A HISTORY OF FEATHERSTONE
1946
THE PRISONER OF WAR CLUB
The
Prisoner of War Club had decided to have a celebration gathering in the
Lister Hall for all the repatriated prisoners of war. A concert was
arranged in the Wilson Street Methodist Church to raise funds.
A meeting was held in January by the committee to make final
arrangements. Mr T Woodcock, the secretary, said of the 51 ex-POW's who
were to be invited, two had died and two were missing. Mr H Stacey was
arranging a bumper variety concert for the occasion.
At a meeting at the Social Service Centre in March the secretary, Mr T Woodcock, said over £1,200 had been distributed to the ex-prisoners of war, and the small balance would be given to some deserving charity.
At a meeting at the Social Service Centre in March the secretary, Mr T Woodcock, said over £1,200 had been distributed to the ex-prisoners of war, and the small balance would be given to some deserving charity.
THE PRISONER OF WAR RECEPTION
A final reception was held in February in the Lister Hall for returned prisoners of war. About
400 people were present including ex-prisoners of war, their relatives,
and those who had done notable work for the Featherstone Prisoner of
War Club.
After the meal the vice-chairman of the club, Mrs L Davis, said when
the war ended they were grateful only one prisoner had died ( the January meeting said two), and two
were missing, who they hoped would turn up. She was sorry to say they
had not, and we have lost two more. The first one died before the
Japanese surrendered, and the other one was liberated, but just could
not make it.
There was then a concert for those who had survived, and afterwards Mrs
Davis presented cheques to 45 ex-prisoners of war and two mothers and a
widow who had been bereaved. Dr J Duncan said the lot of the prisoner
of war had been a hard one, especially in comparison with that of the
British civilian.
Mrs C Gold, organising secretary of the Yorkshire Evening News POW
Club, recalled the Featherstone Club's early days when much hard work
had to be done. She attended many meetings and had been the bearer of
unhappy news at times, but she had also tried to encourage those who
were downcast. Revd W B Chapman said Featherstone owed to Mrs Gold a
debt of gratitude for her work.
THE COMFORTS FUND
The Featherstone and Purston Special Constables' Comforts Fund
published their balance sheet in January for last year. The total raised
was £2,285, of which £254 came from the regular dances, and the
Junction Hotel topped the amount from collecting boxes with £152.
Although
the dances and other efforts had now ceased, the work of paying out all
dues and demands up to 31 December 1945 to all men and women in
the Services would go on, and anyone who had been abroad should apply to
Mr W Senior at Purston Post Office. During the war the amount raised
was about £5,500 and about 1,400 members of the Forces had benefited.
The final meeting was held in November. The final amount raised was over £6,000, and out of the amount left £100 was given to the British Legion, and £108 to St Dunstan's ( for members of the Forces blinded in the war).
There was still some money left, so a benevolent committee was formed, and any serviceman or woman who had previously received a grant, and who suffered from a disability or ill-health would be considered for further help.
Nine prefabricated bungalows were ready for occupation, and the names of the tenants were drawn by lot from the applicants. The photo is from Featherstone Bygone days.
The final meeting was held in November. The final amount raised was over £6,000, and out of the amount left £100 was given to the British Legion, and £108 to St Dunstan's ( for members of the Forces blinded in the war).
There was still some money left, so a benevolent committee was formed, and any serviceman or woman who had previously received a grant, and who suffered from a disability or ill-health would be considered for further help.
THE COUNCIL
JANUARY The council were disappointed about the delay in the delivery of temporary prefabricated houses. There
were also going to be some prefabricated permanent houses, and the
chairman, Cr E Rowley, said these might be erected before the temporary
houses, which was a ridiculous state of affairs.
Proposed sites for industrial buildings had been viewed, and wooden
structures no longer required by the Ministry could be obtained, but if
the landowners would not sell it was not possible to obtain a compulsory
purchase for industrial purposes.
FEBRUARY It was reported 88 electric street lamps had been damaged, and the police were taking proceedings against two youths. Cr E Rowley said it is high time the public realised it is their own property, and they are paying for it. The erection of prefabricated bungalows on the Leatham Estate had begun and the rent would be 10s a week. Notice was served to make sanitary conversions to houses in Featherstone Square and Nostell View.
MARCH It was decided two employees who had reached retiring age should leave to make way for two former employees who had returned from the Forces. The cost of water from Wakefield Corporation, paid by the water rates, was running at a loss and had to be subsidised out of the general rate fund. This had been going on for years, and it was agreed to further discuss it.
