26th Feb 1926 - Westmill Women's Institute

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Westmill

Women's Institute

The February meeting of the Westmill Women's Institute was held at the Village Hall on Wednesday evening.

The President (Mrs G. Coutts-Deacon) presided, and there was a good attendance. After the formal business of the meeting, Miss Boniwell gave an interesting demonstration on "Upholstery."

Demonstrating with a chair, Miss Boniwell showed how the seat was built up and covered. The lecture was listened to very attentively, and at the close several questions were asked and answered, and the President proposed a very hearty vote of thanks to Miss Boniwell for her demonstration.

26th Feb 1926 - Buntingford Conservative Associaton

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Buntingford Conservative Associaton

Annual Meeting

The annual meeting of the Buntingford Branch of the Hitchen Conservative and Liberal Unionist Association was held at the George Hotel on Thursday evening last.

The chair was taken by Mr Claud Fraser. There was a small attendance of members, the business being of a formal nature only.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman said the members would be glad to hear that Major Kindersley had recovered his health, and that he would be visiting Buntingford on March 26th.

Election of Officers

Capt H.H. Williams moved that Mr Claud Fraser be re-elected Chairman of the branch. They all knew the interest their Chairman took in the Association as a whole. (Applause).

Mr Scarborough Taylor seconded the resolution, which was carried with applause.

The Chairman thanked the meeting for re-appointing him, and said he would always do his best for the cause.

The following were elected to serve on the Central Council: Dr R.W. Fell, Messrs. W. Steel, C.H. Poulton, A.W. Page, A. MacArthur and W Houlden.

The Chairman and Captain H.H. Williams were elected to serve on the General Executive.

The committee elected were as follows: Dr R.W. Fell, Messrs. F.B. Sharp, J. Pateman, E.J. Crane, C.H. Poulton, E. Camp, E.E. Dennis, E. Denson, T.Kingsley, J. Camp, W. Manning, H. Thody, W. May, W. Houlden, and G. Scarborough Taylor.

Mr B.E. Thody was nominated Secretary.

Other Business

Capt H.H. Williams spoke on the newly-formed scheme for raising subscriptions, and Mr Scarborough Taylor asked whether monthly lectures could be arranged. 

The committee were asked to meet and discuss this question.

The Secretary was also instructed to obtain membership cards.

[Transcriber note: "Major Kindersley" was Guy Kindersley, Conservative MP for Hitchen]

26th Feb 1926 - Layston Church Sunday School

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Layston Church Sunday School

Annual Prize-giving

The annual prize-giving to the Layston Church Sunday School scholars took place at the George Hotel on Friday evening last.

There was a crowded audience, which consisted of scholars, parents and friends. The Vicar, the Rev. A. Howard presided, and handed the prize books to the boys and girls. He also referred to the good work of the teachers.

After this, Mr B.E. Thody gave a lantern lecture which was much enjoyed by all. The subjects were - A visit to the Zoo, Fairy tales, British wild birds and their nest, and views of Winchester. Several local slides, lent the Rev A. Howard and Mr Thody, were very interesting.

At the close, the Vicar proposed a vote of thanks to the lecturer and also to Mrs Alexander Dixon who was present and gave each child an orange.

The very happy evening concluded with the National Anthem.

26th Feb 1926 - Death of Mr B. Stoten

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Death of Mr B. Stoten

It is with regret that we record the death of Mr Bertie Stoten, the only son of Mrs W. and the late Mr W. Stoten, formerly of Buntingford.

The deceased, who had been ill for some time, passed away at his home at New Malden on Wednesday morning at the age of 21. Prior to his illness, he was an electrical engineer.

His father, whose death was reported in this paper in July, 1924, was for many years gardener at Throcking Rectory. He was buried at Aspenden Churchyard, and it is understood that the arrangements may be made to bring the remains of his son to Aspenden.

The old friends of Mrs and Miss Stoten will extend their deep sympathy to them in their sad bereavement.

26th Feb 1926 - Social at the Congregational Church

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Social at the Congregational Church

On Thursday, February 18th, in the Congregational Church Schoolroom, a very enjoyable evening was spent, the occasion being a Church Social. The schoolroom had been tastefully decorated by Mr Herbert Cutts, and presented a very pleasing appearance.

The evening commenced with a general conversazione. Then followed various musical items, &c., Miss Dorothy Howard (solo, "All Alone"); Miss Kathleen Smith (pianoforte, "Birds of Paradise," &c.); Miss Kitty Camp (pianoforte), Miss Alice Franklin (recitation, "The Key to the Situation"). 

