A HISTORY OF FEATHERSTONE
1943
THE WAR
JANUARY
The first dance of the year in the Lister Hall was held by the Special
Constables for their Comforts for the Forces Fund, and attracted over
350 people. The secretary, Mr H Wilson, thanked the public for their
patronage during the past year and announced as a result of the dances
over £114 had been paid into the fund.
The officers of the Featherstone Flight of No.463 Squadron, ATC, gave a
party to members and friends in their headquarters at Gordon Street
School. Over 200 people had a tea and concert, the next day a dance, and
the third day a film show. The commanding officer, Flying Officer
Jackson, thanked all who had helped to make the party such a success.
The Special Constables said the Saturday attendance at the next dance was over 400. They announced a series of dances on Wednesday evenings at the Miners' Welfare Hall, and a large crowd attended the first one. Did this mean Jack Tumelty had given up on his competition with the Specials? (See 1942.)
The Ministry of Transport asked councils to run their vehicles on coal gas instead of petrol, but Featherstone Council said it was not practicable at present to convert any of theirs.
A Prisoners of War Club was formed to send comforts to those in prisoner of war camps. They numbered 30 and parcels had been sent to most of them. A dance was held in the Lister Hall to raise funds, and over 300 attended.
The Special Constables said the Saturday attendance at the next dance was over 400. They announced a series of dances on Wednesday evenings at the Miners' Welfare Hall, and a large crowd attended the first one. Did this mean Jack Tumelty had given up on his competition with the Specials? (See 1942.)
The Ministry of Transport asked councils to run their vehicles on coal gas instead of petrol, but Featherstone Council said it was not practicable at present to convert any of theirs.
A Prisoners of War Club was formed to send comforts to those in prisoner of war camps. They numbered 30 and parcels had been sent to most of them. A dance was held in the Lister Hall to raise funds, and over 300 attended.
The Special Constables arranged a pantomime in the Welfare Hall performed by the Kinsley Church pantomime players who put on Cinderella to packed houses. The proceeds were shared by Kinsley Church and the Specials' Comforts Fund.
A concert by the Elains' School of Dancing from Pontefract took place
in the Social Service Centre. It was arranged by the Woman's Voluntary
Service and made £8 10s profit for the Aid to China Fund.
The Featherstone War Savings Committee decided to hold a Wings For Victory week in May. They said the highest weekly savings were £2,567, and the lowest £940 last Christmas week. There were 47 street groups and a total membership of 1,220.
FEBRUARY The Women's Voluntary Service continued their work of sending a parcel to a prisoner of war each week, and raising money for the Red Cross Fund. They had made up 1,050 yards of material into pajamas and nightdresses for hospitals.
MARCH The Featherstone Youth Council received official sanction to form a Corps of Sea Cadets, and a civilian committee was appointed to organise it. With the Lister Hall changing back to the Lister Baths for the summer season, the Special Constables decided to continue their Wednesday and Saturday dances at the Miners' Welfare Hall. They had raised £208 during the winter season and asked locals to rally round the Comforts Fund and so make sure of something for those in the Forces to come home to. They made a grant of 15s per year to each one serving.
The Featherstone War Savings Committee decided to hold a Wings For Victory week in May. They said the highest weekly savings were £2,567, and the lowest £940 last Christmas week. There were 47 street groups and a total membership of 1,220.
FEBRUARY The Women's Voluntary Service continued their work of sending a parcel to a prisoner of war each week, and raising money for the Red Cross Fund. They had made up 1,050 yards of material into pajamas and nightdresses for hospitals.
MARCH The Featherstone Youth Council received official sanction to form a Corps of Sea Cadets, and a civilian committee was appointed to organise it. With the Lister Hall changing back to the Lister Baths for the summer season, the Special Constables decided to continue their Wednesday and Saturday dances at the Miners' Welfare Hall. They had raised £208 during the winter season and asked locals to rally round the Comforts Fund and so make sure of something for those in the Forces to come home to. They made a grant of 15s per year to each one serving.
JULY
The council discussed the proposal by the National Association of Local
Government Officials for the pay of council workmen in the Forces to be
made up to what it was when they worked for the council. Cr Evans said
he would never vote for it because it was unjust. Mining families who
had often three or four members in the forces should not be expected to
pay rates to have the pay of council employees in the Forces made up. He
said he would not object if the system was universal.
The Gordon Street School hall was used for dances in the summer instead
of the Welfare (no reason was reported but it had probably been
requisitioned for military purposes). The nursing staff of Ackton
Hospital arranged a dance there in aid of the local Prisoner of War
Fund. Over 350 people turned up. The tickets and posters were hand
printed by nurses Thomas and Armitage.
AUGUST A second dance was held in Gordon Street School and raised £55. The nurses proposed to hold another dance with the aim of making their total contribution £100.
SEPTEMBER The county council said a nursery would be opened at Gordon Street School for children of women who were doing war work.
Mr A Coult, the organiser of the Aid to China Fund, said £494 had been raised and he hoped to make it up to £500.
AUGUST A second dance was held in Gordon Street School and raised £55. The nurses proposed to hold another dance with the aim of making their total contribution £100.
SEPTEMBER The county council said a nursery would be opened at Gordon Street School for children of women who were doing war work.
