Berwick Playhouse

This Week in World War One, 28 June 1918

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BERWICK ADVERTISER, 28 JUNE 1918

 

Comrades of the Great War

MEETING OF BERWICK BRANCH

 

The first general meeting of the Berwick Branch of the Comrades of the Great War was held on Tuesday evening in the Oddfellows’ Hall, when Mr John Thornton presided over a fair attendance.

The Chairman, in a short address, said that the reason of forming a branch was with the object of assisting others who were not so well off as themselves. The Association was non-political, as no wise soldier liked politics. A gratifying feature was that they had many members of Parliament and titled persons identifying themselves with the Association, and working for the ex-soldier. He was pleased to say fifteen members had joined since last meeting, so that they were now over 50, and that was not a bad beginning for three weeks, but they wanted far more in Berwick and district. He did not think the Association was one which would flatten out once the war was finished, and it was to be world-wide in its aims and objects.

 

Comrades of the Great War badge. © David Power, NonComercial-ShareAlike 1.0.

 

There had been a campaign started in the general press at large to assist the ex-soldier, but he held that these efforts intended to do very little and he criticised the action of several prominent newspapers, as well as a member of parliament and others, who pretended to answer queries with the object of assisting the ex-soldier. The Association would only take up a case after it had been considered by the local War Pensions Committee. All who knew of deserving cases should state the circumstances as concisely as possible to the Secretary, Mr R. St. G. Tait, and a special printed form would be supplied to assist in filling in the necessary particulars. He mentioned also that Mr James Gibson, clerk to the local Pensions Committee, would only be too pleased to have any assistance in dealing with the too numerous cases placed in his hands. Mr Gibson had told him that three-fourths of his time was wasted in travelling from one house to another seeking information. Amid applause he intimated that he had received the first local donation to the funds. This was a cheque for £1 1s from Major Alex. Steven.

Mr C. Judge suggested that it would be a good thing to advertise appealing for funds.

It was announced that the Berwick Branch have fought and won their first case- a discharged Berwick soldier having received a calling-up notice to rejoin the colours. The local branch took the matter up: result-soldier notified by wire- “calling-up notice cancelled-exemption following.

 

BERWICK MILITARY TRIBUNALS

 

A NEWSPAPER EDITOR

Henry Smail Hamilton (42), Grade 11., editor and newspaper manager, residing at 4 Ravensdowne, Berwick, was a new case in which the man appealed on the ground of indispensability. A letter in support of this was read from Major H.R. Smail, N.F., explaining that Mr Hamilton had sole charge of the “Advertiser” Office, and was quite indispensable. If appellant had not gone into the business it would have been necessary for him  Major Smail) to have returned to civil life, and now that he (Major Smail) had again gone on active service, it was all the more necessary to have Mr Hamilton in charge of the office.

The National Service Representative said he had no remarks to make.

Three months’ exemption was granted.

A BUSY TAILOR

Ralph Crammond (37), a Grade 111. man, tailor, formerly of Horncliffe, now employed by Messrs Paxton and Purves, Ltd., Berwick, was stated to be largely engaged in military work at the present time; and that the firm had only half of their former staff at a time which was now the height of the season. The firm was exceedingly busy, and had the greatest difficulty in completing orders. This was the firm’s first appeal, and it was hoped the Tribunal would take a favourable view and grant exemption. The man was married, and had a wife and two children, nine and eleven years respectively.

Mr Herriot- Is it competent to grant exemption on occupational grounds?

The National Service Representative – I am not quite certain; certainly it is not competent to grant exemption to a Grade 1 man.

In view of the low category three months’ exemption was granted.

 

 

 

CAPTAINCY AND BAR TO MILITARY CROSS

FOR LIEUT. IAN MACKAY

 

We extend our heartiest congratulations to Capt. Ian Mackay, M.C., R.F.A., on his having gained his third “pip.” We are also informed that Captain Mackay has been awarded a bar to his Military Cross for gallantry in the field.

Captain Mackay who is the eldest son of Dr. W. B. Mackay, C.M.G., enlisted in the early stages of the war and after having done his course with the O.T.C. was gazetted to the R.F.A. He has had some trying experiences in France and for gallantry in the field was awarded the M.C. two years ago. On one occasion last year he was buried by falling debris in an advanced gun pit, but happily escaped without injury. His experience of the front has varied from the sea to the Somme and that he has come through it all is a matter for congratulation. We trust he will advance still further in the honoured Corps to which he belongs and that he may long be spared to wear his decoration. His younger brother, Lieut. Eric Mackay, is in the R.A.F., and was recently in the town on a short leave.

