During the 1870s the “Friend” set about establishing its place in the hearts of its devoted readers. Riley has four sisters and has been bridesmaid every time, in “Four Weddings And A Cake”, by Eirin Thompson. Artwork, Martin Baines.

If you’re an author yet to be published in the “Friend”, please send your story to [email protected]

Cookery, craft and lifestyle

We’re in 1980 for our next story, set around a college quiz night. “A Little Knowledge”, by Gwen Rollinson, is illustrated by Philip Crabb. We also take a look “Through The Manse Window”, with thoughts and reflections from cherished contributors. Next Year’s Annuals

And sometimes – like this week – I’ll post a general round-up of the latest news from the Fiction Desk. The Fiction Team

We follow the year in nature, learning fascinating facts about our beloved British wildlife along the way. We’re “Out On The Moors” in our next story, and according to legend, the former inhabitants of one house are reputed never to have left…by Shona Partridge, with artwork from Sailesh Thakrar. Official recognition of the magazine’s achievements and contribution to the world of publishing came with a string of awards, including Magazine Of The Year. William Crawford Honeyman had a column in the magazine entitled “For Violin Players” which ran between 1897 and 1909.