Fire caused by torrential rain and more in days gone by

125 years ago, in October 1899:

As was predicted would be the case, when the advantages of telephonic communication came to be realised, it was rapidly growing in local favour, with 233 subscribers on the Island. 

A Ryde somnambulist died when he fell downstairs at his home in St Thomas's Square. Ryde. Thomas James Astington. 77, was conscious when his wife first found him and said he had been sleepwalking. Although he did not appear seriously injured, he died later in hospital as a result of the fall.

A popular superintendent of Newport's St John Ambulance resigned due to the demands of other business activities.

Mr H L Lawes was one of the original members of the Newport division and was instrumental in forming other divisions in towns throughout the Island. His work in saving lives had more than once been brought to the attention of the Queen.

100 years ago, in October 1924:

Thomas Barnes, of Sutton Dairy, near Shorwell, owed his life to his terrier dog. When Mr Barnes became dizzy and fell into a pond on the farm, the dog ran to and from the gate barking furiously, until he attracted the attention of a passer-by. George Knight waded into the pond and dragged Mr Barnes out. He then called for help and Mr F Woodford came to their assistance, applying artificial respiration to Mr Barnes.

Rowland Russell was adopted as Mayor of Ryde for 1924-5. Having had considerable experience in public work, it was expected that he would continue to demonstrate his business acumen, aptitude and energy in the new role. for the benefit of the town.

Princess Beatrice attended her final public engagement during her summer stay at Carisbrooke Castle when she presided over the annual meeting of governors at the Frank James Memorial Cottage Hospital at the Town Hall, East Cowes. She had been associated with the hospital since it was opened and in attending the evening meeting, demonstrated her continued interest in its 21st year.

75 years ago, in October 1949:

A fire in Scarrots Lane, Newport was thought to be caused by torrential rain, which reacted with a large quantity of lime in a garage. Three appliances attended the fire and saved an adjourning house from the flames, which destroyed Mr A Bennett's garage and van.

A Scout who saved a small boy from drowning in the sea, was awarded the Scout's Silver Cross for gallantry. Roger Cross rescued the child from the water off Ryde, where he was being out to sea.

The governor of Camp Hill Borstal Institution, Mr G Macfarlane, speaking at a Rotary Club luncheon, stated that even the most respectable people had a potential to go bad. He said that they had lived in a generation that had done a desperate amount of killing and there was no high correlation between what was morally right and what was legally right.

The Flying Fifteen Yacht, Coweslip, was presented to the Duke of Edinburgh at a ceremony in London. Chairman of Cowes Town Council, Mr J F Sinclair, handed the duke the certificate of registration.

50 years ago, in October 1974:

Liberal MP Stephen Ross retained the Island seat he gained from the Conservatives eight months previously, becoming the first Liberal this century to have held the Island in two successive general elections.

Ryde firemen had to apply heart massage to a spaniel after the dog had been overcome by fumes in a grocery store blaze in Monkton Street. Although the dog was saved and the fire at the Strand Stores was quickly put out, the flat above the shop and some of the stock was damaged.

Members of the IW Tourist Board were urged to look at their profit margins and not be afraid to put up their prices realistically to counteract inflation, which is biting deep into their profits. Members were urged to charge the right prices to enable them to refurbish 'tired-looking' guesthouses and hotels.