Extracts from

Wellington Journal & Shrewsbury News

1941

relating to Broseley and District

Broseley Local History Society

2007

5th  January 1941

BROSELEY.

DANCE.—Over 100 people attended the dance, held in the Victoria Institute on Saturday evening. Mr. A. Perkins was the M.C. Refreshments were served by Mesdames H. Hall and G. N. Ball.  A competition for a ton of coal on behalf of the Services' Christmas Appeals Fund was won by Mrs. P. Preece (Jackfield).

WHIST. The local Labour Party held a whist drive on Boxing night, when a seasonable spirit prevailed.- Mr. G. N. Ball was the M.C., and Mrs. S. Roberts presented prizes as follows: 1 Mrs. S. Roberts, 2 Mrs. H. Hall,. 3 Mrs. H. Seabury, lowest score Mrs. A. Pountney; 1 the Rev.. C. S. Jackson, 2 Mr. R. Burns, 3 Mr. R. Perks, lowest score Mr. L. Suddon.

MISS W. B. HARRIS MARRIED.—The wedding took place at the Methodist Church on December 24, of Miss. Winifred Beddow Harris, daughter of the late Mr and Mrs. George Harris, of 1, Swan. Street, and Mr. George William Holmes, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Holmes, 128, Church Road, Sheldon, Birmingham. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. T. W. Earls, of Madeley. The service was choral. The bride's sister, Mrs. A. Harris, was at the organ. The bride, who was given away by her brother, Mr. A. Harris, wore a blue tweed suit, and carried a bouquet of bronze chrysanthemums. The bridesmaids were her sister, Miss A. Harris, and her niece, Miss Marjorie Jones. They wore fawn costumes, with hats to match, and carried bouquets of bronze chrysanthemums and carnations. The best man was Mr. E. Harris, and the groomsmen were Mr. J. Harris and Mr. J. Jones.

WHIST. A whist drive arranged by the local Labour Party was held in the Town Hall, on Tuesday evening. Mr. R. Perks was M.C. and the prizewinners were: 1 Mrs. J. Casey. 2 Mrs.  A. Fielding; 1 Mr. J. Lloyd, 2 Mr. T.

DANCE. — The New Year's Eve dance organised by the Church of England school was held in the Town Hall. There was a packed attendance and the M.C.'s were Messrs. C. Southern and H. Watkins. The prize presented by Miss Potts (The Deanery) was won by Mr. W. Meredith and Miss Meredith; prize presented by Mrs N. George, Miss A. Humphries and Miss I. Bagley, who also won the prize for the "statue dance." As the clock chimed mid-night dancing ceased and the rector, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, conducted a short service. Prayers were offered and carols were sung. Refreshments were served by Miss Potts, Mrs. A. Lloyd; Mrs. H. Watkins, Mrs. D. Cope, Miss E. Jackson and Mrs. N. George. The proceeds were in aid of the Lord Mayor of Birmingham's Distress Fund.

METHODIST SUNDAY SCHOOL.—The prize distribution took place on Sunday, Mr. C. R. Jones presided, and Mr. F. Aston (choirmaster), assisted by Mr. F. Harris (Secretary), distributed book prizes to 104 scholars. Round "O" prizes were presented in addition to "First prizes." Recipients of awards were: Molly Denstone, Beryl Colley, Elsie Pace, Vera Colley. Harry Pugh, Cyril Rowe, Leslie Pugh, Tom Sandland, John Barnsley, John Colley, Donald Bowen, Ron Chard, Betty Rhodes and Charles Rhodes. First prizes were won by Margaret Meredith, Margaret Bebb, Mary Evans, Jean Williams, Ann Bebb, Jeanette Rhodes. Fred Sandland, Laurence Humphries. Phillip Matthews, John Williams. Eric Fielding, Billy Newbound, Clifford Robinson, Cyril Robinson, Elsie Perks, Joan Skelton, Richard Rhodes. Kenneth Robinson. Gerald Chard, Alan Robinson, Bernard Miles, Muriel Miles. Kathleen Hellowell, Jean Roberts, Margaret Oliver, Mavis Young, Margaret Oakley, Joyce Robinson, Alice Armstrong, Irene Gittings, Daisy Hill, Brenda Heighway. Frank Lowe, John Roberts, Len Hellowell, John Rhodes, Cecil Morris. Cyril Taylor, Kenneth Morris, June Garbett, Anne Kettle, Margaret Pace, Roland Oliver George Evans. Second prizes Betty Collier, Barbara  Garbett, Chrissie Picken, Marjorie Goodall, Audrey Smith, Connie Edgington, Sheila Snow, Nancy Thomas, Gertie Boden, Turley Oakley, Marjorie Bowen, Barbara Harvey, Terence Smith, John Russell, William Goodall, Leslie Harris, Stanley Hill, Clifford Hill, Geoffrey Sherwood, Kenneth Bryan, Reginald Taylor, Maureen Goodwin, Irene Sherwood, Bernice Fielding, Malcolm Miles, Graham Oliver, Colin Humphreys. John Hatton, John Gallier; third prizes, Pat Smith, Gwynneth Farlow, Audrey Humphries, Irene Humphries, Jean Anderson, Jacqueline Wilkes, Jean Perks, Iris Aston, Frank Clanton, Harold Garbett, Herbert Harvey, Michael Picken, John Thomas, David Picken, Linda Perks, and David Bebb.

JACKFIELD

SERVING MEN REMEMBERED.— Through the generosity of the people of Jackfield everyone from the parish serving with the Forces received a gift this Christmas of 10s. from the local Navy, Army and Air Force Fund. A committee was elected some time ago to manage the fund, and had as its chairman the rector, the Rev. F. J. R. Mason; hon. treasurer, Mr. J. Hearn; hon. secretary, Mr. J. Harrison. In addition each local member of the Forces has received a woolly comfort from the women's section of the local branch of the British Legion, the articles having been made by the members themselves.

TENNIS CLUB.—There was a good attendance at the lady members' whist drive held in the Pavilion on Friday evening. Mrs. E. Sykes was M.C., and the prizewinners were: 1, Mrs. F. Clay; 2, Mrs. G. Britton; 3, Miss A. Skitt; 4, Mrs. 3. D. Perkins; special, Miss W. Perkins.

10th January 1941

BROSELEY

CHOIR SUPPER.—The annual choir supper, given by Mr. and Mrs. T. G. Broadhurst, took place at the Rectory on Tuesday evening, the Rev. C. S. Jackson presiding, supported by Mr. and Mrs. Bayfield and Mr. and Mrs. R. Yorke. After supper the rest of the evening was spent in games and musical items; including community singing. Those taking part were Raymond Molyneux, G. Davies and W. Hough (songs and duets), Mr. Ron Yorke (monologues), and piano recitals by Mr. D. Williams. Mr. W. Williams proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Broadhurst for their kindness and interest.

CHILD'S DEATH.—The death took place on Tuesday of Graham Henry, only son of Mr. and Mrs. Humphreyson, 37, Dark Lane, Broseley. The funeral takes place at the parish church on Friday

CHILDREN'S PARTY.—The annual children's party given by the West Midlands Joint Electricity Buildwas Authority Sports and Social Club was held in the Town Hall on Saturday afternoon, when the youngsters spent a very enjoyable time. A full programme of amusements and entertainments had been arranged by the committee and hon. secretary, Mr. C. Oakley. Mr E. H. Taylor presided, and the musical programme consisted of Mr. P. Heighway's (Dawley) accordion band, items by Messrs. C. Southern and G. Whittingham, and the Wellington tap dancers. The M.C. was Mr. C. Grattidge. Refreshments were served during the interval by Mesdames J. Tisdale, D. Bradley, H. Bryce, T. Young, D. Mason, E. Goodall and W. Smallman. The chairman proposed a vote of thanks to all helpers.

DEATH OF MR. WILLIAM SEDGLEY.—The death occurred on Sunday at Council House, Dark Lane, Broseley, of Mr. William Sedgley, aged 79. He was a bachelor and was for many years employed at the Broseley Tileries. The funeral took place at the Parish Church on Wednesday, the rector, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, officiating. The principal mourners were Mr. Joseph Sedgley (Bewdley), brother; Mr. and Mrs. T. Sedgley, brother and sister-in-law; Mr. C. Everall, Mr. C. Roberts and Mrs. J. Roberts. The bearers were Messrs. A. Pountney, G Harrison, W. Wood, R. Ashworth, J. Evans and C. Marden.

PRIZE-GIVING.—The annual tea and prize-giving in connection with Broseley Baptist Sunday school took place on New Year's Day. About 54 scholars sat down to tea, provided by Mesdames Hall. Evans, Garbett, Boden and the Misses Bennett and Pritchard. After tea Miss E. Beddow presented prizes to the following:— Edith Beddow, Jean Owen, Eileen Boden, June Boden, Evelyn Jones, Margaret Jones, Beryl Jones, Alfred Jones, Phyllis Carter, Dorothy Carter, Douglas Brown, Rita Pritchard, Henry Pritchard, Frank Gough, Delia Brown, William Deaval, Mary Deaval, Derrick George, Albert Carter, George Mason, Charles Carter, Evelyn Hall, Thomas Carter, Louie Deaval, Beryl Jones, Mavis Roberts, Alice Tristham, Joyce Tristham, John Watson, Arthur Watson, Henry Britton, Beryl Watson, Margaret Reeves, Michael Beddow, Molly Harrison, Bryan Harrison, Paul Roberts, Malcolm Jones, Margaret Gill, Eileen Gill, Doris Hargreaves, John Herdman, Sam Anson, Ted Brown, Fred Brown, Robert Nailer, Audrey Swan and Maurice Aston, Mr. F. Garbett, as Father Christmas, distributed gifts from a decorated tree,

LADIES' WHIST DRIVE.—There was a good attendance at the whist drive held on Wednesday afternoon in aid of the Town Hall Restoration Fund. The M.C. was Miss Lister and Miss M. Potts presented prizes as follows: 1, Miss Harrison; 2, Miss M. Lloyd; 3, Miss

Taylor.

DEATH OF MRS. A. M. DIXON.—The death occurred at The Downs, Broseley, yesterday of. Mrs. Ada M. Dixon, wife of Mr. Arthur Nevitt Dixon, aged 70. She was a native of Birmingham but had spent all her married life in Broseley and was well-known and popular in the district. Mrs. Dixon took a keen interest in the Junior Imperial League being founder of the local branch of the Young Britons' Association. She is survived by her husband, 4 sons and two daughters. The funeral will take place at the parish church on Monday.

OLD PEOPLE'S PARTY.—The Annual Old People's Party, arranged by Minister of the Methodist Church, was held in the school room on Wednesday evening. The Rev. David Jack presided and there were about 50 guests. Tea was followed by community singing and an entertainment in which some of the old people took part. Solos were given by Miss Bennett and Mr. C. O. Jones. Mrs. Harris, Mrs. C. Thomas and Mr. Dennis Williams were the accompanists, Arrangements were made by Messrs. E. Harris and E. Humphries. The old people were taken to the party and home again by car through the generosity of Mr. F. C. Howells and Mr. H. Burns.

MISS PHYLLIS MEREDITH MARRIED. — The wedding took place at the parish church on January 2, the rector, the Rev. C. S. Jackson officiating, of Miss Phyllis Meredith, youngest daughter of Mrs. Meredith and the late Mr. George Meredith, of 3, Hockley Bank, Broseley, and Mr. Sydney Norman Wase, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. J. N. Wase, 2, Mill Houses, Coalbrookdale. The bride, who was given away by her brother, Mr. W. Meredith, wore a gown of white ring velvet cut on classical lines with train, full length veil and coronet of orange blossom. She had a necklace of pearls and carried a shower bouquet of pink carnations. Her sister, Miss Edith Meredith, and Mrs. J. B. Munday, the bridegroom's sister, were in attendance. They wore gowns of pink satin beaute, trimmed with silver brocade and sequins, with veils and coronets of flowers. and pink muffs. Their gold bangles were the bridegroom's gifts. The best man was the bridegroom's brother, Mr. A. Wase. On leaving the church the bride was presented with silver horseshoes by her nephew and niece, Eric Miles and Roma Meredith. The ceremony was choral, Mrs. K. Bickley being at the organ.

DANCE. — Over 100 people attended the dance held in the Victoria Institute on Saturday evening on behalf of General Funds. Mr. A. Perkins was M.C. and the Variety Dance Band was in attendance. A competition was organised on behalf of the Services Christmas Appeal and was won by Mr. H. Davies, who returned the prize, which was then offered by mock auction and bought by Mrs. W. Edwards

JACKFIELD

TENNIS CLUB.—There was a good attendance at the lady members' whist drive in the Pavilion on Friday. Mrs. F. Clay was the M.C., and Mrs. W. Mason (Birmingham) presented the prizes as follows :-1, Mrs. E. Sykes; 2. Mrs. H. Cox; 3, Mrs. W. Ellis; 4, Mrs. J. D. Perkins; special, Mrs. J. Pumford.

NATIVITY PLAY.--St. Mary's Hall was crowded on Wednesday evening when the Nativity Play, "Even Unto Bethlehem." written and staged , by the Rector the Rev. F. J. R. Mason, was given in aid of the Children's Party. The connecting passages from the Bible were read by Mr. J. Pumford. Mrs. Mason (piano) and Mr. W. H. Gough (violin) played the accompaniment. The soloists were Mr. A. Pugh and Miss C. Hadley. The parts were taken by Messrs. J. Gregson, L. Hearn, N. Hudson. E. Hudson, F. Clay and D. Johnson, Miss D. Groves, Miss E. Perkins and Miss P. Hudson, Messrs. S. Blackford, J. Hatton, C. Cross, D. Hill, G. Wall, B. Thomas and G. Hatton, Miss Carr, Mr. Joseph Hanley, Rosemary Mason, D. J Johnson, Gladys Edge. Pam Jones, Delia Whiten, Alice Aston, Beryl Whittingham, Ellen Brophy, Miss ). Hudson and Mrs. A. Ellis. The whole play was well produced and thoroughly enjoyed.

BENTHALL

CHILDREN'S PARTY.—The Annual Fancy Dress Party in connection with the Benthall Sunday School was held in Broseley Town Hall on New Year's Day, and an enjoyable afternoon was spent by the young folk. The judge was Mrs. C. Thomas and each child received a prize from Mrs. C. O. Jones. Refreshments were supplied during the evening and everyone appeared in high spirits. The proceeds, amounting to £2 5s., will go to the Lord Mayor of Birmingham's Air Raid Distress Fund.

17th January 1941

BROSELEY

THE LATE MRS. A. M. DIXON.— The funeral. of Mrs. Ada M. Dixon, of The Downs, Broseley, took place at the parish church on Monday, the remains being interred in the family vault. The rector, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, officiated and the service was choral, with Mrs. T. Bickley at the organ. The principal mourners were the husband; Mr. L. A. N. Dixon and Mr. J. B. Dixon, sons; Mr. and Mrs. R. D. Dixon and Mr. and Mrs. D. J. Dixon, sons and daughters-in-law; Mr T. C. V. Hodson, son-in-law; Sergeant Pilot Birt, nephew; Mr. P. A. Dixon, brother-in-law, and Miss M. Oswell. Others present were Mr. J. Jones, Alderman A. Exley Miss N. Maddox, (Iron-Bridge), Mrs. P. J. Maddox (Coalbrookdale), Mrs. F. Jones, Mr. J. Sankey, Mrs. Crawford, Mr. W. Price, Mrs. Oswell. The bearers were Messrs P. Roberts, B. Roberts, W. S. Williams, J. Britton, H. Harris and L. Morris

CHILD'S FUNERAL. — The funeral of Graham Henry, only son of Mr. and Mrs. Humphreyson, 37, Dark Lane, who died on the 7th, took place at the parish church on Saturday, the Rev. C. S. Jackson. (rector) officiating. The mourners were the parents; Mrs. Humphreyson (grandmother); Mrs. M. Marsh, aunt; Mr. and Mrs. A. Potts, uncle and aunt; and Miss N. Potts, aunt. The bearers were Mrs. N. Boden and Mrs. B. Burns.

SUNDAY SCHOOL PARTY.—The annual party in connection with the Broseley Parish Church Sunday School was held in the Town Hall on Friday evening. The programme of tea, games and dancing was presided over by the Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector). There were 100 present and the M.C. for dancing was Mr. C. Southern who organised the party. Refreshments were served by Miss Potts, Miss E. Jackson, Mr. D. Cope, Mrs. A. Watkins, Mrs. F. Meredith, Mrs. George and Mrs. Molyneux.

LABOUR WHIST DRIVE.—At the Labour Party's whist drive on Tuesday, Mr. Perks was the M.C., and the prize-winners were: 1, Mrs. Harrison, 2, Mrs. Fielding; 1, Mr. Corfield, 2, Mr. Lloyd.

DANCE.—The committee of the Victoria Institute held a successful Cinderella dance, Saturday evening with an attendance of 100. Mr. E. Pottenger was the M.C. and refreshments were served by -Mesdames Ball and Hall.

WHIST.—There was a good attendance at the ladies' whist drive held in the Town Hall on Wednesday afternoon. Mrs. Potts was the M.C., and Mrs. Erridge presented the prizes as follows: 1, Mrs. Potts; 2, Mrs. Whitely; 3, Mrs. J. Broadhurst,

DANCE.—A dance arranged by four members of the Church School Old Boys' Football Club in aid of bombed areas was held in the Town Hall on Wednesday evening, and was well attended. The M.C. was Mr. Ivor Southern, and those responsible for the arrangements were Messrs. D. George; Guy Tonkiss, D. Meredith, and N. Watson,

GAMEKEEPER'S DEATH.—The death occurred' at his home, Rudgewood, Broseley, on Wednesday, of Mr. Frederick Charles Kitson, aged 60, who had been head gamekeeper at the Willey Estates for the past 20 years. He was a native of the district and the son of a former head gamekeeper. The late Mr. Kitson was also kennel huntsman to the Willey Beagles. He was a member of the Home Guard, secretary of the Willey Church Council, and a member of the church club. Local events always received his wholehearted support. The funeral takes place at Barrow on Saturday.

JACKFIELD

TENNIS CLUB.—There was a good attendance at the lady members whist drive in the pavilion on Friday evening. Mrs E. Sykes was the M.C. and Mrs. Pierce (Coalport) presented the prizes as follows: 1, Mrs. W. Mason. 2, Mrs. W. Ellis, 3, Master Peter Jones; special Mrs. J. Bumford.

JACKFIELD BAND. — The annual general meeting of the Jackfield Band was held at the Black Swan on Monday evening, Mr. W. T. Hudson presiding. The hon. treasurer, Mr. L. Hearn, reported a credit balance of £14 4s. 4d. Officers elected were: President, Alderman A. A. Exley; chairman, Mr. W. T. Hudson; hon. treasurer, Mr. L. Hearn; hon. secretary, Mr. J. Cox; bandmaster, Mr. W. Ellis; deputy bandmaster, Mr. C. Hudson; auditors, Councillor T. C. Gibbs and Mr. W. C. Price.

MILITARY WEDDING.—The wedding took place at St. Mary's Church on Saturday, January 11, the Rector, the Rev. F. J. R. Mason, officiating, of Miss Elizabeth Potts, daughter of Mrs. A. Jenks, 36, Waterloo Street, Iron-Bridge, and Gunner Harold Poole, 3rd son of Mr. and Mrs. E. Poole, of 141, Church Road, Jackfield. The bride, who was given away by her uncle, Mr. J. Potts, wore a full-length white satin gown and veil and silver coronet, and carried a bouquet of white chrysanthemums. She had four bridesmaids, her sister, Miss Nancy Jenks, and Miss Violet Poole, the bridegroom's sister (who wore dresses of pink satin marocain with pink coronets, satin shoes and carried bouquets of pink carnations), and Miss Pamela Jones, and the bridegroom's niece, Miss Pamela Poole, whose dresses were of turquoise blue silk with blue coronets. They carried posies of blue flowers. The best man was Mr. B. Bailey. The service was choral with Miss A. Owen at the organ as the bride and bridegroom left the church. They passed through a guard of honour of. the Home Guard with raised rifles. Later a reception was held in the school room, "Coalford Chapel."

31st January 1941

JACKFIELD

HOME GUARD DANCE.—A dance was held in St. Mary's Hall on January 22 and was arranged by the local section of the Home Guard in aid of Hall expenses. The way a large attendance and Mr. F. Clay was the M.C.. and Mrs. Dodd, School House, was in charge of refreshments.

28th February 1941

BROSELEY

LABOUR • WHIST.—Mr. • Garbett was the M.C. at the local Labour Party's whist drive held in the Town Hall on Wednesday evening when the prizes were won, by 1, Mrs. Roberts, 2, Mrs. Casey; 1, Mrs. Sea-bury, 2, Mrs. Tisdale.

LOCAL FOOTBALLER'S SUCCESS. —A/C.1 G. A. Goodall, of Cobwell is now excelling himself in Service football, and is now playing in the first team of the R.A.F. As a boy he played in the school team and by the age of 14 he had settled down as a right back, and was considered by experts to have the making of  "star" player.

In the R.A.F. side his team mates are all professional footballers, and they are greatly impressed by his playing. He has had several offers of positions with first-class clubs after the war.

COMMUNITY EVENING.—A community evening arranged by members of the Parish Church was held in the Town Hall on Tuesday. Mr. R. A. Yorke presided, supported by the Rev. C. S. Jackson. An excellent programme was given by local talent. The items included: Pianoforte duet, Miss L. Meredith and Mrs. Pickin; choruses by the choir boys under the direction of Mr. R. Yorke; quartet by Messrs. A. J. Garbett, W. Price, R. Picken and F. Francis; monologues by Mr. R. Yorke; choruses by the Youth Club choir; a one-act play by members of the Sunday School; and monologues by Gerald Davies and William Hough.

