20 YEARS AGO

● The Queen’s representative in Derbyshire, John Bather of Longford, and Ashbourne baker Brian Bates were chosen to turn up the Shrovetide balls in 1999. The pair said they were delighted with the honour and could not wait for their respective big days.

● Lady Hilton, a passionate supporter of Shrovetide, was invited to a ceremony to commission the game’s new plinth, which was being built at the entrance to Shaw Croft Car Park.