28th December 1928 - Aspenden Parish Church

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Aspenden Parish Church

There was a record number of communicants on Christmas Day, and the service on Christmas morn was a bright and happy one.

The bells ushered in the festival by a joyous peal, which proclaimed the dawning of Christmas Day.

The Rector, Rev. L.A. Ewart, preached an appropriate sermon at the morning service, dealing with the episodes of the First Christmas Night, showing that the scene at Bethlehem during the birth of the Holy Infant proved that God honoured animal creation, childhood and motherhood.

The hymns were rendered with style, and the interior of the Church was tastefully decorated. The collection, which was devoted to the coal club, came to the record sum of £3 19s.

On the previous Sunday, there was a large congregation at a carol service in the evening, when the children of the Senior School sang carols under the direction of Mr E.E. Dennis. The Rector preached on the subject of the Christmas Child.

6th August 1926 - Buntingford Local Association of Boy Scouts

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Buntingford Local Association of Boy Scouts

The Annual Rally in connection with the Buntingford and District Local Association of Boy Scouts was held on Wednesday in last week at Longmead (by king permission of H.C. Marshall, Esq., J.P.) There was keen competition and the rally was very successful.

The following three troops competed - Buntingford, Brent Pelham and Furneaux Pelham.

A 3 o'clock the scouts, who were in charge of District Commissioner Major M.E. Barclay, paraded on the Market Hill and then marched to "Longmead," where they competed for the Shield, which was previously held by the Brent Pelham Troop.

As will be seen by the following list, Buntingford and Brent Pelham each gained 75 out of a possible 90 marks, and therefore will hold the shield for six months each.

Buntingford

Turnout - 17

Ambulance - 15

Signalling - 16

Tent Pitching - 17 

Fire Lighting - 10

Total - 75

Brent Pelham

Turnout - 18

Ambulance - 14

Signalling - 20

Tent Pitching - 15

Fire Lighting - 8

Total - 75

Furneaux Pelham

Turnout - 16

Ambulance - 11

Signalling - 18

Tent Pitching - 14

Fire Lighting - 9

Total - 68

Marks possible 90.

The judges were Dr Campbell, Mr E.E. Dennis and Mr G. Last, and Messrs. A. Lake, F.W. Butler, A. Freeman and E.J. Totman acted as stewards.

Mrs Marshall kindly presented the shield to the winning troops, and the scouts thoroughly enjoyed the other sports which took place.

Mr E.E. Dennis (Hon. Sec and Treasurer) thanked Mr and Mrs Marshall for their kindness in placing the meadow at the disposal of the Association, and also for the excellent tea which had been provided.

Major Barclay also spoke of the great interest Mr Marshall had always taken in the Scout Movement in the district.

Cheers were then given for Mr and Mrs Marshall, Major Barclay (Secretary) and helps.

Special thanks are due to Messrs. G. Handy, H. May, S. Daniels, E.G. Thody, B.E. Thody, Harry Clark and the Buntingford Congregational Church for loan of materials.

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We have been asked to mention that Scoutmasters are still wanted. More troops could be found if Scoutmasters can be obtained.

17th September 1926 - Rural Evening Classes

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Rural Evening Classes

The Buntingford Local Education Sub-Committee, of which the Rev. F.R. Williams, Rector of Anstey, is the chairman, have obtained the sanction of the County Council for classes to be held at Buntingford technical Institute during the season 1926-27 in some ten subjects.

The comprise woodwork, educational, handwork, and domestic handicrafts, shorthand, book keeping and office routine, and four new subjects - cookery, needlework, agriculture and horticulture.

There is a greater choice of subjects, and this is certain to prove very advantageous, and there is every promise that the young men and women of this town and district will seize the opportunity offered of making themselves proficient in one or more of the selected subjects.

The committee are doing their utmost to make the classes a success, and are anxious to secure as many students as possible. They hope most of the late students will again attend, and also induce their friends to join the classes.

Particular attention is draw [sic] to the agricultural and horticultural class, which the sub-committee are of opinion is especially likely to attract pupils from the outlying villages.

