Berwick Advertiser

BERWICK ADVERTISER, 8 AUGUST 1919

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MILITARY NOTES

TO RESERVE

In the K.O.S.B., Regular Forces, Captain R. Joynson resigns his commission and joins the General Reserve of Officers, getting its seniority as Captain as from September 28th, 1915.

VOLUNTEERS’ CERTIFICATES

The work done by volunteers during the war is to be commemorated by the War Office Certificates, bearing the signature of Mr Churchhill, are now being given to all ranks who joined the various units as a record of their service in the force.

K.O.S.B. AND MINDEN DAY

On Friday, August 1st, Minden Day, the officers, W.O.’s, N.C.O.’s, and men at the Barracks, Berwick, wore a red rose in their caps. The battle of Minden was fought during the Seven Years’ War on August 1st, 1759, when Prince Ferdinand with 40,000 British and Hanoverian troops defeated the French, who lost 8000 men, of whom 3000 were made prisoners. As a result of the seven years’ war British supremacy in India was secured, Canada became a British colony, and the British command of the sea was to a great extent secured.

SPORTS AT THE GREENS

IN CELEBRATION OF ANNIVERSARY OF MOBILISATION

Residents in the upper part of the town and in the Greens in particular spent a pleasant hour on Monday evening, when in celebration of the anniversary of mobilisation, a small sports meeting was arranged and gone through on the Main Street in front of the Pilot Inn.

A crowd of several hundreds turned up to witness the events, and great hilarity prevailed, especially in the treacle bun competitions for youths resident in the Greens. Mick Noon, who is reputed to hold all the worlds records for treacle bun contests, was present as an interested spectator, but took no part in the bun worry, preferring to leave the honours to those of more youthful years.

The sports were in charge of Messrs Richard and Alic Murphy, who were assisted by a willing band of stewards, who took entries in the crowd, and greatly helped to run the events through smoothly.

An early 20th century image of the Low Greens, Berwick-upon-Tweed. Ref: BRO 515-398

The boot race for youths provided some good running, the competitors getting off their marks smartly, only to find trouble in store for them at the lower part of the Greens, where “Tucker” saw it that the boots were well mixed. Manuel was an easy winner, walking home as he liked. Several who followed were disqualified for not having their boots properly laced.

The potato picking race brought out several of the old-time athlete. Amongst the entrants were such peds. As “Tucker” and “Dodger,” and great laughter was occasioned when the latter prepared to strip off and indulge in a preliminary canter. The pace was fast from the start, and “Tay” Burgon was a popular winner. Robert Burgon was awarded second place, and “Tucker” Jameison third.

The crowd surging around, rather spoiled the first treacle bun event, but screams of laughter could be heard as the young competitors made franctic drives at the elusive buns, only to be smeared with treacle all over the face. The prize-money was divided between Gillie, Manuel and Jamieson.

A similar event for younger boys was equally amusing, and Matthews got through his bun at least a minute before anyone else, Borthwick being second, and Patterson and Dixon tying for third place.

Children’s races were then run off, and the sports were brought to a close with a women’s race. This created great amusement, several dames of mature years turning out. Mrs Wakenshaw ran well, and was at the tape a good three yards ahead of the others. Mrs Gillie was second, and Mrs Young third.

In the race for young men, Manuel got home first, with Gillie and Burgon a good second and third.

During the evening a collection was taken up for St. Dunstan’s Hostel, and the creditable sum of £2 6s 4d was raised, for which the promoters thank the public who subscribed.

The fun was kept up to a late hour, dancing to the music of an accordion taking place. “Auld Lang Syne” brought to a close a most enjoyable night.

ORD

The presentation of Peace Mugs, which could not take place on the day appointed for local Peace Celebrations, was carried out in ideal weather on Friday afternoon, August 1st, at the close of school for summer holidays. The scholars assembled at the Village Green, and were joined by others from outlying parts of the parish. After singing several songs, the arrival of Lord and Lady Francis Osborne was the signal for the ceremony to begin. After a short and appropriate speech from Mr Armstrong, chairman of the Parish Council, the children marched past and received their mugs.

