse money’ which
they usually employ for the purpose of a friendly horkey between themselves. A
labourer and his friends made the Gate beerhouse their rendezvous, taking
possession of the tap room. One of their number purchased an accordion and for a
time all went well with them. Then ensued the tragedy that resulted in the death of
a shepherd.

Thursday 21st September

1975

The failure of many back garden vegetable plots this summer is believed to be the
reason for the increasing number of thefts of produce from farms. The thieves are
stealing not only produce which has been harvested. Some of them are going into the
fields at night to pick it for themselves. Recent reports include potatoes dug up
and stolen overnight and several rows of runner beans stripped bare. Far more
people have been trying to cut their housekeeping bills by planting vegetables in
their gardens, and many have brought deep freezers hoping to fill them with their
own produce. But this year’s long drought has resulted in many back garden crops
failing completely.

1950

Roger Keith Woollard of Mill Road, Cambridge, - eight years old – is surely
Cambridge’s youngest aircraft recognition expert. You can see him any Sunday up at
Cambridge airport noting down numbers and types of aircraft flying there with the
same enthusiasm that some youngsters collect car or engine numbers. I asked him
what he did if an aircraft arrived which he could not identify. “I go and ask the
duty pilot what it is”, he said. His devotion to this hobby deserves recognition, I
would suggest by the appointment as the official mascot of Marshall’s airport

1925

Mr Taylor, employed by Messrs Pamplin Bros. of Cherry Hinton as a steam roller

driver told the court he stopped the roller and living van near Bartlow cross-roads
for the night. He left the van locked. In the van was half a pound of cooked ham,
four eggs, half a pound of butter and a quarter pound of Brooke Bond’s tea. Next
morning the door had been broken open and the provisions taken.

1900
Newmarket rural council heard that at Bottisham the difficulty had been to get at
an adequate supply of water in the village, as the geological formation was against
it. The wells that had been dug along a part of the village were simply cesspools,
as they were dug into the chalk marl into which the sewage and surface water ran
and remained. The marl was not a water-bearing strata and water might lay deep. The
well at the police station, for example, was 224 feet deep and cost £101 to sink.

Friday 22nd September

1975

A coffin-stool – one of the stools on which coffins used to be rested during a

funeral service has disappeared from Stapleford church. “They are much sought after
as furnishings for people’s houses these days”, said the vicar, the Rev C.A.
Barber. “We haven’t any proof that it has been stolen – it might just have been
borrowed”, he said

1950

Television viewers in De Freville district found themselves “looking in” to an

extra programme after the BBC transmission had finished. An explanation from the
Chairman of Pye Ltd, “we were televising at the works on a closed-circuit and there
was a leaky cable”, he said. A viewer said, “We saw Annette Mills and her puppet
kitten doing some washing, Dickie Murdock also appeared as did Jack and Daphne
Barker. There was some advertising matter including a reference to the Cambridge
Chamber of Commerce. The transmission came from a transmitter the Pye Company was
testing out prior to ending it to an exhibition in Berlin.

1925

Sturton Street Methodist church hall was packed when Mr W.J. Parr gave an
interesting talk upon “Memories”. 50 years back Sturton Town was a new district of
Cambridge. He remembered having to wade through water and mud ankle deep, and being
often carried over the roads by his parents. He reminisced about the singing and
parading of the streets by the Primitives, then known as ‘Ranters’ who went out
singing ‘Hark! the Gospel news!’ He urged the young men and women to carry on and
in the coming 50 years get a larger church, which they greatly needed.

1900

There was no one to blame for the accident whereby a farm labourer met his death at
Quy this week. The man was sitting on a horse’s back; it took fright at the sight
of a traction engine and he was thrown from it. The noteworthy thing is that this
farm labourer was 77 years of age. It is all to the honour of the man that he kept
on doing his farm labourer’s work rather than become a burden upon others. But the
social conditions under which men of nearly 80 are made to work in the road and the
field are not ideal.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 25th September

1975

Cambridge garage chiefs are divided on the petrol retailers’ call for the
Government to peg the price of a gallon. Some say it is essential to stop the “mad
price war” – others say it simply wouldn’t work. One of the smaller garages that
has suffered badly since the price war started is the Short Street Service Station
where sales had recently dropped by 35%. A random check on the price of a 4-star
petrol per gallon in Cambridge garages showed Sainsburys 63p., Holland Motors 68p,
Short Street Service Station & Ted Salisbury 73p

1950

Several thousand spectators braved Sunday’s rain to watch the scramble at

Arrington. Cambridge Centaur Motor Cycle Club, rounded off the season by winning
most events. Mud and slippery grass added to the hazard of the course set on two
steeply sloping fields and including tortuous gullies. Once again B.G. Stonebridge
delighted the crowd with his superlative riding, his fellow Centaur H.D. Halsey
proving a game runner-up

1925

Coun Porter said councillors might not realise what an old crock the ferry over the
Cam at Chesterton was. When one went over in rough weather the water had to be
baled out and the sides of the ferry shook. At the time of the fair the ferryman
would not risk taking over a crowd of people because it was so dangerous. Children
were taking a very great risk in using the ferry and the council taking the
greatest risk of all in not taking steps to prevent somebody being drowned. The
ferry was obsolete, it should be condemned at once and done away with.

1900
There is that about the re-opening of the Cambridge Theatre after the ‘Long’ which
is unique. In other towns a re-opening night is a great night. In the stalls and
circle are seen the ladies, bright and brilliant; and an array of men in dress
suits. In the pit are the ‘pitties; in the galleries the ‘gods’. Not so at the New
Theatre when the doors are reopened. The stalls are occupied by those who will in a
week or two be sitting in a lowlier part of the Theatre and so on right through the
house. But few other towns have long vacations. A fortnight’s time and there will
be a normal theatre aspect.

Tuesday 26th September

1975

Nine heifers escaped from Midsummer Common, Cambridge, this morning and used the
Four Lamps Roundabout as a refuge from rush-hour traffic. Police kept an eye on
them until the city pindar, Mr Harry Merton, arrived to open a gate to the common.
Motorists were then treated to the sight of several men in blue and a passing
school crossing keeper waving their arms and moving the cattle, cowboy style. The
cows’ owner thought they had squeezed through the common’s bicycle barriers

1950

The news that Mr Douglas Nicholes is disposing of his well-known drapery and
outfitting business in Mill Road will be received with regret by local people who
admire the pioneer spirit and enterprise of a family concern. There are still
people who can remember the early days of what was then a small lock-up shop
surrounded by fields – known as Feke’s Meadows - on both sides of the roads on the
town side. It is 68 years since Mr W.D. Nicholes founded the business. In those
early days they were the largest wholesalers of foreign goods in East Anglia. The
retail side was developed later and menswear has always been a speciality.

1925
The great annual rat hunt week, organised by the Ministry of Agriculture, will take
place in November. Already brigades of Boy Scouts have been enlisted for this great
war. Rats are more numerous this year, having returned to their winter quarters in
the towns earlier than usual owing to the cold snap and early harvesting.

1900

The village of Warboys was devastated by fire caused by three boys playing with
matchsticks in a stackyard. The dry straw was quickly in a blaze, the farmhouse
soon involved and fanned by a strong breeze two other farmsteads were also
destroyed. The sparks ignited the thatch of some cottages in the High Street and a
whole row were burned down, the fire spreading to another row on the opposite side
of the street. A brewery and cycle store were also burnt out and great
consternation caused by the explosion of a large quantity of gunpowder, several of
the firemen being blown off their feet.

Wednesday 27th September

1975

The fire risk wards at Chesterton Hospital have been drawn directly to the
attention of the Health Minister, Dr David Owen, by the city MP, Mr David Lane. He
expressed concern over the Hospital’s Harston and Hardwick wards where 36 elderly
patients are housed in cramped conditions. Both wards are 130 years old and were
condemned more than two years ago as fire risks, but because of lack of cash
nothing has been done to replace them

1950

The third polio victim in Huntingdonshire this year has died in an Iron Lung. He
was an Engineer at Brampton RAF Station. 200 yards from where he lived is home of
another man who is progressing satisfactorily in Cambridge Isolation Hospital
infected with polio. A Godmanchester man died in Middlesex Isolation Hospital last
Friday. This was within two days of contracting the disease.

1925

Five donkeys and two horses composed Stourbridge Horse Fair. Year by year this once
famous animal sale had dwindled. Twenty years ago there were about 100 animals
brought to the Fair. As far as the main fair is concerned there are a few more
booths than there were last year. The licence allows the Fair to last six weeks.
Actually it goes on for three days.

1900

At Newmarket Licensing Session an application was made for a licence for a new
hotel which it was proposed to erect in close contiguity to the new station. When
last the application was made the justices took objection to the plans which now
provided for 14 bedrooms instead of eight. It would be in the Georgian style,
similar to Colonel McCalmont’s house at Cheveley Park. Mr Bankes-Ashton said they
had what on paper looked like a very fine building, but justices would remember
that the same company put in plans for the Warren Hill Hotel, which also looked
fine on paper, but they did not keep to those plans after a licence had been
granted
Thursday 28th September

1975

The secretary of the Newmarket Stablelads’ TGWU branch, Mr Harry Foley, retires
after a lifetime in the racing industry. In a few days time he will be 82 – but the
little man who has been a familiar figure in Newmarket for 50 years is still full
of fighting spirit. In defiance of his age, he fought alongside the pickets in the
three-month-long stablelads strike.

1950

The ‘Twelve Men of Caldecote’ – members of the village’s Smallholders Defence

Association - have decided to fence off 40 acres of land held by members, in
protest against the Ministry of Agriculture’s decision to acquire the holdings
compulsorily and have them farmed as part of a large block. “We have had notice
that the tenancies terminate on Saturday, but we intend to carry on as we have done
in the past, cultivating the holdings successfully”, a member said.

1925

The problem of safety first in the Cambridge streets was addressed by the
University Vice-Chancellor. “The motor habit, when it becomes an obsession, induces
a state of mind out of harmony with the best traditions of Cambridge. The alarming
increase in the number of motor vehicles called for some legislation and
regulations prohibiting the use of motor vehicles by undergraduates in their first
year have now been approved. Total prohibition may become a necessity but I prefer
to think so drastic an act may be rendered unnecessary by loyal acceptance of the
reasonable restrictions which have been sanctioned”.

1900

Cambridge Library Committee state that during the past year the institution has
been used by a larger number of persons than before. The war in South Africa
necessitated a larger supply of newspapers, war maps and a service of telegrams.
Every hour of the day there was a constant stream of visitors & during two weeks in
February the reading rooms were visited by more than 57,898 persons

Friday 29th September

1975

Standards of service in Cambridge Libraries have fallen since their administration

was taken over by the County Council last year, City Councillors claimed. They were
reminded of the decision to allow the city’s ancient records to be housed in the
County Archivist’s’ Department at Shire Hall. Counc Warren said: “It would have
been even more convenient for the records to have been placed in the new library in
the Lion Yard as we had intended in the first place”.

1950

Built from local materials by local labour, a delightful pair of cottages recently
completed in High Street, Lode, are in striking contrast to many modern houses.
They were erected for Lord Fairhaven, whose desire was that they should be in
keeping with the characteristics of the village. They are of colour-washed Burwell
bricks & thatched with straw from his farm
1925
Chesterton council heard of overcrowding in Great Wilbraham. In one instance a man
was living with his wife and 12 children in a house containing one bedroom. In the
same yard was a house of four rooms in which there were generally 16 people
sleeping. The owner said the overcrowding occurred subsequent to the letting of the
houses and under present tenancy laws it was impossible to get rid of the occupiers
without providing other accommodation for them

1900

Cambridge magistrates received a petition against renewal of the licence of the

Windmill public house in Mill Road. Frederick Hodson considered the neighbourhood
was overcrowded with them. Mr Papworth said he had visited the house on many
occasions but never seen more than two people at the bar at a time. Freeman & Sons,
brewers and owners said the house was in a bad state and had been closed for
repairs, not because there was no trade. They had no right to take away the licence
even if the tenant only sold a barrel of beer a week. Albert Brand, the new tenant
said business had trebled, 60 people patronised the house every day and last
Saturday he had upwards of 100 customers. The licence was not renewed

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 2nd October

1975

Number 10 Downing Street, Cambridge, the new Norwich Union Building has been
‘topped out’. It replaces the former building on the corner of St Andrew’s Street.
There were some protests about the loss of the old buildings but planning
permission was eventually given after the Royal Fine Art Commission approved the
designs.

1950

The disastrous effects of the weather upon agriculture warrant a return to wartime
emergency conditions Coun Greenslade told Cambridgeshire Education Committee. “We
have had a lot of rain which has affected the agricultural position tremendously.
This season has been a near disaster. We haven't finished the harvest yet and when
we shall get to the potatoes I don’t know. I beg that children can be permitted to
be employed for picking up potatoes”.

1925

The ceremony of laying the foundation stone of the new Evangelical Free Church at
Swaffham Bulbeck was performed. Four big stones were laid and a number of bricks,
the donors having each given a guinea towards the church fund. The site was given
ten years ago and it is estimated the church will cost £850. Captain Tinton made a
plea for the retaining of the mission hall, little would be got for it if it were
sold and it might be utilised as a social amusement institute for young men. Mr
Selby said that it was in 1900 that the Free Church Wardens’ Society was formed
with the object of providing a building for Nonconformists to worship in and when
the building was opened it is hoped all the debt may be cleared off.

1900
The inaugural dinner of the recently-formed association of Cambridge dairymen took
place at the Lion Hotel. Sometime ago it was thought to be a good thing if all the
brother tradesmen could unite and put themselves on more friendly terms than
perhaps some of them had been in the past. It gave them the means of settling
their grievances. No man could retail milk at threepence a quart and live on it.
That was one thing they would have to grapple with.

Tuesday 3rd October

1975

Cambridge is desperately short of rented accommodation and within 48 hours, as

students join those already searching in vain for somewhere to live, the situation
is likely to deteriorate. Already landlords advertising property to let are
embarrassed and often upset by the number of applicants who plead for a room. One
landlord ran an advertisement in this newspaper and in three days received around
100 applications for the flat. A Sutton man advertised one to let at £65 a month
and in three days received 60 replies.

1950

Waterbeach and Upwood are amongst airfields which are “warming up” in preparation
for the start of the biggest air exercise since the war. It has been designed to
test the control of air defence operations. Cambridge members of the Royal Observer
Corps will man the operations room in the Newmarket Road headquarters and posts
throughout the countryside. Every aircraft passing over the county will be plotted,
and the information passed to the RAF.

1925

The new Harvey Goodwin Home for Boys which has been erected at St Luke’s Park,
Victoria Road, Cambridge under the auspices of the Church of England Society for
Providing Homes for Children (Waifs and Strays) was formally opened. The house is a
fine, red brick building, capable of housing 35 boys and stands on a splendid site,
and within its own grounds. The Bishop of Ely spoke of the work of sending boys
from these homes to the Dominions under proper supervision.

1900

The news of the death of the Master of Peterhouse, Dr James Porter, has come as a
blow to all conversant with his part in the public life of Cambridge. The Town
Council has been much strengthened by the accession of University members and no
councillor has been more keenly interested in every detail of public business. He
recognised very clearly that the interests of the University and town are one and
acted upon it. It was noteworthy than when subjects that one might have considered
hardly worth the attention of University members were under consideration Dr Porter
would get up and speak with full knowledge.

Wednesday 4th October

1975

The builders of Huntingdon bypass are helping experts to unravel the mystery of a
centuries-old massacre in the town. Part of the site of a Norman castle at Castle
Hill is to be dug out. The Archaeological Field Officer, Miss Alison Taylor, began
work on the site and almost immediately uncovered human remains. ‘It is all very
mysterious. The remains are placed very haphazardly, which seems to suggest some
sort of massacre occurred hundreds of years ago”, she said

1950

Into a schoolroom at Childerley Gate squeezed 150 indignant smallholders meeting in

protest against the land acquisitioning policies of the Ministry of Agriculture.
They refuted claims that smallholders could not profitably and economically use
their land and get the fullest from it. Mr G. Martin of Arrington said: “Never
before have the people of England dreaded the knock of the postman, fearing the
loss of their holdings”. Mr G. Mealing of Monkfields said: “We are living in dread
of the agricultural Gestapo – it is not constitutional”

1925

In October when summer time is over, people turn again to books, and now there is a
library in every village the population of rural Cambridgeshire need not be at a
loss for occupation, recreation and means of improvement during the winter
evenings. Borrowers will be glad to learn that many additions have been made. The
well-stocked agricultural and horticultural section has been enriched and books on
basketry, rush and straw works, hat-making and other home crafts added. Radio
enthusiasts have been catered for and there are works dealing with the construction
of receiving sets. A large number of books have recently been withdrawn from
circulation as a result of careless handling by readers.

1900

At the meeting at Linton to revise the voters’ lists Mr Holttum objected to the
name of Henry Webb in respect of a farm at West Wickham. Mr Hutt said the farm had
been occupied by members of the Webb family for 146 years. Last Michaelmas the
father wanted to give up the farm and the landlord accepted the son as tenant, but
he stipulated that as long as Mr Webb sen. lived he should live in the house,
thinking it a pity the old gentleman should turn out of the farm where he had
resided for 46 years.

Thursday 5th October

1975

Hop on a bus in Doncaster and it will cost 4p to travel 3½ miles. In Cambridge a

similar journey is priced at a staggering 17p. And if Eastern Counties get their
way when they go before the Traffic Commissioners the cost will be 19p. Fares for a
one-mile journey have risen from 6p in 1974 to 9p today.

1950

My attention was attracted the other day by a new notice board outside Cambridge
police station. It displays a large map of Cambridge. Main roads are clearly marked
in colour and a footnote states that further information may be obtained from the
police station inquiry office. This is to my knowledge the only public ‘guide’ in
the town at the moment and it will be particularly useful to visitors.

1925
A Whittlesford man was seriously injured in a motor cycle accident. He was driving
his machine on the Huntingdon Road towards Cambridge with two girls on the pillion
seat when, near the Madingley turning, he ran into a cow which, with several
others, was on the road. The motor cycle overturned and the passengers thrown from
the machine. The Borough Police ambulance was summoned and the man and the two
girls (who had luckily escaped with cuts about the knees) were taken to
Addenbrooke’s Hospital where it was ascertained that the man was suffering from a
fracture at the base of the skull.

1900
Sir – I see that several shareholders of the Tramways Company suggest that small
buses only should be allowed to run between Cherry Hinton and the Market. If it
means that we are to fold and squeeze ourselves up like figs into the wretched
boxes that we hoped had long since been turned into firewood the company has
reckoned without their hosts. We have had enough of the stuffy snail-paced coffins
and if the company can do no better we are ready to start a couple of rattling good
two-horse buses of our own – G. Bland.

Friday 6th October

1975

The Conservatives held the Trumpington Division seat in yesterday’s County Council
by-election. Now the victor, Mrs Jane Brookes, a Cambridge housewife, says that she
is “ready for anything” the council has to offer her. She added: “I am interested
in people and that is what counts”

1950

John Lowe was the first boy to go from Cambridge to Australia under the ‘Big
Brother’ movement. His mother said “He sailed in 1949, the voyage took five weeks
and he went to a training farm near Sidney and then up into the Bush. He has banked
£100 in a year and the farmer is very good to him. He has been able to do several
jobs for them and kills one sheep a fortnight for their own consumption”,

1925
An inquest was held at Soham on the body of a boy aged 3½ who was killed by being
run over by a threshing machine. The father said he was a healthy child and had
often been with them in the yard and roadway when they were working. He was told an
accident had happened and saw his boy lying in the road with his feet towards the
grass and his head towards the crown of the road. His little head was crushed flat.
The jury agreed that boys were very troublesome and would not keep away from
engines. The only way was to give them a touch of the whip, but that would cause
trouble with the parents. The jury handed their fees to the father of the deceased
lad.

1900

Special services were held at Grantchester when the occasion was taken to dedicate
the new stained glass window that has been presented to the church by the Rev Dr
Streane, the vicar. The new window, at the east end of the church, has been erected
by Messrs Heaton, Butler & Bayne of London, and is of beautiful design. It was a
perpetual reminder of a life of faithful service and of work for God.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 9th October

1975

Four people who helped police to end the Cambridge Rapist’s reign of terror and the
detective who made the arrest share the £1,500 reward offered by the CEN and two
businessmen. They each played a significant part in the arrest which led to the
conviction of the rapist who jailed for life at Norwich Crown Court for the
Cambridge rapes and other attacks on girls.

1950

Girls in their teens, middle aged women and some in their sixties mingled together
at a jubilee reunion of the Cambridgeshire High School for Girls. For many it was
their first visit to the new school in Long Road. Their own memories took them back
to the Drill Hall in East Road, where the school began, or to the Collier Road
premises, now the Technical College and School of Art. The happy times spent there
were recalled often during the evening.

1925

A Cambridge man who has been at one time or another general labourer, cook, dock
labourer, railway worker, amusement caterer, ice-cream vendor, toy retailer, fish
merchant, wholesale biscuit dealer and greengrocer, appeared for his public
examination in bankruptcy at Cambridge. He had come to Cambridge in 1916 and
started an “amusement arcade” in Mill Road. The amusements consisted of automatic
machines, darts, games etc. He used to go round public houses with his automatic
machines, half the profits were to go to the pub and half to himself. Soon after he
opened business the police issued a summons against him and he scrapped four or
five gaming machines.

1900

Two years ago the ‘Cambridge Gazette’ was brought into being. Its sponsors made a
great fuss about it. At last, they said, Cambridge has got a daily newspaper that
is worthy of it – an eight page paper with innumerable editions, up to date in
every respect. A halfpenny weekly newspaper was also started with a loss on every
copy sold. Not only were they bound to fail, but they deserved to fail – and they
have failed. The CDN has now beaten off two attacks and our regret is that we
cannot say of the second failure as we did in 1892 of the first – that it was a
highly respectable sheet.

Tuesday 10th October

1975

The Alley Boutique is now open in new and spacious premises in the Lion Yard
arcade. Mr Ian Burns said: “Customers are flocking in, but we have plenty of room
for expansion and we hope to introduce a mezzanine floor. We were the first
boutique in Cambridge, opening in Falcon Yard ten years ago. We get customers of 12
and up to 60 years of age, but most are young”. The Boutique sells almost any
clothing from a jumper to a fur coat.

1950

Bud Flanagan and members of the famous Crazy Gang formed a “guard of honour” at the
wedding of Miss Elizabeth Jones and Mr John Mitchell Ridley-Foster at Newmarket.
Bud was responsible for the gang’s appearance. Following his lead the Gang appeared
in battered top hats and dress suits that were ripped and torn and had obviously
seen better days. A large crowd waited outside the church, where the Crazy Gang
welcomed the couple as they came out after the ceremony with an archway of silver-
topped canes.

1925

It is reported from Oxford that the Oxford trousers are rapidly passing, and that
plus fours are to reign in their stead. According to a leading tailor they will be
in brown shades of Scotch and Shetland tweeds, with shirts, collars stockings and
pullover jumpers to harmonise. The day of the vividly coloured jumper is over. The
hard felt black hat is also regaining popularity. There have been inquiries for
brown bowlers, and they may return to favour

1900

Violent hostilities characterised the election meeting at Cottenham. For upwards of

an hour the burly youths began to assemble in the precincts of the schoolroom. The
room was soon filled and the booing and yelling of the mob was simply deafening.
The arrival of Sir Robert Fitzgerald was a signal for groans and hisses. They
seized his coat, which they tore, knocked off his hat and hustled him in all
directions. He took refuge in the house of Mr J.M. Gould and finally escaped about
an hour later

Wednesday 11th October

1975

The wretched quality of this year’s potato harvest was graphically demonstrated at
Rampton parish church. The harvest festival vegetable display did not include a
single spud – just one pack of Instant Mash. I hope the Almighty takes the hint –
Christopher South

1950

The crew of 11 of a USAAF B50 Super Fortress escaped when it crash-landed in flames
at Mildenhall last night. The aircraft was returning from a routine flight and had
one engine feathered. The right wing tip caught the runway and the external petrol
tank burst into flames. The aircraft slid, burning furiously, for 500 yards but the
crew scrambled to safety and were uninjured. The aircraft was a total loss

1925

A crowd of 500 farmers watched with interest a demonstration of sugar beet lifters
at the College Farm, Duxford. Altogether there were 10 lifters and as quite a
number of growers had not made up their minds as to which lifter they were going to
purchase the opportunity of inspecting various machines materially assisted them in
making their choice.

1900
Sir W. Cuthbert-Quilter MP was announced to speak at Castle Camps and, a noisy
meeting being anticipated, a policeman was stationed at the entrance so as to allow
only electors into the building. On arrival he was received with loud hissing and
booing. He said: ‘I have come 100 miles today to see you’. (Hissing and ‘Go back
another hundred’). He attempted to address the meeting, but being frequently
interrupted asked ‘Will you hear me? A voice: ‘We have heard such a lot of rubbish,
we want to hear some plain truth now’. ‘You will get that from me’. ‘You will be
the first one who has told the truth then’
Thursday 12th October

1975

Complaints have been made about the growing number of large container type vehicles
using Waterbeach and Horningsea as a means of bypassing congested Cambridge
streets. But the county surveyor pointed out that the building of the Northern By-
pass would do away with the problems now being caused in the narrow winding village
streets.

1950

The Vicar of Great St Mary’s church, Cambridge, said: “There are fewer priests
today and they are harassed by financial worries that are crippling to the
spiritual life. They are often forced to live in large and unsuitable houses. They
cannot afford a domestic help and become expert in washing up and keeping the
garden tidy when they should be out in the parish dealing with the souls of men.
There are many parsons who, in their old age, can only keep body and soul together
with any decency because of the extraordinary kindness and generosity of their
poorest parishioners”

1925

A remarkable demonstration in scientific shoe-fitting is being conducted in

Cambridge by Messrs Faulkner and Son, the high-class bootmakers. Gentlemen are
invited to have their feet examined by the X-ray pedoscope to determine which of
the 54 distinct sizes they require. Gentlemen who do not require shoes at the
moment are invited to have their pedal extremities X-rayed so that their size can
be registered for future use.

1900

Just a week ago publication of the ‘Cambridge Gazette’ was suspended. This morning
an extraordinary meeting of shareholders was held to consider that the company
should be wound-up voluntarily. The Secretary of the company was not present and it
was stated that he had gone to Manchester. The bank overdraft was stated to be
£2,200 and the company was hopelessly beyond retrievement. The affairs are to be
wound up as speedily as possible.

Friday 13th October

1975

Denver Slice, one of the great monuments of fenland engineering and a vital control
point in the flood threats of the past, could soon be something of a white
elephant. Its fate hinges on an investigation being carried out into the level of
silt build-up in the Great Ouse river basin which the sluice may have limited power
to control. The river systems increasing use for fresh water supplies through
Grafham Water, the Ely-Essex water transfer project and proposals to regulate
groundwater levels in the chalkland had reduced river flows and opened the
possibility of silt coming in from the Wash.
1950

Strong pleas by the county agricultural executive committee and the NFU have
resulted in permission being granted for Cambridgeshire school children to assist
in the potato harvest. Exemption from school attendance will be extended only to
children over 14, who must be physically fit and whose parents must give consent.
The performance of agricultural work other than potato lifting is prohibited.

1925

The principal item dealt with by the County Education Committee was the decision to
recommend the scheme for a village college at Sawston. Six villages are catered for
in various ways and the provision of a new building would cost no more than the
patching up of the existing of the old one. The senior school would provide for 200
boys and girls with rooms for instruction in practical subjects (woodwork,
metalwork, cookery, laundry and housewifery, including mothercraft)

1900

The news of the Conservative victory in East Cambs was received at Ely with
unbounded jubilation by wearers of the pink favours. As night approached there was
a good deal of movement in the streets. At 9 o’clock a procession started led by Mr
J. Newstead on horseback, who dressed in khaki and wore his medals, then came
Peterborough Band, Holy Trinity drum & fife band, men on horseback bedecked with
pink ribbons, decorated bicycles and numerous carriages. Fireworks were discharged
in the street to the accompaniment of cheers.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 16th October 1975

When the new Cambridge Central Library opens in Lion Yard it will have some of the
most up-to-date individual listening booths in the country in its gramophone record
section. But the booths will remain unused for the time being – because the economy
conscious County Council cannot afford the £2,000 needed to equip them with
cassette tapes. The booths would have enabled music lovers to listen individually
to various recordings of music so they could decide which ones to choose. They
would keep down noise levels and prevent disturbance to other library uses.

1950

Motorists in the vicinity of Baldock and Royston are going to miss an old
acquaintance – Mr George Beale, the A.A. patrol with the longest service who
retired from duty last week. He started in 1905 and remembers all traffic being
cleared from the road to Newmarket to give King Edward VII a clear run to the races
in 1908. One Sunday morning in 1924 he stopped a car and asked the two Cambridge
undergraduates inside to warn the next patrol along the road that police were
active. It was not until they were on their way that he found out that one of them
was the present King.

1925

Speaking at the dance organised by the National Fascisti at Cambridge its President
made an appeal for more University members of the party. It was not an organisation
of hooligans but advocated that this country should be ruled entirely by those of
British birth and British descent and not by aliens. They were not prepared to
allow Jews to join. They had the courage of their convictions and were prepared, if
necessary, to meet force by force. The dance was an unqualified success. There were
close on 300 present.

1900

A cold windy day is scarcely an ideal time to hold a Friendly Societies’ Parade and
an open-air service. Cottenham Society however delayed their annual parade until
Sunday, the day preceding the village feast, and as could be expected, the
attendance suffered. Cottenham sets a good example to other villages in the way of
raising funds for Addenbrooke’s Hospital

Tuesday 17th October

1975

The final chapter in the history of the long-established Ely boat-building firm,
Appleyard Lincoln, was played out when more than 1,700 items were put up for
auction. They went into liquidation earlier this year after being hard hit by VAT
and lack of orders. Among the lots on sale were three motor cruisers still under
construction

1950

For the past half century Miss Minnie Pate, director of the University Typewriting
Office in Trinity Street has been serving the University and its scholars. And now
the University is acknowledging the value of her services by conferring upon her
the distinction of an honorary degree. She was one of the first typists in
Cambridge and taught herself on one of the first typewriters ever to be seen here –
which is still kept in her offices.

1925

The Ely Beet Sugar Factory was officially opened by the Minister of Agriculture. It
is about a year since activities in connection with the erection of the factory
commenced. Gradually large tracts of arable and pasture land have disappeared
beneath the industry of the contractors and today there are well over two acres of
buildings on a site of 66 acres. The average number of men employed in building
operations had been nearly 1,000 and the wages bill alone had amounted to £100,000.
During the factory campaign now commencing they would employ about 500 men.

1900

Three cases of typhoid have occurred at Exning. The first was in a house in the
Malting Yard, the second was of a person who had called at the house where the
original outbreak occurred, and the third case was next door. The water from a well
had been analysed and ought not to be used for drinking purposes if better could be
obtained. The Waterworks main passed the door and a connection should be made for a
supply. The water could be purified by boiling but poor people have not got the
time and coal is too dear for that. The sanitation in the house was in a dreadful
state and the place quite unfit for habitation.

Wednesday 18th October

1975

Never had the cherubs on top of the marble columns looked down on a scene of such
noise and commotion. For years they have held sway over an atmosphere of dignified
hush in the library in Wheeler Street, Cambridge. But all that changed when removal
men dismantled bookcases and piled thousands of books into crates ready to go to
the ultra-modern library in Lion Yard. As men stripped away its contents the room
with its faded splendour and peeling yellow paint looked remarkably small. It was
never easy to reach the top or bottom shelves of the tall bookcases. Anyone bold
enough to crouch down and survey the low shelf inevitably collided with some other
borrower standing behind.

1950

A century of public libraries is celebrated with an exhibition in the Guildhall. A

most striking feature is the stand showing ten great volumes of The Times together
with 15 small boxes which house the same record of the newspaper, but on film. With
children’s books is exhibited Mr J.W. Franklin’s model electric railway engine,
which will be worked for the benefit of juvenile visitors.

1925

The handsome village hall which has been erected by the people of Little Shelford
as part of their memorial to the men and women who served in the Great War was
opened in the presence of a fairly large company. It has seating accommodation for
over 300 persons. A stage has been provided for plays and behind is an operating
box so that cinema shows can be given. A kitchen, dressing room etc are also
attached. The hall was a record of the great united effort made by everybody in the
village, men and women, young and old, for King and Country & was inspired by the
same spirit of unity that had won the war.

1900

Cambridge town council considered the position of town crier. Mr Campkin said the
office was a relic of Bumbledon and could well be dispensed with. They had outlived
the town crier as they had the Bedell. Alderman Spalding thought it a great pity to
get rid of these old offices. The crier preceded the Mayor to church five times a
year, went to meet the judges three times, attending the quarter sessions and
licensing sessions and made in all sixteen appearances during the year. The salary
was £20 per annum.

Thursday 19th October

1975

Cambridge desperately needs cheap accommodation for dossers, a Cambridge police

commander claimed. This was preferable to the free accommodation once provided by
Cambridge Night Shelter whose facilities, he felt, only served to aggravate the
city’s vagrancy problem that had grown in the past five years. “I have to ask
whether life has not been made too easy for alcoholic dossers in Cambridge. Aren’t
we in fact encouraging them to become what they are by giving money and a place to
stay when they need it?” he asked.

1950

Cambridge housing committee recommends the installation of television sets should

not be allowed at Donkey common, as it would not be advisable to erect aerials on
the roof of the huts. If erected independently they would have to be supported by
guy-ropes which might prove a nuisance to other tenants and a danger to children.

1925

During the last few days undergraduates have been busy taking out licences for
motor cars and motor cycles under the new regulations made with a view to
decreasing the traffic in our narrow streets. Undergraduates are not allowed to use
any motor vehicle before 12.30 in the morning or after 8.30 at night. An amusing
rumour is that proctors are to patrol the streets in a motor car, followed by
‘bulldogs’ on motor cycles, but there is no necessity for such ‘flying squad’
methods as garages are to report any undergraduate who has his car out during the
prohibited period.

1900

An appeal was heard against the refusal to grant a licence to the Windmill public
house in Mill Road, Cambridge. It had good stabling and in fact was the only public
house with stabling. It had been licensed since 1835 and had been thoroughly
renovated. It was a labourer’s house in a neighbourhood of labourers. A petition
signed by 112 residents was opposed to the licence but another signed by 230 was in
favour. The decision was reversed and the licence renewed.

Friday 20th October

1975

A hunt begins to find former women dentists living in the area. If they can be
persuaded to come back into the profession they may save dental services form
imminent collapse. Health chiefs fear that unless the women are found quickly, an
already serious shortage of dentists could become critical

1950

Coun. Mrs Henn said the majority of old couples were willing to move into smaller
accommodation to make room for larger families. But there are a very few who are so
selfish and anti-social that they have not got the pity, the sympathy or the
imagination to cast their eye for a moment at the housing-list queue. It was a
natural desire for old people to have spare rooms for visiting children but
Cambridge has 5,000 families who have no house at all. It is perfectly normal for
five adults and two children to live in one bedroom with no sanitation, and cooking
done in that bedroom.

1925

Something of a new departure is to be made in the outward appearance of the Pro-

Prctor and his satellites. Commencing next week he will patrol the streets on foot
but minus cap and gown, and the ‘bulldogs’ will wear some less conspicuous headgear
than ‘toppers’. It is said that some students will keep their motors outside the
town and cycle out to fetch them but should any resort to such expedients they will
probably receive an unpleasant surprise.

1900

The Huntingdonshire police are taking stringent measures to stop motor cars going
at an excessive pace on the Great North Road. Fines of £4 and £3 have recently been
imposed and on Thursday a motorist was fined £6. The chairman of the Bench said
motor car drivers used the road as a racing track and made it unbearable for the
inhabitants of the locality. Another time the maximum penalty would be imposed.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 23rd October

1975

Hare coursing, which has about 300 followers in Mid-Anglia, seems almost certain to
face extinction. A survey carried out by the League Against Cruel Sports indicates
that public opinion s overwhelmingly against it. There are six clubs operating in
the region but the pursuit is not particularly a pre-occupation of farmers and the
majority of the followers come from outside the agricultural industry

1950

Cambridge councillors decided not to take over Abbey House and assume
responsibility for its future after the Folk Museum had raised £2,000 to effect the
transfer of the Museum there from the old White Horse Inn. The house contains some
very fine rooms suitable for display of exhibits but would mean they had to rehouse
the families now living there. There was no doubt that in ordinary time the council
would have been able to take the Museum over but it could not take on anything at
the present time because they are so hard up.

1925

A comprehensive scheme for the provision of parking places in Cambridge will be

laid before the Town Council who are empowered to authorise any part of a street as
a parking place, though no charge can be made for parking cars in the public
streets. Sites include Trumpington Street opposite the Leys School, Maids’
Causeway, Lensfield Road, King Street & Jesus Lane. In Pound Hill it is proposed to
allocate space for parking motor buses from St Neots and St Ives

1900

From time to time the announcement goes forth that at last colour photography is a
fait accompli, but the statement proves without foundation While we wait for a
solution there is something to go on with in the way of chromotype views. Messrs
Boots took the lead in Cambridge and have just issued a new set which are
beautifully printed and well worth framing. The set is packed in an elaborately
designed wrapper, tied with Cambridge blue ribbon and would make a very acceptable
gift

Tuesday 24th October

1975

South Cambs District Council could save at least £1,500 a year on fuel if it agrees
to convert all its mini vans to run on gas instead of petrol. If they decide to go
ahead it will be following the example of the County Council. Comparative costs per
mile were 1.36p for petrol and 0.97p for gas. The cost of conversion for the 22
vans is about £5,350
1950

Sir, May I call attention to the danger caused in the streets of Cambridge by the
bad driving of American service vehicles. This morning in Queens’ Road a jeep
attempting to overtake a convoy came headlong at me with its offside wheels against
the verge on the wrong side of the road, forcing me to jump off my cycle in order
to avoid being knocked down. I wonder whether American servicemen are subject to
our road law and whether some are indifferent to the safety of the people in whose
country they are guests – B.F.C. Atkinson

1925

Mr T. Musgrave Francis said they had been in search of a site at Harston for the
provision of a policeman’s house for a long time and had not been able to get one.
Eventually they were offered one outside the village and, whilst the price was
high, they felt they must accept it. Now, however, Mr Arthur Hurrell had offered
the Chief Constable a most suitable site as a gift to the county. They could not
have a better site and he moved a vote of thanks.

1900

Properties at Dry Drayton and Comberton were submitted to public auction. The first
lot consisted of the freehold licensed premises at Drayton known by the sign of the
Queen’s Head and three cottages in the rear. It was knocked down to Fenstanton
brewery for £320. They also became the purchasers of an acre of land at Comberton
at a price of £52 10s.

Wednesday 25th October

1975

Willingham mothers have dismissed as “rubbish” suggestions that they cause traffic
jams by gossiping outside the village primary school. A Parish Councillor claimed
they turned up at the school half-an-hour before the children were let out to have
“a chinwag”. One mother said traffic did get very bad at Thodays Close, but “it is
because there are a lot of cars”. Headteacher Mr Roy Goodwin said: “there his a lot
of traffic for ten minutes, but within ten minutes the whole area is clear”

1950

A farmer, who said he was forced to employ Czechs, Germans, Poles, Irishmen and
gypsies, because he could not house English workers, applied for possession of one
of his farm cottages at Fen Ditton. The occupant had previously been employed as a
farm worker and tractor driver but had quit his employment to go to Marshall’s. The
cottage was need for another farm worker. Of his 14 service cottages this was the
only one not occupied by an employee.

1925

Little Downham parish council are hoping to brighten the main parts of their
village by means of acetylene gas lamps but they want the money to do it. In
expectation of support for such a project they arranged for a public meeting, but
scarcely a dozen ratepayers put in an appearance. The idea is to revive a custom
started in 1911 when acetylene gas was generated at the Pound, Town End and
voluntary subscriptions met the financial obligations. Since the war the gas plant
has been lying idle and the lampposts have served only for supports for the weary,
but now it is trusted the scheme may be revived.

1900

A Thriplow labourer was summoned by William Stockbridge, a chimney sweep, for

stealing 13 walnuts, valued at 1d. PC Housden said he watched some walnut trees in
Pegg’s Close; he saw defendant go to one of the trees, pick up several walnuts and
get over the fence where he was standing. He requested him to turn out his pockets
and 13 walnuts were discovered. A fine of 2s 6d was inflicted

Thursday 26th October

1975

Fire swept through the dry reed thatch of Madingley’s Three Horseshoes public
house. As firemen ripped wire mesh out of thatch on the building’s roof & smoke
billowed across the main street, 20 people were kept busy moving tables, stocks of
wine, ornaments, pictures, carpeting and personal belongings. By lunchtime the
whole of the roof had been affected, most of it exposing the wooden rafters below.

1950

Historical documents dating from the 13th century to 1944 have been deposited with
the County Archivist during the past year. He is particularly pleased to report the
minute book of the Cottenham parish invasion committee 1941-44. “For the benefit of
future historians, it is most important that such archives should be preserved”, he
observed.

1925

There was another ‘battle of the bridges’ at Cambridge Town Council when the
question of the erection of bridges across the Cam was brought forward. With the
opening up of Mill Road there were people who only got ten minutes home to dinner
owing to delay at the ferry. The Paving committee recommended that the footbridge
at Pretoria Road be proceeded with and that a temporary footbridge be erected at
Dant’s Ferry pending construction of a vehicular bridge. It was dangerous to go
over Victoria Bridge and they must have a new vehicular bridge if only to modify
that danger.

1900

A cab proprietor sued a carpenter, for £17 8s 6d damages resulting from a

collision. It included repairs to cab and damage to horse. The defendant counter-
claimed for £7 4s damage to bicycle. The cyclist had boasted that he was a
‘scorcher’ and that he could ‘go’ at a great pace. He was riding about 12 mph when
he collided with a cab, running into the horse’s head. The horse’s leg got
entangled in the wheel of the bicycle & it plunged. The cab fell on its side in the
road. Witnesses said the driver of the cab had whipped the horse and it was going
at a full gallop. Had the driver been looking ahead he must have seen the cyclist,
but he was talking to the occupant of the cab through the well in the top of the
vehicle. Judgement was found for the defendant
Friday 27th October

1975

When I told friends I was going to sleep in the Victorian cells at Huntingdon
police station they decided I was mad. After an hour lying on a rock-hard mattress
with a wood block as my only pillow I began to think they were right. There is no
provision for women. “We just say this is the woman’s cell because it is a bit
cleaner, doesn’t smell so much and is nearer the loo”, the sergeant said. Then he
led me across the courtyard and into the air-conditioned warmth of the new police
station. Seven cells have been provided for men and six for women. Every one has
its own built-in toilet, central heating and air conditioning. Some senior
detectives feel that the new cells are a trifle too comfy. Within the next ten days
the old dungeons are to be destroyed to make way for a car park

1950

Awakened by a passer-by Mr Arthur Gardiner, licensee of the well-known Three Hills

Hotel, Bartlow, found fire raging in the downstairs rooms. Severe internal damage
was caused to the bars and dining room which were lined with boarding, and £500
worth of spirits and cigarettes went up in flames. First floor rooms were slightly
damaged and at one point the blaze reached the roof

1925

Wesley House, the new Wesleyan Methodist post-graduate theological college which
has risen on a site in Jesus Lane, was formally opened. It was five years ago that
the Wesleyan Methodist Conference decided to set up the college at Cambridge and a
site was purchased from Jesus college. The architect, Sir Aston Webb, has carried
out a pleasing design in red brick. The building comprises accommodation for 29
students. The work of the college has been carried on for the past four years in
hired buildings

1900

An epidemic of disease has broken out in Cambridge which is of such serious

importance as regards the public health that we should not be discharging a duty we
owe to our readers if we did not draw attention to it, notwithstanding the
reticence of the medical authority, which to say the least is inexplicable. The
Medical Officer of Health has absolutely declined to take the press into his
confidence. That diphtheria is prevalent is beyond dispute, nor is it confined to
Cambridge for rumour is that deaths have occurred at Chesterton. The death of
certain children attending Park Street mixed infants school first brought the
matter under the attention of the local medical authorities. Several deaths have
taken place which are directly attributed to the disease.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 30th October

1975

Motorists will be allowed to park on Midsummer Common, Cambridge, during the two
Saturdays and three days immediately before Christmas – at a cost of 40p a time.
The aim is to provide hundreds more parking spaces to supplement the permanent car
parks which always become full during the Christmas shopping rush period. But the
Labour leader, Coun Peter Wright said the Chamber of Commerce, whose shopkeeper
members would benefit from the Christmas shopping spree, had never offered to pay
for making good the damaged grass

1950
Abington W.I. will propose at the annual council meeting that in the interest of
cleaner and healthier food the Government should consider the removal of purchase
tax from refrigerators. Landbeach will ask for the imposition of a 30 mph speed
limit on all built-up areas, while Bourn calls on the County Council to pay more
attention to the condition of subsidiary roads. Fen Drayton W.I. want all country
telephone kiosks to be connected direct to the exchange and not through the local
post office in their own village

1925

Sir – in the course of clearing the refuse from the household dustbins the
employees now have instructions to sort out all empty fish, fruit and other tins
from the refuse and leave them behind for the householder to dispose of how he may.
This regulation may not be a hardship for those who have a spacious garden where
they can dig a hole and bury their tins. But we, the ratepayers of Petersfield
Ward, blessed with councillors who have suggested homes in the fields for our
poultry, ask them in their wisdom to be good enough to provide us with a home for
our empty tins – A.M. Morley

1900

In considering a supply of water to Littleport the Inspector said the population

would require 50,000 gallons per day. The available rivers ran for a considerable
length through the fens and were used as main outfall drains for the pumping
engines which pumped water from the adjoining fen lands. It was obvious that any
water would be subject to pollution by peaty water from the pumping stations. The
waters of the Little Ouse, if taken at the end of White Hall Drove, would prove the
most suitable but would still be of doubtful quality. Whatever source was chosen
there should be a service reservoir near the main road to Ely

Tuesday 1st November

1975

Cambridge’s £60,000 Hester Adrian Centre was described as an “outstanding

achievement” by the Minster for the Disabled, Mr Alf Morris at its official
opening. The Centre provides work facilities for both mentally and physically
handicapped people. He paid tribute to the co-operation between Cambridge St
Raphael Club, the Cambridgeshire Mental Welfare Association and the County Social
Services Department. “It is a mater of deep concern to the Government that in the
field of the handicapped, there is so much that still needs to be done to bring
facilities up to the standard we accept as necessary”, he said.

1950

Never have I heard such uproarious laughter at the New Theatre as there was last
night when Max Miller appeared. During his performance the “cheeky chappie” really
lived up to his name with his “innocent” account of the happenings when he visited
a nudist colony. The entire audience was in fits of laughter the whole time, and if
ever there was an occasion when people could justifiably have rolled in the aisles
this was it.

1925
Chesterton RDC was told that it was very well supplied with water but five parishes
had no public pumps, three had private supplies and one relied upon artesian wells
where they had 13 wells continuously running. They should take powers to prevent
that water running to waste. At Stapleford the council had bought land for the
erection of houses but the Cambridge Water Company area did not include the village
and although the main passed in front of the land they had no right to supply
water.

1900

A sad suicide occurred at Lt Thetford where a platelayer employed on the G.E.R.

imagined that he was a sufferer from scarlet fever, although medical examinations
proved to the contrary. There were several cases in the village. Shortly before ten
o’clock he left his fellow-workers near the bridge over the Old West not telling
them where he was going. Time passed and a shepherd brought the intelligence that a
handkerchief had been found in the wash near the river. After a diligent search his
body was found in the water beneath the railway bridge

Wednesday 2nd November

1975

A £50,000 re-investment programme that has begun at the Cadbury Schweppes factory
at Histon will make it the biggest jam factory in Europe, increasing capacity for
jam production by 40%. When the programme is complete the front part of the Histon
factory site will be almost entirely devoted to the production of jellies and the
back part to production of Chivers, Hartleys, Moorhouse and Rose’s jams and
marmalades. A total of 1,300 work at the factory, 1,000 of them full-time

1950

Mr C.O. Stanley, Managing Director of Pye Ltd told the Radio Industries Club
luncheon, “we have now arrived at a time when we should put down a second
television system in this country – a system which operates two programmes on the
ultra-high frequency band, both in colour at the same time; one to be operated by
the BBC and the other by commercial interests. We have to have alternatives, I
don’t think it is possible to put out a single programme and cover the tastes of
everyone”

1925

A dispute between the Vicar of Meldreth and his Parochial Church Council over the
repair of the church and churchyard has come to a head with a petition for a
faculty. In 1919 the churchyard was in a scandalous condition and had been made the
dumping ground for the village. It contained old boots and tin cans and had been
allowed to become infected with jackdaws and bats. Somebody shot the jackdaws from
time to time and dead bodies lay about. It had never been mown and tombs were
obliterated with brambles.

1900

The action taken by the Technical Education Committee in opening technical day
schools in Cambridge has brought about a situation which is of the highest interest
to the future of education in the town. To put the matter plainly the Governors of
the Perse School conceive that the new schools, at which the fees are much lower,
threaten their prosperity, if not their very existence. They say that boys are
likely to leave the Perse – indeed it is an open secret that some have already
left. There is no doubt that the Perse is no longer what it once was – a school for
the children of persons of small incomes. Fees of up to £20 a year must depend
entirely upon the well-to-do.

Thursday 3rd November

1975

Cambridge City Council has set itself a house-building target of 400 a year.
Completions for 1976 are expected to number 250 but the new target should be met
for the next five or six years. Councillor Don Mackay said he was worried that
building such numbers might lead to “little houses being dotted all over” – as they
were at Haverhill. Coun Liz Gard was concerned about the shortage of sheltered
accommodation for elderly people in some parts of the city.

1950

The question of whether to connect the hot water system or the water closets in the
new council houses at Harlton was debated by Chesterton RDC. The Housing Committee
recommended that a tap over the sink be provided and the WCs only connected because
it is not yet certain whether the drainage is good enough to take the effluent from
both. Coun F. Adams asked: “What is the use of building these bathrooms in these
houses if we are not going to use them? It seems ludicrous”. Another observed it
was much better to have a flush lavatory that an unlimited supply of water to the
bath.

1925

Sir – if all the grumblers would combine to get the custodian of the Histon Road
cemetery, Cambridge, a better wage they would do some real good. Each man begins
cheerfully and willingly, but how can he be expected to keep a good heart and pay
for auxiliary labour out of a 25s. wage. Every man who had taken the job has gone
out owning himself beaten by a starvation wage. I heard one say he had to buy his
own grass-cutting machine and bedding-out plants. Even with a house thrown in the
job appears to be more a ‘man-trap’ than cemetery. – ‘Anti-Fat’

1900

It is doubtful whether a better programme has been presented at the Cambridge

Circus of Varieties than that given this week. Mr Fred Brooks has probably appeared
before the Cambridge public more than any artiste on the boards – first at Sturton
Town Hall and later at Arcadia. He has lost none of his vocal ability and the best
of his songs is “Good old Cambridge”, a topical effusion

Friday 4th November

1975

An early harvest and wide publicity has saved the day for the Landbeach Society’s
bid to re-thatch a 16th-century tithe barn in the village. Work has just started on
the £4,000 project. If good straw and a team of thatchers had not turned up in
time, a £1,500 Architectural Historical Heritage Year grant would have been
withdrawn. But at the last moment Huntingdon thatcher Mr John Dodson turned up and
offered to do the job and straw of the right quality became available in
Lincolnshire.

1950

“Under-40s” in Cambridge professional and business life became founder-members of

an organisation whose objects are the encouragement of high ethical standards in
commercial life, the development of acquaintance of men of all vocations and the
quickening of interest in everything affecting the public welfare. The occasion was
the inaugural dinner of Round Table of Cambridge. The elected officers were
chairman Mr. J.N.M. Heffer and secretary Mr G.T. Rolfe

1925
The Vicar of Shepreth’s action in placing upon his church door a notice drawing
attention to a pamphlet entitled “Work or Starve” was severely criticised at a
meeting of the strikers in the East Anglian Cement Company dispute at the village
hall. Mr Watering, the men’s organiser, gave an account of a somewhat stormy
interview with the Vicar and announced his intention of writing to the Bishop over
the use of the church door as an advertising medium to divide the strikers. It
seemed hardly possible that the dispute had been in progress thirty-five weeks.
Only when Colonel Tebbutt was willing to meet the men’s representatives and agreed
to the approved rate of wages would the strike come to an end.

1900
The village of Stansted was en fete on Saturday for the home-coming from South
Africa of Corporal J. Audley Blyth and Privates Philip and Guy Gold. A crowd
gathered to welcome them at Bishop’s Stortford, as it was first thought the party
would detrain at that station. The train however was stopped at Stansted, at which
place a crowd of people, most of whom were wearing red white and blue rosettes
greeted them. They were driven away in a barouche decorated and wearing the motto
‘Welcome Home; when they got to the top of Chapel Hill the crowd took the horses
out of the vehicle and dragged it the remainder of the way.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 6th November

1975

There are three restaurants in Cambridgeshire that are worth a star – according to
Mr Egon Ronay in his latest guide, just published. The Old Fire Engine House at
Ely, the Pheasant Inn at Keyston and Swavesey’s Hotel de la Poste are amongst the
best eating places in England. At Swavesey patrons are assured of an “extensive,
interesting and impeccably French menu and swift bustling service”. The Pheasant
produces intriguing sea-food dishes & at the Old Fire Engine local women who have
had no real professional training cook to a consistently high standard

1950

Although four arrests – three townsmen and one undergraduate – were made, Guy
Fawkes night this year was about the quietest since the war. Undergraduates were
not as lively as in years past. The reason for the lack of activity on their part
was probably the fact that they had been warned verbally by their tutors. Just to
make sure seven watchful Proctors with their top-hatted ‘bulldogs’ maintained a
constant patrol of the main streets

1925

Cambridge usually expects a ‘rag’ on Guy Fawkes’ night but this year’s affair was
of a harmless character, plenty of noise being the chief characteristic. Fireworks
galore were discharged and the Market Hill was occasionally lit up with flame-
coloured flares. But this was rather a tame sort of amusement for undergraduates
and they proceeded to accomplish the now stale feat of extinguishing the gas lamps
in the neighbourhood of the Hill. Some undergrads took it into their heads to
relight the lamps in the centre, which enabled one of their number to climb the
fountain on the top of which something indistinguishable was placed. This being
done out went the lamps again, coins being the smashing factor once more.

1900

The ‘Fifth’ was celebrated on Cambridge in a very orderly fashion. The effigies
that once characterised Guy Fawkes Day were conspicuous by their almost entire
absence. The best attempt at an effigy was made by three or four men who were
rigged out in minstrel fashion and paraded the streets with a vehicle in which were
seated representations of Mr Kruger and his wife. This attracted a good deal of
attention until the rain came and washed the colour from the faces of the dejected
looking figures, and sent the minstrels home,
.

Tuesday 7th November

1975

A £½ -million win on the Pools has helped two brothers on the way to success, so
the bar of their new restaurant at Histon will be decorated with photographs of big
pools winners to remind them of their good fortune. The old Green Hill pub, which
has been the least attractive feature of the area, has now been transformed into a
tastefully decorated establishment which will cater for lovers of good food and
drink. It has a number of whiskeys – sold at low prices, and motorists will
appreciate the large car park at the rear

1950

Before Shelford rugby union football club began their match on Saturday, Mr Herbert
Fordham declared open the new changing rooms which have been built for the club at
their headquarters, the Peacock Inn. These rooms, with sufficient accommodation and
bathing facilities for 60 players, are a gift by Mr Fordham and his brother. P.L.
Davey (president of the club) expressed their pleasure and gratitude for “this
wonderful gesture to sport in the village of Shelford and the cause of rugby in
Cambridgeshire”

1925

Two fires caused damage to the extent of thousands of pounds in Cambridge and both
are believed to have been caused by fireworks. It was particularly unfortunate that
one occurred a few moments after the other, for the second was a much bigger
conflagration than the first, and the fire engine was not then available. The first
was to a corn stack in Natal Road but the other was at Messrs Kidman & Sons’ wood
factory yard and workshops in Abbey Walk. The outbreak occurred at the end of the
building nearest the Coldham’s Common allotments, but it quickly spread along the
rafters and within ten minutes there was no earthly chance of saving the building.
The roof of St Columba’s Mission Hall was soon alight and the outskirts of Simper’s
rope works also began to blaze.
1900

Mrs Doggett, of Gt Eastern Street, Cambridge, has received a letter from her son in
South Africa, who has been a prisoner. He sent his mother a South African
caterpillar with a rose. On arrival the rose had disappeared, and the letter was
partially eaten. The caterpillar was very thin, but alive

Wednesday 8th November

1975
Cambridgeshire County Council will tell Government ministers that it is not
prepared to make Cambridge area ratepayers foot the bill for the development of
Peterborough new town. They will ask the Government to pay the Peterborough bill
itself – or the Council will refuse to provide its services in the rapidly-growing
area. For months the hard-up County Council has been making threatening noises
about the increasing drain in the ratepayers cash caused by providing services in
Peterborough

1950

Messrs J. Carter Jonas disposed at auction the small but interesting freehold
property known as the school house and the Old School, Lt Gransden. Formerly the
Church School it has been disused as such for some years. There was steady
competition for the property which was knocked down to Mr West for £470

1925

There are at least two very happy married couples in Cambridgeshire today. In
Melbourn there dwell Mr & Mrs John Preston Hall, who were married 68 years ago.
They have lived in the same old-world thatched cottage in Drury Lane for 65 years.
He is a working carpenter and at one time there were seven of his people all over
70. In Horningsea are another married couple whose name, curiously enough, is
Melbourn, who celebrate their diamond wedding. Mr Melbourn worked on one farm from
early boyhood until a few years ago. Hearty congratulations to both couples on
their wonderful record

1900

We have received an official statement from Mr Alderman T. Hyde, respecting the

outbreak of diphtheria at Cambridge. ‘Last Friday I stated that we knew of 12 cases
of the disease. Since then we have had a rather unexpected increase which made a
total of 35 today. There have been four deaths from the disease. With a few
doubtful exceptions all cases have been proved to have originated in connection
with the Park Street Infants School, although so far investigations have shown no
reason for supposing that the actual building on the site has had anything to do
with the causation of the disease. No expense or labour will be grudged in the
endeavour to stamp out the disease. It is thought advisable not to allow children
to attend meetings in public halls during the present conditions”.

Thursday 9th November

1975

Clashes between football fans and Cambridge police lasted more than three hours on
Saturday; 13 fans were arrested, nine of them were Northampton supporters. The
first clash came about 2pm when the glazed door of the Dog and Pheasant public
house on Newmarket Road was smashed as rival fans met on the way to the match. As
police broke up the confrontation, United fans collected £2.50 to help pay for the
damage to the pub door.

1950

A middle-aged widow was given permission at Cambridge county court to live in her
own house from January next year on condition that she occupies two rooms only,
shares bathroom and toilet facilities and keeps out of the kitchen. She had been
left the house in Pretoria Road by her late husband. Following his death she went
to live with his mother from 1934-40 and then with her daughter after
unsuccessfully trying to get back her own house. It was let to a lady who had a
University lodging house licence.

1925

The adjourned sitting of the Ely Consistory Court severely criticised the Vicar of
Meldreth. The vicar said he felt plans by the Parochial Church Council regarding
the church path was an attempt to interfere with consecrated ground and the graves
of the dead. It was monstrous to disturb the dead who cannot take care of
themselves and he stood for the dead in his churchyard. It was impossible for him
to attend meetings of the church council owing to the attitude of one of the
members. Everything connected with the council, the parish and everything else he
was always finding fault with and complaining. It was impossible for the vicar, as
chairman to attend any longer. So he gave up.

1900

Some gypsies who had passed with their vans through Newmarket, after hawking
baskets etc camped for a time on a piece of grass near the Cemetery. Three of the
men, who had evidently taken too much to drink, began to quarrel and got to blows.
Two of them stripped to the waist and commenced to fight. When PC Nice arrived he
found them covered with blood and surrounded by a crowd of about 200 persons. The
constable, at considerable risk to himself, interposed to stop them but they would
not desist. He accordingly sent for assistance. Constables Foulcher, Marjoram and
King arrived & took the principal offenders into custody. The others decamped

Friday 10th November

1975

A storm blew up today over a plan published by City council engineers to build a
road across the famous Grantchester Meadows beauty spot. The plan was condemned by
one of the city’s leading environmentalists, Coun Colin Rosenstiel as “idiotic”.
And he warned: “It will never be built because there will be such a gigantic public
outcry”

1950

In the main streets of Cambridge today it looked as though a zoo, a circus, a host
of foreign invaders and history’s immortals had been let loose – not to mention
members of species hitherto unknown. It was the Poppy Day pantomime again and
students were ‘on the make’. Poppy sellers were on the street and some 70,000
poppies were on sale. The Mayor, Ald Taylor, was kidnapped, his hands bound with a
scarf and marched out of the Guildhall into a Rolls Royce while police thoughtfully
held back the crowds.
1925

Three undergraduates were fined £2 each for extinguishing street lamps. James
Haynes, a watchman said he saw the gentlemen approach Drummer Street. They
overturned the brazier containing his fire and he had to put the fire out because
the tar on the pavement commenced to flare. He saw them turn out the light of a
lamp in Emmanuel Street. Two of them hoisted another up to do this. In Short Street
they turned out three more lights and another five were turned out along Victoria
Avenue.

1900

Lord John Sanger’s circus is paying its annual visit to Cambridge. The spacious
marquee is erected on Midsummer Common. This afternoon’s performance was somewhat
sparsely patronised. The absence of children was especially noticeable. This was
probably due to a warning issued by the medical authorities to parents that they
would “incur considerable danger if they were allowed to attend the performances”
in view of the prevalence of diphtheria. The performance will be repeated this
evening when a football match between a “centre-forward” elephant and a Cambridge
footballer will be played.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 13th November

1975

The Duke of Edinburgh opened the new Patscentre at Melbourn which has built by PA
Management Consultants Ltd. Amongst the things he saw were solar panels which were
being used to heat water, and a bicycle powered by a special high-energy electric
motor – both developments by a company of which the racing driver, Graham Hill, is
a director.

1950

Nearly 1000 people gathered in the Guildhall for the annual Cambridge British
Legion festival of remembrance. It was a most impressive sight when the 24 standard
bearers entered the hall to a fanfare played by the Cambridge Band of the British
Legion under its conductor, Robert Austin, dressed in their full uniform of scarlet
and blue

1925

With commendable solemnity Cambridge honoured England’s dead. Never before was the
Two Minutes Silence so well observed in the busy parts of the town, a striking
testimony to the increasing reverence which is attached to this impressive
ceremony. Many wore their poppies as an outward sign of their remembrance and heads
were reverently bared as the first maroon boomed forth from Parker’s Piece. Except
for a few instances of chronic forgetfulness or callous disregard the silence was
complete

1900

Sir – your correspondent surely must be joking when he pleads that business should
be suspended from Saturday evening, December 22nd until the following Thursday
morning. Shop assistants have very little overtime work at Christmas now, and
almost every one has a week or ten days’ holiday in the summer, besides early
closing on Thursdays, so they cannot need a holiday so badly as he infers. I think
we are tending towards too many holidays, which are making our young people think
far more about pleasure than business and their future. And think what it would
mean to the poor who have not the means to lay in a week’s supply of goods –
‘Trader’

Tuesday 14th November

1975

The turkey, once a rare delicacy for the ordinary dining table, now reigns supreme
on the country’s Christmas menu. This season there are forecasts that turkeys will
cost 40% more than last year with the top weights selling at about 50p a lb. One of
the men rearing turkeys locally is Mr David Rayner, who farms 1200 acres at Burgh
Hall, Swaffham Bulbeck. He has been producing turkeys for 15 years on an otherwise
arable enterprise and now averages 10,000 birds a year

1950

Farmers & smallholders gathered at a non-political meeting at Cambridge Guildhall

to protest against ‘the unjust threat of the acquisition of land’ under the 1947
Agricultural Act. The principal speaker was Mr J. Wentworth Day who spoke of ‘the
little men skulking in Whitehall who would like to put the whole land under one
doctrine and dogma, whose aim is to bring farming under committee on which every
‘spiv’ and battle-dodger would have a job’. He said there was something like 10,000
acres under threat in Cambridgeshire. Mr G. Martin of Arrington said his father
lived in dread that the postman’s knock would bring a letter telling him his land
would be taken.

1925

During the Newmarket race meeting season gangs of card twisters took out railway
tickets to cover the period and ‘worked’ the trains between Newmarket and London.
People were enticed to play, or if they refused, they were in serious danger of
being assaulted. A Cambridge undergraduate was deprived of two banker’s cheques,
valued at £10, by the three card trick whilst playing in the train. As a result two
men were sentenced to four month’s imprisonment

1900

Lilian Lawrence, a ‘Lieutenant’ of the Salvation Army, said she was at Histon
conducting a service in the Salvation Army Barracks. On account of a great shouting
outside she was unable to commence the service. She walked to the door and saw
eight or nine boys outside, whom she asked to go away. They did not reply but
laughed at her. They were summoned for disturbing a religious service and fined 5s
each.

Wednesday 15th November

1975

Part of a horse’s skeleton, pottery from Saxon and Roman England and an old black
dog (very much alive) have so far come to light in the dig being carried out behind
the Queen’s head public house in Huntingdon High Street. Archaeologists believe the
dog must have wandered through the fence cordoning off the dig during the night and
stumbled into their trench. Unhurt, but cold and hungry, he was rescued next
morning

1950

Sir, during the past months in Lt Shelford three boys in the age range of 8-11 have
been knocked down by motor vehicles. There are at least two spots that are sheer
death traps for children, at the Prince Regent crossroads and the exit from the
recreation ground in Whittlesford Road. It would be best to have the whole village
brought within the speed limit, but what howls that would produce from the over-
burdened ratepayers. But would such ‘evidence of distress’ be comparable with that
of a maimed and crippled child, or probably one sent to eternity – ‘Anxious parent’

1925

“We the undersigned, convinced that all disputes between nations are capable of
settlement by diplomatic negotiation, hereby solemnly declare that she shall refuse
to support or render war service to any Government which resorts to arms”. The
declaration having been signed by members of the University they called a public
meeting. The hall was nearly filled with undergraduates but a section of the
audience showed their displeasure by continual interruption. Mr G.L. Trevelyan
spoke of the horrors to be met in the next war, and was greeted with the remark:
“No they will kill us nice and cleanly in the next war”.

1900

P.S. Howlett told the court he had visited a house in Castle Street, Saffron
Walden. He found two ounces of sugar, an ounce of dry crust of bread, five onions,
scraps of raw meat and bone and two bushels of very small potatoes. The cottage was
very dirty and the four children were very dirty also. There was an offensive small
upstairs. The mother said her husband had given her only 4d and she had purchased a
loaf of bread and butter. He was addicted to drink and she had been begging about
the town. The younger children were pallid and looked to be starving. He suggested
to the woman she should take them to the Workhouse and offered her a ticket of
admission.

Thursday 16th November

1975

Male chauvinist drivers in Cambridgeshire beware – for the police driver who pulls
you in could well turn out to be a woman. Cambridgeshire Traffic Division has just
successfully trained its first three female drivers. WPCs Jill Melville, Susan
Ashwell and Penny Bailey have sailed through the very stringent advanced police
test and will be working with senior traffic patrols. They are the first in the
country to become traffic drivers in a totally integrated force. They can handle
£5,000-worth of police Range Rover as professionally as any man.

1950

In two years, working mostly during the summer months, the score or so members of
the Histon and Impington Amateur Dramatic Society have built themselves a most
attractive little theatre out of a former American army hut in the grounds of
Impington village college. In 1948 the hut was bought as a scenery store. It was
then thought it would make a good rehearsal room and from that came the idea of
transforming it into a theatre.

1925

Rarely does a stranger pay a visit to Cambridge in term time without commenting on
the extraordinary number of bicycles to be found here. But apparently we cannot
claim the record for the number of bicycles in proportion to the population. The
number of push bicycles in Bedford is computed to be five to every six people. They
have no tramway system and an inadequate service of omnibuses. On market day
bicycles are propped against every wall and in one place they were almost two deep
for 150 yards.

1900

An outbreak of fire occurred at the Art Pottery, Castle Headingham. Mr Bingham was
executing a large number of glazed tiles for an Ipswich church and these had
reached the drying condition. He had left the furnace in a safe state but an
additional draught caused the flue to get overheated and the shelves in the drying
room caught fire. The chief damage was the destruction of 500 of the tiles.

Friday 17th November

1975

An elm tree at Gt Shelford was felled because a black cat named Jemima was trapped
at the top and neither the RSPCA, the police, nor the fire brigade could think of
any other way to rescue her. The tree – which was diseased anyway – was cut down
and Jemima leapt to safety as it fell and made straight for the house where she was
reunited with her very relieved owners.

1950

An unseen stationary radar ‘eye’ checked the speed of vehicles on the Madingley
Road during the last fortnight. The ‘eye’ belonged to a ‘radar speed meter’, an
American device which is having its first full-scale operational test in England. A
small green van on the roadside house the equipment. The ‘eye’ was concealed in an
ordinary cardboard box on top of the vehicle.

1925

Mr Sidney William Washington, of Littleport, was a member of the crew of the great
submarine M1, which was reported to have sunk with all hands off the Devonshire
coast. It means the breaking of a happy romance, for only three months ago he was
married. To the young wife and his parents the news came as a great shock. They
first gained the sad information from the daily newspapers and official
confirmation was forthcoming from the naval authorities when a letter was received
that no hope was entertained for the crew’s survival. An invitation was extended to
them to attend a funeral service at Portsmouth. In Cambridge the deepest sympathy
will be felt for Mrs M.G. Philpott, whose eldest son was aboard the M1 when she
made her last dive.

1900

The Isle of Ely county council’s surveyor reported that the driving wheels of the
steam roller had worn very thin and would need replacing. It was a disappointment
but the roller had been the means of bring them in a deal of money by hire. He was
authorised to obtain two new wheels from Messrs Aveling and Porter, the makers of
the steam roller. Mr Smith asked how long the roller was guaranteed, if it could be
shown there was some flaw in its construction the makers should be approached on
the matter. He was told there was no guarantee.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 20th November

1975

It looks like plain sailing from now on for one of Cambridge’s best known sights,
the Viscountess Bury pleasure boat. It was confirmed that a new site for her
mooring near the gas works had been approved by Cambridge city council. It means
the 87-year-old boat will still be plying the Cam next season. Earlier it looked
like it may have had to leave Cambridge as Banham Marine, the firm who own the
boat, have to move to a new site at Upware

1950

Police officers described how they had seen a 14-year-old girl return to her home
at night in taxis with members of the American forces & had been seen going into a
public house. She was brought before the court as being exposed to moral danger.
The mother said she thought the reason for the girl’s behaviour was that she was
left at home alone while she was working. She was a divorced woman & could make
more money by working in the evenings. Since the incidents she had worked in the
days only and was home by 6 o’clock.

1925

Enormous interest was taken in the result of an inquest on an 11 year-old boy, the
son of a college servant, who was killed in Victoria Avenue, Cambridge, by being
knocked down by a motor car driven by an undergraduate of Emmanuel College. He had
driven a hired Morris Oxford car with defective brakes at an excessive speed round
the bend of the road and on the wrong side. The student was committed for trial on
a charge of manslaughter

1900

The National Skating Association meeting heard that the Fen Centre of the Speed
Departmental Committee was enabled to bring off both the Amateur and Professional
Speed Skating Championships at Littleport, Mr A.E. Tebbit retaining the former,
while the latter was won by Fred Ward. James Smart, who had for so long held the
title, did not compete, as he has retired from the racing track.

Tuesday 21st November

1975

The number of women seeking Cambridge University places has remained virtually
unchanged despite the opening of three previously all-male colleges to girl
applicants. At present, with three women’s and three mixed colleges about 500 women
a year are being admitted. By 1978 four more colleges will have become mixed,
bringing the expected number to 650 women. Miss Sheila Edmonds, Vice-Principal of
Newnham College said while some well-qualified candidates still do not secure a
Cambridge place, this would not be true if the total admission were 650, instead of
500.

1950

A memorial to the 343 officers and men of the 1st Battalion, the Cambridgeshire
Regiment, who died in the Far East was unveiled in the parish church of
Stockingford near Nuneaton, Warwickshire, on Remembrance Day. The ceremony was
attended by representatives of the Battalion. The visit rekindled memories of a
warm May afternoon in 1941 when at the end of a nine-hour march, they entered the
gates of Arbury Park and of the happy time they had there before setting out on
active service. No one who was serving will ever forget the kind hospitality of the
people of Stockingford and the memorial would remain to the 343 officers and men
who did not return.

1925

The 100ft high chimney stack which has stood for close on 300 years on the site of
the old disused flour mill at the corner of Mill Lane and Granta Place, Cambridge,
was pulled down. A platform was erected at the base of the stack which rises from
the now dry river bed, and fuel in the form of straw, wood and corn was placed
thereon. The whole was then soaked with paraffin oil, a match applied and the work
of destruction begun. But the old giant took a deal of shifting and it was not
until the flames had licked about his feet for over a quarter of an hour did he
sway and crash to the ground amid a deafening crescendo of falling masonry.

1900

While lying in hospital in South Africa, recovering from an attack of fever, a

soldier was lent a copy of the CDN containing the account of the Ladysmith ‘rag’.
“As I read it I fancied myself back in the dear old town and could not resist
giving vent to my feelings in a wild war whoop, which brought a nurse hurrying to
the spot in the fear that a relapse had taken place. I tell you it cheered me up to
know that the old home appreciated our efforts and did not hesitate to show how
pleased they were with the success of the British Army”, he said.

Wednesday 22nd November

1975

An underground tunnel 296 feet long, discovered at Wandlebury estate on the Gog
Magog hills is likely to become Britain’s only specially adapted bat sanctuary. A
planning application has been made for a small brick tower which will provide
access both for men and the bats. The 18th-century tunnel is believed to be part of
an early drainage system which ran from the large mansion which once stood inside
the famous Wandlebury ring. It was discovered by the present warden, Mr W.A. Clark
when searching for a later drain.

1950

Several hundred children stood in Cambridge streets on Saturday gazing with

admiring and speculative eyes at Father Christmas as he rode round the town in a
lorry from the New Theatre to Mitcham’s Corner, where he eventually took up
residence at the annual toy fair. Many children ran after him for varying
distances, but none was so energetic as one youngster dressed in green who ran
after the procession from start to finish – a total time of some 50 minutes. When
the procession reached Mitcham’s Corner, Father Christmas did his traditional
disappearing act of climbing down the chimney of the store.

1925

Foreign missions take an important place in the religious life of Cambridge, and
the reports from China of the shocking ill-treatment and martyrdom of missionaries
at the hands of the Boxers, have been read with grave anxiety and pain in this
town. The fate of Mr & Mrs Herbert Dixon has greatly exercised the minds of their
many friends and it is now recognised that all hope of their having escaped is
past. They were for some months in Cambridge, residing at Mill Road and when
leaving were recipients of presentations from the congregation of St Andrew’s
Street Baptist church. Another melancholy case is that of the sister of Mr Doggett
of The Farm, Cherry Hinton but Miss Gregg has escaped and is now on her way home.

1900

Sir – Among the many urgent improvements needed in Cambridge stands that of
abolishing the old, worn-out buildings and improving the thoroughfares of the town.
Disease is prevalent to a large extent and is to be found in districts with narrow
thoroughfares and tumble-down houses. The buildings between Round Church Street and
Ram Yard are a disgrace and in any other town would have been demolished long
since; they should not be tolerated even in conservative Cambridge.- “W”

Thursday 23rd November

1975

The first cannabis resin distillery to be found in Cambridge was discovered when
drugs squad detectives raided a house on the north side of the city. After a tip-
off police surrounded a private house in a residential area. Inside they found
various pieces of equipment along with drugs substances. They took away tubing and
bottles which forensic scientists are examining. They believe distilled resin has
been used to impregnate non-drug vegetable matter and foodstuffs for consumption by
drug users. Police regard their find as important in a city where soft drug abuse
is fairly widespread.

1950

The court was told how a Leyland lorry carrying 2,500 bricks hit a heap of tarmac
on the Cambridge Road, Gt Shelford, depositing 1,500 bricks into the road. The
foreman of the Clifton Construction Company of Coronation Street said it was the
night-watchman’s duty to ensure all obstructions were well lit. The watchman said
the two lights on the heap of tarmac were out but he did not relight them as it was
the break of day. If the driver had not been overtaking another vehicle he would
have seen the obstruction. He was fined £2
1925

Major D.J. Frreyer, prospective candidate for the Isle of Ely, speaking at a Labour
meeting held in the Ely Co-operative Hall, said he was so ashamed at Mr Winston
Churchill’s reduction of the super-tax and income tax that he gave £123, which he
was saved from paying, to the Shepreth strikers. It was nonsense, he remarked, to
pretend such men as himself needed relief. The Government should start at the other
end of the scale.

1900

An Orwell farmer was summonsed for being drunk whilst in possession of a loaded
revolver on the highway. The rector said he was practising with the choir in the
church when the man entered the building accompanied by a dog. He turned the dog
out. Shortly afterwards it returned to the church and endeavouring to get it out he
made it yelp. Defendant came out of the church and almost immediately discharged a
firearm. The rector took hold of the man whereupon he flourished a stick. When near
the church gates the defendant fell over and refused to move. The rector sent for
the police. The man said he had the revolver to frighten away sparrow from the corn
he had been threshing. He was fined £2.

Friday 24th November

1975

Work started this week to preserve the surviving timbers of Fulbourn windmill. It
will be the start of a four-year plan of restoration aimed at reviving the 167-
year-old mill to its former looks. But sadly the ancient structure will never grind
wheat again as the estimate for complete restoration back to a working mill is
nearly £30,000. However an enthusiastic band of volunteers hope to set up a
windmill society to financially support the restoration. It is at present owned by
Dr Leslie Woollaston who has offered it to the trust and is ‘delighted’ to see the
work being carried out.

1950

A young taxi proprietor and motor mechanic of Barton Road, Comberton, argued his
right to erect two petrol pumps in front of his bungalow. He told a planning
inspector the house had been built about 1937 and was previously used as a post
office and later for a taxi hire service. The petrol pumps would enable him to make
a better living. The road past his house was a fairly busy one and with the custom
of farmers he hoped to be able to sell 200 to 400 gallons a week.

1925

In Cambridge, as throughout the country, the sad tidings of the death of the Queen
Mother were received with feelings of profound sorrow. The flags on the University
buildings, colleges, churches, municipal buildings were half-masted, and at various
places of entertainment the audiences, on hearing the news announced, stood in
silence while the National Anthem was played. The Mayor moved a vote of sympathy
with their Majesties King George V and the Queen on the loss of their mother. To
every Englishman the name of Alexandra has stood for love and sympathy.

1900

The Cambridge Coroner opened an enquiry at the Blackbirds public house, East Road,
Cambridge into the circumstances of the death of an East Road shopkeeper and her
three children who were found lying on the bed in their front upstairs room with
their throats cut. She had appeared perfectly sane and was reported not to have
financial problems but was very much troubled about her husband leaving her. She
was very fond of her children and was a good mother. A lodger said he had come
downstairs but found no breakfast ready. He had knocked on her door and got no
answer. He had looked into the room, seen the bodies and sent for the police.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 27th November

1975
A 1,000-signature protest petition is being sent to the Charity Commissioners by
residents who are campaigning against the sale of the old primary school at
Willingham - disused since pupils moved into a new primary school in September.
Willingham Social Club wants to turn the school into a social centre because its
present base – a small wooden hut on the opposite side of the road - is in poor
condition, but the trustees claim that under existing trust rules they have no
option but to sell

1950

A police cordon was thrown around central Cambridge following the setting off of
the burglar alarm at H. Samuel’s jeweller’s shop in Petty Cury. The thief cut a
hole through the ceiling of the arcade leading to the shop, broke the fanlight over
the main door of the shop and climbed through. He made his escape over the roofs.
Some articles stolen were taken from a showcase just inside the grille. Though
price tickets on empty spaces showed that watches worth £10 had been stolen, one
worth £21 had been overlooked.

1925

Mr John Berry Hobbs, the English, Surrey and Cambridgeshire cricketer, was honoured
by his native town when over 400 sportsmen from all parts of the country gathered
at the Cambridge Guildhall to meet ‘the greatest batsman of the age’. Four well-
known County captains, including three former leaders of England, accepted
invitations and all paid tributes to the master batsman. Autograph hunters were
busy during the evening and Mr Hobbs, Mr Warner, Mr Leveson-Gower and Mr Fender
must now be suffering from writer’s cramp.

1900

Four boys were charged with wholesale housebreaking and robbery. Detective Marsh
said numerous complaints were received of till robberies. Two of the boys had been
lodging with their parents at the Victoria Lodging House. One, whose father got his
living by begging, had admitted breaking into four other houses in addition with
those for which he was charged. Another had received 12 strokes with the birch rod
for housebreaking in Oxford.

Tuesday 28th November

1975

One man and his hot-dog stand are at the centre of a furious row which threatens to
erupt into court. Since early this year the hot-dog stall now opens all day on
Mondays and Saturdays on the pavement outside Bradwell’s Court, Cambridge. Local
cafes claim it unfairly undercuts them. The manager of the Wimpy Bar said he was
losing seven per cent of his takings. The owner of the Stroll-in said he was
thinking of having a minimum charge. People were coming in with a hamburger and
just buying a cup of tea or coffee.

1950

Changes n the arrangements for visitors to Addenbrooke’s Hospital were outlined by

the Board of Governors. The present system of brass tokens will be discarded and
the porter admitting visitors will be provided with a copy of the daily bulletin
sheet for each ward and place a tick against each patient’s name for every
visitor.. A maximum of four visitors will be allowed with not more than two by the
bed at any time.
1925

Sit – is it not time that attention was drawn to the question of homework meted out
to the boys at the Cambridge and County School? Is it right that boys of tender
years, between the ages of 10 and 16 should, after doing a day’s work at school,
sit up night after night till the hours of 10, 11 and even 12 o’clock, pouring over
lessons long after their brains refuse to function. If parents complain to the
school the boy subsequently bears the brunt of it. I should like to know if other
parents are experiencing the same difficulty – A Parent

1900

On Saturday the Inns of Court Mounted Infantry joined the Cambridge University
Rifles in a field day on the Newmarket Road. The tactical scheme presumed that a
convoy from Newmarket was desirous of entering Cambridge along the main road
through Quy and south of Fen Ditton. The CURV were told to attack, capture, hamper
or destroy this convoy. Most interesting operations followed with cyclists,
horsemen and infantry all fully employed. As dusk set in the convoy seized its
opportunity and slipped past. The public schools and town and local corps were
unable to attend at the last moment as their rifles had been called in for
Government inspection.

Wednesday 29th November

1975

The trustees of the Hunts Almshouses at Thaxted were presented with a Civic Trust
European Architectural Heritage Year award for restoration work on the buildings.
Before the improvements were made there was no inside water supply and only two
outside toilets for the nine dwellings and the local authority refused to allow the
houses to be reoccupied when old people left or died because of their poor
condition. Now the buildings can house only three elderly couples instead of the
previous nine.

1950

Referring to the ‘controversial question’ of whether the public library should keep
open longer in the evenings the Cambridge Borough Librarian, Dr W.A. Munford, said
that libraries tended to close earlier than before the war simply because there was
no demand for later opening. He referred to an experiment three years ago when they
had opened an hour longer – and been accused of wasting fuel.

1925

A Soham farmer was summoned for employing a child under the age of 14 years ‘in
such a manner as to prevent him attending school at Soham’. The school attendance
officer saw a number of children working in a field picking potatoes. The farmer
said he was most anxious to get his crop in before the frosts and he employed all
the men and women he could get. The school had closed for a fortnight on account of
the scarcity of labour so he did not think there was any harm in employing
children. He was fined 10s.

1900

The annual meeting of the Cambridge Female Refuge heard that 28 girls had been
admitted to the house. Of these five had left for service, one promoted to laundry-
maid and two had been taken home by their parents. Though some of the girls had
given trouble at first after leaving the home, they had in the end settled down to
steady work and show that the lessons learned there had not be forgotten. One
noticeable feature was the number of girls who have been confirmed – no less than
eight – after careful preparation by the chaplain.

Thursday 30th November

1975

Cambridge City Council has brought the Rumble-Tum Restaurant at Burleigh Street and
two private houses at Fitzroy Street. All are in the centre of the area, known as
the Kite, which the council proposes to redevelop comprehensively in the near
future. The individual purchase prices are not being disclosed. The Burleigh Street
and Fitzroy Street properties will show an estimate future profit for the council
of £1.137 a year from rents.

1950

During the war years Newton Hall, home of the prospective Labour candidate for
Cambs, Mr H.D. Walston, was occupied by a Government department. Chesterton council
was told, “This is a case of a man whose property is taken over and who finds at
the end of the requisition period it is handed back in a dilapidated condition so
that £4,000 needs spending on it. He comes to us for a licence and we cannot give
it. He goes back to the Ministry of Works who are sympathetic and says ‘This is a
case where a man should be helped’”. At this juncture of the meeting several
arguments broke out among members.

1925

At the close of the public examination in bankruptcy of Dr - - of Bottisham the

official receiver said he had received a resolution of sympathy passed by all the
debtors’ creditors – all except the money lenders. He was a medical practitioner
and had invested all his capital in the practice, which he continued successfully
until the war. About three years ago he got into financial difficulties and had
recourse to money lenders; he had been in their hands ever since, sometimes
borrowing from one to repay another.

1900

An Inspector of the Local Government Board held an inquiry at Cambridge Guildhall

with reference to the application of the Town Council to borrow £15,500 for the
provision of a new cemetery at a spot near Fen Ditton. Dr Cooper said there was a
good deal of talk and it was of the utmost importance to the inhabitants that the
formation of the new cemetery would not in the slightest degree be of risk to the
purity of the water supply of the town.

Friday 1st December

1975

Few towns can boast a singing garage man with a genuine ‘silver’ tenor voice, but
Newmarket has one in the burly shape of pump attendant, 64-year-old Mr Percy
Bursford. Favoured petrol purchasers at the Rutland Hill Motor garage have the pain
of forking out for fuel eased by his liquid tones. There is nothing he enjoys more
than letting rip with a full-throated burst of light opera over the cash till. He
has been singing since he joined St Mary’s Church choir and became a boy soloist at
Ely Cathedral and he once got as far as an audition at Covent Garden.

1950

Local tradesmen are becoming worried about the parking situation in Cambridge. They
fear that if this goes on the people will not come shopping in the town, said a
solicitor appearing for a motorist summoned for a parking offence. Altogether there
were 16 cases before the court and fines totalling £12 10s were imposed. One
motorist, whose car was punctured late one night, parked it in a side street off
Mill Road and knowing that the battery would last only two hours at the most had
not put his lights on. There was nothing else he could do. He was fined 10s.

1925

Acclaimed as the Swedish nightingale in 1850 and taking the world by storm, Jenny
Lind has been re-born in 1925 in the person of Frieda Hempel who gave her
celebrated ‘Jennry Lind’ concert in Cambridge Guildhall. A most enthusiastic
welcome was accorded by her many admirers for besides having a glorious voice, she
possesses great beauty, enhanced last night by white satin rose-trimmed crinoline
and her beautiful fair hair parted in the middle.

1900

Fire broke out at the rear of the premises of Messrs Laurie & McConnal, Fitzroy
Street, Cambridge. An employee noticed smoke coming from stacks of brooms, a bag of
feathers, a stock of confetti and other material in the cellar. The staff of the
firm set to work to extinguish the blaze and by dint of the application of water
from a line of buckets and from a hose attached to the water tap, the fire was
practically extinguished before the arrival of the fire brigade. It is surmised
that a match was dropped down the lift hole by a passer by, and so caused the
outbreak.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 4th December

1975

The Lion Yard lion is up, carrying in his proud frame many years of history as he
looks down on the centre of the Cambridge new development’s shopping centre. The
city’s acquisition of such an appropriate symbol is a combination of luck and
circumstance. The lion is believed to be the original wood carving for a cast lion
which stood over the old Red Lion brewery at Waterloo station. It was discovered at
the Woburn Abbey antique centre four years ago. Since then it has been completely
refurbished at the city engineer’s workshops at Mill Road. Now it has been put up
in its final home- the Lion Yard

1950

Sir – Cambridge tradesmen are beginning to fear lest they should lose an
appreciable amount of custom as a result of the prohibitions regarding shopping by
car in the principal streets of the town. Let the general body of tradesmen follow
the example which a few far-seeing individuals have already set – that of opening
suburban branches to which the main trade can, in course of time, be transferred.
Let nothing be done to retard the growth of the brave new Cambridge visualised by
our civic leaders – a dream city from which vehicular traffic of every kind has
been excluded and from which all the crumbling and deserted business premises have
gradually been swept away – D.B.M.C.
1925

Sir – The scenes on Sunday night in Petty Cury & Market Hill, Cambridge are
disgraceful. Low hobbydehop youths and flat-chested flappers congregate and parade,
whistling and shouting after each other and using language that would shame
Billingsgate. Surely the police can put an end to such disgraceful proceedings –
A.E.C.

1900

A sad fatality happened on the railway near Black Bank Station, the victim being a
farmer who was well known in the district. Earlier in the day he transacted
business at Ely, returning in a friend’s cart. Later in the evening he joined a
number of his friends at the Railway Tavern near the station, parting company with
them to go to his house in the Second Drove. He did not arrive home. In the morning
the driver of a train called out that there was a dead man laying on the metals
with his legs severed.

Tuesday 5th December

1975

Princess Anne, making her first official visit to Cambridge, insisted on an

impromptu chat with some of the thousands of sight-seers who thronged the city
centre Lion Yard shopping centre. An estimated 10,000 people packed the Market
Square and stood eight deep each side of Petty Cury as she walked into the new
shopping centre. She stopped to talk to the delighted shop girls who were crowding
their doorways and also to the eager shoppers who pressed forward to get a closer
look at her. She explained: “I am not a complete stranger here because I have been
shown around the university and city unofficially by two previous students who are
both fans of the old city”

1950

Cambridge, along with practically every other town and village, presented a
traditional Christmas-card picture yesterday with freshly fallen snow decorating
the trees and hedges. The roads, however, were not quite so picturesque and once
the snow had hardened on them they became very treacherous. Melbourn hill was
completely blocked by three lorries across the road. Madingley Hill was another
treacherous point, with cars unable to climb it and there were long queues also in
the Girton road because they could not get a sufficient hold on a rising road.

1925

The overnight frost in Cambridge was sufficiently severe to ensure another day’s
sport for skaters. At the Cambridge sewage Farm, Milton Road, where the ice had a
thickness of about two inches, skating was continued with safety and there were
quite a number of people, chiefly Varsitymen, “making gay while the ice holds”. The
popular plus four suit and warm pull-over, is just the thing for this kind of
sport, but one noticed a number skating in ordinary suits.

1900

The earnest and untiring efforts of Mr William Parker, late secretary of the
Salisbury Working Men’s Club, Cambridge, were recognised when he was presented with
a beautiful marble clock and an illuminated address. In his thanks Mr Parker
referred to the dastardly attack on the Conservative candidate in benighted
Cottenham. It showed there was work to be done in reclaiming or bringing into the
bounds of civilisation such people as those who lived in Cottenham

Wednesday 6th December

1975

Large crowds turned out to see Princess Anne wherever she went in Cambridge during
her visit yesterday. Inevitably the criticisms that have been voiced about the
architecture of the Lion Yard were referred to during the formal speeches. The city
council’s Labour leader, Coun Peter Wright, spoke of the ‘dissension’ which still
existed over the complex. And Princess Anne, who declared herself a “VI – that
means very independent” observer of the architectural scene, said she would report
back on the project to two “former students” at Cambridge University when she
returned to London.

1950

Cambridge University’s puppet club, the Geppetto, formed in January this year,
presented its first public production at the Round Church Hall. “Jack and the
beanstalk” was written and produced by the club’s founder and honorary director,
Tony Hepworth, of Trinity College. The performance was extremely amusing – some of
the fun was not altogether intentional

1925

Sir – I must utter a strong protest against the action of some person in authority
in the town in trying to put a stop to skating on the Corporation Sewage Farm at
Milton. It does seem a pity that when the opportunity for such a splendid form of
recreation occurs only once in a generation, that some kill-joy should throw hot
water, in this case, on such inexpensive pleasure for the public, with notices of
‘keep off the ice’, barbed wire entanglements, and a policeman taking the names of
trespassers on skates. There were hundreds taking the risk of being prosecuted
rather than miss the opportunity of such splendid sport - Bertram Pearson

1900

The Cambridge Café. Tea and coffee fresh made for each customer. Unrivalled
specialities. Cakes, ices, gingerbread, fancy goods and sweets. Accommodation for
cyclists. S.J. Freeman, Silver Street, Cambridge - advert

Thursday 7th December

1975

The seasonal popularity of mince pies is reflected in current promotions and

special offers. A box of six Mr Kipling’s mince pies costs 24p instead of the usual
31p. At Fine Fare six mince pies are costing 22p. At Tesco, Robertson’s mincemeat
is 43p for a 29-ounce jar, saving 3p.

1950

The Rev J.L. Sowden, rector of Freckenham, travelled to London to become the first
clergyman in 300 years to be elected Master of the Worshipful Company of Makers of
Playing Cards, a London guild company. He is also the first clergyman to have his
photograph printed on a playing card, for his likeness appeared on the ace of
spades in each of 2,000 packs produced to celebrate his appointment.

1925

Sir – in reference to letter concerning the so-called ‘flat-chested flappers’

parading the streets on Sunday evenings, I am afraid the person who named them as
such must be either a very-narrow-minded person or a gouty, flat-footed individual.
He may perhaps recall that these flappers may be shut up in shops and factories all
the week and are only too pleased to get a little fresh air and recreation in
Sunday evenings – ‘One of the so-called flat-chested flappers’

1900

At a meeting of the Haverhill Magistrates the surveyor of the Bumpstead Rural

District Council was brought up on remand charged with making false entries in the
cash and wages book for work on the roads. A labourer said he worked for a farmer
for eight weeks and during that time he did no work on the roads at all and
received no money for working on the roads during that time. But the wages book
showed alleged payments to him of 12s a week. Similar charges were made in
connection with the Clare Rural District Council

Friday 8th December

1975
The official opening of the Cambridge Jobcentre was carried out by the Vice-
Chancellor of Cambridge University, Miss Rosemary Murray. She said a site in the
centre was desirable for any supermarket – and jobcentres had been called job
supermarkets. They are a new thing to get away form the old dole queue and form-
filling image of job seeking. 30 staff have been transferred to the new Jobcentre
from the employment offices in Brooklands Avenue. Currently the city has 1,650 out
of work and 370 jobs on offer

1950

“The almost hopeless state of parking in Cambridge” was referred to when Ald F.J.
Priest urged the demolition without delay of Liddiard’s garage on St Andrew’s Hill
– thus providing parking spaces for some of the season-ticket holders at Lion Yard.
The building had been scheduled as an ‘architectural novelty’ but there would be no
objection to its immediate demolition.

1925
Sir – I must thank ‘One of the flat-chested flappers’ for corroborating my remarks
as to the disgraceful conduct of the motley mob to be found in Petty Cury on Sunday
nights. I should not advise anyone, particularly a young lady, in search of fresh
air, to visit the Cury then, for the atmosphere is ‘too blue’ to be healthy, and
reeks of cheap cigarette smoking, indulged in by ill-bred youths and flappers alike
– A.E.C.

1900

An undergraduate was summoned for keeping a dog without a licence. Detective Wright
stated he called on the defendant and asked if he had exhibited a dog in the Corn
Exchange. The student replied in the affirmative and added that he had not got the
dog now, as he only had it for the purposes of the show and as soon as it was over
he sent the animal away again. He produced a statement showing the dog was licensed
by his father. The case was dismissed.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 11th December

1975

Families in East Anglia now have to earn 31 per cent more than they did a year ago
to keep pace with inflation. This is .5 per cent above the national average. The
Regional Survey reports that an East Anglian family buying a three-bedroomed ‘semi’
on 70 per cent mortgage & running a 1100 cc car, now needs £4,511 a year to
maintain its lifestyle. The current asking price for a three-bedroomed ‘semi’ in
East Anglia is £9,700 (£1,100 less than the national price). Council rent for a
similar house is £5.02 a week

1950

Cambridgeshire chief constable (Mr D. Arnold) told the Standing Joint Committee
that he had had to refuse six suitable men because they were married with a family
and there was nowhere for them to live. “I am still 15 under strength and I want
that 15 badly”, he said. Recruitment depended on whether the men would come
forward, and the accommodation question. Tenders were considered for the erection
of police houses at Fen Ditton, Swavesey and Willingham.

1925

Lively scenes took place at an intended auction sale of goods distrained on the
instructions of the Ouse Drainage Board for non-payment of the rate. Some 30 men
attended the sale at Scales’ Hotel, Milton Road, Cambridge. As son as the
auctioneer opened the sale there was loud cheering, followed by a continued hubbub.
Accordions were played more or less melodiously, the shriek of penny whistles rent
the air, and mouth organs and toy trumpets added to the general pandemonium. A
Welsh pony was trotted out from the stable, its back covered with a large Union
Jack and was run to and fro to the sounds of much music amid a constant flow of
racing terms. It was also sternly admonished to ‘keep its tail up’ and was
confidently dubbed next year’s Derby winner. No bids were forthcoming.

1900

Sir – no one who takes the trouble to make even a cursory inspection of the
unlovely mass of bricks and timber in Ram Yard, Cambridge, can fail to see that its
removal would be a matter of little inconvenience to a very few residents. Several
of the buildings show no sign of occupation by night – there is one of two storeys
which is occupied as a shoemaker’s workroom. Another gloomy pile, now unoccupied,
was, I believe, a blacksmith’s shop. The whole block is uniformly hideous and
obstructive. No one has a good word to say for it – V.S.N.

Tuesday 12th December

1975

A state of emergency has been declared for hundreds of old people living in
Cambridge. The County social services leader, Coun. Mrs Janet Jones, claims that
they are in serious danger of grave illness, injury or even death because they
cannot afford to use the electric heating provided in many city council old
people’s flats. Because of this they are either shivering in the old or buying oil
heaters which they could easily overturn

1950

What are your chances of finding a pair of nylons in your Christmas stocking? Very
slender indeed unless you have your name down at a shop where you are personally
known or happen to be on the spot when a supply comes in. There will be no extra
supplies for Christmas. Some shopkeepers may have decided several months ago to
save from their quotas for Christmas, but that is their own private arrangement

1925

Regular services were resumed in the Leper chapel last summer, conducted by members
of Westcott House. If these services are to be continued a proper floor (there
being at present no other floor than beaten earth) and some form of heating
apparatus are necessary, while the condition of the interior plaster, which is
continually dropping, calls for immediate and careful repair. This means the
raising of a considerable sum of money and it is estimated that £300 will be
required.

1900

Of all the memorable occasions which have gathered together the populace to the
mother church of the diocese surely one of the greatest and noblest on record must
be the memorial service for those who have fallen in South Africa. The Precentor
read the painfully long list of those who had been killed in action or died of
disease during the war including Charles Hemmings, Robert Holland, William Johnson,
Henry Norman & George Pomeroy, (the Ely Volunteers standing during the time).

Wednesday 13th December

1975

Commuters may grumble non-stop about trains being late, but few could work up
enough steam to sustain a systematic six-month daily time check on arrival times.
But Saffron Walden commuter, Mr Roy Mager, has been checking the 7.30 daily run
from Audley End to Liverpool Street and claims that 92 per cent of the time the
train arrived in London late – overdue on average by 6½ minutes. But, to be fair,
twice it was a minute early.

1950

The Minister of Education has approved the provision of a new secondary modern
school at Bassingbourn for 340 pupils at an estimated cost of £86,940. Negotiation
will now begin for the purchase of the 22-acre site.
1925

The advent of Father Christmas in Cambridge marked the approach of the festive
season. He entered the town by means of the railway line. Crowds of young and old
alike assembled outside the station and as the train steamed in a vision of scarlet
and white, with a long white flowing beard, was seen at the window. The coach that
awaited his arrival might have featured in the pages of some Hans Andersen’s story
with his coachman resplendent in his green and gold livery, a footman in blue, &
two trumpeters attired in old gold facings and velvet breeches. To the sound of a
fanfare of trumpets and the strains of the band he started on a triumphal tour of
the town. On his approach to his temporary home at Heyworth’s stores in Burleigh
Street he was officially welcomed to ‘Treasure Island’

1900

An accident occurred at Witchford whereby a boy was killed. The deceased

accompanied a yardman with a water cart for the purpose of getting a supply of
water at the end of the village. This having been accomplished, the return journey
was commenced. On the way, the lad, who was eight years old, fell off the heavily-
weighted cart and one of the wheels passed over his head. When he was picked up it
was found that he was dead.

Thursday 14th December

1975

The controversial proposals for building a major road across the Grantchester
Meadows beauty spot just outside Cambridge have been abandoned for the time being
by the city council following the surprise discovery of a legal document signed 43
years ago. The document, signed by the Borough Council, King’s College and the
Cambridge preservation Society, effectively bans the building of roads across the
meadows by local councils anywhere between the city boundary and the south of
Grantchester village. Legal experts are to examine the document to see if it is
still valid. The document came to light after King’s College authorities drew the
council’s attention to it. None of the council’s legal department remembered it.

1950

A total of 2,325 years loyal service was rewarded by Messrs Chivers & Sons Ltd,
Histon when at a gathering which is now an annual event, three employees received
gold watches for 50 years service each and 87 others were due receive clocks for 25
years each. The firm has always been proud of the loyalty of their staff.

1925

The public examination of the film hirer of the Rendezvous Cinema was held at the
Cambridge Bankruptcy Court. He had taken over the lease from Mrs Mason in June 1924
with Mr Wallace Lester and managed the business on behalf of the partnership. The
concern never made any profits. He started with a salary of £10 a week and as the
concern did not go very well it was reduced to £5. The cinema took about £90 a
week, and wages and other expenses amounted to £120 a week, so that there was a
gross loss every week.

1900
The Exchange Toilet Saloon, Corn Exchange Street, Cambridge. The above
establishment, which is extensively patronised by members of the University, Town
and County, has recently been considerably enlarged and will be found replete with
all the latest and most approved appliances for carrying on a business of this
kind, including a continuous supply of both hold and cold water. Ladies’ combings
bought, and a good assortment of tails always on sale. Combings made up. Umbrellas
re-covered and repaired. Advert.

Friday 15th December

1975

Elderly Pampisford villagers have been spare a long trek to collect their pensions
because a temporary post office now operates in the village hall. Their own post
office closed when the postmistress, Mrs Brenda Beere, resigned because of her
husband’s ill health. On Tuesday afternoon Mr Philip Burns, who normally works at
Sawston post office, sat at a wooden table, surrounded by Christmas decorations,
and doled out pensions and mothers’ allowances. He said he was not used to working
in such colourful surroundings. “There is a play group here in the morning and they
have decorated the place”, he said.

1950

Sir – I would like to convey a word of thanks to the bus conductoresses who carried
on so well during the snow, frost and fog of recent days. Those of us who usually
sit near the door realise how very cold and miserable they must often feel standing
on the platform for so many hours – the draught is terrific. One would think that a
scarf around the ears would be more protection than caps, but of course the rule re
caps may be very rigid - B

1925

The Cambridge Women’s Welfare Association was formed recently to bring a knowledge
of birth control methods within reach of poor mothers. It is a rule that every
woman attending must be seen by a doctor and the Cambridge Centre, Fitzroy Hall,
Wellington Street has both a lady doctor and a certified midwife in attendance. The
London Society for the Provision of Birth Control Clinics began its work in a small
way at Walworth and now has centres at North Kensington and Wolverhampton as well
as Cambridge. At Walworth 5,275 separate cases have been dealt with since its work
began in 1921.

1900

Ely Council’s surveyor reported he had visited several house in Fieldside and
Cambridge Road where overcrowding existed. At one house two adults and five
children (including a boy aged 14) dwelt in one chamber, which was divided by a
very thin partition. In another there were two adults and five children in one
chamber. In West-end there was a large undrained yard tenanted by a man, where cows
and pigs were kept and a nuisance notices was ordered to be served.

`Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 18th December

1975

Cambridge will be completed ringed with major by-passes by the 1980s under a plan
being worked on by government road engineers. They are planning major improvements
to the A11 between the junction of the Northern and Western by-passes at Six Mile
Bottom and Stump Cross. The A11 is a narrow single carriageway and very heavily
used at present, but the Government have been working away quietly and will soon be
producing a scheme for making it into a dual carriageway and building a series of
village by-passes, to become an eastern by-pass for Cambridge.

1950

Gentlemen apparently no longer prefer blondes – unless they are of the natural
variety. From my observation of the hatless heads which grace the streets of
Cambridge I was surprised to find that the number of platinum blondes could be
counted on the fingers of one hand. Hairdressers are rarely asked for bleaches
these days. Most fashionable colour amongst the ladies today is dark gun-metal
grey. And it is the young ones – those in their early twenties – who are the really
enthusiastic followers of the new vogue. Runner-up in popularity is a warm chestnut
colour

1925

Discussion took place on the proposed Ten-Mile Speed Limit through Cambridge.
Whether such a limit is workable or not, we have got to find some way of minimising
traffic dangers. Cambridge and Oxford stand apart from all other towns by reason of
the very large number of young men possessing motors, and Cambridge is worse than
Oxford because out thoroughfares are so much narrower. Undergraduates – if they are
the chief offenders – have to be made it realise it is not so easy to ‘damn the
consequences’. If heavier penalties and suspended licences will bring about the
desired improvements well and good. If not more drastic measures must be sought.

1900

Most of the Cambridge pressmen assembled to do honour to one of their number, Mr

Charles Kent, who after a 12 year’s service with the ‘ Cambridge Chronicle’ as
editor, is shortly to sever his connection with Cambridge journalism. Time was when
one journalist fraternising with another of a rival paper was suspected of
disloyalty to his own paper. All that had passed away and journalists could now
meet on the most friendly terms and still be whole-heartedly loyal to their own
papers. In bringing about this spirit Mr Kent had done a great deal. He was
presented with an illuminated address.

Tuesday 19th December

1975
A plea was made for British Rail to open a station at Cherry Hinton. The existing
traffic problems would get even worse when more than 4,000 extra people went to the
village with the new council development. Passenger trains could easily stop there.
The idea had already been suggested informally by British Rail and was under
consideration. Coun Taylor said a mother with children could pay £1 just to get to
Cambridge and back by bus. Coun Rowley thought his was evidence of how the bus
service had failed.

1950
Dennis Collins and his wife, Jean, are two local people making good in the
entertainment world and much in demand at parties. Dennis got a job with the
Hunstanton council to act, with Jean, as universal uncle and aunt to children on
holiday there. Throughout the summer they were to be found on the sands, running
children’s’ games, skipping contests and sand-design competitions. Dennis taught
himself conjuring with the aid of a couple of books borrowed from the Cambridge
public library and is now a member of the Magic Circle. Jean, who was a pupil of
the Mackenzie School of Music and Drama, played the piano and sang.

1925

Two large bundles of rabbit-skins, one consisting of what is known in the trade as
‘fresh pulled’ skins and the other of what an expert witness described as ‘summer
rubbish’ were exhibited in a Cambridge court. Percy Wheatley, skin merchant of
Staffordshire Street, Cambridge claimed £18.14s. for alleged breach of contract. He
had agreed to pay 4s.6d. a dozen provided they were fresh pulled off., but he found
90 per cent of the skins were ‘summer rubbish’. He produced two bundles of skins
and held them up for the judge’s inspection, pointing out the difference. His
Honour gave judgement for the plaintiff.

1900

At Melbourn Petty Sessions the Bench granted the transfer of the licenses of the
Railway Tavern, Meldreth, from Mrs Clarke to Fred Ely; that of the Fox, Gt
Eversden, from George Desborough to Joseph Charteris; and that of the Wagon and
Horses, Haslingfield, from James Clarke to Henry Charles Carter.

Wednesday 20th December

1975

Veteran village milkman Douglas Childerley remembers winters so cold that roads
were too icy to walk upon. And he suspected that the winter of 1975/6 was going to
be a harsh one, which is why Douglas, who’s been delivering milk in Coton, Hardwick
and Madingley for 50 years, decided the time has come to retire. He was born in the
Plough public house, Coton, where his father doubled as publican and village
milkman before him. As a boy he helped his father carry milk on a yoke with a can
at each end. Later he had a bicycle with two three-gallon cans on the front and two
more on the handlebars.

1950

“I think every road leading on to Huntingdon Road should have a ‘Halt’ sign”, Coun
A.T. Shelley told the Road Safety Committee. “I don’t think there is one corner on
Huntingdon Road between Fenstanton and Girton where there has not been an accident.
It is the fastest road in the whole of East Anglia”, he declared.

1925

Sir – regular users of the main road between Milton and Cambridge have occasion to
complain of the unsatisfactory working of the Milton Road Level Crossing. The gates
are practically never open to the users of the road, the average being about once
in twenty that one can get through. The L.N.E.R. say that on account of the heavy
traffic on the line ‘the gate-keeper is justified in keeping his gates across the
public road in the normal position’. The dangerous and almost prehistoric state of
the avoiding cutting is utterly unfit for modern traffic & is nothing short of a
public disgrace. – P.W. Essex

1900

Private T.G. Elborn was invalided home from South Africa. He had not been wounded
but unfortunately had a very severe attack of dysentery and rheumatic fever. Hence
he was sent to the hospital, and was so ill that he was obliged to be sent home. He
said he did not give in until he was absolutely forced to do so, but then he went
down like a log. He got as far as Middeleburg, about 12 miles further than Pretoria
and that was ‘a jolly sight further’ than some of the Volunteer companies got. He
was very pleased to say that not one of the Cambridge boys was dead, and that was a
record, but he heard that one of the ‘Varsity section was dead. Private King of
Saffron Walden died at Netley.

Thursday 21st December

1975

Rampton football club must have one of the most unusual changing rooms in the
country … a double-decker bus. It originally plied a Yorkshire route but was bought
by Mr Ted Young, who operates a transport service from Rampton, and who has loaned
the vehicle to the footballers while a proper pavilion is being built. ‘The home
team change upstairs, and the visitors downstairs’ explained the club secretary,
Mrs Margaret Smith.

1950

The first of a series of signed photographs of prominent military leaders which is

to be a special feature of the 35 A.A. workshop company R.E.M.E. mess at Coldham’s
Lane T.A. centre, Cambridge, is a striking portrait sent by General Eisenhower to a
member of the unit, Corporal J. Rawley. The Company Mess is now in full swing, its
attractions including a full-sized billiards table, a wireless set, games
facilities and a canteen presided over with great success on training nights by Mrs
McSporran. The unit is going from strength to strength with volunteers practically
every week.

1925

A confetti-strewn pavement outside St Philip’s church, Romsey Town, told the tale
of a happy romance of ripe old age. The wedding was that of John Crane, a 78-year-
old Argyle Street bricklayer, and Mary Ann Sparrow of Madras Road, aged 72. The
couple walked to church and the bride, who looked the picture of happiness, was
given away by Mr James Taylor, who also acted as best man. The romance is quite a
short one, but this is not the first adventure in matrimony for either. Both are
wonderfully active and healthy and do not look their age, while Mr Crane still
pursues his occupation of a bricklayer. When interviewed after the wedding Mr Crane
replied, “I don’t remember what has happened, but we are both very happy”

1900

Cambridge Town Council invited applications for the post of Town Crier, at a salary
of £20 per annum, with allowance for delivering and posting handbills, and uniforms
to be provided. The crier might be a little out of date, but he was a picturesque
figure. Three candidates were interviewed and asked to read one of the
Proclamations used at Midsummer Fair. The committee strongly recommended that Henry
James Thompson. of Perowne Street, be elected.
Friday 22nd December

1975

Charges should be made for treatment in hospitals, doctors should be freed from
committee work and top-heavy administration should be pruned to bare essentials if
the National Health Service is to be cured of its present malaise, the Cambridge
surgeon, Prof. Roy Calne, says in a long letter to ‘The Daily Telegraph’. He says
the service is afflicted by what little money there is being spent on the
organisation and administration of care and not on the improvement of conditions in
the hospitals. Doctors and nurses are being taken away from patients to sit on
committees and become involved in administration. Token payments from patients
towards food and medicines whilst they were in hospital would help ease cash
problems in the service.

1950

With a Morrison table air raid shelter borrowed from the Imperial War Museum, Prof.
J.F. Baker, of Long Road, Cambridge, went to Somerset House, London to lay his
claim for financial recognition before the Royal Commission on Awards to Inventors.
He told of Mr Churchill’s decision that the people must be given shelters in their
homes. He’d had his prototype table shelter taken to Downing Street, Mr Churchill
became interested in it and started to talk to him about it. After declaring that
500,000 of the shelters should be made in three months, Mr Churchill added: “Lower
a house on top of one. Put a pig in it. Put the inventor in it”. An official from
the Ministry of Home security said that with Prof Baker he had no doubt there would
not have been a Morrison shelter.

1925

Romsey Town’s champion girl sprinter, Kathleen Fabb, was presented with the silver
cup which she won at the Crystal Palace. She competed in the first Annual sports
held by the English Schools Athletic Association and came first in the 100 yards
race for girls under 14, thus being the proud champion of the country in this
event.

1900

Mr Whibley told Cambridge Commons Committee that the time had now arrived when they
should keep cattle off the west part of Midsummer Common. There was the question of
the right of stock owners but the profits of a few ought not to stand in the way of
the health and pleasure of the many. They were rapidly outgrowing Parker’s Piece
and they might lay this part of the Common out for football, hockey and other
things. The Chairman said he would be pleased to find that portion of the common
turned entirely into a recreation ground.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Tuesday 26th December

1975
Councillors are concerned about the future of the Coral industrial estate off
Coldham’s Lane, Cambridge, where moves are being made to turn some of the storage
warehouses into cash-and-carry centres. They fear this could result in a lot of
extra traffic. It is built on derelict land which was once the city’s household
refuse tip & has been growing rapidly over the past few years. They will consider
an application from the Kingsbury Warehouses chain to change the use of a warehouse
to retailing and warehousing. For years planners have been worried about the lack
of definition for planning purposes of the word ‘warehouse’. Various authorities
interpret the meaning differently and this had led to confusion.

1950

A BBC microphone hung on a slender thread stretched across King’s College chapel on
Christmas Eve. Five more stood among the choir stalls and in the ante chapel. At 3
o’clock they each became ‘live’ to carry the traditional Christmas voice of
Cambridge into millions of homes for the 22nd successive year. Inside the chapel
were crowded 1,800 people. For the first time since its inauguration all members of
the public who wished to take part in the service were able to gain admittance to
the Chapel although 200 late-comers benefited from the relay to the Hall.

1925
Well, Christmas had come and gone again and all that remains are the parties and
indigestion. Christmas isn’t like it used to be. It never was. With the world
changing so quickly it would be surprising if, outwardly at any rate, Christmas did
not change with it. But although nature may not give us what the Christmas card
designers have led us to believe was the traditional Yuletide weather, what is more
important is that the Spirit of Christmas is still with us and is indeed stronger
than ever. On Christmas Day the football match between Cambridge Town and Thurrock
was witnessed by a crowd of about 1,500

1900

A middle-aged labourer employed at the New Police Station buildings, St Andrew’s

Street, Cambridge, met with an accident. He was on the top scaffold, shifting roof
principals. In doing so he tumbled off the platform and fell a distance of 18 feet
to the next floor, breaking his jaw.

Wednesday 27th December

1975

Cambridge’s ADC Theatre has managed to keep solvent in face of ‘overwhelming’

expense only by doing without a stage manager for a time. Three years’ ago
Cambridge University intervened after a warning from the Trustees that without
substantial financial assistance the theatre would have to close. While audiences
have increased by 50 per cent and more use is now being made of the theatre by
student societies, cash is still a problem. However they are confident it will
continue to provide the facilities needed for the practice of amateur drama in
Cambridge.

1950

Cambridge has gone one better than flying saucers, for reports have been reaching
me indicating that the sky has been pretty full of flying Father Christmases this
week. The old man got really up-to-date when he made what may have been his first
trip in a helicopter. He had an appointment at a party for the children of the
staff of Pest Control. Earlier he had journeyed in a Chipmunk plane to Marshall’s
Airport where RAF Volunteer Reservists gave a party for their children.

1925

A meeting of ratepayers protested against the compulsory attendance of the children

of Rampton at the elementary school at Cottenham. They object to their children,
whom they cannot afford to appropriately clothe and feed, having to tramp long
distances to school through slush and mud and in all kinds of weather. The children
need extra clothing and boots, and the food they have to take with them costs more
than if they were fed at home

1900

A serious fire occurred on the premises of Messrs Coulson & Co., drapers at Peas
Hill, Cambridge, and the flames were not extinguished until the entire stock of
goods in the shop were completely destroyed. Captain Greef of the Fire Brigade
arrived as did 14 firemen and nearly a dozen constables. The fronts of the shop
were much damaged. The cause of the fire is attributed to the overturning of one of
the incandescent burners in the shop window.

Thursday 28th December

1975

Mr Cyril Asplin of Needingworth does not have fairies at the bottom of his garden –
he has a concert hall. It all started with what he calls a ‘half-hearted’
construction built primarily as a store for his two musical instruments – Hammond
and Lowry organs. From then it just grew and now it can comfortably seat 250
elderly or disabled people. When they cannot come to him, Cyril goes to them. He
began touring seriously six years ago and has given 1,400 recitals for charity.

1950

Christmas 1950 – a crisis Christmas someone called it. But whatever the surrounding
circumstances it always manages to be an occasion of rest and sociability. In the
morning the quiet streets were bathed in the light of a wintry sun. Of course there
are always the Christmas Day Spartans who plunge into the icy depths of Sheep’s
green whatever the weather. There were fourteen braves this year, the youngest
being 13-years-old D. Longstaffe.

1925

The Isle of Ely County Council claimed £37 for arrears of rent of smallholdings at
Tower Farm, Lt Downham. The defendant said he had three acres of sugar beet, one
acre of mangolds, two acres of brank, a fowl house with about 100 fowls, and
agricultural implements. He had advertised to sell his stock but in consequence of
bad trade withdrew them. He had a valuable horse for which he had been bid £70 that
he had sold for £24.

1900

A Corporation employee descended beneath the surface of the road in St Andrew’s

Street, Cambridge, with a candle in his hand and approached the gas main running
under the tramlines. This pipe contained a leakage, and a quantity of gap was
escaping. The flames of the candle caused the escaped gap to explode and flames
shot up out of the cavity in an alarming manner. The employee arrived at the
surface little the worse for his experience. Traffic was suspended for some time
until the leakage was repaired.

Friday 29th December

1975

Living on a modern house on a St Ives estate just did not have enough character for
Mr Peter Cracknell and his wife. So they have taken on the mammoth challenge of
bring back to life a railway station at Bluntisham. Accommodation is not exactly
tailor-made for a family at the moment. There is a booking hall, waiting room, a
kitchen in a shed, a ticket office, three bedrooms, a yard and outbuildings. ‘There
aren’t many houses with a platform at the bottom of the garden with a railway line
as well. Most of our friends think we are crazy’, he said.

1950

A plea for the Borough Court to bring pressure to bear on the corporation to
provide better parking facilities in Cambridge was made by a solicitor when he
appeared on behalf of a motorist summoned for causing a motor car to wait in St
Andrew’s Street for a longer period than the permitted 15 minutes. “I feel it is
only a matter of time before every motorist in Cambridge comes to court because he
is forced to leave his car somewhere. The parking situation is a nightmare’, said
Mr A.H. Wild. ‘One feels the police are carrying this vendetta to extreme lengths”,
he added.

1925

A referendum was taken in the village of Fordham on the question of providing a

public water supply in place of the present methods of landlords supplying their
own properties by means of private wells. This was not sufficiently decisive and it
was decided to take a poll of the village. By a majority of four to one Fordham has
refused it. The result was quite expected. A few wells have been found to be
polluted but they only need to be deepened and the top soil kept free of sewage.
Between the two streams the soil is boggy and the water polluted by decaying
vegetation.

1900

The Union Workhouse at Caxton, an institution which is unique for the advanced ages
attained by its inmates, celebrated Christmastide in true festive style. To many a
grateful old man and woman who lot has been so cast Caxton workhouse spells ‘home’
and the cheery demeanour of many bore undeniable testimony to the unremitting care
and attention which is bestowed upon them. A number of the inmates are confined to
their beds but making a tour through the spick and span wards one could not but be
struck with the effort that was being put forward by thoughtful officials on behalf
of the helpless

2001

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 1st January

1976

Hurricane force winds gave Mid-Anglia its worst night of storm damage for years.
Wandlebury beauty spot was closed for the first time in memory after gale-force
winds ripped up magnificent giant beech trees by their roots during the night,
causing three fires as they crashed down on high-voltage power cables. The warden,
Mr Bill Clark said: “It looks as though we shall have large gaps – maybe for years
– and this will make the park even more vulnerable if we have more gales.”

1951

The first day of 1951 saw England upholding its best traditions of variety as far
as weather is concerned. When the bells rang in the New Year there was one degree
of frost, then the rain came, followed by frost, then came a blizzard and a thaw.
Anyone walking in the streets looked like a snowman within five paces. Traffic was
brought to a standstill in Newmarket. Roads were icy and some cyclists found it
impossible in some places to ride their machines.

1926

1925 was sent from among us, and 1926, was ushered in by the century-old custom of
firing two rockets on Parker’s Piece at midnight. A small band of townsfolk
gathered to attend the funeral obsequies of the dying year. At ten minutes before
midnight Mr A. Deck arrived with the rockets and the crowd stood in silence. Then
the bells of Great St Mary’s were drowned out by a mighty rushing noise, a whiz and
a bang and 1925 had gone. Then as the first chimes of the Catholic church reached
the ear there was a second whiz followed by another loud bang and 1926 was here.

1901
All over the country people keep up the practice of watching the Old Year out and
the New Year in, but Cambridge is probably unique in the sending up of rockets. Mr
Alderman Deck has religiously observed the practice inaugurated by his father and
the townspeople are grateful to him for it. Hundreds of people gathered on King’s
Parade. The two rockets were placed in a crate and just as King’s clock was
striking the midnight hour the venerable Alderman applied a light to one of the
rockets and with its flight was symbolised the flight of 1900. A few moments later
the second rocket was sent up, heralding the birth of the New Year and the New
Century.

Tuesday 2nd January

1976

A huge clearing up operation was organised by emergency services as the hurricane

winds died down. The trail of wreckage included tiles ripped off hundreds of homes,
fences blown down, flattened greenhouses and television masts torn off chimneys. At
Milton an ancient elm tree which only months ago was declared safe by tree experts
was partly blown down. At Histon the side of a house was blown out on a new estate
and some villages between Harston and Bassingbourn were still blacked out today
after the hurricane blew down power cables.

1951

A social worker for the Cambridge Association for the Care of Girls spoke to
members of the Cambridge Inner Wheel. She said her work involved giving talks to
girls in senior schools. In addition to questions about sex they would ask whether
10 was too young to start going out with boys and whether they should allow boys to
kiss them on a first date. One lady said: “there is too much sex education given to
children nowadays. Girls of my day were mostly ignorant of those things, yet they
have succeeded in making a success of their marriages”

1926

The many hundreds of people who crowded Market Hill to see the meet of the
Cambridgeshire Hunt on Boxing Day morning will have an opportunity of trying to
pick themselves out in a special film at the Victoria Cinema. The photography is
extraordinarily good and the picturesque scene well depicted. The spectator gets
good views of various sections of the crowds and the huntsmen are seen partaking of
the refreshments supplied by the Mayor. Later as the Hunt moves off we see them in
King’s Parade.

1901

A great sensation was caused at Baldock when it became known that a woman had
committed suicide by jumping down a well. Her husband said he had awoken and
thought he could detect something burning. As his wife was closest to the door she
said she would go down. After being absent for about two minutes he became alarmed.
He found the house was empty and the back door open and immediately heard a scream.
He rushed outdoors and proceeded to the well. Finding the lid open he let down a
lantern but could not see any trace of her. A well sinker was let down in a bucket
& recovered the body.

Wednesday 3rd January

1976

Almost all the stock of top class boats being built by St Neots Rowing Club were
lost when the wall of the boathouse collapsed during the recent storm. They
included a brand new boat that was to have been used by the elite four who had been
invited to take part in Olympic trials at Henley. Also lost were some old clinker
sculls and clinker fours, now virtually irreplaceable. There was also widespread
damage in the area. At Alconbury the police office roof was damaged and council
workmen were kept busy during the night clearing fallen trees on most major roads,
including the dual carriageway A.1 north-bound road at Southoe

1951

Some local shops have already started their January sales but there seems to be
comparatively few shoppers about. There are good bargains and some goods are being
sold at half price. With money as short as it is, women go to the sales in a
strictly practical frame of mind. There was a long queue at a shop offering
flannelette sheets, towels & tablecloths. Shoe departments are attracting buyers
who have not yet forgotten the scarcity of leather during the war. One is offering
odd pairs at less than half price.

1926

The RSPCA prosecuted a Linton man for overdriving a sow. He had been given the job
to drive the animal to a farm where it would be used for stock purposes. On arrival
the sow was so exhausted that it died within a minute. The man said: “I took an
hour to get her there. She started ‘blowing’ before I got out of Green Lane and she
was a trouble all along the way. I have driven a good many pigs, but she capped the
lot for ‘blowing’.” He was fined 13s. 6d.
1901
The Cambridge Medical Officer of Health reported on the recent outbreak of
diphtheria. He had inspected Park Street school and could find no cause for
complaint except as to the odours arising from a cesspool. Alderman Dalton said the
present school might be perfectly healthy as workshops, or a Sunday School or an
evening institute. There was a great difference between children assembling for a
couple of hours in one day of the week and living in the place the whole of their
time. The question should be decided whether the school should be carried on under
the present unsatisfactory conditions or whether new buildings should be erected.

Thursday 4th January

1976

About 700 homes in mid-Anglia were without electricity today – more than 48 hours
after the gales. The areas hit by major faults included Saffron Walden, Ickleton,
Burwell, Littleport, Haddenham, Gamlingay and Melbourn. Up until yesterday
afternoon between 1,500 and 2,000 homes had been without power. The Fire Brigade
dealt with 150 emergency calls and had all their appliances working to make wind-
damaged property safe. Thirty caravans were blown over at Caravan International’s
Newmarket site.

1951

The Minister of Town and County Planning has compiled a list of buildings in
Cambridge, which are afforded a degree of protection which they have not hitherto
enjoyed. The list is a formidable one covering colleges, University buildings,
churches, public houses, business premises and private houses. It includes the
modern Laboratory of Physical Chemistry in Free School Lane which incorporates the
16th-century hall of the original Perse school with its fine hammer-beam roof.

1926

The Water Engineer submitted a scheme to Ely RDC for the extension of water supply
to Haddenham. He recommends the erection of a reinforced concrete water tower with
a capacity of 100,000 gallons as the existing towers at Littleport and Sutton. The
site chosen is the corner of a field at the back of the Rectory House, abutting the
bowling green. There are other convenient sites but this is nearer to the existing
pipeline and enables it to be laid straight to the tower without unnecessary curves
or awkward bends.

1901

The observations of certain phenomena on the planet Mars has created considerable
interest in the astronomical world. All sorts of suppositions have been advanced to
explain what was thought to be a possible attempt by the inhabitants of that planet
to communicate with this world. Monsieur Flammarion of Paris has proved to his own
mind that Mars is inhabited and possessed of a high degree of civilisation but is
forced to admit that “our humanity is hardly ready for their trials, which are a
little above its ordinary comprehension”.

Friday 5th January

1976
The St Ives boxer, Joe Bugner, former British, European and Commonwealth
heavyweight champion, has retired from boxing at the age of 26. The 16-stone boxer
is rated number four among the world’s heavyweights. Bugner, who held his own with
the best, began his eight-year career with a three-round knock-out defeat and ended
it with a 15-round fight for the world title with Muhammad Ali. He said today:
“Boxing was a sport which I never liked, but which I learned to love. The love died
after the Ali fight”.

1951

The weather when the Belfast Linen Warehouse started their January sale did not
daunt the determination of housewives. A large queue was waiting for the doors to
open. Therein was an abundance of real bargains at ‘slaughtered’ prices, for
example full size down quilts with bedspreads to match were marked down from £12
15s. to £4 19s. The manager said: ‘The patience of the women during their
uncomfortable vigil in the snow was truly remarkable. Everyone was in good humour.
Not a grouse was heard from the customers or the good-tempered, much harassed
assistants”

1926

One has been glad to see the new sign posts erected in various parts of Cambridge
for in these days of ever-increasing road traffic we want to make it as easy as
possible for motorists who pass through our town. As originally erected one
directed travellers to Bedford along King’s Parade and through Magdalene Street,
but when it was pointed out that the traffic through the town should be diminished
as much as possible, this offending arm was removed.

1901

The number of scholars of the Sunday School connected with Sturton Street Primitive
Methodist Chapel, Cambridge, has outgrown the accommodation to such an extent that
it has been found necessary to extend the premises by adding a new wing at the
rear, with a kitchen and offices. Work will also be taken to reseat the chapel,
matchboard and ceiling and renovate the walls. The first stone was laid by Mr W.G.
Pike, Mr A.W. Endersby laid the second and the Rev W.M. Batterbee the third.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 8th January

1976

One of England’s most successful ever horse trainers, Noel Murless, is to retire at
the end of the flat-racing season in November. From his stables at Warren Place,
Newmarket, he said “I am 65 years of age and have been actively engaged in racing
for 50 years and it’s time I got out of the way.” On retirement he will hand over
his yard and the majority of the 50 horses currently in training to his son-in-law,
Mr Henry Cecil, and his daughter, Julie, who at present train at Marriott stables.
Mr Murless became champion trainer for the first time in 1948.

1951
When the children of the Morley Memorial School returned after the Christmas
holidays, they found a white-coated civilian on duty to see them safely across the
road. He is Cambridge’s first traffic warden appointed in the interests of child
safety and to help relieve the police. The idea of civilian traffic wardens has
been tried successfully in other towns. The scheme has the approval of the police
who give the wardens a course of instruction in their duties.

1926

Mrs Angelina Dunn Gardner, of Fordham Abbey, left £1,500 to the Fordham Parochial
Church Council for the purchase of a suitable piece of land and the erection
thereon of a Church Hall to be used primarily for occasional services or the moral,
physical, social, intellectual and spiritual interests of the inhabitants. She
directed that the building should bear a tablet of stone recording the gift and its
object.

1901

The visit of a ‘ghost’ to the cottages of Steeple Morden, known as ‘Moco’ and
occupied by a gamekeeper and his wife and a shepherd, has caused a great sensation
in the village. A fortnight ago the gamekeeper heard strange noises, as from a
person in agony, emanate from the party wall. He then heard a thud and the firing
of a gun in one corner of their room. It is stated that one if not two murders were
perpetrated at this place many years ago.

v
Tuesday 9th January

1976

Newmarket traders are preparing to fight an application to build a £500,000

supermarket in the town. They feel the plan could mean the closure of some of the
town’s food stores. Whittome Properties Ltd has applied to build a 14,000 sq. ft.,
two-storey food and merchandise store for the John Lewis Partnership on the site of
the Rutland Hill service station. There would be parking for 187 cars and a new
access to Rous Road.

1951

Parsonage Street, Cambridge, was blocked for over four hours by a massive boiler
which is being installed in the Star Brewery. The street was impassable to all
traffic because of the complicated process of getting it into the new boiler-house
– specially built for the purpose – with only a confined space to turn in. All the
installation work is being done by the local firm of Messrs George Lister & Son of
Abbey Road.

1926

An outbreak of smallpox has occurred and a young man of March has been isolated.
Recently he paid a visit to Cambridge where he attended a market. He became unwell
and three days later spots began to appear on various parts of his body. On Boxing
Day the doctors arrived at the opinion that the case was clearly smallpox and the
man was removed to March Isolation Hospital and 20 ‘contacts’ have since been
treated.
1901

Prospects of early skating are splendid, and unless there is an immediate change
the exhilarating pastime will be indulged in tomorrow at the Littleport rendezvous.
Swavesey is also flooded and will soon bear. Whether the National Skating
Association will decide to hold the Championships there or at Littleport is not yet
known. There is much to recommend both places, but whereas they lack length of a
proper course at Littleport, the arrangements for racing are almost perfect.

Wednesday 10th January

1976

There was a double celebration at Priory Infants School, Cambridge – it marked both
the 25th anniversary of the school’s opening and Miss Gwendolen Meadows’ 25 years
as headmistress. The Mayor and Chairman of Governors were amongst the 200 guests
who attended a reception. There were two teachers from Miss Meadows’ own school
days as well as somebody who attended the school as a pupil when it first opened
its doors in 1951.

1951

The Minister of Supply, Mr G.R. Strauss, toured Cambridge industry. He visited Pye
Ltd, the Marshall organisation and the Cambridge Instrument Company and said he had
been ‘very favourably impressed by the spirit in all the works’. Although
production of radio sets would be curtailed, work on the electronics side of
rearmament would absorb employees affected. Rearmament made more demands on the
aircraft and electronic industries than on most others, he said.

1926

Alderman Few asked a question as to the condition of a teacher’s house at Westley

Waterless. The rent appeared to be fixed at £6 per annum. Was the place fit to live
in? Mr Fordham said it was a very small house, let to an uncertificated teacher.
One woman lived by herself. There were two living rooms, two bedrooms, a scullery,
and an entrance through the schoolroom.

1901

No provision has been made in Cambridgeshire for the application of the Inebriates
Act. This enables magistrates to deal with persons who have been frequently
convicted of drunkenness by sending them to a home and is based on the view that
habitual drunkenness is to a large extend a disease. It recognises the indubitable
fact that for the curing of the drink habit short spells of imprisonment have
proved ineffectual.. Cambridge town and county are remarkably free from the
habitual drunkard and yet cases arise every now and then from which an Inebriates
Home would be advantageous. There is no home to send them. Cambridge has not the
material to keep up an inebriate home, but East Anglia has. The advantages of
conjoint action are apparent.

Thursday 11th January

1976
One of Huntingdon’s best-known filling stations is to close after more than 14
years because of plummeting sales. The Afton service station has been a victim of
Huntingdon by-pass. It has taken away most of the passing trade and is cut off from
its local customers. The final blow came when the access road passing the filling
station was changed to one-way traffic into the town. Local customers could not get
to the Afton unless they chanced a hazardous U-turn across the traffic flow

1951

The Associated British Portland Cement Company sought sanction to develop new marl
pits in the Coldham’s Lane area and chalk quarrying at Lime Kiln Road, Cambridge,
to ensure supply of raw materials to their Norman Works for the next 65 years. They
were appealing against the County Council’s refusal of their applications. It had
been estimated it would be possible to work the present Lime Kiln Road quarry to a
further depth of 40 feet. This would allow for an extra 71 years working. The
residents of the Orchard Estate were very apprehensive about development planned to
come up to their back gardens.

1926

Further manifestation of the stubbornness of parents in the Bottisham area against

sending their children to school at Burwell was forthcoming when a number of
summonses for non-attendance were heard. One case was adjourned in order to
consider whether the County Council would sanction a child remaining at Swaffham
school, where there was plenty of room. One parent contended it would be
detrimental to the health of his children, who were delicate, to go to Burwell. If
the girl was allowed to go to Reach school for a year he would be prepared to send
her to Burwell after that, if she grew out of her delicate condition.

1901

At West Suffolk Quarter Sessions the surveyor of Clare Rural District Council was
indicted for making false entries in a wages book. His duty was to survey the
highways and see that the various labourers employed were paid their wages. In
three instances, in the case of two men at Withersfield and one at Great Thurlow
prisoner had made entries for work done and money payable when, as a matter of
fact,, no work was done and the labourers never existed upon earth. The money did
not enter the pockets of the mythical workers but the prisoner’s himself.

Friday 12th January

1976

Two students had a dramatic escape from death when they fought their way through
dense smoke after a fire broke out at historic Magdalene college, Cambridge. An
electrical fault triggered off the blaze which caused widespread damage to an
isolated three-storey building and at one stage threatened to endanger the famous
Pepys library. It was the worst fire disaster at a Cambridge college for many
years. The last severe University fire was at the Department of Biochemistry when
there was £100,000-worth of damage

1951

Major Marshall Nixon, deputy engineer to Mr W.E. Doran at the Great Ouse Catchment
Board, was the man who, in the 1947 floods, suggested sealing the Over breach with
military amphibious load-carriers. His suggestion proved highly success and earned
him the Institute of Civil Engineers’ 25-guinea ingenuity prize for 1948. He was
made works engineer during the big rehabilitation and damage repair works following
the floods.

1926

Ely and low-lying parts have luckily escaped any serious encroachment from the
flood waters passing down the River Ouse. On Monday the river reached its highest
at 16 ft 9 ins, the normal being 13 ft 6 ins. Denver sluice was a godsend, for had
it not been for the fine manipulation of those sluices another two to three feet
would have been recorded at Ely. Along the 100 ft Bank however and between the Old
and New Bedfords, the flood water stretches for at least 20 miles. Many parts
around have suffered, but no serious damage is reported.

1901

Quite a sensation was caused in Fordham by the news that the dead body of a young
man had been found near a stack on land adjoining a road on the outskirts of the
village, along which many people must have passed. The landlady of the Red Lion Inn
said she knew deceased as a customer. They took him for a tramp and he hardly spoke
all the time he was in the house. He was sitting about for some time with his head
on his arms as though sleeping, but was not the worse for drink. Deceased worked as
a labourer on the sewerage works at Exning and was in the habit of sleeping out; he
had been a rather rough character.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 15th January

1976

Eight women working on an horticultural farm near Wisbech have come out strongly
against the new sex discrimination and equal pay laws. They want to be freed from
the legislation that would give them the same pay as the menfolk on the farm
because they do not drive tractors or lift heavy boxes. They have told the
Agricultural Wages Committee that as they are not willing to do this sort of heavy
work, they would be satisfied with being paid 75% of the wages earned by the men.

1951

The recently-formed Teversham Labour Club, with a membership of 150, held its first
social in its new headquarters. In a short address Alderman A.E. Stubbs touched on
the work of the Labour movement. There was a time, he said, when workers – farm
workers in particular – were very poorly paid. Now many workers were earning over
£1 a day, a state of affairs which could never have been achieved under Tory rule.

1926

Cambridge Railway Clerks’ Association annual dinner heard of the serious commercial
encroachment which road transport is making upon the railways. It was entirely
unfair that railway companies should have their business taken away from them by
this new form of transport. The country would have to make up its mind whether it
was going to have an efficient railway service or an inefficient, anaemic railway
system hampered by this new form of competition with which it was unable to
compete. Railwaymen were getting very restless about this question
1901

Mr Luddington said that people might think Littleport was a plague-infested place –
(Mr Cutlack: So it is). There was nothing to prevent typhoid germs floating down
the river from Ely, while the fen engines were constantly pouring in water that was
impure. There was the flood time and the time when the reeds were cut and allowed
to lie in the water and stink. Let them look up the river that day and ask
themselves if the water was fit to drink.

Tuesday 16th January

1976

A male stripper, who recently won national fame in a court case with a blazing
Viking helmet, is to perform at one of a series of variety entertainments at
Haverhill Town Hall. The shows are being organised by two men who have formed an
agency to “bring life to a dead town”. They have already staged a highly-successful
stag night with female strippers.

1951

Between 30 and 40 drivers and conductors of the Eastern Counties Bus Company are
down with influenza and the position is “fairly serious” said the district traffic
superintendent. “The position is made worse by the fact that we already have a
staff deficiency of 15 conductors. Employees are definitely pulling their weight.
They are coming on duty when they are not fit to do so. We get two or three men
going down a day whilst on duty. Then we have to find someone to keep their buses
going”, he said

1926

The proposal to establish a parking-station in opposite Brookside in Trumpington

Road, Cambridge, is meeting with opposition. Residents resent the possibility of
charabanc crowds congregating in front of & gaping into their windows. The scheme
will interfere with their privacy, comfort and peacefulness; the noise caused by
the arrival and departure of motor vehicles would create an intolerable nuisance;
the outlook would be entirely spoilt, & the value of the properties seriously
depreciated.

1901

A Littleport parish meeting was held to consider the matter of the water supply
attracted a large assembly. The clerk reported on three schemes – an independent
supply from Beck Row, a supply from the River Lark, and a supply from Ely. Without
the proposed reservoir and the fire hydrants the work could be carried out for
£5,000. It was for the meeting to decide whether to have water for a favoured few
or go to the whole parish. Most of the cases of typhoid had occurred against the
drain that came down Black Bank, but there were some cases at Red Cow Drove.

Wednesday 17th January

1976

Trees along Cambridge’s world-famous Backs felled because of the spread of Dutch
elm disease have now been replaced. More than a dozen lime tree have been planted
at Trinity College Pieces to replace 20 elms recently felled. Trinity college
bursar said, “Not all of the elms were diseased but they were felled because, once
the disease starts in a row it is difficult to contain unless all are removed”. The
disease was beginning to appear in a number of other elms, although at the moment
those in the Fellows’ Garden were unaffected.

1951

Newmarket folks turned their eyes to the skies when the world’s largest, and
certainly noisiest, bomber passed overhead. The aircraft was one of the US B-36
bombers which arrived at the USAF base, Lakenheath, a few days ago. It was
beginning its return flight to America, flying direct via the North Pole, and the
two supplementary fuel tanks attached to the wing tips were clearly seen as the
huge machine roared over the rooftops.

1926

Miss Maisie Fry of the Gogmagog Golf Club is one of the seven winning beauties in a
“Daily Sketch” beauty competition and will receive a prize of £50. She is typical
of the English girl, with fair curly hair and a well-built, girlish figure. Living
a secluded life at the old club house nestling at the foot of the Gog & Magog
Hills, her success came as a great surprise to her. She entertains very strict
views upon the use of cosmetics. When the cheque arrives she intends to purchase a
new cycle.

1901

Owing to the appointment of Miss Annie Gowers from the infants’ to the girls’
department of the Haverhill Board School a considerable amount of friction has been
caused between certain members of the staff and the Board. Four teachers inserted a
notice in a local paper that the Board considered as being of a most impertinent
and insubordinate character. They have requested the teachers to send an ample and
full apology, in default of which to send in their resignations.

Thursday 18th January

1976

The Free Press public house, Prospect Row, Cambridge, is being sold back to Greene
King by the City Council. The tiny Kite-area pub, council-owned since the 1960s
when it was bought as part of a slum clearance area was due to be demolished to
make way for a road. That scheme was dropped in 1969 and now they are negotiating
its sale back to the brewery, which continued to lease the pub after the council
bought it.

1951

Local firms are amongst those to whom the De Havilland enterprise has paid public
tribute for their contribution in supplying parts for the two Comet jet airlines
whose achievements have been acclaimed throughout the world as an outstanding
example of British enterprise. They are Aero research of Duxford, whose ‘Redux’
metal-to-metal bonding is used throughout the airframe, Magnetic Devises, Ditton
Works, Cambridge who supply relays and Pye Ltd who developed micro-switches for the
plane.

1926

There were lively scenes in East Road, Cambridge, when another “sale” of goods
distrained by the Ouse Drainage Board for the non-payment of rates was to have
taken place. A “jazz band” quickly attracted a crowd to the scene and the sight of
30 men attired in top hats, paper hats etc, caused considerable amusement. Some had
toy trumpets, some hunting horns, some penny whistles while a few motor hooters
added to the “harmony”. Attempts to conduct the sale were drowned in a general
uproar and all the lots were withdrawn.

1901

For some time the Cambridge Borough Surveyor had hired a wharf in the L.N.W.R.
railway yard, principally for the purposes of stone breaking. The rent had been £2
but the Company now proposed to increase it to £3 per annum. The surveyor
considered it would be advantageous to continue the tenancy.

Friday 19th January

1976

The Cambridge pressure group Kite Community Action are making a half-hour
television film to be screened as part of the Open Door series and will put the
case against the proposed re-development of the Kite as a regional shopping centre.
They are trying to show something about the people who live there. The film will
show the kind of neighbourhood which is likely to be sacrificed in the interests of
motorised shopping.

1951

To most people Kneesworth Hall is just the name of a Home Office school which has
been mentioned in the press because one or two of its trainees have been before the
local courts. But in this pleasant country house there is in progress an important
experiment in the treatment of juvenile delinquency amongst boys of an intelligence
considerably above the average. Since it opened 18 months ago 41 boys have been
sent there.

1926

Sir – Years ago the owners and residents of Brookside, Cambridge, planned and built
their houses. Naturally these men were entirely ignorant of the future introduction
and rapid growth of motor traffic and innocently planned their property to the main
road in the form of a large parking place. Necessity soon decided that man should
chose sites as parking places for stationery traffic to shelter from danger, load
and unload etc, out of the busy road. Now an avaricious council espied the large
ready-made parking place and coveted it, causing its lawful owners such ‘nuisance’
as will eventually drive them from their homes. – Sympathetic Ratepayer

1901

The Cambridge British Schools removed to handsome and commodious premises in

Auckland Road abutting on Midsummer Common – an exceeding pleasant site where there
is plenty of light and fresh air. The common will in summer afford an excellent
playground for the boys and a playground for the girls and infants is laid out
within the confines of the school premises. Accommodation is provided for 706
scholars and the school is already all but full. Hitherto the scholars have been
educated at schools in Fitzroy Street but these buildings have become antiquated

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 22nd January

1976

Potatoes at 11p to 12p per pound are becoming a once or twice a week luxury in many
houses. The current wholesale price for 56lb of potatoes is £4.80 and the price
will go up at the end of the week. This time last year the price was 85p.

1951

A swiftly mounting red line on a graph beside the desk of Mr R.A. Price, manager of
the National Insurance Office at Cambridge shows vividly the effect of the flu
epidemic. So high has the line risen that it has gone over the edge of the squares
on to the plain margin. It shows the rate of flow of first medical certificates
given for the purpose of claming sickness benefit. Three weeks ago it stood at
about 270; last week it was 640 and now it is nearly 900 – more than double last
year’s peak

1926

The spectacle of a heavily laden steam waggon careering backwards down Fore Hill,
Ely, was witnessed by a large number of people. The waggon, owned by Messrs Clark
and Butcher of Soham was conveying a large quantity of flour and the driver was
unaware that as it was freezing the road surface resembled a sheet of uneven glass.
All went well until the waggon had reached the top of the hill but then although
the rear wheels were revolving they were not ‘biting’ the surface of the road. It
came to a stop and began to slip back. It gathered momentum and presented a curious
sight, the rear wheels revolving in the opposite direction but with no effect.
Sliding past Ye Olde Tea Rooms it skidded along the pavement and came to a stop a
few yards past the Rose and Crown.

1901

The wedding of George Colchester will long be remembered by the employees of Messrs
Colchester and Ball, chemical manufacturers, of Burwell, who all had a half-day’s
holiday to celebrate the occasion. All the men, numbering about 85, employed at the
Chemical Manure Works, Brickworks and Farm were entertained to dinner at the Anchor
Inn. A generous repast, consisting of good English fare was served. James Fabin,
the oldest employee, having seen 45 years’ service gave an account of the great
progress since he worked for Mr Thomas T. Ball who started the Manure Works.

Tuesday 23rd January

1976

As the Alcoholism Treatment Unit at Fulbourn reaches its first birthday Britain’s
chronic rate of alcoholism will reach a new peak. Nine years ago researchers found
alcoholism was “a serious problem in Cambridgeshire”. Their conservative estimates
then of 514 alcoholics in the county is now inaccurate. The figure is more likely
to be about 1,000. A National report shows an increase from 80,000 to 150,000 women
showing signs of alcoholism

1951
Cambridge town planning committee say there can be no justification for a spine
relief road between Histon Road corner and Jesus Lane merely to preserve for a few
years more buildings on the west side of Magdalene Street which, although of some
architectural interest, are sub-standard from every other point of view. Pending
demolition the commercial use of the buildings should be terminated, doing away
with the necessity for vehicles to wait outside

1926

Skating has been in full swing over the weekend. The Cambridge Sewage Farm has been
the rendezvous of the majority of skaters and on Sunday over 500 skaters were ‘on’
in the afternoon. Mr Nicholls’ field in Grantchester Meadows was flooded and many
skaters availed themselves of the opportunity it offered, whilst others went over
to Swavesey. Hundreds indulged in winter sports on the slopes of Royston Heath,
tobogganing and ski-ing were general

1901
The melancholy news, which everyone knew could not be long delayed, of the death of
Queen Victoria, was received in Cambridge in this brief announcement: - “The Queen
passed away at 6.30”. The Cambridge Daily News gave publicity to the melancholy
event to those who in Cambridge were waiting with anxiety for the latest
intelligence, and almost immediately telegrams were posted at the University Union
Society and at the Guildhall. The tolling of bells at many of the churches and
college chapels also served to spread the sad news and this morning the borough
bore a complete aspect of mourning for the loss of our beloved Queen. Royal
Standards are flying half-mast and black ties and other emblems of mourning are
being worn by members of the University and the townsmen

Wednesday 24th January

1976
Local authority planning has failed to stop the village of Bourn being “deflowered
and desecrated” Coun Peter King said. Ten years ago it was looked on as one of the
most beautiful villages, since then something had happened to desecrate it. In the
centre on a beautiful square of open space, 21 houses were being built. “Yet if any
village people want a little development they are turned down”, he said

1951

A large congregation assembled in Gt Shelford church for the dedication of the

memorial to the late Charles Edward Swift. The new organ screen replaces a set of
dummy organ pipes. He was headmaster of the Church of England school for 24 years
and church choirmaster for 20.

1926

An action for breach of promise of marriage was brought against a Littleport cinema
proprietor. In 1923 he started a concert party known as “The Passing Fancies” at
Littleport and toured a great number of places, the woman going with them. In the
August he bought the cinema hall for £2,000 and she assisted by taking the money.
In January 1924 he had received a box containing his mother’s effects. He picked up
his mother’s engagement ring, put it on her finger and said, “That’s your
engagement ring”. She had heard of his marriage in September 1925. The man said
that she was one of his “passing fancies”. The jury awarded her £400 damages.
1901

On learning of the decease of the Queen the bell-ringers of All Saints’ and St
Mary’s churches, Newmarket, rang a muffled peal. At Saffron Walden the news caused
the profoundest regret amongst the inhabitants. Union Jacks were at half-mast at
the Town Hall, the Conservative Club and the Volunteer headquarters and the tenor
bell at the church was tolled. Many were the expressions of sorrow and regret in
Haverhill; as early as possible a muffled peal was rung at the parish church and
flags in all available parts of the town were rung to half-mast. The Raiders’
(Tennis Club) Dance on Friday has been indefinitely postponed.

Thursday 25th January

1976

The fire risk and crumbling condition of the building at the Cambridge Cyrenian’s
community short stay hostel for down-and-outs in East Road has added new urgency to
their eight-year search for new premises. The chairman said: The building itself,
the bricks and wood, are falling to pieces. You could pour £5,000 into it and
achieve nothing. The dozen men living in the hostel all sleep downstairs because of
the difficulty of evacuating in an emergency

1951

Cambridge council agreed to a proposal that Mr Liddiard's garage on St Andrew’s

Hill should be pulled down and the space used as a private car park at £12 per
annum. Ald Priest said: “Here is a simple scheme whereby anybody who likes to pay
£1 a month can be reasonably assured of his car park any time of the day he likes”.
Ald James opposed saying those who started their business at 9am had no difficulty
in finding parking spaces.

1926

“I want to remind you that the Labour Party is not a party of Bolshevists, or
Communists, or Anarchists, or anything like that. Most of us are simple, honest,
straightforward men and women. We have absolute confidence that our party is the
part of the future”, said Major Freyer at a well-attended meeting organised by New
Town Ward Labour Party. He added: “I can assure you that the Liberals and
Conservatives on Cambridge Town Council are practically the same.” He believed the
essential services such as water, gas and electric power, and transport should be
community-owned.

1901

With the solemnities and ceremonies accustomed on like occasions, His Majesty King
Edward VII was proclaimed by the University of Cambridge in succession to Victoria,
the Well-Beloved. This morning, while the minute bell was mournfully tolling, while
black shutters were up at almost every shop window and flags were at half-mast,
crowds of scarlet-robed Doctors, sedate Dons and vivacious undergraduates were
hurrying towards the Senate House to take part in the ceremony of a lifetime – to
proclaim Edward VII King .

Friday 26th January

1976

The experimental ban on heavy lorries using the narrow roads of picturesque
Grantchester came into forced yesterday. Since 1972 villagers have been campaigning
for a ban on heavy lorries using their twisting roads as a short cut to the A10
London road. Prof. E. N. Willmer, the historian who led the campaign said he was
“well satisfied”.

1951

Cambridge council agreed that parking spaces should be marked out in Parkside and
Gonville Place and also that the paths on Parker’s Piece in front of Regent Terrace
should be used. Ald James said: We have to find odd spaces to put cars and if
anyone can suggest any we shall be only too glad to implement those suggestions.
Coun Proctor drew attention to the difficulties if proposal to use Hobson Street as
a car park were implemented. It was a very narrow street and even now, with vans
frequently unloading there, it was “a nightmare” for drivers of heavy vehicles who
went through the street continuously

1926
The Jockey Club appealed against the assessment of their racecourses and training
grounds at Newmarket. They have 20 appeals spread over various parishes and are
claiming that the gross estimated rental and rateable value of the property are
excessive. The cost of training was “getting on for double” of that of 10 years
ago.

1901

Amid every sign of loyalty and with great enthusiasm, Cambridge publicly and
impressively proclaimed King Edward VII. The unusual attraction naturally brought a
vast crowd together, winding their way to the Guildhall which was accessible to all
who presented themselves for admission and the building was soon crowded with a
throng of sightseers, the majority being in deep mourning.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 29th January

1976

Little Shelford has said “no” to further housing estates being built in the village
because, say the parish council, probably three-quarters of the residents of the
existing Courtyards estate seem not yet to have fully integrated into the village
community. The council feels Little Shelford should be allowed to keep its own
identity and not be merged with other villages or be over-developed.

1951

Car parking, which shares with the rates the distinction of being Cambridge’s
thorniest and most discussed problem, was the subject of lively debate at the
County Council. They passed a resolution viewing “with alarm the increasing list of
prosecutions … an indication that adequate facilities for visitors to the town from
the rural areas are not provided"” Dr Ellis described a police inspector’s now
often quoted remark: “Leave cars at home”, as facetious. Cambridge was the only
shopping town in the county and it was the authority’s duty to provide for visiting
motorists.

1926

The adventures of a lady’s new coat, ordered through the post were traced at Linton
police court. From Worcester the coat journeyed on its appointed way until reaching
Whittlesford station. Charles Walker, a parcels porter, said he conveyed the parcel
from the train to the parcel office. It was later placed in the booking hall to
await delivery. When the carman came for the parcels this one was missing. It was
later found at the 48 mileage on the Duxford siding.

1901

At the various places of worship in Cambridgeshire references were made on Sunday

to the death of the Queen. Special memorial services were held by the Salvation
Army at Sturton Town Hall which were of a most impressive and solemn character. The
hall was well filled, many present being deeply touched. At the close the band
played the Dead March, the whole congregation standing in respectful homage.

Tuesday 30th January

1976

Inadequate heating forced a junior school headmaster to move 30 children out of

their brand-new classrooms and back to the Victorian school building nearby. For
four days the exodus from the new to the old has been a daily event at great
Hormead Junior School, near Buntingford, because in cold spells children and
teachers find it impossible to work in the new extension. The problem was partially
solved when four new radiators were installed.

1951

Cambridge master butchers’ association discussed the question of opening hours for
members’ shops. The “new low” in the meat ration, combined with a lesser amount of
offal and sausages, made their position a difficult one. “Being open every day of
the week and constantly saying ‘no I am sorry’ to customers when they ask for
something makes both them and you browned off”, Mr P. Cousins commented. “They had
a duty to the public to keep open even if our customers have to come and fetch they
8d in a thimble tied with ribbon”.

1926

A Haverhill labourer sued his employer under the provision of the Agricultural
Wages Regulation Act of 1924 which fixed the wages for East and West Suffolk at 7d
an hour. He was offered a reduced wage of 18s per week which he was told he might
either take or leave. He did anything that came along including hoeing wheat,
making faggots, raising stone, spreading manure and turning over and tying up flax
put in the field. He had occupied a cottage owned by his employer but gave it up
when it was in bad repair. He could not remember that he had the delirium tremens
and that he pulled the tiles off the roof.

1901

Mr Cattrall said he was very sorry to find Newmarket behind other places as far as
the churches were concerned. He understood that both All Saints’ and St Mary’s
churches had neglected to drape on Sunday to mark the death of Queen Victoria. Why,
even in Ireland, they did so, and every denomination, including the chapels in the
town, had not failed in that respect. Mr Ellis said All Saints had been decorated
for Christmas and the question was whether the death of the Queen should displace
that.

Wednesday 21st January

1976

Cambridge City Council may soon start building low price houses and sell them
without profit to young couples on the council house waiting list. They are also
looking into the possibility of encouraging self-build groups with the help of low-
price land supplied by the council. The chairman of the Cambridge Labour Party
group said: We want to prevent large profits being made from private development
and give every one who wants to buy their home the chance of getting one”. The
council would not be changing its policy of not selling existing council houses to
tenants.

1951

The Ministry of Health has asked Addenbrooke’s Hospital to reduce capital estimates
and certain projects will have to be postponed The most important was the new
operating theatre, delivery wards and premature baby unit which it was hoped would
be built in 1952 at the maternity hospital. But authority had been received to
enter into contracts to acquire 43,895 acres of land lying between Hills Road and
Long Road for the site of a proposed new hospital.

1926

“A general feeling of dissatisfaction at Harston as to the supervision exercised in

quite an epidemic of scarlet fever in the village led to some questioning at
Chesterton Rural Council. A child had been sent home too early from the Isolation
Hospital and infected other members of the family who were now suffering from
scarlet fever. Provided there were no traces of peeling or discharges form the ears
and nose after six weeks isolation it was considered safe to allow a patient to be
discharged. The parent had kissed the child on the station platform when it was
discharged from the Hospital and did not realise how dangerous that was.

1901

The proclamation of Edward VII as King was read in front of the Town Hall, Saffron
Walden in the presence of a vast crowd of townsfolk, augmented by many people from
the surrounding parishes. The members of the Town Council, having robed, proceeded
to a platform in front of the hall. Bugler A.J. Badman sounded the fanfare, after
which the Town Crier called for silence for the Major. The town clerk read the
proclamation, & the Town Band played ‘God save the King’ after which the crow sang
a verse of the National Anthem with much heartiness. The Mayor then called for
three cheers for the King, which were lustily given.

Thursday 1st February

1976

The old signal box on the Cambridge to St Ives railway line at Oakington was loaded
on to a lorry and taken to the Bressingham Steam Museum near Diss. The box, one of
the few remaining Great Eastern types dating back to the early 1900s, was bought
several years ago by railway enthusiast Mr Mike Sharman, who lives at Foxton.
However he ran into snags when he wanted to move the box to his home so he
presented it to the museum.
1951

The Agricultural Land Commission have completed their survey of Swaffham Prior and
Burwell fens. They make proposals for improvements and repairs to equipment and for
the claying of a substantial acreage of the lighter soils, most of which can be
carried out by the owners and occupiers, and say there is no case for compulsory
acquisition for the greater part of the land.

1926

The County Council is to make representation to the LNER about the difficulties
occasioned by the gates at level crossings being unreasonably kept closed across
the road. There were places where the gates were closed for a few minutes and at
other where they were shut for something like 20 minutes before the passage of a
train. Councillor Pearson said it was not the fault of the gateman. He knew of a
gate-opener who was ‘on’ for 24-hours a day and the barber had to call to cut his
hair. It was not fair to ask a man to be on duty so long having regard to all the
traffic on the roads at the present day.

1901

Few spots in and around Cambridge have become more notorious for the number of
fatalities which they yield than the vicinity of Barnwell Junction and the stretch
of line between that point and the level crossing on the Chesterton side of the
railway bridge which spans the Cam. And probably nothing has ever surpassed in
ghastliness the gruesome discovery made there during the early hours of Tuesday
morning. The unfortunate victim was a telegraph linesman.

Friday 2nd February

1976

More than 100 people were turned away from Holy Trinity church when Cliff Richard,
pop star and evangelist, visited. About 700 people had already been admitted. Some
of them had queued in freezing conditions to be sure of a place at the service.
Earlier in the afternoon the singer had appeared in an evangelistic concert with
the Brightwinter Group at Lady Mitchell Hall. Some 500 people paid £1 a head and
the profit will go to a Christian charity.

1951

A pair of “Unity” houses have been completed on the council estate between Queen
Edith’s Way and Cherry Hinton Road. There are 48 three-bedroomed and four two-
bedroomed flats being built with a steel frame covered with concrete slabs in two
colours – buff and brown. Lattice steel floor joists are used to save timber. The
council have entered into a contract for these houses to speed up production and
augment their programme of traditional building.

1926

An unusual sight was seen in Cambridge when a hare at full tilt careered through
out crowded streets from the direction of Huntingdon Road. Ignoring the police
signal at Northampton Street ‘pussy’ tore along Bridge Street and through the
crowded traffic towards Hills Road. When last seen the hare was still running. Some
employers must have had a shock to see how fast their errand boys could travel when
there was something to chase!
1901

Great excitement was occasioned in the neighbourhood of Burleigh Street, Cambridge,

by an outbreak of fire on the premises of Messrs Prime & Sons, the well-known firm
of builders. The alarm quickly spread and only a few minutes elapsed before a
tremendous crow of people had assembled to watch the progress of events. It was
obvious that the efforts of the firemen and police were somewhat hampered by the
increasing density of the large throng of onlookers. The conflagration soon
illuminated the whole of the district, the flames hovering above the housetops in
alarming brilliance.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 5th February

1976

Because of its low unemployment figure Cambridge is a labour-importing city. Up to

£3,000 worth of government grants could be given to a man and his family in an area
of high unemployment to persuade them to live and work here. The new Jobcentre in
Guildhall Place has aptly been described as a job supermarket. An inviting window
display tempts people into the well-carpeted warmth. The centre employs 26 people
who find their work far more enjoyable now than ever they did in the days of the
Labour Exchange

1951

Three survived out of a crew of eight when a US Superfortress crashed and burst
into flames at Manor Farm, Abington Piggots shortly after taking off from
Bassingbourn RAF station. The survivors were in the tail unit which broke away and
somersaulted over the main wreckage into a neighbouring field. The crew inside
stepped out almost unhurt. Firemen entered the blazing fuselage in their search for
the rest of the crew. Exploding ammunition added to the danger of the work

1926
The clerk of the Conservators of the River Cam read a letter from the bank with
regard to their debt. The overdraft was £3,842, in addition to which there was a
loan of £4,000. The value of the Conservators securities appeared to be about
£1,500. It may be better to ask the Corporation to lend them the money
.

1901

There was an extraordinary scene at Gamlingay church. Mr Kensit and two Wickcliffe
preachers occupied a pew immediately in front of the rood screen. Everything went
on quietly until the point in the service where the bread and wine are blessed and
on the vicar raising the same and bowing a cry of “blasphemy” rang though the
church. Then the three objectors quietly stood up in their places. Mr Kensit said:
“As a loyal Churchman I protest against this service. This is blasphemous”. In a
moment the church was in uproar. Men ran from the choir stalls and surrounded the
protestors. They left the church followed by two-thirds of the congregation.

Tuesday 6th February

1976
The Government has no intention of turning Cambridge into a museum city, said the
Environment Secretary. He told MPs that fears that the Government-backed policy of
moderate restraint would mean stagnation were unjustified. It was no secret that
there had been differences of opinion between the city and county councils over the
proper planning policies to be pursued in the region. Growth would continue but
they could not countenance unlimited boon growth with the considerable impact that
would have on the Cambridge environment.

1951

A man, who sold ice cream from a van outside Lakenheath airfield and took the
opportunity to indulge in illegal purchase of American un-customed cigarettes, told
Mildenhall magistrates a hard luck story and broke down in court. A customs officer
said he kept watch on the van. About 10 American soldiers, whose PX or NAAFI was
quite close approached with cigarettes, some bought ice cream. Selling ice cream
outside an American camp is rather like taking coal to Newcastle, he commented.

1926

Ald Raynes told Cambridge town council that the centre of local government was
gradually shifting from the Guildhall to the County Hall. Mr Neville Chamberlain
would in time abolish the rural councils. Town councils would be given delegated
authority to function under the supervision of the county, which would be a very
serious thing.

1901

Mr Archer remarked that Ely was somewhat behind in expressing their loyalty to the
new King. It would be rather a slur if it were the only county which did not make a
proclamation. The High Sheriff had said the thought Wisbech was the capital of the
Isle. (Cries of “No, no”). It was the wish of the people of Ely that he come down
and cause a proclamation to be made

Wednesday 7th February

1976

Details of a mass fight fight between a group of Sawston “smoothies” and a rival
group called “greasers”, were given to Cambridge magistrates. To some people
“greasers” conjured up images of Marlon Brando types with leather jackets, many
were, in fact, perfectly respectable. The term refers to anybody who rides a motor
cycle, whether he be the local curate or the local villain.

1951

The latest in “export only” nylons have a narrow band of yellow woven above one
ankle to give the effect of a bracelet. One Cambridge store was able to offer a few
pairs for sale, and had no difficulty in selling them, although one customer bought
two pairs at 17s 6d a pair for the sole purpose of getting one bracelet-free pair
out of them. Her pair of nylons thus cost her 35s. The director of the store said:
“What a waste to make this fancy sort of thing when so many nylons are wanted for
the home market”

1926

Coun Few said they were very proud of the houses they had built in Vinery Road and
Coleridge Road, but they were now proposing to build houses that in a few years
would become a slum area. They would be spoiling Cambridge if they built non-
parlour houses with only one living room. They ought to consider the women who had
to live in those houses. “We men only pop in and pop out, as it were, we are only
lodgers; it is our working women who have to put up with them all the time. I call
that type of house unfit for human being to live in as far as the wife and children
are concerned”, he said.

1901

A great concourse of people assembled at the Clock Tower, Newmarket to hear the
King proclaimed. From the steps leading to the drinking fountain of the tower and
stretching out some eight or ten feet, a platform had been erected, and was covered
with Royal purple baize. The front was hung with the Union Jack. Children from the
three Newmarket day schools and those from Exning marched up the High Street and
were arranged in the form of a V, facing the platform.

Thursday 8th February

1976

Chips are one of those rare commodities that do not have to be sold by weight,
quality or recommended retail price. So what do you get in 1976 for your six
pen’orth. Well an old 6d won’t even buy you a squirt of tomato ketchup in some
shops. There is a growing tendency to sell ketchup and tartare sauce in sachets at
3p each. Nowhere in Cambridge could I find chips selling for less than 12p a bag.
Four shops had a 15p. minimum price. The most extreme difference in value were
between the Quality Fish Shop in Mill Road at 7oz for 12p compared to only 5 ozs
for the same price at Mike and Julie’s, Wulfstan Way and D.G. Munns, Old Chesterton

1951

There was good news for the villagers at Pampisford when the Traffic Commissioners
agreed to grant both the proposals of Premier Travel Ltd and the Eastern Counties
Omnibus Company for buses to Cambridge. The head teacher said many people found
walking to the White Horse, Sawston, was too far to be convenient for buses. Now
elderly people would only have to walk a mile to the bus stop.

1926

The circumstances attending the death of a stableman in the employ of the Cambs
Hunt, who lived nearly two days with a broken neck, were inquired into by the
Borough Coroner. The man had ridden his horse into a field to allow a steam waggon
to pass, and when he turned the animal round it kicked and threw him. The horse was
a hunter and perfectly quiet, a lady had ridden it. He died in Addenbrooke’s
Hospital

1901
The ceremony of proclaiming King Edward VII was carried out at Ely. The High
Sheriff in his official uniform read the Proclamation from the steps of the Shire
Hall and a procession then marched along High Street to the Market Hill where
thousands of people were congregated to hear the Proclamation again read. Every
point of vantage was seized upon and it was refreshing to see the much-maligned
Jubilee fountain proved to be a useful stand for sightseers.

Friday 9th February

1976

Council house tenants in East Cambridgeshire who get behind with their rent could
find themselves being moved to a remote farm cottage without hot running water.
There were some tenants who do not take their responsibilities seriously and are
quite happy to let the rest of society pay for them. The only alternative was to
provide a property which, although habitable, lacked the standard of amenity or
convenient location which most people now seek

1951

The Queen and Princess Margaret came to Cambridge on a private visit to their
favourite local antique shop. They came by road from Sandringham and the Royal car
was half-an-hour later than expected. It was held up for five minutes in a traffic
jam in King Street. The sight of uniformed and plain clothed police in the vicinity
of Mr Stanley Woolston’s shop drew a crowd to the spot and there were well over a
hundred people-mostly women with shopping baskets – waiting when the Royal car drew
into the kerb.

1926

A railway accident occurred near Ely station. The 9.41 pm slow passenger train for
Cambridge was proceeding to what is known as the branch up-road platform of the
station, to get on to the main line. At the Dock junction the engine collided with
the side of another engine which was drawing a goods train at a slow pace, bound
for London. Both engines were of the large type and the impact resulted in the
engines and a number of trucks and carriages being derailed. Fortunately there were
only a few people in the passenger train – only five or six and no one received
anything worse than a shaking.

1901

Sir: The directors of the New Theatre have under consideration plans for doing away
with what has most undoubtedly been a great discomfort. We refer to the fact that
we have not had enough space for men to smoke in between the acts. The rooms
provided are too small and, as a consequence, the undergraduates smoke in the
passages, the smoke pervades the house and the ladies are, in many cases, deterred
from coming – T. Hyde Hills

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 12th February

1976

Prince Philip is now the strongest contender for the Chancellorship of the
University. Informed sources have disclosed that Prince Charles was offered the
post but turned it down because of his naval commitments with HMS Bronington. Lord
Ramsey, former Archbishop of Canterbury, is thought to have declined the invitation
while Mr Selwyn Lloyd, recently retired speaker of the House of Commons, is still
regarded by many dons as too close contemporary politics to command unanimous
support. Prince Philip has for many years maintained a close formal and informal
interest in Cambridge and has seen Cambridge life from the student viewpoint
through unannounced visits while Prince Charles was up at Trinity

1951
The home help service has been a great boon in these days of dearth of domestic
help; and especially for the assistance it has brought in emergency to people who
could not in any case afford to employ permanent domestic help even if it were
available. There are 118 home helps in all, 69 in Cambridge and 49 in the rural
area. Recently the County Council decided to amalgamate the two services & Mrs H.K.
Paine has been appointed to run it.

1926

An unemployed labourer pleaded guilty to stealing a packet of ten Player’s

cigarettes, value 6d, from an automatic box. He placed in the machine a farthing
that had been cut down at the edge to the six of a sixpence and by this means
obtained the pack of cigarettes. George Lay, tobacconist of Burrell’s Walk,
Cambridge, said he had placed marked packets in the machine after finding
farthings, pieces of lead and foreign coins in the money box.

1901

As we tread the borders of the 20th century we wonder whether the people of the
year 2001 will find the railway train be a thing of the past because they are using
flying machines as a means of locomotion. Will the fact of sending a message along
a wire be deemed romantic at that period or will the telegraph appear to them as
old fashioned and romantic as the first efforts of telegraphy by means of wooden
arms do to us. The romance of looking forward is to us not to be compared with that
of looking back.

Tuesday 13th February

1976

A new piece of equipment designed to aid rescue work at the scene of an emergency
is now being used by Cambridge police. Called a ‘stem light’, it is a telescopic
floodlighting unit mounted on the top of one of the force’s vehicles. When extended
it supplies a brilliant light, thus helping rescuers at the scene of an emergency.

1951

By the death of Col Newton Phillips the British Legion has lost a loyal and hard-
working officer. In 1940 he was asked by the Lord Lieutenant to raise the local
home guard, and as Zone Commander he was entirely responsible for its formation. He
addressed mass meetings in order to gain recruits with a success that is well
remembered.

1926

“The town dweller is rapidly becoming the most helpless of living creatures; he
drives a tramcar or minds an automatic machine; she buys the family dinner ready
made in tin or packet. Country folks are hastening to follow suit, and all the
resources of the State have to be called upon in order to resuscitate agriculture
and the rural industries,” says the Chief Scientific Adviser to the Ministry of
Agriculture. He pleads that proper instruction in some useful handicraft should run
concurrently with the teaching of reading and arithmetic in our elementary schools.

1901

Haddenham Parish Council passed a resolution: “That the County Council be asked to
rebuild Aldreth Bridge at as early a date as possible, as the lack of accommodation
is an inconvenience and loss to the parish”. However it was not only a question of
re-building the bridge but of making the roads on either side. They were in a very
unsatisfactory state and unless these were repaired the bridge would be perfectly
useless except in summer. Chesterton Council said they would not repair the roads
and there was a strong feeling that Ely RDC would not repair them on their side.

Wednesday 14th February

1976

A village family, terrified by the ghost of a friend killed in a road accident, has
called in the local vicar to help remove its presence. The wife says the
poltergeist appeared at her home, tapped her on the shoulder, flung a cup to the
floor, opened and shut and electric oven and sent the pet cat screeching from the
kitchen. The spiritual visitor has frightened the couple and their five children so
they called in the village vicar who said a prayer for the deceased. The presence
has disappeared since the prayers were said.

1951

Despite official denials, rumours of a return to clothes coupons are gaining

ground. Women are buying sets of undies with that in view, remembered that
underclothes were the last to be renewed in the war-time rationing. Their buying
has spread to nylon blouses, nighties and underwear. “All the nylon will be going
into parachutes”, people are whispering. Housewives have started to hoard soap too,
for fear of a shortage.

1926

I am glad to record that the projecting clock near Downing Street, Cambridge, which
for many years pointed to “twenty to three”, has now been removed. St Paul’s church
clock, which was badly damaged by a storm last spring, is in such a useful position
between the town and the railway station that we would be glad to see it going
again. It hardly seems fair that the repair should fall upon the church, when it
exists largely for the passers-by

1901

Sir: It has been brought to our notice that certain disparaging remarks were made
at an Ely council meeting re the reception of the Ely Volunteers on our return from
South Africa. We were very sorry and indignant to hear of the sneers and remarks
made. When Mr Norman returns from a patrol up Cambridge Road does he require a
band? We came out here to fight for our country and never hoped for or wanted an
official reception. The only reception we want, and the best we can have, is that
we are sure to receive from the dear ones we have left behind. – Ptes A. Barnard,
S. Chapman, C. Cullum & A. Richardson, South Africa

Thursday 15th February

1976

The mystery of a walled-up tunnel in an old coaching inn at Great Chesterford is to

be explored by its new owners. It is believed the four-foot wide by six-foot high
arched brick tunnel leads form the cellars of the Crown House Restaurant to the
village church. But the passage is blocked by a four-foot thick brick wall from
floor to roof – built perhaps by Cromwell’s men. Charles II is said to have stayed
in the Crown House in the days when it was a main coaching inn.

1951

The death occurred of Rabbi Dr David Margules. He was arrested in 1938 by the S.S.
and taken to the notorious concentration camp of Dachau but fortunately released
within a few weeks. The indignities he had suffered left an indelible mark on his
mind, but did not change his innate kindliness towards all his fellow men. He came
to Cambridge in 1941 where he became the “honorary” Rabbi and devoted himself with
great zeal to supplying the religious needs of both residents and students.

1926

Mr John James Withers, C.B.E., was elected Member of Parliament for the University
of Cambridge. The Vice-Chancellor attended at the Senate House between the hours of
10 and 11 to receive nominations, Mr Withers was the only person nominated and at
11 o’clock declared him duly elected. A small body of interested members of the
University was present and Mr Withers turned up in time to hear his election
announced.

1901

An inquiry was held at Littleport on provision for a new burial ground. There was
now only room for 20 grave spaces and the Parish Council had decided to purchase a
piece of ground known as Dove House Close which adjoined the present cemetery. It
was rather near to houses, but they had obtained the sanction of the householders
and occupiers. The estimated cost was £1,500.

Friday 16th February

1976

Standing on the Royal housing estate at Eynesbury, near St Neots you could be on
any trim estate in any part of the country. The houses are comfortable and easy to
run with pleasant gardens and quiet, safe, roads. For some it sounds idyllic, but
for some women it proves just the reverse. They are the victims of “housing estate
blues”.

1951

Ten minutes after Friday’s funeral service of Mrs Grace Thurston, wife of the well-
known amusement contractor was due to start, the cars containing mourners were
still pulling up in front of Christ Church, Newmarket Road, Cambridge. In all there
were 20 cars bringing mourners and 30 additional cars parked near the church, which
was crowded for the service. At one time the funeral procession, which was headed
to the church by three flower-decked cars before the actual hearse itself, caused a
traffic jam more than a quarter of a mile long, and it took the efforts of two
police officers to get Newmarket Road normal again.

1926

Cambridgeshire Rural Community Council resolved to purchase three four-valve

loudspeaker wireless receiving sets at £20 each, to be sold to villages. They also
asked the Women’s Institute to sponsor a set, and they had recommended the villages
of Orwell and Elsworth. Orwell however, in view of their village hall enterprise,
preferred to wait. Ickleton Men’s Club had agreed to take one and it had been
ordered and would be installed immediately.

1901

An outbreak of fire occurred at the works of the Cambridge Brick Company, situated
between Coldham Lane and Newmarket Road on the outskirts of the densely populated
district of Barnwell. The fire attracted large crowds and the flames, aided by a
gentle breeze, spread rapidly, soon mounting in the air a distance of about a
hundred feet. In just over two hours everything had yielded to the flames and all
that remained was the damaged and broken parts of the valuable machinery.
Fortunately the conflagration was confined to the corrugated iron roofed wooden
building covering the machinery or the entire works could easily scarcely have
escaped destruction.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 19th February

1976

Travel to the Channel Islands from Cambridge and all you need to do is get a taxi
to Cambridge Airport. The airline services provided by Intra (Jersey) Airways began
in 1972. Until this season the airline used DC3s but have now introduced the turbo
prop Viscounts. Direct flights are also provided for the first time this year to
Guernsey

1951

After four years of observation and warning the NSPCC brought a young married
couple before the courts. Dr Silverstein said that he found only three forks in the
house, one knife and three cups. The kitchen was very dirty and a pram contained
only dirty rages. In the front room there was only one broken chair. In the bedroom
he found a double bed with the mattress soaked by urine and three blankets on top
also saturated. There were no sheets or pillows. The husband and wife and four of
their seven children slept in that bed

1926

Much of the water supply for Fordham is derived from shallow wells in close
proximity to groups of cottages, pit privies and refuse heaps. Almost all the 104
wells are liable to gross pollution and unfit for drinking purposes. In addition a
few houses are dependent upon unfiltered water from the river. The Medical Officer
of Health regards this as a grave potential danger and is of the opinion that the
only way of dealing with the matter is to provide an ample and pure supply for the
whole village

1901

Sir – the new Vicar of Gt Eversden belongs to the English Church Union and the
Confraternity of the Blessed Sacrament. He mixes ceremonially water with wine,
wears sacrificial vestments and burns candles in daylight. This is pure,
unadulterated Romanism. These practices were declared illegal by the Queen’s Courts
– Secretary, Protestant Press Agency, London.

Tuesday 20th February

1976

Orange squash and cakes were the order of the day at Priory Infants School,
Cambridge, when more than 200 youngsters celebrated the school’s 25th birthday.
Last month Miss Gwendolen Meadows celebrated 25 years as headmistress. There are
about 215 youngsters aged between four-and-a-half and seven years at the school.
Yesterday each class had its own cake

1951

The presence of American atomic bases was described as the “greatest immediate
threat to the existence of the British people” at a conference arranged by the
Cambridge Scientists Anti-War Group. The comments were received with a mixture of
applause and hissing. Mr Churchill had stated that the atom bomb was not made in
England during the Second World War because of the danger of bombardment.

1926

Linton RDC received an application on behalf of Clare College to a subsidy for the
erection of a pair of cottages at Ickleton. Mr Brocklebank said the grant was to
enable cottages to be built which could not be built if the grant were not given.
He could not conceive that the Mater, Fellows and Scholars of Clare College were
unable to afford to build these cottages. The council applied for permission to
borrow money for the erection of 12 cottages in the parishes of Carlton, West
Wickham and Hildersham.

1901

An Epson woman told the court she had entered service as upper housemaid to the
Vicar of Wicken and the agreement was that she should receive £24 a year. She was
turned out of her situation. No reason was given for sending her away. She was paid
no wages and told she would have none. The Vicar said she had declined to do what
was asked, which was to fetch coal. His Honour said that even if there was
impudence, there must be a month’s notice given & gave judgement for the plaintiff.

Wednesday 21st February

1976

Five members of the House of Lords went to a village near Huntingdon to see how
greyhounds chase and kill hares. They were to gain first-hand knowledge as part of
their investigation into hare coursing and whether it should be banned. Everyone
was on their best behaviour tyo make sure their Lordships went away with a good
impression. People shouted “Jolly Good” when hares got away, but when an anti-
bloodsport leader tried to take a photograph of a kill a gum-booted woman hopped up
and down in front of him to spoil his view

1951

Mrs Jean P. Silver has the distinction of being the first woman to be accepted as a
special constable for Cambridge. She will be issued with a uniform and receive a
course of instruction in police work generally. Her work will consist of help to
regular policewomen, at office work, enquiries, matters affecting women and girls,
and patrol duties. The Cambridge police force requires a limited number of women
special constables. They must be over the age of 30, and physically fit

1926

Sir – there is a need in Cambridge for duly authorised and well-informed guides in
order that numerous visitors may be properly conducted over the colleges. The
qualified guides should be supplied with a badge and a fixed charge made for their
services. They would be allowed in college buildings and other places where at
present visitors are not admitted. Intelligent disabled soldiers might be available
for such a job – A. Macintosh

1901

West Wratting parish council complained of the draughty state of the school, owing
to the windows always being kept open, whereby the children are constantly taking
cold. The Vicar replied that, as one of the school managers, he is ever ready to
listen to parents, or even to the schoolchildren, but the parish council should
mind its own business. The council is neither a father nor a mother, nor, he is
sorry to think, even a school child, though this is a pity as it is still young &
has yet much to learn. The council was quite at liberty to publish his letter with
their own impertinent letter to which it is a reply.

Thursday 22nd February

1976

In 1974 the Crawford Committee recommended Cambridge as an ideal centre for a

small-scale radio station but neither the BBC nor the IBA has included it in firm
plans. There is however some chance of improved stereo reception. The BBC says they
“hoped” that stereo transmission will begin from Tacolneston, near Norwich, in the
spring. A booster transmitter on the Cambridge gasworks for stereo was a “very
long-term project” for which there was no date.

1951

A new signal and wireless system for hospital patients, the first of its kind, is
being installed at the new maternity unit at Bowthorpe Hall, Wisbech. It provides a
two-way direct method of communication between the patient and the sister-in-
charge. It also combines normal radio, religious address and gramophone facilities.
Each patient is provided with a “pillow phone loudspeaker” placed under the pillow
or on the back of the bed and may talk through the thickness of the pillow even in
a subdued voice. The pillow phone can also be installed close to a patient’s head
and his breathing heard by the sister in the duty room, thus relieving her of
constant watching over the bedside.

1926

Sir – Cyclists and motorists who frequent the road to Sandy will probably have
noticed Barton church tower, nestling amongst the trees. It is in need of
considerable repairs. The east and west walls are badly cracked. There is a peal of
five excellent bells which it is considered unsafe to have rung with the tower in
its present condition. Barton is a small and poor parish. We have raised £200 for
repairs but are stuck for the last hundred. Perhaps some of your readers may feel
inclined to help us. – J.C. Carter, Vicar.

1901

The report of the Cambridge Volunteer Fire Brigade shows the number of calls
received during the year was 20. Nine were received at the central station through
the street fire alarms, two through the National Telephone Exchange system, eight
by ordinary messengers and one by police constables. Senior fireman Fuller, having
served upwards of 17 years has been made an honorary member, with permission to
retrain his uniform.

Friday 23rd February

1976

Tony McPhee, lead guitarist with the Groundhogs, is moving from his home near
Haverhill because the Department of the Environment has turned down his appeal to
keep a prefabricated recording studio he built near his house. He bought his
studio, which stores equipment including a £16-track recorder, because studios in
London are expensive.

1951

Do you know that by lifting up a telephone you can get details – free – of the
weather in Cambridgeshire in the next 24-30 hours. Mildenhall 2281 is the number of
the Meteorological Office on Mildenhall airfield. Details can also be obtain by
reply-paid telegram

1926

Amateur photographers will find a warm welcome at the exhibition of the Cambridge
Photographic Club. Mr Langdon-Davies has a very nice collection of oil prints,
which show great artistic feeling; his local scenes include St Clement’s church and
the University Press. Mr L.J. Jarman has a set of six prints, particularly pleasing
is his picture of snow on the Backs. Mr R.H. Bullen has four exhibits, of which
“Fairy Barges” strikes one as perhaps his best. The Misses M. & A. Johnson were
bold enough to invade the precincts of the club and were awarded with two excellent
impressions of Mr R.T. Bellamy, one being inscribed “The minutes of the last
meeting”

1901

Sir – it is reported that Mr Richard Parsons stated that I, the Rector of Elsworth,
“refused to hold a memorial service on the occasion of the death of the Queen”.
Such a statement is not the fact. My people are confined almost solely to the
labouring classes, and I therefore gave out that the memorial service would take
place on Sunday morning. The service was well attended. Mr Parsons is not a member
of the church, but of the Baptist Chapel here – H.K. Hutchinson, rector.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 26th February

1976

When Texas open the door of their new super-store at Coldham’s Lane on Saturday,
Cambridge will have the largest Do-It-Yourself centre in East Anglia. Spurred on by
the success of their year-old store which took over from Peaks Furnishers in
Fitzroy Street, Texas are sure that Cambridge shoppers will make extensive use of
the new premises, which are packed with all kinds of goods for the handyman.

1951

The husband of the caretaker of Lt Downham Baptist chapel who stole some coal from
a station yard dump in order to heat the chapel in preparation for a funeral
service found himself before the Ely magistrates. Two detective police kept
observation at Black Bank station and saw him wheeling his cycle, on the front of
which was a sack. He let go of the cycle, dropped the sack and ran away. The coal
was for use at the chapel. The Bench granted him an absolute discharge.

1926

A remarkable story of how a young coloured traveller bought war decorations for
sheer vanity & wore them at the Green Hill public house, Linton, was related at
Linton Police Court. Defendant was a native of Trinidad, the son of an eminent K.C.
in the West Indies. He asserted he had joined the West Indian Light Horse in 1920
and went to France, but then admitted he had bought the medals in Clapham for
1s.11d.

1901

The annual social evening of members of the Newmarket Jockey Club Owners’ and
Trainers’ Fire Brigade was held at Brigade headquarters. The brigade was as
efficient as any in the kingdom and there were plenty of men ready to enter. No
men were so hampered at work by people who were without the necessary knowledge of
how best to help as were the members of a Fire Brigade, and it was there that the
police came in, for they assisted by holding in check such well-intentioned, but
too-often unskilled helpers.

Tuesday 27th February

1976

300 children were evacuated from Duxford Primary School after one of the pupils
took what appeared to be an unexploded bomb to school. The nine-year-old found it
while playing near the former Battle-of-Britain airfield in the village. When the
Headmaster, Mr Peter Chivers, saw it he got it out of the school and called the
police. All the children were sent home for the day. Later the Bomb Squad
identified it as a practice rocket from World War Two.

1951

I learn that two Jesus undergraduates, one weighing 16 ½ stone and the other 12,
are to hold an eating contest. The competitors, who will have fasted from mid day,
will assail the Union’s five-course meal – and then work back again from the cheese
to the soup. Any proceeds from the admission charge will go to a charity.
1926

Householders in Chesterton Road have petitioned Cambridge Borough Council to lodge

protest against the speed at which vehicles of the Ortona Motor Omnibus Company are
driven down the road. “The effect of the excessive speed at which these jolting
juggernauts are driven is to produce an intermittent earthquake which is doing
great damage to our houses”. They should not be allowed to exceed 10 mph,
increasing to 15 mph when pneumatic tyres are fitted. The present indulgence, which
allows solid-tyred vehicles to bump along at 20 to 25 mph, is altogether
unreasonable, they claim

1901

During the past year two thirds of the water supply to Saffron Walden has been
provided from the new bored well. The council has accepted tenders for the supply
of a Worthington pump, rendering a breakdown nearly impossible and giving a
plentiful supply of pure water, sufficient for their requirements for some years to
come. The South Essex Water Board’s plan to abstract water would entirely dry up
some of the springs and streams feeding the river Cam and petitions had been
presented opposing them.

Wednesday 28th February

1976

Cambridge’s last links with serving members of the Royal Navy will be officially
severed next week when the Royal Naval Unit in Porson Road closes. It has been
involved in providing ‘guinea-pigs’ for psychological tests at the Medical Research
Council Applied Psychology Unit in Chaucer Road. Sailors from many parts of Britain
have come to Cambridge to take part in the tests. The Cambridge unit first opened
in 1945 at Parkside and moved to Porson Road in 1951. Research centred on the
effects of hot and humid atmospheric conditions – heat stress – upon work.

1951

A number of proposals to alleviate Cambridge’s parking problem have been compiled

by the Chamber of Commerce. They include the triangular site on the corner of
Silver Street & Queen’s Road used as a military car park during the war; the site
on Trumpington Road formerly occupied by army huts but now in temporary occupation
by squatters; at Castle Street opposite the Shire Hall and also on Butts Green
during the building operations at Lion Yard.

1926

Sir – as a business man obliged to use the railways I wish to draw attention to the
lack of punctuality of trains from the St Ives branch at Cambridge station. The
8.25 pm is invariably anything from a quarter to half-an-hour late, generally
waiting ten minutes at Mill Road bridge whilst room is being found to run up to the
platform. There is a rumour that the Ortona Motor Bus Company is shortly linking up
with the National Bus Company at St Ives. The railway companies grumble about road
transport competition, but it is their own fault and they have a remedy by being
more punctual with the passenger service – H.G. Parker

1901

Mr J. Buckenham, surgeon, public vaccinator for Cambridge, said he visited a house

in Cockburn Street and offered to vaccinate the child, but the mother declined to
allow him to do so. Her husband had a brother who died through vaccination and she
was strongly against it. She was fined 10s.

Thursday 1st March

1976

Workmen moved a few traffic cones and oil drums to open the £400,000 Bar Hill
flyover. Construction began last April after years of pressure from residents who
wanted improved safety for the junction between the busy A604 road and the village.
The turning point had become one of Cambridgeshire’s worst accident blackspots and
the interchange was planned to relive traffic hazards.

1951

Congratulations from the town, University and church were showered upon the
Cambridge branch of the Y.M.C.A. at a special luncheon to commemorate the
foundation of the birth exactly 100 years ago. The Mayor said he had personally
known the Y.M.C.A. for at least half of its existence in Cambridge and had seen
with great pride its growth. He referred to their object of helping in the
spiritual side of a young man’s life and their wish to make them grow up into
healthy, strong and virile young men. In the 1914-18 war they went to great lengths
to provide entertainment for the troops.

1926

The motor ambulance service in Cambridge continues to prove of great benefit and
increased demands have again been made both for accidental and private cases. An
additional motor ambulance has been purchased and has proved of great assistance.
The number of calls received was 701, 175 to accidents and cases of sudden illness
in the streets and 526 to private removal cases. The Watch Committee have excused
payment in several cases of private removals, where the persons were in necessitous
circumstances. The ambulances are available at any hour of the day or night upon
application to the Central Police Station or Fire Station.

1901

An outbreak of fire broke out at the Kennels of the Puckeridge Hunt, situate at the
residence of the Master at Brent Pelham Hall. The alarm was quickly given and the
Fire Brigades at Bishop Stortford and Buntingford were telegraphed for. In the
meantime men liberated some 16 couples of hounds and whelps, some had to be
literally carried out of the burning buildings. Onlookers attempted to stay the
fire with buckets of water but the building was totally destroyed.

Friday 2nd March

1976

The branch library at the Cambridge Shire Hall is to close down and will be
replaced once-a-week by a visit of one of the county council’s mobile libraries.
The decision to close down the library – to save an estimated £6,000 a year was
taken at the county budget meeting. A petition of more than 500 signatures of
readers asked for the building to continue. When a vote was taken there were 25 for
and 25 against and the decision was taken on the casting vote of the Chairman.

1951
A Littleport potato crisp manufacturer, carrying on business at Angle Works, Ely,
told the Bankruptcy court he had started at Ely in March 1949; in July 1950 he was
went with his wife for a holiday on a Mediterranean cargo boat. The business was
left in the hands of his father and a friend, neither of whom was experienced. He
came home to find the business closed down and most of the assets disposed of.

1926

Eighteen huge elm trees, which stood in a row on the north boundary of St Neots
Common, were blown down in last night’s storm, carrying away many telephone wires
and completely blocking the road.

1901

Chesterton Urban District Council met with the owner of the land hitherto used as
allotment ground and others concerned in the development of the estate for building
purposes and the making of the necessary roads. They had achieved one of the
greatest possible improvements that had been effected in Chesterton in their time.
The public must trust their representatives, with their fuller knowledge, to do
what was right. The council approved the making of a path from Aylestone Road to
Ferry Path, and the continuation and widening of Montague Road from Kimberley Road
to Pretoria Road. One row of houses would have their back gardens towards Ferry
Path. It was impossible to consider a 36-ft roadway because there would never be a
carriage bridge as it was near Victoria Bridge, but it was suggested that a row of
trees be planted to mitigate the unsightliness to the occupiers.

Looking Back

Monday 5th March

1976

At the age of 67, a man believed to be Cambridge University’s oldest undergraduate

has been excused the “undue hardship” of relearning Greek. The University’s cabinet
recommended a special dispensation after earlier declining to accept Mr Bernard
Greer’s 1926 school certificate Greek for the tripos. The grounds for exemption
were those of the “undue hardship involved at an advanced age and in a relatively
short period of time”.

1951

Last-minute disclosure of what councillors described as the “astonishing”,

“fantastic” and “mad” extent of proposed salary increases to chief officers of
Cambridgeshire County Council was made at a meeting. They involved increases of
some 50%. The council rejected proposals of which would have increased the salaries
of the Education Officer & County Treasurer from £1,460 to £2,200 & that of the
County Surveyor from £1,260 to £2,200. The new scales had been adopted by 22 other
councils.

1926

At the Licensing Session Mr Eric Pointer made an application for a new music and
dancing licence for the Assembly Rooms, Market Passage, Cambridge, from 1pm to
midnight. A complaint had been received on the grounds of the noise being more or
less a perpetual nuisance. During term time the noise and hubbub had been almost
unbearable. Not only was there shouting and yelling, but there was hammering as if
someone was tacking something up. There was plenty of accommodation for dancing –
the Central Hall, the Guildhall, the Corn Exchange and the Dorothy – and this new
licence was unnecessary. The application was refused

1901

The Cambridge University Volunteer Corps joined in a large gathering of troops at

Hertford for a series of tactical manoeuvres in connection with the Metropolitan
Volunteers, Public Schools and Hertford Corps. They paraded some 300 strong in the
grounds of Downing College and marched to the station. The special idea was the
seizure and holding of the bridges and ferries of the River Beane by an Eastern
Force against all attacks from an enemy. After the manoeuvres the Cambridge Corps
had a race to catch their trains home after one of the toughest days they have ever
experienced.

Tuesday 6th March

1976

A group of Cambridge young people are hoping to be able to fly their hot-air
balloon regularly this year, after spending more than three years designing,
building and redesigning it. The Cambridge Hot-Air Balloon Association consists of
about eight young men, several ex-pupils of the Perse school. The saga began when
George Laslett started experimenting with model balloons in tissue paper. By the
time they had progressed to building paper balloons of up to 1,200 cubic feet
capacity and flying them as an attraction at village fetes, they felt the time had
come to start translating their dream of a man-carrying balloon into reality.

1951

An agricultural conference at Cambridge expressed grave concern at the inadequate

meat ration allocated to agricultural workers. Even before the recent cut the
amount of meat given to them was not sufficient for their duties in all weathers.
In the town other industrial workers could eat in restaurants or buy fish and
chips, but farm workers were not able to take advantage of these facilities as they
were too remote. Speakers pointed out the advantage of British meat and said home-
produced beef meant less risk of foot-and-mouth disease.

1926

An application was made for the renewal of the music and dancing licence of the
Rendezvous, Magrath Avenue, Cambridge. Several residents objected on the grounds of
noise very late at night caused by cars, people talking, and the band and the
magistrates in renewing the licence curtailed it until 11 pm. Mr William Evans said
the dancing was absolutely letting the whole district down. There were working men
living in the area and their rest was being disturbed by motor cars until 1 o’clock
in the morning. People promenaded outside and he had known them sit on the step in
front of his house to do their courting.

1901

There is good reason for believing that before long St Andrew’s Street Baptist
Chapel, Cambridge, will be materially renovated. The Police Station has gone, the
Spinning House has followed suit and now the alterations of the last of the three
pre-historic buildings are in contemplation. The Chapel is not exactly a thing of
beauty and the removal of the present front in favour of one of greater
architectural beauty will be a welcome contribution to the aesthetics of Cambridge.
A committee has under consideration whether the present chapel should be “mended or
ended”. At any rate the present front must go.

Wednesday 7th March

1976

With its four-star grading proudly displayed the Garden House Hotel seems to be
changing for the better. The a la carte menu us comprehensive but expensive. Main
courses are priced at £3-£4 plus the cost of vegetables at 45p a dish. Starters and
sweets are priced between 50p and £1. We settled eventually for the table d’hôte
menu & our bill came to £12.60 and we thought the meal was disappointing for such a
highly-rated hotel.

1951

Damage by death-watch beetles to the tower of St Andrew’s church, Cherry Hinton, is

so serious that all the main beams in the tower will have to be replaced. The
woodwork in the rest of the church has already been treated with insecticide but
further trouble has been brought to light during repairs to tiles on the roof. They
were 250 years old and had in the past, as an economy measure, been turned over and
refixed instead of being renewed. Consequently they were now crumbling.

1926

Described by one witness as coming out of a cloud of dust at 50 miles per hour, a
motorist was fined £20 & had his licence suspended for a year for driving a motor
car to the danger of the public. Ernest Carter, the crossing keeper at Milton, said
he noticed a car coming from Cambridge at a fast pace. As it went over the rails
the passenger in the back seat bumped up about a foot. There was quite a lot of
traffic about. James Foreman, a bricklayer, noticed a car flash past him. He was
slightly deaf and had he turned round he would have been knocked down.

1901

The inhabitants of Over have shown that they consider the Vicar’s action in
dismissing the headmaster of the National School unwarrantable. Mr Handley has held
the post for nearly 24 years and has endeared himself to the parents of the
children by his kindness. A meeting was called to protest over the action of the
Vicar, but the solicitor of the National Union of Teachers having talked the whole
question over with him the rev gentleman agreed to withdraw his notice of dismissal
and give him Mr Handley a good testimonial.

Thursday 8th March

1976

A Surrey publican is trying to fill an entire block of flats at Newmarket with

licensees from all over the country. He believes the flats in the Moulton Court
block are very reasonably priced at between £12-£17,000 each but individual flats
are not for sale. So he has advertised nationally in the trade press for 24
“sporting ladies or gentlemen” to join him in making a bid for the whole block
which has been empty since it was completed about 14 months ago. Licensees are very
well in small does but when they gather together they are almost unbearably
ebullient. Moulton Road could become a very lively area of Newmarket – Chris South

1951

An appeal against refusal of permission for Messrs. Maudes caterers of 25 Petty

Cury, Cambridge, to erect a neon sign has been dismissed. The appeal related to the
display of a vertical neon sign above fascia level on the front elevation of a
dignified building. The Minister considers that notwithstanding the commercial
character of the locality, the sign is out of keeping with the buildings of
architectural and historical interest in the vicinity

1926

The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Mr Winston Church, has come and gone, but alas! he
has not revealed any Budget secrets, so we must possess our souls in patience a
little longer. His speech at the University Conservative Association dinner lasted
for one hour and 43 seconds, according to a gentleman with a stopwatch, and nearly
the whole of it was devoted to the menace of Socialism. Perhaps the least cheerful
point of his speech was that it would take the whole of the remaining three-
quarters of the century to recover from the harrowing events of the first quarter.

1901

Mr J. Kensit, described as a Wycliffe preacher of London, was to have appeared

before the Caxton Magistrates to answer a summons “that at Gamlingay church he was
unlawfully guilty of riotous, violent or insolent behaviour during the celebration
of divine service and did molest and misuse the Rev William Crouch”. Defendant did
not appear and the case was adjourned.

Friday 9th March

1976

He may be 82 but Mr Archibald Clark-Kennedy proved that he was just as good as the
other 778 competitors and one donkey when it came to completing a 25-mile cross-
country sponsored walk round Cambridge for Oxfam. A Fellow of Corpus Christi
college, he estimates that he has raised more than £50 for an activity he has been
supporting ever since the annual walk was started.

1951

In 1946 an architect, then working for the Ministry of Works, designed and built a
house at Lt Abington. He then decided to continue building and South Cambs R.D.C.
gave him permission to erect 44 houses on a nine-acre site in the village. At a
public inquiry the Cambridgeshire County Council (who took over planning powers in
July 1948) applied for an order revoking the permission. Because he could not get
licences for the 44 houses the man proposed to put up a prefabricated permanent
bungalow and keep 500 pigs. The enquiry heard form several people protesting
against the development.
1926

It is with great please that we are able to announce the arrival of what is hoped
will be a satisfactory and lasting settlement of the long-drawn-out dispute
between the men at the East Anglian Cement Works at Shepreth and their employers.
Yesterday, a day after the anniversary of the beginning of the strike the men
agreed to accept terms for the resumption of work offered by the Company. The
Company cannot employ all the men immediately but the manager will be instructed to
start as many as possible.

1901

Miss W—of Regent Street, Cambridge was summoned for causing an obstruction by
leaving some refuse tins in the street. P.C. Cole said he saw the tins outside her
premises at 10.11 pm and they were still there at one o’clock the next morning. She
said she placed the rubbish outside overnight because the scavenger came so early
in the morning – 6.35am - before she was up. The Chief Constable said something had
to be done to stop the practice of putting pails of rubbish out overnight. The
defendant was cautioned and dismissed.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 12th March

1976

Two Cambridge brothers have just completed 50 years in the bakery business. Maurice
and Dennis How, the bakers and confectioners in Mill Road started in the business
by chance after leaving school. “Our father, who ran the business, was taken ill
and had to go into hospital”, explained Maurice. “There was no one else to take
over and keep things going. When we started a large loaf cost four pence in old
money. Now the same sort of loaf is 17p”. Their father, Mr John How, started
business at Shelford in 1868 and moved to Mill Road in 1901

1951

Modern machinery has already done much to revolutionise food manufacture, and the
tremendous advances it has brought to bread-making – from the old days when a baker
kneaded dough all night in a hot, often unhygienic bakehouse, to today when bread
can be made between mid-day and midnight, entirely by machine and practically
untouched by hand, was demonstrated by Mr George Hawkins at the new automatic plant
for bread making installed at the Model Bakery, Parsonage Street, Cambridge.

1926

Prof B.M. Jones told a meeting: “I look forward to seeing in my lifetime a state in
which flying is as safe, and has the same order of expense as railway travel,
carried out at an average speed of 200 miles per hour, night and day”. Up to the
present the amount of flying done was not sufficient to affect the ordinary man in
the street & the flying industries were small but aeroplanes were reaching the
stage when they could take part as a real world force. He feared there was a big
future for aeronautics if there was another war

1901
A large field gathered with the Puckeridge hounds at the Red Lion, Reed. The recent
heavy rains had converted the land into a perfect quagmire. A mangy fox was found
in a field of green stuff near Therfield, and after a burst of a few minutes was
pulled over. For the most part it was fitful hunting, the hounds several times
being checked owing to the scent failing, although at times the pack ran extremely
well and at great pace.

Tuesday 13th March

1976

A new store, the Talk of the Town, is to open in Fitzroy Street, Cambridge in the
building formerly occupied by Peaks Furnishers. The store is divided into
individual sections, some let to local traders & some rented to national companies.
An Elizabethan Tea Room complete with period furniture and fittings and a wedding
dress section are on the top floor. The store has special design features such as
log cabins for changing rooms in the fashion section and thatched roofing for the
farm produce section

1951

A journey, in many ways reminiscent of those made during the war, was repeated by
members of the Romas Concert Party. This time it was not through the black-out to
some remote RAF site or searchlight emplacement, but to the Cutter Inn, Ely, where
they celebrated their reunion dinner. Over 500 shows had been presented for the
forces between 1940 and D-Day. They had overcome transport difficulties by
commandeering a meat van with a pheasant on the side.

1926

The Bankruptcy court was told a woman had taken the Glengarry Hotel, Regent Street,
Cambridge, in January 1921. It was entirely a licensed University lodging house for
the students of Downing college only and continued so until 1924. It had not been
successful owing to the college being unable to fill all the rooms. Subsequently
she converted it into a private commercial hotel and made a profit of about £2 a
week. The major part of the deficiency arose while it was a lodging house.

1901

Great regret will be expressed at the death of Sergeant Wm Edwards Bulman. At the
end of 1899 he was a sturdy yeoman, robust in health, who volunteered to help his
country through the South African trouble. On one occasion the order to retire had
been given but he did not hear it and his men kept the Boers at bay until their
last round of ammunition had been fired. Then they had to crawl away and regained
the company in safety. He became a victim of enteric fever which caused his
premature return and was without doubt the primary cause of death.

Wednesday 14th March

1976

Denny Abbey, the 12th-century monument near Waterbeach, is to be opened to the

public as soon as possible. Original plans to allow the public access at Whitsun
have had to be scrapped because of the economic situation and problems about
getting staff. Conservation work has been going on for some 16 years. A new wooden
stairway and walkways have been built inside the main part of the building. The
Abbey dates back to 1160 but in more recent times were converted for farm use and
are now the responsibility of the Department of the Environment

1951

Cambridge Council is to recommend a scheme for a multi-deck car park at the Lion
Yard. The Surveyor suggests all adjoining property owned by the council should be
demolished, the opportunity being taken to widen Corn Exchange Street and St Tibb’s
Row and that the possibility of further extensions to St Andrews Hill for offices,
shops or increased car park facilities should be borne in mind. He submitted a plan
showing a building of six floors which could accommodate 825 cars

1926

A Cambridge school girl died of small-pox at the Infectious Diseases Hospital, Mill
Road and as a result the East Road Boys’, Girls’ and Infants’ Schools have been
closed for at least a week for disinfection. The Medical Officer strongly advises
people to get vaccinated. The last outbreak occurred in 1921 when a man was
affected. There was also an isolated outbreak in 1919

1901

Presentations were made to the Rev Monsignor Scott, Rector of the Church of Our
Lady and the English Martyrs, Cambridge, in recognition of his recent appointment
by the Pope. The Bishop of Northampton presided over a large and influential
attendance. The honour that had been conferred was that he was appointed domestic
prelate of his Holiness, so certainly it was the action of the Holy Father himself
who had deigned to look upon this poor diocese and kindly raised to a high degree
the Vicar General. The conferring of the dignity of prelate did not imply he was
leaving them. (Applause)

Thursday 15th March

1976

The possible closure to through traffic of Arbury Road, Cambridge, will be

discussed by the city council. Some councillors have been pressing for years for
the road closure as a way of improving the environment for people living in the
Arbury area. The road is, at peak periods, one of the busiest in Cambridge with
commuter traffic. The suggestions are certain to cause a storm of protest. The main
objection will centre round the claim that a lot more traffic would be pushed on to
the already busy Gilbert Road.

1951

Approval of the layout of the new housing estate between Gilbert Road and Arbury
Road is to be recommended by Cambridge council. Sites are provided for three-storey
flats, semi-detached and blocks of four houses, a church, community centre, shops,
cinema, public house and a nursery school.

1926

To the average man, a mannequin parade presents characteristics which combine to

embarrass the most strongly minded. He is overwhelmed with the importance eof the
occasion and metaphorically “smothered” by the bevy of beauty which confronts him.
No cheque book could have been greatly taxed at Messrs Sayle and Co’s two parades
as the moderate prices were an outstanding factor. It was an excellent
demonstration of what really can be done for a modest expenditure and record
attendances marked both the morning and afternoon displays. We look forward to a
parade of men’s wear, when the ladies may blush in their embarrassing minority!

1901

Mr Redfarn, the managing director of the Cambridge New Theatre, having found
difficulty in enforcing the regulation that no smoking should be permitted in the
auditorium or public passage, applied to make certain structural alterations. They
consist of the enlargement of the present smoking room on the first floor and
provision of a new smoking room and bar on the ground floor. There were two bars
already and the new one would appear in a remote corner

Friday 16th March

1976

Both visitors and staff at the Cambridge County Record Office, Shire Hall, are
still having to put up with overcrowded conditions. One visitor has described
conditions as “the worst of any record office in the country”. The county archivist
says in his annual report that there has been no improvement in office or search
room space. One woman who had been offered a post on the staff had declined it
because of the overcrowding which she had observed.

1951

The roadway at High Street, Chesterton, will be improved at an estimated cost of

£1,300. Coun G. Edwards said that having lived there for nearly 71 years he
realised the gravity of the position. “This bottleneck in the High Street coming
from Chesterton Road constitutes one of the gravest dangers in the borough. The
setting back of the wall and making the corner into Union Lane a little wider would
be a godsend to the residents”, he said

1926

Much damage was done by a fire which broke out in a shop occupied by Thomas
Stubbings, a dealer in new and second-hand furniture at the corner of Tanner’s Lane
and Sand Street, Soham. The firemen soon got to work, but the fire had such a hold
that nothing could save the contents so they turned their attention to saving some
of the five houses adjoining. There was a shed at the back of the shop in which
were stored a quantity of paraffin but by keeping the building wetted this was
saved.

1901

A shocking accident occurred at the Panton Brewery, Cambridge, when one of the
brewery employees lost his life. The man fell into the copper which contained a
large quantity of boiling liquid and was frightfully scalded. He scrambled out as
speedily as possible but even then it was seen that his injuries were so awful as
to leave little hope of recovery. He died from shock the following morning.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 19th March

1976

Cambridge pubs and beer gardens teem with tourists on hot summer nights – until
shortly after 10.30 pm when local licensing laws decree that pub life must come to
a sudden stop. But, as holidaymakers climb into their guest house beds, the
evening’s revelries are still in full swing in Wicken, Snailwell and Woodditton,
not exactly cosmopolitan centres of jet-setting sophistication but villages allowed
by local licensing laws to stay open until 11 pm from Monday to Saturday

1951

In twelve minutes on Saturday Cambridge town council took the first step to acquire
city status for the borough, and thus to remedy a situation which makes the town
the only ancient seat of learning in England and Scotland to be without a title.
The twelve minutes was the time taken to introduce and pass at a special meeting of
the Council a resolution to submit to the King a petition to grant to the Borough
the title of City. It would make no difference to its status, powers or otherwise
in the field of local government

1926

Hudson’s Pampisford Brewery applied for the renewal of the licence of the Dog and
Gun public house, Saffron Walden. Inspector Ridgewell said there were three
licensed houses within 100 yards and the situation was generally bad. There were no
sanitary arrangements on the premises. There had been a decrease in trade from 61
barrels in 1921 to 41 barrels in 1925. The principal trade was done on market day
when they supplied dinners and bread and cheese. The persons using the house were
generally working class. The licence was renewed.

1901

Two new classrooms at the primitive Methodist Chapel, Sturton Street, Cambridge,
were formally opened. The space available at the chapel for teaching the scholars
on Sundays has long proved inadequate and the extra accommodation will furnish room
for at least fifty persons and may be expected to meet the requirements for some
time to come. The opportunity was also taken of entirely renovating the interior of
the chapel itself, which has been furnished with new seats, and the ceiling covered
with match-boarding.

Tuesday 20th March

1976

One of Cambridge’s best-known characters, Trevor Hughes, was rescued by firemen

from a blazing room in a derelict house in East Road. He was found choking in a
smoke-filled room at the back of the old headquarters of the Cyrene Community.
Trevor, the elder statesman of the Cambridge dosser community, is well-known to
shoppers in the Market Square where he sits daily by the fountain.

1951

An appeal for the introduction of “a colossal scheme of temporary housing” to try

and surmount the present housing difficulties in Cambridge was made by the chairman
of the Cambridge Housing Society. The need for two-bedroomed houses is still
desperate and young married couples with no children who applied for a council
house in the latter part of 1946 still have to wait two or three more years, they
report

1926

Newmarket council considered an application in respect of a proposed new cinema at

Stamford House, High Street. Mr C. Reeve said the council should consider their own
“white elephant”, the Memorial Hall, on which they had lost £200-£300 a year. And
they ought not to take building men off the necessary work of building cottages for
the people, this application could wait. Mr Dring said it was time there was
something more up to date; the application would improve the house and employ
labour. There were plenty of men to build the cottages and build the cinema as
well. The licence was granted.

1901

It is now nearly three years since the failure of Mr E.T. Hooley. In view of the
magnificence with which he continues to enjoy life, inquiries have been made by a
‘Daily Mail’ representative. He has, besides his suite of rooms at Walsingham
House, his two country estates, Papworth Hall and Risby Hall and pays wages to his
servants, gardeners and grooms more than £6,000 annually. He has scores of
gardeners at Papworth alone and is constantly adding to his estate. This princely
bankrupt is not living at the rate of less than £15,000
yearly.

Wednesday 21st March

1976

In the past the Green Dragon at Chesterton has not lived up to the expectations of
its distinctive sign. All this has been changed by extensive alterations which have
transformed this Greene King pub from a cosy but unremarkable establishment into a
comfortable open-plan rendezvous which has all the modern comforts without
destroying the atmosphere of a very old business. A new extension provides new
toilets to replace the old outside toilets “across the yard”

1951
Cambridge has some 150 inn signs hanging outside licensed premises. It is probable
that Cambridge was the first place where public house signs were made compulsory by
law. An Act passed in 1430 laid down “whoever shall brew ale in the town of
Cambridge with intention of selling it must hang out a sign, otherwise he shall
forfeit his ale. The Eagle and Child in Bene’t Street was called by irreverent
undergraduates “The Bird and Baby”. There was also a “Swan and Sugarloaf”, (now the
Still and Sugarloaf) which was nicknamed the Duck and Acid Drop.

1926

At Newmarket council Mr Dring called attention to the case of small-pox at

Cambridge and asked what measures of protection there were against the disease
being imported into Newmarket. Small-pox might be brought in railway carriages.
Could these carriages be disinfected. The Medical Officer said it had not been
overlooked.

1901
At Caxton Petty Sessions the court was completely packed for the summons against
John Kensit for brawling in Gamlingay church. He was away in Ireland assisting his
father in a Protestant crusade and not able to be present in person. Defendant’s
solicitor objected to all the magistrates on the Bench on the grounds they were
prejudiced and biased. They convicted Kensit on a charge of indecent behaviour and
ordered him to pay a fine of £3

Thursday 22nd March

1976

Six primary schools in Cambridgeshire villages may have to close next year. Schools
at Woodditton, Kirtling, Chippenham, Horseheath, Quy and Madingley have been
shortlisted from a number of schools with less than 75 pupils which the county
council feels may no longer be viable for educational or economic reasons. Other
schools with few pupils include Ashley (30 pupils), Black Horse Drove (40), Castle
Camps (55), Dullingham (30) and Stuntney (40)

1951

The Cambridge Plate Glass Mutual Insurance Society has reached its centenary and
this important milestone is being observed by the waiving of premiums for 1951. It
was founded to defray the expense of accidents to plate glass windows and the first
meeting was held at the King’s Head Inn, Sidney Street.

1926

The Rural Council heard that Sawston had enlarged and new cottages were badly
needed. The Chairman thought they would be built for the factory hands & it was
wrong that the taxpayer should be asked to shoulder the burden for the increasingly
prosperous factory. Mr Bowers said if the Council wished industries to increase and
prosper it was up to them to provide new homes for workmen. Men would not seek
employment where no proper houses were to be found. Mr Eccles said the cottages
were wanted for people who were at present living in hovels.

1901

A meeting to decide upon what steps should be taken should the five shillings rise
in wages which the Newmarket stablemen are asking for not be given by the trainers
was held in the Wagon and Horses Inn, Newmarket. Every candidate for admission was
carefully scanned before he was allowed to enter and our reporter was only admitted
on condition that the names of the speakers were not published. It was estimated
that between 300 and 400 “lads” were present, and many more were unable to gain
admission. The chairman said £1 a week was not a living wage in an expensive town.
Even single men could not live properly. They should all stand out for their 25s.

Friday 23rd March

Isleham’s Methodists are having to hold services in their own homes as a result of
the closure of the village’s 136-year-old chapel after cracks appeared in its north
wall. The small, clunch-build chapel stands perched on the edge of the village’s
old clunch pit. The congregation usually numbers about 20.
1951

The annual ceremony on top of Cambridge castle mound at 7.30 am on Eastern Sunday
morning is becoming traditional. The company sings ‘Christ the Lord is Risen Today’
and then asks for God’s blessing on Cambridge and its people. The event originated
with Victoria Road Congregational Church and was intended to be a simple act of
cheerful witness to the Easter message. Now it is attended by people from many
churches. It has been held annually for the past five years and attracts around 50
people. It is strangely impressive to look over the quiet town in the light of
early morning and to hear the words of Christian faith lifting from the hilltop to
be carried far and wide.

1926

Sir – I shall be grateful if you will allow me to call attention to the urgent need
of a gramophone for Stanton House (Cambridge Shelter for Women and Girls). There
can be no doubt as to the desirability of providing counter attractions for the
girls who seek amusement in the streets but it is not easy to do so without some
form of music. An unused gramophone (or still better, an old piano) would be most
thankfully received – Shirley Blanch

1901

The Department of Trade reports that although snow and wet weather interfered in
some districts with work on the land, such as ploughing, sowing and harrowing,
generally speaking, agricultural labourers were well employed during February at
such work as manure carting and spreading, hedging, ditching, threshing, wood
cutting, road mending, looking after stock and assisting at lambing. In
Huntingdonshire field work was generally carried on without much interruption.
Agricultural labourers in Cambridgeshire were generally well employed and in the
Royston Union a short supply is reported

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 26th March

1976

The bells can ring out from St Cyriac’s in Swaffham Prior once again – but they
will call the villagers to worship in the neighbouring church of St Mary whose
tower was not strong enough to take the strain of the bells. Now the sound of St
Cyriac’s bells mark the end of extensive restoration by the Redundant Churches
Trust & the villagers can make suggestions on the future use of the building.
Similar churches have been used as concert halls, folk museums or wedding reception
halls. St Cyriac’s was last used for services in 1902,

1951

In its hundred years of history the Varsity boat race has seen many strange results
but never such an astonishing fiasco as that experienced on Saturday. It was the
only race of them all in which a Varsity crew have had to leave their boat and swim
for it soon after the start and the umpire has therefore declared the race void.
The Oxford crew could not be picked up before their boat had overturned and several
of them swam to their launch while others clung to the upturned boat until they
were pulled out of the water. The Light Blues paddled to the Boat House and had
difficulty in lifting their craft out of the water because of the weight of water
inside it.
1926

A dissertation on a chimney delivered in a pompous manner was one of several

features of the meeting of the Cambridge town council. They sat for just over four
hours without a break and on many occasions feeling ran high. Clashes between
Labour members and others were frequent. Everyone was tired and hungry but a
proposal to adjourn for a cup of coffee was defeated and the Council proceeded to
the bitter end. Two Aldermen and several Councillors rose and left the room as Mr
Purvis was speaking about repairing the chimney shaft at the sewage farm.

1901

My commission was to go to the Guildhall and having duly observed both men and
things to put down my impressions, without fear or favour. With feelings akin to
awe I approached the Council precincts and entered the chamber where the elders of
the town engaged in high debate. Comfortable and commodious it was evidently
designed to render the labours of the councillors as pleasant as possible, with an
air of quiet repose and dignity. I had hoped for some little show of stately
ceremony, but shambling and shuffling were the order of the day and the meeting
began as it ended in a spirit of haste and lack or orderliness.

Tuesday 27th March

1976

Marcus, a three-year-old Shire horse will soon become a familiar sight at Orwell
when his owner, coalman Alan Neaves, uses him instead of a lorry to deliver coal in
the village. Before becoming a coalman nine years ago he used to work with Shire
horses at West Farm, Orwell. “Since then I’ve always wanted an excuse for having
one”, he said.

1951

Thieves smashed a shop window of G.D. Pickering, watchmaker and jeweller of King
Street, Cambridge, in the early hours of the morning, but from a window display of
£200 worth of goods all they took were two ladies’ watches, valued together at £9.
The robbery is believed to have taken place at 2.30 am because neighbours heard the
breaking of glass and a car revving up quickly. A car starting handle was left
behind, and it is thought that this was thrown at the window.

1926
At Cambridge council discussion took place upon the proposal to purchase some land
at Coldham’s Lane where St John’s college were prepared to sell 21 acres for the
sum of £5,250. They could get 86 houses and there would be land for allotments at
the back. At this stage Councillor Briggs returned to the Council Chamber with a
paper bag and members of the Labour party were soon seen to be eating chocolate.
Councillor Amies drew attention to the “picnic party” and asked them to make a
little less noise. (Laughter). Councillor Edwards: “I think they might practice
Socialists and pass it along”. (Renewed laughter)

1901

Cambridge may be justly congratulated on her County Councillors. The meeting was
opened and conducted throughout in a very business-like & decorous manner. Good
nature, a courtly yielding to others and a desire to be conciliatory seemed to be
general. The language was decidedly moderate. Another noticeable feature is the
large number of young men on the Council. Youthful spirits will go on working
cheerfully instead of mournfully shaking their heads and eternally speaking of the
“good old times

Wednesday 28th March

1976

The first of three aerials for the operation of a radio call-out system for mid-
Anglia’s “Flying Doctor” service was erected at Hill Farm, Fulbourn, at the
weekend. This follows the Home Office decision to grant a licence to the Cambridge
Medical Answering Service for a radio paging and telephone system for the Mid-
Anglia General Practitioner Accident Service. The new service should be operating
in about a fortnight

1951

Councillor L.T. Smith objected to the money spent on planting trees on housing
estates at Cottenham where four trees cost £3. He said: “I think it is a scandalous
thing. At Cottenham we are full of trees and we had to waste the architect’s time
to come and plant these. If we had brought the rents down only a penny a week it
would have helped people much better”

1926

The action of the Master of the Cambridge Workhouse in ordering without authority
the fixing of five extra wireless plugs evoked an indignant discussion. The
Wireless Committee reported that they had provided for 12 plug points, one of which
was in the Master’s dining room. He had ordered five extra, including one in his
drawing room and another in his bedroom. Mr Lofts asked: “Does the Master want
singing to sleep” (Laughter). They did not consider it necessary for the Master to
have three plugs in his own quarters and they should be removed.

1901

Cambridge police court is bright and lofty and admirably suited to its purpose. So
strictly is order maintained that one might have heard the proverbial pin drop,
although the crowd of onlookers was much larger than usual and drawn from the noisy
section of the town. The case was one of ‘hooliganism’, the prosecutor having been
assaulted to such an extent that “the blood flowed from his ears and nose and mouth
like steam from an engine”.

Thursday 29th March

1976

A 21-year-old Cherry Hinton man was sentenced to 120 hours of community service at
Cambridge Crown Court. It is the first time such an order has been made in
Cambridge. The community service scheme, under which offenders are given work in
the community under supervision as an alternative to imprisonment, comes into
effect in the Cambridge area tomorrow.
1951

After a lull of about a month another outbreak of fowl pest has occurred at
Meldreth, where some 200 birds have had to be destroyed. The outbreak, the first
reported since that at Rampton, brings the total number to 38. Some 22,000 birds
have been destroyed. Last week the total of birds slaughtered in the Isle of Ely
was more than doubled by an outbreak in a big flock at Manea.

1926
Damage to the amount of about £3,000 was done by a fire at a large granary in the
station yard at Royston. It was very difficult to get a sufficient pressure of
water and the whole of the vast storehouse was soon in flames. A railway elevated
siding became involved, the metal rails twisted into grotesque shapes by the great
heat. Nearby were some petrol tanks belonging to the Anglo American Oil Company; a
band of volunteers secured the cans of petrol and deposited them in some gardens at
a safe distance from the fire

1901

The demand of the stablemen of Newmarket for an increase of 5s weekly upon their
present wages was refused by the employers and between 500 and 600 of the men
struck work. Only one trainer, Mr Robert Sherwood gave the 25s and in the evening a
large body of employees of other stables marched to his house and cheered him again
and again. All through Saturday police were drafted into the town. Pickets were
sent out to various stables but at only one were men at work. Comparatively few
horses were out at exercise, ridden by house lads and apprentices who are not
affected by the strike.

Friday 30th March

1976

Angry Fowlmere villagers claim that the village has been singled out as the only
location for South Cambridgeshire District Council’s “sin bin” scheme, placing rent
defaulters in sub-standard houses. Parish Councillors Mrs Janet Greenwood said
villagers were disappointed that the council had spent £7,500 in preparing the
derelict cottages for defaulters when there were sub-standard council houses in the
village whose tenants paid their rent. “There are about 20 unmodernised houses, six
of which have earth closets”, she said

1951

As a nearby loudspeaker blared out the song, “My heart cries for you”, 200
fairground attendants at Thurston’s fair, parked on Midsummer Common, Cambridge,
watched anxiously for a break in the weather on Easter Monday and the crowds that
normally throng the common for the opening of the fairground season. The break in
the weather did not come; neither did the crowds, and Bank Holiday Monday became,
for the showmen, Black Monday. Takings were at an all-time low, total receipt
amounted to only £9. A brand new £17,000 dodg’em car ride’s taking amounted to only
a few shillings – a fraction of the running costs.

1926

At the County Agricultural Committee Mr Amos said a tremendous amount of damage was
done by rats and at the University Farm they had recently killed between 1,000 and
1,500 of them. Mr Taylor said a rat jumped on one of his students and scratched his
face. They had killed 5,000 rats since harvest, they are all over the fields. Mr
Pearson: “I think everybody who had land should be paid 1d or 2d per rat. Nobody
has got the time to catch rats unless they are paid for it.”

1901

The Newmarket stable employees who are on strike held another meeting at the Waggon
and Horses Inn at which 3-400 were present. A well-known trainer had suggested
giving single lads 20s per week and married men 20s with the addition of 1s for
each child, until a maximum of 25s was reached. The suggestion was absurd, they
would accept nothing less than 25s unconditionally. Apprentices only received from
2s.6d. to 5s a week and their board and lodgings. Training was not a bad game. Look
at the number of servants trainers had in their houses, the cigars they smoked, the
wines they drank, and the way they lived generally.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 2nd April

1976

A quick morning’s visit by comedian Dave Allen and a television crew to the
Haddenham Farmland Museum unexpectedly became a full-day’s filming. The original
plan was to feature the museum in a six-minute slot for a half-hour documentary
programme, but when they arrived they were faced with a blacksmith, needlecraft
specialists and a brass band, many of them pupils at local village colleges. They
had to play at less than normal volume so they did not drown out the filming of a
conversation between Dave Allen and Craig Delanoy, the 11-year-old founder of the
museum.

1951

Unfortunately the sight of flies swarming over the fish on a fishmonger’s slab is
still a much too common sight in the summer. It always horrifies me to see food
exposed to flies and dust from the street and likely to be fingered or breathed on
by prospective customers. I am pleased to report that one of the new refrigerated
display cabinets for wet fish has been installed by Mr F.O. Sennitt, Peas Hill,
Cambridge. I understand it is the first local fish shop to do so. The shop has also
installed a machine with the same system of refrigeration for poultry and dry fish,
which will be welcomed by all housewives

1926

Something of the progress of Trade Unionism in Cambridge was indicated at a meeting

of the Workers Union at which 150 members participated. Twelve years ago there was
hardy any trade unionism in the town, with the exception of the craft unions.
Agricultural workers had met with tremendous disappointments. The Wages Board had
sent the wages of agricultural labourers up from 12s (60p) a week up to £2. Then
had come the scrapping of the Board, wages went down to 25s (£1.25) and the worker
was faced with the wreck and ruin of his home. The men had lost faith in trade
unions.

1901
On Sunday morning the stable employees on strike at Newmarket met at the Jubilee
Tower. There were just over 600 present. In a very orderly manner they divided into
four sections and marched to churches. A more orderly or better-behaved procession
was never seen in Newmarket and the officiating ministers expressed themselves very
pleased with the behaviour of the men and youths and their attentive demeanour.
After the services they reformed and marched to the Jubilee Tower, where they
dismissed.

Tuesday 3rd April

1976

Farmers in the Waterbeach Fen and Swaffham areas were assessing the damage after
what one of them describes as the worst fen blow he could remember in 25 years
farming there. Huge black clouds hovered over the fens nearly all day as high winds
whipped up the light soil and blocked many drainage channels in the area. The blow
does not appear to have involved any other light peat land south of Littleport.

1951
The pros and cons of a proposal to establish a greyhound race track on land off the
Landbeach Road, Milton were argued before a Planning inspector. The applicant said
greyhound racing is not a particularly offensive form of sport and it might be
pleasant for local inhabitants to have some sort of recreation on the spot. There
would be 104 evening meetings per year with floodlighting in the winter. The County
Council said it would be difficult to refuse permission to expand in other
directions, such as speedway racing. The main road was one of the busiest in the
county carrying an average of 145 vehicles an hour. Mr J.R. Ginn (Over) said he was
one of the largest breeders of greyhounds in the county & we badly need a track for
Cambs.

1926

A splendid film of the Boat Race was screened at the Playhouse on Saturday evening
and received a great reception from crowded audiences. Added interest was shown by
the inclusion of pictures of the “Go-Ahead” wireless car receiving the copy of the
film for Cambridge outside the offices of Pathe Gazette. It came with musical
accompaniment as the loud speaker was giving forth the Daventry programme and when
broadcasting in Wardour Street, London, the road was blocked by people who stopped
to gaze at the novelty and to listen in.

1901

Newmarket trainers held at meeting at the Rutland Arms Hotel, to consider the state
of affairs. Some were strongly in favour of acceding to the men’s requests but
after an hour and a half’s consultation a resolution was passed refusing to meet a
deputation from the stablemen. The lads are incensed by the refusal of the trainers
to discuss matters and unanimously determined to continue the strike until the wage
demanded is conceded.

Wednesday 4th April

1976
A plan for building a £13,000 halt at Cherry Hinton on the main Cambridge-Ipswich
railway line was rejected by the county highways committee. Cambridge city council
had asked for the halt, saying it would be useful for commuters and people working
in the expanding office development in Station Road. Councillor Charles Swift
(Peterborough) who is a train driver said that halts usually consisted of just a
few old railway sleepers by the side of the track and not the station and buildings
proposed for Cherry Hinton.

1951

A group of scientists has been formed to investigate outbreaks of bloat in cattle

in the Cambridge area. Bloat frequently occurs so acutely that cattle may die very
soon after symptoms are seen. It may occur following the turning of cattle out to
pasture, often in as short a period as 20 minutes to half-an-hour & the cause has
not been definitely ascertained. Early information about outbreaks is needed, as
observations have to be made not only on the cattle but also on the pasture where
bloat occurs. Important changes may take place if the examination is not made
quickly.

1926

The annual meeting of Swaffham Prior parish council turned out to be quite a
passive affair. Mr R. Cooper said they wanted a school and there would never be any
peace and quiet in the village until they got one. The parents who sent their
children to Burwell only did so on sufferance. The grouping scheme had been brought
about to suit the pockets of the “money-grabbing” ratepayers. They had been
“diddled” out of their school and the labouring parties had been put down as if
they had no sense.

1901

The sudden conclusion of the strike of stablemen at Newmarket was undoubtedly due
to the panic which seized a few of the strikers subsequent to the meeting of
Tuesday. The consequence is that the trainers have been able to dictate their own
terms, instead of having terms dictated to them. Many will give their employees
£1.2s (£1.10) but others intend to give only £1. Probably 100 of the strikers have
not been re-employed. The members of the strikers’ committee have not been
reinstated, undoubtedly due to a feeling among certain trainers that they were
responsible for the strike.

Thursday 5th April

1976

There is something splendid in the sight of an old steam locomotive thundering

along the tracks. But like all grand old ladies, the Greene King which steamed
proudly through Ely on a special run, hasn’t got the stamina she once had, and
instead of completing the run both ways from Ipswich to March she ran out of steam
on the return journey. Now the old loco is at March waiting to be repaired so she
can head back into retirement in Essex

1951

Local roller skating enthusiasts are now able to get awheel in fine style at the
Rex Ballroom, Cambridge, on Monday and Thursday evenings when grown ups take to the
floor to music by Austen Paine and his orchestra. There appears to be no lack of
demand and skaters from the surrounding villages can often be seen gyrating on the
floor. The introduction of roller skating to the Ballroom has entailed no
alterations to the floor, because the skates, which are supplied by the Management,
have composite wheels that do not damage the polished surface.

1926

A mysterious stranger is reported to have appeared on the main road between

Cambridge and Peterborough and distributed something like £200 in sums of £5 to
unemployed men he had met. The procedure of the highway benefactor is to enquire
how far they have walked, offer them a cigarette and present them with a sealed
envelope which he says contains a charm, and if handed over any counter will bring
good luck to the bearer. “We regarded the whole thing as a joke”, said one of the
men, “until we opened the envelope and found five £1 notes in it. We passed one of
them over the counter of the first eating house we came to, and it certainly
brought me luck in the shape of a good square meal”

1901

The people of Cambridge were considerably astonished by the spectacle of a singular

procession threading its way along the streets from the direction of the station. A
band, a lamp borne aloft on a pole, a banner, and, following after, two or three
carriages constituted an enigmatical state of things to nearly all except the
Cambridge postmen and Cambridge Salvationists. These latter were welcoming from
South Africa a soldier who is a member of the local Salvation Army and a postman –
Lance Corporal J.W. Weeks.

Friday 6th April

1976

A new branch of Lloyd’s Bank is due to open on the corner of Regent Street and
Gonville Place, Cambridge. It will be the first entirely new branch of Lloyds
opened in the city since 1964, when a branch was set out at Cherry Hinton. Five
cashier positions have been provided inside the bank, together with a cash
dispenser for quick service.

1951

Since the announcement of Cambridge’s new dignity, many messages of congratulations

have been received, one from the Mayor of Nairobi. He says: “It is just a year
since Nairobi became a city, but little more than fifty years ago lion, rhinoceros
and many variety of game roamed the plains where now our modern city stands. It is
most fitting that your ancient seat of learning should be accorded civic status.
Happily the days of rioting and disturbance between town and gown are long since
past, and though he escapades of some of its aspiring young scholars may still
cause no little consternation to the civic authority, the ancient rivalry has
changed its tone and lost its rancour so that town and gown may now dwell together
in unity”.

1926

A friend brought me in a letter this week to show how widely the C.D.N. circulates.
It came from Copiapio, Chile, and asked for a copy of the “House Hunters Guide”,
“as advertised in the ‘Cambridge Daily News’”. No charge is made for this guide, so
that the recipient will not have to pay cash on delivery.

1901
The special manoeuvres for cycling troops began on Good Friday. Frequent bright
sunshine made the day a pleasant one for the riders traversing the Essex roads and
it is to be regretted that the numbers participating have not proved so large as
anticipated. The Home District Force’s expected thousand cyclists have diminished
by quite three hundred. The great purposes is to learn whether it is possible to
employ with advantage cyclist troops in large bodies for the defence of the
country, using them against the flanks and rear of an advancing enemy. The general
idea is that an enemy landed at Aldeburgh has send forth a cycling forced
reconnoitring towards London; while the Home Army has sent out a similar force
towards the invaders to keep them in check whilst the ordinary troops are taking up
their positions as a defending line.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 9th April

1976

Fire swept through the part of Mildenhall’s prestigious new shopping centre late
last night, completely gutting three shops, badly damaging five others and causing
thousands of pounds of damage. Twenty-four firemen took just 20 minutes to contain
the blaze which started in a recently-opened menswear shop. The shops gutted by
fire were Mark Audio a radio and tv shop, the Stateside menswear shop and Laurie
Wallis a bookmaker

1951

The Automobile Association reports several cases of flooded roads in Cambridgeshire

and Huntingdonshire. The worst are at St Neots papermills but water which was ten
inches deep on the main road at Caxton was down to four inches this morning.
Highest of all rivers is the Cam with extensive flooding on Coe Fen and in the
stream near the river on the Backs. There are patrols on the banks of the Cam and
the Old West and at Ely the river is four foot six inches above normal.

1926

The system of ‘C.O.D.’ does not seem to have caught on to any extent locally. The
Post Office says there had not been more than a dozen parcels delivered under the
system. It is obvious that if the practice becomes general it will entail
considerable extra work. If people do not happen to be in when they arrive, or if
the cash is not available then the parcel will presumably have to go back where it
came from.

1901

“Here’s to You” at the New Theatre, Cambridge, is a jolly fine revue which enables
Miss Florrie Forde, the famous chorus singer to pay a return visit with some new
work. Large audiences found it full of popular dance songs, clever skits and humour
in abundance. Old memories were recalled in “She’s a Lassie from Lancashire”, “Pack
up your troubles in your old kit bag” and “The Old Bull and Bush”. Some excellent
fun is provided by Mr Chesney Allen, Mr Bud Flanagan and Mr Roy Holgate. Mr
Flanagan is an exceedingly capable comedian with a number of fresh ideas in the way
of laughter making.
Tuesday 10th April
1976

Cambridge Water Company consumers can expect to escape restrictions on water usage
now being slapped on nearby areas. But that does not mean they can use water as
freely as they like, even though they will probably not face the hosepipe ban
imposed on the St Neots and Huntingdon area where the taps are fed mostly from
dwindling surface reservoirs. They are up against acute difficulties if the summer
is as dry as the past winter which had brought only two inches of rain since
November.

1951

The threat of possible flooding of the Cambridge-Ely road at Stretham bridge has
been met by the building of a quarter-mile long clay bank and the installation of
three pumps. Mr W.E. Doran, the Catchment Board engineer said that the rainstorm
that raised the level had travelled the length of the Cam basin & that with the
present sodden state of the ground most of the rainwater drained into the river.
Had the improvement work which followed the 1947 floods not been done river levels
in some places would be above the danger line.

1926

The annual report of the Cambs District Milk Recording Scheme records the total
number of herds was 96 and the number of cows 1,168. The maximum yield of milk
given by a cow was 16,194 lbs. It was with regret that members heard that Mr A.
Macarthur has decided to give up the Hall Farm at Bottisham. He was the first
chairman and the owner of one of the finest herds of heavy-milking commercial
cattle in the Eastern Counties. The Rev C.H. Brocklebank is leaving Bartlow & Col.
W.F. Northman has disposed of his herd to Major S.G. Howard of Kirtling.

1901

Sir – In two hours on Saturday evening, with the aid of the efficient staff at the
Central Library, two hundred books were exchanged – one every twenty-four seconds;
taking back, making returns, finding fresh books and entering same in register and
books. All this was done with a politeness and steadiness of deportment most
commendable, Mr Pink jun. calling out in clear tones the numbers returned and those
taken in place of them and his assistant staff, especially Mr Fenton proved
themselves to be the right men in the right place. - One of the Crowd

Wednesday 11th April

1976

Jesus College opened its Eden Street housing development to the public to show just
what can be done with old properties in Cambridge’s Kite area. The college plans
the conversion of more than 30 two and three-bedroomed homes at rentals from £8 to
£10 a week. Two major types of conversion are in hand, one of extending existing
terraced houses to give two-bedroomed homes, and the other of combining two
terraced houses to make one new one

1951

With some 16,000 acres of Cambridgeshire’s wheat target of 50,000 acres still
unsown and at the most only about a fortnight left to do the sowing, local farmers
fear the possibility of a worst year than that of the 1947 floods. On many farms no
spring sowing has yet been possible and work is anything from a month to six weeks
behind. Mr C. L. Marr of Malton Farm, Meldreth reports that the heavy land there
was waterlogged at the beginning of the week. Mr H.S. Kent of Chippenham summed up
the situation in the word “terrible”.

1926
A thunderstorm broke over the Saffron Walden district, the lightning and thunder
being particularly severe. The fire brigade was called to Ringer’s Farm, Newport
where three stacks were ablaze. An eyewitness saw a flash of lightning pass between
the stacks. Farm workers attempted to fight the flames but although there was
plenty of water, they were completely destroyed. Several large trees were burnt.
The fire could be seen for miles around. The Saffron Walden brigade was composed of
ten firemen under the command of Major F.W. Acland and were on duty for ten hours

1901

The circus in Auckland Road, Cambridge, reopened on Eastern Monday, Mr G.S. King
having become the sole lessee for a year. Leonie Clarke’s cats are the prime
attraction. Cats of all sizes and colour go through a performance the like of which
has never previously been seen in Cambridge. Rope and wire-walking and balancing
are all done with consummate care and a fine specimen of the feline tribe descends
from the top of the building by means of a parachute. Rats and mice feature largely
in the performance. The animals do everything but talk.

Thursday 12th April

1976

The Rev John Carre – latest victim in a spate of lead thefts from churches around
Cambridge – has put fertiliser bags on the roof of St Andrew’s. Chesterton, to keep
out the weather. Thieves who stripped five sheets from the roof a few weeks ago,
came back a second time and removed lead from the organ chamber. The parochial
church council is to discuss possibilities such as slippery paint, and a dye which
cannot be removed from the hands, in order to discourage further thefts. Christ
church, Cambridge and churches at Fen Ditton, Quy and Haslingfield are amongst
those which have recently been hit by the lead thieves.

1951

A proposal to establish a police out-station in Girton clashes with the interests

of a market gardening partnership and there has been an appeal against the County
Council’s application. The Clerk said the intention was to establish a police house
with garage and office accommodation. A site 70 feet wide by 150 feet deep was the
minimum requirement, governed by the disposal of sewage. There was no satisfactory
public sewer in Cambridgeshire. The Chief Constable spoke of the extreme difficulty
of getting recruits because of lack of accommodation. The constable now at Girton
lived in a council house.

1926

Steps are being taken to set up an “Organisation for Maintenance of Supplies”

committee in Cambridge. It is a non-political organisation for enrolling and
classifying lists of volunteers for the use of the Government in the regrettable
event of a general stoppage of the essential public services. One may be quite sure
that such volunteers would be readily forthcoming in a grave emergency, but for the
sake of efficiency it is thought better to have personnel ready beforehand. It does
not question the right to strike but exists to prevent the mass of the population
being victimised by a far-reaching strike that affects the well-being of the
community.

1901

The Baptist denomination at Histon celebrated the foundation stone laying of the
new Sunday School. The old school building has for some time ceased to furnish
adequate accommodation for the increasing number of scholars. The classrooms will
accommodate about 500 scholars; it will be erected adjoining the chapel and the two
buildings will be in architectural conformity. The estimated cost if £2,200 and of
this £1,400 has already been promised by Messrs Chivers and Sons.

Friday 13th April

1976

Twenty private beds will be axed at Cambridgeshire hospitals in the first phase of
Government plans for phasing out pay beds from the National Health Service. There
are 56 private beds in Cambridgeshire, 29 of them at Addenbrooke’s & Mill Road
Maternity Hospitals, Cambridge. Others are at Papworth (3), Huntingdon (1) & 23 in
the north of the county.

1951

The results of the census is awaited with particular interest locally. Because if
it shows that the population of Cambridge has greatly increased, it might well be
that the city would be in a position to apply for county borough status. Before it
can put forward a claim a town must have a population of at least 100,000. County
boroughs are completely self-contained local authorities, exercising all local
government functions within their area. If Cambridge were to be granted this new
status the city council would be very largely masters in their own house, a state
of affairs what cannot be said to exist at the present moment owing to the rate
demands of the county.

1926

Anglesey Abbey, the fine old historical residence, is to be offered for sale.
Founded by Henry I, the Augustinian Monastery was one of the first of its order in
England. After passing through various hands the estate became the property of the
Rev John Hailstone, Vicar of Bottisham, who beautifully restored the house in 1860
and whose representatives after his decease sold it in 1888 to the present owners,
by whom it has been completely modernised.

1901

Sir – the ill-advised strike of stablemen at Newmarket has resulted most deplorably
for all who took part in it, and the consequences unfortunately, have told heavily
on many who were persuaded against their better judgement into having anything to
do with it. Myself and many other poor married men were almost intimidated into
striking. On behalf of them, and the wives and children dependent on us, let me
appeal to the merciful consideration of trainers. Such men ought to have first
claim on their clemency when they re-engage stablemen for employment. As one of the
strikers I dare not make my name public – Poor Married Stableman
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 16th April

1976

Fenland villagers who bought cheap whisky buried it in their gardens and poured it
down the drain as police began investigating the theft of more than 2,000 bottles
from Whitemoor railway marshalling yard at March. Almost £8,000-worth of Haig and J
& B Export whisky bound for the continent was stolen in three raids from vans at
the yards. Some whisky was hidden a suitcase, some was transferred to lemonade and
sherry bottles, and some of it was drunk.

1951

Cambridge’s first woman traffic warden takes up her duties on Monday, to help
children cross the road before and after school. She is Mrs M.E. Vail who will be
attached to St Luke’s school, Victoria Road. The idea of having civilian traffic
wardens was taken up in January when the education committee appointed a man for
Morley memorial school; a second started at St Barnabas school this week.

1926

Saffron Walden council had visited the slum houses in the town, and they were slums
indeed. Coun Tanner suggested writing to a certain member of the House of Lords who
owned property in the town and ask him if he would be prepared to replace 16 new
houses for the existing ones. If the matter were nicely put to the noble lord, who
was a millionaire, he would no doubt be willing to accede to the request. In any
case there would be no harm in doing so.

1901

The atmospheric conditions in Cambridge on Easter Monday were on the whole

delightful and the people made the most of the opportunities for outdoor amusement
and recreation. There was an increase of traffic on the Great Eastern Railway.
Excursions were run to Hunstanton, 50 persons leaving, and 70 went to Yarmouth, 20
to Cromer, 20 to Lowestoft and 150 to London by excursions that day. Another
excursion brought 362 persons from London to Cambridge.

Tuesday 17th April

1976

The Twentypence Inn, Wilburton, claims to provide reasonably priced meals. The
Sunday lunch menu offered a wide choice for £2 a head. It included prawn and peach
cocktail, oxtail soup and ravioli for starters; and turkey and ham salad, roast
duckling, roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, trout and lemon sole as the main
course. This was followed by fruit salads from the fruit trolley. A carafe of red
wine was £1.35

1951

Seventy-one year Mr Robert O’dell went to he Ministry of Labour offices in

Brooklands Avenue, in response to instructions to go for a Z Reserve medical
examination. Mr O’dell – Bowie as he is widely known in Cambridge, where he has a
greengrocery business – was rather surprised to get the instruction, as he has
never been in the army. He was told it was all a mistake. “I asked about my
expenses for travelling and lost time”, he said.

1926

An “Organisation for Maintenance of Supplies” Committee for Cambridge was the

outcome of a meeting held at Christ’s College, its aim being to enlist and classify
volunteers for the use of the Government in the event of a general stoppage of the
essential public services. The questioners included Coun W. Few, President of the
Cambridge Trades Council and Labour party who declined to allow his name to go
forward as a member of the Executive Committee.

1901

The entertainment given by the Cambridge Pierrots attracted a fairly large audience
and despite the fact they have now been before the public a considerable time their
performances are always fresh, so extensive is their repertoire. There were songs
for soprano & contralto, humorous and sentimental numbers, choruses and dances so
as to avoid any suspicion of monotony. Miss L. Unwin gained a well deserved encore
for the song “Oh! Ebeneezer”, sung with fine expression.

Wednesday 18th April

1976

The future redevelopment of the Burleigh Street - Fitzroy Street area of Cambridge
is back in the melting pot following the decision of the outgoing city council to
throw out the massive £30 million scheme proposed by a London development company
for the Kite area. The rejection of the scheme, which would have brought a greatly-
increased number of shops in to the area, together with car parks, a new road and
an underground country bus station, was an easy matter for the city council. But it
was far less easy for them to decide how to go about working out alternatives.

1951

Despite the shortage of new cars the amount of traffic on the roads of
Cambridgeshire today is only very little less than it was in 1938, while the amount
of commercial traffic has nearly doubled. Private cars were down 38 percent but
commercial vehicles had increased to 94% more. An increased proportion of
commercial to private vehicles was expected as they have been less affected by
wartime and post-war restrictions.

1926

A meeting was held at Prickwillow for the purpose of inaugurating a new troop of
Boy Scouts. The vicar said scouting was not new to the village, a troop having been
in existence in the time of Father Kingdon, their old vicar. Their was a good
number of young people and it would be a good idea if their could band them
together. It was said that a boy had a spice of the devil in him, but he had also a
spice of an angel, and it was the object of the movement to bring the latter to the
top.

1901

A disastrous fire occurred at Soham vicarage. It is really in two parts, the old
portion, used by the servants, being connected by a passage with the new wing in
which the Rev J.C. Rust and his children were sleeping. The seat of the fire was in
the old portion in a room used by the sons of the vicar as a carpenter’s shop. The
cook and the housemaid were awakened by stifling smoke and clad only in their night
attire, climbed on the roof. Practically the whole of the old wing was gutted, the
furniture as wells as the belongings of the servants being destroyed.

Thursday 19th April

1976

Work on the controversial Tesco superstore at Bar Hill will start in a few days and
the huge building should be open for business within a year. The building will
include a bakery and a snack bar, a petrol filling station and car parking for 750
cars. Plans had to be revamped after the first ones submitted were condemned as
“horrible” and “little better than a warehouse” by councillors.

1951

“Spiv, the Chocolate King”, as he was known to thousands, died as he was born in
an institution, penniless and alone with no one to care whether he lived or died.
No one that is except two Good Samaritan neighbours, themselves in humble
circumstances who had tended him for 30 years without thought of recompense. When
the Eastern Gas Board collector called to empty the meter he had used only
3s.8d.worth of gas in the previous quarter, and the fourpence rebate is all the
money in the world available for carrying out the last rites. On Tuesday he will
find a pauper’s grave.

1926

Sawston Boys’ School was crowded to do honour to Mr J.C. Falkner who recently
retired from the headmastership. Commander Eyre of Sawston Hall, who made the
presentation, expressed amazement that any man could have endured schoolmastering
for 33 years! The Commander has only been in residence since 1925 but Sawston
people have already learned to appreciate him as one who is sincerely interested in
their welfare and the relations between the villagers and the Squire are of the
very happiest. Mr Falkner said it was impossible to refrain from mentioning those
lads – nearly 40 of them – from the school who had died in the service of their
country and the audience stood in silent homage

1901

Cambridge Council reported that in 1900 a meeting had been held with Emmanuel
College as to the terms of exchange of the site of Emmanuel Street for a piece of
ground to form a new street from St Andrews Street to Drummer Street. The existing
street was the chief means of access to the centre of the town and carried a very
considerable proportion of traffic with 1,030 cyclists on Saturday. The new road
would be nearly 100 feet shorter and wider. Mr Campkin suggested the advantage
would rest largely with the college.

Friday 20th April

1976

Bank holiday bargain hunters brought traffic chaos to Bourn airfield market when
queues four miles long built up on the A45. Shoppers started moving in early to buy
everything from double glazing to garden gnomes. By noon thousands of people
crowded the market ground. Getting away from the market was no easier. By lunchtime
four lanes of traffic stretched back for three-quarters of a mile, attempting to
get out of a single gateway.

1951

A recordon dictaphone, various wires, amplifiers and relays, together with other
improbable odds and ends have enabled a Cambridge doctor to overcome the problem of
maintaining a continuous telephone ‘watch’. If there is nobody to answer a
patient’s ring they hear, after a short pause “Hello. This is the automatic
telephone speaking. The doctor is at the hospital. Goodbye”. The doctor is now
turning his inventive imagination in the direction of an apparatus which will
record an incoming message.

1926

PC Bird told magistrates he saw the defendant riding a motor cycle in James Street,
Cambridge. He was standing on the saddle and with his hands on the handlebars.
Witness told him he had no control over the machine, and he replied “None
whatsoever”. There were other machines in the street and some children playing on
the footpath. Defendant who pleaded guilty said: “I did not think there was any
harm in doing it in a quiet street near my house”, he said. Magistrates took a
lenient view and dismissed him with a caution.

1901

The village of Haddenham was the scene of a serious fire. Several persons observed
a small flame issuing from the roof of a cottage – one of a block of three situated
near Station Road. The flames spread with great rapidity and the village fire
engine, of primitive character, being quite unable to cope, was wisely directed to
the saving of adjoining property. The Ely Fire Brigade was summoned, but stopped
before they left the city, the destruction of the cottages being complete.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 23rd April

1976
An historic house in the centre of Fowlmere was flattened by a bulldozer today –
just hours after planning officials ordered that demolition work must cease. The
destruction of the centuries-old Dovecote House came as angry villagers and
planners were still battling to save it. Villagers who believed they had been
granted a stay of execution for the house could do nothing as it was reduced to
rubble. It toppled less than two hours after they returned to their homes and jobs
after an early-morning site vigil

1951

Chesterton R.D.C. agreed to meet the County Surveyor regarding the cost of measures
to avoid flooding at Cottenham. Captain Johnson said there had been flooding to
such an extent during this winter that water had gone into houses. The extra water
which resulted in the flooding was entirely due to the building works of the RDC
and County Councils & he thought the county should pay half of the cost of relaying
the 16th public drain as far as the Green

1926
Mr J. Ramsey Macdonald, M.P., the leader of the Labour Party visited Cambridge and
laid the foundation stone of the Labour Club and Hall in Romsey Town. A meeting in
Romsey Council School was crowded with an enthusiastic audience. A brisk sale was
done in red rosettes and on the table was a vase of magnificent red geraniums. Over
the platform was a banner bearing the words “Labour offers you true friendship”. In
the evening he attended a dinner in the Lion Hotel where he spoke mainly on the
achievements of the Labour Party

1901

Messrs Nichols & Sons, grocers of Cambridge sued for the sum of £5 2s. for
groceries – cherry jam and Scotch whisky, tinned herrings, boxes of biscuits and
one frisk - supplied to an undergraduate. They contended that an undergraduate,
under age, sent to Cambridge by his father had the latter’s authority to procure
all reasonable necessities and a tradesman had a right to expect that all
reasonable debts would be made. Defendant said his son was told he was not to run
into dept and had ample means – about £200 a year.

Tuesday 24th April

1976

A visitor to the ancient village of Papworth St Agnes was appalled at what she saw.
The cottages and old Manor House were falling down. “It did seem very sad that the
whole village was decaying”, she said. Seven years ago there was planning
permission for eight new houses. Only two were built before the contractors went
out of business. Further development has been held up by the lack of a proper
sewerage system. But now development is on again. A number of the rundown cottages
have gone to private individuals who are doing them up and one farmhouse looks very
smart.

1951

To be Water Lane, Chesterton, or to be Malting Lane, Chesterton was the question

which faced Cambridge magistrates when two housewives came to court to object to
the proposal to rename it. They said correspondence for Malting Lane, Newnham was
never received if the word Chesterton was on the envelope. The Town Clerk said
Water Lane would be associated with the adjoining Water Street. The magistrates
felt it for the best and would make an order confirming the change.

1926

Cambridge Mammoth Show Society expressed indignation at the council for “abruptly
refusing” the use of part of Midsummer Common on August Bank Holiday for the first
time in 22 years. It cost £700 to maintain the racing track but it was no use
unless they raced upon it. The council had refused permission to the only society
who could afford to spend money in putting a hoarding around the track and ensure
gate money. They obviously did not desire over 20,000 people should enjoy
themselves on Jesus Green.

1901

Number two of Mr Frank Rutter’s series of “Varsity Types” sketches is entitled ‘The
Economist’. The average undergraduate’s idea of economy is about the last which
would occur to any sane business man of the world & merely consists in owing
instead of paying. This is indeed a deplorable state of affairs which many reflect
on with sorrow – but if a tradesman deliberately sets himself to foster the credit
system he must not be surprised if those who have yielded to his wiles occasionally
land him with bad debts.

Wednesday 25th April

1976

A Cambridge researcher has collaborated in helping a 35-year-old woman become

pregnant by using the test-tube baby technique. Dr Bob Edwards, from Cambridge
University Physiology Department, has been working on the technique for ten years
in collaboration with Mr Patrick Steptoe of Oldham and District General Hospital.
The success is the first documented case using the method, but the pregnancy
developed in the tube connecting an ovary to the womb and the foetus died.

1951

“Spiv the Chocolate King” has been laid to rest in a soldier’s grave with full
British Legion honours. Following the story of his lifelong struggle against
poverty, which was published in the C.D.N. the Legion, offered to defray the whole
of the funeral costs. His Norfolk Street neighbours watched as the hearse
containing the Union Jack drew up. Many hundreds of people congregated to pay their
last respects.

1926

An inquiry was set up into the working of the Cambridge Workhouse laundry. They
were doing wrong with the washer, boiling the dirt into the clothes instead of
rinsing it out. Soap was not put in properly, the waste steam was wrongly used, and
there was waste in connection with the hydro. They had wooden rollers in the mangle
and people swore about their buttons coming off. They could save two tons of coal a
week. When this was done the engineer and the two girl workers should be given a
bonus.

1901
The first Nonconformist building ever erected in Swaffham Bulbeck –a Free Church
hall – was opened. For the best part of 50 years services have been held casually
in various dwelling houses and clubrooms by laymen but there had been no central
meeting place. The frame was part of the old Anatomical Schools, and was purchased
for £50. Mr Stevens removed the building from Cambridge to its present site.

Thursday 26th April

1976

A Cambridge family who won the national final of a tv quiz show was given an
official thank-you in the form of tea with the mayor. David and Tina Burton, with
their son Andrew and daughter Kathryn came first in the BBC show “Ask the Family”
after a taut final televised last week. They now have a holiday in Calpe, Spain, to
look forward to as their prize for winning the quiz

1951
By working continuously from early daylight to the fall of darkness in the rain-
free weather Cambridgeshire’s 10,000 men of the land have broken the back of the
crisis which gravely threatened the spring sowing programme. With sun and wind
replacing almost daily rain, it has been possible to get out on the land & by
taking full advantage of every hour of daylight they have seen to it that an
estimated 80% of the wheat acreage target has been sown – a much brighter picture
than seemed possible a fortnight ago.

1926

Lady Newton, wife of the Cambridge MP, opened the new hall of the East Chesterton
Ward Conservative Association, situate in Union Lane. It is completely equipped
with cloakrooms, kitchen, stage etc with electric light and ventilating fans and
other modern appliances, and an excellent floor has been laid for dancing. They are
going to cater during the summer for flannel dancing and during the winter will run
the hall for dances, whist drives and a smoking concert. A gentleman had promised a
full-sized billiard table and another given them a cheque for a piano.

1901

The new church of St Mark, Newnham, built to supersede the structure that had done
duty for so many years was consecrated by the Bishop of Ely. The Master of Corpus
said that in the new church they had visible proof of the continuity of the Church
of God and that the gates of hell should not prevail against them; it was a visible
link in a long chain of God’s claim on the adoration and service of mankind.

Friday 27th April

1976

Cambridge has gone through its driest winter for 54 years, according to records
kept by the Water Company. And if the drought continues it could be the worst year
this century. With the forecasters still predicting dry, cold weather water-users
are being urged to economise wherever possible. The Anglian Water Authority is
preparing contingency plans for an expected water crisis in the late autumn.
Hosepipe bans have been introduced in the Huntingdon and St Neots area.

1951

A Royal welcome greeted the King and Queen when they arrived for their visit to
King’s College chapel thanksgiving service for its restoration and the replacement
of windows removed for safety during the war. The car flying the Royal standard
drew up to the city boundary at Newmarket Road. Many mothers from nearby houses
brought their children along with little flags and some enterprising onlookers
climbed on to one of Marshall’s buildings to get a bird’s eye view. Carried away by
their enthusiasm many toddlers continued to cheer and wave small Union Jacks long
after the Royal party had passed.

1926

The old Theatre Royal, Barnwell, has been acquired for a repertory theatre. The
auditorium is to be reseated and the stage remodelled and equipped on modern lines.
It will have its own company of actors and actresses and a play will be presented
each week during term. Mr Herbert Prentice of the Sheffield Repertory Company will
be resident producer. The building will be known in future as the Festival Theatre
and it is hoped to establish with it a training centre of dramatic art.
1901

An inquiry was held into the complaint that Swavesey R.D.C. had not properly
maintained Holywell Ferry road as a bridle path and footway. As far back as 1840
it was used for pack horses and other traffic, and after that light trade carts
went along. They had an undisputed right along this road. Now a doctor had said it
was a considerable risk to his trap, and even his neck, that he drove down the
road. The District Council formally took over the road in 1896

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 30th April

1976

The rocketing price of potatoes has cost 90 people their jobs at a Haverhill
factory – a move described by the employment adviser as a “disaster for the town”.
The sackings come as a complete surprise to the staff at the Courtenham’s Products
Factory, Holland’s Road. Only last year it doubled its workforce to 100 when it
cornered the market in frozen chips by importing cheap Dutch potatoes during the
poor home harvest.

1951

The woollen products of Messrs I & R Morley Ltd have a world wide reputation and
the label is accepted for value, hard wear and reliability. But perhaps people do
not associate the name with Cambridge, which is on the whole, not a particularly
industrial city. Yet they do have a factory in Abbey Walk, which produces as many
as 135 dozen garments a week. At present 120 workers are employed but a plan is
under way to turn it into a modern up-to-date knitwear factory.

1926

Coun Unwin asked what steps could be taken to avoid the dangers to traffic on the
blind and awkward corners on the main road through Histon. At Stone Corner the road
including the pathway was about 15 feet wide and it was quite a blind corner.
Imagine two Ortona buses each measuring about seven feet wide, meeting each other
there. It would be an expensive job to take down the buildings which were close to
the edge of the road. Perhaps a bye-pass road would be a better alternative

1901

“Ping-Pong was invented by Mr James Gibb, an old Cambridge athlete now living at
Croydon. It was started one evening with champagne corks cut as nearly circular as
possible, and the lids of cigar-boxes for battledores. Then he tried indiarubber
balls covered with cigarette paper to make them look very white but he was not
satisfied and sent to America to have some celluloid balls made. Mr Gibb was one of
the best all-round athletes of his day. The game he invented continues to rage
virulently in society.

Tuesday 1st May

1976

The eleven-month long drought brought two strong warnings today. Water supplies to
all homes in the Huntingdon and St Neots area will be cut off within three months
unless people economise. Elsewhere the dry weather is threatening all rivers with
sewage pollution. Downstream from the over-loaded Cambridge sewage works the Great
Ouse River Authority say the threat of wholesale sewage pollution was now
“crucial”.

1951

Messrs Spillers celebrated the official opening of the Company’s new Central
Laboratories in Station Road, Cambridge, built to replace a laboratory destroyed in
a bombing raid in London four days after the outbreak of the last war. Work went on
at Birkenhead and then in 1947 it was decided to build and erect a new building at
Cambridge, started in 1949. The mill has been renewed and remodelled on the very
latest lines, designed primarily for milling home-grown wheats

1926

An inquiry was held into the provision of two underground public conveniences at
the junction of Milton and Chesterton and Newmarket and East Roads where there
would be an island in the middle of the road. The Inspector asked whether they had
designed the roof to carry the weight of a heavy motor lorry; it would be a very
simple matter for a lorry to jump a kerb on a foggy night as had happened at
Southend when people had been injured. He also raised the question of a convenience
for women and the Mayor said the matter had been very carefully considered by the
committee who were anxious to get on with the work as quickly as possible.

1900

The annual meeting of the Cambridge branch of the R.S.P.C.A. heard that all the
local secretaries were ladies - they were usually more tender-hearted than men.
Newmarket had no subscribers; there were a lot of wealthy people there, and they
were generally very generous. The speaker referred to the common habit of stopping
a tram a few yards before it would be stopped in the ordinary course, and said much
unnecessary work was thus given to the horses. People who would be horrified at the
idea of cruelty do this in order to save themselves walking a few yards.

Wednesday 2nd May

1976

The River Cam is so polluted at Waterbeach that people who fall in it suffer from
skin trouble and are sick if they swallow any of the water, claimed Coun Hilda
Hatley. She said that a special anti-algae paint had been stripped off the bottom
of a boat by the water. Councillors agreed the problem was the severely over-loaded
Cambridge sewage works.

1951

Over the last few decades St John’s college grounds in the Backs have suffered
severely from the loss of trees by decay, storm damage and elm disease. A survey
showed there were many trees so diseased that they might fall down at any time,
including most of those in the remains of the Avenue leading to Queen’s Road. A
comprehensive scheme for replanting has been adopted. In place of the former elms a
new avenue of limes will be planted.

1926
The Trade Union Congress has decided upon a general stoppage of the vital services
at Midnight on Monday. The London Gazette declares that a state of national
emergency exists; the distribution of food, water, fuel and the essentials of life
are threatened. Mr Lloyd George, who came down to Cambridge to deliver an address,
said they were under the shadow of a great industrial conflict of unknown
magnitude. Every citizen would feel it was his duty to support the Government of
the day in the organisation and facilitating of the essential services of the
nation.

1901

Mr Arthur Rutter, head of the Cambridge Estate Agency, is to be complimented.

Registers of landed estates etc are common enough but we believe the illustrated
list he has just issued is the first of its kind. Preceding the thirty pages of “To
be let or sold” are four pages, each containing five pictures of residences which
he wishes to dispose of. The illustrations are excellently printed on art paper and
the whole production is a credit to the agency.

Thursday 3rd May

1976

Lime Kiln Hill could eventually become a footpath and bridleway if a proposed route
for the extension of the Cherry Hinton bypass near the Gogs is approved. The County
Council will be asked to approve a route which passes east of the reservoir
eventually linking with the A604. This was a very long-term project and it was
impossible to say when it might be built. There is a lot to be said for preserving
Lime Kiln Hill – it is a pleasant rural lane. There would be great problems in
widening and improving it

1951

Big traffic hold-ups in Hills Road last March – when a large sale of implements and
store pigs at the Cattle Market resulted in vehicles at one time taking 50 minutes
to get from Hyde Park Corner - has lead to proposals for improvements. Immediate
steps include the provision of a temporary entrance in Rustat Road.

1926

Cambridge is the administrative centre for East Anglia for the arrangements being
made to meet the National Strike emergency. Mr F. Morris Warren of St Ives is the
district coal officer. There are three Food Officers who will deal with complaints
relating to the supply of provisions. The big job of the moment is the securing and
registering of volunteers willing to help in any way with the maintenance of
essential services and supplies with a recruiting office in the Guildhall. The
Mayor of Cambridge, Ald Edward O. Brown, said: “Today we stand on the edge of an
important crisis in the history of our nation. A dark cloud is overshadowing the
life of our people. I appeal to all our people to prepare for sacrifice, and remain
steady. God grant it may be averted”

1901

The new British Schools in Auckland Road, Cambridge were formally opened. The three
departments – boys, girls and infants – are handsomely accommodated. Mr Alexander
Peckover said education was different now from what it was when he was a lad. Then
it was a common thing for a mistress of the house to have to make up the washing
list – (laughter) – because the housemaid could not do so. He was a banker and a
good many of their clients could not even sign their own names.

Friday 4th May

1976

Rabies, the terrifying disease which can be carried by animals, made an appearance
on Newmarket Heath only six years ago. A diseased dog was probably running down
Newmarket’s High Street and across the Heath in 1970. Immediate action by the
region’s veterinary authorities isolated the animal, a terrier called Sessan. Later
it was considered necessary to destroy a companion dog owned by the same family and
the cats at a veterinary surgeon’s. House to house enquiries were made at 310
premises and other dogs isolated. Fortunately the dog had not passed on the disease
to wildlife or any valuable racehorses

1951

Forty-one families of deserving ex-servicemen – 93 persons in all – received a gift

of meat donated by an Australian farmer, Mr F.H. Redden of Cuddle Creek, South
Australia. The donor wished the gifts to be an “occasion” in the lives of the
recipients. Three carcasses were received and the goodwill was enlisted of Messrs
Winton Smith Ltd who cut them into portions suitable to the size of the family and
generously gave a pork pie to each recipient.

1926

A public meeting organised by the Cambridge Trades Council, the Labour Party and
the Co-operative Party was held on Parker’s Piece and for an hour and a half
speeches were addressed from two red wagons to a crowd numbering about 5,000. They
were for the most part attired in red hats, scarves and rosettes and almost
encircled by red banners. Lloyd George had said when the miners came back from the
war they would find a country fit to live in but they had been asked to accept a
reduction in wages and an increase in hours. Socialists were out to help the poorer
classes. The meeting closed with the singing of the Red Flag.

1901

A large gathering of Post Office employees bade farewell to three of their number
who have recently received appointments as telegraphists in South Africa. They
might be sent to any part of an unsettled country and it was though an appropriate
token of goodwill would be a weapon of self-defence. Accordingly three revolvers
were purchased and presented to H. Emmerson, H. Winny and E.W. Gee. They hoped the
only use they would have of them would be to hang them over the mantelpiece and
look at them while they smoked.

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 7th May

1976

A row over the introduction of Sunday cricket on the green at Eltisley has split
the village into two opposing teams. Some of the villagers have no-balled the games
as a desecration of the Sabbath and an interruption of the villagers’ peace and
quiet. Play was stopped while a resident walked on to the field to protest to
Eltisley’s captain, who is also chairman of the Parish Council. Both the parochial
church council and members of the Methodist chapel are against it.

1951

Cambridge councillors are to reconsider a proposal to reserve a number of cycle

racks in the Guildhall for the use of members. “I think it is a very poor effort if
this should not be considered”, said Alderman Doggett. Alderman Priest said if he
could suggest a way of ensuring that the racks were used only by councillors they
would consider it. Ald Doggett: “Put up notices”. The Mayor remarked jokingly “The
next thing will be that people with cars will want parking spaces reserved”. Ald
James: “I move that!”

1926

Cambridge had a Mock Funeral today, after a lapse of many years. Undergraduates,
dressed in outrageous attire, paraded the streets of the town and marched to the
station to observe “funeral obsequies” to two Trinity men who have been sent down
for a breach of college discipline. The procession made its way to the college to
collect the “corpses”. On arrival however they found their unfortunate colleagues
had made use of their newly-acquired wings and flown, but nothing daunted the party
proceeded to the station headed by a drum-major and a figure in clerical attire.
Amongst the occupants of the horse-drawn ‘hearse’ were two musical geniuses with a
banjo and saxophone.

1901

Today Cambridge formally recognises and honours the loyalty of her sons who have
been at the war in South Africa. The arrival of the Volunteers at Cambridge Station
was very quiet and orderly. There were no decorations but a barrier had been drawn
across the platform & as time wore on the railway officials became more stringent
as to whom they allowed within. There was excitement as a train was seen slowing
steaming in with khaki-coloured arms and bronzed faces thrust out of the windows
and in another minute the men were standing on the platform, after fifteen months’
experience of war and travelling.

Tuesday 8th May

1976

The huge council estate planned for Cherry Hinton by the former Labour-controlled
city council is to be scrapped by the Conservatives following their runaway victory
in the elections. The Labour plan envisaged up to 15,000 council dwellings, a
bypass, shops, a community centre and four new schools. Some are likely to remain
but many of the council houses will disappear in favour of privately-built homes

1951

All three members of the crew of a Wellington bomber were killed when it crashed at
Brampton. The plane grazed the tower of the church, damaged the roofs of four
cottages, struck a “keep-left” sign and ploughed into the garden of a house,
demolishing a summer-house. The aircraft disintegrated, the main part of the
wreckage lying in the Thrapston -Huntingdon road.
1926

Cambridge station looked exceptionally bright this morning. Undergraduates in gaily

coloured blazers added colour to the scene. The train services are gradually
improving and great keenness had been shown on the part of undergraduates in
bringing down supplies from London for the Station refreshment room. Tilly, the
popular little tea shop girl, remarked while serving hot coffee and doughnuts to
hungry undergraduates that she had never seen such cheerful and plucky workers as
the volunteers who visited her counter during the General Strike.

1901

Sanguine people imagined that the rejoicing for the return of the South African
Volunteers would pass off quietly. A parental Corporation had taken the wise
precaution to secure materials for a fine bonfire on Midsummer Common to prevent
the destruction of property. This time it was a plan doomed to partial failure. The
fire was comparatively short-lived and undergraduates found a wealth of additional
fuel in King Street where a wooden hoarding was dragged off to the Common and
triumphantly flung upon the bonfire. Policemen stood guard over the bandstand on
Christ’s Pieces.

Wednesday 9th May

1976

Barton villagers paid tribute to Mr Bert Crick and his wife May to mark their
retirement from running the village post office after 30 years. He came 45 years
ago, providing both a milk round and a greengrocery round service before taking
over his Wimpole Road shop. They intend carrying on with their General Store; “It
gives us something to do”, he said. The post office business has been transferred
to Conkers store at the other end of the village.

1951

In this mechanical age when practically all the necessities of life are produced by
machine and a great deal of spare time is taken up by watching other people – at
sport, in the cinema, or listening to the radio – the art of craftsmanship is
gradually dying. No longer do we buy so many things with the stamp “hand made” on
them but it seems a pity that more people do not make use of their hands to create
works of beauty. Now the Education Committee is to present an exhibition of the
crafts of voluntary organisations at the Central School

1926

A machine something of the nature of a glorified cash register which will save the
services of three rate collectors is to be purchased for use in the Cambridge
Council’s Treasurer’s Department at a cost of £220. It really was a most
extraordinarily effective machine which really eliminated the human element of
error and would deal with errors when they were pointed out to it. (Laughter).
Anyone who had any knowledge of scientific management would know they were the
machines of the future. It would have to be specially adapted in American to meet
the Cambridge circumstances.

1901

Willingham was the scene of a destructive fire. In High Street, near the church,
was a substantial two-storyed house and a shop occupied by Mr F.C. Watson who
carried on the business of a grocer and provision merchant. These premises are now
a complete ruin, burnt out as completely as any building could be. In place of the
neat house and shop are piles of blackened and scorched debris.

Thursday 10th May

1976

A flotilla of 14 boats sailed to Burwell in a “quiet demonstration” in support of

preserving the ancient fenland waterways. The Commodore of the Cambridge Motor Boat
Club, Chief Inspector Roy Hardingham of the city police said it was designed to
make the point that the lodes should be protected for boating of all kinds, for
fishing and because they were part of our heritage. Mr Geoffrey Woollard said
Anglian Water Authority now seemed convinced that it would be foolhardy to destroy
the lodes, which are reputed to date back to Roman times

1951

The Whipple Museum of the History of Science was opened by the Vice Chancellor. The
collection was presented to the University in 1944 and was stored in boxes in the
Fitzwilliam Museum until 1948. It was at first proposed to create a museum in the
former Shorts Factory on Madingley Road, but this was rendered unusable after Pye’s
fire. The present premises in Corn Exchange Street became available in May last
year and it has at last been possible to show a large part of the collection.
Amongst the guests was Mr Robert S. Whipple, the founder of the collection.

1926

The effects of the general strike were brought more closely home than hitherto. In
many a Cambridge home the housewife found she had less to “manage on” and tradesmen
large and small found their takings considerably decreased in consequence. Parties
of undergraduates who had been doing volunteer work were seen coming home for a
Sunday rest carrying kit bags over their shoulders. The University has further
postponed examinations so that a clear three weeks interval for study will be
allowed after the present emergency has ended. A further contingent of 30
undergraduates left in cars to take up tramway services in Hull; the windscreens
were protected with wire netting.

1901

The late Mr William Weston was desirous of benefiting the poor of Fulbourn, but
died before his plans were complete. His widow is having ten or twelve cottages in
good repair conveyed to the rector and churchwardens as trustees for an
ecclesiastical charity. It is needless to add that the poor people are most
thankful for this kindness.

Friday 11th May

Bottisham village college’s new £23,000 swimming pool was “christened” with a
practical joke. To many of those who sat or stood in sweltering sunshine the fate
of the college’s former head, Mr Charles Brereton, may have seemed more than
enviable. In the first breach of pool regulation rules he was pushed into the cool
blue of the water. During his time at the college he presided over the raising of
over £18,000 in two years.

1951

South Cambs RDC considered an application for the erection of overhead electricity
lines at Gt Eversden. Coun Barnes said: “I think these people are desecrating the
whole countryside and they are putting all the telephones underground now”. Coun
Malthouse said the price was prohibitive and added “As long as we get electricity
we should not worry about it”. Coun Peters: “I do not think we ought to make any
move which might lessen the likelihood of electricity getting into the rural areas.
The main thing is to get it somehow”

1926

Six hundred of the new Civil Constabulary Reserve, mostly undergraduates, are
leaving Cambridge to take up duty in London. It is a paid body, organised and
administered by the War Office. They wear plain clothes, armlets and tin helmets &
carry truncheons. The force will be on duty chiefly in the East End of London and
will serve for the duration of the strike. People at Saffron Walden are putting up
with the inconvenience with good humour; coal has been rationed and shopkeepers
asked not to supply more than their normal quantities. Volunteers are doing duty at
the Anglo American oil dump. At Sawston paper mills 70 men returned to work out of
a total of 150 on strike

1901

The Mayor of Cambridge called a meeting to consider a memorial to Queen Victoria.

The large hall of the Guildhall was prepared but there were scarcely a dozen people
present and as they appeared lost in the hall, a move was made to the Aldermen’s
Parlour. The Mayor said it was a very great disappointment to him; he had written
letters, placed advertisements and issued handbills. The memory of her Majesty
would remain with all of her subjects but they wished for a visible memorial by
which future generations might see how deeply Queen Victorian reigned in the lives
and affections of her subjects.

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 14th May

1976

Two ponies for 12p worth of apples – that was the deal Mr Len Coe, a stallholder on
Cambridge market, was offered. But the deal never came off, and the two brown
ponies are back with their owner, a traveller who is camping in De Freville Avenue.
It all started when the two ponies began having a free feed on the apples on his
stall after the traveller had been not to handle the fruit. When Mr Coe demanded
12p for the apples the man said he had no money. Then he said: “Hang on to the
ponies” and away he went.

1951

Sixteen tons of sugar, four tons of tea, 80 tons of bread, 150 tons of potatoes,
20,000 eggs, 200 sacks of flour, 2,500 head of poultry, 22 tons of meat, 22 tons of
fish. This is the annual food consumption of the United Cambridge Hospitals. No
fewer than 12,962 patients were admitted last year but not all beds were always
occupied because it was essential for a certain number of remain vacant to deal
with any outbreak – that and shortage of nursing staff
1926

The Recorder gave his judgement on the appeal of residents of Brookside, Cambridge,
against the council’s order authorising part of Trumpington Road as a parking
place. They anticipated noise from the vehicles and their attendants who would gaze
into their windows. They also thought it would be used for charabancs and
omnibuses. Having heard the evidence and visited the spot he was satisfied that the
fears are to a great extent groundless

1901

While playing about on East Road, Cambridge, a two-year-old child was knocked down
by a tram horse and run over by the vehicles, sustaining such injuries that she
succumbed shortly after. The tram driver said that when he first saw the child she
was about a yard from his tram. He applied his brake immediately but it was
impossible to stop the heavy car before reaching her. The wheel went over her thigh
and she was fearfully mangled about her limbs and lower body

Tuesday 15th May

1976

In the early days of the Arbury estate there were many complaints about the lack of
shopping facilities, but with the completion of Arbury Court with its quarter-of-a-
million-pound supermarket and wide range of other shops, most of the residents are
more than satisfied. A very different focal point is the local, the Snowcat. Quite
controversial at the time it was constructed, this Greene King house has now
settled down to provide what the residents really want – a place with a bit of
atmosphere where they can get together in the same way as the regulars of a village
pub

1951

Many hundreds of harassed housewives will have gazed longingly at two trussed
pieces of meat hanging in the shop of Messrs Waller & Son, butchers of Victoria
Avenue, Cambridge. One is a piece of bacon, the other is a piece of Macon –
experimentally manufactured meat. These morsels are no ordinary pieces of meat,
they are by way of becoming family heirlooms. The bacon is 25 years old; it was the
first piece of bacon to be cured on the premises by Mr Fred Waller and he would not
part with it for anything. He even takes it down occasionally for a wash and brush-
up. “In spite of its 25 years it is still edible”, he said, “and no amount of money
would buy it – not even a £10 note”

1926

Five hundred of the Civil Constabulary reserve, mostly undergraduates, left

Cambridge early this morning for duty in the East End of London. An advance party
of 100 went off yesterday. The journey was made by road, the procession of cars
stretching for a distance of nearly a mile. In addition some are cleaning carriages
at Paddington and Waterloo stations and others unloading cargo at Tilbury Docks. A
large number are at dock work and engineering jobs at Hull, while a small
contingent is at Grimsby employed at the quayside. A number of Girton and Newnham
girls are working as cyclist messengers in the district

1901
By the sudden death of Dr John Perkins, senior fellow of Downing college, the
University has lost one of its most brilliant, popular and eccentric dons and
scholars. Lord Randolph Churchill used to declare that “Johnny knew more about
Homer, humbugs and hunting than any man up at the ‘Varsity”. He was very tolerant
of the little sins and escapades of all young men

Wednesday 16th May

1976

More than a sixth of south Cambridgeshire school leavers are expected to be on the
dole this summer. To cope with what is likely to be the worst situation on record
special instructions on how to claim dole money are being put out to the 2,700
children leaving school at the end of the term. The careers section has only 78 job
vacancies on its books and officials fear that at least 500 teenagers will be
without jobs. There are no vacancies in the building trade – although more than 200
enquiries have been made by those considering taking up apprenticeships.

1951

Peak traffic period in Cambridge over the holiday was from 5.30 to 6.30 pm on
Monday when no fewer than 800 vehicles – 50 per cent of them pre-war models – were
passing the Trumpington A.A. box. On Saturday the stream of traffic averaged 500
vehicles an hour past the Newmarket Road A.A. box but with the deterioration of the
weather there was a marked decrease. A feature of the traffic was the large
proportion of cars and coaches travelling towards London. Only a small amount
headed for the East coast via Ely and the Clacton road.

1926

The Paper Mills at Sawston have been running ever since the General Strike was
declared, the manager said. “Although half the men were out the other half remained
loyal. Many of those who went are now offering their services, but it is impossible
at present to find work for them”. Little effect has been felt at the Papworth
Tuberculosis Colony. Lorry drivers have got all supplied through from London
without mishap, and there is no shortage of newspapers, the “British Gazette”
having been obtainable in good numbers. Undergraduates were seen today delivering
coal. All were attired in morning dress. Their labours will leave abiding marks.

1901

A St Ives Inland Revenue officer was summoned for wilfully damaging a petition to
the House of Commons against any alteration of the coronation oath. Mr Odams said
he had produced the petition and allowed defendant to look at it. After doing so he
refused to return it. The paper was returned some time after with many erasures and
marks thereon. George Smith, tailor, said his name was on the petition. Defendant
came to him and tried to frighten him out of his signature. He was not surprised
that some had taken off their names, as defendant was in such a way that it would
frighten anyone

Thursday 17th May

1976

Tourists left King’s college chapel, Cambridge, when Stapleford sheep farmer, Mr
Gerald Beavis, gave what many people took to be a demonstration for their benefit
of sheep sheering. But it was a routine part of his work. With a flock of 41
Suffolk ewes grazing on Scholars’ Piece he decided to do the shearing at the
college rather than lose time by taking the sheep back to his farm
1951

The Playhouse Cinema, Mill Road, completed 38 years of service and entertainment.
To celebrate the event the manager (Mr Eric Dallman) arranged a special birthday
month. He opened with a brief history of the cinema and read telegrams of
congratulation from Richard Todd and Joan Dowling, the two popular British stars. A
request for any member of the audience who was at the opening in 1913 resulted in
one patron coming to the stage. He was Mr W.J. Pugh who had been a regular patron
since it opened. The audience was then introduced to the longest serving member of
staff, Mrs F. Hewett who had done most jobs except the operating box – but thought
she would like to try that as well!

1926

When the news of the end of the General Strike was broadcast on Market Hill,
Cambridge enthusiastic cheers broke out. “What rotten luck!” an undergraduate was
heard to remark, “I only started work to-day and was looking forward to driving a
lorry up to Town”. “Never mind, old boy”, cynically replied his companion, “They’ll
be out again in a few weeks”. “I’m glad its all over”, remarked a flapper, and then
added demurely, “All the ‘Varsity boys will be coming back”. In many parts of the
town children were carrying flags within two hours of receiving the news.

1901
Cambridge Fire Brigade Committee received a letter from the clerk to Trumpington
Parish Council asking whether and on what terms the services of the brigade could
be engaged in case of fire. Grantchester Parish Council accepted terms for the
attendance of the brigade in that parish on condition that the charge for the
number of men sent should be limited to the number required.

Friday 18th May

Having just landed a job as one of Britain’s select band of trainee fly-keepers a
Merseyside man is pleased if not actually buzzing with excitement at the prospect.
Yesterday he began his initiation at Lakenheath’s Stallode Fen Farm which breeds
maggots for sale to fishermen. Engulfed in a bristling haze of more than 200,000
wheeling and skittering metallic blue flickering insects it will be his lot to
brave the fly-house daily, supplying fresh minced chicken meat and cleaning away
fly-blown corpses into a maggot incubating room.

1951

The Chief Constable told the NSPCC that he had been surprised to find that there
existed some bad slum areas in Cambridge. He felt that many cases of bad conditions
resulted from the mental condition of the parents. The police found that a number
of people came into their hands as a result of neglect in their childhood days. The
chairman stressed the danger of leaving children alone, especially at night and
thanked the women police officers for their co-operation

1926

The situation was quiet at Romsey Town this morning, the railwaymen concerned in
the new crisis patiently waiting developments which are taking place between the
railway companies and the various unions in London. At the Co-operative Hall a
telegram was read instructing the Cambridge men to remain out on strike until the
unions got satisfactory assurance with regard to the men’s reinstatement
1901

The return of Privates M. Harper of Therfield and W. Sell of Royston from South
Africa was the occasion of much enthusiasm. They were hardly given time to alight
from the train ere they were seized and, headed by the Royston Military Band,
carried shoulder high to the Armoury amid deafening rounds of cheering and shouting
by the large concourse of spectators who had assembled to greet them. Private
Harper’s friends met him with a conveyance and very soon he boarded the trap and
drove away amidst continuous cheering.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 21st May

1976

Cambridgeshire fire fighters are facing their biggest crisis in years as open water
supplies throughout the county dry up. Previously they could have relied on open
supplies like ponds and fen drains when fighting blazes in the county. Now they
will have to summon water tankers to help them. The chief fire officer, Mr John
Maxwell, said: “For the first time in many years supplies are so low they are not
sufficient”. Now urgent talks are being held with Cambridgeshire National Farmers
Union in a bid to stop farmers burning straw and stubble later this year

1951

Weather conditions permitting, a helicopter will be used over Cambridge to make an

experimental traffic count. It is believed to be the first time an aircraft has
been used for this purpose. If the experiment succeeds it will mean a great saving
in manpower. A series of aerial photographs will be taken from the helicopter by
means of an R.A.F photographic reconnaissance camera operated by Mr G.P. Reece of
University Cameras. A cine-film was also being taken of the flow of traffic at
important junctions in the town.

1926

St Ives Town Council expressed feelings of profound relief at the cessation of the
General Strike. St Ives had responded nobly in voluntary service and all classes
had loyally carried out any duty required of them. None of the council employees
relinquished their duty and no single case of lawlessness or friction had occurred
in the town. The committee of ladies who had supplied refreshments at all hours,
night and day, to transport drivers should be especially mentioned.

1901

Sir – I learn with surprise that the starting of the proposed Cyclist Volunteer
Company at Cambridge is “hung up” and may be abandoned owing to an insufficient
number of names having been sent in. I hope we shall be able to prevent such a
conspicuous admission of the want of patriotism on the part of Cambridge cyclists.
We ought not to lag behind Bury St Edmunds where they are organising a company. Ten
more names are wanted to make up the 75 required. – A Would-Be Cyclist Volunteer

Tuesday 22nd May

1976
Cambridge boasts some of Britain’s best buskers and two of them will appear on BBC
Television’s Nationwide. No doubt accordionist Dag Ingram and flautist Michael
Copley will perform classical music with their customary elan but one viewer will
watch with a baleful eye. Jerry Bol, the accomplished 22-instrument one-man band
from Gt Staughton, a veteran of many television appearance, is sometimes belting
out “I love to go a-wandering” at the
same time that his rivals are dashing off a quick burst of Bach.

1951

The finals of the crooning contest were held at the Playhouse Cinema, Mill Road.
Only two finalists competed, Miss Eve Lynn and Mr Bob Garner. Judging was by Mr
Dickie Valentine, who appeared by permission of the New Theatre management. Music
for the finals was supplied by Freddie Webb and his band. Mr Garner was declared
the winner and presented with the Vaughn Munroe trophy by Dickie Valentine, who
then sang three songs at the request of the manager, Mr Eric Dallman.

1926

The Cambridge Joint Emergency Committee wish to place on record their gratitude to
the many friends who have helped the men who were on strike; the ministers and
clergy who lent rooms and the members of the University who gave lectures and
concerts, helped in the club rooms and took parties to see the colleges. Many lent
their cars to distribute the “British Worker”. By means of the Strike Fund the
committee have been able to relieve many cases of distress. The last gathering took
place in the Co-operative Hall which was crowded with hundreds of women who enjoyed
their entertainment.

1901

Sir – As a resident of Bateman Street, Cambridge, permit me to protest against the

closing of the end adjoining Hills Road and converting it into a workman’s yard.
For more than a week we have had to put up with hearing the men at work as early as
six in the morning. One recognises that the work of preparing the foundation of
Hills Road must be done somewhere but it would not require a genius of road-making
to arrange that only one half of the street should be blocked at one time – M.A.

Wednesday 23rd May

1976

Parish pumps are not a frequent topic of debate among parish councils. But Girton
parish council not only discussed the parish pump – they actually had it in the
committee room, a large, broken, rusty object dating from 1902. It had been stolen
by two students and the well had been cemented over. Now the police had recovered
the pump. Members agree there was no point in replacing it and decided to give it
to a collection of rural bye-gones.

1951

Cambridgeshire can now boast one of the finest rural domestic economy kitchens in
the country. Until recently the R.D.E. instructress (Miss M. Constantine) was
housed in a basement in Hills Road, but this was damp and subject to flooding;
consequently the equipment was liable to go rusty. The new kitchen is tucked away
in the grounds of the Shire Hall. It has every kind of cooking stove – electricity,
gas, calor gas, oil and solid fuel and boasts a demonstration oven with a glass
door. A “frig” is to come later.

1926

Messrs Bidwell were to have offered the Anglesey Abbey estate for sale by auction
but have announced they have been successful in selling it privately. We understand
the purchaser is Captain H. R. Broughton. It was actually sold during the General
Strike and now that the prospects for the country are so much brighter and
confidence restored there is a pronounced revival in a general investment in land.
At Haddenham 18 acres of accommodation land were sold to Mr J.C. Parnell of
Stretham for £650.

1901

Parishioners of Toft and Caldecote were present at a meeting protesting against the
dismissal of Miss Veall, the schoolmistress. In February the rector gave out Church
Catechism books to the children and asked them to learn a certain portion as a
home-lesson. Three of the books were returned by the parents who said they did not
wish their children to learn it. Miss Veall returned the books to the Rector and
told him what they had said. He accused her of inviting the parents not to learn
the Catechism and the following day she received notice. Parents proposed starting
a school in the Primitive Methodist Chapel

Thursday 24th May

1976

Plans for radical alterations to two listed cottages in the “Kite area” of
Cambridge, the subject of a long and bitter row between a city man and council
officials, would cost £59,000, it was stated at a planning inquiry. The scheme
involves dismantling and rebuilding an 1825 façade and excavating a basement in
Orchard Street. A council witness said the plan to build a facsimile of the façade
would destroy the weathered texture and unity of the terrace.

1951

Sir Harold Gray of Gog Magog Hills, Cambridge, died in the South of France. He was
elected Conservative MP for Cambridgeshire in 1922 but did not stand in the 1923
election. He was a noted breeder of bloodstock at his estate and for many years ran
horses with considerable success. During the war Sir Harold and his wife, Rowena,
worked continually in France in the hospitals for the care of the wounded and he
also drove his own motor ambulance there for the French Red Cross.

1926

Newmarket Emergency Committee reported that although the General Strike was
declared off yet the coal strike was still on. They allowed several appeals for
extra coal in the cases of sickness or young children. There were 487 tons of house
coal, 320 tons of steam coal and 97 tons of coke on sale. The Master of the
Workhouse had a good supply and the Guardians would probably allow coal being sold
in small quantities.

1901

Barrington parish clerk reported that at the recent parish council election the
stock owners obtained a majority on the council, only two of the old members being
re-elected. He asked whether the fact of their pasturing their horses and stock on
the green disqualifies them from serving, as their intention is to evade all the
laws relating to the village green. The Enclosure Award states that the common
shall be enjoyed by occupiers of cottages who are not owners of land within the
parish. Any others shall forfeit 5s. (25p) for every horse, ass or mule, 3s (15p)
for every head of neat cattle, 1s (5p) for every sheep or swine and 2d (1p) for
every goose. Councillors must not manage the green for their own personal
interests. There were 15 horses, besides other stock on the green.

Friday 25th May

1976

The Turks Head Berni Inn, Trinity Street, Cambridge, sucks inside an almost
relentless stream of visitors. The upstairs bar serves ducking and scampi but we
were heading for the simple steak sort of menu. Our two schooners of sherry cost
32p each and the wine, Cotes de Rhone, £2.34. The food was worth a wait. We had
rump steak (£1.91) and a fillet steak (£2.73) which were very tasty, with chips,
peas and tomatoes. We followed up with chocolate icecreams, which were included in
the main course price. We could have had instead cheese and biscuits. Other
offerings were Dover sole (£2.44) and Sirloin steak (£1.89).

1951

To most the mention of a railway waiting room conjures up a vision of a dismal,

dingy place. But that at Cambridge station is a very different state of affairs –
in fact such a bright and cheerful room that I felt it would be quite a pleasure to
lose one’s train and have to sit there and wait for another! The colour scheme is a
bright green and cream and the old-fashioned leather bench type seats have been
replaced by small brown leather armchairs. In the ladies’ waiting-room one beholds
the astonishing sight of fresh flowers.

1926

Stretham annual feast was in progress when an 11-year-old boy ran from behind a
stall and attempted to cross the road. At the same time a large motor van was
passing and before any warning could be given the boy slipped under the wheels,
which passed over his body. Dr Howe was sent for immediately and the boy, under the
care of P.C. Waghorn, was removed in an ambulance to Addenbrooke’s Hospital where
he lies in an extremely critical condition

1901

Guidice Gelsomnio, an Italian organ-grinder was summonsed for playing a musical

instrument in Jesus Lane, Cambridge; as the defendant did not understand English an
interpreter named Antonio Arpino was engaged. The occupier of Little Trinity, Mr
James Herbert Taylor, said he asked him to desist playing within 100 yards of his
house. Defendant gave up playing and went away. He was playing in Bridge Street in
the evening. P.C. Evans measured the distance to be 75 yards. Defendant said he did
not know how many yards it was from one house to another. He was fined 2s.6d.

Monday 28th May

1976

Sixteen-year-old Jayne’s new hair-do in aid of charity landed her in trouble at

school. And it was not the style that caused a fuss, it was the colour. For her
dark brown hair had been dyed … bright green. She is a pupil at Melbourn village
college and had her hairstyle altered at a charity fashion show at the YMCA. “As
soon as I walked into college I was told off and told not to go back until I had
had the dye taken out”, she said. At Reed’s Hairdressing Salon they said: “I find
it difficulty to believe that in 1976 a girl could be taken home from school for
this reason”. Other girls had had their hair coloured peacock blue, violet
burgundy, sky blue and brilliant blue at the nape of the neck.

1951

Should new industry come to Cambridgeshire it should, if possible, be guided into

the areas more remote from the city, concludes the County Planning Department. “In
general industry should be encouraged only in those areas away from Cambridge where
greater diversity, particularly for women, is needed. It is suggested that the most
suitable places are the small towns lying just outside the county boundary”.
Cambridge had always had low unemployment rate and there seems no likelihood of
unemployment becoming a serious problem in the future, they say

1926

Cambridge court heard that when an undergraduate came to Magdalene College he

brought with him a bay gelding, worth £200, which was placed in stables in
Cambridge and hunted with the Cambs Hunt and the University Draghounds. In December
an agreement was reached with the L.N.E.R. for the carriage of the horse to
Berwickshire. During loading into the horsebox at the station it lurched forward,
fell out and broke its spine.

1901

Messrs Bidwell, auctioneers, conducted a very successful sale of property in

Wheeler Street and Parsons Court, Cambridge. Two shops with a dwelling house, being
No.11 Peas Hill, sold for £2,050. Nos.1 & 2 Wheeler Street comprising a cabinet-
makers shop, with dwelling house, and a harness maker’s shop brought in £1,800
while a private house in Parsons Court was knocked down for £750

Tuesday 29th May

1976

Dave “Boy” Green, seen in the fens as a reincarnation of their living legend, Eric
“Golden Boy” Boon seeks the British title at the Royal Albert Hall. His ferocious
fists have left a trail of 15 beaten bodies on his way to the title fight against
Joey Singleton. It is fighter against boxer, the punches of the slugger from the
country against the wits of the artful dodger from the city. When the bell goes he
will storm forward like a runaway thresher throwing out punches from all angles,
punches launched from awesome shoulders with murderous momentum – ten stone of
terror on the rampage. He first put on gloves then years ago when he went to the
local amateur boxing club in Chatteris

1951

A sale of considerable interest at Harston attracted a large company. The period

residence, Harston Manor, with 15 acres and two cottages realised £8,000 after keen
competition. The Manor Home Farm of 84 acres was knocked down at £5,800. A pair of
cottages in Church Street realised £300 and an adjoining pair were sold for the
exceptional figure of £390.
1926

An appeal for the modification of the ban on gramophone music has been addressed to
the Vice Chancellor on behalf of a party of musical undergraduates. University
orders forbid the playing of gramophones in punts on the river during the May terms
and gramophone music has been banned from certain colleges altogether. “We have no
wish to express any opinion upon the playing of jazz records but suggest the
playing of good music, such as the London String Quartet, by students in their
hours of relaxation on the river could do nothing but enhance the beauty of the
surroundings and the taste of the modern young man”, they say.

1901

Cambridge was visited by a thunderstorm. The temperature of the air reached 83

degrees in the shade and was at its most oppressive about mid-day when indications
of an approaching storm were observed but the flashes were never very vivid. Thick
black clouds rolled up; peals of thunder were heard and lightning was visible in
the town. A downpour of rain occurred for a short time but altogether a very meagre
quantity sprinkled the parched ground.

Wednesday 30th May

1976

A £34,000 radio link for Cambridgeshire doctors – the largest radio communication
system in Britain – proved its effectiveness by calling out a doctor from a dinner
to celebrate its opening. Dr Simon Bailey, a Newmarket General Practitioner, was
amongst those who watched David Lane, MP, open the control room of the system. An
hour later a pocket-bleeping device brought him away from his meal to the telephone
and news of a suspected heart attack. Mr Neville Silverston, secretary of the
organisation who set up the service, added that without the bleeper Dr Bailey would
have had to miss the dinner altogether

1951

A picture taken from HMS Belfast while on patrol off the Korean coast gives some
idea of the conditions in which the Royal Navy has been operating. It comes from
two Cambridgeshire lads who are serving aboard this, the flagship of the British
Far Eastern Naval Unit. Norman Peters from Cambridge and John Vickery of Fulbourn
are both only 17 years old and are Seamen Boys. When in action they are on four-
inch anti-aircraft guns.

1926

A journey to London and back in an invalid chair is something of an achievement.

This is how Mr H.D. Davies, son of Dr Davis of Histon, spent the Whitsun holiday.
Starting from home at 10.30 am Sunday, he reached London at 7.30 pm having stopped
at Royston en route for dinner. Early next morning he had a run into the city. He
returned to Cambridge safely at 8.30. Mr Davis has ridden in his chair for two
years or more but had never been father than Saffron Walden before. His chair was
“the ordinary standard pattern” and he could travel at a rate of ten miles an hour,
“But of course I have to go slow uphill”, he added.
1901

Never has a battle been fought with more determination that that engaging the
attention of the electorate in the Saffron Walden Division. That both parties were
alive to a full day’s work was evidenced by the number of vehicles of every
description which were to be seen in the streets at an early hour. Among the
Liberal conveyances were many from the north of England. Within the first hour 140
electors had recorded their votes. Polling clerks were busy between one and two
when a number of mechanics “turned in”.

Thursday 31st May

1976

Vibration from heavy lorries thundering along Victoria Road, Cambridge, is causing
considerable damage to some of the houses in the road, residents claim. Other have
suffered cracking and crumbling mortar and damage to roof tiles. “The lorries are
worse than ever now. It’s not just the noise and vibration, it’s the smell as
well”, says Mrs Mabel Haggis. The City Surveyor said: “The Northern bypass, which
will be completed by the end of 1977, should lead to a considerable easing of the
situation.”

1951

There are about 170 children under the care of the County Council’s Children
Committee. The majority are children who have been deprived of a normal home life.
Some are orphans or illegitimate. Others have been abandoned by their parents or
found by a court to be in need of care or protection. The aim of the committee is
to find a substitute, but real home to take the place of the one from which the
child has been deprived. Their four children’s homes are overcrowded and full to
saturation point. They should accommodate 16 children but are housing 23

1926

Cambridge councillors agreed to allow the Mammoth Show Society to use part of Jesus
Green on August Bank Holiday, on the understanding it is the last occasion they
will be permitted to use it. No roundabouts are to be allowed on to the show
ground. It was amazing that when ratepayers’ money had been spent in laying out one
of the finest recreation grounds anything should be permitted which would plough it
up again. The Mammoth Show Committee seemed to be trying to convince the public
that the council were trying to deprive them of a show. It had got bigger than a
town of this size need for a single day

1901

During one of the heaviest storms ever known at Bottisham a barn in the occupation
of Mr C. Potter, general dealer, was struck by lightning and owing to the
inflammable nature of the materials of which it was built, was in flames in an
instant. There were in the barn a pony, two sows, seven other pigs, a cart and some
dipping tackle; all these were destroyed. During the storm rain fell in torrents,
which will be beneficial to the parched crops.

Friday 1st June

1976

The Kite is a thriving shopping and business centre with all the charm of a village
within Cambridge, where the scale is human, where homes and businesses blend and
where shopkeepers and shoppers know each other. It wears its quirks and curiosities
proudly; where else could you browse through art nouveau curios (James Street),
munch a crispy delicious waffle dripping maple syrup (Waffles) or buy a bargain
pine dresser (City Road). There’s a Kite community fighting every inch of the way
to preserve the homes, the shops and the personality of this game little patch of
Victorian Cambridge which is now more full of life than ever.

1951

The Vicar of Over send a letter alleging that the Cambridgeshire Agricultural
Executive Committee was not cultivating properly requisitioned portions of Over
fen. On Monday heavy tackle began ploughing the land – and he sent another letter
enclosing a sample of self-sown barley which they are ploughing with heavy tackle.
“Had I known this was the planned economy of the AEC I would have asked permission
to graze 100 sheep on it, but apparently in the interests of maximum efficiency it
must go under”, he said

1926

Sawston is feeling the ill-effects of the general strike. Of nearly 150 who left
the Paper Mills, nearly 70 are still out. For about a week the union members
remained solid, but after this some began to return to work. A condition of any
that are re-engaged is that they would sign a declaration that they would have
nothing more to do with any union. A good many employees have worked at the mills
for many years but the formation of the local branch of the union is quite recent,
having started in April 1925.

1901

“Knackeries”, are places where diseased and other horses and cows are slaughtered.
The common instrument used is the “pole-axe” which requires a large amount of
practice to despatch an animal properly. Others resort to the gun, shot cartridges
being preferable to bullets. The flesh is cut off the bones, boiled and sent to
London for cats’ meat, the fat is boiled down and sold for greasing carts and the
bones ground into manure. Through all this work of killing, bleeding etc the sub-
soil becomes saturated with the fluids which soon decompose and create a horrible
stench

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 4th June

1976

When Mr Len Colvill first opened the door of his shop, horses and carts ambled by
in Linton High Street and sugar, dried fruit and soap powder arrived by the
sackful. The shop, which has remained an unchanged landmark in the village scene
for 45 years is to close for good this week with the retirement of Mr Colvill and
his wife Amy. Since 1931 customers have been served in an oak-beamed room stacked
high with a complete range of household necessities.

1951
The Mayor of Cambridge toured three of the council’s housing estates and saw the
2000th council house to be built since the war. It is on a 61-acre site at
Newmarket Road which will accommodate 244 houses and 160 flats. The house has three
bedrooms, a drawing room and a kitchen. With outbuildings it cost £1,417. The Mayor
handed the key to the lucky tenant, Mr F.A. Cross, who said: “My speech must be
brief. I’m much to excited to get inside and see around”. He has been waiting over
five years to get a house

1926

Cambridge councillors heard that in 1912 a piece of land in Shelley Row, together
with the house adjoining was given anonymously to the Corporation as a perpetual
playground to the children of Castle End. It was assumed that the rent of the house
would be available for the upkeep and improvement of the playground. £80 would be
required to make a really satisfactory playground; it was resolved to spend £20 on
putting the ground in order

1901

Sir – There is now in course of erection a new knackery in Coldham Lane, Cambridge
where some 300 horses can be slaughtered daily with improved appliances for their
expeditious slaughter at a minimum amount of pain. To throw the expense upon the
ratepayers of the erection of a public knackery, whereby individual enterprise is
thwarted, should not be encouraged. The fact that there is already a thoroughly
efficient slaughterhouse hardly warrants the expense of a new one being thrown upon
the ratepayers – “Vigilant”

Tuesday 5th June

1976

Dave “Boy” Green returned in triumph to his home town of Chatteris parading the
Lonsdale Belt through the streets in a horse and cart after his British light-
welterweight win against Joey Singleton. A crowd of about 700 fans greeted him as
he arrived at a civic reception at Cromwell Community College – his old school. He
plans to continue his work at a Southery carrot-packing plant & stick to his
planned route towards an eventual blockbuster showdown with Britain’s world
welterweight champion, John H. Stracey.

1951

“One would like Cambridge to have one outlet where people could walk out and get
straight into the country” Dr G.M. Trevelyan, Master of Trinity College, told the
Council for the Preservation of Rural England. He advocated the desirability of
leaving the west side of Cambridge free from development and preserve it as
countryside. This was injured to some extent by the erection of a factory on the
Madingley Road and though this was partly destroyed during the war there is a
danger since it still stands.

1926

Cambridgeshire Nursing Association considered it must be a great strain on a nurse

to have to go long distances on an ordinary bicycle. If they were supplied with
motor bicycles they would be able to get to their cases sooner and cover a larger
area. The expanse ran to about £11 or £12 per year but there was a possibility of
taking on fresh villages through a great ease with which a nurse could travel from
one place to another
1901

In court Mr E.T. Hooley said that at one time the Papworth Estate was his property.
At the time of his “misfortunes” it was bought by friends of his for his wife for
£65,000. The amount of his indebtedness at his bankruptcy was £1,087,000 which was
reduced by the courts to under £300,000; his creditors had 2s. in the £. He now
lived at Papworth in the same state & affluence as he did before. He had plans to
buy the Caxton Gibbet public house and rebuilt it on the other side of the road on
his own property which would be a distinct improvement

Wednesday 6th June

1976

The Royal Observer Corps posts, about one every 15 miles, are concrete bunkers
buried deep in the ground. They are proof against radiation and a moderate amount
of blast. If the radiation levels are intense the observers must be prepared to
stay at their post for long periods, in total isolation. Should the very worst
occur and the post find itself totally cut off with radiation reaching dangerous
levels they could warn those residents above ground by operating their portable
siren.

1951

Portions of Over fen which so far are uncropped sprouted a “harvest” of notices
during the night. It is held under requisition by the Cambridgeshire Agricultural
Executive Committee. At the corner of Sharp’s Drove was the wording, “To the
docks”. This referred to 12 acres of that plant. Where the AEC has recently been
ploughing-in self-sown barley was the wording “In the interests of colonial
development 2ft 6 inches goes ‘down under’”

1926

A demonstration of ju jitsu was given in Cambridge by Mr A.J. Morgan and C.W.

Boxsell who deputised for Professor Saddington and the son of Professor Sitton, the
old University boxing instructor. A carpet about five feet square was requisitioned
for a mat and Professor Saddington supplied ju jitsu costumes. The proceedings
opened with a demonstration of “Kime-no-Kata, or ju jitsu self-defence methods.
This was followed by methods of defence against an armed assailant which was loudly
applauded. A display of ju jitsu wrestling literally brought the house down.

1901

A goodly number of citizens assembled at the presentation to the Ely Volunteers in

recognition of their service in South Africa. A good English lever watch and a sum
of money was presented to Chaplain Crookham, Corp Wilkinson, Trooper W. Long and
Privates Barnard, Chapman, Richardson & Cullum. There were three more who they
hoped would be coming home some day, viz Serg Rickwood & Troopers Ferris and Head.
Their gifts would be reserved for them. These young men of the Empire had sprang
spontaneously forward to offer their services & it was wonderful to see men
occupied mostly in sedentary pursuits coming to the front with all the old spirit
of their forefathers.
Thursday 7th June

1976

A Sawston housewife, Pam Parfey, did the shopping for the next six weeks last night
– and didn’t have to pay a penny. She was the lucky winner of a competition, “Rob
the Co-op”. The prize was £100-worth of groceries. There was just one hitch – Mrs
Parfey and one helper had to pick up the food and take it through the check-out in
fewer than 15 minutes. They managed it with two minutes to spare

1951

Installed as Chancellor of Cambridge University before the brilliantly robed

dignitaries of the University and a crowded Senate House, Marshall of the Royal Air
Forces, Lord Tedder, described it as “The greatest honour that can ever come to a
Cambridge man”. King’s Parade was crowded with people seeking a glimpse of this
unique event whilst inside the Senate House itself every available inch of room was
taken up with people standing inside the windowsills. The gallery too was crowded,
mostly with undergraduates and girl students.

1926

Now that the excitement of the General Strike has passed away it may be of interest
to note the effect of the strike upon local employment. Messrs Pye have only had
about 2½ days short time but at the Cement Works the coal difficulty has resulted
in a spell of enforced idleness for some of the hands. The Saxon Company’s
employees are being given their usual holidays on full pay and since short time
started have been given work turn and turn about on repairs but unless the coal
comes along there will be no more work for the present.

1901

After the rowing races at Ditton Corner & when the crush of small boats was at its
height, a steam launch crowded with people endeavoured to force its way through the
block of boats. Frantic endeavours were made to get out of its way but the launch
crashed into a boat which contained two men, who were thrown into the river. Shouts
from bystanders eventually brought the launch to a standstill but no effort was
made to render any assistance. What would have been the results had the boat
contained ladies. All launches should have a look-out man on the bow as it is
impossible to see from the stern what is happening in front.

Friday 8th June

1976

A cloak and dagger plan by the National Front to embarrass the Home Secretary, Mr
Roy Jenkins, backfired. They had organised a protest by more than 60 people for his
visit to St Ives – but he was not there. Four days ago he said he could not attend
a Hunts In Europe dinner – but the National Front did not discover this until they
arrived. They contented themselves with propaganda shouted over a loud-hailer

1951

The news that the King has been advised to take a complete rest was received in
Cambridge with deep concern, because it raises the question “Will the King be able
to visit the city, as arranged on July 5th?” His majesty had agreed not only to
come for the Royal Show but to pay a short visit to the Guildhall in connection
with the city’s new status. All of us hope that the King will not have to add
Cambridge to the list of cancelled engagements. In the meantime letters inviting a
number of people to attend at the Guildhall have gone out from the Town Clerk

1926

Mr Ramsay Macdonald, ex-Labour Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition will not
be one of the recipients of honorary degrees at Cambridge. His name was included in
the Grace to come before the Senate but certain members intended to “Non Placet” it
& a flysheet was to be issued declaring this intention. News to this effect reached
Macdonald who signified that he did not wish it to go forward unless it was
absolutely unanimous. Opposition was more or less spontaneous because he was a
party to an illegal act in bringing about the General Strike.

1901

Newmarket’s M.P., Col. H. McCalmont was welcomed home after 18 month’s absence on
active service in South Africa. In Upper Station Road hung a motto 51 feet in
length with the words “Welcome Home”. Crowds of people lined the side-walks and
congregated in the Station Yard. The town band and engine of the Fire Brigade were
drawn up near the platform. On the day of the election Mr C.D. Rose, his opponent
and he were both in Bloemfontein and might have fought it out there. Mrs McCalmont
had fought the battle and won him the election

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 11th June

1976

Pound a gallon petrol, now a nightmarish possibility, would not only present
problems to the motorist but to petrol companies as well. National Benzole gave a
demonstration of futurist forecourt equipment, including a petrol pump head which
could not only cope with metric measurements – litres instead of gallons – but
which was also geared up for prices of a pound a gallon or more. If prices were to
rise to 85p a gallon then most existing blender pumps would not be able to cope
with it. Originally pumps were designed for prices like 33p per gallon

1951

The Cambridgeshire of the future will have a number of new roads, fire & police
stations, sewerage schemes, old peoples’ homes, a new children’s home and a mental
deficiency colony. Planners say villages recommended for enlargement include
Milton, Fulbourn, Shelford, Barton and Coton where the population will increase
from 400 to 1,840. Road improvements recommended include a bypass to the east of
Girton relinking the road interrupted by the RAF station but Cambridge bypasses are
not shown as surveys show there is no immediate need for them.

1926

A large crowd assembled in the grounds at Cherry Hinton Road, Cambridge to see the
daring leap from an aeroplane by Mr Geoffrey V. Peck. The descent was made with a
Guardian Angel parachute from an aeroplane travelling at nearly 100 mph and 1,000
feet high. Crowds rushed to the adjacent field where Mr Peck had landed; he was
surrounded by eager autograph hunters and signed innumerable photos. Passenger
flying was very popular and the pilot will loop the loop and corkscrew at a
slightly higher cost. The two aeroplanes belong to the Southern Counties’ Aviation
Company and are quite reliable so anyone who would like to fly should avail
themselves of this opportunity.

1901

There has been no abatement in the interest displayed in this year’s Mathematical
tripos at Cambridge University. There were 73 male candidates and of these no fewer
than 27 are directly interested in sport. Women started well with one of their
number taking a high place in part one while in part two Miss Hudson of Newnham
equalled the highest achievement of any man

Tuesday 12th June

1976

Cambridge chauffeur-punt service on the Backs can go ahead again this summer.
Third-year Law student at Trinity Hall, Mr Jeremy Nicholson ran the service for a
limited period last year but his application for a new licence was refused by the
city council because of complaints from fishermen. Now it has been renewed with
conditions about insurance and the condition of the boats.

1951

Cambridgeshire firemen have been issued with stronger-than-steel latest-type

helmets. “They are made of laminated plastic and are practically bullet-proof”,
chief officer T. Knowles said. They will not dent when dropped and are proof
against electric currents. They cost just over £3 each and replace the ordinary
service-type steel helmet previously worn by firemen.

1926

Sir – the aeroplanes which make daily trips from a field off the Cherry Hinton
Road, Cambridge, are becoming something of a nuisance. They have been here nearly a
month and show no signs of going away. They fly low over the houses and are even
more of a nuisance on Sundays. A quiet residential district like the Rock Estate is
not an appropriate district for amusements of this kind which should be carried on
over open country, far from places where people live and work – John Bousfield,
Cavendish Avenue.

1901

Yarmouth Guardians received a report on the dissection of paupers’ bodies. They had
been sent to Cambridge by officials of the workhouse since 1881. Professor
Macalister sent a cheque for £6 14s 6d for each body but only £5 10s 0d was really
incurred for expenses. The railway charge for the carriage of a body was £4 6s.0d
but the Master’s clerk said it was £4 9s.0d and that he put the other 3s. in the
poor box. £1 was paid for a coffin but he received 1s. from the undertaker. All the
clerk had to do was to see the body was screwed down, go to the railway station and
pay the charge. He said he gave the porters sixpence each but inquiry proved they
only received a pint of beer.

Wednesday 13th June

1976
The newly-created Roman Catholic Bishop of East Anglia, the Rt Rev Alan Clarke, was
at Huntingdon to carry out his first official engagement. The occasion was a
special mass to mark both the centenary of the founding of the parish of St Michael
and the 75th anniversary of the Hartford Road Church of St Michael the Archangel.
Afterwards he went to USAF Alconbury for lunch as the guest of the officers.

1951

A new one-way traffic system around the Cambridge guildhall comes into operation on
Monday. The direction of traffic in Wheeler Street will be reversed to complete the
circulatory flow around the guildhall into an anti-clockwise direction and traffic
around Market Hill in a clockwise flow. Buses will be unaffected by the new order
but say instead of hoards of cyclists crossing over in their path all vehicles will
turn in the direction the buses approach the guildhall. The scheme has resulted
from the necessity to ease traffic around the guildhall in view of the proposed
Lion Yard car park development

1926

Sir – you published a letter complaining of the noise and inconvenience caused by
aeroplanes at present operating from a field on Cherry Hinton Road. These ‘gypsy’
aircraft companies which tour up and down the country giving joy-rides are
educating the country up to aerial transport. They are giving people an “air-sense”
which is essential before aviation can become at all general; people have to be
made to realise how extraordinarily safe flying is even at present, when several
problems of control have yet to be completely solved – S.V.C., Christ’s College

1901

Between 400 and 500 guests were present at the ball of the First and Third Trinity
Boat Club held in the Cambridge Guildhall. Supper was served in the Corn Exchange
by Mr W.E. Wood of Trinity Kitchen, who hit upon the happy idea of purchasing all
the exhibition roses in the Horticultural Society’s show with which to decorate the
supper tables. Stanislaus Wurm’s orchestra provided the music.

Thursday 14th June

1976

The Vicar of the Church of the Good Shepherd, Arbury estate, the Rev Martin Suter,
climbed up the scaffolding to see workmen put the finishing touches to the iron and
gold-leaf cross on the top of the church. He said a prayer of dedication before
joining churchwardens and workmen for a glass of beer on the roof. It was one of
the last things that had to be done before work on the church is completed in time
for the visit of Princess Margaret, who laid the foundation stone in 1957

1951

Residents of Abbey Ward, Cambridge, described as “a constant menace to health” the

dust which comes from the Gas Works and enters their houses. Mr W. Barling produced
a sugar bag half filled with dust which he said was collected in his house in one
week. Another resident said she could not put her children in a pram in the garden
because of the dust. A Gas Board official said a contributory factor may have been
the burning of wood owing to the shortage of coal resulting in more dust and smoke
getting into the atmosphere. The works had the reputation of being one of the
cleanest in the country. As soon as the gas industry was nationalised endeavours
would be made to reduce the problem

1926

Newmarket surveyor reported the correspondence he had had with the Automobile
Association with respect to the signs relating to 10 mph limit through the town.
They alleged that a prosecution had taken place for exceeding the speed limit which
had arisen through a motorist proceeding from a side street where was no sign. He
said two of the speed limit indication signs, one in the Avenue and one in Rous
Road were now down and it was resolved that they be re-erected.

1901

On the occasion of the annual ball the precincts of picturesque Clare college were
lavishly illuminated and decorated. The centre path of the court was covered in and
carpeted; palms were placed in groups on the lawn and the whole court made
brilliant with hundreds of fairy lamps and Chinese lanterns. Rows of fairy lamps
along the river side gave the garden a particularly beautiful appearance. Dancing
took place in the hall and the combination room. There were 21 dances on the
programme and three supper dances. Supper was set in the reading room

Friday 15th June

1976

The first 1000 pints were on the house as friends of traditional British draught
beer packed the Salisbury Arms, Tenison Road, Cambridge for its reopening under the
ownership of CAMRA Investments Ltd. The pub was bought from Whitbread last year for
£22,000 and has been renovated from top to bottom. It is their first pub in East
Anglia.

1951

Cambridge councillors heard that the cattle market has become one of the most
important cattle centres in the country as a result of the great increase in the
amount of business transacted since the war. Problems had arisen because of the
serious congestion of traffic in Hills Road when large sales are held and the need
for better facilities for traders and customers. It was not designed for holding
large sales of agricultural machines nor for the provision of parking accommodation
for upwards of 1,200 motor vehicles.

