WE TAKE a look at the stories making headlines in East Lothian 25, 50 and 100 years ago.

25 years ago

A BAN on bacon butties made headlines in the East Lothian Courier on July 30, 1999.

An early morning bacon buttie ban has infuriated customers of a Haddington store.

For the tasty rolls they bought on their way to work for years now can’t be served until 10am – because of an old planning restriction.

It came to light when neighbours of Rosehall Stores, Pencaitland Road, Haddington, raised the matter with planners at a site meeting called after new owner Karen Greig applied for planning permission for an extension.

Now Karen, who bought the shop two years ago, has been told she cannot serve cooked food of any kind except between the hours of 10am and 2.30pm until councillors decide if the ban should be lifted.

“I was quite shocked because we had been serving hot food from 6.30am since I bought the shop,” she said.

“I had no idea there was any restriction.”

50 years ago

WARNINGS about a destructive garden pest were reported in the East Lothian Courier on August 2, 1974.

As usual during the summer months, it is important to be on the watch for Colorado Beetle, especially in potato crops.

Colorado Beetle occurs over much of Europe and there is always a risk that it may be introduced into this county.

Because it can move freely, Colorado Beetle may be present on imported produce other than potatoes, and leafy vegetables are a particularly likely source, but it is on potato crops that the pest feeds and multiplies.

Any yellowish beetle about a half inch long with black stripes running from head to tail, or any glistening red or reddish yellow grub found on potato leaves, should be suspect.

100 years ago

A SUDDEN death occurred at the tennis courts in North Berwick, The Haddingtonshire Courier reported on August 1, 1924.

While watching the play at the tennis courts, on Tuesday evening, an elderly gentleman, named Mr Todd, a visitor from Coatbridge, dropped down, and expired almost immediately.

MEANWHILE, there was drama on the water.

Three boys had an exciting boating experience in Cockenzie.

On leaving the safety of the harbour, the small craft was caught by a strong north-west wind and blown to a fringe of rocks in deep water.

The youths were able to clamber upon the rocks and ultimately got safely ashore, although completely drenched. The derelict boat was salved by three fishermen.

The exciting incident was witnessed by a large crowd.