A HISTORY OF FEATHERSTONE
1949
JOHN SUGDEN BURNELL BEM
John Sugden Burnell age 77 of Wakefield Road was awarded the British
Empire Medal in the New Year's Honours List. He started work at the age
of 13 at Snydale Colliery as a deputy's boy, and later moved to Ackton
Hall Colliery where he worked for 54 years and for over 40 years he was a
deputy. He retired a week before Christmas last year.
He was a sidesman at Purston Parish Church for many years, and every week for 32 years he had cleaned the big brass eagle which decorated the lectern in the church.
He was a sidesman at Purston Parish Church for many years, and every week for 32 years he had cleaned the big brass eagle which decorated the lectern in the church.
PRESENTATIONS
In February at the Junction Hotel a ceremony was arranged by the local
Association of Colliery Overmen, Deputies and Shotfirers for the
presentations to be made to three men associated with Ackton Hall
Colliery. Mr J S Burnell BEM and Mr A Haigh (both deputies with long
service and now retired) received an inscribed gold watch,and Mr J
Hilton, ex-undermanager at the colliery and promoted to manager at
Whitwood and Saville Collieries, received an oak striking clock. Mr J E
Nelson, ex-manager of the colliery, and promoted last year to be
technical dispues officer for the local area of the NCB, was also
present.
THE COUNCIL
JANUARY
Arrangements were made to start work on 22 houses on the Halfpenny
Lane site. The contractors were asked to minimise the falling of clay
and rubble from vehicles. Consideration was deferred on a request from
the Leatham Park Estate Children's Fund to remove rubble from the estate
green and reset and roll it.
The Hope Manufacturing Company, working in the upstairs room at the Green Lane Club, wanted to build a factory behind the club. The Ministry of Works refused permission because it was not an exporting company, and the expansion of the clothing industry was not vital at present. The company objected and were backed by Featherstone Council and Normanton MP Mr G O Sylvester.
The Hope Manufacturing Company, working in the upstairs room at the Green Lane Club, wanted to build a factory behind the club. The Ministry of Works refused permission because it was not an exporting company, and the expansion of the clothing industry was not vital at present. The company objected and were backed by Featherstone Council and Normanton MP Mr G O Sylvester.
On
the dangerous practice of young people roller-skating on public
footpaths, it was pointed out the council could not take any action.
The council agreed to make a compulsory purchase order for the land
owned by Mr O C Killingbeck of Manor Farm so a dining hut could be
erected for Purston School.
FEBRUARY
Edwin Hirst of St Thomas Road was in the council yard removing the lid
of a large disinfectant container with an oxyacetylene torch when it
exploded. Four windows in a nearby garage were shattered, and Mr Hirst
was taken to Pontefract General Infirmary suffering from concussion and a
lacerated forehead.
The surveyor, Mr G F Adamson, replying to complaints about too much
sewage, said there had been no complaints by the Rivers Board, but the
works would have to be reconstructed in the near future. The Spooner
houses on the Halfpenny Lane housing site were to be named Alexander
Crescent.
MARCH
The district auditor's report mentioned the state of the housing
repairs account and said the council might find it necessary to raise
rents. The Ministry was to be asked for permission to demolish the air
raid shelter in Albert Street because it was a public nuisance and
detrimental to public health.
The Trussed Concrete Street Company said the specifications for the
water tower would be ready within two weeks to enable to council to
invite tenders.
In the by-election caused by the death of Cr J B Fennell nearly 66%
voted. Mr J Harper, the official Labour candidate received 381 votes,
and Mr S F Gascoyne, Independent Labour, polled 350.
APRIL The Ministry of Works confirmed its decision to refuse permission to build a clothing factory behind the Green Lane Club. The resignation of Mr F Scott as baths superintendent was accepted. He was going to Letchworth to an open-air swimming pool. The council house rents were increased to rectify the deficit in the housing repair account. Six applications to build private dwelling houses were approved. These were the first private licences to be granted since 1939.
MAY The voting in the council elections was:
South Ward W Griffiths (Labour) 473, C B Roberts (Ind. Labour) 119, H Dobson (Independent) 50.
Purston Ward E Rowley (Labour) 1,080, W H Roberts (Ind. Labour) 702.
North Ward C J Williams (Labour) 877, J E Graham (Ind. Labour) 530.
Ackton and Snydale Ward T Morgan (Labour) unopposed.
