18th January 1924 - Wyddiall - An Enjoyable Concert

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[Transcriber note: To save everyone's eyes I've turned the collections of names at the end into bullet pointed lists]

Wyddiall

An Enjoyable Concert

The concert given in the schoolroom on Tuesday last attracted a crowded audience, that spent a delightful time.

Mr H. May was the chief organiser, and Mr R. May presided at the piano.

No charge was made for admission, but during the interval a collection was made in aid of the Men's Club, the satisfactory sum of 30s. being collected.

At the close Mr H. Pigg congratulated the artistes on the excellent programme, and called for three cheers, which were heartily given.

On behalf of the performers, Mr H. May thanked the audience for their support, and the liberal way they had subscribed to the Club funds.

The programme was as follows:

Part 1 -

• Pianoforte Solo, Mr R. May;
• song, "Maryland," Mr B. Hatchett;
• song, "Mary Ann and Jack," Mr H. Money;
• duet, "Barbara Allen," Misses N. Hatchett and R. Marshall;
• recitation, "From the wreck," Mr E. Searle;
• song, "Passing by," Mr W. May;
• song, "The old armchair," Mr W. Searle;
• dialogue, Messrs B. Hatchett and E. Martin;
• song, "I passed by your window," N. Hatchett, Miss L. Pledger and R. Marshall;
• song, "Whispering," Mr H. Pledger;
• song, "I shall have to ask my mother if she'll let me," Mr C. Hatchett;
• song, "That old fashioned mother," Miss L. Pledger;
• song, "God send you back to me," Mr W. Watson.

Part 2 -

• Song, "Annie Laurie," Mrs W. Mead;
• song, "Light of her life went out," Mr H. Money;
• song, "Bubbles," E. Bonfield, R. Reed and C. Hatchett;
• song, "Bells of St Mary's," Mr H. Pledger;
• duet, "The old rustic bridge," Miss N. and Mr B. Hatchett;
• recitation, "A great fit," Mr E. Searle;
• song, "My meatless day," Mr C. Hatchett;
• song, "Mate of mine," Mr W. May;
• song, "Poor ole' Joe," Mr W. Searle;
• reading, "Our village," Mr J. Searle;
• song, "Touch the harp gently," Mr W. Watson;
• song, "Amazon," Mr B. Hatchett;
• "Auld Lang Syne," concert party.

21st December 1928 - Buckland Women's Institute Annual Meeting

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W.I. Annual Meeting

The annual meeting of the Buckland Women's Institute was held in the School on Wednesday in last week, when the President (Miss N. Pigg) was in the chair.

Following the singing of the National Anthem and the reading of the minutes, Mrs C.R. Turney, of Mardley Bury, gave an excellent talk on the co-operative spirit which is essential for the working of every Institute.

Mrs Turney afterwards gave a papier machie [sic] demonstration, and all members heartily endorsed a vote of thanks accorded her at the conclusion.

The affairs of the Institute were afterwards dealt with, the President introducing this business by her annual speech. The report of the secretary and the treasurer's balance sheet were also submitted, their adoption being duly proposed, seconded and carried.

The balance sheet showed a satisfactory balance in hand of about £10. The thanking of the officers for their past services caused much fun, each being individually thanked by members.

During tea, voting took place for the officers and Committee for the ensuing year, the result of the election being:

Secretary, Miss Gilby; President, Miss N. Pigg; Vice-Preisdent, Miss P. Morris; Committee: Mrs F. Pigg (Barkway), Miss F. Pigg, Miss G. Pigg, Mrs J. Carter, Mrs H. Carter, Miss N. Carter, Mrs R. Stoten, Mrs J. White, Mrs C. Jackson, Mrs J. Hurry, Miss R. Beale (Royston) and Miss M. Gilby.

A small jumble sale was held during the evening, following which games were indulged in. Songs were contributed by Miss P. Morris.

The prize for the best Christmas gift for 1/6 was awarded to Mrs Chris Whitby, of Reed, for raffia tea cosy and egg cosies. The singing of Auld Lang Syne brought a pleasant evening to a close.

21st December 1928 - Buckland Whist Drive and Dance

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Buckland

Whist Drive and Dance

A whist drive and dance was held in the School on Friday, December 14, in aid of a children's treat. The attendance was small, no doubt owing to the very sharp frost.

The winners of prizes for whist were as follows:

Ladies - 1 Mrs R. Tott, 2 Mr F. Stoten (playing as lady);

Gents: 1 Mr E. Bruce, 2 Mr F. Stoten; booby, Miss N. Carter.

The prizes were presented by Miss F. Pigg. Fancy dress for the dance was optional, and prizes were offered for this. Miss F. Pigg and Miss P. Morris kindly judged the competitors.

The adult's prize was tken by Mrs Dommett, as Father Christmas, who caused much amusement.

The children's prizes were gained as follows: 1 Frances Cole (Ace of Hearts), 2 Joan Dommett (Early Victorian Lady), 3 Daisy Clayton (Knight).

