Berwick Advertiser

This Week in World War One, 14 May 1915

08/03/201815/05/2015 by Northumberland Archives

BERWICK ADVERTISER, 14 MAY 1915

The Late Sergt. Jones, Berwick

We have received the following letter regarding the death of Sergeant Jones, teacher, St Mary’s School, Berwick who was killed in action:-

55, Meerbrook Road,

Hesley, Sheffield

(The Editor, “Berwick Advertiser.”)

In your report of the death of my nephew, Sergt. L. S. T. Jones, you state that his parents reside at South Shields.

May I ask you to correct this report. Sergt. Jones has had no parents since quite a child, and never did reside in South Shields, otherwise your description is accurate.

May I at the same time convey to the citizens of Berwick (and the numerous friends of the late Sergt. Jones, who have so greatly sympathised with us in this our sad bereavement), our heartfelt thanks for their consideration to us. It is indeed touching to know how he appears to have been appreciated by the Education Committee, the public bodies with which he has come in contact, and by the citizens generally.

Yours faithfully

J. Memmott

Hints for the Home

A very appetising way to use up all pieces of cold meat is to make a pie of the same, and in these days of high prices we must not waste a morsel. Take cold meet and mutton and slice it, lay these in a pie dish with onion etc, and seasoning. Also cover with gravy of stock, then cover with potatoes and bake in a hot oven until brown.

Berwick Advertiser, 14 May 1915. H.L.Christison Advert.

The first matter of importance when treating a scald or burn is to exclude the air from the wound, covering the burnt apart thickly with flower, and wrapping in cotton wool until medical air can be obtained.

Berwick Advertiser, 14 May 1915 Ralph Dodds Advert

Capital portage labels can be made from old linen collars, which are usually thrown away. They are preferable to paper ones as they cannot be torn and can be cut to any size required.

To make a strong loop for heavy garment, take a thick piece of cord, and cover with kid. This will last as long as the garment.

Knitting needles in rubbed with a cinder will become bright like silver.

Interesting Letter from Engineer at the Front.

Tale of Terrible Fighting.

Private J. P. Smith, of the Royal Engineers, writes an intersting (sic) letter home to Mr Wm. McMillan, 45 Walkergate, Berwick. The letter, which is dated 6^th May, states that it is a treat receiving letters from home, especially from people not young enough to take their proper place in this awful crisis. “Well, old man,” he proceeds, “I am in the best of health, although this business puts grey hairs on a fellows head. It is very busy times just now, as the (sic) are constantly at it day and night – no halt. A sudden move has taken place near Hill 60 again, and the Borderers, along with the West Kent

View from crater on Hill 60 towards Zillebeke, 6 July 1917

Regiment are about to distinguish themselves again. The 25^th have lost a number of good officers and men, but still the vacancies are always filled and ready for action again. On account of the gases used by those unhuman beings you have read about, Poor fellows!, have to report sick with sore eyes. They are using these respirators now, which help to keep it down. But, oh! they are dirty dogs! And our fellows are always waiting for a chance – a fair fight, of which they don’t know the meaning. Well, our Brigade (13^th) have been back for a few hours rest, only to be called on again. To look at some you forget you are at war. They are so cheerful. They might be “fed up,” but never show it. I was along with other two fellows of the Canadians on Tuesday night, and they gave me an illustration on the big fight, for those trenches the French lost. Well, what they said I won’t print. One said: “If that is worse than hell, well, I shall never go there.” The Germans are good fighters, but they had a big casualty list. However, it is the fortunes of war. I expect you saw the German casualty list – 12000 dead alone. Its not war; there is another name for it. However, he is going to be very lucky he who sticks it to the end, and I hope this will be in the near future for one and all. Talk about strikes! Put the people on strike in England in Tommy’s place at the front – what a difference! Well, I hope they have settled down again, as this affair is enough at a time. Well, Willie, news is very secret at present and scarce, so be satisfied with these few lines. Remember me kindly to Mrs McMillan; hope she is still well. I only hope I find my way back to Berwick soon. Well, write me again at your leisure. Good night!

“Behaviour Splendid and Magnificent.”

Local Officer’s Letter.