WHIST DRIVE. A well attended whist drive in aid of the Broseley St. John Nursing Division was held in the ['own Hall on Friday evening, arranged by Mrs. Hoy. The M.C. was Mr. T. W. Howells, and Lady Malt-and distributed the prizes as follows: Mrs. Bridgwater; 2, Mrs. N. George; 3, Mrs. M. Molyneaux; lowest score, Mrs. Sands; 1, Mr. Bridgwater; 2, Mr. Corfield; 3, Mr. W. Jones; lowest score, Mr. T. Hough. A competition was won by Miss A. Lloyd.

DEATH OF MISS MARY MILLINGS.--The death has occurred in hospital of Miss Mary Millings, of Carver's Row, Broseley, aged 77. She was a member of a well-known farming family in the Bridgnorth area, and came to Broseley 16 years ago. She vas a sister of Mr. George Millings, of Billingsley, who is a member of the Bridgnorth Rural District Council and well-known Hereford cattle breeder.

7th March 1941

JACKFIELD MINER'S

THEFT OF COAL

Fine at Much Wenlock Court

Declaring that he had taken coal to light a fire to dry his clothes, a collier from the Kemberton Colliery, Madeley. pleaded “guilty" to a charge of stealing 31 lbs. of coal and a nail sack at Wenlock Police Court on Tuesday, though later in the hearing of the case an official of the colliery stated that he received one ton of coal free for every 24 working days.

The accused was Joseph Arthur Smallam of 72, Lloyds Head, Jackfield, an onsetter, and he pleaded "guilty" to stealing the sack and coal from the Kemberton Colliery, being the property of the Madeley Wood Co., and valued at 2s.

Police-Constable Bailey said that on February 16 he saw the defendant carrying a bulky sack along the Iron-Bridge Road. He investigated and found that the sack contained a quantity of coal. Defendant said that he got the coal from the Kemberton Colliery near the check-way and that he took it because his wife was very ill and he had to keep fires going in the house night and day, and his clothes were wet. It was true that defendant's wife was ill and there was no coal in the coal-house. James Arthur Jackson, secretary to the Madeley Wood Company, said that defendant was entitled to one ton of coal for every 24 working days, and that he had had five tons since September 23 up to February 20.

Defendant said that his wife was very ill with bronchitis and that he had been obliged to use up all his coal. He was working in the sump at the colliery and took the bit of coal to dry his clothes out. He had always used the bag to carry some of his clothes to his home. He was fined £1 and ordered to pay 2s. 6d. costs.

BROSELEY COUNCIL MEETING

Cultivation of Birch Meadow

"I do think that we are doing something terribly wrong at a time like this, to keep these three or four acres lying idle", said the Rev. C. S. Jackson at the monthly meeting of Broseley District Council on Wednesday, when he drew attention to the uncultivated land belonging to the Council at Birch Meadow.

They were being urged to grow more food, and he thought that something should be done. It was rather difficult to get the labour, but he thought it would be better even if their roadmen instead of sweeping up bits of straw, which they often seemed to miss, were to plant the ground for a day or so. He certainly thought it should be cultivated.

When a member mentioned that Birch Meadow was used as a recreation ground, Mr. Jackson said that it was his idea that part, but not all, of the land should be used to grow food.

Councillor Davies thought that the only way to get the work done was to rent the ground to a farmer. There were a lot of people in Broseley now who would not put a spade to their own gardens.

It was decided to make a portion of the land available for cultivation, and the matter was referred to the Playing Fields Committee with power to let it to a suitable tenant.

BROSELEY

SERVICES APPEAL FUND.—A public meeting in connection with the local "Services Christmas Appeal Fund" was held in the Town Hall on Tuesday, Councillor T. W. Howells presiding. Mr. T. Goodall, hon. secretary, presented the final statement of accounts, showing a balance still in hand of £167 15s. 5d. He mentioned that 130 letters of thanks had been received from Service men. The Chairman congratulated everyone concerned in the movement, making special mention of the untiring work put in by their hon. secretary, Mr. Goodall, The accounts were adopted, and a long discussion followed as to the use of the remaining funds. The rector, Rev. C. S. Jackson, proposed that the present committee be disbanded and that the balance should be vested in the local Town Council, asking them to act as trustees, and that (the Council should call a public meeting in September. The proposition was supported by Mr. T. Wedge. Mr. J. Ritchings moved an amendment that a new committee be formed and that they should act as trustees. He said opinion in the town was against the Council having jurisdiction over the fund. Councillor, P. W. Parr said that the opinion of the committee did not necessarily mean the opinion of the whole Council, and he had never heard it mentioned in the Council chamber. Alderman E. D. Collins and Councillor T. Fletcher supported these remarks, and the amendment being put to the meeting it was carried. The whole of the retiring officials and committee were then re-elected, with the addition of Mesdames A. Lloyd and Bryce, and Messrs. Glover, G. N. Ball and Casey, with G. Taylor and Councillor C. D, Dyas for Barrow and Willey districts.

14th March 1941

BROSELEY

LABOUR WHIST.—Mr. T. Garbett was M.C. at the local Labour party's whist drive held in the Town Hall on Tuesday. The prizewinners were: 1 Mrs. Roberts, 2 Mrs. C. Hall, 1 Mr. J. Perks, 2 Mr. T. Corfield.

DANCE.—Over 100 people attended the dance at the Victoria Institute on Saturday evening. Mr. E. Pottenger was the M.C.

ACCIDENT.—Mrs. A. J. Harrison, of 23. Woodlands Road, Broseley, was knocked down by a motor lorry on March 5, She was removed to the Lady Forester Hospital, where it was found that she was suffering from concussion and a fractured arm.

VARIETY CONCERT.—A well-attended variety concert, given by members of the services, was held in the Town Hall on Saturday evening. The title of the show I was "Stand Easy" and it was arranged by W.O. Butts, the compare being Flt. Sgt.  Hammerston. A silver collection was taken at the close and realised £4 8s. for the bombed areas.

21st March 1941

BROSELEY

DANCE.-Mr. K. Oakley was M.C. at the Victoria Institute dance on Saturday evening when about 100 dancers were present. Refreshments were served by Mesdames Ball and Hall.

MILITARY WEDDING.-The wedding took place at All Saints Church. Broseley, on Saturday, the Rector. Rev. C. S. Jackson, officiating, of Lance-Bombardier Waite- Johnson. R.A.. son of the late Mr. John Johnson and Mrs. Baugham of King Street, Broseley, and Miss Edith Annie Smith, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Smith, of Sutton Woods, Sutton Maddock. The bride, who was given away by her father, wore a gown of saxe ring velvet with silver girdle, blue veil and head-dress of blue. She carried a bouquet of pink carnations, The bridesmaid, Miss Hazel Johnson, the bridegroom's sister, wore a gown of crushed strawberry ring velvet with gold head-dress and girdle, and carried a bouquet of pink tulips. The best man was Mr. C. Russell.

COMFORTS WHIST DRIVES.--In aid of the Services Woollen Comforts Fund whist drives were held at Whitehall, Broseley, on Wednesday afternoon and evening, by permission of Alderman E. D. and Mrs. Collins. Alderman Collins acted as M.C. At the afternoon drive" Mrs. H. D. O. Ward (Linley Hall) presented the prizes to:-1. Mrs. Slaney: 2. Mrs. Bayfield: 3, Mrs. Taylor; consolation, Mrs. G. Potts. 1, Mrs. A. H. Thorn Pudsey; 2. Mrs. R. Smith; 3, Mrs. F. Roberts; consolation. Miss M. Potts. In the evening the prizes were presented by Mrs. Bourne to: 1, Miss P. Davies; 2, Mrs. G. Whitmore. 1, Mr. A. J. Garbett; 2, Mr. J. R. Towler. The events were organised by Mrs. Collins and the Working Party. It was announced that up to now this year 800 garments had been trade and dispatched to the authorities and had been spent on wool and materials.

BRIGHT HOUR.—A meeting was held in the Methodist Schoolroom on Tuesday afternoon. Rev. David Jack presided and gave an address on "Strength by Faith."

DARTS LEAGUE.— The annual presentation of prizes took place at "The Lord Hill" on Friday evening. Mr. E. Wylde presided, supported by Mr. T. Wedge and Mr. R. W. Parr. The chairman congratulated the league winners, "The Lord Hill," and presented them with the "Baldwin Webb" Challenge Cup, which he handed to their captain. Mr. Sherwood. He also congratulated the runners-up. "The New Inns." Refreshments followed, the hostesses being Mrs. Marlow and Mrs. Wedge, who were thanked, as was also Mr. J. Ritchings, the league secretary. A musical programme followed, the artistes being Messrs. E. Burgess. F. Pugh, Martin Sherwood and J. W. Ritchings.

LADIES' WHIST.—There was a good attendance at the ladies' whist drive held in the Town Hall on Wednesday afternoon in aid of the Hall renovation fund. Mrs. Taylor was the M.C.. and Mrs. Lister distributed the prizes to the successful players, as under:-1, Mrs. Pointing : 2, Mrs. Edridge; 3, Mrs Harrison.

LABOUR PARTY.—Mr. Garbett was the M.C. at the Labour Party's whist drive in the Town Hall on Tuesday evening, when the prize winners were: 1, Miss Cartwright; 2. Mrs. Molyneaux. 1, Mr Corfield; 2. Mrs. Tisdale (as gentleman).

BENTHALL

WOMEN'S INSTITUTE.--Miss Bayfield presided at the monthly meeting of Benthall Women's Institute on March 13, when Mrs. Charles gave a very interesting demonstration of pressure cooking. Mrs. Gregory and Mrs. Renwick were elected delegates to the fruit preserving meeting to be held at Wellington, and later community singing was enjoyed by the members. The tea hostesses were Mrs. R. Smith arid Mrs. W. Haynes.

JACKFIELD

YOUTH CLUB.--The Jackfield Youth Club had a full attendance at its last meeting when a debate took place on Sunday cinemas. The chairman was Frank Smith. Bryan Jones and Stanley-Gilbert, spoke for a motion in favour of Sunday cinemas and Sheila Ray and Harold Stovey led the opposition. In the subsequent discussion good points, were made by Mary Harrison, Kathleen Hudson, Derek Johnson and Joan Bright. Eventuality an amendment, "That this house approves of Sunday cinema; in blitz areas and where there are concentrations of troops, was carried.

MUCH WENLOCK

BLACK-OUT OFFENCES

Fines of 30s. each were imposed on Annie Budge, married woman, of 25, Wellington Road, Coalbrookdale, and Elsie Horton, shop-keeper, of 74. High Street, Broseley, for allowing lights to show from roofed buildings during the hours of darkness.

For using unauthorised lights on motor cycles or motor cars, fines of 10s. each were imposed on Ernest Alfred Skelton, miner, of 9, Maypole Road, Broseley; Norman Frank Holcroft, coal conveyor attendant, of 27, The Lloyds, Iron-Bridge; John Brown, viewer, of 41, Bridge Road, Benthall; and George Payne, labourer, of 1, Furnace Cottages, Lightmoor.

DRUNK AND DISORDERLY

When Harry White, labourer, of 17, Duke Street, Broseley, was summoned for being drunk and disorderly in  High Street, Broseley it was stated that he repeatedly challenged a soldier to fight, declaring that he would allow no man to hit his boy.

28th March 1941

BROSELEY

LABOUR WHIST DRIVE.—Mr. R. Perks was the M.C. at the local Labour Party's whist drive on Tuesday evening. The prizewinners were 1, Mrs. Casey, 2, Mrs. Hall; 1. Mrs. Robinson. 2, Mrs. George.

BRIGHT HOUR. — There was a good attendance on Tuesday, when Mrs. A. O. Jones presided and Mrs. E. C. S. White gave the address. A reading was given by Mrs. Burd.

INSTITUTE DANCE.---Mr. E. E. Pottenger was M.C. at the Victoria Institute's dance held on Saturday evening. Refreshment hostesses were Mesdames Hall and Ball.

BRITISH LEGION DANCE. —A successful dance, arranged by the women's section of the British Legion in aid of their Services Comforts Fund, was held in the Town Hall on Wednesday evening. There war; a large attendance, and Mrs. D. Bradley was M.C. The arrangements were' made by Mrs. Goodall, hon. secretary, and the stewards were Mesdames W. Ward, T. Wale, A. Jones and G. Whitehouse.

WHIST.--In a further effort to assist the Town Hall Renovation Fund the ladies held a whist drive in The Hall on Wednesday. This was well attended. Mr. J. Renwick was the M.C., and Mrs. J. Broadhurst presented the prizes to: 1, Miss Lister; 2, Mrs. Molyneaux; 3, Mrs. Smalley.

DOMINO LEAGUE.—At a well attended meeting of members of the Domino League at the King's Head on Friday evening, Mr. E. Wilde, who presided, presented to the King's Head team (League champions) the Baldwin Webb Cup and prizes, which they won on average, the Lion Hotel being the runners-up.

LOCAL SOLDIER'S DEATH.— Much sympathy is felt for the widow and family of Private James Sankey, Cheshire Regiment, who has died as the result of enemy action. A native of the town he attended the Church School and was later employed with Prestage and Broseley Tileries. He leaves a widow, formerly Miss E. Edwards, of Much Wenlock, and two sons. The funeral took place at Broseley on Wednesday. The vicar, the Rev. C. S. Jackson officiated, assisted by Mr. E. C. White, and the choir was in attendance with Mr. R. A. Yorke at the organ. The chief mourners were:-the widow; Mr. E. James, Mr. A. James. Mr. and Mrs. .T. Barlow, and Mrs. G. Cox, uncles and aunts; Mrs. C. Butler, half-sister; Mr. and Mrs. Duckitt, brother-in-law and sister-in-law; Mr. R. Edwards brother-in-law. Others present were, Messrs. J. Gough, C. Butler. T. Wedge, J. Sidbury, W. Meredith, and W. Cox, representing Prestage and Broseley Tileries; F. Dodd, A. Dodd and T. Smith. The bearers were members of the Home Guard, Sergt. J. .Jones, Messrs. C. O. Jones, R. Watkin, W. Smith, R. A. Yorke, W. Garbett and J. B. Dixon.

4th April 1941

BROSELEY

MOTHERS' UNION.—The vicar, the Rev. F. T. Brooks, gave his first talk in a series he is going to give at the meetings of the Mothers' Union each month on Wednesday in the Sunday School to a fairly large assembly.

DANCE.—The Sabrina Dance Band leader, Mr. F. Perkins, presided at the Victoria Institute's dance on Saturday evening. There was an attendance of over 100 and Mr. E. E. Pottinger was M.C.

CRICKET CLUB.—The Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector) presided at the annual general meeting of the Broseley Cricket Club on Friday, when the hon. treasurer, Mr. D. Mason, reported a balance in hand of £1 1s. 5d. The hon. secretary, Mr. R. J. I. Davies gave his report, and the future of the club came up for discussion. After members had stated their views, it was decided to amalgamate with the Willey and Benthall Club for the duration of the war and to endeavour to raise one team. Officers and committee for the ensuing year were re-elected as follows: President, Lord Forester; chairman, the Rev. C. S. Jackson: vice-chairman, Mr. W. Oakley; hon. secretary, Mr. R. J. I. Davies; hon. treasurer, Mr. D. Mason; captain, Mr. N. Wadlow; vice-captain, Mr J. Hartshorne; groundsman, Mr. T. Hough; umpire, Mr. J. Harper; committee, Messrs. F. Dodd, E. Shakespeare, C. Hill, G. Whitmore and G. Taylor.

CHILDREN'S CONCERT.—In aid of the funds of the Crusaders' Club. a children's concert, organised by the Methodist Sunday School, was held in the School Room on. Wednesday and Thursday evenings. The chairman on Wednesday was Mr. A. O. Jones, and on Thursday Mr. C. R. Jones. Mrs. C. Thomas was responsible for training the children. During the programme the children gave two plays, "Robinson Crusoe" and "Red Riding Hood." Recitations were given by Miss B. Heighway, Annie Bebb and Margaret Bebb, solos by Miss H. Stevens, choruses and songs and recitations by the children, and a very fine display of tap dancing by Miss M. Stevens. Miss J. Harris was the accompanist and those who assisted with the stage and scenery were the Misses M. Pugh, J. Heighway and M. Heighway. Refreshments were served by Mesdames A. Harris, J. Casey, A. O. Jones and Mrs. Barnsby.

BRIGHT HOUR.—Mrs. D. Jack, of Iron-Bridge, presided at a well-attended meeting of the Women's Bright Hour in the Methodist School Room on Tuesday afternoon, when the Rev. T. W. Earls (Madeley) gave an interesting address on "How we got the New' Testament.” Mr. Earis was the soloist and Mrs. A. Harris was at the piano.

LADIES' WHIST.—In a further effort to augment the Town Hall Fabric Repair Fund the ladies held another whist drive in the Hall on Wednesday afternoon. Mrs W. Andrews was M.C. and Miss H. Lister presented prizes as follows:-1, Mrs. Davies: 2. Miss Lloyd; 3, Mrs. George.

COMFORTS FUND.—As a result of two recent whist drives, organised by Mrs. E. D. Collins, and held at Whitehall, the Broseley Woollen Comforts Fund has benefited to the extent of £14.

11th April 1940

BROSELEY

WAR WEAPONS WEEK.--In connection with the borough of Wenlock War Weapons Week, Councillor T. Howells presided at a public meeting held in the Town Hall on Tuesday evening to make arrangements for the Broseley Ward, which also comprises the parishes of Linley and Barrow. The chairman said it was hoped to raise £20,000 in the ward towards the amount of £75,000 the borough hoped to realise. The executive committee elected consists of Lady Forester, Mr. J. Broadhurst, Mr. C. R. Jones, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, Mr. Bowyer, Dr. Hoy and Miss Tailor. It was decided to hold a church parade on Sunday May 4 at which Mr. Geo. Robey would give an address; also to hold a centre for the sale of War Savings Certificates on each day of the week.

18th April 1941

MUCH WENLOCK POLICE COURT

NO DRIVING MIRROR

Wilfred Leonard Lewis, 28, Barrow, Broseley, tractor driver, was fined £1 for driving a motor tractor with a trailer without a reflecting mirror. It was stated that defendant had been driving a tractor to which a trailer was attached, carrying a very heavy load of hay, and a mirror was essential to see traffic in the rear. Defendant said that a mirror was on order, but had not yet been delivered.

Mathew Owen, junior, a labourer, of 58, Wrekin View, Madeley, was fined 10s. for being drunk and incapable in Duke Street, Broseley. In a letter, he said that he had not been drunk, but was suffering from a severe pain in the side, for which he had been off work for some time.

STRAYING HORSES

William Evens, the Caravan, Lloyd's Road, Jackfield, was fined 15s. for being the owner of three horses found straying on the highway, and Arthur Price, the Encampment, Ladywood, Jackfield, was fined 5s. for a similar offence with regard to a horse. The police said that this sort of offence was becoming a serious nuisance, and would have to be stopped.

BROSELEY

BRITISH LEGION. — The annual meeting of the Broseley branch was held on April 10, Mr. W. J. Ritchings presiding. The hon. secretary, Mr. T. Goodall, reported that the branch had had a successful year, there being an increase in the membership, while the finances were in a sound position. The Benevolent Committee had been active and many cases have been helped. During the year 34 cases relating to dependants' allowances had been dealt with successfully. Thirty parcels had been sent by the women's section to local men serving with the Forces. The accounts, presented by the hon. treasurer, showed a balance on the general account of £18 13s., and on the benevolent account £15 16s. 5d. The Benevolent Committee had given assistance in 21 cases, totalling £19 10s. 6d. A loan of £10 had been made, and three grants totalling £2 10s., making a total of financial assistance for the year of £32 0s. 6d. Officials elected were: President, Lord Forester; chairman, Mr. W. J. Ritchings; vice-chairman, Mr. T. Wedge; hon. treasurer, Mr. E. C. S. White; hon. secretary, Mr. T. Goodall; benevolent fund hon secretary, Mr. P. Archer. Messrs. G. Whitmore and B. Wase were added to the committee. A vote of thanks was accorded the hon. secretaries and treasurer for their work during the year.

DEATH OF MRS. N. GARBETT.—The death occurred on Tuesday at Willey Furnace, Broseley, of Mrs. N. Garbett, wife of Mr. Thomas Garbett, aged 61.

BRIGHT HOUR.—Mrs. Jack presided on Tuesday, When Mr. Lingard (IronBridge) gave an address.

EASTER FESTIVAL.—There was a good attendance at every service at the Parish Church on Easter Day. The church had been seasonably decorated and the Children's Corner was decorated by the children. At Festal Evensong the preacher was the Rev. F. J. R. Mason, of Jackfield, and among special music rendered by the choir under the direction of Mr. R. Yorke was the anthem "Jesus Lives."

DEATH OF MR. J. MADELEY. — The death occurred on Sunday of Mr. Joseph Madeley, 7. Woodlands Road, Broseley, aged 67. He was by trade a builder, but retired some years ago. Mr. Madeley associated himself with many activities in the town. He was a member of the O. D. Murphy Lodge of Buffaloes and was the founder of four lodges in the Wrekin Province. He held the 3rd Degree in the Order. Mr. Madeley was also a member of the Broseley United Friendly Societies Hospital Committee and the local branch of the British Legion. He is survived by his widow, one son and one daughter, The funeral took place at Broseley Cemetery, the Rev. C. S. Jackson officiating. The R.A.O.B. funeral oration was read by Bro. William Roberts, R.O.H. (IronBridge). The chief mourners were the widow; Mr. and Mrs Arthur S. Madeley, son and daughter-in-law, of Chedderton; Mr. and Mrs. T. Raisewell, daughter and son-in-law). The bearers were Messrs. H. S. Southern; J. Plant, F. Baughan, J. Newbound, J. Watkins and T Miles, fellow brethren of the O.D. Murphy Lodge, R.A.O.B.