MAY The voting in the council elections was:
South Ward W Griffiths (Labour) 473, C B Roberts (Ind. Labour) 119, H Dobson (Independent) 50.
Purston Ward E Rowley (Labour) 1,080, W H Roberts (Ind. Labour) 702.
North Ward C J Williams (Labour) 877, J E Graham (Ind. Labour) 530.
Ackton and Snydale Ward T Morgan (Labour) unopposed.
The council agreed to build a house in Purston Park for the clerk, Mr H
Tattersall. Crs Darnton and Woodcock were against the proposal, but the
other councillors passed it. Jack Black age 21 of Pontefract was
appointed baths superintendent at the Lister Baths.
JUNE
Cr Rowley objected to the policy of building 42 houses on the Purston
Estate with only two bedrooms, but the council decided to stick to its
decision.
JULY
Cr Rowley had another go at altering the housing policy by submitting a
resolution to rescind the previous decision, supported by three other
councillors. He said there were enough two bedroom houses, and two
bedroom bungalows for old people would suite the council best, and would
free up family houses for others. When put to the vote it was five
each, and the chairman gave his casting vote against, so Cr Rowley lost
again.
SEPTEMBER A quantity of bacon and other gifts had been received and the council proposed a distribution in accordance with previous arrangements. It was decided to cease farming at South Featherstone Farm because of heavy financial losses. The farm implements would be sold and the farm would be let.
Because of a water shortage, Wakefield Corporation asked the local authorities it supplied to achieve a reduction in consumption of 25%. The council decided to split its area into two parts using the railway lines as the divider, and they would alternate with the water supply cut off for four days, and the residents would have to use stand pipes. People should not store water during normal supply periods, and everyone should practice strict economy. Doctors, butchers, bakers, fish and chip shops and other food producing establishments were exempt.
OCTOBER Nearly 1,000 people applied for the Food for Britain Fund from Nairobi in Kenya. The distribution was made over three days. The first few days of the water rationing were declared a success, but Cr Rowley complained some people were deliberately leaving standpipes running.
Leeds Regional Hospital Board said Purston Hall was not big enough to be converted into a maternity home. Norman C Ashton Ltd were given permission for 23 houses in Featherstone Lane. The council considered the cost involved did not warrant the collection of waste paper and kitchen waste.
Eventually heavy rain ended the drought. The council surveyor told the Express if the rain continues further rationing was unlikely. The rationing system had resulted in a saving of 28%.
Leeds Regional Hospital Board said Purston Hall was not big enough to be converted into a maternity home. Norman C Ashton Ltd were given permission for 23 houses in Featherstone Lane. The council considered the cost involved did not warrant the collection of waste paper and kitchen waste.
Eventually heavy rain ended the drought. The council surveyor told the Express if the rain continues further rationing was unlikely. The rationing system had resulted in a saving of 28%.
NOVEMBER
The council said they did not agree with the Leeds Regional Hospital
Board converting Ackton Hospital to a maternity home because the nearest
infectious diseases hospital would be Burtwood Hospital at Brierley.
Tenants in council houses who kept cockerels in their gardens would be told to dispose of them immediately or notice to quit would be issued. The sale of farm equipment realised ££926. Funerals would no longer be allowed on Saturday afternoons or Sundays. Mr Bell of Brough's Stores was thanked for slicing 90 lbs of bacon received from overseas into 720 parcels.
DECEMBER The housing committee approved a layout plan for 100 three bedroom houses and 44 bungalows for North Featherstone. There was concern at the delay in the completion of plans for the water tower at North Featherstone.
Tenants in council houses who kept cockerels in their gardens would be told to dispose of them immediately or notice to quit would be issued. The sale of farm equipment realised ££926. Funerals would no longer be allowed on Saturday afternoons or Sundays. Mr Bell of Brough's Stores was thanked for slicing 90 lbs of bacon received from overseas into 720 parcels.
DECEMBER The housing committee approved a layout plan for 100 three bedroom houses and 44 bungalows for North Featherstone. There was concern at the delay in the completion of plans for the water tower at North Featherstone.
GAS SHOWROOM OPENS
The Ackworth, Featherstone, Purston and Sharlston Gas Company opened a showroom in Station Lane in March. The opening ceremony was performed by Cr A Evans, chairman of the council. The Express commented the property had been almost derelict for many years, and now contained a showroom on the ground floor, and a kitchen and demonstration theatre on the first floor.