Captain H. R. Smail, 7^th N.F., Berwick, writing from the front says:-

You will see our address is changed and we are evidently now to refit. We are at a farm, only a few hundred yards from the one I wrote from a week ago. Wish it was the same one but the people are nice here also. We were at an estimauet (sic) overnight. At 11 a.m. we had a visit from Sir John French and staff, including, we think, the Prince of Wales. The Field Marshall evidently thinks a lot of us. I append his address, which is almost in his exact words. He has a voice which carries beautifully. Here goes then – Northumberland Infantry Brigade, 4^th, 5^th, 6^th, and 7^th Northumberland Fusiliers. I am taking this opportunity to come among you to thank you for what you have done during the last ten days. Any unit, and especially a large unit like a division, arriving in this country expects and indeed is necessarily given some time to pull itself together. In the ordinary course of events you would have undergone this period on arrival at C—–l, but owing to the treacherous attack of the Germans which made a serious breach in our lines – a treacherous attack assisted by gas and other devices, the use of which no one worthy of the name of soldier would dream of employing, owing to that attack, I was saying I was forced to send you forward to reinforce the line around Ypres. For any brigade of regular troops your performance would have been wonderful for Territorial troops just landed in this country it is nothing short of SPLENDID AND MAGNIFICENT. I desire to express my appreciation of your work during the last ten days. The way you attacked and took St. Julien was

German's on the ground, St Julien, World war One — German’s on the ground, St Julien, World war One

magnificent and though you had to retire at night you inflicted great loss on the enemy. Though you were bound to retire it was not your fault. You were not supported, why it is not for us to say. During this attack you lost your leader. Brigadier-General Riddell, whose death we all deplore. He was one of the most gallant officers that lived and I feel sure he could not have desired a more glorious death than to die leading his brigade. Your LOSSES ARE SERIOUS among the officers – nine killed and fifty three wounded, while among other ranks the losses are 50 killed and 700 wounded, also there are a great many missing, among which unfortunately there must be a large number killed. Looking all around this morning I admire your lines. From your appearance you might have been in bivouacs all this time, and you look as if you could take your place in the firing-line this afternoon if required. I have no doubt you will SHOW THE SAME GALLANTRY AGAIN if called upon. I always think when addressing Territorial troops of the splendid form of patriotism you have shown. You enlisted for home defence, but you have since taken upon yourselves the obligation of fighting abroad. Not like some others. I think the country appreciates more and more and day by day the sacrifice you are making.”…………..

This has, of course, bucked us up tremendously. I think we will be here for a week at least.

This Week in World War One, 7 May 1915

08/03/201808/05/2015 by Northumberland Archives

BERWICK ADVERTISER 7 MAY 1915

BERWICK PETTY SESSIONS

THURSDAY

Before the Mayor ( Thos. Wilson, Esq.), and Captain Norman, R.N.

Bright Lights- Mr Wm. Kirk Hawkins, cabinet- maker, Berwick, was charged that he did unlawfully allow a bright light to show in his window in Hide Hill, Berwick, at 11.10 p.m. on the 30th April. The charge was brought up under the Defence of the Realm Act. Defendant said, in pleading guilty, he was quite unconscious of the offence. The Chief Constable said it was the third time the defendant had been cautioned. Sergeant Wilson said he saw a very bright light coming from one of the bedrooms in the top window. He stood several minutes, but the light never went up. Witness rang the bell, and defendant put his head over the window complained and asked what he wanted. Witness told defendant the light was too bright, and told him to put it out, and defendant called down and told him to be more civil. Defendant said he had been very careful, and was sorry to be there that day under such circumstances. Fined 12s 6d, the Mayor stating that in future cases persons brought up for the same offence would be more severely dealt with.

CORN EXCHANGE AND ITS ROOF LIGHT

If there is one conspicuous feature about our Corn Exchange it is its noble commanding dome, and the brilliance of the light streaming down through the expansive and glittering canopy. No wonder there were reasonable apprehensions and fears at the approach of the recent grand concert held on behalf of the Berwick Improvised Hospitals, for it was realised that unless the interior light could be sufficiently obscured the blaze of illuminant penetrating to the sky would be an infringement of the emergency bye-laws, possibly leading to the upsetting of the very laudable object aimed by the promoters. It was at such a critical juncture that Mr Angwin, manager of the Electrical Supply Company, came to the rescue of the local committee.

Image from the Berwick Advertiser 4 December 1858, opening of the newly erected Corn Exchange, Berwick-upon-Tweed.