MR. W. E. BRITTON MARRIED.—The wedding took place at All Saints' Church on Saturday last, the Rev. C. S. Jackson officiating, of Mr. Walter Ernest Britton, son of Mr. and Mrs. A. Britton, of Poole's Yard, Broseley, and Miss H. J. Jones, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. Jones (Worfield). The bride, who was given away by her father, wore a navy two-piece suit with hat and shoes to tone and carried a bouquet of pink carnations. The matron of honour was her sister, Mrs. E. Jones (Bridgnorth) and the bridesmaid Miss H. Britton, the bridegroom's sister. They wore navy coats over floral dresses with hats to tone and carried pink tulips. The best man was Mr. T. Gough, and the groomsman Mr. G. Hartshorne. The service was choral, with Mr. R. Yorke at the organ. On leaving the church the bride was presented with a silver horse shoe by her cousin, Master George Hartshorne, and a guard of honour was formed by All Saints' Church Troop of Boy Scouts, of which the bridegroom is Scoutmaster. The ceremony was followed by a reception held at the Rectory, lent for the occasion by the rector.

CRICKET CLUB DANCE.—Broseley Cricket Club held its annual dance in the Town Hall on Monday. There was a large number present and Mr. I. Southern was the M.C. Refreshments were served by Mesdames T. Goodall, N. George, F. Mears. W. Haynes and the Misses. G. Whitmore and A. Lloyd.

WILLEY

WEDDING—At St. John's Church on Saturday the marriage took place of Mr. Ernest Edward, Gough, of 66, Friar's Street, Bridgnorth, and Miss Joyce Margaret Foulkes, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Foulkes, of Shirlett. Given away by her father, the bride wore a blue coat and dress with navy hat and a spray of carnations. She was attended by her sister, Mrs Rowe, also dressed in blue. Lance Corporal Gough, the bridegroom's brother, was beat man.

25th April 1941

BROSELEY

BRIGHT HOUR.— Mrs. Jack presided on Tuesday and the address was given by Pastor Edwards, Bridgnorth. MOTHERS' UNION.—There was a good attendance at the meeting in the Town Hall on Monday. The speaker was the Rev. J. R Mason, of Jackfield.

DANCE.--About 150 people attended the dance in the Victoria Institute on Saturday evening. Mr. Dennis Bradley was the M.C., and Mesdames Ball and Hall were in charge of refreshments

WAR WEAPONS WEEK.--In conjunction with the forthcoming War Weapons Week a whist drive was held in the Town Hall on Wednesday evening. Mr. Ted Howells was the M.C. Mrs. Hoy presented the prizes to: 1. Mrs. G. Tonkiss; 2, Mrs. A. Burd: 3, Mrs. J. Casey; 4, Mrs. Bowyer; 1, Mr. T. Corfield; 2, Mr. F. Criniman; 3, Mr. T. Carr (Bungalow); 4, Mr. J. Ritchings. War Savings Certificates were on sale during the evening.

WILLEY

LATE MRS. NELLIE GARBETT.— The funeral of Mrs. Nellie Garbett, 16, Willey Furnace, Broseley, took place at Barrow Church on Saturday, the Rector the Rev. W, Pulford, officiating. The principal mourners were Mr. Garbett, husband; Mr. and Mrs. F. Wallace (Birmingham), Mr. H. Wallace (Kings Heath), Miss F. Rogers (Stafford), Miss E Sankey (Quatford), Mrs. J. Foulkes (Shirlett), Mr. F. Foulkes (Shirlett), and Mr. T. Sankey, cousins; and many friends and neighbours. The bearers were Messrs. C. Chatham, G. Corfield, G. Sherwood. F. Sherwood, G. Jones and A. Pountney.

JACKFIELD

VESTRY.— The annual vestry and church council meetings were held in St. Mary's Hall on April 17 when the Rector, the Rev. F J. R. Mason, presided. The statement of accounts was presented by Mr T. J. Hearne (vicar's warden) and adopted. Mr. J. W. Harrison was re-elected people's warden and Mr. Hearne, vicar's warden. The sidesmen were re-elected with the addition of Mr. F. Clay. The church council meeting followed. The Hon. Sec., Mr. W. Johnson, gave statement of the council's work throughout the year. Mr. Johnson was re-elected secretary and the council was re-elected en bloc. The Rector thanked all who had assisted in the work of the church during the year, Mr. Harrison, on behalf of the parishioners, thanked the Rector for presiding and for his continued untiring work in the parish.

THE OLD SEVERN TROW.

"WILLIAM"

I am extremely interested in the history of the navigation of the River Severn and in particular in its famous "trows" and I wondered if you, or some of your readers, could clear up one or two points which I have been trying to clear up for some time.

The first concerns the whereabouts of the site of one of the most famous of the old trow building yards, the "Bower Yard." Here the famous trow "William," lost in 1939, was built in 1809 and other well-known vessels were aloe launched at this yard. On the Register Certificate of the "William." which I have had the opportunity of inspecting, she is described as having been launched at the "Bower Yard, Salop." This may mean at Shrewsbury, or anywhere lower down the river within the Shropshire border. I should be most grateful to anyone who could help me to discover where this yard was and anything concerning its history. Secondly I am interested in the upper river navigation and should like to find out the main points of trade on the river above and immediately below Shrewsbury, the type of goods carried, the names and particulars of the vessels carrying them and the dates at which the various trades ceased to exist. Pool Quay seems to be generally regarded as the uppermost point of navigation. It would be interesting to know al what date and under what circumstances this trade was carried on. Finally I should be interested to trace any other Shropshire shipbuilding yards of other times.

If anybody can help me with these points, or can give me any information concerning the history of the navigation of the Upper Severn. I should be most grateful.

BASIL GREENHILL

In the "Shrewsbury Chronicle," of July 8, 1938, there was an illustrated article on "The Oldest Trading Vessel in Britain," signed G. E. Farr, This was the above named "William" which was then still trading in the Bristol Channel. It states that the vessel "was built on Severnside at Bower Yard, Coalbrookdale" in 1809. It also gives full details of the peculiar build of these trows to adapt them to river and coastal navigation. The "Chronicle" of June 9, 1939 records the loss of the "William" with two of her crew off Portishead less than a year later. This left only five Severn-built troves (none of them rigged), of which a list is given.

As regards the general navigation of he Severn, the Transactions of the Caradoc and Severn Valley Field Club, 1934, contain two excellent papers. One on the Upper Severn up to Pool Quay, by A. Stanley Davies, and the other on the Port of Bridgnorth by Dr. Watkins-Pitchford. The latter mentions several yards at Bridgnorth where trows were built. Bob articles are illustrated. These can be obtained from the Club, 41. Castle Street, Shrewsbury, price 2s. 8d post free.

EDITOR S.N. and Q.

2nd May 1941

Request For Evening Council Meetings

By Broseley Labour Party

Broseley Labour Party Committee on April 22 adopted the following resolution which has been forwarded to the Town Clerk of Wenlock:—

"In order to bring this district into line with the vast majority of other districts, we respectfully propose to the Broseley Town Council that it passes a motion to the effect that all Broseley Town Council Meetings in future be held in the evenings at a time when working people are able to attend, and to enable working men who may be aspirants to positions on the. Town Council to present themselves for election."

"We submit that by making this alteration the Council will be acting in the interests of the people of Broseley, and will be giving to every man his proper and equitable right to seek election to the Council if he so wishes, further, that the adoption of this resolution will remove a very justifiable grievance long nursed by the people by this town."

JACKFIELD

WAR WEAPONS DANCE.--In connection with the Borough of Wenlock War Weapons. Week a well attended dance arranged by Messrs. I. Cross and L. Hearne was held in St. Mary's Hall on Wednesday evening. Those in attendance included Councillor and Mrs. T. W. Howells, Rev. F. J. R. and Mrs. Mason, and Councillor T. C. Gibb. The M.C. was Mr. C. Cross.

WELL KNOWN RESIDENT'S DEATH. —The death occurred at 96, The Knowle, Jackfield, on Monday, of Mr. George Sidney Williams, aged 55. He was for 40 years a member of the office staff of Messrs. Craven Dunhill, Ltd., and retired a short time ago as chief estimating and quantity clerk. He had recently been employed at the Hadley Castle Car Works. He was for many years Sunday School Superintendent and a church warden. Mr. Williams is survived by the widow, one son (at present serving with the Forces), and two daughters. The funeral takes place at St. Mary's Church. Jackfield, on Saturday, and the interment will be at Broseley Cemetery.

COALFORD METHODISTS. — Special services in support of the `Local Preachers Mutual Aid Fund' were held in Coalford Methodist Chapel on Sunday. The preacher was Mr. E. Glover.

BROSELEY

DEATH OF MRS. M. A. LLOYD.--The death took place at 51, High Street, Broseley, on Monday, of Mrs. Mary Ann Lloyd, aged 78, widow of Mr. H. Lloyd. For many years she and her husband were host and hostess at The Pheasant Hotel. Mrs. Lloyd carried on after her husband's death until 1917, when she retired. Mrs. Lloyd was one of the last remaining members of the old Broseley Dramatic Society. She is survived by three sons and one daughter. The funeral took place at All Saints', Broseley, on Thursday.

METHODIST CHURCH.— Services in support of the 'Local Preachers Mutual Aid Funds' were held in the Methodist Church on Sunday. The preacher was Miss Barnes, of Carlisle. The choir sang the anthem 'The Lord gave the word' and there were solos by Miss Barnes. The choir was conducted by Mr. F. Aston and Mr. W. Williams was at the organ.

DANCE.— Mr. W. Meredith was the M.C. at a successful dance held in the Victoria Institute, in aid of general funds. on Saturday evening. Mesdames N. G. Ball and H C. Hall were in charge of refreshments.

IRON BRIDGE

UNOBSCURED LIGHTS

For failing to obscure lights on premises during the "black-out," Lucy Langford, 27, Shineton Street, Much Wenlock, was fined 10s., and Eileen Parr, Benthall House, Broseley, and Violet Osborn, 9, Leggs Hill, Broseley, were each fined 30s.

A charge against James Davies, of Bank Farm, Willey, of leaving a car on the highway without the obligatory lights during the hours of darkness, was dismissed, Mr. Cornfield, of Wellington, for defendant, submitting that the piece of land on which the car had been left was private ground.

Arthur Skitt, 252, The Werps, Jackfield, who was charged with driving a motor cycle without a red rear light and also with an inefficient silencer, was fined 10s. in each case.

Robert Braddick, Ladywood, Jackfield, was fined 10s. for allowing two ponies to stray on the highway. and £1 for allowing a horse to stray on the highway, the latter case being brought under borough bye-laws.

9th May 1941

BROSELEY CHURCH PARADE

In connection with War Weapons Week a church parade for all parishes appeal are being held in the various wards throughout the week in an effort to exceed the amount aimed at in the Broseley Ward, which includes, Jackfield, Barrow, Benthall and Willey was held in Broseley Parish Church on Sunday afternoon. The parade, in which various sections of Home Guard Fire Services, Police and Specials. War Savings Group, British Legion, Mothers' Union, Civil Defence Corps, Friendly Societies and members of the Corporation took part, assembled in King Street, headed by the Jackfield Silver Band. At The Parish Church service was conducted by the rector, the Rev. C. S. Jackson. In place of the lesson the Rev. F. J. R. Mason (Jackfield), recited Rudyard Kipling's 'If'. The augmented choir, under its conductor, Mr. Walter Davies, sang the 'Lost Chord', and 'Land of Hope and Glory'.

The pulpit was occupied by Mr. George Robey, who, in an earnest address, said, 'We are in the midst of a dreadful war. We are all in the front line. The battle has got to be won and we are going to win'. He appealed to all to give of their best and to lend generously to the Government at this critical time.

JACKFIELD

LATE MR. G. S. WILLIAMS.—The funeral of Mr. George Sidney Williams, of The Knowle, Jackfield, took place at St. Mary's Church, Jackfield, on Saturday. The Rev. F. J. R. Mason officiated. The interment was at Broseley Cemetery. The family mourners were the widow; Mr. and Mrs. Malcolm Williams, son and daughter-in-law; Mr. and Mrs. Boardman and Mr. and Mrs. Hughes, sons in law and daughters; Mrs. Williams, mother; Mr. and Mrs. F. Benbow, brother-in-law and sister; Mrs. Onions, sister; Mr. W. H. Smith, brother-in-law; the Misses F. Smith, B. Smith, B. M. Smith, G. Smith and Mrs Tranter, sisters.; in-law; Mr. Basil Tranter, nephew; Mrs. C. Smith, sister-in-law; and Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Batchelor. Among others present were representatives of the Oddfellows and Messrs. Sankey's (Hadley), Mr. and Mrs. T. J. Hearne, Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Ball, Mr. T. Poole, Mr. G. Smith. Mr. W. E. Banks, Mr. J. D. Perkins, Mrs F. Dodd, Mrs. L. Evans and Mr. T. C. Gibbs. The Oddfellows' funeral oration was read by Bro. L. Hearne. The bearers, all office colleagues from Craven Dunhill's. were Messrs. R. Yorke, E. Price, D. Cope, W. Britton, G. Jones and W. Garbett.

BROSELEY COUNCIL'S PROTEST

Evacuation Scheme " Unsatisfactory”

A vigorous protest at the working of the evacuation scheme in Broseley, which is a reception area, was made at a meeting of Broseley Council on Wednesday, Councillor Exley presiding.

Councillor Howells: I think we have to face up to the fact that the ports are going to suffer considerably more in the near future than they have in the past. Broseley seems to be regarded, not only as an official, but as an unofficial reception area, with the result that families bombed out of Liverpool are coming into this district without any warning.

As far as he knew there was no accommodation for them anywhere when they came to Broseley late at night. The billeting officers in the district, who were unpaid, were overworked, and had the thankless task of finding some form of accommodation at all hours of the night.

The Town Clerk (Mr. F. W. Derry) said that there were two reception centres —one at Coalbrookdale and the other in Broseley Town Hall. The County Council and public assistance committee were the people to consult in the matter. They had instructed the relieving officers to open these buildings when necessary if no billet was available.

Councillor Howells said that that was totally inadequate. Broseley relieving officer lived at Wenlock. How were they to consult him at 10 p.m.? It was no satisfaction to the local people that the County Council were responsible.

Councillor Jackson said that the fault lay, not so much with the scheme as with the working of it.

Councillor Davies gave instances of the difficulties which arose when evacuees arrived late at night. One woman had been outside his door with five children. She had walked from Wenlock in the rain. In another case he had been fortunate in finding an empty cottage for five people, which they rented at 5s. a week

Councillor Jackson said that it was very good of people to do the work unofficially, but the person responsible should get on with the job. He added, "The County Council will never, never work until you kind people make it fail."

It was decided to send a letter of protest to the County Council, and insist that a reception centre should be opened all the time in the area, preferably at Benthall School, where there were cooking and heating amenities.

A resolution from the Broseley Labour Party was read, in which it was proposed that the Council should hold their meetings at night in order to give the local workers an opportunity to attend them, and if necessary, present themselves for election. Such an action would remove a justifiable grievance of the townspeople. It was decided to postpone discussion of the matter to the next meeting.

BROSELEY

BRIGHT HOUR—At Tuesday's meeting the Rev. David Jack gave an interesting address. Mrs. A. Harris was at the piano.

FOOTBALL MATCH.—In connection with War Weapons Week, a football match arranged by Mr. J. Edwards was played on Saturday evening between Broseley Old Boys and Posenhall Rovers. An exciting game resulted in a win for Posenhall by three goals to nil. By this effort £4 was raised towards Broseley's share in the final total.

THE LATE MRS. M. A. LLOYD.—The funeral of Mrs. Mary Ann Lloyd, 5, High Street. Broseley, took place on Thursday, the rector, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, officiating. The principal mourners were Messrs Hawley, Eric and Leslie Lloyd, sons; and Miss A. Hatwood (Shrewsbury), niece. Others present included Mr. and Mrs. E C. White, Mr. J. Watkins, Mr. E. Massie (Wenlock) and Mr. P. Sands.

WHIST.—There were 88 tables at the whist drive arranged by the Benthall section of the War Savings Committee and held in the Town Hall, Broseley, on Wednesday evening. Mr. G. Whitmore was the M.C. and Mrs. Kelly presented the prizes to:—1, Mrs. Bridgewater; 2, Mrs. A. Fielding; 3, Mrs. C. Jones; special, Mrs. Bryce: 1, Mrs. T. Young; 2, Mr. A. T. Young; 3, Miss Enid Jackson; special, Mrs. P. Archer. Mr. T W. Howells (chairman of the local War Weapons Committee) thanked the organisers.

JACKFIELD

WHIST.—There was a packed house at St. Mary's Hall, Jackfield, on Wednesday evening for the whist drive arranged by the Women's Section of the British Legion in aid of Wenlock's War Weapons, Week Messrs. A. Aston and A. Rogers were the M.C's and Mrs. Price (Coalport) distributed the prizes as follows:-1, Mrs. Dicken; 2, Mrs. Preece: 3. Mrs. L. Evans; highest score. Mrs. Britton; 1, Mrs. Howells (Coalport): 2, Mrs. Smith: 5, Mrs. Green; lowest score. Mrs. F. Clay; sealed number, Mrs. Budge; cake winner, Mr. Parton.

COALFORD METHODISTS.—School anniversary services were held on Sunday, when the preacher was the Rev. Lionel Jones (Dawley).  At the musical service in the afternoon the children sang special music, and solos were rendered by Mr. Harold Hesketh (Dawley), who also sang at the evening service. Mr. Poole was at the organ.

30th May 1941

DEATH OF MR. HUGH WELSH AGENT TO WILLEY ESTATES

Former English Mile Champion

The death took place at the Old Hall, Willey, on Sunday, of Mr. Hugh Welsh, who had been secretary and agent to the Willey Estates since. 1922. Mr. Welsh, who was 65, was a native of Edinburgh and was educated at the George Watson College and Edinburgh University. Before coming to Willey he was agent to Lord Temple, of Newton St. Loe, Bath, for 13 years. He also held the position of agent to the Wenlock Abbey, Aldenham, Belswardyne, and Shipton Estates, giving these up recently owing to ill-health. At the time of his death he was also agent to the Downton Estate, Ludlow. He was clerk to the trustees of the Barrow Almshouses, and on the Executive of the Shirlett Sanatorium. After coming into the district he took a keen interest in the public life of the Borough of Wenlock and in 1928 was elected to the Council as a representative of the Barrow Ward. He continued to serve on the Council until failing health compelled him to resign in November, 1940. He was a member of all the important committees of the Council where his knowledge and foresight were much appreciated. He was also chairman of the Borough Food Executive Committee and was for some time billeting officer for the borough. In recognition of his services to the Council a presentation was made to him.

In his younger days Mr. Welsh was an amateur champion runner at the mile and half-mile. He won the British mile championship in 1898 and 1899, six Scottish championships, and was first home in the mile and half-mile against Ireland in 1896, 1898 and 1899. He was a keen golfer, being a member of the Wrekin and Bridgnorth Golf Clubs, and he was also a member of the Broseley Tennis Club. His other recreations were shooting and fishing. He was a Freemason and was a Past Master of the Castle Lodge, Bridgnorth. Until a few months ago he was Commanding Officer of the Willey Platoon of the Home Guard.

During the last war he served with the Lands Branch of the War Office, holding the rank of Captain. In 1903 he married Frances, daughter of the late Mr. Daniel Jackson, of Hexham, Northumberland, who together with his sister survives him. Mrs. Welsh is a sister of the Rev. C. S. Jackson, Rector of Broseley.

The funeral service took place at Willey Church on Thursday evening and the interment was at Barrow Churchyard.

THE FUNERAL

There was a large attendance at the funeral service at Willey Church, which preceded the interment at Barrow. The service was conducted by the Rev. W. W. Pulford (rector of Willey) assisted by the Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector of Barrow and Broseley). The service was choral, Mr. W. Wase being at the organ, and the choir was conducted by Mr. R. York. Organ music included "O Rest in the Lord" and "I know that my Redeemer Liveth," and the hymns "O Love that wilt not let me go" and "How bright these Glorious Spirits shine" were sung.

The widow and sister (Mrs. Scott) did not attend the funeral, and the family mourners were Dr. Scott, brother-in-law; Mrs. Connell, niece; Mr. G. J. Murray  Atkins, brother-in-law; and Mrs. Binns, niece.

The Dowager Lady Forester and Lady Forester attended, also representing Lt. Col. Lord Forester, who was unable to attend owing to military duties. Others present were Viscountess Maitland, Lady Rouse-Boughton and Miss Rouse-Boughton, Lord de Vesci, Lady Acton (also representing Lord Acton), Capt. H. Thorn Pudsey, Mrs. Moore Stevenson, General H. D. O. Ward and Mrs. Ward, Mrs. Percy Kenyon-Slaney, Col. G. G. P. Heywood and Mrs. Heywood, Mrs. H. N. Dalton (Shifnal), Mr. and Mrs. Humphrey James, Capt. G. C. Whitman and Mrs. Whitman (Dudmaston), Mr. and Mrs. Hardy (Dudmaston), Col. Keyworth (Much Wenlock), Mr. Amos Cross (Ditton Priors), Mr. and Mrs. C. F. Wadlow (Posenhall), the Rev R. A. Giles (Sheriff-hales), Mr. J. T. M. Johnson (Dawley), Mr. C. A. Royster (Albrighton), Mr. and Mrs. Rowland Hunt, Mr. J. Hill, Mr. C. O. Dyas (Posenhall), Mr. C. T. Harrison, Major W. J. von M. Pendlebury, D.P.G.M. (representing the Province of Shropshire Freemasons), Mr. J. D. Clark and Mr. G. E. Smith (Alliance Insurance Company), Dr. F. W. H. Bigley (Much Wenlock), Mr. T. Pinder, Mr. and Mrs. T. H. Francis, Mr. W. Hall, Mr. W. Huson, Mr. P. Whiteman and Mr. G. Cox (The Wyke), Mr. and Mrs. S. A. Powell (The Dene), Mr. T. Chatham (Linley), Mr. Keith Barber, Mr. T. Jervis, Mr. A. H. Simpson, Mr. A. C. Walker (Morville), Mr. and Mrs, M. Alderson  (Bradley), Mr. J. Jones (representing Broseley Brotherhood), the Rev J. W. Isherwood and Mrs. Isherwood, Mr. R. Hotchkiss (Walton), Mr. and Mrs. F. Thomas (Marsh Farm). Mr. T. Wedge, Mr. J. W. Harrison, Mr. H. E. Bebb (Atterley), Mr. Bridgewater, Mr. Rowe and Mr. Clayton (Shirlett), Mr. T. Jones, Mr. C. P. Bates (Newcastle, Staffs.), Mr. and Miss Pitt, Mr.. W. Alderson, Mr. J. Davies, Mr. H. Davies, Mr. E. Vaughan, the Rev. F. J. R. Mason, Mr. Knott, Mr. R. P. Rooney Dougall (Land Agents' Society), Mr. M. Walker (Eynet), Mr. W. L. Phillips (Wenlock Assessment Committee), Mr. E. C. S. White (Broseley), Mr. R. York, Mr. F. Francis, Mr. A. Garbett, Mr. V. B. Bexon (Royal Insurance Company), Mr D. Ridley (Lloyds Bank, Broseley) and Mr. W. Andrews. The Much Wenlock Town Council and Corporation was represented by the Mayor (Councillor E. E. Bennett), Aldermen A. A. Exley, T. H. Thompson, E. D.  and C. R. H. Kane, Councillors O. Collins, Murphy, T. W. Howells, P. W. Parr, T. C Gibbs, the Town Clerk (Mr. F. W. Derry), Mr. F. Richards (Surveyor), Mr. C. J. Thomas (Sanitary Inspector).