 

SPITTAL SCHOOL MASTER KILLED IN ACTION

 

As we announced on June 14th Captain John Martin Tate was killed in action on May 27th. Mr Tate was a Bachelor of Science of Durham University and on the outbreak of war was an assistant master in Spittal Council School. Early in 1915 he obtained a commission as second lieutenant in the 14th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers and soon afterwards was sent to France where he has taken part in most of the great struggles on the western front. During his three years as a soldier he has practically spent the whole time in fighting and strenuous work in France.

A year ago, on reaching the rank of Captain, Tate married a Newcastle lady, who occasionally visited Spittal and from whom we are able to give particulars of the gallant soldier’s death contained in a letter written to Mrs Tate by the Lieut. Colonel of the regiment. He says:- I regret more than I can tell you to have to write that your husband was killed in action on the 27th May. I know only too well that I can say little to soften the blow, but I say that death was instantaneous and that the manner of it was splendid and up to the highest traditions of the British Army. He and his men were surrounded and they counter-attacked the Hun repeatedly against terrific odds three times and on the last occasion your husband was killed leading his men. It was splendid and beyond praise. I miss and shall miss him; he was a friend as well as a perfect officer and was admired, respected, and loved by all. His courage and devotion to duty was of the highest order and I could and did always rely on him and never once did he fail. He would undoubtedly have gone far. He has been with me since 1915 and I cannot tell you how much his loss means to me. He was a husband to be proud of. The whole Battalion, or what are left of us, mourn his loss and cherish his memory.

His many friends in Spittal and especially the scholars and teachers of Spittal Council School regret the loss of a young man of marked ability who endeared himself to all during his short stay amongst them. To Mrs Tate they all express their deepest sympathy.

 

 

BERWICK FOOD CONTROL COMMITTEE

 

At the meeting last Monday, various transfers of ration cards were agreed to including one where the purchaser on account of removal wished to transfer from Berwick to Tweedmouth tradesmen.

Tea which is rationed in Berwick will not be rationed nationally when the new scheme books come into force on July 14. It is however possible to use a spare leaf in the book for this purpose, and the Berwick Food Control Committee is applying for power to increase the ration for tea to 2ozs. per head. Belford is not included in this application and will have to apply specially if it is thought desirable.

An application for an additional ration of butcher meat on medical grounds was agreed to.

The question of a supply of butcher meat for visitors to the Borough during the summer was brought before the Committee, and after consideration, it was agreed that the Chairman should call upon the Food Commissioner when in Newcastle to ascertain if some arrangement could not be made whereby an extra supply could be allocated for the summer visitors.

This Week in World War One, 19 April 1918

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BERWICK ADVERTISER, 19 APRIL 1918

 

WAR NEWS

TWEEDMOUTH SOLDIER KILLED

It was with profound regret that we learn of the death in action on 23rd March, of Signaller T. W. Logan, Hussars, son of Mr and Mrs George Logan, Railway Buildings, Tweedmouth. The official news only arrived on Sunday last, but for some weeks his parents had been anxious as to his safety. Signaller Logan who was 24 years of age was a quiet studious lad, taking a keen interest in Continuation Class Education where he succeeded in taking his eighty words speed certificate in Shorthand and also became proficient in book-keeping. He received his schooling under Mr John Peacock, Tweedmouth, and then went to the Tweedside Co-Operative Society as a draper, which trade he followed up to the time of his enlistment in January, 1915. He was trained at Stocksfield and York, and later was stationed at Titworth. Proceeding into France with his regiment, he was later invalided home and again being classed fit for service, was drafted to the front again in October last year. The news of his end will come as a blow to the many friends who loved and respected him, and to the bereaved parents the deepest sympathy is extended.

 

BERWICK OFFICER WOUNDED AND MISSING

Lieut. W. Leonard Ward-Davis

 

We are sorry to hear that information has come to Mr and Mrs Ward-Davis, North Terrace, Berwick that their son, Lieut. W. L. Ward-Davis, Kings Royal Rifles, has been wounded in the recent fighting and is missing. In view of the fact that several companies of regiments holding the line were overwhelmed by the German onrush, there is every reason to hope that this gallant young officer has been taken prisoner and we trust reassuring news will be received by his parents soon.