Cr Evans welcomed the showroom as being a brightening influence on Station Lane. He recalled the days when everyone thought Featherstone was done for after the closure of Featherstone Main Colliery in 1935. In the last three years a miracle had happened in Featherstone. The transformation was due largely to the nationalisation of the coal industry, which gave miners security of employment and a decent reward for their labours. New industries had come to the town, and the result was more trade was being done in Station Lane than ever before. The Lane itself, with its brightly painted shops, looked better than it had ever done. The gas showroom is on the right of this photo from the Dr Gatecliff Collection.
Cr Evans welcomed the showroom as being a brightening influence on Station Lane. He recalled the days when everyone thought Featherstone was done for after the closure of Featherstone Main Colliery in 1935. In the last three years a miracle had happened in Featherstone. The transformation was due largely to the nationalisation of the coal industry, which gave miners security of employment and a decent reward for their labours. New industries had come to the town, and the result was more trade was being done in Station Lane than ever before. The Lane itself, with its brightly painted shops, looked better than it had ever done. The gas showroom is on the right of this photo from the Dr Gatecliff Collection.
KATINKA
The Express congratulated the members on the choice of a little know musical which it said was refreshing. The musical numbers were not as well known as others but they provided some tuneful songs and picturesque dances which were excellently interpreted by the principals and a capable chorus. The photo is from the Tony Lumb Collection.
The cast, officials and helpers spent an evening in Wordsworth's Cafe, Pontefract, in April for a celebration dinner and dance.
A joint event by the society and the Miners' Welfare took place in May in the Welfare. From the proceeds of Katinka Mr A Bullock presented cheques for £51 each to the Welfare and the St John Ambulance Brigade. He also presented awards to members of the Miners' Welfare Boys' Boxing Club, and the St John Ambulance Brigade.
The company was then entertained by members of the musical society with excerpts from Katinka and previous shows.
The cast, officials and helpers spent an evening in Wordsworth's Cafe, Pontefract, in April for a celebration dinner and dance.
A joint event by the society and the Miners' Welfare took place in May in the Welfare. From the proceeds of Katinka Mr A Bullock presented cheques for £51 each to the Welfare and the St John Ambulance Brigade. He also presented awards to members of the Miners' Welfare Boys' Boxing Club, and the St John Ambulance Brigade.
The company was then entertained by members of the musical society with excerpts from Katinka and previous shows.
THE ROVERS
For the 17th successive year, under the chairmanship of trainer Billy Williams, the players entertained the committee and friends to dinner at the Junction Hotel in May. The chairman said he thought the gathering was unique in the Rugby League.
The club secretary, Mr W G Ward, said the season's record was an improvement on the previous year, with some extremely good displays, but some disappointing ones. He saw no reason why the Rovers should not progress during the next few years. Unfortunately the money did not seem to come in, but he was sure the club would survive. It was one of the very few clubs in which a local lad got a chance to make good.
Cr A S Dobson, a local Rugby League referee, said although he was not able to watch the team play often he heard a lot about them from all quarters. He thought the Featherstone team would do better if the team selection was left to one man, and certainly not more than three.
Mr J Jepson admitted the club was in a bit of a fix, but declared there was no intention of closing down. Fifty years from now the Featherstone flag would still be flying.
The club secretary, Mr W G Ward, said the season's record was an improvement on the previous year, with some extremely good displays, but some disappointing ones. He saw no reason why the Rovers should not progress during the next few years. Unfortunately the money did not seem to come in, but he was sure the club would survive. It was one of the very few clubs in which a local lad got a chance to make good.
Cr A S Dobson, a local Rugby League referee, said although he was not able to watch the team play often he heard a lot about them from all quarters. He thought the Featherstone team would do better if the team selection was left to one man, and certainly not more than three.
Mr J Jepson admitted the club was in a bit of a fix, but declared there was no intention of closing down. Fifty years from now the Featherstone flag would still be flying.
Mr R H Jackson, in reply to Mr Dobson's suggestion, pointed out the clubs where a one-man selector functioned had a very different financial structure from Featherstone Rovers. He did agree the committee was too large, but it included a large number of guarantors who had come forward to help the finances of the club.
A loss of £670 on the 1948/49 season was reported. The balance sheet showed the Rugby League loan in 1926 had again been reduced by the agreed £100 and was now down to £1,050.
The annual general meeting was held at the Junction Hotel in June. The secretary, Mr W G Ward who was leaving for a post at Rugby League HQ, said there had been a heavy crop of injuries, and alleged on more than one occasion the team had been roughly handled by heavier opponents. Some of the exhibitions of refereeing were beyond understanding, and there was a woeful lack of consistency that left most people completely baffled.
