Buntingford
Death
The death occured on April 19th of Mrs Caroline Woodcock.
The deceased, who was 62 years of age, has resided in the town for a number of years, and has been in failing health for some time.
The funeral took place at Layston Church yesterday.
Westmill
Organ Recital
A most successful organ recital was held in St Mary's Church on Sunday, April 18th after shortened evensong.
Mr J. Dykes Bower, from Cambridge, and Mr Mark Pasteur, from Hadham, gave solos on the organ; Miss Douglas played two violin solos; and Mr C. Longdon-Thurgood sang "Angels ever bright and fair" and "Easter Hymn"; Mrs Thurgood and Miss Pasteur sang a descant to the hymn "Oh worship the Lord" while the collection in aid of the Church Renovation Fund was being taken.
It amount to £12 11s., and on Monday further donations amounting to £11 3s. were received.
The Hon. Sec. of the Parochial Church Council is most grateful to all who so kindly helped.
Confirmation
Bishop Lander, the Suffragan Bishop of St Albans, conducted a Confirmation Service at St Peter's, Buntingford, on Thursday in last week.
There were 20 condidates for Confirmation from the following parishes - Layston 16, Bedford 1, Totteridge 1, and Meesden 2.
The Bishop gave a very helpful address, his text being "I have set before thee an open door."
In the evening the candidates were entertained to tea at the Parish Room by the Rev. A. and Mrs Howard. The Vicar also presented each of the candidates from Layston with a suitable book.
Rural District Council
ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN
Mr G.C. Wilson proposed that Captain H.H. Williams be elected Chairman for the ensuring year. Capt. Williams was one who had done a large amount of work for the Guardians and the Council, and he was one of those members who attended every meeting.
Capt. E.T. Morris seconded.
Capt. Williams, in thanking the members for electing him, said he appreciated the honour and privilege. The position meant a certain amount of work, but one's labours were lightened by the way in which the members worked together and by the Council's excellent clerk.
The Chairman then proposed that Mr G.C. Wilson be appointed Vice-Chairman. Mr Wilson had done a large amount of good and practical work.
Mr H.E. Dudley seconded.
Mr Wilson thanked the members for his appointment, and said he would do his best.
COMMITTEES
Mr C. Hummerstone proposed, and Mr W.J. May seconded, that the following be appointed to serve on the Housing Committee:
Mrs K.J. Dimsdale, Captain E.T. Morris, Capt. H.H. Williams, Messrs. F.B. Cannon, C. Fraser, G. Graves, C. Hummerstone, W.H. Kittow, H.C. Marshall, W.J. May, E.J. Marchal and G.C. Wilson.
The following were appointed to serve on the Hospital Committee:
Mrs K.J. Dimsdale, Rev. L.W. Wright, Capt. E.T. Morris, Capt. H.H. Williams, Messrs. John Bygrave, C. Fraser, C. Hummerstone, A.J. Hayes, H.C. Marshall, W.J. May and A.W. Page.
The following were appointed to serve on the Water and Sewage Farm Committee:
Capt. H.H. Williams, Messrs. F.B. Cannon, H.E. Dudley, W.H. Kittow, W.J. May, T.J. Stick and A.J. Hayes.
SURVEYOR'S REPORT
The Surveyor reported as follows:
ISOLATION HOSPITAL
No cases of infection disease have been notified during the month, and the hospital remains closed.
WATERWORKS
The consumption of water during the past month has been:
1st week - 264,000 gallons.
2nd week - 249,000 gallons.
3rd week - 256,000 gallons.
4th week - 258,000 gallons.
The water level remains stationary at 42 feet, being the same level as April 29th last year. Water services have been made to premises in the High Street for the Electro Tanneries, LTD., and to premises in the London Road.
WESTMILL WATER SUPPLY
In consequence of complaints made by the tenants of the Council's cottages alleging impurity of the water supply, a sample of water has been submitted to the Counties Laboratories for analysis.
The analyst reports as follows: "This is very hard water of the highest degree of organic purity. The hardness is such that it will rapidly fur kettles, boilers, &c. We regard the water as a pure and wholesome supply."
A same from the newly-dug well at Westmill has also been submitted for analysis, and the analyst reports: "This is a hard water containing a trace of vegetable matter in suspension, which is doubtless due to the recent sinking operation. In other respects it is satisfactory and of a fair degree of organic purity. Assuming that the well is efficiently constructed, we regard the water as suitable for drinking and domestic purposes.
