Extracts from

Wellington Journal & Shrewsbury News

1937

relating to Broseley and District

Broseley Local History Society

2009

23rd January 1937

BROSELEY

UNITED BROTHERHOOD. — The monthly meeting of the Men’s Own was held in the Town Hall on Sun day. Mr. W. Batchelor, in accordance with the rota, was chairman, and was supported by the chaplain (Rev. C. S. Jackson, rector of Broseley), and the Rev. J. Martin, of Darlington Street Chapel, Wolverhampton, who gave an address on “Putting Man into Manhood.” The chaplain read the lesson and led the meeting in prayers, owing to the absence of the special soloist, the musical part consisted of the singing of hymns from the Fellowship Hymnal, to the accompaniments of the organist and assistant, Mr. W .E. Davis and Mr. Dennis Williams.

CORONATION CELEBRATIONS.—  A large and representative gathering of the residents of the district attended a public meeting in the Town Hall on Monday, called by the Borough Council, for the purpose of considering the steps to be taken to celebrate the forthcoming Coronation in  the Broseley Ward. Ald. Nicklin (as Chairman of the Ward Committee), presided, and was supported by the Members of the District Council. Mr. Nicklin said that the Council had agreed to assist the fund to the extent of one penny in the pound in the rates, if needed. The meeting decided to follow the same lines as with the Silver Jubilee celebration, and an executive committee was elected, comprising the same people who acted on the previous occasion, with additional names. Mr. Nicklin was unanimously re-elected chairman, and Mr. A. J. Garbett was appointed secretary to the Executive Committee, with Mr. A. Wilkinson as assistant secretary. Mr. R. Nicklin (manager of Lloyds Bank, Broseley), was elected treasurer. Various sub-committees were also elected. Representatives from Jackfield attended the meeting, and the Rev. F. J. R. Mason (rector of Jackfield), said that they had already had a meeting in their district, and had decided to proceed as they did for the Jubilee, and have a house-to-house collection. His object in attending the meeting that evening was to learn what assistance would be given to them by the District Council if they should need any help. He was assured by the chairman that the Borough Council would augment their fund if necessary.

LATE MISS J. J. MOORE.— The death occurred on Tuesday at Bournville, Birmingham, of Miss Jane Julia (Jennie) Moore, High Street, Broseley, after an illness of one week, at the age of 70. Miss Moore had lived in Broseley the whole of her and was the youngest daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. William Moore; who formerly, lived at Cape Street. For the last 25 years she had made her home with her sister, Miss Mary Moore, stationer and newsagent, High Street. She had been ailing in health for some time. Early this year she went to Birmingham to visit a relative who was ill, and contracted a cold which eventually resulted in her death. She is survived by three sisters and four brothers. The funeral takes place to-day (Saturday) at Birmingham, and the interment will be at Brandwood cemetery, where one of her sisters is buried.

COUNTY COURT MADELEY

Thursday.—Before Judge Samuel.

Workman’s Claim Disallowed

An application was made by Samuel Jones, Speed’s Lane, Broseley, for compensation under the Workmen’s Compensation Act, the respondent being Major A. Boswell, public works contractor, Wolverhampton.

Mr. E. G. H. Beresford (Birmingham), instructed by Messrs. Cooper, Woolley and Co., Bridgnorth, appeared for applicant, and the respondent was represented by Mr. Colin Coley, instructed by Messrs. T. Haynes Duffil and Son, Birmingham.

Mr. Beresford said that applicant was a tile presser by trade, and until about four years ago was employed by John Doughty and Son, Broseley, afterwards working at the Prestage Tile Works. He later became unemployed, but in March, 1935, he obtained employment with respondent, who was then a contractor at the Buildwas Power Station. On Sept. 12, 1935, while engaged in braking skips down a line, his left hand was badly crushed. He lost part of his little finger, and the ring finger was also damaged. He was paid compensation until Dec. 26, 1935, when it ceased, and applicant later secured employment with John Doughty and Son, but owing to his injury, he could not follow his original employment as a tile presser, and was doing work of a labouring character.

Applicant said that he could not do the work as a tile presser to make his money, owing to his injured hand. In reply to Mr. Coley, he agreed that he was employed by respondent as a general labourer.

John Farnell, manager to Messrs. John Doughty and Son, said that Jones applied for work as a tile presser, and was engaged as such, but he could not get through his work as efficiently as the others. He presumed it was due to his injured hand.

Arthur Thomas, foreman tile presser to Messrs. John Doughty and Son, said that Jones could not do the work as a tile presser to make his money.

John Wm. Lee, manager to the respondent, said that Jones was engaged by his firm as a general labourer.

Mr. Coley said that when the accident happened Jones was employed as a general labourer. There was partial disability, but it did not prevent him from continuing work as such.

Evidence in support of this was given by Dr. Mackie (Wellington), and Dr. Freeman (Wolverhampton).

His Honour said that he was of opinion that applicant was fit to do a general labourer’s work, and under the circumstances he could not give any monetary compensation. He would give a declaration of liability, but on the general issue he found in favour of the respondent.

30th January 1937

JACKFIELD

THE JACKFIELD PRIZE SILVER BAND held their annual meeting on Monday at the Black Swan Inn, Mr. W. T. Hudson (chairman of the committee) presiding. One minute’s silence was observed in memory of the late Mr. E. Shinton, who was a member of the committee.—The chairman  in opening the proceedings, congratulated the band on having had a successful season. In addition to clearing off the balance of £25, outstanding on the new uniform fund, the general account showed a balance in hand. The hon. secretary and treasurer (Mr. G. Stewart) presented the accounts for the past year, showing a credit balance of £18 15s. 11d., which were considered satisfactory and adopted.—Ald. A. A. Exley was re-elected president for the ensuing year.  The committee was re-elected en bloc, with one addition and Mr. W. Ellis again appointed bandmaster, and Mr. C. Hudson was; chosen as deputy bandmaster. Mr. A. Evans was re-elected as members’ representative on the committee. The remainder of the evening was devoted to harmony. Songs were contributed by Messrs. R. Duce, E. Hudson, F. Cross, G. Stewart and N.  Hudson: and banjo solos by Mr. .Walter Hudson. The rector (Rev. F J R Mason) also gave a humorous item.       Mr. Gerald Edge presided at the piano.

TERRIBLE  SAD ‘CASE”

JACKFIELD MAN KILLED IN MADELEY ACCIDENT

LEAVES WIDOW AND ELEVEN

CHILDREN

“A terribly sad case”, said the Coroner (Mr F W Derry) at an inquest at Broseley Lady Forester Hospital on Thursday into the death of Charles Herbert Morris, of Werps Road, Jackfield, who died in  the hospital on Tuesday from injuries received in a road accident.

Deceased, it was stated, who was aged about 52, leaves a widow and eleven children, six of whom are under 14 years old, and three under school age.

On Monday morning, at about 7-13, Morris, who was employed by the County -Council on road repairs at Cosford, near Shifnal, was pedal cycling to work. When riding down High Street, Madeley, he was involved in a collision with a motor milk van, owned and driven by Mr. E, Brown, milk retailer, of 3, Park Street, Madeley.

Morris was badly injured, and after being attended, by Dr. Mitchell, of Madeley, he was removed to the Broseley Hospital, where he died on Tuesday.

Only evidence of identification was taken when the inquest was opened on Thursday,

Leonard Charles Morris, son of the deceased, of 37, Railway St., Bridgnorth, identified the body, and the inquiry was then adjourned,

The Coroner, expressing his deep sympathy with the widow and relatives, said that it was a terribly sad case, particularly because of the large family who were left.

Inspector Machin (Iron-Bridge), on behalf of the police, associated himself with the coroner’s expression.

6th February 1937

EARLY MORNING ROAD CRASH
AT MADELEY

RESUMED INQUEST ON
JACKFIELD MAN

THE adjourned inquest into the death of Mr, Charles Herbert Morris, County Council roadman, of the “General Gordon” (formerly a licensed house), Werps Road, Jackfield, aged about 52, who died in the Broseley Lady Forester Hospital on Jan. 26 from injuries received in a road accident in High Street, Madeley, the previous day, was held on Tuesday at the Broseley Hospital by the borough coroner (Mr. F.  W, Derry).

Mr, E. C. S. White was foreman of the jury.

Mr. G. H. Butler, of Messrs, Ansell and Sherwin, Birmingham, appeared for Mr. Edward Brown, milk retailer, of 3, Park Street, Madeley, the owner-driver of the motor-van which was involved in a collision with Morris’s cycle.

Inspector Machin (Iron-Bridge) represented the police.

The inquest was opened last week, and after evidence of identification, was adjourned.

Mrs, Elsie May Morris, widow of deceased, stated that her husband was a Salop County Council road-man, and had been so employed for about seven or eight years. He was working near Cosford waterworks at the time of his death, and it was his practice to cycle to his work, He had to commence work at 7-30 a.m. He left home at about a quarter to seven on the morning of the accident. Her husband had been riding a bicycle since a boy, and had the reputation of being a careful rider.

Dr. J. G. Boon, medical officer of the Lady Forester Hospital, described deceased’s injuries; which included a fracture of the base of the skull. Deceased was unconscious when admitted, and continued so up to the time of his death. It was a hopeless case right from the first.

P.C. Bailey (Madeley) said the accident occurred at about 7-20 a.m. He gave measurements, etc., and produced a plan of the scene. He stated that the gradient of the road was 1 in 20 sloping in the direction of Cuckoo Oak, the direction in which deceased was travelling. The scene of the accident was on a gradual left-hand bend,

In reply to a question, witness said deceased would have a good view; the bend in the road did not obscure the visibility in any way.

Van Driver’s Evidence

Edward Brown, the driver of the motor-van, said he was driving his three-wheel commercial van along High Street, Madeley, from Cuckoo Oak in the direction of Iron-Bridge. He estimated he was travelling at 14 m.p.h., and when he was near to Mr. Cartwright’s butcher’s shop, he suddenly saw the pedal cyclist travelling towards him about 15 yards away; he could not see any greater distance away than that. The cyclist had no light, and came straight on, not altering his course, and witness had no time to warn him. He did not think the cyclist saw him. Witness jammed on his brakes and shut the engine off as he saw deceased was heading straight for him, and the car had actually stopped at the time of impact.  The cyclist was travelling very fast and struck the van on the front on the off-side, and deceased’s head struck the board at the front of the car over the wind screen. There was no other traffic about at the time,

Witness added that he had been driving the van since April, 1936, and for 14 years a motor-cycle and combination, had never been involved in an accident previously,

“Van on its Proper Side”

Mrs. Phyllis Johnson, widow, 17, Station Road; Madeley, who was on the pavement near the spot, said she first saw a small motor-vehicle coming from the direction of Cuckoo Oak. It was coming very slowly on its proper side of the road, She next saw the bicycle coming down High Street about six yards away, and when she was turning to go down an entry she heard a loud crash and saw that the cycle and van had come into collision. The van was still on its proper side and had lights on, but she could not say how many.

Frederick Cyril Cartwright, butcher, 38, High Street, Madeley, who heard the crash, said that after the accident, the position of the van was on its correct side of the road, and there were lights on the van,

Richard Gregory, 56, High Street, Madeley, who also heard the crash, gave similar evidence.

The Coroner, in his summing up, said that after hearing the evidence he considered that no blame could be attached to the driver of the motor-van, and he did not see any other verdict but “Accidental death”.

The jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Mr. Butler, on behalf of his client, expressed sympathy with the widow and family.

Mr. White also expressed sympathy on behalf of the jury.

The Coroner mentioned that he and the police had already done so at the opening of the inquest.

The Funeral

The funeral took place on Saturday. The coffin was taken from the mortuary at the Lady Forester Hospital by the bearers (Messrs. E. Hodge, W, Storey, G. Harrington, A. Rogers and N. Hughes) to the Broseley cemetery, where a service was conducted by the rector of Jackfield (Rev. F. J. R. Mason).

The family mourners included the widow, Leonard, Albert, Cecil, Jack and Harold (sons), Mr. William Morris, Claverley (brother), Mr. and Mrs. Harold Jones. Bridgnorth (brother-in-law and sister-in-law); and Mrs. Jessie James, Endon (niece).

Deceased was a native of the Bridgnorth district, and had only resided in Jackfield a comparatively short time. He served in the Great War.

BROSELEY

“LA REVUE SPLENDIDE”. — A revue, produced by Mr. P. G. F. Jones, Wem, was presented by the patients of the King Edward Memorial Sanatorium, Shirlett, in the Dining Hall on Jan. 29. It was attended by the resident doctor, Dr. Turner, the Matron and the majority of the patients and staff. Those taking part were Mr. Jones, Mr. Sam Hall (Oswestry), Mr. Harry Swinnerton (Shrewsbury), Miss Winnie Davies (Broseley), Miss Alice Wilcox (Red Lake), Miss Eva Doody (Hadley) and Miss Kathleen Ashley (Tilstock) and Miss Margaret Ashby (Shrewsbury) was at the piano. The many humorous items included a sketch written by Mr. Charles Davenport, a patient. During the intervals the audience was entertained by Sam Hall and his Harmonica Band. The “Maniacs” (which is what the company called themselves) opened with their signature tune, “The Fleet’s in Port Again.” The stage, curtains, etc., were erected by the stage manager, Mr. Joe Oliver (Oswestry) and his assistant, Mr. R. Powell (Ludlow). The footlights were made of toffee tins cut in half, and the sound effects were produced by an electric polisher, numerous tin lids and peas in a tin.

SOCIAL CLUB— The annual general meeting was held at the club on Jan. 30. Owing to illness, many members were unable to be present, and there was only a moderate attendance. In the absence of the president (Lord Forester), the chair was taken by Dr. J. G. Boon (chairman of committee). The secretary (Mr. R. B. Weekes), in presenting the financial statement, informed the meeting that, in consequence of the illness of one of the auditors the accounts had not been audited. These were passed subject to audit. The Meeting confirmed the action of the committee in appointing Mr. R. Nicklin (of Lloyds Bank, as auditor in the place of Mr. R. E. Piper, who has left the district. The three retiring members of the committee, Messrs. J. Watkins, J. Tisdale and T. Goodall, were re-elected. In the place of two members of the committee who had resigned, Messrs. A. Fielding and Matthew Davis were elected. Mr. J. Tisdale conducted the sale of newspapers and magazines.

WOMEN CONSERVATIVES. — The annual meeting of the local branch of the Women’s Conservative Association, was held on Wednesday at the Town Hall. There was a good attendance. Lady Norah More, of Barrow House, presided, and Mr. W. M. Ridgwell (Wrekin Division agent), and Mrs. H. P. Sykes (vice-chairman of the Wrekin Women’s Association), attended. The statement of accounts for the past year, showing: a balance of £1 6s. 10d. in hand, was presented by Mrs. P. W. Parr (hon. treasurer), and passed. Lady Forester (Willey Park), was again elected president, and the following officers were re-elected; — Chairman, Lady Norah More; vice-chairmen, Mrs G. Potts (Benthall House), and Mrs. Renwick (The Grange); hon. treasurer, Mrs. P. Parr; hon. secretary, Mrs. A. Crawford; assistant secretary, Mrs. E, Walker. The committee was re-elected en bloc.  Refreshments were afterwards served by Mrs. Jas. Evans.

TENNIS CLUB, DANCE.— he annual dance in connection with the Lawn Tennis Club, was held on Jan. 29 in the Town. There was a large attendance, and the hall was tastefully decorated, while novelty prizes were distributed during the evening. The M.C. was Mr. alter E. Davis, who also carried out the secretarial arrangements. The refreshment department was supervised by Mrs. T. W. Street and Mrs. J. Jones, who were assisted by the lady members of the club: Mr. Street and Mr. Jones gave assistance as door stewards.

BRITISH AND FOREIGN BIBLE SOCIETY.—Bible Sunday was served as follows on Sunday. In the unavoidable absence of the Rev. Gwynn Rhys services were held in the morning at the Parish Church, the preacher being the Rev. C. S. Jackson. In the evening at the Baptist Church, the preacher was Mr. E. Glover. In the afternoon a service was held in the Congregational Church under the chairmanship of Mr. R. N. Moore, Madeley. Addresses were given on the value of the Bible by the Rev. T. Lloyd Morgan, Baptist minister, and the Rev. C. E. Wright, Congregational minister. Selections were given by the Broseley Handbell Ringers, under the conductorship of Mr. A. J. Garbett. Mrs. W. Williams was at the organ. Collections were taken at all services for Bible Society funds, and these, with subscriptions, amount to about £6.

DISTRICT COUNCIL

Wednesday, Ald. J. Nicklin presiding.

The town clerk (Mr. F. W. Derry), reporting on finance, stated that the general district account, after cheques being drawn that day to the amount of £149 6s. 2d., would show a debit balance of £34 2s. 1d., but after the February precept of £189 11s. 8d. was paid into the account, would show a credit balance of £155 9s. 7d. as against a debit balance of £183 10s. 10d. at the corresponding period last year. He reported that the collectors had paid a sum of £66 4s. 9d. into the water account during the past month and after cheques being drawn that day amounting to £13 1s., the account would be in credit to the extent of £178 13s. 10d., as against a credit of £145 4s. 2d. last year.— The chairman considered that their financial position was satisfactory.

The collector (Mr. A. G. Fenn), said that he had collected £171 19s. 8d. of the current half-year’s water rate, and the gross outstandings amounted to £138 11s. 7d. He stated that he had banked a further amount of £16 4s. 2d. the previous day, which had increased the balance mentioned by that sum.

Mr. C. Thomas, sanitary inspector, reported the district free from notifiable diseases.

Mr. C. K. Jones suggested that before repairs to the Cobwell road were carried out, there were properties where the drains should be first connected up with the sewer, to save taking up the road again. The inspector was instructed to make inquiries as to these.

The surveyor reported that he had received a letter from the Ministry of Transport in connection with the repairs being carried out on the short length of road near the railway bridge at Jackfield, requesting that a kerbed footpath be made there, and also stating that the grant had not been cancelled, and that he would be quite in order in proceeding with the work. He stated that the kerbing had been provided for in his estimate of the cost, and the work was being proceeded with.—  member remarked that the work already done was a great improvement:

Mr. Parr mentioned the dangerous position in which some buses parked in the Broseley Square—especially at times when two buses were there together—when the children were coming from school. The clerk was instructed to write the County Council, suggesting that a white line be put there showing the position at which buses would be allowed to park.

13th February 1937

LATE MRS E. POUNTNEY. — The death occurred on Feb. 4 at the age of 79, after two weeks’ illness, of Mrs. Elizabeth Pountney, at her home, 11, Fiery Fields. She was the widow of Mr. Alfred Pountney, town postman for over 30 years, who died 28 years ago. Mrs. Pountney was staunch member of the Church of England, and up to about seven years ago, when her sight began to fail, was a regular worshiper and communicant at the Parish Church. She was also one of the oldest members of the local women’s branch of the Conservative and Unionist Association. The funeral took place on Monday at the Parish Church, where a Service was conducted by the rector Rev. C. S. Jackson. The body was conveyed on the church bier, and the attendants were Messrs. R. and J. Gallier, G. Meredith, sen, W. Meredith, James Gallier, and J. Casey, all close neighbours. The mourners included Alfred, Arthur, Fred and Walter (sons), Eva and Florrie (daughters). Eva, and May Pountney, Dawley (grandchildren), Mrs. Fred Pountney, Dawley, and Mrs. Walter Pountney (daughters-in-law), Mr. W. W. Ward (son-in-law), Mr. Bert Pountney.   Iron-Bridge, and Mr: E. Hodge, Jackfield (nephews). Friends who attended were Mrs. John Edwards, Mr. Cyril Edwards. Mr. F. Powell (ex-postman), Mr. John Wollam, Mr. Harry Mason, Mr. Frank Benbow, and Mrs. Tom Bennett. The interment was in the cemetery in the grave of her late husband. She is survived by five sons and four daughters. Beautiful floral tributes were sent by:- Alfred. Eva and Louisa, Arthur, Jessie and family: Fred and Lill: Florrie, Will and family: Walter, Sybil and family: Eva and May (grand-daughters): Vincent and Vivienne (great-grandchildren): cousin Nellie and Joe (Brierley Hill): all at Manchester: Mr. and Miss Exley (Rock House): Robert and Harry Parry (Brierley Hill): Mr. and Mrs. T. Edwards and Cyril: Mr. and Mrs. Woollam: Mr. and Mrs. F. Powell: Mr. and Mrs. J. Powell: Mrs. Molyneux, Ivor and Walter: Mr. Joe Dallier and family: Mr. and Mrs. J. Pope (Much Wenlock): Carrie and Lucy (Jackfield): W. and Mrs. T. Bennett: Mr. and Mrs. J. Casey and Georgie: Mr. and Mrs. Bert Meredith and Mr. Goodall (Monewood): Mrs. Morris and Elsie: Mr. and Mrs. R. A. Jones, junior: Mr. and Mrs. F. Benbow: Mr. and Mrs. Rogers: Elsie and Harry Beddowe Mr. and Mrs. G. Maiden: Mr. and Mrs. Hillgroves (Wellington).

20th February 1937

40 YEARS AT THE POTTER’S WHEEL

A SHROPSHIRE CRAFTSMAN OF THE OLD SCHOOL

M. R. ‘WHITMORE, BENTHALL, TO RETIRE

SEVENTY-FOUR-years-old Mr. H. Whitmore, of Benthall Lane, Benthall, which is in the ancient borough of Wenlock, who has been engaged in the making of pottery—the oldest of the arts known to man-is shortly to retire, but not until he has completed his work in connection, with the fashioning of Coronation souvenirs.

He is engaged at one of the oldest pottery works, the Benthall potteries, established over 200 years ago, and some of the present employees are third and fourth generation descendants            of Shropshire potters.

Although Mr. Whitmore is not a direct Salopian—he was born at Bilston—he can be claimed as one of Shropshire’s potters, for he has been employed at the Benthall Potteries for 53 years, and for over 40 years he has been at the potter’s wheel, one of the oldest of  the potter’s tools.

Professionally, he is styled as a “thrower”, and when a JOURNAL representative called at the works this week, Mr. Whitmore had just a lump of clay on the wheel and with his deft fingers was fashioning the, desired article—a Coronation beaker.

Fragile cups, bowls, exquisitely-shaped ornamental vases, tea-pots ready for the process of “baking” were on, his bench, and they were all request. hand-made articles.

In conversation which followed, the JOURNAL representative was informed that a number of special Coronation orders had been received for handmade souvenir cups and beakers, and it is on this work that Mr. Whitmore is at present engaged. He was on similar work for the Coronations of King Edward VII, and King George V.

An Expert

Although modern methods have been introduced, Mr. Whitmore is still engaged on the old treadle-worked wooden wheel, which was at the works long before his day. No one dare challenge him at “throwing” for he is an expert in the shaping by the hands, and his work has gone to various parts of the British Empire and foreign countries.

An expert from Stockholm, when speaking on the subject in England recently, said, “The art wares so produced (by hand) have a touch of individuality, which gives them a wonderful charm which a. piece made in a mould never could attain.”

The comment is a tribute to the skill or such men as Mr. Whitmore.

BROSELEY

CINEMA SHOW.—In aid of Dame Agnes Hunt’s appeal for the building fund of the new Shropshire Orthopaedic Hospital, a cinema entertainment was given in the Town Hall on Feb. 12. The rector of Broseley sponsored the show, and made the arrangements. The pictures shown described the good work being carried out at the present hospital, and the method of treatment of the various ailments, also the training given to patients in the respective workshops. The lady lecturer gave a concise history of the hospital since its formation. A collection, taken at the door, amounted to nearly Messrs. J. G. Broadhurst and Chas. Davis gave assistance during the evening.

27th February 1937

JACKFIELD

LATE MRS. J. ROE.— The death occurred on Saturday at the Old Post Office, Church Road, of Mrs. Fanny Roe, widow of Mr. John Roe, at the age of 93, after a long period of infirmity. The oldest resident of the parish, Mrs. Roe was born in Jackfield, and had lived there all her life. Her late husband died in 1909, and for the last 20 years she had lived with her daughter, Mrs. P. Price. She is survived by one son and two daughters, one of whom lives in Canada. The funeral took place on Wednesday. A service was held in the Parish Church by the rector (Rev. F. J. R. Mason), and the bearers were Messrs. W. H. Evans, I. Cross, T. Evans, F. Birbeck, E. Hadley and J. G. Bradeley. The family mourners were Master Norman Price (grandson), and Mr. A. Harper (nephew).

BROSLEEY

LATE MR. W.H. LEWIS. — The death occurred on Feb. 8 at 25, Porlock Road, Flixton, Manchester, of Mr William Henry Lewis, a former resident of Broseley, who later lived at Madeley, where he was employed by the Madeley Wood Company. The funeral took place at Broseley cemetery on Feb 12, the officiating clergyman being the Rev. C. S. Jackson (Rector). The chief mourners were Mrs. M. Heighway and Mrs Walter Evans (nieces), Mr Thos. Richards, Mr. Worth Richards, Mr Walter Evans and Mr. Morton W. Heighway (nephews).

METHODIST CONVENTION. — A convention of the Methodist Churches of the Madeley Circuit was held on Wednesday in the Methodist Church. At 4-15 p.m. a service was held, when the sermon was preached by the Rev. G. E. Johnson, of Sheffield. This was followed by a tea in the Schoolroom, after which a tea-table cloth was held, the subject being “Evangelism,” introduced by Mr. E. Wilkes, of Iron-Bridge. Others taking part were Messrs. E. R. Gwynne. H. Evans, A. Evans, G. Walker, E. W. Smith and the Revs. R. H. Osborne and G. E. Johnson. Later a public meeting was held in the church, at which the Rev. R. H. Osborne was the chairman, and the speaker was the Rev. G. E. Johnson. The, combined choirs of the Madeley section, numbering about 100 voices, rendered selections, under the conductorship of Mr. Fred Aston, of Coalbrookdale, with Mr. E. W. Smith, of Iron-Bridge, at the organ.

6th March 1937

THE BLIZZARD IN SHROPSHIRE

ROADS BLOCKED, WIRES DOWN,

MOTORISTS STRANDED, ELECTRIC
SUPPLY FAILS IN SOME PARTS

SERVICES HELD BY CANDLE LIGHT

IMPASSABLE roads, with delay and inconvenience to traffic, hundreds of telephone wires and trees blown down, electricity pylons broken, causing light failure in many  parts so that lamps and candles had to be used in houses and for church services .

This is the story which comes from various parts of Shropshire and adjoining counties as the result of the week-end blizzard, which was the worst since the one on Feb. 24, four years ago.

Snowdrifts were 12ft. deep in some parts, while trees falling across the roads added the motorists difficulties.

In some minor roads the drifts stretched from hedge to hedge, and some motorists, abandoning their cars, had to spend Sunday night in nearby towns or went home by train. Some of the cars on the high ground could be seen almost buried in the drifts; some were dug or pulled out and the owners proceeded with difficulty. It was not surprising that there were many skids and accidents on the roads.

Bus services in many parts had to be suspended, and telephone communication was cut off in many cases by fallen wires.

Church services were completely disorganised, and in some cases abandoned as there were no congregations—only the vicar and organist, being present.

The snowfall followed heavy rain, with severe floods in many parts.

With the thaw on Monday conditions rapidly became normal.

Below are given some the principal items of storm news — other items will be found under the various district headings.

Iron-Bridge

Considerable inconvenience was caused by the failure of the electric light on Sunday, due to the violence of the blizzard in the Iron-Bridge district. Many inhabitants were only able to obtain light by the use of candles.

The evening serviced at Holy Trinity Coalbrookdale, was abandoned, while the service at St. Luke’s Church, Iron-Bridge, conducted by the Rev. Ll, Rees Davies, curate of Much Wenlock, was held by candle-light.

Much Wenlock

As was the case with the last blizzard, the high ground round the town suffered badly in       Sunday’s storm. Road communication with Broseley was impossible until Monday morning, and the road to Broseley through Willey was blocked up to Tuesday morning. The usual bus service to the Sanatorium on Sunday was cancelled.

During the storm on Sunday afternoon, Mr. E. Hands, a councillor of the Wenlock Ward, was proceeding from Wenlock to Broseley when his car developed a skid at the bottom of the Bell-hole Bank, and turned on its side. Mr. Hands was pinned between the wheel and the door, and it was some time before he was released, help being obtained through a passing pedestrian. Mr. Hands was taken to the Royal Salop Infirmary for examination, and later conveyed to the Orthopaedic Hospital at Oswestry for treatment for injuries to the back.

A milk lorry from Bradeley Farm was being driven in Farley on Sunday morning by Mr. Reg. Wood, when the force of wind caused it to turn on its side. The driver escaped with bruises.

BROSELEY

DISTRICT COUNCIL—RATE FIXED

Ald. J. Nicklin presided at the Council Meeting on Wednesday.

The town clerk (Mr. F. W. Derry), reporting on finance, stated that the general district account was in credit to the amount of £38 2s. 7d., and cheques being drawn that day to the extent of £342 19s. 4d. would show the account in debit to a sum of £304 16s. 9d., which, however, would be reduced to £71 15s. 1d. after- paying in the March precept and another cheque for £43 in hand, as against a debit of £82 2s. 2d. at the corresponding period last year.

He reported that the collectors had paid into the water account during the past month a total amount of £94 18s. 2d., and the account was in credit to the sum of £271 4s. 4d., but cheques to be drawn would reduce the credit balance considerably..

The collector (Mr. A. G. Fenn) reported that he had collected £190 18s. 10d. of the Current half year’s water rate, and the nett outstandings amounted to £76 14s. 3d., which was about the same amount as last year.

The sanitary inspector (Mr. C. Thomas) reported one case of notifiable infections disease in the district.

The Mayor reported an offer made by a resident in Jackfield to give to the Council a narrow strip of land about 60 yards in length on the road side near the Free Bridge, on condition that the Council would erect an unclimable fence there in place of the present old fence. The surveyor explained that this would add an extra four feet to the width of the road and the Council agreed to accept the offer.

The surveyor presented then tenders for scavenging for the ensuing  year and the tender of  Mr G. A. Lane for the sum of £80 was accepted

Arising out of various complaints made by the members of the bad state of foot paths in the district, the surveyor was instructed to give attention to repairs to a path from Swan Street to Workhouse Road, and the paths through the Red Church fields. Capt. E. D. Collins promised to point out the bad state of the Rough Lane to the Willey Estates Company as this lane did not come under the control of the District Council.

The clerk reported that the Ministry had approved of the plan and tender for a house to be erected in Jackfield, and the Public Works Board had agreed to lend the money for a period of 10 years. Sanction of the loan for the erection of the public convenience at the bottom end of Birch Row had also been received, and the work was being proceeded with.

The water engineer (Mr. A. O. Callear) reported that be was experiencing much difficulty with the distribution service main between Jackfield Church and the Half Moon Inn. Owing to movements of the road caused by the continued wet weather, there had been four fractured mains during the last fortnight, and a further one that day, and the water had again to be cut off. He estimated that there had been a movement of two to three inches during the last three weeks and it was urgent that a new main be laid with two fire hydrants and a sluice value for a distant of about 350 yards. He was instructed to proceed with the necessary work as quickly as possible.

The clerk submitted to the meeting his estimates of the proposed expenditure in the Broseley Ward for the coming year, amounting to £2,448. The principle items included highways £1,030: housing subsides £237; public lighting £175; and sewerage £265. This sum is equivalent a rate of 6s. in the £, and it was decided to recommend to the Borough         Council that a rate of 6s. in the £ be fixed for the Broseley Ward in levying the general rate, to which will have to be added the County Council rate and the additional amount to cover the expenditure of the Borough Council.

It was decided to increase the water rate 1s 9d. to 2s. in the £ for the coming year. The increase is made necessary to meet the expense of the new bore hole, new pumping station, plant, machinery, etc., at the Harrington Water Works.

13th March 1937

SHROPSHIRE SOCIETY IN LONDON

LORD FORESTER ELECTED PRESIDENT

THE annual meeting, of the Shropshire Society in London was held at Caxton Hall, London, on March 5, Major Sir Alexander Stonier, Bart., presided in the absence of the president, Lieut. General Sir C. J. C. Grant.

Mr. Cyril J. Wosencroft (the hon. secretary) said he had received a letter from Sir Charles Grant, expressing his sincere regret at being unable to be present. As most members were aware, Sir. Charles had recently been appointed Commanding Officer for Scotland, and he was in Scotland on military duties. Sir Charles had also asked him to convey to his successor Lord Forester, his very sincere wishes for a happy year as president or the Society.

Mr. S. A. Williams proposed the adoption of the report and accounts, which was Seconded by Mr. A. Dovaston.