The time tables will be issued shortly, with the names of the teachers, and it is hoped the classes will be opened and start their activity of usefulness the first week in October.

Full information respecting the various classes can be obtained from Mr E.C. Clarke, the clerk to the sub-committee. The responsible teacher who will advise and supervise the whole of the classes is Mr E.E. Dennis, Head Master of the Buntingford Senior Mixed School.

29th October 1926 - Buntingford Bowls Club Annual Dinner

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Buntingford Bowls Club

Annual Dinner

The annual dinner, in connection with the Buntingford Bowls Club, was held at the George Hotel on Wednesday evening in last week, when a company of about 60 spent a very happy time.

The chair was taken by Mr H.C. Marshall, the President of the Club, who was supported by Mr George Aston, Mr Claud Fraser, Capt. H.H. Williams, Mr W. Chapman-Wood and others.

An excellent four-course menu was provided by the Host and Hostess, Mr and Mrs J. Holmes, after which the loyal toast was enthusiastically honoured on the proposition of the Chairman.

"The Club"

Mr Claud Fraser said he had the privilege of proposing the toast of the evening, "The Buntingford Bowls Club." The Club had been making history, and it was a great pleasure to the inhabitants of the town to see the Buntingford Club at the end of the East Herts League Table.

The members had played with a spirit of sportsmanship, and they had just cause to be proud of their achievements. The speaker then referred to the new green, and the prospects it held out for the future; it was situate near his house, and he would regard himself as a kind of guardian. He hoped that Buntingford Bowls Club would flourish by root and branch forever. (Applause).

In responding, Mr W.J. May, the popular captain of the Club, said the Club had many friends in Buntingford and in the district.

During the season, the Club had won 12 out of 18 matches, and had carried off the George Aston Challenge Cup. Everyone felt greatly indebted to Mr Aston who had done so much for the game of bowls. (Applause).

Others he would like specially to mention were the President, who had found the money for the new ground, and Mr Thody who had again come forward and lent them plants and decorations for the room that evening. (Applause).

Mr J. Boniwell, the veteran of the Club, also responded. He said he started the Club himself in 1913, and it was a pleasure to him to see the Club had reach [sic] such a high level. Their Captain, Mr May, had done a lot to bring success. (Hear, hear). It had become the habit of his (Mr Boniwell's) friends not only of the Buntingford Club, but also of all the other Clubs in the league to call him "Dad," and after matches the Buntingford Club members invariably said "Well Dad, what do you think of us now."

To one and all of them he would now say "You have done well, and I hope you will keep up the record." (Applause).

"The League"

Captain H.H. Williams, who rose to propose the toast of the "East Herts Bowls League," said he always remembered being taught at school that the whole of a thing is larger than its parts; he would say, therefore, that but for the East Herts Bowls League there would be no competition or Challenge Cup.

It was a pleasure to have Mr Aston with them that evening. There was little doubt that the League owed its success to the harmonious way in which the clubs worked, and to the excellent organisation. The speaker then paid a tribute to the Executive of the League and to Mr Chapman-Wood, and referred to "that extraordinary good publication" - the League Handbook. (Applause).

Mr George Aston, who was applauded on rising, congratulated the Buntingford Club on winning the Challenge Cup; he also thought they were very lucky in getting the support they did from their President and others.

The whole success of the league was due to the Executive, to Mr Chapman-Wood, and to all the affiliated clubs who had all played the game as it should be played. (Hear, hear).

Continuing, Mr Aston said that since he had been in Herts. nothing had given him greater pleasure than to be President of the East Herts. Bowls League, which he hoped would go on for many years. (Applause).

A replica of the cup was then presented to Mr W.J. May, who suitably replied.

Mr G. Scarborough Taylor, who proposed the toast of "The Guests," said that amongst others, they had Mr Chapman-Wood with them that evening. Both through the press and on the executive, Mr Chapman-Wood had done an enormous amount of work for the game. They were also delighted to have Dr Dixon with them once again. (Applause).

Mr Chapman-Wood and Dr H.E. Dixon both esponded. The former said that although the Buntingford Club lived on the outskirts of the leagure area, and had to travel the farthest they had won through.

