DID you know that 25 years ago plans to introduce topless barmaids at a Llangynidr public house were in place? Or that over 1000 bulbs were stolen from Abergavenny's Christmas tree as police went about the business of looking for a light fingered thief?

If not, then perhaps you'd be advised to buy a copy of a new 2009 calendar produced by Monmouthshire Enterprises Office Services (MEOC) called a 'Trip Down Memory Lane'.

Month by month the bumper calendar delivers a treasure trove of interesting and quirky facts about Abergavenny from 10 and 25 years ago.

Each month also features a before and after picture of famous buildings and landmarks in Abergavenny that are bound to provoke more than a few misty eyed recollections amongst local people.

The calendar was designed and printed by the students at MEOC, which provides training and development opportunities to people of working age who have learning, physical, and mental health needs.

Based at Tudor Street, Abergavenny, students can develop skills in office work, whilst providing a design and print service to the general public and local businesses.

The calendar was originally the brainchild of staff member Cheryl England who told the Chronicle, "It's a relief to finally have the end product in our hands. It's been a long, rocky road from the initial idea to final completion.

"All the students have worked really hard, and it was always their project. From taking the modern day pictures to utilising the technology needed to make the idea a reality.

"I would also like to thank the Abergavenny Chronicle for allowing us access to the their library archives in order to carry out the essential historical research needed for the calendar, and Chris Barber for his help with photos documenting old Abergavenny."

Cheryl added, "I hope that the older generation will really enjoy the memories that this calendar will invoke, and that the younger generation will appreciate the way Abergavenny has changed over the years.

"I also like to think that visitors to Abergavenny will also find much of interest in it, and all of us at MEOC believe it would be a great souvenir for people to take away with them after spending time in the 'Gateway to Wales.'"

All proceeds from the sale of 'A Trip Down Memory Lane' will go back into MEOC. It retails for £4.50 and is available from Office Services in Tudor Street (01873 859758).

Alternately you can buy a copy from the Abergavenny Chronicle offices, or visit the Abergavenny market on November 20, where MEOC will have a special one-off stall.