IT WAS a boom time for babies on New Year’s Day at the Royal Berkshire Hospital’s maternity in 1975, when 21 were delivered in 24 hours.

The first happy couple to receive their bundle of joy, at 40 minutes past midnight, were Barbara and John Popplewell of Calcot, who had a son to add to their family.

Midwife, Miss F. Pearman told the Chronicle: “I think you could say we did a good day’s work, although 21 births is not exceptional for one day, it is above average.”

It was revealed 45 years ago that the cost of Reading’s new Civic Centre had risen by £200,000 in seven months, with the final total expected to be nearly £3 million, without any further increases.

In true “Yes Minister” style, the Chief Executive, Harry Tee told a policy committee meeting (without a hint of irony) that the reason for the hike was:” A rise in costs.”

The original quote for the new premises in 1972 had been £2.2 million, a previous increase in the costs had angered many committee members, who demanded (and got), an immediate meeting with the contractors.

Reading’s two rivers, The Kennet and Thames, were severely polluted by an oil slick in 1975, which had started near County Lock in the town centre.

Hundreds of gallons of a ‘light diesel-type fuel’ was spotted by canal boat users, who reported it to the Water Authority, who promptly installed a boom across the water near Kennetside.

Ian Adams from the authority told the Chronicle: “The main risk is of high quantities of oil affecting wildlife and sticking to boats.”

Officer Commanding the Reading Sea Cadets for the previous eight years, Lt.Cmdr T Oliver was cheered by his former cadets after hosting his retirement celebration in Brock Barracks.

After addressing the assembled company, he was presented with gifts, which included a decanter and silver tankard.

Reading Football Club welcomed a new ‘big centre half in 1975 after several arduous weeks of searching for a tall player to fit into the heart of their defence.

Wrexham’s Bobby Scott signed his new contract for month’s trial (on loan) with manager Charlie Hurley in the Elm Park boardroom.

Scott was due to make his debut for Reading against Lincoln City, where it was hoped his 6-foot stature would help bolster the club’s back four.

The winner of the “Miss Greyfriars” competition was announced 45 years ago as Susan Shooter from Earley, who received a set of suitcases and course on modelling with the Grosvenor Fashion Agency.

Second prize went to Christine Day, who received a tea service and third place was handed three steel serving trays.