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BERWICK ADVERTISER, 2ND APRIL 1926

03/04/2026 by Northumberland Archives

CHAPEL STREET’S UNHEALTHY AREA

A letter was read at the meeting of the Public Health Committee from the Town Clerk of Wallsend, enclosing a copy of a resolution passes by that Council requesting the Ministry of Health to promote legislation, in pursuance of which the Minister shall be enabled to contribute to the cost of providing houses for persons displaced in pursuance of an Order made under Part 11 of the Housing Act, 1925 (relating to unhealthy areas) on the same basis as in the case of contributions made under the Housing (Financial Provisions) Act 1924, and asking the Council to support the proposal by passing a similar resolution.

It was resolved of that having regard to the suggested scheme for the clearance of Chapel Street unhealthy are, the Chairman and Sanitary Inspector be requested to interview the officials of the Wallsend Corporation on the matter and on that in the meantime consideration of the question of passing a similar resolution be deferred.

The Committee further considered the official representation on the Medical Office of health relative to the Chapel Street unhealthy area. The Borough surveyor submitted a plan of the area and suggested layout thereof, and it was resolved that a special meeting of the Committee be held to further the matter.

BIRTH CONTROL

A letter was also read to the Committee from Edmonton E. P. C enclosing copies of resolutions passed by that Council urging the Minister of Health to issue instructions allowing Medical Officers in charge of maternity centres to give information on birth control in cases which they consider warrant such information being given, and requesting that the Council support their efforts to secure legislation on the subject. It was resolved that consideration of the matter be deferred until next meeting.

DUMPING OF REFUSE AT OLD QUARRY

A letter was read from a member of occupiers of properties in Shielfield Terrace, Tweedmouth, calling attention to a nuisance at the Old Quarry, caused by the dumping of refuse. It was resolved (i) that the Borough Surveyor be instructed to communicate with the owner of the Quarry on the matter and endeavour to obtain control thereof, in order that the nuisance might be remedied, and that the Town Clerk be instructed to inform, the complainants that the matter is having attention.

PLANS-INCLUDING THE NEW THEATRE

On the recommendation of the Works Committee, the following plans were approved; – Six outbuildings at Northumberland Avenue by Mr John Ayre for various owners; alterations at 4 The Crescent, Spittal, by Messrs Gray & Paterson from Mrs Pardum; alterations to dwellinghouse at Marygate by Messrs Gray & Paterson for Mr John Smith; garage at Springhill by Mr J. E. Carr for Mrs Hinsworth; boarding at Castle Bridge by and for Messrs Symington & Sons, telephone poles at Warkworth Terrace for G. P.O.; drainage at 46a West End, Tweedmouth, for Mr. R. Younger; drainage at 75 West End, Tweedmouth, by Mr D. Watson for Mr A. Shwam; drainage at 74-80 Main Street, Tweedmouth, by Mr D. Watson for the Misses I, and M. Logan; Washhouse at 5 Blakewell Lane, by Messrs Gray & Paterson for Mrs Rutherford; drainage at 108 Middle Street, Spittal, by Messrs A. C. Burn & Son for J. Bruce and others; Theatre at Hide Hill, by Schofield, Southport, for Berwick Theatre Limited, subject to certain details being arranged by the Borough Surveyor with the architect.

DANGEROUS CONDITION OF CHURCH STREET PROPERTY

The Borough Surveyor reported to the Works Committee that statutory notices had been served on the owner and occupiers of certain property being Nos 35 and 37 Church Street, relative to the dangerous condition of the building, and that he intended to demolish a portion of it so as to render it safe. It was resolved that the Borough Surveyor be instructed to proceed accordingly.

OPENING OF MUSEUM

The Reading Room Committee reported they had considered the question of reopening of the Museum and had resolved that consideration of the matter be deferred until the next meeting of the Committee. They had also resolved that the Town Clerk be instructed to arrange for the removal of the relics of the Great War to the Museum, and that they be exhibited on the part of the wall indicated by the Committee.

