Westmill
Mothers' Union
There was a good average attendance at the Mothers' Union Meeting held at the Village Hall on Tuesday of last week.
The principal speaker was Miss May Chittenden, of Broxbourne, a lady who is always welcomed warmly. Her address was much appreciated, and the members endorsed a vote of thanks with hearty applause.
We are pleased to record that the Westmill Branch of the Mothers' Union has such a good membership, 43 now being on the books.
Children's Tea
The children attending the Salvation Army Sunday School, were entertained to tea at the Salvation Army Hall on Monday evening.
Following an excellent tea, games were organised by Captain Green and Lieut. Andrews, and a very happy evening was spent.
Rainfall for the week ending February 23rd, 1927
Feb - Inches
18 - .01
20 - .37
21 - .16
22 - .04
23 - .61
Total for week - 1.19
Adjourned Licensing Meeting
The adjourned annual licensing meeting was held at the Police Court on Friday last, the magistrates present being Sir Charles Heaton-Ellis (in the chair), Mrs Dimsdale and Mr Claud Fraser.
An application for the full transfer of the licence of the "Brown Bear" Public House, Braughing, from Wm. Denton to Mrs Helen Denton was granted, Inspector Herbert stating that the previous licensee had died, and that the police had no objection to the transfer to Mrs Denton.
Buntingford Independent Foresters' Friendly Society
Annual Meeting
The annual meeting of the members of the Buntingford Independent Foresters' Friendly Society was held at the Society's Hall on Monday evening.
The Chief Ranger, Bro. J.B. Cutts, presided, other members of the Court present being: Brother E. Saunders (Sub-Chief Ranger), Bro. E. Bolton (Senior Woodward), Bro. A. Coxall (Junior Woodward), Bro. D. Wallis (Senior Beadle), Bro. W. Budd (Junior Beadle), and Bro. B.E. Thody (Assistant Secretary).
The Court was opened with the usual formalities, after which the Assistant Secretary stated that the sickness benefit paid during the past month amounted to £21 3s. 10d., and funeral benefit £14.
Applications were received for assistance from the Subsidiary Benefit Fund, and these were favourably considered by the Court.
Balance Sheet
The Secretary submitted the books and accounts of the society for the year ending 31st December 1926.
On the sickness fund there was a balance of £2554 5s. to the good. The amount paid in sickness benefit during the year was £269 4s. 4d.
The funeral fund showed a satisfactory balance of £1209 15s. 1d. In the subsidiary benefit fund there was a balance of £118 15s. 2d.
Members had been assisted from this fund during the year, and the Society had also made the usual donations of £2 2s. to the Hertford County Hospital and the Buntingford Nursing Fund.
The management and medical expenses amounted to £71 19s. 4d., the receipts being £90 11s. 8d., leaving a balance in hand of £18 12s. 4d.
The statement of funds, which totals £3901 7s. 7d., was shown as follows: War Loan £3205 5s., Hertfordshire Housing Bonds £100, Freehold Property £100. Post Office Savings' Bank £462 6s. 4d. Cash in hand at end of the year £23 16s. 3d. There was a membership of over 200.
The Chairman said he thought the accounts were entirely satisfactory; the Society was on a sound financial footing, and the various funds each showed an increase on the previous year's workings.
The Sub-Chief Ranger then proposed, and Bro. E. Bolton seconded, that the accounts be submitted to the Auditors.
The whole of the Officers were re-elected en-bloc and thanked for their past services.
The minutes of the meeting were then read, and the Court formally closed by the Chief Ranger.
It is pleasing to record that the Society, which commenced its activities as far back as 1874, is in such a satisfactory position, and it is hoped that many young men who are not members, will come forward and join in its activities.
The Secretary, who is Mr Ernest G. Thody, has held that office since 1896.
----
[Note from Alison - The amount of total funds available is equivalent to approximately £225,000 in today's money.]
Football
Aspenden v. Hertford Athletic
Aspenden were at home to the Athletic on Saturday last, this was the return game of a fortnight before which Aspenden won, so they Athletic brought a strong team, and fully deserved the point they gained.
In the first-half the visitors did the majority of the attacking, and only the excellent play of the home defence kept them from scoring more than once, this was from a penaty for hands, which gave them the lead at the interval.
The second-half was more evenly contested, and after a quarter of an hour's play, Aspenden equalized from a well-placed corner that S. Dowler headed through.
The visitors were then awarded another penalty, but the home goalie saved well from the spot kick. Shortly afterwards Aspenden took the lead, when a shot fell in the goalmouth which enabled H. Parker to score at close range.
The Athletic then played with renewed energy, and from a fine movement easily scored.