Lieut. Davis joined up as a private on reaching the age of eighteen and proceeded to France in 1916, being wounded six weeks later by slight gunshot in the face. Recovering at a Base hospital in France, he was soon back in the line again and was later sent to this country to go through a course preparatory to taking a commission. He received his commission in the summer of last year, and has since then seen heavy work in France. Prior to enlisting he was employed as a clerk in the Commercial Bank, Berwick, and was educated at Berwick Grammar School.

 

LOCAL NEWS

The Playhouse continues to attract large audiences and maintains its reputation for the fine class and variety of its films. “The Saints Adventure” is the novel title of this week’s film. It depicts the life story of an American pastor. He is appointed to one of the most fashionable New York Churches, whose assets exceed half a million pounds, and its charity balls are a society function. Charlie Chaplin also appears in his inimitable Comedy “The Vagabond”. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday a charming and entertaining comedy entitled “Skinner’s Bubble” is to be filmed. It is a sequel to the one which was recently screened “Skinner’s Dress Suit,” which raised him from the humble position of cashier to that of junior partner. An out and out bluffer the new picture shows Skinner imagining that he can become a Napoleon of the industrial world by starting on his own account. It is then that the partners decide that it would be a tremendous mistake in letting so valuable a person as Skinner go out of the firm. It so happens that just as Skinner is preparing to file his bankruptcy papers, and confess himself a most miserable failure; the partners make him a staggering offer to rejoin their firm. Excellent variety articles are found in Halbert, ventriloquist, and De Lil, illusionist, who are complete in their acts and tricks.

 

SCREMERSTON

We are pleased to see home on a well-earned rest after having been wounded for the third time, Lance-Corporal Thos. Robertson, of Scremerston Hill Farm, Scremerston. We wish him a pleasant holiday.

All men taken by Ballot at Scremerston Colliery last week have passed the medical Board, and are off to Catterick.

An early image of Scremertson Colliery © Northumberland Archives Berwick, BRO 515-209.

Private John Mowitt, N.F., has been home at Scremerston Old Colliery on hospital leave for ten days, he having been in hospital in England for the last four months suffering with his chest and feet. Mowitt has been twice in France, and has seen some fighting, notably Paschendaal. Previous to joining the Army he was an old Territorial, and worked as a miner at Scremerston Colliery. He is married, has a wife and two children.

 

TILLMOUTH

The children of the school, under the tutorship of Mr and Mrs Rathbone, gave a most varied and interesting evening on Friday last of song and play. Sir Francis Blake was in the chair, and in his opening remarks alluded to the high place the school had taken in War Savings Fund and of the good work done in the district in connection with the war. In conclusion Sir Francis said we were here at the invitation of teachers and children to show us parents what is being done to bring out the individuality of the child, as after all when school days are over the confidence of our own individuality was a great factor. For two hours the crowded school were treated to a most delightful programme and to pick out any child for special mention would be unfair. A silver collection was made, and a sum of £8 10s 11d was forthcoming, which Mr Rathbone is handing over to Blind Soldiers’ Children Fund. Expenses were nil, owing to the kindness of a few friends, to whom our thanks are due for putting up stage and carting seats. Special thanks are due to the children for their enthusiasm in their training and also to Mr and Mrs Rathbone for the care and trouble taken. The success of performers will no doubt be ample reward for their kindness in providing such a treat for the district.

This Week in World War One, 9 March 1917

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BERWICK ADVERTISER, 9 MARCH 1917

 

LOCAL NEWS

 

Local Minister and the Food Problem. – In compliance with the recommendation of the Food Controller the Rev. John Macaskill, M.A., on Sunday in Wallace Green Church, Berwick, directed the attention of the congregation to the circular letter he had received regarding voluntary rationing. To the young people present he delivered a short but most interesting address based on the words, “Gathering up the fragments.” He showed how much food could be saved if each was to take care of the small pieces of bread that were over at meal times, and how great this waste amounted to in the aggregate. The same lesson applied to the diligent use of time. People often remarked how clever such and such a person was, but the explanation of this was to be found in the fact the individual alluded to made proper use of his odd moments in improving and storing his mind with useful knowledge. The reverend gentleman’s subsequent sermon was in a similar theme, and in concluding he pointed out that no doubt after the war habits of thrift of a bygone generation would be inculcated. Some might be inclined to think that we would lose the habits of hospitality for which our nation had been known. While restraints were good we must see that in the end it did not deprive us of our open handedness and our willingness to share the good things of life with others, cultivating and social fellowship which we remembered as one of life’s assets.

