Sayings and doings of 25 years ago...

THE school bell was ringing for the last time for Dunbar Grammar School’s headteacher, reported the East Lothian Courier on March 21, 1997.

Will Collin today walks through the gates of Dunbar Grammar School for the last time as headteacher.

After almost 14 years in the senior post, and five years before that as assistant head, he is taking early retirement at the age of 53.

Explaining his decision, Mr Collin said: “I feel I am ready for retirement and putting my feet up.”

Born and raised in Eyemouth, he began teaching maths and physics at the high school there in 1967.

Five years later he moved to Arbroath before coming to Dunbar as assistant headteacher in 1977.

Following an 18-month sojourn as the deputy head of Selkirk High School in the early 80s, he returned to Dunbar in 1983.

Looking back over a career spanning three decades at the school, Mr Collin, who lives with his wife Val in Rosebery Place, said: “The best part of the job is working with young people.”

...and 50 years ago

Vandals created ‘a reign of terror’, told the East Lothian Courier on March 17, 1972.

A wave of vandalism in East Lothian recently was likened to a “reign of terror” by a county official this week.

He said damage amounting to almost £1,000 had been done to a pavilion in Prestonpans.

“We are fighting a losing battle,” said Mr George B. Ritchie of the architect’s department.

“Contractors attempting to re-instate and modernise Preston Lodge School pavilion in Preston Road can’t keep pace with the amount of vandalism there.”

...and 100 years ago

A VILLAGE pageant in Cockenzie was the talk of the town, said The Haddingtonshire Courier on March 17, 1922.

An artistic and interesting entertainment was given under the auspices of the Girls’ Friendly Society in the U.F. Church Hall.

“A Dream of Good Women,” representing different periods in a marvellously effective manner, passed before the spectators.

The dressing and training of the various characters called forth the warm appreciation and approval of the audience, and reflected great credit not only on the artistes, but also on the superintendent of the G.F.S., Mrs Howie, who had the greater burden of the work thrown on her shoulders.