HOUSING
The Survey reported on the Housing Scheme as follows:
All the cottages owned by the Council are in occupation.
A tenant makes application to erect a small motor shed at one of the cottages at Meesden.
The Chairman said the application would be granted.
A letter was read from the Ministry of Health with reference to the sundry expenditure in connection with the Housing Final Accounts, and stating that subject to audit the amounts would rank for financial assistance.
ELECTRIC LIGHT COMPANY
The North Metropolitan Electric Supply Company wrote stating that they had been obliged to alter their proposed route owing to the trouble of getting way leave. The route would not be about 500 yds. further east.
The Chairman said the Company had not stated where the new line would be diverted, and he thought it would be a good thing if the Clerk wrote and asked the Company.
This was agreed.
LOCAL EDUCATION
The Clerk stated that the Herts. County Council had asked the Council to appoint three members on the Local Education Committee of the Herts. County Council. The following were then elected: Capt. H.H. Williams, Messes. C. Hummerstone and G.C. Wilson.
ADVERTISEMENTS REGULATION ACTS
A circular was read from the Council Council respecting the above Act which gives power to protect from disfiguring advertisements.
1. The view of rural scenery from a highway or railway or from any public place or water.
2. The amenities of any village within the district of a Rural District Council.
3. The amenities of historic or public buildings &c.
The County Council also pointed out that a conference upon the subject was being held in London on Friday, 7th May, and asked for two representatives of the Council to be appointed to attend.
Capt. Morris proposed that Capt. H.H. Williams and the Rev. L.W. Wright be appointed. This was agreed.
GRANT
The Clerk stated that the sum of £93 0s. 10d. had been placed to the credit of the Council under the Agrucultural Rates Act of 1896.
Horticultural Society
A meeting of the Committee was held at the George Hotel last evening, when the question of reducing the money due to the Hon. Sec., in respect to the 1925 Show, was discussed.
It was reported that as some of the tickets had not been returned, the total in respect of the recent football match could not be arrived at.
It was decided to hold a whist drive and dance on Friday, May 14th, at the George Hotel, the first prize for whist being 1/2 ton of coal to each lady and gentleman, given by Mr Crane.
Bowls
The Buntingford Bowls Club commences its 1926 season tomorrow. Although the Club has secured a new and larger site for a bowling green, this year's play will take place at Layston Cottage through the kindness of Mrs H. Ashford.
Tomorrow's match will be between the Captain's and Vice-Captain's teams, and should prove very interesting. A number of friends have been invited and tea will be provided to all present.
Mr J. Lawrence is the new secretary and intending members should send their names to him as early as possible.
Buntingford Board of Guardians
The Chairmanship
The monthly meeting of the Buntingford Board of Guardians was held at the Board Room yesterday (Thursday).
Present: Capt. E.T. Morris, Capt. H.H. Williams, the Rev. L.W. Wright, Messrs. F.B. Cannon, W.J. May, G. Graves, E. Bygrave, T.J. Stick, E.J. Marchal, W.H. Kittow, A.J. Hayes, G.C. Wilson, H.E. Dudley, and C. Hummerstone, with the Clerk (Mr E.C. Clarke), the Master (Mr F.W. Butler), and the Relieving Officer (Mr H.H. Macklin).
Capt. H.H. Williams was voted to the chair.
THE CHAIRMANSHIP
The Chairman said the first business was to elect a new Chairman of the Board.
Mr W.J. May said he had much pleasure in proposing that Mr C. Hummerstone be appointed Chairman for the ensuing year. Mr Hummerstone had been on the Board for the past nine years, and no one had taken a keener interest in the affairs of the Board.
Mr A.J. Hayes seconded the proposition.
On taking the chair, Mr Hummerstone said he had hoped that Mr May would carry on for another year, but as it was the Board's wish that he (Mr Hummerstone) be elected Chairman he would do his best. (Hear, hear).
The Chairman moved that Mr F.B. Cannon be elected Vice-Chairman. The members all knew what interest Mr Cannon took in matters of local government.
The Rev. L.W. Wright seconded.
Mr Cannon thanked the members for electing him and said he would do his best.
