FROM this newspaper 100 years ago. - The fashions of today indicate the return of the dandy of the early Victorian era. An up-to-date overcoat is made to fit tightly to the figure round the waist, with a loose skirt and a broad collar with large lapels. The tall hat is becoming bell-shaped and its brim is curved. Painted leather boots are to be long and audaciously pointed. Gaudy cardigan jackets are also coming into vogue. It is no secret that the man of fashion has for some time worn corsets, which are to be tighter than ever. The fashion in collars has changed. Now instead of the turnover, a high, straight collar with round-tipped points is in vogue, necessitating a larger cravat.

From this newspaper 50 years ago. - If all goes well for plans now being made, February 5 next year will be a bad day for wood pigeons in the North Riding. On that day it is hoped to have guns out in every parish of the riding so that the raiding pigeons get no chance to settle and feed, and thus become easier targets when they make their way to the woods for the night. This is the first whole-county day's shoot ever held in the north, though similar drives against the pests have been held further south. The chairman of the Pests Action Committee, Mr. G. R. P. Wilson of Cliffe Hall, said on Tuesday that the number of wood pigeons has increased out of all proportion in recent years and he hoped the day's shoot would be a "real blitz." The necessity for such action is indicated by the damage that the greedy vegetarians do to farms, especially to new leys, clover, kale and turnip tops, and later to beans and peas.

From this newspaper 25 years ago. - The traditional Christmas scene was set on Saturday when snowflakes fell prior to the opening of the Christmas fair organised by members of the Guisborough branch of the Cleveland and Whitby Conservative Association. The Fair was opened by Lady Elliot, wife of Sir William Elliot, MP for Newcastle North, accompanied by local councillors. To the background of Christmas music the visitors could buy from the well-stocked toy stall, home produce and handicrafts, cakes and white elephant, while the avid reader could browse through a very large library of hard and paperbacks. Father Christmas (Mr. T. Hopwood) was at home to children and adults.