Mr A Coult, the organiser of the Aid to China Fund, said £494 had been raised and he hoped to make it up to £500.
The council discussed the proposal to make up the pay of council
employees in the Forces and decided to stick to their original decision
not to do so.
Battle of Britain Sunday was observed with a procession to Purston
Church led by the Featherstone Silver Prize Band. It included the
Council, Police, Civil Defence Services, Home Guard, Special
Constabulary, Air Training Corps, and Women's Junior Air Corps. After
the service there was a parade past the council offices where Major
Fleming took the salute. The offices were decorated with plants and
flags and a large "V sign".
OCTOBER The Ministry of Labour told the council if they did not agree to supplement the pay of council employees in the Forces it would be referred to the National Arbitration Tribunal. The clerk said the cost up to the present would be about £400. Cr Evans said "They can take it where they like, but I shall never put my hand up for it".
The dancing season opened at the Lister Hall. The matron and staff at Ackton Hospital held dances on Fridays for the Prisoner of War Fund, and the Special Constables took over on Saturdays for their Comforts for the Forces Fund. The Specials hoped to give gifts to the value of at least 15s each per year to members of the Forces and Women's Land Army. During 1943 over £900 had been paid out, plus a contribution of £80 to the Prisoner of War Fund.
NOVEMBER The Featherstone and Purston Special Constables put a long appreciation in the Express from which this is an extract.
OCTOBER The Ministry of Labour told the council if they did not agree to supplement the pay of council employees in the Forces it would be referred to the National Arbitration Tribunal. The clerk said the cost up to the present would be about £400. Cr Evans said "They can take it where they like, but I shall never put my hand up for it".
The dancing season opened at the Lister Hall. The matron and staff at Ackton Hospital held dances on Fridays for the Prisoner of War Fund, and the Special Constables took over on Saturdays for their Comforts for the Forces Fund. The Specials hoped to give gifts to the value of at least 15s each per year to members of the Forces and Women's Land Army. During 1943 over £900 had been paid out, plus a contribution of £80 to the Prisoner of War Fund.
NOVEMBER The Featherstone and Purston Special Constables put a long appreciation in the Express from which this is an extract.
"A word of thanks to the supporters of our Saturday night dances in the
Lister Hall in aid of the Featherstone and Purston Forces Comforts
Fund. Do you realise that if all the 1,161 boys and girls registered on
our books, and receiving 15s per year, had been on parade last Sunday
the parade, marching in threes, would have reached from the pit railway
bridge to the bottom of Station Lane. But, to our knowledge, quite a
good few have not, through their own foolish shyness, registered with
the fund yet. To these, we appeal to them to do so as soon as possible.
The amount (15s each per year) is likely to increase very considerably
at short notice.
"Now, what had this to do with dancers? Just this; with your continued
support, along with all the other supporters who are organising
competitions for us, contributing to the boxes in the hotels and clubs,
or doing anything at all to help us, you are playing an honourable part
in making it possible for the Comforts Fund to be able to supply all the
lads and lasses with a little comfort when home on leave; and so 1,161
voices away from home on the seas and in foreign lands are saying from
the bottom of their heart "THANK YOU".
A social evening was held in the Social Service Centre by the Prisoner of War Club to welcome home two repatriated prisoners, Bandsman Ed Bearns and Private E J Martindale. There were refreshments and a concert, and both men were presented with £5 from the club.
A social evening was held in the Social Service Centre by the Prisoner of War Club to welcome home two repatriated prisoners, Bandsman Ed Bearns and Private E J Martindale. There were refreshments and a concert, and both men were presented with £5 from the club.
A substantial reduction in the amount of salvage collected was noted by
the Ministry, especially kitchen waste. The council's sanitary
inspector agreed the position was not satisfactory and said many people
were putting waste on the fire and there was much pilfering. Cr Evans
pointed out many householders kept rabbits and gave their kitchen waste
to them. He also said more bins were needed. Housewives could not be
expected to walk 100 yards to a bin if it meant leaving small children
in the house.
At a National Tribunal hearing in London the council lost its case
against the supplementation of war service pay brought by NALGO. They
were ordered to award it from 1 January 1940.
The Special Constables decided to limit their Saturday night dances to over 16's and saw an immediate increase in the attendance with it going up to over 400.
The Special Constables decided to limit their Saturday night dances to over 16's and saw an immediate increase in the attendance with it going up to over 400.
THE COUNCIL
JANUARY Dr Duncan, standing in for Dr Steven who was ill, reported
there were 52 cases of measles last month. The scabies epidemic
continued, and 67 cases had been treated so far at the first aid post (the Palace) with satisfactory results.
The council had successfully applied to the magistrates for all
functions at the Lister Hall to be allowed to carry on until midnight
instead of 11pm, except for the Comforts Fund dances on a Saturday. It
was decided to apply next month for this to apply to all dances.
MARCH A circular was received from the Ministry about post-war housing needs. Cr Hartington said there is no doubt there is a great need in Featherstone for plenty of houses. Cr Rowley said they should submit a programme for 500 houses because at least 50% of the population was badly housed, and a greater percentage of larger houses was needed.