In moving the adoption of the report of the Committee, Councillor Dickinson (chairman) intimated the Museum was now open 9 am till dusk.

Councillor Stuart seconded but did not get a chance of finishing his remarks before Ald Bolus rose to speak.

Ald. Bolus- I think the Council and the town are deeply indebted to Councillor Dickinson and Mrs Dickinson, who have done so much to renovate and make the Museum a place in which one can now be greatly interested. I am sure the council and people in genera appreciate the work which has been done (Applause).

Councillor Stuart- That is just what I was going to say. (Laughter)

PLAYING FIELD FOR TWEEDMOUTH,

PROPOSAL TO PURCHASE BLAKEWELL GARDENS

The business occupying the Council in Committee was the consideration of three reports of a special committee of the Tweedmouth members in regard to the provision of a playing field at Tweedmouth.

The reports of the Committee meetings were as follows:-

At the meeting on 18^th September, 1925, when there were present, Councillor Lockhart (Chairman), Ald. Brewis, Councillor Adams,, the Town Clerk reported that only three of the owners of property in the vicinity of the Meadow Fields had assented to the field, if required, being used for recreation purposes. It was resolved that the Town Clerk be instructed to ascertain at what price the northern-most portion of the fields can be acquired, and, if necessary, to offer the sum of £200 per acre; and to ascertain if the land in Blakewell Gardens can be acquired, and at what price.

At the meeting on the 27^th October 1925, when there were present, Councillor Liddle (Chairman), Ald Brewis, Councillors Adams and Hay, the Town Clerk reported the present position of the proposal to provide a recreation ground at Tweedmouth. It was reported that lady Osbourne did not desire to sell the Meadows but was willing to assist the town in any way she could. It was resolved that the Town Clerk be instructed to enquire upon what terms Lady Osbourne would sell the Meadow Field north of the footpath leading from the Main Street, Tweedmouth.

At the meeting on the 24^th March 1926, when there were present Councillor Liddle (Chairman), Alderman Brewis, Councillors Adams and Hay, the Town Clerk read a letter from the Agent of Ord Estate informing the Committee that the owner cannot see her way to sell the meadow Filed, north of the footpath, leading from Main Street, Tweedmouth and also one from the Agent of Blakewell Gardens, asking the Council to make an offer, which the owner would be pleased to consider.

It was resolved (i) that the Council approve of the proposal to purchase the Blakewell Gardens as a Playing Field for Tweedmouth, subject to satisfactory terms being arranged; (ii) that the District Valuer be requested to make a valuation of the Gardens and that the borough Surveyor be instructed to prepare an estimate of the cost of converting the Gardens into a playing field; (iii) that the Committee be instructed to report back to the Council.

On the motion of Councillor Liddle, seconded by Alderman Brewis, the Council resolved that the proceedings of the Committee be approved.

BERWICK ADVERTISER, 4TH FEBRUARY 1926

06/02/2026 by Northumberland Archives

Howick Hall, the Northumberland home of Earl and Countess Grey, was partly gutted by fire early on Tuesday morning.

Earl Grey discovered the outbreak about 3am in a room above his bedroom. He gave the alarm promptly and saw to the safety of Countess Grey and his daughter, the lady Elizabeth, the only daughter at home. Countess Grey has been confined to her room with cold for several days, and she was found accommodation in the servants’ quarters in the west wing which, with the east wing, was saved from the flames.

Earl Grey, the lady Elizabeth, and the members of the household staff and estate worked heroically with the fire appliances available to save the Hall, but the flames spread too rapidly, and by the time the Fire and Rescue Brigade from Ashington arrived nothing much remained of the main hall but its stone walls.

