Aspenden
Fire
There was a blaze in the village last evening, when two straw stacks, the property of Mr Crouch, were completely destroyed by fire.
The outbreak occured at about 8 o'clock, and the reflection of thethe flames attracted many persons from neighbouring villages to a field opposite the Sports Ground, where the fire occurred.
The cause of the outbreak is unknown.
Benson Hall
In spite of the heavy rain which fell last Wednesday evening, the dance in the Benson Hall was well attended; in fact, nearly as many were present as could fit comfortably on the spacious floor, which is known as the best dancing floor for miles around.
Mr Blakiston, who filled the post of M.C. in his usual accomplished manner, announced that prizes would be given for a spot dance and for the best "fancy dress." No prizes had been promised for either event, but the Management felt that some recognition was due to the large number who had braved the elements, among whom were visitors from Cottered, Therfield, Puckeridge, Aspenden and Hare Street.
The Standon Orchestra kindly undertook the difficult task of judging the entries in the "Fancy Dress Parade" - "difficult" because of the clever portrayal of the varied characters selected. The prizes went to Miss Kelly, The Limes, Therfield, who came as the "Blue Moon"; and to Mr Kelly, of the same address, who was a "French Cavalier," with wig, uniform, cocked hat, and sword complete.
The gentlemen, however, had already agreed that as the "fancy dress" ladies exceeded the gentlemen in number, the men's prize should go to the second lady, and this award was to Miss May Mulvany (of Aspenden), who represented a "Spinning Top."
The spot dance prizes were won by Mr Mead and Miss Norris; and the "lucky ticket" prize of 7/6 by Mr W. Game of Buntingford.
Novelties were distributed after the interval. Masks, hats, crowns, spectacles, false noses, whistles, puff-outs and similar features added to the general merriment; and red electrics enhanced the colour scheme adopted by the energetic Decorating Committee, who had suspeded festoons and streamers across the Hall, producing an effect well worth seeing.
The refreshments, to which justice was done, were provided by the Committee and friends. The total receipts came to £7 11s. 1d.
Father Morgan wishes to thank all who helped to make the event such a success, both the capable workers and those who patronised the dance in spite of the inclement weather.
An invitation "Leap Year" dance is announced for February 29th, with the new Buntingford Dance Orchestra in attendance.
Aspenden
A meeting of the Bellringers of the Ancient Parish Church of St Mary will be held in the Schoolroom on Thursday, November 1st, at 7.30 p.m. It is proposed to form a Ringers' Guild, and to have at least sixteen Ringers. The Rector invites all those interested in ringing to be present. It is hoped that several young men will come forward to be taught on these wonderful old bells. The meeting will elect a Captain, Vice-Captain and Secretary.
Special Services will be held on Armistice Day - November 11th - at 3 and 6.30. Major Richard Pigg, B.A., O.B.E., T.D., J.P., will address the afternoon Service and the Rector will preach a special sermon at evensong, when the Buntingford Silver Band will be present. The offertories will be given to Earl Haig's Fund.
The Bishop of St Albans will hold a Confirmation Service and Sunday, November 18th, at 3 p.m. His Lordship will also dedicate the new electric lighting and heating to the memory of the late Mr Poulton, verger for 50 years.
A Church Meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 21st, in the Parish Room at 7.30 to welcome into Church fellowship the newly confirmed.
Arrangements are being made for a robed choir and there are vacancies for men and boys. Applicants should apply to the Rector.
Death of Mrs C. Perry
We regret to record the death, which occurred recently, of Mrs C. Perry, who passed away at her daughter's house at Mardock, near Ware.
Mrs Perry was for some years a well-known and respected inhabitant of this town, and was the widow of Mr C. Perry, who served as a guard on the Buntingford branch of the Great Eastern Railway for over twenty years; he was one of the Company's most faithful servants.
Mrs Perry, who was 76 years of age, had been ill for some time, during which she was nursed by her daughter, Mrs Groom of Mardock.
The moral remains were conveyed to Buntingford by rail and carried to Aspenden, in which Churchyard they were laid to rest in the grave of her husband. The Rector, Rev. L.A. Ewart, conducted the service, during which the hymn "Jesu, Lover of my soul" was sung.
There were many old friends at the graveside to pay their last respects to the deceased. The immediate mourners were Mrs Ivory, Mrs P. Bennett, Mrs Baker, Mrs Groom (daughters), Mr Ivory, Mr P. Bennett and Mr Groom (sons-in-law), Mr T. Perry (son) and Mrs T. Perry (daughter-in-law).