A large iced cake was competed for, the winner being Mr Hudgell, of the Mavis Dance Band.

Excellent refreshments were served by members of the W.I. Committee, and the Mavis Dance Band played splendidly. A jolly evening ended with the National Anthem.

The teachers wish to thank all those who contributed in any way to the evening's enjoyment.

6th August 1926 - Buntingford Horticultural Society

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Buntingford Horticultural Society

Annual Show

The Buntingford Flower Show was held in Corney Bury Park yesterday (Thursday) and was a pronounced success.

The quality of the exhibits were exceptionally fine, and we believe the number of entries constituted a record for the Society.

For the first time since 1914, the Buntingford Horticultural Society staged its Annual Show entirely on its own.

Since 1920, the Society has held its shows in conjunction with the Agricultural Society, but as this Society held its Show at Hertford this year, the Horticultural Society reverted to is old date in August.

All roads led to Corney Bury Park, where, by kind permission of Mr W.J. Wedd, the show was staged. It is estimated that there were quite 3,000-4,000 people present.

The show as a whole was a distinct advance on last year, and approximated to the old-time shows which made Buntingford famous for its flower shows. The entries totalled just over 762. The quality of the exhibits was also of a fine standard.

The trade exhibits were very fine, the displays of roses by Messrs. Chaplin's (Waltham Cross), Messrs. Harkness (Hitchin), Mr J. Pigg (Royston) and Mr C. Bolton (Wyddiall) being exceptionally fine. Mr H.A. Thody had a fine show of fruit.

Other Attractions

The Buntingford Town Silver Band, under Mr E. Smith, were present, and their selections during the day were greatly enjoyed.

Among the various other attractions was a demonstration with live bees by Mr Herrod-Hempstall, F.E.S., expert to the Ministry of Agriculture, and entertainments, side-shows, &c.

In the evening dancing to the band took place. At dusk a magnificent firework display was given by Messrs. J. Wells, of London. W. Thurston's up-to-date amusements were well patronised.

The Management

An immense amount of organising work had been put in by the Hon. Secretary, Mr E.G. Thody, and by the General Committee.

Mr Thody has held the post of Secretary and Joint Secretary for 40 years and his experience and worth is beyond computation. In addition he was a most successful exhibitor.

The Officers were:

President - H.C. Marshall, Esq.

Committee - Messrs. A.C. Bartlett, C. Bolton, G. Budd, H. Clarke, J. Cornwell, E. Crane, J. Dean, E.E. Dennis, T. Dibbin, H. Fry, W.G. Jones, J. May, H. Money, T. Rolfe, G. Scarborough Taylor, F. Sharp, W. Nichols, B.E. Thody, J. Totman, C. Walters, T. Hummerstone, W. Watkins, B. Rustead, and A. Warner.

17th September 1926 - Rural District Council

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Rural District Council

Captain H.H. Williams presided at the meeting of the Council which followed. Dr R.A. Dunn (M.O.H.) and the Surveyor (Mr E.G. Thody) were also present.

Vote of Condolence

The Chairman said he felt he must endorse the remarks which Mr Hummerstone had made with reference to the late Mr Edward Pigg.

Everyone must feel that men with such a high sense of public spirit were very rare, and the death of Mr Pigg was indeed a great loss.

Surveyor's Report

The Surveyor reported as follows:

Isolation Hospital

No cases of infectious disease have been notified, and the hospital remains closed.

Waterworks

The consumption of water during the past month has been:

1st week - 246,000 gallons

2nd week - 257,000 gallons

3rd week - 240,000 gallons

4th week - 258,000 gallons

The rest level has fallen and now stands at 37ft, being 1ft. lower that [sic] at September last.

Little Hormead Drainage

I have again interviewed Mr Patten with reference to the proposed drainage, and he is willing that the drain take the line shewn upon the accompanying plan.

Housing

Mr T. Pugh, of Ardeley, submits plans for the erection of a bungalow at Ardeley. The plans are in order.

Coal Emergency

Since submitting my last report, increased supplies have reached the merchants, which together with a quantity that I have been able to secure, has been sufficient to meet current needs.

Sandon

Samples of water from properties at Sandon have been sent for analysis, and the owners should be called upon to provide an efficiant and wholesome supply.

Estimates

The Clerk presented the estimates for the half-year ending 31st March, 1927.

The expenses were estimated at £1,675, and after deducting receipts, £813 was required. This was a decrease of £93 compared with the corresponding period last year.

Special Expenses

£139 was required for Special Expenses, which was a decrease of £82 compared with corresponding period of last year.

Tenders for Scavenging

Mr C.H. Poulton submitted a tender for Scavenging, 12/- per day. This was considered very reasonable and was accepted.

The other business was of a formal nature.

17th September 1926 - Death of Mr Edward Pigg

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Buckland

Death of Mr Edward Pigg

It is with much regret that we record the death of Mr Edward Pigg, of Buckland, Buntingford, a well-known Alderman of the County of Hertford, and a man admired by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Mr Pigg had been in failing health for nearly a year, and recently he had been seriously ill. He passed away on Monday morning last at his residence at Buckland.