He praised the work of the coach, Bill Sherwood, and said the loyalty of the majority of the players was at times something to be marvelled at, for Featherstone was not one of the fashionable clubs by present-day standards.
The financial plight of the club was a nightmare. The club needed £200 from each home game to balance the budget, yet there were many games of less than £100 last season - and in good weather.
A loss of £670 on the 1948/49 season was reported. The balance sheet showed the Rugby League loan in 1926 had again been reduced by the agreed £100 and was now down to £1,050.
The annual general meeting was held at the Junction Hotel in June. The secretary, Mr W G Ward who was leaving for a post at Rugby League HQ, said there had been a heavy crop of injuries, and alleged on more than one occasion the team had been roughly handled by heavier opponents. Some of the exhibitions of refereeing were beyond understanding, and there was a woeful lack of consistency that left most people completely baffled.
He praised the work of the coach, Bill Sherwood, and said the loyalty of the majority of the players was at times something to be marvelled at, for Featherstone was not one of the fashionable clubs by present-day standards.
The financial plight of the club was a nightmare. The club needed £200 from each home game to balance the budget, yet there were many games of less than £100 last season - and in good weather.
Mr J Caulfield, for the supporters' club suggested money raised in future should be spent on improving the ground. A brick built entrance to the ground and more terracing were only two of the jobs which required doing. There was £800 in the ground improvement fund, and one idea was to build some covered accommodation on the popular side.
Messrs A Haigh, S Denton and A Evans sought re-election to the committee, but were defeated by Messrs F G Smith, F Hodgson and A E Derry.
The customary Boxing Day dance was held in the Lister Baths with about 400 people attending.
Messrs A Haigh, S Denton and A Evans sought re-election to the committee, but were defeated by Messrs F G Smith, F Hodgson and A E Derry.
The customary Boxing Day dance was held in the Lister Baths with about 400 people attending.
HOLIDAYS AT HOME
A programme of events was arranged in July by the Miners' Welfare Institute. Children's Day on the Monday was in conjunction with the council and was held in the cricket field. There was a sports competition for the schools, a police road safety display, fireworks in the evening and music by the Ackton Hall and Snydale Collieries Band.
Tuesday was to be adult sports day but it was cancelled owing to lack of entries. A gymkhana was held on Wednesday in a field off Ackworth Road. There were about 100 competitors from Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, and a large crowd enjoyed the four hours of the show.
A variety concert was held in the Welfare Hall on Thursday and attracted a large audience. It was given by a party from Leeds. Over 400 people attended a dance on Friday. The hall was decorated with balloons and streamers, and there were paper hats for the dancers.
The week ended on Saturday with an agricultural and horticultural show on the Rovers ground. In perfect weather the total attendance of 1,000 was disappointing as it included hundreds of competitors and officials. Exhibitors came from all over the country, and those with goats arrived on Friday and camped overnight.
Tuesday was to be adult sports day but it was cancelled owing to lack of entries. A gymkhana was held on Wednesday in a field off Ackworth Road. There were about 100 competitors from Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, and a large crowd enjoyed the four hours of the show.
A variety concert was held in the Welfare Hall on Thursday and attracted a large audience. It was given by a party from Leeds. Over 400 people attended a dance on Friday. The hall was decorated with balloons and streamers, and there were paper hats for the dancers.
The week ended on Saturday with an agricultural and horticultural show on the Rovers ground. In perfect weather the total attendance of 1,000 was disappointing as it included hundreds of competitors and officials. Exhibitors came from all over the country, and those with goats arrived on Friday and camped overnight.
THE LEATHAM ESTATE AND WELLGREEN CARNIVALS
The Leatham Estate held its first carnival in August. The procession around the estate was headed by the Ackton Hall and Snydale Collieries Band. The carnival queen (Brenda Davis) and her attendants were on a decorated dray followed by the Girl Guides and Brownies, Girls' Life Brigade, St John Ambulance Brigade, decorated lorries, fancy dress competitors and a comic band.
Over 450 children and old people were served with tea, ice cream and sweets, there were sports and competitions for all ages, and in the evening there was a gymnastics display by the Girls Life Brigade, and a dancing display by Miss J Westbrook's pupils. The photo, with the queen in the middle, is from the Dr Gatecliff Collection.