He so manipulated and arranged the lamps of the Corn Exchange that these fully met the requirements of the Chief Constable. The lighting of the Exchange if deprived of its usual brilliance on the other hand presented a mellow and homely effect, and was certainly in this respect in consonance with the strenuousness of the critical times in which we live. The result of the concert was a most pronounced success, and Mr W.J.Dixon, on behalf of Colonel Fraser, R.A.M.C. (T.), made a neat little speech of thanks. the appearance of Boy Scouts, under the command of Scoutmaster R. C. Clements, was an attractive feature, and they lent material assistance in the sale of programmes.

RIDING BERWICK BOUNDS

THE MAYOR’S BANQUET

The 307th time of Riding the Bounds of Berwick was observed on Monday when a large crowd assembled on the Parade to watch the start. There were only six equestrians as compared with nine on the previous year, while there were nine drawn vehicles containing citizens who preferred the more sedate and leisurely mode of travelling. Ideal weather favoured the function.

BRO 1944/1/149/1 Riding of the Bounds, Parade, Berwick-upon-Tweed, 1952 — BRO 1944/1/149/1 Riding of the Bounds, leaving the Parade, Berwick-upon-Tweed, 1952

Sharp to the mid-day hour the horsemen set off by the way of the fields, the brakes proceeded by Church Street, High Street, Castlegate and North Road. As usual at Mordington the school children were lined up in expectation of their usual supply of oranges from Chief Constable Nicholson of which they received an ample share engaging in an amusing scramble as the fruit was thrown amongst them. At Canty’s Bridge the horsemen indulged in their usual races. At the Inn a supply of refreshments on a liberal scale were served out. On returning to Berwick a short halt was made at the Town Hall where the Mayor returned his thanks to those who had accompanied him in the historical ceremony, and in return hearty cheers were raised for thee Mayor, the Mayoress, and their little daughter.

The horsemen were:- Mr John Lauder, Burnbank, Foulden; the Messrs Waites, Castlehills and Mr Collingwood, who was accompanied by Miss Collingwood.

BERWICK EDUCATION COMMITTEE

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT

TEACHERS’ POWERS

A monthly meeting of Berwick Education Committee was held in the Council Chamber of the Town Hall on Wednesday morning. The Chairman, Mr W.J. Dixon, presided, and others present were:- Ald. Greenwood, Capt. Norman, R.N. Messers C. Forsyth, A.J. Dodds, Jos. Watson, E. Brewis, A.D. Watt, J. McDonald, W. C. Richardson, along with the Clerk ( Mr Jas. Gibson) and the Borough Treasurer, Mr T.C. Smith.

THE LATE SERGEANT JONES

The Chairman, prior to the commencement of the business, made the following feeling reference to the death of Sergeant L. S. T. Jones of the 7^th N.F., who has been killed in action:- before proceeding with the business of the meeting I refer with the deepest regret to the sad death of Sergeant L. S. T. Jones of the 7^th N.F., who was killed in action on 26^th April. As a teacher in St. Mary’s School he was beloved alike by his fellow teachers and the children. The Education Committee have lost a good and competent teacher and the borough a useful and promising citizen. As President of Berwick and District Harriers I was intimately associated with him in this branch of sport, he being one of our best and gamest cross-country runners. Only a few weeks ago he was second in a military cross-country run at Blyth. I ever found him a keen and genuine sportsman, and as a sportsman he has died the most glorious death a man can die- fighting for his King and Country. I now move a resolution that a letter be sent to his relatives from this Committee expressing our sincere sympathy with them in their sad bereavement, and our admiration of his gallant conduct; and ask Captain Norman, a Manager of St. Mary’s School, to second the resolution.

Captain Norman in seconding said:- Mr Jones was a teacher of great ability and much promise, devoted to his work, and became a great favourite of staff and scholars alike during his four years service as certificated assistant. His work has been commended by Inspectors, especially in drawing, in which he was highly qualified. His interest in the boys led him to form a drill and gymnasium class. He entered thoroughly into and took a leading part on the games and sports. In promoting swimming, and football, and harriers races his efforts were unceasing. I am sure that the boys as well as the teachers of his school will very keenly feel his loss; and I should like to extend these remarks by saying that a man of that sort is a most serious loss not only to his own immediate circle, but to the community in which for the last 4 years he has been usefully engaged.

The resolution was unanimously adopted, the members the while standing.