Mr Pigg, who was born at Barkway, belonged to an old agricultural family. He farmed Chipping Hall Farm for many years, and was one of the best known breeders of Shire Horses in the County, his collection of silver cups, &c., being very fine.

He was appointed a Justice of the Peace for Herts in 1902. A staunch Conservative, he was a generous supporter of the cause, and took a particular interest in the Buntingford Branch of the Hitchin Conservative Association.

He was elected a Guardian of the Buntingford Union, and a member of the Buntingford Rural District Council in 1890, and held the chairmanship for some time. He was also chairman of the Ashwell Board of Guardians and a member of the Ashwell Rural District Council.

Besides County matters, he took a deep interest in all affairs connected with his village. He was a particularly good farmer and his men had great affection for him; his own quiet enthusiasm working wonders among them.

His wife, three daughters, and three sons survive him, and much sympathy is felt for them and other relatives in their great loss.

The funeral will take place at Barkway Church today (Friday), a report of which will appear in our next issue.

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Transcribers note: A copy of the following weeks paper does not appear to have been saved.

17th September 1926 - Buntingford Board of Guardians

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Buntingford Board of Guardians

Tributes To The Late Mr Edward Pigg

The monthly meeting of the above board was held at the Board Room yesterday (Thursday).

Present - Mr C. Hummerstone (in the chair), Mrs Dimsdale, the Rev. L.W. Wright, Capt. H.H. Williams, Messrs. H.C. Marshall, A.W. Page, A.J. Hayes, W.J. May, G.C. Wilson, with the Clerk (Mr E.C. Clarke), the Master (Mr F.W. Butler) and the Relieving Officer (Mr H.H. Macklin).

The Late Mr Edward Pigg

The Chairman said that before proceeding with the business of the meeting he had to refer with deep regret to the passing of one, who for many years was an active and honoured member of the Buntingford Board of Guardians.

Mr Edward Pigg was Chairman of the Board up to the time of his retirement, and his unfailing kindness and courtesy to all would be long remembered. He (the Chairman) felt sure it would be the wish of the Board that the Clerk convey to Mrs Pigg and family the deepest symapthy of the Board in their sad bereavement.

The motion was carried in silence.

Master's Report

The Master reported as follows:

Number of inmates - men 17, women 16, children 2. Total 35.

Number admitted to Casual Wards during past week - men 24.

During the month gifts of books have been received from Mr Leake, Sunny Hill, Buntingford, and Mrs Laird, Coles Hill, Westmill.

During the past month 89 casuals have been admitted, against 19 last year.

---

The House Committee reported as follows:

The House Committee visited the House today, and found all in order, the contract work was completed and was very satisfactory.

We recommended the sale of old iron by the Master, we also recommend that the two children now in the house be sent to the National Children's Home.

Signed - G.C. Wilson, L.W. Wright.

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The Board decided to send the two children to the National Children's Home. The Chairman said he understood the thanks of the Board had been conveyed to the donors of the gifts to the inmates. The Board were very grateful for their kindness.

Half-Yearly Estimates

The Clerk presented the half-yearly estimates for the period ending 31st March 1927.

The estimated receipts were £2,093 and expenditure £5,880.

£4,387 was required to ensure a working balance which was a decrease od £180 compared with the corresponding period last year.

The Chairman said he thought the figures were very satisfactory, and the Clerk added that it represented a decease in the rates of 2d. in the £ as compared with the corresponding period of last year.

In reply to a question from the Chairman, the Clerk stated that there was a number of calls still outstanding, and approximately £600 was due from one parish alone.

Tenders

Tenders for the supply of goods to the Institution were opened, and the following accepted:

Groceries - Messrs. Forrest Stores.

Meat - Messrs. W.G. Clark, Ware.

Coffins - Mr G. Saggers.

Haircutting and shaving - Mr C. Miles.

Milk - Mr C.H. Poulton, 1/4 per gallon.

There was no tender for bread, and the matter was left over.

Rating and Valuation Act

Capt. H.H. Williams gave a very lucid explanation of the amended scheme for the constitution of assessment areas under the New Act.

He said it was previously arranged that Buntingford should amalgamate with Royston and Ashwell, but as the county was to be divided into seven areas instead of 12 it was proposed to amalgamate Buntingford with Bishops Stortford, Sawbridgeworth, and Hadham.

Under the old scheme there were 15 representatives appointed, Buntingford having three representatives from the Council and two from the Guardians. The new scheme provided for 20 representatives and allowed the Buntingford Union one representative only, but the Council's representation of three remained unaltered.

The Chairman said they were very grateful to Capt. Williams for attending the meeting in London and for his explanation of the new scheme. He (the Chairman) thought it would be appropriate if the Board appointed their representatives forthwith.

The following were appointed:

Mr C. Hummerstone (representing the Board of Guardians); Captain H.H. Williams, Mr G.C. Wilson and Mr F.B. Cannon (representing the Rural District Council).