This was followed by midfield play, and no further scoring.
Result - Aspenden 2 - Hertford Athletic 2.
Football
North Herts Benevolent Shield
The Town Beaten After Extra Time
Thorogood's Fine Defence
Two goalkeepers, Farey of Pirton, and Reed, of Buntingford, both dressed in green sweaters and black shorts, faced each other for two hours on the Hitchen Imps ground on Saturday last, and because Reed had to fetch the ball out of the net on four occasions, Pirton carried away the beautiful Shield which they came so close to winning on Boxing Day.
It must be said that Reed was in no way to blame for the four goals scored against him; he put up and excellent game throughout.
The Teams
Under Mr Winters, of Hitchin, the teams lined up as follows:
Buntingford - Reed; Hatchett, Thorogood; Holmes, Howlett, Rayment; E. Moule, Birkett, H. Clark, E. Pledger, H. May.
Pirton - Farey; Cherry, Baines; Warren, Crawley, Goldsmith; Chamberlain, Price, Gotto, Davies, Titmuss.
When the writer of these notes arrived, the game was some ten minutes old, and Pirton was pressing strongly.
When Thorogood or Hatchett were not being called upon to clear, Reed was jumping up at well directed shots, and looked as if Pirton would score at any minute, indeed, one shot hit under the crossbar, and although many near-by spectators alleged that the ball was over the line the referee disallowed the point the 'Fords made tracks for the other goal, where Birkett shot by the post.
Continuing to press, Pirton found the net, but the referee ruled that two of their men were off-side, and once again the town supporters drew a breath of relief.
Something like third minutes elapsed before the bustling Pirton forwards began to tire, and it was then that the town team took up the attack, and Pirton realised that the 'Fords were really dangerous, and from combined play by the town's right wing, MOULE opened the scoring with a low cross-shot.
Much encouraged, the town played with more confidence, and although Pirton continued to break away on the right wing, their attacks were generally beaten down by Rayment or Thorogood. On one occasion Titmuss got in a shot which scraped the bar, with Reed unsighted.
Birkett and Holmes were often in the wars, and at one time both were off the field. It was during their absence that Reed was called upon a good deal, and he saved a stinging shot from Chamberlain, which completely deceived Thorogood.
Before half-time the town added to their score through BIRKETT, who, after a fine piece of work, banged the ball past Farey from close quarters.
Half time - Buntingford 2 - Pirton 0.
On resuming, it was evident that Pirton had made up their minds to have a good try at making good, and they set off an attack which resulted in Hatchett having to use some of his best tactics.
Two or three corners were forced, and when these were taken from the right wing, they were always a source of danger to Buntingford.
Pirton's distribution of the ball became good and lusty, long passes began to tell their tale. The left wing was continually putting over accurate centres, and time and again Thorogood was called upon to clear: not once did he miskick.
It was CHAMBERLAIN who received a pass from Price and banged the ball past Reed, and after several more attempts the same player scored again a few minutes from time. This resulted in extra time being played.
Each side put their best into the last half-hour, but the Buntingford forwards were erratic in their shooting, and the strain of extra time began to tell.
Following a melee TITMUSS put Pirton ahead. Just before time, CHAMBERLAIN completed the hat trick, the final score being-
Pirton 4 - Buntingford 2.
As stated, Reed, Hatchett and Thorogood put up a good defence. In the half-back line, Howlett played finely throughout, and gave his forwards a lot of assistance. Rayment was speedy and clever, but Holmes, after his injury was not often in the picture.
Moule and E. Pledger were the pick of the fowards, although the latter was not so accurated with his shots as he generally is. In control Clark did quite well, but he tired before the final whistle. Birkett showed his average skill, but it was only at times that he was able to get going as he was covered by the ever-watchful Crawley.
H. May was terribly slow, certainly he did not receive the passes he should have done in the first-half, but this should have made him more eager for the remainder of the game. Some of his long kicks were beautifully placed, but he had anything but a red-letter day.
Shield Presentation
Mr W.P. Flint, in presenting the Shield to the winning team, said the two teams had played an excellent game - clean and sportsmanlike. They were all there that afternoon to swell the funds of the North Herts Benevolent Fund.
Pirton was among the first to join, and won the Shield in the season 1923-1924. Buntingford joined two years ago, and had been in the final twice; all honour to them. (Applause).
On Boxing Day last year, Buntingford, after being two down, pulled through and became the winner of the Shield. Two great games.
Mr Flint then handed the Shield to the Captain of the Pirton team, and medals to the two teams.
There was a large crowd present, many travelling from Buntingford by charabanc.
