Here's what was making headlines in the Argus 100 years ago today, March 26, 1920:

RACECOURSE FIRE

OUTBREAK AT MONMOUTH

STABLES AND OTHER BUIDINGS DESTROYED.

There was a serious fire at Monmouth Racecourse yesterday morning.

It originated in the stables, soon one mass of flames, which spread to the adjoining building, used during the races as a temporary post office.

This also was completely gutted.

MORE NEWS:

Supt. Bullock, Sergt Jones and PC Creed were quickly on the scene, and with willing helpers, including members of the Royal Engineers, they were able to do what was possible to prevent the flames spreading before the arrival of the Monmouth Fire Brigade.

There was no chance of saving the stables, which were completely burned down, but the flames were prevented from spreading to the dressing room, weighing room, and offices.

When the fire was at its height, a large crowd witnessed it from Priory Road, which overlooks the Post Office.

FATAL BURNS.

INQUEST ON TREDUNNOCK GIRL.

PARROT RAISES AN ALARM.

Mr Lyndon Moore held an inquest at the Royal Gwent Hospital following the death of Mary Brown, domestic servant, 28, from burns,

It was stated by the mother, who lived at Tredunnock, that the deceased was in the employ of Mr J Tamplin, commercial traveller, 134 Commercial Road, Newport.

Josiah Tamplin, the employer, stated that he was in the dining room when he heard the parrot screeching in another room, and he knew something was wrong.

Going down to the kitchen, he saw the deceased in flames up to her waist.

The kitchen was full of smoke.

He wrapped coats around her, and shouted for help.

Dr Hamilton was sent for, and ordered the removal of the girl to the hospital.

Nurse David deposed that the deceased was admitted on the 23rd, and died on the 24th.

She had sustained severe burns, and the cause of death was shock resulting from burns.

The coroner returned a verdict that the death was due to shock caused by burns accidentally received, and that no-one was to blame.

TROOPS NOT TO BE USED.

Inquiries in well-informed circles failed to elicit any confirmation of the statement concerning the use of the military in connection to the miner’s strikes. The Press Association has the authority of the War Office to deny this connection.