COMMITTEES
On the proposition of Mr W.H. Kittow, seconded by Mr G.C. Wilson, the following were appointed to serve on the House Committee:
Mrs K.J. Dimsdale, Rev. L.W. Wright, Capt. E.T. Morris, Capt. H.H. Williams, Messrs. F.B. Cannon, C. Fraser, G. Graves, C. Hummerstone, H.C. Marshall, W.J. May, A.W. Page and G.C. Wilson.
Capt. H.H. Williams moved, and Mr F.B. Cannon seconded, that the following be appointed to serve on the Finance Committee:
Capt. E.T. Morris, Capt. H.H. Williams, Messrs. C. Fraser, C. Hummerstone, H.C. Marshall, W.J. May, E.J. Marchal, A.W. Page and G.C. Wilson.
The following were appointed to serve on the Assessment Committee on the proposition of Capt. E.T. Morris, seconded by Mr E.J. Marchal:Gr
Capt. E.T. Morris, Capt. H.H. Williams, Messrs. F.B. Cannon, H.E. Dudley, C. Fraser, C. Hummerstone, W.H. Kittow, W.J. May, T.J. Stick, and G.C. Wilson.
MASTER'S REPORT
The Master reported as follows:
Number of inmates - men 17, women 15, children 2. Total 34. Corresponding period last year - men 21, women 17, children 3. Total 41. Casuals 18. Corresponding period last year 9. Since the last meeting of the Board 55 casuals have been relieved.
GIFTS
Gifts of books have been received from the Captain (Salvation Army), Mrs Veasey, Mrs Scarborough Taylor and Mrs J. Smith. On 28th the inmates were invited to a concert given by "The Bunties" Concert Party, and a most enjoyable time was spent.
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A discussion arose as to the increased number of tramps, and the Master as given instructions with regard to certain cases.
The Chairman said the Board were grateful to the donors of the gifts and to "The Bunties" Concert Party.
HOUSE COMMITTEE REPORT
The House Committee visited the House on April 19th, and found the inmates carefully attended and comfortable.
The contract work to the day rooms, sick wards and scullery was well in hand. The question of dealing with the excess of tramps was discussed by the Committee.
The Committee also inspected the meat and found it quite satisfactory.
OFFICERS' SALARIES
The clerk read a circular from the Ministry of Health giving the average weekly cost per inmate for officers' salaries and rations, also of buildings and repairs. The following is an extract - Officers' salaries - Buntingford Union 7/5 and a half, Ware Union 9/3 and a half, Royston 8/5. Buildings and repairs - Buntingford Union 3/2 and a quarter, Ware Union 2/4, Royston Union 2/2 and a quarter.
The Chairman said the Buntingford figure of 3/2 and a quarter included the cost of the new heating arrangements.
RELIEF
Several cases of relief were dealt with by the Board, and instructions given to the Relieving Officer.
OVERSEERS
The Board appointed overseers for the following parishes: Broadfield, Buckland, Little Hormead, Meesden and Rushden.
GRANT UNDER THE AGRICULTURAL RATES ACT
The Clerk stated that the sum of £240 14s. 4d., under the Agricultural Rates Act, 1896, had been placed to the credit of the Guardians.
For Sale
Eggs - Black Leghorns, 2/6 per sitting. Apply, Pigg, Chipping.
Motor cycle for sale, cheap; In running order. Bentley, Moorfield House, Hare Street.
Women's Institute
Monthly Meeting
Parade of Shawls
The President, Mrs H.C. Marshall, presided at the monthly meeting of the Buntingford Women's Institute, held at the George Hotel on Wednesday in last week.
A demonstration on basket and cane work was given by Mr R.A. Bunn, of the H.C.C., and was watched very attentively by the members. Mr Bunn afterwards raffled the tray he made and gave the proceeds of the draw to the Teachers' Benevolent Society. The tray was won by Mrs T. Dellow.
On the proposition of the President, a hearty vote of thanks was accorded Mr Bunn for his very interesting demonstration.
There were 30 entrants for the parade of shawls, and some beautiful specimens were seen. Mrs T. Dellow was awarded first prize, Mrs Mottram second, and Mrs Scarborough Taylor third.
Votes of condolence were accorded Mrs H.J. Fordham, whose husband was killed at the Puckeridge Races, and Mrs Tapper, of Cottered.