Members of the Castle Lodge (Bridgnorth) of the Order of Freemasons included Messrs. J. E. C. Leach, W. Lockett, Preb. J. S. Jobling (chaplain), J. L. Barritt, J. L. Lloyd Jones, T. R. Sparrow, Dr. Pitchford, Mr. R. J. R. Haslewood (magistrates' clerk), and A. T. Jakeman.

Shirlett Sanatorium was represented by Mr. C. S. Asbury (secretary), Dr. Turner and Dr. T. R. Elliott.

The estate staff and workmen attended, including the estate clerk (Mr. H. Harper), Mr. H. Botfield (formerly clerk with Mr. Welsh), Mr. Grierson, and many others.

The Home Guard, under the command of Mr. E. A. Powell, formed a guard of honour at Barrow Church where the coffin was laid in a grave lined with hyacinths, tulips and moss, arranged by estate gardeners. The bearers were Messrs C. Rowe, L. Jones, N. Jones, J. Win-wood. J. Gainham and G. Sherwood.

The many floral tributes included wreaths from the following:—From his loving wife: From Leba, Kitty and Marie; Jimmy and Effie; Mr. Hadle Heam; The Mayor, Aldermen, Councillors and officials of the Borough of Wenlock; Mr. and Mrs. G. J. Broadhurst; Staff of the Borough of Wenlock Food Office: Mr. Bagley, Church Street, Broseley; Mr. and Mrs. P. Hunt; Willey Platoon Home Guard; Mr. and Mrs. C. F. Wadlow; Nellie and Margaret; Barrow School; Lord and. Lady Forester; The Dowager Lady Forester: The Directors,  Prestage and Broseley Tileries Company; Viscount and Viscountess Maitland; Christine and Juliet Brook; Mr. and Mrs. E. A. Powell; Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Hardy; Mr. and Mrs. S. A. Powell; Mr. and Mrs. C. F. :In-stone; Jack, Mrs. Morris, and Bill; Miss Finlay, Mrs. Macevoy, Mr. Crisp, Mr. Timmins and Mr. and Mrs. C. Jones; Harold and Mrs. Botfield; Harry Harper; Mr. and Mrs. C. Rowe and all at 63, Shirlett; Edward and Daisy, Rouse Boughton and Mary; G. and E. Grier-son; Mr. and Mrs. Grierson; Mr. G. J. Murry Atkins and Mrs Louie Binns; Mr. and Mrs. Mort and Muriel; Mr. and Mrs Colin Dyas; Mr. and Mrs. Tom Chatham and family; Mr. and Mrs. Alderson and Bernard Bradley; Mr. Richard Colley; and others.

There will be a memorial service at Willey Church on Sunday evening at 6-30 p.m.

BROSELEY

DANCE.—The Victoria Institute held a dance in the Institute on Saturday evening. Mr. E. E. Pettinger was the M.C.

BAPTISTS' ANNIVERSARY.—Sunday School anniversary services were held in the Baptist Church on Sunday, the preacher being Rev. Clements, of Madeley, who also presided at a musical service by the Sunday School in the afternoon. Under the direction of Mr. B. Jones items were given by Mrs. I. Boden, Mary Deval and Jean Owen. Mrs. Thomas was the organist. Collections for Sunday School funds amounted to 8 14s. 10d.

BOY SCOUTS.—At a parade of the All Saints' Troop held in the Rectory grounds on Wednesday evening under Scout-Master W. E. Britton and Troop Leader S. Waite, an inspection was made by the County Commissioner, General H. D. O. Ward, following which displays were given of first aid and camp cookery. The Commissioner gave a short address to the boys. The chaplain, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, and the County Association general secretary, Mr. C Southern, were also present.

LABOUR WHIST.—There was a good company at the Labour whist drive held in the Town Hall on Tuesday evening. Mr. W. Garbett was the M.C., and the prizewinners were: 1, Mrs. A. Pountney; 2, Mrs. C. Hall; 1, Mrs. P. Bagley; 2, Mr. J. Lloyd.

5th June 1941

BROSELEY

BAPTIST CHURCH—Continuation services in connection with the Sunday School anniversary were held on Sunday. Good congregations attended all services and there was special music by the choir and scholars. The preacher was Mr. A. S. Lane, Horsehay.

WHIST.—A successful whist drive arranged by the Garden Fruit .Committee was held in the Town Hall on Friday evening. The Rector, Rev. C. S. Jackson, was the M.C., and Mrs. Bowyer, Holly House, presented the prizes as follows:-1. Mrs. Whitmore; 2, Mrs. Jacks; 3, Mrs. T. Roberts; consolation, Mrs. Ward. 1 Mrs. Tonkiss; 2, Mr. Street; 3. Mrs. Pountney; consolation, Mrs. Smitheman.

DANCE.—There was a good company at the local Labour Party's dance in the Town Hall on Saturday evening. Mr. Heath acted as M.C., and spot prizes were won by Mrs. Onions and Mr. Tonkiss, and Mrs. McGill and Mrs. Aston.

MRS. MARY BODEN MARRIED.— The wedding took place at All Saints' Church on Saturday last of Mrs. Mary Boden, 50, Bridgnorth Road, and Mr. Harry Bagley, of Jockey Bank, Iron-Bridge. The Rector of Jackfield, Rev. F. J. R. Mason. officiated. The bride wore a two-piece suit of Air Force blue, with white jumper and navy hat and a spray of white carnations. Her bridesmaid was Miss Lily Boden, her daughter, who wore a grey coat over a floral dress, with grey hat and a spray of white Carnations. She carried a white handbag, a present from the bridegroom. On leaving the church the bride was presented with a silver horse-shoe by little Douglas Brown. The best man was Mr. T. Humphries.

BUFFALOES.—The Brethren of the O. D. Murphy Lodge, King's Head (Broseley), held a ladies' night at their headquarters on Sunday evening. Primo J. Newbound presided and an excellent musical programme was given by Bros. J. Gordall. S. Colley, M. A. Harris. T. Mason and L. Seddon. Bro, B. Wilkes recited. A solo was rendered by Mrs. T. Mason. Mr. Ron Taylor was at the piano. The chairman, who is a sergeant in the Home Guard, gave a very interesting talk on "Hitler's proposed invasion." He stressed the importance of everyone carrying their gas masks and it was agreed that anyone present who had failed to bring a mask be fined one penny. It is reported that Lodge funds benefited substantially from this levy.

DEATH OF MR. ALFRED HARVEY.— The death occurred on Tuesday of Mr. Alfred Harvey, The Woodlands Road, aged 56. He was a native of Shrewsbury and before coming to Broseley months' ago he lived at Church Stretton. His wife died in 1938 and he is survived by six sons and four daughters. Four of his sons are serving with the Forces. The funeral will be at Broseley Parish Church on Saturday.

BENTHALL

DEATH OF MR. ARTHUR WILDE.-- The death took place at the Villa, Benthall, on May 28, of Mr. Arthur Wilde, aged 71. He was for very many years employed by Messrs. S. R. Maw and Co., tile manufacturers, and later was engaged in dairy farming. He took a keen interest in the social life of the parish and was on the committees of many organisations. He had been a member of the Broseley Social Club since its formation. He is survived by the widow and one son. The funeral took place at Benthall Parish Church on Saturday, the Rector of Jackfield, Rev. F. J. R. Mason, assisted by Mr. E. C. S. White (lay reader), officiating. The service was choral, Miss Margaret Haynes being at the organ. The principal mourners were his son, Mr. Cecil Wilde, and Mr. Frank Davies, brother-in-law. Others present included Messrs. F. Mean. C. F. Wadlow, C. O. Dyas, P. Whiteman, Mr. Bennett, Mr. Humphries, Mr. Kelly and Mr. Ben Leggitt. The barers were Messrs. W. Harris, W. Cross, J. Cross, G. Cross, T. Aston and Mr. Bowler.

JACKFIELD

BAND CONCERT.—Jackfield Prize Silver Band gave their first promenade concert of the season on The Green at Free Bridge End on Sunday evening. The band was conducted by Mr. W. Ellis. A collection for the Services Knitting Fund. of the local Women's Branch of the British Legion amounted to £2 5s.

DANCE.—There was a large attendance at the dance held in St. Mary's Hall on Friday evening on behalf of the Hall Maintenance Fund and Mr. C. Cross was the M.C. The competition was won by Mrs. Tristham (Iron-Bridge).            Refreshments were served by Mesdames Green, Poole and Dodd.

BROSELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL

Afternoon Meetings to Continue

Broseley Council decided at their monthly meeting on Wednesday to continue holding their meetings in the afternoon.

The clerk, Mr. F. W. Derry, read a resolution from the Broseley Labour Party which had been referred to at a previous meeting. This suggested that, in order to bring Broseley into line with the vast majority of other districts, the council meetings should be held in the evenings so that working people could attend and ask for positions on the council, or submit others for election. It would give people an opportunity of attending after their work and remove a justifiable grievance long nursed by the people of the town.

Councillor the Rev, C. S. Jackson, who did not attend, wrote to say that he would have voted in favour of the resolution had he been present. He thought the time had passed when most men could spare the time to attend afternoon meetings.

Councillor Parr was the only member present who supported the resolution. He said that he had always been in favour of evening meetings.

Councillor Davies, opposing, said that he thought the present time was hardly suitable for drastic changes. The meetings had always been held in the afternoons, and he could not understand if the people had nursed a grievance so long, why they had not brought the matter up before. He was certainly not against people attending, but so many were busy in the evenings.

Capt. Collins said that he had been on the council 19 years and had heard of no grievance. He would not be able to attend himself if the meetings were changed.

Councillor Fletcher said that he had heard of the grievance, but he would move that they should continue as they had been doing for the period of the war. There had been and would be no elections during the war.

Councillor Gibbs seconded the resolution, which was carried, Councillor Parr voting against.

13th June 1941

BROSELEY

FLAG DAY.-- On behalf of the British Red Cross a Flag Day was hold in Broseley on Friday, the sum of £10 3s. 7d. being raised. Mrs. T. Goodall carried out the secretarial duties.

THE LATE MR. ALFRED HARVEY.— The funeral of Mr. Alfred Harvey, Woodlands Road, took place at All Saints' Church on Saturday last, the Rector, Rev. C. S. Jackson, officiating. The principal mourners were Miss Lucy Harvey, daughter; Mr. and Mrs. A. W. Harvey, Mr. E. A. Harvey, Mr. C. Harvey, Mr. S. Harvey and Mr. A. J. Harvey, sons and daughter-in-law; and Mrs. D. Turner. The bearers were Messrs. S. Garbett, J. Garbett, J. Newbound, A. Harrison, H. Southorn and W. Britton. Floral tributes were received from the following:— Daughter and Sons; Bill, May, and grandchildren; Arthur, Mary, and grandchildren; Lilian, Marjorie, and Joan (daughters); Lilian and Vic Hurst (brother and sister-in-law); Mr. and Mrs. Hodges (Shrewsbury); Mrs. Turner and family (Shrewsbury) ; Friends and neighbours, Woodlands and Quarry Road; Mr. Garbett and all at 25, Woodlands Road; Mrs. Davies, Mrs. Hall, and Mrs. Slater, Spuds Lane; Mr. and Mrs. Jacks.

JACKFIELD

FLAG DAY.—A flag day on behalf of the British Red Cross and Order of St. John was held on Friday. Arrangements were made by Mr. J. Harrison, and the sum of £4 2s. 3d. was raised.

YOUTH CLUB DANCE.—A dance organised by the Youth Club was held in St. Mary's Hall on Wednesday evening, when more than 200 people attended. An Air Force band attended and Corpl. Alex Greig acted as M.C. Spot waltz prizes were won by Mrs. L. Bowen and Mr. A. Carr, and other competitions were won by Miss A. Henderson and Mr. C. Gough. Prizes were presented by Mrs. E. Sykes. The organising committee were Misses E. Hadley, W. Wright, M. Harrison and A. Ellis, and Messrs. H. Storey, G. Jones, J. Bowen and D. W. Johnson, and the Rev. F. J. R. Mason was chairman of the entertainment committee. Competitions were organised by Misses J. Hallett and 3. Punford, and other efforts by Misses S. Gilbert and L. Welch.

20th June 1941

BROSELEY

LABOUR WHIST.—Mr. W. Garbett was the M.C. at the Labour Party's whist drive in the Town Hall on Tuesday, when the prize-winners were: 1, Mrs. H. Jacks; 2, Mrs. C. Hall; 1, Mr. W. A. Barnett; 2. Mr. R. Perks.

METHODISTS' ANNIVERSARY. —Sunday School anniversary services were held at Broseley Methodist Church on Sunday, when the school celebrated its centenary. Special Music was rendered by the children and choir. The preacher was Pastor Edwards, of Bridgnorth. In the afternoon Mr. Edwards presided at a musical service in which the scholars of the Infants' School took part. Solos were given by Joan Heighway and Franky Clapton, and recitations by Margaret Oakley and Elsie Pack. On Monday evening the musical service was repeated, and Mr. A. E. Evans (Iron-Bridge) presided and gave an address. Mr. Dennis Williams was at the organ throughout the festival and the musical items were conducted by Mr. F. Aston. The collections for Sunday School funds amounted to £4 4s. 2d.

DANCE.--There was a full house at the dance held in the Victoria Institute on Saturday. Mr. E. E. Pottinger was the M.C.

27th June 1941

BROSELEY

LABOUR WHIST.—Mr. R. Perks was M.C. at the Labour Party's whist drive in the Town Hall (Broseley) on Tuesday evening. The winners were: 1, Mrs. J. Casey; 2, Mrs. A. Pountney; 1, Mrs. N. Gerry and Mr. J. Lloyd.

LABOUR MEETING.—An open air meeting under the auspices of the Wrekin Divisional Labour Party was held in the Square, Broseley, on Saturday evening. Councillor J. Woollam, of Wellington presided, and introduced the prospective Labour candidate, Mr. J. D. Thomas, who spoke on the war situation dealing with armaments and the progress of the war, and suggesting preparations which might be made by the Government to deal with domestic problems when the war is over.

RUSSIA TO-DAY. — "Russia Today" was the subject of an address at a public meeting held in the Town Hall on Monday evening, over which the Rector, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, presided. The Hon. Ivor Montagu, well-known author and journalist, was the speaker.

FOUND IN RIVER.—The body of John George Jones aged 65, labourer, of 34, Church Street, Broseley, was recovered from the River Severn near Coalport on Tuesday evening. He was wearing a pair of shorts, and his other clothing and a towel were found on the river bank. He was well known in Broseley, where he had lived all his life. He was a retired baker, and afterwards became a tool presser employed by Messrs. Exley, of Jackfield. At the time of his death he was a Broseley Council road-man. He was a widower,' and is survived by his wife's sister. An inquest will be opened to-day.

4th July 1941

INQUEST ON BROSELEY MAN

Thought to Have Had Seizure While Bathing

A verdict of "Misadventure" was recorded by the Iron-Bridge coroner, Mr. F. W. Derry at an inquest on Friday on John George Jones (65), labourer, of 34, Church Street, Broseley, whose body was found in the Severn at Coalport on June 24.

The Coroner then read a statement signed by A.C. James Patrick O'Connor; who had since returned from leave, in which O'Connor stated that at 2.45 p.m. he was walking along the riverside at Gitchfield and saw a man sitting on the river bank. He was undressed, except for a pair of shorts, and was dangling his feet in the water. Later in the day he heard that an elderly man's body had been pulled out of the river, and he went to the spot. He saw the body and recognised it as that of the man he had seen earlier in the day.

Joseph Smith, a stoker of Dart Lane, Broseley, said that while he was undressing to bathe his wife and a niece walked along the riverside and saw Jones's' body in the water. He was told, and recovered the body with the assistance of an evacuee boy.

Smith said that Jones's clothes were neatly folded on the bank and there was also a towel. Jones was lying in about three feet of water.

Replying to Inspector Martin, witness said that from the position of the body the man might have stood up in the water and fallen forwards.

A sister of Jones said her brother, who was a widower, had not been well for about three weeks. From the age of 17 he had suffered from a bad heart. He sometimes had giddy turns and staggered about.

Dr. C. U. Whitney held the opinion that the man died from syncope, brought on by partial immersion in water while bathing.

The coroner in recording his verdict said that the whole evidence was against a death by drowning and he was of the opinion that Jones probably had a seizure or turn of giddiness while he was in the water. The Coroner expressed his thanks to the witness, Mr. Smith and the boy evacuee for the prompt action they took in recovering the body from the water and the assistance they had given the police.

Inspector Martin, on behalf of the police, associated himself with the Coroner's remarks.

In expressing sympathy with the sister of deceased, the Coroner observed that the only moral to be gathered from the tragedy was that it was highly dangerous for old people with weak hearts to immerse themselves in cold water.

BROSELEY

MISS N. J. SEABURY MARRIED.—The wedding took place at the parish church on Saturday of Miss Nora Jane Seabury, daughter of Mrs. Seabury and the late Mr. J. Seabury, 4, Poole's Yard, Church Street, and Mr. Alfred Langford, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Langford, Havelock Crescent, Much Wenlock. The Rev. C. S. Jackson officiated and the bride was given away by Mr. A. Barber. She wore a crushed strawberry figured marocain two-piece suit with hat to match and carried a bouquet of tea roses. Her gold bangle was the bridegroom's gift. The matron of honour was the bridegroom's sister, Mrs: Taylor, and the bridesmaid Miss Doris Evans, the bride's half-sister. They wore dresses of dusty pink floral crepe, with navy sailor hats. Master Bryan Wassail, the page wore a blue velvet suit with white blouse. The bridesmaids carried pink and blue sweet peas and wore gold brooches, the bridegroom's gifts. On leaving the church the bride was presented with silver horseshoes by Oliver Seabury, Bryan Wassail, Lily Ferrington, Coney Edginton and Ann Foyes. Clive Seabury gave her an ivory-backed hymn book. The service was choral, Mrs. Bickly being at the organ.

Broseley Farmer Found

Dead in Well

The death of a retired farmer who fell down a well in his garden was inquired into on Saturday by the Iron-Bridge and district coroner, Mr. F. W. Derry. The farmer was John Thomas Mear, Upper Riding Farm, Broseley, aged 77.

Mrs. F. Smith, Mear's housekeeper, said she arrived at the house on June 26. Mear was not there. She went to the well and looking down, saw his head below the surface of the water. The body was removed by Mear's son, who tried artificial respiration.

Witness paid he had not noticed any general change in Mear's demeanour of late. She had seen him at the well, getting water, but not for the past five or six weeks. She herself had nearly slipped in owing to the condition of the bricks and framework. She thought Mear had gone to the well out of curiosity to see which repairs were going to be done.

The son said that his father had told him he was tired. He suggested that his father had got into the well accidentally, saying that workmen were to have repaired the framework, and his father was interested in the work.

His father had a stroke 12 months last May and was in bed for some time. He then got about again but had a further seizure in May of this year. He usually walked with a stick. Witness said in reply to the Coroner that he had never heard his father threaten to commit suicide. His father had been drawing water from the well constantly for the past 50 years.  Dr. W. O. S. Hoy (Medical Practitioner, Broseley) said he was of the opinion that the cause of death was drowning, through falling in the well. There was a bruise on the forehead and bridge of the nose, but he could not say if this occurred before or after death. He had attended Mear for heart weakness a fortnight previously, when he seemed to have had a slight stroke and was dazed and would not talk.

In reply to the Coroner, the doctor said he had seen the well and in his opinion it would be very difficult for anyone to fall in accidentally. He would not expect to find them in a sitting position if that had happened. Mear did not give him the impression that he was tired of life. He saw him a fortnight before and the balance of his mind was not disturbed then.

P.C. Dean said that there were nearly four feet of water in the well, one foot below ground level. It had a dome shaped brickwork top, with a door at the front. For anyone to have got in accidentally was almost impossible.

Returning an open verdict, the coroner said it was a very difficult case, and he did not think anyone would ever know what happened. As the well was on ground level, it would be very difficult for anyone to fall in accidentally. At the same time he could not exclude the possibility that Mear had an attack of giddiness and fell in.