FIRE FIGHTERS DELAYED

The Ashington Brigade under Chief Officer F. P. Mills had an unlucky experience. The fog was so thick they could only crawl along the roads, and the fire had been burning three hours at least when they arrived at the hall. Earl Grey believes that most of the valuable pictures and other works of art on the ground floor have been saved, but the drawing room, the breakfast room, the Chinese room, the Italian room, the library, the central and inner halls and eight bedrooms and dressing rooms have been destroyed. Classic volumes were saved from the library, and the Italian room, distinguished for its wood carving and panelling, was not involved in the conflagration before the major portion of its removable contents were placed in safety.

The utmost sympathy is felt for Earl and Countess Grey in the loss of their beautiful home. They had intended going to London on Monday, nut had cancelled their arrangements in view of the Countess’s indisposition.

It is singular that the Northumberland homes of families bearing the same distinguished names should both have been destroyed by fire. Fallodon, the seat of Viscount Grey Fallodon, it will be recalled, was burnt to the ground on May 2^nd, 1917.

Beside a water heating apparatus on the top floor, it is believed, the flames originated, and they had obtained a very good hold before earl Grey was aroused by the noise of burning material.

The butler, Mr J. J. Garlick, who has been at Howick only six months, and a chauffeur named Lowery, who were among the first to respond to the clanging of the alarm bell, tell how Earl Grey organised the fire-fighting force of the hall which included a manual engine and superintended operations in the removal of the more valuable works of art and furniture.

“t was amazing how quickly it spread. By half-past three the flames were right through the rook,” said the butler. The water supply was good and the hoses were brought to bear on the flames at every available point, but the destruction went on space until in a short time the whole of the top floor made a beacon light in a mist-enshrouded countryside, so that volunteers came streaming in from all parts of the estate. As soon as it was realised that the fire could not be brought under control Earl Grey directed the removal of the furnishings and valuables from the ground floor, and this work was accomplished with great expedition by members of the household staff and volunteers from the estate, and the villages of Howick and Craster.

“We might not have been able to have saved the contents of the ground floor even, “ said Mr J. Wright, the head gardener, “ only the two huge cisterns containing thousands of gallons of water, at the top of the house, came right down, and subdued the flames for a quarter of an hour or so, just long enough to give us time to remove the valuables,” He regretted that two beautiful tapestries in the inner hall were amongst the works of art lost, and it was hoped at one time that the Italian room, which was distinguished by notable carvings, might be saved. It was burnt out to a shell, however.

In the inner hall, destroyed by fire were two large pictures by Northcote- “The Disobedient Prophet,” and “Daniel in the Lions’ Den.” In other rooms were also valuable paintings and portraits, including Sir A. Calcott’s “Rotterdam”; Martin’s “Nymph Bathing”; Thompson’s “Lady Mary Wood as a Child”; the late “Earl Grey,” by Lawrence; “The Emperor Napoleon,” painted during the Hundred Days. The bees on the frame were taken from the Emperor’s Throne. Northcote’s “The last Sleep of Argyle”; Lawrence’s “The late Countess Grey, with Lady Durham and Lady E. Bulteel as Children,” and others.

BERWICK JOURNAL 30TH JULY, 1925

01/08/2025 by Northumberland Archives

Mrs Philipson’s Great Welcome at Unionist Picnic at Haggerston

Amidst delightful surroundings – Haggerston Castle – the annual picnic of the Berwick-on-Tweed Conservative and Unionist Polling District was held on Thursday. Once more through the kindness of Capt. And Mrs C. D. Leyland, these grounds were placed at the disposal of the organisers, along with a field for the tea amusements, sports, etc., and proved just as popular as ever. The weather although not of the best for picnicking – a haze hovering overhead almost all the time – kept up and was just nice and cool for walking. As usual, many of the company, which included from Coldstream, Norham, Bamburgh, Seahouses, Berwick, etc., visited the flower garden, and some of the beautiful walks. Numbers also visited the Tower, which proved most interesting and instructive.