Mr Bradbury, the billeting officer during the war, gave a report on that period. Billets were found for 396 people, including mothers and children, with the highest number in a week being 158. Only three aged people still remained. Accommodation was also found for 70 pit trainees (Bevin Boys).
A rate of 23s in the £1 was approved. The increase was mainly because of an increased rate from the county council.
APRIL The election results were:
North Ward - two required J E Graham (Independent) 889 A Booth (Labour) 720 J J Martin (Labour) 606
Purston Ward W H Roberts ((Independent Labour) 755 C H Jarvis 357.
South Ward J B Fennell, W Griffiths and H Woodcock (all Labour) unopposed
Ackton and Snydale Ward T Morgan unopposed
Cr E Rowley was re-elected chairman. He said the past year had been a strenuous one, and the council had seen some of the fruits of its planning in the past. The coming year promised more. The photo is from Featherstone Bygone Days uploaded by Kathryn Sykes Blackmore.
FEBRUARY It was reported 88 electric street lamps had been damaged, and the police were taking proceedings against two youths. Cr E Rowley said it is high time the public realised it is their own property, and they are paying for it. The erection of prefabricated bungalows on the Leatham Estate had begun and the rent would be 10s a week. Notice was served to make sanitary conversions to houses in Featherstone Square and Nostell View.
MARCH It was decided two employees who had reached retiring age should leave to make way for two former employees who had returned from the Forces. The cost of water from Wakefield Corporation, paid by the water rates, was running at a loss and had to be subsidised out of the general rate fund. This had been going on for years, and it was agreed to further discuss it.
Mr Bradbury, the billeting officer during the war, gave a report on that period. Billets were found for 396 people, including mothers and children, with the highest number in a week being 158. Only three aged people still remained. Accommodation was also found for 70 pit trainees (Bevin Boys).
A rate of 23s in the £1 was approved. The increase was mainly because of an increased rate from the county council.
APRIL The election results were:
North Ward - two required J E Graham (Independent) 889 A Booth (Labour) 720 J J Martin (Labour) 606
Purston Ward W H Roberts ((Independent Labour) 755 C H Jarvis 357.
South Ward J B Fennell, W Griffiths and H Woodcock (all Labour) unopposed
Ackton and Snydale Ward T Morgan unopposed
Cr E Rowley was re-elected chairman. He said the past year had been a strenuous one, and the council had seen some of the fruits of its planning in the past. The coming year promised more. The photo is from Featherstone Bygone Days uploaded by Kathryn Sykes Blackmore.
MAY
Some members complained about the slow progress in the demolition of
air raid shelters. It was agreed to try and obtain a contractor to speed
up the work. It was also agreed to consider converting the shelter in
the park for use by children when it rained. The layout of the 226
houses on the Leatham Park Estate was approved, and the Ministry of
Works would be told of the council's urgent need for bricks.
Nine cases of raisins had been received as a gift from South Africa and more were expected. It was originally agreed to distribute these to children under 10 for the forthcoming Victory Day, but because of the quantity and the number of children it was agreed to seek an alternative,
JUNE The council decided the South African raisins would be given to the United Charities Committee to distribute to the aged and needy. The Home Office would be asked to transfer the air raid shelter in Purston Park to the council. It was the last council meeting that the engineer and surveyor, Mr P Rothera, would attend. He had been with the council for 38 years, and the chairman thanked him for his services, and hoped his health would improve during his retirement.
JULY The clerk reported on damage to the roof of Lister Baths. The boy had been caught and it was agreed to prosecute. Cr Evans said over the years hundreds of pounds of damage had been done by similar actions.
Nine cases of raisins had been received as a gift from South Africa and more were expected. It was originally agreed to distribute these to children under 10 for the forthcoming Victory Day, but because of the quantity and the number of children it was agreed to seek an alternative,
JUNE The council decided the South African raisins would be given to the United Charities Committee to distribute to the aged and needy. The Home Office would be asked to transfer the air raid shelter in Purston Park to the council. It was the last council meeting that the engineer and surveyor, Mr P Rothera, would attend. He had been with the council for 38 years, and the chairman thanked him for his services, and hoped his health would improve during his retirement.
JULY The clerk reported on damage to the roof of Lister Baths. The boy had been caught and it was agreed to prosecute. Cr Evans said over the years hundreds of pounds of damage had been done by similar actions.
Householders would be able to retain, free of cost, brick and concrete
air raid shelters providing they conformed to existing by-laws.
