spend a penny

before 1902 writers of postcards had to put their message on the front beside the image while the reverse was only for address.
Young Ridley sends this pre 1902 card to Wray in Hexham stating Dunoon pier is "horrid" because it costs one penny to access which for a boy wanting to steamer spot would be frustrating. By then nearly 20 steamers a day were calling at Dunoon from three railheads on the Clyde.
The xtra is an example of post 1902 design change to having the full picture with message and address on the reverse as is the case today this a colour card to Tyneside dated 1912 with great holiday crowds being entertained by water games in the sheltered pier basin