100 years ago

May 11, 1918

The first IW Labour Party was formed in an effort to 'attain the emancipation of the working classes from a state of serfdom'.

Mr. W. Berryman said the group had the will and the power to make the party one to be feared and to be thankful for.

He said there was no reason why the IW should not have a successful Labour candidate.

75 years ago

May 8, 1943

Well known actress, Miss Phylis Neilson-Terry, spoke at the inauguration of the ministry of food cookery demonstrations.

The Mayoress took the chair at the event held in the British Restaurant, Newport.

The demonstration was for the benefit of housewives who were trying to stretch small amounts of food.

50 years ago

May 4, 1968

A bizarre assortment of 61 guns and 1000 rounds of ammunition comprised a motley miniature arsenal after a three month firearms amnesty.

The hoard included 22 shotguns, 14 rifles, nine revolvers, seven pistols and three airguns.

The most interesting was a .22 rifles stamped Cherokee Falls, April, 1794.

25 years ago

May 7, 1993

Blackgang Chine owners bought Robin Hill Adventure Park as part of its 150th anniversary.

Mr Richard Bennis, managing director of Downend Enterprises which owned Robin Hill, said his firm has reached an agreement with the Dabell family, who own Blackgang.

The new owners aimed to make an immediate start on a long-term programme of refurbishment.

10 years ago

May 9, 2008

Wightlink introduced a fuel surcharge on its routes because of the rocketing cost of diesel.

Red Funnel and Hovertravel said they had no plans to follow Wightlink's lead.

Wightlink pointed to a 76 percent rise in oil prices.