EACH week in the Free Press we look back at what made the news 150, 100, 50 and 25 years ago. Here is a sample of the items featuring in the This Was The News column this week.

150 years ago – December 25th 1869

Arrangements were now being made in Williton, Watchet and neighbourhood by erecting necessary posts etc for bringing into operation the Government plan for telegraphic communication.

100 years ago – December 27th 1919

After an interval of three years, through the headmaster Mr Arthur Wevell being on active service, Stogursey school concert was revived. It was so popular that many people could not gain attendance to the large schoolroom. Members of staff who helped Mr Wevell with the programme were Mrs Lake, Mrs E Jones, Miss M Lane and Miss E Evered.

50 years ago – December 27th 1969

One of the most serious problems facing Somerset and Bath Constabulary was an increase in the number of thefts of silverware and antiques. So serious was the problem in Somerset that the police were led to issue a special warning, coupled with advice, to householders about it.

25 years ago – December 30th 1994

Villagers in Exebridge were swamped by up to three feet of water in the latest of a spate of severe flooding. The National Rivers Authority diverted “millions of gallons” of water from places including Dulverton but, with more rain predicted, put the Exe under red alert.