It was agreed to put off for a year, owing to war conditions, the cleaning out of Mill Hill reservoir and North Featherstone water tank. Running repairs and painting would be carried out.
APRIL The Ministry of Supply said the collection of kitchen waste in the district was short of the amount required. The sanitary inspector said a good deal if it was collected privately (pig swill for local pigs?).
Following the fatal accident at the Hall Street junction, the county council would be asked to erect a halt sign at the junction of Ackworth Road and Hall Street, and a dangerous bend sign near Purston National School.
At the annual meeting Cr F Banks was re-appointed chairman with the hope his health would be better than it was during the past year. He said he was improving and he hoped the improvement would be maintained.
MAY It was reported 3,000 gallons of water were used to fight a fire at Ackton Wood, and the owners would be asked to post notices drawing attention to the danger of fire in the area. After the bus accident on Bell Hill, North Featherstone, the council decided to draw the attention of the county council to the danger of the narrow road and request it be widened.
MARCH A circular was received from the Ministry about post-war housing needs. Cr Hartington said there is no doubt there is a great need in Featherstone for plenty of houses. Cr Rowley said they should submit a programme for 500 houses because at least 50% of the population was badly housed, and a greater percentage of larger houses was needed.
It was agreed to put off for a year, owing to war conditions, the cleaning out of Mill Hill reservoir and North Featherstone water tank. Running repairs and painting would be carried out.
APRIL The Ministry of Supply said the collection of kitchen waste in the district was short of the amount required. The sanitary inspector said a good deal if it was collected privately (pig swill for local pigs?).
Following the fatal accident at the Hall Street junction, the county council would be asked to erect a halt sign at the junction of Ackworth Road and Hall Street, and a dangerous bend sign near Purston National School.
At the annual meeting Cr F Banks was re-appointed chairman with the hope his health would be better than it was during the past year. He said he was improving and he hoped the improvement would be maintained.
MAY It was reported 3,000 gallons of water were used to fight a fire at Ackton Wood, and the owners would be asked to post notices drawing attention to the danger of fire in the area. After the bus accident on Bell Hill, North Featherstone, the council decided to draw the attention of the county council to the danger of the narrow road and request it be widened.
JUNE
The council announced the Featherstone Silver Prize Band had been engaged to
play in Purston Park on Whit-Sunday afternoon and evening and hoped the
public would appreciate the arrangement. Ackton Hall Colliery Co. would
be asked to approach the Police and take action against offenders
regarding the fire risk in Ackton Wood.
The acting medical office said there was a marked decline in the number of scabies cases, which he attributed to the treatment by the volunteers at the first aid post in the Palace.
JULY Cr Evans complained about damage and stealing of produce from allotments. He said there was a lot of it happening in Featherstone, and people committing this damage should be sent to prison without the option of a fine.
OCTOBER It was agreed to send a letter of appreciation to all concerned on the discovery of a new area of the Silkstone Seam at Ackton Hall Colliery which would extend its life for another 50 years.
NOVEMBER The council had put names forward for new magistrates but the Lord Lieutenant replied "I think it unfortunate your council should recommend members of one political party only. As it is my duty to find ladies and gentlemen of all political parties to sit on the Bench, you are making it difficult for me to accept the recommendations".
Cr Rowley described the reply as staggering and said we nominate straight and upright people. He proposed a reply on those line but Cr Hartington thought it would serve no useful purpose, and the council agreed with him.
DECEMBER The council reported several occasions when the locks on the coin boxes at the public lavatory in Wakefield Road had been forced and the money taken. Also damage to air raid shelters in Featherstone Square and the removal of bricks. Warning notices would be posted and the police informed.
The acting medical office said there was a marked decline in the number of scabies cases, which he attributed to the treatment by the volunteers at the first aid post in the Palace.
JULY Cr Evans complained about damage and stealing of produce from allotments. He said there was a lot of it happening in Featherstone, and people committing this damage should be sent to prison without the option of a fine.
OCTOBER It was agreed to send a letter of appreciation to all concerned on the discovery of a new area of the Silkstone Seam at Ackton Hall Colliery which would extend its life for another 50 years.
NOVEMBER The council had put names forward for new magistrates but the Lord Lieutenant replied "I think it unfortunate your council should recommend members of one political party only. As it is my duty to find ladies and gentlemen of all political parties to sit on the Bench, you are making it difficult for me to accept the recommendations".
Cr Rowley described the reply as staggering and said we nominate straight and upright people. He proposed a reply on those line but Cr Hartington thought it would serve no useful purpose, and the council agreed with him.
DECEMBER The council reported several occasions when the locks on the coin boxes at the public lavatory in Wakefield Road had been forced and the money taken. Also damage to air raid shelters in Featherstone Square and the removal of bricks. Warning notices would be posted and the police informed.
A BRITISH RESTAURANT?
The Ministry of Food set up Community Feeding Centres for people who
were having trouble with their rations, or because so many women were
having to do work for the war effort. By the end of 1942 there were
about 2,000 across the country. Meals were sold for a fixed
maximum price of 9d. When Winston Churchill became Prime Minister he
changed the name to British Restaurants.
At the January council meeting there was a resolution from the
Featherstone Labour Party saying a British Restaurant was urgently
needed and the council should establish one in a central position in the
town.