AUGUST Mr S Billson, the baths superintendent for 36 years was due to retire in September. The council appointed Mr F Scott of Barking, Essex, to replace him, and his wife would be matron, a post held by Mr Billson's wife until she died in 1935, and then by his daughter. The salary was £225 plus a £40 bonus.
Plans for 86 permanent houses had been approved by the Ministry of Health, and the council decided to put them into small lots to enable local builders to tender.
SEPTEMBER Mr Scott informed the council he was not prepared to share the bath's superintendent's house with Mr Billson. The council replied there was a housing shortage, but they would pay his lodging or hotel expenses.
The residents of Featherstone Square and Nostell View complained about the delay in converting the privies. The council replied they were waiting for sanction from the Ministry of Health, and they would stress the urgency of the need. When permission was received the colliery company would be required to do the work at an estimated cost of £20 per house, or pay half the cost to the council if they did the work. In the meantime the privies would be emptied at night.
OCTOBER For three days the council offices resembled a grocer's shop when over 950 people over the age of 65 were handed packets containing a tin of food and dried fruit sent from the Colonies and Dominions. There were 14 varieties of tinned foods including milk, jam, peaches, sweets, lard and cheese. The dried fruits had been sent in bulk, and Highfield Foods Ltd provided individual packets which were packed by the firm's staff.
At the council meeting the chairman, Cr E Rowley said "It is absolutely wicked that, after 6 years of war and walking about in darkness, now we have got the town properly lit, people are wantonly smashing lamps, which are still hard to obtain".
A report on the Lister Baths said it was astounded at the neglect and deplorable condition. It recommended the installation of electricity, immediate repairs to the roof and windows, and the chlorine gas apparatus should be made serviceable.
NOVEMBER It was reported the shortage of building materials and glass was holding up progress in building council houses. The problem over housing the new baths superintendent was overcome by granting Mr Billson the tenancy of one of the new council houses.
DECEMBER The council received sanction for the privies in Featherstone Square and Nostell View to be changed to WC's at an estimated cost of £2,240. It was agreed to give 28 days notice to the Ackton Hall Colliery Company to get the work done. Nearly another 1,000 food parcels were given out at the council offices to those over 65.
There were allegations the refuse collectors had been soliciting Christmas gifts, and the surveyor, Mr G F Adamson, was asked to see that it ceased at once. Straying fowl had died after eating poisoned rat bait put out by the council's employees. The council said it would not be responsible for straying fowl.
AUGUST Mr S Billson, the baths superintendent for 36 years was due to retire in September. The council appointed Mr F Scott of Barking, Essex, to replace him, and his wife would be matron, a post held by Mr Billson's wife until she died in 1935, and then by his daughter. The salary was £225 plus a £40 bonus.
Plans for 86 permanent houses had been approved by the Ministry of Health, and the council decided to put them into small lots to enable local builders to tender.
SEPTEMBER Mr Scott informed the council he was not prepared to share the bath's superintendent's house with Mr Billson. The council replied there was a housing shortage, but they would pay his lodging or hotel expenses.
The residents of Featherstone Square and Nostell View complained about the delay in converting the privies. The council replied they were waiting for sanction from the Ministry of Health, and they would stress the urgency of the need. When permission was received the colliery company would be required to do the work at an estimated cost of £20 per house, or pay half the cost to the council if they did the work. In the meantime the privies would be emptied at night.
OCTOBER For three days the council offices resembled a grocer's shop when over 950 people over the age of 65 were handed packets containing a tin of food and dried fruit sent from the Colonies and Dominions. There were 14 varieties of tinned foods including milk, jam, peaches, sweets, lard and cheese. The dried fruits had been sent in bulk, and Highfield Foods Ltd provided individual packets which were packed by the firm's staff.
At the council meeting the chairman, Cr E Rowley said "It is absolutely wicked that, after 6 years of war and walking about in darkness, now we have got the town properly lit, people are wantonly smashing lamps, which are still hard to obtain".
A report on the Lister Baths said it was astounded at the neglect and deplorable condition. It recommended the installation of electricity, immediate repairs to the roof and windows, and the chlorine gas apparatus should be made serviceable.
NOVEMBER It was reported the shortage of building materials and glass was holding up progress in building council houses. The problem over housing the new baths superintendent was overcome by granting Mr Billson the tenancy of one of the new council houses.
