Scremerston Coal Company

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, 1 October 1915

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Berwick Advertiser title 1915

 

BERWICK ADVERTISER, 1 OCTOBER 1915

 

THE SCREMERSTON FLOCK DISPERSION

A NOTABLE SALE

 

On Friday, Messrs John Swan and Sons sold at Heatherytops Farm, Berwick, the noted flock of Border Leicester sheep, which have been got together in recent years by the Scremerston Coal Company. The sale was rendered necessary by the fact that the three farms – Heathery Tops, Oxford Farm, and Sandbank – which the Company presently occupy in the neighbourhood of their mining operations, are to be given up, and the further fact, that Mr J. Evelyn Carr, the managing director of the Company is presently with the forces in France. Mr Carr, very pluckily, shortly after war was declared, joined the ranks of the London Scottish, and spent a considerable time of last winter in the trenches. He got twice wounded early in the year, and was home for a considerable time recuperating. Immediately he got better, the old martial spirit revived, and he is again on the other side of the Channel, fighting for his country – this time in the commissioned ranks of the Sherwood Foresters. Everyone admires his plucky action and high public spirit, but in the circumstances it was necessary that his home responsibilities should be considerably curtailed. While he will retain his active association with the colliery, it was considered desirable to give up the farms, which like the colliery are all on the estate of the Greenwich Hospital (practically the Admiralty), and to dispose of the pure-bred sheep. The decision has been received with a good deal of regret in the district, for Mr Carr and the Company have proved not only excellent neighbours, but have done not a little to promote the cause of pure-stock breeding in their northern corner of Northumberland.

 

SHIP ASHORE NEAR THE LONGSTONE

 

On Saturday morning, during foggy weather, the Leith steamer Britannia went ashore on the Crumstane Rock, near the Longstone, Farne Islands. The Seahouses lifeboat went out to her assistance, but the crew did not leave the vessel. Lloyd’s Seahouses agent telegraphed on Monday that the Britannia had been abandoned. The vessel is expected to become a total wreck. The crew landed in their own boats and proceeded to Berwick. The Britannia is one of the Leith-Hull line of trading steamers, the managers of which are Messers Currie and Co., Leith. She was bound from Newcastle to Leith with a general cargo. The vessel became a total wreck and disappeared on Sunday evening.

Farne Islands as seen from Seahouses. Tony Hisgett, Birmingham - Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic License.
Farne Islands as seen from Seahouses. Tony Hisgett, Birmingham – Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic License.

 

DAMAGE TO ROADS BY RAIN

 

It was reported that Holy Island had been visited with a downfall of rain so heavy in character that considerable damage was caused, especially to the roads. These were quite washed out. The road material lying ready to be applied would help matters a little. It was proposed to apply this season if possible 60 tons 1½ inches machine tarred stones, and the Surveyor stated that a future report would be submitted as to the method of their repair and maintenance.

Early 1900s photograph of Castle Street, Holy Island. © Berwick Record Office - BRO 0426-1072.
Early 1900s photograph of Castle Street, Holy Island. © Berwick Record Office – BRO 0426-1072.

 

The Surveyor explained that at present everything was being taken to the Island by means of carts as they did not wish to run any risks owing to the war. The rain did great damage, lasting 2½ hours. The roads which were not in very good condition before were badly washed out. At a future date when things were more normal he would be pleased to propound a scheme to the Council for the better maintenance of the roads.

The Surveyor’s suggestion was agreed to.

 

BURGLARS ENTER TWEEDMOUTH INN

 

About 3 a.m. on Monday the King’s Arms Inn, West End, Tweedmouth, occupied by Mrs Norris, were burglarously entered. The marauders obtained entrance by breaking a pane of glass in one of the downstairs windows, releasing the catch, and raising the bottom half of the frame. Five large bottles of whisky were stolen and about 8s worth of coppers. Not content with this the intruders obtained a pint glass and had a drink of rum and left the rum cask running. The prints of bare feet were plainly discernable on the seats below the window pointing to the fact that the robbery was not a drunken spree, but one which had been prepared. Two soldiers and a woman were seen in the vicinity of the house about midnight, and we understand two soldiers, who are in custody at the Barracks, are under suspicion.

Early 1900s photograph, looking towards the West End, Tweedmouth from the Berwick Bridge (Old Bridge). Unknown photographer.
Early 1900s photograph, looking towards the West End, Tweedmouth from the Berwick Bridge (Old Bridge). Unknown photographer.

 

This Week in World War One, 20 August 1915

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Berwick Advertiser title 1915

 

BERWICK ADVERTISER, 20 AUGUST 1915

 

PECULIAR CAPTURE OF A ROACH IN THE TWEED

 

A correspondent, writing in the “Northern Echo” on the paragraph which recently appeared in our columns regarding a roach jumping out of the river into a salmon fisher’s cobble near Horncliffe House, points out- The spot where the roach was thus “caught” unawares is quite an ideal one for that fish. The waters are still and deep, with an abundance of weeds, trees and bushes on the edge of the river. The tidal water will contain very little, if any, salt in it at Horncliffe,as the Tweed does not flow much above there, and it may only be a little brackish at the top of the tide, and will soon run out when the tide sets in. Besides, the writer has had some of his best creels of yellow freshwater trout at

The Roach by Eleazar Albin 1690-1742 - English naturalist and watercolourist illustrator.
The Roach by Eleazar Albin 1690-1742 – English naturalist and watercolourist illustrator.

