From our archives:

85 years ago

The Princess Royal and the Earl of Harewood were present at the Harrogate Agricultural show which opened in fine weather.

After watching several hours of the Hunter classes the Princess then went on to present the trophies to the successful winners.

Speaking at a following luncheon the Earl of Harewood said that it was with regret that the voice of the English farmer seemed to be heard imperfectly at the Ottawa Conference.

He suggested that the farmer should strengthen his claim by a united voice through the National Farmers’ Union.

According to the “Maid in Mayfair” column, the fashion for hair in Paris was no longer that of a “platinum” blonde, with a broad streak of natural coloured hair right across the top of the head.

The “bandeau” as it was called was now reversed, with women making haste to get back to nature.

50 years ago

Dozens of Army shooters from all over Yorkshire took part in the annual Yorkshire Brigade Rifle shoot at Strensall camp.

The men, warrant officers and sergeants, represented companies from the Hallamshires, the Leeds Rifles, the Yorkshire Volunteers and the Yorkshire Brigade Depot at Strensall.

Some of them had only recently returned from competing in the Army shoot at Bisley.

A record crowd attended a gala organised by York Cricket, Rugby Union and Tennis Club held for the first time at Shipton Road, York.

With an attendance of more than 2,500, a profit of £20 had been made, thanks to the new venue.

The children’s fancy dress competition was won by ten year-old Tony Kisby, from Acomb, and other attractions included a tug-of-war contest and a baseball demonstration by an American Air Force team.

20 years ago

Coal baron Richard Budge and Labour MP John Grogan had teamed up to launch a Save Our Pits campaign, amid growing fears for the future of the giant Selby complex and the industry as a whole.

The RJB Mining chief executive then went on to met Mr Grogan at Riccall Mine to discuss their next move in what they both described as a fight for survival.

A 13-year-old pooch stole the limelight at Thornton-le-Dale show when she sported a pair of sunglasses while walking with her owner.

The show sizzled in a mini-heatwave that was continuing in York and North Yorkshire.