From the Northern Times 25, 50 and 100 years ago

25 YEARS AGO

From the newspaper of November 14, 1997

Highland councillors are to consult parents and the public on moves to close four educational establishments in Sutherland. Facing the axe are the one-pupil Loch Choire School, Golspie High School's technical annexe, its Mackay House Hostel and Drummuie Farm which has been used for agricultural training courses.

A LARGE gathering assembled at the Jubilee Plantation foreshore on Loch Shin last week for the launch of a new boat, the Vhairi Adeline, for use by Migdale Smolts fish farmers on their latest site at the north end of Loch Shin.

A NEW owner has applied to renovate and extend the old family home of the former Lord Chancellor at Clashfern, a couple of miles east of Scourie, The stone-built cottage was allowed to fall into a state of near ruin by the former owner. The cottage is now owned by Dr Andrew Taylor, Broughty Ferry, Dundee. He has applied to renovate and extend the house, built in 1875.

50 YEARS AGO

From the newspaper of November 10, 1972

Cambusmore Estate tenants and employees held their annual party in Burghfield House Hotel, when Mr R. M. Abel Smith (the proprietor), Miss Dorothy Abel Smith, Mr Finlayson (the factor) and Mrs Finlayson were present. Miss Abel Smith showed films of various countries, and these were greatly enjoyed.

Dornoch Town Council are facing the problem of how to keep cattle off their air strip on the links - and also of how to discourage learner drivers from practising there. Car drivers are ignoring notices restricting the use of the air strip. The town council agreed to refer the matter to the works committee.

Last Saturday afternoon, Farr School pupils took part in a sponsored walk from Skerray pier to Bettyhill, a distance of 11 miles, to raise money for the provision of a trailer for the minibus and camping equipment. First to break the tape at the school was Angus Mackay (13), Torrisdale, Skerray who finished in 75 minutes.

100 YEARS AGO

From the newspaper of November 9, 1922

Mr Donald Maclennan, Dornoch Station, was made the recipient of a handsome Waltham hunting gold watch and gold albert, on the occasion of his leaving Dornoch to take over the charge of the goods depot at Invergordon. A large and representative deputation waited on Mr Maclennan at his house on Saturday.

Mr Birkin of the Dornoch Light Railway, was unanimously elected to the chair, and in an excellent speech spoke of the pleasure it gave him to see so many present. Mr Birkin paid a high tribute to the character and ability of Mr Maclennan.

Very stormy weather prevailed during the past week. The advent of winter was heralded by strong wind, snow and sleet, culminating in hard frost. It was rather a strange sight to see the standing uncut corn amid the snow. Fortunately a thaw set in and outdoor work has resumed.

Golspie Shopboys travel to Helmsdale on Saturday first and meet Helmsdale 2nd X1.

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