Comment: Fife Free Press - 150 years recording history of our town

The words of the American historian, Henry Steel Commager, on the role of newspapers.

It seems an apt quote as the Fife Free Press marks its 150th birthday.

A century and a half ago, to this very day, the first ever edition of this newspaper rolled off a second hand printing press.

And it did so with one clear pledge: to chronicle and criticise faithfully and independently all events which affect the interests of the public, whether as individuals or as a community.

That remains as true today as it did on January 28, 1871 when Messrs Strachan and Livingston laid the foundations of what was to become an institution.

Over the course of 150 years, the Press has recorded the history of this district - its successes and setbacks - and celebrated the people and organisations who have shaped its destiny.

It has been part of your family for generations; a trusted voice in dark times, and a champion of many campaigns in support of the Lang Toun.

And the Press remains the go-to place to raise issues of concern - we are proud to speak-up for our town.

In pictures: Fife Free Press launched as a tabloid 10 years ago

Lockdown may have spiked many of our plans to celebrate this most wonderful of anniversaries, but tonight we shall raise a glass and toast all who have supported the Press - our readers, advertisers, generations of delivery boys and girls, and our colleagues across the decades who have all helped to create the best weekly newspapers in Scotland