Relief

Several cases of relief were dealt with, and instructions given to the Relieving Officer.

Other Business

The remaining business was of a formal nature.

15th October 1926 - Board of Guardians Monthly Meeting

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Board of Guardians

Monthly Meeting

The monthly meeting of the Buntingford Board of Guardians was held on Thursday (yesterday).

Present: Mr C. Hummerstone (in the chair), Mrs Dimsdale, Capt. E.T. Morris, Capt. H.H. Williams, The Rev. L.W. Wright, Messrs G. Graves, A.J. Hayes, G.C. Wilson, H.E. Dudley, T.J. Stick, with the Clerk (Mr E.C. Clarke), the Master (Mr F.W. Butler) and the Relieving Officer (Mr H.H. Macklin).

House Committee

The following report was submitted.

The House Committee visited the House today, the work of distempering the male casual ward has been completed, and the condition of the building is very satisfactory.

The committee have no suggests to make involving further expenditure.

Katherine J. Dimsdale, Harold H. Williams, G.C. Wilson.

Master's Report

The Master reported as follows:

Number of inmates - men 15, women 15, children 2. Total 32.

Number admitted to casual wards 16.

Corresponding figures for last year - men 20, women 16, children 2. Total 38.

Tramps 2.

Two females, aged 70 and 92 respectively, have been admitted during the month.

A committee of the Hertford Guardians paid a visit on September 5th, and left a report in the visitors book.

Gifts

The following gifts have been received and much appreciated by the inmates.

Cheque £2 - Hertford Guardians.

Eggs - Salvation Army.

Papers - Mrs Dixon

Fruit and vegetables - Westmill Harvest Thanksgiving per Rev. A.G. King.

Fruit, vegetables and eggs - Meesden Harvest Thanksgiving per Rev. W. McKerr

Grapes and fruit - Layston Harvest Thanksgiving, per Mrs Howard

Daily Mail for past year - Mrs Anderson

Weekly Mail for Blind - Mr H.C. Marshall

Books and magazines - British Red Cross Library

Mrs L.M. Baker brought her pupils and sang Harvest Hymns in the sick wards and distributed tea, eggs, fruit &c.

Casuals

During the past month 78 have been relieved, against 13 last year.

Labour Master

Mr R. Budd, the labour master, has been appointed porter at Luton. Would the Board kindly give Mr Budd a testimonial.

The Chairman said it was pleasing to note the number of gifts received during the month. The Board were very grateful to the donors and especially to Miss Baker and her pupils for giving the aged inmates a share in the thanksgiving of Harvest.

It was decided to give Mr Budd a testimonial and the Chairman was authorised to sign it.

Fire Protection

The Minimax Co. reported that the fire extinguishers at the Institution had been recently inspected and found to be in order.

Books

Mrs Dimsdale stated that the Hormead School Library Committee had several books which they would be pleased to hand over to the Guardians for the use of the inmates of the Institution.

The Chairman said he thought the books would be very acceptable, and no doubt the Master could put up some shelves.

Captain Williams and the Rev. Wright expressed their thanks to Mrs Dimsdale for the offer.

The Late Mr E. Pigg

The Clerk read a letter from the family of the late Mr Edward Pigg expressing their thanks for the expression of sympathy passed at the last Board meeting and for the wreath sent.

Hertford Boarders

A letter was read from the Hetford Union authorising the continuance of relief to persons resident in the Buntingford Union and relieved on behalf of the Hertford Union, for a further period of 14 weeks.

Visitors

The following remarks were entered in the House Committee register by visitors from the Hertford House Committee:

"We visited the Institution and found the inmates most comfortable and happy.

The Master and Matron are particularly patient and kind to all. The Box girls are greatly improved. With regard to the Dimsdale Charity, any surplus money might be used on 'bus rides or little outings in any way the Matron and Master think best."

24th December 1926 - Buckland Women's Institute

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Buckland

Women's Institute

The monthly meeting was held in the school on December 8th.

Besides the ordinary Women's Institute business, the treasurer and secretary put their annual reports before the members, both being passed with hearty applause.

Voting for the 1927 Committee was carried out, and Mrs C.R. Turney (always a welcome visitor) with Mrs Kingsley kindly acted as tellers. Miss N. Pigg and Mrs Morris were again re-elected president and vice-president respectively.

Miss Coleman needed no introduction, having been to this Institute before, and her subject, "Icing a cake," proved very interesting, and Mrs Hill moved a vote of thanks to her on behalf of those present.

Two competitions, "Best bowl in papier mache," "Best darned sock," were won by Miss N. Carter and Mrs F. Pigg.

Miss G. Pigg, Mrs Mildren, Mrs F. Pigg, Mrs Stoton sen., Mrs Shepherd and Miss P. Malyon were hostesses for tea.

Recitations were given by Mrs Morris, Miss P. Morris, and Miss G. Gilby, with songs from Mrs Stoton and Mrs C. Jackson were much appreciated.