AMUSEMENTS

There was a nice collection of amusements to suit all, both old and young, and keen interest was evinced at various stalls. The treasure hunt, which proved a huge success, had no less than 400 competitions in 2 hours, and those in charge had as exceedingly busy time, for, mark you, there was a real treasure for the winners, the 1^st receiving a £1 note as 1^st prize; 2^nd, 10/-; 3^rd. 6/-; 4^th, 4/-. Another well patronised stall was the fishing pond, and here you were allowed 1 minute to procure your catch, and this in practically most cases was too short for the keen competitors. The target golf received many patrons, and here to gain the prize was more difficult than at first anticipated. The ever-popular hoopla received its full quota, and the coconut shies were not forgotten.

Haggerston Castle, 1930’s. Ref No: ZNG XIX

SPORTS

These were conducted on excellent lines and good entries were received for all. Strange to say the lady who won the first prize in the ladies’ race has done so far 3 years in succession, namely since the picnic was held. In the 100 yards race, some of the entrants had passed their youth, but nevertheless they put up a good show, and added enjoyment to the on-lookers. The ladies’ tug-of-war brought out 6 teams, and keen tussles were seen in all, the final having to be pulled twice. The boys’ race was well contested and brought out some good runners.

CONCERT

One of the tit-bits of this function is the concert, and this year this item was just as popular as ever. The programme was submitted by the Plus Fours Concert party from Coldstream. This was their first appearance outside of Coldstream since they had been formed, and we are quite sure that it is only a beginning of a company which will be more heard about. The artistes all belong to Coldstream and are purely amateur, but this latter fact does not underrate them at all. They are all artistes of no mean repute, and with more public appearances will do exceptionally well. Their programme was of a most entertaining character, and the large crowd which had assembled thoroughly enjoyed every item. The concert could not have been held in more delightful surroundings, in front of the Castle, where the roses bloomed in great profusion Seats were placed on the lawn, and in excellent position for the audience to hear. At the close of the concert, Mrs Scott Briggs proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the artistes, and this was heartily responded to.

MRS PHILIPSON’S ADDRESS

As Mrs Phillipson rose, she was greeted with cheers. Her address, which was splendidly and distinctly delivered was listened to with rapt attention, punctuated with rounds of applause. Dealing with political matters Mrs Philipson mentioned the Widows’ Pensions Bill which had been read for the third time on Wednesday, with full agreement of the whole House. The passing of the Bill meant that widows with a family could keep their children at school until 16 and receive an allowance, whereas before as soon as the children reached the age of 14 years the allowance was withdrawn. Ex-service men’s dependants were also safeguarded with this bill.

The Government, remarked Mrs Philipson had had a very busy session and had gone through an enormous amount of work. “Our Government and Party” are keeping their promises. They were still faced wit the great problem of unemployment, and it was unfair to say they were doing nothing to alleviate it. The number of men who had obtained employment under relief schemes directly assisted by the Government in Feb, last was 117,963. The ship building industry which was very hard pressed, had been again guarantees of security, and certain work had also been undertaken by the Railway Coys., whereby 34 million pounds would be involved. The Home Secretary, too, was taking up the undesirable Alien question, and this would help unemployment and housing questions. It was all nonsense to say that the Government was doing nothing to help unemployment. Mrs Philipson also spoke on the health question, embracing education, schools, etc., and said that a survey was being carried out in the urban areas, and there would soon be a similar survey in rural areas, when any improvements or alternations necessary, would be put right. Then there was the food question, which was no easy one, and was a serious industrial problem.

She was very proud to be their member, and she was one of those who supported the Government. Capt. Leyland had said she was an optimist. Perhaps she was. Well, she knew the men connected with the coal industry did not want a strike, because they realised it would take 10 years to recover from its effects. Mr Baldwin, by not interfering between the workmen and the masters, and allowing them to settle their own quarrels, was doing the right thing, as by co-operation, and goodwill the best results would be obtained. (Applause). She believed in the character and uprightness of the British workmen and knew it would help us through the present crisis. Continuing Mrs Philipson said she was a very small member of that Government, and Mr Baldwin was a very busy man, but sometimes she had an opportunity of speaking to hi, and once she had told him that there was one place in the north which had faith in him. They, too, would remember when Mr Baldwin passed through Berwick Station. One day the Premier had asked “How are they all at Berwick?” Well, when she got back to London she would tell him, “they are all very well.”

