LOOKING back on some of the stories the Gazette has reported through the years...

June 1977

COSTINGS for the proposed Severn Barrage scheme would be considerably higher than any estimate put forward, and would take at least 20 years to complete, it was heard.

The conclusions of a feasibility study carried out by a Dutch engineering firm were from one of three reports on the scheme published by the Department of Energy.

Engineers believed that the cost of a double basin barrage scheme would be £3,100 million, not including the cost of the turbines needed to generate the power, nor the adaption of harbours, channels etc.

The Department of Energy agreed that the time factor involved meant that the barrage could not contribute significantly to the energy supply during the remainder of the 20th century.

The other reports were into tidal levels and currents near the barrage and a look at the geology of the area.

The advisory council on research and development for fuel and power announced it would consider the findings of the three reports before making recommendations to the Energy Secretary Tony Benn.

June 1987

THE second Chipping Sodbury Festival, which had been providing fun and entertainment for townsfolk all week, was voted a resounding success.

“We’re delighted with the response we’ve had so far and the fact that everybody has thoroughly enjoyed all the events,” festival treasurer Charles Campbell told the Gazette.

Events got underway on the Sunday with 150 people turning out for a guided walk and 300 cars in a car boot sale, with other crowd pleasers including a barn dance and carnival procession through the town.

The Ridings also hosted a family sports day and the crowning of the festival princess.