BROSELEY

LATE MR. JOHN GEORGE JONES,-- The funeral of Mr. John George Jones, 34, Church Street, particulars of whose death are recorded elsewhere, took place at the Parish Church on Saturday. The interment was at Broseley Cemetery. The mourners were Mr. J. Broadhurst and Mr. T. Broadhurst cousins. The bearers were fellow workmates of deceased, Messrs. J. Wall, A. Dodd, H. Thomas, T. Seabury, E. Garbett and S.  Garbett:

SCOUT INVESTITURE.—At All Saints' Church on Sunday morning, when the All Saints' Troop of Scouts were admitted to the Brotherhood of Scouting, the Troop was accompanied by the 4th Farnworth Troop (who are Camping in the district) and supplied the "Colour Party" for the occasion. The enrolling officer was Scoutmaster Eden of the 4th Farnworth Troop, and he was accompanied by Scoutmaster W. E. Britton and Assistant Scoutmaster K. Gainham (All Saints' Troop), together with the chaplain, the Rev. C. S. Jackson.

LABOUR WHIST.—Mr. J. Lloyd was M.C. at the local Labour Party's whist drive in the Town Hall on Tuesday, when the prizewinners were:-1, Mrs. H. Jacks; 2, Mrs. M. Molineaux; 1, Mr. T. Corfield; 2, Mr. J. Lloyd.

MILITARY WEDDING.—The wedding took place at All Saints' Church, Broseley, on Saturday of Miss Hilda Mary Lane, second daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Lane, and A/C.1. Frederick L. A. Glenn, youngest son of Mr. Henry Glenn and the late Mrs. Glenn, of Birmingham. The Rev. C. S. Jackson officiated. The bride, given way by Mr. John Allen, wore an ice blue dress with burgundy trimmings, and a spray of red carnations. She was attended by her sister, Mrs. A. Doran, and her niece, Miss R. Garbett. Her sister wore a pink Less with brown accessories, and her niece a dress of ice blue satin with navy trimmings.  The best man was Mr. H. Allen.

MISS SHEILA M. OAKLEY MARRIED. --At the Parish Church on Saturday, the Rev. C. S. Jackson officiated at the wedding of Miss Sheila May Oakley, younger daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Will Oakley, 31, High Street, and Mr. Frederick Dennis Darrall, only son of Mr. and Mrs. F. G. Darrall, Bennett's Bank, Wellington. The bride, who was given away by her fattier, wore a gown of white lace over taffeta, with train, headdress of white roses and veil. Her gold wristlet watch was the bridegroom's gift. She was attended by her sister, Mrs. C. M. Watson Bartlam, and the Misses Amy James and Pauline Fowler, Who wore dresses of pink lace over taffeta, with ruched velvet sashes and large picture hats. They carried bouquets of pink delphiniums. There were also two small attendants, the bride's cousin, Edith Smith, and Jane Parry Billings. They wore satin frocks and carried posies of mixed flowers. The best man was Mr. W Martin (Wellington). The reception was held at the Social Club and later Mr. and Mrs. Darrall left for Blackpool, the bride travelling in a cherry coat over cream cloth dress. Mr. and Mrs. Darrall will live at Shrewsbury.

LATE MR. JOHN THOMAS MEAR.— The funeral of Mr. John Thomas Mear, Upper Ridding, Farm, Broseley, particulars of whose death appear on another page, took place at All Saints' Church, Broseley, on Monday, the rector, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, officiating. The interment was at Broseley Cemetery. The principal mourners were Mr. William Mear and Mr. Fred Mear, sons; Mr. and Mrs. Frank Mear (Malvern), son and daughter-in-law; Francis and Gillian Mear, grandchildren; Mr. Cecil Wilde, nephew; Mr. and Mrs. T. Smith. Others present were Messrs. A. H. Norgrove, W. Smith, T. Instone, P. Boden, W. Dodd, T. Edwards, J. Lankfin, J. Evans, Mrs. Ashwood and Mrs. Price and representatives of Court of the Green A.O.F. The funeral oration was read at the graveside by Brother J. Watkins, The bearers were Messrs. Frank Watling, Charles Maiden, Leonard Minton, Alfred Pountney, Walter Dairies and Robert Ashwood. Floral tributes were received from the following:—"Son Will;" "Frank and Elsie (Son and daughter-in-law) ;" "Francis and. Gillian;" "Sister Nance;" "Ciss and Gladys, nephew and niece;" Mr. and Mrs. E. A. Powell (Linley), Mr. and Mrs. S. A. Powell (Deane); "Mrs. Kearn and Rex (Deane) ;" "Mrs. N. Smith and Wilfred;" 'Foresters' Arms;" Mr. and Mrs. T. W.  Edwards and Mr. J. Edwards (Church Street); "Frances, Tom, Rosemary and Beryl (8, Rough Lane);" "A. J. and I. Price, The Hurst;" Mrs. Hill and family, Carvers Road; "Mrs. Sherwood and Polly, Rudgewood;" "Mr. and Mrs. Ash-wood, Will and May, Chapel Terrace;" Mr. and Mrs. P. Boden and family, Madeley; "Walter, Jackfield;" Mr. and Mrs. E. Garbett, Broseley; Mr. and Mrs. A. White, Jackfield; Mr. L. Minton and family, Round House; Mr. and Mrs. T. A. Instone, Broseley; Mr. and Mrs. Bert Norgrove (Rowton) ; Mr. and Mrs. Salter and family. (The Folly); "Charlie and Florrie Butler, Rough Lane;" "Jack and Laurie Evans, Rough Lane;" The Misses and Mr. Instone, 69, High Street.

11th July 1941

BROSELEY

FILM SHOW.—There was a good I audience in the Town Hall on Friday evening last, when a film show of nature and sporting subjects was given by Miss Pitt, M.F.H. Much interest was taken in the various films, particularly those showing the natural haunts and manners of various animals. There was a film reminding  everyone of sowing corn in the good old days by old time " broadcasting." The programme included two hunting scenes in a picturesque setting on the Brown Clee. Miss Pitt, who is master of the Wheatland Hunt, acknowledging a vote of thanks, said she hoped to be able to keep hunting going in a small way during the war, and without the use of any food required for human consumption.

HOME GUARD WHIST DRIVE.— Organised by the local Platoon of the Home Guard a very successful whist drive was held in the Town Hall, Broseley, on Wednesday evening. There were 34 tables for whist, and the M.C. was Mr. R. A. Yorke. Mrs. Ward, Linley Hall (wife of Major-General H. D. O. Ward, the local Company commander), presented the prizes as follows:-1, Mrs. E. Watkins; 2, Mrs. P. E. Davies; 3, Mrs. P. Archer; consolation, Mrs. Bridgwater; travelling prize, Mrs. Preece; special. Mrs. R. Smith; 1, Mr. R. Gorman; 2, Mr. Wilfred Garbett; 3, Mr. E. D. Ridley; consolation, Mr. J. Powell; travelling prize, Mr. D. Cope; special, Mr. B. Perks. Various competitions were arranged, the winners being Mrs. Chatham, Miss M. Higginson, Mrs. Herd-man and Mrs. O'Brien. A vote of thanks was accorded Mrs. Ward by Mr. T. W. Howells (Platoon commander). The refreshment buffet was in the charge of Mesdames F. Mear, C. O. Jones, D. Cope, R. Davies, S. C. Yates, R. A. Yorke and A. J. Garbett. The secretarial duties were carried out by Mr. A. J. Garbett. As a result of the drive the funds of the local Platoon have benefited to the extent of £20.

LABOUR WHIST.-Mr. J. Lloyd was M.C. at the local Labour Party's whist drive in the Town Hall on Tuesday evening when the prizewinners were :-1, Mrs J. Casey; 2, Mrs. L. Fielding; 1, Mrs. N. George (as gent.); 2, Mr. J. Lloyd.

18th July 1941

WENLOCK BOROUGH COUNCIL

Chancellor's Thanks

For Free Gift to the Country of £492

Wenlock Borough Council, at its quarterly meeting on Wednesday, received a letter from the Chancellor of the Exchequer thanking the Council for the sum of £492 5s. 10d. as a gift to the country, representing a large portion of the surplus proceeds of voluntary efforts and entertainments organised in the borough during War Weapons Week.

Sir Kingsley Wood asked that his thanks should be conveyed to all concerned, together with his appreciation of the spirit which had prompted their help.

The Council decided that the salary of the Chief Billeting officer should be increased to £208 per annum on condition that he paid his assistant £104 per annum and provided accommodation, including fire and lighting.

PAYMENTS TO BILLETING OFFICERS

The General Purposes Committee had considered the position of other billeting officers in the borough and recommended certain honorariums to these, with the warmest thanks of the Council and appreciation of the services they had rendered in carrying out the billeting scheme.

They recommended honorariums as follows:—Mr. W. F. Parslow (Much Wenlock), £25; Mr. J. Davis (Broseley), £25; Mr. T. W. Wragg (Iron-Bridge), £25; Mr. H. R. Shaw (Madeley), £25; Mr. P. J. Maddox (Coalbrookdale), £15; Mr. Gwynne (Benthall), £15; Mr. Gibbs (Jackfield), £15; Mr. J. Duckworth (Coalport), £5.

It was reported that a letter had been received from the Ministry of Health with regard to these proposed honorariums making deductions in certain cases. The Council, however, felt that the Ministry should agree to these as they were, and the Town Clerk (Mr. F. W. Derry) was instructed to communicate with the Ministry to that effect.

The Council agreed to the appointment of Mr. Wilson as assistant to the Chief Billeting Officer.

Mr. F. Richards (Borough Surveyor) was appointed salvage officer for the borough, and it was decided that the amount of his salary or honorarium should be determined by the General Purposes Committee when they were fully conversant with the duties he had to perform.

FIRE WATCHING

The Council decided that fire watching in connection with the municipal offices and old Police Court at Wenlock should be included in a group scheme, and that the officers using these buildings should be requested to act as fire watchers.

In connection with evacuation, Miss Durst, of the Ministry of Health, at tended a meeting of the General Purposes Committee, and gave a report upon the desirability of the Council appointing a welfare worker for the borough. The Council approved of a recommendation by the committee that after sanction had been received from the Ministry, such a position should be advertised at a salary of £200 to £250 per annum, according to the qualifications of the person appointed, who must reside within the Madeley Wood district.

JACKFIELD

PROMENADE CONCERT.—The Jackfield Silver Band, under its conductor, Mr. W. Ellis, gave an excellent promenade concert on the Memorial Bridge Green on Sunday evening in aid of the local W.V.S. comforts fund. The collection taken amounted to £1 8s. 9d.

BENTHALL

DEATH OF MRS. C. A. HARRINGTON. —The death occurred on Saturday at 50, The Mines, Benthall, of Mrs. Clara Alice Harrington, widow of Mr. Thomas Harrington, aged 70. She had lived in the district all her life, being the second daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs William Bennett, of Easthope Coppice, Broseley Wood. The funeral took place at the Parish Church, Benthall, on Tuesday. The chief mourners were Mr. and Mrs. A. Bennett, brother and sister-in-law ; Mr and Mrs. T. Ball, brother-in-law and sister; Mr. W. Oliver (Bangor-on-Dee), brother-in-law; and Masters L. Bennett and P. Bennett, nephews. Others present were Mr. and Mrs. T. Powell, Mr. T. Lawrence, Mrs. A. Hastie, Mrs. P. Hastie, Mrs. Stott and Miss Stott, of Hull. The bearers were Messrs R. Rowe, R. Taylor, W. Denstone, F. Williams, G. Boden and C. Russell.

BROSELEY

WHIST.—Mr. W. Garbett was M.C. at the Labour Party's whist drive in the Town Hall on Tuesday. There was a good attendance and the prizewinners were:-1, Mrs. J. Casey; 2, Mrs. A. Pountney; 1, Mrs. C. Hall; 2, Mrs. Hough.

DANCE.—A successful dance (in aid of general funds) was held in the Victoria Institute on Saturday evening. The room was crowded, and Mr. E. E. Pollinger was the M.C.

28th July 1941

BROSELEY

LABOUR WHIST.—Mr. J. Lloyd was the M.C. at the local party's whist drive in the Town Hall on Tuesday evening, when the prize-winners were: 1, Mrs. J. Casey; 2, Mrs. J. Lloyd; 1, Mrs. L. Fielding (as gent.); 2, Mr. C. Hall.

WHIST.—There were 28 tables at the whist drive organised by the Church Social Committee in aid of The Beeches Wireless Fund, and held, in the Town Hall on Wednesday evening. The M.C.'s were the Misses A. Garbett and R. A. Yorke. At the conclusion the rector, Rev. C. S. Jackson, introduced Mr. Carter, the master of the Beeches Hospital, who distributed the prizes as follows: 1, Mrs. A. Lloyd; 2, Mrs. H. Burd; consolation, Mrs. Roberts; 1, Mr. C. Davies; 3, Mrs. George; consolation, Mrs. D. Mason. Refreshments were served by Mesdames C. Davies, W. Davies, J. Broadhurst, A. J. Garbett, Cope, Street, D. Smith, R. A. Yorke, and Mrs. P. Davies. The secretarial arrangements were carried out by Mrs. C. Davies.

BENTHALL

WOMEN'S INSTITUTE. — By invitation of Mrs. T. W. Howells the monthly meeting of the Benthall was held in the grounds of Hurst Lea, on July 17. Some 45 members were present and

Mrs. Walter Davies presided. A by talk on gardening was given by Miss Heron, of the Salop County Council staff. Tea was served, the hostess being Mrs. Howells. The members afterwards enjoyed a tour of the grounds.

DANCE.—The Victoria Institute held another successful dance in the Institute on Saturday evening, over 150 being present. The M.C. was Mr. Pottinger.

1st August 1941

TWO BROSELEY SCOUTS DROWNED

While Bathing at Sheinton

Warning Disregarded

Two Broseley Scouts who set off for a cycle run on Sunday, halting at Sheinton, near Cressage, to bathe, lost their lives when they got into difficulties in a deep part of the river. They sank before help could reach them.

The boys were Laurence Howard Ellis Humphries, aged 13, of 64, New Road, Broseley; and Thomas Samuel Goodall, aged 15, of 31, Workhouse Road, Broseley. After repeated dragging on Sunday and again on Monday their bodies were eventually recovered from a hole in the river bed only a few yards from where they first disappeared.

About 16 boys were in the party, in the charge of a scoutmaster and troop leader, and they had been warned about swimming below a certain mark in the river where it could be waded without difficulty.

When the boys were found struggling in deep water two other boys who were swimmers, the scoutmaster and three men called from the railway made efforts to get to them, but without success.

Dragging operations were carried out by Messrs. Rogers, of Iron-Bridge, two brothers who are well-known locally for their knowledge of the Severn for many miles in this neighbourhood, and after the inquest on Tuesday they were warmly thanked by the police for their efforts.

The inquest on the two boys was held at Sheinton Rectory on Tuesday, being conducted by Major R. W. B. Crawford Clarke (Shrewsbury and District Coroner).

Evidence of identity was given by Arthur Rhodes, plant attendant, of 6, Carvers Road, Broseley, in respect of his stepson, Laurence Howard Ellis Humphries, of 64, New Road, Broseley; and by Thomas Goodall, station policeman, of 31, Workhouse Road, Broseley, in respect of his son, Thomas Samuel Goodall, of the same address. Both witnesses stated that their boys were "fair swimmers."

SCOUTMASTER'S WARNING

Dennis Venn, labourer, of 4, Bridge Road, Broseley, stated that the Broseley Scouts set off on a cycling tour on Sunday, and when they arrived at Sheinton, Humphries had something to eat. Before they started bathing the scoutmaster sent one boy to wade across from bank to bank. The water did not reach up to his middle. The scoutmaster then told them they could go into the water to bathe, but they were not to go below the spot where the river had been crossed. There were about 16 of them in all. Later he saw the two boys lower down the river than where they were told they might go. The next thing he saw was Goodall's head above water with his arm upstretched. Humphries's head was under the water and he appeared to be under Goodall's arm. Both went under and he did not see them again.

Cyril Rowe, aged 16, of 66, Coronation Street, Broseley, said he was a troop leader in the Broseley Boy Scouts. At Sheinton they stopped to bathe in the Severn. He gave no instructions to the boys but left that to the scoutmaster He was swimming in the river and tested it for bathing. Just below there was a hole in the river bed where the water was very deep.

Walter Ernest Britton, of 6, Pools Yard, Broseley, stated that he gave instructions to the boys who were going into the water to keep where it was safe, which was above the spot where the river could be waded across without difficulty. Later in the afternoon he heard a shout "Sam is going under." He immediately called to two boys who were swimmers, but they could not reach the spot where the boys had disappeared. Witness stripped but met with no success. He called for help and three men came, but they were unable to find the boys.

Jim Rogers, of 11, Severnside, Iron-Bridge, stated that he had known the river in that neighbourhood all his life. When he received information that two boys had been drowned at Sheinton he dragged the river for the remainder of the day without success, and again the following day. Then he found the boy Humphries and about an hour later recovered the other body. The bodies were fairly close together, and the water would be about 12 feet deep. There was rather a strong under current at the spot and the bank was shelved under.

The Coroner found that death was due to drowning and recorded verdicts of "Accidental death" in each case.

FUNERAL OF BROSELEY SCOUTS

Victims of River Tragedy

The funeral of the two Broseley Scouts who were drowned while bathing at Sheinton on Sunday took place yesterday.

Scout Thomas S. Goodall was buried at All Saints' Church. He was born in Broseley and attended the Council School, and was a member of the Church Sunday School, the Victoria Institute, and Cricket Club. He was Assistant Patrol Leader in the All Saints' Troop of Scouts.

The Rev. C. S. Jackson, assisted by Mr. E. C. S. White (lay reader), officiated and the choir was in attendance, with Mr. Ron Yorke at the organ. A guard of honour was formed at the church gate by the members of All Saints' Troop of Scouts, under Scoutmaster Britton, and the standard bearer was Assistant Scoutmaster K. Gainham. The principal mourners were:—Mr. T. Goodall, father; and Mr. W. Dinstone and Mr. T. Ball, uncles. Among others present were Messrs. F. S. Francis and T. Meredith (Social Club), T. Hough (Cricket Club), F. W. Davies (British Legion), A. J. Garbett, C. Hough and E.

E. Aston, several lady members of the Broseley branch of the British Legion, Mr. J. Jones (Sunday School), Mr. J. Tisdale (Station Police, Buildwas). Mr. F. A. Smith (Fitting Shop, Coalbrookdale Works), and many others. The bearers were fellow members of the All Saints' Troop of Boy Scouts.

Wreaths were sent by:-Dad, .Mum, Brothers and Sisters; Auntie Eff and Uncle Will; Molly; Nancy, Cyril and Daphne; Two Pals, Jim and Ivor; Brother Little Bill; Mr. and Mrs. Will Shaw; Mr and Mrs. J. Herriman; Mr. and Mrs. Edwards and Margaret; Mr. and Mrs. Jones, Bob and Fred; Mr. and Mrs. J. Davies, Bob and Clare: Mr. and Mrs. Anthony; Mr. and Mrs. R. Picken; Mr. and Mrs. R. A. Jones, Allan and Barbara; Trustees, Committee Members, Victoria Institute; Mr. and Mrs. E. E. Austin. Enid, Tom, and Douglas; Mrs. G .Denstone: The Officers and Committee of Boy Scouts; Brother Scouts; His Pal. Bill; Mr. and Mrs. Lane and Ken; Sheinton Vicarage; Mr. and Mrs. Dick Jones; Mr. and Mrs. Ritchings and family; Mr. and Mrs. Jack Oakley and family: Chairman and Committee Members British Legion; The Station Police Guards, Buildwas; Mr. and Mrs. J. Evans and Lena; Mr. Williams and Broseley Youth Club; Mrs. B. Williams and Mrs. Marlow; Ida; Mrs. Fred Oakley and family; Broseley Methodist Sunday School; Mrs. Sneyd, Jack and Phyl; Pal Dick; Workmates (Fitting Shop): His Pals, Eric, Ronnie and Dick; Tom and Jimmy Meadows: Mr. and Mrs. Ward, Vera and Noel; From all Laurence's family; Mr. and Mrs. Whitmore and Graham; British Legion (women's section); Mr. and Mrs. T, Meredith and Linda.

The funeral of Scout Lawrence Howard Ellis Humphries, 13 years, was at Broseley Methodist Church. Also a native of Broseley. Scout Humphries was a member of the Methodist Sunday School and choir.

The service, which was choral, with Mr. Denis. Williams at the organ, was conducted by the Rev. David Jack (Iron-Bridge). The bearers to the church were fellow members of his Sunday School class. The All Saints' Troop of Scouts formed a guard of honour under Scoutmaster Britton, with C. Rowe as standard bearer. At the cemetery the coffin was carried to the graveside by fellow Scouts.

The mourners were his mother and step-father; Mr. T. Humphries, grandfather; the Misses E. and J. Humphries, aunts; Mr. E. Humphries, uncle; Masters John and Charles Rhodes. half-brothers; Mrs. H. Doughty. Miss R. Colley, Mr. F. Davies, Mr. F. Rhodes and Mr. R. Davies, cousins; others present were Mr. A. Evans, Mr. W. Jones, Mr. E. Chadwick, Mr. C. R. Jones, Mr. C. Thomas, Mrs. A. 0. Jones, Mrs. F. C. Howells, Mrs. C. Thomas, Mrs. Eaton and Miss Eaton, Mr. P. Simpson (headmaster) and scholars from C. of E. School, also scholars of the Sunday School. Mrs. J. Davies, Miss C. Davies, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, Mr. E. C. S. White. Mrs. W. Cox, Mr. D. Bradley, Mrs. H. Bagley, Mrs. S. Hill, and others.

