The Isle of Wight County Press has been bringing Islanders the news since 1884. We've delved into our archives.

125 years ago, in August 1899:

A mirage of the Island could be seen from Hayling Island. The heat combined with an exceptionally clear atmosphere meant a complete mirage of certain portions of the IW could be seen. The wooded promontory between the mouth of Brading Harbour and Whitecliff Bay was reflected and, with a glass, it was possible to see trees and other objects reproduced upside down.

Queen Victoria took a gracious interest in Cowes Week, with the flair of the proceedings further enhanced by the presence of the Prince and Princess of Wales and other royals.

Princess Henry of Battenberg took over the Queen Victoria Ward at the County Hospital at a special meeting. The children's wing was officially handed to the princess on behalf of the governors.

100 years ago, in August 1924:

A Hoptonwood stone tablet bearing the names of 28 Yarmouth men who gave their lives in the war was erected on the front wall of the town hall. A large gathering of townsfolk watched the tablet be placed somewhat belatedly, because of difficulties in deciding what form the memorial should take - being unveiled by Maj Gen Seely.

Islanders gathered at Ryde Esplanade to view the illumination of the grand fleet, which the King was visiting. 200 warships filled the Solent, anchored in ten long lines stretching from the East Bramble light-ship to Horse Fort.

75 years ago, in August 1949:

Yarmouth brothers Stanley and Colin Smith set sail from Canada for England in their 20-foot half-decked sailing boat Nova Espero on July 6. No information had been received until a steamer reported spotting them halfway between Newfoundland and Cornwall. Both former members of the Yarmouth lifeboat crew, the brothers constructed their vessel in Nova Scotia to cruise through the Canadian lakes, and news of their Atlantic bid came as a complete surprise to their parents.

The guest of honour at Yarmouth Carnival was Miss New Zealand, Mary Woodward, who was touring the country. She crowned the town queens.

The long dry spell was broken by rain and wind over the bank holiday weekend, with high winds bringing temperatures down considerably.

50 years ago, in August 1974:

A shortage of sugar on the Island led to panic buying by housewives and grocers, rationing supplies.

Wroxall children planned a protest march about the lack of playing area facilities in the village.

Leader of the opposition Edward Heath said the Island must be recaptured for the Conservatives when he spoke at a party rally at Barton Manor.

An unusual missing person hunt on the Island ended with the return of a three-foot tall duck puppet, Herbert, to Ryde conjurer Christopher Cox.

A car ended up in Ryde Canoe Lake children's paddling pool after it was involved in a collision on the lake perimeter road.