Mr. George Palmer (the hon. treasurer) said that the accounts showed the Society to be in a flourishing and progressive position, was due very largely to the excellent work put in by the secretary and the committee. They commenced the year with a balance of £126 and ended with a balance of £108. He went on to speak of the good work done by the Benevolent Fund.

The accounts Were adopted.

Mr. S. A. Williams proposed a vote of thanks to the retiring president, Lt. Gen. Sir C. J. C. Grant, paying tribute to his work in many directions and his interest in the Society. He also referred to his distinguished military career, and said it was owing to military duties that he was unable to be present that evening.

Mr. F. E. Price seconded the resolution which was carried with acclamation.

Mr. D. M. Sutherland proposed a vote of thanks to the committees, secretary, hon, treasurer, and officers of the Society. Mr. Kynaston seconded and this was carried with acclimation.

The New President

The chairman then proposed the election of Lt. Col the Rt. Hon. Lord Forester as president, the motion being seconded by the Hon. Sir Hal Colebatch( Agent General for Western Australia). In the course of his speech they all realised it was going to be a very important year. The Coronation ceremonies would attract, visitors from all parts of the world, amongst whom would be many old Salopians. The Society could do a great deal towards contributing to the entertainment and enjoyment of those visitors, and he was sure they would all, individually and collectively, regard it as a privilege to do the best they could in that respect. They were under a deep debt of gratitude to Lord and Lady Forester in undertaking a task which would not be altogether a light one. He could assure them that they could rely confidently on the help and support of the committee and all the members of the Society.

The resolution was carried with acclamation and Lord Forester was then decorated with the insignia of office and took the chair.

Lord Forester, responding, said he would like to thank the members for the great honour they had done him. He hoped he would be able to carry out the duties of president to their satisfaction.  Certainly, any Society to do with Shropshire had his most heartfelt interest and support.

A distinguished list of vice-presidents was elected, and then Mr. E. Clark proposed the re-election of the general committee and said that the amount of work they had done was astonishing.          This was carried.

Mr. Tom E. Davies proposed the re election of Mr. Cyril Wosencroft as hon., secretary, and paid high tribute to his work. The motion was carried with applause. Replying, Mr. Cyril J. Wosencroft said they could, he thought, congratulate themselves on having another very successful year. During the period they had lost by resignation or death 25 members, but against that they had elected 24 new members, so they stood  very much as they were. To elect 24 new members during the year was, he supposed, quite good, but in view of their losses it was not quite good enough, and they could do better if they had the co-operation of members. Members could help the committee tremendously to further the interests of the Society, and if they were going to be really successful it was essential that everyone should co-operate, which he felt sure they would do.

Since the last annual meeting the committee had decided to introduce, associate members. That meant that the sons and daughters of members of the Shropshire Society in London under 22 years, of age would be admitted to the Society at reduced Subscription rates, namely 5s. per annum.. They hoped to obtain a large number of associate members during the coming year.

In conclusion, the secretary expressed appreciation of the work of his assistant, Miss Cripps.

He added that the committee would appreciate any suggestions from the members for improving the Society or for the perfecting of any, of the rules or methods which were already in existence.

Mr. George Palmer was re-elected hon. treasurer of the Society; and Mr. E. G. Douglas. Evans hon. auditor,

Mr. F. C. Hoyle proposed the re-election of the hon. correspondents of the society, who, he said, numbered nine and represented the principal towns in the county. They were very grateful to those gentle men for the services they rendered to the Society from time to time. Miss A. Woosnam seconded the resolution, which was carried.

Mr. Wosencroft reminded members of the annual banquet of the Society which was to be held at the Mayfair Hotel, Berkeley Square, W., in April, and expressed the hope that they would all attend. He said that in this Coronation year they wanted a really splendid banquet, a worthy forerunner of the brilliant festivities that would follow it. They would again this year have a re-union al the Shrewsbury Flower Show; and any members who could get down to Shrewsbury on that occasion would have a delightful time.

Mr. Wosencroft concluded by moving a vote of thanks to Sir Alexander Stanier for taking the chair. Lord Forester seconded.

Afterwards the newly-elected President and Lady Forester received members and friends in the Grand Hall, where dancing followed until midnight.

During an interval in the dancing Lord Forester expressed on behalf of his wife and himself, his great pleasure to be among them. He thanked the committee for all they had done to make the evening such a success.

BROSELEY

MOTHERING SUNDAY was observed at the Parish Church on Sunday, commencing with Corporate Communion at-8 a.m. for the Mothers’ Union, at which there were about 40 communicants. The Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector), was the celebrant. Festal evensong with holy baptism, was held at 6-30, when about 50 members of the Mothers’ Union met at the Rectory, and dressed in white cape and black dresses, and in the charge of Mrs. J. G. Broadhurst (enrolling member), and Mrs. W. J. Street, (hon. secretary), with banner bearers (Mesdames B. Jones, W. Pounthey and H. Ward), marched in procession to the church, headed by the cross bearer, Mr. Gerald Oakley, and the rector. At the south entrance they were met by the surpliced choir, who led them to their seats, singing a processional hymn. At the christening service the infant was presented with a Coronation Bible, the gift of the mothers. Special hymns were sung by the mothers’ choir, including the vesper hymn, and the choir led the singing of other appropriate hymns, under the conductorship of the choirmaster, Mr. Ronald York, who was also at the organ. The Rev. C. S Jackson conducted the service, and also: Preached.  The collection was for church expenses,

ADJOURNED GENERAL ANNUAL LICENSING MEETING.

This meeting for the Borough of Wenlock was held in the Town Hall on Tuesday, before Alderman J. Nicklin (chairman), Alderman T. H. Thompson  (Deputy Mayor), and Mr. J. Barker.

Mr. G. Espley, Wellington, made application on behalf of 48 licensed victuallers in the Borough for a modification of the hours on Sundays from 12.30 p.m. to 2-30 p.m., to 12, noon to 2 p.m. He was supported by a large number of licensees from the Iron-Bridge and Madeley districts, who were present in court. He suggested that the alteration would give licensees longer leisure hours in the afternoon in which to get out and enjoy themselves, and further, that it would bring the opening hours into conformity with those of other districts around. — Mr J. Whittaker, of The Tontine Hotel, Iron-Bridge, spoke in favour of the application, and considered it would be better for the customers as well as the licensees. — Supt. Ridgway (Bridgnorth) said it would be, much better to have uniform hours, and the alteration would be in conformity, with the hours in the surrounding area. He, stated that there was no objection by the public. — The Justices granted the application, and decided for the alteration to commence on Sunday March 21.

20th March 1937

JACKFIELD

COALFORD METHODIST CHURCH. —In aid of the church funds, on Sunday, after evening service, a concert was given in the Schoolroom. In the absence of Mr. T. Jones, Dawley, Mr. T. Wright presided. The programme consisted of tenor solos by Mr. Edward Hudson, violin solos by Mr. M. Humphries, Iron-Bridge, banjo solos by Mr. Walter Hudson, recitations by Miss D. Pearce, Iron-Bridge, and selections by members of the Jackfield Prize Silver Band. Mr. Walter Hudson also provided the pianoforte accompaniments. Mr. George Stewart was responsible for the arrangements.

BENTHALL

FINED AT CHESTER. — John Raleigh (35), of Benthall, was fined £3 and ordered to pay £1 5s. special costs, at Chester on Wednesday, for driving a light goods van without due care and attention near Chester on Feb. 9. It was stated that as a result of his failure to observe signals given by another driver he almost collided with a car in which Mr. Justice du Parcq and Mr. Justice Lawrence were returning from Chester Assizes to their lodging at Christleton Bank.—Defendant, in evidence, said his van was not running too well that evening. He was travelling slowly on his correct side of the road. When the big limousine pulled out in front of him he was under the impression that the driver was overtaking other traffic, and he (witness) followed. He did not see the signal given by the driver of the judges’ car. Defendant added he was scheduled as a first-class driver during the war.

BROSELEY

C. AND U ASSOCIATION

In connection with the annual general meeting of the local men’s branch, a smoking concert and social evening were held on Monday. In the absence of the chairman of the branch, Ald. J. Nicklin took the chair.

Mr. J. Floyer-Benthall, Benthall Hall, was elected president, and Dr. Boon and Mr Hugh Welsh (Willey Old Hall), as vice-presidents. The following officers were elected for the ensuing year:—Chairman, Mr. E. H. Shorting; vice-chairman, Mr. J. G. Broadhurst; hon. treasurer, Mr. W. S. Instone; hon. secretary, Mr. W. R. Pountney. The committee was re-elected en bloc, with the addition of three extra names.

The nominations of the officers, delegates and representatives of the association for 1937 were accepted: Mr. C. T. Harrison was elected from the local branch committee to serve with the respective branch officers on the Divisional Executive Committee of the association, and Messrs. W. R. Pountney, F. Oakley and W. W. Ward were elected as representatives to serve on the Wrekin Fete Committee.

The chairman announced an apology from the Member, Col. J. Baldwin-Webb, for being unable to be present. The remainder of the evening was spent in harmony, and the entertainers, who had been brought over by Mr. Ridgwell, the agent, were Mr. Coxon and Mr. Taylor, Wellington, who gave songs and humorous items, with Mr. Ridgwell at the piano.

Mr. Ridgwell gave a brief address.

AMATEUR DRAMATIC SOCIETY

The Society gave its tenth season’s annual performances in the Town Hall on Thursday and Friday, presenting “The Ghost Train,” a drama in three acts. Mr. R. Steventon, Wellington, was the producer, and the high standard of acting was fully maintained.

The: cast was as follows Mr. Norman Ball., Dr. S. Hoy, Mrs. Charles Davis, Mr. J. B. Dixon, Miss M. Oswell, Miss A. Lloyd, Mr. Walter E. Davies,  Miss Louie Garbett, Mr. James Aston, Mr. Matt Davis, Mr. S. Sargeant and Mr. J. Harris.

Mr. W. E. Davis, Miss. L. Garbett and. Mr. Norman Ball gave excellent performances, and were well supported, by the other members of the cast, the teamwork being good throughout.

At the intervals Miss Nellie Thompson, Much Wenlock, played on the pianoforte. The stage effects were carried out by Messrs. C. Davis, J. Harris, Mrs Walter Davis, Miss Woodland and Masters K. Davis and F. Roberts. Other helpers behind the scenes were Miss Freda Roberts (prompter), Messrs. G. Gittings and. H. Harris (stage mangers). Mr J. Braddon, Oakengates assistance with the “make-up” and was also responsible for the scenery, while Mr. A. O. Jones and Mr. C. Davis were door Stewards.

27th March 1937

MUCH WENLOCK

Lily Gallier (married woman), High Street, Broseley, was charged with stealing a pair of leather gauntlet gloves, valued at 8s., from a cloak-room at the Town Hall, Broseley, Jan. 27, the property Of Miss Sybil Ruth Harvett. Defendant pleaded “Not guilty.” — Miss Harvett of 23, King Street, Broseley, said she went to a dance at the Town Hall on the above date, arriving there at about 8-30. She went to the cloakroom, where she left her coat, with the gloves in the pocket. The gloves were in the pocket at 10 p.m. When she went to go home at about 11 o’clock, however, she found the gloves were missing. She reported the matter to the caretaker, and also to the police the next day. She identified the pair which were handed to her as her property, but said she had not done the repairs which were now on them. Some days after wards a Mrs. Edwards came into the shop where she worked with her mother, and witness saw the gloves on her hands. She afterwards went across to Mrs. Edwards’ house, and asked her if she could see the gloves, which she definitely recognised as her property. Mrs. Edwards eventually gave her them back, and witness handed them to the police. She asked Mrs. Edwards where she had had them from, and she replied that she had had them from Mrs. Gallier. — Defendant, questioning witness queried the correctness of the times given by her, as she said she (defendant), left for home at 9-15 on this evening.—Sarah Ann Edwards (married woman), of 31, King Street, Broseley, spoke of having visited Mrs. Gallier on Feb. 6. She was wearing at the time a pair of old fur backed gloves.  She mentioned to Mrs. Gallier that her gloves appeared to be in a mess, and that she would have to get another pair before she went on her next visit to Manchester. Mrs. Gallier said, “Don’t bother, I’ve got a pair which will suit you.” She went upstairs and fetched the pair of gauntlet, gloves, gave them to her, and witness thanked her. She gave defendant nothing for the gloves, and she stated in reply to Mr. Barker, that she was related to the defendant. — P.-C. Ogilvie said that after searching for the gloves in vain, he interviewed Miss Harvett on March 12, when she handed them to him. On the following day he interviewed the defendant in the presence of her husband, Inspector. Machin accompanying him asked about the gloves, defendant said, “I don’t know anything about the gloves. I found them outside Mr. White’s shop. I did not take them,” and said she had mentioned the finding of the gloves to Mrs. Perks, of Benthall. He then informed Mrs. Gallier that he had the gloves. She recognised them, but said she did not steal them. She then made a statement, saying that she found the gloves in High Street, Broseley, on Feb. 19, at about 1-20 a.m., when coming from a dance at the Town Hall. Defendant said that Mrs. Edwards had said to her; “Have you got a pair of gloves to lend me?” and she lent her those she said she found. She did not report the finding of them to the police, because they were not expensive. — Alice Helena Perks, of Benthall, said that no one had mentioned anything to her about gloves, or the finding of a pair of gloves.— After retirement, the chairman said the Justices considered the case proved against defendant, and they had taken a lenient view of the matter. She was placed on probation under the First Offenders’ Act, under the probationary officer, Mrs. March, and was ordered to pay the costs of 19s.

An application for the recovery of possession of a house and premises at 8, Barratt’s Hill, Broseley, by Ellen Watkins, of 5, Queen Street, Broseley, from George Tonkiss, 74, Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury, was heard, and an order made for one month.

3rd April 1937

BROSELEY

CRICKET CLUB DANCE.— The annual carnival dance was held in the Town Hall on Easter Monday. Mr. P. Jones was M.C., and Hal Jones’s Dance Band, Wellington, provided the music. Prizes were won by Mr. A. Evans (Jackfield), and Miss Potts, in an elimination dance, and by Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Hall in a spot waltz dance. In a competition for a cake, Miss Clark, Old Park, was successful. Mrs. Jones (Wesley House), and other helpers were in charge of the refreshments, and Mr. J. Brown was door steward. The arrangements were carried out by the Bev. C. S. Jackson, Mr. Matt. Davis (treasurer), and Mr. J. B. Dixon (secretary of the club).

PARISH CHURCH.—On Good Friday evening the augmented by members of ‘other’ choirs in the district; gave an excellent performance of Stainer’s “Crucifixion,” the rector (Rev. C. S. Jackson), presiding. The soloists Were Mr. T. H. Thompson, Much Wenlock (bass); Mr. Herbert Evans (bass), Mr: F. S. Francis (tenor), and Mr. W. E. Price (tenor), with Mr. Ronald  Yorke, Madeley (organist); at the organ. A collection was taken for the memorial garden and the churchyard funds. Easter Sunday services consisted of celebrations of Holy Communion at 6, 7 and 8 a.m., the rector (Rev. C. S. Jackson), being the celebrant. Choral Eucharist was held at 10-45 a.m., which was attended by Lord and Lady Forester (Mayor and Mayoress of Wenlock). At evensong the choir sang the anthem, “Now is Christ risen” (John E. West), the bass solo being taken by Mr. Herbert Evans. The collections throughout the day were for the rector’s Easter offerings.

THE MARRIAGE took place at the Methodist Church on Easter’ Monday of Miss Edith: Malines Oakley, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Oakley, 22, high Street, and Mr. Walter Raymond Batchelor, elder son of the late Mr. G. W. R. Batchelor and Mrs. J. Bryan, Woodlands Road, Broseley Wood. Both are well known in the district, Miss Oakley having been formerly a Sunday school teacher at the Methodist Church, and for some time engaged on the nursing staff at the Iron-Bridge Infirmary, While Mr. Batchelor has been for some time head of the laboratory at the, works of Messrs. Craven Dunhill and Co., Ltd., Jackfield, and a late secretary of the Broseley United Brotherhood. The officiating clergyman was the Rev. R. H. Osborne, Methodist minister. The service was choral, with Mrs. Arthur Harris at the organ. The bride, who was given away by her father, was dressed in pink crepe-de-chine, a pink veil, with a wreath of orange blossom, and pink gloves and shoes. She carried a bouquet of white tulips and fern. She was attended by Miss A. Morris, Willey, chief bridesmaid, her cousin, and Miss V. Bryan, stepsister of the bridegroom, who wore powder blue crepe dresses,   with veils of blue and silver leaves, and silver shoes, and carried bouquets of pink tulips and fern. The best man was Mr. Arthur Batchelor, of the Royal Air Force, brother of the bridegroom. A reception was held at the Methodist Sunday schoolroom, and later the happy couple left to take up residence at their new home in Coalbrookdale, the bride wearing a light tweed coat over a bottle green tunic, with a fawn hat and shoes and gloves to tone. They received gifts from the Methodist Sunday school scholars; the choir and members of the Crusaders’ Club, the nursing, staff of the Iron-Bridge Infirmary, the staff of Messrs. Craven, Dunnill and Co., Ltd., and the managing director.

BROSELEY

A PRETTY WEDDING took place at the Congregational Church on Saturday, the Rev. C. E. Wright, minister officiating, between Miss Alice Beatrice Corfield, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. T. Corfield, Broseley Wood, and Mr. William Henry Boden, third son of Mr. and Mrs. John Boden, Madeley Wood. Mrs. W. Williams was at the organ. The bride, who was given away by her father, wore an ankle-length dress of ivory satin, with a wreath and a veil and carried a bouquet of Madonna lilies and carnations. Three bridesmaids were in attendance. The chief bridesmaid, Miss Margaret Corfield, cousin of the bride, wore a dress of blue crepe-de-Chine, with a silver headdress, and carried a bouquet of pink tulips and maidenhair fern: and the Misses Kathleen and Phyllis Roden (sisters of the bridegroom), were wearing dresses of taffeta blue, with headdresses to match, and had bouquets of pink tulips with maidenhair fern, the gifts of the bridegroom. Mr. Dennis Boden, brother of the bridegroom, was best man. At the reception, which was held in the schoolroom, over 40 guests were present. Mr. and Mrs. Boden will live at Cobwell Road, Broseley Wood.

DISTRICT COUNCIL Wednesday, AU. J. Nicklin presiding.

Reporting on finance, the town clerk stated that on the general district account, after cheques being drawn that day to the sum of £123 1s. 3d., the credit balance would be £15 14s. 8d. The water account, after cheques being drawn to the amount of £301 15s. Pd., would be in debit 15s., and taking the two accounts together, the debit would be £28 0s. 4d., as against a credit last year. He explained that the adverse balance was due to expenses in opposing the Wolverhampton Corporation’s Water Bill, and increased expenditure on road repairs during the past year. — The chairman, commenting on their financial position, said they would have to go very carefully in their expenditure during the coming year, as they had no reserve to draw upon.

The collector A. G. Fenn, reported that of the last half-year’s Water rate, the nett outstandings were £7 18s. 8d., which low figure was stated to be a record.—The meeting decided to continue the practise of issuing summonses during the last month of each current half-year’s rates against defaulting ratepayers.

Mr. E. H. H. Shorting reported a complaint of the condition of the footpath, on the steep part in the Dingle, and the surveyor was instructed to have it repaired with a heavier material than ashes, which was soon washed away during heavy rains.

Mr. T. W. Howells mentioned the awkward position in which a lamp standard had been left in the middle of the pavement in Church Street, after the recent improvements carried out by the County Council, and the clerk promised to communicate with the county surveyor in the matter.

The sanitary inspector reported on the progress of the erection of the public convenience near Birch Row, and a cheque for £100 was -drawn in favour of the contractor.

Mr. A. O. Callear (water engineer), reported that all water rents had been paid, and there were no outstanding arrears. He stated that the new pipes to carry out the repairs to the water main at Jackfield had arrived, and it was decided to lay the pipe line on the upper road at a lesser depth than the original service, to give easier access in the event of further repairs being needed through the general movement of the landslide there.

17th April 1937

JACKFIELD

OLD FOLKS’ PARTY.—Upwards of 30 of the old folks of the parish spent an enjoyable evening on April 8, at St. Mary’s Hall, Where they were entertained to their annual party, which was made possible from funds obtained by the parish choir of carol singers; when touring the district last Christmas time. Eighteen meals were also sent out to the homes of the old people who were unable to attend.—Mr. Hayward Davis (Broseley), and Mr. J. W. Harrison arranged the catering, and the meals were served by lady members of the Parish Church. The rector (Rev. F. J. R. Mason), presided. Afterwards the company was entertained to an excellent miscellaneous concert, contributed by the following:— Pianoforte duet, by Mrs. F. J. Mason and Mrs. F. Clay; songs by Miss Kathleen Hudson, Mr. R. Duce (Dawley), Mr. Harrison (Madeley), and Mrs. E. Hadley; step dancing by Messrs. N. Hudson and T. Green; and piano-accordion selections by Mr. R. Cowdell (Madeley). One of the chief items of the evening was a ventriloquial sketch, introducing three characters, entitled “Poor Old Jenny,” written and performed by the rector. Mr. B. N. Moore of Madeley, sent a parcel of books, which were distributed, and each also received a present of a parcel of tea for the women, and tobacco for the men, which were provided out of the funds. At the close Mr. J. W. Harrison thanked Mr. Isaac Cross for his assistance in making the arrangements, and the rector expressed thanks to the organisers and the artistes. Mr. Lawrence Hearn carried out the secretarial duties, and Miss Ethel: Perkins provided the pianoforte accompaniments. It was decided to reduce the age from 62 years to 60 years and upwards for next year’s party.

LATE MRS. G. LEWIS.—The funeral of Mrs. Sarah Lewis (widow of Mr. George Lewis), whose death occurred on the previous Thursday after a short illness at her home, The Cottage, took place on Saturday. A service was held at the Parish Church, the rector (Rev. F. J. R. Mason) officiating. The family mourners were Mr. and Mrs. E. H. Lewis (son and daughter-in-law); Mr and Mrs. A. Colley (son-in-law and daughter); Mr. G. W. Hall (adopted son); Mrs. R. Hall (daughter-in-law); Mr. W. Hurdley (brother); Miss D. Hall (granddaughter); Mr. G. Lewis (grandson); Messrs. F. Yates, U. Heighway and T. Duckett (nephews) and the Misses G. and N. Heighway (nieces). The bearers were friends and neighbours. There were many floral tributes, which included one from Messrs. Maw and Co., Ltd., where Mrs. Lewis had been employed for forty years.

BROSELEY

CONSERVATIVE DANCE

A grand dance, organised by the committee of the local branches, to choose “Miss Broseley,” who will compete in the final dance, to be held at Wellington, when “Miss Wrekin” will be chosen, was held in the Town Hall on April 9. The hall had been tastefully decorated for the occasion by Mr. W. B. Pountney (caretaker), and Mr. W. W. Ward. A company of about 80 attended, and Mr. P. W. Parr carried out the duties of M.C.

Mr. and Mrs. Coxon (Wellington), acted as judges in the competition, and were introduced by Mr. W. M. Ridgwell, agent for the division. During the course of the evening five of the lady dancers were selected, who, following a “Paul Jones” dance, paraded the hall, and the final choice fell upon Miss Marriot Onions, of Barratt’s Hill Farm, and Mrs. Coxon performed the ceremony of “sashing” her. Miss Onions has previously appeared as “Miss Broseley” at a Shrewsbury Carnival, and also as “Carnival Queen” at one of the Iron-Bridge carnivals.

Spot dance prizes were won by Mr. S. Heighway and his partner. Miss S. Watson, the prizes for which were presented by Lady Norah More (Barrow House), chairman of the women’s branch. Refreshments were served by Miss Potts (The Deanery), assisted by Mesdames J. G. Broadhurst., Renwick and P. Archer. The door stewards were Mr. J. G. Broadhurst., Mr. W. W. Ward and Mr. Renwick (The Grange), and the secretarial duties were carried out by Mr. W. R. Pountney (secretary of the men’s branch).

DEATH OF ALD. W. J. LEGGE

WENLOCK BOROUGH COUNCIL’S OLDEST MEMBER

A LEADING FIGURE OF INDUSTRY IN MADELEY DISTRICT

The death occurred on Saturday of Ald. William John Legge, of Upper House, Madeley, at the age of 86..

The son of the late Mr. George Legge, of the same address, Ald. Legge was one of the leading figures of industry in the district, being a roofing tile manufacturer for most of his life. He was also a director of Maw and Co., Jackfield (encaustic and glazed tile manufacturers), and chairman of the directors up to three years ago, and he served the directorate until his death. He was also a director of the Neway Manufacturing Co., of Coalport, and chairman of the directors of the local Gas Company until it was taken over by the Severn Valley Corporation.

Wenlock Borough Council’s Oldest Member.

Ald. Legge was the oldest member of the Wenlock Borough Council, having first been elected in 1887. He was raised to the aidermanic bench in 1904, the same year being made a Justice of the Peace for the borough. For many years he was chairman of the Madeley Sanitary Authority and retained his membership of the Council until his death.

Always of a retiring disposition he refused honours frequently offered him, declining the office of Mayor of the borough and that of the freedom of the borough.

Members of his family have a fine record of public service. His brother-in-law, the late Ald. A. B. Dyas, was also a member of the council for 49 years, and his nephew, Ald. W. G. Dyas. O.B.E., has served the same local body for 33 years.

As a Churchman Mr. Legge long he remembered for generous gifts. He was. a sidesman at St. Michael’s Church, Madeley, for many years and a churchwarden for over 30 years. The renovation of the church from 1911 to 1914 owes much to his liberality as a leading benefactor.            His generous donation toward the building of Madeley’s Old Age Pensioners’ Rest Room will always he remembered, his name being on one of its foundation stones,—Mr. Legge was a manager and treasurer of the C. of E. elementary schools, Madeley.

He responded to the late Duke of Cambridge’s appeal for the Royal Salop Infirmary with a gift of £1.000

In the realm of sport he was well known as a cricketer, playing many years for the Madeley club, and for the county. In the hunting field he was a keen follower of the Albrighton and Wheatland Hounds. He was also interested in the Shropshire beagles.

A lifelong Conservative, he was vice-President of the Wrekin Conservative and Unionist Association. He was a member of the Anstice Memorial Hall committee.

24th April 1937

BROSELEY

CORONATION WHIST DRIVE AND DANCE. — A successful whist drive and dance were held in the Town Hall on Wednesday in aid of the Coronation celebration funds. The event was organised by the dance committee, and Mr. Walter E. Davis carried out the secretarial duties. The whist was held in the Conservative room and the dance in the Hall, both being gaily decorated with emblems and Coronation colours by the male members of the Committee. Mr. E. H. H. Shorting carried out the duties of M.C. for whist, with the assistance of Messrs T. W. Howells and W. T. Street as stewards, and Mesdames J. G. Broadhurst, T. W. Howells and J. Nicklin also gave valuable help. The prize-winners were:—1 Mrs. H. Seabury, 2 Mrs. S. Roberts, 3 Mrs. John Hill; 1 Mrs. T. Instone (playing as gentleman), 2 Mrs. Jos. Jones (as gentleman), 3 Mr. E. C. S. White. A prize of an iced cake for the lucky number was won by Mr. T. W. Howells. In a competition for a fowl Miss Clare Davies was successful. Lady Norah More, of Barrow House, presented the prizes and was accorded a vote of thanks. Over 120 attended the dance, for which the joint M.C’s. were Mr. James Roberts and Mr. J. B. Dixon. The programme included spot-light and novelty dances and novelties were also handed round. Spot dance prizes were won by Mr. K. Gainham and Miss Josephine Ritchings, Mr. T. Tranter and Miss Doris Jones, the prizes being presented by Mrs. Broadhurst and Mrs. T. W. Howells. The refreshment department was in the charge of the ladies of the committee. The dance committee secretary at the close thanked the helpers and all who had supported the effort. Messrs. J. G. Broadhurst, Jos. Jones and Arthur Harris gave assistance as door stewards.

POLICE COURT

Tuesday, before Ald. J. Nicklin (Chairman), Col. G. G. Heywood, Ald. T. H. Thompson (deputy Mayor), and Messrs. E. J. Exley and C. W. Edwards.

Before commencing the business of the court, the chairman made reference to the great loss the Bench had sustained in the death of Ald. W. J. Legge, of Madeley. He said that he was one of the oldest magistrates in the borough, having held office since 1904, and as a magistrate had given most valuable help in the discharge of their duties. Capt. A. H. Thorn-Pudsey associated himself with the chairman’s re- marks, as also did Inspector J. H. Machin on behalf of the police. At the express wish of the court it was decided to send a letter of condolence to the relatives.

Herbert Davies, 42, King St., Broseley (miner); Frank Halley, 60, Bridgnorth Road, Broseley (labourer); and George F. Newbound, 17, Woodlands Road, Broseley (painter), were each charged with riding a cycle on the footpath leading from Quarry Road, Broseley, to Bridge Road, Benthall, while proceeding to work on April 5. Defendants, who did not appear, sent letters asking to be excused attendance as they would have to lose time from work.—P.C. Ogilvie (Broseley) proved the charges, and each of the defendants was fined 10s. including costs. The Bench hoped this would act as a warning to cyclists.

BROSELEY

DEATH of MR. G. BALL

The death occurred on Thursday at the age of 67, of Mr. George Ball, at his home, 1, Dark Lane, after an illness of about two weeks.

Mr. Ball was widely known throughout the districts of Broseley. Iron-Bridge, Coalbrookdale and Madeley, principally through his occupation as foreman fitter to the Harrington Joint Water Works, by which body he had been employed for the last thirty years.

A native of Jackfield, he came to Broseley at the time of his marriage 46 years ago. Mr. Ball was an important member of the Methodist Church, where he was a most regular worshipper, and for many years he had held the offices of trustee and chapel steward. He was also a member of the United Brotherhood and for many years was a member of the Fire Brigade.

He is survived by a widow, two sons (Harry and Norman) and an only daughter (Mrs. Fred Aston, Strethill, Coalbrookdale).

1st May 1937

WENLOCK WATER SCHEME

PUBLIC INQUIRY INTO £15,650 PROJECT

SHIFNAL AND DAWLEY COUNCILS VIEWS

A PROTECT by Wenlock Town. Council to install new waterworks at an estimated cost of £15,650 formed the subject of a Ministry of Health inquiry at Iron-Bridge on Tuesday, into an application by the Corporation for sanction to a loan for the amount mentioned.

The Inspector of the Ministry who held the inquiry was. Mr. G. Carlyle, M.C., A.M.Inst. C.E., and the case for the Corporation was conducted by Mr. F. W. Derry (Town Cleric).

Mr. H. Revell sen., appeared as clerk to Shifnal Rural Council, and Mr. Revell Phillips, jun. appeared in a similar capacity for Dawley Urban Council, while Mr. E. Darlow (deputy clerk to Wolverhampton Town Council) was also present, but intimated that he did not appear to oppose the application of Wenlock Town Council..

The Town Clerk of Wenlock, after giving details as to estimated population, etc., said that the proposed water undertaking, affected the Madeley and Broseley sanitary divisions, of the borough and a small part of the Barrow division. The product of a 1d. rate in the Madeley and Broseley areas was £117. The general rate for Madeley was 13s. 7d. with a water rate of 1s. 6d., while the general rate for Broseley was 13s. 4d., with a 2s. water rate.

The new works proposed to be erected would be situated on a site selected by. Professor Boulton, adjoining Harrington—Beckbury road and about half-a-mile from the present Harrington pumping station, and the Corporation had entered into a provisional contract to purchase one acre of land for the purpose from Major Foster.

Continuing, the Town Clerk said the period of loan asked for was 30 years. Annual loan charges were estimated at £850, equivalent to a rate of. 7d., and the proposed works would be charged on the Madeley and Broseley Wards.

Growth of Water Undertaking

In order that the Inspector might appreciate the growth of the undertaking, the Town Clerk mentioned that in 1913 the total quantity of water pumped was 84,808,000 galls., and last year it rose to 169½ million gallons. The area of supply for the year was as follows:— Madeley, 71,658,000 gallons; Broseley and part of Barrow, 19,000;000: Shifnal, 30,260,000; Dawley, 33,833,000; part of Wellington rural area, 5,204,000; part of Oakengates in urban area, 2,761,000; and the Apley Estate Bridgnorth, 6,760,000.

The Town Clerk intimated that Shifnal Rural Council had, recently commenced their own water supply scheme and had given notice to terminate their agreement with the Wenlock Corporation, but, the Town Clerk added, any relief which might be anticipated as a result of the withdrawal of Shifnal, would be more than counter-balanced by the anticipated as a result of the withdrawal of Shifnal, would be more than counter-balanced by the anticipated increase in the borough’s requirements and those of outside authorities who had agreements with the Corporation for the supply of water.