1926

A large bus belonging to Messrs Bowyer and Topper of Ely was returning from the
Soham Grammar School sports, and was filled with Ely citizens, mostly ladies. Some
distance from Stuntney a motor lorry, proceeding in the same direction, made an
attempt to pass. The bus driver pulled off to the left but the lorry drove too
close, knocking the hub of one of the wheels off. The bus turned to the left and
rushed into the dyke, falling on to its left side with its radiator embedded in the
bank. The occupants were in a serious plight with seats collapsing and broken glass
flying about in all directions. Most of the ladies suffered from shock and it will
be some time before they will recover from it
1901

Messrs Sutton and Phillips, brewers’ chemists of Stowmarket claimed £10 3s.6d. from
the Rodney Brewery, Cambridge. They make Burton spring liquor and ask for a sample
of the customer’s brewing water which they analyse and make up a mixture to make it
as near as Burton water as possible. If they did not subsequently receive an order
they were to be paid for the analysis. Mr Swan for the brewery said they had never
used the liquor and did not like trying those sorts of things. When he said the
traveller could have a sample of water he had no idea he was to be charged with the
analysis of it.
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 18th June

1976

When the Rector of Conington, the Rev John Jones, found that the vestry needed
rebuilding, he didn't launch a restoration fund, instead he and some of his
parishioners did the job themselves. Work started on Easter Monday when a group of
15 people demolished the original wall. Since then he has been helped by
churchwarden Mr Frank Murder, farmer Phillip Papworth and a Lolworth builder, Mr
Laurie James, who built the new cavity wall.

1951

During the last few days twelve thatchers, all members of the East Midlands Master
Thatchers Association have been working on pavilions at the Rural Industries Bureau
stand at the Royal Showground, Trumpington, to show what expert thatching looks
like. One is thatched with long straw, one with Norfolk reed and the other with
Devon reed.

1926

The Mayor of Cambridge told members of the Special Constabulary that the general
strike had come as a “staggerer” to him. They had had to appoint various officers
to control the various department of work – the food, transport, coal, volunteer
service and Special Constabulary. It was impossible to forget their service and the
willingness to help their town and country. No one on May 3rd knew what lay before
them. They had been as near to revolution as they would ever be, but they faced the
situation as Britishers should. What would have happened had the people been
disloyal and untrustworthy he could not bear to think.

1901

Chesterton R.D.C. heard that Harlton was not badly supplied with water but a few
houses were situated on the gault and could not obtain a supply except from the
green sand at a considerable depth, from the spring at Bulter’s Spinney which would
have to be raised by some motor or from the church from which the greater part of
the village is supplied. They should search for a disused well indicated as
existing on Monk’s land in the angle near Yew Tree Gate and make experimental
boring at three places.
Tuesday 19th June

1976

Cambridgeshire’s motorists are being treated to nearly £60m of new roads but they
have a price to pay … years of disruptive construction work. Top priority is the
northern bypass which is due to start in August. An important adjunct is
improvements on the A604 Huntingdon road which will be turned into a dual
carriageway. Elsewhere the County Council is constructing a dual carriageway from
Coldham’s Lane to Barnwell Bridge; a dualling of Newmarket road beyond this will be
delayed until the effect of the northern by-pass can be seen. Next year remains the
official start date for the western bypass

1951

Strong protests were voiced at the District Trades Council when the proposed car
park site on Parker’s Piece came under discussion. Mr C. Hatton said: “We have seen
parts of Christ’s Pieces and the whole of Donkeys Common disappear and now there
are proposals to encroach on Parker’s Piece. We cannot too jealously guard such a
priceless amenity”. He would like to see all car waiting in the centre of Cambridge
abolished and car parks instituted on the outskirts of the city

1926

St Ives Housing Committee heard reports on defective houses. One house in

Wellington Street was so dilapidated that a demolition order was necessary. A large
heap of manure had accumulated in a hovel at the back and outside buildings were in
a dilapidated condition. It was difficult to deal with properties which were
defective when it was known that the owners were not in a flourishing financial
condition. There was not the slighted doubt that the housing problem was a serious
one. It was imperative to do something for people who could not pay high rents.

1901

Godmanchester town council are making a claim against Mrs Hooley for special damage
to their roads caused by the use of traction engines with heavy waggons attached
between Godmanchester station and Papworth. Mr Hooley said he had spent £15,000 in
building materials for his place at Papworth but nothing had been carted which
could be considered extraordinary traffic. He would not pay a penny piece until he
was made to

Wednesday 20th June

1976

Wimpole Hall, the massive mansion which until her death last month was the home of
Rudyard Kipling’s daughter, Mrs Elsie Bambridge, has been left to the National
Trust – which is uncertain it will accept responsibility for the bequest. “What we
have to know whether she has left sufficient money to endow the maintenance of the
property. Mrs Bambridge was an old lady and people did not go to the hall much. It
has been a fairly closed house for some time and may need a good deal of work doing
to it before it can be opened”, a spokesman said. If they did accept the bequest
Wimpole Hall would eventually be open to the public. “

1951

A modern automatic telephone exchange will be brought into service at Willingham.

It will enable subscribers to obtain calls on Cambridge and 18 other exchanges
without the assistance of the operator. At the same time the post office proposes
to introduce the 999 scheme for emergency calls from the Willingham exchange.

1926

Saffron Walden council heard that 52 houses in Hockley’s Yard. Ingleside Place,
Bridge Street, Castle Street, Camp’s Yard, East Street, Long Row and Museum Court
were beyond satisfactory repair and should be condemned. The following sites are
available and can be purchased if the council decide to proceed with the housing
scheme: Little Walden Road, Radwinter Road, Thaxted Road and Seward’s End. Eight
houses should be erected in each site

1901

A large number witnessed the quaint custom of the presentation of the wooden spoon
to the last man in the University Mathematical Tripos. This year two candidates
were bracketed at the bottom of the list and both gentlemen received large spoons
emblazoned and trimmed with their college colours. The spoons were lowered down to
their owners from the gallery in the Senate House amid much interest. Mess Crisp &
Co of King’s Parade, Cambridge, again supplied the spoons, which were artistically
painted and decorated. Mr D. Buchanan, who comes from South Africa, has had an
additional spoon presented to him by his South African friends, with the arms and
coloured ribbons of Cape Colony.

Thursday 21st June

1976

Cambridge’s newest language school, the Newnham Language Centre, was officially
opened at a reception. It is the brainchild of Mr Michael Short who was adult tutor
at Comberton village college for ten years. Students pay £70 for a four-week
vacation course or £165 for a ten-week term and stay with Cambridge families. Tours
to colleges and local country houses are arranged. It aims to provide facilities
for small groups to learn the language in really attractive surroundings.

1951

Reg King, the cycle specialist, Cambridge. 400 new cycles in stock; ladies and
gent’s cycles, every frame size and type – roadster, tourist, safety, oil-path
models and hubdymo lighting. Tricycles from £6.19.0. Pay-as-you-ride plan. No
references, no enquiries, no delay. Just pay and ride away; any reliable payer
accepted. Cycles from £2 down and 5s. weekly. Reg King wants your business –
Advert.

1926

One of the contingents of Women Peacemakers who are converging on London from
various parts of the country arrived in Cambridge. Meetings had been held in
village after village by the side of the war memorials. They were met by members of
the local Pilgrimage Committee and proceeded to the Market Hill where an impromptu
meeting was held. They carried various banners and red and blue flags. Mrs Rackham
said the gathering recalled the great Women’s Suffrage Pilgrimage of 1913 when
crowds gathered on the same spot. The Pilgrims leave for Saffron Walden tomorrow.
1901

Thomas R. of Cave’s Yard, Old Chesterton was charged with having stolen a drake.
Detective Marsh said he saw the prisoner with a sack on his back. He opened it and
found a large brown and white drake which Thomas said he had bought yesterday from
a man named Pope of Upware for 2s.6d. (12p). The bird was quite warm – prisoner
replied it had been in his house by a blazing fire all day. Then he said: “I
knocked it over down the fen against the sewage farm. It came out of a ditch and I
gave it a crump. I ain’t going to starve as long as there is anything about. You
can do what you like: hang me if you like”. He was remanded for a week.

Friday 22nd June

1976

The annual swim through Cambridge, organised by the Granta swimming club, has had
to be cancelled for the first time in about 40 years because of the low level of
water in the river Cam. Because of possible pollution problems they dare not risk
the health hazards involved but hope to put the event on again next year. Typically
70-75 women and about 80 men would enter the event

1951

In order to improve the standard of driving, plain-clothed ‘courtesy” police

officers are to patrol main roads in Huntingdonshire. High-powered motorcycles may
replace the present light-weight machines. They would be ridden by efficient men
over 30. If they patrolled the roads – particularly the Great North Road – the
efficiency of driving would improve tremendously. If drivers could be told in a
gentlemanly way that they are doing wrong it would be much better than bringing
cases to the courts.

1926

A meeting of the Women’s Peacemakers’ Pilgrimage was attended by a large audience

at Cambridge Guildhall. In the next war they would have aeroplanes dropping
poisonous bombs that would destroy civilians who had never been near the firing
line. They must create such an atmosphere of repugnance that the nations dare not
go to war. There were hundreds of people in Newmarket who were not yet converted to
the idea of the League of Nations and it was their duty to make converts of al who
had not yet joined them.

1901

Midsummer Fair, the delight of children and the pleasure of not a few adults was
formally opened. On reaching an open space councillors in their carriages commenced
throwing the coppers. A spirit of mischief seemed to be present in the first
carriage for the coins fell thickest in close proximity to the crockery-ware
stalls, one or two even finding a resting place amongst plates. The children pushed
and hustled with such energy that a few of the articles were damaged, much to the
disgust of the proprietor

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 25th June

1976

Thaxted Morris Ring danced in the church at the funeral of a founder member of the
ring. “We danced to the glory of God and the memory of Mr Fred Caton”, said their
bag-man, Wilfred Abbs. Mr Caton joined the first team of Thaxted Morris dancers
formed in 1911. He danced with then until a few months before his death at the age
of 79. His musical talents extended to the town’s brass band of which he was the
last surviving member.

1951

Starting from scratch twelve months ago, and sponsored by Bedford members, the
Round Table of Cambridge now boasts some 32 members and was formally presented with
its charter at a dinner at the University Arms. Altogether almost 100 people were
present including the City and County members of parliament, Mr Hamilton Kerr and
Mr Gerald Howard. Mr A. Shaw of Northampton gave the health of the City of
Cambridge. His was the longest, most witty, but almost unreportable speech of the
evening. Toastmaster for the evening was Mr F.W. Elworthy.

1926

So far May Week has been a pale and melancholy ghost of its former self. What with
the powerful counter-attraction of Ascot, the fact that a good many of the men have
already “gone down”, the restricted train service and the gloomy uncertainty of the
weather, Cambridge is having a bad time just now and tradesmen, hotel and lodging-
house keepers, boat-proprietors and others who look to May Week to bring a little
much-needed grist to their mill have received a severe blow. Usually May Week comes
before Ascot, and visitors to the Mays have been accustomed to go from Cambridge to
Ascot. Now that Ascot is over there seems to be no reason which the process should
not be reversed.

1901

Sir George Gabriel Stokes, the distinguished mathematician, and the Master of
Pembroke met with a carriage accident from which they fortunately escaped without
serious injury. The horse by some means got one if its hind legs over the trace,
became frightened and dashed across the road. The wheels came into violent contact
with the pathway and the carriage was overturned, but fortunately before this had
taken place both occupants had managed to get out.

Tuesday 26th June

1976

The fenland onion crop, worth about £9m., is being threatened by the drought.
Rainfall has been so low that it looks as if there will be only about half the
normal yield. About 5,000 acres of onions are grown on the Cambridgeshire black
land but they have suffered from extremes of temperature. Summer rainfall has been
less than half the average. The boom crop of the fens has played a vital part in
boosting home-grown onions from 10% to 42% of total consumption. Prices are now
about the £200-a-ton mark but the cost of growing the crop is narrowing the gap

1951

Cambridgeshire education committee decided by a single vote that schoolchildren

might once again be released for agricultural work this year. Mr A.R. Greenslade, a
farmer, said agriculture had had the help of schoolchildren for centuries. They
were already taken to do carpentry, metalwork and gardening. Mrs Rackham said they
had been stopped from working in the Isle of Ely and Huntingdonshire. Dr R.F.
Rattray thought it very desirable for children to help on the land. They should
have experience of doing real work in the interest of the country & great
educational advantage would be accrued. Others said there was no evidence that
their services were required. “They will all apply to work in the fields and it is
going to throw our schools into a state of upheaval”, said Mr S.A. Martin.

1926
A Dry Drayton lad named Arthur Goodfield was playing with a ball on his way to
school when it rolled into a hedge. On going to find it he found two coins lying in
the soil and his teacher told him they were 5s. pieces. When school was done he
returned to the spot and further search revealed sovereigns and half-sovereigns. A
thorough search was later made by all the boys of the school and nearly £20 were
recovered. The latest date on the coins is 1893 and they may be the proceeds of a
burglary committed nearly 30 years ago.

1901

The other day on a road outside Cambridge I met the Vice Chancellor of the
University. Mr Chawner was not walking – he was not driving – he was riding a
bicycle. I was not surprised. Were the Chancellor himself to take to bicycle
riding, or the Bishop of Ely, there would be no comment to be made, except, perhaps
on their style of riding. I would remark that on a bicycle the Vice-Chancellor
carries himself with the grace and dignity becoming his office.

Wednesday 27th June

1976

Long visiting hours at New Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, can be more of an

ordeal than a pleasure for relatives as well as patients. The visiting times are
from 2.30 to 8 pm but the hospital finds the long hours can be a stress for both
relative and patient, both anxious not to offend the other, but both finding the
long periods wearing. Hospital authorities feel that 2.30 to 5 and 7 to 8 pm would
be long enough for bedside “confrontations” – but that times should remain flexible
for people travelling long distances.

1951

Two railwaymen whose prompt action averted serious damage being caused to a goods
train were commended for their action. Driver C.V. Bloy and Fireman L.R. Gardiner
of Cambridge each received a cheque for two guineas. The incident took place at
Elsenham when Driver Bloy noticed that one of the wagons of his train was on fire.
He immediately stopped and isolated it from the rest of the train. They stopped
another train and asked the driver to use his slacker pipe to damp the fire on the
wagon. In view of their action more serious damage was averted, bearing in mind
that a number of petrol wagons were included in the train.

1926

The science of air manoeuvring was demonstrated at Duxford Aerodrome when a

rehearsal for a part of the Hendon Air Pageant was carried out by R.A.F squadrons
based at Duxford, Northolt and other aerodromes. Fifty-six planes, six squadrons
and nine machines took the air at a given signal. The display was witnessed by a
number of civilians who were smothered in clouds of dust when the formation was
about to take to the air and on landing.
1901

The success of the Ely branch of the Railway Mission must give the promoters the
greatest satisfaction. Time was when the meetings were held in the waiting-room at
Ely station, afterwards the gatherings took place in a small building in Barton
Square, till it was found desirably to remove to the Liberal Hall pending the
erection of a new mission in Silver Street. Gypsy Smith led the way at the laying
of the foundation stone, accompanying on the violin the singing of the hymn
“Onward, Christian Soldiers”.

Thursday 28th June

1976

Extreme heat has begun to take its toll of animals and people, with little sign of
letting up. For the past three days temperature has been in the 90s and this
afternoon was a scorching 98 degrees Fahrenheit. At Cambridge abattoir in Coldham’s
Lane one animal died on the premises and three others have been dead on arrival
because of the intense heat which induces heart attacks. At Haverhill Furniture
Ltd, Rookwood, the management has been giving free drinks from an automatic machine
while half of the fixed skylights at Taylor’s Foundry have been removed to
encourage a breeze.

1951
A squadron commander at RAF Waterbeach was killed when his Meteor jet aircraft got
into a roll at between 60 and 70 feet and dived into the ground. It was 2-300 yards
from the end of the runway and completely disintegrated, having exploded after the
crash. The coroner remarked the accident was the unfortunate result of one of the
risks which airmen took in the course of their duty.

1926

Councillor Briggs said he was very pleased the Committee were raising the wages of
men working at the Cambridge Sewage Farm by about one farthing an hour. He
remembered when there was skating on the farm the chairman said it was dangerous,
because there were germs about. (Laughter). These men were there daily and were
engaged in a dangerous occupation, and a very unpleasant one. The men got 38s.
(£1.90) a week, and extra for sludge work. They had the best of conditions.
(Laughter). They had a shed which they ran into when there was a shower. What
better conditions could they have? The rate for farm labourers was 30s a week
(£1.50)

1901

Cambridge people are fond of Hunstanton; the climate is bracing and the air of
exceptional purity and dryness, invigorating and health-giving. The resort is
little short of a paradise for children. As Hunstanton develops, hotel
accommodation must be in great demand and the Glebe Hotel has been erected. It is
furnished after Oriental fashion with divans and chairs, studded with palms and
ferns and a drawing room containing a Ronish piano. This promising enterprise has
been started by Mr C. Ernest Gray, manager of Trinity Hall kitchen and the cuisine
is excellent.
Friday 29th June

1976

Railway workers spent almost seven hours repairing a section of the main King’s
Cross to Cambridge line at Shepreth which became distorted because of the heatwave.
As temperatures hit 94 degrees in the centre of Cambridge one sour note came from
King’s College chapel where the organ was out of tune because of the weather.

1951

The new Civic mobile canteen was officially opened by Ald W.J. Briggs, chairman of
the Cambridge Communal Feeding Committee. The brand new, beautifully equipped
caravan will be a great asset to the city as a whole, and even more so to the
people who use the Drummer Street bus station. It replaces the old stall which used
to be there. The whole thing is in charge of the City Catering Officer, Mrs C.
Howson. It is expected to be open from 8.30am to 10pm on week-days and from 2pm to
9pm on Sundays.

1926

The Coroner held an inquest into a lady who died at Newmarket from burns suffered
in her bedroom. She had petrol in bottles that she used to clean her hair. She was
very proud of her hair and had a little spirit lamp and curling tongs. She had a
“toupee” of her own hair, which she was always cleaning. The toupee was now
missing. The chauffeur said he had given her two pint bottles of petrol; she did
not say what she wanted them for. Dr Gray said there was a very deep burn on the
left side of the head. He thought she was caught in a petrol explosion and
collapsed.

1901

Histon’s three-day feast opened in damp and unsettled weather. On feast Sunday
there was the usual crowd of people parading the streets but it was not until the
Monday that the feast proper began in real earnest. Hundreds braved the weather and
took part in all the “fun of the fair”. Young men and maidens, old men and their
wives, rode on Messrs Thurston’s every popular “steam” ostriches to the
accompaniment of a full-throated steam organ playing all the latest popular airs.
They hurled wooden balls at coconuts and entered into the light-hearted amusement
until quite a late hour of the night.

To add to looking back in one sequence

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 2nd July

1976
Gentlemen visiting the Old Fire Engine House Restaurant at Ely may find it a little
difficult to keep their minds on the menu. For the waitresses include three beauty
queens, Debbie Rumbelow, who is Miss Ely; Julie Roberts, otherwise known as Miss
Welney; and Linda Jakes who recently became Miss Coveney. “We don’t choose our
waitresses just for their looks; we chose them for their aptitude for the work.
Appearances are secondary” explained their employer Mrs Ann Wheatley.

1951
The announcement of the closing down of Messrs George Stace Ltd’s Petty Cury store
marks the closing of yet one more old established firm that has filled a special
niche in the local fashion trade for many years. The name had come to stand for a
good, solid, middle class trade. It was not necessarily a smart one, but it met the
needs of a definite section of the community. It catered for the matron, and for
the essentially well-to-do family of both town and county.

1926

Midsummer Fair shows no sign of declining popularity. The increase in motor

travelling facilities has tended to swell the number of visitors. The crockery and
curtain stalls seemed more numerous and attracted large crowds nightly. One feature
which appears open to criticism is the increasing number of gambling devices. A
good deal of effort has been taken to put down such devices in public houses and
some of the things at the fair are at least as dangerous. They place temptation in
the way of young children who do not go to public houses and are not likely to meet
it in any other way.

1901

The excavation of the trenches in which the new sewers are to be laid along the
Exeter Road, Newmarket, have reached about half way up the steep part leading to
Exning Road. The men were working from eight to ten feet deep when without any
warning a large mass of earth from one of the sides broke away and buried some of
them. Enquires showed two men were missing, one being a labourer from Bottisham and
the other a stranger called “Darky”. Up to the time of writing one body has been
found, but the other had not been recovered.

Tuesday 3rd July

1976

Looking after an English country garden can be hard work, as Miss Gladys Prime well
knows – she’s been doing it for a good many of her 86 years. Gladys and her sister
Edith were amongst the Barrington residents who opened their gardens as part of the
village festival. Their garden contains a monument dating from the turn of the
century which incorporates the first concrete produced by Barrington’s original
cement works. The sisters uphold another tradition – keeping geese. “The village
used to be famous for its geese. They used to be kept on the village green”, said
Gladys.

1951

The finest “Royal” and the finest site – such is the general opinion about
Britain’s 1951 Festival of Agriculture which opened at Trumpington. Today’s blazing
sun was a pleasant contrast to the gales and torrential rains which marked
Cambridge’s last Royal in 1922. From early in the morning cars streamed towards the
showground. As traffic pressure increased the effect made itself felt even on the
outskirts of town where there were occasionally short hold-ups. But movement into
the car parks flowed smoothly and to get from the C.D.N. offices in St Andrew’s
Street took only 15 minutes

1926

The King paid a special visit to Papworth Colony & proceeded on a lengthy tour of
the industrial side of the colony, visiting the carpenter’s & trunk shop where he
was presented with a specially made pigskin trunk and purchased another. He then
proceeded to St Peter’s hostel, the sign writing, printing, upholstery and cabinet
shops and eventually inspected the huts in the south park.

1901

Sir – may I ask when the bus company intend to provide a large ‘bus for the
Huntingdon Road route in Cambridge? The small bus this hot weather is nearly
suffocating. We have increased fares with less comfort. A top bus would bring in
more revenue and residents could leave and return to their homes in comfort instead
of going through a sardine process. If the bus company cannot really afford to put
a large bus on the route perhaps some enterprising individual will run a motor car
to Huntingdon Road. I’m sure there would be a good return for the investment –
Resident

Wednesday 4th July

1976

Children and adults from the Cam Causeway area in Cambridge turned out in force to
help firemen fight a fire which threatened their homes. The fire raced across waste
ground and broke through the fence line at the bottom of their gardens before it
was controlled. It was the third fire on the land in a week. Cambridge Fire &
rescue Service, already stretched with other alarms could only send one engine, so
its first action was to put a call out for everyone to pitch in and help. First
into action were schoolboy neighbours Stephen Stokes and Robert Earl.

1951

A partly-open parachute was found in the wreckage of a training plane that crashed
in a field at Yelling, Hunts. It belonged to the pilot of one of two planes which
collided in mid air. The occupant of the other machine descended by parachute.
Arthur Larkin, agricultural labourer of Staploe, Beds., said: “I heard a noise in
the sky. I looked up and saw one plane diving to earth with a wing missing; the
other one was coming in my direction but turned and dived”. Parts of both machines
were strewn over a fairly large area and the engine of one of them was buried in
the ground.

1926

Lively scenes were witnessed when Cambridge was “invaded” by visitors from Soham
who came to protest against the sale of goods distrained by the Ouse Drainage Board
from Barcham Farm for the non-payment of rates. No one could mistake their
“leader”, Mr A.E. Elsden, who was attired in “cap and gown” and wore a large
buttonhole of sweet Williams, supplemented by a rhubarb leaf. Another wore a
slightly battered “topper” and enthusiastic supporters had rattles, concertinas and
“screechers”. A blind man in charge of a street organ had been hired and did his
work thoroughly.

1901
Cambridge Guardians agreed that a child who had expressed a wish to learn the trade
of a carpenter should be boarded out for a year. If he was given a good trade there
was very small likelihood he would come to the House again; if they made him an
agricultural labourer he would probably be on the books again in later life. Mr
Cook opposed, remarking it was likely to be an incentive to unscrupulous parents to
purposely desert their children. Some Guardians seemed to think that because a boy
was born in the gutter he should be kept there. (Uproar)

Thursday 5th July

1976

A meeting of over 100 parents at Hemingford Grey threatened to bring St Ives

traffic to a standstill if the County Council does not reverse its plan to end free
buses for village children at St Ivo school. A manager said: “If we lose, not one
vehicle will cross St Ives bridge on the first day of next term. It would only take
one person to stop traffic crossing the narrow bridge. There was derisory laughter
when an Education officer rejected suggestions that the St Ives bridge was
dangerous to children crossing on bicycles. The effect of 200 children crossing the
bridge was not yet known.

1951

The Queen visited the Royal Show; her route took her through Grantchester where
villagers welcomed the Royal car with a number of Union Jacks which hung from
houses and hedgerows, and even the petrol pumps of a garage. Princess Margaret
travelled as far as Baldock where she turned back because she had developed a bad
headache. The town clerk’s daughter, Rosalind Swift, who was to have presented
Princess Margaret with a bouquet, handed it to the Queen who said she would see
that it reached the princess. Obtaining one of the best views was a small patient
from Addenbrooke's Hospital, Terence Harley who has unfortunately lost his hearing
and the Queen’s words to him were written down by his nurse.

1926

An inquest was held on the body of a man killed by a tube train at the Bank Station
on Saturday morning. He was to have been married at St Barnabas church, Cambridge,
on Sunday morning. The bride and her friends arrived at the church but found no
bridegroom awaiting them, and after lingering some time had to return home. It was
some time later they learned through a paragraph in a Sunday newspaper that he had
been killed on the underground

1901

Rev Latimer Neville, the esteemed Master of Magdalene College, celebrated his
jubilee as rector of Heydon. The day was marked by a half-holiday for the children
of the day schools and the working classes of both Heydon and Lt Chishill and right
pleased must the rector have been to welcome not only Church people but
Nonconformists to the Rectory grounds. At a service in the afternoon the interior
of the sacred edifice was filled to the utmost capacity after which the
parishioners, headed by the Saffron Walden Brass Band marched to the Rectory where
there was a presentation.

Friday 6th July

1976

The rebel Roman Catholic priest from Downham Market, Fr Oswald Baker has been
celebrating the banned Tridentine Mass in a converted outhouse in Cambridge. The
Roman Catholic Bishop of East Anglia warned that such services were not authorised
by the church, but Father Baker said that far from stopping he planned to increase
the number of places where he celebrates the rite. He was sacked from his parish
after he refused to accept the new version of the Mass which replaced the 400-year-
old Tridentine rite a few years ago. Cambridge was one of the first places he had
celebrated the old rite and he comes to the city about once a month.

1951

The Royal Show at Trumpington came to an end with the total paid attendance of
131,333. The business done by stand holders has been most encouraging, one
exhibitor said that on the first day he had taken orders to the value of £100,000.
Even before the showground had closed work had begun on dismantling some of the
stands. The steady flow of private cars from the car parks was interspersed with
cattle lorries, horse boxes and commercial vehicles – a sign of the end of the
year’s work which goes into a Royal Show.

1926

Last Sunday was observed as Feast Sunday at Stuntney when £14 10s.3d. and 457 eggs
were collected for Addenbrooke's Hospital by the villagers. This is an extremely
creditable effort in view of the small population. This year a horse-drawn wagon
was decorated with evergreens and flowers by members of the Mothers’ Union. The
vehicle, which was lent by Mr Ambrose and driven by Walter Fretwell , represented a
hospital ward. A procession headed by the church choir marched through the village
singing hymns

1901

Recent rains have improved the fishing waters and with the reed cutting going on
apace in the open waters anglers are having a better time all round. Serious
complaints have been made as to the number of dead fish between Cambridge and
Bottisham. That there is some poisonous matter in the river there can be no doubt.
The popular opinion is that the overflow from the sewage pumping station has
something to do with the slaughter of the finny tribe

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 9th July

1976

Planeloads of Scandinavia shoppers will arrive in Cambridge in the coming winter if

plans being discussed by the East Anglian Tourist Board are approved. The aim is to
create an East Anglian shopping rival to London; Cambridge with its added tourist
attractions will prove better than smaller schemes now being run for overseas
shoppers in Norwich. The first shoppers’ “special” is expected to arrive next
winter and if plans are completed between British and Scandinavian operators the
plane will turn round immediately to take Cambridge people for low-cost weekend
trips to the Scandinavian countries. Discussions have centred on charter aircraft
seating an average of 60 people.

1951
Alderman Mrs C.D. Rackham opened the first instalment of the new Glebe school,
Girton. When complete it will take 300 children from five to 11, as well as a group
of “under fives”. “We aim to have a nursery class in all our new junior schools
where mothers will be able to leave their younger children until they reach the age
of five”, she said; “we believe this facility an essential feature of our new
schools”

1926

An application was made for the closing of a footpath known as the Top Footpath at
Cherry Hinton. There was no opposition. Mr E.G. Pamplin, the owner of the premises
through which the footpath runs, had agreed to put in suitable repair an
alternative route which had been almost impassable in winter and in wet weather. He
would also pay over to the Parish Council the sum of £100 to be applied as they
chose. When the back lane was put in repair it would be over 50 yards shorter than
the present route which was really dangerous for children from cyclists.

1901

A disgraceful act marked the battalion drill of the Cambridge Volunteers. As they
proceeding up Silver Street water was thrown from a window of Queens’ college and
men were drenched. They immediately called the attention of Quatermaster-Sergt
Rumbolt to the fact and he was the target for a second charge of water. The
battalion was called to a halt. After waiting several minutes the men were told the
matter was left in the hands of the Dean of the college

Tuesday 10th July

1976

The caretaker at Cambridge’s Perse Boys’ School for the past 21 years, Mr Ronald
McAndrew, retires this weekend. He and his wife Dorothy are bound to be missed –
not least because she has run the tuck shop for the last eight years. They will
both miss the school, having seen generations of boys – boarders and day pupils
come and go over the years; it has become a family affair – their daughter is a
laboratory assistant in the biology department. They came to the school while Mr
Stanley Stubbs was headmaster; the head is now Mr Anthony Melville.

1951

The Cambridge Master Bakers and Confectioners Association will make a delivery
charge of one farthing per half-quartern loaf to help offset increased costs.
Purchase tax has been added to the cost of retail delivery vehicles; the price of
petrol has gone up and there is shortly to be a further increase in wages. Despite
these increases the baker has not be granted any increased profits and feel they
are compelled to make the charge. No delivery charge is being made in respect of
the small loaf, since it is felt no extra burden should be placed on old-age
pensioner who only require a small loaf.

1926

It is not generally realised that human beings can get foot and mouth disease and
when the scourge attacks them it is far more serious than when it attacks humans.
This announcement was mad by the Minister of Agriculture in justifying the recent
“carcasses order”. “I do not imagine we have found the sole cause of the outbreak,
but we have probably found the most important cause. In the last month we have had
only six outbreaks; this is the lowest we have had since September”, he said.

1901

The regrettable incident of the Cambridge Volunteers being drenched with water has
caused a great deal of comment. The Dean of Queens’ college complains the incident
has been very much exaggerated, since it is impossible for four men to have been
drenched with the contents of one syphon of soda water, which was directed out of a
college window by two visitors. “If the townspeople can get hold of the two men, I
shall be as pleased as anybody to see them get a good squirting”, he said.

Wednesday 11th July

1976

About 100 Cub Scouts and Brownie Guides collapsed from heat exhaustion at an open
air service conducted by the Bishop of Ely at the Cub Scout jubilee camp at Braham
Farm, Lt Thetford. There were about 4,000 people at the service, including about
2,500 Cubs and Brownies. The service was cut short and ended after half-an-hour.
“The fact that this is the biggest-ever camp and that we expect almost 10,000
visitors just goes to show what a healthy state the movement is in this part of the
world”, said Assistant Commissioner, Mr Barry Howe.

1951

The Royal Show brought considerable activity at Marshall’s airport when an average
of a dozen or more charter planes landed daily. Most of them were Rapides. The
longest flight was from Prestwick, some 600 miles distant. The aviation side was
represented on the stand of Pest Control Ltd; one of their Hiller 360 helicopters,
fitted for spraying, rested on top of their stand. It was flown to the ground and
landed without difficulty on the small platform

1926

Ely Burial Board received a letter to say that the Privy Council had passed an
order closing Stuntney churchyard. Its care and maintenance transferred to the
Parochial Church Council who could recover the cost from the overseers. But they
thought that as the Burial Board was used to the work they would ask them to
undertake it. It could be done by those who did the work at the cemetery. This was
agreed. The renovation of the cemetery was being proceeded with satisfactorily.

1901

About 100 employees of Messrs Rattee and Kett spent a most enjoyable day at the
Crystal Palace, seeing the Naval and Military Exhibition being held there. The
great feature was the stupendous Military Band Concert. The employees of Messrs
Redding & Son spent an enjoyable day at Brighton; a saloon carriage was attached to
the Great Northern Railway train which left Cambridge at 4.45 am. Messrs Scales and
Robins employees enjoyed a combined sea and rail trip and journeyed from Lowestoft
to Yarmouth by steamer

Thursday 12th July

1976
Has there ever been a more disastrous year for the trees of Cambridgeshire than
1976? The mild winter allowed the elm bark beetles to live on and their work of
infection and destruction is plain to seen. In the high temperatures and drying
winds of the last few weeks giant elm trees have taken only a few days to turn from
green to brown. In January, gales felled many a fine tree which had taken a century
or more to mature. Now Wandlebury has closed because the great heat is causing
apparently healthy trees to shed branches without warning. What is more frightening
is that young trees planted to make good the loss are dying too.

1951

The staff of Messrs S.C. Marshall & Sons, the old established local printers, spent
an enjoyable evening at the Lion Hotel to mark 25 years of printing under the
present ownership. A presentation was made to Mr B.G.T. Cox for 37 years’ loyal
service. In a witty speech he recalled that in those days there was no electric
light or power, the premises were lit by gas and the machines – such as they were –
were driven by foot treadles and the posters were hand-rolled and printed on hand
presses. Since 1928 fully automatic machinery and plant have been installed.

1926

A visit to the Industrial Trades Exhibition of Household Requirements at Cambridge

Corn Exchange is well worth while. Housewives will be interested in a gassaver by
which three sets of pans can be heated on one jet. At the Nugget Boot Polish Co’s
stall “boots” will clean your shoes free of charge. Messrs Robert Sayle have
armchairs and some luxurious baby carriages while Messrs Miller & Sons are
displaying pianos and gramophones.

1901

The discovery of a complete outfit of women’s clothing in a hedge on a lonely road

at Meldreth remains enshrouded in mystery. A motor car, driven by a man who was
alone, was seen to stop near the spot where the clothes were found. The car is a
four-seater with a left-hand drive – a peculiarity of those of American
manufacture. A woman of about 50 and of stout build was seen to alight from a bus
at Orwell and noticed wandering aimlessly from one side of the road to the other.
There are several deep pits full of water not far from the spot; these are to be
dragged by the police.

Friday 13th July

1976
The bamboo brainchild of a group of Cambridge University student architects which
has been built over Grantchester primary school swimming pool could become a
permanent feature of the landscape, if planners agree. But the dome has already
run into trouble with some villagers who claim it is intrusive and damaging the
view from Grantchester Meadows. When it was originally put up earlier this year the
structure was only intended to be temporary but now the headmaster, Mr Kenneth
Jackson would like it to be retained. “It helps to keep the pool warm and keeps out
leaves and other dirt. It has many uses and we are pleased with it”, he said.

1951

A petition has been sent to the King by the Vicar of Over about the hardship caused
to owners of agricultural land at Over fen, held under requisition by the
Cambridgeshire Agricultural Executive Committee which was not being properly
cultivated. “My people have been deprived of their land for years on the grounds
that they were not making the best use of the land for agriculture”. They have been
brought before Agricultural Land Tribunals and won their cases and yet have no
redress.

1926

Sir – Words fail to describe the condition of the river during the past week or so.
As soon as the Long Vacation begins the edict goes forth – the weeds must be cut.
They rise idly to the surface and drift at the mercy of the wind and stream. They
collect along the banks, they form floating islands that attract all to the other
flotsam and jetsam of the river. The rower is helpless against them, his oar must
be laid aside. I vainly assayed to reach Baitsbite but had to tow my boat through a
clinging mass of ribbon weed, Canadian pond weed, flannel weed etc. For more than
three hours I carried on the unequal struggle but then walked home a sadder man –
M.A., Cantab.

1901

A rather peculiar accident occurred in Lynn Road, Ely. A load of hay, weighing
about a ton, was being carted to the Ely railway station by a young man, Sidney
Jugg. The girth band under the horse suddenly broke and the weight of the hay
immediately tipped the cart up and lifted the horse bodily into the air. Jugg was
thrown between the shafts but escaped with a bruised leg. Meanwhile the horse was
hanging in its perilous position, with its hind legs touching the ground but in its
struggle managed to break loose and free itself. There was a terrific crash when
the cart tipped up, large trusses of hay were strewn all over the road, and both
shafts supports were badly cracked.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 16th July

1976

Cambridgeshire planners are asking major international airlines to start a high-

speed airbus service linking Cambridge with Heathrow, Gatwick and Luton airports.
They also want the network to extend to the other provincial airports in East
Anglia. The journey between Cambridge and London airport frequently forced
businessmen to stop overnight and the Philips electrical organisation thinks it is
worth while running a trip for businessmen between its Dutch factory and Cambridge
every week. But a director of Premier Airlines of Cambridge said he did not think
there is a regular demand, at the price one would have to pay.

1951

Provisional figures for the 1951 census have come as something of a surprise as far
as Cambridge is concerned. For some time it has been hinted that the figures would
be in the neighbourhood of 90,000 but the census reveals it is much lower – 81,463.
So any hope that Cambridge might finally become a County Borough is emphatically
dashed to the ground because only towns with 100,000 are considered. What a relief
for the county!

1926

The citizens of Ely were all excitement when it was learned that a big bullock had
run amok. The animal was being driven near Forehill when owing to the intense heat
the animal began to act in a dangerous manner. The owner dropped to the ground,
letting the animal rush madly over him. In Lynn Road the bull put its head through
the window of the George and Dragon; it hesitated at the Electric Cinema where they
were showing the “Rodeo”. One gentleman who had hunted buffaloes in America took to
his heels. Various men were now after the animal which was finally landed into a
field in the Downham Road.

1901

St Ives council heard the condition of the water was unsatisfactory. There was a
sufficient supply in the pipes but it was thick and highly discoloured, so much so
that consumers preferred not to use it. The Company was under obligation to supply
pure, wholesome water, unless prevented by frost. They could proceed to arbitration
as to whether the quality was unsatisfactory, and these would be expensive
proceedings

Tuesday 17th July

1976

Giant oil slicks choked the River Cam following failures in the city’s drainage
system at the height of last night’s storm. Oil poured into the already heavily
polluted river as interceptor tanks were overwhelmed by the sudden surge of water
and workmen erected booms at points where drains entered the river. It appears the
oil could have come from the Garlic Row area and may have resulted from oil which
has collected in the drains during the spell of hot dry weather

1951

Not a single person from Landwade (population 20) came to object to the proposed
union of that parish with Fordham at the local inquiry. Apart from County Council
officers only one person attended – Mr B.C. Gardiner, clerk to Fordham parish
council – who said that his council were willing for Landwade to become part of
their parish. Landwade parish council has not met for some time although the law
prescribes that a parish meeting should be held at least twice a year.

1926

The Star Brewery applied for the renewal of the licence of the Crown beerhouse in
Wellington Street, Cambridge. There were seven fully-licensed houses and three
beerhouses within 260 yards. They had lost the licenses of the Woodman’s Arms &
Crown and Anchor in Newmarket Road in 1907 & 1910, the Oxford, Crispin Street in
1916 and the Priory Tap in 1911. The brewery had rebuilt and brought the Crown up
to date in 1914 but as the tenant’s family increased the trade was neglected: It
was not a good thing for a house of this kind when there was a lot of children
running about.

1901

An 78 year-old man was summonsed for assaulting Hephzibah D. He had taken her a
rose which she’d accepted & said: “If I give a woman a rose, I expect a kiss”. He
had said so to scores of women. (Laughter). She did not wish to kiss him, whereupon
he said: “I don’t want to kiss you; so it’s of no consequence”. He never laid a
hand on her; he did not see her frothing at the mouth. Did they believe with an
able-bodied young woman of under 30 years and a tottering old man that anything
took place. No jury in England would convict. However he was fined 10s.
Wednesday 18th July

1976

At Cambridge Museum of Technology there is no indication that the old Cheddar’s

Lane sewage station off Newmarket Road, is now a museum. The place looks a shambles
surrounded as it is by knee-high weeds and forbidding “Keep Out” signs. Go there;
don’t be put off by the haphazard arrangement of exhibits and ask the helpful
attendants when you fail to understand. A computer in a museum? An electron
microscope – both are on display in this potentially breathtaking exhibition. I
can’t help but suspect that when the lease runs out the museum is going to be
transformed into a profitable block of riverside flats. But I hope this does not
happen.

1951

A public meeting to inaugurate a Local History Council for Cambridgeshire was held
in the Cambridge Guildhall. “Very considerable” interest already existed in local
history. One of the main aims could be to share knowledge and there was the
possibility of having a printed journal for the exchange of news and views. The
question of guide books would need attention together with a list of persons
qualified to lecture on local history topics..

1926

Trade at the George the Fourth public house in East Road, a beer drinking, working-
class residential neighbourhood, had been carried on for years without complaint.
There were about 20 persons living there every night of whom 16 had been there from
one to 12 years; one old man, aged 83, had been living there for ten. Housing
conditions in Cambridge are very bad, there were 700 or 800 applications for houses
at the present time. It was difficult to see what was going to happen to these
people if the license was withdrawn and the pub closed down

1901

Great Yarmouth board of Guardians revived the question of paupers bodies being sent
to Cambridge Anatomical School for dissection. Every friendless person who died in
the workhouse should be asked before death if he had any objection to his body
being sent away for dissection. Mr Saul thought that was a gruesome and unseemly
idea. Dissection was perfectly legal and right; if they declined to allow unclaimed
bodies to be used surgeons would be compelled to make experiments on living people
or resort to paying for bodies stolen from newly-made graves. The practice will
continue

Thursday 19th July

1976

Sir – I would like to protest about the slur cast on the standard of cleanliness of
the people of Stretham. The residents are no more negligent of hygiene that those
of any other village. Meadowcroft is a new estate, very well kept by the owners.
Those nearest the refuse tip are most affected by the plague of flies; more than
200 are being killed in one day in one house by one resident. It has been noted
that when the tip has been sprayed the following day the number of flies has
decreased. – Michael Young
1951

“The problem of old age will get the county down unless we learn ways of doing it
economically as well as efficiently” said the speaker at Cambridgeshire Old
People’s Welfare Council. Her interest had started over half a century ago when she
was taken to the old workhouse in Mill Road and had been absolutely appalled at the
condition of the old ladies. Some of them looked after babies for twelve hours a
day with no reward except extra cups of tea. “They paid for the sin of being old in
those days”, she said.

1926

One of the greatest enterprises of the age in the fen district in draining 16,000
acres of land has been accomplished by the Burnt Fen Commissioners with the formal
opening of the new oil power plant at the Lark Pumping Station at Prickwillow. The
Blackstone engine connected to a Gwynne centrifugal pump will cost £400 a year to
run, a saving of £1,000 over the old steam plant

1901

What say the shareholders of the Cambridge Tramways Company to the advent of a new
service of motor buses working only from Market Hill to the Station – a penny
service running from 8.30am to 9.30 pm. I have been assured by one of the promoters
that the first of a batch of six new motor ‘buses intended to be used on the new
smooth road from the Post Office to the station will be tried in Cambridge within a
month. It is certain such rivalry would destroy the present useful and satisfactory
tram service – “A”

Friday 20th July

1976

School leavers, graduates and redundant workers have combined to swell the Mid-
Anglian unemployment figure to the highest level for five months, 5,285. At the
same time the number of jobs available has dropped. Cambridge Jobcentre placed a
record of 468 people in work in the past month – some 68 per cent of all the
notifications of job vacancies they had. Unemployment in Cambridge is now 56 per
cent higher than a year ago.

1951

“Utmost vigilance” on the part of the Cambridge Trades Council was needed to make
sure the city council does not “pull a fast one” in its proposals to reserve a
slice of Parker’s Piece for car parking facilities. “I think the City council have
put this back for six months and will bring it up again when they think it has all
died down”, said the chairman. “We don’t want to lose even a piece of one of the
city’s cherished beauty spots”. There was no need for a parking site in Regent
Terrace as the accommodation of other parking places was not being overtaxed

1926

A flannel dance is taking place at the Royal Air Force Station, Duxford in aid the
station memorial fund. Dancing will take place in one of the hangars and the
Station Jazz Band will provide the music. A handsome triptych has been erected in
the camp chapel and the chaplain hopes to add a brass inscription plate with the
names of those who have been killed on the station since the official declaration
of peace.

1901

Cricketers will learn with much regret at the death at his residence, Mill Road,
Cambridge, of the veteran cricketer and umpire, Bob Carpenter. He was 27 when he
played in his first match at Lord’s for the United England XI. A powerful hitter,
his favourite stroke was to square leg. Playing for Cambridgeshire against Surrey
in 1861 he made an innings of 100 described as “probably the greatest display of
batting the world has ever seen”. He played regularly for England in company with
two other Cambridgeshire cricketers ‘Pepper’ Tarrant and Tom Hayward.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 23rd July

1976

By 1981, the Cambridge Water Company is likely to be short of more than 1¼ [ONE-
AND-A-QUARTER] million gallons of water a day. But the demand could be met if the
Anglian Water Authority’s proposed ground water development scheme is allowed to go
ahead. Taking ground water from the chalk would help in two ways: the water could
be added directly to the public supply and as it would maintain river flows in dry
weather, more water can be taken from existing boreholes. By pumping water into
springs and rivers it would ensure that effluent from sewage works was adequately
diluted even in periods of drought.

1951

Methodism in Cambridge has suffered a severe loss with the passing of Mr Albert
Endersby in his 73rd year. He had been associated with the Sturton Street Methodist
Church since he was first taken there as a baby in arms and he never lost his
enthusiasm for the fervour of Methodist singing and the thrill of Christian
witness. He had been a steward for 50 years and was chairman of the Young Men’s
Club which met at the Tabernacle, Newmarket Road, before that church was closed. He
was a mattress maker at Messrs Eaden Lilley.

1926

The County Architect reported that a proper set for the foundation piles at
Dimock’s Cote Bridge on the Stretham to Wicken road was not obtainable at the depth
of 40 feet provided in the contract, but by continuous driving a set was obtained
at 65 feet. If the whole of the 38 piles had to be driven to this depth the
additional cost would be about £2,500. By driving the piles intermittently there
was every reason to believe a set could be obtained at a less depth with many of
the piles and the cost would be proportionately reduced.

1901

Mr Frederick Layton of Milwaukee, USA, a native of Lt Wilbraham who went to America

in 1842 had just presented his village with a handsome gift in the shape of three
cottages for aged poor persons which he has endowed with a sum of £2,000.They are
prettily situated at the west end of the village; each is comfortably furnished
with living room, two bedrooms, pantry and coalplace and has a nice garden of its
own. Mr Layton heard the house in which he was born was for sale and conceived the
happy idea of pulling down the old premises and endowing the present cottages to be
known as the “Mary Layton Cottages” in memory of his mother.
Tuesday 24th July

1976

Apathetic villagers in Burwell and Cheveley have caused East Cambridgeshire

District Council to hold a fourth round of parish council elections in an attempt
to fill two vacant seats. Both councils have had their membership increase because
of additional population. Three poll attempts have failed to stir villagers’
interest. The clerk of Cheveley council said people were apathetic – but they
moaned when things weren’t done. The chairman of Burwell council said: “I think it
is disgusting; I know people who are willing to stand but can’t be bothered to get
the forms – and you can’t nurse them”

1951

Entries for the men’s and boys’ swim through Cambridge broke all records. 104
swimmers came under starter’s order, 98 of whom completed the course. The Mayor saw
them off at the start from “The Mill” and then travelled to the finishing post at
Jesus Green where he presented prizes. Punts accompanied the swimmers in case of
distress. The Adie cup went to Alec Cook who completed the course in 18 minutes, 50
seconds. The Watling Cup (for boys under 16) was won by John Watling, son of the
donor but he was actually beaten by his younger brother David, who won the Webb Cup
for boys under 14. The youngest competitor was 10 years old Graham Norden who
finished in 41 minutes 55 seconds.

1926

The story of how a young Wicken labourer met his death through the sudden discharge
of a double-barrelled sporting gun whilst conversing with a civil engineer at the
new bridge being erected over the River Cam between Wicken and Stretham was told to
the Cambridge coroner. He had told his mother “I think I’ll go and have a shoot” on
the land of Mr A. Hall who had told him anytime he wanted a couple of rabbits he
could have them. The gun was an old type that he had bought off a pal. A surgeon
said it was a very difficult case to handle, miles from anywhere; only if medical
assistance had been at hand within a few seconds would the case not have been
beyond recovery. A verdict of accidental death was recorded

1901
Sir – Doubtless most readers are acquainted with the fact that two gallons of most
delicious, thirst-quenching, home-made lemonade can be made in a few minutes from a
4½d [FOUR-PENCE HALFPENNY] bottle of Eiffel Tower Lemonade, sold by most grocers.
Going into a shop I was persuaded to try another make, but to my great
disappointment found it was most inferior. This was most annoying, as I wanted it
for a party. I have ascertained that a larger profit can be made by the trader by
supplying an imitation and thought I ought to warn your readers not to be put off
with inferior makes when they ask for the genuine article – A Reader

Wednesday 25th July

1976

The design of the shopping centre at Bar Hill was criticised by a councillor who
says it looked like a dilapidated bingo hall. Councillor Ken Turner said: “I’m
worried that the shopping centre is not a going concern”. Shops seemed to change
hands very quickly and some were standing empty. Coun. John Impey said things might
improve when the new Tesco store opened as people were not attracted to a centre
with only small shops. A supermarket had served them badly by steadily cutting down
the range of goods it sold and by increasing prices. They should give the village
every possible support to see that there was a return to the high ideals with which
it was built.

1951

Members of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Voluntary Service deserve a rest, with

regular work teams doing jobs in hospitals, serving and driving meals on wheels,
collecting salvage, helping in Infant Welfare Centres and distributing welfare
foods in the villages. A lot of welfare work for the Forces is done, ranging from
canteens and clubs to sending magazines to Korea. Nor should the steady work to
help the old people and the pensioners in the county be forgotten. On all sides one
hears the same remark: “I am glad to be of use”

1921

Members of the 1st Battalion, Cambs. Regiment have been attending a voluntary camp
at Madingley, situated at View Park and surrounded by sturdy trees, the main belt
of which was responsible for saving the camp being blown down during a storm. One
evening the Commanding Officer was approached by a private who announced he had
been sent for the white-wash brush. He replied: “I supposed you want to paint the
Last Post”, then turned on his heels and sought the retirement of the officers’
mess to conceal his mirth.

1901

One of the saddest occurrences in Sutton for many years took place when an old
lady, generally believed to be 100 years on her last birthday, was burnt to death
before anyone could render assistance. Although relatives offered to stay with her
she declined with a confident remark that she was able to take care of herself. Her
daughter had said: “Mother dear, take care of yourself. Don’t topple the lamp
over”. She answered “My dear, you need not see any fear of that. I shall never do
that”. She had evidently knocked against the table which fell over, got saturated
with oil and burnt to death.

Thursday 26th July

1976

Construction work on the long-awaited nine-mile Cambridge northern by-pass has

started at last. The first shovelful of earth was dug at Madingley by the recently
retired Cambridgeshire County Surveyor, Mr Robert Lacey. The symbolic act ended
more than 10 years of controversy over the bypass which is aimed at taking away
massive juggernauts from the city’s winding narrow streets. It will take up to two
years to complete.

1951
Proposals for the future of the Cambridge Technical College and School of Arts were
discussed. One involved provision of 34,000 square feet on a new site at Long Road
for the School of Art, including printing and commerce department; the other was
for extra accommodation to be provided at Collier Road together with alterations to
the existing premises. This site would relieve the needs of the building,
engineering and science sections. It was central and near to the railway and bus
stations. The disadvantage was that it was small and would be expensive to expand.
The Collier Road scheme was approved.

1926

Cambridge Housing Committee received an offer from Messrs Underdown Ltd to erect a
pair of demonstration concrete houses on Council land, at a cost of £690, the
Council to take over the houses when completed if satisfied with them. If they are
not prepared to take them over Underdown are willing to purchase the land on which
the houses are erected at a price to be agreed.

1901

A fire occurred at St John’s college, Cambridge and considerable damage was done
before the outbreak was extinguished. The scene was the third court, where a
bedroom and a sitting room on the top floor of the wing overlooking the river were
completely burnt out. St John’s college fire brigade were soon combating the flames
which had secured a considerable hold upon the dry and inflammable material of the
building and it is undoubtedly due to their efforts that the fire was not much more
disastrous. It originated in the bedroom where a lighted candle was left on the
chest of drawers

Friday 27th July

1976

A Cambridge hot dog seller was in fighting spirits after the latest attempts to
have him moved from his regular “pitch” at Bradwell’s Court. Last week Ravenseft
Properties suspended four metal poles from the arcade roof at the St Andrew’s
Street end to keep the stall out – but he simply side-stepped the poles. Now they
have fixed more poles. In order to stay he would have to stand on the public right
of way through the court – and risk being summoned for obstruction. Managers of two
neighbouring cafes claim his stall is damaging their trade and he can undercut them
since he doesn’t pay rates, rent or wages. Yesterday he was determined to fight it
out “to the bitter end. If they want me moved they will have to carry me out”, he
said

1951

Purchase of the Cottenham police house in the High Street and adjoining land for
£1,350 was recommended; if a new house is erected in Telegraph Street the existing
police house may be sold. Messrs H. Edwards tendered £5,650, for the erection of
two houses at Newmarket Road, Wood Ditton in place of another which had been
previously approved. Tributes were paid for the courtesy and kindness of all ranks
of the police towards the travelling public attending the Royal Show.

1926

The County Wages Sub-Committee considered an application from a meeting of roadmen

for an increase of 5s. per week and for them to be paid weekly instead of
fortnightly. Coun Garratt spoke of the delay caused by sending out cheques once a
fortnight and said they did not get it until after Saturday dinner hour or on
Monday. A cheque was difficult for roadmen to cash, and the only way was by going
to a public house. That meant he had to have a drink. Other councils paid cash and
they could do so if a clerk was sent round to various points in the county. It was
resolved not to increase wages and that payment should continue as before.

1901

The villages of Linton and Balsham were en fete on the occasion of the homecoming
of the local members of the Suffolk Imperial Yeomanry. Crowds assembled at Linton
station some time before the train was due, awaiting the arrival of the battle-
stained warriors. The Sawston Brass Band (looking remarkably smart in their new
uniform) struck up as soon as the soldiers made their appearance. A procession of
carriages, horsemen and lady cyclists, their machines trimmed with flowers
accompanied the parade that conveyed the men to Balsham.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday July 30th

1976

It is not very often that one hears of a big building project being completed on
schedule but Cambridge builders John Brignell and Co are two months ahead on two
major council housing developments at Tanners Lane and Berrycroft Soham. At a time
when the building trade in general is going through a sticky patch, Brignells are
full of optimism. They have just been awarded two substantial contracts at Fen
Ditton, for 218 dwellings, and the King’s Hedges estate, Cambridge, for 167 houses,
maisonettes and bungalows.

1951

Two hundred London taxis took the road this morning under orders for the first
time, over a short wave radio network system pioneered by Pye Radio technicians
from Cambridge. In London, at a big party attended by top stage and screen stars to
celebrate the inauguration of this new radiocab service was Mr Harry Woolgar, a
director of Pye Telecommunications Ltd. He said: “This is the largest radio-
telephone system taxi network in Europe and we are planning a larger system capable
of directing 1,000 taxis”. Pye got the job because it pioneered fitting radio
telephones to police cars and ambulances and was the first to use short-wave radio
for agricultural use.

1926

Cambridge Workhouse committee considered the question of the laundry; while the
engineer had been in charge a saving had been made in the laundress’s salary, but
not on the coal. Mr Francis said there had been much talking about the subject;
everybody was interviewing everybody else. A great many misrepresentations had been
made and the whole matter was very unsatisfactory; they were putting the laundry
people in a most unfair position. It was the most serious case they had ever had to
settle.

1901

A large portion of the town end of Abbey Road, Cambridge suddenly collapsed. For
some time the Corporation have been at work making up the road. The steam roller
has been much utilised and this is conjectured to be the immediate cause of the
subsidence. About seven yards of road fell in; below a crust of about a foot’s
thickness there was a gaping aperture deep enough for an ordinary man to have
walked in. When the road was ‘up’ for the sewerage scheme an enormous quantity of
earth was removed and, it is alleged, the road was never properly filled in.
Tuesday 31st July

1976

The garage business of B.E. Cocks and Co. at Newmarket Road, Cambridge, has been
bought by Marshall of Cambridge, and is to become a Leyland car centre. The
purchase includes almost four acres of prime garage site next to the main A45 road,
modern showrooms and repair facilities and the goodwill of a business which has
been running in the city for almost half a century. This and the capturing of the
Daimler, Jaguar, Rover and Triumph franchises from Wallis and Sons means the
Marshall group is a real force against the big garage chains operating in the
region.

1951

Cambridge is a town that likes to be visited; “put out your flags” urges the mayor
to set the town in a blaze of colour for the Festival. In the past many of our
college buildings have been given a new beauty by the use of flood lighting and
this is being introduced again. Great St Mary’s church, the Senate House and Old
Schools, King’s College chapel, Clare college bridge and the University Library
will be lit. Most of the work is being carried out by a local firm of electricians,
A.W. Matthews of Mill Road.

1926

Loss of business through the reduction in agricultural wages, expenses through

illness of his first wife (who had died) and the high rate of interest to
moneylenders were given as causes contributing to the failure of the landlord of
the Golden Lion, Bourn. It was an agricultural district and wages were small while
the cost of living was as high as when the men were earning twice as much. He had
an unfortunate experience of being convicted for selling alcoholic liquor to a
guest during prohibited hours; the guest eventually committed suicide owing him £20

1901
Sir – when I gave information in regard to motor buses for Cambridge, I had no
conception of the vast interest it would arouse. Suppose that eight buses are
bought, two held in reserve in case of accidents, except on Saturdays when all
would be running. Four would be “touting” buses and two would be express which
would arrive at the station two minutes before the departure of the train. If each
bus secures three passengers each journey it would earn fifteen shillings daily. –
A

Wednesday 1st August

1976

The chances of “Lane landladies” becoming a parliamentary cause celebre have

disappeared now that the MP for Cambridge, Mr David Lane, has announced his
resignation. He had been campaigning against the levying of Capital Gains Tax on
those who let rooms to students because it was aggravating the city’s accommodation
problems. In spite of the energy he has spent in his years of campaigning for the
landladies the statute book remains unaltered

1951

Cambridge Festival began and as dusk fell to the strains of the madrigals sung
under King’s College bridge further beauty was added to the well-loved
entertainment given by this programme of “Singing by the River”. The West end of
the College chapel and the Gibbs Building, their outlines softened in the dimness
of approaching night, suddenly flowered under floodlight, their stones warm in the
glow but retaining still all its classical dignity of form. The reflections of the
chapel rippled in the still river, distracting attention from the madrigals sweetly
sung by the Cambridge University Madrigal Society. A BBC recording van on the bank
recorded the sounds of this splendid evening in a permanent form.

1926

A large building at Isleham, forty feet high, used as a stables and barn and
belonging to Mr Fred Robins, collapsed . Three horses which were inside were
killed, being entirely buried in the debris. Mr Victor Driver, who is in charge of
the horses, was just outside the door and so escaped by a few yards. Four other
horses had been taken out just before. The dead animals were dug out in the
evening.

1901

The usually quiet village of Hemingford Abbotts was the scene of a very sad
occurrence from the effects of a heavy thunderstorm. A farmer and his sons were
engaged on the land and determined to return home to dinner. The farmer and one son
took a shorter route across the fields, leaving a married son to bring two horses
round by the roadway. Nothing being heard the farmer found one of the horses on
it’s haunches and the other lying in the ditch. Near by was his son, also dead. It
was found the lightning had struck the man on the side of his head. The other horse
had to be destroyed.

Thursday 2nd August

1976

An experimental free bus service for the Fitzroy Street area of Cambridge commenced
at the weekend, providing the public with the first buses in the area for almost
three years. 67 people made use of the first bus run at 10am on Saturday. The owner
of the Talk of the Town shopping arcade, Mr Carl Owen, has hired one bus from the
Eastern Counties Bus Company at a cost of £30 per day. He said he will hire more
for a four-week period to prove the company were wrong to stop the service.

1951

Members of the armed forces, the church and hundreds of relatives, totalling more
than 1,000, gathered at the Cambridge city cemetery to do honour to the men and
women buried in the special Air Forces plot. A Stone of Remembrance was unveiled by
Marshall of the R.A.F., Lord Tedder and blessed by the Bishop of Ely. Training
aircraft flew over the cemetery in formation.

1926

James Diver told an inquest that they were cycling home together from Chivers’
factory. Two trains were about to pass the Impington level crossing; he waited by a
lamp post and the deceased went to the gates and stood there. Owing to the noise of
the trains neither heard the approach of a bolting horse; its knees hit deceased’s
bicycle and knocked him into the gate, which was broken in half.

1901
A series of tactical exercises were carried out by about 210 members of the Suffolk
Regiment. A Bury force was to occupy Newmarket; they were conveyed by train to
Kennet where they detrained and made their way in the direction of Waterhal. When
the Newmarket Brigade had almost reached the “Boy’s Grave” cyclist scouts reported
having seen the enemy approaching and orders given for the men to remain in perdu
in the brushwood. The sound of firing was soon heard but Newmarket easily held the
attack. Lessons learned in South Africa were developed and acted upon.

Friday 3rd August

1976

The Government has decided that the experimental traffic restriction system in the
centre of Cambridge can become permanent. Through traffic will be prevented from
going along Sidney Street and St Andrews Street between Emmanuel and Market Street
junctions, and along King’s Parade. The experiment was introduced 18 months ago –
against a background of support from amenity organisations and opposition from city
centre traders who carried their protests to a public inquiry.

1951

If objections by local villagers, farmers and the Ministry of Agriculture to the

establishment of a £11 million cement works at Meldreth are over-ruled the village
is destined to become one of the most important cement-producing centres in the
country. The proposed Portland Cement work will occupy a site of some 400 acres.
“This site is ideal; there is adequate labour, water, materials and electricity
available”, they say. “Everyone is aware of the rough nature of Meldreth, an area
noted for its flatness and it will cause very little local interference”. Asked
about the noise, smell and dust possibility they said it would be insufficient to
damage fruit trees in the area.

1926

The East Cambs Motor Cycle and Light Car Club organised a grand motor rodeo at
Fordham. They are fortunate in having people whose names are household words where
grass track racing is concerned. Mr H. Smith’s machine burst into flames, but a
Pyrene was brought into action in time to save it and the owner was able to resume
in later races. Events such as trick riding, ski-riding, chariot racing and plank
jumping were received with acclamation. At the conclusion a ladies’ race was
suggested and if they had not quite got the speed they had at least got the proper
racing attitude.

1901

A man named Lock, who was at work on the land at Eriswell, was struck by lightning;
his coat and waistcoat were much scorched, but, strange to say, the man was
uninjured other than from the shock. About the same time a tree was struck near
Wamil Hall, Mildenhall. At St Ives the rain poured down in torrents and the streets
in many instances were flooded, owing to the drains not being able to carry off the
extraordinary rush of water.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 6th August

1976

Cambridge’s first bus and bicycles lane comes into operation along Victoria Avenue
after the Government approved the city council’s experimental plan to put down a
special lane from the Four Lamps junction to Victoria Bridge. The plan also bans
all parking along the Midsummer Common side; this means the hundreds of motorists
who leave their cars there will have to find somewhere else. The aim is to speed up
the substantial number of buses using Victoria Avenue, particularly during the
evening peak period when traffic congestion
causes extensive delays.

1951

Sir – the Cambridge Backs are unfortunately no more – at all events in their full
glory of the giant and venerable trees. If King’s College chapel should disappear
from the scene untold photographic representations of it would remain, but of these
giant monuments of the past there is little. To fill the void I have reproduced in
picture postcard form a photograph of my own. There may be many persons who have
walked under the shadow of these great trees of the Backs and I could arrange for
it to be on sale. – Sir Henry McAnally

1926

The Ouse Drainage Board is to apply for a grant of £70,000 in aid of works in the
South Level district. Sir Frederick Hiam said that the money was only available for
four years & if they neglected to take advantage of it their rivers would not get
done. The greatest opposition was because the Littleport and Downham district would
not pay as much as the other areas. He was a landowner in that district and would
make up any difference rather than see the scheme fall to the ground.

1901

Suggestions that the model cottage is not so comfortable as the old-fashioned

thatched dwellings must not be accepted without some qualification. Surely nobody
will contend that the thatched cottage, with a low roof and a ladder for a
staircase, is more comfortable than the brick cottage. Very few have inspected the
model cottage on Mr Crisp’s estate at Girton or they would not have committed
themselves to such an unfortunate pronouncement. It is nothing short of a grave
scandal that such large centres as Cottenham, Swavesey and Soham are in danger in
the summer of suffering from a short water supply.

Tuesday 7th August

1976
The Rev Richard Smart is both incumbent at Dry Drayton parish church and, along
with the Rev Gladys Seymour, a Baptist Minister, deeply involved in the Bar Hill
Church Centre. This ecumenical experiment is supported by a number of
congregations, but does not mean it stages a series of incomprehensible, mixed up,
hotchpotch-like services of an experimental nature. The church is a large airy,
octagonal building and the altar table changes position according to taste and
need. It has aroused considerable interest and the future direction of the Church
may be determined by the sort of togetherness now thriving at Bar Hill.

1951
If a Ministry of Agriculture proposal to acquire compulsorily 308 acres of land at
Arrington goes ahead, 14 smallholders will lose their homes. The Minister alleges
that the soil, heavy boulder clay required heavy equipment land & cannot be
effectively farmed as it is. But the men of Arrington disagree and put their case
to a Land Tribunal. Between the two wars the land fell into a derelict condition;
it was bought by a speculator at £3 per acre and sold piecemeal to purchasers, some
of whom came from London. Dwellings – little more than shacks – had been erected

1926

Mr Blake, of the National Union of Printing and Paper Workers spoke of the
situation in Sawston. There were 35 members still out on strike but the firm
refused to meet representatives of the union or to reinstate them. An article in
the “Workers’ Weekly” had claimed the union had deserted the men but he had done
his best to brighten the lives of the Sawston workers. A person in the village
connected with another trade union was endeavouring to induce workers into their
ranks. These were “despicable tactics”.

1901

A novel game of quoits was played in the twilight at the Cavendish Quoit Club
heaquarters, the Rock Hotel, Cherry Hinton Road, Cambridge. Instead of the usual
feathers being used on the pins, lighted candles were substituted. Three games were
played, resulting in the candles being repeatedly put out, and in each game the
captain came off victorious.

Wednesday 8th August

1976

Mr Fred Unwin has paid £1,400 for the publication of his first book, Pimbo. While
it was being printed he approached the ‘News’ and because of the book’s mass of
colourful detail about Cambridge characters it was decided to publish five extracts
in advance of publication. When the extracts ended there was a lively market
awaiting the book’s publication but Cambridge bookshops said they were not
interested in selling the hardback book because of the price, £2.95

1951

With accommodation so hard to find in Cambridge the wise ones who present
themselves on the doorstep within half an hour of the advert appearing stand the
best chance of being lucky. An American army officer sent a corporal to inspect one
flat, following it up with a visit himself. He liked it and was all for clinching
the deal right away until the landlady pointed out that his wife might consider it
too small. He returned to his station and put a telephone call through to her in
New York. However the call – at £1 a minute – was largely wasted as she turned it
down.

1926

A Country Dance party on Christ’s Pieces, organised by the English Folk Dance
Society who are holding a Summer School in Cambridge, attracted a large audience.
The party comprised some 500 dancers from America and all parts of England whose
dances such as “Rufty Tufty”, “Newcastle” and “Sellenger’s Round” took one as far
back as 600 years. The natural and care-free movements were a pleasant relief from
the Bunny Hug, Cakewalk and Charleston.

1901

A Newmarket apprentice was summoned for leaving his employment. He complained he

had been given a fortnight’s weeding for talking during exercise time & been hit
with a whip. He was not allowed to ride out horses in the first string – he was not
nervous, although he had fallen two or three times and four horses had run away
from him. He had been drunk twice at work and stolen a postal order. If he were
allowed to break his indenture just as he liked there would be no managing the
stable lads in the town. The Bench had no hesitation in ordering him back to his
work, saying “You put your back into it and you’ll go on all right”

Thursday 9th August

1976

Cambridge Water Company has tentatively agreed to supply water in bulk to Anglian
Water Authority areas north of St Ives. The operation would centre on a borderline
area with Ramsey and Fenstanton on one side and Upwood and Hemingford Grey on the
other. At a drought emergency conference it was announced that rationing would
start in the Huntingdon and St Neots areas on October 11th, unless drastic action
is taken by the public to conserve supplies.

1951

A lorry driver was killed and an aeroplane crew of two seriously injured when a
plane crashed at Ely. The Harvard two-seater from RAF Feltwell, first struck the
top of a forge owned by Messrs Brand Brothers, then careered across the street,
ending up with the tail and part of the body in St Mary’s street, and the engine
and forepart of the aircraft in a showroom belonging to Messrs T.W. Nice, garage
proprietors. During its journey it hit a lorry owned by Darby’s Sand and Gravel;
its cab was hurtled into the showroom and the driver buried under the engine. One
wing of the plane came off and overturned a car, the other ploughed into the middle
of the road.

1926

The County Medical Officer reported that more than 400 schoolchildren are
systematically re-examined on accounts of varying degrees of malnutrition.
Treatment mainly comprised the provision of malt and cod liver oil, and in some of
the worst cases, maintenance for some months in an open-air school. With separation
allowances and the revival in trade after the war improvement was rapid and the
proportion of subnormal children dropped, but in the last three years the figure
had trebled to about 12 per cent.

1901

An exciting scene occurred in the High Street, Newmarket. Mrs Smith was driving a
lady friend and three children when the horses became frightened and bolted. She
twisted the reins and see-sawed them but the runaway continued its career. Hundreds
of people were in the main thoroughfare and a man got in front of the horse to try
to stop him but was not successful. Many called out “Let it run”, knowing the steep
ascent to the Heath would check the runaway; this proved to be the case and she was
able to pull it up. As it was led home Mrs Smith was cheered for her bravery
Friday 10th August

1976

A natural spring that has supplied a Whittlesford home for more than 50 years
without a break has dried up. Now the occupant of The Moors has to have water
brought to her home in a tank for the 40 dogs boarded at her kennels. At present
she baths at a friend’s home and has to use a 50-gallon tank to store the water.
Cambridge Water Authority say it would cost hundreds of pounds to have a standpipe
fitted because of the distance from the road. As she had never asked to go on the
mains before and had opted for a private supply she was “subject to the vagaries of
nature”

1951

A visitor to Cambridge by night may remark upon a transformation that savours of

the Arabian Nights. From St Catherine’s to the Pitt Club the City and University
buildings erupt in a galaxy of brightness by the artistry of the Festival
floodlights. The white facades of the Senate House and Old Schools glow like
dazzling phosphorus in the night. This luminosity is well contrasted by the darker
sections which are discreetly lit by green lamps.

1926

Blythwood Mansion, Stansted was completely gutted by a fire. Sleeping in the house
were Lord Blythe, his nephew and eight servants. All these were trapped in upper
rooms. Lord Blythe was rescued by his nephew who tied a rope around him and lowered
him to the ground from a window. The Butler, Mr Albert Hackwood instructed the
footman to telephone for the fire brigade and subsequently rescued the servants.
One girl fell as she had one foot on the ladder but he grabbed her legs. His
Lordship said: “If it had not been for him everyone would have been burned to
death. He discovered the fire, helped to rescue everybody in the house and acted
with the most cool courage anybody could possibly have displayed”

1901

Writing in the London Daily Express Mr Rider Haggard reported on conditions in Lt

Downham. Cottages were distinctly bad, many owned by small people who could not
afford to keep them up. Often they contained two rooms and no more, in consequence
of which overcrowding there was much immorality. The reason that the population
remained stationary there was that no new cottages were built in place of those
which decayed. Smallholders lived worse than the labourers; they rarely have any
other meat than pork, their dinner consists of suet pudding and bread.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 13th August

1976

The Anglian Water Authority has called for police protection for the men who may
have to tour parts of Cambridgeshire, cutting off householders’ water. “We would
not be so dramatic as to say we are expecting water riots, but we need to cover
every eventuality”, said a Deputy Manager. “Situations could arise where a lot of
excitement could be generated and the presence of the police may serve to keep the
situation calm”. The Chief Constable, Mr Frederick Drayton Porter said: “There
might be a bit of shouting and heckling but most people realise the crisis we face
and will react sensibly”

1951

Owners of six of the smallholdings at Arrington recommended for compulsory purchase

by the Ministry of Agriculture have won their appeals. Some 80 acres were in
dispute. About 275 acres in all will be acquired compulsorily; owners of the rest
of this land did not object to the recommendation. The land will be handed to the
Land Commission; the owner’s homes and gardens are not included.

1926

A woman was fined 5s for breaking bylaws under the Housing of the Working Classes
Act, 1885. She owned land at Clavering occupied by caravan dwellers. There was no
supply of drinking water and the sanitary arrangements consisted of four posts
driven into the ground and covered with sacking. There was a stream of running
water which was fit for washing and making tea, but unfit for drinking; if
necessary drinking water could be obtained from the village pump, half-a-mile away.

1901

A proposal to erect a new footbridge over the Cam between the De Freville Estate
and Cambridge was advanced at a meeting of occupiers. It would put them in more
direct communication with Fitzroy Street. A member of Chesterton Urban District
Council thought it should be erected at the Fort St George ferry to benefit the
owners of the new Central Estate; but this was a thing of the future. If they
waited for this development they might wait five or ten years. They wanted a bridge
for De Freville inhabitants immediately and would circulate residents for
donations.

Tuesday 14th August

1976

Householders in the Huntingdon and St Neots area will be two-time losers if water
rationing is forced on them during October. Not only will they suffer a lack of
water, but at the end of the emergency they will have to pay part of a £90,000
bill. This would be the cost to cut off 13,000 homes and introduce standpipes in
the area. It does not include any county council spending on police, fire and
social services.

1951

An uncomfortable half-hour vigil by a policewoman, who remained cooped up in a hen

house while she kept observation on a number of men on the Soham Recreation Ground,
had a sequel at Newmarket court. Three men were due to appear, but not one of them
turned up to answer a summons that they “unlawfully did play by way of gaming with
cards a game of chance called ‘brag’”. She said there was a pile of coppers on the
ground but they had been picked up before she could reach them. Defendants were
fined 10s each and the pack of cards confiscated.

1926

Sir – Folk medicine is bound to die out. The substitution of district nurses for
the village handywoman as the repositories of most medicinal secrets and customs is
tending to do away with the customs and traditions of the good old times. The
members of Women’s Institutes know a great deal about the subject and old family
recipe books will contain interesting matter. I am trying to collect everything I
can & shall be glad to hear from correspondents – Mark Taylor, Norwich.

1901

A meeting of professional and amateur photographers met to arrange the Cambridge

meeting of the Photographic Convention. The following were elected to the
Committee: Messrs W. Refern, Tyndall (Ely), Bolton (Ely), Wilson (Saffron Walden)
and Stearn Bros. Mr Sanderson (Palmer Clarke) was voted to the chair. Mr Sidney
Johnson, a University man, an amateur photographer and a contributor to the
photographic papers was nominated as secretary.

Wednesday 15th August

1976

Conservation areas on farms may be one of the causes of a rabbit population

explosion which is the worse for 20 years. In some areas it has brought numbers up
to pre-myxomatosis levels. In 1953 outbreaks of the disease killed 99 per cent of
the rabbits. They recover quickly after an outbreak; in a sparse population females
may produce 24 young in a year. One Essex farm has lost a third of their crops
because of their activities. Another problem is that we have lost 15 to 20 years of
experience in dealing with them because of the disease, said a Ministry spokesman.

1951

A magnificent new building nearing its completion on the Fenner’s site, Cambridge,
is to be home of an organisation that is the only one of its kind in the world. The
Department of Human Ecology was established some 18 months ago. Also to be housed
there is the University Health Service, which arranges the free X-raying of all
undergraduates under the University T.B. scheme. A spacious gymnasium will be used
equally for the rehabilitation of patients and athletes of the University.

1926

Herbert Diver, caretaker of Milton Hall, told the court he noticed the lead from
the roofs of the laundry and dairy was missing. The ridging had also been taken off
the coal shed and accumulator house. In the laundry he had missed the copper. The
prisoners said: “We did it sir. We had not much money to buy food with. It was
either that or starving”. They were sentenced to six months’ hard labour

1901

Last Monday was a day which the people of Over are not likely to forget; a public
tea to say farewell to Mr Handley upon his resigning the post of headmaster of
their National School after 24 years. The whole parish were disgusted at the
alleged cause of his resignation and the unfortunate position of the managers of
the National School, who were practically dummy managers. However much against
their will, they had the privilege of paying, but practically no power. Mr Wayman
spoke of the work done in religious subjects; it pained him to think of the un-
English treatment to which Mr Handley had been subjected.

Thursday 16th August

1976
The standard of tidiness maintained by farms, shops and businesses has helped to
win Little Downham the title of Cambridgeshire’s best-kept village. The judges
described the public playground as “an appetising kind of place”. The only remark
on the debit side was that some of the older houses could do with a facelift.
Leighton Bromswold won the Huntingdon district title; “the joiner’s shop was
commendably tidy but the farmstead at one end of the village left something to be
desired, even allowing for the pressure now on the farming community”, they
commented. Longstowe churchyard was well cared for but “the old school looked
needlessly forlorn and the notice board would benefit from a touch of paint”,
judges felt.

1951

For the past four years Ganger S.J. Ginn and his Warren Hill, Newmarket railway
gang have won first prize for the best length of railway line in the Cambridge
region. Mr Ginn, who started as a plate-layer 24 years ago, praised the first-class
quality of the men with whom he works. Neatness, level nature of the track and
straightness or evenness of the rails were amongst the points for which the judges
were looking. The almost total absence of weeds and the tidiness of huts also
impressed them.

1926

Earthquake shocks of unusual severity were felt on Sunday morning. In Cambridge

occupants were awakened by the rattle of windows, crockery and furniture. Two
residents in West Road were aroused from sleep by the oscillation of their beds; a
lofty wardrobe continued to shake and its contents to rattle for some time.
Railwaymen on night duty said the telegraph poles rattled and the windows of signal
cabins shook. Several residents of Huntingdon felt three tremors

1901

The Cambridge Starr-Bowkett Building Society is to be dissolved. They had £2,339

with which to pay £3,028. Members were told an endeavour was made to sue the old
directors but the costs would have been very heavy and they would have obtained
practically nothing. The meeting, we are informed, was “lively”.

Friday 17th August

1976

The retirement of a glass blower brings to an end 150 years of family service to
Cambridge University. Mr Cyril Smith joined the physical chemistry department in
1925 – following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. He was presented
with a cheque subscribed to by research students with whom he has worked since
1931. Many of them are now professors and several are Fellows of the Royal Society.
“When one looks back at those young budding scientists it gives me great pleasure
that my line of work has in some form shaped their future”, said Mr Smith

1951

For the fourth year in succession Long Stanton railway station has won the British
Railways special prize for the best station garden. Months of preparation were
carried out by two gardeners – the Station Master (Mr A.E. Clarke) and his porter,
old-age-pensioner Mr A. White. “We had to keep it up to scratch all the time
because we never knew when to expect the judges”, he said. Altogether 255 stations
entered for the competition.

1921

Saffron Walden Council debated whether 48 new houses should be erected, as they
only had twelve months to complete the whole scheme and obtain the subsidy. The
houses could be built for £420 each and would be let at 5s.3d. (26p) a week.
Knowing how badly houses were required it was proposed to erect 24 as a first
instalment in the Little Walden and Thaxted road, and consider building another 24
in six months time.

1901

H. Rider Haggard writes: Some of the old Cambridgeshire families such as Allix,
Pell, Jenyns & Frost still remain upon their ancestral acres, but the majority of
them have melted away. Round Newmarket their place has been filled by an influx of
millionaire owners from all parts of the globe who are interested in sport but take
no real interest in the land or its occupants. The county has but few resident
gentlemen, except the clergy. In the fens hardly anyone will live except those
concerned in the management of the land, since here are to be found neither sport,
scenery or society,

v
Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 20th April

1976

The great and famous avenue of Wimpole Hall is now one of England’s sadder sights.
Crows caw disconsolately in the leafless tops of trees devastated by disease and
over all is the horrid scream of power saws. Three hundred and twenty elms more
than 250 years old are being consigned to the sawmills and to smoke. But the elms,
even without the final blow of Dutch elm disease were near the end of their natural
span and, when the last has been grubbed out, new trees will be replanted. But not,
alas, the lovely but vulnerable elms.

1951

The Leys School’s survey of Horningsea gives a compete picture of the village.
Nearly every house has a radio set, there are 18 telephones and six television
sets. Dances are not heavily attended; communication with Cambridge is not good and
people do not risk the bus service to go to the pictures. As for occupation the
report shows that residents are mainly concerned with the production of food. They
are keen newspaper readers, especially on Sundays, but only 16 take the Cambridge
Daily News

1926
A Duxford aeroplane crashed on the Gog Magog golf course, killing the pilot. The
fatality occurred on the first tee, the machine first hitting the road and crashing
through the hedge; as it struck the ground it burst into flames and was soon
reduced to ruins. Bullets were flying around all over the place. Some time after
the accident the pilot’s tunic was found with a fountain pen and letter, both only
slightly damaged. His hat was found intact and inside this was his name. We
understand he had recently inherited a large sum of money
1901

Messrs Pink Brothers new ‘Knackery’ in Coldham’s Lane, Cambridge, stands in an

isolated spot and is constructed on the most hygienic principles. In one corner is
a large dissecting table and there are two huge coppers for boiling down the
carcasses, the remains of which are subsequently sent away by rail. Some distance
away is a tank ventilated with a shaft considerably higher than the top of the
passenger carriages that may pass on the railway. The possibility of any offensive
odour reaching travellers is thus quite obviated and the same care has been
exhibited in regard to any unpleasantness that may arise from the boiling
operations.

Tuesday 21st August

1976

The scheme to reverse the flow of the River Ouse from Ely to Huntingdon is likely
to upset boat owners and people living near the river; there could be noise from
pumps at locks, and smell in the tidal part of the river. The scheme, a bid to
offset the impact of the drought crisis, will mean closing seven locks to
navigation between Earith and Offord. If it goes according to plan about 30 million
gallons of water a day will be pumped into Graffham Water.

1951

Some of the world’s leading television scientists are in Cambridge for a Convention
at the Cavendish Laboratory. So far as can be seen, television receivers will never
again be so cheap as they are today. New valves, new circuits and new T.V. cameras
form part of the discussions; two papers have been written by members of local
firms. Messrs J.E. Cope, L.W. Germany & R. Theile of Pye-Cathodeon will speak on
the Image Iconoscope Type Television Camera Tube

1926

A thorny question which seemed to have everybody guessing was investigated at the
County Court, the matter at issue being an alleged encroachment near Stapleford
railway bridge. Plaintiff said he had purchased the old toll house, double tenement
and barns in 1925 and soon after a quickset hedge had been planted eighteen inches
from his property. The little bit of land was nearly valueless for the purpose of
agriculture but was not valueless to him. The judge said it was always desirable in
a dispute between neighbours to settle the case if possible; he thought the hedge
should be set back one foot.

1901

A man was engaged in carting wheat at Grantchester mill & without detaching the
horse from the cart took the animal to the river bank in order to allow it to
drink. This part of the river is habitually used for watering horses and in
consequence of the dangerous nature of the stream a chain was once extended across
the water. This chain is now broken and there was nothing to indicate the situation
of a deep hole in the riverbed, into which the horse stumbled. The heavy cart
overturned in the strong current from the mill and began to sink, taking the horse
with it. The driver was rescued but the horse drowned.
Wednesday 22nd August

1976

The landlord of a public house in Newmarket Road, Cambridge, issued a blunt warning
to customers: “Watch out, there’s football fans about”. This is an area which has
taken the brunt of local soccer hooliganism and violence. Walk along the Road on a
Saturday afternoon when United are at home and you will sense an underlying tension
as supporters trek to and from the Abbey Stadium. When the final whistle blows the
United supporters and the respectable part of the crowd are allowed to leave.
Nearly half an hour later the visitors are permitted to make their exit under
escort.

1951

Two Cambridge ex-undergraduates have hit on a novel line in Long Vacation jobs.
They have formed themselves into “University Tours” and take parties of visitors
sight-seeing around Cambridge three times a day. An average of about 100 people a
week pay 2s. (10p) a time to be shown around. About half are British, 20 per cent
American and ten per cent Australian; the rest are from other countries abroad,
mainly European

1926

A father’s objection to his child having to attend another village school to

receive elementary education was related to the court. Rampton school was now a
junior institution and children over 11 years of age had to go to Cottenham. An
offer of a bicycle had been made in order that the child should attend school, but
this was refused, as had an offer of 15s. (75p) per year in lieu of a bicycle. The
judge warned that the child might be sent to an industrial school and would have to
remain there until he was 16.

1901

Councillors considered establishing a municipal telephone system for Cambridge. All

the firemen could be wired and every office connected with the Corporation. The
first system had opened in Tunbridge Wells where the charge was £5.17.6 to cover an
unlimited number of calls. The best instruments were used and each subscriber had a
wire to himself, so that he did not hear any other people’s secrets and they did
not hear his. The existing company had dropped their charges from £10 to £4 to be
under the Corporation; if it went down to £4 in Cambridge the ratepayers would get
the benefit.

Thursday 23rd August

1976

200 men fought a blaze in forest and heath at Brandon which broke out when an
American air force F4D Phantom jet fighter bomber crashed on take off from RAF
Lakenheath. A family narrowly escaped injury after a piece of the aircraft came
through the rood of a nearby farmhouse. The bomber had recently been refuelled and
had 600 rounds of shells on board. Some of the ammunition went off in the blaze,
but no one was hurt. The main road was sealed off to all traffic as men struggled
to bring the fire under control. The pilot and weapons systems officer both ejected
to safety
1951

Mr James Briggs, aged 87 years, who has been working for 75 years on the late Lord
Ellesmere’s Stetchworth Park Estate, has been awarded the Royal Agricultural
Society’s medal for long service. He is also much respected as a local preacher,
and uses his bicycle to get about. Meeting this grand old man, one would think him
not a day older than 65 years.

1926

Dear Sir – Do you think you could use your influence to get August and September
kept free from holidaymakers and visitors to Cambridge. Landladies and most traders
could do with the rest & business premises require internal cleaning and lime-
washing which cannot be done while going full speed. The students hang on so long
now during vacations, and the position is not as it used to be – A Trader. No one
would be more pleased than journalists if conferences came a little less thickly,
but the presence of hundreds of delegates presumably means benefit to some people
and a big effort has been made in recent years to advertise Cambridge as a holiday
resort to help tradesmen in the “lean time”.

1901

In wet seasons fen crops are apt to go down and mildew, weeds are very prevalent
and difficult to eradicate, however often the land is hoed, and potatoes, which
have become such a favourite and paying crop, acquire a disagreeable taste unless
eaten early, and go black in the centre. However they are all sold in London where
so long as it gets a tuber that looks well the public does not in the least care
about its quality.

Friday 24th August

1976

A rescue operation has been mounted at the University Botanic Garden to save fish
from a lake which is drying up. The lake, one of the main scenic attractions,
started to fall about ten days ago and dozens of fish, mostly larger roach, dace
and chub, have been transferred to the nearby fountain pond. Now they are
threatened by swooping herons. The lake is normally fed by Hobson’s Conduit, but
all but one of the springs at Nine Wells has now dried up and even the one that is
active has been reduced to a trickle.

1951

Eight out of every ten seats available for the Cambridge Festival of Britain events
were taken on average throughout the three weeks – but the effect of bad weather on
the attendance at some of the events resulted in an overall financial loss. The
military band concert by the Royal Horse Guards had to be transferred from the
great lawn at King’s college to the Guildhall where only 800 of whose wishing to
attend could be accommodated. However the artistic success of the Festival is
beyond doubt.

1926

Sir – A steam driven lorry was proceeding along Histon Road, Cambridge, when
suddenly the covering over the goods was blazing on top, as a result of a hot
cinder being thrown up from the fire of the engine. This happened right outside one
of the long-since obsolete hand manual lock-up sub fire stations. It would be of
enormous advantage if they contained something more effective such as buckets of
sand, hand patent chemical appliances, a hatchet or two, a crowbar and a couple of
extending ladders and if the key might be procured from an obliging near-by
resident – A. Burlton

1901

We understand that the Poplar Hall Estate, Fen Ditton, has just been purchased by a
London financier and that a syndicate has been formed to float a public company to
undertake the manufacture of Portland cement upon an extensive scale. Exhaustive
experiments have been made and an eminent local authority has certified that,
without a single exception, they are of the most satisfactory character.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 27th August

1976

Nothing is more likely to inflame feelings now that we are being urged to wash our
smalls in the bath than the sign of a sprinkler spilling precious water over
Parker’s Piece, Cambridge, under the heat of the noonday sun. Because the issue has
aroused so much controversy City Council officials checked with Cambridge Water
Company & were told that “watering for survival” is permissible; the wickets on the
public cricket pitches are kept watered to prevent accidents. College gardens are
among the most famous tourist attractions and until a ban comes into operation most
colleges are watering those parts which they feel are most prized.

1951

Over 30 young Austrian and Germans smiled through tears as the train carried them
away from Cambridge. They had been living in English homes as the guests of the
Cambridge Co-operative Society, the Woodcraft Folk Group and many open-handed hosts
who responded to a letter published in the C.D.N. The Co-op Society entertained
over a hundred children at the Co-operative Hall. Recordings of the Tyrolean songs
and singing dances were made and a German-born waitress looked after them.

1926

As a result of a police raid at Coldham’s Common, Cambridge, nine men were summoned
for gambling with coins at a game known as “heading ‘em”. PC Northrop said he
watched them for a few minutes but could not say whether individuals had actually
spun any coins or laid any money down. The men dispersed but were caught by other
officers. The Mayor pointed out the seriousness of the offence; they were liable to
be punished as rogues and vagabonds and fined £25 or sent to prison for three
months. Two were fined £5 each

1901

Between Cambridge and Sandy, in the neighbourhood of the Old North Road, may be
seen a stretch of land of which the condition can only be described as truly awful.
The soil is for the most part a heavy clay, and much of it has gone down into an
apology for a pasture, often so thickly studded with wild thorns and briars that it
looks like a game covert which has recently been planted. Here is a crop of beans,
dwafted, yellow and devoured with black fly, followed by stretches of twitch and
briar and a scattered crop of wire-worm-ravaged oats.
Tuesday 28th August

1976

For more than 200 years anglers have been inspired by the legend of the big pike in
the artificial lake at Chippenham Park Estate. Occasional sightings of the elusive
fish have encouraged generations to pass the story on from father to son. But the
drought may have dealt a terminal blow to the tale. Over the past few months the
waters have shrunk as the lake’s three source springs have gradually dried up and
now only a sorry puddle remains of a lake once over half a mile long. This is the
first year it has ever looked like drying up and now all its fish will have to be
removed

1951

Addenbrooke's Hospital synchroton – one of only two in use in the country for the
treatment of cancer – was visited by members of the Cambridge Amateur Radio Club.
Mr D. Allen-Williams conducted the party round the synchroton houses and explained
the various pieces of apparatus which combine to generate nearly 30,000,000 volts
and produce rays of great penetrating power

1926

Chesterton Guardians’ Coal Emergency Officer said the emergency would be on for
another month and they should buy another 200 tons for the needs of the district.
The villages were still suffering from shortage and farmers had no coal to thrash
with. That morning he had three smallholders from Milton begging for coal. He had
managed, through the kindness of Mr Warren, to let them have three tons. In future
as soon as there was any indication of the likeliness of a strike they should take
precautions.

1901

The Star Brewery renewed its application for a proposed new hotel on the Hills
Road, adjacent to Cambridge Cattle Market. There were farmers, dealers in cattle
coming from Norwich and Essex who regularly attended the market, coming by train.
It was desirable that they should sleep on the spot and take care of the cattle. Mr
Grain said there was opposition from Homerton college, a ladies college. What on
earth they opposed for he did not know. None of those young ladies, he was sure,
would go near a public house.

Wednesday 29th August

1976

Plans for a nightclub in the former Rex Ballroom and Cinema at Magrath Avenue,
Cambridge, have been scrapped after residents succeeded in opposing both a drinks
licence and a music, singing and dancing licence for the club. Mr Gordon Cave
wanted to open ‘The Carioca Club’ on the premises but faced violent objections from
the police, the city council and residents who have for years protested about the
noise and nuisance caused. Their complaints intensified when the ballroom was
turned into a nightclub a few years ago and the cinema became a bingo hall.

1951
An American F.84 Thunderjet hurtled out of control between the houses on either
side of St John’s Street, Beck Row and finally crashed outside the police station,
killing the pilot. Several houses were damaged by pieces of wreckage but there were
no civilian casualties. The aircraft, carrying out a routine flight over Mildenhall
airfield, struck the runway with a wing when doing a banking turn. The pilot
attempted to regain control but the aircraft hit the wing of a bomber standing
near, ripping it off. It flew down the road with bits of wreckage falling off it.
Then the tailplane fell off and it crashed.

1926

The Post Office proposes to bring into operation a scheme for using obliterating
post-marks on letters for commercial advertising, but is meeting opposition. The
teetotaller may object to having his letters stamped with an invitation to drink
whisky. Many firms print advertising matter on their envelopes and wrappers and
this would be obscured by the official post mark advertisement. It would be worse
when circulars posted by one firm were delivered bearing an announcement that its
competitor’s goods were the best.

1901

John Durrant, a yeoman farmer living at Burwell told the court that his orchard
adjoined that of his neighbour. A plum tree grew on his ground but some of the
branches overhung the fence. He asked to gather the fruit by placing a ladder on
his neighbour’s side, but this was refused. When he had mounted the ladder on his
side the neighbour rushed at the separating hedge and threatened to knock his
brains out with a screwdriver. The magistrate said it was a pity neighbours could
not live in concord and sanity. As to who had the right to the plums it was not for
that court to decide.

Thursday 30th August

1976

“Out of Reach” parish magazine was launched at a reception. Its editor said that
although the village has a population of only 260 it would fulfil a real need for
the distribution of news. In the first issue news of the village hall committee’s
fund-raising bingo, fishing competition and the “Pork and Punch” tramps’ ball is
leavened with the fruit of some personal research which indicates there are many
more pigs than people in the village. It’s the same with hens, but budgerigars,
donkeys, ferrets and geese are in a distinct minority.

1951

Witnesses said that a Scimitar Wing Handley Page 88 experimental jet plane “bucked
like a horse” and exploded in mid-air before crashing at Stansted aerodrome. The
high-speed prototype research plane was only taken off the secret list this summer.
A main feature is the wing (swept back and then swept forward), the design of
which, with the speed and performance of the plane is still secret. A farmer said:
“The right wing appeared to come off and then the plane turned and the left wing
came off and the plane broke up”.

1926

Sir – Probably the hardest-worked and the poorest paid college servant is the
kitchen porter. In full term he puts in from 13 to 14 hours a day and at the end of
the week if he draws 25s. (£1.12) (his food included) he may consider himself lucky
– and perhaps the less said about the quality of some of the food the better. They
get few tips – an average of 4s. (20p) a term, and perhaps nothing, and in all
probability have to stand off during the Long Vacation. These men are honest and
trusted servants who should be paid a living wage – A British Worker

1901

Magistrates said they were not prepared to grant a licence to the new tenant of the
George and Dragon, Willingham. The house had changed hands twelve times in the last
eight years and they would like to know something more about it. There were 13
houses which had very frequent transfers. If brewers took a little more trouble in
putting in tenants who would be likely to stay it would be better for the public
and everyone concerned.

Friday 31st August

1976

Ickleton Parish Council is taking up villagers’ complaints that pigs and cows have
been straying through their streets, gardens and even houses. The pigs have been
walking through the streets holding up the traffic, pigs and calves have been
eating vegetables in gardens and one woman even had a pig in her dining room. One
mother says she saw a pig rooting around her two-month-old baby, asleep in his pram
in the garden. The man who owns the animals, a chartered accountant, said he had
not kept pigs before he moved to the village: “It would have been more sensible to
come and tell me personally. I’m usually here at the weekend”.

1951

Some fruit growers have been getting less for their plums than the fruit was
fetching 50 years ago. The processing varieties of Czars and purple Pershores have
at times fetched as little as three-farthings a lb, or £8 a ton. In 1901 prices
were £10. Shortage of sugar is a cause of the low price prices which will not pay
for the cost of picking. Victorias are quite satisfactory at about £35 a ton.
Greengages are a very light crop and fetch £60 a ton.

1926

A Haddenham man was summoned for driving a horse and trap without lights. Defendant
said he was going to Hill Row and had the usual off-side light on his cart. Between
the Chequers public house and the war memorial the rim of the wheel caught the
screw that turns up the wick, which evidently made the lamp go out. He was in the
act of lighting it when the constable came up. A fine of 7s 6d was imposed and
defendant asked for leave to appeal against the fine. The Clerk: “You talk too
much”.

1901

Any attempt to portray life and characters at the ‘Varsity, especially Cambridge,
without mentioning that wonderful, but indispensable, personage technically known
as the Bedmaker, would be the basest ingratitude on the part of the portrayer, says
Mr Frank Rutter in his article on “University Types”. What if she does clean your
teapot with paraffin, or entertain her friends to breakfast in your room? Such
little perquisites are well-earned by the “Bedder” who at her best is a motherly
creature and known to stick staunchly to her “young gentlemen” in the hour of need.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 2nd September

1976

Human glands are removed from bodies at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge and
sold to the Medical research Council without relatives’ permission being sought.
About 250 glands a year are sold for 20p each to the council’s laboratory at
Cambridge. The money is shared among the mortuary technicians who deliver the
glands. These are the pituitary glands which produce two hormones which cannot be
produced synthetically. They are removed by the pathologist and are used solely for
the benefit of those suffering from stunted growth or infertility. They are the
only ones disposed of in this way.

1951

Sir – the use of a neon sign as an advertisement in a shop window in Magdalene

Street, Cambridge has been forbidden, on the grounds that it would detract from the
appearance of the building and be an incongruous feature in a pleasant riverside
area. The building is itself rather a poor affair with plastered walls. If
Cambridge depends on such as an attraction to visitors it is surely in a poor way.
The paint on the railings of the bridge has faded to a poor green overlooking the
discoloured waters in the river itself. Odd cigarette signs in red and yellow and
in blue and white overhang the pavement. All might be regarded as incongruous and
will presumably receive attention from the Ministry which objects to small neon
signs – W.W. Davidson.

1926

The report on the Bishop Stortford railway accident during the General Strike says
that the country was on the whole admirably served by the volunteers who undertook
responsibilities of various kinds. In this case the district locomotive
superintendent at Cambridge was left with one driver and a clerk, out of a staff of
600 men. By degrees a little band of volunteers was got together, all of whom were
necessarily unfamiliar with much that they would encounter. The driver involved in
the accident was under test to be qualified and had worked trains satisfactorily
for some days. The actual circumstances which developed were of a type which would
not be expected, though the results were very regrettable.

1901

A large number of the Waterbeach Salvationists congregated at the funeral of Mrs

Thomas Shipp jun., of Rosemary Street, who was formerly an active ‘Lieutenant’ of
the Corps. Mr Ellis Merry and other strong Salvationists from Cambridge were in the
procession. The service was conducted by the esteemed ‘Captain’ Miss Westlake of
the Sturton Town Army Barracks; there were nearly 500 persons present.

Tuesday 3rd September

1976

A 45-acre site between Fen Drayton and Swavesey may be turned into a marina and
water sports centre when its working life as a gravel pit is exhausted in three
years time. The proposal is being put forward by the Amey Roadstone Corporation
which operates extensive sand and gravel extraction pits in and around St Ives. A
plan for a marina for 75 boats on part of the site is being considered with a
suggestion there should also be a water sports area which will cater for water
skiing, skin diving, water activities for children and picnicking. The workings
have been operated for more than 20 years and now the company have to produce plans
for reconstituting the site.

1951

“I’m going to have another half dozen birthdays at least”. This is the declared
intention of Mr Joseph Kester, Chesterton Hospital’s Grand Old Man, who today
celebrated his 104th birthday. At a party he cut his own birthday cake, drank a
glass of port and said: “It tastes good, but it’s not as good as beer”. Sitting
bolt upright in his chair and dressed in a navy suit and slippers, Joe gave the
impression of a film star holding court. He was surrounded by friends and submitted
happily to being photographed. Three bottles of port were included in his presents
and his son, bringing in a medicine bottle with brandy in it, was told with a
chuckle: “Slip it into my pocket boy”.

1926
The Coroner has heard from the Secretary of State about the disposal of coins found
under a hedge at Dry Drayton by children. It had been suggested it was property
stolen from the post office kept by a man named Frederick Walker in 1896 and been
buried by the person who had stolen it. Neither the Treasury nor the Postmaster
General proposes to claim the coins and agree they should be distributed among the
finders.

1901

At the Clare Brewster Sessions the chairman referred to complaints with regard to
noises in some of the public houses such as the sounding of tambourines, singing
and jumping and the use of rather foul language. This was a thing which must be
stopped as the public who were living in the vicinity could not be allowed to
suffer through this unseemly conduct. He also referred to the length of time horses
were allowed to stand outside public houses, blocking up the highway.

Wednesday 4th September

1976

Admiral of the Fleet, Earl Mountbatten of Burma, dropped in at the Burma Star Day
at Waterbeach Barracks. His aim was to see for himself how, in just five years, “a
bunch of amateurs” had managed to turn a small military tattoo into one of the
biggest displays of its kind in the country. Flying displays were put on by
numerous veteran and modern aircraft, ranging from the Spitfire to the USAF’S new
F5E Tiger II fighters, based at Alconbury. A record 50,000 people attended the show
and more than £6,000 profit was made for six charities catering for ex-servicemen

1951

For the first time college servants of Cambridge University have taken a Transport
and General Workers’ Union dispute to arbitration by the Industrial Disputes
Tribunal and a period has been fixed for the servants & Gonville and Caius college
to negotiate and come to terms. The servants want minimum wages of £5 8s.for men &
£4 1s. for women, payment for split duties and overtime, and protection of holidays
and working weeks. A Union official said: “We must not antagonise the colleges who
thought the servants were kidding. We can make friends with them or we can make
enemies of them for evermore”

1926
Sir – the average wages of porters in college kitchens before the war were about
ten or eleven shillings per week of 85 hours. At that time they got more money in
tips than now. I have known many kitchen hands whose pay per hour worked out at
three-farthings to a penny. Today they have a pension scheme (I believe at 65) but
few live to that age. Some of the humane employers now pay wages during Vacations
having come to the conclusion that an employee wanted something to eat, even when
resting in the purer air of Parker’s Piece – A.D. Somme

1901

Bottisham magistrates received an application for a licence to sell beer at

premises in Coldham’s Lane, Cherry Hinton. There were only two houses near, both
the property of the Saxon Portland Cement Company who say it would be a great
temptation to the men to obtain drink and neglect their work. The cement factory
now employs about 50 men. It would be impossible for the police to have proper
supervision; it would lead to Sunday drinking and become a scandal to the
neighbourhood.

Thursday 5th September

1976

Ancient village pumps could creak back into action if the drought crisis deepens.
The idea has been put forward by Pampisford parish council which has decided to
call in experts to see if its own village pumps can be put into working order.
There are probably more than 100 pumps in the district, many sadly neglected and
dilapidated. Some date back around a hundred years and almost all are out of
working order after falling into disrepair with the introduction of piped water
supplies to the rural areas. Since local councils lost responsibility for water
supplies there has been a long-running dispute about their ownership though there
is usually a tremendous row if anybody wants to get rid of them.

1951

In common with other towns situated near American servicemen’s camps, Cambridge is
rapidly becoming one of the leading Black Market centres for disposal of duty-free
tobacco purchased at U.S. canteens by G.I.s and subsequently sold at a handsome
profit in small back-street shops and hotels, with no questions asked. This
trafficking is difficult to stop and is now a well-established through unofficial
“Big Business”. Despite checks by security officers at Lakenheath and Mildenhall
aerodromes car loads of cigarettes by the thousand are coming into the City.

1926

A retired Cambridge postman’s many years of labour in the postal service was
acknowledged when Mr Amos Edwards was presented with the Imperial Service Medal. He
entered the service 41 years ago as postman at Pampisford and was transferred to
Cambridge. For the last ten years he was a mail-messenger – he conveyed in horse-
drawn vehicles mails from the Post Office to the Railway Station and back – until
the motor vehicles were introduced. He then went back as a postman

1901
A fatality occurred to a man engaged with a traction engine drawing two loads of
stone in the direction of Hookhams, Radwinter. They were descending a hill near the
Plough Inn and the deceased was applying the brakes to the foremost waggon when one
of the wheels of the rear truck caught the heel of his boot, throwing him to the
ground and he was run over by the load of stones. The body was removed to the Red
Lion Inn to await the inquest

Friday 6th September

1976

East Cambridgeshire District Council received 353 inquiries from tourists last
month – more than 100 more than the same time last year. The council does not have
a special department to deal with tourists who visit the area and all inquiries are
handled by three girls in the secretary’s department, in addition to their normal
work. The Council’s Chief Executive, Mr Trevor Hardy, said he was worried by the
amount of inquiries they were having to deal with.

1951

Tenants of 34 huts on the Donkeys Common “Estate”, Cambridge, are feeling anxious
about their security of tenure. They regard a letter from the City Treasurer as a
veiled threat for them to leave their make-shift homes. Residents say they have no
bath facilities, water closets adjoin each other and are therefore not fully
private, there are no doors on the bedrooms and that they suffer from dampness,
mice, ants and ‘many other forms of insect life’. They add: “We intend to remain
here until equal or better accommodation is provided by the City Housing Committee”

1926

Capt Ronald Leavey, who was burnt to death when an aeroplane he was piloting
crashed and burst into flames near Leatherhead, is not unknown to Cambridge. Two
months ago he visited Cherry Hinton where he took many passengers up at different
times for pleasure flights, and also accomplished many noteworthy feats of daring
in the air. His untimely end will be regretted by all who met him.

1901

Cambridgeshire enjoys the reputation of being an agricultural and fruit-growing

county but now must be added the reputation of manufacturing centre. There are
several factories within a few miles of Cambridge and another on a large scale no
further away than Fen Ditton is promised. The Poplar Hall Estate has been purchased
where the beds of limestone and clay marl contain every natural ingredient for the
manufacture of the highest class Portland Cement. In addition blue gault or brick
earth underlies the estate and this should make the best white bricks. It has a
frontage of nearly half a mile to the Cam on which is already erected a wharf or
loading dock which would put the works in direct touch with the steamboat companies
running into Lynn docks

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 10th September

1976

Cambridgeshire planners are prepared to pay anyone who is interested in taking one
of the oldest windmills in England – the 17th century Post Mill at Great Gransden –
off their hands. But the new ‘owner’ will have to be prepared to spend up to
£26,000 on repairing and restoring it. The mill is one of the oldest known examples
of its kind – and because of the expense of putting it right, it is rapidly
becoming an embarrassment to the county council. Architectural and windmill
restoration experts have estimated that up to £7,000 needs to be spent on repairs
just to make the building safe. The mill was bought by the former Huntingdonshire
County Council almost 20 years ago. When Cambridgeshire County Council took over
three years ago the mill was closed on safety grounds.

1951

It is hoped that the new head post office at Newmarket will be open in good time
for Christmas. It will be one of the most up-to-date in the country. The immense
size of the new building is the main impression from inside. The new Post Office
covers three floors – basement – where there is a large cycle store, ground and
first floor. The new telegraph room will bring all the latest equipment into use.
It will undoubtedly be a very fine addition to the architecture of Newmarket

1926

A white-hot meteor of gigantic size rushing towards the earth from out of space at
a speed of 40 miles a second, is believed by scientists to have caused the vivid
flash which illuminated the country from London as far north as Yorkshire and the
loud bang which followed it. It is thought probably that the meteor exploded at an
altitude of about 40 miles above the earth and showed the Midlands with a spray of
molten metal. At Hull and other towns the streets were lit up by a green light for
five seconds and windows shaken by the explosion. Detailed observations are being
anxiously awaited so the exact point of at which the explosion occurred can be
calculated.

1901

The opening of any new burial ground in the parish of Melbourn should be prohibited
and burials discontinued forthwith and entirely in the parish churchyard of All
Saints’ Melbourn, for the protection of the public health, Melbourn Rural District
Council was told in a letter from the Local Government Board. It rested with the
Parish Council to take the necessary steps; a parish meeting had been held for the
purpose of closing the burial ground, but there were several persons who did not
know much about the matter.

Tuesday 11th September

1976

Most of the 38, century-old elm trees around Parker’s Piece, Cambridge are likely
to be chopped down within 10 years because of Dutch Elm disease. A number of the
elms along Gonville Place are known to be diseased and felling has already started.
Now tree experts fear that at least 80% [PER CENT] of the others are likely to be
affected. Replanting, using oriental planes, weeping silver limes and hybrid lime
would be an ideal opportunity to commemorate the Queen’s Silver Jubilee in 1977

1951

The name of Roy Fox will conjure up many nostalgic memories for the generation of
dancers who had their hey-day in the years before the war. It was way back in 1930
when he first left America for England and now he has returned to give a new
generation the pleasure of dancing to his distinctly individual style of playing.
At the Rex ballroom, Cambridge, there was a packed house to hear the melodies of
his Whispering Rhythm. Of the 13 members of the orchestra five are violinists –
unusual for a popular dance outfit these days – and has a more pleasing effect on
the ear that the rather ‘brassy’ arrangements which one normally hears with modern
dance bands.
1926

A vivid flash followed by a terrific explosion occurred last night and at about the
same time various people in Cambridge declare that they, too, saw a peculiar flare
in the sky. No noise was heard. A police constable described the flash as lasting
from five to six seconds and as making it appear as bright moonlight. Miss G.
Gould, who was in charge of the coffee stall on Market Hill, said the whole of the
sky in the south was lit up for about five seconds by a blue flame. A member of the
“Stop! Look! and Listen” company said she noticed a vivid flash from her dressing
room window.

1901

Sir – some days ago I discovered that a strong young woman was required to attend
to the laundry and do the scrubbing at a neighbouring workhouse. I became a
candidate and enclose a copy of my application, which received scant courtesy.
“Having passed a course at the Royal College of Music I could, when not employed in
laundry work, amuse the inmates on the piano, violin, banjo or tambourine. I am
adept at cycling and should be glad to teach the young or aged inmates to ride. I
could also give the Guardians a lesson on the art of riding. I am tall and fairly
good-looking and shall be glad to send my photograph if required” – Gladys Jones

Wednesday 12th September

1976

Shoppers in Saffron Walden market place were alarmed to see a figure sawing off the
top of the fountain. A closer look revealed the figure with the hacksaw to be the
Mayor, Coun. Stephen Neville, who had turned steeplejack to remove the fountain’s
iron and brass pinnacle. Coun Neville, proprietor of Eastern Boiler Works, is
asking fellow engineers to help him restore the ornamental metalwork free of charge
so that the full £7,000 allocated to the fountain’s facelift can be used to restore
the crumbling stonework. His own part in the exercise is to mould a new finial to
replace the one he sawed off yesterday.

1951

When the pioneer of the moving film first sprang his new invention upon the world,
Joseph Kester was a comparatively young man of 42. But Joe did not take any
particular notice of those new-fangled moving pictures them, and even as they were
developed through the next 62 years he never visited a cinema. As Joe reached his
104th birthday he saw his first film through the enterprise of the Central Cinema
who organised a show especially for him at the Chesterton Hospital. He seemed quite
enthusiastic about it, although because of his failing eyesight he could not quite
see everything on the screen. The first thing he wanted to know after seeing the
film was whether he had missed his tea.

1926

A professional photographer claims he was the author of one of the greatest hoaxes
ever perpetrated on scientists and astronomers in this country and that he alone
was responsible for the “meteoric” displays thought to have been seen all over
England. “The lights were caused by the ignition of bags of ordinary photographic
flashlight powder which I sent into the air attached to gas-filled balloons. Three
sets of balloons were sent up, one from Beaconsfield, one from Bradford and one
from Birmingham”, he said. The article in the Daily Express is illustrated by a
photograph of a real meteor in the act of exploding taken at the Solar Physics
Observatory at Cambridge.
1901

Sir – Could anyone inform me why the Corporation workmen have deserted the Abbey
Estate? Until 14 days ago they were at work making up the roads and laying new
paths, which the owners have to pay for. But for the last few days they have been
trying to kill time by first laying materials on the road, and then taking it up
again and setting it the other way. For a little diversion they put up a pole, and
shy at it. They also take double time for meals – “Saxon Road”

Thursday 13th September

1976

Families fled a sheet of flames which destroyed the heart of the tiny Bedfordshire
village of Westoning, near Amphill, after a huge petrol tanker overturned and
exploded. Some ran from a row of ten houses after being woken as their homes were
turned into an inferno which swept along both sides of the main street. The ordeal
started just after 7 am when the 5,000-gallon tanker went out of control on the wet
road, apparently after skidding. Firemen brought the blaze under control – but not
before it had spread through the 10 homes and also damaged the village post office,
store, bakery and pub.

1951

Valuable equipment worth £3,000 has been lost or stolen from Bourn Airfield, now
derelict except for the watchman employed by the Air Ministry contractors at
present working on the site, and a few homeless families squatting in disused huts.
The equipment for aerodrome petrol installations was housed in two Nissen huts. But
the huts had no doors on them. “We felt that with the watchman being on the site,
doors were unnecessary”, said the contractors. The equipment must have been removed
by lorry and might have been sold for scrap.

1926

An article on the London “Daily News” gives an impression of Great and Little
Wilbraham. After a thrilling account of the pursuit of poachers by the squire’s
foreman, the schoolmaster and ex-Police constable Walls, now a blacksmith, the
reporter tells of his experiences in the village bakery. The squire’s shepherd,
turned 70, can sing ‘something wunnerful’. “I can being singing at six in the
morning and finish at ten at night, and never sing the same song twice”, he said.
“They be old songs and some of ‘em ud take a time. ‘The Old Cow Shed’ takes 20
minutes”.

1901

Mr I. Cock told Chesterton Union they should make an attempt to get a trained
officer for the post of sanitary inspector. The Local Government Board had refused
to sanction the appointment of an inspector at £120 a year on the plea that the
salary was insufficient and they would be wasting their time to advertise for an
officer at £60 a year. In appointing an officer 15 years ago the idea was simply to
fill the office generally and not have it done well. The more they improved
sanitation the less illness they would have, and a smaller number of paupers.

Friday 14th September

1976
Although river flows have started to recover as a result of the weekend rainfall
the Anglian Water Authority is sticking to its stand-by programme of controls in
the Huntingdon and St Neots areas. But for the first time for many months it has
been possible to pump water from the River Ouse into Grafham reservoir, which is an
important source of water for the area. Director of Operations, Mr Geoffrey Bowyer
said: “We need another six inches of rain fairly shortly to bring us back to
anything like normal”. The drought minister, Mr Denis Howell is to visit the area
to inspect a focal point of the £200,000 reversal scheme at Earith.

1951

Mr Joseph Henry Priest of Waterbeach, who died suddenly aged 73, was well-known in
sporting circles. Fifty years ago he was an amateur champion cyclist and for over
40 years he has been closely identified with the Cam Sailing Club. Setting up for
himself as a stationer and printseller in Bridge Street, Cambridge, he continued
until the First World War when he opened up the premises as a ladies’ outfitter in
conjunction with Mr C.N. Mitcham. Later he took the corner premises now occupied by
Messrs Peak in Fitzroy Street and carried on as ‘The Quality Shop’ and subsequently
joined the firm of C.N. Mitcham’s of Chesterton. In the heyday of amateur
theatricals he was a member of the Bijou Amateurs.

1921

Ely Councillors discussed government regulations requiring every cowkeeper or

purveyor of milk to be registered and all who keep cows must have cement floors. It
means that the cows kept on fen farms, to employ labour, would have to be sold. A
man would not be able to keep his own cow in his own yard or sell his own milk. It
appeared a lot of tomfoolery and was helping the foreigner instead of those at
home. It was agreed to protest against the order.

1901

A photographic exhibition was held, this is an entirely new feature to Cambridge

and the object is to encourage photography and more especially to bring out the
artistic instinct. There were a many good photographs. The judges, Messrs W.B.
Redfern and J. Palmer Clarke considered artistic as well as technical merit. The
challenge cup for the best photograph went to Mr J. Johnson for a seascape of
exceptional artistic merit. Mr F.J. Stoakley illustrated the Sanger Shepherd
process of colour photography and produced some magnificently coloured studies as
near to the colours of nature as possible.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 17th September

1976

Two Government departments are severely criticised in a report from the all-party
Science and Technology Select Committee of MPs, for errors of judgement which led
to the cancellation of the Tracked Hovercraft project and the closure of Britain’s
only full-scale test track at Earith. Tracked Hovercraft Ltd was established by a
Labour Government in 1967 to research the application of air cushion suspension and
linear induction propulsion to high-speed ground transport systems. In 1973 it was
wound up by the Conservatives after more than £5 million had been spent on the
project.
1951

Eighty-two acres of land bordering Thornton Road, at present comprising part of the
parish of Impington, may soon become annexed to Girton. During the war by a
“gentleman’s agreement” the land had been administered by Girton Parish Council in
connection with Civil Defence administration and organisation. Local residents had
frequently attended Girton Parish Council meetings but had been banned from voting.
The transfer of the land would change that. Impington Parish Council has no
objections.

1926

Considerable interest was taken in agricultural circles in a demonstration of

stubble cleaning on the University Farm, Huntingdon Road, Cambridge. It had the
dual object of acquainting farmers with the instruments available for such work and
of bringing instrument makers in touch with them so they may visualise what
improvements are required. Light land was used in the morning and heavy loam in the
afternoon and included both tractor and horse work by a variety of instruments,
though the exhibition was in the main concerned with tractors.

1901

When the sad and sudden news of the death of the American President, William
McKinley, reached Cambridge the inhabitants hastened to show their regret and
sympathy with the great sister nation across the sea. Flags at half-mast mournfully
floated from the summits of public buildings, churches, houses of business and a
few private residences, for the sorrow and sympathy were as universal as they were
keen. From the pulpits of the borough on Sunday the preachers made touching
references to the crime of the miscreant and those organisations for the
destruction of society which were undoubtedly behind the poor misguided creature.
After the assassin’s shot the President first murmured a message to his wife, and
then bade no one hurt the miserable wretch who had assailed him

Tuesday 18th September

1976

Two of the Tracked Hovercraft projects’ strongest advocates, the Huntingdon MP, Sir
David Renton, and Prof Eric Laithwaite, the brains behind the development, hailed
the Select Committee’s strictures as “vindication of the criticism we levelled at
the time”. Both agree the Hovertrain could have been a world-beater. “To call the
project’s cancellation an error of judgement is probably an understatement. It was
lamentable and the tragedy is it is probably too late to reactivate the project.
Most of the brilliant team of engineers and technicians have been scattered to the
winds”, Sir David said.

1951

Cambridgeshire Education Committee has decided to allow schoolchildren to help in

the corn harvest and the forthcoming potato harvest “as a last resort and where
acute local need justifies its use”. The are prepared to grant up to 10 half-days
to children of 14 years of age and over. It seems likely “acute local need” will
arise for the position of Cambridgeshire’s harvest is now becoming serious. Most of
the spring-grown barley and wheat is not yet fit for harvesting due to the six
week’s late drilling and the cold, wet weather of August. One disturbing feature is
the increasing signs of blight in the potato crop.
1926

St Ives Council River Committee reported that a cross head had given way at the
Staunch, wrecking one of the gates and causing a fall in the river; repairs had
been carried out. They communicated with Mr Simpson, the owner who replied: “There
seems to be some misunderstanding. Your council rent the staunch which comprises
the lock and pen. In times gone by the lock had only one pair of gates (the second
being put in when the navigation was restored about 1850). The barges came up the
river and made fast just above the pen and flood gates; the gates of the pen were
then shut and the flood gates lowered, and when sufficient water had come down the
boats proceeded to the next lock. Would the council care to buy the whole
structure? They would then not have to spend money on other people’s property”

1901

Idyllic pictures are drawn of child life in rural England but there was not much of
heaven about the infancy of the boy of seven who was run over and killed by a cart
at Graveley. This infant was employed on a farm. Has the exodus of farm labourers
been so pronounced that farmers must needs rifle the cradles in order to get their
work done? He was put in charge of a manure cart and if he “were man enough” might
lead the horse. No doubt it made the little fellow proud and he set about his task
bravely. He fell beneath the wheel and his head was cut open; the poor child’s
troubles were over.

Wednesday 19th September

1976

The Mayor of Saffron Walden criticised the town’s magistrates when they stopped him
playing a fairground organ because the noise was interrupting a case. Coun Stephen
Neville planned to play the organ in the Market Square as a prelude to his ball at
the town hall. He had set up two traction engines as well as the organ to entertain
homegoing schoolchildren. “We got at least 500 schoolchildren down here and then we
were stopped”, he said. “The magistrates could have held the case in the back
court”.

1951

There was general approval of a proposal to unite the parishes of Longstanton All
Saints’ and Longstanton St Michael at a public inquiry and the meeting also brought
forth a suggestion that the name of the village should be changed. It was suggested
the combined parishes should be called “Stanton Green”. There was in effect only
one village and few people knew where the boundary between the parishes was
located. There was one school, one post office, one police station, one village
institute and one recreation ground. All these were in the parish of All Saints’
whose council administered the same public service for the benefit of both
parishes. If the civil parishes were united they would still be distinct
ecclesiastically

1926

At Cambridge Education Committee Ald Starr said that recently children had gone to
school showing signs of chicken-pox. Were proper steps taken to prevent them going
to school? Dr Dalton thought a very big mistake had been made in excluding an
enormous number of children because they happened to be in a house where chicken-
pox was. Children were excluded where necessary but in cases like mumps and
chicken-pox it was very much better to let the children go to school. When it came
to more serious diseases like measles it was a very different matter
1901

At Huntingdon County Court Godmanchester Council sued the wife of Mr Ernest Terah
Hooley, of Papworth Hall for £187 19s. 8d for repairs to a highway caused by
excessive traffic. She had a traction engine drawing two trucks which constantly
travelled over the road conveying agricultural produce, building materials and road
material. This traffic began in 1900 & over 1,000 tons of material had been
conveyed. Mr Hooley said he would take care that the engines were not sent on the
roads in bad weather another year. During lunch an arrangement was arrived at
between the parties; the terms were not mentioned.

Thursday 20th September

1976

In the pleasant dining room at the Hunters Fen restaurant at Cottenham we found the
Cottenham smokies (55p), a mackerel smoked by the chef-innkeeper, Mr Noel Jeffery,
was worth a place in anybody’s recipe book. We were also trying for the first time
“our local wine, St Etheldreda, Isle of Ely Sylvaner-Reisling” at £2.50. It was
fruity and extremely pleasant, so pleasant that it seemed to go down almost too
quickly. We could have had steak and kidney pie (£1.65), Hunstman’s beefsteak
(£1.95) or Cottenham lamb cutlets (£2.05). The vegetables were an absolute delight;
for 45p each we had crunchy carrots, mashed potatoes, green peas and a delicious
marrow and tomato concoction. We drove off into the wet fen night after paying the
bill of £12.30 well satisfied.

1951

There must be a great many single business and professional women living in “digs”
in Cambridge who just long for a small self-contained flat or flatlet of their own.
One organisation anxious to do something is the National Federation of Business
Professional Women’s Clubs, which has a building society of its own, the Probus
Women’s Housing Society. The Cambridge B.P. club is now considering whether to buy
houses. If they do go ahead it will look out for a house suitable for conversion
into flats. It is good to see this club, which has a strong social sense, trying to
do something really practical for its members.

1926

Cambridge Women’s Housing Association has been formed to assist in the supply of
houses for the town and, in particular, to meet the urgent demand for the provision
of more housing accommodation at an economic rent for the educated woman worker and
others. It proposes to purchase suitable houses and convert them into self-
contained flats of one, two or three rooms with kitchenettes. At a later stage it
is hoped to build a residential club. Already nearly £1,000 has been subscribed.

1901

The Bishop of Ipswich conducted the formal opening of Hamond Lodge, near King’s
Lynn, as a Home for Inebriate Women. It will accommodate 33 patients on the
voluntary principle and is conducted by the Church of England Temperance Society in
the Diocese of Ely. A large number of sympathisers, chiefly ladies and clergy
attended the dedication service and inspected the house together with the gardens
and glass houses which promise much healthy employment for the patients.
Friday 21st September

1976

In eight weeks a gang of 120 men and their expensive machines have made a nine-mile
scratch across the North Cambridgeshire countryside. In two years’ time, and after
£16 million has been spent it will be known as the Northern by-pass. As we browsed
around the site at Stow-cum-Quy the foreman told us: “Look around as much as you
like but don’t stop the men from working. The machines are costing us £45 an hour”.
The labour force, numbering 120, is increasing week by week. Most of the workers
are local men, so the by-pass is giving Cambridge employment figures a welcome
nudge.

1951

The pilot of a Meteor jet fighter was killed before 3,000 to 4,000 horrified
spectators following a mid-air collision with another Meteor at the Battle of
Britain “open day” display at R.A.F. Station, Waterbeach. His mother was among
those who saw the accident. One Meteor crashed within 200 yards of the crowd, burst
into flames and exploded. The other fell on the edge of the airfield near the
Cambridge-Ely road. It too burnt and exploded. The display was abandoned and the
station commander said over the loudspeaker: “In view of the tragedy you have just
witnessed there will be no more flying to-day. You are asked to go home as quickly
as possible”.

1926

Sir – Will the Transport Authority please have a look at Mill Road junction with
East Road, Cambridge. Corners are being rounded off and visibility increased in
many parts but at this extremely busy point efforts seem to have been multiplied to
prevent a safe flow of traffic. The large block of lavatories and the telephone
kiosk form nuclei for masses of trees, shrubs and large flowering plants which
entirely obstruct the view. Everyone enjoys greenery and colour, but in this
instance they are in the wrong place, without doubt, and call for removal – “Safety
First”

1901

Mr Smith, a member of the Social Democratic Foundation paid a visit to Cambridge

and in the evening addressed a gathering on Parker’s Piece. A box was conveyed to a
spot under the central electric light. From this platform the lecturer discoursed.
The majority of the audience appeared to be sympathetic. A few juveniles however
found pleasure in throwing lumps of turf at the speaker and disrupting his remarks.
A large number of pamphlets were sold at the conclusion of the meeting.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 24th September

1976

All fish in the River Snail, near Fordham, have been killed after a discharge of
pollution from Newmarket Sewage Treatment Works during routine replacement of drive
equipment to the aerators in the activated sludge plant. Coun Newport said the
river was often used for paddling by young children and the pollution could have
resulted in an epidemic. “The Anglian Water Authority did not mention it, hoping it
would pass unnoticed”, he said. “Fordham has already threatened the AWA with High
Court action if this occurs again”.

1951
The Minister of Local Government and Planning has confirmed the principle that
there shall be a green wedge between Cherry Hinton and the main mass of Cambridge
development. He has revoked planning permission previously granted for housing
between Cherry Hinton Road and Queen Edith’s Way and says this area should be
reserved for some form of open development to ensure that Cherry Hinton is not
engulfed in Cambridge.

1926

Newmarket Urban Council has relaxed severe restrictions on the sale of English coal
and is to increase permits to meet the requirements for the race weeks. It was also
decided to commence full street lighting. But the regulations on the use of light
for the purpose of advertisement and display allowed no exceptions and they
prohibited all lighting beyond the minimum required to carry on the business or
protest property. Although restrictions might be relaxed it is still of the first
importance that all householders observe the utmost economy in the use of coal.

1901

Magistrates refused to renew the licence of the George and Dragon, Willingham. They
were told it had five bedrooms and stabling for 14 horses but there was no sleeping
accommodation for guests, only one of the five bedrooms was furnished and that was
occupied by the landlord and his wife. The White Hart, 105 yards away, had seven
bedrooms and stabling for 12 horses. There were 16 licensed houses and it was not
required. The Pampisford Brewery said that since 1876 there had been only one
conviction for selling beer outside hours and presented a petition signed by many
residents.

Tuesday 25th September

1976

Cambridge University clinical medical school was launched in a sea of champagne

bubbles when students and professors got together at Addenbrooke's Hospital for an
informal reception. The first intake of students consisted of 53 young men and
women who have come to Cambridge for “on the job” training and will move from
speciality to speciality under the watchful eye of consultants. Addenbrooke's is
already the biggest and most prestigious provincial teaching hospital and by the
early 1980s will be able to take 300 students.

1951

The proprietor of a Newmarket Hotel was sentenced for permitting the premises to be
used as a brothel. Police had frequently seen girls entering the hotel with
Americans, on average between 10 and 20 a night. It was said they stayed there on
the understanding they occupied separate rooms. The Defence lawyer said: “Every
hotel keeper in this part of the world is having an extremely anxious and worrying
time. Apparently the generosity of these American Servicemen to young women in the
areas where they are stationed is a temptation”

1926
Deep regret will be felt of the news of the death of Councillor H.W. Hurrell of
Newton Manor. A staunch Conservative he took a prominent interest in public affairs
and was chairman of the County Education Committee since 1922. During his period
many of the elementary schools have undergone great changes. He will always be
remembered for the Newton School of Metal Work where boys produce beautiful works
of art in copper, brass, silver and pewter which are sent all over the country as
well as to America and India. “It is one of the finest things the village ever
had”, said a resident.

1901

Haverhill School Board expressed sympathy to the people of America in the loss they
had suffered by the death of their President at the hands of an assassin who had
done it by the direction of others better educated and too cowardly themselves to
commit the deed. They were closely associated with that great nation, Haverhill, in
Massachusetts, being made by Haverhill people in the first instance. They heard a
complaint about parents, who were chiefly tradesmen, keeping their children away
from school on the early closing days, and taking them for walks.

Wednesday 26th September

1976

Wine production in the region will be more than doubled this year as vineyards
reach maturity. But prospects of a vintage year have been shattered by the recent
warm damp weather which has proved an ideal climate for diseases. At Linton Mr Sam
Alper of Chilford Hall said they were now pressing the grapes. Mr G. Reece of
Gamlingay Vineyard is finding the disease troubles “a bit of a nuisance”. Mr Norman
Sneesby thinks his vines at Wilburton will bring a yield of ten tons while Mr Ron
Jeffries of Saffron Walden who started Wenden Vineyard four years ago hopes to
improve on last years 1,000 bottles from his one acre site.

1951

Plain clothes motorists’ patrols tried on the roads in Huntingdonshire are

considered by the men themselves to be a waste of time. The patrols will be
continued but for the most part they will be in uniform in the future. Thousands of
people saw uniformed police in cars and adjusted their driving accordingly but only
a few saw the plain-clothes patrols who were looking for gross driving violations.
Another disadvantage of plain-clothes patrols was that the vehicles could not have
wirelesses which would give them away, so they could not be got in touch with.

1926

Cambridge Guardians received a complaint from a resident in Gwydir Street: “How

much longer have we to put up with the filthy, stinking smoke which is belching
forth from the Workhouse chimney in Mill Road. My little girl is delicate and it
makes her so ill that I have to take her out of the house as the smoke penetrates
every room, besides killing the flowers in our little garden and making our washing
filthy”. The black smoke was terrible and had made people ill. The Workhouse Master
attributed the trouble to steam coal which had to be used.

1901
Ever since the germ theory was established, persons of active imagination have been
liable to hallucinations as to the dangers in this or that article of food or dress
until there seemed nothing left for one to do but get into a bath of carbolic acid
and stay there. The latest subject of the panic-mongers has been Harris tweeds. The
proprietor of South Harris, where tweed-making is most actively carried on is Lord
Dunmore who has demolished the unwarranted allegations. He will shortly be
connected with Cambridge as Chairman of the Great Eastern Cement Company which has
acquired the Poplar Hall Estate.
.

Thursday 27th September

1976

Pure, clear water is what everyone who uses Fen Drayton village hall should be
getting from now in. But for almost 40 years they have been drinking unsafe water –
and no-one even guessed or showed the slightest sign of poisoning. Villagers found
that their water came from the nearby Land Settlement Association reservoir, where
it is used mainly for watering crops. A Cambridge Water Company inspector
discovered it wasn’t fit to drink. It only came to light when the estate turned off
supplies at night to conserve water during the drought, and the village hall taps
ran dry.

1951

The retirement of Mr A.V. Williams after nearly 25 years service with Messrs G.P.
Hawkins means a loss of a familiar figure at the Dorothy Café. He has waited upon
many celebrities, including film and radio stars Freddie Grisewood, Wilfred
Pickles, Jessie Matthews, Richard Murdoch and Kenneth Horne and Don Bradman’s
Australian Cricket Team in 1938. A pre-war recollection is of Sir Oswald Mosley and
William Joyce (remembered later as “Lord Haw Haw” on the German radio). On one
occasion Joyce deputised as a Fascist meeting for Mosley, whom the Proctors had
advised not to come to Cambridge, and the basement at the Dorothy was filled with
police – just in case!

1926

Cambridge Workers’ Hospital Fund raised nearly £3,900 last year but expenses of
Addenbrooke’s Hospital were liable to increase. They were now installing new
operating theatres, two of the women’s wards were being remodelled to provide
sanitary annexes and in the near future they would have to build a new ward on the
top of Victoria. This all cost money and unless their income was increased they
would have a drop in efficiency. It was a worry to know where the money was coming
from. One bright spot was the parades; before the war they only received £600 from
them, this year it would be over £4,000.

1901

The Infectious Diseases Hospital, long known as the Sanatorium, in Mill Road,
Cambridge is at the centre of the system under which all cases of scarlet fever,
diphtheria, typhoid fever and small-pox are notified and wherever isolation at home
is difficult the patient is removed for treatment to the hospital. Although Romsey
Town has encroached extensively upon what not very long ago were open fields, the
Sanatorium is still upon the verge of the country. From the grounds the view of a
fine expanse of rural scenery is commanded; the air is fresh and invigorating.
There is a large field behind and in this the new diphtheria block has been
erected.

Friday 28th September

1976
A new flats complex for elderly people in Sturton Street, Cambridge, was opened by
Mrs Rae Linnett, widow of the former Vice-Chancellor of Cambridge University after
whom it is named. He was chairman of the appeal which raised money for the scheme
which was promoted by the Anchor Housing Association. Linnett House, which includes
communal rooms, a laundry room and a warden’s flat, is the first new development
for the use of Cambridge residents named after a senior member of the University.

1951

Mr & Mrs Dennis Collins of Cambridge, who are “Uncle Dennis” and “Auntie Jean” to
thousands of holiday making children have just returned from their second season at
Hunstanton where they have the job of keeping the children happy so that mother and
father can go off on their own. During the twelve-week season they have given their
show of magic, marionettes and all the entertainments the kiddies like to 15,000
children. They are also a temporary mother and father and Jean seldom goes out
shopping without a trail of children behind her.

1926

A young man in Newnham Street, Ely, was digging sand from a pit and was using his
pickaxe somewhat freely, when he struck a human skull. A further removal of the
earth revealed the whole skeleton; around it was found very ancient pieces of
pottery. Many years ago an old public house with the sign of The Cherry Tree stood
on the spot and it was an occasional rule to have a “dust up” before some rowdy
parties broke up at night-time, but the skull showed no marks of violence, except
where the pick had come into contact with it. The remains were collected and
carefully reburied.

1901

Newmarket licensing magistrates heard there was an exceedingly bitter cry from the
inhabitants of the Stanley and Cheveley Roads that little or no accommodation was
provided for obtaining that they required in the way of liquid refreshment. There
were 700 people in that part of town, forming in reality a colony. Since 1887, 114
houses, large and small had been built and there was only an outdoor beerhouse.
There had been occasions when brandy was urgently required to save a life but the
nearest place it could be obtained was distant half-a-mile. The Stanley Arms, owing
to the lavish expenditure by Mr Shephard was eminently suited for a full-licensed
house. It was refused.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 1st October

1976

Plans to ease the water shortage in the Huntingdon area are being held up because
there is too much water in the River Ouse to bring the unique £200,000 flow-
reversal scheme into operation. Graham Water is already being recharged much faster
than it is being emptied. Up to a few weeks ago the flow was so low that the
reservoir pumps had been idle for weeks. Now they are putting in up to 50 million
gallons a day as a result of the heavy rainfall which has swollen the Ouse river
system. As the Graham pumps can only handle up to 100 million gallons a day there
is no safety margin to allow the trial pumping to begin

1951
Hopes of a lasting and growing fellowship of British Ex-Japanese war prisoners long
after their claims for ill-treatment from the Japs have been settled were voiced at
the Yatsume Club’s first reunion at Cambridge. There was prolonged cheering for
General Percival, the man whose ceaseless energy and drive has been largely
instrumental in getting recognition in cash. He told them they could expect to
receive compensation for prison hardship – about 4½ d [FOUR PENCE HALF PENNY] a
day. Nothing could be more appropriate that that his announcement should be made in
Cambridge, the county town of a regiment whose hardships in the Far East were cruel
and prolonged.

1926

P.C.Q – “Please Charleston Quietly” is the plea of all real dance lovers as was
evidenced at the Rendezvous Ballroom, Cambridge, when demonstrations of the new
Flat Charleston Waltz, Tango and Fox-Trot were given. In its new form, with all
distasteful kickings and stampings eliminated, the Charleston will appeal to the
most fastidious. The Rendezvous with its new decoration, improved sitting-out
accommodation and the popular Nobby Clark and his band is assured of an even
greater following.

1901

Addenbrooke’s Hospital Advisory Council considered the installation of electric

light. The Gas Committee was strongly in favour of the electric light and it would
be to the advantage of the patients and in the best interests of the Hospital. But
Mr Gibson said that gas incandescent light is a better and broader light than
electric light. Mr Whipple said they had decided it would be better financially and
better for the health of the Hospital to have electric light. Was it worth going
over it all again? The proposal was carried.

Tuesday 2nd October

1976

It is NOT the driest summer in the Cambridge are for 500 years, or even 250 years –
and that is official. Cambridge Water Company strongly suspected the statisticians
were becoming over-excited. Now its doubts have been confirmed. Weathermen have
been forced to admit that the months from October 1920 until November 1921 were
even drier; during that time there were 13.4 inches of rain in the Cambridge area,
compared to 15 inches in the same period up to the end of June this year.

1951

The cause of the aeroplane crash in St Mary’s Street, Ely, in August when a lorry
driver was killed instantly and a pilot instructor received injuries which proved
fatal, will always remain a mystery. At the resumed inquest the surviving member of
the Harvard training plane’s crew of two could remember nothing from the time when
he was asked if he would like to try some new aerobatics to regaining consciousness
in the R.A.F. hospital several hours later. A verdict of misadventure was returned.

1926

An article in “Country Life” relates to the house, no.21 Madingley Road Cambridge
in a choice spot beside the Backs which is included in an auction sale. “Everyone
knows that building is costly, but there will be curiosity as to how as much as
£6,000 could be spent in building a house in which the chief accommodation
consisted of only six bedroom. Some four years ago an American laid out that sum on
the house which is he now vacating. The auctioneer have orders to treat on the
basis of market value, not cost, so someone will get a bargain”.

1901

Magistrates heard that the parties were tenants of two out of five cottages built
in a yard at Hundon, and there was a right to use a common bakehouse. There had
been difficulty about fixing the time at which each of the tenants could use the
bakehouse, which was also used for washing purposes. Complainant was always in the
habit of arranging with the defendant when she wanted to bake but found the other
woman had got the copper full and was washing. As she could not light the bakehouse
fire when there was one in this stove she put a little water on it, and took the
chimney away and put her bread in the oven. Defendant took the bread out, lit the
fire again and boiled the water in the kettle. She then took hold of her round the
waist and swung her out into the yard.

Wednesday 3rd October

1976

The powerful stench in Haverhill’s library is enough to make a bookworm’s nose curl
up. For two days librarian Roy Foster and his staff struggled to work in the
polluted atmosphere. But finally the ever-increasing smell forced the library to
close. Workmen who were called in to examine the sewers and drains traced the
source of the smell to a warm-air heating duct where they found a decomposed
hedgehog. Following a quick clean with disinfectant the library was back in
business.

1951

Woodbury Hall, Gamlingay, formerly “one of the showpieces of the district” was
requisitioned for troops at the outbreak of war. “The troops did their best to
demolish the place and ruin it, and before they had finished with it, it caught
fire”, councillors were told. The owner, Capt. Astell had applied to the Ministry
of Works for £14,000 to put it in some sort of order so that he could live in it
again, but they were going to allow only £4,000. It was absolutely disgusting than
an officer and gentleman who did what he could for his country could not get his
house back in order.

1926

We understand that Sir W. Graham Greene, K.C.B., of Harston, has been approached as
to his standing as an Independent candidate for the vacancy on the County Council.
He has had an interest in Harston since 1893 but official engagements at the
Admiralty and Ministry of Munitions have prevented him hitherto from passing as
much time in the County as he would have liked. His sisters, Miss Mary and Miss
Helen Greene are well known for their public and philanthropic work and the new
hall at Harston is largely due to their efforts.

1901

A young bull with journalistic instincts paid a hurried visit to the editorial
department of the C.D.N. The editor’s assistant went to the door on hearing a
slight knock to be confronted by the bull, who evidently desired to see the
“chief”. As the animal did not present a card, a movement was made to get him off
the premises. In this a butcher’s boy rendered great assistance and the courageous
animal trotted merrily into St Andrew’s Street to resume his journey to happier
surroundings.

Thursday 4th October

1976

Kingsway Flats residents have welcomed the move by Cambridge city councillors to
put a stop to noise nuisance and vandalism by youngsters congregating outside their
homes at night. The residents have complained for years about youngsters running
through the passageways, banging on windows and smashing milk bottles. One said:
“We are sick and tired of being sworn at and insulted by these gangs of young
hooligans. These kids are only 13 or 14 at the most and treat us like dirt. They
sit round on the concrete yelling and shouting every night. The girls are as bad as
the boys. Their behaviour is shocking. It’s not just kissing and cuddling they get
up to. God knows what their mothers and fathers do with them”

1951

Some 80 Post Office engineers in the Cambridge Telephone area – stretching from
North London to the Wash - began work today on converting 1,700 coin boxes on
telephones to take 3d instead of 2d for local calls. The increased charge came into
operation today when the additional charge for trunk or toll calls was also
increased. Some 300 boxes are being converted in Cambridge and work will be
completed in a the next few days

1926

The idea of demolishing a couple of dilapidated old houses in Melbourne Place to

erect workshops and a caretaker’s house at the Central Council School appeared
repugnant to several members of Cambridge council but were adopted by a large
majority. They contain kitchen, basement, one room on the ground floor and two
bedrooms, one very small. The basements are unfit for habitation and very damp.
There were no stoves. It would cost £100 to renovate the interior and exterior.
The Mayor said it was not the time to demolish houses when there were 600 on the
waiting list. Why were they unfit for habitation? They were half-buried by the
rubbish from the school.

1901

A meeting of Cambridge tradesmen considered the subject of early closing. In the

body of the hall were a good number of employers of labour and their assistants who
were liberal in their applause of those who spoke in favour of a uniform and early
hour for closing on Thursday afternoons. The Mayor reminded the assistants that the
meeting was called for the mastermen and their voices should be silent and their
hands still when the vote was taken. After two hours discussion, which at times
grew somewhat warm, a resolution in favour of closing at two o’clock all the year
round, with certain exceptions, was passed.

Friday 5th October

1976

A petrol tanker overturned near Saffron Walden and in seconds turned into a raging
inferno. The driver was killed. Flames shot 50 ft into the air and a thick, black
column of smoke could be seen miles from the scene, on the A11 outside Audley End
House. Grass verges for 100 yards on either side of the tanker were scorched and a
passing motorist came close to being trapped in the blaze. A ten-yard length of the
flint wall was demolished and 60 square yards of the forest was destroyed by
flames. It is the second tanker disaster on the A11 in just over three years. The
first was a collision between a 6,000-gallon diesel tanker and a lorry at Quendon
in March 1973. Two weeks later a tanker carrying 6,000 gallons of aviation fuel
collided with a car at Audley End, but there was no fire.

1951

Members of a new company of the Boys’ Brigade were seen in their first church
parade and march past in the Newmarket Road area of Cambridge on Sunday. The
company, that of Ditton Fields Free Church, is at the beginning of its career; it
is hoped that by October there will be a sufficient number of recruits to justify
the company being fully enrolled in the Brigade. It was augmented by the 5th
Cambridge Company which has been established more than 50 years. Mr H.A. Twinn told
them: “You must have discipline if you are to do anything at all”. Some boys
organisations had been compared with Hitler’s youth movement but their members were
trained in a helpful and Christian way of life, he said

1926

Cambridge Town Council passed a scheme to provide houses to be let at a rent of 5s

[SHILLINGS] or 6s per week for people who cannot afford to pay more, and especially
those with large families. A Utility Society is to lease building plots from the
Corporation at nominal ground rent for the erection of the houses, the cost of
which would not exceed £450 each. It was an effort to help men with families of
three or four children who earned 35s or 45s a week & could not pay 7s 6d a week
rent

1901

An old otter was killed on Robinson Crusoe’s Island by Messrs T.J. Prime and W.
Wilson. It was in the grass and they killed it with a bill hook. It was exactly
four feet long, and its weight approached 40 lbs. The animal is on view at the
Anchor, Silver Street, Cambridge.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday October 8th

1976

A Newmarket councillor explained why he slips out of “tedious” council meetings for
a few minutes. “I find the only way I can contain my impatience is to go out for a
pint”, he said. “I make no bones about it I find certain meetings drag on with
repetitions and irrelevancies”. He was opposing a suggestion to reduce by £2 the
attendance allowance of councillors arriving more than 15 minutes late or leaving
the meeting for more than 15 minutes. He could down a pint in 15 seconds and be
back from the pub within 15 minutes.

1956

Cambridge Education committee made
flouting their wish to build a new
government had given permission to
land between Queen Edith’s Way and
they would not put a school on the
a strong attack on the planning ministry for
secondary school at Wort’s Causeway. The
the governors of St Thomas’ Hospital to develop
Wort’s Causeway as a housing estate. They hoped
Ventress Farm site which was “a bad site and a
bad position” & urged that action be taken to “rectify this bureaucratic injustice”

1926

At the Newmarket Police Court a solicitor on behalf of Greene, King & Sons,
brewers, said there was a real difficulty in Ashley in obtaining premises for the
sub Post Office and he proposed that it should be attached to the Crown Public
House. In order to do this it would be necessary to carry out structural
alterations. Nobody could enter the public house through the Post Office, or the
Post Office through the public house. If it were possible to get another property
it would be desirable to do so as the language at a public house was not always of
the best

1901

The police station is part of the machinery which Society has devised for its own
protection and for inflicting punishment upon wrong doers. In the golden age there
will be no use for Police Stations, and the fine building of which Cambridge has
just witnessed the opening may justifiably be converted into a Free Library. There
is no virtue in locking up a wrong doer in an ugly prison and the architect of the
new station, Mr John Morley, has designed a building which is an ornament to the
town. The cells are not luxurious but they are not stifling. It is true the
building has cost a good deal but is excellent value for money.

Tuesday 9th October

1976

Only six of Cambridge City Council’s 11,000 tenants have shown any interest in
buying their houses since the controlling Conservatives agreed to offer them for
sale. Labour members complained bitterly about the policy of house-selling when
waiting lists for council houses were growing larger and house-building programmes
were being cut. They also complained about the growing shortage of private houses
for letting. The council’s Conservative leader, Coun. John Powley said: “I want to
help to return the wealth of the country to the people of the country”. The council
went on to confirm its policy of selling houses.

1951

The manager of the Kinema, Mill Road, Cambridge was convicted for his part in
conspiracies involving nine tons of rationed foodstuffs without the surrender of
necessary permits and coupons in contravention of the Defence Regulations 1939. It
involved more than 1 ½ [ONE AND A HALF] tons of margarine worth about £190; six
tons of sugar worth £360 and 1 ½ [ONE AND A HALF] tons of butter valued at £300. He
was sent to prison for six months.

1926
A mild sensation has been caused at Hemingford Abbots by a notice on the Rectory
Gate. “Young persons and others have adopted a style of dress which is immodest and
most objectionable. I disapprove strongly of the short skirts, bare necks and bare
arms and hope women will wear more to cover themselves. In fact some cannot be said
to be sufficiently clothed. I trust all women not to come to church so attired”. It
is the work of the rector’s warden, Col. Charles Linton, a brisk, short, military-
looking man who belongs to the Victorian era & speaks his mind bluntly.

1901

A special meeting of Chesterton Urban District Council was held to consider a

suggestion from Cambridge that they should amalgamate with a view of forming a
County Borough. The Chairman said they were bound to give proper consideration to
any suggestion they had to make but that from the result of the last poll upon the
subject he did not think there was the slightest chance.

Wednesday 10th October

1976

Stop building! That was the instruction from the Government that blocked plans for
new homes in Cambridge. The Department of the Environment now has the right to veto
plans for new house building for at least three months. The first scheme to feel
the effects is the Cherry Hinton housing development plans for Walpole Road which
were before the council for approval. Although the scheme was given the go-ahead
they will now not be allowed to invite tenders during the rest of 1976.

1951

Trinity College has had the heraldic shields over the Great Gate repainted and the
statue of King Henry VIII has at last been furnished with a proper sceptre. This
has taken the place of the common or garden chair leg that has for years been fixed
in the right hand of the effigy. When a similar redecoration was carried out
between the two world wars the chair leg was regilded and solemnly replaced. Now a
wrong has been righted and King Henry is no longer the custodian of the remains of
a piece of kitchen furniture!

1926

A public inquiry on the Cambridge Town Planning Scheme heard of problems with dust
from the cement works. If the works were increased the dust must increase and if
the material was ground finer it would be more difficult to collect. The smell from
the Gas Works was merely unpleasant but the dust actually affected the health of
the people who had to breathe it; they had the dust on their lungs and were
permanently affected by it. The Company did not admit that the dust from their
works is, or ever had been injurious to health.

1901
A number of Cambridge gentlemen interested in the cement industry have formed the
Cambs Cement Chamber of Commerce to further in every possible way the interests of
cement manufacturing in the county. To them Mr W. Abbott is prepared to make over
by deed of gift fifteen acres of the Poplar Hall Estate, simply asking that the
land shall be efficiently worked and from time to time reports published. He is
convinced it would put beyond all question that there is money in Cambridgeshire
cement.

Thursday 11th October

1976

Work is progressing smoothly on the extension of Barnwell Road, Cambridge, to link

up in about two years’ time with Brooks Road on the other side of the Cambridge-
Newmarket main railway line. The aim is to provide a quick route for heavy traffic
between Newmarket Road and Perne Road and out on to the main roads to London. This
will by-pass the notorious traffic bottlenecks of Coldham’s Lane. The scheme
includes a new bridge over the railway and an extensive road island and an
extensive road island at the Brook’s Road – Coldham’s Lane junction.

1951

Many in need of houses in the Chesterton Rural District are unable to afford the
rent of new accommodation, despite the fact that the amount asked is less than the
true economic rent. When new housing is being planned it should be related to the
needs of the community and include suitable accommodation for all groups,
particularly the aged, for whom small bungalows are often advisable. The true
economic rent of an average post-war three-bedroomed house is £1.1s.11d (£1.10)
plus 5s.6d (28p) rates. The rent usually charged is £1. Post-war dwellings
completed include 50 pre-fab bungalows and 219 hut conversions. But there are still
1,705 applications on the housing list.

1926

By the death of Mr Henry Flanders, chemist of Mill Road, Cambridge we feel we have
lost a friend to whom we could have gone at all times for advice. We admired his
knowledge and tact and the way he treated everybody alike. There was no distinction
between rich and poor in his shop. He was the poor man’s guide, philosopher and
friend. We who have in time of many ailments sought his friendly counsel have come
away relieved by his cheery words. When it happened – fairly frequently – that a
poor client had not at the moment the cash ready he would invariably say, “Oh, yes,
yes, that’s all right”

1901

Our announcement that the result of the race for the America Cup would be made
known from the Liberal Club, St Andrew’ Street, by a coloured light, caused the
liveliest satisfaction throughout the town. The news however arrived before the
expected time and we burned the red light at 9 o’clock. Half an hour later large
numbers of people assembled and though a whisper went through the crowd that the
light of the victorious yacht had been burned the news was not altogether credited.
In order that they should not be disappointed another red light was burned as the
clock struck the half-hour.

Friday 12th October

1976

A pirate radio station raided by police and Post Office officials last week was
back on the air at the weekend. ABC England, which has been broadcasting a two-hour
music programme to Europe each Sunday, was found transmitting at New Town Road,
Haddenham. It is claimed the owner of the property was not involved and had merely
lent out his shed. Amongst those caught were a number of Cambridge men known to
have a keen interest in the cause of free radio. Operating on short wave it has
been making regular transmissions since February. A spokesman for the radio station
said a broadcast went out from a secret address on a replacement transmitter

1951

Two hours before the Prime Minister, Clement Atlee, was due to address a meeting in
the Cambridge Guildhall a queue which ultimately wound round the whole of the
building had begun to form. By the time the meeting opened about 1,250 people were
crowded inside. Some 1,500 more packed into the Corn Exchange to hear a relay of
his speech. Others stood in the streets listening to a further broadcast of it. A
large crowd gave cheers mingled with a few boos as he drove away at the end with
Mrs Attlee at the wheel and a Special Branch detective in the back.

1926

The Lord Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire opened the newly-acquired hall of the

Cottenham British Legion. The branch, which numbers over 100 members, was formed in
January 1923 and a short while ago received a substantial grant from the United War
Services Funds which enabled them to take over “Pepys Hall” as their Headquarters.
They had given a lead to other villages in the way of halls and if others followed
the villages would be “snowballing up” in the getting of halls

1901

A smart boy, of good appearance who has passed through the standards at school may
find employment as a Post Office telegraph messenger pleasant and varied. From the
telegraph boys the letter boys are chosen. He has to be out in all weathers and
must needs be of a good physique, but if the hours are somewhat irregular he is
always paid for overtime. His income is up to the average of that of the working
man and he is also assured, after a certain number of years’ service, of a pension.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 15th October

1976

More than 500 women who make their living on fenland potato-handling plants are on
short-time working because of the clump in demand. The plants, which prepare
potatoes for powdered substitutes, chipping, pre-packing, crisping and the retail
trade are only ticking over at a time of the year when they would normally be
working flat out. As a result many poorer families are now caught in a poverty
trap, working only 15 hours a week instead of 35. Even in normal times they earn
between 60p and 70p an hour, which is well below the agricultural minimum of 91p an
hour.

1951

What had been suspected to be the shaft left by an unexploded bomb in the quarries
of the Norman Cement Works has now turned out to be nothing more dangerous than an
ancient well. The shaft was discovered by Mr H. Covill when the 140-ton excavator
he was driving cut across it. The quarry foreman, Mr W. Chandler ordered work to
cease: “I didn’t want to take any chances with all that expensive machinery”, he
said. Portsmouth Bomb Disposal squad located the end of the shaft some 50 feet
below the surface of the ground. At the bottom were a few fragments of ancient
pottery.

1926

Strawberries in October! Such a sight in the front window of Sambridge’s in Petty

Cury, Cambridge, promoted a CDN representative to ask some questions. They were
grown within 15 miles of Cambridge on one of Messrs Chivers’ farms and were picked
that morning. In the future we may get English strawberries all the year round.
Experiments are being carried on all over the country. And the strawberry season is
reckoned to close in the middle of July! Life is full of wonders and
disappointments!

1901
Cambridge Guardians heard that a coffin had been supplied by the undertaker minus
the plate and the funeral had had to be postponed. The people concerned had a
desire to avoid, as far as possible, what might be termed a pauper funeral and were
willing to pay half the expense. The coffin should be provided by the parochial
authorities but the relative wanted it made by someone other than the man who did
the work on behalf of the Union because, with some of that pride which they had
seen so frequently exemplified by paupers, they wanted to escape the eyes of Mrs
Grundy. That had probably led to a little friction with the undertaker.

Tuesday 16th October

1976

As you read this Cambridge’s kidney transplant team could be facing a choice. Two
people, both dying. Which one should they allow to live? The reason is simple. Not
enough kidneys are being offered for transplant. Last year the team at
Addenbrooke's Hospital only carried out 36 kidney transplants – it could cope with
up to 100. The desperate shortage is continuing; for about three months they only
carried out one transplant, but after some good publicity on television were able
to carry out five transplants over one weekend.

1951

Bottisham Small-Bore Rifle Club held its outdoor shoot on the new outdoor range at
Swaffham Bulbeck. A great deal of work was entailed in the preparation of the site
and gratitude was expressed to Mr Stevens for the use of his land for the range,
and to the police and military authorities for their help and prompt issuing of the
necessary permits. The warden of Bottisham Village College has given every
encouragement to the patriotic recreation of small-bore rifle shooting.

1926

Miss Olive Edis whose photographic portraiture is well-known in Cambridge has come
again to St Columba’s Hall. The collection is the fruit of many visits to Cambridge
during recent years. There is an interesting collection of colour plates, some
being fine examples of the Lumiere plate and others in the new gum-grain Agfa
plate. The scarlet gowns make effective touches of colour and the portraits include
Sir Arthur Shipley at the gateway of the Lodge at Christ’s and a fine head of Sir
J.J. Thomson which gives a far more natural portrait than most of his paintings,
with colour. A view of King’s College from the Backs is an exquisite example of
what Miss Edis can do in landscape work and portraits of children and well-known
nonagenarians and centenarians play an important part.

1901

Sir – I would like to call attention to the state of affairs which exists on Sunday
afternoons at the Backs of the Colleges and Garrett Hostel Lane. I found the
railings at the bottom of the Lane occupied by about 20 youths, or rather rowdies,
who assailed passers-by with a volley of whistles, noises and remarks of a very
coarse description. To respectable people this kind of thing is highly
objectionable. Surely something can be done by the police to put an end to such a
great nuisance which spoils one of the most pleasant walks in Cambridge – Pro Bono
Publico

Wednesday 17th October

1976

Council houses in south Cambridgeshire have suffered structural damage as an

indirect result of the drought – and it may cost as much as £25,000 to put it
right. Two houses in Elsworth have subsided so badly that the council are in favour
of demolishing them. The long hot summer caused clay subsoils to shrink with the
result that some foundations have settled and cracks have appeared. Cottenham and
Dry Drayton are badly affected. Some houses are rectifying themselves with the wet
weather. Doors which wouldn’t shut now will and cracks are sealing themselves up.
The committee authorised the underpinning of houses urgently in need of repair.

1951

The “desperate need” for more caravans within easy reach of Cambridge is featured
in the annual report of Chesterton Medical Officer of Health. “Although there still
remains a good deal of prejudice to this form of dwelling, it is often preferable
to other forms of temporary accommodation. Local authorities should consider the
provision of sites themselves, possibly on surplus housing sites, in order to
assist this now considerable section of the population who are endeavouring to help
themselves. The increasing control exercised by the Planning Authority renders it
difficult to secure acceptable sites and a more liberal approach would be welcomed,
pending the solution to the housing problem”, he says.

1926

Dr W.M. Palmer is chairman of the joint committee of the Cambridge Antiquarian

Society and the Cambridge Photographic Club which is engaged in the formation of a
collection of photographic records of old buildings and other objects of interest
in the county, particularly those which are likely to disappear. He displayed 160
lantern slides made by him during the last two years of old houses, taken from the
outside and from the inside, and a number of old photographs showing buildings now
vanished and costumes that are no longer worn. The record will be of great value to
the historian a hundred years hence.

1901

The Cambridge magistrates have been rather unfortunate lately. Their justice was
recently impugned by the Home Secretary and at the Quarter Sessions this week the
Recorder took exception to their law. Unhappily incidents of this kind have
happened before and the burgesses have got so accustomed to having the magistrates
“sat upon” that the circumstance is regarded as a matter of course. Many entitled
to sit on the Bench are men of superior intelligence and yet the Bench makes
blunders that bring the town into disrespect. If a JP elects to absent himself
there are no means of compelling him to attend. There is only one way out of the
difficulty – the appointment of a Stipendiary Magistrate.

Thursday 18th October

1976

A new sport was devised by an Oakington farmer, Mr D.W. Chapman: spud picking. Not
the orderly picking carried out each year by part-time fenland workers but a less-
refined version invented by ordinary people intent on surviving in inflation-hit
Britain. The offer was 7p a pound for Red Desiree. “We dig, you pick” said the
advertisement in the News. With forecasts of spuds costing at least 20p a pound by
Christmas is was an offer not to be scorned; like diving seagulls people swooped,
grabbing, scraping and grovelling. Others wandered off to a quiet spot, kicked away
the top soil and clawed out the potatoes with their bare hands. One man lifted 12
plants and then noticed his wife was selecting the whoppers and leaving the rest
for the vultures. “To hell with that”, he said, throwing down his fork, “I’m off to
the pub”

1951

St Ives council heard complaints of “lavish” expenditure by Huntingdonshire County

Council. Today the average rate was higher than any other county in England, except
one. Young men would leave the county and retired people who once settled in Hunts
because of its low rates would no longer come there. During the current year county
council salaries have increased by over £30,000 and the wages bill is now £100 more
each working day than it was a year ago. For some years Huntingdonshire has been
spending more lavishly on administration than other counties and unless drastic
economies are put in place the county will find itself in a very serious position.

1926

On Cesarewitch day Newmarket was invaded by big crowds and apart from the well-
laden trains, large numbers of visitors were conveyed from all directions by motor
vehicles and the new stand afforded a fine vantage point for thousands who have
hitherto had to pack themselves into confined space. The volume of wagering by the
general public is probably the smallest on record. That does not mean that there
are not vast fortunes at stake over the race, because there has been some heavy
wagering by some of the wealthy owners and when one looks at the list of owners and
notes it includes names of eight or nine millionaires such a state of things is not
surprising.

1901

Amongst the reserve men from Histon who went out to South Africa were three
brothers – Walter, James and Fred Willson. The former arrived home “fresh from the
front” and received a right royal welcome by his family and friends who have been
eager to listen to his interesting war tales. His brothers and other comrades are
all “fit and well”; one of the Histon boys, Ernest Adams, was a prisoner for some
time at Pretoria.

Friday 19th October

The work of Dr Stephen Hawking, the Cambridge Reader in Gravitational Physics, is

described in the Science Research Council’s annual report as one of the most
important contributions to science for some years. He has been working on the
theory of a tiny “black hole” in space, so small it can generate intense magnetic
fields. If the theory holds good it would shed light on the beginning of the
universe and tend to lean towards a Big Bang theory for the manner in which it all
started. Dr Hawking is severely handicapped and only able to produce his papers
with the aid of a special typewriter

1951

A memorial service for the late Mr W.H. Balgarnie, former Classics Master at the
Leys School, Cambridge, was held in the school chapel. He once had for a pupil the
author James Hilton, who years afterwards drew upon his memories of Mr Balgarnie
for his famous character “Mr Chips”. He joined the staff in 1900 as a Senior
Classics Master, a position he held until he retired – for the first time – in July
1929. Almost immediately he was recalled to act as Deputy Headmaster for a year.
Again he retired but when in 1940 the School moved to Pitlochry he came out of
retirement and for five years was form master of the Classical Sixth. In July 1950
he left Cambridge for a summer holiday and never returned. He died on July 15th.

1926

The old Albert Institute, Grafton Street, Cambridge was the scene of great
enthusiasm on the opening of new headquarters for the Cambridge Boy Scouts’
Association which will supply a much-felt want. Afterwards the presentation of
medals for athletics and swimming took place. An enjoyable sing-song followed and
then a meeting of leaders who discussed the uses to which the headquarters could be
put. Meanwhile refreshments were served to allay the pangs of hunger caused by such
enthusiasm. Lantern slides on India and China were shown by Assistant Commissioner
W.B. Gourlay and the evening closed with everybody in the best of spirits.

1901

Ely council heard that some years ago certain ratepayers were allowed to put stalls
on the Market Place on Saturday nights, and it was then understood that they should
be put there in the afternoon. Now stalls were there from 8 o-clock in the morning
and throughout the whole day. On Sunday morning they would find all kinds of offal
left from the previous night and discarded fruit attracted numbers of wasps. There
was lately introduced a fish stall with the refuse thrown about. They did not
object so long as the stalls were confined to Ely tradesmen but found people came
from Cambridge. If something were not done it would revolve itself into another
Saturday market

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 29th October

1976

It is 19 years since Princess Margaret laid the foundation stone of the Church of
the Good Shepherd in Arbury Road, Cambridge. At the time the first houses on the
Arbury estate had been occupied for nearly four years and acres of land still
remained to be built on. Today as she sees the church finally completed the changes
in the area are striking. The population of the parish is now about 17,000. When
the rest of the Kings Hedges estate is finished in a few years it will be nearer
20,000 – a fifth of the people in Cambridge. Houses stretch in every direction.
Arbury now forms, in effect, a small town on the edge of Cambridge.

1951

Conservatives retained Cambridge City and Cambridgeshire with increased majorities.

In the city Mr Hamilton Kerr had a majority of 5,677 over the Labour candidate, Mr
A.L. Symonds while Miss F.L. Joseph for the Liberals polled 3,257 votes and lost
her deposit. Mr Kerr later invited his opponents to lunch with him at the House of
Commons. In Cambridgeshire Gerald Howard beat H.D. Walston (Labour) by 3,537. Mr
Walston said “I am pleased to have got the largest Labour vote Cambridgeshire has
ever had”. Elsewhere Major E.A. Legge-Bourke (Isle of Ely), D.L.M Renton (Hunts)
and R.A. Butler (Saffron Walden), retained their seats

1926

Soham Parish Council say that as their fair and feast were still wanted by the
public the question of its abolition did not arise. Enquiries showed that many
years ago the tolls had been taken by the Lord of the Manor, but certainly during
the past 50 years he had neither taken tolls not exercised any control. They have
no knowledge by what rights the stalls are placed in the highway though a search
had been made of old parish books and documents.

1901

A new Diocesan Lodge for the Girls’ Friendly Society was opened at Hills Road,
Cambridge. Several spacious apartments will be used as recreation and classrooms
with lectures on nursing, home hygiene, needlework and astronomy and classes for
musical drill and singing. There are rooms for girls being trained for domestic
service & accommodation for lady boarders and visitors. The old Servants’ Training
Home, formerly situated in King Street has ceased to exist as a separate
institution. It had been established for 80 years and more than 400 girls had
passed through; it had also afforded a home to many strange and friendless girls.

Tuesday 30th October

1976

Princess Margaret whisked around Cambridge on a brisk visit. At the Arbury Estate
many local people stood out in the rain to welcome her. The royal party then left
for Langdon House, which she had opened during the previous visit where she met Mrs
Francis Aldrich, the longest-serving member of staff. By now she was 15 minutes
ahead of schedule for her visit to the University Clinical Medical School. “It
threw us into panic stations” said the Secretary, Mr J.P. Howe

1951

Last night saw the first Youth Conservative function under a post-war Conservative
Government when Cambridgeshire Young Conservatives and their friends met at the
Dorothy Ballroom for a long-awaited “Victory Ball”. Visitors came from as far as
March and Peterborough to join in the fun. Dancing was to Reg Cottage and one
novelty dance was the political elimination; the first party out was Labour and the
winners were “Conservative”. Miss E. Plummer (Teversham) won a biscuit barrel with
her lucky admission ticket. Other prices included a basket of fruit, a tray of
sweets, a basket of apples, and nylons.

1926

The Officers’ Training Corps range on Grange Road, Cambridge, has been closed down,
having been condemned by a Military Board on account of the danger to Coton. The
Cambridge University Rifle Association will for a time carry on shooting at the
Territorial range on Coldham’s Common. But there is a likelihood of this range
being closed down too in the near future because the new road in course of erection
will come up behind the butts. A united effort will be made to secure a
sufficiently large area of land for the erection of a new, full-sized range.

1901

A Lidgate dealer was charged with driving a horse and cart without having a lighted
lamp attached. P.C. Towler said he heard two carts leaving the White Horse Inn,
Wickambrook, at a furious pace. He tried to stop the horse but the driver whipped
up the animal and drove away. The dealer called Harry Nunn who said they had
borrowed a lantern with a candle from the Inn and gone by the Duddery and not up
the hill, as stated.
Wednesday 31st October

1976
In a “double wedding” the Vicar of Thaxted “married” two female couples. The women
had their union blessed in the parish church by the vicar, president of the Gay
Christians, an organisation for homosexual men and women. Parts of the Church of
England marriage service were incorporated in the ceremony. Later the couples and
their friends celebrated with drinks at the Turk’s Head Stable Bar, Cambridge and
the guests went on for more drinks at the Gay Scaramouche Club in Cambridge. One
said the couple were women from Cambridge, not students.

1951
There were no deaths resulting from childbirth in Chesterton Rural District last
year, nor any cases of diphtheria or of para-typhoid. However there were 57 cases
of scarlet fever, 76 of measles & 81 of whooping cough, while three cases of
dysentery occurred in a large mental hospital. Deaths included 58 from cancer, six
from influenza and two under two-year-olds died from diarrhoea. According to the
rate books there are 11,271 inhabited houses in the district.
`

1926

The Imperial War Graves Commission has undertaken on behalf of the Belgian
Government to erect headstones over the graves of deceased members of the Belgian
Forces in various cemeteries, including Cambridge. They will be made in Belgium and
forwarded to this country for erection. There are two graves of Belgian soldiers in
the Cambridge Borough Cemetery, two bodies being interred in each grave, and
permission was given for the erection of the headstones.

1901

While Lord John Sanger’s great show and menagerie were at Saffron Walden a keeper
found that Miss Ada, one of the performing elephants had stolen away in the night,
and several men were quickly in search of the missing ‘lady’. They found her
battering a barn at the rear of Castle Hill and had done a considerable amount of
mischief. She dragged the gate off by the hinges and battered the doors down. She
then attacked the brickwork, forcing it inwards. A great portion of the roof
collapsed. As the show was leaving the town one of the large vans got its rear
wheels into a gutter in Bridge Street; it was some time before it was righted, and
not before one of the cottages was damaged.

Thursday 1st November

1976

The long dry summer and drought emergency measures do not appear to have influenced
experts studying the possibility of storing fresh water in the Wash. Their main
conclusions are the storage reservoirs are unlikely to be required this century. A
more immediate improvement could be to abstract residual flows from the rivers
Great Ouse and Nene which could provide additional supplies of up to 75 million
gallons per day, at a relatively low cost. Since 1970 predictions of population
growth and future demands for water have dropped significantly

1951

Air Ministry proposals to use the Stella Maris nursing home to accommodate members
of an Inter-Services course learning Russian at the University was described as a
“scandal”. It was admirably equipped for use as a hospital, has accommodation for
40 patients, two completely equipped operating theatres and could relieve the
2,000-strong waiting list at Addenbrooke's Hospital. A proposal by the Ministry to
acquire the Heritage guest house in Silver Street and 9, Newnham Terrace,
Cambridge, had not gone through after college freeholders had ‘dug their heels in’.

1926

An important new block is about to be opened as an extension of the Cambridge Poor

Law Institution. The Mill Road workhouse received its first inmates in September
1838; just before Christmas married couples and the aged women arrived, and the
sick and infirm were brought ‘in fives’ from the Poor-house of St Sepulchre and St
Mary-the-Less. As tea was then 3s.3d. a lb ‘small beer’ was allowed in its place
and sometimes given in excess so the quantity was limited to one quart daily per
inmate. It has served with certain alterations and additions for three generations
but now is inadequate for present requirements. The new block contains sick wards,
maternity wards and nurseries. It will prove very useful and be a credit to the
town.

1901

The supporters of the Rev W.T.R. Crookham who, it is claimed, is the “duly-elected
chairman of the parish council” convened a meeting at Haddenham. None of the
councillors on the opposition side took part in the proceedings. The clerk of the
Council was not present but send a letter declining to summon the assembly. The
council proposed that proceedings be taken against him for not appearing and
bringing the books and documents necessary

Friday 2nd November

1976

The signing of a £1 million sales contract for the Garden House Hotel in Cambridge
marks the end of speculation and rumour about its future. Essentially a family
business established in 1910, the hotel hit world headlines in 1970 when for five
hours it was the scene of some of the worst violence Cambridge has ever
experienced. About 500 students besieged the hotel, hurling bricks and abuse as a
protest against the Colonel’s regime in Greece and caused £2,000 damage. Two years
later fire gutted the premises killing two guests. This disaster led to financial
trouble and the appointment of a receiver-manager in May 1974.

1951

From the hall of the Y.M.C.A. at Alexandra Street, Cambridge a distinguished

company launched an appeal for funds. The speaker said that the lonely searchlight
batteries during the war were visited by the Y.M.C.A. vans three times a week. They
brought the little things the soldiers liked, tea, buns, cigarettes and papers. And
the ladies of the ‘Y.M.’ took back letters for the troops and even wrote them for
soldiers who were illiterate. The Cambridge building was completed in 1871 and had
a moral affect on the thousands of young people who have been through the rooms and
shared the facilities.

1926

The name of a well-known onion – Nuneham Park – as a fitting one for the new
recreation ground at Newnham, because of the many tears it has caused on the ground
of cost, was suggested by Councillor Edwards at Cambridge council. Another name
proposed was Lamentations Land as a perpetual reminder that they had been guilty of
the most extravagant and wilful expenditure of public money. Finally the Council
decided on Lammas Land. It would signify that the ground formerly opened during
certain seasons of the year was now closed permanently against any private owner’s
rights and the public had the rights for the whole of the year.

1901

A fruitless burglary was committed at the Mill Road branch of the Cambridge Co-
operative Society. The object was obviously cash but they were scantily repaid for
their trouble, because on Saturday evening the money is cleared and lodged in the
strong room of the central stores in Burleigh Street. The manager noticed the
disarrangement of some sugar bags, which had been left ready for the weighing up of
sugar. A steel for sharpening knives had been used in breaking open the till. The
back door was unfastened but nothing is missing, the thieves preferring not to take
away goods which might have been identified.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 5th November

1976

Saffron Walden youth club leader is worried about the lack of facilities The town
has got no cinema now, there is no marked out football pitch, nor a large hall for
a disco. For a modest outlay you could build a putting green or a roller skating
area, but it had neither. He can foresee a time when transport becomes so expensive
that the children will look inwards to the town for all their entertainment.
“There’s no real problem with hooliganism yet, but it’s only just around the corner
– in about two year’s time. Even now you can tell the nights when things don’t
click at the centre by the broken milk bottles the next morning. Kids are just
bored. Drink is one of the most dangerous influences and he can foresee a time when
young people will have to show an identity card before being served in a pub.

1951

Members of the Cambridge ’50 Car Club celebrated the Fifth with a firework party
and social at Bedwell Hey, near Ely. It started with a torchlight procession to a
vast bonfire; fireworks of all kinds producing a wide variety of noise and effect
were then set off. A social in a Nissen hut included a Grand Prix competed for by
ten finger-power models – competitors ‘raced’ by drawing along miniature cars by
spooling up a thread on a pencil spun between the fingers. It was a most cheerful
and amusing evening.

1926

The Ministry of Health has been informed that in Dry Drayton meat, bacon and other
foodstuffs sold from travelling motors and horse vans were contaminated by dust,
petrol etc. The Council could do little in the matter. If the people found that
their food was unclean they need not buy it from the vehicles about which the
complaint was made.

1901

There is little survival of the old celebrations of “The Fifth” in Cambridge, save
one or two groups of youngsters with an eye to stray coppers carried around “guys”
which may have been effigies of anything. Builders, having a recollection of losses
of material on bonfire nights, had men guarding scaffolding poles, but they were
not called upon. The most noticeable thing was the fog – thick, damp and
irritating. It was not the kind of weather suitable to a rag or even a bonfire in
the back-yard. It was better fun sitting by a snug fireside than standing with cold
hands and feet in a choking fog letting off small pyrotechnic fry.

Tuesday 6th November

1976

Cambridge’s experimental “Park-and-ride” scheme got off to a slow start today. The
first bus left from the Cattle Market at 10 am and carried only 10 passengers. The
scheme is designed to relive the normal pre-Christmas traffic congestion by
allowing motorists to park free of charge and then buy a 15p return ticket to the
city centre. It will operate each Saturday until January 8th with buses leaving
every 15 minutes. The first passengers were enthusiastic about the acres of parking
space available. “Its marvellous being able to park so easily” said Mr John
Blackman, who had driven in from Sawston.

1951

Minutes and correspondence of the Histon and Impington Invasion Committee 1940-1945
are now among documents in the Cambridgeshire county archives. Also deposited are
the minutes of the Lord Lieutenant’s Central Emergency Committee 1914-1918. The
archivist, Capt Bales says: “I feel sure there are many such documents in different
villages and I fear the results of a fresh salvage drive”. He asks for increased
storage accommodation as the Muniment Room is very crowded and the documents are
scattered in various rooms of the Shire Hall and Law Courts.

1926

Cambridge Borough Surveyor submitted four schemes for the lay-out of land at the
Cattle Market. The site comprised 11½ acres and was purchased about 1884 from Jesus
College. The west side was used for vehicles of those attending the market, the
east side was partly used for allotments and the question had arisen of developing
part for conveniences, a free library and an abattoir, which was most important.
The Railway Company wanted to provide up and down platforms at the station. It was
unlikely the bridge would be widened for railway traffic was decreasing.

1901

Newmarket RDC was told that every year £120 was collected from Swaffham Prior Fen
and it was time something was done to alleviate the 100 inhabitants. Corn had to be
carted by the river as a result of the bad state of the roads, which were in the
worse condition possible – both summer and winter. Certain roads which have been
metalled by the Fen Reeves should be taken over and maintained by the District
Council.

Wednesday 7th November

1976
Clearing up after a meal and doing the washing up are not the most popular of
tasks. For most people they are just chores. But for the residents of Orchard
House, Sawston, they are some of the things which stops their home from feeling
like an institution. This residential home for the elderly is trying very hard to
give residents a sense of independence and freedom. It is divided up into five
communal flats each shared by eight people with its own kitchen, sitting and dining
rooms. The House is the third of its kind to be built in the area – there are
others at Fulbourn and Toft – and will be opening a day centre for elderly people
to visit during the week to have a bath, see a chiropodist or have their hair done.

1951

The golden jubilee of the Gog Magog Golf Club was celebrated with a dinner at the
Dorothy Café. Guest of honour was Mr Bernard Darwin, the famous authority on the
game who was an early member of the club when an undergraduate at Trinity College.
Recalling his early golfing days he mentioned some of the local courses, including
one on Coldham’s Common, one at Coton and another “somewhere near the Grange Road”.
The Gogs club was founded for the recreation of the senior members of the
University and the first rules provided that the number of undergraduates permitted
to play should not interfere with the convenience and enjoyment of the senior
members of the University.

1926

Two aeroplanes from Duxford Aerodrome came down on Coldham Common, one being
overturned and considerably damaged. One of the machines in a flight of five
passing over Cambridge was observed to be in trouble. The single seater fighter had
been engaged in firing practice at the Wash. He made a good landing, coming to rest
near the bathing-place with just a buckled wheel. A similar machine went to its
assistance but was not so fortunate; it struck some bumpy ground and turned right
over, coming to rest flat on its back with the wheels in the air.

1901

Newmarket RDC discussed the depopulation of East Anglia, which some believe was due
not only to higher wages in towns, but to the neglect of rural teaching in schools.
Every rural school should have gardens so pupils may learn to cultivate their own
allotments. Councillors thought bad housing was the problem; can anyone expect a
girl who has been in service for a year to settle down in a hovel, they refuse to
come back to their homes. They leave the country to go to London, where houses are
worse than here.

Thursday 8th November

1976

As the “soft” civilised world beds down for the winter in cushioned, curtained,
blanketed comfort, Dick Barratt throws another stick on the fire and shrugs off the
cold. He is a gypsy, a Romany, a traveller, a hermit, a woodland philosopher – a
loner. In his permanent but makeshift camp a few yards from the thundering A11
Newmarket-London traffic, he makes only the occasional stranger welcome against a
cacophony of barking dogs. A gentleman of the road in every sense, he doesn’t
steal, beg, live off the state, swear, spit, smell or go unshaven. He has charm,
dignity, a great sense of pride – and trusts no one.

1951

A team of six etymologists was selected for the BBC Programme of “Say The Word” and
coached with practice questions at the Houghton Hall, Cambridge. In the basement an
elaborate apparatus was connected to the G.P.O to relay the programme directly to
the recording chambers of the BBC. A brilliant five-minutes dissertation was
provided by Dylan Thomas, the well-known poet, who was filling the role as visiting
word expert. Bringing piquant Welsh humour to a funereal topic he illuminated his
audience as to the origin of the phrase “Kicking the Bucket”.

1926
How does the cost of living at Cambridge today compare with the pre-war days so far
as an undergraduate is concerned? A writer in the Morning Post says “With an income
of £210 a year, I went down at the end of my fourth year owing a year’s income; and
my debts were accounted for by entertaining on a rather lavish scale during my last
year. I know post-war undergraduates with an income of £250 who went down owing
nothing.” He says that nowhere in the world has the cost of living risen less &
adds that University expenses are surprisingly reasonable.

1901

It being the King’s 60th birthday it was expected that nightfall would be the
occasion for rowdyism and possible an attempt to illuminate Cambridge Market Hill.
The authorities cleared away the stalls, but their action left the historic centre
of all “rags” open and free for the antics of the crowd. For a long time nothing
occurred except the explosion of a few crackers or the discharge of a pistol from a
window overlooking the hill. Large numbers of police were hustled about
considerably, and were compelled to defend themselves, but compared with other
‘rags’, they did not have to exert themselves very much. It was a very tame,
spiritless affair that will doubtless be deemed by the “bloods” to have been a
complete failure, considering that practically no damage to property was done.

Friday 9th November

1976

Wicken’s eldest resident, Mr Bert Bailey, who has been a regular at the Maid’s Head
since the middle of the 1890s, is to have his “long service” at the pub recognised
by the brewery. When he reaches his 90th birthday on Christmas Day, Watney Mann
intends to give him a beer allowance of one free pint a week for the next year. Mr
Bailey started drinking at the pub in 1889 – at the age of three – when he was
taken by his father. He became a regular at the age of nine after leaving school.
In those days beer was 2d a pint, but he was only paid 6d a day for working on a
farm at Padney. He has averaged two pints a day and says this has kept him in good
health.

1951

Over a hundred people assembled at Myers Memorial Hall, Cambridge to hear Mr

Ernest Thompson lecture on “Electronic Communication with the Spirit World” and to
witness a demonstration of the new super-ray apparatus which produced some
astonishing results. Four people were seated round a suspended tube which was
connected to the apparatus. Three of them definitely went into a state of trance.
Mr Thompson altered the action of the rays by pressing some levers with the result
that those in the trance state showed remarkable changes in their behaviour

1926

The Mayor of Cambridge (Ald E.O. Brown) addressed the New Street Men’s Bible Class,
which was the outcome of the Ragged School. He took them back to the old school,
before the new road to Sturton Street was made, and visualise the children that
assembled outside. The teachers were devoted to their work. There were working
parties where shirts were made for the boys and petticoats for the girls. Public
houses were numerous, rows and fights were the order of the day. There were
fighting men prepared to take on all comers, rat catchers, beer tasters. Those days
had passed and gone, and they were benefiting from the seed that was sown by the
devoted teachers many years ago

1901

Cambridge boys in considerable number have been drafted across to France for
service as stable lads in the great racing centre of Chantilly where they are kept
in condition of practical slavery. Some trainers are kind to the lads, but some
know no other means of discipline except brutal severity. They are allowed to grow
up unable to read or write & leave the stables unfit for any occupation. It is the
duty of all who have any influence with lads tempted to go to France to discourage
them as much as possible from doing so.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 12th November

1976

A proposal to set up nursery and crèche facilities within Cambridge University for
the children of its staff and students was “wholly impracticable”, dons were told.
Parents ought to bear the responsibility for their children, “it was not something
for the university or colleges to shoulder”. But trades union officials said that
Pye’s had already provided nursery facilities for their staff. It would provide
refreshment and revitalisation & allow women freed from family ties to become
workers, students and academics.

1951

A report on the provision of electricity to fruit cold stores in the Wisbech

district was discussed by the Eastern Electricity Consultative Council. It was in
the interest of national economy that essential food storage factories should be
allowed a public supply of electricity. This was industrial development and the
supply to cold stores, grain-drying plant and greenhouses used for market gardening
would assist in obtaining increased production from the land.

1926

For two minutes Cambridge stood still in silent homage to the glorious dead.
Everywhere the Great Silence was religiously observed. As the hour approached a
general atmosphere of expectancy enveloped the whole town until just before the
great moment arrived a significant hush seemed to fall, and those in the street
trod softly in fear unless they should disturb the slumbers of the sacred dead. As
the bells of the Catholic church struck the hour a faint boom followed by a
reverberating explosion from the direction of Parker’s Piece announced that the
fateful two minutes had arrived, and traffic and pedestrians came to a simultaneous
standstill.

1901

The London meeting of the Chamber of Agriculture passed a resolution in favour of

giving farm labourers an interest in the land. The country that lost its
agriculture was in a fair way to decay. Mr Tebbutt (St Ives) argued that the system
adopted by the Duke of Bedford, who had built cottages on his estates for the use
of the labourers, might be followed with great advantage. Country lads should spend
the summer on the land and the winter at school.
Tuesday 13th November

1976

Wimpole Hall is to be taken over by the National Trust and opened to the public.
The decision came after a lengthy meeting of Trust officials and their advisers,
ending speculation they might not be able to afford the upkeep of the substantial
house and grounds. Despite a large endowment there is a great deal of work to be
done on the house and park and it will probably be some two years before the Hall
can be opened to the public.

1951

Undergraduate collectors set out to break all previous Poppy Day collection
records. The “ban” on well-known Middle East personalities made no difference to
the high degree of ingenuity shown in extracting money from an ever-willing public.
A seductive harem scene on a lorry featured “the Proctor” smoking surely nothing
less potent than hashish while on the Magdalene college lorry a European “twist”
was given by a “Don” reclining on cushions smoking a “hookah”. A collection of the
weirdest Oriental gentlemen ever preceded the lorry with collecting boxes.

1926

The Rev G.A. Studdert Kennedy, M.C., better known as “Woodbine Willie” spoke at the
great Armistice Day at the Cambridge Guildhall. It was packed for the meeting and
some hundreds were accommodated in the Corn Exchange where they heard the
proceedings by loud speaker. There was a tradition growing up round Armistice Day
which was bound to have a great deal to do with the making or marring of the human
race in the future. War was a great folly, a great madness, a great tragedy. “I
will love the things for which they died; and I will hate with a bitter and lasting
hate the things that brought them to their deaths”, he said.

1901

Members of the Old Chesterton Cricket Club assembled at the Bowling Green and
presented Mr R.H. Lord, president of the club with a handsome inkstand. Mr Lord,
who is leaving the village, promised to present to the club an average bat and also
two gold centre medals, one for the highest individual score during the season and
one for the best average in bowling.

Wednesday 14th November

1976

One-time superstar Billy J. Kramer, who had a string of world-wide hits in the
60’s, walked down Mill Road, Cambridge, looking for a sauna. The more exotic
delights of the street didn’t quite capture his imagination. Later at Romsey Labour
Club his hour-long show combined new material with well-rehearsed medleys of old
hits. By the end of the night people were standing on tables, clapping, stamping
and cheering as he ran for the door to a waiting get-away car

1951
A year ago Cambridge was the scene of an exciting street chase – engineered for the
purposes of a film. “The Scarlet Thread”. Now it is complete and will be shown at
the Victorian Cinema. It has a “cops and robbers” story concerning the theft from a
jeweller’s shop in Sidney Street and a chase across Market Hill. This part was
filmed from the top of the Victoria Cinema. The film was made by the International
Realist Coy and stars Kathleen Byroa, Lawrence Harvey and Sidney Tatler

1926

A deeply moved audience cheered and sang when some forty local heroes of the Great
Retreat, some in uniform and all wearing their medals, lined the stage at the
conclusion of the first performance of “Mons”, the great war film, at the Central
Cinema, Cambridge. It was a memorable scene and showed very clearly how much
Cambridge admired the part they played in the immortal episode. By special
invitation 100 men of the Cambridgeshire Regiment also witnessed the performance.
Some of the Cinema staff saw war service and were displaying their medals.
“Buttons” sold his chocolates and cigarettes wearing two medals won by his father,
who was killed in the war.

1901

The Cambridge Church Army Labour Home was not a lounging place. It was a place
where men worked. Each man won something like 6s per week by his work at the Home,
by which he provided for his lodging and keep while he was there. Five had left for
the pathetic reason that they did not like work. It was a home, not a mere
workhouse, nor a shelter, nor a pastime, where men were taken at their best instead
of at their worst. Its intention was not to draw drunkards, criminals and vagrants
to Cambridge. As it offered work, which the careless vagrant abhorred, the Home’s
negative effect was almost more important that its positive effective.

Thursday 15th November

1976

Prince Philip is to be Cambridge University’s new Chancellor, if dons agreed to his

official nomination. The job has been vacant since the beginning of the year. Now
his name has been put forward any 50 dons have the opportunity to submit an
alternative name. If no further nominations are received the Duke will be declared
Chancellor on December 17th. The announcement ends speculation which has ranged
over almost every eligible name including Lord Ramsey, the retired Archbishop of
Canterbury, and Mr Selwyn Lloyd, the retired speaker of the House of Commons

1951

At the annual dinner of the Cambridgeshire Battalion Home Guard Old Comrades
Association reference was made to the Government’s intention to reform the Home
Guard. Lt-Col Dale said: “When stores and equipment have been allocated volunteers
will be called for and I would ask all you ‘old sweats’ to sharpen up your spikes”.
The Mayor (Ald H.O. Langdon) said: “I do not think the Government could do better
than form the Home Guard on the same basis as before. When it was disbanded we had
a fine body of men capable of defeating any invasion attempt.”

1926

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle presented a “creepy” evening among ectoplasms, spirits, and
the like at St Catharine’s college, Cambridge. The hall was crowded with an
audience of dons and undergraduates to hear the famous novelist talk on “Psychic
Experiences”. He had postponed an earlier visit as the college was in mourning for
its Master & his doctor had ordered him not to come now because of a bad cold. But
he had disobeyed, thinking that if for the second time he did not materialise –
laughter – they would imagine he had no objective existence at all. He showed a
photograph of the crowd round the Cenotaph on Armistice Day; above a small band of
spiritualists hung a vapour comprising faces of young men killed in the war.

1901

Last September the people of Cambridge held a gala day for the lifeboat’s sake.
There was a picturesque procession through the streets, the launching of a lifeboat
in the River Cam, with fireworks and music in the evening. Now we read of the
incident at Caister, when men went out into the raging sea, not only to risk, but
actually to give up their lives in an effort to save others. “Caister men never
turn back”, said the old lifeboat man who gave evidence at the inquest & Cambridge
will rally to the assistance of the women and children whose husbands and fathers
have sealed with their lives their devotion to the lifeboat cause.

Friday 16th November

1976

Nick Barraclough leads one of the most entertaining bands to emerge in Cambridge
for many years. Halfway through the set of Telephone Bill and the Smooth Operators
in Willingham village hall, Nick, a veteran of Cambridge’s folk scene, former
member of the Grand Ole Opry Road Show and with masses of musical experience, is
tall with a mop of curls a moustache and ever-ready grin. On stage he does the
talking, sings and plays guitar, slide dobro, banjo. He also tries to keep the
group disciplined, no easy task. All the music has a good time feel and the group
bubble with good humour.

1951

Four more cases of poliomyelitis have been reported in Cambridge, bringing the
total to eight. Three of the new cases are schoolchildren, the other is an adult.
They have all been reported in the earliest stages of the disease. The four earlier
cases are rapidly getting better

1926

No little excitement was caused when an undergraduate, fully-clothed and wearing

cap and gown, jumped off the Magdalene Bridge into the river, using an umbrella as
a parachute. A film record of the exploit was taken by Lord Burghley, the famous
athlete, who had his baby film camera mounted on the top of his motor car. The
undergraduate, being hard up, had hit on this idea as a way of getting money and
has netted enough to keep him for a week or two in pocket-money

1901

C.P. Tebbutt compared the state of the agricultural labourer with that of 30 years
ago; the modern labourer had double the comforts of former times. There was a
deterioration in the character of the men they now employed. The capable labourers,
willing and able to do all kinds of work, were the older men and it was very rare
to find a young man who really cared much about his work. There was not the same
skill and ability. He advocated a half-time system half-a-day on the school and
half-a-day on the farm – as a means for retaining lads on the land. Young lads were
being kept longer and longer off the farms; when 12 years old they should be
permitted to go to work during the six months of summer and then go to school
during the six months of winter. They would be much better educated and would be
better men on the farm.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 19th November

1976

A gang of art thieves broke into Wimpole Hall and got away with paintings and
porcelain valued at more than £100,000. Under the cover of fog the gang – believed
to be London based – stripped the hall’s ground floor rooms of valuable Joshua
Reynolds paintings and a vast collection of porcelain. Every available Cambridge
detective under their commander Det Supt Keith Hookham went to the scene when
police were alerted by an estate employee. The hall and its contents are valued at
about £2 million. In 1949 it was raided by thieves and a collection of snuff-boxes
used by Rudyard Kipling were stolen

1951

A strong detachment of uniformed and plain clothed police were on duty and a
proctor and two bulldogs were at the entrance at the Labour Hall, Norfolk Street,
Cambridge for the visit of Mrs Monica Felton. When Dr Joseph Needham, chairman of
the Britain-China Friendship Association told hecklers that the Chinese viewed the
dropping of the atom bomb on Japan as encouraging racial hatred. They do not
believe it would have been dropped on a European nation. Mrs Felton described her
visit to Korea where a town of 126,000 people had been ‘systematically destroyed’
by bombing by American jets and told of atrocities “too horrible to report”,
including civilians being buried alive. It was their responsibility to see these
horrors stop and now.

1926

A Cambridge dispenser claimed he used drugs to make up “pick-me-ups” for

undergraduates in the morning. The judge: “Do they require ‘pick-me-ups’ in the
morning?” (Laughter.) “They do things now that we never thought of”. He made them
up out of his head, usually mixing three tinctures. They were drunk in a wineglass
of water. They were used every day during term time. The undergraduates looked
something of a wreck in the morning and owned to having had a little refreshment at
night. (Laughter.)

1901

Mr C.P. Tebbutt has abandoned the half-day system as a solution of the rural
problem. His new scheme is one of six months at school, alternated with six months
of farm work. The obvious criticism is that neither the schooling nor the learning
of farm work are likely to be efficient. He thinks that schooling makes young
people dissatisfied with rural life and implants a desire to be off to the towns.
There is only one remedy for rural depopulation: it is to make country life more
attractive

Tuesday 20th November

1976

Val Doonican, Harry Secombe, The Spinners, Julian Bream, Stephane Grappelli, Los
Paraguayos – all of these artists have appeared in Cambridge within a year. All
were presented by the City Amenities and Recreation Department, working under
director John Wilkinson. Every concert cost city ratepayers 6p per seat for every
person attending, but two years ago the figure was 50p-per-seat. Sales for Val
Doonican were disappointing and a loss of £1,100.83 was incurred but The Spinners
drew a full house of 1,500 to the Sports Hall for the first time and a profit of
£360.09 resulted. It now provides Cambridge with an auditorium large enough for
bigger artists to draw sufficient numbers of people to pay their fees.

1951

When she bought a sheet of stamps from Miss Cora Simpson, Lady Irwin became the
first person to use Newmarket’s magnificent new post office – the most up-to-date
in the country. The throwing open of the doors brought to an close its ten year
temporary use of the King Edward VII Memorial Hall following the destruction of the
old High Street building by an enemy bomb in 1941. At the ceremony a memorial
plaque was dedicated to Miss Q. Kerry and Mr A.F. Barnes who were killed on duty
when it was bombed. The telegraphing room was particularly mentioned since in race
weeks more telegrams were handled n Newmarket than at any other place in the
region.

1926

When the new Festival Theatre in Newmarket Road, Cambridge, opens on Monday a fresh
phase in the history of the Drama in England will have commenced. Without
destroying the principle of the old Theatre Royal, with its memories of the old
Regency days, the promoters of this new venture have so adapted the building that
it is the most modern and up-to-date in England. The new stage gradually merges
into the stalls by a series of shallow steps, behind is a revolving middle stage
backed by a raised and sliding backstage with the cylindrical cyclorama as its
background. The lighting will be a special feature and the theatre will be warmed
by a central heating system.

1901

One of the largest companies ever seen at a boxing display was present at the
assault-at-arms in Cambridge Corn Exchange. A ten-round contest between two
promising local lads, W. Shipp and Bill Topper created a great amount of interest
and so gamely did they box that the audience was roused to enthusiasm. A powerful
left-hander flush in the face so dazed Shipp that he caved in and Topper was
returned an easy winner

Wednesday 21st November

1976

Planners agreed a new policy for Papworth St Agnes – one of the smallest villages
in Cambridgeshire. It has only one road in and out, no shop, no pub, no bus
service, no vicar of its own, no school, no children of school age – and very
little crime. Most of it is owned by Mr Henry St John Sperling who, as lord of the
manor, patron of the church, chairman of the parish meeting and local councillor,
has been trying to prevent the village becoming run down while preserving its
unspoilt character. The new policy aims to inject new life, restoring and improving
the church, manor house, old bakehouse and two thatched cottages; but the design
and materials of new houses must harmonise with existing buildings

1951

University “Freshmen” were amongst a crowd who gathered in the Police Station yard
for a sale of unclaimed bicycles. Highest price, £5.10s. was fetched by a gents
three-speed racing-tourer cycle; lowest was a lady’s “upright” fitted with a
child’s seat which went for 7s. 6d. One cycle originally belonged to a Clare
College undergraduate but was stolen. It was traced to an army camp at St Neots and
returned. Later it was lost again and abandoned at Garret Hostel Bridge. This time
the frame was broken and the owner declined to claim it. It sold for 30s.

1926

The County Agricultural Organiser gave an interesting lecture on the destruction of

rats at Lt Shelford village hall. People did not pay enough attention to the rat
menace. There were far too many rats about Cambridge for his liking and if they
held a Little Shelford Rat Week it would do a world of good. Everybody should kill
rats whenever they got the change. If each person killed one a week it would be
doing some good.

1901

A spirit is unrest is rife in the parish of Histon. Unfortunately for the work of
the church there are two distinct parties, or factions, and as a consequence, any
efforts made in connection with the church are seriously hampered. The vicar is
endeavouring to introduce ritual into the services; there is a dispute over a
certain seat in the chancel, the bellringers and choir have struck and some of the
sidesmen have refused to carry the alms-bag. On Sunday a number of worshippers
deliberately walked out of church

Thursday 22nd November

1976

Members of South Cambs Planning Committee spent more than an hour debating how they
could make their meetings shorter. There have been so many applications for
development that meetings have been going on from 10am to 2pm. Matters came to a
head at the last meeting which went on for 6½ hours. “Meetings could be curtailed
if members weren’t so verbose”, said Coun Hilda Hatley of Waterbeach. But the
chairman, Coun Joe Brown, said he had no power to stop a full discussion not would
he want to stifle debate. It was agreed to stop councillors repeating themselves.

1951

Agriculture has suffered a severe loss in the passing of Mr Samuel Owen Webb at his
home at Streetly Hall, West Wickham. He was grandson of Jonas Webb to whom a statue
was erected in the Corn Exchange. He was the founder and first president of the
Cambridgeshire Farmers’ Federation. In the 1914-18 was he was appointed chairman of
the War Agricultural Committee and again during the second war. A keen showman he
helped re-form the Cambs Agricultural Society which became one of the largest shows
in the country

1926

Many people have asked how it is that the CDN is able to get later news in its
columns than can be obtained in the London evening papers sold at the same time on
the streets of Cambridge. This is due to the Creed System of news-getting, by
private wire installed between our offices at Cambridge and the Press Association
Offices in Fleet Street. The news is collected, sub-edited and sent to the
telegraph room where an operator transfers the scrip on to a paper slip in morse
for transmission. At the CDN offices a Creed receiver transfers the signals on to a
paper tape which passes through a printer and is transposed into script at an
average speed of about 80 words per minute. The operators at each end of the wire
are able to talk to each other in morse for the purpose of queries.

1901

Mr Benstead of Swaffham Prior asked Newmarket RDC to take over parts of the road
which have been metalled by the Fen Reeves. Some councillors spoke in opposition.
Mr Tebbitt said there was pretty much 100 miles of such roads in Soham and he would
move that Soham Fen roads be served likewise. Mr Munsey said he would do the same
as regards Fordham. It was decided to refer the matter to a committee to thoroughly
consider and report.

Friday 23rd November

1976

Litlington primary school, housed in wartime Nissen huts, is so damp that children
and staff are running the risk of electric shocks if water penetrates the wiring
system. A scathing report produced by the PTA claims that the children are probably
sitting on diluted urine-soaked floors to change their shoes because the changing
area is a continuation of the lavatory floors. The huts have been classified as
temporary since 1950. “Not far from the school pigs are being housed in an
identical building”, it says. At present there are 82 children at the school which
is bleak and unfriendly and away from new housing developments.

1951

A further 18 Cambridge firemen were suspended after refusing to obey orders to

carry out routine maintenance. They stood outside the station in case there were
any fire calls or other emergencies. The men are demonstrating in an attempt to get
equal pay with the police force. At present they get 7s.6d. a week less than a
policewoman and 35s. less than a policeman, receiving 1s 8½d [EIGHTPENCE HALFPENNY]
per hour for an 80-hour week

1926

A Kedington farmer was summonsed for the recovery of wages due for harvest work.
The men knew they were to be paid on acreage but they did not know how much per
acre until they had finished. All they had to do was the carting and that took 14
days. The usual amount for a man to take at harvest in the way of carting was 30 to
35 acres but in this case they averaged only 19½ [AND A HALF] acres for which they
were paid £6 17s which was 7s per acre for with 6d extra. If a man was not employed
during the whole of the harvest period on harvest work he was only entitled to a
portion of the bonus.

1901

Mr W.B. Redfern enters today upon his twentieth year of theatrical management in
Cambridge. He is a personal friend of Sir Henry Irving and all the leaders of the
theatrical world. He has been instrument in eradicating prejudice against the
theatre in Cambridge and in vindicating the possibilities of the drama in the moral
elevation of the people. In managing a theatre in a University town he had peculiar
difficulties to overcome but he is entitled to congratulation on all that he has
achieved. . The New Theatre is one of the best in Britain

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 26th November

1976

The former Liberal Party leader, Mr Jeremy Thorpe, spoke to shoppers near the
Market Square, Cambridge above the noise of Conservative electioneering from the
next-door stand. He arrived to join the Liberal candidate, Dr Michael O’Loughlin in
addressing people at the corner of the Guildhall. A few yards away the Conservative
candidate, Mr Robert Rhodes James broadcast his message through a megaphone. The
Labour candidate, Mr Martin Smith, remained away from the shouting match – meeting
people further along Lion Yard

1951

There is an air of excitement at the Perse School for Girls as their new hall is
growing day-by-day in the school grounds to replace the ramshackled wooden building
– two Army huts knocked into one – which has served the school since 1918. The
Headmistress, Miss M.A. Scott says that many responsible for the building have
family connections. It will not only be a place for morning assembly and prayers
but will be used for various lessons & for recreation during the dinner hour The
school is working hard to help pay for it and girls are doing all sorts of odd
jobs, including running errands, baby sitting, darning socks and stockings, washing
up and saving bus fares by walking to school.

1926

Addenbrooke's Hospital has launched an appeal for funds to start a scheme of radium
treatment, which is invaluable for the treatment of malignant diseases but cannot
be generally administered because of the very high cost. At present they have to
pay for the hire of a supply of radium and apparatus when it was needed. About £900
is required to obtain a minimum supply and the necessary apparatus. Once obtained
it could be let out on hire and produce an income. It would be the most valuable
gift the hospital could receive. Cambridgeshire is not a rich county but there are
people rich enough and beneficent to make the gift.

1901

The 32nd anniversary of the Theatre Royal Barnwell Mission, Newmarket Road,
Cambridge was celebrated. Three private boxes had been prepared for the comfort of
those who attended the meetings, the building frequently containing over 1,000. If
the theatre had been altered when it came into their possession it would not have
done a tenth of the good it had done. By keeping it in the original form they get
people who would not attend an ordinary place of worship. They had introduced
lantern services, which had caused prejudice, but people were very nervous about
any new form of service.

Tuesday 27th November

1976

Eighty couples took a stroll down memory lane in Cambridge, many travelling
hundreds of miles for the occasion. All had one thing in common – they were married
at the United Reformed Church in Cherry Hinton Road. The grand get-together formed
part of the church’s golden jubilee celebrations. The “earliest” married couple
there were Arthur “Snowy” Chapman and his wife Irene who were married in March
1933. He had been a salesman at Laurie and McConnals and they travelled to the
service from their home near Nottingham

1951

Foxton station became a film set on Friday afternoon and the 2.08 pm Cambridge to
London express was the chief “prop”. Instead of making its usual straight through
run the train stopped at the station so that a scene could be shot for a
documentary film being made for the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company. It tells the story
of a young apprentice officer in the Merchant Navy and his life on an oil tanker.
Taking the role is Roger Stokes of Foxton Hall who is actually an apprentice
officer, and the scene shows him saying farewell to his parents as he leaves for
London. The film will be presented in connection with recruiting drives.

1926

The Cambridge Electricity Supply Company is one of the oldest in the country,
having been formed in 1892. It was the first in the world to adopt condensing steam
turbines, now used everywhere in all large electricity generating stations. A
suitable site for the generating station had to be found where large quantities of
water for condensing were available and as the Corporation had insisted this should
be within the Borough the site on Quayside was chosen. By 1900 the site was too
cramped and is now somewhat obsolete. They must decide whether to provide an up-to-
date generating station or purchase a bulk supply from elsewhere.

1901

A breach of promise case heard that when the parties first met the defendant was a
Freshman in Caius College with an income of £1,000 a year which would be
substantially increased under the will of an aunt. The couple became exceedingly
affectionate and entered into an engagement. But then in August he wrote a letter
saying that owing to the unsatisfactory state of his affairs it would be better for
her to release him from his promise of marriage. In October he sent a telegram,
“Married today”. She was awarded damages of £3,000

Wednesday 28th November

1976

There are now more than 1,000 Italians in Cambridge; the largest immigrant group in
the city. Apart from a few prisoners-of-war who stayed on after 1945, the majority
arrived in the 50s and 60s. Many have earned enough to start their own businesses
and establish their own homes. The head of one Italian family says that with 88
hours a week spent on running a continental corner shop and bakery there is not
much time for family or social life. He emigrated from Naples in 1961 to achieve a
standard of living in which he could raise a family. His first job was in a college
kitchen but he soon launched his own business from a bed-sit room supplying bread
and cakes to the growing Italian communities from Nottingham to London and Ipswich.

1951

Fines totalling £20 were imposed upon a woman stallholder summoned for overcharging
for nylons. She sold a pair of fully fashioned nylon hose stamped with the words
“15 dernier” at 17s.11d, a price exceeding the maximum retail price, at Midsummer
Fair, Cambridge. A housewife said she paid 10s 11d for a pair of nylons and had
been told they were not perfect – one being longer than the other. When she got
home she found they were both laddered. She exchanged them for another pair, which
cost an additional 7s and these also had ladders in them. The nylon quality was
good but she did not like paying 17s.11d for them and she made a complaint to the
Price Regulation Committee

1926

The Cambridge Central Conservative Club in Market Passage was gutted by fire in the
early hours of the morning. There were a large number of trade premises nearby and
the task of saving the club, with flames nearly 100 feet high, appearing a hopeless
one the Fire Brigade concentrated on confining the conflagration to the one
building. Had there been a strong wind a centre of shopping would have been
destroyed. The Central Hall, which had been booked for many social events for
months ahead, suffered severely. The billiards room, which contained four splendid
tables also suffered considerably; two of the tables fell through the floor. The
club was opened in February 1888

1901

The funeral of Mr C.F.G. Stanhope, who was better known by the stage name of Mr
Charles Gervase, under which he played the part of Harry Bronson in Mr W. Greet’s
“Belle of New York” Company, took place at Mill Road Cemetery. The deceased actor
contracted typhoid fever whilst at Cambridge and died at Addenbrooke's Hospital.
The internment took place in the presence of a large number of persons who showed
deep sympathy with the mourners.

Thursday 29th November

1976

Cambridge University’s most distinguished cycle stand bears the university’s

ancient coat of arms and is reserved for just one bicycle – the Vice Chancellor’s
own machine. Miss Rosemary Murray insists that the quickest way to travel on
official business around the city is on two wheels rather than four. But she found
herself squeezed out of the few cycle racks provided at the Old Schools. With an
increasing number of staff cycles being pushed between executive cars in the
courtyard drivers began muttering about damaged paintwork. So Miss Murray was given
a “V-C-Only” cycle stand well clear of parked cars, doorways and other
obstructions.

1951

Problems likely to arise in the Eastern Region if three atom bombs were dropped in
London were discussed at a conference. It was presumed that all reception areas
used for evacuees from London were full and that the homeless and a number of
panic-stricken evacuees were heading this way. Representatives examined how Essex
and Herts would deal with the control, accommodation, feeding & transport problems.
It was explained that while this was taking place certain other large towns in the
region were being subjected to bombing with heavy explosives and incendiaries.

1926

A Dullingham youth pleaded guilty to a charge of assault. Complainant said he was

driving at night when the defendant, who was standing in the road, fired a pistol
in his face. The powder scorched his face all down the side and he was obliged to
pull up his car because he could not see. The wad of the pistol hit him in the face
and was like a lot of hot pins going into his face. The lad said he fired the
pistol for a lark so that the sound of the revolver would make the motor driver
think he had a burst tyre. The pistol was confiscated.

1901

The most militant of religious organisation had a field day at Cambridge on Sunday.
Mrs Bramwell Booth, of the Salvation Army, addressed three large meetings at the
Guildhall. “Fire a volley” was the command of a senior officer as Mrs Booth mounted
the platform. A waving of handkerchiefs, a clapping of hands, a deep sound from the
big drum, was the response. She is not a great woman speaker, but she has
earnestness & spoke for nearly an hour. She is not sweet-throated but her manner
impels one to listen.

Friday 30th November

1976

Since 1919 Miss Betty Macleod has run the 1st Cambridge Brownies, believed to be
the oldest pack in the world; and she still runs it with a Brownie hut at the
bottom of her garden and meetings in her own home when wet. The number of meetings
she has missed can be counted on the fingers of one hand. But now the national
headquarters has issued an edict that all guiders must give up their warrants on
reaching the age of 65 – which counts out 79-year-old Miss Macleod. But before she
hands over the pack she is organising a diamond jubilee party. The first meeting
took place on January 3rd 1917 in Downing College; it was started by Miss M.A.
Gaskell who in 1911 pioneered the Guide movement in Cambridge by founding the 1st
Cambridge Guide Company.

1951

The Bishop of Ely gave encouraging news that the Diocesan Finance Board was going
to make every effort to attain a minimum stipend of £500 for clergy, after
deduction of dilapidation charge & rates on the parsonage house. But, Dr Wynn
warned, success would depend very largely on the way in which the parishes respond
to the increased quota next year. “Unfortunately, the stipends of the clergy are
not the only financial problems that we have to face”, he said.

1926

Sir – At my home we have adopted the penny-in-the-slot system for the use of gas.
One would think that, after placing a penny in the meter, we had fully paid for the
gas to be consumed until the light fails. According to the collector it is not so,
for having taken what he finds in the meter he demands two or three shillings more.
This appears to me to be a slip-shot way of doing business and I hope gas consumers
will raise a strong protest – “A Gas Consumer”. Sometimes the users of the penny-
in-the-slot machine get some pennies returned – Ed.

1901

A Chesterton lady, Miss A. Masterson of Humberstone Road, was among a number of

passengers who underwent an alarming experience while travelling by the Central
London Railway, which is better known as the “Twopenny Tube”. A train was suddenly
stopped as it was about to enter Marble Arch Station. The tunnel became filled with
dense and suffocating smoke. Several ladies fainted and others became hysterical.
People were rushing pell-mell from the front of the train, scrambling over seats to
get out of danger. Then the lights went out. It was twenty minutes before the train
moved back slowly. There was a terrible smell of burning flesh and it was learned
that a gentleman had fallen in front of the train and been crushed to death.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 3rd December

1976

The continuing problem of some Elsworth council house tenants who have to use
buckets for lavatories has prompted their parish council to back their demands for
improvements. Most of the pre-war homes in Brockley Road and Smith Street have no
lavatories and no hot water. There are about 16 houses altogether occupied by more
than 50 people. The tenants have been campaigning for improvements for years and
when sewerage mains work was completed recently they thought modernisation work
would begin. So far nothing has happened and councillors fear that work may be
postponed again because of the present financial crisis.

1951

An army “Z” Reserve man who refused to undergo a medical examination, refused to
pay two £5 fines at Cambridge court and was sent to prison for one month. He had
been in the Royal Engineers and was one of a group of men who could be recalled for
training. But he told magistrates: “I am not going to serve in the army again under
any circumstances whatever. If I am called up next year or any other year I shall
still do the same thing again”

1926

The official testing took place of the bridges along the new road through Coe Fen,
The Fen Causeway. They are Snobbs’ Bridge, Flood Water Bridge and the River Bridge.
The last is the most important and five steam rollers and one steam tractor,
together weighing 63 tons were driven across it, passing each other, thus making 63
tons rolling weight, equivalent to about 100 tons dead weight. The Cambridge
Borough Surveyor and councillors boarded a punt and viewed the deflectometer under
the bridge, which gave a satisfactory reading. The foundations consist of 100 piles
of 40 feet length, weighing about four tons each

1901

A hawker from Chelmsford was charged by Borough Green Parish Council with drawing
horses on the village green, in contravention of the bye-laws. The clerk said he
saw 15 horses on the green and drew attention to a notice prohibiting vans or
horses from standing or staying there. The men refused to give their names. A
policeman uncovered a name on the van but there is such a thing as putting a
person’s horses in another person’s van and there was not enough evidence to
convict. The proper thing would be to impound the animals. They would then soon
find the owner

Tuesday 4th December

1976
Parents with children at several small village schools have lost their fight to
stop them from being closed when Cambridgeshire County Council backed closure
because they are no longer a viable proposition. The schools are at Madingley,
Ashley, Kirtling, Chippenham, Wood Ditton, Hemingford Abbots and Coldham near
Wisbech. Some have fewer than 30 pupils and are housed in outdated buildings.
Councillor Margaret Shaw said “Village schools are the heart of our county”. But
hard decisions must be taken in times of financial difficulty. The Council also
agreed that more than 70 places it provides at the Perse and Kimbolton schools
should in future be ‘assisted; and not free

1951

It was an affair of honour, to be settled with pistols, that drew a crowd of

spectators to Trinity Backs. It arose when a letter written by a third-year Trinity
undergraduate to a Girton College law student was intercepted by another Trinity
man and the challenge was issued. Half of London’s national newspapers got wind of
the duel and two reporters laid an all-night siege to the contestants’ rooms. Early
this morning the protagonists slipped through the cordon of pressmen who waited for
the duellists to appear. On Trinity bridge the crowd drifted away until all that
were left were the newsreel cameraman taking shots of their journalistic colleagues
waiting for the duel that did not take place.

1926

Ely Guardians heard a complaint from a vagrant of a shortage of accommodation in

the casual ward of the workhouse which was full up with Beet Sugar Factory
employees who paid 1s per night. There was no registered common lodging house in
Ely but the workhouse was for destitute people and not for those with money in
their pockets. But some of them concealed what money they had. If they filled the
casual wards with people with money what were they going to do with the poor chaps
who really were down and out? Some of the casuals were looking for work. If the
Beet Factory did not take them on they would only go on the land and take jobs from
agricultural labourers. Last year there were 60 or 70 living at the Jam Factory.
The matter was left to the discretion of the Master

1901

Chesterton RDC considered the provision of an adequate water supply for Cottenham
to remedy the unsatisfactory system of carrying water round in a water cart. It was
one of the largest villages, with a population of 2,500 and should have a supply
commensurate with its needs. They regretted that a scheme proposed six months ago
had broken down and wished it could now be carried out. A meeting favoured spending
£20 in erecting a standpipe at the end of Broad Lane supplied with water from a
well on the premises of the Crown Trading Company, but this was too small of make
it pay as a private enterprise.

Wednesday 5th December

1976

There were three winners in the Cambridge Parliamentary By-election – the weather,
apathy and Kojak. Together they succeeded in setting up the lowest turn-out in
Cambridge this century. The biggest disappointment was that of the Liberal
candidate, Dr Michael O’Loughlin who had hoped to take second place behind the
Conservative, Robert Rhodes James. Labour officials were saying throughout the
campaign that there was little chance of success, the Independent candidate was
disappointed with his vote and the National Front result was a humiliation for
them, getting less than 2% [PER CENT] of the total vote. The only person not
surprised by his lowly result was the Science Fiction Looney Party candidate.

1951

“A fine and magnificent home” was how Glanely Rest, Exning, was described when Mr
G. Gibson opened it as a home for old people – a “stately home” in a country park
he had presented outright in memory of his uncle, Lord Glanely, to give comfort to
old people “in the evening of their years”. “Its beautiful” commented one resident,
Mr David Palethorpe, a Newmarket sportsman of over 80 who is in the same room as
Major F. Bird. He stores his belongings in his own cupboard and has the books he
loves around him. The room is brightly decorated with warm, gay curtains and a
window that looks out on to the spacious park. Caring for them is the matron, Mrs
Rachel Agnes Byrne and the residents know they will enjoy peace and security in a
delightful country house that is a real home.

1926

Cambridge people who have relatives abroad will be interested in the scheme for
sending Christmas cards by cable which is being “pushed” this year. Originally
inaugurated by the Eastern Telegraph Company they are now becoming the rule.
Greetings may be sent to South Africa, Australia, China, Japan and South America.
The minimum charges are for messages of ten words, the rate being 5s to Australia.
The telegrams will be delivered on seasonably-designed forms.

1901

A Saffron Walden doctor was summonsed for not notifying the Medical Officer of
Health that a woman and two children were suffering from an infectious disease.
There had been a serious epidemic of scarlet fever and it was essential to stamp it
out. The symptoms were a sore throat, sickness and a rash and if all were together
an ordinary medical man would have no difficulty in diagnosing the case. But where
they had not all these factors it was absolutely difficult to say whether it was
scarlet fever or not.

Thursday 6th December

1976

With its charming thatched church and peaceful atmosphere, Rampton gives the
impression that nothing ever happens there. Not so, says the Rev Degwell Thomas.
Only this week a car left the road and destroyed the bus shelter and before that
another car demolished 12 yards of the rectory wall. Last Friday a fire almost
destroyed part of the rectory and the dry summer has produced a three-inch crack in
the east end of the chancel wall of the church. One of the new residents told the
Rector “This is the most exciting place I have ever lived in”

1951

Suggestions that isolation hospitals should be used to accommodate chronic sick

cases were put forward at a Hospital meeting at Ely. The White House, Eaton Socon,
was to be closed next March & some of the chronic sick cases there came from Kent
whose own institutions had been destroyed in the war. In this region we were short
of beds for the elderly. The situation was really pathetic. Three people had
applied to the maternity hospital to see if accommodation could be provided for
their elderly relatives. It would be better if isolation hospitals could take some
of the old people. But if there is an epidemic what are we going to do if these
hospitals are full of other cases?
1926

Two houses were destroyed as a result of a fire which broke out at Willingham. A
young man named Cecil Denson noticed a fire at the back of a house in Church Street
occupied by Walter Munns and found that a beam of an outhouse and the thatch was on
fire. The alarm was raised and the occupants taken to safety, some of the furniture
also being removed. Willingham Volunteer Fire Brigade turned out but soon the house
was ablaze, as was another thatched house next door occupied by Mrs Hopkins, a
widow.

1901

The Church Street Mission is quite distinct from the Cambridge Female Refuge but is
auxiliary to it. Miss Elsden walks about the street at night and is able to
persuade women who have gone astray to go with her to the Mission House and stay in
safety for a few days until they can be received into the Refuge. Sometimes women
come voluntarily and sometimes they are brought by the police. She also provides an
escort for female prisoners on their discharge, meeting them at the prison and
escorting them to the railway station, thus protecting them from evil influences in
the town at the first moment of their freedom.

Friday 7th December

1976

The curator of the Cambridge Folk Museum, Miss Enid Porter, is retiring this week
because of ill-health, after running it single-handed for about 29 years. At the
moment she is in hospital and the museum is closed. Since she took charge of the
museum in 1947 its popularity and size have grown considerably. It was started
following an exhibition of folk items by the Women’s Institute in 1936. Cambridge
Rotarians launched an appeal for a folk museum and eventually the present premises
in Castle Street were acquired. Miss Porter has been a prolific author, writing
books on Cambridgeshire folklore and customs and contributing articles to regional
magazines.

1951

Cambridge city council has opposed a suggestion by the Ministry of Transport that
the number of pedestrian crossings should be considerably reduced. They heard the
Divisional Engineer was prepared to authorise 25 uncontrolled crossings and
reconsider another six used by school children, but he was unable to agree with the
retention of 14 others. Protests have been received from the Cambridge Accident |
prevention Council, the National Council of Woman and the Morley Infants’ & Junior
Schools Parents’ Association. Councillors agreed to appoint a deputation to meet
the Minister.

1926

There have been complaints of certain effluent entering the parish ditches at
Histon and Impington and Messrs Chivers had approached Cambridge Borough Council to
draw up a scheme whereby sewage could be taken by means of pipes to the Cambridge
sewage farm. The parish council had not been asked to be parties and it raised the
question whether they should work jointly with Chivers. It would cost a
considerable amount of money. There had been talk of Histon and Impington being
taken over by the Borough of Cambridge. If so the cost would be borne by the whole
of the people in it, to the great advantage of the village. Extensive building was
going on and it would not be long before they built up to the boundary.
1901

The wood paving of the main street of Cambridge from the station to the post office
has now been completed and last evening the men engaged in the work had a dinner at
the Red Lion. When the mind is carried back to the days of the Long Vacation when
St Andrew’s Street was so decidedly ‘up’, some impatience may be forgiven to
shopkeepers and householders who were anxious that normal conditions should be
restored. Credit should be given to the police for the excellent way the traffic
was regulated during the ‘upheaval’. There was not a single accident.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 10th December

1976

More than 1,000 jobs in the Cambridge area have been saved with the supply of £3
million of public money to the Cambridge Instrument Company, following a £1.85
million trading loss. The company has suffered serious financial troubles since it
was set up after Metals Research Ltd of Melbourn took over Cambridge Scientific
Instruments Ltd 15 months ago. The company is one of the leading British
manufacturers of scientific instruments with opposition coming from Japan, the USA
and West Germany. It is to retain this technology in Britain that the Government
has put up the new money

1951

Details of Cambridge’s civil defence plan – a scheme in which there is a place now
for “every man who can use a spade and every woman who can make a cup of tea” -
were disclosed by the city’s Civil Defence Officer at the weekly luncheon of the
Rotary Club in the Dorothy Café. The most likely attack was by bombers carrying
high explosive and incendiaries – an attack by no means rendered obsolete by the
Atom bomb. If areas of the continental coast were occupied we would also be within
rocket range. Chemical and biological warfare had to be considered including the
use of a nerve gas absorbed by the skin. A network of wardens’ posts would be
established. “We think that by dispersal of our forces we can have some intact when
they are most wanted and can bring aid to any stricken area with the least possible
delay”, he said

1926

Ely ratepayers association discussed traffic in the streets which is becoming

absolutely dangerous. One-way traffic was not nearly so necessary as in towns such
as Cambridge and there would be opposition. It would be very difficult to manage.
The best way was to have special parking places for the buses where they could drop
off passengers. The problem would be solved if buses were parked in the Palace
Green. There have been as many as 25 different vehicles in Market Street and 14
cars in the Cattle Market. Mr Rickwood said the trouble was from people putting
their carts in the main streets; they were often left outside public houses from 10
am to 4 pm and in Brays Lane it was nearly impossible to pass.

1901

The arrest was reported from Queenstown of a Cambridge man on a warrant charging
him with felony. Detective-Sergt Bryne effected the arrest on the outward-bound
American steamer. The accused was travelling as a saloon passenger under an assumed
name. As is well-known the man held a position of trust at Messrs Foster’s bank and
was actively identified with politics and parochial movements in the Abbey Ward.
His disappearance from Cambridge has been the subject of many rumours. Detective
Marsh has been sent to Queenstown to bring the accused to Cambridge.

Tuesday 11th December

1976

The Cambridge College of Further Education could gradually die a slow death if all
it is offered are an improved staffroom and lavatories. This is the fear of
teachers bitterly disappointed at the latest proposals for the future of the
college. Staff were hoping for a new college on the Long Road site in place of the
decrepit York Street buildings – an old church hall with prefabricated classrooms
across the road. It is one of the college’s two centres – the other, Young Street,
a more modern building is a five-minute walk away. In the windy, rainy autumn
weather staff and students get wet every hour when they have to change classrooms.
The college is proud of the results it achieves with some of the less academic
young people, reaching higher standards than the national average in the 11 O-
levels it offers.

1951

Cambridge at the moment has no legal pedestrian crossings but the Town Clerk (Mr
Alan Swift) has appealed to motorists and others to observe them as before. They
will become legal again when they have been striped. The question of legality had
been raised during discussion of the latest position in the “battle of the
crossings” – resulting from the wish of the Council to retain more crossings than
the Ministry of Transport had suggested under its new policy. In view of the
negotiations no crossings have yet been painted.

1926

Fen Causeway, the new and important link between Newnham and the rest of Cambridge,
was opened by the Mayor. The bridge and its approaches were gaily decorated with
bunting and presented a colourful scene. The project of relieving Silver Street
traffic had started as long ago as 1904 and discussion had gone on for nearly 20
years before the Town Council approved the plan in 1923. Nine proposals had been
put forward and had it not been for the urgency of the unemployment question the
same position would have existed today, only instead of nine there might have been
nineteen different schemes (Laughter)

1901

A little more than a month ago a churchwarden, Sunday School superintendent,

president of a local political club, honoured and respected by fellow tradesmen,
left Cambridge. On Saturday evening he returned, a prisoner in the hands of the
police. The transformation was startling. The effect was seen by few people; the
cause was known to many. The prisoner, who arrived on that dull, depressing evening
was to answer a serious charge of embezzlement. Now he wears an abstracted look but
the almost white hair, curling slightly at the neck, the white moustache and long
beard, and the portly figure are just the same.

Wednesday 12th December

1976

The Cambridge Symphony Orchestra concert turned from a potential flop to a solid
hit when music-lovers rallied round to save it from disaster on Saturday. The
concert seemed doomed to lose more than £2,000 but with nearly 1,000 people
attending they could just break even. The managing director of the non profit-
making orchestra, Mr Jonathan Wearn said: “Beforehand were all very despondent and
our guest soloist and conductor, Mr Tamas Vasary, was doubtful about confirming his
March booking. Afterwards he said it was definitely on. We were so encouraged by
the tremendous response and the way people rallied round at the last minute that we
shall continue our links with the city”. He admitted that administratively the
organisation still had some problems to sort out but most of the concerts have been
successful financially.

1951

Waterbeach R.A.F. station is the scene of a “scramble” by Meteors which is shown in

the “short” film called “Wing to Wing” at the Regal Cinema. The rapid take-off – a
Waterbeach speciality – makes an impressive shot. The film gives a vivid impression
of present and future aircraft of the R.A.F. Its “stars” are the Canberra and
Valiant jet bombers, together with the Swift jet fighter.

1926

A Haslingfield youth, serving an apprenticeship at Messrs King and Harper’s,

Cambridge, had a miraculous escape when a car in which he was seated fell 19 feet
from a lift in the garage to the concrete floor beneath. The lad, who had little
experience of driving, got into a light car which was in the lift and endeavoured
to reverse it in order to park it on one of the upper floors. Instead of putting it
into reverse, he put the gear in the first speed and the car, shooting forward,
turned a complete somersault, crashing on to the concrete floor below, with the
driver underneath. The car was badly damaged and the youth taken to Addenbrooke's
Hospital.

1901

A sadder sight that that which was witnessed at the police court of Cambridge this
forenoon it would be hard to imagine. An old man, the greater part of whose life
has been lived in Cambridge, a burgess, well known and esteemed, who had mingled
actively in the public life of the town, the friend of almost everyone who was
present in the court, stood in the dock, charged with embezzlement. Pitiful it was,
and the pity of it came home to every heart there. The court was full, but there
were few of the loungers from street corners who resort to the Police Court as a
place of entertainment; they were mostly well-known residents of Cambridge.

Thursday 13th December

1976

The Cambridge Scouts’ shop in Perne Road celebrated 50 years of existence. Known
first as the Equipment Store it opened in a rifle range half way up the stairs at
the old Grafton Street headquarters on 13th December 1926. The shop’s manager, Mr
Kenneth North, took over in 1934. He remained when the shop moved temporarily to
Russell Street and then to the new Scout headquarters in 1956. Mr John Chambers has
been associated with it since he joined as a boy in 1940 & Roger Woollard, Scout
leader running the 13th Cambridge Scouts Group, also helps out

1951

Reminiscences of the First World War when the Star Brewery, Cambridge, was manned
almost entirely by women were shared by Major Freeman at the celebration of the
firm’s diamond jubilee anniversary. When he joined in 1903 there were 30 public
houses on the Newmarket Road. It had come into being in 1891; in 1935 it became a
subsidiary of the Tollemache Company and recently the firm of Messrs Whitmore, in
St Andrew’s Hill, had been acquired. The brewery had stabling for 25 horses up to
1935 when motor transport was first introduced. It had been a great success and was
now considered to be the county’s “star” brewery.

1926

Sir – As a member of the Cambridge branch of the College of Nursing I should like
to say a few words against the profession being organised on trades union lines.
Nursing is not a trade, it is a profession. It seems the thin edge of the wedge for
discontent, strikes and everything that undermines the proper spirit of the work.
Nursing would become a “mundane job” instead of a “noble profession” and so all the
greatness would be lost out of the service – D. Clarke, Royston

1901

Following a dispute over the election of a Chairman Haddenham parish council

brought an action against its Clerk to recover the possession of certain books
relating to the affairs of the Parish Council. The Judge gave judgement for the
clerk; he found he had not been called upon by a legally-called meeting of the
Parish Council and when that meeting was called he trusted the clerk would obey his
orders. He awarded him costs and held that these should be paid by the council. He
gave theml the right to appeal against his decision.

Friday 14th December

1976

For the first time in two years Pye is going to see its television and radio
division make money, but final details of the deal in which Philips Industries will
take it over have still to be settled. Jobs are reasonably safe despite the selling
off of the radio, television and audio side of its activities: Philips will take on
those still working at factories at Lowestoft and King’s Lynn. It is prepared to
pay hard cash for companies whose losses were running at about £2 million last year
because of the commercial benefits of expansion. Both have been busy on research
and development work on radio, televisions and hi-fi equipment. Elimination of half
the work brings an immediate saving. The Pye group will in future concentrate its
efforts on scientific and technical “professional” equipment.

1951

For the first time, winners of ploughing societies’ matches in the county met to
decide the champion ploughman. The winner was M. Bowers of Cottenham who received
the Championship cup and the cup for best work in the horse ploughing class. The
youngest ploughman on the field, 14-years-old G. Bailey of Willingham bowed to a
more experienced man when he was placed second to J. Hammance (Sutton) in the heavy
tractor class, but he did have the pleasure of beating his father, E. Bailey, into
third position. E. Blunt of Cottenham was first in the light tractor class.

1926

The Cambridge Camera and Wireless Co. of Alexandra Street offers a very complete
range of component parts or complete wireless sets. The famous Pye sets can be seen
in their windows, also the self-contained “Britamax All-Wave” receivers.
Specialities of this firm include reliable, but cheap, H.T. batteries, valves and
loud speakers.

1901

A fashionable wedding took place at the church of St Andrew the Great in Cambridge
of Baron von Rigal Grunland, groom in waiting to the German Emperor and Miss
Roberta Nuttall of San Francisco. Notwithstanding the high social position of the
bride and bridegroom, quietness characterised the ceremony. The pathway leading
from the gate was covered in, carpeted and ornamented with palms. The bride was
attired in a handsome white costume, largely composed of lace, over which fell a
long veil. The long train was supported by two little pages. She carried a bouquet
consisting of lilies of the valley. The honeymoon will be spent in France.
Telegrams conveying congratulatory messages were received by the happy pair from
all parts of the world.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 17th December

1976

For almost the entire 60 years the National Savings movement has been in existence,
villagers at Bourn have been relying on the same family to help them save. Between
them Miss Amy Clark aged 84, her sister Miss Ada Clark, aged 78, and their late
father have docked up 111 year’s service to the Bourn Village Savings Group. The
sisters’ extraordinary record has been marked by the presentation of long-service
medals. The Bourn group has only five members now, including the two sisters
themselves but can look back on much busier days when more than 40 people were “on
the books”, saving for National Savings Certificates.

1951

Shock the public – and ask the Cambridge Daily News to publish photographs of road
accidents as soon as they occur. Putting this suggestion to the Cambs Road Safety
and Accident Prevention Council Mrs T.R. Henn declared: “We have got to use more
drastic measures in road safety. We must stir the imagination of the people of this
country”. The chairman thought it a good idea, but the problem is for the C.D.N. to
get the photographs; would the police supply them? The Police said they didn’t
supply the Press and when they did take pictures they didn’t take the bodies as
well. Mrs Henn: A pity. No action was taken

1926

It may not be generally known to the Cambridge public that Mr Carne, the manager of
the Playhouse, Mill Road, is the “Victor Carne” who figures in the record list of
the Vocalion Gramophone Co. He has recorded “The Holy City” and “The Star of
Bethlehem” for their Christmas list and these and other of his records are
obtainable at Messrs Leavis’s, Regent Street. Wireless enthusiasts will no doubt
remember the many times he has sung from London and Daventry.

1901

A man described as a gentleman of the Retreat, Buntingford, a certified home for

habitual drunkards, was summonsed for refusing to obey orders whilst an inmate.
Regulations set forth that work should be performed by each patient for six hours
each day. The work consisted of removing gravel from a footpath for the purpose of
making a recreation ground at the Home for the benefit of the patients. Defendant
said he was willing to perform other work in the carpenter’s shop which would be of
benefit to him when he left, but not with pick and shovel. The Bench did not impose
a penalty on this occasion if he would give an honourable understanding that he
would in future do what he was asked.

Tuesday 18th December

1976

The River Cam is being downgraded from its present status as a top-class river
because of its deteriorating condition, mainly due to sewage and oil pollution.
Downgrading would be a black mark against the Anglian Water Authority. More money
will have to be spent on sewage treatment. Its Scientific Director said there had
been an improvement during the past year, but low flow had aggravated the
situation.

1951

Is an electric washing machine an essential in the educational development of

children? The County Primary Education committee sought approval that machines
should be hired from the Eastern Electricity Board at three guineas a time for the
use of schools at Bassingbourn, Comberton and Swavesey. Councillors were equally
divided. How many people were in an income bracket to afford a washing machine? Not
many. The only way you can buy them after you have learned to use them is by the
hire purchase system that people can ill-afford. It was approved on the casting
vote of the chairman.

1926

“Daisy Lee” was summoned for professing to tell fortunes to the wife of P.S.
Hillier of Ely constabulary. She made a picturesque figure in court and said she
was a member of the old and well-known family of Gypsy Lee. She was born in a
caravan and called a gypsy. She carried on a business as a “character reader” and
had stood in Ely Market Place often on market days without any complaint being
made. Mrs Hillier said he had visited Lee’s caravan at St John’s Farm, Ely, had
handed over a half-crown and been told to make a lucky wish. The gypsy then told
her she had had a lot of worry and trouble – which was not true – and that she had
a very good husband. The Bench fined Lee £10 and 10s costs and said she “must
consider herself lucky they had not given her three month’s hard labour”. The money
was paid forthwith

1901

While the Green End residents of Histon were peacefully sleeping, the Church End
villagers were rudely awakened from their slumbers by a man shouting “Fire! Fire!!
Help! Help” They found Mr Smith Rowley’s farm buildings were issuing volumes of
flames to a considerable height above the well-known massive trees in the Manor
grounds. Villagers came upon the scene, closely followed by seven or eight county
constables who were attracted to the scene by the flames that lit up the sky.
Little could be done as the big barn and other buildings were enveloped. Rats by
the hundreds ran from the buildings enveloped in flames, presenting a peculiar
sight of “balls of fire” hopping over the grass which was white with frost.

Wednesday 19th December

1976
The Cambridge County Court moved into a new office block between Bateman Street and
Norwich Street earlier this year. Both the court and the offices are
uncompromisingly modern. They are efficient, comfortable but quite impersonal. The
court room with simple modern furniture lacks the character of the old premises in
the centre of Cambridge. But most cases dealt with are divorce and perhaps the less
daunting informal atmosphere is more suitable. The witness boxes are so close to
the judge’s chair than an incensed witness could hit the judge and certainly see
his notes.

1951

Newmarket trainers are to discuss Lord Roseberry’s announcement that his horse,
Snap, was doped before running at Newmarket racecourse in October. It is trained
only a few hundred yards from the course and did not have leave the town to run in
the race; there would be a greater opportunity for dopers to get at a horse which
had to go on a long journey. Some trainers were saying that the “nobbling” of Snap
was done by a local gang who were able to identify the horse off the racecourse.
They would like to see stronger security arrangements in Newmarket. The Jockey Club
has power to warn anybody off their premises but have no control over the town. A
solicitor with a large racing practice said it was very doubtful whether the
administering of a drug to a racehorse was an offence against the law.

1926

Saffron Walden magistrates heard an application on behalf of a number of licence-

holder for an extension of hours on the occasion of the share-outs of the
respective slate clubs. The houses had a large number of members – some as many as
150. Many of them were bricklayers working out of the town and it was not possible
to commence sharing out before 7.30. It was 10 o’clock before it was finished and
up to 11 pm the members desired to have refreshment and a “sing-song”. The police
said they had no objection. The application was not granted.

1901

Sir – Crowds which perambulate St Andrew’s Street, Cambridge, on Sunday evenings

have been growing in numbers and disorderly conduct and unless something is done we
shall soon have a reproduction of the conditions prevailing in many of the large
manufacturing cities. I am no prude, but to those going and returning from places
of worship these crowds are an intolerable nuisance. In almost every parish with an
artisan population there is an institute or club or reading room, but how many of
these are opened for free use on Sunday. Should not the clergy seek out and rescue
these lads and girls from the vice and immorality which is involved in their method
of “getting through Sunday”. – J.J.

Thursday 20th December

1976

A storm of protest followed the building of a line of office blocks in Hills Road,
Cambridge, about three years ago. Public meetings were organised and people claimed
the character of the area was being ruined, good housing lost and small shops
demolished or forced out of business. Most of the offices replaced large terraced
houses of little architectural interest. But the busy main road was not an ideal
site for housing and several were no longer private homes. The new buildings are
individually of quite a high standard, but they appear completed isolated and out
of character with the shopping area. They need something to break up their long
facades and link them with the variety and bustle of the shopping area. But the
offices have injected a new source of life into the area; already a bank and
several eating places have opened up, presumably to catch the lunch time trade from
the offices.

1951

Cambridge undergraduates are acting as porters at Cambridge railway station to help

cope with the “very heavy” Christmas postal parcel traffic. Temporary porters are
paid daily on the basis of £5 10s.6d for a 44-hour week. The Post Office staff
handle all letter mails, but only deliver the parcel traffic to the station, where
it is handled by rail personnel. On Sunday and Christmas day there will be certain
local withdrawals and additions to passenger services and on Boxing Day there will
be nine additional afternoon and evening passenger trains to London.

1926

We regret to record the death at his residence of Mr Thomas Strangeways, Lecturer

on Special Pathology in the University and Director of the Research Hospital. He
did a good deal of research in rheumatoid arthritis but had recently been very keen
on the cultivation of animal cells in the test tube and was one of the pioneers in
this work

1901

Mr Frank Cooper, an undergraduate of Clare College, made an ascent in a balloon

from the grounds of the Welsh Harp, Hendon and dropped in a parachute from an
altitude of 1,500 ft into the grounds of a private mansion about a mile and a half
away. The parachute did not open immediately and the daring aeronaut had a dead
fall of at least 300 ft after which the canvas inflated and then descended
gradually. Mr Cooper is engaged in the study of aerostatics and intends to apply
himself to the problem of aerial navigation, which he believes is possible by
mechanical means

Friday 21st December

1976

The Government has chopped almost £10 million off its cash aid to Cambridgeshire
County Council. Senior councillors have been shocked at the figure, which is almost
£4 million more than originally anticipated and the most savage cut in the country.
Councillors said that last year the Government took account of the county’s growing
population, but this year it has gone back to the old method and is working on
population figures that are two years out of date. They have decided to shift money
in favour of London and major urban areas.

1951

Miss Mary Charlotte Green of Harston House has died. Aunt to the distinguished
author, Graham Greene, she was well-known for her deep interest in village
activities. Her main occupation was painting which she continued right up to recent
weeks, the paint on some of her works being still wet. She could often be seen
painting on Coe Fen, even when there was frost on the ground. She exhibited at the
Royal Academy and was President of the Cambridge Drawing Society. She also
published a number of poems, reminiscences and one-act plays and was a keen
horticulturist.
1926

Colonel Archer told Ely council that the congested state of the streets on market
days was growing serious because of the large number of buses. Brays Lane had to
take a very large share of the traffic because it was a short cut to the Beet Sugar
Factory and was dangerous. The Chief Constable said there were three kinds of
vehicles: the farmers’ carts, the private cars and the motor ‘buses. He did not
think they could compel the farmer to put his cart some distance from where his
horse was. They did not want to drive trade away. The only solution was there must
be no parking of private cars other than in places specially allotted to them; the
council must decide where these should be. All setting-down and taking up of bus
passengers should occur between the junction of Lynn Road and Market Street and the
Sun public house.

1901

During the recent epidemic of diphtheria in Cambridge great assistance was rendered
by Dr Cobbett of the Pathological Laboratory. He is one of the greatest authorities
on diphtheria and as so little was known about the general treatment quite a new
plan had to be adopted. As he will not be available in future the Cambridge Public
Health committee recommend that Dr Graham Smith be appointed bacteriologist to the
council. It was only a skilled bacteriologist who could examine the throats of
those who had been in contact with the patient. One child in school might affect
twenty or thirty. Other councillors thought they would be creating a new office
when they were overrun with officials at the present time. They had organisations
all over the place. The Medical Officer of Health was quite capable of dealing with
it.

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 24th December

1976

Mr Stanley Chown has created hundreds of masterpieces over the last 50 years, only
to see them destroyed in minutes. But he takes it as a compliment, because he is
chef manager at Pembroke College, and has cooked his way to the top of his career.
Last night a special reception was held at the college to mark his retirement. Mr
Chown started as an apprentice chef with the college in February 1926. “In those
days you did seven years’ apprenticeship and then two more years before you were
recognised as trained. I got five shillings a week when I began, and 15 shillings a
week after five years”, he said.

1951

Please give your phone a rest on Christmas Day unless a call is really essential –
and allow many Cambridge Exchange operators to have their Christmas dinners at home
in peace. The Telephone Manager, Mr W.E. Dance, has made special staffing
arrangements which means there will be 30 operators at the switchboard. On other
days there are 130 day and 80 night operators at the controls. The normal daily
number of calls dealt with is about 11,000 (quite apart from dialled calls). For
those who still intend to telephone on Christmas day he offers this gentle reminder
– “Sorry but we can give you no concession charges between 6 pm and 10.30 pm on
those days.”

1926
Christmas Day and the two following days will be fully occupied in the good old-
fashioned way; then will come the reaction and the question will arise, what to do
with the children. Pearl Lambeth will help to solve that problem by presenting her
annual children’s’ pantomime, “Betty and the Fairies”, at Cambridge Guildhall
together with a spectacular ballet and a good old harlequinade to follow. The
programme certainly looks attractive and it is hoped that Cambridge will accord her
bumper houses as a reward for her enterprise.

1901

The interior of the Wesleyan Chapel at Waterbeach has been considerably improved;
the pulpit, which formerly was of an inconvenient height, has been lowered to a
position more consistent with the comfort of the congregation occupying the floor
pews. In front of it the dais for the accommodation of the choir has been enlarged
and provided with new chairs. The scheme also included the provision of a new
organ, and an American instrument now occupies a place in the chapel.

Tuesday 25th December – no paper

Wednesday 26th December

1976

When its finished it will be the house that Jack – and Tom and Dick and Harry –
built. In fact, almost everyone who lives in the Riverside Improvement Area will
have made some kind of contribution towards the conversion of 6 Priory Road,
Cambridge to make it their Neighbourhood House. At the moment it’s a disused
vegetable store, but now the City’s Property Panel have given the go-ahead to turn
it into a neighbourhood centre – on the understanding that residents carried out
the work themselves. The centre will be mainly for the older people in the
community. At the moment they go to the Howard Mallett club but it is very
difficult crossing the busy Newmarket Road. Money raising ideas have already been
put into operation. Christmas cards with a local Riverside area scene are selling
like hot cakes. They were designed by Richard Darlington, closely involved in the
project as the council’s Area Improvement Officer.

1951

Some people welcomed in Christmas day at the churches; football matches in the
morning also had their fair share of male spectators, probably escaping from the
hurry and bustle of Christmas dinner preparations at home. But for the rest of the
day Cambridge became a “ghost” city. Just before lunch-time fewer than two dozen
people were counted in the city centre and during the remainder of the day the
streets echoed with the sound of lone walkers. Although Boxing Day too was for some
a stay-at-home day, football matches, cinemas and pantomimes drew others away from
their firesides

1926

Expectations of a white Yuletide were not realised this Christmas. The weather
Harlequin at the last minute performed one of his celebrated quick-change acts and
brought a sulky drizzle which lasted all day. The visit of the Helder football team
from Holland proved a considerable attraction to the Town ground on Christmas
morning and there was a fair attendance at the local Derby between the Abbey and
the Swifts. Apart from this there was little to tempt folk abroad and happy family
gatherings round the home fire, fortunately replenished since the resumption of
work in the coal mines, were the order of the day.

1901

Up to Monday afternoon there was every prospect of a Christmas such as Englishmen

love, clear skies, hard roads and several degrees of front. Vendors of skates had
already done a brisk trade and those who possessed the pleasurable implements
hauled them out of their summer resting places, furbished them up and promised
themselves some hours’ enjoyment on the ice during the Christmas holidays. Just as
the ice was at bearing point in came the thaw and Yuletide was ushered in with
driving rain. The treachery of the English climate is sufficient explanation.

Thursday 27th December

1976

A question-mark hangs over the hub of local farming at Owen Webb House, as the
county branch of the National Farmers’ union embarks on a long round of
negotiations which could lead to Ely becoming the capital of county agriculture.
Negotiations for the proposed site in Silver Street, Ely, reputed to be worth about
£50,000 are still in their infancy. The Owen Webb site in Cambridge has enormous
development potential but the secretary is certain that the centre, opened in 1953,
will remain the focal point for county farming

1951
Cambridge youngsters went over to the US base at Lakenheath to meet Father
Christmas – a Santa who stood six foot three inches in his boots and spoke with the
composed drawl of a Missouri man. Given by U.S. soldiers of the 60th Anti-Aircraft
Artillery Automatic Weapons Battalion and the 98th Chemical Smoke Generating
Company it was the party to end all parties. The morning was spent in the camp
cinema where cartoons and the inevitable “Western” set the pace for the remainder
of the day’s activities. Then they collected their Christmas dinner a la American;
that is on an all-in-one tray, in line ahead from the cafeteria. Later every child
received a really marvellous gift, the value of which could be estimated in pounds
rather than in shillings.

1926

Mr J.G. Davies of Histon had another long jaunt on his two-speed hand-propelled
invalid chair just before Christmas. He left Histon intending to go to Manchester
but when he arrived at Leicester decided to come back again. A considerable part of
the journey was done by night and he had several little adventures on the road
including a collision with a milestone and being thrice stopped by tramps, one of
whom threatened violence. “He became so wild that as I could not defend myself very
well in my chair I had to resort to the gun which I carry with me on these little
journeys and, pulling it out, I threatened him with it, so he cleared off, to my
relief”, he said.

1901

A most successful pigeon-shooting match took place on the pastures at the back of
the Red Lion Hotel, Whittlesford Bridge. There were about 30 guns and about 350
birds were shot. The chief event was shooting for a fat pig; each competitor had
five shots and Mr Townsend of Saffron Walden, being the only person killing five
birds in succession, won the pig.
Friday 28th December

1976

Dozens of people armed with forks and spades descended upon a potato field at Over
for easy pickings. The recent wet weather and the promise of sharp frosts promoted
a local farmer, Mr Brian Burling, to make potato lovers an offer they couldn’t
refuse. They were given the chance of digging as many as they could at the rate of
£6 a row, each row concealing about one hundredweight of potatoes. This could
amount to selling potatoes at 5p a pound; in the village shop they cost 13p. Not
all the pickers were locals. Some had travelled from Cambridge and Royston. Some
found that the digging was not only kind on their pockets but also helped to work
off the Christmas pudding and turkey. Mr Burling hopes that within six days about
20 acres, with 200 tons of spuds, will be cleared.

1951

Sir – I hoped Cambridge enjoyed its Christmas. I have spent Christmas in a few
places, but this one which I was compelled to spend in lodgings in Cambridge has
been unique. With all cafes, restaurants and hotels closed and with those public
houses which were open devoid of their usual snacks and sandwiches I found it
impossible to get a meal on Christmas Day. With the complete cessation of public
transport it was impossible to go in search of more hospitable regions. Perhaps in
the future Cambridge will conform to the standards generally offered by its
counterparts elsewhere – “A stranger”

1926

The Agricultural Wages Committee met to receive objections to the reduction of the
minimum wage of special classes of workers under 18 years of age from 30s to 27s a
week for the customary hours for men employed as horsemen, cowmen or shepherds, and
limiting the minimum wages of 12s provided for boys under 15 years to boys of 14.
The committee could extend the definition of overtime to include work on particular
days. This had been done in the case of special workers in glasshouses in
Hertfordshire where all work after 12 o’clock on Christmas Day was treated as
overtime.

1901
An Old Perseans Society was formed at a well-attended meeting held in the School
Hall. Among the objects of the new organisation are united support of the school in
all matters concerning its honour and welfare whenever occasion demands, and the
compilation of a register of Old Perseans. It was a particularly suitable time for
the formation of such a society at the close of a long connection with the school
of the late Headmaster who struggled long against adverse circumstances, and at the
arrival of a new Headmaster, Mr W.H.D. Rouse.

2002

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 31st December

1996
The Cambridge Polish community has a simple though to reflect upon. Fascism drove
them out of their country and brought them to Britain & the advent of communism
back home kept them here when the war ended. Poles like Henio Muszynski and Czeslaw
Rataj, young infantrymen in 1945 recall the camaraderie of a post-war further
education camp at Fowlmere where many were taught English and eased into British
life. Cultural and social activities thrived; there was dancing and drama, “but we
would just hire a place so that people would meet every week to talk Polish and
just play cards”, said Mr Muszynski. Four years ago the community raised the money
needed to buy a three-story club house in Chesterton Road. It has 300 members and
is a comfortably furnished piece of Poland in Cambridge.

1951

If you want to give your car a present I suggest that a tune-up is just the thing.
The process is known as the Redex Conversion. After Mr J. Palmer of Messrs W.
Cullen of Rathmore Road, Cambridge, had done his skilful work on my 1938 10 h.p.
model petrol consumption improved by 4½ [FOUR AND A HALF] miles per gallon to 40
mpg at 30 mph, a figure I had not even contemplated would be achieved. Distance
taken to accelerate from 15 to 30 mph reduced from 180 to 140 yards and top speed
up the Gogs from a standing start was raised from 20 to 25 mph. The cost of
conversion is in the region of £3 to £4 according to the number of cylinders.

1926

A pleasing little ceremony took place at Hildersham when the Mayor of Cambridge
(Ald J.S. Conder), who is a native of the village, was presented with an address.
Though the population has decreased somewhat of recent years, the inhabitants make
up by enthusiasm what they lack in numbers and the mayor received a very hearty
welcome back to his old village. The rector said that if anybody had attempted 25
years ago to predict that the Mayor of Cambridge would be a native of Hildersham
they would have been disposed to ask in wonder: “can so great an honour belong to
so small, so poor and so unknown a place?” They believed that the honour which had
been conferred upon him would live in the annals of the village

1901
Even at this distance of time from its occurrence the calamity known as the
“Liberator Smash” has not ceased to have a disastrous effect upon its victims. An
old inhabitant of Linton was one of the many who lost his savings in that great
financial fraud and it is supposed that this so affected his mind that on Christmas
Day he took his own life. Deceased was in the habit of referring to his loss in a
despondent manner and lately suffered from acute sleeplessness.

Tuesday 1st January

1997

The New Year did not start very happily for two householders at Stretham. They
awoke on the first day of 1977 to find their homes flooded after heavy overnight
rain. Mr Derek Constable said the flooding was caused by a drain under the nearby
A10 road which was too small. Flooding started after the road was built in 1964.
Flooding also hit several places in the Huntingdon and St Neots areas and a small
brook that burst its banks flooded two houses and other buildings belonging to the
Cambridgeshire Hotel in Bar Hill. Traffic on the A604 was reduced to a crawl as the
water swept across the road into ditches and roadworks on the opposite side.
1952

During the war I was stationed for a time near a unit known as Fletcher Battery,
whose heavy coast defence guns rocked the houses every time they did a practice
shoot. This biographical detail was brought to my mind by hearing another Fletcher
“big gun”, Cyril by name, in action at the Arts Theatre; appropriately, he rocked
the house too. This Fletcher is firing his comedy salvoes in “The Sleeping Beauty”
in which he plays the part of the Queen, his skirts matching his rolling eyes in
their voluminousness. His personality naturally dominates the show, and laughter is
never far away when he is present. Miss Betty Astell plays the part of Beauty.

1927

The Great Ouse River Board heard that a number of stages had been erected on the
banks of the Ten Mile River and the Wissey for loading sugar beet. The banks in
many cases had been cut. Furthermore in loading the beet on to barges a quantity of
earth was allowed to fall into the river. It should be made clear this should not
be done without the approval of the Board. Sir Fred Hiam proposed notices be
printed so the factories could sent one to each farmer who contracted with them to
supply beet.

1902

A meeting at Cottenham decided to formulate a new scheme for supplying the whole
parish with water. Considerable uproar was occasioned by the Chairman, on observing
a stranger in the room, and being informed he was a reporter representing the
“C.D.N.”, exclaiming: “We don’t want any reporters here”. Mr Todd moved the
reporter should remain, as he would no doubt fairly report the meeting; they would
do nothing they were ashamed of. It was then proposed he be admitted as a
representative of the “Independent Press” and this was agreed to

Wednesday 2nd January

1977

One of the more intriguing battles to be fought in the New Year is whether or not
Cambridgeshire County Council’s 47,000-acre smallholdings estates survives in its
present form. The estate, which looks after the interest of about 5,000 tenants and
workers is the largest of its kind in the land, established to offset the more
disastrous injustices of the Depression in the 1920s and 1930s. The question is
whether it would be better to carry out a phased withdrawal, say over 20 years, and
allow those tenants who wish to buy their holdings to achieve their independence.
The issue is further complicated by the fact that the estate is undergoing a
radical amalgamation scheme designed to create larger and fewer holdings which are
more economic to run.

1952

A Cambridgeshire firm is to do a first-time-ever-in-England job shortly when one of

its helicopters will lay an electric cable. Pest Control of Harston have a fleet of
helicopters for agricultural spraying operations and the Midlands Electricity Board
has asked for their assistance in spanning a thousand-foot-wide valley in the
Malvern Hills. Similar operations have been carried out in America.

1927

The Christmas holidays passed off very pleasantly in Cambridge and the great
majority of workers no doubt appreciated to the full the four days’ respite from
their labours. But the arrangements with regard to closing on Tuesday were far from
satisfactory, the multiple shops being the main cause of trouble. For traders who
deal in perishable goods the problem is difficult and some did not see their way to
agree to the fourth day. With such confusion it was hardly to be expected that any
considerable section of the public would go shopping on Tuesday and it is doubtful
if those who did reopen then found it really worth while.

1902
The one event in Cambridge on New Year’s Eve that rises superior to all others is
the midnight ceremony on King’s Parade, where for many years past the public have
assembled to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new, in a manner that
obtains in a few other towns in the Kingdom. There was little except the
associations of the ceremony to tempt hundreds of people to make a midnight
journey. The space in front of Alderman Deck’s house, facing King’s College was
densely packed and shortly before 12 o’clock the first rocket ascended and about a
minute later the second followed. A few illuminative fireworks were discharged near
the church and King’s Parade resumed its normal appearance by 12.15

c.39

Thursday 3rd January

1977

A former Cambridge businessman who built a £30,000 road at Milton without planning
permission has now applied to keep it in operation to serve 12 proposed allotments.
The site where the road was built in 1974 has been the centre of controversy for
some years. Enforcement notices ordering the removal of the road, along with a
Nissen hut and the clearing of scrap from the site were issued two years ago.
Milton parish council clerk, Mr Barry Connor, said the village had two sets of
existing allotments. One belonging to the parish council would be cut in half by
the new by-pass. The other belonged to the church. There was a waiting list for the
parish council’s allotments.

1952

An 88-year-old woman who had been a patient at Fulbourn Hospital for 52 years
collapsed on the floor of one of the wards. As a result she sustained a fracture
and died from pneumonia. The sister said she had known the lady for the past ten
years and had never known her to have any relatives call and see her. There were
strict orders that no polish should be put on the floors. Instead the boards were
scrubbed and there were very few rugs. The Coroner said: “This is one of those
things which sometimes happen to old people and cannot be avoided. I think the fact
that this old lady had been a patient for 52 years showed at any rate that she must
have been treated with a great deal of care and attention to have reached this very
old age of 88”.

1927

The Cambridgeshire Chief Constable reported he had carefully considered the

question of the retention of the parish constables and hoped the committee would
agree to retaining them as he felt they were quite worthy of the duty they were
called upon to do. Many members of the force were from time to time taken for
special duty in connection with racing. On such occasions it was important to have
parish constables. It gave a sense of security when the regular members of the
force were away. In the prospect of a riot or disturbance when a regular policeman
was not at hand, the parish constable was the one man for organising some method of
maintaining order.
1902

Last evening an employee of the New Theatre was passing along King Street,
Cambridge, when he observed that fire had broken out on the ground floor of one of
St Mary’s Almshouses, which are situated on the west side of the street adjoining
the Horse and Groom. He found the inmate of the room lying unconscious on the floor
and the fire had taken a strong hold. The construction of the almshouses made the
situation really dangerous for those who lived in the upper rooms, to which the
only communication is by a narrow staircase. Fortunately 16 fiermen with three hose
carts were quickly upon the scene and the flames were soon got under

Friday 4th January

1977

The golden age of British farming output and productivity had come to an end and a
new generation of farmers will find life much tougher, according to Cambridgeshire
MP, Mr Francis Pym. An incredible record of sustained production and productivity,
unmatched by any other industry, had been upset by the present Government policies.
“The years ahead are going to be hard and farmers are going to need all their
reserves of will and skill to survive the difficulties”, he concluded.

1952

The first Provincial 4½ [FOUR AND A HALF] hours’ night T.V. service for viewers if
their sets go wrong is being operated by Messrs H.W. Peak Ltd., King Street,
Cambridge. To the 100 feet aerial above the firm’s premises the Fire Service will
tomorrow bracket a V.H.F. transmitted aerial for radio contact with their
engineers. A phone call will reach an operator who will contact by radio one of the
firm’s two servicing engineers who will be at home with a van (and a spare T.V.
set) at the ready. He will go to the caller’s home. Mr John Peak said: “I feel a
T.V. night service is essential, as it is mainly used for evening viewing, when it
is annoying for the public to find their set has a fault and they are unable to get
in touch with anybody to put it right”

1927

A part of twenty Cambridge undergraduates who are paying a social visit to New York
are providing the citizens and police with incidents amusing and sometimes
thrilling. One borrowed a fast sports car and gave the police an opportunity of
testing the pace of their large red car. Chased down Fifth Avenue he was able to
turn into a side street while the heavier police car was compelled by its momentum
to continue straight on. By the time it had returned he had disappeared into the
intricacies of Greenwich Village and was lost. He has also dived into the Hudson
River, in order to do which he had to cut a hole through the ice which was six foot
thick.

1902

Chesterton RDC received a resolution from Longstanton All Saint’s parish meeting
that members of property in the parish should provide their tenants with water. In
every case the landlords had agreed. The Clerk: “We supply water by water carts;
the contracts expires at the end of the month & it is thought that the owners
should now provide it”. The council agreed to continue the water cart system for
three months to give landlords the opportunity to supply their tenants with water.
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 7th January

1977

A 19-year-old girl from the Royston area is in Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge,

with polio. It is the first case reported in the region for several years. The
Hospital stressed there was no need for undue concern but urged members of the
public to check their own vaccinations, which is taken by mouth on a lump of sugar.
In 1975 only one case of polio was reported nationally. Last year it rose to eight.
It is believed the Royston girl is the second victim so far this year.

1952

An R.A.F. Meteor jet fighter crashed near Melbourn and wreckage was spread over a
wide area. The pilot died on arrival at Royston Hospital after bailing out. A farm
worker, Mr Stanley Wing, who was working on a stack near the crash received a
fright when an engine whistled past him to bury itself in the ground nearby.
Villagers in Melbourn reported that bits of the wreckage landed in the streets and
on houses. There was, however, no fire.

1927

Cambridge council agreed to spend £7,653 on the reconstruction and widening of

Victoria Avenue. The scheme was criticised on the grounds that it would tempt
motorists to increase their speed along the avenue. The Surveyor said that the
railings should go back an extra 11 feet as far as the trees, making the road 55
feet. Chesterton wanted a vehicular bridge at Walnut Tree Avenue which would carry
much of the traffic, but this had been coming for the last 35 years and it had not
come yet (laughter).

1902

When the Recorder inflicted three years’ penal servitude on the ex-cashier whose
crime & capture have made such a painful sensation in Cambridge there was a good
deal of speculation about where he would be sent. Some averred they had actually
seen him leave Cambridge, others were prepared to stake their veracity that he was
still confined in the county gaol and employing his time in the task of picking
oakum. In fact he left Cambridge this morning. In the custody of two wardens he was
driven to the G.E.R. station where they made for the general waiting room. It was a
shock to those familiar with the benevolent-looking figure to see him clothed in
convict garb with the ominous-looking arrows. His hair was closely cropped and his
flowing white beard cut quite close to the chin. The change was more accentuated by
the bowed and broken way in which he walked.

Tuesday 8th January

1977

Newmarket’s one-man band of talent, Pete Sayers once used to be a country singer.
He is now an all-round entertainer. His “brother” Dennis, a yokel, has an
inoffensive yet earthy sense of humour likely to brand him as Suffolk’s answer to
Billy Connolly. He speaks with wildly protruding teeth and wears thick-lensed
spectacles, a cloth cap and a dirty old mackintosh. A firm favourite, he was less
funny last night with the effect that his act went on too long. Another polished
character is Ricky Storm, a raving rock’n’roll hangover from the 1950s with a “DA”
hairstyle, “creeper” shoes and smart period suit, while Lawanda Davis, his female
impersonation, is a full-figured country singer straight out of Nashville.

1952
After Monday wash day it’s Tuesday bucket-and-shovel day for the women of the
Cambridge’s Queen Street, or Dustmen’s Folly as it has been re-named by the
residents. Tuesday is the day when the dustcart calls to empty the conglomeration
of tin cans, ashes, kitchen waste and other refuse. Every Tuesday morning as
regularly as clockwork 20 housewives place 20 dustbins on the pavements for the
dustmen to empty. Promptly at mid-day the dust-cart hoves in sight and the contents
are emptied into the cart with a liberal application for the road as well. And 20
housewives wait for the metallic clang that is the signal for them to go into
action with brushes, buckets and shovels to clear up the mess the dustmen leave
behind – for the street is in a worse state than it was before they called. And so
seldom is a street cleaner to be seen that to the majority of the residents he is a
legendary figure, though Mrs Fry who runs a little general stores does claim to
have seen the Abominable Dustman

c.29.8
1927

Sir – I am surprised to find the facilities for the Cambridge business man to play
golf are so small. They can never get a round as the courses are so far from the
town that they cannot get there. It is not everybody who can afford a car or motor
cycle. They would welcome a municipal or public golf course near Cambridge and I am
sure if the Town Council could entertain the idea of establishing a course it would
be a paying concern - Robin

c.38 : golf

1902

The Rev Weston of Orwell appeared before the Rural District Council with regard to
the village water supply. The well had been filled up about 14 years ago at the
request of the parish council. Previous to that there was a good supply of water,
which was used for drinking purposes. He asked that it be reopened or that another
should be dug. What did it matter whether the Parish Council want water or not? The
people want water. If they refuse then the RDC should do it. A committee was
appointed to go over to Orwell and investigate the matter.

Wednesday 9th January

1977

A Cambridge solicitor, Mr John Hales Tooke paid a £3 fine in court – not for
himself but for a well-known Cambridge character, Trevor Hughes. The reason – he
had overlooked giving Mr Hughes his regular Christmas box and thought that meeting
the fine imposed for being drunk and disorderly was a good way of redressing the
situation. And while Mr Hughes was lucky, so was Mr Hales Tooke. For one of the
magistrates said that they would have made the fine £10 if they had known Mr Hales
Tooke was going to meet it.

1952
For Cambridge 1951 was again a “very wet year”. Ald F.Dogget said the figure of
27.57 inches was well above the average. There were only 150 days without rain. It
was an exceptionally wet Spring and gardeners will remember we had only six fine
week-ends during that period. The heaviest fall was on August 6th and during a
thunderstorm on July 30th. The longest spell of fine weather lasted for 13
consecutive days between May 27th and June 9th. In the county Lt-Col Thornhill of
Manor House, Boxworth, said it was the wettest year since 1937

c.12

1927

At Hildersham dances play an important part in the evening’s entertainment. The

foxtrot, which is universally accepted as the most popular present-day dance, has
to bow its head to the valeta and the lancers, both of which appear to be great
favourites with the inhabitants. One seldom hears of these dances nowadays and few
would believe that young people participated, and what is more, enjoyed them. It is
a village not ashamed of indulging in what the inhabitants like – however old the
dances may be.

hursday 10th January

1977

Bourn windmill is expected to be in working order again in the Spring following the
battering it received in last winter’s gales. One pair of sails were torn off in a
storm, but all four are being renewed, for it was discovered that the remaining
pair were in such a bad state that a thorough restoration was needed. When the
Cambridge Preservation Society embarked on the restoration work it was estimated
that it would cost around £4,000. But the state of the remaining sails and their
replacement has now boosted the costs to more than £7,000. Bourn Mill, a post mill
which dates back to the mid 17th century is reputedly the oldest surviving windmill
in the country.

1952

How to put an aerial above your roof in three not-so-easy stages. 1: call the Fire
Brigade. 2: Ask the Chief Fire Officer (Mr Tom Knowles) to fire a rocket attached
to a rope over a T.V. aerial crossbar. 3: Use a bow and arrow. All three methods
were used in Cambridge by Mr John Peak of the King Street T.V. and furniture
dealers. He wanted to bracket a V.H.F. aerial to the firm’s existing aerial in
connection with their T.V. night service. But the Fire brigade’s turntable ladder
was a foot short & the rocket missed its mark. Then an arrow from the bow of John
Ridgeon (leader of the Cambridge Bowmen) went over the top. Attached to it was the
rope with the new aerial which was then hauled up.

1927

Mr A.E. Stubbs said that housing conditions in some part of rural Cambridgeshire
were worse than in any other parts of England and were a national scandal. Race-
horses were better housed than some agricultural labourers. He knew cottages that
one would not put a pig in where there were six, seven or eight people in two
rooms; where a curtain had to be drawn across a bedroom for a mixed family of boys
and girls, and where a woman had to put the food in an old tin trunk at night or
there would be no food in the morning owing to the depredations of the denizens of
the forests – rats ran over the beds and ate the food.

1902
Saffron Walden Girls’ British School in Debden Road, which has done service for
half a century, has been found most unsuitable for educational purposes. The
British and Foreign School Society offered to take on the schools. The opening
ceremony took place in the presence of a large gathering of townsfolk. The school
had been constructed on most advanced lines as to give teachers and scholars the
very best opportunities of teaching and learning. Associated as they were with the
Training College they would be perfect models for the students who would practice
in them. There is a large playroom for the kindergarten children which will also
serve for the drill of the older scholars and a room fitted up with appliances for
demonstration lessons in cookery. A portion of the grounds will be prepared and
stocked for object lessons in gardening.

Friday 11th January

1977

Most tourists coming to Cambridge do not get a change to the see the places around
the city, because they have no transport of their own. Now a freelance journalist
has formed a firm called Traditional Pub Evenings with the idea of taking visitors
– and locals if they want to go – out to two well-known inns, the Three Horseshoes
at Madingley and the Chequers at Fowlmere, for what he calls a traditional night
out in a natural environment. The price of £4.95 includes transport by coach to
both of the inns supper at one of them and a hostess to supply historical
information on the places visited. If it is successful the plan is to build up the
service to three or four nights a week in the main tourist season.

1952

Sweepings of lead carbonate oxide taken from the back of a car and compared by
Scotland Yard experts with similar material found outside St Peter’s church,
Duxford, featured when two men were sent to prison for two years for stealing 360
lbs of lead valued at £22.10s. from the church. The rector said he had become aware
of a different light from the porch. He rushed up a ladder standing nearby and
found that half the lead over the porch was missing. The prosecution agreed not to
proceed with a further charge of stealing lead from Ickleford [SUBS THIS IS
ICKLEFORD, NOT ICKLETON – MIKE] church four days earlier.

1927

A verdict of “Accidental Death whilst in the course of his employment owing to an

error of judgement on the part of the driver” was returned on a Soham roadman. He
was at work with a steam roller on the Stetchworth to Dullingham road. A motor car
came along, ran over the rough gravel and stopped twelve yards passed the roller.
This had occurred hundreds of times; if a car came over rough metal in high gear it
often stopped. The roadmen always helped & had given them a push. This time the
driver, instead of getting into third gear, somehow got into reverse and on letting
in the clutch the machine ran back and crushed the man between the car and the road
roller.

1902

At a meeting of the Saffron Walden town council a recommendation was adopted for
the closing of the November fair, an old-timed institution. The necessary document
was sealed and it will be laid before the Home Secretary. Councillor Williams
strongly opposed the recommendation and moved an amendment that the fair be held on
the Tuesday instead of Saturday. The last fair was one of the most successful ever
held and purchases of horses were present from London, Manchester, Cambridge and
other large centres. There was no doubt but what the town derived benefits from the
fair. He contended that a public meeting should be held before any resolution of
abolition should be put into effect.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 14th January

1977

Molly Dancing, a special Cambridgeshire Plough Monday celebration which died out in
the 1930s, has made a comeback at Balsham. The Cambridge Morris Men revived the
custom as part of the ritual of taking an oak plough round the village. About
£1,000 has been raised for charity since Plough Monday was revived seven years ago
but for once the “Ploughmen” in breeches and waistcoats, jocularly threatening to
carve up lawns unless given money, were upstaged by the enterprise of the Morris
Men. Mr Russell Wortley said the costumes were as authentic and possible and the
tunes were recorded from an elderly Morris dancer at Comberton who died many years
ago. It was the first time they had been danced since the tradition died out at
Little Downham in 1936.

1952

The secretary of the Cambridge Scientist’s Anti-War Group told what would happen if
an atom bomb were dropped on the city. It could be assumed that 50,000 people would
be killed and the same number injured by one bomb three times as powerful as that
dropped on Nagasaki. It would mean that 85 percent of the people in Cambridge would
be disposed of. Addenbrooke's Hospital would disappear and every building would
probably be set seriously on fire. If shelters were provided the fatal casualties
could be cut down to 14,000 and perhaps only 10,000 would be injured – but how
could these be dealt with by the medical facilities?

c.45.8

1927

C.E. Goodrich spoke of ‘Some joys and sorrows of a professional photographer’. A

very irritating thing that every portraitist experienced was when a lady bought
back her proofs with the statement that neither she nor any of her friends knew for
whom they were intended; no one recognised them, in fact. On one occasion the
complaint was met by a profuse apology from the photographer for having in error
sent her another lady’s proofs. Woe to the photographer who, catering for the
general public in a moment of inspiration sought to apply some of the principles of
art by suppression of some surplus furniture so as to allow the face of his sitter
to become the centre of interest, for he would be thought to be working with a
defective lens and not giving value for money. – 27 01 12

c.65.5

1902

After being ‘wanted’ by the police for years a man who is supposed to be a
suspicious character named Villiers, was arrested by Scotland Yard detectives at
his residence on Trumpington Road, Cambridge. They searched the house for a
considerable time without finding him. At last he was discovered concealed between
the ceiling and the roof. To this secret hiding place he had gained access by a
door secreted behind a piece of furniture. The arrest is in connection with the
publication of obscene literature and prints. Since being removed to the station
the man has died.
c.34.6

Tuesday 15th January

1977

Heavy snow hit Cambridge as the worst weather for 14 years caused nationwide chaos
and led to widescale disruption on the roads and railways. Weathermen say the
snowfalls will be heavy and prolonged and warm winds could produce drifts. In many
places there were snowfalls of more than one foot. Thousands of people were late
for work as hard-packed snow, freezing fog and black ice made driving treacherous.
And many trains were late or cancelled despite an all-night fight against the
Arctic conditions by British Rail who called in their full cold weather emergency
procedures.

c.12

1952

The January sales are now in full swing and queues of bargain hunters are to be
seen outside various shops. Messrs Coad opened its sale on Monday and the main
demand was for all-wood lumber jackets reduced from 29s 11d (£1.50) to 14s. 11d.
(75p). The first arrival at Rose’s Fashion Centre sale was there at 5 a.m. and by
the time the store opened there were about 100 people waiting, so many that the
doors had to be closed and a few shoppers let in at a time. The biggest run was on
heavily reduced taffeta dresses. At Joshua Taylor people came in from a radius of
50 miles and the first bargain hunter arrived at 4 a.m. to secure a handbag which
at £2. 2s. was one-third of its original price.

1927

The Chief Constable, Mr R.J. Pearson said that when he came to Cambridge there used
to be only one or two policemen on point duty, whereas now there were seven or
eight. The force had not been increased so one had to scheme accordingly. During
the past year nearly 2,000 bicycles were found in the streets; up to Thursday
morning there were 300 at the Police Station but 70 had been claimed that day. One
seldom saw a drunken man in the streets and returns showed they were one of the
best towns from this point of view.

c.34.7

1902

Saffron Walden council heard the November horse fair was rapidly declining and very
little genuine trade was done. It had been reduced almost to an encampment of
travelling shows and other attractions, bringing together a large number of dealers
in caravans with their animals and other accessories, under very undesirable
conditions. The noise of steam organs, roundabouts and shooting galleries caused a
great annoyance to the residents. But Coun Williams said that 200 additional
persons came into the town by train on the fair day, 20 horses were sent away by
rail, and a great number more travelled by road. It was resolved that the fair
should be abolished.

Wednesday 16th January

1977

The Cambridge “park and ride” scheme is to be continued indefinitely on Saturdays

because of its success during the Christmas and New Year periods. At present the
cattle market on the south side is used as a temporary car park and people can get
at 15p return trip into the city centre on a bus. The service was started by the
Eastern Counties Omnibus Company with the backing of the Chamber of Commerce and
the City Council. The cattle market has spaces for about 700 cars and was
constantly three-quarters full immediately before Christmas. The service might end
if the city council wanted it to cease being a car park or if the bus company lost
a lot of money on it.

c.26.48

1952

A Cambridge man who as a war-time brigadier helped in the planning of D-Day told
some of the “inside story” to Cambridge Rotarians. Mr T.R. Henn of St Catharine’s
college said his own part was “of the very humblest”. He took part in the planning
of two invasions. The first was a completely paper one in 1942 when the Powers-
that-be got together a small party of some eight majors and a brigadier and told
them: “Look here, chaps, we’re going back on the Continent some time or other.
Assume you have the men, guns, ships and aircraft and tell us what you want”. Eight
months later they became part of the real invasion planning staff in London. After
the ‘Overlord’ plan had been sent off to Washington he came up to Cambridge and
walked into Bowes and Bowes bookshop. He picked up a new book which contained two
maps showing zones they planned to use, but by then things had gone too far.

c.45.7

1927

Deep regret is felt at the news of the death of Mr Frederick James Stoakley, chief
laboratory assistant at the Chemical Laboratory for fifty years. He made a life-
time study of colour photography and made the first ‘three colour’ photograph seen
in Cambridge. He was one of the first to handle the Autochrome plate and produced
some remarkable renderings of chemical objects. He was in great demand as a
lecturer on colour photography and his photographic studies have been exhibited in
all the big exhibitions. He was one of the founders & past President of the
Cambridge Photographic Society

c.65.5

1902

The ‘Cambridge Express’ charges the police with having supplied the CDN with
information and refusing to give it to the other newspapers. This is unfair. The
CDN gathered its own news in its own way, without any help from the police at all.
We telegraphed to Cork for a report of the hearing before magistrates which gave
the probable date of arrival of the suspect in Cambridge. Three reporters were
stationed along the railway. One at Gamlingay saw detective Marsh and the prisoner
in a compartment, entered the carriage and rode with them, thus securing the
information.

c.04
Thursday 17th January

1977
The Cambridge cattle market, which has stood at Cherryhinton Road for almost 100
years, should be closed on its present site as soon as possible, the city council
decided, because the ratepayers receive no benefit from the thousands of pounds
spent on subsidising it each year. It is the only sizeable market in the whole of
the county and played an important part in the city’s life. Its closure did not
exclude the possibility of its re-opening elsewhere. In the meantime the market
should be accommodated on a smaller part of the site, thus releasing an amount of
valuable land for industrial development.

c.27.3

1952

When a neighbour sat beside the living room fire at Abington Post Office fire ate
its way through a 10-inch thick 200-years-old solid oak cross-beam supporting the
floor. She saw smoke coming through the floorboards and went down and told the
postmaster, Mr H.W. Jaggard. Another two inches and the beam might have snapped and
the whole room would have caved in. Firemen took out the fireplace to get to the
burning beam. A little longer and the whole place would have gone up.

1927
H.L. Hughes spoke on how town planning could be improved. The last 100 years have
seen an enormous increase in population and as a result town planning if not a
problem for the future but more for the immediate present. The traffic, the sewers,
the gas or electricity all have to be thought of. There are roads from the foot of
the Gogs to Shelford and Stapleford which only contain one or two houses along
them. Buses may pass the door but one has to go miles for a doctor, a church or a
school. In a few years’ time people will not live in such places and these houses
will be left to fall down and spoil the approach to the town

1902

The stationmaster at Fulbourn told the court that under the company’s rules the
Teversham railway gatekeeper had no right to appoint anyone to take charge of the
gates. He had to be at the gate all the day, but had a boy relieve him during the
dinner hour. On the day of the accident he had been suffering from diarrhoea and
went to the Baker’s Arms to get something to stop it. He had twopennyworths of
whiskey and some ginger wine. He did not return because he was ill and did not feel
capable. PC Salmon said he found one of the gates broken; the boy was there with a
hand lamp. The jury returned a verdict of guilty with a very strong recommendation
to mercy. He was discharged and would not lose his pension.

Friday 18th January

1977

The Central EMI Bingo and Social Club, a converted cinema in Hobson Street,
Cambridge, could quite comfortably have found a place in the zaniest of science
fiction movies – with its brash psychedelic mish-mash of colours and huge
electrically operated board that rises high behind the caller. The four-year-old
club has 10,000 members and is an addict’s paradise – open every afternoon and
evening except Sunday and with hundreds of pounds at stake at each session. On
Saturday the club linked up by phone to the EMI club in Oxford for a game which
boasted a £400 jackpot. In the few seconds between games people dashed for the
fruit machine which spills out its £30 jackpot in 50p pieces

c.76.9
1952

Cambridge Council agreed to include a £75,000 scheme for a sub-way approach to the
railway station; thousands of people would benefit from it and it could take the
place of another item on the priority list - £150,000 for a multi-deck car park.
Coun H.C. Ridgeon aid it would mean a tremendous saving to traffic from Hills Road
and Mill Road and prove a great advantage to the town as a whole. Ald Briggs
vigorously supported the suggestion to make it a top priority and pointed to the
present “nightmare congestion” to press the need.

1927

Newmarket U.D.C. received a letter from Lord Glaney for the tenancies of six of the
cottages now being erected on the Burwell Road, Exning. He had contracted to sell
his estate at Lackham and would shortly be removing his establishment to Exning and
required the cottages for the accommodation of his domestic staff. Mr Dring said he
quite appreciated the fact that Lord Glaney was a big ratepayer but the council was
building these cottages for the working class, not for gentlemen’s servants. If he
wanted to bring his servants here surely he was in the position to build his own
cottages for them. Major Griffiths said they might meet him by letting him have two
or three.

1902

Cambridge Volunteer Fire Brigade’s new fire station in St Andrew’s Street is in

telephonic communication with different parts of the town through the National
telephone Co and by means of ten fire alarm posts. There are three permanent
salaried firemen on duty, one during the day, and two during the night. They have a
double call bell to the stables of the Lion Hotel where there were two horses in
readiness to be called out for the fire tender. It was contemplated to have a steam
fire engine but how soon it would come it was not possible to say.

c.34.75

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 21st January

1977

Joss sticks burned in King’s College Chapel, Cambridge, when a capacity audience of
more than 1,000 heard a recital by the world-renowned Indian sitarist, Ravi
Shankar. The recital was in the ante-chapel with Mr Shankar and his accompanists
seated on a specially erected dais covered with traditional Indian rugs and
surrounded by electronic recording and amplifying equipment. James Day reported:
“It was advisable to listen with closed eyes and let the music sink in; but opening
them occasionally and focussing on the organ screen I would have sworn just for a
moment that the carved bosses had turned into elephants’ heads and that instead of
being in King’s I was in some oriental temple”.

1952

Sir. Twenty-five years ago Magdalene College started a scheme which might have
involved the widening of Magdalene Street and the removal of buildings opposite the
college. But it does not now contemplate the completion of the scheme and is now
strongly opposed to the widening of the street and the demolition of the buildings
on the west side. The College would be strongly prejudiced if it should be divided
by a street similar in character to the widened part of Bridge Street and would
strongly object to such a change of character and loss of amenity in the
neighbourhood – Henry Willink, Master.

c.44.6 # c.26.48

1927

A claim by a Cambridge motor engineer and taxi-cab proprietor against an Indian

student who met with an accident while driving a hired car was heard in the County
court. He had hired the car for the afternoon and agreed to pay 25s. (£1.25) plus
the cost of the petrol and oil and accepted full responsibility for the safety of
the car. He had the misfortune to collide with a motor cycle and sidecar at the
Abington crossroads. The car was taken to Messrs King and Harper with instructions
to repair it, but they were not quite satisfied their charges would be met.
Plaintiff told the court the car had been brought to him with a view to being sold;
the owner wanted £70 for it. He had paid £36 but one never knew the condition of a
car after an accident.

1902

Cambridge Star Brewery shareholders were told that the Directors had purchased the
Fenstanton Brewery together with licensed premises and sundry private houses &
cottages. That brewery has now been closed. On the whole the accounts were
extremely satisfactory. Going back to the first report of the company in 1892 the
assets had been increased by nearly £18,000

c.27.4

Tuesday 22nd January

1977

Reach mothers are uniting to press for the rebuilding of a bridge which they say is
a potential death trap. It spans the disused railway line on the only main road
into Reach from Swaffham Prior. Twenty feet below the bridge are the remains of the
parapets, demolished by hooligans, brick by brick, over the last two years. A water
main had burst on the surface of the bridge, which has subsided. The Assistant
County Surveyor agreed the ideal solution would be to demolish the bridge and level
the road, but they were unable to make funds available at the moment. The council
is still in the process of taking the bridge over from the Railways Board.

1952

After years of planning, working and hoping, members of Chesterton Methodist Church
have at last a building of their own, a new church on the corner of Green End Road
and Scotland Road, which was officially opened by Mrs Elliot Ridgeon. Now they have
a light and bright building and the friendliness of the many members at the
ceremony reflected joy and thankfulness at the completion of the new church. But
their struggles are not yet over for they plan to build a school hall and hope one
day to build a bigger church.

c.83

1927

A.E. Stubbs, organiser of the Workers’ Union gave a family budget from a farm
worker’s wife. Rent 3s., coal 3s., milk 2s., meat for a family of five 5s.8d.,
groceries 8s., oil and candles 1s. 4d., bread and flour 5s. 3d., insurance 9d – a
total of 29s. One shilling was left to provide clothes, boots, household things
that wore out – such as bedding, pots, pans etc.- doctors bills, clubs, papers and
finally holidays at the seaside every year. What a disgrace it was that, whilst the
land provided a good living for landlords and farmers, the farm workers had to
exist on a standard lower than a pauper

1902

An appeal has been moved to set aside the recent decision in the County Court which
declared Mr Walker to be chairman of Haddenham Parish Council. Meanwhile, having
made several futile attempts to hold a meeting it was agreed to call councillors
together. A goodly number of councillors and parishioners were present; the desks
intended for councillors were occupied by parishioners in free-and-easy attitudes
while the council table was monopolised as a very comfortable seat by some of Mr
Crookham’s party. The police took up position near at hand in case their services
were wanted. After agreeing to pay accounts the meeting broke up in disorder.

Wednesday 23rd January

1977

A grant of £650 is about to set the ball rolling in a bid to save something of a
fast-fading group of wall paintings at Barton parish church. But it will scarcely
cover the cost of restoring half of one of the major paintings – a picture of St
Michael weighing souls, which is above the north door. Work is due to start after
Easter. The paintings remained hidden for many years after they were covered up
during the Reformation period. An attempt at restoration was made in 1929 but
modern methods were not available and the work was not a success. Over the years
the paintings have deteriorated further. Five years ago costs were estimated at
around £3,000 and prices have spiralled since then.

1952

The County council was told “the true story of Miss Blank”, a displaced person
whose two children are being maintained at the Primrose Croft Home, at a cost to
ratepayers of nearly £14 a week – and who informed the matron that there is another
baby coming along. “She may have been told those homes cannot be worked
economically if they are not kept full and has taken steps in that direction. She
has landed in this country and kept up the supply of children to Primrose Croft.
There is nothing we can do about it” they were informed.

1927

With the extension of the Trans-Atlantic telephone service it was appropriate that
the first “call” from Cambridge should be to one of the leading American
universities. A room at Sidney Sussex College had been fitted up with plenty of
receivers and the Vice Chancellor of Cambridge University and the President of
Harvard exchanged greeting. Sir Ernest Rutherford then spoke to the President; he
said: “We have snow on the ground in Cambridge. Have you also snow”. “No I wish we
had”, was the reply. All were surprised at the clearness of the reception although
occasionally it was difficult to distinguish a word owing to the loud volume of
sound. Nevertheless effective conversation was possible, there being an entire
absence of atmospherics.

c.27.7

1902
A Cambridge cattle dealer appeared for examination in bankruptcy. He had learned
his business working with his father who was a dealer in cattle, sheep and pigs and
started on his own in June 1898, immediately after his return from his honeymoon.
He had £200 at the time and spent some to pay off his furniture. He got into
difficulties as he had to sell stock for less money than he gave for them, though
some weeks he got money and some weeks he didn’t. By November 1900 he had lost
£800. He didn’t keep books. He only spent about £3. 10s.0d. a week as he had got a
good wife.

Thursday 24th January

1977

Parents at Hemingford Abbots have come up with a do-it-yourself plan in a bid to

save the village school. It suggests parents teaching at the school as well as
cleaning it and serving school meals & is to be studied by the parish council and
school managers. It was put forward after the county council confirmed its decision
to close the century-old thatched school where two teachers handle two classes of
five to 11-year olds. It is due to close in September next year. Mrs Joan Keane,
parish council chairman said: “We have got to save the school because it is the
only real focal point for the village. If the school goes the village loses its
heart and its identity”

1952

Cambridgeshire is the only county in the Eastern region, apart from the Isle of
Ely, that has not opened an Old People’s Home, said Councillor Miss Boake when she
urged that the adaptation of Willingham Rectory as a home be given priority. The
cost would be £9,851, including £3,500 purchase price. The Isle was now building a
home, while Huntingdon had three. Coun Randall said there would sooner or later
have to be a sewerage scheme in Balsham; there were four open drains taking sewage
at the moment. Premier Travel has offered a withdrawn, but serviceable motor coach
for use as a mobile cinema to enable the Road Safety Organiser to expand his
activities.

1927

The Cambridge Albion Band and the Cambridge Town Bank have decided to amalgamate
and will be known in future as the Cambridge Silver Band. They proposed to buy a
complete set of new triple silver-plated instruments made by Messrs Hawkes, London
with the now famous ‘Profundo’ basses as played by the St Hilda Colliery Band. This
would greatly improve the tonal qualities of the band; there was not another band
in the Eastern counties with such instruments.

c.69

1902

The annual diner of the H (Newmarket) Company of the 2nd Volunteer Battalion of the
Suffolk Regiment took place at the Hotel Victoria. There were present about 100
rank and file. Recruits must attend 30 ordinary drills during their first year and
at least ten during subsequent years, but probably all their recruits put in 50
drills a year. Major d’Albani presented Lieut O.E. Griffiths with the Royal Humane
Society’s certificate on vellum for his cool courage in rescuing a boy who had
fallen into water 12 ft deep.
Friday 25th January

1977

More than 22,000 people are waiting to go into hospital in East Anglia, a
substantial increase on last year when only 18,056 were awaiting admission. 1,447
cases were classified as urgent and 966 of them had been waiting for a bed for more
than a month. Waiting times varied greatly from speciality to speciality but about
5,000 people have been waiting more than a year. The regional medical
administrator said the figures were “surprisingly encouraging” bearing in mind the
no-growth financial situation and the disruption caused by industrial action.

1952

Five of the crew were killed when an R.A.F. Lincoln bomber from Upwood,
Huntingdonshire, crashed and caught fire at Fincham, near Downham Market. Rescuers
pulled one survivor from the wreckage and took him to hospital. The bomber had been
diverted to Marham and was waiting to land. It flew low over the main road from
Downham Market to Swaffham, struck a tree and burst into flames after crashing.
Explosions were heard and wreckage was flung over several fields.

1927

Additional County council expenditure on first-class roads is due to increased

heavy traffic seriously damaging the roads. This is particularly evident when the
subsoil is clay. The council is to contact the Minister of Transport for an
additional grant. To widen an existing metalled carriageway one foot would cost
£270 per mile. It was agreed that the road from Willingham to the county boundary
near Earith, and from Over church towards Willingham should be declared to be main
road.

1902

A CHOICE OF TWO DEPENDING ON SPACE

An accident of somewhat curious character occurred in St Andrew’s Street,

Cambridge. A butcher’s cart collided with a tram and the wheel of the cart went on
to the platform of the tram. A mail van then collided with the tram and cart and
for a while everything was in disorder. The vehicles were with difficulty separated
without, fortunately, anyone being injured.

The Cambridge Watch Committee have disapproved of the holding of the annual Police
dinner, feeling that it is not desirable that the police should be put into the
position of seeking subscriptions from the public towards the meal. There are many
people in the town who think kindly of the police and would gladly subscribe
towards affording them a break in their laborious and somewhat monotonous lives.
The CDN is ready to afford this generous feeling outlet and, providing the
Committee offer no objection, a fund will be opened in our columns. There is no
doubt that the proposal to give ‘Robert’ a treat of this kind will commend itself
to the people of Cambridge.

c.34.7

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 28th January

1977

A ticket system devised to control tourists visiting Cambridge during the summer
might deter some people from coming to the city, according to a city council
report. The system, introduced on April 1st is starting because ever increasing
numbers of tourists have been causing chaos at the colleges. It requires the issue
of a permit to visit the college – at £1 for every 24 people – well in advance of
the party’s visit. Coach operators have warned the scheme will not work unless a
convenient bus park is provided

c.46.45

1952

Night operators at the Cambridge Telephone Exchange were praised at their Christmas
lunch. The idea grew out of a midnight Christmas dinner, held on Christmas Eve by
the night operators five years ago when they cooked their own turkey. Two main
indicators of good service were speed of answer and percentage of operating
irregularities and no department had a better team spirit. In the Cambridge region
there were at present 50,000 people waiting for ‘phones

c.27.7

1927

The County council considered the possibility of joining with other counties to
establish a maternity home within the curtilage of a hospital. There was an
arrangement with Addenbrooke's Hospital for cases of difficult confinement to be
admitted at an agreed payment per case. But as there was no maternity department
they were placed in a general ward & there was great difficulty in finding space

c.21.4

1902

Cambridge Discharged Prisoners Aid Society heard that Cambridge prison has not been
fully occupied by local prisoners during the past year but the Commissioner had
sent down a number of military prisoners as well as others from London and other
prisons. These transfer cases had added considerably to their work. They had
investigated 186 cases, including 53 female. The Church Army Home in Fair Street &
the Cambridge Female Mission had been most helpful. An Association of Lady Visitors
had been established to adopt measures for setting up in honest life of those
unfortunate women who come under the grip of criminal law, in whose case the
attendant shame is always attended with peculiar difficulty

c.34.6

Tuesday 29th January

1977

Sunday services at Rampton are being enlivened by the return of a colony of

squirrels to the church roof, but the accompaniment they are giving to the hymns is
upsetting the congregation. A previous rampage was resolved when they were flushed
out after repairs to the famous thatched roof in 1975 & the squirrels’ squeaking
activities seemed a thing of the past. Now they have found a haven between the
outer and inner roofs of the tiled chancel. So in warm and comfortable surroundings
the squirrel squatters again scramble about as the congregation lifts its voices in
song.
1952

The County Council considered the development of Swann’s Lime Pits, Cherry Hinton,
as an armament testing range and research establishment. Coun Rackham deplored the
possibility of explosions taking place at the back of the adjoining school. As well
as the noise the blast runs along the ground and shakes doors and windows. People
have had to replace ceilings that have been shaken down. It was suggested the
company use their explosives on the huts up Madingley Road where they would soon
clear the ground and everything would be lovely.

c.45.8

1927

A Lt Downham farmer died after a serious accident at his home. He had been
attending to his electric lighting plant and his clothes had caught in the large
fly wheel which threw him violently to the floor where he was found unconscious. He
had been a great sportsman. Those who attended Pymoor Sports could never fail to be
impressed by his inspiration. He was always a “live wire” and offered a field as a
playground for youngsters.

1902

Dr F.W. Hutchinson of Cambridge made an ascent with Mr Graudron, the aeronaut, from
the grounds of the Crystal Palace in a balloon of 38,000 cubic feet capacity, to
make observations with respect to the presence of bacilli in the upper reaches of
the atmosphere. He took with him eight samples of sterilised gelatine and exposed
them at different altitudes in order to capture stray microbes suspended in the air
over London. These he intends to bring to Cambridge and cultivate, afterwards
determining the nature of the bacilli he had collected.

c.26.1
Wednesday 30th January

1977

The international entertainment organisation, Mecca, has invited Cambridge City

Council to talk about possible future uses for the Corn Exchange, one of the city’s
main entertainment centres. Five years ago Mecca turned down a request, saying
Cambridge was too small to support a large-scale complex. Four years ago the
Council expressed interest in a massive facelift operation, but could not afford
the then £1.5m for the work and was unable to find a private backer. Coun. Garner
said: “It is often criticised as a white elephant, but it is surprising just how
many functions are held there. We would not want to lose this amenity”

1952

The CDN Radio Fund Committee discussed schemes which will give patients in
Addenbrooke's Hospital the best and most complete radio installation in Britain.
Every patient will have his own Pillophone
giving clear and undistorted reception to him, but inaudible to others, & his own
little control panel to change programmes. Another circuit could relay special
gramophone records, hospital or other local concerts and events. It might also
enable them to communicate with nurses. The installation will be sufficiently
complete for television to be added at some later date.

1927
Swavesey RDC have built eight houses under the assisted scheme and sites had now
been selected for six houses at Swavesey and four at Conington which was plenty for
that village. Over did not require any and Boxworth and Lolworth had 16 thoroughly
good cottages and there was no need for fresh houses. They had the Bourn water
supply put on. The cost to supply water to Hatley St George would be about £40;
were they justified in laying such a large burden on a small village with only
about a dozen cottages.

1902

A rabbit coursing and whippet race meeting was held in a field near the Milton
Road, Cambridge and some good sport was witnessed. There was a smaller programme
than on some former occasions. A good entry was received and some fine dogs were in
the field. A proposal has been made to organise a coursing society for Cambridge
and the idea is receiving considerable support.

c.38 : dog

Thursday 31st January

1977

A wave of soccer hooliganism swept across Cambridgeshire as hundreds of supporters

passed through the county on their way to three major matches in East Anglia. At
one time a convoy of 21 coaches carrying about 1,000 fans was escorted by police. A
whole coachload of Derby fans was arrested in Cambridge city centre and escorted
back to the Essex border after cars were damaged and occupants hurt by thrown
bricks, bottles and beer cans. Cambridge United’s Fourth Division clash with
Darlington at the Abbey Stadium was free from serious trouble but pubs reported
incidents as fans swept through the city. A soldier was injured outside the Still
and Sugar Loaf public house at the Market Square.

1952

The “Radio Doctor” visited the Cambridge Divisional Food Offices. Told that the
welfare orange juice was not sweet enough he said mothers should add sugar
accordingly. Sometimes there was plenty of tinned milk in Cambridge and sometimes
none at all; it was sent to isolated areas in the Fens where fresh milk is not
available. The meat ration had been cut from 1s.5d. because shipments fell below
expectation. The Minister did not intend to control the price of rabbits because
experience showed that when this was done rabbits disappeared – not necessarily
down their holes.

1927

Chesterton RDC considered filling up the pond at Girton. Half belonged to the
Wellbrooke Laundry, over which the Parish Council had rights, and half to the
Charity Trustees and if the pond was filled in it was essential they should waive
their rights to it. The matter was urgent because the Laundry, which abuts the
pond, had extended their premises. There was a quantity of building material they
were anxious to get rid of which could be used in filling up the pond.

1902

The wife of a vicar of a parish near Newmarket applied for a separation order in
consequence of his persistent cruelty. He had taxed her with having committed
adultery with a man in the village, saying “God has revealed to me that you have
been unfaithful as I drove back from my service”. He had repeated the terrible
charge daily since, not only in the presence of the servant but to others and it
had been torture to her. A witness said the wife had an excitedly violent temper
and a great way of nagging.

Friday 1st February

1977

Everyone – from nannies to kids – is getting in on the goat-keeping lark and

membership of the Cambridgeshire Goatkeepers’s Society has jumped by 50 per cent.
They say that more and more people want to do things for themselves and avoid the
impact of rising prices. Milk has become quite costly. Most of the goatkeepers keep
their animals in pens and let them out in their back gardens for exercise.
Unfortunately goats prefer roses and blackcurrants to keeping the grass in trim.

1952

Does the best food go to the colleges? Miss R.N. Small, the first woman Steward of
Caius college, was asked. Most colleges like to trade with local shops and the
quality had its ups and downs. The college could not afford to give poultry to
undergraduates more than once a term. While Fellows could give dinner parties in
their own rooms, undergraduates were only allowed the facility during May Week when
she made an all-out effort to help the men who wish to impress other people. It was
the custom these days for undergraduates to work off their hospitality by means of
stand-up sherry parties.

c.44.5

1927

The rector of Offord Cluny has died from injuries received in a heroic effort to
save his ancient rectory from destruction by fire. He had just retired to bed when
he was startled by cries from his wife who had gone into an adjoining room for a
Turkish bath. The bath is enclosed in a wooden cabinet and heated by a methylated
spirit lamp which suddenly burst into flames. The rector fought the fire until he
had overcome it – but at the expense of his life

1902

A man told the court he had been employed as foreman by a Coton farmer and it was
arranged that he should have 18s per week wages, one third of the rabbits he killed
and £4 for harvest money. During harvest he worked from 4.30 am to 9 pm and
received no extra pay. He went to the various shows and had to sit up at night with
the cattle. They were successful but he never received anything extra. He broke in
a cob and now claimed £1 for the work; a horse-breaker would have charged three
guineas.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 4th February

1977

Men stripped to the waist are continuing a chicory drying process used at a
Lakenheath factory 40 years ago. Mr John Fisher has brought Home Grown Chicory Ltd
and turned it into a profit-making business, carrying on where the combine, Rank
Hovis McDougall left off after three years. Farmers within a 20-mile radius grown
about 400 acres of chicory a year – all of which when dried goes to a coffee plant
at St Ives. More than 10 years ago the factory was handling three times the amount
of acreage and Mr Fisher hopes to encourage farmers to grow more. The main
alternative crop is sugar beet but chicory does not require any pest control
whereas the sugar beet farmer has to pay several pounds an acre to protect his crop

1952

There is serious trouble at Ely Cathedral. The ravages of the death watch beetle in
the nave roof have just been made good but now comes the news that the beetle has
been doing much more serious damage to the Cathedral’s famous lantern. It is
thought that restoration may cost as much as £20,000.

1927

The Cambridge Borough Surveyor reported that he had asked the authorities of St
John’s college if they would consent to the fence between the spinney and footpath
leading to the bridge at Burrell’s Walk being set back. The Bursar said they were
prepared to give up the spinney, containing 1,225 square yards, for the use of the
public. It was resolved to accept the offer with thanks and that the land should be
placed in charge of the Commons Committee. Magdalene college are prepared to set
back and re-erect the old wall in Magdalene Street on condition the Corporation
would contribute £160 towards the cost. Coun King drew attention to the
desirability of pedestrians being directed to keep on the left of the pavement, but
no action appears to have been taken.

1902

Coun Few drew attention to the extravagance under which county roads were
maintained by the County Council. It cost them £970 to superintend 242 miles of
county roads, which worked out at £4 per mile, but cost the District Council £955
for 481 miles - £2 per mile. In the Isle of Ely it was also a fraction over £2.
There were 15 parishes which had not a mile of county roads and he thought a more
economic system could be evolved.

Tuesday 5th February

1977

The Dorothy Continental delicatessen on the corner of Sussex Street, Cambridge,

ceased trading at the weekend. It was the last remaining part of the former Dorothy
restaurant and ballroom, sold by G.P. Hawkins in 1972 for £850,000. The Dorothy
contained a supermarket, restaurant, large ballroom and other rooms used by many
organisations for official functions. It was taken over by the Co-op in 1952. The
above-ground part of the Dorothy was acquired by Waring and Gillow, the London-
based furniture chain, the remainder now forms the Henekey Tavern. When the Dorothy
closed, Hawkins moved its outside catering section to the Alma Brewery site in
Russell Street.

c.27.4

1952

The possibility of Cambridge librarians co-operating in the attempt to compile a

union catalogue of all books in the University, City and County libraries relating
to the University, City and County of Cambridge was enthusiastically received by
members of the Cambridge Library Group. It would enable anyone to look for a book
which was to be found in any of 25 libraries. On the whole the college libraries’
catalogues of old books were not good & in two colleges the librarian had said it
was useless to rely on them.

c.77

1927

The Rendezvous placard trolley, which has so many times gone its rounds of the
streets of Cambridge advertising “thrillers” and “heart appeal” stories at this
cinema met with an ignominious fate at the hands of undergraduates. It was seized
by a party of merry gownsmen and pulled in triumph down Hertford Street and
Magdalene Street where they sought to dispose of it by pushing it into the river.
It fell on to the landing stage moored at this point but with undamped ardour the
undergraduates endeavoured by their united efforts to confine this “publicity agent
on wheels” to the cold depths of the Cam. Then, the last rites having been
performed, the revellers went on their way rejoicing.

c.76.9

1902

A new branch of trade has been opened by the buttery of Christ’s college, Cambridge
in the direction of a stationery store. The CDN has been favoured with samples, but
the party had omitted to enclose his name or even say when he intends to “call for
orders”. This omission is either intentional or points to a certain amateurism
pardonable in a new venture. The samples are small post quarto Club writing paper
priced at 1s.6d. per 5 quire packet; envelopes 1s.3d per 100 and writing paper with
the college arms embossed in blue at 2s. Can any Cambridge stationer improve on
these quotations?

c.25

Wednesday 6th February

1977

The villagers of Offord Darcy will shortly say goodbye to their most familiar
landmark – a railway carriage which has stood at the entrance of the village for
more than half a century. It is going to Kent to become part of a museum railway.
Mrs Joan Athow has lived there since she was a child until just two years ago. Her
grandfather bought the carriage when it was taken out of service in 1921. It was
build in the 1890s and did the London to Scotland run which passes through Offord
station, since closed down. Recently it began to deteriorate and they began to look
around for someone to restore it. The operation will cost around £2,000.

1952

Employees of Messrs Chivers & Sons saw themselves on the screen – in colour – at
the Arts Theatre. “The Chivers Story” tells of the work done at Histon and the film
is now being shown to grocers all over the country. Principally it is concerned
with jam making but the pure-bred hens and pedigree pigs, horses and cattle are not
forgotten. Glimpses are given of other aspects of the Chivers organisation – the
welfare side and the engineering department – and shots of a secret machine for
‘de-stalking’ black currants are included.

1927

The Rendezvous Dance Hall asked for an extension of the dancing licence. The hall
was built in 1909 as a skating rink and there was then no houses in Magrath Avenue.
Those who came to live there afterwards came knowing the hall was there. From 1912
it was used as a variety and picture hall and in 1915 was commandeered for the War
Office. In 1919 it was returned and conducted as a dance hall and cinema. In 1925
magistrates decided it should be open until midnight but there were complaints that
people leaving made a noise with their motors & cycles. It was the best dance hall
in Cambridge and now no one ever dreams of a dance ever terminating until 12. The
Guildhall and Masonic Hall had licences until 2 a.m.

c.76.9

1902

Cambridge council heard that no demand appeared to exist for public wash-houses and
owing probably to the facilities of bathing in the river. Ald Deck said it was true
that every house built now was provided with a bath but they did not come within
reach of some people who lived in old houses, of which there was a vast number.
Public baths would be a great advantage & not only to the working classes. There
was not a Turkish bath in Cambridge and a great many people had to go to London to
get one.

c.21.1
Thursday 7th February

1977

There are holes in the roof of old Peter Price’s home and he has no proper heating,
lighting, running water or sanitation. That is just the way he likes it. And he has
turned his nose up at what his new landlord wants to do with his tumbledown home –
one of seven derelict 18th-century cottages in Chilton Street, Clare. He is by his
own admission a rather unorthodox character & has lived alone in the cottage since
1948. He survives on home-grown vegetables and a crate of Guinness a week. His only
heat is an open-log fire over which a pot of “stew” is constantly on the boil. He
won’t say what he’s stewing.

1952

Nearly 1,000 college servants in Cambridge are being urged to join a trade union –
and enjoy the benefits of a first-ever “College Servants’ Charter” as a result of
the Industrial Disputes Tribunal decision affecting more than 80 workers at
Gonville and Caius college. Circulars are going out from the Transport and General
Workers’ Union to college employees, including bedmakers, cleaners, porters and
gardeners impressing on them the importance of “getting together”. Since the wage
claim at Caius was first submitted individual pay has gone up in some cases by as
much as £1 12.6. a week. A kitchen porter now gets £4.15s.0d. minimum, a maximum of
£5. A buttery man who received £5 now gets £6.7s.6d. There has been a £1 a week
increase for cooks.

c.32.1 # c.44.5

1927

Thirty years ago the Salvation Army tried to come to Newmarket, but they were not
well received. Now the town had reformed and was holding out its arms to them. They
had only been at work there for three years but already had outgrown their little
tin hut and were now launching a fund for the provision of a new permanent home

1902
Sir – Allow me to warn cyclists using Hills Road that if the large patches of
stones on the road tempt them to save their tyres by riding on the footpath they
will probably be taken by constables in plain clothes. I am told they use a
convenient post for observation, where they can watch the progress of cyclists
along the footpath. Their action can be expected to yield a good crop of cases
before the magistrates and fines of five or even ten shillings. Authorities who set
constables to pounce on cyclists have devised a mean and contemptible means of
employing a set of honourable men. This is against the spirit by which the law is
meant to be administered – G.F. Searle.

c.26.485
Friday 8th February

1977

Every one of four generation of the Reynolds family is a past, present or future
“rock king”. They are Mr James Robert Reynolds, aged 85, his son Jack, his grandson
John and his great grandson James Robert, seven. Jack still makes old-fashioned
brown rock – square, not lettered - in a tiny plant at the back of his shop in
Newmarket Road, Cambridge which he mans seven days a week.. He joined his father
when he left school at the age of 14. There have been “rock kings” in the family
for at least six generations. “It would be nice to see it go on – and every one of
them a ‘J’” he said.

c.27

1952

The CDN has added, for one week only, a new publication to the list of eight
newspapers which it currently prints each week – an American newspaper. “Brigade
Cavalcade” was produced to mark the first anniversary in the U.K. of the 32nd
Antiaircraft Artillery Brigade of the U.S. Army. Its editorial offices are a
battered war-time hutment overlooking the huge aircraft runway at Beck Row. After a
lifetime of spelling English in an orthodox manner it was difficult for our
printers to set words like honour and colour without the ‘u’, and the practised
fingers of a linotype operator rebelled against copy which insists that programme
should shed its last two letters.

c.04

1927

A momentous event in the history of extra-mural teaching at Cambridge University

was marked by the opening of Stuart House. Standing in Mill Lane it is a beautiful
house and a worthy addition to the architectural wealth of the town. It is named
after the Right Hon. James Stuart, Fellow of Trinity College, who founded extra-
mural teaching work in the University and was largely responsible for its extension
to other parts of the country.

c.36.9

1902

In at least one thing Cambridge is abreast of the times. She has the craze for
ping-pong, or to call it by its more dignified name, table tennis. For a long time
past the ping of the racket could be heard coming from the houses of the up-to-
date. By Christmastime ping-pong parties had become quite general, ping-pong clubs
were formed and now Cambridge has been brought into line with the metropolis by
holding a tournament. It was to be held at the Conservative Club, but owing to the
large entry it was decided to transfer operations to the Corn Exchange. The one
table reserved for ladies was always an attraction. The lady competitors, generally
in smart costumes, played a milder game, though there were some who would have made
the male sex jump about.

c.38 : table tennis

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 11th February

1977

Members of the Cambridge & District Skittles League see themselves as men of great
skill and dexterity, pitting their wits against other eight-man teams in a three-
dimensional game that has its own terminology. They hurl, toss or spin a flat,
flying saucer-shaped cheese at a table resembling a large, sparsely padded armchair
upon which are spaced nine wooden pins. Each player has a maximum of four throws to
demolish as many as he can. The dedicated band of serious skittles players are a
dying breed. Gone are the days when coachloads of players used to arrive long
before the game to limber up.

c.38 : skittles

1952

With traditional pageantry Queen Elizabeth II was proclaimed from the steps of
Cambridge Guildhall and inside and outside the Senate House on Friday morning.
Some inkling of the news of the King’s death had reached one or two people in
Cambridge before the BBC announcement. As the news began to spread small groups of
incredulous people stood discussing it in the streets. By mid-day Cambridge had
become a city of flags. Gas Company men excavating in Park Terrace expressed their
sympathy by fixing a Union Jack at half-mast from the ropes surrounding the hole
they had made in the road. At Pye Ltd’s factory the machinery was stopped so that
all the 2,000 employees could heard the announcement over the internal loud-speaker
system by Mr L.W. Jones, Words Director.

c.02

1927

The Great Chesterford Rat and Sparrow Club dinner was told that 2,845 sparrows had
been killed, against 7,135 in 1925 and 6,527 rats against 8,600. The society was
doing good work in keeping down the vile rat. The sparrow was also a pest but it
did good when in search of caterpillars. They hoped the other side of Saffron
Walden would form a club as it was hardly fair that one district should take steps
to keep down the number of rats and sparrows and others do nothing at all.

1902

We have all heard of the rise of ping-pong as well as predictions of its decline
and fall. It would appear that Cambridge people, who were not behindhand in the
appreciation of the attractive game, have already lost some of their liking for it.
The opportunity that the Imperial Ping Pong Tournament offered to local players to
compete for handsome prizes valued at 45 guineas has not been extensively accepted.
At no time during the evening was there a very large attendance.

c.38 : table tennis

Tuesday 12th February
1977

The machinery from the old watermill at Little Wilbraham, disused for more than 40
years, is being restored and re-assembled at the Cambridge Museum of Technology,
Cheddar’s Lane, by watermill enthusiast Chris Hereward. Hawks Mill was discovered
during a survey of industrial relics in the area and the farmer agreed to donate
the machinery to the museum. Mr Hereward managed to transport many of the parts in
his Mini van – although the ton-and-a-half main drive shaft had to go by trailer.
Some of the ironwork bears the stamp of a local agricultural engineer, S. Long of
Fulbourn.

1952

Long before the arrival of the ten-coach funeral train bearing the body of King
George VI, large crowds had gathered at the main vantage points along the line at
Ely to pay their homage. At the station crossing hundreds of people assembled on
both sides, whilst lines of traffic extended for some distance. Heads were bared as
the train rolled smoothly through the station. Workmen who had given up part of
their dinner hour and American servicemen were amongst the crowds. At the little
village station of Waterbeach about 100 housewives, farmworkers and children
gathered. A crowd of more than 800 people lined the marshalling yards on either
side of Mill Road bridge, Cambridge. The long black funeral coach, with all its
windows blacked out passed exactly on time. Queen Elizabeth II gazed pensively out
of a carriage window as the train passed a group of railwaymen standing caps off
near Hills Road bridge.

c.02

1927

Since the Cambridge Conservative Club in Market Passage had been destroyed by fire
there had been many busybodies who knew exactly what was going to happen to the
club premises and the site. The Chairman could now tell them: it was going to be
rebuilt and rise like a Phoenix from the ashes. A very satisfactory arrangement had
been made with the Northern Insurance Company and they had today received a cheque
from the company.

c.44.6

1902

The smallpox case from Richmond Road, Cambridge, has been transferred to the
smallpox hut in Coldham’s Lane. All steps have been taken to minimise the future
dangers. The clothes and the whole of the bedding have been destroyed and the house
thoroughly disinfected.

c.21.1
Wednesday 13th February
1977

Planners took a long hard look around Cambridge to see where development could best
be accommodated. They soon dismissed Histon or Girton because they have relatively
limited potential for longer-term growth. At Milton there is considerable
opportunity for expansion within the new road framework. Both Bar Hill and
Waterbeach possess characteristics suitable for growth, but Cottenham is less
accessible to Cambridge. Growth of up to 4,000 might be contemplated in the
Teversham-Fulbourn area and the same at Bottisham. To the south it would be
possible to develop the Clay Farm area of Trumpington and the Shelfords but Sawston
seems to have the greatest development potential

1952

The Royal Train bearing the King’s body from Wolferton to King’s Cross had two
local men as its crew. The driver was Mr S. Harding who first drove the Royal train
when the King came down to Trinity, and the fireman Mr C. Pearman from Weston
Colville. Also on the train, as fitter, was Mr W.H. Simmons of Kelvin Close,
Cambridge. Another local link is that the stationmaster at Wolferton, Mr Bernard
Hodge, was formerly in charge of Whittlesford Station. At Cambridge South signal
box The Welbeck Abbey, a Sandringham class engine, spick and span in polished olive
green, was one of three trains standing by on the route in case of breakdown on the
journey

c.26.2

1927

The Rural Planning Sub-Committee is preparing a scheme to submit to Cambridge

Council – not only for the area around its borders but including all the villages
from Histon to Stapleford. It was important at a regional survey should be made
now, before unconsidered development complicated the problem too much.
Questionnaires sent out to the Women’s Institutes had brought valuable suggestions
of things to be preserved. The County Council was considering a comprehensive
scheme.

1902

The memorial window to the late Mr James Hough is now complete and the church of St
Benedict is in possession of a work of art which will be a constant reminder of a
Christian life. It is a three-light stained glass window immediately over the
altar, designed by Arthur Savell of London and Regent Street, Cambridge.

c.83

Thursday 14th February

1977

Reservoirs planned for Abbotsley and Great Bradley are no longer shelved. They were
temporarily abandoned when the Government gave in to pressure for a Wash
feasibility study. A decline in population, coupled with high costs have meant that
any such scheme is now unlikely so Anglian Water Authority engineers are looking at
the schemes again to find out how they compare in cost. Any revival of the Great
Bradley scheme will be met with bitter opposition. When the plans to flood the 200-
acre valley were first proposed 10 years ago the parish made the strongest protests
possible and villagers believed the threat to their livelihood was dead. At
Abbotsley parish councillors promised there would be violent opposition to the
plan.

1952

There are happy memories of King George VI’s undergraduate days at Trinity college,
Cambridge in 1919-20 when with his brother he sojourned at “Southacre” in Latham
Road. In 1922 he unveiled the war memorial in Hills Road and attended the Royal
Show at Trumpington & in 1932 he opened the new wing for children and private
patients at Addenbrooke's Hospital. His last visit was last year when he attended
the Service of Thanksgiving at King’s College.
c.02

1927

The work of maintaining a pictorial record of the streets and buildings of

Cambridge is greatly facilitated by modern photography and much credit is due to
those enthusiastic amateurs who perpetuate these important historical records.
There are some excellent examples of the work of the Cambridge Photographic Club on
exhibition at the Borough Library and the short time required to view the
photographs will not be wasted.

c.65.5

1902

Swavesey Rural District Council considered the recent smallpox epidemic. Each
division must provide its own isolated building for such cases. Each councillor had
been asked to look around their parishes and see if they could find a cottage
sufficiently isolated to serve as a smallpox hospital in case of emergency. No one
seemed to have discovered such a spot. The St Ives district had purchased a couple
of railway carriages which were being used. It was proposed that two such carriages
be purchased by the Council.

Friday 15th February

1977

After more than 200 years, the great elm avenue at Wimpole Hall, has now almost
completely disappeared. The 202 elms had become so old and diseased that
administrators were forced to call in contractors to fell the entire three-quarter-
mile section of the avenue that stands on Wimpole land. The task has taken months
and now little more than logs survive to tell the tale. Now the work of re-planting
with lime trees will begin

1952

As the King’s funeral procession was winding its slow way through London’s streets,
hundreds of Cambridge people at similar services in the city joined in Britain’s
mourning for her late Sovereign. City and County combined at Great St Mary’s church
where a separate University service was held later. About a thousand people filled
the church. Most of the men wore black ties. The scarlet robes of City aldermen
provided the one touch of colour; even the gilt of the maces was subdued by a
draping of black. The service was relayed to an overflow gathering in the
Guildhall. A crowd of some 300 people gathered on the Market Place for the two
minute’s silence. As the maroon exploded men removed their hats and heads were
lowered.

c.02

1927

Some eighty or more men and women cycled, “bussed” or walked over to Histon to
watch jam made on a large scale at Messrs Chivers’ Orchard Factory. It was the
first organised visit by the Cambridge Workers’ Educational Association. They felt
the last word had been said in mechanical efficiency without in any way de-
humanising the workers who seemed cheerful and busy. Numerous question were plied
as to the conditions of labours, the psychological effect of repetition work and
the way in which a one time seasonal trade had been brought to its present stage of
regular employment all the year round. The next visit is to the Tapestry Works.

