Back in the day: We delve into our archives to see what was going on 10 years ago, 25 years ago and 50 years ago this week
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10 years ago – April 2, 2015
Abbey ending
The Earl of Carnarvon has bid a fond farewell to the award-winning ITV series, Downton Abbey, after it was announced that the coming series will be the last.
The period drama, mostly filmed at the castle, has attracted record audiences around the globe, but ITV recently announced the sixth series, to be broadcast in the autumn, would be the last.
The broadcaster said: “After five series of drama for the Crawleys, season six will see us bidding a fond farewell to the family and those who serve them in the final ever episodes of Downton Abbey.”
The Earl of Carnarvon told the Newbury Weekly News this week that filming of the series would finish around mid-July.
He said: “It’s been an honour to have been involved in the Downton journey over the last six years and we have very much enjoyed being the home of Downton Abbey.
“We are delighted that so many people around the world have enjoyed the series and the role that Highclere Castle has played as the backdrop to the show.”
The series saw visitor numbers treble at the castle in recent years.
25 years ago – March 30, 2000
Beech blessing
Members of the Lambourn Women’s Institute planted a tree for the Millennium in the grounds of St Michael and All Angels’ Church on Saturday.
About 15 people from the WI and Lambourn Parish Council gathered to watch as the Rev Bill Stewart gave a blessing and a prayer before the oldest member of the WI, Mrs Susan Haskell, planted the copper beech tree.
The president of the Lambourn branch, Mrs Irene Brownlee, explained that the tree was planted as a result of various suggestions put forward by members to mark the Millennium.
Some of their other ideas, including a members’ photograph book and a cross-stitched flower book, are being carried out, and it is hoped that they will be displayed in the village in the future.
50 years ago – April 3, 1975
Elms at risk
Dutch elm disease has been found among trees in Abingdon Road, East Ilsley, and an expert would visit the village this month to prepare a report on his examination of other trees.
This was stated at East Ilsley Parish Council meeting last week.
The county’s reply to the flooding in Compton Road said it was by faulty land drainage. Letters were sent to the district council for new action.
A letter from the county surveyor said soil could be filtered from the pond but it would mean that the culvert would be larger.
Allotments came under discussion and it was agreed to give provisional permits while waiting legal advice.