DECEMBER The council received sanction for the privies in Featherstone Square and Nostell View to be changed to WC's at an estimated cost of £2,240. It was agreed to give 28 days notice to the Ackton Hall Colliery Company to get the work done. Nearly another 1,000 food parcels were given out at the council offices to those over 65.
There were allegations the refuse collectors had been soliciting Christmas gifts, and the surveyor, Mr G F Adamson, was asked to see that it ceased at once. Straying fowl had died after eating poisoned rat bait put out by the council's employees. The council said it would not be responsible for straying fowl.
THE ROAD CLUB
The Featherstone Road Club had a winter run to Naburn. After they
reached Sherburn they found the road was icy and then deep snow, so
after riders were falling off they bicycles they had walk part of the
way, and the return journey was the same. The club held its first annual
meeting for four years now the war had ended. Dr J Duncan was chosen as
president.
The Road Club began their weekly Sunday rides in April. One
included a journey which took them to Holme Road said to be the highest
road in Yorkshire with extensive views of the countryside.
Over 100 members and friends sat down to dinner in Wordsworth's Cafe, Pontefract, in December. Mr J Hodgson, the vice-president, welcomed returning members who had been in the Forces, and expressed sympathy with the families of members who had died in the war. Dr Duncan, the president, handed out the prizes. K Johnson received that for the fastest time in the 25 miles time trial, which he completed in 1 hour, 8 minutes and 7 seconds. The rest of the evening was spent in dancing.
Over 100 members and friends sat down to dinner in Wordsworth's Cafe, Pontefract, in December. Mr J Hodgson, the vice-president, welcomed returning members who had been in the Forces, and expressed sympathy with the families of members who had died in the war. Dr Duncan, the president, handed out the prizes. K Johnson received that for the fastest time in the 25 miles time trial, which he completed in 1 hour, 8 minutes and 7 seconds. The rest of the evening was spent in dancing.
ACKTON HALL COLLIERY PRESENTATIONS
A ceremony was held at Ackton Hall Colliery in February to acknowledge
50 years service by 13 employees. They were Emmanuel Causwell and
Charles Darlison (53 years), William Warrington (52 years), John Sharpe,
Charles Firth, Harry Stringer, John Burnell, Thomas Chilton and George
Clamp (51 years), and Cornelius Toft and Fred Polkinhorne (50 years). They
each received Savings Certificates and an illuminated address. The
widows of Ernest Collins (51 years) and Arthur Kershaw (50 years) would
be seen privately.
The
chairman of directors of the South Kirkby, Featherstone and Hemsworth
Collieries Ltd, Major J E D Shaw, thanked the workers not only for their
50 years' service, but for carrying on during the period of great
difficulty and stress in the past six or seven years. He said the
gathering was almost a goodbye, because the country was to take over the
mining industry. "If they think they can run it any better, good luck
to them".
Another ceremony was held at the company's head office in Ropergate, Pontefract, in December for 34 employees with 50 or more years' service. Major Shaw made the presentations and regretted it was the last occasion he would have this opportunity, as the mines would shortly pass to State ownership.
Each person received 20 Savings Certificates and an illuminated address. Those from Ackton Hall Colliery were: John Clarke (55 years), Joseph Wilde, Harry Craven and Albert Smith (54), William and Walter Blakestone (53), John Davies and Joseph Watton (52), Percy Dransfield and Henry Cranswick (51), Reuben Hobbs, Walter Walker, Ernest Northern and Harry Marshall (50).
Another ceremony was held at the company's head office in Ropergate, Pontefract, in December for 34 employees with 50 or more years' service. Major Shaw made the presentations and regretted it was the last occasion he would have this opportunity, as the mines would shortly pass to State ownership.
Each person received 20 Savings Certificates and an illuminated address. Those from Ackton Hall Colliery were: John Clarke (55 years), Joseph Wilde, Harry Craven and Albert Smith (54), William and Walter Blakestone (53), John Davies and Joseph Watton (52), Percy Dransfield and Henry Cranswick (51), Reuben Hobbs, Walter Walker, Ernest Northern and Harry Marshall (50).
THE SOCIAL SERVICE CENTRE
The annual meeting of the Social Service Centre was held in February. The
president, Mr E P Bullock, recalled how the centre did useful work in
past years, and hoped some of it could be revived for the benefit of the
community today.
