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

25 years ago...

A ‘CONTROVERSIAL’ statue was being unveiled on Dunbar High Street, reported the East Lothian Courier on September 26, 1997.

Magnus Magnusson is to unveil a controversial statue of John Muir outside Dunbar Town House next Friday.

The former ‘Mastermind’ presenter will take part in a ceremony for a piece of artwork its planner hopes will be the crowning glory of the High Street improvements.

But the £26,000 project has been dogged by criticism from residents who feel it will detract from the historic Town House.

The 12 feet high bronze statue was designed by Ukrainian sculptor Valentin Znoba and captures John Muir in his Dunbar childhood with birds flying from his hand.

Its supporters believe it will enhance the town centre, provide a focal point for tourists and demonstrate the town’s commitment to preserving its link with one of its most famous residents.

Local Councillor Norman Hampshire said: “I am delighted to see the finished result.”

WHILE there was a dispute as rare artefacts were taken from Whittingehame House.

A rare collection of artefacts relating to Edwardian Prime Minister A J Balfour has been removed from his former East Lothian home, after a heated dispute over ownership rights.

The occupant of the ground floor flat at Whittingehame this week seized both cases and contents, claiming the front hall of the house and everything in it was his.

...and 50 years ago

REPORTS of firemen in action in Ormiston made the headlines in the East Lothian Courier on September 29, 1972.

A spectacular fire occurred in Hillview Road.

A store shed belonging to G. A. Anderson, joiners (Ormiston) LTD. was burned down.

Two fire engines, one from Tranent and one from Musselburgh, were in attendance but although quickly on the scene were unable to save the structure from being gutted.

Brigades were hampered by lack of water which had to be augmented by a mobile pump at the side of the River Tyne, and pumped up to the site of the fire as hydrants were unable to cope.

...and 100 years ago

A WIRELESS radio installation was to be installed in Haddington for the first time, reported The Haddingtonshire Courier on September 29, 1922.

The first wireless installation in Haddington is being erected by Mr T. B. Park, at Springfield, his residence at the West End.

The apparatus consists of a five valve set, with outside aerial, and when completed, it will be possible to hear all the long distance broadcasting stations in Europe.