From the Bolton Evening News files 25 YEARS AGO

From the Evening News, July 25, 1975

SEVERAL local railway stations should be reopened as unmanned halts to boost commuter services, the South Turton Association of Ratepayers says in a report to Bolton Borough Council. The association said they should include Oaks Station, Bradshaw, and Lostock Junction.

THE Bank of England's minimum lending rate (new style bank rate) was today raised one per cent to 11 per cent.

ST George's Church, the second oldest church building in Bolton and the old parish church of Little Bolton, built in 1796, will hold its last service this weekend.

50 YEARS AGO

From the Evening News, July 26, 1950

BOLTON Cleansing and Sewage Committee yesterday decided not to accede to a request from the Bolton and District Property Owners' and Ratepayers charge on the rates. The committee made its decision after being told that a dustbin scheme would at any time be expensive, but at present it would be even more expensive because there are still 4,000 ashpits in Bolton.

NINE-years-old John had been looking forward to the arrival of a baby brother or sister. When the happy day arrived, however, and he was informed that he had a baby brother, he told his father: 'On second thoughts, dad, I think I would rather have a television set.'

125 YEARS AGO

From the Evening News, July 26, 1875

SIR,- I have (perhaps along with others) what I think is a ground of complaint against our Gas Committee. Some time ago I received a circular informing me that I was required 'within seven days to find security for my supply or otherwise it would be cut off.' I think those are the words, though I am speaking from memory. Now, sir, I have consumed gas in the same premises for upwards of five years, and I may say I have, invariably, received the benefit of the discount allowed for prompt payment - my average quarterly bill for the last twelve months was about £5. On inquiring at the gas offices I am told that the security means a cash deposit of £10, which I suppose is intended to remain in the hands of the Corporation until I, or may be my executors, cease business. Placing the interest on this sum at the very lowest rate for the man in business, I am paying, or will be, 10s a year in addition to my gas bill. My object in writing is to ask the committee, through you, why I am to be subjected to this tax? My impression was the committee had very summary powers for the recovery of gas rates in arrear, which I thought were amply sufficient. If the principle, however, is right, why not raise a little capital from water consumers? Trusting you will insert this, and give an opportunity for the subject being ventilated, I am, &c., A Gas Consumer.