Dalton celebrated the 750th anniversary of its market charter in May 1989 with a variety of events which captured the imagination of the local community.
News of the celebrations was broadcast all over the world by members of Furness Amateur Radio Society.
CENTRE STAGE: Pupils of Chapel Street Infants School at Dalton dressed for their role in the town's 750th charter celebrations
As townspeople witnessed the official re-opening of Dalton Castle by Dalton mayor Cllr Brenda O’Connor and joined in a united service of thanksgiving in the Market Place, people as far away as Italy and Bulgaria learned about the festivities over the airwaves.
The radio enthusiasts set up a temporary station in the Cavendish Arms, with aerials in the backyard and on the roof.
Honorary club treasurer Basil Bull said they hoped to contact almost every country in the world with news of the Charter celebrations during the day.
DRAWING THE CROWDS: Visitors to the charter celebrations in Dalton's Market Street
Newly elected mayor Brenda O’Connor opened the proceedings, unlocking the doors to the castle with a key presented by National Trust regional chairman Spencer Crookenden.
Inside, National Trust regional agent Hugh Devlin explained the £30,000 work on the castle. The roof had to be replaced, including all the leadwork and slates, the parapets were repaired and an extra gargoyle was added to improve drainage. Inside, the building had been completely redecorated and heating installed.
Out in the town’s square, Daltonians led by the town band joined in a service of thanksgiving.
IN TUNE: Some of the musical entertainment at the charter celebrations
Another event that day was the proclamation of the Charter at the Market Cross by town crier Alistair Proctor.
Later in the week an historic fair was held in the town centre. The Phoenix Dancers performed, creating the dances of the Elizabethan era in ankle-length dresses and hats.
DRESSED UP: The charter celebrations in 1989
Another tradition celebrated was the crowning of the May Queens - Katie Coward, nine, of Greystone Lane, Dalton.
Her ladies-in-waiting were Natalie Whitworth and Hayley Atkinson and her page boy was Andrew McMenemy.
The fair was opened by Mel Turner, headmaster of Dalton’s Dowdales School.
Other events during the celebrations included a 10km road race, a photography exhibition and a swimming gala.
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