Principal: Grounds for Application

The principal grounds on which the application for sanction to a loan were made were:—the necessity of implementing the present supply; the necessity of providing an efficient works to ensure a. good supply; and that the yield from the present works had decreased in the last few years.

Great Housing Activity

Dealing with the growing needs of the area, the Town Clerk mentioned that the Council had erected 157 houses besides granting assistance to private enterprise; a further 32 houses had just been completed, and 130 more were in course of erection, and a contract for an additional 27 houses had been provisionally accepted. Further, in order to complete the Corporation’s overcrowding and slum clearance schemes it would be necessary to erect an additional 124 houses, making a grand total of 470 houses, of which about 313 had still to be connected, to the main water supply.

Also a new intermediate school, to accommodate 450 scholars, had recently been opened; the public assistance institution had been converted into a hospital, and the estimated consumption of water was 2,000,000 gallons per year; while recently the Corporation had executed two sewage disposal schemes at Madeley and Iron-Bridge, and the Ministry of Health, had also instructed the Corporation to submit a similar scheme for a considerable part of the Broseley Ward.

With regard to the supply to adjoining authorities, the Town Clerk mentioned that Dawley Urban Council had asked for- an increased supply, while the supplies to Oakengates Urban Council and Wellington Rural Council had also increased.

The Ministry of Health, Salop County Council, and Wellington Rural Council were pressing, the Corporation to provide- a supply of water to an area, known as New Works, but having regard to the difficulties under which the Corporation was at present working and the demands on their resources, they had had to refuse, but the Ministry and the authorities mentioned had been informed that the Corporation would favourably consider the matter when they were in a position to do so.

In conclusion, the Town Clerk said that the Corporation felt that it was absolutely imperative that they should have a modern and well-equipped works, to ensure a maximum supply of water in the minimum period of time. The present works had become inefficient and inadequate to meet present needs.

Evidence as to the need for a new waterworks undertaking was given by Professor W. S. Boulton (Birmingham University) and Major A. H. S. Waters (consulting-. engineer).

In reply to Mr. Revell Phillips, sen., Prof. Boulton said that the new works would not, in his opinion, interfere with any existing water interests in the area. It would not affect the districts of Badger, Beckbury or the Grindle Springs..

Major Waters expressed similar opinion. With regard to the scheme he said it was necessary that it should be carried, out as expeditiously as possible. During recent years the yield from the present source of supply had decreased. Major Waters added that in deciding that the existing source should not be further exploited, but that a new source should be developed, the Council had borne in mind the fact that the existing source must be kept in full commission until the completion of the new works. On completion, the use of the existing well and pumping station would be discontinued though they would be kept in readiness in case of emergency.

In reply to Mr. Phillips (jun.), Major Waters said that he could not speak as to any additional cost for supplying water at the present juncture.

Dr. Gepp, medical officer, said he welcomed the guarantee for an adequate supply of water.

Shifnal Council’s View

Mr. Phillips (sen.) said that he did not appear on behalf of Shifnal Rural Council in any contentious frame of mind, but rather to help with regard to the proposed new works by the Corporation, he said his opinion led him to the conclusion that if carried out, they were likely to interfere with the supply at Beckbury. Shifnal Rural Council had launched a water supply scheme, which was but completed, and during the summer they would be in a position to supply their own area and they would have a surplus whereby they could supply Dawley if necessary. With that end in view the Council informed the Ministry, after the inquiry that they proposed to enlarge their pumping main. By being able to do that, he asked the Inspector to take into consideration the question, as to, whether it would not be better for that step to be taken and so relieve the borough of Wenlock of undue expenditure. Shifnal Rural Council wished to help, he said.

Conference Between Authorities Suggested.

Mr Phillips (jun.) said he had been, instructed by Dawley Council to make a request that the position should be fully explored, and that time should be given for Dawley Council to confer with Wenlock and Shifnal authorities. Dawley had been offered a supply of water by Shifnal at a cheaper rate, and he thought a conference of the authorities concerned would be helpful. The existing agreements could then be considered fully.

Mr. Marshall, of Messrs. Wilcox, Raikes and Marshall, consulting engineers, Birmingham, gave details of the Shifnal scheme. He said that when the scheme was complete there would be, after Shifnal had been supplied, a surplus of 182,000 gallons a day available to an outside authority if necessary.

In reply to the Town Clerk of Wenlock, Mr. Marshall agreed with the remark of Major-Waters that the present works of the Wenlock Corporation were inefficient and inadequate. When the inquiry was held in connection with the Shifnal scheme no mention was then made of supplying Dawley.

The Rev, R. A. Giles (chairman of: Shifnal Rural Council) said that the parishioners in the neighbourhood were anxious about the springs as a result of the proposal of Wenlock Corporation. He added that his Council had passed a unanimous resolution in favour of a conference being called of the authorities concerned and he understood Dawley Council had passed a similar resolution in the hope of getting co-operation. It was thought that it might be possible to explore means whereby, the three authorities might co-operate. A suggestion had been put forward that the water undertakings would at no distant date be included in regional areas, and he thought therefore that, the question of co-operation was of great importance.

The Inspector: The question you have raised will get special prominence in my report.

The inquiry was then closed and the Inspector afterwards visited the site of the proposed new works.

BROSELEY

THE WEDDING took place on Monday at All Saints’, Halifax, Yorks, with Mr. D. Wood, A.R.C.O. (organist of the Parish Church, Heckmondwike, Yorks.) at the organ and the Lord Bishop of Wakefield (Dr. J. B. Seaton), the Rev. G. S. Jackson (Rector of Broseley), and the Rev. J. C. Longbottom (Vicar of Heckmondwike) officiating, of Miss Constance Ray Birch, younger daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Norman Birch, Eastwood, Lawrence Road, Halifax, and the Rev. John James Broadhurst, B.A., only son of Mr. and Mrs. John G. Broadhurst, Padman House, Broseley. The bride wore a dress of white satin beaute with sleeves heavily embroidered with small pearl beads, a silver plaited lame coronet and a silver embroidered net veil lent by her sister, Mrs. Leonard Whelen. She carried a sheaf of pink lancifolium lilies. Mrs. Leonard Whelen (sister of the bride) was matron of honour, and Miss Oline May Greenwood was bridesmaid. They wore green satin poult trimmed with cyclamen, with plaited coronets of the same material, and had sheaves of shaded cyclamen carnations. The young attendants were Miss Shirley Ray Pagett and Miss Ruth Ann Longbottorn, and they wore green georgette dresses with green velvet ribbon and floral headdresses. They carried Victorian nosegays of shaded cyclamen carnations. The bride was given away by her father, the best man was Capt.. George Blackburn, J.P., and the groomsmen were Mr. Leonard Whelen (Master of Ceremonies), Mr. A. M. Moore, BA., Mr. W. D. Birch and Mr. Trevor Howells. After a reception the bride and, bridegroom left for the south of England, the bride wearing a navy three-piece, trimmed with arctic fox, and a petersham hat to tone.

BROSELEY

THE MARRIAGE was solemnised on Saturday at the parish Church of Miss Sarah Watson, youngest daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs Arthur Watson, of 30 the Delph, and Mr Stephen Heighway, third son of Mr and Mrs. Heighway, of the Bird-in-Hand, Iron-Bridge. The Rev. C. S. Jackson (Rector) officiated. Given away by her brother (Mr William Watson), the bride was attired in a white satin blouse and grey tailor-made costume with shoes and hat to match, and she carried a bouquet of white carnations. Her bridesmaid was Muss Edith Heighway, youngest sister of the bridegroom, who wore a pink crépe-de-Chine blouse and a grey tailor-made costume and carried a bouquet of pink carnations. Mr E. Heighway, of Coalbrookdale, brother of the bridegroom, acted as best man. A reception was afterwards held at their new house “Stephencroft,” Smith Bank, Broseley, and later they left for Birmingham, where the honeymoon was spent. The bride received many presents from her fellow workers at the Southorn, Broseley Tobacco Pipe Works, where she has been employed since the age of 14 years, and the bridegroom was the recipient of a present from his workmates at the Coalbrookdale Iron Works.

8th May 1937

JACKFIELD

THE JACKFIELD PRIZE SILVER Band gave its first open-air concert of the season on Sunday at the Free Bridge. An excellent programme consisting of marches, selections and a euphonium solo by Bandsman Percy Jones was given under the conductorship of Bandmaster W. Ellis. A collection was taken under special permit for the Band’s funds.

BROSELEY

WOMEN CONSERVATIVES. — The members of the Broseley women’s branch of the Conservative and Unionist Association enjoyed a very interesting evening at the Town Hall on Wednesday. A lantern lecture was given by Miss Jenkinson on “Madeira”, and Lady Nora More presided.

DISTRICT COUNCIL

Wednesday, Ald, A. A. Exley (vice-chairman) presiding.

The Town Clerk (Mr. F. W. Derry), reporting on finance, said that the General District Account, after paying in the May precept, would be in credit to the extent of £144 9s. 2d., as against a credit balance of £124 14s. 3d. at the corresponding period of last year. After cheques being drawn that day, the Water Account would show a debit of £63 4s. 11d., as against a credit balance of £145 9s. 2d. last year. He explained that the adverse balance was partly due to the payment of charges in connection with the opposition of the Wolverhampton Corporation Water Bill, but it would right itself as the year went on.

The sanitary inspector’s report showed the district free from notifiable diseases.

Arising out of a complaint received respecting the depositing of tin cans and other rubbish on pasture land adjoining the King Street council houses to the danger of cutting the feet of cattle, the housing agent was instructed to warn the tenants.

15th May 1937

WILLEY (Broseley)

CORONATION CELEBRATIONS. —Linley, Willey, Barrow and Posenhall parishes joined together for the celebrations and Willey was made the centre. The programme was as follows— 2-30 p.m., service at Willey Church. conducted by the rector (Rev. W. G. Beale); Punch and Judy show for children; six-a-side football competition; clay pigeon shooting competition; hidden treasurer hunts, one for ladies and one for children; tug-of-war for ladies;  blindfold wheelbarrow race for ladies and gentlemen over 50 years of age (prize, a leg of mutton, given by Mr. T. Chatham). In the evening a concert was given in the Social Club by the Dawley Men’s Own choir, during which His Majesty’s speech was broadcast. The health of the King was drunk by all present, proposed by Mr. Hugh Welsh, Willey Old Hall. From 4 to 6 p.m. all the parishioners who were able to attend were entertained to tea which was arranged by Mrs. Welsh, assisted by a band of helpers. All arrangements were carried out by a committee under the chairmanship of Mr Welsh.

22nd May 1937

BROSELEY

THE MARRIAGE took place on, Saturday at the Parish Church, the officiating clergyman being the Bev. C. S. Jackson (rector of Broseley), between Miss Joan Mary Boden, elder daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick W. Boden, Fazakerley, Liverpool, and grand-daughter of Mrs. and the late Mr. George Boden, Chapel Road, Broseley, and Mr. Henry Venn, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Henry Venn, Jackfield, formerly of ‘The Tumbling Sailors.” Miss Boden is well-known in the district having, in her capacity of a Post Office clerk, served in the Uppington, Cleobury Mortimer, Jackfield, and Broseley Post Offices. The bride was given away by her father and wore a navy blue costume with a hat and shoes to match. She carried a Coronation prayer book. She was attended by her sister, Miss Jean Boden, Liverpool, who was dressed in a brown costume and a hat to match. The best man was Mr. Victor Pearce, Buildwas, brother-in-law of the bridegroom. A reception was held at the house of the bride’s grandmother, and later the happy couple left for Liverpool.

CORONATION CELEBRATIONS.— As a grand finale to the rejoicings in the town, a dance was held in The Square on Whit Monday. The music was supplied by a local jazz band in comic dress, under the direction of Mr. Sidney Colley and at 11 p.m., the proceedings closed with the National Anthem.

DEATH OF MRS. W. EDGE—The death occurred on Thursday at the Broseley Lady Forester Hospital, after an illness of a few months of Mrs. Ethel Edge, wife of Mr. William Edge, Church View, registrar of births, deaths and marriages for the Borough of Wenlock and Relieving Officer for the district. Mrs. Edge was the youngest daughter of the late Mrs. and Mr. John Dixon (a former registrar for the Broseley district), of the Delph, Broseley. A member of the Church of England, she was up to the last 12 months, staunch worker and worshipper at the Parish Church. In connection with the various offices held by Mr. Edge, she was brought into close touch with many of the poor in the district, with whom she showed great sympathy. She also found pleasure in giving help to the blind and Dr. Barnardo’s institutions. The funeral takes place to-day (Saturday). A service will be held in the Parish Church at 3 p.m. and the interment in the cemetery.

BRITISH LEGION DINNER

To celebrate the Coronation a dinner was held on May 14 in connection with the British Legion. The arrangements were carried out by a sub-committee of the local branch, consisting of Mr. W. J. Ritchings (chairman), Mr. H. H. Wase and Mr. T. Goodall (secretary). The president, Lt.-Col. Lord Forester, presided. Apologies were received from Major Rowland Hunt, Col. G. G. P. Heywood, Capt. E. D. Collins, Mr. J. Floyer, Benthall, Dr. T. Hoy, Inspt. Machin (Iron-Bridge), and Mr. H. W. Gough (chairman of the Iron-Bridge branch of the Legion). After the loyal toast, proposed by Lord Forester, had been honoured,. a very enjoyable evening was spent in toasts and harmony.

The Rev. C. S. Jackson proposed the toast of the “Navy, Army and Air Force,” which was replied to by Capt. Boon. The toast of the evening, “The British Legion,” was submitted by Ald. Nicklin and responded to by Mr. J. A. Madeley. Mr. J. R. Nicklin proposed the toast of “Our President,” which was drunk with musical honours. Lord Forester replied and gave a description of his impressions of the Coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey.

Mr. E. Heighway, Dawley, gave humorous songs, impersonations, monologues, and solos on a musical saw and spoons, while songs were also contributed by Messrs. F. S. Francis and R. Picken, with Mr. Matt. Davis at the pianoforte. The toast of the artistes was proposed by Mr. W. E. Davis and responded to by Mr. F. S. Francis, and Mr. W. J. Ritchings submitted the toast of “Our-Hostess”, which was replied to on behalf of Mrs. Smith, by Mr. Frank Davis.

JACKFIELD

A DANCE, organised by the St. Mary’s Hall entertainments committee in aid of the Parish Church Sunday School children’s outing fund was held on Whit Monday in the St: Mary’s Hall. The M.C’s. were Messrs. Norman Hudson and George Thomas. Spot dance prizes were won by Mr. A. Bryan (Broseley) and Miss Phyllis Hudson, and in a competition for a carton of eggs Miss Olive Hudson was successful. The prizes were presented by Mrs. H. Preece (Coalport), and Mrs. T. J. Hearn respectively. The refreshment department was in the charge of Mesdames G. S. Williams, J. T. Perkins, E. Green, and E. Poole. The secretarial duties were carried out by Mr. Lawrence Hearn. The effort realised over £7.

BAND CONCERT. — On Whit Sunday evening, by permission of Mr. E. J. Exley, J.P., the Jackfield Prize Silver Band gave a concert in the grounds of the Rock House. Under the direction of Bandmaster W. Ellis an interesting programme, which included a euphonium solo by Bandsman P. Jones, was carried through. A collection was taken for the Band’s funds.

JACKFIELD (with Coalport)

CORONATION CELEBRATIONS

The sports, postponed on Coronation Day owing to the wet condition of the field, were held on Saturday in fine weather. At 5 p.m. the children of the parish assembled near the Free Bridge, where a long procession was formed. Headed by the Jackfield Prize Silver Band, under the conductorship of Bandmaster W. Ellis, and marshalled by Mr. J. Pumford (vice-chairman of the committee), it marched to the sports field near the Tuckles Farm, lent by Mr. T. Roberts. The band played selections during the evening. The judging was undertaken by the hon. secretary, Mr. T. C. Gibbs, assisted by Messrs. W. Storey and A. Rogers.    The starters were Messrs. J. Mumford and E. Sykes, and stewards of the course were Messrs. Cox, W. H. Poole and I. Cross.

The prize-winners were as follows:- Pillow fighting, ages 9 to 11 1, H. Maiden; 2, E. Welsh. Ditto, 11 to 14: 1, T. Bird; 2, D. Jones.  Tug-of-war, men: 1, P. Preece’s team; 2, T. W. Evans’ team. Ditto, women: 1, Mrs. J. Hatton’s team; 2, Mrs. J. Pumford’s team. Ditto, boys: 1, Harold Storey’s team; 2, W. Leach’s team. Musical chairs, men: 1, P. Preece; 2, A. Rogers. Ditto, women: 1, Mrs. L. Langford; 2, Miss M. Harrison. Ditto, girls: 1, C. Welsh; 2, I. Evans. Ditto, children under 9: 1, Miss Rogers; 2, Miss E. Wall. Three-legged Race, men: 1, R. Poole and C. Williams; 2. L. Langford and H. Handley. Ditto, women: 1, Misses Audrey Ellis and Mary Harrison; 2, Mrs. T. Green and Miss Ethel Perkins. Ditto, boys: 1, C. Rogers and S. Gilbert; 2, T. Rogers and C. Groves. Ditto, girls: 1, Misses J. Bright and O. Arnold; 2, Miss J. Bradley and N. Phillips. Egg and spoon race, men: 1, T. Green;. P. Preece. Ditto, women: 1, Mrs. T. Green 2, Mrs. J. Pumford. Ditto, boys: 1, Eddie Wylde; 2, P. Jones. Ditto’, girls: D. Leach; 2, I. Groves. Flat race, boys under 9: 1, F. Gallier; 2, D. Johnson; 3, Eric Hughes. Ditto, girls under 9: 1, L. Colley; 2, H. Evans; 3, V. Hadley.

The prizes were presented by Mrs: T. C. Gibbs.

BROSELEY

LATE MR. A. PREECE. — The death occurred on Sunday at his home, 16, Hockley Bank, of Mr. Albert Preece, at the age of 73 after about four weeks’ illness. He was a native of Broseley and died in the house where he had lived the whole of his life. Up to the time of his retirement from his work as a waggoner he had been in the employ of the Broseley Tileries Co., Ltd., for over 58 years.   From his youth he had been a member of the Modern Masons’ Friendly Society. He is survived by three daughters and four sons. His wife died eleven years ago. The funeral took place on Tuesday and a service was held at the Parish Church by the Rev. C. S. Jackson (Rector     ). The bearers were neighbours— Messrs. J Burns, T. Evans, G. Meredith sen, W.Meredith, E. Hartshorne and W. Harrison. The chief mourners were Mr. and Mrs. G. Harratt, Northampton, Mr. and Mrs A. Preece, Northampton, Mr. and Mrs G. Miles, Speeds Lane, Mr. C. Preece,  Homer, Mr. T. Preece, Northampton, Mrs. H. Davies, Birmingham, and Mr. R. Preece, Broseley (sons and daughters and sons-in-law and daughter-in-law); Miss Elizabeth Dudley (sister-in-law), Mr. T. Miles (brother-in-law), Messrs. B. J. Sidney and Stanley Dallier (nephews), Mr. C. Boden and Wilfred Roden (nephew and grand-nephew), Mr. F. Harrah, Northampton and Mr. G. Meredith, jun.

JACKFIELD HOSPITAL COMMITTEE. — A meeting was held in St. Mary’s Hall on Monday, Mr. Hayward Davis (chairman) presiding to allocate the available funds to the hospitals and other institution This was done us follows:— Shropshire Sanatorium £3 3s.; Royal Salop Infirmary £2 2s.; Shropshire Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital £2 2s.; Iron-Bridge Dispensary £2 2s.; St. John Ambulance Brigade 10s. 6d.; Shropshire Orthopedic Hospital £2 12s. 9d. The secretarial duties were carried out by Mr. J. Dodd and Mr. Lawrence Hearn is hon. treasurer.

LATE MRS. W. EDGE

The funeral of Mrs. Ethel Edge, whose death was recorded in last week’s issue, took place on Saturday at the Parish Church. An impressive service was conducted by the rector of Broseley (Rev. C. S. Jackson). The choir led the singing of the hymns “Bless’d are the pure in heart” and “How bright these glorious spirits shine.” The organist Mr. Ronald York also played the “Dead March” in “Saul.” The cortege left the church, preceded by the choir, with Mr. E. C. S. White (diocesan lay reader) as cross bearer, to the chanting of the “Nunc Dimittis,” and escorted the procession to the east gate of the churchyard, en route for Broseley cemetery. The body was conveyed on the draped church bier, attended by friends and choristers, Messrs. P. E. Hartshorne, W. E. Price, C. Davis, W. Oakley, Albert Meredith and L. Harris (registrar of Shifnal district). The family mourners were Mr. W. Edge (widower), Messrs. P. A. Dixon and A. N. Dixon (brothers); Mr. J. Smith, Bucknell (brother-in-law); Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Edge, Cardiff (brother-in-law and sister-in-law); Miss Irene M.. Dixon (niece); Messrs. Leslie, Roy and John B. Dixon and Eddie Smith, Solihull, Birmingham (nephews).

Among those present were Ald. J. Nicklin, Ald. R. A. Rhodes (Dawley), Mr. J. Thompson, representing Ald. J. H. Thompson, Deputy Mayor (Much .Wenlock), Mr. W. E. Davis, Mr. E. S. Owen (Madeley), Mr. E. H. H. Shorting, Mr. W. S. Instone, (churchwardens) and Mr. W. Andrews (hon. treasurer of the Parish Church), Mr. J. R. Nicklin (Lloyds Bank), Mr. J. S. Griffin, Mr. E.. H. Stanley, assistant to Mr F. Mole, (relieving officer, Dawley), Mr. G. Ellis, representing the Master, Matron and staff of The Beeches, Iron-Bridge, Mrs. A. H. Thorn-Pudsey (Broseley Hall), Miss M. Potts (The Deanery), Mrs. D. L. Prestage, Mrs. E. R. Instone, Mrs. J. G. Broadhurst, Mrs. E. C. S. White, Mrs. W. T. Street, Mrs. Oliver, Mrs. Stoner, Mrs. P. E. Hartshorne, Mrs. J. Eaton, Miss P. Eaton, Mrs. Albert Jones (Church Street), Miss Edith Jones, Miss E. Wilkes, Mrs. G. Taylor, Mrs. Jas. Colley, Mrs. W. Taylor, Mrs. M. Molyneux, Miss L. Burnett, Miss Annie Bagley, Mr. and Miss. F. J. Brooks (Ivy House), Mr and Mrs. Walter Hartshorne, Pumford (formerly works manager of  the Broseley Gas Co.), Messrs. T. Francis, H. Mason, C. Edwards, N. Ball, H. Roberts, E. Harris and P.C. Betts.

Later in the afternoon and on Sunday morning the Parish Church bell ringers rang half-muffled peals the bells.

Beautiful flowers were sent by—Bill; Will and Lillie; Amy and Jack; Louie; Arthur, Ada and family; Arthur, Gert and family; Mary and Sis; Eddie and Peggy; Marguerite and Vinen; Mrs. Kitson (Much Wenlock); Mr. and Mrs. Thorn- Pudsey; the Misses Potts; Mrs. D. L. Prestige; Mr. and Mrs. J. Nicklin; staff of Messrs. Thorn-Pudsey and Derry, and Mrs. Harris; Mr. and Mrs. L. Harris and Patrick; Mr. and Mrs. Hopley and staff; Mr. and Mrs. Seabury; Mrs. and the Misses Davis; Mr. and Mrs. F. J. Brooks; Mr. and Mrs. Walter Davis; Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Price; Mr. and Mrs, W. Andrews; Mrs. N. Smith and family (Forester Arms); Mr. and Mrs. Betts; Mr. and Will Oakley; Hilda and Bill; Mr and Percy Hartshorne; Mr. and Mr., Broadhurst; Mr. and Mrs. C. Instone; Mr., Mrs. and Miss Eaton; all at 22 and 9A, Church Street; Mrs. and Miss Gov field; Eva and Florrie Ponntney; Mr. Walter Pountney.

5th June 1937

BROSELEY

BAPTIST CHAPEL. — The Sunday school anniversary was held on Sunday. The service in the morning was taken by the Rev. T. Lloyd Morgan (pastor). A musical service was held in the afternoon, when Mr. E. Correll (treasurer), presided, and an address was given by Pastor E. Evans, Oakengates. The church was filled to overflowing for the evening service, when a sermon was delivered by Pastor E. Evans. During the day hymns were sung by the children, who had been trained by Mr. Harry Evans, Sunday school superintendent. Solos were given by Miss Payne (Wellington), and Master George Mason, and recitations by scholars, Mary Deavall, Ivy Hall, Ethel Russell, Reta Pritchard, and Joan Edge. The singing was conducted by Mr. Leonard Wase, and Mr. Ronald Burns was at the organ. The collections throughout the day, which were for Sunday school funds, amounted to £8 4s. The collectors at the evening service were Messrs. T. Goodall and F. Oakley.

BROSELEY DOMINO LEAGUE

The presentation of the Col. Baldwin-Webb silver challenge cup took place, at Iron-Bridge on Monday. The chairman of the league committee, Mr. J. Plant, who presided, was introduced by Mr. E. Wilde, who congratulated the Bird-in-Hand team on its success. The cup was presented to the captain, Mr. A. Stanley, of the winning team, by the league secretary. Mr. Fred Watson. The health of the winning team was drunk from the cup, and a social evening followed..

Songs were contributed by Messrs. J. Goodall, F. Watson, E. Wilde, J. Potts, J. Parkinson, E. Tristan, and A. Drewball; a duet by Messrs. J. Gooddall and Potts; and a pianoforte solo by Mr. W. Heighway; who also provided the accompaniments, assisted by Mr. J. Goodall, comedian and banjoist.

POLICE COURT

Tuesday, before Ald. J. Nicklin (Presiding), Col. G. G. P. Heywood, Messrs. E. J. Exley and J. S. Barker.

Percy William Parr, of 54, High Street, Broseley, coal merchant, was charged, under the Borough of Wenlock by-laws, with failing to carry a correct weighing instrument on a vehicle on which coal was being carried for sale or delivery, on May 21, at Broseley; under the Weights and Measures Act there was a further charge of possessing for use for trade all unstamped weighing instrument, at the same time and place. Mr. W. F. Blakemore, of Bridgnorth, appeared for defendant, and pleaded guilty on his behalf. — Mr. Harold Birchanall, Inspector of Weights and Measures, Shrewsbury, conducted the prosecution, and gave an outline of the charges adding that defendant had not committed a fraud, but had not exercised sufficient care as a man in his position should have done. — James D. Beveridge, assistant inspector, of Weights and Measures, stated that he stopped defendant when he was delivering coal near the Square, Broseley, and examined the scales on the lorry. He found that the lead plug attached bore the rejected stamp. He asked defendant if he knew the scales had been rejected, and he replied he was not aware of it, and explained that his usual scales, which were a new pair, had been left in the yard, having fallen off the lorry and broken; the old scales on the lorry he had brought to use while the other scales were being repaired. Later the inspector went to Iron-Bridge Station and examined the weights, which had been left in the truck there, and these were found to be correct. The rejected scales were afterwards tested, and found to be a little incorrect in the favour of the purchaser of the coal.—Mr. Birchanall giving evidence, stated that Mr. Parr was registered in 1929 as a coal dealer, and was supplied with copies of the by-laws. October, 1935, was the last occasion when coal scales belonging to defendant were rejected. In reply to Mr. Blakemore, he could not say if the scales now in question were rejected before they came into defendant’s possession, but they were identical with the machine rejected at the date mentioned.—Mr. Blakemore, addressing the Bench, said the scales were not the ones rejected in 1935. The scales came into his client’s possession a number of years ago, but as they were so heavy and unwieldy, he did not make use of them, but used a more modern pattern instead, and only brought the old scales into use on two occasions during that week, owing to the breakage of his usual machine. He explained that the weights were inadvertently left in the truck at the Station during the coal strike rush. He pleaded that no customer had been prejudiced, and as his client had a clean record, he asked the Bench to dismiss the cases on payment of costs.—The Bench imposed a fine of 10s. in each case. They emphasised that there had not been the slightest intention to defraud the purchaser, but there had been carelessness on the part of the defendant.

Arnold Betts, 13, Lambourne Road, Erdington, Birmingham, traveller, was charged with driving a car on the footpath at Madeley Road, Iron-Bridge, at 7-40 p.m., on May 18. Defendant pleaded guilty under extenuating circumstances. — P.-C. Boardman (Iron-Bridge), stated that he saw defendant’s car stationary on the hill, and then start to turn when two cars were approaching, and in turning it mounted the pavement. When he questioned defendant, he replied that he had missed the road to Broseley, and in turning round he had to mount the pavement to avoid the two cars approaching. — Defendant stated that when in the act of turning he saw two cars travelling parallel and racing to get up the hill, and he had to mount the pavement to prevent an accident.—The Bench imposed a fine of 5s., including costs.

BROSELEY

FORMER RESIDENT’S DEATH. — The death occurred suddenly on Monday at her home, Brose-Lea, Ash Grove, Werrington, near Stoke-on Trent, of Mrs. Emma Elizabeth Amy Smith, wife of Mr. John Smith and second daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Dixon, formerly of The Delph, High Street, Broseley. She had been in failing health for several weeks, but was sufficiently well to attend the funeral at Broseley of her youngest sister, Mrs. Ethel Edge, whose death occurred eleven days previously. She leaves a husband and an only child. The funeral took place on Thursday. The service was held at Caverswall Parish Church by the Rev. Evans, curate-in-charge of Werrington Church-with-Caverswall. The mourners included the widower and Mr. Edgar Smith (son), Solihull, Birmingham; Mr. P. A. Dixon and Mr. A. N. Dixon (brothers), Broseley. Messrs. R. E. Jones, D. Hurst, P. Bates and F. Carmel], Ash Grove.

DISTRICT COUNCIL

Wednesday, Ald. A. A. Exley (vice chairman) presiding.

The Town Clerk (Mr. F. W. Derry), reporting on finance, stated that the May precept of £204 had been paid into the general district account, which stood in credit to the sum of £125 8s. 9d., and, after cheques being drawn that day to the amount of, £64 5s. 4d., the account would still be in credit to the extent of £61 3s. 5d., as against a credit of £55 19s. 5d. at the corresponding period last year. He reported that the collectors had paid £87 7s. 11d. into the water account dining the past month, which account stood in debit to the amount of £31 5s. 7d., and, with cheques being drawn that day, including the contribution to the Harrington Joint Water Committee, the debit would he increased to about £117, as against a credit balance of £64 last year.

Mr. Fenn (collector) stated that he had collected £101 1s. of the current half-year’s water rate, of £42 6s, 7d. was not paid into the account before May 31, and the water account would thus be better off to that extent on the date of the meeting.

The sanitary inspector (Mr. C. Thomas) reported the district free from notifiable diseases. — A letter was received complaining of rubbish being deposited on land close to the Broseley Wood Mission hall premises, and the inspector was instructed to inquire into the matter and, if necessary, arrange for a warning notice to be fixed there.

The surveyor (Mr. F. Richards) gave particulars of his expenditure in labour, etc., for the past month amounting to £21 3s. 7d.

A complaint was received from ratepayers in the Quarry Road district that no ashes could be collected from their premises or coal delivered by vehicles to their houses           owing to the posts erected at each end of the footpath on the Quarry Bank.—The surveyor was instructed to report as to the advisability of removing one set of posts to a lower position down the bank in question.

The Water Engineer (Mr. A. O. Callear) gave particulars of the repairs, and extensions carried out in the district during the past month.— He was instructed to make arranged merits for the laying on of the water supply to the public convenience at  the end of Birch Row, now nearing completion.

The clerk reported that the Ministry had approved the tender for the erection of a house on a piece of land at the Holly Grove, Jackfield, arid he stated that he was now arranging for the contract to be signed and also for the loan to meet the cost.

The Clerk submitted a letter from the Chief Constable of the county, as supervisor to the county committee, in connection with the precautions to be taken in the event of air raids, asking for the names of the stations selected in the district. It was suggested at the meeting that the Broseley social club would be the most suitable building for the purpose, and it was decided to communicate with the secretary of the club on the matter, asking for permission to allow the council architect and surveyor to make an inspection of the premises.