He was afraid that he did not know much about the actual game of bowls, although he knew the bias side of a wood - (laughter) - and some day he hoped to play the game. The speaker then made some humourous remarks and concluded by expressing his pleasure at being present that evening, and thanking them for the cordial way in which they had received the toast.

Dr H.E. Dixon said the ancient game had been played in the true spirit of sport by several able bodied men of the town, and he was pleased to be amongst such a happy company.

The toast of the "Vice-Presidents" was proposed by the Rev. L.W. Wright, who said that no club could get on with the aid of its Vice-Presidents. To the members of the Club he would say that now they have ascended to the pinnacle of success they needed a little more caution than before. They had set themselves a great task, as the town looked forward to them to retain the title they had won. (Applause).

Mr E.E. Dennis replied, and said that the Vice-Presidents were especially pleased at the honour the Club had won they wished the Club success next year, and in the years to come.

"The Chairman"

Mr C.H. Poulton proposed the toast of "The Chairman." No club in Herts, he said, could boast of a better president.

Mr Marshall gave so much away that he would probably find one day that he had no money left. (Laughter). They had to thank Mr Marshall for many things in Buntingford, and without doubt he had proved himself to be a worthy son of a worthy father. (Applause).

The Chairman, in replying, said it was a pleasure to be President of any club in Buntingford. He thought it was communism in the best sense of the word, because everyone worked together so splendidly. He thought himself very fortunate to be amongest them, as when he came to Buntingford some 17 years ago, he did not think he would even find so many good friends. (Applause).

Dr R.W. Fell proposed a vote of thanks to the Artistes. Music was one of the most essentials of life, and the artistes that evening were excellent. Mr Jack Pierce responded.

Presentation of Prizes

During the evening the Chairman presented a Silver Challenge Cup to Mr E.R. Brett and a gold medal to Mr E.J. Totman.

The music items were rendered by The Rev. L.W. Wright, Mr J. Pierce, Mr A. May and Mr V. Pledger, and were very much enjoyed.

After thanks to Mr and Mrs J. Holmes, the Secretary (Mr J. Lawrence) and his dinner committee the evening concluded with the National Anthem.

15th October 1926 - Football - Aspenden v Buntingford Town

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Football

Aspenden v. Buntingford Town

Aspenden entertained Buntingford in a friendly on Saturday last, and were defeated by 4 goals to 1.

The score was rather flattering to the winners, and a draw would have been a fairer result.

Aspenden attacked strongly in the first-half, but it was the Town that scored first, following a melee in front of the home goal with the goalkeeper out, R. Pledger put through.

This was followed by some fine play on the home left wing and after some missed chances, E. Newman scored the best goal of the match, making the interval score 1-1.

Buntingford started to press in the second-half and an error by the home defence led to S. Thorogood scoring.

Aspenden attacked after this, and only some fine goalkeeping stopped them from scoring. A centre by the visitors left wing, which R. Parker had the misfortune to put through his own goal, and a poor clearance by the home-defence gave H. Clark and easy chance which he accepted.

Mr E.E. Dennis was the referee.

8th October 1926 - Whist Drive

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Whist Drive

Twenty-five tables were occupied at a whist drive held at the Benson Hall on Wednesday evening in last week in aid of the Town Football Club funds.

Other persons came in later for dancing, and altogether a very pleasant evening was spent by all.

Mr H. Clark was M.C. for whist, and prizes were won by the following:

Ladies - 1 Miss Cannon, 2 Mrs Cornwell, 3 Mr Hatchett (playing as lady).

Gents - 1 Mr C. Smith, 2 Mr Hutchins, 3 Mr A Dray.

Highest score first-half - Mr E.E. Dennis (94).

Lucky ticket - Mr W.T. Budd.

For the dancing which followed, Mr Leslie Smith was an efficiant M.C.

The music was supplied by the Standon Orchestra, and gave every satisfaction.

8th October 1926 - Aspenden Football Club

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Aspenden Football Club

To raise funds for the Aspenden Football Club, a whist drive took place at the George Assembly Room on Wednesday last.

Nine tables were occupied, with Mr Dennis as M.C.

