100 Years Ago May 6, 1905

There seems to be a general impression that the yield of plums in the Vale of Evesham will not be by any means large, despite the plentiful blossom. We have, fortunately, been spared the severe frosts of two years ago, but we have been favoured with a continuance of very cold north-easterly winds, and these have had the effect of checking the flow of sap, with the consequent result that the fruit buds have not set, and have already commenced to fall. Prolifics and Victorias are big sufferers in this respect, but we have not by any means seen the extent of the damage yet. Asparagus, too, has been retarded, and the supply in the local markets has not been nearly so large as it should be at this time of year.

75 Years Ago

May 3, 1930

Several novel innovations in the ever-changing world of Milady's dress were revealed at two very largely attended mannequin parades held at the Town Hall, Evesham, on Thursday in connection with the firm of R. W. Righton, Evesham. An attractive outfit for the slim figure was a blue wool three-piece comprising a Royal blue skirt and cardigan, and a jumper quartered in huge pale and dark blue squares reminiscent of a football shirt. The matron mannequin looked especially dignified in a navy ensemble which indicated the return to popularity of ostrich feathers, and a very becoming gown for the woman of ample proportions was of black lace, long-skirted worn with a black straw, velvet draped hat trimmed with an osprey.

50 Years Ago

May 7, 1955

Rebuilding of Pershore Lock-the most ambitious and expensive restoration job yet attempted by the Lower Avon Navigation Trust-is due to begin this week. First the lock will be isolated from the river by dams of steel piling. Then it will be pumped dry, and the Trust's consulting engineer, Mr. J. Botteley, will inspect the bottom with the contractors. The lock will be deepened, the foundations of Old Pershore Bridge, just below it, will be lowered and the derelict water gate at Pensham will be demolished. Of the £11,137 required for the contract, £6.500 has been given by the "Mrs. Smith Trust" - a mysterious philanthropic body which gives large sums to charity but only on condition that its anonymity is protected.