JACKFIELD

WOMEN CONSERVATIVES. — A joint effort by the members of the Coalport and Jackfield branches of the Women’s Conservative and Unionist Association, was successfully organised in aid of the Lady Yale Memorial, when a concert was held at the Coffee Room, Coalport, on May 26. Mrs. Preece and Mrs. Hearn presided, supported by members of the joint committees. The artistes included the Jackfield “Cheerful Chirpers”—Mr. E. Fox (Dawley), Mr. P. Davies, Mrs. Phillipson, Mr. R. Duce, and Mr. Roy Harper, of Madeley; compere, Mr. F. Jeffrey, Madeley. Mrs. Bowen and Mrs. Davies, Coalport, were the winners of a special competition. Refreshments were provided by the Coalport and Jackfield branches, the members of the catering committee being Mrs. Bowen, Mrs. Adams, Mrs. Rogers and Mrs. Barber. Miss Smyth (women’s organiser), spoke of the subject of the concert, and thanked the artistes and the company preset for their support.

12th June 1937

JACKFIELD

LATE MR. E. PEAKE

The death occurred on June 1 of Mr. Ernest Peake, at his home, 86, Lloyds Head, at the age of 37, after a long and painful illness. He was a native of Weston, Shifnal, but had lived in this neighbourhood for many years. Up to the time of his illness he had been in the employ of the Broseley Gas Company for over 13 years. He was a member of Coalford Methodist Chapel, a Sunday school teacher, a member of the I.O.O.F. Friendly Society, “Lord Frederick” Lodge, Shifnal.

The funeral took place on Saturday at Broseley cemetery. The bearers were Messrs. A. and E. Pritchard, J. Cox, R. Colley, S. Jones, W. H. Poole, I. Cross and J. Dodd. A service was held in the cemetery chapel by the Rev. R. H. Osborne, Methodist minister, who spoke very highly of the good work Mr. Peake had done for the church. The family mourners included Alf, Harry, Joe and Arthur (brothers), Alice, Nellie and Edie (sisters), Ethel, Kath and Kitty (sisters-in-law), Jim. Noel, Syd, Harry, Will and George (brothers-in-law), Enoch (uncle) and Hugh (nephew).

On Sunday a memorial service was held at Coalford Methodist Chapel by the Rev. R. H. Osborne.

10th July 1937

JACKFIELD

A RUMMAGE SALE was held on Saturday in St. Mary’s Hall, in aid of the Parish Church Sunday School outing fund. The effort realised over £3, to which has to be added the proceeds of a competition for a portable wireless set. The stallholders and other helpers were the Misses Ethel Perkins and Audrey Ellis, Mr. and Mrs. G. Thomas, Mr. Roy Gregson, Mr. N. Hudson, Mr. C. Hughes (door steward) and Mr. Lawrence Hearn, who was also responsible for the arrangements.

BAND CONCERT. — The Jackfield Prize Silver Band gave a concert on Sunday evening at the Salthouse, under the direction of Bandmaster W. Ellis. A collection was taken for the Band’s fund.

BROSELEY

CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. —Sunday school anniversary services were held on Sunday. The preacher was Mr. E. Mills, Wolverhampton, who delivered sermons in the morning and evening and an address at a musical service in the afternoon. Anniversary hymns were sung by the choir and the children throughout the day, under the conductorship of Mr. Herbert Evans, formerly choirmaster of the Parish Church, who had also trained the singers, and Mrs. W. L. Williams was at the organ. The soloists were Miss E. Goodall (soprano, Broseley), and Mr. Herbert Evans (tenor). A continuation service- was held on Monday, after a public tea in the Schoolroom, which was served by the ladies’ committee. The pastor (Rev. C. E. Wright); presided at the service; and an address was given by Mr. R. N. Moore, Madeley. The singing of the previous day was repeated, a solo being given by Mr. Herbert Evans. The Collections throughout the services amounted to over £8, which, as well as other donation, will be devoted to Sunday school funds.

THE WEDDING took place at the Parish Church on Saturday, the officiating clergyman being the Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector of Broseley), of. Miss Doris Mary Jones, elder daughter of Mrs. M. and the late Mr. T. H. Jones, of Wesley House, Duke Street, Broseley, and Mr. Thomas Henry Tranter, elder son of Mrs. and the late Mr. Tranter, of Court Street, Madeley. The service was choral, and the choir led the hymns. Mr. Ronald Yorke (Madeley), tile Broseley Parish Church organist (cousin of the bridegroom), was at the organ, and played appropriate music. The bride, who was given away by her eldest brother, Mr. Francis Hy. Jones, was attired in white satin beaute with short train and embroidered veil (lent by her sister. Mrs. T. Hyde of Ellesmere Port), and carried a bouquet of red roses and were a gold bangle, a gift of the bridegroom. She was attended by her sister, Mrs. T. Hyde, as matron of honour, and her bridesmaid was Miss Amy Mitchell, of Southport, cousin of the bridegroom. Both wore dresses of mauve moiré taffeta and carried bouquets of mauve and pink sweet peas. Their headdresses were of mauve net and silver leaves, with shoes and mittens to tone. They also wore initial bracelets, the gifts of the bridegroom. Mr. James Tranter, of Madeley, the bridegroom’s brother, was best Man.       A reception was afterwards held, attended by upwards of 40 guests. Mr. and Mrs. Tranter left later in the day for Douglas, I.O.M., where the honeymoon is being spent. The bride’s going away dress was a bottle green suit with shoes, hat and bag to tone. Both are well known in the district, being in the employ of the Iron-Bridge Co-operative Stores, the bride as manageress of the confectionery department, and the bridegroom as manager of the grocery department. Among the numerous presents was a handsome occasional table from the staff of the Co- operative Society.

DISTBICT COUNCIL Wednesday, Ald. J. Nicklin presiding.

The town clerk (Mr. F. W. Derry), reporting on finance, stated that the June and July precepts had been paid into  the general account, which stood in credit to the sum of £469 11s. 9d., against which cheques being drawn that day would leave a credit of £326 19s. 9d., as against a credit balance of £331 5s. at the corresponding period last year. He stated that the collectors had paid a total sum of £131 7s. 8d. into the water account during the past month, which had reduced the dealt to £20 13s. 6d., and with one cheque only being drawn that day, the debit (balance would be £23 1s. 2d., as against a credit balance of £225 15s. 2d. at the same time last year.

Mr. A. G. Fenn (collector), reported that he had collected £130 6s. 10d. of the current half-year’s water rate leaving gross outstandings of £203 13s. 2d.

The sanitary inspector (Mr. C. Thomas), reported the district free from notifiable diseases.

The surveyor (Mr. F. Richards), reported that the repairs to the road from the Free Bridge to the hairpin bend, Jackfield, at the cost of over £700, were now practically completed, and he was complimented by the members on the excellent job which had been carried out.—Replying to Mr. Shorting, the surveyor said the repairs to the Cobwell Road —Bridge Road, were now about to be done.

The question of air raids precautionary measures was further discussed, and Mr. Collins reported on inspection, together with Mr. T. W. Howells, of the Social Club premises, saying they would make an excellent place for a first-aid post, while a disused malthouse at Delphside could be used as storage for gas masks, etc. If permission could be obtained from the Social Club, these premises, together with the hospital, would cover their requirements. He said that the gas instruction would be carried out through the police authorities and the British Legion branch, and he also referred to other arrangements which had been made. Mr Collins and the other members of the Air Raids Precautions Committee, were thanked for their work and report, and the clerk was instructed to report accordingly to the county authority.

Mr. W. L. Davis raised the question of a public playing field for the district, and suggested that, it being Coronation year, it would be an ideal opportunity to do something for Broseley while a grant for these purposes was obtainable. After discussion, it was decided to write the trustees of the Bathurst Playing Fields, asking them if they could see their way clear to hand over the field to the public authority during Coronation year, when a grant could be obtained.

17th July 1937

JACKFIELD

THE SUNDAY SCHOOL annual summer outing took place on Saturday, when 8O scholars and teachers, with several parents and friends, making a party of about 140, in the charge of the Rector (the Rev. F. J. B. Mason), paid a visit to Llandudno. The journey was made via Llangollen and Corwen.          The Rector presided at tea, and the return journey was made via Rhyl, Chester and Prees Heath.          The outing was organised by the St. Mary’s Hall Entertainments Committee and the arrangements were carried out by Mr. Lawrence Hearn, assisted by Mr. Isaac Cross.

BROSELEY

THE MOTHERS’ UNION summer outing took place on Tuesday, and the resort chosen this year was Llandudno The party, numbering 57 members, was in the charge of Mrs. G.  Broadhurst, the enrolling member, who was responsible for the arrangements. The route taken was via Llangollen and the Horse Shoe Pass. At tea, the party was joined by the Rector of Broseley (the Rev. S. Jackson), who presided. The return journey was via Mold, Wrexham and Ellesmere.

THE WEDDING took place on Saturday at the Methodist Church, the Rev. R. H. Osborne officiating, between Miss Winifred Ledger, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alan F Ledger, Pulborough, Sussex, formerly residents of Broseley and Welling ion, and Mr. John Stephen Jones second son of Mr. and the late Mrs Thomas Jones, Dawley, also formerly residents of Broseley. The bride who was given away by her father wore a pink georgette dress, with hat and shoes to tone, and long white gloves. She carried a show bouquet of pink and white carnations and fern. Her bridesmaid her cousin, Miss Enid Davis, Benthall Cottage, who was dressed in pale green floral crepe-dc-Chine, will a Leghorn hat, and carried a showier bouquet of sweet peas. She wore a silver bangle, the gift of the bridegroom, Mr. Treherne, Rhyl, groomsman. The service was choral and the organist was Mrs. Harris.  A reception was held in the Methodist schoolroom, and later the happy couple left for Cheltenham the bride wearing a green tweed costume, with a hat and shoes to match. They on their return, take up residence at Madeley.

LATE MRS. H. COLLIER. — The death occurred on Sunday, at the age of 79, after a few weeks’ illness, of Mrs. Rebecca Collier, widow of Mr. Herbert Collier, of Manchester district, a former railway official, at her residence in Queen Street. Mrs. Collier was a native of Broseley, and the younger daughter of the late Mr. George Davis, brick and tile manufacturer, Broseley. Since returning to Broseley she had been a member of the local branch of the Mothers’ Union. Mrs. Collier leaves no family, two sons and a daughter having predeceased her. One son died last year, and the other was killed in the Great War. The funeral took place on Wednesday. A service was held in the Parish Church by the rector (Rev. C. S. Jackson). The family mourners included:— Mrs. G. Collier (daughter-in-law), and Mr. E. Collier (grandson), St. Albans; Mr. and Mrs. T. H. Francis (Willey), Mr. P. L. Francis. Mr. and Mrs. Walter E. Davis, and Miss M. Davis (nephews and nieces). Others present were:— Mr. and Mrs. C. Davis, Mrs H. Watkins, Mr. and Mrs. Stoner, Mr. W. Andrews, Mr. J. Hill, Mr. and Mrs. Jos. Jones, and many members of the Mothers’ Union, including Mrs. J. G. Broadhurst (enrolling member).

METHODIST GARDEN PARTY

In connection with the Methodist Church a successful garden party and gift day were held on Wednesday in the grounds of Field House and Hurstlea by kind permission of Mrs. F. C. Howells and Mr. and Mrs. T. Wilfred Howells.

The Rev. R. H. Osborne (Methodist minister) presided at the opening, ceremony, which was performed by Lady Forester, who was supported by Mrs. J. G. Boon and Mrs F. Howell’s. A vote of thanks was accorded Lady Forester, Mrs F. C. Howells and Mr. and Mrs. T. W. Howells on the preposition of Mr. A. O. Jones (secretary), and Mr. C. B. Jones, in seconding, made appreciative reference to the great interest the Forester family for generations had taken in their church. At the close of the ceremony little Miss Doreen Pace presented a bouquet to Lady Forester, and Mrs. F. C. Howells also received one from little Miss Vera Colley.

Afternoon teas were served on the lawn of Field House by Mesdames J. Casey, A. Harris and C. Thomas, assisted by the members of the ladies’ committee, and the refreshment buffet was in the charge of Meadames R. E. Gwynne, A. O. Jones, N. Ball, Garnett Evens and Miss Edna Williams. Ices were served by Miss Annie Evans and Miss N. Sankey, and the sweets stall was in the charge of Mrs. J. A. Hartshorne and Mrs. Jas Davies.

At 6 p.m_ the presentation of gifts by member scholars and friends was conducted by the Rev. R. H. Osborne, and the amount received was £54 0s 10d.

In the evening the Jackfield Prize Silver Band played selections under the conductorship of Deputy Band master Cecil Hudson, and they also played for dancing on the lawn of Field House from 8 to 10-30 p.m, Mr. Percy Jones being M.C. There were numerous attractions, entertainments and competitions.

In a cake competition organised by Mrs. A. O. Jones and Mrs. A. Harris, the winners            were:— Mrs. W. T. Street,, 2 Mrs Newman (Wellignton), 3. Miss Elsie Halley; consolation were awarded to Miss Marjorie James (Hurstlea), Mrs. H. Owen (Benthall), and Mrs. H. Foster (Benthall). A balloon race was conducted by Mr Earnest Humphries, for which a prize will be given for the longest flight.

At intervals there were displays of folk dancing, under the direction of Miss Enid Davis, for which Mrs F. Davis (Benthall) played the pianoforte accompaniments.

The Methodist girls’ choir gave selections of popular songs, under the conductorship of Mr. A. O. Jones, with Miss Williams at the piano.

The (H) Avenue Art Gallery (consisting of art representations in burlesque), in the charge of Mr. J. Sankey, proved an amusing attraction.

The games included:— Houp-la, in the charge of Messrs A. O. Jones and Arthur Evans; ringing the pegs Messrs. C Thomas and Colin Jones; aerial bagatelle; Messrs S. Colley and S. Bryan; off with his top hat, Messrs N Ball. H Barnsley and T. Everall; darts, Messrs R E Gywnne and Stanley Williams; wobbly wheelbarrow, Messrs. H Ball and J Casey; table tennis, Mr L Morris; magic fish pond and flower pot game, Mr Frank Davis; gofstacle (miniature golf), Mr Ernest Humphries; skittles Messrs. G Gittings and B Bradley.

The proceeds of the day were in aid of new heating apparatus, etc., and amounted to a grand total of £84 5s.

The secretarial duties were carried out by Mr A. O. Jones.

24th July 1937

BROSELEY

WORKERS’ EDUCATIONAL ASSOCIATION.—At the invitation of the former chairman, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, of the Broseley branch, a representative and interesting gathering spent a pleasant social evening at the Rectory on Monday, when a brief survey of the past activities and the future prospects of the movement formed an important feature, as also a discussion on “Psychology”, which is the subject for study during the forthcoming session. At the conclusion a vote of thanks was accorded the Rector for his hospitality and to Mrs. R. Nicklin, Mrs. Ogilvie and Mrs H. Seabury for their assistance with the refreshments.— In responding, Mr. Jackson expressed the hope that the class (which had been in existence for 12 years) would long continue.

LATE MRS. R. COLLIER.—During the morning service at the parish Church, the rector (Rev. C. S. Jackson) made appropriate reference to the loss the Church had sustained by the death of Mrs. Collier,  and the bell-ringers paid tribute with a half-muffled peal on the bells.

A WHIST DRIVE, organised by Mrs. P. Archer, assisted by Mesdames E. Molineux and G. Roe, in aid of the Iron-Bridge and District Child ‘Welfare Mothers’ Outing Fund was held in the Town Hall on July 16. There were six tables occupied, and Mr. Herbert Evans carried out the duties of M.C. The prize-winners were:—Gent’s: Mrs. J. Casey, Mrs. A. Ogilvie, Mrs. Bagley (each playing as gent.); consolation, Mrs. S. Roberts. Ladies: Mrs. H Seabury, Mrs. Wright H. M. Tonks; consolation Mrs. Jack. Mr. P. Archer gave assistance as door-steward.

BOY”S SCHOOL CAMP.— The annual summer camp was held from July 9-16, at Pwllheli. The party consisted of 38 boys, in the charge of the headmaster (Mr. A. Wilkinson), with assistant (Mr. T. Brookes), and the journey was made by rail. Mr. Walter Pountney accompanied the party as camp cook. A certain portion of each day was devoted lessons, chiefly connected with the local work and the geography the district, also physical training, while plenty of time was spent           in bathing and other amassments. During the period visits were made to various places of interest which included the Penrhos Aerodrome, near Caernarvon where they had the opportunity of seeing the King and Queen. They were also favoured with permission to look over a tugboat lying Pwllheli Harbour, used for laying bombing targets and they also inspected a diver’s equipment.

COALPORT ROAD TRAGEDY
CYCLIST FATALLY INJURED

THE Borough of Wenlock Coroner, Mr. F. W. Derry, opened an inquest at the Lady Forester Hospital, Broseley, on Monday, on the body of George Bright, aged 42 years, tileworker’s charge-hand, of 201, Ferry Road, Jackfield, who died at the Hospital at 2-30 am. on Sunday as the result of injuries received in a collision on July 16 between his pedal cycle and a motor-car driven by Cyril Duncan Watson Bartlam, of South View, Iron-Bridge.

The accident happened at the junction of Dabley Lane and Coalport Road, near Thorpe House, Coalport.

Deceased was riding from the direction of Blest’s Hill, Madeley, and Bartlam was proceeding from Coalport to Madeley. The cyclist was rendered unconscious and conveyed by ambulance to the hospital.

After evidence of identification had been given by deceased’s brother, Francis Bright, of Sinclair Grove, Ketley, who stated that his brother never regained consciousness after the accident, the inquest was adjourned to a date not yet fixed.

Deceased leaved a widow and four children.

The Coroner, Inspector Machin (Iron-Bridge), and Mr. Archibald Watson Bartlam, on behalf of himself and his son, expressed sympathy with the widow and family.

The Funeral

The funeral took place on Wednesday, when a service was held in the Parish Church, conducted by the rector (Rev. F. J. R. Mason). Mrs. Mason was at the organ.

Deceased was well known in the district, and had been in the employ of Messrs. Maw and Co., Ltd., Jackfield, for many years, and at the time of his death held the position of shift charge hand. He was a member of the I.O. Oddfellows, “Rose of Sharon” Lodge, Broseley, and a member of the R.A.Q.B., “Lord Forester” Lodge, Madeley.

The bearers were six neighbours and six workmates:— Messrs. G. Morris, C. Leach, W. Arnold, W. Storey, G. Harrington and A Pritchard, and Messrs. W. Taylor, J. Beaman, A. Haynes, E. Sykes. J. Perkins and J. Smallman.

The family mourners included the widow, Willie (daughter), Teddy (son), Mrs. E. Bright, Benthall (mother), Mr. William Bright (Mobberley), Mr. John Bright, (Trysull), and Mr. Frank Bright, Ketley (brothers), Miss Annie Bright (sister), Mrs. John Bright (Trysull), Mrs H. Jones (Crayford, Kent),  Mrs. W. Waring (Wilmslow), and Miss    B. Bayliss, Wolverhampton (sister-in-law), Mrs. G. Forster, Market Drayton (aunt), Mr. and Mrs. W. Haynes (Benthall), Mr. Edward Haynes (Much Wenlock), Mrs. A. Cooper (Broseley Wood), Mr. and Mrs. J. Kitson (Much Wenlock), and Miss B. Hinsley (cousins).

Messrs. Maw and Co. Ltd., were represented by Mr. W. Price (works manager). Members of the Odd fellows Society and the R.A.O.B. attended, also a large number of neighbours, friends and deceased’s workmates.

The interment was in the Broseley Cemetery, and the funeral orations of both of deceased’s societies were read at the graveside.

Among the numerous wreaths sent were tributes from the directors or Messrs. Maw and Co. Ltd., also the workpeople, and his ‘‘ shift” mates, mid the members of the R.A.O.B., “Lord Forester” Lodge, Madeley.

7th August 1937

BROSELEY

BAND CONCERT — On Sunday evening Jackfield Prize Silver Band gave a concert on the lawn in the beautiful garden of Whitehall, lent by Dr. and Mrs. Boon. The concert was attended by a large number of people, which included many visitors to the town for the holiday. The band was under the conductorship of Bandmaster W. Ellis.

THE MARRIAGE took place on Saturday at the Parish Church, the Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector) officiating, of Miss Olive Instone Lloyd, younger daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Henry Lloyd, of Birch Row, Broseley, and Mr. Walter Britton, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. James Britton of Toll Gate House, Cemetery Road, Broseley. The bride, who was given away by her father, was dressed in crepe suede, with shoes to tone, and wore a picture, and carried a bouquet of white lilies. Her bridesmaid was Miss Harriet Olive Instone, The Woodlands Farm, Broseley, cousin of the bride, who was similarly attired, and carried a bouquet of red roses. Mr. Abraham Britton, brother of the bridegroom, was best man.        A reception was held afterwards at the home of the bride’s parents, and later Mr. and Mrs. Britton left for their new home at Madeley.  Amongst the numerous presents was a handsome clock, with Westminster chimes, the gift of the staff of Messrs. Craven, Dunnill and Co., Ltd., Jackfield, where the bridegroom has been employed for many years.

DISTRICT COUNCIL

Wednesday, Ald. Nicklin presiding.

Mr. D. Ferguson, town clerk’s assistant, reporting on finance, stated that the general district account was in credit to the amount of £230 19s. 11d., which after cheques being drawn that day for the sum of £47 11s. 8d. would leave a credit balance of £183 8s. 3d., against a credit of £127 5s. last year. He reported that the collectors had paid £59 4s. 11d. into the water account during the past month, which had brought the account into credit to the sum of £38 11s. 5d., and after a cheque being drawn, the credit balance would be £35 1s. 5d., as against a credit balance of £225 15s. 1d. last year.

The collector, Mr. A. G. Fenn, reported that he had collected £217 19s. 10d. of the current half-year’s water rate, and the outstanding amount was £125 0s. 2d.

Mr. C. Thomas, sanitary inspector reported the district free from notifiable diseases.

The surveyor, Mr F. Richards, reported that the road in Broseley Wood to the Woodlands had been repaired and that the Jackfield end of the Dark Lane was now being repaired. Afterwards he would continue with the repairs to Cobwell Road.—Ald. Exley called attention to the bad state of the footpath in the Red Church fields and the Birch Meadow, and…

BENTHALL (Broseley)

LATE MR. W. JONES.—The death occurred on July 29 of Mr. William Jones, at the age of 67, at his home, 62, Bridge Road, after a few days’ illness. He was well known in the district and had been in the employ of R. T. Smith and Co., cartage contractors, and the G.W. Railway Co. as shunter and carter for 46 years up to the time of his retirement about seven years ago. He was an old member of the I.O. Oddfellows, “Rose of Sharon” Lodge, Broseley. The funeral took place on Tuesday at the Parish Church, and the service, in the absence of the vicar (Rev. C. S. Jackson), was conducted by the Rev. C. L. Tiarks (Chaplain, R. Navy). The bearers were from the staff and former workmates of Iron-Bridge Station, G.W.Rly.—Messrs. W. J. Ritchings, J. Clapton, W. C. and W. Dickin, G. Bill, jun., and Norman Ball. The family mourners included Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Hudson (Coalbrookdale) and Miss Fanny Jones. Birmingham (son-in-law and daughters), Mr. Edward Jones, Coalbrookdale (brother), Miss Maud Boden, Benthall and Mrs. J. Jones, Madeley (sisters-in-law), Mr. Alfred Boden, Coalbrookdale, and Mr. R. Lloyd (brothers-in-law), Mr. A. Batchelor (Birmingham), Messrs. Cecil, Harry, Norman and Walter Hudson. Among friends and neighbours present were Messrs. F. Greenhalgh, John Green, H. Boden, J. Carter. T. Minton. W. and J. Cross, G. Overend and W. Perks, members of the Friendly Society, and Mr. F. Minton, who read the Oddfellows’ oration at the graveside. Mr. Jones had been a widower for eight years, and is survived by two daughters. Among the wreaths was a tribute from the staff and workmen at Iron-Bridge Station, and one from “his friends at the New Inn”.

14th August 1937

BROSELEY

THE MARRIAGE took place on Saturday, at the Parish Church, the Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector), officiating, of Mr. William Archibald Anthony, second son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Anthony, Clark’s Yard, Broseley, and Miss Mary Oliver, second daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Oliver. Bridle Road, Madeley. The bride, who was given away by her brother-in-law, Mr. George Richards, Madeley, wore a Royal blue silk dress (made by Mrs. Colin Dyas, of Posenhall Farm, her mistress), with a hat to match, and carried a bouquet of pink carnations and fern (the gift of Mr. and Mrs. C. Dyas). She was attended by the Misses Betty and Marjorie Anthony (sisters of the bridegroom), and Miss Dora Oliver, Madeley (younger sister of the bride), who wore dresses of rose pink silk, with halo hats to match, and brown suede shoes, and carried bouquets of sweet peas, the gifts of the bridegroom. The little attendant was Miss Phyllis Carter, Broseley, a niece of the bridegroom, in an ankle-length dress of pea green, with white kid shoes, carrying a basket of rose petals. The groomsman was Mr. Walter Britton, Poole’s Yard, Broseley. A reception was held at the home of the bridegroom’s parents, and later Mr. and Mrs. Anthony left for their new home at Cape Street, Broseley.

BROSELEY

FELLOWSHIP CAMP.—The tenth annual camp was held during Bank Holiday week at Dysserth, near Rhyl The party travelled in the charge of  Mr. T. Goodall, and on the Sunday, the camp was joined by the rector of Broseley (Rev. C. S. Jackson), Mr. Fred Perkins, (headmaster of Arley Schools, Worcs.), and Mr. G. O. Jones, (assistant master of Broseley C. of E. Schools), while several members cycled there on the Saturday night to join the camp for the week-end. Glorious weather prevailed, and a most enjoyable week was spent in games, bathing and visits to various, places of interest. Several Broseley residents visited the camp during the week, and were entertained to tea. This year, after the morning service, a series of lectures on “What religion means to me,” were given by the rector, and Messrs. F. Perkins, Hinsley Dodd, G. O. Jones and Ernest Harris, members of the party, and interesting discussion followed. On the Sunday the camp attended Divine service at Dysserth C. of E. Church. The campers returned on Saturday, and attended their annual camp service at Broseley Parish Church on Sunday.

LATE MRS. E. DAVIS

One of the oldest residents of the town passed peacefully away on Sunday after a short illness, m the person of Mrs. Martha Davis, at the age of 85, at her residence in Bridgnorth Road. She was the widow of Mr. Edwin Davis, ironmonger, grocer and provision merchant, who for many years carried on one of the principal business establishments in the town. Mrs. Davis was a native’s of Broseley, and until quite recently took a keen interest in the social welfare of the town.  She was a staunch worshipper at the Parish Church and was the oldest member of the local branch of the Mothers’ Union. She leaves one son and four daughters. Her husband died nine years ago.

The funeral took place on Tuesday at the Parish Church, and the service, which was choral, was conducted by the Rev. C. S. Jackson (Rector). A large congregation attended, and included about 30 members of the Mothers’ Union, with Mrs. J. G. Broadhurst, (enrolling member). The body was conveyed on the Parish Church bier, the attendants being Messrs. Jas. Jones, T. Meredith, John Humphries, T. Everall, J. Powell and H. Halley. At the church gates the cortege was met by the surplaced choir, with Mr. E. C. S. White (diocesan lay reader) carrying the cross. The organist was Mr. Ronald A. Yorke. The hymns selected by the family, “O Strength and Stay,’’ and “Holy Father, cheer our way” were sung, the organ accompaniments of the former being played by Mrs. Davis’s only son. Mr. Waiter E. Davis (late choirmaster). The cortege left the church preceded by the choir singing the Nunc Di minis en route for the cemetery, where the interment took place in the grave of her husband.

The family mourners included Mr. Walter E. Davis (son), Miss M. Davis, Mrs. Ernest Walker, Badger Farm, Miss Pattie Davis and Mrs Talbot Thomas, Risca, S. Wales (daughters), Mrs. Walter Davis (daughter-in-law), Mr. Ernest Walker and Mr. Talbot Thomas, (sons-in-law), Miss Mary Walker, Mr. Graham Walker and Mr. Roger Thomas (grandchildren). Mr. F. H. Bangham, Doseley, Mr. A. O. Jones, Benthall, Mr. W. E. Price, Jackfield, Mr. and Mrs. W. G. Francis, East Dulwich, London, Mr. and Mrs. T. H. Francis, Willey, Mr. Edwin Francis and Mr. F. S. Francis (nephews and nieces), Mr. Charles Davis, Mr. Cyril Walker (Morville), Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Shaw (Morville), Mr. and Mrs. B. A. Edmonds, Shrewsbury, and Miss Mitchell, Shrewsbury.

Among others present were Mrs. R. A. Instone, Mrs. E. R. Instone, Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Instone, Mrs. R. Smitheman, Mrs. Edith Jones, Ald. and Mrs. J. Nicklin, Mr. C. R. Jones, Messrs. T. Broadhurst, N. Ball, G. Gittings J. B. Nicklin, W. Andrews. P. W. Parr, Mr. Cowan, Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Street, the Misses Potts. Mrs. D. L.  Prestage, Mrs. E. C. S White, Miss Horton, Mrs. Stoner, Mrs. Oliver and Mrs. A. Ogilvie.

Wreaths included a tribute from the members of the Mothers’ Union. Later in the evening the Parish Church ringers paid tribute with a half-muffled peal on the bells.

GARDEN PARTY

A garden party, in aid of the funds of the Broseley Cricket Club, organised by the rector, (Rev. C. S. Jackson), was held on Wednesday, in the grounds and gardens of Whitehall, (by kind, permission of Dr. and Mrs. Boon), and at the Rectory.

The opening ceremony was performed by Mrs. Boon, who was supported by Dr. Boon. The rector, in introducing Mrs. Boon, spoke of the great interest both she and the doctor had taken in the Broseley Cricket Club for a great many years.

Mr. T. Wilfred Howells proposed a vote of thanks to Mrs. Boon, and also to Dr. Boon and the rector for their kindness in lending the grounds and gardens for the occasion. The Jackfield Prize Silver Band was in attendance, and played selections during the afternoon and evening, and also for dancing, under the conductorship of Deputy Bandmaster C. Hudson.

Teas were served on the lawn in the Whitehall Garden, by the ladies catering committee under the supervision of Mrs T W. Street, who also ran the refreshment buffet. There  were various games, competitions and amusements, which were in the charge of other ladies, including:—Hoop-la, Mrs. E. Molineux, Mrs. W. W Ward and Mrs. W. R. Pountney; skittles, Mrs. P. Archer and Mrs. A. Jones (Church Street); ladder golf, Mrs. T. Lloyd and Mrs. H. Bryce; ice-cream stall, Mrs. H. Watkins (Barratt’s Hill), and Mrs, D. Cope.

Short whist drives were held in the rooms at the Rectory, organised by Mesdames A. Ogilvie, W. Darlington and M. Jones (Wesley House), for which Mr. Matt. Davis was M.C.

There was a large company at the dance, which was held on the Rectory lawn, which was flood-lit, kindly installed by Mr. Eric Lloyd. Mr. George Roberts was M.C.

The gate steward was Mr. T. Goodall, assisted by playing members of the club, and the hon. secretary was Mr. J. B. Dixon.

The primary object of the effort was to obtain funds for the repainting of the Cricket Club pavilion and repairs to mowers, or, if possible, a new machine. The receipts for the day amounted to over £20.

21st August 1937

KING EDWARD VII. MEMORIAL
SANATORIUM, SHIRLETT,
near BROSELEY.

TENDERS are invited for the Supply of Goods as under, delivered to the Sanatorium for the six months ending 31st March, 1938;—

PREVISIONS, BREAD, MEAT, FISH, HOUSEHOLD REQUISITES.

Forms of tender may be obtained on application to the Secretaries, to whom they should be returned on or before 4th September, 1937, in a sealed envelope marked “Tender.”

ASBURY, RIDDELL & CO.,

Secretaries,

7, The Square, Shrewsbury.

13th August, 1937.

BROSELEY

BRITISH LEGION PARADE

The annual parade of the local branch of the British Legion took place on Sunday. The branch formed up at the Rectory in the charge of Mr. Jas. Clapton (hon. secretary) supported by Capt. E. D. Collins and Mr. T. W. Howells (vice-presidents). The service was conducted by the chaplain, Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector), who also preached an eloquent sermon. The choir sang an anthem, and special hymns were sung, with Mr. Ronald A. Yorke (organist and choirmaster) at the organ.

After the service a concert was given by the Jackfield prize silver band in the grounds of The Lawns, by permission of Mr. E. H. H. Shorting, under the conductorship of Bandmaster W. Ellis. A euphonium solo was given by Bandsman Percy Jones.

A collection was taken for the branch funds, and amounted to £72, Mr. Albert Jones was gate steward, and the arrangements were carried out by Mr. Jas. Clapton.