Prizes were won by the following:

Ladies - 1 Mr R. Pledger (playing as lady), 176 (7/-); 2 Mr G. Holmes (playing as lady), 170 (4/-).

Gents - 1 Mr T. Martin, 171 (7/-); 2 Mr A. Clark, 170 (4/-).

Refreshments were served at the interval, and a pleasant time was spent.

1st October 1926 - Buntingford and District Musical Society

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Buntingford & District Musical Society

Annual General Meeting

The Season's Work

The annual general meeting of the Buntingford and District Musical Society was held at the Congregational Schoolroom on September 20.

Dr R.W. Fell, M.D., presided, and there was a good attendance of members.

Before the commencement of the business, the chairman said he would like to compliment the Society on its splendid success last season.

At the Letchworth Festival they had carried off two cups, two firsts and one second, which was a great honour. Personally he felt that it was a great honour to be president of such a Society.

In congratulating them on their past record, he also expressed the hope that their work in the coming season would reach an equally high standard.

1926-27 Season

The coming winter season was discussed, and it was decided to hold practices every Monday at 7 p.m. Members were also asked to enrol new members, tenors being especially required.

The Herts Musical Festival will be held at St Albans early next year, and any wishing to join the Society should obtain particulars from the Conductor (Mr E.E. Dennis), Mr H. Cutts, Mr A.G. Day, or Mr S. Daniels.

Election of Officers

The election of officers resulted as follows: President (Dr R.W. Fell, M.D.), re-elected; Hon. Sec. Mr H. Cutts; and Hon. Treasurer, Mr S. Daniels.

Mr E.E. Dennis was unanimously appointed conductor. The Chairman and Mr W.J. May referred in eloquent terms to the efficient way in which Mr Dennis had carried out his duties. He had brought the Society to its present high state of efficienct, and they did not known [sic] what they would do without him. (Applause).

Mr W.J. May, the late Hon. Treas., was reluctantly compelled to resign that post and as stated above Mr H. Cutts was appointed to fill the vacancy. Mr Dennis moved a vote of thanks be accorded Mr May for his valued services during the past. (Applause).

He (Mr Dennis) also thanked the officers and members for the way in which they had carried out their duties. The members had given their local and regular support. He hoped that the splendid keenest that had prevailed amongst them would continue.

Thanks were also accorded Miss M. Macklin for her great help at the piano last season.

Thanks

Before the meeting closed Mr Dennis moved a hearty vote of thanks to their President, Dr Fell.

Their President had always taken a deep interest in the Society, and it was a great pleasure to have him at their head. He hoped that the great interest Dr Fell took in all matters relating to the Society would continue. (Applause).

24th December 1926 - Folk Dancing Party

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Folk Dancing Party

The Buntingford Branch of the English Folk Dancing Society has made rapid progress in folk dancing.

On the 9th inst. the Branch had a party at the George Room, when folk dancers from Walkern and Great Munden were also present.

There was a capital programme of these graceful and pretty dances that all enjoyed. Quite a feature of the evening were the special dances by Mrs G. Armstrong and Miss Olive Poulton.

Songs, interspersed with the dances, gave additional pleasure, and were contributed by the Rev. A.G. Langdon, Mrs Hull, and Mr E.E. Dennis.

24th December 1926 - Bowls Club

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Bowls Club

Successful Whist Drive

A whist drive, in aid of the funds of the Buntingford Bowls Club, was held at the George Assembly Rooms on Monday evening. There was a good company present, upwards of 70 sitting down to whist, which commenced at 7.30.

Mr E.E. Dennis officiated as M.C., and the successful players were:

Ladies - 1, Mrs Philpott, 189 (box chocolate); 2, Mrs Lawrence, 178 (jam dish); 3, Miss D. Camp, 170 (sugar sifter).

Gents - 1, Mr Hatchett (clock); 2, Mr C. Baker (rose bowl); 3, Mr G. Holmes (cigarettes).

Mrs W.J. May congratulated the winners and distributed the prizes.

Mr W.J. May, the Captain of the Club, thanked the company for their support. A vote of thanks to Mr Dennis was proposed by Mr F.W. Butler and carried with applause.

