THE ARCHIVES

100 years ago

M. Konovaloff, Minister of Commerce and Industry, stated in an interview that free Russia must look for support from the workmen and industrial organisations, the exchanges and professional institutions; in short from all these organisations whose establishments had been hindered under the old regime. The insufficiency of the supply of fuel and metals, he said, has become a serious problem and the Government has centralised the control of the supply of those materials to factories.

50 years ago

Scottish Secretary will “carefully consider” any plan to withdraw passenger services from the railway line between Thornton Junction and Leven. Sir John Gilmour MP for East Fife, was told this in a reply to a question to the Minister of Transport about rail problems in East Fife. A Ministry spokesman said he understood the Railways Board intended to put forward a proposal to withdraw passenger services on the line. It is intended to maintain freight services on the line to Methil.

25 years ago

Radio and TV personality Nicky Campbell followed tradition by arriving in unorthodox style at St Andrews University to mark his installation as rector. The Radio One presenter rode through the West Port archway on horseback dressed as a knight in shining armour – a pun on his radio show Into The Night. He will be installed as rector today and yesterday saw the start of celebrations when he was dragged through the streets of the town in an open coach pulled by university sports blues.

One year ago

Dundee University has received a record number of applications for places. The university has received more than 21,000 applications for 2016-17, up 5% from the year before. The deluge had meant it has taken the university longer to issue offers to prospective students. A spokesman said all offers would be made by the May 5 deadline. Professor Karl Leydecker, vice-president (learning and teaching) said: “We are delighted but not surprised by the significant increase.”