JACKFIELD

THE MARRIAGE took place on Saturday at St. Mary’s Parish Church of Miss Mary Harper, second daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Harper, The Werps, Jackfield, and Mr. John Horton, jun., son, of Mr. and Mrs. John Horton, Hall Green, Birmingham. In the absence of the rector of Jackfield, the Rev. W. G. Beale, rector of Willey officiated. The bride, who was given away by her father, wore a dress of silvered flowered satin, with an orange blossom headdress, a veil and silver shoes. She carried a bouquet of dark red roses. She was attended by her two sisters. Mrs. George Adams, as matron of honour, and Miss Louie Harper as bridesmaid, dressed in cream silk of floral design and pink taffeta, with a pink picture hat and a bouquet of sweet peas and pink net with rose-buds and forget-me-nots. The best man was Mr. Frank Horton, brother of the bridegroom. The honeymoon is being spent at Llandudno, the bride wearing for going away a grey costume with a hat to match. After wards Mr. and Mrs. Horton will live at Didsbury, Manchester.

28th August 1937

BROSELEY

SOCIAL CLUB FLOWER AND VEGETABLE SHOW

The annual show was held at the Social Club on Saturday and Sunday, and was well attended. The entries, as usual, were confined to those of members only, and the exhibits were staged in the large upper room of the club. The quality of the exhibits was well up to standard, and the competition was keen throughout. The judges were Mr. E. H. H. Shorting, The Lawns, Broseley, Mr. George Potts, The Grange; and Mr. George Thomas, head gardener at Benthall Hall.

In the competition for the Col. Baldwin-Webb silver cup, to be held by the winner for twelve months, P.C. Ogilvie (Broseley) was successful, having gained 24 points. The runner-up was Mr. Chas. Shaw, who was awarded 17 points. The holder of the cup for the past, 12 months, Mr. W. Roberts, Chapel Terrace, gained 15 points.

The show was opened by Dr. J. G. Boon, of Whitehall, chairman of the club. The arrangements were carried out by the club sports committee and Mr. R. B. Weeks, the club secretary,

The Jackfield Prize Silver Band attended on Sunday evening, and gave a concert on the lawn in the grounds of the club, under the conductorship of Bandmaster W. Ellis. In a competition for an iced cake Mrs. James Jones (Council Houses) was successful.

The presentation of the cup and the prizes took place on Monday evening at the Club, and P.C. Ogilvie decided to send his prize money to the Shirlett Sanatorium for the purchase of tobacco and cigarettes for the patients there.

LATE MISS L. P.DIXON

The death occurred on Sunday at G, Church View, of Miss Louisa P. Nevett Dixon, after a short illness. She formerly carried, on the old established business of newsagent and stationer in High Street. Miss Dixon was the third daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Dixon, Broseley.

She had been in failing health for some years, and since her retirement front business made her home with her brother-in-law and sister, Mr. and the late Mrs. W. Edge, at whose residence she passed away. During her lifetime she took a keen interest in the social welfare of the town and for many years was closely connected with the S.J.A.B., the and the Broseley Amateur Dramatic Society,

The funeral took place on Wednesday at the Parish Church, and the service was conducted by the rector (Rev. C. S. Jackson), assisted by Mr. E. C. S. White (diocesan lay reader). Some of the choristers were present and Mr. Walter E. Davis was at the organ. The bearers, friends of the family, were Messrs. W. E. Davis. W. T. Instone, W. Oakley, P. E. Hartshorne, L. Harris and W. Ball. The family mourners were Mr. Percy A. Dixon and Mr. Arthur N. Dixon (brothers), Mr. J. Smith, Ashall, Stoke-on-Trent, and Mr. W. Edge brothers-in-law), Messrs. Leslie and John Dixon and Edgar N. Smith, Solihull, Birmingham (nephews). Among the friends present were Ald. J. Nicklin, Mr C. R. Jones (Benthall), the Misses Potts (The Deanery). Mrs. D. L. Prestage, Mrs. B. A. Instone, Mrs. B. Smitheman, Mrs. Edith Jones, Mrs. J. G. Broadhurst, the Misses L. and L. Burnett, Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Stoner, Mrs. Oliver, Miss Thomas (Dunge Farm), Messrs. W. T. Street, C F. Instone, T. H. Francis (Willey), P. C. Ogilvie, Mrs. W. W. Ward and Mrs W. B. Pountney. The interment was in the family vault in the churchyard.

4th September 1937

BROSELEY

DISTRICT COUNCIL

Wednesday, Ald. J. Nicklin -presiding.

The sanitary inspector (Mr. C. Thomas) handed over to the chairman the keys of the new public convenience, which, he stated, was now finished. The chairman said that the job had been carried out in a most satisfactory manner and that the building was a credit to the Council, which remarks were endorsed by other members present.—It was decided to have a lamp fixed on a bracket to light the approach froth the main street to the building, also a prominent direction indicator fixed on the same bracket.—The inspector, was complimented on the manner in which the work had been carried out. As this had involved extra work upon him in getting out the plan and the supervision of the work, he was granted an honorarium of £10.

The tender of Mr. B. Wood for the supply and erection of 35 yards of chestnut fencing and oak posts around the public convenience, for the sum of £10 15s, was accepted.

Mr. Parr reported that some repairs were needed to the Memorial Bridge, Jackfield.— The surveyor was instructed to make an inspection and report to the next meeting when the matter will be referred to the Borough Council for attention.

Mr. W. E. Davis called attention to a drain which had been stopped at the Isolation Hospital.— The inspector stated that it had now been cleared, and suggested that a manhole be fixed there to avoid a recurrence of the trouble. He was instructed to have this carried out.

The clerk read a letter from the County Council in reply to an application to them to make an order prohibiting vehicles of over eight tons laden weight travelling over the Free Bridge across the River Severn at Jackfield. This stated that, in consequence of the County Council’s decision not to proceed with the proposed scheme of erecting a new bridge over the Severn at Iron-Bridge for a period of three years owing to the increased cost, they were prepared to make an order restricting vehicles of over eight tons gross laden weight or an axle load of five tons passing over the Free Bridge and agreeing to maintain the repairs to the bridge and also make a grant of 75 per cent. towards the cost of the repairs to two lengths of the approach roads, one from Iron-Bridge to a length of 787 yards and the one from the Hair Pin bend to the Free Bridge, during the same period. The order would come into force after receiving the sanction of the Ministry of Transport.

BROSELEY SHOW REVIVED

ARTS AND CRAFT SECTION PROVES POPULAR

FINE WOODWORK EXHIBITS

AT a public meeting held early this year to consider the Coronation celebrations for Broseley a suggestion was made that it would be fitting to mark the Coronation year by reviving the old Broseley Flower Show, which before the War had such a long run of success and did much in creating an interest throughout the district in horticulture.

At that meeting Mr. W. Andrews was elected convenor,, later a meeting was held at which a strong executive committee was formed with Mr. E. H. H. Shorting as chairman, Mr. W. Andrews vice-chairman, Mr. J. B. Nicklin (Lloyds Bank) hon. treasurer, Mr. D. Mason assistant treasurer, and Mr. T. Goodall and W. Bull joint secretaries. The Rt. Hon. Lord Forester was elected president, and, sponsored by the Coronation Executive Committee, with the support of the townspeople, the effort seemed assured of success.

This proved to be so when the show was held on August 27 and Saturday in the C. of E. Schools, Broseley, and attended by over 1,000 people.

In addition to horticultural classes there was added an arts and crafts section, which was a great attraction, the officials for which were Mrs. J. Nicklin (chairman), Mrs. F. J. Brookes (hon. secretary) and Mrs. C. Thomas (assistant secretary).

There were over 700 entries in the two sections, and to stage these all the rooms in the boys’, girls’ and infants departments were needed. The decorations were carried out m red, white and blue colours by Mr. J. B. Dixon.

The judges were as follows:— Horticultural section: open classes, Mr. G. Thomas (gardener at Benthall Hall) and Mr. George Potts (The Grange, Broseley); cottagers’ classes, Mr. N. V. Phillips (head gardener at Leighton Hall), and Mr. A. H. Whyte, Shrewsbury (County Council horticultural adviser); arts and crafts section: cooking, Mrs. E. S. Owen (Madeley); produce, Mrs. E. S. Owen, Mrs. England and Mrs. Davies; needlework, Miss Hudson (Shrewsbury); and Miss Ethelston (Clungunford); woodwork, Mr. W. E. Smith (Madeley Wood). The judges commented on the high standard of quality of the exhibits throughout.

There were several exhibits not for competition, outstanding among which was a display of begonias admirably staged by Mrs. F. C. Howells, Field House, Broseley.

Opening Ceremony

There was a large and representative gathering at the opening, at which Mr. E. H. H. Shorting presided and introduced Lady Forester, who performed the opening ceremony. Her ladyship was presented with a bouquet by little Miss Joan Smith, Fox Lane House, Broseley.

On both days the Jackfield Prize Silver Band, under the conductorship of Bandmaster W. Ellis and Deputy Bandmaster C. Hudson, played selections of music, and also for dancing each evening in the schoolyard, for which Mr. H. Watkins, Barratts Hill, was M.C.

In the arts and crafts section, the competition was very keen in several of the classes. This section also included an exhibition of work not for competition, organised by Mrs. W. Andrews, which included specimens of woodcarving, wool rugs, needlework and water colour drawings.

Special mention must be made of exhibits in the woodwork section of a model of the Royal coach in fretwork, entered by W. Gittings, a model of Broseley Parish Church, by Derek Pountney, and models of the Tower Bridge and Forth Bridge, by Donald Preston. There was also an interesting display of honey by Mr. R. H. Thomas, Fish House, Broseley. The presentation of prizes took place on Monday at the Methodist Church schoolroom. Mr. E. H. H. Shorting presided, supported by Mr. B. S. Owen (Madeley), Ald. J. Nicklin and the officials of the show. Mrs. E. S. Owen presented the prizes, numbering 238, and the meeting concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.

The great success of the show has been re-established, and it is hoped to hold it in future years.

JACKFIELD

THE FUNERAL, took place on Wednesday of Mrs. Annie Stephan, widow of Mr. W. Stephan, 58. Lloyd Head, whose death occurred at Berrington Hospital on Saturday after a short illness, at the age of 67. A service was held in Coalford Methodist Church by the Rev. R. H. Osborne, with Miss A. Owen at the organ. The interment took place at Broseley cemetery, the Rev. R. H. Osborne conducting the graveside service. The bearers were neighbours and members of Coalford Methodist Church—Messrs. E. Wilde, J. Evans, R. Colley, W. Dickens, J. Pumford, B. Headley, J. Dodd and G. Stewart. Among the mourners were Mr. and Mrs. T. Hurdley (brother and sister-in-law); Mr. and Mrs. T. Ball (brother-in-law and sister); Mr. and Mrs. T. Doughty (brother-in-law and sister); Messrs. A. Pritchard and A. Miles (sons-in-law); Messrs. T. Stephan, E. Stephan and B. Stephan, H. Doughty, C. Hughes, A. Hughes, S. Hughes, N. Hughes, A. Gittings and H. Gittens, P. Wale (nephews); Mrs. P. Wale, Mrs. Wilkes, Mrs. S. Hughes, Mrs. A. Hughes and Mrs. Gittings (nieces); Mr. A. Hurdley, Mrs. C. Smith, Mrs. Langford’ and Mrs. Baden (cousins). Among the floral tributes was one from the neighbours and friends.

11 September 1937

BROSELEY

LATE MR. H. MASON.— The death took place on Thursday of Mr, Henry Mason, of Fiery Fields, Broseley, at the age of 60. Deceased, who saw service with the Royal Engineers in the War, was for many years employed as a tile presser at Messrs. Maw and Co’s works.

LATE MR. A. HARRIS

The, death occurred on Sept. 2, at the age of 71 years, of Mr. Abraham Harris, at his home, 33, Duke Street, after a few week’s illness. Deceased, who was a native of Broseley, was the second son of the late Mr. Richard Harris, sawyer. He had been in the employ of Messrs. Maw and Co., Ltd., Jackfield, for over 40 years as a tessellated flooring tile presser, up to the time of his retirement about six years ago. He took a keen interest in sport, and surviving contemporaries will remember him as a prominent playing member of one of the old Broseley football teams, and in his day he figured in many of the county football cup competitions. On many occasions he acted as umpire for the Broseley Cricket Club. Of late years his chief interest was bowling, and last year he was a finalist in a cup competition at, the Broseley Social Club, of which club he had been a member since its formation by the late Lord Forester in the year 1919. He was formerly a member of the local fire brigade. His wife predeceased him in the year 1919, and he is survived by two sons and an only daughter.

The funeral took place on Saturday at the Parish Church, and in the absence of the rector, the service was conducted by the Rev. J. C. Longbottom (vicar of Heckmondwike, Yorks.). The body was conveyed on the church bier, and the attendants were neighbours and friends, Messrs. Jas. Evans, J. C. Brown, G. Oakley, F. Oakley, W. Watkins and T. Goodall. The family mourners included: — Mr. and Mrs. Abraham Harris (son and daughter-in-law), Mrs. Edie Lewis, Patricroft, Manchester (daughter), Mr. Harry Harris (son), Master Leslie Harris (grandson), Mr. George Harris (brother), Miss Julia Quin and, Miss Annie Quin (sisters-in-law), Mr. Thomas Jones (Dawley), and Mr. Jack Quin, Coalport (brothers-in-law), Mr. Fred Shaw, Mr. and Mrs. W. Haynes, Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Wase, Mr. D. Boden, ‘Mr. C. Boden (Benthall), Mr. Arthur Harris, Mr. Leonard Harris (Shifnal), Mr. Ernest Harris, Mr. James Harris, and Mr. James Jones (nephews and nieces), also Messrs. G. and J. Meredith and A. Miles. Amongst others who attended were:— Mr. John Williams, works foreman (representing Messrs. Maw and Co., Ltd.), Mr. I. Gallier, Jackfield (representing the Press Shops), and several workmates, also many members of the Broseley Social Club and other friends. The interment was in the cemetery, in the grave with his late wife. The floral tributes included wreaths from the Directors of Messrs. Maw and Co., Ltd., his press shop workmates, and the Broseley Social Club.

18th September 1937

BROSELEY

THE “JOURNAL” representative for this district as from Sept. 25 is Mr. R. Allan, c/o “Holly House,” 3 Dale Road, Coalbrookdale to whom all notices of meetings, reports advertisements, etc., may be sent.

LATE MR. H. MASON

The death occurred on Sept. 9 at the age of 60, of Mr. Henry Mason, at his home, Fiery Field House, after a prolonged illness,

For 33 years Mr. Mason had been in the employ of Messrs. Maw and Co., Ltd., as a tessellated flooring tile presser, with a break of 5½ years, when he spent two years in Canada and returned in 1915 to join up in the Great War, serving for 3½ years in the Royal Engineers. He retired from work six years ago, owing to failing health.

From boyhood he had been connected with the Parish Church, first as a chorister and for nine years as organ-blower, afterwards serving on some of the committees, including the care of the churchyard. For many years he was a sidesman.

He took a great interest in cricket and was for many years an umpire for Broseley Cricket Club. In 1933 he was elected an honorary life member of the club. His keen interest in football caused his name to be found on the management committees of all the principal clubs in the district from time to time, right up to the present.

For 50 years he had been a member of the Oddfellows’ Friendly Society, the local “Rose of Sharon” Lodge, and he had passed through all the “chairs”. He had been a “live” member of the Broseley Social Club since its formation in 1919, and a member of the local branch of the British Legion from its start.

The funeral took place on Saturday at the Parish Church, and as a token of respect the church flag was hoisted half-mast. The service, which was choral, was conducted by the Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector). At the church gates the funeral procession was met by the surpliced choir, led by the cross-bearer, Mr. Gerald Oakley. Mr. Ronald Yorke was at the organ. The body was conveyed on the church bier, the attendants being members of the British Legion, Messrs. T. Goodall, F. Shaw, G. Perks, W. R Pountney, F. Chadwick and J. Fox.

The chief mourners included the widow, Mr. and Mrs. W. Ball (son-in-law and daughter), Mr. Dennis Mason (son), Mrs. James Lovett, Wellington (sister-in-law), Mr. H. Evans, Horsehay (cousin) and Mrs. W. Haynes, Benthall, and Mrs. H. Humphries, Aberystwyth.

Many members of the British Legion, with their standard carried by Mr. J. Bowen, attended, and also members of the Social Club and the Oddfellows’ Society, representatives Broseley Cricket Club and many former workmates. Mr. J. Williams (works foreman) represented Messrs. Maw and Co., Ltd. Others present included Mr. E. H. H. Shorting and Mr. W. S. Instone (churchwardens), Messrs. F. S. Francis, P. E. Hartshorne, A. O. Jones, E. Francis, W. Evans, A. J. Garbett, J. Higgins, A. Cleobury. W. T. Hudson. J. Walkins, F. Powell, Jos. Jones, J. Casey and A. Pountney.

The Oddfellows’ Oration was read at the graveside by the rector at the close of the committal service.

Among the wreaths were tributes from the directors of Maw and Co., Ltd., the workpeople of Maw and Co., Ltd., Broseley Social Club, Broseley Cricket Club, Benthall Cricket Club, and Broseley branch of the British Legion.

BROSELEY

LATE MRS. E. JONES.—The death occurred on Sept. 9 at the Royal Salop- Infirmary, of Mrs. Emily, Elizabeth Jones, aged 48, wife of Mr. Edward Jones, salesman, of 32, Duke Street. A native of Clovelly, N. Devon, she came to live in Broseley from Birmingham, with her husband (who was born in Broseley), just after their marriage 18 years ago. She was the only daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Abbot, Clovelly. She leaves a husband, son and daughter. The funeral took place on Saturday at the Parish church and the service was conducted by the rector (Rev. C. S Jackson). The family mourners included the widower. Norman Jones (son), and Mr. Oscar Abbot, Clovelly, only brother.

25th September 1937

JACKFIELD

THE MARRIAGE took place on Saturday at the St. Mary’s Parish Church, of Miss Harriet Evans, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Evans, of 82, Lloyd. Head, Jackfield, and Mr. John F. Fletcher, only son of Mr. and Mrs. John G. Fletcher of 4, Ladywood, Iron-Bridge.

The ceremony was performed by the rector, Rev. F. J. R. Mason. The bride, who was given away by her brother, Mr. Jack Evans, of Broseley, was attired in pink Satin with wreath and veil to match, and carried a sheaf of white lilies. The bridesmaids were the Misses Doreen Mason, J. Pumford and M. Evans (nieces of the bride), who wore dresses of mauve flowered georgette with pink halos and shoes to tone, and carried bouquets of pink carnations. The best man was Mr. S. J. Williams (a friend of the bridegroom).

The reception was held in the           Coalford Methodist Sunday Schoolroom, and afterwards Mr.  and Mrs. Fletcher left for North  Wales, where the honeymoon is being spent. Among the many presents was one from the work friends at Messrs. Maw and Co’s Tile. Works, where the bride has been employed, and one to the bridegroom from the staff at Bridgnorth G.W.R. Station

BROSELEY

THE WEDDING took place on Saturday at the Parish Church, the Rector (the Rev. C. S. Jackson) officiating, of Miss Olive H. Instone, elder daughter of Mr. and Mrs. S. W. Instone, of the Woodlands Farm, Broseley, and Mr. Thomas Alfred John Parker, only son of the late Mr. Charles C. Parker, formerly of Hednesford, and of Mrs. Herbert Evans, of Calcutts Road, Jackfield. Given away by her brother, Mr. S. W. Instone (jun.) the bride was attired in a pale blue satin gown and blue felt hat, with shoes to tone, and carried a bouquet of white chrysanthemums and maiden hair fern. Her chief bridesmaid was Miss. Ethel Parker, of Jackfield (sister of the bridegroom), who wore a pink floral georgette dress, with hat to match, and black patent shoes, and carried a  bouquet of bronze chrysanthemums and maidenhair fern. The bride’s little attendant was Miss Alma Owen, of Madeley (bride’s niece), who was dressed in blue crepe-de-Chine, with white kid shoes and white stockings, and carried a posy of scabrous and maidenhair fern. The other two bridesmaids were the Misses Annie and Gertie Evans, of Jackfield (step-sisters of the bridegroom), who were dressed in electric blue taffeta, with halo head-dress to tone, and black patent court shoes. They also carried bouquets of bronze chrysanthemums and maidenhair fern. The best man was Mr. Cyril Beeston, of Iron-Bridge (friend of the bridegroom). Afterwards a reception was held at the home of the bride’s parents and later Mr. and Mrs. Parker left for their new home at The Lloyds, Coalport. Among the numerous presents was a handsome Westminster chimes clock from the fellow-workmates of the bridegroom at Coalbrookdale Iron-Works.

BROSELEY

LATE MR. C. Edwards. — The death occurred on Thursday at the Lady Forester Hospital, after a little over one week’s illness and an operation, of Mr. Cyril Francis Edwards, the age of 35, third son of Mr. and Mrs. John Edwards, Church Street. For over ten years he had managed the business of a general dealer for his invalid father. As a boy he was a chorister at the Parish Church, and later, for several years, served as a sidesman. He was a popular member of the Social Club. He leaves a father, mother and two brothers. The funeral has been arranged to take place this (Saturday) afternoon.

FRIENDLY SOCIETIES’ HOSPITAL
PARADE

The forty-second annual church Parade of the Broseley and District Friendly Societies was held on Sunday. The meeting place was at Ferney Bank, Broseley Wood, and to  mark the Coronation year a special invitation was sent out by the hospitals’ committee to the various societies and organisations in the district with the result that an imposing procession was formed, comprising a large number of members of the local branch of the British Legion with their standard, in the charge of Mr. T. Goodall, the Broseley and Iron-Bridge Fire Brigades under Capt. G. Gittins and P. Davies; the St. John Ambulance Brigade (men’s branch), under Supt. F. Hill, R.A. Order of Buffaloes, “O. D. Murphy” Lodge (Broseley), “Severn” Lodge (Iron-Bridge), and “Sir Wm. Timms” Lodge (Iron-Bridge), members of the Ancient Order of Foresters, and Order of Odd-fellows, with Juveniles.

The procession, led by Mr. W. Watkins carrying the united Friendly Societies’ wreath, and marshalled by Messrs. J. H. Cross, W. Haynes, H. Bill, P. Archer and J. Madeley, was headed by the Jackfield Prize Silver Band, under the conductorship of Bandmaster W. Ellis, and marched through the principal streets of the town to the Parish Church. At the Town Hall the procession was joined by the Mayor Of Wenlock (the Rt. Hon. Lord Forester), the town clerk (Mr. F. W. Derry), the Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector), members of the Borough Council, including alderman J. Nicklin, Messrs. T. W. Howells, E. H. H. Shorting, C. R. Jones and P. W. Parr, and borough officials, Messrs. F. Richards, C. Thomas and F. S. Francis. The Shropshire Constabulary was represented by Inspector Machin (Iron-Bridge), P.C. Ogilvie (Broseley), and P.C. Betts (Jackfield). At the Town War Memorial, a halt was made while the Friendly Societies’ wreath was placed thereon by Mr R. Whitmore (vice-chairman). A street collection was taken en route.

There was a large congregation at the church service, which was conducted, by the rector (Rev. C. S. Jackson) and commenced with the singing of the National Anthem. The preacher was the Rev. T. Dysan Thomas (Leicester), director of Midland Area Industrial Christian Fellowship, and the lesson was read by Lord Forester. The choir led the singing of the psalms and hymns with Ronald Yorke at the organ. The procession marched back to the Town Hall for dismissal, and afterwards the Band played selections in the Town Hall Square. The church collection amounted to £7 8s. 9d., which is an increase on those of the last few years. The Street collection, taken under special permit from the county authority, amounted to £9 3s. 9d., the whole of which will be devoted to the hospitals. These amounts and receipts from other sources including the collecting boxes from the licensed houses in the town, made a total stem of over £28.

The Col. Baldwin-Webb shield, given for the best collecting box returned from the licensed houses, was won this year by Mrs. T. Marlow of the Lord Hill Inn, Broseley, whose box contained £4 1s. 7d.

During the 42 years this Friendly Societies’ Hospital Committee has been in existence, over £1,500 has been contributed to the hospitals. Mr. J. Watkins has held the office of chairman for over 30 years; Mr. R. Whitmore is vice-chairman, Mr. J. Burne hon. treasurer, and Mr. J. Minton hon. secretary.

2nd October 1937

BROSELEY

THE  FUNERAL of Mr. Cyril Edwards, Church Street, took place at the Parish Church on Saturday, and the service was conducted by the Rev. C. S. Jackson (Rector). The choir, of which Mr. Edwards was formerly a member, attended and Mr. Matthew Davies was at the organ. The family mourners were Mr. and Mrs. J. Edwards (father and mother), Mr. and Mrs. T. W. Edwards, London (brother and sister-in-law), Mr. and Mrs. S. J. Edwards, Kidderminster, (brother and sister-in-law), Mr. and Mrs. N. Oakley and family (uncle, aunt and cousins), Miss Elizabeth Chadwick, Miss S. Chadwick, Messrs. Frank, Edward and George Chadwick, Mrs. G. Chadwick, and Mr. T. Evans (cousins). The bearers were six of his friends—Messrs. H. Watkins, W. Dodd, S. Callear, W. Garbett, C. Garbett and C. Everall. Members of the “Rose of the Green” Court of the Ancient Order of Foresters, of which Mr. Edwards was a member, attended the funeral, and Mr. H. P. Bowen (secretary) read the funeral oration over the grave. The Rector made sympathetic reference to the death of Mr. Edwards at the Sunday morning service and a half-muffled peal was rung on the bells.

THE WEDDING took place at the Parish Church on Saturday, the Rector, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, officiating, of Miss Alice Margaret Mullard, third daughter of Mrs. and the late Mr. G. Mullard, 11, Buildwas Road, Iron-Bridge, and Mr. Robert Henry Burns, only son of Mr. and Mrs. R. Burns, 4, Cape Street, Broseley. The bride, who was given away by her brother, Mr. William Mullard, wore a dress of pale green satin with a hat and shoes to tone. Her bouquet was of pink rose-buds. The bridesmaids were Miss Eileen Mullard (the bride’s sister) and Miss Evelyn Shepherd. They were dressed in mauve crepe-de-Chine and carried bouquets of pink carnations. Mr. Percy Gilmore was best man. A reception was held at the home of the bridegroom.

JACKFIELD

THE WEDDING took place at the Parish Church on Saturday of Miss Ethel Colley, adopted daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. Colley, The Cottage, Jackfield, and Mr. Leonard Edward Hughes, second son of Mr. and Mrs. E. Hughes, 10, The Forge, Coalbrookdale. The Rev. F. J. R. Mason (rector) was the officiating clergyman. The bride, who was given away by her uncle, Mr. G. W. Hall, wore blue satin with a wreath and veil and silver shoes. She carried a bouquet of lilies. The bridesmaids were Miss Margaret Colley (the bride’s sister), and Miss Margaret Hughes (the bridegroom’s sister). They were dressed in mauve crepe cloth with silver halos and shoes to tone, and carried bouquets of pink roses. A reception was held at the bride’s home.

BROSELEY

ROSE DAY.—The amount collected on Sept. 24 by the sale of roses in connection with the annual appeal of the Alexandra Rose Day, was £5 4s, 11d., and this has been forwarded to the secretary (Mr. George Fryer) of the Royal Salop Infirmary, Local arrangements were made by Mrs. J. Aston, and the sellers were Mrs. Betts. Mrs. Sea bury and Miss Brookes.

BROSELEY TILE  WAGES DISPUTE.

STRIKE  POSSIBILITY

THE wage dispute in the Broseley tile industry reached a further stage this-week, and a ballot, organised by the Transport and General Workers’ Union, to decide for or against a strike is now in progress among the workers.

A “Journal” representative was informed       yesterday (Friday) that over 70 per cent. of the papers had been returned, and that these so far were 100 per cent. in favour of strike action.

If the ballot favours a strike, sanction will have to be obtained from the Union headquarters before it is officially supported by the Union. About 260 employees are affected.

The Union has asked the employers for a meeting to discuss an increase in wages and for recognition of the Union but, up to yesterday no meeting had taken place.

16th October1937

SALOP COUNTY COUNCIL.

ROAD TRAFFIC ACT, 1930. Section 46. ROAD and RAIL TRAFFIC ACT, 1933, Section. 29.

JACKFIELD BRIDGE.

WHEREAS in pursuance of Section 46 (1) of the Road Traffic Act, 1930, as amended by Section 29 of the Road and hail Traffic Act, 1933, the Salop County Council have made application to the Minister of Transport for confirmation of an Order made by them on the 16th October, 1937, the effect of which is set out in the Schedule hereto.

Notice is hereby given that objections to the Order may be sent in writing to the Minister of Transport, Roads Department, Metropole Buildings Northumberland Avenue, London. W.C.2. on or before the 1st day of November. 1937.

A copy of any such objection should be sent at the same time by the objector to the undersigned.

Dated this 16th day of October, 1937.

W. L. EDGE. Clerk.

Salop County Council.

Shirehall, Shrewsbury.

THE SCHEDULE;

To prohibit the driving over the Jackfield Bridge of any Vehicle the weight of which whether laden or unladen, exceeds Eight Tons, or any axle load of which exceeds Five Tons.

To restrict the Speed of Vehicles over the said Bridge to not exceeding Five Miles per. Hour.

WENLOCK MAYORALTY
BROSELY TO NOMINATE
MR, E. H. H. SHORTING

IT is understood that Mr. Ernest Hastings Hamilton Shorting, “The Lawns,” Broseley, is to be nominated by the Broseley Ward Council for the forthcoming choice of Mayor of Wenlock.

Mr. Shorting entered the Council in 1931 and is seeking re-election on November 1. At the 1934 election he was unopposed.

The youngest son of the late Mr. E. W. Shorting, of Broseley, who was a J.P. the Borough of Wenlock for 27 years, Mr. Shorting is a native of Broseley, where he has spent most of his life, and he has taken an active interest in many of the town’s organisations. He has been a warden of the Parish Church for eight years and is a member of the Hereford Diocesan Board of Finance. He is chairman -of the Broseley men’s branch of the Conservative Association.

He is keenly interested in gardening, and is a Fellow of the Royal Horticultural Society. He has acted as judge at many local flower shows and was chairman of the recent Broseley Coronation Flower Show. Other things in which Mr. Shorting takes an interest are the Shropshire Society in London, whose functions he attends, the Broseley Cricket Club, and the Broseley Schools, of which he is a manager. Mr. Shorting, who is a bachelor, resides with his mother.

JACKFIELD

LATE MR. BAYNHAM. — The funeral of Mr. Frederick Baynham, 125, The Crossing, took place at St. Mary’s Church on Saturday. The Rev. F. J. R. Mason (Rector) conducted the service and Miss E. Perkins was organist. The chief mourners were the widow, Mr. and Mrs. J. T. Baynham (son and daughter-in-law), Mr. and Mrs. C. Baynham, (son and daughter-in-law), Mr. and Mrs. A. Baynham, of Kidderminster (brother and sister-in-law), Mr. J. Norrey, Broseley (brother-in-law), and Mr. and Mrs. C. Hough, Broseley (nephew and niece). The bearers were fellow employees on the railway— Messrs. W. Dickins, J. Dickins, J. Clapton, J. Ansell, J. Casey and J. Walford. The G.W.R. Co. was represented by Inspector Heeley and Mr. Insall (stationmaster, Iron-Bridge). Others present included Inspector J. Dickin (retired), Messrs. J. Bunnager, G. Bill, W. Evans, F. Dodd, H. Evans, W. Hurdley, F. Preston, W. Hudson, G. Turnbull and Mr. and Mrs. H. Suthon.

23rd October 1937

WENLOCK TOWN COUNCIL TOPICS

A special meeting of Wenlock Town Council was held at the Guildhall on Thursday, Lord Forester presiding.

The clerk (Mr. F. W. Derry) read a communication from the County Council with reference to the Police Station  at Iron-Bridge, which it was stated would be closed on March 30, 1938 and new premises had been purchased known as Eastfield.

Air-Raid Precautions

The clerk intimated that he had received a letter from the County Council on air-raid precautions

Ald. T. H. Thompson said they had made little progress in the Wenlock Borough with regard to air-raid precautions, and he felt they should take steps in the matter. He believed the Government had agreed to pay 90 per cent. towards the expenses incurred by local authorities, so that their expenses would not exceed a penny rate. There was not much to be done as far as organisation was concerned. He believed in the Wenlock Ward they had appointed wardens, and the British Legion had undertaken other duties, It was their duty to organise the Boro’ against air-raids.

It was stated that Broseley and Madeley were moving in the matter.

Ald. Thompson suggested that Maj. Golden should hold a public meeting at Madeley at an early date and then people would get to know the seriousness of preparing against air-raids.

The chairman said it would help a great deal if people were more aware of the grant of 90 per cent. towards expenses offered.

