FROM this newspaper 100 years ago. - Darlington workhouse entered by burglars: On Tuesday morning a daring burglary was perpetrated at the Workhouse. It was shortly after seven o'clock that Mr Weakner entered his office, and was unpleasantly surprised to find his Masonic clothing strewn about the floor, the doors of his desk open, the window open, and the blind missing. He examined the cash drawer, and found the money which he had placed there gone, and, on visiting the dining-room, noticed that Mrs Weakner's silver sugar tongs had been taken away, and also 10s, which belonged to one of the inmates. Afterwards the person, or persons, had ransacked the premises, taken all practically that was of any value to them, satisfied their hunger with some cold meat and potatoes, which had been left on the table, and then made good their escape - not, however, before quenching their thirst. The sum of money missing amounts to between £30 and £40.

From this newspaper 50 years ago. - They all prefer Masham: There were no takers when uncovered Coronation seats in Piccadilly at £4 a time were offered in a letter to Masham Rural Council on Wednesday. "Any of you want to go to London?" asked the clerk (Mr J W Heddon), explaining that the seats were being made available through the Rural Councils Association with no more than two for one representative. Asked for his view by the chairman (Coun C Nesom), Coun Matthew Cundall, the oldest member, replied: "I would not go from here to Masham Station to see Piccadilly." The Council will not apply for seats.

From this newspaper 25 years ago. - Red flashing light seen: Mr Bill Phillips, a nightwatchman, and a few of his workmates at Magnet Joinery in McMullen Road, Darlington saw a large purple object with a red flashing light in the sky above their heads at 1am on Thursday morning. Mr Phillips went to his car for his binoculars and the others, a fitter and another security man, also saw the object in turn. Neither the police nor the RAF could help solve the mystery.