He reviewed the history of the club; how it was formed in the Parochial
Hall in 1932 and the Prince of Wales visited in the following year. The
present centre was built by the members, blown down in a gale and
rebuilt, and opened in 1936. In 1938 there were 486 members of which 276
were men. The activities included woodwork, boot repairing, upholstery,
weaving, rug making, machine stocking knitting, re-caning chairs,
gymnastics, boxing, cookery, gardening, painting, discussion groups,
evening classes, music, singing and drama.
Entertainments were arranged for both old people and children, and in
1939 a successful young people's club was established. The women members
catered for the welfare of all the soldiers billeted in Featherstone,
and equipped and staffed a rest centre.
The undertaking had always been financially strong, thanks to Barclays
Bank in London, the young people's social events, dances, and the women's
section yearly contributions. There was now a balance in hand of about
£100.
He said "I do wish we could revive some little of what I have
enumerated; that the public would realise this is their centre; and it
will be part of the life of the people". He listed the organisations
making use of it, and said when food and milk became more plentiful it
was hoped to establish a milk bar.
The changed circumstances resulted in the Barclays Bank group of donors being no longer required, and in April the following appeared in the bank's house magazine The Spread Eagle.
The changed circumstances resulted in the Barclays Bank group of donors being no longer required, and in April the following appeared in the bank's house magazine The Spread Eagle.
A meeting was held in October to make plans for the winter activities. They included lectures, whist drives, a concert, a children's competition, and discussion classes. Mr J E Nelson, the manager of Ackton Hall Colliery, opened the lecture series with a talk on "Coal, Past and Present". Mr Bullock expressed satisfaction at the attendance and hoped the group would become the best in the district.
THE CHORAL SOCIETY
There
was an excellent attendance in the Purston Methodist Church for the
concert arranged by the Featherstone and District Choral Society in aid
of the Cancer Research Fund. The only fault the Express could find was there were not enough male singers in the choir.
THE AM DRAMS
The Featherstone and District Musical and Dramatic Society put on The Desert Song in April at the Miners' Welfare Hall. The Express commented
it was the best show the society had yet given. The proceeds were for
Pontefract General Infirmary and St Dunstan's. It was a full house on
the Saturday night, and many would be attenders were disappointed.
The
society held a get together in the Social Service centre to present £50
cheques to St Dunstan's and Pontefract Infirmary. Mr P Rothera, for the
society, said so far they had raised £365 from their shows. After
refreshments the evening continued with dancing.
The annual dinner was held in the Social Service Centre in July. The
president, Mr A Bullock, announced the the next production would be The New Moon.
THE VICTORY CELEBRATIONS
The national Victory Celebrations were held on 8 June. The Express commented
"In spite of the wretched weather the Featherstone Victory Celebrations
were carried through with determination". The day began with sung
Eucharist at St Peter's Church, followed by a schoolchildren's swimming
gala in the Lister Baths, a carnival procession from North Featherstone,
and sports on the Rovers' ground. The York and Lancaster Regiment Band
played selections during the evening, and the finale was a firework
display.
The fancy dress competition was won by Mr Spencer as "canned-up", but
because the entries were limited each competitor was given a prize. The
best decorated street was Wentbridge Road, and the best decorated house
was that of Mrs R Howarth of Wentbridge Road.
The council said in spite of the weather the celebration was a great
success. They gave 5s to every resident over 65 years old which cost
£232. The residents of Wentbridge Road gave their prize money to
Pontefract General Infirmary.
THE ROVERS
Nine tiers at the front of the stand collapsed during the Rovers game
against Castleford in April, and about 100 spectators fell. None were injured and
were helped to their feet by other spectators. The referee stopped the
game until it was all sorted. The photo is from fevarchive.
The annual meeting was held at the Junction Hotel in June. A loss on
the season of £1,275 was reported. The auditor, Mr E Holstead, remarked
on a letter in the Express which suggested the formation of a
company to run the club. He thought the idea required careful
consideration. The guarantee of the bank overdraft (£1,221) by a few
devoted members of the club was not satisfactory. A long discussion took
place on the subject but no decision was taken.
The president, Mr A Bullock, was unanimously re-elected, and Messrs J Jepson, T Woodcock and S G Smith were elected to the committee. After the meeting the secretary for the past ten years, Mr H Littlewood, resigned because of ill health.
In July Mr G A Appleyard returned as secretary. He was previously at the Rovers in the 1930's, but left to be manager/secretary of the new rugby league club at Newcastle. Alf Greaves was appointed assistant secretary and treasurer. Stanley Smith, former international player with Wakefield Trinity and Leeds, was appointed coach.