The question of the summer outing was discussed, and it was suggested that an historical place such as Hampton Court be visited this year. The matter was left over for discussion.
Tea was served by Mrs H., Mrs W.J. and Mrs J May, of Wyddiall.
Cottered
Funeral of the Rev. W.J. Tapper
Amid evidences of the deepest sympathy and regret, the funeral of the Rev. W.J. Tapper, whose death we announced last week, took place at Cottered Parish Church on Saturday afternoon last.
The first portion of the service was taken by the Rural Dean (the Rev. F.R. Williams). The organist (Miss Beamiss) was at the organ, and played suitable music during the assembling of the congregation. The congregation was a very large and representative one, the spacious church being almost filled. The seating arrangements were in the hands of Mr T.J. Stick, Mr W.N. Sanders and Mr W.J. Pitcher.
The procession into the church was headed by the Rural Deal (the Rev. F.R. Williams), Rev. A.L. Panchaud, Rev. F.B. Harton, Rev. A. Howard, Rev. F.B. Phillips, Rev. H. Sheppard, Rev. Quinn, Rev. Fisher, Mr Stevenson, and Mr Busby (Lay Readers) and the Surplice Choir.
Following the chanting of Psalm 90, the hymn "The radiant morn has passed away" was feelingly sung, and the Lesson was read by the Rev A.L. Panchaud. Then came the singing of the following beautiful hymn:
[Transcriber note - The hymn can be read in the original image]
As the cortege left the church the congregation changed the Nunc Dimittis. The last sad rites took place at the graveside amid much manifestation of sorrow, the clergy taking part being the Rural Dean, the Rev. A. Howard and the Rev F.B. Phillips.
The family mourners were Mrs W.H. Tapper (wife), Messrs William and Cyril Tapper (sons), Miss M. Tapper (daughter), Messrs. Hugh and Kenneth Tapper (sons), Mr and Mrs Coulson (brother-in-law and sister), Mrs Oram (sister-in-law), Mrs Pidwell (sister-in-law) and Miss Wale.
Among others present, we observed the Rev. L.W. Wright, the Rev A. McKerr, Rev John Cole, Mr and Mrs H.E. Dudley, Mr and Mrs A.W. Page, Mr and Mrs T. Kingsley, Mr and Mrs W.N. Sanders, Mr and Mrs A. Beadle, Mr and Mrs R.M. Huil, Mr W.J. Pitcher, Mr T.J. Stick, Miss Gruner, Dr R.W. Fell, Mr and Mrs B.A. Edwards, Mr H. May, Mr and Mrs H. Cornwell, Mrs Charles, Mr and Mrs H. Sheppard, Miss Beamiss, Miss Wilderspin, Miss Pearman, Mr D. Kingsley and Mr Martin.
Beautiful floral tributes were received from sympathisers. The grave was beautifully lined with moss and bunches of primroses by Mr A. Beadle, who carried out the duties of undertaker in a very satisfactory manner.
After the funeral a muffled peal was rung on the church bells.
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Mrs Tapper and Family wish to express their heartfelt thanks for the many expressions of sympathy shown in their overwhelming sorrow, and for the beautiful flowers sent.
Cottered Rectory. April 23rd, 1926.
Buntingford
Layston Parish Council
The annual meeting of the Layston Parish Council was held in the Board Room on the 8th inst. Dr H.E. Dixon, who was re-elected chairman, presided. Owing to new legislation, this was the last occasion for the appointment of overseers.
The Council elected Messrs. A.G. Day and R.F. Dellow to act in this capacity for the ensuing year. The two vacancies on the Council were filled by the election of the Rev. F.J. Cole and Mr J. Lawrence, as councillors.
The Clerk submitted the Parish Council Accounts for the year. They showed receipts amounting to £54 10s. 0d. and an expenditure of £52 9s. 8d. They were unanimously passed, and there was no further business.
Help the Hospitals
The Whist Drive and Dance at the Benson Hall on Wednesday, April 14th, was an unqualified success. The total proceeds came to £31 3s. 1d., against which the only charge was £5 for prizes, leaving £26 3s. 1d. to be divided between the Hertford and Royston Hospitals. Each hospital has already received its half share of £13 1s. 7d.
