In 1493, Christopher Columbus discovered manatees - otherwise known as sea cows.

In 1684, puppet shows and shopping stalls were set up on the River Thames during a deep freeze.

In 2000, the government admitted that a flu outbreak had reached epidemic levels.

25 years ago

Taken from the Telegraph & Argus of January 9, 1983

Multi-talented teenager Danny Cunningham's search for fame is in the hands of Bradford councillors, who must decide on a grant to allow him to attend the famous Italia Conti stage school in London.

50 years ago

Taken from the Telegraph & Argus of January 9, 1958

Bradford "A" Hospital Manage-ment Committee was allocated £1, 462, 000 for 1958-9 at today's meeting of the Leeds Regional Hospital Board at Harrogate.