The Sheerness Times Guardian has begun its 150th anniversary year.

To mark the actual anniversary week, the first ever front page of the Isle of Sheppey Weekly was reproduced for readers to keep.

And a ‘150 community chest’ is to be set up – with eventual funds going to local good causes.

The central event will be in August when 150 guests join Times Guardian staff for a four-hour pleasure cruise around the island.

Fund-raising quizzes and involvement in existing island activities are also planned as staff pledge to make 2008 a year to remember.

Editor Matt Ramsden said: “Many months of planning are now coming together to give our readers a fantastic opportunity to join us in marking this momentous year.

“Our advertising manager, Sharon Patrick, has done a tremendous job in getting the island business community onboard and we are looking forward to rewarding our readers’ loyalty.

“There are plans in the pipeline for another special event to mark the anniversary year but I am not in a position to reveal its details just yet. However, I would urge people to watch this space.”