THE ARCHIVES

100 years ago

Mr John Kirkcaldy, burgh surveyor of Cupar, died with tragic suddenness last night while at his post as a member of the Fire Brigade at a hydrant at The Cross during the progress of a fire in the oil store belonging to Bailie R. Dott Thomson, ironmonger. He was found to have died of heart failure.Mr Kirkcaldy was 65 years of age, a native of Cupar, and had held the post of burgh surveyor and water engineer for 27 years. He was a valuable public servant. His wife and five sons survive him.

50 years ago

Dundee Housing Committee decided last night that cookers will not be provided in new corporation houses after March 6. The estimated saving is £100,000 a year. The decision, which is subject to confirmation by the Town Council, will bring Dundee into line with the other Scottish cities. Agreements with the Hydro-Electric and Gas Boards for the supply of Whitfield fourth development and Barnhill second development, which were to be let in the near future, would be honoured.

25 years ago

A US brewer may possibly take over the Dewar’s bottling plant at Inveralmond, Perth. Perth and Kinross economic development committee convener John MacKay told a meeting in Perth that an initial approach had been made by a US drinks producer. Dan Kopman, an American based in Edinburgh, who represents a St Louis-based brewing company, made the move. He is said to be impressed by the set-up at Inveralmond. It is not known how many jobs would be created.

One year ago

Teachers and environmental services could bear the brunt of more than £40 million of council cutbacks, it has emerged. Around 160 local authority jobs are under threat as Perth and Kinross Council attempts to slash spending over the next three years. Changes to maths and English class sizes could see the loss of around 23 secondary school staff, and 26 primary posts could go. Papers released ahead of next week’s budget talks reveal recommendations to close down all but two recycling centres.