150 years ago - July 16 1871

* Tolland church was reopened after being almost entirely rebuilt. The Bishop of Bath and Wells officiated and the guests included Vice Admiral Sir Frederick Nicholson and Lady Nicholson.

* A valuable collection of minerals from the Brendon Hills was presented to the Taunton Museum by Mr Spencer Percival.

* The licence of the Horse and Crook Inn, Dunster, was transferred from Mr William Sloman to his son, Henry.

* For their annual treat, children of the CofE and day schools, Watchet, sang hymns and marched to Parsonage Farm where they were given tea and cake. The Countess of Egremont paid them a visit.

100 years ago - July 16 1921

* People strolling along Minehead seafront were puzzled by a luminous fringe to the waves. One theory was that it was due to a great amount of mackerel in the Channel.

* At last, a regular motor bus service was to be provided between Minehead and Bridgwater – three services a day each way. This would be operated by Hardy Central Garage Co Ltd, Minehead.

* Miss E Edbrooke left Withycombe School to take up a teaching post at Carhampton. Mrs E F Case presented her with a silver teapot and a purse of money on behalf of the parish.

* Elworthy church bells were rehung after renovation at a cost of £175. The work was done under the direction of Mr John Sully, of Zinch, Stogumber.

50 years ago - July 17 1971

* Miss Nell Dunn, author of Up The Junction and Poor Cow, was due to open Williton Youth Club’s Summer Revels. She was working on her latest novel, The Incurable, at her farmhouse home in Withiel Florey.

* Stogumber Cricket Club lost two valuable members – treasurer Rodney Somerfield, to concentrate on football training, and entertainment secretary Philip Watts, who resigned for personal reasons.

* Young bachelor the Rev Alan Cox accepted the living of Chipstaple with Raddington and Huish Champflower.