Over 450 children and old people were served with tea, ice cream and sweets, there were sports and competitions for all ages, and in the evening there was a gymnastics display by the Girls Life Brigade, and a dancing display by Miss J Westbrook's pupils. The photo, with the queen in the middle, is from the Dr Gatecliff Collection.
The Wellgreen Carnival was held the week after. Maureen Garner was crowned queen and she toured the district on a decorated dray followed by a procession of fancy dress competitors. There was a sports programme in the afternoon and a tea for the children. In the evening there was open air dancing.
PURSTON CHURCH ORGAN
In October 300 people congregated in Purston Church to celebrate the restoration of the organ. It had not been played for two years, and had been rebuilt and greatly enlarged at a cost of £890. During that time a piano had been used.
The Bishop of Wakefield, Dr R P Wilson dedicated the organ and said its restoration was to make more glorious their praises, and they should not sit back and let it do all the work. Later in the church school the vicar, Revd I O Jay, thanked all who had subscribed to the organ fund, and the choirs for the way they had sung during the absence of the organ.
The Bishop of Wakefield, Dr R P Wilson dedicated the organ and said its restoration was to make more glorious their praises, and they should not sit back and let it do all the work. Later in the church school the vicar, Revd I O Jay, thanked all who had subscribed to the organ fund, and the choirs for the way they had sung during the absence of the organ.
THE CRICKET CLUB
The annual dinner of the Featherstone and Purston Cricket, Tennis and Bowling Club was held at the Junction Hotel in December. The president, Mr A E England, said the chairman, Mr E C Jordan who was absent, had resigned because of advancing years, and he had been made the club's first life member. He thanked members and officials for their support, and the Women's Committee, without whose work he thought the club would not be able to continue. A loss of £107 had been turned into a profit of £13. The cost of running the club was £21 a week, but the gate receipts from Yorkshire Council matches were only £25 a season.
The Town was again proposed by Dr J Duncan who congratulated the council on its housing achievements, particularly because it had not forgotten the old people. He urged the speedy return of Purston Park to its real use as a children's playing area.
The council chairman, Cr H Woodcock, said 400 families had been housed at Featherstone and 200 more would be accommodated next year. Entertainment was provided by Messrs H Stacey and J V Windmill, who were accompanied by Mrs R Blackburn.
The annual dance was held on Friday 30 December so for the first time for a number of years there was no Father Time alias Mr H Mason. There were about 400 dancers.
The Town was again proposed by Dr J Duncan who congratulated the council on its housing achievements, particularly because it had not forgotten the old people. He urged the speedy return of Purston Park to its real use as a children's playing area.
The council chairman, Cr H Woodcock, said 400 families had been housed at Featherstone and 200 more would be accommodated next year. Entertainment was provided by Messrs H Stacey and J V Windmill, who were accompanied by Mrs R Blackburn.
The annual dance was held on Friday 30 December so for the first time for a number of years there was no Father Time alias Mr H Mason. There were about 400 dancers.
1949 NEWS ITEMS
JANUARY Featherstone's rugby league referee, Albert Dobson, spent ten days in France at the request of the French Rugby League. He advised on problems met in France at a conference of French referees in Marseilles, and refereed the France v Australian Tourists game.
The West Riding County Council offered to rent the Social Service Centre as a full-time youth centre, to become the focal point for all youth clubs in the district. A special meeting at the centre decided to adjourn the matter for six months in the hope the centre could be made self-supporting. Some at the meeting warned about finances which had suffered since the Barclays Bank group had ended their support. It was agreed to try and raise £100 in the six months.
Cr John B Fennell of The Green, Purston, was injured by a fall of roof at Ackton Hall Colliery. He was taken to Pontefract General Infirmary where he later died.
FEBRUARY A 12 year old boy was in court at Pontefract accused of firing paper pellets with a catapult in the Hippodrome Cinema and hitting six year old Barry Turner of Fearnley Street in the eye. Dr Duncan said the injury was so severe the eye may have to be removed. Because it was revealed a number of boys were firing catapults the magistrates dismissed the summons because they could not be sure the defendant was responsible.
Mr Percy Atkinson of Hall View, Purston, was awarded the Imperial Service Medal of the Civil Service. He began work as a messenger boy and then became a postman. He retired last December on reaching the age of 65 but was retained as a temporary postman. He said he dfd not remember missing a single day through illness.
