From our archives:

85 years ago

The following statement was issued by the BBC: “Some weeks ago the BBC received a proposal for the production of a radio play based on the Titanic disaster.

"The motive was to emphasise the heroism of British people in moments of crisis. Statements to some newspapers that it had been decided to proceed with production were untrue, the idea not having been advanced beyond the preliminary stage of a synopsis for consideration.

"The suggested programme has been considered in the ordinary course, and it is not acceptable.”

Speeches were limited to five minutes at the annual dinner of the York and District Licensed Victuallers’ and Beersellers’ Association, at the Windmill Hotel, York.

The penalty for an infringement of the rule was “drinks all round”.

There was an attendance of nearly 150, and as each speaker kept his eye on his watch the fine was never imposed.

50 years ago

Gales and storms had lashed most of Western Europe, killing 33 people and leaving a trail of roofless buildings, uprooted trees, broken windows and flooded streets.

The Evening Press Aberfan Disaster Fund, announced it had raised a final grand total of £5,027 13s 8d. All the money had been sent to the Mayor of Merthyr Tydfil’s Aberfan Disaster Fund.

A dream had come true for two 14-year-old boys, when they were given a car by a York firm of motor engineers.

The two boys mad on cars had clubbed together their pocket money to spend on an advertisement in the Evening Press which read: "Two 14-year-old car enthusiasts would like to meet a person who has an old car to give away in or near to working order.”

Within 24 hours of the advertisement the boys had an offer of a 1950 Ford Prefect.

20 years ago

A York school one regarded as the city’s worst, had announced it was seeking to become North Yorkshire’s first Sports College.

Now staff, governors and pupils at Burnholme Community College faced a race against time to raise £100,000 to ensure the exciting dream became a reality.

The Spice Girls capped a year of unprecedented success by winning two major honours at the Brit Awards.

The five girl group, who had topped the charts in 31 countries, hit the big time when they reached number one in the United States with their first single, a feat that eluded the Beatles.