Horncliffe, and a mile below at the Union Chain Suspension Bridge at Scotch New Water Ford. Free trout fishing may be indulged in on the Tweed as far as two miles below the Chain Bridge at West Ord ford. So if trout can live so far down in the tidal waters why not roach. Indeed, I have seen large yellow trout caught in the nets as far down as Berwick Bridge, about a mile from the sea. Large numbers of roach have been netted in recent years at Twizel, near the mouth of the Till, where it enters the Tweed. The roach is a poor mean fish so far as eating goes, but he is handsome and strong, also he will afford the angler capital sport when he rises at the fly which he commonly does about the months of August and September, both boldly and freely. Roach are very prolific. In the ovarium of an ordinary sized roach were counted no less than 25,000 eggs. Fishery Boards are waging a strong crusade against the roach, for wherever they take up their abode trout fishing suffers and the streams are depleted to an alarming extent. Therefore during the summer months, on the Tweed, thousands have been destroyed. The Tees also has been netted regularly during recent years by the water bailiffs for the destruction of roach, dace, chub, and many other useless “coarse” fish.

 

SCREMERSTON

 SUNDAY SCHOOL EXCURSION

 

Though public excursions of pleasure seem generally out of place in face of the cares and anxieties of the time it is no less generally felt that where possible the usual arrangements for the pleasure of the little ones should be carried through. It was, therefore, resolved that the children attending the Scremerston Church Sunday School should have their usual summer trip, and this was held on Saturday last. A thunderstorm and heavy rain delayed the starting of the trip for three-quarters of an hour, during which time the children took shelter in the Church, but soon after a start was made the rain cleared off and for the rest of the day the weather conditions were all that could be desired. The party travelled in carts kindly lent by Messrs T. and J. Jobling, and the Scremerston Coal Company,

The sand dunes on Goswick Beach where the children from Scremerston went on their Sunday School trip - Stuart Meek - Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic license.
The sand dunes on Goswick Beach where the children from Scremerston went on their Sunday School trip –
Stuart Meek – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic license.

to Goswick fishery kindly place at their disposal by Mr M.C. Robertson, who had also erected swings for the pleasure of the youngsters. Various games were indulged in until tea time when an abundant supply of cakes and tea formed an important feature in the afternoon’s proceedings. After tea a small memento of the occasion was presented to each child by two young ladies in national costumes, Miss E. M. Lightfoot, whose white dress was trimmed with red roses, and draped with a Union Jack representing England; while Miss A. M. Stokes wore the actual fete day costume of a French fisher girl. On the call of the Vicar, hearty cheers for the Allied Nations were raised by the interested children. Before starting for home Mr Thompson, who has for some years taken an active part in the work of the Sunday school, called upon the children to express in the usual way their thanks to the Vicar and Mrs Lightfoot for so successfully arranging and carrying through the day’s enjoyment, to the representatives of the Allied Nations for distributing the toys and otherwise assisting at the treat, to Mrs Thompson and Miss E. Mowitt for the preparation of the tea, and to Mr and Mrs Robertson for their permission to visit the Fishery and their general interest and help in the afternoon’s proceedings. A packet of sweets for consumption on the journey between Scremerston and Goswick was most kindly presented to each child by Mr and Mrs W.J. Blackett. After an afternoon of very general enjoyment the children reached home safely and happily a little after eight o’clock.

 

Berwick Advertiser 20 August 1915. Birds Custard Advert
Berwick Advertiser 20 August 1915. Birds Custard Advert

 

NATIONAL REGISTRATION IN BERWICK

Influx of Visitors Complicate Matters

The task of numbering the people in the Borough of Berwick under the National Registration Act was carried out on Sunday last, and already a considerable quantity of the forms have been duly collected by the band of ladies and gentlemen who so willingly devoted their services gratuitously to the task. It was expected that the whole of the papers in the Borough would be collected by Wednesday. The arrangements made under the superintendence of Mr James Gibson, acting Town Clerk, have worked smoothly and well. The enumerators in a number of cases had difficulties to overcome in securing a proper and intelligently filled up form, and in several instances had to lend personal assistance to obtain the various details. During the week-end, too, there was a large influx of visitors into the town, and this had the effect of complicating and rendering more arduous the duties of the enumerators. The second and no less important duty of classifying and arranging the details of the Register has yet to be undertaken, but already Mr Gibson has set about the bare preliminaries of this. The enumerators who have distributed and collected the forms will take part in the work, and Mr Gibson is waiting to see what other ladies and gentlemen will come forward to lend a hand in the duties. The forms have to be arranged into 46 occupational groups for males and 30  for females, while there are also nine age groups, each sub-divided, stating whether the lady is unmarried, married, or a widow.With the completion of the collections of the forms the first step will be to separate visitors from a distance who were resident in the Borough last Sunday, and dispatch the forms to the various districts where the visitors have their permanent residences. With the completion of the details each registered person receives a certificate certifying that he or she has been duly registered, along with their code number. Special buff forms have to be filled up for those males or females who are skilled workers. These are retained until instructions are received as to how they are to be dealt with. A pink coloured form has also to be prepared of those males whose ages are from 18 to 40, and have not completed their 41st birthday, these being for the special use of recruiting authorities.

Mr Gibson will deal with the preliminary work in the Town Clerk’s Office, but when the more strenuous and important part comes to be undertaken he will have his staff accommodated in the ante room at the entrance to the Town hall, where more adequate room will be found. The Registrar General expresses the hope that the whole of the details will be completed by Saturday, 4th September.