Cr Rowley supported the request, particularly as so many women,
including wives, had gone into industry. He mentioned the large queues
at fish and chip shops as showing the need. Cr Hartington pointed out
Hemsworth had made a loss on their effort, and as pit canteens were to
be opened at Ackton Hall and Snydale Collieries they should await the
results there.
Cr Bradley said a British Restaurant was needed and would be
self-supporting. There were other people than miners who required meals.
The chairman said a restaurant in Featherstone would not make much
headway, especially in view of the pit canteens. Most of the other
workers were employed out of the town. It was agreed to adjourn the
matter for a month.
The canteen at Ackton Hall Colliery was opened at the end of January by the chairman of the company Major Shaw, who said the directors were doing their utmost for the welfare of their workpeople. The canteen was equipped to serve full meals both hot and cold, and was managed by a committee of colliery management and workpeople. The photo below is from the Dr Gatecliff Collection.
The canteen at Ackton Hall Colliery was opened at the end of January by the chairman of the company Major Shaw, who said the directors were doing their utmost for the welfare of their workpeople. The canteen was equipped to serve full meals both hot and cold, and was managed by a committee of colliery management and workpeople. The photo below is from the Dr Gatecliff Collection.
The council discussed the provision of a British Restaurant again in
February. Cr Rowley said the need was as great as, or greater than, it
was a month ago. A number of people had asked him why only the miners
were catered for.
Cr Evans said at least 90% of the population was engaged in, or dependent on the mining industry. The B & S provided a canteen for employees, and the teachers were provided for, so almost the only people left were tradesmen. He said "I want to be sure there are sufficient people in Featherstone who will appreciate a restaurant, use it, and make it a paying concern, before I support it".
The council decided to find out if there was an urgent need for a restaurant, and if so to submit a scheme to the Ministry of Food.
In March the council decided the best way forward was for the public to be allowed to use the local colliery canteens, which would dispense with the need for a British Restaurant, and would save money, labour and fuel. This would be put to Mr Tom Smith MP. The pit canteens were eventually opened to all.
Cr Evans said at least 90% of the population was engaged in, or dependent on the mining industry. The B & S provided a canteen for employees, and the teachers were provided for, so almost the only people left were tradesmen. He said "I want to be sure there are sufficient people in Featherstone who will appreciate a restaurant, use it, and make it a paying concern, before I support it".
The council decided to find out if there was an urgent need for a restaurant, and if so to submit a scheme to the Ministry of Food.
In March the council decided the best way forward was for the public to be allowed to use the local colliery canteens, which would dispense with the need for a British Restaurant, and would save money, labour and fuel. This would be put to Mr Tom Smith MP. The pit canteens were eventually opened to all.
NIGHT TIME ROAD ACCIDENTS
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents noted the increased
number of road accidents since the war began. At the March council meeting Cr Hobson said the society
attributed many of the accidents to poor lighting and because some
drivers were not using the maximum amount of lighting permitted.
Cr Evans said we fine them at Pontefract Police Court for using too much light, but never for not using enough. His opinion was the poor lights on many vehicles were responsible for most of the road deaths. Even when the maximum amount of lighting was used it was impossible for driver and pedestrian to see until they were on top of each other. The only way in reducing road deaths was to give motorists more light.
Cr Woodcock said the street lights were adequate, and some drivers could see 100 yards ahead.
Cr Evans said we fine them at Pontefract Police Court for using too much light, but never for not using enough. His opinion was the poor lights on many vehicles were responsible for most of the road deaths. Even when the maximum amount of lighting was used it was impossible for driver and pedestrian to see until they were on top of each other. The only way in reducing road deaths was to give motorists more light.
Cr Woodcock said the street lights were adequate, and some drivers could see 100 yards ahead.
WINGS FOR VICTORY
The Government decided to hold a national Wings for Victory week to raise money for aircraft.
The Featherstone War Savings Committee decided on a target of £25,000 which would buy five Spitfires. If
successful the Air Ministry would present a commemorative plaque to the
town. The week would be April 10 to 17.
It was pointed out many people thought only National Savings Certificates would count, but also deposits with a Trustee Savings Bank would be included. There wasn't one in Featherstone, but a representative from the York County Savings Bank in Pontefract would be available at the Savings Centre in Station Lane to take deposits.
It was pointed out many people thought only National Savings Certificates would count, but also deposits with a Trustee Savings Bank would be included. There wasn't one in Featherstone, but a representative from the York County Savings Bank in Pontefract would be available at the Savings Centre in Station Lane to take deposits.
The week was opened with a ceremony at the Miners' Welfare Hall. An
indicator was erected designed to show the target and to be set each day
at the total amount invested. Major Shaw, chairman of the directors of
the Ackton Hall, South Kirkby and Hemsworth Collieries, set the
indicator and announced the company would invest £10,000 in the effort.
Afterwards, Cr Banks, chairman of the council, opened an RAF exhibition
in the Parochial Hall and the Social Service Centre.