Village Green at Ord in 1915

Lady Osborne complimented the children on their appearance, and conduct, wished them a happy holiday, and hoped they would treasure the mugs as a souvenir of the great occasion. On the motion of Councillor Armstrong, Lady Osborne was cordially thanked for her services. The singing of the National Anthem marked the close of quite a pleasing function. In addition to scholars and teachers, the company present included:- Lord and lady Francis Osborne, Ord House; Mr and Mrs Armstrong, Murton White House, Mr and Mrs Lake, Tweed View, East Ord; Mr Harry Lake and Miss Lake, Bourne, Lincolnshire; Mrs McBain, Ord Cottage, Mrs Hornby, East Ord Schoolhouse, and Mr and Mrs Chrystal, East Ord.

GLENDALE AGRICULTURAL SHOW

POPULAR FUNCTION REVIVED

The war having curtailed the energies of the Glendale Agricultural Society, the public looked forward to the time when the show would be revived, and they were not disappointed in the splendid meeting which was arranged for on Thursday last. Old institutions die hard, but there is a yet no sign that the Glendale Society has reached the period of the sere and yellow leaf. Under the capable direction of Mr R. Noble, Shipley, Alnwick, little is left out of account which would be material to the success of the meeting.

Sheep Farmers, Glendale Show 1957. Ref: BRO 1760-1

Under the restrictions and curtailment of railway service, this year’s revival falls short of pre-war days, but notwithstanding this, the Show as presented gave satisfaction to all, and was a happy augury for the future. The jumping of hunters, which was at one time a feature of the show, had this year to be cut out, owing to the great difficulties which are being experienced by agriculturists in getting stock removed from place to place. Part of the large field too where the event was held formerly is now let for grazing, and the cattle, sheep, and industrial sections had to be held in the Wooler Mart premises, kindly placed at the disposal of the Committee.

During the forenoon, the weather was fair, with a high wind prevailing, and most of the judging was carried through expeditiously. Unfortunately, however, in the afternoon a rainstorm was experienced, and the velocity of the wind increased, which must have had an adverse effect upon the attendance.

Compared with 1914, when the last show was held, the entries showed a total decrease of 80. As a whole, the display of stock was quite creditable, the sheep and horses being particularly good.

TWEEDMOUTH JOTTINGS

ACCIDENT

What might have proved a very nasty if not fatal accident, occurred on Monday forenoon. While Edward Simpson, Border Inn, and a worker in Scremerston pit, was cycling down Sunnyside, in endeavouring to pass a flock of lambs being driven to Berwick Mart, two or three lambs ran across the track of his cycle, throwing him heavily. Fortunately, he fell on to the top of sheep, but his shoulder was pretty badly bruised.

BERWICK ADVERTISER, 25 JULY 1919

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MORE BAD HOUSES IN NORHAM AND ISLANDSHIRE

A WRETCHED HOUSE FOR A DEMOBILISED SOLDIER

At a meeting of the Rural District Council on Tuesday afternoon, Dr McWhir submitted a further report on defective housing. Since the last meeting of the Council there had been three deaths, representing a death rate of 7.0 per 1000.

Mr J. R. Wood – That testifies to the wonderful good health of the people in the district.

Giving special cases of defective housing conditions in the district, Dr McWhir strongly criticised in his report the unhealthy condition of cottages on various farms. The farm cottages selected by the Medical Officer this month were those at Cheswick Buildings, Ancroft Town Farm, Newburn, Cornhill Farm, and Cheswick Farm, the conditions here being described by him as appalling. Most of the houses were damp and imperfectly lighted with hinged windows. At the conclusion of his report he mentioned that a soldier recently demobilised was living in one of these wretched houses.

The state of housing in the area in the early part of the 20th century is exemplified in this picture of Golden Square, Berwick, similar problems being experienced in the Norham and Islandshire District.

During the stress and strain of war there had been a lot of claptrap about improving the housing conditions of the men on their return, and he wondered if, by allowing such conditions to remain, the country were showing its indebtedness in the proper way to the men who had fought in the war.

There was an interesting discussion on the report, the Council as a body being evidently determined to make themselves thoroughly acquainted with the facts with a view to having the evils remedies. There are great difficulties in the way of reform, one of the chief of these being – as pointed out by the Chairman, that of finding suitable accommodation for the families in the event of their present houses being condemned

COTTAGES AT CHESWICK BUILDINGS

In describing the cottages at Cheswick Buildings, Dr McWhir said that while not being ideal when contrasted with others, they were above the average.