1902

Cambridge Electric Supply Company reported that they would probably outgrow the
present site, in Thompson’s Lane. They had secured a site at Chesterton, situated
at the side of the railway line so they would be able to bring coals into the yard
and they had also arranged for the use of the river and the road. The site would
not be required yet but as no other spot on the river was so placed they were
justified in buying the land.

c.24.6

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 18th February

1977
What kind of shopping facilities will we see in Cambridge in the future? If recent
events are pointers then the small operator will be replaced – just as quaint non-
conformist Petty Cury was replaced with the corporate dullness of Lion Yard. The
rents jumped enormously leaving the high mark-up multitudes – Golden Egg, Dixons,
Van Allen, Etam, Chelsea Girl et al to take the units paying between £3,000 and
£18,000 a year in rent. It meant that the variety of shops was reduced. If the Kite
complex proposals were to see the light of day then an identical effect could
occur.

c.27.2

1952

The first man to drive a bus from Cambridge station to Chesterton has died at
Peterborough. He was Mr T. Aldham who had been employed by the old Ortona Company
where he rose from the ranks to be a senior driver and subsequently traffic
foreman. Shortly after the Eastern Counties Company took over in 1932 he
transferred to Peterborough. At the funeral Mr A. Darby represented Mr J.B.
Walford, the original owner of Ortona and there were several of his old colleagues
including Messrs R. Peat, A. January, W. Harding and H. Bullock

c.26.46

1927

A suggestion to the Chief Constable that a small parking place should be made in
Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, may lead to archaeologists being less inconvenienced
than hitherto. One of them was summonsed for obstruction. PC Hagger stated the
defendant put his head out of the Museum of Archaeology & explained he used his car
to take specimens to the museum for demonstration purposes and it was difficult to
know what to do with it during the lecture. He was fined 10s.

1902

The National Skating Association were able to bring off the British Amateur
Championships at Lingay Fen. The ice at the start was in a fair condition but the
sun coming out quickly affected it. In the final Albert E. Tebbitt was very quick
at the start and left his opponent, F. McGuire of Boston, a long way behind.
Cheered by the spectators he showed surprisingly good form, considering the state
of the ice and won easily, amid considerable enthusiasm

Tuesday 19th February

1977

Children at Barrington are raffling a patchwork quilt they have made of village
life. Mrs Diana Howard, the deputy head, and Mrs Pauline Pearson were the teachers
in charge of the needlework classes that made the quilt. It is made up of 56
different pictures. It took over a year of craft afternoons to finish and was made
by second, third and fourth-year pupils. Now it will be going on a long tour of the
village before it is raffled. The money will go to buy equipment for the school
playground

1952

The music of the Quadrills, Gay Gordons and Dream Saunters echoed from the
Guildhall when the Cambridge branch of the British Limbless Ex-Servicemen’s
Association held their second annual ball. Host and hostess were Mr & Mrs V. Brown
& 300 people enjoyed a night of old-time dancing. At the end of the evening the
limbless men present mounted the platform and the entire company sang “God Save the
Queen” in honour of the accession of Queen Elizabeth II

1927

The newly-formed Cambridge Housing Society has lost little time in getting to work.
It has obtained a site in Green End Road, Cambridge and plans for 22 hoses have
been approved. The houses are to cost about £420 each and are to be let at a weekly
rental of 5s.6d. It is hoped to have them complete by September.

c.23

1902

The Isle of Ely county council Highways committee considered the re-building of
Aldreth bridge; they recommended sharing half the cost with Cambridgeshire county
council, upon the Lord of the Manor of Haddenham finding the other half. It was not
only the question of building the bridge but of maintaining it in the future and
relieving the Lord of the Manor from further responsibility. The Chairman said they
were in a very awkward position and he had made up his mind not to sign his name to
the contract or the cheques

Wednesday 20th February

1977

The Three Horseshoes, Madingley is not the place to visit for lunch-time unless you
are prepared to pay around £1.50 per head to sample the inn’s delicious home-made
steak and mushroom pie. The price does not seem unreasonable when you are invited
to dig into at least four bowls of mixed salads and then pick up a chunk of bread
and butter. Cheaper dishes are available. Drinks are priced at 30p for a pint of
beer and 35p for a glass of wine. Coffee with cream is served in the bar at 25p.

1952

Sixteen patients were moved to safety when fire broke out in the nurses’ quarters
at the Evelyn Nursing Homes, Trumpington Road, Cambridge. One of them was 102 years
old. The Fire Brigade tackled “the biggest job for a long time” and brought the
fire under control. Chief Fire Officer, Mr Tom Knowles, paid a tribute to the
conduct of the nurses: “They were cool, calm and collected and completely
unflurried; they might just have been making a cup of tea”, he said.

c.21.4

1927

Ely Rural District Council have offered the County Council part of a field in the
parish of Stretham if they are prepared to construct a new road across it
connecting the road from Wilburton to Stretham with the Cambridge Road. It would be
a main road, 60 feet wide and the Ministry of Transport would make a grant of 50%.
The Surveyor said there had been an alarming increase in road traffic during the
winter months with a consequent increase of damage to the roads.

1902

The funeral of the late Mr William Chivers took place at Histon. It had many times
been said that he was the best-loved man in the county. In the village signs of
mourning were to be seen on every hand; all places of business were closed and at
every house blinds were drawn. Most of the inhabitants were attired in black and
those that were not so wore some emblem to testify their respect for the deceased.
Nearly 2,000 were present either at the graveside or at the Baptist church

Thursday 21st February

1977

Business was brisk at Zacharama, three new Cambridge student travel centre when the
first customers slipped in before the official opening by the Vice-Chancellor, Miss
Rosemary Murray. It has been started with a £5,000 loan from Cambridge University.
The travel service can be used by both students and the public, but some services
will only be available on production of college identification. Profits will be
used to repay the loan and provide student facilities both in the university and at
the technical college

1952

An appeal for information about the visit of the famous American dwarf known as
General Tom Thumb had brought a number of letters. Mr A.E. Reeve recalls that
during his visit in March 1846 he was shown in the morning for half a crown for
members of the University and in the evening for one shilling for townsmen. But the
undergraduates ignored the morning opening and crowded out the ‘townies’ during the
evening show. A town and gown row followed. Mr E. Saville Peck has lent one of Tom
Thumb’s visiting cards that he found amongst his old papers belonging to his mother
who went to see him at the Town Hall

c.76

1927

A craze for driving cars lead to the appearance at Cambridge Police Court of two
youths who were charged with stealing petrol and oil used while having a joy ride
in stolen cars. Terence Gray of Gog Magog House said he had left his car at the Sun
Street parking place, Newmarket Road, Cambridge; when he went for it it was
missing. The Chief Constable said he had received numerous complaints from people
who had left their cars there. The prisoner said: “I did not intent to steal it. I
have a craze for driving cars. We have had three”.

1902

Newmarket Gas Company shareholders heard that the Working Men’s Conservative Club
had given orders to have the gas fittings taken out and electric light substituted,
but after using it for two years it had proved to be unsuitable. The electric light
fittings were pulled out and the incandescent gas was installed. The club now found
their gas light was costing less than half of what the electric light did and they
were getting a far better light

Friday 22nd February

1977

Cambridge open-air market traders have slammed the city council’s decision to close
the underground lavatories on the Market Square during the day. It will be most
inconvenient for the many fruit and veg sellers obliged by health regulations to
keep hot water on or near their stalls. They now face a hundred yards walk to the
Lion Yard super loos, described as the most palatial in the country. But women
stall holders can face up to half an hour’s wait during the summer tourist season.

1952

The first BBC television play to be directed by a Cambridge-born man was seen on
Thursday. It was “The Prisoner”, a new play by Andrew Cruickshank, produced by Ian
Atkins and directed by Julian Amyes who is an Old Persean and brother of Mr S.J.
Amyes, news editor of the CDN. He began his professional stage career after leaving
the University in 1939 & was President of the University Mummers in 1938-39

c.27.82

1927

The dedication and formal opening of the new buildings of Soham Grammar School at
“Beechurst” took place in the conservatory in the presence of a crowded assembly.
The people of Soham were very proud & jealous of their school. They now had the
opportunity for providing a secondary school with a rural curriculum to fit its
scholars for a rural career. It showed the value parents attached to the education
given in that school as the farmer would keep his son at school just as long as
anybody else.

1902

Sir – Verily the doing of Cambridge Town Council are marvellous. They have
recommended the installation of the electric light in the Corn Exchange “owing to
the representations made to them by ‘corn merchants and others’ using it”. I should
have thought they would have known that corn dealers can only carry on their
business by daylight and it is impossible to buy and sell corn by electric or other
artificial light. Moreover the business of the Corn Exchange is all over by 4.30,
so what do they want the electric light for? If the council thinks it necessary to
light it by electricity by all means let them do so, but they should not talk
nonsense as they do when they say the traders want it. – J. Toosher

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 25th February

1977

Miss Kitty Willers, for more than 60 years a bellringer at Trumpington parish
church, has died at the age of 78, having lived her whole life there. Her cycling
and bellringing feats established her reputation as something of an eccentric.
Until recently she would think nothing of cycling hundreds of miles. Once she
refused offers of a lift to Loughborough to see the church’s new bells being cast.
When the church party arrived at the foundry they found Miss Willers there already
as part of the reception committee. She had started cycling at four in the morning.

1952

Three American Servicemen had narrow escapes from serious injury when the jeep in
which they were travelling from Lakenheath crashed into the wall of the Old Mill
House opposite the Bull Hotel at Barton Mills last night. The house, however, did
not come off so well. The occupier, Squadron-Leader T.H. Sproule said: “The jeep
ploughed straight into the room, taking the wall with it”. In the winter of 1947 a
heavy lorry skidded on the same part of the road and crashed into the house with
the same disastrous result.

1927

“The first marriage according to the new Prayer Book” was solemnised in Cambridge
when an undergraduate “bride” and “bridegroom” were joined together in unholy
matrimony on King’s Parade. The blushing bride with the bowing bridegroom was
preceded by a piper and a clergyman who was wearing “flannel bags” under his
surplice and carried a doll’s sunshade. The bride’s dress was a pair of white lace
curtains and she carried a large bouquet of Brussels sprouts. The bridegroom wore a
dilapidated silk hat and a red nose – and carried a banana. They stepped into a
waiting carriage followed by a motley through of ludicrously attired “relations and
friends”

c.39 # WOMEN # c.36.9

1902

Caxton and Arrington RDC have agreed on the erection of an isolation hospital in a
building near Old North Road Station. It is to contain two wards, with six beds in
each, together with administrative department, nurses’ room, kitchen etc. As a
necessary complement to the hospital an efficient ambulance will be provided. There
can be no doubt that for some cause the death rate from cancer is increasing;
Huntingdonshire has the unenviable notoriety of having the heaviest death rate from
cancer of any county in the kingdom

Tuesday 26th February

1977

A train derailment has put a freight line from Cambridge to St Ives out of action.
An engine pulling nine wagons left the rails at Fen Drayton. The train driver and
guard escaped unhurt as the engine ground to a halt – leaning over only feet from a
flooded field. One theory is that the recent flooding had loosened ballast under
the rails, causing them to slip sideways. The line is used mainly to transport sand
and gravel from the Amey Roadstone Corporation works to London and will disrupt
shipments of thousands of tons of sand and gravel
1952

Veterans of the Boer War will meet in London to mark the anniversary of the relief
of Ladysmith. It was on that night that the last really big bonfire was started on
Cambridge Market Square. Old horse buses, “growlers” filled with tar and straw,
market stalls – all went to feed those triumphant flames whose heat cracked every
window in the Market Square. The number of Boer War Veterans in Cambridge is now
very small. The doyen of them all, Capt. A.E. Longley, now in his 82nd year, will
have only one Cambridge comrade – Mr J. Collings – at the reunion.

1927

Lord Bledisloe said there was knowledge emanating from Cambridge University which
was of unparalleled benefit to agriculture and was unequalled in any part of the
civilised world. This was a district of very good land – when it was not under
water – (laughter) – and of good farmers who were on the road to bankruptcy. They
were passing through the most critical period the industry had to face since the
depressing times of the 1890s, but the knowledgeable farmer could keep his head
above water and be proud of doing it.

1902

We understand a Ping Pong Club, open to residents in the New Town district of
Cambridge has been started. The large room of the New Town Conservative Club,
Russell Street, has been secured, and two Whitmore patent tables are provided. The
hon secretary is Mr E. W. Illsley of 23, Bateman Street

c.38 : table tennis

Wednesday 27th February

1977

From 7 a.m. a business-minded man was to be found standing all day at Earith lock,
poised to leap into action as cars spluttered to a halt in more than a foot of
floodwater. The price for motorists who lost the gambol to get across the 150-yard
section of waterlogged road was £1 for a push out and clean-up with a rag, £2 for a
tow out with a Landrover. The ‘get you out’ service has been in regular operation
for a number of years and is lucrative: “If they can’t pay we’ll take anything:
watches, foreign currency, cheques”, he said. By evening there was cut-throat
competition from two enterprising schoolboys from Bluntisham; they had made £20
during the week.

1952

The “Homewash Laundry” in Abbey Street, Cambridge, was almost completely destroyed
by a disastrous fire in the early hours of yesterday morning, but already plans are
being prepared to rebuild the premises. Mrs Kathleen Morgan, proprietress, has
received so many offers of help from other laundries that the normal run of
business is being carried out. Salvage workers today reported that a proportion of
the laundry on the premises has been saved. This includes sheets, handkerchiefs,
socks and all the stiff dress shirts and collars.

1927

Compared to other towns Cambridge is badly off for fire equipment; we have only one
motor fire engine whilst other places have two or three. The Chief Constable has
recommended the purchase of a new “Dennis” 250-gallon Light Type Engine at a cost
of £880. It will be more useful in the narrow streets than a larger type whilst the
“First Aid” attachment can be got to work so expeditiously that small fires would
be put out before the main hydrant could be coupled up. Will the council be
convinced or will the question of pounds, shillings and pence be uppermost in their
minds?

c.34.75

1902

Advert. New Year’s Register. Sales & approximate price. Residences: De Freville
Avenue £350, Guest Road £400; Mill Road £425, Hartington Grove £425, Malta Road
£425, Huntingdon Road £450; Villas, Cherryhinton Road with land £850; modern town
residences £1,000; terrace near Mill Road, (let for £100) £2,000; Country residence
about 3½ [THREE AND A HALF] acres, near station G.N.R. £2,000

Thursday 28th February

1977

The BBC plans to open a local radio station in Cambridge as soon as the Government
gives permission for an extension of local broadcasting. At present it runs 20
local radio stations, mostly in the densely populated industrial areas of the
country but would like to open a further 45, of which one would be in Cambridge.
Four years ago two local radio consortia were formed with the aim of applying for a
commercial broadcasting station licence as soon as these became available.

1952

Councillor Stewart Todd Bull has been nominated as the next mayor of Cambridge. He
is the owner of the well-known firm of dairy farmers, Messrs J.M. Bull & son. When
Cambridge was attacked by enemy aircraft in 1941 he was amongst those in Hills Road
who were bombed out. He is a man endued with the spirit of public service and after
helping to look after the affairs of the city he frequently climbs Castle Hill to
keep a watchful eye on the County Council.

1927

Hearty congratulations to Mr A. Townsend, the Assistant Town Clerk, who has

completed 50 years’ service with Cambridge Corporation. Hard work and a cheerful
disposition have contrived to keep him young. The Town Clerk presented him with a
silver cigarette case. Two more officials have completed 40 years’ service. Mr N.C.
Hedge joined the Town Clerk’s department as an office boy and never left, while Mr
H.E. Foster joined at the same time but later transferred to the Treasurer’s
office.

c.35.7

1902
The Cycle and Motor Show at the Cambridge Corn Exchange has undoubtedly “caught
on”; those who do not cycle are a steadily decreasing minority, while motorists are
daily increasing in number. Messrs Macintosh are exhibiting a Sunbeam Mabley Motor
Car which is a very handsome-looking vehicle with several distinctive features. The
riders are in a position to face each other, although occupying different ends of
the motor. The car is not of extraordinary width and can be manipulated with the
greatest ease; a small exhibition run was made even on the limited floor space of
the now-crowded Corn Exchange
c.26.48

Friday 1st March

1977

The hopes of setting up a World Mushy Pea Eating Championship were well and truly
dashed at the Five Bells public house in Cambridge. The blame for the collapse of
their record attempt was put on the peas themselves. “You just wanted to be sick,
they were so foul”, said landlord George Low. “They were so terrible no one could
eat them. I was looking to eat 10 bowls-full myself but could only manage two”. The
processed peas were provided free by a commercial soup firm. Despite this Mr Ronald
Toates managed to down nine bowls-full to win an impressive trophy provided by
Cambridge Catering Equipment

1952

Complaints that disturbances outside the Rex Ballroom at night were driving some of
the local residents “absolutely crazy” were made at the renewal of its licence. A
resident said: “The Rex seems to attract a peculiar type of people who don’t seem
to be able to go away without causing complete bedlam to everybody in the
district”. The proprietor said “The University Proctors visit on Tuesday and
Saturday evenings; they always look in, look around and say we run the place very
satisfactorily. He was in touch with the Provost Marshalls of the R.A.F. and U.S.
Army. He had asked for policemen to be on duty but was always told they did not
have enough.

DANCE

1927

Dr Francis Shillington Scales one of the foremost radiologists in the country has
died. He was appointed medical officer in charge of the X-ray department at
Addenbrooke's Hospital and made much of the apparatus himself. He had an extensive
private practice in the special branch of medicine to which he had elevated
himself, and had an elaborate X-ray apparatus installed at his residence in Adams
Road

c.21.4

1902

How often is the extremely low-priced machine a pitfall and a snare to the unwary
novice. Glittering plate and enamel make it as attractive as the more reliable
cycle, but also serve to hide a crowd of defects. The sensible cyclist knows that
good value can only be obtained in one way and Messrs J. Howes and son of Regent
Street, Cambridge have proved that good value is the foundation of good business.
Their own bicycle, the Granta, is a fine piece of workmanship constructed with the
greatest care. Now that the free wheel has come to stay, brakes have become
absolutely essential.
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

c.26.485

Monday 4th March

1977

Somersham villagers are pleased to announce the departure of their old railway
station. The disused wooden buildings claimed to be a potential danger to children
are to be knocked down. But this does not mean the end of the line for the century-
old station. A mystery businessman is having it turned into a mammoth jigsaw puzzle
– to be erected more than 100 miles away near a small private railway line in
Berkshire. The parish council chairman said: “We hope whoever it is takes a liking
to the signal box as well. That needs to go too and then there will be no danger at
all.”

1952

The Minister of Housing and Local Government has dismissed the first appeal to be
made against a decision of the County Planning Department on a building elevation.
It relates to the de Freville Arms public house at Gt Shelford where the applicants
proposed adding single-storey projections on each side. The main issues were the
design of the roof & central door and the removal of bay windows.

1927

Sir – I read of the sale of the old-established grocery and provision business of
Hallack and Bond. It is regrettable that the ownership of another great business
passes away from Cambridge. To many the name has been a by-word and a guarantee of
quality and good service through the personal supervision of people resident in
Cambridge. This must become a serious menace to the welfare of the town and all
good citizens should avail themselves of the service ably rendered by locally owned
firms - Loyal Citizen

c.27.2

1902

Everyone in Cambridge knows the Maypole in Portugal Place, kept by Mr Rowell, the
renowned pedestrian who holds the championship of the world. They will be sorry to
hear that Mrs Hetty Rowell has not been enjoying the best of health lately; in fact
she has been suffering from disorder of the kidneys, for which she has been taking
Doan’s Backache Kidney Pills. “I have so much improved that I cannot speak too
highly of the pills”, she says. A free sample. Send 1d stamp for postage and a
sample will be sent at once. Mention Cambridge Daily News – advert.

Tuesday 5th March

1977

Mr Dick Dunford of Waterbeach is a firm believer in hoof-power and would prefer to

have his horse, Fred, than a smart car any day. He comes into Cambridge on a
shopping trip, riding along the A10 from Milton. When they arrive Fred will happily
stay put at any convenient car park, meter or cycle rack. Mr Dunford pays the going
rate at meters and has never got a parking ticket: “The traffic wardens like him”,
he said.

1952

Magistrates were told that police had visited a Cambridge cinema while a category
‘A’ film was being shown and found a total of 42 children in the first five rows
who were unaccompanied by adults. The average age was 12 and there was one child
about six. The manager said it was a difficult business to keep them out. The
children were undoubtedly there but when they had paid to go in they were
accompanied by a person over 16. He was fined £15 and told if there were further
cases the licence would be withdrawn.

1927

The chief engineering feature of regional planning will be a new ring road all
around Cambridge about two miles from the centre of the town. One length would be a
road running north and south joining the Hills Road with the Newmarket Road, a
length of about three miles. Certain roads and bridges were contemplated to obtain
an inner ring road around the central portion of the town. Mr C.H. Tebbitt said
that what had been done haphazard in the villages was the joy of the countryside
and he wondered what would have happened to these beauty spots if they had been
regional planned.

c.26.48

1902

The Cambridge Review refers to the conduct of three undergraduates whose behaviour
disgusted all respectable people at the New Theatre. But the acts to which
reference is made – loud talking during the performance, inopportune laughter and
the evident watchfulness for double entendre – are condemned by the great body of
undergraduate theatre-goers. To drag an offender out during the middle of the play
would cause disturbance and annoyance to the audience. Mr Redfern has instead
reported their names to their tutors who have seen that punishment has been
administered. The few silly young men who still act in this way will find it
prudent to amend their manners.

c.76

Wednesday 6th March

1977

Cambridge councillors are considering a new plan for building large numbers of low-
price houses. A major building company would build houses to a standard design on a
number of council-owned sites; the council would prepare the land, put in sewers
and build estate roads. They would then buy the houses from the builders and sell
them to young people living in council houses or who are on the waiting list. The
plan is linked with a savings scheme aimed at giving first-time homebuyers enough
money to put down as a mortgage deposit. Coun. John Powley said: “We are determined
to give as many of our tenants as possible the opportunity of buying their own
homes – and this is a new way of doing it”.

c.23

1952

In its ten years of existence the John Hilton Bureau at Cambridge has dealt with
three million enquiries. Working in conjunction with a Sunday newspaper the Bureau
staff, comprising 40 men and 100 women in dozens of professions deal with topics
from income tax to wills made in Yugoslavia. Part of its work is to right some of
the injustices of the Welfare State.

1927

An important step in the activities of the Cambridge Trades Council and Labour
Party was taken when approval was given for the purchase of premises in Norfolk
Terrace for party headquarters at a cost of £975. The building was a substantial
one with a very large hall & offices. There was a large piece of ground suitable
for a bowling green. They could have a hall over the top of the present building
and convert the bottom portion into a really up-to-date club. It would serve as a
real “home” for members of the party.

c.33

1902

Sir - Cambridge Corporation has its roads cleaned between the hours of eight in the
morning and five in the evening. As soon as the roads become busy a one-horse
sweeping machine makes its appearance and begins to sweep the mud from the centre
of the road to within three inches of the kerb, and there leaves it for 36 hours.
By that time the public have removed it on their clothes, or it has been splashed
on the front of adjoining houses, or else the Corporation employ a few boys to
sweep it into nice heaps which they leave at some place that it is convenient for
the public to step into. But should there by any chance be any left the Corporation
kindly send two men and a cart to remove it – Grateful Ratepayer

c.29.8

Thursday 7th March

1977

Winmau Darts is to move from its factory at Haverhill because it was unable to find
premises in the town large enough to cope with booming export orders. The Rockwood
Way factory will be closed in an effort to streamline production, bringing the
manufacture of dart-boards and darts under one roof. They have tried to find
alternative sites in Haverhill but have not come up with anything suitable and are
looking at King’s Lynn, Bury St Edmunds or Sudbury. All 85 workers will be affected
but the company is hopeful that as many as possible will remain with the firm.

1952

Fulbourn Hospital is to make economies in the diets for patients and staff. Halibut
or plaice for staff meals is to be discontinued with cod supplied in lieu and the
quantity reduced from 5 oz to 4 oz per head per meal. Lunch (bread and luncheon
meat, coffee or cocoa) at present supplied to all working patients will be replaced
by bread and jam & dripping, when available, will be issued in lieu of jam for
lunch. It meant eating food that was not so pleasant, but the nutritional values
would be almost the same.

1927

The Ely Medical Officer said an epidemic of influenza had started on the male side
of the infirmary with no means of isolating the cases. There were 30 cases in the
male sick ward, six inmates in the House who could not be admitted to wards for
lack of accommodation and two nurses on the House staff. In addition they were
asked to take in nine cases of influenza from outside on one day. The closing of
the female side of the infirmary to visitors, except in cases of extreme illness,
had delayed the spread of infection for some weeks, but it had now broken out on
that side too. There were 12 deaths in the infirmary, three directly due to
influenza

1902
A small pox case from Richmond Road, Cambridge, has been removed to the small pox
hut in Coldham's Lane and all steps taken to minimise any future danger. The
clothes and the whole of the bedding had been destroyed and the house was
thoroughly disinfected. The public vaccinator had vaccinated persons willing to be
vaccinated

c.21.1
Friday 8th March

1977

Two youths mugged a 71-year-old spinster in Cambridge for the sake of 20 pence. The
lady, who has a weak heart, was attacked from behind as she walked down Union Road
and her bag containing 20p, an old-age pensioners bus pass and a blue torch was
wrenched from her hands. A senior CID officer called it a nasty, cowardly attack on
a defenceless old lady. Plain-clothes officers checked pubs and police dog-handlers
scoured the area but their search drew a blank.

1952

Concern has been expressed at the absence of any regulation for the compulsory
fitting of suppressors to electrical and other motors. Noise levels in Cambridge
have gone up many times since 1939 while day and night thousands of new electrical
motors and devices are being put on the market to make matters worse. More and more
television and radio owners are having their programmes interfered with because of
this nuisance, although it is possible to suppress this interference at the cost of
only a shilling or two.

1927

Cambridge Library Committee recommended that steps be taken to provide reading

rooms in Chesterton and Cherry Hinton. At the time of amalgamation in 1911 it was
one of the conditions that Chesterton should be given a public library. At Cherry
Hinton they had in 1924 prevailed upon the council to provide a public reading
room. It was hoped to set up a small reference library at each. Suburban Cambridge
was growing rapidly and they were a necessity.

c.77.4

1902

It is one of those purely agricultural villages which struggle in unequal rivalry

with the urban prosperous population. Crops of barley, peas and roots are not
sufficient attraction to country folk who steadily migrate to industrial centres.
The church is not pretty, the covering is peeling off in places though the interior
is in good repair and of cheerful aspect. But unfortunate domestic troubles at the
vicarage resulted in justices granting a judicial separation and the Bishop of Ely
has declared the living vacant. The vicar has been, as it were, expelled from the
parish. “I really do not know what I shall do. I have formed no plan”, he said,
adding that a prominent parishioner had done everything in his power to make things
unpleasant and try to drive him out. [Village was Cowlinge]

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 11th March

1977
Cambridge City Football Club’s move to quite the Southern League for the Isthmian
League third division brought a blazing Milton Road mutiny last night. City
chairman Laurie Boost was presented with a petition of 221 names calling for the
directors to reverse their decision – or resign. Manager Roy Johnson announced he
would quit at the end of the season, club secretary John Aves, groundsman and
trainer Bill Brignell and even ball-boys Paul Craft and Philip Butler said they
would follow suit if the directors stick to their decision. The players also
repeated their view that none of them would drop into the Isthmian League with
City.

c.38 : football

1952

Chipperfield’s Circus opened on Midsummer Common, Cambridge. A whole collection of

animals show their paces and tricks including polar and grizzly bears, African
lions and horses, while a “cowboy round-up” brings plenty of action. It goes with a
Big Bang, especially the sensational final item, by Les Raluys, in which a man and
girl are shot together from a big cannon, landing in a net on the other side of the
ring. If the bang doesn’t take your breath away the flight of the human cannonballs
will.

CIRCUS

1927

An inquest was told how an 82 years old lady, who had fallen, was moved about from
one institution to another until she had, against her relative’s inclination, to
find a last refuge in the Cambridge Workhouse Infirmary. Addenbrooke's Hospital had
said she was noisy and disturbing the rest of the ward and could not be detained.
She was sent to the Infirmary from which she was removed to the Devonshire Nursing
Home by her relatives. But they said that whenever she moved she cried out very
loudly on account of the pain and was too noisy to keep. So she was returned to the
Infirmary where they diagnosed a broken rib.

c.32.9

1902

Joseph Poole’s Myriorama, now showing at Cambridge Guildhall, takes the form of a
tour round the world. Much is made of the South African war and the mechanical
sound of the canon roaring enhances the realism of the spectacle. Particularly good
is the battlefield by night and a bivouac on the veldt. The tour ends in a grand
display depicting shipping in which are faithfully portrayed some of the principal
vessels in the navy.

c.38

Tuesday 12th March

1977

The RAF Hospital at Ely, whose future was in doubt because of defence cuts, will
stay open, thanks to a decision by the Cambridgeshire Area Health Authority to help
with its costs until there is a substantial expansion of National Health Service
facilities. Closure of the hospital, which carries 65 much-needed NHS beds, would
have a serious effect on hospital provision. They also pledged to keep the
maternity service in Ely going should the Defence Department give them notice to
quit the Grange Maternity unit

1952

Over 4,000 people rose suddenly to their feet at Chipperfield’s Circus. It was near
the end when the only double cannon act in the country was taking place. The two
performers had entered the cannon and been shot into the air but as they fell the
safety net gave way and they hit the ground. As there was no serious injury to
either performer the act will go on as usual tonight.

1927

Cambridge Women Citizens’ Association heard that a cats shelter should be provided
in Cambridge for the reception and humane destruction of neglected, starved
diseased and homeless cats. Mrs Norman Mason said last year 478 cats were brought
to the home but the council had now ordered the shed to be taken down. Now if a pet
cat was brought in they had nowhere to keep it and it had to be chloroformed.

c.19

1901

Another case of smallpox has occurred at Cambridge Prison, Castle Hill. The spread
of the disease is a mystery. The first case was in a prisoner from Maidstone.
Prompt isolation followed. Another was found suffering from an infectious disease
diagnosed as scarlet fever and he was moved to the Sanatorium. Other symptoms
developed and he died. A few hours after a warder was smitten with smallpox and now
there is a fourth case, a prisoner confined in the gaol for several months.
Elsewhere infection has been traced to letters that have come from London where the
epidemic is now raging. At Cambridge gaol mailbags are repaired in large numbers.
They come from all parts of the country and may have carried the microbes that
cause the disease.

c.21.1

Wednesday 13th March

1977

The experimental mini-roundabout at the junction of Newmarket Road and Coldham’s

Lane, Cambridge was working well on the first morning of its operation. Even at the
height of the rush hour traffic was flowing smoothly. It has been put in
temporarily while the traffic lights at the junction are being taken down; they
will eventually be replaced with more up-to date lights as part of the Newmarket
Road improvement scheme. Police Chief Inspector Maurice Murden said: “To think our
problems have been solved by an old tractor tyre! It is something we have advocated
for years, and now we just hope that it will become permanent”. One driver said his
driving time to his home in Chesterton had been cut from 20 minutes to five.

c.26.48

1952

Following a visit to Swann’s Lime Pit, Cherry Hinton, city councillors raise no
objection to its continued use as a small-calibre range for armour-piercing
projectiles, providing that any additional buildings are erected in the deeply-
excavated position and that nothing larger than a six-pounder gun is used – so long
as it is fired only in the morning & preceded by a warning.

c.45.8

1927

Pungent remarks were made at Saffron Walden council on the unsatisfactory rail
services on the L.N.E.R. There were widespread complaints about unpuctuality and
persons had threatened to leave the district in consequence. The time taken by the
railways to deliver coal was scandalous and in many cases men had been stood of
because it was impossible to get delivery of goods. The railway companies were
given a charter by the Government and if they were unable to provide a better
service they should be compelled to hand over control to someone else.

1902

Dr Dalton said that in the case of smallpox taking a real hold upon Cambridge the
very fact of waiting two or three days for vaccination would be the cause of more
cases. He would prefer to pay for vaccination rather than pay for the erection of
new smallpox huts. He hoped more people would go openly to the public vaccinators
to show it was not accompanied by any taint of pauperism; some believed they would
be vaccinated with purer vaccine than they would get if they went to their own
medical men.

c.21.1

Thursday 14th March

1977

The church of St Andrew the Great, Cambridge, could be turned into a community
centre or a restaurant, but planners have rejected its use as a shop or offices.
The church is one of a number which Diocesan authorities wish to declare redundant.
The Australian High Commission expressed concern about its future because it
contains a memorial to Captain Cook and a number of people protested against the
closure of a Christian place of worship. Another suggestion is that it should be
converted into a mosque for the city’s 400-strong Moslem population.

1952

The booming of a six-pounder gun in a Cherry Hinton lime pit found its echo inside
the City Council chamber when some members protested against the use of Swann’s pit
as a Ministry of Supply small calibre range for testing armour-piercing projectiles
in the middle of a built-up area. But Alderman Doggett said he had stood within
three or four feet of the weapon and was not ‘disturbed’ – “although it was true we
had our. fingers in our ears. There is really very little we can do and it wouldn’t
be of much use objecting”, he said.

c.45.8

1927

Cambridgeshire Education Committee discussed Swaffham Prior Church of England

School. The church trustees were prepared to build a new school for junior children
and infants, the older children being sent to Burwell. A deputation wanted a
Council school, suitable for all classes and ages but it was not their policy to do
that sort of thing.
1902

Newmarket Justices considered a right of way from Ashley to Moulton along a drift
road that shortens the journey by about two miles. The road led to nowhere and in
order to reach the high road again it was necessary to trespass on land belonging
to Sir Ernest Cassell. It was for the accommodation of two gentlemen and the
cottagers on the farms. The difficulty only cropped up since building operations
commenced at Moulton and workmen have used the drift as a short cut. Some palings
were put near the gate at one end to make it unclimbable but the men smashed them
down. The Justices decided the men believed they had a right of way and dismissed
the case.

Friday 15th March

1977

A novelist told how a surprise trans-Altlantic telephone call to her Cambridge home
ended her days as an impoverished aspiring writer – with the news that she had
become a millionairess. Australian-born Colleen McCullough was holding a small
party for friends in her flat when her literary agent called from New York to say
the rights to her novel “The Thorn Birds” had been auctioned for £1,117,000 – the
most ever paid for a paperback.

1952

A world-wide appeal for £60,000 has been launched to cover the cost of repairs of
considerable damage caused by the Death Watch Beetle to Ely Cathedral. It was last
October when renovation of the Nave roof was nearly completed that evidence of the
beetle’s ravages was discovered in the Octagon and Lantern. Now further examination
has revealed other damage to the roofs of the beautiful Lady Chapel, Choir, belfry
and transepts. In some cases to replace or strengthen honey-combed oak beams great
masses of lead will have to be lifted and completely re-cast. It is expected that
work will take four or five years.

1927

The owners of the Playhouse, Mill Road, Cambridge, have just completed negotiations
for the sale of that cinema to a syndicate who are said to be the owners of the
Central Cinema and the Tivoli. We understand that the transfer will take place in
September. The Picture Playhouses Ltd, who owned the Playhouse, also have property
in Sussex Street and they are also disposing of this.

c.76.9

1902

Sir – A man from the Cambridge prison, which they knew to be infected with
smallpox, was admitted to the Sanatorium and yet no precautions were taken in the
way of vaccination. His nurses passed into the room day and night. I object
strongly to the want of promptitude in telephoning me as soon as smallpox was
suspected so that I might be aware of the possible danger and be able to take
precautions. I would not allow my patients to go to the Sanatorium if they are to
be exposed to such risks – E. Lloyd Jones.

c.21.1
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 18th March

1977

Residents in some of South Cambridgeshire’s small villages which do not yet have
main sewerage, could still be stuck with their cesspools and septic tanks in the
year 2,000. Among schemes which do not now appear in Anglian Water Authority’s
programme are the Balsham & Teversham treatment works extensions and the Sawston
Deal Farm pumping station. This means West Wratting and Weston Colville cannot go
on to main sewerage and new housing at Sawston is in jeopardy.

1952

A home-made gun made out of pieces of wood and lead tubing lay on the table in
front of a 16-year-old Polish boy as he told the Cambridge coroner how a bullet
from it had killed a fellow schoolboy at the Polish Boy’s College, Bottisham. The
top of the bullet with a charge of 50 match-heads behind it passed through the door
of a Nissen Hut, pierced the window of an adjacent hut ten yards away and hit him
in the head.

1927

A donkey of diminutive proportions caused a good deal of excitement in the Fen

Causeway, Cambridge. A CDN reporter saw it pulling a small four-wheeled cart on
which was seated a well-built young fellow. Then he heard shouts and was amazed to
see the driver lying on his back on the pavement and the little animal vigorously
stamping on him with its tiny hoofs and making lunges at him with its teeth.
Passers-by hastened to the young man’s help by which time the donkey was standing
as quiet and unconcerned as though it had been rooted to the spot all its life. It
then obediently carried its owner to Addenbrooke's Hospital to receive treatment.

1902

A regrettable occurrence took place in Mill Road, Cambridge; beasts from Kingston
were being driven to the slaughterhouse in Tenison Road when one bullock became
excited. It ran away near Donkey common and charged a twelve-year old girl, tossing
her as high as the top of a street lamp. Miraculously no bones were broken but
there are slight internal injuries.

Tuesday 19th March

1977

For the Cambridge disco pub, the Plough and Harrow in residential Madingley Road,
the dancing is over – and another venue for city youngsters loses its attraction.
Brewers Tolly Cobbold have decided not to appeal following objections from people
living in expensive property nearby. One resident said: “We are all academic and
professional people around here and need quiet to be able to work. We don’t spend
money on alcohol because we haven’t got it. We spent it on books and things”. The
county councillor said: “I think the pub could do very well as an eating house;
many people would like somewhere to go for a quiet drink without feeling out of
place”.
1952

A thin shaft of sunlight momentarily falling upon the heads of choirboys and the
robed clergy coincided with a solemn act of dedication and remembrance at Great St
Mary’s church, Cambridge, at the unveiling of a tablet bearing the names of six men
of the parish who fell in World War II. Furnishings in St Andrew’s chapel were also
dedicated as a memorial by the Bishop of Ely.

1927
An exceptionally well-attended meeting of Royston ex-Service men enthusiastically
agreed to form a branch of the British Legion. The election of officers took place
including President Lieut-Col E. Phillips, chairman Lieut-Col Danyon, secretary
H.G. Harris and committee members E. Bonnett, A. Woods, H. Mowberry, C. Wilkin & W.
Blows

1902
Sunday was a great day amongst the Roman Catholics of St Ives and neighbourhood.
For the past two years they have worshipped in a wooden building in East Street.
Now the former church of St Andrew, Cambridge, which was pulled down in 1894, has
been secured, removed and re-erected at St Ives. The ceremony of laying the
foundation stone took place in the presence of a vast concourse of people. The
original church was somewhat deficient in light but this will be remedied by a
clerestory light over the altar. The new building will be known as the Church of
the Sacred Heart

Wednesday 20th March

1977

Jerry Bol, the one-man-band, will not be performing his eye-catching acts in
Cambridge for the next few weeks; he is off to his home country, Holland, for a
round of engagements and an appearance on Dutch television. He has spent almost 30
years here but says: “Things have been pretty tough lately and I was tempted by the
offer. But I love busking in Cambridge and I don’t want to stop”. He began busking
for a living two years ago and since then has made numerous television appearances.

1927

Landwade church is small & dates back to the 15th century but today there is only
Lord St Davids and a few labourers in the congregation. Some wonderful old armorial
glass which was taken away by the Cotton family has now been handed back. Its re-
erection will enormously add to the interest of this unique old church but the
stonework of the window is so much decayed that it will have to be restored. The
summer services begin usually on Easter Sunday but this year, owing to the repairs,
it will not be possible to open so early in the year.

1927

Undergraduate singers and musicians are distinguishing themselves just now.

Following the enjoyable broadcast by the Trinity Madrigal Club I hear that the
Quintaginta Band are to appear at the Holborn Empire during Boat Race week. Mr
Charles Gulliver who heard them whilst on a visit to Cambridge has made them “a
tempting offer” to appear in one of his halls in the Eastern vacation. The salary,
however, is not stated.
c.69

1902

Cambridge councillors considered possible sites for public baths, including

Mackenzie Road, Quayside and Castle Street. The most suitable is Christ’s Pieces.
In order to provide a good swimming bath, length baths, a Turkish bath
installation, together with boilers etc a sum of £8,000 would have to be expended,
exclusive of the purchase of the site. £500 a year would be required for
maintenance. In view of the half-hearted character of the public meeting they could
not recommend expenditure of so large a sum of money

c.21.1

Thursday 21st March

1977

Steeple Bumpstead’s hunting vicar threw about 30 young anti-bloodsports

demonstrators out of his church when they began chanting during the Mother’s Day
morning service. The vicar took the banner-waving and horn-blowing outside the
church in his stride until a group of demonstrators joined the congregation of
about 30 parishioners. They filed into the front pews but refused to acknowledge
the service until the end of the first hymn when they stood and sang “All things
bright and beautiful, all creatures great and small; all things wise and wonderful,
the vicar kills them all”.

1952

A Cambridge man appeared in court as a result of a wheel coming off a car while
rounding the Clock Tower in Newmarket. Shopkeeper William Shepherd said that it
shot through his glass shop door and came to rest by the counter. The driver told
him he would pay the costs of about £2.6s.0d. A garage fitter who examined the car
said he thought the wheel had been “running loose” for some time. The driver said
the car had just been overhauled and he had driven from Cromer. The case was
dismissed.

1927

It must be 25 years since the seats and fences of Clare Hall Pieces were burnt on
the Cambridge Market Hill. With the increasing number of visitors the lack of seats
on the Backs is often felt and now that Cambridge attractions are being advertised
the placing of seats in this favourite spot, where so many visitors go to view the
west elevation of King’s Chapel would be appreciated by many.

1902

The fifth annual race promoted by the Cambridge Cross County Union was decided over
the county course. The competitors having been photographed were send on their
journey. The Champion of the County, F. Hewish was the first man home. C.A.
Mitchell ran well for the second place and H.H. Stacey was third. The Albert
Institute Harriers who won the first race in 1898 got all their men home in the
first seven

c.38 : athletics

Friday 22nd March

1977

Cambridge University Tiddlywinks Club now has 21 members. In action in a dingy cold
room upstairs at the Castle pub, Castle Hill they slouch on all fours over the felt
mat playing area and talk intensely of tactics using weird words like bristolling,
crudding and squopping surface. To a certain extent the dedicated members of the
winking world feel under threat, their skills unrecognised by the mocking,
unwinking masses, but say that tiddlywinks can give back health and mental
stability to those who are ravaged by the complexity and over-mechanisation of
modern life

c.38 : tiddlywinks

1952

St Andrew’s church, Cherry Hinton, has raised £1,700 to remedy the ravages of the
death-watch beetle in their old timbers. The roof tiles have been stripped and the
belfry floor renewed. Plans are being prepared for a new Parish Hall on the Mowbray
Road site, a portion of which would be used as a church. Mr F. Linsey has retired
from the position of organist and choirmaster after 18 years.

1927

Micawber, Tony Weller, Uriah Heap and other famous Dickensian characters stepped on
to the Cambridge Guildhall stage. Their creation in the flesh was the result of the
wonderful art of Bransby Williams, the world-famous impressionist and Dickensian
who was making his first appearance in Cambridge. It was all very wonderful and did
more to establish an image of the great novelist’s creations than the most
imaginative reader could ever have gained from reading the books from whence they
came.

PICKWICK

1902

Sir – A beautiful permanent memorial of the Coronation year would be the building
of a bridge at De Freville Avenue. The Avenue is planted with elm trees on each
side, the houses are all substantially, and some very tastefully, built; they are
all set back and have flower gardens in front, making a very attractive approach to
the proposed new bridge. It would provide a safe road for children attending the
best Cambridge schools and provide the nearest way to Newmarket Road and the
Railway Station, thus benefiting labourers, working men, college servants etc. The
more bridges there are built over the river the more surely you bind communities
together to the advantage of both Cambridge and Chesterton – F.R. Leach

c.44.7

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 25th March

1977

Cambridge & District Co-operative Society’s plan to expand the Beehive complex,
which was turned down by the county planners, has been given the go-ahead by the
Department of the Environment. The scheme, using the former Cadbury-Schweppes
warehouse near Coldham’s Lane will provide an extended shopping space, a garden
centre and leisure goods sales centre. The Inspector said that as there were still
no definite plans for the Fitzroy/Burleigh Street redevelopment the Beehive scheme
would meet some of the shopping need without detriment to the city centre.

c.27.2

1952

Claude Hulbert, the loveable comedian, heads the cast at the Arts Theatre,
Cambridge in his brother, Jack’s production of the famous farce, “Nothing but the
Truth”, which ran for 578 performances in London. The Hulberts have many
associations with the area. Sons of an Ely doctor both came to Caius College and
were enthusiastic members of the Footlights Dramatic Club. Jack appeared at the
Arts in “The Hulbert Follies” with his famous wife, Cicely Courtneidge, in July
1941, while Claude had a notable success in “Worth a Million” when he co-starred
with Edmund Gwen and Ruby Miller.

c.76

1927

The Charleston shows no signs of waning in popularity at the Premier Dance Hall,
Chesterton, and still reigns supreme among the habitués there. In fact this dancing
habit has become so much of the place that one sees more uniformity in the style
than at any other hall in Cambridge. On Saturday evening Manning’s Band were in
their usual good form and played extremely well. Miss Robinson must be one of the
last jazz pianists in the town at present.

c.69 # DANCE

1902

A wife told Royston court that she had gone into the Buffalo’s Head at Wicker Hall
and asked her husband if he were coming home. He replied that he should come when
he liked. About 11 o’clock he came home and on getting indoors commenced to swear
and struck her with his fists. He took two tumblers off the shelf and threw them at
her. She went across the room to get a small glass mirror to throw back at him and
as she was turning round he struck her in the head with a knife. She said: “You
have struck me in the head, Charlie”. He replied: “Serve you right”. The husband
said: “I did throw a brick at you after I got outside the house. But you threw a
brick at me first. I did not interfere with you until you interfered with me”. He
was committed for trial.

Tuesday 26th March

1977

Residents of Kingsmead Park Waterbeach complain they are jolted out of bed to the
thud of heave machine-gun fire and the ear-splitting crack of high-powered SLR
rifles and the birds have emigrated. The Army rifle range is right outside their
bedroom windows & they are fed up with the day and night war games fifty yards from
their caravans. The Army say that owing to the Northern Ireland situation all
soldiers are required to fire a personal weapons test and that moving the range
would be too expensive – it was there before the caravan park.

1952

Joe Kester has died at Chesterton Hospital at the age of 104. On his last birthday
he was surrounded by five generations of his family. He was born at Kingston in
1847 but moved to Hardwick as a baby and lived there for 98 years. He remembered
when his mother could take a shopping bag the size of a pillowcase to the shops and
get it filled for 3s. (15p). He was six when he started work, tending the geese,
chickens and turkeys and earned 6d a week. He had only candles for lighting and a
tinderbox to light them with. Joe enjoyed a half-pint of beer a day & used to say:
“I lived well, worked hard and had plenty of ale and fresh air. Hard work never
hurt anybody”

1927

The Chief Constable has no objection to private motor cars parking on Ely Market
Place, but did object to motor ‘buses. If they allowed one ‘bus to park there it
would be difficult to stop others, and there could not be any hardship for a bus
setting down passengers at the Public Room for a dance and then parking at Barton
Square or St Mary’s Street. Market Square parking was for use by private motor cars
only and only available on days other than market days and fair days.

1902

Sir – with regard to the Clock Tower Permanent Memorial which it is proposed to
erect at the Hills Road end of Station Road, Cambridge. I cannot see the need of
such a clock there as I am quite sure anyone can see the clock at Hyde Park Corner
from Station Road. Would it not be more beneficial if it was placed in the centre
of Parker’s Piece? It would not only serve the cricketers and footballers but would
be of great boon to the working man as he passes two and fro – F. Miller

Wednesday 27th March

1977

Drugs are part of the attraction that brings hundreds of teenagers flocking to an
all-night disco held every month at the St Ivo Recreation Centre, St Ives. Police
say they set up roadblocks and enough drugs had been seized from vehicles to supply
all 800 youngsters at the disco. But the promoters say there is no indication of
widespread drug abuse and all they have found is one tablet in the cloakrooms. It
was the second biggest disco in England & they attracted 14-18 year olds from all
over the South. He had once tried to run an all-night discotheque in Cambridge but
had found drug taking was rife and wouldn’t go back there because of the problem

1952

“King-pin of the Cambridgeshire Beekeepers Association”, Mr David Moore, known to

many as “Uncle David”, has just retired as secretary after 16 years. He had built
up the membership from 100 to 648 in ten years though his whole-hearted devotion
and enthusiasm and an intensive programme of personal calls on beekeepers all over
the county. He started a Queen Breeding Station and arranged participation in honey
shows and the formation of the East Anglian Federation.

1927

Cambridge Guardians were asked whether they were prepared to receive maternity
cases in their new ward, and if so at what cost. There was a great shortage of
maternity accommodation; negotiations had been going on at Addenbrooke’s and
arrangements made for a maternity ward to be built. Even then there would still be
a need for beds at the institution. In a town the size of Cambridge a separate
maternity home was needed.

WOMEN

1902

A disastrous fire occurred at 56 Bridge Street, Cambridge, occupied by William

Agger, glass and china dealer. When the Fire Brigade arrive they found flames had
obtained a great hold on the interior and the peculiar construction of the house
made it difficult to get the hose at work. They succeeded in confining the damage
to the one house, though the woodwork of the next building was scorched by the heat
of the flames. Had the fire occurred at night the occupants would have had a very
small chance of escaping as the fire swept the middle of the house clean through.

Thursday 28th March

1977

Motorists were caught on the hop today as snow spread across almost all of East
Anglia. The A45 was blocked near Newmarket when a tanker crashed at the Red Lodge
petrol pumps & an unladen tanker overturned near the Four Went Ways. The Chatteris
to Ely road was almost blocked & at Haddenham a baker’s van slithered across the
road. Police say there have been inundated with reports of hold-ups and accidents.
Villagers at Hardwick were still without electricity at lunchtime, 11 hours after
power went off. Parts of Papworth and Eltisley are also without supplies.

1952

When Chesterton RDC acquired land to erect 2,000 council houses in “necklace
villages” in order to accommodate the “over-spilled” population of Cambridge they
should obtain sufficient land to allow for private building as well, said a
councillor. Council houses were subsidised to the extent of £35 12s. and building
private houses would ease the financial burden. The sewerage of the parishes of
Milton and Great and Little Shelford was already in and they should be the first
villages to be developed. Fulbourn, Stapleford, Harston, Barton and Coton were also
on the priority list.

1927

The death of Col Thomas Walter Harding, the High Steward of Cambridge, will
occasion widespread regret. He was a most agreeable person, blending a courtly
dignity with a rare courtesy and kindness. He purchased the beautiful Madingley
Hall in 1903 and two years later took up residence. He found time to bring out a
romance entitled “Tales of Madingley” in 1912, which has been widely read. In 1901
he presented a jewelled badge for the use of the Mayors of Cambridge. The Mayoral
chain was presented by his father in 1890.

1902

Three men were charged with breaking into a warehouse in Fitzroy Street, Cambridge
and stealing a quantity of oranges, the property of Messrs Sturton Bros. Detective
White said he found a box with three compartments, two were full of oranges, the
third was empty. There was a quantity of orange peel on the warehouse floor. He
eventually went to a house in Brunswick Walk where the wife showed him some
oranges. Later one man admitted the offence. The men were remanded in custody, an
application for bail was refused.
Friday 29th March

1977

Motorists pushed and fought their way to the petrol pumps in a panic-stricken rush
to fill up before prices rose. Service stations were forced to close to save their
remaining stocks and stop the motoring stampede. When news of the increase was
announced on the radio Holland’s garage, Cambridge, was one of the first to be
besieged. A line of traffic stretched halfway along Mill Road and motorists,
jealously guarding their place in the queue, were not even letting other cars out
of the garage. At Huntingdon one petrol pump attendant said motorists had appeared
to have “gone berserk” at the budget news

1952

Damage estimated at £4,000 was caused by a fire at Cottenham when a building

belonging to Messrs Cavender and Clark was completely gutted by flames fanned by a
gale force wind. Part of the Granta Works the building contained machinery and wood
used in the manufacture of the firm’s principal products, collapsible canoes. A
large export programme is carried out by the firm and this will inevitably be
curtailed. Now work previously carried out by machine will have to be continued by
hand.

1927

Comberton, which made itself laugh very heartily over a mock trial two years ago,
staged a similar piece of amusing make-believe when the village institute put on
the dignity of a “police court” and the Vicar sat in judicial pomp over the hearing
of a sensational burglary case involving the theft of a pearl necklace. The
“prisoner”, who described himself as “a bit of a farmer and a bit of a dealer, said
he was in the habit of collecting eggs by aeroplane. He admitted having a drink at
Eversden – “such a slow place” - and admiring the barmaid. He was discharged and
advised in future to keep clear of bars and barmaids

1902

Folk have different ways of observing Good Friday. Devout church people spend some
part of the day in church, chapel-goers attend meetings in the evenings, and many –
the great majority – spend the day in health and recreation. Quite early – ere the
vendors of the indigestible bun had ceased their rounds – cyclists rose and by the
time ordinary stay-at-homes had broken their fast were enjoying brisk rides into
the country. Many of them look forward to Easter as a time when “the craze motion”
can be gratified. The Wanderers Cycle Club took advantage of the bright light to be
photographed in a club group.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 1st April

1977

When Wandlebury reopens after nine month’s closure visitors are in for a shock.
Torn apart by gales, laid waste by drought the 52-acre estate has something of the
look of a battlefield. The once-familiar walks have been devastated, whole new
clearings created and a major avenue of trees wiped out. Nearly 60 mature beech
trees were lost in the January gales last year; the drought accounted for at least
another 148 trees. Warden Bill Clark has spent the last 15 months in a one-man
battle to put things right and make the area safe but fears he will go on finding
many more trees which will have to be felled

1952

en was still cut off by snow this morning and has been without milk since Saturday.
The driving wind which accompanied the snow have created huge drifts around the
village. Speaking by phone from the Post Office Mrs Walsh said: “We are completely
snowed up. They tell us we shall be lucky if the road is cleared by this evening”.
The heavy snow has piled up on the rooftops and percolated beneath the tiles,
causing considerable discomfort. Tiles have been ripped off roofs and people have
been forced to move their beds downstairs. Everyone was busy shovelling snow.

1927

The Overseers of Cambridge have come to an official end & the passing of this
ancient institution was celebrated at the Dorothy Café. It used to be their duty to
help any poor person by granting relief without asking any questions, to be called
in cases of suicide and take charge of mental cases. When they rated houses it was
remarkable the very small value owners placed upon their own property. They
sometimes felt it would not have been a bad thing if they could have bought the
house at the price just stated by the owner. (Laughter). They had been in existence
about 300 years they were handing over their duties to a Borough going back 700
years.

c.32.9

1902

At Haddenham the disputed chairmanship of the parish council continues. Neither

side will give way. The past 12 months have proved a period of unrest during which
meetings have been held again and again without any progress being made. The latest
phase of the ‘crisis’ was the annual parish meeting but after a few moments it was
clear any attempt to hold a meeting would end in failure. But for a few public-
spirited individuals who have provided lights the village would be in darkness.

Tuesday 2nd April

1977

Anglian Water Authority-owned eel fisheries should be offered in lots of sufficient

size to allow a proper commercial enterprise to operate, but this may force out
traditional companies. Eel fishermen already have to be licensed in Cambridgeshire
where there is a tradition of eel fishing around Earith and Littleport but many
waters are worked “unofficially”. Waters are becoming more over-fished every year;
Dutch companies are keen to take as many eels as they can and smoked eel sells at
£4 [FOUR POUNDS] a lb [POUND] in Holland. If one of the present fishermen paid for
an official lease he might police it more thoroughly and offer more protection for
the fishery.

1952

en, cut off by the blizzard of the week-end, was relived when Council workmen
carved a one-way traffic line through the eight and ten-foot drifts on the main
Dullingham Road. One of the first people in the village was the milkman bring the
first supply of fresh milk since Saturday morning. Thirty-three snow ploughs have
been called into action to assist 27 villages in the Newmarket area. Five
passengers who were stranded when an Eastern Counties bus was abandoned at
Wickhambrook were put up for the night by people in nearby cottages and did not get
back to their homes at Burwell until the afternoon. Then they had to walk over
drifts that were often 10 to 12 feet high.

1927

Cambridge Council will debate the site of King’s and Bishop’s Mill, Mill Pool. Two
years ago the buildings were dangerous and have been demolished. They had a scheme
to beautify the area by leaving it open & constructed a new weir with facilities
for getting boats from the lower to the upper river. Now the University has offered
to purchase the site for erecting lecture rooms.

c.46.5

1902

Thomas Askham applied for a licence for the public performance of stage plays at
the Circus of Varieties, Auckland Road, Cambridge and presented a petition of 900
signatures in favour. The Committee would recommend it on condition that the old
buildings were pulled down, that electric light was placed throughout and at least
four hydrants connected with the water supply. Plans would have to be produced. Mr
Askham intimated his willingness to do so.

c.76

Wednesday 3rd April

1977

The volcano of violence that is Dave “Boy” Green erupted in an elemental awesome
display of action fighting at Wembley. Proud Union Jack bearer, John H. Stracey,
had as much chance as the citizens of Pompeii. Green, a threshing machine with eyes
blazing like headlights swarmed all over him, punching him to a standstill. Hooks
to the body and muckspreader rights to the head exploded from him as he poured on
the pace and the Londoner capitulated to the remorseless punishment of the
Chatteris champion’s bombing punches.

1952
Meadlowland Methodists in Cambridge revealed a venturesome spirit when, in driving
snow, they dedicated the site of the proposed new church and offices. The simple
service was conducted in the East Barnwell Community Centre & Coun Herbert Finbow
cut the first turf. Mr Henry Hughes, the architect, explained a model of the new
building which will present an impressive aspect when viewed from Newmarket Road.
Finance will come in part from the sale of the Tabernacle Church.

c.83

1927
A small group had a very enjoyable trip to London on one of the new Varsity Pullman
motor coaches which it proposed to run daily between the metropolis & Cambridge &
Oxford. The handsome saloon coach provides plenty of elbow and leg room for 20
passengers, completely enclosed and protected from the weather. Small mahogany
tables can be raised at will for dining and other purposes. Balloon tyres and four
wheel brakes are fitted and at all speeds the coach travelled smoothly and
steadily. The journey to the West End was accomplished in 2¼ [TWO AND A QUARTER]
hours.

c.26.46

1902

Chesterton U.D.C. had asked the Prison Commissioners to provide accommodation for
small-pox patients at Cambridge Gaol but they did not see their way to do that and
urged the local authorities to provide room for the patients in their own
accommodation. Chesterton would be prepared to place the small-pox hospital at the
disposal of the gaol authorities but felt the prison should guarantee expenses and
pointed out the difficulty of the safe custody of the prisoners.

c.21.1

Thursday 4th April

1977

Haslingfield’s new Methodist church was officially unlocked by the oldest member of
the congregation, Miss Grace Huddlestone, for many years organist at the old
chapel. It will have as its minister the Rev Denzil Sutcliffe of Royston. Standing
in part of what was once the Manor House garden, the new church replaces a century-
old building which is being retained for use as a creche.

1952

Everyone in Linton is talking about Arthur Starling, a retired coachbuilder who

lives alone in a dusty, deserted-looking house in the High Street. When he
collapsed and was taken to Linton Hospital neighbours investigated his dingy living
room. They found a barrel cracked and full of woodworm – and silver coins, six
hundredweight of them. In another box were golden sovereigns and bank notes, some
no longer legal tender, total value £4,000. Arthur has recovered and gone home but
his money was handed over for safe deposit in one of the village’s “Fridays only”
banks. Meanwhile his shop still looks deserted and gaunt; the front door has not
been opened for years and the windows are so dirty they may have been made of
opaque glass.

1927

Great St Mary’s church council replied to the Corporation’s plans to widen St

Mary’s Street. They cannot sanction obtaining a faculty for the proposed work as
increased heavy motor traffic coming so close to the church will be a very real
danger to the safety of the foundations and fabric. Widening the street would
create a death-trap and they propose to adopt every means in their power to prevent
the scheme being carried out.

c.44.6

1902

Newmarket council heard that the Jockey Club would grant the free use of the
steeplechase stands and grounds for the coronation celebrations. It would be
infinitely better than the Portland stand as they were covered and undesirables can
be kept out better. There was also, if necessary, cooking accommodation. They would
offer waggons to get the younger children there. (Applause). An Ipswich firm could
supply a tent to accommodate 1,400 adults at a cost of £48. (Oh, oh). Mr Morris: We
don’t want to buy it!

Friday 5th April

1977

Mill Road Maternity Hospital in Cambridge, a former workhouse, was slammed for its
cramped and appalling conditions. A report highlights overcrowding, complete lack
of privacy for patients, appalling residences for nurses & pregnant women having to
sit clad only in a dressing gown in draughty corridors waiting for attention. It is
virtually impossible to expand the hospital, access is difficult and car parking
impossible. This is a disgraceful state of affairs for a maternity hospital doing
the standard of work that Cambridge does. It should be replaced by a 100-bed
obstetrics hospital on the New Addenbrooke's site as soon as finance is available

c.21.4

1952

The Jockey Club objected to part of the Newmarket training grounds known as
Southfields Gallops and The Flat being zoned as a Service airfield on the
Development Plan. They were a quarter of the whole of the ground available for
trainers. Part of the training grounds was requisitioned during the war & the
stands on the racecourse were de-requisitioned in 1945. It was extraordinary that
the powers-that-be should still regard it as a Service airfield.

1927

Under an Act of 1877 the Prison Commissioners took over Castle Hill, Cambridge,
together with the prison from the County Justices. The prison itself has been
loaned to the Record Office for the reposition of certain deeds etc. The hill could
be visited by application at the old prison gates, but few availed themselves of
this. Now the Cambridge Antiquarian Society suggested it be handed over to the
Corporation as public open space

c.34.7

1902

The Great Eastern Railway Company opened for traffic their new station at
Newmarket, about a quarter of a mile nearer the Race Course. It provides very
superior accommodation for dealing with passenger traffic. Long platforms have been
constructed, connected by a subway with excellent waiting accommodation and
spacious refreshment rooms specially designed to provide for the requirements of
the race traffic. Colonel McCalmont has constructed new roads which afford good
facilities for reaching the new Station both from the town and race course as well
as from the direction of Cheveley

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 8th April

1977

Four Cambridge schoolboys, keen supporters of the latest skateboarding craze to hit
Britain following its spread from America, have been banned from practising during
the holidays on the playground of the Priory School, Galfrid Road, Cambridge. It is
the second school to ban skateboards and is creating come controversy in education
and road safety circles. A senior county education administrator said if there was
an accident the education authority would be responsible but a senior county road
safety officer said it was better to have them off the road and on to places like
school playgrounds. The boys hope to establish a skateboarding club with proper
facilities.

c.38 : skateboard

1952

Cambridge received a pleasant surprise on Good Friday. On ground where snow lay six
inches deep less than two weeks ago, several people enjoyed hours of sun bathing
and many thousands spent much of the day out of doors. Churches reported that three
times as many people attended its services than last Good Friday. Petrol at 4s.3d a
gallon did not deter the motoring public & the Automobile Association reported a
‘good flow’ of traffic on the roads with about 600 cars passing through Newmarket
every hour. Many cars were older pre-war models making their first trips after
being laid up for the winter.

1927

The Cam Conservators reported they had got the Fort St George ferry up, but it sank
again. It was impossible to do anything with the boat and impossible to get another
one. They had agreed to employ a man to do the work but could not undertake the
risk. At lunchtime too many people crowded on to the boat and a man could not order
them off. The Conservators had carried on the ferry at a loss for years. They had a
contract to take the people across the water and had to do something. Chesterton
people felt they had been badly treated.

c.44.7

1902

Mr O. Griffith offered for sale at his Rothesay House Auction Rooms a freehold
property situate opposite The Terrace in High Street Newmarket and known as Aston
House, with stables and coach-houses and a cottage adjoining. The lot was withdrawn
at £1,500. Other properties including Kingston House, Amelia House and Chudleigh
House and a lock-up shop in the occupation of Mr J. Jennings were also withdrawn
without sale.

Tuesday 9th April

1977

Cambridge scientists may be within six months of a major break-through. They hope
that a new ultra high-power electron microscope now being constructed will show
atoms in the molecular structure of vital proteins and enzymes, including the life-
giving substance DNA. Work on the new microscope has been going on at the Cavendish
Laboratory for the past five years. Scientists in Japan are working along the same
lines but the Cambridge scientists may achieve success first.

1952
South Cambs councillors discussed an application for a council house from a married
undergraduate with children. Coun Binney said: “Council houses are for the working
people in this district, not for those coming up to the University as
undergraduates. It does seem not quite up to the line when we have so many people
earning £5 and £6 a week urgently in need of accommodation”.

1927

Cambridge councillors debated whether part of the King’s and Bishop’s Mill site
should be sold to the University to erect new lecture rooms. The Corporation should
not sell its property in this way; it should do so on the public market. They might
get a higher offer from a firm who would like to put up a Woolworth building but
they wanted an appropriate end to the Backs & such improvements would give an
almost Venetian effect to the whole of the Backs river. To consider turning the
site into a recreation ground with railings and white paint would be most
regrettable. They should pull down the remains of the mill so that everyone could
see what the site looked like when the fag-end of the foundations was up. It would
expose some quite ugly buildings which would not be hidden by any plans before them

c.46.5

1902

Willingham Parish Council have written to Addenbrooke's Hospital concerning a case

of measles which it says was sent into the village from the hospital some six weeks
since, by which means an epidemic of measles has resulted and at least two deaths
caused. They accuse the Hospital authorities of a grave error of judgement and
request steps be taken to prevent such an occurrence in future.

Wednesday 10th April

1977

Another stretch of the Cambridge-London Motorway – the M11 – was opened today. This
second stage runs between South Woodford and Redbridge in London and South Harlow.
With the section between Harlow & Bishop’s Stortford opened in June 1975 there will
now be 23 miles of motorway between the A12 at Redbridge and Birchanger. Work on
the remaining parts of the M11 on to Cambridge is expected to start this summer.

1952

Members of the Boy Scouts’ Association will unite in congratulating Mr W.A.

Mackrow, Assistant County Commissioner and scoutmaster of the 12th Cambridge
(Viscount Clifden’s Own) Scout group on the award of the Silver Acorn in the St
George’s Day Honours List. He has played a prominent part in Cambridge scouting for
many years and has special interest in the Sea Scouts whose well-equipped motor
boat ‘The Adventurer’ is a well-known feature of the Cam.

c.37.9

1927

In view of the increasing numbers of road accidents and increased road traffic, the
British Red Cross and the St John Ambulance Association are endeavouring to cover
the country with road ambulance stations consisting of (a) motor ambulance
stations, (b) first-aid detachment with equipment and (c) posts where a haversack
of first-aid equipment will be kept. It is hoped to have the scheme running during
weekends and Bank Holidays. There must be a number of young people in Cambridge who
have qualified in first aid who can come forward to help in this great humanitarian
work.

1902

Sir – Cambridge council propose to erect a clock tower at the end of Station Road
as a permanent memorial of the coronation. There are other places more suitable.
The Four Lamps on Newmarket Road would be better and a great convenience to
Barnwell and Chesterton. But why not erect a statue to our departed Queen,
Victoria? This could be done by the removal of the present dirty drinking fountain
and replaced by one more useful with the statue to her memory – Charles Hoppett

Thursday 11th April

1977

After four years of meetings, negotiations and hard work the villages of Hauxton
have at last got their village hall. The opening by village storekeeper Mr Merrick
Arnold marked the climax of a scheme thought up by the Women’s Institute years ago.
When a new school was built in 1974 a special committee set about raising £10,000
to buy the old school. Teams of volunteers knocked down walls, replaced plumbing
and painted the walls. The chairman of the parish council, Mr Malcolm Woolf said it
was “something the whole village should be proud of”

1952

There has been a spontaneous desire on the part of the farming community to
perpetuate the name of the late S. Owen Webb by some form of memorial. It is felt
the most practical and one that would fill a long felt need is to establish an
“Owen Webb House” in Cambridge to house the offices, meeting rooms, club rooms etc
essential to the County Agricultural Organisations which he served so well. An
appeal has been opened and the farming community have already subscribed
handsomely.

1927

Two Cambridge taxi men applied for hackney carriage licences to ply for hire at
Newmarket, particularly during race week. Both had invested all their spare capital
to purchase three cottages in the town, having been persuaded this would enable
them to obtain a licence. The Clerk said four others had also applied. If was
manifestly unfair. Newmarket men were supplying the town’s wants for the other 44
weeks of the year, during which time they were often standing idle. Yet when the
races came and they expected to recoup themselves they were rushed off the road by
these men from Cambridge who brought in their fares and wait to take them back at
night. They want to compete with Newmarket cabmen on the streets. The licences were
refused.

1902

One of the most enjoyable of the performances at Haverhill this winter was that
given by the Haverhill Amateur Dramatic Society on behalf of the Cricket Club and
the Eastern Counties Asylum for Idiots. It cannot be denied there are some good
amateur actors; Mr F.W. Gurteen capitally sustained the character of George Impulse
and Mr H. Cross was very mirth-provoking. During the interval the Haverhill
Orchestral Band played a selection of music

Friday 12th April

1977

The death of Sir Peter Kirk, MP for Saffron Walden, has cut short a highly
promising and distinguished career. In Parliament before he was 27, he lost his
Gravesend seat in 1964 but was promptly offered the safe Tory seat of Saffron
Walden when it was relinquished by Rab Butler. Sir Peter was made Under-Secretary
of State at the War Office and led the first Tory delegation to Europe in 1973 but
had to face criticism of his frequent absences abroad. He always denied spending
too little time in his constituency and was involved in many local issues.

1952

Much as we should all like to dispense with the yearly job of collecting new ration
books there is no chance of this happening yet awhile. The Food Office has
announced that the new ration books will be distributed from the Corn Exchange and
the Old Sorting Office in Post Office Terrace, Cambridge. Elderly people and
mothers with babies are recommended to visit the Corn Exchange as it is ground
floor accommodation. It is not necessary to take along identity cards on this
occasion but unless your full name is entered on page four of the old book the Food
Office will be unable to issue a new one

1927

Saffron Walden councillors considered taking steps to keep a portion of the Common
in a fair condition as a playground for children in castle Street and that the
sales usually held there be discontinued and held adjoining the Slade. The Lord of
the Manor would have no objection. The committee had done nothing in the matter,
not even allowing a steam roller to be run over that part of the common. But if the
children were herded together there would be more fights than there are now.

1902

Sir – a recent article in the “Cambridge Express” stated that the Chairman of the
Public Health Committee had to stop ‘larking’ between a nurse and an undergraduate
in the scullery of the Sanatorium, and that another professional man had been
pestered by a nurse to take her to the Theatre and upon this being indignantly
refused he was insulted by with a letter asking him to visit the nurse’s rooms at
night. These are serious allegations against the character and conduct of the
nurses. Not one of the statements is correct – J. Congreve

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 15th April

1977

There may be treasure at the bottom of the garden at the Red House pub in
Longstowe. Or on the other hand there may well not be. The landlord, Mr Rex Ford,
is finding out – with the help of a team of expert divers. They spent six hours in
the icy water but didn’t reach the bottom after 90 feet & were forced to abandon
the hunt having reached the limit of their decompression exposure time. They did
find a large antique key on a ledge. George Hughes, aged 70, remembers drawing
water from the well when a boy to power steam traction engines. “That is one of the
deepest wells hereabouts and is reckoned to be over 300 years old”, he said.

1952

Two new Western Chapels, erected at Bottisham church by Lord Fairhaven in memory of
his mother, were dedicated by the Bishop of Ely. The original plan, conceived in
1939, was for an extension of the church in the form of a Lady Chapel. This was
cancelled on the outbreak of war and eventually the new plan was substituted.

1927

The proposed appointment of a woman as county instructress in poultry keeping did

not find favour with the County council. It was not a suitable job for a woman to
go round to many of the outlying farms and it was questionable whether she would be
able to get to the meetings in the villages as well as a man. Ald Jackson said
poultry on the farm today were not being taken so much advantage of as was possible
and if a woman was appointed it would spoil the whole thing from the start. Women
looked after poultry on the farm and it had been argued it was best to have a woman
to teach the subject. But he never knew a woman yet who sent for a woman doctor to
treat her when she was ill (laughter)

1902

The Histon and Impington Bicycle Club were “at home” to members of the Cambridge
Wanderer’s Cycling Club at the Boot Inn, Histon. Every preparation had been made
for the comfort of the cyclists & the room presented the gayest aspect, owing to
decorations of flags, bunting etc. Mr G.H. Whitehead of the “Senior Wrangler”
Bicycle Firm, Cottenham and Mr George Tolliday of the “George” Cycle Works Histon
were amongst those present. A capital programme of music was gone through including
‘Goodbye, Dolly Gray” and the comic song “Cheer up, you’ll soon be dead”

Tuesday 16th April

1977

A row is simmering just below the surface of the seemingly peaceful expanse of
Eltisley village green. The wrangle turns on technical and legal points on the
right to have driveways over a part of the green, which is common land. The
question has split the village in two. It has brought the council into dispute with
a vicar, a farmer and a doctor. It has made parish council meetings notoriously
stormy and brought villagers out in force to watch the proceedings. The clerk and a
council member have resigned over the row which make take a test court case to
solve.

1952

Sir – I wonder how many Cambridge ratepayers approve of the idea of water trickling
along the gutters of St Andrew’s Street. It was laid in case cattle wanted a drink,
which was a good idea. In 1952 however it is a bad idea because it makes the street
narrower, especially when cars are parked and buses are forced close to the kerb. I
saw a quart of water splashed into the lap of an infant in a small go-cart when a
bus went past Stanley Woolston’s shop at a smart walking pace and its mother was
unable to manoeuvre out of the bus’s bow wave. I’ll wager she would like to see the
tap turned off – O.C. Cox.

1927

An inquest returned that a Lt Shelford woman found in a well had committed suicide
while of unsound mind following an attack of influenza. She had had two lapses of
memory. A month ago she had lost her memory for a day and “woke up” in the evening
and found her way home after the people in the village had been looking for her all
day. Then she had gone to the butcher’s but did not arrive and woke up to find
herself in the main road in the dark eight miles from home. On Friday they noticed
the lid of the well was open and looking down they saw her with her head under the
water.

1902

Coronation 1902. A Proclamation. Messrs Starr and Rignall, the people’s

photographers, being confident that every loyal subject of H.M. King Edward will
appreciate some memento of this the most eventful year of the present decade have
decided to give everyone the opportunity of securing one of their high-class
cabinet portraits, finished in their best style, for one shilling. See window for
special babies’ offer. 108 Fitzroy Street, Cambridge. – advert

c.65.5

Wednesday 17th April

1977

A multi-million pound deal for the rebuilding of large parts of the Burleigh Street
– Fitzroy Street area of Cambridge (The Kite) which would involve a handsome
handout to the ratepayers is being negotiated between the City council and two
internationally known development companies. Under the deal the redevelopment could
be carried out without any cost to the ratepayers. The council would hand some of
its land holdings – much now derelict – to the developers on a long lease. In
return they would build large car parks for the council, regrass the New Square car
park and erect a number of shops, at least on of them a department store. And at
the end of the development period the company would make either a substantial lump
sum payment to the council or give it a large cut of the rents collected.

c.49.4

1952

Cambridge Trades Council strongly objected to the closing of Romsey Municipal

Restaurant. It will deny a good mid-day meal to many old people & working class men
could not afford to go into places in Cambridge and pay high prices for meals.
Transport workers could not get a meal if the facility were taken away. The profit
of the combined restaurants is more than enough to cover losses and as municipal
restaurants are a public service and not run for profit they urged the continuation
of the service in Romsey.

c.21.4

1927

Sir – there are a large number of persons of both sexes who are intensely
interested in aeronautics and would welcome the formation of a light aeroplane
club. Learning to fly in this way is moderately cheap and invigorating. This county
specially suited for flying as in almost every village several fields may be
selected which would make excellent landing grounds. – R.C. Jonas

c.26.1

1902

The contractor for the erection of Aldreth bridge is making progress with the
works. There have been great expectations of antiquarian finds but very little has
been found. A square oak beam some thirty feet long, thought to have been used in
the erection of a bridge previous to anything known, has been taken out in good
preservation. Smaller things such as hammer heads and old sword etc have been taken
to Cambridge, but nothing has turned up equal to what was ploughed up in a field
within a mile of the bridge in 1857.

Thursday 18th April

1977

Cambridgeshire County Council could be saddled with an expensive white elephant if

it ever decides to use Whaddon Gap, near Royston, as a permanent site for caravan-
dwellers. They are usually very superstitious people and some believe the site is
haunted. One woman who stayed there said there was a sort of smoky mist coming up
and she smelled burning and heard a horrible scream. When the same thing happened
the next night she packed up & left. Residents say a tramp’s body was found in a
dug-out in 1940 and several aircraft came down in the area during the war. A few
years later a Canberra bomber crashed and the three-man crew were killed. Nine
years ago a gypsy who was living there was brutally murdered and caravan dwellers
have never been there since.

1952

A rookery, recently established in the Vicarage garden at Burwell, is not likely to

be long-lived. Despite well-wishers in the village wanting the birds to stay the
Vicar has decided that the four newly built nests in his walnut trees must be
exterminated because they are a nuisance. “But”, he said “because of meddlesome
busybodies who are creating unpleasantness and because I am a life member of the
Cambridge University Federation for Animal Welfare it is very difficult for me to
get rid of these birds”. Now two men with shot-guns have been seen in the garden
and one bird was killed “instantaneously”.

1927

A farmer of Skippers Hall, West Wickham was successful in a house possession case
brought because of arrears of rent. The tenant said the place was in bad repair,
the floors were in a bad state and if he had not wired them the windows would have
fallen out. The farmer said there was nothing wrong with the house and he had done
the repairs. The rent was 2s.6d. a week

1902

Sir – may I call attention to an almost intolerable nuisance that maintains on Mill
Road, Cambridge. The shopkeepers are in the habit of sweeping the refuse from their
establishments into the streets (especially on Saturday night) with the result that
dirty paper is blown about the streets and into the gardens of private houses. It
is most objectionable and annoying to have one’s gardens and yards filled with
rubbish of this description. Is it not an offence against the bye-laws? – Resident

c.29.8

Friday 19th April

1977

The new Bridge House office block and restored 16th-century buildings in Bridge
Street, Cambridge, are a landmark and inspiration, said the Mayor, Coun Bob May,
when he opened the £1.3 million redevelopment. “If only the architects had been
involved at Lion Yard then things might have turned out differently there”, he
said. He praised the skill with which the historic and environmentally important
site had been handled by the Scottish Mutual Assurance Society and its architects,
Saunders Boston of Cambridge. It was an outstanding example of how a new building
could be fitted into an old environment and how old buildings could be preserved.

c.44.6

1952

A local schoolgirl’s experiences in London over Easter was related to Cambridge

Juvenile Court magistrates. She said that she met an American who gave her £2 and
her fare to London, saying he would meet her there. She stayed two nights with a
woman who was known to be an “undesirable character” and two further nights in the
company of another girl whom she met. She had posed as 17, frequented the amusement
arcades and snack bars and associated with several “spivvy people”. She was sent to
a remand home until a place could be found at an approved school.

1927

Cambridge Guardians discussed provision of suitable accommodation for the Assistant

Master by adapting the aged men’s dormitory. His present room was nothing but a
pig-sty and they ought to be ashamed to house their servant in such quarters. If he
were given the proposed quarters he would be in a better position to carry out his
duties. But there were undergraduates living in rooms no better and thousands of
men and women living under worse conditions. The Master had suggested he could put
four old male inmates in a bedroom which was not considered suitable for one
person. Who was going to “rule the roost” – the Master or the Guardians?

1902

The King passed through Cambridge on his way from Sandringham to London. The
special train steamed through at a slow pace. The king was plainly visible reading
a daily paper. A barrier was thrown across the station where the London trains go
out. A number of people assembled on that part of the platform which was open to
the public, but there was no demonstration.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 22nd April

1977

Printing technology is moving fast and regional newspapers are consistently in the
forefront of developments. By concentrating on one major aspect the Cambridge
Evening News has more than kept pace. The use of hot metal in printing is giving
way to photography & we are the first in the country to print our papers by the Di-
Litho method, enabling us to modernise and adapt our dated but sturdy and still
efficient presses, improving the quality of reproduction in our publications and
making working conditions easier and cleaner for staff. It is an indication of our
confidence in the future that we intend to move to photocomposition, stage by
stage, until completion in about a year’s time.

c.04

1952

The County council and landowners in Landbeach, Cottenham and Willingham have
objected to their land being included in an internal drainage district of the Great
Ouse River Board. . Cottenham was well served by ditches, drains and gravity
drainage, but they were not kept in a proper state. The only way was to put them
under a drainage district. But the County claimed that the additional cost of the
drainage rate on their smallholdings would increase the rate throughout the whole
county.

1927
Why does skipping always take place on Parker’s Piece, Cambridge on Good Friday and
Easter Monday? An old man of 83 remembers skipping there as a boy of five or six
and his father apparently did so before him. It seems that Good Friday used to be
the publican’s “day out” and they used to repair to the Piece for a game of bat and
trap, while their youngsters amused themselves with a skipping rope. We don’t hear
much about Bat and Trap nowadays but the skipping goes on as of yore.

c.39

1902
A Cambridge butcher was charged with obtaining money from Caius College. A system
of frauds had been in operation since 1886 in reference to the supply of meat to
various colleges. He had been asked to produce his books but said they had been
burnt on the bonfire on Ladysmith night. A detective visited the shop and found
some ledgers in the safe. There were more in the stoke hole of the conservatory and
in a large meat basket tied up with rope

c.27
Tuesday 23rd April

1977

Eric Morecambe and Ernie Wise sustained a non-stop fusillade of gags and sketches
at Cambridge Sports Hall. An audience of more than 1,500 people roared them to
success. Eric took a snap look around the room and declared: “I’ve never worked in
an aircraft hanger before!” – much to the audience’s delight. It is impossible to
see where routine ends and inspired ad-libbing begins. Eric (about the audience):
“Are they still there? They’re not walking towards us with ropes and pulleys are
they?” Later he told them: “You’ve been a marvellous audience, you really have.
You’ve made me laugh, I tell you!”

1952

Cambridgeshire National Farmers Union heard with satisfaction that the Railway
Executive had agreed to operate the 5.27 p.m. Histon to Kettering goods rated soft
fruit train this season. It was particularly in the interest of local strawberry
growers to keep this train in operation but if it is not fully used it will not be
possible to provide a similar service next year.
1927

There is quite a fluttering in the political dovecotes of Cambridge over the

Government’s decision to give the Parliamentary vote to women at 21 on the same
terms as men. This may produce as many as 15,000 new votes. The strongest criticism
comes from Cambridge Conservatives who fear for the effects on their own prospects
at the poll. In the county very few young girls remain in the country but take up
positions in the towns and so do not come on the county registers. Seeing the new
bill would bring in women nine years younger, and in addition a number of women of
30 years of age who have not now got the vote, it is estimated the number of new
women electors at 5,000.

c.33 # WOMEN

1902

An exciting scene took place at Newmarket Police Court when a Deptford butcher was
charged with being drunk. The prisoner was arrested suffering from delirium tremens
had had since been an inmate of the Workhouse Infirmary. When the magistrates
intimated he would be further remanded he rushed towards the reporters’ table and
then attempted to strangle himself with a neckerchief. Several constables secured
him and he was led away uttering threats.

Wednesday 24th April

1977

Cambridge undergraduates planning one of the university’s most expensive-ever May

Balls are insuring themselves against the Queen Mother’s death. For she is
patroness of Queens’ College where May Ball tickets at £29.50 are now almost sold
out. Her death before the college ball would result in cancellation leaving the
student organisers with £10,710 worth of bills. One of the organisers said:
“Cancellation could only really come about through the death of the Queen Mother or
the college President and it is “court mourning” that we are most worried about. I
suppose it is also something which is going to get more expensive the older she
gets”. The Queen Mother will be 77 on August 4th.
Wednesday 24th April

replacement:

1977

Musicians’ discontent over the Cambridge Symphony Orchestra turned to anger as more
professionals claimed they were owned money. And as a London orchestral agency told
of their wrangle over a cheque for more than £1,0000 the Musicians’ Union attacked
the orchestra’s policy of not paying amateurs.. The eight-month-old semi-
professional orchestra is in a desperate financial condition. A London orchestral
agent reported that he was “flabbergasted” at the way the Orchestra had treated its
players. “I can’t think why you people in Cambridge support it. I knew this would
happen. You can’t hope to run an orchestra on a shoestring”, he said.

c.69

1952
A new type of smoke detector, developed and perfected in Switzerland, is being
installed in the Fitzwilliam Museum. It will be the first building in the country
to be equipped with the alarm which utilises the principles of radioactive
disintegration. Museum authorities carried out tests with a pilot system installed
at selected points in the building. Independent tests were also carried out by the
Cavendish Laboratory. The system is unobtrusive and will not interfere with the
aesthetic atmosphere of the building.

c.34.75

1927

“It does strike me as a little odd that neither the University nor town had done
anything to preserve relics of old Cambridge. So much has left the town and is now
scattered all over the earth. I should like to see the Borough start a scheme to
preserve what is found and keep together for the study of old Cambridge anything
that turns up”. This wish was expressed by Dr Louis Clark, curator of the
University Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology. When one visited other places one
did feel that there was a serious lacuna in the civic life of Cambridge.

1902

In the course of works at Grantchester Mill in connection with providing a turbine

it had been noticed that the brickwork to the retaining wall which supported the
public road was getting somewhat out of repair. The arch over the waterway appeared
inadequate to bear any but the ordinary traffic and there was considerable risk if
traction engines were allowed to pass. The tenant of the mill had put up a notice
that the bridge was unfit for heavy vehicles. The bridge was a private one,
although the Council had to make up the roads on either side and the matter was
referred to the Highways Committee.

Thursday 25th April

1977

Corks bounced off the ceiling – and Steve Spriggs’ head – and the champagne flowed
long after Cambridge United’s dramatic 3-2 victory over brave Brentford. They were
celebrating promotion to Division Three. It will be one of the major shocks of
football history if Ron Atkinson’s team do not coast home to the Fourth Division
title, sitting four points clear at the top of the table. They would have to lose
their four remaining matches by at least three goals while the four teams below
them would have to win all of theirs. It is all safely tucked away in the realms of
fantasy, says Randall Butt

c.38 : football

1952

Canon W.W. Partridge is retiring from the living of St Luke’s church, Cambridge, of
which he has been vicar since 1916. He was also for two years chaplain at the
prison on Castle Hill, which was demolished to make way for the new Shire Hall. The
vicarage, which was build in 1923, was the first house erected on the large estate
which now stretches away behind his church.

1927 Apr 27
“I feel it should be the utmost endeavour to get townspeople now existing in
Burrell’s Walk out of those hutments and into council houses with the greatest
expediency”, said A.C. Taylor, the Independent candidate in the Castle Ward by-
election. He was gravely concerned with the sanitary conditions of the place and
while the huts served a very useful purpose years ago they were never intended to
be permanent abodes of civil population. There were some worse cases in Cambridge
but for young people with families the cramped conditions and colourless
surroundings did not make for the bringing up of bright, healthy children.

1902

Tom Hayward, the cricketer, was the recipient of an expression of that pride and
admiration which his fellow-townsmen so unstintingly entertain for the man and the
sportsman. It took the form of the time-honoured complimentary dinner at the Lion
Hotel, Cambridge on the occasion of his return home after a most successful
cricketing tour in Australia. Mr Hayward thanked the company for the kind reception
which made him more nervous than playing before 40,000 people. As to the tour they
had a very pleasant time. There was only one thing to mar it and that was losing
four out of five of the test matches. But they had bad luck, all their best bowlers
being ill or injured.

c.38 : cricket

Friday 26th April

1977

Dennis is a Cambridge taxi driver who finishes work at two or three in the morning.
But when he gets home there is no way he can get a night’s sleep because he, his
wife and nine-month-old baby share one room, 12 feet by nine, in which they have to
live, eat and sleep. They leave a two-bar electric fire burning to dry out the
damp. The family share a three-bedroomed terrace with two other families. There is
no bathroom, the outside lavatory does not flush properly. There is just one
kitchen. The house in Gwydir Street Cambridge is owned by the city council. The
Housing manager agrees that conditions are far less than ideal but says the
property is the last resort for dealing with real emergencies. A few years ago the
family would have been split up with the wife and child going into a social
services hostel.

1952

Two large huts have been erected on a piece of waste land at the top of Castle
Street, Cambridge. They are to be an Anglo-American and Allied Services Club which
is being started at the request of the American Service authorities to provide
servicemen of other countries with somewhere pleasant to go when they are in
Cambridge. There are two very big rooms which have been tastefully and brightly
decorated and provided with old furniture renovated by the W.V.S. One will serve
for games of various kinds and the other for dancing. There is to be a snack bar
and that “must” for Americans, a juke box.

c.45.8

1927

Linton RDC was told that houses, which had cost £900 to build, were now being
valued at only £300. There were houses in every stage of decay, many of them past
repair. They were owned by private owners who received such a low rent that they
did not feel like spending money on the preservation of their property. Owners were
reluctant to spend money they would never get back. People were leaving the
villages and flocking to the towns and how could you keep them unless you build
houses for them to live in. There were places where cottages had not been built for
20 years.

1902

William Edwards of the Rock Estate, Cherry Hinton, applied for an exemption
certificate from vaccination for his child, William. He had an exemption before and
was more firmly convinced that vaccination was not required. His first child died
through it and, if small pox broke out at Cherry Hinton, he would not, unless
forced by law, consent to his child being vaccinated. If there were a loophole of
escape from it he would not have the child done, if it cost him every stick of
furniture he had got. The exemption was granted.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 29th April

1977

Two crewmen of an RAF Canberra and three children were killed when the plane
crashed near houses at Oxmoor, Huntingdon. The main wreckage of the plane is spread
around an area of grass at the end of Norfolk Road. The tail-plane of the Canberra
wedged hard alongside one of the houses. Eight of the terraced houses appeared to
be completely gutted with flames raging through the roofs. As the wreckage burned
steadily police held back hundreds of watching residents. A spokesman at RAF Wyton
confirmed that one of their Canberra reconnaissance planes had crashed two miles
from the runway as it came into land.

1952

It was a rather sad moment when Miss Gaskell got up to make her farewell speech as
chairman at the annual meeting of the Cambridgeshire Federation of Women’s
Institutes. She has held office since it was first formed over 30 years ago, first
as assistant secretary to Miss Ellen Briscoe, and became chairman in 1941. She also
served on the National Executive for 14 years. Now having reached her three score
years and ten she will be able to rest on her laurels in the satisfaction of a job
well done.

1927

Crowds of people thronged to Papworth Everard on the occasion of the opening of the
new Wesleyan Chapel, which is up-to-date in every respect. The funds had been
mainly raised by a visit of Gypsy Smith, a sale, and a gift from the Home Mission
Department. Mr Inskip offered a word of warning: In small congregations quarrelling
could be a cause of trouble. They should work together to make this venture a
success. Many people come to Papworth on account of their health and will come to
the chapel with hearts full of thanksgiving.

1902

Crowded houses are the order of the day at Cambridge Guildhall for the marvellous
entertainment provided by Maskelyne and Cocke’s mysteries. The sleight of hand and
illusions mystify and amuse the audiences while M. Gintaro varies his clever feats
of juggling. Quite a feature of the evening’s amusement is the first-class animated
photographs.

Tuesday 30th April

1977

Mr Harry Evans of Sycamore Drive on the Oxmoor estate, Huntingdon described the
scene as the Canberra crashed. “As I was walking along I looked across the estate
and there was this jet coming in low like it was in a nosedive. It looked as if the
pilot was aiming away from the houses. Then it disappeared from sight and there was
a dull thud. We saw black smoke and flames”. Mrs Betty Smith escaped from her
blazing kitchen in Norfolk Road. “The plane virtually landed in my front garden.
I’d just come down to the kitchen. I covered my ears like I always do when I hear a
plane close and then could see flames. They were coming across the kitchen floor
and under the table and I ran”

1952

Miss Lillian Bourn will be remembered for her work during the war with the American
Red Cross. She was Supervisor of Hospitality at their Bull Hotel club and coped
with the countless American soldiers visiting Cambridge. In fact she married one of
them. The romance began when her husband, who sings, went into the Bull and asked
her if she could find someone to accompany him. “I was able to do so and that’s how
it started”, she said. Her home is now in the university town of Evanston,
Illinois.

c.45.7

1927

Mill Road Baptist Church, Cambridge, was packed when a new organ which has just
been installed was formally opened. There was a time when a church of that sort
would not have had an organ at any price. It appears to be a good all-round
instrument and some of the stops are beautifully mellow. The organ was built by the
local firm of Messrs Miller & Son, Sidney Street, and they have certainly made a
splendid job. They have used some of the pipes of the old organ and worked in the
old with the new excellently.

c.69 : organ

1902

Outside Cambridge police court there was an air of suppressed excitement. As soon
as the doors of the court were opened the space allotted to the public quickly
filled. Hundreds were unable to obtain admission and eagerly waited outside for the
chance of catching some details. A butcher from Petty Cury was accused of cheating
and defrauding Caius College since January 1888. It was alleged that meat was
constantly booked to the college which was not delivered at all and the cook was
supplied his own meat gratis.

c.27

Wednesday 1st May

1977

As Huntingdon mourned the death of three small children in the jet crash at Oxmoor,
mystery still surrounds the cause of the crash. After experts had worked all night
under floodlights amid the charred wreckage, one theory is that the twin engine
Canberra photo-reconnaissance plane had suffered a failure in its Rolls-Royce
engines. The two crewmen died as they fought to steer their crippled plane clear of
the estate and a school 200 yards from the place where it crashed into eight
terraced houses. Three small children died as blazing aircraft fuel spewed on to
and into the houses

1952

Three seasons ago Cambridge United (then Abbey United) Supporters’ Club embarked on
an ambitious scheme – the building of a £3,000 pavilion and clubroom with office
accommodation. At first the loyal band of supporters was beset by building material
difficulties and then hampered by the weather. There were scenes of great
enthusiasm when the building was handed over to the football club management. It is
just 40 years since the club was formed as Abbey United as the outcome of the
desire to play football by a Sunday School class. “Our set-up is now really
wonderful and there is no reason why the club should not go on from success to
success”, said Harry Habbin, chairman of the Supporters Club.

c.38 : football

1927

The stone-laying ceremony in connection with the new hall at Hills Road Wesleyan
Church, Cambridge took place. It will be a single-storey building but with a view
to enlarging later, if necessary. Mr C. Kerrridge and Mr W.A. Gray, members of the
church, are the honorary architects and the building is being done by Messrs J.R.
Bennett & sons. Too often had they had to work under most depressing and
unfavourable conditions. The Young Men’s Fraternal had increased from five to
nearly 50; if they did not make provision for these young fellows others would step
in and reap what they had sown.

c.83

1902

Old English customs are, unhappily, dying out slowly but surely. Even the romantic
revels which formerly attached to May Day have to a large extent disappeared and
but little remains to mark what was an important day in the calendar. May Day is
essentially a day for youthful jubilation and in one place in Cambridge is at least
observed as such. Scholars at Eden Street Higher Grade Schools annually take part
in a quaintly pretty ceremony of choosing a May Queen. Queen Nellie – last year’s
queen was escorted to her throne and formally abdicated. Votes were taken and it
was announced that Miss Daisy Coulson had been elected and she was crowned with a
crown of roses.

c.39

Thursday 2nd May

1977

The two crewmen of the RAF Canberra killed in the tragedy at Huntingdon may have
sacrificed their lives trying to keep clear of a school nearby where 250 children
were about to start their lunch break. The headmaster of Sapley Park Primary
School, Mr John Richardson, said the whole disaster was played out in full view of
the school. The aircraft crashed about 200 yards away just as the bell was ringing
for the start of the break. If the pilot had stayed in the air a few seconds more
the school would have been hit. The crew could have ejected to safety and left the
plane to its own devices.
1952

The Foreign Secretary, Mr Anthony Eden opened the Anglo-U.S.A. and Allied services
Club on Castle Hill, Cambridge. A year ago the city council was approached by the
Women’s Voluntary Service with the object of providing the site for the club. Since
then much work had been done by the W.V.S. together with valuable assistance of the
U.S. Air Force and the Air Ministry. The club will be open every evening during the
week and, Mr Eden said, will lure out American Service men from the attractions of
their camps so they could learn “what extraordinary animals the English are”

c.45.8

1927

Part of the club room of the Footlights Dramatic Club above the Masonic Hall in
Corn Exchange Street Cambridge was damaged as a result of a fire with flames coming
through the roof. It was fortunate it was discovered early or it would have worked
round to a little stage where inflammable material might have created a more
alarming blaze. It is feared some photographs of former members of the club have
been destroyed. The water came through the ceiling of the Masonic Hall and the fine
dance floor was soon flooded. The Rodney Dramatic Club had engaged the Hall for a
dinner dance and it may not be available for part of the function.

c.76

1902

The King left London on Tuesday for Newmarket and reached the new station at 1.45
in the afternoon. Entering a carriage his Majesty drove along the avenue into High
Street and thence to the racecourse, repeatedly acknowledging the cheers of the
people en route. He lunched in his private room at the grand stand and chatted with
several people in the Jockey Club enclosure. After the races the King drove to
Egerton House where he looked over the training establishment and returned to his
rooms at the Jockey Club to sleep

Friday 3rd May

1977

The Mayor of Huntingdon said bureaucrats must take part of the blame for the
Canberra jet crash disaster which killed five people. “It is clear the homes should
not have been built under the flight path of the planes”. The Oxmoor estate, where
2,000 families live, is mostly inhabited by Londoners who moved to the town under
the Greater London Council expanding towns scheme and started in 1955. Residents
have called for a halt to flights over the estate and threaten to block the runways
at RAF Wyton.

1952

A hitherto undreamed-of use for the television camera unit – to facilitate under-
water research and the location of wrecks – was demonstrated at Pye’s Radio works.
It was this type of camera which located the submarine Affray and was manipulated
from the recovery vessel H.M.S. Reclaim. At present she is being fitted with
additional Pye Radio T.V. equipment and when this is completed the BBC will arrange
an outside broadcast from the ship. Its visual range is far greater than that of a
diver and it can operate at a greater depth. For the purposes of the demonstration
the camera was set up in front of a goldfish tank owing to the high mud content of
the River Cam

1927

A demonstration of a new British invention which insures motorists against tyre

trouble was given at Messrs Saints’ garage, Newmarket Road, Cambridge. The Otomatic
Service is a powder composed of particles of raw rubber and cork and flakes of mica
which is inserted into the inner tube of a tyre through the valve hole with a small
quantity of liquid formalin and water. When the tyre is inflated and the car put in
motion a thin film is distributed inside the tread which automatically seals any
puncture which may occur. In event of a burst the inner tubes will be repaired free
of charge for 12 months, no matter how numerous the bursts, provided they are not
over three inches in length.

c.24.48

1902

Sir – Drives for the aged, infirm & invalids. Some scores of poor creatures in
Cambridge would welcome a free country trip which could be done with little
expense. A brake could call at the hospital, the workhouse and almshouses and take
them out for short drives into the country. It would be the means of brightening
the existence of many of our aged, infirm, feeble and poverty-stricken people who
are compelled through affliction or old age to spend the remainder of their
miserable existence in the house. It would be much appreciated and heartily
supported – Sympathy

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 6th May

1977

Cottenham residents can rest assured that their village bounds have been well and
truly beaten following the traditional 20-mike hike at the weekend. 170 people took
part in the annual ceremony to mark the parish limits and one who is unlikely to
forget just where Cottenham stops and the rest of the world starts is 10-year-old
Catherine Tompkins. She was chosen to go through the traditional “bumping” ceremony
which takes place at each of the four corners of the parish. This combination of
deterrent and reward, traditionally undergone by the village boys, entails being
turned upside down, bumped on the ground, beaten with a stick and given a silver
coin.

1952

Cambridge city council would like to see Christ’s Lane opened out as a thoroughfare
to be used by the omnibuses and other traffic to alleviate congestion in the City
centre and provide relief for Emmanuel Street. The present country bus station at
Drummer Street would then become the main stopping place for the local buses which
now pick up and set down passengers in Sidney Street constricting the traffic flow.
They also propose a new road on the line of Post Office Terrace to Wheeler Street.
With Corn Exchange Street widened this would provide for a good circulation of
traffic in the city centre.

c.49.62

1927
Twelve people were rendered homeless and lost the whole of their possessions as the
result of a fire at Pampisford. The conflagration was on College Farm and two
adjoining cottages were involved. . There is just one wall and two chimney stacks
left standing. The walls of wood, which are hollow with a canvas covering inside,
and the thatched roof blazed with great fierceness. One family consisted of seven
persons, the husband, wife and five children, while there were five in the other
cottage and they had to escape in their night-clothes. They are now homeless and
clothes-less. The only property saved was a chair, a perambulator and a toothbrush

1902

A deep feeling of horror spread like lightning through Cambridge when it was
reported that a cook at a Cambridge college had committed suicide. Enquiries show
he was fearful of being drawn into the hearing of the Cambridge meat case and made
to become a witness against his own brother. This undoubtedly preyed upon his mind
and he became exceedingly suspicious of any stranger entering the college hall. The
other day a friend observed: “I see you have a new waiter”. “No”, he replied, “he
is a detective shadowing me”

c.28 # c.34.6
Tuesday 7th May

1977

Four men have resigned from Cambridgeshire Constabulary in the past six weeks over
poor pay – the same number as in the whole of last year for the same reason. One
28-year-old detective constable has resigned after five year’s service to double
his earnings as a gas fitter. He had been taking home about £171 a month, including
overtime and expenses. Another policeman is leaving to double his wages with a
television hire company – and with a company car. The Chief Constable warned the
service would continue to suffer unless policemen were paid above the national norm
to attract the right men into the force.

1952

Nearly 400 agricultural workers, headed by an M.P. marched with two banners flying
through Cambridge city centre. They were members of the National Union of
Agricultural Workers – men and women – who had come for a May Day rally. Mr Walston
said we had to get as much out of the land as we possibly could simply for our
national survival. The farm worker was the important factor in food production &
should be compulsorily protected against the danger of toxic chemicals used on the
farms. Grants be made to farmers for improving tied cottages together with loans
for building new ones.

c.22 # x.33

1927

Businessmen in Cambridge are brought into closer touch with Paris by the
acceleration of the Southern Railway’s night service, Southampton and Havre. As the
result of close co-operation with the State railway of France and the mutual
alterations of timetables, the double journey to Paris can now be made with only
one-day’s absence from England and the traveller is allowed about nine hours in the
French capital. The acceleration results in a saving of 84 minutes on each journey.

1902

It will probably surprise many that there is no telephonic communication between

Cambridge Police Court and the County Gaol. This morning when a trial was to have
proceeded it was reported that the defendant was too unwell to leave prison. The
question was asked as to how long he was likely to be absent and a special
messenger was sent to Dr Buckingham, the Prison Surgeon. The Chairman said they
were surprised to find there were some antiquated notions which had prevented the
telephone from being laid on between the two places and thought councillors should
see it was remedied

Wednesday 8th May

1977

Huntingdon’s “desolation row” where three children and two airmen died in last
week’s jet crash, will soon be no more. Contractors moved into Norfolk Road to
begin demolishing the shattered and blackened wreck of seven houses. The machines
brought to light pathetic mementoes of family life. Children’s toys tumbled from
upstairs bedrooms and the remains of a lunch that was never eaten disappeared under
a shower of rubble. Huntingdon District Council intends to rebuild the block
exactly as it looked before the crash. Greater London Council officials are
searching their files for the original plans.

1952

More than 300 people attended the public baptism of four American Service men in
the river Lark at Isleham. Although these services on the river bank are not new it
is believed that this is the first time that the Americans have held one
exclusively for their own men. It was 102 years to the day since the famous Baptist
preacher, Spurgeon, was baptised there. The service was conducted by U.S.A.F.
Lakenheath Chaplain John E. Bryden who said: “I got a real thrill out of it because
Spurgeon was always one of my heroes”

1927

Cambridge Guildhall was packed for “Welcome Home” and jubilee celebrations
organised in honour of Gypsy Smith, the world-famed evangelist, who has just
returned from Australia and New Zealand. The Gypsy told of some of his experiences
during this last tour and recounted again how he was converted in the little chapel
in Fitzroy Street. A telegraph of “much satisfaction” was received from the King
and he was presented with a history of Cambridge. The Mayor said that 50 years of
service was a wonderful record. He was the missionary and evangelist to the
English-speaking people and had probably spoken to more of the English race that
any person, living or dead. Cambridge ought to be particularly proud as his career
had started here.

c.83

1902

Years ago the foundations of the tower of St Mary’s church, Haverhill gave way a
good deal and in 1858 a turret was built in the hope that this would support the
tower. It was examined some time back and it was then seen that the foundations
under the turret had give way, thus increasing the cracks in the walls of the
tower. Out of a peal of five bells two are cracked and the remaining three are worn
exceedingly thin. The work will now be done due as a memorial to Rev Robert
Roberts who was vicar for 55 years.
Thursday 9th May

1977

The new Campaign for Real Ale guide to Cambridgeshire shows that, with the
exception of a few oases, the north of the county remain a “real ale” desert. In
the area between Huntingdon, Ely, Wisbech and Peterborough only 24 real pubs exists
and of these five are in one town, March. The blame is put squarely on one major
brewery, Watneys. But there are 42 more “real ale” pubs than last year, bringing
the county’s total up to 216 and in Cambridge itself 11 brewers supply real ale to
more than 40 public houses

1952

Members of 250 Field Squadron Royal Engineers demolished 24 trees of up to 15-feet

circumference at Overmere Way Farm, Willingham. The trees were lifted bodily out of
the ground. This required large charges set under the roots, many of them in water.
Many trees required as many as four charges in each to ensure that the roots would
be pulled out with the trunk. The farmer, Mr Granger, wanted to make two fields
into one and needed the trees dividing them to be removed. He showed his
appreciation by providing much-needed liquid refreshment.

1927

It is just 50 years since the Cambridge Mission began its work in Delhi and the
event was marked in Sidney Sussex Chapel. The two young Cambridge men who went out
to Delhi in 1877, the Rev Edward Bickersteth of Pembroke College and Mr John Murray
of St John’s, were charged to help to the missionaries of the Society for the
Propagation of the Gospel, and the fruit of their labours have been carried on by
the Cambridge Brotherhood. No mere recital of the details of its organisation can
give any idea of the interest and the romance of the Cambridge Mission. It owed its
inception largely to Dr Westcott and has given to India outstanding missionaries
and a host of devoted workers. It affords unique opportunities for Christian
service to the Indian people in one of their greatest and most historic cities. The
wonder is that it is not better supported by Cambridge men, past and present.

1902

Artificial teeth. Set of teeth from £1.0s.0d. Single tooth from 2s.6d. Advice and
any information concerning the manufacture and adaptation of artificial teeth to
the mouth given free of charge. All cases guaranteed. Consultation and every
information free daily from 9 till 7. Mr P. Hawkes, 26, Hills Road, Cambridge –
advert.

Friday 10th May

1977

Mill Road Maternity Hospital in Cambridge is medically second to none. The staff is
good, the equipment the most up-to-date … but both are severely hampered by
“appalling conditions” in the cramped old workhouse building. There is intense
congestion in the antenatal clinic. Patients using the modern ultra-sound equipment
have a long walk in their dressing gowns to reach a draughty corridor where they
have to set near swing doors leading out of the hospital. Another £15,000 ultra-
sound machine is being purchased but no-one knows where it can be placed. But the
neo-natal care unit for new-born babies is regarded as probably one of the best in
the country.
1952

There is to be no reprieve for the Stetchworth Football Club’s ground at Mill Field
as the club – which this year won the Wilkin Shield – is now without a pitch. Lord
Ellesmere, who owns the field, was agreeable that it should be used permanently as
a recreation ground, but had to consult his tenant. But Mr J.E. Ferguson, the
racehorse owner whose Airborne won the Derby, wants the field as an additional
paddock and his lease has 14 years to run

1927

The Festival Theatre in Newmarket Road, Cambridge has opened a roof garden. In warm
weather there could hardly be anything more pleasanter than a meal on the roof
preparatory to seeing the performance below and there is not the slightest doubt
that it will be a great attraction to visitors. The view is not extensive, it is
true, but the surroundings are novel and amongst undergraduates it will certainly
be “the thing to do” as often as funds permit.

c.76

1902

The funeral of P.C. Thompson of the Cambridge police was conducted on military
lines. His comrades, accompanied by members of the Borough Fire Brigade, marched to
Sturton Street. As the coffin was brought out of the house the police band played
the death march in “Saul” and Drum Major Inspector Johnson, his staff draped with
crepe, led the hearse & mourning coaches in procession to Mill Road cemetery. The
route was line by people and many were the manifestations of sympathy with the
mourners. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Mr Ellis Merry.

c.34.7

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 13th May

1977

The RAF disclosed officially that jet aircraft from RAF Wyton practice engine
failures over Huntingdon but declined to comment on newspaper reports that a Wyton
jet which crashed on the Oxmoor estate, killing five was practising a simulated
engine failure when the disaster happened. A spokesman emphasised the manoeuvre is
not dangerous and one engine was merely throttled back and can be put on to full
power if something goes wrong.

1952

Nearly 100 children walked calmly out of Richmond Road Infants’ School, Cambridge
when fire swept the 50-foot-long school roof. The school caretaker, Mrs E.N.
Mansfield said: “The children were perfectly calm and they walked out with their
little coats so smartly”. The headmistress (Miss W.E. Chandler) and her assistant,
Miss K.E. Buck took their pupils to a nearby recreation ground while firemen
tackled the blaze on the tiles. The Chief Constable, Mr B.N. Bebbington, was
amongst a crowd of willing helpers who moved school furniture and equipment to
safety

c.36.5
1927

An 18-hole putting green on Jesus Green, Cambridge, was opened by the Mayor. This
is an innovation so far as the town’s open spaces are concerned and promises to be
a great attraction. There was a good attendance of aldermen and the chairman said
that many of them played golf, and he understood that everyone who played golf
could swear (Laughter). The Mayor said he did not play golf and they could assume
from that there was another thing he could not do. Cambridge owed the initiation of
the green to the generosity of Col Tebbutt who promised £150 if such a green was
provided. It had cost £200. The Mayor played the first round and won by three
holes.

c.38 : golf

1902

A young Cambridge man who was imprisoned through being in arrears on a wife’s
maintenance payment contracted small-pox whilst lying at the county gaol, Castle
Street. He was removed to the hut but succumbed to the disease on Sunday last.
Deceased, we believe, had only been in gaol 18 days. He was buried last night.

c.21.1
Tuesday 14th May

1977

Drug addiction in Cambridge is running at a rate of more than seven times the
national average – and addicts are spending as much as £70 a week on their habits.
The drugs used are mostly Dexedrine and barbiturates, along with Mandrax, cannabis,
amphetamines, heroin and LSD. In Cambridge there are 45 registered drug addicts on
opiates and 15 known to be addicted to soft drugs – making a total of 60 known to
the authorities, but this may only be about 10 per cent of the problem. There were
330 prosecutions for drug offences in Cambridgeshire in 1976

DRUG

1952

Dominated by the money-spinning Cambridgeshire Invitation Cup competition, which

gave their fans their biggest treat for years, the local Soccer season just ended
has been notable in many respects. The competition, which saw Cambridge United
carry off the Blue Riband of Cambs football, produced keen local rivalry and over
25,000 spectators watched the four ties played with 9,814 people at the final. It
was without doubt the United’s best-ever season. They finished fourth in the
Eastern Counties League, won the United Counties League Cup final and reached the
final of the Hunts premier Cup.

1927

Fifteen years ago the Mayor, as plain Mr J. Conder, suggested that that Lammas Land
at Newnham, might be turned into a recreation ground. “I little thought it would
come true”, he confessed when he opened the said Lammas Land to the general public.
This latest recreation ground will supply a long-felt want. The habits of the
people had improved and one reason was the provision of suitable recreation which
enabled them to enjoy themselves in a healthy and happy way.

c.32.3
1902

A motion was made in the Chancery Court for an injunction to restrain the Bishop of
Ely and the churchwarden of Cowlinge from interfering with the village minister in
his enjoyment of the living and the emoluments thereof and instituting any other
person to the living. His wife had been granted a separation order and given the
custody of their five children. After the Bishop gave notice to deprive him of his
ministry the churchwardens had kept him out of the church and threatened to eject
him from the vicarage house

Wednesday 15th May

1977

It’s three cheers for the red, white and blue in New Road, Sawston, where two
families have already hung out the bunting for the Queen’s Silver Jubilee. The
homes now sport flags, bunting, a Union Jack and a giant-size poster of the Queen.
“We are organising a street party for the children of New Road on June 6th and we
thought we’d decorated the houses in advance”, they said.

1952

The first meeting of the Cambridge Vegetarian Society was well attended. One of the
objects was to interest people in the Food Reform movement and to give ocular as
well as gastronomical proof that vegetarians live well without the necessity for
eating the flesh of animals. A tasty and tasteful array of vegetarian dishes had
been prepared. Vegetarianism was a pioneering and minority movement but was
received by the Press and public with more respect than formerly

1927

The complete story of the Festival Theatre in Newmarket Road was told by Mr C.
Harold Ridge to the Cambridge Rotary Club. It had sprung from the kindred interests
of Mr Gray, Mr Prentice and himself. They had spent a couple of years in London
searching for a suitable building to start a repertory theatre but regulations made
it impossible. They considered Sheffield but eventually the Barnwell Theatre was
taken. They wished to present some of the great number of plays which stood no
chance of being publicly performed elsewhere. There was no room for actors who
wanted to be waited on at the Festival Theatre. All were expected to make
themselves useful, putting their hands to stage carpentry and before one
performance were washing down the stage steps. They worked seven days a week and 14
hours a day, and everyone was frightfully keen.

c.76

1902

Cambridge councillors considered a report on a scheme for the establishment of a

municipal telephonic system. The probable cost for a system with 500 subscribers
would be £10,000. This was a small sum when the council spent nearly double that
amount on certain luxuries. £12,000 would cover the cost of putting down facilities
for another 500 lines. If the system were adopted subscribers would be able to get
on to the trunk line.

c.27.7
Thursday 16th May
1977

The Bar Hill Residents’ Association was formed as a result of a meeting in October
1967 and now plays an important role in the village. It liases between individual
residents, the parish council and the developers and can act as a clearing house in
any dispute. It has been involved in a project to construct an adventure playground
and there are annual events such as the village firework display and fete. Its
major function is to produce the monthly “Bar Hill News” which informs villagers of
local activities, events and amenities, thus fostering the community spirit.

1952

Over ten years ago St Andrew’s Street Baptist Church commenced work on the Ditton
Fields Estate, Cambridge. A Sunday School was opened in the old Community Centre
and later an Army hut was bought and re-erected on a grass verge on the estate. Now
a new advance is in prospect; a splendid site at the corner of Dudley Road was made
available by the Corporation and work is proceeding on the new building.

1927

The foundation stone-laying in connection with the new houses being built by the
Cambridge Housing Society at Green End Road, Milton Road was performed by the
Master of Trinity. The Society was formed to provide houses for people with larger
families who are not in a position to pay council house rents. Overcrowding
produced bad results and in Cambridge there were 200 condemned houses which could
not be scrapped because there were no other houses in which to put the occupants.
It was hoped that what was spent on these houses would be saved on gaols,
workhouses, hospitals and other institutions.

c.23

1902
The Cambridge Gazette Company has been wound up. As the business had proved so
unprofitable the daily and weekly papers had been discontinued but a number of
hands were engaged in jobbing printing work. Liquidators discharged them and
proceeded to realise the assets. They had arranged the sale of the printing plant,
machinery and effects in January 1901 but had no funds to meet the claims of the
creditors or shareholders. There was no object in delaying the winding up further.

c.04

Friday 17th May

1977

Massive housing estates like Arbury in Cambridge and Oxmoor in Huntingdon are
breeding grounds for drug abuse, says a Cambridge psychiatrist. While some of the
young people started taking drugs through their family doctor’s normal
prescriptions, abuse was master-minded by European drug barons who imported the
material via the east Coast ports. The influx of amphetamine-based drugs (pep
pills) into large estates was considerable and there is a very sophisticated
distribution network. Cannabis cost between £8 and £10 per quarter ounce – enough
to last a casual user five or six days. Heroin cost around £40 a gramme.

1952

The Anglo-USA and Allied Services Club on Shire Hill, Cambridge, is now open for
service men and women every evening, but although they have the basic equipment and
some books and games, there are a number of articles still needed to improve the
amenities. Amongst these is a piano. They also badly want a wireless set, a
gramophone and records, garden furniture, a ping-pong table and a clock–a
particularly the clock

1927

Cambridge councillors proceeded to the site of the open-air school which, when
completed, will provide accommodation for 120 physically and 50 mentally defective
children. The two departments will be quite separate. They read of children who
were excluded from school owing to ill-health and many were running wild in the
streets without education or discipline. The remedy was a day open-air school where
they could receive the treatment they required – open air, good food and rest,
while at the same time their education would be continued. Vinery Road school had
been opened in May 1916 with 20 children and benefits had far exceeded
expectations. When this new school was finished they would look back with amusement
on the tent used as a classroom and the first wooden shelter which was still in
good enough condition to be moved there.

c.36.5

1902

Sir – now every one is thinking how best to celebrate the Coronation I suggest that
this is a suitable time to free from toll the bridge at Clayhithe. It that were to
thrown open it would be a great boon to hundreds of people both at Cambridge and
Waterbeach. The Cam Sailing Club have their headquarters there and cyclists should
move to free the bridge, as one of the prettiest rides around here is through
Horningsea, Clayhithe, Waterbeach and Milton – R.P.B.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 20th May

1977

A Conservative, Coun Maurice Garner, was elected Mayor of Cambridge for the coming
year, succeeding Coun Bob Wright. A legal executive with a city firm of solicitors
he is closely connected with many local organisations and has served on the council
for 11 years. Yesterday he recalled how he first won his West Chesterton seat. It
was all a family affair, he said – there are so many of his relatives living in
West Chesterton that it was a simple matter to get elected. All the family voted
for him and gave him a big majority!

1952

Known throughout Cambridge as “Lightning”, 78-years-old Ernest Siggers, a former

well-known local newsvendor has died. He lived the life of a recluse. The only time
his neighbours in Fitzroy Street ever took any notice of him was just before he
went to Linton Hospital in 1948. On that occasion he lit an explosive flu cleaner
to clear the chimney of soot. It cleared the soot all right. And early cleared the
flat and its contents too.

1927

The foundation stone of the Brunswick School in Walnut Tree Avenue, Cambridge was
laid. It will provide accommodation for nearly 1,100 children. The Mayor said it
was unfortunate, perhaps, that the other Brunswick School fell down but this was a
better building. When they compelled children to go to school there was an
obligation to see the building provided as much fresh air and sunlight as possible.
They hoped that with the extra communication which some day would make traffic over
the river easier for schoolchildren (laughter) Chesterton people would send their
children to that school

c.36.5

1902

A young man in charge of a horse attached to a cart left it unattached in the

station yard at Ashwell while he took a parcel to the booking office. The horse
became restive, dashed off into the goods yard and crossed the sidings to the main
line, following closely in the wake of the 7.39 down train. The runaway continued
on its career till it reached the Litlington gate level crossing where in
endeavouring to cross the line it fell. It was at length secured and seemed none
the worse for its gallop.

Tuesday 21st May

1977

The bees are back in the wall at the Bees in the Wall. It is quite a relief to the
landlord of the Whittlesford pub, Mr David Smith, because he has heard an old tale
that if bees desert a building it falls down. The pub’s name was changed from the
Exhibition many years ago when bees first colonised high in the wall. They
disappeared last October but a new swarm has now arrived, giving every indication
that they intend to remain. Upstairs from the pub, in Mr Smith’s lounge, are two
glass panels showing back of the nest so he will be able to check the swarm’s
progress

1952

When Reach fair was proclaimed by the Mayor of Cambridge (Ald. H.O. Lagdon) on
Monday schoolchildren from Wicken and Upware revived the aged custom of arriving in
a barge on the Reach Lode. Rigged with sails the boat had been navigated from
Upware. It is many years since anyone set sail for Reach fair but some of the
children say they have heard their parents talk of having made the same journey.
The boat was moored in the Hythe where it formed part of the background for the
proclamation by the Town Clerk of Cambridge (Mr Alan Swift)

1927

There is one day in the whole year when the little village of Reach throws off its
cares and takes a holiday all on its own – the day of its fair. And this year the
day re-captured its old spirit of joyous abandon and merry-making. The roundabouts
soon had a load of laughing councillors who rode their wooden steeds with schoolboy
enthusiasm, the coconuts went over at a merry pace to the accompaniment of civic
cheers while the bell of the test-your-strength machine was rung time after time by
the strong men of the party, the Mayor of Cambridge showing himself to be a past-
master at the game.

1902
Swaffham Prior is unique in that it possesses two churches in one churchyard. St
Mary’s was formerly a picturesque ruin, the restoration of which began in 1878 when
the chancel and vestry were rebuilt. The next process in the work included the
restoration of the whole body of the church and both aisles. They are practically
finished at the present time, the walls and roof having been completed. The work
remaining to be done includes the flooring and glazing of the windows. It once
possessed a steeple but now only a portion of the tower remains, dilapidated in
condition.

Wednesday 22nd May

1977

Cambridge City Council is likely to go into the public lottery business within a
couple of months. Prizes of up to £1,000 would be given – and local cultural,
sporting and welfare organisation could benefit by thousands of pounds a month.
Under new laws the council is empowered to run a lottery once a month, using the
profits for the benefit of services to the public. The council’s Conservative
leader, Coun. John Powley said: “I support the thing wholeheartedly”. So far the
only other councils who have indicated a willingness to promote lotteries are at
Great Yarmouth and Thanet

1952

Following the discovery of three vessels of Roman origin at Snailwell, experts from
the Fitzwilliam Museum have made regular visits to the new housing site on which
the discoveries were made. It is now certain that the vases, which stand several
feet in height, are of far greater archaeological value than was at first thought
and one is the first of its kind to be discovered whole. That they were unearthed
in one piece reflects great credit on the workmen who were digging a trench when
the first one was discovered.

1922

Mr Oswald Mosley, Labour MP for Smethwick, was howled down when he attempted to
address a meeting under the auspices of the Cambridge University Labour Club at
Cambridge Guildhall. Some 300 undergraduates congregated as the back of the hall
and shouts, cat-calls, and cheers were almost continuous, completely drowning the
speakers’ voices. Mr Mosley, exerting his powerful voice to the utmost, battled
gallantly for a hearing for half an hour but eventually sat down and the meeting
was abandoned.

c.33

1902
Ely Board of Guardians discussed what they proposed to do in regard to the
Coronation and agreed to only one day’s festivities. Mr Darby said they at Sutton
wished to bring over to the village all the inmates belonging thereto. The
Guardians had no objection. Coronation fare for the inmates should be similar to
that provided at Christmastime and during the afternoon they would be allowed to
attend the festivities in the town. Each would be presented with a Coronation medal
and the Master would provide four sets of draughts and dominoes for the use of
inmates.

>
Thursday 23rd May

1977

Each Sunday thousands of spectators flock to the West Row stadium, Mildenhall to
cheer on their heroes, the Fen Tigers. And the heroes do not have to be adults. One
rider in the mixed pairs was Melvyn Taylor who is just 16 years old. The stadium
has mushroomed from humble beginnings in a mere three years. There is a good
pavilion, a large bar, a snack room and various caravans dispensing hot dogs, beer,
ice creams, cups of hot drink and souvenirs. The riders themselves are a mixed bag;
there are one or two professionals like captain Bob Coles and there are promising
young riders from the area. Admission is 80p adults, 35p children

1952

Just before six o’clock this morning Mr Frank Webster was in bed in a room above
his shop in Magdalene Street, Cambridge when he heard a terrific bang. A six-tonner
lorry loaded with 15 tons of wheat had crashed into the shop at the corner of
Northampton Street, ploughed through the wall and ended up with its front wheels
where the counter used to be. It had swerved to avoid another lorry which also
crashed into the shop. Between them the vehicles made the place look as if it had
received a direct hit from a bomb

c.44.6

1922

The coming of age of Viscount Hinchingbrooke was celebrated at Huntingdon. Luncheon

was served to the tenantry & Colonel Chichester, Chief Constable, on behalf of the
tenants presented Lord Hinchingbrooke with a magnificent travelling clock and
weather barometer. In the evening the house staff and employees on the farms and
gardens were entertained to tea at which his Lordship was presented with a handsome
silver inkstand. The band of the 5th Hunts Battalion, Northants Regiment played for
dancing.

1902

At the annual inspection of the Second Cambridge Company of the Boys Brigade
physical drill with arms, company drill and manual firing exercises were capably
done. Exercises with the dumb-bells were given and a squad gave an excellent
display on the parallel bars. Capt Titterington said they believed in teaching the
boys to look after their bodies as well as their lives. Every boy of the Brigade is
a total abstainer and non-smoker

Friday 24th May

1977

Tenpenny vanilla cornets were given away free in Lion Yard, Cambridge as two ice
cream bosses lined up for battle. Mr John “Country Boy” Powell gave away more than
a hundredweight of his home-made ice-cream as part of his cold war against rival
seller Mr Giovanni “Lyon’s Maid” Rozzo. He claims that he has a gentleman’s
agreement with the boss of Wally’s Ice Cream to share the Lion Yard “pitch”. So
there were a few frosty glances when Mr O. De Gennare wheeled in Mr Rozzo’s barrow
and set up in competition right next door. “Its poisonous” said one schoolboy to
another who was clutching no less than three chocolate cornets to his chest. “I’ve
gone mad”, Mr Powell told the inquisitive.

1952

Mr George Blows of the Cambridge Daily News Photo-engraving department gave an

interesting lecture to Newmarket Camera Club on photo-engraving in line and
halftone reproductions for newspapers. From the time a news photograph was taken,
developed and printed and the halftone block ready for newspaper printing, a period
of 1½ hours elapsed. During this time it was copied no fewer than seven times
before it finally appeared in print. Drawings from bleached-out photographs,
commercial art drawings by Mr G.F. Thompson and cartoons by Lewis in black and
white block reproductions were also shown.

c.04

1922
Prompt action by a young Ely man averted what might have proved serious damage at
an Ely railway bridge. The fire occurred at the Cresswells bridge over the River
Ouse. The bridge, which is an iron structure, has a large amount of wooden
sleepers, well pickled, and it was here the fire originated with flames rising
seven feet into the air. Realising that a train was due to pass over he attacked it
with pails of water from a tank close by. His first idea was that it was caused by
a passing steamer or barge on the river but it is now thought it was started by a
spark or hot cinders falling from a passing engine.

1902
Cambridge is the centre of a prosperous agricultural district. To the north lie the
fens, a rich corn-growing district; to the south and east are light sheep and
barley lands and to the west heavy clay lands which, in past times, have produced
large wheat supplies, but which now in consequence of agricultural depression, have
been largely laid down to grass.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 27th May

1977

Police Sergeant Ray Dukes was proceeding in an easterly direction at midnight when
he spotted something irregular – a giant turtle walking along Downing Street,
Cambridge. It was not just an ordinary giant turtle, it was a giant snapping turtle
and it was very angry. Taking care to avoid the snapping jaws, which can chop off a
finger without too much trouble, he carried the turtle into the nearby Department
of Zoology. The only person there was the night porter, Mr Charles Willard, who
promptly locked it up for the night. Now the police are appealing for its owner to
come forward and claim it

1952

Cambridge City Council received with thanks a gift from Papworth Industries of a
carrying case for the Mayoral chain. Some 235 guest were present at a complimentary
dinner at the Dorothy to the outgoing Mayor Ald H. O. Lagdon. He was “a tradesman,
a man of humble birth” who had carried off his duties connected with the visit by
the Queen as if to the manner born. There was one occasion when he had not followed
the traditions of the city. He did not ride on a roundabout at Reach Fair!

1927
A new private road – Sedley Taylor Road – will be opened shortly leading from the
Hills Road via Luard Road to Long Road. It has been constructed under the
supervision of Messrs Bidwell & Sons, acting on behalf of Trinity College on whose
building estate the road is situated. It opens up a large number of building sites
in this popular residential district. The late Mr Sedley Taylor was a distinguished
Fellow of Trinity and well known for his foresight in promoting the establishment
of school dental clinics in Cambridge, the first in the country.

c.44.6 # c.23

1902

Won on Whit Monday at Dersingham by A. Brown of Milton, 1st prize, pair of solid
silver candlesticks, value £7. This prize was won on a New Chesterton Bicycle, made
to order. Racing machines a speciality. I invite customers to see their machines
being constructed. Riding tuition free if a new machine is purchased. Tyres re-
rubbered and repaired from 8/6 each. Repairs and machines overhauled at moderate
charges by experienced workmen – W.J. Ison, Chesterton Cycle Works, Chesterton
Road, Cambridge – advert.

Tuesday 28th May

1977

Births, marriages and deaths have become a way of life for Mr Peter Layng. For he
has spent the last 11 years copying out parish registers. The first register he
copied was of Stapleford when he was researching his wife’s side of the family and
his hobby took off from there. Now he spends almost every morning at the County
Record Office and is working on his 45th register. He has copied out big registers
such as Bassingbourn as well as small ones like Tadlow. His lists are typed up in
quadruplicate by Mr Colin Hatton and his wife Angela.

1952

The village of Impington has achieved a long awaited ambition in that it now has a
vicarage. It had been discussed as long ago as 1666 but plans were made for the
present building in 1937. There was little progress during the war but in 1946 the
site was bought and since then the vicarage has been built. A chain of pennies was
organised to clear the debt and the last two coins were handed over to the vicar by
two old inhabitants – Mr R.C. Unwin who has been verger for 18 years and Mrs C.
Peck who came to Impington as a young girl.

1927

Buses are taking people right through Regent Street into the town and, once there,
they make their purchases at the nearest shop. Now Regent Street tradesmen have
organised a shopping week & made their windows more than usually attractive. They
claim to be the “Street of Specialists’ Traders” & boast the only taxidermist in
Cambridge and many more lady hairdressers than any other street. A slogan is being
used: “You get what you want and want what you get in Regent Street”

1902

A violent thunderstorm passed directly over Cambridge & exceedingly vivid flashes
of lightning were witnessed. One was seen to strike the chimney stack of 116 York
Street, a house occupied by a labourer named Charles Chapman, & several bricks fell
down the chimney into the fireplace. A house at 21 Victoria Park was also struck
and 250 slates dislodged. Rain descended in such torrents that the drains could not
carry it away quickly enough. Several houses in Silver Street were flooded and when
the Pitt Press boys left work many took off their shoes and stockings to ford
Trumpington Street which was several inches under water.

Wednesday 29th May

1977

The Mayor of Cambridge, Coun Maurice Garner, has offered to arrange skate-boarding
sessions for city children in the Corn Exchange, where the council has a roller
skating area, to keep them off the streets and away from the traffic. The new craze
is rapidly gaining popularity and already some schools have banned their pupils
from practising in the school grounds. For months the Road Safety Committee has
expressed concern at the growing practice of skateboarding in the streets. A
council report concludes: “As more people join in with the sport there is no doubt
that the local authority will be asked to provide skate parks such as are provided
in the United States”

c.38 : roller skating

1952

Biscuits have come to Newmarket to stay. For the last month Meredith and Drew Ltd,
the world-famous biscuit makers, have been finding their feet in what used to be
the old flax factory in the Fordham Road. They have already started production and
have ambitious plans for the future. Ultimately they hope to concentrate their
entire chocolate wafer biscuit production at the factory which will be as modern
and hygienic as any in the country. When it is in production at least 350 people
will be employed, mostly girls.

1927

A remarkable story of the exploits of youths in temporarily appropriated cars,

which were subsequently abandoned, was related to Cambridge magistrates. Two
teenage boys were charged with stealing a Morris Cowley motor car to the value of
£80, two gallons of petrol and a quantity of oil. The lads were guilty of a
“foolish prank” It was evident that they went out for what was called a “joy ride”
and had no intention of stealing it [SUBS – THIS IS THE FIRST REFERENCE I REMEMBER
SEEING TO THE TERM “JOY RIDE” – MIKE]

1902

Albert Easy of Cottenham applied for an order exempting his child from vaccination.
He said a child in the village was healthy before vaccination but afterwards it was
all over sores and a nonconformist minister’s son had been ill through vaccination.
The chairman said it was better to have it. The boy would not be able to go either
into the army or the Civil Service unless he had been vaccinated. The application
was refused.

Thursday 30th May

1977

Firemen risking their lives searched for a husband and wife believed trapped inside
the blazing Conservative Club at Huntingdon. Fire raged through the downstairs area
of The Views, George Street as four teams of firemen searched for the steward and
stewardess until word was received that they had begun a holiday. The fire
destroyed the lounge and most of the bar area of the 19th century building. The
downstairs reception area was also damaged its portrait of Mrs Margaret Thatcher
blackened by soot and smoke.

1952

Unless residents and firms in the Newmarket rural area apply economies in their use
of water in the near future, there is likely to be a “desperate” shortage. The
position is extremely acute owing to the continued lack of water. Every pumping
station is working at full pressure but the output is still insufficient. A new
regional water scheme which will supply main water from a new well at Chippenham is
likely to be in operation at the end of the summer and a brand new reservoir has
been built at the top of Newmarket’s Warren Hill

1927

A Cambridge Swifts Football Club player was suspended for a month for threatening
the referee following his receiving “marching orders” in the final of the Cottenham
Nursing Cup. Mr Smith, the referee said the player threatened to smash his brains
out after the match after he had ordered him off for deliberately kicking the
centre-forward of the home club on the thigh.

1902

Sir – the county council is much misunderstood by the majority of Cambridge people
who seem to regard us with suspicious eyes and seek to alienate the town and county
by setting up Cambridge as a county borough. As I look back over the last 14 years
there is not a single instance where Cambridge has not had the utmost consideration
and fairness of treatment from the hands of the County Council. The setting up of
the backs of Cambridge people against the Council is the work of a small body of
discontents – C.C.

Friday 31st May

1977

Flag-draped homes, street parties and organised sports and entertainments will
herald the Queen’s Silver Jubilee at Haverhill. All day Monday will be devoted to
parties organised by streets and courts on the town’s estates & Jubilee Day will be
celebrated on the recreation ground with a Haverhill Girls v USAF basketball match
and culminate with a torchlight procession and bonfire. At Linton there will be a
wheelbarrow race, all old age pensioners will receive free food tokens and jubilee
crowns will be distributed to schoolchildren. Horseheath will stage a village fair
and a town crier in full period dress will herald the jubilee message around
Wickhambrook, visiting each of the eleven ‘greens’ which make up the parish.

1952

Animal lovers will be sorry to hear that the Cambridge Cat’s Home in Garlic Row is
to lose its superintendent, Miss D. Toomey. Her departure is much regretted by the
Cambridge branch of Our Dumb Friend’s League for since she arrived in 1948 she has
made so many improvements that the Home is now probably one of the finest in
England. She has cared for about 7,000 animals & everything possible has been done
to provide them with comfortably lodgings, good food and affection. All the bowls
are washed and sterilised with the utmost care in a kitchen equipped with a
refrigerator to ensure keeping the milk, fish etc fresh.

c.19

1927

The Mercury Press has produced a verse by Quentin Nelson, in which an undergraduate
learns that a road is to be built across Coe Fen, and gives vent to his feelings:
“Every frog and every toad, Will croak damnation to your soul!” Well in the first
place we don’t speak of Coe Fen Road now – it is Fen Causeway – and secondly most
of us believe the Fen is being appreciated more nowadays that ever it has been in
the past. Still Mr Nelson’s poetic outburst is none the less interesting because we
do not happen to agree with him

c.73

1902

At a sale at the Lion Hotel, Cambridge a terrace of three newly-erected villas upon
the Cherryhinton Road was put up for auction. A hint was made about electric trams
which it was hoped would shortly be in vogue and increase the value of such a
property. At £1,125 the three villas were knocked down to Mr Goldsmith. Two
dwelling houses in Catharine Street were sold for £160. The auctioneers stated they
failed to see how such property could depreciate in value. Bidding for four
cottages at Toft started at £7.10s. apiece and were eventually sold for £65

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 3rd June

1977

With the opening of another section of the M11 it seemed a good idea for four
“News” writers to set off for London. Each took a different route, setting off from
Lensfield Road to Marble Arch departing at10.45 am. David Utting took the A11,
clocking up 60 miles. The journey took two hours ten minutes. His verdict: “More a
route to swear at than swear by”. Tony Jedrej tried out the M11. It was three miles
longer but took the same time. Rodney Tibbs drove on the A10 via Ware, a route of
55 miles & took one hour 45 minutes. John Gaskell recorded the fastest time on the
A1 (M). It took him one hour 37 minutes to cover the 61 miles.

1952

There are gaps in Girton to be filled as a result of sporadic war-time development

in the village. Mr J.J. Crown said in 1945 that his firm had purchased land in
Cambridge Road to build 90 houses. It was not to be ribbon development – they
propose to develop the back land. Building land was very scarce and he had received
inquiries practically every day from people wishing to build, but who had no land.
There was the question of a proposed by-pass on the Cambridge side of Girton to be
laid in the next 20 years. Girton would be contained within the line of the by-
pass.

1927

Right alongside Fenner’s cricket ground in Cambridge is a dumping pit for horse
droppings and sweepings of the street. The authorities empty this store in mid-
afternoon which permits visitors to get the full flavour of the town. Now orders
have been given for the labourers to get to work before 9 a.m., but there is a slip
– they forgot to give orders not to fill the receptacle while play was in progress!
Would it not be possible to have the hole finally closed and let the entrance to
Fenner’s be clean pleasure?

c.29 # c.21.1

1902

June 2nd 1902 is a date which will be indelibly fixed in the minds of Cambridge
people, for it marks not only the blessed announcement of the proclamation of Peace
in South Africa but also the trial at Cambridge assizes of various persons for
conspiring to defraud Caius College in their meat accounts, a case that has not
parallel in Cambridge history and which has created the most profound interest
throughout the kingdom.

Tuesday 4th June

1977

The jubilee jubilations have begun in feverish earnest and Mid-Anglia is going red,
white and blue all over. There were rumours that this sort of thing no longer stirs
the imagination of the British public but News offices have been flooded with
details of more than 3,000 jubilee events. Hundreds of street parties are being
organised. Thoday, the fabric firm have out of their specially-designed Union Jacks
and red, white and blue material within one and a half days and 20,000 red, white
and blue plants are on their way to city flowerbeds and shop displays.

1952

In spite of its size Sawston has never had a church hall and for the last 17 years
parishioners have worked and saved. The war intervened but at the end of 1950 the
project was revived. Several sites were considered and one in Church Lane,
centrally placed between “Old Sawston” and the post-war housing estates selected. A
building licence was granted on the strict condition that only voluntary labour
should be used & work started in earnest. The labour force consists of 63 men, boys
and girls and they have now erected the “shell” of the building. Work begins at
6.30 each evening and continues until nightfall. It is hoped the hall will be
finished before the end of the year

1927
Demonstrations of hostility against the Vicar of the Essex village of Manuden have
been staged on alternative nights in the village streets outside the Vicarage since
he returned from London, where he had married within a month of the death of his
wife, the nurse who had been in attendance during his wife’s last illness. A crowd
numbering about 300 armed with petrol cans, pieces of sheet iron and a bugle, made
as much noise as possible. One said: “we are trying to show the displeasure of the
village and will carry on in order to move them out”. A neighbour said: “This
mobbing is in very bad taste. The vicar has done nothing wrong morally and legally
in marrying again”.

1902

Peace in South Africa produced strife in Cambridge – one of those fierce contests
between the police and the united forces of town and gown which, combined with the
destruction of property, constitutes a “rag”. In King Street a large double gate
was attacked as wood for a bonfire but a vigorous-looking dame appeared from the
other side. Her only weapon was a duster, but such a formidable appearance did she
present that the crowd melted away before her advance. Skirmishers went towards the
Circus of Varieties to obtain a hoarding but this was well guarded and soon they
were retracing their steps.

c.36.9

Wednesday 5th June

1977

Ashwell Street is no walk for the timorous. It needs nerves of steel to pass dogs
barking and straining at the leash as the lane wends its seven miles between
Ashwell and Melbourn. It is always hitting the headlines with stories of its
squatters’ rights problems, damage to neighbouring property at Litlington and
litter, particularly at the Ashwell End. It is easy to understand why this is one
of the more “unknown” green lane rambles. Maybe its not risking life and limb, but
it comes darned close to it – David Waterson

1952

Ever since he was a young land “Shorty” Hallen has been fascinated by motor cycles.
Some 20 years ago he started a business of his own in a small shed in Chesterton.
Then in 1936 he opened his showrooms at Chesterton Road, Cambridge. Now he has
opened another shop at the Bridge Garage, St Ives. Who could have visualised that
the rather tumbled-down buildings could have been turned into the magnificent
premises they now are? Instead of a musty-looking building it is a brightly
painted, well set out and amply stocked showroom with everything for the motor
cyclist. It will add to the usefulness, drawing capacity and charm of the town.

c.26.48

1927

Chief Os-Ke-Non-Ton, a prince of the Mohawk tribe, gave a fascinating song recital
of North American and Red Indian music at Cambridge guildhall. Arrayed in the
picturesque costume of his race he rendered invocations, incantations and war
whoops of various tribes and concluded with a selection of primitive Red Indian
music to tom-tom accompaniment, and a demonstration of making fire by rubbing
sticks together. The local arrangements were made by Messrs Miller & Son.

c.69

1902

The following notice has been issued by the Vice Chancellor of Cambridge
University. “Whereas the attendance of members of the University at certain public
exhibitions, performances and places of dramatic entertainment has been productive
of grave disorder, notice is given that the attendance of any member in statu
pupillari at the Circus of Varieties, Auckland Road, is prohibited and will render
him liable to be punished by suspension, rustication, expulsion or otherwise.”

c.76 # c.36.9
Thursday 6th June

1977
More than 5,000 people cheered and sang the National Anthem when the only beacon in
Hertfordshire was lit. The 30-foot-high beacon was situated in Beacon Field only a
few hundred yards away from Tuthill Manor, Therfield, home of Mr & Mrs Rex Corbett
who spent 16 years restoring the house. As the fire roared into life the high wind
carried clouds of sparks over the field and as they descended hundreds nestled into
the thatched roof of Tuthill Manor. The fire brigade provided a water carrier but
the spray could not reach the top of the thatch & Royston firemen were called to
douse the roof

1952

While 26 assistants searched for smoke they could smell in their living quarters
above the premises of Messrs Robert Sayle in St Andrew’s Street, Cambridge, a thick
pall poured out of one of the windows on the top floor. When the alarm was raised a
score of them dashed downstairs and through the shop carrying their belongings with
them. One assistant, Miss Ann Todd, said: “I thought of all of my clothes and I
struggled down from my room with masses of them. I wasn’t going to leave them
behind”. As it was Thursday afternoon there were only about 30 people in the
premises at the time. Staff organised a chain of buckets until the arrival of the
Fire Brigade.

c.27.2

1927

Cambridge Undergraduates took upon themselves the duty of opening “Joanna

Southcott’s” famous box on the Market Hill. A crowd of mammoth proportions
assembled. A melancholy dirge was heard from Petty Cury and there appeared a party
of pipers and following them in one of Dale’s lorries came a weird array of 24
“bishops” and a delegation of “Mormons” wearing huge straw sombreros. One
“archbishop” proceeded to open the box, producing several layers of red tape, a
teddy bear, a pair of old football boots and a number of bananas with which he
pelted the crowd.
The “rag” was organised to provide funds for the Cambridge Fruiting Campaign to
help strawberry pickers in the Wisbech area.

c.36.9 # c.39

1902

Chesterton medical officer reported on the provision made for smallpox patients in
the district. The hospital was now clear of patients and was closed. There was
still a possibility of cases occurring, as the disease was still present in London.
The buildings would be at once available for use & the staff of the Cambridge
Corporation was also at their service.

Friday 7th June

1977

Thousands of people attended Cambridge’s main jubilee celebrations – rustic games,

music, a river boat procession and fireworks – on Midsummer Common. For the women
there was a supermarket trolley race won by a team from Robert Sayles. Rain
dampened the start of the carnival but large crowds gathered to watch the jubilee
games and the procession of decorated motor boats which followed. The evening was
rounded off by a fireworks display and there were cheers when the final set piece
spelling out “ER II rules OK” was lit. At Thriplow a “Royal Show” included smashing
the Royal Doulton, donkey rides from Anne’s Riding Stables and a “Royal Free
Hospital” blindfold stretcher obstacle race.

c.02

1952

A Brampton man was a member of a party seeing off a newly-married couple at

Huntingdon Railway station. As a joke he chalked on the carriage the words: “Just
married. Gone to his doom”. But chalking on railway carriages is illegal and he
found himself before magistrates “for wantonly defacing” a vestibule coach, the
property of the Railway Executive. He was convicted & fined the cost of washing
down, cleaning & repainting the coach, which was 15s. It was not the railway
authority’s wish to be spoilsports and stop a bit of fun but there had been quite a
bit of this chalking and the prosecution might act as a deterrent.

1927

“Grit” is an undergraduate film taken by a little Cine-Kodak and projected by the

Kodascope at the Tivoli Cinema. It is believed to be the first serious attempt in
an English University to obtain experience in the technique of film production and
is one of the first amateur films to be exhibited in the country. It has been
directed by Mr Dennis Arundell and we get some good views of Cambridge streets and
colleges. It shows how the stroke of a college crew is kidnapped so his boat might
not go head of the river.

c.76.9

1902

An undergraduate was summoned for cruelly ill-treating a cat. He had for some time
been annoyed by their “unmusical noises”, obtained a Martini-Henry rifle and
deliberately shot at a cat belonging to the next-door neighbour. His aim had been
very accurate and the bullet penetrated the animal’s shoulder. His intention was to
kill the cat and he did not learn until afterwards that he had not killed it.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 10th June

1977

After watching Jubilee fireworks until late last night Prince Philip flew in to
Cambridge today, his 56th birthday, to be installed as Chancellor of Cambridge
University. In the flag-waving crowd of about a thousand at St John’s playing
fields were two young girls, Jenny Nedderman & Katheryn Horsfall, carrying a
hastily made banner wishing him a happy birthday. Later several hundred people
waiting outside the Senate House broke into an impromptu rendering of “Harry
Birthday to You” as he went inside for the installation ceremony & Julie Dunham
surprised him with a birthday card and present.

1952

The season of the Cambridge year when evening dress becomes early morning wear for
some began last night when seven May Balls took place. Heading the list was Trinity
where 1,100 joined in the festivities. Dancing to Nat Temple and his band took
place beneath the college library. There was a gay scene at Corpus Christi where
parties crowded a beautifully-transformed entrance at a late hour while at Caius
there was a skirl of pipes to set the entertainment in full swing. Other balls were
held at Clare, Christ’s, Sidney Sussex and Peterhouse.

1927

The Chancellor of the Diocese of Ely presided at a Consistory Court when the Vicar
of Ickleton asked for a petition for the casting of all the bells of the church. It
had originally been decided that only one be re-cast but the bell-founders advised
they should all be done and the work had been completed. This was rather serious. .
On account of their wrongful action the bells were lost forever and no order would
restore them. The churchwardens were suspended from office and the Vicar reported
for acting in a most improper way

1902

The day of thanksgiving for peace was universally observed and in Cambridge, as
elsewhere, large congregations gathered to express the joy and thankfulness felt by
all at the termination of the long struggle waged in South Africa. The Mayor and
members of the Corporation attended service at Great St Mary’s and two special
thanksgiving services were held at King’s College chapel. At Christ Church the
curate-in-charge of the Abbey Church made fitting allusion to the termination of
the war and the National Anthem was sung at St Luke’s and St Matthew’s churches.

Tuesday 11th June

1977

Only a man of towering pride and total lack of sensitivity could fail to be awed by
assuming the ancient and distinguished Chancellorship of Cambridge University,
Prince Philip told a packed Senate House. “I give a solemn assurance that I shall
yield to no man in my devotion to the interests of the university and its
students”. About 70 demonstrators from the University Nursery Action Group stole
the limelight as he led the procession to the ceremony. They were protesting about
the lack of nursery facilities for the under-fives. The Prince gave the shouting
mothers a quizzical look and a smile.

c.36.9

1952

The skeletons of two prehistoric animals believed to be about 140 million years old
have been unearthed on the Wicken Road, Stretham. One, a plesiosaurus is thought to
be about 20 feet long, and the other is believed to be a dinosaur. The discovery
was made during dragline operations. A lorry load of gault had been tipped on to
the bank when the bones were spotted. Experts from the Sedgwick Museum visited the
site to excavate the skeletons, which are only five feet below the surface.

1927

One of the largest crowds in memory witnessed the last of what may go down in
history as the “Microphone Mays”. Both banks of the Cam at Ditton presented the
spectacle of an unbroken line of sightseers. There were three men up a tree at
Ditton Paddock; they and their friend the microphone were telling all England what
was happening and theirs was truly a romance of the tree tops. One wonders how many
old Cambridge men were listening-in to a drama in which they once played a part.

c.27.8
1902

On 13th June 1889 the foundation stone of St Philip’s Church, Mill Road, Cambridge,
was laid by Professor Babington; on June 11th 1902 it was consecrated by the Bishop
to the worship of God and “for ever set apart from all profane and common uses”. A
small wooden church was built by a pious, but somewhat eccentric Churchman, which
was eventually to give place to the present building. It is a chapel-of-ease to the
populous parish which ere long may be a distinct ecclesiastical parish.

c.83

Wednesday 12th June

1977

More than 1,500 people packed into Great St Mary’s Church, Cambridge to hear the
Calcutta missionary, Mother Teresa, talk about her work among the dying and
destitute of India. She asked the congregation “not to give from their abundance
but to give from their love, till it hurts”. Earlier she had been the first to
receive an honorary degree from Prince Philip. The University Orator, Dr Frank
Stubbings spoke of her work: “She saw the multitudes and had compassion on them;
she went alone, in poverty, to the homes of the poorest, tended their illnesses and
set up a school in the midst of the slums”

c.83

1952

With all the familiar colour and dignity of a royal occasion, the date of the
Queen’s coronation – June 2nd next year – was proclaimed today to the people of the
city and county of Cambridge. It was a happy coincidence that it should mark a
fitting and optimistic finale to the gay and glittering story of the May Week
celebrations. A girl still in her May Ball gown and cloak was amongst a crowd of
people outside the Shire Hall courts when the High Sheriff, following a fanfare,
read the ancient proclamation. On the Market Square a crowd several hundred strong
was silent when the Town Clerk began to read but his voice was all but lost in the
howl from jet planes speeding overhead.

1927

Jesus College were the fastest rowers on the river and deserved to succeed in the
May Races. As in other years a huge bonfire was lighted in the grounds of the
college and the undergraduates celebrated the return of the Headship by dancing
round the flames, shouting and singing. The “orgy” was kept up to midnight. The
revels were watched by a large crowd of townspeople and some of the merrymakers
engaged in good-humoured banter, amusing them with impromptu speeches.

c.39 # c.38 : rowing

1902

The Cambridgeshire Weekly News is acknowledged to be the Cambridgeshire County

Journal and possesses an unrivalled circulation and standing throughout the County.
It gives the fullest, most accurate and most attractive reports of any newspaper.
It contains a carefully-compiled summary of home and foreign news, a bright and
attractive London letter written by a journalist of great ability and an
illustrated ladies’ letter devoted to the newest modes and fashions – Advert
c.04
Thursday 13th June

1977

Cambridge University, with its 11,000 students, is already larger that the “ideal”
size for a university, according to its new Chancellor, Prince Philip. The bigger
companies grew the more unsatisfactory their industrial relations were likely to be
and the same applied to universities. Dealing with the arrival of women in what for
almost 700 years were single-sex colleges the Prince said that if you have a
limited number of students in a college and introduce women as a third of the
number it could be difficult to provide sports teams. He thought it important that
universities should have a very significant proportion of their effort directed
towards science and engineering.

1952

Cambridge University is considering the possibility of increasing the number of

women permitted to the University in any one year. The Council of Senate recommends
there should be a new autonomous foundation for women students, the number not
exceeding 100. They consider there is a great need for women graduates but any
increase should not lead to a lowering of standards. Present regulations permit of
1,400 women, one-fifth of the total of men students. Cambridge is doing
considerably less than other Universities in providing women with a University
education.

c.36.9 : women

1927

A great deal of interest was taken in the private performance of Strindberg’s “Miss
Julie” at the Festival Theatre, Cambridge & the house was packed. The play was to
have been produced earlier in the term but owing to its public presentation being
banned by the Lord Chamberlain it had to be withdrawn. Banned plays create more
interest and discussion than they deserve. There is nothing very terrible about a
count’s daughter running away with his footman & we agree with Mr Gray that it is
difficult to find any reason for the Censor having frowned upon the piece.

1902

A public inquiry was held into the desirability of the County Council having the
control and management of the metalled roads in the county. It had been said that
county and district surveyors were acting on the same roads. Some said the parish
councils might, for a small fee, look after some 15 or 20 miles of road, others
that the County Council’s management of the main road had been a failure &
maintenance should remain with the district councils. But to keep two machines
going cost considerably more than one and management under one control would effect
a considerable saving.

c.44.65

Friday 14th June

1977

One of Cambridge’s best-known characters, Trevor Hughes, clocked up his 100th

recorded conviction at the city magistrates’ court when he admitted being drunk and
disorderly in the Market Square. As he came into court, Mr Hughes, looking thinner
and without his famous bobble hat or bushy beard said: “Good afternoon everybody”.
In court he said: “I won’t deny it, but I can’t remember. I like a little drop of
tiddly, but I’m not abusive. But people say: ‘look at that dirty old so and so',
and I lose my temper”. He was sent to prison for a month.

c.27.4

1952

Cambridge Model Aircraft Club held their first “Jetex” flying competition at R.A.F.
Waterbeach airfield. The first competing aircraft was towed in, stored snugly in a
neat box bicycle trailer and soon other men were rummaging happily as children in a
toy cupboard over the side-cars of their motor cycles or car boots. The jets have
been in the development stage for nearly five years but sometimes the jet unit
would become detached, hissing across the concrete or burn itself out in the long
grass. D. Lipscombe, who plane stayed up for one and a half minutes carried off the
Challenge Cup

1927

Three well-known Cambridge sportsmen who have completed their academic careers
distinguished themselves by spending part of the night in the grounds of one of the
women’s colleges and part in another. At midnight on Saturday they climbed into
Newnham, taking with them a tent which they pitched in full view and were not
discovered until they were all snug in “bed”, when they commenced community
singing. Newnham Dons became alarmed and phoned for the police, who turned them
out. They then motored to Girton, scaled a twelve-foot wall and pitched the tent.
They were not discovered until the early hours of the morning when the earliest
risers amongst the lady students saw the strange sight in the middle of the court.

c.36.9

1902

A large number of members of the Society of Friends from all parts of England met
at the Friends’ School, Saffron Walden, to take part in the celebration of the
200th anniversary of the foundation of the School. The day saw the opening of a new
swimming bath and gymnasium. By the courtesy of the Great eastern Railway Company
special trains at reduced fares were run from London

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 24th June

1977

Plans to make the A604 a dual carriageway between Bar Hill and Godmanchester have
provoked a far greater public outcry that at first expected. The Department of
Transport revealed it has received 91 protest letter, 24 of which were concerned
with the effects on Fenstanton. They want to improve the road to link with the
Huntingdon bypass so establishing a fast route between the East Coast ports and the
Midlands. This was necessary to cope with the future volume of traffic, expected to
reach 36,500 vehicles a day by 1995

1952

Cambridge Preservation Society object to the chalets and caravans at Grassy Corner,
Fen Ditton. They say haphazard development of individually respectable shacks has
seriously spoiled this length of river. The fifteen owners said they paid £14 a
year rent for their plots and the land flooded in winter. The gypsy encampment and
rubbish dump on the opposite side of the river made it difficult to understand the
objections. Their gardens were well looked after and of similar layout to the
“Plough” next door. If the chalets erected before the Town and Country Planning
Acts are left and the later ones removed the place will look like a mouth from
which half the teeth have been knocked out

1927

Cambridge station had a very busy weekend. Over 4,000 travelled on Saturday to
visit the Midsummer Fair. Extra carriages were attached to all incoming and
outgoing trains and late special trains were run to Haverhill, Newmarket, St Ives
and Great Chesterford.

1902

There were lively scenes at a public meeting about arrangements for celebrating the
Coronation in St John’s Ward, Cambridge. There was a good deal of controversy. They
would provide for tea for 500 at Homerton New College. But servants will say “This
is not for me; it is for the residents – my mistress and my master”. Mr Clark said:
“It is absurd to come and waste our time here. We have spent no end of time
arranging this thing, and now you want to upset it, instead of supporting us like
men”

Tuesday 25th June

1977

Roadmen on the A604 at Linton have been inconvenienced this week because thieves
have walked off with their portable toilet – the second time it has happened. The
toilet was beside the road one night. The next morning it had gone. Now they have
called in Cambridge police in the hope they can trace the missing loo. The head of
Cambridge CID, Det Supt Keith Hookham, said: “It’s the second time in less and a
month this thing has been nicked”

1952

Mr Lloyd Stokes, owner of land at Trinity Hall Farm, Milton, said there were 140
armoured vehicles on the land waiting to be shipped. He wanted an access from Green
Park because he had a number of tanks coming through the back and wished to enlarge
the front entrance on to Milton Road. It was dangerous and an agricultural machine
such as a 12-foot combine could not get through. The County council suggested the
city should buy this piece of land and put there light industry, not likely to
cause any nuisance.

c.45.8 # c.27.1

1927

Neither Borough nor County ratepayers can have much cause for satisfaction over the
roads controversy between the councils. It is a thousand pities that things should
have been allowed to reach such a pass. If both councils only stood by the lip-
service they have given to the supposed good relations between them, then the
present deplorable state of affairs would never have arisen. Now the matter will be
fought out to the bitter end. Even if Cambridge wins their case the County can
maintain the roads through the district councils.

1902

A giant mushroom has just been grown at Cottenham. This marvellous agaric measures
over four feet in circumference, weighs over four pounds and is of perfect shape.
Mushrooms exhibit a special preference for damp localities so hopes may be
entertained that the question of water supply at Cottenham, which is still unsolved
after twenty years, will shortly be brought to conclusion. It is remarkable that a
brainless fungus should have so signally succeeded where the combined wisdom of
public authorities and private parishioners has so signally failed.

Wednesday 26th June

1977

Several Cambridge United players in dispute over terms offered for Third Division
football next season have not yet signed new contracts. Manager Ron Atkinson said:
“We know for a fact that last year our players were most certainly the highest paid
in the division – and were entitled to be because they were the best. Every player
has been offered increased terms. The biggest bone of contention is that the basic
wage has not gone up as much as they would like, but the bonus scheme has gone up
by about 50 per cent. We are having to budget on shoestring gates. The players know
that what the club has got, they will get. But if it has not got any more, they
cannot get any more”

1952

Lord Woolton visited Abington Hall to open a new laboratory for the British Welding
Research Association. The laboratory, started in October 1950, is a “plastically”
designed steel structure with brick cladding and contains the most modern machines
for testing “fatigue”, stress and strain, in welded metals.

1927

When the honours degree men were presented to the Vice Chancellor there was
distinct evidence of a movement to break down the tradition of wearing evening
dress. Many graduates were in morning dress and soon the sight of men walking about
the streets of Cambridge at noon in evening dress will be a thing of the past. The
old statutes prescribed that recipients of Bachelors’ degrees must appear in black
clothes and since the war impecunious undergraduates found their only black suits
were their dress clothes. The new statute states that dark clothes must be worn
which brings in the lounge suit. The evening dress tradition is not very old and
rests on nothing but undergraduates’ customs.

c.36.9 # c.39

1902

Their primary object of isolation hospitals was to pick out early cases of
infectious diseases and isolate them so that it might not spread. Newmarket
district had a well-appointed hospital and when there had been epidemics of
scarlatina they had been stamped out rapidly. Caxton had erected a smallpox
hospital in a temporary building but thought it desirable for a central hospital
for smallpox alone. Linton wished to manage the matter entirely themselves. They
had spent an enormous sum on vaccination and an epidemic ought to be impossible.
They were very anxious to keep out of the hands of the County Council, in which
they had not much confidence.

Thursday 27th June

1977

I managed to “steal” four books from the Cambridge Central Library in Lion Yard,
just to test its new and highly complex system of checking books in and out. I just
walked out with them under my arm into the street. The new system involves
photographing a special ticket against the book borrowed. But it will not prevent
theft unless the manoeuvre I tried can be made more difficult. In the old library
one had to pass down a very narrow passageway when taking books out, and my nerve
would have failed. But in the wide open spaces of the modern library it held good.

1952

About 6,000 acres of the best fenland are devoted to the growth of celery, with an
annual production of some 70,000 tons. Of this acreage 1,500 are in Cambridgeshire.
At Whittlesey there are growers who earn a good living by producing celery crops
for planting out in fields. Prickers-out get a wage of 30s. a day, if they are very
good. During the lifting and trimming process one man lifts, one takes off the
outside leaves and another removes the roots..

1927

An inspection of the River Rhee from Guilden Morden to Cambridge showed banks were
much overgrown and a number of trees had fallen into the stream. There was only one
foot of water in the river in places. There are two mills in use, at Guilden Morden
and Grantchester. One at Harston had not been used for a year and at Barrington no
work had been possible for some years and the channel was blocked up. The river at
Shelford was in a most dilapidated state

1902

The startling and unwelcome intelligence that the Coronation of King Edward VII had
been postponed, owing to him having to undergo an operation, created a great
sensation in Cambridge. Those who first heard were incredulous and treated the
matter as a mere rumour. Scores of enquiries were received at the News by
telephone. Crowds assembled round the type-written announcements that were
displayed and turned away with expressions of mingled astonishment and pain.

c.02

Friday 28th June

1977

In five seconds George Williams of Sawston broke the world record and the skyline
at Whittlesey will never be quite the same again. He didn’t actually press the
button that reduced ten chimneys to a field of rubble – that was left to Lesley
Judd of BBC tv’s “Blue Peter. But it was his job to make sure they fell and fell in
the right place. The chimneys, ranging from 90 to 230 foot, dated from the turn of
the century and belonged to the London Brick Company; they will be replaced by only
five.

1952
A member of the Isle of Ely County Council was accused of corrupt practices. It was
alleged he had paid the landlords of the Red Lion, Three Pickerels and Cross Keys
public houses at Mepal, for the expense of providing drinks to influence electors
to vote at the election. Having been elected to the county council he gave them £1
to celebrate his victory, but it so happened he was also a candidate for the
forthcoming Ely Rural Council election. He also gave £1 to Wardy Hill Social Club,
£5 to the headmaster of Mepal school for a children’s outing and 10s to the
proprietor of the fish and chip shop. But it was not a way of creating an
atmosphere of popularity for himself which would have an effect on voters & he was
acquitted

1927

Her Royal Highness, Princess Mary, visited Papworth Village Colony and opened the
new Guides’ and Scouts’ headquarters, a hut of asbestos and wood, which has been
erected by men of the settlement. The village was en fete, flags flying from nearly
every house and a large crowd assembled to welcome the Royal visitor.

1902

Never before has Cambridge Corn Exchange been the scene of such a curious sight as
when a distribution was made of the large quantity of food intended to form part of
the feast to the old folks in celebration of the Coronation. When the news of its
postponement was received the cooking of the food had already begun. Several
hundred of the poorest inhabitants gathered outside the front gates of the Corn
Exchange as quickly as their too-evident infirmities would allow them. Quite a
number wrapped quantities of fruit tart in grimy newspapers that could hardly have
improved their semi-liquid contents.

c.02

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 1st July

1977

A Bar Hill shopkeeper, Mr John Wilson, will be closing down the grocery side of his
business when the new Tesco superstore opens. Since January 1976, Bar Hill has been
without a grocer’s because Keymarket decided there was not enough trade to keep
their small supermarket going. Their shop still stands empty. Mr Wilson stepped
into the breach, supplying basic groceries from his fish and chip shop. Now he
hopes to be ‘frying tonight’ for hundreds of shoppers parking behind his shop for
the new Tesco store.

1952

Mr W. Levett (just “William” to everyone at Cambridge’s Lion Hotel) recalled some

of the dinners he had served there over the last 50 years. There was a special
private party for Prince Albert while he was up at Trinity and his list of Very
Important Diners ranged from barons to Sultans and Prime Ministers. “I’ve served
most of them … Balfour, Asquith, Lloyd George (he used to live here almost),
Baldwin – and Churchill”. Undergraduate members of renowned clubs like the Beef
Steak, True Blue, Caledonian and Carlton have dined there. “Twelve to 15 courses we
used to carry, and they took two-and-a-half hours to serve. And, mind you, nothing
less than a magnum for the table”. He is a cheerful, energetic little man and it
would be a good idea if the hotel management entertained “William” to dinner and
let someone wait on him – just for a change.

c.27.4

1927

Hundreds of Cambridge people forsook their beds very early and hied them to various
natural observation points in the hope of seeing something of the eclipse. Most of
the roads leading to some elevated point in the surrounding countryside had a
stream of cars, motor cycles and push cycles. In Cambridge itself people were seen
in the streets gazing skywards and framed in bedroom windows wrapped in eiderdowns
and blankets. But generally speaking the eclipse was eclipsed by clouds.

1902

As soon as the King’s illness was announced volumes of telegrams commenced to pour
into the Cambridge office. On Tuesday no fewer than 350 telegrams were waiting to
come through from London and the abnormal pressure was kept up until Friday. Press
wires, commercial wires and private telegrams increased at such a rate that in
order to cope with them employees from the postal department were drafted into the
telegraph department. Even then it was only by working at very high pressure, and
working overtime, that the staff were able to get through their task.

c.02

Tuesday 2nd July

1977

A team of Eastern Electricity apprentices are cleaning away about 150 years of
soot, cobwebs and grime from the boiler room of the old fen pumping station at
Stretham. They hope to restore it almost to the condition it was when the engine
began operating in 1831 and are repairing as many of the valves and water level
indicators as they can. The apprentices will also install lighting so that visitors
will have a better view of the room and lights will also be fitted in one of the
boilers to show its interior. The engine, which was last used in the 1940s is a
popular tourist attraction

1952

If ever a stunt fell flat it was the Pacifist demonstration at Mildenhall U.S.A.F.
base. Stretched out on their beam ends in front of the main gates, two young women
made a courageous but futile attempt to persuade a handful of American servicemen
that they would be better off at home. The demonstrators were fighting a losing
battle before they started. Earlier Mildenhall Market Place had seen some fun when
the 17 Pacifist stalwarts gathered to embark on their “Operation Ghandi”. After
tramping the hot and dusty miles to the air base for the squatting performance the
would-be builders of world peace returned for a public meeting. But an indifferent
crowd could hardly have cared less.

1927

The memorial sports pavilion in the recreation grounds at Fordham was formally
opened by Viscount St Davids. It was erected to the memory of the late Mrs Dunn-
Gardner in the grounds she gave to the parishioners. The building contains two
spacious dressing rooms, for the Cricket & Bowls clubs. Fordham possessed one of
the best recreation grounds in the whole of the Eastern Counties, what they had to
do was to improve the ground and keep it tidy. What they would like in time to come
was an athletic ground

1902

News from Cottenham as to the outbreak of typhoid fever becomes daily more serious.
Twelve cases are now reported and in three more persons the disease is suspected.
The cases are attributed to the bad water available in the parish for drinking
purposes. Whether this latest outbreak will result in some action being taken to
give the district a wholesome supply of water we cannot say. One epidemic of
typhoid had passed over the village but the warning then given was unheeded and now
Nature has taken the matter in hand in her own summary and peculiarly effective
manner.

Wednesday 3rd July

1977

More than 1,600 Cambridgeshire school-leavers – about one-third of the total -

cannot find jobs and most of them are drawing £9 a week dole money. The chances of
them finding work are even more remote than last year as there are only 175
vacancies on the books. For months the careers advisory service has been making
extensive efforts to find jobs but say they are very short of office and shop-type
vacancies.

1952

Sir – I observe that the new Davey Road has been laid out with a new grass verge
which will soon require cutting. On entering Radegund Road it gives the impression
that you are in a beautiful meadow with grass verges being preserved for hay. I
then wandered along to Brooks Road and beheld Council houses with numerous tiles
off the roofs, broken gates, fences and window sills and hardly any paint on the
woodwork at all – in fact the property looked disgraceful - Observer

1927

Many will regret the death of the Rev J.C. Rust, Vicar of Soham. In 1863 he was
admitted to Pembroke College when there were never as many as 30 undergraduates in
residence. They might have excused their absence on the river by pointing to the
fewness of their numbers but passed the resolution “That so long as there are 18
men in the college, Pembroke shall keep two boats on the river” and Rust was made
cox. In 1874 the college living of Soham fell vacant and he was instituted. He was
elected chairman of the Parish Council on its formation in 1895 and appointed a
member of the first County Education Committee. He was vice-president of the
British Esperanto Association and preached the first sermon in Esperanto.

1902

An alarming report was widely current in Cambridge that his Majesty had succumbed
to his operation. One credulous tradesman actually put a shutter up on the strength
of an absolutely unofficial report to that effect, which was posted on a shop
window adjacent to the office of the Cambridge Independent Press. The tradesman was
Mr C.S. Addison who is indignant at being credited with the responsibility of
making the erroneous announcement. He had absolutely nothing to do with the report
except that he gave permission to the Independent Press to exhibit upon his shop
front any intelligence that might come to hand. The announcement caused much pain
and indignation & ought not to be made except on the receipt of official news &
certainly not upon the strength of a mere rumour.

c.02

Thursday 4th July

1977

All the customers in Berni Inns’ Tudor Bar in Trinity Street, Cambridge looked like
shoppers rather than office workers and it seems surprising that they have not
discovered this quite spacious place to have lunch. The menu is not extensive but
is reasonably priced; it includes a ploughman’s lunch with either cheese or pate
(65p), sandwiches and, in theory, cottage pie (46p) – but the chef was not at work.
I tried the only hot pie available which the assistant “thought” was chicken and
mushroom. As far as I could tell it was beef. Having spent only £1.50 between us we
felt justified in lashing out on the speciality – liqueur coffee. At 51p it was an
extravagance, but absolutely delicious.

1952

Sir – In 1950 the Shelford and Stapleford Scout Troop was re-opened after a lapse
of many years and the first question was that of a H.Q. where meetings could be
held. The Shelford guides could not help as their barn had developed dry rot in the
floor which was no longer safe for games, and they too would soon be homeless.
After many months of effort enough was raised to buy and erect an ex-Army hut.
Permission was obtained and the H.Q. opened with great rejoicing in April 1951. But
then came the Central Land Board with a claim for a £300 development charge!

1927

Sir – in a recent issue it was suggested that a visiting sewing maid should be able
(at 2s.6d. for three hours) to earn from £2 to £3 a week. Possibly if she had no
domestic work to do for herself and were an expert machinist and dressmaker she
might, but it means working eight or nine hours to reach even £2. The eye-strain is
the worst part; I do fine mending and needlework, chiefly repairs, at 8d or 9d an
hour and can make only 13s. a week. I believe charwomen are better paid – “A poor
sempstress”

1902

At the Central Criminal Court a clerk was accused under the Official Secrets Act
that he did corruptly attempt to communicate certain information to R.J. Ashworth
Sturton. He had written to Messrs Sturton Bros, wholesale grocers at Cambridge, who
had a contract from the Supply Department offering, for a consideration, to supply
them with information as to prices and future contracts. Mr Sturton communicated
with the police at whose instance he wrote some letters to the accused, to which
the latter replied. Eventually he was arrested. The judge commended Mr Sturton’s
conduct

Friday 5th July

1977

The 600-year-old church at Wood Walton stands decaying in the middle of a field.
Its windows have been broken, its furnishings smashed. A board still announces the
psalm. It is isolated, almost a mile from the village which has a population of
less than 300. Water and electricity have never reached it – parishioners used to
carry their own candles to evensong. So it now rots. It is eerie, pathetic and
beautiful. Its situation and condition mean that it will almost certainly never be
used again and it is left to a group calling themselves “Friends of Friendless
Churches” to try and preserve it.

1952

Part of the river Mel has flooded Orchard Cottage at Station Road, Meldreth and
South Cambs RDC ought to do something about it because the river belongs to them,
said Mr Pepper. The lower half-mile of the river where it discharged into the Rhee
had been taken over by the Council. The state of the river had gone from bad to
worse. Some time ago it broke its banks and they plugged the breach, but this only
dammed the water until it reached a higher level where it broke through the banks
again. But the chairman said: “It must not go out that this Council is the drainage
authority and will clean out peoples’ ditches”

1927

Sir – the work has been started to widen Victoria Avenue, Cambridge, from the Four
Lamps to Victoria Bridge. The roadway when finished will be wide enough for vehicle
traffic to proceed four abreast. The Bridge will not be so wide as the road and
heavy traffic may mean serious congestion. Some suggest the road over the bridge
may be made wider by making the footpaths overlap the river. If this were done the
narrow road on the north side would be an obstacle and as this roadway cannot be
made right through to Chesterton Road this scheme should never go forward – E.
Clayden

c.49.62

1902

At a recent meeting of Newmarket Council Mr J. G. Cattrall opposed an application

by the Salvation Army to hire the Town Hall on the grounds that the “music” of the
Army “was all discord” and that it would “alarm the horses in the stables”. Now W.
Streeton, Divisional Officer of the Cambridge Salvation Army has written to him
saying that such refusal will not keep them out of Newmarket. He continues
“Thanking you for your assistance (?) to the work of God and reminding you that
Eternity is in the future and you may be called into account for your influence in
the above matter”.
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday July 8th

1977

Cambridge City council announced details of its £10 million redevelopment scheme
for the Kite area – and at once fell foul of the man who claims he can stop it all
from happening, 76-year-old Mr Arthur Sutton. For nearly all his life he has lived
at 1 Christchurch Street – one of the few houses which the council needs to
demolish to make way for its new shopping and car park complex. But Mr Sutton
declared: “Nobody is going to move me from the house I have occupied for 63 years.
I am there and I am going to stay put”. The new proposals are the latest in a
string of plans produced during the past 20 years, all of which have been dropped.

1952
For over 50 years Arthur Hart has been organist at the Brinkley parish church,
which the Bishop of Ely described as “a magnificent record”. Mr Hart said that long
service was not unusual. Mr Missen had been a member of the choir for 33 years, and
before that a member of en church for 22 years. The Rector said the 100-year-old
organ was a museum piece: “I don’t believe there is another organ in the whole of
England like it, but no one could play it like Mr Hart. During his long period as
organist nothing has had to be done to it”.

1927

“A state bordering on perfection” is the report of the Cambridge Public Dental

officer on the treatment of elementary school children during 1928. 642 parents had
written to refuse treatment for their children but we shall slowly educate the
public that dental treatment for children is well worth while, he says. The
improvement in the condition of the teeth has advantageously affected the physique
of the children – in 1908 17 per cent of the Cambridge children were or poor
physique, whereas in 1925 only 1.8 per cent were found to be so.

c.21.1

1902

PC Allen said he received an anonymous letter and visited the Admiral Vernon public
house at Over on the night of the annual meeting of the Stock Club. He passed
through a small bar into the room where there were 40 people. There was a central
table and men were playing cards. If he looked through the window it was impossible
to see the people who were gaming because people were smoking and there were a
number of old high-backed chairs. There was a notice in the taproom prohibiting
gaming but none in the room where the meeting was held. The Club paid 5s. for a
room from which the landlord was excluded as it was necessary they should not have
strangers among them.

Tuesday July 9th

1977

Cherry Mann’s fight for independence has ended because she has died. And only death
could have been her conqueror. She died weighing less than five stones. For 36
years – she was 38 when she died – she was the victim of a rare disease which
turned 80 per cent of her body to chalk. She was incurable, and knew it; she could
only move the forearm and three fingers on one hand. Yet she wrote in laborious
long hand stories for BBC’s Children’s’ Hour, poetry and gained her O & A levels.
She fought for a home especially adapted to her needs and moved in when others like
her had given up hope to wither away in geriatric hospitals. Her ambition was to
help people. “I’ll fight”, she used to say, “to the day I die”. And that was just
what she did.

c.21.1

1952

Delivering coal the modern way means a conveyor belt instead of sacks. Pioneers of
this new system are Messrs Austin Beales Ltd whose first Conveyor Delivery Service
vehicle has just gone into operation. The coal is loaded in bulk on the lorry and
discharges on to the belt conveyor which can deliver coal upwards, downwards or
sideways. This means it can be delivered through narrow hatchways, over the tops
off walls or down a ground level chute within a radius of 180 degrees. And it is
speedy. Five tons were delivered at Addenbrooke's Hospital in six minutes

1927

The Conservators of the River Cam considered a scheme to make the river navigable
for cargo boats up to the Quayside near Magdalene Bridge. Mr Banham had recently
bought a vessel for conveying cargo and at present it can only come as far as Jesus
Lock. There had been no traffic for years and the state of the river was very bad.
There was a possibility that the river could be dredged but the Commons Committee
had taken a lot of trouble to make Jesus Green a beauty spot and would not sanction
the deposit being placed on the Common.

c.26.3

1902

It is not a common feat to take down stone by stone, transport for fourteen miles
and re-erect, practically without alteration, a solidly-built church capable of
accommodating some 250 worshippers. That is what has been done with regard to the
old Roman Catholic Church of St Andrew at Cambridge which has been removed to St
Ives. The church is one of Pugin’s earlier masterpieces and for 59 years it was in
use in Cambridge. Then it was superseded by the magnificent new church of Our Lady
and the English Martyrs. It was in danger of falling into a ruinous condition when
the idea was conceived of transporting it to St Ives.

c.83

Wednesday July 10th

1977

Teddy Boys, ban-the-bomb and the Suez crisis are now all part of the history
syllabus. Pupils at Netherhall School have been entering into the spirit of the
1950s by coming in wearing home-made “Ted” jackets and bootlace ties, with their
hair slicked back – part of a competition for the best period costume. Parents have
contributed 1950’s “bygones” including ration books, a wedding dresses, pieces of
pioneering Titan computers and valve amplifiers. The lads have borrowed school
table knives to substitute for the dangerous 16th November flick-knives of the
50’s.

1952

Cambridge University announced proposals to erect a number of new buildings for the
arts faculties between Sidgwick Avenue and West Road. It will provide accommodation
in the first instance for the Faculty of Modern and Medieval Languages, Economics
and Politics, English and Moral Sciences. At a later stage the scheme will provide
for museums and a lecture theatre to seat 1,000 students constructed to permit its
use for musical or dramatic productions. It is not possible to say when work will
begin.

1927

Eight people were rendered homeless as a result of a fire which involved two old-
fashioned cottages in High Street Waterbeach. They were built of brick and plaster
with a galvanised iron roof over thatch. In one, containing five rooms, a pantry
and a wash house lived Mr & Mrs Cudworth and their five children, while the
adjoining cottage, occupied by Mrs Hole, consisted of four rooms. The Waterbeach
Fire Brigade was soon on the scene but the supply of water from neighbouring pumps
soon proved inadequate. Meanwhile a band of willing helpers assisted in removing
furniture & some money which Mrs Hole kept upstairs.

1902

One of the most fashionable weddings seen in Haverhill for a long time was that
when Miss Katherine Gurteen and Mr R. Ellis Long of Lolworth were united in the
bonds of holy matrimony. The event created a great amount of interest amongst the
townspeople, by many of whom the bride is greatly esteemed and she carries with her
good wishes for her future welfare. After the ceremony at the Old Independent
Chapel a reception was held at the Coupals, the guests numbering over 200. The
wedding presents were very numerous and beautiful. The honeymoon is being spent in
Switzerland.

Thursday July 11th

1977

The Conservatives scored a massive victory in the Saffron Walden by-election,

retaining the seat with an almost doubled majority, despite a low 65 per cent poll.
Mr Alan Haselhurst described it as a victory for the party led by Mrs Margaret
Thatcher. The Liberal, Mr Andrew Phillips, held on to second place but it was
Labour’s Ben Stoneham who took a pounding and returned a vote that will be
embarrassing for the Government. Mr Oliver Smedley, anti-EEC, lost his deposit with
less than 1,200 votes.

1952

The Nina Hubbard Ballet School celebrated their second anniversary with the
production of “Cinderella” as a ballet at the A.D.C. More than 60 pupils took part.
Helen Deakin was delightfully convincing in the title role while Anna Wooster
brought dignity to the role of Prince Charming and other pleasing performances were
given by Patricia Read and Irene Smith as the step-sisters. Jennifer Andrew was
outstanding as Cinderella’s father and the doll dance by Carolyn Sanders and
Margaret Jones, who danced on her points, was particularly pleasing. After the
final curtain Nina Hubbard thanked Miss Humberstone, the pianist and other helpers.

1927

Messrs Galloway and Porter, Cambridge, whose business operations extend to all
parts of the world, have formed a private limited company. Mr Charles P. Porter,
for many years sole proprietor, becomes chairman. He is well known as a Cambridge
councillor and was formerly chairman of the Free Library Committee. His clients
range from queens to factory boys and include foreign and colonial libraries
extending to every part of the globe.

c.25

1902

Cambridge welcomed the Photographic Convention of the United Kingdom, numbering

some 350 amateur and professional photographers. Quite early this morning numbers,
with their indispensable cameras, were to be seen about the town and many
impressions of the most interesting spots and ancient buildings will doubtless be
taken away. Permission has been obtained for small parties of members wearing their
badges to photograph in various colleges and churches. The official group
photograph is invariably taken by a local photographer and as so many are competent
the post was decided by draw and Mr T.B. Hunt was successful.

c.65.5

Friday July 12th

1977

A woman celebrated 50 years as a typist with the University Typewriting Office Ltd
in Cambridge. Miss Dulcie Smith from Histon joined the firm when staff were
enjoying new found freedom. “We were never allowed to come to the office unless we
were properly dressed with hats and gloves and just before that the staff were
never allowed to go into colleges unless they were chaperoned”, she said. She has
typed thousands of letters, accounts, theses and reports for dons and students and
had to master the art of typing in a number of languages without having any
knowledge of them.

c.27

1952

Mr A.H. Bailey recalls: “July 6th 1893 was the wedding day of the young and
charming Princess May of Teck and the Sailor Prince George, afterwards King George
V. It was arranged to present an address to the Royal couple when the train
conveying them to Sandringham halted at Cambridge station and the 3rd (Cambs)
Battalion, Suffolk regiment was to furnish a Guard of Honour on the platform. I had
the almost unbelievable luck in being selected for the Guard and never was pipeclay
and metal polish so well applied nor such pride beneath a scarlet tunic”. Later the
cavalier, still exalted by the infinitesimal fraction of a Royal Bride’s smile, and
wearing his uniform trousers, met a young demure maid on Parker’s Piece. “One day”,
he writes, “I shall ask my wife whether it was the red stripe on my nether garment
or the fireworks that brought favour in her eyes”.

c.02

1927

There is a waiting list at Addenbrooke's Hospital of 23 men, 56 woman and 7

children and it is felt that a new ward on top of Victoria would ease things. It is
now necessary to close a ward for cleaning and that means keeping out patients. The
hospital is working practically all the time and considerable inconvenience is
caused in many ways. The doctors have to have all their meals in the Board Room and
when this is being used for holding an inquest they have to wait

1902

Sir – if Cambridge and Chesterton are excluded from the County Council it will
become a superfluous organisation whose few remaining functions could well be
carried out by the Rural Councils. The loss of revenue would impose upon the rural
districts a burden which would be simply crushing. What would Cambridge gain –
nothing unless it is made a County Borough. But with the population of Chesterton,
Cherry Hinton and Newnham Croft added Cambridge would still be short of the 50,000
requisite to form a County Borough – John Bester
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 15th July

1977

Young Thomas was a school dunce, an exam failure, a no-hoper. At best he was seen
as unfortunate and underprivileged – at worst he was a stupid and lazy idiot. But
this year, while many of his ambitious school contemporaries are kicking their
heels in the dole queue, Thomas is enjoying his first job after being groomed for
employment by the Work Experience Unit at Waterbeach. He got free travel & free
overalls while learning to do simple tasks well, straight-forward repetitive jobs
requiring concentration and co-ordination. Now he is one of the unit’s 23 pupils to
leave and find full-time work since Christmas, only seven are left out of work,
compared to one-third of Cambridgeshire’s school leavers who are doing nothing
because of the national malaise of chronic unemployment.

1952

Fruit growers asked Mr David Renton, M.P. for Huntingdonshire for help in ensuring
satisfactory disposal of a coming glut in plums. Prices were declining and it was
strange the Government was importing foreign fruit when they had so much of their
own. Some shops are selling foreign plums at 2s. a pound while they cannot get a
penny a pound for their own.

1927

The Long Vacation promises to be as full as ever of conferences, congresses, summer

schools and the like. It is sometimes said these conferences cause a good deal of
distraction to residents in Cambridge but they bring trade to the town and give an
immense amount of pleasure, and perhaps, edification, to those who confer in the
pleasant surroundings of Cambridge.

c.27.9

1902

The day long looked forward to by the youngsters of Haverhill has at last come and
gone, and the Sunday School treats are over for another year. It is an afternoon
and evening of unalloyed pleasure. It was a sight well worth watching to see the
1,500 children all attired in summer dresses, marching through the streets to the
strain of inspiring music. They were headed by the Haverhill Old Brass Band and
behind them the members of the Church Lads’ Brigade marched with their rifles at
the slope. Wright’s roundabouts, shooting galleries etc were in attendance and at
dusk there were fireworks.

Tuesday 16th July

1977

A group of Cambridge residents have started a legal battle to stop buses using the
narrow, congested Parker Street to reach the city’s Drummer Street bus station.
They are trying to force four major bus companies to use an alternative route via
Emmanuel Street and Regent Street. The leader of the objectors said: “Parker Street
is fit only for local traffic, being narrow and with houses on each side. At the
moment the pollution is disgusting. You cannot open a window and the noise is above
acceptable limits”. The Eastern Counties traffic manager said: “Buses represent
only a tiny proportion of the heavy traffic using the street, so why we are being
picked on I don’t know”

1952

When the British Red Cross Society decided to make “Edwinstowe” at Chaucer Road,
Cambridge a home for old people, there were questions in the minds of the
organisers. Although residents would be well looked after and have all the material
comforts, would the old people want to come? It is now an established and happy
home and the public flock each year to the annual fete, not only to help the funds
of the home but to renew acquaintance with the residents who seem to be having an
“at home” in their own beautiful gardens. Pupils of the Betty Ripley-Carter School
of Dancing made a charming contribution to the enjoyment with a dancing display.

1927

Addenbrooke's Hospital propose to build a children’s ward with 22 beds and it was
thought the children would enjoy being nearer the street and that passers-by would
enjoy seeing the children. The X-ray department is at present very cramped; they
had already decided to obtain fresh X-ray apparatus and the place wanted extending.
Seven bedrooms for the medical and surgical staff could be built above it. The
present staff numbered four but before long they would need six. It was a
difficulty as to how the staff was to get into the main building but a covered way
could be made.

1902

Cambridge Paving Committee had approached the vicar and churchwardens of St Giles’
church to ascertain whether it would be possible to acquire a portion of the
churchyard for the widening of Castle Street. They would agree provided that the
work of excavating and collecting human remains be screened by a hoarding & the
bodies reverently re-interred. Chesterton Road corner was a most dangerous one and
when the improvement was carried out one corner out of the four would be cut back.

c.44.6 # c.83

Wednesday 17th July

1977

Elizabeth Way resident is noisy and polluted choked artery which miraculously eased
Cambridge traffic problems in 1971 but it now itself in urgent need of relief.
Residents used to live in tree-lined Cam Road, a quiet residential street on a par
with De Freville Avenue in houses which had front gardens. Now they have lead
pollution and noise levels three-and-a-half times above “acceptable” limits. People
live in back rooms as, despite double-glazing, front rooms are still noticeably
noisy. “It is difficult to cross the road, nobody can come and see you and window
cleaners refuse to come here – they say it gets too dirty”, said Mrs Winifred
French. Relief could come next year with the opening of the Northern Bypass –at
least everyone living on Elizabeth Way hopes so.

c.49.62
1952

Babraham Common has for centuries been an area where the countryman had been able
to roam at will, with only the scuttling rabbits to keep him company. Stepping over
ancient stiles directed the wayfarer along ancient foot-ways. But today the rambler
searches in vain for these ancient rights-of-way which, for the most part, have
been ploughed up. The footbridge over the stream was removed during the war and no
effort has been made to replace it. It is hoped that the Parish Council who will
shortly consider and delineate their paths are fully conscious of their
responsibility.

1927

Fifteen hundred representatives of Young Cambridge gave a display of drills, games

& folk dancing on the Town Football Club ground and provided an audience of 3,000
with a most delightful entertainment. The event was organised by the Cambridge
Elementary Schools’ Sports Association. Their annual sports meeting is always a
great success and this display is another feather in their cap.

1902

You can wash with half the work, and wash better if you use Fels-Naptha soap. The
grocer who sells it to you returns your money if you don’t like it. You mean that I
can use your soap – use it up – and then if I think it wasn’t good my grocer would
give me back my money? Yes. Do you mean to say I can buy two bars, use one and get
my money for both bars back? Of course. Aren’t you afraid I’ll tell him a fib? Not
a bit – you won’t want your money back – Advert

Thursday 18th July

1977

Public schoolboy Clive Stafford Smith, of Clarendon Road, Cambridge, got fed up
with common-or-garden sponsored walks, so he suggested a pram race to Paris. He
wrote round to a few firms and suddenly the mischievous baby of an idea had come of
age, with promises of £3,000 and more to come. Today he and 14 friends from Radley
College set off on a 250-mile trip and expect to take nine days. The first to reach
the Eiffel Tower will win a magnum of champagne.

1952

First arrival in the queue at Heyworth’s, Sidney Street, Cambridge, sale was a man.
He arrived at 3.45 a.m. to buy his wife a red whipcord coat reduced from £10.10s.
to 29s.11d. He was joined at 4 a.m. by a commercial traveller who got up at this
early hour to buy his wife a grey gabardine suit marked down from £21.10s. to
59s.11d. One or two bargain hunters had walked three or four miles to join the
queue and by 9 a.m. tickets had been given out to 370 waiting to secure the many
half-price bargains. Everybody was happy, and there were no sale fights.

1927

The history of the Ouse Drainage Board since it was formed in 1920 could not be
said to have been a success. There was a revolt on the part of the uplanders who
declined to pay the drainage rate and it was impossible to recover the funds
necessary. The Board had an overdraft from the bank of £65,000.. Twelve county
councils and four boroughs opposed the plans. A gathering of the “warring hoards”
at Cambridge was unanimous on one thing, and that was that the Government should
step in. It was obvious that some measures must be taken

c.29

1902

Now his Majesty is on the high road to recovery many places are holding the
festivities arranged in celebration of the Coronation. Out of sympathy for King
Edward these were postponed and now while the bright summer days and long mild
evenings are at their best the committees are taking the wise course of holding the
jubilations rather than wait until a later stage in the year when there is a
greater chance of unfavourable weather. Unfortunately St John’s ward, Cherry Hinton
picked upon early closing day and any shop employee will say that this is
practically synonymous with rain. Nevertheless the festivities must be written of
as a success.

c.02

Friday 19th July

1977

Some of the plans for the development of Cambridge, which upset people living in
the necklace villages, are being scrapped. Cambridgeshire planners are rethinking
the city development plans because they claim information on population figures and
job opportunities was wrong. Population growth in the area over the next 20 years
is likely to be only 13,000 instead of the original estimate of 17,000. Intense
opposition mounted by villagers against the rapid build-up of houses and industry
near their home has had its effect. The Fen Ditton, Waterbeach and Cottenham
expansion is almost certain to be scrapped and in its place more housing in the
city itself and in growing villages like Hardwick will be suggested.

1952

For the first time in its 25 years existence the Cambs and East Midlands Union of
Strict Baptist Churches received an official visit from the Mayor of Cambridge. The
occasion was the silver jubilee celebration of the founding of the union and was
attended by Pastor A.W. Whayman of Whittlesey, one of the original members. For 20
years he was Pastor at Eden Baptist Church, Cambridge where the celebration was
held.

1927

It will interest many people to know that the authorities of King’s College propose
pulling down the railings in front of the college on King’s Parade but are a little
timid about what might follow this step and have consulted the Town Council. The
Watch Committee was asked to enter into an agreement not to take any portion of the
land between the railings and the college buildings for a parking place. They have
reassured the college that they have no power to establish parking places on
private property.

1902

Professor T. McKenny Hughes was summoned for riding a bicycle on the footpath at
Cherry Hinton. P.C. Sanford said when he stopped him the defendant then began to
complain and said the police would be doing better if they were moving the horses
and carts on the road as they were a great nuisance. There was no traffic about at
the time. The Chairman said the defendant was hardly setting a good example and
would be fined 3s 6d and 6s 6d costs.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 22nd July

1977

The two leading private gardens in the CEN gardens competition were in the easy
working are of Trumpington. The winner, Stuart Brown and his wife Shirley, had
moved into the usual near dereliction about three years ago. Runner-up was Mr V.
Pike who has spent a lifetime in gardening. Other class winners were W. Brunt of
Rayson Way, E.W. Gentle of Thoday Street, F.J. Elbourn, Norwich Street and K.C.
Newman, Fallowfield.

1952

I was very sorry to learn of the death of Mr A.E. Reeve of Grantchester Street,
Cambridge whose articles brought to light many fascinating historical facts about
Cambridge through the ages. His interest in old Cambridge began with the burning
down of Grantchester Mill well over 20 years ago which roused the interest of the
London newspapers who were guilty of some inaccuracies which ‘A.E.R.’ felt bound to
point out. He acquired a mass of literature and became probably the most
knowledgeable man on Cambridge and its past. Eminent members of the University
often came to him for information. His elder son, Mr Frank Reeve, is continuing
with his researches.

1927

Swavesey railway station was the scene of an accident. A horse and empty cart
belonging to Mr Jabez Day, farmer and fruitgrower, was standing near the up-
platform when the horse backed the cart into a large pile of baskets of fruit,
upsetting the contents, and then fell on the line, dragging the cart with it. A
train was rapidly approaching the station & the leading coach struck the horse and
cart. The coach was derailed, the cart reduced to fragments of splintered wood and
the horse so badly injured that it died in a short time. A breakdown gang from
Cambridge soon cleared the down line on which both up and down trains had to
travel, piloted by Mr H. Whitehead, the Swavesey stationmaster.

1902

The people of Sawston did their best for Addenbrooke's Hospital and exceeded the
contributions given on the previous Friendly Societies’ parade by several
shillings. Members of the “Florence Nightingale” and “Star of Friendship” courts,
headed by the Sawston Brass Band, marched to the Congregational Church which was
completely filled for the service.

Tuesday 23rd July

1977

Parents and children said goodbye to Mrs Betty Barrett and Mrs Norah Hudson who
have run Cambridge’s oldest nursery school, the Cranmer Nursery School in Newnham
Lane for many years. Now the Old Oast House which has been rented each weekday
morning is being sold by its owners. Their long experience with pre-school children
will not be wasted as they plan to give advice and help to someone starting up a
new nursery school in another part of Cambridge. They were presented with silver
engraved forks in appreciation of their work.

1952

The nursing staff position on the female side at Fulbourn Hospital remains serious.
It has the valuable services of 41 part-time nurses but owing to their domestic
commitments it is often difficult to get enough at peak periods such as weekends
when the burden of nursing is borne by the depleted full-time nursing staff who
number 26 instead of 80. A total of 1,426 patients were treated during the year and
there were 925 in the Hospital on December 31st 1951

1927

A showman was convicted for obstructing free passage of High Street, Lode. A farmer
said he was driving his car and had to pull up as a roundabout was half-way across
the road and a crowd of people and little children near by. A fair had a definite
legal origin but a feast was an individual enterprise by proprietors of the
amusements and there was no possible right to obstruct the highway. But at
Bottisham the feast was held opposite the church and a feast and a fair were really
one and the same. It was an occasion where the inhabitants who had left the village
came back for a short time. He had visited for ten years and had a statement signed
by the vicar and most of the inhabitants who were in favour of the feast being held
on the same spot.

1902

The problem of the general servant is with us always. The tyranny of the domestic,
her varying moods and fluctuating caprices seemingly know no end. Her demands have
gradually become more peremptory and extensive for some years past and housekeepers
have become painfully familiar with Sundays off, evenings out, cycles in the
kitchen and swains in constant evidence. The Cambridge autocrats of the kitchen are
now going a step further; the very latest request is a week’s holiday at the
Coronation. It is not stated whether the majority of them propose attending the
Abbey

c.27

Wednesday 24th July

1977

One of the most striking features in the property market has been the resurgence of
interest in the small terraced city house in the Romsey Town area. Fifteen years
ago one could have bought a two up, two down, for about £1,350. By 1967 the price
was £2,200 rising to £5,500 by 1972 and is now £8,500 – and increase of 530 per
cent. In De Freville Avenue a semi which cost £3,000 in 1962 is now £15,000, and in
Queen Ediths Way the figures are £3,350 and £14,500. A post-war semi in Cherry
Hinton has risen from £10,000 to £15,000 in the five years from 1972.

c.06
1952

The whole of the structure of the 112-year-old courts of assize at the old Shire
Hall, Castle Hill, is unsafe and liable to collapse at any time. Dry rot has been
attacking the floors and has now spread up the walls and plaster and into the roof.
The damage is said to be irreparable and it is virtually certain that the County
Council will have to write off the building as a total loss. The Court House, built
of brick and stone in the Italian style has a portico supported on columns and
comprises two courts and a magistrates’ room from which three prisoners recently
escaped by removing an iron grill over a window.

c.35.2 # c.34.6

1927

Councillors said that not allowing village fairs to be held on the grass at the
side of main roads was an “autocratic measure” designed to safeguard “wretched
motorists” and restrict the liberties of the subject. At Harston a large crowd of
caravans gathered at the side of the road at a very dangerous curve where there was
a lot of traffic. The fair was on the very verge of the road and it was impossible
for any vehicle, especially at high speed, to pass without danger to those
attending the fair. There were three constables on duty but even so the danger to
children was very great .The proprietors of roundabouts had the option of a field
but would not go there as long as they were able to go on to the roadside.

1902

Haverhill council called the attention of the police officers to the misconduct of
roughs in damaging seats and shelters on the Recreation Ground after the ground was
supposed to be closed. The obvious thing was for the council to fence it and
enclose it, so they could close the ground entirely. Plates with enamelled letters
should be obtained for distinctly marking each gymnasium & the custodian should
report names of males using the female gymnasium and vice versa

Thursday 25th July

1977

Proposals to build a £40,000 open-air theatre on Jesus Green, Cambridge, from the
proceeds of public lotteries, were thrown out by the city council. The first
lottery is to start next month. The estimated monthly profit is £5,000 and the
Lottery Committee had suggested that the proceeds of the first nine should be spent
on a theatre. It would, they thought, have given the scheme an impetus – and the
plan had certainly created a lot of publicity, generating hostility towards the
project. They were asked to think again and come back with some good ideas.

1952

The National Farmers Union Owen Webb committee is anxious to purchase City council
premises at Gresham Road, Cambridge, to form a headquarters for all the
agricultural interests in the county. Cambridge was the centre of the agricultural
belt and the headquarters of the farming fraternity should be in a place other than
their present miserable and dingy offices in Corn Exchange Street. It would not
affect the Council’s housing programme one jot. If the building were converted into
flats the rent would be such that no one waiting for a Council house could afford
it.

c.22

1927

There was a good deal of grousing before the inhabitants of Chesterton had a
footbridge over the Cam at Dant’s Ferry. Now they have got one they have found
something else to grouse about. At five minutes to eight every morning the
instrument workers at Pye’s are hurrying to work from the other side of the river.
They curse and groan, trip and stagger under the burden of carrying their bicycles
up and down a steep double flight of steps. Sooner or later some panting person
carrying a bicycle will fall backwards or pitch into the river. The bridge was not
made for cyclists who should get up earlier and ride up Victoria Avenue.

1902

Chatteris, right in the heart of the breeders’ country was the venue for the 1902
show of the Cambridgeshire Agricultural Society. It welcomed the society with open
arms decorating its few streets as gaily as flags and bunting would allow. Visitors
leaving the station passed under a triumphal arch of evergreens with the word
‘Welcome’ on the arrival side and ‘Success to Agriculture’ on the reverse. The
number of entries and the attendance of the public were records and by mid-day
2,450 people had passed the turnstiles.

Friday 26th July

1977

The Mayor of Heidelberg officially opened the rooftop garden above Lion Yard,
Cambridge, which has been named after the German town to mark the link between
Cambridge and its twin university town. Oberburgermeister Renhold Zundel said a
scheme similar to Lion Yard was being built in his city and they might have a
garden named after Cambridge soon.

c.49.4 # c.18

1952

One of the first judges to sit in the Shire Hall Courts, built between 1814 and
1844, Mr Justice Parke, complained about the ventilation in the Crown court. Bad
ventilation is one of the factors that cause dry rot and it is possible that it has
taken 107 years to come to the present condition. It could be smelt very plainly
and if a knife was stuck into the wood it would go in up to the hilt in most
places. It was unfortunate that they had decorated the building three years ago at
considerable expense and no one knew about it. Coun. Dr Woodman said: “I hope the
committee will consider the dry rot in the minds of the jury as well as in the
walls of the court. You are packed like peas in a pod and with bad ventilation you
get one thought”.

1927

Cambridge council considered the erection of advertising boards by the Empire

Marketing Committee at Corn Exchange Street, Market Hill, Drummer Street, Butts
Green, Northampton Street and the Cattle Market. But the path in Corn Exchange
Street was only five feet wide and it would be dangerous if people stopped there to
look at it. They would have to put up another sign, “Safety first. Passengers must
not stop to look at this advertisement”. (Laughter).

1902

P.C. Savidge said he was walking along Mill Road, Cambridge and noticed a motor-car
which appeared to have been on fire outside Mr Storey’s shop. A number of boys were
looking at it and a three-year-old boy was on the path near the motor car.
Defendant came out of a shop and deliberately kicked the boy with such force that
he was lifted off the ground. The man said there were parts of the car liable to
injury if meddled with by inexperienced hands. A number of boys were “pulling it
about the whole afternoon”. Time after time he warned them away and had “cuffed”
two or three boys. The youngsters were a perfect pest in Mill Road and he
considered the charge ridiculous. There was no doubt defendant lost his temper and
he was fined £2

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 29th July

1977

The Newmarket millionaire Mr David Robinson has added another £7 million to the £10
million he gave in 1973 for the foundation of a new college in Cambridge. The
additional money will be used to overcome the effects of inflation and establish a
trust fund to attract top-class academics to the college mainly from abroad. The
shy millionaire who started off in his father’s bicycle business in Cambridge
refused to be interviewed or photographed

1952

Newmarket General Hospital – still affectionately known as “White Lodge” - is

regarded as one of the finest in the eastern counties, and yet at the beginning of
the war it was still looked upon as what was popularly termed “a workhouse”. The
war saw tremendous development and before long the old Emergency Hospital came into
being. The post-war years again saw vast improvements and ultimately “White Lodge”
became recognised as a general hospital. At about the same time it was also
accepted as an official Nurses Training Hospital.

1927

A remarkable demonstration of the new “Bibendum Comfort” tyres was given at “The
Backs”, Queen’s Road, Cambridge. The test consisted of driving a car along the road
at about 38 mph and bursting the inner tube of the back tyre by means of a special
device. The car was driven to the same spot at about 30 mph with the tyre half
deflated and then purposely skidded and again with the tyre fully deflated. These
tests were particularly severe, the car skidding right round, leaving skid marks 25
feet long, but the tyre never budged from the rim.

c.26.48

1902

An important property sale was conducted under instructions of executors of the

late Messrs Edmond and Ebeneezer Foster. Amongst the lots were dwelling-houses,
offices and shops in Cambridge and farm houses and cottages. A tailor’s shop in
Green Street sold for £1,500, & a newly-built farmhouse at Gt Eversden sold to Mr
J. Fossey for £550. Livery stables in Gwydir Street Cambridge were withdrawn at
£325, as was a residence in Scroope Terrace at £300
Tuesday 30th July

1977

Parishioners at Oakington have raised nearly £5,000 to repair the church bells. On
Saturday four bells were taken down from the tower by a group of villagers; by
doing a lot of the manual work they have kept the costs down. The bells need a new
frame to replace the present one which is 300 years old. They also need retuning
and a fifth bell is being recast at Loughborough.

1952

County councillors recommended that a halt sign at Quy Corner, called “the blackest
of black spots” was not desirable. In the last five years there had been three
deaths at the corner. When you come out of the Quy turning on to Newmarket Road
where cars do anything up to 80 m.p.h. you think you can see each way. But there is
a dip in the road and a car is soon upon you. A halt sign would result in more
hurt, because having stopped people would not have sufficient time to get round the
bend before main road traffic was upon them. It would always be a black spot while
people came out of the turning without looking where they were going.

1927
A young man, fashionably attired in a brand new plus-four suit paused at the
cigarette machine outside the New Theatre, Cambridge, and inserting a sixpence drew
forth a packet of cigarettes. Instead of shutting the drawer in the orthodox manner
he turned his back on the machine and applied pressure by a retrograde movement.
“Snap” went the drawer, taking with it about six inches of the seat of the young
man’s voluminous “bags”. Finding himself held captive he appealed for sixpences to
release the drawer but none would do the trick. “Debagging” was out of the question
and the prisoner would not hear of being “cut away”. After twenty minutes one
bright person tried the very obvious idea of pulling the handle of the drawer and
he was released amid loud cheers.

1902

The people of Old Cherryhinton participated in festivities in celebration of the

Coronation. They took the form of sports and a tea, besides various minor
amusements, while music entered largely into the scheme of pleasure. 900 people
availed themselves of the opportunity to take tea which took place in a large
erection constructed of canvas under trees in a meadow. Beside this temporary tea-
room stood a traction engine with steam up but it was not attached to any bread-
cutting arrangement such as might have been necessary to cope with the
extraordinary demand. It was used to boil water for the tea.

c.02
Wednesday 31st July

1977

The issue of redevelopment in the Kite area of Cambridge may have dragged on for
more years than many care to remember but the controversy it has provoked is far
from disappearing. More than 300 people turned up to the Guildhall. Opinions on the
scheme varied. A pork butcher, Mr Jack Curtis, who had traded in Burleigh Street
since 1945 said he had never seen a scheme that hurt so few people. There were
interruptions, including an appropriately timed blast or two from a bugle smuggled
in by Mr Arthur Sutton whose house is due for demolition

1952

In the big tree-girt grass playing field of Chesterton Preparatory School the young
folk entertained their elders to tea and dancing, giving a whole profusion of
English Maypole Dances. I asked Miss Dorothy Hodder, the Headmistress, how they
were able to train youngsters to such a pitch of excellence that they never pause
or falter, and all without commands or words of instruction. She said the children
(and there were no less than 64 of them) very largely teach themselves. It made a
charming picture to see the tiny tots skipping so gaily round the Maypole in
orderly rhythm with their brightly coloured ribands. They were obviously enjoying
every second of it.

1927

Ely housing committee found a case where 17 people were using one W.C. and that
sort of thing could be dealt with. More difficult were houses that were absolutely
dangerous and unfit for the habitation of pigs. It would be a good thing if they
made an example of a couple of cases and pulled down the houses to show that the
Council had the matter in hand. Water supplies and the cheap manufacture of soap
had done a great deal to encourage people in the ways of cleanliness and they now
wanted better housing conditions for people to live in.

1902

A Cambridge man from Thoday Street, was charged with stealing two brooms and a pair
of boots, the property of the Corporation. He worked as council yardman. A woman in
Staffordshire Street said she had been living with the prisoner as his wife for the
last four years. She saw him bring home brooms with “C.C.” burnt in the top, which
he filed off. He’d sold a pair of boots for 6s having told the buyer that the
Corporation had provided him with them to go down the manholes and when he’d
finished the surveyor said he might have them. He was sentenced to two month’s
imprisonment with hard labour.

Thursday 1st August

1977

The Railway Tavern, Shippea Hill, is threatened with closure by Watney Mann and the
regulars are upset. The older men got to thinking back about the pub’s previous
owners. It was Steward and Patterson’s, then Ely Ales, then East Anglian Breweries,
then Watney’s, then it was Truemans and then Watney’s again. Three years ago it was
one of the busiest pubs around. A lot of men worked in the station’s goods yards
but they were closed down and the custom drifted away. Now customers include a few
farm workers and the passing trade: sales reps and occasional tourists. Sometimes
servicemen from Lakenheath or Mildenhall pop in.

1952

Part of the land allocated for recreational purposes at Oakington is now to be used
for houses. And it will be a “great improvement”, a District Councillor said. “At
present if you stand on our cemetery and recreation ground you get a fine view of
the back gardens of Council houses with their washing and hen houses and so forth.
The proposal is to build a row of Council houses on the other side of Queen’s Way
so that the recreation ground will face the front of these new cottages instead of
looking into the back-doors. It will also relieve the Parish Council of a bit of
land which had been assigned for recreation purposes but which had been found to be
rather a handful”. The Parish Councillors were very favourably impressed with the
proposal.

1927

Messrs Hunt Bros, millwrights, Soham, sued Thomas Peake, corn merchant of
Littleport, for work done. Defendant owned a mill at Littleport and had there two
sets of stones. He needed a new bottom stone and a workman went to the mill and
took the dimensions. But some mistake was made and the mew stone was found to be
three or four inches too thick. That was a fatal defect. Their case was dismissed.

1902

Cottenham, it would appear, has no desire to spend money upon such a necessary of
life as water but is prepared to sanction money for the purpose of providing an
illuminated clock tower to commemorate the Coronation of His Majesty the King. It
is pleasant to see so much loyalty and patriotism, but it would be even pleasanter
to see a much greater regard for the elementary principles of sanitation. The
village has for the past 18 years wrangled over the water supply question until a
second serious outbreak of typhoid. The matter is, of course, one for Cottenham
people but we could have hoped they would regard pure water as of even greater
importance than illuminated clocks

Friday 2nd August

1977

There are those who say that swimming in the Cam is only marginally less dangerous
than going for a dip in an oceanful of sharks. There are others who swim in the
river day in, day out and are the very model of health. The two sides met at the
annual visit of the City councillors to the slowly decaying bathing huts on Sheep’s
Green. The Mayor said: “We’re told the Cam is polluted. All we can say is: Swim,
drink it and kill yourselves. Only don’t say you weren’t warned”

c.46.5

1952

Sir – I write to protest against the proposed new public conveniences on the corner
of Chapel Street & High Street, Chesterton. There are plenty of old men who like to
congregate on the iron seat around the ash tree, for even with the existing police
box it is undeniably a pleasant corner such as it will never be with a lavatory
right in the middle. But there are numerous condemned cottages in the High Street
and extensive rubbish dumps behind crumbling walls, not only unsightly but filthy,
which would be improved for having public lavatories built on them – Mrs M. Sugden

c.21.1

1927

Cambridge Motor Club social service campaign is being continued this year and a
number of inmates of the Cambridge Poor Law Institution were taken for a half-day
circular trip to Royston and then on to Duxford where the party visited the Flying
School and hangars. Special arrangements had been made for spectacular flying and
three fighting scout planes took part in some remarkable stunts
1902

The Ipswich Journal has ceased to exist. No newspaper can be produced for a penny
per copy without a considerable advertisement revenue and while sales have
increased the income from advertisements has as steadily diminished. Few things
more vividly illustrate the change over the past 50 years. A paper once a week can
no longer satisfy the needs of the busy people in our chief centres of population &
unless news is “served hot” it fails to interest them. So the daily paper has
become indispensable. However much we may regret the disappearance of weekly
journals the inexorably law of change must be accepted. Businessmen are realising
that in the matter of advertising there is a great gulf between the weekly and
daily newspaper.

c.04

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 5th August

1977

Haverhill publicans are upset at what they see as “pot hunting” by a local darts
team. The captain of the Black Horse darts team has asked three players from
Sudbury to play for them in the forthcoming Haverhill District Winter League.
Although importing good players from outside is not against the rules local
landlords are describing the move as “sneaky” and “unethical”. The players say they
are only coming from Sudbury to Haverhill for a change of scenery

1952

Cambridgeshire County Council wants a police house built on South Cambs R.D.C.’s
housing site at Steeple Morden. First they wanted the house on the east side but
now they have chosen another site which is “worse than ever” and completely spoils
the layout; it is the only reasonable place to have a road. The current plans
include no provision for the house but, said Coun Murfitt, “for some unreasonably
obstinate reason they are not prepared to look at anything at all except our site”.

1927

A well-known figure in Cambridge and Histon, John Guilliam Davies, has died. Mr
Davies, who was a cripple paralysed in the lower limbs from a very early age,
gained considerable notoriety for long distance journeys in his two-speed, hand-
propelled invalid chair. Last December he travelled to Leicester and back, a
distance of 150 miles and previously he had journeyed to London.

c.21.1

1902

All Saints church Newmarket vestry meeting considered tenders for lighting the
church from the Electric Light and Gas Companies. Speakers pointed out the ease
with which the electric light could be switched on and off and that it was the more
healthy of the two. But arrangements for turning down incandescent gas were easily
made, it was much cheaper and it gave out heat, thus saving somewhat on the coke
for heating. The Gas Company manager guaranteed to reduce the present gas bill by
at least a half as the incandescent system was more economical and cleaner that the
flat burners. The committee voted four-four and it was decided to leave the
decision to the Churchwardens, one of whom was strongly in favour of electric, the
other gas.

Tuesday 6th August

1977

Cambridge’s £3 million concert and conference hall that never was began with a £2
million promise to pay for the conversion of the Corn Exchange. But that promise,
made in 1974 was short-lived. Mr David Robinson decided that the Corn Exchange was
ugly and should be pulled down. Instead he favoured a purpose-built concert and
conference hall on the Downing Street end of the Lion Yard complex. The man at the
centre of those protracted negotiations was Coun Jack Warren who told him it was a
listed building and could not be pulled down but he pooh-poohed this. In October
1976 Mr Robinson wrote to say it would be impossible for him to provide the money,
and then gave another £7 to Robinson College.

c.69

1952

Jubilee celebrations were held at Rampton Free Church Mission Hall. Mr William
Coles said he could clearly remember the laying of the foundation stone and the
opening ceremony. Rampton held an important place in village life around it. It was
squeezed between two villages, Willingham and Cottenham, but like a jam tart, the
best is always in the centre.

1927
Fire broke out in the garage of Mr George Rolfe, motor mechanic in Market Street,
Newmarket. The danger to Primrose House Stables was so imminent that the butler got
into telephonic communication with Cambridge Fire Brigade but by the time they
arrived, 50 minutes later, Newmarket Brigade had got the flames well under control.
The garage was completely burnt out and four motor cars destroyed. So great was the
heat that some of the glass windscreens melted and ran like tallow. It is suggested
that the fag-end of a cigarette may have been smouldering among the cushions of a
car until the fire reached the petrol

1902

At Rampton the Free Church Mission Hall, which has recently been completed, was
opened for public worship. It is an unpretentious brick built building but was an
ornament to the village and could strengthen the hands of local Nonconformists. Dr
Harris said popular education was being Romanised and if the Education Bill passed
in its present form in 20 years more of this regime would effectively Romanise the
people of England

Wednesday 7th August

1977

Cambridge pop groups are to be given a chance to make their names in the music
industry. Lee Wood, the owner of “Remember Those Oldies” record shop in King Street
has just launched his own record label for lively local bands. Having acquired the
16-track recording facilities at Spaceward Studios he is looking for local groups
to promote on his new label entitled “RAW” and has plans to produce an LP of all
the Cambridge groups over the last ten years. One of the first bands to be recorded
are punk-rockers The Users, whose single “Sick of You” has already sold 10,000
copies.

c.69

1952

Cambridge Centaur Motor Cycle Club’s Bank Holiday Scramble at Spring Close, Burwell
attracted a crowd of over 5,000 who were treated to a thrilling afternoon’s racing
on what must be the finest scramble course for many miles. Situated on the site of
an old Norman castle and incorporating several crossings of the now dry moats, the
course included a number of very steep ascents from which most of the riders made
spectacular leaps. Spectators were able to see most of the racing from the high
ground in the centre of the track upon which the castle had stood. Two very popular
riders, E.J. Wiffen of the Grasshopper Club and the local Centaur ace, H.D. Halsey,
emerged as the stars of the meeting.

1927

Fulbourn Hospital Visitors agreed that the farm was no longer large enough and
more land was required for production of milk. At present 27 acres of land was
hired at a fairly high rental. The price of the Cauldle Corner Farm was excessive
but there were very excellent buildings and it practically adjoined hospital
property. If they enlarged it was only fair to the inmates that they should have
proper work to do and they should have a farm in which they could take interest.

1902

A multitude of people, many of whom travelled all the way from London, passed the
Bank Holiday at Dunmow where the annual connubial competition took place for the
flitch of bacon. Two couples claimed the trophy. The questioning and cross-
questioning was conducted with the mock-judicial gravity for which the trials have
become famous and the answers were often greeted with bursts of laughter. The
husbands and wives came through the ordeal so triumphantly that the jury
unanimously awarded each couple a flitch and complimented them on the great fact
that in their cases marriage was not a failure.

Thursday 8th August

1977

A race against time to fly Concorde to the Duxford Aviation Museum is likely to
provide a tense photo-finish. Contestants are the British Aircraft Corporation with
its supersonic 01 prototype and Bovis with its giant bulldozers. The bulldozers are
now poised to start digging up the runway to form part of the Western By-Pass and
if they do it will end, once and for all, the on-off guessing game surrounding
Concorde’s “imminent” arrival. BAC’s chief test pilot, Brian Trubshaw has made it
clear he will need every available foot of runway to bring the aircraft in.

1952

Cambridge Bonniest Baby Exhibition was held in the Guildhall and attracted a fairly
substantial entry of 99. The judges were not judging in the usual way, weighing the
children, examining limbs etc but were looking for the bonniest baby of the
respective classes. In fact it was rather a babies’ beauty competition.
Prizewinners were: six months and under – Joy Carter, seven-twelve months – Linda
Moxon, 13-18 months – Martin Carter, 19 months to two years – Anna Taylor. Winning
twins were Dorothy Anne and Mary Elizabeth Arbon of Harston.

1927

The death took place of Mr Edwin Samuel Fisher, who was head of Downing College
kitchen for nearly 50 years, having commenced his career at the early age of 13
when he became an apprentice in St John’s College kitchen. While still at school he
had worked under the famous chef M. Bruvet when he presided over the Downing
kitchen. Mr Fisher had a very trying time during the war, at the outset of which
the college suddenly was called upon to house some 90 Territorial nurses, for whom
meals had to be provided in the college hall, and later he had, under great
difficulty owing to rationing, to provide in a similar fashion for officer cadet
battalions.

c.44.5 # c.28

1902

Popular Country Drives. The “Alexandra” and “Coronation” char-a-bancs will leave
Cambridge Market Hill on Wednesday for Shelford, Newton and Whittlesford; return
fare 1s. Thursday special drive to Royston, Friday Haslingfield and Saturday Earith
bridge. Special Sunday drive to Whittlesford Bridge pleasure gardens. H. Buck,
jobmaster, Crown Inn, Jesus Lane, Cambridge – advert

c.26.46
Friday 9th August

1977
Lord Adrian, Chancellor of Cambridge University for seven years and one of the
world’s leading scientists, has died. He was one of the most eminent of the
Cambridge scientists and won the Nobel Prize for medicine in 1932. He was a
Professor of Physiology and preceded Lord Butler as Master of Trinity College. He
had more than a score of honorary degrees from universities all over the world

c.36.9

1952

A Londoner was fined £3 for unlawfully obtaining rationed feeding stuffs at Lt

Thetford. PC Harding was on motor patrol duty at Fowlmere when he stopped a lorry
and noticed what looked like feeding stuff. Defendant said it was quaker oats and
was unrationed but the sack was marked “Blue Cross Balanced Food, No.2 Pig Food”.
The officer concluded it was a rationed product and asked if he had surrendered
coupons for it. The reply was “No”. How he came to be in possession of the sack
they did not know. The man claimed to have bought it from a poultry dealer because
he through he would be charged with stealing it. He had been at work for 16 hours
and wanted to get home.

1927

Mr Lloyd George’s tour in the rain of some of the Cambridgeshire smallholdings was
evidence of his anxiety to gain first-hand knowledge of the problems faced on the
land today. He described as “marvellous” the development of the holding of Mr David
Easy, who started with three-quarters of an acre and now has 200 acres and a herd
of 30 cows. Tea, taken at Mr Street’s farm at Landbeach was “like a family party”
and Mr Lloyd George found considerable interest that some of the articles placed
before him for consumption were home grown or home made. The tour continued to
Cottenham and Willingham.

c.22

1902

After he had finished his sermon the pastor of Newmarket Congregational Chapel read
a letter sent him by the deacons of the chapel which said that as seat rents and
donations were falling off they were unable to keep up his salary of £220. There
had been a lot of unpleasantness and it was felt the pastorate had better be
brought to an end as quickly as possible. He said the Deacons had overstepped the
mark. A meeting was held and proved to be decidedly more “lively” than such
meetings usually are, some of those present walking out of the room while it was in
progress.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 12th August

1977

Cambridge wants its northern by-pass badly, yet it has done little to make the men
who are building it feel welcome. At the by-pass site office a community of men
from Bovis Civil Engineering Ltd living in 80 caravans find that after long hours
when the continual chugging of the expensive machinery finally ceases and the
clouds of choking dust begin to settle, that Cambridge has been found wanting. “It
is the worst town for entertainment I have ever been in. About half of us are
northerners and what we really miss is the working men’s club sort of place”, said
one. Others prefer to live with their wives on the site and find the local school
at Milton the best anywhere. About a dozen children from site families go there.

1952

Cambridge city council won its appeal against the refusal of the County Council to
grant planning permission for the erection of houses on land fronting Queen Edith’s
Way on either side of the approach to Wulfstan Way. The plots were intended for
former owners of land which had been sterilised by the revocation of planning
permission on the Ventress Farm Estate. They could be sold at a reasonable price as
compared with that now commonly asked for building land near Cambridge, where there
was a serious shortage of sites available for private builders. The county had
wanted sufficient land left open to preserve a view of the shopping centre.

c.23

1927

A butcher’s shop belonging to the late Mr Fred Harrison of St Ives, with house,
domestic offices & slaughter house was auctioned. Bidding started at £500 and
quickly rose to £950; the Peterborough Co-operative Society eventually securing it
for £1,000. A freehold old-fashioned thatched cottage at Hemingford Grey, the
property of Mr A.V. Woods, was sold for £330

1902

The venerable University town can have scarcely witness such as scene as animated
gaiety as on Coronation Day. Street after street was bright with flags and blazing
in a brave show of scarlet and white and blue. Visitors poured in by road and rail,
in vehicles and on foot until it seemed as though the population of Cambridgeshire
must have drifted en masse into the town and left the surrounding country empty and
desolate. To and fro though the narrow streets, laughing, talking and singing the
gay crowds eddied and swirled.

c.02

Tuesday 13th August

1977

For more than three years Cambridge has been on the verge of getting a £3 million
civic hall gift from the Newmarket millionaire Mr David Robinson. But secret talks
between City Councillor Jack Warren and the man who has paid £17 million to found
a new college in Cambridge have collapsed with a letter from Mr Robinson saying,
“It is impossible”. Coun Warren made one last telephone call to the man he had come
to know as a friend. Mr Robinson said his wife was ill and he was selling up and
going to live in a bungalow.

1952

The news that the roof and interior of the Shire Hall Courts on Castle Hill,
Cambridge are in danger of collapse has drawn attention to the statues on top of
the building. The figures represent Law – holding a book, Justice – drawn sword
(scales are missing), Mercy and – holding chain – Power

1927

The indiscriminate erection of bungalows along our main roads came in for criticism
at Cambridge Rotary Club. Dr Charles Searle spoke of “these miserable little
bungalows” but John Few said the residents might have been ordered out of a bad
cottage by the Medical Officer of Health and it was often a question of expense.
There were development schemes for certain parts of the outskirts of Cambridge but
no planning scheme for the whole town, it was important that what was done should
be done with care. # c.23

1902

All day the great mass of silk which was presently to make a journey to the skies
was a source of deep interest. Around Parker’s Piece where the balloon was taking
its huge meal of 32,000 feet of coal-gas were rings of spectators. Slowly the gas
inflated the silk, the aeronauts loosened the ropes and the balloon rose from the
grass a graceful pear-like shape. After settling the final details Spencer gave the
word for the two passengers to jump aboard, then with a startling rapidity the
balloon leaped up and was soon several hundred feet above the earth. It first
travelled in the direction of Hills Road but then, caught by a current of wind,
sailed over to the Newmarket side. # c.26.1

Wednesday 14th August

1977

We have become so used to inflation that price rises are readily accepted as being
a necessary evil. But what about the price of chips? In February 1976 the News did
a survey and we have repeated the exercise now the raw material – the potato – is
costing only a fraction of its previous price. None of the shops had passed on a
reduction to customers. But cod is twice the price of 18 months ago and the fryer
is having to subsidise his fish price from chip sales. The best value is at D.G.
Munns in Old Chesterton. At 12p a portion the price is unchanged and for an extra
3p our reporter was given an extra half portion – three ounces of chips.

1952

Although the Ministry of Food is to issue licences to growers for the lifting of
maincrop potatoes a month earlier than usual there might be some reluctance on the
part of the growers to take advantage of the concession. Late heavy rains may
result in an increased yield and farmers may prefer to leave the potato harvest
until the end of September. Labour, much needed for the harvest, is another
problem. Loss of labour, particularly skilled labour, through Forces call-up has
resulted in a reduction of the total acreage devoted to potatoes; even so the total
quantity grown is twice that of pre-war

1927

There was a large attendance at the stone-laying ceremony of the new Parochial Hall
for St John’s Church, Cambridge. The object is to supply a building for Sunday
School work, social and other parochial gatherings. The building would have been of
a different type but for the fact that part of the site has been acquired by the
Corporation for making a roadway from Blinco Grove to Cavendish Avenue. # c.83

1902

Enquiries were being made as to what had become of the balloon and her cargo which
left Parker’s Piece, where it had landed, and whether the two Cambridge voyageurs
had returned safely. No one knew. One wag said that the quartet had been blown
across the English Channel and landed at Dieppe. And there were those gullible
enough to believe it. As a matter of fact the balloon did an hour’s trip and
covered 28 miles, landing in the grounds of Spencer’s Grange at Great Yeldham in
Essex. # c.26.1

Thursday 15th August

1977

The first lottery tickets went on sale in Cambridge today – but still no one has
any idea what the money will be spent on. The City Council’s Lottery Committee has
put off discussing ideas for another two weeks despite being told that it was
illegal to sell tickets where there was no clear object in view. Any ideas should
be given to council officers who will list them under three categories – charitable
organisations, projects of a “social nature” and plans to the benefit of all
residents such as the proposed open-air theatre. The council has still to sort out
a kiosk selling point for the tickets but are aiming to sell 40,000 tickets through
32 newsagents for the draw on September 9th

1952

Members of the Cambridge Christian Spiritualist Church turned up for a propaganda

meeting which also attracted many people who were merely curious. Visitors might
have been shocked at the light-hearted style of the medium, Mr Taylor Ineson. The
tones of recognition in the voices of people who said “Yes” when he introduced them
to former relatives in the spirit plane was a study to the ear. “Ah, madam. Did you
know a gentleman who passed over with a gangrene toe?” “Yes, he was my uncle”.
“Well he says he would have liked to have left you some money – but he had nowt!”

1927

A man was arrested in connection with the burglary at Norman Bradley’s Fitzroy
Street premises where entry had been made by forcing apart the iron bars of a
window. He was traced and identified by fingerprints left on a glass panel inside
the shop. They had been sent to New Scotland Yard for examination. The jewellery,
which amounts to £239 has not yet been recovered.

1902
It would appear from a case of assault that the village of Balsham is not tolerant
of strangers in their midst. A couple of shepherds were quietly walking along the
road and were unfortunate enough to pass near two Balsham men who were engaged in a
wordy war. “Oo’s that, Bill? “Dunno”. “Then ‘eave ‘arf a brick at ‘is ‘ead”. The
men of Balsham appear to have fallen violently upon the strangers for no other
reason than that they were strangers. It might be just as well that peacefully
disposed people should in the course of their wanderings in Cambridgeshire keep the
incident in mind.

Friday 16th August

1977

The Mayor of Cambridge had a go at skateboarding, the latest craze among

youngsters. But try as he would to keep still the board had a will of its own and
he had to hold on to one of a group of teenagers who went to see him about finding
a proper skateboard rink in the city. He told them he had already made a firm
request for the Amenities Committee to consider their 1,637-name petition and asked
if some of the city’s lottery money can be spent on one. The slopes of the Lion
Yard present an ideal combination of smooth surface and different angles to turn in
but shoppers say it is dangerous and large areas of plate glass windows are likely
to be broken # c.38

1952

The public concern about jet fighter crashes is not shared by the men most affected
– the pilots who fly the R.A.F.’s 600 m.p.h. Meteors and Vampires. On a special
visit to the Advanced Flying School, Oakington, I found not the slightest trace of
alarm or despondency. The atmosphere fairly crackles with energy and enthusiasm.
Dozens of flights took place with smooth precision and at frequent intervals the
gleaming silver Meteors howled down the runway and shot up into the sky, many flown
by young National Servicemen who by the time they have finished their course are
not only skilled jet flyers but are beginning to know how to use their aircraft as
weapons. The Chief Instructor, Wing Commander Tomalin, persuaded me to accompany
him on a half-hour trip in a Meteor two-seater.

1927

Cambridge Guardians decided to erect a barbed wire fence four feet in height on
top of the wall adjoining Perowne Street to prevent casuals escaping from the
Institution. The Master said there was supervision when the men were at work but
they escaped when the Labour Master was at breakfast. He was afraid they would get
over the cemetery wall even if this work was done. They got out of prison these
days so they could not hope to keep them in the Institution. Mr Stubbs thought it
was brutal to erect barbed wire. # c.32.9

1902
Mr Deasley told Newmarket Council that he thought some corner lamps should be
lighted at Exning. They were quite as necessary there as at Newmarket. Mr
Compodonico: Why have they not been lit? Mr Verrall: People go to bed at 10 p.m. at
Exning.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 19th August

1977

In 1952 Haverhill was bravely pioneering town expansion. The agreement with the
Greater London Council provided for a population of 30,000 by 1991. Between 1961
and 1971 the population more than doubled and at the end of 1973 three-quarters of
all Haverhill employment came from London companies who had moved to Suffolk. It
has grown rapidly and the haste in which estates were built has been blamed for the
grossly overworked sewage works. The last development to be completed with GLC
assistance was the 360-home Chimswell estate. There are more than 200 empty houses
for which the GLC has nomination rights and a further 100 have been leased to the
USAF to house servicemen.

1952

A large congregation packed the church of St John the Evangelist, Hills Road,
Cambridge for the dedication of the new organ. It contains 1,210 pipes which stand
on the south side of the chancel with the console on the north side. For the sake
of economy a certain amount of second-hand pipe work has been used. But this is no
detriment as much of the timber which was easily obtainable before the war is of
far higher standard than that procurable today when Siberian pine lies securely
locked behind the iron curtain.

c.69

1927

An outstanding feature in the reconstruction of out new premises at 2, Market Hill,

Cambridge, are the windows which are unique for a grocery business and compare in
style with a London west-end store. We welcome an opportunity of showing you a
store fitted and stocked in the most complete and scientific manner and where
prized traditions inherited from our predecessors (Messrs Hallack and Bond) are
upheld and carried forward with modern equipment. Shoppers may actually see their
coffee roasted and ground. International Stores, the greatest grocers in the world.
Advert.

c.27.2

1902

A very serious incident has occurred at Thriplow to the family to Mr Arthur Wood,
baker, as a result of eating tinned white herrings. Mrs Wood, the three children
and the servant became seriously ill and Mr Wood himself, after driving the baker’s
cart for four miles, was seized with similar symptoms. The whole family are in a
critical condition.

Tuesday 20th August

1977

Paul Turpin has big plans for the Cow and Hare at Lode, which has been transformed
from a very ordinary village pub into a glamorous night-spot, where customers can
enjoy a pint of real ale, a reasonably-priced meal or a high class cabaret and
music. It is his first pub and the last thing he wants to do is lose the custom of
the “locals” so he has kept the bar looking like a bar, with draught Burton and Ind
Coope bitter being varied according to demand with real ales.

1952

What may prove to be an important Roman discovery has been unearthed at a building
site in Arbury Road, Cambridge. While excavating a trench for a new sewerage system
Mr C. Taylor came across a coffin hewn out of solid stone. He lifted the lid,
weighing many hundredweight, and there, completely enclosed in a lead lining was a
complete skeleton. Nearby was another, also in good condition. It seems possible
this was the burial place of an important Roman family as the stone must have been
imported and the coffin enclosed in a layer of chalk – there is no chalk in the
immediate area.

c.41

1927

Linton RDC has been made a council under the Rural Workers’ Act. This provides a
grant of money, not for repairing cottages, but for enlarging them and making
buildings which were faulty more perfect. They were empowered to make a grant of
between £50 and £100 either as a donation or a loan. Conditions were set up and if
any were broken the owner was liable to repay the grant with interest.

1902

His dusky Highness Lewanika, King of the Barotseland, with his equerry, arrived at
Newmarket Station on a short visit to Dalham Hall, the residence which the late
Cecil Rhodes purchased for something over £100,000 shortly before his death. Their
advent was almost unnoticed as the secret of the time of their arrival had been so
well kept that even at the railway station it was unknown. The Newmarket Town Band
had been retained to play at Dalham at a garden party but no definite date was
given until late on Wednesday. The king played croquet on the fine lawn in front of
the Hall and returned to the station for the London train.

Wednesday 21st August

1977

Haverhill policemen are finding a night’s duty at their station is not a happy one.
Ghostly bumps and bangs are disturbing their midnight sojourns by the cells. Heavy
doors, soundly locked, have been heard to slam. Even typewriters in empty offices
have started a spirited chatter. The station in Camps Road was built on the site of
a pagan Roman court. In 19th century excavations bodies of slaves were found
bricked into the walls. Now the officers feel their new headquarters in Swann Lane
cannot be completed soon enough.

1952

Over Fen is not to be compulsorily acquired by the Ministry of Agriculture after

all. The Agricultural Land commission had recommended the purchase of 535 acres to
ensure maximum food production but they now need to restrict Government expenditure
and will not proceed. The news is a great victory for the Vicar of Over who has led
the fight against acquisition. On 2,050 acres of Lakenheath Fen, also recommended
for purchase, the Minister say much would revert to its former derelict state if
derequisitioned, yet the financial stringency prevents purchase now.

1927

A meeting for re-starting a Scout troop in Ely was held at the Shack, Nutholt Lane.
The old troop was starting on a new footing, under a new name and most probably in
a new type of uniform. Every boy would have to pay 2d a week, whether he was absent
or present. Mr Morton was in charge and anything to do with the troop would be his
matter. The Scoutmaster was not an officer of his Majesty’s Army; he was not a
schoolmaster or a clergyman. He was the big brother of the troop.

1902

The Cambridge Express has joined us in sounding a note of warning with regard to
the proposed establishment of a municipal telephone system for Cambridge. From a
financial point of view the experiment would be decidedly risky. Moreover no one
can reasonably find fault with the efficiency of the existing telephone service,
although everyone would like to see a reduction in the charges. Even in Tunbridge
Wells where municipalisation was taken up with peculiar enthusiasm, they have done
little than to pay working expenses.

c.27.7

Thursday 22nd August

1977

The Labour Party has produced a controversial plan which could mean more power for
large district councils like Cambridge City Council. It could soon be running its
own schools and social services. This is only the first stage of a plan which
ultimately would see English local government in the hands of a dozen regional and
200 multi-purpose authorities. The existing county councils would disappear
altogether.

1952

The first National Servicemen to be trained as Canberra jet crews are receiving
their final training at 231 Operational Conversion Unit R.A.F. station,
Bassingbourn. In one room twenty young men in flying helmets were busily working
with slide rules and graph paper in small box-like cubicles containing an exact
replica of what they would have in the plane, including the latest radar equipment.
Another block was fitted out for “ejector seat” drill and it should take only 10
seconds to get from the nose of the aircraft back to one’s seat prior to being
ejected. Since the National Service aircrew scheme started in 1949 some 4,000 men
have been accepted for flying duties

1927

Sympathies go out to the President of Magdalene College and all concerned in the
tragic motoring accident near Godmanchester. Cambridge is the poorer by the loss a
lady of high ideals who had devoted much of her time and energies to the
advancement of women. She was an experienced and extremely careful driver who had
taken three-quarters of an hour to cover 14 miles and there cannot be the slightest
suggestion of reckless driving or excessive speed. 30 mph is reckoned a safe speed,
provided there is a clear, straight road but the consequence of a momentary swerve
may be fatal. There is no doubt that nowadays few people stand in greater jeopardy
than those who venture on the road.

1902

At various times I have had occasion to refer to the destruction of fish by the
discharge into the Cam of poisonous matter, either from the Gas Works or the Sewage
Farm. After the heavy rain last week the destruction of fish was very great. At
Baitsbite locks carcasses covered the surface of the river over a large area. The
serious danger is that such poisoned fish may by some thoughtless juveniles be
taken home and eaten. Serious illness has been caused by precisely similar means.

Friday 23rd August

1977

Theoretically worth over £150,000 a year in rent, the 47,000 square foot office
accommodation above the Lion Yard has stood empty since the precinct opened nearly
two years ago. Agents trying to let the offices blame the economic malaise for
their lack of success. The high price of central car parking is also a barrier. The
city council made a former builders’ site available to encourage offers and now one
taker has at last been found. Vinters, the Cambridge solicitors have taken space.
But Bidwells say matters will only improve when companies begin to expand and the
perpetually optimistic estate agents say it is beginning to happen.

c.49.6

1952

A small bus fleet owned by Mr George Challice, dance band leader of Newmarket,
escaped total destruction when one 29-seater bus was completely burnt out in a
blaze. It had been parked in an isolated garage instead of in a bay containing
three other vehicles. The bus was burning furiously when firemen arrived yet
although metal had melted and tyres been virtually burnt off the wheels a petrol
tank containing six gallons of petrol was not touched. A practically new bus parked
nearby was driven to safety.

1927
Four persons from Cambridge who were on one motor cycle were fined at Highgate for
dangerous driving. It was stated that one man rode in front on the petrol tank, a
girl was seated on the tank, another girl was on the saddle and a man rode on the
carrier. PC Squires, from Cambridge, said that neither of the men did any work and
their favourite pastime was to take out girls for pillion rides.
1902

A correspondent from Six Mile Bottom describes a most destructive flash of

lightning witnessed on 7th August. One person saw a burst of smoke mingled with a
shower of leaves rise from the shrubbery; another saw a horizontal flash and a
third was almost dazed by a discharge that seemed to take place at his very feet. A
tremendous crash of thunder accompanied the triple flash and three distinct cases
of damage were discovered. In one place the ground had been ploughed up, ivy being
burnt up and a large flint split. An oak post was cut clean in two and a horse
chestnut truck, all three strikes being in a line with one another.

Looking Back

Monday 26th August

1977
Concorde, proud emblem of British civil aviation swooped low over Cambridge and its
necklace villages to her new museum home at Duxford airfield, ending months of
speculation and delay. Pilot Brian Trubshaw circled before putting the sleek,
streamlined beauty on to the runway. As the wheels touched down a parachute flew
out from the back of the aircraft to slow her down on the comparatively short
6,000-ft runway. In the background was equipment belonging to the construction firm
Bovis, waiting to lop 1,000 feet from the runway to make way for the Cambridge
western by-pass. Now Concorde is here to stay – the runway is too short for her to
take off again.

1952

Jesus Lane Sunday School has been wound up. It was founded in 1827 by a group of
University men distressed by the spiritual desolation of Barnwell who decided to
start a “Gownsman’s Sunday School”. Four of them set out to visit every house in
search of scholars and on the first Sunday the school opened with over 200 children
attending at the Friends Meeting House. Later they erected a large new building in
Paradise Street where 600 children were on the books. The 1914 war dealt the school
a blow from which it never wholly recovered and in 1936 the building was sold to
the Boy Scouts Association.

c.83

1927

An empty furniture van belonging to Mr R.W. Finbow of Hooper Street, Cambridge, was
proceeding to Kentford when it suddenly burst into flames. Mr Fred Saunders of
Histon, who was closely behind, obtained a fire extinguisher but the flames had
secured a great hold and this proved of no avail. Other motorists and an A.A. scout
rendered every possible assistance but their efforts were in vain and the van was
soon reduced to charred ruins.

1902

Sir – Is Cambridge becoming overbuilt? As one looks around it is palpable that many
of the recent erections of new houses is hardly the result of demand, but of
speculation. Its effect must be the deterioration of older properties, and wasted
energy and capital in the newer. The census shows the population to be moving
slowly and the demand for new properties correspondingly small. To see a town
dotted over with properties “to let” has a dispiriting effect to strangers and
residents alike, and more especially to those whose capital must be sunk in them –
Observer

c.23

Tuesday 27th August

1977

Angry scenes ended a demonstration in which the vicar of Eaton Socon led
parishioners into the main road to protest against heavy lorries. Seconds before
the crowd was due to disperse after blocking the Great North Road for 15 minutes,
two drivers decided they had waited long enough and tried to weave their way
through. But residents, including young mothers with babies in prams, children and
old age pensioners rushed to form a human wall round the cars. The demonstration
was led by the Rev John Heffer whose banner proclaimed: “Diversions, not
cremations”

1952

Only one of the 14 chalet holders on the banks of the Cam near grassy Corner, Fen
Ditton, was successful in his appeal against removal. He was Mr A.G. Cooper of No.1
Plot whose chalet has been on the site for 40 years. The County Council wanted to
remove it as being out of keeping with the beauty of this stretch of the river and
no planning permission had been given. For many years before 1928 the fields had
been used by the public to watch the May Races and were regarded as open space. It
was of little agricultural value and subject to flood.

1927

Mr Dick Atkin of Ely UDC was pursuing his duties down at the bottom of a manhole in
St Mary’s Street, with the trapdoor up. “I heard a lot of crashing up above and for
the moment thought the whole place was going to collapse around me. I was in
complete darkness for over 20 minutes and wondered what had happened until someone
pulled the horse’s tail out and gave me a little light to go on with”, he said. It
appears a horse was standing patiently when it was struck by a car; its offside leg
and hind quarters went down the hole and completely stopped the opening up. After
half an hour’s struggle the animal was pulled safely from the hole and daylight
restored to the imprisoned man

1902

The growth of the population in Cambridge is not keeping pace with the building of
houses and in various parts many houses are constantly empty. But the absence of
overcrowding is in the highest degree beneficial, not only to public health, but to
the public morals as well. The housing problem is one of the most difficult of the
day and the proportion of income which has to be paid as rent by artisans in the
neighbourhood of London is so great as to make the problem of obtaining sufficient
food almost insoluble. It is to be hoped that such a state of things will never
exist in Cambridge

c.23

Wednesday 28th August

1977
Although it is a city which expects to attract two million overseas tourists this
year, Cambridge has nowhere within its bounds where a visitor can pitch a tent.
During the summer months the only welcome that Stanley Belcher, warden of the
Camping Club site at Shelford, has been able to offer many visitors is a “site
full” notice. There is an additional problem in turning campers away as planning
regulations limit him to 60 pitches – about a quarter of an acre each. So when the
site is full it certainly does not that way to foreign eyes accustomed to the
crammed conditions of popular continental locations. It is ironic that Cambridge
City Council needs no licence to jam tents in like sardines for the folk festival.

1952

Cambridge Accident Prevention Council gave a preview of their third film “Horse
Sense” which deals with the adventures of a horse called Patch that escapes from
its stable and wanders about the streets of Cambridge. It was filmed in Technicolor
and directed by Mr K.O. King with P.S. Ives in charge of production and the script
was written by the Chief Constable, B.N. Bebbington. The BBC’s John Snagge gave the
commentary.

c.76.9

1927

A man was convicted of stealing two gentlemen’s overcoats from a motor car outside
the Conservative Club, Saffron Walden. Mortimer Medcalf, farmer of Copt Hall Farm,
spoke of leaving his coat in his car which he valued at £3 5s. and Arthur Dix said
he had also lost a pair of gloves and a 2-foot rule which had been in his coat
pocket. PC Turner said he saw the prisoner wearing both coats. He said he was a
travelling mat mender and could not get lodgings. He took the coats because he
wanted one for the winter. He was badly in drink at the time. The prisoner had a
very bad record and was sentenced to three month’s imprisonment on each charge.

1902

A Sawston labourer was summoned that he being the occupier of a cottage overcrowded
so as to be injurious to the health of the inmates did neglect to abate the
nuisance. The building contained two rooms, one of the bedrooms being downstairs,
and also a lean-to kitchen. There were eight persons living in the house, the
defendant and his wife, the daughter and her husband, and their four children whose
ages ranged from six to 12 years. The magistrates ordered that he should quit the
place in fourteen days.

Thursday 29th August

1977

“Come up with some proper plans” the city council told the skate boarders. And so
they did. The Cambridge Sidewalk Surfers took their ideas to a commercial artist
and the result is a scale drawing of the old bandstand on Christ’s Pieces as they
would like to see it. The present slab of grey asphalt would be replaced by a maze
of ramps, tunnels and obstacles with one or two hair-raising features. They
estimate the park could be built for less than £1,500 with club members providing
some of the labour free. They would charge about 10p per session, just high enough
to make a profit but no so high to keep people away.

c.38
1952

Considerable reductions in the price of admission are to be made when the New
Theatre opens next week which represent the absolute minimum that can be charged.
When really outstanding radio artistes, whose salaries are sometimes fabulous, are
booked it may be necessary to revert to the old prices. Most of the alterations
have been structural – dry rot had attacked some of the timbers – but an enormous
amount has been done to ensure complete comfort with sprung seating and a new
microphone installation giving the best sound reproduction obtainable.

c.76

1927

Mr John Goddard has been railway stationmaster at Fordham for 18 years and taken an
active part in village affairs. He is now retiring and the sum of £44 was raised by
his fellow villagers, some of whom were blessed with an abundance of this world’s
goods and some who had no such encumbrances. As stationmaster he had been the
friend of all, helping to forward everybody’s traffic with the greatest despatch
and the least amount of friction.

1902

Mr W. Saunders, the veteran captain of Histon and Landbeach Cricket Club has been
aptly dubbed the local “W.G.” [Grace] – not because of any physical similarity –
his spare even youthful-looking frame cannot compare with the great girth of the
one and only Doctor – but because both have long and honourable records in the
game. He has been actively engaged in cricket for no less a period than 48 years.
His career commenced in 1854. Later he and his three brothers took a prominent part
in forming a club at Impington & he finally settled at Histon about 1884

Friday 30th August

1977

Skateboarders met Cambridge council officials and received a bit of a shock. They
were told that the skateboard park they had designed would cost at least 30 times
what they had estimated. “It’s a quite incredible plan”, said the Chief Recreation
Officer. “It would give Cambridge just about the finest rink in the country – at a
price. It would cost at least £25,000”. He said a restrictive covenant governed
development on Christ’s Pieces, which would create all sorts of legal problems for
the skateboarders. Their president said: “It’s a bit disheartening”

1952

With a fanfare from six scarlet-suited trumpeters Cambridge’s third Trades Fair on
Midsummer Common was opened. Immediately afterwards the Mayor went to the
Interflora stand and sent a basket of roses by air to the Mayor of Cambridge,
Massachusetts. Three local firms, Messrs Biggs of Peas Hill, Messrs J. Rogers of
Newnham and Messrs Ridgeon’s of Sussex Street, pooled their dollar allocations to
provide the roses for America. In the first six hours 12,642 people paid for
admission

c.27

1927
The season 1927 is likely to be long remembered by agriculture generally. And those
recollections will be anything but pleasant. Nor is the weather entirely
responsible. Wheat came up well, but on heavy land we had a bad set in the spring,
the land being sodden with wet, and late frost most nights played havoc, from which
recovery was impossible. Some fields of spring oats are good but are mostly tangled
by adverse weather conditions and difficult to handle. There are some excellent
crops of sugar beet but when growers note the profits made by the beet factories
and compare it with their own year’s accounts one fails to see the justice in the
contract price offered – R.L. Fuller, Wicken

1902

In Lincolnshire some experiments have just been made with a petrol motor specially
designed to assist in harvesting operations. The new motor, attached to a reaper
and binder, cut a field of barley in excellent style. After cutting the crop it
drew the laden wagons from the field, and may also be attached to machinery for
chaff cutting, pulping roots, threshing or grinding corn. It has also been tried
with a double throw plough. On the point of cost it compares most favourably with
horse teams and much less time is lost in handling. It can do the work of which a
horse is capable and the cost of keeping or hiring a steam engine is thus to a
great extent saved

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 2nd September

1977

A campaign has been launched against the threatened closure of the Mill Road public
library, Cambridge. It library is one of six which may close because of lack of
money caused by severe cutbacks in Government grants. The County Librarian, Royston
Brown, said the library needed £15,0000 worth of repairs – and the county council
did not have that sort of money. But the Romsey area has the highest percentage of
old people in the city who use it as a daily reading room because they cannot
afford to buy newspapers and magazines

c.77.4

1952

A crowd of about 4,500 went by car, motor cycle, bicycle or special bus to watch
one of the few remaining amateur sports, the “Scramble” meeting organised by the
Cambridge Centaur Motor Cycle Club at Hill Farm, Arrington. The Lightweight Race
produced some bad luck for “Andy” Lee. After winning his heat he had clutch trouble
in the final. Then he borrowed a clutch from a machine similar to his and won the
“Centaur” Handicap.

1927

Sir – I wish to protest against the almost intolerable nuisance caused by the
beating of college carpets on “The Backs”, which is robbing not a few of us of all
possibility of quiet thought and study. A vast number of visitors can hardly carry
away an agreeable impression of a place where their ears have been so persistently
assailed and affronted. Why cannot the Colleges do what is done by all the great
hotels. The resources of modern science and ingenuity lie equally open to them. Why
then these means of barbarism? – Thomas Thornely.
c.27

1902

An entirely new company is responsible for the programme at the Auckland Road
Circus, Cambridge this week. The judicious mixture of “turns” by music hall artists
and items by circus performers of the old stamp seems to find favour with Cambridge
audiences. Miss Babette Rose, a clever vocalist and dancer merited the applause
awarded her. Ecnarf, a wire walker was vigorously applauded and one of the most
enjoyable items was a clever act on horse back by Miss Daniels. The Sisters Korosko
Bale gave a clever exhibition of juggling, a feature being their performing
pigeons.

c.76

Tuesday 3rd September

1977

Experts have successfully uncovered medieval wall paintings at Barton church. They
have spent weeks cleaning off wax applied in 1929 in a previous attempt to restore
the paintings which probably did more harm than good. It was believed then that wax
helped to protect them but experts have now decided that damp coming through
ancient church walls is sealed into paintings by the wax layer and leads to severe
blistering. The paintings were probably done in vegetable dyes by travelling
artists & were covered up during the Reformation period. The latest efforts have
brought to light new details including an evil-looking devil; the early workers
thought this was a duck’s head

1952

Crowds lining Parker’s Piece saw a free but unofficial rodeo with policemen in the
role of cowboys. Three crossbred steers on their way to the killing pens escaped
from Winton Smith’s slaughterhouse in East Road, Cambridge. Off they went with the
slaughterhouse men in pursuit. On the Piece they charged about for half an hour.
Police formed a barricade but one of the animals charged a sergeant and chased a
motorcycle. When they were finally cornered a lady in a red dressing gown opened
her door and put out a bowl of water for them.

1927

Chesterton folk looked very happy at the opening of the Pretoria Road footbridge
and there was a fairly large crowd on both sides of the river. The bridge has been
a very long time coming. There is an old proverb: “Bridges were made for wise men
to walk over, and fools to ride over”. Cyclists should remember this and the
warning of the penalties awaiting those who do not dismount when crossing the
bridge.

c.44.7

1902

At present owing to the long interval between the running of the trams thousands of
people walk to and from Cambridge station who would gladly ride if they could do so
without waiting longer than it would take to walk. Remarkable developments in
electrical traction have been witnessed recently. The electric cars are speedy,
clean and cheap but whether it would be possible to install in Cambridge a system
of electric tramways depends upon a variety of considerations among which is the
extreme narrowness of the streets and the appearance of wires to convey the
current. The electric tram with its two minute service and low fares has improved
conditions in London and it is to be hoped its advantages will be extended to
Cambridge.

c.26.44

Wednesday 4th September

1977

Girl will continue to be barred from grants to aid further education from a charity
at Steeple Bumpstead despite recent sex equality legislation. Village boys qualify
for money from the wealthy George Gent Trust to help offset the cost of a
university degree and the Charity Commission has ruled that the original “Men only”
intention of the benefactor must be adhered to. The Parish council chairman said:
“There are many local parents who would have been glad of an extra £50 to help send
their daughters on to higher education”. But the vicar said the original intention
should be allowed to stand: “Often when a woman gets a degree it’s a waste of
money. She gets married and all the money that’s been spent on her is wasted”.

1952

“The more houses the City Council give us to build, the more we can put up. We have
been in Cambridge five years and can put up 400 houses as quickly as it takes to
erect 50”, said the foreman of Messrs John Mowlem’s 150-house estate at Fisher’s
Lane, Cherry Hinton. A flag is now flying from the chimney of their 1,000th house
in Cambridge. The fitting of the chimney stack is the traditional moment for
celebration in the form of a bottle of beer all round for the workmen. The Poles
working on this site are familiar with the practice which has existed in Europe for
hundreds of years. A dinner-dance is being planned to celebrate when the house is
handed over to the Council

c.23

1927

The foundation stone of two new cottages were laid at the Cambridge Victoria
Friendly Society’s Institution in Victoria Road, Cambridge when. One is to house
the nurse-matron and the other will be for an extra inmate. They have been made
possibly by the generosity of the late Miss Emily Flack. They will be one-storey
buildings containing a living room, a bedroom and a scullery. The nurse’s cottage
will have a bathroom in addition. It was only right that old people who had worked
all their life and exercised thrift by belonging to a Friendly Society should in
their old age find a haven of rest, said the President, Dr E.H. Parker.

c.36.9

1902

Burglars, evidently no ‘prentice hands at their business, entered the premises of

Messrs Norman Bradley, pawnbrokers, in Fitzroy Street, Cambridge and after rifling
the jewellery department left with goods to the value of several hundred pounds.
The establishment has suffered in this way before. Iron bars have been added to
windows until it might have been assumed that everything was secure against even
the most determined cracksman. So the thieves turned their attention to the weakest
spot - the roof
Thursday 5th September

1977

Burma Star Day at Waterbeach airfield has become one of the region’s major annual
events and it is with a mixture of sadness and relief that the organisers present
their last show. After six years they have decided it is time for a rest. There
will be the usual parade of events with the sensational display of the RAF Red
Arrows, the freefalling RAF parachutists the Falcons and the flypast of the huge
triangular Vulcan as the highlights of the day. Massed bands, motor cycle displays
and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will be on show.

1952

The “from here to there” aspect of the helicopter is a huge advantage and the
hoverplane may well become a common mode of travel in the not so distant future.
Helicopter development is very much in its teething stages but the Fairey and
Percival companies have a machine with a cruising speed of 120 mph and a passenger
capacity of 102. So instead of trains there may be an express service from Hyde
Park to Parker’s Piece!

1927

A “rag” by four Cambridge undergraduates in Bedford has cost them the suspension of
the degrees (the gaining of which they were celebrating) for six months. A
constable in Regent Street, Cambridge saw the defendants at two o’clock in the
morning ‘larking about’ with a lifebuoy and notice board belonging to Bedford
Military Band. They regretted what they had done; this kind of thing might be all
right in Cambridge, where it was understood, but that it would not be tolerated in
Bedford. It was within the power of the college authorities, in the event of them
being convicted of a felony, to prohibit them from taking their degrees at all
which would be a lifetime penalty and debar them from taking any post under the
Government - in the Civil Service, Army or Navy.

1902

Yesterday young Cambridge celebrated the coronation of King Edward VII. Half of
Parker’s Piece was covered with twelve tents and soon the happy throng was taking
tea to the strains of music furnished by the Cambridge Police Band. Over 800
gallons of tea were brewed, roughly 6,400 pints. For 6,000 children the quantity
was abundant. The Mayor distributed commemorative medals which will doubtless
remain treasured possessions for many a year. The centre tent contained a large
number of people who were present at Queen Victoria’s Coronation

c.02

Friday 6th September

1977

Sitting in the enormous blue tent on Jesus Green and watching the incomparable
Sadler’s Wells Royal Ballet I felt that this is what a fully international
university city should be all about. The huge tent provides a sufficiently large
stage and seats to stage large performances and make them pay. Cambridge should
consider investing in something of this sort. It took a lot of courage, hard work
and imagination to bring Sadler’s Wells to Cambridge and they have brought
Cambridge to the crossroads. Either it goes forward from here or it retreats.
c.69

1952

A Newmarket hairdresser told the bankruptcy court how she dismissed her assistant
to cut expenses – and how the assistant opened up in business a few miles away and
took some of her own trade from her. She had acquired the business of “Maison
Frederick” for £800 in 1950 and expected a weekly turnover of about £20. She
employed an assistant at £4 a week, plus commission but realised she could not
afford her. She subsequently employed her sister as an apprentice at £1 a week. As
a result of illness the business was frequently closed and earnings were
insufficient to meet heavy expenses of £10 a week.

1927

What may be regarded as the most important news ever announced to wearers of
glasses in Cambridge has come to hand. Mr H.C. Moscow, late Principal Optologist
and Optometrist to Dr Hamilton’s Institute of Optics, New York, U.S.A., has made
arrangements to visit Cambridge. He is an enthusiastic young man who has made a
remarkable success in demonstrating America’s latest scientific optical methods of
Eyesight Testing and Refraction Correction. There is no charge for admission to his
demonstrations and consultations at the Guildhall and he will freely and generously
give his advice to all those who seek his art. He is in a position to prescribe and
supply Eyeglasses and Spectacles at hitherto unheard-of prices.

1902

The oldest living printer in the British Isles is Thomas A. Hills of Ely who has
reached the patriarchal age of 95. So hale is the venerable craftsman that it is
little more than six years since he finally disposed of his business to Mr Tyndall.
His 80th birthday was celebrated by the composition of a “Conditions of Sale”
unexpectedly received after the staff had closed down for the holiday and which
were wanted in a great hurry. Another proof of his wonderful vitality was the
perfect performance of the duties of town crier in 1902, a post he held for many
years.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 9th September

1977

The last Burma Star Day at Waterbeach went out with a bang – with record profits of
more than £7,000 and a record attendance of over 53,000. It will be the last air
show and display; the organiser and controller, Mr W.H.P. Clarke said “The show
depends on many local volunteers who do this at weekends and in their spare time”.
The prime attraction must have been the RAF’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight but
there was also the sole remaining airworthy RAF Mosquito. They were joined by
aircraft of today including a Buccaneer, Phantom and a pair of Harrier jump jets.

1952

The Cambridge Co-operative Society’s new bakery in Sleaford Street, Cambridge was
opened and more than 100 people were shown round by Mr V. Grimes, the bakery
manager. It is possible to turn out 1,200 loaves an hour. At no point is a
draught, the enemy of good bread, allowed to enter the building, doors being
surrounded by hygienic glass brick screens. It is the fourth bakery; the first was
built in 1872, the next in 1888 and then in 1930 a “model bakery” was built in
Sleaford Street. But the Society grew at such a rapid pace a new building became
necessary with the latest machinery to turn out the bread

c.27

1927

During the holidays a good deal of wanton damage had been done to the wall and
outbuildings of the Romsey Council School. The plots of ground adjoining – a no
man’s land at the present time – enabled young people with very little else to do
to try to climb the wall. On top of that the caretaker had received notice to
vacate his premises and was now in Burrell’s Walk. That was a long way from the
school. The council will inquire of the Bursar of Jesus College as to the cost of
purchasing the site immediately next to the school.

1902

The Mayor of Cambridge, Alderman Kett made a tour of sixteen schools for the
purpose of distributing Coronation medals to the infant scholars. It had been
suggested that they should also be given a tea in the tents on Parker’s Piece but
it was felt that little mites of four could hardly be expected to walk to and from
the Piece and it was more advisable to provide tea for them at the various
schoolrooms. At East Road school tea had to be provided for 250 infants and the
cutting up of the large quantity of bread and cake entailed several hours for work
for the teachers.

c.02

Tuesday 10th September

1977

Heneky’s bar in Cambridge had a prominently displayed luncheon list which included
a “ploughman’s lunch”. It is a small bread roll, a very modest piece of cheese and
some butter for 45p. But at the Bath Hotel in Bene’t Street it arrived with
everything – onions, pickled onions, tomato, lettuce and so on and the price was
only 5p more. At the Still and Sugarloaf two sizes of cheese roll are obtainable at
different prices. Each has a piece of processed cheese already in it.

1952

It has long been the ambition of Heyworths of Sidney Street, Cambridge, to be able
to claim that they catered for their women customers from head to foot. But there
was one thing missing. They did not stock shoes. This has now been rectified and a
brand new women’s shoe department was opened in the basement. Only “Lotus” and
“Delta” shoes will be sold, including shoes for day (fashion and walking) and
evening wear. The innovation is welcomed by customers and trade has been brisk.

1927

Cambridge Guardians said the number of casuals received into the Institution had
been increasing year by year. A position had been reached on crowded nights when
the number had reached as many as 117 men. It was quite obvious that extra
accommodation had to be found and a place large enough to ensure the two night’s
detention – a great deterrent to the work-shy tramp, and to provide suitable work
for the casuals. A farm had been found near the village of Cherry Hinton, in some
ways the ideal place, but the project would be expensive.

1902

Sir – Of all places Cambridge seems to suffer most from the plague of bell-ringing.
It is not time the custom was discouraged? Now every home possesses at least one
timepiece church bell-ringing seems superfluous. What must be the sufferings of any
nervous invalid in or near Jesus Lane, compelled to lie and listen, sometimes for
twenty minutes on end, to the doleful “Ding, dang, dong” which comes from that
direction. Why should people be allowed to murder the calm of a Sabbath evening
with the hideous din of their bellwhacking? – Americus

Wednesday 11th September

1977

A bleak future faces the expanding towns of Haverhill and Mildenhall if agreements
with the greater London Council are terminated. There would be little further
factory building, fewer new schools and an end to major road schemes such as
bypasses. Haverhill was the first town development scheme; the population doubled
in ten years and is now about 16,500. But all planning had been geared to a target
population of 30,000 and a £1½ million [ONE-AND-A-HALF MILLION POUND] sports and
swimming pool complex and other amenities provided for a town of that size.

1952

A fete was held at Westwick Hall in aid of the Oakington Recreation Fund. Captain
Taylor said that big towns and cities were attracting the younger folk away from
the countryside, tempting them to leave the village for a life in the town. “We
ought to provide the pleasures and recreation for our younger folk by providing
playing fields near their homes so they are encouraged to settle down to country
life”, he said

1927

There are 270 afflicted blind and crippled girls in the schools in connection with
Mr John Groom’s Cripplegate and Flower Girls’ Mission. They make the most beautiful
flowers for all decorative and artistic purposes, producing indistinguishable
copies of nature’s product. The Cambridge Guildhall will be occupied by an
exhibition of artificial flowers. The girls will be seen at work and those who
visit will be astonished with all they witness. An opportunity will be offered of
purchasing at prices within the reach of everyone.

1902

Newmarket council considered that owing to the prevalence of motor vehicles the
reason which formerly existed for the Council’s steam roller not being used in the
streets between the hours of 8 a.m. and noon had now been to a great extent
removed. They were losing four hours’ work daily. The bye-law had been made at the
wish of the trainers but horses were not frightened of the steam roller in these
days when motors dash past them every day.

Thursday 12th September

1977
There is something innately rebellious about banger racing. It involves the
smashing of a motor car into as many pieces as possible. At the end of a race the
Concord Car Club’s circuit at Henham looks like a breakers yard. What was once a
Zephyr Zodiac is on its roof, the suspension of another car that defies
identification has collapsed and another is wrapped up in the safety fencing. The
criterion – “as long as it will run it will race” – applies to the cars which cost
the drivers as much as £15 to buy. They can last for one meeting or perhaps three
if you are lucky. Pay your £2 club membership and £1 every time you race and you’re
in.

1952

Ramsey Abbey Gatehouse was officially handed over to the National Trust. Major
Broughton recalled that Ramsey Abbey was his wife’s childhood home and after her
death he had restored the Gatehouse as a memorial to her and presented it to the
Trust. Of the Abbey itself there only remains the 13th century Lady Chapel
incorporated in the Abbey Grammar School. After the dissolution of the monastery in
1539 the buildings were used as a quarry, Gonville and Caius College being built
from the stone.

1927

A poem had been received on the subject of carpet beating on the Backs. “One noon
two hypochondiacs, Were strolling through the Cambridge Backs. Said one: It seems
to me that I hear smacks, And slaps and thumps and bumps and hacks, Distinctly and
nerve racking thwacks, My ear drum’s split, my limbs relax. It seems to me we’d
best make tracks, Till carpet beating’s off the Backs”

1902
An accident took place at Pampisford. A party of ten, including young children,
were on their way to Abington in a waggonette. A halt was made near the station
where the horse nodded its head, causing the bridle to fall off. The driver got
down & the horse bolted, going four miles into Abington where the waggonette was
overturned, the front part was broken, but the horse was unhurt. It is a most
marvellous thing all the passengers were not killed.

Friday 13th September

1977

The owner of the Alley Boutique warned skateboard enthusiasts to keep out of the
Cambridge Lion Yard after his shop’s plate glass window was smashed. Police found a
skateboard amid the broken glass. Ian Burns said: “This is the third shop window to
be damaged since they started using the slopes of the walkways”. The skateboarders
who are aged from 10 to 25 use the shopping precinct as an evening time practice
run. The Mayor said: “Until they can find their own rink they say the Lion Yard is
the only place to go”

1952

Two Meteor jet aircraft collided in mid-air over Over. One of the pilots landed
near the church & the other near the Pike and Eel public house. The landlady
observed: “We often have pilots calling here – but not by parachute”. The
electricity supply was cut when one of the planes struck an electric cable in Mow
Fen, Swavesey. The other fell in a meadow behind Station Road, Over. Firemen put
out magnesium flames which broke out in one of the engines after its impact on
hitting the ground. The two aircraft were on a training flight from R.A.F. Station,
Oakington

1927

A large stone coffin of the 10th century pattern was unearthed at St John’s Farm,
Ely, where once there was an old monastery, part of which is still standing.
Recently a very old employee intimated that something of unusual interest could be
found in the garden. Digging operations commenced and it was not long before a
large stone slab was discovered. The coffin had been cut out of a block of Barwick
rock. Inside were bones of more than one person.

1902

The annual meeting of Newmarket Football Club heard that interest in the club
diminished when through some mistake the team was ruled out of the cup tie. After
that the season was more or less a failure. A sort of split had followed, and
another club had been started. There was not room in the town for two good clubs
and they hoped that an amalgamation would be arranged. It did not matter under what
named they played but all the best players should belong to one club

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 16th September

1977

A scheme for a superstore at Milton, which would create 200 local jobs, got the
thumbs-down from the planners. It was proposed by the Associated Dairies group
which had similar plans for the Scotsdale Garden Centre site at Gt Shelford
rejected after a lengthy inquiry. Like that plan the Milton scheme ran into fierce
opposition as soon as it was suggested. Local traders said it would push many of
them into bankruptcy. Their business had already been affected by the Tesco
superstore at Bar Hill

1952

Fire caused thousands of pounds worth of damage at Jack N. Baldry’s Mineral Water
Works at Gold Street, Cambridge. It broke out in the first floor of the factory
where corks, labels and bottles were kept & ran the whole length of the roof of one
wing, most of which was destroyed. Firemen were hampered by extremely dense smoke,
melting lead from the valleys of the roof and by many of the mineral water bottles
exploding

c.27.4

1927

The question of water supply was becoming more and more serious, Linton RDC was
told. In one side of the district there was no water. The ponds were all very low,
and the people were drinking out of roadside drains water which was impregnated
with decayed vegetable matter. There was no even water enough for cleanliness, and
something must be done. But the other side was plentifully supplied. Sawston people
would object to paying for Horseheath or Castle Camps. The question was whether
they should go on digging wells or whether it was possible to take any other
measure which would be more perfect or less expensive

1902
The Horticultural Society’s photographic exhibition was a great improvement on last
year. The amateur photographer was apt to follow the lead of the professional and
be influenced by his window exhibits. The professional photographer had absolutely
the last chance in the world of producing the best photography because he had to
work at a price and gain a livelihood. The Rev H.R. Campion, Ely, won a silver
medal for a photograph of the entrance of Bishop West’s Chapel, Ely and A.G.
Swannell was commended for a study of Houghton Mill.

c.65.5

Tuesday 17th September

1977

The prospect of severe bread famine saw about 300 people waiting outside bread
shops in Mill Road before they were open. About 80 per cent of the bread sold in
the city comes from the big bakeries now on strike. At Spillers-French Baking in
Sleaford Street, which makes about half of the bread sold in the area, 100 bakers
joined the strike.. Some small bakeries are limiting sales to one or two loaves or
serving regular customers first. The joint owner of one of Cambridge’s smaller
bakeries, Mr Jim Markillie, accused housewives of hoarding.

1952

Cambridge motor cycle enthusiasts had their first look at grass track sidecar
racing at a meeting organised by the Cambridge Centaur club. It proved to be fun
and gave R. Tennant and B. Warminster the chance to walk off with both events. In
the side-car race J. Kirby and L. Fuller were stopped in the first heat with chain
trouble but were allowed to compete in the second heat, which they won. The side-
car handicap saw Tennant and Warminster last away. Their smart-looking out-fit did
not remain there for long and, thanks to good riding, and first class acrobatics in
keeping the combination balanced by the passenger, they rode through the field to
victory.

1927

Street improvement operations are taking place at the corner of New Square and Fair
Street, Cambridge. The corner house occupied by Mr Woodley Betts, the dentist,
tends to obstruct the view of traffic and work has started on demolishing it. It is
proposed to round the corner by pulling down the present house and building another
with a rounding feature. In this way a good deal of ground will be thrown into the
public roadway and the line of vision greatly improved.

1902

The mystery attaching to the discovery of a suit of khaki clothing on the river
bank at Clayhithe has been solved in a remarkable manner. The person seen by four
labourers is declared not to have been a man at all, but a woman in disguise. When
the khaki clothed individual carrying a brown paper parcel was lost sight of a
woman appeared from the same direction. The theory is that the parcel contained not
only a woman’s attire but was further intended to be the means of removing property
which was that night to be stolen from Norman Bradley’s pawnbrokers premises in
Fitzroy Street, Cambridge.
Wednesday 18th September

1977

At 2.00 am while Cambridge slept a solitary light shines in Belgrave Road. Master
baker Roy Markillie has arrived at the family bakery. His aim – to turn out 4,000
loaves in time for the bread queues that inevitably form outside his shop at 9 am.
All his working life he has been an independent baker and so isn’t affected by the
strike that has crippled the big bread firms. He doesn’t relish the thought of
tripling his normal production rate – it simply means he will have to work flat out
for the next eight hours. At 9 am the bread goes on sale – rationed to one loaf for
each person

c.27

1952

Two Newmarket policemen were told by magistrates to “stop talking Greek”. Giving
evidence to court in several speeding cases they referred to the size of the cars
they stopped not in the terms of horsepower, as is usually the case, but in the
more obscure terms of litres. “Stop” interrupted the magistrate: “I don’t know what
you mean by all this litre business. Tell me what was this car’s horse power”. A
solicitor offered the suggestion that a rough idea of horsepower could be obtained
if the number of litres was multiplied by ten.

1927

Premises in Peas Hill, Cambridge, may be acquired for the purpose of extending the
Guildhall. Trinity Hall, the owners of nos 15 & 16 will sell for £5,500; Mr Sennitt
will sell no.17 for £3,500, the price to include compensation for disturbance of
the business and the tenant to have the option of hiring the premises until
required by the Corporation. Corpus Christi College has agreed £2,200 for no.19.
The Council is to apply to the Minister of Health for sanction to borrow the sum of
£11,700 for the purchase

c.35.7

1902

Under proper conditions Cambridge cement is equal to the finest the world produces.
The up-to-date methods of the Saxon Cement Company has resulted in it commanding a
considerable advance per ton in the open market. The Admiralty, after protracted
tests, has placed a contract for Cambridge Portland Cement which will extend over a
considerable period, proving beyond doubt that the local deposit is in every way
suited for producing a perfect natural cement.

c.27

Thursday 19th September

1977

The fens are an area strange and largely unknown to outsiders. But far stranger is
the portrait of the region just published in the “New Society”. It presents a
picture of an area struggling against poverty with people trying to bring up
families on wages of £27 a week. Some live in council houses with a good show of
vegetables in the garden but “grim and comfortless within”. The article paints a
picture of intermarriage producing subnormality, children whose slowness at school
reflects their parents’ lack of expectation for them – even the highest number of
shotgun murders in the country. There are no redeeming features. Even the weather
is described as grim, and community resources “at an unbelievably low ebb”

1952

Beetles have caused serious damage at Great Shelford church. Some months ago while
Mr L.P. Morley, one of the churchwardens, was cleaning down cobwebs from the
clerestory windows he noticed what seemed to be deterioration of some of the roof
woodwork. A thorough examination has now been made and the plate on which the whole
roof rests, both in the nave and the aisles, is so riddled with beetle-holes that
repair is a matter of urgency

1927

Three pianos were badly damaged by an outbreak of fire in a warehouse behind shop
premises opposite the Porter’s Lodge in Magdalene Street, Cambridge and it was only
through prompt action that a considerable amount of the old property in the
district was not destroyed. An oil stove was kept alight in the warehouse used by
Mr W.J. Moore, music dealer, to prevent the instruments from becoming damp and in
some way this was responsible for the outbreak.

1902

The news that it has been decided to wind up the business of the Cambridge Omnibus
Company will be received with a great deal of regret. If they cease running they
will be very seriously missed. Many employees in shops and offices now live so far
from their places of employment that without the benefit of the omnibuses it would
be a serious tax on their strength to get to and from their homes in the hour
usually allowed for dinner. The distance of the remoter parts of the town from the
station will be a serious disadvantage to residents and lead to depreciation in the
value of property.

c.26.44

Friday 20th September

1977

Veteran charity fundraiser Snowy Farr led about 150 children around Cambridge city
centre with the intention of filming the opening sequences of a children’s
television series in which he stars. But Snowy took the wrong turning and helpful
police radioed around the route trying to locate him; over-exuberant children kept
overtaking his bike; cats fell off the trailer and the goats couldn’t get through
the crowd. And then, to cap it all, sirens screamed and blue lights flashed as
three fire engines raced up Trinity Street to the Whim Restaurant. The whole thing
was organised by a group of independent cameramen who are planning to sell a series
to foreign television networks.

1952

Officials of the Cambridge Trades Fair Association are quite happy about the
results of their recent Summer Festival. Although the attendance of 78,000 showed a
reduction many of the exhibitors report considerably more sales than on the two
previous occasions. More visitors were genuinely interested in the goods on display
which means more prospective customers. Those who displayed their wares at the 1949
and 1950 fairs are still obtaining orders as a result.

1927

Sir – The other evening I had occasion to be motoring on the Soham-Wicken road. The
increasingly heavy traffic has reduced it to such a mess of pot-holes as to prove a
nightmare to the driver. Although the car was carefully driven, more than once it
was shaken from one side of the road to the other. Someone suggested that the holes
would be filled when there were enough bodies to do so. Unless this road is soon
repaired I fear many folk will be described like this: “They drove along the Soham-
Wicken road, and, behold, when they arose next morning they were all dead corpses”
– Much Perturbed

1902

Sir – Many people have felt genuine concern at the announcement that the Cambridge
Omnibus Company is to be “wound up”. Huntingdon Road, Old and New Chesterton, Mill
Road and the rapidly growing suburb of New Cherryhinton have all benefited by its
service. It is regretted that in spite of the hundred the Company has conveyed
daily, the venture does not pay. Their difficulty is the Tram Company’s opportunity
and they should arrange for a good suburban service of ‘buses to run in conjunction
with their cars – New Cherryhinton

c.26.44

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday September 23rd

1977

Bread was being made at the large Spillers-French bakery in Cambridge for the first
time in 11 days, as staff returned to work after settlement of the national strike
in “plant” bakeries. The accountant at the Sleaford Street bakery said some loaves
were coming off the production lines by mid-morning. But they would have to cool
and then be wrapped before they could be sent out. During the strike the small
independent bakers have been working flat out to try to meet demand. Most have
managed to produce around double their normal output.

c.32.5

1952

A party of 125 members of Over 60’s left for a holiday at Yarmouth. The members are
staying at seven hotels on or near the seafront belonging to the Great Yarmouth
Associated Hotels for Happy Holidays Group. Specially reduced terms have been
given. The Managers of the Wellington Pier Pavilion and Floral Hall, Gorleston,
have offered special cheap concessions for the Pier Pavilion “Showtime” and for an
Olde Tyme Ball

1927

Petrol caused quite an explosion at a meeting of the Cambridge Town Council. For
some time the Corporation has been obtaining petrol at the rate of 11d. per gallon
and the Public Works committee now recommend that 200 gallons be obtained at 1s.
1d. Some members objected to paying more and suggested the change had been made
because the cheaper grade was of Russian origin. Were the housing committee going
to stipulate that no Russian wood should be put in houses they are building? The
cheaper petrol was known as Power petrol and used by all the large firms in
Cambridge.

c.26.48

1902

Soham Grammar School is keeping abreast of the times and of modern educational
requirements. Under the present headmaster, Mr W.H. Mould, the number of scholars
has risen from 20 to nearly 70. Though of ancient foundation a progressive spirit
pervades the establishment as is evidenced by the addition of a laboratory and
workshops. Here the art and woodwork master, Mr F.V. Worthy will instruct the boys
in woodwork and the use of tools. The object is not to turn out carpenters; it is
to train the boys’ faculties so they will have an intelligent appreciation of the
value of work and of workpeople.

Tuesday 24th September

1977

A group of parents at Swaffham Prior primary school fought and won a battle to save
a full time teaching job at the school. The village school with 80 children on its
roll now has four full-time teaching staff. Now they want other parents to join
them in a campaign to prevent any reduction in the present teacher-pupil ratio of
24 pupils to one teacher in most primary schools. Secondary schools average 16.5 to
one

1952

Speeds of up to 660 mph were reached by more than 30 British and American jet
aircraft which took place in an “At Home” display at RAF Station, Duxford.
Thousands of people watched the display and similar ones at RAF Oakington, Debden
and Upwood. It opened with a fly-past of three Washington bombers which, together
with the renowned Lincolns are now the only four-engined piston bombers in service
with the RAF. There was an exhibition of teamwork by one of Duxford’s two squadrons
of Meteor jets who took part in a mock dog-fight with U.S. F84 Thunder jets and a
display from the long-nosed Super Marine Attacker

1927

The terrible secret of Power petrol discussed by Cambridge councillors is out. All
motorists have felt the power of the grip imposed by the combine firms who sell at
2d per gallon more than those refiners outside their ring. Power petrol is
manufactured at the refinery of the Medway Oil and Storage Company at Isle of
Grain, Kent. Supplies of raw material come from all over the world – including
Russia and Roumania but the petrol is as British as any other and more British than
the large majority. I have not noticed many places in Cambridge where they sell
Power petrol. Very few seem to retail it, although certain large garages take bulk
supplies.

1902

Cambridge Football Association heard that on many college grounds football was
played up to Christmas and the ground was prepared for cricket afterwards. The same
thing should be done on Parker’s Piece. Manuring had already begun. The manure was
the sweeping of the streets, which had not been sifted, but had been raked. People
were going over the ground and picking up stones. To start to play football and
then proceed to manure the ground was giving with one hand and taking away with the
other. The surveyor had said he hoped that some rain would come and wash it in.

c.32.3

Wednesday 25th September

1977

The Cambridgeshire Structure Plan proposals, which have taken officials nearly four
years to compile, were condemned as “a complete waste of time and energy” within
minutes of their formal launch. The proposals, prepared at an estimated cost of
many thousands of pounds, set out to chart the course of county-wide development
during the next 15 years. They suggest the county council’s aim should be to
improve the quality of life in the face of a continuing lack of public money.

1952

The lone Hurricane which always has the place of honour at the head of the air
parade over London was the opening item in the flying programme at Oakington RAF
station’s Battle of Britain “At Home”. Gusts of laughter swept the aerodrome during
the comedy antics of a “pupil” in a Tiger Moth who tried without a great deal of
success to emulate his “instructor” and took part in a remarkable exhibition of
markmanship. The pilot was shooting at balloons on the ground and his firing was so
accurate as to be almost incredible – until the secret was revealed by the sudden
bolt from cover of the man who had been bursting the targets for him. He was not
allowed to escape scot-free but was bombarded with bags of flour and soot.

1927

Damage estimated at £2,000 was caused by a fire which broke out at the Cambridge
Motor Service Co. Hobson Street. The night watchman found that motor cycle
department, which also stored several cars, was alight and among the vehicles which
were badly burned were a Bugatti racing car, an Austin Seven, a Trojan van and a
number of motor cycles and bicycles. Some people returning from the New Theatre
were attracted down Hobson Street and watched the Fire Brigade at work.

c.26.48

1902

There was a large attendance at a meeting to discuss forming a camera club in

Cambridge. A long time ago there was a club but it had died through lack of
interest. Prior to that there had been a club in connection with the University. In
the early 1880s it was going fairly strongly but ultimately closed. Since then
there was a club in conjunction with the YMCA but what they wanted was a club
unsectarian. It ought to be social, but not political. Mr Tindall said he could get
ten members from Ely and they had promises from villages all around Cambridge.

c.65.5

Thursday 26th September

1977

Whitehall has rejected Cambridge City Council’s representations that the county
needs a larger slice of the rate support grant “cake”, because of its growing
population. The Department of Environment says that a larger population provides
scope for economies of scale and will bring an increase of rate income because of
new building. It adds that Cambridgeshire receives less aid because its needs are
lower than those of most other authorities. The Chairman of the Finance Panel
described the reply as “just Government waffle”

1952

Members of the Merton Hall Lodge of the Manchester Unity Independent Order of
Oddfellows were told that they must have younger people coming in to take over the
work of looking after those who had fallen by the wayside. They were finding it
very difficult in every walk of life to get young folk to try to follow on and do
something for posterity. There are lots of nice people in Cambridge and if you
examine them carefully you will find they are Odd Fellows; and if you look closer
you will find that lots of them are members of Merton Hall Lodge

1927

Almost everyone in Europe was in debt and could not meet their obligations, Sir
George Paish told the annual conference of the National Savings Movement at Caius
College, Cambridge. The great distress of unemployment was entirely brought about
by the failure of people to make the savings they should make. They were spending
their money on luxuries, on motor cars. “Can we afford all these motor cars? Can we
afford to do what we are doing today and neglect the more important things”, he
asked. The Savings Movement was not a class movement. They wanted to create the
opinion in all classes in favour of saving and in favour of more and wiser
spending.

1902

There was an exceptionally large congregation at St Mary’s church, Saffron Walden,

to witness the marriage of a couple who are both deaf and dumb and there were 30
who were unable to hear and speak. The contracting parties were Mr Frederick Baish
of Cherry Hinton and Miss Emily King of Saffron Walden. The ceremony was performed
by the Rev A.H. Payne of the Deaf and Dumb Church, London.

Friday 27th September

1977

Locals in Burwell cast a quizzical eye over the new thatched roof of a cottage in
High Street. From a distance it looks the same as any other. But close up something
appears to be different. The thatch is made of fibreglass sheets, screwed to the
roof. It costs slightly more that a normal thatch but has been treated to make it
fireproof, needs no maintenance and will last far longer than a straw or reed
thatch. The product is manufactured by Fibrethatch, a Royston firm. Whatever the
benefits the roofs are bad news for birds. They will not be able to burrow their
way in to nest.

1952
Fire completely gutted the Touchwood Café on the Cambridge – Newmarket road near
the Bottisham Swan. When the fire brigade arrive the thatched roof was well alight
and the flames being fanned by a strong wind. It was eventually put out but little
of the café remained except for articles salvaged by helpers and passers-by. It is
believed the fire was caused by sparks from a bonfire behind the café which set
fire to the thatch

1927

Members of the Cambridge Labour Party showed a justifiable pride in their new
“home” which was officially opened by their prospective Parliamentary candidate. A
somewhat dilapidated one-storey building in Norfolk Terrace, latterly used as a
knitting factory, has been transformed in a wonderful way into bright, comfortable
and well-equipped premises, although the walls are unfinished owing to the plaster
not yet having been set sufficiently.

c.33.9

1902

All that is now left to the trader at Stourbridge Fair is the horse fair. This
survives and flourishes where other branches of trade have declined. Buyers were in
fair number and trading was brisk. Cart horses, hackneys and hunters, foals and
ponies were offered for sale. One dealer, Mr Titchmarsh of Barrington got rid of
about 40 carthorses during the morning. The pleasure fair consists largely of
refreshment saloons and stalls from which pungent odours proclaim, even at a
distance, the nature of the edibles on sale. Some roundabouts, swing boats and one
peep show, in Garlic Row, complete the fair

c.27.3

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 30th September

1977

Before I met The Stranglers I met their fans who formed a bizarrely-painted and
clothed chain stretching from the Corn Exchange to King’s Parade. First in the
queue was a character by the name of Rat Rancid, with his mate Garry Gangrene, from
King’s Lynn. Here were some punks that looked every bit as vile as the ones we’ve
all read about. They were horrible. I think it was the safety pins through the
cheeks that made me feel slightly sick, but it may just have been the chains
through their noses. They snarled and leered while my colleague, Mike Manni, took
their pictures. Then Rat put down his can of Party Seven and scribbled his address.
Could we send some prints. “To Rat Rancid”, I asked. “Oh, no”, he gasped. “My mum
wouldn’t like that”

c.69

1952

The arrival in this country of the greatest film mime of them all, Charlie Chaplin,
has released a flood of memories. I have the programme of a production of “Sherlock
Holmes” at the New Theatre in January 1906. It includes ‘Billy … Master Charles
Chaplin’. Charlie was then 16. Among the adults in the cast was his brother.
Charlie has announced that he intends making a sight-seeing tour while he is here.
I hope he will consider Cambridge.
c.76

1927

Cambridge Photographic Club celebrated its 25th anniversary. They were doing
admirable work in conjunction with the Cambridge Antiquarian Society in securing a
preserving a photographic record of various places which might disappear in course
of time. Ald Starr said he had joined Hills & Saunders as a lad in 1880. They used
wet plates at that time and had to coat them and sensitive them, and they would not
keep for more than a few hours.

c.65.5

1902

A fire did considerable damage at 30 Bridge Street, Cambridge, a University lodging

house situated close to the Quayside. The only fire in the house was a small one in
the grate of the back sitting room on the ground floor, but this room was not
damaged. In the front room most of the furniture was consumed and the walls and
ceiling badly burned. The fire broke out close to a gas pipe and although the grate
contained paper, sticks and coal laid in the usual way, the fire only scorched the
paper.

Tuesday 1st October

1977

Royston has become one of the dirtiest and shabbiest little towns in Hertfordshire,
according to one man who has to contend daily with a litter problem outside his
home in Kneesworth Street. At night armed with a broom and dustbin bag he collects
up piles of chip bags, sweets and cigarette wrappings, tissues and tin cans. A
mechanical roadsweeper came down the street sometimes and he once swept the rubbish
into the gutter. “The driver, believing I had emptied out household rubbish into
the road, stopped his vehicle and pushed the whole lot back into my drive”, he said

1952

The Hop Bind public house, Cottenham, had an extra visitor – a pony. ‘Dixie’ made
straight for the bar and waited while the landlord (Mr G.H. Mundy) pulled her a
generous pint of mild. With a thirsty look in her bright eyes she made light work
of it. Dixie’s owner is Mr Carl Dane who discovered her when she was being shipped
to Belgium for carcass meat and bought her for £15. Mr Dane, who was travelling
with a circus, trained the pony who can jump over a table of crockery and play the
zither with her tongue. But when it comes to beer drinking she does it for pleasure
– and doesn’t like to be kept waiting

1927

Crowds of people were unable to gain admittance to the new Labour Hall in Norfolk
Street, Cambridge for the pageant ‘The Temple of Vision’. It represents the ideals
of the Labour Party in eight episodes. These took rather an inordinate time to get
through but the show was exceedingly entertaining. The relative merits of co-
operation and private enterprise were contrasted and the performance was punctuated
with frequent and enthusiastic applause.

1902

Mr Richard Long of the rectory Farm, Fulbourn, invited his harvest men and lads to
a horkey. About 20 were present and after an excellent supper the company were
amused by songs etc. A midnight vote of thanks was proposed by Mr Sam Long. Mr
Richard Twinn also gave his men a horkey at the Six Bells. Supper was served in
good style by Mrs Whitmore and afterwards the men were regaled with tobacco and
ale.

Wednesday 2nd October

1977

An Army bomb disposal squad detonated a First World War bomb in the grounds of
Sawston Hall – after the live bomb had been sitting in the hall’s dining room for
years. The 10-inch mortar was brought back as a souvenir of the war. The owner said
he was going to give it to Duxford Aviation Museum but was advised to check whether
it was live before donation. He doubted it was filled with explosive. It probably
only had the detonator in, and would have needed a very hard knock to set it off.

1952

Newmarket Town Football Club won their first League game in 15 months. During the
interval the hitherto luckless Jockeys were the recipients of a unique footballing
presentation. To mark the sporting manner in which the Club had fulfilled all their
fixtures during their pointless 1951-52 season in the Eastern Counties League the
management presented them with a flag in the ‘Newcastle’ colours. The Jockeys have
played in black and white stripes before and their two professionals, player-
manager Arnold Grundy and Eddie Connelly were team-mates at Newcastle for seven
years. It was to the tune of “Bladen Races” that the Jockeys took the field.

1927

St Ives RDC recommended a bonus of £50 be paid to collectors for the Somersham and
St Ives districts. Mr J.L. Barton, speaking against the proposal, said that on a
previous occasion he stated that University men were willing to take the position
at 50 shillings a week. Things were no different today. He knew a case of a
Cambridge University man who was so pleased with an offer of 50 shillings a week as
a milkman that he was taking it.

1902

It was a foregone conclusion that the business of the Cambridge Omnibus Company
should be wound up. It was finally agreed to endeavour to dispose of it as a going
concern and we are still convinced that under thoroughly effective management the
business could be conducted at a profit. In the statement of company assets the
horses were valued at £16 apiece but within three weeks their condition had changed
considerably for the worse and the average is now about £6. The most valuable
assets of the Company had been allowed to become seriously depreciated at a time
when the Directors knew that to continue the business was impossible. This is one
of the “glaring mistakes” which have been made

c.26.46

Thursday 3rd October

1977

The Transport Minister is investigating claims that British Rail is planning to axe
overnight trains between Ely and Norwich and King’s Lynn. There had been
negotiations over the cuts in services between 10 pm and 6 am. At present there are
three or four trains during this time and ASLEF fear any changes would be the thin
end of the wedge in steps towards closure. But British Rail say that far from
reducing services they are actually planning some marginal improvements.

1952

In the book “Through Rose-coloured Spectacles” Mrs Edith Read Mumford looks back on
her life at Girton College in 1888. She recalls: If a brother called to see his
sister no other student was allowed to see him. On every occasion a chaperone was
necessary. A male visitor could only be seen in the college reception room where
they sat in a corner, talking in subdued tones while other students were doing the
same in other corners. Any noisy behaviour on the part of a student, even laughing
heartily at a tea party in her own room, would have been checked by the Mistress.

1927

A motor road sweeper and street cleaner was demonstrated in Jesus Lane, Cambridge.
The makers claim it has a small capital outlay, low operating costs, small turning
circle and ease of control. The brush can be lifted when not in use and sprays
fitted to damp down dust in hot weather. The machine worked over 150 yards of road
which had been specially covered with a layer of refuse. It showed a fine turn of
speed - with the brush not in use it can do 20 mph - and the rubbish was quickly
and neatly removed to the gutters. Compared with the horse sweeper now used it is
much superior.

c.29.8

1902

A fire broke out in the women’s ward at the top of the left wing of Addenbrooke's
Hospital. In a very short time the flames secured a firm hold and the unfortunate
patients had to be removed. Flames burst through the roof and worked towards the
centre of the building. Nurses and probationers heroically entered the wards and
brought their patients to a place of safety. Many scenes, tragically distressing,
were witnessed. To such proportions did the fire assume that it was deemed
advisable to remove other patients and several afflicted old men were brought to
the lawn. The news of the outbreak spread quickly throughout Cambridge and some
thousands of people gathered in front of the Hospital.

c.21.4 # c.34.75

Friday 4th October

1977

The newsagents business of Lokers on East Road has been something of a landmark
since Dobbie Loker founded the firm in 1861. They have come a long way, expanding
from a little paper shop to one of the biggest wholesalers in the area and
providing books, paperbacks, toys and other sundries as well as stationery for the
newsagents of Cambridge. They were the last shop to leave the south side of East
Road during redevelopment. Ten years ago they decided to concentrate on wholesale
trade and look for new accommodation. They have now moved to Severn Place.
1952

Cambridgeshire Education Committee has approved a proposal to provide Grammar

School education at two village colleges – Sawston and Impington. If agreed the
work of building grammar school wings may begin next April. At the end of the five-
year scheme there will be 300 grammar school places. They had been looking forward
to the establishment of a country grammar school with a useful house that could
have been adapted. Melbourn Bury, home of a former Chairman of the Education
Committee, had not received Ministry approval

1927

Theophilus Philip Starke, a boot and shoe maker, told magistrates that two men
called at his shop in Regent Street, Cambridge, and said they had come about the
sun blind, which needed repair. They borrowed a ladder and appeared to do the work.
He paid them 25 shillings but his suspicions were aroused by the way they “scuttled
off”. The blind was examined by an expert who found practically nothing had been
done to it.

1902

The scene on the open plot of greensward in front of Addenbrooke's Hospital

presented a curiously medley of hastily-improvised arrangements for caring for
patients evacuated from the blazing building. Bed after bed, each with its living
freight, was carefully lifted with stalwart arms and borne steadily to the quarters
assigned to it in neighbouring houses. In the meantime the dull clouds of smoke
rolling skywards from the Hospital gradually grew less in volume. The ceaseless
exertions of the firemen were telling their tale and soon water pouring in a
cascade down the staircase adjoining the blazing wing made it clear that the
building was flooded to the extent that rendered the further spread of the fire
improbable

c.21.4 # c.34.75

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 7th October

1977

The Cambridge department store Laurie and McConnal in Fitzroy Street is to close in
December. Indecision over plans for the Kite area redevelopment is the reason, said
Mr Anthony Frais. “We have tried everything we know to get something moving in the
Kite, and while the council is now at last seeing sense we cannot afford to wait
the two years before anything actually happens. As a small family company are
paying penal rates.” The business was established nearly 100 years ago.

c.27.2

1952

Oakington Parish Council has withdrawn their objection to the building of a new
road to replace the one crossing the airfield which has been closed. They had
claimed the scheme would be a waste of public money, the road would be of no use to
Oakington and the route would be a public danger. The Air Ministry said the road
would be lowered about two feet to ensure “flying clearance”

1927

Hildersham inhabitants turned out in force to hear the Mayor of Cambridge, J.H.
Conder, talk of the village as he remembered it 50 years ago. There used to be a
parish herdsman as the cows belonging to various people all went into a common
herd. A great fire had broken out in two places at once. The Rectory farm
buildings, tithe barn and Manor Farm barn were burnt down. A large house called the
“Rookery” was standing empty and was pulled down so the bricks could be taken to
build a new barn. This was a great pity because the house was a very fine one.

1902

In the centre of Cambridge a man will pay any price in reason for the tobacco which
appeals most to his palate. But in other quarters, such as Mill Road where the
small shopkeeper thrives and people like a lot for their money a great quantity of
cigarette packets containing showy photographs and alluring coupons have been sold.
Mr Banyard of East Road, Cambridge says customers gave over their regular brands
for those with the coupons but the demand was chiefly in cheap cigarettes. But
Cambridge undergraduates have not descended to packs of Tabs, or even to tu-penny-
ha’-penny Guinea Gold.

Tuesday 8th October

1977

The sudden news of Laurie’s closure has come as a shock to the City Council team
involved in drawing up the Kite plans. Council leader, John Powley, said he was
“very sorry indeed” and could well understand their frustration at the indecision.
“Gradual renewal of the are, as some people want, just will not happen and will
lead to a speedy decline of the whole area. A satisfactory scheme must be produced
as speedily as possible. Constant delays are not good for the area, for the people
of the city, or for Cambridge as a whole”.

c.49.4 : Kite

1952

Former members of the RAF Motor Transport Unit travelled to Cambridge to dine at
the Lion Hotel and talk of their wartime Cambridge billet – King’s College. They
specialised in large-scale Service “removals”, such as shifting an entire service
from one place to another. Early one morning a fleet of 32-seater coaches left the
Backs in the company of a self-contained mobile feeding lorry and sped to a
smouldering Coventry where emergency meals were prepared and served to the
homeless. Thereafter the coaches helped provide a public transport service for them

c.45.7

1927

Cambridge Photographic Club had made progress with the photographic survey of the
county and over 100 prints were produced. There was still a great deal to be done
and this should be regarded as one of the most important parts of the club’s work.
A collection of photographs of Cambridge was exhibited in the Public Library. The
East Anglian Federation had held its summer meeting in Cambridge, but the weather
was not in favour of photography.

c.65.5
1902

The police report on the Addenbrooke's Hospital fire says they found a man at the
top of a ladder with his head through the trap door leading to the roof of Victoria
Ward, using a small hosepipe. Shortly afterwards the firemen arrived and after much
trouble, mainly through the low pressure of water, got to work, but could not
extinguish the flames before the roof and contents of Victoria Ward were destroyed.
Police assisted to maintain order, regulate the traffic in Trumpington Street where
there was a large crowd, and remove and restore patients, many of whom were in a
fainting condition.

c.21.4 # c.34.7

Wednesday 9th October

1977

The news that Laurie and McConnal’s department store is closing will have come as a
surprise to most people. But to anyone who regularly used the store it was only a
question of time before they succumbed to the inevitable. Even at the height of the
shopping day you could be the only potential customer in any one department. It had
50,000 sq ft of selling space, spread over five floors to service, heat, decorate
and keep full of merchandise and the passing trade had dropped off dramatically as
so many houses have been knocked down and food shops have disappeared from the Kite
area.

c.27.2

1952

Cherry Hinton church held a special thanksgiving service for the completion of
repair work. The tower roof has been renewed and a new steel bell frame installed;
the bells have been tuned and rehung and the belfry floor renewed. All the woodwork
of the church has been treated against death watch beetle and woodworm and much of
the roof re-tiled. The bells then rang out for the first time in four years.

1927

The Medical Officer told Ely Guardians he had nowhere at the Institution to put
infectious cases. Recently they had a refractory tramp in one ward, two lunatics
under observation, both of whom required extra assistance, and had no means of
isolating them. He had one case in the bathroom and another in the general ward,
which upset the inmates. It was illegal to keep children in the House and some
years ago they had turned the isolation hospital into a children’s home which now
housed 11 children and they might get an influx of two families with five or six in
each.

1902

Addenbrooke's Hospital Governors heard the roof over Victoria Ward has been
completely destroyed by the fire and the adjoining corridor is partially so. The
plaster of the walls of the ward was damaged and the wards themselves are doubtless
injured. The floor has been partially damaged. The beds, a quantity of bedding,
linen, tables, chairs and other furniture have been destroyed or damaged and the
ceiling of the Hatton Ward is also injured by water, so much that it will have to
be taken down. All the property is insured.
Thursday 10th October

1977

Hopes of bringing mains sewerage connections to isolated villages are no nearer

being realised. The only exception being allowed by the Anglian Water Authority
arises when the present conditions offer a health hazard. Coun Jack Warren said:
“Conditions have got to be intolerable before we will do anything. I think we are a
really stodgy lot. Sewage has got to be coming out of the taps before we will do
anything”. But the chairman said it was the Department of the Environment which had
clamped down on pioneer rural schemes.

1952

One of these days while in session at the annual meeting at Clayhithe the
Conservators of the Cam might be let down – badly and literally. The chairs in the
Board Room are so rotted and worm-eaten that they are no longer safe to sit on. The
large mahogany table running the length of the room is affected too. So are the
floorboards and other parts of the house. Their launch, Richwing, was kept afloat
by tar and canvas and it was necessary to take it out of the water and re-plank
her.

1927

A fire broke out in the stackyard at Further Farm, Stretham fen and eight were
totally destroyed. Considerable difficulty was experienced in getting the fire
engine to the farm owing to the condition of the drove, but with the help of three
horses from the farm this was accomplished. Mr F. Oakey drove from Ely in his motor
and arrived before the firemen. He dashed into the flames and drove out a
practically red hot tractor from between the blazing stacks into a place of safety.
Luckily a good supply of water was available from the dykes which had been filled
by opening the dam at Morton’s Farm.

1902

Earl Grey’s Public House Trust movement is spreading to Cambridgeshire. Moderate

temperance advocates see in a public house specially organised to push the sale of
food and non-intoxicants, but supplying drink to those who desire it, one of the
best and most certain means of lessening the terrible amount of excessive drinking
which unhappily prevails in this country. The managers have absolutely no
financial interest in the sale of drink which strikes at the root of an abuse which
goes on far too extensively – the supplying with drink of men, who if not
absolutely drunk, have obviously had more than is good for them.

c.27.4

Friday 11th October

1977

More shops in the Kite area will be forced to close unless something is done
quickly to rejuvenate the area. A number of stores have been teetering on the brink
for some time and could go out of business. This has been caused by all the little
ginger groups, all pushing for their own things. They hack and maul among
themselves and all they succeed in doing is to cause the sort of intolerable
position that Lauries found itself in. It is all very well saying the Kite should
stay exactly as it is. But it cannot. It has changed markedly over the years and is
still changing. It either has to be redeveloped in some fashion, or it dies.

c.49.4 : Kite

1952

If some bright young first-year Freshman had not done some checking up, 1,200
Cambridge undergraduates might now be on the carpet for trampling on the Senate
House lawn. New undergraduates found in their room a printed notice inviting them
to hear an address by the “University Chamberlain” – but it was a hoax, there is no
such office. The University Registrary was besieged with telephone inquiries and
ordered the closing of the gates. Hundreds gathered around the Senate House curious
to see what would happen but two hefty specimens of City Police proceeded to keep
the sight-seers moving. Thus fizzled out the Freshman’s Hoax, 1952 version.

1927

Members of Cambridge Corporation paid a visit to the gasworks to see for themselves
how gas is produced. They were greatly impressed. The Mayor said: “Some of us have
grown up in the belief that essential services should belong to the public but no
matter who owns them when we have efficient managers things are done well”. The
Vice-chairman of the Gas Company said that the Town Council and the Gas Company
both exist to produce gas. “It may be that the Town Council gas is more lethal than
ours!”

1902

A Newmarket man was summoned for betting on the highway at Exning. PC Clark said he
saw defendant came out of the Cherrytree Inn and walk up and down. People came up
and slips of paper were given to him. He asked defendant for the slips and, after
the names of the horses had been entered into a book, they were handed to him. In
mitigation the man said he had acted in ignorance of the law – proved by the fact
he had been making bets in the face of the policeman. This and the fact that
betting was carried on by a large majority of the people of Newmarket led him to
believe he had done nothing wrong. He was fined 2s 6d with 7s 6d costs.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 15th October

1977

The latest and controversial proposals for rebuilding the Kite area of Cambridge
took another step along the long road to becoming reality when the city council
accepted them in principle as a basis for discussion with a number of companies
interested in financing the project. It took almost two hours of debate – which at
times became heated and bitter – to reach the decision. Supporters warned against
further delays; Coun Gough Goodman said “Filibustering in the council chamber has
resulted in the loss of jobs for many people and the loss of a splendid business,
Laurie & McConnal”

1952

Seven thousand Cambridge television viewers are promised almost perfect reception
if official sanction is received for a new T.V. broadcasting station to open early
in the New Year. The original BBC signal will be picked up on a 50-foot-high aerial
on the “Gogs” and beamed down on the city. John Peak, manager of Peak’s King Street
television service, the sponsors of the scheme said: “Viewers will receive an
almost unmarred signal well in time for the Coronation”. The large “H” aerial now
on chimney-pots would no longer be necessary; instead a small rod can be hung from
the bedroom window.

1927

No woman has photographed more Royalty or distinguished people than Miss Olive
Edis, the well-known expert in the production of monochrome and colour photography.
She has her third annual exhibition in Cambridge, although she has worked in the
town for some 20 years. One wall has a display of portraits of well-known Cambridge
people but the greatest attraction will be the colour photography of local scenes

c.65.5

1902

Sir – Canterbury Road, Chesterton was made by ourselves, as owners, at a cost of

£90, in the anticipation at the Council would take it over, which they promised to
do. We have asked them several times to do so and the only excuse they make is that
it must be steam rolled. We have had it rolled. We have worked in every way to
conform to their orders and the only reason we have placed posts across the road is
to protect and preserve the road from being cut up by vehicular traffic – J.
Piddock, H. Riseley, E. Wonfor

Tuesday 16th October

1977

Stapleford Parish Council reaffirmed that it was willing to run the village library
with voluntary helpers if it would result in it being saved. The library, which
occupies a room in the school, is open for eight hours a week and its one of eight
threatened with closure by the County Council. But the County Librarian says this
could not be considered because it would cause trouble with the trade union.

1952

Six coachloads of people travelled from Barrington to the Victoria Restaurant,

Cambridge to have dinner. They were employees of Eastwoods Cement Ltd who were
celebrating the 25th anniversary of the opening of the works. Each guest went home
with a gift – a silver hairbrush for the men, a powder compact for the ladies. Some
of the cement workers missed the dinner through having to be on duty. They will be
treated to another function later and a telegram of good wishes was sent to them on
Saturday night.

1927

The Prime Minister is expected to visit Barrington to open the new cement works. A
distinguished company of about 100 will journey from London by special saloon
carriages and the light railway direct to the works. The new works are already
turning out great quantities of cement and when the second kiln is complete will be
one of the largest cement works north of the Thames. About 200 men will be employed
there permanently and it is expected that from a country village Barrington soon
will be transformed into something like a small industrial town

1902
The proprietors of the CDN also publish the “Ely Weekly Guardian” and is
represented in Ely by a reporter who devotes his whole time to our service. Messrs
Sharman and Co publish the “City of Ely Standard” which competes in the surrounding
district. During the past few months large quantities of news have been taken from
the CDN and published in their paper. Now we have received a letter from Mr A.
Sharman to say he has requested his staff to refrain from “scissors and paste” in
future.

c.04

Wednesday 17th October

1977

Mitchams, the Cambridge department store, is to close after 68 years. Mr Charles

Mitcham converted a house in 1909 and opened up the store. It spread into adjoining
buildings and today sells almost everything but furniture. The shop was sold when
Mr Mitcham died during the war and was taken over two months ago by a Manchester-
based insurance group. The manager said: “It is more than just a shop closing. It
is part of the city about to vanish”

c.27.2

1952

Two hundred people gathered around the doorway of the new Memorial Hall of Cherry
Hinton Free Church. In their midst stood the bricklayers and electricians, the
carpenters and the painters who had built it. And there were the ladies who had
made the tea. Churchgoers have built it with their own hands. It was a memorial to
all those in the church who had played their part in the last war: on the civilian
as well as on the military field of battle. It was a memorial to the living as well
as to the dead.

c.83

1927

Sir – I see that Mr Baldwin is so delighted to find an undertaking which is

employing more men rather than turning them off, that he is coming to open the new
cement works in Barrington. I wonder if he will ask where the 200 men who are going
to be employed are to be housed. I doubt if 20 houses have been build in
neighbouring villages since the war and there is a long waiting list of people not
connected with the works. A large proportion of the men at present employed are
being lodged in houses where there is no proper accommodation for them, and if
another hundred men are to be taken on shortly the congestion will be appalling –
G.T. Garratt, Barrington

1902

The villagers of Girton hope to conclude their celebration of the Coronation in

November. The commemorative festivities have been taking place by instalments. Two
celebrations are now things of the past. It is singular that neither of them
coincided with the ceremony the memory of which they were meant to perpetuate. On
the original date a tea was held but subsequently no time could be spared for
anything less serious that the harvest. Wet weather accounts for the third
postponement until “the Fifth” when the villagers will see a fireworks display and
then at last Girton’s Coronation festivities will be over
GIRTON

Thursday 18th October

1977

Prime Minister, Jim Callaghan, arrived in Cambridge to address a Labour Party

Conference in the Guildhall and talk to the Fabian Society in the Union Society
building. Leaders of the city’s Sidewalk Surfers skateboarding group waiting
outside got no promises of support for their skateboard rink campaign. Over lunch
local Labour Party leaders – including Mrs Janet Jones talked of next year’s rate
support grant settlement for the county. In his speech Mr Callaghan welcomed
President Carter’s willingness to reduce nuclear weapons and said he sought a
comprehensive ban on nuclear explosions

c.33

1952

The Cambridge Town Clerk has received 44 applications from would-be purchasers of
council houses from tenants of pre-war and post-war houses. Some come from tenants
who wish to buy Council premises other than those in which they already reside. The
Council recommends that pre-war houses be sold only to sitting tenants, the price
to be the replacement value. The Government has made it quite clear it encouraged
house ownership but it was up to each local authority whether they wished to sell
their houses.

1927

No longer does the Oxford or Cambridge “Bobby” walk about in fear of his life and
his helmet, no longer does the local publican wax fat on healthy young thirsts and
the tailor bemoan bad trade. Undergraduates are changing their “manners”. The
“sloshing” of policemen is out of fashion. Roaring ribald songs between great
draughts of ale is simply not “done”. Nowadays slovenliness in dress is revolting.
This is the age of “refinement”. Nowadays the undergraduate “works off” high
spirits by “rushing about the country on wheels” – so said the Warden of All Soul’s
College, Oxford

1902

In consequent of the strike amongst the coal workers in the United States large
quantities are being exported from this country to the benefit of the colliery
owners but to the detriment of the home consumers. October is a month in which the
reoccupation of the colleges and the advent of cold weather create an immense
demand for coal in Cambridge but the quantity at the depots in the Great Eastern
district are somewhat below the average. Wood blocks which develop an enormous
quantity of smoke & smoulder in a depressing manner now command a quicker sale than
before.

Friday 19th October

1977

The Prime Minister, Jim Callaghan, has privately assured Cambridge Labour Party
leaders that the County Council’s financial difficulties will be sorted out –
probably over a two-year period. Substantial Government financial help is on the
way to stop massive cuts in council services – including the sacking of nearly 200
teachers. This follows cuts of more than £[POUND]10 million in Government aid this
year

1952

In the shadow of 15-feet-high brightly coloured maps of the proposed new City-of-
Cambridge-to-be, nearly 100 barristers, solicitors and officials assembled at the
Senate House for the opening of the Public Inquiry into the County Development
Plan. Nearly 500 seats have been set out for objectors and for the public. Four
women shorthand writers are on duty to compile a complete record of every word
uttered in the course of the proceedings. The Inquiry will continue at the Senate
House until Friday and then transfer to Shire Hall.

1927

The Ely coroner sat for four hours at the Red Lion, Stretham to inquire into the
death of two men who met with a tragic end whilst motor cycling to their homes. The
constable at Wilburton said he had received complaints respecting a motor lorry
stationary on the Wilburton Road. He made an examination of the rear lamp, which
was not alight so he obtained some oil and lit the lamp. Mr Warren later asked for
permission to go and put some lights on it. Dr Charles Howe of Haddenham said he
received a telephone message that two men had run into a stationary lorry and found
the bodies lying on the grass beside the road.

1902

A Bottisham farmer was summonsed for unlawfully killing a bustard. His cowman saw a
bird walking about among the cabbages and shot it. He gave it to the farmer who,
not knowing what it was and whether it was good for food, took it to Mr Stanley’s
at Cambridge who said he thought it was a sort of turkey. It was sent to be stuffed
at Mr Farren’s who identified it as a great bustard, about two years old, worth
about £20. The Chief Constable said a bird of this kind had been seen at Swaffham
Fen and he had 30 placards with reference to its protection posted up. The man was
fined £2

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 21st October

1977

Undergraduates at Jesus College, Cambridge, are to keep watch in an ancient room

for ghostly happenings on the night of All Souls. They will be on the look-out for
the seven members of the college’s reputed Everlasting Club, formed in 1738 which
conferred eternal membership. Once a year the members promised to return to their
original meeting room. But one by one they died. In 1766 the last surviving member
sat down for annual cerebration with six empty chairs for his deceased colleagues.
From 10 until midnight there was a ‘hideous uproar’ in the room after which he was
found dead.

c.39

1952

Wilburton parents signed a petition against proposals to convert the Manor of

Wilburton into a residential school for educationally sub-normal children. The
present village school was black-listed as far back as 1912 and condemned in 1937
so a new school was long overdue. Its position on the main street which carried an
incessant stream of traffic constituted a daily danger to the children. The Manor
standing at the end of a long drive was part of the heritage of the village and
could be adapted to make an ideal and beautiful school for village children.

1927

Considerable progress has been made with the restoration work in old buildings at
Buckden Palace, partly demolished many years ago. The destroyed north wing of the
Gate House is now to a great extent rebuilt on the old foundation. The material
used is largely old, having come from Stanwick Hall, Yorkshire, the lately
demolished house of the Duke of Devonshire.

1902

The New Edisonograph Animated Pictures were presented for the first time in
Cambridge. They are by far the best yet seen, being considerably larger than usual
and without any flicker. The Coronation pictures are exceptionally clear and very
vivid are the pictures of the Prince and Princess of Wales visiting the dinners to
the poor in London. For those sentimentally inclined nothing can be finer than the
“Soldier’s Return from the War” – to find the house to let and his mother in the
Workhouse. The band of the University Volunteers is engaged and add much to the
evening by their appropriate music. The pictures will be changed nightly and
animated scenes of Cambridge streets will be presented.

c.76.9

Tuesday 22nd October

1977

The Three Horseshoes at Stapleford, which had been closed since April 1976 is gone
forever. And in its place is a completely new pub, The Longbow. Only the exterior
of the building remains the same, inside are all the comforts of a modern
establishment. Initially they are stocking Truman Crown, Whitbread Trophy and
Whitbread “BB” mild on draught but intend to supply according to local demand.

1952

I popped in at the University Senate House to see how the County Development Plan
Inquiry was going and to watch history in the making. For never before has the
Senate House been thrown open for the public to come and go at will.
Representatives of County and City faced each other in serried ranks and aloft in
the balcony undergraduates and others looked down upon the historic scene. We know
the University are vitally concerned in this great scheme but their willingness to
allow its use is further evidence of the very friendly relationship now existing
between Town and Gown

1927

A slight failure occurred at one of the Electricity Supply Company substations and
for about half-an-hour people living in Mill Road, Cambridge and not equipped with
gas were feeling their way in the darkness. Temporary confusion reigned at the
Gwydir Street baths where the weekly ablutions were being performed. All the baths
were occupied and the bathers found themselves in a somewhat awkward predicament.
One gentleman spent some time looking for the soap. But the situation was overcome
by the prompt action of one of the attendants who sped to a nearby shop and
purchased some candles.

1902
At Cambridge Photographic Club the President (Dr Bansall) said pictorial work – by
which he meant the making of pictures and not “fuzzygraphs” - was one of the most
delightful branches of their art. It was easy to obtain a really high-class
portrait for a reasonable sum of money, but the re-toucher polished away all the
defects of the sitter’s face. Cambridge was fortunate in having a first-rate colour
photographer in Mr Stoakley who would give a demonstration of what he had done in
this wonderfully interesting work.

c.65.5

Wednesday 23rd October

1977

Structure plan ideas for channelling Cambridge expansion population into the
“pleasant little villages” of Milton and Waterbeach over the next 15 years have
been described as “completely abhorrent” by Coun Paddy Crossman. He doubted that
the population increase during the next 20 years would be anywhere near as high as
the 12,800 predicted by the planners. Among the proposals is one to permit Milton
(pop 1,400) to expand to 6,000 and to allow for industrial development in the
village to provide jobs. Waterbeach is earmarked for some development, though on a
much smaller scale.

1952

The County Development Plan public inquiry took a dramatic turn when Magdalene
College announced it had decided to oppose proposals to widen Magdalene Street. The
“donnish mind” did not often descend to take part in proceedings of this kind but
this is a “bad plan and would be a disaster both to the University and the City of
Cambridge”, their counsel said. “You should not have motor traffic moving so fast
that the lives of pedestrians and motorists are imperilled”. Everyone wants
Cambridge to remain a place in which the pedestrian, the cyclist and the motorist
are more on less on an equal footing.

c.44.6

1927

The new ballroom in the University Arms Hotel, Cambridge, with is delightful
atmosphere, its perfect spring floor and super-modern lighting, welcomed the first
of its dancing parties to a first-class dinner-dance equal in every way to the
Savoy Hotel or any other London night-club. Splendidly rehearsed the Cambridge
University Arms Hotel Band played all the latest music from London and New York. It
was supplied by Stanley Miller whose Cantabrigians have already made good
impressions on the Cambridge public

c.69

1902

The manager of the Cambridge Tramways Company was summoned for damaging, injuring
and spoiling the public convenience situated at Hyde Park Corner by scribbling on
the woodwork with a pencil, thereby doing damage to the amount of 2s. After looking
round to see if the custodian, Mr Thompson, was there he had scribbled “Thompson,
old pig” on the woodwork.

Thursday 24th October

1977

Take the dull and empty expanse of East Road roundabout in Cambridge, combine it
with the recent clamour for a city skateboard park and the result is a plan which
has just won Cambridge architect Keith Garbett and artist Jon Harris first place in
a national competition. The idea incorporates a “pipe” with a viewing platform
above where spectators can watch skateboarders emerge from a tunnel, a bowl with an
up-and-down return slope and a slalom slope where skateboarders can weave in and
out of rubber bollards. The Mayor said he would be happy to see the plan go before
council officials for consideration but would it attract children to a busy
junction and might impede its real purpose which is to let people cross the road
safely

1952

A hundred years ago Girton village formed a cricket club. Though they won many
games they never had any thing tangible to show for their success until this year
when they won the Cambs Senior League Championship. On Saturday, with the cup
taking pride of place on the top table at the celebration dinner held in the
Women’s Institute Hall, more than 60 players and supporters heard of the splendid
spirit and sportsmanship which dominated the club.

1927

Cambridge Co-operative Society opened its new model dairy at Sleaford Street. The
manager, Mr J. Quincey said they were now retailing nearly 400 gallons a day. They
served the purest and cleanest milk possible. “People say they want milk straight
from the cow. But if they only saw the cleaning machine when it was taken to pieces
it would surprise and probably stagger them to know the filth and dirt which came
from the milk, even though they were getting the best milk from clean producers”.

c.27

1902

Oliver St John of the Phoenix Brewery, Little Shelford, brewer trading as Saunders
and Co applied for discharge from bankruptcy. In 1887 he had started as a brewer in
Whittlesford, purchasing the business as a going concern. In 1892 he left, having
lost the whole of his capital and became tenant of a brewery at Lt Shelford,
borrowing from his brother. In 1892 he gave a bill of sale in favour of his brother
for the plant, barrels and effects but next year was pressed by other creditors.

Friday 25th October

1977

Cliff Richard, pop superstar and hot gospeller, fervently preached a message to the
converted during his first Cambridge concert for many years. Unfortunately the
message was hammered home between every song. He talks about his religious beliefs
so much that I was bored beyond embarrassment. Why couldn’t he just sing? He
delivered Elvis’ “Heartbreak Hotel” and his own unforgettable early hit, “Living
Doll” and just before the end really started rockin’ up a storm with two heavy beat
numbers, real vintage Richard rock ‘n’ roll.

c.69

1952
Proposals for the bus station at Drummer Street, Cambridge, were discussed at the
Planning Inquiry. The bus company preferred a station to be sited on New Square
which was double the area of Drummer Street. But would passengers agree – and they
are entitled to be considered sometimes. Half to two-thirds would use Emmanuel
Street. The amount of bus traffic would increase if greater provision was made &
there would be a traffic blockage at Four Lamps roundabout

1927

Cambridge Planning Committee considered a letter from the Cambridge Co-operative

Society asking for St James Road to be renamed Sleaford Street. They agreed to take
steps to this end. The Housing committee agreed that Triplex stoves be installed in
the 112 houses being erected on the King’s Hedges site and that work proceed with
distempering 24 timber-framed houses on the site.

