THE ARCHIVES

100 years ago

A Dundee soldier who has been engaged in the severe fighting in France sends a pen-picture to a friend. He writes: “Early the next day we were on the march, and after a time left the beaten highway and crossed the open ground , the scene of the battle. To us, who had long viewed the ground from afar, the scene was most interesting. Here were the trenches where we had so often seen the enemy at work; there, battered beyond recognition, the little churchyard with its tall crucifix.”

50 years ago

Two hundred and seventy handicapped children spent a day at Craigtoun Park, St Andrews, which they won’t forget for a long time. In the sunshine, they sailed on the lake, rode on the fairy trains and had a scrumptious high tea in the Victoria Cafe. The children left Lochee High Street in five buses – supplied free by Mr James Thomson, Lochee – 15 cars, a minibus and shooting brake. Many were crossing the road bridge for the first time. Leading light behind the outing is Mr John Wright.

25 years ago

Scotland and their fans ended the European Championship in Sweden on a celebratory high with a superb 3-0 victory over the CIS in Norrkoping last night. With the pipes playing, the fans danced and sang in fiesta mood. It was an impressive double victory in Sweden, according to Tayside’s deputy chief constable Bill Spence. The team’s performance on the park was matched by the fans’ exuberant but impeccable behaviour – making them the most popular supporters in Europe.

One year ago

Angus councillors have backed a scheme to drop a half-day from secondary school timetables. The move, which will see pupils leave early on Wednesdays, will cost the council an extra £370,000 a year to lay on extra school buses. But this will be met via savings from a “more efficient staffing model”. It is hoped that the “half day” will allow pupils to undertake activities, like sport, volunteering or work experience. The council had originally been asked to name Friday as the candidate for change.