The officials then visited the Rovers ground where 2,500 spectators were watching a Rovers past v present game. Mr J E Nelson, manager of Ackton Hall Colliery kicked off in the first half, and Major Shaw in the second. The present team beat the past team 6 - 5. The game was in aid of the RAF Benevolent Fund. In the evening the Band of the RAF played for 350 dancers in Gordon Street School.
The total raised on Saturday was £16,000 and the next day there was a procession from Halfpenny Lane to Purston Methodist Church headed by the Featherstone Silver Prize Band. It included the ATS, the WAAF, the Council, Civil Defence, youth organisations, and the Police. After the service the parade reformed and marched past the Police Station where Squadron Leader Bryant took the salute.
Monday was Schools Day with the headteachers at the Welfare. The indicator was set at £28,000 by Air Vice-Marshall Tyson who said we were Hitler's enemy number one because we stopped him winning the war when we stood alone for 12 months before anyone could come to our aid.
Monday was Ladies Day. Mrs E P Bullock was to have set the indicator, but she said she had the greater pleasure in being able to say the figure was too high for her to set because the indicator did not go high enough. She complimented all who had helped, and asked them to save even harder.
Wednesday was Tradesmen's Day. Major Morris set the modified indicator at £35,000 and paid tribute to the town for its great achievement. He said the biggest test of all was still to come, the attack on the fortress of Europe, and the Government needed all the help possible to make a good job of it.
Thursday was Civil Defence Day when Cr B Bradley presided at the indicator ceremony outside the Welfare. He said he hoped they would be able to carry the indicator clean off the top. General Brind said they were not only helping the RAF, but all of the Forces, for without an adequate Air Force neither the Navy nor the Army could succeed. He moved the indicator to £45,000.
Friday was Miners' Day. Cr P Woodcock suggested as they had raised the money for the five Spitfires as originally intended they should go all out for a bomber. Group Captain Duggan agreed and said now we had gone over to the offensive, bombers were also needed. The indicator was raised to £55,000.
The climax was the Saturday ceremony. Mr J Crerar, the president of the Savings Committee, said the result was astounding. He thanked the ladies and the children, and said he could not have wished for a better set of workers. He announced the total was £80,000, but he added when the accounts were finally made up it could still rise to £100,000.
The final total was declared at £102,770 17s 6d. The main savers were the Prudential Insurance Company £10,100, and the coal company £10,000. The locals did their bit. The council invested £3,300, Ackton Hall Colliery employees £5,279 and the school children raised over £3,000.
At a meeting in the Social Service Centre Major W Morris, the Regional Commissioner for War Savings, thanked the people of Featherstone for their splendid contribution, and as an appreciation of the good work done he presented an illuminated address to Mr J Crerar, the president of the local Savings Committee.
In October at the Social Service Centre a ceremony was held for the presentation to the town of a plaque, seven log books and certificates. Mr G A Charlton, chairman of the Savings Committee, congratulated all who had taken part in such a wonderful achievement, especially the group secretaries and the schoolchildren.
Air Vice-Marshall Tyssen handed over the items (the log books were for five Spitfires and two Halifax bombers). He also gave thanks for the gift of £150 for the RAF Benevolent Fund and for a further £45 promised.
The officials then visited the Rovers ground where 2,500 spectators were watching a Rovers past v present game. Mr J E Nelson, manager of Ackton Hall Colliery kicked off in the first half, and Major Shaw in the second. The present team beat the past team 6 - 5. The game was in aid of the RAF Benevolent Fund. In the evening the Band of the RAF played for 350 dancers in Gordon Street School.
The total raised on Saturday was £16,000 and the next day there was a procession from Halfpenny Lane to Purston Methodist Church headed by the Featherstone Silver Prize Band. It included the ATS, the WAAF, the Council, Civil Defence, youth organisations, and the Police. After the service the parade reformed and marched past the Police Station where Squadron Leader Bryant took the salute.
Monday was Schools Day with the headteachers at the Welfare. The indicator was set at £28,000 by Air Vice-Marshall Tyson who said we were Hitler's enemy number one because we stopped him winning the war when we stood alone for 12 months before anyone could come to our aid.
Monday was Ladies Day. Mrs E P Bullock was to have set the indicator, but she said she had the greater pleasure in being able to say the figure was too high for her to set because the indicator did not go high enough. She complimented all who had helped, and asked them to save even harder.
Wednesday was Tradesmen's Day. Major Morris set the modified indicator at £35,000 and paid tribute to the town for its great achievement. He said the biggest test of all was still to come, the attack on the fortress of Europe, and the Government needed all the help possible to make a good job of it.
Thursday was Civil Defence Day when Cr B Bradley presided at the indicator ceremony outside the Welfare. He said he hoped they would be able to carry the indicator clean off the top. General Brind said they were not only helping the RAF, but all of the Forces, for without an adequate Air Force neither the Navy nor the Army could succeed. He moved the indicator to £45,000.
Friday was Miners' Day. Cr P Woodcock suggested as they had raised the money for the five Spitfires as originally intended they should go all out for a bomber. Group Captain Duggan agreed and said now we had gone over to the offensive, bombers were also needed. The indicator was raised to £55,000.
The climax was the Saturday ceremony. Mr J Crerar, the president of the Savings Committee, said the result was astounding. He thanked the ladies and the children, and said he could not have wished for a better set of workers. He announced the total was £80,000, but he added when the accounts were finally made up it could still rise to £100,000.