1902
As the King drove to Newmarket races in an open carriage an Italian organ-grinder
named Arpino was grinding out the strains of “When the boys come marching home once
more”. When the Royal carriage passed the Italian raised his hat and held it as is
customary with him for a coin. The King ordered the carriage to stop. Arpino ran to
catch it up and said, in Italian, “Good morning, King”. This unusual mode of
address evidently caused the King considerable amusement for as the carriage drove
off he was thrown a florin. Arpino now says the King has “patronised” him and he
intends to have the Royal Arms painted on his organ.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 28th October

1977

The spate of UFO sightings south of Cambridge has continued. Saffron Walden police
received two independent reports of what appeared to be two very large headlamps
which went into a star shape the size of a double-decker bus. It then transformed
into the shape of a shuttlecock with red beams coming from both ends. The sequence
was repeated six times. The next night a driver saw a bright amber light trailing
an aircraft, it then hovered and dashed across the sky at very high speed. About a
dozen other people claim to have seen strange lights in the sky during the last few
months.

1952

Three farm labourers beet singling in a field at Westley Waterless had a lucky
escape when they decided to break off for lunch two minutes before a Meteor jet
fighter crashed into the field. Due to the heavy rain they decided to go home for
lunch. The engines landed on the spot where the men had just finished working. Two
of the men had reached the road but Mr V. Clements had stayed an extra minute or
two in order to complete a row and was 50 yards from the crash. The pilot of the
plane, on a flight from RAF Waterbeach, was killed.

1927

The County Education Committee approved the erection of a village college at

Sawston. The basis of the institution is a Senior School which will be an
elementary and not a secondary school. This will provide an advanced education for
older children and pay special attention to practical instruction, particularly
woodwork, domestic subjects and gardening. They were anxious to give a really good
education on a rural basis. It was an experiment that was practically unique. The
name ‘village college’ has been chosen for a building which provided for both
elementary and adult (including agricultural) education and at the same time would
be available for social activities.

1902

St Mary’s church, Swaffham Prior, having been for years the ruinous companion in
the same churchyard, of the parish church of St Cyriac is now open once more for
public worship. The work of restoration had been proceeding for a considerable
time. It is now probably one of the most unique looking sacred buildings in all
England. The old and new parts form a bizarre combination. Above a new roof are the
remains of what has been a magnificent Norman tower. About half of it is left and
is still extremely picturesque. Before a large congregation the Bishop conducted
the re-opening service after which St Cyriac’s ceased to be, and St Mary’s became
the parish church.

Tuesday 29th October

1977

There is a strong element of industrial activity in Cambridge at the moment. There

are already a number of famous and well-established large scientific concerns and
nearly every month sees the setting up of a new firm based on scientific
manufacturing and development. It is an open secret that in the past a number of
the world’s scientific giants have made approaches to the official powers that be
in Cambridge about the possibility of setting up business in the city. But the city
authorities have had to reject the approaches reluctantly because of the
development plan strictures designed 30 years ago.

1952

Hollywood has discovered a brilliant new film star. He is Richard Burton, the
British stage actor who has just finished playing opposite Olivia de Havilland and
is now lined up to star in “Desert Rats”. Cambridge audiences saw and admired this
fine 26-year-old player at the Arts in March of this year when he played the part
of an officer in the virile play “Montserrat”. Our critic drew attention to his
great acting and added: “If Mr Burton does nothing more in the theatre his success
in this part should ever give him a satisfying memory”

1927

The Chief officer of Ely Fire Brigade reported on the fire in Stretham fen. It was
in a most inaccessible place and they had difficulty in getting there. The lorry
lamps were absolutely useless; any new lorry should have an electric lamp. Mr
Harvey asked if the firemen got extra for the night hours. They put in a lot of
time and the insurance people must be obliged to them for saving what they did. He
thought they were not paid much for it. If there had been any farm hands to help
they would have been away seven or eight hours earlier.

1902

The members of the Cambridge Y.M.C.A. celebrated their jubilee with a soiree in
their rooms in Alexandra Street. 50 years ago the Church of England Young Men’s
Society and the Sunday School Teachers’ Institute amalgamated, forming the
Association. It settled in Rose Crescent. In 1853 it moved to larger premises at 5,
Sidney Street, moving to Hobson Place in 1858 and then St Edward’s Passage. In 1870
the first stone was laid of their present building; it was completed a year later.
To call the soiree a success is scarcely adequate; the visitors never had a dull
moment from the time they entered the door until the National Anthem brought the
evening to a close.

c.37.9

Wednesday 30th October

1977

The Jesus Green and Abbey outdoor swimming pools in Cambridge may be drained until
early spring and turned into temporary skateboarding rinks. The Mayor has asked
city council officers to look into the possibilities and if the investigation
proves they can be used he will try and persuade the city council to approve the
plan, thus bypassing the long and tedious committee procedure. Meanwhile Forest
Heath District Council has decided that skateboarding is here to stay and accepted
in principle a proposal to provide ‘beginners’ skateboarding tracks at Mildenhall,
Newmarket and Brandon.

1952

Cambridge City council has decided not to proceed with their proposal to widen
Magdalene Street and reconstruct the great bridge. They had heard objections by the
University and a statement on behalf of Magdalene College & believed that with
mutual co-operation between the city and colleges some of the causes for the
present traffic congestion could be removed. But if it became a choice of either
the spine relief road or of widening Magdalene Street then they would choose the
latter alternative.

c.44.6

1927

An extremely lively meeting was held at Matthew’s Café in connection with the
Cambridge University Labour Club’s first meeting. Mr Jack Jones, M.P. was the
speaker. The room was overflowing with undergraduates and women students of various
political sections. Sugar was thrown, red flags exhibited and cries of “We want
Jones” contributed to the general laughter and talking. Although interrupted
countless times he managed to make his audience listen to what he had to say.

c.33

1902

Not long ago the remotest of all probabilities seemed to be that a time would come
when, at Cambridge, Briton and Boer would grasp hands in perfect concord. Yet that
strange event has come to pass. Boers visited and received a cordial welcome from a
large number of people. But unfortunately their reception by a certain section of
the inhabitants had neither the element of cordiality nor of welcome. The
appearance of our former foes was the signal for a hostile demonstration. A huge
crowd gathered in front of the Auckland Road Circus to witness the arrival of the
Generals, whose visit was to raise money to restock Boer farms. Bricks and stones
were hurled upon the zinc roof and hooting and shouting mingled with the other
noises.

c.45.4
Thursday 31st October

1977

When Mr Reg Smart first looked at a site in Newmarket for which his company had
tendered for the contract to build 259 council dwellings, he admitted it looked
frightening. For this contract was worth £ [POUND] 2 million. The business started
in the early 1960s from a Cambridge council house with the sum of £[POUND] 30
holiday pay which he received when leaving the gas board. The success of Phantom
and Moreton estate venture which was completed four months ahead of schedule shows
how far R.H. Smart Ltd has come since its early days. The whole idea of the estate
has been to get away from the often drab uniformity of council estates. It is in an
ideal setting and has a rural feeling about it.

1952

As part of intensive tightening up of police precautions in Newmarket – designed

principally to combat big race week robberies – West Suffolk Police have introduced
dog patrols into the town. A powerful-looking alsatian made his debut accompanied
by a police constable last night. This follows other precautions including the
strengthening of all-night patrols and an appeal to the public to dial 999 if they
saw anything suspicious.

1927

Cambridge councillors spent a couple of hours observing the capabilities of another

motor road sweeper, the “Karrier” Patent Road Sweeper, Sprinkler and Collector”. It
was first tried in Jesus Lane where a large quantity of newly fallen plane tree
leaves were thickly scattered about the roadway and had drifted to a depth of four
inches. A quantity of road sweepings had also been laid and pressed down firmly by
passing traffic. Some of this and patches of horse droppings proved very difficult
to remove and the large leaves presented a serious problem. A great quantity of the
leaves was removed and lifted into the tipping truck at the back of the vehicle but
some of the leaves spun round with the brush and were deposited on the roadway
again behind it.

c.29.8

1902

A most enjoyable evening was spent by about one hundred harvest-men of the Stretham
district who were invited to supper by Messrs Bailey and Tebbutt of the Panton
Brewery, Cambridge. Afterwards a concert was held in which local talent took a
prominent part, especially a youth named Dimmock who shows great promise of
becoming a good comic singer. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded George Wright
who for several years has placed his large barn at the disposal of the guests for
this annual feast and to Host and Hostess Jacobs for the excellent manner in which
they cater for the large company.

Friday 1st November

1977
Restoration work on the picturesque Bourn windmill was officially completed this
weekend. Millwright, Mr Phil Davies, put the finishing touches to the £[POUND]
7,000 job earlier this month and it was left to his wife to unveil a commemorative
plaque above the entrance to the mill, reputed to be one of the oldest in the
country. Work on the mill started after two sails were torn off during the gales of
January 1976. When the Cambridge Preservation Society embarked on the restoration
work it was estimated it would cost about £[POUND] 3,000 but the state of the other
sails pushed the costs up.

1952

Within the last 60 years Cambridge Cattle Market, once one of the smallest in the
country, has become one of the largest. When the Mayor opens the latest addition –
the new store cattle sale yard with its covered-in accommodation for about 500
people and penning facilities for upwards of 1,000 head of cattle – it will mark
the beginning of a new era in which the Cattle Market may well become a national
centre for livestock sales. The present market was opened in 1885 and until 1912
was small; by 1939 it was handling 200-300 fat cattle, 1,000 sheep and 500 pigs a
week.

1927

Chesterton RDC considered the proposed erection of a bridge at Twenty-man’s Ferry,

near Cottenham. An application was received from Wilburton parish council that the
bridge should be erected and the road be put in good repair. It would relieve the
traffic from the Ely main road and relieve the congestion which was very acute on
that road. They ought to get the feelings of the Cottenham people; the bridge would
be a bigger benefit to them more than anybody else.

1902

Ely council has conferred with the manager of the Gas Company as to the proposed
new lamps on Ely High Bridge. It was agreed the light should be incandescent, but
should the wind prove too strong for it the gas manager would substitute ordinary
burners. Mr Archer asked if the bridge was outside the council’s jurisdiction and
whether they ran the risk of the expense for the new lamps being surcharged to the
Council. The bridge was not theirs. The Clerk replied they were doing a duty to the
district and he did not think they would be surcharged. He was quite willing to go
to prison over it.
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 4th November

1977

Ghostly members of the 300-year-old Cambridge Everlasting Club failed to make their
appearance at midnight despite a vigil by Jesus College students. More than a dozen
undergraduates gathered in a room at the top of an ancient staircase to wait for
the annual reunion of the club which claimed to confer eternal membership on those
invited to join it. All members of the club are reputed to have met grisly deaths
and the room was sealed for many years as a result. Last night the student occupant
invited fellow members of the Jesus Old Contemptibles dining club to join him for
drinks but nothing happened despite the consumption of bottles of port.

c.39
1952

The people of Lode took legal possession of their village playing field when Lord
Fairhaven handed over the deeds to Mr G.G. Ingham, chairman of the Parish Council.
The playing field has football and cricket pitches, with a children’s corner
planned, covers about five acres and is regarded as one of the finest village
grounds in the area. Lord Fairhaven said: “For a long time this has been the
playing field of the village of Lode and I felt the time had come to make it as
safe as possible for ever”. It originally covered some 3½ acres but during the war
he promised some of his Home Guard friends that he would add to it if possible.

1927

The fascinating experience of lunching in Cambridge in the atmosphere of our

Elizabethan forefathers is made possible by the opening of new rooms at Messrs
Matthew’s Café in Trinity Street. They have acquired the two upper storeys of the
building & turned rooms which were formerly part of a lodging house into a charming
medieval retreat. The original beams and window frames remain as well as some
beautiful old carvings and the rooms have been furnished in the style of the
period, pains having been taken to securer faithful reproductions even down to
lamps and pewter pots.

1902

The King was driven to Cheveley Park for a day’s shooting with Colonel McCalmont.
On reaching the park gates a number of children who had assembled cheered. No
unauthorised person was admitted by the constables on duty at the gates to enter
the park. Lunch was served to the party at the house of Mr Tuffs, the head keeper.
The total bag was 2,159 of which 1,876 were pheasants. It was expected that the bag
would have been far larger. The king planted a young South African tree in Cheveley
Park in commemoration of his visit.

Tuesday 5th November

1977

Eastern Electricity introduced rota cuts in Cambridge to combat the deepening power
crisis. Disconnections are likely at any time. As many as 35,500 consumers are
likely to be without power at some time during the day. The district manager said
the situation was bound to get tighter as the work-to-rule by the engineers began
to escalate. Office staff are manning telephones 15 hours a day to keep the public
informed.

1952

The Mayor of Cambridge auctioned ten first-cross blue and white store pigs for the
good price of £7 5s. He was opening the new sales yard at Cambridge Cattle Market.
They were 12 months overdue due to difficulty in getting steel because of the
Government’s re-armament policy but were part of the council’s plans to make it one
of the best in the country. “We hope these extensions will make producers send more
cattle and livestock and thus attract buyers from all over the country”, he said.
They were awaiting Government policy on the question of an abattoir and there was a
move to start a wool market.

1927
A man was charged with stealing a sack containing one pair of men’s breeches and a
shirt from the taproom of the Three Pickerels public house at Mepal. Henry Thomas
Smith told the court he had gone to the pub with his bag, put it under a seat in
the taproom and then gone into another room. When he went for his sack it had gone.
The accused said: “I thought it was my mate’s bag so I picked it up and took it
away. When I saw Bill I found he had got his sack. It was a great mistake, and, on
my oath I never stole it”. He was fined £1.1s.8d

1902

An Ely man was summonsed for assault. Levi Denton said he was in the farmer’s field
gathering blackberries without asking his permission. Defendant, who had a large
stick, came up and asked what he was doing – but he could see for himself. He then
caught hold of his whiskers, knocked him down, kicked him and dragged him out of
the gate. Mr Denton went back into the field for his basket. The chairman: “I
observe one side of your beard is longer than the other. Was it pulled out by the
accused?” Denton: “Yes, and they are on the field now, if not picked up” But he was
on the wrong side of 50 and whiskers come out more easily at that age. The case was
dismissed

Wednesday 6th November

1977

Retailers in Cambridge city centre are angry because the power cuts threaten to
deprive them of electricity for up to three hours every Saturday afternoon. They
feel it is unfair that the same shops should face being cut off during a peak
period every week. The manager of the Abbey Boutique said it could cost traders
thousands of pounds. But Eastern Electricity say they have to think of the needs of
all their consumers and the traders would do well to see how it goes this weekend
before they start complaining

1952

The opening of a new branch of the Country Landowners’ Association for the Isle of
Ely was celebrated by a dinner at the Griffin Hotel, March attended by some 80
local landowners. Lord de Ramsey said the area contained the best farmers and worst
landlords in the country – the sinking of the Fens was enough to discourage any Fen
landlord from being too enthusiastic in improving roads or laying down concrete
yards. Landlords had been looked upon as political and fiscal whipping boys between
the wars but now had a very real opportunity of recreating rural life around them.

1927

A catastrophe was narrowly averted at Cambridge workhouse when the boiler “sprung a
leak”. Had the trouble not been promptly detected an explosion would have
inevitably occurred. This was the second occasion during the week and it had only
to be incapacitated for the laundry, heating and cooking to be at a standstill. The
trouble was caused by an accumulation of chalk deposit from the water. It would not
have occurred had the apparatus been cleaned out at regular intervals. The sooner
they got rid of the boiler and chimney the better.

1902

Albert Pell of Wilburton Manor accused the land tax collector for the parish of
Wentworth of wrongful seizure by distress of three lambs for land tax. He was the
owner of about 1,000 acres in Wilburton and in 1900 had purchased two fields in
Grunty Fen. He did not see how the land could be assessed for land tax in the
parish of Wentworth. The defendant had come on to his land and taken away three
lambs which had been sold by auction for £2 14s. But the judge found the land in
question was properly comprised in the parish of Wentworth land had been taxed for
over 100 years.

Thursday 7th November

1977

A plan by a top Cambridge police marksman to set up a smallbore weapons range in a

disused pit at Haslingfield has been turned down. More than 180 villagers signed a
petition against the firing range. South Cambs planners were told that small bore
shooting is the second most popular sport in the country and they could not have
found a more suitable applicant. But Coun Joe Brown said the site has a variety of
wild birds and flowers and is often used for walks.

1952

Much of the congestion in the central area of Cambridge could be dealt with by
providing car parks in the right places rather than the provision of extra
circulatory routes the Chief Constable told the Development Plan inquiry. Closing
of Magdalene Street would inevitably lead to an increased use of the Backs and the
proposed spine relief road would not afford relief to traffic in the city centre.
The police had received many complaints concerning the amount of noise at Drummer
Street bus station late at night. By moving it to New Square this objection would
be alleviated

1927

A verdict of accidental death was returned at an inquest into a labourer from Tan
Yard, Northampton Street, Cambridge who died as the result of injuries sustained in
a motor accident. John Mayes, cinema attendant at the Tivoli Cinema said deceased
was pulling a handcart; he was in the shafts on the river side of Chesterton Road.
He saw the left wing of the car hit the cart and the man went right under the car.
William Tams, a photographer, estimated the car’s speed at about 25 miles an hour.
PC Brown said he saw the handcart being used to lever the car up in order to lift
it off the man. The boy said “Some --- fool ran into me; don’t let mother know”.

1902

The County Council considered a resolution from Sheffield City Council in favour of
the compulsory adoption of the metric system. Alderman Fordham said there was an
enormous labour thrown upon the children of the country by the present complicated
system of weights and measures and if England were to hold its position in the
trade of the world we should co-ordinate with the system of weights that generally
obtained. The intricacies of the present system were difficult enough for
Englishmen but to the foreigner were simply inexplicable. It was bigoted
conservatism which resented a change of this kind (laughter and applause).

Friday 8th November

1977
Toddlers at Elsworth at last have their own play group building – an old motorway
site office – after months of back-breaking work by their fathers who built the
foundations and weekend by weekend installed plumbing and electricity. Previously
the children had to share the cricket pavilion but cricket and children don’t
really mix and equipment had to be carried in and out for each session.

1952

Some people at the Victoria Cinema almost believed they saw fish swimming above
their heads in the middle of the auditorium. Others found it difficult not to duck
when a cricket ball appeared to bounce right out of the screen. The cause was
something new in cinema entertainment – the three-dimensional film. At present a
special screen has to be used and audiences must wear tinted spectacles. Much still
has to be done before stereoscopic films become commonplace but Cambridge is among
the first places in England to welcome the arrival of the third dimension in the
cinema

1927

The County Council considered possible legislation to facilitate the conversion

into hard metalled roads of fen droves, green lanes or similar roads which by
reason of insufficient hard material were not fit to carry traffic at all seasons
of the year, including private roads, occupation roads and roads set aside under
Enclosure & Drainage Awards. At present it was nobody’s duty to look after such
roads and what little work was done to them was largely wasted. If the Government
was going to do anything to encourage agriculture it could not do better than to
improve these roads.

1902

Notice to Entertainment Providers. Messrs Coulson & Co of St Andrew’s Street

Cambridge have purchased one of the latest Cinematograph Machines that it is
possible to get. This machine is capable of showing 2,000 feet of pictures without
any breakages. Pictures shown are very bright and steady and any size up to 20 feet
may be obtained. It can be used either in dining room or public hall with equal
safety. Sleight of hand and other items of entertainment can also be supplied.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 11th November

1977

A congregation of 2,500 people came to Ely Cathedral to see the Rt Rev Peter Walker
inducted, installed and enthroned as Bishop causing a traffic jam as Ely’s medieval
streets took the strain of the influx of people coming to the biggest service since
Bishop Robert’s induction 13 years ago. The cathedral was packed as a procession of
10 bishops entered the building before the west end doors were firmly shut. The new
bishop raised his crook to shoulder height and struck the vast doors three times.
The echoes died down, the doors opened and with a fanfare the service commenced.

1952

“If Magdalene Street was closed several businesses would be affected between the
Round Church and Northampton Street and the compensation would be very
considerable”, the Cambridge City Surveyor told the Development Plan inquiry. The
council’s policy on widening the road was laid down in 1925. When property was due
for rebuilding the owners should set back the new building to some widened line.
Boots had agreed to demolish their frontage and set it back when the time comes for
the insurance office next door to be rebuilt.

1927

Poppies! They were everywhere. The streets of Cambridge were ablaze with them. They
were on every coat, in every conscience. Their spirit turned the town into a red
riot of remembrance. As the day wore on the poppies grew thicker. A great army of
2,000 undergraduates sold the emblems with an enthusiasm which was unbounded. Early
in the morning they were at their posts with their trays of flowers and collecting
boxes and all through the day carried on their merry money hunt. Many played the
role of highwaymen, boarding buses and holding up the traffic.

1902

W.B. Redfern told Cambridge Photographic Club that he remembered a man standing at
the corner of Parker’s Piece taking photographs of a most ghastly character. At the
time they thought they were works of art. Many of them were daguerreotypes and they
saw a sort of ghost of themselves. Now Cambridge had some of the best photographers
in the kingdom. Mr F.J. Stoakley lectured on photography in natural colours and the
Sanger Shepherd process.

Tuesday 12th November

1977

St Ives town centre needs a drastic facelift, say planners. There are 134 protected
buildings in the centre but more than 50 buildings are in need of renovation and
two major sites – Dolphin Yard and Crown Yard - are derelict and need rebuilding.
The main proposals are a new shopping precinct at Crown Yard & pedestrianisation of
White Hart Lane. A new bus terminus is proposed at the Cattle Market plus a large
new shopping complex on the Sheep Market. One development above all will have a
significant impact – the provision of a by-pass to the east.

1952

Cambridge council objected to the proposed development of land at Stourbridge

Common as a professional football ground. The land was acquired for tipping
purposes and they wished it to be zoned for storing Civil Defence materials or for
use as a lorry park. The Chief Constable said that, assuming the aim was to bring
Third Division football to Cambridge with possible crowds of 15,000 people, it
would not present much difficulty in dispersing them from Newmarket Road after a
match. The City council proposed a municipal sports ground at Trumpington Road. The
class of football envisaged would attract gates of not more than 1,000 and would
not be in the same class as Cambridge City or United football clubs.

1927

The Ouse Drainage Bill was rejected by a Joint Committee of Parliament. It was
proposed to construct training walls, embankments, sluices and deepening channels
and rate – differentially as between uplands and lowlands – the whole of the
watershed from Oxford to the Wash. It was the adequacy of even this elaborate
scheme and the apportionment of the cost which provoked strong opposition. Experts
reported that if the proposals were not carried out “the danger of the district
returning to its original condition of swamp is very real”.

1902
Newmarket councillors will ask the Great Eastern Railway Company to run a certain
number of the special trains in race week to and from the old station because of
the serious effects upon tradesmen caused by the opening of the new railway
station. In the Cesarewitch and Cambridgeshire weeks when race trains were sent to
the old station people had patronised the shops of the tradesmen on the road to the
course and that showed plainly what a loss the diversion of the traffic had been.
But the Railway Company considered their own interests before those of the town.

Wednesday 13th November

1977

A thief only got £5 for an original Constable – because an art dealer thought it
was a poor copy of the one in the Fitzwilliam Museum across the road. But it WAS
the one across the road, and the dealer only discovered that when he read about the
theft in his morning paper. He dashed to his office, checked the painting and
discovered it was the original. And while he was checking it the police walked in
on a routine enquiry. So he handed it over. The picture was grubby and finger-
marked because the thief had shopped it around five or six other dealers in
Cambridge.

1952

In swerving to avoid a dog in the road a 101 bus being driven along Green End Road,
Cambridge on Sunday morning crashed into a house. The conductress, E. Chalker, who
was taking an 11-year-old girl passenger’s fare, was slightly injured. The girl,
Marilyn Hall, was also injured when she was shot forward almost into the house. As
she was being lifted into the ambulance Marilyn asked her mother “Can we have our
fares back now? We didn’t go anywhere”.

1927

Gloucester Street workshop for disabled soldiers in Cambridge, opened by Princess

Mary last year, is represented at an exhibition at the Imperial Institute. Their
stall contains all kinds of basketwork, knitting and other things made at the
workshops. At present there are eight men working there. All are of over 60 per
cent disability through the war, and one is of over 90 per cent. The workshop can
never be a paying concern but good work is being done in enabling the men to earn
sufficient money to keep them “off the dole”. Colonel Willis, the secretary or Miss
Brearley, manageress and instructress, would be pleased to see anyone interested.

1902

On October 30th the CDN published a full list of creditors in a bankruptcy case and
paid at the usual rate charged by the Bankruptcy Court. The following day a portion
of our list was copied, without permission, by the Cambridge Independent Press and
Cambridge Chronicle. We are determined to put a stop to the unacknowledged
appropriation of our news by rival journals and both have now issued apologies.
The C.D.N. is the only paper in Cambridge which maintains a staff sufficiently
large to deal properly with events and it is intolerable that our rivals should
supplement their deficiencies by taking from our columns without permission the
news they cannot obtain for themselves.

Thursday 14th November

1977

Crowds waving flags and demonstrators waving banners greeted the Queen and Prince
Philip as they arrived to open the new Wolfson College. For the Duke there must
have been something familiar about the scene. For the second time in less than five
months he was met in the city by pouring rain and by a group campaigning for
nursery facilities in the university. He gave them a friendly wave as the car drove
past. The Queen said she had laid the foundation stone of a college at Oxford and
subsequently opened another of the same name at Cambridge. That this was possible
was proof of the generosity of the Wolfson Foundation.

1952

The visit to the University of Cambridge by the Duke of Edinburgh was enriched and
enlivened by the reception which the young consort received at every stage of his
tour. It was a “dusk and darkness” tour but the car’s interior lighting was on and
the crowds had a clear view of the slim, fair-haired Duke. The outstanding items in
the programme were the conferment of the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Law upon the
Duke at the Senate House, his opening of the new laboratory at the University
Engineering Department and his visit to the University Union where he was made an
honorary member. The Duke left a happy memory of an unassuming young man with a
ready smile and a keen and intelligent interest in all that he saw.

1927

Two of the proudest men in Cambridge are Mr H.A. Hagger and Mr F.C. Fuller who were
in charge of the stall of the Disabled Men’s Workshop, Gloucester Street, at the
Imperial Institute. It was the only stall attended by the actual men who made the
goods and the contents were completely disposed of by mid-way through the week. The
Queen bought a pair of heather-mixture socks and a waste paper basket. The Duchess
of York bought a fancy rush stool remarking “It will do for Princess Elizabeth for
the nursery”. By the time the Prince of Wales visited they had nothing left to sell
him.

1902

The report of the committee on the fire at Addenbrooke's Hospital shows that the
fire did not originate from any carelessness, but from the improper construction of
the building itself. Joists have been found extending to the interior of the
chimneys, which the committee regards as dangerous. The marvel is that it was ever
permitted. If this method of construction prevails generally then some rather
extensive alterations will have to be faced.

Friday 15th November

1977

A Cambridge tailors, James Neal Ltd, which has been in Cambridge for 107 years, has
been taken over by another tailors which is even older. The firm which has bought
out the Trumpington Street business is Ede and Ravenscroft which started trading in
1689. It specialises in ceremonial and academic robes and is a leading manufacturer
of wigs and legal wear.

1952
Ninety-one percent of the properties in the East Road area of Cambridge fell into
the “short life” or “no life” categories the Development Plan inquiry was told. The
area as a whole was described as “densely packed”. The age of the houses was about
100 years, they were generally poorly constructed and the worst property in
Cambridge lay in the area. The plan envisages using Norfolk Street as a local
shopping centre to keep East Road free for a traffic route. But Mr S.P. Yarrow,
retail grocer at 35 East Road said that if he went to Norfolk Street his turnover
would be cut by half. B.G. Reynolds of Renbro Wireless Services, East Road, said he
had one of the best positions in the area and business would go down if he moved.
They did not see why two shops in East Road should impede the flow of traffic.

1927

Remarkable scenes in which an undergraduate fainted were witnessed at the Cambridge

Union Society debate on the desirability of a wider knowledge of contraceptive
methods. Ladies were excluded from the Hall for this debate and the gallery, which
is usually used by them, was completely filled with undergraduates. A speaker
referred to the effect of an overcrowded population on the poorer people. It was
only by birth control that they had been able to keep up their standard of living;
the issue was quantity of population against quality. But the best education a
child could get was to grow up with brothers and sisters. The debate concluded that
a wider knowledge of contraceptive methods was in the interest of both morality and
social welfare.

1902

When Cambridge council decided to widen Castle Street by acquiring part of St

Giles’ churchyard the improvements necessitated the demolition of the wall and the
removal of human remains from the consecrated ground. This work is now being
proceeded with as reverently as possible. A considerable exhibition of morbid
curiosity to view what is being done has been manifested, but it has received every
discouragement from those responsible for the proper exhumation and reinterment.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 18th November

1977

Cambridgeshire’s fire authority has hidden a fire engine somewhere in Huntingdon

for the use of the town’s 13 retained firemen so they will not, it is hoped, have
to cross picket lines of their full-time colleagues when a fire call goes out. The
retained firemen have been refused service at the bar of the Firemen’s and
Ambulancemen Sports and Social Club. One said: “We are a bit disappointed. We
wholeheartedly agree with their pay-claim and would do anything we could to help,
except take strike action”

1952

A student occupying what is said to be a set of haunted rooms at Jesus College,

Cambridge may have thought ghosts from distant lands had paid him a visit when he
returned last Friday. During his absence a friend had taken some visitors from
Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos into the rooms and they were so delighted that they
decided to leave a memento in the form of messages written in Vietnamese, Cambodian
and Laotian scripts – the last appears to be a work of art, looking slightly like
Chinese script.
1927

Described as one of the finest shop sites in Cambridge, no.3 Petty Cury was offered
for sale by auction. The shop, now in the occupation of Mrs Kemp as a toy and fancy
warehouse, was offered with vacant possession and is freehold. The auctioneer
mentioned the tremendous difference that would be made to the Market Square end of
Petty Cury by the opening up of a big new shop at the corner. Bidding quickly rose
to £7,350 but did not reach the reserve price and was withdrawn. Immediately after
the auction it was sold privately.

1902

A piece of work, involving operations similar to those by which the “Tube” railway
was constructed, is on the point of being finished, having been in progress for
nearly twelve months. It is the sewer connecting the New Cemetery with the Sewage
Farm, Cambridge. Its length is over a mile and in some places it is laid to a depth
of 24 feet. The greater part of the work has been done by the “tunnelling” system
and carried out entirely by Cambridge men under the supervision of the Borough
Surveyor

Tuesday 19th November

1977

There are almost 400 properties standing vacant in Cambridge according to the Empty
Property Action Group. More than 200 are houses of which the great majority are
privately owned. There are 1,026 people on the council’s “live” waiting list and
another 1,4001 seeking council accommodation at some future date. Numerous
organisations are seeking accommodation for special groups like the College of Arts
and Technology, Women’s Aid, Fulbourn Hospital and Cyrenians Night Shelter. The
Kite and Castle Street areas share the highest concentration of empty property. The
city council are worried that the list could serve as a kind of housing register
for squatters.

1952

Mr George Hawkins, who has been the sole owner of G.P. Hawkins Ltd has announced
that he has disposed of his entire shareholding to the Cambridge Co-operative
Society. The firm was founded in 1838 in Fitzroy Street, which is still one of
their shops. At the beginning of the century the late Mr G.P. Hawkins opened a shop
and café in Sidney Street. In 1929 these premises and the adjoining site were
extensively developed resulting in the opening in 1931 of ‘The Dorothy’ as it
stands today.

1927

A fire completely destroyed the premises of Messrs Norton and Naylor, electrical
engineers, at the rear of 9 Staffordshire Street, Cambridge. It was a large wooden
structure used as a store and workshop, situated in a yard at the rear. It
contained a large quantity of electrical fittings and a car, which was garaged
there at the time was reduced to a complete wreck. This morning the derelict car
stood in a setting of charred and blistered framework whilst among the debris was
the frame of what was once a bicycle as well as numerous bulbs.
1902

The widening of Castle Street, Cambridge, by acquiring parts of St Giles’

churchyard has necessitated the demolition and transference of the churchyard wall,
as well as the removal of human remains from the consecrated ground. A considerable
exhibition of morbid curiosity to view what is being done has been manifested, but
it has received every discouragement from those responsible for the proper conduct
of exhumation and reinterment.

Wednesday 20th November

1977

A string of obsolete fire tenders standing in a Cambridge scrapyard prompted

speculation they could be brought out of retirement to relieve the hard-pressed
Green Goddesses standing in for the regular fire appliances. But the owner thinks
that the situation would have to get desperate before they could be considered:
“They have been standing round for about two years and have been partially
stripped”, he said. The main market for them is as spare parts for similar machines
still in use overseas. A few years ago he sold a large batch of the Green Goddesses
to Iceland where fishermen have converted them into large trucks for transporting
fish.

1952

Mildenhall readers are reminded that the Night Final editions of the C.D.N. is now
available at about 5.20 each evening and new arrangements have been made for its
regular delivery. Orders can be given to Mr A. Ayes of Beck Row or left at his
table inside the Bell Hotel, Mildenhall. The News contains full reports of all
local happenings in the area. Persons who have news items should contact out
Mildenhall correspondent, Mrs Mary Smith in Manor Road.

1927

Syd Greenall, the famous fen skater and professional champion of 1901, has died of
double pneumonia. He was born in Cambridgeshire 42 years ago. At Belle Vue Kennels,
Manchester, last summer, he was bitten by a dog and said, “This will kill me”.
Greenall was not only one of the world’s fastest skaters, but was also a fine
figure skater.

1902

Young England will learn with regret the death of Mr G.A. Henty. He was a soldier,
miner & war correspondent but it was as a novelist that he will go down to
posterity. He was born at Trumpington and went to Caius College, Cambridge, but
before he could take his degree an opportunity occurred which was irresistible to a
young man of his adventurous temperament. The Crimean War broke out and he received
an appointment in the Purveyor’s Department of the Army. His stories for boys
numbered considerably over eighty and he sometimes produced a book in three weeks.

Thursday 21st November

1977

In 1975 St Ives Borough Council approved in outline the development of a shopping

centre and office buildings at Crown Yard. They were asked to approve the
demolition of the Jackdaw Boutique at the entrance, an old gymnasium and the music
shop in the yard. These were among the buildings destroyed in a fire that summer.
Coun. Fred Jennings observed that historically and aesthetically the buildings were
important. “We do not want to repeat the mistake of Huntingdon where buildings of
modern idiom are crying out among buildings of an older type”, he said

1952

The new police station at the junction of White Hart Lane and Paddock Street is
the most up-to-date and first of its kind in the county. Four houses are provided
for the station staff and the office accommodation includes sergeant’s office,
charge room and patrol rooms, in addition to garage accommodation. In charge of the
new station in Sgt F.G. Brown who moves from Bottisham to take over from Sgt Miller
who has been at Soham for the last five years.

1927

The Cambridge Photographic Club exhibition contained 120 entries made in connection
with the scheme for providing photographic records of objects of interest in the
county, most of them thatched cottages which are not unlikely to disappear.
Whittlesford, Balsham and Toft provided the largest numbers, these being villages
to which excursions were organised during the summer months.

1902

A serious accident occurred at Hyde Park Corner, Cambridge. Two horse attached to a
farm cart became restive when passing a flock of sheep and dashed off at great
speed in the direction of the shelter at the corner of Lensfield Road. An old man
who was crossing the road was knocked down and considerably injured. The cart came
violently into contact with the shelter, the railings around the entrance to the
public convenience were dislodged and the stonework supporting them broken in
several places.

Friday 22nd November

1977

St Ives has more reason than most towns to be wary over the firemen’s strike. When
fire broke out in Crown Yard in the summer of 1975 it served as a grim reminder of
past blazes. In 1680 a large part of the town was completely destroyed in a
disastrous blaze and nine years earlier a fire started in a malthouse at the end of
White Hart Lane, crossed the Market Place east of Bridge Street and destroyed all
the houses to the river.

1952

South Cambs R.D.C. decided to close all the waiting lists of applicants for
tenancies of hutments at Fowlmere. This came as a result of a resolution from the
Parish Council who asked them to allow no new persons to reside in the camps and to
pull down each hut or portion of a hut as soon as it was vacated. Coun Murfitt
spoke against closure: “We do not want to see people living under such conditions
but until we have built enough houses we should not pull these huts down”. But it
was costing £30 a hut to keep out the rain and this ‘fantastic’ expenditure should
be used to help build other houses and not for bolstering up huts which were not
fit for human habitation.

1927

The awkward position of the members of the Ouse Drainage Board on account of the
rejection of the Drainage Bill led to lengthy discussions. The uplander, the
fenlander and the lowlander were opposed to that Bill, the forces against it must
have been tremendous and the rejection was a surprise to the Government officials
who drafted it. They hoped that the new Bill that came forward would be from the
fen people themselves, the trouble with the last one was that it came too much from
above

1902

Unfortunately the Cambridge Omnibus Company have been unable to find a purchaser
for their business as a going concern and their horses, omnibuses etc had to be
sold at their stables in Chesterton Road. A two-horse omnibus to carry 26
passengers fitted with garden seats on the top sold for 20 guineas. Buses by the
‘Star Omnibus Company’ were not in such good condition and realised £10 while
others went for as low a sum as £4.10s. The one-horse ‘buses did not sell for much
but a four-horse charabanc, “The Cambridge Belle” sold for 62 guineas to Mr Ellis
Merry. Prices for horses dropped to as low as three guineas.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 25th November

1977

The church bells at Ashwell will ring out whenever there is a fire to alert the
newly-formed amateur firefighting force. Men in the village offered to take on the
job at a special meeting called by the parish council. They were worried that the
Army would not get to the village in time if fire broke out and if able-bodied men
were on call they could stop a small fire and prevent it from getting bigger. A
lorry loaded with sheets, hoses, stretchers and shovels will be positioned near the
Bluegates Dairy and farmers who have water tankers agreed to keep them full.

1952

South Cambs RDC decided they were not responsible for cleaning out the river Mel
near Sheene Farm and refused a request from Meldreth parish council to take action
which would prevent the flooding of the road. Coun Pepper said: “It is common
knowledge that houses are flooded and drainage floats about the gardens, roads are
flooded and travel becomes dangerous. The responsibility lies fairly and squarely
upon this council”. But Coun Murfitt said the Council was not responsible for
flooding.

1927

It was a memorable day in the history of St John’s Church, Hills Road, Cambridge
with the opening of the new Parish Hall and Sunday School. The hall, which is
dedicated chiefly to the use of young people, is a fine building of red brick and
is situated on the site of the old Mission Church in Blinco Grove. The Women’s
Union have made themselves responsible for the porch and entrance, raising £130 &
money for the electric light has been raised by Miss Gwatken and her Bible Class.
1902

Valuable licensed premises for sale. In Sutton: the brick and slated beer house
known by the sign of “Exhibition Inn” in Painter’s Lane, containing tailor’s shop
and two bedrooms, stable and iron-roofed open hovel. In Hillrow: the fully-licensed
public house known as “Two Pot House” containing tap room and six bedrooms,
thatched stables and timber closet. In Haddenham: the beer house known by the sign
of “The White Lion” in Station Road.

Tuesday 26th November

1977

A Huntingdon inquest returned an accident verdict on the deaths of the crew of a

Canberra jet plane that crashed on Oxmoor and on the three children who were
trapped when their homes were turned into an inferno. At the time the plane was
carrying out a practice overshoot of RAF Wyton which involved approaching the
runway with one of the engines throttled back to simulate engine failure.
Huntingdon MP, Sir David Renton, said the RAF must stop practising such engine
failures over built-up areas & called for greater co-operation with the RAF about
building homes under flightpaths.

1952

Edward Lainson of Premier Travel told the Development Plan Inquiry that it would be
highly undesirable to move the bus station from Drummer Street to New Square.
Access would be difficult and the crossing of Emmanuel Road by a large number of
people would constitute a danger. It would cause congestion because a lot of people
who found the buses handy would start using their cars.

1927

Chesterton RDC received the layout submitted by Cambridge Estates Ltd for a new
building estate in the parish of Impington. They had acquired 30 acres of land. The
estate a considerable frontage to Arbury Road. It could be drained mainly into
Milton Road by a new road to be called Hurst Park Avenue. It would be developed
uniformly on garden suburb lines with wide roads & grass verges.

1902

Mr W.B. Redfern, the managing director of the New Theatre Company, Cambridge, is an
attractive and familiar personality. He has completed twenty years of continuous
theatrical management, which constitutes a record. The theatre in Cambridge has had
to struggle hard for recognition and toleration; it has had to combat opposition to
make its way to favour in the minds of those most ignorant of its possibilities. He
has won almost all – we say ‘almost’ because there still lurk in the minds of
reactionary and antiquated brains some feelings of prejudice which the theatre had
yet to overcome.

Wednesday 27th November

1977

A Cambridge genetics student has been refused a place in the university’s late-
night firewatch patrols, because she is a woman. But after she threatened to take
the university before an industrial tribunal unless she is allowed to apply for the
£16-a-night job an official said the policy was being reconsidered, adding: “At the
time we started these patrols we did not think it would be right to subject young
ladies to walking around all night”. The patrol involves walking around different
university sites and anybody who was worried by the prospect would not apply in the
first place

1952

There was confirmation from Newmarket of the Cambridge flying saucer report. Mr J.
Beirne reported seeing ‘a definite circular object while cycling along Madingley
Road, Cambridge. Now comes a report from a bus conductor of seeing a ‘bright cigar-
shaped object’ flying at great speed at Newmarket. It gave out an orange-coloured
tint and was fire by three small tappets at the rear. There have been isolated
cases of practical demonstrations of guided missiles being carried out in the
Mildenhall area and on the Norfolk coast. These guided weapons are known to be
capable of speeds over 2,000 m.p.h.

1927

A Cottenham drain had got into a very bad condition and was an offence, councillors
heard. The matter had been raised in 1913 when the owner of the house was
prosecuted and the magistrates had decided the drain was a sewer. At Ivatt Street
there was a main road and a private street and two blocks of six houses nearby.
Every pair of houses had a gully into which they threw refuse and that drained into
the cesspool. The drain had got into a very bad condition and was an offence to all
12 houses, but the owner declined to take any steps.

1902

At Cambridge court Mr Redfern, director of the New Theatre, renewed application for
licences to allow two children, aged 10 and nine, to perform at the theatre with Mr
Edward Terry’s company. The children’s performance was not an acrobatic one; they
simply came on and had some lines to repeat. They were under the watchful eye of a
governess and their parents were travelling with the company which was on tour and
acting every night. It was not unusual for the Government inspector to run down
from Norwich to visit theatres in which children were acting and had always been
satisfied.

Thursday 28th November

1977

A suggestion that the controversial punk rock group, the Sex Pistols, should visit
Cambridge has been turned down by city council officials who fear they would
attract the wrong sort of clientele. All punk rock groups who appear in council
buildings should be of the moderate and non-controversial kind. An agency had
suggested that they could perform in a tent on Midsummer Common.

1952

Mr George Hawkins has disposed of his holdings in the firm of G.P. Hawkins Ltd to
the Cambridge Co-operative Society and a new company has been formed. But he has
insisted that ‘The Dorothy’ will continue on the same lines as in the past and did
not agree to the change-over until given that assurance. Running a catering
establishment of this size is no easy task, made greater during the war when he was
also the Regional Bread Officer for the Ministry of Food.

1927

The Isle of Ely County Council intends shortly to remove the constable stationed at
Coveney to Wimblington and the police station would be abolished. The Coveney beat
would then be amalgamated with Witchford. They discussed suggestions that the Isle
and Huntingdonshire police forces should be amalgamated, but they did not know
whether one Chief Constable could be able to give the same attention to two
counties as he had given in one. The County Medical Officer preferred to have a
Smith Premier typewriter to any British make he had seen, but Coun. Buswell said it
would not do.

1902

A fire broke out in a stack of oats and a stack of thousand-head at Parish’s farm
in Littlebury and the outlook became serious. There was a lack of water which was
not accessible nearer than the river Granta and an unusual length of hose was
required by the fire brigades. Then on Friday night a fire broke out at the rear of
the Falcon Inn, Littlebury. A tank was placed in the middle of the village into
which the Walden Brigade pumped water from the river while the Great Chesterford
men pumped it on to the burning premises. Great consternation prevailed among the
inhabitants who, from many cottages, removed all their goods into the street. The
back portion of the Falcon Inn was damaged and the buildings in the yard destroyed.

Friday 29th November

1977

Cambridge City Council is to think again about plans to sell the mid 17th-century
Abbey House in Abbey Road. The Folk Museum Trustees had given the ancient house to
the city council only four years ago in the hope they would look after it. Coun
Warren said: “It is shameful if the council is now considering selling the house
and keeping the money itself.” Coun John Powley said that money to repair the
property was limited and the best course would be to sell it to the person living
there and let him carry out repair working costing thousands of pounds.

1952

The County Council have designs on a quarter of an acre of smallholdings let to

Redgate Nurseries on the corner of Hick’s Lane and Cambridge Road Girton. It is
proposed to establish a police station and house on the site which would give
adequate supervision of the Huntingdon Road – a black spot for accidents in the
past. The County Police force has been undermanned since the war and better
accommodation would attract more recruits. The constable at Girton was responsible
for policing the parishes of Girton, Oakington and Westwick. A council house was
not suitable; if a constable had to detain a prisoner there was only the living
room of the house available.

1927

The annual concert and prize distribution of Slepe Hall School took place in the
Corn Exchange, St Ives when a large gathering enjoyed a delightful programme of
music provided by the staff and pupils. The certificates and prizes won by the
girls were distributed by the Principal of Homerton College. She urged parents not
to withdraw their girls, whenever possible, until the end of their school time, as
a completed education was more necessary than ever in the new world and urged the
girls to choose something for their future life which might be to them a vocation,
no matter how bold such an enterprise might seem.

1902

The well known fully-licensed Hoop Hotel, Bridge Street, Cambridge was offered to
public auction. The establishment has had a long career, having been established in
1729, and was referred to by Wordsworth – “And at ‘The Hoop’ alighted, Famous Inn”.
Bidding commenced at £2,000 and rose to £4,000 at which figure the property was
withdrawn.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 7th October

1977

The Cambridge department store Laurie and McConnal in Fitzroy Street is to close in
December. Indecision over plans for the Kite area redevelopment is the reason, said
Mr Anthony Frais. “We have tried everything we know to get something moving in the
Kite, and while the council is now at last seeing sense we cannot afford to wait
the two years before anything actually happens. As a small family company are
paying penal rates.” The business was established nearly 100 years ago.

1952

Oakington Parish Council has withdrawn their objection to the building of a new
road to replace the one crossing the airfield which has been closed. They had
claimed the scheme would be a waste of public money, the road would be of no use to
Oakington and the route would be a public danger. The Air Ministry said the road
would be lowered about two feet to ensure “flying clearance”

1927

Hildersham inhabitants turned out in force to hear the Mayor of Cambridge, J.H.
Conder, talk of the village as he remembered it 50 years ago. There used to be a
parish herdsman as the cows belonging to various people all went into a common
herd. A great fire had broken out in two places at once. The Rectory farm
buildings, tithe barn and Manor Farm barn were burnt down. A large house called the
“Rookery” was standing empty and was pulled down so the bricks could be taken to
build a new barn. This was a great pity because the house was a very fine one.

1902

In the centre of Cambridge a man will pay any price in reason for the tobacco which
appeals most to his palate. But in other quarters, such as Mill Road where the
small shopkeeper thrives and people like a lot for their money a great quantity of
cigarette packets containing showy photographs and alluring coupons have been sold.
Mr Banyard of East Road, Cambridge says customers gave over their regular brands
for those with the coupons but the demand was chiefly in cheap cigarettes. But
Cambridge undergraduates have not descended to packs of Tabs, or even to tu-penny-
ha’-penny Guinea Gold.

Tuesday 8th October

1977

The sudden news of Laurie’s closure has come as a shock to the City Council team
involved in drawing up the Kite plans. Council leader, John Powley, said he was
“very sorry indeed” and could well understand their frustration at the indecision.
“Gradual renewal of the are, as some people want, just will not happen and will
lead to a speedy decline of the whole area. A satisfactory scheme must be produced
as speedily as possible. Constant delays are not good for the area, for the people
of the city, or for Cambridge as a whole”.

1952

Former members of the RAF Motor Transport Unit travelled to Cambridge to dine at
the Lion Hotel and talk of their wartime Cambridge billet – King’s College. They
specialised in large-scale Service “removals”, such as shifting an entire service
from one place to another. Early one morning a fleet of 32-seater coaches left the
Backs in the company of a self-contained mobile feeding lorry and sped to a
smouldering Coventry where emergency meals were prepared and served to the
homeless. Thereafter the coaches helped provide a public transport service for them

1927

Cambridge Photographic Club had made progress with the photographic survey of the
county and over 100 prints were produced. There was still a great deal to be done
and this should be regarded as one of the most important parts of the club’s work.
A collection of photographs of Cambridge was exhibited in the Public Library. The
East Anglian Federation had held its summer meeting in Cambridge, but the weather
was not in favour of photography.

1902

The police report on the Addenbrooke's Hospital fire says they found a man at the
top of a ladder with his head through the trap door leading to the roof of Victoria
Ward, using a small hosepipe. Shortly afterwards the firemen arrived and after much
trouble, mainly through the low pressure of water, got to work, but could not
extinguish the flames before the roof and contents of Victoria Ward were destroyed.
Police assisted to maintain order, regulate the traffic in Trumpington Street where
there was a large crowd, and remove and restore patients, many of whom were in a
fainting condition.

Wednesday 9th October

1977

The news that Laurie and McConnal’s department store is closing will have come as a
surprise to most people. But to anyone who regularly used the store it was only a
question of time before they succumbed to the inevitable. Even at the height of the
shopping day you could be the only potential customer in any one department. It had
50,000 sq ft of selling space, spread over five floors to service, heat, decorate
and keep full of merchandise and the passing trade had dropped off dramatically as
so many houses have been knocked down and food shops have disappeared from the Kite
area.
1952

Cherry Hinton church held a special thanksgiving service for the completion of
repair work. The tower roof has been renewed and a new steel bell frame installed;
the bells have been tuned and rehung and the belfry floor renewed. All the woodwork
of the church has been treated against death watch beetle and woodworm and much of
the roof re-tiled. The bells then rang out for the first time in four years.

1927

The Medical Officer told Ely Guardians he had nowhere at the Institution to put
infectious cases. Recently they had a refractory tramp in one ward, two lunatics
under observation, both of whom required extra assistance, and had no means of
isolating them. He had one case in the bathroom and another in the general ward,
which upset the inmates. It was illegal to keep children in the House and some
years ago they had turned the isolation hospital into a children’s home which now
housed 11 children and they might get an influx of two families with five or six in
each.

1902

Addenbrooke's Hospital Governors heard the roof over Victoria Ward has been
completely destroyed by the fire and the adjoining corridor is partially so. The
plaster of the walls of the ward was damaged and the wards themselves are doubtless
injured. The floor has been partially damaged. The beds, a quantity of bedding,
linen, tables, chairs and other furniture have been destroyed or damaged and the
ceiling of the Hatton Ward is also injured by water, so much that it will have to
be taken down. All the property is insured.

Thursday 10th October

1977

Hopes of bringing mains sewerage connections to isolated villages are no nearer

being realised. The only exception being allowed by the Anglian Water Authority
arises when the present conditions offer a health hazard. Coun Jack Warren said:
“Conditions have got to be intolerable before we will do anything. I think we are a
really stodgy lot. Sewage has got to be coming out of the taps before we will do
anything”. But the chairman said it was the Department of the Environment which had
clamped down on pioneer rural schemes.

1952

One of these days while in session at the annual meeting at Clayhithe the
Conservators of the Cam might be let down – badly and literally. The chairs in the
Board Room are so rotted and worm-eaten that they are no longer safe to sit on. The
large mahogany table running the length of the room is affected too. So are the
floorboards and other parts of the house. Their launch, Richwing, was kept afloat
by tar and canvas and it was necessary to take it out of the water and re-plank
her.

1927

A fire broke out in the stackyard at Further Farm, Stretham fen and eight were
totally destroyed. Considerable difficulty was experienced in getting the fire
engine to the farm owing to the condition of the drove, but with the help of three
horses from the farm this was accomplished. Mr F. Oakey drove from Ely in his motor
and arrived before the firemen. He dashed into the flames and drove out a
practically red hot tractor from between the blazing stacks into a place of safety.
Luckily a good supply of water was available from the dykes which had been filled
by opening the dam at Morton’s Farm.
1902

Earl Grey’s Public House Trust movement is spreading to Cambridgeshire. Moderate

temperance advocates see in a public house specially organised to push the sale of
food and non-intoxicants, but supplying drink to those who desire it, one of the
best and most certain means of lessening the terrible amount of excessive drinking
which unhappily prevails in this country. The managers have absolutely no
financial interest in the sale of drink which strikes at the root of an abuse which
goes on far too extensively – the supplying with drink of men, who if not
absolutely drunk, have obviously had more than is good for them.

Friday 11th October

1977

More shops in the Kite area will be forced to close unless something is done
quickly to rejuvenate the area. A number of stores have been teetering on the brink
for some time and could go out of business. This has been caused by all the little
ginger groups, all pushing for their own things. They hack and maul among
themselves and all they succeed in doing is to cause the sort of intolerable
position that Lauries found itself in. It is all very well saying the Kite should
stay exactly as it is. But it cannot. It has changed markedly over the years and is
still changing. It either has to be redeveloped in some fashion, or it dies.

1952

If some bright young first-year Freshman had not done some checking up, 1,200
Cambridge undergraduates might now be on the carpet for trampling on the Senate
House lawn. New undergraduates found in their room a printed notice inviting them
to hear an address by the “University Chamberlain” – but it was a hoax, there is no
such office. The University Registrary was besieged with telephone inquiries and
ordered the closing of the gates. Hundreds gathered around the Senate House curious
to see what would happen but two hefty specimens of City Police proceeded to keep
the sight-seers moving. Thus fizzled out the Freshman’s Hoax, 1952 version.

1927

Members of Cambridge Corporation paid a visit to the gasworks to see for themselves
how gas is produced. They were greatly impressed. The Mayor said: “Some of us have
grown up in the belief that essential services should belong to the public but no
matter who owns them when we have efficient managers things are done well”. The
Vice-chairman of the Gas Company said that the Town Council and the Gas Company
both exist to produce gas. “It may be that the Town Council gas is more lethal than
ours!”

1902

A Newmarket man was summoned for betting on the highway at Exning. PC Clark said he
saw defendant came out of the Cherrytree Inn and walk up and down. People came up
and slips of paper were given to him. He asked defendant for the slips and, after
the names of the horses had been entered into a book, they were handed to him. In
mitigation the man said he had acted in ignorance of the law – proved by the fact
he had been making bets in the face of the policeman. This and the fact that
betting was carried on by a large majority of the people of Newmarket led him to
believe he had done nothing wrong. He was fined 2s 6d with 7s 6d costs.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 15th October

1977

The latest and controversial proposals for rebuilding the Kite area of Cambridge
took another step along the long road to becoming reality when the city council
accepted them in principle as a basis for discussion with a number of companies
interested in financing the project. It took almost two hours of debate – which at
times became heated and bitter – to reach the decision. Supporters warned against
further delays; Coun Gough Goodman said “Filibustering in the council chamber has
resulted in the loss of jobs for many people and the loss of a splendid business,
Laurie & McConnal”

1952

Seven thousand Cambridge television viewers are promised almost perfect reception
if official sanction is received for a new T.V. broadcasting station to open early
in the New Year. The original BBC signal will be picked up on a 50-foot-high aerial
on the “Gogs” and beamed down on the city. John Peak, manager of Peak’s King Street
television service, the sponsors of the scheme said: “Viewers will receive an
almost unmarred signal well in time for the Coronation”. The large “H” aerial now
on chimney-pots would no longer be necessary; instead a small rod can be hung from
the bedroom window.

1927

No woman has photographed more Royalty or distinguished people than Miss Olive
Edis, the well-known expert in the production of monochrome and colour photography.
She has her third annual exhibition in Cambridge, although she has worked in the
town for some 20 years. One wall has a display of portraits of well-known Cambridge
people but the greatest attraction will be the colour photography of local scenes

1902

Sir – Canterbury Road, Chesterton was made by ourselves, as owners, at a cost of

£90, in the anticipation at the Council would take it over, which they promised to
do. We have asked them several times to do so and the only excuse they make is that
it must be steam rolled. We have had it rolled. We have worked in every way to
conform to their orders and the only reason we have placed posts across the road is
to protect and preserve the road from being cut up by vehicular traffic – J.
Piddock, H. Riseley, E. Wonfor

Tuesday 16th October

Stapleford Parish Council reaffirmed that it was willing to run the village library
with voluntary helpers if it would result in it being saved. The library, which
occupies a room in the school, is open for eight hours a week and its one of eight
threatened with closure by the County Council. But the County Librarian says this
could not be considered because it would cause trouble with the trade union.

1952

Six coachloads of people travelled from Barrington to the Victoria Restaurant,

Cambridge to have dinner. They were employees of Eastwoods Cement Ltd who were
celebrating the 25th anniversary of the opening of the works. Each guest went home
with a gift – a silver hairbrush for the men, a powder compact for the ladies. Some
of the cement workers missed the dinner through having to be on duty. They will be
treated to another function later and a telegram of good wishes was sent to them on
Saturday night.

1927

The Prime Minister is expected to visit Barrington to open the new cement works. A
distinguished company of about 100 will journey from London by special saloon
carriages and the light railway direct to the works. The new works are already
turning out great quantities of cement and when the second kiln is complete will be
one of the largest cement works north of the Thames. About 200 men will be employed
there permanently and it is expected that from a country village Barrington soon
will be transformed into something like a small industrial town

1902

The proprietors of the CDN also publish the “Ely Weekly Guardian” and is
represented in Ely by a reporter who devotes his whole time to our service. Messrs
Sharman and Co publish the “City of Ely Standard” which competes in the surrounding
district. During the past few months large quantities of news have been taken from
the CDN and published in their paper. Now we have received a letter from Mr A.
Sharman to say he has requested his staff to refrain from “scissors and paste” in
future.

Wednesday 17th October

Mitchams, the Cambridge department store, is to close after 68 years. Mr Charles

Mitcham converted a house in 1909 and opened up the store. It spread into adjoining
buildings and today sells almost everything but furniture. The shop was sold when
Mr Mitcham died during the war and was taken over two months ago by a Manchester-
based insurance group. The manager said: “It is more than just a shop closing. It
is part of the city about to vanish”

1952

Two hundred people gathered around the doorway of the new Memorial Hall of Cherry
Hinton Free Church. In their midst stood the bricklayers and electricians, the
carpenters and the painters who had built it. And there were the ladies who had
made the tea. Churchgoers have built it with their own hands. It was a memorial to
all those in the church who had played their part in the last war: on the civilian
as well as on the military field of battle. It was a memorial to the living as well
as to the dead.

1927

Sir – I see that Mr Baldwin is so delighted to find an undertaking which is

employing more men rather than turning them off, that he is coming to open the new
cement works in Barrington. I wonder if he will ask where the 200 men who are going
to be employed are to be housed. I doubt if 20 houses have been build in
neighbouring villages since the war and there is a long waiting list of people not
connected with the works. A large proportion of the men at present employed are
being lodged in houses where there is no proper accommodation for them, and if
another hundred men are to be taken on shortly the congestion will be appalling –
G.T. Garratt, Barrington

1902

The villagers of Girton hope to conclude their celebration of the Coronation in

November. The commemorative festivities have been taking place by instalments. Two
celebrations are now things of the past. It is singular that neither of them
coincided with the ceremony the memory of which they were meant to perpetuate. On
the original date a tea was held but subsequently no time could be spared for
anything less serious that the harvest. Wet weather accounts for the third
postponement until “the Fifth” when the villagers will see a fireworks display and
then at last Girton’s Coronation festivities will be over

Thursday 18th October

1977

Prime Minister, Jim Callaghan, arrived in Cambridge to address a Labour Party

Conference in the Guildhall and talk to the Fabian Society in the Union Society
building. Leaders of the city’s Sidewalk Surfers skateboarding group waiting
outside got no promises of support for their skateboard rink campaign. Over lunch
local Labour Party leaders – including Mrs Janet Jones talked of next year’s rate
support grant settlement for the county. In his speech Mr Callaghan welcomed
President Carter’s willingness to reduce nuclear weapons and said he sought a
comprehensive ban on nuclear explosions

1952

The Cambridge Town Clerk has received 44 applications from would-be purchasers of
council houses from tenants of pre-war and post-war houses. Some come from tenants
who wish to buy Council premises other than those in which they already reside. The
Council recommends that pre-war houses be sold only to sitting tenants, the price
to be the replacement value. The Government has made it quite clear it encouraged
house ownership but it was up to each local authority whether they wished to sell
their houses.

1927

No longer does the Oxford or Cambridge “Bobby” walk about in fear of his life and
his helmet, no longer does the local publican wax fat on healthy young thirsts and
the tailor bemoan bad trade. Undergraduates are changing their “manners”. The
“sloshing” of policemen is out of fashion. Roaring ribald songs between great
draughts of ale is simply not “done”. Nowadays slovenliness in dress is revolting.
This is the age of “refinement”. Nowadays the undergraduate “works off” high
spirits by “rushing about the country on wheels” – so said the Warden of All Soul’s
College, Oxford

1902

In consequent of the strike amongst the coal workers in the United States large
quantities are being exported from this country to the benefit of the colliery
owners but to the detriment of the home consumers. October is a month in which the
reoccupation of the colleges and the advent of cold weather create an immense
demand for coal in Cambridge but the quantity at the depots in the Great Eastern
district are somewhat below the average. Wood blocks which develop an enormous
quantity of smoke & smoulder in a depressing manner now command a quicker sale than
before.

Friday 19th October

The Prime Minister, Jim Callaghan, has privately assured Cambridge Labour Party
leaders that the County Council’s financial difficulties will be sorted out –
probably over a two-year period. Substantial Government financial help is on the
way to stop massive cuts in council services – including the sacking of nearly 200
teachers. This follows cuts of more than £[POUND]10 million in Government aid this
year

1952

In the shadow of 15-feet-high brightly coloured maps of the proposed new City-of-
Cambridge-to-be, nearly 100 barristers, solicitors and officials assembled at the
Senate House for the opening of the Public Inquiry into the County Development
Plan. Nearly 500 seats have been set out for objectors and for the public. Four
women shorthand writers are on duty to compile a complete record of every word
uttered in the course of the proceedings. The Inquiry will continue at the Senate
House until Friday and then transfer to Shire Hall.

1927

The Ely coroner sat for four hours at the Red Lion, Stretham to inquire into the
death of two men who met with a tragic end whilst motor cycling to their homes. The
constable at Wilburton said he had received complaints respecting a motor lorry
stationary on the Wilburton Road. He made an examination of the rear lamp, which
was not alight so he obtained some oil and lit the lamp. Mr Warren later asked for
permission to go and put some lights on it. Dr Charles Howe of Haddenham said he
received a telephone message that two men had run into a stationary lorry and found
the bodies lying on the grass beside the road.

1902

A Bottisham farmer was summonsed for unlawfully killing a bustard. His cowman saw a
bird walking about among the cabbages and shot it. He gave it to the farmer who,
not knowing what it was and whether it was good for food, took it to Mr Stanley’s
at Cambridge who said he thought it was a sort of turkey. It was sent to be stuffed
at Mr Farren’s who identified it as a great bustard, about two years old, worth
about £20. The Chief Constable said a bird of this kind had been seen at Swaffham
Fen and he had 30 placards with reference to its protection posted up. The man was
fined £2
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 21st October

1977

Undergraduates at Jesus College, Cambridge, are to keep watch in an ancient room

for ghostly happenings on the night of All Souls. They will be on the look-out for
the seven members of the college’s reputed Everlasting Club, formed in 1738 which
conferred eternal membership. Once a year the members promised to return to their
original meeting room. But one by one they died. In 1766 the last surviving member
sat down for annual cerebration with six empty chairs for his deceased colleagues.
From 10 until midnight there was a ‘hideous uproar’ in the room after which he was
found dead.
1952

Wilburton parents signed a petition against proposals to convert the Manor of

Wilburton into a residential school for educationally sub-normal children. The
present village school was black-listed as far back as 1912 and condemned in 1937
so a new school was long overdue. Its position on the main street which carried an
incessant stream of traffic constituted a daily danger to the children. The Manor
standing at the end of a long drive was part of the heritage of the village and
could be adapted to make an ideal and beautiful school for village children.

1927

Considerable progress has been made with the restoration work in old buildings at
Buckden Palace, partly demolished many years ago. The destroyed north wing of the
Gate House is now to a great extent rebuilt on the old foundation. The material
used is largely old, having come from Stanwick Hall, Yorkshire, the lately
demolished house of the Duke of Devonshire.

1902

The New Edisonograph Animated Pictures were presented for the first time in
Cambridge. They are by far the best yet seen, being considerably larger than usual
and without any flicker. The Coronation pictures are exceptionally clear and very
vivid are the pictures of the Prince and Princess of Wales visiting the dinners to
the poor in London. For those sentimentally inclined nothing can be finer than the
“Soldier’s Return from the War” – to find the house to let and his mother in the
Workhouse. The band of the University Volunteers is engaged and add much to the
evening by their appropriate music. The pictures will be changed nightly and
animated scenes of Cambridge streets will be presented.

Tuesday 22nd October

1977

The Three Horseshoes at Stapleford, which had been closed since April 1976 is gone
forever. And in its place is a completely new pub, The Longbow. Only the exterior
of the building remains the same, inside are all the comforts of a modern
establishment. Initially they are stocking Truman Crown, Whitbread Trophy and
Whitbread “BB” mild on draught but intend to supply according to local demand.

1952

I popped in at the University Senate House to see how the County Development Plan
Inquiry was going and to watch history in the making. For never before has the
Senate House been thrown open for the public to come and go at will.
Representatives of County and City faced each other in serried ranks and aloft in
the balcony undergraduates and others looked down upon the historic scene. We know
the University are vitally concerned in this great scheme but their willingness to
allow its use is further evidence of the very friendly relationship now existing
between Town and Gown

1927

A slight failure occurred at one of the Electricity Supply Company substations and
for about half-an-hour people living in Mill Road, Cambridge and not equipped with
gas were feeling their way in the darkness. Temporary confusion reigned at the
Gwydir Street baths where the weekly ablutions were being performed. All the baths
were occupied and the bathers found themselves in a somewhat awkward predicament.
One gentleman spent some time looking for the soap. But the situation was overcome
by the prompt action of one of the attendants who sped to a nearby shop and
purchased some candles.

1902

At Cambridge Photographic Club the President (Dr Bansall) said pictorial work – by
which he meant the making of pictures and not “fuzzygraphs” - was one of the most
delightful branches of their art. It was easy to obtain a really high-class
portrait for a reasonable sum of money, but the re-toucher polished away all the
defects of the sitter’s face. Cambridge was fortunate in having a first-rate colour
photographer in Mr Stoakley who would give a demonstration of what he had done in
this wonderfully interesting work.

Wednesday 23rd October

1977

Structure plan ideas for channelling Cambridge expansion population into the
“pleasant little villages” of Milton and Waterbeach over the next 15 years have
been described as “completely abhorrent” by Coun Paddy Crossman. He doubted that
the population increase during the next 20 years would be anywhere near as high as
the 12,800 predicted by the planners. Among the proposals is one to permit Milton
(pop 1,400) to expand to 6,000 and to allow for industrial development in the
village to provide jobs. Waterbeach is earmarked for some development, though on a
much smaller scale.

1952

The County Development Plan public inquiry took a dramatic turn when Magdalene
College announced it had decided to oppose proposals to widen Magdalene Street. The
“donnish mind” did not often descend to take part in proceedings of this kind but
this is a “bad plan and would be a disaster both to the University and the City of
Cambridge”, their counsel said. “You should not have motor traffic moving so fast
that the lives of pedestrians and motorists are imperilled”. Everyone wants
Cambridge to remain a place in which the pedestrian, the cyclist and the motorist
are more on less on an equal footing.

1927

The new ballroom in the University Arms Hotel, Cambridge, with is delightful
atmosphere, its perfect spring floor and super-modern lighting, welcomed the first
of its dancing parties to a first-class dinner-dance equal in every way to the
Savoy Hotel or any other London night-club. Splendidly rehearsed the Cambridge
University Arms Hotel Band played all the latest music from London and New York. It
was supplied by Stanley Miller whose Cantabrigians have already made good
impressions on the Cambridge public

1902

The manager of the Cambridge Tramways Company was summoned for damaging, injuring
and spoiling the public convenience situated at Hyde Park Corner by scribbling on
the woodwork with a pencil, thereby doing damage to the amount of 2s. After looking
round to see if the custodian, Mr Thompson, was there he had scribbled “Thompson,
old pig” on the woodwork.
Thursday 24th October

1977

Take the dull and empty expanse of East Road roundabout in Cambridge, combine it
with the recent clamour for a city skateboard park and the result is a plan which
has just won Cambridge architect Keith Garbett and artist Jon Harris first place in
a national competition. The idea incorporates a “pipe” with a viewing platform
above where spectators can watch skateboarders emerge from a tunnel, a bowl with an
up-and-down return slope and a slalom slope where skateboarders can weave in and
out of rubber bollards. The Mayor said he would be happy to see the plan go before
council officials for consideration but would it attract children to a busy
junction and might impede its real purpose which is to let people cross the road
safely

1952

A hundred years ago Girton village formed a cricket club. Though they won many
games they never had any thing tangible to show for their success until this year
when they won the Cambs Senior League Championship. On Saturday, with the cup
taking pride of place on the top table at the celebration dinner held in the
Women’s Institute Hall, more than 60 players and supporters heard of the splendid
spirit and sportsmanship which dominated the club.

1927

Cambridge Co-operative Society opened its new model dairy at Sleaford Street. The
manager, Mr J. Quincey said they were now retailing nearly 400 gallons a day. They
served the purest and cleanest milk possible. “People say they want milk straight
from the cow. But if they only saw the cleaning machine when it was taken to pieces
it would surprise and probably stagger them to know the filth and dirt which came
from the milk, even though they were getting the best milk from clean producers”.

1902

Oliver St John of the Phoenix Brewery, Little Shelford, brewer trading as Saunders
and Co applied for discharge from bankruptcy. In 1887 he had started as a brewer in
Whittlesford, purchasing the business as a going concern. In 1892 he left, having
lost the whole of his capital and became tenant of a brewery at Lt Shelford,
borrowing from his brother. In 1892 he gave a bill of sale in favour of his brother
for the plant, barrels and effects but next year was pressed by other creditors.

Friday 25th October

1977

Cliff Richard, pop superstar and hot gospeller, fervently preached a message to the
converted during his first Cambridge concert for many years. Unfortunately the
message was hammered home between every song. He talks about his religious beliefs
so much that I was bored beyond embarrassment. Why couldn’t he just sing? He
delivered Elvis’ “Heartbreak Hotel” and his own unforgettable early hit, “Living
Doll” and just before the end really started rockin’ up a storm with two heavy beat
numbers, real vintage Richard rock ‘n’ roll.

1952
Proposals for the bus station at Drummer Street, Cambridge, were discussed at the
Planning Inquiry. The bus company preferred a station to be sited on New Square
which was double the area of Drummer Street. But would passengers agree – and they
are entitled to be considered sometimes. Half to two-thirds would use Emmanuel
Street. The amount of bus traffic would increase if greater provision was made &
there would be a traffic blockage at Four Lamps roundabout

1927

Cambridge Planning Committee considered a letter from the Cambridge Co-operative

Society asking for St James Road to be renamed Sleaford Street. They agreed to take
steps to this end. The Housing committee agreed that Triplex stoves be installed in
the 112 houses being erected on the King’s Hedges site and that work proceed with
distempering 24 timber-framed houses on the site.

1902
As the King drove to Newmarket races in an open carriage an Italian organ-grinder
named Arpino was grinding out the strains of “When the boys come marching home once
more”. When the Royal carriage passed the Italian raised his hat and held it as is
customary with him for a coin. The King ordered the carriage to stop. Arpino ran to
catch it up and said, in Italian, “Good morning, King”. This unusual mode of
address evidently caused the King considerable amusement for as the carriage drove
off he was thrown a florin. Arpino now says the King has “patronised” him and he
intends to have the Royal Arms painted on his organ.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 28th October

1977

The spate of UFO sightings south of Cambridge has continued. Saffron Walden police
received two independent reports of what appeared to be two very large headlamps
which went into a star shape the size of a double-decker bus. It then transformed
into the shape of a shuttlecock with red beams coming from both ends. The sequence
was repeated six times. The next night a driver saw a bright amber light trailing
an aircraft, it then hovered and dashed across the sky at very high speed. About a
dozen other people claim to have seen strange lights in the sky during the last few
months.

1952

Three farm labourers beet singling in a field at Westley Waterless had a lucky
escape when they decided to break off for lunch two minutes before a Meteor jet
fighter crashed into the field. Due to the heavy rain they decided to go home for
lunch. The engines landed on the spot where the men had just finished working. Two
of the men had reached the road but Mr V. Clements had stayed an extra minute or
two in order to complete a row and was 50 yards from the crash. The pilot of the
plane, on a flight from RAF Waterbeach, was killed.

1927

The County Education Committee approved the erection of a village college at

Sawston. The basis of the institution is a Senior School which will be an
elementary and not a secondary school. This will provide an advanced education for
older children and pay special attention to practical instruction, particularly
woodwork, domestic subjects and gardening. They were anxious to give a really good
education on a rural basis. It was an experiment that was practically unique. The
name ‘village college’ has been chosen for a building which provided for both
elementary and adult (including agricultural) education and at the same time would
be available for social activities.

1902

St Mary’s church, Swaffham Prior, having been for years the ruinous companion in
the same churchyard, of the parish church of St Cyriac is now open once more for
public worship. The work of restoration had been proceeding for a considerable
time. It is now probably one of the most unique looking sacred buildings in all
England. The old and new parts form a bizarre combination. Above a new roof are the
remains of what has been a magnificent Norman tower. About half of it is left and
is still extremely picturesque. Before a large congregation the Bishop conducted
the re-opening service after which St Cyriac’s ceased to be, and St Mary’s became
the parish church.

Tuesday 29th October

1977

There is a strong element of industrial activity in Cambridge at the moment. There

are already a number of famous and well-established large scientific concerns and
nearly every month sees the setting up of a new firm based on scientific
manufacturing and development. It is an open secret that in the past a number of
the world’s scientific giants have made approaches to the official powers that be
in Cambridge about the possibility of setting up business in the city. But the city
authorities have had to reject the approaches reluctantly because of the
development plan strictures designed 30 years ago.

1952

Hollywood has discovered a brilliant new film star. He is Richard Burton, the
British stage actor who has just finished playing opposite Olivia de Havilland and
is now lined up to star in “Desert Rats”. Cambridge audiences saw and admired this
fine 26-year-old player at the Arts in March of this year when he played the part
of an officer in the virile play “Montserrat”. Our critic drew attention to his
great acting and added: “If Mr Burton does nothing more in the theatre his success
in this part should ever give him a satisfying memory”

1927

The Chief officer of Ely Fire Brigade reported on the fire in Stretham fen. It was
in a most inaccessible place and they had difficulty in getting there. The lorry
lamps were absolutely useless; any new lorry should have an electric lamp. Mr
Harvey asked if the firemen got extra for the night hours. They put in a lot of
time and the insurance people must be obliged to them for saving what they did. He
thought they were not paid much for it. If there had been any farm hands to help
they would have been away seven or eight hours earlier.

1902

The members of the Cambridge Y.M.C.A. celebrated their jubilee with a soiree in
their rooms in Alexandra Street. 50 years ago the Church of England Young Men’s
Society and the Sunday School Teachers’ Institute amalgamated, forming the
Association. It settled in Rose Crescent. In 1853 it moved to larger premises at 5,
Sidney Street, moving to Hobson Place in 1858 and then St Edward’s Passage. In 1870
the first stone was laid of their present building; it was completed a year later.
To call the soiree a success is scarcely adequate; the visitors never had a dull
moment from the time they entered the door until the National Anthem brought the
evening to a close.

Wednesday 30th October

The Jesus Green and Abbey outdoor swimming pools in Cambridge may be drained until
early spring and turned into temporary skateboarding rinks. The Mayor has asked
city council officers to look into the possibilities and if the investigation
proves they can be used he will try and persuade the city council to approve the
plan, thus bypassing the long and tedious committee procedure. Meanwhile Forest
Heath District Council has decided that skateboarding is here to stay and accepted
in principle a proposal to provide ‘beginners’ skateboarding tracks at Mildenhall,
Newmarket and Brandon.

1952

Cambridge City council has decided not to proceed with their proposal to widen
Magdalene Street and reconstruct the great bridge. They had heard objections by the
University and a statement on behalf of Magdalene College & believed that with
mutual co-operation between the city and colleges some of the causes for the
present traffic congestion could be removed. But if it became a choice of either
the spine relief road or of widening Magdalene Street then they would choose the
latter alternative.

1927

An extremely lively meeting was held at Matthew’s Café in connection with the
Cambridge University Labour Club’s first meeting. Mr Jack Jones, M.P. was the
speaker. The room was overflowing with undergraduates and women students of various
political sections. Sugar was thrown, red flags exhibited and cries of “We want
Jones” contributed to the general laughter and talking. Although interrupted
countless times he managed to make his audience listen to what he had to say.

1902

Not long ago the remotest of all probabilities seemed to be that a time would come
when, at Cambridge, Briton and Boer would grasp hands in perfect concord. Yet that
strange event has come to pass. Boers visited and received a cordial welcome from a
large number of people. But unfortunately their reception by a certain section of
the inhabitants had neither the element of cordiality nor of welcome. The
appearance of our former foes was the signal for a hostile demonstration. A huge
crowd gathered in front of the Auckland Road Circus to witness the arrival of the
Generals, whose visit was to raise money to restock Boer farms. Bricks and stones
were hurled upon the zinc roof and hooting and shouting mingled with the other
noises.

Thursday 31st October

1977

When Mr Reg Smart first looked at a site in Newmarket for which his company had
tendered for the contract to build 259 council dwellings, he admitted it looked
frightening. For this contract was worth £ [POUND] 2 million. The business started
in the early 1960s from a Cambridge council house with the sum of £[POUND] 30
holiday pay which he received when leaving the gas board. The success of Phantom
and Moreton estate venture which was completed four months ahead of schedule shows
how far R.H. Smart Ltd has come since its early days. The whole idea of the estate
has been to get away from the often drab uniformity of council estates. It is in an
ideal setting and has a rural feeling about it.

1952

As part of intensive tightening up of police precautions in Newmarket – designed

principally to combat big race week robberies – West Suffolk Police have introduced
dog patrols into the town. A powerful-looking alsatian made his debut accompanied
by a police constable last night. This follows other precautions including the
strengthening of all-night patrols and an appeal to the public to dial 999 if they
saw anything suspicious.

1927

Cambridge councillors spent a couple of hours observing the capabilities of another

motor road sweeper, the “Karrier” Patent Road Sweeper, Sprinkler and Collector”. It
was first tried in Jesus Lane where a large quantity of newly fallen plane tree
leaves were thickly scattered about the roadway and had drifted to a depth of four
inches. A quantity of road sweepings had also been laid and pressed down firmly by
passing traffic. Some of this and patches of horse droppings proved very difficult
to remove and the large leaves presented a serious problem. A great quantity of the
leaves was removed and lifted into the tipping truck at the back of the vehicle but
some of the leaves spun round with the brush and were deposited on the roadway
again behind it.

1902

A most enjoyable evening was spent by about one hundred harvest-men of the Stretham
district who were invited to supper by Messrs Bailey and Tebbutt of the Panton
Brewery, Cambridge. Afterwards a concert was held in which local talent took a
prominent part, especially a youth named Dimmock who shows great promise of
becoming a good comic singer. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded George Wright
who for several years has placed his large barn at the disposal of the guests for
this annual feast and to Host and Hostess Jacobs for the excellent manner in which
they cater for the large company.

Friday 1st November

1977

Restoration work on the picturesque Bourn windmill was officially completed this
weekend. Millwright, Mr Phil Davies, put the finishing touches to the £[POUND]
7,000 job earlier this month and it was left to his wife to unveil a commemorative
plaque above the entrance to the mill, reputed to be one of the oldest in the
country. Work on the mill started after two sails were torn off during the gales of
January 1976. When the Cambridge Preservation Society embarked on the restoration
work it was estimated it would cost about £[POUND] 3,000 but the state of the other
sails pushed the costs up.

1952

Within the last 60 years Cambridge Cattle Market, once one of the smallest in the
country, has become one of the largest. When the Mayor opens the latest addition –
the new store cattle sale yard with its covered-in accommodation for about 500
people and penning facilities for upwards of 1,000 head of cattle – it will mark
the beginning of a new era in which the Cattle Market may well become a national
centre for livestock sales. The present market was opened in 1885 and until 1912
was small; by 1939 it was handling 200-300 fat cattle, 1,000 sheep and 500 pigs a
week.

1927

Chesterton RDC considered the proposed erection of a bridge at Twenty-man’s Ferry,

near Cottenham. An application was received from Wilburton parish council that the
bridge should be erected and the road be put in good repair. It would relieve the
traffic from the Ely main road and relieve the congestion which was very acute on
that road. They ought to get the feelings of the Cottenham people; the bridge would
be a bigger benefit to them more than anybody else.

1902

Ely council has conferred with the manager of the Gas Company as to the proposed
new lamps on Ely High Bridge. It was agreed the light should be incandescent, but
should the wind prove too strong for it the gas manager would substitute ordinary
burners. Mr Archer asked if the bridge was outside the council’s jurisdiction and
whether they ran the risk of the expense for the new lamps being surcharged to the
Council. The bridge was not theirs. The Clerk replied they were doing a duty to the
district and he did not think they would be surcharged. He was quite willing to go
to prison over it.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 4th November

1977

Ghostly members of the 300-year-old Cambridge Everlasting Club failed to make their
appearance at midnight despite a vigil by Jesus College students. More than a dozen
undergraduates gathered in a room at the top of an ancient staircase to wait for
the annual reunion of the club which claimed to confer eternal membership on those
invited to join it. All members of the club are reputed to have met grisly deaths
and the room was sealed for many years as a result. Last night the student occupant
invited fellow members of the Jesus Old Contemptibles dining club to join him for
drinks but nothing happened despite the consumption of bottles of port.

1952

The people of Lode took legal possession of their village playing field when Lord
Fairhaven handed over the deeds to Mr G.G. Ingham, chairman of the Parish Council.
The playing field has football and cricket pitches, with a children’s corner
planned, covers about five acres and is regarded as one of the finest village
grounds in the area. Lord Fairhaven said: “For a long time this has been the
playing field of the village of Lode and I felt the time had come to make it as
safe as possible for ever”. It originally covered some 3½ acres but during the war
he promised some of his Home Guard friends that he would add to it if possible.

1927

The fascinating experience of lunching in Cambridge in the atmosphere of our

Elizabethan forefathers is made possible by the opening of new rooms at Messrs
Matthew’s Café in Trinity Street. They have acquired the two upper storeys of the
building & turned rooms which were formerly part of a lodging house into a charming
medieval retreat. The original beams and window frames remain as well as some
beautiful old carvings and the rooms have been furnished in the style of the
period, pains having been taken to securer faithful reproductions even down to
lamps and pewter pots.

1902

The King was driven to Cheveley Park for a day’s shooting with Colonel McCalmont.
On reaching the park gates a number of children who had assembled cheered. No
unauthorised person was admitted by the constables on duty at the gates to enter
the park. Lunch was served to the party at the house of Mr Tuffs, the head keeper.
The total bag was 2,159 of which 1,876 were pheasants. It was expected that the bag
would have been far larger. The king planted a young South African tree in Cheveley
Park in commemoration of his visit.

Tuesday 5th November

1977

Eastern Electricity introduced rota cuts in Cambridge to combat the deepening power
crisis. Disconnections are likely at any time. As many as 35,500 consumers are
likely to be without power at some time during the day. The district manager said
the situation was bound to get tighter as the work-to-rule by the engineers began
to escalate. Office staff are manning telephones 15 hours a day to keep the public
informed.

1952

The Mayor of Cambridge auctioned ten first-cross blue and white store pigs for the
good price of £7 5s. He was opening the new sales yard at Cambridge Cattle Market.
They were 12 months overdue due to difficulty in getting steel because of the
Government’s re-armament policy but were part of the council’s plans to make it one
of the best in the country. “We hope these extensions will make producers send more
cattle and livestock and thus attract buyers from all over the country”, he said.
They were awaiting Government policy on the question of an abattoir and there was a
move to start a wool market.

1927

A man was charged with stealing a sack containing one pair of men’s breeches and a
shirt from the taproom of the Three Pickerels public house at Mepal. Henry Thomas
Smith told the court he had gone to the pub with his bag, put it under a seat in
the taproom and then gone into another room. When he went for his sack it had gone.
The accused said: “I thought it was my mate’s bag so I picked it up and took it
away. When I saw Bill I found he had got his sack. It was a great mistake, and, on
my oath I never stole it”. He was fined £1.1s.8d

1902

An Ely man was summonsed for assault. Levi Denton said he was in the farmer’s field
gathering blackberries without asking his permission. Defendant, who had a large
stick, came up and asked what he was doing – but he could see for himself. He then
caught hold of his whiskers, knocked him down, kicked him and dragged him out of
the gate. Mr Denton went back into the field for his basket. The chairman: “I
observe one side of your beard is longer than the other. Was it pulled out by the
accused?” Denton: “Yes, and they are on the field now, if not picked up” But he was
on the wrong side of 50 and whiskers come out more easily at that age. The case was
dismissed

Wednesday 6th November

1977

Retailers in Cambridge city centre are angry because the power cuts threaten to
deprive them of electricity for up to three hours every Saturday afternoon. They
feel it is unfair that the same shops should face being cut off during a peak
period every week. The manager of the Abbey Boutique said it could cost traders
thousands of pounds. But Eastern Electricity say they have to think of the needs of
all their consumers and the traders would do well to see how it goes this weekend
before they start complaining

1952

The opening of a new branch of the Country Landowners’ Association for the Isle of
Ely was celebrated by a dinner at the Griffin Hotel, March attended by some 80
local landowners. Lord de Ramsey said the area contained the best farmers and worst
landlords in the country – the sinking of the Fens was enough to discourage any Fen
landlord from being too enthusiastic in improving roads or laying down concrete
yards. Landlords had been looked upon as political and fiscal whipping boys between
the wars but now had a very real opportunity of recreating rural life around them.

1927

A catastrophe was narrowly averted at Cambridge workhouse when the boiler “sprung a
leak”. Had the trouble not been promptly detected an explosion would have
inevitably occurred. This was the second occasion during the week and it had only
to be incapacitated for the laundry, heating and cooking to be at a standstill. The
trouble was caused by an accumulation of chalk deposit from the water. It would not
have occurred had the apparatus been cleaned out at regular intervals. The sooner
they got rid of the boiler and chimney the better.

1902

Albert Pell of Wilburton Manor accused the land tax collector for the parish of
Wentworth of wrongful seizure by distress of three lambs for land tax. He was the
owner of about 1,000 acres in Wilburton and in 1900 had purchased two fields in
Grunty Fen. He did not see how the land could be assessed for land tax in the
parish of Wentworth. The defendant had come on to his land and taken away three
lambs which had been sold by auction for £2 14s. But the judge found the land in
question was properly comprised in the parish of Wentworth land had been taxed for
over 100 years.

Thursday 7th November

1977

A plan by a top Cambridge police marksman to set up a smallbore weapons range in a

disused pit at Haslingfield has been turned down. More than 180 villagers signed a
petition against the firing range. South Cambs planners were told that small bore
shooting is the second most popular sport in the country and they could not have
found a more suitable applicant. But Coun Joe Brown said the site has a variety of
wild birds and flowers and is often used for walks.

1952

Much of the congestion in the central area of Cambridge could be dealt with by
providing car parks in the right places rather than the provision of extra
circulatory routes the Chief Constable told the Development Plan inquiry. Closing
of Magdalene Street would inevitably lead to an increased use of the Backs and the
proposed spine relief road would not afford relief to traffic in the city centre.
The police had received many complaints concerning the amount of noise at Drummer
Street bus station late at night. By moving it to New Square this objection would
be alleviated

1927

A verdict of accidental death was returned at an inquest into a labourer from Tan
Yard, Northampton Street, Cambridge who died as the result of injuries sustained in
a motor accident. John Mayes, cinema attendant at the Tivoli Cinema said deceased
was pulling a handcart; he was in the shafts on the river side of Chesterton Road.
He saw the left wing of the car hit the cart and the man went right under the car.
William Tams, a photographer, estimated the car’s speed at about 25 miles an hour.
PC Brown said he saw the handcart being used to lever the car up in order to lift
it off the man. The boy said “Some --- fool ran into me; don’t let mother know”.

1902

The County Council considered a resolution from Sheffield City Council in favour of
the compulsory adoption of the metric system. Alderman Fordham said there was an
enormous labour thrown upon the children of the country by the present complicated
system of weights and measures and if England were to hold its position in the
trade of the world we should co-ordinate with the system of weights that generally
obtained. The intricacies of the present system were difficult enough for
Englishmen but to the foreigner were simply inexplicable. It was bigoted
conservatism which resented a change of this kind (laughter and applause).

Friday 8th November

1977

Toddlers at Elsworth at last have their own play group building – an old motorway
site office – after months of back-breaking work by their fathers who built the
foundations and weekend by weekend installed plumbing and electricity. Previously
the children had to share the cricket pavilion but cricket and children don’t
really mix and equipment had to be carried in and out for each session.

1952

Some people at the Victoria Cinema almost believed they saw fish swimming above
their heads in the middle of the auditorium. Others found it difficult not to duck
when a cricket ball appeared to bounce right out of the screen. The cause was
something new in cinema entertainment – the three-dimensional film. At present a
special screen has to be used and audiences must wear tinted spectacles. Much still
has to be done before stereoscopic films become commonplace but Cambridge is among
the first places in England to welcome the arrival of the third dimension in the
cinema

1927

The County Council considered possible legislation to facilitate the conversion

into hard metalled roads of fen droves, green lanes or similar roads which by
reason of insufficient hard material were not fit to carry traffic at all seasons
of the year, including private roads, occupation roads and roads set aside under
Enclosure & Drainage Awards. At present it was nobody’s duty to look after such
roads and what little work was done to them was largely wasted. If the Government
was going to do anything to encourage agriculture it could not do better than to
improve these roads.

1902

Notice to Entertainment Providers. Messrs Coulson & Co of St Andrew’s Street

Cambridge have purchased one of the latest Cinematograph Machines that it is
possible to get. This machine is capable of showing 2,000 feet of pictures without
any breakages. Pictures shown are very bright and steady and any size up to 20 feet
may be obtained. It can be used either in dining room or public hall with equal
safety. Sleight of hand and other items of entertainment can also be supplied.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 11th November

1977

A congregation of 2,500 people came to Ely Cathedral to see the Rt Rev Peter Walker
inducted, installed and enthroned as Bishop causing a traffic jam as Ely’s medieval
streets took the strain of the influx of people coming to the biggest service since
Bishop Robert’s induction 13 years ago. The cathedral was packed as a procession of
10 bishops entered the building before the west end doors were firmly shut. The new
bishop raised his crook to shoulder height and struck the vast doors three times.
The echoes died down, the doors opened and with a fanfare the service commenced.

1952

“If Magdalene Street was closed several businesses would be affected between the
Round Church and Northampton Street and the compensation would be very
considerable”, the Cambridge City Surveyor told the Development Plan inquiry. The
council’s policy on widening the road was laid down in 1925. When property was due
for rebuilding the owners should set back the new building to some widened line.
Boots had agreed to demolish their frontage and set it back when the time comes for
the insurance office next door to be rebuilt.

1927

Poppies! They were everywhere. The streets of Cambridge were ablaze with them. They
were on every coat, in every conscience. Their spirit turned the town into a red
riot of remembrance. As the day wore on the poppies grew thicker. A great army of
2,000 undergraduates sold the emblems with an enthusiasm which was unbounded. Early
in the morning they were at their posts with their trays of flowers and collecting
boxes and all through the day carried on their merry money hunt. Many played the
role of highwaymen, boarding buses and holding up the traffic.

1902
W.B. Redfern told Cambridge Photographic Club that he remembered a man standing at
the corner of Parker’s Piece taking photographs of a most ghastly character. At the
time they thought they were works of art. Many of them were daguerreotypes and they
saw a sort of ghost of themselves. Now Cambridge had some of the best photographers
in the kingdom. Mr F.J. Stoakley lectured on photography in natural colours and the
Sanger Shepherd process.

Tuesday 12th November

1977

St Ives town centre needs a drastic facelift, say planners. There are 134 protected
buildings in the centre but more than 50 buildings are in need of renovation and
two major sites – Dolphin Yard and Crown Yard - are derelict and need rebuilding.
The main proposals are a new shopping precinct at Crown Yard & pedestrianisation of
White Hart Lane. A new bus terminus is proposed at the Cattle Market plus a large
new shopping complex on the Sheep Market. One development above all will have a
significant impact – the provision of a by-pass to the east.

1952

Cambridge council objected to the proposed development of land at Stourbridge

Common as a professional football ground. The land was acquired for tipping
purposes and they wished it to be zoned for storing Civil Defence materials or for
use as a lorry park. The Chief Constable said that, assuming the aim was to bring
Third Division football to Cambridge with possible crowds of 15,000 people, it
would not present much difficulty in dispersing them from Newmarket Road after a
match. The City council proposed a municipal sports ground at Trumpington Road. The
class of football envisaged would attract gates of not more than 1,000 and would
not be in the same class as Cambridge City or United football clubs.

1927

The Ouse Drainage Bill was rejected by a Joint Committee of Parliament. It was
proposed to construct training walls, embankments, sluices and deepening channels
and rate – differentially as between uplands and lowlands – the whole of the
watershed from Oxford to the Wash. It was the adequacy of even this elaborate
scheme and the apportionment of the cost which provoked strong opposition. Experts
reported that if the proposals were not carried out “the danger of the district
returning to its original condition of swamp is very real”.

1902

Newmarket councillors will ask the Great Eastern Railway Company to run a certain
number of the special trains in race week to and from the old station because of
the serious effects upon tradesmen caused by the opening of the new railway
station. In the Cesarewitch and Cambridgeshire weeks when race trains were sent to
the old station people had patronised the shops of the tradesmen on the road to the
course and that showed plainly what a loss the diversion of the traffic had been.
But the Railway Company considered their own interests before those of the town.

Wednesday 13th November

1977
A thief only got £5 for an original Constable – because an art dealer thought it
was a poor copy of the one in the Fitzwilliam Museum across the road. But it WAS
the one across the road, and the dealer only discovered that when he read about the
theft in his morning paper. He dashed to his office, checked the painting and
discovered it was the original. And while he was checking it the police walked in
on a routine enquiry. So he handed it over. The picture was grubby and finger-
marked because the thief had shopped it around five or six other dealers in
Cambridge.

1952

In swerving to avoid a dog in the road a 101 bus being driven along Green End Road,
Cambridge on Sunday morning crashed into a house. The conductress, E. Chalker, who
was taking an 11-year-old girl passenger’s fare, was slightly injured. The girl,
Marilyn Hall, was also injured when she was shot forward almost into the house. As
she was being lifted into the ambulance Marilyn asked her mother “Can we have our
fares back now? We didn’t go anywhere”.

1927

Gloucester Street workshop for disabled soldiers in Cambridge, opened by Princess

Mary last year, is represented at an exhibition at the Imperial Institute. Their
stall contains all kinds of basketwork, knitting and other things made at the
workshops. At present there are eight men working there. All are of over 60 per
cent disability through the war, and one is of over 90 per cent. The workshop can
never be a paying concern but good work is being done in enabling the men to earn
sufficient money to keep them “off the dole”. Colonel Willis, the secretary or Miss
Brearley, manageress and instructress, would be pleased to see anyone interested.

1902

On October 30th the CDN published a full list of creditors in a bankruptcy case and
paid at the usual rate charged by the Bankruptcy Court. The following day a portion
of our list was copied, without permission, by the Cambridge Independent Press and
Cambridge Chronicle. We are determined to put a stop to the unacknowledged
appropriation of our news by rival journals and both have now issued apologies.
The C.D.N. is the only paper in Cambridge which maintains a staff sufficiently
large to deal properly with events and it is intolerable that our rivals should
supplement their deficiencies by taking from our columns without permission the
news they cannot obtain for themselves.

Thursday 14th November

1977

Crowds waving flags and demonstrators waving banners greeted the Queen and Prince
Philip as they arrived to open the new Wolfson College. For the Duke there must
have been something familiar about the scene. For the second time in less than five
months he was met in the city by pouring rain and by a group campaigning for
nursery facilities in the university. He gave them a friendly wave as the car drove
past. The Queen said she had laid the foundation stone of a college at Oxford and
subsequently opened another of the same name at Cambridge. That this was possible
was proof of the generosity of the Wolfson Foundation.

1952

The visit to the University of Cambridge by the Duke of Edinburgh was enriched and
enlivened by the reception which the young consort received at every stage of his
tour. It was a “dusk and darkness” tour but the car’s interior lighting was on and
the crowds had a clear view of the slim, fair-haired Duke. The outstanding items in
the programme were the conferment of the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Law upon the
Duke at the Senate House, his opening of the new laboratory at the University
Engineering Department and his visit to the University Union where he was made an
honorary member. The Duke left a happy memory of an unassuming young man with a
ready smile and a keen and intelligent interest in all that he saw.

1927

Two of the proudest men in Cambridge are Mr H.A. Hagger and Mr F.C. Fuller who were
in charge of the stall of the Disabled Men’s Workshop, Gloucester Street, at the
Imperial Institute. It was the only stall attended by the actual men who made the
goods and the contents were completely disposed of by mid-way through the week. The
Queen bought a pair of heather-mixture socks and a waste paper basket. The Duchess
of York bought a fancy rush stool remarking “It will do for Princess Elizabeth for
the nursery”. By the time the Prince of Wales visited they had nothing left to sell
him.

1902

The report of the committee on the fire at Addenbrooke's Hospital shows that the
fire did not originate from any carelessness, but from the improper construction of
the building itself. Joists have been found extending to the interior of the
chimneys, which the committee regards as dangerous. The marvel is that it was ever
permitted. If this method of construction prevails generally then some rather
extensive alterations will have to be faced.

Friday 15th November

1977

A Cambridge tailors, James Neal Ltd, which has been in Cambridge for 107 years, has
been taken over by another tailors which is even older. The firm which has bought
out the Trumpington Street business is Ede and Ravenscroft which started trading in
1689. It specialises in ceremonial and academic robes and is a leading manufacturer
of wigs and legal wear.

1952

Ninety-one percent of the properties in the East Road area of Cambridge fell into
the “short life” or “no life” categories the Development Plan inquiry was told. The
area as a whole was described as “densely packed”. The age of the houses was about
100 years, they were generally poorly constructed and the worst property in
Cambridge lay in the area. The plan envisages using Norfolk Street as a local
shopping centre to keep East Road free for a traffic route. But Mr S.P. Yarrow,
retail grocer at 35 East Road said that if he went to Norfolk Street his turnover
would be cut by half. B.G. Reynolds of Renbro Wireless Services, East Road, said he
had one of the best positions in the area and business would go down if he moved.
They did not see why two shops in East Road should impede the flow of traffic.

1927

Remarkable scenes in which an undergraduate fainted were witnessed at the Cambridge

Union Society debate on the desirability of a wider knowledge of contraceptive
methods. Ladies were excluded from the Hall for this debate and the gallery, which
is usually used by them, was completely filled with undergraduates. A speaker
referred to the effect of an overcrowded population on the poorer people. It was
only by birth control that they had been able to keep up their standard of living;
the issue was quantity of population against quality. But the best education a
child could get was to grow up with brothers and sisters. The debate concluded that
a wider knowledge of contraceptive methods was in the interest of both morality and
social welfare.

1902

When Cambridge council decided to widen Castle Street by acquiring part of St

Giles’ churchyard the improvements necessitated the demolition of the wall and the
removal of human remains from the consecrated ground. This work is now being
proceeded with as reverently as possible. A considerable exhibition of morbid
curiosity to view what is being done has been manifested, but it has received every
discouragement from those responsible for the proper exhumation and reinterment.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 18th November

1977

Cambridgeshire’s fire authority has hidden a fire engine somewhere in Huntingdon

for the use of the town’s 13 retained firemen so they will not, it is hoped, have
to cross picket lines of their full-time colleagues when a fire call goes out. The
retained firemen have been refused service at the bar of the Firemen’s and
Ambulancemen Sports and Social Club. One said: “We are a bit disappointed. We
wholeheartedly agree with their pay-claim and would do anything we could to help,
except take strike action”

1952

A student occupying what is said to be a set of haunted rooms at Jesus College,

Cambridge may have thought ghosts from distant lands had paid him a visit when he
returned last Friday. During his absence a friend had taken some visitors from
Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos into the rooms and they were so delighted that they
decided to leave a memento in the form of messages written in Vietnamese, Cambodian
and Laotian scripts – the last appears to be a work of art, looking slightly like
Chinese script.

1927

Described as one of the finest shop sites in Cambridge, no.3 Petty Cury was offered
for sale by auction. The shop, now in the occupation of Mrs Kemp as a toy and fancy
warehouse, was offered with vacant possession and is freehold. The auctioneer
mentioned the tremendous difference that would be made to the Market Square end of
Petty Cury by the opening up of a big new shop at the corner. Bidding quickly rose
to £7,350 but did not reach the reserve price and was withdrawn. Immediately after
the auction it was sold privately.

1902

A piece of work, involving operations similar to those by which the “Tube” railway
was constructed, is on the point of being finished, having been in progress for
nearly twelve months. It is the sewer connecting the New Cemetery with the Sewage
Farm, Cambridge. Its length is over a mile and in some places it is laid to a depth
of 24 feet. The greater part of the work has been done by the “tunnelling” system
and carried out entirely by Cambridge men under the supervision of the Borough
Surveyor

Tuesday 19th November

1977

There are almost 400 properties standing vacant in Cambridge according to the Empty
Property Action Group. More than 200 are houses of which the great majority are
privately owned. There are 1,026 people on the council’s “live” waiting list and
another 1,4001 seeking council accommodation at some future date. Numerous
organisations are seeking accommodation for special groups like the College of Arts
and Technology, Women’s Aid, Fulbourn Hospital and Cyrenians Night Shelter. The
Kite and Castle Street areas share the highest concentration of empty property. The
city council are worried that the list could serve as a kind of housing register
for squatters.

1952

Mr George Hawkins, who has been the sole owner of G.P. Hawkins Ltd has announced
that he has disposed of his entire shareholding to the Cambridge Co-operative
Society. The firm was founded in 1838 in Fitzroy Street, which is still one of
their shops. At the beginning of the century the late Mr G.P. Hawkins opened a shop
and café in Sidney Street. In 1929 these premises and the adjoining site were
extensively developed resulting in the opening in 1931 of ‘The Dorothy’ as it
stands today.

1927

A fire completely destroyed the premises of Messrs Norton and Naylor, electrical
engineers, at the rear of 9 Staffordshire Street, Cambridge. It was a large wooden
structure used as a store and workshop, situated in a yard at the rear. It
contained a large quantity of electrical fittings and a car, which was garaged
there at the time was reduced to a complete wreck. This morning the derelict car
stood in a setting of charred and blistered framework whilst among the debris was
the frame of what was once a bicycle as well as numerous bulbs.

1902

The widening of Castle Street, Cambridge, by acquiring parts of St Giles’

churchyard has necessitated the demolition and transference of the churchyard wall,
as well as the removal of human remains from the consecrated ground. A considerable
exhibition of morbid curiosity to view what is being done has been manifested, but
it has received every discouragement from those responsible for the proper conduct
of exhumation and reinterment.

Wednesday 20th November

1977

A string of obsolete fire tenders standing in a Cambridge scrapyard prompted

speculation they could be brought out of retirement to relieve the hard-pressed
Green Goddesses standing in for the regular fire appliances. But the owner thinks
that the situation would have to get desperate before they could be considered:
“They have been standing round for about two years and have been partially
stripped”, he said. The main market for them is as spare parts for similar machines
still in use overseas. A few years ago he sold a large batch of the Green Goddesses
to Iceland where fishermen have converted them into large trucks for transporting
fish.

1952

Mildenhall readers are reminded that the Night Final editions of the C.D.N. is now
available at about 5.20 each evening and new arrangements have been made for its
regular delivery. Orders can be given to Mr A. Ayes of Beck Row or left at his
table inside the Bell Hotel, Mildenhall. The News contains full reports of all
local happenings in the area. Persons who have news items should contact out
Mildenhall correspondent, Mrs Mary Smith in Manor Road.

1927

Syd Greenall, the famous fen skater and professional champion of 1901, has died of
double pneumonia. He was born in Cambridgeshire 42 years ago. At Belle Vue Kennels,
Manchester, last summer, he was bitten by a dog and said, “This will kill me”.
Greenall was not only one of the world’s fastest skaters, but was also a fine
figure skater.

1902

Young England will learn with regret the death of Mr G.A. Henty. He was a soldier,
miner & war correspondent but it was as a novelist that he will go down to
posterity. He was born at Trumpington and went to Caius College, Cambridge, but
before he could take his degree an opportunity occurred which was irresistible to a
young man of his adventurous temperament. The Crimean War broke out and he received
an appointment in the Purveyor’s Department of the Army. His stories for boys
numbered considerably over eighty and he sometimes produced a book in three weeks.

Thursday 21st November

1977

In 1975 St Ives Borough Council approved in outline the development of a shopping

centre and office buildings at Crown Yard. They were asked to approve the
demolition of the Jackdaw Boutique at the entrance, an old gymnasium and the music
shop in the yard. These were among the buildings destroyed in a fire that summer.
Coun. Fred Jennings observed that historically and aesthetically the buildings were
important. “We do not want to repeat the mistake of Huntingdon where buildings of
modern idiom are crying out among buildings of an older type”, he said

1952

The new police station at the junction of White Hart Lane and Paddock Street is
the most up-to-date and first of its kind in the county. Four houses are provided
for the station staff and the office accommodation includes sergeant’s office,
charge room and patrol rooms, in addition to garage accommodation. In charge of the
new station in Sgt F.G. Brown who moves from Bottisham to take over from Sgt Miller
who has been at Soham for the last five years.

1927

The Cambridge Photographic Club exhibition contained 120 entries made in connection
with the scheme for providing photographic records of objects of interest in the
county, most of them thatched cottages which are not unlikely to disappear.
Whittlesford, Balsham and Toft provided the largest numbers, these being villages
to which excursions were organised during the summer months.

1902

A serious accident occurred at Hyde Park Corner, Cambridge. Two horse attached to a
farm cart became restive when passing a flock of sheep and dashed off at great
speed in the direction of the shelter at the corner of Lensfield Road. An old man
who was crossing the road was knocked down and considerably injured. The cart came
violently into contact with the shelter, the railings around the entrance to the
public convenience were dislodged and the stonework supporting them broken in
several places.

Friday 22nd November

1977

St Ives has more reason than most towns to be wary over the firemen’s strike. When
fire broke out in Crown Yard in the summer of 1975 it served as a grim reminder of
past blazes. In 1680 a large part of the town was completely destroyed in a
disastrous blaze and nine years earlier a fire started in a malthouse at the end of
White Hart Lane, crossed the Market Place east of Bridge Street and destroyed all
the houses to the river.

1952

South Cambs R.D.C. decided to close all the waiting lists of applicants for
tenancies of hutments at Fowlmere. This came as a result of a resolution from the
Parish Council who asked them to allow no new persons to reside in the camps and to
pull down each hut or portion of a hut as soon as it was vacated. Coun Murfitt
spoke against closure: “We do not want to see people living under such conditions
but until we have built enough houses we should not pull these huts down”. But it
was costing £30 a hut to keep out the rain and this ‘fantastic’ expenditure should
be used to help build other houses and not for bolstering up huts which were not
fit for human habitation.

1927

The awkward position of the members of the Ouse Drainage Board on account of the
rejection of the Drainage Bill led to lengthy discussions. The uplander, the
fenlander and the lowlander were opposed to that Bill, the forces against it must
have been tremendous and the rejection was a surprise to the Government officials
who drafted it. They hoped that the new Bill that came forward would be from the
fen people themselves, the trouble with the last one was that it came too much from
above

1902
Unfortunately the Cambridge Omnibus Company have been unable to find a purchaser
for their business as a going concern and their horses, omnibuses etc had to be
sold at their stables in Chesterton Road. A two-horse omnibus to carry 26
passengers fitted with garden seats on the top sold for 20 guineas. Buses by the
‘Star Omnibus Company’ were not in such good condition and realised £10 while
others went for as low a sum as £4.10s. The one-horse ‘buses did not sell for much
but a four-horse charabanc, “The Cambridge Belle” sold for 62 guineas to Mr Ellis
Merry. Prices for horses dropped to as low as three guineas.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 25th November

1977

The church bells at Ashwell will ring out whenever there is a fire to alert the
newly-formed amateur firefighting force. Men in the village offered to take on the
job at a special meeting called by the parish council. They were worried that the
Army would not get to the village in time if fire broke out and if able-bodied men
were on call they could stop a small fire and prevent it from getting bigger. A
lorry loaded with sheets, hoses, stretchers and shovels will be positioned near the
Bluegates Dairy and farmers who have water tankers agreed to keep them full.

1952

South Cambs RDC decided they were not responsible for cleaning out the river Mel
near Sheene Farm and refused a request from Meldreth parish council to take action
which would prevent the flooding of the road. Coun Pepper said: “It is common
knowledge that houses are flooded and drainage floats about the gardens, roads are
flooded and travel becomes dangerous. The responsibility lies fairly and squarely
upon this council”. But Coun Murfitt said the Council was not responsible for
flooding.

1927

It was a memorable day in the history of St John’s Church, Hills Road, Cambridge
with the opening of the new Parish Hall and Sunday School. The hall, which is
dedicated chiefly to the use of young people, is a fine building of red brick and
is situated on the site of the old Mission Church in Blinco Grove. The Women’s
Union have made themselves responsible for the porch and entrance, raising £130 &
money for the electric light has been raised by Miss Gwatken and her Bible Class.

1902

Valuable licensed premises for sale. In Sutton: the brick and slated beer house
known by the sign of “Exhibition Inn” in Painter’s Lane, containing tailor’s shop
and two bedrooms, stable and iron-roofed open hovel. In Hillrow: the fully-licensed
public house known as “Two Pot House” containing tap room and six bedrooms,
thatched stables and timber closet. In Haddenham: the beer house known by the sign
of “The White Lion” in Station Road.

Tuesday 26th November

1977
A Huntingdon inquest returned an accident verdict on the deaths of the crew of a
Canberra jet plane that crashed on Oxmoor and on the three children who were
trapped when their homes were turned into an inferno. At the time the plane was
carrying out a practice overshoot of RAF Wyton which involved approaching the
runway with one of the engines throttled back to simulate engine failure.
Huntingdon MP, Sir David Renton, said the RAF must stop practising such engine
failures over built-up areas & called for greater co-operation with the RAF about
building homes under flightpaths.

1952

Edward Lainson of Premier Travel told the Development Plan Inquiry that it would be
highly undesirable to move the bus station from Drummer Street to New Square.
Access would be difficult and the crossing of Emmanuel Road by a large number of
people would constitute a danger. It would cause congestion because a lot of people
who found the buses handy would start using their cars.

1927

Chesterton RDC received the layout submitted by Cambridge Estates Ltd for a new
building estate in the parish of Impington. They had acquired 30 acres of land. The
estate a considerable frontage to Arbury Road. It could be drained mainly into
Milton Road by a new road to be called Hurst Park Avenue. It would be developed
uniformly on garden suburb lines with wide roads & grass verges.

1902

Mr W.B. Redfern, the managing director of the New Theatre Company, Cambridge, is an
attractive and familiar personality. He has completed twenty years of continuous
theatrical management, which constitutes a record. The theatre in Cambridge has had
to struggle hard for recognition and toleration; it has had to combat opposition to
make its way to favour in the minds of those most ignorant of its possibilities. He
has won almost all – we say ‘almost’ because there still lurk in the minds of
reactionary and antiquated brains some feelings of prejudice which the theatre had
yet to overcome.

Wednesday 27th November

1977

A Cambridge genetics student has been refused a place in the university’s late-
night firewatch patrols, because she is a woman. But after she threatened to take
the university before an industrial tribunal unless she is allowed to apply for the
£16-a-night job an official said the policy was being reconsidered, adding: “At the
time we started these patrols we did not think it would be right to subject young
ladies to walking around all night”. The patrol involves walking around different
university sites and anybody who was worried by the prospect would not apply in the
first place

1952

There was confirmation from Newmarket of the Cambridge flying saucer report. Mr J.
Beirne reported seeing ‘a definite circular object while cycling along Madingley
Road, Cambridge. Now comes a report from a bus conductor of seeing a ‘bright cigar-
shaped object’ flying at great speed at Newmarket. It gave out an orange-coloured
tint and was fire by three small tappets at the rear. There have been isolated
cases of practical demonstrations of guided missiles being carried out in the
Mildenhall area and on the Norfolk coast. These guided weapons are known to be
capable of speeds over 2,000 m.p.h.

1927

A Cottenham drain had got into a very bad condition and was an offence, councillors
heard. The matter had been raised in 1913 when the owner of the house was
prosecuted and the magistrates had decided the drain was a sewer. At Ivatt Street
there was a main road and a private street and two blocks of six houses nearby.
Every pair of houses had a gully into which they threw refuse and that drained into
the cesspool. The drain had got into a very bad condition and was an offence to all
12 houses, but the owner declined to take any steps.

1902

At Cambridge court Mr Redfern, director of the New Theatre, renewed application for
licences to allow two children, aged 10 and nine, to perform at the theatre with Mr
Edward Terry’s company. The children’s performance was not an acrobatic one; they
simply came on and had some lines to repeat. They were under the watchful eye of a
governess and their parents were travelling with the company which was on tour and
acting every night. It was not unusual for the Government inspector to run down
from Norwich to visit theatres in which children were acting and had always been
satisfied.

Thursday 28th November

1977

A suggestion that the controversial punk rock group, the Sex Pistols, should visit
Cambridge has been turned down by city council officials who fear they would
attract the wrong sort of clientele. All punk rock groups who appear in council
buildings should be of the moderate and non-controversial kind. An agency had
suggested that they could perform in a tent on Midsummer Common.

1952

Mr George Hawkins has disposed of his holdings in the firm of G.P. Hawkins Ltd to
the Cambridge Co-operative Society and a new company has been formed. But he has
insisted that ‘The Dorothy’ will continue on the same lines as in the past and did
not agree to the change-over until given that assurance. Running a catering
establishment of this size is no easy task, made greater during the war when he was
also the Regional Bread Officer for the Ministry of Food.

1927

The Isle of Ely County Council intends shortly to remove the constable stationed at
Coveney to Wimblington and the police station would be abolished. The Coveney beat
would then be amalgamated with Witchford. They discussed suggestions that the Isle
and Huntingdonshire police forces should be amalgamated, but they did not know
whether one Chief Constable could be able to give the same attention to two
counties as he had given in one. The County Medical Officer preferred to have a
Smith Premier typewriter to any British make he had seen, but Coun. Buswell said it
would not do.

1902
A fire broke out in a stack of oats and a stack of thousand-head at Parish’s farm
in Littlebury and the outlook became serious. There was a lack of water which was
not accessible nearer than the river Granta and an unusual length of hose was
required by the fire brigades. Then on Friday night a fire broke out at the rear of
the Falcon Inn, Littlebury. A tank was placed in the middle of the village into
which the Walden Brigade pumped water from the river while the Great Chesterford
men pumped it on to the burning premises. Great consternation prevailed among the
inhabitants who, from many cottages, removed all their goods into the street. The
back portion of the Falcon Inn was damaged and the buildings in the yard destroyed.

Friday 29th November

1977

Cambridge City Council is to think again about plans to sell the mid 17th-century
Abbey House in Abbey Road. The Folk Museum Trustees had given the ancient house to
the city council only four years ago in the hope they would look after it. Coun
Warren said: “It is shameful if the council is now considering selling the house
and keeping the money itself.” Coun John Powley said that money to repair the
property was limited and the best course would be to sell it to the person living
there and let him carry out repair working costing thousands of pounds.

1952

The County Council have designs on a quarter of an acre of smallholdings let to

Redgate Nurseries on the corner of Hick’s Lane and Cambridge Road Girton. It is
proposed to establish a police station and house on the site which would give
adequate supervision of the Huntingdon Road – a black spot for accidents in the
past. The County Police force has been undermanned since the war and better
accommodation would attract more recruits. The constable at Girton was responsible
for policing the parishes of Girton, Oakington and Westwick. A council house was
not suitable; if a constable had to detain a prisoner there was only the living
room of the house available.

1927

The annual concert and prize distribution of Slepe Hall School took place in the
Corn Exchange, St Ives when a large gathering enjoyed a delightful programme of
music provided by the staff and pupils. The certificates and prizes won by the
girls were distributed by the Principal of Homerton College. She urged parents not
to withdraw their girls, whenever possible, until the end of their school time, as
a completed education was more necessary than ever in the new world and urged the
girls to choose something for their future life which might be to them a vocation,
no matter how bold such an enterprise might seem.

1902

The well known fully-licensed Hoop Hotel, Bridge Street, Cambridge was offered to
public auction. The establishment has had a long career, having been established in
1729, and was referred to by Wordsworth – “And at ‘The Hoop’ alighted, Famous Inn”.
Bidding commenced at £2,000 and rose to £4,000 at which figure the property was
withdrawn.

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 2nd December

1977

An Ely youth club has been forced to close because it is too successful. The Young
Pioneers Club is now so big it has outgrown its usual meeting place, the homes of
the leaders. As a last resort to get a suitable club room members have sent a
petition to Ely City Council calling for help. The club was started about two years
ago to cater for children too young to go to the other youth clubs. They started
with 12 members, now they have 40.

1952

One woman who says ‘No thank you’ to a mink coat is the wife of a St Neots mink
farmer. He was one of a dozen mink farmers in Britain in 1945. Now he is one of 200
who are showing that the film stars’ fur can be bred here as well and cheaper than
in Canada and America. Mink are usually sold in trios – one male and two females –
at about £50 for dark brown, £65 for silver blue and £100 for the newly-fashionable
white. The chances of growing a mink coat in your back garden are not much. You
would need 100 skins and they would have to be perfectly matched.

1927

A portion of the estate of the late Mr Benjamin Jolley, comprising practically the
whole of Great Eastern Street, Cambridge was offered for auction. There was a large
company and prices ranged from £120 to £142 each. Ten houses in Gwydir Street
fetched £2,250 but nos.38-42 Cherryhinton Road were withdrawn.

1902

The new motor omnibuses which are being constructed for the London streets promise
well. If they fulfil what is claimed for them they will beyond question be a great
boon. They are capable of speeds up to fourteen miles an hour and Cambridge people
will heartily wish some speculative philanthropists would put two or three such
vehicles on our roads. The old omnibus company is being sorely missed, especially
by people living in the suburbs; the old familiar vehicles, unsatisfactory as they
were, were yet better than nothing

Tuesday 3rd December

1977

It will cost about £10,000 to repair the disused River Mill at Eaton Socon which
has been battered by vandals for the past three years it has been empty, says the
secretary of Anglian Landowner Mutual Ltd which has just bought the mill and will
be moving in with other associate companies next year. Vandals they have torn
down ceilings, smashed every lavatory and even removed a complete staircase. The
building, also known as Addison Mill has had a chequered history. At one time there
were plans for it to be converted to a three-star hotel

1952

The fact that South Cambs RDC intend to start building houses on land at Fowlmere
adjoining another piece designated in the Development Plan for a housing site was a
“deplorable and irresponsible decision which they take at their peril” said an
objector at the Inquiry. A piece of land at present used as a recreation ground was
large enough for the existing football pitch and the proposed housing site. The
Council said that a piece of land owner by a Mr Sheldrick was the most suitable,
but when he wished to reclaim it for agriculture they had suggested the other site.

1927

Shelford Amateur Sports Association held their boxing competition in the Village
Hall when the building was packed to its utmost capacity. The best fight of the
evening was that between A.C. Manser (RAF) and C. Stubbings (C.A.B.C.), both men
fighting the whole bout without easing for a moment. Manser, despite the handicap
of a cut eye, gamely stuck to his task and was warmly applauded for his spirited
show when Stubbings was awarded a well-deserved decision.

1902

Newmarket RDC are to ask the County Council to use their influence with the
Commissioners of Woods and Forests, the owners of the Burwell Ness Toll Bar, to
ascertain on what terms they would allow it to be removed and the road made over to
the public. There were a great many people in the neighbourhood who would be
pleased to see the road open, including cyclists from all parts of the county.

Wednesday 4th December

1977

Sir – some months ago Cambridge central library introduced a new computer system.
The computer broke down and 250 borrowers were notified that books which they had
already returned were overdue. The Electronic machine is our century’s God and to
suggest that a human being with ballpoint pen would be more efficient than a
computer is, to those idol-worshippers, plain blasphemy. Since the Browne system
was abandoned folly reigns in the pixilated Library – Mrs M. Daniels.

c.77.4

1952

Owing to an improvement in the supply of new cars to the home market, the motor
industry has decided to reduce the period of restraint against resale under the
covenant from two years to 12 months. This is another step to abolish the covenant
as soon as its retention is no longer necessary to protect the motoring public from
the activities of speculators. In future customers will no longer have to complete
a form giving details of all new cars owned by him since the war. The models still
covered include Austin A.30 and A.40, Ford Anglia, Prefect, Consul and Zephyr,
Hillman Minx, Morris Minor and Oxford and Vauxhall Wyvern and Velox.

1927

The Coroner was occupied for some time inquiring into the death of an Automobile
Association patrol scout who collided with a motor lorry at Sawbridgeworth. He had
been a scout for two years and previously been a despatch rider in the army. He had
ridden a motor cycle for 13 or 14 years. A lorry driver said he was just pulling up
to light his lamps and heard a crash. He was travelling at about ten miles an hour.
He found the scout had run into the offside front mudguard of the lorry and damaged
the oil box. The lorry was a three-ton Fiat and averaged 12 miles per hour.

1902

Well-deserved tributes were paid to the excellent work by Detective-Sergeant Marsh.

It has been owing to his sagacity and promptness that a number of exceedingly
slippery rogues have been brought to book during the past few months. His capture
of the man sentenced for stealing the cash box from Messrs Stearn was made in the
nick of time – a few minutes later and he would have been too late. One especially
noticeable feature about his methods is his scrupulous fairness to accused persons,
a matter of the highest importance in the proper administration of justice.

Thursday 5th December

1977

Sidney Street, Cambridge can be a battleground at this time of year. The narrow
pavements and heavy traffic are a strain for anyone trying to shop. A right turn
down Sussex Street may prove more fruitful. It has a solid old-fashioned atmosphere
and a tightly-packed variety of specialist shops. The decorations and window
displays are refreshingly quiet. The shopper can get a bite in the newly-opened
Took’s snack-bar, or relax for a shampoo at Diane’s Hair International. Pigotts has
a large stock of ironmongery and clothing shops include Paris House and the Rose
Cavern Boutique, Easifit shoes and Charles’ leather shop.

1952

Cambridge Council will start negotiations for the purchase of sites in Northampton
Street to build cottages for old people. The Cambridge Preservation Society has
offered £100 towards the cost of each dwelling on condition that the cottages in
Kettle'’ Yard are kept in being and modernised. Because of the urgent need in
Chesterton for more cottages for old people’s use the Housing Committee are to
consider buying land on the Scotland Farm Site.

1927

According to the Master of Bailiol, not even a Scot can now manage in Oxford on
less than £200 a year unless he had not enough to eat. But £250 should suffice for
anybody. One undergraduate thinks a man can do “fairly comfortably” on £300 a year,
providing he had not expensive tastes. A Cambridge Fresher says he has spent £150
on college bills, £30 on furniture, clubs £16, clothes £30, books £13, tips £15,
gate fines £2 this term. If he goes on at the same rate for the next two terms he
is in for an expensive first year!

c.36.9

1902

A fire occurred at the premises of Messrs Redding and Son, Tennis Court Road,
Cambridge. The outbreak took place in a shed where firelighters are manufactured
and is supposed to have been caused by some resin boiling over on to some of the
inflammable material lying about. The damage is considerable. A similar fire
occurred on the same spot three or four years ago.

Friday 6th December

1977

Restoration work is underway on a pair of thatched cottages in Church Street

Stapleford, bought for just £1. Also included in the deal was an old slaughterhouse
next door. All are being rethatched. The buildings were owned by a development
company and were offered to the Parish Council when a preservation order was made.
The cottages were then sold to the Cambridgeshire Cottage Improvement Society who
will renovate and let them to people in the village. The council has kept the
slaughterhouse which may be used as a museum.

1952

Mrs Dale (Ellis Powell) of BBC fame will have something different to note in her
diary when she opens the Cambridge Co-operative Society’s new block of three shops
on the corner of Whitehill Road. This imposing site accommodates an up-to-the-
minute food store surmounted by dwellings. The three shops comprise a wet, dried
and fried fish department, a butcher and a modern ‘self-service’ grocery with
counters for the sale of rationed goods, confectionery and tobacco.

1927

A fire which might have spread with serious consequences broke out at the Ely Beet
Factory. The canteen, which is a wooden building used for sleeping quarters, was
discovered to be on fire at 12.57 am and within 20 minutes a considerable portion
was burned to the ground. Immediately on discovery of the outbreak a telephone
message was sent to the police and they gave the alarm to the Ely, Cambridge and
Littleport Brigades. Within 11 minutes Ely brigade was out of the station and
arriving at the scene found the place burning very fiercely. They played on it with
water from the Ouse, which flows by the factory. Fortunately the flames did not
spread to the sugar store, which stands close by. All the occupants of the sleeping
quarters managed to escape uninjured with the exception of the nephew of the
canteen manager who sustained bad burning injuries to the face.

1902

Messrs Scruby and Wright sold by auction four brick-built and tiled cottages, nos.
195-199 High Street, Old Chesterton, with outbuildings and gardens, price £310. Two
adjoining houses, 64 & 76 Sturton Street, Cambridge, made £330. The family
residence, Primrose Croft near Victoria Road with over an acre of land, and the
windmill and cottage on the Milton Road were not sold.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 9th December

1977

Fears that there may be danger of radiation created by the Cambridge atom-splitting
team of the 1930s has resulted in a decision to open up a laboratory locked up and
sealed for the past 30 years. The room, at the top of the tower in the old
Cavendish Laboratory, was locked when Lord Rutherford died in 1937. Since then it
has been opened only once – in 1946 when it was cleaned and all materials taken out
of it. The room was immediately sealed again because of possible danger of
radioactivity from the walls, ceiling and floor. His successors were prepared to
live with the locked room but the new tenants of the building – the university’s
social scientists – need reassurance.

c.36.9

1952

The villagers of Reach want their village to remain a village in its own right.
They do not want to become part of Swaffham Prior. Strictly speaking Reach has
never been a village in its own right – part of it lying within the parish of
Burwell and part in Swaffham Prior, now an Inquiry is trying to sort the matter
out. They concede that the present set-up is unsatisfactory but feel the answer is
to make Reach a parish of its own.

1927

Cambridge Councillors heard that Mr D. Page had been appointed to act as pindar at
a wage of £2 18s. 2d. per week, which included 5s, the value of the cottage now
occupied by his predecessor, Mr C. Everitt. As he was unable to occupy the cottage
at Coldham’s Common there was a difficulty in locking and unlocking the gate and it
was agreed that Mr Everitt be paid 10s a week for such services.

c.19

1902

The Provost of Kings said that whatever good had been done by the University
Spinning House it was of a very rough and ready kind. It succeeded in arresting
women in a course of evil, and sending them to their homes, but one could not say
much for the humanising and Christianising influence that was brought to bear upon
the women there. In any town there was a probability of evil and if they added
3,000 young men in they hey-day of youth, many of them without fixed principles of
right and wrong, and a number of young women coming from bad homes and bearing an
hereditary disposition for evil there must be some danger.

WOMEN # c.34.6

Tuesday 10th December

1977

The chairman of Cambridgeshire Public Protection Committee, Coun John Mitham, got a
first-hand taste of firefighting when he was among the first on the scene at a
blaze in a barn at Swavesey. He lives only a few hundred yards away and when he
heard the siren go at Barwell’s engineering works he made a dash for his van.
Villagers started dousing the fire before the arrival of six soldiers in the Green
Goddess which took nearly threequarters of an hour to make the journey from
Coldham’s Lane, Cambridge.

1952

Cambridge City Council are objecting to the County Council’s proposal to demolish
the Shire Hall courts at present suffering from dry rot; their consent is needed as
the building is scheduled as of special architectural or historic interest. Ald
Wilding thought it was hardly necessary to demolish the building just because of
some defects in the woodwork & Ald Taylor put forward a plan for preserving its
very fine façade, but Coun George Edwards said the best thing would be to demolish
it and have a new building erected in its place.

c.35.1

1927

Alfred Seaman, of Lt Chesterford told magistrates he was driving a steam tractor

and saw a lorry proceeding towards Saffron Walden. The lorry was travelling about
25 mph and he gave it plenty of room to pass. He looked back and saw it crash into
the Eight Bells public house. William Wright said he did not understand much about
speed but the lorry was travelling at a terrific rate, which caused it to skid. PC
Little said there were marks which showed it skidded 27 yards before it mounted the
pavement and crashed into the doorway of the public house.

1902

Col Harry Leslie Blundell McCalmont, M.P. for the Newmarket Division of
Cambridgeshire since 1895 died suddenly at his London residence. He served in South
Africa and received an injury to the head through which he was invalided home,
receiving on his arrival at Newmarket a remarkable reception from his constituents.
He was a well-known owner of racehorses & his racing stud is housed at Cheveley
Park. It was his custom to distribute thousands of head of game throughout the
country and was especially mindful of his poorer neighbours. There were many claims
upon his large fortune and he did much for the County Cricket Club which will be
one of the greater losers by his death.

Wednesday 11th December

1977

More than 300 trees at Byron’s Pool are to be felled because they have become
dangerous through disease and drought. Most are large, mature specimens and the
city council are calling in professionals to fell them. Officers say that the two
dry summers of 1975 and 1976, together with the rapid spread of Dutch elm disease,
has seriously damaged them

1952

The familiar voice of Ellis Powell – of Mrs Dale’s Diary fame – was heard coming
over a loudspeaker instead of a radio by a large crowd waiting outside the new
branch of the Co-op on the housing estate at Whitehill Road, Cambridge. Mrs Dale,
hatless, but looking warm in a fur coat over her royal blue dress, declared the new
store open. She was then the first customer of this modern self-serving grocery
store which also has butchery and fish departments attached. People flooded in
under the neon strip-lighting and, picking up baskets, made their way round the
well-packed shelves, which seem to include every grocery imaginable.

c.27.2

1927

Sir – the death of Mr Alfred Lander has cast quite a gloom over the Sigwick Avenue
– Silver Street bit of Cambridge. For many a year his familiar figure stood in all
weathers under his big old tree, sheltered by the wall, generally accompanied by a
robin or dog, his special friends. A casual passer-by might suppose he did nothing
but stand there holding his broom, but he was a very useful man. To the best of his
limited ability he was famous for going messages and taking care of this and that –
and all this above and beyond his ‘professional’ work as a crossing-sweeper (the
only unofficial one in the town). So afflicted, but such a simple, kindly and
cheery soul; accident made him a cripple in his childhood, and life must have been
a long struggle but of late things have been brighter again for him – A mourner

c.39

1902

The death of Colonel Harry McCalmont was received with incredulity in Newmarket and
it was not until the C.D.N. arrived that the news became generally known and
believed. At various business establishments the town blinds were down and the
billiards handicap at the Conservative Club was not proceeded with. His death will
mean a great loss but how seriously the town would be affected none were prepared
to say.

Thursday 12th December

1977

Cambridge City Council should consider linking with a private developer to build a
skateboard park & look at providing a beginners’ skateboarding area and practice
runs from the rates. A report says that contrary to some people’s beliefs
skateboarding is not just a passing phase. Areas like the Romsey recreation ground
and the King George playing fields at Trumpington would be suitable introductory
areas and Kings Hedges recreation ground and the disused bandstand on Christ’s
Pieces could be suitable for practising. But it would be difficult to get
permission to use the Elizabeth Way roundabout

1952
The Government has refused permission for Messrs W. Wisbey to excavate sand and
gravel from a field at Hauxton that the parish council wanted to use as a playing
field, but permission has been granted for working in three other fields, about 30
acres in all. They have laid down conditions designed to minimise the damage to the
amenities of the village.

1927

For some times the rivalries of various motor bus drivers plying for hire between
Newmarket and Burwell have been particularly keen, and there has been some trouble
that has got as far as the Police Court. A bus driver employed by Albert Norman of
Exning said he had got to the corner near the church at Burwell when an Ortona bus
passed, going 30 mph, and cut right in front of him, which necessitated him jamming
on his brakes to avoid an accident. The driver told him: “If you don’t let me pass
I shall smash the back of your bus in. That is just what you little people want, so
that you can get a new bus”. The magistrate said the rivalry among the bus drivers
was a danger to the public and must cease.

1902

An inquest was held at Denver concerning the death of Elihu Lewis, the father of Mr
H. Lewis, pianoforte dealer of Cambridge. The deceased, who was in his 70th year,
was riding his bicycle and in consequence of the machine skidding was thrown under
the wheels of a cart laden with corn. He was placed on a cart and taken home. A
doctor said he had received serious injuries which must prove fatal. The jury
returned a verdict of accidental death.

Friday 13th December

1977

Plans to save branch libraries from closure by moving careers advice offices into
Cambridge central library have angered librarians. Andrew Armour said the move
could lead to conditions as cramped as those in the old library in Wheeler Street.
“It seems that just as we were settling down to being librarians we are back in the
melting pot again”. It would mean moving the children’s & music libraries into the
lending library with possible closure of the picture loan service, closure of the
‘quick reference’ section and moving the Cambridgeshire Collection into the
reference library causing enormous disruption in services to readers.

c.77.4

1952

The Lord Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire (Capt R.G. Briscoe) spoke about the police
houses he had visited. Said he: “I would like to congratulate the County Architect
– those houses are absolutely first-rate. And what a first-rate lot of chaps the
Chief Constable has got. And I must congratulate those young chaps – what wonderful
young wives they have got”. Before Ald Stubbs could talk about increased costs in
building a police house the Chairman added: “I have been round every one of these
homes – and it is surprising what a wonderful lot of women these wives are”

1927

Time was when “a village library” implied a shelf or two of antiquated and goody-
goody books which had been discarded and presented by bygone residents who had
fixed opinions as to the literary fare appropriate for villagers. Nowadays the
books sent each quarter to a village can be selected by the residents, and their
quantity and quality have only one limit – the demand that exists. There is a
branch of the county library in every village, which means that everybody can now
obtain any book needed for study from the Central Library for Students. The amount
spent on a free library service which benefits every person in the community is not
likely to be grudged by ratepayers.

c.77.7

1902

The buildings of the Royston Infectious Hospital are practically completed. Situate
at the extreme end of Garden Walk it enjoys splendid isolation from the town – the
nearest dwelling house is a quarter of a mile away. The whole of the buildings are
surrounded by a six-foot fence and every consideration has been given, not only to
preventing the spread of infection, but the comfort of patients. The wards, male
and female, are spacious and comfortable. There is a bathroom with a portable bath
and a linen closet with ventilating shelves.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 16th December

1977

A Cambridge sociology lecturer says Government cutbacks are welcomed in East Anglia
as they provide the perfect excuse for councils to go on doing nothing. He found
low wages, a high cost of living and inadequate schools, social services and public
transport. The draconian restrictions on development, coupled with a fashion among
townies for living in the country has driven up house-prices and rents to the point
where land-workers either leave or accept tied cottages. In Suffolk
conservationists, hand in hand with farming interests ‘not only preserved hedgerows
and views, but low wages and inadequate housing provision’, he claims

1952

One of Saffron Walden’s few remaining oast houses has been partly pulled down. It
had stood in Messrs Sainsbury’s yard overlooking Audley Road for 150 years but
there was no further use for it and falling tiles had been a danger to people. The
building was still fairly sound except for the loose tiles and only the top half
will be removed. It was used for hop-drying as late as 1930.

1927

The Home of Mercy in Christchurch Street, Cambridge continues to do valuable work

for girls in need, both in material matters and spiritually. It is almost always
full & parents of the inmates express their gratitude for the care in training the
girls. Eighteen have been admitted during the past year and eight have been
provided with outfits, earned by good conduct marks, and placed out in service.
Four have been certified under the Mental Deficiency Act, two returned to their
friends, one refused to stay and one died of meningitis. Several have been
baptised, confirmed and admitted to Holy Communion; some had to be taught even the
Lord’s Prayer and many are admitted in a low condition of mental and bodily health.

c.32.9

1902

A meeting of residents in St John’s Ward, Cherry Hinton considered what support

could be given to a scheme for running a line of omnibuses into Cambridge. Now
buses had been taken off the road the value of their property would depreciate and
the new houses being built would not be let readily as people would not come down
that end of Cambridge if there were no buses. There was a possibility of their
finding sufficient money to run a line of buses themselves if 15 people put £10
each into the concern

c.26.46

Tuesday 17th December

1977

A big new development of houses for American servicemen is being planned for
Newmarket. George Wimpey Ltd is seeking permission to build 227 houses at Studlands
Park. A year ago the USAF announced it needed 600 houses and Forest Heath council
offered to help find them a site. The council could have the option to buy the
houses when the air force did not want them, at the price for which they were
built. But the Studlands Park Neighbourhood Council will oppose the scheme. “This
was intended to be a private development and self-supporting village in its own
right. This would make it into a mini Army base” the chairman said.

1952

The County Conservative and Horticultural Society is to ask whether arrangements

can be made for schoolchildren to assist in the potato harvest. There was a
shortage of labour and food was more essential than education in the case of boys
between 14 and 15. Last year they were allowed a week’s holiday, but a fortnight
would be better. They would like to see the summer holidays staggered with three
weeks at potato lifting time and three weeks at harvest time. The County MP said:
“I don’t think it does any harm to children that they should lend a hand in
gathering the potato or any other harvest. A very great deal of good is done by
allowing children, under the proper circumstances, to deal with things like that”

1927

The new font cover of Balsham church is the work of the Rector, Canon H. Burrell
and has taken eight years to build. It is a magnificent structure, reaching about
thirty feet from the ground, and hangs from the roof. It is a telescopic: the upper
portion is suspended as a permanent canopy over the font and the lower part, which
acts as the lid, is hung to it by a system of steel wire ropes and pulleys. For the
balance weight a 9.4 naval shell has been used.

1902

One of England’s most stately homes – Audley End – is to be let furnished. The
original building was much curtailed in 1726 but there still remains the large hall
with its minstrel gallery, the state apartments and the state bedrooms on the
ground floor, contrary to custom. There are magnificent pictures and portraits.

Wednesday 18th December

1977

Throughout the war Mrs May Webb was one of 40 ladies at Bassingbourn who worked to
provide snacks and hot drinks for American bomber crews from the nearby airfield.
But the old Church Room which housed the de-luxe soup kitchen is now lying damp,
dilapidated and forgotten. Now she is determined to see the building restored in
time for a commemorative service planned next year and feels it would provide a
useful community meeting place.

1952

No matter what the weather may be like, over 20 schoolchildren from Littlebury who
attend Saffron Walden Secondary Modern School have either to walk or find their own
transport. Essex County Council has withdrawn the bus service for children living
under three miles away and now the children never get home before 5 p.m. If it
rains the children have to keep their wet things on all day. One parent said: “If
this position continues, most people are going to keep their children away from
school”

1927

A conference is to discuss the problem of the accommodation of tramps at Cambridge

workhouse. In 1926 there was an alarming increase of over 5,000 which they hoped
was due to the general strike but this year the number had been exceeded. They
could deal with 60 male tramps but on one night had 118. They had to sleep on the
floor, between the beds and in the corridor and the arrangement for bathing,
searching, disinfecting and washing clothes became hopelessly inadequate. The
solution may be found in an agreement between the Cambridge and Chesterton Union to
pool resources

1902

The landlord of the Boot Inn, Histon had the very nasty experience of being tossed
by an infuriated bullock at Cambridge Cattle Market. The animal, a Scottish beast
with very long horns, was being driven into a pen when it broke away, caught Mr
Vialls with its horns and threw him over the rails into one of the pens. The horns
penetrated his trousers and made a scratch about seven inches long. The wild beast
was eventually safely secured and sold to Mr Mills of Cambridge without being
brought into the auction ring.

Thursday 19th December

1977

Nestling among the rose bushes in a well-kept front garden in the village of
Abbotsley is a petrol pump, which is fed from two tanks sunk under the front lawn.
It was in the garden before the Second World War when petrol was just 1s.6d. a
gallon. The proud owner, Mr Harry Smith, enjoys a handy supply of petrol on tap.
“It is always nice to have petrol, but it still costs us about 79p a gallon, so I
suppose there is no real reason for keeping it”, he said.

1952

Mr Donald McCullough appealed in “The Week’s Good Cause” on behalf of the Ely
Cathedral Restoration Appeal. He told listeners: “Ely Cathedral has been attached
by the Death-watch beetle and unless we can act quickly it will fall down. I
climbed up the lantern and stood there amongst the oak beams and I saw where they
had been eaten away by this devilish insect. I actually felt the wood crumbling in
my hand, and it was a horrible feeling. The good and generous people had just
raised £80,000 to restore their parish churches and increase the incomes of their
clergy when they made this awful discovery”

1927

Some of the best-known makes of motor cars are to be seen at Cox’s Motor Company,
Cambridge, the firm being agents for Armstrong-Siddeley, Riley and Vulcan. Their
showroom windows always attract the person interested in cars and accessories and
just now they are making a special feature of Riley models, including the San Remo
saloon at £265 and the Monaco model at £285. They also specialise in the Lea-
Francis cars.

c.26.48

1902

Cambridge Water Company sued Messrs Kerridge and Shaw for water supplied for a
building in course of construction in Rose Crescent, Cambridge. The supply recorded
by a water meter had increased from 78,000 gallons one quarter up to 220,000
gallons the next. A new meter was installed and consumption fell. They claimed the
old meter must have got out of order. But it was quite possible considering the
number of taps they were using that one was left running and the water wasted.

c.24.2

Friday 20th December

1977

The Spinners filled the 1,600-seat Cambridge Sports Hall for the second time this
year, with their Christmas show. They are a perfectly assured, wholly-professional,
middle-of-the-road group with a wide-ranging repertoire and pitched into a
selection of songs and carols including some of their hits like “The Family of
Man”. Audience participation is very much a part of the technique; they had the
people at the back drowning the rest of the audience in a four-part ‘round’ &
started a three-part medley with “While Shepherds Washed Their Socks by Night”

c.69

1952
More than 100 people watched a key being turned in a lock last night before they
entered the youngest Methodist Church in England. For that was how the Meadowlands
Church, sparkling cream-and-cosy, was described at the first service to be held in
the new building. Rev. W.H. Beales glanced over the congregation who had helped to
pay for the cream-painted church, at the small intimate organ in the corner and the
simple altar in light oak with its gleaming brazen cross & said the community of
Meadowlands owed these workers a debt which could never be repaid

c.83

1927

Many a charming gift can be purchased at a chemist’s shop. Ladies always find scent
very acceptable and at Messrs Campkin and Sons, Rose Crescent, Cambridge, there can
be obtained a choice selection of perfume. Soap and bath salts in dainty packages,
or toilet brushware are suggestions that may help to solve the gift problems for
those whose pockets are not very deep.

1902

At the spacious premises of Laurie and McConnal, Fitzroy Street, Cambridge readers
can secure anything they require for a seasonable gift. A special showroom is set
apart for the display of cards, pictures, books, toys, games etc and they have a
chose selection of mechanical toys which are quite a novelty in themselves. There
is also a variety of artificial grasses and plants which it would be difficulty to
tell from real; these would make very pretty decorations. There has just recently
been added a lending library which includes books of the best-known writers.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 23rd December

1977

Cambridge market is the logical starting point for the Christmas shopping trek:
it’s close to shops of every different kind, and is surrounded by banks. But
heading straight for the centre and hoping to find a parking space somewhere is a
mug’s game at the best of times. At Christmas it’s plain daft, although people
still do it. Traffic wardens are not so many Santa Clauses in disguise and you’ll
just end up going round the one-way system a few times … slowly. Or paying £6 for
the privilege of stopping.

1952

The first children’s Christmas party given by Pye Ltd since the war was held in the
Canteen, St Andrew’s Road, Cambridge, when more than 450 children of employees
thoroughly enjoyed themselves. After tea they were entertained by the antics of Mr
Shipp and then watched a marionette show presented by the Frith family of Histon.
This is a real family show with son Roger, 13, manipulating the puppets, Mrs Lilian
Frith making off-stage sounds and her husband Oliver providing the voices. Then
Father Christmas arrived with sacks of presents and the children went home – the
younger ones tired but happy

1927

Thousands of bottles of old ale, specially brewed for Trinity College and matured
in the college cellars, have been sent this Christmas to Cambridge men all over the
country. Trinity Audit Ale is declared by brewers to be the finest known. Every
year there is a big demand for it, but not a bottle is allowed to be sold to the
public and only present and past members of the college are allowed to buy it. The
ale is matured for two years before it is sold and treated with all the care of an
old wine. The recipe of the drink, which until fairly recently was brewed in the
college itself, is kept a secret.

c.27.4

1902

A good Christmas dinner is desired by all and Messrs Sturton Bros of Fitzroy
Street, Cambridge are open to provide everything required. A good fat turkey or
goose and a nice ripe Stilton cheese are their specialities. Their groceries are of
the very best quality and in the hardware department will be found a large display
of useful goods suitable for presents.

Tuesday 24th December

1977

Cambridge is not short of record shops, so what chance has another one got? The
answer, says Andy Gray, is plenty. His latest shop “The Beat Goes On” is something
out of the ordinary in that it caters for those interested in “golden oldies” and
New Wave records. They specialise in records up to the 1970s and have on display
portraits of “The Jam” who opened the shop on Friday. The new shop in Regent Street
supplements the premises opened in Mill Road three years ago and Andy’s Record
Stall on Cambridge market which is still a gathering place for music lovers.

c.69

1952

American airmen at Lakenheath contributed generously to their fund to provide

Christmas food parcels for old people living near the base. Nearly 500 old folk
will get a wonderful surprise when a U.S. airman knocks at their door and hands
over a gaily-wrapped hamper containing assorted Christmas fare worth about £2 6s.
The names of recipients have been selected from suggestions made by the W.V.S., the
Women’s Institutes and the British Legion

1927

Cambridgeshire County Council has written to the Cambridge Workhouse Infirmary

committee saying that a general authority could not be given for dentures to be
supplied to defectives maintained in the Institution. But if they were necessary in
special cases they would authorise the expense to be incurred. It was decided, with
expressions of satisfaction, to furnish the names of the inmates requiring
dentures, together with the estimated cost.

1902

Sir – most large towns are closing on Saturday and thus giving their employees a
splendid holiday. The plea against the Saturday holiday is that people are unable
to cater for four days but it appears that in the neighbouring town of March they
think differently, and if they can close there, surely we can here. The grocers’
assistants have put in a lot of extra time and I think our employers could give us
at least a half-day holiday – “Grocer”
Thursday 26th December

1977

The mystery of oriental activity on Cambridge’s Coe Fen deepened with proof that
its water margins abound in wild cress – and further evidence of Chinese
harvesters. Streams by the Leys School are virtually choked with watercress and one
resident told how she watched a group of 10 Chinese carefully cutting and bailing
the cress. Generations of Newtown people culled the Coe Fen paddy fields for their
own salads and there are memories of a professional cress gatherer, ‘Tug’ Wilson,
who operated before the First World War and sold it round the pubs and houses. He
used to have a wooden cart he towed along and people ate it because they thought it
was good for the blood.

c.18

1952

The inquiry into the County Development Plan has concluded. Its main object is the
preservation of Cambridge as a University town & the deliberate prevention of its
character becoming that of an industrial town or a town with large straggling
suburbs. The problem of Cambridge was largely a traffic problem but measures to
deal with this by the widening of streets would be a negation of the true object of
planning which is to preserve the Cambridge we know today

c.49.4

1927

Christmas in Cambridge was of the good, old-fashioned sort. A dreary, drizzly, cold
and miry Christmas Eve gave way to a fine rain which gradually changed to sleet and
the wind began to rumble hollowly in the chimneys. About noon a few snowflakes made
their appearance and by two o’clock the snow came swirling down, the air was filled
with large flakes and the outer world was whitening rapidly. Every tree and shrub
was a picture of wintry beauty and many of the eaves of the houses carried a fringe
of slowly-dripping icicles.

1902

The demand for electric light is continually on the increase and Messrs Millington
and Everett, King’s Parade, Cambridge, have a good show of high-class electric
lamps which they are selling at 1s. These lamps are guaranteed to be much more
economical than the ordinary electric lamp. Telephone and electric bells are also
well displayed here.

c.24.6
Friday 27th December

1977

Barkway gets a virtually new pub when The Chaise and Pair opens up again after
nearly a year. Ian Scott bought the former Whitbread Inn after it closed down last
February and after three month’s hard work he is ready to open the doors to the new
Free House. Younger’s Tartan and McKewans bitter will be supplemented by major
Green King brews, including mild, which is not easily available in the area.

1952
Following an inspection by South Cambs R.D.C. of some “no fines” concrete houses
they recommend the erection of 100 such houses in Sawston, and 50 in Duxford,
Linton and Bassingbourn. The houses were comfortable to live in and of a smaller
area that the type of house they had been building. They will not have to find any
labour for erection as the firm will supply the men who will probably be billeted
in the Trumpington National Service Hostel

1927

Cambridge Conservatives who, following the disastrous fire in Market Passage in

November last year, have been accommodated in temporary club premises in Petty
Cury, returned to the splendid new club which Phoenix-like has risen from the ashes
of the old premises. As before there is a fine lounge billiard room with four
tables on the top floor, and a fine lounge and smokeroom with secretary’s office
and card room adjoining. Two new rooms will be used as a reading and writing room
and a committee room. The colour scheme is brown and buff. The ground floor is not
yet complete but will consist of a large hall with a spring dance

c.33

1902

Messrs Bailey and Tebbutt, Brewers, Maltsters, Wine and Spirit Merchants, Panton
Brewery, Cambridge. Price List. Strong ale 1s.8d. (9p), Indian Bitter Ale 1s.4d.
(7p) & Stout 1s.2d. (6p) per gallon. Hennessey’s brandy 6s. (30p), John Walker’s
(Kilmarnock) whiskey 4s.1d. (20p), Very Old 1876 rum 3s.7d. (18p) per bottle –
advert

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 30th December

1977

Two 600-year-old wooden effigies were stolen from Hildersham church. The eight-foot
long effigies of a former lord and lady of the manor were the church’s most
treasured possessions and two of only 90 such monuments in the whole of the
country. They were carved out of oak and carried in front of the funeral
processions of the Bustlar family – lords of the manor in the early 14th century.
“They were the most treasured of all the beautiful things we have in the church and
we all feel absolutely shattered”, said a parishioner.

1952

Cambridge was “rather quiet” as far as Christmas shoppers were concerned. The
secretary of Joshua Taylor said they had fathers looking fondly and possessively at
boy’s train sets, girls examining intricately-mechanised farm tractors and boys
glancing critically at dark-eyed dolls. The most precocious doll will blow bubbles
and weep real tears, drink milk and needs nappies - and she carries a pipe in her
purse (for the bubbles). But the sturdy reliable walker was still the most popular
doll of all.

1927

Many of the main roads in the county were blocked with snowdrifts from six to ten
feet deep over Christmas. Trains, motor buses and cars were held up and travellers
stranded. The wheels of the mail vans were equipped with chains with the result
that hold-ups were uncommon, though one van on the Histon – Milton road had to be
dug out. A thatched cottage at Melbourn collapsed about seven o’clock in Sunday
evening. The bedroom end of the house fell out, but, happily, Mrs Greig was in the
bottom room and escaped injury. She would not move however until the policeman came
on Monday morning. She is now living in a cottage just opposite.

1902

During a lull in the traffic at Ely Railway Station, Sir George Newnes, the former
Liberal MP for East Cambs, addressed a gathering of railway men on the green
outside the station. The railway audience was augmented by citizens who gave their
former member a cordial welcome. The railway authorities, he said, had been very
kind in allowing the men to leave their work to hear him.

Tuesday 31st December

1977

It was the dawn of the atom age and in small, cluttered and uncomfortable rooms in
Cambridge great scientists set about a momentous experiment – splitting the atom.
The rooms then moved into the space age, but in one room time stood still as the
doors were locked at the top of the stairs of Lord Rutherford’s old Cavendish
Laboratory. Only the ghosts of the pioneers remained behind the doors and,
according to some, so did the deadly product of their work – radiation. Safety
experts have now gone into the room to remove every trace of radioactive material
but some are still unsure that the old building will be completely safe.

c.36.9

1952

Cambridge is the first city in the country to be able to see the latest model of
the Synchro Screen in action. This R.C.A. invention has been installed at the Rex
Cinema and will be a permanent feature. The new screen enhances the photography
giving it extra depth. It does not go the whole way to providing three-dimensional
pictures but is a great step forward. There are five similar screens now in
existence but the one at the Rex is the latest type and 2,000 people came along to
see it on Sunday.

c.76.9

1927
The Ortona motor buses had a terrible time in the blizzard. Two buses were stuck in
snowdrifts out Newmarket way, one near Teversham corner, a Willingham bus on the
Huntingdon Road near the Five Bells, a Caxton bus near Toft and a Saffron Walden
bus near Whittlesford station, where they remained many hours. Another bus got
nearly to Sawston before it got stuck and had to be dug out and the Fulbourn bus
could only get as far as the Robin Hood, Cherry Hinton. Relief gangs were sent to
the rescue of the stranded vehicles and they were being dug out and coming home one
by one.

1902

The Auckland Road Circus, Cambridge, has re-opened under the name of the Empire
Circus of Varieties and enjoyment of an excellent nature is assured at each
performance. Several excellent ‘turns’ are included in this week’s programme
including the London serio-vocalist comedian, George Egerton and the first
appearance in Cambridge of Leno, the midget comedian. The Great Dakota, an American
necromancer in original stage illusions, keeps the audience in wonderment and
laughter from the start.

c.76

Wednesday 1st January

1978

It pays to discover the shops in King Street, Cambridge. There are three antiques
shops and Andrew McCulloch’s and Hi-Fi for Pleasure do a wide range of sound
equipment. For records there is a choice between the instant-nostalgia shop,
Remember Those Oldies, who rather oddly sell punk records, and Garon Records – more
conventional with a good selection of bargain-price discs. The Cambridgeshire
Health and Beauty Salon offers a facial at £3.95, sauna at £2 or a manicure at
£1.50 and at Norman and Son you can still buy old-fashioned woolly long-johns.

1953

Cambridge welcomed the New Year in the traditional style and at all the City’s
ballrooms and dance halls dancers spent the midnight hour in the usual noisy, happy
manner. Everywhere there were capacity crowds. At the attractively decorated
Guildhall 500 witnessed the arrival of 1953 at a carnival dance with music by the
Astral All Stars Dance Orchestra. At the Cambridge University Assistants’ Annual
Dance at the Examination Hall 1,000 people danced to George Freestone and His Music
while at The Dorothy the music of Red Cottage’s Orchestra was relayed downstairs to
the café which was used as an extension to the ballroom.

1928

When Mr Arthur Deck fired the second rocket on Parker’s Piece on New Year’s Eve it
was his parting shot, for he was performing the ceremony for the last time. A
century-old custom, with which three generations of the Deck family have been
associated, will fall into abeyance. Before the war the rockets used to be sent up
at the entrance to King’s College but in 1913 the stick attached to one of the
rockets fell through a glass roof of a college and did appreciable damage so he
changed the scene of operations to Parker’s Piece.

c.39

1903

Young men and matrons, old men and children, gathered on King’s Parade, Cambridge,
at midnight to speed the dying year and welcome the new. Everyone was waiting for
Alderman Deck who left his house a few minutes before the hour, carrying the
rockets, to see the flight of which so many people flock to the Parade. Standing in
front of King’s gate the venerable alderman lighted the rockets and the crowds
broke into hearty cheers.

c.39

Thursday 2nd January

1978

The only barber in Burwell still to practice the art of shaving is retiring. Tom
Ellis of High Street has been hairdresser in the village for more than 50 years and
still has regular customers coming in for a shave. He said: “I don’t know what some
of the old men will do now because they can’t shave themselves, even with a modern
razor. Before the war my father used to collect a few papers for the people in the
village who could read, which wasn’t many. When I started we used to collect them
from the train, but when the station closed the Burwell and District bus used to
drop them off here. Now the van brings them and we sell something over 500 papers a
night.”

1953

In the oil-lit schoolroom at Toft on Thursday before Christmas, the chairman of the
Parish Council pressed a button, and electricity came to the village. The school
was crowded for the official switching-on ceremony. The original proposals were
made in 1939 but were held up by the war. With the nationalisation of the supply
industry a programme for orderly development was drawn up. Toft and Caldecote were
among the first villages in the Cambridge district to receive a supply, which would
serve about 70 consumers. They welcomed the arrival of electricity and looked
forward to the enjoyment of its many advantages. There were demonstrations of
domestic appliances and cookery and washing machines.

1927

At the annual dinner of the Cambridge Motor Club Mr King said that 32 years ago
there was only one motor car in Cambridge, the owner being the Hon C.S. Rolls, then
a student at Trinity College. He had seen him riding in the car with a friend with
another man walking in front with a red flag. The speed was two miles an hour in
the town and four miles per hour in the country. He did not know what some of them
would do if that regulation came in force again.

c.26.48

1903

Ely Rural Council’s surveyor prepared a plan of the Grunty Fen road showing the
proposed building at Wilburton station by the G.E.R. Company. Mr Pell said it was a
one-storey building and the man was frequently complaining of the dampness of the
house. It would be better if the Company would run up a second storey. It was going
to be a very expensive matter to force them to remove the building. They agreed to
withdrawn their opposition provided the Railway Company undertook they would not
further advance their buildings to the south-west corner of the station.

Friday 3rd January

1978

Three publicans are so alarmed by the prospect of trouble at punk rock concerts in
Cambridge Corn Exchange that they will close or guard their premises on the nights
of the shows. Their concern follows two concerts when four youths were taken to
hospital after a fight and a shop window was smashed. The licensee of the Eagle
said “It was absolutely dreadful: all the London trains were full of punk rockers
coming to Cambridge because all the other towns have banned them. They spit and
strip on stage”. The groups on stage that night were the Ramones and the Rezillos,
two American bands.

c.69

1953

In a field at the rear of the University Rugby ground a team of Cavendish

Laboratory workers, led by Mr. M. Ryle, have set up a station for the study of the
very weak cosmic radio waves which are reaching the earth from outer space. This
new study has become known as radio astronomy and the large aerial systems used are
now known as radio telescopes. Since 1946 the Cavendish have pioneered observations
in this new branch of astronomy. The construction of a large version of the
telescope would have involved great expense, but in conjunction with Mr D. McKay an
entirely new method of constructing the aerial was devised which enabled it to be
built at a fraction of the cost.

c.36.9 # OBSERVATORY

1927

A serious fire broke out at the Edison Bell Gramophone Factory, Huntingdon, as a
result of which 400 employees, the majority girls, are thrown out of work. The
flames spread with great rapidity and as the majority of the buildings were of wood
they were soon caught in the blaze. The works are the property of Messrs Hough
Bros, the well-known gramophone record makers of Camberwell and have been in
existence a little over three years. They have also added the manufacture of
wireless appliances. Lost in the fire were many valuable stocks of records and
electrical apparatus.

1902

Ely football team paid their first visit to the enclosure of the Haverhill Rovers,
and after a somewhat scrambling game were defeated. Give-and-take play followed for
a time, good back play on both sides preventing the goalkeepers being troubled.
Woodward had a good opening but the muddy state of the ground caused him to slip
whilst E.R. Evans was tripped by Arber when he had got away. The final score was
Rovers 5, Ely 0.

2003

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 6th January

1978

A tornado cut a two-mile swathe through Newmarket. Roofs were ripped off buildings,
windows smashed and cars overturned. Every window in the railway station signal box
was smashed. Chief Inspector Trevor Hewitt of Newmarket police said: “It’s a
disaster area. It was just a freak storm and only lasted a couple of minutes. The
damage is appalling. Roofs have caved in, windows have been smashed and cars
overturned”. In Cambridge the wind lifted the roof from a house in King Street.

c.12

1953

About 200 cups of tea were served to bargain hunters as they queued waiting for the
opening of the Belfast Linen Store’s January sale. The queue started to form along
St Andrew’s Street soon after 5 a.m. and the long, chilly vigil was relieved by a
welcome cup of piping hot tea at about 8 o’clock. It was dispensed from a van
supplied by Hobb’s Pavilion, Parker’s Piece. First bargains to go were quilt sets
slashed from 12 to four guineas, spring interior mattresses reduced to £3 19s. and
pillow cases at 1s. each.
1928

The rapid thaw has caused one of the worst floods at St Ives for many years. Low-
lying parts of the town are flooded. The scene at the old bridge was a magnificent
one as the ice on the river broke up into huge masses and hurled themselves with
considerable force against the old buttresses, becoming piled up for many feet. The
iron railway bridge near Enderby’s was only a few inches higher than the water
level. Wadsworth’s steps and Mr Days boathouse were washed away and some of the
boats damaged. The floods extended for many miles.

FLOOD

1903

Polling took place for the election of a Member of Parliament for the Newmarket
division. Motor cars and carriages, the horses decorated with blue and pink favours
were continually passing up and down Newmarket High Street. A motor car containing
a number of labouring men pulled up at the polling station just after 8am, and as
time went on the motors and carriages increased in number; at times as many as four
motors could be seen in the street at one time. Some contained ladies who did their
best to encourage reluctant voters to poll and in the majority of cases their
persuasive powers were not used in vain.

c.33.3

Tuesday 7th January

1978

The signal box at Newmarket railway station, which was badly damaged in the
tornado, has been demolished. In half-an-hour a mechanical digger managed what the
freak winds had failed to do – reduce the wooden building to a heap of torn timber.
It was right in the path of the tornado which shifted it on its foundations and
smashed most of the windows. After the early morning trains had passed through the
station the digger set to work tearing the box apart. A temporary hut has been
erected and the equipment needed to operate the points and signals installed. It
will be used while British Rail decides on the provision of a new one.

c.12 # c.26.1

1953

Cambridge will be one of the first cities in England to be lit almost entirely by
“sodium” street lighting. And, said the Mayor, it will be one of the best-lighted
in the world. A motorist can appreciate sodium lighting better than any pedestrian
can. Black spots and fog are obliterated. Trunk roads will be lit, stopping at the
inner ring-road, as this type of light is not thought suitable for the historic
city centre. A completely new type of lantern is being used which gives an
exceptionally high light output in relation to the electrical energy consumed.

c.24.8

1928

The Old West River at Stretham Bridge was brimming over by mid-day. Several of the
cottages near the bridge had been invaded by the water which was lapping each side
of the road & trickling over the top of the banks in one or two places. The water
on the west side of the road was above the level of the roadway and was only held
back by the low bank at the side of the road, through which it was forcing its way
in thin trickles. A gang of men was busy stopping the leaks with gault but in one
or two places a few inches of water lay partly across the road.

FLOOD

1903

At the kennels of the Puckeridge Hunt a tame fox belonging to Mr E. Barclay, the
master, has lived in luxury and ease from infancy. Two months ago Reynard broke the
chain with which he was fastened up at night and made good his escape. It was
feared it might meet with its death when the packs were hunting but two men saw
what they took to be a collie dog, called it and it stopped. They took it to
Hitchin police station where the identity of its owner was discovered by the name
on the collar. The fox was conveyed by train to Royston and reunited with its
master

c.38 : hunting

Wednesday 8th January

1978

The impact of the tornado which unleashed tremendous energy, sufficient to rip up
fully-grown trees along the edge of Newmarket cemetery and fling them about like
bowling pins, was almost identical to tornado activity which occurred in May 1950 &
caused considerable damage around Sutton and blew over a double-decker bus. Tornado
tracks were plotted from near Hemel Hempstead, through Bedford, St Ives, Earith,
Sutton, Witcham and Coveney. Cambridgeshire is a good tornado and thunderstorm
region. The 50-odd destructive tornadoes in the British Isle from 1868 to 1950 were
the most numerous in the eastern lowlands of England.

c.12

1953

About 100 Fulbourn children are victims of a measles epidemic, which has swept
through the village. Miss A. Featherstone, a district nurse, said the first
outbreak occurred on December 9th and since then she has had batches of under 11’s
suffering from the disease. Because of the outbreak few Fulbourn children have
enjoyed the fun of a Christmas party; there were so many of them in bed. One
villager said: “The children have been going down with it like ninepins”. But an
official of the County Medical Department said: “A measles epidemic? No, I’ve heard
nothing. It must be a rumour”

c.21.1

1928

The Home Secretary has decided to discontinue the Cambridge prison on Castle Hill
and has offered it to the County Council for £4,812. The buildings consist of a
central block comprising laundry, workshop, kitchen, labour cells, ladder store,
hospital, photographers’ hut, execution shed, schoolroom and governor’s house. The
Office of Works wishes to lease the main buildings to store their records in. This
would not prevent the council in the future from building a new county hall on the
prison site.
c.34.9

1903

Saffron Walden rural council categorised its roads in four groups: main, (County
Council) roads with which they have no concern; chief roads on which the traffic is
considerable and heavy, such as those from Stump Cross and Ashdon to Walden;
secondary roads in which the traffic is slight, such as that from Littlebury
towards Ickleton, and accommodation roads leading to one or more farms or houses
but with no through traffic, such as Cates’ Lane in Ashdon and Building End lane in
Chrishall.

Thursday 9th January

1978

A plan by a Cambridge businessman to build a skateboard track on a field in

Chesterton Fen Road has been turned down by planners. Mr Gordon Cave asked for
permission to use one acre of the field but the plan was rejected on the grounds
that the site had bad access and is two-thirds of a mile from the nearest bus stop.
The majority of users would be schoolchildren, many of them young and
unaccompanied, and the road had no footpath. But Coun. Peter King said: “It would
be disastrous to be over-protective where young people are concerned. They are not
bothered about a bit of mud or a walk from the bus stop. It would be better to
offer a skateboard park here than nowhere”.

1953

The Vicar of Over sprang a surprise on Sunday night when he announced that he had
tendered his resignation. “My chief reasons are financial and family”, he told his
congregation. His salary had been raised to £500 but this is dependent on the
parish meeting its quota. “Over could have raised this had the parish wished to do
so, but there is no will to make the exertion. If a parish which is in a position
to find the money to pay a share of its priest’s stipend refuses to do so, it
should not have the services of a full-time priest”, he said. “In the old days two
maids and a gardener were employed to tend the vicarage. I am not prepared to go on
seeing my wife trying to do the work of mistress of the house, mother and two
maids, and as a reward suffer the privations of grinding poverty.”

c.82.01

1928

Hardwick is the poorest parish in the district. The road in the centre of the
village was not fit to be called a road at all. It was one of the most dangerous,
treacherous, roads in England & was getting narrower. Application for purer water
had been made in March 1899 but it was still unsatisfactory. They had applied for
eight houses in 1919 but none were built. There were people in the village at
present times whose children were living in other houses.

1903

Cambridge tradesmen complain bitterly of the tipping system in vogue by the

‘Varsity men by which they are compelled to pay blackmail on a very extensive
scale. There is quite an army of college servants clamouring for tips and all must
be satisfied if the tradesmen wishes to keep his University clients. The college
porter ‘farms’ for Freshmen’s lists. The minimum price for a list is 1s. Then there
are the bedmakers, gyps and shoeblacks, all of whom expect to receive presents from
the shops where ‘their gentlemen’ give orders.

c.36.9 # c.27.2

Friday 10th January

1978

Four Cambridgeshire policemen are trying to get on the right beat as much as
possible – even when they are not working.. Off duty they make up “Copper Plate”,
one of the few all-policemen music groups in the country. The group started when
two members got to talking about music while in their patrol car. At the moment
they are playing about one booking a month to audiences ranging from a village
pantomime to more than 400 people at a dance in St Ives. One member said: “It
sometimes surprises us that we actually manage to get together even for a practice,
let alone a booking, with us all working different places and different shifts. We
like to think of ourselves as being a versatile music and harmony group able to
play anything from Beatles to barber’s shop”

c.69

1953

After a six-months stay in Cambridge 16 excited Greek children left for their own
country. They came here from war-shattered Greece in the summer of last year and
stayed with families under the auspices of the Cambridge Committee of International
Help for Children. They met and played with English children, they attended school
and as the months passed their frail forms filled out and they became normal
healthy children

c.33

1928

A gale swept through Cambridge & telephone communication to all places was lost,
with the exception of direct traffic to London. Three large windows at the front of
Eden Baptist Church, Fitzroy Street, were blown in and the wreckage smashed three
front seats in the gallery. The flag staff at Great St Mary’s church snapped under
the pressure of the high wind. Cyclists who attempted to battle against the
elements were almost stationary on their machines. In Hills Road an errand boy was
blown from his bike and sustained a cut knee. In the flooded areas the wind whipped
the water into whirling maelstroms.

c.12

1903

In many villages the number of houses licensed to supply intoxicating drink is out
of all proportion to the reasonable requirements of the population, with one to
about 150 of the population. Many cannot by any possibility be profitable, they
contribute practically nothing to the public and they may become a source of danger
to individuals. There can be no good reason for a continuation of their existence
and magistrates have decided to effect a reduction

c.27.4
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 13th January

1978

An overnight storm left more than 10,000 consumers without power; the Eastern
Electricity area manager said: “I’ve called everyone of all duties except restoring
supplies and have 300 men on the job. I had to call my men off at midnight because
the conditions were so bad with trees crashing down all over the place”. Road
clearance operations were hampered by heavy rain, which washed away the salt and
grit laid on frozen roads earlier. In Cambridge the wind speed was enough to blow
out the gable end of a three-storey house at Mitcham’s Corner and a bus was blown
off the Sawston road by high gusting winds.

c.12

1953

A well known figure for many years, Mr Robert Pierce, has died. He joined the old
Cambridge Electric Supply Company in 1908 as manager and engineer and stayed until
1938 when he retired and was placed on the Board of Directors where he remained
until the industry was nationalised in 1948. In his own private workshop he built a
good deal of the equipment used at Addenbrooke's Hospital in the early days of X-
ray.

c.24.6

1928

Everybody’s buying parachutes. They are war-time parachutes purchased from the Air
Ministry and are being sold at the business establishment of a well-known Cambridge
alderman. A friend of mine dropped in to purchase one and was interest to note the
date and place of origin stamped on each. The inscription in black lettering reads:
“W. Holmes and Son Ltd, Orwell, Cambs”. The date was 28th November 1918, just after
the Armistice. It is a curious coincidence that these parachutes made for war
purposes a few miles from Cambridge had come back nine years later to be sold in a
Cambridge emporium for the practical uses of motor car covers, dust-sheets, tents
and the like

c.26.1 # c.45.5

1903

Newmarket Urban Council have received a letter from Messrs Beasley, son and Nichols
asking for a cheque to be drawn in settlement of their outstanding account; unless
they receive a cheque in the next week they will place the matter in the hands of
their solicitors. They are to reply that the council’s account is overdrawn and
they do not have unlimited credit, but the bill would be paid as soon as they got
the money.

Tuesday 14th January

1978

It could cost up to £8,000 to repair the gaping hole left after storms tore down
part of the 500-year-old east wall of Yelling Church on to the altar, damaging
brass candlesticks but miraculously leaving unscathed a framed tapestry of the Last
Supper hanging behind it. The Rev Mark Bishop said: “Although there were cracks in
it there was nothing to give any clue that would happen”. A tarpaulin was being
used to cover the damaged wall and the Sunday service will be going ahead.

c.82.01

1953

A minimum wage of £7 a week without any alteration in hours was demanded at the
annual meeting of the National Union of Agricultural Workers in Cambridge. It was
needed in order to meet the increasing cost of living and to bring wages into line
with those enjoyed by workers in other industries. They also asked |Government to
abolish the tied cottage system and bring rural houses up to standard.

c.22

1928

A fire broke out at a bungalow at Caldecote known as ‘South View’, home of John
Smith, a market gardener. The building which was of two storeys consisted of four
rooms and a lean-to attached. Owing to its exposed situation and the strong wind
that was blowing the fire blazed with great fury and pieces of burning material
were blown towards Manor Farm. Police and villagers did what they could but as its
interior was match-boarded it was impossible to save the bungalow, which was
completely destroyed. Only the iron framework and corrugated iron roofing and part
of the lean-to is remaining. Even the concrete slabs of the walls were levelled to
the ground. It was warmed by a stove, the chimney of which went up through the
flooring of the bedroom above and it is believed that the high wind drawing up the
fire in the stove overheated the pipe.

c.34.75

1903

Royston Fire Brigade only received one call to a fire last year, at Mr Ebbutt’s in
the High Street. The hose was in good condition, as were both the engines, although
the wheels of the old engine were unsafe and needed repairing. In consequence of
the death of Mr Matthews they were without a Captain; James Course, the foreman,
should be asked to accept the post as he took a great deal of interest in the
Brigade. A key should be provided and placed in a box with a glass front outside
the station so as to give members of the Brigade an opportunity of gaining
admission in case of a fire, instead of having to wait the arrival of the captain.

c.34.75

Wednesday 15th January

1978

The bells of Pampisford church will soon be able to ring full circle – something
they have not done in living memory. Four bells were taken down for renovation in
1975, along with the rotten wooden frame. Now a new steel frame has been put in to
hold the bells. The old tenor bell, dating back to 1743, has been melted down and
the metal added to that of a bell from the redundant church at Papworth St Agnes to
make the first three bells. The original three bells dated about 1848 have been
retuned to make up the set of six.

c.69 : bells
1953

Cambridge Guildhall became a fairyland of soft lights and sweet music for the
annual ball of Cambridgeshire County Police. Tasteful carpeting and curtaining,
coupled with colourful floral decorations, gave the ballroom a warm, welcoming
atmosphere when one stepped from the raw, misty night outside. And the remarkable
centre-piece, a fountain surmounted by a crown and outlined in colourful lights
provided a charming reminder of the coming Coronation, besides adding gaiety to the
scene. On the stage the Stirlingaires Orchestra played a polished and well-balance
programme of music with Julie Butler signing the vocal refrains.

1928

A break 35 yards long in the bank of the Little Ouse river, two miles below Wilton
Bridge near Lakenheath, occurred shortly after midnight. The Ouse Drainage Board
engineers are on the spot with boats laden with gault and a gang of men are working
hard to stop the leak. The floods are still rising in the Fen district. The
situation is serious but no further breaks are reported. The banks are being
carefully watched and weak spots have been strengthened and it is hoped they will
hold out.

c.29 FLOOD

1903

The Directors of the Great Eastern Railway Company have replied to the petition
asking them to use the old station at Newmarket for some of the race traffic. They
remind the inhabitants that the large and costly station recently erected was the
outcome of constant representations from the racing community who complained about
the inconveniences of the old station. Keen competition has arisen during the past
ten years through the establishment of race meetings at such places as Sandown and
Lingfield resulting in the falling off of numbers attending Newmarket Meetings.
This influenced their decision to build a large new station affording every
facility to race goers as near the course as possible. The late Colonel McCalmont
had planned to develop the land alongside for building purposes and thus add to the
prosperity of Newmarket as a residential place.

c.26.2

Thursday 16th January

1978

A councillor went into battle to save three 17th-century cottages at Orwell – armed
with a drawing and the heart of an oak tree. Coun. Peter King had sketched the
cottages, which had been bought by the District Council in 1966 for £13,000 & were
now worth £90,000 for council house building. They could be fully restored and the
council would make a profit. He held up a small lump of wood which came from a ship
which fought the Spanish Armada to show how strong the cottage timbers were. The
council had recommended the cottages be pulled down to make way for an old people’s
housing development, but now they will remain standing.

1953

A large number of Cambridge people have made applications to the City Council for
licences to build their own homes, since the Government announcement that anyone
could build a house of up to 1,000 square feet. Circulars have been sent to all
people on the council housing list asking them if they want to build. Provided the
authority is satisfied that the cost of erecting a house is reasonable the licence
is granted automatically. The cost of building a house is about £1,300 and with the
aid of a mortgage comes within the scope of an £8-a-week wage-earner. It is
possible to have more expensive fittings than those generally used in council
houses; if a bath in a council house costs £5 a person wanting to install one
costing £25 would be allowed the difference in building his own house.

c.23

1928

An outbreak of small-pox is reported at Doddington Workhouse; there are six cases

at present. The first was that of an ordinary casual and since his entry into the
Institution four other male inmates and one nurse have been stricken with the
disease. As there is no isolation hospital or isolation ward the situation is
viewed with alarm. We are asked to emphasise that the Institution is closed to all
tramps.

c.32.9 # c.21.1

1903

A sad skating fatality occurred at Cowbit Wash, at a point known as Brotherhouse

Bar, about six miles from Spalding. A young lady, her brother and a man to whom she
was engaged started off towards Crowland, skating on the new river which runs
through the Wash. The water here is very deep and the ice giving way, all three
fell in. Every effort was made to rescue them but the girl was drowned and the two
men were in imminent danger, one of them being taken from the water in an exhausted
condition. The deceased was the daughter of the district manager of the Wombwell
Main Colliery Company.

c.38 : skating

Friday 17th January

1978

Cambridge City Council has told a group of Peterborough councillors to stop

interfering in their affairs. The slanging match was prompted by the Cambridge Kite
development project. The Peterborough councillors want to avoid a repeat of what
has happened in part of their city when redevelopers moved in and put up “a lot of
horrible concrete buildings all over the place”. But the advice has upset members
of the panel who are overseeing the Kite project. One said: “I would tell
Peterborough to mind its own business; they should put their own house in order and
I would thank them for not trying to tell us what to do”

KITE

1953

Work on the roundabout at East Road corner with Newmarket Road, Cambridge, has been
in progress for about five weeks; it is hoped it will be completed in another six.
Before long the traffic lights will be removed and the centre of the junction will
be sealed off so that the roundabout can be erected. Traffic will still be able to
use the crossing, as by then the road surface at the corners will have been filled
in.

1928
During the gales the terrific wind partly demolished the Baptist Chapel at
Needingworth, a large brick and tile building erected in 1861, and rendered the
remainder of the structure unsafe. The tiles were blown in all directions through
the air and wrecked property all around. The plate glass windows of Mr Bedford’s
shop opposite were broken and Mrs Bedford’s kitchen stove (an Eagle range) was
shifted about two feet by the heavy concussion of tons of falling masonry. Windows
were also smashed at the houses of Mr R & W.J. Senescall which adjoin the chapel on
the other side. Several trees were also blown down and the telegraph wires were
broken.

c.12 # c.82.05

1903

Samuel Sleigh, formerly occupier of the Blue Boar Hotel, Trinity Street, Cambridge,
sued an architect for damages. In 1899 he took the lease of the Blue Boar which was
very much out of repair, both structurally and otherwise. Trinity College, the
owners, recommended Coulson and Lofts to carry out alterations and consented to
expend £3,000, but no more. When the costs went over budget he had been sued for
the extra but claimed the architect had been negligent. His case was dismissed

c.27.4
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 20th January

1978

Shoppers at St Neots fled screaming when a man shot a woman in a busy town centre
supermarket. Police threw a cordon around the High Street Co-op store as the man
stood over his victim who lay bleeding on the tiled floor. For almost an hour
terror reigned. Frightened shop assistants hid in an upstairs office while outside
the building police kept crowds of passers-by away from the plate glass windows.
Then, just before 11.30 the man gave himself up, police moved in and an ambulance
took the injured woman to hospital

1953

King’s College head porter, Albert Powell, was granted a possession order for his
house in Marshall Road. He had bought the house in 1919. In 1936 he was made head
porter at King’s College, which necessitated him living in the porter’s lodge. In
1938 he let the house to the present tenant but told him he would want it when he
retired. Mr Powell was asked: “Would you stay at King’s if you could not get
possession of the house; you are still full of fight and able to cope with
undergraduates”. He replied: “No, I am 66 now”

c.44.5

1928

A meeting was held to consider collaboration between the Cambridge and Chesterton
Unions in the alleviation of the tramp problem. For some reason very few tramps go
to Chesterton but very many go to Cambridge which is very seriously overcrowded.
The indoor poor of the two unions should be managed by one committee who would
gather together all the sick, all the babies, all the children and all the tramps
and distribute them between the two existing union houses as seemed most
convenient.
c.32.9

1903

An inquest was held at Spalding touching the death of a young lady drowned whilst
skating on Cowbit Wash. Her brother had made very gallant attempt to save her but
there were two farm labourers only yards away. They could have saved his sister but
they would not help. If only they had taken their coats off they might have reached
them and got the girl out, but they stood looking on like cowards. He never saw
such cowardice in his life. The jury strongly condemned their conduct, though who
they were no one seemed to know.

c.38 : skating

Tuesday 21st January

1978

Cambridge United have appointed club coach John Docherty team manager and made
assistant manager Paddy Sowden general manager in a move to fill the gap left by
the former manager Ron Atkinson’s move to West Bromwich Albion. Docherty was
appointed by Atkinson after quitting as Brentford manager in a clash with the
London club’s chairman early last season. He joined in a part-time capacity but was
given a full-time one-year contract in recognition of his contribution to United’s
successful playing style. A former Brentford, Notts County, Reading and Queen’s
Park Rangers forward, Docherty turned down the chance to join First Division
Leicester as youth coach earlier this season.

c.38 : football

1953

A new type of draught excluder fitted to a Trinity College undergraduates’ sitting

room was so effective that nobody was aware it was on fire. The occupant was
sleeping peacefully while in the adjoining room furniture and floorboards were
ablaze. Smoke pouring from the fire was prevented from penetrating to the bedroom
by the draught excluders recently fitted. The sound of crackling timbers woke a
student on the floor below who gave the alarm. Undergraduates from other rooms on
the staircase ran to safety but it was only after a ladder was raised to the first-
storey bedroom that the sleeping man was roused.

c.34.75 # c.44.5

1923

The Toft carrier, Mr John Chapman, lost his balance when getting into his cart
while owing to a strong gust of wind, and fell heavily, striking his head on the
ground. For the past 43 years as a carrier and egg and poultry dealer he has
regularly attended the Cambridge market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Although 78
years of age he was a man of exceptional vitality, able to carry on his business
with all the energy and vigour of his former days.

c.26.4

1903

The frost-bound ground prevented any football being played at Haverhill. The Rovers
were due to play Bury Alexandra, but thinking the ground would be unfit they did
not make the journey. The Bury team and the referee, however, made an appearance,
and the latter declared the ground fit for play. The matter will therefore come
before the West Suffolk League Committee and be dealt with in the usual way

Wednesday 22nd January

1978

Laurie & McConnal’s department store in Fitzroy Street, Cambridge, opened its doors
for the last time as the auctioneers moved in, just over a month after closing.
Between 200-300 people milled around the five floors as the left-overs of almost
100 years of trading went under the hammer. Most of the faces were strangers, but a
few of the old employees called in just to pay their respects. The sale will strip
the building down to its last box of light bulbs – even part of a tin of toilet
soap was in the catalogue. According the agents the building itself has attracted a
few offers around the asking price of £250,000, but no-one has signed anything yet.

c.27.2

1953

Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, accompanied by Princess Margaret, paid a surprise
visit to Cambridge to call at Mr Stanley Woolston’s antique shop in St Andrew’s
Street. News of their coming was a secret, but a handful of people appreciated the
significance of the ‘No Waiting’ signs & when the sleek Royal car drew up a crowd
of about 200 had been attracted to the scene. The Queen Mother, fresh and charming
as ever, returned the cheers of the crowd with a smile and a friendly nod. Princess
Margaret, demure, attractive and smiling followed her mother into the shop which
has now enjoyed Royal patronage for a great many years.

c.02

1928

An inquiry was held into proposals to alter the charges for stalls on Cambridge
market. There were 112 stalls, 64 of which were interior stalls but some,
particularly those at the four corners of the market were more valuable than
others. The present charge was 2s. 6d. per day and it was proposed to increase it
to 6s. 10s for corner stalls, with frontage stalls increased to 4s.8d and the
interior stalls raised to 3s. 4d. But the proposals had not been received with
enthusiasm by the traders.

c.27.3

1903

Ely court heard that an eleven year old boy was employed to ride a horse attached
to a machine which was cutting beans in a field in Grunty Fen when another lad fire
a gun at some rabbits. This frightened the horse and the boy was thrown upon the
knives, which cut off his left arm and two fingers of his right hand. There was a
considerable argument as to the wages for a boy of 11 years; he had earned 1s.6d.
the day before for driving cows whilst 2s. a day was a harvest wage, and not the
standard wage. Compensation was fixed at 3s. a week as long as he was
incapacitated.

CHILDREN

Thursday 23rd January

1978

For thousands of Cambridge holidaymakers the North Norfolk coast is their summer
playground. But today they are wondering if it’s worth making any plans for the
1978 season. Hunstanton’s 110-year old pier has gone, most of it finishing up at
Heacham, and the amusement arcade on the front was heavily damaged by a storm. It
could cost half a million pounds to rebuild and is not a worthwhile investment. At
Wells the most spectacular sight was the placement on the prom of the 120-ton
coaster, The Function.

1953

Cambridge city council have asked the County not to demolish the old Assize Courts
which are at present closed because of dry rot. As it is a building of special
architectural interest further consideration should be given to its preservation.
Dry rot does not necessarily involve the demolition of the whole structure of an
affected building – none of the Colleges have had to demolish their buildings,
though many of them have been affected from time to time. But the County says there
is no assurance that further infection could be prevented. They intend to re-erect
the façade of the building elsewhere

c.34.9

1923

An inquiry was held into Cambridge council’s application to borrow money for the
purchase of property in Peas Hill for an extension of the Guildhall. There was an
increase of administrative staff and the offices were not adequate to enable the
duties to be carried out efficiently. With the acquisition of the property the
Corporation would hold the entire island site which would facilitate the suggested
scheme for the reconstruction of the Guildhall. They had been met in a conciliatory
spirit by the owners of the property and a favourable provisional agreement had
been arrived at.

c.35.7

1903

The visit of General Sir John French will remain memorable for his reception by all
sections of the inhabitants. The famous cavalry leader was sought after, first at
the railway station when he arrived and later when he proceeded to the Guildhall
where he received the freedom of the Borough. Lord Kitchener’s is the first name on
the roll of Cambridge Freemen and its fitting that the name of General French
should follow his illustrious Commander in the South African war. Many who have
already been presented with the freedom have served under him and learned to admire
him as an ideal commander who never asked them to do what he was not prepared to do
himself.

c.02 # c.35.7 # c.45.4

Friday 24th January

1978

Dozens of public libraries throughout Cambridgeshire will double up as social and

community centres if a pilot scheme is a success. They could be used as meeting
centres, law and political ‘surgeries’, advice centres, or simply as places where
young mothers or elderly people with time on their hands could meet and chat over
cups of tea. The social and community uses would run alongside the general library
function as much as possible – but would also continue after library hours. The
Mill Road branch library in Cambridge, which is threatened with closure, would be
an ideal site for the pilot scheme. The county council sees the dual-use project as
a way of raising extra cash for buying books for the libraries, which are
threatened with severe cuts because of cuts in Government grants

c.77.7

1953

A decision to build a new £100,000 telephone exchange in Cambridge was revealed at

the annual Christmas party of the male telephonists of Cambridge G.P.O. It will be
quite a big new building, in Trumpington Road. Mr G.S. Cumming, the Chief Night
Supervisor, said that the night telephonist’s job was very important and evening
calls provide the greatest degree of happiness that the telephone service gives.
During the night most of the calls were vitally important. His staff were really
wonderful and their wives had a lot to do with it – they sent the men to work
happy.

c.27.7

1923

Reports from the flooded areas in the Fens show that the water is gradually
subsiding. The position at the break in the bank of the River Wissey at Hilgay was
unchanged. Water was still pouring through the gap and no attempt could be made at
present to stop it. The arrival by rail of 10,000 more sandbags is being awaited.
Men are in readiness to begin work on filling the gap as soon as the water level
admits. At present the rush of water is too great.

FLOOD # c.29

1903

Roads at St Ives assumed a dangerous condition for pedestrians, as a sharp frost

had made them as slippery and smooth as glass. On Sunday morning one could skate
from St Ives to Hilton on the main road, a distance of over four miles, without
injury to the skates. Mr Thomas Phillips, wholesale fruiterer of the Market Hill
slipped and sustained serious injury to his thigh. Mr Mason, the noted bone setter,
of Wisbech, was sent for but could not come.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 27th January

1978

The village of Bar Hill has been slammed by an article in ‘Architects Journal’;
planning consultant Graham Moss claims it is artificial, takes up too much farming
land, is too large and too posh. It has developed as an area of luxury properties,
marketed through exclusive London agents who have imposed urban ideals on the
countryside. Because the houses are so posh they are unsuitable for essential
agricultural labourers, he says.

1953

The Deputy Mayor of Cambridge, (Ald. H.O. Langdon) told a public meeting to launch
an appeal for funds for a residential home for old people that it was a challenge
to everyone of them. “Can we stand aside and see old people who have spent a useful
life in the service of our country suffer the pangs of loneliness and hardship, and
let them die in despair, uncared for and unwanted”, he asked. It is proposed to
provide bed sitting rooms, both single and double, centrally heated and with modern
amenities together with a dining room, reading and writing rooms where people can
spend their declining years in the company of others and be tended and cared for.

c.32.9 # OLD PEOPLE

1928

The condition of the boiler house chimney at Cambridge Workhouse which was erected
a year ago was discussed. A fire had been lit two days after the work was completed
when it should not have been lit for 14 days & the chimney had cracked because the
cement was not dry. The Guardians tried to find who had given the order but the
person responsible was not discovered. Mr Kidman’s foreman said he had found the
fire alight and the pipe leading to the brickwork was white hot. The chimney had
been put up because of complaints of smoke from Gwydir Street but they only had to
look to see a chimney double the height which got the same complaint.

c.32.9

1903

An inquest was held on the body of a railway locomotive fireman. The engine driver
said he was driving a train from Peterborough to London, passing through Shelford.
The deceased had fired up at Shepreth Junction. On approaching Shelford bridge he
saw deceased standing on the engine side of the tender raking coal towards him.
That was the last time he saw him. He looked forward to watch the signals and first
missed the fireman when approaching Sawston siding. If he had seen his mate fall he
would have stopped at once. The body was found on line near the bridge

c.26.1

Tuesday 28th January

1978

Hempstead is one of those pretty inglenook-infested Essex villages beloved of

merchant bankers as a retreat from the City. In summer tourists flock to see Dick
Turpin’s cottage and the pub of which he was landlord. But now it is a village of
fear: there have been three major fires in four months and now yet another thatched
cottage has caught fire. The blaze did about £7,000 damage to the shopkeeper’s
cottage and was certainly arson. There was a similar spate of fires in Arkesden six
months ago. Police are trying to find a pattern in the events.

1953
The chairman of Histon parish council protested against a proposal that boundaries
of the adjacent parishes should be altered and 415 acres added to Girton. This was
the third time that Girton had asked for an extension; on the last occasion in 1934
Histon had agreed. Oakington also wanted additional land, previously the site of
the isolation hospital; the Cambridge road was their only source of development
since the aerodrome had taken 500 acres, the water supply was provided by the
village and residents would be able to avail themselves of the new recreation
ground.

1928

Ald L. Tebbutt objected to proposals for a bridge over the Old West River at
Twentypence Ferry. Cottenham would be linked to two villages in the Isle of Ely –
Wilburton and Haddenham, but he did not see that even Cottenham had very great
interest in the matter. It was a very awkward road from Cottenham to Cambridge
through Histon. There were so many corners at Histon – it was one of the worst
places in the country. If they spent the money in putting Histon straight it would
be of much greater benefit.

c.44.75 # c.44.65

1903

Dr Cocks and his chauffeur were proceeding along Hills Road, Cambridge, in a motor
car, when the car skidded. The front wheel turned into the gutter and came into
contact with the kerbstone with great force. The wheel was completely battered and
every spoke was broken. Fortunately no one was hurt and the car was removed to the
Cambridge and Newmarket Autocar Company for repairs. No less than seven cyclists
also had spills through the greasy state of the road.

c.26.48

Wednesday 29th January

1978

The bells of Buckden parish church, unused for 10 years, will soon be ringing again
– thanks to the enthusiasm of a small band of children who are keen to learn the
art of campanology. As a prelude to their training the children spent Saturday in
the belfry, cleaning away 10 years’ accumulated dust. At one time the bells were
rung by a very expert team, but they have been out of use for some years because
the previous vicar was not very keen on bellringing.

1953

Abut 100 Cambridge undergraduates went to a party in St Catharine’s college and

then stood cheering while the man responsible was thrown into the icy waters of the
Cam. For the party was a hoax! Three St Catharine’s students were thanked for their
invitations to a party and found that 100 invitations had been printed. They took
it in the right spirit and arranged a party with a comb and paper band to provide
some music. The hoaxer sent an anonymous letter with money to pay for the drinks,
but was denounced and thrown into the Cam.

c.36.9

1928

An interesting discussion in regard to the future of Cambridge Prison and the

Castle Mound took place at a meeting of the County Council. The Home Secretary
would convey it to them for £4,812. The County did not want the mound, which was
more closely connected with Cambridge than the rest of the county. All persons
interested, including the Borough Council and the Cambridge Antiquarian Society
would be consulted when its future was settled. Something was also said about the
possibility of removing the County Hall in Hobson Street to the Shire Hall site.
c.34.9

1903

An exhaustive test of the capabilities of a steam fire engine took place on the
lawn before Addenbrooke's Hospital. At first sight the ‘steamer’ produced an
impression of admirable workmanship and construction. For an hour and a half the
mayor, councillors and a large gathering of the general public were absorbed
witnessing how quickly steam could be obtained of sufficiently high pressure to
start the engine. Blank cards were distributed for the insertion of the time at
which smoke issued from the chimney and with these in one hand and watches in the
other they stood watching. When up to pressure a great volume of water was thrown
above the roof of the Hospital.

c.34.75

Thursday 30th January

1978

Members of the National Women’s Aid Foundation have worked long and hard to
establish a refuge for battered women in Cambridge. After they were given the use
of an old three-storey house which had been used for emergency accommodation came
the physical hard work of cleaning, stripping, decorating and plumbing. The task is
not yet complete; work is still going on to provide a sitting room for the women,
most of who arrive with only clothes for themselves and their children. Once they
are in the refuge they run the house themselves as a group and make rules about
such things as children’s bedtimes and bathtimes. It is a temporary resting place
until they get some permanent accommodation of their own

WOMEN

1953

Ely Beet Sugar Factory has come to the end of another successful campaign, dealing
with 316,000 tons of beet in 116 days, including a two-day stop when the boiler
broke down, and produced over 44,000 tons of sugar, 7,000 tons of molasses and
nearly 23,000 tons of dried beet pulp. It is a tribute to the farmers to say that
in spite of all the handicaps of frost, snow and water-logged fields, less than
half of one per cent of the beets remain unharvested.

1928

It was with feelings of justifiable pride and deep gratitude that the Unitarians of
Cambridge assembled in their new Memorial Church, Emmanuel Road for its dedicatory
service. It stands as a perpetual memorial to the memory of Mr G.W. Brown. The
church has been designed by Ronald P. Jones who was responsible for the Church Hall
in 1922 and follows the normal “college chapel” design. Prof Burkitt referred to
the difficulties the movement experienced in the ‘80s when services were held in
the smoky atmosphere of a billiard room in Green Street.

c.83.07

1903

The Sabbath calm at the Barnwell Mission services held in the Barnwell Theatre was
rudely disturbed. Religious fervour had been well sustained and the atmosphere
became somewhat overheated. The superintendent requested that the hot water might
be shut off. The warming apparatus gave a series of resounding reports and the
supply cistern overflowed, causing steam to pervade the auditorium. The
congregation jumped to the conclusion that the Theatre was on fire and dashed out.
The panic was worst in the gallery, which was filled with about 150 young people
who made a dash for the steep stairs. The band stuck to their posts and played the
greater part of the congregation out and the Benediction was pronounced to those
who remained.

c.83.01

Friday 31st January

1978

A dispute has broken out over the Quy interchange where the B1102 road to Burwell
meets the Newmarket-bound A45, now being re-constructed to the size of a motorway.
The problem started when motorists and police expressed concern that the newly-
built junction could give rise to road accidents. Quy parish council say it has
been built different to the original plans & the County Council say safety
improvements will have to be carried out, but the Department of Transport say there
is no need for improvements at all.

1953

Varsity, the university student magazine, reports that the rooms in women’s
colleges may be poky, unsuitably furnished and dimly lighted but they are not
dowdy. At Newnham all the rooms are attractive but dim lighting and inadequate
heating are the main faults and there is a dearth of food cupboards. Male visitors
may be shocked to see that their hostess keeps food and crockery in her wardrobe
together with damp towels and that the desk drawers contain undies. At Girton some
rooms contain antique furnishings which give an air of luxury but others are
completely modern with unique mobiles and original paintings by Avante Garde
artists.

WOMEN # c.36.9

1928

The Ouse Drainage Board discussed the breach of the bank of the River Wissey. It
was said the cause was the action of the sluice-keeper at Denver in not opening the
new eye during the floods. But the reason it had not worked was that the frost was
so severe; the sluice was pulled up and great difficulty was experienced in getting
it down as the grooves were covered with ice. When the thaw set in the door was
eased and had worked splendidly every since. The floods were caused by the large
flow of water down the Cam and the other three rivers into the Ten Mile. It was the
highest flood ever recorded at Denver Sluice, three inches higher than in February
1919

FLOOD # c.29

1903

An undergraduate told the court he was riding his motor car in Trinity Street,
Cambridge. Opposite the entrance to Rose Crescent the car suddenly stopped in
consequence of something going wrong with the gear. A hackney carriage was coming
along and he held up his hand, thinking there was not sufficient room for it to
pass the car. The cabman did not stop, but swore and carried on. The cab came into
contract with the motor car and two mudguards were bent. The cab-proprietor was
fined 5s.
c.36.9

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 3rd February

1978

The Cambridge Evening News has achieved a feat unprecedented among provincial
newspapers by winning three awards in British journalism’s most important honours
list, the British Press Awards. Chief amongst the News winners is cameraman Tony
Jedrej who has won the title of News Photographer of the Year for a picture of a
gunman and woman hostage at Ickleton. Reporter Alan Rusbridger receives a
commendation in the Young Journalist of the Year class for articles on Cambridge
Symphony Orchestra and a punk rock group while Assistant Editor John Alexander is
commended in the Provincial Journalist of the Year class.

c.04

1953

To a Britain shocked by the disasters of the weekend came the news today that the
bodies of over 100 people had been found in the Canvey Island floods and that
between 400 and 500 more were unaccounted for. The dreadful magnitude of the
tragedy is becoming only too clear to rescue workers who see bodies – some young
children – floating on the waters and others laying lifeless on roof tops with
water lapping at their feet, and still more entangled amongst branches of trees –
flung there by the mighty waves which engulfed the island.

FLOOD

1928

Sir – there are a great many dangerous corners in Cambridge. Burleigh Street corner
is dangerous on account of the Eden Baptist Chapel standing in the midst of this
busy thoroughfare. I suppose this chapel has been in existence from time
immemorial, but as times are now and as traffic grows bigger and bigger, there
certainly ought to be something done to remove this obstacle from this blind corner
– E. Claydon

c.83.05

1903

St Andrew’s Street Baptist Chapel, Cambridge, is to be swept away and another more
ornate is to be substituted. It has often excited the curiosity of strangers and
not a little ridicule has been bestowed upon those who have worshipped in such a
prison-like building. Even Charles Spurgeon described it as suitable for private
executions. The new building will have both a tower and spire and be worthy of the
prominent position it will occupy.

c.83.05

Tuesday 4th February

1978

A recent move to sell the Abbey House, Cambridge to its long-standing tenant,
retired Professor Peter Danckwerts, raised eyebrows among people who know the
history of the place. It was bought for the Folk Museum by Lord Fairhaven in 1945.
No endowment was made and the museum found it impossible to keep up the house. It
was given to the city in 1973 and the city has found it an embarrassment ever
since, spending little on repairs. But a former Mayor and chairman of the Cambridge
Preservation Society threatened to take the city council to court if it was sold

c.03 # c.61.7

1953

Stories of those who lived through the coastal deluge are being unfolded. Well-
known Cambridge people were amongst those who can now tell of narrow escapes from
death. One woman spent more than five hours on the roof of her beach house at
Heacham with the raging sea all around. “Our bungalow was the only one which held
together, yet it was washed a quarter of a mile from the original site, and five
people living almost next door lost their lives”, she said.

FLOOD

1928

At day-break a four-roomed house at West Street Comberton suddenly collapsed while

the occupants and their three small children were still in their beds. Both the
upper and lower rooms at the north end, where they were sleeping, completely
collapsed. One of the beds was precipitated partly into an adjoining yard and two
of the ceiling joists fell heavily right between the two elder children sleeping in
their beds. That they all escaped serious injury is a miracle. The greater part of
the furniture was subsequently got out by willing helpers. Hundreds of people came
and viewed the damage during Sunday.

c.61.7

1903

A disastrous fire occurred in the quiet little village of Buckland. The origin of
the outbreak is attributed to sparks from a chimney that was on fire alighting on
the thatched roof of two unoccupied cottages. The flames spread with alarming
rapidity and occupants of adjoining property set about to remove their furniture as
the houses being very old bunt like tinder. In a short time six cottages were a
mass of fire and were burnt to the ground. At one time the whole village was
threatened with destruction.

Wednesday 5th February

1978

Essex MPs have warned the Government that they will fight any plans to turn
Stansted into London’s third airport. Increasing the passenger capacity to four
million was one of the options put forward in the airports policy White Paper, but
Saffron Walden MP, Alan Haselhurst, will be seeking ‘copper-bottomed assurances’
that a ceiling would be placed on development at the airport: “To allow it to grow
to the dizzy heights would thoroughly despoil one of the loveliest parts of Essex”,
he said. The White Paper claimed that if Stansted were expanded only 2,000 people
would be affected.

1953

People of Cambridge are responding well to the Queen Mother’s message broadcast by
the BBC appealing for clothing for the East Coast flood victims. At the W.V.S.
Regional Headquarters in Chesterton Road clothing is piling up on the floor. All
morning people have been arriving from Cambridge and the outlying villages with
armfuls of clothes and children’s toys. The British Red Cross Society are busy and
a long line of people have offered bedding and bedsteads of all descriptions. The
Harvey Goodwin Nursery has made an offer of babies’ cots

FLOOD

1928

Cambridge council discussed recommendations to build a bridge over the river at or

near Abbey Road. An inner ring road would circle the town on the outskirts which
was necessary in view of the ever-increasing traffic and congestion in the centre
of Cambridge. They suggested that a direct by-pass road be constructed by linking
Chesterton Road with Milton Road

c.44.7

1903

A Fulbourn wood dealer claimed his horse had been bewitched and conducted an
experiment to see who had bewitched it. He took two bottles to the blacksmith’s
shop and filled them with nails and pieces of hoof from the floor, then bought some
pins and needles. At midnight he put water in a saucepan and boiled it with the
parings of hoofs nails, pins and needles in. He sat quite in the dark. At last
somebody came to the door but he was so frightened he blundered off upstairs. The
magistrates attributed the condition of the horse to starvation rather than the
evil eye and imposed a heavy fine. It is almost incredible that such fooleries
should be believed, but the bucolic mind evidently lingers in the shadows of a
century ago.

WITCH # c.39

Thursday 6th February

1978

At least 1,300 Cambridge families are living in privately owned houses which
council officials think are unfit for human habitation. The houses suffer from
structure defects, extensive dampness, general disrepair and lack of conveniently
accessible lavatories. And 2,000 other families live in homes – some of them
council houses – which are classed as substandard because they lack basic amenities
such as indoor lavatories and reasonable food storage, says a city council report

1953

Contrary to reports that floods threaten on an even larger scale at King’s Lynn, Mr
W.E. Doran of the Great Ouse River Board said the situation was satisfactory. Of
the eight breaks which occurred in the banks of the Ouse five were closed before
the next high tide. On the remaining breach north of Magdalene railway bridge some
400 men, including airmen, farm workers and University students were employed in
filling bags in preparation for the first stage in the closing of the breach.
FLOOD

1928

Finding that the spire of St Clement’s church, Cambridge was in a dangerous

condition a small army of workmen are busy erecting scaffolding. The pinnacle above
the tower is to be taken down and will not be re-erected. A hole in the spire about
ten feet by three feet is visible from the road and it is believed that the trouble
was caused by the recent gale. The spire is a later addition to the church, having
been erected in 1832 according to instructions under the will of William Cole of
Milton.

c.83.01

1903

Application was made for a new full licence in respect of the former Three
Horseshoes at Knapwell. It was discontinued as the former owner had extreme views
on the temperance question and purposely shut the house up. The nearest public
house was at Elsworth and if a man had to walk two miles to fetch his supper beer
there was a great temptation for him to have more before he left. It was the wish
of the inhabitants that they should have some means of obtaining drink in the
village. Many lives were saved by the prompt administration of brandy during an
illness; cases might frequently occur at Knapwell and lives be lost through there
being no stimulant brandy.

c.27.4

Friday 7th February

1978

The road accident everyone feared happened on the new Quy interchange. A giant
articulated container lorry failed to negotiate one of the controversial tight
bends and plunged down an embankment. The crash came only hours after Quy parish
council had met once again to urge the highways authority to take action. The
Cambridgeshire police traffic commander said the accident confirmed police fears
about the safety of the road at that point.

1953

More evacuees from the Married Quarters at Felixstowe RAF Station arrived at
Waterbeach RAF station, bringing the total to about 150. The matron of the Glanely
Rest, at Exning, says that 35 flooded-out residents of the Bristol House Home at
Felixstowe had been accommodated at the late Lord Glanely’s house. Pye’s factory at
Oulton Broads, Lowestoft, was flooded by 28-ft waves and put out of action. Salt
water covered much of the equipment. Yesterday Mr L.W. Jones, Works Director and Mr
C.A. Harmer, Technical Director went to Lowestoft to survey the damage and make
plans for sending help from Cambridge.

FLOOD

1928

Cambridge borough council considered plans from the Cambridge Estates Ltd for the
construction of roads and sewers on the Hurst Park Estate which has an acreage of
30 acres, nine being in Cambridge and 21 in the parish of Impington. It is proposed
to erect approximately 190 houses. Ald Raynes thought the public who were
considering purchasing plots should be fully aware of what they were doing. Only a
small portion of the estate was within Cambridge and the rest was in the Chesterton
Rural District Council’s area who did not have a single bylaw affecting buildings
or the construction of roads

c.23

1903
Steps are to be taken all over England to reduce the number of licensed houses,
Bottisham magistrates were told. They have one licensed house to every 123 people.
The Cow and Calf beerhouse, Swaffham Prior has not applied for a license, as one
has been granted to a new house near the railway station & The Harrow, Fulbourn,
has been closed. In the last year the landlady of the Crown and Thistle, Fulbourn
has been convicted of supplying beer to a drunken person.

c.27.4

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 10th February

1978

He used to stand at the corner of Trinity Street and Green Street in Cambridge,
touting his wares. Every few minutes he would break out into a chant which sounded
something like “Toodle-oddle-aidie-ar”. One day I couldn’t stand it any longer –
not knowing what it meant. So I went up and asked him. “Two o’clock late London”,
he said, not so much as raising an eyebrow. “Paper, sir?” Every community, in every
day and age, has its ‘characters’, even if there never seem to be quite as many
about as there once were. Today busker Jerry Bol happily makes an exhibition of
himself as a one-man band, while ‘Snowy’ Farr and his menagerie delight thousands
of people with their weekly Saturday appearances.

c.04

1953

Tired but in good spirits the crew of a Cambridge Food Squad consisting of six
Ministry of Food vans returned from King’s Lynn where they have provided free
stews, teas, sandwiches, pudding and custards to the homeless and the many workers
helping with the flood disaster. The party consisted of hand-picked recruits from
the W.V.S. who were also members of the Civil Defence movement. One said that it
was just as difficult as the job they had to do in the Norwich blitz during the
war.

FLOOD

1928

The story of the Chesterton ghost has attracted crowds of people to the pathway
skirting the Willows and there were quite 200 spook-hunters waiting for something
to turn up. Of course nobody takes the story seriously and even children have
braved the darkness and the barbed wire fences to join in the hunt. All sorts of
practical jokes have been played and one enthusiast sallied forth with a sheet
until people started throwing things! Someone said that the ghost was defunct,
having been shot by a policeman. But if the spirit doesn’t materialise on the
Willows it most certainly will in a licensed establishment in the adjoining Cam
Road

GHOST # c.39

1903

A joint committee on the employment of barmaids has sent a resolution to the London
magistrates asking them to recommend the employment of women in public bars shall
be discontinued and no new employees be engaged. They believe the conditions of
work are unsuitable for women and girls; it is quite customary for hours to range
from fifteen to eighteen hours a day, seven to nine hours on Sundays. Thousands of
women are employed in serving intoxicating liquors and find difficulty into
settling into other occupations.

c.27.4 # WOMEN

Tuesday 11th February

1978

A Newmarket restaurant where royalty and racehorse trainers used to eat is now
providing bed and breakfast for stablelads and lorry drivers. L’Aubrge du Cheval
Blanc, in Old Station Road, had a world-wide reputation for its French cuisine. But
Mr Robert Petit, one of the two Frenchmen who ran the restaurant for the last five
years says: “It’s no use being posh if you’ve got no money”. He is continuing to
run the restaurant providing bed, breakfast and an evening meal for £4 while his
partner has gone back to his old job at the London Hilton. There had been no co-
operation from the racing world or local authorities to make Newmarket more
attractive to tourists who could have given more business to the restaurant

1953

Voluntary work in aid of the East Coast flood victims went on throughout Cambridge
during the weekend and many volunteers were pleased to see the Mayor who visited
the various centres before concluding with a visit to Heacham where he saw the
bulldozers piling up the beach in an endeavour of build a wall. . On Saturday
afternoon he called in at the Cambridge United football ground where a short appeal
over the loudspeaker system resulted in a collection amounting to £37.

FLOOD

1928

A rabbit hunt was organised at Linton and a large number gathered to enjoy the
sport provided. There were about 80 men, most of whom were armed with stout sticks
and about 50 dogs of all sorts and sizes. The affair, which has now become an
annual event, attracted people from all parts of the region. The hunt started from
Green Hill and within 200 yards the first kill was made. Up to lunch 18 rabbits and
one hare had been killed and afterwards they went to Payne’s Pasture where rabbits
were in abundance and kills numerous.

c.38 : hunting

1903
The most famous wise woman in the fens lives in the town of Cambridge itself. On
market days farmers and labourers and servants come to seek her advice, cross her
hand with silver and go away with spells for love and marriage, for the cure of all
kinds of ills and good luck in cattle-dealing. Another famous Wise Woman lives in
a cottage in a village near Newmarket. She does a good business in spells and
charms, from wart-curing to love philtres. She has cured thousands of warts by a
process of rubbing the root of the dandelion plant on the hard skin to the
accompaniment of some incantation gibberish. On stormy nights she is still fondly
believed to go for midnight rides on a broomstick.

WITCH # c.39

Wednesday 12th February

1978

The Minister for the Arts, Lord Donaldson, visited Saffron Walden library and arts
centre in the former Corn Exchange and went on to visit the town museum. The
Cambridge-born Minister said: “This is one of the best laid out libraries I have
seen and I am very impressed with the Victorian collection of books”. He was
accompanied by the Librarian, Mr John Ridler, Mayor Coun Russell Green and Town
Clerk Mr Malcolm White

1953

The Swiss Laundry and the Cherry Hinton Steam Laundry in Cambridge are both busy
washing and ironing articles sent from flooded laundries at Lowestoft. All the
employees volunteered to work throughout the weekend on consignments which arrived
in lorries. The articles were covered in slime and completely unrecognisable as
individual garments. By Sunday the whole consignment was completed and they were
surprised how clean the articles had come. The Scotsdale Laundry was also engaged
on similar work.

FLOOD

1928

The tea given to old folks at the Comberton Institute was one of the pleasantest
and most enjoyable functions ever held in the village. About 80 persons responded
to the invitations. The long rows of tables had been arranged by the lady members
and a plentiful supply of flowers and plants added to the cheerful scene. Many of
those present were over 80 years old, the oldest being Mrs Ann Marshall who is 88.
After a sumptuous repast the tables were cleared for dancing and tobacco freely
distributed for the men and oranges for the ladies. William Huckle, who is 83, gave
a step-dance with the vitality of a youth of 18.

OLD PEOPLE

1903

Sir – Christ’s Pieces, Cambridge, would be a good site for the establishment of
public baths. Vast number of undergraduates are at present unable to obtain the
very necessary hot bath, as only a small proportion of licensed lodgings have fixed
baths with hot water supply and few of the colleges are sufficiently equipped in
this respect for those in residence. Country people of both sexes would also make
use of the baths in the daytime – M.A. Hyman

BATH # c.32.3
Thursday 13th February

1978

I went for a pub-crawl the other night – without moving from my ‘local’. Warmed by
two or three pints of good beer I decided to call at The Criterion in Market
Passage, which used to be a popular Saturday night pub, the Bun Shop just off
Downing Street and the Volunteer in Green Street before tramping on to the Earl
Grey in King Street and the Duke of Cambridge in Short Street. Every one of these
pubs had its own special ‘character’. The journey took only a few minutes but the
best part of 15 years – during which time all of them have closed.

c.27.4

1953

High water levels on the River Cam have now dropped considerably at all points
except at Bottisham Locks and all precautions for dealing with any emergency during
the period of the Spring tides have been completed. A tide warning system will be
put into operation; the number of patrols will be increased and emergency gangs,
transport and materials made available at short notice. Coastal weather and tidal
conditions are received by teleprinter at the Great Ouse River Board’s Ely
headquarters and police are ready to issue any necessary warnings

FLOOD # c.29

1928

Justices turned down an application for the removal of the licence of the Elm Tree,
Orchard Street, Cambridge to premises proposed to be erected at the junction of
Milton Road and Green End Road. The Elm Tree was redundant and not necessary for
the needs of the locality and there were over 100 people in favour of the new site.
Large numbers of houses were being erected in that area which would be inhabited by
people who would not be able to afford a wine cellar of their own and have to go to
a public house for their bottle of beer. But the residents were people who had been
taken from the slums; their incomes were very small and there was no margin for
drink in their budget.

c.27.4

1903

Mr Balding told Royston council of the dangerous state of the Royston Cave in
Melbourn Street owing to the heavy traffic which is constantly passing over it. The
apex of the cave was close to the traffic and there was a possibility of its giving
way at any time, especially if a traction engine were passing over. Serious
consequences might arise and it was a danger the council should consider at their
earliest convenience. But the road is under the supervision of the County Council.

Friday 14th February

1978

Ely must be the most historic city in the fens and has some of the leading firms.
The premises occupied by the Fenland Carpet Company have a varied history. Over 50
years ago it was possible to have a carriage built by a firm trading as ‘Fennings’
Later it became well-known for supplying cycles and motor cycles in a business run
by Mr Garnett & Mr Horace Wallis, under the trading title of Walbro and more
recently they were occupied by Millers the music people and part was used as a
‘discotheque’. Fenland Carpets was first formed about 15 years ago and give
personal attention to their customer’s requirements.

1953

Bad weather delayed the Royal Car when Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother came to
Cambridge to visit depots where clothing is being stored for East Coast flood
victims. She visited the hangar on Madingley Road in which is stacked some 400 tons
of clothing sent by post, road and rail from all parts of the country. There she
watched undergraduates unloading lorries, saw the clothing being sorted and then
went to the canteen where she accepted a beaker of tea, declining sugar. Then she
walked into the open to see the Soya boilers used to provide hot meals. During part
of the time in the shed Her Majesty was under the glare of television cameras which
were recording the proceedings.

c.02

1928

The first annual report of the Cambridge Housing Society shows they have built 22
houses at Green End Road to be let at an average rent of 5s.6d. per week. Twenty-
two families with 91 children are accommodated and thus given the chance of growing
up in healthy surroundings in houses with three bedrooms, modern sanitation and
good gardens. But there are still problems of providing modern houses for poor
families at rents they can reasonably afford

c.30

1903

The Rev Charles Crump, of Sawston, was summoned for riding a bicycle on the
footpath. The police superintendent held up his hand and the defendant rode on the
road saying, “You have fairly caught me”. The road was in an abominable condition;
had he been a young lady not a word would have been said, but he supposed the
policeman was glad to catch a parson. He was fined 6d. An undergraduate of Caius
College was summoned for wheeling a bicycle on the footpath in Round Church Street.
He said perambulators and mail carts were being wheeled along the path and he was
not causing any danger or annoyance. He was fined 10s.

c.26.485
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 17th February

1978

A County Council report recommends that two old church schools in the centre of
Cambridge, Park Street and St Matthew’s, should close. It says no school will take
more than 60 infants a year; all schools will have nursery classes from three-plus,
and that separate infants and junior schools will be merged into one school taking
children right up to 11. Catchment zones will be introduced for primary schools. At
present Morley Memorial is under a great deal of pressure and children are taught
in a rented church hall across a busy road while Sedley Infants and Romsey Junior
have empty places.
c.36.5

1953

Pest Control of Harston appealed against the refusal of planning permission for an
extension of their works. The County planners said they do not think it in the
interest of Cambridgeshire that there should be an increase of major industry. It
was their duty to protect the beauty and well-being of the county. The production
site of the factory should never have been started at Hauxton at all and it must
not be allowed to expand. There had been complaints of unpleasant smells and
discoloration and pollution of the river

1928

The football fraternity in Cambridge will regret to hear of an accident to Mr Cecil

Cannon, the Town goalkeeper, who was overcome by fumes from a geyser in the
bathroom of his house. He is greatly concerned about being indisposed in view of
the Town’s amateur cup-tie with Stockton at Milton Road next Saturday. Although
this is only his first season he is a goalkeeper of exceptional ability, his name
having been suggested more than once for international honours. All readers will
wish him a speedy recovery and hope soon to see him in his accustomed position
between the “sticks”.

1903

Messrs Laurie and McConnal are almost universal providers, for their extensive
premises, nos.121-124 Fitzroy Street, contained many departments. Today they are no
more. In their place is a great gap, a space which instead of containing the
thousand and one articles wherewith to furnish the homes of Cambridge has nothing
to show but heaps of charred timber, twisted iron girders and dismembered masses of
masonry. The whole premises have been destroyed as completely as fire can destroy.
In less than three hours they licked up goods and buildings valued at up to
£100,000

c.27.2 # c.34.75

Tuesday 18th February

1978

After 17 years work costing nearly £1 million the 18 miles of River Ouse between
Bedford and St Neots has been fully restored for boating. The Goldington project,
which involves rebuilding the decayed lock along with dredging the river, has been
the most expensive part of the operation. Previously a determined boater who was
prepared to be his own lock-keeper and do some heaving and pulling might have made
it through to Bedford with luck. Now it should be a straightforward journey

c.29.4

1953

Sir Hugh Lucas-Tooth, Parliamentary Under-Secretary for the Home Office, visited
W.V.S. centres in Cambridge. He saw American airmen working alongside British
civilians in sorting and packing hundreds of articles which are still being
received for the East Coast Flood victims. 500 blankets were sent today from
Cambridge to Yarmouth where many people are going back to their homes. The hangar
at Madingley Road which has been opened as a receiving centre is so packed with
clothing and bedding that the heads of students working there are touching the
roof.

FLOOD

1928

While a labourer was cleaning out a ditch some distance from the road at Pidley he
came across what he thought was a large stone. At first he took no notice of it and
kept on digging, but on examining later he found that it was a human skull with a
complete set of teeth. Digging further he came across most of the larger bones of a
human body, but none of the smaller, and as they were in a heap it does not appear
that a complete body had been buried. Many years ago there was a spinney where the
bones were found, which was used as a gypsy encampment.

c.41

1903

Many thousands of Cambridge people witnessed the spectacle of the fire at Laurie
and McConnal’s in Fitzroy Street. The crowd increased to gigantic proportions and
to keep them in check it was necessary to stretch ropes across on either side. The
Mayor, Aldermen and members of the Fire Brigade Committee watched the progress of
the fire and the unremitting efforts of the firemen. The interested crowd did not
let the firemen work without encouragement and the fireman with the nozzle working
in clouds of smoke was cheered heartily when he commenced his task. As soon as the
hopelessness of saving Lauries was recognised special attention was turned to
defending the adjoining premises of Messrs Sturton and Mumford.

c.34.75 # c.27.2

Wednesday 19th February

1978

After a disastrous fire which gutted the lounge and bar of the Conservative Club in
Huntingdon last May, the restoration work has now been completed and the club will
be official reopened by the MP for Huntingdonshire, Sir David and Lady Renton. This
will be a great relief, as the club has only survived by using a Portakabin in
which a bar was installed. The club will now hope to encourage more applications
from members of the local branches of the Conservative Association which exist in
nearly every town and village in the constituency.

1953

A Newmarket reader has written to complain about the way in which fish fryers wrap
up fish and chips. “It seems to be an accepted rule that the bag must always be an
inch too short. If you buy 6d worth of chips they will give you a bag which holds
4d worth. This is not a chance accident but a system which is rigidly adhered to
with the result that at least some of the chips will be imbibed with the printers’
ink of the newspaper in which it was wrapped.”

1928

Sir – seeing that Sawston village has now been supplied with electricity for
lighting, heating and power, I would like to express my sincere appreciation of
this great boon to our village. I am delighted with the light in my house; it is
clean and healthy and the supply is excellent. The village streets are now well
lighted and it is a real pleasure to walk out in the evenings – William Resbury

c.34.6

1903

After the great fire in Fitzroy Street, Cambridge, public opinion was strongly
expressed in favour of the Volunteer Fire Brigade being in possession of a steam
fire engine. It would require, with driver and stoker, eight men to work the engine
and, with reliefs of the same number, would necessitate 16 men being engaged. But
with only one engine they would have been able to play four jets on either the
front or back of the fire, and one side would be entirely unprovided for. The
engines and paid brigade would be so expensive that the town authorities would not
be justified in incurring the outlay for protecting the few buildings at which they
might be necessary.

c.34.75

Thursday 20th February

1978

The battle for the Free Press has been won and this celebrated Kite survivor was
officially reopened in all its renovated glory. It is a small street corner public
house, originally on the end of a terrace of cottages. In 1964 it was purchased by
Cambridge City Council as part of a clearance area and the cottages were
demolished. But the pub was leased back to Greene King so it could continue to
trade until required for demolition. The challenge has been to preserve and enhance
the original character, retaining all the interesting features while enlarging the
premises. It was reopened by Miss Brenda Nichols whose family ran the pub for 48
years.

c.27.4

1953

A travel-worn motor coach came to rest on Market Hill, Cambridge, after a 3,000-
mile, seven week “Go to Clacton” tour of the Midlands. And Mr E.A. Lainson,
Managing Director of Premier Travel Ltd hopes it will bring him £6,000 worth of
business this summer. The 35-seater is no ordinary vehicle for the passengers
cannot see through the windows. But as a mobile cinema it has taken the golden
sands and sunshine of Clacton to hundreds of housewives and factory workers in
industrial towns and cities far away from the sea, showing an eight-minute colour
film ‘Back to the Sun’

c.26.46

1928

During the storm which raged with unusual severity over Bishop’s Stortford
lightning struck the parish church steeple at Takeley and set the old building on
fire. The church was a beacon of light which could be seen for miles around, flames
shooting out from the steeple. It was evident that the cross surmounting the
steeple had been struck, the supporting king-post being well alight and the lead
running down the sides of the roof faces. Crowds of villages watched from the
churchyard. The vicar, who was greatly distressed at the unfortunate occurrence,
sprained his ankle in attempting to assist the firemen and had to be conveyed to
the vicarage in a car.

c.12

1903

The Great Fire. Laurie & McConnal, Ltd., Universal stores, Fitzroy Street,
Cambridge, will open their temporary premises in Fair Street with brand new stock
of furnishing, general ironmongery, stationery, haberdashery, china and glass.
Business usual in the Boot and Tool department, right opposite the destroyed
building. – Advert

c.27.2

Friday 21st February

1978

Shopping Guide decided to investigate the cost of a cup of tea in Cambridge snack
bars. Best value for money was The Whim in Trinity Street where a pot of tea costs
15p and with a jug of hot water and plenty of milk you can get three cups for your
money. Worst was the tea and coffee counter at the Arts Theatre Roof Garden where
you pay 15p for one cup. Thornhills in Regent Street was the best for choice as you
can have a cup (8p) or pot (18p) whilst at the Coffee Pot in Green Street you pay
20p for a pot that held four cups, if you had the thirst to match it. Joshua Taylor
is the only department store which has a coffee or tea shop but has a lunch-time
minimum charge.

c.27.4

1953

Eleven members of a Wilburton family have a record of longevity that will take some
beating. Four brothers and seven sisters, their combined ages add up to 872 years.
In order of seniority they are: Mrs Elizabeth Moxon who is 86, Herbert Warren
(Wilburton) 84, Edward Warren 83, Mrs Rebecca Everitt 82, Mrs Georgina Ashman 81,
Alfred Ashman 79, Mrs Flora Wilds 78, Mrs Mary Clark 77,
Arthur Herbert Warren 66, Miss Clara Warren 74 and Ethel, aged 72.

c.31

1928

Three Cambridge youths who said they only bought a revolver for the purpose of
selling it again to make money were summoned at the Police Court. They had bought
the colt revolver from a hairdresser and thought it was a relic. They never had any
ammunition for it. They did not have it for any criminal intent. The authorities
looked upon this as a very serious matter. They could be fined £50 each or sent to
prison for three months. But the magistrates did not think they had it for any evil
intent and dismissed the case.

CHILDREN

1903

Newmarket fever hospital was only made for 15 beds; they had had 36 patients in at
one time which showed the hospital was not up to requirements. When the outbreak of
scarlet fever occurred at Stetchworth there were nine cases in the hospital. They
might get disease spread from one case all over a village in a very short time.
There was nothing like isolation for stamping out these diseases. It was almost
impossible for poor people to take the necessary precautions.

c.21.4

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 24th February

1978

The Bonnett public house at Ashdon – famous for its annual pumpkin planting contest
and its real ale – has closed down. This follows the death of the landlord for the
past 12 years, Mr Len Murphy. Greene King has put the two-bar, three-bedroomed pub
up for sale with the licence rather than find a new tenant at a price of more than
£17,500.

c.27.4

1953

A new branch of the Westminster Bank opened in Fitzroy Street, Cambridge, a fairly
busy district which up to now has not been served by a bank of any sort. Inside the
visitor is greeted with an attractively decorated modern interior. Cheques will be
taken to the parent branch in Bene’t Street where they are photographed and
available for the customer to examine. An interesting feature is that a night safe
has been provided. The first person to open an account was Geoffrey Nichols, of the
Free Press, Prospect Row.

c.32.8

1928

Three Cambridge youths appeared in court for unlawfully being in possession of a .

45 Colt revolver and not having a firearm certificate. One said he had bought the
revolver from a hairdresser in Berkshire; he thought it was only a relic and sold
it to the second defendant. He said he never had any ammunition and had offered to
sell it to the third youth who said he would buy it if he could get a licence for
it. The Magistrates looked upon this as a very serious matter; defendants could be
fined £50 or sent to prison for three months, but they did not think they had the
revolver for any evil intent and the case was dismissed.

1903

There are many colonies of Dr Barnardo’s children in Cambridgeshire, and no

pleasanter life for them can be imagined than the breathing of pure air and
association with happy village children, whose happiness is shared by their
playmates. At Witchford there are no fewer than 22 boarded out from the Home. Two
girls, one six year old and her sister, eight, were given a ride by the Vicar in
his carriage while he made arrangement for meetings in neighbouring villages. He is
exceedingly fond of children, enjoying the company of the little ones and shared
merrily in their conversation. He took them to Stretham station and they walked
back home to Witchford.
CHILDREN

Tuesday 25th February

1978

The foundation of the largest LSD ring the world has ever seen were laid in
Cambridge in 1970, a court was told. Five men living in Cambridge at the time
launched the operation that would end up supplying more than 90 per cent of
Britain’s LSD and more than 50 per cent of the world’s total consumption of the
drug, said the prosecutor at the start of the ‘Operation Julie’ trial. One man had
ordered a tablet-making machine to be delivered to him at the University Chemistry
Laboratory and delivered drugs to a house in Cambridge by simply dropping them
through the letter box

DRUG # c..34.6

1953

Almost 200 members of the Cambridge Branch British Legion Women’s Section
celebrated their jubilee at the Dorothy Café. Mrs A.A. Sampson, Chairman, expressed
thanks to their officers and mentioned in particular the only two standard bearers
the branch had had in its 25 years. Mrs Barnard, who had retired for health reasons
in 1936, and her sister, Mrs Garner, who took over the duty at that time. After
dinner the guests danced to the music of Wally Scott’s Band and were entertained by
a cabaret by members of Mrs Joan Metcalfe’s School of Dancing

1928

A women’s section of the Cambridge branch of the British Legion came into existence
at a meeting held in the Guildhall. Since 1921 they had been growing at a
tremendous rate and now had 745 branches of the women’s section. It was a national
organisation which welcomed applications for grants for training widows in
employment and for assisting orphans in train journeys to school. The mayoress (Mrs
E.W. Amies) was elected President with Mrs Turner as Chairman, Mrs Cutlack as
secretary and Mrs Salisbury Woods as treasurer.

1903

The Cambridge Corn Exchange exhibition of cycles and motors has become an annual
event. Motors and motor cycles are as yet in their infancy and each year sees great
strides taken towards perfection. There are on view some fine, up-to-date specimens
of motor cars. The Mayor said he was a cyclist of some years’ standing but his
experiences of motor cars was very limited. He had been for a ride on a motor car,
and thoroughly enjoyed it. Manufacturers were handicapped by stringent laws as to
the pace motors might travel over public roads. While so many horses were about it
was startling for them to find a vehicle coming at 20 miles and hour and making
rather a peculiar noise.

c.26.485

Wednesday 26th February

1978
Cambridge University Footlights Amateur Dramatic Club celebrated the opening of a
new cellar clubroom at the Cambridge Union Society. Only a couple of crates of fish
were lacking to evoke something of the atmosphere of the late lamented club room,
situated above a fishmonger’s in Falcon Yard. Clive James topped the bill at an
inaugural cabaret. A chunky, rapidly middle-ageing figure with fast-receding,
Sinatra-like hairstyle, his sharp vinegary wit seemed to be the essence of
monologue. Clive Anderson demonstrated that there might be a place in show business
for a genuinely sophisticated stand-up comedian.

c.76

1953

Messrs Cheffins put Allen’s Farm, Teversham, up for sale by auction. The farm of
187 acres which lies about 3½ [THREE AND A HALF] miles from the City Centre
attracted a large company and the bidding quickly advanced to £17,700 at which
figure it was knocked down to Marshall’s Flying School. It is understood that this
was the first auction of property in Teversham since 1906.

1928

Grantchester’s new village hall was opened. The building, which adjoins the Reading
Room, is of steel with a stage, kitchen and cloakrooms. Mr Adeane, in declaring it
open, expressed the hope it would not only be a social rendezvous, but a place
where political differences were left outside. It was desired to renovate the old
reading room and start a small museum and a library. Babraham had a village hall 25
years ago, largely due to the enterprise of Mr Adeane who had also started a wood-
carving centre there.

HALL

1903

For some months Cheveley parish church has been in the hands of the builders who
have just completed their task of thoroughly renovating the sacred edifice. Nearly
the whole of the roof has been renewed, an entirely new system of heating carried
out and the seats have been re-arranged. Wooden blocks have been substituted for
the original flooring and red tiles laid along the aisles. A new vestry has been
added and the organ rebuilt. The whole has been carried out at the expense of the
late Col Harry McCalmont, who took a deep interest in the welfare of the parish. At
the time of his death the building was not in a fit state to be used for public
worship and there was something pathetic in the fact that his generosity prevented
his funeral being held in the church.

c.82.01

Thursday 27th February

1978

Pete Sayers, the local boy made good, will be joining Gwennie Lee and the Len
Ebbage Showband at the opening of the Carioca night-club in Cambridge. He is the
first in a series of showbusiness personalities who have been booked to appear at
the two-tier club which has been built within the premises of the old Tabernacle
buildings in Newmarket Road. It aims to provide ‘middle-of-the-road’ dancing and
discos on the top floor with a full-scale restaurant and cabaret below.
c.69

1953

A property known as ‘The Spinney’, Limekiln Close, Cherry Hinton was ordered to be
demolished as it was unfit for human habitation & a danger to passers-by. The
thatched roof was overgrown with vegetation and the timber frame of the house
rotten and on the point of coming away. The cottage was very close to a road
junction and may fall towards the public highway. Children had broken into it and
it looked as though it had been hit by a bomb.

1928

Henry Percy Bowler, undergraduate of Pembroke College, was summoned for driving a
motor car at a dangerous speed in Chesterton Road, Cambridge. Sergt Nelson, who
admitted he had never driven a car, stated that defendant drove at 35 miles an hour
round a corner on the off-side of the road. Defendant said he drove behind a small
saloon car until he saw the road was clear and then passed it, his speed was about
27 miles an hour. The make of car was an H.P.B. and he assembled it himself. He
bought the engine, which was 20 h.p. in 1912 for £6. A fine of 10s was imposed.

1903

Wilburton Parish Council drew attention to the ruinous condition of Twenty-pence

Ferry Drawbridge, the owner of the bridge refusing to do any repairs to it. They
think it desirable that a permanent bridge be put up. But it was a public road on
one side of the ferry and a private one on the other. It was not a connection
between two public roads. Wentworth people again recommended that the well at the
end of the village should be deepened to the extent of 15 ft. But pumping machine
would then be required and the water would have to be filtered before it was used
for drinking purposes. People were willing to pay the money. Samples of water from
both wells in the village had been condemned for drinking purposes

c.44.75

Friday 28th February

1978

A unique village ‘industry’ may have dried up at Earith, and villagers are
delighted. Winter flooding on the main road to Cambridge meant that people with
tractors could sometimes make money by towing out stranded motorists whose cars
stalled in the water. But now the County council has spent £23,000 on raising the
level of the road by more than ten inches, and hope that this will keep at bay the
waters of the River Ouse. Previously flooding had meant the road was blocked to
cars for sometimes 15 days a year.

FLOOD

1953

The Newmarket Association for the Prosecutions of Felons dinner attracted more than
the usual number of stalwarts from Cambridge. It used to concern itself with
bringing miscreants to book but now proved an opportunity for a convivial evening
out. Members are usually called ‘felons’, but are keen to point out they are
nothing of the sort. Mrs Charles Phythian, clerk to Cambs County Council had to
withstand a good-natured ragging by Jack Ennion, another well-known solicitor,
about the proposed demolition of the Old Shire Hall.

c.34.6

1928

A porter’s sensation dash in front of an express train, travelling at nearly 60

mph, and a thrilling rescue, was witnessed by amazed onlookers at Waterbeach
station. The express from Ely was thundering into the station when the signalman
saw a man standing in the level crossing gateway. The wicket gate can be locked by
a lever in the signal box but he dared not lock it with the man standing where he
was, as the result would be to crush him badly. The man, who was deaf and has poor
sight, then began to make a crossing. The oncoming train was less than 20 paces off
when Goods Porter Ernest Curtis rushed across the line and held him between the two
sets of metals while the express dashed by. The situation was so serious that
onlookers thought both men had been killed.

c.26.2

1903

A serious fire occurred at Stapleford by which a house, known as The Poplars, was
completely razed to the ground. It was large, spacious and old-fashioned, having
been build about 200 years ago and was composed of woodwork, lath and plaster. Only
the chimneys were made of brickwork and it is quite obvious that a fire of any size
would soon destroy such an old place. Such was the case. It is believed that a
spark from the wash-house chimney fell on the thatched roof and spread rapidly.

c.34.75 # c.61.7

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 3rd March

1978

Cambridgeshire County Council have imposed the highest rate increase of more than
400 local councils in the country. It fixed a rate of 76p in the pound, an increase
of 20 per cent on last year. But the Council’s Conservative leader said it was
necessary owing to the lack of further financial aid from the Government. Despite
all the Government’s claims that local government is being helped this year,
Cambridgeshire is now substantially worse off than it was before. This year the
council expects to spend more than £100 million on running public services. The
Government, through its rate support grant system will pay £31.5 million, with the
balance being footed by the ratepayers.

1953

Bar takings at the Exning Road Working Men’s Club at Newmarket during 1952 were
nearly £11,280 – a new record for the third year running and this, more than
anything, reflected the manner in which members supported the club. It played a
prominent part in social activities of the area and had developed into a community
centre. It had no party politics and no class distinction but a happy atmosphere
always prevailed and that had a great deal to do with its success.
1928

A Duxford builder was charged with stealing three gallons of Ethyl petrol, value
4s. 3d. and a petrol tin from a garage at Whittlesford. The man said he had gone to
the garage for a quart of oil and saw this special petrol. He had never seen it
before and thought he would try some. He picked up a can within full view of the
pumps and emptied it into his tank. He put another into the dickey, which was left
open. After leaving the garage he went straight to London.

1903

P.C. Salmon told the court he had been called to Fulbourn signal box and found the
stationmaster and another man in charge of the box with the door locked. The
defendant, a signalman, was outside. He was drunk and creating a disturbance.
Subsequently he’d gone back to the station, got inside the box and abused the man
who had taken his place. The policeman had ejected him but the man remained very
close to the station and was abusive. He had also been ejected from the Railway
Tavern and the magistrates were glad the landlord had acted properly. He should
always be careful in dealing with railway men.

c.26.2

Tuesday 4th March

1978

No public libraries in Cambridgeshire will be closed this year – and books stocks
will not be depleted – although the County Council is facing a continuing financial
crisis. The council had threatened to close the Milton Road and Mill Road libraries
in Cambridge, village libraries at Stapleford and Milton and two libraries in
Peterborough. The threats caused storms of protest and now financial experts have
discovered the council has saved £60,000 on last year’s spending which can be used
to buy new books.

c.77.4

1953

“Why not let the façade of the Assize Courts on Castle Hill be used as a ‘Marble
Arch’ for the new Spine Relief Road” asked the Mayor of Cambridge during
discussions on its removal. The City Council had been very concerned about its
preservation but to dismantle and remake it would cost £12,000 and architects said
it could not be placed on the new building. It was a secondary monument and not old
enough to be preserved, being built in 1840. But the stone figures on the roof were
to be saved.

c.34.9.

1928

Some time ago an application was made for the use of the Green End pond at
Cottenham as a dumping ground for the parish, and permission was given. At a later
meeting a communication was received from about 40 inhabitants living in the
vicinity of the pond protesting and an inquiry was called. Only a few people
attended but a further petition said it was the “one beauty spot” and that
Cottenham “could not afford to lose its picturesque entrance”. (Laughter).
Chesterton council confirmed their decision that the pond be filled in.
1903

An inquest took place at Saffron Walden on a workman who fell from a ladder in the
church whilst preparing for the erection of a memorial window to the late Lord
Braybrooke. A labourer in the employ of Messrs W. Bell and Sons said he was in the
north chapel of the church with the deceased. They were up ladders paperhanging on
the screen for the purpose of keeping the dust out when he heard the deceased’s
foot slip. It was an accident and it was lucky he did not fall on the gas standard.
The man was greatly respected and a most reliable workman. The jury passed a vote
of sympathy to his widow and children.

c.82.01

Wednesday 5th March

1978

‘Giant Haystacks’, otherwise known as Luke McMasters, towers above every other
wrestler in the British ring at 6ft 11in and 32 stone and you could only pity tiny
15½ [FIFTEEN AND A HALF] stone Mike Marino as he stepped into the Corn Exchange
ring to pit his strength against him. The bout looked over when Haystacks body-
slammed Marino to the canvas and, with a contemptuous glance, headed for the
dressing room. But incredibly Marino managed to stagger to his feet before the
count ended and Haystacks could not lumber back into the ring in time. Earlier a
crowd of 700 watched Bert Royal and Vic Falkner beat Hungarian exile Zoltan Boscik
and Britain’s Chris Bailey.

c.38 : wrestling

1953

A Newmarket stable lad was fined £3.10s for being drunk while in charge of a
bicycle and riding without lights. He can pay the fine at the rate of 10s a week.
P.C. Flucker said he saw the defendant riding his machine in an erratic manner in
Newmarket High Street. He was sitting on a saddle which consisted of three springs
with no cover – which was uncomfortable. He veered to the nearside of the road and
finally fell off. Told he would be reported he’d said: “You can send me to prison
for two weeks but I won’t pay a penny”.

1928

In the past Ely had enjoyed mild prosperity but this would not last unless the
Government came to the rescue of agriculturists. This was a manufacturing and
mechanical age and Ely must be prepared to take her part in it; manufacturers
should be encouraged to come down and build factories outside the city, encouraged
by being generously treated so far as assessment of rates was concerned.
Peterborough was none the worse for factories, said Major Gordon Fowler. But
agriculture was the premium industry and employed the biggest number of hands.

c.22

1903
Joshua Taylor are making a special show of all kinds of leather and rubber motor
clothing for drivers of cars and cycles. The exhibit includes the latest styles of
long-thigh motor leggings, leather & tweed motor caps, gauntlet gloves, wind cuffs
and foot muffs. They also specialise in mechanics’ clothing including waterproof,
wooden-soled clogs for washing down cars. – Advert

c.26.48

Thursday 6th March

1978

Work has started on building a walk-way through from the Tesco site at Bar Hill to
the Mall and the shops which back onto the superstore have plans to turn round. The
Tesco superstore has attracted a flood of shoppers to the village – but they only
see the backs of the small shops in the nearby precinct and some do not know the
Mall even exists. One small supermarket and several other shops have closed and a
hairdresser’s and a chemist’s are also closing. The clerk to the parish council
said the village had taken a lot of knocks but would become a “key-centre” in the
region and a great credit to Cambridgeshire

1953

The East Coast floods and the Harrow railway disaster are reasons for joining the
National Health Service Reserve and more than 1,500 more volunteers are needed in
this region. It provides an efficient body of men and women immediately ready when
an emergency arises. The Hospital Board plan to provide 15 static and 20 mobile
First Aid posts. There was a chronic scarcity of hospital beds. At midnight there
had been five empty beds in the men’s ward at Addenbrooke's Hospital but by 8 a.m.
two of these had been filled. It does not take much imagination to picture what
would happen if there were an emergency when something like 100 casualties needed
attention

1928

For the last two weeks the famous King’s College Choir has been struggling on in a
depleted state owing to the illness of the juniors and as a result the daily
evensong service has been suspended. About a fortnight ago some of the 16 choirboys
became ill with mumps and on Sunday the service was carried through by the adult
members only. It is the first time for well over 20 years that these services have
been suspended in this way.

1903

A petition for a new public house at Knapwell was considered by magistrates. The
rectors of Conington and Caxton both said it would be a public advantage as there
was not a public house in the village. There were 24 houses in the village proper,
of which two were empty, two in which only women lived and three had not signed the
petition. Three petitioners lived in one house, one had died and eight had left.
Some did not live in the parish at all. One man had signed for 12 persons who could
not write for themselves.

c.27.4

Friday 7th March

1978

Residents are occupying a deserted house in Fitzroy Street, Cambridge, after

learning that the city council is about to demolish three other “unsafe” houses in
the Kite area. Officers offered to re-assess the situation if the protesters paid
them £340 – the cost of making the buildings safe. The Kite group stayed up
collecting the money, only to be told the council would not accept it after all.
The action is in spite of an assurance that demolition would only take place once
the redevelopment scheme had been approved. The protesters are deeply disturbed
that private citizens have to pay for council work in order to avoid the premature
demolition of sound properties in the Kite.

c.49.4 : Kite
1953

Linton Lime and Chalk Company appealed against a County Council refusal to allow
the construction of houses for their workers on land along the front of the pit.
About 20,000 cubic yards were dug from the pit each year & if it were not possible
to build houses they would cease working. But the County said that other
accommodation would be just as suitable and the firm was trying to secure
permission for residential development so they could sell and secure financial
benefit. Noise, dust and the general position of the site outside the planning
scheme boundary made it unsuitable for residential purposes.

c.23

1928

The object of the Great Chesterford Sparrow and Rat Club is that all members shall
kill one fully-fledged sparrow for each acre, with one rat for every two acres of
his occupation during the year, and that 29 sparrows or 10 rats be the minimum
contribution. Any member not killing the requisite numbers will be fined a half-
penny an acre; the money going towards the cost of the annual dinner. During the
year 5,989 rats and 3,126 sparrows had been killed.

c.19

1903

The well-known aeronaut, Rev J.M. Bacon, an old scholar of Trinity College said the
afternoon of his first balloon ascent was a very boisterous one and it was only the
consummate skill of Captain Dale that brought them safely to earth again. Not long
afterwards Captain Dale was dashed to pieces and lost his brave life. He made one
ascent to witness a wonderful shower of meteors when, instead of being up for two
hours, he was drifting helpless for 10. His experiments in the use of a balloon in
time of war and his races, carrying despatches against 70 cyclists, are well known
and the graphic views which illustrated them made the lecture at Cambridge
Guildhall additionally attractive.

BALLOON # c.26.1

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 10th March

1978

Princess Anne was mobbed by student demonstrators when she arrived at the Cambridge
Union Society Rag charity debate. She was held up outside the door by demonstrators
sitting in her path and screaming abuse. They were protesting that the motion “The
woman’s place is in the harem” was sexist” and none of the abuse was directed
personally against the princess. Nearly 150 demonstrators representing a variety of
student groups including Gay Cambridge, Anarchists and Men Against Sexism picketed
all entrances to the building. Other guests ran the gauntlet, Derek Nimmo was spat
on and Robert Morley was catcalled and buffeted.

c.02 # WOMEN

1953

Remains found in an ancient grave at Snailwell were handed to the University Museum
of Archaeology. The grave is of a Belgic chieftain who died a short time before the
Roman invasion. He was cremated and the small heap of bones that remain were buried
in a bag together with his shield and some food such as ox, a small pig and some
fowl. Some of the pottery utensils still bear the marks of the potter who made
them. It is the first of its kind to be found locally for over 50 years

c.41

1928

An interesting debate on “the flapper vote” was held at the Liberal Assembly Rooms,
Cambridge. In many spheres of life women were giving valuable service yet they
could not have the vote until they were 30 years of age. But the modern girl knew
practically nothing about politics. Give the woman of 21 the vote and they would
out-vote the men – was that fair? (“Yes”). If women got the vote then the country
would only be just “flapping” about. The vote should be used properly and a group
of giggling girls could not do that.

WOMEN # c.33

1903

Thomas Askham was summoned for presenting a stage play, “Robinson Crusoe”, at the
Grand Circus and Hippodrome, Auckland Road, Cambridge, the building not being
licensed as a theatre. There was pantomime action and considerable dialogue in
verse. There was a temporary stage with scenery at the back and footlights. But it
could not be described as a play, it was only an entertainment. The Theatre catered
for the ‘Varsity and the better classes and the more humble people went to this
music-hall and circus.

c.76

Tuesday 11th March

1978

Both St Matthews and Park Street schools in Cambridge are housed in high-ceilinged,
drab buildings. There are no green playing fields, the playgrounds are cramped and
asphalted and Park Street has outside lavatories. But for all this they inspire a
great deal of loyalty from parents who see them as small family schools within a
community. Both are in the central area and a few years ago found their rolls were
dropping. But now there is a definite trend bringing young families back into the
city centre terraced houses and they are battling to save the schools from closure.

c.36.5

1953

Police inquiries are being made to find the person responsible for blocking
Magdalene Street in Cambridge with a length of iron fencing. It was stretched
across the road, one end was chained to a lamp post and the other to a direction
sign. There was a red lamp in the centre with a notice “Beware – foot and mouth
disease”. There was a diversion sign on the bridge and on Northampton Street
traffic lights was a sign that warned, “Track closed”.

1928

Magdalene College hopes that a start will soon be made on the building of a new
court on the opposite side of the Street. Plans have been drawn up for a three-
sided brick court open to the river, traditional in style. The flank parallel with
Magdalene Street will not interfere with the existing shops, but the thoroughfare
is long overdue for widening and from the remodelled bridge there would then be a
noble prospect of the new court with a lawn or gravel forecourt separated from the
pavement by a low parapet.

c.44.5 # c.44.6

1903

A dangerous outbreak of fire occurred at 245 Mill Road, Cambridge when a lighted
standard lamp was accidentally knocked over by a child. The contents of the lamp
spilled upon the floor and became ignited near to the windows. Before the flames
were extinguished the curtains, Venetian blinds and several articles of furniture
were destroyed and a carpet and table cover badly damaged. News of the fire was
received through the Mill Road fire alarm post but when firemen arrived at the
scene with the horsed fire escape and tender the fire had been extinguished.

Wednesday 12th March

1978

House-hunters looking to live in the country should be prepared to put up with

country life – like flies and farmyard smells, said Coun Ken Turner of Hardwick.
“Some people come into villages – they might be called the bed-and-breakfast
residents – and the first thing they want to do is do away with the country way of
life”. Coun John Impey from Melbourn said a chicken farmer had been threatened with
enforcement action by the environment department after a complaint about flies. The
flies were not from his farm and it seemed unfair that pressure could be put on a
long-established business because someone had decided to build homes nearby

1953

The University has invited the City Council to join them in making representations
for a municipal abattoir to be built in Cambridge. It would be under the control of
the council but provide facilities for University departments who need specimens
for research and for the School of Veterinary Medicine. Meat inspection is an
important element in vets’ training and it would be an advantage if there were
facilities in Cambridge.

1928

Plans were submitted for a proposed new slaughterhouse at the rear of the White
Hart Hotel, Ely. The Medical Officer pointed out the unsuitable position - there
were 17 dwelling houses within 200 feet. The council had been very lenient in
refusing to condemn existing slaughterhouses on the ground it might be a hardship
to the owners, but the granting of a new licence was entirely different. It would
be a great disappointment to a man who was starting a fresh business and a public
abattoir was out of all reason as the ratepayers would have to find a lot of money
for the benefit of four or five butchers. The application was refused.

1903

There are a number of Canadian Farmers’ Delegates offering to the depressed English
agriculturist a chance in the farmer’s El Dorado, Western Canada. James D Bambridge
of Manitoba is visiting Cambridge to answer questions. The Canadian government
gives a free grant of 160 acres of land to every emigrant, most of it prairie –
virgin soil, rich in quality. It is not only farmers they want but all labouring
classes, male and female, who can make $250 [TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS] a year

c.22

Thursday 13th March

1978

Planners have given the go-ahead to Sawston Parish Council to use part of the
village car park as a weekend skateboard track. But South Cambs District Council
decided to absolve themselves from risk of injury claims and leave the question of
any insurance up to the parish council. They plan to rope off the area on Saturday
afternoons and Sundays to solve the problem of youngsters skateboarding on
pavements.

1953

If you have a few hours to spare any day – including Sundays – you will be welcome
at the W.V.S. depot at Madingley Road, Cambridge. There in the huge wartime
aircraft hangar a big job still awaits. The surge of generosity following the East
Coast floods produced vast quantities of clothing of all kinds and the boxes and
bundles are stacked to the roof. They need to be sorted and prepared for despatch.
The building is bright and warm and an amplification system is in operation to
provide music while you work. A midday meal is provided and a sandwich tea in the
afternoon but the reward is to see the lorries leaving every day loaded with neat,
clearly-labelled packages which will help to ease the burden of families whose
possessions were destroyed in a single night.

1928

Over 1,000 Scouts raised their voices in a Zulu chorus when their Chief, Sir Robert
Baden-Powell attended their mammoth rally at Cambridge Guildhall. They packed the
hall nearly to the point of solidity including Sea Scouts and University Rovers and
some 600 Wolf Cubs. The Chief Scout was accompanied by Dr Eastman, the Great Chief
of the Sioux Indians, who is commissioner of the Scouts of America. He wore
complete Redskin garb with the traditional head-dress of eagles’ feathers. The
scouts were very interested in his tomahawk.

c.37.9

1903

Sir – I read in the CDN of the advantages for the farming man in Canada. I know it
to be true; I went to London, Ontario and found it a beautiful, healthy and
prosperous country, inhabited by intelligent, hospitable people. I am sure that any
industrious Englishman will have a hearty welcome in the Dominion of Canada – W.
Pitstow, James Street, Cambridge.
c.22

Friday 14th March

1978

Down on the pig farm something stirred, for it was the day of the VIP visit by the
Leader of the Conservative Party, Mrs Margaret Thatcher. First came the locals,
anxious to get a glimpse of the woman dubbed the Iron Maiden. Next came the convoy
of Pressmen, then the motorcade of organisers and officials. All eyes stretched
skywards for a glimpse of the helicopter which ferried her from a tub-thumping
speech at Wisbech to the Sears Brothers pig unit at Manea, one of the largest and
most modern in the area. She was soon talking shop with the stockman, Mr Grenville
Emmerson. Mrs Thatcher described it as the most efficient pig farm she had seen and
with a classic smile and wave she was off to Peterborough, leaving the pigs to
wonder what all the fuss had been about.

c.33

1953

The former tenant of Tower Farm, Tadlow told the bankruptcy court it was a situated
a mile from the nearest road and accessible only by a mud track. When he took it in
1947 it was in a very dilapidated condition. He cut back the hedges and carried on
mixed farming but owing to the nature of the farm and the lack of proper draining
he found it impossible to cultivate the full acreage and the last three harvests
had been poor. He had sold his furniture and effects at the Downing Arms but was
amazed at the way things went cheaply. People seemed to think the sale was a farce.

c.22

1928

A meeting was held to resuscitate the Cambridgeshire Miniature Rifle Association

which had lapsed since 1914. It was a fascinating sport and if they got hold of
young fellows and taught them about a rifle they became enthusiastic supporters.
After the war there was a great apathy about shooting but now great keenness was
being shown

c.38 : shooting

1903

One of the best cinematographic entertainments ever seen in Cambridge is running at

the Guildhall. The North American Animated Photo. Co. are showing some of the most
interesting sights it is possible to conceive. Mr Joseph Chamberlain landed at
Southampton on Saturday and on Monday a series of pictures were showing the
Cambridge folk his reception. The operator was busy at work on Fenner’s on Saturday
where the Cambridge athletes achieved a sweeping victory. Music adds to the
attraction. The entertainment will be repeated twice a day.

c.76.9

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 17th March

1978

The latest scheme for the Kite redevelopment in Cambridge threatens to collapse
amid renewed bitterness and bumbledom. The 20-year-old history of “something being
about to be done” has resulted in large-scale blight and buildings mouldering
beyond repair. Just as predictable as crumbling masonry has been the increasing
fed-upness of the people living in the area. They fought long and hard but until
last week most of them realised their cause was lost and that the latest scheme
would go ahead. Now at the last moment it probably won’t because of a blunder by
council officials.

1953

Plans for slum-clearing within Cambridge and for the transfer of tenants from
under-occupied properties were outlined at the city council. At present people on
the 5,000-strong waiting list will have to wait as long as 15 years for a home. Ald
Langdon said: “Cambridge has been expanding into the countryside, but inside it is
rotten to the core. We have got to clear the slum houses which are a great expense
to the council, but what are we going to do with the people living in dilapidated
houses which were condemned before the war”. The council is now concentrating on
providing smaller dwellings and blocks of flats, but land will be very scarce in
the future.

c.23

1928

An inquest into the death of a student at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, was told he
had been attending a meeting of the Twelfth Club, a literary society which held a
dinner once a year. Afterwards he went to a student’s room and whiskeys and soda
went round in the ordinary way. He was a scholar of great promise and it was to be
regretted that someone out of youthful folly had filled his glass with neat whisky.
He had slipped down in one of the courts sustaining severe injuries. It was quite
possible that the fresh air affected him.

c.36.9

1903

Magistrates considered renewing the licences of various public houses. The Hoops at
Barton was in an untidy state; at Chesterton the Castle Inn was much improved but
the Prince of Wales had a great deal of accommodation and was the best in the
district. The Black Bull at Longstanton was a genuine business for the benefit of
the public and was absolutely essential. The George and Dragon, Swavesey had four
bedrooms but the back entrance gave facility for secret drinking – this was a
parish where there were too many public houses in proportion to the population. The
licence was granted on condition the back way was closed up

c.27.4

Tuesday 18th March

1978

Life may return to the disused parish church at Little Raveley – but its walls
could ring with the sound of family living instead of hymns. The 700-year-old
church, which has been empty for almost 10 years, may be offered for sale for
conversion to a house. The vicar said: “Even when it was open the last few services
were attended by only a handful of people. The cost of maintaining and restoring it
would be out of all proportion to the number of people who would be involved as a
congregation. People now go to the Upwood church” Arrangements would be made to
separate the graveyard from the church with a small area of land used as a garden

c.82.01

1953

The site of England’s oldest bookshop has just changed hands for the 14th time in
more than 350 years. Messrs W.H. Smith have acquired Bowes and Bowes’ shop on the
corner of Trinity Street which has a heritage of bookselling, publishing and
binding that goes back as far as 1581. In 1807 it belonged to John Nicholson, son
of the celebrated ‘Maps’ who went his rounds of the University with a moveable
stall laden with textbooks and called out “Maps and pictures”. Later Kingsley and
other literary men held ‘tobacco parliaments’ on religion and politics, Wordsworth
reclined there, Thackeray dined there and Tennyson first read “Maud” in the Long
Room, now the Foreign Department.

c.25

1928

A man told Cambridge magistrates he had been asked for some side screens for a
motor car. He got into a Morris Oxford car in Drummer Street parking place,
Cambridge, and drove it as far as the cemetery. He took the side screens out,
rolled them up in a rug and sold them to an Ely man for a £1 note and an electric
motorcycle lamp.

1903

There are several places of worship at Waterbeach but the one that most strikes the
imagination of the outsider is the Baptist Church in which the Rev Charles Spurgeon
ministered, and from which, even at the present time, the glamour of his
personality has not departed. The members celebrated the centenary of the
foundation of the church building which preceded the present one. It had a thatched
roof and a brick floor and was burned down about 1862.

c.82.05

Wednesday 19th March

1978

Addenbrooke's Hospital, one of the world centres of medical excellence, is in

danger of losing its international status through lack of money. The hospital is
overspending by £200,000 a year. Once described as “a Rolls Royce hospital being
run on a Mini budget” it has been in the forefront of medical advance in
transplantation, eye and brain surgery and leukaemia treatment. But it has never
had the financial recognition to support its regional specialities which pull
patients from outside Cambridge.

1953

With Old Mother Riley there is no compromise – either you like her immensely or you
dislike her intensely. And judging by the queues at the New Theatre the ‘likes’
heavily outnumber the ‘dislikes’ in Cambridge. In ‘Going Gay’ she takes the lion’s
share of the programme in several amusing sketches. The humour is of the simple,
homely kind in which Arthur Lucan excels. A lot of people will be looking for the
boisterous fun and frolic which has become identified with the name of Old Mother
Riley and they will not be disappointed.

c.76

1928

Great damage was caused by fire at Southill House, Bedfordshire, the country seat
of the famous brewery family of Whitbread. It is a beautiful country mansion and
stands in the finest and most extensive part on the county. A fire spread to half-
a-dozen neighbouring rooms including the billiard room. The maids and domestic
staff had an exciting time and the girls went off over fields to arouse the
employees living in different parts of the estate. The staff cleared the mansion of
all valuables, including many fine portraits in oil. There was one casualty. A man
was carrying a Gainsborough valued at £2,000 when he slipped and the picture fell
with a crash. A light was brought and it was found that the man had accidentally
put his foot through the picture.

1903

For some time past the police have been busy in the village of Clavering,
endeavouring to unravel a mystery. Five years ago a man, who appeared to be a man
of means, rented an isolated farm where he was joined by a lady who was said to
possess a considerable amount of money. She has since disappeared and nothing has
been seen or heard of her. The man was charged with forging her cheque and bank
notes amounting to £600 were found upon him. Now a skull, believed to be that of a
middle-aged lady, has been discovered at the farm.

c.34.6

Thursday 20th March

1978

Bottles and stones were thrown at a Huntingdon headmaster after an incident at St

Peter’s School sparked off a demonstration by more than 200 pupils. Police were
called after pupils who had been sent home at lunchtime because of teachers’
industrial action, returned to find a gate locked. Motorists complained that
children were blocking the road, making it difficult for cars to get through. But
the head said the demonstrators were a group of disobedient children spurred on by
a small group who were not members of the school and that the gates had been locked
in an attempt to cause trouble.

c.36.6

1953

The Mayor (Ald S.T. Bull) formally opened the first two police houses to be erected
in Cambridge. He said that some new recruits come from other parts of the county
and they, like most human beings, marry and have families. There are three police
houses in the area but they have no indoor sanitation. The new houses are easy to
run, with light and pleasant room. There are 16 police houses being built and they
will be sited at Walpole Road, Queen Edith’s Way, Fulbourn Road and Coleridge Road.

c.34.7

1928
A remarkable story of how a Willingham flower and fruit grower took a farm at
Whittlesford in order to get his two sons set up in farming and lost £2,600 over
it, was told at the Bankruptcy Court. In 1881 he’d set up as a nurseryman and
flower and fruit grower and bought additional land, but lost a considerable sum in
a malting business in Ware. In 1920 he set up his two sons as farmers at
Whittlesford New Farm. The cause of his failure was four barren seasons through the
weather.

c.22.4

1903

A large number of ladies interested in cycling met for the purpose of forming a
cycling club for the benefit of those ladies engaged in business during the day in
order to provide some recreation in their evening and leisure time. Runs and
picnics will be arranged during the summer with socials and dances in winter. No
opposition was aroused until the question of colours was arrived at and light blue
and pink were decided upon. There was a little more discussion as to how they were
to be worn but it was decided to leave it to the discretion of the members.

c.26.485

Friday 21st March

1978

A new reservoir at Abbotsley might never be needed. Speculation about the future of
hundreds of acres of farmland has been rife since the area was put forward as a
reservoir 14 years ago. But now it is felt that the water needs can be met by
developing Grafham Water, and a number of other options ensure the idea will not
even be considered until at least 2001. The key factor is the big fall in the rate
of population growth. But planners are not completely ruling out the scheme, it is
just not on the cards within many people’s lifetime.

c.24.2

1953

Business at the Bene’t Street, Cambridge, branch of Barclay’s Bank has expanded to
such a degree over recent years that additional premises are required to handle an
‘overflow’ of work. Now a new bank has been built at 3, St Andrew’s Street. The
counter is made of Honduras mahogany and glass panelling is extensively used, a
modern feature which nevertheless preserves the traditional dignity of a bank.
There is a unique feature about the new bank. Alongside the wall facing the church
is a line of thirty tombstones, some 250 years old, which had to be displaced
during building operations.

c.32.8

1928
A farmer at Pond Farm, Witchford, said that bad seasons, a fall in prices and land
difficult to deal with in unfavourable seasons were among the cause of his failure.
Other causes were the high cost of labour, and the Ouse Drainage Board. He took
over the farm in 1915 and his father later bequeathed him some land, which was
hired as smallholdings, but the tenants, surrendered it because they could not
carry on. But he had an idea he could make it pay. He cleared the land with engine
cultivation and ploughing but the drought set in and he got scarcely anything. Then
a wet season ‘did him down’ and he surrendered the farm to the landlords because he
was unable to pay the rent.

c.22

1903

A two-year-old baby boy was found on a seat on the Cambridge Railway Station
platform. Nobody could be found to claim the youngster who was contentedly munching
a bun and entirely oblivious to his surroundings. He was fairly well dressed but
had no parcel containing extra clothes or anything that could lead to his
identification. The Great Northern stationmaster’s wife (Mrs Fenn) took charge of
the little fellow and he was subsequently given into the charge of the police and
removed to the Workhouse to await identification.

CHILDREN #

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 24th March

1978

Heavy snowfalls caught motorists unaware as blizzards blew across East Anglia. As
road gritter lorries struggled to get out into the roads in Cambridgeshire the A.A.
warned that conditions could turn the county into a skating rink. Heavy lorries
were unable to negotiate the Gog Magog Hills and two articulated lorries slewed
across the road, blocking it. At Haverhill the Castle Manor School closed down when
hundreds of children from outlying areas were unable to reach the town in coaches
and cars.

c.12

1953

Amid the nation-wide sorrow at the death of Queen Mary, the sadness of the people
of Cambridge is of a deeper and more personal nature. For this City has known her
not only as a gracious lady but also as a charming, friendly and human personality.
For more than 20 years she came at frequent intervals to call at Mr Stanley
Woolston’s antique shop and the people of Cambridge came to accept it as a normal
part of the city’s life. But the news was sufficient to cause a flutter of
excitement and to attract a crowd to St Andrew’s Street to demonstrate their
affection.

c.02

1928

Cambridge councillors debated the deplorable behaviour of certain members of the

University. In the places of entertainment bad language was frequent and disorderly
acts occurred in the streets. At the present time special constables were composed
entirely of tradesmen and at certain times of the year the year the Chief Constable
should try to enrol University fellows, tutors and dons. The proposal was rejected.
c.34.7

1903

Since the declaration of peace last year the ranks of the unemployed in
Cambridgeshire have been swelled by the steady influx from South Africa of
thousands of discharged soldiers and reservists which has seriously upset the
labour market. One cannot pay a visit to the tramp ward of any Workhouse without
being impressed by the number of inmates who are evidently returned “heroes”. In
1901 7,754 vagrants were relived at the various Unions in the district, last year
the number had risen to 9.591. Cambridge spends the least per head – two shillings
and three farthings – whilst Linton spends the most, six shillings and eightpence
halfpenny.

c.32.1

Tuesday 25th March

1978

Cambridge schoolchildren will soon get their first skateboard park, perhaps two.
Cambridge councillors earmarked money to convert hard tennis courts at Romsey and
Trumpington with wooden embankments and ramps, but it may not now be possible to do
both. They also decided that the former council storeyard off Newmarket Road would
be ideal for the building of a large-scale permanent skateboard park. Four
commercial firms interested in building a park have approached the council who have
agreed to offer the land on lease if the park is built at no cost to the
ratepayers.

1953

Marshal Tito saw two Meteor jets collide in mid-air and crash in flames as he was
watching an air display at Duxford airfield. He jumped to his feet in horror as a
great burst of red flame rose hundreds of feet into the air behind some trees at
Chrishall. They were two of the four jets which had swept past his armchair before
taking off. From their open cockpits the pilots each gave an “eyes left” to the
Marshal who saluted back. Just after the crash there was a poignant moment when the
two surviving Meteors touched down. Tito rose from his armchair, stood to attention
and saluted the planes in tribute to the dead pilots.

c.26.1

1928

Sir – May I draw attention to a new form of pastime which should be nipped in the
bud before some fatality is recorded. I refer to the increasing practice of boys
using roller skates in the streets and on the pavements. This afternoon two lads
were careering along Regent Street amongst the traffic. Other towns have already
taken action to put a stop to this new boyish craze and it is to be hoped that
Cambridge will do likewise – “Safety First”

c.38 : skating

1903

Why do men forsake public worship, asked the Rev Joseph at Cambridge Guildhall.
Inquiries had been made of four men in a college kitchen. One said: “Because we
don’t want to be hypocrites”; another: “I get nothing there worth listening to”;
the third: “The parsons are such humbug”. The fourth said: “Because so-called
Christian men don’t live up to the teaching of Christ and they standard they
themselves set up”. In summer it was beneficial and in no way harmful to spend
Sundays in the open air.

c.83

Wednesday 26th March

1978

The Three Tuns at Fen Drayton won’t look quite the same once Bert Culmer has gone.
Not only will regulars miss his familiar face behind the bar, they will also have a
job to recognise the interior of the pub, stripped of the collector’s pieces he has
covered the walls with during the past 27 years. Hardly an inch in the bars was
left uncovered by brasses, guns, swords, wooden carvings, lamps and pictures. Some
of the brasses, which took nearly five hours a week to clean, will go with him, but
most of the collection will be auctioned. Scruffy his talking parrot, who has been
with him for 12 years now, was for once lost for words.

1953

Marshal Tito paid a surprise visit to Cambridge; police took stringent security
measures and many people were surprised to see a fleet of a dozen cars, escorted by
police patrolmen on motor-cycles, sweeping along the streets. It was not until late
in the afternoon when it became known that the distinguished visitor was the
Yugoslav President. At the University Library Special Branch detectives screened
all visitors in the most stringent security measures ever undertaken on the visit
of a foreign statesman. He then visited the Engineering Department and Downing
College.

c.02

1928

On Saturday was laid to rest in Chesterton churchyard the last surviving child of
the Rev Michael Gibbs, once Treasurer of St Paul’s cathedral. He was appointed to
Barrington in 1835 and found the church in decay, rain pouring through the roof and
the north door gone. All this he repaired but when the villagers saw the door
replaced they remonstrated, saying “But where are our cattle from the green to go
in winter?” He also got a thatched school built.

1903

The little village of Saxon Street was the scene of a fire which resulted in the
total destruction of two cottages, caused by a spark from a chimney falling on the
thatched roof. From the moment the thatch caught fire the flames rapidly spread.
Willing neighbours assisted with the removal of the furniture and one rescued a 70-
year-man who had fallen from a stack and received such severe injuries as
necessitated him having to keep to his bed. He succeeded in removing the old man to
a shed but ran a great risk of losing his own life, the roof threatening to fall in
and bury him at any minute.

c.34.75
Thursday 27th March

1978

The Kite, once the busiest out-of-centre shopping precinct in Cambridge is no

longer flying high. Years of indecision by the City Council about the site and
shape of successive rebuilding schemes have left their mark. The uncertainty had
already led to the closure of Laurie and McConnall’s and a number of smaller shops,
branches of national chain stores have also moved away. The closures have meant
fewer shoppers being attracted to the area and a general run down of business for
many of the traders.

1953

King Hussein of Jordan had a flight in a helicopter, saw the beauty of King’s
College Chapel and had dinner at Trinity college during a short visit to Cambridge.
His first engagement was a visit to the Bourn works of Pest Control Ltd and as his
car covered the last mile to the entrance it was escorted by a crop-spraying
helicopter keeping pace 50 feet overhead. News that the locust threat in his own
country has become very grave increased the importance of a demonstration of
methods employed in the destruction of the pest

c.02

1928

Sir – may I appeal to rookery owners who find it necessary to keep down the number
of rooks to have their eggs taken with sectional rods. This is far better than
shooting a number of helpless creatures who need not have been born. It is so
cowardly to shoot the poor rooks as they sit on the edge of the nest. Bang! and a
nest full of helpless creatures is blown to pieces with a shotgun. Could anything
be more revolting and unsporting. – “Play Fair”

c.19

1903

Ely Social Anglers have some 40 paying members but there was a lack of enthusiasm.
Although they offered various prizes for the best fish caught not one single fish
had been weighed in. It had been an unsatisfactory season but surely someone had
landed something worth weighing. Monthly meetings were held at which all members
were invited to attend in convivial and piscatorial conversation and debate but
they had not been a success.

Friday 28th March

1978

The new Beehive home interiors centre opened in Cambridge by the Co-operative
Society is unique in Britain. With more than 25,000 square feet of space, home
interiors are laid out in authentic room settings and the Co-op has gone up-market.
There is a four-piece suite which costs a cool £1,000. They hope to supply all the
goods on show from the stock carried in the ground-floor warehouse and people will
be able to hire roof racks or vans to get it home if their cars won’t take it. It
has a children’s cinema so that parents can leave their children occupied while
they discuss furniture with the sales staff.
c.27.2

1953

The Bury St Edmunds coroner has been informed of the discovery of an important
treasure. While two warreners employed by the Elvedon Estate were hunting for
rabbits at Sketchfarheath they came across a number of loose coins. They then made
a careful search and brought up a grey earthenware pot containing 1,143 silver
coins, mostly Roman Denarii in excellent condition.

c.41

1928

The Women’s Institutes Home Crafts Exhibition at the Guildhall features an display
of the rooms of village homes, the furniture and other smaller articles of which
had been made by the villagers themselves. A sitting room had been made by Balsham
members, including a carved sideboard, tables and chairs, a settee made out of
boxes and cushions, and a screen made by 23 men. The Barton group showed a bedroom
with a wash-hand-stand with marble top. Even the soap was home made and a pair of
candlesticks were made of cotton-reels.

1903

Two Newmarket men were charged with assisting a private in the 3rd Suffolk Regiment
to desert, by supplying him with civilian clothing and disposing of his uniform. A
widow said the man had brought a red tunic to her house and asked her to buy it for
a shilling and make a hearthrug with it. She found a number on one of the pockets
and handed it to the police. P.C. Page said he went to a house and found a shirt, a
pair of trousers and tunic. A day later he went to Swaffham and was handed a coat.
One of the defendants said he had gone to a public house in Newmarket, got drunk,
and bought the clothes from a man who said he had just come from South Africa

c.45.4

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 31st March

1978

The future of the picturesque St John’s Church, Duxford hangs in the balance. It
dates back to the 13th century but has not been used as a parish church for more
than 150 years and was declared redundant in 1976 by the Church Commissioners.
Several attempts have been made to find a buyer and one scheme to turn it into a
house fell through. When a recent public inquiry turned down a scheme for a village
community centre the church was mentioned as a possible site where some village
activities could take place.

c.82.01

1953

For over 50 years James Bird has served beer over the same bar at the Star and
Garter, Cheveley, a pub which goes back well over 200 years. He took over in August
1901, his wife having lived there since 1886 - her grandparents (Mr & Mrs Beale)
then kept the pub. In 1910 he wrote to the village Coronation Celebrations
Committee offering to cater for 400 adults at 2s. a head, for which price there was
roast beef, mutton, pickles and beer. “I suppose we have known just about everybody
in the village and can look back on many good times”, he said, recalling lavish
shooting lunches & early mornings when hot coffee and rum was served to the
waggoners.

c.27.4

1928

The largest bombing aeroplane in the British service, the “A” came down on
Newmarket Heath and was exceedingly fortunate to make a safe landing. P.C. Bacon
saw the aeroplane cross over Newmarket and turn back. It was evidently in distress
for it had a strong searchlight turned on the ground as if seeking a landing and
was firing red warning lights from its signal pistols. The descent was rather
hurried and the plane bounced ten feet into the air from the impact with the earth.
One of its two engines had ceased to work; mechanics put it right and stopped a
leak in a petrol tank and the plane resumed its flight.

c.26.1

1903

Two Newmarket men were charged with assisting a private in the Suffolk Regiment to
desert, by supplying him with civilian clothing and disposing of his uniform. Sarah
Covey, a widow, said one of the men had brought a red tunic to her house and asked
if she would buy it for a shilling and make a hearthrug with it. He also brought a
coat, which he said would do for a man who worked in the fields, and a pair of
trousers. He claimed his cousin who had been to the front gave them to him. Later
he said he had met a man in a pub and had given him some old clothes in exchange
for the uniform.

Tuesday 1st April

1978

Naturalists are trying to account for a dramatic decline in the number of hares in
Cambridgeshire. It’s reached such an extent that the Cambridge Woodpigeon Club who
have traditionally rounded off their winter stints with a hare shoot, have had to
call it off. Various theories have been put forward for their decline including
high prices which could have led to them being overexploited recently. A lot of
hares are shot for export to the Continent. Farmers however are pleased at the drop
for it means less damage to crops where the impact of hares has sometimes been
overlooked because of the even worse damage done by rabbits.

c.19

1953

With a rosy glow reflected on the windows of Great St Mary’s church, a University,
City and County congregation paid their last respects to her late Majesty, Queen
Mary. While the beautiful gaunt notes of the Dead March in Saul rang through the
pillared church there was a silence so complete, so moving as to be perhaps the
loveliest and most memorable part of Cambridge people’s memorial to the late Queen.
Then led by the Mayor and Corporation the congregation melted out into the
brightness of a fine March day.

c.02

1928

Owners of land served by Twentypence Road, Cottenham agreed to offer the sum of
30s. per acre as their share towards the cost of making the road a public highway
as part of a scheme to make a through route to the Isle of Ely. The Isle of Ely &
Cambridgeshire County Councils are considering the erection of a bridge at
Twentypence Ferry.

c.44.65

1903

Cambridge Horse Club exists for the amelioration of the suffering of the horse as
well as the benefit of the members. Not only was a member benefited if he lost a
horse, but should the horse become ill it received prompt attention from their
veterinary surgeon, Mr Bennett, and this saved money on doctors’ bills. The number
of horses was 177; during the year eight had been lost and £80 had been paid to the
owners who were well satisfied with their compensation. There had been an outbreak
of glanders but the disease had been stopped.

c.19

Wednesday 2nd April

1978

A Cambridge businessman, Lloyd Stokes, has submitted plans to build a 21-acre

industrial estate just north of the old railway on the A10. It is opposite the
Trinity Hall Farm science park which he developed from farmland worth about £130 an
acre and has recently sold for £200,000. Mr Stokes is still involved in a four-year
planning wrangle over what the District Council considers an illegal road at the
rear of the Milton Industrial Estate.

1953

Cambridge rate increases since pre-war years surprised members of the Hundred
Houses Society Ltd. Since 1939 rates for 229 houses on Fallowfields and Eastfields
estates have risen by 85 per cent. The Second World War put an end to the Society’s
activities. Although they have an undeveloped estate at Scotland Farm it has been
found impossible, owing to Government regulations and the economic position of the
country to develop it.

1928

A special issue of the Daily Mail dated 1st January 2000 has been printed in
conjunction with the Ideal Home Exhibition. It contains quite a lot of news about
Cambridge, including the Inter-Varsity Air Pushball Match which was won by
Cambridge in front of a crowd estimated at 2,250,000. On the same day there was a
‘Varsity girls’ boat race in a covered-in stadium in Battersea Park. An air raid
undertaken by undergraduates after a rugby match, which showered the women’s
colleges with confetti and a host of miscellaneous garments, has led to a complete
ban on aeroplanes. The Aeroplane Proctor is to visit every private aerodrome in
Cambridge to see that all undergraduates’ machines are put out of action for the
term.

c.04 # c.75

1903

An inquest was held on the former assistant manager of the Empire Theatre of
Varieties, Cambridge. He had deposited £10 as security on taking the post and after
he had held the position for a month this was to be returned to him in instalments.
But the company was a failure and he had lost his savings in the venture. He had
pawned his watch for half-a-crown and said he did not have a farthing. But he had
£40 in his bank and his mind must have been deranged by his theatrical reverses.

c.76

Thursday 3rd April

1978

Essex County Council may relax its opposition to any expansion of Stansted Airport.
In the face of Government pressure to utilise the airport more fully it may agree
to consider growth to four million passengers a year. But they would take all
possible steps to oppose the growth until final decisions have been made about
future airport policy after the examination of all options open. Uttlesford
District Council, which has been more amenable to growth, have agreed to support
the recommendations.

1953

A jury at an inquest at Elveden Hall found that the hoard of Roman silver coins
found recently in a vase on Lord Iveagh’s Estate were Treasure Trove & named the
two warreners concerned as the finders. The men said they were digging out rabbits
when two-and-a-half feet down they found a vase standing upright. The coins dated
back to the third century and the majority were in mint condition. The Coroner said
the Treasury, to whom the 1,143 coins would be sent, usually treated finders
“extremely generously”.

c.41

1928

The latest issue of ‘The Outlook’ includes an article on motoring in

Cambridgeshire. The writer found out country very much to his liking: “Although the
roads can provide the motorist with nothing exciting in the shape of hairpin bends
or sudden gradients there are pleasantly wooded heights and good level stretches
that open up good possibilities for leisurely exploration. A country rich in scenic
charm, it hides some of England’s loveliest old-fashioned villages & yields the
motorist a bumper measure of road delights”. After this we shall expect a big
invasion of motorists in the near future!

c.26.48

1903

Since the members of Kensit’s Wycliffe Preachers came to Cambridge there has been a
general anticipation that a ‘protest’ by them would be made in one of the local
churches. In an attempt to gain information as to their intentions two dozen
opponents, most of them undergraduates, assembled at the Alexandra Hall to listen
to an address. Afterwards a very heated linguistic duel raged over the doctrine of
transubstantiation. Applause and counter-applause urged on the contestants to
further efforts. A lull in the debate gave an opportunity to take a collection,
which was contributed to by the opponents of the preachers. At the end one
undergraduate asked whether they were going to brawl in any other churches
tomorrow.

c.83

Friday 4th April

1978

Cambridge United, planning for Second Division football next season, want part of
Coldham’s Common for new £100,000 expansion plans. These include a skateboard park
running nearly the length of the Habbin stand, extra car parking and a 2,500-seater
stand over terracing on that side of the ground. Facilities at the Abbey Stadium
have already been stretched to breaking point in the Third Division, most notably
when Peterborough played a local derby in front of 10,998 people in January.

c.38 : football

1953

The Duxford firm of Aero Research has played an important part in the
reconstruction of the Royal State Coach. The late King George VI found the iron
tyres both noisy and uncomfortable and inquired if it would be possible to fit
rubber tyres without changing the traditional appearance of the coach. After 200
years of use the wheels had changed and were no longer truly circular. The firm
needed to build up the wheels to their original shape by applying a thickness of
synthetic resin to the existing tyres.

1928

The official testing of the new bridge over the River Cam at Dimmock’s Cote took
place. It is 216 feet long and 25 feet wide, constructed of ferrous-concrete
throughout and is designed to carry the Ministry of Transport standard loading.
This bridge, together with the bridge over the Old West River, completes the road
which was constructed in the early years of the war for military purposes and
provides direct communication between the Midlands the East Coast, opening up a
large area of agricultural land between Stretham and Wicken. It will be open for
traffic on April 16th.

c.44.75

1903

A licensed refreshment house keeper of East Road, Cambridge, was summonsed for
keeping his premises open during prohibited hours. P.C. Symonds said he saw a man
eating something from a paper outside the shop after 11 o’clock. He told the owner
he had seen a man eating fish, but the defendant said it was potatoes. The man had
come in while he was sweeping the shop out and his wife served him. The policeman
was in plain clothes and never said he was a policeman. The magistrates recorded a
conviction, but there was no further penalty
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 7th April

1978

A common language between social service departments dealing with baby-battering

cases is urgently needed – that is the main finding of an official inquiry into the
death of Soham baby Simon Peacock. The inquiry concludes that there was “an
unfortunate combination of weaknesses in communication” between the Suffolk and
Cambridgeshire County Councils. The recommendations were accepted by both the
authorities involved

1953

Professor Testo’s flea circus is currently featured in the Easter fair on Midsummer
Common. There are jugglers, tight-rope walkers and acrobats all of whom live in a
felt-lined cigar box. It is rather difficult to get fleas these days, he says.
“They must be human fleas. Animal fleas don’t live long enough and they’re not as
strong. Usually we advertise for them, but if I get really short I get them sent
from the College of Entymology. By looking after them carefully, and feeding them
regularly on my own blood, I can keep them alive for about three months. I will pay
sixpence each for them. But I don’t want any of your thin, half-starved ones. They
must be fat and well fed”.

c.76

1928

The sun worked overtime to make Good Friday a glorious harbinger of Easter-tide and
all Cambridge was out of doors. Parker’s Piece proved a popular children’s
playground, and the East Road end, where the quaint survival of Good Friday
skipping is to be seen every year, was alive with the babel of children’s voices.
The inevitable ice-cream carts and sweet stalls did a good trade, and so did the
stalls selling gaily-coloured windmills. A 6,000 crowd, which broke the Milton Road
ground record, saw the Town beat Ipswich in the Southern Amateur League, while
there was a very good attendance at the whippet races at Station Farm.

1903

The Rev K.H. Smith told Ely Burial Board of the state of things at a funeral. The
curator was busy and so was the gravedigger, with their respective engagements,
and, no policeman being on duty, just before the interment the gate was left
unattended. An army of little children came into the cemetery and he narrowly
escaped being swept into the grave by their pushing. There should be some
regulation that children should not be allowed close to the grave at funerals.

Tuesday 8th April

1978

Horace Bull, Britain’s oldest angler – who went sea fishing after his 100th
birthday – celebrated 101 years with a drink and a cigar in his favourite pub, The
Royal Oak at Stretham Bridge. The former Waterbeach butcher who started angling
more than 90 years ago hopes to have another sea fishing trip this year – if he can
find a fellow angler who won’t be sea-sick. For a man who remembers the A10 when it
was just a cart track and who bought whisky for £1 a gallon, Horace is still fit
and active

1953

Outside the Cambridge Labour Party Hall large posters announced that “Syncopating”
Sandy Strickland, the Bolton musician, had started his attempt to play the piano
non-stop for 132 hours. But the doors of the hall were locked and people who were
curious to see the start of this unusual marathon were refused admittance. For
Sandy had met a serious obstacle in the shape of the local licensing laws which
have ruled out his plans for throwing open the hall to the public as it is only
licensed for music between 7 pm and midnight. People living nearby have protested
against the endurance test with the piano tinkling on all night.

1928

The organisers at Foxton took the bold step of holding their garden fete on Easter
Monday. In addition to many side-shows and stalls there was a football match, a
push-ball match causing heaps of amusement, and a concert by Pearl Lambeth’s
Rosebuds who delighted the audience with their dainty work, whilst the fete was
wound up with dancing in the evening. Foxton was not generally called a rich
village, but it was rich with people who could work. The movement for collecting
for the village hall was only started two years ago and they had already obtained
£600

1903

Sergt Mobbs told Newmarket magistrates that he saw an electric motor car going up
the High Street being driven in a very reckless manner. He followed the car to the
Horse Shoe Inn where they saw the defendant leaning against it, very drunk. The
policeman told him he was not fit to drive and another man said he would drive for
him as he had to go to the old station to meet his master, Dan Maher, the jockey.
When the jockey did not arrive the defendant decided that he would drive. The car
was a silent one and when he drove off he turned the lights off and was arrested.
It was a most dangerous thing for a person entrusted with a car to get into such a
state. He was endangering his master’s property as well as the lives of the public
and was fined 20s.

Wednesday 9th April

1978

Quietly and without fuss our daily bread got dearer this week, with the news that
the big three bakeries were adding 2p to the cost of a “standard” sliced and
wrapped loaf, bringing the cost up to 28½ p [TWENTY EIGHT AND A HALF PENCE]. In
Cambridge the price of farmhouse loaves is left to the baker. Bridgeman Bros of
Norfolk Street charge 30½ p [THIRTY AND A HALF PENCE] for a very crusty, tasty and
attractive loaf; Tylers of Mill Road charge 30p, & E.J. How and Godfreys of Regent
Street 29p. The most expensive are Dixon’s of Fitzroy Street & Maskell’s of
Victoria Road who charge 31p for a pale golden, high, crusty, loaf.

1953
About one in every 20 acres of fenland wheat sown last Autumn has been destroyed by
the grub of the wheat bulb fly. In the Isle of Ely, which is worst hit, the
proportion of destruction is as high as one acre in ten. Very badly affected fields
may have to be ploughed up and re-sown. Added to the losses sustained by sea
flooding in the same district this will mean considerable reduction in the wheat
production in a year when the demand is for more cereals.

1928

During dredging operations a short sword, believed to be of 14th century origin,

has been recovered from the Cam. The weapon, which was sharper than one would have
expected, was found near the corner of Saxon Road and will be handed to the Museum
of Archaeology. Two traders’ tokens of ancient date were also found in the river
bed.

1903

Interest in the Moat Farm Mystery has been stimulated by an action against the
editor of the ‘Daily Express’ for contempt in publishing articles tending to
prejudice the fair trial of the man now under remand by Saffron Walden magistrates.
They had put forward the theory that he had murdered the lady whose cheque he was
said to have forged. Other applications were made against the ‘News of the World’
who had published an article practically copied from the ‘Express’, and the ‘Star’,
which had alluded to another charge of forgery against him. The Lord Chief Justice
said it was right to comment upon mysteries and undiscovered crimes but the ‘Star’
had gone beyond fair comment and seemed to connect the person charged with one of
the crimes.

Thursday 10th April

1978

A growing number of rampaging foxes are causing havoc among the hens and ducks of
the area around Wicken Fen, but the warden doubts the foxes are breeding on the
fen. Farmer Stephen Beckett of Isleham said: “Four or five years ago we didn’t know
what a fox was around here. But now we’ve got them all over the area. Six weeks ago
my brother saw a group of three on his land”. The secretary of the Naturalists’
Trust said the fox population had gone up very markedly, but so has the rabbit
population which causes more damage. Elsewhere huntsmen are complaining of a
shortage because of a demand for red fox fur by the fashion industry. An uncured
pelt can fetch £18 before the furrier and fashion house begin to mark up the price
of the finished article.

1953

After an all-night search a Meteor jet fighter from R.A.F. station, Bassingbourn,
was found near Field Barn, Orwell. The pilot’s body was found in the wreckage. At
midnight last night the BBC broadcast an appeal for the plane when it was reported
missing on a routine flight. Police were asked to look out for the aircraft which
was eventually found by an R.A.F. search plane. Mrs D.L. Hallett of Orwell said she
was watching her television set when the house was shaken, but she did not hear
what had happened until morning. Elsewhere in Orwell nothing was heard.

1928

A jobbing gardener was given half a stone of potatoes to plant on Chesterton

allotments, but the owner was disgusted to find that only two rows had been planted
and accused his workman of planting someone else’s acres with his spuds. The
jobbing man came to the conclusion there was only one thing to be done to prove his
innocence and proceeded to dig up the potatoes. All but three were found. An
inquest is now being held to decide whose is the responsibility of replanting what
will be a very valuable crop of early spuds.

1903

There is every probability that the baby recently found at the G.N.R. station has
now but a short time to stay at Cambridge Workhouse. There have been two or three
applications to adopt the child. One, from the neighbourhood of East Road which
read: ‘I have been thinking you might like to board it out’, created a considerable
amount of laughter but did not appeal to the Guardians. A very respectable
tradesman and his wife were very anxious to adopt the baby and inquiries should be
made.

Friday 11th April

1978

The Cambridge Instrument Company is being taken over by the Government following a
trading year in which it lost £2.8 million. That’s the effect of the National
Enterprise Board’s decision to increase its shares to 80 per cent. The intention is
to let the company go independent again in three years time if it makes enough
sales generating cash flow and profits by then. The chairman of the Company said:
“This is the best thing for us in the short and medium term. Now we can go forward
with confidence and have a lot more scope and room in which to manoeuvre”

c.27.1

1953

A goods engine crashed through the buffer stops at Coldham’s Bridge, Cambridge. The
buffer stops were completely demolished and the engine buried itself up to the
footplate in soft earth. The driver and fireman were both admitted to Addenbrooke's
Hospital with slight injuries. Before the engine could be moved the boiler had to
be emptied to lessen the weight. A 45-ton crane was needed to drag it backwards
across a platform of sleepers until it was replaced on the rails. Work was hampered
by the soggy ground and the presence of overhead telegraph wires.

1928

The Cam Conservators had met Pamplin Bros who suggested using two of their steam
tractors, one working at each end of Stourbridge Common, to barrow and roll the
spoil deposited by dredging operations and prepare it for a seed bed. It will also
need one or two horses with chain harrows to get at the small weeds. It was
suggested that to make a good job of it and turn it into a recreation ground a
drainer should be used. This would get rid of the water on the Common and make it
quite dry.

1903

Itinerant vendors of the delicacy inseparable from Good Friday awakened citizens to
the fact that a public holiday was at hand. While the majority of householders were
still sleeping peacefully, unmusical voices in the streets below broke the
stillness of the morning with offers to sell ‘two a penny’ and a proportionate
number for ‘tup-pence’ in a sing-song for which three notes of the scale provided
the tune. All modes of traction were utilised by holiday-makers, affording evidence
of the growing popularity of the motor. Dusty and noisy they may be, but that they
continue to grow more popular there can be no doubt and motorists comprised no mean
section of the Good Friday road traffic.

c.39

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 14th April

1978

Many Cambridge dentists are refusing to give some treatment under the National
Health Service because of their dispute with the Government over pay. Denture
repairs and emergency treatment are in most cases only being done privately by
dentists and a patient was recently quoted £20 as the price for two filling
replacements. Dentists say NHS work is not profitable enough. The rate for a
temporary dressing was 84p – a job which could take 15 minutes and require the
dentist to provide drugs and equipment

1953

The Cambridgeshire Divisional Magistrates Court sat for the last time in the old
Shire Hall Courts, where justice has been meted out for over 100 years. It is just
over eight months since it was found that the building was infested with dry rot
and since then all courts, save the County Bench, have been accommodated in the
Guildhall. Since then there have been many arguments in the County Council Chamber
but the only solution they could find was that the building would have to be
demolished.

c.34.6

1928

Sir – I protest against the ejection of Mr Pauley and his family from the ferry
house, Midsummer Common. They have done their best to find a house but without
success. The man and his son worked the ferry over the river, night and day,
including Sundays, and in all weathers for the convenience of the Cambridge
ratepayers, thus filling one of the most monotonous jobs; the man for 35 years and
the boy for 16. On the completion of the footbridge they are completely cast over,
no compensation being paid and no pension. To send people adrift in this matter is
neither a moral or Christian act – Charles Porter.

c.44.7

1903

On Thursday 23rd April a novel sight will be witnessed at Strange’s Boat House,
when Mr Tom Barton, the popular and world-renowned Log Roller, of Canada, will give
his unique display of rolling a log of Bovril tins on the river. He will give £5 to
anyone who will get on and stand on the log for three minutes. From the boat house
Mr Barton, who is champion of the world in this particular line, will proceed
through the locks and down the river for a mile or two.
Tuesday 15th April

1978

Traffic had to be stopped on Huntingdon river bridge as workmen took down

overhanging boards and tiles from the listed derelict hosiery mill. The owner says
it may soon be sold for redevelopment. Interest in the mill has become greater in
the past few weeks. It might be used for many different things, a hotel, or maybe a
leisure centre

1953

An impressive ceremony was enacted at Swavesey parish church in the laying-up of

the village’s British Legion men’s and women’s section standards. Rain poured in
torrents as a large procession of British legion members from various branches
headed by a combined band from the R.A.F. stations Oakington and Upwood marched to
the church where the congregation included children and First World War veterans

1928

Dancers and band musicians thronged to a dance band contest at the Rendezvous in
Magrath Avenue, Cambridge.. Eleven bands took their turns on the platforms. Each
played a fox-trot and a waltz. A fault with several bands was that the violinists
showed a tendency to overdo their parts. Judging was by popular vote and the
results were: 1st Cambs Mental Hospital Dance Band, 2nd Jack Vivian’s Dance Band &
3rd Sid Parsley’s Dance Band. The winners, who previously were practically unknown
to the dancing public, played in confident style and nicely together. The band is a
six-piece and undoubtedly more will be heard of it.

c.69

1903

The accounts of ‘ragging’ at a Cambridge Theological College led to an interview

with a Cambridge minister acquainted with one of the victims – the man who had the
adornment of his upper lip removed by amateur barbers. The undergraduate did not
have the whole of his moustache removed, but only half of it, the operation
performed while he was held down in his bed. He had a splendid moustache. It was
quite the pride of his mother who was terribly upset over it. His life has been
made thoroughly unbearable by his tormentors, who wanted him to give up preaching.
They have broken all his windows several times and the young fellow has been
thoroughly broken down and ill.

c.36.9 : rag

Wednesday 16th April

1978

The closely-guarded secret about the future of a Tudor cottage at Sawston is out –
it is being advertised for sale by auction. The sale description includes: “Large
gardens with the benefit of potential for residential building plot”. The Parish
Council has protested against any plan to sell the house, which was left by John
Ward in the 16th century to be held for the benefit of the parish church. The
trustees of Ward’s House in Church Lane have been meeting in private to decide what
to do about the property, which is standing empty.

1953
The problem of litter being deposited on the roads in Newmarket resulted in five
lorry drivers being summoned. The business involving the movement of stable manure
had increased considerably and caused great concern. The council engineer said he
was travelling along the Bury Road towards the Clock Tower when he saw a lorry
carrying a load of manure leaving a trail of litter and straw along the road. The
driver said his load was securely raked down and netted as far as possible. His
vehicle had no sideboards and the net did not reach the bottom of the load. He was
fined £2

1928

‘The Times’ has published a picture of the proposed new Cambridge University
Library from the provisional designs prepared by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott. For some
years past the imperative need of additional rooms to accommodate the never-ending
increase of books has been urged but the enormous cost of erecting an entirely new
library on another site – the old playing field of King’s and Clare Colleges -
presented what seemed an insurmountable difficulty. Even if the proposed scheme is
realised it provides for only one-half of the projected library and involves a debt
which will not be cleared for 50 years

c.77.7

1903

Magistrates considered the renewal of the licence of the Unicorn Inn, Trumpington.
The accommodation consisted of three bedrooms, two were furnished and used by those
living in the house. The third, the guest chamber, was at present bare. The
Chairman: Poor guest. Mr Ralkes: He would be a very poor guest who came there.
There was no stabling; the landlord did keep a pony and trap, but whether he kept
them in the unfurnished room he did not know. (Laughter). It was difficult for a
man to make a living there; the actual consumption of beer in the house per week
was half a barrel.

c.27.4

Thursday 17th April

1978

It is often said in Cambridge that the cream of the city’s machinists are at
Cambridge Instruments. They’ve got to be good, working to measurement of one
millionth of an inch in metal. And the firm is now looking for people with the same
high skill level to help boost output. To younger people, training at CI can be the
springboard for a career anywhere in the industry, within the company on promotion
or anywhere in the world. A major expansion programme and a rapidly rising inflow
of international orders have created 70 new jobs. Some 750 people work at the
factory in Rustat Road

1953

The circus has come to town – and it was greeted by thousands of smiling Cambridge
faces. Six of Bertram Mills’ Burmese elephants marched from the railway station,
trunk to tail as the midget clown, Nikki, distributed leaflets about the circus
from the basket of his fairy cycle. Elephants Lechney and Company did not lose
their way – they’ve taken the same stroll for the last 18 years. Crowds covered the
roundabout at Hills Road. The one at the Four Lamps was unrecognisable, the circus-
gazers had swept half-way across the road. Soon afterwards the ‘two-ton-tessies;
were under canvas, chained to a platform.

c.76

1928

At Cambridgeshire magistrates court two Willingham men were convicted of stealing

potatoes from their employer, farmer Thomas Langan, and each fined 10s. A London
motorist was convicted of not having a road fund licence at Hauxton; the last
licence had expired in June 1927; fined £10. A Dry Drayton man pleaded guilty to
using a wireless set without a licence; he was unaware he needed one for a crystal
set; fined 10s. Two Cottenham men were convicted of riding bicycles without lights
and fined 7s.6d.

1903

Brewers Lacon and Co appealed against the refusal to renew the licence of the White
Horse, Chesterton. The house was of good repute and considerable size and did a
good trade. It was the best of the firm’s houses in the district. There were some
cottages situated at the back of the property, and though there was no suggestion
of secret drinking, the cottages gave facilities for it. Magistrates wanted an
undertaking either to have the cottages fenced off or not used for human
habitation. They could be turned into stables or something of the sort. Gates had
already been put across the entrances so that anyone could not get to the public
house from the cottages. The appeal was allowed.

Friday 18th April

1978

It would cost nearly £300,000 for Cambridge United to move to the Cambridge City
club’s ground in Milton Road – and the facilities would be no better than those at
the Abbey Stadium. The suggestion had been made repeatedly over the years by
supporters of both clubs and has come to a head again with United’s plans for
expansion and a skateboard park. Directors know their plans to take over common
land would be an emotive issue, but it is a waste area and they would pipe a stream
which is usually nothing more than a foul ditch.

c.38 : football

1953

The Minster of Education opened a new primary school at Waterbeach. From the stage
of the comfortable and colourful school hall the Minister spoke of the need for new
schools and told members of the County Education Committee: “When you go on
building schools in this authority, please try to build them more quickly”. She
asked them to combine “push, driver and quickness” to the task of building them in
time.

1928

Newmarket council considered the question of standing places for motor ‘buses and
recommended the present arrangements in St Mary’s Square should remain in force for
the time being. This class of vehicle is likely to get more numerous on the road
and certain portions of the Fordham roadside should be defined as hackney carriage
stands for the setting down of passengers. It having also been suggested that St
Mary’s Square might afford a suitable site for a motor-park, but having regard to
certain manorial rights existing there, it was resolved that the solicitors
representing the Lord of the Manor be invited to attend the next meeting.

1903

All the arguments in favour of converting Cambridge into a County Borough having
failed some councillors have threatened to petition for an extension to the town’s
boundaries so as to include not only Chesterton but Newnham Croft and St John’s,
Cherry Hinton as well. To silence opposition they have threatened that all children
from these districts attending schools in Cambridge will have to be turned out to
seek education under their own authority. This has confirmed the opponents in their
opposition and alienated the sympathies of supporters. Fortunately nobody is likely
to be frightened by such pusillanimous threats.

c.35.7

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 21st April

1978

A recent review of the retail grocery trade reported a drop in the number of food
shops in general – with the exception of freezer centres, which were on the
increase. East Anglia came out above average with 43.1 per cent of homes owning a
freezer. In a rural region such as this a freezer represents a saving on frequent
trips to the distant shops as well as storage for gluts of home-grown vegetables.
Cambridge has seen a growth in the number of specialist centres devoted to the sale
of freezers and the frozen foodstuffs to fill them. They must be the most boring
shops in existence.

1953

With the advent of nationalisation it was found there were 157 villages without
electricity in the Cambridgeshire area and now some 71 have been supplied. Work
will soon commence on an extension of the 132,000-volt grid supply from Little
Barford to Fulbourn. In addition to village development, electricity has been taken
to 1,340 farms and isolated premises.

1928

A Suffolk teacher said that when she first went to the school she had a great deal
of trouble from a dozen big boys of 14. They overturned desks, tied up the
schoolroom doors on the inside and broke nearly every window. This annoyed her and
she talked it out with them. They said they wanted a man teacher who could thrash
them. The mistress in the next village thrashed her boys and they were taunted
because their mistress did not thrash them. “I fetched the thickest luggage strap I
could find and got somebody to try it out on me first”, she said. “Then the boys
came up and each one had the strap eight times on each hand. Every big boy had to
have the strap because the others wanted him to know what it was like. There were
no further tricks”.

1903

A serious fire occurred at the village of Barton by which almost the whole of the
Manor Farm, with the exception of the house, was razed to the ground. It is
supposed the drum of a traction engine after working for a considerable time, got
very hot and some corn which was standing near by caught alight. A cart with horse
attached was close by and the horse was taken out only just in time, being slightly
singed. The cart was consumed by the flames. The men worked assiduously with
buckets and water but their efforts were without avail and soon all the farm
buildings were blazing.

Tuesday 22nd April

1978

Hildersham parish church has been the target for thieves for the second time in
five months. Church officials unlocked the vestry and walked into chaos. Church
documents and stationery had been scattered around the room. But the only item
missing was the Victorian desk in which all the church papers had been kept. Last
December two valuable 600-year-old wooden effigies were stolen when the church was
forced into, but this time there was no damage. Earlier this week thieves walked
out of Linton church in full view of three parishioners carrying three antique
chairs

1958

A gleaming new R.S.P.C.A. clinic in Great Eastern Street was opened at a simple
ceremony, a memorial to Sir Arthur Eddington. Dr Rattray traced the history of the
clinic from its beginnings in a small house in Covent Garden to the adequate and
modern building being opened where hurt and ill animals will be treated with the
latest equipment. Last year 2,248 animals were treated by the Cambridge branch but
after returning from doing splendid work in the East Coast flood areas Inspector
Bartlett had developed pleurisy. The Great Yarmouth branch wrote that his work was
wonderful.

c.19

1928

I enjoyed a couple of rounds on the Cambridge putting green on Jesus Green and
found quite a lot of patrons there. There are some folk who think that putting is
only a temporary craze and will not enjoy continuing prosperity in the same way
that tennis and bowls do, but a single tennis court takes ten years to pay for
itself while the first putting green paid for itself within the first year. The
committee has received a petition for a similar putting green on the Lammas Land,
but they are a little timid about having a second one prepared until they see
whether the success achieved last year is repeated. The rockery being constructed
at the entrance to Lammas Land is being made from pieces of old and disused cattle
troughs from Midsummer Common

c.38 : golf

1903

At a meeting held at the Horse and Groom Hotel, Cambridge, it was resolved to form
a new cycling club to be named the “Belmont Cycling and Motoring Club”. Mr
Lawrence, of the Belmont Cycle Works, who is the founder of the club promised
members a very substantial reduction on all goods and repairs at the Works and also
offered a 10-guinea challenge cup to be competed for yearly. The club promises to
become very popular

c.26.485
Wednesday 23rd April

1978

The “Cambridge Students’ Prospectus” aims to give the student view in parallel with
information sent out officially to people applying for places. It says “King’s
College social life centres around a large, rather squalid bar where undergraduates
and the friendlier fellows gather at lunchtime. The college is as cliquey as any
other institution but tolerant. It is probably the happiest college with quite a
lot of sex, drugs and rock-and-roll”. But the Senior Tutor said he thought the
remark was ‘an unfortunate one which might better have been left out’ and had
spoken to the publishers.

c.36.9

1953

A Fiat crawler tractor has been adapted to pull a Fowler eleven-tine cultivator at
the NIAB experimental farm at Lolworth. With this implement 85 acres of Kimeridge
and Ampthill clay were cultivated to a depth of 14 inches. The cultivator was
originally designed for cable operation between two steam ploughing engines and was
adapted for use with a crawler under the supervision of Mr F.H. Spieer, bailiff of
the farm

1928

One of a block of five cottages at Saxon Street caught fire. The fire originated in
the thatched roof of two cottages occupied by Alfred Foreman and his family of five
persons. The adjacent cottages were occupied by Mr Elliott and family of four, Mr
Edwards and family of two and Mr Allard and family of four. The Newmarket District
Fire Brigade was called out and in spite of the difficulty of the time – all the
firemen were at dinner – and the difficulty in getting a motor to take the engine,
the response was commendably prompt. In spite of the high wind they were able to
save entirely two of the cottages but the others were completely burnt out. Shortly
before the fire a traction engine passed along the road & a spark from this may
have caused the fire.

1903

P.C. Symonds said he heard dancing from an upper room of the Hopbine public house,
Fair Street, Cambridge and found six couples dancing to music supplied by a harp
and concertina. Charles Huntlea said he went to the Hopbine with his brother of
their own free will to play music either for the customers to listen to or to
accompany dancing if anyone indulged in it. Their remuneration depended on the
generosity of the customers, the landlady had never given them anything and he had
to pay for his drink. She had a licence for music, but not dancing and was fined
10s.

Thursday 24th April

1978

An arsonist terrorising two Essex villages has been foiled in his seventh attempt
to set a home alight. The man escaped across fields at Hempstead in the early hours
after stuffing straw under the eaves of a house. This was the fifth time an arson
incident had coincided with a full or new moon and Saffron Walden police are not
discounting the theory that the firebug is moon-mad. Six thatched houses in
Hempstead and Great Samford have been badly damaged or destroyed since the arsonist
first struck last August.
1953

Does anybody want the façade of the Old Shire Hall, which is being demolished? The
County Council has asked the City Council of they would like it, but the reply is
‘No, thank you’. It will be interesting so see if the County offers it elsewhere.
Erection of new street lighting on the main roads is proceeding apace and is to be
extended to Queen’s Road, better known as ‘The Backs’. This new lighting should add
to the attractiveness of this famous beauty spot.

1928

A deputation of seven men from Isleham walked over to the meeting of Newmarket
Guardians to ask the Board for work. Five are married men with families and four in
receipt of out-relief. Mr Samuel Moore said he had heard of certain parties
obtaining relief when they had £60 in the house. Some men left regular jobs to get
a shilling more and then when the new job came to an end they were out of work. A
land worker who had a good job should stick to it. This was the time of year when
men were wanted on the land. The men said they had tried everywhere to get work.

1903

The weather at Hunstanton has now changed and the stormy winds of the Easter
Holiday given place to something more like spring. Among the many Cambridge people
spending the Vacation at Hunstanton were the Master of Trinity and the Master of
Caius. Visitors at the Globe Hotel were Mr & Mrs E.H. Parker and family from
Cambridge, Dr Atkin and Dr Wilders from Holbeach, Rev T.H. Orpen of Selwyn, Miss
E.M. Robinson and Rev Robinson, Grantham and the Rev and Mrs Gee, Cambridge.

Friday 25th April

1978

Landbeach village sign was unveiled by the oldest and youngest inhabitants, Mr
Horace Bull, aged 101, and Mrs Sarah Wilson aged 91, and babies John Abrahams aged
three months and Gemma Horlock aged only 10 days. The sign is a combination of
several prize-winning ideas submitted by villagers and includes a capsule buried in
the stone plinth which will, when opened, reveal some interesting facts to a new
generation about the clothes we wear, the wages we earn and what the Queen’s Silver
Jubilee was all about.

1953

In February 1920 Dr Glover was on duty as Proctor outside the Union, waiting for
undergraduates offending against University regulations when one of the bulldogs,
Lavis, stopped the Duke of York, later King George VI, who was seen smoking in
academic dress. The price’s equerry dashed over and said he could not have it, but
Glover insisted. Next day he sent Lavis round with the usual fine notice when he
met the Prince who gave him a drink. Some years later the King recalled the
incident and referred to the cigarette as the most expensive one he ever smoked!

c.02

1928
At the diamond jubilee celebrations of the Cambridge Co-operative Society the
Chairman, Mr G.J. Golding, said he wondered what the people concerned with the
little business in City Road, Cambridge, sixty years ago would think of the Society
today with annual sales of £190,000, a membership of 16,000, 20 branches and 370
employees. Half the population of Great Britain, directly or indirectly, was now
within the Co-operative movement

c.27.2

1903

Chesterton RDC heard that Cottenham had got a full supply of water. They were
obliged to supplement the supply with the old water cart. It seemed bad they should
be paying both the water company and the man who owned the cart. The Clerk said
that he wrote to the man and told him to discontinue but was informed that he had a
contract for 12 months, and would expect the money, so he might as well use the
cart. The contract was only up to the time when a proper water supply was
obtainable but the new pipes had discoloured the water and it was not quite fit for
drinking purposes. The Inspector of Nuisances (Mr Bunnett) was authorised to obtain
a sample of water for analysis.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 28th April

1978

The Post Office has been criticised over the state of a large Georgian house in the
heart of Saffron Walden’s conservation area. The 30-room Hill House in the High
Street is a listed building and former town post office. It is coming increasingly
under attack from vandals since it was abandoned four years ago. The District
Council would like it restored and converted into flats and offices. The three-
storey building once housed a famous family called Gibson who founded a bank in the
town.

1953

Cambridge council approved building licences to Mr E. Maloney for five shops,

twelve flats and a garage at the junction of Perne Road and Radegund Road, at a
total cost not exceeding £29,300 & to the Norwich Union Insurance Societies for a
block of 20 flats at Pinehurst, Grange Road. A tender is being negotiated for
building 24 three-storey concrete flats on land fronting High Street, Cherry Hinton
and 72 three-storey flats overlooking the Coleridge Road recreation ground. The
names of Nightingale Avenue, Almoners Avenue and Kinnaird Way have been suggested
for streets on the Netherhall Estate

1928

Members of the Cambridge Horse Club spent a jolly time at their annual dinner. It
was formed 35 years ago when there were a great number of hansom cabs and horses
and flys in Cambridge and if a man lost a horse he went round from house to house
and collected. Some people thought that was rather objectionable and a man named
William Wallis conceived the idea of a club for people who owned horses. It only
cost 1d a day to join and they still had 50 members; when they considered the
increase in motor traffic it was feather in their cap to know they stood safe
financially. The Chief Constable said Cambridge was losing horses very rapidly but
he hoped they would not all disappear.
c.19

1903

Tom Barton, the world’s champion log roller provided entertainment for several
thousands on the banks of the Cam. He made a journey from the University boathouse,
through Jesus Lock to Strange’s boathouse on a cylinder composed of Bovril tins
soldered together, nine feet long and one foot in diameter, without so much as
wetting his feet. A chair was passed to him, then a light table and placed thereon
a large bottle supposed to contain Bovril. It looked so easy that the challenge to
any person to stand on the cylinder for two minutes and win £5 was irresistible. A
man assayed the feat but did not remain for two seconds and was precipitated into
the water.

c.46.5

Tuesday 29th April

1978

The restoration fund for Yelling parish church, which was badly damaged by freak
storms in January, has reached £1,000. Amongst the donations is £100 given by
Yelling Baptist Church; the Rector, Rev Mark Bishops, said: “It is unusual for
another church of a different denomination to contribute, but we get on well and
they obviously felt our need was great”. He is awaiting an architect’s report on
the extent of the damage. Part of the 15th century east window and wall were
destroyed and have been replaced with a temporary covering, resulting in little
interruption of services.

1953

On May 2nd the W.V.S. Anglo-American Service Club on Castle Hill, Cambridge, will
be one year old. Activities include two dances a week; there are now 125 lady
members who serve as dance hostesses and a waiting list has been opened for further
applicants. Tours are arranged for all the American bases and there is a monthly
party for convalescent patients from Wimpole Park Hospital and occasional teas for
parties from Ely R.A.F. Hospital.

c.45.8

1928

A furnishing establishment and four other shops situated on the corner of Darthill
and Dartford Roads in the centre of March were burnt to the ground. They were Mr
H.S. Greenhall’s furniture shop, a millinery shop of Madame Furban’s, the Cambridge
modiste, a cleaner’s shop of Mr Layton, Mr Fletcher’s hairdressing saloon and a
dyer’s establishment. Most of the structure was of wood and the flames quickly
spread. The conflagration illuminated the whole town and the work of the fire
brigade was watched by crowds of people rudely awakened from their sleep. Buildings
at the back of the shops had been pulled down as the erection of a music hall on
the site is in contemplation.

1903

The landlord of the Boot Inn, Histon, was summoned for allowing gaming on his
premises. PC Plowman said the billiard room door was closed and he heard rattle of
money. There were 18 men in the room and they were playing halfpenny pool.
Defendant said: “I never saw this game before and if I have done wrong I will bury
the balls. I did not know that pool was wrong, as we always played it at
Cottenham”. Pool was played with different balls and so much a ball was paid for
the use of the table. There was no evidence they were playing for money. The case
was dismissed.

Wednesday 30th April

1978

Eerie midnight howling is haunting the Caxton Gibbet Hotel – but the spine-chilling
sounds are very real. They come from a homeless dog which has been roaming the
district for about four years, ever since it was abandoned near the Gibbet Hotel.
The elusive creature, a greyhound, has been christened Queenie. “It comes here most
nights at about 12.30 and howls away at the front of the pub”, said Mrs Mavis
Spencer, the landlady. “I leave food for it each night and we turn out the lights
and watch as it grabs a piece, runs off to eat it, then comes back for more”

1953

An Arrington man applied for permission to allow his sitting room to be used as a
café. Next door there was a transport café but private motorists seldom used it. He
had seen them draw up at the café and then drive on without entering. He would pull
down a garage at the side of the house to provide a suitable approach and convert
his orchard into a car park for 50 cars. The room would accommodate 20 people with
any overflow in the garden. There were no adequate sanitary arrangements but he
would install a septic tank. But there was already a general café, a hotel in
Arrington where meals were served and ‘Daleview’ tea rooms 200 yards away

1928

There is one evening in the year which the inhabitants of the little village of
Wicken always anticipate with much pleasure. This is the night when Mr Reg Alsop
recruits his annual concert party. Long before it was due to begin the hall was
well filled and those who could not find seats stood just outside the entrance
whilst others had a cheap evening and listened from outside. Mr Alsop had again
done his native village well, a fact they were not slow to appreciate. He was in
his usual good form and sang ‘Shopping’ and ‘The Good Little Boy’

1903

Interest in the sensation known as the Moat Farm Mystery received a sudden stimulus
by the announcement that the body of a woman, fully dressed, had been unearthed on
the farm premises and identified as that of the missing woman. For the past two
months it has been our duty to record the progress of the search which the police
had been carrying out with such untiring diligence. Day after day they had pursued
their labours, almost without remittance, and until yesterday they had been
unrewarded by anything in the shape of human remains. It was decided to remove the
mud from the moat and a lady’s shoe was discovered containing a portion of a human
foot.

Thursday 1st May

1978

Nearly 400 Protestants and Roman Catholics joined together at Haslingfield to

revive a pilgrimage thought to be more than 500 years old. Led by the vicar and the
Sawston Roman Catholic priest the pilgrimage wound their way up Chapel Hill to the
site of a medieval shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Whitehill. In the Middle Ages it
was used by pilgrims en route to Walsingham and brought much trade to the village,
“enriching the priest and benefiting the inhabitants”. It disappeared without trace
about 1541. The modern pilgrims continued to Harlton parish church, pausing at
intervals for hymn singing and Bible readings.

1953

While on a football visit to Cambridge three Oxford undergraduates took a 4ft by

2ft sign valued at £50 from outside the shop of a Cambridge outfitter, intending to
take it back to Oxford as a souvenir. Two girls saw a crowd outside Messrs Johnson
& Sons shop in Sidney Street. A man was bending down and another balancing on his
back was unhooking the sign. The police were informed and Sgt Ellison of the
Bedfordshire Constabulary, after receiving a telephone message from Cambridge,
stopped the undergraduates’ coach outside Bedford and retrieved the sign.

1928

The new Road Transport Lighting Act calls upon users of motor cars or cycles to see
that proper lamps are provided – at least two white lights in front and one red at
the rear for cars and one each for cycles. After rear lights for cycles we must
expect them soon for pedestrians, especially on country roads. Already there is a
safety walking belt on the market with reflectors at the front and back.
Pedestrians will protest, as the cyclists have done, but it will be of no avail.
Motor traffic is increasing, road dangers are increasing and ‘Safety First’ is the
order of the day

1903

Mr Askham applied for a theatrical licence for the Auckland Road Circus, Cambridge.
A dramatic performance was instructive to the working classes and tended to keep
them out of public houses. But those who were labouring in connection with the
various religious organisations felt strongly it would be injurious to the morals
of the people. As soon as the audience came out they were ‘on the Common in the
dark’. A poster for one play contained the figure of a young lady almost in a state
of nudity and if a man took his wife or daughter in the vicinity of it the ladies
would hardly know where to put their heads.

c.76

Friday 2nd May

1978

A novel method of treating rheumatoid arthritis is being developed at the

Strangeways Laboratory in Cambridge and offers hope for millions of sufferers of
the disease. The treatment, which is still being assessed clinically, involves
using hydrocortisone – which was hailed as a wonder drug when first used 30 years
ago, but then fell out of favour because of undesirable side-effects. Now
scientists put minute amounts into tiny droplets of natural fat which are injected
directly into the joint affected.

1953

Thirteen attractive young ladies paraded before judges at the Rex Ballroom,
Cambridge for the title of ‘Miss Cambridgeshire’. Dressed in gold net over taffeta
with black Miss Eileen Gatwood of Histon was proclaimed the winner. She has already
gained the titles of ‘Miss Pampisford’ and ‘Miss Harston’. Second was Mrs Maureen
Oliver who was ‘Miss Manchester 1952’ and third Miss Janet Waller who has been
‘Miss Hunstanton’. The winner was presented with a three-guinea cheque and the
runners up with boxes of chocolates by the promoter, Mr Billy Pearce.

1928

A case of great importance to the motoring public was heard at Bottisham. The
publican of the Prince Albert, Quy was summoned for taking two gallons of motor
spirit petrol from a Dominion pump, putting it in a Shell can and selling it as
Shell. He had a pump outside his house of Dominion spirit which was inferior to
Shell; it was 1s a gallon and Shell 1s 2½d. [ONE SHILLING AND TWOPENCE HALFPENNY].
A Shell employee said he asked for a two-gallon can of Shell and took it to
Newmarket police station where he asked it to be sealed. But they did not want to
take sides in the matter. It was analysed and found not to be Shell. Defendant said
his daughter had sold the petrol and did not know the difference between the
various types of spirit.