S. Howlett, with his usual sporting spirit, called for three cheers for the winners.
In presenting a medal to Thorogood, Mr Flint said, "A wonderful display at the back, Sir."
Now for the Greg Cup competition!
Debating Society
Owing to illness, there was a smaller attendance than usual at the meeting of the Buntingford and District Agricultural Debating and Discussion Society.
The subject for discussion was "Seed mixtures" and the improvement of arable land."
The speaker, Mr H.R. Williams, illustrated his remarks with charts of 1, 2 and 4 year leys.
A discussion followed and questions answered by the lecturer.
Correspondence
To the Editor, Buntingford Gazette
Dear Sir,
Through the medium of the Buntingford Gazette, I wish to thank all those who so kindly helped to make the Buntingford Nursing Fund whist drive and dance such a success, either by the gift of prizes, money towards expenses, cakes and other refreshments, and last but not least, to those who gave personal service special thanks are due, and to the Band and Mr Bishop who kindly relieved them.
I am pleased to tell you I have handed £8 8s. to the Treasurer as the result, after all expenses have been paid.
I much regretted the absence, through illness, of about 12 regular patrons, wishing them a speedy recovery.
Believe me, yours truly,
G. Lushington.
Absesdene, February 27th, 1927.
To the Editor, Buntingford Gazette
Dear Sir,
In connection with the advertisement about the "pictures" in the Benson Hall, will you kindly allow me to say that the Management will not be able to continue the Saturday night performances unless there is a full house regularly.
Personally I am not very anxious (and never have been anxious) to have the Hall used as a Cinema, but am quite willing if there is a real demand for pictures in Buntingford.
The pictures shown are of excellent quality and full of interest, so those who wish to have the Cinema open in Buntingford are invited to show that wish by regular patronage.
Yours faithfully,
A.N. Morgan
23rd Feb., 1927.
Lantern Lecture
On Tuesday evening, Mr J.W. Harvey again visited the Congregational Schoolroom and gave another of his lantern lectures. The titles of earlier such lectures have been "Christie's old organ," "Poor old Joe," "Strike while the iron is hot." The one this week was entitled "Uncle Tom's Cabin."
It was shown to two large gatherings; first to the young folks and then to adults, and the lecture and story was very much appreciated by all present.
Mr Harvey and Mr M. Smith operated the slides, and the Minister read the story.
At both meetings a very entertaining hour was spent, and appreciation shown in the usual manner. A collection was taken at each gathering for the funds of the Colportage Association, and the Benediction and Doxology concluded the meetings.
The hymns sung were "O God, our help in ages past," and "Count your blessings."
Congregational Church
Sunday School Prize-Giving
On Thursday, February 17th, a very happy evening was spent in the Congregational Schoolroom, the occasion being the annual Prize Distribution in connection with the Sunday School.
Early in the evening the scholars assembled for games and refreshments, and teachers and scholars enjoyed a social hour-and-a-half.
Parents and friends of the scholars having joined the company, the Minister proceeded at once to distribute a number of book prizes gained by scholars for regular attendance during the past year.
After the distribution, he urged the young people to win not only book prizes, but also the greatest prize - Jesus Christ.
A lengthy programme was next carried through, consisting of a number of miscellaneous items:
Songs (by Miss Blanche Langham, Miss Dorothy Howard); pianoforte solos (Miss Langham, Miss Kathleen Smith); dialogue (Miss Dorothy Saunders, Miss Minnie Ashton); recitations (Miss Winning Conyard, Miss Dorothy Saunders, Miss Gertrude Howard, Miss Minnie Ashton, Miss Freda Howard, the Minister); whilst other contributors to the programme were Mrs G. Saggers (humourous readings) and Mr B.E. Thody.
During an interval a collection was taken for the Sunday School, and the scholars joined in the singing of a number of hymns from their School Hymnary.
The Benediction and Doxology concluded a very enjoyable evening.
Situations Vacant
Between-maid for Baldock, 2 in family; £20 to £28. Write, Miss Brown, 136 Tenison Road, Cambridge.
Wanted, at once, for 2 or 3 weeks, a temporary House-parlourmaid. Apply, Mrs Deacon, Knights Hill, Buntingford.
Women's Institute
On the 9th inst., the monthly meeting of the Buntingford Women's Institute was held at the Assembly Room, the George Hotel.
The president, Mrs H.C. Marshall, presided, and considering the prevalence of influenza, there was a good company present.
The feature of the meeting was an address on Women Police by a lady from London. Her address was listened to very attentively, and at the close she was accorded a very enthusiastic vote of thanks on the proposition of the Chairman.
A competition for ginger biscuits was won by Mrs Squires.