The final total was declared at £102,770 17s 6d. The main savers were the Prudential Insurance Company £10,100, and the coal company £10,000. The locals did their bit. The council invested £3,300, Ackton Hall Colliery employees £5,279 and the school children raised over £3,000.
At a meeting in the Social Service Centre Major W Morris, the Regional Commissioner for War Savings, thanked the people of Featherstone for their splendid contribution, and as an appreciation of the good work done he presented an illuminated address to Mr J Crerar, the president of the local Savings Committee.
In October at the Social Service Centre a ceremony was held for the presentation to the town of a plaque, seven log books and certificates. Mr G A Charlton, chairman of the Savings Committee, congratulated all who had taken part in such a wonderful achievement, especially the group secretaries and the schoolchildren.
Air Vice-Marshall Tyssen handed over the items (the log books were for five Spitfires and two Halifax bombers). He also gave thanks for the gift of £150 for the RAF Benevolent Fund and for a further £45 promised.
BUS ACCIDENT
A
B & S bus being driven by James Couch of Normanton was bringing 30
night workers home early on a Friday morning in April. It had to pass
road works on Bell Hill, North Featherstone, where the road was about
three feet higher than the field at the side. The bus had to go close to
the edge of the road and the road collapsed causing the bus to overturn
into the field.
First aid was given to the 17 passengers injured, and 15 were taken to
Pontefract General Infirmary. The driver was unhurt. Ten patients were
detained in hospital, but after a few days only Mary Hartshorne of
Ackworth {head injury) and Margaret Farrow of Moor Road (concussion)
remained.
THE ROVERS ANNUAL MEETING
Featherstone Rovers held their annual meeting in the Junction Hotel in
June. The chairman, Mr A Berry, said the the question he was always
being asked was "How do you pay your way?". He emphasised they must, at
all costs, keep the club going, because it was hard to resurrect a club
once it had gone. They had a good set of young lads, now approaching
their best.
Mr
H Littlewood, the secretary, said they had finished half-way in the
league table, and the gate receipts could have been better. He thanked
the Supporters' Club for their ceaseless efforts to raise money, and the
Ladies' Committee which had done much to make visiting teams welcome,
and also raise funds.
They had begun the season with an overdraft of £417, and ended with a
balance of £120. Membership had dropped from 1,038 to 885 due to shift
work and Service calls. There were difficulties with playing tackle, as
new clothing and boots could only be obtained with clothing coupons, and
he asked each member to contribute one coupon for this purpose.
Mr A Bullock was re-elected president unopposed, and as there were no
nominations for the committee the retiring members, Messrs J Graham, E
Colley and S Denton, were re-elected.
A CRICKET CUP FOR THE INFIRMARY
Mr
A Bullock presented a silver cup in July to be played for annually by
the Featherstone and Hemsworth clubs in aid of Pontefract General
Infirmary. The first game was played on the Featherstone cricket ground
and easily won by Featherstone.
Mr Bullock was thanked for his help by the superintendent of the
infirmary, Mr D J Richards. Mr J Crerar, director of the South Kirkby,
Hemsworth and Featherstone Collieries, presented the cup. He referred to
the inadequate payment by employees for the great services rendered by
hospitals, and asked for the consideration of a further penny per week
through their voluntary contributory scheme.
The Express noted
the closure of the Ackton Hall Colliery coke ovens "owing to war
measures" had resulted in the ending of the sick fund, and £13 10s had
been given to the infirmary.
THE AGRICULTURAL SHOW
The
Agricultural Show was revived in July on the Featherstone Rovers ground
after a lapse of several years. The Special Constables were the
organisers, and a big crowd attended who had much interest in the cattle
and horses.
The amount taken at the gate was £273, and donations were over £60. A
competition for a bottle of whisky arranged by the Rovers' Supporters
Club realised over £11. Music was provided by the Featherstone Silver
Prize Band. The proceeds were for the Specials Comforts for the Forces
Fund.
The final accounts showed the total income was £442 16s 10d, and the expenditure, including prize money, was £186 0s 11d, which left a profit for the fund of £256 15s 11d.
Mr A W Dunham of the Ministry of Supply said the effort was to collect books for the troops, books to re-stock war damaged libraries, and books unsuitable for reading to be salvaged for re-pulping. The books for soldiers would have the local name impressed so the soldier getting it would know where it came from.
The local societies and groups would undertake the collection, and it was hoped the schoolchildren would help.
The wardens began collecting, to be followed by the schoolchildren when the schools reopened. A central depot was opened in Station Lane, and there was one at the scouts headquarters in North Featherstone. The main sorting centre was the Social Service Centre in Green Lane. The total number of books collected was 21,500 against a target of 25,000.
The final accounts showed the total income was £442 16s 10d, and the expenditure, including prize money, was £186 0s 11d, which left a profit for the fund of £256 15s 11d.
