A look back at Hexham Courant headlines, featuring fires, a bishop couple, budget news, and more from years gone by.
Also, a local vicar got a big promotion then. Alison White became a female bishop of Hull. Her husband was already a bishop in Newcastle. They became the only bishop couple globally.
Twenty-five years ago, a fire happened at Egger. Workers left as flames engulfed the plant. Chipboard dust caused an explosion that started the blaze. Firefighters from all over responded to it.
Also then, Hexham shops needed cheer. The mayor asked them to smile more. She wanted shops to be more welcoming. Teachers faced job cuts due to budget problems.
Budget news wasn’t all bad in Tynedale. Central government gave more money than expected. Tynedale Council did not have to make cuts.
Fifty years ago, a train line fate was unsure. People tried to save the Haltwhistle-Alston line. They met with an environment secretary. Also at this time, Hadrian’s Wall got busier. A conservation plan was created for it. It cost £24,000 to implement that plan. Cheap bus fares were also cancelled for some.
Seventy-five years ago, Whittington got electricity. Older people learned to use light switches. They previously used oil lamps for centuries. Rate increases met protest in Prudhoe.
One hundred years ago, a cyclist got a ticket. He rode without a light in Haydon Bridge. He lacked matches to relight the lamp. Haltwhistle Fire Brigade sent a bill for putting out a farm fire.
One hundred and twenty-five years ago, Hexham showed its spirit. It sent many volunteers into South Africa. Miss Benson sent woollen goods to soldiers. These things were mainly shirts and socks.
One hundred and fifty years ago, Hexham had bad weather. A gale blew down slates and chimneys. One chimney fell on sleeping servants. Also, Hexham’s health wasn’t good due to sewage.