1903

Soham House Estate, situated in one of the best positions in Newmarket was offered
for sale by auction. The mansion is fitted throughout with every modern convenience
and luxury and contains a billiard room, nine bed and dressing rooms, three bath
rooms, an extensive suite of domestic & culinary offices, a racquet court and a
suite of bachelor’s quarters. The estate covers an area of ten acres and is one of
the best show places of the town. The cost was stated at considerably over £30,000.
Neither this, nor two other properties in The Avenue were sold.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 5th May

1978

A plan to sell off part of the playing fields at Bassingbourn Village College is
being considered by Cambridgeshire County Council as part of its programme to raise
cash. Development land has been fetching up to £40,000 an acre and all their land
is being looked at to find any that can be sold with planning permission. But the
scheme is likely to run into heavy opposition from villagers. The site is also used
by the primary school and by young footballers who cannot use the recreation ground
because of a restrictive covenant banning Sunday games. A similar scheme to sell
land at Bottisham Village College is also being opposed

1953

Cambridge councillors approved a scheme for replacing gas lamps with sodium
lighting along ‘The Backs’. Ald Hickson wanted assurance this would not be a
prelude to Queen’s Road becoming a trunk road. It was becoming more frequently
used. But the beauty was only apparent during daytime and at night it was only a
blur of trees. The same arguments were probably put forward when the present gas
standards were installed and in ten year’s time the university would say what a lot
of fools they were to oppose the scheme

c.29.8

1928
The Ouse Drainage Board heard that great damage was done to the banks of the rivers
during the January floods and some £15,000 will be necessary to put them in the
state they were previously. The Ministry should be induced to make some
contribution to the cost. The flood, which was accompanied by a strong gale,
damaged 47 miles of the banks of the main rivers and 16 miles of the smaller rivers
and lodes. Mr Tebbutt said that during his knowledge of the river for 50 years only
on three occasions did he remember as much flooding as on the last occasion. It was
exceptional.

c.29
1903

The University Arms Property, Sawston, consisting of the old licensed beerhouse,
the University Arms, 32 cottages and the cricket ground were offered for sale by
auction. The pub sold for £775, one block of four cottages facing the main road was
sold at £450 and four in Occupation Road realised £250. The cricket ground was
purchased by Mr Hudson for £280. The remaining 20 cottages were withdrawn. The
fully licensed inn, The King’s Head, and the old beerhouse now named the Golden
Fleece in Bridge Street were offered and withdrawn as were the Cock and the Bell at
Feltwell and The Ferry Boat at Hockwold-cum-Wilton. Six freehold cottages at
Fulbourn were sold to Mr Jacobs for £250

Tuesday 6th May

1978

Cambridge Magistrates may have acted outside their powers in seeking to license
college bars. Cambridge colleges have operated student bars in the past, arguing
that the Vice Chancellor has the right to issue licences within the university to
authorise the sale of all alcoholic liquors, including wine. But while the right to
authorise wine-selling has not been challenged, the sale of beer has come under
official scrutiny. At King’s College students fear the grant of a licence would
affect many social events; it would become a criminal offence for a student to be
drunk at his college bar and the police would have the right to enter without
warrant or invitation.

c.27.4

1953

“I think it is a lot of hooey”, said Coun Cox when the Cherry Hinton firing range
was discussed. He thought complaints of the amount of vibration from a six-pounder
gun – not much larger than an anti-tank rifle – which was fired at the range, were
“stupid and fantastic”. But Coun Finbow said that recently the whole of the ceiling
in one of his bedrooms collapsed because of the vibration. One neighbourhood should
not be subject to range firing morning, noon and night. The council approved the
use of the site by the Ministry of Supply for a period of three years

c.45.8

1928

Coun Edwards called attention to the quality of certain scavenging brooms and said
one was worn down in eight hours. Coun Kenney: “I think the council will be pleased
to know that our roadmen work so hard”. (Laughter). The brooms were ‘simply awful’
and not suitable for the job. But the best broom had been selected, it was not the
cheapest, costing 21s. 6d. per dozen. Each broom lasted 14 days and it was an
exceptional circumstance it one went wrong in eight hours.
1903

A stormy meeting of Linton Guardians told the chaplain to conduct services in such
a way they would not be extreme and hurt the sensibilities of any member of the
Board. He should remove the candlesticks from the altar and take them out of the
Workhouse chapel. Mr Wright asked what they meant to do with the candlesticks. He
was sure the Salvation Army would not want them and they would not have them at the
chapel. Mr Potter proposed the candlesticks be allowed to remain but that the
candles be not lighted. A committee will meet the chaplain to see if a friendly
arrangement could not be arrived at.

Wednesday 7th May

1978

The Precinct is the latest thing in road sweepers manufactured by Melford

Engineering in a very unobtrusive long low building in the fens near Sutton.
Looking rather like an overgrown Dalek they are coming out of the factory in
increasing numbers and beginning to appear on the roads in Germany and even Saudi
Arabia. Just about all the little sweeper is made at Sutton. It has power steering,
power brakes, a heater and the ability to travel sideways at the nose when
required. Beer tins, half bricks, dust, plastic bags – everything is sucked up into
the innards of the little vehicle.

1953

Sir –Some of the explosions from the six-pounder gun at Cherry Hinton firing range
did crack walls, move brickwork, bring down plaster, crack windows and scare
children, adults and animals. Now two schools are to be built almost on the
doorstep and if we have similar explosions there will be damage done. When doors
rattle, knockers chatter, cracks appear and are repaired, only for the plaster to
be shaken out again we are at liberty to be concerned. – J.S. Read

c.45.8

1928

Cambridge Town Council granted licences to Messrs Brown Bros for a new Lancia
saloon motor coach and the Westminster Coaching Services for three additional
coaches. Coun. Doggett asked if the vehicles were fitted with pneumatic tyres and
if they would not licence any with solid tyres from the point of view of wear and
tear of the roads and the comfort of travellers. It was only a matter of time
before solid tyred vehicles would be barred from using the roads at all. There was
a nuisance with regard to bus tickets being thrown down in the roads and the Ortona
Motor Bus Co are to be asked to provide receptacles for bus tickets on the buses
plying in Cambridge.

c.26.46

1903

The work of rebuilding St Andrew’s Street Baptist Chapel, Cambridge, has reached an
important stage with the ceremony of laying the foundation stone. The travelling
crane upon the elevated railroad around the site was stationary, the workmen had
turned their attention to the erection of a platform to accommodate the spectators.
An important factor was the bottle placed under the stone which may in some remote
age meet the gaze of an explorer yet unborn, the contents being a plan of the
church, a programme of the day’s ceremony and a copy of the CDN.

c.83
Thursday 8th May

1978

The 150-strong Jersey dairy herd on Lord Walston’s Thriplow estate, one of
Cambridgeshire’s oldest and best known herds, fetched more than £27,000 when it
went under the hammer. It was started in 1910 but time and economics have caught up
with it and the sale marked the end of an era as they fell into line with the
rapidly declining number of milking herds in the county. Two of the stockmen,
George Fuller and Doug Andrews, said few younger people wanted the responsibility
every day of the week. Buyers came from as far away as Devon and Scotland; the
highest price paid for a cow was nearly £230 and a bull made £441

1953

For the past 27 years one of the very active of the militant suffragettes has been
living quietly at Castle Camps and has written a book about her experiences in
those bygone days called ‘Laugh a defiance’. Miss Mary Richardson slashed the
famous Rokeby Venus in the National Gallery as a protest against the further
imprisonment of their leader Mrs Pankhurst, planted a bomb which practically
demolished a new railway station at Birmingham and set fire to a big, uninhabited
country house. She served many sentences in Holloway. Yet when she came to settle
at Castle Camps & decided to keep ducks ‘to provide birds for the tables of the
Cambridge colleges’, her heart failed her when it came to killing them. In the end
there were over three hundred birds.

1928

Cambridge was visited by a thunderstorm characterised by some very heavy peals of

thunder and very sharp flashes of lightning. The chimney of a house at 54 St
Barnabas Road was struck. Mr Easton, a Mill Road cycle agent, said his family had
not left the back bedroom more than two minutes when they were startled by a
terrific explosion. The electric light failed and they found that a bedroom
fireplace had been blown out into the room and lay smothered with dust and soot on
the floor.

1903
A sale of work was held to raise funds for the furnishing of a ‘Cats Home’ in Mr
Banham’s yard, Cambridge. Persons going away from home can have their cats taken
care of. The fee is not a large one. There will be room for an odd stray, provided
it is a healthy cat; if not it will be mercifully destroyed.

c.19

Friday 9th May

1978

Fowlmere parish council has protested that their village has become a dumping
ground for bad council house tenants. The District Council’s policy is to move
tenants who refuse to pay rent or create a nuisance into sub-standard council homes
and say it is unfortunate that such property exists at Fowlmere. This has been
going on since the War when problem cases were housed in old forces huts in the
village. They have 16 tenants who owe £4,000 in rent between them. But the parish
want the houses converted into warden-controlled old people’s homes

1953

The Post Office Television Detector van is commencing a tour of the Cambridge
district as part of an intensive ‘comb’ to find illicit television receivers. At
the moment there are 8,750 television licences in the Cambridge area but it is
known there are still a large number of people who have bought sets but not taken
out licences. The equipment in the van is so sensitive that the position of the
houses containing working televisions can be pinpointed even when the van is moving
down a street. Portable equipment allows for detection of receivers in blocks of
flats.

1928

Less than 20 years ago I was doing journalistic work in a Hobson Street office. In
those days there was no County Hall opposite, nor talk of one. It was begun only 15
years ago and if anyone had been asked how long it would remain the County Council
headquarters he might have answered ‘A hundred years at least’. But so great has
been the extra work thrown on the Council that already the building has been
outgrown and plans are now to be prepared for a new building on the Castle Hill
site. There are now 86 officials and ratepayers may ask if such an army of officers
are really necessary

c.35.1

1903

While excavating in Grange Road, Cambridge, some workmen who were digging a trench
for drainage purposes came across a skeleton of great age, but in a perfect state
of preservation. Behind the skull was a small vessel of yellow ware, with a handle.
Messrs Coulson and Lofts had the remains carefully uncovered. Other remains,
including a stone coffin and brooches have been found in the adjoining area and
confirm the date as late Roman. It is hoped the remains will be removed exactly as
found and placed in a glass case at the Archaeological Museum.

c.41

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 12th May

1978

A campaign has been launched to save the 23-pupil Madingley Primary School by
turning it into a co-operative. For 39 years the school has been run by the
headmistress and the only teacher, Mrs Gwen Ruddle, who retires in July. The County
Council thought that would be an appropriate time to close. But the parents say it
would kill off the heart of the village and do not like the idea of sending their
children to Coton school, 1½ miles away

1953
After Reach Fair was proclaimed with all the pageantry and ceremony which has
survived the years since medieval times the Mayor of Cambridge (Ald. S.T. Bull)
toured the stalls and sideshows. He invested three shillings at the coconut shy and
came away with two coconuts. At the rifle range he tested his skill as a marksman
and came away with a glass sugar basin, then went aboard the ‘Jollity Farm’
roundabout for two whirling trips. At the Mayor’s luncheon it is the tradition that
any newcomers to the ceremony, known as ‘colts’ and ‘fillies, have to pay a crown
or be imprisoned in the stocks. But Lady Bragg protested at being called a ‘filly’.

1928

There were three genuine cases of overcrowding at Horseheath. In one house with two
bedrooms there were six children and three adults; in another with three bedrooms
there were eight adults and three children, while in a third there were four adults
and five children. Other houses were in a dilapidated condition.

1903

A raid on motor cars was made on the Royston Road. P.S. Gilbey, stationed at
Sawston, said he and P.C. Davies measured a mile on the road, compared watches and
set them exactly at the same time. At 3.49 a car passed and went towards Royston.
He saw P.C. Davies come out to stop the car from beside a straw stack. The time was
just under three minutes. Both policemen were in plain clothes; if they had been in
uniform people would not go at such an excessive speed. The magistrates were not
without sympathy for the motorist but there was proof that the limit of 12 miles
per hour had been exceeded. They imposed the smallest possible fine of 5s.

Tuesday 13th May

1978

Haddenham Farmland Museum began with a modest box full of bric-a-brac collected by
13-year-old Craig Delanoy but has inspired support from the most unlikely of
sources. There’s never any difficulty in persuading the village youngsters to do
their bit and indeed the whole village of Haddenham seems to take pride in what the
museum has achieved since it opened in 1969 and more than £2,000 has been raised
for charities. But an illustrious Cambridgeshire county councillor from that centre
of culture, Peterborough, has condemned it as a glorified load of junk

1953

The new branch church of St Andrew’s Street Baptist Church built in Dudley Road,
New Barnwell for the people living on the new housing estates was opened on
Saturday. The church was filled to capacity. It took about a year to build & seats
a congregation of 150 in the main hall; there is a junior room for Sunday School
meetings large enough to accommodate 100 children, and a primary room for the
under-eights.

c.83

1928

Cambridge Guardians considered allowing the inmates of the Institution to go out on

Sunday afternoons. The patients were bolted and barred in the institution for the
whole of the week, with the exception of about four hours. During the fine summer
afternoons they would be better by being allowed out and enjoy the sunshine. The
service in the morning was very nice and very bright and there were few on the
Board who attended places of worship twice on Sunday. But the Rev. Batley said it
was perfectly disgraceful. The decision was deferred.

1903

The desirability of Cambridgeshire as a residential district is not sufficiently

appreciated. Our county burden is second only in point of lightness to that of the
Isle of Ely which should appeal to the heavily-burdened ratepayers. Now Saffron
Walden are making application to be transferred from the county of Essex to Cambs.
Being at the fag-end of London suburban counties have the pleasure of paying for
the extravagances of the wealthy suburban residents without enjoying any of their
advantages.

Wednesday 14th May

1978

Cambridge’s place in the forefront of test-tube life took another step forward when
mice that were put into frozen suspended animation more than five years ago at the
Physiological Laboratory were running around in a cage. They were frozen in liquid
nitrogen as three-day embryos, then thawed and implanted into a female mouse.
Frozen embryo banks are likely to become an increasingly important feature of
future animal husbandry and one day embryos of whole herds of cattle may be shipped
across the world in frozen containers, by-passing disease controls and ensuring
preservation of rare breeds.

c.36.9

1953

The television broadcast of the Coronation ceremony will be shown to some 250
people on big screen projectors in Cambridge Guildhall. The projectors are
specialised television receivers and produce a picture four feet wide. The picture
quality is remarkable but much depends on the signal strength and the co-operation
of motorists and other persons who cause T/V electrical interference is invited in
keeping away from the vicinity of the Guildhall on Coronation morning. Seats will
be allocated to pensioners, wounded ex-Servicemen and similar deserving cases.

c.27.85

1928

The Headmaster’s house at the Leys School had a narrow escape during a storm when
an elm tree standing about 40 feet from the house was struck by lightning. Although
there is a large cedar tree between the house and the elm, the explosion was so
severe that 13 windows were broken. The tree appears to have escaped much damage as
it is still standing, through good-sized pieces of bark have been stripped off two
sides. Queens’ College chapel was also struck and the top of the small cross of the
west end was knocked off.

1903

An exhibition of gas stoves for cooking and heating purposes, the products of the
Richmond Gas Stove and Meter Company, was opened in Cambridge. It gives those who
have not yet taken advantage of the modern substitute for an ordinary fire the
opportunity of discovering how gas is far superior in the point of economy, comfort
and cleanliness. The stoves can be hired at small rentals from the Cambridge Gas
Company
Thursday 15th May

1978

The Sunday Times devoted many pages to portraits of such people as Burgess and
Maclean photographed during their undergraduate days in a “relaxed” style then very
usual. They were taken by the famous Cambridge photographers, Ramsey and Muspratt
in their studios at Post Office Terrace. The article also mentioned the 50,000-odd
negatives left behind there by generations of photographic firms, but there could
be even more. In a separate building at the back are cupboards, not opened for at
least 70 years, that are absolutely stuffed with glass negatives. But now a
selection of them have been printed by the Cambridgeshire Collection

c.65.5

1953

Dr A.L. Peck lectured to Cambridge Antiquarian Society on old street lamps of

Cambridge, using a collection of lantern slides to illustrate many of the
distinctive types of lamp standard, most of which can be date back to 1840 and can
still be seen in the streets. They are some of the finest and most varied to be
found in any part of the country and merit preservation as valuable examples of the
iron founder’s work. The most remarkable is one in New Street which for over 50
years stood in front of the Pitt Press in Trumpington Street

1928

The work of the Cambridge Birth Control Clinic was explained to Cambridge Women’s
Welfare Association. The foremost difficulty was the absence of a contraceptive
method so simple and effective as to meet the needs of the over-tired, feckless,
under-housed, unintelligent or mentally-deficient woman. But although they should
do something to enable people to have just the children they could manage, their
methods, generally called ‘birth control’, were disgusting and filthy. There was
danger in the free use of contraceptive methods by unmarried young people. They
might be getting to the morals of the poultry yard.

c.21.1 # WOMEN

1903

At Cambridge police court a married woman was charged with having stolen a piece of
pork, value 1s.2d. from Joseph Butler, a butcher of Mill Street. He said he heard
the shop bell ring and noticed the pork was missing from the counter. He found it
underneath her cloak. The magistrates had to convict, but in consideration of the
fact that the prisoner had ten children she would be bound over.

Friday 16th May

1978

To raise £5,000 in five months from 500 people was the Rector of Fen Ditton’s
ambitious aim – and now he has done it. The project will not only provide a central
meeting place for the parish but has also kindled a community spirit. Every night
and weekend under the floodlights and in all sorts of weather people have been
working voluntarily on the hall, said the Rev Lawrence Marsh. Two seven-year-olds
raised £26 with a disco for the under 12-year-olds and a sponsored knit-in raised
more than £900

1953

An eager group of schoolboys armed with autograph albums were among the first to
welcome the Australian cricketers when they arrived in Cambridge for their match
with the University. The youngsters crowded round Arthur Morris, who is captaining
the side because Lindsay Hassett is unfit, and then hurried on to Ray Lindwall,
young Ian Craig, Neil Harvey, Don Tallon and the others. The Australians signed
their names cheerfully; they are soft-spoken, unexcitable men, whose appearance and
manner off the field give no hint of the devastating ability which has already
humbled Yorkshire and Surrey.

1928

The Cambridge Social Hygiene Council discussed how to interest young men in the
development of the proper sex outlook. Their attendance at lectures and film
displays was poor and the majority were undergraduates who clearly came to hear and
learn, for their conduct was unexceptional. The meetings for women were attended by
about 200 each day, a good part of them adolescent middle-class girls and young
married woman, a type not often seen at such meetings.
WOMEN

1903

A section of noisy undergraduates at a performance of ‘Naughty Nancy’ at the New

Theatre behaved in an unruly manner. Remarks, many of them in bad taste, and
incessant shouting delayed the progress of the comedy and Mr Redfern, the Managing
Director appeared on the stage. For 20 years he had had the management and until
the last three or four such conduct was perfectly unheard of. He said he was sure
they would cease this ungentlemanly conduct but if they continued he would simply
drop the curtain and the performance would cease. Cries of ‘Good old Redfern’ were
heard at the conclusion of the protest. They speedily subsided and the performance
was concluded quietly.

c.76

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 19th May

1978

Newmarket shops have as much to offer as those in Cambridge and Bury St Edmunds.
The town’s greatest asset was extensive free and convenient parking. This was a
considerable attraction for shoppers who knew if they went to Cambridge they would
have to pay to park and might have to queue for a space. The future prosperity
depended on the new Waitrose supermarket; if this could bring in shoppers it would
benefit the other traders in general, even if one or two food stores were forced
out of business.

1953

A dress to be worn in Westminster Abbey on Coronation Day by a Cambridge resident

has been sold by Vogue’s of St Andrew’s Street. An afternoon dress of pure silk its
price was 65 guineas. “We are absolutely thrilled, it is a great honour”, said Mr
M. Harris, the proprietor. They have also sold three evening gowns to be worn at
Coronation balls in London connected with the Court. White is proving to be the
most popular choice this year for May Ball dresses; the off-the-shoulder style is
in demand and the average price is 15 guineas

1928

Undergraduates were packed like sardines in a tin at the Cambridge Police court
when King’s College and Trinity College were fined for employing male servants with
having in force licences as required. It was unthinkable that such bodies should
attempt to evade payment but they had received no reminder from the County Hall.
This was not an acceptable excuse: they were large and responsible bodies
accustomed to regularly employing a number of servants and should be more
scrupulous than ordinary citizens to see the duties were paid in proper time.

c.32.1

1903

Scarcely has one sensation abated in Saffron Walden than another mystery has come
to the surface in that now popular and much-talked-of town. In the small hours four
men were engaged emptying a cesspool and having secured a load they proceeded to
deposit it on the sewage farm; on the cart being emptied they noticed that
something solid rolled out. Upon examining it they found it to be the body of a
male child which may have been in the cesspool two or three weeks, as the body is
somewhat discoloured.

Tuesday 20th May

1978

Fast action and a screwdriver avoided civic embarrassment at Great St Mary’s

Church, Cambridge, when a door lock jammed only minutes before the mayor’s
procession arrived for the church’s 500th anniversary service. Verger Mr George
Clark and a sidesman, Mr Claude Maskell, removed the ancient lock just in time to
avoid halting the mayor and city councillors in the street outside. Representatives
of city and university with clergy of many denominations crowded into the church
for a unique thanksgiving service in which the church’s historical records were
brought to life by students and other readers.

1953

Cambridge shops report that many of the Coronation souvenirs now in such profusion
are selling quite well. The pottery mugs and beakers (from 1s.11d to 4s.) are again
proving one of the best sellers. Framed photographs and statuettes of the Queen are
proving popular, as are key rings with a tiny replica of the Coronation chair on
its chain. It is anticipated there will be a revival of interest in Coronation
souvenirs long after it is over. People will suddenly realise that a great
historical event has taken place and they have not got a memento of it so they will
rush to buy before it is too late.

1928

Scenes of unprecedented excitement marked the arrival of His Royal Highness, the
Prince of Wales at Royston. From an early hour the streets were packed with eager
and excited crowds, despite rain and hail falling heavily, and every house and shop
was gaily bedecked with flags. The guests’ reserved stand was packed to capacity
and the meadow behind was one mass of people. A roar of cheering went up as the
Prince arrived to open the new children’s ward at the Royston and District
Hospital. Later he travelled to Papworth Village Settlement and opened the new
Village Hall and Memorial Cottages

1903

Mr Percy Humphreys, formerly a regular player for Cambridge St Mary’s Football Club
is now the possessor of an international cap. Cambridge has a way of showing
appreciation of distinction attained in sport by complimentary dinners and it was
only fitting that following those to cricketers Ranji and Tom Hayward a similar
compliment should be paid to a townsman who has attained the highest honour in the
other great national game. He was known as ‘The Little Terror’ and was the subject
of hero worship by lads in Cambridge.

c.38 : football

Wednesday 21st May

1978

A historic bell that has been gathering dust for almost a quarter of a century has
started a feud between the two neighbouring churches of Leighton Bromswold and
Barham, who both claim it is theirs. It was originally at Woolley church and went
for storage when the church closed down. It lay unwanted and forgotten in a side
room at Leighton until the church council decided to sell it to boost church
repairs. From nearby Barham came a howl of protest followed by a demand that the
bell should be placed in their church where Woolley parishioners now worship. The
two church councils are deadlocked over the issue which may be thrashed out by an
ecclesiastical court.

1953

The Playhouse Cinema on Mill Road, Cambridge, celebrates its 40th anniversary as a
place of cinematic entertainment. It opened at Whitsun 1913 when there were two
shows per evening with a children’s matinee on Saturdays. Nowadays we are used to
newsreels which are distributed on a national basis but then their own cameraman
took the pictures for a newsreel of local interest, including the Cambridge Police
Sports and Juvenile Fishing Match. Music was supplied by the Playhouse’s own
orchestra under Musical Director Max Bennett

c.76.9

1928

The Vicar of Foxton has received remarkable letter from the Church Council
requesting him to resign and, from the pulpit on Sunday he made a statement in
reply. “The choir is at a standstill for the want of hymn books, the lead on the
roof needs to be replaced, the heating apparatus is out of order, the gates are
falling to pieces, the lamps are dangerous and a valuable old chest is falling to
pieces. We have no parish clerk, no one to ring the bells, the clock is unwound,
the churchyard a disgrace. When the Church Council have completed all these duties
it will be time for them to turn their thoughts to throwing stones at their vicar”.

1903

The permanent motor exhibition which is in process of formation is to supply a

universal automobile mart for all those persons interested commercially or
sportingly in the horseless vehicle. It is to be for motor cars what Tattersall’s
is for that now decadent animal, the horse. It will be at once a market, a bazaar
and an exchange where motors and component parts can be obtained and will prove an
undeniable boon to the automobilist.

Thursday 22nd May

1978

Fulbourn Hospital has announced a new deal to help ease their cash crisis. If
people came and said ‘If you take my old father we will come and help out with
meals and keeping the old people occupied’ it would free nurses for more specific
skill tasks. The help would be unpaid but the benefits would be the treatment made
available to the relative. The shortage of beds now means a large number of elderly
patients cannot be given the long-term hospital care they need. Fulbourn does have
empty beds, but not the staff needed to use them

1953

Histon’s new post office, gleaning in the spring sunshine, was officially opened by
the Head Postmaster of Cambridge (Mr D. MacGregor). The substantial brick building,
bright and commodious, replaces the wood and corrugated iron structure which
residents had visited in the centre of the village for many years. It is not a
Government scheme. It is entirely the project of the sub-postmaster, Mr Fred Brown,
who runs the Post Office in connection with a general stores.

1928

In the spring a motorist’s fancy turned to the thought of a new car and the
Cambridge public have the opportunity of inspecting the whole range produced by the
well-known Vauxhall firm. These are attractively displayed in the spacious showroom
of Messrs Herbert Robinson & Son, Regent Street. The staff has been augmented with
chauffeurs, salesmen, mechanics and service engineers under the charge of the
assistant car sales manager of Vauxhall Motors. The models on view include the
Princeton tourer, £475; Bedford saloon, £495 and Kimpton coach-built sports saloon,
£695

1903

Another prosecution for driving a motor car at excessive speed was brought before
magistrates. PC Connell said that on Easter Monday he was on duty near the 50 mile
stone on Newmarket Road when he saw a motor car occupied by three gentlemen being
driven at great speed. When the car passed he noticed the time, then mounted his
cycle and followed after the car to the next milestone near Worcester Lodge where
he conferred with PC Bugg and found the mile was completed in 110 seconds, which
worked out at the rate of 32½ [THIRTY-TWO AND A HALF] miles per hour. The driver
was fined £1.

Friday 23rd May

1978

Cambridge City Council has applied for St Paul’s school in Russell Street to be
listed as a protected historic building. Built in 1845 it is the earliest
elementary school in Cambridge and was designed by Ambrose Poynter, possibly the
only classical school building by him in England. For 10 years there have been
plans to build a brand new school on an adjoining site but now there are proposals
to remodel the old one to allow more classroom space.

1953

A Cambridge butcher’s Coronation sausages have caused a stir. Derek Traylen of

Newmarket Road was painting his shop front blue, with a white and red fascia when
his wife commented on the pleasing effect. “Pity we can’t apply this colour scheme
to the something else"” she said and Mr Traylen looked hard at the strings of
sausages. “Why not the sausages. We could dip the skins in vegetable dye and have a
special Coronation line”. He advertised them in the CDN and received a phone call
from a journalist in Glasgow. Then came other enquiries from Manchester, the ‘Daily
Mirror’ and ‘Empire News’ while the ‘Meat Traders Journal’ came out with a cartoon.
Customers were delighted, but somewhat apprehensive with regard to the blue
sausages.

1928

Newmarket is becoming a town of clubs and the publicans are becoming alarmed at
their multiplication. The new social club of the Beacon Lodge of Oddfellows will
make nine in the town – the Jockey Club (which is the most exclusive club in the
world may hardly be counted in this category) -–the Subscription Rooms, Masonic
Hall & Marlborough, Conservative & Foresters clubs. In addition are the Astley
Institute and Racing Lads’ Institute but at these no excisable drink is sold and
they are entirely for stable lads and stablemen.

1903

Cambridge councillors discussed plans for the erection of new premises for Laurie
and McConnal, Fitzroy Street. The bye-laws said there should be a certain amount of
air-space behind domestic buildings – house, office or shop - and these had no such
space. There was no doubt the plans were in contravention of the bye-laws, the
question was whether the Council would refuse them. If they were passed it would be
an illegal act. They should not alter the bye-laws to suit the convenience of any
class of people.

c.27.2

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 26th May

1978

A fairy tale has come true for eighty children at Fen Ditton primary school. Their
ancient record player is to be replaced with a brand new music centre despite none
of their entries being successful in the recent News contest. It wasn’t for lack of
trying. Every single child in the school, plus the teachers, had a go at winning
something they have wanted for years. Pye Telecommunications, sponsors of the
competitions were so touched by their enthusiasm they decided to contribute half
the cost of a new centre and the News has chipped in the other half. “Everyone is
thrilled and delighted about it”, said the headmaster, Mr A.M. Jones.

1953

People of the parish of Lode celebrated their church centenary with a service at
which the Bishop of Ely preached followed by a supper. Every seat was filled in the
little church, described as one of the most beautiful of the time. It was the work
of the Rev John Hailstone, vicar of Bottisham who instigated the building. Before
that the people of Lode had been some miles from their parish church

1928

Herbert Spalding, parish constable of Landbeach, said he went to Milton feast and
had a turn at a penny-in-the-slot machine. He started with 7d and got down to a
penny but then won 8d and finished with 3d profit. He found it better to let the
machine run and not press the controls. There were 15 automatic machines in the
booth and men, women, boys and girls were using them. Some players used the knobs
and some did not; it did not seem to make any difference. The games were chance and
not skill. A fine of 5s was imposed on the proprietor.

1903

The New Swiss Laundry, Cherry Hinton Road is the largest in Cambridge and one of
the most improved laundries of the day, having a glass roof so that the smallest
grain of dust can be detected. The position is the best, being situated on the Hill
and surrounded by fruit trees, away from any dwelling whatsoever. Our work people
are supplied with white clothes so that the clean linen is in no way soiled by
coming into contact with material of a different colour and only the best pale soap
and boiling water is used. All goods are aired by us and we also mend all holes in
tablecloths and other linen free of cost. We are the only laundry that does this in
Cambridge. (Advert)

Tuesday 27th May

1978

Baitsbite Lock has a claim to fame that makes it a memorable gateway to Cambridge
for the visitors arriving by river. It is the most expensive lock in the kingdom’s
entire waterways system through which to take a boat. For years there have been
ripples of dissent among boating folk about the charges and now matters have come
to a head with the announcement of a further increase. People whose leisure or
livelihood depends on river boating are close to mutiny over the issue: “They keep
putting up the fee just to keep the cruisers out; it’s the rowing people: they want
the Cam to themselves”, one said

1953

The 700 scouts from Cambridgeshire who travelled by train to the Queen’s estate at
Sandringham for the Coronation Jamboree experienced one of the finest Scout camps
that has ever been held in this country, with bright sunny weather which seemed to
arrive just when it was wanted. There were shops, a tuck shop, ice cream and
mineral stands. Many of the gateways were gaily decorated and flags of many nations
were flying. The 7th (Cambridgeshire High School) troop erected a gateway
representing their school crest whilst the 26th Cambridge made their gateway from
the detachable handle of their trek-cart and made a two-tier table of the wheels.

1928

A Cottenham farmer said that heavy post-war losses in connection with heavy
stallions were the chief cause of his failure. He had started about 30 years ago at
Mitchell Fen near Twenty Pence Ferry. During the war his farming operations were
successful and he bought four shire stallions. But after the war horses went down
slump, the country was flooded with horses from abroad and farmers would not breed
horses. So he had his stallions on his hands and sold them; the four together for
which he had paid over £350 did not make more than 80 guineas.

1903

An old lady residing in Peterborough, named Mrs Susan Dudley, relates how she
suffered intolerable agony from indigestion. Her sleep was disturbed by dreams and
she arose with a splitting headache and totally unfit for work. She found a cure in
Mother Seigel’s Syrup: “Six bottles completely cured me and I have not suffered
from indigestion since”, she says. It is always so, Seigel’s Syrup does thorough
work, no patching.

Wednesday 28th May

1978

Barnwell station will not be reopened to deal with next season’s influx of soccer
fans … because British Rail does not own it. There has been growing support for the
idea since Cambridge United won promotion to the Second Division, as a way of
stopping fans who come by rail from wandering through the city. But the station has
ceased to exist and the land is part of a private dwelling. Any new halt would be
an expensive and complicated business. The station house, platform and access were
sold off in the 1960s and now form the flourishing Kindrum Kennels.

1953

Flags fluttering in the breeze, decorations in traditional colours lining the

streets, special shop window displays – these are but a few of the features which
have given the city of Cambridge the Coronation look. The city centre, already a
scene of gaiety and colour, heralds the approach of next Tuesday’s great event. In
roads radiating from the centre, decorations to shops and other buildings are being
arranged. The majority of householders prefer to wait a little longer. For them D-
Day, with the ‘D’ standing for Decoration – will be some time this weekend. The
cost of decorations is an important consideration for many and consequently the
emphasis is on effect rather than on elaboration.

c.02

1928

Ely council decided to open the Barracks Field in Silver Street to the schools for
organised games. Ely was very badly situated for child life; the streets were
narrow and motor traffic made things worse for children to play on the streets.
This was a most ideal spot and they could find another field suitable for the
council’s horses. But their horsekeeper got no half-day on Saturday and if the
horses had to go out of town it would be impossible for him to put them out to
grass.

1903

A man living in Ainsworth Street, Cambridge was diagnosed with small-pox. He was
forthwith removed to the small-pox huts, Coldham’s Lane, and all known contacts
vaccinated and kept under observation. He was a goods guard on the Great Eastern
Railway whose train shunted opposite the small-pox camp in Tottenham Marshes and
there was reason to believe there was communication between persons in the camps
and the officials on the train. It is highly probable the disease was incepted from
the camps. He made a good recovery.

c.21.1
Thursday 29th May

1978

The dedication of a memorial to American GIs based at Bassingbourn during the war
gave a Cambridge woman an excuse to wear her black hat, which is 37 years old. “I
wear it with pride as it is a wartime relic”, she said. Doris Foster, who used to
be the landlady of the Angel public house at Royston, failed to recognise one of
her wartime regulars Sam Cipolla from Chicago. But he remembered her: “I used to
sneak under your fence to get a pint & used to give sweets to the children who
called me Uncle Sam”, he said. He may have recognised the hat which she often wore
while serving in the bar because the Americans liked it.

1953

Prince Akihito, the Crown Prince of Japan arrived in Cambridge on a short private
visit to the University. He visited the University Library where he was shown the
signatures of his father, the present Emperor, who came to Cambridge in 1921, and
the Japanese collection of 30,000 volumes, one of the best collections outside
Japan. The 19-year-old Prince had lunch with four undergraduates and chatted about
student life.

1928

Damage estimated at £1,000 was done in a fire which broke out at the S.P.Q.E.
garage in Old Station Road, Newmarket. Mr Montague Cooper, who sleeps on the
premises of Messrs Bedwell, music dealers, was awakened by the crackling of the
fire and the smashing of glass. He informed the police who were soon on the scene
and burst open the garage doors and found three motor cars in flames. They were the
property of the Rev. W.G. Softley (Primitive Methodist minister), John Boardman and
George Hogg. Six other cars were removed, amongst them one belonging to Mr
Compodonico.

1903

Typhoid fever was present in Cambridge during the year, 17 cases in 14 households
having been notified. Four were county cases admitted into Addenbrooke's Hospital
for treatment; five were imported from Fenstanton, Swaffham, Norfolk, Littleport
and London. Two cases were probably due to eating shellfish. Two were nurses who
had charge of typhoid patients and others could not be accounted for. Three of the
cases proved fatal

c.21.1

Friday 30th May

1978

The Government is to give £40,000 towards a controversial plan to convert the

Methodist Church in Mill Road, Cambridge into a youth centre for the Romsey area.
Objectors are concerned about traffic noise and vandalism that might result from
the centre. But it will always be supervised, no alcohol will be served and most of
the children will be too young to drive motor bikes or cars. It is designed to take
trouble-makers off the streets and give them something to do

1953
Albert Butler, proprietor of Messrs Haslop & Co, butchers of Silver Street,
Cambridge, retired after 53 years in the butchery business. He recalled going to
market to buy his first bullock – the dearest one he ever bought - & remembered
when families ordered 8 lb [EIGHT POUND] joints and rump steak was 1s 2d a pound.
He prophesised the end of meat rationing within a year but thinks the trade would
find itself in a serious position: while boys were not entering the business as
they used to, even those who did received no slaughtering experience. “I don’t know
where our slaughtermen of the future are coming from”, he said.

c.27.2

1928

Amid scenes of enthusiasm the Mayor of Cambridge opened the new Coleridge Road
recreation ground which has just been completed at a total cost of £7,000. It was
in September 1925 the Corporation bought the ground for the public and ever since
then the Surveyor and his merry men had been preparing it. By the autumn they would
be able to play football on it and by next summer cricket. They wanted to make a
garden as well and if any person felt disposed to present them with a dozen
flowering trees the council would make good use of them. Critics said it was not
wanted but in the future many would be grateful for it. It would keep the children
off the streets and from the danger of the traffic.

c.32.3

1903

The Cambridge Telephone Committee reported that the mass of existing telephone
subscribers lie grouped in the centre; the number of existing lines belonging to
the National Telephone Company does not exceed 450 in Cambridge and 20 in Shelford.
They would provide for 600 lines with poles for 600 more. Wires would be put
underground and out of sight. The Council should apply for a licence to work a
telephone system of their own with modern instruments

c.27.7

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 2nd June

1978

The News decided to celebrate its 90th birthday by doing something light-hearted
and invited 90 members of the Mid-Anglia population to pose for a photograph that
would show a cross-section of the diverse community it seeks to serve. People who
might never meet in everyday life found themselves jumbled together on the Shire
Hall lawns for a photograph. Boxer and bank manager, actress and agronomist,
proctor and postman became neighbours in a marvellous mixture. There was even a dog
and a rabbit to represent readers’ fondness for household pets. Aqualung diver Bob
Kirby was driven to taking ice from the champagne buckets in a desperate attempt to
keep cool.

1953
In cold, blustery weather the City of Cambridge put on a brave show in celebration
of the Coronation Day of Queen Elizabeth II. Despite the almost wintry conditions
the extensive and varied programme was carried through practically unchanged.
Everything testified to the magnificent spirit of the occasion and the unanimous
desire of the people of Cambridge to make their contribution to the world-wide
acknowledgement of this great day. For much of the time it was a matter of
celebrating briefly and then dashing for shelter under the trees or in marquees
from another downpour

c.02

1928

The work of repairing the fabric of St Ives parish church, which was seriously
damaged by a British aeroplane on 23rd March 1918 having been completed, a service
of thanksgiving was held. The Bishop of Ely said it was hard that the burden of
repairing a church should fall upon our generation, but we inherited these
priceless treasures from those who had made sacrifices in days gone by. About £600
was still required for rehanging the bells and replacing the clock

1903

The new municipal cemetery, which Cambridge Corporation has prepared on Newmarket
Road, was opened for interments. In anticipation of the time when the general
public will regard burial more from a sanitary than from a sentimental point of
view, a part of the ground adjoining Ditton Lane has been reserved for the erection
of a crematorium. The first interment was a child named Alfred Willet Whitmore; the
coffin was borne by six young ladies and Mr Ellis Merry was the undertaker.

c.21.1

Tuesday 3rd June

1978

A scheme which could save thousands of pounds a year is likely to be pigeon-holed

because its implications are too radical for most Cambridgeshire county
councillors. They run the largest smallholdings estates in the country but a report
recommends it should be reduced by a third. If the land is sold the council would
lose £340,000 a year in rents but would make a capital gain of £10 million. It is
likely the old guard will opt for merging holdings and selling off surplus land,
but perhaps in five years a different view might prevail.

1953

On Coronation Day Pye Ltd of Cambridge operated the first colour television outside
broadcast ever done in this country. It was seen in a well-known Children’s
Hospital and several other selected places. Three colour cameras used in
transmission were sited on top of Government buildings facing Parliament Square and
Whitehall. Hundreds of people assembled in Cambridge Guildhall to watch the
ceremony on television. The latest television screens were used. The picture was
clear and precise but there was, of course, no control over the usual interference
from electrical appliances which all TV owners are forced to suffer in silence. Six
domestic TV sets were installed in the Corn Exchange and because of the bright
light, shields were fitted around the screens

c.27.8
1928

The Clerk of Milton Parish Council drew attention to the cess-pool known as the
pond and urged that the only way to remove this eyesore, which was a menace to the
health of the village, was to fill it up. The pond, being on a bend in the road was
a danger to traffic on dark or foggy nights. The road was a County thoroughfare and
it would be to their advantage if the pond were filled up.

1903

Ely court heard an interesting case relating to Grunty Fen which arose out of an
agreement with respect to cutting corn. James Howard had a horse and man and
William Driver had a machine for cutting wheat and they came to an agreement that
they would first cut Howard’s crop and afterwards Driver’s. Driver’s son employed
an 11-year-old boy to ride the foremost horse but it became restive and the poor
lad was thrown and received injuries

Wednesday 4th June

1978

Betty Clarke and Joyce Evans and the boys got together again down at the old
village café. These days it’s a garage storeroom; the ceiling paint is peeling, a
fire has not blazed in the corner for decades and the old piano is long gone. But
for the men of the 78th Bomb Group it was a memory mission. Five broke away from
the main sightseeing group at Duxford to take a nostalgic trip to one of their
wartime haunts, the Aerodrome Café. It was a day full of laughter and only the
happiest memories. One of the visitors said: “Berry hasn’t changed a bit, I’d have
known her walking down any street”

1953

In every main road and in narrow backstreets in Cambridge the flags are flying &
pictures of the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh and their children are in every other
window. Union Jacks and the flags of the Commonwealth make a vivid splash as they
flutter in the wind and at least one American family joined in the display with a
huge, brand-new Stars and Stripes. Silver Street Bridge blossomed out in red, white
and blue stripes – an unofficial decoration scheme believed to the work of
students.

1928

Cottenham pond had been filled in at a cost of £42. The figure was quite staggering
but an excellent job had been made and the village beautified so the expense was
warranted. An insanitary place had been cleared away – there had been talk of
typhoid two years ago – and it was more economic than cleansing the pond in the
long run. But it seemed that Cottenham had made a dump for their rubbish and
charged the District Council with it. Nearly every village had a pond and they
would all want them filled.

1903

The policy of passive resistance to the Education Act by the non-payment of the
education rate is now being widely adopted in Cambridge. A marked increase in the
number of those refusing to pay has taken place since the manifesto by Cambridge
Nonconformist ministers. Before its issue local Nonconformists who had merely
pledged themselves to passive resistance were to be numbered by dozens. Now at
least 200 have withheld that part of the rate they consider would be apportioned
for education purposes

c.36.5

Thursday 5th June

1978

Lives are at risk from rapid flooding because of the inadequacy of Cambridgeshire’s
archaic drainage system, a councillor claims. A key part of the system, Earith
sluice gates, is governed by regulations made more than 150 years ago which prevent
the operator from acting promptly to stop homes and fields being flooded. Recently
farmers were so desperate they took the law into their own hands and cut through a
flood bank to release millions of gallons of water which were threatening a
village, farmland and cattle. The system was designed to cope with water that would
soak through the land, but now things have changed with all the development along
the A604 area

1953

The special prize of £5 for the best decorated private house competition in
Cambridge was won by Mrs M. O’Dell of Staffordshire Street who beat her nearest
rival, Mr A.A. Cox of Victoria Road by one point. The standard was high and points
awarded for each ward were very close. Winners included: Abbey Ward Mr R. Runham of
Wellington Street; Castle: Miss J. Bowers, Windsor Road; Coleridge: Mr Blows,
Cherry Hinton Road; Cherry Hinton: Mr R. Abraham, Chalmers Road and Market Mr
W.G.D. Clee of Union Road.

1928

It is estimate that 15,000 people attended the annual County Conservative Fete in
the beautiful grounds of Harold Gray’s estate on the Gog Magogs and the event was a
bigger success than ever. The well-organised non-stop programme of amusements
included sports, side-shows, a rabbit show, motor-cycle and whippet racing and made
it impossible for there to be one dull minute from two o’clock in the afternoon
until eleven at night, when the round of pleasure came to an end with a grand
fireworks display.

1903

Like the farmer the fruit-grower may now and again be permitted a grumble. This
year the crop promises to be one of the poorest within the recollection of living
man. At Histon hundreds of the inhabitants of this quiet village find lucrative and
healthful employment picking – or ‘pulling’ fruit and the failure of the crop is a
matter of import. The consumer too will have reason to complain when he has to pay
a greatly increased price for his favourite brand of apple, when he may long in
vain for pears and only catch an occasional glimpse of plums. There is one
consolation; strawberries may be plentiful and perhaps cheap

Friday 6th June

1978

Frank Bell has stood down as director of the Bell School of Languages in Cambridge
and called for tighter controls over foreign language teaching. “There are some
cowboys who simply open during the summer in any old hall they can”, he said. When
he started in 1953 most of the students were simply finishing off part of their
private education. Now the majority have a professional interest in learning the
language and are financed by their firms or governments. He envisages an even
greater boom and the Bell School, at present attended by Princess Marie Astrid,
seems certain to expand and adapt to a changing role.

c.36.52
1953

Crowds of Cambridge people went to London for the Coronation. On Monday there was
an appreciable increase of London-bound travellers at Cambridge Railway Station and
on Coronation Day about 700 caught the two early morning ‘specials’. On Coronation
Eve the Eastern Counties Bus Company carried several coach loads of visitors,
arriving in London about 9.30 pm, giving the passengers a chance of finding a place
along the route of the procession. Many of the larger wine-stores enjoyed almost a
Christmas rush. There was a fairly large sale of champagne and an unusual demand
for port, sherry and table wines with which to drink the Queen’s health. Many of
the customers were obviously people who do not usually buy wine. This was a special
occasion and they intended to celebrate in the proper way.

1928

The first paid Marconigram was transmitted on June 3rd, 30 years ago. It was sent
by Lord Kelvin who was visiting Senatore Marconi’s experimental wireless station on
the Isle of Wight. In order to illustrate his belief in its commercial future, Lord
Kelvin insisted upon paying one shilling for a wireless telegram to be sent to Sir
George Stokes at Lensfield Cottage, Union Road, Cambridge.

c.27.7

1903

There is no doubt that the supply of lady housekeepers greatly exceeds the demand.
The salaries asked are pitifully small – an undertaking to act as a good plain
cook, to be musical and cheerful, for £20 a year, with board and lodging! A middle-
aged woman is often preferred to a skittish young thing, but she must be comely and
needs to have ‘a face for a rainy day’ and not a countenance on which the tragedy
of failure in life is too strongly marked.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 9th June

1978

Prince Charles spent a few moments talking to some of the crowd of visitors waiting
to greet him after he stepped out of his special train at the tiny Whittlesford
station. He was escorted to the Mill House to open the Hamilton Kerr Institute
where he was greeted by several hundred flag-waving children. Later, during the
official part of the proceedings plain-clothed police had to chase away small
children who tried to gatecrash by climbing over the garden wall.

1953

There was a Coronation motif in the decorations at the May Balls held at six
colleges. Red, white and blue predominated in floral designs and the coronation
flags and bunting still to be seen in the streets, together with the floodlighting
of so many buildings lent the various dances the aura of “a very special occasion
indeed”. The Backs offered a subdued fantasy in colour but a chill wind gave the
night a wintry nip and dissuaded many couples from ‘sitting-out’ their dances in
the open

1928

There was a thin line of spectators all along the towing path from the Railway
Bridge down to Grassy Corner for the May Races, and the enclosures on the Ditton
side were by no means deserted. The way to go to the races these days seems to be
by motor car; visitors prefer to rush there by road instead of wandering there by
river. Balloons and fantastic curio dolls did their best to give a carnival
atmosphere and a loud speaker attachment to a gramophone on one of the motor
launches emitted dance music. One of the best views was obtained from the five
‘planes which flew inquisitively over the river in formation, wheeling and turning
like giant silver birds.

1903

To Mr Sidney W. Lack of Cottenham belongs the honour of a feat which has never
before been accomplished by any other cyclist in England, namely winning eight
first prizes and one third prize at three consecutive athletic meetings in four
days. They were held at Dersingham, where he won three including the half-mile
scratch cycle race, Norwich where he won three more, and Wymondham where he secured
two first prizes. At Norwich two lads were leading him by some six lengths when
they both came a ‘cropper’, leaving him to race alone. This will stand out pre-
eminent as a red-letter week in the annals of Lack’s racing career.

Tuesday 10th June

1978

Most of the offices built on top of the City Council’s Lion Yard complex in the
centre of Cambridge are still unoccupied – nearly three years after completion of
the development. Now councillors are concerned about the loss of rents and want
more intensive steps taken to find tenants for the block, which is gathering dust.
Only 5,750 feet has been let, to a subsidiary of Barclay’s Bank but negotiations
are now taking place with two organisations. If these fall through some councillors
think they should let charity organisations use them

1953

People of all ages went to see the film “Elizabeth is Queen” at the Regal Cinema,
Cambridge. Hundreds of youngsters queued along St Andrew’s Street for instead of
going to school they were to see the coloured Coronation film. The contrast of the
children’s noisy chatter during the supporting film and the deep silence through
most of the main film was remarkable. It lasted about 50 minutes – a long time for
some of the youngsters to sit still – but there was scarcely a movement in the
downstairs part of the cinema.

1928

A meeting was held to protest against a proposal to close the public footpath
leading from Bartlow to Bartlow Church and close to the historic Bartlow Hills.
There had been an attempt to close the path 25 years ago and another attempt last
year. The path was partly in Cambs and partly in Essex and a parish council meeting
had given Linton R.D.C. the right to close it. If it were closed it would keep the
majority of Bartlow parishioners from the church. The dead had been carried down
that footpath and to many it was sacred. In these days of traffic they wanted to be
able to walk down footpaths and enjoy true nature.
1903

Sir – I was surprised to read that Cambridge Town Council is to apply for a licence
to establish a municipal telephone. Any scheme of municipal trading which involves
large public expenditure should be based on the fullest knowledge. The council has
no local experience and are certain to have all the competition of a powerful
company, admirably managed and not too scrupulous. They have asked advice from a
man whose business is to sell schemes and to be the engineer to carry them out; of
course he said it would work. Will a ferret suck a rabbit? – G.A. Matthew

c.27.7
Wednesday 11h June

1978

Annie Norman moved back into the home she has lived in for 36 – but it was a
different cottage to the one she left last October. The cottage at Church Street,
Stapleford was one of two bought for £1 from Shelford Building Supplies by the
Cambridgeshire Cottage Improvement Society. Now it has a bathroom and lavatory, new
thatch, plaster and paint. “It’s fantastic now, previously there was only a
lavatory at the bottom of the garden”, she said.

1953

Agriculturists attended the opening of the Owen Webb House, Cambridge, which
perpetuates the memory of the well-known farmer at Streetley Hall who died in 1951.
It had been his wish that various agricultural interests should be centred in one
building. There are club facilities where meals will be provided, a licensed bar
and a fair-sized car park, a necessary requirement in Cambridge. Outside
organisations connected with agriculture can take advantage of the facilities and
hire the conference room

1928

A dealer who kept a stall at Cambridge market and said that a few years’ back he
was taking big money and making a profit of £7 a week, ascribed his failure to a
variety of causes. They included bad weather, law costs and keen competition since
Woolworth’s Stores had been opened. He bought a Ford lorry but it caught fire as he
was going to Lakenheath for a sale and all the goods were burnt at the roadside.

1903

The influence of the cod liver oil famine has extended to Cambridge. A rise in
prices had reminded consumers of how curiously their pockets can be affected by the
capricious appetite of Norwhal whales that disport themselves in the northern seas
& have entered into a close partnership with the codfish. Six hundred cod were
recently found reposing in a stomach of a Norwhal which has proved very destructive
to a branch of commerce that depends upon the codfish. To make matters worse
reports from Bergen say that the fish caught recently possessed diminutive livers.
At Addenbrooke's Hospital the oil is being used somewhat less freely than formerly,
though patients for whom a supply is absolutely essential are not being stinted.

Thursday 12th June

1978
St Paul’s school in Russell Street, Cambridge is one of the earliest elementary
schools in Cambridge. It dates from 1845 and was designed by Ambrose Poynter,
probably the only classical school building in England ever designed by him. Now it
could be in danger of partial demolition since the school managers have decided
rebuild on a site that cuts right through it. It unlikely demolition will occur
because the old building is on one side of Russell Street and plans for the new
building are on the other side of the road. Now the City Council has asked for the
building to be listed.

1953

Sir – the Shire Hall assize courts were closed on my order in July last year
because the structure had become dangerous. Dry rot had been rampant for at least
50 years and the improvised repairs had done nothing to eliminate it. During the
work of demolition fragments of newspapers dated 1922 and 1925 have been found that
were left by workmen repairing the dry rot in those days. The council had to decide
whether to save the bare walls of the old building and rebuild the roof and the
whole of the interior, or to demolish it. The extent of the damage is now clearly
revealed and confirms the necessity of demolition – Wilfrid Wingate, County
Architect.

c.35.1

1928

A Newmarket man told how the coal strike of 1921 caused him to give up his
greengrocery round and take to selling peat. He ‘made a pound or two’ while it
lasted and afterwards bought a truck of coal and started as a coal dealer. He did
pretty well until the railway strike but then his coal was hung up and he never
earned a penny for a month. He had nothing to do except sell a little coke and wood
which did not bring £1 a week. He had a Ford motor lorry on the hire purchase
system which cost him £128, besides which he had to pay a man to drive it.

1903

Midland Railway. Cambridge University Summer Vacation. For the convenience of

Members of the University going down for the Summer Vacation, a special train (with
through carriages) will leave Cambridge affording a quick service to Kettering,
Leicester, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool and Edinburgh. Passengers’ luggage in
bulk is collected from the colleges and schools at the charge of 8s per load -
advert

Friday 13th June

1978

About 800 of the country’s small rural schools have vanished in the past 10 years.
Financially county councils claim there are not viable. But in Cambridgeshire four
small villages have had a scheme approved which they hope will save their schools.
Ashley, Cheveley, Woodditton and Kirtling have formed a Schools Federation,
creating one school from four, but without the loss of any. Each will be maintained
under one administration, rather than four, cutting costs and increasing the scope
for improved facilities and a broader education. There will be one headmaster and
six assistant teachers and a larger range of reading books which will float between
the schools.

1953
A House of Commons committee considered the question of allowances for naval
students at Cambridge University. Officers go to Dartmouth for two terms and then
go to sea before being sent to Cambridge where they read the Mechanical Sciences
Tripos for three years. During the long vacation they are put to work in industries
around the countryside. On the completion of their Cambridge course with a degree
they enter the electrical school at Farnham. The Chairman asked how their pay was
affected when at Cambridge and did they receive an allowance in addition, so they
did not become ‘broke’. They must have something in the way of an allowance.

c.36.9 # c.45.8

1928

As a result of much discussion it has been decided that Papworth should be the
‘Papworth Village Settlement’, and not the Cambridgeshire Tuberculosis Colony. The
name had grown up by itself and the name of the county was no longer applicable.
There was a continual need for more cottages as men, and women also, leave the
sanatorium and desire to enter the village community.

1903

The Granta Cycling Club ceased to exist when the annual meeting was held at the
Blue Boar Hotel, Cambridge. When the track at the Backs of the Colleges was in use
the membership rose to 50 but it has been gradually dwindling for the last three
years since no cycling track has been available in Cambridge. In the event of a
cycle track being obtained they will make an effort to revive the club. The balance
sheet showed that the club died solvent. .

c.38 : cycling
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 16th June

1978

Cambridgeshire skateboarders may soon have nearly 400 skate parks made available to
them. The county education authority has decided to allow all suitable school
premises to be used for skateboarding. Most schools have large concrete areas
suitable for use outside school hours, but they must be adequately supervised and
safety equipment used. The Road Safety Officer has welcomed the move to get
children off the streets, where they are in obvious danger. Cambridge City Council
is to build a skateboard park complex at Cheddar’s Lane and a number of disused
tennis courts are being converted into temporary skateboarding areas for beginners

1953

A spy wandering the streets of Cambridge on Thursday night would not have stood a
chance. Three patrols, each in charge of an officer and NCO of the Cambs Home Guard
patrolled the East Road area and collared five suspects, amongst whom were two
spies. A slenderly-built, quietly dressed brunette was stopped by a patrol who
found a flaw in her identity card and she was taken away in a car to Battalion H.Q.
This was, of course, an exercise but in a real emergency Cambridge people need not
worry about spies wandering the streets of the city.

1928
The District council was told that the Hon Gerald Agar-Robartes had agreed to let
the council have a site for some new cottages at Arrington. But he had now written
a letter: “I have been thinking over the site for the cottages and am afraid they
would not look well unless they were thatched. If the Council are not willing to
thatch them they would have to build further down the road.” However the other site
was very unsuitable because there was no water and there was a very obnoxious ditch
running near it.

1903

An interesting and pretty wedding was solemnised at Haddenham between the Rev
Walter Covey Crump and Miss Hilda Porter. The bridegroom was until recently curate
of Haddenham and the bride has been for a long period connected with church matters
there. It was therefore not surprising that upon so auspicious an occasion the
ancient church should be crowded by a large concourse of friends and well-wishers.
The bride looked charming in a dress of soft ivory satin and chiffon, trimmed with
true lovers’ knots of chiffon, with a wreath of orange blossoms and a veil of old
Limerick lace.

Tuesday 17th June

1978

London thieves with ‘shopping lists’ of property they intend to steal will descend
on Cambridge shops as soon as the M11 brings them within an hour of the city,
police warned traders. It would become a fast and easy touch for gangs of London-
based professional crooks. Now the traders are to discuss setting up a system to
combat the menace. When the new roads are open it will be an easy 55-minute run
from the East End of London where the better class thieves and receivers live and
operate. They get orders for 50 suits of a particular kind and then come up here,
police said.

1953

The Shirley School was the scene of festivities on two days when 900 children of
Old Chesterton gathered for their Coronation party. There was a fancy dress and
vehicle parade and a film show, but the highlight was tea in the tastefully-
decorated dining room. The tables were laden with sandwiches, sausage rolls,
trifles, fruit-jellies and fancy cakes. Both soft drinks and tea were available.
Need it be said that all these goodies disappeared rapidly.

1928

There are now 12 men on the books of the Cambridge Disabled Soldiers Workshop in
Gloucester Street. Three have had the right arm amputated, seven the leg and of the
remaining two one suffered from the effects of gassing and injuries to the head and
the other from severe injuries to the abdomen. Half were employed up to the 48-hour
week and the maximum wage was 36s a week to the foreman. In addition to the basket
and rush work and wool knitting they were developing the knitting of silk
stockings, jumpers and ties, the re-upholstering of chairs and the making and
renovating of mattresses

c.45.6

1903

A terrible discovery was made at a stack near Saffron Walden. A labourer came
across the remains of a man with his leg protruding beyond the covering of the
straw and P.C. Field of Newport was sent for. The body upon being uncovered
presented a ghastly spectacle, all plump portions of the flesh having been devoured
by rats, together with portions of the face and neck. There was no left arm, not
any indication the deceased had had one. It is thought he had been there many
weeks. He was attired in the remains of a fashionable cut tweed and wearing good
boots with a hat of the Christy’s make.

Wednesday 18th June

1978

The 150-year-old Magdalene Bridge in Cambridge is in grave danger of collapsing,

councillors were told. For the last 11 years there has been a three-ton vehicle
restriction but sometimes the inter-continental ‘juggernaut’ lorries travelling
through the city take a wrong turning and pass over the bridge. Now the abutments,
which support the bridge at both ends, are moving apart and if this continues it
could eventually break its back. Plans were made to rebuild the bridge but
environmentalists objected and at a public inquiry it was decided the bridge should
be strengthened, retaining its present appearance. But Government engineers came up
against insuperable technical problems in the use of the cast-iron parapets and
have suggested cast-steel instead.

c.44.7

1953

In spite of dull conditions members of the firm of Messrs Kerridge Ltd and their
children turned up in force for the Coronation sports and party on Pye Sports
Ground. A parade was led by the Boys Brigade band and there was a whole range of
side-shows which were free to the children with roundabouts for the toddlers, real
ponies and miniature train rides. After tea ‘Len’ Palmer and his accordion was
supported by his three charming daughters in delightful sketches and dances,
culminating with the youngest in Coronation robes and a crown.

1928

Sir – a few flourishing factories would do more to enhance the prosperity of

Cambridge than any future benefit from its dependence on the University. All the
colleges possessing the necessary facilities are building with the object of
accommodating their own students, which will mean a financial loss to many
residents who depend on a lodging house for their meagre livelihood. It is high
time the lodging house keepers organised for the mutual protection of their
interests, otherwise pleasant landscapes will prove poor consolation for genteel
and grinding poverty - Pessimist

1903

Messrs Simpson and Co’s bakery in Cherry Hinton Road Cambridge is as up-to-date and
hygienic as any in the Kingdom. It is the only steam and machine bakery, a
substantially constructed building fitted with machinery of a strange appearance.
Electricity supplies the light and driving power but exquisite cleanliness is the
feature which most strikes the visitors. The public have not yet realised the
importance of insisting on such conditions though they send a whole-hearted grumble
at finding a cremated insect, stray pieces of the miller’s sack or unusual traces
of potato in their bread.

c.27

Thursday 19th June

1978

Cambridge City Council’s new-style ‘instant’ lotteries could raise about £100,000 a
year for the council. The first competition is a sell-out with the council making a
£4,000 profit in less than a fortnight. The new-style lotteries have more than
3,000 prizes ranging from 50p to £500 which can be claimed at the time of purchase.
These winning tickets then go forward to the final draw for the big prize of
£1,000. The council made an average of well under £2,000 from each of its old-style
lotteries run at six-weekly intervals during their first year of operation

1953

Polish ‘squatters living in a hutment at Mepal will soon want new homes. Huts
accommodating 10 families are now nearing the end of their useful life and
Cambridge councillors have been asked to accept 47 of the families on their housing
list because the husband is employed in the city. They will accept them ‘but they
will have to take their turn’

1928

Cambridge has probably more gramophones than any other town of corresponding size.
Many people thought that with the advent of wireless the enthusiasm for gramophone
music would diminish but this is far from the case, as a walk by the river on a
sunny day will show. It would not surprise me to learn that all gramophone records
have been broken during the May Week with a sale greater than ever before. Mr Noel
Coward, the 28-year-old genius has recorded the music from the revue, ‘This Year of
Grace’ at the London Pavilion

1903

Sir – it is well-known that owing to inadequate incomes some of our foremost

resident mathematicians, whose work reflects honour upon the University, are
compelled to divert their energies to routine work of a remunerative character. It
is very desirable that means should be found to obviate this difficulty which has
become more pressing owing to the shrinkage of college incomes. Very substantial
benefits would accrue if funds were available to raise the stipends of two
lecturers in mathematics from £50 to £250 a year – G.H. Darwin.

c.36.9

Friday 20th June

1978

After three years trials a manager of one of Fenland’s biggest farms – the 8,000-
acre Hiams estate – is convinced that he has softened the impact of two of the
worst hazards on the rich black peat – blowing and flooding. Keith Richardson
believes that a German-made machine known as a cultipacker will provide better seed
beds for root crops. The action of the machine in breaking clods and levelling
without causing soil to compact too tightly, is the secret of its success and there
is less flooding and blowing. The main problems have come when they hit bog oaks.

1953

At Ditton Fields Coronation Party 228 children wearing fancy hats and carrying
flags and streamers marched to Priory School where they sat down to a grand tea
catered by Messrs Hawkins Ltd. Afterwards there were musical games and sing-song
and a fancy-dress competition whilst entertainment by Mr F. Cross kept the party
spellbound. At the end each child was presented with a small souvenir, sweets and
ices.

1928

Sir – I happen to live opposite the field-gun in Tenison Road. It is not a relic of
the Great War but a captured trophy from the Boer War. To me it represents history
and the enormous sacrifices made by the pick of our population. Our war memorials
tell our children of a great deliverance. Had we been defeated no doubt we should
have had more hideous monuments, probably statues of the Kaiser and the boastful
Hindenburg, at which some of the pro-Germans could kneel. Let these small tokens
that speak of victory over injustice be preserved for all time – C.J. Challess

c.45.4

1903

For the past two days thousands of acres around Sawston and Whittlesford have been
flooded to the depth of six feet; a considerable stretch of the main railway line
has been under water and trains have to very carefully plough through it. A gang of
platelayers were at work to combat with anything that might occur and slag, granite
and other ballast was unloaded. Early in the afternoon the water sank considerably
and the rails were for the most part visible. A new danger presented itself for as
the water subsided the ballast began to disappear and, the line becoming unsafe,
all traffic was stopped.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 23rd June

1978

Take 33 excited ten-year-olds, load them on to a riverboat, steam northwards for

two and a half hours, deposit them in a wild fen with little more than a wooden
shack for shelter, then keep them fed, clean and busy for three days. That was the
job in hand for two teachers from The Grove Junior School on an environmental
studies expedition to Wicken Fen. Long hours call for such diverse talents as an
ability to catch insects, find mislaid wellington boots, cook a gallon of custard
and handle a dormitory riot at midnight

1953

An open verdict was recorded at an inquest into the Venezuelan pilot of a Meteor
jet plane which crashed near Pasture Farm, Caxton. Wreckage was scattered over a
wide area. PC Leonard from Caxton described how he was awakened at 1.20 am by the
roar of a low-flying aircraft. From his window he saw a red flash and heard an
explosion. The pilot had taken off from Oakington just before midnight. He was in
Britain as head of a Venezuela training mission.

1928

Damage estimated at £100 was caused by a fire which broke out at Swavesey. Smoke
and flames were seen coming from the premises of James Prior, a furniture dealer of
Boxworth End. Neighbours and men working in the fields brought pails of water and
rendered what assistance they could and the Swavesey Fire Brigade were soon on the
scene with hose and hydrant. A Morris commercial van, a horse trolley and sheds
were burnt as also a lot of furniture, fruit baskets and carpenter’s tools.
Thatched cottages nearby were in great danger owing to sparks and a man named Thorp
climbed on to the roof from where he played water. The fire is believed to have
been caused by two little children playing with matches.

1903

Enormous interest centred round the opening of the sensational trial of Samuel
Dougal on a charge of murder at the Moat Farm, Clavering. From all parts of the
county crowds of people made their way and congregated in front of Shire Hall,
Chelmsford. Many who hoped to be present at the opening of one of the most grimly
interesting dramas ever enacted in a criminal court were doomed to disappointment.
In order to accommodate the large number of Press representatives special desks had
been erected in the small space usually allotted to the public, leaving but a tiny
side gallery for those with a special ticket.

Tuesday 24th June

1978

Some Cambridge colleges are threatening to ban visitors because this year’s greatly
increased numbers of tourists are causing problems. It is important to provide a
permanent tourist coach park somewhere near the main tourist centre. A report says
the best site would be on common and allotment land next to the News building on
Newmarket Road. But some councillors think the ideal place would be in the vicinity
of the railway station, at Saxon Street car park or on derelict land at the corner
of Histon Road and Victoria Road.

1953

Mothers at Papworth Everard want a traffic warden to see their children safely
across the main London Road to and from school. But the County Road Safety
Committee does not consider the road is dangerous enough. “If you appoint a traffic
warden whenever any Tom, Dick and Harry say there should be one and from their
parish pump point of view … well we shan’t stop anywhere”, Ald Watts said

1928

St Ives Fire Brigade was called to a surprise false alarm. The engineer was at the
Brigade Station in 3½ [THREE AND A HALF] minutes, the captain was on the scene in
uniform in four minutes and one hose was soon playing on the building. Two hoses
were then tried but the force of water was quite inadequate, only reaching about 20
feet. The manual engine was put on the Quayside but it was found that the present
fire engine would not be of any use in case of a fire. A demonstration should take
place with the steam engine offered for sale to the council.

1903

There has been a recurrence of small pox in Cambridge. A well-known tradesman was
removed to the Isolation Hospital and everybody who had been in contact with him
was vaccinated and the premises and clothes disinfected. Had the information about
smallpox spread it must have had a very deterrent effect upon the trade of the town
and driven away many ‘May Week’ visitors. Ladies especially view possible
disfigurement with feelings of revulsion. We considered we were justified in
withholding the news until the close of festivities. The smallpox is contemporary
with a widespread epidemic of scarlet fever which has taxed the Sanatorium almost
to its limits.

c.21.1
Wednesday 25th June

1978

Cambridge University Library tower, the last great challenge to the student night
climbing fraternity, has been scaled. Two men took just four hours and 15 minutes
to climb to the base of the flagpole and attributed their success to the
unsuccessful attempts of others during the past twelve months who left bolts
attached to the brickwork for safety purposes. It is without doubt the most
difficult and dangerous building to climb. On the ascent they caused damage to a
small window on the top of the tower. “This was completely unintentional and very
much regretted. We have already sent off money to pay for the damage”, one student
said.

c.38 : nightclimbing

1953

A chapter in rowing history was written when members of the Rob Roy Boat Club
initiated their first boat, the ‘John Collin’ clinker eight to the river with a
champagne send-off. It commemorates a man who for nearly 60 years had a brilliant
record with the Club. He coached the Robs when they held the Head of the River
plate on 22 occasions, and from 1914 to the present day they have always been in
the first three boats on the river.

c.38 : rowing

1928

Sir – the residents in Bridge Street and Magdalene Street, Cambridge, have just
passed through a hectic week of sleepless nights, caused by the traffic and
University men returning from balls etc all hours of the night, and just when we
expect to get a little quiet and rest after May Week the Corporation start their
offensive. If the street must be paved in a week why not let the men work from 7 am
till 10.30 pm instead of dragging them out of their beds at 3 am and keeping other
people awake as well? Why all the hustle. Is it to save the buses making a wider
detour? – Harry Langdon

1903

Two cottages in Albion Row belonging to Cambridge Corporation and next to the Nag’s
Head public house are in such an unsatisfactory state that it would be inadvisable
to execute any repairs; they should be pulled down and new cottages erected in
their place. By setting back the frontage it will increase the width of the road
and render a further improvement possible when the lease of the adjoining property
falls in.

Thursday 26th June

1978

When Tony May of Stretham went blind earlier this year he thought he would go ‘mad’
just sitting about doing nothing. He started taking the Cambridge Talking News
service for blind people but realised it contained little or new news about the Ely
district. So he hit on the idea of a ‘talking’ newspaper called ‘Fenprobe’ to keep
people abreast with local news. Once established he hopes to branch out to include
music and requests and on-the-spot coverage of major local events.

1953

A miniature town of tents, side-shows and enormous gaily-coloured structures

housing a thousand thrills for the venturesome has made its annual appearance on
Midsummer Common. But this year the Fair seems to be bigger and brighter than ever;
it offers a more animated scene than in the past and there is an air of friendly
gaiety, shared by showmen and their patrons which suggests the influence of
Coronation year. The Town Clerk read the proclamation then all members of the
Mayoral party threw handfuls of half-pennies among the crowd. The many children
present were in their element and scrambling amongst the feet of the adults made a
fair harvest of this welcome crop of shining coins. The Fair is the biggest in the
Eastern Counties and can boast no fewer than 24 roundabouts. The ‘Dodgems’ are a
special feature, reputedly amongst the best of any fair in England.

c.27.3

1928

Fen Ditton school has been inspected but no attempt should be made to improve the
existing buildings. Improvements would cost £1,800 but owing to the cramped nature
of the site it would be a waste of money to try and patch up the old school and far
better to spend a bit more and have a new one. It was possible that the population
would increase and if a suitable site was available Horningsea school could be
grouped with it, with a consequent saving in salaries.

1903

Numerous complaints have been received from residents of Chesterton Road about
nightly depredations upon their flowerbeds and window boxes. Some of the prettiest
gardens facing the road have been completely wrecked by mischievous persons. One
garden was stripped of every flower. Many residents take a great deal of pride in
their gardens and spend no inconsiderable amount of their incomes in keeping them
smart and well stocked. It is to be hoped the police will keep a sharp eye for
offenders and they will be dealt with in a manner which will prove a salutary
warning to similarly-inclined persons.

Friday 27th June

1978

The cost of providing a complete flood protection scheme for the Newnham and
Riverside areas of Cambridge would be ‘totally out of proportion to the benefits,
however desirable’, councillors have been told. Flooding occurred for two days on
the Gough Way housing estate when the Bin Brook overflowed during heavy rain and
the River Cam overflowed its banks at Riverside during the same period. But the
emergencies arose from exceptionally heavy and intense rainfall for which it is not
reasonable to provide capacity within the sewers, water courses or main rivers and
relatively few residential properties were actually flooded.

c.46.5

1953

Over 100 cadets of the Cambridge District of the Order of the Sons of Temperance
took part in a Coronation demonstration parade along Mill Road, headed by the Boy’s
Brigade Band. They were from the Hope of Cambridge, King’s Own, Chesterton United
and Beacon Societies. Several entered for the fancy dress competition which was
judged by Mr & Mrs David Moore. The winners were, girls – Marjorie Mason (Spanish
Lady), boys – Norman Knight (Guardsman). Decorated vehicle – Catherine Newman,
doll’s pram (golden coach).

1928

The Cambridge Borough Librarian reported that a reader at the Central Library had
been detected in cutting out a coupon from a daily paper, and that he had refused
the reader permission to use the libraries until the matter was referred to the
Library Committee. They approved his action and decided that the reader in question
be excluded from the libraries and reading room for a period of six months.

1903

Not every village is favoured as is Little Gransden, the picturesque dwelling place
of an agricultural community. Under the will of Miss Julia Norris a respectable
proportion of the 200 inhabitants are provided for in their old age and four will,
in addition to receiving a weekly stipend, be housed in ornate almshouses which
will be the envy of less fortunate parishes. The trustees have caused to be erected
a block of four almshouses, in them one old married couple, a widow and a widower
reside, with a caretaker. The married couple receives 10s, weekly, the widow and
widower 7s.6d. each while the caretaker is paid 10s per week. The remainder of the
revenue is distributed among the poor who are aged or inform and must be
communicant members of the Church of England. Those who have been resident in the
parish three years have the first claim

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 30th June

1978

More than twice as many new homes were completed in the South Cambridgeshire
district during 1977 than in the Cambridge city area. And nationwide statistics
show that the private sector building is the reason behind the boom. For while 333
dwellings were built by the local authority in South Cambs, private builders
completed 750 homes. In Huntingdon 772 out of 1,011 homes finished were built by
the private sector. But in Cambridge only 110 homes were built privately, compared
to 405 by the council.

1953

There is no need for Cambridge people to be stingy about water, said the Chairman
of Cambridge University and Town Waterworks Company. “The company in all its 100
years’ history has never had to tell people that they must not water their
gardens”, he said. But he also stressed the need for consumers to avoid wastage.
With an average of four people in each household domestic water cost each person
about 1d a week – half the cost of one cigarette.

1928

The annual shooting competition between the Cambridgeshire Regiment and Ely
Divisional Police took place on the Butts, Lynn Road, Ely. The ‘boys in blue’ are
to be congratulated in making such a good show against their brethren in khaki who
are at present in actual training and the police were only 47 points behind their
rivals. Capt D. Harper of Ely acted as hon. butt steward for the police and Sergt-
Instructor Jackson fulfilled the like office for the ‘Terriers’

1903

Large crowds waited outside the Assize Courts at Chelmsford in the hope of gaining
admission to the trial for murder at Clavering, ladies especially exhibiting the
keenest eagerness to obtain seats in the courts. Punctually on the stroke of ten Mr
Justice Wright entered the court with a fanfare of trumpets and a second later the
prisoner, with head erect and shoulders squared, made his appearance in the dock.
The shoemaker who made the boots found on the woman’s body took his place in the
witness box, then came a gunmaker who gave evidence as to the range at which the
fatal bullet was fired.

Tuesday 1st July

1978

Those who frequent the lane which runs past Little St Mary’s church in Cambridge
will have noticed some strange comings and goings in the last few months. The quiet
churchyard has been disturbed by workmen with scaffolding, planks and ornamental
woodwork. Oddly-shaped crates have been delivered and strange-looking pieces of
mechanism have been unloaded. The church has been getting a new organ which
incorporates antique pipework rescued from a village church in Norfolk.

1953

Customers calling at the grocery department of Matthew and Son in Trinity Street,
Cambridge, have been startled to find, in the midst of all the food displayed – a
caravan! Strictly speaking, ‘caravanette’ is a more accurate description, for it is
not much larger than an ordinary farm-car trailer. It can be hauled behind an 8
h.p. car or even a motor-cycle combination, yet provides ample sleeping
accommodation for two people and has a miniature kitchen. Moderately priced, it is
likely to prove one of the most popular models that Cambridge Caravans Ltd have
produced.

1928

Mary White, alias Zeta was charged with using palmistry and crystal gazing to
deceive at Midsummer Fair. Two policewomen gave evidence of visiting her tent and
paying 3s to have their hands examined. But she had applied to the Borough Surveyor
for the ground, six foot by four feet for a palmistry tent and had enclosed 5s for
premium. She had a letter giving her permission to stand as palmist. Why was the
ground let for business which was said to be illegal. The Bench decided to convict,
but with no penalty.

1903

The Moat Farm Mystery is solved at last. The verdict of ‘Guilty’ brought to a close
a case that will rank as one of the most celebrated in the annals of British crime.
In the minds of the general public the prisoner was condemned to death on the day
the body was found with a bullet in the skull in the slimy ditch at the lonely
farmhouse. The spot was well-selected for such a purpose, lonely and with no
inhabited houses in the vicinity and far from a railway station. She was a cultured
lady, possessed of some £6,000 inherited from her aunt and a woman of charming
disposition. The deed that has put the hangman’s rope round his neck was cowardly
and brutal beyond expression. Advert: A brake will leave Hyde Park Corner on Sunday
for Moat Farm. Return fare 3s.
Wednesday 2nd July

1978

Otter houndsmen are angry at a Government report which comes out strongly against
hunting coypu, a large beaver-like rodent with a hearty appetite for farm crops.
The pest is now invading the fringe of the fens after fanning out from its
Broadland stronghold. The Eastern Counties Hounds, who this year celebrate their
centenary, have been hunting coypu in greater numbers since otter hunting stopped
eight years ago. Last year they killed more than 200 coypus and this helped hold
down their population to about 8,000 in East Anglia

1953

The last batch of over 2,000 schoolchildren attended a special showing of the
Coronation film, ‘Elizabeth is Queen’, at the Kingsway Cinema, Newmarket.
Originally it was planned that the town’s two cinemas should arrange special
performances for the children but a last minute hitch prevented the Doric from
taking part. The renters of the film objected to the children being admitted free
and desired the management to make a charge of 1s. a head. But the directors of the
Kingsway offered to provide four special performances and all members of their
staff gave their services free

1928

Mr & Mrs Burling of Milton were in their house during a thunderstorm. The aerial of
his three-valve wireless set was attached to a large tree and the other end to the
front of the house. Suddenly there was a tremendous clap of thunder and a noise
like an explosion. The room was full of sparks and fire; he heard his wife scream
and saw her hair was on fire. With great presence of mind he put out the flames and
carried her into the next room. The curtains were alight and two of the wireless
valves were completely broken.

1903

An action arising from the Moat Farm murder case came before the Lord Chief
Justice. The editor of ‘The Star’ committed for contempt for publishing an article
alleged to prejudice a fair trial. But the article related to a charge of forgery,
which had been withdrawn. The murderer’s solicitor was then charged that after
obtaining a rule against the ‘Star’ he had threatened other newspapers, from one of
which, ‘The Herts and Essex Observer’ he had accepted 50 guineas in consideration
of his taking no further steps.

Thursday 3rd July

1978

A plant growing in the fens near Huntingdon could hold the key to a crisis being
forecast with supplies of The Pill. Fenugreek produces a chemical which is a vital
ingredient of the contraceptive pill. Now a small glasshouse of the plant has been
produced together with a secret field which will boost seed stocks if the idea
catches on. Much hinges on the attitude of the big chemical companies. At present
they derive most of their supply from yams grown in Mexico, but there is now a ban
on exporting so they have taken to producing it on the spot.
1953

A recent decision by St Ives Council to break up and dispose of an historic Fenland

lighter – presented last year – has had serious repercussions. Before donating it
as a museum-piece Mr R. Cory of Brinkley had received several offers for its
purchase from people wishing to convert it into a house-boat. The hatches were not
perfect but it could easily have been repaired. There was a considerable ‘bash’ in
the bow as a result of an accident on its last trip when carrying sugar beet. It
had sunk because of heavy rain, strong winds and a lack of interest and attention.
A half-hearted attempt had made to raise it at the worst possible time. The barge
is at present a total wreck outside the Norris Museum

c.26.3

1928

The proposed Twentypence Ferry Bridge would cost £8,000 and the road £9,300. The
Government Road Board would give 75% and the chief landowners £1,500. Then there
was the road from the church to the Jolly Waterman which would have to be brought
up to second-class standard. It might seem a large amount but it would relive some
of the traffic from the Ely to Cambridge road. But was the District Council wise in
incurring a debt of £2,000 when in six months time they might cease to be a road
authority as the County Council was going to take over all the roads.

1903

Those who knew the jaunty master of the Moat Farm would hardly recognise him in the
haggard and dim-eyed man lying under sentence of death in Chelmsford gaol. He has
changed vastly since the day he was arrested at the Bank of England. He has lost
the sprightly step and the easy manner which made him so fascinating to many women.
Yet he has never lost his nerve. Though sullen and morose, he is absolutely
indifferent to his end. He knows his doom and is prepared to meet it without
flinging.

Friday 4th July

1978

A campaign to improve safety along the A604 has been turned down because of
Government red-tape. The County wants all lorries for Harwich to be routed around
Newmarket and Bury bypasses to Colchester instead of passing through Cambridge city
centre and out along narrow winding roads to Linton and Haverhill. But despite the
opening this autumn of the Northern By-pass designed to take heavy lorry traffic
away from Cambridge, the Department of Transport is insisting that traffic for
Harwich is still routed through the city. The road has already claimed four victims
this year in Cambridgeshire and another seven in Essex

1953

Many people know something of the good work done by the ‘Food Flying Squads’ known
as the ‘Queen’s Messengers’ during the last war. But these convoys must be ready to
go anywhere where an emergency has arisen and W.V.S. members must be trained. Thus
providing the mid-day meal for youngsters at Cherry Hinton Day Nursery provided
practical experience for the crew of the convoy maintained at Cambridge. They
provided minced meat, potatoes and cabbage, followed by rhubarb pastry and custard
for the 60 under-fives which was cooked on Soyer-boilers.

c.45.8
1928

The quay at Littleport was becoming considerably worse. It had been erected about
30 years ago by the officers of the South Level Commissioners but they could not
ascertain whether they paid or whether someone else provided the money. Mr Martin
had spoken to representatives of the Ely Sugar Beet Factory, who used the quay, and
they would be prepared to contribute. If the quay tumbled in it would block up the
river. If it was their property they were bound to maintain it. But they did not
know if it was their property or not.

1903

Once again a large crowd was attracted to the now historical Moat Farm for the sale
of the whole of the live and dead farming stock as used by the man who (unless a
reprieve is granted), will in a few days be the principal actor in the last act of
a drama inseparably connected with the lonely grange. Vehicles of every
description, brakes from Saffron Walden and motors from longer distances, brought
crowds of people, some intending to purchase, others merely curious to watch the
sale, with an intent ear to the prices realised. Everybody wondered who would be
the purchaser of the trap in which the murderer took his victim for her last drive
in May 1899. The prices realised were not so large as had been expected.

Monday 7th July

1978

The Kite area of Cambridge plans to go the way of Rhodesia by declaring UDI –
Unilateral Declaration of Independence - in a semi-serious but symbolic stand
against the city council. On Independence Day the kite-shaped bounds of the area
will be beaten and the rebel “government” will swing into operation. Arthur Sutton,
the 76-year-old bugle-blowing campaigner will be elected Lord Mayor, the rubble-
surrounded Little Kettle shop will be declared the town hall, the borders of the
area will be marked and passports issued.

1953

Racegoers at several local meetings have noticed a film unit hard at work. Ealing
Studios are ‘covering’ the meetings to obtain background shots for the next Michael
Balcon production, tentatively titled ‘Newmarket Heath’. The film itself will go
into production in August with much of the location work taking place at Newmarket.
The only casting so far announced is that of the noted actor Edward Underdown, who
will be seen as a trainer. John Hislop, the well-known amateur rider and racing
correspondent is working on the picture as adviser.

1928
Fire destroyed two thatched cottages which stood by themselves in an orchard in
Springhill at Widdington. Being of thatch, lath and plaster they quickly succumbed
once the flames obtained a hold. One, known as ‘The Nest’ was occupied by Miss
Pitcher, a school teacher who was away at the time. The tenants of the other
cottage were sitting down to dinner when Mr Hanchett, a roadman, came to the door
and said ‘Madam, your house is on fire’. The cottagers carried their goods and
chattels to the safety of an adjoining field. Standing amidst the remains of their
earthly possessions, they made a pathetic picture as they watched their old home
crumbling away.

1903
A conference on Passive Resistance heard that Nonconformists were now called upon
to pay directly out of the rates for Prayer Book and Catechism teaching in schools.
This would lead inevitably towards the Church of Rome & they ought not to be called
upon thus to aid teaching that their dearest convictions and cherished beliefs
thought false. They would be met with passive resistance upon the other side and
this would give rise to a regular ‘see-saw’ of non-payment of the education rates.

Tuesday 8th July

1978

The Huntingdon homes on the Oxmoor estate shattered by a jet crash which killed
five people are to be rebuilt, more than a year after the accident. The long wait
has been caused by sorting out details of compensation and insurance payments.
Seven homes that were so badly damaged that they had to be demolished will be
rebuilt. The announcement came as residents living opposite the site were about to
begin a petition demanding action. One said: “It is horrible. We want to forget but
we cannot because it is there all the time reminding us.”

1953

“Downing College now stands essentially complete” remarked the Lord Chancellor,
when he opened the new Greystone buildings. Remarking on the generosity of the many
benefactors, he said it was only recently due to the bounty of Sidney Greystone
that it was possible to complete the wing and chapel now opened. They were still
left with a gap but all that was needed to raise £24,000 was for 1,200 Downing men
to contribute one shilling a week under covenant for seven years. Otherwise the
college would have to dip into its capital, which was already perilously small.

c.44.5

1928

There appears to be every prospect of the ‘siege’ of Bridge Street being the
quickest job of its size and character carried through by Cambridge Corporation for
many years. The tradespeople whose business is greatly affected by the stoppage of
traffic are in agreement as to the magnificent way the men on the job are working
under the constant supervision of the Highways Inspector, Mr J. Gambling. There are
between 100 and 150 men working in three gangs and already the big sewer is laid
and ‘Speed with efficiency’ appears to be their slogan

1903

A meeting of Nonconformists to protest against the Education Act was held in Mr

Goat’s field at Prickwillow. The vicar, Rev C.D. Kingdon, who had ridden into the
field on a horse, was asked to take some active part in the meeting but replied
that he ‘did not take part in politics’. The Rev J.A. Cheesman said he was a
Constitutionalist from the crown of his head to the sole of his foot; they could
imprison him, take his goods and destroy his body but they would not compel him to
be disloyal to his conscience. The Nonconformists of that village would be pleased
to receive in their schoolroom between 9 and 9.30 in the morning any children whose
parents would like them to profit by good, sound unsectarian teaching.

Wednesday 9th July

1978
Coleridge School, Cambridge, had more than its fair share of titled visitors when
two queens and a baroness graced its summer fair. Baroness David of Romsey was
amongst the guests and 14-year-old Deborah Clarke was chosen as the winner of the
Miss Coleridge beauty contest. The retiring queen, Kathryn Turner, handed over the
sash to her successor. About 1,000 people turned up for the event, which also
included an “It’s a Knockout” contest. The new headmaster, Mr Hugh Wood, made the
draw for the raffle.

1953

Cambridge Labour Party view with alarm the proposal to grant the tenancy of a
Council house to the priest-in-charge at Cherry Hinton who had taken precedence
over 5,000 others on the waiting list. New Council houses were allotted to those in
housing need who had been waiting longest for them but this was given to a complete
stranger. The church had asked to buy a Council house for the priest but had been
told they were only sold to sitting tenants. The priest was to be given a privilege
that was denied to the very people he was supposed to be looking after and it could
hardly help him in his work. People will complain that the way to get a house
quickly was to join the church and jump the queue.

1928

A verdict of accidental death was returned at the inquest into the Rev Henry
Atkinson, vicar of Wilburton who died from the effects of injuries received in a
collision with a motor car. The Vicar was accustomed to riding a bicycle and was
going to fetch some hymn books for a Guild meeting. The driver said he saw a man on
a bicycle with a leather Gladstone bag on the handlebars; he seemed to lose control
and it went across in front of him. The jury expressed the opinion that a high
hedge which obscured the view near the entrance to the Vicarage drive should be cut
down to a reasonable height.

1902

June 20th seems to have been rather a ‘high day’ with a certain section of the
inhabitants of Waterbeach. P.C. Greygoose said he saw a chimneysweep and three lads
walking up and down the street rattling tin cans and kettles and making all the
noise they could. He asked him to desist but the man replied ‘That’s all right, old
mate, we are only going to give them a tune or two” and continued playing an
instrument something like a tea tray which he hit with a bit of a stick. There was
a crowd of about 200 persons round. The chimneysweep, who was deaf, stated he did
not hear the constable tell him to go away. He was the boss of the band and was
fined 5s.

Thursday 10th July

1978

Mr Bob Webster who has run the general stores at Station Road, Impington for 21
years has announced his retirement. The shop used to be a baker’s, then a grocer’s
before he bought it & since then it has tripled in size. “I will miss everyone, my
customers have been very loyal”, he said. The new owner is Mr Graham Vialls.

1953
The pressure of 200 people waiting outside Rose’s Fashion Centre in Sussex Street,
Cambridge broke one of the shop windows. The sale was a real family affair, the
husbands standing for the wives from the early hours until the woman of the family
herself arrived to try and grab some of the bargains. There were four gabardine
suits reduced from seven guineas (£7.35) to 15s (75p) and a grey Melange coat at £1
(original price £8.8s.) Many bargain hunters have been reaping the reward of the
disastrous summer weather. At Tobin’s of Mill Road they were clearing summer frocks
for 10s (50p) which originally cost up to five times as much.

1928

The Clerk of Swavesey District Council read an anonymous letter expressing surprise
that Swavesey was more highly rated than any other parish in the district. The
Chairman said that it was a very expensive parish and if ratepayers were not
satisfied with the efforts of the Council to keep the place in a sanitary condition
they would have to get a qualified man able to drain the fens and who would be an
additional expense. The statements were misleading and Council should take no
notice of what they saw in the papers. If every little thing going on was reported
they had better say nothing.

1903

Cambridge is becoming an uncongenial place for the purveyor of pirated music. The
latest of several seizures took place at the instigation of Messrs Bedwell, music
dealers of St Mary’s Passage. A member of the firm, with the assistance of police,
examined a stock of music being sold by several hawkers on Market Hill. About 80
copies of well-known songs and some of Sousa’s marches were found among the stock
being sold cheaper than authorised charges for music produced by the holders of the
copyright. They were promptly confiscated and taken to the police station. The
hawkers were agents of a huge and craftily constituted organisation that exists for
the distribution over the country of music of this description.

c.69

Friday 11th July

1978

Hundreds of people on Jesus Green Cambridge saw stars of television, stage and the
music world in the heats of the Thames Television Star Games contest. Broadcaster
Cliff Michelmore suffered a calf muscle injury which will put him out of sporting
action for four weeks and singer-song writer Jackie Trent was among the others who
limped off after the finals. But though the stars are probably more used to flexing
their artistic muscles rather than their mainly lily-white limbs, they came through
the day with cheers and about £10,000 for charity. The crowds saw singer Joe Brown
lead his team to victory; Dickie Henderson’s team were second.

1953

If a vital target in Cambridge, such as the gasworks, received a direct hit during
an enemy air attack, the Civil Defence Experimental Mobile Rescue Columns would
swing into action. It has its own kitchen and communications system, including
wireless and telephones and is equipped to deal with any emergency. It consists of
150 men split into 15 rescue parties, each having an up-to-date rescue vehicle.
Their visit was only an overnight halt but many members of the public were
attracted to the scene and it was obvious they had not expected to see such up-to-
date equipment and quiet efficiency.

c.45.8
1928

Close to the windmill on the north side of Milton Road, opposite Chesterton Hall
Crescent, occupying one of the highest and healthiest sites in the locality and
surrounded by spacious lawns and trim walks stands the new open-air school for
defective and sub-normal children. It is an ideal school, admirably adapted to its
purpose and planned and equipped on a generous scale, a veritable children’s
paradise. The opening ceremony was an open-air function. Open air schools for
delicate children have come to stay and in the future all schools will probably
become open-air

c.36.5

1903

Local sportsmen will be sorry to hear that the provisional committee of the
proposed Cambridge Town Football Club have been unsuccessful in securing a ground
for the coming season. The ground near the Cattle Market belonging to the
Corporation was not available and negotiations were entered into for a ground at
the corner of Milton Road. Mrs Gurney, the owner, has not been able to see her way
to allow its use as it is too close to her private garden. She offered a ground
near Dant’s Ferry but the preparation would cost about £100 for draining and was
out of the question.

c.38 : football

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 14th July

1978

King’s Hedges junior and infants’ schools in Cambridge have closed because of a
dysentery outbreak, three weeks after the first pupils went down with the disease.
The number of children being kept at home has been rising daily – over 120 children
and staff absent yesterday – and it is obvious they can no longer function
normally. They may never know where the infection came from, with a changing number
of children with the symptoms. If there is just one case in the school the very
number of people using the building means it is likely to be passed on repeatedly

c.21.1

1953

Chesterton and Coleridge schools may adopt a two-shift system operating from 8.30-
1.30 and 1.30-6.30 pm as means of relieving difficulties arising from the large
number on the school rolls with 553 boys and 450 girls at Chesterton and 562 boys
and 540 girls at Coleridge. It would not adversely affect the character of the
schools, as all pupils would have normal facilities for the use of laboratories and
practical rooms. But there were social consequences which would create
difficulties. The schools should make full use of hall and dining rooms for
teaching purposes and hire additional accommodation.

1923
1,700 women members of the West Ham Central Mission Women’s Meeting descended upon
Cambridge on their annual outing. The huge party arrived in 56 motor coaches which
drew up in a long line in Queen’s Road. In a solid mass they came over King’s
Bridge like an army of Amazons on the march, some expressing disappointment that
the Cam was not as wide as the Thames. But as they entered the cool sanctuary of
the chapel there was a continuous stream of enthusiastic remarks. The chairs were
quickly occupied with mothers with their babies. We doubt there was ever such a
scene in the historic chapel before.

1903

The light-fingered gentry were very busy at the Moat Farm sale and an aged farmer
from Trumpington had his pocket picked and a purse containing £20 stolen. The
horse, trap and harness so closely associated with the murder, which fetched such
good prices, were purchased for exhibition purposes. After the sale the trap had to
be placed under the protection of the police to save it from the ravages of memento
hunters. The number of people who visited the farm was upwards of 3,000.

Tuesday 15th July

1978

Sightseers flocked to the dysentery-hit King’s Hedges schools in Cambridge during

the three week outbreak; they sat outside in their cars with the windows closed and
pointed at it as if to say ‘That is the unclean school’. The school caretaker and
ancillary staff were publicly shunned in shops and pubs during the epidemic which
hit nearly 100 people and closed the school. Coun Janet Jones praised the teachers:
“They have been absolutely superb, and so have a lot of parents who kept their
children at the school. And so have the kids”, she said.

1953

Building operations are in progress to modernise the garages at the Hills Road
depot of the Eastern Counties Omnibus Company and give appreciable increase in
accommodation. A modern canteen and new offices and cycle racks are to be
constructed. With commendable optimism, the Company are demolishing a bomb shelter
which was installed during the war. Luckily it was never put to the test, but
workmen are finding it a difficult assignment – an indication of the strength and
protection it would have afforded. At present only one third of the garage space
can be used. Buses which are now without a home are being parked in railway sidings
nearby.

c.26.46

1928

The Henny Farm, near Ely, was offered for sale by auction. Described as ‘one of the
best farms in the Ely district’ it has the advantage of being close to the Ely and
Soham railway, adjoining Barway siding. It has an excellent house and homestead,
five cottages, main water and a hard road through the farm. It was bought by
auction in 1904 for £13,000 and a considerable sum has been spent on improvements.
Seven years ago it would have made £20,000 at least. But the opening bid was £5,000
and it failed to reach the reserve price of £9,000 – under £20 an acre.

1903

Two little children surreptitiously obtained some matches and amused themselves
with creating miniature fires with shavings in a shed at the rear of 57, Ainsworth
Street, Cambridge, occupied by Mr John Horobin, sweet manufacturer. The woodwork of
the shed became ignited and there was every prospect of the fire spreading to
neighbouring buildings. The Central Fire Station was communicated with through the
Norfolk Street fire alarm and P.C. Savage promptly ran out the Hooper Street reel
but there was no chance of saving the shed

Wednesday 16th July

1978

Huntingdon District Council staff have been called in to carry out emergency work
to make safe the historic Chinese bridge at Godmanchester after claims that
children could fall through holes & drown. For months the Council has been in
dispute with the County Council over who should repair the bridge. Now they have
started taking legal procedures which might end with them taking the County to
court over the condition of the bridge, as they are the highways authority who
should repair it.

1953

Cambridge housewives are taking advantage of the opportunity of buying any surplus
meat which is being sold off the ration and most local butchers have found
themselves serving new customers not registered with them. Rump steak is much in
demand, but practically unobtainable. The additional meat available is having its
effect on the fish trade and fishmongers are experiencing a somewhat quiet time.
Consequently fish is both plentiful and reasonable. Good quality eating
gooseberries are two shillings per lb and as well as the abundance of home grown
soft fruits there are fresh arrivals from abroad including oranges from South
Africa and Brazil.

1928

Sir – everyone associates Cambridge with a stream of young life spending the
happiest and most fruitful years of their youth. But at the same time another
stream of men is seeking in Cambridge some ‘odd jobs’, something to provide a few
coppers. And does the crowd of the ‘upper ten’ realise the conditions under which
their unfortunate brothers spend their nights? In the casual ward at the workhouse
inmates are unable to get to sleep owing to the room swarming with mice, which
scamper up and down the floor and run over the men on the beds. Surely the
authorities could cleanse the room and eject the army of mice. How can such a
condition of things exist in a ‘seat of learning’ where the laws of health are
studied – Mary Higgs

c.32.9

1903

Samuel Dougal was hanged at Chelmsford gaol for the murder at Moat Farm.. He went
to his death serene and unconcerned; his iron will never failed him and he mounted
the scaffold with a light step and without a tremor. Never did a murderer meet his
doom with more composure. Before the bolt was drawn he admitted his guilt then the
trap-doors swung open with a loud crash and he disappeared into the pit. The rope
twisted violently for a moment, then all was still.

Thursday 17th July

1978
Service came out of the blue for a Cambridgeshire farmer with combine harvester
trouble. It dropped out of the sky in what is claimed to be the first regular air
service for farm machinery in distress. A Fenstanton farmer, Mr A. Behagg, uses
Ursus-Bizon machines, produced in Poland, and their East Anglian distributors have
introduced the ‘servicing by helicopter’ scheme in a bid to consolidate their
foothold in the valuable English market

1953

Seven months ago the Duke of Edinburgh opened the new wing of Cambridge University
Engineering Laboratory and stopped to examine equipment in the Heat Engines
Laboratory. It was an historic moment and yet not a single cameraman was there to
record it. Instead, unobtrusively sketching the scheme was a well-known artist, Mr
Terence Cuneo and now the painting has been unveiled in the entrance hall of the
new Baker Building. The engineers felt it was completely worthy of the great
occasion it recorded and when told that Mr Cuneo had been commissioned to paint the
official picture of the Coronation scene in Westminster Abbey this did not surprise
them.

1928

Thousands of people flocked into the old-world village of East Harling but there
was little chance of getting into the court room where men well-known in the racing
world were summoned to answer charges relating to cock fighting. They included
defendants from Newmarket and Swaffham Prior. A horsebox had been fitted up for the
fighting, with a red carpet on the floor and a ring of baize covered boards. Two
birds had been prepared, each armed with a pair of artificial spurs. The defence
said there was no case to answer. Cock fighting has been one of the oldest English
sports and there was a great deal of misconception about the cruelty. But it has
been prohibited by law since 1849.

1903

John Mott, farmer of Littleport, said he occupied 650 acres of the Dairy Houses
Farm. There were three droves adjoining his land, all running from Common-acre
drove. These belonged to the parish and he had to repair them himself & keep the
dykes cleaned out. There were 20 head of cattle on the drove which were feeding on
the grass of his dykes, the sides of which they were treading in and he meant to
keep them off his property. The cattle always had a boy with them and were turned
out on the public road and were allowed to go where they liked. The judge said Mott
was entitled to his injunction, though he was sorry to interfere with the use of
the droves which had been enjoyed for a considerable period. He gave a verdict for
nominal damages of one shilling

Friday 18th July

1978

The risk of flooding may become a more important consideration when councils decide
where houses can be built. Steps are also being taken to identify areas where the
risks are greatest so that a better warning system for householders can be
introduced. A gauge has already been installed at Gough Way, Cambridge, where the
Bin Brook overflowed and damaged 20 houses and Newnham Terrace and Riverside may be
flood proofed. It was suggested that the height the floodwater reached should be
marked on houses which were involved. People would then be aware of the threat and
could take their own measures.
1953

What should a motor-cyclist’s headgear be called – crash helmet, safety helmet or

skid-lid? Riders prefer ‘skid-lids’ because of the unhappy connotation of the word
‘crash’. Cambridge Centaur Motor-Cycle Club had spent an entire evening debating
the merits of the skid-lid. They should be complimented on the rapid way they have
set about sinking their pride and putting skid-lids on. A crash helmet would make a
splendid present for a young lady to give her young man and would help encourage
the use of this essential headgear.

1928

The New Theatre became a wireless studio and, with those present as the studio
audience, a variety concert was broadcast from Cambridge. It had all the features
with which listeners are so familiar, with exhilarating dance music, full-blooded
radio melodrama and the much-maligned talk. “Just a Broadcast” introduces Mr Sidney
Firman and his London Radio Dance Band. Cambridge wireless fans who have listened
to the band’s efforts over the ether will welcome the opportunity of seeing this
sketch which takes listeners to the other side of the microphone and purports to
show them what really does happen in a wireless studio. Mr Firman’s items are
announced through a dummy microphone in the approved radio style and the ‘effects’
in the wireless play are not the least amusing features of their turn.

1903

A few weeks ago we reported several cases of a disease which was at first stated to
be smallpox and afterwards chicken pox. The disease does not appear to have been
stamped out and there are no fewer than 50 cases. As to what the disease actually
is there seems to be some doubt, and a London expert in infectious diseases has the
outbreak under observation. He reached Cambridge this morning and was met by the
Chairman of the Public Health Committee, Dr J.H.C. Dalton.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 21st July

1978

A sophisticated version of rotten egg-throwing provided one of the highlights at

Saturday’s Tudor Fayre for those with certain views on the proposed Kite
development plans. Artist Mr Peter Fluck of Maids Causeway was commissioned by the
Kite Co-ordinating Council to draw an outsized head of Coun John Powley, the man
spearheading plans to build a large shopping complex. The picture was then
electrically wired up and served as a dartboard. Anyone hitting the ‘brain cell’
rang a bell. During the afternoon more than one Labour councillors was seen
surreptitiously to aim a dart at the target

1953

There should be nothing elaborate about a milk churn stand, but the majority leave
much to be desired. Stands badly sited, flimsy stands leaning drunkenly to one
side, stands with platform boards gone inviting a leg to go through, slimy
platforms as slippery as a skating rink. If churns have to be out when the sun is
well up some form of protection is necessary during the summer. Accessibility to
the farm vehicle and collecting lorry is important and it must be big enough. A 10-
gallon churn needs 14 inches square, and don’t forget to give the lorry driver some
standing room when he is handling it

1928

Most people in Cambridge have been affected by the closure of Bridge Street. Now it
has reopened and buses and other vehicles of various types are passing along the
greatly improved streets. Tradespeople whose business has been affected have taken
a page in the CDN to inform the public that the ‘Battle of Bridge Street’ is over
and to call attention to some of the goods in which they specialise.

1903

Dr Dalton has confirmed that the dangerous epidemic prevalent in Cambridge is

smallpox and there have been no less than three deaths from the disease. Nobody who
has been vaccinated recently had it but two unvaccinated children had the disease
badly. He must insist absolutely on isolation of every case, however mild. He had
ordered one tent which held 15 people – tents were very suitable at this time of
year – and must order sufficient to provide for every case which required isolation

c.21.1

Tuesday 22ndJuly

1978

Try to get National Health Service dentures in Cambridge and it may be difficult to
find a dentist willing to undertake the work. A minority of dentists are now doing
any NHS work that involves paying technicians’ fees. For the patient this can mean
the difference between finding the £20 statutory NHS charge for a full set of false
teeth or paying £60 or more for private dentures.

1953

The Minister of Agriculture was asked In Parliament why Adventurers Fen in Burwell,
which was derequisitioned last year, is to be handed back to the National Trust in
view of their expressed intention to flood it. How much public money has been spent
by the Agricultural Executive Committee and how did he justify making derelict good
agricultural land by flooding? He replied that the research work done at Wicken was
enormously important. The National Trust land covered about 280 acres and only 120
acres of the poorest and wettest land would be flooded

1928

The future of the Bell public house, Botolph Lane and the Plume and Feathers, Park
Street, Cambridge was considered by the Licensing Committee. The Bell was difficult
for police to supervise. It had no downstairs accommodation for the tenant and
meals had to be taken in the smoke room during closing hours. The renewal was
refused. The Plume and Feathers had little accommodation and was frequently
congested with a few customers. It had been done up and the yards had been covered
over. The trade had gone up and was better than the Maypole.

c.27.4

1903

On June 18th we informed the Cambridge public that a case of smallpox had appeared
in the town. The day following we were officially instructed that it was not of
smallpox at all, but of chicken pox, there was nothing like an epidemic and there
was no cause for alarm. Now the announcement that there have been three deaths from
smallpox is so astounding as to be almost incredible. Midsummer Fair has been held,
probably the best means of disseminating an infectious disease that could be
imagined, and no warnings issued to the public. A terrible scourge has been allowed
to run riot without check or hindrance and we are afraid that Cambridge is face to
face with a disastrous epidemic

c.21.1

Wednesday 23rd July

1978

Cambridge United Football Club’s plans to extend the Abbey Stadium to cope with the
big crowds expected for their debut into the Second Division were wrecked by a mix-
up in a council debate which one councillor described as ‘better than Monty
Python’. They had been asked to lease a part of Coldham’s Common so the club could
provide extra crowd accommodation, toilets and car parking, as well as a money-
raising skateboard park. But after a complicated procedural wrangle the scheme was
turned down with councillors claiming they had misunderstood what was happening.
Now an urgent round of talks with council lawyers is to try and salvage the plans

1953

Cambridge City Football Supporters Club members gathered to witness the opening of
their new headquarters. The Supporters Club was founded 25 years ago and several of
the original members were present, including R.J. Wadsworth, the first President.
The new building is constructed of brick and wood and decorated in blue and white,
with check curtains to match. It has a bar, committee room and other amenities
together with a canteen. In the main room hang photographs recalling the early days
of the club. Players’ wives and young ladies are welcome.

c.38 : football

1928

An important scheme for the making of a new road from Cottenham to Wilburton and
the erection of a bridge over the Old West River near Twentypence Ferry will come
before the County Council at their next meeting. They considered a petition from
inhabitants in Horningsea and Waterbeach that the council should take over
Clayhithe Bridge and abolish the tolls but are unable to recommend the purchase of
the bridge at present. It was only 11 ft 6 inches wide and could not be widened
without being rebuilt; it would only carry a vehicle of an axle load of eight tons
and the approach roads were difficult.

1903

The charge of sensationalism that has been urged against the CDN in consequence of
the stand we have taken in the epidemic of smallpox is entirely unfounded. We have
published nothing we have not ascertained to be true. No doubt a few tradesmen will
suffer but it would be a short-sighted policy to allow the outbreak to spread for
the immediate benefit of a limited number of people.

Thursday 24th July

1978
Cambridgeshire County Council is ‘giving away’ a 138-year-old thatched school at
Hemingford Abbots. The school, which catered for 25 pupils, has been closed as an
economy measure and because it was set up under a trust the building now returns to
the descendants of the persons who set it up, the Herbert family. It was a sad
moment for headmaster Mr Gordon Chambers as he said goodbye to the pupils, who will
now go to Hemingford Grey school. But the closure will give hours of pleasure to
other children for the school swimming pool is to be dismantled and taken to the
Wheatfields School in St Ives.

1953

Cambridge City Councillors recommended the partial demolition of the Conduit Head
in Market Square. Due to inherent defects and deterioration much of the stone has
given way or has fractured. Rebuilding would cost some £2,200. It could be
strengthened with steel rods or demolished to the level of the granite plinth. The
Conduit was erected in 1855 at a cost of £554. The steps, plinth and base are
granite and the structure itself of Ancaster stone

c.24.2

1928

Ely Urban Council considered the advisability of obtaining a motor ambulance. Cases
were frequently happening where a person was ordered off to the Hospital at once.
Last week frantic efforts were made to find an ambulance but the only vehicle that
might be termed an ambulance was being used at a funeral and they had to telephone
to Cambridge for one. This was a standing disgrace to Ely. Their friends at March
had purchased a first-class ambulance for £880 and Soham had one.

1903

Smallpox Scare. The Stetchworth Dairies beg to inform our numerous patrons that the
utmost precaution is being taken to protect them during the prevailing epidemics,
the Dairies being under strict medical supervision. The working staff are being
vaccinated. Eucalyptus Soap, specially manufactured by the Castle Soap Company,
Castle Works, Cambridge, is one of the surest means to prevent contagion. Petrol
Preparations keep off infection; order through your chemist or apply to Petrol,
Limited, Union Road, Cambridge. - Adverts

Friday 25th July

1978

The Kite, Cambridge’s own infant breakaway state, gave a further demonstration of
the ‘freedom’ when a colourful procession beat the bounds of the two-day-old
‘city’. Led by the self-proclaimed ‘Lord Mayor’, Arthur Sutton, resplendent in red
robes and riding in a carriage, some 80 citizens of the Kite, accompanied by a jazz
combo, wound their way to Midsummer Common where a ‘Freedom Kite’ was symbolically
flown. The demonstrators were ignored by their main opponents, the controlling
Conservative group, who are proposing to re-develop the run-down area, demolishing
parts in the process.

1953

Pest Control’s scheme of re-development at Harston which includes an administration

block, extensions to the chemical and engineering stores and a drum-filling
establishment, has been allowed by the Minister of Housing and Local Government. It
will enable them to rebuild the factory as appropriate to a scientific industry
located close to Cambridge, with contemporary architecture & give their hard-
working workpeople and staff in the chemical works the facilities and amenities
they deserve

1928

Cambridge councillors recommended Robinson Crusoe Island should be cleared of

dilapidated buildings and overgrown trees. Two rustic footbridges should be thrown
across the stream and the island let for use either as a tea garden or for
boatsheds. The place was in a deplorable condition and if something were not done
there would be no Island to discuss. The surface was low and if the river were at
the ordinary level it would be under water. It should be turned into a beauty spot
rather than the dirt spot it was at the moment.

c.46.5

1903

Since the outbreak of smallpox in Cambridge was official announced there has been a
large increase in the number of cases reported. Unfortunately the infection has
spread to surrounding villages and a case has broken out at Histon. This has
resulted in the abandonment of the Histon Show and Sports, the Waterbeach Show has
been postponed, the Promenade Concert on Christ’s Pieces cancelled, schools have
been closed and the Barnwell Theatre Mission have suspended operations. Wherever
crowds assemble in a town where smallpox is prevalent there is danger of infection.

c.21.1

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 28th July

1978

Mother and test-tube baby are doing fine – thanks in part to the Cambridge
physiologist, Dr Robert Edwards who has helped pioneer research into laboratory
fertilisation. It was his work with a consultant gynaecologist, Mr Patrick Steptoe,
which culminated in the world’s first test-tube baby born to Mrs Lesley Brown in
Oldham General Hospital. The birth, the result of 12 years scientific work and
experiments, was hailed as a tremendous achievement and a wonderful breakthrough.

1953

Cambridge City Council debated whether a council house in Cherry Hinton was
suitable for a Baptist minister. At their previous meeting they agreed to allow an
Anglican minister to occupy a council house. “But there are at least 20 recognised
religious denominations in Cambridge and we are opening the door rather wide”, said
Ald Mrs Rackham. It was most undesirable that a man should seek for himself
privileges which were denied the people he was to serve and it would create a sense
of injustice amongst people on the waiting list. But the application had come from
a group of people who already had a church and were now anxious to have a minister
1928

The inhabitants of Barton evidently believe in the slogan ‘Unity is strength’ for
practically all of the organisation in the village amalgamated and held a flower
show and fete. No fewer than ten groups took part, representing all types of
village life, including the W.I., Nursing Association, quoits, football and cricket
clubs, boy scouts and the Institute for the Blind. Pilbeam’s Band was in attendance
and provided an enjoyable programme of music

1903

A milliner carrying on business in Regent Street, Cambridge was summonsed under the
Factory Acts. When an Inspector visited the workshop the occupier, who could only
legally have ten people in the room because of the size, had as a matter of fact
employed 11. She told one, Hilda Redding, to go out of the work-room, to prevent
the Inspector from seeing there were more present than there ought to have been.
The case was as bad as it could be. A fine of £1 was imposed.

Tuesday 29th July

1978

Great Chishill’s hopes of another best-kept-village prize were raised by the sale
of the dilapidated village school. The picturesque village last took the
competition title in 1970, the year before the Victorian school was closed and 22
children transferred to Fowlmere. Legal problems have delayed the sale and the
building has deteriorated. Now it has been sold by auction for £19,000 to a family
who intend converting it into a house

1953

Chesterton RDC opened their new £15,000 store and depot, part of a 15-acre
Oakington Estate scheme. There is a site for housing, a recreation ground, a site
for a village hall and one for a burial ground for the parish. Three tiers of local
government had contributed to it but there had been a lot of objections from
Whitehall. It was an extraordinary attitude and one that was quite deplorable. The
new building was of considerable architectural merit; it was by no means a horror

1928

Burwell Parish Council called attention to the need of a shorter route between
Burwell and Wicken now that Dimock’s Cote bridge had been opened to traffic.
Although the villages were only two miles apart the present distance by road was 8½
miles. This could be remedied by the hardening of the first droveway and making 30
chains of a new road. It would reduce the distance for all traffic that had to pass
via Fordham and Stretham and be a great saving of time and expense to road users
which would pay for itself by lessening the mileage of road used

1903

Hardwick is a hamlet possessing much rustic beauty but at present relations between
the inhabitants and the Rector are rather strained. Some boys heard distressing
cries from the Rectory and rumours spread. The inhabitants came down in force, only
those too old to take part in the hazardous proceedings of attacking the citadel
failed to put in an appearance. Most had secured kettles, trays and tin cans which
they beat vigorously. When the Rector refused to parley abusive language was freely
used and several Cambridge men driving through the village stopped and offered to
drive off the crowd by force. In fact the cries came from a boy from a charitable
institute employed to do light work who was upset because he could not go out as
his nether garments were being repaired.

Wednesday 30th July

1978

The Turk’s Head, one of the largest eating places in central Cambridge, has served
its last meals and drinks. Many of the 30 staff hope to be given the first chance
in the project to turn the Plough and Harrow public house in Madingley Road into a
restaurant. The Turk’s Head opened in the 1960s as a restaurant where a range of
inexpensive meals could be had across a wide price band but it was too close to
another Berni Steak Bar around the corner in Rose Crescent. Now there are plans to
turn it into two smaller restaurants together with a ‘mini Burlington Arcade’ with
some 11 shops aimed at tourists.

c.27.4

1953

Cambridge Police have issued a warning that it is essential in the public interest
that there be strict compliance with the order prohibiting vehicles whose weight
exceeds two tons from using Silver Street Bridge. They particularly seek the co-
operation of road users making deliveries to premises in Silver Street and suggest
that whenever possible light vans only should be used. Failure to observe the Order
renders the person concerned liable to prosecution.

1928

A great cosmopolitan army has invaded and captured Cambridge. It is no new thing
this descent by the legions from overseas but probably never before have they been
drawn from so many nations or corners of the world. The ‘Backs’ heard such a
murmuring of strange tongues as would have puzzled the most expert linguist. One
reason was the International Geographical Congress attended by members of fifty
nations, but ever since the ‘Long Vac’ started foreign visitors have poured into
Cambridge, nearly all armed with cameras and a determination not to miss anything.
They saw the river girl – and her flannelled companion – brought out by the heat
wave; she was there at the punt pole with her light bright frock, so cool, so self-
possessed and efficient, and even in this heat – no shiny noses.

c.46.45

1903

Sir – Being engaged in preparing a list of the Cambridgeshire mammals for the
Victoria County History I should be very grateful for any local specimens of mice
or bats, or notes relating to the mammalia of the district. Specimens may be left
with Mr W. Farren, Regent Street, Cambridge – J. Lewis Bonhote, Ditton Hall.

Thursday 31st July

1978

Laura Ashley, one of the fastest rising fashion and fabric business in the world is
coming to Cambridge. They are taking over the ground floor of what was the Turk’s
Head restaurant. The rest will become separate eating areas. The Granary in the
cellar will offer international cuisine, the first floor restaurant will be based
on English cuisine and the Pasta Kitchen on the top floor will feature an a la
carte menu. It will be one of the few English businesses to offer hot foods late
at night in Cambridge.

c.27.2

1953

South Cambs RDC agreed to borrow £310,360 needed for a comprehensive water scheme
designed to supply 17 parishes. At present the east area receives its piped water
from Linton and the western area from the village of Croydon. The problem was to
find a means of supplying the villages in the centre where eleven of the parishes
including Barrington, Duxford, Fowlmere, Foxton, Shepreth and Whittlesford have no
piped water at all. A bore was sunk at Dottrell Hall, near Fowlmere, and they were
rewarded with a source which will yield a million gallons a day.

1928

Members of the Cambridge Drawing Society made a strong plea for the preservation of
the character of the King’s Mill site, protesting against the Council’s scheme for
the demolition of the old Mill-race and the erection of a weir. They are thankful
that proposals for a tea garden and rustic bridge were not passed but feel its
unique character will be utterly destroyed. The two King’s and Bishop’s Mills were
amongst the oldest things in Cambridge, and a monument of romance. A cascade was
all very well for Bedford or Tooting but was out of keeping with the spirit of
Cambridge.
c.46.5

1903

Sir – a stream of water fed by Hobson’s aqueduct flows down each side of
Trumpington Street, Cambridge but when we have a thunder shower the road is flooded
from side to side. I have just had to change the whole of my clothes after being
out in the pouring rain wading nearly up to my knees in water trying to get the
grates up to let the water down. But it only comes up the drains in cellars all
around and takes the householder in the rear while he is battling with the floods
outside. Twice in the last six years our cellar kitchen has been full of foul water
up to the ceiling, leaving behind an unwholesome smell for months – B.A.

Friday 1st August

1978

There are many sides to a new house at Great Gransden – eight in fact. Which has
left villagers wondering why on earth anyone should want to pay money for an
outsized threepenny bit. Murmurs of ‘Monstrosity’ and ‘Shouldn’t be allowed’ were
on the lips of environmentalists as the unusual house in West Street took shape.
But the owner defends it: “I think it is in keeping, although it is in a
conspicuous position amongst a lot of thatched and old-made tiled houses”, he said.

1953

All work at the Pye Factory ended early and the employees dined off sandwich
instead of their customary hot meal as they crammed into the works canteen for a
visit of the BBC “Workers’ Playtime” broadcast. The entertainment featured the
close-harmony quintet ‘The Coronets’, Lionel Saxon, ‘genial host of the Winkle
Club’, who put plenty of energy into his comic impersonations & Monica Owen with
her intimate songs. The broadcast ended with Beryl Reid, who was greeted with
shrieks of laughter when she appeared in black stockings and green gym tunic with
her handkerchief tucked away in the traditional schoolgirl place for her caricature
of Monica, the awful child.

1928

Ely readers will learn with regret of the death of Mrs Elizabeth Cross, widow of
the late Mr F.T. Cross of Forehill. She was born at Little Downham but for over 40
years had carried on the confectionery and bakery business at Ye Olde Tea Rooms,
Ely and also at the Pem Café, Trumpington Street, Cambridge during the last two
years. Of a kindly disposition she will be missed for her generosity to the aged
residents of the almshouses who for many years have received a large hamper of
delicacies at Christmas. She leaves at son, Mr Vernon Cross, and a daughter.

1903

Sir - An exciting scene occurred at 11.30 pm when the small-pox hearse was just
reaching its destination and turning round previous to receiving the body of a
young man who had died that morning. The night was very dark and the hearse
overturned on its side, the smashing of glass and the bumping of the vehicle on the
road causing a great commotion. After some delay it was righted again, the body
duly deposited inside and it rumbled and groaned off to the cemetery, grating on
the road with its iron-shod wheels in the dead of the night in a most unpleasant
manner. Any private firm would have an india-rubber tyred vehicle for such work but
Cambridge Corporation have apparently yet to discover that such ‘luxuries’ exist –
‘Mill Road’

c.21.1

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 4th August

1978

The star that has shone over Cambridge Folk Festival of the past 14 years appears
to be waning. There is increasing evidence among the mass of faces at this
international event that the serious folkie is now staying away and that Cambridge
– once the most prestigious event in the folk calendar – is slowly being taken over
by an unfortunate yobby element who treat Cherry Hinton Hall like a Pontins holiday
camp

c.69

1953

A Pageant for Coronation year is to be performed in the grounds of St John’s

College in aid of the Cambridge Residential Home for Old People. In this enterprise
Town and University combine. About 150 people take part from a distinguished
historian to a little girl of six. It includes a genuine ancient broadsword lent by
Prof G.M. Trevelyan, Master of Trinity and greatest of living historians. Amongst
those taking part are Michael Cogman, a nine-year-old pupil from Milton Road
School, Charles Batts, Timothy Roach and David Bartlett.

c.76
1928

Sir – the north end of Robinson Crusoe’s island, Coe Fen, is occupied as a
boatyard, the oldest centre for boating for the Freshers’ river and a very charming
spot. The southern end is occupied by the old ferryman’s cottage and his garden,
now derelict, but there are still standing upon it a large dilapidated greenhouse,
a poultry yard, now deserted, and a neglected summer-house with a privet hedge.
There are a dozen fruit trees, now dying because their feet are in the water, and a
number of rose bushes. The neglect of the garden is due to a subsidence which
allowed the river to flood it and turn it into a marsh. The cottage, before the
iron bridge was built, was a licensed house and those who liked to refresh
themselves with a glass of beer were ferried across the river free of charge – C.F.
Clay

c.46.5

1903

Cambridge Commercial Traveller’s Association submitted a petition to the Great

Eastern Railway Company praying for an improved service. The want of a train
between Cambridge and London which would permit business men to reach the City
before 10 am is very badly felt and there is no return to Cambridge between 5.15
and 8.20 pm which causes great inconvenience. Such provision would render it
possible for gentlemen engaged in business in London to reside in Cambridge, which
at present is found impossible, owing to the absence of convenient trains. 03 07 30

Tuesday 5th August

1978

Renewed attempts will be made to have the annual Cambridge folk festival moved from
its traditional home in Cherry Hinton Hall grounds to the more spacious
surroundings of Coldham’s Common. They have been reinforced by the state of the
grounds after the heavy rain at this year’s event which have been terribly churned
up and it will take months for them to be reinstated. Last year councillors opposed
such a move fearing that people living on the Whitehill housing estate would be
subject to noise until late into the night.

1953

The Cambridge Mass Radiography Unit is to carry out a large-scale chest X-ray
survey during August. It will be the first such survey for the benefit of members
of the general public and aims to examine everyone over 14 years of age. X-raying
is the surest means of detecting the presence of T.B. in the lungs. It costs
nothing and is speedy – twenty persons being X-rayed every ten minutes – and is
confidential. And there is no undressing.

1928

After a long period of inactivity the Stretham Sports Committee was reformed about
six weeks ago and the outcome of their endeavours was a very successful show and
sports on the Recreation Ground. This was formerly one of the most popular held in
the vicinity and should all future events be as well arranged this enviable
position will be soon regained. There was not a dull moment in the whole of the
proceedings. The cycle events produced some keen tussles between S.G. Scott and W.
Johnson and in the running events R.G. King of Soham took the hundred by a close
margin.
1903

The County Council considered the implications of the Motor Car Bill, now before
the House of Lords, especially the section relating to the rate of speed, which was
now limited. That limit was to be altogether abolished and it would be legal to
drive at any pace that was not a public danger. They could apply to proscribe
certain areas in which the speed should not exceed 10 mph but there would have to
be an enquiry in each case and large notice boards would have to be erected at the
ends of these roads in order to inform persons going at the rate of about 60 mph
that their speed would have to be reduced. They would not object to a speed of 20
mph, although Ald Briscoe felt this was far too much and suggested it be 14 mph.

Wednesday 6th August

1978

Ray Malmstrom, has just retired after teaching at Impington Village College for 32
years. He started as an assistant teacher with responsibility for the arts and
within a fortnight had started a model aeroplane club, which is still going strong.
He taught art and must have coached about 4,000 pupils, many of whom have gone on
to art schools and training colleges and become teachers or have set up on their
own as graphic designers.

1953

A case of the “full-time” dentist who wants to do part-time work provided a lively
debate at the County Council. The School Dentist asked permission to apply for a
position at Addenbrooke's Hospital involving work on Saturday mornings and Monday
evenings. The School Dental Service has been looked upon as rather the Cinderella
of the profession, partly because of the salary involved and he had been granted
permission to take a number of private patients each week. It was already the
practice for school teachers to undertake part-time work. Ald Watts said: “We
can’t officially allow him to do it; but delete it from the agenda and then he will
do it. Lots of people do.”

1928

A thirty-ton stack on the farm of Mr R. Mailer at Boxworth caused considerably

anxiety when it caught fire. It stood in close proximity to a number of others and
to the buildings of what is one of the largest farms in the neighbourhood. The
whole stack had to be dragged to pieces with steel hawsers and traction engines
before the fire could be effectively dealt with. The firemen arrived about 4 am and
did not return to Cambridge until 7.35 pm. To add to their discomfort heavy rain
began to fall shortly after they arrived and continued throughout the greater part
of the day

1903

Three additional cases of smallpox have been notified in Cambridge. In a large

business house a young lady engaged in taking money became ill and the cause was
traced to the money received into the establishment. Some businesses are now
disinfecting coins as soon as they are received and none but disinfected coins are
given in change. At Foxton the horticultural show has been postponed owing to an
outbreak in the village.

c.21.1

Thursday 7th August

1978

The fate of one of Cambridge’s best-known family firms hang in the balance with
decision of Mr Horrie Mansfield to retire as senior partner of the Burwell and
District Motor Service after more than 50 years at the wheel. He has tried to
retire several times without success but now finds that running the company – and
doing frequent driving stints himself – is becoming a strain. Burwell, begun by his
father in 1921, has built up a reputation for reliability and efficiency. It
started with a motor-cycle and sidecar, then secured a taxi and its first 20-seat
bus van. Now it is a thriving company employing more than 20 people

1953

To the everyday passer-by the tall stately elm trees in Brooklands Avenue,
Cambridge, give the impression of being sound and sturdy. But some have now been
cut down and it can be seen that sections of their trunks are hollow! Six have been
taken down and there are a further 20 which have serious defects and decay. It was
in April 1950 that the City Council decided to remove all the trees and replant the
Avenue with new ones, but owing to public opinion the decision was reversed. If the
present disease continues it will not be many years before most of the common elm
trees in Cambridge have been removed.

c.18

1928
The quietude and peace of Sunday evening on the Vinery Road Recreation Ground,
Cambridge, was rudely broken when some half-dozen pigs from a neighbouring sty,
having burrowed beneath the dividing fence, burst violently on to the ground. At
once they started to uproot flowers, dig holes in beds and generally make a
nuisance of themselves. The custodian and several other men flung themselves on the
invaders but the wily porkers were too much for them and a game of catch-as-catch-
can over flowerbeds and paths, around clumps of perennials and bushes began. As if
by magic half the juvenile population of Romsey Town began to drift on to the
ground. After half an hour’s strenuous efforts the invaders were recaptured and
restored to their proper place and peace again reigned over the trampled beds and
broken bushes.

1903

Cambridge Borough has had its pride wounded by the London Express charging it with
having incurable slums and possessing filthier homes than Whitechapel. In reply Mr
Campkin, a Guardian said: “There is no doubt there is an amount of poverty and
squalor in Cambridge but there has been a vast improvement in the St Matthew’s
district over the last 40 years. There is evidence of the effects of drink in some
parts of the town but in the Romsey and Petersfield district the residents are
respectable working people”

c.32.9

Friday 8th August

1978

Considering the amount of rain that has fallen during the past few months, the
impossible has happened – Anglian Water Authority ‘lost’ part of the River Ouse
near St Ives. About a mile of the water between sluice gates at Hemingford and
Houghton simply drained away and left boats high and dry. There are two sets of
sluice gates which open and close automatically to control the river flow and they
were both open to cope with the increased flow caused by the rain. But a large tree
became stuck under one of the gates, preventing it from closing so the water flowed
away until there was nothing but a trickle on the river bed.

1953

Wimbish Hall, near Saffron Walden, was gutted by a sudden fire which had gained a
firm hold by the time fire-fighting units arrived. Firemen were kept busy
preventing the outbreak from spreading to the village church, which stood not more
than 50 yards away, but were powerless to confine the fire to one section of the
house. Helped by volunteers, the occupier spent the afternoon sorting out clothing
and other property rescued from the premises. In the front of the house piles of
charred, water-sodden magazines were jumbled up with partially-burnt furniture and
soaked carpets. All that was left of the Hall was part of one wing and the roofless
wall of the remainder.

1928

The verger of the parish church at Warboys found that six brass candlesticks and
six brass vases were missing from the altar. The candles had been removed and laid
on the Communion table. Entry had been obtained by prising open a leaded window at
the south end of the church. This is the second time within 14 months that this
church has been broken into.

1903

Commenting on the Cambridge slums Dr Roper said: “I think even the very worst are
fast becoming demolished; take St Peter’s Court, Castle Street, they are pulling
that down. In consequence that there are large families in the poor quarters a
woman very often has to go out and work as well as her husband to keep things
going, and they can’t keep their houses quite so clean as they otherwise might. In
New Street you will not see much dirt or dilapidation, though in summer time the
people are sitting outside nearly half-dressed in consequence of the heat. But
their homes are not so bad as you might imagine”.

c.32.9

Looking Back

Monday 11th August

1978

A leading churchman gave warning on the aims of the Moonies sect, which have been
operating from a terraced house in Norwich Street in Cambridge for the past six or
seven years. The Regius Professor of Divinity said the movement demanded total
commitment and obedience from the young people who joined & was not a Christian
organisation as it claimed to be. A Unification Church spokesman said the church
was far more representative of the living Christianity than many of the more
traditional denominations

c.83

1953

A tour of the extensive orchards of Messrs Eastwoods at Barrington was given by

Farm Manager, Mr A.S. Baker to demonstrate important operations in modern orchard
management such as pruning, soil-management and grassing-down. The visitors were
impressed by the very heavy crop of apples, plums and greengages and on the
improvements made on the fruit farm as a whole. At the end of the tour refreshments
were served in the new packing shed

1928

Rumours spread in incredibly short time to the effect that a Cambridge charabanc
had met with a serious accident in the neighbourhood of Hunstanton and that many of
the passengers – the numbers varied between 13 and 20 – had been killed and others
were injured. Mr A.G. Brown of Messrs Brown Bros, the Lord Astor Motor Coach
Company, had an anxious time as one of his charabancs had taken a party from
Papworth Everard to Hunstanton. “I would give a £5 note if I could find the man who
started the rumour”, he said. It was a cruel hoax and caused unnecessary anxiety to
very many people.

1903

Cambridge police are attempting to discover a man who, when he broke into a Hills
Road house, wore clothing of such inconsiderable value that he relinquished it
without hesitation, and emerged from the premises faultlessly attired. In all
probability he had his exit in a bue serge suit, walked in a pair of boots nearly
new and freshly cleaned, carried a couple of overcoats despite the month being
August, and had his pockets full of cigars.

Tuesday 12th August

1978

A major aircraft building job is being given to Marshalls of Cambridge by the

Ministry of Defence. It involves the stretching of the fuselages of 29 Hercules
aircraft to allow it to carry extra cargo. The conversion will be fitted into the
normal overhaul and serving work which the firm carries on. Sir Arthur Marshall
said: “At the moment we are on various major contracts for the Hercules –
replacement of wing centre sections and outer wings – as well as work on military
and civil aircraft from all over the world”.

c.27 : Marshall

1953

“Man in the dark”, the first feature-length three-dimensional film to be shown in

the Eastern counties was screened at the Rex Cinema, Cambridge, to an invited
audience. They went away feeling they had witness the most exciting event in screen
history since ‘The Jazz Singer’ introduced sound in 1927. Mr R. Halliwell, the
manager, said the extra charge for admission covered only the cost of hiring the
Polaroid spectacles. The three-dimensional film holds such possibilities of screen
terror that the deepies may tend at first to be creepies. To what extent Cambridge
will succumb to third-dimentia remains to be seen but the pre-view audience spent
an enjoyable time

c.76.9

1928

Cambridge has lost a popular and familiar figure by the death of Mr James ‘Jessie’
Collins. He had an intimate knowledge of the antecedents and lives of almost every
one of the inhabitants of ‘The Boro’ – the Castle End district - and was a
character quite of his own. For 40 years he was employed at St John’s College,
rising from the position of shoe black to deputy head porter. He will be buried
from St John’s College, which he has served so faithfully and so long and today he
lies in state in the college chapel – a fitting end to a remarkable life

c.44.5

1903

The slight put upon Cambridge by comparison of its slums with those of Whitechapel
continues to call forth indignant protests. “In many working class homes there is
only one room for doing everything and it is difficult to keep it scrupulously
clean. Poor people can be taught to cover their floors with oilcloth but where is
the money coming from? How can it be expected for them to spend all their earnings
on beautifying their homes when there is a family to be provided for? Need it be
said that the ‘better’ class people who be equally as dirty were it not for the
working people to keep them clean”

Wednesday 13th August

1978

A compromise has been reached on the route of the Soham by-pass which will soften
the impact on the county’s last surviving remnant of the manorial open field system
of agriculture. It will help protect the 80-acre Soham Green Hill site which is
scheduled as of special scientific interest. It is rich in flowers such as meadow
saxifrage, milkwort and five species of orchid and there are valuable old hedgerows
and small ponds

1953

At Turner and Hore’s Hyde Park Corner Service Station, Cambridge, people are
talking about a new member of staff who cheerfully stands for hours at a time
saluting passing motorists. Weather doesn’t worry him and he doesn’t even ask for
wages. This amazing character is a mechanical robot and ‘he’ only salutes when cars
pass by him on the road. How the robot works is the inventor’s secret but as soon
as a car approaches, the arm swings upwards smartly in a salute. The lucky
motorists who guess its name will receive a memento of the occasion.

1928

Ely fire brigade were engaged for nearly eight hours dealing with an outbreak at
Hinton Hall, Haddenham where a group of stacks containing about 40 tons of this
year’s hay was involved. As they were situated in the middle of a group of farm
buildings, the firemen had their work cut out. A good supply of water being
available from a pond the brigade played two lines of hose on the blaze and they
can be highly commended on their smart work

1903

Sir - many Cambridge homes are scrupulously clean but they hardly make up for the
dirty households. Some of the nice new houses in healthy parts of Cambridge are
rented to people who have not the faintest idea of housekeeping or common sense.
The really deserving people seldom get practical assistance, while the spendthrifts
dupe the ladies and gentlemen who take an interest in them; even the resident
clergy are sometimes taken in by these shrewd people – M.W.
Thursday 14th August

1978

A petrol tanker disaster was narrowly avoided when the vehicle, carrying a 6,000-
gallon load, caught fire on the A1 near St Neots. The driver pulled into a lay-by
near the Wait for the Wagon pub at Wyboston with a puncture and smouldering tyre
and then the wheel burst into flames. One of the first people on the scene was 15-
year-old Peter Thompson, son of the landlord: “It looked very dangerous. The driver
and his co-driver looked shocked and one of them ran across the A1 for help”, he
said. After the blaze was extinguished the men were given tea in the pub

1953

For over a century lettering stencilled in black reading ‘Henslow Common Informer’
was to be seen on the walls of Corpus Christi College. It was a reminder of a
violent political controversy over bribery in elections which took place in 1825.
Recently the face of the college was cleaned and in the process all trace of the
lettering was removed, but now it has reappeared – not in black but in white!

1928

Cambridge University has lost yet another distinguished son, by the death of Baron
von Hugel, founder of the University Catholic Association. In 1883 he was appointed
curator of the Museum of Archaeology, to which he had presented a unique collection
of Fiji war instruments. Then commenced a period of service which will never be
forgotten. He raised the money required for a new building and played a prominent
part in the collection of local antiques, carrying out extensive excavations at
Girton. During the War the Baron took charge of the Belgian refugees in Cambridge
and received a medal.

c.03

1903

Sir – whatever may be said about slums, in Whitchapel you could go into any house
in the poorest district but you would find a flushing cistern to every w.c., and
that is more than you can find in Cambridge. When we had the sewers put in the
Corporation tried to have the flushing cisterns put in but they were ruled out by
the objections of the large property owners. Until these matters are remedied we
shall always be in trouble, either with this epidemic of some other – Ratepayer

c.21.1

Friday 15th August

1978

Mr Len Warren, the self-styled King of Reach, stepped quietly into retirement- but
he went with a promise that eventually the village would have independence. “King
Len”, sporting regal shoulder-length hair left the University Faculty of Economics
where he has been caretaker for 16 years. He claims that in a Charter of 1201 King
John gave Reach – then a prosperous port – the status of kingdom for ever. Len
claimed the right to rule when he learned that the ruler, Count Allen was murdered
in 1349 and a successor never found. “Once it is recognised as an independent
kingdom I will give it back to the Queen”, he said.

1953
The first question asked by the pilot of the Meteor aircraft which crashed near
Bourn village was “Did it hit any houses? Was anyone hurt”. Wing Commander Leonard
Trent, V.C., had bailed out; many people saw the parachute and gave the alarm. The
plane plunged into the earth in a field and buried itself; fuel escaped and set
fire to the standing barley but farm workers beat it out with branches and sticks

1928

Sensational statements affecting the whole system of combating tuberculosis were

made by Dr P.C. Varrier-Jones, medical director of the Papworth Village Settlement.
The current system of dispensaries and sanatoria, where seriously damaged patients
are crowded together, waiting for a cure which never comes, supported by medicine
which prolong a pathetic and fruitless existence with nothing by failure at the end
of it, is founded upon a wrong reckoning, he said. There should be provision of
suitable employment under sheltered conditions, with facilities for treatment when
required.

1903

Sir – I have for some years called on an average upon 200 to 300 houses in
Cambridge weekly and can truthfully say that I consider the working classes clean
above the average, and for anyone to say that their houses were dirty is untrue.
The real cause of a great deal of illness is houses being shut up all day, when the
wives go out to work – too often to provide for a lazy husband, who sits in a
public house most of the day – A Scotchman
”

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 18th August

1978

People who live in Park Street have made a startling proposal which could solve
some of Cambridge’s housing problems at a stroke. They want to turn multi-storey
car parks into blocks of flats. They say there is a pressing need for more housing
in their area which could be met by converting the '‘obnoxious monster”. The
campaigners suggest the bleak concrete façade of the building could be covered with
climbing plants as part of the conversion. A City Council spokesman says it might
be possible, but the amount of reinforced concrete in the building would cause
condensation.

1953

Sir – I paid a visit recently to the new Egerton Estate, Cambridge & had occasion
to visit Fen Ditton along a footpath known as Ditton Walk, but which ought to be
named Ditton Cycling Track. I thought how dangerous it was for pedestrians, as one
had to be continually getting off the path into the grass to avoid being knocked
down. Such a practice would not be allowed here – A. Newman, Sheffield

1928

Mr J.M. Barr of Wisconsin, an American beekeeper of great repute was the guest at
the apiary established at Manor Farm, Lt Shelford. Several patterns of hives were
shown, including one of an American type and here Mr Barr, in trying to pick up a
bee from the alighting board received a sting. His host, Mr Clay had to apologise
for the unfriendly reception accorded to the distinguished foreigner. The company
then adjourned to tea in the garden room, a spacious verandah which just
accommodated the whole party of 30 people.

1903

Sir – Barnwell is not a “most miserable part of Cambridge” but a neighbourhood

inhabited by respectable working people; there are whole streets of bay-windowed
respectable residences occupied by shopmen, clerks etc who work in the centre of
the town. I will admit than on Newmarket Road, a district about a mile in length,
cursed by about twenty public houses, there are a few poor cottages, but chiefly
where the pubs are thickest – A Barnwell Tradesman

Tuesday 19th August

1978

The Black Horse at Dry Drayton has opened its doors again after a £30,000 facelift
and a year spent empty and derelict. The pub was bought from the brewers,
Whitbread, by 26-year old Paul Bowskill, who has installed a manager after spending
eight months restoring the building. Now a free house the pub supplies Greene King
real ale and hopes to get either Adnams or Ruddles in the future. By next week the
pub should also be serving bar meals.

1953

When the City of Cambridge Rowing Club holds its first open regatta for
generations, the least expected of the Clerk of the Weather was that he should keep
it dry. He cannot be a rowing man. But with 30 events completed at the rate of one
every ten minutes for five hours the sport was there both in plenty and variety

1928

A terrible accident, occurred at Shepreth when the 10 am express train from

Cambridge ran into a motor lorry at a level crossing, all the coaches being
wrecked. The train was derailed the fireman killed and the drivers of the train and
lorry seriously injured. The lorry, which was loaded with cement, was crossing the
East Anglian Cement Company’s level crossing at the same moment as the express was
approaching. There was a terrific impact. The cement on the lorry flew up in the
air so that to men at work at the station it seemed like the smoke of an explosion.
After the impact the petrol of the lorry was ignited and in a short time was a
blazing mass. The train continued for more than 100 yards, ploughing up the track,
the carriages toppling over into a neighbouring field.

1903

Sir – I believe a great number of antiquarians in Cambridge will learn with regret
that the Falcon Inn Yard in Petty Cury has been removed to make way for modern
improvements. So quietly has the old Falcon taken flight that I fear our local
photographers have not secured pictures of the old buildings and its destruction
has escaped even the lynx-eyed representatives of the Press. I am consoled that I
have retained my water-colour drawing of this famous inn, which I made 25 years ago
for ‘Old Cambridge’ – W.B. Redfern

c.44.6 # c.65

Wednesday 20th August

1978
Doubts about restoring the semi-derelict Fulbourn windmill are likely to be settled
by the setting up of a village trust to lease it from the new owner. The Windmill
Society hopes the deal will make it possible to continue the restoration work,
begun in 1974. Since then timber has been weatherproofed and the aim is to restore
the mill to something like the condition of its heyday when it was used for
grinding villagers’ corn. The main task at present involves renewing the floors and
three months have been earmarked for the work.

1953

Forty flying pigs from Sweden circled Cambridge airport and then came in to make a
perfect landing. Their first sight of England on the ground was the front end of a
BBC TV newsreel camera as the doors opened and the pigs stepped unceremoniously
from their two aircraft on to waiting trucks. They were the first consignment of
Swedish Landrace pigs being imported for breeding purposes by the National Pig
Breeders’ Association. They had to be flown because of very restricted shipping
space and have to be out of quarantine in time for the Peterborough Autumn Sales

1928

Mr A.J. Kerr of Downing College, Cambridge, a passenger on the train involved in

the smash at Shepreth crossing said: “Next to our carriage was a horse box, which
was completely smashed, only the wheels being left. At the time of the collision a
horse was in the box. It was thrown to the other side of the line, where it lay for
some little time with a considerable amount of wreckage on top of it. Then it
scrambled up and bolted down the line”

1903

Our attention has been drawn to the fact that another link with the fascinating
past of Cambridge is being severed by the almost entire demolition of the one-time
famous ‘Falcon Inn’. Many years ago the front of the building, with its fine old
gables facing Petty Cury, disappeared and about eight years ago the buildings on
the left side of the Falcon Yard were demolished to make way for business
extensions. Now the rooms on the right side are in process of demolition for extra
accommodation for the Lion Hotel. The back part possessing a small specimen of the
open gallery remains

c.44.6 # c.61

Thursday 21st August

1978

Organising holidays is a highly skilled business so when the Cambridge Federation

of Women’s Institutes offered WI members from any part of the country the
possibility of a holiday tour based around Cambridge they were taken aback by the
big response. No sooner had the word been put around than 30 applications poured in
and the numbers had to be limited to one coachload. Now after months of
preparations the WI holidaymakers are swelling the throngs of tourists doing the
sights. They are staying at St John’s College and paying £55 for their five-day
stay.

1953

Over 100 old-age pensioners from the Incorporated Cambridge University Settlement,
London, visited Cambridge to see the city which has meant so much in their lives.
Trinity College started the Settlement at Camberwell in the late 19th century, when
their graduates lived as a settlement in the slum district and helped to raise the
standard of the neighbourhood. After three years Trinity invited the other colleges
to join them and the name was changed to Cambridge House. Today it has many
branches including an old people’s club, boys’ club and legal aid centre.

1923

There is one thought uppermost in everyone’s minds, and that is the level crossing
collision at Shepreth and the almost miraculous escape of the passengers. The
accident must surely be without precedent in the records of railway disasters in
the comparatively small number of casualties compared with the damage to the
express. It is almost incredible that with nearly 100 passengers aboard the train
not one of them was killed, though the engine fireman and the lorry driver lost
their lives. The disaster is bound to raise afresh the question of level crossings
such as that at Shepreth which is an occupation crossing opened and closed by those
who use it.

1903

Sir – the alarm about the old Falcon Inn, Petty Cury, being demolished unrecorded
seems to me unnecessary. Certainly within the last 40 years I have sent out almost
as many drawings of it, to say nothing of the etchings. It, with the old Wrestlers
Inn, has been a small gold mine to me. One noticeable thing I might mention: it was
the last inn to hang out a flag as a sign that the recruiting sergeant was at home
– Robert Farren

c.44.6

Friday 22nd August

1978

The ice-cream war is hotting up in Cambridge’s Lion Yard and the competition is
getting so cut-throat that even some of the salesmen feel there are too many stands
– as many as 19 on one day. A few years ago there were only two or three stalls
selling hot-dogs and ice creams, or roast chestnuts in the winter. But now the
proliferation is bringing complaints from shops who say their trade is suffering
and from tourists, who say they are being molested. In addition the mouldering
strife is threatening to erupt in violence as the growing number of traders cut
into each other’s sales.

1953

There have been several important archaeological finds of the Roman era on the
Arbury Road building site. Traces of the Roman Road, Akeman Street, a cemetery, a
building and extensive rubbish pits have all been unearthed. Two waterworks
engineers found some pottery and a quantity of glass which had been imported from
the Rhine. But some of this has been lost; it was left on the edge of a trench and
has been taken by someone not knowing its historical value

c.41

1928

The funerals of the two victims of the level-crossing disaster at Shepreth, the
fireman of the engine and the driver of the motor lorry, took place at Cambridge.
The passing of each cortege along Mill Road was watched by a number of silent
sympathisers. Owing no doubt to the rain comparatively few people had assembled
when the procession of the lorry driver passed from Romsey Terrace. Heads were
bared and traffic stopped, an Ortona bus remaining stationary until the party had
passed. A short while afterwards the cortege of the fireman turned out of Suez
Road. It was headed by railwaymen, then came the bearers followed by a motor
hearse, the top of which was covered with beautiful wreaths.

1903

At Littleport parish council Mr Cross brought forward a motion calling attention to

the desirability of a public urinal. He had spoken to may ratepayers of the poorer
classes and not found many against it. It would mean only a half-penny rate if it
were erected with a tank in the coal place (there being a sewer near by). There
were no such public conveniences except on licensed premises. The Chairman was in
favour and Mr Martin said he would support it if there were a sufficient supply of
water. He also thought it important to have a bathing place so that everyone should
learn to swim

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 25th August

1978

Jerry Bol, the popular Cambridge busker, was fined £2 as a result of the police
crack-down on street vendors causing obstructions in the Lion Yard shopping
precinct. Police said they counted a crowd of 67 people listening to his one-man-
band. Mr Bol told the court he became a busker five years ago & since then had
appeared in 25 TV programmes & films. “The children of Cambridge call me ‘Mr Music
Man’ and I stand in Petty Cury for their safety. The Duke of Edinburgh and the
Mayor of Heidelberg came to see me”, he told the court, & would pay his fine with
£3 given him by well-wishers since his arrest.

c.69

1953

Remember that cricket match at the Oval and the history-making sweep by Denis
Compton that carried a ball from Morris, the Australian Vice-Captain, to the long-
leg boundary? Sixteen-year-old Billy Evans, freckled-faced son of Newmarket’s
Australian jockey, W.T. Evans, has the bat, signed by Compton. His mother bought it
back when she returned from watching the thrilling match. Young Billy was busy
fielding in the covers for Newmarket Town Second XI when a substitute was sent out
so he could be told his mother had the bat. He already has one given him by Keith
Miller.

1928

It is a far cry from the White House, the home of American President Calvin
Coolidge, to the old-world village of Cottenham. Some time back one of the Coolidge
family unearthed the fact that they had originated in the village and the Rev
Robert Moline instituted a search in the parish registers. He has sent the
President a leather bible with a picture of the parish church on the back and a
photograph of the original entry of the baptism in 1604 of little John Coulledge.
The family emigrated to America in 1631.

1903

Ely Council considered the site for a small-pox hospital, a temporary building of
wood and iron; they agreed to hire 22 acres of land in Grunty Fen, two miles from
any village. A case of smallpox had occurred at Wilburton after somebody was
allowed to come from a house at Cambridge where the disease existed. None of them
were safe if that sort of thing could occur. Dr Anningson said there was another
possible cause but did not speak in a tone that could be heard by the reporter.

Tuesday 26th August

1978

The Four Went Ways roundabout on the A11 was sealed off for more than 24 hours
after a tanker carrying 18 tons of ammonia crashed and overturned. It was on its
way to the ICI depot at Chedburgh, near Haverhill. A team of ICI specialists and
fire crews worked through the night under floodlights to pump the load into another
tanker. One said: “This is liquefied gas and can be explosive & toxic in larger
doses. Fortunately there are few people living nearby”. Morning rush-hour commuters
met delays as they crowded the country lanes being used as diversions.

1953

An ever-increasing number of Vespa Clubs is being formed as more and more people
from all walks of life decide to solve their transport problems by becoming owners
of Vespa two-wheel runabouts. The latest in this international league is the
Cambridge Branch. A large number of onlookers was attracted by the sight of a fleet
of Vespas parked outside The Anchor, Silver Street while the owners met. The first
outing will be a run to the Ferry Boat Inn on Sunday.

c.26.485

1928

An important improvement in East Cambs will be effected by the new road which it is
proposed should be made from Burwell to the Wicken main road in Heditch Field. It
would relieve the main road through Fordham of a considerable amount of traffic and
assist an agricultural area. Newmarket R.D.C. has appointed a special committee to
deal with the matter

1903

Cambridge Library Committee considered the supply of literature for the use of the
blind; they will subscribe for the supply of books provided a sufficient number of
persons expressed their willingness to use them. It is hoped that those who “live
in darkness” will be made acquainted with his decision. From 1895 to 1899 books
were issued in response to applications but the number of blind readers never
reached double figures. The average citizen will always be inclined to stretch a
point with regard to expenditure in order to provide food for the brain for the
blind. But how many are able to read the Braille type which has superseded the Moon
system that was in vogue for some considerable time.

c.77.4

Wednesday 27th August

1978

A leakage of thousands of gallons of aircraft fuel at the Mildenhall American Air

Force base may mean water supplies to 40,000 homes in the surrounding area will
have to be cut off. The fuel is trapped underground near a bore-hole serving homes
in the Ely and Littleport area. The Water Authority was informed on August 4th
although the leakage had been discovered on July 18th when it was a kilometre from
the bore-hole. Since then it had moved 200 metres but it was not clear whether it
would eventually end up in the water supply. The oil is trapped in porous rocks and
holes are being drilled to locate it. The USAF then hopes to pump the fuel to the
surface.

1953

Ealing Studios are getting into full production of their new Technicolor film,
tentatively called “Newmarket Heath”. The location unit has been filming scenes in
the yard of Kremlin Stables, loaned by Mrs Lambton. To Newmarket’s undying shame
the unit has brought its own string of a dozen horses complete with six lads from
Mr Vic Smyth’s stable at Epsom. On location were Bill Owen, who plays the part of a
warned-off jockey, and well-known character actor Charles Victor. Next week heralds
the serious business of getting shots in the ring at the Rowley Mile racecourse.

c.65.5

1928

After the Ministry of Transport Inquiry into the tragic rail smash at Shepreth it
now remains for steps to be taken to prevent the recurrence of such an accident. It
was no one’s business to pilot vehicles or foot passengers over the level crossing
but was left to drivers to use ordinary care. Among the women passengers was a lady
travelling to Finsbury Park, and she had with her a basket of eggs. After the
smash, of course, she transferred with the other passengers to a relief train. When
he arrived at her destination a railway official asked, out of curiosity, if he
might look in her basket. Not one egg was broken!

1903

Sir – a report is circulating that a lad was sent from Cherry Hinton to the tents
on Coldham’s Common supposed to be suffering from smallpox and that after a week he
was sent home, only to be taken away a second time in a few days. Another report is
that during the recent heavy rains the beds in the tents were surrounded by water
and the deaths that have occurred there have been caused by cold and not by
smallpox, as reported. As ratepayers we have a right to know whether this is true
or false. – Villager

c.21.1

Thursday 28th August

1978

Work is underway on the redecoration of the interior of Rampton church for the
first time in living memory. It brings to an end the last stage of a programme of
repair. Much of the trouble began in the dry summer of 1976 when shrinking clay
left a three-inch crack in the chancel wall. It was in danger of collapse and had
to be underpinned. Metal ties had to be inserted and the aisle roof reslated. The
work is costing £7,000 and fund-raising for the 800-year-old church, one of the few
thatched churches left in Britain, continues

1953
While the National Radio Exhibition at Earls Court offers the best in radio and
television under one roof, Cambridge’s own exhibition goes on throughout the year
in the windows and showrooms of the city’s radio stores. Langham Radio Services of
Mill Road have the Sobel 14-inch tv for 64 guineas or the Cossor 12-inch at 50
guineas. Morley & Duke offer a free demonstration in your own home of the Pye V4
television with automatic picture control which costs £64.18.0 or on H.P. at 15/-
[FIFTEEN SHILLINGS] weekly.

1928

Sir – much has been written on the subject of the talking film; there is very
little likelihood of any such startling innovation. The public would not want it,
the difficulties of training whole casts of actors whose vocal abilities were not
commensurate with their facial gifts would prevent it. But there is a real demand
for audible film: News of the Day – public men making speeches will be seen and
heard and personalities enhanced. Dramatic effects will be heightened by the
production of ‘noises’ such as storms. Music Hall and revue sketches or ‘star’
turns will offer welcome interludes between the silent film plays and incidental
music become an integral part of film production and not be left to the mercy of
the local cinema orchestra – N. Sandeman, House of Commons.

1903

We do not think there is the slightest risk of smallpox spreading through the use
of books belonging to the Cambridge Free Library. Almost directly the epidemic was
made public, Mr Pink, the librarian, wrote to us stating that every infectious case
was immediately reported to him by the Medical Officer of Health. If such persons
were borrowers a notice was despatched informing them they would not be able to
borrow any book until the house had been properly infected. Any books or cards they
had were collected and promptly destroyed. We do not see any necessity for the
closing of the Library - Editor

c.77.4

Friday 29th August

For those who live in St Neots returning from holiday is a hazardous business. No
less than 10 local newspapers are now circulating in the town and, whether they
like it or not, several are pushed through the letterbox every week jamming the
door. A circulation battle is taking place between three rival newspaper groups -
one claims to distribute 18,000 copies in an area which contains only 14,000
households. Beat that for saturation coverage! The humblest event gets very
thorough coverage; at the carnival’s bonny baby contest there were almost as many
journalists as entrants and everywhere are reporters, photographers, ad reps and
vans proclaiming the title of one of St Neots’ many organs.

1953

Waterbeach RAF station which had a distinguished record as a Bomber Command base
during the war and is now in the forefront of Britain’s fighter defence system, was
presented with its station badge. It depicts part of the station’s history with a
motif of a rose and a sprig of gilliflower which were at one time the rent paid for
Waterbeach Manor and Abbey, which forms a large part of the airfield. The station
was formed in 1941 for bombers; in 1945 it was taken over by Transport Command and
in 1950 became part of Fighter Command

1928

Sir – the bottom of Jesus Green swimming pool is in a very slimy condition and the
shallow end practically useless for learners as they dare not venture away from the
side. The custodian does not think there is a simple remedy; I suggest weighted
cocoanut matting or a layer of sand. The custodian is successful with learners but
he does not go into the water and hold them up with his hands but has a belt and
rope and supports them from the bank. He has to be paid for his trouble and it is
not every body who can afford to pay – W.H.F.

1903

A shoemaker from March was charged with exposing a girl in the village street of
Abbots Ripton during the time she was suffering with scarlet fever. Dr Evison,
Medical Officer of Health for March, said he attended a sister of the girl and
found her suffering from scarlet fever. A week later Cecilia was also taken with
the same complaint. He gave orders for complete isolation but on his next visit had
been told the children had been sent away. Dr Newton said he attended two village
children suffering from scarlet fever and afterwards found the March children had
come in contact with his patients. But he did not see the girl in the street. The
summons was withdrawn.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 1st September

1978

Meals on Wheels in its early days was set alight by the WRVS in the 1940’s, the
idea of a hot homely two-course meal taken by hand to the old and lonely, kindled
flames of compassion in the heart of many a housewife. Voluntary drivers gladly
used their own carts to transport the meals from kitchen to waiting recipient, all
set with his two warm plates and his knife, fork and spoon. Since Cambridgeshire
County Council became responsible for the service the price rose. Inflation roared,
devouring food costs and petrol money & volunteer drivers melted into part-time
jobs. But the list of recipients grew

1953

The Eastern Region Food Office is to cease to function in Cambridge after 14 years.
It opened in Corpus Christi College at the beginning of the war and remained there
until November 1945 when it moved to its present offices in Brooklands Avenue. In
December 1946 the Essex and Hertfordshire region was also brought under Cambridge

1928

Newmarket Council heard that the Stewards of the Jockey Club felt the cost of
purchasing and maintaining fire equipment should be paid for out of the rates, and
not by voluntary subscriptions. But if a fire occurred at the grand stand, which
was worth perhaps £100,000 their fire engine would be called upon to go and it
seemed a great pity the Jockey Club could not contribute £250 towards the cost of
an engine. The increase of housing and the storage of more petrol rendered the risk
of fire greater and the need for a well-equipped brigade more pressing.

1903

An Ely fishmonger was summonsed for keeping a refreshment house open during
prohibited hours. Inspector Burton said he saw five men in the shop eating fish at
11.10pm. There were no forms, knives or forks and they stood against the counter
and ate the fish with their fingers. One of them saw him watching whereupon the
fishman shouted “You can’t eat that fish here; you’ll get me into trouble” and they
picked up the fish and came out of the shop. When fined 9s. he replied “This is a
cheap advertisement for me”

Tuesday 2nd September

1978

Cambridge councillors are having second thoughts about the historic and ancient
Reach Fair festivities. Times have changed a bit since the year 1201 when King John
granted the village a charter to hold its own fair during Rogation Week, a moveable
church festival. This year the ‘proclamation’ date coincided with the new,
politically inspired, May Bank Holiday, which resulted in a bumper turn-out. Now
Reach Parish Council has asked that this should always be the official opening
date.

c.27.3

1953

The incidence of suicide at Oxford and Cambridge is higher that at other

universities in the U.K. Some years ago the proportion of the population which
constituted sound University material was thought to be over 40 per cent. Now that
percentage was no higher than 15. “I believe a great deal of frustration,
unhappiness and waste is caused by forcing students into University courses when
they have neither the intelligence, training, personality or mental fibre to meet
the standard of such education. Many breakdowns arise because men are forced into
work against their true inclinations, often for family reasons. Sexual disturbances
are not important causes of failure, though from time to time students seek refuge
in drink or drugs”, said the senior tutor of St Catharine’s College.

c.36.9

1928

Four London men had an amazing escape when a motor lorry overturned and caught fire
at the Gog Magogs. The heavily-laden lorry was descending the Linton side of the
hill when the steering mechanism gave way and the vehicle, careering down the road
like a drunken man, skidded for about 50 yards, struck the grass verge and
completely overturned. The engine burst into flames and the chassis became
involved, but the men managed to extricate themselves, having sustained only minor
injuries. Some obstruction was caused by the derelict vehicle which was eventually
removed by a breakdown gang from a Cambridge garage.

1903

Sir – last evening I met three horses running loose and apparently unattended along
Mill Road, Cambridge. Some distance behind them two men were being dragged along by
a young horse which they were evidently trying to ‘break in’. Carts, cycles and
other users of the road overtaking them had to slow down until they could dash past
& foot passengers had to seek safety in doorways. I have also frequently met in St
Andrew’s Street a high-spirited, high-stepping horse being led by a single rein
about 20 feet long, the other end being held by a man on a bicycle! These things
ought not to be allowed in our streets – Citizen

c.19
Wednesday 3rd September

1978

Members of the church of St Andrew the Great in Cambridge are stepping up their
campaign against its closure. The redundancy process has already started but people
think it would be a great sin and plan to petition the Bishop of Ely for a rethink.
Although there has been no resident vicar for about six years the congregation has
been steadily growing and weekday services have also started. The group of
parishioners have managed to keep the church open all day on Thursday and Saturday
and hope to keep it open all week as time goes on.

1953

After pouring thousands of gallons of water on to a fire at Great Sampford the

brigades ran short of water and had to fall back on the river to supplement their
supplies. The outbreak started in a barn at Stow Farm beside the High Street and
flames swept across the street, which was blocked for more than three hours, and
set fire to a cottage. The fire also reached a converted windmill but local workmen
put out the flames before they could do any serious damage. Lots of old wartime
members of the A.F.S. left their work and ‘mucked in’ with the fire brigade. The
fire cut telephone wires and a fireman had to borrow a private car to dash to
Radwinter to call for more pumps.

1928

A case of typhoid occurred at Caxton Police Station. The patient, a woman, had been
away from home a week or two before becoming ill and it would be extremely
difficult to trace its origin. Various ditches and drains in the district were in
an unsatisfactory condition. Likely sources of infection such as drainage and milk
supply were being investigated. There had been no other case of typhoid in the
county for 2½ [TWO-AND-A-HALF] years. Two cases of scarlet fever occurred at
Papworth Everard; the patients have been removed to Cambridge Isolation Hospital &
the house disinfected

1903

Motor cycle reliability trials are taking place at the Crystal Palace. One
Cambridge competitor, Mr W. King, of Messrs King and Co, Bridge Street, has been
holding his own on a ‘King’ machine manufactured by the firm. The machine is 2 ¾ hp
[TWO AND THREE-QUARTERS HORSE POWER] which took a gold medal for the best motor
cycle of its class in February 1902. Journeys of about 150 miles are being made
daily and then the machines go back to the Palace and are locked up. Next morning
the competitor is allowed time to fill up and then set off on another journey. The
‘King’ machine is doing well and all interesting in motoring in Cambridge will wish
it continued success.

c.26.485

Thursday 4th September

1978

The Government has stopped Cambridge City Council’s plan to rebuild the Kite area.
They have refused to allow them to borrow the £2.3 million needed to buy the land
for shopping development which means the 20-year saga of decay will continue
indefinitely. The council’s Conservative leader claimed it was a political
decision, probably part of a General Election run-up. M.P. Robert Rhodes James said
the blight in the Fitzroy Street area would be perpetuated and the general economic
and physical decline of the area would continue remorselessly. But organisations
which have been fighting the plans are delighted.

c.49.4 : Kite

1953

During the War British scientists worked on a secret project for destroying the
enemy crops by means of chemicals dropped from aircraft. The method was never used
but the discoveries made by the research workers at a “hush hush” plot in East
Anglia have since made possible one of the selective weed-killers which destroy the
weeds and leave the crops unharmed. In Cambridge dinitro compounds were used to
kill some weeds and out of a very nasty idea meant for our enemies came another
project – plant hormones, the director of Pest Control told Cambridge businessmen.

c.45.7

1928

Motoring friends have remarked that they consider the new island and lamp standard
at the bend of Victoria Avenue, Cambridge, a danger to road users, and although the
Corporation’s object was to prevent accidents they may do more harm than good. The
motorist who was unfortunate enough to crash into the standard this week had his
vision partially obscured by heavy rain but it would be the easiest thing in the
world for a stranger to meet with an accident there. Because of the green
background of the trees the standard is not visible to motorists until they are
nearly on top of it – why not paint it white?

c.24.8

1903

Laurie and McConnal applied for permission to erect a bridge over Fitzroy Lane to
connect the two buildings which they propose to erect on either side of the lane.
It would be 33 feet above the level of the street in the centre and 28 ft 6 inches
at each end. They also desired to lay an iron pipe under the roadway from one
portion of the premises to the other for heating purposes. The application was
approved on payment of a rent of 5s. per annum

c.27.2

Friday 5th September

1978

Hostile public reaction to the doubled fines introduced for overdue books at
Cambridgeshire libraries is forcing a rethink on the matter. Although the council
is nearly £20,000 better off since the fine went up to 10p a week for each book,
the library service has been hit badly. A lot of people have stopped using the
libraries and staff are subjected to constant complaints from readers. Assistants
have become embarrassed to ask for the large fines and staff morale has dropped. A
new report now suggests the fine be cut to 5p for the first week.

c.77.4

1953

Two-and-a-half-tons of freshly-picked Victoria plums were destroyed when a fruit

lorry from Chiver’s farm at Hazelstub, Haverhill, came into collision with a coal
waggon from the Haverhill depot of Moys Ltd. The impact of the crash, near Castle
Camps caused the coal waggon’s petrol tank to explode, sending both vehicles up in
flames. Both drivers scrambled clear in time to escape being burnt. The plums were
being taken to the Histon jam-making factory, having been picked that morning.

1928

Sir – if you walk into King’s Parade, Cambridge you see on your right, stretching
almost indefinitely to Trinity Street a long varied row of shops – tailors,
photographers, booksellers and cafes – in fine all the indications of the
necessities of modern life. You may linger before window displays of the latest
dance record, buns and cakes, photographs of college eights, and books and books.
You notice the windows reflect your new summer suiting and admire its fashionable
cut. Yet turn round and your gaze encounters minarets and towers, white gleaming
the sunshine. Great walls, vulnerable with tradition, frown coldly down at you and
you feel absurdly out of place in your flannel trousers and double-breasted coat –
“Awe-struck”

1903

A unique scene was witnessed at Isleham when an elderly couple, named Mark and
Sarah Turner, were publicly baptised in the river Lark and thereby became a member
of the Baptist Church. The ceremony took place at the ferry water only a few yards
from the house in which the couple live and was witnessed by upwards of a thousand
people. Some cycled and drove whilst others came in farm carts, waggons and traps.
An enterprising bargeman let his barge at a penny per head and this accommodated 50
people who were able to get a good view of the proceedings. The ferry also took a
good number of passengers, whilst others found room in boats on the water.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 8th September

1978

The “violent shrill of complaint” from the public over heavy fines for overdue
library books has left some county councillors unmoved. The Leisure Committee
decided against reducing fines of 10p a week per book which are embarrassing
library staff and causing hardship. Chief Librarian Royston Brown says people are
taking out fewer books and many children have stopped using the libraries

1953

Cambridge housewives have responded “very soberly” to the chance of buying white
bread again for the first time in 13 years. Mr J. Markillie, president of the
Cambridge Bakers’ Association says demand for the small white loaf is now growing
daily once people had “a taste of it”. Sales have been affected by the price – it
costs 6d as against 4½d [FOURPENCE HALFPENNY] for the national loaf but the demand
seems to be for the large loaf, which bakers are not yet making. Loaves have to be
ordered in advance as bakers are “cagey” about the quantity they make and do not
want stocks left on their hands.

1928

Ald Conder said the country was buzzing with town planners; the Cambridge East town
planning scheme was drawn up by Cambridge Borough Council and covered part of
Chesterton RDC area. It reserved certain land for allotments so the owner sent in a
claim for compensation to the Town Council; as the land was in Chesterton they
forwarded it to the RDC who decided to release it from allotments. So if one
authority town planned an area outside its own boundaries it was possible that what
had been done at great expense could be undone immediately it became inconvenient
to another. That was the general trend throughout the country.

1903

A meeting arranged by the Cambridge Anti-Vaccination League was held on Market

Hill. A large crowd of people assembled but the opinions of the principal speaker
aroused some opposition & a little heckling took place. Someone placed a quantity
of calcium carbide into the water of the fountain. & the acetelyne gas which was
generated was borne among the audience to whom the disagreeable odour was most
objectionable.

c.21.1

Tuesday 9th September

1978

The first new boat sailed into the new marina beside the River Ouse at Ely. Work on
Banham Marina, which can hold 112 pleasure craft, started in May and for the past
few days it has been gradually filled with water. It is now ready for use, although
landscaping, paths and car parks still have to be completed. It was designed by
Dennis Adams and Partners of Ely and finished just in time for boat owners to ‘lay
off’ their craft for the winter months.

1953

A large congregation gathered at Histon Baptist Church for the induction of the new
minister, the Rev David Jackson. The service also marked the reopening of the
church after interior renovations which included the redesign of the front of the
church and the introduction of some beautiful panelling from Impington Hall. The
renovation scheme was first drawn up seven years ago and is now almost completed.

1928

Planners suggested there should be a belt on the west side of Cambridge where, if
there were any development at all, it should be very sparse. Most of the land
belonged to the colleges and it would be a good thing if they got together and put
their estates into the hands of an association so that land which would be
sterilised would be balanced by other where development was allowed. Ribbon
development was bound to continue but there should be a very wide belt between the
road and the houses. While people could buy frontages to public roads at about £2 a
foot they did not mind going out a few miles.

c.49.4

1903

Sir – there is an undoubted need of facilities for higher education in Haverhill.

There are numerous businessmen who cannot see their way to send their sons to the
Perse or County schools at Cambridge on account of the great expense of travelling.
It seems hard that the boys of Haverhill should be debarred from all chance of
advancement through the want of an available Secondary School. I hope we may start
a movement that will end in the establishment of a Grammar School here so that any
lad endowed with exceptional intellect would have his future before him – A.
Crosfield.

Wednesday 10th September

1978

Cliff Squires and Briscoe Snelson were two of Cambridge’s most talented amateur
photographers, good friends who often photographed the same scene, though from
their own distinctive viewpoints. Squires, founder of the Cambridge Camera Club
died not long after his friend Snelson was widowed and in 1953 Mrs Kathleen Squires
became Mrs Snelson. She remembers both husbands as simply, “lovely men”. Now their
widow has deposited a horde of their photographs with the enterprising
Cambridgeshire Collection, who are planning to hold lunchtime lantern-slide shows
this autumn.

c.65.5

1953

Work on the excavation of the small Roman house on Arbury Road, Cambridge, has
continued and a Roman well with its oak linings in perfect condition discovered. It
reached down to the water level 11ft below the surface and was in a good state of
preservation due to debris from the older Roman house being thrown down into it and
the whole thing sealed when a later building was erected over it. The well was
cleared by a Clare College student and Mr Alan Watt, a schoolboy, and the lining
removed to the Museum of Archaeology.

c.41

1928

Cambridgeshire gets its quote of “Weary Willies” – the wandering fraternity and
ne’er-do-wells – who, homeless and penniless, are content to patronise the various
casual wards or ‘spikes’ and seek shelter at the expense of the ratepayers. I
recall a visit to Cambridge ‘spike’ when bread and water was all we received in the
way of sustenance and a stiff task of wood sawing or stone-breaking was expected in
return. The ‘spike’ at Ely was, however, always regarded as a ‘cushy’ one. Today
the tramp has a comfortable mattress to rest on, a hot bath, clean towels, night
shirt and sometimes a safety razor. On leaving he is provided with bread and cheese
to sustain him on his journey.

c.32.9

1903

That part of the Education Act which relates to elementary education opens up the
prospect of a destructive and constructive change in the administration of county
schools. The County Council has been engaged in formulating regulations on the
training of teachers, village libraries etc and circulars for the guidance of the
managers will be issued shortly. The Bible shall be read and instruction in the
principles of the Christian religion and morality given but no attempt made to
attach children to any particular denomination; managers and parents may apply for
the exception of the school from this regulation.

Thursday 11th September

1978

Cambridge parking meter charges - up to 15p an hour in the city centre and already
among the highest in the country - are expected to increase in the New Year. This
is mainly to help to pay for the traffic wardens’ latest wage rises of 9.4 per
cent, which takes their starting rate to £2,566 a year. The city’s 426 meters,
which have been run at a handsome profit for some years, will show a big deficit
this year.

1953

Pye Ltd of Cambridge are showing on their stand at the Radio Show a 27-inch direct
view cathode ray television receiver with automatic picture control. It is the
largest ever seen in the country and will allow at least 200 people to watch in
comfort. Pye have also provided a miniature ‘staticon’ television camera which is
being used on the Celebrity Dais, the pictures being relayed throughout the
exhibition.

1928

All applicants for admission to Cambridge workhouse are searched for contraband
goods – not a pleasant task for the porter, and anathema to the tramp, who
endeavours by all the tricks in his calendar to outwit the searching fingers of the
official. No tramp is supposed to take in any tobacco, pipe, matches or money but
to place them in his kit which is returned on discharge. But “Weary Willie” dearly
loves a smoke; his stumpy pipe he will conceal in a toe of one of his big boots, in
the other he places his matches or a selection of ‘kerbstone mixture’ – cigarette
ends picked up in the streets - and Cambridge in Term provides him with a plentiful
harvest.

c.32.9

1903

Cambridge burgesses who for conscientious reasons refuse to pay the Education Rate
appeared in court. Large crowds packed the entrance as cheering in the street
heralded the approach of the passive resisters. The decorum of the court broke down
and applause gave way to lusty cheering which the police made no effort to subdue.
George Shippey said public money should not be devoted to denominational teaching.
Benjamin Liles of Fitzroy Street said the Education Act violates the British
Constitution; hitherto he had an opportunity of taking part in the election of the
persons who made the rate, now he would have no voice and that was why he refused
to pay.

c.36.5

Friday 12th September

1978

Independent schools don’t get more independent than tiny Madingley infants’ school,
which started the first day of term in defiance of the education authorities. The
County Council ordered the school to close at the end of July saying that, at
£10,000 a year for 23 pupils, it was too expensive. But parents, teacher and pupils
walked out and launched a co-operative to run their own school. They thought of
hiring the village hall but have now decided to use the wooden cricket pavilion.
The old school building goes up for auction next month and parents have launched a
campaign to raise money to buy it.
1953

The drainage rate to be levied on the Allottees of the Cottenham Inclosure Award
has been reduced by ninepence now that the Old West Internal Drainage District
Scheme has been approved. It provides for the abolition of the Cottenham, Rampton
and Willingham Drainage District but there is no provision for the disposal of
surplus moneys and is unlikely to commence before 1st April 1954.

1923

Money is often ‘cached’ outside the workhouse, the tramps burying the coins in the
sides of some bank, below tree roots or behind loose wall stones. Another means of
concealment is to embed some small coins in the pieces of soap “Weary Willie”
generally carry; but a casual ward official has adopted the practice of probing
every piece of soap with a hat pin and often comes across hidden treasure. Coins
are also concealed in the mouth and an old tramp ‘Long Amos’ bemoans to this day
the accidental swallowing of a sixpence while taking a bath in Royston ‘spike’

1903

Goods seized from Passive Resisters for the non-payment of the education rate were
auctioned at Cambridge Corn Exchange. Due precautions were taken to prevent
unseemly disturbances. The auctioneer was enclosed in what resembled a laager,
composed of corn merchants’ desks and a large number of constables kept a vigilant
watch on the crowd who clambered upon desks to obtain a clearer view of what was
going to happen. No sooner had the auctioneer started than his words were drowned
in a perfect storm of hooting and hissing.

c.36.5 # c.33

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 15th September

1978

Bar Hill’s newest resident, twins Rupert and Stuart Donovan just two weeks old, and
the oldest, Mrs Edith Chance who has lived there for seven years, were among the
people invited to the stone-laying of the new community centre by the chairman of
the County Council, Mrs Margaret Shaw. Residents hope the centre, which will have
a social club, changing rooms, youth activity and a permanent playgroup, will be
finished in a year. The Parish Council’s contribution to the event, a display by
three light aircraft, had to be curtailed due to high winds.

1953

For the first time in the history of the National Federation of Anglers’ All-
England championship the individual title has come to Cambridgeshire. The proud
winner is Neville Hazelwood, an R.A.F. Sergeant at Waterbeach, who was in the
Cambridge Albion Society team. Fishing in the Nene he landed 27lbs 14 ozs of bream,
the best of which was about 3 lbs.

1928

In a tramp’s kit, carried in a dirty sack, you will find a curious collection of
articles. Foremost is a ‘drum’, a large tin can fitted with a wire handle in which
to brew hot water or black, strong, smoke-scented tea over a ‘yog’ (stick fire) by
the roadside. Other articles include strips of cloth, known as ‘toe-rags’ used for
binding round the feet in lieu of socks, pieces of old leather, rubber and a
variety of nails for cobbling boots, a broken-bladed knife and a rusty spoon. He
will also have a tin box holding a collection of ‘hard-up’ and a number of sheets
of out-of-date newspapers gathered from rubbish heaps – “Weary Willies’ Library”

1903

The first sale of goods seized from the passive resisters of St Ives was held near
the police station. None of the local auctioneers would accept the office so a
Peterborough firm was imported to carry out the sale. The appearance of the
auctioneer was the sequel for an uproar of groans, hooting and hissing. The first
lot was a Brussels carpet and teapot, then came a sewing machine taken from Mr
Money, tailor, to pay his arrears of 9d; this was run up to 30s. at which price it
was knocked down to his employer. The sale closed amidst general uproar and the
crowd made for the Cromwell Statue for a great demonstration.

Tuesday 16th September

1978

The Cambridge Symphony Orchestra is set to rise ‘like a phoenix from the ashes’ of
its collapse last year. It has financial backing by four local businessmen to
guarantee their first three concerts and hopes to regain the goodwill of local
people. The format continues as before with a nucleus of professional musicians
aided by enthusiastic amateurs and music students, some of school age, who will all
be good enough to make a professional sound, bringing a symphony orchestra to
Cambridge at a price people can afford to pay.

c.69

1953

The 1,429-acre Heydon Estate, the property of Mr C.H.A. Butler, and once the home
of Lord Braybrooke, has been sold to a private trust who are to retain the estate.
The property comprises the Manor, a medium-sized house in seven acres of timbered
grounds, and practically the whole of the village of Heydon, with five important
farms and holdings, a Post Office and shop and a number of houses and cottages.

1923

Harry Lauder’s reminiscences, “Roamin’ in the Gloamin” includes many references to

the son he loved so well who was an undergraduate at Cambridge where it was his
intention to take his degree as Bachelor of Music. Harry was in Australia in summer
1914 and it was arranged that John should join him for the Summer Vacation. Within
five days of his return he was ordered to rejoin his Territorial Regiment and went
to France. Harry was playing in his first revue in London when the news came
through that Captain Lauder had been killed in action.

1903

Sir – the famous barrows known as the Bartlow Hills will soon be no more. It
matters nothing that they were reared in Roman times or are the private property of
a possessor bent on preserving these splendid relics. The railway company that
would have destroyed them 50 years ago but for determined opposition at the time,
has set its mind on their removal. They have elected to run their lines through the
barrows instead of around them. So the picks of English navvies, backed by
compulsory powers, will soon be at work ‘dinging doon’ these works of our Romano
British forefathers, since they stand in the way of their company’s dividends. It
is nothing short of a national scandal - A.R. Goddard
Wednesday 17th September

1978

Fire swept through the old railway station buildings at Pampisford, gutting a
warehouse storing timber and badly damaging an office block owned by a firm called
Solo Park. Firemen used breathing apparatus to get into the building and traffic on
the A11 was slowed down as hose reels stretched across the road. “You could hear
the windows cracking and then the roof crashed in”, one eyewitness said. Fire also
damaged a stage at Fulbourn Hospital where a grand piano and film screen was
destroyed.

1953

After a road test by courtesy of Messrs King and Harper I was able to form definite
ideas about the new Standard Eight. It has been built at a price of £481 to compete
with the Austin A30, Morris Minor and Ford Anglia and has been stripped of every
luxury and driver’s pet toy. On the standard model there are no wheel discs, the
minimum of chrome plating, only one windscreen wiper and no door pockets. Optional
extras are air conditioning, radio, oil bath air cleaner and roof rack.
Acceleration to 50 mph takes 25 seconds and top speed is 62 mph. It corners well
and the brakes are good; I pulled up from a steady 35 mph in only a foot or so more
than 30 feet. Petrol consumption is about 45 mpg for the normal touring owner.

1928

Captain Harry Spencer, the famous balloonist, was killed while attempting to
release a balloon piloted by his son which had descended on the roof of a house
belonging to Rugby School. He became affected by the escaping gas and rolled off
the roof. He was responsible for the design of the famous parachutes with which he
made hundreds of descents and in 1922 his son and daughter, then 14 and 16 years of
age, made simultaneous parachute jumps with him at Cambridge from a height of 3,000
feet.

c.26.1

1903

Two firewood dealers were charged with stealing a quantity of timber, the property
of the Roses Timber Company. The company had purchased 53 trees on the Madingley
Estate, amongst which were two elms; later they found that 17 feet had been cut
from one of them, and ten feet from the other. Police discovered the timber on the
defendants’ premises in Beche Road, Cambridge. When questioned they said it had
come from King’s Hedges. They were each fined £3.

Thursday 18th September

1978

The New Town area of Cambridge was developed in the 1820s with unpretentious
terraces, many of which were ill-built. But at least they had unity. Today, largely
demolished and patchily replaced, New Town strikes one as a sorry mess. Panton
Street is a mixture of discreet, elegant houses with intrusive modern developments.
The St Anthony’s Walk almshouses are a discordant construction, their severe
frontage characterised by jutting ventilatory contraptions: a battery-house for
humans. Opposite begins the Russell Court complex of flats; as such developments go
the quality is good and attempts have been made at a humanised appearance. Will its
stark modern brick ever attain the serene texture of the houses over the way –
Graham Chainey
c.49.4

1953

A Cambridge builder said there was a crying need for lock-up garages in Cambridge &
he wanted to build 14 in Bermuda Road. At present the roadway was blocked by
standing cars. But residents told and Inquiry they would be hemmed in and planners
feel the site would be more suitable for house building.

1928

The Cambridge works of Messrs W.G. Pye, the well-known scientific instrument and
wireless apparatus makers were entered and the workshops and office ransacked. The
works consist of several blocks of buildings extending from Cam Road to St Andrew’s
church at Old Chesterton. The visitor got into the transformer shop and then into a
corridor by means of a hole which had been made in the wall for the fixing of a
checking clock. Practically no damage was done and only a small sum of money is
missing. It appears he was not a wireless enthusiast because none of the wireless
parts were taken

1903

The Mayor of Cambridge read a letter: “The teacher of the school which my daughter
attends has asked that she be sent away from Cambridge during the last 18 days of
her holiday in order she may have a period of quarantine before returning”. He was
sorry Cambridge had such an unenviable reputation. It was not deserved. There was
no town in which a smallpox epidemic had been got under with such rapidity and this
was due to vaccination. Not one who had been vaccinated had taken the disease. Six
weeks ago there were 95 cases under treatment, now there were only 24 (applause)

c.21.1

Friday 19th September

1978

Two years ago the ornamental iron gates at the entrance to the Memorial Playing
Fields in Saffron Walden collapsed, and disappeared from public view. A few day ago
they reappeared, welded and repainted and back in place, rekindling war-time
memories. The gates were removed from Shortgrove Hall when it was used as a wartime
hospital and in 1955 hung to form an imposing entrance to the Anglo-American
memorial playing fields opened by Field Marshall Viscount Montgomery. In 1977 they
were discovered laying flat in a bed of nettles, almost too far gone for repair,
but the Saffron Walden Antiquarian Society arranged their restoration by local
firm, Scott and Bow.

1953

Sir – for six years German students have been visiting Britain to help with the
harvest. One who stayed near Cambridge wrote: ‘This week in an English family is
what I value most of all … and the friendly reception I got’. Next week about 800
students from universities all over Germany will be coming to help farmers harvest
potato and sugar beet crops. If you can help offer hospitality please contact the
German Student Harvest Scheme – Lord Pakenham

1928
A mass meeting of milk producers is to decide what to do in the present crisis.
Cambridge is fortunate in that a number of the local dairymen are also cowkeepers
and able to supply a certain amount of milk independent of what they get from the
farmers. The farmers are considering setting up milk depots in Cambridge in the
event of no agreement being made with the retail trade, to ensure that milk
continues to be delivered. But the Co-operative Society who supply the town with
5,000 gallons a week say the farmers couldn’t carry out the distribution – ‘it
wouldn’t be very sweet by the time the customers get it’

1903

A crisis in education has arisen at Cherry Hinton. St John’s Infants School, Blinco
Grove, is to be closed due to the abominable condition of the road which makes it
next to impossible for the infants to attend in wet weather. On June 30th the
average attendance was 49, compared to a high of 74 and the amount received by the
school has dwindled proportionally. The school was condemned three years ago but
the managers were asked to carry on until the new Education Act came into force.
Now the County Council has decided not to take over the school and the closing is a
drastic step taken to avoid a larger deficit.

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 22nd September

1978

They laugh a lot, paint exquisite pictures, write books, keep a menagerie in the
back garden and in between times look after the health and welfare of half of
Histon. They are doctors, Bob and Paddy Dwyer-Joyce, family doctors with the
emphasis on family. In the surgery is a big sweet jar and soon it will be empty
because they are both retiring from the NHS after 42 years. At the end of the month
there will be a few private patients, that will be all. And the unknown numbers who
will call anyway, and never be turned away

1953

Fulbourn Hospital Management Committee were concerned with rising costs; whereas
the hospital used to buy the rations, they must now buy only what was needed. But
the patients are not overfed and do not have a great variety. They must remember
they had people shut up on there. Whilst the cost of provisions supplied to
patients had increased considerably, the cost of provisions to the staff had
decreased. The main reason for the over-spend was the increased consumption of
meat.

1928

About 50 children from Milton Road school, Cambridge journeyed by special Ortona
bus to visit the industries of Sawston. Two groups called on the paper mill where
the various processes were explained while another was piloted through the glove
factory by Mr Hutchings whose patience in giving so many simple explanations calls
for commendation. They joined forces to visit the works of Messrs Thomas Evans to
see the various processes skins go through. During the journey home childish voices
exuberantly declared that they would live in Dixie, where the hens lay omelettes.
School was reached at 8 pm
1903

Colonel W.F. Cody, known as ‘Buffalo Bill’, is to bring his famous “Wild West show
to Ely. The cast of 700 includes American cowboys and Indians, Russian Cossacks,
South American gauchoes and some of Roosevelt’s Rough Riders. It includes the
exciting representation of an attack by Indians upon an American stagecoach and a
remarkable demonstration of skill with the rifle by Colonel Cody.

Tuesday 23rd September

1978

Some of the brightest artistic talents in Cambridge struggle along in two linked
huts, sharing cramped premises with enthusiastic leisure groups. That they carry on
with such professionalism is testimony to the spirit of the Cambridge Arts and
Leisure Association (CALA). It was formed thirteen years ago to bring together
under one roof in pleasant surroundings individuals and societies interested in all
kinds of leisure activities and promote the enjoyment of Arts and Crafts. They are
still campaigning from their base in Warkworth Street.

1953

Newmarket Chamber of Trade are concerned that more and more local people seem to be
going out of the town to do their shopping and have launched a shopping week.
Messrs C. Watson is the complete house furnishers and has a high reputation.
Chadwick’s are the premier florists and greengrocers, while well-known ‘Skeets’
Martin has gone from strength to strength since he started his own shoe repair
business and now employs people like Harry Price, who had his own business for 40
years.

1928

The Rev Charles Harold Evelyn-White, who has been rector of Rampton for the past 31
years, has announced his retirement. His work in connection with the restoration of
the parish church, carried out under circumstances of exceptional difficulty is
outstanding. He spoke of the wrench it would be for him and his wife to tear
themselves away from both place and people.

1903

A blacksmith was summonsed for obtaining beer at the “Wait for the ‘Bus” public
house, Bottisham by falsely representing himself as a traveller. The landlord said
the man called for beer shortly after ten o’clock; asked whether he had come the
necessary distance – three miles – the blacksmith said he had come from “just this
side of Cambridge”. If he had not represented himself as a traveller he would not
have been served. He was fined 10s and asked for time in which to pay. The
magistrates said: “We never allow time here. When you come to court here you must
expect to be fined and bring your money with you”.

Wednesday 24th September

1978

The tools used in 44 years of farming near Milton went under the hammer when nearly
500 items ranging from heavy-duty tractors to ancient forks figured in a selling-up
sale. The Downham Brothers, Richard and William, farmed about 70 acres of land from
1934. But William died last year and Richard decided to call it a day. A new road
scheme has decimated the land, which will now go to other uses including the
science park and light industry. An old tumbrel cart went for £40, tractors fetched
£800 and £420 while some disc harrows were knocked down for £600 and a mower for
£520.

1953

Ashfords is a Newmarket business well-known for value and variety which retains its
distinctive family atmosphere while Ron Langley is a local boy who made good.
Starting from scratch he has built up a business which caters for all classes of
taxi and private hire work. F.W. Hobbs are theoretically ironmongers but seem to
sell everything. They cater for the professional man like the decorator and builder
but the average handyman can spend hours looking at their range of tools and garden
implements.

1928

Standing on the site where 60 years ago business commenced in a small thatched
cottage, the Sawston Co-operative Society’s attractively reconstructed premises
were officially opened. The old exterior has been pulled down and an up-to-date
imposing front substituted. The Assembly Room upstairs has been dispensed with and
the whole floor made into a spacious furnishing department. The Boot Department,
which was formerly incorporated into the drapery section, is now entirely
independent. Since 1867 so much trade had been done that if members had left their
dividends and interest to accumulate it would have been possible to buy all the
property in Sawston and allow the members to live in their houses rent free.

1903

The second sale of goods seized from Cambridge Passive Resisters was conducted at
the Corn Exchange. Notwithstanding the presence of a large force of constables,
there was a good deal of disturbance, shouting and hissing and altogether it was a
complete fiasco. The auctioneer conducted the sale from behind a barrier of corn
merchants’ desks. The crowd made a determined attempt to break through and would
have succeeded but for the very active resistance of the police.

Thursday 25th September

1978

More reliable equipment to control the barriers of Cambridge car parks is being
sought because the council is losing so much money through breakdowns. The dropping
arms which control the entrances and exists are breaking down so often that
councillors are becoming seriously concerned. People drive out through broken gates
without paying. Now they will consider metal posts rising from small holes in the
exits

1953

Horace Hawks sends his famous port sausages all over the world from his shop in
Wellington Street, Newmarket. This week he offers a leg of pork to the oldest
married couple in Newmarket or Exning, the eldest married couple whose wedding
anniversary falls this week and the eldest lady living alone. Moons Cycle Depot is
an enterprising combination of youthful endeavour and experience and is expanding
its stock of cycles.

1928
Augustine Crossman, manager of the A.R.C. Knitting Works, Abbey Walk, Cambridge
told the court he had left his Morris Oxford car at the Drummer Street parking
place and when he returned it was missing. When found next day the spare wheel had
been changed, the tyre being seriously damaged. The inner tube had been taken out
and put under the rear seat. The body of the car had been strained, one of the
doors leaving a gap when closed and the bonnet had dropped away from the radiator.
A quantity of petrol and oil had been used and a pair of sun goggles stolen. The
damage came to something over £10.

1903

The Cambridge & County School for Boys, which during the past four years has been
very insufficiently accommodated at St Columba’s Hall, reached an important stage
in its career. The builders were displaced by the boys at the new school house that
has been erected upon Hills Road and henceforth the scholars will participate in
the manifold advantages that the most approved educational equipment, utilised
amidst ideal surroundings, can supply. Few buildings can possess such a curious
means of access. The boys are to make their entrances by means of a slope leading
into the basement where they can leave their bicycles, hats and coats before
climbing a broad staircase to the ground floor.

c.36.5

Friday 26th September

1978

Two St Neots ambulance men made a one-mile mercy dash by bicycle to treat an
injured man, because there was no ambulance. One had borrowed his wife’s machine
and the other used his own bicycle as they set off with first aid bags over their
shoulders. But on arrival they were ridiculed by onlookers. They were laughed at,
sworn at and generally made fun of for turning up on bikes. None of the station’s
ambulances were available. One ‘emergency use’ vehicle had broken down, two others
were in use and two ‘sitting case’ vehicles were also unusable, one with exhaust
trouble, the other with a puncture.

1953

Sheila Gay, Old Station Road, Newmarket caters exclusively for the lady who likes
to be fashionably dressed and has frocks, suits and evening gowns of the highest
quality whilst at Quant’s you can get the best boots and shoes and they are
displaying Moorland’s sheepskin footwear. Goldings are bespoke tailors in the real
sense of the word. They have made Jodhpurs and hacking jackets for most of the
leading jockeys.

1928

Newmarket R.D.C. Corners Committee inspected the corner at the junction of Pound
Lane with Church Street, Isleham. They were of opinion that an improvement could be
effected by the removal of the frontage wall to the site of the Pound, which abuts
on the corner, & by leaving the site open to the highway. The Parish Council is to
be asked to remove the wall with the possibility of a builder carrying out the work
in exchange for the materials. They then inspected a corner at the junction of
Fordham Road and Red Row Soham and recommend that tenders be obtained for taking
down 12 yards of concrete wall and rebuilding a new frontage five yards further
back.
1903

About 400 people were present at a meeting to support Cambridge council’s decision
to erect a boys’ school in Romsey Town to accommodate not less than 500. If ever a
district needed a school it was that one. The council had voted in favour by 23
votes to nine but four gentlemen had appealed against it. What larger majority did
they want. Romsey required a school in which their boys could secure a proper
education without going into the town.

c.36.5

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 29th September

1978

Protestors against the proposed closure of Park Street School Cambridge stepped up
their campaign by marching on the Guildhall. The television commentator and
personality, Clive James, who is leading the fight said: “There will be no
financial gain from closing the school. The main reason for shutting it seems to be
the size of the playground which they say is insufficient for the kids to fulfil
themselves”. Park Street Residents Association has joined the campaign as they feel
much of the community spirit of the area will be lost if the plans go ahead.

c.36.5
1953

Joshua Taylor staged a Fashion Parade, a popular event to which the womenfolk of
Cambridge look forward with keen anticipation. One of the mannequins modelled
clothes for the woman with the larger figure whilst another showed teenager styles
from the “Young Cambridge” department. There was no sign of M. Dior’s new shorter
skirt – this will not reach the provinces until next Spring, so women need not rush
to turn up the hems of the clothes they are wearing in order not to give away the
fact that they are not new. Drain-pipe corduroy slacks in navy and red vertical
stripes were worn with an off white wool and mohair jacket and there was a
beautiful fur coat in Russian ermine, priced at only £1,195 – pity I hadn’t got my
cheque book with me!

1928

The most disastrous fire seen in the fens for some years originated in West Fen
Farm, Ely. Owing to the bad state of the road the Brigade experience considerably
difficulty in getting close to the fire. The flames were twenty feet high and
showers of sparks floated about in all directions. In the midst of the blazing yard
was a valuable drum and elevator which was practically reduced to scrap iron. The
glow of the fire was noticed for miles around and many people who saw it motored or
cycled to the isolated scene.

1903

Buffalo Bill’s “Wild West” circus visited Ely. In the early morning many heavy show
waggons conveyed all the apparatus from the G.E.R. station to Gill’s Field, Common
Road where the work of fixing up the tents was watched with unflagging interest.
The programme opened with an overture, then a waggon train was seen to be crossing
the plains when it was attacked by marauding redskins. The cowboys opened fire and
after a sharp fight drove off the enemy. The show left an impression of wonder and
delight that cannot fail to remain for a long time to come.

Tuesday 30th September

1978

David Patrick, paddled down the River Cam in a boat which is thought to be the last
of its kind afloat on the river. He bought the Princess Jane when she was used as
just a floating platform for an overhaul of Ely High Bridge. It was pock-marked by
rust, her steam engines were removed and she was without a wheelhouse. Now he has
restored the paddle tug to its former glory. But sadly when the new steam engines
are fitted the boat will need deep moorings, of which there are few along the
river.

c.26.3

1953

The Matchless Motor Cycle Club brought their scramble season to a close with a
meeting at Balsham. International riders were in every event in which the experts
were not barred, the course was in fine condition and the largest crowd ever to
attend a scramble meeting in the district were entertained with a display of riding
which produced thrill after thrill. Brian Stonebridge was enthusiastically cheered
as he completed the final circuit of the “Devil take the hindmost” – the final
event

1928

Cambridge Watch Committee granted Messrs Brown Bros a further licence for a Lancia
coach to ply for hire at Drummer Street on condition that only one of their buses
is to stand there at any one time. But Ortona had six to 14 buses there at a time &
Messrs Brown advertised fares at 6d to a shilling cheaper. Ortona paid the Council
£250 towards the rates but if the public was being charged extra it was time this
was dispensed with. A custom had grown up amongst police and other to give Ortona
preference because they sent buses to various places, whilst the others went to
only one.

c.26.46

1903

Coun Morley said the Cambridge Borough Surveyor had met with an accident when
driving in the Corporation trap. It was time they should come more up to date and
go in for a motor. (Laughter). The Corporation had laughed at this before – they
generally did at any matter that was up to date. It was said that motors were not
reliable but he had one that had travelled 3,000 miles in six months and never had
a breakdown. Motor traction cost considerably less than a pony and trap - £20 a
year including petrol and everything else. He proposed that they buy a motor tandem
tricycle which would cost £75.

c.26.48

Wednesday 1st October

1978

A wealth of historic architecture has been discovered in a cottage at Town Green

Road Orwell which was thought to have been built in the 17th century but now has
been dated at 1540. Two original fireplaces have been uncovered along with Tudor
beams and windows. It was due to be demolished to make way for an old people’s home
but a campaign by Coun Peter King led to a change of heart and restoration is now
under way. When complete there will be very little change from the outside but
internally it will make a fine period home.

1953

Cambridge Women’s Physical Culture Club has now reached the mature age of 21 years
during which hundred of women have benefited by the teachings of the Misses
Marjorie and Mary Vinsen. In its early days the club received support of eminent
local gynaecologists. Teenagers, young mothers, housewives, businesswomen and
“young grandmothers” exercise at the Dorothy Café, building health and improving
their figures.

1928

Sir Horace Darwin, a son of Charles Darwin, died at his home, The Orchard,
Huntingdon Road, Cambridge having been in failing health for some time. By his
passing we have lost yet another distinguished son of inventive and scientific
genius and a personality who will be much missed. A former Mayor and chairman of
the Cambridge Instrument Company, he was much interested in the training of
mentally deficient children and helped to establish a home for them at Girton

1903

The result of the Rochester by-election was received in Cambridge about 10.20pm and
was announced to all and sundry by the ascent of the Cambridge Daily News balloon
with its coloured lantern attached. An alternative signal of a green flare from a
parapet overlooking St Andrew’s Street was also given, and the numbers were read
out from the door of the CDN. A large crowd assembled in the vicinity and the
announcement was received with cheers, mingled with an occasional groan. The news
was conveyed to the New Theatre where it was announced from the stage by Mr Charles
Gerant, who worked it cleverly into his dialogue. It was received with enthusiastic
and prolonged applause from all parts of the house.

Thursday 2nd October

1978

A lot of the blame for flood damage was due to councils who allowed houses to be
built with inadequate foundations, say Anglia Water Authority. They have largely
ignored advice from drainage authorities who were sometimes not consulted when
building in likely problem areas was given the go-ahead. Planning permission was
recently given to new developments in the Cambridge area where flooding could be
foreseen and no special arrangements were being made to ward off the threat

1953

With many new houses being erected and the old craftsmen passing out of service,
the Britain of tomorrow will be a nation of tumble-down houses unless more young
people come forward to be trained for a career in painting and decoration, said
H.O. Lagden. Apprentices could earn up to £2 a week at 15, and £10 as full
craftsmen. The standard of home decoration before the war was the highest that has
ever been reached but many of the trade today were very crude and at best semi-
skilled. As a result there was a great nation-wide ‘Do it yourself’ movement but
many might just as well have thrown their money in the street because they have not
done it properly and it won’t last. White lead paint was the most durable on the
market and it was to everyone’s advantage to use only the best materials.

1928

Cambridge Housing Committee was told some of the bays of Council houses in Romsey
Town had been pulled down and rebuilt after they had been occupied. Rumours that a
government inspector had been down and condemned some of the work were quite wrong.
It was not a question of work being badly done but it could be seen as one passed
down the road that they were out of the vertical. (Laughter). The clerk of the
works responsible was no longer in the employ of the council

1903
Mr A.E. Crawley from Hadstock wrote to The Daily Chronicle to say he experienced
difficulties getting labourers for farm work. He received quite 200 replies and
many men had tramped all the way down from London on the off-chance of getting a
job. He has employed five who are coming to live in the village and is passing
other applications to his friends who wanted workmen. This indicates a solution to
the problem of how to bring people back to the land.

Friday 3rd October

1978

Coypus, the large beaver-like rodents, could be eliminated more quickly and cheaply
if farmers were paid on the numbers they shot, say the Anglian Water Authority.
Trapping was an effective, if slow process demanding skill which many farmers did
not have. There was difficulty in recruiting the right kind of conscientious man
for trapping; it was an extremely lonely job and if he did it too well he did
himself out of work. The Government should pay half of the cost because it was to
blame for letting the pests into the countryside in the first place, 40 years ago.

1953

Don Arrol, the star of “Coronation Scots” at the New Theatre, officially opened the
new showroom of Messrs W.I. Cullin in Rathmore Road Cambridge. They have been
appointed Austin agents and the showroom has been built to exhibit and sell Austin
products. The garage, repair and servicing of commercial and private vehicles will
still continue. Guests were invited to the Goldsborough Hotel for cocktails where
everyone was given a souvenir propelling pencil.

1923

Charles Coborn, the veteran comedian famous for his singing of “Two Lovely Black
Eyes” and “The Man Who Broke the Bank at Monte Carlo” recalls an early visit to
Cambridge: “We were drummed out of Cambridge a day before we had arranged to leave
because of having infringed some Medo-Persian law of the Vice- Chancellor by
stationing ourselves on market day in some prohibited place”. He also met two gypsy
brothers named Smith who lived in caravans and supported themselves by chair
mending. One was father of the now well-known Gypsy Rodney Smith.

c.76

1903

Cambridge is a unique place in many respects, some not altogether enviable. The
number of judgement summonses is out of all proportion to the number of
inhabitants. The cause is easily explained. It is due to the enormous extent to
which the credit system obtains here, an extent unheard of in any other town in the
world. An excessive credit system inevitably means a number of bad debts – usually
for small amounts – and these gradually get into the hands of the professional debt
collectors who do not hesitate to bring their debtors into the County Court.

c.32.8

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 6th October

1978

A graph in this month’s parish magazine of St James’ church, Cambridge, tells the
story of David Ford’s time in Cambridge. It shows the number of communicants has
about doubled in the 12 years he has been vicar. Which is why for the second time
in its 24 years the church is going to have to be enlarged. It is an unusual story
for an age in which churches are supposed to be emptying and dying. The Gargoyles
youth club he founded is more lively than ever and his success with young people
has been recognised in his new appointment as vicar at Lewisham.

1953

In a hundred Victorian houses landladies are renewing notices in the bathrooms.

Along Sidney Street a young man in a yellow polo-neck sweater trundles a handcart
bearing a tin trunk, two leather bags, a violin case, a worn armchair, and a gaily-
painted bird-cage. His un-oiled hair slips sideways towards his ears as he pauses
to allow a busload of office workers to hurry by. Gently rumbling towards Magdalene
comes a mechanical horse towing twenty-two identical cabin trunks. A new term has
begun

1928

The advent of the Michaelmas Term finds hundreds of “Freshers” faced with the
problem of choosing a suitable wardrobe for University life. Grey flannel “bags”
have come to be universally associated with the ‘Varsity man and he would be well
advised to include two or three pairs in his outfit. Plus-fours however are
nowadays almost as popular as they are particularly adapted to an undergraduate’s
activities. It is best to choose a really good tweed mixture of a fairly bright
pattern.

1903

Jonas Leonard of Soham told magistrates he brought the growing crop of oats on Mr
Mainprice’s land and shocked it and raked between the shocks. The shocks were
carted and the rakings left on the land with four sheaves, two at each end of the
field to show the land was not cleared; this was the custom of the parish. But he
saw some 30 people, mostly children, clearing the field, taking litter for pigs.
The magistrates warned the defendants that they went on the land without authority
and must not run such a risk again.

Tuesday 7th October

1978

Cambridge’ Drummer Street bus station may be extended on to the adjoining Christ’s
Pieces within the next few years as County Council traffic experts and the bus
companies have agreed that expansion of the present site is the best way of
bringing it up to date. The facilities such as booking office, news-stands &
toilets are scattered, cramped and unsightly and there are no proper information
displays. The city council has suggested the station should be moved into the Kite
Area and Conservation interests prefer disused land near the railway station should
be used. But the County rejects both locations

1953

The fund for re-hanging the bells of Cambridge’s widely famed Great St Mary’s
church has raised under £1,000 of the £2,600 needed. The bells were taken down last
year because of the ravages of a wood-destroying parasite and now the CDN has
decided to open its own Bell Fund to supplement that sponsored by the church. All
contributions will be acknowledged in our columns and whether large or small they
may be handed in at our office. The CDN is opening its fund with a donation of £25
and hopes there will be a satisfying response.

c.69

1928

“Every member a sportsman and every sportsman a member” is the motto of the
Cambridge Town Football Supporters’ Club which came into formation at a meeting at
the Liberal Assembly Hall. They did not want supporters to grouse about players
because they had not done the right thing, they left that to the Football Club.
Supporters should not call out to the referee or players during a match and they
wanted to stop the use of any bad language.

1903

A meeting at Haverhill to revise
Risbridge and some amusement was
in that place, because there are
rates consisted of an unoccupied
resided Newmarket way
the voting lists considered the hamlet of Monk’s
caused when the Overseer said there was no voters
no residents. The only building liable to the
farm building and a brick wall, the owner of which

Wednesday 8th October

1978

Plans to reopen Kimbolton Sunday Market on a grander scale than ever before are
going ahead, despite opposition from the parish council. A planning application has
been submitted by a London firm of market operators, which envisages provision for
2,000 cars. They hope there will be about 150 stalls making it twice the size of
the old market, which was shut down after pressure from the council who threatened
injunctions under the Sunday trading laws. The firm is operating in co-operation
with the owners of the site, Kimbolton Show Associates.

1953

Ninety British schoolchildren got an inside view of a U.S. Air Force base at a
special “National Kids’ Day” open house at Mildenhall. The all-day programme
included a sight-seeing tour of base headquarters, technical sites and runways. At
the base fire department the children tried on fire helmets, asbestos fire-fighting
suits and rang the bells of the big fire trucks. At the control tower they listened
to radio directions to pilots and a full day of entertainment was topped-off with
group singing and refreshments in the Service Club.

1928

Conditions at the University Library have become more and more serious and in 1924
a Syndicate recommended a new library on a new site. Land was bought and plans
prepared by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, estimated at £500,000. But it was possible for
them to finance only half that amount. Now an offer has been received from the
Rockerfeller Foundation of a sum to enable the building of the complete library
without delay.

c.77.8

1903

Sir – being the parties responsible for the payment of the rates on the Baptist
Chapel House, Prickwillow, we decided to refuse payment of the new Education rate.
We sent a postal order for the remainder of the poor rate and directed the
collector to take what steps the law permitted to obtain the balance. Now we find
some ‘friend’ unknown has paid that balance for us and deprived us of the
opportunity of making the public protest we desired against the injustice of the
new rate. We do not appreciate this ‘kindness’ but protest against it as a piece of
uncalled-for and unwarranted interference – The Trustees of Prickwillow Baptist
Church

Thursday 9th October

1978

One way of improving the environment of the St Matthew’s area of Cambridge would be
to demolish many houses and widen the streets, says a City Council report. It
contains 1,415 houses that are among the worst in Cambridge in terms of lack of
amenities, structural repairs and the environment in which they stand. The problem
is the long narrow streets where a small amount of through-traffic become an
irritant and lorries cause congestion, noise and vibration. However well houses
are renovated the area will not be greatly enhanced until substantial improvements
are made to the environment.

c.49.4

1953

Girton has seen a terrific growth in the last 30 years and the village might have
been swamped had not the Town and Country Planning people stepped in just in time,
said H.J.C. Bashford. The population had grown from 534 people in 1911 to about
2,000 in 1940. The building of a laundry in 1896 had provided more work and
Cambridge itself had been making demands on Girton. In 1930 came the first
policeman and in 1933 street lighting was introduced, despite opposition from the
villagers. The last 30 years had seen the start of the Women’s Institute and the
opening of the first infant welfare centre.

1928

The Chief Constable of Huntingdonshire, Capt J. Rivett-Carnac, is learning to fly

and proposes to buy a Moth aeroplane. He said he was learning for fun: “Although in
these small planes you can take off and land in any field you cannot often get from
door to door within a county any more quickly than by motor-car. Only on very rare
occasions do I foresee the need of an aeroplane for my official duties”
1903

There has been speculation at Ely as to the identity of the unknown person who paid
the education part of Mr Cragg’s rate and thus prevented his appearance before the
magistrates and also a Nonconformist demonstration. Now it appears the Prickwillow
Baptists have been treated in a similar fashion. When Mr H. Drake of Sutton came
before the magistrates there were very few nonconformists in court as they were not
aware the case was coming forward. There will be much more heard of passive
resistance after the next rate has been levied.

Friday 10th October

1978

Milton parents and parish councillors are keeping an eagle eye on pupils crossing
the two-mile Milton bypass which opened this week. Police say there had no problems
with schoolchildren crossing the busy road between Impington Village College and
Milton. But all are concerned at the speed of traffic on the new road which is
expected to intensify when the northern by-pass opens just before Christmas. The
Minster of Transport has refused to concede the need for a footbridge, pointing out
that this could cost about £35,000.

1953

An unusual feature – for Newmarket at any rate – of the West Suffolk County Council
election is the fact that the two candidates in a straight fight are both receiving
official political backing. The Newmarket Labour Party has often sponsored
candidates but in officially backing Mr E.A. Dunham, the local Conservative party
embarks on comparatively new tactics. A well-known businessman he was chairman of
the U.D.C. and is one of the most active members of the Chamber of Commerce. His
opponent, Mrs Constance Barnard was a founder-member of the Newmarket Labour Party
and is a prominent member of the Co-operative movement.

1928

The chairman of the Ouse Drainage Board came in for some heckling at a meeting at
Cottenham. After the disaster in Southery Fen in 1915 and 1916 the work of the
Board had saved the entire South Level from being flooded last winter. But Mr
Wright-Graves said the value of the land had been brought down from £25 to £10 an
acre. The tax was more than the occupiers could bear and it would be better to have
a flood once in seven years.

c.29

1903

At St Matthews’ church, Cambridge a service of thanksgiving to Almighty God for his

mercies in delivering many from small-pox, scarlet fever and diphtheria was
conducted by the Vicar. Since the parish was formed 37 years ago nobody had known
anything like the amount of sickness God had been pleased to send them this year.
In eight months they had been visited by three terrible diseases, each taking a
large number of victims, 12 of which had proved fatal. How the people in the small-
pox huts on Coldham Common suffered and longed for health so as to escape what
seemed a prison. Those who were still convalescent wondered what was going on in
their homes and were looking forward to the time of their release. No one wanted to
stay in the huts a day longer than there were obliged to.
c.21.1

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 13th October

1978

Some of the long-disused offices above Cambridge’s Lion Yard shopping complex may
soon be turned into restaurants. The plans have been warmly greeted by councillors
who have complained for a long time about the empty space standing in one of the
city’s key commercial positions. The applicants want to rent the bulk of the ground
floor and turn it into two restaurants, one catering for general medium price trade
and the other as a high-class ‘night life’ restaurant. The three-storey office
block which contains thousands of square feet of space has been standing empty
since the development was completed three years ago.

c.49.4 : Lion Yard

1953

For four years Mr Ken Allen had had his name down on the waiting lists for a
council house. After all that time he decided he would wait no longer – and he set
to work to build his own home. On Monday he stood under his own roof. Inside and
out nearly a score of self-builders, members of the Cambridge Self-Build Housing
Association were putting in the window frames, hammering home the floorboards,
measuring here, sawing there and generally completing the interior of his house in
time for moving in before Christmas. The six-roomed semi-detached dwelling on the
Arbury Road housing site will have cost £1,300 – and for that he gets a house worth
£2,000.

c.23

1928

Cambridge Council of Share Out Clubs celebrated a ‘life’ of 20 progressive years at

a commemoration dinner. In 1908 it took seven or eight weeks to pay out a death
claim because the Secretary collected a “penny per nob” from each individual
member, now they were paid within two days. There was not a finer insurance system
to which one could belong. There were now 89 clubs and a membership of 4,360 and in
five years they had paid 260 claims amounting to £2,571.

1903

The passive resistance movement in Ely has suffered a temporary check. The
Nonconformists were intending to hold a large demonstration after Mr Cragg of Lynn
Road had appeared at the Police Court for non-payment of the education rate. All
preparations were made, the meeting place fixed and speakers engaged. But at the
last moment the defendant received notification that the rate and costs had been
paid. This caused great indignation amongst the Nonconformists, leading them to
abandon their programme.

Tuesday 14th October

1978

The long-running dispute over responsibility for repairing the only bridge over the
Old West River which gives access for thousands of visitors each year to the
Stretham pumping station has been settled. The County Council and a local farming
company have agreed to pay £1,000 each towards the cost of repairs. The dispute
began two years ago when the county closed the bridge because some of the structure
had collapsed and part of the roadway had fallen into the river. Now it will be
rebuilt and a bus turning area constructed for visitors to the engine which is
preserved as a museum attracting industrial archaeologists.

1953

A former Witcham Toll boy, aged ten, who appeared before Ely juvenile court was
said to have earned £2.5.0. a week looking after children’s roundabouts at
Hunstanton. He lived there with his parents and seven other children aged from
three to 15 years in two small tents and a number of corrugated-iron sheds roughly
knocked together and they had to crawl on all fours. It was altogether deplorable
that children, man and wife should be permitted to live in such primitive
circumstances.

1928

Negotiations have been concluded for a fusion of interests between the Oxford
Playhouse and the Festival Theatre, Cambridge and J.B. Fagan and Terence Gray will
be jointly responsible for the policy of both theatres. There will be an
interchange of companies between Oxford and Cambridge and the ultimate aim will be
the setting up of a theatre in London. When the ensuing term is finished the Oxford
Playhouse will be demolished and an entirely new theatre constructed.

c.76

1903

From certain events that occurred in Shamrock Passage, Newmarket Road, Cambridge
recently it appears that the virtues of the flat-iron as an aid to argument
continues to meet with dangerous recognition. One woman adopted this method of
silencing her neighbour who was rendered insensible. Complainant: “She flew out of
the house, shouted ‘You old ---, take that’. I went down and remember nothing
afterwards. Defendant: “When I came home you was wonderful drunk … you kicked me
and ‘busted my door open”

Wednesday 15th October

1978

The 600-ton Fenman express train, the fastest on the Cambridge run, smashed through
the level crossing gates at Shelford. Luck meant that none of the hundreds of
commuting motorists was on the spot and luck stopped the 11-coach train carrying
about 400 passengers being derailed. Luck also saved crossing-keeper Fred Bond as
the other gate wound itself round his line-side hut, splintering the woodwork,
smashing every window – but leaving intact the horseshoe nailed above the door. It
was the third time in nine years that a train had gone through the closed gates.

1953

The condition of the stone of the conduit head on Cambridge Market Hill has been
found to be much worse than anticipated during recent demolition work and so the
Council will be recommended not to rebuild it. The condition of the stone was such
that the only part which could be safely re-used was the four pillars and the cost
of restoration would be at least £4,000, double the previous estimate. They propose
to loan the carved figures from the conduit to the Folk Museum.

c.44.6 # c.24.2

1928

An inquest at West Wickham heard how a roadman met his death by falling from the
back of a steam roller. The driver said the deceased had been sitting on the tool
box at the back of the engine, which was towing four vehicles. At church corner the
man was all right but when he got round the corner a man shouted at him and he ran
back to find his colleague dead on the road in a pool of blood. The body was left
lying in the road for an hour before a policeman came and it was moved. The coroner
said that if people found a man hanging or anything like that it was their duty
morally to cut him down and try and save his life. It was not necessary to wait for
a policeman.

1903

A discovery has been made which seems to throw some light on the now happily
disappearing epidemic in Cambridge. A professor claims to have discovered a new
species of blood nematode which is productive of a disease called ‘craw-craw’ & has
many points in common with small-pox. He contacted the Cambridge Medical Office and
obtained blood films of a doubtful case of small-pox and on examining them found
the same nematode. But an expert who was consulted was quite clear that the
Cambridge outbreak must be an exceptional form of small-pox

c.21.1

Thursday 16th October

1978

British Rail seems rather attached to the traditional style level crossing gate.
Each time one is smashed to pieces by a train at Great Shelford they replace it
with a new one. The crossing is a traditional manned gate system – branded by a
Government report in 1968 as a ‘creaking anachronism’. Since then there have been
level crossing accidents at Shelford in January 1969 and October 1971, Longstanton,
Whittlesey, Prickwillow and Brinkley Road crossing near Newmarket. The sight of BR
workmen installing yet another manned gate at Gt Shelford has done little to allay
the public’s fears of their safety.

1953

A decision not to rebuild the Conduit head in Market Hill, Cambridge was described
as a retrograde step by Ald James. “I know it is the fashion to run down Victorian
architecture but I think it was very seemly. I think we should rebuild it in the
same style”. But Ald Priest said “If in ten years’ time people see pictures of the
Conduit as it was, there will be nothing to prevent them from replacing it by
photographs. The majority of people are quite satisfied and the Secretary of the
Preservation Society has written to say how nice we have made it”.

c.24.2 # c.44.6

1928

“Ain’t it all right and all”, jubilantly exclaimed a man in working attire after
looking round the new Cambridge Labour Club at Romsey Town. This remark expresses
the general appreciation of the handsome and well-appointed new premises which have
been built in their spare time by members of the various trade union organisations
to provide the Labour Party with a home of its own. It is nearly 2½ [TWO-AND-A-
HALF] years since the foundation stone was laid by Mr Ramsey MacDonald and since
then work has been going on steadily on nights and Sunday afternoons. The men have
been putting their hearts as well as their backs into the work and the result is a
club-house of which the builders may well be proud.

c.33

1903

Herbert Railton has contributed fifty drawings to the book ‘Cambridge and its
Story’ in the reproduction of which a new method of lithography has been employed
for the first time. The resulting prints have all the delicacy of pencil drawings
and the effect is much enhanced by a slight wash of colour added by his wife. No
such beautiful architectural drawings have been produced since the days of Samuel
Prout. A large-paper edition, of which 100 copies will be issued, will include an
original pencil sketch by Mr Railton with each copy

c.64

Friday 17th October

1978

Pleas from villagers at Oakington for South Cambs District Council to get rid of
‘slum’ homes for problem council tenants have been turned down. The Housing
Committee decided it needed the 30-year-old prefabricated bungalows at The Broadway
as temporary accommodation for problem families or the homeless. But Coun Tom
Flanagan said “It is very unfair to put so many problem cases into a small village
like Oakington. There is often violence in the area and the problem could erupt at
any time”. Other residents complained that the area was a ‘slum’ with an
‘unpleasant and dangerous environment’

1953

Mr Brin Newton-John, headmaster of the Cambridgeshire High School for Boys is

leaving after eight ‘very happy and very cheerful years’ to become Master of
Oremond College in the University of Melbourne, Australia. His three children,
including daughter Olivia, are tremendously excited about their voyage. Music is
one of his foremost interests and Cambridge will remember him for founding the
Combined Choir concerts in co-operation with the Girls’ County School.

1928

The churchwardens of Hauxton brought a suit against Mr J.H. Stevens of Brookside

Cambridge for repairs to the chancel of the church which was at present very much
out of order. The roof was sagging, rafter rotting and there were tiles off. Mr
Stevens was now owner of various lands, the profits of which had been used in the
past to pay for repairs. But he was not the lay rector or he would have the right
to sit in the principal place in the chancel. He had paid tithe but had not been
told of any responsibility to repair the chancel, if he had know he would not have
bought the land.

1903
One hears of many curious accidents to cyclists but one which befell a Histon
cyclist near Cottenham was quite unique. A cat became entangled between the spokes
and the fork of the front wheel of his machine and was so badly injured that it
died. Usually cats manage to steer wonderfully clear of machines but this
unfortunate feline must have dashed right into the cyclist’s front wheel

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 20th October

1978

Over the last four years Cambridge city council has completed many major housing
schemes – estates like King’s Hedges, Fulbourn Old Drift and Walpole Road. And the
government’s new schools, fire stations and other building also proved a boon to
the casualties of the time – building contractors and architects. But there has now
been a cut in new town development, and home building involving architects
virtually ceased overnight. In the past year there has been an upturn in private
house building, but it is nowhere near the boom of the 1960’s.

1953

While Bassingbourn Village College was being built last winter, 2,250 bricks used
in the foundations disintegrated, accompanied by another 2,000 stand in stacks.
They were common wire-cut bricks from a firm in the Midlands and seemed not to have
been properly baked. They looked fit to be used and had been submitted to the
County Architect. The brick-makers said they would not have supplied such bricks
for foundations, but the architect had specified them. The site was open and bricks
were affected by frost. Other bricks had been supplied by the National Coal Board.

1928

In Salisbury Villas, Station Road, Cambridge is an embryo Missionary School of

Tropical Diseases and Hygiene. Since its inception 85 missionary candidates have
received instruction in anatomy, bacteriology and medicine to enable them to care
for their own health when far from qualified aid and alleviate sickness and
suffering on the field where they will be working. It was founded by the Rev. E.S.
Fellowes-Farrow and housed in rooms in his private residence.

c.21.1

1903

An instance of the usefulness of the telephone as an aid to the detection of crime

was demonstrated at the Cambridge Police Court. Detective Marsh was informed of the
theft of a bicycle from Mr Edwards of Emmanuel Street and given the description of
the suspect. He telephoned to Bishop Stortford and Herts police arrested the man
near Buntingford. The prisoner told the court “If I had had another hour I should
have been in London”.

c.27.8

Tuesday 21st October

1978

People wanting a council house in Cambridge now stand a much better chance of being
allocated one than they would have done four years ago. Not only has the waiting
list shortened it has been opened up to many more people. Single people living and
working in the city can now go on to the list at 21 instead of waiting until they
are twice that age, and pensioners whose only connection is that their children
live in the city can also go on the list. Nowadays young people move away to work
which means the social services have to help out with the parents when they get
old. Allowing pensioners to move closer to their children will relieve pressure on
the social services.

1953

For as long as Ely Cathedral stands so will the memory remain of 1,700 men and
women of Cambridgeshire who gave their lives in the last war. Over 3,000 people
joined in the dedication of the County War Memorial. Earlier hundreds had packed
themselves four deep to watch one of the most impressive displays this ancient city
had ever seen including a yellow and blue mass of 100 British Legion standards with
900 men and women from practically every branch in the county.

1928

Cambridge Guardians have sanctioned the provision of a cinematograph at the Poor

Law Institution. A Kodascope machine will be installed and a subscription raised to
cover the cost of £1 a week. The provision of music on cinematograph or wireless
was just as much part of the Institution as providing medical and dental treatment.
The also considered the installation of a system of telephones

c.76.9 # c.32.9

1903

There was another heavy downpour of rain; the Cam has but in a few places
overflowed its banks and the ferries between Cambridge and Chesterton are still
working. The Granta has not behaved so well and the water is already over the
banks; there is a vast expanse of water with the tops of the hedges and the trees
only showing. At Grantchester mill the road is knee deep. The basement of houses in
Newmarket High Street are flooded as are some of the low-lying streets at Saffron
Walden and the railway line at Chesterford is threatened with being submerged.

c.46.5

Wednesday 22nd October

1978

The Varsity Handbook’s pub guide includes a bitter attack on several Cambridge
pubs. At The Horse and Groom, King Street it claims “the beer is foul, the bar
dirty and the landlord unpleasant”. The Pickerel, Magdalene Street, fares little
better: “Foul place, selling foul beer and swamped by inhabitants of a certain
nearby college”. Whitbread pubs in particular come in for a bad time: “Why does
Whitbread charge so much money for their freezing cold fizzy beer”, it asks. But it
likes the Baker’s Arms, East Road - “friendly and near a fish and chip shop”

1953

This is Home Guard recruiting week with the object of increasing the size of this
vital branch of our reserve army. When the Government decided it was necessary to
resuscitate the Home Guard it was appreciated that the task was a difficult one.
The appeal was directed towards middle-aged men who had previously seen service.
The exceptional commitment of the Regular Army abroad made it imperative that there
should be an organised body trained and ready to cope with emergencies in the event
of war. It must contain people who know the local geography of their area
intimately, in every parish and hamlet.

c.45.8

1928

The ancient parish church of Caxton has long been in a sad state of decay. The
chancel, nave and tower, floor, walls and roof have been unsafe for some years.
Last year toadstools were growing at the foot of the pillars, which were green with
fungus, and ivy grew through cracks. Huge lumps of plaster continually falling from
the ceiling have made it dangerous for worship in the nave. Water poured through
the roof in twenty places, the walls were crumbling and the floor in the last
stages of rot. Scarcely a pew can be used again and hardly a rafter is free from
rot. The population is small and consists of agricultural labourers but they have
already raised £100 and now appeal for funds.

1903

The Rev Dr. J. Mayo sued the churchwardens of Mepal. He said he had been requested
to come from Cambridge on a Sunday to preach in the absence of the vicar; his
charge was £2.2.0 with 5s.9d. expenses. The judge said the sum seemed not too much
for the services he had rendered and he hoped the money would come immediately the
judgement was pronounced. He trusted the churchwardens would pay it, and not the
new incumbent.

Thursday 23rd October

1978

The jobs of Cambridge firemen are safe in spite of a major shake-up suggested in an
official county council report aimed at improving the cost effectiveness of the
Fire and Rescue Service. It hints that Parkside fire station is over-manned,
particularly at night. A reduction in the number of full-time crews should be
considered with a new fire station in the north of the city. Huntingdon fire
station should be reduced to day manning on a seven-day basis and changes are also
suggested at Ely. Proposals could involve the deployment of existing staff and they
may need extra firemen when the new 42-hour week starts next month

1953

A portrait salvaged from a workmen’s rubbish dump at Corpus Christi College, said
to be of Christopher Marlowe, bears a resemblance to an engraving of Shakespeare
which appeared in the First Folio of the plays in 1621. No other portrait of
Marlowe, who was at the college from 1581 to 1587, exists. American experts have
little doubt that it is of Shakespeare which could mean that the descriptions of
the countryside described in his plays are really based on Cambridgeshire scenes
and not around Stratford. The portrait, on a wooden panel & split almost in three,
is now being restored.

c.64

1928

The ‘Cambridge Chronicle’ newspaper applied for a renewal of the lease of their
printing works in Market Hill. For the last 100 years they have carried on business
there, they were the best-known works of the kind and if they were obliged to quit
the machinery and plant would be very costly to transfer. But the owner said she
intended to pull down the premises to carry out a scheme of development.

c.04

1903

Ald Spalding said the Free Library was a very worthy institution, but it was
supported by the rates of the town & these should be used in opposition to
legitimate businesses. There were three lending libraries in Cambridge, the
proprietors of which paid a considerable sum of money for the rates. He did not
think it right that the Library enter into competition by offering the use of
fiction and the other advantages of the Library to county residents for the minimum
annual subscription of 5s. It was not fair and should be discontinued.

c.77.4
Friday 24th October

1978

A group of Madingley parents have won their battle to buy the tiny village school
at an auction when they competed against one other buyer, a local property
developer. He was greeted by jeers as he left the hall by parents who felt he had
pushed the bidding up and wasted no time in telling him so. The building finally
made £39,500. Parents are delighted but now face a major problem to find enough
money to keep the school going as a co-operative. It will not be fee paying but
gifts and grants will be sought.

1953

Children playing in a hut at Wimpole Park found some tins of a poison used for
killing vermin and opened them with axes. The poison is only dangerous when made
moist and then it gives off a deadly fume. On Wednesday night the atmosphere was
moist and the fumes filled the hut, killing five ferrets which were caged.
Yesterday a doctor from the American camp smelt the fumes and called the fire
brigade. Firemen using breathing apparatus and wearing rubber gloves removed the
poison and buried it with the ferrets in the middle of a wood.

1928

“There are probably a large number of people in Cambridge who would like to pull
down half the colleges for street widening purposes and more who would be entranced
by a design for a new King’s College Chapel, done by the Borough Surveyor and
suitably embellished with pagodas & geraniums”, claims The Observer. The article
includes the headlines ‘A Threat to Cambridge. The Vandal on the Backs. Blackpool-
on the-Cam’. It reveals how ignorant they are of modern Cambridge opinion.

c.49.4

1903

The King went out for his customary horseback exercise on Friday morning earlier
than usual, the weather being delightful. He was on Newmarket Heath shortly before
nine and spent upwards of an hour cantering over the greensward. After watching the
horses exercising His Majesty returned to his rooms and subsequently proceeded in
an open carriage to the races. On his return his carriage only just escaped being
run into in congested traffic by a heavy vehicle whose horses were pulled on their
haunches to prevent the collision.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 27th October

1978

About 150 people have signed a petition protesting against District Council plans
to spend up to £4,000 on a skateboard rink at the recreation ground in Newmarket
Road, Royston. Campaigners fear that the proposal to use the area both as a
skateboard rink and a car park could be hazardous to both children and motorists.
They are also worried about more youngsters being attracted: “There is already a
lot of vandalism, bullying and noisy larking about”, they complain. Royston town
council agrees than any money for skateboarding should be spent at the Meridan
Centre where there is already a skateboarding park run by a youth worker.

1953

London County Council proposes to settle 5,000 Londoners in Sawston, parish

councillors were told. They would be a cross-section of the community and their
employment would be arranged in various light industries that would be established.
There was certain to be further industrial development in the village over the next
20 years and it would be better if the development could be orderly. The proposals
would be bound to cause some dislocation in their life but if the national interest
demanded the growth of Sawston it was the duty of the Parish Council to press for
the development of amenities.

1928

Judgement was given in the case brought by Hauxton Parochial Church Council
relating to the liability to repair the chancel of Hauxton parish council. After
investigation of ancient documents it was found that liability for such repair
devolved upon the person who owned certain lands. Although he denied that he had
been made aware of this when he brought the land, Mr Stevens had paid certain
sums to the vicar, which had been another part of the responsibilities specified.
It was therefore adjudged that he was indeed responsible for the repairs to the
chancel.

1903

The marriage of the niece of General Sir John French was celebrated at Hemingford;
in order to attend the ceremony the distinguished soldier passed through St Ives
where the Mayor and Corporation extended him a civic welcome. The town has
witnessed no such excitement since the unveiling of the Cromwell statue.
Inhabitants decorated their houses with flags and bunting and a contingent of the
Hunts Volunteers, the Fire Brigade and Boys’ Brigade paraded with a brass band.

Tuesday 28th October

1978

Cambridge sewage treatment works have been accused of turning the River Cam into
one of the dirtiest, smelliest and most turgid stretches of water in the country.
Now the works have been transformed into Anglian Water Authority’s pride and joy –
almost. It has been their top priority project but has generated fierce controversy
with an eighteen-month sewage embargo prompting sharp criticism from local councils
anxious to go ahead with development plans. At present the works cope for a
population of 120,000, and there is scope for 165,000. But the river itself is
already near the top of the Department of the Environment classification for
chemical pollution.

c.21.1 # c.46.5

1953

Not one village in Newmarket RDC area is now without a main water supply after the
formal opening of Chippenham pumping station. It is the first rural authority in
East Anglia to succeed in taking a piped water supply to every parish. Previously
three villages had no piped water at all and on occasions water had to be taken to
the towers in the high level by the fire brigade, at a cost of £100 a time. They
are now able to supply farms and industrial undertakings for the first time. But
the scheme was not cheap and the main pumps alone used 11s. 6d. worth of electric
power every hour

1928

Haverhill Literary Institute committee drew attention to the very small sum placed
in the collection box at the Reading Room during the year. It had always been the
rule that the Institute should be open to non-residents but they would be expected
to show their appreciation by contributing something towards the expenses. Judging
from the amount received the privilege was not valued very highly as the average
income was twopence-halfpenny a week. The reading room was used very largely by
outsiders, especially on market days. Such habitual users should become members

1903

An aquatic entertainment of a unique kind was given on the Cam by Leonard F.

Durell. It consisted of a genuine exhibition of log rolling. The log, not very
large, was painted red, white and blue. He jumped lightly on it, spun it into mid
stream, then sat down and, using a long pole, commenced his journey. Along the
Backs of the Colleges he performed various revolutions and arrived at his
destination without mishap. There his feats were little short of marvellous; he
stood on his head on a chair resting on the log and was heartily applauded.

c.46.5

Wednesday 29th October

1978

The level-crossing keeper at Great Chesterford described his day: “You learn the
sleep through the trains, even though they rush right next door to the house and
almost shake you out of bed. The gates are open to trains until 7 am, after that
they’re open to traffic. You don’t often get woken up in the night – about once
every two months a driver wants to get through; according to regulations you’re
allowed 20 minutes dressing time, but I don’t bother. You have to put up with all
sorts of things. People flushing the train loo over the crossing or impatient lorry
drivers who use your garden as a lavatory if they’re kept waiting. The other day
the bell broke down and so I didn’t open the gates. Next thing there was this darn
great express sitting there, hooting at me”

1953

Cambridge citizens were shaken to hear rifle fire in the city and see groups of
khaki-clad men dashing about on Jesus Green and Parker’s Piece. Members of the
Cambridge Home Guard were carrying out exercises, culminating in an attack on Hobbs
Pavilion where the ‘enemy’ was wiped out. The exercise served the purpose of
bringing the Home Guard to the notice of the public.

c.45.8

1928

Viscount Ennismore, the Cambridge undergraduate who is the son and heir of the Earl
of Listowel, has decided not to use his title. In future he wishes to be known by
his family name as plain “Mr Hare”. The Viscount, who is at Magdalene College, has
been talked of as a Socialist but he definitely denied belonging to the Labour
Party. “I am a member of the University Labour Club, but we are merely a body of
young men interested in progressive politics. It is a matter of conscience: I feel
I have enjoyed an unfair advantage and believe that titles are an artificial
distinction”, he told a CDN reporter.

1903

The Pistols Act for the regulation of the sale and use of pistols and other
firearms has come into force. It is now illegal to sell or hire a pistol to anybody
without a gun or game licence unless he is a householder and purposes to use the
pistol only in his own home or is going abroad for six months. Persons under
eighteen years of age may not buy, use or carry a gun, subject to a fine of £2. The
sale of pistols to insane or intoxicated persons is prohibited. The provisions do
not apply where an antique pistol is sold as a curiosity or an ornament.

Thursday 30th October

1978

St Neots may become the first town to have a battery-operated bus. The idea arose
when County Councillors gave the go-ahead for a battery-driven mobile library and
considered where other such transport would be suitable. It needs a small town
where frequent battery charges were possible and where there were many estate roads
where people are not keen on large noisy, smelly motor buses. Battery buses should
be almost maintenance-free and would carry 25 passengers. Such vehicles are not yet
in production but councillors would approach development groups and expect to
attract government money.

1953

An old-established ironmongery and harness business at Melbourn, J.E. Hagger and

Son, has finished trading because of the increase in the use of motors and tractors
and the consequent decline in the demand for harness work. It had been founded at
the end of the 19th century. Before the war two harness makers and two apprentices
were employed but now there was scarcely sufficient work for one man. At the small
Bassingbourn branch, opened in 1911, one man worked on making and repairing
harness.

1928

Newmarket was deeply shocked by the news that Mr Fred Archer, the well-known
racehorse trainer and nephew of the famous jockey, had been thrown from his car and
killed in collision with a stationary bus in Woodford High Street. Mr Archer was
alone in the car, a big limousine. Until recently he trained for Lord Glanely at
Newmarket. His greatest achievement was the winning of the Grand National in 1925
with Double Chance, a horse given him by Anthony de Rothschild as being useless for
racing but which went on to win eight races.

1903

The Passive resistance movement at Newmarket has reached a new stage; a fortnight
ago 21 persons were summoned for non-payment of the poor rate, warrants were issued
and the unpleasant task of distraining goods fell to the police. They called at the
defendant’s homes while they were there and selected one or two articles they
considered of sufficient value to cover the rate and cost. These will be auctioned.
One of the Resisters will probably buy the goods in; the sale is hardly likely to
last more than a few minutes and be free from any disturbance.

Friday 31st October

1978

Skateboard firms have been quietly going out of business over the summer. Few of
the country’s 84 skateparks have proved a success and a recent survey claimed that
there were only 15,000 skaters left. This has spelled disaster to hundreds of
would-be skateboard tycoons. In Cambridge there is still a hard core of skaters who
show no sign of losing interest. You can find them most weekends up at the
Cheddar’s Lane skateboard park. “I wouldn’t dream of giving up” said one 14-year-
old. “I am at the height of it and I want to get more stuff”. But stuff is not
cheap; a reasonably sophisticated board and set of protective clothing can set you
back as much as £65

c.38 : roller

1953

There is a big demand in Cambridge for caravans – but there is nowhere to put them,
two Milton caravan site proprietors told an inquiry. “Young couples have the
deposit but they won’t have them because we cannot guarantee them a site in the
area, near their work”. There is a large site at Gt Shelford but when people buy a
caravan on the hire purchase they just cannot afford £1 a week rent for the site.
They proposed to have 14 caravans adjoining the White Horse and 30 alongside the
Milton Laundry. The Parish Council had no objections.

1928

What is probably the largest single deal in Cambridge business property ever known
has just been completed. A well-known local young man has purchased property with
frontages in Market Hill, Petty Cury and Sidney Street and this will be developed
by a company consisting of Cambridge people. It includes premises occupied by the
Craft Shoe Company, the Cambridge Chronicle offices and printing works and Boots
the chemist. As Messrs Boots recently secured a large amount of property in Petty
Cury and Sidney Street it would appear that big changes will be seen in this part
of town when both sites are developed.

c.06 # c.49.4

1903

Some inhabitants of Gamlingay imagine they on the verge of acquiring riches. In the
serial running in “Tit Bits” the publishers have inserted clues indicating the
whereabouts of hidden gold. Lately a considerable number of strangers have been
prowling round the “Old Moon” in the hope of unearthing £100. The inhabitants of
the Cinques have not been slow to make their own deductions; a systematic search is
being carried on and excavations are being made by those afflicted with the gold
fever.
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 3rd November

1978

Dorothy Grainger’s tiny cluttered cottage in Burwell is full of her pictures – not
framed or in albums but stuffed into old boxes and wrinkled paper bags. She was
that sort of photographer, nothing fancy or arty. Just plain, professional pictures
that told the story she had been paid to tell. Now nearly 84 she rides a motorised
wheelchair, but loves to relive the days when she roamed the Fens on a motorbike
with her heavy wooden tripod and half-plate camera strapped on her back.

1953

Cambridge Women’s heard that television would be one of the most powerful social
influences in years to come and although only a minority of the ladies had sets
that was no reason why they should be indifferent. The BBC had done a wonderful job
over the years but sponsored television would bring the sensational, the tawdry,
sex appeal and false glamour.

1928

There is much speculation regarding the £42,000 Cambridge Market Hill deal; a large
cinema and café are spoken of, but there are no details at present. It would be for
the benefit of the town if the whole island site could be taken over by the
Corporation; then as the leases run out it could be cleared and would provide a
magnificent site for municipal buildings. Road traffic now demands that all
building operations should be planned for what will be needed in the future, with a
wider Petty Cury, Market Hill and Sidney Street. Something of the sort must
eventually be done unless it is the intention to remove the Guildhall and market
nearer the station.

1903

The working or telephones and telegraphs throughout Europe was disorganised in

consequence of a magnetic storm, attributed to the influence of the Solar activity
in the form of sun-spots. The effect was noticeable in the telegraphic instrument
room at Cambridge Post Office where strong deflections of the needles of the
telegraph instruments were noticed, but fortunately this did not delay the
transmission of messages. One example of the disorganisation of electrical
communication was that the full lists of results of the League matches on Saturday
were not, as they usually are, contained in the 6.30 edition of the Cambridge Daily
News

Tuesday 4th November

1978

A few pounds of gelignite put paid to the 120-foot chimney of the old riverside
hosiery mill at Huntingdon. It was blasted to rubble by explosives expert George
Williams who divides his time between running the University Arms pub at Sawston
and destroying chimneys. He had demolished more than 100 and claims a world record
for bringing down 10 brickworks chimneys simultaneously near Peterborough. The
Huntingdon mill is being renovated by a London-based international company for use
as a hotel or leisure centre.

1953

The Headquarters of the U.S. Army’s 32nd Anti-aircraft Artillery Brigade has moved
from Mildenhall where it has been since 1951. The Commanding Officer wrote to the
Mayor of Cambridge to express appreciation for the splendid hospitality shown; many
personnel have resided in the area and lasting friendships have developed which
will contribute to a closer relationship and stronger bond of understanding between
the British people and the American forces.

1928

A Lolworth couple were sentenced to six months hard labour for wilful neglect of
their four children. They were extremely dirty and verminous and their clothes, the
shirts in particular were almost incredibly dirty. The boots were so bad it would
be better if they went barefoot. Their beds consisted of old sacks filled with
flock and covered with ragged blankets and coats, they were saturated and smelt
abominably. The husband was a good working man but the woman made no effort to keep
the house or her children clean, and was something of a millstone round his neck.

1903

In recent years so many gloomy predictions have been made concerning the decline in
the birth rate that Lincolnshire Agricultural Society offered a prize for the
labourers who had brought up the greatest number of children. It was won by Thomas
Hought of Market Rasen with a record of 19 children born, 17 brought up and 12
placed out. It is quite refreshing to find that John Bull has still left a remnant
of sturdy sons and daughters possessing the faculty of perpetuating their species.
That such large families should still be common in rural districts at a time when
the urban birth rate is declining is proof of the damaging effects of city life and
air upon the national health and vitality.

Wednesday 5th November

1978

When parents succeeded in buying Madingley School in order to keep it open they
knew the hard bit was yet to come. The national newspapers have gone now, leaving
the 14 children and Mrs McKay, their head, to start the second half of term back in
their old school buildings. Some educationalists will be looking to prove pet
theories about small schools, politicians will be looking at balance sheets and
parents in a similar plight will want to know if they could do the same. The
immediate future presents no problems but the parents have been doing their sums
and believe they will have to raise about £100,000 to be sure of the school’s long
term future.

1953

The new Shire Hall court will not be an ‘extravagant’ but ‘a fine utility’
building, councillors were assured. They did not want panelling in every room and
expensive carpets on the floor. Some wanted to build the new Court with an open
frontage to the street, but it could not be done, as the site was not big enough.
If they pulled down the existing police station and played ‘Old Harry’ it might be
possible but on one side is the Castle Mound and there would be trouble galore they
interfered with this.

1928

A disastrous fire resulted in the almost total demolition of the famous old water
mill at Grantchester. The flames spread with such rapidity that within 30 minutes
the position seemed helpless. The interior was just like a flaming cauldron,
presenting a fiery beacon for miles around. The fire originated in the engine room
where there was an oil engine, chemical extinguishers were tried without result.
The men were beaten back by the smoke and flames; several were unable to save their
coats and three bicycles had to be left to the flames. The only lives known to be
lost were those of a cat and her kittens but it is thought some rats were also
trapped, judging by the squeaks that were heard during the progress of the fire.

1903

The Cambridge and County School for Boys was formally opened bridging that gulf
from primary to higher education which has been such a blot on our new national
system; now a secondary education is placed within reach of that very wide class
previously content with elementary education only. The progress of the school has
been phenomenal; on the opening day three years ago 41 boys presented themselves;
each term saw an increase and now there are no fewer than 210 scholars.

c.36.5

Thursday 6th November

1978

A wave of panic buying hit shops as housewives rushed to buy bread a full three
days before a threatened national bakers’ strike is due to start. Sainsbury’s store
in Coldham’s Lane Cambridge has rationed people to just two loaves and How’s bakery
in Mill Road said that all stocks were sold out by lunchtime. A Tesco in Regent
Street exceptionally heavy buying emptied the shop of bread by mid-morning. Anxious
shoppers out to stock up their freezers with loaves were described as “greedy” by
shopkeepers. The strike is not yet a certainty and independent bakeries are not
involved.

1953

Will there be “another Morris Oxford factory” on the doorstep of Cambridge

University? Under proposals to send London ‘overspill’ population to Sawston the
village would be expanded from its present 2,000 population to 7,500; it is simply
a case of bringing out groups of people with industry and putting them into the
country. When local people realise that it is a national problem they will either
decide for or against, in which case as far as Sawston is concerned the matter will
cease.

1928
Sir – I apologise to the many residents of Histon and Impington who responded to
our invitation to witness a demonstration of phono films from our Conservative
Association touring van. Owing to the obviously organised attempts to cause damage
to the van and its valuable machinery by the continuous throwing of large fireworks
I considered it unwise to give the demonstration. We advocate the fullest freedom
to all political parties to place their propaganda before the public but the
opposition which was meted out to us that night, under cover of the fog, was
unworthy of any body of Englishmen – Walter W. Light.
1903

The recent completion of the Atlas Stone Company works at Coldham’s Lane will add
to the industrial importance of the Romsey Town and Cherry Hinton districts of
Cambridge. A complete plant for the manufacture of artificial paving slabs on the
most up-to-date principles has been installed with a hydraulic press capable of 500
slabs per day worked by electric power. The chief market is in London and the
Eastern Counties where the value of artificial flags for footways has been firmly
established.

c.23 # c.27.1

Friday 7th November

1978

Within two years the Government intends to start demolishing its sprawling concrete
and asbestos single-storey offices at Brookland’s Avenue, Cambridge. The
development began during the war years, rapidly mushroomed and became the city’s
largest office complex employing upwards of 2,000 people in seven major departments
over the 30-acre site. New offices, laboratories and stores are being planned
together with roads and parking. Any land that the Property Services Agency does
not want would be offered to the city council for road widening schemes or to
housing associations.

1953

The navigator of a RAF Canberra jet bomber was rescued when the plane crashed into
a café at Beck Row, near Mildenhall. The pilot was killed. The proprietor of the
café said the plane destroyed the back of his premises, smashed his kitchen table,
flattened his car and plunged the whole place into darkness. The jet finished up in
his back garden, straddling a chicken run and churning up his vegetables. It must
have missed the roof by inches and it was a miracle no one in the café was killed.

1928

Sir – in last nite’s paper it was sed there is a lot of drinking in the Kolleges
and someone asked what does the waiter think of it. The waiter thinks it’s a dry
job, that’s all – just a job and a boiled shirt and somebody’s second-hand dress
suit. The yarn about Kollege feasts is all rot: there is a lot of drinking – they
drink enough water to drown three or four Rev Gentlemen – Sam

1903

Time once was when the concentrated animosity between Cambridge Town and Gown found
annual outlet on ‘The Fifth’. There are many old inhabitants who have seen the
traditional riots gradually die down with the building up of mutual ties between
University and Town. Athletic Varsitymen and pugilistic townsmen no longer belabour
each other; they join issue in attempts at bonfires with police baiting thrown in
as a sideline. At Castle End undergraduates managed to secure a shutter with the
intention of making it the nucleus of a bonfire; a constable was rolled to the
ground, his helmet knocked off and his whistle and truncheon lost before more
policemen arrived and three arrests were made – one member of the Varsity, a
soldier and a townsman.

c.36.9
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 10th November

1978

Prince Charles parried questions on his success with women when he spoke at the
Cambridge Union. “I often think my best way out is to announce my engagement to
Gladys Thrumm. The wedding presents would arrive and then I would call it all off
and then I could be free to go about and see all sorts of people”, he said. He was
presented with a bath plug mounted on a wooden shield which came from the rooms he
occupied when a student at Trinity College. It was signed by Mrs Florence Moore who
cleaned the rooms and was in the audience.

c.02

1953

A wartime German bomb was discovered 30 feet from the Mildenhall railway line at
Exning Halt, near Burwell. For over 11 years trains had passed the spot,
blissfully unaware that hidden less than a foot beneath the ground was a bomb large
enough to cause an unpleasant explosion. It was found by John Debenham who was
ploughing a field when he struck something which broke a peg in his plough. “We
soon realised it was a bomb and thought of pulling it out with a chain”, he said.
But instead he reported it to the police.

1928

The Lord Lieutenant, Ald. C. Adeane said that a fatal accident at the Babraham
cross-roads might have been prevented had they put up motor caution signs but the
County Council had declined to do so. With the increase in traffic and speed of
motor cars a grave responsibility rested upon them, such signs should be erected at
all dangerous points. At another dangerous cross on the Great North Road at Eaton
Socon the side roads had now been brought into the main road at such an angle that
it was virtually impossible to have an accident and something similar should be
done at Babraham.

1903

Under Government regulations no child can be boarded out with foster-parents of

different religious denominations to that in which the child is registered. At
Cherry Hinton a girl had been fostered with a couple who took very great interest
in her. At the time they took her the wife was undoubtedly Church of England and
the husband went nowhere. Since then he had started going to the Baptist Chapel and
his wife felt it her duty to go with him and take the child. Now the Ladies
Boarding-Out Committee had threatened to take the child away from them. Being
Government servants they must obey the rules and regulations laid down for their
guidance.

Tuesday 11th November

1978

Telephone Bill was at a loss to know who to phone up when he needed to recruit a
new Smooth Operator. After two years of close comradeship touring together as
professional musicians Nick Barraclough’s band faced its first personnel change
when Rob Appleton left. Then Nick heard Steve Reynolds singing at the Cambridge
Folk Club; he had played alongside them locally on many occasions and was pleased
to accept the invitation to join the group which soon begins an extensive nation-
wide tour with Max Boyce.

1953

One hundred years of cricket was celebrated at Sawston. T.F. Teversham said:
“Thomas Sutton Evans was rather an unpleasant individual, but in 1853 he bought a
field, Spikes End, and thanks to him Sawston’s cricket stands high”. He went on to
mention Bill Warren, Jim Sunshine and Bill Cockell, all Cambs men who by their
ability had given something to local cricket and together with Mr Peter Taylor, a
perfect model for all young batsmen, and Mr ‘Shine’ Ridgeon of St Giles cricket
club joined in the celebrations.

1928

An explosion in Lensfield Road, Cambridge brought people to their doors and it was
seen that the cover of a large manhole in the pavement had been blown into the air
and flung on the roadway where it had smashed. Fortunately there was no one near at
the time and no personal injury. Even a horse standing by attached to a milk cart
was untouched and apparently unperturbed by the untoward happening. The manhole
contains GPO telephone cables; two employees were at work at a smaller manhole,
about 80 yards away. They were applying a blowlamp when the explosion took place;
it is thought the two manholes are connected and the flame must have ignited gas.

1903

One hardly expects in the present day to find a highwayman abroad in the early
hours of the evening. But Stephen Hagger, a farmer of Stapleford had just crossed
the Stump Cross when a man rushed from under the hedge and called upon him to stop.
Hagger however spurred his horse and galloped off but two pistol shots were fired
at him; on arriving home he examined his hat and found a hole in it, such as might
have been made by a revolver bullet.

Wednesday 12th November

1978

Bourn Hall could soon be the world’s first test tube baby clinic. Cambridge
physiologist Dr Robert Edwards and gynaecologist Mr Patrick Steptoe, who pioneered
the first test tube baby birth in Oldham, have been looked for a suitable based in
the Cambridge area. Now an investment company has applied for consent to change the
use of the Hall from residential into a private clinic. It has been the home for
the past 20 years of Coun Peter King, a leading expert on the restoration of old
buildings.

1953

A new agency on the lines of the successful “Universal Aunts” in London has opened
in Cambridge. It is fully prepared to undertake any job, large or small, including
travelling arrangements for children, transport to dancing classes and catering for
their parties. The care of invalids will also be undertaken for certain periods, as
well as shopping of all kinds. Any domestic emergency will be catered for and there
will be a bachelor mending service. After Christmas interior decoration and
catering of all kinds will be undertaken. Charges will be moderate.
1928

Soon after daybreak the advance guard of the thousand undergraduate poppy sellers
sallied forth to all quarters of Cambridge, determined to beat the record figures
reached last year. The warmth of their enthusiasm was sufficient protection against
the keen frosty air, and scorning overcoats they patrolled the lonely streets and
waylaid those hurrying to business. They were so cheerfully importunate that only a
modern Scrooge could have refused them and most people seemed only too willing to
pay off another small instalment of their war debt.

1903

A startling scene occurred during a performance at the New Theatre, Cambridge.

Shortly before its conclusion the play was stopped and an undergraduate was
ejected. An attendant was first sent to remonstrate with the man who had been
making himself an intolerable nuisance, but as this seemed to be of no avail the
Manager, Mr Redfern stopped the play and asked him to leave. The undergraduate
remained seated, saying “My good man I have nothing to do with it”. Redfern: “I am
not your good man”. The reluctant offender donned his gown and left the Theatre
looking very crestfallen amid cheers and hisses. The play then proceeded.

Thursday 13th November

1978

Four armed men wearing theatrical masks – one an ape and another a clown – made a
£30,000 raid on Newmarket post office. One was armed with a sawn-off double-
barrelled shotgun, two had pickaxe handles and the other had an iron wrench. They
tied up three sorters on duty and broke open registered mail. Extra police were
drafted into the area and cars were stopped and checked on roads leading out of the
town.

1953

The Cambridge Daily News made their own news when a fire broke out in the front
office of the St Andrew’s Street premises which are immediately opposite the Fire
Station. P.C. Roberts noticed smoke coming from the building and smashed the front
doors. While he was under a table smothering the flames the rising heat brought the
sprinkler system into operation, preventing the blaze from spreading. The Fire
Station send over a pump escape and turntable ladder and the fire was under control
within four minutes. A number of replies to advertisements were damaged and it
would be advisable if readers who have answered adverts within the last few days
would write again.

1928

Carnival conditions prevailed in Cambridge where the poppy-decked shoppers met

amusing spectacles on all hands. On no previous poppy day has undergraduate
ingenuity been so fertile. Chief among the many attractive schemes for money
squeezing was “Banger’s Circus” in which an unidentifiable animal with ‘flannel
bag’ legs, and a monkey led on a chain by a top-hatted ringmaster were noticeable.
The procession was disorganised when the monkey developed a thirst and dashed into
the Angel, dragging the not-unwilling circus master with him

1903
The first sale of good distrained under warrants for refusing to pay the education
rate took place at Royston police station. A number of constables were in
attendance but there was a complete absence of interruption, the crowd of
sympathisers, which numbered about 100, being very orderly. The goods which were
seized from people in Nuthampstead, Reed and Barkway were all brought back.
Afterwards a meeting heard that the ranks of resisters were multiplying day by day
and it is more than probable that future sales will be necessary. They did not
blame the police for doing their unpleasant duty in carrying out this iniquitous
act; as soon as they got an opportunity they would turn out the present Government.

Friday 14th November

1978

Wilder Pinney, a dental repair man of Fitzroy Street, Cambridge told the News:
“Some dentures I have to handle are horrible – all slimy and mucky. The smokers’
are the worst, covered in tar they are. Black. You have to clean them before you
can start work on them. People break their dentures in all sorts of ways. With
schoolboys it’s usually because they’ve been keeping them in their pockets. People
are terribly embarrassed without their teeth. Some daren’t leave the shop but sit
hiding behind a magazine, others walk about with a hanky over their faces.
Especially the ladies.”

1953

Premier Travel and Percival Motors have applied to combine their express carriage
services from Cambridge to Oxford. They have been competing on the route since
1951. During term time there was mostly University traffic and in summer a great
deal of tourists. The University World Service, said the new service would be of
great convenience to students from abroad, many of whom toured England after coming
to Cambridge to study. The Eastern Counties, Associated Motorways and United
Counties bus companies and the City of Oxford Motor Services opposed the
application as did the Railway Executive who said the bulk of the Cambridge-Oxford
traffic was moving by rail via Bletchley.

c.26.46

1928

The bringing of the electricity supply to villages is not without its difficulties;
the erection of power lines by the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Huntingdonshire
Electricity Company would seriously effect cultivation and put the agriculturalist
to more expense. It was reasonable that poles should be erected down green lanes
rather than across a field planted with fruit. The lines had already ruined one of
the most charming parts of the county. But others felt people would not object if
that meant it prevented the supply coming into their area.

1903

Few firms possess so high a reputation for the manufacture and fitting of
artificial molars as Messrs F.W. Bradley of Wisbech. Times have changed since the
days when ‘false teeth’ were a disfigurement. They can now be fitted so perfectly
that detection is practically impossible. Starting in 1887 the business has spread
with branches in every town of importance in the Eastern Counties. Mr Bradley has
issued a tasty brochure with expressions of thanks from people in all stations of
life, for he has proved that it is possible to execute high-class work at
reasonable charges.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 17th November

1978

A 100-acre country park could be created at Audley End, say Essex County Council.
At present the House and 40 acres of the grounds are open to the public. The rest
of the park is in private ownership. Such a country park would cater for day
trippers from London and Saffron Walden which has no open country within reach. Old
mineral workings and woodlands seem to the only other potential recreation areas
around Walden.

1953

Reach’s oldest inhabitant, 84-year-old Mrs Badcock, leaned across a table in the
lamplight and pulled a switch to turn on the village’s electricity supply. The
lights blazed and a six foot sign of red, white and blue bulbs glowed ‘Welcome to
E.E.B.’ “This is a great day in the history of the village”, Mr B. Day, chairman of
the parish council, told the enthusiastic audience which packed the school to
overflowing. A large number stayed to watch a television that had been installed,
others went home to find their houses brightly lit by electricity and others went
to the hostelries across the green to celebrate in the traditional way.

1928

Sir – As a motorist who has travelled 18,000 miles on English, Irish and
Continental roads by day and night since April last I protest against the statement
that there are few roads on which it is safe to drive at 30 mph after dark. The
efficiency of modern cars, brakes and headlights, the invaluable illuminated night
signs and the sound state of the road surface make such speeds perfectly safe at
night in uncrowded districts. The night motorists one great menace has been the un-
illuminated rear of the push cycle, but they are now required by law to carry a
rear reflector thus eliminating any danger in this direction –Sir William L.
Williams, Malcolm Place, Cambridge

1903

A second shooting outrage has been committed on the highway at Abington. Harold
Chamberlain was in charge of a van belonging to Pegg’s Brewery, Cambridge when two
shots were fired in his direction. Naturally he was alarmed and drove off as
quickly as possible. Police Superintendent Everitt of Linton was apprised of the
occurrence and every available constable was sent to hunt for the highwayman.

Tuesday 18th November

1978

Twenty-six men live in the county council-run White Ribbon Hostel in East Road,
Cambridge with one bath between them. It is hardly worth bathing, the place is so
damp and filthy. The rooms at the back are so rotten they are used just for
storage. If you have a bedroom to yourself a week in the hostel will cost you
£14.78, just £10 less than a room in the relative luxury of the YMCA. The problem
is a practical one: the Hostel is scheduled to be demolished should the Kite
redevelopment plans go ahead. The council is thus loath to spend much money on the
creaking 19th-century structure.
c.32.9

1953

Twelve years after a high explosive bomb partially destroyed the Sturton Street
Methodist Church plans are now complete for the building of a new place of worship.
The original chapel was built in the 1820s but in August 1941 a bomb dropped within
a few feet of the west wall, removing the greater part of the roof slating, opening
a large hole in the external vaulting and causing severe damage to the fabric. The
whole of the roof lifted and many of the roof timbers were fractured. The building
was of no use for public worship which had to take place in the Assembly Hall.

c.83

1928

Nearly 400 dogs of all sorts, shapes and sizes were on view at the Cambridge Canine
Society show. Pekinese classes were well filled, while Cairn terriers were a very
nice lot. Fox terriers too provided strong classes and West Highland terriers made
a very good show. A splendid lot of cocker spaniels were headed by a beautiful
black, Pilot of Cambs, shown by Mr A.J. Storey who took the cup for the best gun
dog. An Irish wolfhound, shown by Mr J. Nagle, was outstanding and took the club
cup, although Miss Cross’ St Bernard ran it very close.

1903

A lady from Chesterton says that since she took up her abode her house has been
invaded by battalions of tradesmen’s representatives, most of whom went away empty-
handed, as they were all anxious to sell the same goods. One individual of
righteous appearance bearing a bundle of what appeared to be the latest thing in
tracts asked if the household was a teetotal one and hoped she would accept one of
his pamphlets. When she came to look at the pledge form it was an advertisement for
bottled beer. It is curious that all the others have been bottled beer men too.

Wednesday 19th November

1978

In some people’s eyes Cambridge United manager Tommy Docherty is almost a

nonentity, especially when comparisons are made with his predecessor, Ron Atkinson
with his showman style, champagne, huge cigars and Jaguar car. Docherty drives a
modest Datsun, dresses smartly but not flamboyantly and doesn’t like the taste of
champagne. While Atkinson was a motivator and inspirational manager, Docherty is a
tactician and a pragmatist. Both share a belief that there is no limit as to what
the club can achieve. But if United are playing at Anfield and Old Trafford next
season the Doc will probably still be able to walk unrecognised past pressmen as
they wait outside the changing room door.

1953

Cambridge is fortunate in having the chance to see the film of the 1953 Everest
Expedition so soon after its world premier. Through the generosity of Associated
British Cinemas nearly 8,000 schoolchildren will see it at a special morning
performance at the Regal and groups will come in from Newmarket, Saffron Walden,
Huntingdon and Royston to see the only pictorial record of a magnificent British
achievement. Councillors, Justices and Masters of Colleges have also been invited
1928

The great gale which swept the country blew down trees, damaged roofs and caused
damage. The most serious loss is the removal of the roof of the grandstand on the
Cambridge Town Football Club’s ground. The cross at St Barnabas church was carried
away but no person was injured in its fall. Hoardings on the LNER Railway’s
property near Cambridge station have been razed to the ground and the line was
blocked by a signal that was blown down near Waterbeach. At Trinity College the
famous ‘Sedgwick Elm’ in the Fellows’ Garden was partly blown down. At Ely two
large sheets of lead were lifted on the roof of the cathedral nave and a huge
chicken shed in Lynn Road was completely demolished.

c.12
1903

The shooting outrages near Saffron Walden continue to arouse excitement; a rumour
circulated that a commercial traveller had been fired upon near Littlebury, that he
had been struck and was carrying a considerable sum of money, having sold four
horses. But none of this is correct. Two gentlemen motoring near Stump Cross were
‘pulled up by a gentleman’ who asked the way to Hinxton church, he was something
over fifty with a greyish beard. The whole affair has instituted a reign of terror
in the district.

Thursday 20th November

1978

One of Cambridge’s most successful businessmen, Mr Douglas January has died. He

built up an estate agent’s enterprise from modest beginnings in 1937 to one of the
largest in Cambridge, with branch offices in the main market towns in the area. He
was also widely known in other community fields and was responsible for the
successful fund-raising drive behind the launch of the Cambridge sports hall. He
was President of the Cambridge Golf Union & Amateur Boxing Club and local sports
clubs eagerly sought his patronage.

c.06

1953

Far too many people are getting far too excited over reports to make Sawston an
overflow town for London, says the chairman of South Cambs R.D.C. Despite newspaper
headlines there has been no application to build houses and the London County
Council have not decided whether they want to go to Sawston. As regards housing the
R.D.C. have already built some 226 post-war houses with a further 80 under
construction and 14 in contract. This may be a record.

1928

A meeting for clothing workers was arranged at Haverhill to reform, a branch of the
Garment Workers’ Union. It should never have been allowed to go out of existence
but during the slump of 1921-22, when trade union assistance was needed more than
ever, the workers fell away. What the union was asking for was one penny an hour
more for girl workers, a halfpenny an hour for men and a week’s holiday a year with
pay. Once there was a branch at Haverhill members could depend on being looked
after by the union if trials and tribulations came.

1903

Another shooting outrage has occurred when two shots were fired through the bedroom
window of a labourer and his wife in London Road, Great Shelford. They looked out
of the window and saw a man on a bicycle with another man in a trailer attached.
Pistol shot holes were found bored through the windows of the front sitting-room
and the impression of a bullet on the wall is observable, but the bullet has not
been found. The police have traversed long distances at night on a motor car in
their search for the modern Dick Turpin and are keeping watch on places likely to
be frequented by wanderers.

Friday 21st November

1978

If the slightest suspicion of smoke gets in your eyes you should travel with United
Taxis where boss John Phillips has a strict rule forbidding his passengers and
drivers from smoking: “We carry 300 hospital patients every day so its not healthy
for them to have to breathe cigarette smoke, and besides it discolours the
upholstery”, he said. At the Guildhall, County Hall and Fisons workers can smoke
freely and even health-conscious Cambridge United players are at liberty to clog
their lungs up at work. CCAT students are free to smoke during classes, but only if
a majority of them vote to do so at the beginning of a session; at Jesus College
undergraduates voted to remove ash-trays from their library.

SMOKING

1953

Plans for the development of Fulbourn to provide accommodation for an overspill

population of up to 4,000 have caused strong opposition from the parish council.
But a sewerage scheme had been installed it should be used to capacity rather than
to provide for a small number of persons in other parishes, necessitating
additional expenditure on development works. However the sewage scheme was planned
for a maximum of 2,500 people and now was to take sewage from Teversham as well;
how can this be carried out? The only sensible thing if to postpone the decision.

1928

Earlier we gave details of a £42,000 deal in Cambridge Market Hill; now we can
reveal proposals to built a super Victoria Cinema that will accommodate about 1,800
people and embody all the latest improvements with the most comfortable seating and
an excellent orchestra. Large waiting lounges will be included to accommodate all
queues in the building and protect patrons from the weather. A luxurious café
restaurant is also promised. We are unable to state whether apparatus for ‘talkies’
will be included but no doubt if this art develops sufficiently well in time this
new asset will not be overlooked.

1903

A recital was given at Cambridge to exhibit the capabilities of the Angelus piano
player, an instrument for assisting the interpretation of compositions for which
much is claimed. Its power has by no means been over-rated. It can be manipulated
by anyone, with no knowledge of music and gives a perfect command of the piano. The
recital was arranged by Messrs G.C. Bedwell, music sellers of Hills Road,
Cambridge.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 24th November

1978

The closure of Park Street Primary School in Cambridge came a big step nearer when
the County Council decided by a large majority that it should close because of a
steep decline in the numbers of city school children. The school with about 130
children was on a sub-standard site and there was no possibility of improvements or
extensions. The pressure to keep it open was parochial and the education committee
has a responsibility to look at the service as a whole.

1953

A Cambridge brush manufacturer was ordered to disclose a ‘secret formula’ for

dressing hair for brushes, which had been used by his father. He had started
business on his own in School House Lane in 1947, making brushes for one wholesale
firm on terms which proved unprofitable. He became insolvent, but had kept no
books. He’d been offered £1,500 for the ‘secret formula’ and should reveal it to
the Bankruptcy Court as there must be some value in it.

c.27

1928

The executors of the late Mr P.P. Gilpin are to sell the famous racing
establishment, Clarehaven at Newmarket, where a winner of practically every big
race, save the Cambridgeshire, has been trained. It practically adjoins the
Limekilns and is convenient for both sides of the heath. The property includes a
gentleman’s house, a splendid range of 40 loose boxes, beside yearling boxes, hack
stables etc and is complete in every detail.

1903

An agreement has been reached for the incorporation of the Capital and Counties
Bank, London and Messrs Foster’s bank in Sidney Street, Cambridge. The Capital was
established more than 69 years ago and holds eminent rank among the leading London
clearing banks. It is already well known here, having a branch in Cambridge under
the management of Mr Guilmant, and others at Newmarket, Haverhill and Wisbech. We
feel confident that the enlargement by this amalgamation with Messrs Foster of the
Bank’s sphere of operations cannot but prove of general advantage.

c.32.8

Tuesday 25th November

1978

The future of the former Rex Cinema and ballroom complex in Magrath Avenue,
Cambridge is still undecided, three years after the buildings were closed down
suddenly following a High Court dispute over ownership. Now a Suffolk
entertainments company has abandoned its plans for a night club after lawyers ruled
that this would need planning permission. In the past hundreds of people living
nearby complained about noise and nuisances. Other ideas for the site have included
a storage warehouse, council flats, old peoples’ home, students’ hostel and an
extension of the nearby county council offices. Meanwhile what was once one of the
city’s brightest night-spots stands just an empty shell with broken windows and
graffiti sprayed over its front door.
1953

Mr W.A. Munford, Cambridge City Librarian for the last eight years, has been
appointed to one of the great national library posts, that of Director-General of
the National Library for the Blind. He is one of the best known librarians in the
country and was chosen for a total of 300 applicants. He will continue to live in
Cambridge, which he describes as “too good a place to leave unless you have to”.

c.77.4

1928

Sir – I watched a Cambridge policeman on point duty outside Woolworth’s and was
struck by the smart way in which he held up, or signalled on, vehicles. I saw him
stop the traffic to allow a lady with a child in a push-chair to cross the road,
lead a child over and pull to safety a woman who was in danger of being run down. I
asked him whether he often had to pull people out of danger and he told me: “These
village folk are not used to town, and one has to expect such things” – M. Bowyer

1903

One of the events of the year was the great fire which swept away the extensive
premises of Messrs Laurie & McConnal in Fitzroy Street, Cambridge. Now within nine
months the ruins have been replaced by more convenient, commodious and up-to-date
premises and the business is in full swing in its new home. They are the first
entirely steel-frame buildings erected in this country. Those who remember the
former premises cannot but be struck with the immense improvement effected, with
lifts, driven by an electric motor, at the service of customers any time of the
day.

c.27.2

Wednesday 26th November

1978

Leonard Crickmore of Saffron Walden recalls crawling among landmines with trees
being splintered by shells all around after his fire engine had been blown up. This
incredible episode happened in May 1944 amid quiet rolling pastures at Chesterford
Park. It then housed a major ammunition dump and the mansion was occupied as a
Jewish Hospital. Violent explosions smashed windows in shops at Saffron Walden, two
miles away and High Street stores had wooden boards across their windows for more
than a year as plate glass was scarce. These events have been recalled by the
return of the army for an eight-week stint clearing the debris of the explosions

1953

Firemen spent three hours fighting an outbreak in Air Ministry premises in

Houldsworth Valley, Newmarket. They found a Nissen hut, used as offices, well
ablaze. Office equipment and files were destroyed and the actual building was
virtually gutted. The cause of the fire is unknown.

1928

Members of the Cambridge public who have been mystified by the appearance of wooden
huts in various places will be interested to learn they are police telephone boxes.
They will be small sub-police stations. Each will contain a telephone in a cupboard
which the public can use to get in touch with the Central Police Station, but not
for general calls. The box itself will only be accessible to the police. Thirteen
are to be erected

c.34.6 # c.27.7

1903

A growing demand for the stone, marble and granite objects with which the memory of
the dead are perpetuated indicates an expansion of business for those who provide
these melancholy tokens. Messrs Ivett and Reed have found their premises on Mill
Road and Regent Street inadequate and have opened a new branch on Newmarket Road,
appropriately near the new cemetery. The premises consist of a dwelling house and
show-room and are built of Bath stone with a portico supported by two graceful
Corinthian pillars. Inside is a chimney-piece of statuary marble upon which
delicate-looking foliage is represented in the Italian style.

c.21.2
Thursday 27th November

1978

A 200-year-old mulberry tree in Orwell High Street appeared to be in a bad state

but the Parish Council decided to seek advice before ordering it to be felled. To
everyone’s relief the tree officer declared the tree – which produced a mass of
fruit this year - was healthy and the council now plans to turn the spot into an
attractive corner and erect a seat around the tree.

1953

Sir – the trees which were the focal point of Victoria Park, a pleasant cul-de-sac
of urban Cambridge, are now lying on their sides awaiting removal; one or two were
diseased and some of the roots were interfering with soil drains. By a happy
combination of simple group planning and the breaking down of the artificial
barrier between home and green caused by the removal of the railings during the
war, the Park was something quite unique. To plant replacement anaemic flowering
sticks of trees with ‘touch me not’ flowerbeds will turn it into another piece of
suburbia. – D. McLeod.

c.17

1928

1928 has been a bad year for the prevalence of diphtheria with over 100 cases in
Cambridge, resulting in 14 deaths. There have been 37 cases in elementary schools
since September and six have ended fatally. Taken early the disease can be treated
with a serum but parents are liable to mistake the first symptoms for those of a
slight cold, a sore throat or the mumps. There is no traceable cause for the
outbreak and personal contact,
not insanitary conditions, is a primary cause of its spreading.

c.21.1

1903

The contents of Herringswell House have been sold including a remarkable collection
of paintings by J.F. Herring, senior which was formed by the late Mr Mure, who was
one of his principal patrons. Many are known to have been painted there. A
remarkable painting of the Coach and Four at Bottisham Swan was the gem and the
buyer was fortunate in acquiring it for 310 guineas. Others fetched prices from
£215 for a set of six hunting pictures to £12 for 12 finely-drawn crayon drawings
attributed to Herring.

Friday 28th November

1978

Winter hit with a vengeance today, blanketing the region with up to three inches of
snow and leaving a trail of chaos on roads into Cambridge. The worse spot was the
A604 where the Bar Hill flyovers were so slippery that some motorists were forced
to abandon their cars. There were long queues of traffic with many minor bumps and
skids. This November has now become one of the coldest on record, yet only a week
ago the opposite was true with mild weather providing one of the warmest autumns
since the war.

1953

Barton inhabitants have long felt the need of a children’s corner in their
recreation ground where youngsters could enjoy themselves without harm. Now the
children have swings, a sandpit, a new type of ‘horses’ swing, see-saws and various
other popular playthings. And practically every member of the village has given
some sort of tree or shrub to surround it. David Kindersley, a sculptor who lives
in the village, has made a beautiful plaque in the form of a sun dial.

1928

The Isle of Ely County Council has taken over the road across Mepal Causeway as a
main road but have no responsibility for a concrete viaduct. But, recognising the
great delay and danger to the public when the road is flooded, they are prepared to
find 25% of the cost. During floods last winter traffic was held up for three
weeks; it was impossible to get a boat across and 40 workmen from Mepal had to walk
eight miles after a day’s work, travelling from Bluntisham to Sutton by rail. If
the viaduct was built it would be one of the greatest improvements since the
Council had been in existence.

1903

A report has circulated in Haverhill that Mr & Mrs Todd of 106 Withersfield Road
were disturbed by revolver or pistol shots, the bullets hitting the wall of the
house. The opinion is being expressed that some of the same gang who have created
such terror on the highways had paid one of their nocturnal visits. A bricklayer
named Suckling was returning home to Steeple Bumpstead when he was stopped by two
men who emerged from a hedge. Without more ado he turned tail and ran back to his
father’s house at Haverhill.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 1st December

1978

A leading Cambridge scientist and Nobel Prizewinner, Dr Frederick Sanger of the

Laboratory of Molecular Biology has been presented with an American award for new
advances in the chemistry of genetics. His work on the sequencing of DNA in a type
of virus used by scientists to study genetics might well warrant the awarding of
another Nobel Prize to add to the one he won in 1958 for his study of the structure
of the hormone insulin. He has also received other leading scientific awards.

c.36.9

1953

Representatives of the British Electrical and Allied Manufacturers Association

whose members have subscribed £72,000 to ensure the perpetual endowment of the
chair of Electrical Engineering presented the University Vice-Chancellor with a
rosewater dish. He told them that the electrical industry has grown to one of great
eminence and importance; there is an urgent need in the industry for advanced men
and specialists and the University is working to provide the men we need.

c.36.9

1928

Chesterton RDC would never sanction the erection of petrol pumps which encroached
on the highway. But the danger was not so much encroachment as the arm of the pump
blocking the footpath and causing women with perambulators to go out on to the
road. They were also told that during the recent gale the total loss in their 374
houses was one pane of glass and three slates. This was a matter for
congratulation.

1903

A fire broke out in a storehouse at Messrs Lincoln’s premises in Sidney Street,

Cambridge; a quantity of petroleum became ignited and the fire assumed dangerous
proportions. Three hydrants were quickly at work with hoses were taken through
Trinity College and directed from college windows. But as the water streamed along
the floor oil settled on the surface and becoming ignited created an effect of
running streams of flame. At the time of going to press the fire was still burning
but has been sufficiently subdued to enable some of the goods in the store-room to
be removed. There were over 100 gallons of petroleum in store.

c.34.75

Tuesday 2nd December

1978

The Cambridge rubbish tip at Coldham’s Lane, which has been frequently criticised
on windy days for its smells and the large amount of paper blown from it, is to
close. But the tip which is now full up will be replaced by a massive hole in the
ground just a few hundred yards away at the worked-out quarry by the side of the
Norman Cement Works, where the city’s refuse will continue to be dumped. In time
there will be a special section for household waste like old furniture and garden
waste not normally collected by dustmen. It is expected the new tip will last about
five years after which rubbish will be carted to a new tip at Milton.

c.21.1

1953

Sir – I wish to protest against the use of the Via Devana for organised motor and
motor-cycle rallies. This track is one of the few where one can obtain a long walk
through open countryside and is spoilt by the thoughtless and selfish actions of
those driving along it. All motor traffic should be prohibited other than farm
vehicles - J.H. Preston

1928

Many parsonages in the Ely Diocese were too large picturesque ‘white elephants’.
They were expensive and the upkeep was quite out of proportion. The incumbent must
repair and often improve it, but he could not sell it or even fell the timber in
the grounds without permission. Trustees should be established to classify
properties, sell or re-model and improve them. A list could be drawn up with the
prices fixed and agents who wished to buy would know where to go. But this would
mean more officialdom and be a step in Socialism. And nothing was said about
security of tenure; the work of the clergyman was hard and this mischievous and
wicked interference would make it harder still.

1903

As reported yesterday nearly 150 gallons of petroleum became ignited in a warehouse

in Sidney Street, Cambridge. It appears that one of Messrs Lincoln’s carmen sent a
lad to the warehouse to trim a van lamp. The boy was apparently not aware that the
warehouse is lighted by electricity and while trimming the lamp he allowed it to
remain alight. The oil in the lamp by some means became ignited and he dropped it
on the floor. Two tanks of petroleum and a cask of methylated spirits were soon
blazing furiously and the interior was a mass of flame.

Wednesday 3rd December

1978

Experimental mini-roundabouts at the Lensfield Road – Trumpington Road junction in

Cambridge have been approved by the Government and will be made permanent. They
replaced traffic lights which for years caused long delays and have speeded-up
traffic at the once-notorious bottleneck. In addition a pelican crossing is to be
built at Fen Causeway at the entrance to the Engineering Laboratories with another
at Trumpington Road. There will also be one over Brooks Road when the new and
controversial link with Newmarket Road is opened shortly.

c.26.48

1953

Residents petitioned against proposals for the conversion of a house in Church Lane
Girton into a shop. It had been used as a nursery and there was ample room for
parking goods vehicles. Mr A.D. Truelove said a shop was needed to serve the area;
he had been given to build one on a site 100 yards away, but was unable to purchase
the land. But the Lane was residential and a shop would detract from the character.
There was a post office stores nearby and a Co-operative Society shop within half a
mile. Girton was one of the villages designated to take ‘overspill’ from Cambridge
and the population would rise from 1,290 in 1951 to 1,750 in 20 years.

1928

Almost every aspect of undergraduate life will be seen in the new ‘talkie’ film now
in course of preparation. The director is an old Cambridge man and he has persuaded
the authorities to permit the general public glimpses of the interiors of some of
the most sacred institutions. Certain ‘dons’ whose names are household words are
interested in the project and will describe the characteristics of some of the fine
old buildings while in one scene the star part will be played by a popular
University hairdresser whose saloon and waiting clients provide the setting.

c.76.9 # c.65.5

1903

The unprecedented rainfall has taxed waterways beyond their capacity and floods are
the natural consequence. In Cambridge boathouses have been invaded by the flood
and the ferries have stopped plying. The flood has taken possession of Sheep’s
Green and part of Coe Fen while the Upper Granta has inundated many acres of
pasture. In the fen country the dykes are full to overflowing and the land clogged
with water, while in St Ives there are floods to a considerable depth covering
hundreds of acres.

c.29
Thursday 4th December

1978

Parts of the Newmarket-based Kerridge building group have been sold to Iranian
businessmen, who have paid cash for three companies within the group. The deal
includes Platonoff and Harris a shopfitting company based in Sturton Street and the
former Jack Branch (Waterbeach) site. The jobs of the 600 employees of the
principal part of the business, Kerridge Construction Ltd will be safe and the
company has lots of work. The firm was set up in Cambridge in 1875 and moved its
headquarters to Newmarket in the summer.

1953

Doubts were expressed whether Newmarket’s allocation of 50 houses for 1954 was
sufficient. There was a continued demand and the proposed derequisition means
additional houses have to be provided for additional applicants. Some kind of
allocation had to be maintained; the Ministry aimed to build 300,000 houses and to
construct a greater number might halt progress because of a shortage of materials.
But if the Council were in a position to build more the Ministry would probably
make them an additional grant.

1928

In the administrative areas of Cambridgeshire County Council there is only one

town, Cambridge; the population of the town and county area are almost equally
balanced. In ordinary circumstances Cambridge would have been made a county borough
with all the advantages that accrue, had it not been that this would paralyse local
county government. As a result it has had to suffer and remains under the control
of the County Council, a body which is almost entirely rural in character. Under
the new rating assessment Cambridge will find some 70% of the money but has fewer
representatives on the county council than the rural areas; this is an intolerable
position the Cambridge MP told the House of Commons.

1903

If the scene that attended the opening of the children’s reading room at the Mill
Road branch of the Cambridge Free Library can be relied upon the experiment ought
to be attended with the happiest results. Within a few minutes of opening it was
fully occupied by boys and girls and the demand for admittance was in excess of
expectations with a large number waiting patiently outside until room could be made
for them. Some had a long wait as once the children had settled down to the store
of attractive books and pictures provided the employment became completely
absorbing. Their clean faces and hands and well-brushed hair helped form a charming
sight which their complete quietness and good behaviour rendered all the more
attractive.

c.77.4

Friday 5th December

1978

Supplying the needs of the massive Arbury housing estate is a daunting task but at
Christmas the Arbury Court shopping precinct offers everything you could need. T.
Sutton has Christmas trees while a good range of poultry is available from Dyers
Meat and J. Whittaker. On a frosty morning the most tempting smell in the precinct
is that of freshly-baked bread coming from Markillies Bakery who offer a wide range
of cakes and pastries. Arbury Hardware has also taken on a festive appearance with
a good selection of gifts from Timex watches to figurines.

1953

Cambridge councillors approved a £22,000 scheme for the improvement of Jesus Green
Swimming Pool despite fears that this might prejudice chances of an indoor pool. It
was an outdoor pool, used for about 110 days a year; last year 55,000 people used
it but it ran at a loss and each one cost the City sixpence. It would be filled
from the mains & filtered to remove impurities. More would use it if they could go
into water that looked like water and not soup. Others thought they ought to
enclose half the present bath so it could be used all year – but this would make it
look like a shed and bring criticism

c.38 : swimming

1928

The number of cases of venereal diseases in the Isle of Ely has increased; of those
attending the centre at Cambridge the number ceasing treatment before their cure
was completed was more than last year. Poverty was no bar to treatment since
railway fares are paid to all necessitous cases on application and laboratory
facilities are provided free of cost to all Isle medical men. Six beds are reserved
at Addenbrooke's Hospital for in-patients’ treatment for these cases and
unfortunately there had been more call upon them during the year.

1903

Some 20 years ago premises in Gwydir Street Cambridge were used as a brewery; they
became dismantled but now through the enterprise of Mr Frederick Dale it has been
converted to an up-to-date brewery where beer made from pure malt and hops will be
manufactured. Its speciality will be family pale ales and nourishing or invalid
stout, an article a small brewer seldom undertakes to manufacture. Messrs Adlam of
Bristol have installed the most improved machinery and the most up-to-date methods
are employed.
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

c.27.4

Monday 8th December

1978

The increasing use of Cambridge colleges as conference centres may result in

irreparable damage to life in the University, dons have warned. Studious
undergraduates are unable to remain in residence over the vacation, opulent
undergraduates are forced to remove objects from their shelves and dons and
graduates find their work disturbed by riotous assemblies of exuberant conferees.
But the real danger is that colleges may think of themselves as conference centres
first and colleges second. This follows the installation at Trinity College of bed
sitting rooms with integral bathrooms rather than communal facilities and the
construction of a conference centre at New Hall.

c.27.9

1953

The possibility that Marshall’s airfield might be used by jets and other high-
powered aircraft provoked a vigorous debate at Cambridge City Council. Coun Warren
protested at the construction of a hard landing strip: “The town is going to be
menaced by high-powered aircraft which we know nothing about”. But Coun Collins
suggested that more powerful aircraft must come in time and added “The aircraft now
landing there will soon be obsolete”. Ald James asked: “If it is essential should
the ground have not been moved further out into the country?”

c.26.1

1928

A passenger train travelling from March to Cambridge at over 40 mph crashed through
one of the level crossing gates at Milton during dense fog. A motor lorry was
practically on the rails. The engine driver appears to have been ignorant of the
accident until he stopped some distance from the gates to await a signal. He then
sent the fireman back to see what had happened. The passengers were unaware of any
mishap. The Milton gates seem to be ill-fated. Numerous similar accidents have
occurred there.

1903

Mill Road library opened a reading room for the exclusive benefit of children.
Apart from the love of books and pictures likely to be instilled into the youthful
mind there are habits of cleanliness, order & discipline. Dirty hands and faces are
not permitted to enter and bad behaviour is punished by immediate expulsion. The
children will be well looked after and tired mothers and weary fathers can rest
with easy minds knowing their offspring are enjoying themselves without injuring
either their bodies or their morals.

c.77.4

Tuesday 9th December

1978

Newmarket has organised a really festive Christmas this year aimed at encouraging
shoppers to discover the benefits of friendly, personal service and a wide variety
of shops and services. Until a few years ago shoppers needed to be endowed with
very quick reflexes to avoid the many heavy lorries that thundered through the town
centre. But now after the opening of the bypass motorists can drive easily about
and park in one of the many free car parks.
1953

Granta Swimming Club considers that any expenditure on Jesus Green pool would be a
complete waste of money; it would never be any good for serious competitive
swimming. The money should be put towards an indoor pool. The club has the use of
the Leys School heated bath and five swimmers had reached the gold medal standard
in proficiency. There would be a ‘splash night’ with games, races and two polo
matches, one for ladies. The Mayor said he had been present at various ‘Swims
through Cambridge’ and wondered how the tough-looking girls he saw dragged from the
water after the swim could be the same attractive young ladies facing him at the
annual dinner.

1928

A Little Downham baker told the bankruptcy court that he had bought the business
for £900, but there was little trade, the weekly takings averaging £15. The
majority of the business was the bread round. He took over two horses and a cart,
but one horse had the colic and the other a stroke so had to be shot. He did the
baking when he was able and produced about 12 stones of bread a day. Sometimes he
had no profit at all. He blamed his failure on keen competition – there were four
bakers in the village, much too many for the size of the place.

1903

A unique performance took place at the Cambridge New Theatre when the Eastern
Vacuum Cleaner Co. demonstrated spring cleaning up-to-date by which a building may
be thoroughly cleansed of all dirt and dust. Standing outside was a machine
provided with a pair of vacuum pumps actuated by an oil or electric motor which
maintains an exhaust of several pounds to the square inch. Connected with it were
lengths of hose which terminated in ‘cleaners’ or ‘renovators’. Members of the
‘Varsity, civic dignitaries, keen business men and householders with their wives
watched the dust being collected. No dust is raised n the apartment being cleaned
which should be especially appreciated in Cambridge where there are so many works
of art and delicate instruments.

Wednesday 10th December

1978

The largest crane in Britain was manoeuvred carefully into position as part of the
massive construction work to a motorway bridge spanning the main London railway
line at Stump Cross. British Rail closed the track and under the glare of arc
lights massive 85-ton parapet beams were trundled by rail from Whittlesford station
yard to the site and the operation began to lift them to the bridge above. The
operation which started at 3.30 am was completed by noon and was watched by many
observers who braved the cold to see the motorway engineers at work.

1953

Mr R.J. Green appealed against the refusal of permission for the extension of his
existing gravel works at Milton. He had occupied the site in 1946 and never
received any complaints. The land was first-class for gravel, poor for agriculture
and not suitable for housing. But County planners said that under the development
plan the population would increase to 1,700 compared with 750 in 1951. If the
population is to be doubled the people coming into Milton should be considered from
now on. If granted it would bring the gravel workings right up to the village
street in Fen Road & be a serious loss of land for housing.
1928

Members of the Ely Musical Society were cut with flying glass and bruised about the
body in a motor bus crash. They were returning from Downham Market along a winding
road when the front wheel of the bus skidded and it charged two trees. Luckily Mr
Medcalfe, one of the Ortona Company’s most careful drivers, stuck to his wheel
which saved the situation very considerably. They were taken to a farmhouse and the
driver went on the pillion of a motorcycle to Ely to get help. Another conveyance
was sent to convey the unfortunate singers home but a heavy fog hanging over the
fens made it difficult for traffic to proceed.

1903
The Central Temperance Hotel and Coffee Tavern, Market Hill, Cambridge was for sale
by auction. It has been an important and famous inn for centuries; originally known
as the ‘Three Tuns’ it was visited by Pepys in 1660. The large ballroom with the
minstrels’ gallery still exists with valuable panelling and carved chimney pieces.
It occupies an excellent position in a busy thoroughfare and is freehold.

c.27.4

Thursday 11th December

1978

Royston Town Council planners approved an application to turn the north wing of The
Rookery in Kneesworth Street into a restaurant with parking for 20 cars. “This is
exactly what this town wants – a good restaurant”, said Coun. Duncan Ferguson. But
the mayor, Coun Alison Nicholls had grave doubts about it. “I don’t want a
restaurant there; if it is a nice one I won’t be able to afford it and if it isn’t
a nice one I won’t like it”, she said.

1953

Two frogmen are inspecting the bridge at St Ives and making minor repairs to the
foundations for the second time – the last being in 1947 after the floods damaged
the concrete base of the piers. Underneath their two-piece suit, flippers and
helmet the men wore Naval jerseys and long pants & the only parts of their bodies
exposed to the water were their hands. One was reported as wearing gloves, but this
was treated as a joke. Last week they were working on the Huntingdon bridge where
they carried out similar work.

1928

For some time Cambridge bowlers have felt the present facilities were not
attractive enough and they ran the risk of losing fixtures with first-class
counties because of the state of the greens. Now an anonymous donor has offered a
lease on ground in Brooklands Avenue; it would not require a great deal of
levelling. The act was one of extraordinary generosity and should allow the
formation of Cumberland turf greens and other sporting attractions.

c.38 : bowls

1903

Christmas Day happening to fall on a Friday means that trade generally will be at a
standstill for three days in succession. Housewives must either purchase their
stocks of meat, bread, fish and vegetables on the Thursday or dealers in these
goods must open on Saturday. Opinion is divided. Some bakers say they cannot make
enough bread on Thursday for the three following days but others say they sell
practically no bread on Boxing Day as people do not each so much at Christmas.
Butchers are inclined to close on the Saturday but fishmongers, where the supply of
ice is an item of the trade, will open for a few hours only. Unless united action
is taken some persons engaged in the four trades will have their holidays
considerably cut into.

c.27.2

Friday 12th December

1978

Rupert Brooke’s association with the Grantchester is now immortalised in drink

after The Rose and Crown changed its name to the Rupert Brooke public house. The
pub has built up an association with Brooke over the years; it sells copies of his
books, has his framed writings on the walls and is the owner of a portrait of the
poet. The landlord said: “We are the only ones around here to keep the name going
like this and the most permanent way is by changing the pub’s name”

1953

A house has been erected in Cambridge using ‘Niblock’ mortarless concrete block
units for the external and internal walls. Patented by a local man and made by
Messrs Jackson Bros of Coldham’s Road, they are hollow, allowing a high degree of
thermal insulation and the actual building of the walls can be carried out quite
quickly, largely by unskilled labour saving cost. Other buildings such as boundary
walls or pigsties have proved singularly dry and warm and without doubt ‘niblocks’
will figure greatly in future building activities.

c.23

1928

Sir – Undergraduate fashions have changed since I came up to Cambridge in 1877. I

never saw an undergraduate wearing knickerbockers nor carrying an umbrella and on
our heads we had to wear hard felt hats when not wearing cap and gown, winter and
summer. Perhaps half a dozen men would venture out wearing straw hats but they were
spoken of as ‘snugs’ – strange and weird people. Of course straws were worn by men
who had gained a place in their college boats and was part of the rowing costume,
but not worn in the streets. We all had to look smart and well-dressed, with no
slouching about with hands in trouser pockets. What a change! – Senex

c.36.9

1903

Sir – Some weeks ago a travelling tinker called at my house and told my wife the
old, old story of out of work and wife dying of starvation etc. She took pity on
him and gave him a small job to repair a kettle, for which after putting a piece of
putty in the hole he had the audacity to charge 8d. My wife paid him out of fear.
Then some rascal decamped with my shirt and some tablecloths from our washing line.
People should not encourage travelling tinkers and rag-and-bone-men who come to see
in the daylight what can be had at a later period – A. Stevens, Richmond Road,
Cambridge.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 15th December

1978

One of Cambridge’s well-known characters, Mr William Trevor Hughes, has died at

Addenbrooke's Hospital aged 66. It is believed he had suffered a heart attack,
Trevor had appeared before magistrates on some 113 occasions, mainly on drinking
charges and was usually found wearing a woolly hat and old overcoat in the city
centre. On one occasion a solicitor paid his £3 fine because he had overlooked
giving him a Christmas present. A native of St Helens and a former cricket coach Mr
Hughes had a wide circle of friends in the University and commerce.

c.27.4

1953

St Ives borough councillors are to inquire into the costs of buying robes to attend
official functions. To go with the robes there would be ceremonial hats and the
cost of ‘good class’ items would be about £24; gear of a lesser quality might cost
£17. But they needed young people on the council who might find this a great
deterrent and the proposal was ill-timed because with the Government going out of
the market for uniforms the price of clothing might drop.

1928

The fine building in Newmarket High Street known originally as the Victoria Hall
was built 31 years ago on the site of the Greyhound Hotel and cost £80,000 to
erect. No expense was spared to make it equal to the West End Hotel. A theatre, a
Turkish bath, a ballroom and garden with fountains were added. But it failed
because it was too good for the needs of the place. It was bought by Barrington
Lynham, a flat race jockey, who has made this huge hotel pay. A cinematograph now
occupies the theatre and it has been the venue of dances, dinners and
presentations. Now it has been sold. The Victoria Cinema will be carried on in
conjunction with the Kingsway Cinema and the Victoria Mansions will be a residence
for well-to-do persons who can afford to rent a flat with every accommodation in
the centre of the metropolis of the Turf.

1903

The organ which for many years had been in use at Trumpington church has been
replaced by an instrument of a much more satisfactory character and one which will
add considerably to the beauty of the musical portion of the service. It cannot be
described as being entirely new as old parts and part of the old case have been
incorporated into the ancient instrument’s successor which was built by Messrs
Miller and Sons of Cambridge.

Tuesday 16th December

1978

Cambridge City Council issued a report on the Kite redevelopment proposals

detailing its negotiations with Grosvenor Estates, the prospective developers.
Grosvenor would finance the land acquisition in the Kite, which the council would
endeavour to complete by the end of 1979, and then carry out the redevelopment
scheme over the following three years. If it is not possible to acquire sufficient
land the council would buy back from Grosvenor Estates whatever land had been
bought, and this would be available for any future plans for the area. The City
Council will have the right to approve all plans relating to the scheme’s
appearance

1953

Linton cricket club proudly celebrated their centenary surrounded by relics of days
gone by. Mr S.A. Taylor recalled when the football club shared the same ground & Mr
Chalk reminisced on the games of his youth, including a visit to Duxford in 1896
when there were about 400 turkeys running about the cricket ground. T.F. Teversham
said: “If your grandfathers turned up today in this lovely old town all they would
miss would be the tinkle of the sheep’s bells. I am pleased to see you are still
free from the clutching hands of the interfering busybodies of the Town and Country
Planning”

1928

Cambridge councillors considered the provision of a car to replace the Ford at

present used in the Highways Department. They agreed to transfer the Austin used by
the Borough Surveyor and authorise him to obtain prices for the purchase of a new
car. Subsequently he submitted estimates for a new Austin in part exchange for the
old Ford car from Messrs Marshall & Co, Jesus Lane (£285.2s) and Herbert Robinson,
Regent Street (£276). They are to accept the Robinson’s offer

1903
Her Majesty the Queen was awoken at Sandringham by Miss Knollys who found her
bedroom full of smoke. Her chamber had immediate access to Queen Alexandra’s and
her first thought was to secure the safety of Her Majesty, who wrapped in a
dressing gown escaped into the corridor just in time to avoid the fall of the
ceiling of her room. Sir Dighton Probyn alarmed the household fire brigade and it
says much for their efficiency that within a very short interval the flames were
entirely subdued. Several accounts are current as to the cause of the fire, one
being that the electric light was defective. But they are in perfect order, says
the consulting electrical engineer to the royal residence.

Wednesday 17th December

1978

The East Anglian Consultative Committee expressed concern over aspects of

Government proposals for ending London overspill arrangements with local towns.
They think arrangements for the scheme being terminated are inflexible and could
have serious repercussions for some district councils. Local authorities have been
very understanding in response to the difficulties being encountered by the Greater
London Council but the town development schemes are legal and binding and they are
not prepared to let their interests go by default.

1953

A St Ives councillor complained that he was not allowed to inspect the borough’s
ancient documents relating to the charter fair; as a ratepayer he had a right to
consult public documents. But the Town Clerk said they were going into the question
of the fair very carefully and it was inadvisable that too much information should
get around the town. Private information had been leaked out of the council chamber
before.

1928
Women having been granted the Parliamentary vote the Cambridge Committee for Equal
Citizenship celebrated this great event. Invitations were sent out to all members
of the Cambridge Women’s Suffrage Association to meet Dame Millicent Fawcett at
Newnham College. There was a very large attendance. Mrs Bethune-Baker traced the
history of the movement in Cambridge. Among the first subscribers were the Mayor
and Vice Chancellor but the cause fell on evil days. Members of the voteless sex
had stood all day at polling booths on a wet day and undergraduates had tried to
force their way into a meeting at the Guildhall.

c.33 # WOMEN

1903

The new bakery of Mr G.P. Hawkins in Parsonage Street, Cambridge is a substantially

built erection with deep foundations. The visitor passes through an artistic lobby
covered with green and white newelite tiles of white glass which fit tightly
together so no dirt or insect can attach itself to the walls. The floors are of
granolithic and the electric light is installed in every compartment The bread is
produced by up-to-date machinery. In a short time a continuous electric current and
an automatic kneader will be installed. There is a glass roof in the yard so the
carts can be loaded comfortably, irrespective of the vagaries of the weather.

c.27

Thursday 18th December

1978

Cambridge Co-operative Society was fined for Sunday trading at the Beehive Shopping
Centre. The Society, which has opened its garden centre every Sunday since spring
said: “Our competitors will still be trading just outside the city; all we have
done is over the same service other garden centres do, and other councils turn a
blind eye.” It had opened after consultations with planners who welcomed the
prospect of a garden centre occupying this then derelict piece of land; if it was
stopped a great deal of harmless leisure activity would be spoiled for thousands of
people.

c.27.2

1953

Nearly 500 people attended one of the most looked-forward to and popular functions
of the year, the Dustman’s Christmas Ball in Cambridge Guildhall. Dustbins were
displayed on the stage behind the Astrals All Star Dance Orchestra, reminding the
dancers of the occasion. Miss Daphne Frostick of East Road was chosen as the new
“Queen of Scavengeria”. The cabaret was amusing and skilful with four men and four
girls entering into a ballet. Although the men were a little less graceful than
their partners they gave a performance that will long be remembered, but whether
for its precision or other factors we will not say.

1928

W.G. Fullick complained of the dangerous state of Gypsy Lane, Dullingham; hardly a
day passed without someone falling from a bicycle. He supposed the Council would
rather pay out compensation than put a little gravel down and noticed that the
Councillors all had good roads to their residences. He hoped the Council would soon
wake up and do something
1903

A new cement company is being floated under the title of ‘The Foxton Cement Co.Ltd’
with a share capital of £60,000. It will acquire about 93 acres of land adjoining
the Foxton Hall Estate where experts have predicted there is an exceptionally good
bed of cement marl. It is proposed to erect the most modern machinery capable of
producing about 500 tons per week of first-class Portland cement. There is also a
large deposit of chalk and a considerable trade is already being done with the
gravel and sand on the surface.

Friday 19th December

1978

Work has started on a £2.2 million by-pass for St Ives which will relieve one of
the major bottlenecks in the county – the 15th century bridge which spans the River
Ouse. A new 25-span viaduct will carry the road across the river and adjoining
flood plain and should be open by October 1980. Then the present bridge, which now
carried about 10,000 vehicles a day, will be restricted to pedestrians, cyclists
and service vehicles only.

1953

Mr Robert Stewart Whipple has died at his home in London, at the age of 82. In 1898
he became private assistant to Horace Darwin, the founder of the Cambridge
Scientific Instrument Company, later becoming a joint managing director until his
retirement in 1935. Noted for his studies of the history, development and
manufacture of scientific instruments he presented his large and varied collection
of instruments and books to the University of Cambridge. This formed the nucleus of
the Whipple Museum of the History of Science that opened in 1954

c.03 # c.27.1

1928

Cambridge Medical Officer said properties in Little St Mary’s Lane were in a state
so dangerous or injurious to health as to be unfit for human habitation. One house
was so dark he could not read a newspaper, although the sun was shining. He
recommended closing orders prohibiting the use of the houses until they are
rendered and to serve notice to this effect on the owners. The nuisance of a rabbit
skin warehouse in Sturton Street was also being dealt with

1903

Some excitement was caused when it became known that a fire had broken out at the
extensive malthouse of Messrs Christmas and Co., the well-known brewers of Camps
Road, Haverhill. Captain Bridge and the members of the Fire Brigade were soon on
the scene with their hose but the flames had obtained a good hold and a
considerable portion of the wall and roof fell in before the fire was subdued. A
small fire also occurred at an unoccupied cottage in Eden Road. A number of
paraffin matches were found on the window sill which led to the supposition it was
the work of an incendiary
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 22nd December

1978
The northern bypass, described as a ‘Christmas present to Cambridge’ was officially
opened at noon and then closed after police expressed reservations about the state
of the nine-mile road and its interchanges. But as dusk was falling the barriers
were pushed back and it was opened to the public. It includes one of the longest
straight stretches of dual carriageway in the country and police asked drivers to
get used to the road slowly. With the completion of the interchanges next year and
the opening of the M11 Cambridge will have
a road system surrounding it for which many other cities would give their eye-teeth

c.26.48

1953

Four meteor jet fighters crashed in the Duxford area; three pilots parachuted to
safety and one was pulled from his wrecked plane by farm workers. They were on a
training fight from Waterbeach airfield and were not in collision in the air before
crashing. It is possible the pilots abandoned their machines after running short of
fuel. It is the second time that a plane has crashed at White House Farm, West
Wickham; a Meteor came down at the back of the farm just before harvest.

1928

St Catharine’s Farm, Coton, has been taken over by the Stetchworth Dairies. Built
in 1922 it contains the finest buildings of any farm in the Eastern Counties and it
is because of the spacious byres for cows that the Dairies have secured it. It is
another asset to their fine chain of model milk producing farms, which includes
Ditton Hall Farm, Rectory Farm Milton and Aldham House Farm, Chesterton. At Merton
Hall Farm, Madingley Road the cows are milked by electricity.

1903

Cambridge Cheap Funeral Furnishing. Polished Elm Coffin, Glass Hearse, 2 Carriages,
Bearers, and Attendance complete £5 5s. – C. Osler, Mawson Road. Glass Hearse and
Pair, with rubber tyres, 7s.6d. Brougham with single horse, 5s. No extra charge for
Black Plumes or Velvets if required. Coffins finished and delivered in two hours if
required. Guaranteed five per cent cheaper than anyone else – Ellis Merry, Abbey
Walk [Adverts]

c.21.2

Tuesday 23rd December

1978

A disused Methodist chapel at Ashwell may be demolished. It had been hoped to use
it for community purposes as by the end of the century people will have far more
leisure. But in 25 years time the cost of maintaining it would be prohibitive. It
is 100 years old, and is unstable; being built of lime mortar the walls will not
take any load. It will need listed building consent as it is in the conservation
area and planners will have to be satisfied that what goes there will be suitable.

1953

See that trim piece of glamour, tripping along on three-inch heels? She’s probably
wearing darned or holey, faded and ancient undies. Girls have a ‘don’t care’
attitude about what goes underneath and put all their money into top clothes.
Underwear took a back seat when clothes were rationed and it has never regained its
importance. Even quickly laundered and long lasting nylon has not made her change
her outlook enough to suit the undies manufacturers.

1928

A 15-year-old farm labourer from Melbourn was accused of having inserted a filed
farthing in an automatic cigarette machine and obtained a 6d packed of cigarettes.
Charles Cooper, postmaster and grocer of Shepreth said he had a machine outside his
shop and had missed several packs of cigarettes this way. He kept watch, saw the
accused leave the machine, checked the money and found the farthing. The lad said
he had seen other boys do it too.

1903

Cambridge architect Edwin Bays has produced a plan for a new 60 feet-wide road from
Downing Street to Guildhall Street, parallel to Corn Exchange Street. This would
create valuable frontages for business premises on either side and lead to a site
for a new Cambridgeshire County Hall. There would be a fountain to take off the
nakedness of the wide entrance at St Andrew’s Hill, replacing the old Corn
Exchange. It would relieve the congested traffic in the narrow Petty Cury and
provide a direct access to the chief colleges.

c.49.4

Wednesday 24th December

1978

A remarkable cross-section of the community gathered for the funeral service of a

well-known Cambridge personality. There was a former Dean of Jesus College, a
police superintendent, booksellers, shopkeepers, a solicitor, market traders and
college staff. They heard an address and sang hymns. Then they exchanged
reminiscences about the man whose service they were attending, paid tribute to his
memory and went away. A regular occurrence in a town like Cambridge, perhaps. A
distinguished academic or leading businessman had died, it might be thought. But
this service was for a shabby old man with a beard of no fixed abode who had some
113 convictions mainly on drinking charges and who sat and drank in the city centre
– Trevor Hughes.

c.32.9

1953

For unrestrained Yuletide abandon you have to go a long way to beat the Christmas
parties held by the U.S. Army at Lakenheath for children in local homes. When 300
British youngsters join forced with 300 uninhibited G.I.s and embark on a festive
warpath they simply love every hectic minute of it and the breathtaking pace of the
joviality saw them coming back for more. Each child is allocated a buddy – a
soldier whose duty it is to see his young charge goes short of nothing. This year
they had ham sandwiches and ice-cream, as previous experience has shown you can’t
expect a young child to sit down and eat a supreme dinner of high quality and
gigantic proportions.

1928

The benevolent spirit of Christmas descended upon Cambridge Police Station when 350
of the city’s poorest families received good cheer at the annual distribution under
the Police Poor and Needy Fund scheme. “Robert” again proved what a real good
friend to the poor he can be. He relished his job of amateur shopkeeper, skilfully
wielding the butcher’s knife and shovelling potatoes into sacks with good-natured
gusto. With a cheery word for every recipient he sent happy families away loaded
with Christmas dinners and good things in general. Perambulators which had arrived
empty were wheeled away bearing protuberant sacks.

1903

The idea of a happy Christmas being spent by those who are unfortunate enough to
inhabit a workhouse is to most people incomprehensible. But in Cambridge workhouse
Christmas Day is a happy day. The master tempers discipline with mercy and sheds a
small ray of sunshine upon those whose lives have been darkened with misfortune. He
has done more for the salvage of wrecked humanity that is ever likely to be known
by the public at large

c.32.9

Thursday 25th December

HAPPY CHRISTMAS!

Friday 26th December

1978

Residents of Fishers Lane and High Street Orwell were surprised on Christmas Eve
when each house received a bottle of sherry as a gift from a businessman from Dubai
who moved into the village a few weeks before. He said: “It appears to be a genuine
village with an established community and I need a quiet life here, away from
business. Whatever this village needs I am prepared to help”. His commercial
interests include construction, property, hovercraft and broadcasting. He would
like to build a country club like one he has in Dubai which would provide evening
entertainment, Italian cuisine, a crèche and would be open in the afternoon for
families.

1953

The old Manor House at Papworth St Agnes was severely damaged by fire on Christmas
Day. The staircase, sitting room, the kitchen ceiling and two cupboards were burnt
and other rooms were affected by smoke and heat which was so great that it
blistered paint on the beds. A fireman said: “If the fire had really got going the
whole house would have gone, as it is largely constructed of wood”

1928

There was no place in Cambridge where greater efforts were made to bring about a
happy Christmas that at the Poor Law Institution, Mill Road. Gone forever were the
old traditions of Bumbledon for enthusiastic spirits and untiring hands had
transformed this already ‘rejuvenated’ building. The pristine whiteness of the
clean, airy yet well-heated wards formed a background of an array of multi-coloured
decorations of paper and evergreens and from the large female ward came the happy
strains of bright music from a magnificent cabinet gramophone

1903

Addenbrooke's Hospital unfortunately contained many suffers at Christmas but the

season of goodwill was ushered in with the usual ceremony. A large number of toys
having been sent to the Hospital every child was able to have one. Santa Claus
distributed them from a splendid Christmas Tree whose adornment by means of
coloured electric lights was most picturesque. Each patient was the recipient of a
parcel of clothing through the kindness of the Needlework Guild and Miss Bennett of
Orwell. To the patients of the men’s surgical and accident wards Mr Joseph Clark
made a present of cigars and Mr Leathart, the assistant house surgeon, gave them
pipes, tobacco and cigarettes, which were greatly appreciated. If a suitable
environment is conducive to recovery from illness the patients must have made rapid
progress this Christmas.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 29th December

1978

The Secretary of State for the Environment has told Suffolk County Council that
precedence will be given to the encouragement of new growth in Haverhill and that
he will modify their strategic policy to encourage this. The council had also
proposed to divide villages into three categories with different development
control policies but he felt all should be helped to keep their identity and
vitality and this was too restrictive. The first priority should be support for
public transport, especially in the rural areas.

1953

At Winston House Boys’ Hostel, Brooklands Avenue, Cambridge each lad had presents
sent from “Fairy Godmothers” who invited a number of them for dinner. For those who
remained there was roast chicken and Christmas pudding. At The Grange Children’s’
Home, Swavesey the children hopefully hung up their stockings at the foot of the
bed and on awaking found they had been filled. There was no shortage of presents at
the Little Shelford Children’s’ Home, partly due to the generosity of the American
servicemen station in the vicinity. An American ‘Father Christmas’ arrived from
Wimpole Park bringing tennis racquets, bagatelle, darts, dolls and tea sets.

1928

There was no place in Cambridge where greater efforts were made to bring about a
happy Christmas that at the Poor Law Institution, Mill Road. Gone forever were the
old traditions of Bumbledom and the hardships associated with the workhouse regime.
Enthusiastic spirits and untiring hands had transformed this already ‘rejuvenated’
building into a place which re-echoed in every corner to the joyous note of
Yuletide happiness. The vestibules were almost as gaily decorated as the wards,
festoons and balloons meeting the eye in every direction. A novel feature was the
use of Flanders poppies, given by the British Legion. Santa Claus arrived in a
sleigh drawn by two Alsatians; strangely enough the Master was not to be found when
Santa arrived.

1903

Christmas in Cambridge did not pass without its sensation. On Boxing Day three men
were walking along the river bank at the rear of the Abbey Estate when one fancied
he discerned something struggling in the water. The light was dim so they struck a
quantity of vestas but could see nothing. As they turned away the discovery of a
woman’s hat lying on the bank strengthened their belief that something was wrong.
The alarm was given and since then those who delight in mysteries have had a
subject for conversation. No one is reported missing and it maybe a practical joke.
Tuesday 30th December

1978

The East Anglian Railway Development Society urges the restoration of passenger
trains on the Cambridge to St Ives line. Large domestic and industrial developments
have taken place along the route and the new housing on the Arbury Road Estate
would make for increased usage at Histon and even warrant a new halt in the Kings
Hedges area. A Parkway station should be built to serve the Sawston area and
Meldreth become the boarding point for Kings Cross trains.

1953

When the Mayor of Cambridge visited Brookfields Hospital he made a special point of
talking to one little boy who has been in an iron lung since August Bank Holiday.
It was quite a Christmas for this little patient as Wilfred Pickles had promised to
play a record of his favourite tune – ‘The Changing of the Guard’ in his programme
‘Where Are You Now’. The boy is again lucky in that his parents were the only ones
allowed to visit him at the hospital during Christmas. Because of the nature of
their illnesses visitors may not see the other patients. Every child was given a
pillowcase of toys on Christmas morning and their dinner included the traditional
turkey and pudding.

1928

Lady Glanely, of Exning House, was saved from almost certain death when her car
overturned and burst into flames near Royston. She was accompanied by her maid and
the chauffeur was driving when the car came into collision with a cyclist, skidded
and overturned. Within a few minutes the car was a mass of flames and she was
trapped inside, unable to open the door. A man who was passing immediately rushed
up and fought like a madman and managed to drag Lady Glanely out of the debris to
safety. He rescued also the maid and assisted the chauffeur who had been unable to
free himself. But for this man’s brave intervention nothing could have saved her
ladyship. A motor scout who was in the vicinity did his best to quell the flames,
but in vain; the car was completely burnt and all her ladyship’s luggage and her
jewels, which were of great value, were lost.

1903

The Christmas holiday has been observed in Haverhill in the customary manner. On
Christmas Eve the railway officials were kept extremely busy with numerous arrivals
and departures, and thanks to the absence of fog, the train service for the most
part was punctually kept. At noon on Christmas Day toys, oranges etc were taken to
the Burton End Church Sunday Schoolroom, being the proceeds of the recent ‘doll’
service and were distributed amongst the poor children of that part of the town.

Wednesday 31st December

1978

Television reports of unidentified flying objects seen around the world,

particularly over New Zealand, have led to many reports of UFOs in the Cambridge
area. Sightings ranged from ‘blue lights' in the sky to a ‘trailing’ cigar-shaped
white plume. One sighting reported to the police turned out to be bright smoke from
Barrington cement works chimney

1953
“There are cities with rotten cores and bad outsides and Cambridge is in danger of
that” said the Vice Chancellor of the University and Chairman of the Preservation
Society adding: “I would not be averse to a certain number of four-storey flats
rather than development spreading further and further out”. Cambridge was probably
the only town in England which was now more beautiful than 30 years ago. But in
Northampton Street was a ‘horrid desert’ only adorned by a small brick-built
convenience; now the land has been acquired for 19 old people’s cottages in a
delightful architectural scheme.

1928

The Ouse Drainage Board heard the mud and refuse from Ely Sugar Beet Factory was
clogging up the river so that even tugs could not get through even with no boats in
tow, except on a channel ploughed day after day. The water was being held up
towards Cambridge and there was serious danger of flooding. It was a waste of money
to have dredgers in the Ten Mile River getting the mud out when it was being put in
faster by the Beet Factory. Thousands of tons of mud were going into the river and
it was a scandalous affair. The whole of the river between Ely and Denver Sluice
had a thin coating of slime all over it and was the consistency of a mud-pie. It
will not be the Ouse Drainage Board much longer if this goes on: it will be the
Ouse Drowning Board.

c.29

1903

Three Balsham labourers were seen in a gravel pit adjoining Wratall Farm with a
loaded gun, rabbits and nets in their possession. They claimed they had a right to
be there. Under the Enclosure award two acres were apportioned for the benefit of
the parish but the herbage was reserved to the rector who sub-let it. A gate was to
be erected and kept in repair by the rector, but this had not been done so he had
forfeited his rights. One of the men was a member of the Parish Council, by whom it
had been discussed.

2003 STORIES

Thursday 1st January

1979

The Golden Ball at Boxworth, a 13th-century free house, has been undergoing a
period of improvements. There is a completely new bar carefully designed to blend
in with the character of the building, which was originally a bakehouse; it uses
sturdy oak beams from a barn roof at Wakering in Essex and involved the
construction of areas of Tudor bricks traditional in herringbone style. Another
team of craftsmen renewed the kitchen, cellar and toilet areas whilst keeping all
three fully operational. The three donkeys who have established themselves firm
favourites with the customers now have a specially designed stable with a thatched
roof.

1954

An appeal was heard against refusal for a bungalow on a two-acre site on the A45
near Hardwick. The Council said: “This is a most unsatisfactory form of ribbon
development. Many of the buildings already there are most insubstantial and of
unsatisfactory type, lacking full public services”. If the appeal were allowed it
would be difficult to resist further applications. But the owner said she had
bought the land in 1946 & foundations had been laid prior to the passing of the
Town and Country Planning Act. The area was one which required complete re-
development. As the Inspector left to inspect the site he walked into one of the
thickest fogs in recent years, reducing visibility to less than 15 yards.

1929

Zion Baptist Church, East Road, Cambridge was opened on January 1st 1879 and
nothing has been done to the fabric for several years. Now a scheme has begun for
renovating and repairing the church. Mr Dunwell recalled his former Sunday school
fellows: “The boys were ten times worse than they are today. The teachers used to
read to them from ‘Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ which often made them cry, but did their part
in helping to build up character. Today there were not so many willing to work
among the children”

1904

An important property sale was conducted, consisting of various properties in

Sidney Street, one of the most central and important positions in the business part
of Cambridge. Naturally there was a large attendance and the bidding was spirited.
It included the coachbuilder’s factory of T. Hunnybun, including carriage showroom
and harness-maker’s shop. These were withdrawn but sold after the sale at a
considerably enhanced price; we understand they will continue their business in
Hobson Street. A draper’s shop occupied by F. Blott found a purchaser at £3,600.

c.06

Friday 2nd January

1979

Eldon Griffiths, the Conservative MP, has asked for East Anglia, and particularly
Haverhill and Cambridge to be considered an area for building new ‘silicon-chip’
factories. It has a clean uncluttered environment with abundant ‘greenfield’ sites
together with easy access via the modern ports of Ipswich and Felixstowe. There is
a population with a high proportion of teenagers, especially in the ‘overspill’
towns, capable of being trained in the new techniques of the ‘micro-chip’
revolution. He cites an absence of obsolete buildings and embittered industrial
relations that inhibit the introduction of modern machinery and a sturdy foundation
for electronic-type development arising from companies such as Pye and world-famous
university science departments.

1954

A building in Cambridge that probably started life as a private house has just been
rejuvenated at a cost of several thousand pounds. Number 70 Regent Street will be
remembered as the wholesale warehouse formerly used by Barwells, the tyre company.
It is now the Co-operative Permanent Building Society, a luxurious block of offices
with the latest in equipment and a full-length plate glass window, complete with
neon sign. In the past Cambridge has been neglected by building societies. Until
recently there was only one but there are now four more.

1929

The new extension of Whittlesford Memorial Hall is of wood taken from the 1st
Eastern General Hospital, Cambridge. If its timber could talk what a tale they
would learn of the sufferings and bravery of many wounded men. It consists of two
billiard rooms, one containing the billiard table from the officers’ mess at
Duxford Aerodrome and the other from the Red Cross Hospital at Whittlesford on
which the soldiers used to play during the war. The whole is lit by oil lamps,
though it is hoped that electricity will come to the village early next year. The
original hall was opened in 1921.