PEACE CELEBRATIONS

HORNCLIFFE

Horncliffe Peace Celebrations took the form of a tea to the children and old people of the village. The Committee responsible could not get a field in the village, but one at the riverside was kindly given by Mr Dixon, farmer, at Velvet Hall. Owing to the distance of the field from the village many old people were unable to participate in the afternoon’s enjoyment. The school children assembled at Horncliffe School, and afterwards marched to the Post Office, where their parents and friends were waiting to hear the Royal Proclamation read. The Proclamation was read by Mr Geo. Turner, and the children, led by Mr Cunningham and Miss Guy, afterwards sang the National Anthem and splendidly they sang it. The children then marched round the village singing and waving their flags, and afterwards proceeded to the field, accompanied by parents and friends. A good tea was provided, which all enjoyed, and afterwards the children and grown-ups ran races and played games until about 7 p.m.

The children looked so happy in their holiday attire, and with their gay flags that one felt it was a privilege to contribute to their enjoyment. It was intended to present each child with a medal, but these did not come forward in time, so the children will get them later on.

In the evening a dance was held in the Schoolroom and afterwards a bonfire was lit on the Bank Head.

The sports were held under the supervision of the Head Master, Mr T. F. Cunningham, and Miss Guy, assistant, together with Mr G. Turner, the correspondent of the school, who was responsible for most of the arrangements for the tea. The worthy village blacksmith, Mr A. Simpson, also rendered valuable service in the fitting up the various erections for the sports. The actual serving of the tea was under the experienced and kindly care of Mrs Redpath of Horncliffe, who was ably assisted by several very willing young ladies. Milk for the tea was kindly sent by Mrs Embleton, Mrs J. Brown, and Mrs Jeffrey.

NOTES FROM SPITTAL

NORWEGIAN REWARD TO FISHERMEN

Mr Bart Lough, Spittal, and his gallant crew have been presented with £21 from the King of Norway for having rescued the sole survivor of the Norwegian steamship “Venus,” which was blown up at sea off Berwick on April 14th, 1917.

Pictured with the lifeboat at Spittal are members of the lifeboat crew, some of whom who were on the rescue that day.

The rescued man lay for a considerable time in Berwick Infirmary before finally recovering.  The presentation was made by Mr Toohey, and we understand the award has been apportioned as follows:- £5 to Mr Lough; and £2 each to P. Emery, W. Patterson, P. Patterson, John Patterson, Thomas Johnston, J. Laidlaw, R. Elliott, and Thomas White.

LOCAL NEWS

A rather peculiar incident took place in the Baptist Church, Berwick, on Sunday. Major McGill was to have conducted the service morning and evening, but was unable to be forward owing to the railway strike, and the Rev. J. R. Bentley being in the congregation he was asked to take the service. This he kindly consented to do, but as he entered the pulpit a few of the congregation rose from their seats and left the building. A fine example of present-day Christianity?

On Thursday, this week, the 1st Berwick Company of Girl Guides go into camp for a week at Gainslaw. The company has been in existence for about a year, and the girls look very smart in their navy blue uniforms, several of them having already qualified for badges. While in camp, Miss Gordon Smith, their leader will be in charge, and the time will be spent in “tracking” and further qualifying for badges. Through the kindness of Mr Rand, the barn at Gainslaw farm will be available in case of wet weather.

During the progress of the athletic sports the grass on the crown of the ramparts over Flagstaff Park caught fire, evidently having been ignited by a match thrown down by some careless smoker, and burned fiercely all afternoon. Fanned by a westerly wind the fire spread all along to the covering flankers and it was rather a sell to those who believe in having their amusement free by standing on the walls, to have their view of the Cricket Field blotted out with smoke. The grass was still smouldering on Tuesday.

A meeting of the Northumberland Insurance Committee was held in Newcastle last week Mr Gerald A. France, M.P., was re-elected chairman, and Mr G. G. Rea vice-chairman. Mr D. H. W. Askew was one of the County Council nominations to the Committee, and Mrs Plenderleith, of Berwick, was one of the two women appointed. The list of applications for sanatorium benefit was much longer than usual, and the Chairman impressed upon the Committee the necessity for increased accommodation as soon as possible.