In the Rovers home game against Wakefield Trinity in September the Wakefield player, Frank Walton Townsend age 21, was injured in a tackle and helped from the field. He became worse and was taken to Pontefract Infirmary. He was unconscious when admitted and died after three hours. A post mortem showed bleeding in the brain and from a jugular vein had taken place which caused his death.
The referee told the jury it had been a clean game with not a single caution, and they returned a verdict of death by misadventure. The Rovers were represented at the funeral by Mr R H Jackson the club chairman, and Mr E Steele, the secretary of the supporters club.
A benefit game was played on the Rovers ground on 23 October by two representative teams from Yorkshire clubs. The receipts were £484 of which £114 were paid in entertainment tax. An application for the return of the tax was to be made.
The Boxing Night dance was held in the Lister Hall. As well as the usual spot prizes and refreshments, there was a competition to raise funds for Jack Higgins who was seriously injured in a pre-season practice and had not played since. It realised £25.
The president, Mr A Bullock, was unanimously re-elected, and Messrs J Jepson, T Woodcock and S G Smith were elected to the committee. After the meeting the secretary for the past ten years, Mr H Littlewood, resigned because of ill health.
In July Mr G A Appleyard returned as secretary. He was previously at the Rovers in the 1930's, but left to be manager/secretary of the new rugby league club at Newcastle. Alf Greaves was appointed assistant secretary and treasurer. Stanley Smith, former international player with Wakefield Trinity and Leeds, was appointed coach.
In the Rovers home game against Wakefield Trinity in September the Wakefield player, Frank Walton Townsend age 21, was injured in a tackle and helped from the field. He became worse and was taken to Pontefract Infirmary. He was unconscious when admitted and died after three hours. A post mortem showed bleeding in the brain and from a jugular vein had taken place which caused his death.
The referee told the jury it had been a clean game with not a single caution, and they returned a verdict of death by misadventure. The Rovers were represented at the funeral by Mr R H Jackson the club chairman, and Mr E Steele, the secretary of the supporters club.
A benefit game was played on the Rovers ground on 23 October by two representative teams from Yorkshire clubs. The receipts were £484 of which £114 were paid in entertainment tax. An application for the return of the tax was to be made.
The Boxing Night dance was held in the Lister Hall. As well as the usual spot prizes and refreshments, there was a competition to raise funds for Jack Higgins who was seriously injured in a pre-season practice and had not played since. It realised £25.
FOOD PARCELS
Featherston
(correct spelling) in New Zealand had only 1,100 inhabitants, but they
sent food parcels in July containing tinned milk, dripping, marmalade,
jam, chocolate, tinned fruit, jellies and tinned meats to be distributed
among old-age pensioners, widows with small children, and invalids.
The
Rugby League tour of Australia inspired the New South Wales Club to
send parcels for the rugby league districts, and the council were
notified Featherstone would receive 120 for needy Featherstone Rovers
supporters.
OLD FEATHERSTONE TREAT
The Old Featherstone and Ackton Children's and Aged People's Treat was
revived after being closed down by the war. A new committee had been
formed and had raised funds since last September. It was held as in
pre-war in Mrs Copley's field.
The attractions were an old men's walking race which
George Bromby entered. He was now 86 and had won it twice when in his
70's.There were races for the children, a Punch and Judy, comedy
acrobats, and a new innovation was a pony gymkhana.
THE COMFORTS FUND WOUND UP
A
meeting was held in the Junction Hotel in August to wind up the
Featherstone and Purston Comforts Fund. Mr A Bullock presided and
expressed his appreciation of the good work done by the committee from
1939. He said the sum of £4,600 had been paid to members of HM Forces,
which he thought was a gesture of appreciation to the men and women who
served the country so magnificently during the war. He was proud to have
been connected with the organisation.
The balance sheet showed there was £708 remaining, and the committee
suggested a cot should be endowed at Pontefract General Infirmary at a
cost of £500, £100 should be given to the Featherstone Branch of the
British Legion, and £100 to St Dunstan's Institution. The secretary was
to ask the commissioners of the War Charities Act if this was allowed.
POPPLETON'S SHOP HIT BY A LORRY
Francis McLean age 34 of Manchester was driving an eight wheel lorry along Wakefield Road at 4.30am on 30 August. When passing the Jubilee Hotel the lorry veered onto the footpath and crashed into Poppleton's shop causing extensive damage.
The driver was trapped and unconscious, and Police Sergeant Shaw with
Police Constable Windmill and other helpers had to use picks and
crowbars to get him out. He was taken to Pontefract General Infirmary
where he died from head injuries two hours later.