1904

A crusade against the house sparrow has been launched by the Board of Agriculture.
They are welcomed by the town dweller as a picturesque addition to the wilderness
of streets amid which he passes most of his life. But when cornfields are in
proximity to the outskirts of the town it is no uncommon thing to find that a whole
grain crop has been ruined by the ravages of a multitude of the birds. They inflict
damage upon garden produce, stripping gooseberry and red currant bushes of their
buds, tearing in pieces flowers such as crocuses and pulling up rows of newly-sown
peas. Sparrows have become a pest and no more sympathy need be wasted upon them
than is bestowed upon rats.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty 2004-2005

Monday 5th January

1979

The renovation of Bridge House in Bridge Street, Cambridge has been commended by
the Civic Trust. Judges say this skilful piece of restoration has conserved a
valuable piece of Cambridge, where the scale of the existing buildings is a foil to
the University buildings opposite. The County Council is praised for the extension
to Sutton School with its rich brickwork, inventive windows in scale with child and
adult alike and traditional compatible fenland materials. In Essex commendations go
to Saffron Walden Library and Arts Centre and Thaxted Guildhall. But the new Evelyn
Nursing Home in Trumpington Road, Cambridge has won the only full award in the
region; the handsome building makes an immediate impact on the environment.

1954

Motor cycle scrambles have gradually caught on and last year the number of
spectators has reached 10,000, the Centaur Motor Cycle Club were told at their
annual dinner dance at the Dorothy. Mr L.W. Hallen, who was celebrating 21 years of
business, welcomed a local prodigy, Mr Tommy Price the former World Champion
speedway rider. Mr George Savage, ‘Dickie’ Davies and Aubrey Thompson – men whose
names are bye-words in the motorcycling world – were also present. Highlights of
the year included trick riding events arranged as part of the Coronation
celebrations and the revival of the old game of grass track racing

c.38 : motor cycling

1929

An Isleham baker was summonsed by the inspector of weights and measures for having
loaves deficient in weight. He accepted the measurement although he always put
three ounces of dough above the weight required to cover evaporation during baking.
But under the prosecution act it was stated that the loaves must be for sale and
these had been weighed in the bakehouse. They might in due course have been offered
to the public but were not then for sale. The case was dismissed.

1904

For a span of seventy-odd years Cambridge has had a rallying point from which to
speed the Old and welcome the New Year. The venerable Alderman Deck has sent two
coloured rockets skyward and attracted a portion of the population to King’s
Parade. For the first time a similar event took place at Old Chesterton when his
son ignited the fireworks close to the Horse Grind ferry. But it was not known that
a new ceremony would take place and not a single resident left his abode to witness
the rockets’ flight

c.39

Tuesday 6th January

1979

Cambridge University’s most historic coffin covering in cloth of gold is to be

moved back to Great St Mary’s church. The sombre pall was paraded over an empty
coffin nearly 500 years ago while dons offered prayers for the repose of the soul
of King Henry VII. Following his death the hearse cloth continued to be used in
requiems on the anniversary of his burial. It has been housed for many years in the
Fitzwilliam Museum but will now be displayed under the same roof which Henry gave
in 1505 when he ordered 100 oak trees to be felled at Chesterford to provide the
wood.

1954

The Town Clerk of St Ives, Mr G.L. Day, is to present the council with a mace by
the chief designer of the Goldsmiths and Silversmith company of London. A model of
modern art, it will include four greyhound heads, the Day family crest for more
than 400 years. His family has been connected with the Borough for many years and
his great grandfather was instrumental in getting it incorporated in 1874.
Unfortunately he died before the town’s inception and it fell to Mr Day’s
grandfather to become the first Town Clerk until 1890, when Mr Day’s father took
over. He succeeded to the job in 1940

1929

Cambridge always responds to a good cause with nearly £1,000 collected for the
Miner’s Distress Fund, but the County’s response is very poor. It seems that
requests for large sums – guineas or pounds - to sent to one of the Cambridge banks
does not appeal to the people in the villages, many of whom are not directly in
touch with banks in the way which Cambridge residents are. They do not like to send
in their modest contributions and local clergy should organise collections. The
villages have done splendidly for Poppy Day and Addenbrooke's Hospital and would
welcome the opportunity to support the Miners.

1903

Laurence Humphry, physician, was summoned for not clearing the footway in front of
his house known as Lensfield, on Lensfield Road, Cambridge. The pavement had been
covered with leaves which fell chiefly from a tree in the doctor’s garden so a
constable called and told him it was in a dangerous condition. However the
Corporation had erected a fence separating his land from the highway; his premises
adjoined the fence but did not adjoin the footpath. He had another frontage to
Panton Street and swept the pavement there.

Wednesday 7th January

1979

Two more airlines have applied to develop European passenger and cargo services
from Stansted airport. British Island Airways want to start scheduled passenger
services to Paris, Frankfurt, Dublin and Zurich with cargo flights to Hanover and
Milan. Air Anglia has also recently applied for new European routes and this would
bring about a major development of Stansted from the charter and cargo field into
passenger services. More than 21,000 passengers passed through the terminal in
November

1954

A large meteorite is believed to have been seen over Cambridge. Following reports
that an explosion, thought to have been due to a meteorite smashing into the
earth’s atmosphere, had rocked Dieppe about 160 miles from Cambridge, several
members of the City Police Force have claimed to have seen the object. P.C. R.
Barlow, on duty in Drummer Street described ‘a meteorite of exceptional size, oval-
shaped and green in colour’ falling in a south-east direction. Other policemen
claim to have seen the flash as it apparently struck the earth.

c.12

1929

Too much time is now taken up by the police in traffic management, which is not a
primary police duty; it could be controlled by the RAC and AA patrols, County
Councillors argued. They were better than the police because they had motors. It
would be difficult to make arrangements with the associations and would probably
mean the motor scouts becoming special constables. Others felt traffic control
should be dealt with by a special police, though the time was not ripe for them to
increase the numbers. But Col Tebbutt said he would not like to see two sorts of
police in the country.

c.26.48

1904

The terrible catastrophe at the Iroquois Theatre Chicago has caused English
theatrical managers to overhaul their precautions against fire. Mr Redfern has
caused the whole of the arrangements for the Cambridge New Theatre to be made as
safe as possible. The stage and foot lights are all electric, it is amply provided
with fire hoses and experienced firemen are told off each night. The hydrants are
on the high-pressure main and they have all desirable exits. The greatest danger is
panic but every man, woman and child had the means of getting out of the building.
He has timed the people making their exit and it had never exceeded four minutes,
without one emergency door being opened.

c.76

Thursday 8th January

1979

Romsey Methodist Church in Mill Road, Cambridge will have its final service before
closing down. The congregation will continue to worship in the nearby Diocesan
Chapel in Romsey Terrace. After alterations it will reopen as a youth and community
centre. The church buildings will become a gymnasium, the hall will remain a youth
club and a coffee bar and social centre will be built onto the car park. It is also
hoped to include a quiet room and tv den. The main users will be a playgroup, over-
60s and youngsters. The scheme is being organised by five Cambridge churches.

c.83.06

1954

George Robey, knighted in the New Years Honours, appeared at Cambridge Guildhall
with a variety company in the 1920s and made his last appearance at the New Theatre
in September 1933. The Daily Express asserts that he took a science degree at Jesus
College and was an engineer for four years. In his autobiography Robey claims to
have had part of his education in Cambridge but says his father’s speculations went
wrong and his undergraduate dream had to be dropped. Now Dr Brittain, keeper of the
records at the college, has proved that he never was a member of Jesus, although he
had once hoped to become one.

c.76

1929

Two Ashdon brothers were charged with the theft of a pair of gent’s shoes at a
dance in the village Labour Hall. They had hidden them in a hedge. When the theft
was announced by the M.C. the dancers made a collection amounting to 11s.6d. One
brother had contributed to the collection but dare not say that the shoes had been
taken as a practical joke. He later took them back into the lavatory of the hall.
In a village like Ashdon there was not much humour about and by their actions they
had made themselves look silly and idiotic

1904

The Eastern Vacuum Cleaning Company has cleaned two of the large rooms, the coffee
room and the commercial room, of the Lion Hotel in Petty Cury, Cambridge and the
result is remarkable. The carpets are rich, large carpets, so large in fact as to
be almost unwieldy under the old method of beating, but under this system they have
been cleaned in the most perfect manner and not a particle of dust can be found.
Out of one carpet 28 lbs of dust and dirt was extracted and now the whole of the
hotel is to be dealt with in similar manner

c.27

Friday 9th January

1979

Cabinet Ministers have met to discuss how to handle the twin crises of the strikes
by lorry and petrol tanker drivers which threaten to paralyse road traffic, halt
industrial production and strip supermarket shelves of food. The fuel shortage is
not yet affecting Eastern Counties bus services and British Sugar Corporation is
continuing its sugar beet campaign at Ely which is not oil-fired. Farmers have
expressed fears about feeding livestock after Cambridge lorry drivers voted to join
the unofficial strike. The Transport and General Workers Union has been supporting
the strike by provincial newspaper journalists by refusing to cross their picket
lines with supplies of newsprint.

c.26.48

1954

Part of the pavement has been roped off after a finial stone fell from the top of
St Ives Free Church. While it is not expected that any more of these stones –
placed under the weather vane – will fall, no risk is being taken. A steeplejack
from the famous Larkin firm climbed to the top of the steeple and examined the
damage, which was due to both age and weather. The last full-scale inspection of
the 95-year-old steeple was made in 1929 when a ‘big job’ was done on it.

1929

The Chief Constable said that one of the cars now in use was a danger to the life
of the Deputy Chief Constable; it had been used every day for the past ten years,
so it had done extraordinarily well, but was now positively dangerous to go about
in. The cost would be about £150. The question of payment arose and Mr Taylor
objected to “this wretched system which is going on all over America of paying by
instalments”. It was agreed a new car be purchased and paid for now and a sub-
committee was appointed to make the purchase.

c.34.6

1904

Considerable damage was done by a fire that started in the attic at the Rose Hotel,
Rose Crescent, Cambridge. News was received at the Fire Station by means of the
fire alarm post on Market Hill and they were soon on the scene with the horsed fire
escape and tender. Much damage was done in a comparatively small area but every
room in the hotel suffered from the effects of water, which saturated the ceilings.
Fortunately none of the bedrooms were occupied at the time

c.27.4

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 12th January

1979

After years of waiting Cambridge got its Northern By-pass at last a few days before
Christmas. Four years ago, at the second public inquiry it was described as
“urgently needed” and three years before that the council was saying that it was
even then “already overdue”. It was needed to take traffic pressure off the
congested city centre. Heavy goods lorries thundered through Cambridge day and
night, destroying the environment and giving the drivers a difficult job. Then on
December 21st in the twilight hours the barriers were pulled back and the road was
officially, and then publicly opened. Already it has made life easier and quieter.

c.49.162

1954
A crowd of about 100, including a fair sprinkling of undergraduates, saw Queen
Elizabeth the Queen Mother and Princess Margaret arrive at Stanley Woolston’s
antique shop in St Andrew’s Street, Cambridge on one of the private shopping visits
which they so often make while at Sandringham. The Royal Party remained inside for
an hour and during this time one of the biggest crowds to be seen had collected.
The pavements on both sides of the street were a solid mass of people and shop
assistants took up vantage positions in windows overlooking the scene. The mid-day
meal must have been late in many homes judging by the number of housewives with
heavily-laden shopping baskets who stood in the crowd.

c.02

1929

The Wolseley 16/45 h.p. ‘Silent Six’ is the finest two-litre six-cylinder car that
money and experienced have ever succeeded in producing. Its silence, smoothness and
rapid acceleration are really wonderful. It is vibrationless from 6 to 60 mph. Let
us give you a trial run – we shall be pleased to do so. Tourer £365. Saloon, £375.
Authorised main distributors – E.T. Saint & Co. Ltd, Regent Street, Cambridge. –
advert

1904

An inquest was held at Guilden Morden on a 70-year-old man who was given a dose of
laudanum shortly before his death. His daughter said she had never known him take
it before; she obtained two-pennyworth and gave him half a teaspoonful neat.
William Bridgeman, registered chemist from Ashwell, said two grains was a fair dose
for an adult. The doctor said laudanum was a great deal too much used in that part
for pains of all kinds. Two grains of opium was too much and dangerous for such an
old man but not sufficient to account for his death. He had died from heart
failure.

Tuesday 13th January

1979

Crucial talks are being held to try to unravel Britain’s transport crisis. The
immediate threat to fuel supplies has eased but there will be no evening bus
services in Cambridge and Ely; Eastern Counties say this is the best way to
conserve stocks so that most bus services could operate for as long as possible.
Some supplies are still getting through to Ely sugar beet factor where farmers are
taking their own crops in with tractors and trailers as road haulage drivers are
not crossing picket lines.

1954

St Ives council were told that the ‘rival’ fair supplied by the Showman’s Guild in
opposition to the ‘official’ fair supplied by Mr S. Smart, did not infringe upon
the Corporation’s rights. The Clerk said that when he heard the ‘rival’ fair was to
be held on Anderson’s field he wrote a threatening letter, hoping it would be
abandoned. It was not a proper fair, only a pleasure fair and the only things that
could be bought were sweets. The council could apply to the Government for an order
to exclude it.

c.27.4
1929

Sir – The Cambridge Surveyor offers to supply ‘Standard Bins’ at 4s. 9d and limit
the amount of refuse. These are certainly tidy but judging from the state of some
of the bins one feels that potential disease forces lurk under the lids, especially
on murky warm nights. The advantages of the old wooden box or tub is that when the
bacteria and damp have done their work the said container perforce refuses refuse –
I.M. Tired. Editor: I believe the sanitary dustbins are infinitely preferable to
the old wooden boxes without lids that often decorate our pavements and provide a
happy hunting ground for stray dogs.

c.21.1

1904

The recent inquest on an old man who took a dose of laudanum sends a warning. The
tendency nowadays when any minor ailment calls for relief is to rely far too much
on medicines. Many of these specious remedies are not the innocent compounds their
manufacturers claim and many a patent medicine is absolutely poisonous. There is a
certain ‘soothing syrup’ extensively used which will soothe an infant into the
sleep of death; eight or ten drops answers the purpose, the child dying speedily
with all the symptoms of opium poisoning. 15,000 children are killed every year by
soothing syrup and other similar preparations.

OPIUM

Wednesday 14th January

1979

The Government’s East Anglian Emergency Committee, set up after the lorry drivers’
strike became official has established a ‘hot-line’ telephone to give round-the-
clock help to the public and industrialists. The drivers’ union has agreed to give
priority to the movement of livestock, solid fuel for schools and supplies to
hospitals and old peoples’ homes. Cambridge Co-op has appealed for customers to put
out empty milk bottles for return because of difficulties of obtaining new ones.
The dairy in Sleaford Street delivers about 100,000 bottles of milk daily.

1954

Cambridge councillors recommend the purchase of half-an-acre of land fronting East

Road owned by Herbert Robinson Ltd for £5,420. Jesus College lands, consisting of
a reading room and 59-63 East Road (lock-up garages, stable and land off
Staffordshire Street) will be bought for £5,710. The trustees of John Stanley have
inquired whether the council desires to purchase vacant land in Gas Lane and Jesus
College has asked about nos.18-28 Staffordshire Street. An architect with
experience of the type of development contemplated will be asked to prepare plans
of the detailed lay-out of the area

1929

At the Playhouse I had the pleasure of seeing ‘The Three Students’, the first of a
series of Sherlock Holmes films with Eille Norwood in the role of the detective. It
was of special interest because the greater part of the film was taken at
Cambridge. A reference in these columns some years ago to another Sherlock Holmes
film, ‘Moriarty’, in which John Barrymore appeared as Holmes in his college days at
Cambridge, brought a letter from Mr Norwood who wrote “When we filmed ‘The Three
Students’ we took some of the scenes at my old college, St John’s”.
HOLMES

1904

Caxton and Arrington Guardians met at the Workhouse when the Master, referring to
the consumption of tobacco and snuff in the House, said that non-smokers received
nothing equivalent to the tobacco received by smokers. Mr Anthony objected to
tobacco-smoking and thought the ratepayers should not be asked to provide anything
that was not good. But Mr Evans said it aided digestion and was one of the
pleasures the inmates enjoyed. It is only given to people over 60 years of age,
including the old ladies. Non-smokers cannot appreciate the pleasure of smoking.

Thursday 15th January

1979

The first UK heart transplant operation outside London took place at Papworth
Hospital. This is the fifth of its kind to be carried out in Britain. The operation
lasted for seven hours and was conducted by a team of heart surgeons based at
Papworth and Addenbrooke's led by Mr Terence English. Papworth hospital turned its
attention to heart surgery in 1954 and more than 1,000 major heart operations have
been carried out there in the last five years.

1954

Cambridge Waterworks is to supply the Ramsey and St Ives Joint Water Board with a
quarter of a million gallons of water a day until 1965. The Board was created in
1937 but its initial plans for abstracting water from the River Ouse had to be
abandoned because of ‘gross pollution’ from untreated sewage. They have bored four
wells at Earith but other sites did not produce results so the only alternative was
to buy water in bulk, although this means laying 12 miles of mains.

c.24.2

1929

Joseph Ashworth Sturton, principal director of Messrs Sturton Ltd of Fitzroy Street
and a former Mayor of Cambridge has died at Bournemouth. The son of Joseph Sturton,
the founder of the business 100 years ago who developed the land now known as
Sturton Town, he was born above the shop and proved an industrious business man,
opening branches throughout the region. In 1919 he purchased Thurston’s bakers and
confectioners and soon added a café. Mr Sturton was one of the first in Cambridge
to interest himself in the motor car and took up the commercial car in connection
with his business. He was a prominent nonconformist and founded the flourishing New
Street Men’s Bible Class.

1904

The Cambridge Free Library committee are desirous that no resident should remain
ignorant of the means at their disposal for acquiring knowledge. They have
authorised the sale of the new catalogue at considerably less than cost price and
issued a circular to every house. The Central Library reading room, with its wide
selection of newspapers and periodical literature, invariably has its full
complement of readers. Borrowers are induced to take a work of fiction and another
work away together and so a taste for reading of the useful kind is being
instilled.
c.77.4

Friday 16th January

1979

Charges at Cambridge car parks and parking meters are to rise. Prices will increase
from 25p to 30p for an hour at Lion Yard and a day’s parking at Queen Anne Terrace
will now cost 30p. Park Street will remain unchanged. Parking meter charges have
not gone up since 1976 and will double to 10p, with the excess charge rising to £5.
Increased use of the three central car parks is expected to bring an extra £15,000
next year but because of the rates forecast an extra £45,000 needs to be raised.

1954

The Great Ouse River Board hopes to borrow £750,000 for the first part of the flood
protection scheme. This includes purchase of land for the construction of a tail
sluice at King’s Lynn and sites for bridges over the relief channel. Ten inhabited
houses are scheduled for demolition. The Pollution Officer says samples of effluent
from Ely sewage works were found to be of a highly polluting character and had
caused a heavy mortality of fish.

c.29.4

1929
The many Cambridge friends of Mr Raymond Bennett, the comedian, will regret to
learn of the misfortune which befell him and the variety company, the Piccadilly
Follies, when the New Hall Theatre, Tiverton, was completely destroyed by fire. His
worldly possessions were reduced to a pair of stage trousers, an old coat and
twopence. The company is in dire straits without money or their stock-in-trade as
all their possessions were with them and they have lost everything.

1904

Some London people having an artistic sense come to Cambridge for identification
marks for motor cars. Under the new Act motor cars may be registered in any county;
each has one or more letters of the alphabet allotted to it and underneath are
printed the number of the car. London has but one letter, ‘A’, and as the
registered cars there already number over a thousand the one letter perched over
four numbers looks awkward. Cambridgeshire is endowed with two letters ‘C.E.’ and
has presently only two numerals beneath, making a nicely-balanced identification
mark. But the demand may not continue as the number of motor cars, as well as of
drivers in this county, rapidly approaches the hundred.

c.26.48

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 19th January

1979

Cambridge’s northern by-pass is not a thing of beauty and has exposed the city’s
none-too-glorious backsides. Milton sewage works, the wrong end of the Arbury
estate and a few dumping grounds that so far we have been able to conceal. For the
local travelling along this stretch of dual carriageway is a new and rather
bewildering experience. Coming at everything from an unfamiliar angle creates an
impression that north Cambridgeshire as I knew it has been wiped off the map. The
really beneficial effect was been the easing of the pressure on the Northampton
Street / Castle Hill junction; five times I have passed through these usually
overworked traffic lights with little delay.

c.49.162

1954

Cambridge planners are contemplating the rebuilding of premises in Sidney Street to

complete the road widening between Petty Cury and Holy Trinity Church. In 1939 the
Essex Insurance Company agreed to rebuild nos 62-64 Sidney Street but owing to the
war the scheme was postponed. Then in 1943 they sold no.64 to Messrs Boots who are
now seeking planning permission for change of use and this is an opportune time for
the scheme to go ahead.

c.44.6

1929

Sir – Cottenham and Histon parents who have children using the Ortona bus to and
from school in Cambridge are perturbed at the condition in which the children
arrive. They are compelled to travel on the top deck of the open-top bus when it is
full at the bottom. This usually happens in wet weather. What prevents the bus
company from sending a covered double-deck bus for their use? Children from Histon
have an alternative to go by rail, which is considerably cheaper and are provided
with a heated carriage and kept dry – A Parent

c.26.46

1904

The Old Bailey heard the case of an Ely lady, Florence R.; her first husband
William had obtained a divorce nisi citing Henry F. as co-respondent, though it was
never made absolute. But Florence married Henry, or at least went through a form of
marriage, but as the first was not dissolved the second wedding was illegal and
bigamous. Further complications followed. Henry went away to South Africa and she
made the acquaintance of a man named B., whom she subsequently married. Her mother
subsequently married William’s father in the belief he was dead. William thus
occupies this bewildering position: His father is his father-in-law. His mother-in-
law is his step-mother. His wife is his step-sister. Two other men have married his
wife. Florence was sentenced to five day’s imprisonment

WOMEN

Tuesday 20th January

1979

The heart transplant operation at Papworth Hospital came within a month of the
decision to close down its cardiac unit. The Regional Health Authority wants to
start work on a new unit at Addenbrooke's Hospital because they say Papworth is
inconveniently located and uneconomic in its running costs; a substantial range of
improvements would be needed if it was to remain in use. The new cardiac unit at
Hills Road would have 90 beds with operating theatres and support facilities. Work
could begin in 1985
1954

Cambridgeshire is not a county where woodland areas predominate and the

preservation of outstanding trees has long been the concern of the County Council.
They have made a tree preservation order covering the double avenue of elms which
runs for two miles south of Wimpole Park, one of the finest in England. In recent
years some of the trees have been affected by disease but most are in good
condition. An avenue of beech trees of great distinction at Hildersham Hall and a
line of horse chestnuts at Harston together with trees in the grounds of the Manor
House are also covered.

c.18

1929

Competition in the tea-shop line is terrific, Cambridge is stiff with them, a court
was told. Two ladies had taken the tenancy of 11 St John’s Street in 1923 and
increased the takings with a large number of resident customers as well as
undergraduates. They made everything they sold except for sweets and cigarettes &
paid themselves between £60 and £80 a year out of the takings. Trinity College said
if the premises could not be used as a tea shop the rental value would drop from
£120 down to £85 as it was in a bad position for an ordinary retail business.

c.27.4

1904

As I passed through the huge swing doors, the crisp tinkling of electric bells,
mingled with a loud confused chatter of female voices, smote on my ear. I was
standing for the first time in a Telephone Exchange. I passed through another door
into a long low room along the sides of which ran what appeared at first sight to
be a huge ‘Upright Grand’ piano and seated in front of it a long row of girls
stretching into an almost dim perspective. Each girl has 200 subscribers to attend
to and immediately one lifts his receiver a lamp emits a golden glow and the girl
puts a small brass plug in a hole, pushes a lever forward and speaks to him. She
then puts another plug in the requested number.

c.27.7

Wednesday 21st January

1979

Thousands of schoolchildren got a surprise day off and others were without the
regular meals service as the National Union of Public Employees strike bit hard
throughout the county. All Newmarket schools were shut. Dustbins went unemptied
and motorists were warned that no road gritting would be done. The striking council
manual workers are demanding a shorter working week and a minimum £60-a-week wage.

1954

Pye Ltd of Cambridge has set up the first television station on the African
continent, at Casablanca. It has also received another substantial order for
cameras and equipment from the Japanese public service broadcaster. During last
year alone Pye delivered equipment to many countries including the U.S.A., Italy,
Belgium, Norway, Germany and France and the continuing expansion of television
throughout the world promises to bring even more valuable export orders.

c.27.1
1929

Cambridge Councillors considered erecting 50 houses of a type within the pecuniary

means of the people who would have to be moved from insanitary houses. In some
places eight people were living in a single room under exceptional circumstances of
poverty. But a man might say ‘I am paying 3s. 6d. a week for two rooms and I cannot
afford any more’. So what type of house was going to be built? In some of the
houses there were elderly people and moving them perhaps two miles would be quite
out of the question.

c.23

1904

A Warkworth Terrace man told Cambridge magistrates that he believed his neighbours
had some artificial means of making their voices heard by him alone: “They use
talking machines and electric wires contrived to convey sound to a certain point
only. I have seen what look like an electric telegraph wire in their garden beside
a system of beams, boards and ropes which I conclude to be part of some telephoning
system. Nearby in Melbourn Place there lives a telegraph clerk who searches my room
with an exceedingly strong electric searchlight and conveys a message by Marconi’s
wireless telegraphy to let them know the right time to call out and wake me”

c.27.7

Thursday 22nd January

1979

Cambridge dons gave over £10,000 last year to support student leisure activities.
Thanks to their generosity undergraduates may soon be excelling in the art of
throwing and catching the saucer-shaped Frisbee after the grant of £50 to launch a
Cambridge University Frisbee Association. Other grants included £200 to the
University Angling Society to enable the national student angling championships to
be held near Cambridge. & £60 for the purchase of Hungarian dancing boots for the
International Folk Dance Society

1954

Proposals to erect traffic lights at the junction of East Road and Newmarket Road,
Cambridge were debated by councillors. One said: “Lights are not needed here; they
are an obstruction and an annoyance to drivers, another added: “The speed of
traffic is about half of other towns and now we are proposing to slow it up still
further”. A roundabout would be better than lights. But another said: “As a cyclist
I am conscious of danger every time I pass the junction, which is blind in more
than one direction, you have to be darned quick or you are dead”

c.26.48

1929

There are about 800 unemployed men in Cambridge, due to seasonal work and the
closing down of the Cement Works, one of which had closed permanently though the
others would reopen in a short time. They include 84 builders’ labourers, 138
painters, 32 carpenters and 16 plasterers. The council has drawn up a programme and
134 men are working for the Borough Surveyor but they urge all who had work for
painters, plasterers or builders to put it in hand at once.
c.32.1

1904

Cambridge councillors considered the purchase of a steam fire engine. The two fires
at Addenbrooke's Hospital and Fitzroy Street were bad, but took place under
favourable conditions – in the first the wind took the flames away from the
Hospital and in the other their was a brick wall, instead of lathe and plaster.
Since then there had been two other fires, in Sidney Street and Rose Crescent which
might have resulted disastrously. In the centre of town whole blocks of buildings
might be burnt down. The only additional expenditure would be the cost of an
engineer. But the Fire Brigade did not want one and they ought to know more than
councillors.

c.34.75

Friday 23rd January

1979

Alan Biley, a free transfer from Luton less than four years ago, could now be worth
a quarter of a million pounds to Cambridge United – and every goal sends his
current transfer market value soaring still higher. United manager John Docherty
this week dismissed a £175,000 bid from Norwich as ‘ ridiculous’ after watching the
21-year-old striker finish a burst of seven goals in four games with his first hat-
trick in the 5-0 hammering of Cardiff. Docherty has also turned down a £100,000 bid
for 21-year-old newcomer, Derrick Christie who he bought from Northampton for
£50,000 less than three months ago.

c.38 : football

1954

A tenancy variation of a shop on King’s Parade, Cambridge, is a rare occurrence and

rarer indeed is the appearance of a new trade to this world-renowned street. From
being used as premises for University outfitters A.R. Crossman, no.12a will become
K.P. Camera Shop and promises to become as well-known as its parent, Campkins of
Cambridge. The firm was established in 1800 and has remained in its present
premises at Rose Crescent since 1867

c.27.2

1929

Caxton Rural Council received a letter from the Beds. Cambs. and Hunts Electricity
Company seeking permission to fix an overhead wire from St Ives to Eltisley. The
line would go through Hilton and Papworth and be a great boon. Mr Moss asked if the
wires would be high enough to clear a man on a loaded cart. He had seen the wires
near Cambridge and they seemed very low. The Chairman said this was a matter for
the owners of the land. He pointed out that it was the top wire that was the
dangerous once, and the lower ones were merely guards.

c.24.6

1904

Three Cambridge gentlemen were discussing the new Motor Car Act which introduces
car numbers. “There is no dashing past a policeman now because the number would be
easily seen and identification would follow as a matter of course. For instance,
that car is CE 25.” “No, 35”, contradicted one of his friends, “20” exclaimed the
third. The car drew up and they looked again – it was 23. If it had been going at
40 mph in a cloud of dust it is impossible to say what number might not have been
given it. If the members of the police force have no better eyesight than those
gentlemen it seems to me that complications will ensue.

c.26.48

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 26th January

1979

Cambridge came to a halt early today in the worst traffic chaos for decades.
Ungritted icy roads produced a nightmare tangle of cars and lorries which choked
all man roads into the city for up to three hours. Dozens of car drivers abandoned
their vehicles and walked into work and thousands of schoolchildren waited in vain
for buses which failed to get further than the road outside the bus depot. The
traffic only began to move again when council workers broke picket lines outside
the Mill Road depot and brought gritting lorries back into action

c.12

1954

Messrs Vicom Ltd appealed for the development of Bourn aerodrome as a factory for
light engineering. They were incorporated in 1951 to manufacture electronic
equipment for high frequency radio for use in military aircraft. Their current
contracts were for the Canadian and United States Air Forces and were of great
importance. County planners say there is a danger of labour being attracted from
the land in an area where it was scarce but only four of their 110 employees had
ever had any connection with agriculture and a high proportion of the new
employment could be female labour. The land was some of the poorest, there was a
great deal of concrete on the site and it would take three years to produce
anything. Bourn was a picturesque village with building sites for 77 houses and was
an ideal place for the centre of employment.

1929

The Inspector of Schools said that in recent years there have been great
improvements in Cambridge; they had got rid of such places as Sturton Street
Infants and Occupation Road schools which were not fit to teach children in. Not
only was it impossible for the teachers to give of their best but it was absolutely
cruelty to children to make them go there. Occupation Road in particular was really
insanitary. They had done exceedingly well in the reduction of the number of
unwieldy classes; there are now 11 classes of over 50 children and 35 with from 40
to 50.

c.36.5

1904
Cambridge magistrates said the custom of sending round for ‘Christmas Boxes’ was a
bad one and liable to be greatly abused. They heard how a groom from Castle Street
had obtained a shilling from the cashier at Hallack and Bond’s shop after claiming
that he was an ostler at the Carrier’s Arms. He also tricked Eaden Lilley’s into
giving him a similar sum. No less than 11 similar charges could have been made
against the prisoner who was sentenced to seven days hard labour.

c.39

Tuesday 27th January

1979

Attempts are being made by Cambridge’s ‘dirty jobs’ strikers to close a number of
city schools in support of their £60 a week minimum pay claim. Hundreds of workers
are on strike. Householders are being urged to take their own refuse to the
Coldham’s Lane refuse tips as collections have been suspended indefinitely during
the pay dispute. There were several minor accidents as drivers faced treacherous
roads made worse by the overnight freeze and the supply of salt for roads is almost
exhausted. Yesterday the Botanic Garden recorded 4½ [FOUR AND A HALF] inches of
snow – the biggest fall since 1963.

c.32.5

1954

Parts of the river Cam were frozen over this morning after a night of extremely
cold conditions. The maximum temperature yesterday was 31 degrees F. but last night
it dropped to 18 degrees. The severe weather had caused all previous output records
to be broken at the Cambridge Gas Works.

c.12

1929

A young Cambridge lady in attempting to make a short cut across Midsummer Common to
the towing path became embedded in the half-frozen silt and mud thrown up by the
dredger. Another lady went to her assistance and suffered a similar fate. Their
frantic signals soon attracted the attention of passers-by; two or three young men
waded out to them while others formed a human chain. The would-be rescuer was
extricated with little difficulty but the first lady became more deeply embedded.
Eventually a ladder was procured and a rescue effected. Fortunately no bones were
broken but she was so badly shaken up by her ordeal that she had to be removed on a
hastily-improvised stretcher

c.46.5 # c.29.4

1904

The new St Andrew’s Street Baptist chapel, Cambridge, was formally dedicated. The
exterior of the building is captivating, the interior is beautiful and the
structural arrangements for the comfort of the congregation well considered.
Unfortunately the pastor who had so strenuously worked on the scheme was unable to
attend due to illness but so that he should not be entirely deprived of
participation in the events the deacons arranged to have the speeches delivered in
the building transmitted to his home by means of electrophone

c.83.05
Wednesday 28th January

1979

Two hundred people employed by Cambridge building firm R.H. Smart have lost their
jobs. Work has ceased on the firm’s major council housing jobs at King’s Hedges,
Arbury, where it contracted to build 214 houses and flats and employed 80 people.
The firm began in 1960 as a plumbing business; it started on its first council
housing contract in 1974 and took over Newmarket builders M. Carrick. Next year it
had contracts worth £4 million to build 400 council houses

c.23

1954

The extension to the nurses’ training school in Owlstone Road, Cambridge has
everything for the convenience of the nurses. There are two shampoo rooms where the
girls can wash their hair, two ironing rooms and a drying room for doing their
washing and provision may be made for a small kitchen so they can fill a hot water
bottle at night. Each bedroom has its own washbasin, while the dressing tables are
really dressing-tables-cum-writing desks. A games room has been provided where they
can enjoy table tennis or listen to the radio. There is also a piano so they can
hold dances there if they wish. With such ideal conditions it will not be
surprising if would-be-nurses will want to come to Cambridge for their training.

c.21.2

1929

The County Architect presented sketch plans for a new building on the Cambridge
castle site, containing office accommodation, with council chamber, library and
storerooms. It was futile to prepare plans for their existing needs when it was
practically certain that under the new Local Government Bill they would have a
large amount of additional work thrown upon them. Mr Dunn had erected the present
County Hall in Hobson Street & was able to compete with the best architects in the
country with regard to a beautiful scheme and a beautiful building. But if he was
forced to collaborate with another architect there would be delays and they would
never get the building erected.

c.35.1 # SHIRE HALL

1904

Many are the amusing incidents related by canvassers for Parliamentary honours. One
called at a modest house in Norfolk Street, Cambridge and asked for the master of
the house. A sturdy working man appeared but when asked for his support burst out:
“Look here, guv’nor, you must see the ‘missus. I have only voted once, and since
then our rates has gone up. So she says I’m no class at voting, and in future she’s
going to vote herself, instead of me”. In vain did the canvasser endeavour to
explain that the man’s good wife could not vote, but he responded “Can’t vote?
Can’t she? Perhaps you’ll tell her so!”

c.33

Thursday 29th January

1979
The railway line between Swavesey and Cambridge will be used for a passenger
service on March 31st for the first time since its closure in 1971. Trains will
call at Longstanton, Oakington and Histon – at least for one day. A special train
is being organised by the Railway Development Society in conjunction with British
Rail. It will leave Swavesey at 1pm and arrive at Cambridge an hour later,
returning at 5.30 pm. The fare for adults will be about £1, children 75p and cycles
free.

c.26.2

1954

It is possible that the bar floor of the Ferry Boat Inn at Holywell may be raised
to find out whether a skeleton lies under it or not. Mr A.L. Cornell of the Society
for Psychic Research wants to prove that he has had a conversation with a spirit
who told him she was buried in a spot only a foot or so away from where the piano
now stands in the bar. The alleged ghost is Juliet Tousley who makes an annual
visit to the inn every March 17th, the day when in 1050 she committed suicide
because she was jilted. She is said to be ‘perfectly happy’ to be buried in the pub
and has no wish to be moved to consecrated ground.

GHOST

1929

Certain documents of an historical nature are stored in Cambridge prison on Castle

Hill and access is permitted to University students for the purpose of study. But
if a County Hall is built on the site the Prison will be pulled down and the
documents removed. The University fears that they would lose a very big educational
factor and urge the County Council to provide accommodation for them in their new
building. Having regard to the tendency of modern legislation to give Councils more
work they would probably require considerably more accommodation at the end of 20
years and such storage would then be valuable for administrative purposes.

c.43 # c.35.1 # SHIRE HALL

1904

A savage attack has been perpetrated by a prisoner at the Cambridge gaol upon a
warder named Andrews, which resulted in severe injuries. Amongst a gang of
prisoners chipping wood was one of morose disposition who suddenly rushed upon the
unsuspecting warder and dealt him a terrible blow with a hatchet. Assistance was at
hand and the prisoner was secured. He has been reported to magistrates and
subjected to a severe flogging for his cowardly assault. Flogging is the most
severe punishment than can be inflicted on a prisoner and is only carried out in
serious cases such as this, or for mutiny.

c.34.9

Friday 30th January

A Cambridge judge has hit out at the growing practice by people accused of minor
drugs offences of opting for trial by jury. Cannabis possession was the kind of
case that was dealt with only too frequently by magistrates and was not an issue
that should be brought to higher courts. Judge David Wild was speaking after he
sentenced a 17-year-old tailor who had been found guilty of possessing a tiny
amount of cannabis in a tin during a police raid. He was fined £25 and ordered to
pay £150 towards the costs of the prosecution. The case formed part of a campaign
to establish certain technical defences to drugs charges.

DRUG

1954

Some people have the idea that it will cost £4 a week to obtain admission to the
Cambridge Residential Home for Old People when it is built. “But”, said the Mayor,
“I would like to make it clear that this does not mean everybody will have to pay
that sum and whether or not they have the full means they will not be excluded from
the Home”. Each resident will have a bed-sitting room with running water and will
share the dining and sitting rooms. There will be a small sick bay and a guest room
where elderly people can stay for limited periods. All meals will be provided and
there will be central heating throughout

c.32.9 # OLD

1929

A story of how a large family had been living in a tent of sacks and sticks was
unfolded at Cambridge court. The man had not done any work for eight years and the
woman provided for her family by hawking. They lived by wandering about the fen
district camping out, and the only time the children had proper covering was when
they were in poor law institutions. They had in a tent in Cuckoo Lane, Cottenham;
it could not be called waterproof, on the floor was a small portion of straw and
there was a foul smell

c.32.9

1904

The ‘Eastern Morning Gazette’, a Conservative organ published at Norwich for the
last 12 months, has ceased publication. An editorial states this is not due to the
hopelessness of the political situation but to other causes, it will be remembered
that the price was recently reduced from a penny to a halfpenny. The ‘Norfolk
Evening Standard’ will continue to chronicle all the news of the day with its
customary impartiality, to shape and guide public opinion and to champion the
Conservative cause.

c.04

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 2nd February

1979

The National Skating Association commemorated a hundred years of organised speed

skating with a professional match at Bury Fen, Earith watched by 300 people. It was
a Cambridge journalist, James Drake Digby, who set up the Association after he had
covered the skating at Mepal during the great frost of 1878. He was so impressed by
the achievements of the champion of the day, ‘Fish’ Smart of Welney that he
determined to get rid of the cheating caused by heavy betting. He arranged a
meeting in Cambridge Guildhall which led to the formation of the NSA with the Mayor
as chairman and himself as secretary

c.38: skating
1954

The skating championship of the fens was held at Cambridge Sewage Farm when the
Ralph Moore Cup was won by D. Beba of Moulton Chapel. As temperatures dropped still
further last night, pipes became frozen up and water engineers were inundated with
calls for aid. The new electrical apparatus for thawing pipes is intended primarily
for use at institutions where a large number of people are deprive of water. There
is only one machine operated by a skilled electrician who can deal with perhaps a
dozen cases a day. No more orders can be accepted for three days.

c.38 : skating

1929

Cambridge Preservation Society wishes to prevent any repetition of the

disfigurement of the country as has taken place around the Shelford Road. They felt
that at all costs the pleasant road to Madingley and the view from the Hill should
be secured. Finding the danger was acute they decided to direct whatever funds were
available to this end. They have bought about 380 acres of land but built up a
considerable debt that must be repaid.

1904

Sir – I read of safety concerns about the new St Andrew’s Street Baptist Church in
Cambridge. No public building in Cambridge is better provided with safe and speedy
exits. The new gallery can be cleared in much less time than before; all the doors
open outwards, the stairs are wide, the exits are accessible and unobstructed. The
chapel is lighted by electricity but there is an auxiliary service of gas which can
be brought instantly into use. Panics very rarely occur in ordinary religious
assemblies and we have taken all reasonable precautions to deal with an unexpected
calamity – Chas. Joseph

c.83.05

Tuesday 3rd February

1979

The doors of the Two Swans pub in Clarendon Street, Cambridge, may reopen – 67
years after they closed for the last time. ‘Last orders’ was called for good in
1912 and the pub was converted into a grocery and off-licence. Now Mr Percy Wing is
hoping to change it back. The pub would keep its old name and be run as a free
house. His wife said: “It would be something intimate, no music, no juke boxes, no
darts – by doing this we can keep in touch with older as well as younger people who
could come in for a cup of coffee. I think there are a lot of people who prefer
coffee to a drink”

c.27.4

1954

Mr Charles F. Morley, who died recently, was a cyclist who won the Eastern Counties
championship for every distance from sprint to fifty miles. He was truly a great
little sportsman. He was a founder member of the Granta Cycling Club & many of his
successes were gained on the quarter mile circular dirt track of the University
Bicycling Club off Grange Road. As a speed skater he was up with the amateurs of
his day; he was elected chairman of the National Skating Association Fen Department
and presented a handsome challenge cup. He was the sole survivor of a quartet of
friends who made local and national history at the turn of the century including
J.H. Priest, one-mile cycling champion, F.J. Christmas, cross-country champion and
A.E. Tebbutt, amateur skating champion of Great Britain.

c.38 : cycling # c.26.485

1929

Mr George Sharman, of March, the head of a well-known Isle of Ely family, was
killed through falling in front of an express train at March railway station. He
founded the ‘Cambridgeshire Times’ series of newspapers in 1872 and was actively
concerned with the management for many years, two of his sons subsequently taking
over the reins. Recently he took over an estate and land agent’s business. Several
years ago he had a seizure while waiting on the March station platform and fell on
the line but was not seriously injured. A widow, five sons and a daughter are left
to mourn their loss.

c.04

1904

Magistrates received a complaint with respect to the Swan public house, Bottisham.
An individual had applied at the house for some tea and bread and butter, but
failed to get them. This was a very undesirable state of things in a public house
which existed for the accommodation and refreshment of the public. The provision of
food is equally as important as the provision of drink. When a man asked for such
simple things as tea and bread and butter or cheese, certainly it ought to be
within his reach. Similar complaints had come from University men. The public house
was on the highway and something should be done to oblige the public.

c.27.4

Wednesday 4th February

1979

Unemptied dustbins and plastic sacks full of refuse left on pavements outside
Cambridge houses are becoming hazards to pedestrians. Some householders do not
realise that the bins are not being collected because of the dustmen’s strike and
the City Surveyor has warned that technically it is an offence to leave the
dustbins on the pavements. He is appealing to people to dump their rubbish either
in the Coldham’s Lane pits or on the 55 emergency dumping sites around the city.

c.29.8

1954

Before the war the Post Office was able to provide a telephone within a few days of
an order but with the outbreak of hostilities the Government decided it should
concentrate on the provision of telephones needed for the Defence of the Country.
No reasonable person would question that decision. When the war finished it was
seriously short of plant and equipment but the demand increased rapidly with a
growing list of applications for telephone service. This together with Government
limits on expenditure has led to a delay in the installation of new equipment

c.27.7

1929
General regret will be felt at the news of the death of Mr Eliab Pamplin, partner
in the well-known firm of agricultural engineers. With his brother, Walter, he
followed in the footsteps of his father who was a pioneer in founding the
engineering concern and under them it grew to still larger proportions. He farmed
extensively and also found time to devote to public service; his knowledge
concerning road construction proving of great value to the Highways Committee. He
took an active interest in the life of Cherry Hinton and recently made a gift of
£100 to the Parish Council to extend the recreation ground.

1904

The recent decision to reduce the number of days on which the Cambridge Sanitorium
can be visited from two a week to one a month has effected a change to which the
patients’ parent are not becoming easily reconciled. On Sunday afternoon several
made the journey hoping to see their children through the windows. But all the
blinds had been drawn and the children instructed not to look out. The parents
waited for half and hour in the rain and then all but one departed. One man, who
had not seen his son for five weeks, waited in an adjoining field. His vigil was
rewarded when one of the blinds was raised and a timid little face peeped out and
waved. The father went away somewhat gladdened at having seen his child in the
distance.

c.21.4

Thursday 5th February

1979

Smokers may be in line for another tax increase in this year’s budget, but the
Chancellor cannot touch 6,000 members of the Tilty Tobacco Curing Co-operative near
Saffron Walden. Founded 30 years ago by a vicar raising funds for repairs in his
church tower it is now run by his daughter from the Old Vicarage. More than 400 new
members enrolled last year and applications are pouring in. While most smokers are
paying around 60p for a packet of 20 – 50p of which goes in duty – the syndicate’s
members can produce fat cigars at 1p. each, 20 cigarettes for 7p and an ounce of
taste pipe tobacco for less than 15p. There is no tax to pay as the group is non-
profitmaking and all products are for members’ own consumption

1954

Pye’s new underwater television camera has been rushed to Italy to aid the search
for the Comet airliner which crashed into the sea. It is more sensitive and much
smaller than any previous model and had at the time of the crash hardly gone beyond
the drawing-board stage, many of the parts had not even been made. Within six days
a casing had been built for operation at a depth of 250 feet, all the parts had
been made and the camera assembled. Information was then received that the Comet
was probably lying 600 feet below the surface and consequently a much stronger case
of different design was required. It was completed in seven days and flown out.

c.27.1

1929

A Lancashire farmer who came south during the war and took a farm at Wimbish told
the Bankruptcy Court that he should never have done so had it not been for Mr Lloyd
George’s promises. He’d said this kind of farming in this country should never fall
back into the condition that it has done and also promised credit banks which have
never been fulfilled. Six out of the last seven seasons had been bad; he had three
sons working for him who never had anything for 11 years, not even pocket money.
They thought they were entitled to 10s. a week beside their food; “At last they
got so disgusted I gave them three guineas each and they bought a Ford car”, he
said.

c.22

1904

Samuel Bell of the Brookfield beer house, Cambridge, applied for a full licence. It
was in a growing neighbourhood, near the Saxon and Norman Cement Works where 300
men were employed. It was doing a good beer trade and he had received numerous
applications for spirits. The nearest full licensed house was the Royal Standard, a
quarter of a mile away. Two petitions had been extensively signed, some be people
who were teetotallers

c.27.4

Friday 6th February

1979

“Commuter” criminals invading the countryside around Saffron Walden from the new
motorway collected booty worth more than £500,000 last year. Almost every country
house burglary can be blamed on carloads of London villains using the M11 to raid
new territory say police. They come from the East End, Tottenham and over the
borders into Kent and have often returned to their metropolitan dens before the
crime has even been reported. Last year Cambridge police warned shops that London
thieves with “shopping lists” of property they planned to steal would descend as
soon as the M11 brought them within an hour of the city.

1954

A stained class window was dedicated at Balsham parish church to the memory of the
late Canon H.J.E. Burrell who was rector for 24 years, his mother and sister.
Ordained in 1890 he came to the village in 1910 and retired to Cambridge in 1934.
He had a great knowledge of architecture and was a talented wood carver who spent
eight years working on a superbly carved font cover for the church.

1929

Mr Geoffrey Pyke of the Malting House School, Cambridge appeared at London

Bankruptcy Court. He’d opened the school in October 1924 as a research school for
children’s education and never had any idea of making money out of it. He had
expended £15,000 on it as against fees amounting to some £600. It was amply staffed
and records were kept of the sayings and doings of the boys. That formed part of
the research work and although the records were of scientific value they would
fetch only ten shillings as waste paper. In fact he would not expect to receive a
‘bean’ for them from anybody who bought the school.

c.36.5

1904

There was another infringement of the rules for preserving order at the Cambridge
Theatre and three undergraduates were ejected. They occupied seats in the front row
of the stalls and commented somewhat too audibly on the subject of the piece. When
requested to leave two quietly complied but their companion remained seated and
accordingly two attendants were instructed to remove him by force. The
undergraduate, seeing that his ejection had been determined upon, capitulated in
time to avoid the indignity of being roughly handled. “Don’t take me out, my dear
sir”, he pleaded. “I will go out quietly”. He did so. It was not necessary on this
occasion to stop the performance.

c.76

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 9th February

1979

Cambridgeshire County Cricket Club reaches the end of an era with the retirement of
Peter Taylor, who has served as player and administrator for 47 years. He made his
Minor Counties debut in 1932 as a Downing College undergraduate and now, a retired
Soham Grammar School master, he feels the time has come for a change. He read
Geography and history at Cambridge University and played all three years against
Oxford to win a Blue, but that was at soccer. But he played for Cambridgeshire as a
batsman for a number of years before earning a reputation as a swing bowler

c.38 : cricket

1954

The landlord of the Baron of Beef does not mind how much money he spends to make it
the brightest public house in Cambridge. Music is the order of the day and this
certainly suits his customers, many of whom are American servicemen. A large white
organ arrived on Monday but was too big to go through the door and had to be taken
away. His latest brainwave is to install an electric Hammond organ worth £2,000 and
an experience man, formerly a cinema organist, has been engaged to play it.

c.27.4

1929

An aged Haslingfield woman who had lived for 17 years on parish relief in a state
of semi-starvation was found dead in her cottage. After the funeral police searched
the house and in all sorts of nooks and crannies found gold, silver and notes. But
on several occasions the Relieving Office had found her eating a meal of toast,
margarine and tea, and had actually sent out for bacon for her. He family had no
idea she was in receipt of relief and regarded her as a person of independent
means.

c.32.9

1904

A Wimbish labourer told the inquest into his three-year-old son that he earned 14
shillings a week and had eight to keep. His wife was strange in her mind; she
looked after the children as well as she could, but did not wash the linen so well
as she might. The cottage had been lime-washed by order of the sanitary authority
owing to scarlet fever, and all of them had taken colds in consequence of it. The
doctor said when last seen the child was very dirty and lying on rags

c.32.9 # c.21.5

Tuesday 10th February

1979

The old Rex Cinema and ballroom in Magrath Avenue Cambridge which has been a source
of controversy among nearby residents is now owned by Cambridgeshire County Council
who paid £33,000 for it at auction. The building has been almost derelict since the
Abbey Sports and Social Club closed in October 1973. The exact future of the site
has yet to be decided but it will extend the present facilities at the Shire Hall

c.76.9

1954

A large new railway depot is to be established at Chesterton sidings. One area

equipped with two Goliath cranes will store new and second-hand rails and emergency
stock; another will refettle serviceable switches and crossing units while a third
will be equipped for the mechanised pre-assembly, loading and despatch of complete
lengths of plain line for permanent way renewals. There will also be dismantling
and sleeper areas together with a chair and smalls area and a flash butt welding
plant. New access roads will be built together with a canteen.

c.26.2

1929

Mr Walter James Stearn, the Cambridge photographer, has died. He was a son of
Thomas Stearn, the founder of the photographic business, and with his brother Harry
made it well known in University circles. His success as a sporting photographer
meant that he was known to more undergraduates than any other townsman. In his
younger days he was a keen sportsman, rowing being his principal interest. He was
president of the Rodney Dramatic Club and always sent bouquets to all the lady
members of the cast of the plays, but could never be persuaded to appear on the
boards

c.65.5

1904

Police told Linton magistrates that most public houses were satisfactorily
conducted. But the landlord of the Swan, Linton had not exercised control over his
guests, the publican of the Three Hills at Bartlow had been convicted of fighting
with another publican from Brinkley outside the Montford Arms, Horseheath and the
landlord of the Wheatsheaf beerhouse, Duxford had permitted people to remain in his
house when drunk. The licence of the Pear Tree, Hildersham was transferred from
Frederick Peters to George Gibson.

c.27.4

Wednesday 11th February

1979
The best place to be during the current strike by members of the Public Services
union is tucked up in bed in new Addenbrooke's Hospital. Those outside are at the
mercy of a skeleton ambulance service, ever-growing waiting lists and a soon-to-be
crippled out-patients service. Those inside simply have to put up with a reduced
menu and eating off paper plates. At this time of the year it is normally at
bursting-point with about 86 per cent occupancy but on Friday there were 150 beds
at both new and old hospitals empty. The real suffering is in the homes of the
3,500 people waiting for operations. Waiting lists vary from about six months from
gynaecological to 18 months for general surgery

c.21.4

1954

Councillors discussed the delay in the installation of a water supply for

Longstowe. One said: “During this spot of bad weather I was ashamed to see children
going along before school early in the morning, carrying sacks containing bottles
of water for cooking and for washing. Some are having to walk over a mile”. It had
been hoped to start the scheme in 1952 – were they going to have to wait another
six years. If the consulting engineers were no good why not throw them out and get
some new ones, they asked. But the scheme had been changed so many times it was not
fair to blame the engineers

c.24.2

1929

The latest form of political propaganda, the Conservative’s touring ‘Talkifilm’ is

visiting Cambridge. The programme includes a speech by the Prime Minister which
gives an uncanny effect of realism and a silent film showing the opening up of
Canada. The van will visit Pound Hill, the Premier Hall Chesterton and Occupation
Road, winding up at Cherry Hinton Road corner

c.33 # c76.9

1904

Haverhill is justly proud of its fine old parish church and the pleasure of the
parishioners has been enhanced by the reopening of the tower and bells after
complete restoration, the cost of which was borne by the family of the Rev Robert
Roberts, vicar for 55 years. In 1883 large cracks had appeared in the tower, some
extending the whole way up. An entirely new foundation has been put in & the west
side of the tower practically re-built. Various ‘finds’ have been made including
several human bones, a stone coffin lid and part of an ancient font.

Thursday 12th February

1979

Expansion plans for Robert Sayle’s shopping complex in the centre of Cambridge were
supported by the City Council’s controlling Conservatives who say the extensions
will improve shopping facilities and bring much needed car parking space into the
city centre. But Labour says the extra cars would cause traffic problems and in any
case the centre of Cambridge should not be put up for sale. Sayle’s want to extend
their shop floor space facing Lion Yard and provide more than 100 public and
private parking spaces. It would benefit city traders and motorists alike
c.49.65

1954

The elm tree on the pavement near the junction of Drummer Street and Emmanuel Road,
Cambridge, is probably 250 years old. It is a little over 70 feet in height and
sixteen feet in circumference. In the 1940s some of the lower branches were removed
to prevent contact by omnibuses but now extensive rotting has taken place in the
main branches. These should be removed and any hollows scraped out and filled with
concrete, but in view of its scientific interest as much as possible should be
retained. The Botanic Garden hopes to perpetuate samples from the old tree by
grafting some of its twigs on to young elms

c.18

1929

Cambridge is becoming increasingly interested in folk songs and folk dances thanks
to the local branch of the English Folk Dance Society. Keith Falconer, a
Cambridgeshire man who is making a big name for himself in the singing world, is to
perform at St Columba’s Hall. A sword dance and Morris jigs are included in the
programme.

c.39

1904

Messrs. Church and King’s establishment in Sidney Street is the first business in
Cambridge to be cleaned by the Eastern Vacuum Cleaning Company. The settees in the
showroom were a fair test of the process. In thick upholstery dust must necessarily
accumulate but after the cleaner had been applied no amount of beating could raise
a speck of dust. The carpet also was cleaned effectually and the colours
brightened. Mr King said: “It takes absolutely all the dust out”

c.27

Friday 13th February

1979

Two hundred Iranian students made Cambridge demonstration history when they knelt
on Parker’s Piece, preyed and recited from the Koran. In what is thought to be the
first political demonstration starting with a mass prayer ritual on improvised
prayer mats covering the wet turf, the Muslims called upon Allah to bless the
efforts of the Ayatollah Khomeini to establish a republic in Iraq based on Koranic
law. They then marched to the Market Square. No incidents were reported though some
confusion existed among Saturday shoppers, knowing it was the first day of Rag
Week. But the slogans ‘ “Death to the Shah” and “Long live Khomeini” soon dispelled
their doubts.

c.33

1954

In order that the chaos of last year’s St Ives fair should not reoccur, the Council
is to obtain an order making it illegal for any rival operator to set up a pleasure
fair within two miles of the Market Hill within 21 days of the Michaelmas Fair. It
will exclude Warner’s Park, the Car Park, the Market Layers and other council-owned
property which may be used for the storage of caravans and other fair equipment.

c.27.3

1929

Histon Parish Council is to adopt the Lighting Act and install 16 standard electric
lamps fitted with 100-watt bulbs at a cost of £225. There was every possibility of
the electric light cable being extended in a year or so when several more lamps
would probably be installed. Nine standards will be installed at Impington where
the electric cable only runs down the main street. The Electric Light Company would
lay more cables when a sufficient number of applications had been received from
private consumers but this was unlikely to be for some time to come

c.24.8

1904

A fire broke out at Haddon House, Newmarket. It originated behind a stove in the
hall and was discovered by Mr Butcher who telephoned for the Fire Brigade at nine
o’clock. The call was received by Lieut. Cooper, the brigade was at once called and
at ten minutes past the men left with the hose reel for the scene. The firemen
(seven in number) found the skirting, joists and floor boards round the stove well
alight but a good supply of water soon extinguished the flames and the brigade were
back at the fire station by ten o-clock. Owing to their promptitude the fire was
not of a very serious nature.

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 16th February

1979

As Britain faced yet another day of icy chaos with more bitterly cold weather on
the way, the Army was making plans to move in and clear snowbound roads, said the
‘Snow Minister’, Mr Denis Howell. In Cambridgeshire workmen battled to clear some
of the worst snowfalls, 179 snowploughs and diggers are out but salt stocks are
reaching a critical level. Seven weather-hit coach passengers were put up at
Parkside police headquarters; they were given mattresses and bedded down in the
gym. But there has been a sudden cut back in crime figures; even burglars and
thieves are staying at home

c.12

1954

Extensions to the Owlstone Road training school for nurses in Cambridge will
provide accommodation for 70 more nurses in a fine new building with all the
advantages that new methods in architecture can produce. In the nursing career
there is none of the ‘too old at 40’ business. The fully qualified nurse has a
secure career in a variety of appointments until she chooses to leave at the
retiring age. But she must always remain receptive to new ideas and changing
methods
c.21.3

1929

For the first time since 1895 there was skating on the River Cam. A thick sheet of
ice powered with white snow, stretched unbroken from Silver Street to the electric
light works. It was too inviting to be resisted and several skating parties took
advantage of it. Many undergraduates took to the ice in front of King’s College and
at Quayside a man was seen cycling on the slippery surface. However the ice bore
and he neither came off nor went in. At Silver Street it was possible to cross to
the mill on the ice but below Jesus Lock, where the dredges is at work, the ice was
broken up by the flow and black pools and crevices had appeared in the thin
surface.

c.12 # c.38 : skating

1904

The funeral took place of Mr W.R. Brown. He served his time as a grocer on Hills
Road but retail grocery had no charm for him; books and book lore engrossed very
much of his leisure and he acquired much antiquarian knowledge about local persons,
places and things. Not only could he describe what he saw but he could produce
sketches from his own pen and pencil. The local press received many contributions
from him and he published a series of numbers variously entitled ‘Cambridgeshire
Cameos’, ‘Mems and Gems’ and ‘Leaflets of Local Lore’

c.39 # c.65

Tuesday 17th February

1979

Generations of courting couples in Fulbourn are mourning the loss of a stately elm
known as ‘The Bird Tree’ which has succumbed to Dutch Elm Disease. It stood in a
hedgerow on the Babraham side of the village near Doggett Lane & was a meeting
point for hundreds of couples. But despite its role in the marriage game no one was
admitting to its place as a secret witness to their romantic dreams. “Of course I
know that tree well and so do hundreds of others, but I don’t want to be named and
I’m not splitting on my friends” said one elderly resident.

c.18

1954

As a result of the Air Ministry decision to close Reserve Flying Schools the V.R.
Social Club bar at Cambridge Aerodrome is to shut. It provided recreational
facilities for R.A.F. Reservists in training and since 1947 has hosted an annual
ball and Christmas party. Many members loaned Squadron crests to decorate the Club
premises and a fine array of silver and pewter pots adorn the bar shelves; these
should now be reclaimed. . The lounge, television room and billiards room will
still be available for use by Reservists until the end of April.

c.26.1

1929

All Cambridge seemed to be skating or carrying skates this morning and there is
something like five inches of ice on many parts of the Granta. Eight hardy spirits
took the plunge at the Town Bathing Sheds though it took nearly half an hour to
break the ice. There have been bathers ever since the front began and many of them
have hardly missed a day. The cold was so severe that the comb stuck in the head of
one of them who was doing his hair. But the Open Flying Mile Straight Race, fixed
to take place at Cowbit Wash, near Spalding, was abandoned after the Skating
Association reported that it was not possible to provide a straight mile course to
conform with the conditions.

c.38 : skating

1904

The Cambridgeshire Public House Trust Association was registered in 1903 and has
taken over the Tharp Arms Inn at Chippenham, the Duncombe Arms at Waresley with the
George Inn, Babraham soon to follow. The movement was a commercial undertaking with
a philanthropic end. They wanted to raise the tone of the public house and promote
temperance. The managers obtain no benefit from the sale of alcoholic liquors but
make a profit on non-intoxicants; hot soup is supplied and villagers seem to
appreciate the change as more and more public houses are ready to supply non-
alcoholic refreshments.

c.27.4

Wednesday 18th February

1979

Cambridge’ University’s historic seat of government, the Senate House, has been
closed to dons and sightseers after a lump of plaster dropped from the 200-year-old
ceiling, regarded as the most ornate in the city. Although it only measured 18
inches by six there is no doubt that it would have given anyone a nasty clout,
falling from that height. Building experts are worried because they can find no
obvious cause for the fall and a minute inspection is to be undertaken for any
fissures which might indicate damage elsewhere. One problem worrying dons is that
certificates for the next official degree ceremony have already been printed
stating they were conferred in the Senate House.

c.36.9

1954

The home of a Swavesey couple was completely destroyed by a fire, which is believed
to have been caused by a faulty flu. Green Cottage was originally of plaster and
thatch and had once been used as a public house, but it was recently converted to
brick construction. The fire started in the roof, which was thatch covered by
corrugated asbestos and it had partially collapsed by the time firemen arrived. A
floor also collapsed but they were able to save the outbuildings and salvage a
small quantity of furniture.

1929

The North East Coast contingent of the unemployed marchers who are making their way
to London arrived in Cambridge. Carrying banners, singing old war songs and
rattling collecting boxes they entered the town via Huntingdon Road. The local
Labour Party and Trades Council having decided not to give them official
recognition the 88 marchers proceeded direct to the Poor Law Institution, Mill
Road, where the staff had made preparations for them. They were given Irish stew
and entertained at their private cinema installation.
c.32.5

1904

An enquiry at Swaffham Prior into the repair of fen droves heard evidence from
elderly residents that they were used by the public before the Highways Act of
1835. C.P. Allix said he remembered the droves for 50 years. All kinds of vehicles
had been driven over the roads, with the exception of a motor car. But Newmarket
R.D.C. said they were specified as private roads in the parish award of 1814 and
had never been repaired by the ratepayers at large. There was nothing to show they
had ever been used as public highways.

c.44.65

Thursday 19th February

1979

Two hundred workers at Pye Engineering Services will lose their jobs when the firm
closes this summer. The company designs and manufactures press, tools, jigs,
fixtures and special purpose machines and closure is blamed on the lack of demand
due to changes in technology and product types. It started in 1946 as a small
engineering shop with a dozen workers and at its peak employed 350 people. But
large losses have been made annually and two years ago 130 workers were put on a
three-day week because of a collapse in sales.

c.27.1

1954

A 45-roomed mansion at Ashdon owned by Mrs Tansley Luddington was completely

gutted. By the time firemen arrived the fire was well out of hand and the roof had
fallen in. There was little that could be done to save the house or its contents. A
suit of armour was amongst the few things recovered from the mansion, which dated
back to the 15th century.

c.61.5

1929

A serious fire in which some valuable implements were destroyed occurred in a large
hut at Whitehall Farm, Littleport. The Fire brigade were handicapped as the pipes
were frozen and the whole of the structure was completely burnt out, including a 12
hp Alvis motor car, the axle and gear box of a Chevrolet lorry, a cultivator and
set of harrows. Prompt action by Ely police & firemen averted a serious fire at the
Bell Hotel Ely where a large beam behind a fireplace in one of the upstairs rooms
had ignited. It was in a difficult position to get at and there was no alternative
but to take the fireplace out.

1904

James Gimbert won a claim against Sutton Shepherds’ Independent Friendly Society.
It had been registered in 1863 and he had been secretary for 55 years before
resigning owing to ill health, aged 83. He became ill, suffering very badly from
rheumatism and claimed relief until January 1903 when it was refused on the ground
that he had been seen out of doors after seven o’clock in the evening, contrary to
the rules of the society. He had been collecting the Sutton Poor’s Land rent for
which he received payment. They had suspended him from sick pay and refused his
subscription.

c.37.2

Friday 20th February

1979

Sometime during the night of July 17th last year a one-inch fuel pipe running under
Mildenhall air base fractured. It was only a small leak but it is only now that the
disturbing consequences have become apparent. The fuel threatened a water bore hole
that served the whole of Ely and Littleport and an emergency water pipe had to be
laid. Although the pipeline is on an American air base, the British taxpayers will
pay the bill which is likely to be in the region of half a million pounds

c.24.2 # c.45.8

1954

An Irish lorry driver employed as a scavenger on the Mildenhall U.S.A.F. base was
fined for stealing a chicken. When seen plucking the bird on the air base he told
police that the fowl had been caught by his Alsatian dog. But he told the court
that the bird had escaped from its owner’s premises through a hole in a fence. “I’m
afraid it will be an expensive chicken”, the magistrate told him, “You will have to
pay £5 for it”

c.45.8

1929

A serious fire broke out at Caius College, Cambridge. Two rooms in Tree Court were
completely gutted and others badly damaged. Policemen attracted by the blowing of a
whistle in Trinity Street got a hydrant in the courtyard to work and the Fire
Brigade was quickly on the scene but the inside of the building was almost a
furnace. The fire was quickly got under but not before considerable damage had been
done, including the falling in of a large part of the ceiling. The firemen
experienced bad conditions owing to the intense cold, the water froze on their
clothing and icicles were left hanging from the ledges

c.34.75 # c.44.5

1904

Sir – owing to the recent heavy rains the road from Ely High Bridge to the opposite
bank has been submerged for some time. Why does not the Council raise the road,
providing tunnels underneath to carry the water away? This would render the
approaches less dangerous for vehicular traffic. I am told the road is a private
one but the Ely Urban Council lights the bridge and fences the road in times of
floods by chains. Why not go farther and place and man and boat there day and night
at the public expense also. I have heard it suggested that a temporary platform
might be erected by the side of the post for foot passengers – T. Burns, Stuntney

c.44.75

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 23rd February
1979

Ashley is to lose the ducks which have made their home on the village pond for as
long as anyone can remember. The wild mallards have to go because they are eating
all the plants and silting up the pond with their droppings. The pond has between
18 to 30 ducks on it although the water area is only big enough to support about
four. At the moment it looks very unhealthy and if something is not done soon it
will begin to smell like a sewer, say the Parish Council. Now the Ashley Pond
Preservation Society has decided to move the ducks to somewhere with more water.

1954

Reception of voluntary female patients at Fulbourn Hospital is presenting

difficulties owing to a large number of non-voluntary patients. It is unfortunate
that people wishing to enter the hospital for treatment have to be kept waiting and
staff are doing all they can to speed up admissions. Many older persons who were
quite well should be found accommodation outside the hospital, but no such
accommodation existed. Hospitals all over the country are experiencing the same
difficulties

c.21.5

1929

C.W. Horn did not, as he had hoped, beat the professional time for the three-miles’
circular skating course at Lingay Fen. The ice, though hard underneath, was
distinctly soft on top and it gave the officials some anxiety owing to the large
number of people who insisted on clustering round the finish. The crowd numbered
several hundred. The closest heat was between G.E. Martin and F. Bebas from
Spalding, there being only two-and-a-half seconds between them

c.38 : skating

1904

Cambridge Liberals have been turned out of their handsome home in St Andrew’s
Street. Few provincial political clubs have had such a palatial clubhouse with
large lofty rooms, spacious hall and staircase with a terrace overlooking gardens.
The deceased Alderman, Henry Rance, who built the extensive premises practically
ruined himself in the process. Members are now removed to a property in St Tibb’s
Row formerly occupied by a now defunct newspaper until new premises are completed
on the site of the old Bird Bolt Hotel.

c.33.9 # c.61

Tuesday 24th February

1979
As the rubbish collectors’ strike continues it seems we are a tidy lot. Those now
familiar piles of black shiny plastic have been kept in excellent order. A few ‘hot
tips’ have burst into flames but as the strike goes on each dump begins to acquire
a character of its own. At Arbury Court the residents’ loyalty to the Beehive
supermarket gives the tip a distinctive orange glow, but it is piled up against the
side of the men’s’ lavatories, blocking the air vents. In Glebe Road loose potato
peelings and carrot tops spoil a tidy dump but probably the worst is the one in
Nuffield Road.

c.32.5 # c.29.8
1954

Chesterton’s has been a beautiful village but during the past 20 years it has been
spoiled by neglect and the erection of ugly buildings. Now its ancient village
green site, the only remaining ‘pleasant corner’ would be spoiled by the erection
of a public convenience, say residents. But the city council plan to improve the
island with a cycloramic wall and flowers round the convenience. Only five houses
overlook the site and the existing police box would be removed. It was in a
development area where 200 houses and an old people’s home were to be erected.

1929

Sir: Quite a number of people took advantage of the frozen river last weekend to
skate to Ely and among them were three Newnham girls. It is 34 years since last
such a journey was possible. It was February 1895 that I and two friends undertook
the journey. On arrival it was suggested we continue to Denver Sluice but after two
miles the ice was very bad, so we returned. I wonder how many have ever succeeded
in it, a distance of 72 miles there and back. I am fond of skating and have been to
Ely five times – ‘Septuagenarian’

c.38 : skating

1904

A Cambridge cab proprietor was summonsed for not keeping his cab in a proper
condition. A policeman said he found the near side window completely smashed, and
the front seat saturated with water. He moved the cushion and found it was mouldy
underneath so that it must have been in that condition for some time. The side
panel had come away from the body and when it was washed water ran on to the
cushions. Defendant said that the driver was responsible for the cleanliness of the
cab but magistrates said he should know the state of his vehicles and fined him
five shillings.

c.26.48

Wednesday 25th February

1979

A group of Cambridge firemen left Parkside on board the old Rolls Royce-engined
turntable ladder which is bowing out of service after 29 years to make way for an
up-to-date replacement. They are making a round trip to Penrith, the factory where
her engines were built, to raise money for charity. During her years of service she
had been at the scene of major fires such as that at the Garden House Hotel and,
more recently, the Talk of the Town.

1954

The fight by farmers in the Swaffham Prior and Burwell Fens to stop the Government
from compulsorily purchasing their land reached a public inquiry. It had been
pasture until the Second World War forced the landowners to turn it into arable;
much of the land had to be drained and concrete roads added. The Ministry claim the
farm buildings were very poor and ought to be rebuilt but it was sheer madness to
erected brick buildings because the land would not stand it, being black peat. It
was not unknown for vibrations caused by passing lorries to cause buildings
partially to collapse.
c.22

1929

Cambridge councillors debated the proposed exchange of Butts Green for New Square
in order that it might be converted into a parking place. If I lived in New Square
I should not be at all pleased at the idea of that nice little patch of green
giving way to a parking place, but if I had a business establishment in Fitzroy
Street I should say “Yes, let the cars park there by all means”. There is a danger
of New Square being built upon in the near future and residents may consider a car
park the least of two evils. Others are concerned about using the amenities of
Butts Green, though one questioned whether it was used for anything but beating
carpets.

c.32.3

1904

Since the introduction of picture post cards by Messrs Raphael Tuck five years ago
much rapid strides have been made in the development of this delightful form of
art. The 1904 productions surpass everything had has been previously issued. Each
card in the ‘Oilette’ series is a veritable miniature oil painting, so perfect that
to use it as a postcard seems profanation. The demand for these cards is simply
unprecedented. Every particle of the work is entirely of English production and the
previously undisputed superiority of continental colour cards is a thing of the
past.

c.65.5 # POSTCARD

Thursday 26th February

1979

One of the longest-serving landlords in Cambridge is Noel Archdeacon and his wife
Hannah Mae of the Cow and Calf public house on Pound Hill. They are particularly
well-known to their Irish regulars, several of whom were customers at their two
previous Cambridge pubs, both of which have disappeared. The Britannia in East Road
was demolished years ago and The Swan in Norfolk Street is now a private house.
Their present pub has belatedly had a complete internal facelift and now has one
large lounge where there is plenty of room for the new pool table.

c.27.4

1954

The death of Mr John Berry Walford, founder of the Ortona Motor Company has
recalled memories. He bought up the old Cambridge Motor Omnibus Company; its
double-deck vehicles had swept down lamp-posts, been involved in several accidents
and were continually breaking down. The Ortona service started in August 1907 with
four single-deck buses, but ran at a considerable loss because passengers felt
safer in the old horse trams. When the First World War broke out a number of bus
chassis were commandeered, the bodies were stored and later re-mounted on other
chassis. In 1936 they became part of the Eastern Counties Omnibus Co.

c.26.46

1929
Cambridge Guardians debated purchasing number 137 Gwydir Street for the few
children in the Workhouse. Mr Francis said they should not build on that side;
there were complaints of the smoke and grime and he could not imagine a much worse
place. The right place was at Chesterton where they would at least get the air and
the sun. Mr Lofts said they could not afford to expend that amount of money, while
they could board children an extension was unnecessary. There was no rule against
boarding out children under three but they tried to keep babies with their mothers

c.32.9

1904

County Council electioneering tactics at Cherry Hinton were exposed in confidential

correspondence between two potential candidates. Mr Neal, the owner of Cherry
Hinton Hall, was too unknown to have the slightest chance of carrying the seat.
Many scarcely knew there was a Hall and he had not had time to make it a centre of
interest. The parish is Radical to the backbone and the Conservatives would be
giving the seat away to the opposition were he to stand. However Mr Brooke had
great strength with the cottagers and even the Dissenters would support him. In the
event of his being elected he would not serve once the Education question had been
settled and would stand down, making it easier for Mr Neal to win the seat.

c.35.2 # c.33.35

Friday 27th February

1979

The long-awaited scheme for adding a community centre complex to the Mill Road
public library in Cambridge has been given the go-ahead. It aims to inject new life
into the old building which had been in danger of closure. But this sparked a
furious row and after intensive public pressure the county council relented and
agreed the refurbishing and extension plan as a way of keeping the building open,
reducing costs and keeping everybody happy. It will become a blue-print for other
dual-use projects

c.77.4

1954

The Cambridge Water Company is to start work immediately on a new five-million-

gallon reservoir on Lime Kiln Hill which will double the reserves of water.
Rainfall during the winter months had been substantially below average and the
replenishment of underground water storage severely diminished. A low rainfall next
year might endanger their ability to maintain supplies during periods of peak
demand. Improvement had also been made to the Fulbourn Pumping Station where new
machinery would soon be installed; this will afford temporary relief from the
situation where demand for water had equalled their maximum yield

c.24.2

1929

Cambridge farmers heard that a telephone has now been installed at Bartlow railway
station; they could not understand whey they were not installed generally all over
the country. Most farmers were on the telephone today and the railway company were
losing a lot of business by not having telephones at all stations. Many farmers
sent pigs to factories by road because they could not get in touch with the railway
to order a truck

c.26.2 # c.27.7

1904

Swavesey has been visited by another heavy flood and several householders obliged
to get fresh lodgings. The County Council has had temporary footbridges, with
handrails, put across the gateways against the Swann pond to keep the footway open
to the church and station. One gentleman accidentally pushed the bridge over, and
found the water very wet. The road to Over was under two feet of water so they
provided a horse and cart to take people across. Hundreds of acres are still under
water and they have had so many floods lately that farmers are at their wits’ end.

c.29 # FLOOD

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 1st March

1979

More than 120 people packed Haverhill Town Hall to overwhelmingly support a
proposal to get a cinema for the town. The room was packed solid with people, at
least half of them teenagers and many others left because they could not squeeze
inside. Since the Playhouse cinema was taken over by a bingo hall seven years ago
people have had to pay £1.30 for a return bus ticket to Cambridge and take a chance
of catching it home if they watched until the end of the film. A cinema would help
solve their problems with young people.

c.76.9

1954

County councillors voted to proceed with their original plan for the new Shire Hall
courts building. They also need to get their Town Planning people transferred from
Hobson Street and must have further accommodation for the County Library, which is
one of the finest – if not the finest – in England. Suggestions for putting another
floor on the present Shire Hall would never be satisfactory. Services would be
upset for about two years, the whole of the heating apparatus would have to be
altered and it would cost nearly £70,000. There were plans for the basement to be
used as offices but to put clerks down there would be like putting them in prison.

c.34.6

1929

A disastrous fire occurred the Hall, Little Shelford in the early hours of Sunday
morning with the result that the building was almost completely gutted. It was
discovered by Mmme Carne, the governess who with the butler and the maid were
immediately above the fire. Captain and Mrs Gordon Dill removed their children to
safety in the Lodge. While waiting for the fire brigade, which was delayed owing to
the terribly thick fog, the occupants attempted to subdue the outbreak, then
confined to the pantry, with buckets of water. But the heat melted a lead pipe and
the cistern emptied so water had to be fetched from a cottage about 30 yards away.
The building is 71 years old being erected in the grounds of the old Hall which was
pulled down in 1858.

c.61.7

1904

All Cambridge united in welcoming King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra to open the
new University buildings known as the Sedgwick Museum, the Squire Law Library,
Botanical and Medical Schools in Downing Street. Cambridge University has never
stagnated but kept pace with the demands of the time. Newer universities have their
place in the general scheme of things but they can never supplant our ancient
university of Cambridge, nor her twin sister on the banks of the Isis. With the
increasing spread of education their prosperity increases.

c.02 # c.36.9

Tuesday 2nd March

1979

Controversy surrounds plans to pull down seven large Victorian houses in Bateman
Street and build a modern language school. The properties are ‘bed-sit’ houses used
for student accommodation and too large to be used as family homes; they are not
particularly distinguished houses and do not justify sentimentality. Residents have
petitioned against the scheme but it is now more a barracks than a street, only 11
of the present residents lived there three years ago. The new school would give
better facilities to foreign students planning to become bank clerks or hotel
receptionists who pay fees of £19 a week.

c.36.75

1954

By the death of Miss Kate Borne another pioneer of Papworth has passed into
history. She worked with Dr Varrier-Jones when he was Tuberculosis Officer for
Cambridge and when he conceived the idea of establishing a Settlement in a house in
the village of Bourn she became its first Matron. When in 1918 it moved to Papworth
Hall she arranged for the care of 20 patients who made the journey by horse
transport. It was her suggestion that a Hospital was built for nurses who had
broken down with tuberculosis in the course of their work and Borne House for
nursing staff grown old in the Settlement.

1929

An Ely watchmaker told the Bankruptcy Court that he had started in an upstairs room
in the High Street in 1926, moved to a shop in Broad Street and then Fore Hill. He
obtained the post of tenor lay clerk at Ely Cathedral at £110 a year and for twelve
months collected the water rate, being paid £1 a week for it. He played in a band
occasionally and got five shillings an evening but denied his problems had been
caused by drinking and loose living.

1904

The Royal visit to Cambridge was followed by an undergraduate ‘rag’ which caused
wanton destruction of public and private property even though a large body of
police, included mounted men, were on duty. One policeman guarding the proctors was
singled out for a little ‘baiting’. As they surged around he took out his baton
which was immediately snatched from his hand. Now unprotected the affair seemed
likely to develop into a serious disturbance but mounted policemen began to harry
the crowd who fled before the horsemen. Many youths annoyed the riders by throwing
crackers near their horses. One animal was so startled by an explosion that it
threw its rider and careered across Parker’s Piece.

c.02 # c.36.9

Wednesday 3rd March

1979

Soon nearly 5,000 people will spend a few hours in Cambridge drinking, eating and
dancing their way through £100,000 at the May Balls. This year the tickets are
going to be more expensive than ever. A double ticket with dinner at Magdalene will
set you back £50.40, which is enough to burn a sizeable hole in any student grant.
Queen’s college, which charges 38 guineas with dinner, has become well known for
its ‘extras’ – cabarets, helter skelters, fireworks and such like. It is a far cry
from the 1948 ball – the first on record at the college - when the tickets were a
mere seven guineas and entertainment was limited to Mr Geoffrey Howarth’s band
which played ‘sweet and strict tempo’ music with no attempt at ‘hot swing’.

c.36.9

1954

Haddenham windmill, a landmark in the fens, may become a dangerous structure if it

is not repaired soon. Experts estimate it would cost about £2,000 to put it into a
sound condition. It was last in use about nine years ago and is still owned by the
miller who worked it then. It is scheduled as an historic building but the Ministry
will not make a grant to aid its preservation. In a letter to The Times, Mr P.G.
Norman, secretary of the Friends of Haddenham, says it was built in 1803, its
machinery and sails are intact and it is not beyond repair

WINDMILL

1929

Cambridge Photographic Club’s exhibition contains a number of local views. Mr

Bellamy has eight nice photographs, the best of which is ‘Farm near Barton’. Mr
Watson’s ‘Suffolk Road’ is a fine rich picture, as is also his ‘Pampisford’. In the
novice’s section Miss Dorothy Bellamy has a well-arranged print ‘Street in
Chesterford’ and Mr Boutflower shows a charming ‘Over Ferry’

c.65.5

1904

Owing to the enormous demands for the C.D.N. souvenir of the Royal Visit to
Cambridge the whole edition was sold out less than an hour after publication. Now
in response to enormous requests a second edition is ready. It contains a full
report of the proceedings together with special articles on previous royal visits,
King Edward’s undergraduate days etc. It has photographs of the new Downing Street
buildings reproduced from the series of pictures specially taken by J. Palmer
Clarke for presentation to the King. Printed on superior paper and being of a
convenient size it is an admirable memento of the auspicious and historic occasion.
c.04

Thursday 4th March

1979

Saffron Walden planners have proposed a series of controversial suggestions to

tackle problems facing the centre of the town which is under attack from heavy
traffic and commercial pressures for redevelopment. They include banning traffic
from the market and King Street, a new one-way route, ripping out offending ugly
buildings and wide-spread tree planting. Garages are offensive in the historic
heart and must go, they say. Some of the ideas, like putting a bell tower on top of
Hepworths to strengthen the King Street sky-line, take some swallowing. The report
will provoke lively and heated debate

1954

The blitzed Sturton Street Methodist Church – the only religious building in
Cambridge put ‘out of action’ by the Luftwaffe in 1941 – is to rise again. The
Master of Downing College laid the foundation stone of a new church to be built on
the site. They had begun to fear it would never be rebuilt - the War Damage
Commission had given them a very raw deal, only offering £800. But had perused
their resolution in the face of frustration to which all were accustomed in dealing
with Government Departments and got £1,170

c.83.06

1929

Cambridge Justices approved a hotel of a ‘superior improved modern type’ on land

adjoining no.203 Milton Road. It would meet the needs of people as a social club
and be a house for travellers as well, with a dining and tea room.. The luncheon
room should be open all day and the manager be a man of catering experience who
should be encouraged to sell non-alcoholic refreshments and food. Opposition was
forthcoming from the Master of Magdalene College who have a sports ground nearby
and from various temperance, religious and welfare bodies.

c.27.4

1904

Last year the Cambridge Trader’s Association collected £2,681 of debts on behalf of
its members at a cost of five per cent (the costs and fees having been recovered
from the debtors). Most were small in amount but others were complicated such as
would require the services of a solicitor and counsel at much higher costs. They
had to bring 712 actions in the High Court, which shows the difficult character of
the debts. They also made a great number of enquiries regarding the status of
Cambridge people, most of which were satisfactory, while 250 enquiries as to the
status of customers against whom proceedings were contemplated have been made of
correspondents in other towns and abroad.

c.32.8

Friday 5th March

1979
Frankie Vaughan, one of Britain’s most durable superstars, has fans of all ages but
most of those attending his concert in Cambridge Sports Hall seemed to be middle-
aged. His costume was immaculate, with white dress shirt and trousers and a black
jacket with white trimmings and his top hat and cane were a cue for him to sing his
signature tune ‘Give Me The Moonlight …’ His middle-aged admirers swooned with
delight and squealed with joy whenever he stabbed out one of those characteristic
high kicks. He made it a special occasion for Mr & Mrs Philip Staines of Ely, who
were celebrating their 24th wedding anniversary, by dedicating a song to them

c.69

1954

An application by the owner of the Mountford Café, Horseheath for a licence to

serve beer with meals was refused. He had to deal with about 50 meals even in a
slack period, and there was a big demand for alcoholic refreshment. The other
public houses could not accommodate the number of coaches he did. But the manager
of Benskin’s Brewery said they proposed to make extensive alterations to the Red
Lion public house and they served snacks; children could either stay in the coaches
or play on the lawn. The landlord of the Green Hill Inn, Linton said he could
accommodate six coaches and there was a restaurant opposite which could take four.

c.27.4

1929

Caxton Guardians heard that an elderly brother and sister from Great Eversden had
been admitted to the Workhouse because they could not get anyone to look after
them. Their house had been searched and £34 10s. in notes, £7 in gold and £42.13.6
in silver, making a total of £84.3.6. was discovered. It is understood the woman
also has £199 in the Post Office Savings Bank

c.32.9

1904

On any evening youths of between fourteen and eighteen roam about the principal
streets of Cambridge for hours. This is not an altogether innocent activity. For
them the streets are not thoroughfares but a rendezvous from whence ‘the
temptations of our streets’ proceeds. It is difficult to attract these young people
to the churches; for some years a small institute with two rooms and a pantry has
been open in St Andrew’s Street for reading, games, boxing, Indian club exercises.
It is managed by a committee of University men and its success has now emboldened
them to hold lantern services in the Victoria Assembly Rooms.

c.37.9

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 8th March

1979

The closure of the Allied Bakeries’ plant in Sleaford Street, Cambridge with the
loss of 200 jobs means the end of bread making on a site which was poised to
celebrate its golden anniversary. For a long time it was owned by the Cambridge
Wholesale Society until it sold its interest in the sixties to F.W. French. In 1971
it became part of Spillers but last April they sold off this side of their business
and Allied British Foods moved in. They gave a guarantee of a year’s employment
provided there were no disruptions but when the bakers went on strike the plant
stood idle for many weeks. It has operated at a loss from then on.

c.27

1954
The plight of 200 isolated deaf and dumb people was revealed by Bishop Gordon
Walsh. About half live in Cambridge and they were the lucky ones: they had club
facilities at Hope Hall where they could relax after work, but the remainder lived
in country villages. They hardly ever met other deaf people and were cut off from
the outside world.

c.21.1

1929

Reed Farm, a large house on the Babraham Hall Estate was completely destroyed by
fire; all that remains are the walls and dislodged masonry which is strewn about
the cellars and the ground floor so that the scene resembles the result of an
earthquake rather than a fire. The house was occupied by Captain and Mrs Fraser
with a staff of two maids. He had time to get into a suit of clothes and some
gumboots but his wife and the maids were not so fortunate. She had time to dress
downstairs sometime later but the maids had to dress in the garden

c.61.7

1904

The drinking fountain for cattle and animals erected opposite Haverhill council
schools in Station Road was formally handed over to the town by the secretary of
the Metropolitan Drinking Fountain and Cattle Trough Association on behalf of the
donor, Lady Malcolm of Poltalloch. The structure, composed of the finest grey
Aberdeen granite, is in the form of a circular basin standing on eight columns, the
base forming a channel for the use of small animals. It is fitted with an automatic
water apparatus which ensures a constant supply. At the conclusion of the ceremony
a bystander filled a glass with water from the fountain and drank the donor’s
health, but as snow was falling, the example he set was not followed.

Tuesday 9th March

1979

The Mayor of Cambridge, Coun Alec Molt, faced 300 chanting cyclists outside the
Guildhall and signed their petition demanding better provision for cyclists. The
demonstration began with a lecture on road safety and bike maintenance by the
police, then led by a Panda car, they took at 15-minute tour of the city centre
streets before returning to Peas Hill to hear councillors’ views. Their priorities
include cycle lanes on the Huntingdon & Madingley Roads and a contra-flow cycle
lane in Downing Street.

c.26.485

1954
Mr L.W. Hallen started his motor cycle trading 21 years ago in a low-roomed malting
shed opposite Union Lane corner and shortly afterwards acquired premises in
Hawthorn Way. During the war Government contracts for repair work on RAF vehicles
helped the firm to expand and premises which were a dance hall were converted to
the use of the business. They have now opened a spacious new showroom on the site
of former almshouses that jutted on to Union Lane. Their empire now occupies an
extensive stretch of Chesterton High Street.

c.26.485

1929

Sir – I have watched the progress of H.M.S. Dredger at present operating off the
footbridge, Chesterton Road, Cambridge. Some months ago they dredged one half of
the lower river in the vicinity of Jesus Locks and deposited the sludge on the
Chesterton side in the river; later the dredged the river above the locks and
deposited the sludge in the actual place previously dredged - ‘One of the financing
party’

c.29.4

1904

Cambridge Women’s Temperance Association heard of the misery of a bright country

girl desirous of obtaining employment in a South London gin palace. She had to be
at the bar at nine in the morning and there stand in unutterable weariness until
two o’clock the next morning, with two hours off for all her meals and rest. She
could never get out into the fresh air except on her alternate Sundays. Inside the
atmosphere was foul and the country flower sickened, the roses faded from her
cheek; she needed a pick-me-up so much that she took the beer which was allowed
three times a day and a glass of spirits at night. At last she became an inebriate
and swelled the ranks of out-cast women.

c.37.7

Wednesday 10th March

1979

People needing to call the police automatically telephone their village station but
it is economically impossible to staff them round the clock. Now police have
installed answer-phones and are putting phones outside rural stations so personal
callers can contact the divisional headquarters. They are also to spend nearly
£400,000 on new equipment including 24 VHF hand-held radios at £400 each which
increase transmission distances from the present half-mile radius to around four
miles – useful for anything from standard radar speed checks to CIP special
operations

c.34.7

1954

The Mayor said that 1,000 council houses had been built in Cambridge in less than
two years but the waiting list continued to grow so that today we have more people
waiting for houses than we had at the start; the list stands at over 5,000. How
many will get council houses within the next two years is hard to say; the land in
the Council’s possession is sufficient only to build another 1,800 houses and
flats. Replying to criticism of ‘housing foreigners’ he said that applicants of
foreign nationality had been given council houses but they were naturalised and had
a right to be considered in their turn.
It is imperative that the fullest use be made of the accommodation at their
disposal

c.23

1929

A Linton butcher was fined for exposing for sale imported meat, each piece of which
was not labelled with the word ‘Imported’ and the words disclosing the country of
origin. An Inspector of Weights and Measures said he visited the shop and saw a
considerable number of pieces of meal, some of which he suspected were imported.
There was no label on any meat in the shop. The butcher produced a label marked
‘Imported’ from a drawer and said he had not put it on since the war. He did not
attempt to deceive customers since the pieces of imported meat were not mixed up
with English meat

1904

Professor Sims Woodhead, speaking on behalf of Cambridge Passive Resisters, told

magistrates that they were refusing to pay their education rate as they believed
the money would be applied to the teaching of religious doctrines with which as
Protestants they absolutely disagreed. Supporters in the grand jury gallery and in
the space usually occupied by the public applauded.

c.33.9

Thursday 11th March

1979

Ten years ago one household telephone and a bleeper machine represented the worldly
goods of the Cambridge Medical Answering Service which handled about 80 calls a
months. Today it has hardware worth around £100,000 and it takes eight nurses
working in shifts to process the 120,000 calls a year. The service started because
one family doctor at Bottisham, Neville Silverston, found that if he and his wife
wanted to go out anywhere they needed not only a baby sitter but also a phone-
sitter. “It was always the GP’s wife who handled the calls when he was out. Now we
have this wonderful harem who do this extraordinary job. We get messages more
quickly and the patients get attention more quickly”, he said.

c.21.1

1954

Properties in Corn Exchange Street may be demolished to increase parking space in

the Lion Yard. It could then accommodate another 60 cars. This would bring in an
increased revenue of about £1,360 per annum, but be offset by a £1,286 loss on
rental from the demolished premises. Councillors were considering the early
provision of a multi-deck park but until the Minister had made a decision on the
development plan it would be impossible even to proceed with sketch plans. Sites
have also been cleared in the Park Street area, but in view of the extremely poor
access they decided to take no action to form a car park in that area.
c.49.62

1929

The Cambridge MP was told that the Post Office have been working on a combined
handset for telephone purposes. The old handsets where the mouthpiece and the
earpiece were combined – you picked it up and put it to your ears and you could
hear and speak and were employing only one hand – was useless under modern
telephonic conditions. Although still in use they are being replaced because you
cannot get the same quality of speech as you can with the ordinary pedestal
telephones. The American Telephone and Telegraph Company have provided the very
latest type of apparatus and this has been improved on.

c.27.7

1904

Magistrates refused to licence the Walnut Tree off-beerhouse, Impington. The house
had four rooms, was thatched and in an extremely damp condition with fungus on the
inside wall of the sitting room. It was not fit for habitation and even if it were
properly made watertight it would not be of the annual value of £8 as required by
law. A four-roomed cottage at Impington would be rented at no more than £4 a year
as a private house. But no accommodation was required inside the house for
drinking purposes. Negotiations had been in progress for the sale of the house,
which is why no repairs had been done.

c.27.4

Friday 12th March

1979

A new double-decker bus station in the centre of Cambridge is being proposed by

County traffic experts. Buses would wait only long enough to set down and take up
passengers and long-distance buses would run from elsewhere in the city. This one
of several options to sort out the chaos of Drummer Street. Others include
expanding on to Christ’s Pieces, re-siting it to the Kite area or adjacent to the
railway station. For years the bus station has been the subject of intensive
criticism because of its lack of facilities and poor conditions. Now councillors
have made it a priority.

c.26.46

1954

A labourer who figured in a daring escape from the cells beneath Cambridge Shire
Hall courts two years ago was arrested in London. He made his escape with two other
men sentenced for housebreaking. In their getaway from the Shire Hall Courts –
since demolished – the men forced up a grating weighing about one-and-a-half
hundredweight in a nine-feet high ceiling near the detention room in which they had
been placed pending their removal to Bedford Prison. Through this they climbed into
the yard outside. The grating was not cemented down but its great weight and height
above the floor made the lifting of it a considerable feat.

c.34.7
1929

The dislike of railings in Cambridge seems to be growing. Some time ago the heavy
railings in front of King’s were taken down and now the University Press railings
have been removed. This will make more room for pedestrians and traffic coming
round the Silver Street corner. One wonders what is to become of them. Are they to
be scrapped as ‘old iron’ or are there other people who would be glad to secure
what we are anxious to discard.

c.62

1904

St John’s College students carried out a mock funeral for an undergraduate who was
ejected from the New Theatre on three occasions in one week for having infringed
the rules adopted to preserve order. The college authorities decided he should be
‘sent down’ and his friends showed organised a process of 13 cabs which filed along
the streets at funeral pace to the railway station. A halt was made outside the New
Theatre to allow the travellers to indicate their disapproval of the management.
During the whole journey shouts, singing and the blowing of horns was continuous.

c.36.9 # c.39

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 15th March

1979

At 8.30 am every morning of the week 70 drug users queue up in Cambridge to collect
some of the most dangerous drugs available – heroin and methadone. The drugs are
waiting for them in little white packets. They cart them off to the nearest public
lavatory or to their flats or squats and shoot it up their arms. Not all go into
their own arms. Preying on the registered addicts is a wider circle of drug users
who will pay high prices for the stuff. They wait in the streets around the
chemists. They call on the junkies at home. They drink in the same pubs, live in
the same houses. Gradually they too become hooked.

DRUG

1954

Sir – although I call myself a robemaker I do not personally make gowns. This is
done as it has been for hundreds of years by operatives working in their own homes
and many of them can trace back a couple of centuries. One of the best known names
in Cambridge is that of Maltby, a member of which family is still active and busy
in that occupation. Any unfamiliar details which we require we can generally obtain
from this source with its accumulated knowledge – A.R. Almond, Sidney Street,
Cambridge.

c.67

1929

Newmarket councillors having considered the position of the temporary island refuge
near the Clock Tower agreed it should be permanently fixed and be lighted by a
double lantern to be left alight all night. Only two of the four corner lamps
should be lighted in future. They also agreed to let the supper room at the
Memorial Hall to the County Council for two hours each Friday to be used for
issuing books from the county library

1904

Ratting is a form of amusement which dates back to the dim ages. Usually this
practice is carried on in out of the way places but in Cambridge ratting parties
are to be seen on Midsummer Common on Sundays. The undergraduate takes a great
pride in the sporting qualities of his “dawg’s” pedigree, half-bred or mongrel, and
certain townees feed this pride by collecting a supply of rats for the alleged
sporting dogs to worry. With stout wire cages slung on their backs the dealers
await the arrival of undergraduates and then offer rats at a “bob apiece”. Rat
after rat is released from the cage, given half a dozen yards start, and then the
dogs “course” it to its death. The slaughter over, the dead rats are piled on the
common to fester and rot.

c.39 # c.19

Tuesday 16th March

1979

In theory the Cambridge Drugs Clinic has a lot of control over its registered drug
addicts. In practice it often has very little. Once registered with the clinic in
Lensfield Road the only obligation on the junkie is that he turns up for regular
consultation with one of the doctors. That amounts to a few minutes once a
fortnight. The clinic’s work is hampered by lack of money: it comes within the
general budget of the psychiatric clinic it shares a building with. It serves a
vast area, from Felixstowe to Bedford; apart from its head there are just three
part-time doctors and twos social workers, which according to DHSS recommendations
is only enough for 50 patients.

DRUG

1954

The proposed arrangements for an alternative television programme will not give a
satisfactory signal in the Cambridge area.. Multi channel convertors now being
incorporated in some makes of set may be outdated and unserviceable when the
Cambridge viewer wants to use them. Our advice is to have the convertor fitted when
– and only when – Cambridge comes within the range of the proposed new stations. To
buy a set with a convertor at present means paying 5-7 guineas more for what is, to
the Cambridge viewer, a useless article. – H.W. Peak, Radio & Television Dept, King
Street – advert.

c.27.82

1929

The University Proctors have considered regulations for students who desire to use
aircraft during term time. Undergraduates flying their own or civilian aircraft may
lead to annoyance from low flying and accidents. A Light Aeroplane Club has already
been formed which gives facilities for flying within a few miles of the University.
Now no student may fly as pilot or passenger during term time without written
permission from his parents and tutor. Those offending will be liable to be
punished by suspension, rustication, expulsion or otherwise.
c.36.9 # c.26.1

1904

A meeting of Cambridge Omnibus Company shareholders was convened to receive the

Liquidator’s accounts. It had been impossible to sell the business as a going
concern. The livestock and machinery were sold by auction for £768 but there was
still a considerable deficiency. Not a single shareholder attended the meeting and
the Board of Trade will be contacted to sanction the destruction of the company’s
books and accounts.

c.26.46

Wednesday 17th March

1979

At the university’s new music school in West Road you will hear a sound possibly
unique in the history of music making. It is an orchestra of string instruments all
made by one violinmaker and her apprentices. She is Juliet Barker, founder of the
‘Cambridge School’ of violin making and her apprentices are the doctors, vicars,
housewives and students who have attended her evening classes at the Cambridge Tech
since 1960. Between them they have turned out some 50 violins, 35 violas, 12 cellos
and a violone. A violin takes the average student three years to make and when
finished fetches around £750.

c.69

1954

Eye-witness accounts of the Ferry Boat ghost at Holywell state that ‘some contact’
was made with the lady in white, named Juliet Tewslie. More than 400 people went
down to the inn and hundreds were turned away. There were infra-red cameras in the
bar, tape recorders to take down any noise and thermometers to check any sudden
drop in temperature. After the hullabaloo of the sightseers had died down the
Psychic Research Society’s team got down to serious work. They used an upturned
glass on a smooth table which had letters of the alphabet on it. In answer to the
question ‘Is anyone there?’ the glass spelled out ‘Juliet’. Asked when she had died
she replied ‘515 years ago’. Thus it seems that the local legend that she died in
1050 was wrong.

GHOST # c.39

1929

Newmarket police court heard that the head lad to Mr Boyd-Rochfort was in charge of
a string of 21 horses that wanted to cross the road. As they were crossing he heard
a car coming from Mildenhall. He put up his hand and shouted but the driver kept on
coming and did not slow down. He took his car off the road and went through the
string of horses which became alarmed. The driver said he thought there were two
strings of horses, had seen a gap and accelerated to get out of the way as quickly
as he could. He was a careful driver and assisted the police on every possible
occasion. But it was a serious thing to cut through a string of racehorses and he
was fined £3.

1904

Cambridge Property for sale: Cyprus Road – freehold terrace, sure to improve, £475.
Huntingdon Road – pair of villas, £650. Ross Street – freehold terrace of five
well-built houses, £1,025 the five. Searle Street – freehold terrace of four
houses, £600 the four. Sedgwick Street – a terrace of five freeholds, rare
investment - £1,100 the five. Sturton Street – freehold bakehouse, shop, house and
stabling - £350. Suez Road – three newly-erected houses, £510 the three. - advert

c.06

Thursday 18th March

1979

The 600-plus parking meters in the centre of Cambridge may be scrapped as one of
the options for helping to sort out traffic chaos. But if they continue the city
council is backing a 67 per cent increase in all meter charges because they are
facing a £12,000 loss due to increased pay for the traffic wardens. Councillors are
also considering residents’ parking schemes to meet mounting demand for this
facility. They may also provide the city’s first cycle lane along the Huntingdon
Road from Girton College to Murkett’s Corner.

c.49.62

1954

The bells of St Mary’s will soon ring out again due to the famous peal of 12 bells
at Gt St Mary’s Church, Cambridge, being re-erected after a two-year absence. A new
steel frame has replaced the 200-year-old wooden frame which was eaten up and
diseased by woodworm. The Coronation was the first that has not been hailed by the
early 18th-century peal; they are rung for all national events and used to be rung
for new and old masters of Cambridge colleges. There is a 13th bell in the tower;
during the First World War it was used as a fire alarm at the First Eastern General
Hospital

c.69 : bells

1929

Bennett Ward, farm labourer of Toft said he went to fetch three cows from the field
to be milked. He looked up and down the road, opened the gate and two crossed. The
third was in the middle of the road when a motor car came along and hit her on the
hindquarters, knocking her into the ditch. She weighed about half a ton and was
full of milk. The two front lamps and the radiator of the car were damaged and
there was a very deep skid mark which tore the road up. The farmer claimed £26 for
depreciation of value to the cow, the driver counter-claimed £18 for damage to his
car.

1904

Big Fire at ‘Belmont’. We do not think the meaning of this heading will be very
clear to you: we have only put it there to attract your attention. What we really
want to do is to let you know about the ‘Royal Belmont’ bicycles, tricycles,
tradesmen’s carrier tricycles and trucks built to order on the premises. Belmont
Cycle and Motor Works, King Street and Belmont Place, Cambridge - advert

c.26.485

Friday 19th March

1979

Girton could become the place for an experiment in rubbish collection – the first
of its kind in the country. The idea for a trial run of a new system comes from a
German firm with plans to open up the British market. So far only South Cambs
District Council has shown any interest in the service which means plastic bins on
wheels for householders and special lorries. Meanwhile they are to order three
million plastic rubbish sacks after hearing that the cost may double by next year

c.29.8

1954

Closing Young Street nursery in Cambridge would be disastrous for the children, and
mothers unable to go out to work would have to go on National Assistance, city
councillors were told. But running costs were 9s.6d. a day for each child and there
was a private day nursery in St Matthew’s parish room which would costs mothers
12s.6d. a week. Working mothers could put a child there and still reap a handsome
profit from their week’s work. Coun Mrs Henn said she had spent some time at the
nursery and referred to people she labelled ‘Communists and those with foreign
accents’. “If ratepayers have to pay to provide trained staff to look after
toddlers in perfect health we are suffering from a flight into unreality”, she
said.

CHILDREN

1929

A Cambridge undergraduate was fined for an assault on a taxicab driver who

attempted to push him off the running-board of a stationary cab. It took place
after a bump supper when he was in a very excited condition. Robert Osborne said he
went to the ADC Theatre and left his cab on the rank on Jesus Lane. The undergrad
and others came along the road and turned the starting handle of the taxis. He
jumped on his running-board and would not get off, so he pushed him off. The lad
then hit him several times.

c.26.48

1904

Newmarket is being well catered for in the way of pictorial postcards. A delightful
set of six views in colour has been issued by Mr Ernest Parr, stationer. Having
seen them one can well understand the enormous success with which they have been
received. The cards are selling at the rate of 250 a day. The series includes views
of St Mary’s church, horses returning from a morning gallop, the royal entrance to
the Jockey-Club grounds and the High Street on market day

c.65.5 # POSTCARD

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 22nd March

1979

Cambridge councillors may scrap their plans for building a camping and touring
caravan site at Impington. Because there is so much commercial competition they are
being recommended to establish a small camp nearer the city centre for campers
arriving without their own transport and carrying their packs on their backs, some
of whom currently camp on the commons or along the Backs. Such a site need not be
widely publicised but if known to the police, park custodians and the tourist
office it would prevent possible nuisance or annoyance elsewhere

1954

Mr John Gambling of Milton Road Cambridge who has died at the age of 82 was the
oldest active magician in the British Isles. A member of the Inner Magic Circle
since its earliest days he first became interested in 1881 when he acted as
assistant to ‘Signor Bosco’ and later performed on land, sea, in the air and down a
coal mine. During the First World War entertained nearly every evening at the First
Eastern General Hospital. After retirement from his post of Borough Road Surveyor
he lived a life of adventure. He made many trips to Morocco and was the only white
magician known to have performed in a harem. The Moors learned to recognise his
pointed moustache and would gather round him clamouring for an on-the-spot show.

# MAGIC # c.39 # c.76

1929

A case of considerable interest to people buying or selling goods on the hire-

purchase system was heard at Cambridge court. Messrs Miller & Son sued the former
musical director of the Tivoli Cinema, Chesterton Road over an H.M.V. gramophone
and records. The agreement said that the machine was to be kept at a house in
Chesterton Road but he had moved it to the nearby Spring Hotel without being
granted permission. When he moved to the West Kensington Super-Cinema, London, the
firm had seized the machine.

c.76.9

1904

Newmarket councillors heard a great many complaints had been made with regard to
cabs loitering in the High Street and the police had difficulty regulating the
traffic. Owing to the removal of the railway station a good many of the cab ranks
were no longer used and the cabmen had nowhere to take their cabs. There were
several charabancs and brakes in the town better than those which came from outside
but they had never been able to ply for hire. They should reduce the number of
hackney carriage licences and not grant them to anybody outside twenty-mile radius.
One said that after the races a whole turnout would be sold for £5 [FIVE POUNDS],
with the driver’s great coat thrown in.

Tuesday 23rd March

1979

The old court house at Bottisham, which until recently housed the county’s unit for
disruptive schoolchildren, will soon be up for sale. ‘Whitebeams’ was used as an
out-of-school centre for children needing special supervision but the centre has
now moved to Romsey. Now the County Council has been granted permission for change
of use for it to be lived in again.

1954

The problem of overcrowding in the female wards at Fulbourn Hospital was described
to the Management Committee. Mr Stubbs said: “There have been only 80 beds
installed since the turn of the century. Patients are so crammed together in one
ward that they have to go outside to change and then go back to bed. It is a matter
of a few inches between one bed and another. We have people in here and really we
have not enough room for them. They say we have to have them. We shall arrive at a
point where we shall have to put them in passages.”

c.21.5

1929

A member of the Cambridge Watch Committee was seen chalking the number on the front
of his motor car in Market Street. His front number plate had recently been
repainted and, forgetting it was not in its usual place, he went for a 40-mile
trip. Next day he was stopped by an observant policeman who was adamant that he
could not go on. “What shall I do”, asked the motorist. “Go into Heffer’s and get a
pennyworth of chalk” said the policeman, which suggestion was at once acted upon.

c.26.48

1904

Goods seized from the Cambridge Passive Resisters were put up for auction; of the
64 lots all but three were bought in by the owners but three pairs of new boots the
property of Mr E. Haynes were knocked down for 14s. 6d. (amount due 9s.), three new
albums belonging to Mr H.S. Driver were sold for 16s. (amount due 10s.) and four
dozen boxes of pills which were seized from Mr Sturton were obtained for £1 – the
retail value of the patent medicine would be considerably over £2. After the
rowdyism of previous sales this was a deadly dull affair and most of those who
assembled were too lethargic even to bid to say nothing of attacking the auctioneer
or cracking a joke.

c.33.9

Wednesday 24th March

1979

It will be at least five years before the Central Electricity Generating Board
makes up its mind on whether to build a new power station at Denver. Engineers have
pointed out that any scheme which tunnelled water to the site from the coast could
cost nearly twice the £45 million at present allowed for the project. Anglian Water
Authority is worried about whether it will have enough water to meet the board’s
needs; using salt water could produce technical problems. The Denver site is
suitable either for an oil, coal-fired or even a nuclear station, but is not being
considered for the advanced reactor type. It is not likely to be started until the
completion of Sizewell in Suffolk

c.24.6

1954

Mr A. Rutherford Almond, head of the old-established tailoring and robe-making firm

was awarded an honorary M.A. degree by Cambridge University. The Orator said: “We
attach great importance to the correct and traditional academic dress and the
Proctors are watching with eagle eye for any breach in sartorial regulations.
There remains a great many uncertainties about the different varieties of academic
vestments but Mr Almond had a deeper knowledge than anyone else and was always
ready to put it at the disposal of the University”
c.67 # c.36.9

1929

There was no man who stood higher in the esteem of his fellows than John Chivers
and the news of his death was received with widespread regret. The Free Churches
had in him a good friend and, always a stalwart Liberal, he rendered yeoman service
to the party. As the name of Cadbury is to Bournville so that of Chivers is to
Histon. He developed the business that his father built up with the active and
personal support of his three sons and today the fame of the ‘Orchard Factory’ has
spread far and wide.

1904

The disgraceful state of certain roads at Cherry Hinton has become a standing
grievance with the residents. But now it would appear that the roads are at last to
be repaired and local grumblers will have to fall back for a subject of abuse upon
the ever-changing weather. It is to be hoped the work will be pushed through with
all possible despatch. Another winter with the roads in their present condition
would be intolerable.

c.49.62

Thursday 25th March

1979

Sir Harry Godwin, the University’s Emeritus Professor of Botany who has spent his
entire academic career in Cambridge, attended a special dedication of the new
Godwin Laboratory on the New Museums Site. It is the base of the Department of
Quartenary Research which he established in the 1940s, where experts in many fields
are helping to build up a picture of the world’s history. The information allows
them to model climatic changes which help predict long-term modern weather trends.

c.36.9

1954

Papworth Everard will not get a warden to guide children to the village school.
Traffic was reasonably heavy & is faster than it need be but there is a speed limit
on the road which can be enforced. It is also intermittent; you can wait ten
minutes without anything passing through at all. Every village wanted a warden and
many, such as Willingham, had more need of one. They should be encouraged to
provide their own voluntary wardens.

1929

Whilst shaving the other morning I caught sight for the first time of one of the
brand new motor dust waggons and called other members of the household to see it.
“Freighters” is the correct word for them and they have the reputation for being
dustless loaders and more hygienic generally. There are four openings each side
with sliding covers so that everything is closed in & when the men are on the way
back to the destructor with their load there is none of that unsightly mass of
paper and rubbish above the loading line with which we have been familiar in years
gone by. Altogether a great improvement.

c.29.8
1904

Two Saffron Walden labourers were summonsed for being on land in search of game. PC
Field said he was on duty near the Horseshoes, Wicken when he noticed one man’s
pocket was bulky and on searching found a rabbit on him and catapults on both
defendants, together with stones. The rabbit was warm and their boots covered with
mud. The men said they were going to Walden fair and picked the rabbit up on the
road. They were both fined.

Friday 26th March

1979

Cambridge comes out poorly in the new ‘Good Food Guide’; two entries are dropped
leaving the city with just one restaurant, the ‘unusually suave’ Peking Chinese
Restaurant in Burleigh Street, and one pub, the Fort St George. Out go the
Strudel’s Restaurant in Fitzroy Street and the Golden Palace Chinese restaurant in
Ely together with the Eagle in Bene’t Street and the Plough at Coton. Old
favourites which retain their rating include the Old Fire Engine House at Ely, the
Old Bridge Hotel Huntingdon and the Hotel de la Poste, Swavesey. The Pink Geranium
at Melbourn gets the humbler ‘Pass’ rating.

1954
At Oakington RAF station one of the runways is being re-surfaced with a one-inch
topping of asphalt – good for 10 or 15 years even with the harsh treatment it will
get with the jet engines of the Vampire T-11s which are due when the flying school
re-opens at Easter. Taxpayers will be glad to hear that little is being wasted on
the job – even the old runway surfacing is being used for the working course on new
landing strips at other airfields

c.26.1

1929

The new edict with regard to flying by undergraduates is well timed. Conington
aerodrome is used by the Aeroplane Club and now comes news of a private aerodrome
for Cambridge. Marshalls, automobile engineers of Jesus Lane are opening it
shortly. It is on the main Newmarket Road less than two miles from Cambridge. There
is a railway station 200 yards away and a 20-minute bus service connection. One
hangar has already been erected and the whole site is about to be put down to
grass. Marshalls are agents for the de Haviland Aircraft Company and already have
their own demonstration machine ready at the aerodrome.

c.26.1

1904

Cambridge Licensed Victuallers’ Protection Association was started 14 years ago

with 15 members and now they have 260. People must have drink in the shape of
alcohol and they must have persons who would supply it. It was not always their
fault if they got into trouble because it was impossible to see what every
individual did who came into their house. But they failed to see why the persons
who sat on the Bench and were known to be teetotallers should exercise their
jurisdiction in dealing with licensed houses. There were people connected with the
Trade quite as competent to act as magistrates who would not be so biased in favour
of the Trade as the teetotallers were against it.
c.27.4

Monday 29th March

1979

Milford Docks Air Services Ltd has been operating an Executive aircraft charter
service at Cambridge airport since 1977 offering rapid transport to their
executives throughout the UK and Europe to the expanding industrial and
technological business community locally. While charter flying will never be
‘cheap’, in many cases if four or five travel together, it is actually cheaper than
scheduled airline fares and it is becoming increasingly common for secretaries to
be included in a group at no extra cost, resulting in a far more successful
business conference.

c.26.1

1954

It is 50 years ago since Alderman Mrs C.D. Rackham became the first woman member of
the Cambridge Board of Guardians. Then applications for outdoor relief appeared in
person, stood in front of the Chairman and answered questions directed at them from
all quarters. If their replies were regarded as satisfactory an allowance of 2s.6d.
or 2s. and a load of bread was granted. The scale for widows was 1s.6d. a week for
each child after the first, the widow being expected to maintain herself and one
child.

c.32.9

1929

Cambridge council is to introduce automatic traffic signals at the crossroads at

Northampton Street and Chesterton Lane for a three-month trial. The present cost of
a policeman on point duty was about £400 a year and the signals, with purchase,
would be about £200 with about £25 a year maintenance and repairs. But Coun Stubbs
described it as “robot policemen”; a friend in Liverpool had had to wait ten
minutes with a clear road before he could get a move on. He did not see how traffic
could be controlled as well as by human means: “I can see myself telling it to mind
its own business” (Laughter). It was at the wrong place, being at the bottom of a
steep hill; it would be better at the East Road – Mill Road crossing.

c.26.48

1904

There is still a doubt in scientific circles as to whether last year’s epidemic in

Cambridge was really small-pox or a similar disease with another name: ‘Craw-craw’.
A lecturer on Patho-Histology at Birmingham University has sampled some blood films
and is convinced that this the disease which has been puzzling the authorities at
Cambridge, Smethwick, Kidderminster and Burton-on-Trent amongst other places.

c.21.1

Tuesday 30th March

1979
Opposition to a bid by Pye of Cambridge to sell about six acres of land near their
Cathodeon Crystals factory at Linton for 50 to 60 houses came to a head at a
planning inquiry. The site is lying derelict and there was no prospect of it being
developed as a factory extension because of difficulties in getting the right kind
of skilled labour. It is surrounded by housing with schools and shopping
conveniently near. A high proportion of their local employees came from the village
but a lot had to be bussed in. Planners originally thought Pye might make the land
available for council housing but their decision to redevelop has upset the Parish
Council

1954

At the moment many Soham people work outside of the parish and the Parish Council
are investigating the possibility of introducing light industries. It had been
called ‘a land of milk and honey’ and it was a very prosperous agricultural area,
even in times of depression, but every morning traffic left conveying people to
work outside. The Downfields area was thickly populated and every one of them were
exported elsewhere. For years the parish had up to 300 unemployed in the winter and
it was time the Planners be asked to consider provision of light industry.

1929

An inquiry was held into proposals by the Ouse Drainage Board to carry out work at
Welmore Lake Sluice. The Ministry had agreed to fund one half of the cost of
£30,000 but local ratepayers objected saying it was unfair to expect them to pay so
large a sum when the work would benefit many others. The sluice had been
constructed about 1825 and benefited the Middle Level as it prevented the tide
coming up against their barrier banks. Methwold and Feltwell Drainage Board
protested against payment for a sluice which would confer not one penny benefit on
them. They were being asked to ‘hold the baby’ and it was rather too lusty an
infant for them to hold. If the cost were spread more fairly it would only amount
to an 8d rate and no one would feel the pinch.

c.29.4 # c.29

1904

Messrs J. Carter Jonas sold by auction an important estate in King Street,

Cambridge comprising the fully-licensed public house, the Millers Arms and
adjoining dwelling house and outbuildings. The pub contains beer cellars and
washhouse in the basement, a large room fitted with a kitchen range, bar parlour
etc now in the occupation of Messrs Bailey & Tebbutt. The business premises at the
rear include a paint shop, workshop and stables whilst the house has four bedrooms.
When Sussex Street is widened King Street must become an important business
thoroughfare. It was acquired by Mr Nockolds at £3,700

c.44.6 # c.27.4

Wednesday 31st March

1979

Two-thirds of the people who applied to Cambridge City Council for help stating
they were homeless made false claims. Intensive investigations show that only 72
out of 222 qualified as homeless. Of them only 49 were the direct responsibility of
the council and they were housed. The rest were mainly young single people – some
with children. One thousand new council houses are needed by 1982 and 2,000 by 1988
and councillors decided that council house tenants can now only buy the house they
have lived in after two years, instead of after 12 months as previously.

c.23

1954

Haverhill National Farmers’ Union protested against the proposal to build a new
town there. If they were forced to take in some of London’s overspill population it
would have a disastrous effect on local agriculture. There was a reasonable supply
of agricultural work in the district but the introduction of industry would mean
that it would dwindle. There were more suitable places to house the overspill
population: the ‘scrublands’ of Thetford and Mildenhall and at Harlow New Town
there had been difficulty in keeping the Londoners from going back to London

1929

Some interesting observations on windmills were made by Mr H.C. Hughes to the

Cambridge Photographic Club. His talk was illustrated by large number of slides.
The oldest drawing of a mill in existence was in Longstanton church, cut in the
clunch of the porch. Doubtless as the miller was always a bad man his boy took
after him and having been turned out of church had spent the time drawing his
father’s mill on the church. He spoke of the mill at Haverhill with its rotary
vanes, the six-sailed mill at Wisbech and the mills at Stretham and Fulbourn, both
of which were still working. The latter should be preserved if any should, so
beautiful was it on the long rolling slopes behind the Roman road.

c.65.5

1904

The report of an enquiry into the repair of the fen droves at Swaffham Prior heard
that the alleged public highway measured a little over four miles and formed a
thoroughfare from near the village railway station to a ferry over the Cam in a
hamlet called Swaffham Prior Fen, which has a post office, small chapel and
population of 100 persons. The roads were set out as private byways by the
Enclosure Award and had not been formally adopted as public highways so the
question was whether between 1814 & 1835 there was uninterrupted use by the public.
They took evidence from various witnesses and the RDC claimed they were repairable
by drainage commissioners under an Act of 1853. They concluded there was no
evidence to show the roads should be repaired by the inhabitants at large and
recommended no action be taken by the County Council.

c.44.65

Thursday 1st April

1979

The owner of a marina at Upware has complained to the Price Commission about new
registration charges being introduced by the Anglian Water Authority. They have
increased by more than 300 per cent for owners of larger boats and make boating
once again a sport for the rich. Medium length boats will cost £24 instead of £10
every year. The charges have forced a St Neots pensioner to put his cruiser up for
sale after more than 50 years. “I have worked out that I will have to pay 400 per
cent more in boat registration charges. All I want is to be able to sit on it and
do a bit of fishing”, he said.
1954

Bolton Brothers’ steam traction engine was the first steam-driven road vehicle to
make its appearance in Cambridge. It was in 1902 that the enterprising Boltons
decided that more power was required in furniture removals than could reasonably be
expected even from two fine horses and that on a long run the traction engine was
then peerless. Bolton’s business of removal contractors and furniture depository
has now been acquired by the Cambridge Co-operative Society and will be carried on
with the same care and enterprise that has typified its activities for more than 50
years.

c.26.48

1929

Coun Rowley spoke of the serious pollution of Histon Brook. There was a stream of
black sewage matter six inches deep. From this pollution he had lost two horses and
another which was about to die and he had been put to very heavy expenditure for
water. If water was taken from a pump at Cottenham fed by the brook it ate through
the tubes in one hour. They should apply for an injunction against Messrs Chivers
resulting in the stopping of the factory. But there were a large number of
cottages, a large laundry and a butcher all discharging water into the brook crude,
and not filtered as at Chivers. The pollution came from up the brook at Girton as
well as lower down

c.29.8

1904

It is certain that the farm motor has got a footing and much more will be heard of
it before long. If prices could only be reduced somewhat a number of farmers,
disgusted with the short time made by horse teams and appreciative of the advantage
of being able with a fast and powerful tractor to choose favourable weather for
tackling their arable, would be disposed to give motor ploughing a fair trial.
Motor farming is likely to result in a more thorough cultivator of the land and not
be an extension of those deplorable land-scratching and acres-grasping methods of
which many pitiful examples may be seen on clay soils. Simplification of the
mechanism is to be expected and it remains to be seen whether the proposed
substitution of steam for petrol is wholly advantageous.

c.22

Friday 2nd April

1979

The heads of two Cambridge schools are picking up the pieces after a week of
violence in which pupils were assaulted and rival gangs tore through playgrounds.
Mr Oliver Gaggs head of the Manor and Mr Tony Newall head of Chesterton School feel
that schools are being asked to assume and day-and-night responsibility of their
pupils which they cannot achieve. Mr Newall said; “Raids between schools have
always taken place. In a way it’s nice to know that they identify with the school
and there is an honour which they want to protect. It’s a pity that the methods are
so misguided.”

c.36.5

1954
Newmarket council has granted the Jockey Club £736, part of the cost of improving
two tied cottages. But some councillors disagreed: they were a vastly wealthy body
and yet were asking for assistance whereas there were many people in the town who
had improved property and met their own costs. They were tied cottages and part of
the business of the Jockey Club so they would not help the housing problem. “Are we
going to subsidise a body which can well afford to pay for its own repairs –
repairs which should have been done long before?” But Canon Scott denied the Jockey
Club had been “frightfully cunning” about the matter

1929

Twenty years ago there were four weekly newspapers published in Cambridge in
addition to the C.D.N. Then the Cambridgeshire Weekly News acquired the Cambridge
Express and the joint production enlarged from eight to twelve pages. Much has
happened since, including the incorporation of the Cambridge Independent Press and
the introduction of a picture page. There has been a marked increase in paragraphs
of village news; in 1909 three columns were needed, now they claim the whole of the
last page of the paper and frequently overflow on to another. Members of the
Women’s Institutes may be interested to learn that last year we published about 600
reports of their meetings.

c.04

1904

The last words of the St John’s college undergraduate who was sent down from
Cambridge the other week were “I’ll see you at the Empire”. Faithful to his promise
he turned up on Saturday night but was in such a drunken condition that he was
promptly ejected. Even then he refused to go away and had to be forcibly moved by a
policeman who conveyed him to the nearest lock-up. In court he denied he was drunk
but only excited; he was fined 5s. Two other undergraduates who had been removed
from the Alhambra pleaded guilty to being drunk and were also fined.

c.39

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

NOTE 1929 STORIES NOT FULLY TYPED UP

Monday 5th April

1979

Lovers of good homecooked food can satisfy their appetite at a Cambridge museum,
health food bar, coffee house or riverside pub according to the new Egon Ronay
‘Just a Bite’ guide. Accolades go to the Fitzwilliam Museum coffee room (home-made
quiche and salad, 70p), the Fort St George pub (cottage pie 73p), Martha’s Coffee
House (steak and kidney pie and veg 85p) and Nettles (dish of the day 70p)

1954

The ‘birth’ of the Parish of Reach was marked by a ceremony in the schoolroom when
the Chairman of the County Council formally handed over to the new Chairman of the
Parish Council (Mr A. Housden) a copy of the Statutory Order and a minute book. The
people of Reach felt they had lost their identity by being swallowed up by Burwell
and Swaffham and recognised that a small unit of local government, if it adopted a
method of ‘give and take’, could be a benefit to everyone concerned. There were no
worse quarrels than those which took place over neighbouring walls and it was the
spirit of forgiving neighbours which was so necessary to make life enduring in
Reach.

c.35.6

1929

Percival Rodrigo, a canvasser … obtaining photograph … from Gertrude Thompson …

said he was setting up a branch in Fitzroy Street and canvassing photos for
advertisements – would enlarge it .. represented the Westminster Studios. Albert
Chandler, photographer printed leaflets warning about canvassers - CDN 22.3.29

c.65.5

1904

Sir – I must protest against the sanitary inspector’s report on the pump on
Barrington green. All the people living near it and having horses use it and have
done so since the year dot. The water is not any worse now than it was then. If
the inspector were to visit some of the cottages and make the owners keep them in a
thoroughly sanitary condition, instead of trying to upset old customs, it would be
better for the village. But there is the old story, ‘I must not upset my masters’,
who are generally the owners – A Villager

c.24.2

Tuesday 6th April

1979

There isn’t much left of Swavesey station. The station house and offices are all
gone, leaving just a few broken seats and a creeper-covered shelter to accommodate
the traveller. The railway line which goes through to St Ives was shut to
passengers on 3rd October 1970. Now the only trains to use it carry freight and
aggregates from Fen Drayton, and oranges to Chivers’ factory at Histon. But on
Saturday a ‘special’ was chartered from British Rail by the Cambridge Rail Action
Group which wants to see passenger services restored. Every single ticket was sold
within five days and nobody complained when the train was a little late arriving
and Swavesey Brownies were busy brewing up coffee for any day-trippers

c.26.1

1954

The eagerly-awaited telephone chess match took placed between Oxford and Cambridge
City Chess Clubs. The Mayor recalled there had been a previous telephone match in
1933 which had been won by Cambridge. Many spectators came in the course of the
evening and there was an atmosphere of mounting excitement. The final score was in
Cambridge’s favour by five to three. The mach was much enjoyed by all taking part
and Oxford immediately challenged them to a return next year

c.38 : chess

1929

Four cottages, barn and outhouses gutted at Willingham; big blaze at Teversham;
week-end blazes at Lt Shelford and Kneesworth – CDN 1.4.1929
1904

Messrs Chivers propose to erect a number of model cottages for the accommodation of
their workpeople. At present many of the employees live in adjoining villages and
are compelled to walk to the factory each day, while others are conveyed to and
from Cambridge by train. The scheme has already started; not far from the village
chapel there are four cottages which occupy little more space than the ordinary
dreary erection in which the working man has to make his home. But brains as well
as bricks and mortar have been used in their construction. They are really
miniature villas with windows of the old-fashioned lattice type and are approached
through rustic gates. If the new houses are on the same scale many will cast
envious eyes at Histon and its happy inhabitants

Wednesday 7th April

1979

The centre of Cambridge is well off for parking space. There are 600 spaces on the
Lion Yard multi-decker, a slightly smaller number at Park Street and substantial
parking at New Square. Then there are more than 500 meters dotted around. But
during peak periods these are barely enough and queues build up at the park
entrances. Motorists complain it is not easy to reach the city centre since King’s
Parade was severely restricted to through traffic. At first shopkeepers feared
virtual bankruptcy but now even the most ‘anti’ tradesman is happy with the result
– an increase in trade.

c.49.62

1954

The days of ‘cost plus’ production of more food at any cost are over. In future we
must aim at higher quality and lower costs; this will be good business both for the
farmer and the nation and will widen the market for home-grown produce and make
agriculture less dependent on the Exchequer. The national achievement of a net
output of 60 per cent above pre-war was a major objective but at present prices the
market couldn’t take much more of our milk, eggs or pig meat. However the market
requires a lot more beef and some good quality mutton and lamb and we need to make
better use of our grass and forage crops as these will help cut the bill for
imported foodstuffs.

1929

Advertising Cambridge – Chamber of Commerce – pictorial posters issued, illustrated

guides; more conferences wanted – CDN 3.4.29

c.27.9

1904

There is a peculiarity common to all builders – their absurd predilection for

affixing ridiculous names to the small villas which abound in the suburbs of
Cambridge. I noticed three modest dwellings which flaunted the high-sounding titles
of ‘The Laurels’, ‘The Beeches’ and ‘The Chestnuts’. I imagined that somewhere in
the vicinity would be found stately avenues of trees from which these names,
suggesting of the quiet delights of the country, had been derived. But vainly did I
seek the trim and shady lawns, the sweeping avenues, the flowery banks and moss-
grown terraces that used to be the merest accessories of houses to which such
dignified titles are customarily appended. Not only that, there was not a laurel, a
beech, not a chestnut tree in sight.

c.48

Thursday 8th April

1979

A flash of lightning caused thousands of pounds worth of damage at Pidley; as it

hit a tree the blast shattered dozens of windows in nine cottages and blew in a
cottage door. A young man working near a dike was thrown into the water by the
shock and children coming home from school had a narrow escape as the flash struck
only yards from the bus shelter where their coach stopped seconds later. The Mad
Cat public house was among the buildings damaged when most of the front windows
were smashed.

1954

Ely Rural Council proposed a sixpenny increase on pre-war and a shilling increase
in post-war council houses. Tenants of old style houses would be only to pleased to
pay extra when their earth closets had been replaced by modern conveniences. Some
haven’t even got a drain and it is a disgrace to the council. Houses being built at
present were too elaborate and were being let too cheaply. At Brick Lane, Mepal,
there were ten houses at 19s a week; twelve others, with lavatories up and down and
hot and cold water, were still let at the same rent. Pre-war houses were built at a
cost of £300-£500 and originally let at 6s to 7s a week. Now they were up to 15s
and no extra amenities had been provided. Post-war houses cost perhaps £2,000 and
were being let at about £1.

1929

‘Talkies for Cambridge’ film in October – Central Cinema manager; new super-cinema
on Market Hill next year – CDN 4.4.29

c.76.9

1904

A new era in the chequered existence of Cambridge’s second place of entertainment,

the Empire in Auckland Road, has opened. Hitherto its reputation for providing
entertainment has not been entirely faultless but the new programme revealed a
pleasant change and there was a packed audience. Performers included an
impersonator of characters in the works of Charles Dickens, the Danby-Gordon Trio
who displayed a tragic interlude entitled ‘The Penalty’ and Miss Gladys Fontaine, a
singer with a cultivated contralto voice. Two comedians amused with ‘patter’ and
songs of ‘nonsense rhymes’ and music was supplied by Miss Zetti Handel’s Ladies
Orchestra.

c.76

Friday 9th April

1979

Thousands of ‘golden oldie’ singles were destroyed in a fire that swept through the
‘Remember Those Oldies’ record shop in Cambridge – claimed to be the only one of
its kind in East Anglia. In the four years since it opened a massive stock of
records from the 1950s and 1960s had been built up and because they are specialist
items there is little chance of replacing them

1954

The Headmaster of Chesterton Secondary Modern School, Mr G.W. Manfield, has left to
take up a teachers’ training post in Malaya. He had been appointed in 1935 when the
school was just being built and gradually its reputation had grown. Chesterton was
known as a school of scholars and boys can obtain a very good situation. It is
doubtful whether any other school is sending as many boys to training colleges to
become teachers themselves.

1929

Guardians decide against boarding out children – CDN 4.4.29

c.32.9

1904

On Good Friday Cambridge residents now expect their repose during the early hours
of the morning to be broken by the appropriately mournful cries of the purveyors of
the stodgy hot cross bun. As early as half-past four in the centre of the town the
‘Two-a-penny, four-for-tuppence’, pitched for the most part in a minor key,
commences and continues without intermission until the disturbed sleeper in sheer
desperation gives up attempted repose and descends to breakfast, at which meal the
Good Friday bun is usually of more ornament than use. The custom of taking a supply
of the buns shows little decline & manufacturers say there is still a good demand.
As far as the weather was concerned, after the snowstorm, hail-storms and rain of
Thursday, it was a pleasant surprise, but amusements were restricted by the high
wind. Easter is the commencement of the season for pleasure patrons of the wheel,
but few cared to face the grind of many miles in the teeth of such strong currents
and the roads were but little

c.39

Looking Back by Mike Petty

1929 STORIES NOT FULLY TYPED

Monday 12th April

1979

Cambridge United hope to double the size of their main grandstand, adding another
1,800 seats to the Abbey Stadium. Subject to planning permission work on the shell
of the stand, extending the existing grandstand the length of the pitch, will start
this summer. But whether they put in the seats will depend on the demand for season
tickets. United have switched their attention to the main stand following the
failure to obtain a Sports Council grant to extend the Hibbin stand into a sports
complex

c.38 : football
1954

Every seat in Great St Mary’s church, Cambridge, was occupied when the Bishop of
Ely rededicated the recently-reconditioned bells. A procession of bellringers,
representatives of the bellfounders, the clergy, the Archdeacon of Ely and
churchwardens went with the Bishop to the bell tower during the service. The bells
were handed in to the custody of the Vicar to be used only with his authority. Then
for the first time in two years the clamouring of 12 bells was heard over
Cambridge.

c.69 : bells

1929

Southery school present Mikado – CDN 8.4.29

1904

Sir – I would like to know who is responsible for the very cold atmosphere in the
Cambridge Free Library Reading Room. A few weeks ago I tried to enjoy an hour’s
reading, but the cold and draughts were so severe that, although a hearty vigorous
man accustomed to outdoor work in all weathers, I caught a severe cold. There are
three stoves in the room but I have never seen more than one alight and a radiator
which is usually almost cold. In the recent cold snaps the room has been under 45
degrees all day long. There is only a little cylinder boiler about the size of a
beer cask inserted in an ordinary fireplace behind the counter of the lending
department. Now they have installed a ventilating fan which works at intervals
which not only causes a distinct chill but the noise and vibration are maddening,
resembling the sound of a motor car running round the room – ‘Ouvrier’

c.77.4

Tuesday 13th April

1979

Cambridge City Council’s scheme of building houses for sale to its tenants or
people on the housing list has proved a great success. More than 150 couples
applied to buy the 24 two and three-bedroomed houses which the council are
completing at Walpole Road and selling for £10 - £12,000. Nearly 300 people have
asked to buy the 300 houses being built by a private company in a joint scheme next
to the council’s King’s Hedges estate. These range from one-bedroom flats at around
£10,000 to three-bedroomed detached houses at £25,000. During the past two years
the council has sold nearly 300 of its houses to tenants.

c.23

1954

Since the inauguration of the C.D.N. Snooker Cup for the amateur championship of
Cambridgeshire in 1946, only three names have previously been inscribed on this
coveted trophy. Now that of L.T. Ambrose has joined the names of P.G.T. Hughes,
A.L. Batterbee and R.E. Williams. In the final he beat W. Philpott through superior
tactical play. Philpott played the bolder type of snooker and at times got in some
delightful pots. He was always prepared to go for ‘near impossible’ shots and twice
got two glorious pinks only to see the white disappearing also. But Ambrose relied
on the ‘safety first’ motto, which in the end paid dividends.
c.38 : snooker
1929

The Sporting News new paper for Cambridge – c.04 – CDN 10.4.29

c.04

1904

A memorial tablet commemorating the men of the Isle of Ely who lost their lives
during the war in South Africa, 1899-1902, was unveiled at Ely Cathedral. As the
hour for the service drew near it was realised that all road led to the Cathedral
and both inhabitants and visitors were making their way to the building. The bugle
sounded and soon the military – easily distinguished by their spic and span scarlet
uniforms – dotted the main streets as they proceeded to the rendezvous for ‘falling
in’. Presently the sounds of martial music fell upon one’s ears, telling that the
Militia band, heading a large number of men, had started forth. It was a most
picturesque scene, not soon to be forgotten, as the old flags of the Ely Armed
Association, 1798, were carried into the cathedral.

c.45.3

Wednesday 14th April

1979

The human skeleton crisis which hit Cambridge medical students is now over and
there are enough bones to go around. Most of the bones are imported from India and
an export clamp-down led to shortages and rising prices. Students found the cost of
half a skeleton prohibitive at £70. An Australian firm offered to supply skeletons
but these turned out to be more expensive. Now the University Medical Society has
bought up a consignment of 40 ‘old’ skeletons from Bristol University. They came on
the market because the Bristol school was replacing its bones with new ones and
they have been able to supply ‘second hand’ skeletons to students at around £50
each.

1954

The inaugural meeting of the Cambridge Flower Decoration Club was held in the
Guildhall with an audience of several hundred people – almost entirely of women.
The Mayor said the city council was fully alive to the value of floral decorations.
On one roundabout alone as many as 4,000 plants were used. There was criticism of
the money spent on floral decorations but residents and visitors appreciated the
added beauty they gave the city. The new Club could bring Cambridge extra fame by
becoming one of the centres of floral art. No fewer than 143 people have now
joined.

c.18

1929

Death of ‘Dad’ Pointer, Waterbeach Salvation Army – CDN 10.4.29

1904

A few days before Christmas a young man arrived in Bristol absolutely without means
but soon learned from a firm of solicitors that he was the son of the late Rev E.A.
Stephens of Cambridge and entitled to a huge fortune. But the gentleman must have
lived here many years ago for clergymen who have seen long service do not remember
him, his name does not appear in any University calendar and even members of the
police force who have proverbial long memories do not recall him. The story recalls
a hoax played on a drayman who lived in Cambridge. He was informed that an uncle
had died and left him a fortune so he threw up his position and went to Portsmouth
to conclude the formalities, only to learn that the fabulous fortune was a myth and
he had been cruelly hoaxed.

c.34.6

Thursday 15th April

1979

Cambridge squatters protested as demolition men moved into James Street and started
breaking up roofs and floors in some houses. This follows a court decision granting
the council possession of seven houses where squatters claimed they had a licence
to stay. The team of contractors arrived early in the morning and started on an
empty house with pick axes; gas, water and electricity engineers also got to work.
Police stood by as the confused squatters gathered in the street outside.
Protestors say the council should never have acquired the houses in the first
place. They were never used, allowed to stand empty for 20 years and became
derelict. The squatters have actually tried to save them from demolition. Now
Cambridge is to lose a Victorian street, probably unique in the country, with its
small modest houses and shops.

c.23

1954

The old Seven Holes Sluice at Earith which dates from 1824 will soon be demolished.
Work has started on the new sluice bridge which will consist of three gates 22 feet
wide with six feet piers separating them. The bridge, which will take about nine
months to complete, will be 33 feet wide including roadway and sidewalks.

c.29.4

1929

Shire Hall courts debate – CDN 13.4.29

c.34.7

1904

An inquiry was held into the promotion of the Meldreth and Melbourn District Gas
and Water Company Bill; it aroused a deal of opposition and at times the exchanges
were of a very lively character. The present Gasworks at Melbourn were not up-to-
date and with growing demand a new company had been formed who would erect new
gasworks in Meldreth; there had been no objection from residents. Water supplies
were obtained from the river and wells and a good supply would enhance the value of
property. There would be a pumping station near Melbourn Heath Farm and a 200,000-
gallon reservoir. The County Council supported the scheme but the Parish and
District Councils objected
c.24.2

Friday 16th April

1979

A fresh attempt is to be made to demolish the 17th century family home of

Cambridgeshire M.P. Mr Francis Pym, at Hazells Hall, Sandy. The house dates from
about 1640 but was extensively altered during the reign of George II and passed
into the ownership of the Pym family in the 18th century. It was used by the RAF
during the war to house to train secret agents flown out from nearby Tempsford
Airfield and was a hospital annex until 1968. But it has been unoccupied and
vandalised during the last 11 years and would cost at least £330,000 to restore.
The plan is to knock down the main hall leaving the walls just above ground level,
retaining the outline of the building for local historical record. The coach wing
is to be converted into two cottages.

c.61.7

1954

A new experiment in children’s entertainment, the Roy Rogers Riders Club, is being
launched at the Rex Cinema, Cambridge. It will be among the first British cinemas
to use the scheme which provides first-rate Saturday morning entertainment for the
under 16s. The charge for enrolment and a badge is 1s and admission to the shows is
6d per week. The clubs are under the direct guidance of Roy Rogers himself who
formulated the club rules; its objects are to ensure that young cinemagoers see
only the most wholesome entertainment and meetings begin with a special film of Roy
Rogers saying the “cowboy’s prayer.

c.76.9

1929

Isle school medical officer – children aged 5 admitted – CDN 17.4.29

1904

A few years ago such a group such as the Cambridge and Chesterton Horse Club would
have been out of the question but over the last six years it had grown beyond all
expectations and now has a membership of 185. All who possess horses should join:
during the past year they paid £235 to 16 members who lost horses by death. The
condition of horses in Cambridge and the treatment meted out to them is much better
than previously for if an owner neglected his animal he is prohibited from
receiving the benefits of the club

c.19

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

1929 STORIES NOT FULLY TRANSCRIBED

Monday 19th April

1979

House building in South Cambridgeshire has already overtaken the forecasts. County
planners are worried that present restrictions might give way under the increasing
demand for new housing from commuters, especially with the plans to electrify the
London rail link and the completion of the latest section of the M11. But although
the number of applications for planning permission has increased sharply this is
matched by a corresponding increase in the refusal rate. The biggest contribution
to the housing total has been from people taking up old planning permissions before
they expire

1954

More than 13,000 spectators flocked to Elsworth to create an all time record for a
scramble meeting held by the Cambridge Matchless Motor Cycle Club. A programme
which included Moto-Cross, international and works team riders together with the
new course at Lawn Farm allowed riders to return particularly fast times. Local
international Brian Stonebridge provided the fastest lap while Phil Nex recorded a
six-lap record. Eric Luck of the Hunts Falcon Club was one of the local men who put
up a brave performance against the internationals.

c.38 : scrambling

1929

Car plunges down bank at Six Mile Bottom, passengers through roof – CDN 18.4.29

1904

Wicken Fen has been desolated by a disastrous fire, the worst of many which have
played havoc with this, the only piece of primeval fen left in England. It was
caused in the same way as the others: a wax vesta, thrown away after use, did not
die out and the sedge was set ablaze. Carried by the wind the fire did its deadly
work. Between 30 and 40 villagers were quickly at work; after hours of hard toil
they succeeded in beating out the fire with branches of trees and the conflagration
was stopped at Running Water. Two gentlemen visitors who had travelled a
considerable distance to search for beetles were the cause of the disaster and have
offered to recompense those on whom the loss will fall but the damage to the animal
life cannot be replaced.

c.44.2 # c.34.75

Tuesday 20th April

1979

Sir David Renton retired from Parliament after nearly 34 years representing the
interests of his constituents in Huntingdonshire, having been returned 10 times
since 1945. It is as a backbencher that he feels he has done the most good rather
than his three stints as a Junior Minister, first at the Ministry of Fuel and
Power, then at the Home Office under R.A. Butler. He sees his greatest achievement
as the Renton Report, which suggested ways of improving the drafting of bills. He
is also proud of pioneering work on birth control and his last question in the
House related to the provision of family planning on the National Health Service.
Now he wants too concentrate on his role as a Treasurer of Lincoln’s Inn and his
work for handicapped children.

1954

During the early years of the war when the Government was encouraging people to
spend their holidays at home the Cambridge Entertainments Committee organised
August Bank Holiday athletic sports meeting, swimming sports, baby shows and other
attractions. They obtained permission to open the Corn Exchange as a canteen for
troops stationed in the area; later alterations were made, music and games provided
and it became a social centre for thousands of Servicemen and women, a very useful
contribution in the dark days of war. It could still, in the hands of an
imaginative architect, become the much-needed concert hall Cambridge needed

c.69

1929

Cleaners claim against Festival Theatre for altering curtains CDN 19.4.29

c.76.9

1904

Upware seems to be a favourite hunting place for the fisherman’s pest, the otter.
Several have been killed there of recent years and another female, weighing about
17lbs and about six years old has been added to the list. Its capture and
subsequent execution occasioned an exciting scene at Swaffham sluice. Mistress
Otter was resting quietly with only her head visible above the water and it was
thought to be a large frog floating on the water. However she gave a leap, dived
down and reappeared with a pike in her mouth. Three men commenced a hunt, cornered
it and administered the coup de grace.

Wednesday 21st April

1979

Great St Mary’s Church in Cambridge renewed a 450-year Royal association when an

intricately embroidered gold cloth was transferred from the Fitzwilliam Museum. It
was used in commemoration services for Henry VII and had been given five years
before his death to ensure requiems were to be said in his memory so he would be
held in good favour when the Day of Judgement came. The last important appearance
of the cloth was during a visit by Elizabeth I when it was carried over her head as
a canopy. After 1790 it went missing for nearly 150 years before it was
rediscovered in 1929. It took eight strong men to lift the huge display catafalque
on to a removal lorry and trundle it down the street to its original home.

1954

The residents of Heath Lodge Estate, Newmarket’s first post-war housing estate, may
be ‘lost of the church’, the Rector feels. When he visits houses on the estate he
is often kept standing on the doorstep – something he had never come across before.
But the Houldsworth Valley estate was different, people were friends and the
children attended Sunday School enough times to qualify for a stamp album and a
book in which to do their work. It was essential he have a curate who could, by
working continuously on the estate, win it back for Christ in 18 months.
1929

Visiting R101 at Cardington – CDN 20.4.29

c.26.1

1904

Sir - I would like to know if the Americans are going to capture the whole of the
trade in small cheap cars. We have long had several of their cheap cars on the
market and now appears another with a horizontal engine, where vibration is greatly
reduced, being at right angles to the spring resistance of the coach work. Some may
say these are but runabouts – but they run, which many other small voiturettes do
no for long. They run a man to the station, run his wife out shopping in the
afternoon and take both out fifty miles on a Sunday. Besides this, they only cost
from £150 to £200 – Major Matson

c.26.48

Thursday 22nd April

1979

A new building jutting into the Cambridge skyline from the top of Castle Hill has
filled in the city’s largest hole. The site was to have been used for the De Vere
Hotel but after several planning applications were rejected the firm pulled out and
the hole was left. Then came plans for a complex of shops, a petrol station, a
bank, offices and maisonettes but each scheme failed. The site is now being
developed as a 42,000 sq ft office building though the project has not gone without
a hitch. The first Cambridge builders folded and the developers had to find another
firm in a hurry. All they have to do now is to let the place -–and there are many
who say that Cambridge is overstocked with offices already.

c.49.6

1954

The Automobile Association has announced a scheme to direct and control A.A.
Patrols and night break-down vehicles by means of a greatly extended radio network.
It involves erecting transmitters at various places, including Cambridge from which
a wide area of the Eastern Counties will be directed. In addition many more Patrols
attending important meetings will be equipped with ‘walkie-talkie’ apparatus to
keep them constantly in touch with Mobile Headquarters. The immense advantages of a
direct radio link in dealing with abnormal traffic and car parking arrangements
have been proved again and again.

c.26.48

1929

Cambridge undergraduate eloped with heiress CDN 22.4.29

c.36.9 # WOMEN

1904

Cambridge Paving Committee received a memorial from a number of residents in the

Hobson Street area calling attention to the present state of the carriage-way. They
directed the Surveyor to report the cost of paving the street with wood blocks,
together with the portion of St Andrew’s Street from the tramway terminus. But
Hobson Street was used by very few people; traffic was not half what it used to be
and as the trams were likely to be electrified it would be better to wait. However
a great amount of traffic came from Newmarket Road to the centre of town down King
Street; very often there was a great block of traffic in Sussex Street because it
was dangerous to go down Hobson Street where the pebbles were very uneven. Traffic
went on dropping, and business went on dropping, simply because the street was so
badly paved.

c.44.6

Friday 23rd April

1979

The bells at Clavering parish church will not come crashing down after all. The six
bronze bells, dating from 1830 could have been silenced forever because the four
beams that supported them were rotten and decayed. They could have fallen at any
time since last summer and have been silent while repair work was carried out. Now
the parochial church council has decided that a £6,000 restoration should be
started while fund-raising efforts are staged. Mr Allan Simpson, one of the team of
eight bell ringers at the 14th century church said that if work had not started the
bells would have been condemned.

1954

Cambridge Coun Mrs Phyllis Clarke told a meeting: “One hears a lot about the big
housing rate, but it is only 8d in the pound -–the same rate as the Library
service. Do we hear of book borrowers being jeered at because they take home
subsidised books, or properly owners complain about the cost of a subsidised
policeman guarding his property”. The housing programme should be expanded but she
condemned the “little rabbit hutches masquerading as houses on the Arbury Road
Estate”

1929

Policeman assaulted trying to arrest drunk – CDN 22.4.29

1904

Swaffham Bulbeck inhabitants were surprised to see a piece of land adjoining the
Malting railed in and found that workmen had received orders from the property
owners to fence a portion of the green. A public meeting was at once called to
protest against the encroachment of Poors’ Charity land. Much amusement was caused
when it was discovered that the fence so hurriedly erected had been just as quickly
taken down, leaving just a few stakes to mark the disputed territory. The land had
long been looked upon as parish property and although the Maltings had changed
hands on several occasions never before had there been a claim set up for that
portion of the village green next to the Swan.

c.32.3

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

1929 STORIES NOT TYPED UP

Monday 26th April

1979

The past two years have been a bad time for thatch fires in North West Essex, and
not all of them were arson. Now planners are worried at the fast rate at which
thatched roofs are being replaced and are warning that they may be on the way to
extinction. Owners face two heavy expenses: the cost of renewing thatch can cost
up to £3,000 and the annual insurance premiums can be eight times that charged for
a house with tiles or slates. In addition they fear for the safety of their
families because of the fire risk.

1954

Three Wicken almshouses in a good state of repair have been allowed to remain empty
because of the provisions of a Trust. One house has stood empty for 18 months and
the other two a year. They are available to widows or single women aged 60 or over
and are each endowed with an annual sum of £20; the occupants also receive 2s.6d.
But they must be regular communicants of the Church of England. The Vicar has done
his utmost to get the houses occupied and says if the Charity Commissioners would
omit the clause about communicants or allow a man and his wife to have them they
could be filled within a week.

c.32.9

1929

Fen Drayton’s tythes – CDN 21.4.29

1904

The Cambridge Medical Officer of Health reported that during the recent small-pox
epidemic 154 people had been infected of whom 15 had died. At the start the Small-
pox hospital consisted of two huts with an administrative block and a caravan for
the use of men employed. Subsequently an addition hut and two tents were provided
to give a total accommodation of 85 beds. There was also a tent for the nursing
staff, a discharge tent, a dining tent, a mortuary hut and an additional caravan
for the male staff.

c.21.1

Tuesday 27th April

1979

Behind the rather grim exterior of Haverhill with its rows of terraced houses and
overspill estate there’s a bright new shopping centre. The extra-large Sainsbury’s
in Jubilee Walk stocks everything from glasses to freezer food & means you can buy
all the groceries without the hassle of traffic jams and queues that are all too
common in Cambridge. And there are a number of other supermarkets so there’s lots
of opportunities to shop around for the best quality and price. Glasswell’s £1
million shopping centre which opened last September gives the town its main
furniture and carpet shop. During the week the town is fairly quiet – early closing
is on Wednesday – but there is free car parking. The bus journey from Cambridge
takes an hour and costs 65p for a single journey.

1954

County Councillors say that as the Girton-Earith Road across Oakington airfield is
now permanently closed, and the need for a by-pass has gone then the land at Girton
purchased for a by-pass should be sold. Owing to the expansion of Bassingbourn
aerodrome and building developments between Bassingbourn and Kneesworth, the route
for a future by-pass has now been transferred to the eastern side of Kneesworth

1929

Brampton church stalls – University museum asked to return them – CDN 24.4.29

1904

Three weeks ago Messrs W. King of Bridge Street, Cambridge announced that a
medallion had been secreted which would entitle the finder to one of their
bicycles. Three clues were published and large numbers of people have attempted
their solution. The winner was Mr C.T. Pask of Gwydir Street who read the third
clue in the Cambridgeshire Weekly News and found the medallion by measuring 17
revolutions of a bicycle wheel from one end of Hauxton Bridge in a straight line,
followed by one revolution to the right.

c.26.485

Wednesday 28th April

1979

A new row has divided the villagers of Haslingfield. After the path that went
nowhere, the pavilion which ‘cost too much’ and the rifle range which half the
village didn’t want, there’s now the muddy meadow controversy. The Parish Council
bought Well House Meadow in the centre of the village for £6,000 in 1976. The land,
which contains a recently –renovated 17th-century well house, was intended as an
additional play area but a large part has been fenced off and let as grazing land.
Villagers claim the ground has been churned up and is useless as a play area. Now
someone has erected barbed wire over the public entrance and the row has assumed
the proportions of village guerrilla warfare

1954

A new tower being built at Christ’s College, Hobson Street, Cambridge was slightly
damaged by fire. It is believed to have been caused by heat from a small fire used
for copper soldering which ignited the scaffolding and the base of the new tower.
The builders working on the tower could not get down. It was well alight and the
fire was beginning to spread into the college when the brigade arrived. A major
pump, pump escape and turntable ladder were used to extinguish the blaze and they
had it under control in eight minutes

c.44.5

1929

Prince Olaf of Norway visits Cambridge – CDN 25.4.29

c.02

1904

The inhabitants of Royston had a little excitement on Wednesday evening and now
have a joke good enough to last for some time. Someone noticed in the sky a
reflection of what appeared to be a big fire in the direction of Fowlmere. Quickly
the news spread and the firemen made all preparations and waited for the call. The
glare was so great that many people walked into Royston expecting to see a large
conflagration and a number of town residents journeyed to Fowlmere on bicycles and
traps only to find it was caused by the burning of a heap of rubbish on Mr Beldam
John’s Farm

Thursday 29th April

1979

The cutting of the first turf at Huntingdon’s Stukely Meadows industrial estate
heralds a major victory for supporters of commercial growth in the town. The first
stage of building will be 12 ‘mini factories’. Many established firms have been in
the town for a decade. At Specialised Mouldings the marketing manager said
“Huntingdon offers a pleasant semi-rural environment and is an attractive place for
employees and their families”. Many of them moved with the firm from South London
in 1967 and in 1969 the company doubled its factory space.”. One of the biggest
employers is the Silent Channel factory which provides jobs for about 400 people
working on products such as car window channels and window seals. It was
established in Huntingdon in 1936 and finds the location ideal, being close to
places like Dagenham.

1954

Three men were charged with entering offices at Cuckoo Pastures Experimental Farm
at Boxworth and stealing a safe, camera exposure meter and stop watch. P.c.
Lockwood said he was on motor cycle patrol when he stopped a car and three men ran
off. He immobilised the vehicle by deflating the tyres and phoned for assistance. A
taxi driver said he received instructions from a phone box to pick up a fare but he
was stopped by a police car and two officers got into the taxi. He continued until
he was flagged down by three men. The policemen jumped out and arrested them

1929

Man changed mind over purchase land Cherry Hinton – CDN 25.4.29

1904

The danger of wearing celluloid combs was revealed at an inquest. A young woman who
wore her hair in a semi-circular comb was reading before the kitchen fire when
suddenly her head became enveloped in flames. The heat of the fire had ignited the
ornament, a cheap French imitation of the tortoiseshell comb. The father produced a
portion of it and on the coroner applying a match there shot up a long tongue of
flame. The comb did not require fire to cause it to ignite – heat was sufficient.

Friday 30th April

The home of Henry ‘Jock’ Hall has always been easy to pick out by the sign above
the front door reading ‘University Chimney Sweep”. Now it has been left in not-so-
splendid isolation amongst the demolition rubble of what was once a row of terraced
houses in James Street, Cambridge. The innards of neighbouring houses hang from the
outside walls and the dust gets everywhere. Even a sweep and his wife, used to
dealing with sooty grime, cannot help noticing it. The rest of the houses were
occupied by squatters who were thrown out when the demolition workers moved in.

1954

A councillor opposed spending money on armour plate non-splinter glass at the

Cambridgeshire High School for Girls, saying there is far too much glass in far too
many places in Cambridge. The number of accidents caused by glass should not be
soft-pedalled. One child had severed an artery in its wrist, another had cut
arteries in thighs, legs and knees. However if they were to say that wherever glass
constituted a danger it should be replaced by very expensive non-splinter glass
they were going to involve themselves in totally unjustifiable expenditure. It
should be replaced by wood. But they would lay themselves open to a charge of
vandalism if they spoiled the architecture of a very fine building.

1929

Visit of famous eyesight specialist from America – CDN 5.4.29

1904

A man was sitting quietly in his office in Cambridge the other day when he heard a
buzzing noise and looking down he saw smoke and flame issuing from his coat tail
pocket. He tore the coat from his back and succeeded, with difficulty, in putting
out the flames. On investigation he found the fire had originated in a box of
‘safety’ matches. He admits he may have been sitting on the box but safety from
friction is one of the ‘safety’s’ strong points. The manufacturer says that the
head of a match may have come into contact with the side of the box but he feels it
ignited by the heat of his body and has banished them from his house, his office
and his person for ever

Looking Back by Mike Petty

1929 STORIES NOT TYPED FULLY

Monday 3rd May

1979

What is claimed to be the largest cycle shop in Cambridge, with a stock of

thousands of new and used machines has opened on the corner of East Road and
Norfolk Street. The new shop – ‘Thakes – the Cycle King’ – is the fourth in a
rapidly-growing string owned by Nick Thake who calls himself ‘the 27-year-old work
maniac’. His other shops are in the London suburban and Southend areas. It will
offer discounts of up to 50 per cent with a guarantee of rapid service and total
satisfaction and also specialise in finding parts for very old cycles or obscure
foreign makes.

c.26.485

1954
Three farmers from Swaffham Prior Fen, who have for five years been living and
trying to farm under the threat of Government acquisition of their land have been
reprieved. Altogether 588 acres were involved but the Minister of Agriculture has
decided only to acquire 312 acres at Hundred Acre Farm, Burwell Fen. The Rev Eric
Marsh, formerly Vicar of Over urged the Ministry to speed up such decisions: no man
was going to develop his land or improve it if he through it would be taken from
him. Mr Harold Sennitt, whose family has farmed in the district since 1927, had
been threatened with the loss of 39 of the 45 acres of root crops he farms, Leonard
Folkes five acres and Ernest Garner 90.

c.22

1929

New Dorothy café – CDN 27.4.1929

c.27.4

1904

Nonconformists launched their organised opposition to the Education Act at a

meeting in Victoria Road Congregational Chapel Cambridge, held instead of the usual
service. They could not give their money to pay for their children to be taught
doctrines they did not believe in. The State was a secular institution and should
look after secular affairs. Schools should be undenominational, paid teachers
should not give religious instruction – it should be given by clergymen - and
church people should appoint teachers without regard to denominational test or
beliefs.

c.33.9

Tuesday 4th May

1979

A modern five-bedroomed detached house at Whittlesford has become the regional

headquarters of the Moonies, the cult sect said to brainwash teenagers while
contributing to its leader’s £7 million fortune. Hundreds of homes have received
literature and many have had personal visits from members who claim they are a
Christian organisation. Neighbours say they hold late-night meetings at which
speeches by the Rev Myung Chung are played on tape recorders, complete with mass
applause and that they are woken early each morning by the sound of chanting and
clapping. The ‘Rev’ Sun Moon visited Cambridge last summer as part of a big
conversion drive that included flying massed Moonie brass bands into the city.

c.82

1954

Government Inspectors have turned down an application from Cambridge city council
to build a public convenience on the island at the junction of High Street and
Chapel Street, Chesterton. It is the site of the old village green and in its
centre stands a fine old ash tree encircled at its base by a seat much used in
summer evenings. The Council contended that only five houses overlooked the site
and they would improve the island with a cycloramic wall and flowers. But the
Preservation Society said it would destroy the pleasantest survival of Old
Chesterton and there were three alternative sites.
c.29.8

1929

National Skating Association jubilee – CDN 29.4.1929

c.38 : skating

c.83

Wednesday 5th May

1979

The 1,800 villagers of Duxford have lost their tiny branch surgery, despite a
petition calling for its retention. Now they have to go to Sawston. Doctors say
that the old days when the doctor was a comforter and father figure handing out
bottles of red medicine have passed and the higher standards of modern medicine
depend on tests and examinations which cannot be carried out at a branch surgery.
Other surgeries have closed recently in Barton and Barrington while a question mark
hangs over those at Great Chesterford and Elmdon. At Soham Health Centre there are
minibuses to bring patients in from neighbouring villages and this might be
arranged for Duxford.

1954

The general trend at the moment is to keep old people in their homes as long as
possible and to provide services to keep them happy and comfortable. Housing
Societies will no longer give money to the provision of residential homes for old
people. They have three different kinds of schemes. The able bodied are being
provided with flats, bungalows and converted flatlets with a residential warden,
the slightly less able need residential clubs or hostels where meals and staffing
is provided and the really old inform people require more in the way of care and
attention. The important thing is that the needs of their minds and spirits, as
well as their bodies, were thought of, the Cambridge Central Aid Society was told

1929

Millington Road – CDN 30.4.1929

c.44.6

1904

The stone laying was held of a new Wesleyan chapel being built at Old Chesterton to
supersede one which has been in use for 60 years and is dilapidated and unsightly.
It was first intended to erect it on Chesterton Road facing De Freville Avenue but
a site in Church Street was chosen and the builders, Messrs Kerridge and Shaw have
commenced operations of a simple structure capable of accommodating 150 persons
together with 120 Sunday School scholars. The building was within sight of two
other Christian churches but they came in the old Methodist spirit, as friends of
all and the enemy of none and would not injuriously rival or detract from their
work.

c.83.06
Thursday 6th May

1979

The garage, television and radio business run at Sawston by a former Battle of
Britain pilot, Frank Vindis, is a high-flying concern. He first opened his small
garage nearly 20 years ago and became an agent for Volkswagen and Audi cars,
selling 400 new vehicles last year. The radio and television side of the business
is booming as well. But space for further developments around his High Street
premises is running out and he may reluctantly have to start looking in other
villages to cope with the rapid expansion of trade.

1954

County planners say that the object of Sawston’s development plan is to assist in
the distribution of Greater London population and to provide a ‘safety valve’ for
industrial growth in the Cambridge area, otherwise expansion within the city might
have to be accepted. If market towns such as Royston and Haverhill had been in
Cambridgeshire the policy for expansion could be controlled and the Sawston plan
could be dropped. It was in the best interests of the County to leave the matter
open. But Coun Burkitt said they had no intention of suggesting London come to
Sawston.

1929

Cambridgeshire Co-operative creamery liquidation – CDN 30.4.1929

MILK

1904

Saffron Walden was roused from its normal quietude by a bellman announcing that the
sale of goods of passive resisters would be held on the Market Square. The town was
soon in a state of excitement and nearly 200 persons were present. Upon the
auctioneer offering the first lot, a silver watch, a few moments elapsed before
there was a bid of 10s, at which there was a cry of ‘Shame’. The next bid was 15s
when some rather unpleasant remarks were directed towards the auctioneer. The watch
was eventually bought by Mr Septimus Holttum for £1 16s 6d. On the second lot being
offered there were shouts of “Don’t bid”. It was a matter of satisfaction that out
of half a dozen auctioneers in the area, not one would take on the job.

c.33.9

Friday 7th May

1979

Cambridge University Radio has on the air after months of delay. Broadcasting from
a studio at Churchill College started with news taken from London Independent Radio
and was followed by local items prepared by students. At the controls - slotting in
their own jingles between records and other programmes – was the radio enthusiasts’
chairman, Mr Simon Cooper of Queens’ college. At present reception is confirmed to
the college but they hope to expand to Fitzwilliam and Jesus as soon as
examinations are over. National radio DJs were amongst the guests at a celebration
party.
c.27.8

1954

Cambridgeshire Police have been experimenting with a radio equipped motor cycle.
The wireless equipment supplied by Pye Telecom gives the same facilities as that
fitted to police cars. A patrolling motor cycle officer hears his call on the set;
pulls up and then can receive his message through a loudspeaker, or alternatively
through the hand microphone he uses for his own transmission. The range of the
radio is sufficient to cover any part of the county. If adopted it would enable
motor cycles to be used for many duties which at present require radio cars.

c.34.7

1929

Balsham water scheme – CDN 2.5.1929

c.24.2

1904

At midnight Friday, the driver of a goods train from Cambridge discovered that
several of his trucks were on fire. He got to Audley End station as quickly as
possible when it was found that a truck of straw, another containing corn, and also
one loaded with mangolds had become ignited. The burning trucks were promptly
shunted on to the Walden branch siding, and strenuous efforts were made to
extinguish the flames. However the trucks of wheat straw was burnt out. The corn is
somewhat damaged, and also the truck containing the mangolds.

c.26.1

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

1929 NOT FULLY TYPES

Monday 10th May

1979

If you own a Ford Cortina, especially if it has a ‘G’ or ‘H’ registration, there is
a better than even chance that a thief has his eye on it: police say it is the most
commonly stolen car of all the hundreds of different models on the roads today.
Cambridge with its multi-storey car parks and scattered off-street parking makes
for rich pickings. It is nothing for half a dozen to go over any given weekend.
They are easy to break into with their simple lever-lock mechanism and the 1968 and
1969 models are easiest of all. The car thief only has to carry five keys and at
least one will fit.

1954

Membership of the Automobile Association has increased by a million since the end
of the war and now totals 1,400,000. Nearly 30,000 of these live in the
Cambridgeshire district and for their benefit a new area office has been opened at
Hills Road Cambridge with a cocktail party. It was first envisaged 20 years ago and
will become part of their national radio network by which patrolmen were sent to
motorists in distress.

1929

en farmers’ bankruptcy – CDN 2.5.1929

1904

Sir – I should like to call attention to the nuisance existing in Gwydir Street
Cambridge caused by the volumes of dense black smoke from the chimney of the
brewery of Mr F. Dale. At times it is impossible to open either doors or windows
without the houses being filled with smoke and dirt. The chimney shaft should be
built to such a height that the smoke is not poured into the street to the injury
of the heath of the inhabitants – A Lover of Pure Air

c.27.4

Tuesday 11th May

1979

Tesco’s plans to expand their Bar Hill superstore have been turned down. The scheme
to almost double the size of the two-year-old store was rejected after objections
from the Parish Council and a residents’ association. They say Bar Hill had been
intended as a village and should not be made to house a massive structure which
destroyed the environment. A hypermarket was normally put in the middle of nowhere
so it could not disturb anyone

1954

Histon Football Club celebrated 50 years of football when 200 members attended a
dinner at the Dorothy Café together with celebrities such as Sir Stanley Rous,
Secretary of the English Football Association, the original secretary, A.T. Rogers
and one of the original players, V.A. Peck. The club’s history, team spirit and
organisation were all praised by speakers who added the right amount of joviality
to this historic occasion.

c.38 : football

1929

Balsham water scheme - CDN 2.5.1929

c.24.2

1904

The name and reputation of Maskelyne and Cocke, the most accomplished of wizards,
was sufficient to fill the Cambridge Guildhall to overflowing. The audience
experiences a certain bewilderment at the apparently supernatural occurrences on
the stage, but the performance is pleasantly blended with mirthful and musical
interludes that anything approaching monotony is avoided. A series of animated
photographs conclude with an ingenious representation of a motor car running full
tilt at the audience and both the cabinet and box tricks are worthy of their
reputation.

c.39 # c.65.5
Wednesday 12th May

1979

Cambridge United’s close-season glamour tour to Fiji and New Zealand has been
called off. Doubts started about the month-long tour when their Football
Association backed out from having United. When club chairman, Mr David Ruston,
telephoned the tour company he found the person he had been dealing with was on his
way to New Zealand – with Norwich City. Tour operators have been desperately trying
to find alternative games in Australia but have been unable to make definite
arrangements. Players, who have put off holidays because of the trip, say it is a
big letdown

c.38 : football

1954

Longstanton’s new school for five to 11-year-olds was opened - its gay colours and
ultra-modern interior flooded by sunlight. It has been built on the latest lines at
the lowest cost with wide windows providing natural lighting, three classrooms, an
assembly hall, staff room and kitchen. Children of airmen stationed at the
neighbouring Oakington will go there and it will also take in pupils from the
overcrowded village Church of England school. Lord Tedder, Marshall of the R.A.F.,
said: “I envy the children. It really is a beautiful place”.

c.36.6

1929

Guildhall flagpole blown down – CDN 7.5.1929

1904

The County Coroner has pointed out the stupidity of the superstition which induces
people to refrain from rendering assistance to the apparently hanged or drowned
person, until the arrival of the police. A labourer at Burwell found his brother
hanging in his cellar and instead of cutting him down he sent for the police. In
this case the unfortunate man had been dead for many hours but it is essential to
render immediate aid on the supposition that life is not extinct. Many a person now
dead would be alive today had this simple rule been acted upon

c.39

Thursday 13th May

1979

Cambridge scientists investigating light beam communication fear much of the new
technology may be lost abroad. Some of the first major applications of fibre optics
will be in the telephone networks and cable television. It will be possible to
distribute newspapers and journals directly to the home with small printers,
introduce electronic mail, receive television programmes, sports coverage and films
by subscription: the scope is endless. But Mike Brookfield of Cambridge Consultants
says that unless extra funding is provided the market will become completely
dominated by Japan and the United States.

c.27.1

1954

A baby girl born in Cambridge has the distinction of arriving in the world with six
of her eight great-grandparents still alive. Susan Carole Fuller is the daughter of
Mr & Mrs D.J. Fuller of Halifax Road. Her great grandparents on her father’s side
are Mr & Mrs W. Fuller aged 83 and 76 who now live in Wrexham, and Mr & Mrs B. Ager
of Blinco Grove. On her mother’s side they are Mr & Mrs V.F. Pursey of Mill Road.
She also has 18 great aunts and uncles. This is most unusual and may be a record
for Cambridge.

CHILDREN

1929

Burrell’s Walk eviction – CDN 7.5.1929

c.23

1904

The visit of England’s greatest living actress to Cambridge New Theatre will always
be regarded as an epoch for it is rare indeed that provincial audiences have an
opportunity of seeing Miss Ellen Terry. Naturally the house was packed from stalls
to gallery when she played Portia in ‘The Merchant of Venice’. She first appeared
in the third act and was given a fitting reception; the applause having died away
the audience listened in a complete silence, testimony of their appreciation of her
perfect elocution. Now and again the impulse to show appreciation became
irresistible and the progress of the play was punctuated with outbursts of
applause.

c.76

Friday 14th May

1979

It is costing the Pye Group £1.3 million to close two factories and meet redundancy
payments for those thrown out of work. They are Pye Engineering Services in
Cambridge, which closes next month with the loss of 200 jobs, and Pye Ether of
Stevenage. It is also closing Pye TMC’s factory at Livingstone, Scotland. The
profits of Pye Telecom – the largest single earner – were hit by competition from
major international suppliers but the Business Communications side had a good order
book and Pye Unicam orders were 20 per cent up. Sales of the Labgear television
Teletext adaptor were initially disappointing but are showing a marked improvement.

1954

The pilot of an R.A.F. Swift jet aircraft from Waterbeach airfield was killed when
it crashed within 200 yards of a group of houses in Stretham fen. Had the blast
from the aircraft, which exploded, gone in the direction of the houses then
wreckage would most certainly have struck them. As it was pieces of the aircraft
were strewn in a half circle for about 200 yards. Eye-witness Mr Leslie Pinion
said: “the plane dived straight down in the field and exploded”. It left a crater
about 15 feet deep. Waterbeach was the first unit to be equipped with Swift jet
fighters and the lightning-fast silver machines with their distinctive swept-back
wings have become a familiar sight.

c.26.1

1929

Potato peeling machine for schools – CDN 8.5.1929

1904

Councillors agreed a scheme for a mixed school for 200 boys and 200 girls in Romsey
Town, Cambridge. There should be a central hall, separate entrances, playgrounds
and offices and the architect should arrange his plans to allow two additional
classrooms at a future time. But they did not know how the numbers in the district
would be increased; this would only meet existing demands and the school should be
enlarged to take 500 as this would be much cheaper in the end.

c.36.5

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

1929 NOT TYPED

Monday 17th May

1979

Wartime memories came flooding back to the ex-servicemen who strolled across
Witchford airfield. A giant hangar here, a derelict office there, and bits of
crumbling runway everywhere: all helped them to remember the days when four-engined
Lancaster bombers rumbled off the airfield on bombing runs to Germany. Other
colleagues were at the nearby Shoulder of Mutton pub, supping pints & swapping
yards. All were members of 115 squadron who had returned for reunion celebrations

c.26.1

1954

An important stage of the life of the new church of St James’, Cambridge will be a
social to ‘kick off ‘the Building Fund. The first building will serve both as a
church and hall and be in a central position in Wulfstan Way, almost adjoining the
shops. Despite the absence of a church there is a very live congregation which
meets in school hall and the Sunday School averages 145 as the majority of families
in the parish have very young children

1929

Coad comes to Cambridge – CDN 9.5.1929

c.27.2

1904

The ancient custom of proclaiming Reach Fair is observed on Rogation Monday by the
Mayor and Corporation of Cambridge and has the advantage of imparting pomp and
circumstance it would otherwise lack, of making glad the hearts of children en
route with the sprinklings of copper coin, of affording members of the Corporation
pleasing relaxation from weightier cares and of increasing the profits of
proprietors of pleasure fair paraphernalia, particularly those of owners of
cocoanut shies. Trading in horses constitutes practically the only business part of
the fair and this year the animals were in short supply. A quack paid one or two
people a shilling for the privilege of extracting their unsound teeth and then did
a brisk trade selling patent medicines for most of the ills of mankind

c.39 # c.27.3

Tuesday 18th May

1979

Princess Margaret made an unscheduled walk to one of Cambridge’s oldest churches,

St Peter’s on Castle Hill. It followed her visit the University’s Gallery of Modern
Art at Kettle’s Yard, which was opened by Prince Charles in his undergraduate days.
She saw a model of the proposed extensions which if approved would double the
exhibition space and provide refreshment facilities for the public. Later, at her
own request, she saw a class of medical students at work in the University
Department of Physiology.

c.02

1954

There were strong protests at plans for new offices at Shire Hall Cambridge. The
new building would contain Assize and Quarter Sessions courts, offices and
accommodation for the County Library. The courts at Linton, Caxton, Melbourn and
Bottisham were ‘shockers’, housed in old police stations and the magistrates would
be only too happy to do their work in an up-to-date building. Architects had
strongly advised against cheese-pairing costs of the assembly hall: Cambridge’s
lovely college buildings had been the best and had stood the test of time and the
costs of labour and materials were rising. But a new plan for one-tier local
government might mean the doom of County Councils and the scheme should be
deferred.

c.34.7

1929

Fordham man buried in best suit – American custom – CDN 9.5.1929

c.39

1904

The Association of Managers of Sewage Disposal Works inspected the Cambridge

pumping station destructors where all kinds of refuse turned out from households
daily, sweepings and other undesirable matter is tipped into huge trucks and burnt,
giving off heat used whose steam is used to pump sewage. During winter months some
40 tons of refuse is burned each day. The disinfector was examined with interest;
it was installed in 1902 and during the smallpox of 1904 was of great service in
disinfecting a great number of articles using super-heated steam. They then moved
to the Corporation sewage farm, Milton Road, for a practical demonstration of
sewerage analysis

c.29.8

Wednesday 19th May

1979

Niggling away in the minds of 1,500 people who work at the Cambridge Instrument
Company and at Sinclair Radionics at St Ives is the question: “Will we still be
here next week?” The two companies are part of the National Enterprise Board
without whose contributions of public money both would certainly have gone to the
wall in the last three years. Now Mrs Thatcher’s new man for industry, Sir Keith
Joseph is planning to restrict the NEB’s activities. Sinclair’s history has been
one of total innovation. It was the first in the field with a pocket-sized
electronic calculator, it made an all-new digital watch – plagued with technical
problems - and the world’s smallest television with a two-inch screen. But it made
a £2 million loss last year. Both may disappear for good if the new Government
pulls the financial rug out now.

c.27.1

1954

The Morris Oxford saloon, the first new model produced by the British Motor
Corporation, was shown to Cambridge motor dealers at a pre-view at King and
Harper’s showroom in Bridge Street. It costs £744 17s.6d including purchase tax
which is a moderate price for a car which incorporates many striking new features.
The gear lever is mounted on the steering wheel and there is syncromesh on third
and fourth gears. There is plenty of room for four people with a bench front seat
while a built-in heater can supply a warm current of fresh air. Curved windscreen,
deep rear window, receding bonnet and a wing line carried through from front to
rear are the most prominent design features and they all add up to beauty of line.

c.26.48

1929

Abbey Church new porch dedicated – CDN 10.5.1929

c.83.01

1904

Some years ago a Wicken labourer who was remonstrated with by the parson for not
sending his son to school, gave as his reason the ignorance of the schoolmaster who
“actually taught his son Alf to spell ‘taters’ with a ‘p’!” But in Fitzroy Street
Cambridge we have a ‘Shrit’ maker (presumably a maker of shirts) and find ‘fresh
fish on sail every day’. A shoemaker announces that boots are sold and heeled at
reasonable prices’ and nearby there is a ‘wheelebarrow for sale’. Not far removed
one can read that ‘Horehound Bear’ is on sale.

c.39

Thursday 20th May

1979
Farmers were weighting up the damage caused by the worst fen blow for several
years. Fierce winds whipped up the light soil but they were highly localised. The
worst affected areas were at Prickwillow, Stretham, Coveney & Chatteris where there
were dust clouds all around but fortunately a cloudburst dampened the fields after
an hour’s blowing. Elsewhere orchards took a bad buffeting. A fallen tree blocked
the Harlton to Haslingfield road for several hours and another fell at Cottenham.
An invalid carriage was blown from the A14 at Papworth and two motorcycles collided
in the strong winds.

c.22

1954

People passing Cambridge airport were intrigued to see the arrival of a German-
built ultra-light aircraft, the Zaunkoenig. The tiny plane which can land and take
off from the proverbial sixpence and is virtually ‘unstallable’ is the only
survivor of a group of ten; the others were destroyed in Germany towards the end of
the war. It is present on loan to the Cambridge Private Flying Group, but the
members hope to make it their property. With a cruising speed of only 56 mph it is
an ideal aerial runabout and can be hired out for a mere 30 shillings an hour.

c.26.1

1929

Cycle paths proposed CDN 13.5.1929

c.26.485

1904

It is little known that the Master of Trinity College has the prerogative of
remaining covered in the presence of the Sovereign and on one occasion when Queen
Victoria visited Cambridge he kept his hat on. The Queen apparently did not notice
the circumstances and he began to feel uncomfortable. At length he said; “Your
Majesty has perhaps wondered that I should be so far lacking in respect, but Lord
Kingsale in Ireland, Lord Forester in England and the Master of Trinity have a
right to keep their hats on in the presence of their Sovereign”. “Quite so – ahem –
but not in the presence of a lady” was the Queen’s freezing reply.

c.39

Friday 21st May

1979

Forty per cent of Cambridge students are potential psychiatric cases, according to
a report published by the Students’ Union. There area large number of reasons but
whether Cambridge attracts people with a predisposition to mental illness or
creates that illness once they arrive, the university has a responsibility to its
students. The women in men’s colleges are far more stressed than their counterparts
in single-sex colleges and the male students about to be introduced into Girton,
the oldest women’s college, could end up suffering a corresponding weight of
stress. The report is bound to spark off controversy among dons.

c.21.5
1954

The official opening of Barrington sports ground had to be held in the village
hall, owing to rain. As recently as 1950 the site was a wilderness complete with
pots and pans, but it has now been transformed & should be a delight for many years
to come. It consists of a full-size bowling green, two tennis courts and a roller-
skating rink; this was unique and would protect the children from the dangers of
the road. In the near future they hoped to get a cricket pavilion on the village
green

1929

Alan Cobhams flying circus, Varsity flying rules – CDN 15.5.1929

c.26.1

1904

A Waterbeach man was summoned for riding a motor bicycle in Downing Street,
Cambridge, with the mark obscured. P.c. Rowlingson said he saw the number CE 110 on
the front but could not see one on the back. Defendant said the number was on when
he left and was there later. But it was close up to the saddle and had perhaps been
obscured by his coat. The police were right to bring the case; the number was there
but could not be seen. However there was no intention to obscure it and the
defendant was convicted and discharged.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

1929 NOT TYPED

Monday 24th May

1979

Ballet dancers arriving at the Big Top on Jesus Green, Cambridge found their ‘blue
boxes’ which contain their make-up, practice clothes and spare shoes were standing
in solitary state in an empty room. Heavy rains for two days meant that workmen
were behind in assembling the pre-fabricated portable cabins which they were to use
as dressing rooms. Some had no water, no glass in the windows and no heating. There
were no trestle tables and chair, let alone bulbs, basins and bins. At 5.15 they
decided for the first time in the company’s seven seasons in the Big Top that there
could be no performance that night.

c.69

1954

Sir –Thousands and thousands of pounds have been spent at Histon: we have had a
canteen at the Junior School, new houses for Impington College, new Police houses &
a sewerage scheme which does not work. More has been spent on the road near Histon
station which appears to have narrowed rather than widened it and the road to
Cottenham, where no building is allowed, has been beautifully tarmaced. We are very
grateful but the paths have potholes and we really need a bridge over the railway
at the station for cyclists and pedestrians – a Mere Ratepayer

1929
Corporation Archives – CDN 15.5.1929

c.35.7 # c.43

1904

Sir Edmund Verney told a Cambridge conference on the Poor Law that everybody in the
country hated education. The squire and the parson could not bear it. (Cries of
‘No, No’.) They said ‘Oh, if you teach these men they will be too independent: we
don’t want these independent men’. (‘No.No.’). ‘A farmer said to me: ‘I don’t want
my labourers to know all I know, and the labourers’ wives will come to me with
tears running down their cheeks begging that their children may be allowed to work
on the land and earn a little money’. Nobody could say ‘No’ to that. All three
classes hated education.

c.32.9 # c.36.6

Tuesday 25th May

1979

Hundreds of disappointed ballet enthusiasts had to be turned away from the Big Top
on Jesus Green when the opening performance of the Sadler’s Wells Royal Ballet was
cancelled. City council entertainment staff headed by Mr John Wilkinson were
standing by as ballet-goers trudged through the squelching grass only to be told
the bad news. Most people took it in good part, though there were complaints from
those who had driven from as far as Bishop’s Stortford and Hatfield. They were not
interested in refunds, they wanted another chance to see the ballet. But most of
the 1,200 tickets have been sold and the company’s schedule means that no
replacement performance can be held.

c.69

1954

Teversham people turned up in substantial numbers for the opening of their new
recreational ground, Queen’s Playing Field. Villagers had worked hard to get the
land but this was just a start. They should have a children’s adventure playground.
These are quite small and very informal. You can have all kinds of junk, as
children will be far happier playing with a lot of old junk rather than with the
ordinary swings and slides. There are a lot of youngsters and adolescents getting
into trouble because they have nowhere to play and it would keep them off the roads
helping reduce the appalling number of accidents.

1929

Football referee attacked – CDN 18.5.1929

c.38 : football

1904

The unexpected death of a prisoner at the Cambridge Prison occasioned the holding
of an inquest. The man’s name appeared to be Patrick O’Shea, though as a matter of
fact he had a variety of names – Nil, Laughton, Carrington, MacDonald, MacArthur,
Montmorency and Hassan Effendi. He gave his age as 45 and his occupation that of a
labourer and was committed for trial for stealing money in Wisbech. Warder Andrews
said he heard a noise from the cell and found the man apparently in a fit. Death
was due to apoplexy.

c.34.7

Wednesday 26th May

Nineteen adults and one baby defied the might of Cambridge City Council and the
Home Office. Never mind that Reach Fair came and went two weeks ago the more
traditional residents remain convinced that the charter of 1201 should be obeyed
and that it should take place during Rogation Week. They dismissed the decision
that for commercial reasons it would be held on the new May bank holiday instead.
In a modest ceremony ‘King’ Len Warren proclaimed the charter to the modest crowd.
Apart from the swings on the common there was no fair to speak of, so revellers
made their way back into the Dykes End pub to continue their celebrations.

c.39 # c.27.3

1954

Newmarket Town’s new sports and social club was opened by the manager of West Ham
United Football Club. Their first aim was to be a place where people interested in
any kind of sport could meet and talk over a glass of beer. Secondly they wanted to
put Newmarket Town Football Club back on its feet financially and in sporting
glory. The past seasons had not been as successful as they would have liked, but
they always tried to play good football.

1929

Flying pageant on Sunday opposed – CDN 18.5.1929

c.26.1

1904

A fire destroyed Mrs Cornell’s fishmonger’s shop on Mill Road, Cambridge. It was
caused through the ignition of some fat used for the purpose of frying fish.
Although the shop was sparsely stocked there was sufficient inflammable material in
it to make it impossible to arrest the fire in its early stages, and soon the
interior was a mass of flames which rapidly penetrated through the ceiling and
attacked the contents of the front room on the first floor. The alarm was given by
means of the Thoday Street fire alarm and the firemen arrived within twelve minutes
with the horsed fire escape and tender and prevented the flames attacking adjoining
premises.

c.27.2 # c.44.6

Thursday 27th May

1979

Any attempt to put London’s third airport in the Essex countryside will be bitterly
resisted by the two villages near Saffron Walden that have been marked out as
possible sites. The Government’s study group has picked out Stansted and Langley
for further examination. The latter would have a horrendous effect on Royston and
south Cambridgeshire. It would overturn the peace, quality of life and happiness
everyone is used to and be part of a huge conurbation where noise and money took
the upper hand. The chairman of the parish council said: “I am horrified. We have
fought it before under another name – Nuthampstead. Why are we being subjected to
it again”

1954

Sir: - at Histon there are hoards of men digging out trenches to say nothing of the
shoals of men from the Electricity and Gas Boards concerned in this wild cat scheme
of wasting the ratepayers money. On top of all these men getting in each others way
there are the visitations in highly polished cars, twice daily, of the ‘top dogs’
just to see that in refilling the trenches they don’t bury any of the pick and
shovel men. I wouldn’t care less what the authorities are doing was it not for the
disfigurement of the road and the colossal cost of the scheme which has to be met
by yours etc – Poor Ratepayer

1929

First car in Cambridge – CDN 22.5.1929

c.26.48

1904

The placid life of Linton has been stirred by a rumour that the dead body of a
pauper had been sold by the Master of the Workhouse to the Cambridge School of
Anatomy. This was a perfectly lawful proceeding under the Anatomy Act which
provides that the bodies of unclaimed paupers may be used for scientific study. The
matter had been debated by the Board of Guardians who voted five for and five
against but the Chairman declined to give the casting vote. The Master had taken it
upon himself to send the body to Cambridge. But it was not ‘sold’.

c.32.9 # c.21.1 # c.39 # GHOST

Friday 28th May

1979

Lightning struck Willingham windmill and started a fire in straw round the base of
the 150-year-old mill. It came during a sudden thunderstorm and one terrific
thunderclap shook doors and windows all around the village. But it was not until
two hours later than a passer-by noticed the charred and smouldering wood of the
sail and raised the alarm. Mr Ray Cattell, aged 73, who owns the mill which has
been in his family for generations managed to douse most of the fire at the base
but it took firemen with a turntable ladder to tackle the still smouldering sail
about 60 feet above the ground. They had to remove about a third of the sail
because it had been weakened by the lightning.

WINDMILL

1954

Only a fenman can portray the fens as they are and capture their atmosphere and the
characteristics of the people. To anyone else, says James Wentworth Day, ‘It looks
like mile after mile of black damn-all’. But they are rich in tradition and in his
latest book ‘A History of the Fens’ he has tried to give a ‘human’ history before
the ‘spitting of the tractor’ when it had a magic enchantment and fish were taken
by the hundredweight from the lodes and drains. He describes the average fenman as
‘still sturdily independent, often narrow-minded &, suspicious of strangers’
1929

Work for Cambridgeshire men – CDN 29.5.1929

c.32.1

1904

Cambridge cemetery committee considered whether to close the whole of the Mill Road
burial ground. They had asked the various incumbents as to the number of grave
spaces allotted to their parishes and whether it was possible to identify the
graves of all persons buried there. It appeared to be dependent on the knowledge of
the sexton and there was no way of identifying the position of each grave. There
should be a public enquiry. But there were many timid widows who had husbands
buried there and would like to be buried there too who would not go to an enquiry.
Alderman Kett agreed: he would like his bones to be laid there and had six or seven
unoccupied spaces for members of his family. What would an inspector care about
such sentiments. He would be overruled by those fanatics of sanitary improvement.

c.21.2

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

1929 NOT FULLY TYPED

Monday 31st May

1979

One of the world’s most powerful electron microscopes was officially unveiled –
floating on a cushion of air in the city centre. It marked the competition of the
Cambridge University 600kV High Resolution Electron Microscope, a £1 million
project which has taken eight years. The microscope is 25 feet high and weighs more
than seven tons. It occupies two floors at the old Cavendish Laboratory. There have
been problems caused by vibration from nearby traffic so the instrument is
surrounded by three massive arms on cushions of compressed air to avoid any
distortion

c.36.9

1954

The owner of historic Milton House was granted possession and awarded £2,500
damages and the tenant of the house, said to be in “an absolutely shocking state”,
must quit in three weeks, Cambridge magistrates decreed. The house, once owned by
William Cole, was of antiquarian interest. King’s College had owned it and spent
£899 on it in 1932; now it was almost derelict and the garden a wilderness. A tree
fell on part of the building in 1946. There was valuable panelling in the building
rotting in places. An estate agent said it did not look as if it had been painted
for about 20 years. Repairs would cost £2,432 at least and its value in the present
state was about £1,250

c.61.7

1929
Festival Theatre changes hands

c.76

1904

Cambridge Fire Brigade committee reported on the provision for extinguishing fires
in large buildings and the cost of maintenance of a steam fire engine. They visited
the University Library where regular fire brigade drills took place regularly, but
there was no special provision for the escape of work people from business premises
except in one instance where a canvas shoot had been obtained. A fire engine would
cost less than £200 a year, which was less than that paid for the police imported
on the occasion of the King’s visit to keep order for a single night. But there was
not space at the fire station to accommodate it and most of the large buildings
were protected by means of private fire appliances

c.34.75

Tuesday 1st June

1979

The Farmland Museum at Haddenham is to close – because it is too successful. It

will shut after celebrating its tenth anniversary because the owners, the Delanoy
family, say it is eating up too much time and money. It started when their son
Craig, then four, collected a few items in a bedroom and invited relations to view
them. Since then it has developed an international reputation and attracts
thousands of visitors, raising money for charity. Last Saturday alone it had 640
visitors at the village open day and even with voluntary helpers lending a hand
they cannot continue.

c.03

1954

Chesterton Rural District Council has completed 187 houses during the last year,
the highest since the war, although the target of 200 was not reached. The main
reason were the shortage of bricks and roofing tiles and the fact that substitute
materials had to be used for internal work. Considerable progress has been made in
rehousing tenants occupying converted huts: 52 families have been rehoused and the
huts pulled down. Agreement has been reached with county planners on the
development of a number of villages.

c.23
1929

Election candidates’ tours – CDN 30.5.1929

c.33

1904

Sir – some months ago when estimates were presented to the District Council for a
new iron footbridge in Horn Lane, Linton the District Surveyor offered to do the
work for less than the lowest tender. This was accepted and the old wooden bridge
was pulled down. But since then the thoroughfare which is almost as much frequented
has the High Street has been impassable. On going down it I was confronted with a
notice saying ‘No footpath’. This I cannot understand as the path is there all
right, but no bridge. I hope this will not continue indefinitely – ‘Lintonian’

c.44.75

Wednesday 2nd June

1979

Joy, nervous anticipation and occasionally disappointments are the exciting

ingredients of the Cambridge Competitive Festival – highlight of the year for
hundreds of schoolchildren. Aspiring actors, orators and dancers jostle for
trophies but as each year passes more and more young musicians stay away. Teachers
of music feel that the arts aren’t helped by a sports day atmosphere. But for many
parents and their children it is rewarding to see all those hours of painful
practice being given some tangible recognition with a prize and the losers benefit
from the expert adjudicators’ constructive comments.

1954

A new female tuberculosis wing has been opened at Fulbourn Mental Hospital. Bright
and airy, with beds for 14 patients, it is the first completely new building there
since the war. Modern treatment has done much to reduce the menace of TB but sudden
and instant tragedy can spring up, especially in the young from transmission of the
disease from an adult. Infection diseases was one of the nightmares in hospitals,
especially those in which there was likely to be a prolonged stay, and it was
frustrating not to have the proper resources for preventing the spread of
infection. In the past the mental hospital service has been somewhat isolated but
it is now becoming part of a fully-integrated service. But East Anglia is the only
region without a costly neuro-surgery unit.

c.21.5

1929

Chettisham’s water – CDN 1.6.1929

c.24.2

1904

Knoll Cottage, Bourn was burnt down on Saturday afternoon. The fire broke out about
3pm and although the Bourn Hall Fire Engine under the direction of Mr Weightman was
quickly got to work it was not until seven o’clock that the flames were subdued and
by then most of the roof had fallen in. Mr & Mrs Barker are at present in India and
their pretty residence had been sub let to Mr Farquharson who takes a great
interest in poultry. The fire is supposed to have been caused by a defective lamp
used for heating an incubator.

c.6.17

Thursday 3rd June

1979

Quy boast just about the best facilities in village cricket. They have a
magnificent pavilion and the finest wicket in the county. All they do not have is a
cricket team. The club was forced to withdraw when officials discovered they could
find only six players for their opening game against Bottisham. The basic problem
is the lack of youngsters to replace retiring players said George Carter who is now
60 but only retired from playing a few seasons ago. One villager who has supported
the club through thick and thin is Doug Rolph, the man responsible for the
outstanding quality of the wickets. He will be playing for Lode this season but
will be the first to return when Quy start up again.

1954

Fervid Peterborough football supporters, led by their own ‘Mr Posh’ (Tom Keeble)
wearing top hat and tails, paraded outside the Café Royal in Regent Street, London
where Football League chiefs were meeting. The fans were trying to impress on
officials their claims to have the club admitted to the Football League, but
failed. Five hundred supporters had wanted to join the march but it was decided to
limit the party to fifty to maintain dignity.

1929

Cambridge Undergraduate film comedy – Aunt Matilda’s Nephew – CDN 1.6.1929

c.76.9

1904

There has been a sequel to the hostile demonstration by the village of Hardwick
against their rector. Although nearly a year has elapsed since the eventful evening
on which members of his flock marched down to their shepherd’s abode and expressed
their unfavourable opinion of the occupants by beating improvised tom toms the
influence of that episode still disastrously infects the village. The Rector
recently gave notice to the occupiers of allotments on the glebe land and the
impression is prevalent that it is because of their refusal to attend church. The
number of the congregation has dwindled and now only eight attend Sunday worship
with the others holding services in a dilapidated cottage on the outskirts of the
village.

c.82

Friday 4th June

1979

Some beer at this year’s St Neots Beer Festival is going to cost 65p a pint and the
organisers are worried that drinkers will feel ‘ripped off’ by the prices. Derek
Giles of CAMRA said: “We have been costing out the various beers and find local
beers will be about 34p a pint but with the cost of transport one or two will be
more than 50p. Kingsdown, a very strong beer will be the most expensive.

1904

A total of 29 cottages at Great and Little Abington were put up for sale, and the
majority were purchased by the Cambridgeshire Cottage Improvement Society to ensure
the preservation of the character of these two charming villages. Much will have to
be spent in necessary repairs and rethatching to preserve them, as many are in the
protected occupation of tenants who pay a rent of less than three shillings a week.
The Society owns 22 cottages in Grantchester and elsewhere and has decided to
embark on a policy to preserve what is still basically good, but in danger.

1929

CDN issue a ‘Sporting News’ morning edition – CDN 1.6.1929

1904

An important property sale was conducted at the Lion Hotel, Cambridge. Several lots
were offered including the Wesleyan Chapel at Old Chesterton which, however, was
not sold. The brick-built building with a class room at the rear was withdrawn at
£165. A plot of building land opposite De
Freville Avenue fetched £285; the residence ‘Sepha Villa’, Lyndewode Road was
withdrawn at £640 and a modern family residence known as ‘Lucerne’ on Hills Road
with gardens of a quarter of an acre was withdrawn at £725. Winthingham House, 199
Chesterton Road with gardens and a coach house was withdrawn at £1,850 but ao
University lodging house at no.9 Malcolm Street, licensed to let three sets (two at
£11 and one at £7) sold for £355

Looking Back by Mike Petty

1929 NOT TYPED

Monday 7th June

1979

Peace returned to the Big Top at the weekend and it was possible to enjoy two major
artistic events without the accompaniment of heavy rain on canvas, whistling wind
and a variety of off-stage rumblings. For the first time in a fortnight consecutive
performances were staged without the artists and audience being drenched and
deafened, though they had to be on their guard against damp patches on the walkways
and duck-boards. It is a visit the Sadler’s Wells Ballet Company is unlikely to
forget. But the foul weather may trigger off a discussion on Cambridge’s future as
a regional artistic centre. There are few cities where such keen following can be
found for top-rate entertainment and the large audiences deserve something better
than a circus tent on a patch of churned-up grass.

c.69

1954

Standen and Son, the manufacturers of Sugar Beet Harvesters, appreciate the needs
of the small grower for a compact harvester costing about £300. Prototype machines
were built and put to work in the fields where they operated for weeks on end.
Often they were taken back into the workshops at night for modification and be in
the fields again next morning. So the ‘Junior’ harvester was born and the firm’s
works at Ely and St Ives are busy producing the machine for this year’s crop.
1929

Ely dispensary report – CDN 3.6.1929

c.21.1

1904

A serious accident occurred following the ‘Mays’. After the half-past six race
there is usually a scramble from the course to the boat-yards and collisions are
frequent. But when a steamer and pleasure craft collide the consequences are
unpleasant for the occupants of the smaller boats. Two of these were overturned and
their eight occupants, including ladies, were precipitated into the water but
happily all were rescued. One lady excited admiration for her cool behaviour in a
perilous position and managed to climb into one of the small craft.

c.26.3 # c.38 : rowing

Tuesday 8th June

1979

A secret plan to knock down part of All Saints’ Church in Cambridge has led to
protests from preservationists. Ely Diocese, which closed the church in 1973, wants
to use the land for an extension to Westcott House theological college and for
diocesan offices. But the Victorian Society who are anxious to protect its William
Morris murals and stained glass have accused them of ‘wilfully neglecting’ the
building until it was past saving. They say it is the finest Victorian church in
Cambridge and it seems extraordinary that it is being treated in this manner. Parts
of the roof let in daylight and many of the murals have been ruined by mould and
damp.

c.83.01

1954

Eastern Electricity says that more villages in the Ely area are to be connected to
the public supply in the next six months. Already Mepal, Coveney, Pondersbridge and
Ramsey Heights have been connected and Prickwillow, Barway and outlying parts of
Haddenham and Littleport will follow. But it can only be economically justified if
farmers recognise that electricity be used to the fullest extent as an aid to
production and not just for lighting, radio and television. It increases their
output and hastens the day when electricity can be made available throughout the
whole of the countryside.

c.24.6

1929

Why the Cambs MP was late – Capt Biscoe helps get horse out of ditch – CDN 4.6.29

c.33

1904

Professor Darwin was summonsed for riding a bicycle on the footpath on Coe Fen. Pc
Ridgewell said he had got off when he spoke to him but then mounted his bicycle and
rode off. The Professor said he thought he had better get off the common as quickly
as possible and it never occurred to him that he should walk. He had ridden the
path for ten or twelve years and had never been spoken before. He was fined five
shillings.

c.26.485

Wednesday 9th June

1979

The £10 million Kite area shopping and parking scheme scheduled for opening in 1982
may be scrapped if opposition against it throughout Cambridge is strong enough. An
official of Grosvenor Estates, the development company, said “If the people of
Cambridge do not want our product we shall not give it to them”. But the present
indications are that the public does want the Burleigh Street – Fitzroy Street area
to be redeveloped as quickly as possible, despite the protests being voiced by
pressure groups. The Kite Co-ordinating Council say the plans are ‘hopelessly
inappropriate’ and it is a very cheap scheme: Cambridge deserves something much
better than this.

c.49.5

1954

Would-be pilots can now learn to fly for as little as ten shillings a week. A
scheme introduced by Cambridge Aero Club now brings the cost within the reach of
most pockets. For an initial payment of £1 plus the weekly amount they can then
carry out one and a half hours flying in a four-week period, or more if they pay
extra. The Club has been operating continuously – except war years – since 1929 and
offers training facilities for the Student Private and Commercial Pilots’ licences
including instrument and night flying

c.26.1

1929

Cambridge Rifle Club formed – CDN 8.6.29

c.38 : shooting

1904

Cambridge Victoria Cricket Club celebrated its jubilee. From as far back as 1855
there are complete histories of matches played. The first took place between teams
captained by Mr Goody and Mr Merry. In 1859 an All England XI [ELEVEN] played 22 of
Cambridge Town on Parker’s Piece, five of whom were from the Victoria Club. In the
early 1860’s there was keen rivalry with village of Abington who possessed a very
decent eleven composed of people gathered from surrounding places such as Linton,
Hinxton and even Cambridge. The Victorians were so keen they played cricket
whenever the opportunity offered, even on ice when ‘the ball was returned very
quickly and a number of men run out’

c.38 : cricket
Thursday 10th June

1979

A huge blaze engulfed the RHM wheat silo at Great Shelford. Within minutes flames
and dense black smoke was billowing high into the afternoon sky. The 50-year-old 60
feet tall building was entirely made of wood with just a corrugated iron shell &
contained 1,000 tons of wheat. It took 30 firemen nearly an hour to bring it under
control and prevent the fire spreading to the mill itself. Had it been of a metal
construction it would have distorted and collapsed and it was the bulk of the
timber which saved the building.

1954

Cambridge University scientists are helping in the construction of Britain’s first

cobalt beam machine – the latest and most powerful weapon in the fight against
cancer. Centrepiece of the machine is a tiny piece of cobalt the size of a pile of
six halfpennies which has been activated by two years’ exposure to atomic radiation
inside the Atomic Pile at Harwell. It is only half the size of other machines
because of the use of uranium shields instead of lead & will emit a beam equivalent
to 3,000,000 volts.

c.36.9

1929

Corn harvest wages – CDN 10.6.29

c.22

1904

An extraordinary story has been going the rounds that a large sum of money has
been found in a house sold after the death of its occupant. The house in question
is 79 Regent Street, Cambridge and the occupant was C.J. Drage, recently deceased.
Furniture and plate came under the auctioneers hammer and the house itself put up
for auction. After the sale it was said that money, in far larger amount than an
even wealthy gentleman would ordinarily keep in his house, was accidentally
discovered. The solicitors for the executors does not confirm the truth or
otherwise of the rumours but I understand that a ‘find’ of some sort was really
made.

c.39

Friday 11th June

1979

Regulars at the Green Hill in Linton chucked scornfully about a dirty old pair of
shoes found during renovation work on the pub’s ancient fireplace. But the
landlady, Pauline Adams was inclined to think there was something significant about
the find, and she was right. Close inspection reveals that they are not actually a
pair but are probably of 17th-century date and would have been placed there to ward
off the evil eye of witches. Now they may help to attract customers; they are just
the sort of historical oddity that drinkers like to come across in pubs – something
to puzzle over with a pint.

c.39

1954

The Air Ministry is being blamed by farmers for the flooding of the land between St
Ives and Wyton aerodrome. They say that heavy rains were made worse by the
aerodrome’s extended runway that shot the water on to hundreds of acres of land. In
the old days the water on the hill seeped through slowly or went into the normal
ditches. On Chivers’ farm at St Ives some 3,000 chickens were in danger of drowning
and elsewhere water came up to the stomachs of cattle. Orchards were flooded,
fields of beans had 23 inches of water in them & swans were swimming in a field of
brussel spouts. The floods have done more damage than those of 1947.

c.29

1929

Cambridge air pageant – CDN 10.6.1929

c.26.1

1904

During ‘May’ Week the permanent part of the population takes much coin of the realm
from the floating part but this year visitors seemed likely to be well down because
of the weather. Then on Thursday sunbeams brought a large number of visitors
bringing with them awe-inspiring loads of luggage. Airy dresses of muslin and
chiffon and a boating excursion are inseparable to the feminine. They were very
comfortable during the all-too-brief spell of sunshine but then the ladies grew
colder and colder until in desperation they gratefully accepted loans of jackets
and even overcoats from their male escorts. Thus the racing was not as picturesque
as it might have been.

c.36.9 # c.39

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

1929 STORIES NOT TYPED

Monday 14th June

1979

Remember ‘One potato, two potato, three potato, four …” Nearly all of us once
learned these little rhymes and they lie pushed away to the back of the mind.
Nobody actually teaches them but yet they are kept alive mysteriously from one
generation to another as is clear from a collection of playground rhymes from the
Romsey area of Cambridge. They have a local variation: “Ippy dippy dation, My
operation, How many people, At the Station, No, So you are not IT”. One mother
recalled that every time an ambulance went by she said: “Touch my collar, Touch my
nose, I will never go in one of those” and the finger had to stay on the nose until
a black dog was spotted.
c.39

1954

Despite continuous train a large number of spectators watched the Cambridge Centaur
Club’s grass track meeting at Cottenham. It is doubtful if such an impressive array
of established grass track riders had ever been assembled at any one meeting. The
local scramble star from Girton, Andy Lee, fell from his machine in the path of a
following rider who was unable to avoid him and the race was stopped while Lee was
borne away by stretcher. After medical attention he was able to return and rode in
a later race when he received an ovation from the spectators.

c.38 : scrambling

1929

Cambridge air pageant opening Marshalls – CDN 10.6.1929

c.26.1

1904

Cambridge University Polo Club commenced their May Week activities with a polo pony
show, the first held by the club. A driving competition through posts separated
from the wheels of the vehicles by only two inches was productive of some amusement
as some competitors used hansoms and one a large brake. Ladies took part and the
first prize was obtained by Miss de Freville. Later a fair number of spectators
watched the polo tournament and had the satisfaction, or otherwise, of listening to
amorous melodies rendered by Pierrots whose accompaniment proceeded from a
harmonium.

c.38 : polo

Tuesday 15th June

1979

The new owner of Saffron Walden’s most unusual accommodation will need a 14-foot
ladder as well as a front key to get in. The potential bed-sitter is a room with a
view, perched above a 16th-century waggon arch in King Street. The only way in is a
door high above the ground or a sash window at the front, overlooking the town
centre. An estate agent said: “It could be reached fairly easily with a retractable
ladder”. The room, wedged between a record shop and a tailors was blocked up when
the arch and the record shop came under separate ownership. It is excepted to fetch
about £2,000 if it can be sold.

1954

The new Mayoress, Mrs H.R. Mallett, came to Cambridge during the Great War as a
young nurse at the First Eastern General Hospital and there she met her husband who
was a sergeant-major in the Medical Corps. Nurses in those days received £10 a
year, plus £3 beer money but the uniform, lodgings and washing were all found. They
mostly lived in their uniform and had nothing to spend the money on except a few
clothes. The beer money went in afternoon teas and cakes on their off-duty days.
The job was fun but the discipline strict.

c.45.5
1929

Conington air thrills – CDN 11.6.1929

c.26.1

1904

The list of candidates who have been sitting for the order of merit competition in
the Mathematical Tripos will be published tomorrow morning. The interest is just as
great as in past years and the utmost eagerness prevails as to who will win the
Blue Ribbon in Mathematics. The Colonies are not supplying so many candidates;
India is represented, but Sanhara Balaji Dhavle, of Kelhpur is not likely to
emulate Paranjpye, the Senior Wrangler of five years ago. Ireland in G. Leatham of
Belfast has a candidate of the strongest credentials while the North of England has
a formidable array of mathematicians. One of the most striking features is the
number of candidates who were at Board and Elementary Schools, including the
Trachtenberg twins, who are Jews, who were at Higher Grade Schools.

c.36.9

Wednesday 16th June

1979

In 1921 the garage on the corner of Hills Road, Cambridge, broke all records by
selling 25 Model ‘T’ Fords. Now the firm of Gilbert Rice which took over the
premises aims for 100 times that turnover. There is a used car facility with space
to display 75 cars and they have installed service and repair facilities. In the
light of the impending fuel crisis smaller cars will be substituted for thirsty
larger ones and there could be changes in the type of fuel used. The company is
prepared to adapt and says the car dealer of the future will be running a very
different type of business from today

c.26.48

1954

An inquest was held on a London shipping clerk killed when the bridge of a motor
cruiser he was piloting along the New Bedford River struck the underside of the
bridge at Earith. He was in one of two boats hired from Banham’s that had left from
Denver Sluice. There was a high tide but the sluice keeper had said they would be
able to get through to Earith that evening. The river was in flood and he might
have made an error of judgement in estimating the clearance or failed to see beams
under the bridge because of fading light. Dr Fairweather said he’d suffered from a
depressed fracture of the skull.

c.26.3

1929

Sunday air pageant – CDN 12.6.1929

c.26.1

1904
Cambridge people always delight to honour distinguished townsmen and we
congratulate Mr O.H.B. Starte for his brilliant display in the Mathematical Tripos.
It is not often that a townsman, and a son of a townsman, gains such high honours
in the University and his success will prove a very popular one. He was a
foundation scholar of the Perse Grammar School and entered Clare with a
scholarship. Now he has crowned his brilliant career by coming in as fifth
wrangler. Such honour gained by a Cambridge man trained in a Cambridge scholastic
institution should increase the affection for their native town which all Cambridge
residents feel.

c.36.9

Thursday 17th June

1979

Plans to demolish the old Cambridge electricity generating station and build homes
and a walkway on its prime riverside site have been submitted by St John’s College.
It generated electricity for more than 70 years but in 1968 the Central Electricity
Generating Board decided not to renew their lease. An earlier proposal to turn the
building into a concert hall came to nothing and now the station and an adjoining
Dutch house are derelict. The 31 residential units proposed would provide small
flats and family accommodation and not be confined to members of the college.

c.24.6

1954

The usual crowd of Saturday shoppers saw a colourful poster parade through the
centre of Cambridge with some 15 people carrying posters bearing the slogans ‘You
can ban the H-bomb – public protest counts’ and ‘Make the powers agree to ban the
H-bomb – sign the national protest’. The petition, which is supported by the
Cambridge Peace Council, seeks to demonstrate the great strength of public opinion.
More than 100 signatures were collected while the parade circled the Market Place.

c.45.8

1929

Hawkings bakery fire, Parsonage Street – CDN 11.6.29

c.34.75

1904

The Rev N.W. Shelton, vicar of Old Chesterton and his party, half-a-dozen in all,
met with an unpleasant experience at the ‘Mays’. The party, in an ordinary rowing
boat, had left the scene of the action and arrive, after the usual difficulty, at
the Pike and Eel ferry where their progress was barred for a time. During the
period of waiting a big houseboat, towed by a horse, ‘crashed’ into the boat which
it sunk and precipitated the occupants into the water. After a short period of
excitement the party, which included several ladies, were landed safely on the
houseboat, which proceeded on its course. It is an abominable shame that these
large houseboats are allowed to travel on the river when it is crowed with smaller
craft. It was going at from six to seven miles an hour and was in charge of a small
boy on a horse.
c.26.3

Friday 18th June

1979

A new town might be built on the Cambridgeshire-Essex- Hertfordshire borders within

the next 15 years if the proposed third London airport is developed at Langley or
Stansted. The only alternative would be expansion at Royston. The airport would
handle 50 million passengers a year and employ up to 50,000 people but this would
aggravate the present labour shortage of skilled workers. It would add to the
influx of tourists to Cambridge, which is already at a very high level and cause a
serious noise nuisance that would make life unpleasant for people in the Duxford
area. But on the brighter side opportunities for business and holiday flying for
residents should be greatly improved.

1954

Haverhill Town Hall Improvement Committee will be starting its most ambitious
project, the extension of a lecture room on the third floor. This will involve
added a new wing to the rear of the building at a cost of £2,000. There will also
be cloakroom facilities and a service lift from the kitchen below. Previous
improvements include the laying of a new dance floor, provision of new chairs and
stage curtains but this will be their most ambitious project so far. Much of the
money raised comes from the popularity of the dances they run.

1929

Drinking fountain on Christs Pieces – CDN 12.6.1929

c.32.3

1904

A father and son were summonsed for using lime for the purpose of taking wild birds
at Saffron Walden. Pc Fell said he saw them placing twigs with lime upon them upon
the bank under a hedge. When he approached they let linnets fly out of a cage.
Defendants said they were sparrows but he was positive they were linnets. It was a
cruel thing to take birds in that way and the father should not take his boy out
again for the purpose, but let him get his living in a respectable manner.

c.19

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

1929 STORIES NOT FULLY TYPED

Monday 21st June

1979

A Venture centre has opened at the home of the Eden Centre of Dance in City Road,
Cambridge. It houses a photographer and a potter and anyone is free to do anything
in the other rooms. Now there are plans for a café in the basement to allow people
from local streets to drop in and find out what is going on. It is an attractive
three-storey building built in the 18890s as the Cambridge Friendly Society
Institute and Working Men’s Club which hired out its rooms to a number of smaller
societies. But as they grew so they acquired their own headquarters elsewhere. The
Institute could not be wound up until the building was sold and that couldn’t take
place until the planning blight on the Kite was lifted. While it stood empty
squatters got in and caused damage.

DANCE

1954

Is Cambridge the coldest town in England? A speaker told the Co-operative Union
Congress: ‘There are more frosts in Cambridge than in any other town’.
Meteorological records from 1914 show that on average there are 62 frosts every
year compared with 51 in Aberdeen, 40 in Birmingham and 12 in Falmouth. He urged
that the domestic coal ration in East Anglia should be increased because of the
weather conditions here

c.12

1929

Drinking fountain on Christs Pieces – CDN 12.6.1929

1904

It is not often that a school attracts the attention of the burgling fraternity but
the Cambridge and County Boys’ school on Hills Road has done so. The intruders
obtained entrance by forcing open the door of a bicycle shed and got into the
school kitchen where they forced a drawer which contained money. The headmaster’s
bicycle, which was also in the kitchen, the intruders punctured by sticking a fork
into each tyre. They then made their way upstairs to the masters’ room and each
locker was plundered. In all their haul consisted of £1 16s in coppers, a corduroy
tobacco pouch with the initial ‘C’ worked upon it, a light waterproof overcoat and
a cap. Several burnt wax matches and the stump of a cigarette were left behind by
the burglars. No arrest has yet been made.

c.36.5

Tuesday 22nd June

1979

Since Christmas a succession of tipplers have staggered along laden with old wine
bottles to the Friends of the Earth bottle shop in Castle Row, Cambridge, only to
find it shut. It closed because the companies which were taking the bottles refused
to take any more but now the Glass Manufacturers Federation has started opening
‘bottle banks’. Its just a skip in which people throw their empties which are then
smashed up melted down to make new bottles. There is talk of one being set up in
Cambridge but in the meantime bottles continue to pile up unwanted outside the
Friends’ door.

1954

The staff of Messrs Joshua Taylor with their husbands and wives left Cambridge in
five coaches for Clacton-on-Sea. A halt was made at a Sudbury hotel for tastefully-
arranged refreshments and on arrival they dispersed until lunch after which Mr H.
Griffiths conveyed their appreciation to Mr J.K. Taylor, the Managing Director, for
making the happy day possible. The afternoon was spent in sampling the various
amusements and attractions before high tea was eaten with relish. The return
journey commenced at 7pm. A halt was again made at Sudbury and the party arrived
back in Cambridge, rather tired but sun-tanned, voicing the unanimous opinion: ‘A
jolly good day’

1929

Haddenham theft of motor caravan – CDN 13.6.1929

1904

One day only. The one exhibition in the world that has no counterpart: Buffalo
Bill’s Wild West and congress of Rough Riders of the World headed and personally
introduced by Col W.F. Cody, ‘Buffalo Bill’. Three special trains, 500 horses, 800
people. 100 Redskin braves including the famous warriors of the Sioux, Ogallallas,
Brutes, Uncapappas, Cheyenne and Apache tribes in Indian pastimes and war dances.
Includes the Battle of Little Big Horn, Custer’s last rally. The vast arena
illuminated at night by special electric light plants. The entire grand programme
will positively be presented twice daily (Rain or Shine). Dennis James’ Fields,
Huntingdon Road, Cambridge. Friday June 24th – Advert.

c.76

Wednesday 23rd June

1979

An East Anglian family of four buying a three-bedroom semi on a 70 per cent

mortgage with commitments including a 1100 cc car now needs an income of £6,878 a
year to maintain its lifestyle. This is £303 more than in January but is still
below the national average of £7,196, a new report suggests. A family renting a
three-bedroom council semi and with fewer commitments needs £4,286 while at the top
end a family buying a detached house with five or six bedrooms on a 60 per cent
mortgage and with a matching lifestyle needs £37,619 a year compared with a
national average of £42,135. The average council rent is £6.96 a week

1954

People living near Cambridge Gas Works have suffered long enough and the council
should take more determined action to get rid of ‘smog’, say councillors. Residents
could not open their windows without getting smoke on their bedding and furniture
and could not hang out their washing. Six years ago they had been shown elaborate
plans for future buildings that would do away with the dust and smoke. It had been
said the cause of the trouble was bad coal but even if good coal were used there
would be smoke and ash due to the old methods in use. The output of the gasworks
had doubled to eight million cubic feet and there had been no complaints recently –
but that was probably because the residents were too bogged down with soot and
grime to make any.

c.24.4

1929

St John’s church nave extension consecrated – CDN 16.6.1929

c.83
1904

See Buffalo Bill, the master exponent of horseback marksmanship in his wonderful
exhibition of shooting while riding a galloping horse. Introducing the pioneers of
the plains who tell the story of the progress in the great drama of civilisation by
pictures of border life. The stage coach ‘hold-up’. Cowboys’ ‘round-up’. Riding
wild bucking broncos. Indian war dances. Attack on the Emigrant train. The intrepid
cowboy cyclist. Imperial Japanese troupe in ancient and modern war drill. Mexican
Vanqueros. South American Gauchos. Cuban Patriots. - Advert

c.76

Thursday 24th June

1979

The battle to defeat plans for a third London airport near Cambridge has been
backed by the County Council who have asked the Government not to build in anywhere
in the southern part of the county. But if Whitehall turns down the plea and
suggests it should be built at Langley near Royston or Stansted it could cost
ratepayers a lot of money. Estimates for employing one range of specialist advisers
– the noise experts – could cost £80,000 and this could be just the tip of the
financial iceberg. It would lead to intolerable noise, massive congestion on the
roads and cause vast housing problems that would ultimately lead to the need for a
new large town. Coun Dennis Fuller said he could not think the Government was being
serious in asking for a third airport at a time when the world’s energy reserves
were in a crisis.

1954

RAF authorities are investigating reports that two parachutes were seen to appear
from a Canberra jet bomber shortly before it crashed in a sugar beet field near Six
Mile Bottom. It had taken off from Bassingbourn a few minutes before. The three
crew, who include a Royston man, have been reported as missing believed killed but
only one body has yet been found. Mystery surrounds the crash but the finding of
the aircraft’s cockpit canopy in the Melbourn area indicates it might have become
detached and been the cause of the accident. The plane hurtled into the ground in a
field half-a-mile from the railway and made a hole about 40 feet deep, the sides of
which collapsed almost burying the aircraft.

c.26.1

1929

A motor may week - CDN 15.6.1929

1904

On Friday Cambridge is to be visited by Buffalo Bill’s Wild West and Congress of

Rough Riders. Beside the usual features of the show including Indian war dances,
riding of wild bucking horses and a realistic scene of General Custer’s last battle
there will be a thrilling and daring bicycle feat of descending from a height of 85
feet and cycling through the air over a chasm of 41 feet, perhaps the most
spectacular and dangerous of all bicycle novelties.

c.76
Friday 25th June

1979

Thousands of young people have gone off to their GCE exams clutching calculators.
Suddenly these little machines have become an integral part of the school scene.
School funds cannot run to the provision of these instruments but many parents have
already bought them for their children. A couple of years ago a sophisticated
machine could well cost £25, particularly if they included a rechargeable battery.
Now it is possible to get one for a little over £10 and the new liquid crystal
visual panel takes very little power & is run off a 7½p [SEVEN AND A HALF PENCE]
battery

1954

Work at the King’s Head, Fen Ditton, has exposed an ingle nook fireplace. The inn
is some 700 years old and the landlord, Mr Fraser, intends to restore it to its
original state by removing two tons of rubble. It was probably covered in over 100
years ago. The main support is a blackened-by-smoke huge oak beam and high up in
the chimney can be seen the hooks from which hams were suspended.

1929

Cambridge names – comparisons and contrasts – CDN 15.6.1929

1904

The unique character of Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show was reflected in the
character of the audiences, immense in number which the two Cambridge performances
drew. Staid college professors, busy professional men and members of the clergy
formed not an inconsiderable number of those who watched the performance with as
much interest as the most ingenious juvenile and applauded as loudly as any. It is
not everybody who has the opportunity to seeing a cowboy in his characteristic
costume but the representation of incidents that have long since become historic
were most interesting. There is no Deadwood coach now except in Colonel Cody’ show
and pony express riding has been superseded by the trans-continental railroad and
the telegraph but he preserves the ancient method of carrying letters for the
benefit of another age. Cambridge people thoroughly appreciated the visit.

Looking Back by Mike Petty

1929 NOT TYPED

Monday 28th June

1979

Residents in Bateman Street, Cambridge fear it might be totally spoilt if a new

language centre is built. The School did an excellent job but the destruction of
the existing houses would mean a drastic change in the Victorian residential
street. They could be refurbished and make pleasant and attractive homes. Not all
were against the scheme for a modern language centre for 200 students. One was
highly critical of the character of the street as it stood and said the opening of
a new nightclub on Hills Road had a far bigger impact. If the scheme were not
approved the site might be redeveloped as a hotel

c.36.75

1954

An unsuccessful attempt was made to make the Cambridge Corn Exchange available for
roller skating during the winter months. A petition with 900 signatures had been
prepared. The people affected were between the ages of 10 and 25. In summer they
could pass their time in the evenings by swimming, cycling and other outdoor
amusements but in winter they needed the opportunity for healthy exercise as an
alternative to dances and public houses. Many had invested in skates, the cheapest
of which cost £7. But it was the only place suitable for badminton and was also
used for boxing.

1929

Cambridge names – list CDN 15.6.29

c.48

1904

A terrible fatality occurred on a farm at Catley Park, Linton where a steam

cultivator of Messrs Pamplin Bros of Cherry Hinton was at work pulling in a field.
There was a large steam traction engine at each end of the field and the great
boiler of one of them suddenly burst without the slightest warning with portions of
the engine sent flying in all directions. The driver was caught by a piece of iron
about the breast but is not seriously injured. A water cart was standing near under
the charge of a farm workman who was struck on the head and killed on the spot.
Portions of debris were found more than 200 hundreds yards away. The thick iron
boiler was broken and twisted into all shapes and little of the engine was left
intact.

c.26.48

Tuesday 29th June

1979

A few years ago the blacksmith’s craft looked to be dying. But as the last of the
old-timers retired a new generation of smiths discovered there is still plenty of
business for a good craftsmen. Bill Sargent, Lode’s village blacksmith for 60
years, is 81 and only keeps working to entertain himself, though he provides a
valuable service to the farming community. He thinks the shortage of petrol could
see farmers having to reintroduce shire horses to work the land. But 20-year-old
blacksmith Vic Saunders from Cherry Hinton says his principal trade is in wrought-
iron work such as balconies and gates. He likes the variety of work and would be
happy to shoe horses but thinks this unlikely. When Bill Sargent finally hangs up
his leather apron there will be no heir to follow him into the trade but it’s quite
possible another young blacksmith will buy the business and carry on where he
leaves off.

1954

Chippenham village school – closed because it was unsafe – has been scheduled for
repairs since the beginning of the year but no workmen has yet been there. About
500 villagers are worried about their village hall, temporarily in use by the
school, and the School Managers want to get out as it is quite inappropriate. The
problem lay with the Ancient Monuments Division of the Ministry of Works; they
preferred to have their own alterations put into operation as the school was an
ancient building. “The Ministry ought to be brought to book by dynamite, or the
school building will fall down before anything is done”, said one councillor

c.36.6

1929

Town council sensation – price of land, Milton Road – CDN 17.6.29

1904
A series of picture postcards showing the results of the fatal explosion of the
traction engine at Linton has been issued by Mr S.F. Talbot. They illustrate the
terrible force of the explosion. The heavy engine was torn in sunder as if it had
been paper and huge pieces of metal were thrown many yards. Looking at the
photographs of the wreck one can only marvel how the driver escaped with his life –
it was the driver of a water cart that was killed.

POSTCARD

Wednesday 30th June

1979

The price and availability of petrol has been in the news in the past few weeks.
Petrol rationing in the United States and Sheikh Yamani’s latest warnings on the
oil crisis shake the most complacent, North Sea oil or no. Post-budget prices are
well up and supplies fluctuate. Opening hours have been varied and a number of
petrol stations are rationing customers to five gallons. Both Tesco (Gulf) and
Sainsbury in Coldham’s Lane were charging £1.04 for four star but Hallens (BP) at
Victoria Road corner were 10p more. Holland’s in Mill Road matched Marshall’s price
of £1.07, the Newmarket Road Service Station (Phoenix), where you are served as
opposed to manning the pumps yourself, charged £1.08 and the Lolworth Service
Station was £1.12.

1954

An undergraduate who tore down a small signboard from the outside wall of the
Cambridge Daily News office and then waved it in the road to stop traffic, was
fined a total of £2 and ordered to pay 10s., the cost of replacing it. Pc D.
Murfitt said he was in St Andrews Street at 11.10 pm and saw a group of
undergraduates coming towards him. One of them was trying to stop traffic in the
centre of the road by waving a blue board. When the lad saw him he tried to conceal
the board under his gown. The undergrad wrote admitting the offence adding: “I am
afraid I behaved very foolishly. The exams were over and this was a stupid way of
letting off steam”.

1929

Litter baskets

1904
Cambridge Town Council honoured Alexander Peckover, Lord Lieutenant of
Cambridgeshire with the Freedom of the Borough in recognition of his services to
Cambridge and his munificence to Addenbrooke's Hospital and the Eastern Counties
Asylum at Colchester which has made his name a household word in the neighbourhood.
The address was enclosed in an ebony casket supplied by Messrs Cole of Market
Street on which was a silver plate. It was, said Peckover, something he would value
very highly. The casket would go down as an heirloom to his daughter.

c.35.7

Thursday 1st July

1979

The Da Silva’s puppet company is all set to move into a new home in St James’
Church, Norwich. The Godmanchester-based company wanted to use All Saints’ Church,
Cambridge, as a permanent base and theatre. “It was a bit vast but we worked out
ways to convert it” said Ray Da Silva. “But to put it frankly the city council
didn’t show much interest in supporting us. The attitude in Norwich is so
different; they welcomed us warmly and local businesses have helped with the cost
of conversion. Cambridge would have been nice to work in, but somehow things are
more traditional and slower there than in Norwich”

1954

Some villages have been ‘jumping the queue’ with main sewerage ahead of Cottenham,
a councillor claimed. They had been promised a main drainage scheme some 25 years
ago and the drains are in such a deplorable condition that nothing can be done.
Their only sanitary accommodation is an open cesspool a few feet from the kitchen
door. With all the new development sewage was the utmost priority. But there were
major problems at Lt Shelford where 47 per cent of people don’t have sinks in their
homes and this was a matter of urgency on public health grounds. Pampisford was
promised water seven years ago but the village is still not supplied & now
Whittlesford parish council has also asked why slow progress was being made there

1929

Burrells Walk evictions – CDN 18.6.29

c.23

1904

At the death of Queen Victoria, a little more than three years ago, the Mayor of
Cambridge started a subscription to provide a memorial. Plans for a substantial
improvement at the hospital had to be abandoned but they agreed to procure a bust
of the Queen from Thomas Brock. It was a magnificent work of art by one of the
leading sculptors of their generation which the Corporation would always treasure.
It would be an ornament to the Guildhall and retain an honourable position in that
building as long as it lasted and then take a more distinguished position in more
sumptuous surroundings.

c.02 # c.35.7
Friday 2nd July

1979

Milton people fear it will be turned into the ‘dustbin of Cambridge’ when large
scale industrial and housing developments take place in the city area during the
next 15 years. It will be used for everything the city council does not want in
Cambridge. Residents are determined to maintain the character of their village.
Nobody will want to go and live next door to the sewage works and the agricultural
interests will make their views felt when development is suggested.

1954

Huntingdon will probably lose one of its oldest industries with the cessation of
the brewing of beer. For more than 300 years the brewery in the High Street has
been active. Now it will stop. The score of women in the bottling department and
the men on the brewery staff will be found other employment. None of the office
staff will be affected and the off-licence premises will carry on as usual. Malting
will also be continued and the dozen lorry drivers and loaders will not be
affected. It will be used as a distribution centre for the Ely produced beers.
Throughout the century many amalgamations have taken place but in 1950 they
culminated in the combination between the Huntingdon Brewery and Messrs Hall,
Cutlack and Harlock of Ely to form the East Anglian Breweries ltd.

c.27.4

1929

Cambridge Post office talk – CDN 19.6.1929

c.27.7

1904

Cambridge Library committee referred to the recent fire on Peas Hill and the
destruction of the premises adjacent to the library. But for the skill of the fire
brigade the reading room must have been destroyed and the contents lost. The
accumulation of books, pictures and scarce literature could never be replaced. Now
the old dilapidated buildings should be cleared away and a more appropriate
building erected. Next year they would celebrate the jubilee of the opening of the
library and the appointment of Mr Pink as Librarian. The Library Association should
be invited to hold their annual meeting at Cambridge, free of charge.

c.34.75 # c.44.6 # c.77.4

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

1929 stories not typed

Monday 5th July

1979

There have been two interesting developments of late at Newmarket. One has seen CI
Caravans’ announcement of a £2 million scheme to build a new factory. The largest
manufacturer in its field it is the town’s single largest employer with about 600
people. They have been through several difficult years and the prime aim is to
secure the future rather than outright expansion. The other is that the Doric
Cinema has been sold for use as an entertainment centre and nightclub. It is to be
renamed the Newmarket Variety Club. Earlier plans had been for recreational use, a
showroom, a warehouse and offices. There are no empty spaces in the town but
warehouses and other industrial buildings are likely to be put up when there is
demand.

1954

Would anyone living near Addenbrooke's Hospital feel disposed to take in a nursing
mother now and again at very short notice? Miss P.D. Langley, the Head Almoner,
says that it is sometimes necessary for the children’s specialist to admit a small
baby who was still being breast-fed by the mother. If she did not live in Cambridge
she had to come and stay and they were very anxious to find a friendly and
sympathetic landlady leaving nearby who would be remunerated at a reasonable rate.
The doctors feel it is much better for such mothers to live outside the hospital
rather THAN inside while they are anxious about a sick baby.

c.21.2

1929

Tree planting at West Wratting – CDN 24.6.1929

1904

The inquiry into the Linton traction engine boiler explosion heard from Elijah
Pamplin the proprietor of the Cherry Hinton firm. They had purchased the engine in
1895 from the Oxford Steam Plough Company and it was not new then. It had been
thoroughly overhauled and was repaired each winter. He had inspected the inside of
the boiler himself and no new plates were needed. It was doing ordinary work and
the steam gauges had indicated 120 lbs pressure. The bracket which supported the
winding drum had been torn away from the boiler but he could not say whether it had
burst at this place. The firm had done everything possible to prevent danger or
injury. The jury reached a verdict of accidental death. A formal Board of Trade
investigation will be held.

c.26.48

Tuesday 6th July

1979

A technological revolution is taking place in the electronics industry caused by

microelectronics and the tiny devices placed on what has become known as the
silicon chip. Cambridge is at the heart of this revolution and the University has
reared many of the pioneers. It started in the 1950s when the Engineering
Department started to put together the first scanning electron microscope. The
transistor was superseding the bulky valve but it still had to be soldered into the
circuit. As more and more components were added the miniaturisation began and new
techniques were developed by researchers at Cambridge Instruments using the
electron beam machines

COMPUTERS
1954

The old-established department store of Laurie and McConnal of Fitzroy Street,

Cambridge has been purchased by the London firm of Shirley Bros, but they say the
public will not notice the changes. The store was opened by Mr James Laurie and in
recognition of advice given by his friend Mr McConnal he decided to use both names
as a trading title, though only members of the Laurie family actually held shares.
It prospered as an ironmonger’s shop but following a major fire in 1903 was rebuilt
as one of the biggest departmental stores in East Anglia, increasing its scope to
included almost everything for the home and garden.

c.27.2

1929

Visit of Sultan of Zanzibar – CDN 25.6.1929

c.02 # c.39

1904

The Midsummer Fair brought its usual amusements but the cinematograph held
undisputed sway: it is the autocrat which swallows hundreds of ‘tuppences’ and is
always ready for more. It was patronised liberally and showed some very excellent
representations of national and local life. War pictures form no inconsiderable
part of the programme and among the turns of local interest were views of the May
Races and the boiler explosion at Linton. In other respects it was much as other
times. A good deal of space was occupied by stalls filled with souvenirs of gaudy
hue, swing boats, coconut shies, vending machines of more or less domestic utility
and a long array of refreshment saloons.

c.27.3

Wednesday 7th July

1979

The first three factories to be built in a town by the Council for Small Industries
in Rural Areas have been opened in Wisbech. They will be followed by others at
Littleport, Ramsey, Chatteris and March. The policy had been to build them in truly
rural areas but they decided to give special help to small towns where job
opportunities were very limited. MP Clement Freud said it is helping people with
cottage industries to take a stride forward; they cannot afford the overheads of a
modern and efficient factory but this offers them units at a very good rent and
will help them grow.

1954

South Cambs RDC proposed a development which would change the face of the old-world
village of Litlington, They want to develop a nine-acre ex RAF Communal Site as a
permanent housing site and replace hutments which are classed as sub-standard
accommodation by 50 non-traditional homes, mainly to rehouse the ‘squatters’. The
site ia an eyesore but it has sewers, water pipes and foundations. Building would
be fast and easy and the houses would be finished in about six months. But it is
outside the village area, there were alternative sites and the land was needed for
smallholders after clearance. It would destroy the character of the village and
clash with the landscape.
1929

James Merry, lifesaver, Ely river man CDN 26.6.1929

1904

Now Midsummer Fair is over again it is appropriate to consider how much the
carnival costs Cambridge. The switchback, roundabout and show proprietors were
taking money as quickly as they could. One machine carried an average of 60 persons
and as it travelled for a minute at intervals of half a minute the takings must
have averaged £10 an hour, multiplied by five to give the total for one evening.
The thirteen coconut shies were in charge of impulsive maidens whose invitation,
“Ave a shy, my dear” must have been almost irresistible. There were 20 drinking
booths on Horse Fair Day when an immense amount of drink was consumed. Adding it
all together it comes to £645 an evening to say nothing of the amount expended
during the afternoons

c.27.3

Thursday 8th July

1979

Eltisley parish church may have to borrow to meet repair bills for its spire unless
a government grant arrives soon. The total cost of the repair is £6,200 but the
Department of the Environment is taking a long time to pay out its half of the
bill. The Parochial Church Council has undertaken furious fund raising but the
money would not last very long when they have to pay contractors expenses.
Architects said the spire was in an appalling state in places and it was possible
to put a hand between some of the stones.

1954

Tom Abbott is one of the best-known heel and toe walking experts in Cambridgeshire.
He started in 1925 when he saw an advert about the Cambridge Walking Club seven-
mile road walk and by 1937 he held every walking record in the county – and still
does. He has also won 30 championship medals. There was the E.H. Church Handicap
Cup, a two-mile race in the Cambridge Railway Orphans Sports – he won it over a
dozen times - the Royston to Cambridge road race held annually on Boxing Day, the
ten-mile course along Newmarket Road and inter-county meetings without number.
During the last war Army service races were won in Belgium and the Shetland Isles.
Now he helps youngsters of the Coleridge Athletic Club.

c.38 : walking

1929

Talkies to start in Cambridge August – Central Cinema – CDN 28.6.1929

c.76.9

1904

Sir – why was it necessary to have 20 drinking booths at Midsummer Fair? No

reasonable person can contend they were all required. The licences have to be
applied for and the magistrates appear to be too faint-hearted to deny one
applicant what they grant to another. I am concerned that either through their
negligence or the apathy of temperance people the annual pleasure fair should
become a drinking debauch. There was practically a whole street of drinking
saloons. Apart from their presence being a strong incentive to a serious amount of
unnecessary drinking this is unfair to the public houses in the vicinity who would
have done an increased trade in a legitimate way for a few days. - Disappointed

c.27.3 # c.27.4

Friday 9th July

1979

Cambridgeshire County Council has decided to establish its permanent headquarters

at the Shire Hall. The council set up it ‘temporary’ headquarters at Cambridge
following local government reorganisation more than five years ago but decided to
move eventually to the Hinchingbrooke estate at Huntingdon. Now they have changed
their minds: Huntingdon is not scheduled as a major centre of the future while
Cambridge is a regional centre of public administration and an internationally-
known city. It is a natural magnet for staff and to move would have a seriously
demoralising effect. The Shire Hall site is large enough for all their
administrative needs and officers pointed out the high cost of building at a time
when the council was already in financial difficulties. Now the land reserved for
the new office complex is to be sold.

c.35.1

1954

Real American softball came to Cambridge Football Club ground when the US Air Force
Hospital Wimpole Park beat a team from USAF Molesworth entirely against the
formbook. But for British spectators the game was a succession of shocks. They saw
an umpire hustled and pushed by players disputing a decision, two players
somersaulting as they tried to catch a ball and some magnificent hits and catches
that made it look like cricket. The game seems to be a glorified rounders akin to
baseball. There was ‘strike one’, ‘ball one’, ‘blunt’ and a host of other
expressions which are difficult to explain but easy to follow on the diamond-shaped
field before the victorious team had notched up their win and were cheered again
and again.

c.38 : softball

1929

St Neots big blaze – CDN 28.6.1929

1904

St Andrew the Great church, Cambridge, has been thoroughly renovated and the
congregation sat within spotless walls, under a roof which afforded no resting
place for the busy manufacturer of webs and in an atmosphere suggestive of spring
cleaning. The dignified furniture shines anew, the walls are nicely painted and
distempered, the windows (coloured and plain) admit the full quota of light. Gas
has given way to electric light and there is a sermon switch which will turn off
the current from two-thirds of the lights. The organ has been removed from the west
gallery and will be placed on the south side of the choir, at present it is in
London and a harmonium sufficed for the Sunday services.

c.83.01
Looking Back, by Mike Petty

1929 NOT TYPED

Monday 12th July

1979

Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother officially opened Wimpole Hall, the 17th-century
mansion left to the National Trust three years ago. She paid tribute Mrs Elsie
Bainbridge and her husband who had started restoration work when they acquired the
house in 1936. Amongst the guests were Albert Mayo and his wife who worked on the
estate for 62 years. “I did farm repairs and anything in the house and one of the
hardest jobs was beeswaxing the floors. Mrs Bainbridge was very nice and if
anything went wrong she always send for me”, he said. He also recalled a visit by
Queen Mary when she was Queen Mother.

c.61.7

1954

The Robin Fellowship is now 25 years old. It was started as the children’s
organisation of the ‘Cambridge Independent Press and Chronicle’ and was carried on
for many years by Mr Morley Stuart whose enthusiasm made it an instant success; in
the first six months 4,300 children were enrolled. It endowed the Robin Cot at
Addenbrooke's Hospital – the result of a stream of coins that has flowed every
since into the coffers of the Fund which has paid out over £4,800 to scores of
different charities and good causes. The first member was Sybil Rayner of Cherry
Hinton Road as it was her who suggested the name; there are now 17,026.

c.04

1929

Linton cottage hospital discussed – CDN 22.6.1929 - Stretham garden fete

c.21.4

1904

An inquiry into the proposed closure of Mill Road cemetery, Cambridge heard
objections from several parishes. The All Saints portion would not be absolutely
full for another 23 years and was as sanitary as any other. There were 142 spaces
available for Holy Sepulchre and 120 for St Paul’s parish which was strongly
opposed to closure. The Rev E.C. Pearce of St Bene’t’s said there were 60 vaults
and brick graves likely to be used again; he had never seen remains exposed when a
new grave had been made. At St Edward’s there had been 47 interments in the last 10
years, 23 of which were not parishioners and had no right to burial in the ground &
there was space for another 120 graves. But St Michael’s parish only had space for
50

c.21.2

Tuesday 13th July

1979

Margaret Thatcher, Britain’s scientist Prime Minister, came to Cambridge to see

scientific industry at work and was promptly taken over by children from Bar Hill
Primary School who had been given a morning off to see her. She talked to them for
ten minutes then got on with the business of the day, meeting Mike Harrison,
managing director of H.H. Electronics. The company employs more than 300 people
designing and selling audio electronic sound equipment. Later Mrs Thatcher visited
Laser-Scan, another company using chip technology

c.02

1954

Len Tibbs of Gt Shelford is well-known as a pianist and comedian and has now been
invited to appear at London’s Windmill Theatre where he will present the
characterisations which have delighted audiences locally. He started his career as
a comedian during the war, helping out with troop shows, and has appeared in most
parts of the Easter Counties. Unbeknown to him his work was drawn to the attention
of Mr Van Damm and he was surprised to receive an invitation to attend an audition.
He has also accepted the offer to appear on Television’s variety show ‘Show Case’

c.76

1929

Hauxton church maintenance, county councillor gaoled – CDN 1.7.1929

c.82.01

1904

Gt Wilbraham Baptist chapel was re-opened for worship. The building, which as far
from an imposing appearance, has greatly benefited by the process of renovation and
the interior now looks clean and tidy. The walls have been effectively treated with
pale blue and the seats nicely varnished by members of the Village Preachers
Association who took it over ten years ago. The place then was more like a prison
than anything else. It was very old and dilapidated, there were little windows and
a deep gallery and the seats were anything but comfortable.

c.82.05

Wednesday 14th July

1979

Cambridge is a scientific and industrial gold mine where the brains and talents of
those in the university can be harnessed and developed by industry so that new
products can be made and new jobs created, said Margaret Thatcher. At Laser-Scan
she saw techniques developed to digitise maps using laser beams and computers. She
was delighted to be told that one system they used was called ‘Maggie’ for short.
“So it should be if it’s a scientific system”, she said. But when told it was a
dump file she quipped “Oh no, you can’t do that to me – you’d better find another
name for it”

c.27.1

1954
Highfields is a new hamlet in the valley but planners have banned all permanent
developments and people living in shacks have been unable to build anything better.
They wanted Highfield to be allowed to rot and all the people drift away. Now an
Association has been formed to stop the breaking up of what is growing into a
virile and active community and they would continue the five-year battle to build
up this new village, which is the main residential area of Caldecote. The R.D.C.
realise the village needed homes and it would be a simple matter to approve them;
but large-scale development would be followed by serious drainage problems. The
erection of council houses was very expensive and it was more economical to group
together those required by two or three villages, as at Bourn.

1929

Hauxton church dispute – questions raised in parliament – CDN 2.7.1929

c.82.01
1904

Young people in Linton are being driven out of the village by their inability to
secure a house to live in. But the prospect of doing anything is very shadowy
indeed; the greater part of the land is in the possession of two owners neither of
whom seem disposed to do much. Now the R.D.C. proposes to erect ten cottages to be
rented for half-a-crown a week. This would relieve pressure on the present
accommodation which is overcrowded to a degree few people would believe. Some of
the houses are like rabbit hutches and 16-year-old boys and girls had to sleep in
the same room together. At least ten cottages were so unsanitary they were unfit
for human habitation but to condemn them would only intensify the problem.

c.23

Thursday 15th July

1979

The present Landbeach post office will close when the village postmistress, Miss
Doris Mitham, retires. The sub post office, which occupies a tiny room at the back
of her large High Street home, has been in the family for 36 years. She took over
the running of it from her mother seven years ago and before that was the village
post woman, delivering letters twice daily. The new post office will be at Mrs
Phyllis McFarlane’s shop opposite a grocery store and Mr Peter Hall will become the
new postmaster having been ‘dragooned’ into applying by villagers who saw the shop
as the ideal spot.

1954

Major E.A.H. Legge-Bourke, Conservative M.P. for the Isle of Ely, took the dramatic
step of resigning from the Conservative Party as a protest against the Government’s
policy over Egypt and the withdrawal of troops from the Suez Canal Zone. His action
is quite unexpected and it is not thought others will follow his example. But Major
Legge-Bourke, who is tall, slim and upright with auburn-tinged hair and moustache,
says he intends sitting as an Independent Conservative member in the House of
Commons.

c.33

1929

Hauxton church – Stevens released

c.82.01

1904

For a week s a sturgeon estimated from eight to 15 feet has disported itself at
Over Staunch and successfully resisted all efforts at capture. Vicious lunges with
iron-headed quants or poles have failed to reach it, rifle shots have gone astray
and a supply of harpoons have proved of no avail. Meanwhile visitors to the staunch
are increasing in number. A doctor was making his way when his boat behaved in a
most unaccountable way. It tilted and rolled and when the startled occupant saw it
was a huge fish which had caused the commotion there was no more pleasure in
boating that day.

c.38 : fishing

Friday 16th July

1979

Cambridge’s oldest taxi driver Ernie Zarattini has taken his final fare – aged 80.
And he has disclosed some of the cheeky goings-on he has witness during 39 years as
a cab driver. On one occasion he picked up a couple who wanted to go to Regent
Street. “Suddenly I saw them misconducting themselves on the floor of the cab. I
said ‘Not for half-a-crown you don’t’ and flung them out”, he said. Fares used to
be eight pence – old money – for the first mile and tuppence-a-mile after that, but
now customers have to pay 45p for the first three-quarters of a mile and 25p for
every one-sixth of a mile after that.

c.26.48

1954

The Post Office is to experiment with pedestrian-controlled electric trucks for its
parcel delivery service to determine whether they can be operated economically in
areas where traffic conditions make the use of motor vans rather difficult. The
trucks have a normal speed of 3½ [THREE –AND-A-HALF] mph on the level. Cambridge is
one of the first provincial towns to have them.

c.27.7

1929

Hauxton church – threatening letters – CDN 8.7.1929+

c.82.01

1904

Mr F.B. Kelly has retired as District Manager of the Great Northern Railway at
Cambridge after 55 years service. He began at Lincoln when the railway began to
compete with a boat that used to ply between Lincoln and Boston. Instead of seeking
to attract custom by providing a more comfortable means of travelling they decided
that anything cheap, though nasty, would do. They provided fourth-class carriages
which had neither seats nor covering and packed them in like so many sheep. He also
recalls the better type of carriage that was modelled on the stage coach and
remembers how before the introduction of vans luggage used to be piled on the top
of the carriages and covered over with a sheet.
c.26.2

Looking Back by Mike Petty

1929 NOT TYPED

Monday 19th July

1979

The fate of the ancient waterways known as lodes in the Burwell area are hanging in
the balance. Conservationists argue they are sanctuaries for wild life and a quiet
beauty spot in the flat, arable landscape. They are important for anglers, boaters
and ramblers. But water seeps through the banks and there is a danger of them
collapsing completely, causing severe flooding. There was an outcry when Great Ouse
River Division proposed to bulldoze them to make way for a ground drainage system.
Now the Ministry of Agriculture may pay towards drainage if local councils can also
fund it. But they say they have no money.

c.29.4

1954

Members of the Band of Hope Union visited the East Anglian Egg Packing Station at
Soham which collects eggs from producers over a large area, graded them for quality
and distributed them to retailers. The station had started with very little money
but by 1953 had a turnover of a third of a million pounds and handled over 11
million eggs. They watched skilled inspectors checking every egg under artificial
light, modern machines grading them and stamping each with the official number and
saw the electric incubators which can turn out 2,500 chicks a week

1929

Brunswick School accommodation problem – CDN 3.7.1929

c.36.5

1904

The King visited Newmarket Workhouse and made a tour of the building which has been
recently reconstructed at a cost of £23,000. When in the kitchen he remarked upon
the superiority of that room over the one in existence when he previously visited
as Prince of Wales in 1895. He threw out suggestions of a practical nature, notably
that the iron building used as an inspection ward should be covered with creepers
and that the slab over a stove in one of the rooms should be rounded off, his
Majesty having caught his foot against the corner whilst passing. A stable lad, an
infirmary patient, came in for some attention and at the King’s request he played a
selection on his mandolin.

c.02 # c.32.9

Tuesday 20th July

1979

Cambridge’s first punt restaurant is now in business serving tourists with lunches,
strawberries and cream teas and cocktails by candlelight. The venture has been
launched by the Cambridge undergraduate son of the Headmaster of Eton. For a mere
£3 a head up to eight people can be accommodated for a full strawberry tea to the
accompaniment of pre-war music from a pre-war wind-up gramophone. A wide-ranging
lunch menu costs £6 and later on as the sun dips behind the University Library
there is candlelight for a service of fruit cocktails and cheese. The restaurant
comprises two punts lashed together.

c.26.3

1954

The Minister’s decision on the County Development Plan has been announced. The only
major Cambridge items not approved are the site of the bus station between Christ’s
college & Emmanuel and the proposed development for residential purposes of the
smallholding land north of Arbury Road. All the central area road proposals
including the ‘spine relief road’, the new Guildhall Street and a cross-town route
joining Emmanuel Street with Downing Street have been approved together with the
new Chesterton Bridge over the Cam near Walnut Tree Avenue, a multi-storey car park
in Corn Exchange Street and a subway at the railway station.

c.49.4

1929

Armed burglar Newmarket – butler threatened – CDN 4.7.1929

1904

Cambridge New Theatre had a poor year. The depression affected the well-to-do
people who sent their sons up to University and naturally young men were warned not
to be extravagant about his amusement. The theatre being the chief amusement it was
the first thing the undergraduate cut off. The New Theatre endeavoured to spend as
much money as possible with local tradesmen but they went to London for their
amusements, which was very hard lines. Several companies cancelled their
engagements but good companies with people like Ellen Terry had been unable to
half-fill the theatre which spoke very badly for the taste of the Cambridge
audience.

c.76

Wednesday 21st July

1979

The dawn-to-dusk routine of working on a farm 60 years ago was recalled by a

Harston man, Alfred Stittle. When he joined the Hays family farm it was a slower
pace of life. “I started as a lad earning 6d a day and did thistling and
harvesting. Then my wages went up to 29s 3d when I became responsible for looking
after the horses. There was a lot of tiring, back-aching work and the hours were
long. Now the machines have taken over and we don’t have the hard physical side. We
get a lot more money but there isn’t the same friendliness or contentment”, he
said.

c.22

1954
The Minister has approved a western by-pass for Cambridge using the northern leg of
Storeys Way and a link from Barton Road through Chaucer Road to Trumpington Road.
There will be a road from the end of Brooklands Avenue across the railway sidings
and joining Station Road opposite the end of Tenison Road. This means it will be
possible eventually to have a complete ring road near the centre of the city.

c.49.62

1929

More bridges in Isle of Ely needing reconstruction than anywhere else – CDN
13.7.1929

c.44.75

1904

Few realise the lavish expenditure on the May Balls held in Cambridge Corn
Exchange. After the corn merchants have vacated the building on the Saturday
evening a small army of workmen take possession. They labour until midnight when
the advent of the Sabbath and the strict rules governing municipal buildings shut
them out for 24 hours. With the first hour of Monday morning they re-enter and by
eight that evening the place is transformed into an artistic ballroom through which
not a vestige of the prosaic Corn Exchange is seen. What of the cost? There is not
less than £2,000 worth of goods in the ball room; add to that the cost of utilising
the Guildhall as a supper room and include the china and plates for the supper and
you have a total of some thousands of pounds to provide our moneyed visitors with
an evening’s entertainment.

c.36.9
Thursday 22nd July

1979

At Ely cattle market the fat pigs are sold at 10 am, then live poultry followed by
dressed poultry and produce, furniture and dead stock and more furniture. Sale by
auction is a curious business, a jolly bantering and time-consuming affair. The
crowd are mainly old hands, but that doesn’t guarantee rock-bottom prices. Quite
often they went above prices in the nearby general market. On occasions this was
loudly pointed out by a member of the audience who nevertheless appeared to be
tolerated as an unavoidable part of the proceedings and often started the bidding,
albeit well below the auctioneer’s asking price. Bidding is usually done on the
basis of the price per single cabbage or pound of strawberries and there is no
obligation to take the lot. Most people take two or three items and bidding starts
again for the rest.

c.27.3

1954

Planners have approved a new development between St Andrew’s Street and Emmanuel
New Court, Cambridge. There will be shops on the ground floor and offices above and
the building will be of a high architectural standard in keeping with its position
in the centre of the city. Provision must be made for a widening of Emmanuel Street
and be sited to allow for a free circulation of the shopping traffic generated. Car
parking facilities are advocated, either by way of a basement or by access to a
space on the roof.

c.49.67
1929

Dant’s ferry footbridge and bicycles – CDN 13.7.1929

c.44.7

1904

Cottenham is proud of its sturdy boys but would much rather that the youths should
demonstrate the strength of their arms on other material than the school windows.
Recently nearly 40 panes of glass were discovered to be smashed. There had been a
stone-throwing competition among the lads whose correctness of aim did them more
credit than their disregard for public property. The names of some of the culprits
are known but fines would punish the parents rather than the boys. A stout
application of the birch, or homely cane, would probably fulfil the requirements of
the case.

Friday 23rd July

1979

A grocery salesman, Derek Thomson, went on his rounds in the heart of Cambridge by
punt to try and beat the traffic problem. His firm supplies many of the colleges
and he thinks the river is the quickest and cheapest way of servicing them. He set
off from Silver Street and was met at Queens’ by their chef, Mr Tony Tingey; then
at King’s Hugh McCann climbed down almost to water level to meet him. But,
distracted by passing tourists Mr Thomson all but caught him a hefty blow to the
head with his punt pole. He then glided on towards Clare, the Bridge of Sighs and
Magdalene. “It is the obvious way to get around a lot of colleges quickly”, he
said. But the Queens’ chef commented: “the way he’s handling the pole he’d do
better with a motor boat”

c.26.3

1954

The attention of county planners has been drawn to a press report setting out
proposals by the British Transport Commission to establish a new railway depot at
Chesterton. At no time have they given any indication of these intentions; indeed
the council has pressed for the reduction of railway activities on this site. It is
clear that the arrangements are so far advanced that there is no likelihood of them
being held up or abandoned at this late stage. When completed the depot will
require a large additional labour force, which is clearly in contradiction to the
agreed industrial policy for Cambridge. Future schemes should be discussed well in
advance with the planners and the matter will be placed in the hands of local
Members of Parliament.

c.26.2

1929

Haslingfield fire – phone call delayed by Post Office – CDN 15.7.1929

1904
The bandstand erected at Newmarket in commemoration of the coronation of King
Edward VII was opened. Considerable difficulties had been experienced with regard
to the site but with the consent of the Jockey Club it was erected on the Town
Corner of the Severals. It is in the usual style and painted white relieved with
the King’s racing colours of red and blue. It was decorated with small flags and
illuminated when darkness came on by means of electric lights, a number of the
globes of which pore portraits of the King and Queen.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

1929 NOT TYPED

Monday 26th July

1979

Not everyone in Cambridge sees Mount Pleasant House but to those who use Huntingdon
Road this new office block bulks very large indeed. The initial scheme was
described as “Excessively bulky, un-neighbourly, inconsiderate of adjoining owners
and occupiers, out of scale with its surroundings and over-dominant in the local
scene’ by the Environment Minister but his decision to reject it was reversed at a
subsequent inquiry. There will be 16 trees round the main building together with a
number of shrubs but it will always look what it is – 50,000 square feet of office
space.

c.49.6

1954

Not since the 14th-century has Isleham Priory Church heard such music as that sung
during a unique service. The Priory, which is only used for the week in the year in
which St Margaret’s day falls, was illuminated by candles. There were over 100
people present as 50 servers from around the area walked in procession from the
Parish Church singing the hymn ‘O Son of God goes forth to war’. The other music,
called plainsong, was that used regularly at the Priory before it was closed in
1325. Next Sunday Parish Communion will be held, probably the first occasion on
which the Holy Eucharist will have been celebrated there since the suppression of
the Priory.

1929

Guildhall extension – co-operation with county? CDN 15.7.1929

c.35.7

1904

Isleham band furnishes a striking example of what can be accomplished by steady and
determined work. It was only formed a year ago but has become an important and
appreciated institution. Its members have had to work hand and faced their first
public performance on the occasion of the Harvest Festival last October with
trepidation. Recently they have given short open-air sacred concerts on the green
on Sunday evenings after the services at the various places of worship. It is to be
hoped that their success will stir up the inhabitants of other villages.

Tuesday 27th July

1979

A money-saving decision taken more than a year ago looks like paying off much more
than anyone expected – and all because of the oil crisis. Councillors decided to
invest in an electrically –driven mobile library, the first of its kind in the
country, to serve parts of Cambridge which were affected when the old Shire Hall
library was closed down for economy reasons. It cost £2,000 more than a petrol-
driven version but will bring big savings in operating costs. If the experiment is
a success more will be bought to replace the ageing and expensive petrol-driven
fleet.

c.77.7

1954

Various Newport people gave evidence at the inquiry into a footpath crossing the
railway line. Mr George Poulter who had lived in the village since 1892 said he had
been along the path with a horse and cart many times and never found the railway
gates locked. Joseph Moule, 73, said it used to be a noted walk for parents and
children while George Webb, 77, said lots of people used the path. But Mrs Myrtle
Gentry said she had been stopped in 1940 and told it was not a public footpath. It
was clearly marked on the OS map but the owner of a bungalow and the railway
authorities had raised objections.

1929

Foxton level crossing; proposed road Prickwillow to Isleham – CDN 17.7.29

1904

The Waterbeach Passive Resistance sale was entirely devoid of the buffoonery that
characterised similar events in Cambridge. It was the outcome of the refusal of Mr
Mark Wyatt and his sons, of Chittering, to pay the Education rate. The amount of
the distraint was £4 for which two coombs of corn was seized. This was conveyed to
the village green and sold by auction to the highest bidder. The proceedings
attracted a good many villagers and the singing of the hymn ‘Oh God our help in
ages past’ preceded the sale. Mr Wyatt was a quiet, peaceable, law abiding and god-
fearing man. He had been taken into a police court, charged with violating the law,
his goods had been seized by force and sold publicly in order that the outraged
majesty of the law should be satisfied.

c.33
Wednesday 28th July

1979

Headmaster Ted Austin spent all last Saturday gardening at his Over home – the
first Saturday this year he’s had free from his voluntary work. He has been a
member of the English Schools Football Association’s ruling body for eight years
and is now its Chairman. Headmaster at Stetchworth School for the past 12 years and
a teacher since before the war, Austin knows he’s in for a hectic 12 months. He
will have to preside over two Wembley internationals for the English Schools team
matches in Holland and West Germany, two coaching courses and 10 international
coaching weekends. “You’d better ask my wife how much time it takes up – it does
involve a tremendous amount of work”, he said.

1954
Membership of the Cambridgeshire Local History Council has increased, attendance at
meetings and excursions is higher than ever & the Bulletin had been published more
or less on time, but there is still much to do. Local History groups in Sawston and
Fulbourn are flourishing but there are large areas of the county that are sadly
undeveloped as far as local history is concerned. They needed more village
correspondents and anybody with old pictures of their village should notify them.
There would be a room built at the Shire Hall in the future for the archives and it
would be a good thing to get the interest of school children.

1929

Hadstock water supply; Newmarket houses or allotments? CDN 18.7.29

1904

A small private fishery near Ely has become infested with otters. They afford no
sport as they cannot be hunted by dogs, to track them in reeds and water is
impossible, and they are too cunning to be outwitted in any way. As fish are
seriously thinned the holder of the fishery placed himself in a likely spot with a
gun. At dusk there was a great deal of crashing among the reeds and two or three
large animals began chasing each other in the water. More joined and there was a
general plunging and diving all round. Kneeling in the boat the fisherman found one
brute with a widely distended mouth close to his elbow, the gleam of the teeth was
quite ferocious. That such shy animals should show signs of attacking can only be
accounted for by the mating season.

Thursday 29th July

1979

It is the start of an intensive six-week season at the Arbury Adventure Playground.

Between 150 and 300 children will daily pour into the enclosure off Wagstaff Close.
It is laid out like an outpost of the US Cavalry after the Indians have been. There
is a 10-foot-high perimeter stockade, big main gates and a high watch-tower in the
middle. In one corner is the livestock, all snuffling, clucking and crowing. On
another is ‘Venus’ an old landing craft looking rather washed up and nearer the
middle a large battered playhut. It is not for the fastidious or tidy-minded but it
is an excellent place to light fires, cook sausages and potatoes and melt down old
cola cans into aluminium ingots.

c.37.9

1954

City planners discussed 13 acres of land to the east of Milton Road which had been
earmarked to meet the needs of industrial concerns whose existing premises were
incapable of expansion or intended for residential use. The land, owned by Trinity
Hall, was on the market in 1951 but the council could not acquire it at the time.
It was bought by Mr Stokes but he was refused permission for it to be used for
industrial purposes. The council envisaged that two or three acres should remain in
his ownership but that they should acquire the remainder and divide it into plots
for sale or lease to industrialists

c.49.64

1929

Purchasing land between Histon Road and Frenches Road – Victoria Road – discussed
CDN 19.7.29

c.49.4

1904

Shopkeepers are urged to ensure that their sun blinds are sufficiently high. Two
well-dressed ladies were passing along the footpath of a certain Cambridge
thoroughfare and were shielding themselves from the glare of the sun beneath a
parasol, when suddenly the sunshade was dragged from the lady’s hand, and came in
contact with the other lady’s hat, with the result that the head gear was torn with
considerable force from its resting place and fell upon the pavement. The most
unfortunate part of the whole affair was that not only the hat but the hair became
enfastened and fell at the wearer’s feet. The lady looked what most men would have
said.

c.27.2 # WOMEN

Friday 30th July

1979

Shocked parishioners at Tilty near Thaxted have been told they must come up with
extra money if the church’s 14th-century window is to be saved. An appeal was
launched last year when it was discovered that the Tudor rose tracery on top of the
Minster clear glass window was in danger of crashing down because the upright stone
mullions were bending inwards. But the estimate for the work has almost doubled
overnight after a close inspection revealed that the damage was worse than thought.
The 420 parishioners are emotionally and financially exhausted but have just a week
to raise an extra £10,000

1954

An unknown little boy was the first person to give the alarm about a blaze at
Rich’s car-breaking yard in Coldham’s Lane, Cherry Hinton. Burned stock included 10
cars, approximately 200 wheels complete with tyres, four steel motor can
containers, a brick and asbestos carbide storage shed and a paraffin tanker.
Luckily no petrol was stored at the yard. Flames leapt up as high as the houses
and there was so much smoke it looked like a burning oil well on the films. Car
batteries exploded as hundreds of people watched the inferno. Firemen had the blaze
under control after an hour but it started again and they had to be re-called.

c.26.48 # c.34.75

1929

Burrells Walk evictions; Orwell scarlet fever CDN 20.7.29

1904

Numbers of people who saw a lady at Coe Fen on Sunday evening with nothing on her
head but a large quantity of woman’s crowning glory, imagined her to be one of the
enthusiastic hygienic faddists known as the hatless brigade. Her courageous
defiance of custom aroused much admiration inspired by her profuse and glistening
golden locks. The belief that the new custom of going hatless had found followers
is however groundless. The prosaic explanation is that lady had left a boat, in
which her headgear was, and walked along the Coe Fen path to the bridge to avoid
passing through the bathing place.
WOMEN

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

1929 NOT TYPED

Monday 2nd August

1979

Cambridgeshire county council took a step towards the transport of the future when
it brought into service the country’s first electric mobile library. One of the
largest electric road vehicles to go into commercial service, it was built by
Hyrotechnick of Toft and is based on an electric travelling shop which has been
successful in Holland. It is powered by four independent motor-drive systems on the
rear wheels and has a speed of 12½ [TWELVE AND A HALF] miles an hour, suitable for
its task in the city. A second one on order will be faster with a speed of around
40 mph

c.77.7

1954

The Ministry of Housing have overruled the RDC and allowed the erection of a
dwelling house on land at Main Street, Highfields, Caldecote. This has opened up a
new page in history for a number of residents anxious to improve their properties.
They had acquired smallholdings on which they wished to build a house in which to
live. It was a community which could not just be wiped off the map and they would
do what they could to develop the place. The making up of the back road would
enable frontagers to sell off plots for development.

1929

Caxton pageant – CDN 20.7.1929

c.76

1904

The quietude of Ely was rudely disturbed by news of a shocking tragedy enacted on
Back Hill, one of the most peaceful parts of the old City. A bricklayer’s labourer
twice shot at his neighbour with a double-barrelled gun, the bullets going through
her left breast and causing such deadly wounds that she shortly afterwards expired.
He then coolly walked into his own house and shot himself through the head. The
murder caused the greatest sensation, news spread with rapidity to all parts and
the place of the ghastly murder, the humble home of a cottager, became the scene of
the greatest excitement Ely has known for years, particularly evinced by the
arrival on the scene of several photographers.

c.34.6

Tuesday 3rd August

1979

The great Cambridge greenfly plague is now so serious that a dramatic change in the
weather is needed if it is to be held at bay. The ferocity of the invasion has
turned shop fronts green with aphid slime. Motorists are battling hard as swarms of
flies cause clouded windscreens while at home all doors and windows have to be
firmly closed despite the heat. It is now getting difficult to hold conversations
outside without swallowing mouthfuls of greenflies and all citizens are being
advised to go to the nearest swimming pool, retire to the bar or simply stay
indoors. Experts say that ladybirds, their natural foes, were decimated in the last
harsh winter and there is no alternative other than a good downpour or cooler
weather.

c.19

1954

Cambridge councillors discussed the impact of any explosion of a hydrogen bomb on

the city. There would be an area of total destruction three miles immediately below
the bomb burst with a radius of ten miles of lesser destruction. Civil Defence was
a misnomer: they would not seek to construct a deep shelter to provide protection
for the people of Cambridge in the event of war; it was not ‘protection’ but
‘rescue and aftercare’. It was obvious that local telephone communication between
the Controller – if he still existed – and the locality would be useless. The only
way Cambridge would be helped was by a rescue column arriving from another part of
the country.

c.45.8

1929

New County Hall plans and tenders – SHIRE HALL CDN 22.7.1929

c.35.2

1904

Four Passive Resisters from Toft appeared before the magistrates for non-payment of
their poor rate. Joseph Worboys, a builder, said: “I am a Passive Resister, and my
father is not, or rather he does not want the bother of it”. The 1902 Education Act
was made for the benefit of one religious party and he objected to supporting a
doctrine to which he was opposed. The State did not ought to have anything to do
with the religious convictions of the people. It was a damnable Act of Parliament.
The magistrates understood and said the remedy was to get the law changed, but he
had to pay in the meantime.

c.33

Wednesday 4th August

1979

Cambridge’s most modern squash club on Histon Road already has 300 members but is
looking for another 150 to bring it up to the target envisaged by the local
businessmen who have made the £150,000 project a reality. There are four courts,
one with a glass back wall for safe viewing, a bar and large clubroom where they
intend to provide light refreshments and real ale. They also hope to provide a
variety of social functions catering for all the family and to meet the needs of
both ‘town and gown’ by providing excellent playing and social facilities.

c.38 : squash

1954
Cambridge city council attacked the County Council’s cavalier attitude over their
grandiose scheme for the replacement of the demolished Shire Hall Courts on Castle
Hill. They can no longer tolerate the attitude of a powerful section of the County
Council who seem bent on pursuing their own course with all the insensibility of a
bureaucratic bulldozer. The Government has indicated it is likely to introduce
Local Government reform and it is foolhardy to proceed with a scheme for more
office accommodation when certain functions might transfer to the City Council and
thus make the extra offices unnecessary. City residents provide 75 per cent of the
county rate and should have a fair say in any such scheme.

c.34.9

1929

No more war rally, Parker’s Piece – CDN 22.7.1929

c.45.6

1904

Residents in Cambridge were among the witnesses of a race between two balloons
which started from the Crystal Palace. The first, named the Norfolk, contained Mr
C.F. Pollock, D. Lloyd and J.T.C. Moore Brabazon and the second, the Aero Club No.1
contained the Hon C.S. Rolls, a former Cambridge man, Prof Huntingdon and Mr Frank
Butler. Mr Pollock obtained a lead of several miles by trailing – keeping very low
and trailing a rope along the ground – but this could not be done for long as a
village had to be ‘jumped’. When approaching Bottisham it was very near the ground
and a number of cyclists awaited the descent; their hopes were doomed when the
occupants threw out a quantity of ballast and ascended to a good height. A safe
landing was effected near Ely for one balloon and the second was captured by a
motor that was sent to chase it.

c.26.1

Thursday 5th August

1979

Pubs in and around Cambridge have come in for bitter criticism in a new guide
written by two undergraduates. The Rose in Rose Crescent is described as a ‘seedy
little place in a seedy little street. Gay Cambridge meets there, which says little
for their taste’. The Maypole in Park Street is described as a ‘grotty little dive
hidden rightly under the car park’, the Carpenters Arms in Victoria Road is
‘without redeeming feature; extremely anti-student clientele who would have beaten
us up if they hadn’t been so drunk. Dark and spooky’. The Locomotive in Mill Road
‘ought to be exorcised, its evil … the worst pub in Cambridge’ while the Midland
Tavern is, they say, ‘the most notorious pub in town with a reputation for being a
centre of vice’. One landlord replied: “It’s about time the University made these
little boys do some work for their degrees … they speak too much claptrap”

c.27.4

1954

When the Rev Eric Graves unwrapped a small brown-paper parcel which was delivered
by post to the Haverhill Vicarage he was more than a little surprised to find it
contained £100 in £1 [ONE POUND] notes. It was accompanied by a letter signed ‘A
well wisher’ which read: “Please find enclosed £100 to get something required for
the church. Let me know if you received the money by a notice in the Parish
Magazine”. Apart from the fact that the parcel was posted in Haverhill the Vicar
has no idea as to the identity of the person who made the generous gift and has no
intention of trying to find out. It will be used on the church’s beautification
scheme.

1929

Papworth Village Settlement visit by Duke & Duchess of York – CDN 23.7.1929

1904

Two young ladies visited Cambridge as part of a tour in a coster’s cart. Arriving
at Ye Olde Castel Hotel they attracted a large crowd as much for their costume as
their conveyance. They wore holland dresses, large sun hats, sandals and were
without stockings. Needless to say the sight of such attire created astonishment
among the hotel staff which increased when the travellers requested a bed for a
donkey as well as themselves. Their departure next morning was attended by a great
crowd who minutely examined the East End turn out, the cooking stove and the
harness of the donkey which would not have been despised in the Old Kent Road.

WOMEN
Friday 6th August

1979

In June 1968 George Brown M.P. arrived to open the new building for Cambridge
Consultants Ltd at Bar Hill. He didn’t find anyone to receive him because CCL don’t
believe in receptionists. Instead he found a telephone which said ‘Please ring 47
and ask for the person you wish to speak to’. He did so and created a mild panic
among the company dignitaries whose job it was to receive him. But when Prince
Charles arrives to open the latest building on the Science Park he will find
receptionists in the regulation plate glass front office, surrounded by rubber
plants and other foliage.

1954

Newmarket General Hospital’s new student nurses cadet training scheme offers a
golden opportunity to girls who desire to take up nursing as a career. Many who
wanted to become nurses when they left school often found different work so that by
the age of 18 they became lost to the profession. While they would do no actual
nursing duties they would assist in the work of the Hospital. As salaries and
general conditions improved nursing still offered the finest career a girl could
undertake and one which was held in the highest esteem by everyone.

1929

Throwing stones at railway engine – banned from cinema CDN 25.7.1929

1904

The publication of Mr John Sweeney’s book ‘At Scotland Yard’ recalls one of the
most sensational tragedies Cambridge has known. The detective mentions the arrest
and subsequent death of the swindler who styled himself ‘Dr Sinclair Roland’ and
resided at a well-furnished, expensively-rented house called Edenfield in
Trumpington Road. It had been chosen for its security from observation and general
utility as a hiding place. There was an elaborate system of cupboards and secret
passages by which he could hide or escape. But the police blocked every exit, a
systematic search was made and a secret panel discovered where the man was found.
He called for a glass of water and fell dead, having taken poison which he carried
in a ring.

c.34.6

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

1929 NOT TYPED

Monday 2nd August

1979

Cambridgeshire county council took a step towards the transport of the future when
it brought into service the country’s first electric mobile library. One of the
largest electric road vehicles to go into commercial service, it was built by
Hyrotechnick of Toft and is based on an electric travelling shop which has been
successful in Holland. It is powered by four independent motor-drive systems on the
rear wheels and has a speed of 12½ [TWELVE AND A HALF] miles an hour, suitable for
its task in the city. A second one on order will be faster with a speed of around
40 mph

c.77.7

1954

The Ministry of Housing have overruled the RDC and allowed the erection of a
dwelling house on land at Main Street, Highfields, Caldecote. This has opened up a
new page in history for a number of residents anxious to improve their properties.
They had acquired smallholdings on which they wished to build a house in which to
live. It was a community which could not just be wiped off the map and they would
do what they could to develop the place. The making up of the back road would
enable frontagers to sell off plots for development.

1929

Caxton pageant – CDN 20.7.1929

c.76

1904

The quietude of Ely was rudely disturbed by news of a shocking tragedy enacted on
Back Hill, one of the most peaceful parts of the old City. A bricklayer’s labourer
twice shot at his neighbour with a double-barrelled gun, the bullets going through
her left breast and causing such deadly wounds that she shortly afterwards expired.
He then coolly walked into his own house and shot himself through the head. The
murder caused the greatest sensation, news spread with rapidity to all parts and
the place of the ghastly murder, the humble home of a cottager, became the scene of
the greatest excitement Ely has known for years, particularly evinced by the
arrival on the scene of several photographers.

c.34.6

Tuesday 3rd August

1979

The great Cambridge greenfly plague is now so serious that a dramatic change in the
weather is needed if it is to be held at bay. The ferocity of the invasion has
turned shop fronts green with aphid slime. Motorists are battling hard as swarms of
flies cause clouded windscreens while at home all doors and windows have to be
firmly closed despite the heat. It is now getting difficult to hold conversations
outside without swallowing mouthfuls of greenflies and all citizens are being
advised to go to the nearest swimming pool, retire to the bar or simply stay
indoors. Experts say that ladybirds, their natural foes, were decimated in the last
harsh winter and there is no alternative other than a good downpour or cooler
weather.

c.19

1954

Cambridge councillors discussed the impact of any explosion of a hydrogen bomb on

the city. There would be an area of total destruction three miles immediately below
the bomb burst with a radius of ten miles of lesser destruction. Civil Defence was
a misnomer: they would not seek to construct a deep shelter to provide protection
for the people of Cambridge in the event of war; it was not ‘protection’ but
‘rescue and aftercare’. It was obvious that local telephone communication between
the Controller – if he still existed – and the locality would be useless. The only
way Cambridge would be helped was by a rescue column arriving from another part of
the country.

c.45.8

1929

New County Hall plans and tenders – SHIRE HALL CDN 22.7.1929

c.35.2

1904

Four Passive Resisters from Toft appeared before the magistrates for non-payment of
their poor rate. Joseph Worboys, a builder, said: “I am a Passive Resister, and my
father is not, or rather he does not want the bother of it”. The 1902 Education Act
was made for the benefit of one religious party and he objected to supporting a
doctrine to which he was opposed. The State did not ought to have anything to do
with the religious convictions of the people. It was a damnable Act of Parliament.
The magistrates understood and said the remedy was to get the law changed, but he
had to pay in the meantime.

c.33

Wednesday 4th August

1979

Cambridge’s most modern squash club on Histon Road already has 300 members but is
looking for another 150 to bring it up to the target envisaged by the local
businessmen who have made the £150,000 project a reality. There are four courts,
one with a glass back wall for safe viewing, a bar and large clubroom where they
intend to provide light refreshments and real ale. They also hope to provide a
variety of social functions catering for all the family and to meet the needs of
both ‘town and gown’ by providing excellent playing and social facilities.
c.38 : squash

1954
Cambridge city council attacked the County Council’s cavalier attitude over their
grandiose scheme for the replacement of the demolished Shire Hall Courts on Castle
Hill. They can no longer tolerate the attitude of a powerful section of the County
Council who seem bent on pursuing their own course with all the insensibility of a
bureaucratic bulldozer. The Government has indicated it is likely to introduce
Local Government reform and it is foolhardy to proceed with a scheme for more
office accommodation when certain functions might transfer to the City Council and
thus make the extra offices unnecessary. City residents provide 75 per cent of the
county rate and should have a fair say in any such scheme.

c.34.9

1929

No more war rally, Parker’s Piece – CDN 22.7.1929

c.45.6

1904

Residents in Cambridge were among the witnesses of a race between two balloons
which started from the Crystal Palace. The first, named the Norfolk, contained Mr
C.F. Pollock, D. Lloyd and J.T.C. Moore Brabazon and the second, the Aero Club No.1
contained the Hon C.S. Rolls, a former Cambridge man, Prof Huntingdon and Mr Frank
Butler. Mr Pollock obtained a lead of several miles by trailing – keeping very low
and trailing a rope along the ground – but this could not be done for long as a
village had to be ‘jumped’. When approaching Bottisham it was very near the ground
and a number of cyclists awaited the descent; their hopes were doomed when the
occupants threw out a quantity of ballast and ascended to a good height. A safe
landing was effected near Ely for one balloon and the second was captured by a
motor that was sent to chase it.

c.26.1

Thursday 5th August

1979

Pubs in and around Cambridge have come in for bitter criticism in a new guide
written by two undergraduates. The Rose in Rose Crescent is described as a ‘seedy
little place in a seedy little street. Gay Cambridge meets there, which says little
for their taste’. The Maypole in Park Street is described as a ‘grotty little dive
hidden rightly under the car park’, the Carpenters Arms in Victoria Road is
‘without redeeming feature; extremely anti-student clientele who would have beaten
us up if they hadn’t been so drunk. Dark and spooky’. The Locomotive in Mill Road
‘ought to be exorcised, its evil … the worst pub in Cambridge’ while the Midland
Tavern is, they say, ‘the most notorious pub in town with a reputation for being a
centre of vice’. One landlord replied: “It’s about time the University made these
little boys do some work for their degrees … they speak too much claptrap”

c.27.4

1954

When the Rev Eric Graves unwrapped a small brown-paper parcel which was delivered
by post to the Haverhill Vicarage he was more than a little surprised to find it
contained £100 in £1 [ONE POUND] notes. It was accompanied by a letter signed ‘A
well wisher’ which read: “Please find enclosed £100 to get something required for
the church. Let me know if you received the money by a notice in the Parish
Magazine”. Apart from the fact that the parcel was posted in Haverhill the Vicar
has no idea as to the identity of the person who made the generous gift and has no
intention of trying to find out. It will be used on the church’s beautification
scheme.

1929

Papworth Village Settlement visit by Duke & Duchess of York – CDN 23.7.1929

1904

Two young ladies visited Cambridge as part of a tour in a coster’s cart. Arriving
at Ye Olde Castel Hotel they attracted a large crowd as much for their costume as
their conveyance. They wore holland dresses, large sun hats, sandals and were
without stockings. Needless to say the sight of such attire created astonishment
among the hotel staff which increased when the travellers requested a bed for a
donkey as well as themselves. Their departure next morning was attended by a great
crowd who minutely examined the East End turn out, the cooking stove and the
harness of the donkey which would not have been despised in the Old Kent Road.

WOMEN
Friday 6th August

1979

In June 1968 George Brown M.P. arrived to open the new building for Cambridge
Consultants Ltd at Bar Hill. He didn’t find anyone to receive him because CCL don’t
believe in receptionists. Instead he found a telephone which said ‘Please ring 47
and ask for the person you wish to speak to’. He did so and created a mild panic
among the company dignitaries whose job it was to receive him. But when Prince
Charles arrives to open the latest building on the Science Park he will find
receptionists in the regulation plate glass front office, surrounded by rubber
plants and other foliage.

1954

Newmarket General Hospital’s new student nurses cadet training scheme offers a
golden opportunity to girls who desire to take up nursing as a career. Many who
wanted to become nurses when they left school often found different work so that by
the age of 18 they became lost to the profession. While they would do no actual
nursing duties they would assist in the work of the Hospital. As salaries and
general conditions improved nursing still offered the finest career a girl could
undertake and one which was held in the highest esteem by everyone.

1929

Throwing stones at railway engine – banned from cinema CDN 25.7.1929

1904

The publication of Mr John Sweeney’s book ‘At Scotland Yard’ recalls one of the
most sensational tragedies Cambridge has known. The detective mentions the arrest
and subsequent death of the swindler who styled himself ‘Dr Sinclair Roland’ and
resided at a well-furnished, expensively-rented house called Edenfield in
Trumpington Road. It had been chosen for its security from observation and general
utility as a hiding place. There was an elaborate system of cupboards and secret
passages by which he could hide or escape. But the police blocked every exit, a
systematic search was made and a secret panel discovered where the man was found.
He called for a glass of water and fell dead, having taken poison which he carried
in a ring.

c.34.6

Looking Back by Mike Petty

1929
NOT TYPED

Monday 16th August

1979

A slip by the headsman who decapitated the embalmed body of Oliver Cromwell may
provide valuable clues in the identification of the Lord Protector’s true remains.
For in an unmarked ‘grave’ in the chapel of Sidney Sussex College Cambridge lies a
preserved human head complete with hair, impaled upon an oaken and metal spike
which for the past 20 years has been widely accepted as that of Cromwell. Now
another head had turned up in Lincolnshire which its owners are trying to
authenticate in the hope of selling it off. But Dr Raymond Smail says theirs was
clearly taken from a body that was already embalmed and not preserved after
severance.

1954

The combination of perfect weather conditions, a record crowd of 4,000 people, an

extended and improved circuit and some first-class riding made the scramble held on
the Old Bank, Littleport the most successful yet staged by the Ely Motor Cycle
Club. Jack Hubbard was a firm favourite as were Bud Ekins and Vern Hancock, two
Americans riding under the Ely colours. John Baker, fast making a name for himself,
also rode quite well

1929

The Rev Frank Jennings is getting first-hand experience of our social problems and
spent his holiday living the life of a tramp. Two tramps described the Casual ward
of Cambridge workhouse: “Rotten, sire. The ‘spike’ there is ‘no cop’. Swarms of
mice run about at night. No baths, dirty wash basins. It’s a disgrace to the city”.
So he visited for himself; the usual questions were asked by the porter but there
was no attempt at searching. “I was directed to a large sleeping-room and bidden
fetch my ration of 8ozs of bread and marg and a mug of hot but unsweetened tea.
There was no bath, contrary to Government regulations as the boilers were due to be
inspected. There were 18 people in the room and wire-framed bedspreads replete with
three Army rugs made a comfortable lie down. There were no mice but I noticed a few
holes in the floor”. CDN 31.7.1929

c.32.9

1904

The spell of hot weather has been followed by thunderstorms. At Needingworth the
end of a cottage in the occupation of James Allgood was struck by lightning,
bursting the wall open. The window panes were broken and the house was much shaken.
The current passed through the bedroom and descended to the room underneath where
Mr Allgood was sitting opposite the door. He was struck senseless. His wife was
sitting near the window at the sewing machine wearing a steel thimble on her
finger. She was struck on the right side and at first it was thought the shock had
killed her. Both were put to bed and are progressing favourably.

c.12

Tuesday 17th August

1979

BBC Television uncovered a wealth of local treasures when its ‘Antiques Roadshow’
visited Ely. There was a Ming vase, a rich vein of Oriental porcelain, a number of
carvings from Africa and Indonesia as well as pieces of local interest. These
included a 12ft punt gun, made in 1840, which was probably used in the fens.
Strapped to a boat and loaded with 30lb of shot it was capable of killing up to 30
birds at one go.

c.27.82

1954

Another milestone in the trading history of Cambridge was reached when the Danish
Bacon Company opened modern premises in Cherry Hinton Road. The main feature is the
mechanical plant for smoking bacon, something new in the industry. The metal alloy
chamber in which sides of bacon absorb their colour is a striking contrast to the
old sooted kilns in which many curers have set to work. The smoke is produced by
burning white wood sawdust which takes 4½ [FOUR AND A HALF] hours against 36 to 48
hours by the older methods. The company came to Russell Street 20 years ago.

c.27

1929

Pymoor railway sidings tragedy – CDN 16.8.1929

c.26.2

1904

The current issue of the ‘Strand Magazine’ possesses a special interest for
Cambridge people since the town has furnished Sir Arthur Conan Doyle with material
for his latest Sherlock Holmes story, The Missing Three-quarter. It concerns the
disappearance of a member of the Cambridge University rugger team on the eve of the
annual match against Oxford. Holmes is supposed to visit Cambridge, residing in an
inn next to a bicycle shop; he explores Histon, Oakington and Waterbeach before the
final scene of the story is set in a lonely cottage in a field near Trumpington.

c.76

Wednesday 18th August

1979

A major Cambridge store which put up new ‘Thieves will be prosecuted’ notices on
its doors recently, had the lot stolen. Even the store detective had to smile. In
Cambridge in summer the problem gets worse: school holidays and the influx of
visitors contribute to the peak and magistrates have expressed concerns about this
unacceptable face of tourism. Professionals come in teams for the day and wreak
enough damage to seriously concern the Chamber of Commerce. Store detectives are in
the front line in the fight, Joshua Taylor has recently reintroduced one and the
Co-op are advertising for more

c.34.6

1954

Mr Leonard Dix told the enquiry he had bought land on both sides of the railway
track at Newport in 1924 and built a bungalow. There was no public right of way and
no stiles. He received keys for two gates adjoining the railway track and padlocks
on the gates were supplied by the railway company. Postmen used to climb the gates
to take letters but one day a new postman brought a bicycle and asked that the gate
be unlocked. In 1928 a man walked over the crossing; he told him it was not a right
of way and he did not come again. But the inspector judged that there was nothing
to stop people from using the path; the evidence was complicated but by usage it
had become a public right of way

1929

Wicken Fen sedge fire – CDN 16.8.1929

c.44.2 # c.34.75

1904

Attendance at public bodies bear the mark of the exodus. Chesterton Urban District
Council was reduced to three members and a chairman. The clerk was away on holiday.
With him went the keys which keep the Council’s documents away from prying eyes so
when the minutes came up for confirmation there were no minutes to confirm. Then
the seal could not be had because it too was under lock and key. However the
business of the Council was not impeded

c.35.3

Thursday 19th August

1979

It’s not much fun for the long-suffering bus passenger when his bus does not turn
up – especially if it happens time and again. But spare a thought for the equally
long-suffering divers. In Cambridge there should be 150 drivers, but are only 120.
The roads and cycling tourists are a nightmare and their wages are too low - £42
for 40-hour six-day week with Saturdays off a luxury. In London they can drive
buses with automatic gearboxes and power steering and pick up £100; even conductors
are being offered £90 in the capital.

c.26.46

1954

This year marks the 150th anniversary of Lloyd’s Bank in Cambridge. In 1804 two
bothers named Foster who were already trading as millers established a bank in
Bridge Street. In 1835 they transferred to the Turk’s Head in Trinity Street and
opened branches in St Ives, Saffron Walden and Ely. In those days two members of
staff were boarded on the premises, one sleeping on a bed in front of the strong
room armed with a rusty sword. At no time was the building left unattended. In 1890
they acquired a site at the junction of Hobson Street and a new building in
Renaissance style was opened in 1894. The Capital and Counties Bank took them over
in 1904 and 14 years later they amalgamated with Lloyd’s. In 1919 the two offices
were merged and the Sidney Street premises chosen as the main branch. In 1935 a
considerable extension was built on the corner site.

c.32.8

1929

Burwell chemist McBeath life-saving method – CDN 16.8.1929

1904

Royston town council was told some ten or twelve persons had purchased land in
Green Street and it was only fair to them to have a good road. At the same time
lighting should be provided and the Gas Company instructed to lay on the necessary
services. But the Tradesmen’s Club objected. They were the largest owners of land
in the street. The houses had neither gas nor water, just the sewer and it would be
better to wait until the mains had been laid. In the event of more building the
road would have to be opened to connect these services and leave scars on the
surface

Friday 20th August

1979

Tesco’s plans for a superstore at Broad Street Ely have been agreed by planners,
despite fears from the Council that the scheme will hit existing shops and
complaints from Waterside residents about extra traffic. But the Ely Society and
the Chamber of Commerce supported the idea. Development Manager Timothy Aldworth
said he had never felt the area was an ideal centre for industry; parking pressures
on Market Square would be eased and the Club Hotel properly renovated. Ely’s
shopping centre was in danger of losing out to Cambridge and Newmarket unless new
life was injected into it.

1954

For the time being the proposal to expand Haverhill to take in 10,000 of London’s
‘overspill population has been shelved by the Government. There were difficulties
getting the industry necessary for so large an expansion and doubts whether it
could eventually pay its way so it will not be amongst the first series of town
expansions to be undertaken. But the Council still hope to accelerate the
development of the town even though this may be smaller than at first envisaged.

1929

Big Cambridge fire – sheds and railway trucks destroyed at Hills Road – CDN
17.8.1929

c.26.2 # c.34.75

1904

Mrs Sarah Ann Edwards told the Soham court that she had several occupations and
besides being a midwife and a washerwoman, prepared dead bodies for burial. She
purchased a pony and lent it to her husband who went to Fordham with it. He got
very drunk and went to the Windmill where the made a bargain for the pony with
William Harlock. It was taken from the cart and replaced by another one. This was a
broken-down creature, only fit for the knacker’s yard. When her husband got home
she went in search of her own animal and found it in the Ely pig market. Harlock
said he had bought it from her husband

c.21.1

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 23rd August

1979

Britain’s latest heart transplant patient, London builder Keith Castle, was sitting
up in a chair at Papworth Hospital less than 48 hours after his major operation. Mr
Terence English, the consultant surgeon who led the 12-strong heart transplant team
said the 5½ [FIVE AND A HALF] hour operation went very smoothly and the new heart
was functioning perfectly normally without assistance. Mr Castle received the heart
of 21-year-old golf professional Duncan Prestt who died after a car crash in Ely.
His wife said the first words her husband spoke after the operation were ‘Have you
remembered my Guinness’

1954

The pilot of an RAF Vampire jet trainer from Oakington airfield was killed when his
plane crashed into a cornfield at Dry Drayton. He succeeded in missing 18 Council
houses and women picking fruit in a nearby orchard before the plane – smoke pouring
from its tail – crashed into a field off the Oakington Road. It is thought the
pilot might have been attempting to make a forced landing and crashed through a
hedge before skidding along the ground for some distance. The engine and tail-plane
were 40 yards apart but still intact after the crash

c.26.1

1929

Cambridge about to see the ‘Talkies’, Southend says no – CDN 18.8.1929

1904

Members of the British Association meeting in Cambridge witnessed the making of

scientific instruments, the process of lithography, the making of cement and the
method of cleaning the interiors of buildings by the Eastern Counties Vacuum
Cleaner Company. By the operation of their machinery the whole of the dust
contained in a building, saturating its carpets, clinging to inaccessible portions
of its furniture and permeating its curtains and draperies, is removed entirely. At
present expense is an obstacle but the company intends to institute a method by
which a series of rooms can be cleaned at one time, minimising the expense of
conveying machinery backwards and forwards. Medical men taking part in the present
scientific pilgrimage will find themselves well rewarded by a visit to the
exhibition.

c.10
Tuesday 24th August

1979

Four more heart transplants are in the pipeline at Papworth Hospital; two patients
have already been accepted and are only waiting for donor hearts, two more have yet
to be chosen. All will be financed by a grant from the National Heart Research Fund
and performed by Mr Terence English. The probability that he would have to go
outside the NHS for money to carry on his work was predicted by the News last year
when the newspaper was the first to break the news that heart transplantation would
be carried out in Cambridgeshire rather than London. Cambridgeshire Area Health
Authority would let him use NHS facilities and equipment but would not pay for
anything else and the DHSS would not finance such surgery without some kind of
proof that it would be financially worthwhile.

1954

Cambridge Civic Restaurant has a new cafeteria counter which keeps food clean and
will save labour. Mrs C. Howsen, the catering manager, said there is anti-sneeze
glass which protects the food from germs and infra-red lamps not only heat the
plates but keep the food warm. There is also a refrigerator top that makes its own
snow and maintains the salads and ice cream at a low degree. The added cupboard
room for plates helps the staff as they can store the made-up plates under the
counter instead of having to leave them in the ovens.

c.27.4

1929

Broadway Melody at the Central cinema – CDN 20.8.1929

c.76.9

1904

The visit of the British Association has affected Cambridge. Hotels and tradesmen –
particularly butchers and confectioners – are busy, public servants are felling the
pressure, notably pressmen, postal officials and police. Almost every important
daily paper has a special representative and to cope with the labours of these
journalists four Wheatstone telegraphic machines have been installed at the Post
Office

c.27.9

Wednesday 25th August

1979

Tolly Cobbold, the brewer, is axing the Anchor pub at Bottisham to avoid spending
money on improving its lavatories. They have got two pubs in the village with
fairly deficient toilets and have decided to improve those at the White Swan where
the business is better. The landlord, Jim Torpey says the Anchor’s customers are
very disappointed; it has a crib, pool and darts team and raises money for the
Addenbrooke’s cancer scanner appeal. The closure is expected next year
1954

Messrs Kerridge of Cambridge staged a combined horticultural show and sports day on
Pye’s Sports ground when 100 children and 200 adults gathered from all parts of the
Eastern Counties. A varied programme of races continued throughout the afternoon
and there were also sideshows, including bowling for a pig. There were pony rides
arranged by the Harston Riding School, a chair-o-plane roundabout and various other
attractions including a comic cricket match. Mr P.D. Kenzie of Royston took eleven
first prizes at the horticultural show

1929

Wireless broadcasting masts, Ely – CDN 21.8.1929

c.27.8

1904

Evidence of the lack of cottages at Saffron Walden was illustrated when magistrates
were asked by the Town Council to eject four cottagers from their homes in
Faireycrof Road as they were required for demolition for street improvements. The
residents said they were willing to get out but had tried all over the town to get
houses and could not find any. Under the circumstances they did not know what to
do. Magistrates said they had to grant the orders but the residents should not be
turned out until other cottages had been found.

Thursday 26th August

1979

Clive Sinclair, the 38-year-old former electronics ‘whizz-kid’ who founded Sinclair
Radionics when he was 21 has set up a new company, Sinclair research. He hopes to
develop a television with an extra-large flat screen the size of a normal home cine
screen which would hang on the wall like a picture. He has previously developed
miniature radio sets, pocket-sized electronic calculators and a mini-television
which he manufactured at a factory at St Ives.

c.27.1

1954

The first demonstration in Britain of 3-D television attracted large crowds to the
Pye Radio works stand at the Radio and T.V. Exhibition at Earls Court, London. From
a miniature studio built on a raised platform in the middle of the stand 3-D
television pictures were being screened on experimental sets a few feet away. The
viewers had to wear polarised spectacles. Pye do not expect sets to be on sale to
the public in the near future; as a home entertainment 3-D television is a very
long way off yet. At the moment they are perfecting it for use in industry.

c.27.8

1929

Burwell – Wicken road – CDN 22.8.1929

c.44.65
1904

The Local Government Board have decided to close those parts of Mill Road cemetery
which are assigned to the parishes of St Andrew the Less, St Mary the Less and St
Botolph but say there is no need for the protection of public health for other
areas to be closed. The three portions will be sealed while in the rest of the
burial ground interments will continue as usual. This is in accordance with the
deep feelings expressed at the inquiry where representatives of the other parishes
had protested strongly against their grounds being closed, with the single
exception of the Rev Wood who was acting in direct opposition to the wishes of his
parishioners. His ‘aesthetic’ vapourings were appreciated by the Inspector for
their true worth.

c.21.2

Friday 27th August

1979

A Saffron Walden firm which specialises in security alarms has developed a unique
early-warning system for pregnant cows. The calving system is a harness which is
strapped around the cow and a plastic plate that fits under the tail. If the tail
is held horizontally for more than a couple of minutes, indicating that calving
contractions have started, it activates an alarm bell in the farmhouse. The results
have been extremely encouraging: it cuts out a lot of wasted time and gives the
cowman some sleep. The firm has also developed a way of detecting unwanted
intruders in the milking shed.

1954

Sir - The best part of our charming city of Cambridge is the Abbey Estate as during
the past few weeks No.1 Retort House at the Gas Works has been out of commission.
No dust; No smoke; No fumes; No hauling lumps of coke out of your eyes. All is
peaceful. The old grinding noise and clattering of the elevator has stopped.
Washing can be hung out free from grit and blacks and you can see the spire of St
Andrew’s church nestling among the trees. Delightful – but how long will it last? –
J.E.S.

c.24.4

1929

Albion Angling Society juvenile outing – CDN 22.8.1929

1904

The 1904 meeting of the British Association is over, our distinguished visitors
have departed from our midst, and we are settling quietly down to the dreary
dullness of what remains of the Long Vacation. It has been a memorable week.
Considered numerically and socially the meeting has been one of the most successful
they have ever held. In no other town could greater hospitality have been offered
than that displayed in Cambridge; all the important buildings – municipal and
university were placed at their disposal. Garden parties and receptions were as
plentiful and bounteous as even the most frivolous of savants could desire.

c.27.9

Looking Back by Mike Petty

1929 NOT TYPED

Monday 6th September

1979

Mr Tom Amey, Cambridge’s first Labour mayor, has died at the aged of 78. He was one
of a group of railwaymen who at one time formed the backbone of Labour councillors
and represented Romsey for 29 years. He always took a close interest in education
and having left school at the age of 15 he became head of the Education Committee
in 1966. The curtain went down on his active council work during the 1974
reorganisation of local government and his long service was recognised when he was
made an Honorary Freeman of the City in 1975

1954

Rain. Steel slivers of relentless ran beat into the track anxious officials had
nursed for Great Shelford’s Special Sunday. Then the sun blazed for the War
Memorial Hall sports day and carnival. More than 2,000 were there. Actress Jessie
Matthews arrived quietly in her silver Bentley and was welcomed by the Chairman of
the Parish Council. A carnival march heralded the arrival of the procession headed
by a break-down truck towing a model of the present hall and the one villagers want
to build. But then the breakdown truck had to leave for an accident at Foxton
Station.

1929

Flies half an inch thick in Willingham district – CDN 31.8.04

1904

Sir – In November a Cambridge man borrowed £20 from a money lender, agreeing to pay
£30 back by payments of £5 per month. He duly made the first four payments, thus
returning all that was advanced in cash. The last two payments were made, on in
May, five weeks after it was due, and the other in July, six weeks late. The
borrower still owes £21. In times of depression and bad trade as in Cambridge at
present is it unreasonable to ask newspapers not to carry advertisements for such
moneylenders? - Citizen

c.32.8

Tuesday 7th September

1979

A Cambridge University scientist, Dr Ellis Cosslett has been awarded a medal by the
Royal Society in recognition of his work on the design and development of the X-ray
and scanning electron microscopes. He worked on the 25ft-high seven-ton high-
resolution electron microscope that occupies two floors at the Old Cavendish
Laboratory and is capable of magnifying an atom a million times so that it is as
big as a full-stop. It was officially unveiled in May and is now part of a unit
carrying out studies for university scientists and industry.

1954

The Cambridge-built two-litre Lister-Bristol sports car in which Archie Scott-Brown

had such success at Silverstone has been tested by a journalist. “It is a well-
built competition car with superb handling and very high performance. I felt no
qualms in driving at 130 mph with one hand while operating the stop-watch with the
other”, he wrote of this product of the Cambridge firm of George Lister and Sons.

1929

Fen Drayton church spire struck by lightning; stones were cut out and one of the
buttresses torn away sending masonry crashing down on to a grave in the churchyard.
More debris fell in Church Street or was hurled into Mr E.J. Warboy’s premises on
the opposite side of the road. Thomas Johnson had a lucky escape; he had been
giving a little girl a ride on his bicycle and had alighted at his father’s house.
They managed to get inside as the stones rained down. – CDN 2.9.1929

Halifax Road explosion – CDN 2.9.1929

1904

A number of complaints have reached the CDN as to the impertinence of a moneylender

in Russell Street. His circular reads: “Do you want a little temporary assistance
without the usual money-lending routine, without publicity, without delay. If you
do call at my offices”. Regarding as we do all men of this stamp as dangerous to
society we hope his tenancy will be terminated by the owner of the property and
that the police will prevent this man thrusting upon the citizens of Cambridge by
means of their letter boxes, circulars of this unsavoury trade.

Wednesday 8th September

1979

Many of Cambridge’s traffic problems may soon be solved by silicon chip technology.
The chips would operate micro computers geared to all the city’s traffic lights to
ensure smooth traffic flows at all times. Such an elaborate computer system would
originally have cost around £5 million but now County Council officials consider
the new technology could reduce the cost to as low as £100,000. It could be
connected with all the car parks giving motorists instant information through
street corner signs and also tie in with temporary one-way workings and pedestrian
crossings.

COMPUTER

1954

Sir – the majority of people in Cambridge are simple working people but the wages
are lower than in many other towns, whilst the cost of living is proportionately
high. It does not help to be told ‘But this is a University Town, why not go to an
industrial town if you wish to earn higher wages’. If a family decided to do this
it is immediately confronted with housing difficulties so great that few can
overcome them and must crawl back with their tails between their legs to
contemplate the beauties of Cambridge and ponder over the coal bills. Buildings
designed for light industry need not be eyesores and would lead to increased
earnings. – J.P.

c..32.1

1929

Cinema – Show Boat 2nd talkie film - CDN 3.9.1929

c.76.9

1904

A correspondent points out that the circular issued by the Russell Street
moneylender bears no printer’s imprint, indicating that the printer was ashamed of
his task. This is an offence against the law of the land and both he and the person
who distributes it are liable to a fine of £3 for every copy. The police thus have
two grounds for taking action. We express our appreciation of the spontaneous
thanks which have reached us from all classes of Cambridge people for out attitude
in this matter. It shows that the evil results of the presence in a community of
these advertising moneylenders is widely recognised.

c.32.8

Thursday 9th September

1979

At the back of the Shire Hall and behind the Sir Isaac Newton pub in Cambridge sits
a small, portable office. It houses four dedicated workers who are preparing for
nuclear war and other major disasters such as flooding, hurricanes and air crashes.
Total nuclear war is a frightening prospect and the Government has taken steps to
plan for such a holocaust. Now parish councillors are to be trained as the latest
part of the contingency plans; they would act as ‘community advisors’, helping to
bring life back to normal in highly disrupted areas.

c.45.8

1954

In the 1920s Canadian wheatfields were being attacked by insects. The use of spray
was not satisfactory as thousands of square miles were involved & the obvious
answer was a biological control, but what? Then in the fields near Cherry Hinton
University scientists discovered a similar problem and noticed that a group of
parasites accumulated keeping a large number of the pests in check. Great
quantities of stubble were collected and stored; a number of women joined in
sorting and packing and the resultant collection was shipped to Canada. When the
parasites emerged they attacked the pests there. This is part of the research
undertaken at Cambridge University, Dr G. Salt of King’s College told a meeting.

1929

Cambridge traffic lights start – CDN 4.9.1929

c.26.48

1904
Three Cambridge lads were charged with committing damage to the Cambridge Volunteer
Corps rifle butts. Quartermaster-Sergt Rumbolt said that no sooner had shooting
concluded than these boys invaded the butts and pulled the earthwork about in their
search for bullets. This is a great nuisance and a great deal of expense has been
incurred in restoring them. The Corps could obtain £20 per ton for the bullets

c.45.4
Friday 10th September

1979

Cambridge’s newest bookshop has opened in Fitzroy Street, run by a six-member

collective, two of whom are squatting on the premises. Grapevine Books is a non-
profitmaking venture in the former Vacuum Cleaner Centre owned by the City Council.
They are trying to provide an outlet for environment and other groups such as
Gingerbread & Friends of the Earth who have difficulty in distributing their
publications.

c.25

1954

A crowd of over 5,000 turned up at Hill Farm, Arrington, to watch the Cambridge
Centaur Motor Cycle Club’s Autumn ‘Scramble’. The rains had left the course in a
slippery, muddy and extremely hazardous condition and provided the spectators with
thrills galore. Experts like Monty Banks and Andy Lee showed their paces but the
‘mud hole’ saw some slips and mishaps. Terry Connor had a spectacular ‘coming-off’
but got up none the worse for his tumble.

1929

Ely Rex Cinema opened CDN 4.9.1929

c.76.9

1904

An NSPPC Inspector told the court he visited a cottage at Babylon, over the river
at Ely. The house was very dirty and smelt very bad. The children were ‘very very
dirty’ and an infant was laid in a clothes’ basket. All the bedding in the house
was an old flock bed lying on an old straw mattress which was rotten, and all was
wet and dirty and full of vermin. The wife said she had emptied the bed and washed
the tick which was hung out to dry. He could not see it she said the wind must have
blown it down. She went to the fence bottom and pulled up an old rotten piece of
bag. It was full of slugs and worms and had obviously been lying there some time.
She said ‘I am going to wash it and my husband will fill it with straw.

CHILDREN

Looking Back by Mike Petty

1929 NOT TYPED

Monday 13th September

1979

The Savoy Jazzmen, one of Cambridge’s three leading ‘trad’ bands, celebrated its
21st anniversary with a concert at the Man on the Moon public house in Norfolk
Street. Founder member Barry Palser, the only ‘original’ still playing with the
group is delighted to report that the band is still blowing strong. “I founded my
first band in 1957; having taken over the Memphis Band we called ourselves the
Fenland Footwarmers before reforming as the Savoy”, he said. Humphrey Lyttleton has
written the sleeve notes for their new album paying glowing tributes to each member
individually saying. “This is a finely integrated band in which everyone is both
star and sideman”

c.69

1954

The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Mr R.A. Butler, received the Freedom of the
Borough of Saffron Walden before a crowded audience and newsreel, television and
press cameramen. It was awarded in recognition of the 25 years he has represented
the town as Member of Parliament and his eminent services to the nation during that
time. He had shown a never-failing interest in the welfare of the Borough and given
willing help to the constituents.

1904

Chesterton Urban District Council received a report recommencing that the widened
portion of Lovers Walk be made up at a cost of 1s 5½d [ONE SHILLING AND FIVE-PENCE
HALFPENNY] per foot frontage and resolved that notices be served upon the owners
to carry out the work. It was also agreed that Lovers Lane should be renamed and in
future be known as St Andrew’s Road.

Tuesday 14th September

1979

Shoppers at Boots in Cambridge can now start using the store chain’s own credit
cards. They are the latest to leap on the ‘plastic-money’ bandwagon following in
the wake of Woolworth, Marks and Spencer, Tesco and International. Most schemes
require the cardholder to be over 18, have a bank account and pay by standing
order. It needs care: the temptation is always there to overspend. Whether or not
we all end up with wallets full of little plastic cards remains to be seen. In the
long run it may all link up to a totally cashless shopping exercise with your goods
and card going through an automatic till.

1954

Senior school pupils from the Caldecote and Childerley Gate area who cannot now
attend Cottenham School owing to overcrowding are due to start in temporary school
buildings on the Bourn aerodrome site. But their parents will refuse to allow them
to attend; they say there is a pig farm less than 30 yards away and when it rains
the site is absolutely marshy. Derelict buildings nearby have broken windows, it is
surrounded by rubble and more squalid than a bomb site. A new senior school should
be erected next to the existing Childerley Gate Primary School for £5,500 if built
with pre-fabricated material
1904

Green Street, Cambridge would hardly be suspected of any pretensions to the

romantic. Its well-ordered lodging-houses, the policemen who parade it and the
milkmen who visit it, all seem to bar the entrance to anything more fanciful. Yet
it is home to a Russian Pole, Mr Ignatius Knaster who became a political offender
by the publication of a political pamphlet dealing with the conditions in Poland
and was given the alternative of incarceration or banishment.

c.44.6 # c.33

Wednesday 15th September

1979

Veteran saddler Edward Bowles, aged 94, is out of harness after running his own
business in Cambridge for 65 years. His working life is probably one of the longest
in the country. He started in Glisson Road in 1913. “I love my work but it’s just
getting a bit too much now”, he said. “I thought it was time to stop because I’m 95
this month”. Mr Bowles carried on alone after his son Cecil, who followed in his
footsteps, died.

c.27

1954

Freddie Pope, 83, is a remarkable countryman who does a full day’s work on the
harvest field, working for his nephew, Mr Harold Driver, of Huntingdon Farm,
Sawston. He looks after 60 head of cow stock and one day this year fed them in the
morning, drilled ten acres of corn with his horse and fed the stock again in the
evening. He went to live at Mill Farm, Pampisford in 1939; before that he farmed in
the Ely district and was for a long time licensee of the ‘Fish and Duck’ near
Stretham. This was in the Pope family for so long that the place is still known as
Pope’s Corner

1904

Cambridge has had more than its fair share of tragedies. Foremost is the terrible
tragedy enacted at Shrapnel Barracks, Woolwich, when a Cambridge girl was destroyed
by her soldier lover who subsequently shot himself. Then there was the inquest into
the wife of a Chesterton hairdresser who committed suicide, a pitiful tale of
conjugal unhappiness, poverty and religious mania. Equally shocking was the
terrible death of a Bassingbourn girl in a London shop fire. Emerging safely from
the burning building she rushed back into the flames in a foolish attempt to rescue
her engagement ring.

Thursday 16th September

1979

When councillors turned down plans for a 71-house estate at The Doles, Over, the
developer appealed to the Minister and was awarded costs. The problem is continual
financial pressure to build new houses in the area. It makes sites too attractive
for their owners to resist selling them; it makes housing too dear for ordinary
people to contemplate buying. Future pressure will come from the new M11 motorway,
the likely development of Stansted Airport and the electrification of the railway
line to London. “We have reached the state when it will be difficult to resist
complete urbanisation”, one councillor said. “Over was one of the prettiest fen
villages. Now I am afraid that other villages may be raped as is has been.”

1954

Mr Harold Macmillan, Minister of Housing, has approved the County Development Plan.
He has decided to leave in the proposed spine relief road intended to relieve
traffic pressure in the centre of Cambridge but there will be no firm decision
about the road for at least five years when the matter can be considered further.
But the proposal to establish a bus station between Christ’s and Emmanuel Colleges
should be deleted due to the effect of noise and movement of traffic on the
colleges and doubts about the adequacy of the site for the size of the station
which would be needed.

1904

Our Special Correspondent gives a graphic account of the days fighting at the Essex
manoeuvres which resulted in the defeat of the defenders and the fall of
Colchester. The Bedfordshires had just entrenched themselves when suddenly the
sentries gave the alarm that the enemy was upon them in the darkness. They
endeavoured to make a stand and began firing vigorously but General French attacked
with nearly a whole division and in the end they had to clear out of their camp or
be captured.

c.45.4

Friday 17th September

1979

Eight miles of lodes in the Burwell district could collapse, causing massive
flooding, unless £1 million is spent to consolidate them. Not everybody agrees they
should be saved. Since fen drainage the peat has shrank leaving the banks 15-20
feet high above the surrounding land. If the trendy conservationist lobby is going
for strict historical accuracy then it should support a project which reduces the
banks, not raise them still further. But they are a vital amenity and one of the
few havens of natural beauty in the region. If enough people feel strongly enough
and are prepared to back starry-eyed ideas with cash then their conservation must
be assured.

1954

The ‘Kum-In Café’ sited on the Cambridge Road corner at Ely has changed hands as a
result of an auction at the White Hart Hotel when it was sold to Mr F.C. Leavis of
Cambridge for £1,650. The café premises, 43-47 St Mary’s Street were offered
together with a flat and houses with a large walk-in yard. But a modern residence,
‘Balmoral’ at Newmarket Road, Fordham including a garage, garden and engineer’s
workshop was withdrawn from sale at £2,700

1904

This week’s manoeuvres in Essex were brought to a conclusion when the invading army
were driven from the country. In the night the wind changed, the rain stopped, and
from early morning the sea did not shown ripple enough to disturb the mother of the
paddling child, much less the scared and defeated invader hurrying back to his
ships. The tide was so low that the horse-boats and whalers could not get up to the
beach, and if our army had been at hand we could have compelled the foreigners to
bathe for once in their lives. But out troops were held up by the enemy seven miles
away. For four hours the battle raged without ceasing and by the time the fighting
was over the tide had risen.

c.45.4

1929

Ely City bandmaster’s death – CDN 5.9.1929

1929

Ickleton Old Mill occupied by electricity supply co destroyed by fire – CDN

11.9.1929

1929

Band of Hope cinematograph – CDN 13.9.1929

1929

Search for temple treasure – Capt Robson – CDN 14.9.1929

1929

Colour talkies in miniature – synchronised with gramophone player – CDN 14.9.1929

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

1929 NOT TYPED

Monday 20th September

1979

Three people died and seven were injured when two RAF jets crashed at Wisbech. One
plane narrowly missed two schools and a college before plunging into Ramnoth Road,
demolishing two houses and a bungalow. Hundreds of people, including the Mayor,
frantically searched through the rubble for survivors. Police put a ‘disaster plan’
into immediate action and emergency services rushed to the area which was evacuated
and cordoned off. The second plane crashed at New Drove, near the town’s industrial
area. The aircraft, single-seater Harrier jump jets, were based at RAF Wittering.

c.26.1

1954

A perfect black smoke ring topped by a mushroom cloud hung in the air over a bombed
fort hit by Meteors highlighted Waterbeach ‘Battle of Britain’ Saturday. Small boys
clutching identification manuals pestered their less knowledgeable fathers with
technical questions or casually recognised jet planes and provided exact data for
ignorant mothers. They elbowed their ways into the cockpits of fighters on display
– except the Swift, which was closely guarded. A mass scramble split the eardrums
as the jets roared down the runway in pairs but most impressive was the tight
formation flying of the modern fighters at low level. Stateliest aircraft were the
long-range submarine killer Shackletons while ‘Old Faithful’, the Vampire V flew
some skilful aerobatics.

c.26.1

1929

Absence of wasps – CDN 14.9.1929

c.19

1904

Councillors considered a tender from Mr A. Watts to cart water for drinking

purposes at Rampton for 15s. per week. Mr Ivatt moved the acceptance and remarked
that the water supply had failed – a rather astonishing fact considering the
rainfall of last summer. Mr Few asked if it would not be more economical to lay
pipes from the Cottenham source. Mr Ivatt: There is no water at the present moment,
so what are we to do? The tender was accepted.

Tuesday 21st September

1979

Stunned and exhausted the Mayor of Wisbech spoke of the appalling tragedy which
rocked his town. Coun Bob Lake was one of the first on the scene of the disaster in
which an RAF Harrier jump jet totally destroyed two houses and a bungalow following
a mid-air collision. “I just ran for the smoke as fast as I could. When I arrived
in Ramnoth Road my heart stopped”, he said. “I was informed that there was a man
and a child trapped so I started tearing at the rubble. The remains of the three
buildings were on fire and gas filled the air. The three people who died were a
former Mayor of Wisbech, a 40-year old man and his 2½ [TWO AND A HALF] year-old
son. There were stories of narrow escapes as the plane passed narrowly over two
schools and an 800-pupil college.

c.26.1

1954

Newmarket’s King Edward VII Memorial Hall which for ten years following the bombing
of 1941 served as the town’s General Post Office, has re-opened for public use. The
town had been without the amenity for 13 years and few people under 18 had ever
been inside it. The Council had reconstructed the old building, modernised and
decorated it but it still remained inconvenient. The alterations had cost almost as
much as the original building. The actual dance floor was acknowledged as one of
the best in East Anglia. One day they hoped to build a supper room alongside the
present hall.

1929

Jesus Green baths strewn with rubbish – CDN 14.9.1929

1904

For four or five days in all weathers people have been searching several miles of
hedgerows between Cambridge and Buntingford. They have been marshalled in extended
order and down they swooped upon the inoffensive hedges. It was something like a
pegged-down fishing competition and each hoped that to him had been portioned the
fateful stretch of ground wherein a stolen tin of diamonds is supposed to have been
hidden. One day a cry of triumph marked the discovery of a tin box. Were the
diamonds there? Not a bit of it. The tin was one from which a celebrated smoking
mixture had been abstracted. Another man found an empty mustard tin. The search has
been fruitless.

Wednesday 22nd September

1979

Traffic jams would stretch across large parts of Cambridge every weekend if the £10
million Kite shopping development went ahead, a transport report commissioned by
the Kite Co-ordinating Council claims. The new traffic may eventually block the
Mill Road roundabout for several hours of the day. The number of car parking spaces
would need to be doubled to meet demand and the cost would have to come from the
ratepayers. Traffic is likely to increase anyway in the next ten years and the
anticipated reduction through the opening of the Northern By-pass has not happened,
they claim

1954

The new beacons guarding pedestrian crossings have begun flashing in Cambridge. The
flashing beacons which continue their winking by day and night make the crossings
they serve official ways for pedestrians which motorists must observe. But some say
that the flashing lights are not easy to see in daytime when a great deal of
traffic makes them useful. Quite a few motorists are opposed with opinions ranging
from ‘not worth a light’ to ‘just another thing to look for’

c.26.48

1929

Ely water shortage – CDN 17.9.1929

c.24.2

1904

The Official Receiver examining the affairs of a cycle dealer in King Street,
Cambridge heard that he had begun business in 1895 and made a fair income until two
years ago. The causes of his failure were bad trade, loss on a motor car and the
illness of his wife and family. Since the receiving order had been made he had kept
two men on the premises at work doing repairs to keep the business going. The New
Hudson people had written asking what he would take for the whole thing and Mr Ison
had also been after it. The Receiver said ‘A man who would work would do very
well. Of course when a man stands outside for an admiring crowd to gaze at you
cannot wonder …’ Among his creditors were Macintosh and Sons, J.F. Amps, Enfield
Cycle Co, The Cycle Exchange and H. Swainland.

c.26.485

Thursday 23rd September

1979

There are three telephone operators on duty at Cambridge railway station; they can
tell someone the train times between Madras and Bombay, but don’t want to. Because
Cambridge isn’t on the main line most cross-country rail inquiries involve looking
up train times and co-ordinating them on several different pages of the standard
published timetables. So every year they compile their own timetables to take
passengers to every station in the country. It takes two people a month’s work but
has proved so useful that travel agents are now buying copies from the station.
They have also collected their own file of useful information such as how long it
takes to walk from one Birmingham station to another.