BERWICK ADVERTISER, 11 JULY 1919

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PEACE PROCLAIMED AT BERWICK

On Saturday morning, at the Town hall, at about 11.20, before the Mayor and Mayoress, the Sheriff, and a few other ladies and gentlemen, on the steps, and a large crowd at the foot, Mayor’s Sergeant Blakey read the King’s Proclamation of Peace, and after that the proclamation of Special peace services in the churches on Sunday. The reading of the proclamations was preceded by a Royal salute blown by two K.O.S.B. buglers in khaki (Corpl. Watson and Drummer Hart). After the Mayor had intimated that a united service would be held in the Playhouse, “God Save the King” was sung with great gusto, and then Sergeant Blakey accompanied by the Deputy Town Clerk (Mr A. Aird), and the two buglers, set out in a motor (Master Bellringer Payne riding in front) to proclaim peace at the following places. The peace services in church were only proclaimed at the Town Hall.

Dr. Maclagan’s Monument

Corner of Tweed Street and Castlegate

Castle Terrace and Castlegate

Foot of High Greens

Foot of Low Greens

Foot of Lower Ravensdowne

Sandgate (before Corn Exchange)

An early 20th century photograph of the Tweedmouth end of the old bridge where one of the peace proclamations was made. BRO 2103/4/2/21b

Tweedmouth Bridge End

Harrow Inn, Tweedmouth

Blenheim Hotel, Spittal

Spittal Forge

This must be the first time a motor car has been used in Berwick for a proclamation of peace. The announcement at so many points quite close together is a relic of days when the dissemination of news was not nearly so easy as it has been this last hundred years.

THE BOROUGH’S FREEDOM FOR WAR SERVICES

Councillor Anderson’s motion that the Freedom of the Borough should be conferred on the Mayor, the Sheriff, Lt,-Col. Scott Jackson, and Lt.-Col Liddell, and all who have served overseas, at sea, and in the air, will be welcomed throughout the Borough. It is no more than their due. Many have done their best or their country within the island, but none will grudge that this particular honour which is being conferred on Berwick’s soldiers and sailors is confined to those who have risked everything to defend their country overseas. We hope that as many of them as possible will join in the dinners at the end of next week, and if they fail to do justice to them, we are confident that it will not be for lack of good things.

LOCAL NEWS

RELICS OF WAR AT THE BARRACKS – On Wednesday a Trench Mortar captured from the Germans by the 1st Battalion, K.O.S.B., arrived in the town and was handed over to the “Stores” at Berwick Depot, where it will await until the battalion claims it. At present there is quite a “menagerie” at the Depot, including several kinds of Hun machine guns, six of which belong to the 1st Battalion, six to the 2nd Battalion, and two to the 6th Battalion. Up to the present there is no immediate danger of any of the Battalions applying for them.

NOTES FROM SPITTAL

CHURCH PARADE

On Sunday morning last the local branch of the Comrades of the Great War responded to the Rev. J. H. Cuthbertson’s invitation and held a Church parade to St. John’s, Spittal. The Parade was in charge of Commandant Pattison, who was assisted by the Secretary, Mr R. St. G. Tait. Scremerston Band, under Bandmaster Whitfield, also attended, and took part in the musical portion of the service.

The Scremerston Brass Band which took part in the musical portion of a special peace service in St John’s Church, Spittal.  Berwick Record Office – BRO 1753-2a.

About 100 Comrades turned out and there were also on parade a section of the Northumberland Fusilier cadets. Capt. C. L. Fraser, O.C. 4th V.B.N.F., and Lieuts. McCreath and Tweedie were also present.

Special Peace Sermons and prayers being ordered in all Churches, Mr Cuthbertson devoted himself almost entirely to giving thanks to God for the great blessing of peace which they fervently hoped would be an enduring one. He also brought out in the course of his remarks the spirit of brotherhood which should be the symbol of the Comrades and said he hoped that organisations such as theirs would prove a strengthening force in the years which lay before them.

Suitable hymns were sung, in which the men heartily joined while at the conclusion of the service, the band led in the National Anthem.

The Parade was reformed outside the Church and headed by the band, marched to the Ferry Landing where the men were dismissed.

BERWICK AND FOULDEN DIVORCE CASE

In the Court of Sessions on Thursday, before Lord Anderson, Robert Hunter Lees, provision manager, 76, Meigle Street, Galashiels, and an employee of Messrs R. Dodds & Sons, grocers, Berwick, was granted a divorce against Grace M’Cormack or Lees, Foulden, Burnbank, Berwickshire, on the grounds of infidelity.

“I do not love you now,” wrote Mrs Lees to her husband, while he was in France with his regiment. Parties were married in July, 1917, and in August he left for France. Mrs Lees had given birth to an illegitimate child in January 1919.

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