At the close, the result of the Xmas Ballot was announced by Mr Dennis.

7th January 1927 - Ex-service men entertain the children

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Ex-service men entertain the children

That nothing appeals to the heart more than a group of happy children was amply demonstrated on Monday evening, when the children of the members of the Buntingford British Legion Club were the guests at the annual party.

The arrangements for the treat were made by Mr H. Clarke (Sec. of the Club) and Mr E.C. Clarke (Hon. Sec. of the Buntingford Branch of the British Legion).

The room, with its attractive decorations was much admired. A great attraction was the huge Xmas Tree (given by Mr C.H. Poulton). The tree was heavily laden with toys and gifts selected by Mrs H. Clarke.

Some 50 children responded to the invitation to be present, and judging by the enthusiasm displayed this party exceeded all predecessors.

The whole party sat down to tea at 4.30, assistance at the tables being given by Mrs H. Clarke, Mrs E.C. Clarke, Mrs Starr, Mrs Warren, Mrs White, Mrs S. Smith, Mrs Scarborough Taylor and Miss Mayes.

Mrs Hall, the stewardess at the Club, also lent valuable assistance. Visitors included Captain and Mrs H.H. Williams, Mrs, Miss and Master C. Fell, Messrs G. Scarborough Taylor, E.C. Clarke, H. Clarke, E.J. Crane, E.E. Dennis, B.E. Thody, F. White, T. Pledger, A. Coxall, S. Daniels and W. Hall.

During tea Mr H. Clarke installed a powerful wireless set, and the music was much enjoyed.

Following tea, games and songs were indulged in until 7p.m. when the arrival of "Father Christmas" was the signal for three hearty cheers.

Mrs H.H. Williams then presented each child with a gift from the tree, and a National Savings' Card with two sixpenny stamps attached.

Mr H. Clarke called for cheers for the members of the Club and numerous friends who had made the treat possible.

Cheers were also given for the ladies, the New Year and Messrs. H. and E.C. Clarke. On leaving each child was given two oranges, a bag of sweets and a small gifts, and a thoroughly successful treat ended with the singing of God Save the King.

7th January 1927 - Notes of the Week

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Notes of the Week

The custom of giving treats is still maintained in Buntingford.

During the past week, two treats - one to the old folks and one to the young - gave untold pleasure.

On Saturday - New Year's Day - Mrs F.J. Robinson, with her customary kindness and thoughtfulness gave a sausage dinner to the inmates of the Poor Law Institution.

There was still a festive appearance about the place, the decorations for Xmas still adorning the large dining hall with its beautifully scrubbed floor. On spotless white table cloths, plates, knives and forks were laid ready for the annual sausage dinner.

Punctually at 1 p.m., the inamtes filed into the room, the women and children sitting at one table and the men at another. Large white enamelled pots of hot sausages and vegetables were carried in by attendants, and soon the inmates were enjoying a meal that is not on the official menu of the Institution.

Beer and minerals - a very generous helping too - were served during the meal, at the close of which the entire company stood up and drank to the health of Mrs Robinson.

The came the distribution of an ounce of tobacco to the men, who filled their pipes while one of the inmates sang a very old song about a "White Part-i-ridge." Another inmate, an old soldier, also sang, but it was difficult to catch words other than "The Ship that never returned." Most of the company seemed to know the chorus for they joined in heartily.

Then the women went back to their quarters and left the men to their pipes and "forty winks."

The other party was at the Ex-Service Men's Club on Monday last, where everything went jolly from 4 o'clock to 7.30.

A feature of the party seemed to be the excellent manner in which the children behaved. There was no snobishness as is sometimes seen when adults gather for tea and games, and but for one sturdy little fellow, who wanted Dad near him during tea, the entire company did justice to a very sumptuous tea.

After grace, led by Mr E.E. Dennis, had been sung, the long tables were cleared away, and community singing on a small scale started the evening's enjoyment. "This old man came rolling home" was taken up by everybody.

"Spinning the tray," "musical stick" (with Mr Dennis at the piano), "family coach" and "passing the pennies" were other games which all (including the adults) enjoyed.