In Memory of

Sergeant

LEON STANLEY TREVOR JONES

1384, 1st/7th Battalion, Northumberland Fusiliers who died 26 April 1915, aged 25. Nephew of Mrs. E. M. Memmott, of 55, Meersbrook Road, Sheffield. Remembered with Honour, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

(Source: Commonwealth War Graves Commission)

Memorial T L F Jones — Photograph Marc Ryckaert, licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported license.

This Week in World War One, 30 April 1915

08/03/201801/05/2015 by Northumberland Archives

BERWICK ADVERTISER, 30 APRIL 1915

WOOLER

Red Cross- Lady Boyle has acknowledged, having received a box of bandages, dressings, clothing and chocolate from the Wooler Women’s Voluntary Aid Detachment for Red Cross Hospitals in Serbia. Mrs Tower Robertson, Berwick, has acknowledged another parcel of comforts for soldiers from the members of the Wooler Girl’s Friendly Society.

The Local Territorials

BRO 2098-002 Image from Berwick Record Office: Northumberland Fusilier Camp at Greystoke: 7th Northumberland Fusiliers June 1914

The Local Territorials attached to the 7th Northumberland’s left for an unknown destination last week. Letters have been received, from which it appears they have arrived safely in France, and will no doubt find themselves in the fighting line before long. Let us hope that they will render a good account of themselves, and uphold the honour of Northumberland, returning safe home when the Huns have been satisfactorily disposed of, and that complete victory may crown the efforts of the Allies and that this may be speedily accomplished will be the fervent wish of all.

FIRST CASUALITY (sic) IN THE 7^th N.F.

Berwick Territorials Wounded.

More casualties were reported on Thursday amongst the local troops who left the North about a week ago, and took part in the battle of Ypres soon after they arrived at the front.

We learn that the Northumberland Territorials have taken an active part in the fighting, and amongst the battalions engaged were the 4^th, 5^th, 6^th and 7^th Battalions Northumberland Fusiliers, the 5^th 7^th and 8^th Battalions of the Durham Light Infantry, and the 4^th Yorkshire Territorials.

From word received from the front in Berwick on Wednesday, it is quite evident that the Berwick companies of the 7^th Northumberland Fusiliers, have received their baptism of fire. Mrs Egan, 23 Church Street, Berwick, has received a field postcard from her son, Private H. S. Egan, No. 1 Company, 7^th N.F., saying that he was wounded and in hospital. Private Egan is a son of the late Sergeant James Egan, Royal Field Artillery, who, after twenty years’ service in the Army, came to reside in Berwick. Mrs Buglass, 35 Church Street, Berwick, has also received a postcard from her son, Corporal James Buglass, No. 1 Company, 7^th N.F., saying he is wounded and in hospital. The 7^th N.F. left for the front a week past Tuesday, and have been put into action very soon.

Since writing the above information has been received by Mrs Davidson, 37 Dock View, Tweedmouth, that her oldest son, Pte. A. Davidson, 7^th N.F., has been wounded. Mrs Davidson’s second son, Pte. T. Davidson, is also serving in the same regiment. Mrs Waite, 9 Tweedside Terrace, Tweedmouth, has also received information that her son, Pte. Thomas Waite, has been wounded in the leg. Pte. Waite was employed in the office of Mr H. R. Peters, solicitor, Berwick, before the outbreak of war.

Sir E. Grey’s Cousin in Solitary Confinement

Amongst the British officers who have been placed in prison in solitary confinement by the Germans, as a reprisal for the treatment of the German submarine crews, is Captain Robin Grey, who is a cousin of Sir Edward Grey, and was formerly Conservative candidate for the Bishop Auckland Division. He was reported as missing in October, and a prisoner at Torgau in November. He was decorated in September with the Legion of Honour for distinguished service in the field.

Map locating Torgau, World War One http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I_prisoners_of_war_in_Germanyhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I_prisoners_of_war_in_Germany — Map locating Torgau, World War One http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I_prisoners_of_war_in_Germany

Another officer who has been placed in solitary confinement is Lieut. Alaistair Robertson, Gordon Highlanders, son of Mr W. Robertson, Cheltenham. Lieut. Robertson is nephew of Major Tower Robertson, Tweedmouth, and of Miss A. Henderson, Ravensdowne, Berwick. He was twenty-two years of age on the day he was arrested.

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