3rd December 1926 - Local Wills

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Local Wills

Will of the late Mr Edward Pigg - Mr Edward Pigg (82), farmer, of Buckland, who died recently, left £32,100, with net personalty £25,316.

Will of the late Sir James Cantlie - The following extract, relating to the Will of the late Sir James Cantlie of Cottered, was taken from a London Daily Paper - Net personalty nil. Gross value £721.

28th January 1927 - Buckland Concert

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Buckland

Concert

On Friday, January 14th, in the School, a concert organised by the Rev. Phillips and Miss N. Pigg was a huge success, the amount taken, with the sale of programmes, being £9.

This amount is to be handed over to the Clothing Clubs &c., and the Nursing Fund. The room was crowded, quite a few having to stand.

A long and varied programme was arranged, and it would indeed be very difficult to pick out any item for particular mention, the piano solos, recitations, songs, violin solos, dance and ventriloquial performances being of the highest character.

Pretty and dainty indeed was the song and dance, "The red, red robin," by Mrs Armstrong, Mrs Scarborough Taylor, Mrs Edridge, Mrs Lanyon and Rev. Circuit gave songs, which were heartily encored, and by allowing the audience to join in the choruses it was a very happy time for all.

Mr Symes' violin solos were greatly appreciated. This gentleman, like Mr Daniels (ventriloquist) was not hitherto known to a Buckland audience. The latter gentleman caused roars of laughter, especially by making reference to the village Women's Institute and its choir.

Miss Hall's recitations were beautifully and feelingly rendered, and the play by Mrs Bailey and Mrs Seymour was very amusing and well played.

The Rev. F.B. Phillips thanked the audience for coming in such a number, whilst Miss N. Pigg passed a hearty vote of thanks to the performers.

A 6d. dance followed, from which the sum of £1 17s. 0d. was realised, and this is to be used for paying the expenses of the above.

A very enjoyable time for both young and old was brought to a close at 12.30 a.m.

Mr Bishop was at the piano for dancing.

21st January 1927 - The Rearing and Fattening of Farm Stock

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Buntingford & District Agricultural Debating and Discussion Society

The Rearing and Fattening of Farm Stock

The rearing and fattening of farm stock was the subject of the second of a series of lectures and debates organised by the above Society.

The meeting was held at the Assembly Room, "The George" Hotel, on Tuesday 11th, Capt. E.T. Morris presiding.

The Chairman introduced the principal speaker - Mr J.W. Reid, and Mr H.W. Gardener, both of Oaklands.

Mr Reid gave a very interesting and comprehensive talk on the fattening of beasts, laying great stress on the importance of feeding regularly. Cleanliness of utensils and a dry warm bed, were other points strongly urged. Calves required for dairy work should not be forcibly fed, but kept growing.

The speaker then dealt with the various methods of feeding and fattening, and said that monotony of feeding should, in all cases be avoided. One of the greatest dangers in pig feeding was leaving unconsumed food in the troughs; the food was liable to ferment, and in addition it was very wasteful.

Mr H.W. Gardener then addressed the meeting, and illustrated his remarks by tabulated forms. He specially emphasised that during the early life of a beast the carcass contained mostly water, therefore during this period less expensive foods were needed. He then dealt with the various foodstuffs and their relative values, and supplied the meeting some most interesting data. One of his points was that when a beast reached from 7 to 8 cwt., the water in it decreases and the fat makes a jump.

A discussion followed in which Messrs Kittow, H. May, E. Pigg, W. Morris, S. Pigg and G. Scarborough Taylor took part. Many useful questions were asked and points thrashed out, especially as to the best kind of floor for animals of all kinds. Concrete was urged providing there was sufficient bedding; rammed chalk was also commended.

Before the conclusion of the meeting, a hearty vote of thanks was accorded the Chairman and the speakers, and it was announced that the next meeting would be held on 1st February.

The Committee also made arrangements for a debate in March, the subject of which is "The inter-relationship between Producer, Distributor and Consumer."

25th March 1927 - Buntingford & District Agricultural Debating and Discussion Society

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Buntingford & District Agricultural Debating and Discussion Society

The last meeting of the 1926-27 season of the above Society took place at the Assembly Room, the George Hotel, on Tuesday evening.

The chair was taken by Mr A. Macarthur, who introduced the principal speaker (Mr J.W. Reid, of Oaklands).

The subject down for discussion was "The business side of Farming," and, as the speaker said, it was one for wide consideration.

In farming it was often necessary to lose on one branch in order to gain on another. Sheep farming, he said, often failed as a business proposition, but its value in manuring the land could not be reckoned in £ s d.

In many cases economies could be effected in labour, it had been proved that the average proportion of labour to the expenditure of a farm was 28 per cent, and while to try and effect economy in labour would mean disaster in many cases, it had been found that quite a number of farms were under-staffed.

Economy in horse labour could often be effected. There was also the question of economy in manures by purchasing the right kind. It had been found that 12,000 acres in Hertfordshire were deficient in lime. Economy in feeding stuffs should also be practised.