The arrival of "Father Christmas" was the signal for more cheering, and the intimation that the gifts were about to be distributed from the huge Christmas tree.

Before toys were handed out, each child received a National Savings' Card bearing two sixpenny stamps - an excellent idea considering that last year's gift of a similar nature has led to a good deal of saving.

There was really an excellent assortment of toys &c., and a box of puzzles given to one little girl caused a good deal of perplexity amongst the grown-ups.

Before leaving, oranges, chocolate, weets and cakes were distributed, and one noticed that the National Anthem was sung none too lustily.

4th February 1927 - Buntingford & District Musical Society

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Buntingford & District Musical Society

Present "The Pied Piper of Hamelin"

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"Rats! They fought the dogs and killed the cats, And bit the babies in their cradles"

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On Wednesday evening of last week Buntingford and District Musical Society preseted Parry's "The Pied Piper of Hamelin" at the Benson Hall, Buntingford. This is one of the most difficult works the Society has yet dealt with, and their production is worthy of the highest praise.

There was a well-balanced orchestra, the members of which came from Hertford, Letchworth, and Hitchin, while the soloists were Mr Ralph Williams, L.R.A.M. (tenor) and Mr Rintoul Johnson (baritone). These two soloists were heard at their best, their style of singing being charming and arresting.

The story goes that after the Pied Piper had cleared the town of the rats the Mayor and Corporation tried to evade payment of the thousand guilders previously offered him, and then the Piper stepped into the street,

"And to his lips again, Laid his long pipe of smooth, straight cane, And out came the children running."

Then they were led away by the Pipe to a hill, in which a caverna was suddenly hollowed. And when they were all in the door in the mountain-side shut fast,

"And Piper and dancers were gone for ever."

Although the piece had been so effectively set to music by C. Hubert Parry, the words are, of course, by Robert Browning, and if it is one of the most difficult works the Society has touched it is remarkably short, lasting little more than half-an-hour.

It was therefore necessary to fill up the programme with other items, and Mr E.E. Dennis , the conductor to the Society, git on a novel idea when he introduced Community Singing into the programme. The second part of the programme was therefore taken up with Community Singing, and after a little instruction from the conductor, the whole audience were joining heartily in the singing of such well-known songs as "John Peel," "Pack up your troubles in your old kit bag," and "Tipperary."

"Buntingford's Burning" was a special favourite, with "Shenandoah" a close second.

Mr E.E. Dennis, who has worked so assiduously for the Society, conducted the whole programme. Mention must also be made of the valuable services rendered by the pianist, Miss Macklin; Mrs Fell, Mrs Butler and Mrs H. Feasey were in charge of the catering arrangements; while Messrs H. Clarke, F.W. Butler, E.C. Clarke, and E. Martin kindly acted as stewards.

4th February 1927 - Layston Annual Church Meeting

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Layston Annual Church Meeting

This meeting, which has been held annually in St Peter's in accordance with the Enabling Bill (1919), and which is open to all on the Electoral Roll, and which has in the past been very poorly attended, was this year made the occasion of a social gathering at "The George" Assembly Room on Wednesday night.

Over 60 responded to the invitation sent in the name of the Vicar and Churchwardens to every elector, and undoubtedly the number would have been considerably larger but for the prevailing influenza, from which many electors and their families are suffering, including several of the Parochial Church Councillors.

From 6.30 to 7.30 the business meeting of the year was held, enabling many of the first time to understand what lies behind the regular working and provision of the Church's services, which many look upon as a matter of course.

After the opening prayer, the Vicar welcomed those present, reminding them that it was at the suggestion of Mr Claud Fraser, who was really the "host" of the evening, that the meeting was taking its present form.

Mr Maughan, Hon. Sec. and Treasurer to the P.C.C., read the minutes, and then presented his financial report for the year, which, with additional help from an appeal to electors who did not regularly attend church, and a jumble sale, showed a balance of 6/9 on the right side.

The report of the Churchyard Committee was also read, and the Free-will Offering Fund was shown to have contributed £25 17s. 9d. during the year to the Parochial quota to the Diocesan Board of Finance, new subscribers being invited to join. Subscribers were asked to come and hear Canon Shorting, who is preaching on the subject at St Peter's on the evening of February 27th.

