“The history of British newspapers dates to the 17th century with the emergence of regular publications covering news and gossip. The relaxation of government censorship in the late 17th century led to a rise in publications, which in turn led to an increase in regulation throughout the 18th century. The Times began publication in 1785 and became the leading newspaper of the early 19th century, before the lifting of taxes on newspapers and technological innovations led to a boom in newspaper publishing in the late 19th century. Mass education and increasing affluence led to new papers such as the Daily Mail emerging at the end of the 19th century, aimed at lower-middle class readers.” Wikepedia

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The heading from the above newspaper in 1777 was the first date I have been able to find information relating to Thoralby in the newspaper. Click on the buttons below to view transcriptions of newspaper extracts relating to Thoralby.