Free Bridge at Jackfield

The clerk read a letter from the County Council saying that they did not intend to proceed for the time being with the construction of the new bridge at Iron-Bridge, owing to the greatly increased amount of the tender due to the rise in materials. The Roads and Bridges Committee had given consideration to the amount of traffic the locality and had considered a report of the county surveyor with regard to the Free Bridge at Jackfield. They had decided to make an order prohibiting the travelling over the Free Bridge of vehicles whose weight exceeded eight tons, and restricting the speed to five miles an hour. The County Council was prepared to carry out necessary repairs to the bridge subject to receiving a satisfactory grant, and that they contribute 75 per cent. to the Wenlock Council’s cost of maintaining the unclassified approach roads from the Police Station to the bridge, and from the Broseley hairpin bend to the bridge.

Ald. W. G. Dyas moved that the Council agreed to those terms. In his opinion they were making a very good bargain with the County Council. The County Council originally wanted the borough to pay half the cost of repairing the bridge, which he believed would be quite a large amount. The bridge was at present in very bad order. Fortunately they had been able to persuade the County Council to pay more than half towards repairing the bridge and maintaining it until the new bridge was built. He might add that the contract for the new bridge had more than doubled what it was estimated at when the bridge was originally intended to be erected.

Ald. W. Roberts, seconding, said that when the Free Bridge was built they wanted a stronger one, but the County Council refused their request. Now they had had to come to the rescue.

Mr. E. D. Collins moved an amendment that the tonnage of eight tons should be increased to twelve. Unless they increased the weight it was going to hit the Broseley and district manufacturers and haulage contractors rather hard.

Ald. J. Nicklin said he thought the amendment a very reasonable one. The bridge had got to be strengthened before the County Council would take any responsibility at all. The bridge was only erected for ordinary transport of under eight tons. Here was an opportunity to get a bridge for the time being safe enough to deal with the transport of their manufacturing firms. Mr. C. R. H. Kane and Mr. O. D. Murphy also supported the amendment.

Ald. Dyas said he agreed with Mr. Collins’s point. He  thought he was correct in saying that it was the borough that asked the County Council to restrict vehicles going over the bridge to eight tons.—Ald. Nicklin: Yes, that is so.

Ald. Dyas said he did not think the borough knew the bridge was in such a bad condition until the county surveyor examined it.

Mr. Murphy said they had no iron-bridge in use now. He thought it was a disgrace to the County Council that they should have shelved the matter in the way they had done. A bridge at Iron-Bridge was absolutely necessary, and it was a disgrace to the County to see it lying as it was.

It was decided to incorporate the amendment with the original proposition.

Mr. R. A. Jones moved an amendment that the County Council be asked to proceed with the new bridge. It was all very well to go on shelving things, he said. One hundred thousand tons more steel was being produced in the next 22 months, and yet they were being put off for an indefinite period. To strengthen the Free Bridge would cost a lot of money, and they would never get the new bridge if they let the matter dwindle. He thought they ought to “scrap” the iron-bridge; there were enough ancient monuments in the town. They could then build a new bridge right away,

There was no seconder to this amendment.

BROSELEY

LATE MR. A. PRICE.— The death occurred on Saturday of Mr. Alfred Price, 5, Rough Lane, at the age of 61. Mr. Price, who was a native of Broseley, had been ill for several years, but his death was rather sudden. He had been employed by Messrs. Maw and Co. for 40 years. The funeral took place at the cemetery on Tuesday, the officiating minister being the Rev. F. J. R. Mason, rector of Jackfield. The chief mourners were the widow, Mr. and Mrs. J. Evans (son-in-law and daughter); Mr. and Mrs. W. Holley, Madeley (son-in-law and daughter); Mrs. J. Burns (adopted daughter) and Mr. Burns, Mrs. Price, Foundry Lane (mother); Messrs. Henry, Ezra, Will, Herbert and Charlie Price (brothers); Mrs. Ezra Price and Mrs. Charlie Price (sister-in-law); Mr. and Mrs. H. Gittins, Jackfield (brother-in-law and sister-in-law); Mr. Albert Gittins (nephew); Mr. and Mrs. G. Perks (uncle and aunt); Mrs. J. Gittins (aunt); Mr. G. Gittins (uncle); Mr. and Mrs. L. G. Wilkes, Birmingham (nephew and niece); Messrs. Tom, George and Will Meredith (cousins) and Mr. G. Wilde. Among those present were the Rev. Lloyd Morgan, Madeley, and Mr. Correll, Broseley. The bearers were Messrs. W. Dodd, C. Maiden, J. Langford, W. Mear, F. Watling and C. Sankey. A number of former workmates at Messrs. Maw and Co.’s.

JACKFIELD

BAND WHIST AND DANCE. — Members of the Jackfield Prize Silver sand held their annual whist drive and dance at St. Mary’s hall on Oct. 15. The M.C. for the whist was Mr. T. C. Gibbs, and Mrs. Gibbs presented prizes to:- 1 Miss L. Evans, 2 Mrs. T. Wright, 3 Mrs. G. Britton; 1 Mr. A. Rogers, 2 Mrs. A. Harris (playing as gentleman), 3 Mr. C. Garbett; consolation, Mrs. J. Goodall. For the dance which followed, Mr. H. Fergusson was M.C. and the spot waltz winners were Miss M. Seabury and Mr. J. Wilson. Refreshments were served by Mrs. Williams, Mrs. Green, Mrs. Poole and Mrs. F. Dodd. The event was organised by a committee, of which Mr. George Stewart is secretary, and the proceeds were in aid of band funds.

COALFORD METHODIST SUNDAY SCHOOL. — The children’s harvest festival service was held in the Schoolroom on Sunday by the Rev. E. W. A. Barber, Madeley, the newly-appointed minister. The devotional part was conducted by Mr. J. Pumford (superintendent), assisted by Mr. W. H. Poole (assistant superintendent) Choruses were sung by Misses A. Cleobury, I. Weale, D. Fox, and J. Pumford. The soloist was Mr. W. H. Poole. Mr. G. Sheward was at the organ. The Schoolroom had been decorated by the following teachers and friends:—Mrs. W. H. Poole, Mrs. J. Pumford, Mrs. 3. Evans, Mrs. Stokes, Mrs. W. H Anderson, Mrs. Peake, Miss Stokes, and Miss Kenworthy, Mrs. J. Poole, Mrs. Gibson, Mr. J. Pumford, Mr. J. Evans, and Mr. S. Blackford. On Monday the sale of harvest gifts took place in the Schoolroom, conducted by Mr. J Pumford, assisted by the teachers. The proceeds, with the collections of the previous day, amounted to £5 5s., and were devoted to Sunday school funds.

JACKFIELD

THE WEDDING took place at St. Mary’s Church on Saturday of Miss Winifred Summers, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. T. Summers, of Ladywood House. Jackfield, and Mr. Norman Arthur Dudley, eldest son of Mrs. Weston, of 31, Aqueduct, Madeley. The Rector (the Rev. F. J. R. Mason) officiated and Mr. Gerald Edge, who was at the organ, played “The Voice that breathed o’er Eden.” The bride, who was given away by her father, was attired in a dress of ivory satin beauté with train and trimmed with orange blossom. She also wore a veil and wreath of orange blossom and carried a bouquet of lilies. The chief bridesmaids, Miss Freda Onions and Miss Phyllis Hyde, wore dresses of pink satin beauté with head-dresses of pink roses and silver leaves, and silver shoes and carried bouquets of pink carnations. There were also two small attendants, Miss Dorothy Hyde and Master Dennis Dabbs who acted as page. Both wore white satin and silver shoes and in addition the former had a head-dress of pink rosebuds and silver leaves and wore a posy of pink and white. The best man was Mr. Harry Dabbs and the ushers were Mr. William Summers (bride’s brother), and Mr. Jack Thompson (bride’s brother-in- law). A reception was held at the bride’s home. Among the many presents received was one of a clock from the employees Messrs. Maw and Co., where the bride was employed.

BROSELEY

APOLOGY TO BENCH.—When Francis H. Whitehead, aged 36, of the White House, Speeds Lane, appeared before the Dudley Bench on Wednesday, the Mayor said: “You have had the indignity of having a warrant issued against you for the improper remark contained in your letter.” Whitehead had been summoned for failing to have an efficient silencer on a motor-lorry. — When the case first came before the Court, defendant sent a letter enclosing a postal order for 5s. The letter added that if it were not enough “perhaps the police officer would take his hat round and make it up.” — Whitehead said he was very sorry for what he wrote. At the time, he had been in an accident and his wife and child were ill. In fining him 20s., the Mayor said the magistrates had taken no notice of the letter in view of the man’s apology. They hoped it would be a lesson to him not to treat the Court in that manner in future.

UNITED BROTHERHOOD. — The first meeting of the winter session took place at the Town Hall on Sunday and attracted a large gathering. The Rev. C. S. Jackson (chaplain) presided, and an address on “Child Psychology” was given by Dr. John Hammond, of Wolverhampton. The soloists were Mr. D. Goodwin (baritone), Newcastle, Staffs., and Mr. Vincent Davis (tenor). Stoke. A vote of thanks to the speaker and soloists was proposed by Mr. T. Goodall (secretary).

30th October 1937

BROSELEY

A SOCIAL is held in the Town Hall on Saturday in connection with the Parish Church. One of the special attractions of the evening was a beetle drive, the winners of which were Miss Edwards and Master Hallett. There were also games, and the evening concluded with a dance, the M.C. being Mr. C. Davies. Refreshments were served by the ladies of the social committee and the arrangements for the social were made by Mr. C. Davies.

LATE MRS. E. NICKLESS

The funeral of Mrs. Elizabeth Nickless, of 3, King Street, who died on Oct. 18, took place at the cemetery on Saturday. Mrs. Nickless, who was 81, was the widow of Mr. Richard Nickless, builder, of Iron-Bridge. She was a well-known figure and had lived for many years in Iron-Bridge, her native town, before coming to Broseley 12 months ago. While in Iron-Bridge she was a regular attendant at Madeley Wood Methodist Church. The Rev. R. H. Osborne, circuit minister at Madeley Wood, conducted the service in the cemetery chapel, and Mr. E. C. S. White (diocesan lay reader) read a lesson.

The chief mourners were Mr. and Mrs. F. Ellis (son-in-law and daughter), Mr. and Mrs. F. Corfield (son-in-law and daughter), Mr. and Mrs. H. Bowen (son-in-law and daughter), Messrs. Harry, Sydney, Fred and Harold Nickless (grandsons), Miss Gertrude Bowen (granddaughter), Messrs. Frank, Tom and James Poole, and J. G. Bradeley (nephews), Miss D. Lears, Mr. G. Lears and Mrs. S. Williams. The bearers were Messrs. G. Roe, E. Armstrong, W. Boden. R. Heighway, T. Corfield and W. Bowen. Others present included Messrs. G. Roden, G. Williams, A. Brazier, A. Beddoes, F. Williams, H. Southern, J. Bowen. W. Denstone and H. Evans.

Wreaths were received from Ellen and Fred, Annie and Fred. Mabel and Harold (daughters and sons-in-law): T. Webbley (brother-in-law). Freda. Grace, Gertrude (granddaughters); Fred, Harry, Sydney, Harold (grandsons): Lizzie (niece); Mr. and Mrs. F. Poole: Mr. and Mrs. T. Poole: Mr. and Mrs. J. Poole: Mr. and Mrs. J. Bradeley (nephews and nieces) : Miss Lears: Mrs. Ellis, Will. Alice and Audrey: Annie and Lottie: Mr. and Mrs. Roe: Mrs. Williams: Mrs. Morris: all at Broseley Hall; Mrs. Nelson: Mrs. Seabury; Mr. and Mrs. Heighway: Mrs. Hewson; Mr. and Mrs. Beddoes and Arthur; Mr and Mrs. Brazier: Mr. and Mrs W. Bowen: the Mission Gardens: Mr. and Mrs. H. Evans; Mrs Welch.

A memorial service is being held on Sunday evening at Madeley Wood Church.

BROSELEY

A RUMMAGE SALE was held at the Town Hall on Wednesday, when over £11 was raised on behalf of the Coal, Shoe and Clothing Clubs. The organisers were Mrs. Broadhurst, Miss Lister and Miss H. C. Potts, and the helpers consisted of Mrs. Broadhurst, Mrs. R. Smith, Mrs. J. Jones, Miss A. Jones. Miss Lister, Mrs. G. Potts. Mrs. Bayfield, Mrs. White, Miss Horton, Mrs. Wood, Mrs. Roberts, Miss Lloyd, Miss M. A. Potts, Messrs. E. C. S. White and J. Lloyd, and others.

METHODIST CHURCH. — A social evening took place on Tuesday, when the Rev. E. W. A. Barber, Madeley, presided over a large company. The first part of the social was devoted to games and competitions, for which Mrs. F. C. Howells presented the prizes, and there was also a sketch which created much amusement. The arrangements were made by Mr. E. Humphries, assisted by the single men of the church.

BRITISH LEGION

The annual meeting, of the local branch was held at the Town Hall on Thursday, when Mr. C. T. Harrison was in the chair.

Mr. E. C. S. White (treasurer) presented the statement of accounts for the past year, and this showed that there was a balance in hand of £17 10s., an increase on the previous year.

The auditor, Mr. J. B. Nicklin, complimented the branch on the way the books had been kept, both by the treasurer and the secretary (Mr. J. Clapton).

Mr. P. Archer (secretary) presented the report of the Benevolent Fund, which showed that a number of cases had been dealt with sympathetically, upwards of £20 having been distributed.

The Benevolent Committee was re-elected, with the addition of Mr. Owen Jones.

The president, Col. the Rt. Hon. Lord Forester, was unanimously re-elected president, and other appointments were:-Chairman, Mr. C. T. Harrison; vice-chairman, Capt. E. D. Collins; secretary, Mr. J. Clapton; treasurer, Mr. E. C. S. White; standard bearer, Mr. J. Bowen; auditor, Mr. J. B. Nicklin; committee, Messrs. T. W. Howells, P. W. Parr, W. R. Pountney, L. Wase, W. Wase, T. Goodall, P. Archer, W. J. Ritchings, Owen Jones, A. Haynes, and Towler.

A letter was read from Lord Forester inviting the branch to attend the handing over of the old colours of his regiment (the Royal Horse Guards) for placing in Willey Church, on Nov. 7., It was unanimously decided that the branch be represented, and a letter be sent to Lord Forester thanking him for the invitation.

A small sub-committee, consisting of Messrs. T. Goodall, W. J. Ritchings, and B. Wase was appointed to arrange for the annual dinner next month.

Mr. White and Mrs. Ogilvie were appointed to make arrangements for Poppy Day.

6th November 1937

Many congratulations were extended to Mr. and Mrs. Francis Hayward, of 62, Shirlett, near Broseley, on Wednesday on completing 60 years of married life.

Both have reached the age of 80, and are enjoying the best of health.

They were married in London on Nov. 3, 1877, and have lived in Shropshire nearly all their lives.

Mr. Hayward is a member of a family well known in the Montford Bridge district, and is the youngest son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Hayward, formerly of Broomfield, Montford Bridge.

A keen Methodist, Mr. Francis Hayward was well known as a local preacher, and for about 30 years he was engaged in the Hadnall circuit.

“A Human Scarecrow”

He started work at the age of nine, and was employed at Ensdon Farm, Montford Bridge, as a rook minder, for which he was paid 1s. a week.

“I used to scare the rooks away”, he explained in an interview. “I was what you might call a human scarecrow”, he added with a twinkle in his eye.

He has held various other positions, including those of footman, coachman and gardener, and since he went to live in a little thatched cottage on the Willey estate—some 30 years ago—he was a woodman on the estate, until he retired some 10 years ago.

He has worked for three Lords Forester, and can recall five holders of the title.

Mr. and Mrs. Hayward have a family of five sons and seven daughters, and there are also 38 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. All the sons served in the war.

BROSELEY

AN INNOVATION. — A pleasant time was spent by about 70 people at a social evening held in the Town Hall on Wednesday and organised by the church social committee. Lady Forester, who was accompanied by her sister and Lord Forester, acted, as hostess and the social took the form of a conversation, all joining in to make the function, which was the first of its kind held, an enjoyable and extremely friendly affair. During the evening a programme was provided by the Misses. Barbara Heas, Hazel Price and Edith Buckett (accompanist), and Messrs Harold Francis and Bryan Jones, all of Shrewsbury. Refreshments were in the charge of the ladies of the social committee, who were also responsible for the pretty decorative effect. Mr. C. Davies, secretary of the social Committee, made the arrangements and the proceeds are to be devoted to decorating a room in the Town Hall for the library, Among those present in addition to the names mentioned were Lady Norah More, Mr. E. H. H. Shorting (Mayor-elect), Mr. and Mrs. H. Welch. Mr. W. T. Howells, Mr. and Mrs. R. Nicklin, Mr. and Mrs. Andrews, the Misses Potts, Mrs. R. A. Instone, and the Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector of Broseley). Assistance was given at the door by Mr. Joe Jones.

13th November 1937

PREPARING FOR NEW BRIDGE AT IRON-BRIDGE

ALTHOUGH the construction of a new bridge at Iron Bridge has been deferred for the present, the Roads and Bridges Committee reported to the Salop County Council on Saturday that the acquisition of such of the land and property as would eventually be required, particularly that it the island block on Tontine Hill was being proceeded with.

The following property which was included in the schedule of property to be acquired compulsorily, had been acquired by agreement:-Grocer’s shop and dwelling-house and florist’s Shop, £650; chemist’s shop and  dwelling-house, confectioner’s shop and flat over, £2.250; cottages, £275

This property comprised practically the whole of the island block of property at the northern end of the old Iron-Bridge.

BROSELEY

DANCE. — About 150 were present at a dance at the Town Hall on Nov. 5, organised by the Sunday School of the parish. Mr. George Roberts was M.C., and refreshments were served under the supervision of Miss H. C. Potts, assisted by teachers. Mr. Gerald Oakley was responsible for the arrangements made, and the proceeds were devoted to the physical culture club, which has recently been formed in the town.

COUNTY COUNCIL AND CHURCH STREET SCHEME.—At a meeting of the Salop County Council on Saturday, the Roads and Bridges Committee referred in their report to the decision made by the Council in February last, to eliminate a sharp curve in Church Street, Broseley, as the result of the vicar of Broseley having generously offered, subject to the approval of the Ecclesiastical Commissioners, to allow the Council to demolish part of the vicarage and some of its outhouses, which occupied the inner side of the curve without requiring alternative accommodation or compensatory works. It now appeared, the committee stated, that payment of 1s. a yard for the land and the execution of numerous compensatory works, the cost of which was roughly estimated at £500, were required. In view of the altered conditions, the committee saw no reasonable alternative but to recommend that the scheme be not carried out. The Council agreed to this.

BROSELEY

LATE MR. J. WOOLLAM.—The funeral took place at the cemetery on Wednesday of Mr. John Woollam, 6, Fox Lane, whose death occurred rather suddenly on the previous Friday at the age of 57. Mr. Woollam, who was a native of Ellesmere, had lived in the town nearly all his life and was particularly well-known among the business people. He had been connected with the bakery trade for 40 years and for over half that time he had owned a bakery and confectionery business in Church St., retiring five years ago. At the funeral service the Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector) officiated and the chief mourners were the widow; Mr. and Mrs. F. Hotchkins, Ponciau, Wrexham (brother-in-law and sister); Mr. and Mrs. T. Luke, Rhostyllen (brother-in-law and sister); Mrs. V. Steen, Rhostyllen (niece); Mr. H. Luke, Rhostyllen (nephew); Mr. and Mrs. Lovett, Wellington (brother-in-law and sister-in-law); Mrs. M. Mason (sister-in-law); Mr. Dennis Mason and Mr. W. Ball. Others present included Messrs. F. Powell, T. Bennett, A. Pountney, A. Garbett, P. Hartshorn, C. Thomas, T. Wedge and J. Wilkes. The bearers were Messrs. A. Fielding, W. Ward, F. gnaw. W. A.. J. Casey and G. Oakley.

POPPY DAY. — Arrangements were made by Mrs. A. Ogilvie and Mr. E. C. S. White, who had the assistance of a large number of helpers. The sellers who had charge of collecting boxes on Wednesday were: For Willey, Mrs. Hugh Welch; Linley, Mrs. Rowland Hunt; Jackfield, Mrs. W. Price; Benthall, Mrs. G. Jones and Mrs: G. Whitmore; Broseley, Mrs. Ogilvie, Mrs. C. Hall, Mrs. M. Molineux, Mrs. J. Aston, Mrs. C. Harrison, Mrs. J. Harris, Mrs. Towler, Miss Jean Clapton, Miss M. Gainham, Miss O. Brookes and Mr. J. Sankey.

ARMISTICE DAY.—At the open-air service held near the War Memorial the Rector of Broseley, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, said special prayers and gave a brief address.

BENTHALL (Broseley)

DEATH OF MR. T. WILDE. — The death occurred on Sunday after a short illness, of Mr. Thos. Wilde, who had completed over years in the employ of Messrs. Maw and Co., Jackfield. Mr. Wilde, who was 72, commenced work at the age of 13 at the old Benthall Works, and he was employed as a fireman for the greater part of his service. — The funeral took place on Tuesday, the Rev. R. H. Osborne (Madeley Wood Methodist Church) conducting a service in Benthall Church before the burial in the new cemetery. The family mourners were Mr. William Wilde, Ruabon (brother). Mr. G; Wilde (brother), Mr. A. Wilde (brother), Mr. J. Wilcox; Birmingham (brother-in-law), Mr. F. W. Davies (son-in-law), Mr. O. Bowen, Cefn, Mr. J. Ledger, Mr. L, Davies, Ruabon, and Mr. J. Bowen, Cefn (nephews), and Mr. E. Humphries. Others present included Mrs. F. C. Howells (Field House; Broseley), Messrs. M. Davis, C. Davis, C. Thomas, J. Beaman, O. Jones, C. Jones, G. Overhand and J. Meredith. Members of Mr. Wilde’s Lodge of Foresters attended and the funeral oration was read at the graveside by Mr. J. Roper. The bearers were Messrs. Dromgole, A. O. Jones, J. Cross, N. Taylor. G. Whitmore, P. Symonds, W. Harris and E. Molyneux.

INTERESTING CEREMONY AT WILLEY

OLD REGIMENTAL COLOURS PRESENTED TO CHURCH

THE presentation to Willey Church of the old regimental colours of the Royal Horse Guards, of which regiment Lord Forester is a colonel, took place with appropriate ceremony on Sunday in the presence of a crowded congregation.

A colour party consisting of four officers of Royal Horse Guards, London, bearing the regimental standard, took up a position outside the church, and after the singing of the hymn, “O God, our Help in ages past”, entered the church to the music of the regimental march, played on the organ by Mr. William Wase. At the chancel they were met by Lord Forester, in full uniform, and the rector of Willey, the Rev. W. G. Beale, who said they were gathered in that church to lay up that standard of the Royal Regiment of  Horse Guards. No more fitting place could be found, he said, wherein to deposit those emblems of duty and service than the House of God.

Lord Forester then took the King’s Colour in his right hand and the Regimental Colour in his left, and after the colour party had presented arms, he advanced to the altar and said: “This consecrated standard, formerly carried in the service of the King and Empire, I now deliver into your hands for safe custody within these walls”. Then followed the flourish of a trumpet, and the rector, accepting the standard on behalf of the church, placed it upon the altar. The ceremony closed with the singing of the National Anthem. During evensong, which followed, Lord Forester read the lesson.

The rector was supported at the service by the Rev. R. F. J. Sawyer (rector of Astley Abbotts) and the Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector of Broseley), while the Rev. J. W. Isherwood (rural dean and vicar of Wenlock) was the preacher.

Among those present at the service were Lord and Lady Forester, Lady Maitland. Lieut.Col. the Hon. Francis H. C. Weld-Forester. Hon. Mrs. Weld-Forester, Major-Gen, H. D. O. Ward and Mrs. Ward, Lady Norah More, Mr. Mytton More,Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Welsh, Capt. Boon, Dr. Turner, Lieut.-Col. Key-worth, Mr. Keyworth, Mrs. and Miss Keyworth, Inspector J. H. Machin, Mrs. Beale and Mrs. Isherwood. Mr, C. T. Harrison (chairman) was in charge of the British Legion, who attended with their standard-bearer, Mr. J. Bowen,

20th November 1937

TILE WORKERS AND WAGE DISPUTE

MEETINGS AT BROSELEY AND MADELEY

STRIKE POSSIBLE-BEFORE OR AFTER CHRISTMAS?

Mr R. J. W. Clarke, Midlands divisional organiser of the Transport and General Workers’ Union, and who has recently been elected Mayor of Burton, addressed a meeting of tile workers at Broseley, on Monday in connection with the wages dispute.

Mr. A. Flavell, Wolverhampton, district organiser of the Union, presided, and emphasised the importance of considering carefully what steps the members were going to take. A good deal of correspondence had taken place with the Ministry of Labour, and they were in the position of trying to  find out what was really the best course to take in the interests of members concerned, and whether it was advisable to have a strike before Christmas or wait till after. The Union wanted to avert this action by doing all in its power to try to make common sense prevail.

He referred to Col. Baldwin Webb’s efforts to get the employers to meet them, and said that it now appeared that there was only one thing to do and that was to fight.

Mr. Clarke said the result of the recent ballot advocating strike action’ had been forwarded to the Ministry of Labour, who had asked the Union to defer any action until the Ministry had had the opportunity of getting into touch with tile various firms concerned, to see whether it was possible for them to get a changed point of view from the employers.

Firms’ Letters

The speaker then read copies of letters from the four firms concerned.

The copies had been forwarded to him, he said, from the Industrial Relationships Dept., Birmingham, and the writers pointed out that they were not prepared to meet and discuss the matter. One firm stated that it was a struggle to keep the works open, and another replied that “in face of the facts any threat of action by the men left them cold.”

The Union had made various proposals to obviate a stoppage of work, the speaker continued. They were just as conscious of the effects of a stoppage of work in that district as the managements of the firms were. There were two things open to the Union. They could declare a strike or they could fight the firms concerned.

He knew there was something to be said possibly for their geographical point of view, but the firms put this matter “out of court” if they were not prepared to accept, as the men were, the decision of an independent tribunal.

“Competition Not Co-operation”

The firms had mentioned their inability to pay extra wages. They met that type of argument in almost every tile works in the Midland Counties. The real reason, he alleged, was that the manufacturers in the trade instead of being prepared to co-operate to get reasonable prices for their products, preferred to compete with each other. In the North Staffordshire districts there were probably some 20 firms on which the Union had members, who complained that they were faced with severe competition, particularly from the Shropshire district.

They in Staffordshire claimed with justification that they were paying a standard wage which was considerably higher than was being paid in that district. The wages there were anything from a penny to twopence an hour higher than those in that district.

He advised them to review the position calmly as to whether they would take action now or defer it until after Christmas. He could appreciate all the complications of the position, and any course that they decided to take needed courage.

After the meeting had had discussions in private, it was stated that another meeting would be held in a fortnight’s time to consider the matter further,

A similar meeting was held the same evening at Madeley, where it was also decided to have a further meeting.

BROSELEY’S £8,800

SEWERAGE SCHEME

NO OBJECTION AT PUBLIC INQUIRY

A PUBLIC inquiry into the Wenlock Borough Council’s application to the Ministry of Health for sanction to borrow the sum of £8,800 for works of sewerage and sewage disposal at Broseley was held at the Town Hall, Broseley, on Wednesday, before Mr. F. G. Hill, M.C., M.Inst.C.E.

Among those present were the Mayor (Mr E. H. H. Shorting), Ald. A. A. Exley, Councillors T. W. Howells, C. R. Jones, W. E. Davies and E. D. Collins, Mr. F. W. Derry (Town Clerk), Dr. M. Gepp (medical officer), Mr. C. J. Thomas (sanitary inspector), Major A. H. S. Waters (consulting engineer), Mr. H. Mallinson (county sanitary inspector), and Mr. L. Hugh Milne, Swansea (representing the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries).

The Council’s Case

Mr. F. W. Derry (Town Clerk), presenting the Council’s case, said it was proposed that the loan of £8,800 should be spread over a period of thirty years, which would involve loan charges of £485, and the working expenses were estimated at £200 per annum.  The Broseley Sanitary committee, on whom the scheme would be charged, had a sufficient water supply, the loans in respect of which had been paid off, but another loan was contemplated for the sinking of a bore-hole at Beckbury with the object of further ensuring the Council’s water supplies from their water supply area.

The grounds for the sewerage scheme were: —There was no-sufficient system of sewage disposal in Broseley; the abandonment of privies and earth closets; the provision of sewage for housing schemes for the accommodation of the working classes.

Representatives of the Council had seen Ministry officials with regard to the question of the provision of sewerage in connection with the Council’s housing scheme, and the Ministry had advised the Council that any scheme of sewage disposal for the housing site should be such as to be capable of dealing with as much of the drainage area as naturally fell to the site of the proposed sewage disposal works and requested the Council to submit such a comprehensive scheme. Accordingly the committee instructed their consulting engineer, Major Waters to prepare the scheme.

The area proposed to be served by the scheme was roughly the eastern half of Broseley, which would gravitate to the intended disposal works. The scheme would provide immediately for a population of 1,720 persons and would also make provision for the Council’s proposed housing scheme of 80 houses and also for the 28 houses already erected by the Council. Provision was also made in the scheme for dealing with any future developments by private enterprise. In addition, the scheme included the Lady Forester Hospital, which was rather an important consideration.

It was not possible to obtain a rate in Broseley which would effectively deal with the sewage for the whole of the township of Broseley ,and the Council had accordingly submitted the scheme suggested by the Ministry, The site proposed for the treatment plant was situate in a field about ?0 yards due east of the centre of  High Street, Broseley, and a provisional contract had been entered to with the owner to acquire the necessary land for £150.

Application had been made to e County Council for a grant and they had replied asking for certain data to be completed which the Council would submit later the scheme had been approved by the Ministry.

Rate Involved

The estimated rate to cover the scheme, assuming they had no grant from the County Council, was 1s. 8d. No objection had been received to the scheme.

Replying to the Inspector, Mr. ??rry said he thought the County Council would make a grant as similar schemes in the county had received one. They would erect houses ultimately, and they proposed to put up 25 to 30 immediately.

Dr. M. Gepp, medical officer for the borough, said he considered the proposed site the most suitable they could find in the area. Such a scheme was absolutely necessary Broseley.

Mr. C. J. Thomas, sanitary inspector, said that 420 properties should be drained in the area if the scheme was adopted.

Major Waters submitted a detailed report on the scheme.

The Mayor, on behalf of the council, said the members of the Council were unanimously in favour of the scheme and he thought it would be of great advantage to the town.

The Inspector, who during the inquiry had expressed the view that the scheme should not exceed the amount stated, intimated that he intended to inspect the site selected, and he would report to the Ministry in due course.

BROSELEY

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY was observed at the Parish Church on Sunday evening, when about 60 members of the local branch of the British paraded under their chairman, Mr. C. T. Harrison, who was accompanied by Capt. E. D. Collins and Mr. T. W. Howells (vice-presidents). The special form of service was used, and the choir, under the direction of Mr. R. A. Yorke (organist and choirmaster), sang “The Supreme Sacrifice.” The Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector) conducted the service and preached the sermon.

BRITISH LEGION. — At a meeting of ladies interested in the work of the British Legion, held at the Town Hall, Broseley, under the auspices of Broseley British Legion Branch, a branch of the women’s section of the British Legion was formed on Wednesday. The chair was taken by Mr. Clapton, secretary of the local British Legion branch, in the unavoidable absence of his chairman, and the meeting was addressed by Mrs. G. H. Slater of the Midland Area Committee British Legion Women’s Section. Mrs. Whitmore was elected branch  chairman, Mrs. Ogilvie the hon. secretary, and Mrs. Goodall hon.  treasurer.

BRITISH LEGION DINNER

The annual dinner of the local branch of the British Legion was held at the Forester Arms on Monday.

Lord Forester (president) was in the chair, and was supported by Mr. C. T. Harrison (chairman), Major Rowland Hunt, Capt. E. D. Collins, Rev. C. S. Jackson. Dr. J. G. Boon, Dr. T. S. Hoy, Dr. S. W. O. Hoy, Professor Kelly (Benthall), Inspector J. H. Machin, Mr. T. W. Howells, Mr. P. W. Parr, Mr. W. S. Instone, Mr. R. Nicklin, Mr. J. Clapton (secretary), and about 70 members of the branch.

Major Rowland Hunt proposed the toast of “The Imperial Forces,” Mr. T. W. Howells responding.

Mr. E. C. S. White, who proposed the toast of the British Legion, commented favourably on the strength of the local branch. Mr. F. S. Francis responded.

