100 years ago

December 29, 1900

STRATFORD: William Sutton, who drives the mail from Stratford to Shipston, was returning to the former place on Monday night when approaching Alscot Park, he pulled up, thinking that someone wished to hand letters to him. Instead, however, three men severely assaulted him, and finding there were no mails in the van, immediately made off.

75 years ago

December 26, 1925

Stratford: Board of Guardians: The number of inmates was reported to be 133, last Board-day 132, and the corresponding period last year. Vagrants relieved since the last meeting 505, last year 563, a decrease of 58.

50 years ago

December 30, 1950

Stratford: They say it was one of the coldest Christmases of the century. Sharp frost had followed the snow. It cut down sport - a brisk walk was the best recreation and at Stratford many strode out on Boxing morning to see the hounds meet outside the old Garrick Inn. It made the fireside the most popular place in the world. On Christmas morning, the Mayor and Mayoress accompanied by the uniformed beadle toured hospitals, maternity homes and almshouses with gifts and greetings.

25 years ago

December 25, 1975

Stratford: Conservationists at Wellesbourne campaigning to stop unwanted housing development may have to fight their battle again. Two months after the rejection of an appeal against planning refusal, a new application has been submitted.