25 YEARS AGO

SIR,- As one of the outcasts and humbugs of society - namely a widow - I would like to aim one or two grievances at these ill-treated, overworked and over-indulged brothers of British workmen who set the whole country out of joint by striking.

I work 46-plus hours per week, reach home 7.45pm Saturday, the proud possessor of £9 to keep body and soul and a house together for a week. I haven't had a holiday for six years, daren't be ill, and have to accept whatever wears out or conks out in the home. WIDOW

SIR,- I cannot help but think the way things are going that we shall soon find that a loaf costs us 9s 6d. 50 YEARS AGO

HISTORY was made today at the 17th plenary meeting of the United Nations General Assembly.

The delegates carried the resolution of the Political and Security Committee for the setting up of a commission of atomic energy to make recommendations for the control and peaceful development of the tremendous power for good or evil. "We have chosen the way to peace," was the theme. 125 YEARS AGO

A FIRE, which seems likely to be one of the most extensive that has taken place in the coal district of South Lancashire, has commenced at the collieries of the Tawd Vale Coal Company, situate about nine miles from Wigan. The seam in which the fire has broken out is known as the twelve-feet or seven-feet, and is worked at these pits by means of two shafts.

Indications of smouldering were observed some time ago, but no immediate danger seems to have been anticipated.

Last week, however, the fire broke into an open flame, with which great rapidity extended along the main airways.

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