The toast of “The president” was received with musical honours, being proposed by Dr. J. G. Boon, Lord Forester, replying, expressed his pleasure at being present and said one had always the unhappy feeling that the British Legion was bound to die out, but it was pleasing in this connection to see that the Broseley branch was gaining strength. While they should remember those who fell in the war, it was more important that they should remember those who came back and that was where the British Legion came in.

Mr. W. J. Richings proposed the toast of the hostess, Mrs. Smith.

During the evening a programme of entertainment was provided by Messrs. T. Gower (Bridgnorth), R. W. Picken, C. Hough, P. Heighway and T. Nock.

The arrangements tor the dinner were made by a sub-committee consisting of Mr. W. J. Ritchings, Mr. A. H. Wase and Mr. T. Goodall.

POLICE COURT

The Mayor, Mr. E. H. H. Shorting, made his first appearance on the Bench at Broseley Police Court on Tuesday, and was welcomed by Col. G. G. P. Hayward and Inspector J. H. Machin, on behalf of the police. The other magistrates on the Bench, in addition to the Mayor and Col. Hayward, were Maj.-Gen. H. D. O. Ward and Messrs. J. S. Barker and E. J. Exley.

Incident In Inn

An incident at the Boat Inn, Jackfield, was mentioned when Frank Taylor, The Werps, Jackfield, iron moulder, was charged with assault. — Ralph Roberts, 8, The Lloyds, Iron-Bridge, labourer, said he was sitting in the Boat Inn talking on the evening of Nov. 1 when defendant jumped up, came across the room and tried to strike him but was held back. Witness’s companion had ordered some beer and defendant picked up an ash-tray and threw it, breaking one of the glasses. He did not say a word to defendant and why he did it he (witness) did not know.  He denied that he made an objectionable remark to defendant. There were women in the room at the time.

Harry Balmforth, Coalport, said he was sitting next to Roberts in the room when defendant jumped up and tried to strike Roberts in the face, but missed him. He then picked up an ash-tray and threw it very viciously, but it missed Roberts. There were no words spoken between the defendant and Roberts. Witness’s glass was knocked on the floor and he got up and walked out. Asked if they were sober, witness replied that they were. Defendant was nimble enough on his feet, but he was not so good with his aim, he added.

Defendant, who pleaded “Not guilty,” said he had had about three glasses of beer, but he was  not drunk. Roberts and Balmforth were talking about condemned houses and he (defendant) said they could not get rent for condemned houses. Roberts then made a remark and he (defendant) rushed at him to hit him, but he did not do so. Someone caught, hold of him. He tried to hit him with an ash-tray, Jack Evans, Victoria Road, Madeley, corroborated defendant’s evidence. He said that when defendant went to strike Roberts, he (witness) caught hold of him.

Defendant was fined 10s. and 5s. costs.

6th November 1937

Shirlett Diamond Wedding

PICTURE

MANY congratulations were extended to Mr. and Mrs. Francis Hayward, of 62, Shirlett, near Broseley, on Wednesday on completing 60 years of married life.

Both have reached the age of 80, and are enjoying the best of health.

They were married in London on Nov. 3, 1877, and have lived in Shropshire nearly all their lives.

Mr. Hayward is a member of a family well known in the Montford Bridge district, and is the youngest son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Hayward, formerly of Broomfield, Montford Bridge.

A keen Methodist, Mr. Francis Hayward was well known as a local preacher, and for about 30 years he was engaged in the Hadnall circuit.

“A Human Scarecrow”

He started work at the age of nine, and was employed at Ensdon Farm, Montford Bridge, as a rook minder, for which he was paid 1s. a week.

“I used to scare the rooks away”, he explained in an interview. “I was what you might call a human scarecrow”, he added with a twinkle in his eye.

He has held various other positions, including those of footman, coachman and gardener, and since he went to live in a little thatched cottage on the Willey estate—some 30 years ago—he was a woodman on the estate, until he retired some 10 years ago.

He has worked for three Lords Forester, and can recall five holders of the title.

Mr. and Mrs. Hayward have a family of five sons and seven daughters, and there are also 38 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. All the sons served in the war.

BROSELEY

AN INNOVATION. — A pleasant time was spent by about 70 people at a social evening held in the Town Hall on Wednesday and organised by the church social committee. Lady Forester, who was accompanied by her sister and Lord Forester, acted,  as  hostess and the social took the form of a conversazione, all joining in to make the function, which was the first of its kind held, an enjoyable and extremely friendly affair. During the evening a programme was provided by the Misses. Barbara Heas, Hazel Price and Edith Buckett (accompanist),  and Messrs Harold Francis and Bryan Jones, all of Shrewsbury. Refreshments were in the charge of the ladies of the social committee, who were also responsible for the pretty decorative effect. Mr. C. Davies, secretary of the social Committee, made the arrangements and the proceeds are to be devoted to decorating a room in the Town Hall for the library, Among those present in addition to the names mentioned were Lady Norah More, Mr. E. H. H. Shorting (Mayor-elect), Mr. and Mrs. H. Welch. Mr. W. T. Howells, Mr. and Mrs. R. Nicklin, Mr. and Mrs. Andrews, the Misses Potts, Mrs. R. A. Instone, and the Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector of Broseley). Assistance was given at the door by Mr. Joe Jones.

13th November 1937

PREPARING FOR NEW BRIDGE AT IRON-BRIDGE

ALTHOUGH the construction of a new bridge at Iron-Bridge has been deferred for the present, the Roads and Bridges Committee reported to the Salop County Council on Saturday that the acquisition of such of the land and property as would eventually be required, particularly that in the island block on Tontine Hill was being proceeded with.

The following property which was included in the schedule of property to be acquired compulsorily, had been acquired by agreement:—Grocer’s shop and dwelling-house and florist’s chemist’s shop and  dwelling-house, £650; confectioner’s shop and flat over, £2.250; cottages, £275.

This property comprised practically the whole of the island block of property at the northern of the old Iron-Bridge.

BROSELEY

DANCE. — About 150 were present at a dance at the Town Hall on Nov. 5, organised by the Sunday School of the parish. Mr. George Roberts was M.C., and refreshments were served under the supervision of Miss H. C. Potts, assisted by teachers. Mr. Gerald Oakley was responsible for the arrangements made, and the proceeds were devoted to the physical culture club, which has recently been formed in the town.

PARISH CHURCH SOCIAL. — The fortnightly social run in connection with the Parish Church, took place at the Town Hall on Saturday, when a company of over 100 people spent a jolly evening. The first half of the programme was devoted mainly to the children, for whom games were arranged, while dancing was later indulged in. with the Rector, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, acting as M.C. The various competition winners during the evening were Miss Bryce, Miss Joan Smith and Miss Edith Smith. The arrangements for the social were carried out by Mrs. W. R. Pountney, Mrs. W. Ward, Mrs. A. Cross and Miss A. Lloyd, who were also responsible for serving refreshments.

COUNTY COUNCIL AND CHURCH STREET SCHEME.—At a meeting of the Salop County Council on Saturday, the Roads and Bridges Committee referred in their report to the decision made by the Council in February last, to eliminate a sharp curve in Church Street, Broseley, as the result of the vicar of Broseley having generously offered, subject to the approval of the Ecclesiastical Commissioners, to allow the Council to demolish part of the vicarage and some of its outhouses, which occupied the inner side of the curve without requiring alternative accommodation or compensatory works. It now appeared, the committee stated, that payment of is. a yard for the land and the execution of numerous compensatory works, the cost of which was roughly estimated at £500, were required. In view of the altered conditions, the committee saw no reasonable alternative but to recommend that the scheme be not carried out. The Council agreed to this.

JACKFIELD

COALFORD SUNDAY SCHOOL. —The monthly Pleasant Sunday Afternoon service was held on Sunday in the schoolroom, arranged by Mrs. E. Peake and Mr. W. Gauton (teachers). Miss Barbara Ayres presided and an address was given by Mr. J. Pumford (superintendent of the Sunday school), the devotional part being conducted by Mr. W. H. Poole (assistant superintendent). Mr. G. Stewart was at the organ. Choruses were rendered by the following scholars:— Joan Pumford, Alice Cleobury, Elsie Stewart, John Owen, Lawrence Beech, Graham Dickens and Roy Wilkes. During the service Mrs. J. Evans received donations for the National Children’s Home and Orphanage.—On Monday a social was held, a pleasant evening being spent in games, etc. Dennis Edwards contributed to the programme with a recitation. Mr. R. Colley presided, and the following teachers were responsible for the arranging of the programme and serving of refreshments:—Mrs. W. H. Poole, Mrs. W. Anderson. Mrs. F. Peake, Mrs. J. Evans. Miss E. Stokes, and Messrs. J. Pumford. W. H. Poole. J. Evans and G. Stewart. The proceeds were for the Sunday school funds.

BROSELEY

LATE MR. J. WOOLLAM.—The funeral took place at the cemetery on Wednesday of Mr. John Woollam, 6, Fox Lane, whose death occurred rather suddenly on the previous Friday at the age of 57. Mr. Woollam, who was a native of Ellesmere, had lived in the town nearly all his life and was particularly well-known among the business people. He had been connected with the bakery trade for 40 years and for over half that time he had owned a bakery and confectionery business in Church St., retiring five years ago. At the funeral service the Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector) officiated and the chief mourners were the widow; Mr. and Mrs. F. Hotchkins, Ponciau, Wrexham (brother-in-law and sister); Mr. and Mrs. T. Luke, Rhostyllen (brother-in-law and sister); Mrs. V. Steen, Rhostyllen (niece); Mr. H. Luke, Rhostyllen (nephew); Mr. and Mrs. Lovett, Wellington (brother-in-law and sister-in-law); Mrs. M. Mason (sister-in-law); Mr. Dennis Mason and Mr. W. Ball. Others present included Messrs. F. Powell, T. Bennett, A. Pountney, A. Garbett, P. Hartshorn, C. Thomas, T. Wedge and J. Wilkes. The bearers were Messrs. A. Fielding, W. Ward, F. Shaw.  W. Haynes, J. Casey and G. Oakley.

POPPY DAY. — Arrangements were made by Mrs. A. Ogilvie and Mr. E. C. S. White, who had the assistance of a large number of helpers. The sellers who had charge of collecting boxes on Wednesday were: For Willey, Mrs. Hugh Welch; Linley, Mrs. Rowland Hunt; Jackfield, Mrs. W. Price; Benthall, Mrs. G. Jones and Mrs: G. Whitmore; Broseley, Mrs. Ogilvie, Mrs. C. Hall, Mrs. M. Molineux, Mrs. J. Aston, Mrs. C. Harrison, Mrs. J. Harris, Mrs. Towler, Miss Jean Clapton, Miss M. Gainham, Miss 0. Brookes and Mr. J. Sankey.

ARMISTICE DAY.— At the open-air service held near the War Memorial the Rector of Broseley, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, said special prayers and gave a brief address.

MOTHERS’ UNION. — The annual social took place at the Town Hall on Wednesday. The proceedings opened with a hymn and a prayer said by the Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector). An address was given by Mrs. J. Broadhurst, the enrolling member. The programme was contributed to by Miss Joan Smith and Miss Muriel Marsh (pianoforte solos), Mrs. D. Smith and Miss Annie Lloyd (songs), and Mrs. J. Jones, Mrs. Hough. and Master J. Benbow (recitations): The following members took part in the Mothers’ Union play entitled “Violets”: Mrs. J. Jones, Mrs. Ward, Mrs. Benbow, Mrs. Watkins, Mrs. W. Davis, Mrs. Archer, Mrs. A. Jones, Mrs. T. Goodall and Mrs. Clapton. The accompanists for the soloists were Miss May Potts and Mrs. W. Davis. During an interval the rector gave a brief talk and refreshments were afterwards served by the committee members. The arrangements for the event were in the hands of Mrs. Broadhurst.

PARISH CHURCH. — At the patronal festival services on Sunday, conducted by .the rector, the Rev. C. S. Jackson, the choir sang the anthem “He shall wipe away all tears,” the quartet being by Messrs. F. S. Francis and W. Price (tenors), A. Garbett (alto) and R. Yorke (bass). The lessons were read by Mr. Gerald Oakley and Mr. R. A. Yorke was at the organ.

BENTHALL (Broseley)

DEATH OF MR. T. WILDE. — The death occurred on Sunday after a short illness, of Mr. Thos. Wilde, who had completed over years in the employ of Messrs. Maw and Co., Jackfield. Mr. Wilde, who was 72, commenced work at the age of 13 at the old Benthall Works, and he was employed as a fireman for the greater part of his service. — The funeral took place on Tuesday, the Rev. R. H. Osborne (Madeley Wood Methodist Church) conducting a service in Benthall Church before the burial in the new cemetery. The family mourners were Mr. William Wilde, Ruabon (brother). Mr. G; Wilde (brother), Mr.-, A. Wilde (brother), Mr. J. Wilcox; Birmingham (brother-in-law), Mr. F. W. Davies (son-in-law), Mr. O. Bowen, Cefn, Mr. J. Ledger, Mr. L. Davies, Ruabon, and Mr. J. Bowen, Cefn (nephews), and Mr. E. Humphries. Others present included Mrs. F. C. Howells (Field House; Broseley), Messrs. M. Davis, C. Davis, C. Thomas, J. Beaman, O. Jones, C. Jones, G. Overhand and J. Meredith. Members of Mr. Wilde’s Lodge of Foresters attended and the funeral oration was read at the graveside by Mr. J. Roper. The bearers were Messrs. Dromgole, A. O. Jones, J. Cross, N. Taylor. G. Whitmore, P. Symonds, W. Harris and E. Molyneux.

20th November 1937

TILE WORKERS AND WAGE DISPUTE

MEETINGS AT BROSELEY AND MADELEY

STRIKE POSSIBLE-BEFORE OR AFTERCHRISTMAS?

MR. J. W. Clarke, Midlands divisional organiser of the Transport and General Workers’ Union, and who has recently been elected Mayor of Burton, addressed a meeting of tile workers at Broseley, on Monday in connection with the wages dispute.

Mr. A. Flavell, Wolverhampton, district organiser of the Union, presided, and emphasised the importance of considering carefully what steps the members were going to take. A good deal of correspondence had taken place with the Ministry of Labour, and they were in the position of trying to find out what was really the best course to take in the interests of members concerned, and whether it was advisable to have a strike before Christmas or wait till after. The Union wanted to avert this action by doing all in its power to try to make common sense prevail.

He referred to Col. Baldwin-Webb’s efforts to get the employers to meet them, and said that it now appeared that there was only one thing to do and that was to fight.

Mr. Clarke said the result of the recent ballot advocating strike action had been forwarded to the Ministry of Labour, who had asked the Union to defer any action until the Ministry had had the opportunity of getting into touch with tile various firms concerned, to see whether it was possible for them to get a changed point of view from the employers.

Firms’ Letters

The speaker then read copies of letters from the four firms concerned.

The copies had been forwarded to him, he said, from the Industrial Relationships Dept., Birmingham, and the writers pointed out that they were not prepared to meet and discuss the matter. One firm stated that it was a struggle to keep the works open, and another replied that “in face of the facts any threat of action by the men left them cold.”

The Union had made various proposals to obviate a stoppage of work, the speaker continued. They were just as conscious of the effects of a stoppage of work in that district as the managements of the firms were. There were two things open to the Union. They could declare a strike; or they could fight the firms concerned.

He knew there was something to be said possibly for their geographical point of view, but the firms put this matter “out of court” if they were not prepared to accept, as the men were, the decision of an independent tribunal.

“Competition Not Co-operation”

The firms had mentioned their inability to pay extra wages. They met that type of argument in almost every tile works in the Midland Counties. The real reason, he alleged, was that the manufacturers in the trade instead of being prepared to co-operate to get reasonable prices for their products, preferred to compete with each other. In the North Staffordshire districts there were probably some 20 firms on which the Union had members, who complained that they were faced with severe competition, particularly from the Shropshire district.

They in Staffordshire claimed with justification that they were paying a standard wage which was considerably higher than was being paid in that district. The wages there were anything from a penny to twopence an hour higher than those in that district.

He advised them to review the position calmly as to whether they would take action now or defer it until after Christmas. He could appreciate all the complications of the position, and any course that they decided to take needed courage.

After the meeting had had discussions in private, it was stated that another meeting would be held in a fortnight’s time to consider the matter further,

A similar meeting was held the same evening at Madeley, where it was also decided to have a further meeting.

BROSELEY’S £8,800 SEWERAGE SCHEME

NO OBJECTION AT PUBLIC INQUIRY

A PUBLIC inquiry into the Wenlock Borough Council’s application to the Ministry of Health for sanction to borrow the sum of £8,800 for works of sewerage and sewage disposal at Broseley was held at the Town Hall, Broseley, on Wednesday, before Mr. F. G. Hill, M.C., M.Inst.C.E.

Among those present were the Mayor E. H. H. Shorting), Ald. A. A. Exley, Councillors T. W. Howells, C. R. Jones, W. E. Davies and E. D. Collins, Mr. F. W. Derry, (Town Clerk), Dr. M. Gepp (medical officer), Mr. C. J. Thomas, (sanitary inspector), Major A. H. S. Waters (consulting engineer), Mr. H. Mallinson (county sanitary inspector), and Mr. L. Hugh Milne, Swansea (representing the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries).

The Council’s Case

Mr. F. W. Derry (Town Clerk), presenting the Council’s case, said it was proposed that the loan of £8,800 should be spread over a period of thirty years, which would involve loan charges of £485, and the working expenses *were estimated at £200 per annum. The Broseley Sanitary committee, on whom the scheme would be charged, had a sufficient water supply, the loans in respect of which had been paid off, but another loan was contemplated for the sinking of a bore-hole at Beckbury with the object of further ensuring the Council’s water supplies from their water supply area.

The grounds for the sewerage scheme were:— There was no sufficient system of sewage disposal in Broseley; the abandonment of privies and earth closets; the provision of sewage for housing schemes for the accommodation of the working classes.

Representatives of the Council had seen Ministry officials with regard to the question of the provision of sewerage in connection with the Council’s housing scheme, and the Ministry had advised the Council that any scheme of sewage disposal for the housing site should be such as to be capable of dealing with as much of the drainage area as naturally fell to the site of the proposed sewage disposal works and requested the Council to submit such a comprehensive scheme. Accordingly the committee instructed their consulting engineer, Major Waters to prepare the scheme.

The area proposed to be served by the scheme was roughly the eastern half of Broseley, which would gravitate to the intended disposal works. The scheme would provide immediately for a population of 1,720 persons and would also make provision for the Council’s proposed housing scheme of 80 houses and also for the 28 houses already erected by the Council. Provision was also made in the scheme for dealing with any future developments by private enterprise. In addition, the scheme included the Lady Forester Hospital, which was rather an important consideration

It was not possible to obtain a rate in Broseley which would effectively deal with the sewage for the whole of the township of Broseley ,and the Council had accordingly submitted the scheme suggested by the Ministry, The place proposed for the treatment plant was situate in a field about 100 yards due east of the centre of High Street, Broseley, and a provisional contract had been entered to with the owner to acquire the necessary land for £150.

Application had been made to the County Council for a grant and they had replied asking for certain data to be completed rich the Council would submit after the scheme had been approved by the Ministry.

Rate Involved

The estimated rate to cover the scheme, assuming they had no grant from the County Council, was 1s. 8d. No objection had been received to the scheme.

Replying to the Inspector, Mr. Norry said he thought the County council would make a grant as similar schemes in the county had received one. They would erect houses ultimately, and they opposed to put up 25 to 30 immediately.

Dr. M. Gepp, medical officer for the borough, said he considered the proposed site the most suitable they could find in the area. Such;a scheme was absolutely necessary for Broseley.

Mr. C. J. Thomas, sanitary inspector, said that 420 properties could be drained in the area if e scheme was adopted.

Major Waters submitted a detailed report on the scheme.

The Mayor, on behalf of the council, said the members of the Council were unanimously in favour of the scheme and he thought it would be of great advantage to the town.

The Inspector, who during the inquiry had expressed the view that the scheme should not exceed the amount stated, intimated that he intended to inspect the site selected, and he would report to the Ministry in due course.

BROSELEY

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY was observed at the Parish Church on Sunday evening, when about 60 members of the local branch of the British paraded under their chairman, Mr. C. T. Harrison, who was accompanied by Capt. E. D. Collins and Mr. T. W.  Howells (vice-presidents). The special form of service was used, and the choir, under the direction of Mr. R. A. Yorke (organist and choirmaster), sang “The Supreme Sacrifice.” The Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector) conducted the service and preached the sermon.

BRITISH LEGION. — At a meeting of ladies interested in the work of the British Legion, held at the Town Hall, Broseley, under the auspices of Broseley British Legion Branch, a branch of the women’s section of the British Legion was formed on Wednesday. The chair was taken by Mr. Clapton, secretary of the local British Legion branch, in the unavoidable absence of his chairman, and the meeting was addressed by Mrs. G. H. Slater of the Midland Area Committee British Legion Women’s Section. Mrs. Whitmore was elected branch chairman, Mrs. Ogilvie the hon. secretary, and Mrs. Goodall hon. treasurer.

BRITISH LEGION DINNER

The annual dinner of the local branch of the British Legion was held at the Forester Arms on Monday.

Lord Forester (president) was in the chair, and was supported by Mr. C. T. Harrison (chairman), Major Rowland Hunt, Capt. E. D. Collins, Rev. C. S.  Jackson. Dr. J. G. Boon, Dr. T. S. Hoy, Dr. S. W. O. Hoy, Professor Kelly (Benthall), Inspector J. H. Machin, Mr. T. W. Howells, Mr. P. W. Parr, Mr. W. S. Instone, Mr. R. Nicklin, Mr. J. Clapton (secretary), and about 70 members of the branch.

Major Rowland Hunt proposed the toast of Imperial Forces, Mr. T. W. Howells responding.

Mr. E. C. S. White, who proposed the toast of the British Legion, commented favourably on the strength of the local branch. Mr. F. S. Francis responded.

The toast of “The president” was received with musical honours, being proposed by Dr. J. G. Boon. Lord Forester, replying, expressed his pleasure at being present and said one had always the unhappy feeling that the British Legion was bound to die out, but it was pleasing in this connection to see that the Broseley branch was gaining strength. While they should remember those who fell in the war, it was more important that they should remember those who came back and that was where the British Legion came in.

Mr. W. J. Richings proposed the toast of the hostess, Mrs. Smith.

During the evening a programme of entertainment was provided by Messrs. T. Gower (Bridgnorth), R. W. Picken, C. Hough, P. Heighway and T. Nock.

The arrangements tor the dinner were made by a sub-committee consisting of Mr. W. J. Ritchings, Mr. A. H. Wase and Mr. T. Goodall.

POLICE COURT

The Mayor, Mr. E. H. H. Shorting, made his first appearance on the Bench at Broseley Police Court on Tuesday, and was welcomed by Col. G. G. P. Hayward and Inspector J. H. Machin, on behalf of the police. The other magistrates on the Bench, in addition to the Mayor and Col. Hayward, were Maj.-Gen. H. D. O. Ward and Messrs. J. S. Barker and E. J. Exley.

Incident In Inn

An incident at the Boat Inn, Jackfield, was mentioned when Frank Taylor, The Werps, Jackfield, iron moulder, was charged with assault. — Ralph Roberts, 8, The Lloyds, Iron-Bridge, labourer, said he was sitting in the Boat Inn talking on the evening of Nov. 1 when defendant jumped up, came across the room and tried to strike him but was held back. Witness’s companion had ordered some beer and defendant picked up an ash-tray and threw it, breaking one of the glasses. He did not say a word to defendant and why he did it he (witness) did not know.  He denied that he made an objectionable remark to defendant. There were women in the room at the time.

Harry Balmforth, Coalport, said he was sitting’ next to Roberts in the room when defendant jumped up and tried to strike Roberts in the face, but missed him. He then picked up an ash-tray and threw it very viciously, but it missed Roberts. There were no words spoken between the defendant and Roberts. Witness’s glass was knocked on the floor and he got up and walked out. Asked if they were sober, witness replied that they were. Defendant was nimble enough on his feet, but he was not so good with his aim, he added.

Defendant, who pleaded “Not guilty,” said he had had about three glasses of beer, but he was not drunk. Roberts and Balmforth were talking about condemned houses and he (defendant) said they could not get rent for condemned houses. Roberts then made a remark and he (defendant) rushed at him to hit him, but he did not do so. Someone caught, hold of him. He tried to hit-him with an ash-tray,

Jack Evans, Victoria Road, Madeley, corroborated defendant’s evidence. He said that when defendant went to strike Roberts, he (witness) caught hold of him.

Defendant was fined 10s. and 5s. costs.

JACKFIELD

FIRE.—An outbreak of fire occurred at the Ladywood Clay Works on Wednesday morn and Capt. P. Davies, of the Iron Bridge Fire Brigade, who was called to the scene, found the engine house ablaze. The fire caused an explosion through the crude oil pipes behind the engine becoming overheated, but there was little damage done to the machinery. The engine house was completely burnt out, but thanks to the helpers who were on the spot shortly after the outbreak occurred, the fire was prevented from spreading.

TENNIS CLUB EFFORT.— To help to pay off the debt on the court now in course of construction, the newly formed tennis club organised a whist drive and dance at the Parish Room on Wednesday. There were 14 tables for whist, and the number of people present increased to over 100 for the dance. The M.C. for whist was Mr. Cyril Hughes, and the prizes were presented by Mrs. F. J. R. Mason, wife of the rector. The whist winners were: 1, Mrs. N. Hughes; 2, Miss P. Jones; 3, Miss A. Gallier; consolation, Mrs. George. Coalport; highest score first half, Miss P. Jones; 1, Mrs. E. Poole; 2, Mrs. Smith, Queen’s Head, Iron-Bridge; 3, Mrs. Sykes (all playing as gent.); special prize, Mr. G. Rogers. For the dance that followed Mr. F. Clay was M.C., and the lucky spot winners were Miss Winnie Goodall and Mr. Ken Evans. The catering was undertaken by the lady members of the club, who were assisted by St. Mary’s catering committee. The secretarial arrangements were made by Mr. G. E. Britton.

COALPORT

LATE MR. C. OAKES. — The death occurred on Saturday, at the age of 63, of Mr. Cecil Oakes, at his home, Gitchfield Cottages, after an illness of about four years. He was a native of Coalport and had been employed in the clay industry of the district practically the whole of his life. At the time of his retirement, through ill-health he was engaged with Messrs. Exley and Sons at their Gitchfield roofing tile works. He was one of the oldest members of the Ancient Order of Foresters, Coal-port Lodge. — The funeral took place on Tuesday at Broseley cemetery, and the service was held in the cemetery chapel, the officiating clergyman being the Rev. F. J. R. Mason (Rector of Jackfield). The bearers, old workmates, were .Messrs. P. Clarke, W. Edwards, E. Bowen, E. Groves, H. Evans and G. Davies. The family mourners included Mr. Harry Hughes (stepson), Mr. Harry Woodward, Weston-super-Mare (stepson-in-law), Mr. John. Oakes, Coalport, Mr. Greville Oakes and Mr. Edwin Oakes, Madeley (brothers), Mrs. Bacon, Welshampton (sister), Mr. and Mrs. R. Ashwood, Broseley (brother-in-law and sister), Mr. Stanley Oakes, Madeley (nephew), and Miss Lillie Oakes, Welshampton (niece). Six members of the Friendly Society attended, and the Foresters’ oration was read by Mr. E. Bowen at the graveside.

27th November 1937

BROSELEY,

POPPY DAY RESULT. — The total collected on Poppy Day for Broseley district which included Benthall, Willey and Jackfield, was £25 17s. The individual collectors were Mrs. Ogilvie, Mrs. Rowland Hunt (Linley). Mrs. C. Hall, Mrs. J. Aston, Mrs. H. Welch (Willey), Miss O. Brooks, Mrs. Molineux, Mr. E. C. S. White, Mr. J. Sankey, Mrs. G. Jones (Benthall), Miss M. Gainham, Mrs. G. Whitmore (Benthall), Mrs. C. Harrison, Miss J. Clapton, Mrs. Towler, Mrs. J. Harris, Miss Instone (Jackfield) (per Mrs. W. Price).

BROTHERHOOD.—The monthly meeting was held in the Town Hall on Sunday afternoon, when there was a large gathering. The Rev. C. S. Jackson (chaplain) presided and led in prayer, afterwards reading the lesson. The speaker was Mr. H. P. Gray, of Shrewsbury, who gave an interesting talk on “Religion and Drama”. During the afternoon a solo was pleasingly rendered by Mr. F. W. Davies (tenor), of Benthall. A vote of thanks to the speaker and to Mr. Davies was proposed by Mr. T. Goodall.

LATE MRS. M. TAYLOR. — The funeral took place at the Parish Church on Saturday of Mrs. Mary Taylor, who died on the previous Wednesday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. G. W. Tonkiss, Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury. Mrs. Taylor, who was 72, was the widow of Mr. Alfred Taylor, a well-known plumber and decorator in the town, who died about 10 years ago. She was a native of Much Wenlock, and when living in Broseley she was connected with the Parish Church, being a member of the Mothers’ Union. The Rev. F. J. R. Mason (rector of Jackfield) officiated at the funeral and the chief mourners were Mrs. G. W. Tonkiss. Shrewsbury (daughter); Mrs. E. Hanna, Isle of Wight (daughter); Mr. and Mrs. G. Corfield, Dunge Grove, Broseley (son-in-law and daughter); Master G. Alfred Corfield (grandson); Mr. Arthur Taylor, Coalbrookdale (nephew); Miss G. Taylor, Rudgewood, Broseley (niece); Mrs. Fred Thomas (The Marsh, Much Wenlock) and Miss Annie Corfield (Barrow). Others present included Mr. Hinsley Evans (Coalport), Mr. W. Edge, Mrs. T. Jones (Shifnal), Mrs. A. Tonkiss (Broseley), Mrs. K. Brazier (Broseley) and Mrs. Broadhurst and Mrs. J. Jones (representing the Mothers’ Union). The bearers were Messrs. John Hill, James Hill, A. Tonkiss and F. Oliver.

MAYOR’S SUNDAY

The new Mayor (Mr. E. H. H. Shorting) attended divine service at the Parish Church on Sunday morning, being accompanied by fellow members of the Wenlock Borough Council, and representatives of various bodies and other prominent people. A procession was formed at the Town Hall, headed by the Jackfield Silver Prize Band (under Bandmaster W. Ellis) and consisted of the Broseley Fire Brigade, under Mr. J. Gittins, the Iron-Bridge and Madeley Fire Brigade, under Mr. P. Davies, the Police, who acted as mace and stave bearers, under Supt. A. J. Ridgway, the Mayor, Town Clerk (Mr. F. W. Derry), Aldermen W. Roberts, W. G. Dyas, A. A. Exley and T. H. Thompson Councillors O. D. Murphy, E. D. Collins, T. W. Howells, P. W. Parr, W. E. Davies, C. R. Jones, C. R. H. Kane, A. Brickhowell, J. Lloyd. E. Hands. E. S. Owen, E. E. Bennett, J. Jesse. R. A. Jones, A. Parrock, C. Powell, F. H. Fowler and J. F. Richards; Mr. D. Fergusson (Assistant Town Clerk), Mr. A. H. Thorn-Pudsey (Magistrates’ Clerk), Mr. F. Richards (Surveyor), Mr. C. J. Thomas (Sanitary Inspector), Mr. A. O. Callear (Water Engineer), Mr. F. R. Cottrell, Lloyds Bank (treasurer), Mr. J. H. Grainger (auditor).

Others present included the Mayor of Bridgnorth (Mr. .H. E Whitney) and the Town Clerk (Mr. R. Elwin Price), Mr. J. Fox-Davies. Mr. E. C. S. White, the Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector of Broseley), Iron-Bridge Territorials under 2nd Lieut. K. R. Jemmett, Broseley branch, British Legion, under Mr. C. T. Harrison (chairman), Iron-bridge Division, St. John Ambulance Brigade, under Supt. F. Hill, Nursing Division, under Mrs. F. M. Preece, Madeley Boy Scouts, under Mr. R. M. Cowdell, and 1st Jack-field St. Mary’s Girl Guides, under Miss W. Perkins (capt.) and Miss E. Perkins (lieut.)

The service was conducted by the rector and included the anthems “Let Thy Hand be Strengthened” and “Thou wilt keep him” a tenor solo, “Great Lord of Life” being rendered by Mr. R. Francis. Mr. R. A. Yorke (organist) directed the choir. The rector preached on the text, “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and all these things shall be added unto you.” He commented on the problems and difficulties which faced us at the present time and said if they were to be overcome it would be by co-operative means rather than through individual effort.

