THESE stories were making Herald headlines in 1935, 1960 and 1985.

75 years ago

SIDMOUTH Parish Social was held on Thursday evening and proved as successful as any that the hard-working organisers have arranged. A well balanced programme of instrumental and vocal music was presented, and it was pleasing to note many new artists.

A VERY fine exhibition of rugby was witnessed at the County Ground, Exeter, during the Exeter v Sidmouth match on Saturday last. The final score of 24 points to six in favour of the home side (who thus avenged their defeat at Sidmouth earlier in the season) is by no means a true reflex of the play, in fact there was never more than six points margin between the two sides on the run of the game.

50 years ago

THE Boys’ Brigade 1st Sidmouth Company have given a display in the Manor Pavilion when Sgt Robert J Davies was awarded the Queen’s Badge; this is the second Queen’s Badge to be awarded to boys of this company. Leo Lewis, ex-President of the West of England, presented the badge and inspected the company. Twenty-nine boys and five officers paraded, and a fine display was given to more than 200 parents and friends.

Sidbury Rifle Club held their annual Christmas Whist Drive in Sidbury Village Hall. There were more than 30 prizes, which included two turkeys for the highest score lady and gentleman, and a goose to be won in the competition.

25 years ago

A “BRAIN drain” is taking place at Sidmouth College as the national trend for teachers to embark on new careers gathers pace in the face of the long-running pay dispute, it was claimed this week. Michael Owen, the headmaster, has warned the college’s governors that the declining standards of salary and status for teachers will lead to enormous national problems in the future.

SIDMOUTH Regatta Committee has a new chairman, Barry Lister, who, following his election at the annual meeting on Monday, said he hoped next year’s event would be the best ever in terms of money raised and the enjoyment of local people. Mr Lister thanked his predecessor, Stuart Beesley, saying: “He took on the job at a very crucial time for the regatta and it’s thanks to his efforts that this year’s events were so successful.”