From our archives:

 

85 years ago

Congratulations were pouring in for Mr James Mollison and Miss Amy Johnson, two of the world’s most famous fliers, on their engagement to marry.

The engagement came as a complete surprise even to intimate friends.

Miss Johnson revealed to a “Yorkshire Herald” representative that it had only been arranged within the last two or three days.

Seeming radiantly happy, when the reporter offered his congratulations, she replied, “Thank you very much. Mr Mollinson is a great fellow, and I have the highest admiration for him.”

Mr Winston Churchill, resumed the debate on the motion for the second reading of the Finance Bill.

According to the Chancellor taxation had already reached levels which were not only burdensome but destructive, not only for revenue, but also for trade and employment.

 

50 years ago

The appeal fund to save York Minster was nearing a quarter of the way towards its £2 million target with a total of £305,520.

Lord Scarborough announced some more good news at the launch of the appeal, adding that in addition to the £305,520, the West Riding County Council would also consider a recommendation of £200,000 in instalments.

A £200,000 scheme which could have seen York with seven bars and three restaurants under the same roof had been shelved, “at least for the time being", according to Mr Cockerill, joint managing director of Berni Inns Ltd, who was speaking at the opening of a new Berni steak bar at the Black Bull, Hull Road, York.

 

20 years ago

With the release of thousands of balloons into the air above Bishopthorpe Palace, the Archbishop of York launched a national appeal for a cot death research charity.

Dr David Hope opened the gates of his palace to host a spring fete in aid of the Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths.

Maypole dancing, a brass band, a dancing display, clowns, magicians and stallholders were all on hand, despite the rain, to help make the event a success.

What a weekend for Whitby! First the life-size replica of Captain James Cook’s HMS Bark Endeavour arrived to celebrate the explorer’s links with the port.

And then 7,000 fans of Whitby Town FC went to Wembley to cheer on the local lads to a 3-0 victory over North Ferriby United to lift the FA Vase.