This splendid result could not have been achieved if Father Morgan's efforts had not been so cordially and generously supported by all the Clubs and Societies of the district. The Town Band gave their services free of charge, and the Women's Institute (under the capable leadership of Mrs Fell) organised and sold the refreshments.
Also the following Clubs gave time and labour freely, besides subscribing these amounts:
Aspenden Sports' Club (and friends) £3 10s.; Boys' Club, 10/-; British Legion, £1 1s.; Bowls Club, £1 12s.; Football Club, £1; Musical Society, £1; Tennis Club, £1; Women's Institute, 15/-; Workmen's Club, 10/-.
Special thanks are also due to Mr Wilkerson, who made no charge for printing window bills, tickets, and advertisements in the Gazette. And to Father Morgan for giving the use of the Benson Hall and doing the secretarial work and general organisation.
Mrs Leslie gave an extra prize for the "lucky chair," and tables and cards were lent by the British Legion and Boys' Club.
Refreshments were provided by Mrs Stubbings, Mrs Wyman, Miss Parker, Mrs Leslie, Mrs Marshall, Mrs Williams, Mrs Fletcher, Mrs Blakiston, Miss Morgan, Mrs Philpott, Mrs Dixon, Miss Lushington, Mrs Coates, Mrs M.K. Smith, Mrs Croslegh, Mrs Fell, and the Convent.
The following helped to serve the refreshments: Mrs Aylott, Miss I. Aylott, Mrs S. Smith, Misses Camp, Mrs Feasey, Miss Ward, Misses Cornwell, Miss Blakiston, Mr Blakiston, Miss Parker, Miss Saunders, Mrs Leslie, Miss Leslie, Miss Lushington, Miss L. Graves, Mrs Thody. Messrs Moss lent china, glass, spoons, &c.
Mr P. Castle prepared the hall and cleaned up afterwards, assisted by Father and Miss Morgan.
At the whist, Mr Dennis was M.C. The prize winners were:
Ladies - 1 Miss Bower, 2 Miss M. Cornwell, 3 Miss Woodley; Consolation, Miss A. Deards.
Men - 1 Mr T. Martin, 2 Mr A. Francis, 3 Mr E. Ward; Consolation, Mr E. Moule.
Highest score, first half, Mr A. Moule; lucky ticket, Mrs Bedford; lucky chair, Mr E. Scrivener.
The prizes were presented by Dr Fell; and two hours' dancing to music supplied by the Town Band and Mrs Stapley wound up a successful and enjoyable evening. Mr L. Smith, as M.C., officiated in his usual tactful and efficient manner.
Horticultural Society
An Effort to Reduce the Deficit
The old established Buntingford Horticultural Society is faced with a large deficit, and the Committee is hoping to arrange various events to wipe off the adverse balance before the 1926 show is held.
A football match, in aid of the Society's funds, was held on the town ground on Wednesday. The arrangements were made by Mr J. Holmes, who captained the "Black and Whites," and Mr J. Thody, who captained the "Reds." Unfortunately, heavy rain fell just before the match, and this considerably affected the attendance.
The weather cleared before half-time, and, as a number of admission tickets had been previously sold there was a good attendance.
The "Black and Whites" team was chiefly composed of Cheshunt players with W. Hatchett and H. Birkett of the Buntingford Club. After the interval the "Reds" scored four more goals to their opponents' one.
Final score - "Reds" 8, "Black & Whites" 4.
Thanks are due to Mr E.E. Dennis, who officiated as M.C., the Town Football Club, for the use of the ground, to Mr J. Holmes, who entertained the "Black & Whites" and the Town Silver Band, who were in attendance and played selections during the interval.
A very obstinate animal - a cross between a horse and a camel - was led round by Bandmaster E. Smith, and in addition to causing a good deal of fun was the means of collecting £1 for the funds.
Later in the evening, the Silver Cup, presented by Mr C.H. Poulton, was handed to the Captain of the winning team.
Great Hormead
The Bunties
"The Bunties" Pierrot Troupe gave a variety entertainment at the Village Hall on Friday evening last to a very appreciative audience. The programme was the same as that presented at Buntingford.
At the close Mr Codrington proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the Troupe, who he said, had given a delightful programme.
Cheers were then given for the Troupe, after which Mr Scarborough Taylor returned thanks.