The speaker then dealt with the question of increased receipts, and dealt with such matters as dairy farming, poultry and store cattle.

Mr Macarthur, Mr Scarborough Taylor and Mr S. Pigg took part in the discussion which followed, and at the close Mr Macarthur, in moving a vote of thanks to Mr Reid, said he wished, on behalf of the Society, to thanks Mr Hunter-Smith for the help he had given them. He regretted that some of the meetings had been poorly attended, and he hoped that if the Society carried on next year they would have an increased membership.

Mr S. Pigg seconded the vote of thanks, and Mr J. Laird, in supporting the vote, said he thought there were many who did not realise what Oaklands was doing for them.

The vote was carried with acclamation.

Mr J.W. Reid and Mr J. Hunter-Smith replied, and said that if it was decided to carry on next year they would be pleased to help.

22nd April 1927 - Anstey - The Late Mr James Cowlin Pigg

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Anstey

The Late Mr James Cowlin Pigg

Impressive Scenes at Church and Graveside

It is with sincere regret and sympathy with the bereaved relatives we record the decease of Mr James Cowlin Pigg, of Anstey Hall.

The deceased, who had been ill for some considerable time, passed away in a London nursing home on Wednesday of last week. His death, at the age of 41 years has brought great sorrow, not only to the parish but to the whole district.

The deceased's father, the late Mr J. Pigg, farmed the 700 acre Hall Farm for over 30 years, and at his death some six years ago, the villagers were happy to think that his son, "Jimmy," was to remain with them and farm the land his father had left. "Jimmy" as he was known to all, was a man of whom no one spoke ill. A good farmer and a very generous employer, he was loved by all who came into contact with him. The most marked characteristic of him was his love of fair play and fair dealings. He was also a lover of sport and was considered an excellent shot.

Prior to the Great War he joined the Herts Yeomanry, but at the outbreak of war he expressed a wish to go abroad and was transferred to the R.G.A. and saw a good deal of fighting in Palestine. 

Ater the war he returned to Anstey, where he took an interest in all local affairs. A staunch Conservative, he was an enthusiastic supporter of the cause. He was also a member of the Buntingford Board of Guardians and Rural District Council.

The deceased was only married some two years ago.

The Funeral

The popularity of the deceased over a wide area was testified to by the large number who assembled for the funeral on Monday afternoon last. The interior of the Church was bright with Easter flowers, many of them having grown in the woods on the Hall farm. The full choir was present, and the service was conducted by the Rector, the Rev. F.R. Williams, assisted by the Rural Deal (The Rev. W. McKerr), and The Rev W.L. Shepherd (Hormead). The hymn song was "Peace, perfect peace."

The coffin was plain oak, and was borne from the Hall by eight of the deceased's employees. The interment took place in a flower-lined grave at the east end of the churchyard, being only separated from the Hall garden by a yard entrance to the Hall.

The immediate mourners were: Mrs J.C. Pigg (widow), Mr H.F. Pigg (cousin), Miss Pigg and Miss G. Pigg (sisters), Mr and Mrs L. Duke (brother-in-law and sister), Mrs Seabrook and Mrs Baker (aunts), Mr and Mrs E. Pigg, jun. (cousins), Mr and Mrs F. Pigg, and Mr T. Coleman.

Among others present were - Mrs Wyman, Mrs Dimsdale, Miss F. Pigg, Miss N. Pigg, Mrs Oyler, Miss Beale, Miss N. Ashford, Mrs Monk-Jones, Miss Lyall, Mrs C.R. Turney, Mrs White, Mrs H.F. Pigg, Mrs Turney, Miss Coleman, The Rev. L.W. Wright, Rev. Morton, Mr and Mrs S. Pigg, Mr and Mrs W.T. Patten, Mr and Mrs F.B. Cannon, Mr and Mrs W. Johnson, Mr and Mrs J.F. Lofts (Stortford), Mr H. Clarke (representing the Buntingford Ex-Service Men's Club) and Mrs Clarke, Mr and Mrs Hammond (Ware), Captain E.T. Morris, Dr H.E. Dixon, Messrs. T. May, H. Fry, J.R. Russell, J. Russell, G. Scarborough Taylor, P. Hamilton, E. Mildren, R. Gardener, F. Brown, W. George, W. Millbank, F. Sapsed, W.J. Sapsed, F. Prime, Andrew Weir, C. Bolton, C. Johnson, H. May, F. Rand (Kelshall), A.W. Page, S. Lees, Harry May, J. May, H.R. Stubbing, A. Macarthur, V. Pledger, C. Burr, W. Burr, F. Dibbin (representing the local branch of the Conservative Association), Herbert Ward, G. Andrews, S. Hoy, W.J. May, J.S. Baker, T.J. Stick, H.E. Dudley, Jack Pigg, J. Woollard, B. Kent, S.A. Rice, H. Mole, C.P. Mole, C. Chapman (Standon), John Coleman, and Messrs. F.W. Butler, E.G. Thody, and H.H. Macklin (officers of the Buntingford Guardians and R.D.C.)

