The Isle of Wight County Press has been bringing Islanders the news since 1884. We've delved into our archives.

125 years ago, in  July 1899:

A young, live Hawksbill turtle was found on the shore near Porchfield. The creature was thought to have escaped from a passing ship, as it is usually an inhabitant of the tropical seas. Taxidermist Percy Waldham was endeavouring to keep the turtle alive, and it was doing well, comfortably disposing of 18 small fish in one  meal.

The public works committee recommended Ryde Town Council supported the proposed electric light railway scheme to Seaview. The proposition was carried with just one vote against it as the committee thought it would be  of advantage to the town.

100 years ago, in July 1924:

The anniversary sports and fete at the county mental hospital at Whitecroft was a great success with fine weather and numerous fancy dresses adding gaiety to the scene. Among the large number of visitors were former patients, who enjoyed the opportunity to renew acquaintances with the staff and their former fellow patients.

Island unemployment increased by 18, with 529 men registered unemployed at the IW labour exchanges.

75 years ago, in July 1949:

Plans were adopted for the IW County Council to acquire the site with frontages to St  James' Street and South Street in Newport to establish an omnibus station. The Newport Town Council clerk was to take all steps needed to implement the scheme at the earliest opportunity.

A pioneer of radio and television on the  Island, Mr W.G. Sherratt of Newport, gave an outspoken address calling for the Island to come off the fringe for reception. He said the BBC reception was worse than in 1928 and called for the implementation of FM broadcasting, which would virtually eliminate interference and would give a consistently strong signal.

The ministry of health intimated that the tender for the erection of houses on the first section of Pan Estate was too high and asked the council to consider modifications to the plans.

The Island's oldest inhabitant, Louisa Mary Way, of Ryde, died aged 103. She had celebrated her birthday on April 25 when she was described by the County Press as "still remarkably well-preserved and alert".

50 years ago, in July 1974:

Reducing the Island's maximum speed limit to 50mph was recommended at a county council meeting in County Hall.

Unions and hospital management remained deadlocked as the strike by IW hospital maintenance men dragged towards its second week.

Dogs were a health hazard on the Island, but it  was their owners who should be educated, said the district medical officer of health, at a meeting of Medina Borough Council's housing and health committee.

Yarmouth Harbour Commissioners imposed a limit of 150 people gathering on the town pier at  one time.