From the Advertiser archives - November 17 edition

In the news 100, 50 and 25 years ago

November 18, 1916

The ancient and picturesque ceremony of collecting wroth silver payable to his Grace the Duke of Buccleuch and Queensbury was observed at Knightliw Hill on Martinmas Eve (Saturday), before sunrising, when all from whom payments were due were required to attend. There was not so large a gathering as in previous years, but the dues from the 27 contributing parishes were all forthcoming and were paid to Mr J Heap, agent to the Duke of Buccleuch.

November 18, 1966

Twenty-eight waggons of south-bound express freight train were derailed at Long Buckby yesterday, blocking a main line between Rugby and Northampton. Sections of track were torn up for more than a mile and the platform on the south side of the station was badly damaged. The waggons piled up near the goods yard bringing down overhead power cables and their metal supports. The wrecked coaches, which were containing breakfast cereals and agricultural machinery, were being guarded by police.

November 14, 1991

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Faint cries of Wroth Silver could be heard on Knightlow Hill as villagers carried on one of Britain’s oldest traditions. For the 822nd time, they gathered before sunrise on Martinmas Eve to pay their dues to the Duke of Buccleuch - and ensure the protection of the parishes for another year. Pennies from 25 parishes were thrown into the ancient stone early on Monday morning and - as usual - there were no defaulters.

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