The “Tanks” at the Playhouse. – This week the film on exhibition is the “Fools of Fate,” The variety part is sustained by Miss B. Wright, contralto vocalist, in scena song and gipsy

“The Battle of the Somme” (1916 British film) – Source: Yorkshire Evening Post – Author: British government

encampment. There should be a great desire on the public’s part to witness the film on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, as it is one which attracts attention everywhere. “The Battle of the Ancre and the Advance of the Tanks” will prove the most in spiriting war picture the world has ever seen. It is a noble and wonderful record of the great autumn battle, and is even more interesting than the world-famous picture “The Battle of the Somme.” The pictures have been taken on the actual battlefield, and contain nothing whatever in the nature of faked or made-up scenes. The film is divided into four parts, and the boldness of the forward dash, and the manner in which the Tanks arrived to upset the German calculations are all shown in these wonderful pictures, which in the wealth of their subject excel anything the world has ever seen. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday the film is to be “The Miracle of Youth.” It is a picture version of the famous novel by Bret Harte, with Hobart Bosworth in the title role. The characters portrayed are exceptionally fine, the settings and photography being magnificent. Carino, the boy violinist, should prove an excellent variety programme, as he is a master of this sweet instrument.

Speed of Military Motor Vehicles – an order by the Scottish Command states:- With reference to the W.O. Letter, 92/2508 (A.G.3), dated 4th February 1915 (Command Order No. 309, dated 9th February 1915), attention has been drawn to the increasing number of fatal street accidents caused by Government cars or privately-owned cars driven by officers and men in uniform, and it is desired to impress on all ranks that the local speed rates must be strictly observed when travelling on duty. Special arrangements have been made for authorising cars to proceed at a speed in excess of the legal limit in case of extreme military urgency by the issue of a special written authority, and it is solely under this condition that any deviation in excess of the normal speed rates is permissible. Should any omission to observe this order render an officer or man liable to prosecution by the police authorities, and subsequently conviction, they will themselves pay any fines which may be incurred. The attention of all A.S.C. M.T. drivers should be drawn to paragraphs 6 to 10, appendix 27, Army Service Corps Regimental Standing Orders.

 

BAMBURGH

 

German Claims Descent from Grace Darling  –  At Liverpool a charge of making a false statement was preferred against Weximilian Eugene Backhans (37), and alleged German who posed as a Belgian. A detective stated that prisoner married an English woman 14 years ago, and claimed that his wife was a descendant of Grace Darling. There were three children. Before the war the prisoner was known as a German, and had boasted of what Germany could do to England. Evidence was given by an hotel manager and a waiter, who had known and worked with accused, that he was undoubtedly a German. The latter witness added he knew accused to be German, and once gave him a thrashing, “Only as recently as January, “said witness. “I met him. I am in the Volunteers, and said to him: Haven’t the interned you yet? I’ll see that they do. I’m not going to do volunteering if your at large.” Accused contended that he was born at Ostend. The magistrate said accused must go to gaol for three months.

 

FOOD RESTRICTIONS IN WORKHOUSE

 

The Local Government Board recommended that selection of rations be made involving the consumption of smaller quantities of flour, meat, and sugar, and a list of alternative articles substituted could be revised with the assistance of the medical officer. No dietary tables which appeared in excess of the Food Controller’s recommendations was to remain in force after 31st March. The relief in kind to the outdoor poor was also to be revised, while allowances to officers were to be a matter of arrangement between them and the Guardians.

Shown in the top right of this recipe book, is the WW1 Barley Bread recipe.

 

Mr Banks, Workhouse master, said that in the matter of meat, sugar, and flour, they were already within the Controller’s standard. The Medical Officer had pointed out the difficulties in getting substitutes in some instances, but he agreed that barley should take the place of flour bread. He had communicated with the baker, and he had promised to send up samples of barley bread. It was stated by the baker that he could make 1 lb. loves of barley, and if this suggestion was carried out it would bring down the allowances of bread to 4 lb. 2 ozs, per week.

In answer to Mr Peacocke the Master said that the children got fed according to individual requirements.

It was agreed to leave the matter in the hands of the Master and the Medical Officer.

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