In the short years of Edward VII’s reign great things would happen, and great events unfold. In 1908 the “Friend” marvelled at man’s conquest of the skies by men such as the Wright brothers and Bleriot. Recognised as the longest-running women’s weekly magazine, you’ll be surprised at the momentous events and anniversaries that have taken place around the world since “The Friend” was first launched. Since 1869, the magazine has witnessed social upheaval and amazing inventions, seen monarchs come and go, men set foot on the moon and women gain the vote – but it has never lost its instinct for what its readers want from their magazine. For now, at least, the war was over, life could return to normal – and the “Friend” and its readers could look forward to the future. Supplements such as “Aunt Kate’s Jumper Book” and “Aunt Kate’s Cookery Book” were included free with “The People’s Friend”.

Riley has four sisters and has been bridesmaid every time, in “Four Weddings And A Cake”, by Eirin Thompson. Artwork, Martin Baines.An imaginary pet leaves one little lad “In The Dog House”, in Becca Robin’s short story. Illustrated by Pat Gregory. If you’re an author yet to be published in the “Friend”, please send your story to [email protected] The Love Darg, The People’s Friend’s own charitable appeal, started in 1895. The name came from an old Scots phrase meaning “a day’s work done for love”. In time it transformed into a major nationwide charitable appeal where readers would make thousands of gifts which were donated annually to over 80 hospitals, children’s homes, care homes and hospices across the UK in time for Christmas. It’s still going today, with readers knitting or crocheting items or giving cash donations each year.

We also take a look “Through The Manse Window”, with thoughts and reflections from cherished contributors. Next Year’s Annuals In 1981, “The People’s Friend” introduced a new “filler” feature to the magazine. It was called “The Farmer And His Wife” and was a series of couthy tales told by a fictional farmer named John Taylor. Village newcomer Alice hopes to make new friends by sharing her “Damsons In Distress!”. By Jane Bettany, with artwork from Andre Leonard. and in “Everything Changes”, by Alyson Hilbourne, a WW2 bombing raid leads to an extended family. Artwork, Ged Fay. Diane loses her beloved climbing rose, and struggles to find a replacement in “A Rose By Any Other Name”, by Patsy Collins. Artwork, Ruth Blair.Dundee became known as the “City of the 3 Js”– jute, jam and journalism, reflecting the importance of these three very different industries to the prosperity of the city. We follow the year in nature, learning fascinating facts about our beloved British wildlife along the way.

With Queen Victoria on the throne, and Prime Minister William Gladstone in No. 10, Downing Street, a publishing revolution was underway in the Scottish city of Dundee. This culminated in the launch of “The People’s Friend” on January 13, 1869. Cara is cat-sitting for her lovely gran. What could go wrong?! “A Major Problem”, by Eirin Thompson, is illustrated by Mandy Murray. A four-legged friend helps heal a family rift in “Lead The Way”, by Jane Ayres. Illustration from Tracy Fennell.Our opening story is “The Perfect Resolution” by Eirin Thompson. Dorothy has a New Year’s Resolution – but it’s not concerning herself, it’s concerning her son!

History repeated itself with the outbreak of World War II in 1939, and once again the “Friend” would do its utmost to bring cheer and comfort to its readers. The magazine encouraged help with their Love Darg appeal.Norma’s husband starts bird-watching in his retirement, but the calm descends into mayhem when squirrels invade the garden! “Driving Me Nuts” is by Kate Hogan.