From our archives:

85 years ago

Damage estimated at £1,500 had been caused by a fire at the Harewood Garage, Thornaby. Seven motor vehicles, three private cars, two motor lorries and two motor cycles, had been destroyed in a portion of the building that had been used for the purpose of private garaging by individual owners. Fanned by the wind the flames had risen to a great height and licked the woodwork of an untenanted house at the opposite side of the roadway. The wedding of Squadron Leader Ivo Wilfred Home Thomson and Miss Sybil Marguerite Thompson had taken place at St Helen’s Church, Escrick, in the presence of a large and fashionable congregation. The heavy rain however, didn’t manage dampen the spirits of the congregation, thanks to a large awning and red carpet. And Goole’s Amateur Dramatic Society had received a good reception from its audience during their performance of Ian Hay’s popular navel comedy, “The Middle Watch.”

50 years ago

Britain had been placed on a high flood alert after heavy rains had caused major disruptions to businesses, traffic and sport across the nation. In York, black skies, torrential rain, and high winds had greeted its sleepy residents. Water levels had risen above the tow path near Museum Gardens and by mid-morning York Rugby League Club had confirmed that that their match against Leeds had been postponed due to the state of Headingley’s ground. In Thirsk, work was commencing nicely on the new distribution centre for menswear firm Austin Reed. The project which consisted of an office block, with single and two storey units and a warehouse was expected to take a total of 44 weeks. And a power cut in the city of Recife, Brazil, meant that the Queen had to her greet guests by candlelight during a reception marking the start of her Latin American tour.

20 years ago

Bonfire night revellers had been warned not to let off potentially dangerous Catherine Wheels, some of which had been reported to fall from their mounts. According to trading standers officers more than a 11,000 of faulty fireworks had possibly been imported into the country. And police were trying to identify a cultured conman who claimed to have close links with the Queen Mother’s racing circle, using her name to hook hapless punters and persuade them to part with thousands.