The financial report having been passed, the next business was the election of four representatives to the Ruri-Decanal Conference: Mrs Butler, Mrs Macklin, Mrs Howard and Mr C. Fraser; the election of Mr C. Fraser to represent Layston on the Diocesan Conference, and the election of the Parochial Church Council for the ensuring year, which resulted in last year's Council being re-elected en bloc.

Rev A. Howard then informed the electors of the urgent necessity of having the organ at St Peter's thoroughly cleaned for the first time in its life of 25 years, which would involved from £45 to £50, and asked for united effort to meet this need.

Mr Fraser emphasised another expense which would have to be met in the near future, namely, that involved in the proposed addition to the Churchyard. The ground had been given by the Vicar, but fencing, fees and other outlay would arise, but this would be a matter affecting the whole town.

The business meeting having been closed with prayers, the guests were served by the ladies of the P.C.C., in whose hands Mr Fraser had left this part of the entertainment, and others, with tea and refreshments, and a pleasant social time was spent, after which a programme of music and singing was greatly enjoyed, of which the programme is appended.

Every item was appreciated, and at the close very hearty thanks were given by the Vicar to all who had helped to make this new departure a thorough success.

Piano duet, Misses Macklin; song, "The Little Hero," Mr Henry May; part song, "The Gardener"; song, "My Hope," Miss Bartlett; Community Singing, Mr E.E. Dennis; Piano, Miss M. Macklin; song, "Orpheus with his Lute," Mrs Scarborough Taylor; part song, "Music when soft voices die"; song, "The Bonny Blue Kerchief," Mrs Armstrong; Community Singing, Mr E.E. Dennis; God Save the King.

4th March 1927 - Organ Recital at Congregational Church

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Organ Recital at Congregational Church

A Delightful Programme

Mr E.E. Dennis gave another of his organ recitals at the Congregational Church on Tuesday evening. There was a good gathering, and the programme was much enjoyed.

The soloist was Mr S. Daniels, who was at his best.

Mr Dennis chose for his recital the following:

"Spring Song." - Hollins

"Evening Song" - Gos-Cusstard

"Catherdral Music" - Wareing

"Barcarolle" - Hoffman

"Minuetto" - Guillmant

Variations on an air in F - Lemare

His "Evening Song" was beautifully played, as was the "Minuetto."

Mr Daniels' items were delightful. He chose "It is enough" (from Elijah), and "The trumpet shall sound" (from the Messiah). His accompanist, Mr E.E. Dennis, gave him every support.

Altogether it was an excellent programme.

15th April 1927 - Buntingford Musical Society

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Buntingford Musical Society

"Olivet to Calvary"

On Tuesday evening last, a large congregation gathered in St Peter's to hear the Cantata "Olivet to Calvary" (Maunder), rendered by the Buntingford Musical Society.

Mr E.E. Dennis, who presided at the organ, interpreted with skill and sympathy the theme of the Cantata, and which opens with the triumphant entry of our Lord into Jerusalem, following Him to the agony in the garden, the trial before Pilate, His condemnation, and finally the last scene at Calvary - and the choir responded to his leading, the result being, not a mere performance, but a deeply touch religious service.

Mr Daniels as baritone, and Mr Ralph Williams as tenor soloists, were greatly appreciated; also Mrs Hull, who took the soprano solo.

The first part closed with a very beautiful rendering of the hymn, "Just as I am," and the second paty with "Rock of Ages," in both of which the congregation joined heartily.

The service was opened with prayer by the Rev. A. Howard, and closed with the general Thanksgiving.

8th April 1927 - British Legion Annual General Meeting

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British Legion

Annual General Meeting

The Annual General Meeting of the Buntingford Branch of the British Legion was held at the Club Room on Thursday evening of last week. The chair was taken by the President (Captain H.H. Williams), who was supported by the Chairman of the branch (Mr G. Scarborough Taylor), Mr G.H. Maughan, and the hon. secretary and treasurer (Mr E.C. Clarke).

Mr H. Clarke was elected Chairman pro tem.

