100 years ago

Two pictures were on view at the library meeting on Tuesday. One was a view of Malvern from the railway bridge. In the original advertisement, it was described as Malvern in 1836, but as the chairman pointed out, that was a mistake, for in 1836 there was no railway bridge, no Imperial Hotel and no college, although these all figured in the picture. The other picture was a drawing of the interior of the Priory Church. Malvern Gazette, December 1, 1905.

On Saturday night, at 7.30pm, The Royal Hall in Ledbury was packed with buyers who were eager to secure bargains, as well as assist the funds of Ledbury Cricket Club. Bargains there were to be had. There are always bargains on such occasions. Saddles at 3d found no purchaser, and even dress coats at 6d a pair failed to attract buyers. The Cricket Club is richer by £12.10s. Wonderful, isn't it? Ledbury Free Press, December 5, 1905.

50 years ago

Ledbury Fire Brigade were called out to rescue a black and white cat from the top of a telegraph pole in Colwall. The cat had been up the pole for about two days, resisting all attempts to lure it down. With the aid of a ladder, they soon had the stranded animal down from the 34-foot pole, apparently none the worse for its adventure. Malvern Gazette, December 2, 1955.

During the severe winter of 1947, the neighbouring village of Eastnor was cut off by an 18ft snowdrift in March. The villagers were in danger of being without bread. I am reminded that the late Mr George Mullins, whose untimely death is recorded in these columns, organised a rescue party, including himself, and obtained five sledges, taking one hour to cover two miles, with 100 loaves. Ledbury Reporter, December 2, 1955.

25 years ago

Any revival of trade in Malvern town centre must hinge on improved car parking facilities, says a local councillor who has attacked the district council's "apathy" over the problem. "I don't think they realise what's going on," said Coun Mrs Ros Underwood. "They bury their heads in the sand. And yet there is simply not enough parking spaces to go round." Malvern Gazette, December 4, 1980.

A new rumpus has broken out over Ledbury Swimming Pool, which is now in need of repair for the fourth time since it opened, less than seven years ago. The pool will now have to be closed for one month, from December 21. Ledbury Rep-orter, December 4, 1980.