The West Riding County Council offered to rent the Social Service Centre as a full-time youth centre, to become the focal point for all youth clubs in the district. A special meeting at the centre decided to adjourn the matter for six months in the hope the centre could be made self-supporting. Some at the meeting warned about finances which had suffered since the Barclays Bank group had ended their support. It was agreed to try and raise £100 in the six months.
Cr John B Fennell of The Green, Purston, was injured by a fall of roof at Ackton Hall Colliery. He was taken to Pontefract General Infirmary where he later died.
FEBRUARY A 12 year old boy was in court at Pontefract accused of firing paper pellets with a catapult in the Hippodrome Cinema and hitting six year old Barry Turner of Fearnley Street in the eye. Dr Duncan said the injury was so severe the eye may have to be removed. Because it was revealed a number of boys were firing catapults the magistrates dismissed the summons because they could not be sure the defendant was responsible.
Mr Percy Atkinson of Hall View, Purston, was awarded the Imperial Service Medal of the Civil Service. He began work as a messenger boy and then became a postman. He retired last December on reaching the age of 65 but was retained as a temporary postman. He said he dfd not remember missing a single day through illness.
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| The Imperial Service Medal. A photo from the internet. |
There was a challenge as to who could eat the most whelks between Mr Cooper of Pontefract and Mr T Saunders of Featherstone to be held in the Railway Hotel. Mr Cooper turned up and ate a considerable number, but Mr Saunders failed to arrive and his stake was forfeited.
The Hospital Ball committee decided to continue even though the new National Health Service made its original concept redundant. It would now be called the Benevolent Fund. Donations were given to local organisations instead. The Social Service Centre received £50, and the St John Ambulance Brigade and the United Charities were given £25 each.
The Hospital Ball committee decided to continue even though the new National Health Service made its original concept redundant. It would now be called the Benevolent Fund. Donations were given to local organisations instead. The Social Service Centre received £50, and the St John Ambulance Brigade and the United Charities were given £25 each.
There was widespread fog for days in January. William March age 37 of Station Lane was riding a motor cycle in Sewerbridge Lane when he collided with a lorry and was killed. At the inquest a witness said the visibility was only about 15 yards and the rider was going pretty fast for the weather. The jury decided it was death by misadventure.
The Purston Police Station won the Pontefract Police Division ambulance competition for the third year in succession. Police Sergeant R Bell, recently transferred from Castleford, captained the team, and the other members were PC's Stones, Murray and Guffick. The photo is from the Dr Gatecliff Collection.
The Purston Police Station won the Pontefract Police Division ambulance competition for the third year in succession. Police Sergeant R Bell, recently transferred from Castleford, captained the team, and the other members were PC's Stones, Murray and Guffick. The photo is from the Dr Gatecliff Collection.
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A cat got itself stranded at the top of a telephone pole at Day's Farm, and after loud mewing it was rescued by means of a ladder by Mr K Cooke, a farm worker.
MARCH The fat in the chip pan in Mr J Murray's fried fish shop in Green Lane overheated, boiled over and caught fire. He used salt and sand to control it until the fire brigade arrived. The damage was only minor.
Long service badges, designed by the National Union of Mineworkers, were presented to 127 veterans of Ackton Hall Colliery at the Welfare Hall. Mr J E Nelson, a former manager, congratulated the "Old-timers".
William Clayton age 32 of Airedale was fatally wounded in an explosion at Snydale Colliery. He was taken to Pontefract General Infirmary where he died shortly after admission. Cigarettes and matches were found in Clayton's clothes, and a partly burnt cigarette was found at the scene. The inquest jury decided he died from shock and toxaemia caused by burns after an explosion ignited by himself.
APRIL A 36 inch motor mower arrived at the cricket field. It was a gift from the women's section and cost £240.
Joan Margaret Rollason, the infant daughter of Mr and Mrs Rollason of The Bungalows, Purston, received two pink cot blankets from Princess Elizabeth. They were from a consignment of 200 given by New South Wales, Australia, to Prince Charles. The recipients were chosen by lot at a WVS function by the Princess.
Know your region, a programme on the BBC's Children's Hour had an episode about Featherstone. It was presented by Wilfred Pickles, and the script was written by Mr J R Finch of Station Lane.
Joan Margaret Rollason, the infant daughter of Mr and Mrs Rollason of The Bungalows, Purston, received two pink cot blankets from Princess Elizabeth. They were from a consignment of 200 given by New South Wales, Australia, to Prince Charles. The recipients were chosen by lot at a WVS function by the Princess.
