THE ARCHIVES

100 years ago That the City Architect should go back to a type of house prevalent a generation ago and condemned as not being conducive to modern ideas of privacy and comfort is a surprise. This criticism is one of many from the directors of the Dundee Landlords’ and House Factors’ Association on the proposals for municipal housing which Mr James Thomson has submitted to the Town Council. They say he has failed to take into account the desire of the Scottish housewife for a “ben room” or parlour. 50 years ago Britain and the United States have announced plans to withdraw 40,000 troops and more than 100 supersonic combat aircraft from West Germany beginning next January 1. Britain proposes to withdraw some 5,000 men from BAOR and one aircraft squadron. The plans were worked out with the aim of reducing the heavy balance of payments costs to Britain and the US of maintaining large military forces in Germany. Advantages to the balance of payments would amount to £20 million. 25 years ago A brave Perth man and his son spoke last night about their terrifying ordeal at the hands of a shotgun-wielding masked man. Mr Zygmunt Skorupa (44) told how he grabbed the double barrel shotgun as the man aimed it at him and threatened him. The incident happened at Murrayshall Country House Hotel on the outskirts of Scone as Mr Skorupa and his son, also Zygmunt (23) left their work, as kitchen porters, for the night. They were walking to the car park when they were confronted. One year ago A “drugs den” featuring burnt spoons, discarded needles and used condoms has been discovered in an Angus beauty spot well-used by dog walkers and children. Station Woods in Kirriemuir is regularly used by children to catch their bus to school and is also popular with walkers and bikers. Discarded needles have been cleared away three times in the past six months and people who use the route are urged to be vigilant. Needles were removed quickly by Angus Council’s rapid response team.