WE are all familiar with the World Wars, the Hundred Years War and even The War of the Roses – but what about the lesser known Lordshill Ice Cream Wars?

It was the summer of 1985 when a fight for survival broke out between traders battling for a lucrative but limited market in Lordshill.

The weapons used were price cuts, larger portions, free sauces, free sweets and specials – including a double cone decorated with an upturned lolly.

Ray Digweed, a painter and decorator outside the March-to-October season, alleged that other independent sellers and a big firm were trying to force him out.

George of Super International said trade was so tight he felt it was unfair for someone to appear during the money-spinning summer.

George claimed he had been shadowed along his sales route and that informal agreements about operating times and territory had been broken.

“There would have been enough business to go round. It is a simple matter of greed,” George commented.

Youngsters from Pembrey Close got together on April 30, 1985, to show their support for ice cream man Ray Digweed.

The kids brandished banners and placards bearing messages such as “Stay With Us Ray” and “We Love Ices From Ray” - although he admitted to making them himself.

ON THIS DAY…

A first class stamp cost 17p.

Compilation album Hits 2 was the best seller.

Phyllis Nelson was at number one with Move Closer.

Thinner by Richard Bachman (pseudonym for Stephen King) was the New York Times best selling book.

People may have been watching the new soap Eastenders on TV.

Gamers may have been playing Impossible Mission.

Top of the box office was Stick.