There was also a large number of villagers and employees present.

15th April 1927 - Buckland Women's Institute

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Buckland

Women's Institute

On Wednesday, April 6th, the monthly meeting was held in the School at 6.30 p.m. This was arranged and very successfully carried through by members, the 1927 committee having a complete rest.

Mrs S. Pigg took the chair as President, Mrs F. Pigg was Vice-President, Mrs T. Pigg Secretary, and with the help of other members they are to be congratulated on such a successful and happy meeting.

Rather a lengthy business programme was gone through, and then Mrs Whiteside, of Barkway, gave a very interesting demonstration on sealing wax work.

The vote of thanks passed to this lady was very heartily carried.

Tea was a very pleasant time. The refreshments had been given by members, and thus the three-pences charged were clear profit, and these, with the pennies taken from those who would neither sing nor say, amounted to 15/9, which went to the Outing Fund.

Much fun was derived from the "Roll Call," as also from a play by four members, Mrs Young, Mrs Jarman, Mrs Tott and Miss M. Gilby, entitled "The Jumble Sale." It was well acted, and it is to be hoped will spur members on to thus entertain each other.

After a set of Musical Chairs, and Miss N. Pigg's congratulations on this well arranged meeting, the singing of God save the King brought another pleasent time to a close.

27th May 1927 - Nursing Association

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Nursing Association

The Committee of this beneficient Association have just issued their thirtieth annual report and balance sheet. Both will be perused with general interest.

The Committee acknowledge the generosity of the subscribers and their kindly thoughts in providing, in so many different ways, such substantial assistance to the funds of the Association, and beg to thank sincerely, "The Bunties" for their talented entertainment; Miss Lushington for another successful whist drive; all those who managed and collected on flag day; to the Foresters,' Mr Fry, and those who took collecting boxes; to Miss Pigg for her concert; to Mr Hedges for the time and skill he gives to the motorcycle; to Mr Jeff Smith for finding the accommodation for it; and to Mr E.C. Clarke for auditing the accounts.

There is also a reference in the report to the death of Mrs Elliott, who for many years helped and supported the Association.

The report refers to the popularity of Nurse Davies and Nurse Tunwell, whose excellent work and kind attention has been a boon to the patients and a satisfaction to the Committee. Nurse Davies paid 2,480 visits during the year, and Nurse Tunwell 1,379.

The balance sheet, including a balance in hand at the beginning of the year, shows total receipts £341 14s. 5d., and a credit balance of £20 2s. 9d. 

The chief items on the receipt side are: Subscriptions £78 18s. 6d., donations £68 7s. 11d., collections in Churches £8 18s. 9d., collecting boxes £3 4s., cottage monthly subscriptions £15 2s. 1d., maternity fees £25 7s., health and maternity grants £18 15s. 6d., contributions from Cottered £41 12s. 9d., from Rushden £18 8s. 8d., and from Westmill £28 2s. 7d.

Thanks from the town and district is accorded to the Committee and district representatives for their valuable services, and sincere gratitude is accorded Mrs Alex Dixon, the Chairman and Hon. Sec. Her devoted services for many years have been invaluable to the wellbeing of the Association.

3rd June 1927 - Buntingford Rural District Council

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Buntingford Rural District Council

Monthly Meeting

The monthly meeting of the Buntingford Rural District Council was held at the Board Room on Thursday in last week.

Present: Capt. H.H. Williams (in the chair), Messrs. C. Hummerstone, F.B. Cannon, H.C. Marshall, Claud Fraser, H.E. Dudley, E. Bygrave, F. Prime, A.W. Page, G. Graves, A.J. Hayes, G.C. Wilson, T.J. Stick and W.J. May, with the Clerk (Mr E.C. Clarke), the Medical Officer of Health (Dr R.A. Dunn), and the Surveyor (Mr E.G. Thody).

Surveyor's Report

The Surveyor reported that the Isolation Hospital remained closed.

The consumption of water for the past month has been 1,075,000 gallons.

The Surveyor also reported that Mr C. Reed, of Cottered, had submitted plans for a proposed bungalow to be erected by him at Cottered. The plans were in order.

There was also a report on the water supply at Wakeley cottages, the Surveyor reporting that they reservoir needed repairing and adequate means taken to ensure protection of the water from pollution.

Cottered Drainage

The Surveyor reported that he had again inspected the site adjoining the Cottered cesspool, and he suggested that a small Sub-Committee be appointed to view it.

The Chairman, Mr H.E. Dudley and Mr T.J. Stick arranged to meet on the site on Saturday.

The Clerk stated that the Anstey Parish Meeting had submitted the name of Mr Herbert S. Ward, of Bandons, Anstey, as a candidate to fill the vacancy on the Board caused through the death of Mr James C. Pigg.

Bye-Laws

Copies of the proposed Bye-laws which had been drafted by a Sub-Committee of the Council were submitted to the members.