Tea, served by Mrs Squires and Mrs Dellow, brought the afternoon's proceedings to a close.
Whist
Organised by the Buntingford Town Silver Band, a successful whist drive was held at the Assembly Room, the George Hotel, on Saturday evening last.
Mr T. Wornham was M.C., and prizes were won by the following:
Ladies - 1 Mr A. Postle, 2 Mr H. Handy (both playing as lady).
Gents - 1 Mr E. Hurry, 2 Mr S. Saunders.
A spot dance competition was won by Miss Cook and Mr Ivan Sharp.
Buntingford Nursing Fund
Whist Drive and Dance
Miss Lushington and her willing helpers are to be heartily congratulated upon the complete success of her annual whist drive and dance held on Wednesday evening in the Benson Hall.
There was a large gathering, especially for the dancing.
The evening commenced with a whist drive, prizes for which had been kindly given by Lady Heaton-Ellis, Mrs H.C. Marshall, Mrs H.H. Williams, Mrs Mevett, Mrs Wyman, Miss Lushington, Dr and Mrs R.W. Fell, and Rev. A.L. Panchaud.
Twenty-five tables were occupied, and the prizes were presented by Miss Lushington to the following:
Ladies - 1, Mrs A. Clark (biscuit barrel); 2, Miss W. Walsingham (half tea service); 3, Mrs Wallis (tea cosy); lowest score - Mrs Geaves.
Gents - 1, Mr H. Hatchett (mirror); 2, Mr Coxall (shaving mirror); 3, Mr Mannox (pictures); lowest score - Mr Bishop.
A lucky chair prize went to Mrs Bennett, and the lucky ticket prize to Mr J. Bishop.
The Buntingford Town Band was in attendance, and dancing was indulged in until midnight, the excellent programme being enjoyed to the full.
Mr A.C. Bartlett for whist, and Mr L. Smith for dancing, were the two efficient M.C's.
Sandon
Funeral of Mr George Taylor
Amid evidences of great regret, the funeral of Mr George Taylor, whose death was announced in this Paper last week, as a result of appendicitis, took place on Monday afternoon.
The remains had been previously brought from Hertford to White Hall, and were conveyed in a plain oak coffin inscribed -
George Taylor, Died 9th February, 1927, Aged 28 years.
There was a large congregation, and as the cortege entered the Church the organist played appropriate music, and the service, which was conducted by the Vicar, the Rev. W.P. Farmer, was most impressive. Two hymns were sung "On the Resurrection Morning" and "Now the Labourer's Task is O'er."
The immediate mourners were - Mr and Mrs A. Taylor (father and mother), Mrs Jackson (sister), Mr N. Taylor (brother), Miss B. and Miss M. Taylor (sisters), Mr George Taylor and Mr George Deamer (uncles), Mr and Mrs A.W. Page (uncle and aunt), and employees of the farm.
Others present were - Mrs N. Cannon, Messrs. H.E. Dudley, F.B. Cannon, L. Cannon, G. Graves, C. Rand, T. Wornham, Henry May, R. Kingsley, C. Stick, and Miss Turney.
There were many beautiful wreaths suitably inscribed.
Home League
At the last meeting of the Home League, held at the Salvation Army Hall, the following members were given suitable presents in recognition of their services for the League: Mrs Parker, Mrs Miles, Mrs Hills, and Miss L. Plumb.
The presentations were made by Capt. Green who, in the course of a few well-chosen words, expressed thanks on behalf of the donors for the work carried out.
The recipients of the gifts suitably replied.
Death of Mrs R. Nelson
The death of Mrs Rebecca Nelson, at the advanced age of 86, took place at "The Angel " Inn on Thursday last.
The deceased, who had been living in Buntingford with her daughter, Mrs W. Hale, for about a year, was one of the oldest inhabitants of Blankney, Lincs., where she was well-known and greatly respected. She was a cheerful old lady, and one who had a kind word for everyone.
The funeral took place at Layston Church on Wednesday afternoon, when a number of townspeople were present.
The service was conducted by the Vicar, the Rev. A. Howard, and the immediate mourners were:
Mr and Mrs W. Hale (son-in-law and daughter), Miss Counsell and Mr Barnett.
The deceased was a widow, her husband having died about a year ago.
Births, Marriages and Deaths
Death
Nelson - On February 10th, at "The Angel" Inn, Buntingford, Rebecca Nelson, aged 86 years.
Mr and Mrs Taylor and Family wish to return thanks for the many expressions of sympathy received in their great bereavement; also for the beautiful flowers sent.
Mrs A.T. Stapley wishes to thank all those who have sent messages of sympathy in her recent bereavement.