Ten years ago The row over plans for Twickenham riverside flared up again this week. The controversy does not bode well for the Liberal Democrats who are set to launch a two week public consultation on the latest proposals - 37 flats with basement parking, six restaurants and a 450 seat auditorium.

A last night of Christmas party made a splash with guests at Hampton Pool. Over 30 people attended the final event of twelve days of fundraising for the pool on Hampton High Street.

25 years ago There is little doubt that the GLC does need a shake up in the size and extent of its activities - but 18 years on, careful pruning rather than tearing up of its roots is really what is required. Leader.

The Port of London Toll House complex at Kew has been sold for around £250,000. This riverside landmark will be used as a private residence by local architect, John Bull, who also plans to convert the PLA offices into a drawing office.

50 years ago Severe criticism of the architecture of Victorian houses in the Kew Gardens Road area was made by the Hampton Court architect Eric Lyons at a public inquiry in Richmond Town Hall. Mr Lyons was supporting a scheme by the Span Development Group for three modern terraced houses and two garages on the old orchard at No 23 Kew Gardens Road.

100 years ago Messrs Chancellors and Sons write: The year 1908 has undoubtedly been one of great depression in all businesses, particularly marked in regard to property transactions, but it is difficult to understand the reason of such a fluctuation that has occurred in the prices of properties. Some persons attribute it to the increased motor traffic, observing that the fact of Richmond being so near London has caused it to be largely influenced by this mode of conveyance which, in consequence of the great speed attained, enables people to go further afield and so reach the country almost as quickly as the train service.

There is, however, another view to be taken of the depressed state of things. This is that so many investors have sought investments abroad and in America, thus preventing their money from circulating in this country and this is no doubt due to the want of confidence and thus a vicious circle is completed.

So far as house and property buying is concerned the public has been very reticent in making up its mind where to settle and although this state of depression has affected all suburban districts, Richmond still holds its own for there is no suburb to equal it in its natural beauties, lovely scenery, healthiness and amenities carefully preserved by a well governed council.