THE YORKSHIRE BOOK SALVAGE DRIVE
The council organised a meeting for the Yorkshire Book Salvage Drive to
be held from 21 August to 4 September. Those present included
representatives of the Women's Voluntary Service, the War Savings
Committee, Army Cadets, Boy Scouts and Mr J Hilsley, the local salvage
officer. Mr A W Dunham of the Ministry of Supply said the effort was to collect books for the troops, books to re-stock war damaged libraries, and books unsuitable for reading to be salvaged for re-pulping. The books for soldiers would have the local name impressed so the soldier getting it would know where it came from.
The local societies and groups would undertake the collection, and it was hoped the schoolchildren would help.
The wardens began collecting, to be followed by the schoolchildren when the schools reopened. A central depot was opened in Station Lane, and there was one at the scouts headquarters in North Featherstone. The main sorting centre was the Social Service Centre in Green Lane. The total number of books collected was 21,500 against a target of 25,000.
DEATH OF DR STEVEN
Dr
William Steven died in October age 80. He was born in Leatham,
Scotland, and came to Featherstone 57 years ago as assistant to Dr
Buncle. When Dr Buncle died he took over the practice and was joined by
Dr Finch. After the death of Dr Finch he was joined by Dr J Duncan, Dr T
Gardner, and his daughter, Dr M Steven.
He
was the medical officer of health for the council, and formed the child
welfare clinics at Featherstone and Streethouse, which he attended
regularly until his daughter took over. He was the instructor to the St
John Ambulance Brigade and took classes at the collieries and railway
station. In 1927 he was made a Serving Brother of the Order of St John
of Jerusalem.
He
began his career making his rounds on a white pony, then moved on to a
pony and trap; then a cycle. After trying a motorcycle he eventually
went round by car. He claimed in bad weather in his early days he had
ridden his pony along the railway line to Streethouse.
On
the day of his funeral there was a large crowd between his house in
Green Lane and North Featherstone Church. The church was completely
filled and some people had to be turned away.
The
photo below, from the Dr Gatecliff Collection, shows Dr Steven on the
left with colleagues Dr Gardner in the centre and Dr Duncan.
 |
DEATH OF MRS ASQUITH
The
death took place in October of Edith Asquith age 54 of Station Lane.
She was president for many years of the Featherstone Rovers Ladies'
Committee, and her provision of refreshments for visiting teams was
warmly commented on.
She
attended every Rovers game and it was her proud boast she had been on
every rugby league ground in the country, travelling as far afield as
London and Newcastle. She arranged trips to Wembley for the cup final,
which regularly attracted 250 people.
When
the war came she was the first subscriber to the Special Constables'
Comforts for the Forces Fund, a regular helper at the Wardens' functions, and a member of the War Savings Committee. Her husband, Albert, was a guarantor on the Rovers committee.
THE CRICKET CLUB
At the annual meeting of the Featherstone and Purston Cricket, Bowling
and Tennis Club in November regret was expressed at the loss of valued members Mrs
Asquith and Dr Steven who had died, and Mr R Bell, a member of the team
who had died on active service. The team were congratulated for reaching
the top four of the Yorkshire Council competition.
The annual dinner was held at the Junction Hotel in December. The
chairman, Mr G F Golding, said he wished the public support was as good
as the team. He said they had the finest ladies' committee in the
Yorkshire Council, and a fine secretary in Mr S Denton. Mr A Bullock
handed out the prizes to the players, and the occasion ended with a
concert.
1943 NEWS ITEMS
MARCH
There was a fire at the North Featherstone farm of Messrs W E Hough and
Son. The fire brigade tackled a timber shed containing fertilizer. The
shed was ruined but most of the fertilizer was saved. The brigade
prevented the flames spreading to a nearby Dutch barn.
Robert Simons of Woodlesford was riding a motor cycle on Ackworth Road and he collided with a bus at the junction with Hall Street and was killed. The coroner recorded a verdict of death by misadventure.
Robert Simons of Woodlesford was riding a motor cycle on Ackworth Road and he collided with a bus at the junction with Hall Street and was killed. The coroner recorded a verdict of death by misadventure.
APRIL Janet Irene Townend age 21 months of Sunnylea, Park Lane, fell into a tub containing six inches of water and was drowned. Her handkerchief was in the tub and it was assumed she had been trying to get it out. The inquest coroner recorded a verdict of death by misadventure.
The efforts for the hospital charity realised over £110. Donations were made to Pontefract General Infirmary, Leeds General Infirmary, Clayton Hospital, Leeds Hospital for Women, St John Ambulance Brigade, Devonshire Hospital at Buxton, and Harrogate Royal Baths Hospital,
The regional transport commissioner refused to sanction a special bus to take Featherstone Silver Prize Band to a band contest at Bradford.
MAY The Women's Junior Air Corps visited a Yorkshire RAF Station where they inspected various types of aircraft and went inside a Wellington bomber. They saw a glider take off and land, a bicycle dropped by parachute, and the drying and packing of parachutes.
The newly-formed Featherstone and District Choral Society gave their first public performance in the Featherstone Lane Methodist Church Hall in front of a large audience.
Castleford RLFC had closed down for the duration of the war, so the Rovers played a team of Yorkshire volunteer players for the Lyon Cup in aid of Pontefract General Infirmary. The attendance was 1,000.
The management committee of the George Street Youth Club decided to consider re-opening on Monday and Friday evenings after the local police asked for the help of the club in combating the large amount of wanton damage done by youths.