Floral tributes were received from the following:—Mother, Father. Sisters and Brothers; Mom and Dad, Ern, Ede, and Jean; Uncle Jack, Aunty Mabel, Rob and Clare; Aunty Nora and Uncle Ted; Uncle Arthur, Aunty Nell, and family; Aunty Beck, Wrekin View, Iron-Bridge; Will and Agnes, cousins (Iron-Bridge); Uncle Jim, Aunty Bessie, and Stanley; Uncle Charlie, Aunty and family; Herbert and all at Dark Lane. Broseley; Madelaine and Harry (Jackfield); Broseley Methodist Crusaders' Club; The Methodist Choir; Officers, Teachers and Scholars, Methodist Sunday School; Brother Scouts, Officers and Committee, All Saints' Scouts; Trustees. Committee, and Members, Victoria Institute; Staff Sheinton Rectory; Staff and Boys at Sheinton Rectory; Sheinton Village; All the neighbours, Council Houses; Mrs. J. Eaton and Miss M. Eaton; Mr. and Mrs. T. H. Potham; Mr. and Mrs. C. Everall and family; Parents and family of Sammy: Mr. and Mrs. F. G. Aston and David: Mr. and Mrs. G. Morris and family; All at 24, 26, and 28, New Road; David Powell, Mrs. and Miss Birkley-Dingwall; Mr. and Mrs. Harrison, Albion Inn: Mr. and Mrs. Britton (Carvers Road); Tony and Betty Burns (New Road): Mr. and Mrs. Aston and Vincent; Mrs. Venn, and Brother Scouts. Dennis. L. and C. Chadwick; Mr. and the Misses Bell (School House): Mr. R. A Gwynne; Mr and Mrs. Rhodes (Madeley): Mrs. Sneyd. Jack and Phil: Sister Davies (Beeches); Marjorie (Madeley); Mrs. Gainham and family: Ken (Wolverhampton): Mr. and Mrs. Jones and family (The Square): Mrs Dora Smith and Mrs. Cox: Mr and Mrs. C. J. Burrs (Garage. Broseley;Mr and Mrs. Jim Harris (Carvers Road); Miss Instone (High Street); Mrs. Sanders and family (Carvers Road); Mrs Childs (Carvers Road): MrsMrs Hill, Jennie and family (Carvers Road); Laura Childs and Mrs Collins; Mr and Mrs Anthony; Margaret Meredith (High Street); Broseley Boys’ School.

BROSELEY

OLD INHABITANT'S DEATH. -The death occurred on Friday last at 21, Church Street, Broseley, of William Rowe, aged 81 years. He was a native of Broseley and was for some years a member of the old Volunteers. At the age of 12 he entered the service of the Broseley Tileries, Ltd., and continued in their employ as a warehouseman for over 60 years, retiring at the: age of 75. His father was also in the service of the Tileries, and the combined service of father and son with the firm covered over 100 years. The late Mr. Rowe was a staunch churchman. He is survived by three daughters, his wife having died 35 years ago. The funeral took place at All Saints' Church, Broseley, on Wednesday afternoon, with interment at the cemetery. The Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector) officiated. The principal mourners were Mrs. Briscoe, Mr. and Mrs. H. R. Bradburn, and Mrs. Howlett, daughters and son-in-law; Master Ted Bradburn, grandson; the Misses M. and J. Rowe, nieces. Others present were Mr. Allen, Alderman E. A. Collins (representing Broseley Tileries), Mr. A. J. Garbett, Mr. and Mrs. Hall, Mrs. B. Jones, Miss L. Garbett, and Mrs. E. Jones. The bearers were Messrs. C. Davies, V. Aston, D. Jones. R. Taylor, J. Roberts and T. Seabury. Floral tributes were received from the following:-“Lucy"; "Gert and Bert”; "Gladys and Jack": "Christine and Ted": "Loue and family": "Aunt Lizzie and the girls”: Mr. and Mrs. Wallett and Grandma; Mr. and Mrs. Hall: " All at 22 and 24, Church Street: " Belle” Mr. and Mrs. Davies and family, 25, Church Street; Mr. and Mrs. T. Meredith; the Misses A. and M. Taylor; "Cissie, Louie, Walter and Gert. Reynolds"; Mr. and Mrs. Salter: "Friends at Woodside. Coalbrookdale”; "Staff of Church of England Schools. Broseley"; Mrs. Smallman and Joseph.

BENTHALL

DEATH OF MRS. E. R. TERRY. — The residents of Benthall learned with regret on Wednesday of the death that day at the age of 77, of Mrs. Elizabeth Rosa Terry, of the Old Vicarage. and widow of the Rev. W. A. Terry, for many years vicar of the parish (Benthall). Mrs. Terry, who was a native of Lincolnshire, came to reside in the parish on the appointment to the Vicarage of her husband and she rendered him great assistance with his work in the parish. Mrs. Terry was beloved by all who knew her and was an untiring worker in the social life of the district. The funeral takes place at Benthall parish Church on Saturday.

15th August 1941

BROSELEY

MISS M. E. JONES MARRIED.— The wedding took place at All Saints' Church on Saturday, of Miss Margaret Eileen Jones, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Jones, 13, Duke Street, Broseley, and Mr. Edgar Rolands Hands, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. E. Hands, Birchfield, Victoria Road, Much Wenlock. The Rev. C. S. Jackson officiated and the service was choral, with Mr. Ron. Yorke at the organ. The bride was given away by her father. She wore white figured satin with full-length tulle veil and wreath of orange blossoms, and carried a bouquet of red roses. She was attended by her cousin, Miss Della Chamberlain, and Miss Delia Hands, the bridegroom's sister, who wore floral figured satin with floral head-dresses and carried posies. The best man was Mr. W. S. Crawford.

22nd August 1941

BENTHALL

MISS RASON'S DEATH. — The death occurred on Sunday last at The Rectory, Benthall, of Miss Mabel Rason, aged 42. She was, a native of Perth, Australia, being the third daughter of the late Sir Cornthwaite and Lady Rason. Her father was an ex-Premier of West Australia and came to this country as Agent General in 1906. He died in 1927. The late Miss Rason was a niece of the late Mrs. Terry of The Rectory, and came to reside there from Brighton some twelve months ago. She spent much of her life in London where she was well known, being a great worker and organiser for charity. Her mother, Lady Rason, was a sister of the late Rector of Benthall, the Rev. W. A. Terry. She is survived by one brother in Australia and one sister who resided with her. The funeral will take place at Benthall on Saturday.

DEATH OF MRS. ETHEL SMITH.--The death occurred on Sunday in the Royal Salop Infirmary, following an operation, of Mrs. Ethel Smith, wife of Mr. F. T. Smith, Hill-Rise, Bridge Road, at the age of 44. She was a native of Wolverhampton and came to reside in the district nine years ago when her husband was transferred to the local station of the West Midland Electricity Authority. Mrs. Smith was a member of the local St. John Ambulance Corps and the Benthall Women's Institute. She had travelled extensively and during the Great War was in Canada, where she worked untiringly with the St. John Ambulance. She is survived by her husband and one daughter. The funeral' took place at the Parish Church, Benthall, on Thursday, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, Vicar, and Rector of Broseley officiating. The principal mourners were the husband; Miss Dorothy Smith, daughter; Mr. and Mrs. S. North (Wolverhampton), brother and sister-in-law; Mrs. H. North (Glasgow), sister-in-law; Mrs. A. Witherford (Wolverhampton), sister; Mrs. F. Cookson (Wolverhampton), sister-in-law. Among others present were Mr. and Mrs. S. Wood, Mr. and Mrs. Watkiss (Bowers Yard), Mr. T. Jeffries, Wenlock), Mrs. A. Bennett and the members of the Benthall Women's Institute. The bearers were Messrs. A. Bennett, T. Lawrence J. Beaman, J. Hendley, D. McCarthy and H. Giles.

BROSELEY

DEATH OF MR. W. H. HARVEY.—The death occurred on Wednesday at 3, Woodlands Road, Broseley, at the age of 63 of Mr. William Henry Harvey, He had lived in the same house all his life. After leaving Broseley School he entered the service of the Coalbrookdale Iron Company as an iron worker and remained with the company until his illness some six weeks ago. He was a bachelor and lived with his brother. The funeral takes place at Broseley Parish Church on Saturday.

SUNDAY SCHOOL OUTING. — The annual Sunday School outing in connection with All Saints' Church Sunday School took place on Wednesday, when scholars, accompanied by teachers and the rector, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, Journeyed by train to Shrewsbury, where an enjoyable time was spent.

WHIST.—Organised by the Church Social Committee, a well-attended whist drive in aid of the church clock renovation fund was held in the Town Hall on Wednesday evening. The M.C's were Messrs, W. Davies and Ron Yorke, and Mrs. J. Broadhurst distributed the prizes as follows:-1, Mrs. Fielding; 2, Mrs. Walters; 3, Mrs. S. Broadhurst; 1, Mrs. S. Leavers; 2, Mr. Jones (Willey); 3, Mr. Gallier.

DANCE.—The Victoria. Institute had a full attendance at the dance in the Institute on Saturday evening and an enjoyable time was spent. Mr. F. Perkins and his orchestra were in attendance and Mr. E. E. Pottenger was the M.C.

CHURCH PARADE.—The United Friendly Societies Hospital Sunday Church Parade was held on Sunday. The parade assembled at Broseley Wood, and, headed by the Jackfield Silver Band, proceeded through the town to the Parish Church.. The preacher was the Rev. H. F. Howell, principal of Walker Technical College, Oakengates. Those taking part in the parade were the Home Guard, St. John Nursing Division, with cadets and auxiliaries; St. John Ambulance Brigade, A.F.S. and A.R.P., Boy Scouts, the Mayor (Councillor E. E. Bennett), the Town Clerk (Mr. F. W. Derry), Aldermen and Councillors of the borough, police and members of the special constabulary, and various friendly society lodges in full regalia. Up to the time of going to press the collection amounted to approximately £19. The parade was organised by Broseley Friendly Societies Hospital Committee under the chairmanship of Mr. J. Watkins, with Mr. T. Minton, hon. secretary, and Mr. J. Burns, hon. Treasurer.

29th August 1941

BENTHALL

LATE MISS MABEL RASON.—The funeral of Miss Mabel Rason, who died at Benthall Rectory on August 17, took place at the parish church on Saturday, the Rev. C. S. Jackson (Rector of Broseley) officiating. The chief mourners were Miss Edith Rason, sister; Miss Phillips, Miss M. Gainer, Colonel and Mrs. G. G. P. Heywood, Capt. Wickin, and Nurse Maule and Nurse Gutsell  The bearers were Messrs. J. H. Cross, W. Cross, S. Gallier, G. Whitmore, G. Thomas and A. J. Barber. Floral tributes were received from the following:—Sister Edith; Brother Ernest; B. M. Terry (cousin); Margaret Evans; Miss Phillips; Mrs. G. G. P. Heywood; The Misses N. and C. Hamilton; Mrs. Floyer-Benthall and Gay; Nurses Maule and Gutsell; Margaret Gallier and Jack Aston; Mr. and Mrs. R. Owen; Mrs. Marsh and Muriel; Miss Fletcher; Mr. and Mrs. Smith.

5th September 1941

BROSELEY

THE LATE MR W. H. HARVEY.—The funeral of Mr. William Henry Harvey, 5, Woodlands Road, Broseley, who died on August 20, took place at Broseley Wood Mission Church on Saturday. Mr. E. C. S. Roberts officiating. The interment was at the cemetery and the committal was taken by the Rector, the Rev. C. S. Jackson. The principal mourners were Mr. S. Harvey, brother; Mrs. Roden (Nuneaton), sister; Mrs. A. Harvey, sister-in-law; and Mrs. B Harvey, niece. Among others present were Messrs. J. Brown, H. Evans, E. Morgan, W. Wood, G. Venn, E. Bowen and Mr. Langford. The bearers were Messrs. H. Southern, S. Garbett, J. Gittings, J. Bowen, T. Ball and Mr. Harris.

JACKFIELD

AIR FORCE WEDDING.—The wedding took place at St. Mary's Church, Jackfield, on Saturday, the rector, the Rev. F. J. R. Mason officiating at the choral ceremony of Miss Florence Joan Regina Evans, W.A.A.F., eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E. Evans, 15, The Lloyds, Iron-Bridge, and A/C. Robert Clive McSorley, R.A.F., third son of Mrs. McSorley and the late Mr. J. McSorley, 72, Penybryn Avenue, Cefn Forest, Pengam. The bride, who was given away by her father, wore a gown of white satin with veil and coronet of orange blossom intertwined with pearls. She carried a bouquet of bronze chrysanthemums and wore a gold R.A.F. brooch, the bridegroom's gift. She was attended by her sisters, the Misses Iris and Freda Evans, and Miss Joyce Laudener, WA.A.F., who wore pale blue taffeta with headdresses and veil to match, and carried bouquets of pink roses and sweet peas. Their bracelets were the bridegroom's gifts. There were also two small attendants, the bride's brother, Peter Evans, in blue velvet shorts and white silk blouse, and Maureen Westwood, who was in pink crepe de chine frock with headdress to match. The best man was the bridegroom's brother, Mr. Frederick McSorley. At the church door the bride was presented with silver horseshoes and silver bells by Maureen and David Westwood. Among the presents received was a canteen of cutlery from the staff of the R.A.F. station at which the bride and bridegroom are serving.

BROSELEY

DEATH OF MRS. E. DUDLEY—The death took place at her home, 2, Barrett's Hill, on Tuesday of Mrs. Emily Dudley, aged 75. She had lived in the district all her life, being born in Cape Street. She had lived at 2, Barrett's Hill, for 50 years, Mrs. Dudley was a member of the local Mothers' Union. She had been an invalid since an accident some three years ago. She is survived by six daughters, her husband having died some 20 years ago. The funeral will take place at Broseley Parish Church tomorrow (Saturday).

DANCE.—A very successful dance arranged by Mrs. Hoy and committee on behalf of the Broseley Nursing. Division was held in the Town Hall on Friday evening. The large company included Lord and Lady Forester.

12th September 1941

BROSELEY

WHIST.—Mr. R. Perks was M.C. at the Labour Party's whist drive on Tuesday, when prize winners were:— 1, Mrs. A. Pountney; 2, Mrs. J. Roberts; 1, Mr. R. Perks; 2, Mr. T. Corfield.

LATE MRS.. EMILY DUDLEY.— The funeral of Mrs. Emily Dudley, 2, Barretts Hill, took place at the Parish Church on Saturday, the Rev. C. S. Jackson officiating. The principal mourners were Mrs. Gallier and Mrs. Roberts, daughters; Mr. Lane (Horse-hay), Mr. J. Gallier, Mr. S. Gallier, and Mr. James (Nordley), sons-in-law; Miss Gallier, niece; Mr. T. Miles, brother-in-law; Mr. T. Miles, jun., Mr. R. Preece, Mr. S. Jones, Mr. S. Jonas and Mr. R. Gallier, nephews; Mrs. Molyneaux, Messrs. A. Beddows, R. Heighway, and J. Tisdale. The bearers were Messrs. H. -Tonkiss, E. Carter, H. Halley, T. Garbett, F. Gough and E. Molyneaux.

26th September 1941

BROSELEY

WHIST.--Mr. R. Perks was M.C. at the fortnightly Labour whist drive held in the Town Hall on Tuesday evening, the prize winners being, 1 Mrs. L. Fielding 2 Mrs. S. Roberts; 1 Mr. R. Perks, 2 Mr, J. Lloyd.

BAPTIST BI-CENTENARY.-Two centuries of ministry and teaching have been celebrated in Broseley this week by services to commemorate the bi-centenary of the old Baptist Church, Harris's Green (Broseley). There were large congregations at services conducted on Sunday by the Rev. A, S. Langley (secretary of the West Midland Association). On Wednesday afternoon and evening special thanksgiving services were conducted by Mr. E. Fisher (president of the West Midland Association). The preacher was the Rev. H. Ingli James (Coventry), Other speakers included the Rev. Glyndwr Morgan (president of the Shropshire district), the Rev. C. S. Jackson (Rector of Broseley) and the Rev. David Jack (Iron-Bridge).

3rd October 1941

MUCH WENLOCK

POLICE COURT

Broseley Orchard Raided

Before Tuesday's police court at Much Wenlock commenced, the Mayor (Councillor E. E. Bennett) paid a tribute to the late Alderman William Bishop, and the court stood for a few minutes in silence.

Seven youths were summoned for stealing pears from a garden.

Christiana Crimson, of Broseley, said that at 6 a.m., on August 11, she went into her garden and found that all the flower's had been trampled down, the branches of her pear tree were broken and lying across the road, and the pears were gone. These she valued at 15s.

Four of the youths concerned were from Broseley, and three from Madeley. From statements they made to the police it appeared that two or three of them went into the garden while the rest stayed in the road. They all shared in the proceeds. All the boys except one had clean records. The exception, a Madeley youth, had three previous convictions. He was fined £5 and ordered to pay 5s. 4d costs. The Mayor told him that if he came before the Bench again a very severe penalty would be inflicted. The other youths were bound over for 12 months and ordered to pay 5s. 4d. costs each

ALIEN'S OFFENCE

Elfriede Fent, married woman, Strethill Farm, Iron-Bridge was charged with being a German alien and travelling from Iron-Bridge to Oxford without the necessary permit.

It was stated that on August 10 she went to Iron-Bridge police station and said she was leaving for Oxford. She was told she ought to have a permit, but she said she did not think that was necessary. She did not sleep at Strethill that night.

Defendant said that there was nothing in her identity book which was issued two years ago, to tell her that she had to have permission to travel. She had no wireless set, and she rarely read the papers. Her husband had been interned and taken to Australia, but when it was found that he had been working against the Nazis for four years he had been released, and he was now on his way back to England.

Defendant was fined £2, and given 28 days in which to pay.

BROSELEY EXPECTS HARD WINTER

Council to Purchase Snow Plough

At the monthly meeting of the Broseley Town Council on Wednesday the clerk, Mr. F. W. Derry, congratulated Mr. Hartshorn, the collector, on the way in which he had got in arrears of rent on council houses.

It was decided to go ahead with the purchase of a snow plough for the town. The surveyor, Mr. F. Richards, said that the cost of this would be £95, but the Ministry of Transport would make a 50 per cent grant towards this. This decision was conditional on the County Council's agreement to pay for all clearance carried out on roads under their control.

It was suggested that a white line be painted down the centre of Dark Lane, but Mr. Richards said this would be inadvisable as people would walk along it as a guidance in the darkness and would run considerable risk from traffic.

BROSELEY

LOCAL TRADESMAN MARRIED. —Much interest was taken in the wedding at All Saints' Church on Saturday of Miss Mary Oswell, only child of Mrs. and the late Mr. A. G. Oswell, Lion Hotel, to Mr. John Basil Dixon, youngest son of Mr. and the late Mrs. A. N. Dixon, The Downs, Broseley. The service, at which the Rector, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, officiated, was choral, and Mr. R. A. Yorke was organist. The bride wore a gown of white satin and lace, with full length veil and wreath of white camellias. She carried a bouquet of pink rosebuds. Given away by her great uncle, Mr. O. Briscoe, she was attended by the bridegroom's sister-in-law, Mrs. D. Dixon, and Miss Mary Instone, who wore dresses of mauve taffeta with black picture hats and carried bouquets of mauve stocks and sweet peas. The best man was the bridegroom's brother, Mr. Donald J. Dixon, and Mr. R. D. Dixon acted as groomsman. After a reception at The Lion, Mr. and Mrs. Dixon left by car for Aberystwyth, the bride travelling in a blue tweed suit with accessories to tone. Both bride and bridegroom are life long residents of the district. The bridegroom is in business as a newsagent and tobacconist and the bride has for some time been on the teaching staff of the local church schools.

LABOUR PARTY. — The winners at the Labour Party whist drive on Tuesday at which Mr. R. Parkes was M.C., were Mrs. E. Harrison, 2 Mrs. E. Roberts; 1 Mrs. N. George. 2 Mrs. M. Molyneaux. The competition winner was Mr. Lloyd.

MISSION CHURCH.—Harvest festival services were held in Broseley Wood Mission Church on Sunday when there was a good display of fruit, vegetables, flowers, etc. Special music, suitable to the occasion, was rendered and the services were conducted and sermons preached by Mr E C. S. White. Miss A. Lloyd was at the organ.

SERVICES FUND. — A ladies' whist drive on behalf of the Services Christmas Appeal Fund was held in the Town Hall on Wednesday afternoon. Mrs. J. Broadhurst was M.C. and Mrs. E. C. S. White distributed prizes to: —1 Mrs. George; 2 Mrs. Jones, 3 Mrs. Britton.

CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH.—Harvest festival services were held in the Congregational Church on Sunday. The special preacher in the afternoon was Mrs. H. S. Skitt and in the evening Mr. H. G. Skitt, both of Birmingham, and the lessons were read by the Misses Margaret and Ann Webb, of London. Special music was rendered by the choir, with Mr. T. Poole as soloist and Mrs. W. S. Williams was at the organ. Collections for church funds amounted to £7 10s. 5d.

DANCE. — A dance on behalf of the local Services Christmas Appeal Fund was held at the Victoria Institute on Saturday evening. There was a large company present. Spot prize winners were Mrs. F. Clapton and Mr. B. Shaw, Miss B. Molyneaux and Mr. A. Southern. Mr. Pott's prize was won by Mr. J. Jones, who gave it back, and as a result of a mock auction it realised £1 15s. 3d. Mr.. E. E. Pottinger's prize was won by Mr. A. Lewis and realised £1 1s. The prizes were distributed by Mrs. T. W. Howells and Mrs. P. W. Parr. Refreshments were served by Mesdames G. N. Ball and H. C. Hall. Councillor T. W. Howells, chairman of the fund, thanked the committee and all who had helped in the effort which produced £13 16s. 4d.

NATIONAL SAVINGS. — Broseley National Savings group during the summer campaign set out to save enough money by September 30 to purchase a heavy ambulance. The group more than accomplished its aim and in addition has saved enough for two Bren Guns. The honorary secretaries of the group are Miss Taylor and the Rev. C. S. Jackson.

10th October 1941

BROSELEY

SAVINGS APPEAL. - In a further effort to augment the local "Services Christmas Appeal Fund," a dance, arranged by Mrs C. Hall, was held in the Victoria Institute on Friday evening. Mr R. A. Jones, junior, was M.C. The programme included spot and other competitions. The spot prizewinners were Miss M. Hurdley and Mr H. Watkins, Miss Nesbit and Mr White, Miss Betty Boden and Miss V. Dodd. The competition winners were Mr T. Stimes, Mr Sarene and Mr E. Pothenger. The amount raised was £14 3s. 4d.

