THE weather is probably our most popular topic of conversation and 25 years ago Furness played the usual summer guessing game of which day was best to head to the beach or the hills.

Our archive pictures of holidayactivities through the years show that South Cumbrians have never been short of ways to enjoy their leisure time.

The Mail, on July 21 in 1994, noted: “Fell walking is extremely popular when the sun shines.

“People who don’t normally go walking tend to be tempted on to footpaths in good weather.

“They are not always equipped for the job - Coniston Mountain rescue leader Anthony Robinson has even seen people on top of Coniston Old Man in high heels.

“Mr Robinson said it was important for people to plan ahead and carry some sensible gear with them.” He said: “In hot weather the most important thing is to take something to keep the sunlight off.

“Walkers should wear hats, carry a reasonable amount of fluid and, obviously, anyone not 100 per cent fit should think carefully about how far they are going to go.”

The Mail, on June 30 in 1994, noted: “Furness sun worshippers have been making the most of the best weather so far in a dull, cool summer.

“Although it may not have been as sweltering as it was for tennis fans at Wimbledon - where temperatures reached 100F - the blue skies and warm sunshine saw hundreds flock to Furness beaches.

“Weather watcher Wilf Buttery of Millom said although this summer had not been exceptionally poor compared with previous years, it had not been that special either.”

Mr Buttery said: “Generally it’s been very windy which has been disappointing.

“The hottest day this month has been June 23 or 24 when temperatures reached 28C."

The article noted: “A spokesman at the Institute of Terrestrial Ecology research station at Merlewood said staff had recorded rain on most June days, although rainfall was below average in May. This year on average it rained three days a week in May."