A number of competitors took part in a previously prepared piece of unpunctuated prose. This caused great amusement, the audience being informed, e.g., that wine could be made with glycerine, special trains would be run updside down. In this competition, Mr Leonard Skipp, of Cottered, made the least number of mistakes.

Miss Emily Benstead followed with a monologue, "The Lost Golosh." She took her part well (finding in the end that this lost piece of footwear was residing serenely inside the other golosh). All these items were enthusiastically applauded.

Two sketches followed, one entitled "The Neighbours of Gooseberry Court" by Mr and Mrs Skipper ("Mrs Dobbs" and "Mrs Perkins" respectively) and Miss Gladys Mean ("Miss Amelia Copper") of the Cottered Congregational Church; and the second, entitled "Uncle Joseph" by Mr Herbert Cutts ("Mr Samuel Smith"), Miss Emily Benstead ("Mrs Selena Smith"), Mr C.L. Tutty ("Mr Dick Saunders"), Miss Edith Careless ("Miss Kitty Smith"), Mr Harry Feasey ("Mr Joe Tubb" and "Uncle Joseph," a myth), and Miss Kitty Camp ("Jane").

The artistes in both instances are to be congratulated on their excellent performance, while the amusement and merriment that accompanied their various experiences and adventures before the curtain was drawn must have been sufficient reward for all the preparation and care which they had given.

There was an interval between the two sketches for two items in which everyone took part. The members of the Ladies' Committee assisted by willing helpers, waited on the company with trays of tea, coffee and cakes, which many friends had, with their usual generosity, kindly contributed; and a collection was taken on behalf of the funds of the Church.

At the close the Minister thanked all who in any way (by gifts, time or services) had assisted towards the evening's pleasure.

The Doxology brought the evening to a close.

26th Feb 1926 - Boys' Club

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Boys' Club

A whist drive and dance, in aid of the funds of the Buntingford Boys' Club, was held at the George Hotel on Tuesday evening in last week.

There were 14 tables in use for whist, and Mr E.E. Dennis carried out the duties of M.C. The prize winners were: Ladies - 1 Mrs W. Jackson (biscuit barrel), 2 Mrs Smith (jam dish), 3 Mrs Hummerstone (jam dish). Gents - 1 Mr Mannox (clock), 2 Mr A. Mayes (tobacco pouch and pipe), 3 Mr A. Coxall (cut-glass bowl).

Following the whist, dancing was indulged in until midnight, Mr E.E. Dennis acting as accompanish and Mr J. Wall as M.C.

26th Feb 1926 - National Institute for the Blind

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National Institute for the Blind

Successful Whist Drive at the Benson Hall

A successful whist drive, in aid of the funds of the above institution, was held at the Benson Hall on Wednesday evening.

Twenty tables were occupied, and Mr H. Clarke kindly acted as M.C. The scoring was fairly high, and four ladies had to cut for prizes.

Mrs Stapley and Miss I. Aylott both scored 180, and winning the cut Mrs Stapley took first prize - a case of tea knives, Miss Aylott being second with a cake knife. Mrs Corp and Miss Mean both scored 176, and on the cut Miss Mean took third prize - a fancy jam dish.

For the gents prizes Mr F.C. Nash was first with a score of 180 - prize, a clock. Mr T. Pledger, who was second, chose a cigarette tray and matchbox; and Mr H. Clark, with a score of 175, was third - prize, a leather purse and wallet.

Father Morgan kindly presented a pack of cards for the player with the highest score at the first-half, and this prize was won by Mr A. Coxall.

Mrs H. Clarke distributed the prizes.

At the close, Mr B.E. Thody, who organised the drive, returned thanks to Mr Clarke and the helpers.

19th Feb 1926 - Women's Constitutional Association

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Women's Constitutional Association

An Excellent Meeting

What the Vote has done for Women

There was a crowded meeting of members and friends of the Buntingford and District Women's Constitutional Association held at the Assembly Room, the George Hotel, on Wednesday afternoon.

The President (Mrs H.H. Williams) presided, and was supported by Mrs G. Coutts-Deacon (Hon. Treas.) and Mrs Holman.

The President introduced Mrs Holman, who gave a most interesting address on "What the vote has done for women." In a well-prepared address, the speaker alluded to the fact that since the beginning of time women took a wonderful part in the life of the world. Christ himself put woman on a level with man, and many of his best friends were women. Referring to more recent years, the speaker said that some of the queens of England had done as much for our country as the kings.

