[From the Watford Observer of January 17, 1958]

While investigating a breaking and entering offence which had occurred at a cottage at Bovingdon, a police constable was handed a button found on the floor.

Quite by chance, as he left the premises, he stopped a passer-by and “by remarkable coincidence” noticed that a button was missing from the overcoat worn by the passer-by, said Mr D.T. Thorne, prosecuting at Hemel Hempstead Magistrates Court, on Wednesday.

Further examination by the officer, PC Michael Lane, revealed that the button in his possession in fact matched the others on the overcoat, added Mr Thorne.

Confronted with this evidence, the passer-by JJ, 22, a labourer, of no fixed abode, later made a statement admitting breaking into [the property] and stealing items valued at £35, it was stated.
JJ was sent for trial at Herts Quarter Sessions and PC Lane was commended by the magistrates for “an exceptionally fine piece of police work”.

Some useful tips:

Back in 1946, with the war not long over, times were still hard. Here are some useful tips published in the Watford Observer on January 4 of that year. You may find they’re still “useful” today.

When tumblers stick: After the party someone may have stacked the tumblers and two may have got stuck together.

To get them apart without breaking, pour cold water into the inner tumbler and stand the outer one in warm water. This expands the outer glass so they will come apart. Take care not to reverse the proceedings, or there will be a disaster!

Jam economy: If you want to spread some jam on top of a pudding, it will go farther if you heat it first in a small saucepan, adding a little water. This makes the jam much easier to spread.

A shiny suit: Poor men! Their old suits must go on and on for some time yet. Take pity on a shiny navy blue suit and remove the shine by sponging with vinegar and water. Use about two tablespoonsful vinegar to ½ pint warm water and sponge lightly. Brush while damp.

ONLINE TOMORROW: Watford observed - yet more stories from Januaries past

These stories formed part of the Nostalgia column first published in the Watford Observer on January 17, 2014. The next Nostalgia column – with information on football, toads and sausages among many other things – can be found in this week’s Watford Observer (dated January 24, 2014 and available in newsagents now, priced 90p) or read online here from 4pm on Thursday.

If you have anything to add – or would like to tell us anything you think our readers may enjoy about Watford’s history – we are always pleased to hear from you. Contact Nostalgia, by clicking here watfordnostalgia@london.newsquest.co.uk