DEATH OF HON. C. WELD-FORESTER

THE Hon. Charles Cecil Orlando Weld-Forester, uncle          of Lord Forester, Willey Park, Broseley, and brother of the late Lord Forester, died after an operation in London on Tuesday.

The eldest surviving son of the fifth Baron Forester, he had served as a lieutenant in the Shropshire Yeomanry Cavalry. He was born in 1869.

The funeral takes place to-day (Saturday) at Cheriton, Kent.

4th December 1937

INTERESTING WEDDING AT
BARROW CHURCH

LORD and Lady Forester were present at the wedding at Barrow Church, Much Wenlock, on Saturday, of Miss Violet Joan Griffiths and Trooper Ronald Charles Russell, of the Royal Horse Guards.

The bride, who had been employed as a nurse at Willey Hall, is the youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. Griffiths, of 9, Posenhall, Broseley. The bridegroom, who is batman to Lord Forester, is the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. C. Russell, of Merstham, Surrey.

The wedding was of a military character, the bridegroom, best man and groomsman all wearing the striking uniform of the Blues.

The service was fully choral, the hymns sung being “Lead us, Heavenly Father, lead us”, and “O Perfect Love”, the organist being Mr. W. Wase.

The officiating ministers were the Rev. L. J. B. Snell, rector of Holy Trinity, Hereford, and formerly rector of Willey, and the Rev. W. G. Beale (rector).

Given away by her father, the bride wore a dress of white satin, with hat and shoes to match, with wreath of orange blossoms and lace veil and carried a bouquet of white chrysanthemums.

The chief bridesmaid was Miss Olive Griffiths (sister of the bride), who was attired in red crepe-de-Chine, with hat and shoes to match, and who carried a bouquet of cream and bronze chrysanthemums. She also wore a gold pendant, the gift of the bridegroom. The two small attendants, the Misses Elsie and Margery Jones, had pink crepe-de-Chine dresses, with hats and shoes to tone, and wore posies of chrysanthemums. Both received gold brooches from the bridegroom. Masters Cecil Griffiths (brother of the bride) and Bertie Timmins (cousin of the bride) acted as pages. They were dressed in white silk blouses and wore gold tie-pins, the gifts of the bridegroom.

Trooper H. Islow, of Bilston, was best man, and Trooper C. Gittings, of Broseley, groomsman.

As the couple left the church a horseshoe was presented to the bride by Master Alan Jones. A photograph of themselves was also presented to the bride and bridegroom by the Hon. Christine and the Hon. Juliette, daughters of Lord and Lady Forester.

The reception was held at Willey Hall and was given by Lord and Lady Forester, about 50 guests being present. Lord Forester proposed the health of the bride and bridegroom.

The honeymoon was spent in London.

A large number of wedding presents was received, and included household linen from Lord and Lady Forester and an eiderdown from the Dowager Lady Forester.

BROSELEY

DISTRICT COUNCIL AND ROAD
REPAIRS

At the monthly meeting of the Broseley District Council on Wednesday, Ald. J. Nicklin was re-elected chairman, and Ald. A. A. Exley vice-chairman.

The surveyor (Mr. T. Richards) reported that the cost of piping in the Speeds Lane section of the Benthall Brook would be £172 or £1 a yard. It was agreed that the surveyor proceed with this work.

Reference was again made to suggested road repairs at Ball’s Lane and Dark Lane, which would cost £820 and £250 respectively.—Mr. T. R. Jones said he had recently seen Dark Lane and he thought it was in a far better condition than he had expected. There were plenty of places in Duke St. in a worse condition in his opinion. He suggested that they spend £100 on both Ball’s Lane and Dark Lane, which should last for two years.—Mr. W. E. Davis said he thought Ball’s Lane was impracticable as far as traffic was concerned. It was too narrow and not fit for motor traffic.—Mr. W. T. Howells said they would shortly have to give consideration to Dark Lane because of their housing site there. If they repaired it now it would get churned up with the heavy traffic. With regard to Ball’s Lane he suggested that they defer the matter for the time being.— Mr. E. D. Collins moved that Dark Lane be repaired after their houses had been erected.—Replying to Mr. P. W. Parr, the surveyor said it was not proposed to make Dark Lane wider.—Mr. Parr contended that in that case it was a waste of money to repair the road. What was the use of the road if two vehicles could not pass? He disagreed with the surveyor that the existing width of the road would allow vehicles to pass.—Mr. Jones proposed, and Mr. Collins seconded, that £100 be spent on repair work to the lower end of Ball’s Lane. This, however, was lost, it being decided to defer the matter of Ball’s Lane and Dark Lane until the end of the financial year in March.

At a meeting of the Burial Board held immediately afterwards. Ald. Exley was appointed chairman.

JACKFIELD

SMOKING CONCERT. — The Boat Inn Bowling Club held smoking concert at the Boat Inn on Monday. Some sixty people were present, with Mr. Cyril E. Leach in the chair. Mr. W. M. Ridgwell, Conservative Agent for the Division, deputised for Col. Baldwin-Webb, M.P., who was unable to attend, and he presented the Lichfield Cup to Mr. J. Smallman and prizes to Mr. A. Colley and L. Bowen, the runners-up, and to Mr. R. George for the best average. An entertainment was contributed by Mr. and Mrs. Hadley, Mr. H. C. Burton, Mr. E. Turstham, Mr. and Mrs. T. Wilde and Mr. H. Gill. Mr. R. Smith also gave medleys on his piano-accordion, and the accompanist was Mrs. E. Hadley. A happy evening was terminated by community singing.

EMPLOYER, FINED.—A fine of £1 was imposed, at Broxton (Cheshire) Police Court this week, on Mrs. Susie Harrington, Ladywood, Jackfield, who was charged with permitting John Ernest Reed, of Ludlow, to drive a lorry, the tyres of which were not free from defect on Sept. 6. Reed was also fined £1 for driving the vehicle.

MAN’S FALL DOWN 80 Ft WELL
TERRIFYING EXPERIENCE AT
BENTHALL
RESCUED WITH ROPES

A TERRIFYING experience befell Mr. J. Floyer Benthall, of Benthall Hall, Broseley, on Wednesday morning.

It is understood that he was inspecting an old disused stone well near to the Hall when he had the misfortune to fall down it—a drop of about 80 ft. It was not until some time later that his plight was discovered by Mr. George Thomas, the head gardener, who immediately went for help.

Some ropes were obtained from Mr. J. Evans, who lives nearby, but these were found to be too short, and further lengths of rope were fetched from Broseley.

Lowered Down Well

By this time, Mr. J. Rowley, of Hungerdale Farm, Benthall, had arrived on the scene, with others, and at great risk to himself he was lowered down the well by means of joined lengths of rope.

He found Mr. Benthall in about four feet of water and mud, and after attaching a second rope to him Mr. Rowley was raised to the surface. Then Mr. Benthall was hauled to safety.

He was unconscious, but it appeared that he was not badly hurt. He was immediately taken to the Hall, where he received medical attention. On inquiry at the Hall on Thursday, a JOURNAL representative was told that Mr. Benthall had had a good night and his condition showed improvement.

11th December 1937

LATE MR. T. LEGGE

The funeral took place at Broseley cemetery on Monday of Mr. Thomas Legge, 26, Wesley Road. Mr. Legge died on Dec. 2 after a lengthy illness, at the age of 70. He was a native of Broseley, where he had lived for the greater part of his life before coming to Iron-Bridge 15 years ago. Previously he had lived in Madeley for some years. He was well-known in the district and had been employed as a clerk by Messrs. Maw and Co., Ltd., for nearly fifty years. The local Co-operative Society found in him an active supporter and for 24 years he had been a member of the committee and latterly vice-chairman. While in Broseley he had acted for some years as secretary of the Congregational Church and at Madeley he was a senior Sunday School teacher associated with the Methodist Church. He is survived by a widow, three daughters and one son.

The service at the graveside was conducted by the Rev. E. Roberts (rector of Iron-Bridge). The chief mourners were the widow; Mr. and Mrs. Sydney Legge, Wellington (son and daughter-in-law); Mrs. E. Edwards, Leicester (daughter); Mr. and Mrs. N. Watson, Manchester (son-in-law and daughter); Mrs. W. Elkington, Leicester (daughter) and Mr. H. Clarke, Coalbrookdale. Others present included Mr. D. Jones, Mr. F. Wright, Mr. J. Williams, Mr. B. Wilkinson, Mr. B. Barker, Mr. S. Wood and Mr. H. Baugh. Mr. J. Simpson represented Messrs. Maw and Co., Ltd The bearers were Messrs. J. Chadwick (Broseley), C. Oakley (Madeley), H. Weale (Jackfield), S. Thompson, G. Harris, M. Thompson, J. Potts and E. Britton (all of Iron-Bridge).

Wreaths were received from:—Wife, Ada; Syd, Ethel and grandson, Norman; Ethel and grandchildren, Horace, Margaret and Ken; Hilda, Walter and grandchildren, Beryl and Joan; Lily, Norman and Raymond; Maggie and family, Wolverhampton; Mr. and Mrs. Hewitt, Madeley; Mr. and Mrs. Jelly, Leicester; neighbours and friends, Wesley Road; Directors of Maw and Co., Ltd.; employees, Co-operative Society, Iron-Bridge; committee and officials, Co-operative Society, Iron-Bridge.

BROSELEY

A SOCIAL EVENING, organised by the Parish Church choir, was held at the Town Hall on Saturday. The first part of the programme consisted of musical items by Messrs. F. Francis, H. Evans, and R. Molyneux (songs), Masters Dennis Williams and R. Gittins (duets), Master Ken Davies (pianoforte solos), and Messrs. R. A. Yorke and Harris, Madeley (piano duets). The latter part of the evening was spent in dancing. Refreshments were served by the ladies. The arrangements had been made by Mr. Yorke (organist), and Mr. C. Davies.

CONSERVATIVES’ SUPPER. — The Broseley men’s and women’s branches of the Wrekin Conservative and Unionist Association held a supper in the Town Hall on Tuesday. Some 60 guests sat down, including Mr. E. H. H. Shorting, who presided, Lady Norah More, Miss N. Foster (hon. secretary of the Association), and Mr. W. M. Ridgwell (Divisional Agent). The catering was in the hands of Mrs. Renwick and Mrs. Broadhurst, with the assistance of a joint committee. Following supper Mr. R. H. Colwill gave an address on the foreign situation. A vote of thanks to the speaker was proposed by Mr. E. H. H. Shorting and seconded by the Agent, who at the same time congratulated the branches on their success that night and thanked all who had worked so hard in providing the supper. There followed an entertainment, provided by Miss M. Jones and Mr. L. R. Coxon, together with community singing. Lady Norah More proposed a vote of thanks to the agent for 1-is help, and the evening concluded with the sin Bing of “Auld Lang Syne” and the National Anthem.

CONGREGATIONAL BAZAAR

The Congregational Schoolroom presented a colourful appearance and a scene of much activity on Saturday, when a Christmas sale and a bazaar, were held, in aid of the renovation fund.

The opening ceremony was performed by Lady Norah More, of Barrow House, who expressed her pleasure at being present, and wished the bazaar every success. She was presented, by Miss Norah Hough, with a bouquet, which had been given by Mr. C. Hough. Supporting Lady Norah More on the platform were Mrs. Howells (Field House), Mrs. Renwick (The Gables), the Rev. C. E. Wright (minister), and Mrs. Wright.

The minister, who presided, before welcoming the opener, said they were sorry that the Mayor (Mr. E. H. H. Shorting), was unable to attend. He had sent his good wishes, and a donation of one guinea.

The winners in the cake competition, which had previously been judged by Mr. Towler, were announced by Lady Norah More as follows:-1 Mrs. C. Thomas, 2 Mrs. F. Williams (Broseley Wood), 3 Mrs. Owen Jones.

During the afternoon musical items were given by Messrs. H. Fergusson (piano accordion), and C. Gallier (drums).

The stall and stall-holders were: —Hoop-la and cake, Mrs. J. Bryan; Mrs. L. Ball and Mrs. C. Hough; flowers, Mrs. R. Heighway and Mrs. A. Brazier; millinery, Mr. and Mrs. E.: J. Glover; mystery

Archer, Mrs. A. Bowen and Mrs: T. Denstone; fancy work, Mr. and Mrs. W. Williams; trinkets, Mist Molly Denstone and Miss Joyce Roberts; sweets, Mr. R. Heighway and Mrs. Wright; produce, Mrs. A. Harvey; lucky dip, Miss Kathleen Hartshorne, Miss Miriam Moore, and Msis Mavis Watkins; cover the shilling, Miss Violet Brian; refreshments, Mrs. Denstone.

JACKFIELD

COALFORD SUNDAY SCHOOL. — The Pleasant Sunday Afternoon service took place in the Schoolroom and Sunday and was arranged by the following teachers, Mrs. Anderson, the Misses F. and M. Poole and Mr. T. Heighway. The address was given by Mr. G. Stewart. The lessons were read by Gertie Beaston and Graham Dickens, and a recitation was given by Dennis Edwards. Choruses were also rendered by a number of the scholars. During the service Mrs. J. Evans received donations for the National Children’s Home and Orphanage. — On Monday a social was held, presided over by Mr. W. H. Poole. Recitations were contributed by Lilian Pardoe and Brian Pumford, and the rest of the evening was devoted to games, etc. Those responsible for the arranging of the programme and refreshments were Mrs. Anderson, Mrs. Poole, Mrs. Pumford, Mrs. Peake, Mrs. Evans, the Misses E. Stokes. P. Bird and N. Hanley, and Messrs. W. Poole, J. Pumford. J. Evans, G. Stewart. T. Heighway and A. Cleobury. The proceeds were for Sunday School funds.

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR

Organised by the Parochial Church Council in aid of the Parish Hall maintenance fund, a Christmas bazaar took place at St. Mary’s Parish Hall on Saturday. Much work had been put into the effort, the stalls being attractively arranged round the room and there was a brisk trade.

Mrs. Benthall (Benthall Hall) who was supported on the platform by the Mayor (Mr. E. H. H. Shorting) and the Rev. F. J. R. Mason (rector), declared the bazaar open and was thanked on the motion of Mr. W. Storey, seconded by the Mayor. Among others present during the afternoon were Lady Norah More, Mr. and Mrs. O. D. Murphy and Mr and Mrs. T. W. Howells.

One of the chief attractions at the bazaar were the two presentations of “By the Zuyder Zee,” a short play written in rhyme by the rector. It was splendidly performed by the children by means of gestures. The characters were “Martin the Miller,” Clarence Groves; “Olga,” his wife, Clarice Hadley: “Gretel,” Vera Hadley; “Hans,” Alan Yorke; “English maid.” Nancy Phillips: “gypsy maids.” Mary Dodd, Ivy Groves and Enid Hadley. The scenery was arranged by the rector and the children wore appropriate costumes.

The stallholders were:- Magic pump, Miss Mary Harrison and Miss Marjorie Dodd: fancy and toy stall, Mrs. F. J. R. Mason; produce. Mrs. W. Storey and Mrs. A. Aston; variety, Mrs. Fred Dodd and Miss L. Evans: household. Mrs. T. J. Hearn; china and pottery, Mrs. E. Sykes and Mrs. F. Clay; fruit, Miss E. Hadley; toilet, Miss W. Perkins. Miss E. Perkins and Miss A. Ellis; photographs, Mr. D. W. Hearn;  skittles, .Mrs. F. Clay: hoon-la. Master Stanley Gilbert; “The Grand Dashional,” Mr. N. Hudson and Mr. T. Green; refreshments, Mrs. J. Perkins. Mrs. E. Green, Mrs. G. Britton, Mrs. G. Williams, Mrs H.  Price and Mrs. E. Poole.

18th December 1937

BROSELEY

CHILDREN’S PARTIES. — Two Christmas parties took place at the School this week. On Monday the younger boys were given tea and afterwards spent a pleasant time at various games and carol singing. The helpers at tea were Mrs. Anthony, Mrs. Pugh, Mrs. Archer Jones, Mrs. Hough, Mrs. Tonkiss, Mrs. Brazier, Mrs. Wilkinson and Miss B. D. Grierson. The following senior boys served at table:—Terence Mason, Eric Venn, Ernest Bowen, Colin Watson, Derrick Pountney and Tom Meadows. The party has been arranged by Messrs. H. Evans and R. J. Jones.—On Tuesday the senior boys held their breaking-up party, when the following managers were present:—The Mayor (Mr. E. H. H. Snorting), Rev. C. S. Jackson, Mr. C. R. Jones and Mr. Mr. Broadhurst. Others present included Mrs. Broadhurst and Mr. Fred Francis (attendance officer). Following tea the children took part in games and carol singing, the programme having been arranged by Mr. A. Wilkinson (headmaster) and Mr. S. R. Brookes. Assistance in providing the tea was given by Mrs. Anthony, Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Broadhurst, Mrs. Pugh, Miss P. Davies, Mrs. Wilkinson and Miss Grierson, while the children who served at table were Frank Armstrong, Terence Mason, Gerald Southorn and Eric Griffiths. To enable the parties to be held, money had been raised by whist drives and a dance and this had been augmented by generous contributions from many friends of the school.—The infants’ department held a party in the school on Dec. 17, given by Mr. J. A. Downes, when a Christmas tree, provided by Lord Forester, added extra gaiety to the festivities. Tea was served by Miss E. White (headmistress), Miss A. Smallwood, Miss I. Smitherman, Mr. and Mrs. Broadhurst, Mr. C. R. Jones, Mrs. G. Potts and Mrs. J. Nicklin. After tea the children took part in an entertainment, one of the outstanding items being the performance of a Nativity play. Another pleasing event was the four folk dances by Edna Simmonds, Linda Meredith, Iris Lloyd, Hilda Bradley, Joyce Tristham, Elsie Pace, Jean Owen and Margaret Everall. The Nativity play and other items were repeated at the school on Tuesday afternoon before an audience of a large number of parents. The girls’ and infants’ departments broke up on Wednesday and return on Thursday, Jan. 6, while the boys finished on Thursday, until Monday, Jan. 10.

WOODWORK DISPLAY. — A joint exhibition of woodwork done by the pupils attending Broseley and Jackfield Schools was held at the Town Hall on Dec. 16. The Mayor (Mr. E. H. H. Shorting) opened the exhibition, and referred to the fine pieces of handwork on view. Others present at the display included Mr. E. Quine (assistant secretary for county education, Shrewsbury), Rev. C. S. Jackson, Mr. C. R. Jones and Mr. W. E. R. Miles (instructor). The Mayor and the Rev. Jackson awarded prizes, and the judge, Mr. Griffiths (Jackfield), declared the winners as follows:— 1, Derrick Pountney (cold frame); 2, Edward Wilde, Jackfield (sea-grass Stool): 3. Victor Aston (toboggan): 4, Arthur Reynolds, Jackfield (tea-tray) 5, Colin Rogers, Jackfield (seagrass stool).

JACKFIELD

ACCIDENT.  While walking along the Buildwas Road about three hundred yards on the far side of the Power Station shortly after 7 o’clock on Tuesday morning, Thomas Johnson of 71. Lloyd’s Head, Jackfield, was, it is reported, accidentally knocked down by a car driven by John Molyneux, c/o Littlecote, Cressage. He sustained injuries to the shoulder and arms, and shock, and was detained in the Lady Forester Hospital, Broseley.

BROSELEY

CRICKET CLUB DINNER

A jolly evening was spent by members of the cricket club and friends at the annual dinner on Dec. 10, with Lord Forester (president) in the chair. Among those supporting the chairman were the Mayor (Mr. E. H. H. Shorting), the Mayor of Droitwich (Mr. E. R. Fabricus), Mr. T. C. Mapp (Droitwich), Mr. W. R. Shaw (Chirbury), Mr. E. W. Jones, Mr. T. W. Howells, Dr. J. G. Boon, Dr. T. Hoy and Professor A. J. Kelley (Benthall).

After the loyal toast Mr. A. Wilkinson proposed that of “The Mayor and Corporation”. He referred to the big improvements which had taken place in the town of recent years, especially in regard to roads and housing he hoped that the Mayor would, in leading the Corporation, take advantage of various funds available for improving the health and physical well-being of the youth of the town, and of the adults too. The education authority was anxious to start a recreative and physical training class in Broseley, and he had been asked to submit names. While Broseley needed these extra facilities for physical education, he thought it was still more important that they should be well fed, and he hoped the council would play its part by providing work for the unemployed in carrying out their various improvement schemes.

The Mayor, responding, said he could assure them that the council did its best not only for those people who had shown confidence in it, but for the town and the interests of the borough at large. With reference to physical fitness, he thought they did a great deal to promote the development of physical health. A scheme was on foot to purchase the Birch Meadow Chapel and convert it into a gymnasium. He was wondering whether they might be interfering with existing organisations, and suggested that the money might better be spent on their present clubs, the school, the Town Hall or the Victorian Hall, which could probably be fitted up as a gymnasium.

Mr. T. W. Howells, proposing the toast of “Broseley Cricket Club”, referred to the fact that they had with them that night a member who had been connected with the club for 50 consecutive years—Mr. W. R. Shaw.—Replying, the Rev. C. S. Jackson remarked that the club had a good first eleven, and he congratulated the captain, Mr. L. Shaw, on whose behalf he was replying to that toast.

The toast of “The Officials of the Cricket Club” was submitted by Mr. W. Oakley, and he coupled with it the names of Lord Forester and Dr. J. G. Boon. The toast was received with musical honours, and Lord Forester and Dr. Boon. replied.—Mr. A. J. Garbett proposed “The Visitors”, and the Mayor of Droitwich replied.—The health of the hostess was drunk, on the proposition of Mr. M. Davis, and Mr. J. R. Lloyd responded on behalf of Mrs. Smith.

Musical items were given by Messrs. R. G. Harding and H. Francis, Shrewsbury, and there was also community singing.

The arrangements for the dinner were made by Mr. J. B. Dixon, secretary, assisted by the committee.

25th December 1937

BROSELEY

SOCIAL CLUB DINNER.—About 50 members attended the annual dinner of the Social Club held at the Club Rooms on Dec. 17, with Dr. J. G. Boon in the chair. Others present supporting Dr. Boon included the Mayor (Mr. E. H. H. Shorting), Inspector J. H. Machin, Mr. J. R. Nicklin, Mr. A. Dixon, and Mr. A. J. Garbett. An apology was received from Lord Forester, who was unable to attend. Afterwards the company adjourned to the billiard room, where a programme of songs and community singing contributed to the evening’s enjoyment. Songs were rendered by Mr. R. Molyneux, Mr. A. Fielding, Mr. Frank Davies and Mr. F. Francis, and community singing was led by Mr. Molyneux and Mr. Arthur Wilde. Mr. M. Davis was at the piano. Thanks to the social committee for arranging the function and to the artistes were voiced by Mr. J. Watkins. Mr. F. Francis thanked Dr. Boon for presiding and mentioned the great interest he and Mrs. Boon took in the affairs of the club. Dr. Boon returned thanks, The secretarial arrangements were made by Mr. R. B. Weekes.

WHIST DRIVE AND DANCE. —Organised by the headmaster, Mr A. Wilkinson, and staff, a successful whist drive and dance took place at the school on Dec. 17 in aid of the children’s Christmas parties. Ten tables were occupied for the whist, Mr. Wilkinson acting as the M.C. The prizes were distributed by Mrs. Ogilvie and the winners were Mrs. G Oakley, 2 Mrs. A. Tonkiss, 3 Mrs N. Ball; lowest score, Mrs. Deval. 1 Mr. F. Mear, 2 Mr. R. Perks, Mrs. Casey (playing as gentleman); lowest score, Mr. F. Lawrence. There were about 10(present for the dance, Mr. S. R Brookes and Mr. R. G. Jones being joint M.C. The refreshments most of which had been made al the school cookery centre by Miss Margery Anthony, were served under the supervision of Mrs Anthony.

FUNERAL OF MR. J. W. ROPER. —The funeral of Mr. John William Roper, 3, Speeds Lane, took place at the cemetery on Saturday, a Catholic service being conducted at the graveside by Father Roberts, Shifnal. The family mourners were the widow; Mr. J. T. Roper (son) and Mr. J. Farr, Birmingham (brother-in-law). The bearers were Messrs. J. Humphries, H. Southorn, J. Bryan, N. Williams, T. Armstrong and C. Lloyd. Among others present were Mr. J. Garbett (representing Coalbrookdale Iron Works) and a number of fellow employees, Mr. E. C. S. White and Mr. T. Goodall (representing British Legion). The local court of the A.O.F. was also represented and Mr. Fred Shaw read the funeral oration. Wreaths included those from the British Legion, the Broseley United Friendly Society Hospital Committee, and work-people at Broseley Pipe Works and the King’s Head.

BROTHERHOOD.— The December meeting was held in the Town Hall on Sunday. The Rev. C. S. Jackson (chaplain) presided and led the prayers and reading. An interesting address on “Evolution” was given by Mr. G. Horswill of Birmingham, and a lengthy discussion followed. Selections were given on the handbells by the Tower Handbell Octet conducted by Mr. A. J. Garbett. During the interval coffee and mince-pies were handed round under the supervision of Mr. R. W. Pountney. The vote of thanks to the speaker, chairman and ringers was proposed by Mr. T. Goodall (secretary).

CAROL SERVICE.—The annual carol service took place at the Parish Church on Sunday evening when the choir, conducted by Mr. R. A. Yorke (organist and choirmaster), gave renderings of well-known carols. The service, which took the form of festal evensong, was taken by the Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector). In addition to the carols by the choir, the large congregation was treated to selections by the Tower Handbell Octet (conductor, Mr. A. J. Garbett).

LATE MR. J. TAYLOR

The death occurred at 24, Bridgnorth Road, on Saturday, after a long illness, of Mr. John Taylor, at the age of 75. Mr. Taylor was a native of Hughley (Shrops.) and had spent most of his life in Yorkshire. Since coming to Broseley about seven years ago he had lived a retired life, taking a keen interest in gardening, which was his chief hobby.

The funeral took place on Tuesday, a service being conducted in the Parish Church by the Rev. C. S. Jackson (rector), assisted by the Rev. L. S. Beale (North Hammersmith, London), Mr. E. C. S. White (diocesan lay reader) also took part. The chief mourners were Miss A. Taylor (daughter); Miss E. Taylor, North Hammersmith (daughter) and Messrs. Boo and Bert Downes, Saw Mill, Smithies (nephews). The bearers were Messrs. N. Ball, J. Sargeant, J. Aston, J. Wood, N. and G. Oakley.

Wreaths were received from: Annie, Edith and Mabel; his little friend, Kenneth; Mr. and Mrs. G. Chadwick; tenants at Church St.; Mrs. Sneyd; Jack and Phyl; Mr. and Mrs. Miles; Mr. and Mrs. N. Pearson and family; E. and W. Davis, M. and P. Davis, Post Office; Mr. and Mrs. C. Instone; Bob and Doris; all at Saw Mill House.

LATE MR. G. GITTINGS

A service was held at the Methodist Church before the interment in the cemetery on Saturday of Mr. George Gittings, 42, Council Houses, Bridgnorth Road. The Rev. R. H. Osborne (Madeley Wood) conducted the service, Mrs. Harris being at the organ. The chief mourners were Mr. and Mrs. G. Perks (brother-in-law and sister); Messrs. Tom, George and William Meredith (nephews); Mr. George Perks, junr., and Mr. Cecil Gittings (nephews); Mr. H. Gittings (Jackfield), Mr. Albert Gittings and Mr. Albert Edwards. The bearers were Messrs. S. and I. Minton, A. Evans, J. Roberts, H. Barnsley and G. Evans. Among those present at the funeral were Capt. E. D. Collins, Mr. C. R. Jones, Mr. J. Hearn, Mr. W. Edge, P.C. Ogilvie, Mr. E. Gwynne, Mr. B. Jones, Mr. Owen Jones, Mr. Colin Jones, Mr. Cecil Thomas, Mrs. F. C. Howells (Field, House), Mrs. N. Ball, Mr. H. Ball, Mr. G. Ball, Mr. F. Preston, Mr. George Harris, Mr. J. Pumford, Mr. J. Casey, Mr. N. Oakley, Mr. George Oakley, Mr. J. Evans, Mr. J. Wale, Mr. J. Burns, Mr. A. Bradley and Mr. J. Sankey. There were also present representatives of the Broseley and Jackfield Fire Brigade and workmen from the Caughley Pit. Mr. F. Shaw read the Foresters’ funeral oration at the graveside.

Wreaths were received from His loving wife; sister Lizzie, George and family; sister Jane and gamily; Mr. and Mrs. T. Meredith and Linda; George, Marie and little Jean; Sarah and Allen; Harry and Lizzie, Shrewsbury; Mrs. Howells, Field House; Mrs. F. Halley and family; Mr. and Mrs. J. Casey and Celia; Mrs. D. L. Prestage; Mr. and Mrs. E. D. Collins; Mr. and Mrs. J. Nicklin; Mrs. H. Seabury; Mr. J. Burns; J. Hearn, Den and Lol; Mr. and Mrs. Oakley and family; Mrs. G. Ball and family, Dark Lane; Broseley Amateur Dramatic Society; Bon Marche, Broseley; members and friends, Broseley Labour Party; employees, Prestage and Broseley Tileries Co; Broseley and Jackfield Fire brigade; members and friends, Methodist Church; directors of Prestage and Broseley Tileries Co.; trustees, Broseley Methodist Church; fellow workmen, Caughley Pit; Broseley United Friendly Society.

A report of the inquest on Mr. Gittings will be found in another column.

STRUCK BY LUMP OF CLAY
MAN’S DEATH FOLLOWS MINE
ACCIDENT

INQUEST ON BROSELEY FIRE BRIGADE CAPTAIN

THE resumed inquest on George L Gittings, aged 64, of 42, Bridgnorth Road, Broseley, the captain of the Broseley Fire Brigade, who died on Dec. 16,was held at Iron-Bridge on Thursday by the coroner (Mr. F. W .Derry) and a jury, of which Mr. H. E. Rowley was foreman.

Mr. R. J. R. Haslewood, of Bridgnorth, appeared for the Prestage and Broseley Tileries Co., and Mr. B. D. J. Hayes, of Shrewsbury, represented the widow. Mr. G. D. Davies, of Birmingham (H.M. Inspector of Mines) was also present.

“Lump of Clay Fell”

Charles Henry Boden, of 19, Hockey Road, Broseley, clay miner employed by the Prestage and Broseley Tileries, said he was working with Gittings on Nov. 19 at about 12-30 p.m., and they were timbering the road in the clay mine. They were putting “trees” up. They had put one “tree” and a bar up and were putting up another “tree”. There was some clay in the way and Gittings stooped to pick up a pick, and as he stooped a lump of clay came down and must have hit him in the back. Witness did not see it happen, but he heard Gittings say “Oh!” Gittings told him that the lump had hit him in the small of the back. He seemed in great Pain. The clay which had fallen was about 71b. in weight. It was ragged and was like rock. It had fallen about 6ft. Gittings was a strong, healthy man and had been doing that kind of work for a number of years.

Replying to the inspector, witness said that when hammering the “tree” into position the clay might have been disturbed.

Geo. Reginald Edwards, of 75, King Street, Broseley, clay miner, said Gitings told him he had “had a clout”. A piece of clay, he said, had fallen off the side and had hit him in the back.

“Employed By Firm for 40 Years”

Capt. Edward Duppa Collins, director of the Prestage and Broseley Tileries Co., said Gittings had been employed by the firm for about 40 years. He had been a foreman in charge of the Caughley pit for about 17 years. He was a most experienced man and witness could speak very highly of him. Gittings did not report the accident, but witness was informed on the following day that Gittings had met with a slight accident. He went to Gittings’ home to see him. He agreed that Gittings would not have left his work if he had not been seriously ill.

Mrs. Rebecca Gittings, the widow, said her husband returned home at about 2-30 on Nov. 19, and said he had had a blow in the back. He seemed in great pain. Her husband had never had a day’s illness during the last 40 years.

Medical Evidence

Dr. T. S. Hoy, Broseley, said he saw deceased on Nov. 20, the day after the accident, and he found he was tender on the muscles covering his left hip and there was a small amount of bruising and swelling there. Deceased was a muscular and powerful man and his general health was good. His condition improved somewhat, but later he advised calling in Dr. Stote, a specialist, of Shrewsbury, who diagnosed abscess of the right lung and double pneumonia. He told witness that his condition could be attributed to the accident lowering his power of resistance to the germ causing infection. In his (witness’s) opinion the accident was a contributory cause of the man’s death. The primary cause of death was abscess of the right lung and double pneumonia.

The jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, stating that in their opinion the death was contributed to by the injuries accidentally received while following his employment.

Sympathy was expressed with the relatives by Capt. Collins (on behalf of the company) and by others present.