Buckland
Women's Institute
The April monthly meeting was again well attended in the school on the 14th inst. at 6.30 p.m.
The business having been gone through, Mrs Vernede gave a perfectly clear and interesting talk on "Her Travels in America." A very hearty clap was accorded her by the members to show how very much they had appreciated her kindess in coming over from Standon to thus address them.
Tea was served by the following hostesses - Miss F. Pigg, Mesdames Coxall, Jackson, Jarman, Young, and Miss L. Malyon.
Games and dancing were next indulged in, and a very happy meeting closed with the singing of God Save the King.
The two whist drives held recently in aid of the members' summer outing met with very good results, £11 7s. 6d. having been cleared for that purpose.
Anstey
Prizewinners
At the Ploughing Competitions held at Anstey on 9th October last, Mr H. Cox offered prizes to the schoolchidren present for the best essay on the competitions.
There were many entries and the task of judging has taken a considerable time. The results have now been published, and it is pleasing to note that both prizewinners reside at Anstey.
Reginald Bentley has been awarded first prize and Thomas Barklem second.
Situations Vacant
Wanted, a respectable young Girl, daily, to take child to school and help housework. Mrs Fletcher, Aspenden.
Wyddiall
Wedding
A very pretty and interesting wedding took place at St Giles' Church, Wyddiall, on Easter Sunday, the Rev. L.W. Wright officiating.
The interested parties were Mr Albert E. Bonfield, second son of Mr and Mrs S. Bonfield, of Moles Farm, Wyddiall, and Miss V.L. Springham, only daughter of Mr and Mrs A. Springham, of Waltham Abbey.
The bride looked very pretty in a white satin dress with a wrath of orange blossom and veil. She was given away by her father, Mr A. Springham. Two bridesmaids were in attendance, Miss A. Bonfield (sister of the bridegroom) and Miss M. Oram. Both were prettily dressed. The bride carried a bouquet of lilies.
There were about 60 people in the church to witness the ceremony, and 30 guests were present at the Wedding Breakfast, which was held at the bridegroom's home. The duties of best man were performed by Mr H. Pledger, jun. The wedding presents were numerous and useful, numbering over 60.
The happy couple are leaving Wyddiall shortly to take up their resience at Burnt Mill, Essex.
Westmill
Whist Drive and Fancy Dress Dance
The attendance at the whist drive and dance held at the Village Hall on Tuesday evening exceeded all expectations. The event was an entire success, and the promoters are to be congratulated on the result. The proceeds are being devoted to the Social Club.
Fifteen tables were in use for whist, and the following were the successful players:
Ladies - 1 Miss Hilda Reed (umbrella), 2 Mrs Barnes (chocolates); consolation, Miss Dora Jackson (handkerchiefs).
Gents - 1 Master T. Hummerstone (walking stick), 2 Mr L. Pegram (cigarettes); consolation, Mr Alec Pratt (handkerchiefs).
There were several entries for the fancy dress competition. Mr Hugh Holmes as "John Bull" won first prize (fountain pen), Miss Theakston as a "Dutch Boy" second (box of chocolates), while the prize (a clock) for the most original design was won by Miss Deacon, her "scarecrow" costume being very striking.
The prizes were presented to the winners by Mrs H.H. Williams who congratulated the recipients.
An excellent programme of up-to-date dance music was provided by Mr C. Little. Mr H. Bright very ably acted as M.C. throughout the evening.
Tennis Club
Annual Whist Drive
The annual whist drive and and dance, in aid of the Buntingford Tennis Club, was held at the Benson Hall on Easter Monday. Owing to other whist drives in the neighbouring villages there was not such a large gathering as last year.
Twelve tables were in use for whist, and Mr H. Clarke kindly acted M.C. The prize winners were:
Ladies - 1, Miss Morley, 184 (case of pastry forks); 2, Mrs Wallis, 170 (fruit dish); 3, Mrs H. Handy, 170 (box of handkerchiefs).
Gents - 1, Mr W. Watson, 177 (clock); 2, Mr T. Wornham, 171 (pair of etchings); 3, Mr E. Moule, 169 (pair of socks), Lowest score - Mrs Large (Easter egg).
A number came in for dancing after the whist, and the Town Band provided an excellent programme of music. Mr L. Smith was M.C.