The Chairman said that two of the members of that Sub-Committee were strongly in favour of the adoption of bye-laws, but one wished to reserve his judgment. If, however, the Council decided to adopt hte bue-laws, that member was of the opinion that those drafted would be most suitable.

In commenting on the drafts submitted, Captain Williams said the intention of the Council was not to draft anything in the way of interfering laws, but he thought that it was a mark of progress that they should have something that would be a guide to the people.

Mr G.C. Wilson moved a vote of thanks to the Sub-Committee for the way in which they had gone into the matter.

It was decided to adjourn the matter for a period of four months.

A further letter was read from Mr Chapman, of London Road, Buntingford, with reference to his application for a subsidy in respect of the bungalow recently erected by him. The Clerk stated that the letter had been sent to the Council by the Ministry of Health, and he had replied to the Ministry, and furnished them with all particulars of the case. The matter was left over until the Ministry has dealth with the Clerk's letter.

Dr R.A. Dunn submitted his annual report of vital and general statistics, an observation of which appears in another column. In answer to a question by the Chairman, Dr Dunn said that cancer is distinctly a disease of old age.

The Council confirmed the appointment of the 2 rating officers to carry out the work in connection with the Registration of Electors' Lists and the preparationg of the Juror Lists.

Mr F.B. Cannon urged that the Council draw the attention of the County Council to the dangerous corner near the Sandon turning at Chipping Bridge. Several accidents had occurred there, and there had been a smash up on the corner that morning.

It was resolved to write the County Council on the matter.

----

At the meeting of the Guardians, Mr H.C. Marshall suggested that the Board approach the North Metropolitan Electric Light Co. with a view to obtaining an estimate for wiring the Poor Law Institution.

16th November 1923 - Hockey

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Hockey

Buntingford entertain Duxford R.A.F.

A good game was witnessed on the Aspenden ground on Saturday last, when Buntingford suffered defeat by six goals to one. From the start the visitors attacked the home goal, and soon took the lead.

Several good runs by the home forwards were spoilt by the good defence of the visitors. By half-time the visitors were five goals up, Buntingford having scored once, through Coleman.

In the second half Buntingford played a better game, but were unable to score. The airmen registered one goal after the interval.

For the home side, E. Mildren and G. Coleman were perhaps the best of the forwards.

Mr Walter May was in charge of the game.

The following played for Buntingford: L. Smith, J.A. Pigg, G.S. Taylor, J. Pigg, R. Pigg, R. Powell, E. Mildren, R. Smith, A. Turney, G. Coleman, T.R.C. Carter.

25th June 1926 - Women's Institute

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Women's Institute

The June monthly meeting, held in the school on the 9th, was to have been, by kind invitation of Mrs E. Pigg, a Garden Meeting, but owing to the unsettled weather it was thought best to hold indoors; nevertheless a very nice tea was given by this lady and thoroughly appreciated by everyone present.

The W.I. Business having been gone through, Mrs R. Turney and Mrs J. Hurry gave very interesting demonstrations on "Rug-making." Hearty thanks were accorded these ladies for their showing and goodwill in answering the many questions put to them.

A competition "Guessing Leaves," in the hands of the Secretary, caused some fun. Mrs C. Whitby guessing 11 out of 12 correctly, Miss N. Carter 10.

Whist was indulged in, Mrs J. Hurry gaining highest, Mrs T. Pigg lowest. For both whist and competition, prizes were given by Miss N. Pigg.

For such a splendid tea and happy time, thanks were proposed by Mrs Coxall to Mrs and the Misses Pigg, and heartily carried.

Mrs Scarborough Taylor and Mrs Armstrong rendered some delightful songs.

The meeting closed with God Save the King.

7th May 1926 - Buckland Fancy Dress Dance

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Buckland

Fancy Dress Dance

A Successful Event

The fancy dress dance, held at the School on Friday evening last, was quite a success, and the organisers and workers are to be congratulated on the financial result, i.e., £8.

The event was in aid of the Women's Institute Funds, and there was a croweded attendance, a large number being attired in fancy dresses. The judges were Mr and Mrs F.B. Cannon, of Hyde Hall, and they had a difficult task to fulfil.

After much deliberation the judges awarded prizes to the following: Miss L. Hurry (Indian Prince), Mrs F. Pigg (Hawker), Mrs R. Stoten (Japanese Costume), Miss R. Beale (Uncle Sam), Miss ____ (Welsh Girl), Miss M. Pigg (Chrysanthemum), Miss E. Whitby (Cigar), Mrs S. Jarman (Ryder's Seeds), and Mr R. Jackson (Tramp).

The prizes were won in the various classes. Miss P. Morris, who very effectively represented a Post Office clearing box, passed on her prize.

The fancy and other dresses mingling for the dancing which followed presented a very striking scene. The Standon Orchestra provided an excellent programme of music, and when the party dispersed it was unanimously agreed that the event was one of the best of its kind held in Buckland.

Mention should be made of the Institute Committee, who were in charge of the refreshments, which gave satisfaction. As stated, the proceeds exceeded £8.