She was glad to have been present and to have seen them all. It gave her wonderful encouragement to have their affect on as well as being their member. (Applause).

One of the most interesting events in the afternoon’s programme was the presentation to Mr W. J. Dixon, who had acted as Agent for 14 years, and this was made by Ald. D. H. W. Askew. Mr Askew said it was a very great pleasure to make the presentation to Mr Dixon for the valuable and good work he had done for 14 years in this constituency as their Agent. He had done admirable work as an agent and had also been a long and active and willing worker for the whole constituency. He regretted very much that the Chairman, Col. Scott, was unable to be present; he had had much intercourse with Mr Dixon and he knew the really good and useful work he had done. Col. Scott very much regretted that the work of a long-standing engagement forbade him to be present. Continuing, Mr Askew said it was safe before 1800 to consider North Northumberland a Conservative stronghold. Suddenly a Liberal candidate was brought into the field in the person of Lord Grey, who won the seat from the then Duke of Northumberland, one of the very best men; and the seat [assed away to Liberalism. It was in 1910 that Mr Dixon was appointed as principal agent and since then a great change had come over the constituency.

Mr Dixon got into touch with a large constituency, but no election had been held to test the strength of the party, and to show the valuable work done by Mr Dixon until Lord Grey gave up the seat, and Sir Francis Blake was elected. The next candidate was Capt. Philipson who stood as a Coalition candidate, and was backed up by the Conservative Party, and who unfortunately lost his seat. Hi wife came gallantly along to the aid of the Conservative Party, and she was returned as the Conservative member. Mr Dixon had had the honour of having 3 splendid victories on 3 occasions and anyone could be proud of such. Continuing, he said Mr Dixon was held in great esteem and regard throughout the large constituency. He had taken a leading part in local affairs, having been a member of Berwick Town Council, Chairman of Board of Education, and was Chairman when it was merged into County. He took a leading part in all organisations and had something to do with almost everything in War work. He had played a public part and it was only to show such recognition that the many subscribers wish Mr Dixon to accept this silver cup and to show the great regard in which he was held. He had now come to an end of his active work as political agent, but he would be able to help us yet. Mr Askew then said he had great pleasure on behalf of the many subscribers to present Mr Dixon with a silver flower bowl and wallet of Treasury notes. (Applause).

Mr Dixon on rising received a great ovation. He thanked Mr Askew very much for the kind words he had said about him and his friends for subscribing towards the handsome presents; he would prize them most heartily. His aim had always been to win the seat for Conservatisers and he had succeeded in doing so. He was now back, he said, to the position he began in – a member of the Executive Finance Committee-and he thanked the Association for putting him in that position. Once again Mr Dixon thanked them for the handsome presents they had given him. (Applause).

Capt. Leyland who said that he did not wish to keep them longer, as Mrs Philipson wished to get down amongst them, said he had to thank the 2 Committees – ladies and gentlemen-for the splendid organisation. It was, he said, entirely due to them that the outing had been such a huge success; and it was through them that Mrs Philipson had come to address them. You will agree with me, he said, that it has been a huge success, and we have had even better weather than usual, and it has not actually rained. I will ask you to give 3 hearty cheers for the workers. ( Cheers).

Mrs Philipson then called for 3 hearty cheers for Capt. Leyland, and these were heartily given.

During the afternoon selections were rendered by Berwick Pipe Band and were much enjoyed. The arrangements for the picnic were excellently carried out, and the tea was up to the standard of past years.

There were between 1500 and 2000 present.

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