100 years ago

The opening of the new lock at Alexandra Dock has opened up new opportunities, and two large liners, the Kenilworth Castle and the Union Castle, were currently in dock for re-fitting and general improvement.

Pontypool Road station was the scene of an accident when an express train crashed into a coach with considerable force. There were no fatalities, eye witnesses said that the coach was on the main line by mistake.

50 years ago

The minister of health, Kenneth Robinson announced in the House of Commons that in the interest of public health the time had come to end advertising cigarettes on television. Cheering greeted the announcement.

An experimental TV link between hospitals in Cwmbran and Newport was behind held up due to lack of funds. The link between Llanfrechfa Grange and the Royal Gwent Hospital would enable local cases to be brought to the attention of specialists quickly.

25 years ago

Floodwater up to five feet deep swept through parts of Abergavenny, Cwmbran and Newport and there were fears for Monmouth as the Rivers Wye and Monnow were both at dangerous levels.

Following Nelson Mandela’s release from jail, the emotional worldwide celebrations reached Pontllanfraith when Islwyn Council granted him the freedom of the borough and flew the ANC flag at the civic centre.