1954

It may interest readers to know that the short thoroughfare from St Andrews’ Street
to Drummer Street, now known as Christ’s Lane , has changed its name more than any
other in Cambridge. Old maps show it as Hangman’s Lane, St Nicholas’ Lane, Rogis
Lane, Rogues’ Lane, Hinton Lane and George Street. Downing Street has been
Dowdivers Lane, Langrith Lane, Hogshill Lane, Bird Bolt Lane and Plot and Nuts
Lane.

c.48

1929

Colour talkies in miniature – CDN 14.9.1929

c.76.9

1904

There was a larger attendance than usual at Royston court on account of the Passive
Resisters’ claims. The case of Charles Whyatt, a member of the Urban District
Council, was taken first as a test case. He said the passing of the Education Act
has been a source of great offence to some Nonconformists who had determined to
resist its operation by every means in their power. Passive Resisters had been
formed in very part of the country and at Royston they felt it was their duty to
deduct a portion of the rate that had been levied for educational purposes. One of
the overseers had said he would have nothing to do with collecting the money but
the auditor had threatened to surcharge him with the amount not collected.

c.33

Friday 24th September

1979

The mobile library being used while Cambridge’s Mill Road library is being repaired
has received a parking ticket while operating outside the building. It has now
moved to Great Eastern Street on the other side of the railway bridge. Now there
are fears that its isolation and lack of electricity will force its closure,
leaving thousands of Romsey residents without a library. The police action has
angered Cambridge councillors; Coun Sweeney said: “I have asked the City Surveyor
if he could get a pot of black paint and paint out the yellow lines so the library
can remain there. It is no use moving to Great Eastern Street because that area too
is earmarked for double yellow lines”

c.77.4

1954

Flashing indicator lights on motor cars are no a new idea. They were invented and
patented in 1922 by Mr Harold Wheeler son of the Over schoolmaster A.G. Wheeler.
When he bought his first car he felt the need for an efficient signaller and
flashing lights seemed to be the answer. The invention was perfected, patented and
submitted to the public carriage office of New Scotland Yard. It was hailed as
‘ingenious but impractical’ and legislation would be needed before it could be
used. He had several enquiries from the Continent but finally removed the gadget
and stored it away in a cupboard. Now flashing indicators have arrived from
American but his patent has run out.

1929

New wireless station transmitter benefits Cambridge CDN 18.9.1929

c.27.8

1904

Four Soham passive resisters were before the magistrates for non-payment of the
education rate. They were the Rev Shreeve Baptist minister, Rev H.C. Gant the
Congregational minister, C. Fyson a wheelwright, and Frederick Owers. He was aged
nearly 80 and had always paid his rates before but objected – ‘I expect I have got
to pay, but that does not make a just thing of it any the more for that’. Rev.
Shreeve said it was no pleasure for him to come to court; it was obnoxious as he
had always been a law-abiding person but he had a conscientious objection to paying
the rate

c.33

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

1929 NOT TYPED

Monday 27th September

1979

Thousands of pounds worth of malting barley was destroyed when a huge blaze gutted
a storehouse at Dullingham. The maltings next to the railway line are owned by
Clark and Butcher, a firm of Soham corn merchants, and leased to a Newmarket firm
who said that top quality malting barley had been destroyed that would have been
used to make whisky. Firemen had to travel more than a mile to obtain water because
a nearby hydrant had dried out but further disaster was averted when they prevented
a 1,500-gallon tank full of diesel from exploding. Two pensioners were evacuated
from their homes and police set up road blocks when Station Road became impassable.

1954

The new Methodist church in Sturton Street, Cambridge was opened and dedicated at a
largely-attended ceremony. It is of pleasing, simple design and replaces the
building damaged by bombs in 1940. The Mayor, Coun Hallett, said it was the only
here to have been completely bombed and it was encouraging to know that the
congregation had come to the rescue and rebuilt it in a most impressive style. The
architect, D.C. Denton-Smith acknowledged the work of the builders, Eric Kidman,
Mr Linsey foreman; Messrs Cooks plasterers; Messrs Pratt builders’ merchants;
Messrs Scotts electricians & other associated with the re-building.

c.83.06

1929

Band of Hope cinema – David Moore – CDN 13.9.1929

c.76.9

1904

Sturmer church has a harmonium which has done excellent service for many years but
the time has arrived when an instrument more in tune with modern ideas should be
provided. The rector noticed that the renowned millionaire philanthropist Mr Andrew
Carnegie was giving portions of his wealth away and wrote to him. Now he has
offered half of the cost of a £120 organ providing the parish raises the other. A
public meeting has decided to accept; a sale of work will be held and small amounts
collected weekly from the poorer parishioners.

Tuesday 28th September

1979

The Cambridge area may increasingly become a territory for commuters due to the
combined effect of the M11 and railway electrification; estate agents say people
should buy houses now, while they can afford them. Heydon is among the more sought-
after villages but unfortunately opportunities to buy homes there are rare. One of
the few is a four-bedroomed detached house situated in large grounds, including a
shower room, carpets and kennels. It is priced at around £69,950

1954

A new Civil Defence rescue training centre was opened in Newmarket Road, Cambridge.
There are two tumble-down structures – a façade and a rescue set – and volunteers
set to work showing rescue attempts in an Atomic-bomb war. Major-Gen Bruce said:
“In view of the present threat, where we needed one volunteer before we now want
100. It is un-British to have the attitude of mind that we are going to be
frightened and blackmailed into putting up with might”. Heavy explosives and
incendiaries are likely to go out of business, but not in the first two years of
another war, because our enemy has a tremendous amount of aircraft and bombs that
he will want to use.

c.45.8

1929

Luard Road private street objectors – CDN 16.9.1929

c.44.6

1904

A poorly-attended council meeting considered an offer from the Cambridge Electric

Tramways Syndicate to electrify and extend the present tramway system. The overhead
trolley system for running the cars would not to be employed in King’s Parade
without the consent of the council. But consultants say that the existing lines in
Kings Parade should be abandoned & they cannot recommend new lines in the town
centre because the narrowness of the streets would generate great opposition from
residents. A new line should be laid in Silver Street but this is so narrow that
the trams would take their turn with ordinary road traffic and keep to the left.
There may be some objection to a track down Queen’s Road which has the character of
a boulevard but this would not be disturbed by the working of the tramways. The
busiest section would be Hills Road where trams would run at about 2 ¾ minute [TWO
AND THREE-QUARTER MINUTE] intervals.

c.26.44

Wednesday 29th September

1979

Suggestions from the Vicar that Lode may become a dying village have brought a
strong protest from a new resident. He says: “I am astonished by his implications
that it can only be revived by increased building of family homes, by light
industry and by attracting summer visitors. The numerous clubs and associations,
the friendly greetings, the happy school and many signs indicate this most be one
of the most vital villages in the area. But the vicar replies: “In the long term,
unless people accept change and plan for it inn a positive way, then villages like
this will tend to become dormitories”. Newcomers wanted the village to remain as it
is, while people with roots there seek changes that will provide them with
employment.

1954

Oakington and Westwick Recreation Ground was opened in the shadow of the airfield
as a memorial to the fallen of the last war. Hubert Doggett, chairman of the parish
council said: “We have been up against terrible expense and the Council have been
almost afraid to look at the figures.” Many of our social evils arise because of
the lack of playing fields and the appalling amount of deaths which occur to young
children on the roads today could be avoided if there were somewhere they could let
off steam. The children of the future would say ‘thank you’ to those who had
carried out the work. It is also planned to erect a Memorial Hall facing Queen’s
Way

1929

Ramsey MacDonald prime minister surprise visit Cambridge – CDN 19.6.1929

c.33

1904

Comment was aroused by the sight of a Cambridge magistrate assisting a workman to

carry a heavy pail along Corn Exchange Street and into the Town Clerk’s office. It
was not a common or garden pail but a vessel of great antiquarian interest that had
been discovered amongst some rubbish in the old office of the Inspector of Weights
and Measures. It is a bushel measure of solid bronze with ornamental handles
inscribed ‘Elizabeth’ and dated 1601.

c.43

Thursday 30th September

1979

Ronelles, a disco restaurant, will soon open above Lion Yard in the heart of
Cambridge and one of the city’s most interesting business gambles will be under
way. It’s a big bet. The lease is long but the odds are short that young Cambridge
people will patronise a place which they have long insisted is overdue. The club
will have a membership of 500 and be relatively expensive with a £100 a year
membership fee. It will have an elevated restaurant, two bars, a dance floor, a
waterfall and cabins. These together with palm trees and a native mask on the logo
suggest the premises may have a Caribbean flavour. It will be a welcome solution to
an embarrassing problem for the space, originally intended for offices, has stayed
empty for years.

c.69

1954

Bassingbourn Village College has just been completed and for generations to come
young and old will have every opportunity to meet for study, self-expression,
practical work or simple relaxation in a building which is delightful in itself and
in its surroundings. Its Hall is designed for high-quality acoustics and will be
the cinema, theatre, dance and concert hall of the village. There is a splendid
gymnasium, a workshop, and a domestic science laboratory complete with a model
flat. Courses include farm machinery, advanced pig keeping and gardening on chalk.
Miss Julia Lang, of ‘Listen with Mother’ on the radio, will speak on ‘Telling
Stories to Children’. The school is already in operation and some 315 children from
14 villages have settled in.

c.36.6

1929

J.J. Thomson lecture to Aslib – CDN 21.9.1929

c.77.3

1904

Seventeen Passive Resisters, including two magistrates were summoned at Linton for
non-payment of portions of the poor rate. They included Richard Holttum a Linton
grocer, Robert Maynard JP, engineer of Whittlesford and Egbert Gregory a
Congregational minister from Duxford. When magistrates asked John Maris, a Duxford
corn merchant, what he had to say he replied that what he wanted to say the bench
did not wish to hear – he was opposed to paying for sectarian teaching. In some
denominational schools children were taught that it was a sin to enter
Nonconformist places of worship.

c.33
Friday 1st October

1979

Cambridge Councillors want British Rail to spend £500,000 on building a footbridge

over the railway lines from Rustat Road to the railway station, and also want a
footpath from Devonshire Road to the entrance. It would assist many people who
currently have to travel long distances and now BR is about to begin
electrification they want a commitment to them. But British Rail is opposed to both
plans claiming they would bring security problems as well as affecting future land
development potential. The high cost is caused by the length of the bridge and the
difficulties building it over the mass of rail lines.

c.26.2

1954

A 78-year-old gardener was cycling across the perimeter track at Oakington RAF
Station when he was struck by a Vampire jet plane that was taxi-ing before take
off. The pilot saw the cyclist crossing the dispersal area when travelling at 25
mph. He assumed the man would look to see if anything was coming and would
certainly hear the plane. It was a rule that aircraft always had the right of way.
He added: “the cyclist took a 90 degrees turn towards me suddenly. I turned
slightly to the right and my left wing caught his neck”. All employees were
required to sign a document that under no circumstances could claims be made
against the Air Ministry in the event of accidents to and from work.

c.26.1

1929

Window slashing outbreak in St Andrew’s Street – CDN 23.9.1929

1904

William Chapman, a travelling hawker and umbrella repairer at present staying in a

caravan at the Butcher’s Arms, Newmarket Road, Cambridge told magistrates a man had
asked to drink out of his mother’s glass. When she refused he’d used bad language
and struck his wife who called out “Bill run quick, there’s a man a-beating of me”.
The man, tripped him up, got on top of him and bit his arm. Defendant, a pedlar who
was staying at the pub, said he was under the influence of drink and was sentenced
to a month’s imprisonment with hard labour. Police said they would make a full
report on the condition and management of the pub.

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

1929 NOT TYPED

Monday 4th October

1979

Robinson College, the University’s £17 million gift from the Newmarket millionaire,
Mr David Robinson, was topped out. But the man who made it all possible was not
there. He turned down the building contractor’s invitation to the celebration and
preserved his reputation as a shy, publicity-shunning benefactor. Professor Jack
Lewis, warden of the college and Prof Charles Brink the chairman of trustees were
presented with trade union cards before mounting the scaffolding. Then as an
overhead skip delivered a load of wet concrete they smoothed down a part of the
roof and planted a Union Jack. The work on site stopped whilst dons and workers
joined together for pork pies and beers.

c.44.5

1954

A new chapter in Cambridge University history has opened on an informal note at New
Hall, the third foundation for women, where the first 16 students are now in
residence. They drew lots for the rather Spartan bedrooms while a ‘combination’
room is being used for (voluntary) morning services – there is no chapel - and
other activities. A rather gloomy downstairs study room is well-equipped with desks
and chairs and nearby is an out-of-doors wringer of hefty make. “We can do our own
washing and save on laundry bills”, said Miss Angela Holder, a petite, attractive
Freshman, giving the handle an experimental turn. Miss A.R. Murray, the tutor, says
she welcomes the building – a converted guest house - as a temporary home but looks
forward to moving to Byron House in 1960

c.44.5

1929

St Andrew’s Street window slashing CDN 23.9.1929

c.83.01

Tuesday 5th October

1979

The arrival of a sex shop at Mitcham’s Corner, Cambridge has provoked protests over
the deterioration of the area’s shopping facilities. Where residents once enjoyed a
varied range of shops catering for most day-to-day needs, they now find themselves
with banks, building societies, a betting shop and winter sports stockist. A wine
shop and take-away restaurant look set to follow. The major change came at the end
of 1977 when Mitcham’s department store succumbed to the economic pressures of
shifting shopping styles.

WOMEN

1954

A man was killed when two 1,000-lb [POUND] bombs exploded at RAF Marham. The bombs
were being moved in preparation for an exercise when they fell from a trailer he
was towing with a tractor. Five other airmen were injured and nine Canberra twin-
jet bombers and one Anson aircraft were damaged. Eight of the Canberras can be
repaired on the station.

c.45.8
1929

Ouse Drainage Board tax battle at Swaffham Bulbeck CDN 26.9.1929

c.29

1904

This week the once famous Stourbridge fair has been held and the question arises,
how much does the Borough of Cambridge benefit by allowing its ground to be used
for trading purposes. Last year £30 10s. was paid in tolls but council expenditure
was £18 17s. including wages for the collectors of tolls, carriages in which the
Civic Fathers rode to the proclamation and printing bills. Then there is ‘new
copper’. That is the shining pence our benevolent Borough rules have the privileged
of hurling to crowds of children. That cost 18s. But in the case of Reach fair we
have actually to pay in hard cash for the privilege of exercising jurisdiction over
the village merrymaking and horse-dealing transactions.

c.27.3

Wednesday 6th October

1979

Prof Sir Peter Swinnerton-Dyer is the man chosen to lead Cambridge University into
what could be one of the most difficult periods of its recent history. As Vice-
Chancellor he feels the most serious and pressing problem is cash. “It is going to
be a difficult time for all universities and there’s no doubt it will be one hell
of a winter”, he said. The University has decided not to consider refilling any
more posts until after Lent term as it was impossible to forecast how the
University Grants Committee would allocate funding. While it might be possible to
run on less money it was a very difficult process indeed to get down to the lower
level of expenditure.

c.36.9

1954

An attractive demonstration theatre is now in full operation at the Eastern Gas

Board’s headquarters in Sidney Street, Cambridge where gas consumers will always be
welcome to see the latest developments in gas appliance design. Demonstrations will
be conducted by the Home Service Adviser, Shirley Snow, whose advice is readily
available either in person, by post or telephone.

1929

Green End Road land needed for housing inquiry CDN 24.9.1929

1904

Two friends met at Newmarket, one without a bicycle, one with. As they were both
returning to Cambridge they challenged each other to get there first. They started
off from the Post Office at 3.47pm; within ten minutes the first had caught a train
and was soon speeding along. Punctual to the minute it arrived in Cambridge and he
was soon rattling along in a cab. He arrived at the office at 4.40 to see the
cyclist cool and smiling waiting in another room.

c.26.485
Thursday 7th October

1979

Rampton parish council took on the giant local authorities at the Structure Plan
examination and demanded a better deal. The County Council aims to restrict
development and Rampton is scheduled as an area where only in-filling should be
allowed. But the parish councillors wanted the village to be allowed to develop
rather more. Older people were getting no younger and the young people who had no
houses to live in had to go to other villages. Reasonable development should be
encouraged or ‘our village would go’, they told inspectors

1954

Fulbourn waterworks pumping station was reopened. Beneath the pump and control
rooms is a 60,000-gallon tank. The pumps are driven by direct-current motors
capable of pumping 90,000 gallons an hour to a jet chamber where dissolved carbon-
dioxide is released, reducing corrosion. An efficient electricity supply and the
duplication of all plant renders any breakdown almost impossible. A five-million
gallon reservoir is under construction at Cherry Hinton which will bring water
reserves up to two days instead of one as at present.

c.24.2

1929

Ring Road round Cambridge & Battle of Butt Green – parking CDN 26.9.1929

c.49.62

1904

A serious fire broke out at Haverhill as a result of which the granary of Mr J.J.
Mitchell, corn merchant of Queen Street was burnt down and a large quantity of
grain completely ruined. Adjoining the premises are the stables of the Urban
District Council and the station where the hose cart of the fire-brigade are kept.
It was got out and connected and within a few minutes after the arrival of the
police and other helpers a couple of jets were playing upon the flames. Until a
fortnight ago when the destructive conflagration occurred on the premises of Mr
John Atterton, engineer, the town had been happily free from fires of much extent
for many years. Both fires were the result of incendiarism.

Friday 8th October

1979

The Old Vicarage at Grantchester, immortalised by the poetry of Rupert Brooke, is

up for sale. It is the first time since 1916 that the magnificent property has
been on the market and offers between £120,000 and £150,000 are expected. Then
Rupert Brooke’s mother bought the house as a memorial to her son and gave it to the
grandfather of the present owner saying she would like the garden kept as it was in
her son’s time. She also asked that interested visitors should on request be
allowed to look around the garden. These wishes have always been complied with and
it is hoped that a purchaser will again bear them in mind as far as practical, say
the agents in the sale brochure.

1954
Over 1,000 Civil Defence volunteers took part in Exercise Challenge on Midsummer
Common, Cambridge. The Home Secretary, Sir David Fyfe told them that if a hydrogen
bomb should fall there would be a great deal to do in the perimeter zone and the
country beyond. People who lost their homes must be fed, housed and catered for.
But outside the common a dozen members of the Cambridge Peace Front held banners
saying: ‘There is no defence against the H-bomb’

c.45.8

1929

Engineers gather – Ouse Drainage Board organisation & Isle Highways – CDN 30.9.1929

1904

Master Wee Willie M. the Waterbeach schoolboy, is a precocious child with a liking
for cigarettes. He purloined a silver watch, sold it and devoted the proceeds to
the purchase of his favourite brand. In the natural order of events he appeared
before the magistrates who remanded to an industrial school. The prospect an
exchange of the freedom of Waterbeach for the confinement of one of these dreadful
schools was not at all to his liking, so when he was packed off in a carrier’s cart
Willie made up his mind to escape at Milton and has disappeared.

CHILDREN
Looking Back by Mike Petty

1929 NOT TYPED

Monday 11th October

1979

At the Strangers performance in Cambridge Corn Exchange the punks were matched in
numbers by a fair splattering of pseudo-intellectuals and Hawkwind types. They
could remember the energy the band used to put into their shows, but now with their
softer approach the maniacal crowd response was lacking. The pulverising brutality
of ‘Death and Night and Blood’ still surges out but the Stranglers have now come of
age and command respect. “We’re trying a lot of new things, more complex, a bit of
jazz. It went OK, at least Cambridge is always a good crowd”, said Hugh Cornwell,
recalling the Corn Exchange concert two years ago when bouncers took unkindly to
being picked out by spotlights.

c.69

1954

The crowds who queued up for tickets outside Cambridge’s New Theatre put paid to
the story that Music Hall is dying. There was slap-stick comedy, Eddie Arnold with
his variety of voices, Brian Andro on the high-wire, a strong-man acrobat, Rusty –
a dog of mathematical powers, Bobby Collins – a first-rate whistler and the Lee
Youngsters, a trio of singers. The star attraction was Tony Brent, a crooner of
promise, but surely there will come a time when we shall have heard his songs just
once too often. Forthcoming attractions include Don Saunder’s Circus and Don
Lammaree and his Lone Star Road Show, Phyllis Dixey and Cinderella on Ice. If the
Cambridge public give it support then even bigger names will be attracted from
London.

c.76
1929

Ely shopping hours – to close on Fridays at 6pm CDN 30.9.29

1904

Many old people will remember the time when Newsome’s Circus was a great
institution in Cambridge. For many years they conducted a permanent circus here
and became very well known in the town, but of late years they have dropped out of
the public gaze. James Newsome is still alive – aged 80 years of age – but his wife
Pauline has just quitted the ring for ever. She died at Cleethorpes last week, at
the age of 79.

c.76 # CIRCUS

Tuesday 12th October

1979

They carry on the business of life and death at Mill Road Maternity Hospital in
what is little better than a clinical slum. Yet when the question of replacing it
comes up this week, those with the power to close it are committed to keeping it
open for another 10 years. In that time all that stands between the death of a
baby, the death of a mother, or both, is the determination of the highly-motivated
people who work there. But it snows on the patients in the X-ray department and
there is only one lavatory for a dozen pregnant women. The operating theatre needs
creosoting – it’s an ex-Army hut – and boxes, bottles and laundry-bags littler the
tunnel they call corridors.

c.21.4

1954

David James Scott, a one-time photographer whose shop became part of the Cambridge
Daily News building, has died aged 97. A partner for a time in the firm of Scott
and Wilkinson, he later became the owner. In business for 50 years he did a large
amount of work for the Cambridge and the Leys School. Mr Scott painted in oils and
watercolours; he was a keen fly fisherman and staunch Conservative Party worker.
His son, William, managed the CDN process-engraving department until his death.

c.65.5

1929

Engineers gather – drainage and highways – CDN 30.9.1929

1904

The coming winter will be one of the worst for the employment of labour known for
many years. The building trade, so important to Cambridge, is the one most
affected. The reason is in part the wave of depression that is sweeping over the
whole industrial life of the country but also because Cambridge is rapidly becoming
overbuilt. The conclusion of the new University buildings have also thrown a number
of artisans upon the labour market. We have never known so many men out of work at
this season of the year. One bright spot is that the three cement companies will
provide work for some 350 men
c.32.1
Wednesday 13th October

1979

Cambridge councillors complained that many of the city’s traffic and parking
regulations were not being enforced. One traffic warden went round the market
square issuing parking tickets to motorists who had parked on double yellow lines
but a few minutes later had a long friendly chat with the driver of an ice-cream
van parked on the same lines. The van was towing a trailer which did not have any
numberplates or lights. But police say the traffic warden force was only half its
proper strength of 36 officers, two of whom were in office jobs.

1954

The old Royston Brewery premises in Baldock Street, used until recently by an
engineering firm, have been acquired by Messrs Barratt’s, the well-known
confectioners. The firm say they will start in a small way by packing goods made in
their factory at Wood Green but will develop the site if the demand for their goods
continues. The initial requirements will be for women labour for packing but men
will be required if they start manufacturing there. “We like the look of Royston
and feel sure we shall soon settle down and become accepted as one of the family”,
they say.

1929

Cambridge parking place problems – CDN 1.10.1929

1904

A disastrous fire occurred at Histon when the Green Hill public house was totally
destroyed. It was a quaint old house with a thatched roof and was occupied by
Albert Gawthrop who also carries on the business of a grocer and baker. One room of
the house had been converted into a grocer’s shop, while a bakehouse was in the
rear. The fire was caused by a spark from a neighbouring chimney being blown on to
the roof. A number of employees of Messrs Chivers were sent to assist together with
a vanload of buckets. They did excellent work until the arrival of the Chesterton
Fire Brigade. All that remains is a heap of ruins with the chimney rising from the
centre.

c.34.75

Thursday 14th October

1979

Cambridge Consultants on the Science Park have spent nine years developing ink jet
printing, opening up new frontiers. They have carried out trials on surfaces
ranging from the petals of an orchid to the roughest grade of sandpaper and have
developed systems able to produce 50,000 lines of text a minute on fast-moving
surfaces up to two metres wide. Their work is attracting world-wide interest and
has already been put to commercial use.

1954

The Minister of Education has refused to allow funding for a new school for Milton,
but one new classroom will be built. There will also be building at Babraham,
Histon and Cheveley while Harston is growing fast and a pre-fabricated classroom
would be constructed. The position at Kennett shows how quickly a development plan
was out-dated. The roll at this single-roomed school has risen from 14 to 27 and
would continue to increase. Negotiations would start to purchase the premises now
held on lease and plans for an extension prepared.

1929

Should parking places be free – CDN 3.10.1929

c.26.48

1904

During the next few days some 800 to 1,000 young men will be coming into residence
at Cambridge University. One of the first things they will notice is the number of
people who are anxious to recommend them to tailors or robemakers. These people
draw five shillings commission for each customer recommended. The fresher will also
find in his room a number of ‘necessities’ from other tradesmen. If he keeps these
his ‘bedder’ draws the commission he had to pay. There are many tradesmen who do
not indulge in this kind of touting and young men are advised to go straight to
their tutor to find the best traders to deal with.

c.27 # c.36.9

Friday 15th October

1979

Tesco’s superstore at Bar Hill is to open on Mondays following a switch to six-day

trading by Sainsbury’s supermarkets. The store says that it was demand from
customers living in the local community which had led to the move: “Since we have
been here we have tried to blend in with the community”, said their Public
Relations Director. “We really owe it to everyone here to provide the service they
want”. Tesco’s store in Regent Street Cambridge already opens on Mondays.

1954

The new Church of England School at Elsworth was formally opened. It consists of
three classrooms, a hall, staffroom, kitchen and offices and stands on a site of
over two acres where a large playing field is being laid out in a setting of
particular charm. A building of attractive dimensions and pleasing appearance in
brown brick and timbered roof, outstanding features include maximum window lighting
and excellent practical furnishing. It replaced old parish schools at Boxworth,
Conington and Knapwell where children from the age of five to eleven had been
taught by only one teacher. This was not a good thing; there should be two or three
to make teaching efficient.

c.36.6

1929

CDN new block-making process for photos – CDN 3.10.1929

c.04

1904

The first step towards the abolition of Fulbourn Feast from the street was reached
at a public meeting. The booths and stalls standing in the road were a great
nuisance. The people in the caravans were not of the better class; they were a
dirty lot and their sanitary arrangements were very bad. Little bags of filth were
left about the street and proved very objectionable. Fulbourn was a respectable and
clean village and it was a disgrace they should have such a state of things. No one
could abolish the Feast altogether; they could have feasts every day on private
premises. What they wanted was to abolish the feast in the street.

c.27.3 # FEAST

Looking Back 1929 stories to be added

Monday 13th October

1929

Ely Traders have decided to revert ‘for ever’ to the usual closing hour of six
o’clock on Fridays, instead of seven as at present. Although they have benefited by
the extra hour during ‘summer time’ it would not outset the extra cost of heating
and lighting which would be necessary when the Daylight Savings Bill ceased to
operate. Some shopkeepers were staying open after the legal hours – that was after
eight o’clock and nine on Saturdays

Tuesday 12th October

1929

An outbreak of window scratching has occurred in Cambridge over the weekend.

Shopkeepers along St Andrew’s Street discovered with disgust that scratches and
scrawls which had not been there when the shops closed. On some of the windows
grooves have been cut, apparently with a diamond. Among the worst affected are
Johnson Bros dyers, Flack and Judge grocers, G.P. Hawkings confectioners and the
Ideal Cleaning Company. Marks of a previous outbreak of a more serious nature are
still to be seen on many shop windows in Regent Street

Wednesday 13th October

1929

Cambridge Town Council were asked to pay a Landbeach smallholder for the loss of
his horse. It had slipped on the surface of East Road after a shower, and was
killed. The Corporation declined to accept responsibility but it was suggested that
a subscription list should be opened to which individual councillors would be
pleased to subscribe. This was done with the result that the owner will receive £13
[THIRTEEN POUNDS], £3 [THREE POUNDS] more than had been suggested

Thursday 14th October

1929

Cambridge Labour Party was told that if they wanted Butts Green as a parking place
they must be prepared to face the question: ‘Are you in favour of free parking?’
They could not charge for cars on common land. Councillor Stubbs said there was no
more objection to free parking than to free recreation. He personally objected to
paying rates and then being charged for parking his ‘Rolls’. Would residents in New
Square like to have the noise and smell of the motors?

Friday 15th October

1929

The Cambridge Daily News has now installed a new and up-to-date block-making plant
which will enable us to publish pictures of important events on the same day. It
has all the apparatus necessary for the production of ‘blocks’, both line and half-
tone – those from which newspaper photographs are printed

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 18th October

1979

So successful is a small Cambridge publishing concern that its latest title, ‘The
Small Publisher’, tells people how to follow its own example. Husband-and-wife
librarians Philip and Audrey Ward started the Oleander Press from their home in
January 1975 and their ‘secret’ is sheer dedication. Both are prepared to work each
day as long as necessary, often up to 80 or 90 hours a week. They have a list of 10
titles on Arabia and have published 28 books about Cambridge but realise this
source of material must now be running out

c.25

1954

P.C. Newling said he was on duty outside the Red Ballroom in Cambridge when he saw
two U.S. military policemen come out of the ballroom with an American serviceman in
civilian clothes who they wanted to interview in connection with an incident
inside. Then another man came out who started to intervene and became
argumentative. This man told the court: “I had a drink or two and was talking to an
American and it got a bit arguey. Then two military policemen came and took the guy
out for no reason at all. I wasn’t going to fight, I just went to explain”. He was
fined £1. [ONE POUND]

c.45.8

1929

Many Cambridge people were among the thousands who saw the R101 at Cardington
during her final tests. Every approach to Bedford was thronged with cars and
cyclists, many of them from great distances. During the worst of the traffic there
was a three-mile queue of almost stationary cars. Nearly 150,000 cars passed the
mooring post and filling stations did a roaring trade. Many sold out of petrol.
Hotel keepers had reason to be thankful for the presence of the great airship,
while picnickers lined practically every road.

c.26.1

1904

The apathetic manner with which the Cambridge public have received the important
decision of the council in regard to tramways does not display that healthy
interest in matters municipal which ought to prevail. The terms upon which the
streets should be handed over to a private traction company were settled without
keen controversy and public excitement. They were passed by a ‘holiday’ council and
only one letter on the subject has since appeared in the press. This public
indifference is difficult to explain.

c.26.44

Tuesday 19th October

1979

This year, at the Royal Albert Hall, the Cambridge Band competes for the first time
against the elite of the brass band world in the national championships.
“Qualifying for the final is a tremendous achievement” said Philip Biggs. Their
remarkable climb to the top began back in 1974 when David Read, one of the
outstanding solo cornet players in the country, was appointed musical director.
Since then it has regularly broadcast for the BBC, made its television debut and
next month will record its first LP disc.

c.69

1954

Cambridge housewives are looking forward to their first unrationed Christmas for 14
years, but there may still be a few shortages. Currants will be as expensive than
sultanas but raisins, up to one shilling and fourpence a pound will be plentiful.
Those who remember Valencia’s, those luscious raisins from Spain will welcome their
return. There will be plenty of glace cherries for the cake but they will cost a
little more. Almonds are the nuts to be snapped up as soon as they appear. For
those who can afford the luxury there will be real butter in the cake and rum and
brandy butter for the pudding. Americans are willing to pay more than we are, and
that explains the Christmas shortage.

1929

It was a red-letter day in the history of the Ely Co-operative Society when their
magnificent new premises were opened. The old and dismal-looking premises in Broad
Street have been superseded by a most modern and up-to-date business establishment.
The design is Georgian in character, the front is reconstructed stone, the shop
fronts are of teak and the window backs are oak. A large proportion of modern
quick-service fixtures and counters have been installed and the comfort and
convenience of both customers and staff have been furnished in every way. The
premises are centrally-heated with electric light installed throughout.

c.27.2

1904

Lord George Sanger’s circus is billed to appear at Newmarket and ordinarily such
announcements are welcomed. But on this occasion it has given rise of alarm as one
of the circus horses has been slaughtered owing to its being affected with
glanders, the disease most dreaded by horse keepers on account of its highly
contagious and infectious properties. Newmarket is home to many valuable racehorses
and the circus site was at the Severalls, a site much frequented by racehorses. The
News has approached a veterinary expert who says that if Government precautions had
been undertaken there was probably no danger. But council officers will examine the
horses at Sudbury before they arrive.

CIRCUS

Wednesday 20th October

1979

Cambridge University Radio returns to the air this term, bent on beaming its
jingles into more colleges. So far only members of Churchill College can tune in
their transistors to university radio but now they need to expand the service.
After months of delay the station started operating on May 1st with a wake-up
programme of music and news. Now they want to get Fitzwilliam and Jesus College
into the service this academic year. But their Home Office licence does not allow
transmission beyond college confines which means using a large number of
transmitters emitting low strength signals.

c.27.8

1954

There is a pressing need for better slaughtering facilities in Cambridge; in 1953

the Ministry approved the provision of a municipal slaughterhouse to be operated by
the council in co-operation with the University and the Department of Scientific
Research whereby facilities would be made available for lecturing and research. But
there was opposition to the proposed slaughtering charge of £1.10 [ONE POUND TEN
SHILLING] per cattle unit. Now there is a proposal for the formation of a private
company to erect and operate a municipal slaughterhouse.

1929

The imposition of a one-way traffic in Petty Cury is not news, but a good many
people are under the impression that they can ride either way after eight o’clock
at night. This is not so. The actual regulation, which was adopted in October 1924,
says that Market Street and Petty Cury will be one-way streets only. Obviously
there would be great dangers in adopting a resolution for the day-time and changing
it at night, especially in such a main thoroughfare. For although business vans may
be off the road there is often plenty of other traffic on the occasion of concerts
at the Guildhall or dinners at the Lion Hotel.

c.49.62

1904

Is the local Passive Resistance movement becoming monotonous even to the Resisters
themselves? Are they tired to attending farcical sales, at which fictitious bids
having been made by non-existent buyers, the goods are tamely knocked down to their
owners? The poor attendance at the sale at Cambridge Corn Exchange certainly
suggests it for it was a very dull and dreary affair; not more than 30 people
attended and some displayed such a languid interest that they left before the
conclusion.

c.33

Thursday 21st October

1979

The Cambridgeshire Area Health Authority has reaffirmed its decision to close the
Grange Maternity Unit at Ely, despite protests. The closure of the ten-bed general
practitioner unit has been under consideration for years but delays and
disagreements have left its future in limbo. But there was little comment when the
authority overwhelmingly decided to go ahead with the closure. It could be the
first of many unpalatable decisions they have to take over the next two years.
1954

The Emperor of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie, watched excitedly as a Hunter aircraft did
a 705 mph speed run 50 feet above him at Duxford. Without a word the phantom-like
plane dived over the Emperor, and then came its booming report which clearly
startled him. Earlier he had inspected a Spitfire used in the Battle of Britain but
was far more interested in a modern Meteor; he insisted on climbing into the
machine and asked many questions. After the display and much saluting and
handshakes, the Emperor, a quiet and retiring figure, got into his car and headed
for the Imperial Ethiopian Embassy.

c.02

1929

The new organ was dedicated at Castle Street Primitive Methodist church, Cambridge.
The need for was felt as far back as 1923 and an effort started to replace the old
organ, which was showing signs of ‘disease’. The opening ceremony was performed by
Mrs John Few who unlocked the new organ with a silver key. There was a recital by
Dr Alan Gray at which the church was crowded to capacity. The installation has cost
£727 and with the church and schoolroom renovations there is a liability of about
£1,000

c.83.06

1904

The Wesleyans have added another to their places of worship by opening a new chapel
in Church Street, Chesterton. It is the successor of a building in the High Street
which during the latter period of its existence has been difficult to reconcile
with conventional ideas of what a place of worship should be. Though doubtless
hallowed in the memory of many its defects were numerous. Mr B.C. Jolley provided a
piece of land upon which building operations began a few months ago. The architect
adopted a Queen Anne style and the result is a pleasing-looking building with an
appearance more domestic than ecclesiastical.

c.83.06

Friday 22nd October

1979

A network of early five warning flood devices is expected to be ready for the
danger period early in the New Year. They will measure water levels and
automatically give an up-to-date picture of the possibility of floods. But it could
costs £40,000 to carry out a major flood protection scheme at Stretham which was
badly hit by floods in May that were caused by blockages in the drainage system.
More money must be spent on the Bin Brook which was blamed for flooding in the
Gough Way area of Cambridge but maintenance problems must be solved before the work
goes ahead

c.29

1954

Imagine a Hydrogen bomb has been dropped on Cambridge. In a five-mile radius from
Great Shelford to Histon everything is just rubble. In a 12-mile radius, including
Saffron Walden, Newmarket and Huntingdon, there is severe damage and for 20 miles,
as far as Bishop’s Stortford, there is minor damage. Blast and heat flash from the
bomb could also cause severe burns to people exposed in the open and if the bomb
exploded on the ground or in water mud thrown up would be very radio-active and
would be carried for many, many miles. But if an ‘ordinary’ atom bomb was dropped
the centre of destruction would be only a half-mile radius.

c.45.8

1929

Some authorities have been recovering useful matter from old tin cans and something
could be done in Cambridge. Soft metal articles – tubes and tinfoil – are already
collected by the authorities of Addenbrooke's and there are persons who collect
bottles and jars. But tinned articles seem not to be regarded as anything but mere
waste. A start on a small scale would need hardly any capital but how to dispose of
it is the problem.

c.29.8

1904

Cambridge used to be famous for its ‘characters’ and even to this day can point to
some human curiosities, including a hibernating man. When winter approaches he
copies the dormouse and spends all the day in bed. He is supplied with newspapers
and only descends at night when he raids the larder. It is not desirable to
indicate his whereabouts lest he be carried off bodily by some enterprising
showman. We cannot lose such a novelty.

c.39
Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 25th October

1979

Cambridge Corn Exchange may be turned into a civic restaurant. The old one in Petty
Cury was demolish amid a public outcry nearly eight years ago to make way for the
Lion Yard redevelopment. It was started during the Second World War under the
Government’s British Restaurant plans for providing cheap meals and was continued
by the council. It became something of a social centre and meeting place for many
old people with nowhere to go during the day.

1954

A new pumping station was opened at Kingston. The first bore hole had been sunk by
the old East Hunts Water Company in 1934. It was altered for R.A.F. purposes at the
beginning of the last war and in 1943 the Chesterton and St Ives Joint Water Board
was formed. Three years ago permission was obtained from the Ministry and the
present buildings started. The original water supply came from Bourn from a station
that was built in 1900 and the next erected at Longstanton in 1930. Now with the
ever-increasing demand for water had come the new station.

c.24.2

1929

“There is much to be said for narrow streets with ancient houses and I consider a
Town Council which destroys these houses in order to make its streets broader is
acting with great folly”, the University Vice Chancellor told members of the Town
Planning Institute. In certain Italian cities there was a rule enforcing motorists
to leave their cars outside and proceed into the town on foot. Anybody who
suggested such a thing in this country would be cried down as a faddist, but it was
a practical proposition. “Of course I don’t think I should like to see people
stopping four miles out of Cambridge”, he added.

c.49.62

1904

A devastating fire broke out on Charles Parker’s farm near the church at Bottisham,
in the most thickly populated part of the village. Had there been a strong wind it
would be impossible to calculate the extent of the damage for there are 20 cottages
close at hand. Police constable Whitwood, who is stationed at Swaffham, noticed a
bright reflection in the sky and at once mounted his cycle, losing no time in
reaching the scene while PC’s Salmon and Driver ran from the direction of Fulbourn.
The old manual engine which is stored at the Police Station was requisitioned and
proved useful, despite its age. It is dated 1796 and was repaired by the Parish
Council in 1897.

c.34.75

Tuesday 26th October

1979

Time-travelling Dr Who and his companion Romana arrived in Cambridge to meet a

university ‘professor’. Tom Baker and Lalia Ward, who play the characters, acted
out the meeting as part of the latest Dr Who adventures. A BBC film unit is
recording location shots for the six-part story to be called ‘Shada’ which is being
made for viewing next year. It opens with the Doctor punting along the Cam and
encountering the villain, Skagra, played by ‘Colditz’ star Christopher Neame. The
famous Tardis time-capsule is likely also to play a part. It was safely tied down
in the back of a removal van in a Cambridge hotel car park.

c.27.82

1954

Those tiresome meddlers, the planners, are in full cry again. Now signs outside
businesses – some of which have been in position for many years – are being
challenged. The trouble arises under that wretched 1947 Planning Act whereby
certain parts of a town can be scheduled an Area of Special Control. This limits
the size of outside advertisements. No one would wish the City centre to be a
Piccadilly Circus but I see no reason why a recognised commercial section should
not have these cheerful aids to business. This ‘planomania’ is becoming
unreasonable.

1929

Opinion was divided on the wisdom of planting 11 acres of trees at West Wratting.
The County Council had purchased the land in 1915 and for ten years it had shown a
profit. The value of timber that could be grown was estimated at £3,000 in 50 years
time. But some said the land was not fit to plant with trees, it was one mass of
filth and in four years not one tree would be alive. Nearby smallholders would be
prevented from farming

1904
An additional cabman’s shelter was opened on the ground floor of Cambridge
Guildhall in a room formerly used as a temporary police office. There is a stove
where for a small payment a man will warm food brought by the cabmen and will also
sell tea, coffee and light refreshments. It is comfortably furnished, a few
pictures as well as flowers being among the adornments. All cabmen will welcome the
shelter where they can dry their clothes in wet weather

c.26.48

Wednesday 27th October

1979

Chief Supt Jock Proctor who did the most to contain the drugs problem in Cambridge
retires from the police in December. In 1966 he formed a Drugs Squad to combat what
was then a new and growing problem. Other agencies joined to set up a proper
containment procedure which has been copied elsewhere. It was unheard of in those
days for police, social workers and psychiatrists to meet together with addicts,
parents and the clergy but soon a basis of trust was established and worried
parents would take their youngsters to a police station for advice, rather than
prosecution.

DRUGS

1954

Railway engines seem to be making a habit of running off the lines into the cottage
garden of the crossing keeper at Coldham’s Lane, Cambridge. For the second time in
recent months a goods locomotive has gone astray there when the engine travelling
light (without wagons) made a mess of his well-kept plot. The large crane used in
lifting the heavy vehicle was brought to the scene and the engine was lifted back
on to the line. Dislocation to other traffic was very light.

c.26.2

1929

For 25 years the parishioners of Soham have been aiming to possess a church hall
and at last it was formally opened. The building is a credit to the town; it is
capable of seating 350 people and has a kitchen. Chairs have been obtained by
voluntary subscriptions but a piano and billiards table is still required. There
might be tennis courts or a bowling green alongside. The site had been bought in
1912 but then the shadow of the Great War prevented them proceeding until last
year.

1904

An inquiry was held at the Black Bull Inn, Earith on the death of a labourer. He
lived at Over and had thirteen children but suffered from nervousness ever since he
lost a son aged 21 by small-pox in London. He would often be muttering and talking
to himself and sometimes took too much beer. He rambled about from village to
village for eight or nine days at a time. A man who was fishing at Over Staunch saw
his body on the bed of the river. It was brought to Earith on a plank in a boat and
put in the outhouse where it was viewed by the jury. They returned a verdict ‘Found
drowned’
Thursday 28th October

1979

Planning permission for Littleport’s controversial Sunday market has been rejected.
It has been held at Padnal Fen since April. Market traders erect between 100 and
150 stalls and about 3,500 people are attracted each Sunday with about 1,000 cars
using the car park. But lavatories are ‘atrociously bad’. The District Council is
trying to regenerate industrial and economic growth in Littleport which is a ‘dying
village’ and the market could be extremely destructive, one councillor claimed.

1954

The Cambridge Adventure Playgrounds Committee was launched. Children spent too much
time idle. There should be a revival of interest in playgrounds which were what the
children really wanted and not what the parents though they should have. The space
should be used to best advantage, but there was trouble with the planners who, with
their passion for tidiness, ironed out the places where the children could play and
planted geranium beds there instead. Children needed an indefinite number of
different types of playground for there was a variety of things they wanted to do,
from free activity to pulling things down and building them up again.

CHILDREN

1929

Performances of the talkie ‘College Love’ at the Central Cinema, Cambridge, were
marred by undergraduates. The Manager admitted that to show such a film at the
beginning of term was unfortunate. The undergraduates meet old pals, have drinks
together and get more exuberant than usual. They were also resentful at the
American features introduced into college life as they know it. Scenes of a match
corresponding to Rugby were greeted with many ‘cat-calls’ while nobody expects
undergraduates to remain silent during the portrayal of anything in the amorous
line. The cinema has a special telephone by which the volume of extraneous noise is
gauged by an operator. He had occasion to request several of the disturbers to
remain quieter.

c.76.9

1904

Cambridge councillors received a memorial from residents regarding the triangular

piece of ground in Tenison Road. They appreciated the tasteful manner in which it
had been laid out but considered that it should remain enclosed. The space was so
limited it could not be used for any kind of recreation but would undoubtedly be
the scene of misconduct by certain persons. If it were thrown open the trees and
flowers would be damaged and the cost of upkeep would be considerably increased.

Friday 29th October

1979

The Government has stopped the County Council from closing Cambridge’s Park Street
Primary School because of its ‘value to the community’. But plans to close
Brunswick Primary School have been approved. This is a great disappointment for
parents who campaigned vigorously to keep it open. Nearly £800,000 has been
earmarked to convert the buildings into a further education centre. The County will
accept the ruling but the number of children attending both schools had dropped and
the problems will not go away. Now much harder decisions will have to be made that
will affect schools throughout the city.

1954

There has been some loss of historic buildings in Cambridgeshire, especially the
medieval Beaupre Hall near Outwell. Messrs J.W. Green has uncovered the fine
medieval timber frame of the Royal Oak public house at Barrington, though they took
away the Jacobean bay window which had been added when the hall was divided to give
an upper floor. The post mill on Madingley Hill has been taken over by David
Robinson and would form a charming centre to his racing establishment. Bourn Mill
has been very carefully repaired and braced by the Cambridge Preservation Society

1929

Two cottages in Middle Street, Stretham were gutted by a fire which was caused by a
firework thrown by a boy descending on the thatched roof. So quickly did the flames
spread that the whole roof was soon ablaze and fell in. Nearby blacksmiths Mr Lowe
and Mr Crow rendered valuable assistance but a fire extinguisher obtained from the
Rectory proved useless. The fire brigade connected their hose to the village pond
about a quarter of a mile away, which owing to the drought was very low. They were
unable to use the engine at full strength for fear of blocking the hose with mud.

1904

Mr Pierpont Morgan, the American millionaire, has leased for five years the estate
of the late Mr Hall at Six-Mile-Bottom together with the shooting which was held by
the late Duke of Cambridge for so many years. It is believed Mr Morgan will reside
on the estate. The shooting is excellent and in all probability large parties will
be held there each season. Such parties have been frequently graced with the
presence of the King and other members of the Royal Family

c.61.7

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 1st November

1979

In the past fifteen years the number of people aged 65 or over has risen by a
million and a half. By 1986 there will be 24 per cent more over-75’s than now.
National policy has been to encourage old people to lead as independent an old age
as they can with as much help as they need on hand. Back-up services must be
provided. But the County Councils say that neither centre or local government
should promise more than can be delivered and, faced with the need to prune their
budgets, they have imposed restrictions on home help services and charges for
meals-on-wheels and lunches at day centres.

1954

An inquiry was held into plans for a 14-acre pit at Milton; it would produce much-
needed gravel and the workings would be useful as rubbish tips. The owner had taken
it to provide sand for his roofing tiles business and owned it for 25 years. He
would keep it under agriculture as long as possible and it would take 20 years
before the mine covered all the land. But the county council said Milton was an
expanding village and needed a recreation ground. Householders petitioned against
it saying the pit was not wanted at Milton

1929

Cambridge did not become a munitions-manufacturing area on the outbreak of the

Great War. The consequence was that its full quota of men joined the ranks and left
the district. Now, ten years after the Armistice, we are being reminded that
hundreds of baby boys and girls did not come into the world at all. There is now a
real lack of errand boys with 60 employers seeking them. This will create a serious
position for shopkeepers in years to come. About 100 domestic vacancies for girls
are also waiting to be filled. If the school-leaving age is raised the difficulties
will be increased.

c.32.1

1904

Sir – the village feast is a danger to health with the carrying of infection from
village to village from the sweets eaten, from the want of cleanliness among the
van dwellers and the absence of sanitary appliances. A ‘test your strength’
appliance was erected opposite a house in which a poor woman lies dying. The
friends appealed to the owner not to use it because of the constant ear-splitting
noise. Did this appeal influence the good feeling of the feastman? Not a bit of it
and the noise continued without ceasing the whole evening. Is it right this kind of
thing should continue? – F.L. Nicholls, Fulbourn

FEAST

Tuesday 2nd November

1979

Long Road Sixth Form College in Cambridge is desperately short of places where
students can study. At any time there are likely to be 70 or 80 students free for
private study and many of them work in one of the college’s corridors since the
library can cope with only 40 at the most. It also has a large empty room below a
new science laboratory. Now it is falling back on the time-honoured method of
asking parents to help raise money to carpet and furnish it. But some say that if
parents help to provide the money for essential services it will encourage the
local education authority to shift the responsibility to them.
1954

The ultra-modern Bassingbourn Village College which will be the focal point of
cultural and social life for 11 Cambridgeshire villages was officially opened by
the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Mr R.A. Butler. It is the first village college to
be opened since the war; seven more are planned and sites already acquired at
Swavesey and Soham. It would help to stop the drift away from agricultural to
industrial areas which might seriously upset the economic balance of the country. A
crowd of villagers gathered to watch the arrivals and a detachment of police were
on duty to deal with about 250 cars which choked the entrance to the school and
overflowed on to the approach road.

c.36.6

1929

Cambridge councillors will discuss swapping a portion of Butt Green running

alongside Victoria Avenue from Jesus Lane towards the river. It would be
surrendered to Jesus College and would be fenced, although a footpath would be
made. In exchange they would get New Square which would then be converted into a
motor car park, together with two acres of land off Auckland Road which would be
thrown into Midsummer Common and a small piece of land in front of the new
Brunswick School buildings.

c.32.3

1904

A covey of five partridges flew into the yard of the Crown Hotel, Royston, where
four of them were promptly caught. It is not unusual for a stray bird to wander
into town but a covey rarely leave the open country. The birds may have been
frightened by a shooting party or impelled by hunger and attracted by the straw in
the stable yard. They formed a welcome addition to the table of the hotel.

Wednesday 3rd November

1979

Eighteen months ago you could buy a reasonable-sized plot of land outside Cambridge
for about £5,000; now the figure is about £11,000. In the city a plot in the De
Freville Road area has doubled to over £20,000 and an unbuilt site off Hills Road
recently went for £23,000. Land is very scarce and plots generally go for auction.
These prices reflect inflation and the present generation of people who are
building their own houses is likely to be the last. Hereafter it will be an
undertaking only for the very rich. The burden of loan interest at around 17 per
cent adds to an anxious business and even after tax relief interest charges will be
£6 a day.

c.06

1954

Miller’s music shop has transformed its Sidney Street Cambridge premises with an
up-to-date, spacious and extremely attractive front of an entirely unique design.
The windows are non-reflective and the lower ground floor, which is so popular with
record lovers but previously almost completely hidden way, now has a mirrored view
from the street. You can now pause in your shopping and look in the window, whether
it be the television set your husband has promised the family for Christmas
or one of the many different instruments on display.

c.27.2 # c.44.6

1929

Sir – a young one-legged tramp was struggling into town on his crutches when he was
asked by a Universityman where he was bound. “Cambridge workhouse”, he replied
whereupon the Varsityman at once called a taxi and accompanied him there. Having
rung the bell for ten minutes and received no reply the student scaled the 10-foot
spiked railing, took the gate key from the porter’s lodge, opened the entrance
gates and led the tramp into the lodge where he seated him in a comfortable chair
and was driven away. One can imagine the surprise of the night porter arriving some
minutes afterwards – C.F. Lewis

c.32.9

1904

For a number of years Cambridge has been without a troupe of minstrels and the idea
was mooted of reviving the old X.L.C.R. Minstrels who performed about 14 years ago.
The new company is composed chiefly of employees of the University Press. The band
comprises nine performers and the chorus and singers provide ample testimony of the
excellent training of Mr Stanley Spring. It appears to have a promising future.

c.69

Thursday 4th November

1979

A Cambridge archaeologist has suggested spreading tin tacks on important sites to

deter treasure hunters from using metal detectors. The argument has flared up
because of a new book which lists hundreds of treasure hunting sites. One entry
reads: “Traces of an ancient maze can be detected on what used to be the village
green in the playground of a Cambridgeshire school”. The book advises people to
seek permission from the landowner before setting foot on a site, but the County
Council has already banned metal detectors from their land.

1954

The old Shire Hall Assize courts no longer existed; it had been pulled down. That
could not be altered; it was down and a new one had to be built, councillors were
told. The Judges appreciate the temporary accommodation but occasionally inquire
when the Assizes are expected to be held once more in the re-built Courts; they
might get tired of waiting for them. We did not want to lose Cambridge as an Assize
town. A proposal to defer their erection for two years was withdrawn but tenders
will not be submitted for a year.

c.34.9

1929
The 17 miles of river between Ely and Denver Sluice is in an appalling condition:
it literally stinks and is covered with dead fish throughout its length. What was a
beautiful river now resembles a sewer. When a barge passes it stirs up the water
and the stench is horrible. It is a serious menace to public health for it is the
only water supply for the cottages and farms above Littleport Bridge. The pollution
is caused by the poisonous effluent discharged from the sugar beet factories. One
has no wish to cripple the beet industry but this cannot be allowed to continue.

c.29.4

1904

A Cambridgeshire boy who commenced life under inauspicious circumstances is now, at

the age of 16, lying in the country gaol charged with attempted murder. He was
abandoned when an infant and brought up under workhouse rule until 13 when he was
engaged upon a secluded farm at Coleseed Drove in the neighbourhood of March. But
one morning the farmer heard screams and found his wife smothered in blood with
terrible wounds about the head. One of his children said, between sobs, ‘Your new
boy hit mamma with a big pole’. When questioned the lad replied ‘She did not treat
me well. She would not speak to me’

c.34.6

Friday 5th November

1979

The painful birth of the Cambridge Symphony Orchestra, its troublesome and
expensive babyhood and the attempt to revive it a year ago may not all have been in
vain. A big rethink since the last series of concerts lost money has resulted in a
new concept and structure. Promising but inexperienced musicians may find it more
difficult to get a place in the revamped orchestra and players failing to live up
to higher standards will be gradually replaced. The result may be East Anglia’s
first fully professional orchestra, backed by individuals and businesses from
London to Hunstanton.

c.69

1954

Flying saucers on Parker’s Piece and water-skiing in academic dress on the Cam.
These are part of the many weird and wonderful things that will happen when the
University Poppy Day raggers get going. Saturday is always an important shopping
day in Cambridge and all shoppers are advised to carry large amounts of coppers
with them – just in case they are stopped by the revellers.

1929

With the passing of Mrs Eliza Jane Mason of the Livingstone Hotel, Petty Cury,
Cambridge has lost a prominent member of the restaurant business. She commenced
business with a university lodging house on Market Hill which became known as
‘Masons’ and was converted into a restaurant. It was largely used by cadets and
catered for the officers stationed here during the Great War. Almost the first
Belgian wounded soldiers were billeted there and she acted as a sort of nursing
mother to them. Her next move was to Sadd’s before she bought the Livingstone Hotel
which was then only a coffee house. It is now one of the best commercial hotels in
Cambridge. She also built the Rendezvous, Magrath Avenue as a skating rink in 1909.
c.27.4

1904

A London court was told that complainant’s son had an infatuation for the
defendant’s daughter, a young actress now acting at Cambridge, and was engaged to
be married to her. Her parents were not favourable to the match but the girl left
their house and went to live with her intended husband’s parents. Since then the
young couple, both under age, had had the banns published in church but owing to
the parents’ objections the marriage was not proceeded with. However on hearing
that the girl had been married her mother went to the house and demanded to see the
‘marriage lines’ before labouring the complainant about the head with her umbrella,
breaking the weapon into two pieces.

WOMEN

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 8th November

1979

Guilden Morden villagers have complained that the rubbish bags they are being
issued with by dustmen were rubbish: as soon as you tie a knot in the top and lift
them up it spills out everywhere. Now they have been asked to take part in a survey
of other types of bags. They will receive samples of various rival makes and put
them through rigorous testing to find a better bag.

1954

Police helmets will be treasured possession in the homes of undergraduates and

Cambridge ‘Teddy-Boys’ who contributed to the Guy Fawkes Night high jinks. One
police constable, helmet-less, went back to base for another. But in double-quick
time this went too! Frequent clashes broke out between police and revellers. In
Market Square a crowd of more than 5,000 screamed, shouted, pushed and laughed but
it was ‘good natured fooling’. “Teddy” girls screamed at each bang, unsuspecting
undergraduates were pounced on by Proctors and ‘Bulldogs’ and there were boos and
hisses each time an untidy-looking urchin was led away, and each time the urchin
would protest his innocence of throwing any fireworks.

c.39 # c.36.9 # BONFIRE

1929

Nearly thirty arrests were made during a Guy Fawkes ‘Rag’ on Cambridge Market Hill.
Early in the evening an attempt was made to light at bonfire in Petty Cury and
there was a considerable blaze in front of Falcon Yard before the police noticed it
and it was extinguished. In Rose Crescent an effigy was soaked with petrol, stuffed
with fireworks and deposited near the Market Hill end. This was quickly
extinguished and the effigy confiscated, but the petrol continued to burn for a
long time afterwards. A new feature of the scrimmages was the use of police
whistles by undergraduates which added to the confusion.
c.39 # c.36.9

1904

The results of the fifth of November ‘rag’ in Cambridge were more or less serious
injuries to two policemen, considerable damage to private property and several
police-court summonses. A little boy engaged in firing a squib in the midst of a
‘ragging’ party proceeding along Jesus Lane was knocked down by a cyclist and
rendered insensible. Fortunately he was soon revived by a number of undergraduates
who at once attended to him. One man fainted and another was admitted to Hospital
suffering from injuries to the head caused by his being knocked down by a cab.

c.34.6 # c.36.9 # c.39

Tuesday 9th November

1979

The Panos Restaurant in Hills Road, Cambridge, opened three weeks ago and provides
an excellent cabaret - Panos Antoniou who is owner, cook and sometimes waiter. When
not employed behind the counter, charcoal grilling the juicy, tender steaks for
which this restaurant will soon become famous (mark my words), he spreads himself
over a chair at a vacant table and puffs a cigar, keeping up relentless badinage
with the diners. It is pricey – a bottle of house wine was £2.85 and Scotch steak
au poivre vert, £5.95 with coffee at 45p for an inexhaustible potful – but
considering the high quality the damage did not seem that unkind.

1954

There was absolute chaos in Cambridge as traffic was held up to allow Dick Turpin,
complete with Bonny Black Bess, to go galloping through the streets. Outside
Emmanuel College a Flying Bedstead made periodical attempts to get airborne while a
gent dressed as an arm of the law directed traffic into Downing Street, whether
cars and cyclists wanted to go or not. In Sidney Street traffic was halted when the
“Vice-Chancellor’s” procession walked slowly down the centre of the road, complete
with pick-axes and shovels slung over their shoulders. It was part of the Poppy Day
Rag.

RAG

1929

A sheep farmer, who became annoyed on Guy Fawkes night at being mistaken for an
undergraduate, was summonsed for assaulting the Senior Proctor, Mr Frederick Dykes.
He testified that he had been with his constables when he sent one after an
undergraduate who attempted to evade him. He then heard a shout of ‘Get the
Proctor’ and felt two blows on his head. One of his constables seized the man now
in the dock. Defendant said he was a stranger to Cambridge and had been told that
if he followed the proctors round he would see some fun. He was not dressed like an
undergraduate. He was fined £3.

BONFIRE # c.36.9

1904

Damage was sustained at Quy caused by youths who cherished a desire to celebrate
the ‘Fifth’ in a manner more realistic than by a common pyrotechnics display. A
stack of mustard seed on Caius Farm provided the fuel for a blaze and was utterly
destroyed. Stacks on the Stuntney Road at Ely also caught fire. It was noticed by
some boys standing on the High Bridge who conveyed the news to the Railway Station
from where a telephone message was immediately dispatched to the Police Station and
the Fire Brigade quickly summoned. But the fire had got a firm hold and the six
stacks formed a great blaze that could be seen for miles around.

c.34.75

Wednesday 10th November

1979

Rolf Harris, the radio and television star, paid a visit to Little Downham to
record a radio programme; he wandered about with his tape recorder chatting to
people and getting material for ‘Rolf’s Walkabout’. In the evening the village hall
was pack for the recording. A number of local people took part and organisers
described is as “a great success with a tremendous community spirit about”

1954

Impington Village College has been open for 15 years; there are now 460 pupils with
new buildings including a fine new music room and engineering workshop. A new block
of classrooms was being added and there was to be a dining room and kitchen. Soon
it would possess the finest buildings of any school in the English countryside.
Beautiful buildings were a necessity Henry Morris, the Chief Education Officer,
told their Speech Day. Leisure had become one of the great problems of our lives.
Passive amusements such as television and football pools were not a good thing. He
hoped boys and girls would come back to the college in the evening and do things
with their own hands.

1929

The well-known cement works of Messrs R. Stephenson & Son between Burwell and
Fordham, now closed, have been purchased by the Associated Cement-makers Companies,
a powerful combine owning many cement factories. For a long time it has been felt
in Burwell that the only hope of carrying on the factory was to merge it in a
combine. During the war the factory did very well indeed because the Government
wanted so much cement that every factory was employed. Today orders are far from
plentiful. As one of a large combine the Burwell factory may get its share, and the
works may give considerable employment.

CEMENT

1904

The vicar of Deeping St Nicholas pleaded for the creation of new roads. He said
that poor people living in the neighbourhood of Tongue End were for months and
months shut out from civilisation, from schools, from churches and chapels, and
from any social entertainment. They could not leave their homes for six months in
the year, children going to schools had to wade almost knee-deep in mud for two
miles, and farmers complained of losses through inability to get their produce to
the railway.

Thursday 11th November

1979
The secluded village of Sewards End near Saffron Walden is home to two men,
Reginald Woolley and Don Gemmell who have led hectic lives in the theatre for the
past 40 years. Reg is still a director and designer at the Players’ Theatre
‘underneath the arches’ in London while Don looks back on a distinguished career in
stage, films and television. Since moving to the village they have shown a
particular interest in the Walden Music Hall society: “There’s so much talent, even
on the operatic side of it. So many people have good voices and great talent”, Reg
said.

1954

Sir – as one who wishes to guard the ‘Backs’ from the abuses of motorists may I
draw attention to that stretch of Queen’s Road from Burrell’s Walk to St John’s
Wilderness? On both sides of the road are grass margins which motorists use for
cheap parking. One individual has the cool cheek to park his car at the corner at 9
a.m. and it is still there four hours later. Recently a heavy lorry drove off the
road, crushing the verge flat, so that the driver and his mate could have their
midday meal and on several occasions I have seen this side full of cars. Wooden
rails have been erected on the other side of Burrell’s Walk and I hope these will
be continued along the stretch in question – ‘Non-collegiate’

BACKS

1929

Hunting cries and the sound of the huntsman’s horn accompanied a debate at the
Cambridge Union on the motion ‘That this House hopes that fox-hunting,
steeplechasing, deerstalking, shooting, fishing and all other sports of the field
will ever flourish in England’. A Prime Minister, apart from being a learned man
and capable of government, should be a racehorse owner. The pseudo-intellectualism
of the opponents was a form of abject snobbery, founded on fanaticism rather than
fact. Wild animals did not expect man to be friendly and foxes were not torn to
pieces by hounds while alive. Blood sports employed a great deal of labour and gave
colour to the lives of country folk. But the motion was defeated.

c.38 : hunting

1904

Some explanation is due to the people who surrounded our offices last night to
secure copies of our special edition which we promised for half-past-nine but was
not published until an hour later. We had ordered from the Press Association a
series of private wires to be dispatched as the Prime Minister’s speech was being
delivered. But such was the wretched state of the telegraphic arrangements that
hardly one of the messages reached Cambridge in under an hour. It is as well that
the Post Office is a Government department for any private trader who was so
lamentably incompetent would soon find himself in the Bankruptcy Court.

c.04 # c.27.7

Friday 12th November

1979

Cambridge city council’s main house waiting list is well on its way to doubling
within one year. It is not a crisis: anyone now on the list might still be rehoused
in 15 month’s time if they are prepared to live in any part of the city. There are
only two dozen council houses in the whole of Newnham and such is the pressure to
win a house in favoured developments like Lichfield Road off Cherryhinton Road,
that it might take an applicant five years to get there. Applicants must be married
or, if single, over 21, be living or working in the city (but students are not
eligible) and have a proven housing need. There is a special list for engaged
couples, parents can join children already living here and retired people who want
to come back to Cambridge can be catered for.

1954

Sir – there is no doubt that Cambridge is well-equipped with cinemas but why is it
that the two largest endeavour to attract more patrons by boasting a so-called
‘wide screen’. All this does is slice a strip off the top and bottom of the
picture. Surely the producer bases his composition on the dimensions of a normal
screen so why are we not allowed to see what he intended. It is considered that the
removing of hats, heads and feet from people are an advance in film presentation? –
W.R. Johnson, Magdalene College

c.76.9

1929

The Lord Chancellor has appointed a Government Committee to inquire into the whole
question of the power of the Church to have offences against ecclesiastical law
punished by imprisonment. At present the Consistory Court can only enforce its
orders by application to the High Court. This is a sequel to the remarkable case of
a Cambridge landowner who was sent to Bedford Prison for failing to pay for the
repair of the church roof at Hauxton. Now the Committee is to consider whether the
law should be altered.

c.80.01

1904

March Police Court was crowded when the man charged with attempted murder was
placed in the dock. As he walked from March Station to the ‘bus that was waiting to
convey him to the court he chatted and laughed with the constable who had charge of
him, and took no notice of the large number of the public who were curious to catch
a glimpse of him. Through the windows of the ‘bus pedestrians stopped to gaze at
him and though there were a few unpolite remarks passed, there was no scene. Two
miles out in the fen lies his victim, wife of a farmer in Coleseed Drove.

c.34.6

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 15th November

1979

The name of Pye has been around since 1896. To most people it conjures up a picture
of radios, televisions, record players and even records. But none of the UK
companies in the Pye of Cambridge group now makes any of these and since October
1st this year, legally speaking, Pye Holdings, the parent group, ceased to exist as
a public company. About 12 years ago Philips made a successful bid for the Pye
group and it has now become a fully-owned subsidiary. This will improve the future
prospects of the companies and the long-term opportunities for employment within
them, management claim.

c.27.1

1954

A television service for East Anglia and improvements in sound broadcasting by

means of Very High Frequency transmissions from a station to be built at
Tacolneston, Norfolk, have been announced by the B.B.C. Television services will
begin in February and will cover the greater part of Norfolk and Suffolk. The
V.H.F. service will be completed by 1956. The Midland Home Service which already
includes news, weather forecasts and other programmes reflecting the Norwich area
will extend its range to Cambridgeshire.

c.27.82

1929

The Government Office of Works have made arrangements for the records at present
stored in the old Prison on Castle Hill, to be removed from Cambridge to another
disused gaol. It is their policy to concentrate such records at Canterbury. The
Governor’s House at the old Prison will be adapted to provide temporary
accommodation for county council staff and rooms in the prison gatehouse used for
storage purposes. This has released accommodation at the County Hall for other
departments

c.43 # c.34.9

1904

The King’s birthday is one of those occasions upon which a certain section of the
‘Varsity and Town consider it necessary to turn themselves into public nuisances.
This year they avoided the Borough police by making a raid on Chesterton. The mob
made tracks for Midsummer Common with the object of having a bonfire. Several
hundred crossed Jesus Green bridge where a council of war was held. Carlyle Road
was mention as leading to fuel for the fire but a number of the belligerents made
an incursion down a private road. Several fences were broken down and flames shot
into the air as the surreptitiously-obtained timber was thrown on to the fire. No
police appeared on the scene, though a number of members of the Force were on duty
on the borough side of the river

c.02 # c.36.9

Tuesday 16th November

1979

A US Air Force F111 fighter-bomber crashed at Harlton. Nearby houses were rocked
and a great sheet of flame was sent up as the plane plummeted into a spinney. Trees
were pushed downwards and branches torn off and only the tail section was visible
embedded in the ground. First on-the-spot rescuers dashed around the meadows trying
to find the crew, but they had parachuted down several fields away. The crash came
after a series of low-level flying missions over the area. Only two weeks ago two
RAF Harrier jump jets crashed at Wisbech

c.26.1

1954
It is said that nude shows are killing the variety theatre. Well now the Cambridge
New Theatre gives you a chance to form your own opinion. The leading lady is none
other than ‘Jane’, the famous strip cartoon character; we catch glimpses of her
flitting behind illuminated screens or lying on discreetly lighted couches. There
are also a variety of young ladies performing weird and wonderful gyrations in
varying stages of dress and undress – all for the sake of art and culture no doubt.
In my opinion nude shows are becoming too frequent and the novelty is beginning to
wear off somewhat.

c.76 # WOMEN

1929

Sir – It is extraordinary that in an age when the importance of fresh air is being
recognised the open motor car body should be apparently on the verge of extinction.
Few saloon cars are adequately ventilated and on a long journey the choice is
between a draught and a headache caused by fumes from the engine percolating into
the body. To people advanced in years the closed car is probably wise but to young
people taking so freely to such an enervating mode of transport is pitiable. The
excuse is that our climate is so uncertain that a closed car is necessary but I
motor for hours every day of the year and rarely find it necessary to put the hood
up – ‘Saloonatic’

c.26.48

1904

The court heard how, 30 years ago, a young man had been sent to Cambridge
University, his father allowing him £250 a year, which was intended to cover all
his college bills. Like a good many other young men he became seriously involved
with the worst class of moneylenders. His father was extremely angry but arranged
the payment of £6,000 to his creditors. He lad was taken away from Cambridge and
sent first to Boulogne and then Australia. Arrangements were made to tie up his
inheritance to prevent him from borrowing another shilling and to settle everything
upon his wife if ever he got married. He and his father never saw each other again.

c.36.9

Wednesday 17th November

1979

County council engineers have devised a new method to strengthen the 150-year-old
Magdalene Bridge in Cambridge without altering its appearance. If Government
finances permit work will start in July, more than 13 years after the bridge was
closed to buses and other heavy traffic because of its unsound condition. The
rebuilding has been surrounded by controversy since cracks were detected in the
under-structure. A public inquiry in 1971 agreed that the new bridge should
resemble the old one as far as possible but a long wrangle developed over the
appearance and complex legal issues were involved because it is an ancient
structure.

1954

The Automobile Association has put into service a new radio transmitting station
from their Cambridge headquarters in Hills Road which gives continuous
communication with ‘A.A.’ patrols with a radius of 40 miles. There are six radio-
controlled motor-cycle combinations together with a Land Rover to provide prompt
assistance for motorists whenever a breakdown occurs on the road.

1929

The R.A.C. has decided to extend the benefits of its ‘Get You Home’ service to
members of the Club whilst flying. It has hitherto provided a relief car free of
charge for their members who have broken down on the road but a considerable number
are now either owners of light aeroplanes or are members of flying clubs. Should
any of them whilst flying be compelled to make a forced landing they will be able
to send for an R.A.C. relief car and be conveyed to the nearest railway station. If
the plane is of the folding wing type that can be towed on a public road the R.A.C.
is prepared to pay for its conveyance to any town within the limits of the scheme.

c.26.1

1904
Sir – while Cambridge is hesitating in what course should be adopted with regard to
the tramway system two of the London bus companies have adopted motor traction. It
is strange that after all the progress made by the petrol engine that one has
adopted steam. The difficulties for a good petrol bus are many as frequent stopping
and starting is required with much changing of gear. The steam bus has many
advantages as any variation of speed is got by merely turning on more or less
steam. Electric buses are out of the question as the batteries are too heavy and
will only travel about 40 miles on one charge. The overhead electric trolley system
disfigures the street by the overhead wires but can be relied upon and with
ornamental trolley poles they do not look half as bad as it is made out – C. North,
Cambridge.

c.26.46

Thursday 18th November

1979

An American newspaper, the ‘Omaha World-Herald’ has reported that after a B-47
bomber crashed at Lakenheath RAF station in 1956 flaming fuel pouring from the
ruptured tanks engulfed a building containing three nuclear bombs. If they had
exploded radioactive material would have been showered over a large area. But a
major accident was averted when the base Fire Chief ignored the burning bomber and
its four-man crew and concentrated on dousing the flames surrounding the nuclear
storage building. The incident was kept secret, as the British people had not been
told that nuclear bombs were being kept in the U.K.

c.45.8 # c.26.1

1954

British military officers and civilian personnel from the Lakenheath air base
witnessed a ‘Skysweeper’ firing demonstration at Weybourne range, Norfolk. This is
the U.S. army’s largest calibre automatic anti-aircraft artillery weapon – an
artillery machine gun. It is the first weapon with radar, computer and gun on one
carriage with fully integrated gun and fire control. The units are designed to spot
and track with radar and aim and fire the gun semi-automatically at enemy aircraft
flying near-sonic speeds at low and medium altitudes.

c.45.8

1929
The giant airship R101 passed over Cambridge after a visit to Sandringham. It
appeared shortly before three on its way towards Cardington. The great ship
glittered in the low November sun as though made of silver and hundreds of people
came running into the streets as they heard the noise of the engines. As it receded
into the distance it appeared like some strange monster floating on the misty
horizon. At Newmarket races there was a cessation in the betting and all race
glasses were trained towards the sky.

c.26.1

1904

Mr F.G. Postans retired after occupying the position of postmaster at Newmarket

since 1866. At that time all postal work was carried on in the boot shop now
occupied by Mr Quant in the High Street. There were five staff for postal work.
Gambling was allowed anywhere and everywhere and registered money was sent through
the post in large quantities. At that time there were deliveries two or three times
a day but now they have increased to five. There was no telegraph work in the shop
but there was a telegraph office adjoining the Subscription Club Rooms and another
in the White Hart yard. A number of operators used to come down for the race weeks.

Friday 19th November

1979

The temperature in some classrooms at the John Falkner primary school Sawston
reaches the mid-70s at times. This is one of the reasons why the headmistress
refuses to allow children to wear long trousers in the classroom. A dispute has
flared up after one four-year-old boy was told to wear short trousers or go home;
his mother is refusing to send him back unless he can wear long trousers. But the
school says it is easier for small boys with short trousers to cope with the
urinals. There is always bound to be some dampness on the floor and trouser legs
may get wet and smelly.

1954

A police officer began an inquiry after his curiosity aroused by seeing two boys’
bicycles lying on the grass verge beside a fenland road near Soham. As a result 14
children, six girls, appeared in court. A thirteen-year-old girl was charged with
having had relations with at least eight boys since 1951, mostly on the way home
from school. “This sort of thing seems to be so rife in this district as to show a
deplorable state of affairs”, the magistrate said.

WOMEN

1929

The Central Cinema held its first pictorial service, intended to attract the crowds
of young people wandering through Cambridge on Sunday evenings. There was a very
good attendance but the conduct of some of the young men left much to be desired.
Some had evidently come in the belief they were going to see a cinema show and it
needed a sharp appeal before cigarettes were put out and a semblance of order
obtained. Though the singing was hearty the thing that impressed most was the
beautiful rendering of Gounod’s ‘There is a Green Hill’ on the panatrope.

c.76.9

1904
Chesterton Council has purchased land in Carlyle Road, Cambridge, for a recreation
ground. They bought rights in the Brickfield Estate from Mrs Wragg-Gurnie and
frontages to Alpha Road from Mr Thoday for £1,350. They then sold off the frontages
and after paying for the land were left with a bill for £425 together with a
further amount for fencing, laying out and planting the ground. This was a very
small sum for so large a piece of land and they had carried out a great improvement
in Carlyle Road by widening it from Dalrymple Terrace to the end of the road.

c.32.3 # c.38

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 22nd November

1979

Anthony Blunt, the former don now exposed as the fourth man in the Cambridge-based
Burgess-Philby-Maclean spy scandal, is unlikely to lose his place of honour at
Trinity College. He has been an Honorary Fellow since 1947 but the Master said this
was a reflection of his scholarship and it is most unlikely that the college would
take any action. After Mrs Thatcher made her statement in the Commons a Labour M P
says there are a mass of unanswered questions

1954

Councillors discussed the problems of building a new school on Cherry Hinton Road,
Cambridge. It was known that the site was water-logged and deep piles would have to
be provided for the foundations. Chesterton Library which had been built on deep
piles was already cracking up and for the same thing to happen to this expensive
school would be disastrous. These difficulties had been pointed out to the Planning
Officer but they supported the ‘green field’ site that was now developing into a
‘green G-string’

1929

Barrington Light Railway Company was an independent company entirely disassociated

from the cement works except in business transactions. The railway originally
belonged to the Dreadnought Cement Works Company which went into liquidation. They
bought the railway but the works were sold separately. It owned engines and trucks
and worked in co-operation with the L. & N.E.R. The line was a mile and a quarter
long with a full gauge track. Their terminus was the entrance to the works; the
line continued into sidings, but was maintained by the Cement Company, a Rating
appeal was told.

CEMENT

1904

Cement making has already become a very important Cambridge industry. Extensive new
works are rapidly approaching completion and have made a great change in the
landscape of Cherry Hinton. The pleasant path through the fields from the end of
Mill Road is hardly recognisable now. It has been diverted to make room for a huge
collection of buildings from which a new siding leads to the railway line close at
hand. These are the Norman Cement Company’s works.

c.27 # CEMENT
Tuesday 23rd November

1979

In almost every celebrated spy scandal since the 1950s there has been a thread
leading back to 1930’s Cambridge. Then, gripped in the gloom of economic depression
as the clouds gathered for another war, many thinking people were in ripe mood for
questioning the values of capitalism. Fascism was gathering ground under the
leadership of Oswald Moseley (who spoke in Cambridge), there were hunger marches
and many young men took part in the Spanish Civil War. In such a climate the KGB
homed in on Cambridge as a breeding ground for espionage.

c.45.8

1954

Cambridge Marriage Guidance Council last year saw 145 new cases. 66 of them were of
marital disharmony, the rest being preparation of young people for marriage and
help in marriages already happy but needing guidance. Since its formation in 1946
1,029 people have been seen and helped. Now they are seeking offices and consulting
rooms rather than working in private houses.

WOMEN

1929

The inhabitants of Houghton are up in arms because the postal authorities have
removed their sub-post office, which has been there for more than a century, to the
neighbouring village of Wyton. It is Post Office practice to give preference to ex-
servicemen, but the Houghton office was run by the widow of an ex-servicemen who
had lost her breadwinner in the service of his country. It should be returned and
telephone facilities installed.

1904

Last week some Frenchmen visited Cambridge. There was no doubt about their being
Frenchmen. They displayed many of the features of their race, but they were also
possessed of phenomenal dash and staying-power. They came to play Rugby football
against a team which nominally represented Trinity College but which was far
stronger than any single college could put in the field. And they beat this team
completely. Many seemed surprised: “I wouldn’t have thought a Frenchman could last
out a game of ‘Rugger’” one said. The shoulder-shrugging, frog-eating Frenchman of
the story-books is a rare creature. So let’s banish this nursery-bred illusion and
hope one day for the friendship of this great people.

c.38 : rugby

Wednesday 24th November

1979

Anthony Blunt, Britain’s latest self-confessed spy has sprung a surprise and saved
his old Cambridge college from embarrassment. For while he publicly declared that
deprivation of his Honorary Fellowship at Trinity College would upset him much, he
privately offered his resignation to the college Master. Very few dons were privy
to his offer to resign and had gone in to the meeting all set for a long
discussion. And so without any acrimony and after only a short discussion the 15-
man college council closed the book on one of their most eminent – now infamous –
members. Without any need to research their records for ancient precedent they
erased his name as from the time of the meeting.

1954

Thirty-seven gold coins – a sovereign and 36 half-sovereigns – were discovered by

Cambridge corporation workmen, 23 of them in the sludge taken from the emptier at
Swann’s tip, Newmarket Road. This had come from the Birdwood Road and Norfolk
Street area and when they investigated the gullies in the area thirteen further
coins were found, two in a drain in Burleigh Street. These were heavy coins; they
were unlikely to have been lost through a hole in a pocket; more likely they had
been wrapped in something and disposed of by somebody who did not want to be found
with them in his possession. Eight years ago a man in Long Road had been robbed of
100 sovereigns and 30 half-sovereigns – but there were more than this found.

c.34.6 # c.29.8

1929

Every Christmas brings its novelties and now comes the ‘Talkie’ Christmas cards
which Messrs Raphael Tuck have issued. Each card contains a small gramophone record
which will convey to the recipient a suitable greeting. There are a variety of
records, some with bells, others with carols but all with a spoken message. There
is only one further development needed to make them absolutely perfect: an
arrangement that will enable anyone to make and send a record of his own voice.

POSTCARD

1904

At Divorce proceeding a Cambridge medical practitioner alleged his wife had been
guilty of misconduct with a Worcestershire man. She counter-claimed on charges of
cruelty and adultery, alleging that while practising he had been guilty of
impropriety with lady patients. In the evidence will be strange stories of violent
scenes at their residence, of the wife taking poison and so forth.

WOMEN
Thursday 25th November

1979

Pop star Elkie Brooks paid a surprise visit to workers at Neve Electronic’s
Melbourn factory where she toured the assembly plant to view the firm’s new sound
control system. The star of the show was a 54-channel console built using micro-
processor technology which is used to record and re-mix sound into a ‘commercially-
presentable’ commodity with less inconvenience to the artist. Elkie has already
bought a different Neve model for use in her own private studio in the basement of
her home. She said: “It has been a life-long ambition to have my own studio. It
will make things a lot easier especially when I have my baby”.

1954

“The introduction of electronic accounting machines into the office will

revolutionise accounting procedures and within a decade a managing director will be
able to press a button and receive an up-to-the-minute balance sheet”. This is the
logical development of the punched-card system, a representative of Powers-Samas
Accounting Machines told Cambridge accountants.

COMPUTER

1929

Foxton’s new village hall, a substantially-built structure in the centre of the

village, was opened by the chairman of the University Tutorial Press. It seemed
only a short time since the formation of the committee. They were not a rich
village, but they were rich in men and women ready to work for the village in which
they lived. The hall would give them the opportunity of meeting together. A
pleasure fair was held during the afternoon with ‘pull the knob’, ‘hoop-la,
bagatelle, tennis-ball throwing and hidden treasure. An evening variety concert was
followed by a fancy dress and carnival dance to the music of January’s band.

1904

A gruesome accident occurred at the railway crossing at Little Thetford. Two men
were returning from Fulbourn with the corpse of an Ely native who was by trade a
basket maker and had been detained in the asylum. A four-wheel cart, with no
lights, collided with their trap which was turned over on to its side. The horse
was dragged down with it and the two men hurt. The coffin containing the corpse was
left on the road and the trap had to make a second journey to convey the remains to
Ely

c.21.2
Friday 26th November

1979

Swynford Paddocks country-house hotel at Six Mile Bottom remains the best in
Cambridgeshire according to a new Egon Ronay guide. The inspectors praised their
‘huge baths, bubble bath and gigantic bath towels’ as well as their ‘international
food with a homely touch’. The Old Bridge at Huntingdon, Bedford Lodge at Newmarket
and Slepe Hall Hotel at St Ives also come in for praise. But restaurants fare
worse, this year even the Hotel de la Poste at Swavesey has lost its single star
and three have disappeared altogether – the Don Pasquale in Cambridge, Hunters Fen
at Cottenham and The Chequers, Fowlmere

1954

Charles Woods of Cambridge has attended 500 performances at the Arts Theatre since
it opened in 1936; he has also patronised the New Theatre for over 45 years and has
a collection of over 1,000 programmes. Many people were not aware that in 1910 it
was possible to listen-in to plays at London West-End theatres by telephone. The
system was known as the ‘Electrophone’. This had advantages over the present radio
as you could choose your theatre and listen to the whole evening without
interruption.

c.76

1929

Cheers greeted George Robey, the great comedian, on his initial entry at the
Cambridge New Theatre. This riotous reception came, of course, from a huge
contingent of youthful ‘Varsitymen’ but the theatre was packed in all departments.
The brilliant show was carried along by waves of cheering, culminating in a furore
at the end and a great roar for a speech to which Mr Robey responded in his own
inimitable style and the ‘house’ departed in good humour. He had never appeared at
the New Theatre before and so we had the unique spectacle of a famous father
following his son, for Mr Robey junior was up at Cambridge a few years ago and
appeared there in two of the Amateur Operatic Society’s productions.

c.76

1904

Up to last night there was a cluster of buildings, workshops, tool-sheds and fowl
houses at the apex of a triangle formed by property facing Mill Road, Hemingford
Road and Belgrave Road, Cambridge. Today nothing remains but a heap of charred
timber and twisted iron. Fire has made a clean sweep of the evidences of industry
of several inhabitants and caused damage of about £250. Mr G. Woolfenden, an
electrician, has lost a workshop. Most people living in the three roads have a
wooden erection of some kind at the end of their gardens and those burnt down stood
side by side or back to back in an area covered by 20 square yards.

c.44.6

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 29th November

1979

A further 15-mile stretch of the M11 between Bishop’s Stortford and Stump Cross was
opened yesterday. Saffron Walden’s Town Clerk, Mr Malcolm White, said it must be
good for the town and his only worry was that it could be used as an excuse to
develop Stansted as London’s third airport. He believed the new road, which in
places has only two lanes, could not cope with the amount of traffic such an
airport would bring. And police warned it could lead to more crime as robbers would
come down from London, though they might stay on the M11 and attack towns to the
north.

1954

Eastwood Cement’s development programme includes the construction of a new rotary

kiln at the Barrington Cement Works which is expected to be in production by next
summer. It will then have three rotary kilns and necessary ancillary plant, all in
first-class condition and having ample reserve of excellent raw materials for the
manufacture of the highest grade Portland cement.

1929

The Cambridge Daily News has entered its fifth decade. Times and newspapers have
changed since 1888 when the late William Farrow Taylor undismayed by the shoal of
gloomy predictions, ventured the first local evening news sheet on the streets of
Cambridge. Like every successful paper it has changed with the times. But changes
in make-up have not been more radical than those in the personnel of the staff. We
have two representatives of the commercial department who have been with us from
the beginning year and several on the mechanical side. But there are none in the
editorial department who can go back to the time of Mr G. W. Townsend; he treasures
a clock with an inscription recording eight years on the C.D.N. terminating in 1897
when he moved to the East Anglian Daily Times.
c.04

1904

Frederick Silk told the court that he was driving the prison van along St Andrew’s
Street in Cambridge when he ran into a handcart & knocked its 63-year old driver
down, cutting his hands and face. The man had been drunk and pushed the cart into
his wheel; there was no other traffic on the road at the time. Silk could not stop
because he was going to the station with the ‘Black Maria’ to fetch some prisoners
from the 4.30 train. He was fined £1.

c.34.6

Tuesday 30th November

1979

Why have The Damned reformed and brought out a new album? The poor relations of the
punk explosion were always written off as the archetypal sick-joke of the movement,
lacking either the sustained power of The Clash or the sheer nihilistic obscenity
of the Pistols. The first punk band out of the starting blocks and into the
recording studio, they became the first to split up in a welter of accusations over
the alleged dominance of writer / guitarist Brian James. Three years and three
albums later, the left-overs are making a comeback. ‘Machine Gun Etiquette’ has all
the sophistication and subtlety of a battery of heavy artillery and as the band’s
gig in Cambridge will no doubt show, still has a willing audience.

c.69

1954

The Cambridgeshire Regiment is very much ‘a family affair’. Three families were
represented at the Sergeants’ annual dinner. There were the Stubbings – Major
Walter, his brother P.J. Stubbings and son ‘Freddy’, Mr William Whitby and his son
Michael and Mr J.H. Kitson and his son Ron. Some say the Regiment has changed
because it has become Ack-Ack, said Major Few. “But if you look at the list of
Regiments which have been converted from Infantry to Ack-Ack you will find some of
the pick of the London Territorial units. The units who were bound a make a good
job of it were called in. That is why the Cambridgeshires are no longer infantry”

c.45.8

1929

The Cambridge Rifle Club’s new range at Chapel Street, Old Chesterton was opened
and Mr H. Ward Trinder, the originator of the club, fired the first shot. It is an
indoor range of 25 yards and there is room for six people to shoot at once. It will
be open from 2pm to 4.30 and 6 pm to 10 on weekdays. In the past there had been
some very good clubs but owing to the war all except for one or two in the county
and the Gas Company had fallen out. It was owing to Mr Trinder’s efforts that this
club was started and it would soon be out of debt.

c.38 : shooting

1904

The Cambridge Female Refuse is sorely in need of increased support for their
accounts show a deficit of over £250. The amount realised by laundry work during
the last six weeks was very much higher that for a considerable time past but they
could not rely on a continuance of a large amount of washing and must get more
subscribers. During the year nine girls had been admitted to the Home and eight
sent out to service after the completion of their training. But for the first time
in many years there were four cases to record of probable failure.

WOMEN # c.37.3
Wednesday 1st December

1979

The Ely beet sugar factory might be closed if there is a big cut in the British
sugar acreage. The British Sugar Corporation has always denied rumours that it may
be axed but now the whole future of the beet industry is in doubt because of Common
Market proposals. Eight of the smaller factories might have to be closed with
redundancies amounting to 2,500 people (about 300 work at Ely). There had been no
really good crop since Britain joined the community and problems of sugar supplies
from the Commonwealth

1954

A startling saga of the mysterious vehicle which will be used for the conveyance of
nurses and laundry around Peterborough district was related at a meeting of the
Hospital Board at Papworth Hall. The old vehicle had been involved in an accident
and was so damaged that the cost of repairing it was too high - its scrap value was
only £10. A new one was needed and it was proposed to buy a new Bedford Utilecon
‘All Purpose Ambulance’. But it was not clear whether they wanted an ambulance or a
vehicle of another sort; members tried to explain the difference but no one seemed
really clear as to the definition of ‘ambulance’

1929

A meeting of the creditors of Messrs Headley and Edwards of Corn Exchange Street,
Cambridge, in voluntary liquidation, was told they had been trading under
difficulties for some time. They experienced a period of prosperity just after the
war but the last account to show a profit was 1923 and they had got into financial
difficulty. A buyer had been found to take over the assets as a going concern and a
new Company would be formed to carry on the business.

c.27

1904

Distress is likely to be more acute in Cambridge this winter than for many years
past owing principally to the slump in the building boom locally and the depression
in trade generally. The Church Army has evolved a scheme through which married men
may obtain work. A number of tickets are issued to philanthropists who fill in the
name of a married man in need of employment and offers to repay the Army one
shilling towards the cost of employment. The man is found work wood chopping or log
sawing and is paid about 2s.6d. a day. But the Home is now overloaded with the
produce of its labour and there are 25,000 bundles of wood which must be sold to
the public before it can continue.

c.32.9

Thursday 2nd December

1979
Madingley residents have protested against a plan to store ex-German military
vehicles in a field next to the American Cemetery. It is already being used for
storing about 150 former NATO vehicles and now the owners have applied for planning
permission to store the German vehicles temporarily for a friend. They are part of
a consignment of 800 being sent out to Saudi Arabia but there is a hold-up at the
docks.

1954

The women of Cambridge on the whole seem to prefer casual clothes although these
can look smart, said the Vogue Pattern Stylist who is at Eaden Lilley’s all this
week helping people with their fashion problems. This is beneficial to the home
dress-maker who saves a lot of expense by making her own clothes. If she is in need
of any help or wants to know some trade hints she cannot ask a professional dress-
maker but can ask her. Some cannot summon up enough courage but they need not be
timid. She advises women to buy patterns one size smaller because they allow two
inches on all their patterns. “It is not the amount of money you spend that makes
you well dressed, but good taste and knowing how to wear your clothes”, she said.

WOMEN

1929

The best-dressed sections of the University undergraduates are wearing more whole
suits – as compared with the single jacket and flannel trousers. The plus four
suits are made up in quiet materials and the knickerbockers are cut medium both in
width and length. A pinkish brown colour is likely to prove a fashionable sports
suiting. Restraint is the principle determining everything from lounge suits to
socks. All the best tailoring shops are making overcoats and golf jackets in camel
and llama pile and undergraduates are accepting the vogue with enthusiasm.
Cambridge is better dressed than ever. Gone is the sloppiness that at one time was
regarded as smart.

c.64 # c.36.9

1904

Cambridge Corporation has made arrangements to provide extra work at their stone-
breaking yard with the object of relieving distress. The granite used for the roads
is customarily brought here in its broken condition. Just now however much of it is
being reduced to the requisite size at the stone-yard where they are prepared to
employ any applicant who lives in Cambridge. The rate of payment is 3s.6d. for
every cubic yard of granite broken and it is possible to earn about 14s weekly,
enough to keep a man from actual starvation. But the pinch of want has not been
keenly felt by the lower class of labourer at present for only one application has
been received.

c.32.1

Friday 3rd December

1979

Ducks have returned to the village ponds at Over after an absence of several years,
thanks to the Parish Council. And despite an initial setback when two of the ducks
were killed by a prowling fox the council hope the remaining brown Muscovys on
Duce’s & Sandpit Ponds will take a liking to their new environment. The original
duck population was decimated as they were run over by cars while crossing the main
road to be fed by a resident on the other side. Often they would sit in the middle
of the road and not budge. But the problem of starving ducks may return, as they
will have to be fed, just like their predecessors.

1954

Haverhill National Farmers’ Union is tackling the problem of marketing pork, which
has been a worry to pig producers all over the country. There has been a glut of
pigs on the market and poor prices were paid to the farmer, yet the price was
correspondingly high. Their idea is to persuade local fish friers to start a new
line in ‘Fried pork and chips’. It will be a popular change for younger people
after the cinemas and make a nice addition to the tea table.

1929

The Royal Institute of British Architects has presented a bronze medal to be

awarded annually for a building of outstanding merit erected in Essex,
Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire. One of the conditions is that it must front to a
street, road, square or court to which the public has access. Its first award is
for the Rose and Crown public house on Newmarket Road, Cambridge designed by Basil
Oliver and built by W. Sindall for Greene, King & Sons. A suitable tablet will be
fixed to the building

c.27.4

1904

Since September 14 cases of diphtheria have been diagnosed among Cambridge school
children, 11 of whom have been removed to the Infectious Diseases Hospital. Swabs
have been taken from their classmates and any harbouring the diphtheria bacillus
are removed to the Isolation Home. Three cases have proved fatal. One was of a
child who died through medical advice not having been sought in time. It had been
ill for four days before a doctor was called in. Steps were taken to remove the
patient to the Hospital as quickly as possible but when the conveyance arrived at
the house death had taken place only a few minutes earlier.

c.21.1

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 6th December

1979

The Duke of Edinburgh was cheered by more than 1,000 pupils when visited Sawston
Village College to mark its 50th anniversary. But there to meet him were also some
of the very first pupils of Britain’s first village college which opened on 30th
October 1930. They were Ron Brown who was number three on the register and is now a
printing supervisor, Douglas Page now Marshall’s chief pilot and Mrs Josephine Ling
who has never really left and is now the school secretary. What started as a school
with just 200 pupils now has 1,300 and is also attended by around 2,000 adults a
week for evening classes, clubs and societies

1954
Police in the Haverhill area used loudspeaker cars on Saturday to warn the public
of the danger of lighting fires near the river. The danger of fire and explosion
arose when about 8,000 gallons of jet fuel got into a stream at Withersfield. As
this leads into the River Stour farmers were told not to allow cattle to drink from
it. On Sunday the danger of fire was much less but there was still a smell of
petrol and oil vapours. The alarm was raised after a lady noticed that her dog was
covered with oil.

1929

The benefices of Ickleton and Hinxton may be united because of a shortage of

clergy. There would be one minister and one parsonage house could be sold. But
Ickleton Church Council said they should be kept apart and that the vicar should
live there because it was double the size of Hinxton, the vicarage was the more
central and a better house. A lady asked whether the new arrangement would be for
all time to which the Chairman replied, “Supposing you discovered coal at Ickleton
and started a new town, we should have to consider the matter”

c.82.01

1904

No reasonable person expects to find a ferryman on duty after ten at night and is
reconciled to the necessity of grinding himself across the few yards of water.
About midnight a husband and his wife returning from Chesterton determined to make
a short cut across the river as rain was pouring down in pitiless fashion. The
husband seized the handle of the grind to get to the other side as quickly as
possible. But when they got to the middle the ferry stuck fast, nor would it go
back no matter how hard he strained and pushed. For ten minutes they wrestled with
that ferry in the pouring rain and were just about to shout for help when the
unwieldy affair began to work and they got back to the bank they had left. As they
walked around the road home they decided that ferries were contrivances of the Evil
One

c.44.7

Tuesday 7th December

1979

Fen Ditton residents are bringing pressure to close the Horningsea junction on the
Cambridge Northern By-pass, opened less than a year ago. They claim their village
is being destroyed by the great influx of traffic, much of it heavy lorries, using
the narrow winding road as a short-cut to the by-pass. Residents of the Dudley and
Howard Road areas also complained that vast numbers of cars flood through their
estates. But councillors say that the point of the junction is to allow traffic to
use the main road instead of going through the city streets.

1954

Cambridge assize courts should be moved to the City Library site at the Guildhall,
councillors suggested. There might be some overcrowding on the first day of the
Assize when all the prisoners, witnesses and jurymen in all cases had to be present
or if there was a case that attracted particular public interest. But there would
be a substantial saving in capital expenditure. For some time they had wished to
provide new premises for the library as the Central Lending Library and Reading
Rooms were no longer adequate; before the war there had been proposals to move it
to the old Post Office building in Petty Cury.

c.34.9

1929

A Cambridge Daily News van driver was travelling towards Huntingdon when he
attempted to pass a stationary Vauxhall drawn up at the side of the road. His
Singer van skidded on the greasy surface, zig-zagged over the road for a distance
and then ran on to the grass. It struck a telegraph pole and one side of the body
was torn completely off and the windscreen shattered. The van continued on its way
tearing through a hedge and over the surface of a stubble field. In all it skidded
for nearly 100 yards but did not turn over. The driver, apart from grazes, was
unhurt.

c.04

1904

The troubles between the parishioners of Hardwick and their Rector, which have made
the village notorious, culminated in a police case when the Rev John Lee summoned
John Hodson for assault. It was the climax of a series of annoyances that had dated
back to January. It had started when the Rector had vetoed Hodson as a school
manager claiming he was not a bona-fide member of the Church of England since he
had jeered the Bishop on his return from the re-opening of the church. Hodson said
the affair was an accident; he was swinging his stick as he was in the habit of
doing, and the Rector had put his hand underneath it. The case was dismissed.

c.82.01

Wednesday 8th December

1979

A group of Cambridge businessmen is prepared to pay the city council up to £1

million for the eight-acre cattle market site off Cherryhinton Road. They want to
turn it into a new industrial estate. The site forms part of a large area of
derelict land owned by the council and British Rail. Over the years the cattle
market has shrunk and now occupies a small area near the main road. The council
aims to provide accommodation for small industrial firms and keep close control
over development, but some think the businessmen could do a better job and that the
money would be ‘very useful’

1954

Jimmy Young, one of Britain’s most successful singing stars is certain to prove a
big attraction as ‘top of the bill’ at Cambridge’s New Theatre. His recording of
‘Too Young’ was launched in August 1951 and within a week reached unprecedented
sales figures. Since then he has made over 300 radio and tv appearances and toured
theatres in Britain and America. He has a legion of ardent followers, many of them
middle-aged, who knit him pullovers and socks. Some even bake him cakes.

c.69

1929

The parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Health visited Stapleford for the
stone-laying of the 500th council house erected by the Rural District Council. It
might be a good thing for Ministers of the Crown to come down to such places and
see the conditions under which they were working. The former Housing Officer, Mr
Bunnett, had been responsible for practically all the houses but the red brick
corners on the present scheme were added by his successor. If they adopted every
suggestion made there would be some very funny houses by the time they were
finished. The party then went on to Harston were they viewed a new type of cottages
built of concrete and timber with an old-world decoration made by pricking the
plaster when wet, giving them a distinctive appearance.

c.30

1904

The bedmaker is an institution. Without her the University would be sadly

disorganised. Now The Granta has been conducting a bedmakers competition which Mrs
Jacob of Magdalene has won. She was born in 1829 and has served the college for 62
years. Mrs Hills of St Johns has a record of continuous service since 1839 while
Mrs Nichols has served 28 years at Corpus with 11 at Peterhouse before that. But
several ladies entirely declined to take the contest seriously, one saying she had
read in The Granta ‘articles which no gentleman could possibly have written’

WOMEN # c.36.9

Thursday 9th December

1979

An expectant mother enters Cambridge’s Mill Road Maternity Hospital in one of two
ways: through an archway of plastic urine bottles or under a boiler-house chimney
stack. In the ante-natal clinic she will jostle for space with dozens of other
mothers and give her personal details within earshot of whoever happens to be next
to her. She may have to squeeze past other patients in the narrow corridor to take
her urine sample to the little window. The corridors are bad enough for people of
normal size to pass each other but pregnancy makes it nearly impossible. Should the
birth prove difficult she may have to go to the theatre – an ex-Army hut wooden hut
built for Dunkirk wounded during the war. The nurses find it a tough place to work,
but they’re proud of their record – they lose fewer babies than anywhere else in
the country.

c.21.4

1954

So many members of the public attended a meeting of the Newmarket Urban District
Council that additional chairs had to be brought into the council chamber. Even
then about 30 people were told they could not attend because standing orders laid
down that members of the public should be seated. Those who did get in heard a
lengthy debate on light industry and a proposal by Messrs Alperson’s, the local
caravan manufacturer, to take over Harraton House Exning for light industry.
Proposals to convert Harraton House stables and build 12 houses on an adjoining
paddock had previously been agreed.

1929

Complaints have been received of persons endeavouring to sell various household

accessories on the hire-purchase system under agreements which are very unfair to
the customer. These agents generally call when the male members of the family are
at work and the housewife is alone in the house. They are adept in the art of
‘blarney’ and take advantage of her lack of legal knowledge to beguile her into
pledging her husband’s credit. But he is only liable if the article is a necessity
and not a luxury. A machine costing £20 cannot be regarded as a necessity in an
ordinary working-class household.

c.32.8

1904

Lincolnshire has long been a county noted for drug-taking. A chemist said that he
had sold more opium and laudanum in four years at Spalding than during the previous
twenty in other parts of the country. The habit had been handed down amongst the
inhabitants for many generations. It was originally resorted to as a means of
allaying pains resulting from ague but the present generation are not such slaves
to the habit as their predecessors. More opium is sold at Peterborough than in any
other town in England but it is not one-tenth of what it was 30 years ago. The sale
is now mainly confined to villagers, especially women, and the evil appears to be
gradually dying out

DRUG # c.21.1
Friday 10th December

1979

A bullock went on the rampage in Cambridge for several hours, terrifying

pedestrians. The half-ton animal – destined for the slaughterhouse – nearly
brought rush-hour traffic to a grinding halt. Armed police were called in and
combed the city looking for it until a panda car driver spotted the animal running
along the road in front of him. It charged in and out of the Eastern Counties bus
station in Hills Road, knocked a pensioner off his bike and attacked two
pedestrians in Station Road. Then with three police cars on its tail it was
cornered in a garden at Highsett but escaped by leaping over a panda car and the
chase started again. A wall was partly-demolished and three police cars damaged
before it was finally herded into the cattle market pen.

1954

The Government is prepared to increase Cambridge’s allocation of houses from 200 to

250 in 1955. The Council has already agreed to the erection of 100 houses by the
Hundred Houses Society and a minimum of 100 houses a year should be provided for
rehousing families displaced as a result of slum clearance. The City Surveyor drew
attention to 12 houses in Victoria Road and 20 in Stanley Road which have no hot
water supply, no bath or lavatory basin, nor a deep sink with trapped water. Hot
water can only be obtained by means of solid fuel or gas copper.

c.23

1929

Sir – as a successful representative of the ‘Goblin’ vacuum cleaners in Cambridge I

wish to point out that I ensure that our terms of hire purchase are defined and
understood before an agreement is signed and it is always my expressed desire to
obtain an interview with the husband. This can be proved by people who have had
dealings with the British Vacuum Cleaner Company through me. Trusting this will
remove any doubts in the minds of past and prospective customers – J. B. Pearce,
Russell Street, Cambridge.

1904
News of a murderous attack on a 70-year-old man at Sutton had been kept well within
the village, where it caused quite a sensation, but now a smart-looking fellow
wearing the uniform of a private in the Suffolk Regiment has been brought before
Ely court. Police Sergeant Towns said he had gone to a house in Sutton Gault where
he found a farm labourer known under the respected nickname of ‘Uncle’ suffering
from a very bad fracture at the back of his head and other wounds on his face. The
victim made a statement after which he had arrested the soldier. The accused lived
on the opposite side of the road. He was remanded in custody.

c.34.6

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 13th December

1979

The Downham Market by-pass, an important section of the multi-million pound A10
improvement plan has now opened. Together with the Denver-Southery improvements a
full 10-miles of new road will be open by next spring, providing by-passes round
all the important villages. Plans for a major improvement of the road between
Brandon Creek and Littleport were however withdrawn in a review of roads policy
last year

1954

Cambridge councillors suggest that 20 cottages fronting to East Road, 18 of which

are empty, should be developed as soon as possible by the erection of flats. Under
the new Development Plan East Road would become a trunk road and with the
construction of the Chesterton Bridge the amount of traffic would greatly increase.
This would cause a considerable widening and the possible construction of dual
carriageways which would leave very little of the site of the cottages available
for development.

KITE

1929

Women students packed the gallery at the Cambridge Union Society when a motion
supporting full University rights for women was carried. A sensation was caused
before the debate when it was proposed that in view of the importance of the issue
involved the gallery should be cleared but the President ruled that this would
cause too much disturbance. Women students lived under a code of rules that could
only be described as fatuous; one of the women’s colleges allowed its students to
go unchaperoned to King’s Chapel, but to no other. Girton allowed them to go to the
theatre ‘provided the party was of reasonable size’, whilst Newnham were permitted
provided the party ‘was not of unreasonable size’ (laughter)

WOMEN # c.36.9

1904

The anticipation of the probability of distress in Cambridge some weeks ago, before
the wintry weather came to give a keener edge to hunger and a more painful and
sharp reminder to the poor of their inadequate resources in food and clothing, was
widely discussed but was felt to be unduly magnified. The Town Council vetoed a
proposal to supply aid to the unemployed. But Miss Wilson of the Nursing
Institution on Newmarket Road began to undertake the provision of free dinners to
which the children of poor parents resort for their midday meal of soup and bread.
“We give the children as much as ever they can hold”, she said. Boys in pitiably
ragged garments and decrepit old women and little girls with starvation all too
plainly written on their features come with jugs to take soup home to those unable
through illness or lack of clothing to come themselves.

c.32.9
Tuesday 14th December

1979

Sawston council tenants are living in rusty steel houses – the result of a bulk buy
10 years ago by South Cambridgeshire District Council. The houses were built by
Spicer’s in the 1930s and bought by the council in the 1960s as a temporary
accommodation. They are made of steel frames with steel plate infill panels riveted
on but now many of the rivets have dropped out. In some places the steel plate has
rusted so much that a fist can be put right through and tenants complain that they
can hear everything going on the neighbouring houses. The only solution is to
remove the houses completely or use them as ‘sin bins’ – interior homes for bad
tenants

1954

The Ministry of Housing is prepared to hand over the emergency housing units on
Donkey common to Cambridge city council. Planning permission for the continued use
of the huts as living accommodation has been given until 30th September 1957 or
until such time as major repairs are required. The huts can then be removed and the
land reinstated as a public open space.

c.32.3

1929

An amazing story was told at Huntingdon police court when a woman was charged with
obtaining goods and money by false pretences. Edward Elphick, house furnisher of
Huntingdon, said she had paid with a cheque that was returned marked ‘No account’.
Albert Bigmore, jeweller of Ramsey told a similar story. Police said she had made
many untruthful statements. She came here about a year ago from Essex where she
left her husband and four children and lived at Warboys with another man. She then
moved to Wistow, Woodhurst, St Ives and Houghton before taking a cottage at
Hartford. Wherever she lived she left behind debts and non-payment of rent. She
wrote many letters to herself which purported to be from her uncle promising large
sums of money and a motor car. She also claimed to be the widow of a naval officer.
None of these were true.

1904

There was good attendance at Rothsay House Sale Rooms, Newmarket when the late
Prince Soltykoff’s estate at Moulton was put up for sale. The sporting estate,
known as Landwade’s Stud Farm was offered in two lots. One included a residence,
flower and kitchen garden, stud buildings, groom’s cottage, farm buildings and 259
acres. It had been bought on the open market for about £21,500 and a considerable
sum spent upon it. But bidding only reached £9,500 and it was withdrawn. A second
lot including cottages and horse boxes attracted no bids.

Wednesday 15th December

1979

Two moves to make the A45 Midlands-East Coast trunk road more attractive to lorry
drivers have failed to win Government action. Councillors had asked the Minister of
Transport to raise the lorry speed limit from the present 40 mph to 60 mph and
remedy the present lack of services – fuel, food and lavatories. Although the road
is dual carriageway from Cambridge to Ipswich the drivers find it unattractive and
continue to use overburdened local roads such as the A604

1954

A Vampire jet aircraft from RAF Oakington attempting to land on a disused runway at
Bourn aerodrome overshot and crashed across the main Cambridge to St Neots Road. It
landed in a field and burst into flames. The pilot managed to pull himself clear of
the wreckage suffering from severe burns and was given first aid by Sister Joan
Webb of the Medical Research Department of Bourn Pest Control. All that was
recognisable of the wreckage was the tail assembly and jet engine propulsion unit.
The pavement on the other side of the road was smashed and crumpled by the impact
when the plane crashed.

c.26.1

1929

An interesting improvement scheme will shortly be undertaken in Petty Cury and

Sidney Street. Messrs Boots the Chemist have acquired extensive property with a
view to re-housing their old establishment which has grown during some 30 years.
Now the time is ripe to erect an emporium to provide an attractive shopping centre
for patrons of all classes. The architect is Mr Percy J. Bartlett of Nottingham and
his primary consideration is an external appearance that will harmonise with
Cambridge’s noble architectural traditions and raise the standard of commercial
architecture. Building operations will commence early in the New Year

c.27.2 # c.44.6

1904

A serious accident occurred to men repairing a railway bridge between Mildenhall

and Isleham. At the time part of the arch of the bridge had been taken away and
girders substituted. While standing on the arch it gave way and precipitated three
men on to the railway which was blocked by the ruins of the bridge. By one o’clock
however the line had been cleared and the injured men taken to Cambridge, a train
having been stopped to convey them. Two others also fell with the bridge but
fortunately escaped injury.

Thursday 16th December

1979

Cambridge councillors and top officials entered the Mayor’s Guildhall office and
retrieved documents he had impounded after a furious showdown earlier in the day.
The documents relate to a bitter ten-year planning wrangle over plans for a house
in Orchard Street. The seizure of the papers was described as an unprecedented step
and now the Mayor has called for the Chief Executive and the City Secretary and
Solicitor to be relieved of their duties until a full inquiry is held.

c.35.7
1954

Cambridge Sanitary Inspectors applied for payment of overtime in respect of duties

carried out at slaughterhouses outside normal hours. As from next January officers
with a salary of less than £640 pa would be entitled to overtime but some payment
was needed in respect of work already done. Their work was different from others as
they were liable to be called out at six in the morning or on Sundays. Overtime
payments would be about £100, the alternative was to appoint an extra man knowing
he would not be fully employed, which was ridiculous.

1929

Sir – I was in the vicinity of Fitzroy Street early one morning and could see a
driver with a one-horse van coming from Burleigh Street. He turned right on the
corner round Eden Chapel on the wrong side and left down James Street, heedless of
any danger. On seeing a police constable I asked whether he had noticed the
careless driving around these blind corners. He replied: “This man, being alone
driving one horse and van is under no rules or regulations and if he wishes is at
liberty to wobble all over the road”. I suggest members of Eden Chapel should be
approached over this unsightly spot, with its projecting iron fence; it is a
serious block to public traffic. All such dangerous corners should be abolished –
E. Claydon, Parsonage Street, Cambridge.

c.26.4

1904

Chesterton council considered a petition for the construction of a footbridge

across the Cam between Victoria Bridge and Dant’s Ferry, subject to £200 being
raised by private subscription towards the cost. But by asking for a subscription
they would be setting a precedent and they would never be able to carry out public
improvements without asking local occupiers to put their hands in their pockets to
help them. It would be an advantage to those on the De Freville, but they all paid
rates. The bridge would be an advantage, but not a pecuniary one. If it was placed
at the Fort St George it would benefit a very large number of people and no
ratepayer would object to a farthing rate for the project

c.44.7

Friday 17th December

Crucial meetings are to be held over plans for saving the Cambridgeshire sugar beet
industry. Farmers are being asked to make ten percent cuts when they were already
producing less than the present quota. The county has 63,000 acres of beet which is
treated at factories like Ely before going on to processing outlets. It is a crop
which confronts farmers with many uncertainties over prices for a highly mechanised
crop which is expensive to harvest and vulnerable to weather and disease. But the
biggest headache is the political wrangle now the Eurocrats of Brussels are casting
their shadow over its future.

1954

It was a really grand and successful annual show and sale organised by the
Cambridge Fat Stock Show Society, but typically it had to rain. Nevertheless
farmers and visitors kept up a steady attendance. By far the most outstanding
entries were in the carcass competition – the first held outside Smithfield. The
champion prize was won by Stanley Hoy of Holland Hall, Melbourn, with an Aberdeen-
Angus polled steer while Messrs L. Shepperson of March won the class for the best
heifer, horned or de-horned with no more than two broad teeth.

1929

An explosion in St Andrew’s Street plunged a considerable part of Cambridge’s

shopping centre into darkness. The cover plate of a junction box of the Electric
Supply Company was blown off and several people had a narrow escape from injury.
Flames leapt up from the hole and blazed fiercely. For some minutes there was great
excitement, people rushing hither and thither. Police whistles were blown and the
Fire Brigade turned out but found that the fire had already been put out by a
motorist with a fire-extinguisher from his car. Shops and houses in a large area
were deprived of light and the printing of the 6.30 edition of the C.D.N. was held
up.

c.24.6

1904

Caxton Medical Officer reported that he had analysed the water in the reservoir at
Graveley which was highly contaminated and unfit for drinking purposes. It was the
only place from which to obtain water but was open to all pollution. He suggested
wells be sunk in different parts of the village, a course which had been adopted at
Yelling with success. Abundant water could be obtained at about a depth of eight
feet. One councillor said they should wait until the parish had a meeting to which
another replied: “I know if we have a public meeting we shan’t get the water. They
will go against it”. But even if the parish was not in favour the responsibility of
a good supply of water rested on the R.D.C

c.24.2.

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 20th December

1979

Anger has mounted following the Government’s announcement at Stansted Airport could
be expanded to 15 million passengers a year. The fury is mingled with frustration
because they intend to hold yet another public inquiry – despite two previous
hearings having rejected large-scale growth. Essex county council want to know the
precise limits, if any, the Government is proposing on eventual growth and the
detailed proposals of the British Airports Authority for further development.

1959

Trumpington industrial hostel is one of the few remaining hostels opened in 1947 to
accommodate Poles from the Polish Resettlement Corps on the transfer to civilian
status. It has continued as an industrial hostel with Polish residents numbering
more than half the total. The 130 residents are employed locally but it is a costly
business and it will shortly be closed. Many of those displaced will probably find
lodgings with other Polish workers who have homes in the neighbourhood.

POLISH # c.45.8

1929
Before the war the only real place of amusement in Cambridge was the New Theatre
and even that found it necessary to close down when the undergraduates were away.
Today we have two theatres, five picture places and frequent amateur productions.
Recently I decided to see a show but the Central Cinema had no seats under three
shillings unless I queued for two hours. I tried the Festival Theatre but they only
had a ‘standing seat’; people were fighting to get into the New Theatre and the
A.D.C. only had expensive seats left. As I trailed home I wondered where all the
people and the money came from

c.76

1904

A party of Macedonian gypsies, apparently coming under the designation of

‘undesirables’, are being chased from one county to another as vigorously as
civilised government will permit. No county wants them, no county will have them.
Hertfordshire police have pushed them on to the Essex police and today the
Cambridgeshire police are putting them over the boundary where the same process
will be repeated. At Stump Cross Linton police received charge of the forty-old
wanderers and obtained horses to drag the alien caravans to Balsham where other
police were waiting.

GYPSIES

Tuesday 21st December

1979

Current proposals for expanding Stansted Airport do not mean the creation of a new
town, planners say. It will require no more than 15,000 employees and these will be
recruited from the ranks of those commuting to London. But another report says
15,000 new homes will be required resulting in an increase of 45,000 people when
wives and children are taken into account. For the ultimate 50-million-passenger
airport 70,000 homes would be needed for a population of 210,000.

1959

One cold December night just before Christmas 1933 a dozen motor cycling
enthusiasts gathered in a room over a public house in Chesterton and decided to
form the Centaur Motor Cycle Club. Pre-war it was mainly a social club catering for
the weekend rider. With war came petrol rationing and shortage of oil but the club
somehow kept going. In 1945 it began to get back on its feet, organising the first
scramble at Caxton. They then pioneered events such as trials, grass track racing
and sidecar events. Now, 21 years later, over 160 members crowded into the Dorothy
Restaurant to celebrate the club’s coming-of-age

c.26.485

1929

F.A. Ridgeon, the Cambridge Town Football Club’s inside left, travelled by
aeroplane to Sussex for the F.A. Amateur Cup tie with Southwick. There was some
doubt whether he could make the match owning to duties in Stamford preventing him
from travelling by train. Hearing of his difficulty Mr D.G. Marshall of Aviation
Hall generously placed his Moth aeroplane at his disposal. His son, Arthur
Marshall, would have piloted the machine but he had gone on an air trip to Austria
so a de Haviland pilot was engaged for the journey. This is, we believe, the first
time an amateur footballer has travelled to a match by air. Cambridge won 2-0.

c.26.1 # c.38 : football

1904

At Balsham police searched in vain for horses to pull the Macedonian gypsies’
caravan and hit upon the expedient of pressing a traction engine into service. So
the motley crowd with their caravans and tiny ponies proceeded on their weary way.
The idea of being drawn along by a traction engine greatly delighted the wanderers
who crowded into their caravans and very contentedly made the journey into
Newmarket where they camped for the night on the Heath. The police accompanied the
party as far as the Red Lodge where the Suffolk authorities continued with the
procession, their intention being to dump the vans on land at Brandon in Norfolk.

GYPSIES

Wednesday 22nd December

1979

A new mini-roundabout and one-way system designed to reduce traffic jams near
Newmarket’s clock tower junction has opened for a six-month experimental period.
Traffic lights have been replaced and a new one-way system introduced in Exeter
Road. “In Cambridge mini-roundabouts have worked extremely well and we hope they
will work here” a council official said. At present a traffic warden or policeman
is on duty at the junction in the mornings to keep traffic moving. But motorists
must take care: there will be a lot of jockeying for positions and they must make
clear signals.

1959

Electricity supplies have been inadequate in the Newmarket area for some time but
now a large bulk supply point has been installed at Fulbourn Old Drift and fed from
the Barford Power Station. For months the huge overhead lines have been making
their way across country. Previously the initial 132,000 volts supply had to be
transferred down to 33,000 volts and carried overland but now with the new high
tension system it will reach Fulbourn at the maximum level. It will help areas that
have previously suffered from a serious drop in voltage during winter months.

c.24.6

1929

“How many in your family?” “Eleven”. With a happy swing of his spade a stalwart
policeman dug deeply into the mountain of potatoes before him and a couple of
shovelfuls went tumbling into a capacious sack. A wan-looking little woman smiled
gratefully, lifted the sack into a perambulator and passed on. She was one of the
200 who received Christmas cheer at the Cambridge Police Poor and Needy Fund
distribution. Each received a parcel containing a piece of English beef, flour,
raisins, tea, sugar, margarine, nuts, oranges and milk.

c.32.9

1904

Having been ‘dumped’ in Norfolk the Macedonian gypsies returned to Newmarket which
offered facilities they could not resist. They wanted horses and in that town there
were plenty with excellent spots where they could encamp. Attempts were made to get
the party to proceed in the opposite direction but without success. The travellers
were feeding nearly the whole of the way. They begged from house to house, some
people gave them a large quantity of clothing but when they made a charge of a coal
bunker had to be driven off with a hammer.

GYPSIES

Thursday 23rd December

1979

Still-born babies are being ferried by taxi from Cambridge’s maternity hospital to
the mortuary at Addenbrooke's Hospital because of inadequate facilities at Mill
Road. Twice a week a hospital porter makes the grisly two-mile journey carrying an
anonymous coffin – a small stone-coloured metal box. This morbid shuttle-service
accounts for just a few of the two dozen emergency runs made each week by S & H
Taxis, often with a police escort to beat the traffic jams.

c.21.5

1954

Saying farewell to Mr Henry Morris who is retiring from the post of Chief Education
Officer after 34 years the County Council presented him with a portable typewriter
and a filing cabinet. He had seen that modern transport which would otherwise
transform the countryside into a widespread suburb and the rural hinterland into a
cultural void, could be harnessed to create a rural region for the provision of
educational and social amenities. He created the Village College as a rural
community centre providing facilities for the countryman as good as those offered
in towns. He had reinvigorated the school curriculum, improved the quality of
teaching and established school gardens at Bottisham and Bassingbourn.

c.36.6

1929

Heffer’s wonderful new shop in Petty Cury, Cambridge, is a book lovers’ paradise.
In the basement are ‘remainders’ at reduced prices while the ground floor is
devoted to the latest publications and an extensive foreign literature section. A
wide range of second-hand volumes occupies most of the first floor where
connoisseurs of original editions will find much to interest them at prices from £5
to £250. On the second floor are oriental, foreign travel and fine art books while
higher still are Heffer’s own publications, many of local interest. There is a
special reference department and out-of-print books service. The front design
successfully combines and old-world impression with a modern style.

c.25 # c.44.6

1904

The Macedonian gypsies were moved from Newmarket to Six Mile Bottom, the number of
followers increasing as the journey continued; by the time they got to Pampisford
station they numbered at least 300. Essex police were waiting at Stump Cross but
Cambs police decided to take them further into that county. They camped at
Chesterford before passing on to Stansted where they were transferred to
Hertfordshire police who will take them on to London.

GYPSIES
Friday 24th December

1979

Villagers at Harston, Hauxton and Foxton were spellbound as they watched a swarm of
unidentified flying objects dodging around the sky but the entertainment turned to
fear when a massive UFO hovered low past the village pub where the regulars called
in the police. People hid away indoors rather than face the brilliant flashing
lights and others drove off the road to avoid being under the flight paths. Police
say there was no local flying and an astronomer said that there had recently been a
number of reports of unusual lights in the sky, though nothing like these

c.26.1

1954

About 400 youngsters crowed into the Rex Cinema, Cambridge, to enjoy a special
party for members of the Roy Rogers Club. After seeing a rip-roaring six-shooting
picture of cowboys and their hosses the delighted youngsters raced into the
Ballroom for the grand party. Everyone received a special Christmas letter from
their cowboy hero: ‘Howdy Boys and Girls. It sure is swell to send you personal
greetings from Dale, Trigger, Bullet and the whole gang. Wishing you wagon loads of
fun and a happy trails in the coming year’. The letter was signed by Roy and his
‘four-legged friend’, Trigger

c.75.9

1929

Fifteen cows, four horses and a number of fowls were destroyed in a disastrous
blaze at Russian Wells Farm, Barkway. The animals were in sheds which were burnt
out very quickly owing to the gale which was raging. The farm is occupied by Frank
Pigg and the owner is Mr D. Crossman. The fire was discovered by Charles Scripps
who immediately informed the horseman; together they tried to get the animals out,
but they were driven back by the flames. So he obtained a lift in a motor car to a
telephone where he summonsed the Royston Fire Brigade

1904

Newmarket councillors were all aware that a certain gang of gypsies had been in the
district and everyone saw what loathsome and dangerous people they were. The vice-
chairman had followed as the caravans containing these verminous beings had been
dragged to Brandon but they had then decided to come back. Essex, Herts and
Cambridgeshire had decided these people should be moved on and the only county
council that had failed to deal with the matter was West Suffolk. The police were
responsible for the removal of the gypsies but they said they could spend no money
to back up any actions.

GYPSIES

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 27th December

1979
Christmas punters on the Cam were astonished when confronted by a Royal Navy
submarine laying quietly at anchor near Queens’ College. HMS Zander, one of the new
shallow-draught killer submarines arrived under the cover of darkness ending an
incredible 10-hour voyage from the coast. The appearance of the sub, armed with the
latest American missiles, marked the successful conclusion of a naval exercise
designed to test its ability to navigate hostile waters undetected. [An article
from a ‘Spoof’ supplement to the News of 24th December 1979]

c.26.3

1954

For 240 patients at Addenbrooke's Hospital Christmas was anything but a

disappointment and one man said it was one of the best he had ever spent. All the
wards were decorated on different and original themes; Bowtell Ward had been
transformed into a zoo, an animal guarded each bed and there were pink elephants in
the corner. Griffiths Ward depicted almost every kind of winter sport, Albert was
a mass of inn signs with a stuffed fox suspended from the ceiling, and there were
gay coloured candles round a red brick fireplace in Tipperary, which was turned
into ‘Fallow Wick Inn’.

c.21.4 # CHRISTMAS

1929

Cambridgeshire probably produces more eggs that it eats, it is an exporting county

and in competition with the whole world; it is important that our poultry and eggs
should be known as some of the best produced, poultrymen were told at the
distribution of prizes won in the Egg-Laying Trials. There were 151,785 adult fowls
in the county and with an average yield of 100 eggs per bird at 1s. 9d. (16p) per
dozen this represented a value of £110,676. The Cambridge Poultry Research Station
was doing important work and the University Farm had decided to adopt a poultry
unit as part of its teaching equipment.

c.22.6

1904

An aged maiden lady was severely burned in a house in Abbey Road, Cambridge and
there are little hopes of her recovery. She had been left comfortably sitting near
the fire in the back sitting room but later found huddled on the floor in a corner
with practically all her clothes burned off. The stair carpet was smouldering and
the room filled with smoke. Neighbours extinguished the fire. It is thought the
fire originated in the bedroom while she was endeavouring to light the gas, she ran
downstairs and collapsed.

OLD

Tuesday 28th December

1979

The bright lights of London have moved a step nearer for motorists with the opening
of a new section of M11 motorway; around 10 miles of dual carriageway have also
been built on the A10 since 1977 and there has been an extension to the A1 between
Hatfield and Hendon. News reporters decided to put the alternative routes to the
test with a drive from Cambridge to Marble Arch. The A1 road proved quickest at
three hours six minutes, an average speed of 41 mph. The M11 took 43 minutes longer
and the A10 was the slowest at an average speed of 29.5 mph

1954

Although there were four babies born at the Cambridge Maternity Hospital on
Christmas day, not one was given a seasonable name. The first to arrive was Susan
Ellis of Beche Road, then Graham Child of Cherry Hinton followed by Peter Michael
Jones of Sawston and Jeremy David Pratt of Hills Road, Cambridge.

1929

England has lost its oldest Freemason and Saffron Walden its oldest inhabitant with
the death of George Moss Taylor. He was born in May 1833 and became a member of the
Walden Masonic lodge in 1876, acting as Tyler for more than 50 years. He saw the
first train run on the main London to Cambridge line from a hill at Littlebury 83
years ago. Cambridge has also lost a popular figure in Mr Frederick Dale, head of
the brewery that bears his name. He started it 25 years ago and it rapidly became
one of the largest in the district. He took a keen interest in the affairs of many
local clubs and many forms of sport enjoyed his patronage, but he shunned political
life. One of his chief hobbies was the collection of antiques and he had an
extraordinarily fine collection of old English silver

1904

Caxton Medical Officer said he had examined the water supply in the reservoir at
Graveley and found it was open to all pollution. It proved to be highly
contaminated and entirely unfit for drinking purposes. One or more wells should be
sunk in different parts of the village, a course which had been adopted at Yelling
with success. Water would be obtained at about a depth of eight feet and in
abundance at very little expense. The matter should be debated by the Parish
Council who would doubtless vote against it. The responsibility for a good supply
rested upon the RDC.

c.24.2
Wednesday 29th December

1979

The landlord of the Star in Station Road Waterbeach did not want to put ‘just
another beer garden’ behind his pub so he has installed a mini-menagerie. Already
there are a range of pheasants, a couple of guinea fowl, two goats with a taste for
beer, a dozen rabbits and a collection of fan-tail doves. Dave Halsey hopes to
install a duck pond and a stable for a 17-hand white percheron horse. He has also
become a hoarder of agricultural bygones and the pub is fitted out with various
tack. People are always bringing him extra things to display on his walls.

1954

The Mayor of Saffron Walden made a public ‘draw’ for tickets for the Wilfred
Pickles’ “Have a Go” radio show. Fifty people sat and shivered in the Corn
Exchange; the wind blew and frequent bursts of rain through the roof damped the
clothes if not the spirits of those who sat waiting expectantly. The BBC had issued
300 tickets for the Town Hall and 200 for the Corn Exchange and the best thing was
to draw for them. Lists of successful applicants will be displayed outside the Town
Hall and the town office of the CDN

1929

A Fowlmere baker, Frank Perry, had a narrow escape when his van overturned in a
collision at Harston. He was delivering bread and just turning into a driftway when
an Alvis touring car struck the front of the van which was twisted completely round
and landed on its side. Its front axle was torn completely off. Bread and pastries
were scattered all over the road as the doors burst and the driver was imprisoned
in his cab. Beyond a bruised knee and cut hand he was uninjured. Alderman Webber
who was motoring by, assisted by an A.A. Scout, directed traffic past the damaged
vehicle.

1904

The latest development in street traction comes from Perth where the council is to
experiment with a petrol motor tram car on the ordinary tram lines. This is the
first such vehicle to be built in this country and great things are anticipated
from it. It might be worth considering by the Cambridge Corporation along with
another invention: a motor fire engine with a high-pressure pump equal to an
ordinary London Brigade steamer that also carries a fire escape. Built by Messrs
Merryweather is it specially valuable for areas where horses are not always
immediately available for drawing a steam engine to a fire.

c.34.75

Thursday 30th December

1979

The Ely-Littleport by-pass could be lost if there was too big a fight for last-
minute changes, a councillor warned. The Ministry of Transport has omitted a link
road between the by-pass and the A10 at Chettisham and because of this traffic
bound for the north of Ely will have to enter along Downham Road and the narrow
Egremont Street to get to most of the factory areas. But while a link road is
desirable it is not essential and is economic. The council wants a lorry park at
Chettisham which could form part of any future link road.

1954

Cambridge M. P. Hamilton Kerr has received numerous letters from occupiers of shops
and offices anxious about the effects of re-valuation. These are going to be
assessed on present-day values whereas dwelling-houses will be based on 1939
values. This is because owing to the acute housing shortage since the war there has
been no normal market in houses to give a reliable indication of true values. In
some areas houses are deliberately undervalued and industrial premises assessed on
a favoured basis to attract industry. It is 20 years since the last valuation and
further delay will prolong countless anomalies and blatant injustices.

1929

Soham residents considered two schemes for the supply of light. One was from the
Soham Gas Company, the other from Beds., Cambs. & Hunts. Electricity Co. There was
little information on the Gas Company scheme; they didn’t know whether it would be
driven by oil, gas or steam or how long it would take. The Electricity Company
would supply current by overhead lines to a substation, it would be installed in a
few months and they have an alternative generating machine in the event of a
breakdown. This was the one agreed.

1904

A clay gas pipe has been dug up in Newmarket Road. It is probably one of those used
when coal gas was first introduced to Cambridge about 1836. Previous to this oil
gas was manufactured by John Grafton from works in Staffordshire Street and found
considerable favour with inhabitants until about 1830. Six years later he began to
manufacture coal gas; there were only two small gas holders and by 1848 only 400
street lamps. Now the Cambridge Gas Company supplies 1,160 public lamps in the town
alone.

c.24.4

Friday 31st December

1979

The old Doric Cinema at Newmarket has been transformed into a Variety Club. An
evening’s entertainment, including a four-course meal will cost about £10 per
person for a really complete and enjoyable night. On New Years Eve there is a
tribute to Elvis, featuring Claudette Newman and the New Jersey Express. Later
attractions will include The Searchers, the Rockin’ Berries and other bands that
have performed all over Europe. Sunday evenings will be a mixture of country and
western, jazz and rock and roll

1954

The Government has partially allowed an appeal by Moss (Cambridge) Ltd over two
advertising boards displayed at first floor level on a shop in Hills Road. It says
that one of them seriously detracts from the appearance of the building. The
premises are at a busy junction in a mixed locality. On the opposite side are two
large garages and a parade of shops. To the north the road crosses over the railway
and adjoining the bridge are the rail goods yards and the market. There are large
advertising hoardings on each side of the bridge and numerous other advertisements
on buildings in the vicinity

ADVERTISING

1929

Cambridge council agreed that the site of Grantchester Mill should be purchased by
the corporation, they will offer £1,000. The house was formerly tenanted by Mr
Nutter and carried with it the water rights and control of the river right through.
This was of extreme importance to the town but what would they do with the meadow
and the banks of the river? The bridge was built by Merton College for the use of
the mill and might be a liability as it had never been taken over by Chesterton RDC
or the County Council.

WATERMILL

1904

Whaddon rectory was completely destroyed by fire. Owing to the inflammable state of
the old woodwork and the old-fashioned internal arrangement of the building the
fire spread with great rapidity. Whaddon is a peculiarly isolated village and on
their arrival Melbourn Fire Brigade saw there was no hope of saving the rectory. It
was not sufficiently ancient to be of antiquarian interest nor sufficiently recent
to be of modern design. The Rector and his family have suffered considerable
inconvenience and much irreplaceable furniture is destroyed but they are none the
worse for their terrible experience.

c.34.6
2005 Looking Back stores note

Most of these were copied by the digital camera

They have a code – 800103 – 1980 Jan 03
I have subject indexed those from 29th January and will work back – so these can
now be subject indexed by using search facility
Copies before these dates lost, 29.1.05

050118
300115
550121
800122

Now copied into one chronological sequence – delete individual weeks from time to
time

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 3rd January

1980

While Trinity, St John’s and King’s decide how to invest their multi-million
incomes the all-women Lucy Cavendish College looks forward to the day when it can
pay its staff their worth. Everyone is part time except the college bursar and the
secretary. People are not paid anything like commercial rates and although
bankruptcy isn’t imminent they are not sure whether they will be a viable
proposition in 50 years time, says the new President, Lady Bowden.

1955

After the best-selling year for nylons there are even better prospects for 1955.
Sales for Christmas were colossal, as stockings were a favourite present from men
to women. By the spring one will be able to walk into a shop and ask for the brand
we like in the colour, dernier and leg length. The 12 dernier ‘invisible’ stockings
will be joined by a new luxury kind called ‘super-invisible. They are nine dernier
but don’t expect to see many because there are only a few machines in this country
on which they can be made

1930

The firing of the rockets on Parker’s Piece, which has been a New Year’s Eve custom
since 1815 is now a thing of the past. The increasing pull of counter-attractions
such as dances has seen dwindling attendance at the midnight ceremony and last year
Mr Deck came to the conclusion that no useful purpose would be served by carrying
on. So another old custom which served its day and generation well has passed away.
There has also been a falling off of the Watch Night services, which once drew
crowded congregations, but the Ortona Social Club function at the Masonic Hall was
a lively function.

c.39

1905
Dr Seaton’s Animated Photographs and Concert Company visited Cambridge Guildhall on
Boxing Day. The pictures include the latest Japanese and Russian war films, “Life
in Canada” a grand film of 1,200 feet long, “The Kingdom of the Fairies” and a
large variety of humorous subjects well worth witnessing. The performance included
a high-class variety entertainment including Professor Carson, ventriloquist and
mimic and Dr Seaton with his conjuring and plate-spinning.

c.76.9

Tuesday 4th January

1980

Weeks after the official opening of the latest section of the M11 motorway, traffic
noise has driven the people of Wenden’s Ambo to take action. Villagers noticed the
noise as soon as the motorway opened; “It was such a quiet village before: now you
cannot walk out of the door without hearing traffic roaring past, even at three in
the morning”, said Alan Lovett. They believe much of the noise comes from the
concrete finish and want a quieter surface to be laid together with anti-noise
fencing and double-glazing. Nor has it improved their connection with London: the
nearest interchange is five miles away in the wrong direction.

1955

An inquest was held on the body of a Sudanese student of St Catharine’s College who
was found on Christmas morning lying in front of a blazing gas fire in an
‘extremely hot room’ in Pembroke Street. Police evidence showed that a ventilation
canopy near the chimney had been closed. The student often felt the cold and sat
quite close to the fire. He had probably been overcome by the heat and died from
suffocation.

c.36.9

1930

Record crowds attended the New Year’s Eve dances at the Central and Masonic Halls
in Cambridge and many were unable to gain admittance. They will be wiser next time,
perhaps and book early. A large crowd gathered at the Rendezvous but so great was
the crush that serious dancing was impossible. A great many people stayed at home
in anticipation of hearing something extra special on the wireless. They did –
though it is doubtful whether some of it came up to expectations.

1905

Hamond Lodge Inebriates’ Home at Terrington St Clements was opened in 1905 for
inebriate women. It is a fine manor house surrounded by large gardens and the
change which has been wrought in many of the poor women who come there amply proves
that the venture was fully justified. There is a dark side too, for there are
failures and sad ones. But we have a great anxiety. A great many patients come
direct from the London police and their friends cannot guarantee the weekly charge.
The Home is costly, there is dry rot in the floors and gardener’s cottage,
defective drainage and insufficient water supply. The result is a deficit which
cannot be reduced without increased support.

c.27.4
Wednesday 5th January
1980

A new report on the expansion of Stansted Airport says it would ‘take in’ the
village of Molehill Green near Elsenham. 350 caravans would have to be removed and
170 houses destroyed. It also speaks of the ‘loss’ – whether through closure or
demolition is not made clear – of two churches and 14 listed buildings. In all
about 1,200 people might have to be displaced. The proposals do not involve re-
aligning the runway. Road access to the M11 would take the form of a junction south
of Bishop’s Stortford and the road between Harlow and London would need to be
widened to provide four lanes before the full 50 million passenger capacity was
reached.

1955

Henry Wilkin, chief clerk of Cambridgeshire County Council, has retired after 55
years’ service. At the age of 13 he had entered the office of a solicitor who in
1899 became Clerk to the Council, starting his career with local government and
receiving five shillings a week out of which he had to hire a barrow to take books
to the council office. He had served under three clerks, Samuel Ginn, Ashley Tabrum
and Charles Phythian. He was presented with a small walnut bureau and a Westminster
chiming grandmother clock.

c.35.1

1930

Magistrates discussed reducing the number of public houses. But in the past few
years almost all applications to close had been refused; closing public houses was
a form of prohibition and very few would want to shut. Problems were caused by
‘drinking all round’ – the worst side of the public house - but there was no such
thing as drunkenness in Cambridgeshire, and with the exception of a few days after
Christmas there had not been a single case in Cambridge. However drunkenness was
not the issue – it was a question of redundancy, the licensed houses closed
themselves and a nominal sum of £50 was paid in compensation.

c.27.4

1905

For the last three days the thermometer has been registering eleven degrees of
frost; should it hold the professional skating race open to all the world for the
Littleport Fifty Guineas Challenge Cup will take place. It is imperative that
skaters all over the country should receive due notice; once the amateur champion,
W. Housden of Wicken Fen, did not hear and was unable to defend his title. There
is already a fine sheet of ice on Lingay Fen but it is doubtful if the public will
be allowed on it for a few days. Sheets of ice promise to be ready for use at
Newnham shortly.

c.38 : skating

Thursday 6th January

1980

Every Sunday morning the rector of Bartlow expects to see no more than half-a-dozen
worshippers in the church. This does not bode well for the 14th-century church with
its Norman round tower. Heating, lighting and insurance costs £6 a week. If it were
made redundant a secular body would pour money into it but the closure would cause
great sadness to Bob Harvey who has been churchwarden for 22 years. He takes care
of the building despite crippling arthritis in his hands. Restoration work must be
carried out to the stonework and roof and this will cost about £3,000; half will
come from grants, but only if the village meets the rest.

1955

Wilfred Pickles’ “Have a Go” radio programme was broadcast from Papworth when he
probed into the private lives of six of the inhabitants of the Settlement. It was
the first time the programme had visited a tuberculosis centre and the most
memorable interview was with the Matron, Miss Robinson, who told of her work; her
great sincerity and understanding must have impressed many people. Also on the
programme were Jackie Hobbs, John Mead, Joseph French the transport manager, David
Wilkie and Charles Benstead who had been in the Settlement 26 years to the day. He
won the jackpot of £2 15s.5d. and a Papworth pullet.

c.27.81

1930

George Lister, a life-long resident of Cambridge and for many years one of its
best-loved employers has passed away. He set up the business of Lister and Sons,
motor and general engineers in Abbey Road. He was the type of man who created an
atmosphere of good fellowship; in dealing with the younger members of his staff he
would go out of his way to assist them to acquire the practical knowledge of an
engineer. The good feeling in the firm is illustrated in that several men have 30
to 40 years’ service to their credit.

c.27

1905

P.C. Winter told an inquest that he went to Dant’s Ferry and found a body in the
water fully dressed with the head towards Victoria Bridge and the feet under the
ferry boat. He raised the head out of the water but the body was caught in the
chains and he could not lift it. The Coroner said that a bridge instead of a ferry
would probably be better and the number of accidents would be less. The ferry boat
was a private concern, people paid tuppence a week and pulled themselves across
early in the morning or late at night. There was no blame, it was one of those
unfortunate circumstances which had happened at the same spot before.

c.44.7

Friday 7th January

1980

‘Red’ Rudi Dutschke, the German revolutionary who provided Cambridge undergraduates
with a cause celebre which rocked the university, has died. He slipped into Britain
in 1968 for medical treatment for a bullet wound received during a demonstration in
Berlin. He was offered a place at Clare Hall so that he could continue his studies
here and did not take part in active politics. But when Home Secretary Reginald
Maudling refused to allow him to stay dons protested and the Cambridge Students’
Union mounted its first-ever national march in London. It was to no avail and Rudi
left in 1971. But when Mr Maudling agreed to meet his critics it took the biggest
security operation ever in Cambridge to protect the meeting at The Leys school.
c.36.9

1955

Nearly 50 strangely-clad figures could be seen in gas masks and yellow capes at the
University Laboratories in Pembroke Street. All were highly qualified chemists and
scientists, members of the Civil Defence Corps receiving instruction in a mobile
gas chamber where paralysing nerve gas was sprayed on them and they made various
tests, fully protected by special protective clothing. Unprotected persons would be
sick and the gas would cause blindness. They also received instruction in atomic
warfare and chemistry.

c.45.8

1930

Israel Custerson, a farmer of Kingston, told the court that the defendant, a
caravan dweller, had said he was stuck up the road because he had no petrol and let
him have a can of petrol valued at six shillings. The man said he was going to
Bourn to fill up the lorry and would bring the can back. But he did not return.
Police Sergeant Smith said he saw the lorry at Barrington Green, noticed the petrol
can and cautioned him. Defendant said he was an iron and metal buyer, he had
returned to the farm but it was getting late and his lights failed. The next day
his engine went wrong and he had to do repairs. He was fined £2.

GYPSY

1905

Newmarket council considered the rights of the public to exercise horses on the
Severalls. A most respectable gentleman had been told to take his horse off and not
go again. From time immemorial it had been used for all kinds of purposes: fairs,
cricketing and even carpet-shaking; when the Americans were here they were allowed
to gallop their horses on it. The Jockey Club had hired the land but the public had
the right of exercising horses on it. If people were stopped they would go to
Royston to train their horses and trade would be driven from the town.

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 10th January

1980

Cambridge University is facing a bleak future. After the austerity and penny-
pinching of the 1970s the 1980s are heralded by contraction, cutbacks in finance
and a warning that they should prepare for a reduction in student intake. This is a
setback of immense proportions. In addition Government-imposed fee rises for
overseas students are certain to reduce their numbers. Dons point out that their
resources are not endless and cuts in teaching and research mean that present
levels of operation are guaranteed only for the present year. Even if fortunes
changed overnight the university would take some time to recover lost ground.

1955

Two social functions at Dale’s Brewery, Cambridge tempted hard-headed businessmen

to drive twenty miles through snow. They were beer-sampling evenings. Now that
draught been is no longer brewed there Whitbread made arrangements for members of
service messes, clubs and university bars to taste their best ale, bitter and
Burton draught beer. Other arrangements will be made for licensed houses. The
famous Gwydir Street premises with its landmark of a Gold Cup on the roof will now
only be used as a free trade bottling store.

1930

Cambridge bankruptcy court heard of a young man who began trading as a milk
retailer. He bought a motor-cycle truck sidecar for milk work then exchanged it for
a Ford touring car. But it was no good – he had engine trouble and practically
everything went wrong. It was broken up and he bought at Austin 20 for £17 and had
it converted into a lorry. He had about 90 customers in Mill Road but they dropped
to 20 when the Co-op started in the milk business; he then tried his luck as a
haulage contractor and finally tried to recoup his losses by racing greyhounds at
Cambridge.

1905

A few says ago I dropped across a couple of gentlemen of the religious persuasion
known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Elder S.S. Downes and
Elder H.B. Brown are their names and they are endeavouring in a quiet way to found
a church in Cambridge. For and against Mormonism is not my mission to preach but
they have as much right to extend their views as other folk on mission bent,
providing they do it in a decent way.

04 12 24

Tuesday 11th January

1980

Girton College has one of the country’s most unusual orchards. It boasts about 153
trees representing 83 varieties of rustic English apples. The oldest are some
Blenheim Orange apples which date back 90 years. They have been the pride and joy
of Bill Stringer who is retiring after 32 years on the college staff. But the
survival of the orchard could depend on the continuing interest of his successor.
Already picking has become a problem with the loss of casual labour and there is no
desire to use the apples for college meals as instant cooking phases out demand for
apple dumpling or charlottes. In addition the college has sold land for the
Cambridge Northern by-pass which will put pressure on the remainder as the student
intake grows.

1955

The old dramatic clubs are faced with serious competition with the formation of the
Magpie Players who presented their first play at the Queen Edith School. The play
was not a particularly good one and depends on swift production. That it was not
produced with the necessary speed was partly due to the direction and partly to one
player who was not quite at home with his words. But this was the only fault.

1930

A Soham grocer said he had started as manager of the Co-operative shop and then
gone into partnership with John Everitt. They had bought a horse and cart and did
delivery work, but found no cash. He had then started on his own and did well until
the war broke out. Since 1913 five new competitors had spring up, three in Soham,
one with motor vans from Newmarket and another from Ely. People also went shopping
by bus. He had used some of the money of the Soham Slate Club, of which he was
treasurer to pay his debts.

1905

A few nights ago a citizen was walking across Midsummer Common, Cambridge, when he
was accosted by a rough-looking individual who said he was out of work and
intimated in blunt terms that he wanted money and meant to have some. But his
intended victim was endowed with some courage, a good supply of muscle and a strong
leathern belt with a weighty buckle. He slipped off his belt and made for the
footpad, who seeing he had no chicken to deal with took to his heels and was soon
lost in the gloom.

Wednesday 12th January

1980

One of the strangest new shapes in the sky has lifted off the runway with its
Elsworth designer, John Edgley sitting next to a test pilot. His aircraft, the
Optica, has been nicknamed the Bug Eye because of its odd looks. The cabin is a
Perspex bubble and it is designed to have the low-speed capability of a helicopter
but be as cheap and easy to fly as a conventional light aircraft, making it an
economical observation plane. Its future roles could include powerline inspection,
fire-watching, traffic patrol and pleasure flying

1955

Mustard gas exploded at Lord’s Bridge RAF station after fire broke out in a hangar.
The gas, left over from the last war, was being used for experimental purposes. It
was being disposed of gradually with the last 125 tons stored in a sunken concrete
container. An area was cordoned off and fire tenders were quickly in attendance. It
is anticipated that the fire would have destroyed any effects of the gas but
medical authorities warned local civilians that if they suffered any reddening of
the skin they could obtain immediate medical attention from the RAF.

c.45.8

1930

The drove under the bank at Isleham which is the only means of access to the houses
alongside the river is in a terrible state, full of holes filled with mud and water
and well night impassable. Some of the children attending school have to wade
through mud and water over their boot tops for two miles and arrive so tired they
are not in a fit condition for their lessons. Some years ago the school had to be
closed owing to the impossibility of the mistress getting to there.

1905

For some time Miss Wilson and her hard-working band of ladies have been daily
allaying the pangs of hunger in hundreds of little children and their mothers in
the Newmarket Road area of Cambridge by giving them free dinners. Now their effort
is brought to an end. Not only are the financial resources exhausted but the staff
have physically worked themselves out. But on the very day that these free meals
cease the CDN Shilling Fund commences its distribution of tickets for food, fuel
and clothing, continuing the work they have been compelled to give up.
Subscriptions continue to come steadily in with cheques from Messrs Starr and
Rignall photographers, Moore and Company tobacconists and the Cambridge Waterworks
Company

c.32.9

Thursday 13th January

1980

Customers at Cherry’s Stores in Norwich Street, Cambridge, have said goodbye to the
couple who have run the shop for 34 years. Lionel Cherry and his wife Kathleen took
over in 1946 and built up a business which, in days when petrol was cheaper,
offered a free delivery service to Newnham and Arbury. The shop was the place where
Robert Sayle started as a draper and has been a grocers for more than 100 years,
owned in all that time by just three shopkeepers. It will be the end of a long
family connection with the trade. Mr Cherry’s uncle had a shop on the junction of
Arbury and Milton Roads which became known as Cherry’s Corner

c.27.2

1955

A builder appealed for permission to erect a house on land adjoining Willingham

Green, Weston Colville. There had been cottages on the site that were demolished
some time ago. He was willing to give a piece of land to construct a lay-by so that
vehicles could park off the road, which was not a busy one. But the planners said
that it was on a dangerous bend, if granted they could not refuse permission to
anyone else and houses would spring up on either side.

1930

A child living in Isleham fen who was suffering from diphtheria had to be taken to
the fever hospital in an open cart, there being no means of getting the ambulance
up to the house, and it died the Monday following. Another child, aged nine, had to
be carried on a stretcher for a long distance until the hard road was reached. The
Fen Bank Drove serves a number of dwelling houses and three public houses together
with the school which was built in 1879. Men have been employed filling up holes
and now that there is a great amount of unemployment this is a favourable time to
put the road into repair

1905

Has any reader had experience of the buxom old lady who with a clean basket on her
arm, knocks at your door with hard-boiled eggs at eight for a shilling. Very
carefully she sets down a basket lined with fresh straw containing a quantity of
eggs which she affirms were only laid that morning and are being sold at the same
price she obtains from shopkeepers who buy wholesale. The housewife congratulates
herself at the bargain, but imagine her disgust when it is discovered that the eggs
were laid months ago and when the shell is broken emit an effluvia which rises up
violently about the proboscis. Needless to say the old lady does not call again.

04 12 24

Friday 14th January

1980

Cambridge United has agreed to sell record goalkeeper, Alan Biley to First Division
Derby for £450,000. The 22-year-old striker was signed on a free transfer from
Luton five years ago. United manager John Docherty said “With our resources we
cannot afford to hang on to players like Alan. We do not have the money to sign
Jimmy Calderwood after spending £140,000 on George Riley. We have spent more than
£200,000 this year”..

1955

Complaints of hooliganism and late-night disturbances were aired at a stormy

meeting to discuss parking arrangements for Magrath Avenue, Cambridge. The longest
tirade came from one lady who said her husband was a working man and unable to get
a proper night’s sleep as the men outside were half drunk and the women a darned
sight worse. New proposals would create parking spaces in front of the Rex Cinema
and in Clare Street so as to avoid people blocking the back entrances to houses.

1930

Extensive netting was carried out in the ponds at Madingley Hall; over 8,000 fish,
mostly roach and rudd, were transferred in tanks to Newnham Mill Pool. The party,
which included Mr Ambrose Harding and Horace Coulson arrived equipped with nets and
tanks which strongly resembled dust-bins. The first haul was made across the bridge
end of the pond and resulted in the capture of about 400 small roach which were
taken to Cambridge by lorry. The next produced upwards of 2,000 fish, too many for
the lorry so Mr Coulson took some in pails in his car. The third pond yielded a
still finer catch

1905

Last term in the small hours of the morning an undergraduate in the old part of
Corpus Christi College saw something of a supernatural appearance. It so unnerved
him he became quite ill; he refused to continue to occupy the room and moved to
another staircase. Naturally the college authorities deemed it desirable to prevent
the story from gaining publicity and until now have succeeded in suppressing the
circumstances. But now the harrowing and gruesome facts have leaked out and the
recent visitation of ‘something’ to the undergraduate is beyond dispute.

04 12 24 # c.39 # GHOST

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 17th January

1980

Dr Russell Wortley, one of the country’s best-known folklorists, has died. He was
out with the Cambridge Morris Men for their Plough Monday celebrations when he
collapsed. He was behind the revival of the custom of Molly dancing on Plough
Monday; it had disappeared long ago but he revived it in its Jubilee year. On the
national scene he was bagman (secretary) of the Morris Ring for many years in the
1950s. A former editor of the English Folk Song and Dance Society Journal he was an
expert on folk music, seeking out and recording many local songs and dances. He
also played a variety of old instruments.

c.39

1955

Road conditions were so bad on Sunday night that all Cambridgeshire police cars
were called in and this morning the roads were still very dangerous. At Earith the
road is flooded to a depth of ten inches. There was one early-morning bather at
Jesus Green swimming bath, but he declined to give his name. He took his dip in
water which was just four degrees above freezing!

1930

Cambridge experienced the full force of the gales. Broken fragments of tiles and
chimney pots told their own tale including the house of Mr David Crown, the
builder, which had a large hole in the roof. Many trees were blown down along the
Backs of the Colleges; two on the corner of Queens’ Green were both snapped off by
the violence of the winds, another fell across the road opposite St John’s College
and several giant elms were snapped off like matchwood. A large tree fell across
the road at Trumpington and a motor cyclist collided with it, without injury. A
poplar on the edge of Snob’s Stream, Sheeps Green fell carrying with it a large
number of telegraph wires.

1905

The Master of Kedington Workhouse reported that nearly all the old men went one
evening over Christmas and the greater part of them came home the worse for drink.
One man was brought in a wheelbarrow, simply smothered with mud. Where the men got
their drink is a mystery, but apparently the inhabitants of Haverhill had been
exceedingly generous. Many of the paupers were not entirely without money: one firm
had sent a shilling to each of twenty men who used to be in their employment,
others had received letters from friends enclosing stamps. The result of the spree
was an attack of dysentery among the men who had participated.

Tuesday 18th January

1980

Clare Town Hall is in danger of collapsing over people’s heads. Around £4,5000 is
required immediately to fix the leaking tiled roof but this is just the tip of the
problem. The Edwardian-built hall is cold, bare and dank and needs money to be
spent on it to make it more attractive. It does not provide facilities for things
like snooker, badminton, plays and concerts. The only alternative is a purpose-
build centre which could cost £80,000 excluding the land.

1955

Mr Ernest Saville Peck, a former Mayor of Cambridge, has died. He had a long and
distinguished career in all those spheres in which he chose to work. He adorned all
offices he held and some of his activities reached the very top rung of the ladder.
Born in 1866 he entered the old-established pharmaceutical business owned by his
father. During the first War he inaugurated an anti-gas school and having studied
gas warfare in France was sent to America to assist in the training of gas
defensive measures there. He was the first President of the Cambridge Rotary Club
and founder member of the Air Training Corps

1930

A mysterious fire with some curious features occurred at the old Mill House,
Ickleton. The house adjoins the works of the Ickleton Electricity Supply Company
which were burnt down a few weeks ago. Inscribed on a battered tin tray, leaning
against the door of the blazing mill, which was completely gutted, firemen found
the words ‘Revenge is Sweet’. The police have taken possession of the tray and
inquiries are being pursued. Two brigades were unable to save the house. The
occupier of the house was in Cambridge at the time of the outbreak and his wife was
in London.

1905

Liquid air is no new thing in Cambridge for it was our own Professor Dewar who was
the first scientist to obtain liquid in hydrogen. Its application to everyday life
is new and emanates from the stage. The principal attractions at the Inventions and
Trades Exhibition in the Corn Exchange will be Dr Savant’s demonstrations of a
kettle boiled on ice, eggs poached in one second, grapes instantly turned into
hailstones and ice cream made over fire. It is one of the most marvellous and
astounding performances every placed before the public.

04 12 31

Wednesday 19th January

1980

Reports of a UFO which held Harston villagers spellbound have been received from
other parts of the world. A researcher who investigated the phenomenon says they
appear to be genuine descriptions of an unknown technology. Other reports have been
received locally. Desmond January, a Cambridge estate agent, said he watched a line
of three white lights which he thought at first were helicopters, but there was no
noise and one shot away at right angles up into the sky. Another resident of
Hauxton reported something similar that evening while on New Years Day a lady
described seeing a dark cylindrical object pass over her home in Hills Road,
Cambridge. The following day two teenagers at Girton told of a light ‘burning like
magnesium ribbon’

c.26.1

1955

A Cottenham man, H.A. Harvey, is planning to run a ‘Poor Man’s Tour’ to the
Continent by luxury coach. A Belgian tour will cost £22 and people could be picked
up at Histon. This will save having to make a horrifying journey across London to
reach the coach station. But Barton Transport, Eastern Counties and Mr H. Richmond
objected. One said that in spite of wide advertising last year they had only
received six firm bookings and there was not a great deal of Continental traffic
from Cambridge. British Railways say that they would not expect a great demand for
excursions in this area.

1930

The new night safe at Lloyds Bank in Sidney Street is not yet in working order but
I had a peep and was impressed by the ingenious working of the arrangement. The
safe is Lloyds’ own invention and the Cambridge branch is amongst the earliest to
have it installed. There was a time when people of small means did not trouble the
banks very much but now the humblest investor seems to be welcomed. There are
various kinds of home safe including a tasteful little book safe in four colours.

c.32.8

1905

Cambridge councillors discussed the reappointment of an Inspector of Nuisances. Mr

Wilson was a thoroughly effective officer; he was one of the few who can find their
drains, had been honest and would rectify any problems. He had found the previous
system slipshod and had the courage to say so. No complaints against him had been
substantiated. Some felt that it was perfectly ridiculous to reappoint a man who
came from London in the morning and went home at night but he was in Cambridge in
time to take up his duties and had to report to the Medical Officer every night.
When appointed he had been told it was a temporary position and could not
reasonably be expected to remove his house until it was put on a more permanent
basis.

05 01 02

Thursday 20th January

1980

It is quite possible that by 1990 the people of Cambridgeshire will review the
previous decade and say to themselves: “Weren’t we lucky”. By then the area’s
trunk-road system should be complete, the London-Cambridge main railway line
electrified and Stansted Airport established as a convenient centre for domestic
and international traffic. Of course the people of 1990 may say no such thing.
South Cambridgeshire may be complaining of too much noise, too much house-building
and rocketing house prices whereas areas of the fens may still lack the new jobs
they need

1955

Complaints of flooding in the Hauxton Mill to Shelford area have been investigated
and the River Cam will be dredged to eliminate the risk of summer flooding. No such
scheme for improvement has previously ever been undertaken by the Great Ouse
Catchment Board. The proposed by-pass at Barton Mills would involve a dual-
carriageway bridge directly over the lock gate and reduce the length of the lock by
25 feet. But there was no active navigation on this part of the River Lark and a
combined bridge and sluice structure could be built.

1930

Sir – at Wisbech the canal is being bridged over making it impassable to canal
barges and steps have been taken to fill it in at certain places. For years this
navigation has been a positive disgrace. All new bridges should be designed with
ample width and head room. It is vital that all waterways linking the eastern
grain-growing area and the great brick-making district at Peterborough with the
Midland canal system should be protected. Without them no revival of arable farming
can be looked for. If the Nene and Ouse navigations were remodelled and a 14-mile
canal cut from Bedford to Fenny Stratford a vast acreage of farm land would be
linked to the Midlands. We have 1,100,000 able-bodied employable men working for
work instead of the dole – G.C. Henderson.

1905

Cambridge rating committee considered the University’s Sedgwick Geological Museum.

As it was a memorial and not a commercial speculation some difficulties arose. It
had cost more than required for business purposes with materials of the very best
character, thicker walls and a good deal of superfluous work. There could be no
other tenant. The land had been purchased from Downing College at an exorbitant
rate - £6,800 per acre. Then there were the specimen cases, should they be
considered in the valuation. A museum without cases was no more a museum than a
factory was complete without its machinery.

05 01 06 # c.03
Friday 21st January

1980

Cambridge Corn Exchange could be converted into a £1.5 million concert hall and
entertainment centre after councillors voted to seek specialist advice. The Common
Market is to be asked for a grant and the Arts Council will be approached for help.
Some of the money the council hopes to raise from the sale of surplus land and
profits from the Lottery may also go towards it. There were several voices of
dissent but Coun Maurice Garner said: “It is not an elaborate and grandiose scheme.
The Corn Exchange is hardly fit for use today and we must take action

1955

Members of the Labour Party fought their way through a snowstorm to get to a
ceremony at which the Labour Hall was re-named the Alex Wood Memorial Hall in
memory of one of Cambridge’s most prominent socialists. Speakers paid tribute to Dr
Wood, who was bracketed by Mrs Leah Manning – founder member of the Cambridge
Labour Party – with Dr Albert Schweitzer and Mahatma Gandhi because of his
‘overwhelming love for humanity’. In the early days the Party was not in very great
repute and many who belonged to it were not held in great repute either, she said.

c.33

1930

From modest beginnings in Fitzroy Street the history of the House of Heffer is one
of continuous progress. The Printing Works on Hills Road has been considerable
enlarged, last year saw reconstruction of the Petty Cury Bookshop which is now
twice its original size, and this year sees the reconstruction of the Sidney Street
Stationery and Art Shop. It will be a shop worthy of its central position. The new
premises will have five floor, the frontage will be in the Georgian style with
pilasters, fascia and columns of grey polished granite and the upper part will be
faced with red Flemish bricks with Weldon stone dressings to the windows. A unique
feature will be the Picture Gallery on the third flood with a barrel-shaped ceiling

c.25

1905

The Macedonian gypsies who were touring this vicinity have got back to London. One
of them created a sensation in the Thames Police Court when he was charged with
ill-treating a horse on Tower Hill until the blood spurted from its nose. When
taken to the police station he threw himself on the floor and kicked for over an
hour. He was sent to prison for six weeks. When his wife heard the verdict she
threw down the infant she was carrying and sat screaming on the pavement for some
time

05 01 07

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

NOTE – the references eg 80 01 22 refer to CEN 22 Jan 1980 & are for digitally-
copied articles of which I have copies

Monday 24th January

1980

A man, described by the judge as a psychopath, was jailed for life for setting fire
to St Mary Magdalene Church, Ickleton. He told the court he had decided to burgle
Hinxton church but had panicked when he heard the organ being played and left,
leaving behind his burglar’s tools. He went to Ickleton and stole a set of
handbells which he wrapped in a cassock before setting fire to the church using a
candle. He was arrested while making his getaway.
800122

1955

Ely is the only town which has done nothing at all in the way of providing parking
facilities and motorists should boycott it in order to get the situation improved,
the Chief Constable said. On Market Day the High Street was choc-a-block with cars
parked bumper to bumper down both sides, leaving a narrow channel for vehicles to
pass down the middle. It was very dangerous for ladies with prams and pedestrians
trying to cross. It was the same in Market Street and in Nutholt Lane, the main
approach to the sugar beet factory, they found cattle floats parked forcing many
drivers to get on the pavement when meeting approaching vehicles. “Half of Ely is
taken up by the Cathedral and its grounds and I have only the other half to use for
parking and this is comprised of narrow streets”, he complained.
550121c

1930

An application was made for the winding up of the Cambridge Service Motor Company
of Hobson Street. It had been incorporated as a private company in 1923, taking
over the Service Motor Company engineering business. Their account was considerably
overdrawn for much of its existence and it now had an overdraft of £6,744. The
assets consisted of a number of used motor-cars of no great value. It was unable to
pay its debts and should be wound up.
300115 & 15a

c.26.48

1905

An inquest on a Soham lad heard that his death was due to his ignorance of the
dangerous nature of the liquor of which he was partaking. Gambling had been going
on at the George and Dragon and the King’s head at Soham. The licensees had
provided dice and bottles of spirits as prizes. It was by these spirits that the
poor lad was poisoned and as long as spirits are readily procurable such accidents
must occasion.

Tuesday 25th January

1980

The Cambridge police Patrol Group was set up in 1977. It is allocated specific
targets and is free to concentrate on them until the problems are solved. Following
outbreaks of crime such as handbag snatching or stolen bicycles they will ‘flood’
an area in an intensive detection campaign. The results are impressive with 97
arrests in recent months and a drop of 400 in the number of crimes recorded last
year coupled with an increase of 500 in the number of prisoners arrested.
800123

c.34.6
1955

A proposal to sell up to 300 plots of the Arbury Road housing estate for private
building was question by City Councillors. Messrs Mowlem had asked for plots for
100 houses and William Sindall were interested in another 29 fronting Arbury Road.
The council was faced with slum clearance and would have to buy land to re-house
the people displaced. The Housing Committee existed to provide as many houses for
people as possible and if builders offered to erect 300 houses with subsidy,
without adding to the rates or national taxation then they could to welcome them.
But people affected by slum clearance would not be able to afford these houses
550121

c.23

1930

The R100 airship which made a long flight from Cardington in fog was seen as a
fleeting but fascinating object over Swavesey. Emerging from the mist like a
spectre of the sky, the giant vessel attracted admiring attention as the sun
glinted on her silvery nose, which, approaching head-on, was turned into the
semblance of a full moon. She circled round the locality before disappearing in the
fog in the direction of St Ives.
300117

1905

The motor ‘bus has now passed the experimental stage and is likely to supersede
electric traction in towns such as Cambridge. ‘Motorbustle’ is the new word
invented by a gentleman on Westminster Bridge. He was going to Peckham and a friend
supposed he would travel by the electric tramcar. “No I am I in hurry, so I shall
motorbustle” he said as he stepped into the ‘Times’ motor omnibus. It is a handy
word expressive of the latest locomotion and the modern need for quick movement.

Wednesday 26th January

1980

A shortage of water hampered firemen at Fulbourn when one of the biggest fires for
many years caused about £100,000 damage to a garage workshop. The blaze left a
trail of destruction including five cars that were little more than charred wrecks.
It broke out in a converted Victorian railway goods store which once formed part of
Fulbourn station. Only the shell survives now. Nearby was an industrial complex
which included huge chemical and paint storage warehouses and a large agricultural
engineering business.
800124

1955

Cambridge has a new publishing company. The Golden Head Press has been formed to
promote the production of fine books with original subject matter that for economic
reasons would normally fall outside the province of larger publishers. It has been
run on a limited scale by Mr Raymond Lister but with its formation into a company
the scope may be widened. The Chairman is Dr Philip Grosse, a Trinity don well
known for his ‘History of Piracy’ and the secretary A.K. Astbury is a London
journalist
550122a
c.25

1930

John Robert Bennett has died, aged 90 years. A native of Cambridge he married in
1867 and built his house in Gwydir Street in 1869. At that time that part of the
town consisted mainly of fields. Since the foundation of St Matthew’s Parish he has
held the office of churchwarden on many occasions. He became the senior partner in
the form of Messrs J.R. Bennett and Sons, builders, contractors and undertakers,
of Catharine Street which had been founded by his father.
300118

1905

The largest and most destructive fire at Soham in recent years took place at Cross
Green. It originated in the roof of a thatched cottage occupied by James Boon, a
horsekeeer. Although when first noticed the flames might have been covered by a
bushel measure, they increased in size at an alarming rate and very soon the whole
block was in flames. It spread with such rapidity that firemen had to leave their
work and slide down the ladders with all possible speed. The cold was intense;
there were several degrees of frost and the icicles formed on the burning buildings
within a foot of the flames after the hose had been at work a few minutes. The town
was empty, trade was at a standstill and everyone flocked to witness the
destruction of the Old Malting.
050118 – 18b

Thursday 27th January

1980

A cat-lover who has lived in a derelict pre-war bus for the last 10 years says she
is being driven mad trying to find a proper home. She shares the converted double-
decker with her cats at Button End, Harston. It has no electricity, no running
water, no sanitation; the roof and sides are collapsing and water pours in when it
rains. Because of the damp she is unable to live in the lower deck and the upper
one is lit by oil lamps. For warmth and cooking she uses a small paraffin heater.
She says her six cats have been persistently ill. Things were not so bad when she
first bought the bus: “It was really quite sweet but then it suddenly started to go
to pot after one rainy winter”, she said.
800124a

1955

Pye Telecommunications has just despatched the first consignment of equipment to

the Sui Gas pipeline in West Pakistan. It includes an extensive communications
system providing speech and teleprinter channels, a fixed-to-mobile scheme giving
complete coverage of the pipeline route and a duplex HF radio-telephone between
Karachi and Sui. Last year a team of Pye engineers completed a survey of the route
and in a few weeks the installation team will be flying out for the final stage of
the contract.
550126

1930

Demolition work has begun on the Chesterton Sub-Police station, Mitcham’s Corner.
At one time the office of the old Chesterton Urban District Council it became a
police station on the amalgamation of Chesterton with the borough. Corner
improvements have made its removal desirable. Workmen are hurrying in and out and
already it is windowless and completely barren internally. It will be replaced by
a police-box. The familiar fire standards are also doomed to disappear; five wall
boxes have been erected which will be in operation as soon as the telephones are
installed. The change has been made because the public dislikes the breaking of
glass in the older standards and prefer to use a telephone case of emergency
300120

c.34.6

1905

We regret to announce the death of Mr Samuel Woodham at his residence in Gamlingay.

The deceased gentleman has been slowly breaking up and of late could scarcely bear
carriage exercise. He was the last of the old school which numbered such men as the
late J. U. Paine, George S, Plowman and John Gray. He was a fine horseman even up
to later years. He was a Liberal in politics and placed Gamlingay Park at the
disposal of the local association for meetings and summer picnics.

Friday 28th January

1980

Jim Borley is not the oldest working blacksmith in the area but at 80 he is defying
old age with an daily stint at the Teversham forge where he still makes gates and
pokers, quite apart from specialised fittings for a general engineering business
carried on by his two sons. He still likes a pint – his thirst developed when his
blacksmith’s shop used to be opposite the local and he could see the landlord
pulling pints as he sweated it out before the lunch break. The village did not let
his birthday pass un-noticed and 120 guests crammed into a local hall for a knees-
up with Jim setting them alight with some of his favourite Gilbert and Sullivan
numbers and one or two saucier items. Jim works on. He will do so until he drops
because he wants an interest, although he cannot shoe horses any more as bending is
difficult.
800124b

1955

The Bishop’s Palace at Ely was requisitioned by the War Office in 1943 for use as a
convalescent home and since then the Bishop has been living in the old Deanery. Now
the Church Commissions have agreed to purchase the Deanery and make it the official
residence. They will also take over full responsibility for the Palace, now used as
a school for crippled girls. There will be regrets but it is no longer appropriate
for a Minister of the Gospel to live in such as house as the Palace.
550128

1930

There was a return of undergraduate hooliganism when hundreds of ‘Varsity men

rushed one of the entrances of the Central Cinema in Hobson Street in an attempt to
see the extraordinary British talkie ‘High Treason’. The trouble arose with those
who had booked their seats. The orderliness of the queue became disorganised
through latecomers surging round the entrance and when the door was thrown open a
dense and disorderly crowd surged forward like an avalanche. The attendants
attempted to stem the tide but were bruised in their struggle to stop in inevitable
onrush. “Such a thing has never occurred before; the undergraduates were
undoubtedly the cause, they think they can do as they like. We never had all this
fuss in the vacation and we had full houses then”, the manager said.
300121

c.76.9
1905

A serious charge has been brought against the trumpeters who, on the occasion of
the Assize at Cambridge, blow a fanfare as the judge steps from his carriage at the
Shirehall. They are accused of being unable to keep in tune and wailing as
diversely as any pair of cats. I would not undertake to estimate their ability as
musicians, but as a sort of variety turn they certainly take a high place. But the
learned judge expressed himself highly pleased with the way they performed their
duties.
050121

c.34.9

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 31st January

1980

An imaginative plan to breathe life into the redundant church of All Saints in
Jesus Lane, Cambridge was unveiled by the Bishop of Ely. The diocese is seeking
planning approval for an ambitious scheme to put most of the church back into
regular use while retaining the architectural features that make it a distinctive
Victorian building. If the scheme does not go through, the only future for the
church, was closed in 1983, will be demolition or as an empty shell requiring
£100,000 of immediate repairs.

800122 # c.83

1955

Cambridge and District Co-operative Society has introduced flavoured milk. Though
not an entirely new drink the local Co-op is the only Society to produce it at
present. It is produced at their Sleaford Street dairy and is made from 86 per cent
full cream pasteurised milk, sugar and flavouring. It is available in strawberry,
banana, orange, raspberry and pineapple flavours and contained in third-pint
bottles which sell at fourpence each.
55 01 29

1930

Fire caused extensive damage to a house in High Street, Duxford. The Fire Brigade
was quickly summoned and an immediate search for water began. The nearest supply
was the river, 300 yards away. A slight delay was caused by extra hose being needed
from Cambridge and by the time it arrived flames were leaping from the roof.
Difficulty was added to the situation by the complete darkness. The only lights
available were a few torches and cycle lamps, but later aid was given by means of
spot-lights from cars.

300122 # c.34.75

1905

Continuing their compulsory itinerary, the Macedonian gypsies with their three
caravans have reached Edmonton. News of their approach preceded them and they found
sanitary officers waiting. The horses were tired and the caravans were drawn
through the parish into Tottenham. They were just as unwelcome here and they were
soon removed over the border into London. The three caravans are occupied by no
less than 52 persons and the conditions are said to be wretched in the extreme
050121a # GYPSY

qqqpp
Tuesday 1st February

1980

Ely station has again been chosen as the Motorail terminal for the whole of East
Anglia. It will offer a Thursday and Saturday overnight service to Stirling. The
service was switched from Cambridge and has been so successful there is now a doubt
whether it will ever return. This season’s fares will mean a car and family of four
travelling by sleeper at peak times will pay £156.50 for return tickets.
800126 # c.26.2

1955

Sandy Floral and Horticultural Society is to be wound up after 80 years due to lack
of interest and rising costs. It had a wonderful name throughout the county but the
number of members kept dropping and it would be a waste of time and money to hold
further meetings. Now was the time to wind up while they were still solvent. It had
enjoyed a glorious existence. Hardly a catalogue of any sort was produced nowadays
without something which had first been shown at Sandy show appearing in it. They
had had some wonderful shows and magnificent exhibits. The cups which were valued
at £190 should not be disposed of as scrap
550131

1930

Cambridge University Cinematograph Society has just started on its new film; it
will be even more ambitious than last year’s “Aunt Matilda’s Nephew”. That was a
two-reel burlesque on University life but “Varsity” is to be a more serious affair.
It will be a mixture of comedy and drama. There will be a strong love interest and
the services of some professional actresses are being sought. The director is Mr S.
Legg and the camera man Mr Graff
300125 & a # c.76.9

1905

Old actors and old journalists are almost as rare as dead donkeys or deceased
postboys. The oldest living actor is though to be Mr Edward Miles of Wisbech. He
was born in March 1815 before the era of the railroad, the telegraph and the music-
hall. He has seen Edmund Kean and Charles Kemble tread the boards, he even knew
Grimaldi. Indeed it was on the advice of that great clown that he adopted the stage
as a profession. He acted until he was 82, retiring a little over seven years ago
when he settled at Wisbech
050125 # c.76

Wednesday 2nd February

1980
The ZX80 personal computer was launched by Sinclair research of Cambridge. It can
be used in the office, the factory and the home. The creator, Mr Clive Sinclair,
says any child of 10 with normal arithmetical ability could use it. The new machine
is smaller than anything of comparable performance and also four times as cheap. In
kit form it costs £77.95 and a completely-built version will be available in March
at £99.95. It can be plugged into an ordinary television set or standard computers.
The ‘software’ can be operated through a standard tape cassette and it comes with a
130-page, step-by-step manual.
800129 # COMPUTER

1955

Plans are going ahead for the new Arbury Road Estate which should in time take a
large bite out of Cambridge’s 4,337 housing waiting list. Stage one will include
about 240 houses, flats and bungalows; a shopping centre; two churches (Church of
England and Methodist); a cinema and a publichouse. Already roads and sewers have
been laid and it is hoped to start building some of the houses this year. But the
shops will be a longer-job and will be built to keep pace with the demand. The new
Primary School should be occupied this September. The land to the south of Arbury
Road will ultimately accommodate 1,600 families in Council and privately-owned
houses and it is possible the land to the north may be developed along the same
lines.
550202 # c.23

1930

The Backs look very desolate just now for fifteen of the giant elms have been
condemned to death and the axe and saw has already accounted for most of them. The
trees are being felled because their tops have become rotten and there is a danger
of passers-by. Children are making the scene their playground and gathering
firewood to take home and young amateur woodmen trying their skills with choppers
when the workmen are not looking at them. The trees will be replaced by young elms.
There is a variety of opinion about the age of the trees; some put them at 180
years but other say none is more than 100 years old.
300201c # c.18 # BACKS

1905

Cambridge councillors were told of a fatal accident at Dant’s Ferry a few days
prior to Christmas when the breadwinner of a family was drowned. It was only one of
many; during the present winter at least five persons had tumbled into the water at
that spot. There should be a bridge in the neighbourhood of Abbey Road. But
Victoria Bridge was not a long way from Dant’s Ferry and before any bridges were
built Chesterton would have to join Cambridge.
050126 # c.44.7

Thursday 3rd February

1980

George Arnold is carrying on a family tradition. For the last 40 years he has been
pinder of Landbeach, a post his father held before him. He is responsible for
rounding up any stray farm animals and locking them in the parish pound next to the
church. The job is unpaid but he can charge owners for releasing the animals and
sell unclaimed beasts after a month and keep the cash. The last time he had any
animals in the pound was two years ago when six cows escaped from a field but he
didn’t have the hear to fine the owner. In the old days pinders could charge 6d for
every animal; that was worth half a day’s pay.
80 02 01 # POUND

1955

Flames shot 30 feet into the air as a Vampire Jet aircraft crashed in Landbeach,
narrowly missing the church, school and rectory. Villagers crowded round the
Rectory paddock where the plane fell. The crash stopped at meeting of the Women’s
Institute in the Rectory; the ladies ran out and saw the planes in flames but when
they found they could not help they resumed their meeting. The body of the pilot
was found almost at the door of the church, about 50 yards from the aircraft.
550202a # c.26.1

1930

The inaugural meeting of the Cambridge branch of the Council for the Preservation
of Rural England heard that the appearance of a Charles II house at the corner of
the road between Huntingdon and the Great North Road had recently been completely
spoiled by some dreadful enamelled signs and that Caxton – a gem of a village
surrounded by lovely undulating land – could not now be approached unless one was
‘hit in the eye’ by a horrible advertisement which blocked the way. The Bishop of
Ely said the motor business and traffic had a tremendous amount to answer for. The
petrol stations were just like fungus. In regard to local beauty spots they had
Wicken fen and also beet sugar factories. (Laughter)
300128 # c.49.1

1905

The villagers of Cottenham have been provided with a suitable building, to be known
as the Victoria Institute, in which to spend their spare time in a profitable and
enjoyable manner. It has been erected on the site of the Old Philo which has been
used as a reading room for nearly 40 years. But now Mr F. Darrell has erected the
new building at his own expense. Subscribers will have use of periodicals,
billiards etc while more unfortunate residents will be able to use the public room
where papers will be provided as well as various games including bagatelle, chess
and draughts.
050127 # HALL # c.77.7

Friday 4th February

1980
The new magistrates courts, perched above the Lion Yard car park have been built to
last for the next 100 years at a cost of £1.7 million. Some wonder how Cambridge
managed to acquire such an expensive addition to the skyline in these times of
stringent public spending cuts, the answer seems to be that it won its case just in
time. Today the verdict would be different. After years of less-than-satisfactory
courtroom conditions we have something of a showpiece. Compared to the old courts
the new carpeted building is luxury itself. “From boarding house to Hilton” was how
one prison officer described it. In fact the only criticism is that some people
will consider the edifice ‘too good’
800130 # c.34.6

1955

Magistrates were told that the Royal Hotel, Trumpington Street, Cambridge had been
granted a restricted licence in 1938, permitting them to sell drinks to residents
and persons partaking of meals, but no person could go in solely for a drink. This
could now be waived. It caused the management some embarrassment. The hotel was a
convenient place for motorists and passers-by and to go to other hotels a driver
had to plunge into the centre of the town with its maze of one-way streets. Guests
came from Addenbrooke's Hospital and Brooklands Avenue. It would not become ‘a
drinking house camouflaged as a residential hotel’
550205 # c.27.4

1930

Architects, brewers and builders gathered outside the Rose and Crown public house
on Newmarket Road, Cambridge, to witness the unveiling of a plaque proclaiming it
one of the best buildings erected in East Anglia during 1928. They then adjourned
to the very attractive club room for speeches. The Vice Chancellor said that
Cambridge had a good tradition for good beer. When he was an undergraduate there
was a college servant who sang: “I likes a glass of good beer, I does. It does you
no harm, and does you a lot of good”
300201 # c.27.4

1905

Skating would have been quite possible on the Electric Light Ground, Newnham, today
had not some evilly disposed person drawn the water from the ground the other
evening. The work was done with a care and thoroughness worthy of a better cause.
The bank of the ditch which runs from the river to the pump was cut through and so
great a fall allowed that the whole of the water on the ground was drained away.
Two ladies heard somebody at work on the bank but imagined it was the proprietor
and paid little heed. In addition to the annoyance caused the proprietor has
suffered a considerable financial hardship.
050127a # c.38 : skating

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 7th February

1980

Caxton magistrates sat for the last time before moving to the new court building at
Lion Yard, Cambridge. Some looked back through their old records going back to
1863 when courts were sometimes held in a magistrate’s house or the local pub.
Sentences were severe, particularly for theft. One man was jailed for 14 days with
hard labour in 1864 for stealing potatoes and next year a 13-year old from
Chesterton was sent to a reformatory for three years for stealing a concertina
worth five shillings. Cambridge City Magistrates Court in the Guildhall also
closed; it had been the starting point for many trials but working conditions were
now very difficult.

800202 # c.34.7

1955

The Persian Ambassador visited Cambridge to mark the inauguration of the University
Iran Association which aimed to introduce undergraduates to Iranian culture,
politics and social structure. People had heard of Persian carpets and Persian cats
and some were aware of the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company, but that was as far as it
went. Iran’s own university had established scholarships for Persians who wished to
study in Cambridge & he expressed gratitude for the facilities provided for Iranian
studies.
550207

1930

Sir – the misfortune which has fallen upon the seven tenants of Cheney Water Farm,
Steeple Morden prompts a public appeal on their behalf. The destruction of a large
brick barn and adjoining cart shed by the recent gale buried nearly all the carts
and implements used on the farm; a number of other implements are badly broken,
some beyond repair. About ten tons of chaff has also been damaged. It is urgent to
carry out repairs in order that the work on the farm can proceed but the tenants
are not in a position to bear the cost themselves. We shall be grateful for
donations of any amount – G.T. Garratt, County Councillor, E. O. Fordham Chairman
of County Smallholdings Committee

300204

1905

Mr P.R. Salmon writes: I have in my possession one of the old original song sheets
sold in the streets of Cambridge a few days after the visit of the Shah of Persia
in 1873. You will recollect that the Mayor and Vice Chancellor went with their
entourage to await his arrival at the railway station, only to find it was a hoax.
Part of the verse reads: ‘The Mayor and Council so queer did look, As from the
station they took their hook; The Chancellor the back slums did go, As he didn’t
want all the people to know, That he didn’t see the Shah of Persia”.

050204 # c.75 # c.36.9

Tuesday 8th February

1980

A Cambridge housewife is walking on air following news that her first novel has
been accepted for publication. Mrs Linda Sole has been writing for five years but
now Robert Hale has accepted her manuscript and ‘The Witch Child’, a historical
romance should be in book shops shortly. Mrs Sole originally wanted to be a
journalist, but people talked her out of it. She will write under the pseudonym of
Lynn Granville

800205

1955

Customers at the ‘Three Tuns’, Willingham continually asked for ‘shorts’, the
licensee, Percy Collett, told magistrates when applying for a full licences instead
of his existing beer-only one. It was one of the better houses and the demand for
wine and spirits justified it. The application was granted after police had no
objections. The licence for the ‘Ringers Rest’ in the village was temporarily
transferred from Vivian Hadden to Arthur Sewell.

550207a

1930

The novel sight of people being lowered from an upper window of Messrs Macintosh’s
establishment in Market Street Cambridge by means of a new automatic fire escape
has attracted considerable attention. The escape consists of a small metal box
containing geared mechanism through which runs a steel cable with a safety belt
fixed at each end. It can be fixed to the wall inside the window. The belt is
placed round the body, under the arms and the person is lowered to the ground
automatically at the rate of two feet per second. Most of the colleges have been
equipped with it. Anybody desirous of testing the escape can do so and already a
number of people, including one of the CDN photographers have done so.

300205 # c.34.75

1905

Ely medical officer reported that the want of house accommodation for the working
classes had led to cases of overcrowding. The low-level sewers in Annesdale and
Waterside had been thoroughly cleaned out and defects remedies. Three old cesspools
in connection with the sewers at Ship Quay, Blackbird’s Yard and the bottom of
Victoria Street, which required frequent emptying, had been abolished and new
manholes substituted. The emptying of ashpits was now done fortnightly and the
removal of house refuse from ash boxes and pails thrice weekly was about to be
started. The isolation hospital, he was sorry to say, did not exist, although it
was much needed.

050203 # c.21.1

Wednesday 9th February

1980

Cambridge Airport is preparing for their biggest-ever summer season of flights to

the Channel Islands. Jersey European Airways, successors to Intra Airways which has
operated the service for the past eight years is planning a weekly total of 14
return flights from April. Most passengers will travel by 48-seater turbo-prop
Herald aircraft though a flight to Guernsey will be by a 60-seater Viscount 700
aircraft. Fares have risen steeply since last year. A peak adult return fare has
gone up from £46 to £72. Flight time is one hour 20 minutes

800207 # c.26.1

1955

The Seaber Café at Red Lodge, Freckenham, a well-known roadside ‘pull-up’ on the
main Norwich to Newmarket Road was almost gutted by fire. Just after eight o’clock
Mr Reynard of the Road House Café opposite heard a loud explosion and saw the café
was ablaze. It had been open for business during the day but was closed early that
evening and the manager was away in Norwich. The explosion blew out the front and
part of the side walls of the café and furniture was strewn across the car park.
The cause of the explosion is being investigated

55 02 07b

1930

Kubelik, the world-famous violinist who is playing at Cambridge Guildhall is one of

the outstanding artists who have not succumbed to the lure of broadcasting. He
objects to the microphone on the grounds that it can never give the listener the
full benefit of a musician’s art. But he has no objection to making gramophone
records. Cambridge charms him. It is over ten years since he last visited but his
affection is undimmed.
300210 # c.69

1905

Linton’s new parish cemetery was dedicated. The churchyard and chapel burying
grounds being almost full up, the church had tried to extend their graveyard but
the Inspector would not consent owing to the proximity of the land to the river.
The Parish Council decided to make an entirely new cemetery at a cost of £500. The
situation is not unattractive, a few trees have been planted and there is ample
room for extension. There has been a good deal of discussion as to how the cemetery
should be opened. Various suggestions were made, some of them rather out of place,
including an evening service by torchlight.

05 01 27b # c.21.1

Thursday 10th February

1980

Nearly 50 squatters crammed into a tiny room in a derelict house at Fitzroy Street,
Cambridge, to stop council workmen from demolishing the building. City councillors
were on the scene of the biggest confrontation between squatters and squads of
police who failed to persuade them to move. Both sides are preparing for a long-
drawn out confrontation. The workmen intended to demolish a whole row of property
between Christchurch Street and Napier Street to make way for the first phase of
the controversial Kite shopping and parking scheme. Councillors opposing the
demolition are trying to see what action can be taken to halt the work.

800208

1955

The number of dwellings in Cambridgeshire has doubled in 20 years, figures from the
1951 census show. Most areas have seen increases of between 20 and 30 per cent but
Cambridge has increased its dwellings by 49 per cent and the adjacent Chesterton
Rural District by 32 per cent. Cambridgeshire administrative county had 50,595
structurally separate dwellings including four houseboats and 259 caravans, the
Isle of Ely had 27,043 including eight houseboats and 14 caravans and
Huntingdonshire 19,293 including 31 boats and 132 caravans.

550208

1930

A memorial to Rupert Brooke may be erected at Grantchester using part of the money
subscribed for the memorial on the Greek island of Skyros, where he died. But it
will be deferred until the Skyros memorial is completed. The Rupert Brook tradition
is still being maintainer here; there is still a fabulous sale of his poems. In
addition to his residence at Grantchester Brooke is most associated with it through
his most famous poem, the original manuscript of which is one of the lesser-known
treasures of the Fitzwilliam Museum

300210a
1905

There have been whispers of difficulties in connection with the erection of the new
premises at the corner of Downing Street, Cambridge, but they appear to have been
overcome since this week recommencement of operations has been made. The site was
cleared, and for several months nothing further was done. At length the foundations
are being put in. Let us hope it won’t be long before we are spared the expense of
having a special policeman on point duty to regulate the traffic at that corner in
consequence of the hoarding that has obstructed the view there for so long.

050204a

Friday 11th February

1980

Albert Gillett is fast gaining the reputation as ‘The Bird Man of the Fens’. At his
home at Black Horse Drove he has a collection of almost 200 British and foreign
birds. The air is filled with clucks, coos, quacks, squawks and screams from birds
of every size and description. At the back door visitors are met by the odd goose
looking for a tasty morsel or a few bantams. Mr Gillett, who runs the post office,
started his collection three years ago. Now all the cages, aviaries, pens and runs
are filled with pigeons, ducks, doves, love birds and parakeets, to name but a few.
But he is hoping to add larger varieties such as parrots.

800208a # c.19

1955

When the 1951 census was take a record was made of birthplace and nationalities.
From a total population in Cambridgeshire of 166,887, 158,383 were English born
while 2,112 came from Scotland, 1,613 from Wales and 1,151 from the Irish Republic.
There were 318 people born in the colonies and 6,476 from foreign countries
including 3,757 aliens. Whereas 63 per cent of the population of the Isle of Ely
were born in the county, only 47 per cent of Huntingdonshire residents were
actually born there thus illustrating the expansion of the population by
immigration

550209 # c.31

1930

Cambridgeshire has lost another of its ‘grand old men’ with the passing of Mr S.H.
Rowley at Histon in his 89th year. He was one of the original members of the County
Council on its formation in 1889. He scorned the ordinary election methods but his
victory was the signal for great rejoicing; the bells of Histon church were pealed
and his supporters unharnessed his horse and drew him home amid hearty cheers. He
resigned in 1896 becoming County Chief Road Surveyor, a post he held until 1909.

300211 # c.35.1 # c.44.75

1905

A disastrous fire broke out at Mr H. Kent’s farm, Swaffham Prior; of the thirteen
stacks which stood in the farmyard not a vestige remains, except a small heap of
ashes. It originated in a corner of the horse yard; Mr King immediately liberated
all the animals which were then left to their own devices. Four had strayed as far
as five miles away before a search party discovered them. About a hundred fowls
that became panic-stricken dashed into the burning stacks in their fright, and were
consumed. The only water available was from a small horse-pond and a well from
which it had to first be drawn and then conveyed in buckets to the fire engine
before being pumped on to the burning stacks.

050204b # c.34.75

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 14th February

1980

A dark spectre with a high collar and spiky hair has been terrifying staff at the
Oyster Tavern in Northampton Street, Cambridge. The ghost has been seen twice in
three weeks in the pub’s downstairs bar by the manager’s wife and a barmaid. They
saw the figure standing in the middle of the bar about midnight; it did not move
and they could not see any details of its clothes. The bar is the oldest part of
the building and used to be a grocer’s shop. There has been a history of strange
happenings at the pub but they are not planning to have the ghost exorcised as it
seems quite friendly.

800209 # GHOSTS

1955

The ‘character’ of Grange Road was an elusive quality a planning inquiry was told
when a retired scientist applied to build a house in Grange Gardens, Cambridge. But
the planners say the house, which is comparatively small, would not harmonise with
the neighbourhood. The applicant owned one plot of land but the planners would only
consent to her building on two. ‘We cannot afford large houses these days; many of
the existing houses had been converted into flats and were mediocre from an
architectural point of view. Land is increasingly difficult to get and large and
small houses should be developed, provided they were well designed’, she said.

550209

1930

Trustees of the Hinxton Hall said two main roads passed through their estate
together with some smaller ones. The County had imposed restrictions with regard to
building and fencing at three corners, to prevent the obstruction of the views of
motorists saying it was not essential to wait until a corner had yielded a crop of
accidents before imposing restrictions. They should also consider the probable
increase in the volume of motor traffic and the threatened abolition of all speed
limits. But the drastic penalties foreshadowed by the new Traffic Bill would go
some way to checking the exuberance of the reckless driver. The judge said a
restriction of 50 yards was ample at all junctions except the one at Stump Cross
but as this was injurious to the Estate they were entitled to compensation.

300213A

1905

A violinist of considerable ability is travelling the country for a wager under

peculiar circumstances and is expected to arrive in Cambridge. He is pledged to
tramp round the world in clogs and to make his living en route as a street
musician. He can only enter a house or hall by invitation. During the last few days
he has been drawing large crowds at the Hoops Hotel, Saffron Walden, where he has
been giving a series of recitals.

050208a # c.69

Tuesday 15th February

1980

A silent protest against Dr Billy Graham went wrong in Cambridge when students
missed their man. The protesting Students Against Mass Indoctrination had waited
for an hour but then marched off to another church. Seconds later the Evangelist
arrived at Great St Mary’s Church with singer Cliff Richard and walked unnoticed
into the church. Even the students who had been left behind did not realise they
had missed their man. His address attracted a large crowd and many disappointed
people had to be turned away at the door

800211 # C.83

1955

Jawaharlad Nehru, Prime Minister of India was admitted to honorary membership of

the Cambridge Union Society. He had earlier visited Trinity College where he was an
undergraduate 45 years ago; since then generations of graduates had come and gone
and there had been two great wars; the world had changed greatly and he wondered
how people at Cambridge were changing. He was here to receive an Honorary Degree
but the honorary membership of the Union Society was in a sense more precious, he
said.

550211

1930

Large crowds gathered for the stone-laying of the new Arbury Road Baptist Church
Hall and School. The new church will have the support of the Old Chesterton
Baptists who will vacate their present chapel when the new building is complete. It
will serve the needs of inhabitants of Green End Road, Milton Road and the Hurst
Park & Chesterton Hall Estates and will be able to welcome members of other
denominations. The ceremony was one of the most unique ever performed, there being
six foundation stones laid.

300214

1905

In the light of recent developments of the motor bus, Cambridge people must feel
devoutly thankful for the failure of the proposed electric tramway scheme. When it
was proposed we felt compelled to protest against the introduction of an ugly and
cumbersome system, totally unfitted to our narrow and crowded streets. We advised
the provision of ‘motor buses and the gradual abolition of even those tramlines
which exist at present. The great objection to the motor ‘bus was that it was only
in an experimental stage but now the London trials show they stand out as the road
vehicle of the future. Railway companies are adopting them as ‘feeders’ instead of
constructing additional branch lines or light railroads. We do not think anyone
would seriously argue that an electric tram system would be preferable to an
efficient motor ‘bus service for Cambridge.
050209 # c.26.46

Wednesday 16th February

1980

South Cambridgeshire District Councillors agreed an extension to their offices

costing nearly £1½ m [ONE AND A HALF MILLION POUNDS] in spite of opposition which
claimed the move was ill-timed in the light of Government cuts. At present their
administration is divided between Great Eastern House, in Station Road and South
Cambridgeshire Hall about a quarter of a mile away. The aim is to sell off this
site for offices which would help offset costs of the new council chamber and car
park. But some say there would be more advantages in developing a site outside
Cambridge with a city office to deal with the public.

800212 # c.35.6

1955

The most ‘revolutionary’ and up-to-date coach in Cambridge was given its first
official run. The new coach is owned by Progressive Coaches. Everything is done for
passenger comfort. ‘Sorbo’ rubber seats have special headrests, two heaters supply
warm air and radio loudspeakers are fitted along the roof. Fully-laden it travels
for over 20 miles on one gallon of diesel oil as it has a two-speed electrical rear
action gear device. At the flick of a switch the automatic overdrive comes into
operation, reducing gear changing and wear and tear. Mr ‘Paddy’ Harris hopes to
have a fleet of these outstanding vehicles.

500214 # c.26.46

1930

Mr Chris Waller of Bassingbourn, one of the most famous trainers and riders ‘over
the sticks’ of his day, has died as the result of a collision between his four-
wheeled American buggy and a motor car. He successfully trained and owned many
horses in the course of a long association with the Turf. He steered Jolly Sir John
in Old Joe’s Grand National of 1886 and Aladdin in 1888. As a trainer he commenced
at Welwyn and migrated to Royston whence he went to Stockbridge to manage Major
Joicey’s stud farm.

300217a

1905

On Saturday a caravan containing two families of the Macedonian gypsies passed

through Royston escorted by two constables, but some of the women managed to do
some shopping. As their pony was obviously unfit for the hills on the Buntingford
Road they camped for the night near Ashwell Station where a policeman kept
supervision over them. They pretended to know little English beyond the words
‘shilling’ but suddenly developed a knowledge of English sufficient to bargain for
hay. There were two families with nine children, unkempt and dirty. Mr Clark, an
enterprising photographer, endeavoured to take a photograph but they declined to
group themselves till they had received money. A tremendous number of post card
pictures of the group have been sold. They are apparently one of the two vans which
disappeared and were practically forgotten when the others were deported last week.

050214 # GYPSY
Thursday 17th February

1980

The old University hockey ground in Newnham hasn’t been played on for years, but
the pavilion was used as headquarters for various groups until 14 months ago. Since
then it’s stood idle and is now vandalised – a tragic misuse of facilities. The
University sold the site to Granta Housing Society in order to raise money to buy
more urgently needed land in the west of Cambridge and they now have planning
permission for 53 homes with building scheduled to go ahead any day now. They have
offered the University Hare and Hounds Society the use of the pavilion again but
the cross-country club, who now meet at the bottom of a staircase in Queens’
College say it needs too much work.

800214

1955

The Bishop of Masasi presided at a High Mass in the Chapel of Trinity College
organised by the Cambridge branch of the Universities Mission to Central Africa. It
was the first High Mass to be held there since the Reformation and the chapel was
well filled by undergraduates and a large number of city people. The U.M.C.A.
Missionaries originally settled on Zanzibar Island and then moved to Rhodesia,
Nigeria and Tangyanika. The Diocese of Masasi was where the much-criticised ground
nuts scheme started and failed because of the very poor soil.

500214a # c.83

1930

A special train was chartered to bring Mrs Albert Maltby, who lives at the West
River gatehouse, near Ely, into Cambridge. The wife of a railway employee he was
engaged in feeding her chickens when she slipped on the icy ground, breaking her
leg. The gatehouse is in a part of the fens almost inaccessible save by the railway
so a special train consisting of engine and brake was sent out to take her to
Cambridge station from where she was conveyed to Addenbrooke's Hospital in the
Borough Police ambulance

300218 # c.26.2

1905

It is doubtful whether any audience assembled in Cambridge Guildhall have been more
interested auditors than those who gathered when Captain Scott, R.N., told the
fascinating story of the discoveries made by the expedition which sailed under his
command to the Antarctic regions in 1901. Many details have been chronicled but
they are dull and uninteresting compared with an explanation from the lips of the
chief explorer. Aided by a graphic and beautiful photographic record of the region
he took his audience in imagination to every point of importance to show them
scenes of inconceivable grandeur and beauty.

050208

Friday 18th February

1980
Ciba-Geigy is planning a new railway link to their site at Duxford which would mean
13,000 fewer lorries passing through local villages. At present the plastics
factory is served by two sidings, one in Great Chesterford and the other at
Whittlesford. Loading and unloading is carried out by a fleet of lorries including
a tanker for highly inflammable methanol. Their journeys lead through narrow
winding streets. But if they obtain a rail freight facilities grant it would
provide a spur line into the site; however they need permission for a railway
crossing on the Hinxton road. Nearly everybody likes the idea.

800215

1955

It wasn’t actually snowing when Jack Ellis had his swim: it was also rather warm
for him at 36 degrees in the water and 30 degrees on the bank. This was nothing
compared to January 29th when the temperature was 16 degrees and he had to get into
the river to keep warm. Jack is 74 and the oldest of the three all-year-round
bathers at Sheep’s green baths. He has been swimming every day, except Sundays,
since he was 65

550215 # c.38 : swimming

1930

We have to record the death of Mrs Richardson, wife of Mr Charles Richardson, the
late sub-postmaster of Over. She was much respected in the village were her 34-
year’s work as sub-postmistress was greatly appreciated. Upon their retirement in
1929 villagers presented them with a silver teapot, cream jug and sugar basin,
suitably inscribed as a token of their good wishes.

300218a

1905

Casualties in the battle between the University Rifle Volunteers and the Red Army
were confined to a few rabbits and none were slaughtered by the contending armies.
While the conflict raged fiercely with fusillades of blank ammunition there was an
impromptu coursing events and as soon as a frightened hare ‘got up’ dogs were let
loose, regardless of the snapping of the rifles. The soldiers voted the civilians a
nuisance, and the civilians voted the soldiers jolly good fellows for providing an
excellent afternoon’s sports. But there was one serious incident. Mounted infantry
horses are not always properly broken in; two maddened animals plunged, rearing and
kicking in the centre of a crowd of Volunteers and spectators and one lad was
knocked down

050211 # c.45.4

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 21st February

1980

A major row over whether Papworth Hospital’s heart unit should be moved to
Cambridge has escalated. Consultants want it to be moved to Hills Road with all its
specialist and support facilities but officials from two Area Health Authorities
say the site is already overcrowded. There is an upper limit of 950 beds at New
Addenbrooke's and already have to fit in a replacement for Mill Road Hospital and a
psychiatric unit. They believe Papworth should be transferred to the new
Hinchingbrooke Hospital

80 02 16 # c.21.4

1955

A Vampire jet aircraft on a training flight from Oakington. crashed and exploded at
Comberton, killing the pilot. Flaming twisted mangled parts of the plane carpeted a
500 yards radius, a bullock was badly injured and chickens were killed. A car was
badly damaged. Pieces of the plane wreckage went through the roof of the kitchen of
Fox’s bridge Farmhouse where the farmer’s wife was working. She described the noise
as a ‘terrific tornado’ and flung herself down for safety. She tried to dial 999
but the telephone wires had been cut by the crashing aircraft.

55 02 16a # c.26.1

1930

If one morning in passing your front door you see a strange design in chalk on the
step, you may take it for granted that a tramp of the blood has passed that way and
according to the reception he received at your back door so he has decorated it.
The next tramp on seeing the pattern on the doorstep will know what to expect. The
signs include symbols for a savage dog, burglar alarm or a kind-hearted women.
Others advise ‘Pretend to be ill’, ‘You will have to do some work for what you get’
or ‘Nothing doing!’

30 02 20 # GYPSY

1905

Cambridge Women’s Temperance Association have acquired the tenancy of an East Road
property formerly known as the Barnwell Coffee Palace which they have transformed
into ‘The White Ribbon’, a well-conducted temperance establishment at which
palatable food and clean lodgings can be obtained at moderate prices. The position
of the building in one of the poorer districts has led to some apprehension but
care is to be taken to ensure that the frequenters of the establishment are
somewhat more select than formerly. It is not intended for the tramp class but for
young people who require lodgings. It contains 16 bedrooms with a tastefully-
furnished sitting room

05 02 14a # c.27.4 # c.32.9

Tuesday 22nd February

1980

A butcher’s run by the Griggs family for three generations is closing because of
new more stringent health regulations, though there have been no complaints about
hygiene standards. Ickleton, which one had a wide range of shops, will be reduced
to a grocer’s and a post office & the 500 villagers will have to travel to Sawston
or Saffron Walden. The problem arises because the Council wanted an extension for
lavatories and handbasins for the two men working in the shop who currently use the
facilities in the owner’s home. But the shop is not making enough profit to pay for
it.
80 02 19

1955

A Meteor jet aircraft made a successful forced landing at Newmarket. The pilot
informed his companion that he had run out of fuel and had to attempt a landing. He
missed the racecourse runway at his first approached and was compelled to land on
the Heath. The landing was perfect and the aircraft came to a halt at the finishing
post on the Rowley Mile course, immediately opposite the photo-finish camera. A
guard was mounted round the plane all night and the pilot took off next morning.

55 02 16b # c.26.1

1930

What is it that attracts people today? People do like jazz and syncopation is a
rhythm which appeals to the staid English ear. Cambridge Guildhall was packed for a
performance by Ania Dorfmann, one of the great pianists and the applause was
fervid. She was encored several times but her famous “Ol’ Man River” brought the
house down. Can the public taste be educated to the highest things or is it too
volatile? At any rate the public were satisfied, and that is important.

30 02 22 # c.69

1905

Magistrates heard that there were four public rooms in the fully-licensed ‘Wait For
the Bus’ at Bottisham. There were four alehouses, four beerhouses and one grocer’s
licence for a population of 624. It used to be a very good pub when the old
omnibuses used to run to Cambridge but since the railways had been opened there was
little or no traffic on the road to Burwell. The landlord, Samuel Marshman said the
trade amounted to about three barrels a month but it also provided teas and
luncheons. He did not want the licence to be extinguished.

05 02 14b # c.27.4

Wednesday 23rd February

1980

One of Cambridgeshire’s few remaining traditional bakers, Mr John Edward Wright

(known as Ted) has died. He built up the Copper Kettle firm & supplied bread to
shops all over Cambridge. He moved to Haddenham at the end of the war and later
opened a bakery and shop in Halifax Road, Cambridge as well as in Sutton &
Cottenham. He also ran the Coppper Kettle tea shop at one time. He always took
great pride in the fact that his bread was always made the traditional way with no
additives

80 02 20

1955

Houses in York Street were “drab and monotonous”; they were typical of the “very
densely populated part of Cambridge and the sort of house you visualise when you
talk of slum property”, a Judge was told when a man claimed possession of a
property in Milford Street. He had bought it in 1944 and now wished to live there;
he’d offered the tenants alternative accommodation in York Street. But they
objected to the move saying it was “a most unattractive and drab street” and that
changing houses would put them “down the social scale”. The Judge agreed saying the
two streets were entirely different in character and the houses not in any way
comparable”

55 02 18 # c.23

1930

Theophilus Percy Gallyon, the well-known gunsmith, has died. He was head of one of
the oldest Cambridge businesses, established by his great-grandfather 150 years
ago. Born at the very address in Bridge Street where his shop still stands, he took
over the business from his brother & will be succeeded by his eldest son. Deceased
was recognised as a master of his craft and at one time indulged in shooting, a
sport for which he turned out some first0class guns.

30 02 24

1905

Public interest in growing in the development of the motor omnibus service. The
most recent improvements in construction largely obviate noise and other
inconveniences. The cars travel smoothly, pick their was through traffic with ease
and are amenable to all the controls essential in crowded streets. Unlike the
tramways it involves no expense of electric installation, no overhead wires or
underground conduit and may thread its way among vehicles of all sorts without led
or hindrance. Village travellers may shortly see the carriers’ carts which have
laboured up the hill roads for generations replaced by a swift locomotion which
will make the remotest hamlet seem no more than a suburb of the market town

05 02 16 # c.26.46

Thursday 24th February

1980

The owner of Ronelles disco restaurant in Lion Yard Cambridge is delighted with the
response to the Caribbean / Polynesian theme used in the décor. He felt there was
no point in providing first-class surroundings, a sophisticate atmosphere and good
meals if they were to allow customers to come there in jeans and sweaters. So he
warned that “scruffs” would be turned away. Would-be members are also vetted before
being accepted. Admission varies from £2 to £3 and main courses in the restaurant
vary from chargrilled chicken at £2.40 to duck a l’orange at under £5. Bar prices
are only a few pence above the average

80 02 20a

1955

A scheme for the re-development of the Fitzroy Street area as the main commercial
centre of Cambridge has been submitted by a London Architect. It is a counter-
proposition to the official Development Plan which could only result in the
eventual complete destruction of the essential character of the city. The greater
part of the area consists of out-dated two-storey cottages with extensive yards and
is largely a slum. Re-development is due and can be done without the restrictions
of historical associations and high land values. There would be a series of
attractive courtyards unencumbered with traffic, one of which is large enough to
take the place of the present Market Hill. An essential feature of the scheme is a
new thoroughfare to link Gonville Place with Victoria Avenue and complete the inner
Ring Road.

55 02 18a # c.49.4 : Kite

1930

The successful crews in the Lent bumping races celebrated in traditional manner.
Hundreds of excited undergraduates in ‘bump supper’ costume filled the streets till
midnight and over it all flickered the light and smoke of bonfires. Boats were
burned amid shouting and bacchanalian merriment at St Catharine’s, Selwyn and
Emmanuel who for the first time in history had finished head of the river. An
‘eight’ was sacrificed in the paddock of the college upon a huge pyre. The
manoeuvre of getting the boat into the college proved by no means an easy one and
traffic was held up as the unwieldy craft, borne on the shoulders of the crews, was
shunted into Downing Street before being passed through the narrow gate. At St
Catharine’s the boat was escorted to the burning by a procession headed by a band
of unemployed ex-Servicemen who had been playing on the towing path

30 20 24a # c.38 : rowing # c.39

1905

Serious allegations have been made against the sanitary administration of Cambridge
in a letter to ‘The Times’. As that newspaper reaches but a small section of the
burgesses it would normally have been reprinted in the columns of the C.D.N. We
were, however, requested by the Town Clerk not to give publicity to the complaints
until a reply had been given. But now we can print both. The manner involved a
furnished apartment in which a child died from diphtheria. Finding the apartments
to let ‘The Times’ journalist took them. She claimed it had not been disinfected
and a survey showed very serious defects in the W.C. between the two bedrooms.

05 02 23 # c.21.1 # c.04

Friday 25th February

1980

Cambridge Western by-pass has opened nearly five years after the tape was cut on
the first section of the M11. It has been held up by public inquiries, redesigned
and delayed for lack of cash. It has suffered strikes, torrents of rain and banks
of snow. But the greatest single event in its history was the public inquiry which
achieved notoriety as the longest-ever hearing in the British Isles. It took 72
days of hearings spread over six months to explore every nook, cranny and cubbyhole
to the horizons of tedium and beyond. At the finish the Inspector remarked “I do
hope I survive long enough to write my report. For all your sakes”

80 02 22a

1955

Policeman found coke in car [ORIGINAL HEADLINE – THE BEST BIT OF THE STORY!]. Two
men appeared in court charged with the theft of 112 lbs of gas coke valued at 6s 6d
from Mildenhall Gas Works. Police told how they stopped a car and found three bags
of coke; the men claimed it was ‘breeze’ – a residue of coke that is sold in bulk
for hardcore, but it was found to be good clean coke. Defendant said he left three
empty sacks with a gas foreman on Friday and collected them again – full - on
Sunday mornings. Both were convicted
55 02 21 # c.24.4

1930

Sir – we Cambridge market traders notice that Councillor Longley wants to move our
stalls into the Corn Exchange but we challenge him to produce a transferred market
that has been a success. He wants to replace the stalls with car parking spaces.
Can not he see the utter foolishness of congesting the very centre of a town with
cars. Those on Market Hill consist of business townsmen, clerics and travellers who
sit in their expensive car, eat bread and cheese, beg an onion to go with it but do
little business. The Market Hill and Peas Hill are open-air markets. An arcade was
tried years ago. The building stands today, a sorry sight, in St Andrew’s Hill. The
stallholders all failed – W.J. Sambridge.

30 02 25 # c.27.3 # c.49.62

1905

A meeting of Chestertonians was held in furtherance of the scheme for constructing

a bridge across the Cam at the Fort St George. The Council has accepted the
necessity of a bridge and will spend £500 provided another £200 is raised by
private subscription. It was not a large sum for such a district. Inhabitants
should remember that once it was built they would save further expense on ferries.
Several promises were made on the spot and various college boat clubs will be
approached.

05 02 23a # c.44.7

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 28th February

1980

Everyone knows what the impact of the M11 will be. It will make most villages
quieter, and Cambridge less congested; it will send up house prices and increase
London commuting; it will encourage travel and assist local industry; it will
attract more industry; and it will mean more crime. The big question in every case
is ‘to what extent’. And here no one knows the answer. More commuting will mean
more new homes but these will be for first-time buyers who require the lowest-
possible price housing which will lead to mean construction and tight estates. This
will bring a hostile reaction from the established residents. And many will
discover they have overestimated their ability to afford commuting and mortgage
costs and are forced to move elsewhere.

80 02 22b

1955

American authorities at Lakenheath and Mildenhall are to be asked to take steps to

minimise the number of road accidents involving American car owners. The stretch of
road from Barton Mills to Brandon has the blackest record of any in England. The
hazards have been increased by Americans would are not conversant with road
conditions in this country and drove left-hand drive vehicles. A number were being
summonsed for road offences. A Brandon man was run into by an uninsured American.
He had received £5 compensation and did not look like getting any more, yet he was
incapacitated for life. None of this is calculated to improve Angl0-American
relations.

55 02 24 #

1930

One of the objects of the Council for the Preservation of Rural England is to
persuade advertisers to refrain from the use of advertisement hoardings and boards
in the countryside where they spoil the approach to villages. It is encouraging
that the Dominion Motor Spirit Company has decided to remove two large
advertisements at the entrance to Caxton village on the Old North Road. They take
the view that other means should be sought other than those which take away the
charm of the countryside

30 02 27

1905

It would appear as though the automobile is going to revolutionise transit in all

departments and the next application is likely to be the railways. The Great
Northern Railway Company have been allowing a motor manufacturing company to make
experiments upon their lines with a petrol car as a conveyance over branch lines
passing through sparsely-populated districts. It is being seriously considered
whether the automobile carriage carrying a few passengers shall not supersede the
ordinary locomotive-drawn train. The car with which experiments are being made ran
into Cambridge from Hitchin. It is driven by two engines and lighted by electricity
obtained from storage batteries. Some parts of the journey were covered at about 50
m.p.h.

05 02 25 # c.26.2 # c.26.48

Tuesday 1st March

1980

Already the new Western Bypass is having the desired effect in the Castle Hill area
of Cambridge. Thomas Whitelaw whose window overlooks the street said: “Normally the
heavy traffic starts at about 7.30 am and you get convoys of 12 to 15 heavy lorries
every few minutes sending vibrations right through the house. Now it is much
quieter”. But in Wendens Ambo villagers are demanding a new road surface,
soundproof barriers and double glazing, saying the peace and quiet of their village
has been ruined since the new section of the M11 opened nearby

80 02 26

1955

More than 100 local oarsmen gathered at the Lion Hotel to pay tribute to two
Cambridgeshire Rowing Association officials, Mr Briscoe Snelson and Mr Red Alsop.
They both came on the rowing scene about 1910 when there were nine clubs and 18
crews in the bumping races. At that time the Rob Roy Club had been head of the
river for 14 out of the previous 15 years. From 1914 the Association was dormant
for five years. It was in 1930 that the Oarmen’s Service was originated; Snelson
said: “I went along to see Canon Church, Rector of Fen Ditton and fixed it up. I
told him we wanted to come in blazers and he replied: ‘That’s all right, my dear
boy, come in pyjamas if you like!’
55 02 26 # c.38 : rowing

1930

A woman was summoned for allowing a barn at Fen Ditton to be used for immoral
purposes. She had converted it into a dance hall, teas were advertised and dances
held. Det-Sergt Willis said he looked through the window and observed people
inside. Some of the women attending were known to be of an undesirable character
and the men mostly members of the University. The girls were dancing by themselves
down the centre of the room holding up their dresses; another girl got on top of
the piano and danced. Couples frequently left and went to a nearby cottage. Later
the University Proctor arrived; he went to the dance room which was in darkness and
by the light of his lamp could see four undergraduates and seven girls. They said
they were telling ghost stories.

30 02 26a-d # FEN DITTON # dance # c.34.6

1905

The Cambridge Amateur Dramatic Club completed its 50th year of existence with a
dinner in the Guildhall. It has experienced financial embarrassment and its
defaulting cashier; it has been served with writs; in its early days it suffered
from something nearly akin to ostracism. A Royal patron and social and official
recognition followed. The first performances were given in lodgings over a shop in
Trinity Street, then moved to a room at the Hoop Hotel. In 1856 one of its members
while escorting some ladies to a ball underwent the unpleasant experience of being
served with a writ for £50 due to a carpenter

05 02 25a # c.76

Wednesday 2nd March

1980

Squatters have become a way of life in parts of Cambridge. A bloke called Bleep
started it all in 1975 when he somehow entered 13 James Street and called it home.
Squatting in the Kite had begun. Numbers swelled, including students, doctors,
nurses, research students and the unemployed. They came simply because they were
homeless and the Kite had lots of empty houses which could stay empty for years
until the time came for demolition. A lot of residents are sympathetic and
appreciate having people squatting rather than an empty property next door to them.
Some who have left the area have handed over their keys or deliberately left doors
open

80 02 26a # c.30

1955

Newmarket councillors were told that every day the housing situation was becoming
more difficult; there will be no more houses ready until July and this is a
depressing outlook for people on the housing list. It will be two years before
people in Exning will get a house. But if they build house after house then they
would be overcrowded. People who can afford to build their own houses should get
out of Council houses and let other people in.

55 03 01

1930
Unparalleled scenes were witnessed in the Mission Hall, Wicken, when disorder at
the annual parochial church meeting culminated in loud booing of the Vicar after he
had peremptorily adjourned the proceedings. About 100 parishioners were present.
The chief cause of demonstration arose from resentment, particularly among the
younger residents, against his refusal to allow the use of the hall for dancing and
other amusements. The vicar was escorted to his car by a police constable and the
parishioners remained excitedly discussing the situation as the caretaker turned
out the lights.

30 02 27 a-c # HALL # WICKEN # dance

1905

The University threw open the Senate House to the four thousand and odd voters on
the electoral roll to say ‘aye’ or ‘nay’ to the proposal that Greek shall in future
be an optional subject in the curriculum of this ancient seat of learning. There is
at present none of the wild excitement which characterised the rejection of the
claim of women to University degrees in 1896, but there is at least equal interest
for in half-an-hour about a hundred votes were registered. Masters of Arts from all
parts of England have been summoned and poured into Cambridge by rail and road, the
motor-car, as in political elections, bringing many electors to the poll.

05 03 03a # c.36.9

Thursday 3rd March

1980

Senior dons at Girton are pursuing an astonishing plan to link their college with
Cambridge by railway. They are proposing a mono-rail link which would run mainly at
ground level on university and college-owned land to the Sidgwick Avenue arts site
and University Library. The main difficulties are the high cost of the project,
which would need to cross the Huntingdon and Madingley Roads and the delicate
negotiations with other colleges. The college’s undergraduates have to cycle two
miles in all weathers to attend lectures and many have been injured in road
accidents. But two recent changes may ensure it is never built: the opening of the
Western By-pass has reduced the amount of traffic and there will soon be a cycle
lane.

80 02 27 # c.26.2 # c.49.62

1955

Messrs Burtons of High Street Huntingdon applied for an off-licence in respect of

wines and spirits. The branch had existed for over 50 years and because of the
increasing popularity of television people spend more time at home leading to a
greater demand for wines and spirits in the house. The wages of workers have
increased quite a lot and they are now in a position to have the odd bottle of wine
– perhaps for medicinal purposes or for a birthday. They look to their grocer to
supply it on the few occasions during they year when then need it. But it was
opposed by Messrs Hunter and Oliver who had an off-licence: usually when a person
wanted a bottle of wine they would telephone or write a letter and it would be
delivered.

55 03 04a # c.27.4

1930
Two bottles of dead flies were produced at Cambridge council meeting in support of
the contention that a rabbit skin factory in York Terrace was still a public
nuisance. They had been caught in neighbouring houses. Residents said life was
unbearable on many occasions and a man suffering from tuberculosis had to sleep
with his windows shut because of the obnoxious smells which were worse at night.
But the Medical Officer said that in spite of careful inspection no smells, flies
or bugs were found.

30 02 28-a # c.21.1

1905

Cambridge streets have not presented for many a long day such an animated
appearance. Trams and cabs have been doing a roaring trade, foot passengers throng
the narrow thoroughfares and motor cars dodge in an out of the traffic in a manner
that is somewhat bewildering. All this is caused by the closing scenes of the Greek
controversy. Dignified decorum is gradually giving way to infectious excitement.
When the Prime Minister, Mr Balfour, arrived at the Senate House to record his vote
he was given a rousing reception. Photographers snatched up their camera and raced
across the grass to the voters’ entrance whilst University dons covered the ground
in a manner reminiscent of the racing track.

05 03 04 # c.36.9

Friday 4th March

1980

Despite Dick Emery’s popularity on television his show at Cambridge Sports was a
non-event. Here was an ageing gentleman telling hoary old jokes; his material was
awful, he meandered off stage, down into the hall, like a lost soul searching for
intimacy. Of course there were Emery fans in the house who laughed and applauded
his patter and a couple of comic characterisations – an old man and a flashily-
dressed gossiping woman. But the funniest moment saw the old girl lifting her dress
to reveal Union Jack knickers. Any artist is likely to die the proverbial stage
death when he comes up against an audience as receptive as last week’s plum pudding
and the Hall’s acoustics didn’t help. This was one occasion when a Cambridge
audience belied its reputation for generosity. As for the supporting acts – well
it’s charitable to be brief

80 03 03

1955

Ely Rural Council has received a letter from Schweppes, the London mineral water
manufacturers asking whether there were any suitable sites for light industrial
purposes. They are interesting in acquiring a factory in the Cambridge area and had
been advised by a Board of Trade official that Ely would be a suitable place. They
would require approximately three acres of ground suitable for erecting a single
storey factory to bottling and distributing soft drinks. The Vice Chairman asked
any member with any suggestions to let the Clerk know before he sent a reply.

55 03 04b

1930

History was made on Parker’s Piece, Cambridge, when thousands of farmers and farm
workers attended a mass demonstration. The meeting was originally intended to bring
together workers in East Anglia but interest had become so wide that nearly all the
agricultural counties in England were represented. They passed a resolution
protesting against the increase in unemployment amongst
unless effective steps are at once taken then nothing but calamity faces the
industry. Visitors arrived by train, car, motor coach and bicycle, the ordinary
parking facilities were quite inadequate and cars were parked around Parker’s Piece
itself and along Victoria Avenue. More than an hour before the start crowds
assembled in front of the platform of motor lorries covered with a Union Jack and
fitted with a battery of amplifiers. They whiled away the time listening to the
Railway Band and broke into song when they played ‘Farmer’s Boy’.

30 03 01a-d # c.22 # c.32.3

1905

A large crowd was attracted to the vicinity of the University Senate House by the
unusual spectacle of clusters of electric lights suspended from its exterior walls
and the sounds from within of intermittent loud cheering. Members of the University
and a number of ladies clambered on to the window sills to watch the proceedings
within as the vote reached its conclusion. One of our reporters, whose Greek had
grown rusty, sought the assistance of a policeman to decipher an inscription.
“Well, it means ‘Alas for Greek’, doesn’t it” he replied promptly. But Greek was
triumphant and is to remain a compulsory subject within the University. The end was
heralded to those without by a burst of cheering

05 03 04 – 06 # c.36.9

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 7th March

1980

No-one can accurately foresee what will happen in eight years from now – which is
the time span said to be needed for Stansted Airport to expand to 15 million
passengers a year. This means taking another 1500 acres of land to accommodate a
new terminal and better access facilities. In addition the Government invites the
Airports Authority to define another 2,500 acres to allow for a second runway
capable of handling 25 m passengers and ultimately a stage three to handle 50 m
passengers a year. In short they have put forward a plan to make Stansted a third
major airport for London

80 03 06a

1955

British Railways had considered closing the Cambridge-Mildenhall line because of

its steady loss in revenue and uneconomic running costs. But now they hope that by
the introduction of two-car diesel units and cheaper fares they can make the line a
paying proposition. But people in Isleham had to walk to the station and in some
instances this was three miles away; others had to go to Kennett station. They
wanted convenience and had petitioned for a bus service. Messrs Murfet’s would
provide a bus into Cambridge for those who wished to shop or visit the cattle
market; it would also serve Chippenham and Snailwell.

50 03 04 # c.26.2
1930

Several people had miraculous escapes when the Church Farm House at Arrington was
almost destroyed by a fire. All but three rooms were burnt down. The occupants were
sound asleep in the upper rooms when they were awoken by the cracking of flames and
smell of smoke. The stairs soon became a mass of flames but with great presence of
mind the daughter erected a ladder against the window of the bedroom in which two
of her brothers were sleeping and they were enabled to escape. When the Royston
fire brigade arrived they made use of a pond 50 yards away but this was quickly
exhausted and water was then obtained from a ditch 350 yards away

30 03 03

1905

A practical joke of a particularly senseless character has just come to light. The
incident recalls a similar hoax that was effected during the visit to England of
the Shah of Persia years ago. The CDN became apprised of the visit but in view of
the former hoax refrained from publishing any account and our suspicion was
confirmed by a telegram from the Carlton Hotel saying ‘No member of the Sultan of
Zanzibar’s suite was away from London’. The Mayor was very cautious and took care
not to make any elaborate preparations for the reception of the visitors.

05 03 04 # c.36.9 # RAG

Tuesday 8th March

1980

A new pub has opened at Over; before last summer the building was just a tumbledown
farm hand’s cottage, now it is the Poplar Farm Inn. The whole place was gutted with
new ceilings and furniture installed by the landlord and a couple of lads from the
village. None had any experience in the building trade and learned as they went
along. In the week it has been open the pub has been packed out every night and
there are plans to introduce bar snacks and a restaurant.

80 03 10 # OVER # c.27.4

1955

Sir - While surveying the exterior of premises over the Mac Fisheries in Petty
Cury, Cambridge, I observed a row of iron spikes attached to the fascia board of
the guttering. I presume they were fixed for the purpose of breaking up the large
banks of snow leaving the roof and ensuring a more ‘equitable distribution’ on
pedestrians using the pavement below. Such fittings must be something of a rarity –
perhaps more observant readers can mention other buildings still retaining these
spikes and enlighten me on their history – D.W. Overhill

55 03 05

1930

Mr W.F. Turner has sent us a photograph of all that remains of the old Bottisham
fire engine. He came across it in an old lumberyard. It was presented to the parish
by Mr Jenyns and repaired by public subscription in 1881. Many years age there was
a fireman’s fete at Cambridge and this quaint old engine was manned by some high-
spirited undergraduates who called themselves the Darktown Brigade. They all wore
old-fashioned top hats and masks and created a good deal of fun.

30 03 08a # c.34.75

1905

Undergraduates started a bonfire on Parker’s Piece with the aid of a wooden fence
from the front of a house in Melbourne Place. One of the proctors who arrived on
the scene before the appearance of the police became the object of the amusement of
a large number of roughs, some of whom, after having smashed the hats of the
‘bulldogs’ began to hustle him. He escaped actual injury owing chiefly to the
stalwart and vigorous defence of the ‘bulldogs’ assisted by one or two townsmen.
The fire was extinguished by a bucket of water

05 03 06b # c.36.9

Wednesday 9th March

1980

The University Arms Hotel, Cambridge, will be using some of the latest technology
in solar heating to help provide hot water and cut fuel bills. Solar panels will be
built on the roof. Water pumped through them is heated by the sun’s radiation and
stored in a 2,000 gallon tank. The oil bill for the hotel only drops by half in the
summer even though no central heating is used, last year it was £27,000. Now they
hope the new £25,000 scheme will become economic within a few years. They are also
looking at heat exchangers to make use of wasted heat from the laundry.

80 03 11

1955

A strong bleak wind driving the flames on two of a row of four thatched cottages at
Fisher’s Lane, Orwell, made operations difficult for the firemen. But by their
combined efforts they confined the blaze to the roofs and upper rooms and
completely saved the rest of the row from damage. The damaged cottages were
occupied by 80 year-old Mrs Waldock and Mr & Mrs Titchmarsh. They were able to
escape without injury and a band of willing helpers did what they could to rescue
belongings until the arrival of the appliances.

55 03 07

1930

Sir – the rabbit factory in York Terrace, Cambridge, is a disgusting nuisance,

excluding a horrible stench. Had this factory been on Grange Road the foundations
would never have been dug but York Terrace stands for poverty and insignificance
and so maggots, flies and stenches should apparently be borne with that humility
that has been the bane of the workers all down the ages – P.J. Wright.

30 03 08

1905

Janet Mundy, the Bassingbourn district nurse appeared in court charged with riding
a bicycle on the footpath. PC Frost said she told him ‘What am I to do. I can’t get
about with the roads in such a state’. Next day he saw her again and he had
received numerous complaints about her. The Rev Clarkson said she was a district
nurse and had to ride a great deal. Sometimes the roads offered a choice of riding
over unbroken stones or deep ruts so she simply took to the path. If she were
acting in a private capacity it would be different. She was fined 2s.6d and the
Chairman said that if the offence were repeated the full penalty would be
inflicted.

05 03 07 # c.21.3

Thursday 10th March

1980

The Cambridgeshire Hunt’s most distinguished member is Col. Geoffrey Hurrell. He

has been High Sheriff, Lord Lieutenant, President of the East of England
Agricultural Association and an organiser of the Horse of the Year Show. On the day
before his 80th birthday he rode alongside fellow hunters at Abbottsley. He was
presented with two bottles of vintage port by the chairman of the Hunt Supporters’
Club as a token of thanks for his wholehearted support of the hunt. Col Hurrell
said: “I would not have lived half so long if I had not been so well looked after
and had so many friends. This hunting business keeps you young.”

80 03 12 # c.38 : hunting

1955

Cambridge University Airborne Club organised a parachute jump from a balloon on the
Pemberton Estate. In the first cage for jumping, which took place from the usual
height of 800 feet, were four regular soldiers; they were followed by 28 members of
the Airborne Club in drops of five, all of whom were attached to regiments of the
16th Parachute Division, Territorial Army. The wind was quite sharp and gusty and
most of those who landed were dragged yards by their inflated canopies. Quite a
crowd of spectators gathered to watch the descents and many cars and lorries were
drawn up on the Trumpington Road. All ended happily, with a cup of tea.

55 03 11 # c.45.8 # c.26.1

1930

Sir – I am one of the fortunate ones employed at the rabbit warehouse in York
Terrace, Cambridge. I came here about two years ago to grade these skins. It is a
warehouse, not a factory; there has never been an outbreak of fever among the
employees and a healthy child of 13 may start work there. To close it would add
about 20 names to the unemployment register – T.A. Edwards

30 03 08b # c.27 # c.21.1

1905

Swaffham Bulbeck electors considered a new draft scheme for regulating the Poor’s
Charity. One clause that caused such a stir related to £25 to be applied for
educational purposes and administered by a separate foundation. If carried out the
charity would be taken out of the hands of the original trustees and given to the
foundation managers. If they gave them any power they would not know where it would
finish. After considerable discussion the meeting rejected the proposals.
05 03 07 e-f # c.32.9

Friday 11th March

1980

More details have been released of the amazing project to run a mono-rail between
Girton College and Cambridge. The Swiss system employs a steel rail carried on
concrete pillars about 20 feet above the ground. Electrically-powered trains
carrying 100 people in two 50-seater cars would run five journeys each way at rush
hour at a speed of 30 mph. It would do the journey in five minutes. The train would
not be obtrusive and would make less noise than a motorcar. The scheme would cost
about £500,000 and need a private Act of Parliament.

80 03 13 # c.26.2

1955

A scheme for setting back and improving the banks of the Ely Ouse and Ten Mile
River should be finished by 1958 and coincide with the completion of the Relief
Channel. Homes accommodating 53 people are scheduled for demolition at Littleport
and it is imperative that steps now be taken to provide new housing for them. If
farm buildings are to be demolished early in 1956 farmers should be given notice so
they have time to make alternative arrangements.

55 03 11a # c.29

1930

Pungent remarks on the conduct of the Fen Ditton dance hall were made by the
chairman of the Bottisham bench in dismissing the case. It had attracted a great
deal of public attention but they had come very reluctantly to the conclusion that
the law did not admit their convicting. “If we are out to administer the moral law
then no condemnation would be sufficiently strong for the shameless and wanton
proceedings that have been allowed to occur; had we been in a position to impose a
fine it would have been a very heavy one”, he said. “I am ashamed that a young
constable should have been called upon in the course of his duty to witness the
scenes described and the only service the defendant can do us is to leave the
neighbourhood”

30 03 10b-c

1905

A company is being formed to provide a service of motor ‘buses for Cambridge. Eight
‘buses will be put down at first by which it is hoped to run a 15 minutes’ service
from Chesterton, another from the Huntingdon road district to the centre of town
and a seven minutes’ service to the railway station. Should the venture prove
successful the more outlying districts such as Newnham Croft and Cherry Hinton will
be catered for

05 03 10 # c.26.46

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 14th March

1980

More details have emerged about the amazing project for a mono-rail between Girton
College and Cambridge. It would run 20ft above the ground across farmland to a
terminus near Wolfson Court off Grange Road, crossing Huntingdon and Madingley
Road. There would be a single, probably driverless, train running at 30 mph. The
scheme now depends on negotiations with other colleges which own land the mono-rail
would cross.

80 03 13 # c.26.2

1955

With the big top a blaze of coloured lights, people streamed to Midsummer Common to
fill Chipperfields’ Circus to capacity. It is the first time any circus has
presented such a varied collection of animals, which include camels, llamas,
zebras, a giraffe and Indian pythons. Polar bears are difficult to tame but Ricardo
gets them to waltz, the black and grizzly bears delight the children, especially
when one drinks a bottle of milk. The African lions were a little restless and
snarled at Ricardo, but he made them form a pyramid and then lie at his feet. The
seals balanced balls, the poodles rode a pony and one of the elephants even did a
handstand.

55 03 15a # CIRCUS

1930

The major part of the two picturesque villages of Great and Little Abington is
still on the market although over 20 offers have been received by United Kingdom
and Overseas Ltd, the present owners of the estate. An advertisement reads:
“Village for sale – Delightful property consisting of 45 cottages, general stores
and village hall. Price £3,250. Bargain”. All the cottages are thatched; the
remainder were sold recently together with the school and inn. The post office and
old smithy are now in the market. The estate would be a useful purchase for a
working carpenter with a little money to spare as he would be able to do the
repairs to the cottages himself.

30 03 15a

1905

The Hon C.S. Rolls lectured on ‘The History of the Motor Car’ to the University
Engineering Society. He had owned the first motor car ever seen in Cambridge and
frequently got into trouble through getting back late at night after a breakdown,
but he squared numerous Dons by taken them out in the car. Many of these runs ended
in pushing the car home with the assistance of his venerable passengers.

05 03 11a-c

Tuesday 15th March

1980

New plans for Drummer Street bus station have provoked widespread criticism from
councillors. The two-storey building to accommodate offices and waiting facilities
is a large transparent structure with a domed roof. But Coun Peter Wright said: “It
looks like a large greenhouse; to see anything like that going up in the middle of
a conservation area is absolutely unbelievable”. Maurice Garner said: “I cannot say
I like it – but nothing can be worse than what we have”. It would be difficult for
handicapped people to reach the upper floor waiting rooms.

80 03 13a

1955

Plans for a new assize court at the Cambridge Guildhall would entail the entire
rebuilding of a large proportion of the existing structure; there would be parking
and traffic problems, though these would be eased with the Lion Yard multi-deck car
park. The Council would be prepared to lease the premises occupied by the Library
Department and the city sessions court could be used on payment of an agreed sum.

55 03 15 c

1930

A deputation of 60 men marched unannounced into the Saffron Walden Council Chamber
and demanded the provision of work instead of the dole. Unemployment is
particularly acute and they didn’t want to stand idle on street corners. The times
hangs heavily and they would rather be in work. At Cambridge the corporation had
provided work for the unemployed in improving dangerous corners and other schemes.
Walden council was pushing ahead with a housing scheme and hoped to use 100 percent
of unemployed labour.

30 03 15b # c.32.1

1905

There was no little stir in Toft; it seemed as if the whole village had turned out
to be present at the sale of Passive Resisters’ goods, seized for the educational
portion of the Poor Rate. The auctioneer stood on the little hillock of the Green
and offered the first lot, a silver teapot the property of Mr J. Worboys. He
followed with a watch belonging to Mr D.Creek, and a gold chain and watch from Mr A
& B.Tebbit. A gun, the property of Mr P. Roggs caused some merriment and was sold
for 12s.6d. Afterwards the company went to the Primitive Methodist Chapel for a
meeting about the injustice of the Act forced upon them by the Conservative Party

05 03 11cc # PASSIVE RESISTERS

Wednesday 16th March

1980

Villagers do not often welcome the idea of urbanisation – but that is what Fowlmere
did eight years ago when they approved plans to increase their population. County
Planners put aside extra land for housing saying that with the completion of the
M11 there would be increased demand from commuters wishing to live there. But the
Hunting Gate project was rejected by SCDC, which did not believe the development
was needed locally. Now a Government Inspector has approved it; some of the houses
in the £33,000 price range have already been reserved.

80 03 13b

1955

The Belfast Linen shop is celebrating its jubilee. 50 years ago a young man of 23
cycled into Cambridge with £100 in his pocket and an ambition to start his own
business. He was Harry Nichols. He took an empty shop in Regent Street and Belfast
Linen Warehouses had begun. It was not all easy going and there were times when he
could not even afford to buy a new suit. It is still a family concern. Royalty,
famous hotels and colleges are among his patrons and the R.101 airship on its ill-
fated flight had sheets and towels supplied by the firm.

55 03 16a # c.27.2

1930

The time is drawing near for the opening of the new ward at Addenbrooke's Hospital.
Named after T. Musgrave Francis, chairman of the General Committee. The hospital
wards get their names in various ways; sometimes it is after royalty as in
‘Victoria’ and ‘Albert’ but the most interesting in ‘Tipperary’ which was built in
1913-14. For a long time it was known as the ‘New’ Ward but the ‘long, long way’
that one had to travel to get to it reminded people of the popular song and
gradually the name stuck. The ‘Tipperary’ Ward always made the hospital look rather
lop-sided from the front, but the new ‘Musgrave’ restores the balance.

30 03 15c # c.21.4

1905

Cambridge magistrates were told there were about 440 houses on the Rock Estate with
one full-licensed house, the Rock Hotel and one off-licence. Either of these sent
out beer to houses as ordered. There are also at least four brewers’ vans to
deliver beer in gallon jars and bottles, and grocers from Cambridge send up pint
bottles. If they granted a new licence to William Conder of Marshall Road, which
was a new and fairly populous district, it would lead to secret drinking, more
especially by women at their homes. The licence was refused.

05 03 13a-c # c.27.4

Thursday 17th March

It has been a remarkable 24 hours for Papworth Hospital; first came the surprise
donation of £300,000 from David Robinson, the Newmarket multi-millionaire which
assures their heart transplant programme until 1982 and then Government announced
another £100,000 to be spent on the operating theatres and other improvements. This
makes Papworth the country’s only Government-funded heart transplant centre. The
news delighted Mr Terence English and his transplant team.

80 03 14 # c.21.4

1955

At present there are three factories in Haverhill but they used mainly female
labour; now the council is seeking to attract industries which employ men. They
will develop two industrial sites and provide homes for key workers. Aware the
under the County Development Plan new industries are limited in Cambridge they have
suggested to the City Council that any suitable applications be referred to them.
This approach has been welcomed.

55 03 16b

1930
Special prayers for the work of the Soviet Government were offered at a service at
Thaxted church. The vicar, Rev Conradl Noel, has made no secret of his extreme
political views. In his sermon he said “A good deal is being told us about Russia
in order to egg us on to fight her when the time comes”. He then came down from the
pulpit and sat in an armchair in the body of the church to answer any questions.
None were asked and the congregation rose and walked out of the church. A resident
told the CDN that the service had little interest to local people. The congregation
was chiefly composed of factory girls and people from outside who attended as a
matter of curiosity. Some years ago the Vicar raised people’s ire by hanging the
Irish Sinn Fein flag and the Red Flag in the church.

30 03 17

1905

A CDN reporter had occasion to send a telegraph message from the Swaffham Prior
post office to this paper; he then began to return to Cambridge by cycle. After a
leisurely ride he found had beaten the wire. This was an annoyance, bearing in mind
the reputed speed of electricity. It appears the message had first to be despatched
to Ely where it had to wait before being transmitted to London, from which it was
retransmitted to Cambridge. It arrived one-and-a-half hours after being sent!

05 03 17 # c.27.7

Friday 18th March

1980

Multi-millionaire David Robinson gives away money, but little else. His donation to
fund heart transplants at Papworth is his second gift to Cambridge after Robinson
College. But there could have been a third gift of £3 million for a concert hall.
The deal fell through after hard words in 1977. He also withdrew an offer to fund a
swimming pool in Newmarket. Today having sold his jet, his Scottish estate and
string of racehorses he lives in a modest bungalow. Being mentioned in newspapers
dismays Mr Robinson but his sheer acts of generosity have brought him publicity and
his name has been immortalised in the title of the college he founded.

80 03 14a

1955

Cambridge Gas Works is progressing with its new retort house near the Newmarket
Road end of River Lane. The interior of the old disused retort house has been
completely demolished and the new one should be completed by 1957. Coal will then
flow into the retorts through closed hoppers and the coke will be extracted already
quenched, eliminating a prolific source of dust and grit which has caused
complaints from nearby residents.

55 03 16c # c.24.4

1930

Demolition work has just begun on the Sidney Street corner of Sussex Street as a
first step towards the most important reconstruction scheme for the improvement of
Cambridge in many years. Sidney Sussex College will develop the whole site on
modern lines; within the next year an imposing block of buildings, providing shops
and offices will rise. It will be connected to Hobson Street by an artistically-
designed crescent and colonnade of 12 shops which will allow vehicles to pass
freely in the middle of Sussex Street.
30 03 19b # c.44.6

1905

Two Ely Passive Resisters should have appeared before magistrates for non-payment
of their education rate. Summonses had been served on each – Mr A.E. Cragg intends
to have his framed – but then both received a curt note to say the money had been
paid and the proceedings stopped. They were indignant and now must wait until the
rate becomes due again. So far no Passive Resister has graced the Ely court for on
four occasions the money has been paid anonymously

05 03 17a # PASSIVE RESISTERS

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 21st March

1980

Railwayman Charlie Langford is going to have a comfortable retirement thanks to the

passengers who pass through Shepreth station. For at a surprise presentation in the
Plough pub he was given his favourite office chair as a gift from the commuters who
use the line. “I will use it instead of my armchair, it’s much more comfortable’ he
said. He was also given a painting of the station and a first-day cover with
British Rail commemorative stamps.

80 03 14c

1955

Cambridge will be the first city to show Marlon Brando’s new film ‘The Wild One’,
which looked as if it would not be seen in Britain at all. The film censor refused
to give any certificate saying was too brutal and might have a bad effect on young
people. But the proprietor of the Rex Cinema, Mr George Webb, asked the film people
to send him a copy of the film and invited Cambridge magistrates to view it. They
have granted it a local ‘X’ certificate. Columbia Film Company will ask British
Railways to arrange special trains to Cambridge during the run. The story concerns
a gang of young hooligans who terrorise a town because of the weakness by the local
policeman.

55 03 22 # c.76.9

1930

The death of Lord Balfour the former Prime Minister, great statesman, philosopher
and Chancellor of Cambridge University will be particularly felt here. At Trinity
College in the 1870s he was rather shy but fond of music and once owned four
concertinas on which he delighted to play Handel’s oratorios when anyone could be
found to accompany him. He was renowned for the hours he would lie in bed and for
his passion for blue china and pleasant knick-knacks. His seclusion nourished the
fastidiousness of his mind and temper

30 03 19 # c.36.9

1905
Saffron Walden Co-operative Society opened new premises in High Street; the front
of premises formerly occupied by J.R. Long were pulled down and a shop with show-
room over constructed on modern principles. The rear of the building has been
repaired and a hall for the Society’s meetings constructed. The ceremony was
followed by tea for about 375 people at the Town Hall. The Society had faced
opposition when it first started in Walden and there was much competition and keen
cutting of prices.

05 03 17b

Tuesday 22nd March

1980

Waffles’ waffles have been selling like hot cakes in Cambridge for seven years. Now
the small Kite café has been mentioned in the Egon Ronay guide ‘Just A Bite’.
“Queues of hungry students form outside the door every evening at this most
welcoming of little cafes”, it writes. But Waffles’ days at its present address are
numbered because the little shop on the corner of Gold Street and Fitzroy Street is
marked for demolition as part of the Kite redevelopment programme. Set in a
devastated urban wasteland of rubble and decaying brick the café with its steamy
windows, Edwardian interior and babbling conversation provides a friendly island of
humanity.

80 03 14d # c.27.4

1955

Three cottages in Gloucester Street have been purchased by the County Council who
will demolish them to facilitate access to the land at the rear of Shire Hall. The
cottages would shortly come outside the control of the Rents Act and they wanted to
obtain possession. Until ready to start the proposed improvements they will use one
of the cottages as temporary office accommodation. The present occupants will be
rehoused in a Council house.

55 03 19

1930

At the last meeting of the Newmarket Board of Guardians important features of their
94-year history were recalled. Originally there were nine workhouses but a central
workhouse opened with the removal of the inmates of the Soham workhouse in 1837. It
was enlarged and rebuilt in 1902. Whatever else was said of the present Poor Law
System which was now passing away, no one could ever say that it was not humane.
They had to deal with men and women with whom life had dealt hardly and in no
sphere of public service had such a demand for wise judgement and sympathetic
action been more forthcoming

30 03 21 a & b # c.32.9

1905

A public meeting under the auspices of the Cottenham Total Abstinence Society was
held at the Boys’ School, giving them the opportunity of firing another shot at the
great enemy of strong drink and the drinking customs of the country. They had a
tremendous foe to fight and must bring out all the weapons they possibly could. The
new Licensing Act had been a set-back but it was not a defeat. Even the Government
was beginning to recognise the value of temperance by voting money for the teaching
of total abstinence in the ranks of the British Army

05 03 21 # c.27.4

Wednesday 23rd March

1980

More than 2,000 people marched through Cambridge on Saturday to protest at plans to
site Cruise missiles in East Anglia. Shoppers watched the protestors, who included
political and religious groups such as Quakers and Japanese Buddhist monks. They
carried models of a missile and a nuclear submarine. It was the biggest
demonstration for years and was followed by a debate between Defence Secretary
Francis Pym and prominent peace campaigner Lord Soper.

80 03 17 # c.45.8

1955

The new Highway Code – a penny-worth of multi-coloured good advice to all road
users – had its official regional launching at Cambridge Guildhall. It took ten
months to print the 10,000,000 copies which have started to flood the country; each
copy cost the Ministry of Transport 2½d [TWOPENCE HALFPENNY] to print which meant a
loss of 1½d [A PENNY HALFPENNY] a copy. Highlight of the evening was the
presentation to the Mayor of Cambridge by two local schoolchildren, Gillian Layton
and Peter Bowles, of copies autographed by the Minister of Transport.

55 03 22a

1930

There never was a time surely when there were so many works of destruction going on
as at present. Little bits of old Cambridge are going one by one and elaborate new
buildings are rising up in their place. Following demolition in Petty Cury and
Sidney Street now we see old houses and shops in Sussex Street being knocked down.
No wonder that those who come back to the town after a few years’ absence express
amazement at the changes they see. When we think of the bridges built at Newnham
and Chesterton, of the streets that have been widened, the new recreation ground
opened and the great business changes effected in the heart of the town we may well
gasp.

30 03 22 a & b # c.49.4 # c.44.6

1905

Albert Clark told the court that in November a political meeting was held at Great
Eversden and afterwards he went to the Hoops public house. A man in front of him
clapped his hands and called out ‘Good old Tory’ at which the landlord’s dog flew
at him and bit his thigh. He was laid up for 17 days. Harry Wick the postman and
Edward Hagger a farmer said the dog had flown at other people but without biting
them. The landlord said the spaniel was a very kind dog. A doctor had examined
Clark and found a scratch mark across the thigh made by a dog’s tooth, but it was
not a bite. He was awarded two guineas

05 03 22
Thursday 24th March

1980

Ely has got its traffic problems neatly sorted out nowadays. On Thursdays it is
more difficult to park because of the market which is a big attraction. But for the
rest of the week the market square is available for free parking and it us quite
easy to find a space. Day-trippers with the energy to spare might still prefer to
park in the huge car park below the cathedral. One of the most interesting
developments has been an important warehouse and industrial development close to
the centre whose occupiers include Dorman Sprayers, Verl Vale Ltd and Powerstream
Engineering.

80 03 19

1955

Cambridge Folk Museum Council have made attempts to make the long-delayed move to
Abbey House which was purchased for the Museum in 1946, but have found it quite
impossible to proceed on financial grounds. So they have decided to give the
tenants a five-year lease, as it was obvious they could not move there for some
time to come. The Museum has received a gratifying number of accessions including a
fine collection of 150 photographs taken by the late Dr Frank Robinson.

55 03 26a

1930

Cambridge Motor Service Company had taken over a firm of motor engineers and garage
proprietors in Hobson Street and hoped to acquire the business of Hunnybun and Son,
coachbuilders and painters. Then in 1927 they spent £2,000 to purchase a large
stock of electric lamps which were being retailed at a considerable profit. But the
British Thompson-Houston Company issued a writ and the present stock of lamps was
now valueless. In addition the depression in the motor trade for used cars and
dealings in sports cars for which there was at one time a good demand among
undergraduates had contributed to their failure.

30 03 27a & b # c.26.48

1905

The story of a feud between two Waterbeach farmers was unfolded in the County
Court. On Christmas Eve William Morton got out of a train at the station and went
to the Lion Inn where his horse was put up. He remained until closing time and then
rode home but somebody followed behind his cart; he used strong language and asked
what he meant by hunting him home. They came to blows and he knocked two of his
opponent’s teeth out. He was known as ‘The King of the Fens’ until he was knocked
over.

05 03 22 a & b

Friday 25th March

1980

Villages either side of the A505 trunk road have been given a reprieve from plans
which would have meant an enormous increase in traffic. The road which runs from
Luton via Baldock and Royston, is already the most heavily used single-carriageway
road in Cambridgeshire and was to have become part of a major trunk route from
South Wales to the East Coast ferry ports. But now the Government says work is
unlikely to go ahead because of cuts in the road-building programme.

80 03 21a

1955

With the installation of Perspecta Stereophonic Sound, a vivid realism hitherto

unknown in film entertainment is to be introduced to the patrons of Cambridge’s
Regal Cinema. Chosen to introduce this very latest development in the cinema world
is the film ‘Seven Brides for Seven Brothers’. Until now the Regal has been
equipped with loud speakers behind only the centre of the screen. Now the sound
will come from the exact places on the giant screen where the action indicates them
and will give a new and higher quality of sound reproduction.

55 03 26b # c.76.9

1930

The opening of the Hobb’s Pavilion, erected to commemorate the achievements of the
greatest batsman in the world, upon his native playing field is an epoch in the
annals of the game. Parker’s Piece is one of the most historic cricket grounds in
the kingdom. It shares in seniority with Broad Half-Penny Downs, of the famous
Hambleton Club and the White Conduit Club, whose playing ground was the Artillery
parade grounds at Finsbury before the Marylebone Club emerged and Thomas Lord had
opened his first ground at Dorset Square.

30 03 25 a & b

1905

The begging fraternity appear to regard Chesterton as a Happy Hunting Ground. On

the new estates, the De Freville and the Central the evil is particularly rampant
and when the male members of the households are mostly away at business the weaker
sex are particularly intimidated into relieving the able-bodied tramps who
frequently threaten violence unless they receive assistance. One actually walked
right into the kitchen and demanded money or food. The police have made an attempt
to suppress this nuisance but when the principal penalty inflected by magistrates
is to discharge the beggar on his promising to leave town the evil quickly becomes
as bad as ever.

05 03 24a # c.32.9

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 28th March

1980

An 18th-century house in Abbotsley was destroyed in a £40,000 blaze. Caldecote

Lodge, built mainly of timber, was burnt to the ground leaving just the brick
chimney stacks standing. The house, a former hunting lodge, was empty at the time.
Vic Roberts, landlord of the Plough Inn, said “It is tragic for the village because
it was a beautiful old building”

80 03 21b

1955

Cambridge’s New Theatre has introduced stereophonic sound for a production of ‘Las
Vegas’. There is nothing really revolutionary about the system which consists of a
series of loudspeakers hung in various parts of the auditorium through which the
voices of American singing stars are relayed as a background to the action on the
stage. But it does show enterprise on the part of the producers and enterprise of
any kind should be encouraged.

55 03 20 # c.76

1930

Ideal cricket weather favoured the long-awaited opening of the Hobbs Pavilion on
Parker’s Piece by the Mayor of Cambridge in the presence of Mr & Mrs Jack Hobbs. He
was the greatest cricketer the world had ever known and had learned to play within
sight of this new pavilion. All that was needed was a record of his achievements to
hang in the building, but those were not yet over. It would induce the younger
sportsmen to become keen again and to carry on the traditions so that in future
Cambridge would never be without its representatives in first-class cricket.

1905

Alderman Hurrell called attention to the decision of the Education Committee to

close Stapleford Council School and accommodate the scholars at Shelford. As this
was a mile and a quarter distant the children would have to walk five miles a day
or take their dinners with them. It was not all sunshine in the winter months when
children aged from three to five would have to get up at 7.30 and tramp away
through slush and snow. But there were 98 schools in the county with an average
attendance of less than 100 and if every little school was to be kept alive it
would mean high rates.

05 03 24c-d # c.36.6

Tuesday 29th March

1980

A row of medieval cottages in Silver Street Ely are to be given a new life in a
programme of restoration by Cambridgeshire Cottage Improvement Society that will
return them to the condition of ‘desirable homes’. They were bought some years ago
by the late H.C. Hughes, a Cambridge architect, who devoted much energy to the
restoration of old buildings. When he died he bequeathed them to the Society in the
hope they would carry out his original intention of seeing them restored. It has
been a period of crisis for the Society because the market for old cottages has
spiralled beyond their means and through the death of their tireless chairman,
Geoffrey Wood.
80 03 21c # c.61.7

1955

The reflection of the sun’s rays from a mirror upon some curtains, causing them to
smoulder and ignite, is thought to have caused a fire which broke out at The Towers
at Seward’s End, Saffron Walden. Appreciable damage was done but it was confined to
one of the towers. Some firemen entered the turret and pulling the plaster from the
walls found a beam alight. They put it out with a patent extinguisher

55 03 21

1930

With the sun’s warm rays streaming in at the windows – a fitting herald of life and
health – the new Musgrave Ward was opened at Addenbrooke's Hospital. It is an
addition to the top floor and intended as the second women’s surgical ward. It
contains 18 beds with three single-bed side wards and a balcony accommodating six
beds for open-air treatment. Its name commemorates T. Musgrave Francis, chairman of
the General Committee, who provided a tea and concert in the out-patients’
department.

30 03 28b-c # c.21.4

1905

A sad discovery was made at Ely of a tailor, found dead on the Cutter Railway
Bridge. His head was in the four-foot way, severed from the body, which was on the
other side of the line, and his hat and collar were on the buttress of the bridge.
He was last seen at 10.40 pm when he was going in the direction of the Great
Eastern Railway gates, near the station

05 03 24b # c.26.2

Wednesday 30th March

1980

Rail transport enthusiasts who want the Cambridge to St Ives branch line re-opened
have hired a 10-coach Inter-City train. It will set off from Swavesey station and
call at Longstanton, Oakington and Histon before running non-stop to Liverpool
Street. The branch line closed to passengers in October 1970 but the track has been
kept open by block freight trains carrying Spanish oranges and pulp to Cadburys at
Histon and bringing out sand from Amey Roadstone. But the track has recently been
lifted beyond Fen Drayton and the station site at St Ives has been obliterated by
the new by-pass.

80 03 24 # c.26.2

1955

Stationmasters were told that they have been Cinderellas for long enough and should
take everything that is coming. It would take some time before modernisation could
fully come into being but next year a scheme will start in Cambridge for a diesel
yard. Electrification will take place in due course, but must take its place with
other urgent schemes. People were always complaining about the lack of courtesy on
the railways and very few letters of appreciation were received.
55 03 28 # c.26.2

1930

Ely Ratepayer Association’s dinner was told that it was no good rushing ahead with
houses and factories unless they had a good sewerage scheme. They now had
electricity and a good bus service. First impressions went a long way and Palace
Green should be regularly cut and rolled as it presented a neglected appearance to
visitors. They also had a splendid display of antiquated dustbins and people could
not understand why something better could not be devised. Some people expected to
find the luxuries of a large town but they were out in the country and had to cut
their cloth accordingly.

30 03 28d-e

1905

Those motherly ladies, the motherly nurses of our land – ‘Sarah Gamps’ as they have
been designated – have rendered great service in assisting into the world the
offspring of poor parents who cannot afford to pay for a doctor. But under the
Midwives Act all such women must be qualified by training. However those who have
carried out the trade are not swept away by one stoke of the pen. In many instances
the village clergyman or doctor has paid the ten-shilling registration fee to allow
the ladies to continue.

05 03 25 # c.21.3

Thursday 31st March

1980

Cambridge firemen have uncovered a word puzzle hidden under layers of paint on one
of their fire engines. The Rolls Royce-powered Dennis was being restored for
displays when what appears to be Arabic lettering was revealed on a locker door.
Now the county fire authority wants to know how it got there. They bought the
machine brand new in 1952 at a commercial vehicle show and think it might have been
lettered on one side to attract wealthy Middle-Eastern buyers.

80 03 26a # c.34.75

1955

Paxton Park Maternity Home is to close in September. It was taken over as an

emergency war-time measure but does not provide suitable accommodation and has
inadequate sewage disposal arrangements. It is hoped to erect a maternity block at
the Huntingdon County Hospital but in the meantime they will use the Isolation
Hospital. In the event of an emergency they can call on the facilities of the
Huntingdon General Hospital.

55 04 01 # c.21.4

1930

Mystery surrounds the discovery of a tramp lying bound and gagged in a gravel pit a
mile from the main road near Ashwell. He was taken to Royston Union. The man is
believed to be of mixed Chinese and Scotch extraction and says he lives in Italy.
The police were unable to get a clear account as to how he came to be in the pit,
since he speaks only a bad Italian. A peculiar feature of the case is that he was
similarly found by a farmer in Hampshire and also in Hertford about three weeks
ago.

30 03 29 # c.32.9

1905

Considerable indignation is being felt by Chesterton ratepayers at measures adopted

by the parish to ensure the payment of the rates. Some people are being summoned
while others are not. In view of the allegations made against the overseers the law
should be stated: summonses can be issued seven days after a rate has been made and
the fact published on the church doors. But the usual practice is to send a second
notice to the ratepayers who have not complied

05 03 28a-b # c.32.6

Friday 1st April

1980

A new survey of four villages near Newmarket has revealed than none has a gas
supply, a doctor’s surgery, dispensing chemist, library or secondary school –
facilities which city-dwellers take for granted. The trend towards less labour has
resulted in many cottages and farm houses being sold or rented to non-farming
people. Agricultural workers and the gathering of mums at the school gate have
disappeared, accelerating the decay of village life. Public transport has been
reduced restricting other employment prospects. Incentives are need to encourage
private enterprise to invest in village life

80 03 26b # c.44.3

1955

Cambridge City Chess Club celebrated its Diamond Jubilee. It was formed in 1895 by
an amalgamation of the senior University Club, the Dons’ Club and a group of town
players centred around Mr E.H. Church at the Conservative Club. When in 1941 it was
bombed out of its temporary playing quarters in Mr Church’s house the Mayor
arranged for it to meet at the Scouts’ Headquarters in Grafton Street. In 60 years
it had only had three Presidents: Mr Gunston, Mr Church and Mr H.B. Coulson.

55 04 05 # c.38 : chess

1930

Interesting reminiscences were given as Chesterton Guardians passed out of

existence after 94 years. The first meeting in 1836 appeared to have been in a
public house; amongst those attending were the names of Taylor, Linton and Foster
and they still had members of these names on the Board. The final report showed the
number in the institution was 39 men, 40 women and one child.

30 03 28f-g # c.32.9

1905

Fire broke out in a stack at Spring Hall Farm, near Bottisham. It is believed to
have been caused by a tramp who went into the yard with the intention of passing
the night there and accidentally ignited the stack while lighting a pipe. The
owner, Mr H.W. Day, was away and the only occupants of the house were the servants
and children. Many people came to render assistance and the Bottisham fire engine
was taken over but it was impossible to save the stacks that were allowed to burn
out. Insure in the Northern Assurance Company, local agent H. W. Brown, Lyndewode
Road, Cambridge. [ADVERT AT BOTTOM OF THE ARTICLE]

05 03 31

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 4th April

1980

When Saffron Walden town clerk Malcolm White got a phone call to say that the
council owned an aeroplane he suspected the caller was pulling his leg. But he went
to Cleales’ old motor yard and found a dummy aeroplane that had been given by
veterans of the USAF based at Debden during the war. It consisted of a fuselage
made from an old bomber fuel tank with wings welded on. The plane is trapped in a
‘nosedive’ position because of a tree growing up and around it. The council has now
to decide what to do with it.

80 03 27a

1955

On the four main roads leading into Ely are ‘Welcome to Ely’ signs but some
practical joker has decided to give a different twist to two of them. Immediately
above the ‘Welcome’ sign has been hung a cardboard notice bearing the words ‘If you
want it you are’. Below it another sign reads ‘ We are fed up with it’. The notices
have been removed by the police

55 04 01b

1930

Perhaps fired by childhood memories of Blondin, the famous tightrope walker, a

young man attempted the perilous crossing of the River Cam in the wee small hours
of the morning. Unfortunately his skill and possibly his sobriety were not equal to
his enthusiasm. He first demonstrated his agility by climbing the lamp-post at the
end of the bridge then wandered three paces along the parapet of Magdalene Bridge
before sliding gracefully into the watery depths beneath. Although able to swim he
was exhausted by the time he reached Quayside and it took the combined efforts of
his companions and a policeman to get him out, wetter but slightly more sober

30 03 31

1905

Fire broke out in the Cambridge Corporation store and steam roller shed in the
Great Northern Goods Yard, Hills Road. Inspector Bird of the GNR was patrolling the
platform when he smelt burning. The news reached PC Fell who obtained a hose reel
from the Globe Hotel and proceeded to the scene. They found however that it was not
long enough to reach the building. Lieut. Driver and ten men arrived and with the
assistance of the police subdued the fire. The steam roller was in the shed at the
time but could have caused the fire since it had been cleaned during the day and no
fire had been lighted in it
05 04 01

Tuesday 5th April

1980

Cambridge’s new £1½ million [ONE AND A HALF MILLION POUND] magistrates’ courts
above the Lion Yard multi-storey car park were officially opened by Prince Philip.
Although he claimed to have stopped being surprised at anything he was obviously
amused that they had been built on top of a car park, but said that it was often
the most eccentric ideas which were the best. He hoped they would be required as
little as possible

80 03 28a # c.34.7

1955

The death has occurred of Mr Meridith Watling of Cambridge, a well-known landscape

painter. A native of King’s Lynn he developed his interest in art during early
boyhood. His intense love for the grandeur of the East Anglian skies enabled him to
depict many simple subjects with characteristic individuality and were it not for
his innate modesty which prevented him from exhibiting at major exhibitions his
work would have become more widely known. His paintings have been frequently shown
in Cambridge and sent to many parts of the Commonwealth

55 04 05b
1930

The disappearance of Boards of Guardians and the transference of the Poor Law work
to the Public Assistance Committees has caused some bewilderment. The chief
institution in Cambridge is that at 81a Mill Road; it was erected in 1838 as a
‘Union’ to replace numerous small parish workhouses. The name has been changed to
Poor Law Institution in recent years. The demand for accommodation became so acute
that in 1923 they had to build a new block. The Infirmary of the old Workhouse has
become a hospital with 124 beds in up-to-date wards with a large nursing staff
including three certified midwives.

30 04 01a-c # c.32.9 # c.21.4

1905

Bertram Palmer, a Meldreth fruit grower, has been sentenced to seven days
imprisonment for
refusing to pay his education rate on conscientious grounds. He was one of eight
Passive Resisters who were convicted but would not allow his goods to be seized and
removed them from the reach of the police. The magistrates passed judgement but
then left the court without signing the warrant . We understand it is the intention
of the Cambridge Passive Resisters to entertain him to a breakfast on his release
from prison

05 04 04

Wednesday 6th April

1980
Cambridge United’s dramatic transformation from Fourth Division minnows to a
respected Second Division club has brought them to heights undreamed of just a
couple of years ago. But the shock resignation of two directors raises nagging
doubts. They fear the club might be in danger of over-reaching itself financially.
There have been examples of clubs sinking back to the lower reaches of the Football
League with players’ contracts acting like millstones around their necks. However
if they had not taken risks they would not probably have been in the Football
League today.

80 03 28b # c.38 : football

1955

One of the most remarkable developments in film technique is Perspecta Stereophonic

sound which was displayed to invited guests at Cambridge’s Regal Cinema. This new
and revolutionarily piece of equipment marks yet one step further in the
development of film technique as an art. The visitors were also initiated into the
mystery of how the size of the screen is changed to allow for the showing of
popular Cinemascope films.

55 04 06 # c.76.9

1930

The new electric traffic signals are generally working well but it seems that the
average motorist accelerates when the green light is showing in order to get
through before it changes. This is particularly evident at the Northampton Street –
Castle Hill crossing in Cambridge as a driver going towards Huntingdon seeing a
stiff climb directly ahead naturally tries to get through and up the hill. But a
driver coming down often finds his car has a tendency to accurate of its own and
tries to get into Chesterton Lane a little too fast, swinging out into the standard
erected in the centre of the road.

30 04 07 # c.26.48

1905

The warrant against Mr Palmer, the Meldreth Passive Resister, was quietly executed
and to avoid publicity the police conveyed their prisoner direct to Cambridge by
cab. The journey was not without incident however; the bolt came out of one of the
shafts and the horse ran away. Some Melbourn sympathises managed to communicate
with Cambridge Resisters and a number were waiting outside the gaol to give Mr
Palmer a word of welcome when he arrived.

05 04 08b

Thursday 7th April

1980

A big security operation surrounded Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and the German
Chancellor, Helmut Schmidt, when they flew into Cambridge to attend the 30th Anglo-
German Conference which is being held in the city. Their two helicopters landed
within minutes of each other on the lawns of Trinity College and the Queen’s Flight
fire service stood by in case of emergency. They were then whisked to the dinner in
a heavily-guarded police convoy
80 03 29 # c.33

1955

A Gamlingay councillor asked whether South Cambs RDC had powers to refuse
permission to a horde of caravanners who had managed to beat the Planning
Committee. They were told that their site should be hidden from the road and then
put up ten feet of zinc which made it even more hideous. He referred to a bungalow
they had built with their own labour which he called ‘a monstrosity’. Now two more
parties have pitched into fields and are going to be as much nuisance as the
others. ‘If we allow two more places like the one we have got then Gamlingay will
not be worth living in’, he complained. But the Council’s Sanitary Officer said
that provided they complied with Public Health regulations they were obliged to
issue a licence. ‘

55 04 07a

1930

Councillor Mrs Rackham first came to Newnham College in 1895. Returning on her
marriage in 1901 she entered into public life as school manager, Guardian and town
councillor. In 1902 she started the first local branch of the Women’s Co-operative
Movement. Her clear-cut voice is well-known on radio and she has recently completed
a series of six talks from Savoy Hill on Local Government. She is also a journalist
of standing and has contributed a column to ‘The Woman’s Leader’ for the last seven
years.

30 04 08a

1905

The Cambridge Motor Omnibus Company has been formed. It is nowadays essential for
the business of the town to have a convenient and quick means of transit and the
omnibuses will be appreciated by the public and become a source of income to the
shareholders. With eight vehicles it will be quite easy to maintain a 15-minute
service from Chesterton and the Huntingdon Road to the centre of town and a seven-
minute service to the railway station. Should these prove successful it will be
extended to outlying districts such as Newnham Croft and Cherry Hinton. There is
little doubt that horse traction for omnibuses and tramcars will shortly be
superseded by petrol and electricity.

05 04 08a # c.26.46

Friday 8th April

1980

A 250-strong cavalcade of motor cyclists rode through Cambridge in a protest

against the helmet-wearing law. But police were lying in wait and the ride ground
to a halt while a dozen riders were booked for not wearing helmets. The protest
organised by the Motor Cycle Action Group continued with a police motor cycle
escort who held up traffic so that they could all stay together. The Group plans to
take their protest to the court of human rights in Strasbourg.

80 03 31 # c.26.485

1955
Cambridge Chamber of Commerce is concerned over the ‘No Parking’ signs which have
appeared in the vicinity of Market Hill. They have been erected to discourage
stallholders from using the roadway opposite their stalls as their own private
parking space. There were lines of lorries monopolising this part of town and used
as temporary warehouses for supplying the stalls. But it also greatly
inconvenienced shoppers who wished to leave their cars for a short time and some
form of restricted parking would be better.

55 04 07b

1930

To walk from Cambridge to London has been the ambition of many a healthy young man;
I decided to do the journey by night. I left at 6pm and arrived at Royston three
hours later for a substantial supper which I capped with a bottle of Guinness. It
was not a cold night and I carried only a stout stick which I’d bought in the Cury
for 7d. I met scarce anybody for tramps take shelter for the night in barns and
out-houses. But there was an almost constant stream of lorries and private cars
roaring through the night at 60 mph. My legs were getting very tired but I arrived
at my house at Golder’s Green just as the clock struck six.

30 04 08b-c

1905

Magistrates refused to renew the licence of the George and Dragon public house at
Soham. There were 14 fully-licensed public houses, 18 on beer-houses, two off beer-
houses and one grocer’s licence for a population of 4,230 people – Soham must be a
thirsty place, they commented. In the High Street there were eight pubs within 400
yards. The former landlord had allowed gambling for spirits on the premises and
proved the dice and dice-box, but he had already been punished and it was not a
disorderly house.

05 04 08 # c.27.4

Looking back, by Mike Petty

Monday 11th April

1980

With the Common Market haggling over the amount of sugar Britain should be allowed
to grow more than 2,250 Cambridgeshire growers have been getting on with the job of
drilling this year’s crop. The British Sugar Corporation has the capacity to deal
with 1.12 million tonnes of sugar from home-grown beet but the EEC want to reduce
the total output, which could put smaller factories like Ely out of business. Some
kind of compromise will probably be reached but the sugar mountain is getting
nearly as bad as the butter and beef surpluses and farmers are nervous

80 04 03

1955

A woman and two children were injured at the Cambridgeshire Hunt Point-to-Point
Races at Hemingford Abbots when Beacon Ring failed to jump a fence and went into a
crowd of 100 spectators. The race is recognised as being hard and gruelling and was
made more so due to recent heavy rains. As the race went on several horses fell and
others dropped out so there were only four as the winning post came into sight.

55 04 11b

1930

A crowd of nearly 3,000 massed in front of the loud speaker which Pye Radio had
installed in the main window of the Cambridge Guildhall. Business in the market was
suspended and the lanes between the stalls were solid with people. In the shops and
offices there was a general cessation of work; counters and desks were forsaken and
faces appeared at every window. There was a cheer when the Cambridge boat crew drew
level and overtook Oxford. Workers hurrying home eagerly bought copies of the
special edition of the CDN and pictures are being shown at the Central and Tivoli
cinema this evening.

30 03 12 # c.38 : rowing

1905

The alleged appearance of an apparition at Corpus College is recorded in ‘The

Occult Review’. It describes attempts to exorcise the spirit who says he is Thomas
Harding and killed himself in the rooms in 1707. It is a known fact that a former
Master, Dr Butts, hanged himself in these rooms but of Harding nothing has yet been
found. There are mice in the rooms but it would be difficult for any noise they
make to be mistaken for footsteps, nor could they shake a wash-stand to and fro.

05 04 08f-j # c.39

Tuesday 12th April

1980

Plans for a community bus to serve the scattered villages to the west of Huntingdon
have run into opposition from Whippet Coaches. The West Hunts Community Bus is the
result of a County Council study to improve transport and would be operated by
Keyston Coaches using a brand new coach. There will be seven main services with a
set destination but each could follow a variable route to cater for local demand.
Passengers will be able to book buses by telephone

80 04 08a # c.26.46

1955

When Sir Winston Churchill came to Cambridge in June 1946 to receive an honorary
degree of Doctor of Letters, the Public Orator saluted him as the greatest man of
his age and the shaper of its history. Now on his retirement as Prime Minister that
appraisal has been echoed around the world. Tributes have come from all parties but
London newspapers, which have been critical of him on many occasions, could not
report the news because of a dispute. I suspect the Puckish side of Sir Winston
derived a certain amount of secret amusement at their plight.

55 04 09

1930

The Cambridge Skittle League was formed in August and proved that the average man
was a sportsmen; a lot of people were inclined to ‘run down’ the public house games
such as darts, dominoes and shove ha’penny. The Skittles League met the
requirements of these people and what should be more natural than they should go to
the poor man’s club – the local inn. Publicans went out of their way to provide
every amusement and recreation

30 04 11 # c.38 : skittles

1905

A meek-looking man of middle age appeared in Cambridge court for damaging a plate-
glass window. He had then sought out a policeman and confessed, saying he could not
get any money and would rather go to gaol than the workhouse. He had a long list of
convictions for malicious damage and did no work when out of gaol. He played the
flute about the streets and also made use of a galvanic battery. There was a need
for some sort of labour colony to deal with such people. He was sentenced to five
months with hard labour

05 04 10a & b

Wednesday 13th April

1980

A march to the American base at Lakenheath by 400 people protesting at the proposed
siting of nuclear Cruise missiles in East Anglia passed off peacefully. A letter of
protest was handed to the base commander while the protestors listened to speeches.
One note of discord among the banners proclaiming ‘Uncle Sam, Take your Missiles
and Scram’ and ‘American Roulette’ was a group of young people displaying a banner
with the words ‘Yes to Missiles’

80 04 08b # c.45.8

1955

Police Sergeant Harold Holden was on the Cambridge traffic patrol when it first
started and was in charge until wireless was introduced into police vehicles. In
1946 he passed the 1st Class Police Driver’s Test and has been instructing and
examining police drivers. Now on his retirement he will run his own Driving School
using a Ford Anglia with dual controls. His mother was one of the first women to
hold a driving licence in 1908 and taught driving during the First World War.

55 04 13

1930

Referee L. Sylvester complained of the conduct of the Littleport Football Club and
their supporters when they played Wisbech Town. He said they followed him to the
dressing-room, calling him ‘everything under the sun’, and threw pieces of mangold
wurzel at him. But the Club Secretary complained that he was incompetent and his
decisions ‘bordered on the ridiculous’. The linesman had awarded a goal that was
offside and used bad language. The club had been running for over 25 years and had
only had one player ever reported. It was warned and the linesman suspended.

30 04 10

1905

A keen struggle is to be witnessed in Cambridge for the privilege of conveying

people by means of that modern convenience, the motor omnibus. On Saturday the
prospectus of the Cambridge Motor Omnibus Company made its appearance and today we
carry one for another company, the Cambridge University and Town Motor Omnibus
Company. They hope to have their first bus on the streets soon. Owing to the boom
in buses there is difficulty in securing these vehicles but they have five chassis
(the working parts) and the coach work is being pushed forward as quickly as
possible

05 04 10c # c.26.46

Thursday 14th April

1980

Major alterations have been made to the Cambridge Arms in King Street ensuring the
conservation of the old Cambridge Brewery building which has stood semi-derelict
since brewing ceased in 1925. It was established by George Scales in 1866 and then
supplied 13 public houses. The new Scales Bar extends beneath the old brewing floor
and features brick arches which supports the heavy coppers and chimney on the upper
level. Various items of brewing equipment that were removed for safe keeping have
now been returned and are displayed.

80 04 10 # c.27.4

1955

Two men were fined £10 each for stealing 16 sacks of Brussels sprouts from a field
at Ashwell. When the field was ready men were engaged as pickers on piecework. Each
20 lb [TWENTY-POUND] bag was weighed, piled in the field and then taken by tractor
to the roadside where it was removed by lorry. As the result of information
received police stopped their van and caught the men red-handed. They had taken the
sprouts from a field at Moggs Hole and were going to sell them to a man in Beeston

55 04 15a

1930

“S.O.S. Wanted a Wife. A real girl, not a church prude”. These notices have been
placed by a Horningsea bachelor on the front of his cottage. He assured a News
representative that he is quite serious. He describes himself as a poet and farmer,
born in County Cork, but refuses to divulge his age. He went to sea and lived in
the USA before coming to the village two years ago. He has published one volume of
poems but complains that with working in his garden and preparing meals, he has no
time to write. When he marries he will write a ‘best seller’

30 04 15a & b

1905

Sir – in June 1902 I purchased a house situate on Mill Road, Cambridge having a
side street with roads and paths made. To my surprise I received a letter from the
council saying that the previous owner had agreed to pay the costs of road making
by instalments but had not done so and that I have to pay the debt and the interest
for twelve months before I had the house. There must be some neglect somewhere. I
have the honour of being an Honorary Freeman of the Borough and it seems that I am
paying very dear for it. – Arthur Livermore.
05 04 11

Friday 15th April

1980

Stoke-by-Clare is the home of the Lusitano Stud and Equestrian Centre, the only
stables to offer dressage instruction using horses trained strictly along classical
lines. Lord Henry Loch has built a range of stables and a huge Olympic size indoor
school behind his Queen Anne farmhouse. People come to stay in the house and
receive four hours intensive schooling each day. They receive luxury treatment
including breakfast in bed and high-class cuisine; but this is expensive. The cost
of a ten-day course for both horse and rider is £460.

80 04 14

1955

Royston is to have an important new industry. Messrs Johnson Matthew & Co.,
engineers in and refiners of precious metals in various forms, propose to establish
a chemical centre on the industrial site. This must be encouraging to all those who
wish to see the town develop in the best way, for such an undertaking must bring
many benefits in its train. They will employ some 250 some of whom will be local
people. Roystonians will welcome the Company and receive their employees into the
family community

55 04 15b

1930

The new manager of the Broadway Kinema, St Ives, said he intended to put on most
up-to-date films of a topical character, the ‘talkies’ were also to be introduced.
But the presiding magistrate said: “We want superior films in St Ives, not so many
murders and tragedies; something in the natural history line or travel pictures”.
The manager promised to bear this in mind and he fancied it would not be long
before he knew the tastes of local people.

30 04 15c # c.76.9

1905

Mr Palmer, the Melbourn Passive Resister who determined to suffer imprisonment

rather than pay the education portion of the poor rate has emerged from Cambridge
gaol after seven days. As a teetotaler and non-smoker prison discipline brought few
privations but the food was painfully plain, all the bread was brown and there was
a bran suet pudding. He was set to work mending mailbags. He had no complaint about
his treatment by the warders but says the governor went out of his way to be
offensive

05 04 14a-c # c.34.7 # PASSIVE RESISTERS

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 18th April

1980
When the word first went out that a major feature film, ‘Chariots of Fire’ was
seeking 150 undergraduates for a couple of day’s filming in Cambridge the film-
makers found themselves oversubscribed. But the response from other sections of the
University was less enthusiastic. Gonville and Caius and Trinity College have
refused to allow filming and several ‘Cambridge’ scenes are being shot at Eton

80 04 17 # c.76.9

1955

Cambridge fish and chip sellers have called the national newspaper strike ‘a
catastrophe’. Many London chippies are running a ‘bring your own paper’ campaign.
Comics are no good as they are too small. The C.D.N. is in great demand but chip
shops say they are fighting a losing battle with the housewife who relies on it for
her fires, and things are getting difficult. Mr W. Wade of Mill Road says he can
visualise people coming to collect fish suppers in a soup tureen or saucepan.

55 04 15

1930

Damage amounting to thousands of pounds was done by an extensive fire at Mr Owen

Webb’s farm at Streetly Hall, West Wickham. A number of valuable pedigree heifers,
calves and pigs lost their lives and a great many farming implements and machinery,
together with a motor car, farm carts and a large quantity of grain were destroyed.
One of the buildings destroyed was an old thatched barn, one of the largest in the
country with solid oak beams which once formed part of a church. The farm foreman
was burned on the arms and legs when an oil tank exploded. With his clothing on
fire he rushed into the pond at the bottom of the farmyard and extinguished the
flames

30 04 16a-c # c.34.75

1905

The battle of the ‘buses in Cambridge commences in real earnest. The ‘bus armies
are known as the Motor Omnibus Company Ltd and the Cambridge University and Town
Motor Omnibus Company Ltd and will battle on practically even terms. They are of
different manufacture, the first by Thorneycroft will accommodate 32 passengers, 14
inside and 18 out. Its body is dark blue with yellow decoration. The other is the
Straker-Squire type, painted Cambridge blue. Both are driven by petrol, have non-
slipping tyres and upholstered with spring cushions inside and seats like light
garden chairs outside.

05 04 14d&e # c.26.46

Tuesday 19th April

1980

Papworth Hospital will almost certainly be rehoused at New Addenbrooke's Hospital

and not at Hinchingbrooke Hospital. For months there has been a dispute over the
relocation of the heart transplant hospital with the doctors preferring Cambridge
and the administrators Huntingdon. But any re-siting won’t be for the next 10 years
at least as the Health Authority is to spend £1 million improving all aspects of
Papworth. This will allow Mill Road Maternity Hospital and other departments to
transfer to Addenbrooke's
80 04 19a # c.21.4

1955

Following a six-week run at London’s Windmill Theatre, Mr Len Tibbs of Cherry

Hinton Road, is to make his first television appearance. He is a very popular
pianist and concert arranger but will appear in the role of comedian in ‘Show
Case’, a most popular show for artists who have not previously appeared on tv.
Cambridge audiences who have long laughed with this clever and perceptive comedian
will wish him luck and will be in front of their screens when he steps before the
camera

55 04 16 # c.27.82

1930

For years men have beaten carpets on Butt Green and children have used New Square
as a camping-out ground. But these ancient customs are soon to pass away with the
transfer of the Green to Jesus College, and the construction of a parking place in
the Square.

30 04 17 # c.39

1905

The rival Cambridge buses ran trial trips round the town to demonstrate the
suitability of this form of traction and both were eminently successful. The
Thorneycroft’s hill-climbing capacities were tested on Castle Hill and seemed to
present no difficulties except a decrease in speed; the Straker-Squire passed with
the greatest ease. Both naturally created somewhat of a sensation in the streets
and the way they threaded their way in and out of the busy traffic excited much
admiration. They were under perfect control and could pass through traffic where a
horsed vehicle would have to wait its turn.

05 04 15 # c.26.46

Waterbeach passive resisters – 05 04 19.water.

Wednesday 20th April

1980

Mill Road Library, Cambridge, which faced closure three years ago, has been given a
new lease of life with a £30,000 facelift. During the five-moth renovation work the
library staff operated from temporary mobile quarters, which on one occasion
collected a parking ticket. The library includes a new community meeting room in
place of the old reading room. County councillor Jean Ganczarski who protested
against the planned closure said; “It is very good to think the building has now
got a new life”

80 04 19b # c.77.4

1955

After completing his visit to Aero Research Ltd of Duxford the Duke of Edinburgh
had a big surprise for his hosts. As he walked towards the ‘Whirlwind’ helicopter
which was to take him back to Windsor he invited them to take a joy ride in the
aircraft. The Duke, smiling broadly, stood by as Dr de Bruyne, the managing
director and Mr Needham the chairman climbed aboard with their wives and then
watched as it took off in a huge cloud of dust and circled the area. They declared
the ‘flip’ a wonderful treat and the Duke appeared thoroughly pleased.

55 04 21a

1930

The Horningsea man who placed notices in front of his cottage appealing for a wife
says he has been inundated with letters. They have come from all parts of the
country, including Jersey. Many have come from London, from Mayfair as well as
Hampstead, from servant girls as well as from girls who run their own cars. One
letter enclosed a photograph of a delicate, refined-looking blonde, whom he
declares he will probably marry. But he will reply to all letters and hopes to have
a June bride.

30 04 19a

1905

Both Cambridge buses started to ply for hire and the novelty induced people to make
trips. Had several more ‘buses been running they would have been crowded. The scene
on Market Hill was unprecedented. Apart from those who lined one pavement in the
hope of obtaining a seat it was alive with folk who were content with watching. As
soon as a vehicle drew up a crowd swarmed around the steps, clutching the handrail
and endeavouring to get a foothold on the step. Each time there were many left
waiting on the pavement disappointed and most waited until it returned.

05 04 15 & a # c.26.46

Thursday 21st April

1980

Nearly £330,000 would have to be spent to save the old railway station at
Newmarket. It was built in 1848 and described as ‘the most sumptuously baroque
station of the early Victorian decades” but it has been empty for 18 years and
parts of it are in a dangerous condition. Now a Construction Company wants to
demolish it and build 25 houses and 27 flats on the site. A number of amenity
groups want the station to be saved but the owner says it would be better to
demolish it and preserve part of the façade in a museum.

80 04 19c # c.26.2

1955

Stansted is the nearest international airport to Cambridge and serves as the

operations base for many passenger and troop charter flights. Air Charter, Skyways
and Scottish Aviation have large maintenance facilities there. But one of the
saddest sights is the line-up of long-fuselage Tudor airlines; ominously marked
‘slave only’ these impressive machines have reached the final resting-places in
their sad careers. Based upon the Lincoln bomber it was found uneconomical to
operate because of its high fuel consumption.

55 04 22 # c.26.1
1930

Cambridge has yet another claim to distinction. Mr James Gibb, who died recently,
was the inventor of the game of ping-pong which enjoyed a tremendous vogue about 30
years ago. He was an old Cambridge athlete and started the game one evening with
champagne corks cut as nearly circular as possible and the lids of cigar-boxes for
battledores. Then he tried india-rubber balls covered with cigarette paper before
finally sending to America to have celluloid balls made.

30 04 19b # c.38 : table tennis

1905

The new Cambridge buses have experienced their first small accident. The ‘Light
Blue’ was slowing down in St Andrew’s Street and drew up close to the kerb in order
to take in a passenger. The incline of the road naturally caused a slight tilt of
the bus and as the cradles of the street lamps project over the road the two met
with the result that the top of the lamp was bent and a pane of glass smashed.

05 04 17a # c.26.46

Friday 22nd April

1980

An entirely new kind of telephone has been developed by Patcentre International of

Melbourn. It uses a high-frequency radio link which would ‘beam up’ to a microwave
receiver installed on an ordinary telephone poles or high buildings. A user wanting
to make a call would simply stand under one, dial and speak. The cost of his call
would automatically be added to his bill. The company think it has a real future
but might taken time to get accepted and production is years into the future.

80 04 21 # c.27.7

1955

Chesterton R.D.C. received a letter from Addenbrooke's to say that cases of

diphtheria would no longer be admitted to the hospital. There were outbreaks at
Impington and Trumpington, the fourth in the village. The provision of an isolation
hospital had been postponed for a long time, with the object of avoiding expense
but was now imperative. They could erect one at a cost of about £650 which would
meet the needs of the district for a long time to come.

55 04 22b # c.21.4

1930

A News reporter experienced the thrill of looping the loop in the joy-ride
aeroplane now giving flights from the Cherryhinton Road ground: “We bounced across
the bumpy field and before I was aware of it we had left the ground. We climbed
until I saw the hand of the pilot’s altitude clock creep round to the 2,000 feet
mark. Suddenly we seemed to be hurtling downwards at a tremendous speed and I felt
I had left my tummie up above. I saw fields and roads above, then the sky came back
over the top. I suppose we had been upside down, but it seemed as if it was the
world that had turned over. It was great fun”

30 04 23a # c.26.1
1905

The arrival of the motor buses does not appear to be disturbing the Cambridge
Tramway Company who are about to introduce a better service on the Post Office –
Station Road route by constructing an extra loop line. So many made bus rides ‘for
the fun of the thing’ that the trams gave many on business bent their only
opportunity for quicker transit to and from the station. The conditions will change
when ‘abnormal’ passengers on the buses have been reduced and those whose object is
facility in travelling and not amusement will have unrestricted access to the
automobiles.

05 04 17a # c.26.46 # c.26.44

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 25th April

1980

Owners of 23 houses near Stansted Airport are receiving an invitation to sell from
the British Airports Authority. The houses would be bought at market prices and
probably demolished; disturbance compensation would also be paid. The offer comes
well in advance of detailed plans for the airport expansion which are expected in
July. B.A.A. say that although a Government decisions is not expected for another
three years they wanted to let local people know what was involved as soon as
possible.

80 04 22a

1955

Thirty-four zebra crossing beacons have been damaged or stolen in Cambridge since
the beginning of the year. Police saw an undergraduate jump into the air and pull a
beacon towards him, and it broke off. When questioned the lad had said, “My name is
John Smith. Can we fix it between us so the college doesn’t get to know?” He told
the court “I suppose I did it; but I had too much to drink that night”. He was
fined £2.

55 04 23

1930

A series of events contributed to an ‘extra special’ in traffic jams, even for

Cambridge. Deadlock resulted after a motor bus, endeavouring to pass a brewer’s
dray in Bridge Street fouled a trolley used in cable laying operations. An outsize
in motor lorries added to the general melee which took P.C. Lilley fully ten
minutes to sort out. The first day of term also brought with usual ‘crop’ of taxis
and cars which added to the jam. Altogether one of the narrowest and busiest parts
of the town provided for the greater part of the afternoon something like a slow
motion traffic scene.

30 04 23f # c.26.48

1905
Bertram Palmer, the Melbourn Passive Resister said the County Gaol seemed to be the
busiest place in Cambridge. It was like a beehive. There were a number of cells and
a busy bee in each one. The warder gave him a number of mail bags to patch and said
he expected to see them done by the next day. He had to keep things clean in his
cell. He was given a bucket, a scrubbing brush, a piece of stone and a piece of
cloth. It was not at all amusing being in gaol but he had been the 150th Passive
Resister to go there and he would go again if he thought it would aid the cause.

05 04 18-c # c.34.7 # PASSIVE

Tuesday 26th April

1980

East Anglia’s railway branch lines, untouched since the Beeching axe, face a
cutback this summer because of rapidly increasing running costs, deteriorating
track and rolling stock and a cut in Government grants. Although Cambridge-based
services will not be the first to go, there are signs that they could be affected.
It is known that British Rail has been studying a scheme to close a section of the
Ely-Norwich line which serves Shippea Hill, Lakenheath and Brandon stations.

80 04 22b

1955

At the last two sales of machinery at Cambridge Cattle Market there has been
considerable congestion in all the main roads and residents complained that nearly
600 cars had been parked in the streets in addition to more than 1,000 in the
market car parks. The City Surveyor suggested demolishing loose boxes and a Nissen
hut to provide 250 more spaces. The machinery sales were probably the largest in
the world attracting buyers from overseas. About 250 tractors were refused for sale
owing to the lack of space.

55 04 26 # c.27.3

1930

Visitors to Newmarket expressed keen interest in the operation of the first fully
electrical Totalisator under racing conditions in this country. The indicator board
behind the chief rings flashed and twinkled with remarkable rapidity and the state
of the market was easily discernible. All the bookmakers had been placed along two
sides of the rails and no ‘tictacs’ or runners were allowed. Nine minutes after the
number of the winner went into the frame the dividends were declared and every
winning punter was paid out before the second race started

30 04 23g # c.38: horseracing

1905

Cambridge Medical Officer reported on the recent scarlet fever epidemic which
affected undergraduates at one college. The only common link was the milk supply.
He discovered that the dairy had obtained a supplementary supply from fifteen
different sources. One of these had a milker who had visited relatives at a village
where scarlet fever had been present and had suffered from a sore throat. But there
was no definite proof he had suffered from the disease. The dairy had stopped
distributing any milk other than that of its own cows and no further cases have
occurred.
05 04 20 a-c # c.21.1 # MILK

Wednesday 27th April

1980

The News and its sister newspapers are back in production after a seven-week
national pay-and-hours dispute which resulted in the loss of 1.75 million copies.
The dispute was over wages. The National Graphical Association wanted a flat £80 a
week basic and a 37½ [THIRTY-SEVEN AND A HALF] hour week. The employers’ side
offered £75 a week and a reduced working week by 1982. A union official welcomed
the agreement and said he was pleased that at Cambridge they had had none of the
agrro of other newspapers around the country.

80 05 13b # c.04

1955

The stretch of Newmarket Road between East Road corner and Ivett and Reed’s shop
has high accident rates and publicity is being given to the dangers of the road.
‘Accident Area’ and ‘Caution’ signs are being displayed and posters and leaflets
distributed. Last year in Cambridge 604 people were injured and a total of 1,540
accidents were reported to the police.

55 05 02a

1930

Sensational scenes were witnessed when Cambridge Town met Ipswich in a vital
football match at Milton Road. The crowd, numbering over 7,300, were annoyed by
some disputable rulings by the referee. At the final whistle they surged on to the
field and surrounded him. The situation looked very ugly when Cambridge players and
police with drawn truncheons went to his assistance. They got him to the pavilion
but the crowd tried to storm the building. When the Chairman, W.R. Paige, tried to
gain order with the aid of a megaphone he was shouted down. But for the quick work
of many police, both uniformed and plain clothes, players and officials, the
referee might have been very roughly handled.

30 04 25 # c.38 : football

1905

Cambridge Street Tramways Company have determined to improve their service by

constructing an extra passing loop in St Andrew’s Street opposite Emmanuel College
to enable them to double the number of trams on that route. But no cart would be
able to pass if two trams were standing together and there was already a great deal
of traffic at the dangerous corner with Downing Street. There was talk of some 20
motor ‘buses and if so it was unlikely whether any other traffic would venture in
the streets at all

05 04 20c # c.26.44

Thursday 28th April

1980

Wallis’ garage, which has been on the same site in Cambridge for 40 years, is to
close in July. The managing director said the decision stemmed from adverse trading
conditions and that he had already cut the price of second-hand cars on sale. The
garage also sells new Lancias. The premises at Mitcham’s Corner are up for sale.
The garage has show rooms, petrol pumps and an accessory shop together with a
repair side which is thriving in spite of other problems with the car trade.

80 05 13a # c.26.48

1955

No. 7963 is the number which Mrs Claudette Kennedy of Eltisley Avenue, Cambridge
will always bear as a reminder of four terrible years spent in the concentration
camp of Auschwitz-Birkenau. At this camp alone four million people died. She
survived because of her knowledge of biology and was put to work in a large
synthetic rubber factory, extracting rubber from dandelions. She escaped after
guards took fright at the advancing allied armies and made her way to Paris where
she was reunited with her small son. After the war she came to Cambridge for an
International conference on biochemistry where she met her husband

55 04 29a & b # c.45.7

1930

Six men were slightly injured by an explosion at the Cambridge University and Town
Gas Company’s works during the cleaning of one of the purifying boxes containing
ferric oxide. Staff made attempts to put out the fire with chemical extinguishers
but the fumes defeated them and the Fire Brigade was summoned. Working in gas-masks
they played water on the boxes for some hours. How the explosion occurred is not
clear

30 04 28a

Chesterton railway bridge: replacement – story missed out but is at 30 04 28

1905

Not a week ago motor ‘buses commenced running in Cambridge and already there is a
smart skit upon the horse trams on sale in the form of a picture postcard. The
artist has used his talent to depict a tram, a woe-begone vehicle, harnessed to an
antique horse which is fit only for the knacker’s yard. There is one solitary
passenger. With humorous impertinence he has dubbed it “A bit of old Cambridge”

05 04 22d # KEENE

Friday 29th April

1980

A 90-year-old family tradition has been broken with the retirement of Wood Ditton
landlord Mr Jack Holland. It was in the 1890s that his grandfather first took over
the tenancy of the Three Blackbirds. He was succeeded by his daughter Edith and her
husband Laurie Holland. Then in 1958, when his mother retired, Jack and his wife
Alice took over. But now the brewery, Tolly Cobbold, has turned down his son
Kenneth in favour of a different landlord. Ken, an electrician, is not too
disappointed; he had simply wanted to keep the pub in the family.

80 05 13c
1955

A mixed throng of 1,400 people revelled to non-stop music by the U.S. Air Force
‘Glenn Miller’ Band in the N.A.A.F.I. canteen at Oakington R.A.F. station. It was
this band that starred in the film hit ‘The Glenn Miller Story’ and many of the
players were recognised. From the moment the band struck up it made an enthralling
impact on the audience with the old favourites including ‘String of Pearls’, ‘In
the Mood’ and ‘Night and Day’. The audience was one of the warmest and most
receptive the band has met in their travels.

55 04 29 c & d

1930

A terrible double road fatality occurred at Cambridge about midnight when a motor-
cycle carrying a pillion passenger came into collision with a high-powered Delage
car on the Trumpington Road. The force of the impact was such that the motor-
cyclist was flung through the car windscreen and practically decapitated. His
passenger died in hospital. The car was badly damaged and the front axle was
wrenched off as it proceeded for nearly 150 yards, veering from side to side until
finally coming to rest in a hedge.

30 04 29

1905

Despite Good Friday’s gradual change to a roystering holiday it is still a day

consecrated to public religious observance & the putting aside of all business
cares. The churches were all well attended. One of the features in Cambridge is the
way in which a crowd indulges in skipping upon Parker’s Piece and the congregation
of young people there is reminiscent of the survival of a pagan spring festival.
When the skipping was at its height a young woman, who had become over-excited with
the exercise, unfortunately had a fit.

05 04 22

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 2nd May

1980

Landbeach church has received a £2,098 grant for repairing its medieval windows.
The tracery lights of three south aisle windows are being cleaned and releaded and
an east window, which has been attacked by lichen harmful to the glass, is to be
treated with fungicide. Other contractors are continuing repairs to the rest of the
building following the theft of lead from the roof last year.

80 05 13e

1955

Cambridge City Council has decided to proceed with the erection of an indoor
swimming bath on Donkey common. It is to be used for swimming only and not for
dances, concerts or meetings. But some objected as they wanted to preserve all the
open spaces they could. There were sometimes as many as ten cricket matches on
Parker’s Piece and Donkey common was a place where mothers could allow their
children to play in safety avoiding the flying cricket balls. The huts had been
placed there as a war-time expedient and it should be returned to its former state.

55 04 29e & f # c.32.3

1930

Cambridge Guildhall was crowed with an audience chiefly composed of young men and
women, but with a fair leavening of older folk, who had come to hear Dr Marie
Stopes give an address on birth control. She spoke rapidly for an hour and replied
to many questions. Thousands of mothers, having had three or four children, with
perhaps only one year between them, finding it difficult to get sufficient food and
worn out were in dread of another unwanted child. What was wanted was spaced babies
from radiant mothers. Dr Stopes had been abused, insulted and misrepresented but
she made people think and talk about birth control.

30 04 30a & b # c.31 # c.21.1

1905

Willingham is one vast flower-garden, and as the flowers are nearly all of the
purest white, they present the appearance of heaps of fallen snow. There are
hundreds of acres of plum trees in splendid bloom, a sight worth going miles to
see. Apples and pears are also giving signs of an abundance of bloom

05 04 22d

Tuesday 3rd May

1980

Villagers in Histon have rallied round to save part of their heritage. Chivers-
Hartley turned off their factory hooter after complaints about noise but this
sparked a storm of protest from villagers who claimed it has acted as an alarm
clock for more than 100 years apart from the last war when it was used as an air-
raid siren. It sounds for 20 seconds, four times a day. Now after a petition in
protest and a flood of letters the hooter has been re-instated

80 05 14a

1955

The County Council agreed that an assize court on the Guildhall site was not
practical. When the City had suggested the adapting the Central Library site they
must have known it was inadequate. Some of the supporting columns of the Lending
Library could have to go and hardly any of the reading rooms would be retained.
Cambridge needed a new Central Library but this would not be sent from Heaven. It
would have to be paid for and that was behind it – the City wanted someone else to
pay for it.

55 05 02b & c # c.77.4 # c.34.6

1930

A curious accident occurred in Melbourn when a Sentinel steam wagon crashed into
the taproom of the White Lion public house. The wagon was about to pass a Co-op van
when the driver saw another vehicle approaching. He swerved and crashed through the
wall. Two men were in the taproom at the time but they escaped injury as did the
driver and his mate. Fortunately the building was of plaster, or more serious
injuries would undoubtedly have resulted to the men. Part of the house had to be
propped up and traffic was diverted for some time.

30 04 30c # c.26.48

1905

A valued correspondent asks whether the Cambridge Town Council are going to take
any action in regard to the recently-constructed drinking place for cattle on
Midsummer Common. “In view of the recent scarlet fever epidemic which was directly
traced to infected milk their apathy is remarkable. Unless something is done the
cattle from which the milk supply of Cambridge is principally derived will shortly
be feeding on sewage” An iron trough should be inserted in the existing waterway so
that the water the cattle are drinking would escape the sewage which currently
mingles with it.

05 04 25 # c.21.1

Wednesday 4th May

1980

The picturesque Houghton Mill youth hostel will close in 1983 unless more cash can
be found. The 1,000-year-old timber-fronted building, which is owned by the
National Trust, has proved too expensive to maintain. The Youth Hostel Association
has been operating there since 1934; it is responsible for the repairs and
maintenance and faces an enormous task to raise the necessary money. The relatively
low fees – just £2 for an adult per night – have aggravated the cash problem.

80 05 14b

1955

Cambridge University Officers Training Corps is to have a wing of the Women’s Royal
Army Corps with most of the recruits coming from Girton, Newnham and New Hall. All
work would come after the prior claims of their courses and no decisive steps would
be taken until after they have graduated. The main object would be to produce good
officers but driving, vehicle maintenance, radio and photographic interpretation
may also be available. However large the numbers it will have to face a
considerable drain on the ‘marriage market’

55 05 03a # c.45

1930

Fen Drayton Parochial Church Council launched an attack on Christ’s College; they
were collecting the whole of the tithes but for the last three years had only
provided a ‘half-time’ parson. The Rev Abbott is also rector of Conington-cum-
Knapwell so the tithe payers should pay half the tithes. It has been absolutely
dishonest to take the whole of the tithes and then clip down on the services.

30 04 30d & e # c.82.01

1905

Mr James Runciman, son the veterinary surgeon of Ely, met with a serious accident
while driving his trap along the Mildenhall Road towards Littleport. His horse
shied on meeting a motor and plunged head first into a deep ditch, breaking its
neck. Mr Runciman was thrown after it and the trap overturned on top of him. He
managed to extricate himself and was taken to the house of Mr Glover, a farmer,
where he was treated with the greatest kindness. The motorists pulled up about 30
yards beyond the accident.

05 04 28a

Thursday 5th May

1980

The ‘Viscountess Bury’, best-known pleasure boat on the Cam is in danger of leaving
the river – only eight years short of her centenary. Banham Marine have decided to
advertise it for disposal on the Thames. It was launched as a battery-powered
vessel at Chiswick in 1888 and was patronised by Edward VII. It was bought by H.C.
Banham in 1910, fitted with a petrol engine and sailed up the North Sea to the
Wash, narrowly escaping loss in a storm outside Wells. Since 1911 she has been
regularly used for club outings and private festivities.

80 05 15a # c.26.3

1955

Soham’s new County Fire Station opened in Fountain Lane. When the County Council
took over fire services in 1948 the resources were lamentable. They decided that
the rural district must be served first and so had erected the first new fire
station there. With this up-to-the-minute building goes a modern type of water
tender equipped with a short-wave radio and a device for control of fires in
standing crops. The old appliance did not carry any water at all.

55 05 03b # c.34.75

1930

A young man fired two pistol shots with deadly effect by in the Lion Hotel Yard,
Cambridge. They were fired at a distance of a few yards – the first at a fire
arising from a petrol-soaked strip of carpet, the other at a roaring fire in a
wooden structure which had been soaked with tar and petrol. At each discharge a
cone-shaped column of whitish powder was projected into the base of the fire and
instantly extinguished the flames. The weapon was an ‘Antifyre’ Standard model and
the man was W. Hardesty of Hills Road, who is the district agent.

30 05 07

1905

Northumberland women lead healthy open-air lives and compare very favourably, both
in morality and physique, with the factory hands. Without them it would not be
possible to carry on agricultural labour because the rural exodus has diminished
the available supply of men. Their pay is 1s.8d a day and 3s. a day for twenty days
at harvest. This enables them to live in very great comfort as compared with the
farm servants in the Eastern Counties where there are many men with families to
keep who do not earn high wages

05 04 29a
Friday 6th May

1980

The TUC Day of Action was ignored by thousands of trade unionists in the Cambridge
area who turned up for work as normal. But this failed to dampen the spirits of
those who organised the protest against Government policies. The highlight was a
mass public meeting in Market Square, preceded by a march through the city by 250
trade unionists. It was the biggest turn out the organisers can remember in
Cambridge; when May Day marches were held there were fewer on the march than
attended a normal trades council meeting

80 05 15b # c.32.5

1955

A storm of brown dust is blowing high into the air over the Swaffham Fen area.
Growing seedlings have been uprooted and plants torn from the ground by the near
gale-force winds that have been raging in the past few days. It has caused serious
damage to crops and important drainage ditches have been filled in. Farmers are now
faced with replanting their crops. In recent years some of the landowners have been
putting layers of clay on to the open fields to prevent any dust being blown about.

55 05 05a # c.22.1 # FEN BLOW

1930

The King, who celebrated the 20th anniversary of his accession to the throne today,
attended racing at Newmarket this afternoon. He motored from Buckingham Palace
during the ceremony of changing the guard and large crowds cheered as his car left.
But only a few people noticed his arrival on the Heath. The King spent some moments
at the new electric totalisator before proceeding to the grandstand. He will remain
at Newmarket for the whole of the Spring Meeting.

30 05 06 # c.02

1905

The picture post card artist has turned his attention to the motor ‘bus service
with an amusing sketch of one of Cambridge’s up-to-date vehicles. The ‘bus is
plunging along at a terrific rate, much to the alarm of a female passenger, who,
evidently to the driver’s satisfaction, has thrown her arms around his neck to
ensure her safety. Simultaneously the ‘bus has struck a lamppost and run over a
dog, so it will be seen that the artists has not had to rely entirely upon his
imagination for the incidents of the sketch

05 04 29b & c # KEENE

`Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 9th May

1980

Haddenham Farmland Museum has been saved from closure by the generosity of a local
firm. Ideson’s Garage, Stretham, in conjunction with Lada cars has stepped in and
offered half the amount the museum needs to stay alive and extend its facilities
and a number of large companies have offered the remaining sponsorship. It will
enable the museum to expand to cater for larger groups, including school children

80 05 17 # c.03

1955

Within ten years working hours in industry may be cut to no more than four a day
and we shall all retire at the age of 40. Machines will soon replace the human
element in many industrial concerns & there could be automatic factories without
human hands touching anything. Electric brains can now replace men’s work and are
getting near to being ‘thinking machines’, the Cambridge Business Men’s Club was
told

55 05 05b

1930

The Cambridge branch of the Association of Plasterers and Granolithic and Cement
Workers celebrated its 50th anniversary. Mr G. Cook, their first secretary said
they had experienced strikes and lock-outs; they had acted on the defensive and had
been aggressive. They had a proud record for bettering the conditions for the
workers. At one time they were 100 per cent organised and still had 95 per cent
membership

30 05 12 # c.23

1905

Fifty years ago Messrs Richard and Septimus Holttum the well-known drapers and
grocers started their business at Linton. They celebrated with a tea to old
inhabitants of the village; 135 assembled in the British School where a substantial
meal was provided. Subsequently an excellent programme of songs and recitals was
presented. The event was crowned with complete success and will be remembered by
those who took part for the remainder of their lives as one of the happiest and
most enjoyable.

05 05 05

Tuesday 10th May

1980

The demolition of houses and shops in the Kite area of Cambridge and the eviction
of squatters have been stopped by the city council’s new Labour administration.
Lawyers are examining the future of the controversial £15 million shopping and
parking scheme. The Kite Co-ordinating Group which has been leading opposition to
the scheme will publish an alternative development plan aimed at retaining the
character of the area. Labour wants more housing and less shopping and parking in
the area

80 05 20

1955
The Arts Theatre unveiled an extension to its Roof Garden restaurant, decorated in
gay modern style and complete with the latest Espresso Coffee equipment. Some
regretted the reduction of the outdoor terrace space but with the fickle English
climate the new area would prove an agreeable amenity both for meals and during
theatre intervals. Losses in the theatre could only be made up by profits from the
Cinema, scenery studio and catering activities. Once the novelty of television had
worn off an increasing number of people would again seek the solid satisfaction of
liver performances.

55 05 11 # c.76

1930

The new talkie installation nearing completion at the Tivoli cinema, Cambridge, is
manufactured by British Acoustic and was selected on account of its purity of
reproduction. The entire sound equipment is duplicated so that no failure or
breakdown can interfere with the performance. The programme selected for the
opening week features Maurice Chevalier in ‘Innocents in Paris’ supported by the
comedy ‘Talkie’.

30 05 10a & b # c.76.9

1905

The University and the New Theatre have joined hands to warn undergraduates that
ungentlemanly behaviour will not be tolerated. A warning was placed in every
programme and supplemented by a speech between the acts by J.W. Clark, registrary
of the University and Chairman of the Theatre Company. His words were received with
respect by the audience, already in high spirits by a splendid production of the
‘Mikado’. He was loudly cheered as he walked on to the stage and at the conclusion
he was accorded quite an ovation.

05 05 02a # c.76

Wednesday 11th May

1980

Cambridge customers who have missed their Mitcham’s Corner branch of Barclays’ Bank
over the past two and a half years will be delighted to visit their brand new
premises with its large car park. On the ground floor is the main banking hall
housing 10 cashier positions and one Foreign till. There will be two receptionists
to help customers with their enquiries, whilst two managers and two assistant
managers have offices on the first floor.

80 05 21 # c.32.8

1955

Firemen were called to Earith when fire broke out at the Boat inn. Its thatched
roof was completely destroyed and the rest of the premises severely damaged. The
licensee, Mr Darby, was away at the time and a passer by who saw smoke coming from
the building gave the alarm. Villagers removed a large quantity of furniture. The
thatched roofs of a group of nearby houses were ignited by flying sparks but
firemen prevented serious damage to these buildings. The cause of the fire is not
known
55 05 06b

1930

Messrs Chivers told the court that they had been growing fruit at Barrington for
more than 20 years. They had two plantations growing raspberries, greengages and
Victoria plums near the summit of a hill. In 1927 the Cement Company started a new
works half-a-mile to the south and soon their pickers started to experience
unpleasant smells. The raspberry crop was scorched and shrivelled by dust and the
same thing happened to the plums. It was caused by considerable quantities of dust
from the company’s new chimney stacks.

30 05 15a & b # c.22.3

1905

An outbreak of fire occurred at the premises of Messrs Hallack and Bond, wholesale
grocers, Petty Cury, Cambridge. About 11.18 pm smoke and flames were discovered
issuing from a store room. The alarm was at once given and the horsed fire escape,
tender and hose cart were soon on the scene. With the aid of one hydrant, the
inmates of the building and the firemen succeeded in extinguishing the outbreak
just in time to prevent a serious conflagration

05 05 02b # c.27.2

Thursday 12th May

1980

Cambridgeshire County Council may soon own the largest fleet of big electrically-
powered library vehicles in the world. An experiment started a year ago has proved
so successful that the Library Service now wants to dispose of its entire fleet of
diesel and petrol-powered vehicles and go electric altogether. The new vehicles
would be twice as fast as the present 17 mph vehicle which has proved to be at
least £1,000 a year cheaper to run that the others and been free from breakdowns.

80 05 22a # c.77

1955

A new room for exhibitions and storage of water colour paintings was opened at the
Fitzwilliam Museum. It consists of a gallery and a small reference library for the
benefit of serious students of art. It was largely funded by a gift of £10,000 from
the executors of the late Walford Graham Robertson who was one of the greatest
collectors of the work of William Blake and gave the museum six important works by
him which are now on show

55 05 06a # c.03

1930

An NSPCC Inspector told the court that he entered a cottage at Croydon which was in
a filthy and deplorable state. There was very an old iron bedstead, a patched
mattress and a few articles of old and dirty clothing which had been used as a bed
covering. The mattress in the bedroom used by the children consisted of a sack of
brown flock. The children were in a verminous condition and their clothing in a
filthy state. They had been taken to the Caxton Institution. The father was out of
work and the mother needed to look after a child who was in hospital. They were
each fined £5.

30 05 13a & b

1905

John Pink, the veteran Cambridge Librarian says that a man ceases to read books
after attaining the age of 40. Library statistics show that older men do not borrow
books but read more periodicals. The newspaper of today is a very different thing
to what it was 40 years ago; around the newspapers in the reading room were many
men, some eagerly peeping over each other’s shoulders and several reading monthly
magazines. Nor does the present generation read as much as before, athleticism
occupies too much of their time, he feels

05 05 01a & b # c.77

Friday 13th May

1980

When Margot and Derek Andrews gave up their teaching jobs to set up as potters at
Prickwillow they didn’t set out to make a fortune. But they have achieved their own
independent world where they make a living by their craftwork. Now after five years
they find that most of their orders come from people who look around the workshops;
a number arrive on boating holidays and more come in groups in the evening. This is
something they never originally envisaged and they now serve cups of coffee to
visitors.

80 05 22b

1955

A gaping hole, nine feet in circumference and about a foot deep, was blown in the
path beside Trinity College bridge last night. It is believed that a stick of
dynamite was used as a student said he heard a terrific explosion and the building
shook. The explosion caused leaves to be blown off trees nearby. This is the third
time within a year that a deep pit has appeared near the bridge and last week it
was decorated with planks and trowels. But two porters and a gardener denied all
knowledge and the college spokesman had nothing to say.

55 05 12a # c.36.9 # c.44.5

1930

Agriculture has been termed ‘the hopeless subject which no Government cares to
tackle’ but it employs more men than other industries, except building. Now Mr G.T.
Garratt, the former Labour candidate for Cambridgeshire has written a book drawing
on his practical experience on a farm and as a county councillor. He says a million
men and their families are tied to a decaying industry, bitterly divided socially
and economically and politically impotent with no leaders for the future. Control
of the land must be in the hands of the local councils which can provide modern
buildings and parcel out lands for farms capable of becoming sound economic units.

30 05 14 # c.22

1905
Owing to the enormous demand for the current issue of the ‘Cambridgeshire Weekly
News’, the entire edition was sold out on the day of issue, and we regret that we
are not able to supply the numerous orders that continue to arrive. To avoid
disappointment in future, place a definite order with your newsagent. The ‘Weekly
News’ is the best local weekly paper: sale exceeds 10,000 copies

05 05 06a # c.04

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 16th May

1980

St Thomas’ Hall, a new community centre in Ancaster Way, Cambridge was opened by
the Mayor who said mistakes had been made in the past where facilities were not
provided on big estates, but good intentions were one thing and money another. In
1975 a city council plan was dropped for lack of cash but St Martin’s parish church
came up with an offer to build it and much of the money came from gifts and
donations. It was designed by Brian Hogg, a church elder and includes a hall
seating 100.

80 05 23a

1955

A Grantchester landlord told the bankruptcy court that when he took the pub in 1951
he had spent £185 on a domestic refrigerator, £75 on one for ice-cream and £203 on
a cooling plant; a glass-washing machine cost £90; such expenditure could not be
justified. The summers of 1953 and 1954 had been very wet and some days there were
no takings at all, though fires were lit and waitresses employed in expectation of
trade. Then the barman pilfered £300-worth of stock. But he had acquired a Lagonda
motor car costing £902 on hire purchase.

55 05 12b

1930

A councillor complained that in 1921 an agreement had been signed with the Ortona
Bus Company allowing them a monopoly of buses on the streets of Cambridge for a
payment of £250 a year. “They have had a jolly good picking. There are no workmen’s
tickets, no children’s tickets, no cheap tickets, which you get in any other town”.
The Mayor said the streets were already so congested that it was not possible to
have competitive services in operation. But Ortona had been issued with extra
licences to run buses on those same narrow streets.

30 05 15 & a # c.26.46

1905

John Philip Sousa with his famous band performed at Cambridge Guildhall but they
are capable of filling a much larger building with a wonderful volume of sound. The
programme included selections from the works of Wagner and Puccini. Encore followed
each item and in response some of Sousa’s celebrated military marches were given
with great effect

05 05 06b # c.69
Tuesday 17th May

1980

The unveiling of a village sign will clear up an argument which has raged for
years. Ancient records show that the hamlet was named Pimore but over the years it
had become either Pymore or Pymoor, according to fancy. Most local people spell it
‘o-o-r’ but the clerk of Lt Downham Parish Council says he uses ‘o-r-e’ and always
will do. Two signs in the village both spell it differently. But now a new wooden
sign has been carved, reading ‘Pymoor’. It will be unveiled at Pymore Hill. The
name means ‘flies over a bog’

80 05 23b

1955

The County Council, who took over liability for the Upware-Swaffham Road in 1949,
would be prepared to take over Upware Lock Bridge provided the Great Ouse River
Board brought it up to standard. The bridge rests on the walls of the lock which
will remain the liability of the Board. It was originally constructed of timber
joists and decking but during the war was strengthened by adding two steel joists.
Traffic has increased since the war and loads of up to ten tons were regularly
taken over the bridge

55 05 13a # c.44.75

1930

Cambridge has found dealing with motor traffic increasingly difficult in recent
years, Counsel told an inquiry. He emphasised the inconvenience to motorists when
no central parking places were available but now the council had made an agreement
with Jesus College for the use of New Square as a car park in exchange for Butt
Green and a piece of Midsummer Common. It would mean the surrender of 2 ½ [TWO AND
A HALF] acres of Common Land, but it would remain undeveloped & would allow the
college to make a new entrance. The scheme was approved.

30 05 19 & b # c.26.48

1905

A grocer and baker from Saxon Street, Wood Ditton, told the bankruptcy court that
he took over the business from his mother as a going concern in 1902. He afterwards
discovered that whilst the stock-in-trade, utensils and fixtures were worth only
£30 the liabilities amounted to nearly £200. He obviously had been insolvent from
the time he commenced business. Now heavy accounts were becoming due which he could
not meet, so he filed for bankruptcy

05 05 09

Wednesday 18th May

1980

There is little chance that Cambridge will have a new maternity hospital before
1988. Plans to resite it had been agreed in 1961 but constantly deferred because of
lack of funds. The Government says there is no doubt the present buildings in Mill
Road are dreadful and the facilities inadequate. Ways are being found to relieve
some of the pressure; pregnancies would no longer be terminated there – giving more
beds – and the closure of the Grange maternity unit at Ely means that more midwives
were available so more mother could give birth at home.

80 05 24a

1955

The County Council wrote to the Great Ouse River Board over the cost of metalling
Fen Bank Road, Isleham. The road is used by their lorries in connection with the
maintenance of the flood bank, this caused damage to the road and inconvenience to
the farmers and tenants of houses to whom it was the only means of access. The cost
of constructing a nine feet wide reinforced concrete road with passing places would
be about £7,000. But the Board says their workmen had filled up potholes and left
the road in a better condition.

55 05 13a # c.44.65

1930

The jurisdiction of the Ecclesiastical Courts over chancel repairs should be

abolished, a Committee suggests. It was appointed following a dispute at Hauxton
where a landowner refused to accept liability and was sent to Bedford Gaol. Notice
should be given in writing to those responsible for such repairs and proceedings
taken in the County Court should there be a dispute.

30 05 23

1905

Cambridge is likely to know a great deal more about vegetarianism following

meetings of the Vegetarian Society. Their President, the venerable Professor of
Latin, Rev. J.E.B. Mayor has reached his 80th birthday and is still active and
vigorous. Few could more appropriately be president of a society advocating an
unpopular dietetic regime. A cookery demonstration in the Guildhall did its best to
extol the merits of sausages made of breadcrumbs, rice and tomatoes over the more
traditional ‘Cambridge’ variety.

05 05 11b

Thursday 19th May

The controversial Kite redevelopment scheme has hit yet another stumbling block and
work is unlikely to start at all this year. Cambridge’s new Labour administration,
which objects to the £15 million shopping and parking scheme now claims there could
be very serious difficulties in the way of the development. But the developers,
Grosvenor Estates, say it intends to press ahead with the project agreed by the
previous Conservative council.

