27-04-2025
What was making the news on the Isle of Wight on this week in the past?
The Isle of Wight County Press has been bringing the news to Islanders since 1884. We've delved into the archives to find out what was happening in days gone by.
125 years ago, in April 1900:
A butcher was charged with playing football with a lawn tennis ball in South Street, Newport, with a group of other lads. Fining him 1s 4d (7p), the mayor reiterated that the bench was determined to stop the streets being used for ball games, as invalids were afraid to go out.
100 years ago, in April 1925:
Read more:
Dog hitches ride to Newport on bus: Stories from days gone by
'Destructive' fire in Wroxall and more in days gone by
The first day of official summer time the previous Sunday was far from summer-like, with a drenching rain and clouds so thick that people had to put their lights on indoors.
There were several angry letters from readers residing in Newport High Street, who had finally had enough of motorists continually sounding their horns as they entered the area. One correspondent was of the opinion that most of them did it merely to draw attention to the fact that they were car-owners.
75 years ago, in April 1950:
Work commenced on another of Uffa Fox's well-known 'Flying' series of boats, this time the Flying 35. The yacht was to be built as a special order for a customer in Dublin.
Also building new craft were Messrs. Clare Lallow, of Cowes, who had orders for four new Dragon yachts and staff at Saunders-Roe, who were working on an all-metal, medium-range flying boat.
The annual Clergy Golf Championship took place at Sandown golf course and the winner was The Rev. Royds of St. John's Church, Newport, who brought the Archdeacon's Trophy back to the Island after some years away.
50 years ago, in April 1975:
Yarmouth lifeboatmen highlighted the need for a faster. lifeboat after spending over ten hours in force seven gales trying to locate and rescue a couple whose boat was in trouble off St Catherine's Point.
Weeks Regency Restaurant, which had been open in Newport High Street for 65 years, closed its doors for the last time. The 400-seater restaurant with its large adjoining ballroom was the only such venue on the Island.