Mrs Holman dealt at some length with the League of Nations and the excellent work carried out for the cause by Lord Robert Cecil. Dealing with the suffrage movement, the speaker said it was about 1906 when women began to think about the vote, and after the long years of the great war, when women did so much for their country, they were given a say in matters of state.

Instead of being just a political thing, the vote was one of the greatest milestones in the history of woman. For the first time they were real citizens of their country. It was a great milestone on the journey through the ages towards better conditions, and it was the duty of all women to use the vote right, and to carry on and go further and further until they felt they were doing their very best for their homes and country. Some men had said when the women were allowed a vote "You have it for all we care. It has not done us much good." The speaker hoped that women had not looked upon the vote in that light.It was a great thing to have a say in the affairs of state and to be able to help in the share of the country's work.

Several other points of interest were ably dealt with, and at the close Mrs Holman was accorded very hearty applause.

After tea, which was served to nearly 100 present, songs were rendered by Mrs Scarborough Taylor, and songs and recitations by Mrs G. Coutts-Deacon.

Both were heartily applauded and thanked for adding to the success of the meeting, which concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.

19th Feb 1926 - Women's Institute Monthly Meeting

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Women's Institute

Monthly Meeting

The monthly meeting of the Buntingford Women's Institute was held at the George Hotel on Wednesday of last week. The President (Mrs H.C. Marshall) presided, and there was a good attendance of members.

Miss Ouless gave an interesting address on Village Dramatic Societies. The lecturer referred to Shakespearian plays, and dealth especially with Shakespeare's "As you like it."

Tea was served by Mrs Dellow and Mrs Squires, and the hostesses were able to hand over the sum of 10/7 to the funds.

The first competition of the year drew over 20 entries. The prize for the best cake, made from a given recipe, was divided between Mrs E.G. Thody and Mrs J. Crane. The next best cakes were those made by Mrs Houlden, Mrs Warner, Mrs Darton.

19th Feb 1926 - Church Sunday School

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Church Sunday School

The Sunday School Sunday was observed on Sunday last at St Peter's. In the morning the children occupied a prominent place. Children's hymns were sung, and the sermon by the Vicar, on Ephesians vi. 1-4, "Children, obey your parents in the Lord. Fathers...bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord," was such as the children could not fail to understand.

In the afternoon a service was held, when the parents were largely represented. The Prize-giving will be held today (Friday) at "The George" Assembly Room at 7, to which all parents and friends of the children are warmly invited. Mr B. Thody is kindly giving a lantern entertainment after the prizes have been given.

Lent services will be held throughout Lent on Thursday evenings (for the most part) at 7. The preachers on February 25th will be the Rev. A.G. King.

19th Feb 1926 - Parochial Church Council

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Parochial Church Council

The Parochial Church Council met on Monday last at Mrs A. Dixon's house for the revision of the Electoral Roll, in preparation for the Annual Church Meeting on March 15th. 

New names may be added up to March 1st. Electors, by their vote at the Annual Church Meeting, elect the Church Council for the ensuing year, and have an opportunity of sharing in Church government.

19th Feb 1926 - Annual Sale of Work

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Annual Sale of Work

The annual sale for Home and Foreign Missions was held in the Parish Room on Thursday in last week. 

The C.M.S. stall was presided over by Mrs Dixon and Miss Fry; that for the C.P.A by Mrs Fell, Mrs Howard and Mrs Wyman; Mrs White, Miss B. White, Miss M Feasey and Miss Howard sold sweets and old books; while Mrs Ambrose, Mrs Sayer and Miss Cutts had charge of the tea tables, provisions for which had been kindly given.

There was a good attendance, several friends from neighbouring parishes showed their kind interest. The of £10 was raised - £6 for C.M.S. and £4 for C.P.A.

19th Feb 1926 - Help the Hospitals

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Help the Hospitals

Last night a further meeting was held at the Presbytery of the "Help the Hospitals" Committee, who are organising a giant Whist Drive and Dance on Wednesday, April 14th, in aid of the Hertford and Royston Hospitals. 

Representatives of the various Clubs and Societies in the district were present with the exception of Mrs Fell (Women's Institute), Mr Clarke (British Legion), and Mr Dennis (Boys' Club), who sent apologies for unavoidable absence.

It was decided that the price of tickets for the Whist Drive and Dance should be 2/- each, with a ten shillings "lucky" prize for the bought on or before Monday, April 12th. The winner of the lucky ticket need not necessarily be present in order to win the lucky prize.

Nine valuable prizes will be awarded at the Whist Drive, besides the lucky ticket prize.