Know your region, a programme on the BBC's Children's Hour had an episode about Featherstone. It was presented by Wilfred Pickles, and the script was written by Mr J R Finch of Station Lane.
The Electors and Ratepayers' Association met at the Social Service Centre. It was said some members had lost faith in the movement because of opposition to, and criticism of the association. It was agreed any member of the association contesting an election must describe himself as an "Independent".
MAY A box type trailer owned by Mr J Baker of Station Lane broke away from its tractor unit and ran back down Featherstone Lane. It swung into the entrance to Day's Farm "as neatly as if it had been backed in" and stopped. It was jacked up and reunited with the tractor unit and continued on its journey.
The residents of Leatham Park Estate held a bonfire and fireworks display last year. They decided to carry on and arrange a summer carnival and sports day for about 450 children.
JUNE Brenda Davis age 12 was selected from nearly 50 entrants as carnival queen for the Leatham Park Estate carnival. She later went to Roundhay Park, Leeds, with the sewing class of the Gospel Hall and fell several feet down a waterfall. She was detained in Leeds General Infirmary.
The women's section of the Social Service Centre held a garden party in the grounds of Woodbury, the home of the president of the section Mrs E P Bullock. About 250 people attended and the event raised over £40, which saw the unofficial six month's target of £100 passed.
The residents of Leatham Park Estate held a bonfire and fireworks display last year. They decided to carry on and arrange a summer carnival and sports day for about 450 children.
JUNE Brenda Davis age 12 was selected from nearly 50 entrants as carnival queen for the Leatham Park Estate carnival. She later went to Roundhay Park, Leeds, with the sewing class of the Gospel Hall and fell several feet down a waterfall. She was detained in Leeds General Infirmary.
The women's section of the Social Service Centre held a garden party in the grounds of Woodbury, the home of the president of the section Mrs E P Bullock. About 250 people attended and the event raised over £40, which saw the unofficial six month's target of £100 passed.
JULY The Featherstone Methodist Council arranged their first gala since before the war. The procession started at Stanley Street and ended at Manor House Farm, Purston. It was headed by the Salvation Army Band and there were tableaux and scholars from all the Sunday Schools. Bridget Winter of the Wilson Street Methodist Church was crowned as queen. There were dancing displays, music by the band, and carriage and pony rides.
Mr A F Blackburn, headmaster of George Street Junior School, awarded prizes annually for 100% attendances. Brian Pagdin of Maxwell Street completed three years without a single absence, the first boy to do this since the scheme was inaugurated seven years ago.
Barbara Bingley was crowned Carnival Queen for the North Featherstone and Ackton Children's and Old Folk's Treat. There was the usual procession around the area which included a comic band from Doncaster and fancy dress competitors. Later there were sports, a punch and judy show, and tea for the children. The old folk had their tea in the school.
Mr A F Blackburn, headmaster of George Street Junior School, awarded prizes annually for 100% attendances. Brian Pagdin of Maxwell Street completed three years without a single absence, the first boy to do this since the scheme was inaugurated seven years ago.
Barbara Bingley was crowned Carnival Queen for the North Featherstone and Ackton Children's and Old Folk's Treat. There was the usual procession around the area which included a comic band from Doncaster and fancy dress competitors. Later there were sports, a punch and judy show, and tea for the children. The old folk had their tea in the school.
AUGUST A party of Featherstone people including Miss J Alexander visited the Sailors' Orphans' Homes at Newlands in Hull, for which they arranged collections in Featherstone. They had lunch at the homes and then visited the docks where they were entertained to tea by the captain of the City of Chester and his wife.
Members of the Featherstone Boy Scouts camped for 10 days at Bolton Abbey accompanied by the vicar Revd H R Haworth and the lay reader, Brother Gregory. It was the first camp since the troop was revived last September.
Abel Leverton age 73 of Halfpenny Lane was fatally crushed between a tub and the side of the roadway at Ackton Hall Colliery. The inquest jury decided it was accidental death.
James William Simpson age 32 a trainee miner of Victoria Street was killed in an accident at Ackton Hall Colliery. The coroner adjourned the inquest for six weeks.
Members of the Featherstone Boy Scouts camped for 10 days at Bolton Abbey accompanied by the vicar Revd H R Haworth and the lay reader, Brother Gregory. It was the first camp since the troop was revived last September.
Abel Leverton age 73 of Halfpenny Lane was fatally crushed between a tub and the side of the roadway at Ackton Hall Colliery. The inquest jury decided it was accidental death.
