THE ARCHIVES

100 years ago

It is understood that the Prime Minister had the satisfaction of hearing yesterday the report of the terrific mine explosion with with yesterday’s offensive on the western front opened. Preparation for the event was naturally of long standing, and when the plans were perfected notice was given privately of the exact hour at which it was proposed to carry them into execution. Accordingly, Lloyd George, who was staying at Walton Heath, gave orders that he wished to be called at 3am to hear it.

50 years ago

Eighty-five year old James McHardy arrived back in Dundee last night at the end of a 1,000-mile trip which had taken him under 12 hours. Between 8.25am and 8.50pm Mr McHardy visited both Abbotsinch Airport, Glasgow and Heathrow, London, to achieve his ambition of flying in a jet. After his trip Mr McHardy admitted that he was “like a bird after a long flight – a wee bit tired”. All through the winter he had been saving for the trip and commented: “I could live on a jet. I’d go back tomorrow.”

25 years ago

A shopkeeper who was digging his carrot patch unearthed the remains of a Viking house and discovered a missing piece of Shetland’s past. Nic Boxall’s gardening has been put on hold until archaeologists decide whether to excavate the site as it could be one of the most significant island finds for years. Mr Boxall (28), who only came to the island of Fetlar from Cheshire with his wife Lyn and daughters in April, was surprised when he came across the 11th Century artefacts.

One year ago

An under-threat sports club is hoping for an Andy Murray boost as it launches a make-or-break appeal for volunteers. Committee members at Luncarty Tennis Club said the group urgently needs new adult helpers to survive, amid fears that it could be forced to shut down and sell its site for housing. The Perthshire-based organisation is hoping the success of Dunblane tennis star Murray will generate fresh interest. Hundreds of letters appealing for help have been delivered to households.