Berwick

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, 16 April 1915

08/03/201817/04/2015 by Northumberland Archives

AT BERWICK

Word was received about 9.30 o’clock last night that hostile airships were in the vicinity and had dropped bombs on Blyth. Precautionary methods were immediately taken. The electric light power was immediately switched off at the Urban Electric Works, and house-holders were ordered to extinguish all lights and the town was soon plunged into complete darkness. When the picture houses closed the people who had composed the audiences experienced considerable difficulty in reaching their homes owing to the intense darkness. Probably High Street was the most difficult to navigate and much good humored chaff could be heard as people tried to evade each other in the inky darkness. Fortunately, Berwick was not visited by the Zeppelin.

World War One: the German zeppelin Viktoria Luise emerging from its hangar. Wellcome Library, London. Copyrighted work available under Creative Commons Attribution only licence CC BY 4.0. — World War One: the German zeppelin Viktoria Luise emerging from its hangar.
Wellcome Library, London. Copyrighted work available under Creative Commons Attribution only licence CC BY 4.0.

ST. ANDREW’S NURSING CLASS BERWICK

Results of Examination.

Social meeting and Presentation.

On Thursday evening the members of the Berwick St Andrew’s Nursing Class held a social meeting in the Long Room of the Corn Exchange.

The hall was gaily decorated with patriotic flags, flowers, and evergreens, and there was a touch of enthusiasm in all the preparations which at once engendered in the guests that feeling of welcome and sociability so essential in making such a gathering a success. Those present readily indulged in the games and dances, and, after an hour’s enjoyment in this way, were just in the right mood to receive the more formal part of the evening’s proceedings with a spirit which made all feel quite at ease.

The Mayor (Councillor Wilson) was accompanied to the chair by the Mayoress, the Sheriff, Dr and Mrs Maclagan, Miss Anthony, Matron of the Borough Hospital, and Miss Gradon, convenor of the Class Committee.

THE CLASS WORK.

On behalf of Miss Anthony, the Mayor read the following report on the origin and work of the class during the winter:-

http://wellcomeimages.org/indexplus/image/L0009198.html — World War One Navy nurses training at Chatham. Credit: Wellcome Library, London. Ref: L0009198

Very soon after war was declared, the Mayor asked me, would I be willing to teach bandaging, bed-making, etc., to about twenty ladies, so that they might be useful in the event of temporary hospitals being opened for wounded. I consented. This was the beginning of our ambulance class. Owing to unforeseen circumstances, the classes were not started until 14th September. At the first meeting twenty eight members were enrolled. The classes grew rapidly, chiefly owing to the enthusiasm of the members, and Miss Cockburn, who was appointed class secretary. At the end of September there were 42 names on the roll. It became necessary to seek a larger room. We secured the Parochial Hall, but owing to the arrival of wounded, we had to vacate it after three weeks. Captain Kimberley very kindly granted us the use of the Army Hall. Our next step was a decision to try for the “Home Nursing and Hygiene Certificate of St Andrew’s Ambulance Association.”…..

Thirty-seven sat for the examination, and all have obtained certificates…..

https://www.flickr.com/photos/whatsthatpicture/6238325023/ — Postcard of World War One hospital ward, December 1914. Probably Le Havre region.

….In reviewing the report, the Mayor said he had no idea that the Nursing Class had assumed the size which it had, and he was glad to think that out of the little conversation which he had had with Miss Anthony prior to the commencement of the class so much good had accrued. He was delighted to know that success had attended their efforts, and that everyone who had gone up for examination had obtained certificate. He understood that they had worked very hard during the winter, and he had to congratulate both the Doctor and Miss Anthony on the results. There was, unfortunately, a great deal of fighting to be done at the front yet, and he was afraid that there would be many wounded soldiers in consequence. Berwick was ready and willing to do its share, and he believed that the services of some of the members of the class would be needed. Not only were they equipping themselves to be of use in this direction, but the knowledge gained would be of advantage to them in many ways. he trusted that all of them would maintain their connection with the class during the summer and next winter, would go up for the medallion of the Association……………………..

