Saturday, March 18, 2006

100 years ago

The craze for sensationalism was unfortunately on the increase. Those who had to be entertained and amused did not find the bill of fare served at a place of entertainment exciting enough unless it included several items in the performance in which the artiste courted death for the delectation of his audience. The latest rebuke to the sensation-loving public came from Mr Justice Darling, who had to deal with an action brought by a young lady who was injured in a "looping the loop" act. "This is a civilised country," said his lordship, "which we are proud to think is more civilised than any other country. But, being more highly civilised than any other country, we do not allow girls to 'loop the loop' and perform tricks of that kind, as it does occasionally occur that they fracture their skulls. Thus it is that, while the law protects an animal from cruel treatment for the purpose of entertainment, it gives no power to put a stop to exhibitions in which the performer is in danger of losing his life at any moment, so long as the public cares to patronise them."

50 years ago

Members of the Royal Observer Corps, in all parts of Yorkshire, went to the pictures for the master test in aircraft recognition, which was held annually throughout the country. York was again one of the examination centres, and 350 voluntary members of the corps took the test at the Odeon Cinema in an effort to gain the coveted Spitfire Badge for proficiency in aircraft recognition. The candidates saw a specially made film, which gave fleeting glimpses of over 30 types of modern aircraft which they were required to identify, and were then given a written test.

25 years ago

Firms within a York conservation area were to challenge the planners. They would fight plans to slap compulsory purchase orders on remaining industrial land in Aldwark. If the orders went through they would complete the acquisition of land for the Aldwark scheme -- Lord Esher's conservation blueprint for regenerating York's historic core. Among the objectors would be L Clancey and Sons, scrap merchants, of St Andrewgate and Murton Sidings. The firm had been in St Andrewgate since it was founded by the family 120 years before. "The city has been trying to get the site off us for the last 20 years," said Mr Jim Clancey. "We successfully resisted one compulsory purchase order and we will fight this one as well -- but we're not so sure this time how successful it will be." Mr Clancey accused council planners of "trying to drive all industry out of York. If they do drive people like us out, it won't be long before the city is dead."

Updated: 16:46 Friday, March 17, 2006