The interest already taken by the public in this event is an augury of a record attendance.

19th Feb 1926 - Buckland measles epidemic

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Buckland

There are still several cases of measles in the village and several adults are affected.

It has been decided to keep the school closed for a further period.

19th Feb 1926 - Buntingford Bowls Club

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Buntingford Bowls Club

Annual General Meeting

PROPOSED NEW GREEN

The annual general meeting of the members of the Buntingford Bowls Club was held at the George Hotel on Thursday evening in last week. Mr G. Scarborough Taylor presided, and was supported by the Captain (Mr W.J. May) and the Hon. Sec. and Treas. (Mr J.L. Cornwell).

After the minutes of the last general meeting had been read and confirmed, the Chairman read a letter from Mr H.C. Marshall (the President of the Club), who said he regretted being unable to be present that evening.

REPORTS

Mr J.L. Cornwell read his annual report. During the past season the club had played 34 matches, and had entered for the various competitions in the East Herts. Bowls League. In this League they had scored 767 points against their opponents 606.

Mr W.J. May and Mr J. Lawrence had kindly presented gold and silver medals for a club competition, which was most successful. The Captain's Cup had not been won outright, as owing to bad weather the competition was not finished.

The finances of the club were satisfactory; on last year's workings there was a small adverse balance of 1/5, which had been defrayed that evening. (Applause).

The Chairman said he considered the report and accounts very satisfactory. In passing, he would like to add that the annual dinner, at which he had the pleasure of being present, was a most successful affair; he was sure everyone present spent a very happy evening.

The accounts and report were then passed, on the proposition of the Chairman, seconded by Mr F.B. Sharp.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS

Mr W.J. May moved the re-election of the President (Mr H.C. Marshall). Mr Marshall was a true sport and was always willing to do his utmost for the club. He (Mr May) hoped that their president would find pleasure in supporting the ancient game of Bowls (applause)

This was seconded by Mr F.W. Butler and carried.

Mr J. Lawrence moved the re-election of the Vice-Presidents en bloc with the addition of Mr George Aston and Mr Chapman-Wood. The club was very grateful to the Vice-Presidents for their support and interest.

Mr E.J. Totman seconded.

Mr C.H. Poulton replied on behalf of the Vice-Presidents, and said he was pleased the club was going successfully.

Mr W.J. May, who has been Captain for three seasons, proposed that Mr F.W. Butler be asked to be Captain for 1926.

Mr Butler moved an amendment that Mr May be re-appointed, and this being seconded by Mr J. Lawrence was carried unanimously. The Chairman said he was pleased Mr May had reconsidered the matter. He was a man of keenness and enthusiasm, coupled with tact.

Mr F.W. Butler was unanimously appointed Vice-Captain on the proposition of Mr E.J. Totman, seconded by Mr Cornwell.

Mr Cornwell then intimated that he was no longer able to carry out the duties of Hon. Sec. and Treasurer. Mr Butler then proposed that Mr J. Lawrence be appointed. In moving this, he (Mr Butler) would like to say that the members were very grateful to Mr Cornwell for the way he had carried out the combined duties (Applause).

Mr Lawrence agreed to take over the post, and said he would do his best.

The general committee elected were as follows: Messrs W.J. May, F.W. Butler, J. Lawrence, E.J. Totman, J. Pateman, J. Boniwell, E. Birkett, F. Crouch, J.L. Cornwell, and H. Clarke.

The green committee elected were - Messrs F.W. Butler, E. Brett, J.L. Cornwell, W.J. May, E.J. Totman, and J. Lawrence.

Selection committee - The Capt. and Vice-Captain, and Messrs E.J. Totman, J. Lawrence, J. Boniwell, and F.B. Sharp.

OTHER BUSINESS

It was decided to enter the East Herts. Bowls League and the Rinks and Pairs Competitions.

The Captain said the question of a new green was on the agenda. As a matter of fact the new green did not exist, but the [sic] hoped something could be done to get a longer green than the one they had at present. When the club visited other clubs in the League, they had to play on full dized greens, and it was some time before the Buntingford players could get accustomed to the length. Mrs Ashford had kindly offered the club another site, and if the members agree a small committee might be formed to go in to the question of cost, &c. 

Various suggestions were put forward, and it was eventually decided to appoint a small sub-committee to discuss the matter and report later. The committee appointed were Messrs. G. Scarborough Taylor, W.J. May, F.W. Butler, C.H. Poulton, E.J. Totman and J. Lawrence.

THANKS

A vote of thanks to the chairman for presiding brought the meeting to a close.