Empire Youth Sunday was observed by a parade from Cressey's Corner to the Purston Methodist Church. It included the Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, Civil Defence Messengers, Army Cadets, Air Training Corps, Women's Junior Air Corps, Salvation Army and the Sunday Schools.
The annual collection for St Dunstan's realised over £70 and included a collection at the Hippodrome. The organiser was Mrs Steven.
The Featherstone Rovers players entertained the committee to dinner at the Junction Hotel for the tenth year. A "war-time repast" was served by Mr and Mrs G Johnson.
Mr S Goodwin of Wentbridge Road, a deputy at Ackton Hall Colliery, was presented with the Life Saving Certificate of the Yorkshire Collieries Ambulance League for skill and speed in rescuing a pony driver, Amos Todd of Girnhill Lane, who had been severely injured. Dr Robson of Pontefract General Infirmary said Mr Goodwin, by giving first aid and arranging a stretcher team for the two mile journey underground, saved the life of the driver.
Edgar Bryan age 25 of Albert Street was killed by a fall of roof at Ackton Hall Colliery. At the inquest the coroner said "This is one of the very few cases in which I feel satisfied in saying the accident was completely unavoidable" and recorded a verdict of death by misadventure.
JUNE The Ackton Hall Colliery ambulance team won the Supt Riley Efficiency Shield at Wakefield Rescue Station for the most efficient team work done by teams training at the station. The team was W A Haigh (captain), E Fearnside, L Price, G W Price, E Carr and H Dyer.
On the last day of June the Ackton Hall Colliery coke ovens and by-products plant closed down by order of the Government under the Ackton Hall Colliery Co. Ltd (Carbonisation of Coal) Order 1943. The Express did not give a reason why.
An inquest was held into the death of George Henry Collett age 72 of Pretoria Street. Harry Wilson of Wentbridge Road said he saw Collett fall off his cycle in Ackworth Road and strike his head against an electric standard. He was taken unconscious to Pontefract General Infirmary where he died of pneumonia. Evidence was given that Collett sometimes had attacks of dizziness, and the coroner decided this was the probable cause of the fall.
JULY The fire brigade was called out five times in one week. Three were outside the Featherstone area and the others were in Granville Street and Chapel Street but the damage was only minor.
AUGUST Featherstone Rovers appealed for clothing coupons. Tackle for the new season had been obtained but the coupons had to be provided before it could be delivered. The President of the Board of Trade said there would be no special issue for the purpose, but members could give their own coupons.
The training centre for new entrants to the mining industry at Ackworth Pit was visited by Mr T F Turner, the Ministry of Fuel and Power officer in charge of recruitment and training.
The Salvation Army held an "At Home" with a social afternoon in the Social Service Centre and a concert in the evening. The next day the Featherstone Corps Band gave two concerts in Purston Park.
The Hunslet club did not play last season but decided to play this one, so they arranged a pre-season game at Hunslet with the Rovers for the Lazenby Cup. The proceeds were divided between Leeds and Pontefract Infirmaries. The Rovers won 12-11.
SEPTEMBER The decision was made to open the George Street Youth Club on Monday and Friday evenings. It was already open for girls on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and for boys on Thursdays. The extra days would be for both.
An inquest was held on Walter Hartley age 23 of Fearnley Street who collapsed and died in Walton Colliery. Evidence was given he had been struck in the abdomen by a lump of coal the previous day, but a post mortem found no sign of injury, and death was due to meningitis, The coroner returned a verdict of natural causes.
In competitions held at Barnsley and Harrogate, Pat Wilson of Purston gained a medal and three honours certificates for ballet, character tap, and musical comedy dancing.
An inquest was held into the death of Ethel Ayre age 20 of Sunny Royd, Green Lane. Her mother said Ethel went to work from 8am to 6pm and then went to a dance at Pontefract at 7.30. She stayed overnight with friends in Pontefract but became ill. A doctor was sent for but she died. Dr M Steven said she had attended her since 1941. The valves of the heart were diseased and it was gradually weakening. In her opinion the day's work followed by a dance was too much for her. The coroner recorded a verdict of death due to syncope caused by over-exertion.
OCTOBER The British Legion held their annual general meeting at the Jubilee Hotel. Mr H Maxwell, the chairman, reported an increase in membership from 90 to 124. During the year several members were helped with groceries and clothing.
An inquest was held in Wakefield Town Hall on William Wilman age 64 of Featherstone Square who collapsed and died while talking to another workmate near the top of the shaft at Snydale Colliery. The verdict was natural causes.
NOVEMBER The British Legion's Poppy Day appeal, organised by the women's section, realised over £100. It was the fifth year in succession the amount had increased.
DECEMBER Both Christmas dances in the Lister Hall attracted an attendance of over 500. The Special Constables held theirs on Christmas Eve and were followed by Featherstone Rovers on Boxing Day.
The Featherstone and District Choral Society gave a performance of Haydn's oratorio The Creation in Purston Methodist Church. It was their first oratorio performance, and as it was a success they hoped to make it an annual production.
The New Year's Eve dance in the Lister Hall organised by the Cricket Club was attended by 600 dancers who joined hands to sing Auld Lang Syne at midnight.