This year marks 50 years since the Gazette was first published.

And to mark the occasion we have produced a special supplement taking a look back at its history.

The supplement is 32 pages of insight into how and when the Gazette was first published.

Our reporters have delved into the archives, spoken to historians and those who have worked for the title to produce the supplement.

It includes pictures of key events over five decades, interviews with former editors and loyal readers who have never missed an edition.

The supplement is a celebration of achievement and an invaluable record of life over the past 50 years in north Essex.

For the past 50 years, The Gazette has reported on Colchester stories which have impacted the community, shocked and seen the borough’s landscape change almost beyond recognition.

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The area’s population has boomed in the 50 years since the Gazette was launched going from 110,000 towards 180,000 today.

We've seen schools and hospitals expanded, homes built and charities set up.

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During the five decades we have reported on huge national stories, campaigned for vital improvements to the town and led battles to save our services.

There have been countless royal visits, showstopping criminal trials and bringing your stories to the forefront.

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The supplement will also explore how the Gazette was started by businessmen Hervey Benham and Mike Ellis back in 1970.

Get your copy on Tuesday free with your Daily Gazette.