The premises were lock-up so no one else was involved, and they had to
be shored up by joiners before a breakdown crane could drag the lorry
out. An examination of the lorry showed the most likely cause of the
accident was the failure of the steering. At the inquest the coroner
recorded a verdict of death by misadventure, and said I do not think
there is any question of him going to sleep.
The photographs below are from the Dr Gatecliff Collection.
The photographs below are from the Dr Gatecliff Collection.
THE MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT
Dr J Duncan, the medical officer of health for Featherstone, published his annual report for 1945 in October. He said out of 550 cases of infectious disease notified 429
were of measles, but only one was fatal. During the year 237 children
were immunised against diphtheria. Only half of pre-school children were
covered, but 80% of children between 5 and 15 years were protected.
The laying of a new water main from Halfpenny Lane to Houndhill Lane
had largely solved the problem of low water pressure to that area and
the extreme end of Ackworth Road. There were still 344 privies and 500
ashpits instead of dustbins, "Until it is possible to deal radically
with this situation, we cannot feel that the best interests of public
health are being served, and it is deplorable that no real progress can
be reported in this serious state of affairs."
"The problem of controlling smoke and fumes from the colliery
spoilbanks is one of great difficulty and had been dealt with a
combination of damping down and earthing the surface. For the older
stacks, the binding of the surface by vegetation, such as the lupins at
Snydale is an effective method."
The Sanitary inspector, Mr J Hilsley, reported nearly 20 tons of
salvage were collected during the year and sold for £364. A total of 37
premises were baited for rats, and at one of them 60 dead rats were
found.
The provision of new houses was one of the most pressing problems. A large number of married couples, some with children, lived in lodgings. and many of these houses were overcrowded and the proper separation of the sexes was impossible. The provision of other accommodation for the occupants was a very urgent matter.
The provision of new houses was one of the most pressing problems. A large number of married couples, some with children, lived in lodgings. and many of these houses were overcrowded and the proper separation of the sexes was impossible. The provision of other accommodation for the occupants was a very urgent matter.
ROAD SAFETY EXHIBITION
A
three days road safety exhibition was staged in the Miners' Welfare
Hall in October. It was opened by Carroll Levis, the BBC presenter who
fronted the Carroll Levis Discovery Show. The gathering was vastly amused when he had a number of children on the stage and quizzed them in his well known manner.
There were competitions, film shows, and demonstration drives were
arranged in which the policeman driving gave a running commentary
describing what was happening on the road about them.
 | ||
| Carroll Levis, a photo from PicClick UK on the Internet. |
At
a meeting of the Road Safety Committee in November it was said 2,346
children and 950 adults attended the exhibition. five cinema shows were
given to 750 people, and six people had demonstration runs in a police
car.
JANE ALEXANDER
Over 300 people gathered in Purston School in November to honour Miss
Jane S Alexander who had served 60 years as a Sunday School teacher. The
Vicar of Purston, Revd I O Jay said Miss Alexander began in 1886 at the
age of 16. He paid tribute to her regular attendance, kindliness,
affection and Christian spirit.
Dr
J Duncan spoke of her reliability, resource and kindly spirit in the
smooth running of the first aid centres during the war. The Vicar of
Featherstone, Revd W B Chapman, said he had thought of negotiating her
transfer from Purston to Featherstone, but feared the transfer fee would
be too high!
Mrs Jay presented an illuminated address, a cheque for 60 guineas, and a
list of 300 subscribers. Miss Alexander said she had loved her work and
had gained continued pleasure from it. She was presented with a three
tier cake inscribed "With love to our friend and helper for sixty
years", and she requested two of the tiers should be cut up and added to
the refreshments. The occasion ended with a concert.
THE CRICKET CLUB ANNUAL MEETING
The annual meeting of the Featherstone and Purston Cricket, Tennis and
Bowling Club was held at the Junction Hotel in November. The balance
sheet showed a profit on the season of £42, and a credit balance of
£116, which the president, Mr J E Nelson, described as very
satisfactory.
The
secretary, Mr S Denton, said they had had a good season in spite of the
weather. The first team had played 20 matches, won 12 lost 6 and drew
2. The attendance at the games had doubled.
Regarding the future the president said "The colliery company bought
the cricket ground some years ago, rather than see it go elsewhere, but
nationalisation is now upon us, and I cannot tell you what will happen
to the ground or its ownership."