LADIES' EFFORT. — In an effort to further augment the Christmas Services Appeal Fund a ladies' whist drive, organised by Mrs. J. Broadhurst, was held in the Town Hall on Wednesday afternoon. There was a good attendance and Miss Lister presented the prizes to, 1 Mrs. Molyneux, 2 Mrs. Young. 3 Mrs. Instone.

LABOUR WHIST. — Mr. W. Garbett was M.C. at the local Labour Party's whist drive in the Town Hall on Tuesday evening when the winners were 1 Mrs. A. Pountney, 2 Mrs. S. Roberts: 1 Mr. T. Corfield, 2 Miss M. Molyneaux. A competition on behalf of the Services Christmas Appeal Fund was won by Miss Molyneaux.

24th October 1941

WENLOCK TO ELECT

YOUNGEST MAYOR

Councillor P. W. Parr

Shrewsbury Lady Will be Mayoress

Possibly the youngest Mayor-elect ever chosen for the Borough of Wenlock, Councillor Percy William Parr, of Benthall House, Broseley, who is a representative of the Broseley Ward, is nominated to succeed Councillor E. E. Bennett. He is twelve months younger than was the present Lord Forester when he was elected Mayor in 1936.

Aged 36, Mr. Parr was first elected to the Council in 1935, and was re-elected in 1938. He is a member of the Finance and General Purposes Committee. He has a coal merchant business in Broseley.

The decision that he should be invited to serve was made at an informal meeting of the Council on Wednesday, when he was proposed by Alderman E. D. Collins and seconded by Councillor T. W. Howells.

Mr. Parr was born at Plaish Park Farm, Cardington, and was educated at the County High School. Coalbrookdale. His wife was formerly Miss Embrey, of the Bricklayer's Arms, Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury.

In his younger days he was a very keen cyclist, and won many prizes on the racing track.

He has taken a great interest in public affairs, and is a member of many committees and organisations. He is chairman of the Broseley Schools Football Competition, the Broseley Victoria Institute, and the Broseley Carnival Committee; vice-chairman of the services appeal fund; and a committee member of the British Legion and the Borough of Wenlock A.T.C. He is also an Air Raid Warden.

JACKFIELD

BOY'S DEATH.—Much sympathy is felt in the district with Mr. and Mrs. E. Evans, 15, The Lloyds, Iron-Bridge, in the death on October 6 at the Lady Forester Hospital, Broseley, of their eldest surviving son, Vernon Mostyn Giovanni, aged nine. Vernon, who attended Jackfield School, was a member of St. Mary's (Jackfield) Church Sunday School and the King's Messengers. Thus Mr. and Mrs. Evans have lost three sons, one as an infant, and their eldest son, Sergeant Air-gunner and Wireless Operator Joseph Evans, R.A.F., who won the Air Force Medal, was killed in action some 11 months ago. The funeral took place at St. Mary's Church, Jackfield, on Tuesday, the rector, the Rev. F. J. R. Mason, officiating. The service was choral, Mrs. Mason being at the organ. The mourners were Mr. and Mrs. Evans, parent§; Mr. and Mrs. McSirley, R.A.F. and W.A.A.F., brother-in-law and sister; the Misses Iris and Freda Evans, sisters; Miss Potts and Mrs. Fielding (Leeds), aunts; Mr. A. Thomas and Mr. and Mrs. T. Evans, uncles and aunts; the Misses Elain and Roma Thomas, and Miss Hazel Evans, and Mr. W. Jones, cousins. The bearers were five fellow King's Messengers and old boys of Jackfield School, Eric Hughes, Donald Johnson, Graham Weale, Allan Yorke and Colin Evans. Floral tributes were received from the following: "Mum and Dad"; "Freda Maldwyn and Peter"; "Joan, Iris and Clive"; "Aunty Maud and Aunty Neva"; "-Uncle Dan, Aunty Em. and cousins"; "Uncle Tom, Aunty Annie, Hazel and Colin"; "All the neighbours at the Lloyds"; "Jackfield Sunday School;  "Teachers and scholars of Jackfield School"; "King's Messengers"; Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds, Margaret and Cyril; Mr. and Mrs. Ander-• son and Owen; " Harry, Joe, Hilda and children"; Mr. and Mrs. Lycett  and family; Mr. and Mrs, W. Dicken; and " Joey Handley." As the cortege proceeded from the church to the cemetery it passed through a guard of honour of scholars of Jackfield School.

BROSELEY

ANGLO-SOVIET UNITY: --A public meeting arranged by the Broseley and District Committee for "Anglo-Soviet Unity " was held in the Town Hall on Sunday evening last. There was a large company present, and the meeting was presided over by the Mayor of Wenlock, Councillor E. E. Bennett. The speaker was the Rev. W. Bryn Thomas, M.A., who dealt at length with conditions in Russia.

BAPTIST CHURCH.—Harvest festival services were held on Sunday, when the preacher was the Rev. A. S. Clements (Madeley). Special music was sung, Mr. Burns being the organist. The day was also the occasion of special gifts for Shirlett Sanatorium, and many gifts of groceries and provisions were received. The day's collections, amounting to £2 14s., were for church funds.

MISS NANCY BROWN MARRIED.—The wedding took place at All Saints Church on Saturday, the Rev. ,C. S. Jackson officiating, of Miss Nancy Gertrude Brown, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Brown, 35, Duke St., and Mr. George Gittings, South Staffs Reg., second son of Mr. and Mrs. G. Gittings, of Pooles Yard Broseley. The bride who was given away by her brother, Mr. E. Brown, wore a dusty crepe gown, with hat to tone and a spray of dark red roses. She carried a prayer book. Her bridesmaid was the bridegroom's sister Miss Rose Gittings, who wore a pink striped two piece with hat to tone and a spray of pale pink roses. She wore a gold brooch, the bridegroom's gift. The best man was the bridegroom's brother Mr. C. Gittings (Royal Horse Guards).

WHIST.--Mr. R. Perks was M.C. at the Labour Party's Whist Drive in .the Town Hall on Tuesday evening, when the prize winners were 1, Mrs. L. Fielding; 2, Mrs. J. Lloyd; 1, Mrs. E. Tinker; .2, Mr. T. Corfield. The prize gives by Mrs. Casey on behalf of the Services Christmas appeal fund was won by Mr. R. Perks.

DARTS AND DOMINO LEAGUES,—A meeting of representatives of darts and domino teams in the town was held at the Crown Hotel on Friday, under the chairmanship of Mr. E. Wilde to consider the advisability of forming darts and domino leagues. After a general discussion it was decided to form both leagues and Mr. Wilde was elected chairman (joint), with Mr. W. J. Ritchings hon. secretary. It is hoped that at least eight teams will enter for each league.

BENTHALL

MISS M. GALLIER MARRIED.—The wedding took place at the Parish Church on Saturday, the Rev. C. S. Jackson officiating, of Miss Margaret Gallier. daughter of Mr. Joseph Gallier and the late Mrs. Gallier, Hockley Bank, Broseley, to Mr. John Aston, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Aston, of Benthall The bride, given away by her father, wore a wine coloured wool dress. With hat to tone and a skunk fur the bridegroom's gift. She carried a bouquet of pink carnations and maidenhair fern. Her bridesmaid was her niece. Miss Dorothy Gallier, who wore a cashmere frock in salmon pink shade with a mauve hat and a pendant, the bridegroom's gift. She carried yellow chrysanthemums. The best man was Mr George Gittings. Both bride and bridegroom are well known locally. The bride. was previously in the service of  Mrs. Terry, Benthall Vicarage. The bridegroom and best man are serving together in the forces.

7th November 1941

BROSELEY FIREMEN'S COMPLAINT

Inadequate Water Pressure

Complaints that the water pressure in Broseley was not sufficient for fire fighting purposes were made at a meeting of Broseley Council on Wednesday.

Councillor Davies said that the firemen were very much perturbed over the matter. They had a demonstration outside the Town Hall and with one jet they could not reach the third storey of a building, and with two jets the height of the arc was not more than 18 feet. In the old days it was possible to throw water over the Town Hall. He understood that the outlet to Broseley was not turned full on.

The water engineer (Mr A. O. Callear): It is a pack of rot. The water is on full.

Councillor Jackson suggested that the pipes might be affected in the same way as house pipes, by corrosion.

It was suggested that perhaps more water was being used by householders nowadays.

The Water Engineer said that the pressure would depend on this and on the height of the water in the reservoir. He asked permission to test the pressure with the fire brigade.

This was granted, and he was told to show the brigade how to turn off the town supply to increase the pressure.

BROSELEY

LABOUR WHIST.—Mrs. N. George was M.C. at the Labour Party's whist drive in the Town Hall on Tuesday evening, when the prizes were won by: 1, Mrs. L. Fielding; 2, Mrs. S. Roberts; 1, Mr. W. Leabury; 2, Mrs. N. George. The Services Christmas Fund prize was won by Mrs. George.

FORMER FLYING OFFICER'S DEATH. — The death occurred on Monday of Flying Officer Ernest Frank Elliott, Sutton House, Speeds Lane, Broseley, at the age of 49. He was a native of Brighton and came to the district two years ago, holding an important position with Messrs. Fisher and Ludlow, Coalbrookdale. He served throughout the last war with the R.A.M.C., and later with the R.F.C. and R.A.F., and saw much service in India and the East. Since the outbreak of the present war, he has held important posts with the R.A.F., his last appointment being at a local aerodrome. Mr Elliott is survived by his widow, two sons and one daughter. His eldest son is at present an officer with the R.A. in the Middle East and his second son is serving with the R.A.S.C. in Iceland. The funeral takes place at All Saints' Parish Church, Broseley, tomorrow.

HOME GUARD WHIST DRIVE.— To augment the local services Christmas appeal fund, a whist drive, arranged by "A" Company, 6th Shropshire Home Guard, was held in the Town Hall on Friday evening. The M.C. was Mr. Ronald A. Yorke. The prizes were distributed by Mrs. Ward, wife of Major General H D. O. Ward, (Company Commander), as follows:— I.. Mrs. W. Seabury: 2, Miss Caine: 3. Mrs. Molyneux consolation. Mrs. Hadley: 1, Mr. C. A. Bowen: 2, Mrs. J. Leadbetter (as gent):

Mr. R. Perks: consolation, Mr. J. Powell. Other prizes were won by Mrs. Anderson, Mr. A. O. Jones. Miss M. Evans, Mrs. O. Jones, Mr. E. Lees and Mr. A. J. Garbett. The refreshment buffet was managed by a ladies committee, under the direction of Mrs. T. W. Howells. As the result of this effort the funds will benefit to the extent of over £35.

CARNIVAL DANCE. — To augment the local services Christmas appeal fund a successful carnival dance arranged by a number of Londoners at present in the district, was held in the Town Hall on Wednesday evening. The organiser of the idea was Mrs Wye, who unfortunately had to leave before the event. There was a special engagement of the "Inkslingers " Band, and the M.C.'s were Messrs. H. Wye and C. Johnson.  The hall was crowded and the costumes were both comic and original. There were prizes galore for various competitions, and the carnival spirit prevailed throughout the evening. The winners of the various competitions were: Fancy dress. 1, Miss Towler; 2, Mrs R. Bennett; 1, Mr F. Grimmon; 2. Mr E. E. Pottenger; best couple, Miss D. Evans and Mr T. Williams; spot prize, Mr and Mrs James; statue prize. Miss Oakley and Mr Clemson. Other competition winners were Mrs Leadbetter, Mrs Bartholomew and Mr T. Austin. The profit is expected to be substantial.

JACKFIELD

FORMER RESIDENT'S DEATH.— News has been received of the death at 145, Wolverhampton Road, Cannock, on November 3, of Mr. John Potts, aged 59. Son of the late Mr. and Mrs. T. B. Pritchard, 38, Lloyd's Head, he attended Jackfield School and was later employed at a local brick works. He afterwards left to take up a post at the Rosemary Brick Works, Cannock, of which he was foreman. His widow and two sons survive him. The funeral took place at Cannock on Wednesday.

IRON-BRIDGE

DEATH OF MR. C. ROWE.—The death occurred in hospital on Saturday of Mr. Charles Rowe, aged 82. He was a native of Shirlett, and had lived for the past eight years with his son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Bradley, 14, Hodge Bower, Iron-Bridge. He made many friends during that period. Mr. Rowe was for many years employed on the Willey Estate. He later went to Knightley, and afterwards to Steeraway, Wellington. He was a life-long member of the "Pride of the Village" Court of Foresters, was a trustee, and had filled all the Court offices. The funeral service took place at the Parish Church on Wednesday, the rector, the Rev. E. Roberts, officiating, and the interment was at Broseley Cemetery. The mourners were Mrs. Groom, daughter; Mr. and Mrs. T. Bradley, son-in-law and daughter; Mr. J. Rowe, brother; Mrs. C. Rowe, niece; Mrs. R. Fowles (Buildwas), niece; Mrs. G. Hayward, and Mr. J. Hughes. The bearers were Messrs. J. Jenks, R. Humphries, H. Smith and F. Hanley. (Floral tributes were received from the following:— " Daisy, Will and the girls "; "May and Tom, Edna and John"; "Brother Jim and family"; "Herbert and family"; "Will, Harriett and the girls"; Mr. and Mrs. Hayward and Gwen; Mr. and Mrs. W. Whiteley and family; "Little Pat"; "Neighbours, Hodge Bower"; "Friends, The Crown, Hodge Bower"; Mrs. E. Stephan and family; "Madeley Wood Bible Class"; Mr. and Mrs. J. Hughes and family.

14th November 1941

JACKFIELD

BRITISH LEGION. — The annual meeting of the men's branch was held on Monday evening, Mr. J. W. Harrison presiding. The hon. secretary, Mr. B. Dodd, reported an increase in membership. Mr. W. Ellison, presenting the accounts, stated that after meeting all liabilities there was a balance in hand of £10.. Mr. T. W. Howells was unanimously elected president. The committee was re-elected en bloc, and will elect its own officers. A vote of thanks was accorded the retiring hon. secretary and treasurer for their work on behalf of the branch.

YOUNCEST WENLOCK MAYOR

Councillor Percy William Parr, who was unanimously elected Mayor of Wenlock, is the youngest Mayor to hold office for many years.

Mrs. M. Parr, the Mayoress, is a Shrewsbury lady, formerly Miss Eileen Embrey, of the Bricklayers' Arms, Abbey Foregate.

Alderman E. D. Collins, proposing the election of Mr. Parr, said that he was well-known in the Broseley ward- particularly in social activities.

Councillor W. Howells, who seconded, said that youth was shouldering big responsibilities in this war, and he was sure Councillor Parr, as Wenlock's youngest mayor, would be a success. Mrs. Parr, too, would see that the borough's social activities were not neglected.

Support came from Alderman Roberts. Alderman Thompson, Councillor Murphy, and Councillors Davies and Jones.

Replying, the Mayor said there were strenuous days ahead, and more work and sacrifice must be made. The peaceful countryside played its part with the towns in the fight for freedom. This was said to be our finest hour. We, then must use 60 seconds of every minute, for total war de total effort.

The Mayor asked all those who he wished to help to come forward. He said there was no excuse for anyone to idle in the market place saying they had not been invited.

He closed with the call for Much Wenlock to help to lay the foundations of the better England.

Alderman Roberts and Alderman Owen thanked the retiring Mayor and Mayoress, Councillor and Mrs. E, E. Bennett.

In the course of his reply, Mr. Bennett mentioned that he and the Mayoress had attended over 160 events during the year. Referring to War Weapons Week, he said that after much hard work the great total of £165,000 was raised. He thanked the Town Clerk for his co-operation in the year, and was sure that as long as he was in office the Mayor would have a good helper. He hoped his successor would bring in the peace.

Councillor Bennett was appointed deputy mayor in succession to Alderman Kay, and Councillor the Rev. C. S. Jackson was appointed Mayor's Chaplain.

At an informal reception held after the meeting Alderman Collins proposed the health of the new Mayor and Mayoress.

BROSELEY

THE LATE FLYING OFFICER E. G. ELLIOTT --The funeral of ex-Flying Officer Ernest Frank Elliott, Sutton House, took place at All Saints' Church on Saturday, the Rector, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, officiating. The interment was at Broseley Cemetery. The mourners were: —The widow; Miss J. N. Elliott, daughter; Mrs. P. E. Elliott, mother; Mr. and Mrs. A. V. Elliott, brother and sister-in-law ; Capt. and Mrs. Greenland, brother-in-law and sister-in-law: and Mr. F. Meyrick. Among others following were Messrs. E. Rutherford, J. B. Dixon, R. Webb, Nurse M. Paton and Miss K. Griffin, and representatives of Messrs. Fisher and Ludlow, and Mr. C. Harrison. The bearers were eight fellow employees of Messrs. Fisher and Ludlow, namely, Messrs. W. Patch. F. Randall, W. Howells, F. Dodd, A. Hadley, G. W. Wozencroft, R. Smith and H. W. Edgerton. Floral tributes were received from the following:—Wife and daughter; Roy and Buster (sons); Mother; Bert, Nora, and family, brother-in-law and sister-in-law; Dot and Arthur, sister-in-law and brother-in-law; Wing Commander Tad-man and family; Roy Newton and family; Fred and all at 35, Bridgnorth Road; Celia and Len; Ernie Rutherford (Fisher and Ludlow); Annie and May (Fisher and Ludlow); Bernard Deakin and C. Wedge (Fisher and Ludlow); Mr. Harper and Aircraft Production Staff; Mr. and Mrs. Davies, Kellen and John; General Office and Maintenance Staff (Fisher and Ludlow); Stores and Inspection Staff; Stores Staff; Employees No. 1 Shop; Employees No. 2 Shop; Employees Foundry Department; Barker's Canteen, Manageress and Staff.

DEATH OF MRS. SELINA MATTHEWS.—The death occurred on Tuesday last at the home of her daughter, Mrs. G. Oakes, The Firs, Dark Lane, of Mrs. Selina Matthews, aged 83. She was a native of Willey, but had lived in Broseley for 60 years. She and her husband, Mr. John Matthews, will be well remembered as proprietors for many years of the old Hand and Tankard Inn, which has since been closed. Mrs. Matthews is survived by her husband (who is 86), one son and two daughters. The funeral takes place today.

LABOUR WHIST.—Mr. R. Perks was M.C. at the Labour Party's whist drive in the Town Hall on Tuesday, when the prize winners were 1 Mrs. S. Roberts. 2 Mrs. J. Casey; 1 Mr. W. Seabury, 2 Mr. R. Perks. The competition for the Services Christmas Appeal Fund was won by Mr. Perks.

DARTS LEAGUE. — Results:— 1 Foresters Arms, New Inn 6; 7 Duke of York, Lion 0.

DOMINO LEAGUE.—Results:— 419 Lion, Lord Hill 382; 385 New Inn, King's Head 381; 405 Crown. Duke of York 397; 402 Albion, Elephant 376.

SOLDIERS' FINE EFFORT.—To help the Services Christmas Appeal Fund a whist drive organised by members of the Broseley Wood Mission was held on Wednesday evening. Councillor C. O. Dyas was M.C., and the Mayor and Mayoress of Wenlock were present. Mrs. C. O. Dyas distributed the prizes as follows:-1 Mrs. A. Tomkiss, 2 Mrs. Wickard, 3 Mrs. Wempson; 1 Mr. Wickard, 2 Mr. V. George, 3 Mr. Gregory. Refreshments were in the hands of Miss A. Lloyd and Mrs. Bryce and members of the Mission.

POPPY DAY. — Broseley Poppy Day has resulted in the amount of £38 0s. 91d. being raised on behalf of Earl Haig's Fund. The collection was organised by Mrs. T. Goodall.

21st November 1941

In connection with the Broseley Branch of the British Legion was held in All Saints' Church on Sunday. The address was given by the Rev. C. S. Jackson, and Mr. Ron Yorke was organist. The parade included the Home Guard, nursing section of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Boy Scouts, members of the local A.R.P. services and auxiliary fire services. Lieut. T. W. Howells (Home Guard) was in charge.

DANCE. — The annual dance arranged by the local branch of the British Legion was held in the Town Hall on Friday evening, on behalf of the Services' Christmas Appeal Fund. Among those present were Lord and Lady Forester, Lady Maitland, Mr A. Colegate, M.P., and Mrs Colegate, the Mayor and Mayoress of Wenlock (Councillor and Mrs P. W. Parr), Councillor T. W. and Mrs Howells, Mr and Mrs Pinder, Mr Ridgwell and Miss Hamilton, and officers of the Forces. There was a special engagement of Eric Heath and his Band. Various competitions were held, the winners being Mrs Wilkes, Mr and Mrs Price (Linley), Miss Sturgeon and Mr Taylor. Refreshments were served by the Ladies' Committee. The Mayor (who is vice-chairman of the Appeal Fund) thanked the Legion for its financial support of the fund. The arrangements were carried out by the Entertainments Committee of the men's and women's branches, with Mr W. J. Ritchings chairman and Mr J. Goodall hon. secretary.

DARTS LEAGUE.-Results of matches played on Friday:—New Inn 1, King's Head 6; Albion 3, Foresters Arms 4; Lord Hill 2, Duke of York 5.

DOMINO LEAGUE. — Result of matches played on Monday:—Lord Hill 391, Crown 396; King's Head 397, Albion 368; Duke of York 406, Lion 388; Elephant 347, New Inn 405.

