Here is a selection of Herald stories from 75, 50 and 25 years ago

75 years ago

SERIOUS inconvenience, especially in the Christmas shopping area, was caused last night by the sudden failure of the electric lighting system. The light went out soon after 7pm and was not completely restored until two hours later.

THE annual concert given by the children of the Sidbury Church of England School is an event eagerly looked forward to. Every available space in the village hall was filled on Tuesday evening and a number of people were unable to obtain admittance. The headmaster said it was very gratifying to see so many present. The funds were to be used to pay for the installation of electric light in the school, which was badly needed as until now there had been no artificial light in the school.

50 years ago

SIDMOUTH Sea Rangers’ bazaar held at Church House on Saturday last raised �22. As this was the first effort of its kind the proceeds were very encouraging. Thanks to all the parents and friends who contributed and supported the sale. The prizes were won by Miss A Buttle, Mrs Tyson, Mrs Fisher, Mrs Pollard and Mrs Sinnott.

MEMBERS and friends of Sidmouth British Legion women’s section enjoyed a very happy Christmas party at the Old Meeting Schoolroom, when guests were members of the Sidbury and Sidford branch. A life membership certificate and badge was presented by the president Mrs Campbell Watson to Mrs B M Channing in recognition of her loyal and devoted service in carrying the Branch Standard for 22 years.

25 years ago

SIDMOUTH Carnival this week officially joined the East Devon carnival circuit and organisers promised that next year’s event would be the richest in the district. Sidmouth has a lot to gain from joining the carnival club but chairman Bruce Langton believes the advantages are far from one-sided. After Sidmouth was voted on to the circuit at a meeting in Colyton last week, he said: “Sidmouth is contributing to the circuit already.”

FOR only the second time in a decade, Sidmouth builder Terry Furzey has had his beard and moustache removed – but only after more than �80 was pledged for charity. He raised �83.40 for the Sid Vale Appeal Group of the Royal National Institute for the Blind. It will be allocted to the Sunshine Fund for Blind Babies.