Mr F.W. Butler moved the re-election of Capt. H.H. Williams as President of the branch. They all knew the keen interest their President took in all matters related to Ex-service men. (Applause).

This was seconded by Mr H. Clarke and carried with acclamation.

Capt. Williams then took the chair. He said that although the branch may not have seemed to have done much during the past year it had carried out the work it had been asked to, and he hoped they would go on. As far as he (the Chairman) was concerned, he would do his best for the Ex-service men and for the Legion. (Applause).

The Chairman moved the re-election of Mr Scarborough Taylor as Chairman and Mr E.E. Dennis as Vice-Chairman.

Mr E.C. Clarke was re-elected secretary with Mr F.W. Butler as treasurer. The Committee was re-elected en bloc, with the addition of Mr A. Coxall. The Committee was also appointed to act as the Unity Relief Committee.

Mr E.C. Clarke presented his annual report. during the year five new members were admitted, bringing the total to 42. Business loans had been granted to two members, and several Ex-service men had received assistance from the Relief Fund, the total amount distributed being £24 7s. 2d.

The balance sheet showed total receipts £13 12. 5d. and expenditure £5 19s. 6d., leaving a balance in hand of £7 12s. 11. The Poppy Day receipts were reported as being £102 13s. 10d., which was considered very satisfactory.

Mr Scaborough Taylor, who said the accounts were in a very satisfactory condition, moved their adoption.

This was unanimously carried.

The Chairman said he regretted that out of 19 who received assistance from the Relief Fund only three were members; he hoped that all Ex-service men would realise that the membership was only 2 and a half pence per month. It was rather disappointing to find that men did not join the Legion after being helped.

The secretary stated that nominations were required for one member to attend the Whitsuntide Conference in London, and the name of the President was submitted.

Mr Scarborough Taylor brought up the question of games fixtures with neighbouring branches, and it was decided to challenge Barkway to a shooting match.

A sincere vote of thanks to the Secretary (Mr E.C. Clarke) for the able manner in which he had managed the branch during the year concluded the meeting.

20th May 1927 - Buntingford Choirs at the Hertfordshire Musical Festival

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Buntingford Choirs at the Hertfordshire Musical Festival

Certificates for Both Choirs

Although the Buntingford Choir did not retain the Silver Challenge Cup, won by them at the Herts. Musical Festival last year, they came close to winning another.

In many ways they had the fortunes of the day against them, nevertheless everyone enjoyed themselves - one of the chief things - and the certificates gained by both the children's and the adults' choirs show that Buntingford is not a great way behind.

Children's Day

Mr E.E. Dennis took the school choir on Friday, and the children enjoyed the delightful ride to the City of S. Albans, where the festival was held.

The children did their best, and were successful in tieing for second place.

In his remarks the adjudicator said the Buntingford choir sang the first three verses of the unison song beautifully, but dropped marks on the fourth verse.

The choir was awarded a certificate of merit.

Seniors' Day

Saturday was the day for the advanced choirs, and there was a record number of entrants.

The Buntingford choir lost the silver cup which they won last year, but obtained a certificate for sight-reading, in a class where they have generally failed before.

In the class for female voices they also did well - winning another certificate.

The Buntingford Women's Institute did not compete in the festival this year.

20th May 1927 - Charity Football Match

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Charity Football Match

As a result of the football match between Mr J. Holmes' XI and Mr E.E. Dennis's XI., the sum of £5 15s. has been equally divided between the Buntingford Nursing Fund and the Buntingford Horticultural Society.

The amount is very satisfactory, and best thanks are due to Mr Holmes and Mr Dennis for arranging the fixture.

20th May 1927 - Boys' Club

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Boys' Club

There must have been about 100 persons present at the Benson Hall on Wednesday evening last when the dance in aid of the Boys' Club provided over four hours of continuous enjoyment.

A number of invitations had been issued by Mr E.E. Dennis (who manages the Club during the winter months, and finds means of raising funds during the summer) and the response was more than expected.

The popular Standon orchestra provided a programme of up-to-date dance music, which was enjoyed by all present, and the duties of M.C. were undertaken by Mr Leslie Smith.