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

August 1997

THE SHARPNESS Coastguard and the Severn Area Rescue Association were tested to the limit when they recorded their busiest spell ever following a period of high winds.

The rush began when the coastguard and SARA boats were called to rescue a water-skier in difficulty on the River Severn.

As soon as the incident was over, the teams were involved in the successful rescue of a cow from the river.

The animal had been in the water from some time and was distressed.

Coastguard Paul Walkden entered the water, attached a safety line and hauled the cow out.

But events became even more dramatic, with incident after incident through the proceeding week.

A team of canoeists was rescued as they made their way towards Gloucester, with teams called out later that day when a yacht was reported missing with two people on board.

The boat was eventually located by the coastguard and escorted by a SARA boat to Oldbury Pill where safe anchorage had been prepared.

August 2007

A LANDSCAPE gardening firm from Olveston celebrated being named runner-up in an national award, recognising good business ethics.

Jane’s Pond Ltd reached the national finals of the Small Business Champions awards and was voted area runner-up in the Ethical Awards category.

The award nomination recognised the company’s commitment to good working practices, care of staff, environmental education and work with the community.

It was the first time that the firm had entered the scheme and was one of 18 southern area finalists, ranging from London to the Scilly Isles.