100 years ago

The Highland Society of London had decided to promote a memorial to the late Lord Archibald Campbell for the service he had rendered in connection with the preservation of traditions of emblems dear to Highlanders.

An appeal had been issued, signed by the president, the Marquis of Bute, which stated: “It cannot be forgotten that the intentions of successive Governments or official authorities to abolish the feather bonnet, the regimental tartans, and even the kilt itself, as the distinctive national dress of our Highland regiments were defeated by the public action of Lord Archibald Campbell, supported by the indignant and united hostility, not only of Highlan-ders, but of many others interested in the preservation of racial traditions and national emblems.”

 

50 years ago

The Castle Museum’s restored harpsichord was being tuned in readiness for the part it would play in the Carols in Kirkgate concert.

Because of the immense popularity of this concert the previous year, when more than 300 people had gathered in the ‘street’, it had been decided to hold the event on two evenings, each performance beginning at 8pm. Admission by programme would be free and a collection would be made in aid of Oxfam.

Adding to the atmosphere would be a liberal sprinkling of powdery ‘snow’ on window ledges and cobbles, and concealed lighting effects. Singing would be led by the 30-strong York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir and 15 boys from Beckfield School Choir.

The music was to be directed by Richard B Lister and the 12-piece orchestra of violins, viola, cello, harpsichord and oboe, would be led by Ronald Easey, Peter Blanchard would be the reader, responsible for continuity, and the producer Stanley Davey.

 

25 years ago

The Government had been urged to call off the sale of British Rail Engineering in the wake of the Clapham train disaster.

Many rail workers in York believed the proposed sell-off should be abandoned amid the public clamour for safer trains. British Rail was denying that the withdrawal of seven York trains after a safety alert would lead to dangerous overcrowding. The chairman of York Federation of Rail Unions, Mr Tony Walton said: “I cannot believe they are going to sell off an asset like BREL at a time when there is going to be a massive demand for new rolling stock. I would love to see the buy-out not take place.”

An inquiry into the triple crash at Clapham was expected to conclude that overcrowding was a factor in the high number of casualties. There could be political pressure on BR to build more trains as soon as possible.