THE ARCHIVES

100 years ago

A correspondent telegraphs: “Yesterday the Lutterworth, the fifth vessel to arrive at Hull with repatriated prisoners, brought 250 soldiers back to their homeland. This brings the total for the port to 4,500. The latest arrivals include Clement Fursdon, a motor despatch rider from Bristol. Fursdon had made 10 attempts to escape from Germany. He was captured in August 1914, but was able to destroy his cycle. He was sentenced to 21 months’ imprisonment.”

50 years ago

The Scottish Secretary, Mr William Ross, told the Commons yesterday that there would be a full enquiry into the Glasgow fire at a former whisky store on Monday in which 22 people died. Mr Ross added in reply to questions from some MPs: “There are some rather disturbing and very anguishmaking facets to this disaster. We can provide for everything except human error and, if we find there are lessons to be learned from this by other people, they will be learned.”

25 years ago

Children’s party performer Magical Mac has discovered a new use for his sleight of hand skills – helping keep death off the road. John Fox, of Carnoustie, is hoping that his conjuring tricks will contribute to the road safety education of the town’s children. His ideas have had a welcome reception from nurseries and schools and it is anticipated that the police will incorporate John’s act into their own programme next year. Mr Fox uses coloured silks and puppets in the show.

One year ago

Angus Council is seeking clarity on the powers of its parking wardens after its policy was described as “bizarre”. Community wardens have been banned from tackling other issues – such as litter or dog fouling – while they are on parking duty. The council said the move is to comply with the Road Traffic Regulations Act 1984. However, local anti-litter campaigners have said it is a waste of public resources and have taken advice from the Scottish Government on what the law actually requires.