From this newspaper 100 years ago.

Sacrilege in Swaledale. Twice within the last six month, the alms box within Grinton church has been broken open and the contents stolen. The police hold a clue. For years past, the old church has been kept open until sunset. Now it has been decided to keep the church locked, for not only has the money been stolen but the kneelers and books have been thrown about and damaged.

From this newspaper 50 years ago. Situated on the fells 1,100ft above sea level, Garsdale junction, the lonely station at the westernmost end of Wensleydale, is probably the only station with a lending library and social hall.

The ballroom, as it is affectionately known, is a converted brick-based water tower and it draws 40 railway men and farming folk for weekly whist drives and dances.

Stationmaster Douglas Cobb provides music on the accordion. Every day, 90 trains pass through Garsdale but only 13 stop there enough to employ two porters, eight signalmen and a woman crossing-keeper.

The Vicar of Sedbergh held services in the waiting room. However, these have been cancelled for unknown reasons.

From this newspaper 25 years ago. - The growth of Northallerton over the past 20 years has been so great that it has now reached a critical stage in its development. Careful planning is needed for its future.

The population of the town area, including Brompton and Romanby, grew most quickly between 1951 and 1971. The rate of growth was three times that of the district and five times that of the county. In 20 years, its population has increased by 63pc compared with an increase of 15pc across North Yorkshire.

This rapid growth has produced problems that will have to be resolved in the near future.

The town's sewers and water supply need expanding, and there are pressures on land for housing and industry. Much of the land to the south and east of Northallerton is classified as high quality, so there could be a dilemma over its future use.

At present, employment is heavily biased towards retailing, administration and professional services. Seven out of ten jobs are in these sectors.

From the total 7,340 jobs in the area, 210 are in farming or forestry, 1,300 are in manufacturing and 5,300 are in services.

However, employment has diversified in recent years and availability of jobs for young people is good. Last summer, only 17 out of 247 school leavers had not found jobs.

Hambleton council and North Yorkshire Council are preparing a new district plan which will consider these and many other vital factors