25 YEARS AGO:

December, 31 1993

POTENTIAL NEW PRIEST: Bridport may have its first woman priest by the summer.

The Rev Jacqueline Curtis, a deacon in the Bridport Team Ministry, could be among the first women ordained at Salisbury Cathedral, on Saturday, June 11 if she gets through the process of discernment and preparation, which involves interviews and assessments of suitability.

Miss Curtis (33) said she hoped very much to become a priest, as she felt is was her vocation.

AIR OF THE DOG: Villagers at Nettlecombe were amazed to see a hot air balloon drifting across the countryside on a delivery run to the Marquis of Lorne pub.

The novel transporter dropped in with the pub's first consignment of Brody cider.

Taunton Cider representative John Wrigglesworth handed over the order after touching down in a neighbouring field.

ROYAL APPOINTMENT: A well-loved personality at Bridport Carnivals parades, the Axminster Music Man, has been awarded the MBE in the New Year's honours list.

The award recognises his achievements as the west country's top solo fundraiser.

50 YEARS AGO:

December 27. 1968

COMMENDATION: West Bay fisherman Mr Gordon Northover, who lives at 1 Clematis Cottage, Bradpole, has been awarded the Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct.

Forty-two-year-old Mr Northover will receive the honour "in recognition of his prompt action in going to the rescue of a Royal Air Force pilot who had parachuted into the sea."

WHO ATE ALL THE PIES: At a well-attended meeting of the Beaminster WI members sampled, with enthusiasm, the results of a competition for the three best mince pies.

Mrs Forsey won first prize and Miss Hook second.

LETTERS DOWN: It hasn't been such a hectic Christmas for the Lyme Regis Post Office as usual.

Mr W Gurd, acting postmaster at Lyme Regis, told our reporter that they had handled 20 per cent less post than last year.

"For once, people have posted early for Christmas" he added.