James William Simpson age 32 a trainee miner of Victoria Street was killed in an accident at Ackton Hall Colliery. The coroner adjourned the inquest for six weeks.
SEPTEMBER The lay reader at St Peter's Mission Church, Brother G R Marwood Watson, announced he would be leaving Featherstone for the sake of his health. He was in charge of the Sunday School where the membership had risen from 25 to 130 since he came.
The inquest jury at the resumed inquest on James Simpson decided death was because of a fall of roof, and it was misadventure.
OCTOBER At the annual meeting of the British Legion in the Featherstone Hotel it was reported the membership was 431, the highest it had been. Several cases of ex-servicemen not covered by normal pensions had been helped out at a cost of £233.
People with flags were invited to fly them for National Savings Week by the Featherstone Savings Committee.
The Miners' Welfare Youth Club was formed for youths over 15 years of age who had left school. Activities included table tennis, PT, boxing, ballroom dancing and billiards. The fee was 5s per session.
The inquest jury at the resumed inquest on James Simpson decided death was because of a fall of roof, and it was misadventure.
OCTOBER At the annual meeting of the British Legion in the Featherstone Hotel it was reported the membership was 431, the highest it had been. Several cases of ex-servicemen not covered by normal pensions had been helped out at a cost of £233.
People with flags were invited to fly them for National Savings Week by the Featherstone Savings Committee.
The Miners' Welfare Youth Club was formed for youths over 15 years of age who had left school. Activities included table tennis, PT, boxing, ballroom dancing and billiards. The fee was 5s per session.
NOVEMBER Remembrance Sunday began with a parade from Cressey's Corner headed by the Featherstone Band and included members of the British Legion, the council and officials, the RAOB, Fire Service, St John Ambulance Brigade, Scouts and Guides. The service at the War Memorial was conducted by the Salvation Army. Mr S Bearns sounded The Last Post and Reveille.
A sum of £160 was handed to the Earl Haig Poppy Fund. It came from collecting boxes, poppy and wreath sales, a dance, and donations from the men's and women's sections. A social evening was held in their headquarters, the Featherstone Hotel.
Trial signals from the new television station at Sutton Coldfield were received by Mr R H Jackson at his business premises in Station Lane. Although the guaranteed reception area was 60 miles, and Featherstone was 90 miles away, Mr Jackson said he thought it would be better than anticipated.
Nine Featherstone Rovers supporters were travelling home in a taxi from the game at Halifax. It was dark with a high wind and heavy rain, and the driver, Mr G E Maxwell of Post Office Road was dazzled by the lights of an oncoming car. He hit the curb and left the road ending up crashing into the Bar House Cafe in Brighouse which was empty at the time. All were taken to Huddersfield Royal Infirmary and were allowed to go home except Mr J Colman of Featherstone Square who had a head injury.
A sum of £160 was handed to the Earl Haig Poppy Fund. It came from collecting boxes, poppy and wreath sales, a dance, and donations from the men's and women's sections. A social evening was held in their headquarters, the Featherstone Hotel.
Trial signals from the new television station at Sutton Coldfield were received by Mr R H Jackson at his business premises in Station Lane. Although the guaranteed reception area was 60 miles, and Featherstone was 90 miles away, Mr Jackson said he thought it would be better than anticipated.
Nine Featherstone Rovers supporters were travelling home in a taxi from the game at Halifax. It was dark with a high wind and heavy rain, and the driver, Mr G E Maxwell of Post Office Road was dazzled by the lights of an oncoming car. He hit the curb and left the road ending up crashing into the Bar House Cafe in Brighouse which was empty at the time. All were taken to Huddersfield Royal Infirmary and were allowed to go home except Mr J Colman of Featherstone Square who had a head injury.
The Featherstone Road Club held its annual dinner at Wordsworth's Cafe, Pontefract, when more than 100 members and friends were present. H Davis won the prize for the Goole run with a record time of 2 hours 6 minute and 13 seconds.
DECEMBER The British Legion entertained members' children to a Christmas party in the Miners' Welfare Hall. Mr Walker gave a film show of Charlie Chaplin and Harold Lloyd, and Father Christmas gave each child an apple, an orange, sweets and a shilling.
DECEMBER The British Legion entertained members' children to a Christmas party in the Miners' Welfare Hall. Mr Walker gave a film show of Charlie Chaplin and Harold Lloyd, and Father Christmas gave each child an apple, an orange, sweets and a shilling.