WHIST.—In aid of the Services Christmas Appeal Fund a successful whist drive, organised by the joint Darts and Domino Leagues, was held in the Town Hall on Wednesday evening. The Mayor and Mayoress of Wenlock were present and the M.C. was Mr. G. Whitmore. The prizes were distributed by the Mayoress as follows:-1 Mrs. G. Williams, 2 Mrs. J. Evans, 3 Mrs. S. Roberts, 4 Mrs. Jacks; 1 Mr. C. A. Jones (Willey), 2 Mr. W. Street, 3 Mr. F. Mears, 4 Mrs. T. Corfield. The competition winner was Mr. Licence, of Madeley. Refreshments were served by Mesdames George, Perks, Cookson, Humphries and Armstrong. The Mayoress was thanked by the league secretary, Mr. J. Ritchings. The Mayor thanked the organisers for their assistance to the fund, which he said was the finest thing Broseley had ever done.

LATE MRS S. MATTHEWS.—The funeral of Mrs. Selina Matthews, 19, Barretts Hill, Broseley, who died on November 11 at the home of her daughter, Mrs. G. Oakes, took place at Broseley Parish Church on Friday. The

Rector, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, officiated. The mourners were Mr. Walter Matthews, son; Mrs. A. G. Oakes, daughter; Mr. F. Francis, son-in-law; and Mrs. Jones (Horsehay), cousin. The hearers were Messrs. Barber, Gallier, Ashwood, Bright and Langford.

BENTHALL

WOMEN'S INSTITUTE. — The annual general meeting of the Benthall Institute was held on November 13, Mrs. W. Davies presiding. The hon. secretary, Mrs. Renwick, presented her annual report, which was considered very satisfactory. The statement of accounts and balance sheet was presented by the hon. treasurer, Mrs. W. Andrews, and showed a small balance in hand. Officers and committee for the ensuing year were elected as follows:—President, Mrs. T. W. Howells; vice-presidents, Mrs. W. Davies and Mrs. Bayfield; hon. treasurer, Mrs. W. Andrews; hon. secretary, Mrs. Renwick; committee, Mesdames Gregory, Jakeways, G. Thomas, Hoy, and A. O. Jones. It was reported that the preserving centre in connection with the branch had made this season 2,033lbs. of jam, which had all been distributed locally. The meeting received a visit from Mrs. Peake (voluntary county organiser), who gave an interesting talk on the work and organisation of women's institutes. A vote of thanks was accorded to the hon. treasurer and hon. secretary for their work.

JACKFIELD

SOCIAL. — A social evening was held in St. Mary's Hall on Wednesday evening. The programme consisted of dancing, games and sketches. The "King's Messenger" portrayed scenes of Indian life and Mr; Norman Hudson and Mr. Leslie Welsh also gave items. Mr J. Pumford was the M.C. for the dancing and Mrs. Ethel Perkins played the piano. Mr. W. Johnson proposed a vote of thanks to the rector and Mrs Mason for their support of the social life of the parish. He expressed regret that they were leaving the parish. This was supported by Mr. J. Pumford.

Rector of Jackfield Leaving

Rev. F. J. R. Mason

Going to Little Wenlock

The Rev F J. R. Mason, who has been rector of Jackfield for the past eleven years, is leaving shortly to take over the living of Little Wenlock, which has become vacant owing to the retirement of the Rev. A. C. Howell. Mr and Mrs Mason's departure will be greatly regretted in Jackfield, for they have thrown themselves wholeheartedly into all local activities.

Mr Mason was the originator of the local Dramatic Society, and his self written play, and sketches both for children and adults, have always been popular. In many instances he pained the scenery himself, and many excellent programmes have been staged through his efforts.

A veteran of the Great War, Mr Mason always takes a keen interest in all matters affecting ex-Servicemen and their dependants. He still feels the effect of injuries received when on active service, and it is purely for health reasons that he is leaving.

Mr Mason will preach his farewell sermon on Sunday and his induction at Little Wenlock will take place next Wednesday.

28th November 1941

SUNDAY PARADE

AT BROSELEY

Turn-out for Mayoral Service

There was a big turnout at Broseley on Sunday, when the Mayor and Mayoress of Wenlock (Councillor P. W. and Mrs. Parr), accompanied by aldermen, councillors and borough officials, attended divine service at the parish church.

A large parade assembled, consisting of the Wenlock Squadron of the A.T.C. (under Flight Lieutenant N. D. Simpson and Flying Officer B. E. Wilson), members of the borough fire brigade and auxiliaries (Chief Officer C. Bagley), Boy Scouts (Scoutmaster Britton), nurses and cadets (under Mrs. Hoy and Mrs. D. Potts), wardens and members of the local A.R.P. services (Chief Warden E. D. Collins), and members of the W.V.S., and other voluntary services and friendly societies. At the Town Hall the Mayoral party joined in the procession in the following order:- Police and special constables (under Supt. Ridgeway and Inspector J. E. Martin), the Mayor and Mayoress, Mr. F. W. Derry (Town Clerk), Aldermen W. Roberts, A. E. Exley, E. S. Owen and O. D. Murphy, the deputy Mayor and Mayoress, Councillor E. E. and Mrs. Bennett, Councillors R. A. Jones, Mitchell, C. O. Dyas, W. E. Davies, T. C. Gibbs, C. R. Jones, T. W. Howells, J. Lloyd, T. Fletcher, W. F. Parslow, and the Rev. C. S. Jackson; Alderman and Mrs. P. Blackford (ex-Mayor and Mayoress of Bridgnorth), Mrs. Price (Bridgnorth), Mr. G. Matthews (Deputy Town Clerk), Mr. E. V. Lucas (borough treasurer), Mr. A. O. Callear (water engineer), Mr. C. J. Thomas (sanitary inspector), Mr. F. Richards (borough surveyor), and Mr J. Duckworth (housing manager). Others present were Mr. Maddox (representing Mr. P. J. Maddox), Mr. J. R. Nicklin (Lloyd's Bank), Mr. F. Francis, Mr. J. T. Ritchings and Mr. J. W. Harrison. The Jackfield Silver Band, under Bandmaster W. Ellis, headed the parade. In church the service was conducted by the Mayor's Chaplain, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, who gave an appropriate address and gave the Mayor and Mayoress a hearty welcome. Mr. Ron Yorke was the organist. The collection was on behalf of the Mayor's Children's Christmas Entertainments Fund.

After the service the procession re-formed and accompanied the Mayoral party back to the Town Hall, where the Mayor thanked the members of the Corporation and all concerned for the manner in which they had supported him.

BROSELEY

MAYOR'S SUNDAY.—In addition to those mentioned in the report on page 3, Councillor and Mrs. E. Carter, Mayor and Mayoress of Bridgnorth, Mr. Elwyn Jones, Town Clerk of Bridgnorth, and Mrs. Jones were present.

DEATH IN U.S.A.—News has been received of the death at Zanesville, Ohio, U.S.A., on November 16, of Mr. Ernest Edwards Hartshorne, aged 71. He was a native of Broseley, the eldest son of the late Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Hartshorne, of The Cottage. He began his business career with the Salopian Art Pottery Co., Benthall, and became a prominent pottery designer. He was later employed in the designing department of Messrs. S. R. Maw and Company, Jackfield, but in 1910 he emigrated to America and was for many years with the American Tile Company. Some years later he returned to this country for a time, and took up employment with Messrs. Craven Dunnill, Ltd., Jackfield, returning to America after about 18 months. He is survived by his widow, two brothers and two sisters. Before going abroad in 1910 he was an active member of the Broseley Methodist Church, being a trustee, class leader and school superintendent.

LABOUR WHIST.—Mr. R. Perks was the M.C. at the Labour Party's whist drive at the Town Hall on Tuesday, when the prize-winners were: 1, Mrs. J. Casey; 2, Mrs. S. Roberts; 1, Mr. R. Perks; 2, Mr. T. Corfield. The competition on behalf of the Soldiers' Christmas Appeal Fund was won by Mrs. A. George.

WHIST.—Benthall Church Council's effort on behalf of the Services Christmas Appeal Fund was a huge success. It took the form of a whist drive on Wednesday evening, and Mr. G. Whitmore was M.C. The Mayoress distributed the prizes to the following: 1, Mrs. Bridgwater; 2, Mrs. Molyneaux; 3, Mrs. C. Hough; sealed, Mrs. Roberts 1, Mr. G. Wilde; 2, Mr. R. George; 3, Mrs. Tonkiss; sealed, Mr. E. Wilde. Competition winners were Mr. Shakespear (who returned the prize, which afterwards realised 13s.). Mrs. Sands (a painting given by Mrs. Robinson), and Mrs. L, Wass (bottle of port).

OBITUARY.—The death occurred on Saturday at the age of 75 of Miss Laura Emily Onslow, Harris's Green, She was the last surviving daughter of the late Dr, and Mrs. S. Onslow, and was engaged in the nursing profession. She was prominent in the activities of All Saints' Church. The funeral took place on Wednesday, the Rev, C. S. Jackson officiating. The mourners were Mr. H. S. Southorn, and Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Dixon, nephews and niece; Mr's. A. Stanier cousin; Miss K. Clarke (Worfield), Mrs. A. Clarke (Worfield), Mr. J. Broadhurst, Mrs. Crawford, Mrs. Jordon, Mrs. J. Rowe, Mrs. T. C. Gibbs, Mrs. G. Potts, Mrs. Wilcox, Mr. and Mrs. Taylor, Mr. W. Andrews, Mr. T. Broadhurst, Mr. J. Oakley, Mr. E. C. S. White, Mrs. Francis, Mrs. J. R. Nicklin.

Presentation to Rector of Jackfield

Methodists Join in Parish Tribute

At a social evening, held in St Mary's Hall, Jackfield, on Monday evening, Mr. J. Pumford presiding, presentation of a cheque  and an inkstand were made to the rector, the Rev. F. J. R. Mason, on leaving to take over the living of Little Wenlock. The chairman was supported by the Rural Dean, Rev. C. S. Jackson. Messrs. J T. Hearne and J. W. Harrison, Mrs G. S. Williams and Mr. Hayward Davies (former warden).

The chairman, who said he voiced Methodist opinion in the parish, paid a tribute to the work of Mr. Mason, to his broad minded views, and to the harmony in which the two churches had worked during his incumbency. He then called upon Mrs. G. S. Williams the oldest parishoner, to make the presentation.

Handing the rector a cheque, Mrs Williams said it was a small token of respect and esteem from the parishioners who appreciated the good work done for the parish by Mr. and Mrs Mason. Associating himself with the remarks, Mr. Hearne (rector's war den), spoke of the spirit of goodwill that had always existed and trustee Mr and Mrs. Mason would find happiness in their new parish. Mr. J. W Harrison (people's warden), thanked Mr. Mason for all he had done for the young folk of the parish, saying how much they would miss him.

Tributes were also paid by Mr. H Davies (former warden), Mr. L Hearne (on behalf of Jackfield Amateur Dramatic Society), Mr. N Hudson (Sunday School), Mr. W Hudson (choir), and Mr. Jack Bowen who on behalf of the Youth Movement presented Mr. Mason with an ink stand from the members.

The Rev. C. S. Jackson, who represented the Archdeacon of Ludlow spoke of Mr. Mason's church work and the high esteem in which he was held among his fellow clergy, saying he had a reputation which was recognised beyond the limits of the Diocese Jackfield was fortunate to have keep him so long. Knowing Mr. Mason's active nature and the whole hearted manner in which he devoted himself to the welfare of the parish, he realised that only the strongest medical advice had caused him to leave the church and parish he had served so well.

Mr. Mason replying, thanked all for the gifts and for the whole hearted support he and Mrs. Mason had received. He said Jackfield would lose him as their rector but never as "pal."' The letters he continually received from the men who had joined the Forces gave him encouragement He would still be their neighbour and hoped he would have the privilege of being with them on many future occasions.

At the afternoon meeting of the Mothers' Union, Mrs. Mason received a gift from the members. An excellent musical programme had been arranged for the occasion, the artistes being Miss K. Hudson, Master D. Johnson; Messrs. E Hudson, T. Green, L, Hearne and N. Hudson. Miss E. Perkins, Mr. W. Partridge and Councillor W. E. Davies were the accompanists.

PHEASANTS ILLEGALLY SOLD

Warning by Bridgnorth Bench

In the first case of its kind at Bridgnorth Leslie Cownley Cole, home Farm, Willey, Broseley, was fined £2 10s. for selling eight pheasants to James Joshua Beddoe, 11, Alverey Village, Bridgnorth, who was also fined £2 10s. for not being a licensed person to deal in game.

In imposing the fines, the Mayor (Councillor Ernest Carter) said that as that was the first case in that court the Bench felt a general warning should be given. The lightness of the fine in those cases was because the Bench meant it to be a warning. Mr. Rushworth prosecuted on behalf of the County Council Taxation Department and defendants pleaded "Guilty."

P.C. Brigstock said that on October 27 he went to Bridgnorth Smithfield and saw four brace of pheasants in the possession of Beddoe, who said he did not know he was doing wrong, as he knew where the pheasants came from Cole told the officer that he had instructions from his employer to put the pheasants under the hammer, as he had previously done, but he met Beddoe and let him have the birds. No money passed and Cole had no intention of breaking the law. He was authorised to bring the game to the Smithfield by his employer.

Mr. Rushworth explained that the only person authorised to sell game was a licensed dealer. Buying and selling game in that manner was grossly unfair to the legitimate trader who had a license for which he had to pay £2.

5th December 1941

BROSELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL

Doctor on Diphtheria Danger

The importance of immunising children, especially those under five, against diphtheria, was stressed by Dr. Gregory, medical officer of health, at a meeting of Broseley Council on Wednesday.

He said that in the whole of the borough only 8.72 per cent. of the children under the age of five had been protected. That was so low a percentage it could hardly be expected to influence the rate of diphtheria, and there had been about 14 cases since December last. The immunisation scheme was not only important for the protection of children, but it would also cut down expenses, including hospital costs, providing 70 per cent. of the children were protected.

About 40 per cent. of the children between five and fifteen had been immunised. He hoped that by propaganda in the school and co-operation with county officials it would be possible to increase this to 70 per cent. It was important that the children under five should be immunised, because diphtheria in these cases was usually fatal. The older children might carry the germs from school and infect the young children.

The clerk (Mr F. W. Derry): How long is immunisation effective? — For the whole of the child's life as far as we know. It has not been going on long enough for experiments. They never die of diphtheria when it has been done. There may be a case where there is a germ in the throat, but it is never fatal

WATER PRESSURE

Arising out of a complaint from the previous Council meeting by the A.F.S. that the water pressure was not adequate, the water engineer (Mr A. O. Callear) reported that a test was carried out on Saturday, when he found the pressure of the water was satisfactory. At the fire hydrant near the Town Hall the first test sent a jet three fourths of the way up the town clock, and the second test reached the top of the building. The jet could easily be thrown over from a fire ladder. At the hydrant near the Monument, although the length of hose used was short, the water went over a shop and on to the roof of a three-storeyed house. Not much more pressure could be obtained than that, and that was sufficient.

The Clerk said that it was obvious the pressure was not there. It was sufficient for the water to go over Town Hall roof.

Mr Callear said that if ladders were used it would be possible to improve on this.

No action was taken.

BROSELEY

DANCE.—The dance arranged by the Labour Party on behalf of the Services Christmas Appeal Fund in the Town Hall on Friday evening was a great success. The company included the Mayor and Mayoress of Wenlock (Councillor and Mrs. P. W. Parr), and Councillor and Mrs. T. W. Howells. Spot prizes were won by Mrs. M. Butler and Mr. C. Harrison. Mr. C. Southern won the competition.

CONCERT. — Arranged by the members of the "Young Crusaders' " Club, assisted by Mrs C. S. Thomas and Mr A. Jones, a concert was given in the Methodist School Room on November 27, in aid of their funds. The audience enjoyed a first rate programme. Those taking part were Mr A. O. Jones, the Misses M. Pugh, J. and M. Heighway, J. Clapton, E. and M Williams, J Harris and J. Gitting, Messrs. L. Morris, R. Taylor and E Humphries.

LABOUR WHIST.- Mr. R. Perks was the M.C. at the Labour Party whist -drive on Tuesday, when the prizewinners were 1, Mrs. J. Lloyd; 2, Mrs. J. Printry; 1, Mrs. N. George; 2, Mr. T. Corfield.

WENLOCK. AND  SUNDAY CINEMAS

Council's Support Objections from Clergy and Ministers

At a special meeting of the Wenlock Town Council yesterday, it was decided by fifteen votes to six to approve the application submitted by the military authorities for the opening of cinemas on Sunday in the Much Wenlock Ward and the Ironbridge and Coalbrookdale districts.

Application for the opening of the cinemas will now have to be made by the cinema proprietors to the magistrates.

Brigadier General Gamier, commanding the North Wales area, had supported the application.

Deputations to the Council against the opening of cinemas on Sunday consisted of the Rev. E. Roberts, rector of Ironbridge, the Rev. H. Saxton, vicar of Madeley, the Rev. T. W. Earis and the Rev. A. S. Clement. A letter opposing Sunday opening, which was read by the Clerk, was signed by the Revs. H. Saxton (Anglican), A. S. Clement (Baptist), C. E. Wright (Congregational), D. Jack (Methodist), W. Earis (Methodist) and F. J. Harper (Methodist).

RECTOR'S OBJECTIONS

The Rector of Ironbridge based his objection on, (1) There were enough pictures on week-days; (2) If cinemas were opened on Sunday evenings, children would attend; (3) There were not a large number of troops in the area; (4) Many parishioners were against it

The Secretary of the Madeley District Ministers' Fraternal said that he also represented Baptist and Methodist Churches, and the Vicar of Coalbrookdale. He said that apart from violating Sunday, it was not in the national or local interest to open cinemas in Much Wenlock on that day. As an example he said that a canteen opened for the Forces in Ironbridge was closed down because of the lack of their support.

Councillor Brickwell proposed that the application of the military authorities be accepted; and this was seconded by Councillor Powell.

TOO MUCH EXCITEMENT Councillor Howells said that there was too much craving for excitement and pleasure, and that the opening of the cinemas for the forces was not necessary.

Alderman Thompson said that he thought they ought to help the soldiers as much as possible, especially as this was only a temporary measure. Councillor R. A. Jones thought that the opening was a dire necessity.

LOCAL CINEMAS DEFENDED

The Rev. C S. Jackson said that generally he was in favour of Sunday opening, but the local cinemas were dark, dirty, dismal and unfriendly. Councillor Stead said that he was in agreement with the Sunday opening, and said that if the local cinemas were small they were clean and gave good shows.

Councillors Bennett and Davies also spoke in favour of the Sunday opening.

The proposition was then put to the meeting and carried.

PRESENTATION TO DR. GEPP

Dr. M. Gepp; retiring medical officer, received a presentation from the Mayor (Councillor P. W. Parr) of National Savings Certificates, which will be handed to the Much Wenlock Barnardo's Home for boys joining the Forces.

The Mayor thanked Dr. Gepp for his services, and among others expressing their appreciation' were Alderman Roberts, Alderman Thompson and Alderman Murphy.

Dr. Gepp said that he could not adequately express his thanks. He trusted they did not think he was abusing their generosity by handing on the presentation in the form of National Savings Certificates to the Barnardo Home.

It was decided that the Council should commandeer the Red House, Much Wenlock, for a hostel for blitzed children, in place of the hostel at Broseley.

12th December 1941

JACKFIELD

YOUTH CLUB.--A library has been opened at headquarters, St. Mary's Hall, for the benefit of the members. Mr. Norman Price is the librarian.

METHODIST SOCIAL.—A social evening arranged by members of the Methodist Church for the children's Christmas party was held in the School Room on December 3rd. Mr. J. Pumford presided and among those  who gave musical items were Messrs. E. and N. Hudson.

19th December 1941

BROSELEY

SMOKING CONCERT. — Organised by No. 2 Platoon, "A" Company, Home Guard, a smoking concert was held in the Town Hall on Monday evening, Lieut. T W. Howells presiding. A musical programme was given by Miss Edna Williams, Miss Hudson, Mr. R. Picken, Mr. Dennis Williams, Mr. Hudson, Mr. L. Hearne, Mr. G. Wilde, and Mr. A. O. Jones. The General Ward challenge cup, given for the best section of No. 2 platoon, for miniature rifle shooting, and won by No. 3 section, was presented to Sergeant C. O. Jones by General Ward.

AMERICAN TEA. — Organised by the women Conservatives, an American tea was held in the Town Hall on December I1th. Mrs. Roland Hunter presiding, in aid of the local Services Christmas, appeal fund. The gift stall was supervised by Mesdames G. Potts and J. Broadhurst, and an interesting talk was given by Mrs. H. D. O. Ward. Tea was served by Mesdames Evans, Archer, Perks, A. A. Ward and Bowen. Mrs. Marley, The Lawns, was secretary, and £6 10s. was realised.

FLAG DAY.— A flag day, in aid of Mrs. Churchill's Aid for Russia Fund, was held on Monday and £9 4s. 6d. was raised. Mrs. T. Goodall was the organiser.

26th December 1941

JACKFIELD

POULTRY WHIST DRIVE. — On behalf of the local Service Christmas Fund a successful poultry whist drive was held in St. Mary's Hall on Friday evening. Mr J. W. Harrison was M.C. The prize winners were Mrs Lloyd, Mrs E. Roberts, Mrs E. Williams, Mr W. G. Sumner, Miss I. Roberts, Miss F. Gallear, Mr. P. Hadley and Mr G. Dicken. The competition winner was Mr Daniels. The event was arranged by the Ladies' Committee, and the fund benefited by approximately £15.

HEADMASTER' RETIRMENT.—Mr. F. J. Brookes, who has been headmaster at Jackfield Church School the past 32 years, retires at the end of December. Last Friday a presentation was made to him on behalf of the managers, staff and scholars. The presentation was made by the Rev. F. R. Mason, who expressed regret that they were losing the services of Mr. Brookes, remarking on the high standard efficiency that had always prevailed in the school during his headmastership and the splendid results the school had obtained. He turned out many good scholars, some of whom were at present holding excellent positions. They would all be sorry to lose him and wished him the best of health and happiness in his retirement. Other managers endorsed the remarks of. Mr. Mason, and Mr. Brookes suitably responded.