LAST week Reading was hit by gale force winds, which toppled trees onto roads, buildings and railway tracks causing chaos for commuters, but 50 years ago this week, the less than perfect weather was spoiling a night of celebrations...

November 8, 1963 - Damp Squibs Galore – “Rain – not of the golden variety on Tuesday, doused the Guy Fawkes celebrations.

Many people postponed their fireworks festivities in the hope of better weather, but it didn’t deter everyone – some braved the weather despite getting drenched.

Despite bringing disappointment to the children the rain did have its good points.

The Berkshire and Reading Fire Brigade had no calls, neither did the Reading Police Force or the Berkshire Constabulary, and the most encouraging news of all – neither the Royal Berkshire nor Battle hospitals had any casualties.”