THESE are the stories that were hitting the headlines in the South Wales Guardian on July 1, 1965.

PLANS to open a new coal shaft in Betws appeared to have been shelved by the NCB.

Instead, “sunshine miners” were expected to begin prospecting the 356-acre site to ascertain its potential for an opencast facility.

A PENYBANC schoolboy who dreamed of running away for a life of adventure on the high seas caused panic after disappearing while on his way to school.

A week had passed and his devastated parents had still received no word, but believed the 14-year-old had left home in the hope of joining the Merchant Navy.

A VAN driver from Tycroes who appeared before magistrates charged with dangerous driving changed his plea to guilty after being stung by the evidence of a 78-year-old witness.

The 20-year-old had been “genuinely surprised” a complaint had been made against him, but after hearing how his driving had upset the pensioner he offered her a heartfelt apology and admitted the offence.

A TUMBLE angler was waiting to discover whether he had earned a place in the record books after hooking a monster catch while fishing at Burry Port.

Experts were said to be unsure whether he had landed a British record skate or if his 26-and-a-half pound flatfish was actually just shy of the thornback record.

THERE was growing concern amongst police and magistrates over the flagrant misuse of vehicle foglights by drivers.

In the latest prosecution at Llandeilo, the court was told how some motorists were unaware the lights were only for use in snow or fog and were illegal to use simply because it was dark – “the rest,” the court heard, “just don’t care”.