This Week in World War One, 2nd April 1915

08/03/201803/04/2015 by Northumberland Archives

2ND APRIL 1915

SAD AFFAIR AT BERWICK

Young Soldier Accidentally Shot

Lance Corporal in Court

Discharged without a stain on his character

Marshall Meadows Bay, close to where Private Douglas was shot. © Copyright Richard Webb and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence

At Berwick Police Court on Thursday, David Oswald, Lance-Corporal in the 2/10th Royal Scots, was charged with the manslaughter of Andrew Douglas, Private in the 2/10th Royal Scots, by shooting him dead with a shot from a rifle at Berwick on Tuesday 30th March. Mr E. W. Stiles, solicitor, appeared for the accused. The Chief Constable said the men were on guard together and the accused had been giving the men musketry drill. The accused had forgot that the rifle was loaded and after shooting the bolt home the rifle went off and killed Douglas. It was in the interests of the regiment, officers, and accused that the case was brought there. He was of the opinion that it was a pure accident and he would ask the Magistrates to discharge the accused and enable him to leave the court clear in the eyes of the world.

Private John Bryce said he was on outpost duty with the deceased and Lance-Corporal Oswald. Oswald was giving them musketry drill. The rifle held by Oswald went off and Douglas fell shot. Oswald then ran forward to the deceased. Oswald was greatly distressed over the occurrence, because he was great friends with the deceased. The witness was quite sure it was an accident.

The Chief Constable said he was present at the inquest the previous day. Oswald gave evidence and after a most exhaustive enquiry the verdict of accidental death was brought in. The Police had made every enquiry and they were of opinion that it was an accident, and on those grounds he asked the accused be dismissed.

By Mr Stiles – I am quite satisfied that the whole affair was a pure accident.

Mr Stiles – I do not think it is necessary for me to add anything. The Police have followed the proper course in following the line they have taken. Everyone sympathises with the accused and the regiment of which he is a member.

The Mayor (addressing accused) – The Bench have considered the case and discharge you. They fully sympathise with the position you are placed in and hope you will not take this too much to heart sad as it is, but remember you have other duties to attend to. You are discharged without any stain on your character whatever.

WOOLER

Madame Marie Levante’s orchestra of ladies gave a performance before a crowded house in the Archbold Hall on Thursday evening last.

A dance is announced to take place next week in aid of Dr Barnardo’s Homes.

On Tuesday morning five young men from the country districts left Wooler station to join the colours. Good luck to them.

A company of the troops stationed at Alnwick were expected to visit Wooler at the beginning of the week on a route march, but at the time of writing they have not arrived. It would perhaps stir the place up if we had a visit from the boys in khaki, and might help recruiting. Wooler has certainly done well, but could still do better in the matter of recruits.

Simnel Cake advert — Advert for Simnel Cake taken from the Berwick Advertise 2nd April 1915

By the Way

Porridge Penny Per Plate

The Military Recreation Rooms are being greatly taken advantage of every night. Light refreshments are provided after eight o’clock at a merely nominal fee, and it is interesting to note that there has been a great demand for porridge by the Scotsmen. Porridge was duly provided, and judging by the way it disappears each evening, it is a very highly appreciated dish. A short, religious service has been started on the Sunday evenings. The various ministers of the Borough are to take their turn in presiding over the meeting. A number of songs and solos are given, followed by a passage from the Scriptures and a closing prayer. There is no sermon. ( ) This space is reserved for remarks of relief!

The Tale of a Dog

A Border Collie dog — A dog was offered as a raffle proze in aid of the Belgian Relief Fund. Image from Pixabay

Almost everyone at this time is anxious to do something to assist those, who through the war, have been placed in distressful circumstances. The ways of raising money for such a purpose are many and varied, but the one I heard of the other day takes some beating.

‘Tis the tale of a dog, and runs thus:- Some gentlemen in local “grain” centres decided to raffle a dog on behalf of the Belgian Relief Fund. A number of tickets were sold, and the Committee ultimately agreed, privately of course, not to draw for the winning man, but to award the dog to a gentleman who they knew would absolutely refuse to keep a dog. This gentleman was told he was the “lucky” man, but he told the Committee to raffle the dog again. This happened three times. But now comes the funny part of the business. A fourth man won the dog and decided to keep it. He applied to the Committee for the dog; the Committee applied to the gentleman who promised to give them the dog; the gentleman informed the Committee that the dog was poisoned one month before the raffle took place, and that they had been raffling for an imaginary dog. However, all’s well that ends well, and the fourth winner was sporting enough to take the matter in good spirit, more so when he heard that the Belgian Relief Fund would benefit to the extent of from £16 to £20.

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