80 05 24b

1955

Work on raising the Middle Level Barrier Bank from Seven Holes Sluice Earith to
Welches Dam has been in progress for three years but cannot be completed at the
original price owing to increased wage rates. Serious erosion on the face of the
bank between Sutton Gault and the Gull occurred during the floods last November;
this section is liable to damage by erosion because of the low level of the
foreland which should be made up.

55 05 13d # c.29

1930

A mock funeral procession paraded through Cambridge as undergraduates bade farewell

to one of their number who had been sent down. It was headed by an old horse-drawn
landau in which the ‘corpse’ sat, his face disguised beneath a war-paint of
lipstick. He was joined by various persons who were to officiate at the ceremony;
beneath top hats, black cloches and wideawakes were suits of grey flannel, blazers
and plus-fours. All were garnished in crepe streamers on which hung rhubarb, beer
and wine bottles, remains of the ‘wake’. At the station the funereal party moved
along the platform hilariously singing a dirge and the ‘corpse’ was installed in a
third-class compartment where gifts of fruit and rhubarb were handed solemnly in.

30 05 26 # c.36.9 # c.39

1905

Mrs Bunsnell of Skillington, Lincs., is looked upon as a village prize. As I

entered her little thatched home I found her reading without spectacles. After
giving me a real old-fashioned welcome she said: “If I’m spared I shall be 101
tomorrow but I’m as nimble as ever. I remember the Battle of Waterloo; two of my
uncles fell in it and out village clergyman was taken prisoner by the French. I’ve
always worked hard and lived chiefly on potatoes and black, or barley, bread. In
recent years I’ve had back pains but now I take Dean’s Kidney Pills and they’ve
quite cured me. I can recommend them truly. They can be bought in boxes from all
Chemists and Stores.

05 05 11b

Friday 20th May

1980

Time has been called on Jack and Ivy Wallwork who are retiring after 29 years at
the Jolly Brewers pub in Haslingfield. The pub was dead when they first arrived and
only took £15 in the first week. But over the years they have given it a welcoming
homely appearance which has proved popular with customers. Jack hopes to continue
providing the pubs shellfish speciality and Ivy will continue her darts – she plays
in the ladies team and captains the men’s

80 05 27

1955

British Railway’s new weedkiller train can cover up to 100 miles of track a day and
recently made the Ely-March run handing out lethal doses of weed-killing
concentrate at up to 20 mph. It is operated by two Cambridge men, Bob Lee and Jack
Aldhouse. Working away from home has its disadvantages but their living
accommodation is as luxurious as any caravan with interior-sprung mattresses,
dining room, galley and chemical lavatory. Jack attends to the living accommodation
and Arthur keeps an eye on the machinery.
55 05 13 b & c # c.26.2

1930

The Isle of Ely Member of Parliament, James de Rothschild is the joy of the
cartoonist and the favourite exhibit in the House of Commons lobbies. Nothing
causes such effect as his appearance with his one-wing collars, one eye-glass and
super-glossy hat. Yet he is very shy, a very nice chap and very fond of animals.

30 05 24 # c.33

1905

Residents in Soham have to ‘fetch a pail of water’ from the public pump when they
need it. But Mrs Brown of Bushel Lane complained: “It was a great trial to me. My
back was so weak that carrying the pails would send pains through it of an
excruciating character. It was when my first girl was born that I became so very
ill. She was a very weakly baby and fretted continually. I became so knocked-up
that I had to have someone in to do my housework. One night my husband returned to
find me in a pitiable plight. Then I decided to take Dr William’s Pink Pills and I
have not been ill since”.

05 05 13

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 23rd May

1980

Once over the railway bridge Cambridge’s Mill Road takes on the atmosphere of a
village. The roads and pavements widen and in spite of the busy traffic, the pace
of life seems to slacken. It is a street where you can enjoy sauntering along,
enjoying the many and varied shops. There is K.S. Neale which specialises in door
handles and locks, David Neech’s where you can buy an electric organ and Surefit
the stretch cover specialists. Cornwell’s is a fascinating shop to browse through
looking for bargains, piled from floor to ceiling with new and second-hand
furniture

80 05 28 & a`

1955

The annual punting race between the Oxford University Charon Club and Cambridge
Damper Club is a relay with the lady member of the team acting as baton and hastily
jumping from punt to punt at the end of each ‘leg’. For the eight gentlemen on each
side it was a perspiring afternoon; both wind, water and pole were playful and both
of the ‘batons’ nearly suffered a ducking. Gradually it developed into a cross
between a water-polo match and a life-saving exhibition.

55 05 09a # c.38

1930

Cambridge University Cinematograph Society’s film ‘Varsity’ depicts University life

through the eyes of undergraduates themselves. The director is Stuart Legg of St
John’s College and Mr J.Graaff is responsible for the production and photography.
About 50 students take part including Mr Hunter, the son of a well-known Hollywood
director and some well-known townsmen. It includes scenes at a Rugby match,
Cambridge station and a roulette party at a public house. The film is not a talkie
but includes gramophone recorded noises.

30 05 27 # c.76.9

1905

A Cambridge lady has patented a coffin to minimise the possibility of premature

burial. It contains an electric bell, the button of which is fixed near the hand of
the occupant with the bell on the top of the grave. There is also a glass plate in
the lid together with a hammer to allow the person to break out, though it is
hardly conceivable that anyone would have sufficient strength to scramble to the
surface

05 05 16a. # c.21.2

Tuesday 24th May

1980

Great Gransden may be left without petrol supplies for Esso is ending its supply
contract with the only garage in the village, run by William Merrill, who is trying
to organise an alternative supplier. They had been supplying the garage for more
than 30 years but have decided it is no longer economic. At the moment petrol is
£1.36 for four star but some of the smaller suppliers might charge 5p more. “I
don’t want to be charging that sort of price”, Mr Merrill said.

80 05 29

1955

The Minister has overruled the County Council and allowed a small extension to the
gravel pit at Milton. Part of the site was allocated as a recreation ground and it
was undesirable to permit gravel working near existing and proposed residential
development. The gravel was of good quality, greatly in demand for building
purposes

55 05 17a

1930

The bookshops of Cambridge are a special feature of the town; no visitor can
possibly miss David’s stall on the Market Place where the book-lover may pick up a
bargain. He came to Cambridge in 1896 and started his career at this stall; in 1906
he took a shop in St Edward’s Passage, which is full of interesting old books and
though often locked can be viewed at leisure in the window. In such esteem is he
held that a luncheon was held in the Hall of Trinity College and a lithograph
cartoon by Mr William Nicholson presented to him.

30 05 28a & b # c.25

1905

An attempt has been made to remedy the serious defect of the new cattle drinking
places on Midsummer Common. A concrete wall has been built to prevent the sewage
flowing into the water. Unfortunately it also stops the majority of the cattle from
drinking at all and so the stockmen have to drive them some distance to another
site which rapidly gets into an indescribably filthy condition. The cattle are in
fact consuming their own sewage

05 05 16b # c.32.3

Wednesday 25th May

1980

Mothers in the Ely area cannot have their babies at home despite assurances this
would compensate for the closure of the Grange maternity unit. Parliament was told
that most mothers would now be expected to use the RAF Hospital freeing midwives
for home deliveries. But there are none capable of providing 24-hour cover and the
RAF hospital is not staffed to provide a flying squad. The nearest cover is at Mill
Road, Cambridge where there is one midwife working a 40-hour week and the other who
backs her up has a 10-mile radius to cover.

80 05 30a

1955

A judge was asked to decide who was liable for the cost of repairs to the chancel
of Oakington church. It was damaged in the winter of 1948 and the repairs cost £80.
Messrs Chivers had paid but claimed the Air Ministry should contribute £14 towards
the cost. But they said it was the responsibility of Queens’ College who had sold
them the land in October 1940. It was a very small matter but of great importance.

55 05 18 # c.82.01

1930

For generations a wooden, straw-thatched barn has stood opposite the church at
Melbourn, its end used as the village bill-posting station. Two years ago it was
purchased by Howard Bros, bakers, who decided to convert it into a shop. It would
have been a very simple matter to demolish the barn and erect an up-to-date brick
and slate shop but happily the brothers have a wide knowledge of the village’s
history and would never consent to the spoiling of this old-world corner. All are
to be congratulated on their efforts and many motorists stop to congratulate them
on preserving the amenities of the countryside.

30 05 31a & b & c

1905

Ely now has a thoroughly up-to-date, well equipped girls’ secondary school as
Bedford House has opened to scholars. It includes a large room used for recreation
during wet weather, the old kitchen is now fitted up for the teaching of cookery
and the stables converted into a preparatory school. No stranger going over the
building would have imagined the use to which it was once put

05 05 16c # c.36.6

Thursday 26th May

1980
‘Roundabout East Anglia’, the BBC’s early-morning programme was launched in 1974 as
the local newspaper of the air. But now it has been axed leaving Cambridge without
any local radio service. The final programme included a nostalgia spot recalling
the days when Chris Trace and Tony Scase worked there. Hundreds of listeners have
written letters of condolence saying it was comforting to wake up with a familiar
voice, some breezy story from the fens and a batch of other people’s views on the
region’s social and economic climates. Now the Corporation has saved another
fraction of a penny on the licence fee

80 05 30b # c.27.81

1955

The Minister has refused appeals for dwellings on land fronting Newmarket Road,
Stow-cum-Quy. The owner said he had bought the site in 1938 intending to erect a
bungalow and sell the rest for building. Plans had been postponed because of the
war and subsequent shortage and high cost of building materials. It is a rural area
of agricultural land but not cultivated for 30 years. But the County said it would
constitute ribbon development and would be dangerous particularly on Newmarket race
days when the traffic was heavy.

55 05 19

1930

Scenes of academic splendour marked the ceremony of the installation of Mr Stanley

Baldwin as Chancellor of the University of Cambridge at the Senate House. The
historic building was filled to capacity with a brilliant array of distinguished
Cambridge figures. Crowds waited in the precincts and Mr Baldwin’s arrival was the
signal for a prolonged outburst of cheering.

30 06 05a # c.36.9

1905

Newmarket Rural District Council discussed the tolls payable at the toll-gate on
the Ness Road between Burwell and Fordham. They were a great inconvenience to
travellers & the Crown Receivers would accept £600 for the purchase of the tolls,
making the road free. Mr Ambrose has promised £100 and if the County Council would
contribute £250 they should find the remainder.

05 05 16d # c.44.65

Friday 27th May

1980

The Carioca building on Newmarket Road, Cambridge has had a chequered history, from
non-conformist chapel to furniture store and now night-club. When it first opened
in March 1978 it did a roaring trade into the early hours but has been plainly
feeling the impact of the opening of Ronelles’ in Lion Yard. It offers a
restaurant, disco and dance floor together with a games room with bar billiards and
juke box for a membership charge of 10p a week. Drinks are cheaper than pub prices
but the choice of draught beers – Tolly’s Cobbold and Younger Tartan – is
disappointing.

80 05 31 # c.69

1955
Thaxted gas works are to be closed down due to the high cost of gas manufacture and
small output. The works manufacture three million cubic feet a year. However the
familiar gasholder is in good condition and will remain in operation. It will be
supplied from Bishop’s Stortford through a new main to be laid from Dunmow whose
own gas works closed a year ago.

55 05 20 # c.24.4

1930

The University told Cambridge planners that if they would change the route of the
proposed ring road to avoid crossing the University Farm on the Huntingdon Road
then they would agree that the land would never be used for any business,
commercial development or housing scheme but remain a private open space. After
careful consideration the planners were unable to agree

30 06 07 f&g # c.49.62

1905

The King was involved in an exciting scene at the conclusion of racing at

Newmarket. Within a few minutes of the finish of the last race a steady stream of
traffic poured from the Heath townwards, and in the dozens of vehicles of all sorts
and description was the royal equipage. The vagaries of a motor car caused a sudden
halt and although the driver of the King’s carriage pulled up promptly the horse
pulling one behind struck the King a sharp blow in the back with its head. His
Majesty, though naturally startled and shaken was not at all injured.

05 05 20a # c.02

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 30th May

1980

Cambridge firemen saved the recently-renovated 16th-century Pickerel Inn in

Magdalene Street from destruction after a blaze started in an upstairs back bedroom
overlooking the courtyard. The pub was cleared and surrounding streets closed to
traffic as smoke rushed through the upper rooms and poured out of the windows. But
the main bar was unaffected and it was ready for customers by opening time

80 06 04a # c.27.4

1955

Fulbourn Hospital is faced with the serious threat of a shortage of trained and
experienced mental nurses, although French girls have been employed as assistants.
A new programme of occupation has been developed; the wards are now empty by day
with many men employed on the farm, in the gardens and in the works department
doing meaningful work. A ‘Darby and Joan’ club formed for unemployable old folk has
proved a great success.

55 05 23a # c.21.5

1930
A terrible shooting affair occurred at King’s College this afternoon. An
undergraduate shot a Cambridge Detective-Sergeant twice with an automatic, then
shot his tutor through the heart and himself in the head. The tutor died instantly,
the undergraduate is not expected to live but the policeman is likely to make a
normal recovery. The cause of the trouble is at present a mystery

30 06 03a # c.34.6

1905

It is doubtful if any town the size of Cambridge has as many motors and motor-
cycles running about the streets as are to be seen in term time. All day long the
‘pouf-pouf’ of panting engines is to be heard in our streets and we are becoming
quite accustomed to having an undergraduate motorist fly by within a foot on one’s
elbows. Some are expert drivers, some are not, but there is no class determined to
get more pace out of his machine. Numerous small accidents occur; within a week a
couple of motor-cyclists smashed into a couple of cows.

05 05 20b # c.26.48

Tuesday 31st May

1980

An estate of 13 flatlets for retired licensees was officially opened behind the
Milton Arms Hotel, Cambridge. It has been named John Clarke Court after a former
director of Greene King Brewery which gave the land. The homes were built by the
publicans’ charity, the Licensed Victuallers National Home. Most of the flats are
already occupied by people from the local area.

80 06 04b

1955

Linton’s new fire station has all ‘mod cons’ to delight a fire fighter with a huge
shining red fire engine replacing the old ex-Army lorry and trailer they used until
a few days ago. Although the firemen work in places scattered throughout the
village they can be on their way to a fire three minutes after receiving a distress
call. When the County Council took over the old National Fire Service in 1948 it
was in a moribund condition but a lot of money has been spent in modernisation and
the new station is much better than the previous old makeshift one

55 05 23b

1930

The third of the men in the King’s College shooting sensation, Det-Sergt Willis,
has died from the effects of his wounds. The undergraduate assailant died yesterday
from a bullet wound in the head whilst the tutor was killed instantly from a bullet
through his heart. The undergraduate was heavily in debt and went away from
Cambridge nine days ago on a motor-cycle obtained on credit. He was being
interviewed by the policeman when the tragedy occurred

30 06 04 # c.34.6

1905

The memorial to the men of Cambridge who fell in the South African War has been
completed. It takes the form of a brass tablet designed by Mr W.W. Fawcett affixed
to the wall of Great St Mary’s church. It is surrounded by stone moulding
surmounted by the badge of the Suffolk Regiment but commemorates all local men who
died in the war.

05 05 23 # c.45

Wednesday 1st June

1980

Girton College’s imaginative plan to build a two-mile aerial roadway into Cambridge
has been shelved. A driverless 100-seater train would have run 20 feet above ground
taking students from the college to Grange Road. But they have had difficulty
crossing land owned by other colleges and raising the money and there has been an
improvement in traffic conditions since the opening of the Western by-pass

80 06 06a

1955

Cambridge was ‘invaded’ by nearly 600 London Auxiliary Fire Service men and women.
They travelled in 80 green emergency fire-fighting vehicles for a large-scale
exercise. The new radio control system worked perfectly and only one small group of
vehicles managed to get lost. Some vehicles went to the old ‘Shorts’ factory at
Madingley Road, the others to Wisbey’s gravel pit Hauxton for pumping exercises

55 05 24

1930

A London lady has thrown fresh light on the movement of the undergraduates involved
in the double shooting at King’s College. They had knocked on her door at three in
the morning; their clothes were torn and dishevelled and they said they were down
and out, having been walking about on the Thames Embankment. They told her they
were in trouble at Cambridge, but only through disposing of some property that did
not belong to them. Both had pistols and said they would end things then rather
than face fresh trouble, but she had dissuaded them.

30 06 04 # c.34.6

1905

The new St Ives Wesleyan Chapel replaces one which has served for nearly 90 years.
New school premises were opened last September and have been used during the
building of the new church. It occupies a larger area and is of a beautiful and
commodious design. Mr F. Sidney Webber of London was the architect and F. Giddings
of St Ives the builder. The door was unlocked by Mrs Gawthrop using a silver key.

05 05 24 # c.82.06

Thursday 2nd June

1980

Villagers at Six Mile Bottom have just created a village green complete with
cricket ground and pavilion at a time when other clubs are disbanding. Alec Eist,
licensee of the Green Man, has been the prime mover behind the project but says
much of the credit must go to Lady Delamere who provided the land, a former
football pitch. Locals have worked hard to build the pavilion and now they need to
collect money for seats for spectators.

80 06 06b # c.38 : cricket

1955

Cambridge councillors are considering two sites for a new indoor swimming pool. One
is Donkey common; years ago this land was subject to common rights but they have
not been exercised for 50 years and can be regarded as lapsed. The other is the
Gothic Street clearance area; it was acquired with a view to rebuilding but could
be extended by purchasing other property to provide space for building and
increased parking facilities.

55 05 25 # c.38 : swimming

1930

The Cambridge Chief Constable paid tribute to Det-Sergt Francis Willis who was shot
by a Cambridge undergraduate. He was born in Haverhill and joined the Cambridge
force in 1920 serving as a unformed and a cycle patrol constable until appointed a
detective. He had commendations for his plucky action in stopping runaway horses
and was the officer concerned in the recent ‘Mr H’ blackmail case. He had the
making of a really great policeman and his death was a great shock.

30 06 04 # c.34.7

1905

Chesterton residents will be glad to see the inauguration of a new motor ‘bus
service by the ‘Light Blue’ company. Special arrangements have been made for the
convenience of residents intending to travel to London by the early morning train.
The ‘bus will leave Old Chesterton Green at 8.25 and run through to the station in
time for the 8.53 train. It will also run as frequently as possible between one and
two-thirty for the convenience of residents employed in Cambridge who go to the
suburbs for their midday meal

05 05 26 # c.26.46

Friday 3rd June

1980

The opening of the M11 motorway & A45 Northern by-pass and the much-improved A604
main road to Huntingdon now brings Bar Hill within minutes driving time of the
city. It has become an attractive place to live with relatively low house prices,
good community facilities and thriving industries. But it is the shopping
facilities, dominated by the Tesco supermarket and the easy parking which are
making it the focus of attention for Cambridge housewives. There are also
hairdressers, a bank, a carpet stores, wool shop, musical instruments and a fish-
and-chip shop.

80 06 09b

1955
Francis Sidney Campkin was born 80 years ago in Rose Crescent, above the chemist’s
which became his whole life’s work and hobby. He first helped in the shop when a
boy of nine and later qualified as a pharmaceutical chemist. He also took the first
examination held by the Spectacle Makers’ Company. His keen interest in the optics
of photography led to the development of the camera side of the business. He will
be greatly missed by his staff who knew him as ‘a very fine and kind gentleman’

55 05 26

1930

Further revelations of the escapades of the undergraduate involved in the King’s

College shooting have caused University authorities to make searching inquiries
into the habits of undergraduates. The lad had surrounded himself with an
atmosphere of false romance; he paid frequent visits to the Bell Hotel at
Mildenhall. The landlord’s daughter described him as ‘a very nice boy, but terribly
eccentric’. He always came in second-hand cars, but never in the same car twice,
and spent time playing the gramophone. He always left in time to get back to
college before the gates closed

30 06 06b # c.34.6

1905

Aldreth Causeway was clearly shown on ancient maps as a highway; if so it was a

highway for every purpose and for all time. Whether it was repairable by the Bishop
of Ely or anybody else the fact remained that for 200 years no definite persons had
been made responsible for the repair of the highway and so it was repairable by the
highway authority – the Rural District Council.

05 06 01 # c.44.65

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 6th June

1980

Cambridge May Balls are four nights of student-organised revelry which will delight
some and disturb the sleep of others. This year the cost of a double ticket has
peaked at £52.50 and some feel they will be pricing themselves out of existence.
But the same was being said ten years ago when Jesus and Trinity were charging
eleven guineas. Some tickets do go to outsiders, with adverts often placed in
London papers, but the majority of ball-goers are still students.

80 06 09a # c.36.9

1955

Judgement has been given on who is liable for repairs to the chancel of Oakington
church which was damaged in the winter of 1948. Messrs Chivers have paid but
claimed that the Air Ministry should also contribute. But they said it was the
responsibility of Queens’ College. However the judge said the college had sold the
land in 1940 and had no further liability for repair. The Ministry should paid £14
towards the costs.

55 05 28
1930

Poignant scenes of grief were witnessed at the funeral of Det-Sergt Francis Willis
of Cambridge police which took place at Haverhill. His murder has cast a gloom over
the old-world town; it is a community of sorrow. Blinds of private houses and
business premises were drawn long before the arrival of the cortege headed by
police colleagues; as it passed heads were bared and women could not restrain their
tears. Traffic ceased, the engines of motor cars were stopped. The whole atmosphere
was reminiscent of the silence of Armistice Day.

30 06 07b # c.34.6

1905

The Macedonian gypsies ago have reappeared at Ely and are causing a great deal of
trouble. A party encamped at the Half Way House on the Cambridge Road; Ely police
escorted them through Stuntney and into Cambridgeshire. But next morning Cambs.
Constabulary moved them back into the Isle of Ely. Only the future can show for how
long the game of battledore and shuttlecock with the Cambs and the Isle of Ely
police as battledores and the gypsies as shuttlecock will continue.

05 06 02 # GYPSIES

Tuesday 7th June

1980

Singing star Diane Solomon’s 400-year-old thatched cottage at Wickhambrook was

destroyed by fire. She and her husband were having dinner when it broke out; he was
overcome by smoke and had to be given oxygen by firemen. The fire is believed to
have been started when a spark from the chimney landed on the roof. Fanned by a
sharp breeze flames soared 30 ft into the air and could be seen over much of the
village. Neighbours gave the alarm and tried to retrieve possessions

80 06 10a

1955

The first service was held on the site of the new church at Arbury Road, Cambridge.
As a procession from parish church of St Luke’s Chesterton, made its way to the
site a congregation from the estate, St Augustine’s and St George’s was assembling.
At the time of the building of St Luke’s there were many who expected it to be a
failure; the same was being said today but they hoped to have a church erected on
the site fairly soon.

55 06 02

1930

A disastrous fire broke out at West Wratting in which four old cottages, recently
converted into one, were completely destroyed. One was the old post office and they
formed a pleasant group of picturesque thatched buildings. A spark from a passing
traction engine is believed to have ignited the roof. Mrs Barker, a bedridden lady
of over 90 years lay helpless in one cottage and was removed to safer quarters by
volunteers.

30 06 09 # c.34.75
1905

The revival of the use of the crinoline has long been heralded with ladies
misguided enough to appear arrayed in the hideous appliance. With a feeling of
dismay I report that it has now made an appearance in Cambridge. It cannot be said
it was of the abnormal type that helped make women ridiculous in the sixties but it
resembled them entirely in form. The wearer was a lady well known locally for the
prominent part she takes in local political affairs.

05 06 03 # WOMEN

Wednesday 8th June

1980

Chanting demonstrators broke through a security cordon at Queens’ College Cambridge

to protest at a stag night being held by male undergraduates. They ‘invaded’ from
punts and burst through padlocked college gates before marching around outside the
dining hall where 150 people were watching two strippers. The entertainment which
included a blue comedian and a dirty limerick competition was organised to mark the
college’s last days as an all-male preserve

80 06 10b # c.34.6 # WOMEN

1955

The latest car being offered for sale by Brian Lister Light Engineering of
Cambridge is a Lister-Bristol which costs £2,150. They are sold as chassis or
complete vehicles and fitted with disc brakes. Already more than a dozen are
running in the hands of private owners. Meanwhile a racing car has been rebuilt at
Parkside from an original ‘Iota’ chassis by Tony Crosse and Jim Denholm. It is
intended for sprints and speed trials and has a maximum speed of 105 mph.

55 06 03a 55 06 03b # c.26.48

1930

Cambridge is a lurid place – according to the ‘Daily Herald’. Days are spent in
drunken dissipation, commencing with a champagne breakfast at 11.30 a.m. or later.
At night bands of students invade the peaceful rusticity of the county in motor
cars and on cycles causing general annoyance. Villagers have set up their own
‘defence committee’ – a determined band of sturdy young men who will be quick to
stop misbehaviour. But a resident tells me “I have heard of the Flower Show
Committee but a Defence Committee is news to me”

30 06 10a # c.36.9

1905

Some 500 working men have been spending a very pleasant month under canvas just
outside Colchester. They have been comfortably housed in spacious bell tents, fed
on the best of food and entertained between meals by military exercises, shooting
competitions and the like. Nor has the holiday been an expensive one. On the
contrary each man has received a shilling a day pocket money. In other words the
4th Battalion (Cambs) Suffolk Regiment have been enjoying their annual training.

05 06 09 # c.45
Thursday 9th June

1980

The Isle of Ely Member of Parliament, Clement Freud, asked Prime Minister Margaret
Thatcher whether she had plans to visit Grunty Fen where people were worried about
the level of wage settlements. But she replied that the 97 residents were a very
happy agricultural community with a low rate of unemployment and content under a
Conservative Government. Dorothy Barker of Station Road, Grunty Fen, said: “It is
nice of her to think of us”

80 06 11

1955

A ‘hide’ at the Old House, Histon is believed to be the nearest ‘priest hole’ to
Cambridge. It was covered over and forgotten for centuries until rediscovered when
electric light was installed. A hat the size of a bicycle wheel and with a high
crown was discovered but fell to pieces on being touched. The hide was entered from
what was probably a chapel under the eaves or from the floor below; it was also
possible to get out into the garden where a horse-ring is still to be seen.

55 06 07

1930

Isleham headmaster, H.P. Hodges said the school had a room for special subjects
where woodwork, cookery and washing were taught, and during the winter months the
dinner hour was shortened and two-course dinners supplied at 2d per head. 18,000
meals were served in five years and a profit of five shillings had been made. It
cost the County Council nothing. The teacher dined with the children and the
cooking was done by the cookery mistress with the help of two older girls.

30 06 11a & b

1905

An extraordinary incident occurred at the May Races. The stroke of the Downing boat
was experimenting at the Laboratory in the morning when he was the victim of an
unfortunate accident which greatly affected his eyes. To requisition another stroke
would be impossible so with indomitable pluck he decided to row. This he actually
did, but was blindfolded. Sadly his energies were of no avail and his boat was
bumped by Trinity Hall.

05 06 10 # c.38 : rowing

Friday 10th June

1980

Britain’s top maternity hospital is the one in Mill Road, Cambridge – and that’s
official. It handles the most difficult births and a fifth of all babies in the
region are born there. Government figures show that it copes with 4,000 births
annually, many referred from other hospitals for specialist care, but its only
operating theatre is a wooden shed built for the Dunkirk wounded during the last
War.

80 06 13 # c.21.4

1955

The ‘Travellers Rest’ at Baythorne End, Haverhill is to close; it is extremely

close to the Swan & now not needed. The landlord, Frederick Pizzie is retiring and
the brewery does not feel they can get anyone else to take it on. It was opened by
a relative of Mrs Pizzie’s about 100 years ago to serve refreshments to travellers
and carriers on their way to Bury market and her mother and grandmother were
tenants. The last pint of beer was served on Monday night when several old
customers went along to wish them a happy retirement.

55 06 09 # c.27.4

1930

The new motor fire engine at St Ives was called out for the first time to a blaze
in some outbuildings at Colne. But neighbours rallied round and by the time the
brigade arrived the fire was under control. The damage included the burning of two
young calves.

30 06 10b # c.34.75

1905

The memorial to the Cambridge men who died during the South African War was
unveiled at Great St Mary’s Church. It is not inside the church but looks out upon
the Market Place, seeming to say that in the midst of life we were in death. A
guard of honour consisting of a hundred men of the Cambridge Town Volunteers
together with a detachment of the Suffolk Militia, a dismounted body of Hussars,
Cambridge University Rifle Volunteers and the band of the Scots Grays joined old
soldiers who had seen service in South Africa to witness the proceedings

05 06 13c # c.45
Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 13th June

1980

The Camelot club at Great Stukeley offers a very satisfactory venue for locals but
lacks the necessary pulling power to draw in the crowds from elsewhere. The club
bar has a wide range of lagers and, unusually, Schlitz beer, presumably to cater
for American servicemen in the area. There seemed to be a disproportionate number
of women when we visited. American servicemen again?

80 06 14

1955

Quy can now boast one of the finest village recreation grounds in the county. After
months of hard work by the football and cricket clubs the ground complete with its
new one-and-a-half acre extension is now in daily use. This will allow games of
cricket and football to be played at the same time. One-third of the cost was paid
by the National Playing Fields Association who handed a cheque of £150 to the
chairman of the parish council.

55 06 10

1930

The crowd was large for the opening day of the ‘Mays’ bumping races but it was
cautious. Diaphanous frocks gave way to less flamboyant costume and what colour
there was came from the blazers of the undergraduates. On the river the most
conspicuous figures was a balloon vendor selling his wares by boat. An inflated
rubber swan and frog trailed behind his craft, while from the ‘mast’ hung all kinds
of air-filled cusiosities

30 06 12a # c.38 : rowing

1905

The sinister hand of Death has cast its shadow over Cambridge in its most joyous
mood. In the very midst of the May Week holiday three people were drowned through
the capsizing of the ferryboat known as the Red Grind at Fen Ditton. Two journeys
had been made after the racing, the ferry crowded each time and when the boat was
ready for the third about 20 people commenced the fateful voyage. Two University
men jumped on at the last moment, the ferry gave a lurch and turned turtle pitching
the screaming occupants into six feet of water

05 06 12 # c.38 : rowing # c.44.7

Tuesday 14th June

1980

Little Thetford is to have its own riverside nightclub. Work is underway to convert
the Fish and Duck pub and restaurant into a licensed discotheque and top music
personalities have been booked for the opening weekend. They include Radio 1 disco
jockey Dave Lee Travis and disco dancers Pan’s People. The pub was closed nearly
two years ago after the owner was hurt in a road accident, now it will become one
of the top night spots in East Anglia. A brand new marine with over 200 moorings
has yet to be opened.

80 06 16

1955

May Balls are with us again. At Trinity Nat Temple and his band played for a large
number of dancers, at St John’s guests danced to the music of Hedley Ward and his
orchestra while at Clare Tommy Kinsman provided music for everyone – one room being
set aside for jiving! Downing had a marquee setting where two hundred couples
danced to the music of Chappie D’Amato, who also played at Christ’s.

55 06 15 # c.69

1930

The University is opposed to the proposed ring road round Cambridge crossing the
University Farm on Huntingdon Road. It was of national importance, a road cutting
up the farm would do a great amount of damage to the experiments which had been in
progress for many years. But everybody could use the same argument and say ‘You are
not going to come across my cabbage patch’. Somebody had to give way and the
University should be big enough to do so. Anyway the road would not be wanted for
50 years.

30 06 12a-d # c.49.62

1905

Words cannot describe the scene at Fen Ditton when the ferry sank. People in the
grounds of the Plough rushed to the bank, one or two men plunged into the water,
others seized chairs and hurled them towards the struggling mass in the river.
Pleasure boats hurried and scurried in answer to frantic appeals for help and the
Ditton men shoved off in their black fishing boats. Off the twenty or so who went
down with the ferry all but three were saved.

05 06 12a-c

Wednesday 15th June

1980

John Major, MP, says he regrets the Government’s decision to base Cruise missiles
at Molesworth, a disused RAF base used by the USAF. It has enough spare land to
accommodate the buildings to store the missiles and is close to RAF Alconbury which
can house the extra US servicemen. Cruise missiles are mobile weapons designed to
be driven away from their bases in time of conflict. The closeness of the improved
A604 and A1 was another decisive factor.

80 06 18a # c.45.8

1955

The level of employment in manufacturing industries continues to rise while the

number of unemployed men and women become steadily smaller, Cambridge Employment
Committee reported. But there is an urgent national need for recruitment to the
coal-mining industry with men from Saffron Walden and St Ives going for training.
Young men registered for National Service should also consider it as enlistment
notices would not be sent so long as he remained employed underground.

55 06 18a # c.32.1

1930

An attempt was made by private bus owners to run buses to the May Races from the
Ortona Company’s stop at Holy Trinity Church. Six coaches blocked the bus-stop;
they refused to move when ordered by police and a number of the drivers were
arrested. But when the police attempted to move the coaches they found the magneto
brushes had been removed. The traffic disorganisation which followed lasted for
over an hour

30 06 12b-d # c.26.48

1905

Miss Violet Handscombe was engaged to Mr Thomas Day and together they enjoyed a
visit to the May races. From the Plough pleasure gardens they stepped aboard the
ill-fated Red Grind ferry. When it sank Mr Day became separated from his intended
bride and managed to reach the bank unassisted. Eagerly he looked for his betrothed
but she had become entangled with the rail when the ferry capsized; he plunged into
the river again and brought her to dry land but she had been so long under water
that life was extinct.

05 06 12

Thursday 16th June

1980

Molesworth villagers have reacted to the news that Cruise missiles may be stationed
at the RAF base. Seven years ago they won a battle to prevent the building of a
nuclear power station there and feel they have been picked on because they are a
rural area with a scattered population. The landlady of the Cross Keys said it
could bring a lot of much-needed business but was annoying for private individuals
who had moved there for peace and quiet.

80 06 18c

1955

Cambridge City Libraries are celebrating their centenary with an exhibition in the
Guildhall which will look at the past, consider the present and glimpse into the
future. This may include a branch library at Newmarket Road, a Mobile Library
service, a new Central Library – all projects which from time to time receive
consideration

55 06 18b

1930

By the courtesy of A.G. Marshall of the Newmarket Road Aerodrome, who placed a
plane at the disposal of the C.D.N., our representative was able to secure a bird’s
eye view of the bumping races. “I could hear nothing of the general buzz which must
be going on by the river, only the roar of the engine and the voice of my companion
through the speaking tube. He tells me he is regulating his height so that we are
well in gliding distance of a landing place all the time. I am very comforted – I
should hate to drop on Jesus or a crew just making a bump”, he writes.

30 06 16 & 16a # c.38 : rowing # c.26.1

1905

Miss Minnie Murkin is the central figure of the Fen Ditton ferry sinking. Today she
was to have been a happy bride but now her body will be borne to the tomb. At her
home in Selwyn Terrace the last few days have witnessed all the preliminary events
that precede the wedding; presents have been arriving and her finance came from
Swansea. He was on the bank, witnessed the upsetting of the boat and endured the
agony of seeing his prospective bride dragged beneath the surface by the sinking
craft.

05 06 12a-c

Friday 17th June

1980

Old Addenbrooke's Hospital will close for good in 1983 and the site put up for
sale. But consultants who have been fighting to retain beds as a kind of overflow
hospital, a mother-and-babies hospital, a centre for ear, nose and throat cases and
eye and plastic surgery say it would be a mistake to assume this matter is closed.

80 06 20a

1955

The Bishop of Ely dedicated the building which is to be known as St James’ Church
in Wulfstan Way. He said that later they would need a new church and the present
building would become the church hall. It was part of the challenge of new housing
estates; in St Paul’s parish they were trying to build another church and there was
magnificent evangelistic work in the Coldham’s Lane area which rendered another one
necessary.

55 06 20 & 20a # c.83.01

1930

All records were broken at Trinity ball when 1,700 guests attended the most
brilliant of the May Week functions. Many townspeople waited to see the guests
arrive and crowds flocked to Garret Hostel Bridge to view the grounds in all their
evening glory. Up to mid-day next morning occasional stragglers, heavy-eyed but
cheerful could be seen walking driving about the town. One such pair were mutually
photographed beside their car in Silver Street. Sports coats over white waistcoats
were common and in one a dishevelled figure in a flannel dressing gown lolled at
the wheel, like a character in a Edgar Wallace film.

30 06 17a # c.36.9

1905

The inquests on the three victims of the ferry sinking was opened in Fen Ditton
schoolroom. The jury proceeded to the melancholy task of viewing the bodies. Those
of Mrs Annie Thompson and Miss Minnie Murkin were laid side by side in a darkened
room at the Plough, attired in white as for burial, and awaiting outside were the
coffins. They then proceeded to a house in which Miss Handscombe was already laid
in her coffin. Next they viewed the boat which had been raised from the river.

05 06 13a

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 20th June

1980

A group called ‘Survival Shelters’ from Willingham have designed their own nuclear
shelter. It comes in kit form and is designed to give protection for six people
from the effects of a 20 mega-ton bomb. The price of the plans and booklet is £9.50
but it would cost up to £15,000 to install. So far 300 have been sold but Cambridge
City Council has not yet decided whether planning permission would be required.

80 06 20b # c.45

1955
Teddy Boys who come before the Cambridge courts will be given no quarter, a
magistrate has warned. “We do not intend to have any trouble from this little
group; if they challenge authority, we shall put our foot on them”, he said. A 15-
year old engine cleaner who admitted receiving £10, knowing it to be stolen was
told: “We are going to put you on probation for two years. Keep away from the Teddy
boys”

55 06 21a # c.34.6

1930

Impington Hall has been presented to the County Council by Messrs Chivers & Sons to
be used as a village college. It is in a good state of preservation and repair with
central heating and electricity installed and is quite the finest site one could
secure. It will provide a warden’s house, caretaker’s cottage, library and reading
room together with two adult education rooms and staff room. A new block will be
erected adjacent to it

30 06 18 # c.36.6

1905

Almost before Cambridge has had time to recover from the shock of the Fen Ditton
ferry tragedy another sad fatality has occurred. A conductor employed by the
Cambridge Motor Omnibus Company was on the front of the vehicle talking to the
driver when another bus passed. He leant out to shout something to it, hanging on
to the handrail when his head struck a lamppost. He was thrown underneath the ‘bus
and one of the hind wheels crashed over his head, which was battered out of
recognition.

05 06 15a # c.26.46

Tuesday 21st June

1980

The war plan for Cambridgeshire which will detail the role of the county council is
not yet finished. A regional commissioner would be introduced in the run-up to any
attack and county controllers would go to their headquarters in the basements of
the Shire hall. This is a small, rather cluttered room with little more than maps,
telephones and teleprinters and no special protection other than the thickness of
the walls.

80 06 20c # c.45

1955

Esso Petroleum’s new distribution depot in Cromwell Road, Cambridge is a marked

transformation of an area formerly used for allotments. The Mayor ascended to the
cat-walks overlooking the eighteen large cylindrical storage tanks which have a
total capacity of 216,000 gallons brought from the Purfleet terminals. The neat
lay-out and appearance of the depot were admired as were the office block and
vehicle maintenance garages.

55 06 21b # c.27

1930

Since 1921 the Ortona Bus Company has paid Cambridge Corporation £250 annually;
this was for permission to fix bus stop signs on lamppost but in practice
constituted a monopoly. Much had been made of the problems of running buses owing
to the narrowness of the streets but Ortona had increased its services from nine to
33 for which the Corporation received the wonderful sum of 14s. a day. A maximum
number of licences should be fixed and granted between the other companies who
could run buses at a cheaper rate and reduce fares.

30 06 19b # c.26.46

1905

The whole of the Duchess of Westminster’s missing jewellery has been discovered in
Cambridge including a very valuable pearl necklace and twenty diamond brooches.
Police arrested a Cambridge man formerly employed as a night watchman at Grosvenor
House; they then went to a house in Priory Road and to a field up Newmarket Road
where the jewellery was found.

05 06 15a # c.34.6

Wednesday 22nd June

1980

The new owner of the Old Vicarage at Grantchester is the best-selling author
Jeffrey Archer. When the house was sold last year the new owner’s name was kept
secret but now he has applied to demolish part of the out-buildings. However when
contacted by the News he said “This is absolute drivel, I am not making any changes
to the Old Vicarage and would not dream of touching it. The plan relates to a shed
were boots and shoes were kept, one wall is leaking and we want to replace it.”

80 06 21

1955

Hundreds of excited youngsters crowded round one of the large ‘jollity farm’
roundabouts for the traditional proclamation of Cambridge Midsummer Fair after
which out came the blue paper bags full of brand new halfpennies and up went the
youngsters’ hand as the coins were tossed into the crowd. Then it was free rides
for everybody. All the old favourites are back again – the ‘Moon Rocket’, ‘Octopus’
and ‘Galloping Horses’. “’Ere only a tanner a bash, keep all yer knock down” yelled
the man at the coconut shy while the carpet and lino sellers competed to see who
could shout the loudest

55 06 23 # c.27.3

1930

The New Cherryhinton Nursing Association was wound up; the nurse’s time has been by
no means fully occupied and much has been of an unskilled nature. Now Nurse Hodges
has left. 2,204 visits had been made during the year but many people prefer to
employ a private nurse rather than the district nurse, although she is fully
qualified for every branch of the work. The district was growing but new people
seemed disinclined to join the Association.

30 06 19d # c.21.3

1905
Sir – whilst regretting the shocking death of the bus conductor it must be said
that the Cambridge University and Town Motor Omnibus Company (the ‘Light Blue’)
have carried 68,000 passengers in the last two months without a single accident
having been reported to me – James Hammond, Manager.

05 06 16 # c.26.46

Thursday 23rd June

1980

Four people were taken to hospital after a car careered across a corner of
Cambridge Market Square. It ploughed across the Barclays Bank edge of the market,
striking a flower stall, scattering fruit and vegetables and hitting two shoppers
before ending up four feet from the railings of Gt St Mary’s church. A Girton lady
working on the flower stall said: “I just saw the car out of the corner of my eye
and ran for it. The stall just folded up with its legs in the air”

80 06 26 # c.26.48 # c.27.3

1955

Cambridge Central Cinema has installed a wide screen which allows a perfect view
from any angle & is a vivid contrast with the former ‘postage stamp’ model. It has
now come into line with the other main cinemas and is fully equipped for the
showing of CinemaScope. The first film will be the new Technicolor musical, ‘Three
for the Show’ starring Betty Grable

55 06 24 # c.76.9

1930

The old county gaol at Castle Hill was opened to the public. Since 1916 when it was
closed because of a scarcity of prisoners – it has been said there were not enough
to keep the place clean – the prison has only been used for Government record
purposes. Then it changed hands and became the property of the County Council; a
writer to the CDN threw out the suggestion that it should be opened for public
visitation, and the scheme became an actuality

30 06 20a # c.34.7

1905

The unveiling of the South African war memorial was marred by two small incidents.
The Mayor of Cambridge was without his trusty mace-bearers - apparently the maces
were securely locked up and the individual who holds the keys was not to be found.
Then police failed to recognise the military veterans and refused them admittance
to the ceremony to which they had been invited. There was a considerable amount of
confusion until the constables were enlightened as to the nature of the guests and
allowed them to pass.

05 06 17 # c.45

Friday 24th June

According to an undergraduate there were more men living in Girton college before
it officially went co-residential than there are now. A number of women have not
exactly welcomed the admission of men with open arms. One scientist referred to
“the horrible increase in the number of couples holding hands in the dinner queue”.
She felt the college had lost its character. “I don’t see why anybody would bother
to apply here. There is nothing really to attract people”, she said.

80 06 27a

1955

Members of the Amateur Radio Club visited the University Mathematical Laboratories
to see the electronic calculating machine, EDSAC 1, popularly known as the
‘electronic brain’ which was built in 1949 from Government surplus equipment. It
is capable of doing 40,000 calculations a minute and uses 3,800 valves. When they
arrived Fred Hoyle, the famous cosmologist and broadcaster was using it for
calculations on the evolutions of the stars. It also plays noughts and crosses.

55 06 25a # c.11

1930

Maids in their scanty summer frocks, flannelled youths, mothers and fathers and
grandfathers queued for admission to the County Gaol on Cambridge Castle Hill. The
execution shed was a popular rendezvous along with the condemned cell, the burial
ground and padded cell. People searched for links with the past. They found few.
The gaol is not what it was. Dirt and rust have replaced whitewashed walls and
polished steelwork and certain parts have become dilapidated.

30 06 20a # c.34.7

1905

A sensational report in the London papers that ‘the body a woman upon whose body a
variety of curious tattoo designs was found was discovered in the river at
Cambridge’ actually refers to a tragedy at Chatteris a fortnight ago. Two women of
the tramp class were pulled from the river. One had tattoos of the crucifixion on
her chest, a soldier, sailor and flags on her right arm and a fully-rigged ship,
English and American flags, the letter M and a woman in tights on her left. Her
left leg had a representation of a Highlander playing bagpipes

05 06 19a # c.39

Monday 27th June

1980

People busy borrowing books may not be aware that tomorrow will mark the 125th
anniversary of the free public library service in Cambridge. In 1855 the job of
librarian attracted a variety of applicants, amongst them a retired stage-coach
driver but a 22-year-old booksellers’ assistant, John Pink, was appointed librarian
and held it until he died 51 years later. Responsibility for running the service
passed from the city to the county council in 1974 and the present building in Lion
Yard opened in 1975.

80 06 27c

1955

Sawston residents objected to the ‘obnoxious smell’ that would be caused if a

sewerage disposal station were constructed near their homes. One said that he had
never known a sewerage works not to smell and referred to the ‘terrible stink along
the Milton Road’. Experts said the smell did not come so much when the winds blew
as in wet, warm muggy weather.

55 06 25b-c

1930

Well over 700 people visited the Cambridge County Gaol; it is a dingy old place and
looks a good deal the worse for wear. Most were surprised at the size of the prison
and had no idea that such extensive accommodation was provided. Having explored the
interior the majority couldn’t resist the fascination of a visit to the execution
shed just outside.

30 06 21b # c.34.6

1905

In the more ancient parts of Cambridge colleges several students used to occupy one
large room wherein they lived and slept; they had as private studies small
partitioned-off spaces in the corner of the room, each having a window. These still
exist but as students no longer live in groups they are now used for sleeping and
dining. It is unfair to criticise them as if they had been originally designed as
sleeping apartments.

05 06 22 # c.44.5

Tuesday 28th June

1980

Two hundred children from St Andrew’s Junior School, Chesterton watched the Bishop
of Ely laid the foundation stone for their new school in Nuffield Road. What they
did not see was that after the ceremony workmen knocked-down the specially-built
wall and carried off the foundation stone for use another day. It will stay in
store until somebody decides where in the school walls it should go.

80 06 28

1955

Opening an exhibition celebrating 100 years of public libraries in Cambridge, the

Master of Pembroke College, F.C. Roberts, said he was proud to have been chairman
of the Library committee for some years adding: “I should have been even prouder if
my first name had been correctly spelt! But these occasional mistakes show
librarians have humanity as well as scholarship”. There are books of every
description, a machine through which microfilm copies of newspapers are shown and a
cartoon by Ronald Searle.

55 06 27 a-b # c.77.4

1930

Aviation history was made when a Puss Moth aeroplane, one of the latest models of
its kind, arrived at Cambridge airfield. It carried English oak caskets of samples
of Leicestershire granite chippings. A cargo such as this has never before been
transported by air. The idea of the flight was to further the interests of
commercial aviation and to test opportunities afforded by this method of increasing
sales
30 06 21aa # c.26.1

1905

Sir – is it not about time that the annual Bacchanalian orgy known as Midsummer
Fair was abolished? On Saturday night men, women and even children intoxicated by
drink were behaving like maniacs. There were 14 tents for the supply of
intoxicating liquors whilst behaviour in the dancing tents is indescribable. In one
booth I saw two tiny mites whose mothers had given them too much to drink, for they
were quite intoxicated and outside another I saw five perambulators standing
unattended – A.J.L.B.

05 06 27a & b # c.27.3

Wednesday 29th June

1980

Frank Stoakley has retired from Heffers Bookshop which he joined in 1920. He is a
walking encyclopaedia when it comes to sorting out problems and even after the firm
installed a computer the staff still needed his expert knowledge. He spent 37 years
managing the scientific books department and since 1965 has been sorting out the
trickier requests for unusual or hard-to-come-by books

80 06 30a # c.25

1955

Cambridge came out in the sun for the visit of the Regimental Band of the
Coldstream Guards. Crowds lined the market square for the highspot of the day, a
march past the Guildhall, and then jammed the roads as they marched to Christ’s
Pieces for a concert. The purpose of the visit was ‘Good will and courtesy – with
recruiting into the bargain’. Asked if there had been any results so far an
official from the Mill Road recruiting office said ‘Not yet, but we have a feeling
there will be’

55 06 25d # c.45.8

1930

Six Cambridge bus drivers involved in the ‘battle’ of Sidney Street on the first
day of the May races appeared in court charged with obstruction. Only Ortona buses
were allowed to stop there but a long line of coaches had filled the whole side of
the road. The drivers said the monopoly was unfair. They also complained that
Ortona had increased the price of a ticket to Fen Ditton from twopence halfpenny to
sixpence a trip.

30 06 21aa & b # c.26.46

1905

Sir – may I protest against the needless pandemonium Chesterton residents are
forced to endure during the Midsummer Fair by the hideous orchestrations attached
to shows and merry-go-rounds, grinding out harsh and discordant sounds which make
day and night a time of torture. No sane people can find pleasure in the ear-
splitting metallic sounds emanating from these machines. Such a noise, coupled with
the hooting of horns and the screeching of steam whistles render rest an
impossibility – Nerves

05 06 27e # c.27.3

Thursday 30th June

1980

Sea Cadets have discovered a hoard of sunken treasure worth thousands of pounds in
the River Cam. Their boat’s engine failed and it was found that a fur wrap had
fouled the propeller. Whilst attempting to free it they discovered parts of a
suitcase containing silver cups, candelabra and boxes of jewels. Police put a guard
on the river until divers could carry out a full search. It is thought to be the
proceeds of a major crime and is now locked away at Cambridge police station

80 06 30b # c.34.6

1955

Officers of Cambridge Home Guard were told that the
surviving the dropping of a hydrogen bomb as it did
expense of such a bomb. But it would undoubtedly be
country so it was important they have Civil Defence
training
county had a good chance of
not present a target worth the
cut off from the rest of the
in addition to small arms

55 06 28 # c.45.8

1930

A fortune-teller arrested at Cambridge Midsummer Fair appeared in court for

palmistry. Two policewomen told how they had visited the ‘Royal Gypsy Reader’. They
were told that the face was character and the charge 1s.6d., the hands palmistry
and the cost 2s.6d. One was assured that her worst financial worries were over and
she would not go to the grave single; “You have not met the man yet, but he will
come”. Amelia Hazelhurst admitted the charge and was fined £1.

30 06 26a # c.27.3

1905

Sir – every year our Midsummer Fair is visited by a number of itinerant merchants
selling pots, pans, linoleum, furs, drapery and various oddments. They pay little
rent and no rates and taxes and yet they take away hundreds of pounds which our to
be spent in local shops. In many cases people actually pay more for the goods at
these mock auctions than they would in a proper shop – Tradesman

05 06 27c # c.27.3

Friday 1st July

1980

Nearly 2,000 people staged a big anti-missile rally at the disused airfield at
Molesworth. It had been originally planned for Lakenheath USAF base but was
switched following the announcement that Cruise missiles were to be based there.
The news came as a shock to villagers who had fought for years to have the airfield
returned to farming use. One is to write to President Carter asking for a £2,000
donation to the village hall fund by way of compensation.
80 06 30c # c.45.8

1955

Cambridge has 1,350 dwellings unfit for human habitation including 100 in the East
Road, Gothic and Doric Street areas. The Council is to submit proposals for the
demolition of 500 dwellings in the next five years and the remainder within the
following seven. But three condemned cottages at Brookside in Toft have been
reinstated by the Cottage Improvement Society and now make a charming group in this
beautiful yet little known corner of the village.

55 06 29 # c.23

1930

The annual excursion of blind and crippled people set off for Hunstanton. The long
procession of cars provided by the Cambridge Motor Club was headed by an Ortona bus
in its imposing coat of green, and in it was ‘Dave’ proving musical entertainment
on his banjo. The Police Poor and Needy Fund provided the delicacies for lunch and
tea on the beach

30 07 03

1905

The sale of the contents of Brooklands, the residence of the late E.B. Nunn at
Royston, featured a collection of objects that were formerly exhibited in the
Royston museum. They included a fine funereal urn found in excavations on the Heath
in 1854 which was sold to Baron von Hugel. A Roman brick bearing figures of
soldiers, found in a garden at Kneesworth, fetched 20s, a large spearhead made over
£4 while old muzzle-loading guns fetched only a shilling each. A collection of 70
17th-century tradesmen’s tokens were sold for £7

05 06 28 # c.41

Monday 4th July

1980

A former Burwell and District double-decker bus which was saved from the scrapyard
near Lincoln has arrived back in the village. The Daimler Fleetline was driven the
120 miles by two former Burwell and District drivers, Jim Neale and Brian Camps.
The bus ran faultlessly on the long journey home. Enthusiasts hope to restore it to
its former glory so that it can be used for charity work.

80 07 02a # c.26.46

1955

Contrary to rumour, there is no danger of parish councils being swept away in the
near future. People felt that power was with the County Council or Whitehall but
the parish council’s most important power was that of complaint – a power not
exercised sufficiently. The danger was the apathy of residents: there were some
parishes in which no one under 30 had ever voted. Many councillors did little but
deplore what local youth does & thought their major responsibility was to see no
money was spent. That was wrong, they should spend up to rate limits.

55 07 05b # c.35.6

1930

Chivers’ claims that their raspberry and plum crops had been damaged by dust from
Barrington cement works was upheld by the court. One side of the berries had been
scorched as if touched by some caustic substance. There was a visible film of dust
coming over from the works which stung the eye and could be smelled and tasted. The
works were quite ready to purchase the two fields and pay compensation

30 07 04 –b # CEMENT # CHIVERS

1905

The ‘Light Blue’ bus was chartered to take 20 King’s College men to Hunstanton and
back. The driver sent telegrams reporting their progress. The bus departed at 6.40
and reached at Ely at 7.50 where the party breakfasted before finally arriving at
2.20 in the afternoon. The return journey commenced at 4 pm and the passengers were
safely landed in Cambridge just before eleven. All agreed the trip was successful:
the roads were perfect, the scenery appreciated and only one light shower fell. The
bus pulled well and travelled the 120 miles without the slightest hitch.

05 07 01a # c.26.46

Tuesday 5th July

1980

Cambridge is now left with only one regular nightly music spot following the
closure of the Beaconfield and Alex Wood Halls and the Alma pub, mainly because of
complaints of noise. But there are at least 40 bands desperate for somewhere to
play and countless people who want to hear live music. The Carioca Club on
Newmarket Road is willing to let bands play on Tuesday nights but at a total rental
cost of £115 bands can’t afford it while the Salisbury Conservative Club on Mill
Road is almost fully booked until 1982. It leaves just the Great Northern Hotel.

80 07 02b # c.69

1955

Lloyds marked the 125th anniversary of their bank in St Ives. The first bank was
opened by Foster and Company in Bridge Street in 1830, transferring to new premises
in Crown Street in 1872. They were taken over in 1904 by the Capital and Counties
Bank which amalgamated with Lloyds in 1918. The present Crown Street premises were
rebuilt in 1923.

55 06 30 # c.32.8

1930

Having expended over £1,000 during the past five years in restoration of Over
parish church, those in this industrious village who control the affairs of their
House of Worship are still endeavouring to keep in step with the ravages of time.
Their appeal is done in a charming way: a fete. There was a concert, a shooting
gallery and in the evening a dance on the Vicarage lawn
40 07 05a

1905

Tea dealers have been running down their stock prior to the reduction in tax
announced by the Budget. Last night there was a tremendous rush to get tea out of
bond to replenish supplies. At Cambridge the stores of the four railway companies
have been converted into bonded warehouses where tea has been accumulating and by
Friday they had 245 chests ready for delivery. At six o’clock this morning about 23
tons was taken away to the shops so customers can be supplied.

05 07 01 # c.27.2 # c.28

Wednesday 6th July

1980

Don’t miss the spectacular opening nights of East Anglia’s news, biggest nightspot
– the Fish and Duck, Little Thetford. We’ve got the place, DJs, lighting, music,
groups, food. If you come you get an action-packed show you’ll never forget: Radio
1 DJ Dave Lee Travis & Pans People. Groups Clone & Red Express. Free Bar-BQ
included. 4,000 tickets at £4. – Advert

80 07 04

1955

An inquiry considered whether to reinstate the old Sutton-Mepal Road which was
closed during the war for the construction of the now disused airfield or to
construct a new by-pass road utilising the no.1 runway. This would divert traffic
from the sharp corner at the Brook and be cheaper. But it would mean a slightly
longer journey between the two villages and Mepal was dependent on Sutton for its
doctor, nurse and butcher. If it was one or the other they wanted the direct route
back.

55 07 01 # c.44.65

1930

The policy of building more rooms in college and drawing in as many men from the
lodging houses is creating a serious outlook for the lodging-house keepers. Many
have been told their rooms will not be required next term. If the University cannot
continue to utilise services which came into existence to serve their needs some
then other employment will be needed. If the University ceases to provide adequate
support Cambridge will have no alternative but to seek other means of livelihood.
We will be loath to see the town industrialised but people must live.

30 07 05b # c.27.4 # c.36.9 # c.44.5 # c.32.1

1905

Christ’s College is celebrating the 400th anniversary of its foundation and a host
of past members have returned. Dignitaries of the church, members of parliament,
men of eminence in the legal world and members of the learned professions are among
the distinguished company of guests

05 07 04 a & b # c.44.5
Thursday 7th July

1980

There have been a flood of complaints from people attending the opening of a new
riverside disco at the Fish and Duck, Lt Thetford. They say they did not get value
for money and just about everything was wrong: the barbecue was just one beefburger
in a bread roll, toilets were filthy and without water, drinks were over-priced
and glasses unavailable while many people turned up in old jeans when smart dress
was expected. But this has been strongly denied by the managing director who asked:
where can you get that kind of entertainment for £4?

80 07 08b

1955

Miss Kathleen Payne, 76, is retiring after a lifetime in the newsagents’ business
as her shop in Emmanuel Street is to be pulled down. It marks the end of one of
Cambridge’s familiar landmarks. The business was started by her father who
remembered selling his first C.D.N. in 1888. Miss Payne has lived there all her
life & recalls when chickens used to run down St Andrew’s Street before the days of
super shops, large cinemas and motor buses

55 07 02 # c.44.6

1930

Writing from Horningsea, Mr Hewson Cowen the bachelor who some time ago put up a
notice advertising for a wife states: “I am engaged to marry Miss A. Fitch from
Fulham and will be married on September 23rd in London. I desire to thank the
Cambridge Daily News for the kind publicity leading to such a happy result.”

30 07 10 # WOMEN

1905

A four-wheel baker’s van was found in Mr Duke’s meadow at Littlebury. It had a

covering reading ‘Pure Yeast Company, London’ and contained a set of harness, a
pair of reins, two baker’s baskets and five loaves of bread. The Metropolitan
police ascertained that it had been stolen on 22nd June and gave a description of
the horse which was found in a field near Sawston in a weak condition. The thief
has not been traced

05 06 30

Friday 8th July

1980

More than 400 people held a peace picnic on Jesus Green organised by Cambridgeshire
Council Against Missile Bases. It was opened by the leader of Cambridge City
Council who said: It is ironic that there are cuts, left right and centre while we
are spending money to kill people. It provided an opportunity to express opposition
through peaceful means and included performances by singer Jancis Harvey and a
troupe of Chilean refugee dancers.

80 07 07a # c.45.8

1955

The Mayor cut the first sod for the building of the Cambridge Residential Home for
Old People to be known as ‘Langdon House’. It will take 37 residents with special
provision for elderly married couples. Each will have a bed-sitting room with
running water and they will share dining and sitting rooms. It will cost them
£4.10s a week, but inability to meet this charge will not debar worthy residents
from being admitted as it will be open to all without distinction.

55 07 05a # c.30

1930

Adelaide bridge weighing 135 tons was lifted bodily to a different position across
the River Ouse. During the past few years it has had to carry heavy traffic during
the Sugar Beet season and its foundations were getting into a dangerous state.
Large piles were driven into the river and four large hydraulic jacks raised the
old bridge and moved it to out of the way. The new bridge will be constructed of
reinforced concrete and will occupy the same position

30 07 08 # c.44.75

1905

Cambridge Salvation Army held their annual field day at Jesus College when ‘twelve
hours of holy joy’ were spent by more than 1,000 members. There was lantern and
scarf drills and a feature of the variety fanfare was the singing of two converted
comedians, Poole and Rash. There has been a remarkable outbreak in the various
Salvation Army corps and more people have professed conversion during the last six
months that any other period on record.

05 07 04b

Monday 11th July

1980

Cambridge City Council may refuse to make extra spending cuts because it wants to
prevent staff sackings and reductions in public services. They may save money set
aside for work on the Cattle Market site – which will not be ready this year anyway
– and on modernising the Market Square lavatories. But they want to continue
drawing up plans for the Kite area if the present scheme fails.

80 07 08c

1955

Operation ‘Air raid siren’ went off without a hitch in Cambridge. In the
underground control room at the Guildhall the Civil Defence controller threw the
switch which started the well-known high-pitch whine of the ‘All Clear’ from ten
sirens across the district. All schoolchildren, hospitals and public bodies had
been warned but one or two people looked skyward and said it was ‘Just like old
times’. Home Office rulings prevent the testing of the wail of the warning for fear
of upsetting people.
55 07 07a # c.45.8

1930

Proposals for the uniting of the benefices of Fen Drayton with Conington and
Elsworth with Knapwell due to a shortage of clergy were discussed. But Christ’s
College was the patrons at Fen Drayton and could dismiss the parson at will; this
had been done in January when the clergyman was given six months notice. Clergymen
weren’t satisfied with £300 a year but a lot of other people had to live and work
on less than that for doing six days’ work a week.

30 07 11

1905

Ely council debated whether to acquire a steam fire engine. Messrs Merryweather’s
estimate was £314 and they were willing to allow payment to be spread over three
years. But they would have to build an engine house. Cambridge had many more
valuable buildings and they did not think it worth having one. Many ratepayers felt
it was not required; they had a system of hydrants and a very good pressure which
would reach any ordinary building without an engine at all. But several shopkeepers
said they should have one.

05 07 08a-cm # c.34.75

Tuesday 12th July

1980

Cambridge’s Labour councillors want to take the city out of the Government’s
national civil defence organisation and ban all council officers from any wartime
emergency planning. They say that Cambridge is in danger of becoming a nuclear
dustbin & attack the plans to site Cruise missiles at Molesworth. But Conservatives
say they are duty-bound to make arrangements to safeguard citizens in the event of
a nuclear attack.

80 07 08e # c.45.8

1955

Godmanchester county junior school was opened by the Countess of Sandwich.

Construction commenced in December 1953 and the school was brought into use after
the Easter holidays. It has been built to ease the overcrowding of the old
building in St Anne’s Lane & sited to allow a maximum area of playing fields. A
complete Roman skeleton which was discovered during excavations is now in the
Huntingdon museum.

55 07 08a

1930

Sir – what good will be served by the narrowing of Castle Street? For as long as I
can remember there have been cobbled areas alongside the pavements and cars have
stood on them to avoid obstructing the main road. Now kerbs are being placed there.
I regret the loss of one of the old-world features which used to make Cambridge an
interesting town, though such things seem to count for little nowadays – A.S.
Ramsey
30 07 12a # c.44.6

1905

The oldest industry in Britain, the manufactory of gun and tinder-box flints is
still carried on in the village of Brandon. The work is done in little sheds at the
back of the cottages where those engaged in this almost out-of-date occupation
dwell. They are sent to Spain and Italy where the tinder box still holds its ground
in rural region and travellers in remote areas find flint and steel a veritable
boom. Flints are also used in ingenious little mechanical devices for lighting
pipes and cigars which one sees in tobacco shop windows.

05 07 08a # FLINT # c.27

Wednesday 13th July

1980

Sinclair Research, the company founded by Mr Clive Sinclair who pioneered the
world’s first pocket calculators and micro-televisions wants to buy the church of
St Andrew the Great and turn it into a laboratory. They are currently researching
computers and electrically-powered vehicles and are looking for premises in central
Cambridge. But the church say he is unlikely to get permission because schemes for
offices, shops, a language school and a mosque had already been rejected.

80 07 08g c.27.1 # c.83

1955

Albert Grainger, the Burwell photographer, has died aged 69. A cheerful character
he had made a host of friends during his 31 years in the photographic business. He
worked as butler-valet for Lord Glanely at Exning House until in 1923 he set up in
business at Burwell. His first job was a wedding the day after the shop was opened.
Throughout his career he was assisted by his wife, Dorothy, who carried on the
business for some time after his illness.

55 07 08b # c.65.5

1930

General regulations affecting the use of motor vehicles first-year men are already
in force but in view of the numerous road fatalities last term much more stringent
bans will be in operation next year. Clare College says that the possession of
motor cars and motor bicycles prevent undergraduates from making the best use of
their residence in Cambridge and none of its students will be allowed to bring or
drive a motor vehicle. Cars must be kept in a public garage or in one of the
college garages on Castle Hill.

30 07 12a # c.36.9 # c.26.48

1905

Mr Prevett, the clever local Punch and Judy man was performing at a garden party
near Cottenham and demonstrating the unhappy relations between Punch and his spouse
with much vigour. At the conclusion of the show he was accosted by a lady who
protested his manipulation of the dolls was too brutal and would have a
demoralising effect on the poor innocent rustics. A short time after the lady
married, and quite recently was fined for assaulting her husband with a garden
rake!

05 07 08a # c.39 # WOMEN

Thursday 14th July

1980

Villagers worried over the siting of Cruise missiles at Molesworth packed a meeting
to fire questions at John Major M.P. He emphasised his support for the missiles and
said they were definitely coming unless all countries agreed on disarmament. There
would be 64 missiles housed in 16 separate bunkers which would be partly beneath
ground. The mounds would be earth covered and grassed over. During exercises
convoys of 20 vehicles would take to the road with the mobile missiles and remain
away over-night. He doubted whether house prices would be affected.

80 07 08f # c.45.8

1955

A youth dressed in a dark grey ‘Teddy Boy’ suit pleaded guilty to two charges of
assault following a fight between two ‘Teddy Boys’ at the Embassy Ballroom in Mill
Road Cambridge. “I had a row with my girlfriend and started swinging out at
everyone until somebody said the police were coming and I got frightened and ran
away”, he said.

55 07 08c

1930

Work has started on the provision of a model yacht pond and paddling pool as part
of an extensive scheme for the improvement of Sheep’s Green. This is one of
numerous schemes for providing work for the unemployed and when operations are in
full swing about 70 men will be employed. The Ladies’ and Men’s Bathing Place will
also be extended

30 07 12b # c.32.3 # c.32.1

1905

Mr Hutchinson of Brooklands Avenue attached a pair of natural wings to a swinging

balance and actuated them by means of an electric motor in the way in which a
bird’s wings move. Encouraged by the experiments he constructed a larger machine
with wings of 60 feet square, the power being supplied by a petrol cycle engine.
The results are encouraging but no actual attempt at unrestrained flight has been
attempted due to the probability of an unpremeditated decent. Were it to be
exhibited at the Mammoth Show what a ‘draw’ it would be.

05 07 08b # c.26.1

Friday 15th July

1980
The parishioners of Molesworth were too respectful to ask their M.P., John Major,
rude questions about the siting of Cruise missiles. They asked about the by-pass,
drainage, sewage and tenders for the bunkers. And one man, after asking about the
rateable value of his house said he would like to go back to his children and the
milking. Two who dared ask about the visual impact were told the missiles would be
grassed over. Perhaps they may be thatched as well?

80 07 10 # c.45.8

1955

A sculling boat to the memory of Mr Roy Burrell, a member of the ’99 Rowing Club
for over 30 years was named at Banham’s Boatyard. He was a great sportsman who had
done much for the rowing in Cambridge and a schoolmaster who had given every
encouragement to youth. He would never be forgotten in the annals of the club and
the records of the Cambs Rowing Association

55 07 08d # c.38 : rowing

1930

Great liberties have been taken with Sherlock Holmes and in plays and films you can
learn things that Sir Arthur Conan Doyle himself never knew. In ‘The Three
Students’ Sir Arthur laid the scene in a Cambridge college but in the ‘Moriarty’
film Holmes and Watson are both shown as undergraduates. It was here that their
great friendship began and from here that Holmes set forth to track down Moriarty
and his gang

30 07 12b # c.76

1905

‘Cyclist’ writes that he started on a long ride into the fen districts and
distinctly remembers placing a repair outfit in his saddlebag. When in one of the
most benighted parts of the fen he discovered a puncture he turned his machine in
readiness to repair it. To his disgust he found his repair outfit had been
abstracted from his bag. The theft is one of those paltry offences that only an
excessively mean nature would cause a man to commit.

05 07 08c # c.26.485

Monday 18th July

1980

Britain’s first test-tube baby clinic at Bourn Hall will open its doors to patients
at around £1,000 a time in the autumn. The Tudor mansion is now owned by Dr Bob
Edwards and Mr Patrick Steptoe in partnership with a London financial expert who
bought it from Associated Newspapers, owners of the ‘Daily Mail’. The 50-roomed
house will be the patients’ living quarters and tests carried out in five luxury
Portacabins.

80 07 11a

1955
The most disastrous fire at Haverhill for many years swept over a large area of the
timber yard of Messrs J. Bradnam of Withersfield Road. Fire brigades worked in
blistering hot conditions to stem the flames but the fire completely gutted the
long wooden building containing mechanical saws and also damaged a large crane used
for hauling huge logs of wood. Part of the town was without water as the supply was
diverted to give the firemen more pressure.

55 07 11

1930

Alderman Ralph Starr entered the photographic studios of Messrs Hills and Saunders
as a young man but then started a studio of his own and became one of Cambridge’s
most eminent photographers. He was Mayor in 1918 at a time when there was unrest
among the ex-Service men. Trouble broke out in Luton and he was asked to send 20
constables to keep order. For the next three days Cambridge, which might have
flared into disorder, was deprived of a considerable proportion of her own
protectors but the danger passed.

30 07 15 # c.65.5

1905

Ashwell R.D.C. heard that at Kelshall there was a portion of a fourteenth-century

village cross lying bottom upwards in a pond by the side of the Sandon road. It was
an interesting relic and should be placed on the green with a fence around it. The
cost need not exceed £2. The Chairman thought it was a matter for Kelshall parish
to deal with, but Mr Rand said: “Then it will stop where it is”. (Laughter). It was
referred to the parish meeting.

05 07 13c

Tuesday 19th July

1980

A 300-year-old dovecote at Bury Farm, Litlington, is to be demolished because of

its poor structural state. It is owned by Cambridgeshire County Council who have
been criticised for allowing the brick and clay slate listed building to
deteriorate. Even some county councillors say it is disgraceful that an authority
with responsibility for maintaining ancient buildings should have allowed one of
its own properties to fall down. But it would be too costly for the hard-up council
to restore

80 07 11b

1955

Just as hundreds of Cambridge office workers were about to leave for home down came
the rain in one of the most unusual thunderstorms. Only parts of the city were
affected, in others there was mild drizzle. At Coton lightning struck a transformer
under which an eight-year-old lad had been playing, close by a television aerial
was struck and split to pieces setting the tv on fire and a Comberton the chimney
stack of a house was struck, causing serious damage to the roof.

55 07 12
1930

An old Cambridge rag and bone collector sued a motorist for damages. She was
pushing her handcart across Newmarket Road when the car ran into her; it knocked
one of the wheels ‘all to smithereens’ and scattered her bags of rags in the road.
She claimed loss of earning of one big bag of rags at four stone each day and had
to hire another cart at two-and-six a week. The motorist, who said he was 73 and
first began driving a year ago, alleged the woman had ‘persisted in going on’ and
getting in his way.

30 07 17a-c

1905

Cambridge has regained a missing charter granted to the Borough in 1632 by King
Charles I. It is plainly written in Latin upon a huge scroll of parchment but is
mutilated by having a large circular patch cut away, possibly to cover a drum used
in the civil war. It was presented by the Royal Institution of South Wales who had
found it amongst their ancient papers; how it got there is not known.

05 07 13a-c # c.35.7 # c.43

Wednesday 20th July

1980

A steer escaped from Garnham’s meat wholesalers of Coldham’s Lane Cambridge while
it was on its way to be slaughtered. It jumped from a loading bay and got on to the
railway line where it was nearly hit by one train before galloping at full speed
towards another. Then it spotted a group of heifers on Stourbridge Common and
jumped a four-foot high fence to get into the field. It was finally shot dead by a
marksman after being surrounded by squads of police.

80 07 11c

1955

Seventy-year-old Bert Martin and his lifelong friend, Fred Peppercorn, have between
them worked for nearly 50 years at the Grange farm, Lolworth. In recognition they
received a Royal Agricultural Society medal from the Queen. When they were young
they regularly worked 12 hours a day and during harvest worked from five in the
morning to nine at night – all for sixpence a day. But a pint of beer was twopence
and tobacco a penny-halfpenny an ounce. Such men are the backbone of British
agriculture. Perhaps the hairs have turned a little grey and their backs are a
little bent but their fire and enthusiasm are still there. When are they going to
retire? Never: they want to keep on working as long as they can

55 07 14 # c.22

1930

A stockbroker’s wife told the court that she had stayed at the University Arms; in
the morning she threw her pink satin pyjamas on the floor and left her door open
when she went out. That night when she returned to her room after a ball she found
the bed had been turned down but the pyjamas were gone. They had cost £7 17s 6d the
year before and had scarcely been worn. Other guests had also lost their pyjamas
and nightgowns. But the judge said she was negligent in not closing her bedroom
door.
30 07 17 d-f # c.27.4

1905

An accident which came within a shade of becoming a fearful disaster occurred on

the main London to Norwich railway line at Lt Downham. A herd of horses were
crossing in Kiln Lane when they stampeded into the line. An express train came
around the curve and dashed into the animals. Four were killed outright and a fifth
injured. The engine and some of the coaches passed over the carcasses of the horses
but by some miracle the train kept on the metals. The bodies were removed and the
train continued its journey within 20 minutes

05 07 08d # c.26.2

Thursday 21st July

1980

Eltisley Cricket Club missed their centenary and only recently discovered their
true age. But now they intend to celebrate in style when they meet Godmanchester in
a return of a fixture first played 125 years ago. According to an ancient newspaper
cutting Eltisley won then by an innings but they are taking no chances this time
and are boosting their team by including former England wicket keeper Godfrey Evans
in their side.

80 07 11d

1955

The Plant Breeding Institute’s new buildings and experimental grounds at

Trumpington were opened by the Minister of Agriculture. It investigates the
improvement of Spring and winter wheat and breeds oats adapted to climatic
conditions of the Eastern counties whilst in potatoes its chief concern is the
battle with blight, eelworm, wart and virus diseases. A pathological section has
recently been established.

55 07 16a & aa # c.17

1930

There were remarkable scenes at the opening services of the Arbury Road Baptist
Church Hall and School. When the doors were flung open the crowd was far too large
for the building. Although many stood at the rear many more had to be content with
standing outside and taking part in the proceedings through the open windows. It
meets the religious needs of a large residential area of 4,000 people which has
come into existence since the war and it is hoped to built a chapel within a few
years

30 07 18 # c.83.05

1905

“Sir – the motor-car has come to stay, and some day everyone will wonder how people
could ever have done without it. The dust nuisance is very serious, but this will
soon come off the road, the noise is objectionable and so is the smell but they are
not unbearable. But the terror is the sight of an approaching car coming at the
rate of 30 or 40 miles an hour. Recently an increasing number of cars have been
taking the road between Cambridge and St Neots. Near the village of Croxton there
are two cross roads and several cottages and the village school stand on the high
road. Past these the motors dash by at such a furious rate that the numbers at the
back cannot be read. There would certainly be much rejoicing if the police
‘happened’ on one of these offending cars as it was racing past the school”

05 07 14 # c.26.48

Friday 22nd July

1980

An 11-year-old Fen Ditton girl, Lisa Colclough, has won a British women’s title in
roller-skating – the sport’s youngest-ever national champion. She was also runner-
up in figure skating. Roller-skating is run along parallel lines to ice skating –
much to seriously for Lisa to take her skates out on the Fen Ditton primary school
playground with her friends. They cost £200 a pair and the wheels would soon crack.

80 07 11e # c.38

1955

The windmill at Adventurer’s Fen, Wicken stands on a very isolated very isolated
spot. The whole direction of the drainage was changed when the fen was brought back
into cultivation during the war. It could never again work in that position and may
have gone the way of its neighbour in Sedge Fen. But thanks to Rex Wailes and Mr
Doran of the Great Ouse River Board it is to be repaired and moved to the entrance
of Wicken Sedge Fen where it will be seen by visitors. The work has been entrusted
to Mr C.J. Ison of Histon who himself moved the post mill at Madingley to its
present site. The cost will be borne by Lord Fairhaven.

55 07 16c # WINDMILL

1930

Queen Victoria’s portrait has been moved from the Council Chamber at Cambridge
Guildhall and replaced by a fine picture of Mr George Fisher who was mayor in 1840-
1-2. It was originally presented by his son, but owing to its dilapidated state was
not hung at the time. His grand-daughter Miss Enid Hudson has contributed to its
renovation, carried out by Messrs Perry Leach and Son.. It now hangs next to the
portrait of the late Ald. Kett.

30 07 19 # c.63 # C.35.7

1905

Mr J.A Martin of Ely said the water supply of the country was a most difficult
question. In the fen district the rivers constituted the main supply and every
precaution ought to be taken to keep them free from contamination. If they could
utilise the water out of the rivers they would have as good a supply as they could
wish. Mr Luddington of Littleport said many of the inhabitants turned to the river
for their supply but the city of Ely poured crude sewage into the stream above
them.

05 07 15a-d # c.24.2
Monday 25th July

1980

One of the biggest private houses & the last commercial farm in Cambridge is up for
sale. Rectory Farm on Madingley Road, built 16 years ago, is regarded as an
outstanding neo-Georgian design with five reception rooms, six bedrooms, two
bathrooms and a swimming pool. It is set in three acres of mature gardens & could
fetch around £250,000.

80 07 12 # c.06

1955

Motor cycle side-car scrambling came to the area for the first time on Sunday – and
what an exciting debut it made! The Matchless Club event at Elsworth proved so
exciting and such a spectacular attraction that a special handicap race was held.
Brian Stonebridge, the 25-year-old scramble star from Rampton won both. Nothing
could touch his B.S.A. 500 combination; he roared into every turn and jumped the
bumps at full throttle.

55 07 19 # c.38 : motorcycling

1930

Cambridge planners say that Huntingdon and Barton Road are already practically
fully developed on both sides, similar building is taking place along Trumpington
Road & housing in Madingley Road will increase now the sewers are laid. There will
probably be spur roads which will have no regard to the traffic needs of the area
as a whole and the result will be a hotch-potch similar to that before the days of
town planning. Soon there will be no possibility getting a cross-road between
Huntingdon Road and Trumpington without the demolition of buildings or serious
interference with the land-owners.

30 07 21a-c # c.49.4 # c.49.62

1905

Coe Fen was the scene of an interesting fire-extinguishing demonstration by the

Valor Company. A light wooden erection had been constructed coated by three gallons
of tar and a shavings and straw saturated with motor spirit was heaped around. It
was ignited by a match and with such violence did the flames break out that the
watching crowd was forced to fall back. The representative brought the appliance
into operation and the fire was subdued in about 25 seconds.

05 07 15dd # c.32.3 # c.34.75

Tuesday 26th July

1980

A comparison of basic food items in different supermarkets show that baked beams
continue to climb in price; a year ago a large tin of Sainsbury’s own brand cost
12p, now they are 15p. The price for Heinz beans varied from 17p at Finefare to 21p
at Budgen, Kelloggs’ cornflakes from 42p up to 52p, Ariel washing powder was
between 62p and 70p while Andrex toilet rolls were cheapest at Finefare at 34 ½ p
[THIRTY-FOUR AND A HALF PENCE]

80 07 17

1955

The County Library has issued far more books this year. The new branch library at
Bassingbourn is well used and library centres were provided for the first time at
Papworth Everard. The Matron of the Settlement provided accommodation in the
Welfare Hut and the stock of the existing library was handed to the county
authorities for amalgamation with the new books. A small library was also provided
at the school.

55 07 21 # c.77.7

1930

Early in March football circles were much excited about the sudden disappearance of
the joint treasurer of the Isle of Ely Football Committee leaving its affairs in a
somewhat involved state. The accounts had not been audited for some years but now
showed that the bank balance had been reduced from £69 down to £4. The chairman
said the treasurer had been his son-in-law but there was no one who had not
completely trusted him, as he had. Well he had let them down.

30 07 21e-f # c.38 : football

1905

Licensing magistrates were told that the old ferry at the Plough, Fen Ditton, scene
of the tragic sinking, would not be used again and a new boat would be obtained.
The old tenant had no knowledge of boats but the new one was a lighterman by trade
and understood the workings of a ferry. The old ferry was a ‘death trap’ and the
new one must be a safe one and competent to carry passengers.

05 07 17a # c.44.7

Wednesday 27th July

1980

The name Kerridge is to appear again in the title of a Cambridge building firm. Mr
Paul Kerridge, great-grandson of the man who started the group has taken a 75 per
cent share in the company which operated for 100 years. It was sold to Matthews
Holdings but when that group was taken over the Kerridge part was put up for sale
and has since been in several hands. The business will be run from Sturton Street
on the site of the original firm’s small works department and in the shadow of its
former headquarters

80 07 21 # c.23

1955

Jacqueline Elliott won the Granta Swimming Club’s annual ladies’ swim through
Cambridge beating her own record time; second was Joan Hill while Margaret Coe and
Pat Gough won the under 16 and under 14 cups. The cup for the youngest member
competing went to nine-year-old Lesley Robinson. The barge on which the officials
and timekeepers stood decided to sink and they had to make a hurried dash for the
shore!

55 07 22a

1930

The annual ‘No More War’ meeting of the Cambridge Peace Council was held indoors
instead of on Parker’s Piece because of heavy rain. But accompanied by the Boys’
Brigade Band they proceeded with drenched banners through the rain-swept streets.
They met to ensure the catastrophe of 1914 did not occur again. One must remember
the menace from the air. It was possible to turn civil aircraft into war craft and
chemical factories into works for the manufacture of poison gases and lethal rays.

30 07 21g # c.45.6

1905

The new Cambridge cemetery on Newmarket Road is nothing less than a small farm with
oats, wheat and barley covering over 20 acres. As yet very few interments have
taken place and years must elapse before graves encroach upon a great expanse of
the site which would otherwise be lying unproductive. The crops have a very
promising appearance and will produce a profit for ratepayers

05 07 18a & b # c.21.2

Thursday 28th July

1980

Arthur Prior joined the staff of Trinity in 1935 as the youngest porter ever
employed by a Cambridge college for the princely wage of £2.15s. a week in the days
when porters expected tips for their services; today he retires after being Head
Porter for 14 years having served five different Masters.. He is philosophical
about major changes such as the admission of women. “These youngsters think they
invented sex, but we had women here when I first came. They used to stay all night
even then, and we knew all about it”, he said.

80 07 25 # c.44.5

1955

Newmarket is unique and needs unique planning. Racing is more than the basic
industry, it is the be-all and end-all of the town. Land used by racing came right
into the centre and it would be at the peril of their lives if they tried to take
it. Many people travelled into Cambridge to work but it was difficult to find sites
for factories. Laureat Paddocks has been zoned for industrial development as has
the area between Granby Street and the railway. Some allotment land could be used
to provide homes but modern municipal houses with extensive gardens meant that
demand for allotments was decreasing.

55 07 22b & c

1930

Cambridge councillors rejected plans for the erection of a bungalow on Robinson

Crusoe Island & decided the existing old cottage and shed should be demolished and
that the Surveyor should report on the erection of suitable sheds for boating
purposes. They also considered land at Town Close, Old Chesterton which is occupied
by numerous caravans; their appearance is most objectionable and they should be
moved

30 07 22c # c.32.3 # c.46.5

1905

A number of gypsies who have been camping beside the Half-way House, Little
Thetford and employed as peapickers were responsible for a serious disturbance at
the pub. One had taken half a gallon of beer to work with him and returned for
more. On being refused service as he was drunk he became obnoxious, smashed a
quantity of crockery and assaulted the landlord.

05 07 18b # GYPSIES

Friday 29th July

1980

In 1974 patrons of the first ever Cambridge Beer Festival quaffed 12,000 pints of
ale, last year supplies peaked around the 40,000-pint mark. Tourists and foreign
students who stumble on the event appear baffled but a small band of punks was here
for the beer. One said it was cheap at prices from 39p a pint for mild to 48p for
the strongest bitters. One of CAMRA’s staunchest supporters, Dora Miller, a
sprightly advert for the merits of real beer at the age of 72 was serving behind
one of the counters.

80 07 25a

1955

Housewives turning on their taps in Fulbourn, Teversham and the Wilbrahams found
the softened water, for which they have asked so long, flowing into their sinks,
baths and washtubs. Cherry Hinton water softening station opened in 1935 but the
laying of a new main from Fleam Dyke Pumping Station was stopped by the war and
finally finished only four days ago.

55 07 23 # c.24.2

1930

At Harston the flow of water from springs had greatly decreased; fountains were
only trickling and one had ceased to run. At Barrington one of the chief fountains
had run dry and other villages were beginning to suffer. A deep bore had been sunk
at the cement works; after extensive pumping at the works the village water supply
dropped off and when the works shut down for a week the water improved.

30 07 22a-b # c.24.2

1905

The landlord of the Central Hotel, Cambridge, told how a man rang the bell in the
commercial room and as if he could have a ‘number’’. This was the customary way in
which commercial travellers asked for a room. Later the man said he could not pay
his bill. He did not believe he was a commercial traveller and called the police.
The man carried a parcel, neatly done up similar to those carried by travellers but
when opened it contained two racing calendars, a tin of boot polish and some
newspapers.

05 07 18d & e # c.27.4

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 1st August

1980

Foxton it has tripled in size during the 25 years that Thomas Edis has been a
parish councillor. He led the successful fight to save the railway station from Dr
Beeching’s axe and now many London commuters have helped swell the population to
about 1,200 people. But his greatest achievement was the installation of street
lighting in the mid 1950s – which had been under discussion since before the First
World War.

80 07 26

1955

Cambridge police may use ‘Vespa’ motorcycles to combat the shortage of officers and
reduce overtime. They are currently under-strength but by using police on Vespas on
the outskirts of the city could increase mobility at a reduced cost. It would cost
£1,440 to purchase eleven machines together with £300 for clothing and equipment
and £600 for petrol but would enable a saving of £4,000 a year.

55 07 26 # c.34.7

1930

Mrs Elizabeth Haslop has been described as a woman possessed of splendid business
acumen. She carried on her late husband’s butcher’s business in Silver Street
Cambridge and was the last link with the well-known firm which has been in
existence for nearly 100 years and will be carried on. In her earlier life she was
well-known in the Mill Road district where a small shop near Tension Road was run
in her name.

30 07 24 # c.27.2

1905

Sir – Great Shelford Parish Council have agreed at a meeting where ratepayers were
poorly represented to purchase land for a recreation ground at a cost of £600. I
believe slips of paper should have been left at every house on which the occupants
could have given their vote about adding this extra rate upon the already over-
burdened ratepayer. The owner of the land was deeply interested in the scheme and
would have presented it to the parish if he had been approached – John Rayment

05 07 20a
Tuesday 2nd August

1980

Meldreth’s ancient stocks, which stood on the village green, have been struck by a
car, destroying the medieval punishment frame. Now it lies in pieces against a
large tree and people are wondering whether it will be possible to repair.
Villagers believe the stocks are at least 400 years old & were last used in 1856
when a villager became unruly and started shouting in church.

80 07 28

1955

The Medical Officer for Cambridge says houses in Trinity Place together with
warehouses to the rear of King Street are unfit for human habitation; they are
dangerous and injurious to the health of the inhabitants & should be demolished.
People living there will be asked to quit within two months with the Council
finding alternative accommodation

55 07 27 # c.23

1930

The controversy over the University Farm on Huntingdon Road was resolved when
Cambridge councillors rejected proposals for a road across the land. It had never
been a ring road, only a road to be planned in the event of traffic conditions
demanding it. It was altogether wrong to put an arterial road in the middle of a
rural area which they desired to preserve and which they hoped would never be
required. They should ensure that Grantchester and Coton were not swallowed up by
Cambridge in the way that Trumpington and Girton were.

30 07 25a-c # c.49.62

1905

The population of Welches Dam was decreasing and the houses falling into ruins,
except the public houses. They were originally erected by the Middle Level for
their workmen and were not being kept up at all well. There was a chapel but it had
no sanitary convenience. The building of a school was entirely out of the question.
A conveyance should be provided to take the 33 children of school age from there
and Purl’s Bridge to Manea school. But they already had more children than they
could accommodate.

05 07 20b

Wednesday 3rd August

1980

Following the recent cut in petrol prices differences of 8p or more can be found by
shopping around with Tesco at Bar Hill charging £1.32 for a gallon compared to
£1.40 at Hallen’s on Victoria Road corner. Four-star is the main contender in the
fight for sales and a number of garages have dropped two-star altogether. Looking
back a year ago when many garages were short of petrol and ‘regulars only’ signs
littered the forecourts, the current surplus of supply seems barely credible. But
it is most unlikely we will return to the days when they gave free gifts and
trading stamps in a bid to attract business.

80 07 31

1955

Patrick Conway told magistrates he was driving a bus on Newmarket Road, intending
to turn right. He gave a hand signal and pulled into the centre of the road. A car
behind began to overtake forcing a motorcyclist to swerve. The motorist said he
thought the bus had stopped for passengers. Conductors in Cambridge buses should
give hand signals from the rear of the bus to supplement those of the driver, as
they did in London.

55 07 28 # c.26.46

1930

Cambridge councillors have received consent for a new road from Milton Road to
Histon Road at a cost of £18,135. St John’s College would give the land which was
required for housing purposes, it would be one of the best estates and the
frontages would sell at very high price. Grants have been received for King’s
Hedges and Green End Road as part of the unemployment scheme with one-third of the
labour being imported from the distressed areas.

30 07 25d # c.44.6 # c.32.1 # c.49.4

1905

A bus driver employed by the Cambridge Town and University Motor Omnibus Company
was summoned after an accident with a tram. He had tried to overtake a trolley when
one of his mudguards touched the tram’s front handrail. The collision caused the
tram to leave the line and go to the other side of the road. He claimed he could
have got through but the tram horse had become frightened at the noise of the bus
and quickened its pace; he had seen the horse ‘dance about’ on several occasions.
But magistrates said the bus driver had been too anxious to pass; the state of the
roads necessitated the greatest care and patience.

05 07 25a # c.26.46

Thursday 4th August

1980

Cambridge Civic Society fears a scheme to convert St Andrew the Great Church into
an electronics laboratory could open up the site for office building in the future.
They believe it would be more logical for Sinclair Research to move to the city
Science Park. The church has no access, is in a completely congested area and it
would be an enormous job to convert. But the planning watchdogs are away on holiday
and applications for some of our major planning disasters have gone through in
August, they say.

80 08 01

1955

What’s all this about people getting married at Shire Hall not being allowed to
park their cars in the Council car park? Have the County Council no romance in
their hearts and do they want to lose custom? People will be saying “Don’t go to
the Shire Hall for your wedding; if you do you’ll be chivvied out of it pronto”.
Some say park in front of the County Police headquarters – but this will stop
patrol cars getting out of the police yard. Who occupies the Council car park
anyway? Members of the Council and staff. Are there too many of these and too many
cars? I only asked!

55 07 30b

1930

County councillors should contribute towards water supply in the Linton district
because since the new Cambridge water scheme at Fulbourn came about a lot of the
village wells had run dry. Coun. Frost said: “I would not mind paying for a motor
charabanc to take them out to West Wratting and let them have a cup of tea out of
the pond – but I very much doubt that I should bring them back alive”. But this
would be the thin end of the wedge and umpteen other applications would come in
from other villages.

30 07 28a-c # c.24.2

1905

According to Dr Wilkinson Huntingdonshire has one of the highest death-rates from

cancer of any county in England. He believes that cancer is more prevalent in low-
lying or damp districts than elsewhere. The height of the land locally varies from
a few feet only above sea level in the fen district to between 200 and 250 feet
above

05 07 20d # c.21.1

Friday 5th August

1980

Fordham school was scheduled to be demolished until the Council listed it, allowing
only interior changes. It has now been turned into four homes. The headmaster’s
house and the original school of 1849 comprise two while the 1870 buildings housed
two more. One which used to be the school hall and gym, last used seven years ago.
The sitting room is dominated by the original 15-feet high windows; it is well-
insulated though it might take a small fortune to change the curtaining.

80 08 02 # c.36.6

1955

Electricity has now reached parts of rural Huntingdonshire. The new supply would be
made available to ten villages and hamlets and 65 farms, a total of 360 consumers.
By bringing modern amenities to the rural communities it helped arrest the drift
from the land and assisted in agricultural production. It was a very difficult one
to farm without mechanisation, but this needed electrical power the benefits of
which would be felt both by the farmer and his wife.

55 08 01 & 01a # c.24.6

1930

Opening Horningsea Hospital fete Miss Francis recalled that many people from Quy
used to walk to the village on Sundays to attend church as they only had one
service in their own. About 40 years ago, there being a good many men out of work,
a scheme was financed for digging coprolites but the venture failed after four
years. Ten years later Quy started their Nursing Association and the first patient
was from Horningsea

30 08 08

1905

The Board of Education have declined to recognise March Corn Exchange as a suitable
place to open a Girls’ School. This has caused serious problems. The committee had
advertised for a mistress but fortunately no appointment had been made. However
they had about 30 teachers who needed a secondary school but had nowhere to send
them. So they have decided to erect a temporary building for three years and asked
Mr Perkins to prepare rough plans

05 07 20c # c.36.6

Monday 8th August

1980

A Manea farmer has come up with a novel kind of horse-drawn vehicle which he is
convinced it will double the speed of his five-year-old pony. It comprises a narrow
vehicle set in motion by means of a walking platform connected to a gearing system
that turns the wheels. But there is still a long way to go before the first
horsecycle driver is booked for speeding.

80 08 06

1955

Dalham Hall, one of Britain’s stately homes, was threatened with destruction when
fire broke out in the roof. Built in 1705 the mansion is one of Suffolk’s best-
known beauty-spots and was once home to Cecil Rhodes. Despite working in intense
heat with lead from the roof melting round them firemen confined the blaze to the
roof but damage was caused by water which eventually seeped through to the
basement. Furniture, paintings and carpets were piled on the lawn where they were
guarded by police throughout the night.

55 08 04a

1930

The air exercises have begun and squadrons of fighting planes took off to engage in
bitter combat. Until the very last minute of peace 250 aeroplanes were being
secretly moved to vulnerable points and the men in command have been planning their
attacks. Five night bomber squadrons, nine day bomber squadrons and 11 fighter
squadrons will be engaged. Some are fitted with robot controls which can relieve
the pilot for extended periods on long flights.

30 08 12 # c.45.6 # c.26.1
1905

Littleport Parish Council considered a report on the outbreak of typhoid in the

village in 1904. Their natural water supply was from the river but Ely council was
now planning to discharge a large quantity of extra sewage into the Ouse. A piped
water supply was said to be too expensive and nobody would give them a direct reply
to their enquiries.

05 07 25b

Tuesday 9th August

1980

Super sailor Shane Acton returned in triumph to Cambridge after his tiny 20-year-
old wooden yacht, Super Shrimp, became the smallest boat ever to sail round the
world. He set off down the Cam in August 1972 with a plastic sextant to help his
find his way. He survived sharks and shipwrecks before ending up at the same spot
from which he started. The little boats of the Cam turned out in force to welcome
him home and there was a telegram of congratulations from Prince Philip

80 08 07

1955

With 126 babies a lot of noises is to be expected but they were surprisingly good
and few cries could be heard at Cambridge’s bonniest baby exhibition. For the most
part they sat contentedly on their mother’s knees waiting to be judged. Winners of
the various age categories were Teresa Murray from Byron Square, Joy Quinney of
Queen Edith’s Way; Linda Barker of Canterbury Street and Gerald Peachey of Sedgwick
Street while Patricia and Jacqueline Hooks of James Street won the twins
competition.

55 08 05c

1930

The Star Inn, Waterbeach had sold no beer or spirits since last May and the licence
was in jeopardy, a judge was told. The trade had run down and Pampisford Breweries
had refused delivery unless they were paid £65 for the beer. They had another
tenant ready to take over. The landlord said he had tried everything he knew to
make the house ‘go’ – got up dances, a shove ha’penny league and so on. There was
not a gallon of beer in the place.

30 08 14a

1905

A Cambridge motorist was summoned for driving a motor omnibus without having a
hackney carriage driver’s licence. PC Wade said the bus, carrying passengers, was
driven on to the pavement, damaging a lamp and flagstones. The driver said he lost
control as it was not the same gear he was used to. It was the usual practice to
try a man before applying for a licence and he was being taught to steer under the
supervision of a qualified person. He was fined 5s.

05 08 01 # c.26.46
Wednesday 10th August

1980

Villagers at Stow Longa have just received a cheque from Martha Drogin of Exeter,
New Hampshire. Last year she visited the village to find out more about her
ancestors and discovered they had received parish relief hand-out in the 1830s.
This helped her trace more of her relations and she has written a book about the
family. Now she has sent £10 to pay back the debt.

80 08 12

1955

Men of the 629 Airborne Light Regiment R.A.T.A., formerly known as the
“Cambridgeshires”, have completed their first parachute training course. In just
two weeks the men who come from all walks of life have been transformed into fully-
fledged parachutists and 140 of the volunteers will receive their wings. They
include Captain L.S. Brown who as headmaster of the Chesterton School had decided
to set the boys an example. But he landed awkwardly and became a visitor to the
therapy centre for treatment.

55 08 04a # c.45.8

1930

Hubert Gautrey a Cottenham motor car agent claimed £60 from Messrs M. Mack, motor
coach proprietors. They had advertised two Gilford 1929 sunlight saloon coaches for
sale. They wanted £1,120 per coach or £2,240 for the two and agreed to pay him £40
per coach commission if he found a purchaser. This he had done, but Mack’s claimed
the buyer had only paid £1,850 and they had reduced the sum to £20.

30 08 14c # c.26.46

1905

Sir – I was given permission to give Pierrot concerts on the children’s playground,
Christ’s Pieces but then the committee refused to allow me to use any seats for my
audience. I was then told they must be discontinued but offered a site on Midsummer
Common, only to have this withdrawn when residents complained. I am now left with
artistes on my hands and money wasted. My position is consequently very awkward -
Robert Elmslie

05 08 02 # c.69

Thursday 11th August

1980

Peter Arthur has retired as Cambridge’s county architect. He says two buildings
that are likely to stand the test of time are the Wisbech Library and the county
police headquarters at Hinchingbrooke. New buildings have to be highly flexible: “I
was looking at a primary school and wondering whether we could turn it into an old
people’s home”. Dealing with the effects of the cuts had been difficult: they were
grossly under-funded and the council would find that the longer repairs are left
the more expensive they would be.

80 08 12a

1950

A Linton timber merchant told the bankruptcy court that he had started as a haulage
contractor in 1942 and done well carting sand and gravel to aerodrome sites. When
that stopped in 1945 he was in charge of the saw mills at Linton until a serious
accident to his left hand left him unable to work for nearly two years. Later he
dealt in pit timber for the Coal Board but had to install new sawing machines at a
cost of £700 on hire-purchase. Last year he was disqualified from driving and
ceased trading the same day

55 08 04b

1930

A reader has sent a picture of a locomotive engine built by Headley Bros of the
Eagle Foundry, Cambridge in 1849. It was a small single-tank affair with two big
driving wheels, painted bright green and named the ‘Eagle’. At first there was no
tender, only a small place for the driver, though later it was extended to carry a
saloon. It was intended for the use of the Eastern Counties Railway’s engineer but
its career was marred when in 1850 it ran over and killed the district
superintendent.

30 08 19a # c.26.2

1905

Cambridge is to be one of four centres of the Light Delivery Van Trials organised
by the Automobile Club of Great Britain. Such mechanically propelled delivery vans
will enable the more expeditious delivery of goods and isolated parts of the
country will be linked with the cities. The trails will comprise 30 day’s service
of each vehicle in four classes from 5 cwt to a ton..

05 08 04

Friday 12th August

1980

A Stetchworth man renovating his house has found a hoard of gold coins worth at
least £6,000. He discovered the 106 mint-condition sovereigns and half-sovereigns
while digging up the floor of his cottage in Mill Lane to put in a damp course.
They were in a pot buried in the earth and date from 1817 to 1825. The coins have
been taken for examination while the coroner decides whether they are treasure
trove

80 08 13

1955

After vigorously debating for over ninety minutes Cambridge councillors voted to
protest to the Minister of Housing about plans for the erection of a hangar at
Marshall’s airfield. It would be a “fearful monstrosity being shoved up within 50
feet of peoples’ back gardens”. Having lost their planning powers to the county in
1947 they were perhaps impotent to help residents but should register their views.
55 08 05a & b

1930

The Beds, Cambs and Hunts Electricity Company sought permission to erect a power
line across the Waterbeach Lodge estate. They wanted to supply the village with
electricity and had secured way-leave for the whole route apart from this one pole.
But the owner, T.C. Lethbridge said the overhead wires would cross a paddock and he
would be unable to let it. He wanted an underground cable laid instead

30 08 20c # c.24.6

1905

Mr Jesse Boot the chemist’s chauffeur was convicted for driving at excessive speed
between Buntingford and Ware. One police officer stood by the 13th milestone,
another by the 7th, each clicked their watch as the car passed them. When they
later compared the readings they calculated that the intervening six miles had been
covered at a speed of 25 and five-sevenths miles an hour. They could not prove that
the chauffeur had been driving all the way but the only other people in the car
were Jesse Boot who was crippled with rheumatic gout and his wife, one of the most
nervous ladies that ever got into a motor car. But as the speed limit of 20 mph had
not been grossly exceeded the fine was reduced.

05 08 05

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 15th August

1980

Tennis star Virginia Wade’s father is to be asked to chip in to help save

Horningsea’s medieval church. It needs £10,000 to repair the leaky roof and tower
which is too unsafe to allow the church bells to be rung. Now Canon Eustace Wade
who was vicar in the 1930’s is one of the prominent people who will be approached
as part of a money-raising appeal

80 08 14a

1955

The National Skating Association tests for figure, dance and pair skating were held
at Cambridge Corn Exchange. All the candidates were pupils of resident instructors,
Brian and Mary Jackson. Those successful included Alan Southgate (inter-silver
figures), Mrs Bundy, Pat Reynolds and Myra Ellis (preliminary dance) and Ivan Ayres
(bronze dance). During the evening a roller dance contest was staged between teams
from U.S. Forces, St Neots and Cambridge.

55 08 13 # c.38 : skating

1930

Cambridge is well known to ‘Weary Willies’ – tramps – as ‘hard-up-town’ owing to

the quantity of cigarette ends which can be culled from its pavements, especially
during Term; ‘hard-up’ being the name they give to the tobacco gathered from the
streets. A few years ago vagrants found meagre fare in the casual wards: bread and
water for supper and breakfast with a scanty bread and cheese dinner. Today the
diet includes bread and margarine with tea or cocoa for supper & a dinner of
cheese, bread, margarine and vegetables

30 08 20a-b # c.32.9

1905

Two undergraduates said they were fishing at Holywell when Baron de Ketschemdorf
arrived in another punt and asked them to move. They declined, saying the river was
public, at which the Baron said he would throw them in the river. There was a
wrestle during which he tried to throttle them. The German said he had driven a
pole in the bed of the river showing that he had already occupied that water and it
was a point of etiquette not to fish there. The men had threatened to hit him with
a bucket. He was fined £1.

05 08 5b – d # c.38 : fishing

Tuesday 16th August

1980

Working windmills may return to the East Anglian countryside – not the drain the
fens or mill corn, but to generate electricity. Scientists at Cambridge
University’s Cavendish Laboratory have been working on wind turbine design with the
Central Electricity Generating Board who will shortly begin looking for an inland
site for the first large wind-powered generating machine. These could be sited in
flat lands where their impact on the environment would be less that on exposed
hilltops. They would be mounted on towers 150 feet high and when their 200-foot
blades turned each machine should generate enough electricity to heat 100 single-
bar electric fires.

80 08 14b # c.24.6

1955

Messrs W.J. Unwin, the Histon seedsmen, have now established an all-time record at
the British Gladiolus Society’s international show held at Westminster. They took
the large gold medal and silver trophy for the best flower exhibit and also won the
Daily Mail gold vase together with 20 other prizes. Unwin’s are pioneer breeders of
the new graceful miniature gladiolus which claimed so much interest at the
exhibition.

55 08 16

1930

There are only seven patients at Oakington Isolation Hospital, the cases were
chiefly scarlet fever and the virulence of this disease was decreasing. The matron
and porter have retired due to ill-health. It would be best to close it and arrange
for Cambridge sanatorium to take the patients. But the cost of maintenance there
was three shillings and sixpence more a week, councillors were told.

30 08 20d-e # c.21.4
1905

The burglary scare in Romsey Town has caused several amusing and one dangerous
incident. A gentleman was keeping an all-night watch for the burglar and about 1.30
a.m. thought he observed his quarry. At any rate a revolver which he had in his
possession went off. The bullet sped across the street and through the window of a
house opposite. It cut two holes in the hanging curtains, smashed a large fruit
dish and ended its career in a photographic frame.

05 08 05e # c.34.6 # MILL ROAD

Wednesday 17th August

1980

The old ways have been bought back at New Farm, Tetworth where David Davenport is
using a pre-war tractor and former horse-drawn combine, plus a 1907 steam engine to
harvest a special crop of thatching straw. It is the first time he has planted
long-stem wheat with an eye to cornering part of the thatching straw market and is
using the old methods because a modern combine would damage the straw

80 08 15a # THATCH

1955

Thatching is a fast-dying craft and in 50 years thatched houses will be a thing of

the past, claims Basil Rackham. There are no younger men coming to learn the craft
as it is too hard work for them. Before the war he did jobs all over the country
but now can get as much work as he can cope with in this area. At present he is
putting new roofs on cottages at Snailwell using wheat straw which should last 20
years. It is difficult to get first-class straw nowadays as too much artificial
manure is being used by farmers

55 08 18 # THATCH

1930

‘Ethyl’, as every motorist knows, is a super motor spirit with remarkable

properties. It causes engines to run more smoothly, delivers more power and
eliminates the ‘knock’ without retarding the spark. A few years back it was
obtainable at petrol filling stations almost everywhere and many motorists
cheerfully paid the extra penny a gallon. But sinister rumours circulated that the
lead tetra-ethyl it contained was injurious to health and gradually it disappeared.
Now following tests it will shortly be on sale again at the Olde Castle Hotel
garage in Cambridge.

30 08 21 & a # c.26.48

1905

A fire of alarming dimensions broke out at Witchford, two cottages and a number of
farm buildings opposite the church being totally destroyed. The flames attracted a
large number of people, harvest fields being deserted and work suspended for the
time but the flames had too good a hold. Ely Fire Brigade had difficulty finding
water but eventually a pond was found and the manual engine, with some 40 men to
pump, was got to work. The furniture was removed and placed in the churchyard, the
various domestic utensils dotted in amongst the tombstones.

05 08 10 # c.34.75
Thursday 18th August

1980

A nationally-famous armchair hedge in Mill Road, Cambridge, has gone up in flames.

Mr Thomas Conroy had carefully trimmed it over the past six years into the shape of
an armchair as ‘a bit of nonsense’. Countless tourists have taken snapshots of it.
But now the house has changed hands and the hedge has been dug up and burned
because its roots were threatening to cause problems to the foundations.

80 08 20 (neg 3058 79 14) # MILL ROAD

1955

An old grain store in Mill Lane is being converted into the new premises of the
Cambridge University Assistants’ Club. It is hard to realise that the spacious
lounge and dining hall once accommodated bags of golden corn brought up from the
river to feed the mill. It will become one of the most modern and comfortable
social centres in Cambridge. The polished floor of the dining room may do service
as a ballroom whilst the common room above gives a unique view of the river and Coe
Fen.

55 08 18a # c.32.5

1930

One of the new Willys-Manchester 35 cwt lorries arrived in Cambridge as part of its
10,000-mile demonstration run. The lorry, which is fully laden & fitted with a
special publicity body, toured the town attracting considerable attention. It
carried 60 pennants of agents which have been visited and the proprietors of the
Queens’ Garage, Newnham Road added theirs before it left for Hitchin. The garage is
to be shortly extended, provision being made for a showroom and toilet rooms.

30 08 23 # c.26.48

1905

A unique feature of the entertainment to be given in the Fellows’ Garden of King’s

College will be a series of cinematograph pictures illustrating the recent visit of
the French fleet. During the display the Police Band will discourse descriptive
music. The Chorister Glee Singers will be present and Mr Gambling will introduce
his new set of Italian Marionettes.

05 08 16 # c.76.9 # c.69

Friday 19th August

1980

Tesco stores at Bar Hill has paid out £40 to recover stray shopping trolleys
impounded by angry parish councillors. They had been dumped around the village and
despite protests the store failed to recover them. So workmen were sent on a
trolley round-up and recovered 40 from roads, play areas and ditches. They were
locked in a barn and an invoice was sent to Tesco to cover the cost of the
operation. The store says the price was ‘fair under the circumstances’
80 08 22

1955

An 80-year-old Cambridge man returned to his native city from which he left for
Canada at the beginning of the century. His verdict: “I don’t like it so much today
– it’s too crowded”. A.H. Hardwick called into the Little Rose in Trumpington
Street alongside the tailoring and gown-making business which his father ran. He
had 11 brothers and sisters, one of whom also emigrated to Canada.

55 08 18b

1930

Sandy Floral and Horticultural Society’s Show was one of the sunniest in the long
history of the Society. Over 4,000 people paid for admission and were offered a
splendid programme, the bands of the Irish and Coldstream Guards adding to the
functions. The heat had a disastrous effect on some of the animals, six Angora
rabbits and some pigeons dying as the result of the excessive sunshine. The most
serious drop was in the Horticultural section, this being attributed by market
gardeners and nurserymen to the hard winter

30 08 29a

1905

An accident took place on the Adelaide Bridge: Mr G. Washington of Littleport was

driving a party of nine or ten in his carrier’s van to Shippea Hill and when
descending the bridge the brake did not act properly. The horse became troublesome
and the front wheels of the cart separated from the rest of the wagon. Most of the
party were pitched out but escaped without serious injury. They had to make their
way home on foot.

05 08 17

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 22nd August

1980

‘Mandy Morton? Is she still around? – that reaction is one reason when the ex-
Spriguns singer / songwriter is back in Cambridge after a long absence. In 1968 she
formed a folk group to raise money for Cottenham Amateur Dramatic Society then
started Spriguns as resident group at the Anchor. Decca records transformed their
image with velvet shirts and fancy frocks and when the band broke up they were
elegantly dressed but not very rich. She became extremely popular in Norway and has
now returned to try her hand at the home market with a new album on Polydor out
soon.

80 08 28 # c.69

1955

The opening of the Anglo-American Memorial Playing Field at Saffron Walden marks
the completion of a project to commemorate 359 men of the 65th Fighter Wing which
had its headquarters at the Grammar School. A Memorial Apse also contains the names
of local British service personnel who gave their lives. The original scheme
included a Memorial Hall, tennis courts, bowling green and playground but these
were curtailed following a great increase in price. It is hoped these can be added
later

55 08 12 & 12a

1930

The new premises for the Loyal Order of Ancient Shepherds now under construction in
Market Street, Ely are being built by workmen who were members of the Society and
the bricks which came from Warboys and Whittlesey are also made by members. In 1914
the district had been in a state of chaos but was now flourishing and the new
building, designed by Tucker and Son, will be an everlasting monument to the Order.
The Central Hall is panelled in oak and there will be a kitchen and four large
offices.

30 08 29a-c

1905

The Clare and Bumpstead Joint Hospital Board have recently made use of their
isolation hospital on the Haverhill Road for the first time. The land was secured
in 1899 and the hospital erected at a cost of £350. It was not used until this year
when an outbreak of scarlet fever was notified at Clare and a nurse employed. The
case was successfully dealt with and the hospital has closed again.

05 08 18 # c.21.4

Tuesday 23rd August

1980

Harmony is reigning supreme over Steeple Bumpstead where the village’s female
barber-shop chorus has soared to success after it was formed a year ago. Now the
‘Countryline Chapter’ has been admitted to the US-based ‘Sweet Adeline’
organisation. They comprise women of all ages and from all walks of life including
one lass with polio who sings in her wheelchair. They get on well with the Saffron
Walden men’s barber-shop quartet and go to concerts together.

80 08 28

1955

Workmen engaged on the restoration of Isleham church have made an interesting

discovery: the solid oak beams in the roof are riddled with lead shot. Carved
figures that could be reached from the ground were defaced by the Roundheads but
since the angels in the roof are 60 feet above floor level they fired at them
instead. A number of dead bats have been found in the roof but no beetles. However
they have been there as some of the wood crumbles at the touch

55 08 20a/aa

1930

There are at present 107 stablemen out of work in Newmarket and there is little
chance of their being employed. The number will be serious increased by reductions
in Lord Derby’s staff at Stanley House. It is by far the largest racing stable and
has always been noted for its good treatment of the men. Frank Butters, the
trainer, said it was a great surprise; it was not the fault of the stable but the
heavy additional taxation which compelled the closure.

30 08 30a # c.32.1

1905

Caxton workhouse inmates had a pound of suet pudding with treacle for dinner on
Wednesday but left a great deal of it. On Thursday they had suet pudding again with
a little bread and cheese but simply ate the bread and cheese and left the suet
pudding. It was a waste of good stuff. Surely nobody could eat a pound of suet
pudding for dinner? But the Master said some of them ate three or four pounds of
it. It was decided to change to Irish stew on Wednesdays.

05 08 19 # WORKHOUSE # c.32.9

Wednesday 24th August

1980

The man who set fire to Ickleton church last year has written a letter of apology
to the vicar of another church he destroyed at Yateley in Hampshire. He’d also
tried set fire to Boughton church near Newark where a sparrow was shot during a BBC
recording. But no one in Ickleton has received a letter. Repairs should be
completed by the middle of next year but they are still waiting to see how much it
was going to cost and what the insurance company would pay.

80 08 29

1955

Pye has produced a radio clock. It incorporates an electric alarm clock with a 5-
amp socket so that either an electric fire or a tea maker can be set for the same
time as the alarm, which switches on the radio automatically. It operates on the
medium waveband with one pre-set long wave station and has a ‘sleep switch’ to
enable it to be turned off automatically when the owner falls asleep

55 08 20b # c.27.81

1930

There are a five-seater, a quad, a triplet and a tandem bicycle to be found at the
Belmont Cycle and Motor Works, King Street, Cambridge. They were formerly part of
the fleet of pacing multicycles used by the famous Dunlop racing teams at the old
Herne Hill track. Owing to the amount of motor traffic nowadays it is not advisable
to ride the ‘quint’, a lengthy machine, but the others are still available for use.

30 80 30b & c # c.26.485

1905

With the next issue of the ‘Cambridgeshire Weekly News’ will be presented an art
supplement containing photographs of the late Bishop of Ely and his successor. Both
have been specially taken by Messrs. Scott and Wilkinson and are remarkable
likenesses. They will be printed on specially prepared art paper in a style
suitable for framing. Much disappointment will be saved if those who desire a copy
will let their newsagents know without delay. Only a certain number will be printed
and the issue will not be repeated.

05 08 19a # c.04

Thursday 25th August

1980

The Electricity Generating Board is looking around Eastern England for a suitable
site for its first large wind-powered generating machine; it needs to be flat and
an area where it would not have an adverse affect on the environment. The
announcement was welcomed by the Astronomer Royal, Prof Sir Martin Ryle, who with
other scientists at the University’s Cavendish Laboratory have been undertaking
extensive design work on wind turbines.

80 08 29a

1955

Sappers of the 250 Field Squadron Royal Engineers (Territorial Army), Cambridge,
carried out an interesting exercise at Cley-Next-the Sea. They demolished a brick
and reinforced concrete structure which was formerly a battery observation post. It
remained after the war as an observatory for the Norfolk Naturalist Trust but
became unsafe due to erosion. Two substantial pillboxes at Satlhouse were also
blown-up

55 08 23

1930

The opportunity of seeing the execution gallows and other grim items offered for
sale by auction at the old County Gaol, Castle Hill, will doubtless attract a big
crowd. As well as the gallows will be sold cell doors, the iron gallery railing,
iron window grilles, stone steps and other component parts which went to make up a
place whose passing will be lamented by none.

30 08 30e

1905

Sir – the present motor buses are exceedingly disappointing. They are far too
cumbrous and top heavy; in the narrow streets people on the paths run the risk of
being struck by the projecting bodies. In damp or frosty weather the top heaviness
may cause the wheels to skid and one fears the consequences should one overturn.
They are very noisy and the stench from the oil is intolerable – in fact the
streets are contaminated all day long with the disgusting effluvia – ‘Ratepayer’

05 08 19 # c.26.46

Friday 26th August

1980

Cambridge has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country and is likely to
come through the recession relative unscathed. Jobs are being lost but the service
industries do better at such times and only 20 per cent of the work force are
employed in manufacturing industries. The city’s electronics and aerospace
industries are enjoying a respite from the general economic gloom. If a local
worker does lose his job he stands a good chance of finding another.

80 09 01 # c.32.1

1955

A swimming pool may be built at Huntingdon using money collected for a memorial
hall in 1945. Although a site had been acquired and designs approved building
restrictions had held up work and the costs had almost doubled. It was legally
possible to spend the funds on a pool although some of the donors might withdrawn
their monies saying it was not being used for the original purpose

55 08 24

1930

Sir – Old Romsey Town is a labyrinth of mean streets but it has enjoyed an oasis of
green and trees on the area bounded by Mill Road, Cavendish Road, Sedgwick Street
and St Philip’s Road. But half of this green and pleasant land is destined to
disappear. Already trees have been cut down and little box-like houses have been
erected in their place in Sedgwick Street. and similar erections are expected to
displace the mature trees shading St Philip’s Road. Except for the inclusion of
bathrooms these houses are not one whit more attractive than many others in the
area. An enlightened authority would have realised the potential of this site for
recreation – ‘Busybody’

30 09 01

1905

The Library Association Conference in Cambridge discussed Sunday opening. To

believe opponents Sunday was a season of celestial peace where only the sound of
church bells and the hymns of devout worshippers broke the sacred silence. By
opening libraries were doing a noble work in providing young men with a place to
read periodicals or great fiction. But others said Sunday opening had failed
because the average working man did not want to go there. It involved extra
expenditure which would be better devoted to new books.

05 08 24 & 24a # c.77.4

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 29th August

1980

Cambridge’s railway electrification came a step nearer when contractors handed over
the shell of the new power signal box near Hills Road bridge. It will take another
18 months to install the mass of circuitry which will enable a couple of men to
control every train, point and signal for miles around. The plan includes floodlit
carriage sidings with automatic washing plant for carriages. It is expected to come
into operation in May 1982

80 09 02a # c.26.2
1955

Many Fordham residents have been unable to sleep because of an ever-increasing

swarm of noisy crickets: in some houses forty have been caught a night. They are
everywhere – in the living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens and pantries. One was even
found drowned in a dish of beetroot and vinegar. The worst affected area is the
R.D.C. refuse pit. Now officials have started spraying and it is hoped they will
soon be exterminated.

55 08 26

1930

A white-coated auctioneer started the piece-meal destruction of the old Cambridge

County Gaol. Bidding was brisk as lot after lot was sold. Then came the execution
gallows but there were few bids and it was eventually sold for one pound. The
prison clock went for the sum of £5 amid the mutterings of buyers on the debris-
laden floor.

30 09 02a-c # c.34.6

1905

Cambridge Free Library is singularly rich in local literature due mainly to the
Librarian, John Pink. He was born some 67 years ago and is steeped in Cambridge
lore. There is little that he does not know and is always able to tell where the
answer is to be found. His catalogues testify to a conscience for detail and a zeal
to make the library as comprehensive as possible. His conscientious manner and
obliging disposition are reflected in all the members of his staff.

05 08 21b # c.77.4

Tuesday 30th August

1980

‘The Sun’ newspaper claimed that Highpoint prison was more of a prisoners’ paradise
than a jail. They painted a picture of prisoners indulging in regular sex sessions,
illicit drinking parties, lazing around in the sun, listening to music and being
fed sumptuous meals by a Savoy-trained chef. But a News reporter who visited left
feeling deeply depressed. The prisoners are low security risk. There are no
murderers or psychopaths: the majority are young working-class Londoners in for a
variety of offences such as burglaries, fraud and sex offences.

80 09 2b

1955

Wings Day gave a memorable send-off to the 629 (Cambridgeshire) Parachute Light
Regiment R.A. (T.A.) regiment in its new role. The first presentation was to its
Commanding Officer, Lt.-Col. J.G.A. Beckett whilst Major J.H. Sanders, at the age
of 52, completed the course along with his younger colleagues. Thirty of the new
parachutists will stage a mock attack at Duxford on Battle of Britain Sunday.

55 08 30 & a # c.45.8

1930
Seven deaths have been reported from various parts of the country and no break is
expected in the heat wave. In Cambridge temperatures of 88 degrees were recorded in
the shade, two lower than yesterday. A girl in green striped pyjamas was seen in
one of the main thoroughfares, an extreme symptom of the heat wave that holds the
town in its grip. There was an outbreak of open-necked shirts whilst those who were
less courageous fingered the tight damp bands that had once been collars and
wondered whether respectability was worth while. At midnight there were bathing
parties by the banks of the Cam

30 08 28 # c.12

1905

In 1901 there was a curate at Prickwillow named John Etheridge who created a very
favourable opinion but whose stay was short as it was discovered he had been
appointed upon forged credentials. He was arrested at a garden party at Liverpool
and sentenced to imprisonment. He is now in custody in the village of Catskill, New
York State for obtaining money by false pretences

05 08 26a & b. # c.82.01

Wednesday 31st August

1980

Visitors to Cambridge will be confused if they use the latest Ordnance Survey map
of the city. The Lion Yard shopping centre, completed more than five years ago, is
not shown but marked as a collection of tiny streets. Christ’s Lane, closed for the
past 15 years and not even visible, is still shown as leading from Drummer Street
to St Andrew’s Street whilst the University Centre is an empty space. Even the
Tourist Information Centre is shown as at the front of the Guildhall, rather than
the back. The O.S. said it did not seem very satisfactory

80 09 03b # c.49.9 # c.46.45

1955

Sir - Many cottages in our villages have recently been demolished and others are
marked out for removal in the near future but there is no involvement with local
history organisations. At Sawston a row of 18th-century cottages have been
demolished revealing remains of the old Black Swan public house for the first time.
Such items ought to be recorded – T.F. Teversham

55 08 31a

1930

Huntingdon & Godmanchester Councils are to purchase Houghton, Hemingford &

Godmanchester Locks together with Houghton Mill whilst St Ives have acquired the
Staunch. They again have control of the locks and the chance of putting them into a
proper state of repair. The town depended entirely on the river for its sanitation
and it was essential to keep a good head of water in the river. The vendor, Mr
Leonard Simpson says he regrets that his personal connection with the river that he
loves will be severed.

30 09 03a & b # RIVER OUSE # c.29.4

1905
Sir – I wish to protest against an act of vandalism. The fine of Cambridge from the
corner of Petty Cury with the stalls, old fountain and University Church has been
ruined by the erection of a lofty ‘stink pipe’ in the middle of the Market Place,
cutting the east window of the church in half. Why could this not have been run up
the side of the Guildhall where it would not have been such an eyesore? – Cantab.

05 08 26c

Thursday 1st September

1980

Anglers have declared war on the zander, a killer fish which they claim has
destroyed their sport in the last 10 years. The problem started in 1963 when the
Great Ouse River Board introduced them from Eastern Europe to try and broaden the
variety in local waterways. But since then the zander with its voracious appetite
and vicious killer instincts has practically taken over.

80 09 04a # c.38 : fishing

1955

The Government has approved Haverhill’s town expansion scheme which involves the
transfer of 5,000 of London’s ‘overspill’ population. Now planning can begin for
the additional plant needed at the waterworks and sewage farm to deal with the
increased population and demands of industry.

55 09 02a

1930

Another example of the ‘new Cambridge’ in the making is the extensive site on which
Magdalene College intends erecting an imposing new wing. It is at the rear of the
Pickerel and Cross Keys yards originally occupied by Bird’s vinegar and mustard
factory. Mallory Court will provide the principal access but eventually a complete
transformation will be effected by the demolition of all the property between the
bridge and Northampton Street making Magdalene Street a broad and handsome
thoroughfare.

30 09 03c # c.44.6 # c.44.5 # c.49.4

1905

At Willingham the labourers go to work at seven o’clock in the morning and work
until eleven. Then he has his luncheon (or ‘docky’ as he calls it) and begins again
at noon, working for another four hours when his day’s work is done. He does not
necessarily work until four for he has to get to his home then and leaves in such
time as to allow him to arrive comfortably. Likewise if his work lies at a distance
from his cottage he does not get to his place at work at seven but leaves home at
that hour. But he doesn’t get high wages.

05 08 26d # c.22 # c.32.1

Friday 2nd September

1980

England’s future lies with small industries in towns like Littleport which are free
of labour relations problems, said Euro MP Sir Fred Catherwood when he officially
opened four new factories in the town. The ceremony fulfilled the dream of late
Littleport councillor, Henry Crabb, who had campaigned for 30 years to revitalise
the town’s industry and now the road leading to the units built by the Council for
Small Industries in Rural Areas has been named him

80 09 04b

1955

In opening their enormous new showrooms in King Street Cambridge the firm of H.W.
Peak have passed another milestone. Everything for furnishing a home is here in
astonishing array. Apart from furniture there is electrical equipment such as
vacuum cleaners and washing machines together with televisions and Hi-Fi sound
equipment. They started just under 50 years ago selling second-hand furniture and
opened a large branch at King’s Lynn in 1937

55 09 02b # c.27.2

1930

A Cambridge women told the court she had locked the door of her home at no.5
Guildhall Place but left the front window unfastened to allow her son to get in
during the night. She was awakened by her estranged common-law husband who had got
in and was flourishing a revolver. He said it was a dummy revolver loaded with
blank cartridges and explained they had lived together for 14 years until she took
up with a new man.

30 09 04a # WOMAN

1905

Cambridge councillors refused to allow the Post Office to lay an underground cable
along Emmanuel Road to complete a telegraphic communication with Ely if telephone
wires belonging to the National Telephone Company were also laid. Now the
Postmaster will have to exercise statutory powers to complete the work. There is
already direct communication with Ipswich, Norwich and Peterborough; recently a
private wire giving the state of play in the Cambs v Norfolk match was handed in at
Norwich Post Office and in the offices of the C.D.N. eight minutes later.

05 08 29a & b # c.27.7

STORIES COPIED BUT NOT FULLY WRITTEN UP

1905, Aug 05

Jesse Boot chauffeurs speed trap – 05 08 05a

1905, Aug 15

Proposed cycle track, Midsummer Common – 05 08 15a & b # c.38 : cycling # c.32.3

1905, Aug 15

Hardwicke Arms, Arrington transferred to Public House Trust - # c.27.4 05 08 15c

1905 Aug 21

Library Association conference debate on Sunday opening – 05 08 21aaa # c.77.4

1955 Aug 09

Memories of Detective Ives who was with Willis – 55 08 09 # c.34.6

1955, Aug 09

Cambridge abattoir suggested – 55 08 09b

1980, Aug 15

Trinity Foot Beagles review – 80 08 15 # c.38 : hunting

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 5th September

1980

The first football excursion train to leave Cambridge station in almost three years
set off for Wolverhampton packed with United fans hoping to cheer John Docherty’s
men to a place in the third round of the League Cup. The train was one of the first
to use the no-alcohol regulation which British Rail hopes will reduce the incidence
of vandalism. There was no problem. No matter who they were – schoolboys,
skinheads, middle-aged mothers and fathers – no-one tried any surreptitious
supping.

80 09 03a # c.38 : football

1955

Fireworks and flying saucers celebrated the opening of the new showrooms of H.W.
Peak in King Street, Cambridge. Giant rockets were released from the roof of the
floodlit and gaily decorated building and the city was ‘bombed’ with balloons
released from aircraft. Each contained a numbered card and winners will share in
the distribution of £200 worth of furniture.

55 09 03 # c.27.2

1930

A thunderstorm greatly marred the big rally of British Legionists at Newmarket.

There were over 4,500 on parade and although a march-past was carried out the storm
that followed forced organisers to abandon a service. But that part of the
programme which the weather permitted was conducted with military precision and
fine spectacular effect. The men took the rainfall very cheerfully and sang well-
known war songs ‘Tipperary’ and ‘Pack up your troubles’ as it fell.

30 09 08 - a

1905
A number of fishermen and fireman had an enjoyable
On arriving at Upware they sat down to one of Host
which the fishermen went fishing and the remainder
tea and games. The return journey was enlivened by
Smith on his banjo. They reached home by 10 pm.
outing on board the ‘Majesty’.
Peachey’s liberal dinners after
had a trip to Ely, returning for
songs accompanied by Mr Sid

05 08 29d # c.26.3

Tuesday 6th September

1980

Cambridge University will now pay its clerical and administrative staff the same
overtime rates as other universities and the working week will be reduced by an
hour. They are outside the national pay structure but had agreed to be bound by the
results of negotiations by the Central Arbitration Committee in London. NALGO
members are now likely to accept a 13.5 per cent pay offer

80 09 05a # c.32.5

1955

One of the finest clubrooms for civil servants opened next door to the bowling
green in Brooklands Avenue, Cambridge. It is within easy reach of the officer and
membership is one-penny a week. It would enhance the civil service’s reputation for
high standards of integrity and once members entered they should completely forget
about rank.

55 09 06 # c.37

1930

An Ortona omnibus collided with a stationary Ford van at Old Chesterton and the
impact was so great that the van was hurled twenty yards along the road. William
Holmes was delivering meat when the bus crashed into the rear of his butcher’s
vehicle. He was taken completely by surprise and flung across the footpath but
managed to save a 70-year-old lady, Mrs Mansfield, by pulling her away. The van’s
steering gear was smashed, the body splintered and meat to the value of £10
scattered on the road.

30 09 09 # c.26.46

1905

The Rector of Coveney, Rev Charles Turner, has closed his church except during the
hours for service because of the visits of hatless women. Sightseeing, archaeology
and snap-shotting are subsidiary to worship and prayer; general conversation,
giggling and general moral hatlessness are utterly unbecoming and out of place, he
says. Some weeks ago a party of well-dressed girls wanted to have the keys of the
church and on being asked if they wanted to say their prayers burst out laughing.

05 08 29e # c.82.01 # WOMEN

Wednesday 7th September

1980

A Cambridgeshire engineer is using his van with as a mobile test-bed to try out
windmills made by his firm, Balance Engineering at New Wimpole. He has produced a
small wind generator to charge batteries and pump the water in solar panels. But he
does not have a wind tunnel to test his designs at different speeds – and that is
where the van comes in. Spinning above the roof is a rotor with six blades bolted
on to a special frame. He goes out early in the morning and drives at speeds of
five to 30 mph to test its performance.

80 09 05b # WINDMILL

1955

A Chippenham girl told an inquest she was playing on the disused aerodrome at
Snailwell when she went into a dugout and found a cardboard box tied with string.
She opened it and saw it contained the partly decomposed body of a child. It had
been there several years and it was now quite impossible to find the cause of
death.

55 09 09

1930

After considerable discussion it was agreed to purchase apparatus for artificial

sunlight treatment at the Cambridge Open-Air School. Some felt it might be
dangerous unless carefully used and children could be burned and blistered. But Dr
Paton Philip, the County Tuberculosis Officer, is an expert in this treatment and a
nurse had worked with the great specialist, Sir Henry Lovain. Most of the children
went there not from any disability but because they had the suspicion of
tuberculosis hanging over them

30 09 10a # c.36.5

1905

The new Romsey Town School is almost in a state of completion. The registration of
intending scholars has been taking place while the painters are putting the last
coats of varnish upon the interior woodwork. All that remains to be done consists
of the arrangement of the furniture. There are separate entrances for boys and
girls and the asphalted playground is divided by a wall to separate them during
play hours. Trees have been retained providing a charming environment which will be
made more delightful when the flowerbeds have been filled.

05 08 31 a/aa # c.36.5

Thursday 8th September

1980

Alan Ashpole OBE, who retired as county land agent last week, has attacked
proposals to sell off large chunks of Cambridgeshire’s 46,8000-acre smallholdings
estate. There are 1,270 tenants who farm plots of from two to 160 acres. It is very
hard work but gives people the chance to be their own master. Some councillors
believe the sale would raise much-needed cash but the land is inflation proof, it
is like our North Sea oil, he says.

80 09 05c

1955

A scroll authorising personnel of RAF Wyton to march through Huntingdon on

ceremonial occasions with bayonets fixed, colours flying, drums beating and bands
playing was presented to the Commanding Officer during celebrations to mark the
750th anniversary of the granting of the town’s first royal charter. A parade of
700 officers and men headed by the Central Band of the Royal Air Force marched past
as 12 Canberras and two Valiants flew overhead in salute.

55 09 09a & b

1930

Saffron Walden RDC considered whether to give their roadmen a week’s holiday: the
County Council had already granted their employees one and they should follow suit.
But they would then ask for a fortnight and the time would come when there was not
a penny left in the country at all. It would upset the farmers: agriculture was in
a very serious position and this was not the time to throw money away. It was
agreed on the casting vote of the chairman.

30 09 10b-c

1905

A curious incident occurred at a Baptist chapel in a village near Ely. As evening

service proceeded the daylight failed rapidly but no artificial lights were
forthcoming and the service had to be concluded in absolute darkness. Fortunately
the preacher did not rely upon notes and who shall say that his sermon will not
prove a light unto many, even if he himself was practically hidden in the
prevailing gloom!

05 09 02b # c.82.05

Friday 9th September

1980

A move to put Cambridgeshire libraries under the control of the education committee
was blocked by county councillors. The Hay Report had suggested the library service
should join with community education. But the education bureaucracy was already too
large and needed trimming. “We have one of the finest library services in the
country and no-one with any common sense will see that destroyed”, a Peterborough
councillor said

80 09 10 # c.77.7

1955

Pye demonstrated their new aircraft instrument landing system with a series of
flights in Dakotas between Cambridge and the De Havilland works at Hatfield. The
trips are also open to factory staff so they can see how the system allows the
pilot to land without having to be ‘talked down’ from the ground. They had barely
time to unfasten the seat belts, say ‘Thank you’ to the air hostess for packets of
20 cigarettes and the treble scotches before a loudspeaker commentary was started
on the landing.

55 09 10a-b # c.26.1

1930

The ‘Wander Bug’ has returned to Cambridge after an absence of four years. It was
in April 1926 that Mr & Mrs L.G. Murray, the tallest married couple in England,
started their journey round the world on two specially-constructed cycles. They met
Mussolini and were attacked by wolves. But the journey proved too much for his wife
who died because of the hardships and was buried in France.

30 09 10d-e

1905

It is approaching 20 years ago that the strange sect called the Agapemonites
founded by the late Brother Prince first secured a footing in Cambridge. Its advent
is surrounded in some mystery and owing to the secrecy imposed on its followers it
is difficult to speak with any degree of certainty of its growth. It was the time
when the Wesleyan community was undergoing a severe trial and many families left
the church, some joining the Abode of Love at a little school room in Elm Street
where services were marked with great simplicity. The death of Prince was a severe
test to his followers’ faith but things have gone on much as before.

05 09 05 – 05c # c.83

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 12th September

1980

When Radio Norfolk went on the air last night it gave a sneak preview of what the
future could hold for Cambridgeshire. It will be exactly the same economy-style
package – a small staff with highly sophisticated equipment broadcasting six hours
each weekday and ten at weekends and Radio Two at other times. It will look for
audience participation with phone-ins, sport and news. A manager for the
Cambridgeshire station will probably be appointed in the autumn

80 09 12b # c.27.8

1955

The Cambridge Express Printing Company has been acquired by W. Heffer & Sons. The
‘Express’ works have a long history. At one time they published a weekly newspaper
which was eventually incorporated with the ‘Cambridge Weekly News’ which in turn
amalgamated with the ‘Cambridge Independent Press and Chronicle’.

55 09 10e # c.25 # c.04

1930

The Edison Bell Gramophone and Radio Works at Huntingdon employ over 300 people.
About 30,000 ‘Radio’ records are made each week; they are stamped out between dies
and passed to girls to put the edge and finishing touches. Various gramophones and
wirelesses are manufactured including compact two and three valve ‘all-main’ sets
in preparation for the Radio Exhibition. Amongst the machinery used are automatic
lathes which need no human attention.

30 09 12 # c.27.8

1905

Sir – thousands of people in Romsey Town are anxious for a shorter route to the
railway station. Some years ago they had a private path but this was closed; a
shorter route, known as Coulson’s Path, was also taken away and passengers have to
go by the Devonshire Road. The erection of one of the old foot bridges, now lying
useless, somewhere near Charles Street or David Street would be a boon to both
railway and inhabitants – S. Hurrell.

05 09 06 # c.26.2

Tuesday 13th September

1980

An undertaker sitting in his van on the outskirts of Barkway saw a saucer-shaped

unidentified flying object cruise silently past at a height of 60 feet. “We were
eating our lunch and this brilliant silver object went past us”, he said. “It was
travelling about 30 mph and looked like two dustbin lids stuck together; it was
moving in a straight line, not going up or down”. Police say the Army had troops on
manoeuvres in the area but it was nothing to do with them.

80 09 17 # c.26.1

1955

A ‘flying saucer’ object – one of which has been seen in the vicinity recently –
will make an appearance at the Battle of Britain Show at R.A.F. Debden along with
Hunters, Sabres and Shackletons. The Valiant and Vulcan ‘V’ bombers will also fly
over. There will an attack by Meteor fighter-bombers and the R.A.F. Regiment will
deal with the ‘flying saucer’. There are strong rumours that ‘Dan Dare, Special
Agent’ will help the Regiment.

55 09 13 # c.26.1

1930

Much has been said about the destruction of the beauties of the Backs. But I must
protest against the awful wastepaper baskets that have made their appearance. It is
good to try and prevent litter along this favourite walk but surely something more
in harmony with the surroundings might have been found that these huge baskets
which look more suited for undergraduates’ laundry than litter

30 09 13 # c.32.3

1905

Thomas Stearn, the photographer, has died. He was one of the first resident
photographer in Cambridge 60 years ago, though an itinerant exponent of the art
known as Sarony had previously experimented with the faces and features of people
at his van on Parker’s Piece. He practised the wet process by which the unfortunate
subject has to compose his features for at least 30 seconds until in 1880 the ‘dry’
process reduced the exposure to a fraction of a second. His wife had the
distinction of being the first lady photographer in England. His two sons, Harry
and Walter, continue the business.

05 09 07 # c.65.5

Wednesday 14th September

1980

The National Trust has launched an appeal to replant the grand avenue at Wimpole
Hall, which was hit by Dutch elm disease. They have already replanted a mile of
limes but more than half of the 2½ [TWO AND A HALF] mile avenue is outside the
grounds. Now they want to buy the land, dig up stumps and clear scrub and concrete
from a wartime runway to restore the full length to its former glory

80 09 15

1955

An old thatched cottage at 81 High Street Cherry Hinton was deliberately set alight
by the Fire Service. The site has been acquired by Messrs. Dickerson for a modern
Esso service station and garage. In view of the age of the cottage and the lack of
any materials worthy of salvage it was decided that burning down was the most
expedient way of disposal. The previous owner said: “I’ve had it insured against
fire all these years and the policy doesn’t expire until Christmas!”

55 09 12

1930

The secret marriage just been revealed of a Cambridge girl Miss Rosa Kester of
Kimberley Road to Reginald Cory, a millionaire colliery owner and shipping magnate.
Her family had no idea of the wedding and the first the groom’s family knew was
when they saw a notice in the marriage column of a newspaper. Miss Kester, who is a
pretty blonde, first met her husband when she was secretary to the Curator of the
Botanical Garden to which he was a generous benefactor. He built the Curator’s
house which is known as Cory’s lodge after him.

30 09 16 # WOMEN

1905

It is seldom that a Cambridge tradesman, in the short time he can allow himself for
a holiday, undertakes such a hazardous venture as that successful accomplished by
Mr Alphonso Smith. He has succeeded in ascending Mont Blanc only to find the little
observatory on the summit so covered with snow that he could not find the door. It
was so bitterly cold that he made only a very short stay. He has no wish to make a
second ascent.

05 09 09 & a Hayles # c.38 : climbing

Thursday 15th September

1980

Cambridge United is poised to become the first club in Football League history to
play a competitive match behind closed doors. The move to curb soccer hooliganism
at the Abbey Stadium would involve next season’s visit by Chelsea and its notorious
fans – should the two teams still be in the Second Division. The move follows
troubles at Saturday’s match when Chelsea fans urinated in public causing some
local supporters to leave in disgust.

80 09 16 # c.38 : football

1955

Proposals to close Foxton railway station whilst keeping Harston open – which was
used even less – drew protests from Councillors. During September 60 passengers
used the station each week but this was a bad month for travel and prohibitive
fares were the reason for the small number of passengers. Alternative bus services
were far from adequate and there would be no prospect of halting the drift from the
countryside to the town if the station closed. There was a great deal of
development planned, which would result in a growth of population.

55 09 14 # c.26.2

1930

St Augustine’s church in Cambridge was erected on land given by the Rev. T.J.
Puckle in 1897. It was a memorial to the late Canon Churton, who was a saint; he
considered its most important function was the training of children. His brother
was a member of Westcott House and he suggested their men should assist. The new
vestry was a much-needed improvement. It would be used as a storeroom for chairs
and provide a room for small meetings.

30 09 17-a # c.83

1905

The absurdity of the system by which the Government issues licences to drivers of
motor cars has again been illustrated. Last year a licence was secured for a blind
man, now Hertfordshire County Council has issued one to an inmate of Leavesden
Asylum. A driving licence should be a certificate of competence to undertake
certain duties or what use is it?

05 09 09b # c.26.48

Friday 16th September

1980

A ‘flying squad of archaeologists could help avert a crisis, say the Cambridge
Antiquarian Society. Money for conservation and excavation has been drastically cut
because of recession and much of our ancient heritage is being destroyed. Many
historical buildings are also at risk and such a group could combine volunteers and
professional archaeologists to protect what can be saved and record what cannot.

80 09 12 # c.41

1955

Whitings Farm, Holywell Row, Mildenhall had been in size reduced when 60 acres were
acquired by the Air Ministry. It was full of weeds and rubbish, some of the fields
were sour and the hedges and ditches in
farmer and it should be returned to the
had lost barley seed and four inches of
best use of inherently bad land. He was
continue, an inquiry decided.
need of attention. The tenant was a poor
landlord who would farm it better. But he
topsoil in dust storms & was making the
a Grade ‘A’ farmer and should be allowed to

55 09 14a # c.22

1930

Miss Kitty Willers of Trumpington is a member of the Ladies’ Guild of Change

Ringers and is one of the very few women who regularly ring church bells. She has
rung in over 200 towers in 14 different countries, once cycling 55 miles each way.
On Saturday she biked 65 miles – partly in the rain - to attend the opening
ceremony of the bells at St Mary’s church, Bocking by the Bishop of Chelmsford.

30 09 17b # c.69 : bells

1905

The Auckland Road variety theatre, Cambridge is now known as the Hippodrome. It has
been taken over by Geo. Saphrini who has experience at the Britannia Theatre,
Glasgow and Alex Aubrey who has performed at all the principal halls in Great
Britain. Although the old circus ring has been retained there were no equestrian
turns but Professor Garford’s performing dogs and pigeons proved very wonderful and
the hundreds who filled the building saw feats of agility and strength and
extraordinary examples of human dexterity.. The programme was to have concluded
with a bioscope exhibition but owing to a mishap with the lamp the pictures could
not be shown.

05 09 12 # c.76

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 19th September

1980

Jack the jackdaw has been amusing and confusing the villagers of Histon. The tame
bird which has set up home on the green has befriended children at the nearby
village school and is fast becoming a tourist attraction. But his constant cries of
‘Jack’ and ‘Come on!’ have kept one resident awake and been mistaken by another for
the cries of cheeky children. The local policeman has been informed but no one has
turned up to claim the bird

80 09 18a

1955

Chivers have installed one of the most modern milking machines at their farm at
Haslingfield. It was built to their specifications by Simplex Dairy Equipment of
Cambridge. Now two men can deal with up to 80 cows in ninety minutes in a building
near the pasture with the milk being transferred direct to the dairy by a pipeline
arriving completely untouched by hand

55 09 15a

1930
Jack Hobbs came for the first time since the opening of the pavilion that bears his
name. He brought one of the most brilliant cricket teams that Parker’s Piece has
ever seen with seven who have captained England including Hobbs himself and
O’Connor, both of whom learned the game in Cambridge. By two o’clock there were at
least 5,000 spectators massed three and four deep round the entire field. Others
stood on the running boards of cars drawn up in Park Terrace to see the game.

30 09 18b-c # c.38 : cricket # c.32.3

1905

Sir – I believe the earliest Cambridge photographer was George Proctor, who lived
in New Square until he died about 1850. About the same time Sarony, a celebrated
photographer, was allowed to carry on his business in a caravan on Parker’s Piece.
There were others including Nichols who had a flourishing business; he moved from
Slaughter House Lane to St Mary’s Passage and later his son to Post Office Terrace.
He took my own portrait in 1854 and it is as good today as it was then – ‘Three-
score and twelve’

05 09 13a # c.65.5

Tuesday 20th September

1980

Anyone who has sat in a traffic queue tailing back into Downing Street from the
Lion Yard car park will know the frustration of arriving in Cambridge at peak
times. The tourist office says parking is atrocious and directs visitors to Saxon
Street where you can stay all day for 30p. The County Structure Plan foresees a
need for three new multi-storey car parks to cope with future demand. But rising
petrol prices or decreasing oil supplies could mean fewer cars on the road in the
future.

80 09 18b & c # c.26.48

1955

Alperson’s caravan manufacturers have found a new permanent home at Oaks Lodge on
the Fordham Road, Newmarket. It will enable them to increase production and
concentrate on the overseas market. There is a huge demand by the family man in the
big industrial areas who finds it economical to buy a caravan and leave it on a
site near the coast where he can stay every weekend.

55 09 16a

1930

The whole of Mill Road, Cambridge, was affected by a two-hour electricity stoppage
which came just as the first performance finished at both the Playhouse and Kinema
cinemas. The Kinema audience who had been watching a Western thriller, whiled away
the time in community singing. But some trouble was experienced with the queue for
the last show at the Playhouse which did not finish until midnight.

30 09 20 # c.76.9
1905

Haddenham’s new Baptist chapel is an ornament to the village; it will seat 339
adults or a mixed congregation of 450 with a small gallery at the front end. The
choir and organ will be placed in the south transept. The opening ceremony by Mrs
J. Chivers was attended by Baptists from almost every village in the county. A
party of 50 journeyed from Cambridge by motor ‘bus, cycle and train. The event was
a success and will doubtless be remembered for many years.

05 09 13b # c.82.05

Wednesday 21st September

1980

Too many have accused Huntingdon of lacking facilities for shopping and leisure.
Now work has started on an entertainment complex which will include a two-screen
cinema and bingo hall together with more shops. The High Street can already boast
some of the major chain stores and car parking is more than adequate. People
dismiss the town’s appearance because of the housing design and infamous ring road,
but it is surrounded by beautiful countryside and it has the potential to succeed.

80 09 18d

1955

On the map in 10 weeks. The first completed dwelling on the Arbury Road estate
extension, designed and built by Monkman of Halifax Road, Cambridge was started on
1st July 1955 and occupied on the 17th September. – Advert

55 09 16b # c.23

1930

Miss Brooks, the Cambs County Librarian said some books which were distasteful to
certain readers had been mutilated by self-appointed censors in villages. She had
difficulties inducing youths to read, bringing to the notice of village craftsmen
and farmers the technical book intended for them and exchanging books quickly
enough to keep pace with rapid readers. Village halls seldom had any accommodation
for a library; this should be made obligatory for any halls built with grants.

30 09 22a # c.77.7

1905

The number of children inmates of the Newmarket Union Workhouse is too small to
justify employing a teacher and for some years they have been sent to the Exning
School. Then a new Exning Road Council School was erected less than ten minutes’
walk from the Workhouse and the children admitted there without hesitation. But now
the Education Committee wants 25s. [TWENTY-FIVE SHILLINGS] a child per annum for
their education which the Guardians have refused to pay. The children went to the
school but were refused admission

05 09 14 & a # c.32.9 # c.36.6

Thursday 22nd September

1980

The Cambridgeshire-based MG owners club launched a campaign to save the cars when
British Leyland decided to stop making them and closed the Abingdon factory. Now
they plan to keep British sports cars in production by bringing out their own
special limited edition of the MGB Roadster. They will have rubber or chrome
bumpers, stainless steel sills and leather interiors and the price is likely to be
around £6,000.

80 09 19a

1955

An inquest heard that a 50-year old organist and cleaner at Elm parish church fell
down from a step-ladder when cleaning a window, breaking a leg-bone. He dragged
himself to the bell rope and started to ring an alarm. But when he realised nobody
would answer he crawled 40 feet to the west door of the church, managed to open it
and attracted the attention of a passer-by. He was in hospital for three weeks but
collapsed and died.

55 09 24

1930

There are currently very few people out of work in Ramsey but when the potatoes and
sugar beet were lifted unemployment would be very, very acute. Labourers are so
well paid that farmers cannot afford to employ them when they have only routine
work to do. As soon as the harvest is completed they are thrown off wholesale and
this is a heavy time for the Guardians until the spring. There is more actual
distress amongst these highly paid men than from any other district.

30 09 22b # c.22 # c.32.1

1905

Members of Sturton Street Methodist chapel cycled from Cambridge to Haslingfield to

celebrate their harvest thanksgiving. During the service some evilly-disposed
person with a table fork or hat-pin punctured the tyres of four ladies’ and one
gentleman’s cycles. Those who suffered in this disgraceful way would be pleased if
the police would take the matter in hand so that such scandalous conduct does not
reoccur.

05 09 16a

Friday 23rd September

1980

Cambridge’s top amateur gardener, Mr Ted Peacock, has died. He hit the headlines in
the early ‘70s when he decided to open his Byron Square gardens so people could see
the dahlias which were his pride and joy. It became an annual event and the wealthy
turned up in their Rolls-Royces. He was an expert on many other flowers, fruit and
vegetables and probably won more gardening show prizes than anyone else over a
period of 40 years.

80 09 19b # c.18

1955

One glance at Midsummer Common, Cambridge was enough to dispel any suggestion of
public apathy about Civil Defence. Hundreds of blue-uniformed figures took part in
the finals of ‘Exercise Challenge’. It tested their skill and knowledge and rescue
teams had the difficult task of retrieving a severely-injured casualty on a
stretcher while a stream of ‘distressed’ people were treated at a rest centre.

55 09 26a # c.45.8

1930

Tens of thousands of old documents are being destroyed every year so that fancy
goods like drums and tambourines might be made from the parchment. County Record
Offices should be established where they could be housed and skilled archivists
give them the proper attention. County Councils were too fully occupied with
questions of local government to give archives proper consideration but their
preservation was too big a matter to be treated as a sideshow, says Cambridge
Antiquarian Society.

30 09 24 # c.43

1905

A resident from the De Freville Estate, Cambridge, complains of the nuisance caused
by cock crowing. Two of his neighbours keep six to a dozen each and the annoyance
is so great that he has decided to leave the neighbourhood. Yet even life in a
charming suburb such as this has its disadvantages. It is like those referred to by
the auctioneer in selling a country mansion when he admitted that the rose leaves
made a great litter and the singing of the nightingale was inclined to disturb the
sleep of the occupants.

05 09 16b

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 26th September

1980

The Round House, Little Thetford is thought to be a lookout post built at the end
of the 15th century. It was lived in, divided up into two three-storey cottages, up
until 1959 and then stood empty for some years. The roof was in danger of
collapsing and the ‘stairs’ were virtual ladders. Now it has been turned into one
dwelling with a small extension at the rear. The thick walls are solid brick
throughout; built before the village it could well outlast it.

80 09 20

1955

The dedication and opening of an extension of Clare College Memorial Court was
performed by the Master, Sir Henry Thirkill, in the presence of nearly 1,300
scholars and relatives of the Clare men who died in World War II. The new Court
which has room for 44 undergraduates was designed by the architect Sir Giles Scott
who was amongst the congregation as he had been when the first portion was
dedicated 31 years earlier.

55 09 27 # c.44.5

1930

In 1924 the Ministry of Agriculture established a packing station at Cottenham as

an experiment in the better marketing of fruit on co-operative lines. Growers were
charged a flat race per bushel for the handling of their fruit. Next year they
formed an association and took it over. In 1926 and 1927 the apple crop failed
completely but in 1928 they reopened the station, purchasing apples from other
growers to keep it working economically. But they lost money and when the 1929 crop
failed decided to wind up the business.

30 09 26a & b # c.22.3

1905

A fire of gigantic proportions in Willingham completely destroyed 14 stacks. The

services of the village fire engines were requisitioned but one was found to be out
of order and practically useless. The fire was seen from Ely and hundreds of people
arrived from surrounding villages. Had the wind been in the south a large part of
the village would have been razed to the ground

065 09 19 # c.34.75

Tuesday 27th September

1980

Police are investigating a fire which badly damaged the former paper mill on
Newmarket Road, Cambridge and spread into the roof of the adjoining Globe pub where
customers were finishing their drinks. One who was using an outside lavatory
spotted the blaze and alerted the landlord who evacuated the pub and called the
fire brigade. The former mill, built in 1872, is owned by Norwich Brewers and has
been empty for years. The roof has been badly burned and the walls damaged by
smoke, heat and water

80 09 22 # c.34.75

1955

When a Hawker Hunter jet fighter crash-landed near Upware pumping station the pilot
was pulled from the aircraft and taken to the Ely RAF Hospital by a helicopter
which had taken off from Waterbeach airfield carrying the Station Commander, Gp
Capt Chackfield, to the scene of the crash. Units from Cambs and Fordham fire
brigades were called but the aircraft did not catch fire.

55 09 30a # c.26.1

1930

A sensation was caused at a meeting of the Cambs Agricultural Wages Committee when
all the farmers’ representatives left in protest. Workers claimed that the present
wages of one pound ten shillings for a 48 hour week was inadequate should be
increased by half-a-crown. Fewer men were now being employed so the wages bill
would not be higher. But farmers said that for many years they had only been able
to pay wages out of capital and that capital was in many cases now exhausted.

30 09 26 c-e # c.22

1905

The will of the late Mr Stephen Mansfield of Trumpington includes a bequest of £250
to Chesterton Baptist chapel where he once a teacher in the Sunday School. This is
not his only benefaction to the village; there are five almshouses erected by him
and their upkeep and stipends for the inmates are provided out of other property.
He also subscribed to the Royal Albert and Victoria Friendly Societies’ asylum and
left £100 to the poor of Trumpington

05 09 21 # c.32.9

Wednesday 28th September

1980

A family has stepped forward to claim Jack the jackdaw who has been amusing the
villagers at Histon with his cheeky repartee. “There was no mistaking that the bird
was theirs”, said Richard Spittle who first noticed Jack perched on a branch
outside his house. “The little girl said something completely gobbledegook and the
bird repeated it immediately. He came straight away as soon as she called him”.
They were very relieved to have him back. After he was featured in the News at
least four other families turned up claiming to have lost a pet jackdaw.

80 09 22a #

1955

The idea of a recreational club and canteen for University Assistants was first
suggested in 1946 and eventually a ‘disreputable warehouse’ was acquired in Mill
Lane. It has now been transformed into a magnificent club that was officially
opened by the Vice Chancellor. It will be managed by the Assistants themselves;
they have called innumerable meetings choosing decorations, furniture and china and
also acquired a piano and a radiogram

55 09 30b & c # c.37.5

1930

The Master of Clare College told librarians that a wealthy member of the college
had made a benefaction on condition that his bones were preserved above ground. His
body was put in a cupboard above the Hall. But undergraduates came to know of this
and took away various bones as mementoes. The college replaced them with other
bones so that skeleton remained more or less complete. But on Christmas Eve the
ghost of the benefactor visits various undergraduate rooms gathering in his scatter
parts.

30 09 26f # c.39 # GHOSTS

1905

The vicar of St Philip’s Church Cambridge recalled he had opposed a scheme for
abolishing the boys’, girls’ and infants’ Church Schools in Ross Street. There
would now be a new mixed school where nonconformist children would relieve
religious instruction – but not from him. If parents cared for Church instruction
they should fight to keep Ross Street schools open and support the new master, Mr
Meakin.

05 09 22a & b # c.36.5 # c.83.01

Thursday 29th September

1980

The European Parliament’s Committee on External Economic Relations has come to

Cambridge for a meeting in the Senate House because it is homeless. Dissent between
member countries has forced it to expensively tour the cities of the EEC like a
travelling troupe of well-heeled actors looking for a theatre. As chairman, Sir
Fred Catherwood is allowed to have one meeting a year in his own patch. But only 20
Cambridge citizens took up the opportunity to witness the world’s most powerful
trading bloc in action.

80 09 23a # c.33

1955

The Bell School of Languages in Cranmer Road, Cambridge was opened by the
Chancellor of Cambridge University, Marshal of the Royal Air Force, Lord Tedder.
This term 50 men and women from 22 countries including Germany, Cambodia, Saudi
Arabia and Finland are studying there. The Principal, Mr Bell, said the aim was not
only to teach the way we say things but the way we do them and warned students not
to be ‘a little colony of foreigners in England’

55 10 01 & a # c.36.52

1930

The Cambridge Disabled Soldiers Workshop in Gloucester Street has made a trading
profit for the first time since it opened four years ago. Four of the nine men had
returned to their villages for better pay after receiving training in repairs to
cane and rush work. They made good quality baskets for laundry and bottles as well
as remaking mattresses. Manufactured goods were sold at local fetes and the
Exhibition at the Imperial Institute when £300 worth of sales was realised. But the
net loss on the running of the institution was £141.

30 09 27b # c.45.6

1905

The differences between the Cambridge Town Council and the National Telephone
Company have resulted in a grave situation. A writ ordering the removal of poles
from Corporation property has been issued which, if obeyed, would disconnect the
whole of Fitzroy Street and Newmarket Road from the rest of the system. The crux of
the matter is the Council’s decision not to allow the Company to lay underground
wires. But this would give a more efficient service and they have offered to pay
the Council to do the work and give them half-a-crown per subscriber.

05 09 23 & a # c.27.7

Friday 30th September

1980

The Rathmore Club was founded 63 years ago as Cherry Hinton Liberal Club but with
the changing political climate became a social club about 20 years ago. Now the
general financial situation, falling membership – they have only 350 members - and
reduced bar sales means it may cease to operate at the end of the month.

80 09 24a # c.37.5

1955

A 19-year-old caravan dweller told Newmarket magistrates that her father-in-law was
a rag merchant and she helped to distribute tickets and collect articles from
houses. She had been going from house to house selling lace and pegs and had
knocked at a door in Falmouth Avenue when she saw some blouses and a towel on a
window-sill. She thought they had been left for collection. But the householder
said she had left them in an annexe to dry. When stopped by police the girl claimed
they had been given to her as a wedding present. She was fined £3 10s.

55 10 05 # GYPSIES

1930

Mr W.H. Evans who conducts the orchestra at the Cambridge New Theatre won fame as
one of the first airman to fly to Cambridge. He founded the first flying school in
Scotland and flew across the Firth of Forth in 1911. He made a flying tour on
behalf of the ‘Daily Mail’ and chose Cambridge as his first stopping place, landing
his Caudron biplane on the University Rifle Range, Grange Road on 27th June 1912.

30 09 27 b & c # c.26.1

1905

The Bishop of Norwich has accused a Suffolk vicar of immoral conduct. He was curate
of Holy Trinity church, Ely when he made the acquaintance of a somewhat eccentric
lady with partiality for the cloth who offered him a living of his own at Wickham
Market. This he accepted. Later she was admitted to a London workhouse and sought
his assistance, which he declined. In the meantime his congregation dwindled away,
the choir, organist and bellringers withdrew their service, repairs to the church
were neglected and church work paralysed.

05 09 26b-c # c.82.01

September 2005 stories copied but not written up

1905

Cambridge council refuses to allow telephone company to lay underground cables &
they unable to erect poles; want wayleave payment - 05 09 02 # c.27.7

Cambridge photographic club dinner – 05 09 29 b & c # c.65.5

1930

‘Pickwick’ amusement machine used in pub - - bagatelle – 30 09 02aaa, bbb & ccc #
c.38
preserving the beauties of Cambridge – no praise for what council has done – 30 09
05

Phineas, mascot seized – recalls Cambridge rag of March 1923 – 30 09 06a & b #
c.36.9 & photo – 30 09 06c

1955

Cambridge station improvements - cartoon – 55 09 10aaa # c.26.2

Police Vespa picture – 55 09 15bb

Baby found in disused air raid shelter, Chippenham Park, Snailwell – 55 09 21 #

WOMEN

Police issued with motor scooters – cartoon – 55 09 24a # c.34.6 # c.26.48

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 3rd October

1980

There are twice as many bicycles in Cambridge than in other towns, but there are
three times as many bike shops. The proprietor of University Cycles of King Street
says the overheads are high but with hard work it is possible to make a comfortable
living. Second-hand bike sales peak at the start of a university term and winter is
a good time for repairs as with ice and snow there are frequent breakages. But
Cedar Cycles of Cottenham say people travel out to them because they are the
cheapest in the area.

80 09 24b-c # c.26.485

1955

The number of children attending Stetchworth Heath Controlled School has more than
doubled recently and this number is unlike to decrease. In view of this the School
Managers have asked the County Education Department to let the school stay open
after all and to consider erecting a dining room

55 10 06 # c.36.6

1930

A woman told Saffron Walden magistrates that by hawking linoleum her husband and
herself earned on average about two pounds a day. The lino was purchased in London,
cut into strips and sold from door to door. They were hawking at Ugley when her
husband asked if she would like a glass of stout as she was feeding a young baby.
But they squabbled after he told her to continue selling while he stayed in the pub
and he’d smashed a pint mug into her mouth.

30 10 02a

1905
Mr S.W. Lack, the Histon cyclist has just completed another season during which his
successes have firmly established him in the front rank of cyclist athletes. Since
he began racing five years ago he has won prizes worth more than £2,000 which are
now on display at Joshua Taylor’s. They include the Ely Challenge Cup which he won
outright in 1903, despite fierce competition from London cyclists. They have all
been won on a ‘New Chesterton’ manufactured by W.J. Ison of Cambridge.

05 09 27a & b # c.26.485

Tuesday 4th October

1980

It is fifteen years since Kemptons fashion shop started in Fore Hill, Ely. Now
another has opened in the Rookery shopping development at Newmarket. Customers can
be sure of good personal service by somebody who knows what the fashion business is
about. It will stock the best range of coats in town and will keep up to date with
new styles while keeping an eye open for the ‘evergreen’ popular clothes sought by
the woman who remains conservative in her choice.

80 09 29a

1955

Felsted Sugar Beet Factory has begun to receive beet for processing into white
sugar. Amongst the first to send a consignment was Audley End Farms. Their Home
Farm has obtained a good yield by means of a system of irrigation, unique in the
district. A tractor-powered centrifugal pump distributes water down a network of
aluminium pipes to 20 sprinklers up to half-a-mile away. Without it the crop would
almost certainly have been a failure

55 10 07

1930

Few can have failed to be moved by the hymn ‘Nearer, my God, to thee’ that features
in the new movie ‘Atlantic’. It was written Sarah Flower Adams, the daughter of
Benjamin Flower the former editor of the ‘Cambridge Intelligencer’ who was
imprisoned for a libel on the Bishop of Llandaff in 1799. It was the only paper to
denounce the war with France as ‘absurd and wicked’

30 10 04a

1905

The Motor Car Act of 1903 lays down that a horse rider can indicate to a motorist
that he must stop. A driver told Buntingford magistrates that saw the signal but
his single brake would not act as he was going down a fairly steep hill and he
could not stop until he reached the bottom. He did his best to avoid the horse but
it was a timid animal ridden by a boy and it swerved into his car sustaining
injury. He was fined. The law says a motorist must be prepared to stop and the
defects of his brake will not excuse him

05 09 23b # c.26.48

Wednesday 5th October

1980

The county fire service will be ruined if planned cuts of £200,000 are implemented.
At Cambridge the number of firemen will be cut by 20 and one of the three pumping
appliances scrapped. There will be just one pump at Ramsey, March and Huntingdon
and even then redundancies might still be needed. And if the firemen settle for a
pay rise of more than 11 per cent there will have to be extra cuts. The news was
greeted with horror by councillors who say it would put the county in peril.

80 10 01

1955

Romsey School celebrated its 50th birthday; past and present scholars viewed
photographs of bygone days and recalled events from the past. The head, Mr S.J.
Granfield was joined by Mr S. Cannon who spoke of the first headmaster, George
Flavill. Then the old boys gathered round the piano to sing ‘Forty Years On’ and
other old songs he had taught them

55 10 07b # c.36.5

1930

Many in Cambridge will bid good-bye with regret to F.C. Pool, the general manager
of the New Theatre. Despite ever-increasing competition he saw record profits and
turnover in his first full year. His successor is Bertram Brown who is not used to
the ways of Cambridge undergraduates but has had something to do with Leeds
‘medicals’ and imagines they are much the same type

30 10 04a # c.76

1905

Buntingford magistrates, after inflicting a number of fines on too-speedy

motorists, now admit that milestones are not legal evidence of distance. They
cannot be sure that they are accurate to within a quarter-of-a-mile. Police should
employ a professional land surveyor to measure the distance and give evidence on
oath on each charge, which will add tremendously to the cost of prosecution. If
this ruling is upheld it will have an impact far beyond the motor-driving world as
county surveyors use them to calculate road maintenance costs.

05 09 30a # c.26.48 # c.44.65

Thursday 6th October

1980

The number of elderly people is rising so fast it is putting a strain on the health
and social services. Many people who have recently settled in the area have brought
their elderly relatives with them because of the rural and relatively peaceful
setting. There should be a change in emphasis from residential to community care
but the family must bear more of the responsibility.

80 10 01a # c.31

1955

Mr C. Gatward has won his appeal to continue making concrete roof tiles at Button
End Harston. He had purchased moulding machines from a manufacturer who had gone
out of business and as a number of houses in Cambridge were roofed with these tiles
there was a constant demand for replacement. Maximum output was 4,000 tiles weekly
and there would be no dust and little noise. The county planners said that the
unsightliness of stacked tiles and heaps of raw materials would be detrimental to
residents and the road was unsuitable for industrial traffic

55 10 10 # c.23

1930

Sir – does Cambridge derive much pecuniary benefit from the photographer who blocks
our busy street near the Post Office? I cannot believe that it was for this purpose
that the graves were removed opposite Woolworth’s. Other photographers would
probably like the same privileges accorded to the one who now blocks our path –
‘Old Cambridge’

30 10 06a # c.65.5

1905

An inquest was held at Fen Drayton on the death of a farmer labourer. James
Culpins, blacksmith, said he had shown him a light until he got to the end of the
stalls but then he must have taken mistaken Mrs Johnson’s light for that of Mr
Furness’ and made a wrong turn. The man fell over the wall of the bridge which was
only a foot high and very dangerous. A similar wall on the other side was fenced
in. The jury returned a verdict of ‘Accidentally killed’

05 09 29a
Friday 7th October

1980

A bullock barged into the Saffron Walden branch of Boots the chemist. A woman
snatched a toddler out of the way as it ran from one end of the store to the other.
It then skirted the cash tills and ran up the other side towards the entrance – all
without knocking a single item from the shelves. It was hustled back down the road
towards the cattle auction in Market Street from where it had escaped as it was
being loaded into a lorry.

80 10 01b

1955

A Waterbeach smallholder & member of the British Soil Association is convinced that
the increase in cancer is due to synthetic chemicals used in soaps and detergents
and the use of artificial fertilisers on the land. He deplores the burning of waste
straw which makes good a compost producing healthier and better flavoured
vegetables and throughout the long dry summer his crops have continued to thrive.

55 10 11 # c.22

1930

Rumours of the R101 airship disaster were received with incredulity in Cambridge
where thousands of people had seen it passing over. Early on milkmen and postmen
had the story that it had crashed in flames, but details were lacking. Inquiries in
London confirmed that the greater part of the passengers and crew had perished and
a special edition of the C.D.N. was issued. Amongst the victims was Walter
Radcliffe, a rigger on the airship, whose wife is a daughter of the late Mr Charles
Isaacs, the well-known Newmarket racing correspondent.

30 10 06b-e # c.26.1

1905

Cambridge possesses a road-racing cyclist of repute in Mr A.G. Markham one of the

most prominent of the North Road Club. Road-racing is not extensively advertised
and his achievements are not widely-known. Last Saturday he took part in the Club’s
12 hours’ unpaced time trial when he covered 193 miles including a ride to King’s
Lynn against a stiff breeze. Earlier he covered 100 miles in the good time of five
hours, 23 seconds. He rides a ‘Belmont’ Cycle made in King Street

05 09 27c # c.26.485

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 10th October

1980

Bomb disposal experts were called in when a bag containing five shells was found in
the Cam at Jesus Green lock. They were taken to the Army’s headquarters at
Colchester where one of them – a five-inch-long bullet shaped object – was
discovered to be a highly-explosive anti-tank shell. The others were solid-shot
shells used in the last war from an anti-tank gun. Lock-keeper Allan Brett had
spotted a plastic bag in the water, hooked it in and found the shells inside.

80 10 01e # c.45.8

1955

King Feisal of Iraq paid a private visit to Cambridge as the guest of the Vice-
Chancellor of the University. He arrived late because of fog and after lunching at
Christ’s College visited the Wren Library at Trinity and the Fitzwilliam Museum. He
then travelled to Marshall’s airfield where he displayed keen interest in a Venom
IV jet aircraft and the Comet jet and Viscount turboprop airliners. In the Royal
party was Mr Tariq Al Askari who was at Cambridge as a student

55 10 12b # c.02

1930

A big fire involving a large number of farming machines and carts broke out at
Charity Farm, Whittlesford and brought many early risers running from their homes
to help in the work of rescue. The first thoughts were for nine horses in the
stable which was quickly filling with smoke and flames. The horsekeeper had no easy
job in extricating the animals; one was particularly wild, and jumped a bar before
dashing out and the end horse was nearly burnt before it could be freed.

30 10 06f # c.34.75

1905

Cambridgeshire Angling Society has hired the rights of fishery in a stretch of

water from Littleport Dock Bridge nearly down to Brandon Creek. The small
subscription gives not only the benefit of fishing in a preserved fishery and the
assistance of the keeper, but also return tickets at single fares to a large number
of railway stations

05 09 30b # c.38 : fishing

Tuesday 11th October

1980

Fowlmere’s new bus service to Royston received an amazing response. Organisers

expected half a dozen people but instead there were 37 passengers. This is the kind
of service the county’s transport co-ordination department has been set up to
promote. It fulfils a need without costing a fortune. Diverting the bus through the
village only adds 10 minutes to the journey time. The fare from Fowlmere to Royston
is 38p. single

80 10 02 # c.26.46

1955

For the passengers on the Cambridge to Kettering train it was a normal journey; but
for the guard, Archie Sear of Cambridge it brought an end to a career lasting 50
years on the railway, 23 of them on the Kettering line. He became a familiar figure
to regular travellers and gained the title of ‘The Varsity Guard’. He has had a
remarkably smooth career and has never been asked to look after anything more
unusual than dogs, kittens and schoolchildren. The train has remained accident-free
and he has never had anything unusual to report – which in itself is extraordinary.

55 10 13 # c.26.2

1930

The King and Queen will experience a sense of regret at the retirement of Inspector
John Harrison of St Philip’s Road, Cambridge. He has been Royal inspector since
1916 and was on the Royal train which took their majesties to Sandringham at the
weekend. He remembers one occasion when he saw assembled on Wolferton station two
kings, five queens, two princes and two princesses. Inspector G. Goddard, also of
Cambridge, will succeed him.

30 10 09 & b # c.26.2

1905

A gruesome discovery was made near the G.E.R. station of Black Bank, a few miles
past Ely. On the railway line was found the trunk of a man’s body, and some feet
away the head which had evidently been severed by a passing train. The body has
been identified as a publican of Little Downham who was formerly in the Militia
Band at Ely.

05 10 03 # c.26.2

Wednesday 12th October

1980

Councillors are horrified at the state of Bourn Hall, the Tudor mansion which is
being converted into a test-tube baby clinic. Ugly metal cowls have been placed
over chimneys, an old wall has been demolished and the grounds spoiled by ugly
Portakabins. But these are not permanent fixtures and will only be used until
renovations can be carried out on the hall when money is available.

80 10 03a

1955

A dispute over the use of a roadway alongside Barway parish church was settled in
court. The owner of Pembroke Farm claimed his neighbour had nailed up a gate and
cut a trench across a road that he used to drive his cattle to his land. It was
agreed he could use one side of the road provided he erected a moveable hurdle
fence to keep cattle away from the house. Almost all the inhabitants of the hamlet
appeared on one side or other.

55 10 14

1930

For the past few months workmen have been engaged in constructing Cambridge’s new
Central Cinema in Hobson Street. The interior is decorated in a style reminiscent
of the Regal Super Cinema at Marble Arch. The prevailing colours are mauve, orange
and blue and the whole is surmounted by a dome in the form of a large star
surrounded by sky effects. On each of the walls there are large panels with
ornamental plastering surmounted by a design in the form of sunrise and illuminated
by hidden lights.

30 10 11 # c.76.9

1905

Cambridge Town Council wrote to Chesterton R.D.C. saying they wish to extend their
boundaries to incorporate parts of Chesterton, Cherry Hinton, Trumpington and
Grantchester. Chesterton are to reply saying they will give such project its most
strenuous opposition.

05 10 05-b # c.35.7

Thursday 13th October

1980

Cambridge Consultants are breaking new frontiers with technology which can print
words in 22-carat gold on egg shells or in edible ink on biscuits. They are
pioneering a process known as ink jet printing and have just opened a purpose-built
laboratory to develop specialist inks. Commercial applications include textile
printing, letters and labelling and a line printer can produce an incredible 10
miles of text an hour.

80 10 03b # c.27.1
1955

Two bothers, both of whom carry on house furnishing business in Cambridge, brought
their fourth High Court action against each other. A woman customer had gone to buy
a refrigerator, saw a shop named Peak’s in King Street and assumed it was the same
as Peak’s Furnishers of Fitzroy Street where she had an account. It was delivered
to her house but then she went to Fitzroy Street to pay for it. The judge said this
was a case of the utmost triviality and it was surprising it had not happened many
times before.

55 10 15 # c.27.2

1930

Crowds thronged Hobson Street endeavouring to gain admission to the opening of the
new Central Cinema. Many were unsuccessful. The Mayor gave a civic blessing to the
picture house: it was appropriate because the assessment value of the property
would go up and Hobson Street was going to pay a large contribution to the rates.
The film was Harold Lloyd’s first talkie ‘Welcome Danger’.

30 10 13 # c.76.9

1905

Cheshunt College opened its doors to theological students without any ceremonial.
It was founded in 1768 by Selina, the Countess of Huntingdon, and is strictly
undenominational. It moved to Cheshunt in 1792 where it was recognised by the
University of London and has now transferred to Cambridge. Houses in Cintra
Terrace, Hills Road, have been adapted for the 15 students; most will become
members of the University and read for degrees.

05 10 06 # c.36.9

Friday 14th October

1980

The new High Speed Train accelerates quickly by railway standards (but not by those
of a Mini). And it just keeps on accelerating. At around the 120 mph mark it felt
fast. The railway men have padded armchairs but the ride at the guard’s end is so
bad that BR are contemplating putting the space over to parcels and putting the
guards elsewhere. The drivers are dismissive of their skill: powerful engines,
powerful brakes, an air-conditioned cab and unrestricted vision make it a bit of a
doddle, they say, compared to driving a clapped-out diesel.

80 10 03c # c.26.2

1955

Cherry Hinton British Legion opened their new headquarters. The old building had
been a source of very great worry and eventually a portable building was bought. It
was stored free of charge for two-and-a-half years until a suitable site on
Fisher’s Lane came on to the market. They bought it using funds raised from whist
drivers

55 10 15a
1930

Cambridge is a wonderful place in these days, what with new cinemas, new
restaurants and new shops, not to mention the midget golf centres. Another is being
laid out at Belle Vue Gardens. It is an 18-hole course with fairways averaging 30
feet in length made of tarmac with a green fibre surface. In some holes it will be
necessary to send the ball over a five-barred gate, through the muzzle of a gun and
down a nine-feet ‘snake’ curled round a tree trunk.

30 10 11a # c.38 : golf

1905

The Cambridgeshire Weekly News has a larger reporting staff than any newspaper
within a radius of 50 miles and is enabled to give accounts of all local happenings
at first hand. It is non-party and non-sectarian, reporting Conservative and
Liberal functions and church and chapel events with strict impartiality. It also
publishes a first rate serial story together with columns of Friendly Society,
Photographic and Agricultural notes. The guaranteed weekly sale is over 10,000
copies.

05 10 07 # c.04

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 17th October

1980

Should you walk into the Three Blackbirds at Wood Ditton in the early hours of the
evening you will be greeted not by the sounds of a juke box but by the strains of
Bach, Beethoven and sometimes Elgar. For the landlord, Patrick Thompson, is
learning to play the violin and has joined evening classes to create his own
instrument

80 10 03d

1955

Dr Albert Schweitzer, the famous 80-year-old philosopher, received an Honorary

Degree in the University Senate House. He was warmly applauded by a large gathering
with people even climbing on the window ledges in the hope of witnessing the
ceremony. Hundreds waited in the rain to cheer him as he entered and left

55 10 24b & c # c.36.9

1930

Mr James Matthews, watchmaker and jeweller of Market Street, Ely took over the
business from his father and carried on with his sons till the day of his death.
For over 30 years he was a member of the old Cambridgeshire Volunteers and was
considered the crack shot in all the Eastern Counties. He attended Wimbledon and
later Bisley for 21 years in succession and always came out with honours.

30 10 16a

1905

A fire of considerable dimensions broke out at the Kennels farm, Great Wilbraham.
The farm buildings are roughly in the form of a square one side of which was a
spacious barn with a thatched roof. Villagers released horses from the stables and
the carts, wagons and harness were also quickly got out. Two chickens were the only
livestock to perish. The reflection in the sky of the burning buildings was plainly
discernible at Cambridge. Within 40 minutes the fire was practically over, so rapid
had been its progress.

05 10 13

Tuesday 18th October

1980

A pensioner lost his home and possessions when a fire ripped through his 16th-
century cottage at Thriplow. The entire roof and top floor – which had recently
been rethatched – were destroyed and neighbours rallied round to save what they
could. “There was a considerable amount of heroism – they even went into rooms that
were on fire, and the efforts of the firemen were enormous: they managed to save
the main structure of the house”, said his son.

80 10 06

1955

Ely Sailing Club’s timber-built headquarters on the Prickwillow Road was completely
destroyed by fire together with chairs and crockery which had been loaned for a
supper to celebrate the end of the sailing season. This is the second time the club
has lost its building. During the bad weather of 1949-50 it disappeared through the
subsidence of the bank on which it was standing overlooking Roswell Pits

55 10 24d

1930

Five miniature golf courses are now in operation in Cambridge. There are Messrs
Grays in Sidney Street and the octagon course in King Street. The Premier Hall, Old
Chesterton, has added midget golf to its other attractions and the Newmarket Road
has the course in the club-room at ‘The Bell’. Its holes represent hazards
encountered during a trip from ‘Trafalgar Square’ to ‘The Oval’. The latest 18-
hole course at the Belle Vue Gardens is all-weather and open-air. It features a
howitzer gun and a water jump and has been laid down by Capt Mullett who has
constructed others in Vancouver and San Francisco.

30 10 16c # c.38 : golf

1905

The English-speaking race are mourning the death of the greatest theatrical figure
of modern times, Sir Henry Irvine. He received an honorary degree from Cambridge
University and maintained a keen interest in Mr Redfern’s struggle to free
theatrical performances from the strangling control of the University. He was to
have visited the New Theatre on his farewell provincial tour next year.

05 10 14a & b # c.76

Wednesday 19th October

1980

One of the most dramatically effective road works, the St Ives by-pass which
provides the first new crossing of the Great Ouse since the 15th-century, sweeps
round the town partially using the track of the old St Ives to March railway line.
It will carry virtually all the vehicles presently queuing to cross the medieval
stone bridge which has been the worst bottleneck in the Cambridgeshire road system.
Now it will be closed and the average flow of 11,000 vehicles a day will dwindle to
around 500.

80 10 07a

1955

Since 1952 Cambridge has sold 84 pre-war and three post-war council houses. They
were going to be lived in whether they were bought or rented and people ought to be
able to buy them if they wanted. They had plenty of money to spend and wanted to
use it for repayments on house loans instead of frittering it away. If we can sell
the whole lot, we shall”, declared Ald Langden. But pre-war council houses sold for
£400 and it cost about £1,300 to replace them at present day prices. To say that
encouraging people to own the houses would make more them responsible citizens was
a most unworthy argument.

55 10 24a # c.23

1930

The purchase of the Old Vicarage at Hinxton for use as a private borstal
institution has prompted debate. Criminals are manufactured by sending the first
offender to prison. Recently a youth charged with sleeping out and being without
visible means of support was sentenced to 14 days lard labour because he did not
have a shilling in his pocket. Hinxton vicarage is to be used for such cases and
once villagers realise this they will applaud Mr Barnett and his scheme.

30 10 18

1905

The Trumpington Road has an unenviable notoriety for being frequented by shady and
suspicious characters. Lately the large houses have suffered depredations at the
hands of one of the burgling fraternity. Police supervision should be strengthened:
one constable was not sufficient. The Chief Constable said that being with easy
reach of London they offered a tempting bait to the criminals of the metropolis.
The man involved pretended to be collecting for a cricket club. He was today being
tried at Exeter

05 10 14b # c.34.6

Thursday 20th October

1980

Grantchester villagers gave a massive thumbs-down to County suggestions that their

114-year-old primary school should be closed. The number of children had dropped
from 108 to 31 as parents were not satisfied with its new ethos. It had previously
attracted the children of visiting academics. But the number of children in the
village is dropping, the teacher-pupil ratio was 1:12 when other schools had 30 or
more children for every teach, the cost was unacceptably high and there were places
at Barton

80 10 07b # c.36.6

1955

A tremendous welcome greeted the Queen as she arrived at Cambridge station. Crowds
had been waiting in the rain for over two hours and school children were tired of
the delay. The glass roof of the station platform sprang a leak and a man was sent
aloft to cover it with green waterproof. Exactly on time the train drew in and Her
Majesty stepped gracefully onto the platform. The women onlookers gasped as they
took in the details of her dress, a fitting emerald green coat with black fur
collar, green hat and black handbag.

55 10 20a # c.02

1930

The ‘Westland Wessex’ three-engined six-seater cabin monoplane de luxe arrived at

Marshall’s aerodrome. A CDN representative, seated in a padded brown leather seat
with arm and head rests found it glided so smoothly that he could scrawl down his
experiences in his best hand. From the air the new estate at Milton Road gave the
appearance of a toy town, King’s College chapel was a landmark and the white-
fronted Central Cinema very prominent. There is no vibration and the businessman
can take his secretary, for letters and notes are typed with ease.

30 10 20 # c.26.1

1905

The picturesque little church in the village of Kedington has recently been visited
by some nefarious individual and the two alms-boxes robbed of their contents. One
box is of a unique construction and consists of an oak tree trunk firmly embedded
in the ground, hollowed out at the top and having an old iron lid. The church is
locked during the week and there is no indication of forced entry; the robber may
have got the key from the Post Office.

05 10 18

Friday 21st October

1980

Sir – I was distressed at the news of the fire at the Papermills on Newmarket Road
which is believed to have been started deliberately. The house was listed in the
1970s as of historical interest and Norwich Brewery was ordered to put it in order.
The only results are some scaffolding in the back yard. The hoist is of industrial
archaeological interest as it was the second paper-mill in England, dating from
around 1700. Perhaps the fire may result in repairs to what was once described as
‘the most beautiful house in Cambridge’ – Nan Youngman

1955

A crowd of several thousands massed in Cambridge Market Place as the Royal

procession moved slowly towards the Guildhall. The Queen looked radiant as the
Mayor (Ald E. Halnan) presented her with an Electryte Cardiograph adapted by a
local firm to monitor the heart of her thoroughbred racehorses. She thanked him
warmly saying “this ingenious machine will be put to good use”. Then she made an
appearance on the balcony, waving to the crowd who cheered back.

55 10 20b # c.02

1930

Whittlesford, the scene of several fires in the last few weeks, was thrown into
excitement by another disastrous blaze when ‘Hilthatch’, a picturesque residence
near the Station, was burnt out. The RAF fire appliance was soon on the scene but
could only fight the flames with buckets of water. By the time the Dennis engine
arrived from Cambridge flames were leaping to a height of over 50 feet. It is
understood the place was insured for the owner was seen searching for her policy
before abandoning her house.

30 10 21

1905

Fire at St Neots resulted in the complete destruction of the extensive brewery

premises of Messrs Paine and Co in the centre of the town. An adjacent flour mill
was also burned down and it was only the fortunate veering of the wind that saved
the whole of one side of the Market Square from demolition. The inhabitants were in
a state of panic. The telegraphic instruments from the Post Office was removed,
together with furniture from many adjoining houses. The blaze was seen for many
miles around.

05 10 19 # c.27.4

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 24th October

1980

The Railway Development Society have hired British Rail’s experimental railbus, a
mustard-yellow Leyland Experimental Vehicle which looks like two buses bolted back
to back for trips from Cambridge to Bury St Edmunds. It is an important step in the
development of a new generation of cheap, light-weight railcars which could replace
the present diesel multiple units.

80 10 10a # c.26.2

1955
There was heavy rain as the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh. arrived for the ceremonial
opening of the new Veterinary School where a batch of undergraduates lay down their
gowns in a Sir Walter Raleigh act. The Queen was much taken and amused but her
private detective, fearing that Her Majesty might trip on the loose gowns, asked
for them to be taken up. But a loud cheer greeted the her smile at the gesture.

55 10 21a & b # c.02 # c.36.9

1930

Sir – the proposal to use Hinxton vicarage to house young men who have come into
contact with the police prompts the question: ‘What are they to do?’ You cannot
keep them shut up in the Vicarage, there is no ground to employ them on and if they
are sent to the farms they will compete with local men. Are they to be allowed to
loaf about the village? – Charles Robinson, Hinxton Hall

30 10 22

1905

Nelson Day in Cambridge was marked by flags and on Sunday references to his life
and death were made in many of the churches. On Saturday evening a partially
successful attempt at a rag was made by a number of University and town youths,
thus amply justifying the Mayor’s decision not to promote any public demonstration
which might have provided the necessary excitement for a serious disturbance.

05 10 23a # c.02

Tuesday 25th October

1980

The Specials will remember their visit to the Supertent on Cambridge’s Midsummer
Common. They had to contend with the vast acoustics imbalances of a grotesquely
inappropriate circus arena, the mindless inanities of their so-called followers and
the inevitable trouble. The music was terrific but the tension for too pronounced.
Lead singer Terry Hall tried to defuse the atmosphere but finally led the band off
stage in mid-number to escape the volleys of beer cans and spit.

80 10 10b # c.69

1955

In 1950 the Shelford scout troop and cub pack reopened after a break for the war
years but had nowhere to meet. The Guides and Brownies had kept going in a barn
which was too small. So they decided to pool their resources to erect a joint HQ.
The prospect of dozens of children making merry in their vicinity appalled some
local residents but Mr Williams of ‘Southernwood’ offered the use of his garden
where a hut was erected. Now it needs repair and a fund has been opened

55 10 15a

1930

Herbert Robinson, the motor engineer told the court he had purchased the leasehold
of ‘The Fountain’ pub, Regent Street, Cambridge from the Star Brewery intending to
add the site to his business premises. He granted the lease to a landlord for five
years with a provision that he could regain possession earlier and now wanted it
back

30 10 23a-c # c.27.4

1905

Because a hundred years ago Horatio Nelson won the Battle of Trafalgar, the youths
of Cambridge, University and town, united in a ‘rag’ in which the destruction of
property was a necessary element. Two constables were mauled by the mob, one at the
Parsonage Street fire and the other at the Park Parade fire, but are little the
worse for the rough handling they received. A tram was stormed by a large number of
undergraduates; dozens of them clambered on to the vehicle until it was a black
mass of struggling beings. But despite the heavy load the horse managed to crawl
along.

05 10 23b-c # c.02 # c.36.9

Wednesday 26th October

1980

Harston church is to get a new weather vane, six months after its old one
collapsed. The new one, in the shape of a heron, is made of aluminium on a wrought-
iron frame and will stand on the little turret of the church. It was designed by
the vicar’s wife, Marian Allen, a professional artist, and was made by a craftsman
near Wimpole. There was no particular reason for choosing a heron other that there
were several of them on the river.

80 10 15

1955

The condition of the huts on Donkey common has steadily deteriorated and they
should only be let to families requiring emergency accommodation who can be
rehoused by September 1957. Some are so bad they will have to be closed before that
and when the worst of them become vacant they should not be re-let. The Council
should purchase 50 premises due for demolition and carry out minimum repairs to
allow them to be occupied temporarily.

55 10 15b # c.23 # c.32.3

1930

The Prince of Wales set the seal of Royal approval upon an ambitious scheme of
rural education which has attracted world-wide attention when he opened Sawston
Village College. Should it prove a success it will prove a pattern for a chain of
similar colleges not only for the rest of this county but for vast Dominions beyond
the seas. The Prince received a most enthusiastic reception. The village was gay
with bunting and the inhabitants turned out en masse to wave and cheer.

30 12 30a-c

1905

Having been closed for a week when it was handed over to the care of the carpenter,
the Hippodrome, on Newmarket Road Cambridge reopened. The performances will now be
carried out on the music hall principles, the old form of ring having been
dispensed with and a large and spacious stage erected with all the necessary
scenery and curtains. There will be one performance nightly with half-prices after
nine o’clock. The Carr Brothers kept the house in a constant state of applause by
their wonderful manipulation of a large inflated ball

05 10 24 # c.76

Thursday 27th October

1980

Emilie Lewis established the Mackenzie School of Music and Dramatic Art in
Cambridge in 1923 and many students benefited from her training, winning prizes at
local festivals. From it developed the Mackenzie Society with weekly concerts to
give young students experience of performing to a live audience. Both organisations
continue to flourish in the hands of her former students. Now a subscription had
been started for a cup to be awarded at the Cambridge Festival reflecting the high
standard Emilie herself set in her professional life.

80 10 17 # c.69

1955

Fulbourn has been developed as far as it can be and if a further 500 houses are put
there it will be tighter still. It was never intended that we should be packed
together like sardines in the way planners are intending today, an inquiry was
told. “If we carry out this scheme of infilling we shall never be able to built a
house without it overlooks a neighbour’s kitchen or the washing on the line”, Mr
W.J. Taylor complained.

55 10 27

1930

A labourer engaged in excavation work at the new Dorothy Café was killed, and
another seriously injured. The men, who were employed by Coulson and Sons, were
clearing the old brickwork and masonry under Hobson’s Passage when a considerable
mass of brickwork gave way without warning and they were smothered in the ruins.
The ambulance was sent for and a crowd quickly gathered. The police had some
difficulty in controlling the traffic, owing to its density at one time.

30 10 30d.# c.27.4

1905

The licensee of the Cambridge Hippodrome made a claim for breach of contract
against Charles Prinz, described as ‘the most wonderful and sensational lion tamer
on earth’. He had agreed to perform for a week at a salary of £40 but had taken
another engagement at the Olympia, Liverpool. As a result their takings had fallen
to £30, compared to £112 the week before. The Hippodrome would seat about 2,000
people and £25 had been taken one evening. The judge said that in his undergraduate
days the University would not allow a theatre to pollute the atmosphere. They had
changed their views since then.

05 10 25 # c.76
Friday 28th October

1980

Until recently the Star pub in Waterbeach was famous for its menagerie. Now the
landlord has become caretaker at the village school and has taken some of his
animals with him. A miniature compound has been built to cater for his Shetland
pony, two goats, rabbits and a number of exotic birds. But he has yet to find room
for a heavy horse and cart. The children are delighted, many haven’t seen a goat
close up before.

80 10 21

1955

Cambridge Reference Library is normally well used – on average over 200 people each
day consult material. But last week has seen it fuller than normal; additional
tables and chairs have been brought in and frequently all are taken. This is
because the Reading Room is being divided to create a new Junior Library. A number
of the more serious periodicals will be transferred to the Reference Library where
book cases will be removed to make more space.

55 10 31 # c.77.4

1930

A fire broke out at Reed Farm, Babraham; a dozen stacks and several cottages were
threatened by the flames. The big fire engine arrived but found that the nearest
place from which water could be obtained was about a mile away. So the small Dennis
engine was sent for and numerous small water tanks fed it with supplies. But water
was so scarce that only the small hose could be used and the firemen had to
concentrate on saving the stacks and cottages close by.

30 10 30e

1905

Cambridge councillors discussed an alternative route from Madingley Road to the

Cattle Market by constructing a road from Barton Road over the river by Newnham
Mill Pit and along Coe Fen Lane to Trumpington Road. Two bridges would have to be
erected and the Leys School would give up a strip of land. But there was no
argument in favour of making a winding lane into a straight road unless it was for
traffic. It was a bad system to introduce a big scheme piecemeal and commit the
council first by one step and then another.

05 10 26b # c.32.3 # c.49.62

Looking Back : October 2005.

Copied stories that were not used in ‘Looking Back’ columns

1930

Solving a mystery p mystery photo competition cartoon – 30 10 04b # c.65.5

Tramp tries to steal money Cambridge man –30 10 09

Before the days of Sawston college – schools # c.36.6 – 30 10 09b-c

Altering the Backs – straightening road – photo – 30 10 14 # c.49.62 # c.32.3

Changing backs – removing elms, Queens Road with steam roller - 30 10 16b # c.18

1955

Clara Lines travelled by train to Chivers – 55 10 07

Baby’s body in air raid shelter, Newmarket - 55 10 12a – WOMEN

Shippea Hill football treasurer sent to prison – 55 10 12c

1980

police scrapbooks discovered – 80 10 13

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 31st October

1980

A 600-year-old granary is being rebuilt at Wandlebury by the Cambridge Preservation

Society. It formed part of the Tadlow Towers estate. The owner sought permission to
demolish it when it fell into a dilapidated state but instead it was carefully
dismantled timber by timber and put into store for eight years until the Society
could afford to rebuild it. Experts believe it may date from the 14th century and
is a unique survival in the area.

80 10 23

1955

Parking difficulties in the centre of Cambridge have begun to drive shoppers

elsewhere. One councillor said: “I am always hearing people complain that they
cannot find room to park. The re-development of the Lion Yard car park is probably
the most important thing that can possibly be done, otherwise shopkeepers will
suffer. My wife now shops in St Neots where she can park easily, another friend
goes to Saffron Walden.”

55 10 31a #

1930

The new municipal year in Cambridge has opened with a note of sorrow. Upon
successive days the hand of death has removed Alderman J.W. Purvis, the Deputy
Mayor, and Alderman A.J. Lyon, the County Coroner. Both University and Town have
suffered. Alderman Purvis was a University lecturer, an authority on food hygiene
and Alderman Lyon a townsman who had attained considerable prominence as a
solicitor. With the great increase in the number of road accidents in recent years
his duties as coroner grew considerably heavier, but he always made a point of
attending if he possibly could.

30 11 03-a

1905
A society for the promotion of the international language, Esperanto, in the
University and Town of Cambridge was formed at a meeting held in the residence of
Dr George Cunningham. It was of the highest importance to the University and two of
their most advanced members should start classes for teaching the language. Letters
of support were read from Alex Wood and the Rev Rust of Soham

05 10 26a

Tuesday 1st November

1980

There was an undignified scramble for seats on the coaches booked by Cambridge
Against Missile Bases to take them to the massive CND rally at Hyde Park. A further
150 students left on the Cambridge Peace Action coaches. The decision to base
cruise missiles at Molesworth had seen a resurgence of interest in nuclear arms
control and several people from Needingworth marched under a ‘Hunts Against the
Missiles’ banner. “It is unlikely to have much influence on the present
government”, said a member of Cambridge Peace Action, “but the Labour Party has
adopted a disarmament policy and may do something when they’re in power”

80 10 27 # c.45.8

1955

She was only about eight but she looked far more confident than many of the car
drivers who edged their way out of Downing Street at lunch time. Unescorted she
steered her conveyance neatly through the traffic and with a satisfied shake of her
head rode off on her little black pond down St Andrew’s Street. The cars were left
behind at the junction.

55 11 02a

1930

It was with a certain amount of trepidation that I called on the Mistress of Girton
College, Miss E.H. Major, for this little article. “Ten minutes” I said to the
driver of the car that had taken me out. It was two hours before I started on the
return journey. For I had been received by a most sympathetic woman in a room
harmonious, of gracious proportions, with dishes of woodland flowers on the table;
cakes and coffee and cigarettes had been offered to me in friendliness. We touched
upon everything under the sun, from starvation in Ruthenia to the making of the
college gardens

30 11 04a # c.44.5

1905

An exhibition of watercolour sketches of Grantchester by Mr Payne Garnett, art

master of the Leys School is being held at the well-lighted galleries of Crisp and
Co., King’s Parade. Many of the sketches are of exceedingly high artistic merit
including his studies of the river by moonlight. Already most of the pictures have
been bespoken.

05 10 28a # c.64
Wednesday 2nd November

1980

The Sunday morning, or should it be mourning, footballers of Cambridge club

Springbox use a shiny black hearse as their club coach to matches. The driver
dresses appropriately in a black top hat. The manager, Alan Doyle, refuses to climb
aboard: “I only want one ride in a thing like that”, he says. The club have not
lost since he took charge last December and say they are out to bury the opposition

80 11 03

1955

Ida Maxwell, well-known for her stage, film and photographic work, is to open a
Mannequin Academy at Overstream House, Cambridge. The course will last 12 weeks and
include tuition in etiquette, make-up, hairstyles and general appearance. Students
who pass an examination will receive a certificate to say they are a professional
model which will help them find jobs in London. The course is also suitable for
mature women wanting to acquire a well-groomed appearance for social or business
reasons.

55 11 02b # WOMEN

1930

In a quiet street in Cambridge, a very charming old lady celebrates her 100th
birthday. She is Mrs Howes, widow of the late John Howes head of the bicycle firm
in Regent Street. She comes of a long-lived family. She was born in Coronation
Street. Her father, John Galley, a reader at the Pitt Press, lived to the age of 86
and her mother to 80. She has still living four sons and three daughters, 23
grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Her memory is still good and she has
vivid memories of her girlhood. She was present at the dinner on Parker’s Piece to
celebrate Queen Victoria’s coronation, when her father was one of the carvers.

30 11 04b # WOMEN

1905

Morning letters are being delivered much earlier than formerly. The gradual growth
of Cambridge suburbs had lengthened the postman’s walks until it was almost
impossible to get out the deliveries in the time prescribed. Now the number
uniformed letter carriers has been increased from 98 to 110 with more men on each
of the seven daily delivery rounds. The number of collections has also increased
with six tricycle carriers appointed.

05 10 28b # c.27.7

Thursday 3rd November

1980

Histon parish council opposed plans for an 18-hole pitch and putt golf course on
land off Gunn’s Lane approached by a bridleway. They fear it would not be used by
village youngsters but attract outside golfers. But they did back a scheme for a
day centre for the elderly to be run in the church hall and supported Lumacard, a
bright-red card which elderly people can place in their windows to summon help in
an emergency

80 11 04

1955

A roll of honour compiled in memory of the citizens of Cambridge who lost their
lives in the last war will be unveiled in the Guildhall. It is written on two skins
of vellum with raised gold lettering and also commemorates the Women’s Forces and
all the civilian casualties. It was executed by Miss G. Horsley, a designer at the
Technical College and School and is a poignant reminder of how modern wars have
involved the very homes of the people. The first name is a woman’s and the names of
children killed in one of the air raids also appear.

55 11 02c # c.45.7

1930

Little Thetford was the scene of a big blaze, a large six-roomed thatched house
built in 1300 being totally destroyed. After the old roof dropped the four main
walls were a roaring furnace and the blazing embers carried long distances. Soon
nothing was left but burning beams and scorched walls which had evidently been
built of the old Fen mud. But for the efforts of villages similar large thatched
houses nearby would have been involved. The ‘Three Horse Shoes’ public house
opposite was plied with ladders and a chain of buckets formed and water thrown on
the thatched roof to stop a possible outbreak here. The cause is a mystery.
Fireworks were being let off, but not at this end of the village

30 11 06a # c.34.75

1905

Constance Cochrane of the Cambridgeshire Rural Housing Council said that in country
villages there was ‘no room to live’. Fast as the rural population had been
flocking to the towns still faster have their homes been falling into decay,
sometimes at the rate of one a year, and not replaced. We are unable to cater for
local people who wish to stay because there are no homes for them and many cottages
are unfit to live in and certainly cannot cope with people from the towns who are
being encouraged to return to the villages.

05 10 31a-c # c.30

Friday 4th November

1980

Cambridge motorists are constantly knocking down bollards erected in Gwydir and
Hooper Streets as part of a controversial one-way system. Their yo-yo lives mean
that the City Council has had to spend a lot of money restoring them. Now they are
to replace the plastic bollards with stronger ones and add some small gardens and
shrubs. Incidents seem to arise as motorists have difficulty turning at the points
where they have been built

80 11 05

1955

The Cambridge Preservation Society applied to have allotment land it owned beside
the Coton footpath earmarked for housing. But the County Planners said the footpath
was of very great importance to the amenities of Cambridge and they were anxious to
prevent the spread of development. The Society was in it for financial reasons - it
would raise the value of their land to £4,000. The proposal was also opposed by
Coton Parish Council who said there was a waiting list for allotments and it would
prove a hardship for present tenants.

55 11 03

1930

When the Bishop of Ely attended St Peter’s church, Wilburton, to dedicate their new
organ he indulged in some straight speaking. The organ was dedicated to their
former Vicar, Henry Atkinson, killed while performing his duties, but in order to
secure it the parish had neglected urgent repairs to the roof that was in a very
serious condition and could not wait. They had also not subscribed to the diocesan
fund and this was the reason why none of the surrounding clergy was present.

30 11 06c & d

1905

A halt occurred in Newmarket High Street when race traffic was at its height and
Earl Cadogan’s motor brougham was slightly damaged. In slowing up the driver of a
vehicle backed into the motor car, smashing a pane of glass in the side of the
hood. At Soham a horse and cart belonging to a man named Johnson, bolted. He was
hawking vegetables when the animal took fright at a firework exploded by some
children. It was brought to a standstill by Mr Saberton the butcher but one of the
shafts of the cart was broken.

05 11 02

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 7th November

1980

A Sunday market set up in a Cottenham field took residents, local traders and
councillors completely by surprise. Now written warnings have been sent to the
people involved because they broke Sunday trading and food hygiene regulations.
There is nothing the council can do under planning regulations but it might be
stopped on the grounds of misuse of land.

80 10 07a

1955

Tenants of council houses at Westmoor Common, Little Downham, have to look for rat
holes to pour waste water in because they have no sink or drains of any
description. All that was needed were a few glazed pipes as there was a septic
tank. But there was no way of installing them without a comprehensive scheme which
would be too expensive. Seven years ago a similar scheme was proposed at Lt
Thetford but nothing had been done there either. It was wrong that there were
council houses without sinks when they were spending money on modern houses.

55 11 04-a # c.21.1

1930
Cambridge police had cold feet with waiting for something to turn up in a
temperature several degrees under freezing point. But the dreaded ‘Fifth’, that
traditional battle between University and police failed to explode in the time-
honoured fashion. There was a constant bombardment on the outskirts of town and
some spasmodic firework throwing on the market where smoke screens were used to
some effect. Using the cloud as cover two lamps were extinguished under the very
nose of a sergeant. There were a few arrests but no helmets were knocked off.

30 11 06b # c.36.9

1905

It is a recognised custom in Cambridge, which no amount of protest seems able to

abolish, to make the celebration of the Fifth the occasion for a rag. This year it
fell on a Sunday but this did not deter them and a huge bonfire was started on
Midsummer Common. The chief sufferer was G.P. Hawkins whose premises in Parsonage
Street was attacked during the Nelson rag and on Saturday another unsuccessful
assault was made. But on Sunday several hundred undergraduates returned, smashed
the fence and seized egg cases, barrels and a tarpaulin to add to the flames.

05 11 06b # c.36.9

Tuesday 8th November

1980

An exclusive university dining club may open its doors to the public. The Pitt Club
is a miniature men-only London club where prospective members are vetted carefully
and anyone without a public school education is likely to be black-balled. It also
houses the Hawks Club for university sporting Blues. But it is no longer making
money and is looking for tenants to share the former Turkish bath house in Jesus
Lane. Strudels, one of the restaurants in the Kite facing eviction, is amongst a
number to express an interest.

80 11 08 # c.36.9 # c.27.4

1955

In the dark days of the last war Ely Cathedral stood out as a prominent landmark
for returning bombers. Thus it was fitting that it should be chosen as the place
for a memorial window to remember the 19,000 airmen who did not come back. High-
ranking officers and some 2,000 relatives of the fallen joined in the commemoration
during which four rolls of honour containing the names of fallen aircrew, many of
them New Zealanders, were presented for preservation.

55 11 07a

1930

Mrs Emma Gunton is celebrating her 100th birthday; she is the second Cambridge lady
this week to reach this wonderful age. She is remarkable: she walks without
assistance, has her own teeth and eats her meals regularly. She has never had an
illness and only required the attention of a doctor on one occasion she met with an
accident. Born at Bottisham she possesses a fine memory and can recall the coming
of railway trains.

30 11 07 # c.31

1905

The information that a number of Varsity and Town roughs broke into Mr Hawkins’
premises on Sunday night and stole and destroyed property to the value of £20 will
surprise even Cambridge people. To disturb the peace of a Sabbath by forcibly
entering a tradesman’s premises and to burn the stolen material in a public place
is just as truly a robbery as if the marauders had broken into the Guildhall and
taken £20 from the safe. We trust the University authorities will look facts in the
face and that such activities will be promptly scotched.

05 11 06a-d # c.36.9

Wednesday 9th November

1980

Landbeach church organ may have been damaged by rain which seeped through the
vestry roof. It does not sound as good as it once did. The rector says they have no
idea what it might cost to repair but it would be beyond the church’s resources to
replace it. Restoration work to the roof is already costing £80,000 as woodworm had
eaten into the timbers.

80 11 11a

1955

Freak storms were reported in various parts of the county with thunder, lightning
and huge hailstones. Mrs Sadler of Whittlesford reported that hailstones the size
of walnuts fell in the village and there was hardly a house without windows broken.
At Burwell hailstones larger than billiard balls shattered windows with 28 panes of
glass broken in one house.

55 11 07b # c.12

1930

Councillors questioned whether it was desirable to raise the standards of country

roads: “we do not want to make them into racking tracks; we want decent country
roads and nothing more”. It did not matter if a road was rather bumpy for a car
going on 50 mph. If the best expenditure was to maintain them in perfect condition
for bus and lorries could not such traffic be restricted to certain roads which
would be kept at a higher standard? As for so-called improvements in the rounding
off of corners – well the easier you make it for the motorist the faster they will
go around.

30 11 10 # c.44.65

1905

An inquest was held at the Mill House Hinxton into the death of a four-year-old
boy. His father said he was at the top of the mill when he heard a noise and
thought something had gone through the stones. When he went down to the mill-wheel
shed he saw the lad horribly mutilated and quite dead. He had probably been killed
between the spoke and the brick pillar where the wheel bearings rested.

05 11 07 # WATERMILL

Thursday 10th November

1980

The much-disputed future of the Kite area of Cambridge may be thrown back into the
melting pot yet again. The city council’s Labour administration is becoming
increasingly convinced that the present development plan, which it has vigorously
opposed from the outset, will not now go ahead because of the national economic
situation. So they are to start looking at alternative developments. Their
partners, Grosvenor Estates, have until the end of the year to find a taker for the
major store and say that Debenhams is interested.

80 11 11b

1955

A roll of honour to the memory of the men and women from Cambridge who lost their
lives in the last war was unveiled at the Guildhall. It is five feet high with an
heraldic illuminated heading and raised gold lettering and is a companion to the
one already erected to those killed in the first world war. After the ceremony the
Mayor processed to Great St Mary’s which was packed to capacity with townsfolk,
University and other organisations who had gathered to pay homage to the dead.

55 11 07c # c.45.7

1930

Cambridge has lost one of its best-known figures by the passing of Mr W.G.
Robinson, keeper of the Guildhall. He had been chosen as town crier from among over
200 applicants and carried out his duties with characteristic efficiency before
becoming keeper in succession to Mr Jacobs. He had been a boxer of some prowess in
his younger days and was a member of the old Volunteer Fire Brigade.

30 11 10a

1905

Dartigan, the only exponent of the daring and sensational acts of cycling around a
loop heads the bill at the Auckland Road Hippodrome. The wonderful sight of a
cyclist careering head downwards along the inverted part of the track aroused a
storm of applause. Since he began his dangerous occupation he has experienced many
accidents. Once at Yarmouth he fell from the top of the loop and his head crashed
through the track with the result that his jaw and nose were broken and his head so
severely injured that he sustained concussion of the brain.

05 11 07a # c.38 : cycling

Friday 11th November

1980

The siting of Cruise missiles at Molesworth has unexpectedly been put back years
and it will now be 1988 before the four flights of missiles are deployed at the
disused airfield. John Major, MP, said the priority was negotiating the need to
have Cruise missiles at all. The Defence Secretary, Francis Pym, is aware that
local people are keen to have as much of the land returned to farming but this
depends on American training requirements

80 11 12a

1955

Five thatched cottages at View Road, Boxworth were badly damaged by fire believed
to have been caused by lightning. The whole of the roof was destroyed and the
interior of two badly damaged. An 82-year-old woman was hit by a piece of falling
timber but the occupants left safely and most of the furniture was saved. The
three families who occupied the cottages were boarded into the village old school,
the village hall and with neighbours.

55 11 07d

1930

It was in the state of mind anticipating moral extinction that I tapped on the door
of the portress at Newnham College and asked if I could see the Principal’s
secretary. Within five minutes Miss Strachey had herself received me. Here was no
austere ‘school marm’ but a charming, well-dressed, quite feminine woman of the
world, with a sense of humour and the blessed gift of putting nervous people at
their ease. She is a great educationalist but also a most charming and modest lady

30 11 11a # c.44.5

1905

The new scheme of the Charity Commissioners relating to the Swaffham Bulbeck Poor’s
Fen has met with disfavour with inhabitants. Eight of them drove forty head of
cattle off the Fen, which had been let by the Trustees under the new scheme. The
first scheme was that the land should be laid out in allotments or garden lands but
it was two miles from the village and inconvenient. There were already 114
allotments in the parish of which 20 were not let.

05 11 07b & c # c.32.9

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 14th November

1980

Two Cambridge language schools are up for sale. The New School of English, founded
by John Barnes in 1962, is being sold because of his imminent retirement and the
Jarrett school, one of the city’s oldest, is also seeking a purchaser. Neither say
Iranian crisis which is severely restricting the number of students has been a
contributory factor

80 11 12b # c.36.52
1955

Alderman F.M. Warren, a member of St Ives Borough Council for 51 years and twice
mayor has announced his retirement at the age of 85. He would like to see the
council transform the inadequate sewage system as they cannot increase the number
of houses without adequate drainage and improve the drainage system to get rid of
the danger of floods. They should recondition the old bathing place and provide a
sale ring for tuberculosis tested cattle at the market. Council house rents would
be a problem but he was sure tenants do not want to live on subsidies provided by
the rest of us.

55 11 11 & a

1930

Reverently Cambridge stood and remembered its dead. The firing of the maroon was
the signal for silence. Immediately life stood still, pedestrians stopped dead in
their tracks and in homes, offices and workshops men and women stood to attention.
But in one part of town their silence was jarred by the thoughtlessness of a motor
driver who did not stop.

30 11 11b-d

1905

A new branch of the Union of London and Smith’s Bank has opened in St John’s
Street. They have 150 other branches and a subscribed capital of £23 million. This
makes the fifth banking institution in Cambridge, the other being Barclay’s,
Capital and Counties’, Lloyds and the London and County. It includes almost the
cream of the important joint stock banking concerns

05 11 03b # c.32.8

Tuesday 15th November

1980

The village of Barley was the birthplace of the second mayor of New York, Andrew
Willitt who lived near the old town house which was built in 1526. The villagers
have been working hard to renovate the ground floor section, known as the
Undercroft, to be used as a community centre. Now they have invited the present
mayor to reopen it and think they could raise enough money to pay for his fare from
America

80 11 12c

1955

Dr Billy Graham said his Cambridge mission had been one of the most rewarding of
his life. It had won people to Christ, got the University talking about religion
and started a revival among Christians. Every available inch of space in Gt St
Mary’s was filled and many had to be re-directed to Holy Trinity where the service
was being relayed. It also went to the universities of Aberdeen, Durham, Manchester
and four others. Now he has started his journey back to America

55 11 14 # c.83
1930

Three Somersham boys confessed to stealing cigarettes from a machine in the High
Street by means of brass buttons beaten and filed to the size of a sixpence. After
a packet of Players had been taken in this way, other packets were marked and
eventually made detection possible. One lad was told he had been ‘sailing very
close to the wind’ and was placed on probation

30 11 12

1905

The death has occurred in Australia of Councillor William Beales, only brother of
Robert Beales, tailor of Sturton Street, Cambridge. He was one of the fist settlers
in Geelong, Victoria and the Government presented him with a gold medal and piece
of land called Beales’ Hill. His funeral was one of the most impressive spectacles
witnessed for some years with a procession headed by the Artillery Band and the
steam fire engine served the purpose of a hearse.

05 11 04a # EMIGRATION

Wednesday 16th November

1980

Letting university rooms and facilities during the vacation has grown from a
profitable sideline into a virtual necessity. Next year it will bring in £2 million
[TWO MILLION POUNDS] to colleges such as Robinson which was designed with
conferences in mind. Ppreviously colleges would send their staff away to the coast
during the vacations where they would work in hotels but now they keep them on to
help with corporate catering. At prices averaging £16 a day there is a great demand
for the 2,500 beds the colleges can muster either in the historic beauty of King’s
or the modern facilities of Churchill

80 11 12d # c.27.9

1955

The G.P.O. has connected over 6,300 new telephones in the Cambridge area during the
past year. Although this is a record achievement the demand for new connections has
also exceeded all previous figures. Seven new major exchanges and 30 minor building
extensions are planned. During the past year the called handled each day by the
operators has approached half a million

55 12 12b-c # c.27.7

1930

Great anxiety is being felt by Cambridge’s 2,000 railway employees over the
Companies drastic proposals on rates of pay and conditions of service. The tobacco
and other luxury trades were affected at the time they accepted a reduction in
wages to ease the companies’ financial difficulties temporarily but this would have
a serious impact on the spending power of a large number of relatively high-
salaried men. Coming at a time when trade enterprise in Cambridge is approaching
its zenith and the University is being appealed to for commercial support the
prospects may be regarded with concern.

30 11 14 # c.26.2 # c.32.1
1905

Justices awarded compensation under the scheme for reducing the number of public
houses. They included the Hoops pubs in Kneesworth, Melbourn and Steeple Morden,
the Sir Harry Smith at Swavesey and the Ram’s Head at Swaffham Bulbeck. In
Oakington The Windmill, King’s Head and Plough and Harrow were closed. But the
closure of the ‘Wait for the Bus’ at Bottisham was contested

others Rams Head, Swaffham Bulbeck; Swaffham Prior: White Hart; Swavesey: Railroad,
Bird in Hand; Cottenham: Windmill; Dry Drayton: Rose and Crown
05 11 04b-d # c.27.4

Thursday 17th November

1980

The Newmarket Variety Club opened last December in a blaze of publicity promising a
feast of top-class entertainment but closed five weeks later for extensive
alterations and by the end of March was insolvent with debts of £170,000. It has
now been sold by auction for £73,000. Also under the hammer was the town’s old
public library in Fitzroy Street. It was bought for £17,500 by a property developer
who said he had never stepped inside it but thought it was cheap.

80 11 12e

1955

A Vampire jet from RAF Oakington skimmed over Rampton before crash-landing in a
field. The pilot managed to miss council houses and touched down, bouncing over and
ditch and hedge before coming to rest in an orchard. Several villagers did not hear
any explosion and only realised a plane had crashed when the saw the flames.

55 11 15 # c.26.1

1930

Messrs Windover’s disused motor carriage works in George Street, Huntingdon have
been sold. For years the firm employed hundreds of skilled workers until they
acquired more extensive works in London. It was a sad sight to see the great works
standing idle but now Chivers are to establish a factory for canning vegetables,
the most up-to-date of its kind in the country. Already local vegetable growers are
alive to the fact that a regular output for their produce will be available close
at hand.

30 11 15 # c.26.48

1905

Sir - On 1st March 1904 a sergeant of the Metropolitan Police, sent to Cambridge on
the occasion of the King’s visit, was violently assaulted and kicked by an
undergraduate. After six months’ illness, during which his pay amounting to £54 was
paid by the Borough of Cambridge, he was pensioned off as unfit for service. On 5th
November 1904 a constable, having taken one undergraduate into custody, was
brutally attacked by others and was left insensible. He has been on the sick list
ever since and pensioned off. All members of the University should co-operate to
prevent such scenes of riot and disorder - H.M. Taylor, Trinity College.

05 11 09 # c.34.6 # c.36.9

Friday 18th November

1980

The Chilean Ambassador was forced to clamber to safety across the rooftops of St
John’s College after demonstrators burst into the locked room in which he was
addressing a private meeting of the Monday Club, a right-wing undergraduate
society. He was ushered along a narrow ledge and through another window into a
don’s room while other opponents of the Chilean regime chanted and jeered from the
courtyard below. He was unable to leave the college until police arrived to escort
him away.

80 11 13a # c.36.9

1955

An Agricultural Land Tribunal was told that land at Drages Farm, Woodfen,
Littleport was full of weeds and crops were poor and light; thorn hedges were
overgrown and fences non-existent. No drainage work had been done and the land was
waterlogged. The buildings were in a very bad state of repair and a cottage was
unsuitable for a worker to live in. But the buildings were just as bad in 1935 and
were ready for demolition then, crops had been drilled late because of the weather
and gave a fair return in the circumstances.

55 11 16-c # c.22

1930

Miss M. Allan, principal of Homerton College is a pioneer of a radical method of

training teachers for elementary schools. She came to Cambridge in 1903 and her aim
is to combine academic and psychological learning, the bodies of her students are
developed as well as their minds and music, art, the drama as well as science and
philosophy are contained in the curriculum. She may, indeed must, in so large a
community rule sometimes with a hand not always gloved with velvet but the softness
of understanding is ever present and she has retained much of the spirit of youth

30 11 18a # c.44.5 #WOMEN

1905

It is almost incredible that any undergraduate should so far demean himself as to

treat a policeman with the blackguard violence of a hooligan. If we have hitherto
been inclined to take a lenient view of the occasional destruction of property it
was because we felt sure the grosser acts were the work of town loafers who were
encouraged by thoughtless undergraduates. But those who took part in gutting a shop
should suffer the legal penalty and not be saved from imprisonment by University
authorities. – Cambridge Review

05 11 09a # c.36.9 # c.34.6

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 21st November

1980

The effect of sand-blasting masonry is dramatic; a building which has faded into
drab insignificance under decades of dirt reveals subtle details of a mason’s art.
Take the Whim in Trinity Street, Cambridge. Cleaning has revealed a beautiful
mellow honey-coloured stone dressed decorative carving work and topped by a turret
that wouldn’t look amiss on a fairy-tale castle. It has been treated with a
colourless silicone wash to make it water repellent while still allowing it to
breathe. This makes it self-cleaning.

80 11 13b

1955
Cambridge Boys Club in Wellington Street is meeting a real need since it opened six
years ago. Councillor Burkitt said the first time he went there the noise was
terrific, there was not a single pane left unbroken and the club was very
disorderly. Now it was well-run and had established a tradition of decent behaviour
and loyalty; the boys took pride in making it a credit to the community

55 11 17a # c.37.9

1930
The old-established Sun Brewery in the High Street at March has been sold to Greene
King. It was established in 1800 by Ambrose Ogden and continued in his family. It
includes some 40 licensed houses in various villages. The brewing operations in
March will shortly cease and the brewery will be dismantled with the premises
becoming a depot.

30 11 21 # c.27.4

1905

One does not associate Sidney Sussex College with the rowdyism that is rampant in
Cambridge. Yet on Saturday night the porter found the door of his lodge refused to
open: it had been securely screwed up and he was a prisoner. After a troubled night
he was aroused by the bedmakers’ loud ringing at the gate and saw there was no
option but to smash the window and escape through the jagged aperture to admit the
waiting and wrathful ‘bedders’.

05 11 11a # c.36.9

Tuesday 22nd November

1980

A painting by a Flemish artist in 1562 may be sold to provide cash for much-needed
repairs at Landbeach church. A similar work of art made £14,000 but this one is not
in good condition. ‘The Adoration of the Shepherds’ is painted on wooden panels
which have split and the original surface is damaged. It can never be hung in the
church as it would deteriorate in the damp conditions and could be vandalised so it
is in storage at the Fitzwilliam Museum

80 11 14a
1955

Local councillors were told that in terms of houses and jobs the only hope for
thousands Londoners was to leave for localities beyond the green belt. This could
be advantageous to county towns as well as the families and industries which moved
out. Essex County Council had already helped a great deal and when they had solved
their own internal overspill problems they would see what might be done to assist
still further.

55 11 19

1930

A fire broke out at Barley in a shed which contained an oil van and tank containing
about 200 gallons of paraffin. The van belonged to Mr Robert Brown, oil and
hardware merchant of Cambridge; the owner had started the engine and gone to fetch
some water for the radiator. On returning he found the whole enveloped in flames.
The tap at the rear of the van came off and a jet of flames 30 feet long shot out
across the yard, igniting a pig sty. If the Fire Brigade had pumped water on the
fire it would have carried the burning oil along the High Street

30 11 18b

1905

Newmarket possesses two fire brigades: the Volunteer and the Jockey Club Owners and
Trainers. Both have separate stations. The Volunteer possesses an engine but it is
in very bad condition, the parts which should be bright being thickly encrusted
with rust. The Jockey Club has a more up-to-date engine which is in a neglected
state but has not gone to rack and ruin to the same extent, though practically the
whole of the hose is absolutely useless.

05 11 11b-d # c.34.75

Wednesday 23rd November

1980

Over 2,000 people are waiting for a council house in Cambridge with 900
applications this year. New legislation enabling tenants to buy their properties at
discount has also caused problems as the Government has banned spending on new
building. One way to house more is to reduce the time between a house being vacated
and the new occupant being allowed in. But the council often has to call in
specialists in dry rot or roofing. Unimproved terrace housing is very expensive
costing twice that in Peterborough

80 11 14b # c.23

1955

The farmworkers’ case for a £7 [SEVEN POUND] a week minimum wage was irrefutable, a
trade union official said. A number of influential farmers were saying it should
not be opposed. If the present drift from the land continued – 25,00 workers had
been lost in the last year – there would soon not be enough to properly manage the
farms. It is reaching a critical point when the deficiency cannot be made up by the
ever-increasing use of machines. There are now more power units on farms than there
are men and women to work them.

55 11 19a # c.22

1930

Cambridge Co-operative Society opened a new bakery in Sleaford Street equipped with
the most modern machinery. 500 sacks of flour a week arrive from their own private
railway siding close by. They are lifted to the third floor and the flour passes
through a series of automatic machines which mix and knead it into dough that is
baked in steam-heated ovens. The confectionery department has a wonderful machine
turning out a wide range of cake mixtures

30 11 22a-c # c.27

1905

The Cambridge Hippodrome has secured the services of Alec Bain, one of the best-
known wrestlers in the country. He offers £20 to any man he fails to defeat in 15
minutes or £50 to anyone who defeats him. His opponent in a ‘catch-as-catch-can’
contest was Mr Davis, a well-known local exponent of physical culture. For eight
minutes he extricated himself from dangerous holds but then was fixed in a ‘hammer-
lock’, a hold he claimed was not allowed as it was very dangerous. But the
referee’s judgement was in favour of Bain.

05 11 14a # c.38

Thursday 24th November

1980

Cambridge University radio doubled its potential audience when it went on the air
in a second college. Now New Hall undergraduates have joined those of Churchill
College in being able to listen to the amateur broadcasters. Home Office
regulations mean they cannot transmit beyond college confines which requires low-
strength transmitters and a forest of aerials over the city skyline – New Hall now
has 12.

80 11 15a # c.27.81

1955

Hauxton, a beautiful village, has been ruined by industry, a parish councillor told
planners. Residents were troubled with noise, dust, smell and smoke from the
Camtiles factory and the increase in the number of workmen had encroached on their
privacy. Many industries had sprung up in the village but there had been no council
houses built since 1938. Thirty years ago the village was wholly agricultural, now
there were only two people employed on the land.
55 11 22a & b

1930

Never did learning of so weighty a nature sit so lightly on so smiling a

personality as Miss Wood, principal of the Cambridge Training College for Post-
graduate Women. She has a formidable list of classical achievements but proves that
learning does not inevitably mean dullness. The College opened in two small
cottages in Newnham Croft in 1885 and has provided hundreds of teachers for
secondary schools in many parts of the Empire.

30 11 25a # c.36.72

1905

Sir – twenty years ago undergraduates at Oxford had two types of ‘rag’. On the 5th
of November we went out and provoked people who didn’t wear caps and gowns to hit
us, and we hit them back. Then whenever our college had done something great in
sport we burnt up a good deal of the college property in the ‘quad’ and paid for it
in out ‘wattels’ at the end of term. But when the authorities thought there had
been too much friendly hitting they used to ‘gate’ their colleges en bloc at nine
o’clock. Now Cambridge undergraduates have discovered a third sort – plundering,
robbing and annoying citizens to get wood for bonfires. This is hooliganism and the
Riot Act might not be out of place – V.S.N.

05 11 15 # c.36.9

Friday 25th November

1980

Little Flo, a huge inflatable blue whale got a shock when she came to Cambridge.
First she almost took off in the wind and then she was too big to go through the
doorway of the Blue Boar Hotel where members of the International Whaling
Commission were meeting. But Flo made an impact as she heaved and tugged at the
guy ropes holding her down; she is a bit battle-scarred but will continue to
demonstrate until whale hunting is banned completely.

80 11 15b

1955

St John Ambulance Brigade has been given a new headquarters building in memory of
the later Rev. Dr T. Fitzwilliam, President of Queens’ college. It is one of the
most marvellous things that has ever happened in the history of the organisation
and when finally opened next year Fitzpatrick House will be something to be proud
of.

55 11 22c & d # c.21.8

1930

Mystery attaches to two outbreaks of fire wich occurred shortly after midnight
within three-quarters of a mile of one another. The first was at Mr Scambler’s
farm, Fen Drayton and caused considerable damage to stacks, barns and outhouses.
Wind carried sparks all over the village and three cottages were cleared. Then
another fire was spotted in four haystacks at Boxworth-End, Swavesey but as they
were well-alight and there were no buildings nearby the brigade kept their efforts
concentrated on the other fire

30 11 25b

1905
Cambridge police have warned of a new fraud; people receive a letter from a man who
claims to have served in the Cuban war and came to England bringing with him a
trunk containing £39,000 which has been deposited in a bank. If the recipient will
send enough money for the writer’s daughter to collect it then she will give them a
quarter of that sum. The swindle has gone on for years; the bait is so plausible
that many simple people fall victim to the fraud.

05 11 16 # c.34.6

November unused stories

1980

Dorothy Grainger – NJ 5th June 1986 – 80 11 01Gra # c.65.5

Cambridge’s muffin man a man of many parts – 80 11 07b # c.39

The black sheep of Wood Ditton – Mark Jeffery transported to Australia in 1850s –
80 11 14 # AUSTRALIA # c.34.6

Viscountess Bury to go up for sale – 80 11 25 # c.26.3

1955

Gas works boundary wall, River Lane, collapses – 55 11 12a # c.24.4

Archibald Rayner, dentist, dies – 55 11 12a # c.21.1

Cam valley water supply scheme – 55 11 17b # c.24.2

Cheveley Park water supply, warning – 55 11 18 # c.24.2

1930

Poppy Day rag – 30 11 11e-g # c.36.9

A.E. Clothier, tailor, death – 30 11 22d # c.27

Co-op Sleaford Street bakery opening – 30 11 24 # c.27.2

1905

King visits Newmarket – his drive – 05 10 31 # c.02

Photographic club – J. Johnson ‘Wilbraham Fen’, Miss Robson Magdalene Street, W.H.
Hayles three-colour printing on paper, photographic survey - 05 11 01 & a & b #
c.65.5

Old Baptist chapel, Old Chesterton new infant’s classroom – 05 11 03a # c.83.05

Rag – great damage to property – 05 11 10 a & b # c.36.9

Newmarket horse and landau smash – 05 11 14b

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 28th November

1980

More than 1,000 demonstrators massed in the centre of Cambridge in protest over
plans to slash county council spending. They chanted and jeered councillors
arriving for a meeting. A macabre scaffold with a schoolboy hanging from it stood
near Shire Hall as part of an attempt to halt cuts of £2 million which would
serious damage services, particularly education. But Francis Pym, MP, said the
world is in a very deep recession and they must make difficult decisions.

80 11 18

1955

A 69-year-old Haddenham man appeared in court charged with wrongly drawing a

retirement pension of £2 7s 6d when he was earning more than 41s a week. He had
been a roadman until March 1954 when he claimed a pension saying he had been born
in 1886. The clerk told him that once a man reached 70 he could work and earn as
much as he liked and could also draw his pension in full: ‘You have to wait until
you are too old to work, and then you can’.

55 11 25

1930

William Henry Williams, the ‘grand old man’ of Liberalism, came to Cambridge in
1880 as agent to the Liberal Association and won the respect of political friend
and foe alike. He played a prominent part in Mr Stanley Buckmaster’s victory over
Almeric Paget in 1905. He was elected to the County Council in 1898 and returned in
1919. Even after his retirement he rendered valuable service and retained a keen
interest in local politics until the end.

30 11 26 # c.33

1905

Mr G. Shepherd, landlord of the Light Dragoon public house in Panton Street,

Cambridge, was awakened by a smell of burning and found a cupboard in the bar
parlour was on fire. He called P.C. Sirett, who was on his way to the police
station, and while another man ran to the Trumpington Street alarm to signal the
fire brigade the landlord and police constable set to work with buckets of water to
extinguish the flames. Meanwhile Captain Greed and twelve firemen with the horsed
fire escape were making all speed to the scene when they were accosted with the
message that the fire was extinguished.

05 11 18a

Tuesday 29th November

1980

The exclusive public school image of Magdalene College has come under attack from
its own dons. The college, once regarded as a finishing school for Etonians, is
suffering from a crisis in its academic performance and has decided to widen its
intake and appeal to comprehensive schools and sixth-form colleges for future
recruits.
80 11 19

1955

Mr Peter Scott, the artist, television personality and authority on bird life, came
to Adventurers’ Fen, Wicken to open an artificially-constructed mere. Years ago the
fens contained many such meres but the requirements of agriculture and drainage had
resulted in their gradual loss. He said ‘When the skies are full of jets and people
are buying plots of land on the moon it is important to preserve ancient fen land’.
The rights of farmers have been preserved and the mere will be a source of pleasure
to bird watchers; hides should be erected and visitors admitted during the summer
season

55 11 29 & a # c.44.2

1930

A drastic reduction in Cambridge to London motor coach prices is the latest phase
in an intensive ‘war’ between the two established ‘outside’ companies and local
proprietors. There were two independent daily services provided by Westminster
Coaches and the ‘Varsity but then A. & H Brown of Lord Astor coaches started
another at four shillings return. They have now allied with Royal Blue and Comfort
coaches to reduce the fare by a shilling and increase services. Westminster and
Varsity are now charging 2s 6d and Cambridge is awaiting the next move with
interest

30 11 28 # c.26.46

1905

Complaints have been received of the methods of certain travelling traders. A

packman knocks at the door and announces himself as the representative of a large
London firm who ‘finding themselves overstocked’ are selling out at under cost
price. He exhibits a sample of towels and quotes a ridiculously low price for them.
Madame does not need to pay until they are delivered. Meanwhile he shows some
extraordinary cheap dress material and persuades her to buy and pay on the spot.
Then she waits patiently for the delivery of the very cheap articles held out as
bait. She waits in vain and finds she has paid fourpence a yard more for her dress
material than in the shops.

05 11 18b # c.27 # WOMEN

Wednesday 30th November

1980

The Duxford Flyer is equally at home on road or rail. With the rail wheels down she
can shunt up to 700 tons of railway wagons at the CIBA-Geigy plastics factory.
Using her road wheels she can potter round at a stately six miles an hour. The
four-tone Unilokomotive is part of a scheme to end their dependence on two sidings
at Great Chesterford and Whittlesford. The new railway leads directly into the
works from the main Cambridge-London railway line and relieves Duxford and Ickleton
of lorry traffic.

80 11 20
1955

Undergraduates going to early lectures in thick fog were surprised to see a Commer
van resting neatly in a large hole in the road in front of King’s College with just
the front two wheels sticking up to greet the morning. A breakdown van managed to
pull the van out to the accompaniment of cheers from student onlookers. Later
workmen were back digging the hole even deeper.

55 11 30

1930

There was a presentation to E.R. Stone who has recently retired as yard master at
the now famous Whitemoor Goods Marshalling Yard, March where the gravity shunting
system was successfully inaugurated during his last two years of office. At first
his first plans had been regarded as revolutionary and a white elephant. But it had
become the outstanding feature of British rail freight working. He was a typical
‘John Bull’ but beneath that bluff exterior was a kind heart

30 12 01b & c # c.26.2

1905

The other evening a large expanse of the north eastern sky was suffered with a rosy
glow which waxed and waned in intensity. The light extended upwards from the
horizon in a broad band and illuminated the edge of a thick bank of cloud towards
the left of the moon. It is believed to be the Aurora Borealis, the famous northern
light, though others felt it was caused by the moon shining through falling snow.

05 11 18c # c.12

Thursday 1st December

1980

Children at Newmarket Upper School now have two cafeterias with a wide menu which
reads like a Wimpy bar. Gone are overcooked vegetables and stolid shepherd’s pie.
Now there is a choice of beefburgers, filled rolls, curry and rice, chips, baked
potatoes and salads. And to follow there is jam and cream scones, chocolate crunch
and fresh fruit. It has doubled the amount of children paying for school food,
though some do fill their plates with chips.

80 11 21

1955

The culvert under the footpath at Caxton End, Bourn, has collapsed and is a danger
to pedestrians. But nobody can decide who is responsible for repairing it. The
Parish Council cannot afford it, Chesterton Council deny its them and the County
Council say it is not an awarded watercourse. Already one child has fallen in and
been washed through when the floods came along and it was time somebody did
something

55 12 01a

1930
The sensational Fen Ditton case when a woman was accused of keeping a disorderly
house will be sent back to be heard by magistrates. Police had kept watch on a room
called the dance hall where it was alleged acts of immorality took place; some
women were held upside down and couples found in very suggestive attitudes. The men
were Cambridge undergraduates and the girls of the working-class type but there was
no evidence of prostitution.

30 12 01d

1905

Large beds of watercress have been laid down at Fowlmere where water is raised by a
dam to spread over the low-lying land. An industry of some dimensions has grown up
and there is a growing demand from London. It is important that the protection of
the law should be extended to those who have embarked capital and employ labour in
this industry. George Hallworth summoned two Cambridge labourers for stealing two
bags of cress. A porter at Foxton station said they had tried to take them into a
carriage but as they were wet he had put them in the brakevan.

05 11 22a & b

Friday 2nd December

1980

Village policemen will soon be back pounding the beat in a bid to stop rising crime
and vandalism. A new scheme involves officers forsaking panda cars for bicycles or
foot patrols. It means a return to the days before 1965 when village patrols were a
normal part of police duties. Now they will get to know residents and work on crime
prevention as well as detection.

80 11 25a

1955

The Woodpecker Café in Butchers Row, Ely, has again been refused a music licence.
It was thought to be too near the Cathedral precincts but the Dean had no
objection. Even on fair days the noise from the amusements was barely audible and
the sound from the music making machine would not be heard by residents. There
would be a volume control that could only be touched by the staff and be kept to a
modified pitch

55 12 02a

1930

A unique village museum has opened at Ashwell started by two young men who
collected curious objects of historic interest. An old building, ‘Ye Olde Towne
House’ was purchased and restored and it is here the curios are to be kept. Sir
William Gentle had paid for the restoration and created trustees to secure it for
the people for ever. It will contain objects illustrating the life of Ashwell from
Saxon times to the present day

30 12 01e & f # c.03

1905
P.C. Broughton, a young constable, was injured during the disgraceful ‘rag’ of
November 5th last year. He was kicked whilst on the ground and injured by an
undergraduate whom it had been impossible to trace. He had been sent to a
Convalescent Home for two months and medical experts called in but had suffered a
spinal injury and would not work again. He had been strong but was now crippled and
doubled up. He was granted a pension equal to the full pay he was receiving at the
time - £1 5s 7d a week.

05 11 23 # c.34.6

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 5th December

1980

The oldest known painting of St Etheldreda, the patron saint of Ely Cathedral, has
been discovered on the wall of Willingham parish church. The 13th-century wall
painting is one of a series of fine murals which are being restored. There are only
two other known paintings of the saint and this predates them by at least a
century. The key to its identification is an unsightly red rash below her face
which represents a tumour she had on her neck

80 11 28a

1955

A portrait of Thomas Hobson, the Cambridge carrier who gave the world his ‘choice’
may find a quiet resting place at the Guildhall, rather than be moved to the Corn
Exchange. But the ageing portraits of other former city dignitaries are never again
to adorn the decorated walls of the Large Room. They are all in need of renovation
and were removed before the Queen’s recent visit. Two may be hung in the members’
retiring room

55 12 02b

1930

Sir Ernest Rutherford, in a special interview, gave the CDN details of the work
which has prompted the Royal Society to present the University of Cambridge with
£15,000 for a new science cryogenetic laboratory. It will support the work of Dr
Peter Kapitza, the young Russian scientist who has been carrying out investigations
at the Cavendish Laboratory into magnetic fields which involves exceedingly low
temperatures.

30 12 03

1905

Two young women were charged with frequenting the streets of Cambridge for the
purpose of prostitution. One explained she was a native of Dundee, living at a
common lodging house; she had been a domestic servant at Newmarket but had to leave
on account of illness. Being destitute she was obliged to ‘go on the streets’ for a
living.
05 11 30a

Tuesday 6th December

1980

A clampdown on the 600 motorists who every day defy traffic bans along King’s
Parade, Cambridge, will involve blocking off the road outside the Senate House to
all traffic except cyclists and emergency vehicles. But it has angered taxi drivers
who say it would make longer journeys. The move is part of a plan to improve city
centre conditions for pedestrians and cyclists.

80 11 26

1955

The first of the new M.G.A. 1½ [ONE-AND-A-HALF] litre sports cars has appeared in
Hallens showrooms, Union Lane. It combines traditional craftsmanship with modern
race-bred performance and in racing trim can reach 112 mph. At a price of £595 plus
£299 purchase tax it is an attractive proposition to any enthusiast and it is
unfortunate that there is a long wait for those who wish to enjoy it.

55 12 03

1930

Sir – we are a locally owned firm with its own garage, employing 57 people and we
try to give a good service. Between October and March each year we lose a
considerable amount of money and rely on summer business to get profits. We do not
discharge staff because we overhaul and repaint our rolling stock. We stick to our
own service and do not interfere with our competitors. But now our rivals have
starting cutting fares. We have got to defend ourselves and the public will benefit
from cheap rides until further notice. –Varsity Express Motors

30 12 06a # c.26.46

1905

Sir – may I raise a feeble voice of protest in regard to street music? Now
examinations are nearing it is heart-breaking to feel the wasted hours slipping
away to the tunes of ‘Navaho’ or the otherwise impressive ‘Hallelujah’ chorus. My
rooms are the scene of furious contests between an organ grinder of foreign
extraction, a body of carol singers and a violinist; the latter must be the envy of
the male cats of the district – ‘Undergrad’

05 11 30b

Wednesday 7th December

1980

The crossing-keeper at Queen Adelaide works 85 hours a week for a wage of £80.78.
He rents a three-bedroomed house from British Rail for £10 a week, pays for light
and heating even when on duty and is not paid an unsocial hours allowance. The
daytime relied crossing keeper is paid more than he is. At night he grabs a few
hours sleep on a couch between the 2.30 train and the next one two hours later.
Then he heads out into the freezing cold to open and shut the gates.
80 11 28b-c

1955

Four modern bungalows have been erected at Castle Camps for use as almshouses. It
is a story of inspiration and generosity which had brought as much happiness to the
four aged people who are now comfortably settled to spend the eventide of their
lives as it has to the benefactor. Tom Haylock of Moat Farm, a Methodist local
preacher and chairman of the parish council built them on a piece of his meadow and
said he had always promised himself to do something for the aged people of the
village

55 12 06

1930

Sir – all Cambridge men will be alarmed at the threat to build an arterial ring
road bisecting Grantchester Meadows. The meadows are owned by King’s College. We
regard their preservation as a trust; we will not build on them, nor near them. We
will do nothing to change their character and refuse to contemplate such a calamity
– The Dean of King’s

1905

The toll gate between Burwell and Fordham was removed and declared open and free
from tolls for ever. Its removal will be a great blessing to everybody who has
occasion to use the road. The price for which the gate has for ever been freed from
tolls is £600; the county and rural councils have contributed £250 each and the
balance raised by Mr Ambrose who declared the gate open

05 12 01a

Thursday 8th December

1980

Soham Comrades’ Band is the new brass band champion of Cambridge, snatching the
title from Littleport. Chatteris Town Band came third. Each had to play a march, a
hymn and one other work. In the contest for small bands Waterbeach took the first
prize, Wicken was second, followed by Cottenham, Haddenham and Burwell. Cottenham
took the Cook trophy for the highest marks in the march with the Ernie Avery
memorial trophy for the highest marks in the hymn going to Waterbeach.

80 12 01

1955

Sir – three years ago the elm on Shelford Recreation Ground where children play and
adults congregate was found to be in a bad condition. There was a large hole, full
of water in the tree trunk and bottles and old cartridge cases taken out. The
council called in a tree expert and decided to have it felled. Had the two heavy
branches which came off a few weeks ago have fallen a foot nearer the bowling green
we might be mourning the loss of the groundsmen. Think what torrent of abuse the
council would have received if somebody had been killed. A few children’s lives are
worth far more than all the elms in Shelford – Horace Reed
55 12 08

1930

Under the Road Traffic Act Cambridgeshire has been allotted one motor car and three
motor cycles to deal with the enormous growth of motor traffic. Such a force should
be recruited from men best suited for the job but there is a limit to the number of
tasks they can perform. This is another example of the Government forcing local
authorities to make the new law work somehow.

30 12 06d

1905

Whittlesford church tower has been restored from a very dilapidated condition
through the generosity of an anonymous benefactor. The work which has included the
restoration of the masonry, the addition of a bell and the re-casting of three
others and the introduction of a new ringing frame and a clock has cost about
£1,600. The restored tower was consecrated by the Bishop of Ely who said much
remained to be done but the work had begun well.

05 12 01b

Friday 9th December

1980

The proposed industrial development of the old Cambridge Cattle Market area is
worrying local residents. The City Council intends letting the site to be turned
into an industrial estate but locals fear that additional traffic would put a
burden on the strained traffic situation and lead to the restriction of parking
along Cherry Hinton Road. This is something to be avoided at all costs.

80 12 02

1955

Mrs Glover lived a full life. She was born in 1875 at Willingham and was entered
for Girton College but instead went to Berlin and studied German and music. She
married Terrot Glover, a Fellow of St Johns College and entertained undergraduates
to large tea parties, as was usual at that time. She helped start the Tipperary
Club for young mothers during the Great War. Later she developed a special
tenderness for the old and forgotten. She also worked with the Cambridge Tapestry
Company and won high praise from Queen Mary. During the war she was a billeting
officer and found room in her own house for many evacuees.

55 12 09b-d

1930

The visit of Jack Hulbert’s popular review carries the mind back to 1913 when he
made his first appearance at the New Theatre in the May Week production ‘Cheer-oh
Cambridge’ of the Footlights Dramatic Club. I remember his sprightly dancing, which
has since developed so successfully. Then in 1921 we had Claude Hulbert making his
first appearance in the Footlights production of ‘What a picnic’
30 12 06e

1905

The Cambridge “Girl’s Realm” Guild was founded in connection with the “Girl’s Realm
Magazine” and members do all they can for the sick by sending toys, picture-books
and garments for distribution among the poor. Any boy can become a ‘squire’ at a
subscription of one shilling. A Factory Girls Home has been built in Kennington
Road, London to assist tired work-girls who would not otherwise gain relief from
the year’s toil

05 12 02a

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 12th December

1980

Some of the best-looking Christmas crackers are produced at the Waterbeach Work
Experience Unit. Crackers have become an established part of the training given to
‘non-academic’ young people in their last year at school who may have special
difficulties in finding a job and adapting to work. More than 1,500 boxes a year
are produced.

80 12 04a

1955

The new extensions to the Paston House School, now called St Mary’s Convent School,
in Bateman Street were dedicated, marking an important milestone in its 50 years’
history. It began in one little house and now had 370 pupils. Speaking of the value
of independent convent schools the Bishop spoke of ‘the unfriendliness of Mr
Butler, who won’t let us build schools as we should like to”. But the religious
orders managed to carry on and there was something about convent schools that make
parent want to send their pupils, although there were good, efficient and free,
schools elsewhere

55 12 12 & 12a # c.36.5

1930

The Home of Mercy in Christchurch Street, Cambridge has been more or less full of
girls, almost all aged between 16 and 20. Seventeen girls had been admitted and ten
provided with outfits and placed in domestic service. Five have been baptised, six
confirmed and three restored to Holy Communion while two girls formerly in the home
have been well married. The chapel had been redecorated and beautified. There were
fewer illegitimate births but the moral standard of the country had broken down and
a very large number of outwardly respectable women were morally corrupt.

30 12 08a-c # c.32.9 # WOMEN

1905
The Cambridge University v Dublin rugby match stopped suddenly and the players
hastily gathered together in a group and remained perfectly still. It seemed a new
way of playing rugby, even less comprehensible that the ways of the New Zealanders.
Then one of the crowd ran out with a lengthy overcoat and out of the circle emerged
the form of a famous three-quarter back, shrouded in the voluminous garment.
Sedately he commenced a journey across to the pavilion, but then he ran and the
secret was revealed – he had rent his football knickers

05 12 02b # c.38 : rugby

Tuesday 13th December

1980

The age of the microchip has taken all of us by surprise but now sons and daughters
crave for the latest computer game, digital watch or radio-controlled car. Since
Tandy came to Cambridge five years ago they have found rapidly-increasing demand in
the home electronics field and have now divided their Emmanuel Street operation
into two shops. One will house a veritable treasure trove of hi-fis, tv games and
intercoms appealing to the young

80 12 04b # c.27.2

1955

Current trends in two-wheeled transport seem to be moving in favour of the motor-

scooter. Now Hallens have opened a new showroom in Fitzroy Street, Cambridge
devoted solely to scooters and ‘mopeds’ (known to the uninitiated as auto-cycles)
which illustrates the increased public demand for this form of transport.

55 12 13 # c.26.48

1930

Today the CDN publishes a 16-page paper for the first time in its 42-years’
history. This is because of the demands on our space by national and local
advertisers for their Christmas shopping announcements and affords evidence of
their confidence of the paper as an advertising medium. There is an enormous
response each day to our Christmas Pages Advertisement Competition.

30 12 12a # c.04

1905

Cambridge Corporation’s new Mill Road storeyard is nearing completion on land

behind the Free Library. Here material for the repair and making of roads is
stored, vehicles housed and mended and appliances for any contingency kept in
readiness. It has a siding to the railway for granite or cement, an open shed for
refuse vehicles and stables together with accommodation for two steam rollers.
There are blacksmiths, carpenters and wheelwright’s shops and a men’s mess room

05 12 09a & b # c.35.7 # c.44.6

Wednesday 14th December

1980
Cambridge’s Mill Road is ideal for bargain-hunting. Inghams has one shop entirely
devoted to carpets and another with furniture and bedding at the least possible
price for top-quality merchandise. The Children’s Shop, situated a few yards from
the Maternity Hospital, caters for the important needs of premature babies.
Easiglaze Windows can show how your new replacement windows could look in your home
– no more choosing from brochures while W.F. Webb is one of the best-known in the
area; they have been supplying customers since the very early days of radio.

80 12 04c # c.44.6

1955

The petrol station of today fills the place held by the blacksmith 50 years ago
argued the company appealed to put up a petrol service station opposite the White
Hart public house, Cambridge Road, Barton. It was of the utmost importance but
small villages could not always afford to have one of their own. But the parish
council objected and the County said it was the wrong place; Haslingfield or
Comberton would be better sites

55 12 14 # c.26.48

1930

There was an exciting scene in the centre of Cambridge at mid-day. Amid cries of
‘Stop, stop’ and the blowing of police whistles, a man made a headlong dash down St
Andrew’s Street. People turned and stared and as a means of stopping him a cycle
was thrown in front of his path. Eventually he was captured and, with a stalwart
policeman on each side, was walked back to the police station. He appeared to be a
young man, smartly dressed in a light coloured suit and grey soft hat. He was
charged with passing counterfeit half-crowns

30 12 12b & 30 12 13 # c.34.6

1905

This distress this winter must be greater than usual; already 28 unemployed men
have been found work at the Botanic Garden for four days a week for which the
receive 10s. About 60 loads of compost have been prepared, leaves raked and much
washing of glass accomplished. One man with heart disease has been found sitting-
down work picking moss for orchid culture. Further men may be employed depending
entirely upon contributions; the curator is willing to receive any sums for the
Winter Employment Fund

05 12 09b # c.32.1

Thursday 15th December

1980

The first 1½ -mile [ONE AND A HALF MILE] section of the dual-carriageway of the
A604 between the Trinity Foot public house and Bar Hill has opened to traffic. It
means less queuing for drivers who have been restricted to single-file traffic and
restricted to 40 mph since work started in April 1979. A further two miles will be
opened between Woolpack Cottage, Galley Hill and Godmanchester will open next week
and there are hopes the whole contract will be completed before May.

80 12 05 #
1955

An 18 1/4 lb [EIGHTEEN-AND-A-QUARTER POUND] female pike was landed from the Ouse
near Over Staunch. It was taken on live bait by Bert Ball of Sandy and broke his
road as it was being landed. When it was deposited on the bank a large eel popped
out of its mouth. It was the largest from this stretch of water for many years,
some say the best since a 20-pounder was landed by Mr Cooke in 1910

55 12 15a # c.38 : fishing

1930

The ‘skeleton’ of the Chesterton vehicular bridge came out of the municipal
cupboard. It had been suggested when Victoria Bridge had been erected but the
council subsequently rejected the proposals. In the meantime a temporary bridge had
been erected at Dant’s Ferry with the intention of moving it towards the Pike and
Eel. Now it will be kept in the present position and lowered to make it easier to
cross with perambulators. But it was a shame to spend £1,600 on a structure which
had not been right when it was put up.

30 12 12c # c.44.7

1905

Last night a man was seen careering around the floor at a Covent Garden Ball in a
suit made of sateen upon which pages of the CDN was printed. It was made by Mr A.W.
Smith of King’s Parade to the order of an old University man. The same trader made
a similar order two years ago but the material was then white. On this occasion it
was pink.

05 12 09c # c.04

Friday 16th December

1980

Cambridge railway commuters said goodbye to their two most popular stewards with
presents and champagne. British Rail is replacing the three buffet cars and
replacing them with micro-buffets and stewards Colin Taylor and Robbie Davidson are
resigning. Simon Spanswick of Newport, who fought to save the service, decorated
the 20-year-old buffet car with black crepe and Ron Knowles of Horseheath produced
a wreath in loving memory. The regulars gathered round the counter and got through
quite a lot of drink.

80 12 06 # c.26.2

1955

Stapleford villagers crowed into the general store to see the ‘door-bell-that-
would-not-stop-ringing’. It began when the storekeeper removed the electric door-
bell and put it in a bucket. He received the shock of his life when it began to
ring and continued for two hours, even though it was not connected to anything.
Soon the store was crowed with sightseers and many views were put forward as to the
cause. The mystery was only solved when a CDN reporter dismantled the bell and
discovered a small battery neatly concealed in a compartment thought to house the
mechanism.
55 12 15a

1930

Miss M.H. Catley, headmistress of the Perse High School for Girls, took her degree
at Oxford and came to Cambridge in 1926. She is with all her heart and all her
desire, a trainer of girls. The keynote to her success is her understanding of
youth – she is herself barely out of this category. She takes full part in sports
and is an enthusiastic Girl Guide. There is still a long vista of years ahead of
her and her success will be reaped when the young girls she is today training have
themselves come to maturity.

30 12 16 # c.36.5

1905

Mr Thomas Day, whose sweetheart, Miss Violet Handscombe, was one of the victims of
the Fen Ditton Red Grind ferry disaster, has died in Addenbrooke's Hospital aged
25. He was with her on the ferry when it upset and they became separated. He
reached the bank, then plunged back into the river and found her, but she later
died. The shock had a detrimental effect on his physical condition and when he was
attacked with illness quickly succumbed. He died of bronchial pneumonia and rupture
of the lungs.

05 12 12 # c.44.7

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 19th December

1980

Cambridgeshire police will lose its cadet force and 35 extra officers it planned to
cope with the increased population after £250,000 was cut from its budget. But this
is half what had first been proposed. A ‘frightening’ number of police officers are
leaving within two years of joining up; although it is a well-paid job young people
today find the night duties and late turns upsetting

80 12 09 # c.34.6

1955

The world-renowned firm of Grays of Cambridge was founded 100 years ago by H.J.
Gray who, with four other brothers, held the racquets championship of the world for
several years. They started as boys in the racquets courts of St John’s college
where they strang the racquet hoops, which led to the founding of the firm years
before the game of lawn tennis started. Afterwards they produced cricket bats.

55 12 16a&b # c.27

1930

Cambridge council’s plans for extending their boundaries were described as

‘arrogant’ by Chesterton RDC. They would upset local administration and leave only
a small county that could not be staffed adequately. Villages did not want to lose
their parish councils that knew their needs in exchange for a representative on the
Borough Council. They had no control over water, gas or electric supply and are at
the mercy of monopoly companies – these are the benefit they propose to extend to
the surrounding authorities.

30 12 16a&b&c # c.35.1

1905

An inquest was held on an inmate of Caxton Workhouse. It was the first night the
cells had been artificially heated this winter, the flue passed underneath his cell
and there had been an escape of carbonic acid gas which had suffocated him. The
occupant of the next cell was also affected. The cells will not used again until
the flues were replaced by a hot water heating apparatus

05 12 14 & a # c.32.9

Tuesday 20th December

1980

Anyone who can afford it can now ‘pick the brains’ of a central computer via
Prestel, a specially adapted tv set connected to the telephone. A remote control
keypad enables it to dial up the local computer and access material stored in its
memory which travels down the ordinary telephone line. In the future one might use
on-screen displays to teach children, transmit newspaper-type material with a
domestic print-out facility, exchange letters and conversations by text displays
and vote in general and local elections.

80 12 10a # c.27 # COMPUTER

1955

Unicam Instruments celebrated its 21st birthday; it had started in a stables on St

Andrew’s Hill, Cambridge. Despite setbacks, when paying the staff became a problem,
the firm thrived. At the outbreak of war, after a skirmish with the Ministry of
Aircraft Production, they acquired Riley House opposite the Tivoli Cinema. Finance
problems arose again and they established a relationship with Pye Ltd.

55 12 17a # c.27.1

1930

The county library committee debated spending a farthing rate on books, 80 per cent
of which were fiction. Such books could be a waste of time or a downright bad
habit. There was little difference between putting Edgar Wallace on a cinema screen
and having him in a book. There was no reason why public money should be used to
provide ‘The Squeaker’ free for boys and girls in the villages. But Sir Graham
Greene said those in the country should enjoy the same advantages as those in town.

30 12 17 # c.77.7

1905

With the approach of Christmas shops are beginning to assume an extra brightness.
Laurie and McConnal’s huge emporium has a collection of steam and clockwork toys
together with dolls priced from the humble penny to 15s. They are selling the
newest game ‘Quit’ at a particularly low price, something of the sort is almost
indispensable to Christmas.
05 12 18a, b, c

Wednesday 21st December

1980

The time taken to get through supermarket check-outs varies; at 6pm on a Thursday
evening Tesco’s Regent Street store, Cambridge was fairly busy and five out of the
seven checkouts were in operation; it took nine minutes to get through. But at
their Bar Hill store we queued for 21 minutes. At Bishop’s, Arbury Court, paying by
cheque meant the cashier had to get it approved by her colleague, which delayed the
neighbouring queue.

80 12 11a & b

1955

Stanley Matthews, the greatest soccer player of the century made his first visit to
Cambridge. Local football officials and celebrities laid aside the rivalries of the
field for the opportunity to shake his hand. At the end a schoolboy collared him
for his autograph; Stanley said: “When I was your age I was always in bed by eight
o’clock”. He then left for his hotel and bed – dead on 9.30 pm

55 12 17c # c.38 : football

1930

Cambridge people can now send their Christmas greetings by picture telegraphy – at
a price. They must post their picture telegram direct to the Central Telegraph
Office at a cost of £1 for the minimum size picture of 15 square inches up to 70
square inches for which the charge is £4 13s 6d.

30 12 20c # c.27.7

1905

A Royston meeting considered forming an athletic association and erecting a

building to serve as a drill hall, gymnasium and swimming bath. Lord Roberts was
proposing that every boy in every public school should be instructed to shoot with
the rifle, young men should stretch their limbs and learn the noble art of self-
defence and singlesticks and every boy and girl should learn to swim. If they
wanted such a place and put their backs into it then they could do it.

05 12 19a&b

Thursday 22nd December

1980

One of the oldest pubs in Cambridge, the Rose in Rose Crescent, may soon be just a
memory. The brewery, Whitbread, is to sell the premises and it is likely to be
converted into student accommodation. Landlord Alf Barnett said it was a place
where a man in gumboots and work clothes could stand alongside a businessman with
brolly and bowler hat and get along together. Sons of the gentry, over late-night
cups of coffee, would ask to borrow the phone to ring ‘Mum’ and he used to vet
their girlfriends.
80 12 20 # c.27.4

1955

The little church of the Holy Trinity at Heydon stands in a tree-screened

churchyard on the hills near Royston. It is a quite and isolated spot but by
freakish chance an odd enemy bomb fell on it during the 1940 raids and did
considerable damage. The five bells were blown out of the tower, one bounced across
the road into the schoolyard, without cracking. Parishioners have continued to
worship in the rectory, the organ, altar and pews to seat 70 people being
accommodated in a suitable room. Eventually the War Damage Commission agreed to
meet the cost of re-building and it is hoped to be ready by summer.

55 12 18c # c.45.7

1930

Robert Maynard, the well-known Whittlesford engineer, died at the age of 85. His
life was spent in patenting or perfecting agricultural machinery & to the last he
visited the office of works daily. His chaff cutter took the world’s champion prize
for efficiency at Glasgow in 1887 and His Majesty the King has one of these
machines in the Buckingham Palace Mews.

30 12 20a

1905

Telegrams between Ely and Cambridge are transmitted via London and much time is
lost. A Cambridge physician received a wire from Ely requesting his immediate
presence. He at once despatched a telegram saying he would travel by the next
train, haled a cab and drove to the station. At Ely he had to walk a mile to the
house he was visiting – and arrived before the telegram! Considering the intimate
connection that exists between the two towns, particularly in the fruit season,
this is most undesirable.

05 12 22a # c.27.7

Friday 23rd December

Plans for two major developments in Ely have been approved. The Rex Cinema, which
has been losing money, will be knocked down to make way for a new Boots store and
additional space for Brands. The Club Hotel site will be altered to provide 17 mini
shopping units, though there could be traffic problems. But a scheme to knock down
a row of derelict cottages in Newnham Street to make way for seven shops, 21 flats
and two office suites have been turned down.

80 12 23b

1955

Employees of Messrs R. Buttress & co, shirt makers, tailors and robe makers,
gathered in their workroom for a presentation to Mr J. Hewish who is retiring at
the age of 83. He has been a tailor for 65 years; he was apprenticed at Newmarket
where he helped to make riding breeches and started in Cambridge for fivepence an
hour.
55 12 21 # c.27

1930

Chivers employees spent a pleasant and instructive time at the Central Cinema when
they watched the new film ‘From Orchard to Home’. It covered the processes in
making jam from picking the fruit to labelling the jars and showed the facilities
afforded the employees in their leisure hours. At the conclusion a good deal of
merriment was caused by the showing of a similar film taken 25 years ago; it was
interesting to compare the difference between the work then and now

30 12 23 # c.65.5

1905

On the eve of Christmas merrymaking a gloom was cast over the little village of
Kirtling by a tragedy. A shot was heard in the vicinity of a cottage and
subsequently a seven-year-old girl startled some relatives by running into their
house saying, ‘Mother is dead. Father has shot her’. Not caring to investigate the
matter themselves they sent for the village constable, who was out. In the evening
he proceeded to the cottage where he found a woman’s body lying in a pool of blood
with a shot wound to the head. Her husband was sitting nearby nursing the youngest
child, a baby.

05 12 27a # c.34.6 # MURDER

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 26th December

1980

Thomas Orbell, the owner of a garage in Milton Road Cambridge for almost 50 years
has died. He was widely-known in motor-racing circles because of his son, David,
who won the second round of the Clubmans Register Championship at Brands Hatch in
April. He was still involved in engine development for his son’s present venture in
Formula Three racing.

80 12 30 # c.38 : motor racing

1955

Mr G.B. Halls, the first clerk to the Cambridgeshire Executive Council of the
National Health Service, has retired. The first meeting under the National
Insurance Act was in July 1912 and he took over in 1926. During all his long
service he was a contributor to the scheme but never found it necessary to claim
benefit.

55 12 10 & 10a

1930

The heavy rain did not deter a large number of members of the Cambridgeshire Hunt
from assembling on Cambridge Market Hill for this traditionally English spectacle.
The scene was one worth a soaking to witness. Figures in the traditional red and
black mingled with macintoshed horsemen, their steaming mounts were [MJP1]restless,
the hounds silent and around was a rain-drenched crowd of about 1,000 people. They
took a great deal of interest in a small terrier who looked out from the mouth of a
haversack slung across a red-coated huntsman’s back

30 12 27a-b # c.38 : hunting

1905

A substantial free dinner was given at the People’s Mission, off Sturton Street,
Cambridge to all that could be crowded in. Over 200 enjoyed hot roast beef, legs of
mutton, boiled beef, vegetables, Christmas puddings and tea. Afterwards gramophone
selections and songs were much appreciated. Each person received an orange and each
man a packet of tobacco. There will also be a free tea to about 300 poor children

05 12 28

Tuesday 27th December

1980

This has been a good year for Cambridge United who played Aston Villa, probably
the most famous cup side in England, in the FA Cup. There was a mad scramble to
tickets; 12,000 lucky fans were treated to a cup thriller and most were happy with
a 1-1 draw though United were trimmed 4-1 in the replay. Then they met Wolves in
the Football League Cup, beating them over two legs in a performance that brought
praise from England manager Ron Greenwood. They went on to beat Aston Villa but
then lost to Coventry.

80 12 31a # c.38 : football

1955

Its panto-time again and comedian Danny Kaye heads the cast at the New Theatre,
Cambridge. This time he has chosen ‘Cinderella’ in which he plays the loveable
‘Buttons. He has assembled a good cast which keeps up the tradition of making the
people (especially children) happy. Fenella Fielding plays Prince Charming with vim
and vigour and no pantomime would be complete without the Brokers’ Men, in this
case Cleef and Ball, two riotous knock-abouts.

55 12 28

1930

The booking hall at Cambridge railway station was the scene on Christmas Eve of one
of the most extraordinary happenings ever witnessed. As a taxicab was being driven
back to the station rank its driver suffered a seizure; the vehicle careered
through the booking hall entrance and crashed into the collapsible iron gates near
the ticket collector’s box. If the barrier had been wide open it would have gone
right on to the track, and a train was just due.

30 12 27 # c.26.2 # c.26.48

1905

About 250 of the poorest inhabitants of Cambridge attended the Christmas Free
Dinner arranged by the Salvation Army at the Sturton Town Hall. Needless to say the
fare provided was done full justice to and subsequently the guests were entertained
by the Army Band. The function was attended by the Parliamentary candidates for the
borough who shook hands with guests each of whom received a copy of the Christmas
‘Way Cry’ and a pamphlet on ‘How to be Saved’

05 12 29a

Wednesday 28th December

1980

The highlight of the sporting year came in Gothenburg where Mike Lee became the
youngest world speedway champion for 20 years; now he is the established top rider
in the world and a member of the England team. The boxing highlight was the world
title fight for Dave ‘Boy’ Green. He flew to America to take on Sugar Ray Leonard,
only to be put on the seat of his pants.

80 12 31b

1955

It was a Black Friday for six Black Horse Drove men stopped for cycling without
lights. It was almost daylight on a dead-end road right out in the fens on which
motorised traffic is absolutely nil. They only used the last half-mile for getting
to work. But P.C. Miller said it had been a particularly foggy morning with very
restricted visibility; some of the men did have lights on their bikes but they were
not turned on. They were each fined.

55 12 30

1930

George Cornwell, signalman of Furlong Drove was presented with a ‘First Aid’ award
certificate. In October 1929 a fireman fell off his engine and was run over by a
train travelling in the opposite direction. His right leg was severed and he had
wounds to the buttocks and head. Mr Cornwell applied a tourniquet and bandages,
used a door as a stretcher and took him to the signal box. A doctor said the first
aid had saved life for eight hours whereas the patient would otherwise have died in
a few minutes.

30 12 27d # c.26.2

1905

On Christmas Eve the casuals at Newton Union were given a liberal breakfast of
bacon and eggs and told they could share the fare of the regular inmates and not be
expected to work for their food and lodgings. A workhouse is not a bad place on
Christmas Day. Discipline is relaxed, there is plenty of good food and not a few
luxuries. One would have thought they would have seized the chance of such a
comfortable day. Not they, they all took their leave. The explanation is simple.
They can make a good thing out of begging from good-natured folk at Christmas.

05 12 30 # c.32.9

Thursday 29th December

1980

The headmaster at Longstanton school is finding that the academic needs of his
pupils are outstripping their financial resources. He gets £10 per year for every
child, which has to cover everything. Two-thirds of the children come from service
families at the Oakington Barracks and because the Army moves a whole battalion at
a time, the school’s population changes literally overnight every two and a half
years. This raises problems for the village children who are there all the time.

80 12 18

1955

The U.S.A.F. and United Kingdom civilians at Wimpole Park Hospital have broken
their record of 151 pints of blood. The Mobile Blood Transfusion Service team
arrived and by nine were ready for action. It was like a well-organised Christmas
rush, ten pints being donated continually except for a short lunch break until 168
pints had been taken.

55 12 09a # c.45.8

1930

Stars such as Jack and Claude Hulbert delighted Cambridge audiences in their early
days. The latest is Harold Warrender who just two years ago was the mainstay of the
University Footlights production, acting in many of the skits. It was very evident
that he had great gifts and he is now playing at the Criterion with the famous
Alice Delysia in a new farce, ‘A Pair of Trousers' , making the most of the
opportunities it offers

30 12 27d # c.76

1905

A staunch adherent to Primitive Methodism was laid to rest at Haverhill. James

Bareham started a chapel for the cause 50 years ago and paid the rent when times
were hard and it looked as if services would have to be abandoned. He was a general
dealer in Queen Street and a total abstainer and non smoker. Walking was a
recreation and he accomplished long distances on Sundays to take services in the
district.

05 12 29c # c.82.06

Friday 29th December

1980

Plans to expand the village of Somersham have been resisted for many years. An
attempt to build on the outskirts of the village was thwarted but it is designated
as a '‘key village'’ and must grow. Now ‘The Paddocks’ development has gained an
award as the best estate containing lower-price houses to be built in the last
decade with an average selling price of £10,500. It was praised for the sensitive
planning which managed to avoid destroying the character of the area.

80 12 11c

1955

Cambridge Association of Organists gave a recital in Trinity College Chapel to mark

the centenary of the birth of Dr Alan Gray, the great musician. In 1892 be became
conductor of the Cambridge University Music Society and was also borough organist.
He wrote several services and anthems of great beauty, which are regularly sung in
cathedrals and churches

55 12 17b # c.69

1930

Edward Conybeare, the former vicar of Barrington, retired in 1898 and was then
received into the Roman Catholic church. He has three sons and two daughters, all
of whom have distinguished themselves; James is Archdeacon of Nottingham, Bruce was
one of the early settlers in British East Africa, Alfred is a Master at Eton.
Alison is now Ely Diocesan Secretary for the Mothers’ Union while Dorothea is
actively interested in the Girls’ Friendly Society and assists in the massage
department at Addenbrooke's Hospital where 12,000 treatments are given annually.

30 12 27e

1905

Two Weston Colville girls, aged 11 and nine, stole two dolls, a quantity of soap
and washing blue. Hannah Clark, shopkeeper, said the articles were kept at a shed
at the back of her premises. The children played with her boy, she had been very
good to them because they were motherless. P.C. Lowe said small footprints lead
from the shed to next door, where the children lived and he found soap in their
garden. They were bound over,

05 12 29b

2005 December stories unused

1980

Harold Painter’s Sutton history book – Petty – 80 12 05a

Lennon and cynical Cambridge – Beatles visit 1963 – 80 12 10 # c.69

Longstanton school head’s views on education – 80 12 12 # c.36.6

Newmarket station can be demolished – 80 12 15 # c.26.2

Sussex Street shops – 80 12 16 # c.44.6

Radio Cambridgeshire – Hal Bethell plans – 80 12 23a - c.27.81

Weird GHOSTS of MADINGLEY Hall – 80 12 24 & a & c # c.39

1955

The CLOCK that changed places – ST GILES’ church – 55 12 13a

1930

Milton Road heroes – football cartoon – 30 12 01a # c.38 : football

Cambridge coach war – Cambridge Comfort Coaches reply to Varsity – 30 12 08 #

c.26.46
Branch library site, Chesterton & Cherry Hinton – 30 12 09 # c.77.4

Cambridge engravers, William Stephens and William Henshaw, 18th century – 30 12 18

# ENGRAVERS

Accident, Blue Circle steam wagon – 30 12 19 # c.26.48

Millers all-electric wireless receivers photos – 30 12 20 # c.27.81

1905

Burwell toll gate – history – 05 12 02c, d & e # c.44.65 # BURWELL

Gog Magog Hills serious fire overheating threshing machine – 05 12 04 # c.34.75

Proposed footbridge Fort St George – 05 12 07 # c.44.7

12-yearold burglar – 05 12 08 – CHILDREN

The telephone trouble – charge for poles – 05 12 15 # c.27.7

Death E.A. WADSWORTH, mineral water manufacturer – 05 12 16a # c.27.4

Charles PARNELL, IRISH patriot & Cambridge – 05 12 16b

St Paul’s church memorial window, Elizabeth Jones – 05 12 18c # c.83

Fire Mill Road boot stores – 05 12 30a # c.34.75

Odd story

John Etheridge in gaol AMERICA – PRICKWILLOW vicar – 05 08 29c

NEWMARKET heath highway robbery 300 years ago - 05 04 28b # c.34.6

Looking Back 2006 by Mike Petty

Monday 2nd January

1981

The landlord of the Crown and Pipes pub in Fenstanton is to ask Lester Piggott to
donate ‘something suitable’ to turn his bar into a ‘shrine to racing’. He has
bought a print of Piggott’s eight Derby winners together with others of Arkle,
Brigadier Gerard and Mill Reef and hopes to acquire jockeys’ silks. It has always
been a racing-oriented pub since Joe and Manny Mercer used to pop in on their way
to northern tracks in the 1950s.

81 01 03

1956

Cyril Bailey, partner in the well-known building firm of Johnson and Bailey, spent
the whole of his life in Cambridge. He was apprenticed as a carpenter and joiner,
working on aircraft production in the first world war and founded the firm in 1919.
He devoted his life to the business up to the time of his death and was a past
President of the Master Builders’ Association. A man of pleasing personality and of
a charming and unassuming manner he will be greatly missed.

56 01 03 # c.23

1931

Christmas Day festivities at the Home of Mercy in Christchurch Street, Cambridge

were spent in the usual manner. The chapel was decorated with lilies and carnations
presented by two of the married girls as a mark of appreciation. Everyone attended
Christ Church at 7 and 11 am and then enjoyed a bountiful dinner. Each girl found
in her pudding a piece of money which is to be presented to Addenbrooke's Hospital
building fund. Evensong was sung in chapel after which a pantomime (on the
wireless) was enjoyed until the day came to a close at 9.30.

31 01 02e # c.37.3 # WOMEN

1906

The old custom of assembling on King’s Parade to witness the death of the old year
and the birth of the new, as signalized by the discharge of a couple of rockets,
was again observed by a large number of the inhabitants of Cambridge. The crowd was
in a happy frame of mind but there was nothing to complain of in their behaviour. A
few seconds before midnight one rocket soared skywards to the accompaniment of
cheers. Shortly afterwards 1906 was heralded by a second. The custom, which was
initiated by the late Mr Deck, has now reached its 80th anniversary.

06 01 01a # c.39

Tuesday 3rd January

1981

Militant anit-vivisectionists dubbed slogans and insults on the homes of Cambridge

scientists, calling for an end to the use of animals in experiments. They were part
of an orchestrated attack by the Animal Liberation Front. One scientist was
awakened by a telephone call at 3am to be told there was ‘a surprise’ in his front
garden; he found slogans over his garage door and coping stones knocked from a
wall. But he no longer works in Cambridge.

81 01 04

1956

The Mayor of Cambridge met people aged from two hours to 100 years during his New
Years Day tour. The baby was Nicola Mansfield and the centenarian Mrs Eleanor
Clarke at Chesterton Hospital where the official party went round the wards handing
out cigarettes and chocolate to the patients.

56 01 03a-b

1931

The master of Saffron Walden Workhouse told the court that on Boxing Night three
tramps had applied for admission to the casual ward. He took their particulars and
attempted to search them, but they refused. One threw a bag at him and hit him on
the cheek. “I knocked him down; then another threw a chair at me. I knocked him
down”. The third man was struggling with the porter. “When he saw I had knocked
down the other two he tried to get away, and I fetched him back, and he struck at
me, and I knocked him down also”, he said. The men who appeared in a dejected
state, minus collars and overcoats, were sentenced to seven days imprisonment.

31 01 02a-c

1906

Fire gutted the Mill Road Boot Stores adjoining St Barnabas Church, Cambridge. The
flames rose to a great height and melted some of the lead of the windows of the
church. The building was a one-storeyed erection, largely composed of wood. A
number of wooden packing cases at the rear formed a source of danger as they
connected with a thatched cottage and a stonemason’s yard adjoining was also
seriously placed.

06 01 01b # c.34.75 # c.44.6

Wednesday 4th January

1981

Primary schools at Pymoor and Witcham may close next July; the Pymoor children will
go to Lt Downham and the 35 pupils from Witcham will attend Mepal school. But Fen
Drayton school may be given a temporary reprieve while councillors consider
educational provision in the Fenstanton and Hilton area.

81 01 06a

1956

Trinity College is to enquire into the average price of a Winchester Bushel of good
marketable wheat in Cambridgeshire over the last 14 years. Once the price has been
fixed the people of Barrington will have to pay. Under the terms of the village
Enclosure Act of 1802 the church tithes were commuted into annual money payments
calculated according to the price of cereal. It is the only local village affected
by this particular form of corn rent The last time it was fixed was 28 years ago
when the price was 83d per bushel; now it will be nearer 131d.

56 01 04 # c.32.3

1931

The sound of girls’ voices, high and clear, punctuated the interview granted by
Miss Dovey, headmistress of the County School for Girls. Cambridge born, she was
educated at the Higher Grade School when Mrs Evans was the Principal. She took a
degree at London University and was appointed headmistress in 1926. But the Girl
Guides’ concert meant we could not settle to our conversation and instead we
watched part of a farce performed by some of the teachers who appeared in pyjamas,
dressing gowns and sleeping caps, to the great delight of their pupils.

31 01 02d # c.36.5

1906

A Kirtling man was remanded at Newmarket police court, charged with the murder of
his wife. A number of persons waited on the platform at the railway station in the
hope of seeing the prisoner alight from the Cambridge train, but they were doomed
to disappointment. He was conveyed by road in a two-horse conveyance but not a
glimpse could be caught as it was driven into the yard at the rear of the police
station.
06 01 02 # c.34.6

Thursday 5th January

1981

A last-minute bid to lift the threat of closure from Grantchester Church of England
school has failed; it will close in July 1982 and the pupils transferred to Barton.
Villagers wanted it to be retained as a one-teacher school until there were more
pupils. But rising house prices meant that people with young families could no
longer afford to live there and it was a question of economics.

81 07 07a

1956

A practice bomb, inadvertently released from an American B47 bomber, fell in a

ploughed field near Newport and buried itself in a crater 15 feet deep and 20 feet
wide. It caused hundreds of pounds worth of damage to Biggs’ nurseries; one man was
wounded when sheets of glass were blown out and five other men ran clear. The
crater was surrounded by large sheets of metal which was burned and twisted and
scattered over a wide area. A lorry-load of RAF men wearing bow ties and white
gloves with Wellington boots collected the fragments and men with picks and shovels
removed a large container from the bottom of the crater.

56 01 05 # c.45.8 # c.26.1

1931

A six-wheeled Chevrolet lorry was destroyed in a fire that broke out in a garage
adjoining Bleak House, Bassingbourn. Mr G. Lincoln was lying under the lorry
emptying the petrol into cans when some splashed on to the lamp by which he was
working. It ignited and the lorry was enveloped in flames. Despite his burns he
went into the garage adjoining and brought out another lorry. Royston fire brigade
obtained water from a well and the fire was checked; the house was not touched.

31 01 02f

1906

A fire broke out in the roof of Addenbrooke's Hospital and extensive damage by fire
and water has been wrought. A laundry maid saw wreaths of smoke above the roof of
the operating theatre. The staff devoted themselves to the safety of the patients;
those who could walk were hurriedly clad in warm wraps and led down the emergency
staircase down which the more infirm, some on stretchers and some in their beds
were carried. A similar fire broke out in October 1902.

06 01 06a-c # c.21.4 # c.34.75

Friday 6th January

1981
Efforts to get permanent sites for gypsies in the Cambridge area are being hampered
by meddling by Councils, claimed the representative of the Romany Guild. By
circulating petitions demanding a site and threatening legal action they are
delaying provision of a permanent site. Communications between different groups
were never easy when the caravanners were constantly on the move. His attack
follows the removal of 40 families from the Cambridge Cattle Market site and there
are now 12 caravan near Milton bypass.

81 01 07b # GYPSIES

1956

A policeman told the court he had seen lights in the window of the Railway Tavern,
Littleport at 12.10 am; inside were three men playing dominoes and drinking from
beer glasses. The landlord said they were friends who had got off the train after
watching the England-Spain football match at Wembley and stopped to tell him about
it. They had taken a glass of beer at his invitation without paying for it. They
were each fined.

56 01 06a-c

1931

Croydon-cum-Clopton church is of early 14th-century date and has never suffered

destructive restoration. The main walls of the nave bulge out and the new buttress
has pulled the old one away from the tower; the south wall, pillars and arcade are
leaning over at an alarming angle. The walls of the church are cracked at the
centre of each side so it is not wise to ring the bell. Probably there is no church
in the diocese in a more perilous condition

31 01 02g # c.82.01

1906

Last night’s gale was one of the most severe within living memory. Great damage was
done all over Cambridge. On Newmarket Road a tall chimney at the brickworks began
to sway violently and then fell with a tremendous crash. The large trees at the
Backs suffered considerably; five were uprooted and blown into Queen’s Road. During
the morning numbers of poor people were busily engaged in taking away the portions
they could carry for firewood. Two children took away a branch of considerable
weight using a pair of wheels taken from a perambulator

06 01 06d-e # c.12 # c.18

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 9th January

1981

Work has started on the electrification of the railway line through Huntingdon, St
Neots and Sandy. The seven-month programme which involves auger-boring by the
trackside and the making of concrete bases for the overhead cable masts is
primarily to keep a specialist team of workers in existence. Electrification of the
East Coast main line at present goes no further than Hitchin where the Great
Northern electric line branches off to Royston. The extension to Peterborough has
not yet been authorised. The Cambridge line remains the main priority.
81 01 07c

1956

‘The Coffee Anchor’ down Laundress Lane is an
bar in Cambridge. The new rooms, delightfully
second floor overlooking the Cam, were opened
University Boat Club with a flourishing swish
the first official cup of hot coffee
innovation: the first licensed coffee
done out in contemporary style on the
by the President of the Cambridge
of the magic machine that drew out

56 01 11 # c.27.4

1931

The lady owner of a barn at Fen Ditton told the court it had been used as a
practice room for a band and they suggested she should run tea dances; a large
number of prominent people attended. They had the lights out on one occasion
because Conan Doyle was there and as he was very keen on spiritualism they had a
small séance. But police said she had deliberately inveigled young men of the
University and girls into immoral courses, using the premises as a brothel. She was
fined £100.

31 01 02i-l # GHOSTS

1906

The University is deciding who shall be their representatives in parliament. But

voting is not by secret ballot. Three polling stations are furnished with desks and
packs of voting cards of different colours with a space for the voter’s name,
college and degree to be written. Two electors arrived together, one in academicals
and the other cap and gownless. He had to wait until his companion had completed
his business before borrowing his gown & thus be allowed to vote.

06 0 13a&b # c.33 # c.36.9

Tuesday 10th January

1981

The A1-M1 link road is officially ranked as a scheme of the highest importance. But
there is total disagreement about the route. The Government wants it to run from
the M6 junction but Cambridgeshire county council suggests a route between
Northampton and Thrapston, past Wellingborough. They want the road between St Neots
through Kimbolton to Highham Ferrars to be downgraded but this can only be done
when an alternative through route is open.

81 01 09a

1956

For many years the Salvation Army at Histon has laboured under difficult
circumstances because of the smallness of their hall. Now a new Citadel is to open
in Impington Lane when the key will be turned by Mrs Stanley Chivers. It has been
built by Messrs F.L. Unwin at a cost of £5,100 and will seat 200 people. The
present hall is to be used as a Young People’s Hall.

56 01 14a
1931

Lady Darwin, wife of Sir George the Professor of Astronomy, is an American with an
interest in the feminine movement. In 1914 she wrote an article on policewomen; the
idea of crating a female police corps created tremendous excitement and during the
war a small number were appointed.. She is very hospitable and is never happier
than when her house, Newnham Grange, is full of guests, particularly American
undergraduates. Her eldest daughter is Mrs Gwen Raverat, a distinguished wood-
engraver

31 01 09a

1906

Political strife led to rowdyism and disorder at Great Thurlow where the Liberal
candidate was to have addressed a meeting. A member of the Conservative party
distributed leaflets of an election song with a refrain that ran “Wait till the
poll’s gone by Quilter” which was quickly taken up. The vicar appealed for order to
no effect. Then a message was received from the candidate whose motor car had been
stopped by men with flags to say a hostile crowd was awaiting him. Not wanting to
run the risk of having his motor lamps smashed he decided to turn back.

06 01 12 # c.33

Wednesday 11th January

1981

There is a tinge of sadness about the Plough Monday celebrations this year. Russell
Wortley, who did so much to restore the custom and was instrumental in bringing
back the Molly Dancers, died last January while Molly Dancing at Comberton. But he
left a permanent record in notes and articles which have now been published by the
Cambridge Morris Men.

81 01 09b # c.39

1956

All previous records were beaten at the National Boat Show, Olympia. Granta
Floating Boats of Cottenham have taken an order from a Finnish company for 100 of
their new outboard motors and also sold 50 of their canoes – the works should be
busy for a long time to come. Appleyard Lincoln and Co boatbuilders of Ely booked
their entire hire fleet for most of the summer and a revolutionary new boat
developed by Aero Research of Duxford is to be mass produced in America.

56 01 14a & b # c.26.3

1931

The police are to purchase four motor cycle combinations to prevent dangerous or
careless driving and enforce the speed limits. They would not be out on the roads
to catch and prosecute people but to educate the public to drive carefully. In
order to get a government grant they would have to cover an average of 30 miles a
day. Alderman Stanley voted for the scheme but hoped he would not be run in by
them. (Laughter).

31 01 09b # c.34.7 # c.24.48

1906

When the election meeting at Newnham concluded the candidate’s carriage was drawn
to the Conservative Club followed by a procession which included a couple of motor
buses. Just as it reached Cambridge Market Hill a similar procession of
demonstrating Liberals poured out of Petty Cury. These two bodies of citizens
conceived an intense dislike for each other, shouting vigorously. A little later
there was an exhibition of fisticuffs in Sidney Street

06 01 13 # c.33

Thursday 12th January

1981

A bomb blast ripped through the Waggon and Horse pub at Cottenham, shattering a
window and sending glass and burning fragments of wood into the street. The device,
described as a pipe bomb had been left on a window ledge and exploded at 4.45 in
the morning. Fragments the home-made device have been sent for forensic
examination. Police have ruled out terrorist involvement but have no idea of the
motive behind it.

81 02 12a

1956

Crowds several hundred strong massed to see the Queen Mother and Princess Margaret
as they visited Stanley Woolston’s antique shop in Cambridge. As news of the
surprise visit spread hundreds of girls from shops and offices set out to cheer the
Royal visitors. Police fought to keep the road clear but every time they cleared a
space another group of women moved in. The Queen Mother expressed concern about the
future of the business – he must leave by June because of building plans for the
site – saying “We want to know where we can come and visit you”.

56 01 18 # c.02

1931

The Orthopaedic (Cripples’ Care) Clinics at Newmarket and Ely are run in connection
with the Massage Scheme of the Red Cross Society to deal with cases of bone
deformity among young children. The patients pay a small fee but save the time,
expense and fatigue of going to Addenbrooke's Hospital. Infant paralysis
(poliomyelitis) if taken in time should not mean a cripple for life. Regular
treatment and aftercare means crippling defects are counteracted and crooked limbs
can be made straight.

31 01 10a # c.21.1 # CHILDREN

1906

The polling box from Norfolk Street was the last to arrive at Cambridge Guildhall
and with it came the story of a tactful police inspector who had piloted the
carriage containing some hundreds of votes through a Petty Cury crowded with
excited partisans. Inside the ballot papers were counted and it became known that
Mr Buckmaster was elected. Mr Paget, with the generosity of an English gentleman,
shook his hand and congratulated him on the victory

06 10 16b # c.33
Friday 13th January

1981

The redundant All Saints church in Cambridge may have had £50,000 in its coffers
when it was closed down seven years ago. The discovery has re-opened the simmering
row about the future of the Victorian church in Jesus Lane. Supporters claim it
could have been used on badly-needed repairs to the fabric of the building and have
accused the Diocese of letting it go to rack and ruin. But the archdeacon says
money is no longer available for a church when it is made redundant and should be
used for the benefit of the living church rather than the dead.

81 01 12b # c.83

1956

To the accompaniment of enthusiastic cheers and the loud roar from the exhaust Mrs
Lawson Campbell snapped a blue ribbon with the first modern car – a jet-black
Vanguard – to be driven from Mr B.J. Powell’s newly-opened Sawston Garage. Situated
off the High Street, tall and gracious, it is a fine example of modern building.
The showroom is bright and stocked with a magnificent array of new cars.

56 01 19a

1931

An Ortona conductor was summoned for allowing 60 passengers on to a single-decker

bus licensed to carry 37. It was a very busy day just before Christmas. The bus had
started from Sutton and the trouble arose at Denny End, Waterbeach where there were
a number of passengers wanting to go to Cambridge market. The bus had to pull up at
the railway station to set down passengers and people waiting there wanted to get
on. The conductor did his best to prevent them but was helpless. He tried to get
them to transfer to a relief bus but they would not get off.

31 01 10b # c.26.46

1906

The newly-elected Cambridge Liberal MP, Mr Buckmaster, proceeded to the Bull Hotel.
Hundreds upon hundreds thronged King’s Parade and still hundreds more from Market
Hill arrived, cheering as they came. When he appeared on the balcony the applause
reached fever heat, handkerchiefs and hats were waved and he was informed that he
was a jolly good fellow. At last, it seemed from very exhaustion, the people
settled down to hear his speech.

06 01 16b # c.33

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 16th January

1981

The Perse School for Girls celebrated its 100th birthday with a mammoth birthday
cake made by the school cooks. It was left to the youngest pupil, Amanda Higgins,
to blow out the candles. Head girl, Rachel Bendall presided over the cutting while
the headmistress, Miss Mary Rose Bateman, help with the serving to each of the 701
pupils and staff. Later there was of a film depicting its history and a
thanksgiving service.

81 01 17 # c.36.5

1956

The new choir vestry of Holy Trinity Church, Cambridge, was dedicated. Using
materials of old Cambridge brick and stone it fits well with the existing
buildings. It has folding doors leading into the older vestry, making a useful room
for meetings. Now urgent repairs to the organ can be undertaken.

56 01 19b # c.83

1931

Farmers said the agriculture Bills now before Parliament would destroy the whole of
the industry, root and branch. It was the biggest piece of Bolshevism ever put
before the country. The Land Utilisation Bill would disturb existing owners and set
up great state farms and a new privileged class – the urban smallholder. The
Government says farmers don’t understand their jobs and are going to show them how
to farm. The N.F.U. is to write to the Prime Minister, Lloyd George (the autocrat
of present-day politics) and Stanley Baldwin.

31 01 16a-c # c.22

1906

This week has died near Chatham an old man named Walter Tibball, said to have been
a prosperous pork butcher of Cambridge. But nobody here remembers him. He had at
one time been prosperous but was crossed in love and lived in as a hermit in a
dirty hut in a meadow swarming with rats. There was a similar case at Cottenham six
years ago; he too had an ill-fated love affair followed by fondness for spirituous
liquors and lived in a squalid hut on his own bit of freehold.

06 01 06f

Tuesday 17th January

1981

The News ‘Motoring’ column was started and first written by Brian Lister in 1955.
He went of to make one of the very famous names in sports-racing cars, the Lister-
Jaguar, which, driven by the late Archie Scott-Brown and tuned by Don Moore of
Cambridge Place, dominated the racing scene. Rodney Tibbs took over the column in
1957.

81 01 13b # c.04

1956

Many people who joined the large crowd outside Mr Stanley Woolston’s antique shop
did not know who they were waiting for but were quite willing to tag on the end.
The minutes ticked by and a group of shop assistants who were due back on duty and
had missed their lunch in the hope of seeing the Royal visitors had to leave. The
tension was made worse by the frequent appearance of the chauffeur who carefully
stowed small packages away in the boot of a maroon limousine. When the Queen Mother
and Princess Margaret finally appeared it was a wonder they were not crushed.
Within two minutes the street was deserted.

56 01 20a # c.02

1931

Elijah Lawrence learned the trade of blacksmith under his elder brother, James
Lawrence of Harston and took over the smithy at Trumpington where he worked for
nearly 50 years. He was a keen and competent tradesman, shoeing a considerable
number of horses before advancing years caused him to transfer the business to his
son-in-law. He had grown more feeble but a fortnight previously was driving himself
in his pony-cart.

31 01 16d

1906

The Ely surveyor said he had examined the Prickwillow Road and found that for 140
chains between the Norwich gates and the Old Bank the road was badly cut up. For
some months there had been exceptionally heavy traffic caused by Messrs R. Drake of
Sutton’s traction engines and wagons who had been making three or four journeys a
week carting agricultural produce.

06 01 19

Wednesday 18th January

1981

More than 50 ex-Saffron Walden footballers returned to their former ground to

celebrate the publication of Paul Daw’s history of the club. William ‘Tich’ Barker,
made his debut in 1930 when he was 16 but rejected claims that he was the ‘star’ of
the side that did so well just before the war when they used to get crowds of up to
1,600 people. “Nowadays, the players make more noise than the crowd: we never went
in for all the shouting which you see today; and we never got paid a penny either –
players used to give up an hour’s pay at work to catch the bus and turn out for
Walden”, he recalled.

81 01 14a

1956

Kelsey Kerridge said his father had acquired land at Hangman’s Corner, Barton Road,
Cambridge in 1934 and gained approval to build eight houses. Now there were
proposals to build a western by-pass here but it was a dangerous spot; there was a
brook which was liable to flooding and any roundabout would have to take it into
consideration. The County Surveyor said the proposed by-pass would carry up to
5,000 vehicles a day and benefit city traffic and delivery vans.

56 01 20b

1931

A memorial tablet was unveiled at Cambridge Police Station to the late Det-Serg
Francis Willis, who lost his life in the King’s College shooting tragedy. The
tablet, carried out in oak and bearing the Borough arms has been placed on the wall
by the side of the Roll of Honour, at the foot of the staircase. The public had
made a generous response to an appeal for the benefit of his widow and £625 had
been raised with another £208 from police federations across the country.

31 01 16e # c.34.6

1906

An extraordinary incident at the Cambridge election left some Conservatives

thinking their candidate had been elected. It may be that the white handkerchief
waved from the window of the Guildhall seemed in the glare of the gaslight, to be a
pink favour. Great was the jubilation, they cheered and they cheered and one
gentleman commenced a congratulatory speech. The shock of the news that the seat
had gone to Liberalism was therefore harder to bear when it arrived. Nevertheless
the Conservatives gave their champion a stirring reception when he joined them –
defeated or not.

06 01 20a # c.33

Thursday 19th January

1981

Fox Island is a nature reserve on the river Kym just before it joins the Great Ouse
by St Neots Golf Club. It was originally a two-acre strip of sedge and nettles, the
site of a tennis court attached to a bungalow built by an actor from London. It was
bought by Dr Patterson who cut through the site to form an island. He then set
about turning it into a sanctuary and it is now managed as a reserve

81 01 14b

1956

Proposals for a mobile library service for Cambridge failed by a single vote. The
present service was hopelessly inadequate; the Newmarket Road area had a population
of over 10,000 with only the difficult-to-find Ditton Fields branch library. The
council would not become bankrupt by buying a lorry for a mobile library. But
maintenance would be £1,000 a year and they should not spend such a large amount on
a service which was not a necessity.

56 01 20c # c.77.4

1931

Mr Charles Morley has presented a handsome trophy to the National Skating

Association for a one-mile race for amateurs who are not holders of the first-class
speed badge. At present 90 per cent of skating contests have been practically
foregone conclusions as one or two skaters carry off all the prizes, by debarring
these men the race will be much more open. It is to be skated on an oval course
rather than one requiring a length of 600 yards. This will enable fen skaters to
compete more successfully on indoor rinks and Continental courses.

31 01 16f & g # c.38 : skating

1906

The Liberal agent in a nearby town has always used a certain cottage as the
committee rooms for parliamentary elections. He placarded the walls with various
posters including the familiar design of ‘the closed schools’ referring to the
disabilities of the Nonconformist teacher. But the cottage adjoins the National
Schools and the managers ordered them out. When the Liberals refused to leave they
told the tenant to lock the door and refuse to let them in again. This constitutes
an infraction of electioneering law. Now the offending placards have been covered
up and there is much peace in the cottage and much paste on the walls.

06 01 20b # c.33

Friday 20th January

1981

The 15-year old problem of finding a suitable site for a multi-storey car park in
West Cambridge must be solved by the summer, city councillors have decided. The
residents of Newnham are to be told that, whether they like it or not, something
must be done. A major problem has been finding a suitable site but it can be built
just as cheaply underground, perhaps adjacent to the junction of Queen’s Road and
Madingley Road.

81 01 13a

1956

W.C. Squires had been a founder-member of the Cambridge Camera Club; he was a
master of the technique of bromoil, his work being exhibited overseas, and an
enthusiastic lantern slide worker. But he refused to lecture and many of his slides
had never been shown. His speciality was the portrayal of open landscape and he
aimed for a natural effect, be the conditions stormy or sunny. He loved the fen
country round Reach

56 01 20d # c.65.5

1931

Cambridge motorists were on their best behaviour when the Borough Police mobile
squad went out for their first time. P.C.s Edwards and Ward are the permanent
members of the squad, which is equipped with a fast motor cycle combination. The
setting up of the squad has made several changes necessary. The new warrant office
is P.C. Ives of the detective department and P.C. Brooks is Coroner’s Officer.

31 01 23a # c.34.6

1906

Newmarket is represented in Parliament by two MPs as it is in two different

counties; residents of one side of the High Street are in Suffolk and will vote
next week, the other Cambridgeshire. Here numerous carriages and carts drove
electors to the polls. When a conveyance bearing a poster ‘Vote for Guinness’
passed through the streets cheers were at once raised but the motor car used on Mr
Hardy’s behalf was greeted with booing and hisses. One Conservative driver carried
on the top of his silk ‘topper’ a loaf of bread, leaving electors to put their own
construction on the meaning.

06 01 22b

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 30th January

1981

Microelectronics have caused some major shake-ups in the way we live and work;
Cambridge’s electronics wizard, Clive Sinclair brought us the first pocket
calculator and pocket television and now launches Britain’s first complete personal
computer, the ZX-80. It plugs into the aerial socket of your television and is
tuned in like a video-game. But then you have to type in a program from the 128-
page instruction manual. The computer is not really all that bright and must be
given a clear list of instructions before it can do even the simplest sums.

81 01 26a & b # COMPUTER # c.27.1

1956

When Addenbrooke's Hospital was opened in 1766 it had no kitchens and some time
later the Governors bought a small adjoining tenement. But now they celebrate the
opening of new spacious and luxurious kitchens. The large dining room is
artistically decorated with red curtains, yellow walls and blue Venetian blinds
with separate spaces for medical and nursing staff

56 01 31a # c.21.4

1931

Fire broke out at the Blue Lias Cement Works, Meldreth, during a snow and sleet
storm. The engine rooms and mill house were damaged; most of the machinery was
reduced to a mass of burnt wreckage and 20 men will have to ‘stand off’ for several
months.

31 02 07a # CEMENT

1906

The new Cambridge Liberal Club premises in Downing Street includes an assembly room
with a ladies gallery, reading, smoking and games rooms. But it has nothing that
can compensate for the loss of the beautiful garden they enjoyed in their old home
at Rance’s Folly in St Andrew’s Street. It will be formally opened by the
Solicitor-General.

06 01 31a # c.33

Tuesday 31st January

1981

A Cambridge student has set up a computer dating service for lonely hearts in the
university. For just 50p the unattached undergraduate is promised an introduction
to the partner of his dreams. Confidential questionnaires drawn up by a student of
experimental psychology were sent out and the results loaded on a computer. It
matches them up to produce ideal partners and bliss ensures. It is hoped the first
couples will be paired off by St Valentine’s Day

81 01 28 # WOMEN # COMPUTERS # c.36.9

1956

The Sisters of Saint Margaret, East Grinstead, an Anglican community founded a

century ago by Dr John Mason Neale of Trinity College, have opened a centre in
Huntingdon Road, Cambridge. The small number of Sisters in residence must endeavour
to make their house self-supporting, in accordance with their Community’s rules,
and plan ‘open teas’ on Sunday afternoons.

56 01 31b & c # c.83

1936

Huntingdonshire National Farmer’s Union urged a reduction in the wages of

agricultural labourers because of the fall in the cost of living and the present
state of agriculture. Farmers could not pay a man 30s 6d a week to grow wheat which
earned a guinea per quarter. An alternative would be for the Government to bridge
the gap between the price they are getting for their produce and what it costs to
grow it or to allow the men to work longer hours in summer time

31 02 06b

1906

Saffron Walden Guardians were told the women from Romford in the Workhouse had
asked for more sugar and tea, and also snuff. The men had an ounce of tobacco each
week, which is what they had at Romford. But Walden inmates had only half that
amount. All inmates ought to be treated the same

06 01 31b # WORKHOUSE

2006 January unused stories

1981

Japanese pow article and pic of camp – 81 01 16a # c.45.7

New post for Cambs farmer – John Martin – 81 01 19
Dispute in University English faculty – 81 01 24a # c.36.9

1956

Central library reading room changes – periodicals – 56 01 12 # c.77.4

1931

Cambridge station booking hall accident – 31 01 02h # c.26.2

Book of old Cambridge archives to be printed – supplement to Cooper – 31 01 23b #
c.43

1906

Addenbrooke's Hospital fire – 06 01 08a & b & c # c.21.4 # c.34.75

Rag compensation claims – 06 01 19, 06 01 25a & b # c.34.6 # c.36.9
General election scenes – 06 01 16a,c,d; 06 01 22a & c
Dr Hodgson former lecture psychical phenomenon America – spiritualism – 06 01 27b #
GHOSTS
 February 2006

Wednesday 1st February

1981

The best thing than can happen to anybody who falls in the River Cam is to drown;
the alternative is to catch all kinds of horrible diseases, a councillor said.
Everything goes into the river, which is one big drain. They would like it to be
made safe for bathing but it was impossible to stop chemicals and fertilisers being
washed in and would mean higher water rates.

81 01 29 # c.46.5

1956

A planning inquiry into who owns a garage in Castle Street, Cambridge, came to an
abrupt end when an agreement was reached. Mr L.N. Reynolds will be allowed to pull
down two condemned cottages and erect a paint store. The whole of the site was ugly
and it would not destroy the amenities of the area. The County was interested in it
for ‘local government purposes’ as it allowed a clear view of Castle Mound.

56 02 01 # c.44.6

1936

A beam under the fireplace in the historic ‘Town House’ at Barley must have been
smouldering for over a week before it was discovered; the room was filled with
smoke. It was erected in 1530 as a town hall and almshouse and later became a
school and a workhouse. It was even used as a mad house with 36 people living
there, including one man who was chained in a corner. Now it is used as a club room
and houses the Barley fire appliance – a hand pump.

31 02 06d

1906

The proposed bridge at Bartlow had been before the Council since 1901. The Rev.
C.H. Brocklebank had offered to contribute £300 towards the erection of a bridge
over the road stream. But it meant people would have to go half-a-mile further to
church and a piece of land would be taken worth £500. They decided not to do
anything until Bartlow and Hadstock parish councils had a meeting about it.

06 01 31c

Thursday 2nd February

1981

The Viscountess Bury plopped into the Ouse with a new nose, a new right arm and a
dud battery. The 93-year-old doyenne of pleasure boats was relaunched at Ely after
a refit that included restoration of its figurehead, a well-upholstered Victorian
lady. But she would not start and it took over an hour to get her under way. It
should be available for hire by the end of April.

81 01 31 # c.26.3
1956

One of Britain’s best-known figures, Sabrina – TV’s 40, 22, 26 dumb blonde – made a
personal appearance at a Mildenhall air base dance in aid of polio relief. She
attended free of charge for she had been a polio sufferer herself and nearly lost a
leg as a result. She sang four songs, surprisingly well, and autographed
photographs for a host of admirers.

56 02 03a # WOMEN

1936

March Greyhound Racing Track staged its inaugural meeting. It attracted a fair
attendance, considering there was a big football match, and some fairly good racing
was witnessed, though no very notable dogs were competing. Because of the bad
weather the track was in very rough condition, being under water in places while
the spectators experienced considerable discomfort on the sodden ground.

31 02 06e

1906

Since January 15th when the Kirtling murderer was sentenced to death for the murder
of his wife, three petitions praying for a reprieve have been prepared. One was
signed by eleven of the jurors who served on the coroner’s inquest. The jury had
recommenced mercy as the man had been under the influence of drink. Now the Home
Secretary will advise the King to commute the sentence to penal servitude for life.

06 02 01 # c.34.6

Friday 2nd February

1981

Cambridgeshire is the centre for illegal bare-knuckle fist-fights; they are

straight knockabouts until one of the fighters drops and as much as £3,000 can
change hands with single bets of around £50. A fight at Fen Road Chesterton
involving two teenage boys from the gypsy fraternity and watched by a noisy crowd
of more than 500 was abandoned when police moved in to break up the crowd, some of
whom had travelled from all over the country.

81 02 02 # c.38 : boxing

1956

Life becomes difficult for the motorist with temperatures below freezing but the
Cambridge Automobile Association operates a weather report system. In the morning
patrolmen report conditions either by two-way radio or telephone and any member can
ring for details. A peak period for calls is at 12.30 when people return home for
lunch.

56 02 03b & c

1931

Mrs Harold Gray of Wandlebury House was elected to the executive of the Women’s
Institute movement at the end of the war and started an Institute at Stapleford.
She resigned when her husband became Member of Parliament for the county but was
elected President when his term of office ended. She says it is a strong social
instructive link between women of each village, irrespective of rank. She is a true
Bohemian at heart and has crossed the desert on a camel and almost gone ‘back to
Nature’ on the Cocos Islands in the Pacific.

31 02 13a

1906

Some councillors had taken exception to the bricks proposed to be used at the March
Schools, saying they ought to come from inside the county. But Fletton bricks from
the London Brick Company at Peterborough were cheaper than the Gildernburgh from
Whittlesea. Mr Laxton of Ely had also offered bricks but failed to send samples and
quotations. Nobody could say that the contractors did not have a fair trial

06 02 01b

February

Looking Back by Mike Petty

Monday 6th February

1981

Cambridge is one of the centres for a new electronic mail network launched by the
Post Office. The pioneer Intelpost service means than information can be delivered
in hours in a replica of its original form. Drawings and hand-written matter can be
transmitted to 17 other post offices The service is confidential and operating
staff who see documents are under legal obligations not to reveal their contents.
The rate is £2 for the first page and is backed up by a speedy hand-delivery
system. which costs £2.50.

81 02 05a # c.27.7

1956

The British Amateur Ice-Skating Championship held at Bury Fen, Earith, was attended
by eight skaters who had received trials for the British Olympic team. The entry of
32 was the largest ever known but the bulk of the competitors were London rink men
and local skaters had little opportunity to shine. The Drake Digby Memorial Shield
for boys resident within a 40-mile radius of March was won by A Bloom of
Bressingham.

56 02 06 # c.38 : skating

1931

Cambridge justices heard that the Crown and Sceptre in Clarendon Street was only
open from Monday to Saturday and closed at nine o’clock instead of ten, which was
the ordinary time for licenced houses. It was a comfortable house and the company
was good but customers found early closing irksome and went to other pubs of which
there were five within 200 yards. A full licence was granted subject to improvement
in the sanitary arrangements.
31 02 13c-d # c.27.4

1906

A London carpenter was charged with driving a motor car at greater speed than was
reasonable and proper .PC Aworth said he saw a car turn into Hobson Street,
Cambridge and put on speed. “The car went 30 mph, if fact I never saw a motor car
go faster”, he said. In turning the corner at Sussex Street the wheels went for
some distance along the pavement. Harry Stearn, a photographer, said he was walking
in the gutter and had to jump on the path to save himself. The driver was fined
50s. [FIFTY SHILLINGS]

06 02 02a

Tuesday 7th February

1981

Airport chiefs stood firmly by their claim that enlargement of Stansted airport
would mean no more than 6,000 new homes by 1991. They say airport workers are
characteristically young, with many people in the 18-24 age group who tend to share
houses and flats. But their assessment of the size of the workforce needed, the
number of staff moving into the area and the number of homes needed are all much
smaller than those of local authorities opposed to the scheme.

81 02 04

1956

A revolutionary new kind of rail transport has been the centre of attraction at
Cambridge Railway Station. The huge shining dark green diesel-engined unit is
unlike the traditional train. It has higher speed, greater comfort and a complete
absence of smoke. The drivers cab looks more like a scientist’s workshop than the
dirty, greasy footplate and the carriages resemble long-distance buses with
electric devices which circulate hot air during cold weather and cooling breezes in
the summer.

56 02 07a & b & c # c.26.2

1931

The Robin Hood at Cherry Hinton was the only licensed house on the main Cambridge-
Fulbourn Road but only had a beer licence. The brewery had spent a good deal of
money improving the amenities and the introduction of motor buses and charabancs
had made a great difference in trade. During the summer people came in almost every
day for teas and meals like bread and cheese. It was much used by walkers including
ladies who asked for port.

30 02 13e-f # c.27.4

1906

The length of time over which General Elections are spread is protracted beyond all
reason. Before the advent of motor cars considerable time was needed to enable a
candidate to make himself known to the electorate but now a week would answer all
purposes. A general election could then be over in nine days instead of three weeks
and the polling occupy three days instead of a fortnight.

06 02 03a # c.33

Wednesday 8th February

1981

St Neots Local History Society’s first meeting was attended by double the number of
people expected. About 120 turned up to see a slide show of old buildings in St
Neots given by David Hufford with a commentary by the newly-elected secretary, Mrs
Rosie Young. The society will have monthly meetings and survey the gravestones in
local cemeteries

81 02 02a

1956

In 1955 the Co-op bought the shop formerly known as Jacksons in High Street,
Fowlmere. There were four shops – grocery, furniture and butcher’s in a row – and
extensive alterations would be made so they could be worked together. One had an
‘off’ licence for wines and spirits but customers also liked to buy beer and have
it delivered. There were objections from the landlords of the Chequers and the
Queen’s Head and the owner of the Variety Shop so the licence was refused by
magistrates.

56 02 07d-f

1931

Stetchworth Dairies won the contract to supply Grade A tuberculin tested milk to
elementary schools; children will receive a bottle containing one-third of a pint
at a cost of 1d [ONE PENNY]. An experiment in Lanarkshire showed that children
supplied with milk were much more buoyant and lively both in body and mind and it
had a striking effect in improving their physical and mental alertness. Parents
should spare the penny a day so their children could receive these benefits.

31 02 13e

1906

Years ago it was not uncommon for the poorer classes of agricultural labourers to
eat rats. Last week West Wratting went a-ratting, and seven young men had a rat
supper. They were members of a village club who meet over a village shop. The
flavour can be compared to that of ‘sweetened soap’. Rat pie is the best method of
serving up the dish though rat curry would reduce the flavour. There is a ‘yellow
streak’ which must be removed or nobody would go near the pie when cooked and on no
account should the rats be full-grown as they are too strong in taste and smell.

06 02 03b

Thursday 9th February

1981

Cambridge City Football Club has crippling debts of about £65,000; this financial
millstone is a legacy from earlier days when the club had been run without any
administrative ability at all. A club, once the pride of Cambridge until United was
elected to the Football League in 1969, has now sunk into a virtual backwater. They
have gone 40 games without a win and attract about 200 spectators. But they have a
ground with a capacity of 17,000 that is the envy of most non-league clubs.

81 02 05b & c # c.38 : football

1956

The first instalment of the new ‘St Ivo School’ was opened. It comprises an
assembly hall, library, ten classrooms, science laboratory and specialist rooms for
art and craft, woodwork and housecraft. When completed it will accommodate 600 boys
and girls and provide ample accommodation for games and agricultural instruction

56 02 10

1931

A farmer told the bankruptcy court that he had rented Block Farm, Fordham from the
County Council. But the operations were very unsuccessful owing to the water on the
land. “When I took the land the County Council man said ‘There’s not a drop of
water on it’, but it was a dry time and when it was flooded you couldn’t walk
across it; you would sink in. I had acres and acres of corn all spoilt. Three or
four people at the place before I went there all went wrong”

31 02 13f-g

1906

Modern undergraduates’ dress is a neat disorder. Flannel trousers, brogues, a fancy

waistcoat, a shooting jacket and low golfing collar is the costume in which he
lounges into his lectures or goes to the theatre in the evening. Dons are hardly
known for their strict attention to the latest fashions but they have never known
men so careless in their dress before.

06 02 03b # c.36.9

Friday 10th February

1981

The new King 511 call box installed in Emmanuel Street, Cambridge is made of
transparent bronze acrylic attached to a strong central column. There is no door so
that users simply walk into the open canopy. British Telecom says it will curb
vandalism and is more attractive in a modern environment.

81 02 09a

1956

The persons in Saffron Walden most unpopular in police eyes are the motorist with
his car and the tradesmen with his van. During the past year traffic has increased
and the streets in the centre are too narrow and busy for the police to permit
obstruction by vehicles belonging to local businessmen and tradespeople who expect
to be able to park near their premises. As soon as the police clear one street
motorists obstruct others instead of using the car parks with which the town is so
adequately supplied.

56 02 10c & d

1931

The Over postman, Alfred Adams, complains of the neglected state of the village
byways. 50 years ago the old surveyors knew how to keep the main by-ways in repair
for they had use of gravel dug from the Bare Fens which the farmers carted. But now
Long Drove which led to the Boat Inn was almost impassable. The postman was
supposed to be able to cycle but now had to walk and farmers grumble as they cannot
get to their fields.

31 02 13h

1906

Most people have seen gas works and will remember the great gaping mouths of the
retorts, belching forth hungry flames and intense heat, where perspiring half-naked
men laboriously shovelled-in coal and at the end of the process raked the cokes out
under even more trying conditions. They could not work many hours at a stretch and
needed much beer. Contrast this with the De Bronwer method which now obtains at the
Cambridge gasworks and seems marvellously simple

06 02 07 & a & b # c.24.4

Looking Back, by Mike Petty

Monday 13th February

1981

Nuclear power can be produced more cheaply, safely and efficiently than
conventional forms of energy, claimed a technical officer at Sizewell speaking at
the Liberal Party conference in Cambridge. The media had created a ‘lop-sided view’
of safety and nuclear stations produced electricity at an average cost of 1.3p per
unit compared with 1.6p for coal-fired and 1.9p for oil fired stations. He warned
the party – whose conference voted against nuclear power – to be aware of the
‘Luddite syndrome’

81 02 09b

1956

An 82-feet long bog oak has been unearthed at Chear Farm, Stretham. The trunk was
over four feet wide and weighed over eight tons. It was cut into four sections
before being removed by tractor to Turpin’s woodyard in Cambridge where it will be
cut and dried. It will then be used to make specimen items of Old English joinery.
Only once before has bog oak been used in this way and the experiment was not very
successful.

56 02 08, 56 02 18b # STRETHAM

1931

Fire broke out in the house and bakery of Mr B.E. Trayner at Heydon. He was
awakened by a noise he took to be mice in the wall but then saw smoke and a red
glow under the skirting board. He found woodwork in the living room was alight. An
84-year-old lady was removed from the thatched cottage adjoining and neighbours
fought the flames; the task was made difficult by a nest of beams in the wall.

31 02 20a

1906

We deeply regret the death of Harry Cotterill Stearn of the famous Cambridge
photographic firm. He asked to be laid at rest in the new cemetery, Newmarket Road,
‘within sound of my work’ – the commotion caused by the University boat races where
for many years his slight figure has been familiar to successive generations of
undergraduates.

06 02 08a # c.65.5

Tuesday 14th February

1981

The health service in Cambridge is sliding £2.5 into the red and there will have to
be massive cuts in patient care as a result, with ward closures. It is overspent on
nurses’ salaries, drugs and increased fuel costs. But more money is to be spent on
the Papworth heart transplant programme where a new consultant will be appointed.

81 02 11

1956

A rent collector told the court he called at one hut at Bourn aerodrome and found
the meter had been broken open and some cash taken; more cash was missing from
other huts but at the hut occupied by the defendant’s mother, all was in order. A
coalman said he climbed through the windows of empty huts and took money from the
meters which he spent on chocolates and cigarettes. But Chesterton RDC should not
have left the meters in disused huts unemptied.

56 02 11a

1931

The treasurer of the Three Blackbirds Helping Hand Slate Club, Ely said the
secretary collected the weekly subscriptions from members and passed the money to
him. He kept it under the counter in a cigar box. But when he went for it before
the share-out it was missing. When he told the members it had not been a very
friendly meeting and they asked why it had not been banked. They gave him time to
find the money. He was committed for trial.

31 02 20c & d

1906

The consecration of the land acquired for an additional burial ground at Over was
performed by the Bishop. The need for an extra cemetery had been felt for some
time, all the spaces in the churchyard having been filled. The trustees of Over
town lands at length offered a piece ground adjoining the churchyard. The
neighbouring clergy were present in strength and a tea for 120 people was held in
the schoolroom.

06 02 08b

Wednesday 15th February

1981

A 10-year plan for Milton will see space for another 1,300 houses and 60 acres set
aside for industry. Milton was chosen because it has outstanding road links, the
potential for rail freight, good public transport, the availability of building
land because of the new roads and the proposed development of the country park.
There may be a substantial supermarket and the council must be urged to provide a
permanent branch library. When completed its population will have more than
doubled.

81 02 12 & a

1956

Pye’s new television camera is the first of its kind anywhere. It’s designed to see
inside a nuclear reactor and much ingenuity has gone into its manufacture. The
camera will not become radio-active, but the dust it collects from the inside of
the pile will be dangerous so it will be washed with detergent after use.

56 02 11b

1931

St Ives council discussed an application for the interment of a reverend gentleman

in the grounds of Madeley Court, Hemingford Grey. The Minster of Health has
approved it provided that only one burial took place. The gentleman concerned was
not yet dead but they had no power to stop the burial, however much they objected.

31 01 20e

1906

For some years the people attending the little Wesleyan chapel at the far end of
Mill Road, Cambridge, have been inconvenienced by lack of space due to the growth
of the neighbourhood. An idea has been afoot for some years to build a chapel to
seat 380 people on the ground adjoining the present building. The land has been
purchased and the plan is approaching maturity. It would not include a gallery at
first but they were confident this would soon be needed.

06 02 09a & b

Thursday 16th February

1981

Comberton Youth Centre’s disco team, winners of a national championship, will

appear before Prince and Princes Michael of Kent at a televised awards ceremony.
But the BBC has asked for their sexy routine to be toned down. The girls black
stockings and cami-knickers will be substituted for something less revealing and
the boy’s hairy chest covered up. They will also changed their name from ‘Scandal’
to ‘The Bodywork Company’

81 02 16 & a –

1956

Restorations to the sanctuary of St Andrew’s church, Cherry Hinton were dedicated

by the Bishop of Huntingdon. The oak reredos behind the altar has been removed and
the masonry restored. Memorial posts have been erected and altar curtains of blue
and gold hung and the strong-course has been restored. The work has cost £600.

56 02 13

1931

The four children of Sir Cecil and Lady Neuman had a narrow escape from death when
Burloes, their beautiful country residence just outside Royston, was entirely
destroyed by fire. The head nurse, Miss Curry, roused the household and got the
children to safely by means of a canvas fire escape chute from the night nursery.
The mansion, which was build 28 years ago, stood in a commanding position on a hill
and firemen were hampered by a lack of water. “Everything has gone, but the staff
behaved simply splendidly”, said her Ladyship.

31 02 20f & g & h # c.61.7

1906

The extraordinary weather was experienced in all its bewildering variety. Thunder,
lightning, hail, snow and a hurricane provided a new experience. Many pedestrians
were blown over by the wind which swept over the mill at Chippenham with such
suddenness that before the sails could be adjusted, the top of the mill was blown
off. The storm travelled at a remarkable pace. It took less than an hour to travel
from Leicester to Cambridge.

06 02 09c # c.12

Friday 17th February

1981

Tommy Cooper is one of the funniest men in showbusiness. Ostensibly a magician, his
tricks go wrong, his impressions awful, and his gags as old as the hills: I went to
the doctor. I said, ‘I’ve got a bad foot, what shall I do?’ He said, ‘Limp.’ They
get worse as the act progresses yet he creased the audience at the Cambridge Sports
Hall with laughter. Any comedian who can perform virtually the same act for more
than three decades has to be admired.

81 12 16b

1956

Since 1947 the Great Ouse River Board has spent £950,000 on strengthening and
heightening the banks in the south level in their aim to prevent a recurrence of
disastrous floods. Part one of the scheme involved the cutting of a relief channel
from Denver to King’s Lynn. Part two: the strengthening and heightening of the
banks of the Ten Mile River and the deepening of the river will begin this summer
and part three, a cut-off channel around the edge of the fens will start a year or
two later. But engineers are still not satisfied that if the same conditions
reoccurred there would not be a break somewhere

56 02 14c # c.2