The annual dinner was held in the Junction Hotel. The toast to the club was made by Mr W H Fleming of the South Kirkby, Featherstone and Hemsworth Colliery Company. He said the club had an excellent record and for three seasons in succession had finished in the top four of the Yorkshire Council. He said he did not know how we were going to fare in the future, but the club had a record membership of 390 and was in a strong position.
The toast to the town was made by Dr Duncan. He said though re-housing was still a great problem, and though many people were living in very poor conditions, the efforts made by the council in the Purston housing estate were worthy of commendation. He disliked the idea of prefabricated houses, but now found them very fine buildings, which enabled young people to start their married lives in better conditions than at one time appeared possible.
Referring to the Government's plans for nationalisation and the varied opinions about them, he said the only way the town could achieve success and prosperity was everyone should agree to go forward together. "If our energies are frittered away in useless strife and cross-purposes, then we shall get nowhere".
The president, Mr J E Nelson, said it was impossible to tell how the nationalisation of the coal industry would affect the club, but had no doubt if the land owned by the company passed to the state, the cricket field and all its amenities would be retained.
Cr E Rowley in reply said if there was any doubt about the future of the cricket field the council would buy it. Regarding the town he said "There is no reason, with its basic industry of mining, its auxiliary industry of road transport, and the possibility of extending industry from the female point of view, why Featherstone cannot be made into a new Featherstone".
Arthur Booth was welcomed by the chairman, Cr H E Hartington, who congratulated him on heading the first class bowling averages last season and receiving his Yorkshire county cap. Mr Booth said he won a prize for heading the Featherstone bowing averages 22 years previously, and that gave him greater pleasure at the time than his bowling feat of last season.
The annual dinner was held in the Junction Hotel. The toast to the club was made by Mr W H Fleming of the South Kirkby, Featherstone and Hemsworth Colliery Company. He said the club had an excellent record and for three seasons in succession had finished in the top four of the Yorkshire Council. He said he did not know how we were going to fare in the future, but the club had a record membership of 390 and was in a strong position.
The toast to the town was made by Dr Duncan. He said though re-housing was still a great problem, and though many people were living in very poor conditions, the efforts made by the council in the Purston housing estate were worthy of commendation. He disliked the idea of prefabricated houses, but now found them very fine buildings, which enabled young people to start their married lives in better conditions than at one time appeared possible.
Referring to the Government's plans for nationalisation and the varied opinions about them, he said the only way the town could achieve success and prosperity was everyone should agree to go forward together. "If our energies are frittered away in useless strife and cross-purposes, then we shall get nowhere".
The president, Mr J E Nelson, said it was impossible to tell how the nationalisation of the coal industry would affect the club, but had no doubt if the land owned by the company passed to the state, the cricket field and all its amenities would be retained.
Cr E Rowley in reply said if there was any doubt about the future of the cricket field the council would buy it. Regarding the town he said "There is no reason, with its basic industry of mining, its auxiliary industry of road transport, and the possibility of extending industry from the female point of view, why Featherstone cannot be made into a new Featherstone".
Arthur Booth was welcomed by the chairman, Cr H E Hartington, who congratulated him on heading the first class bowling averages last season and receiving his Yorkshire county cap. Mr Booth said he won a prize for heading the Featherstone bowing averages 22 years previously, and that gave him greater pleasure at the time than his bowling feat of last season.
1946 NEWS ITEMS
JANUARY
John Roberts of Jardine Avenue died age 79. He was a founder member of
the Featherstone Fire Brigade, and its captain for 15 years. He came to
Featherstone from Lincolnshire, and was a smith and ironmonger for 40
years. He was also involved at various times with the Purston and
Featherstone Sports Club, the annual charity Sports and Carnival,
Pontefract Industrial Co-operative Society, and Pontefract General
Infirmary.
The Purston Special Constables won the Burkill Shield in the first aid competition held at Pontefract. The team was Special Constables Fenn, Mason, Leverton, Seal and Mann.
FEBRUARY The 22nd annual hospital ball was held in the Lister Hall. The attendance (not given) was described as disappointing by the organisers.
A letter was sent to the council from a Mr Walker in Western Australia who said he was a soldier in the 1914-18 war and spent his leaves with Mr and Mrs L Steer in Featherstone. He wrote "I enjoyed many happy hours in your lovely village". Regarding the "lovely" image Cr E Rowley said I have always had that opinion, and Cr F Banks replied you can't stop people from dreaming.
The members of the Savings Committee held a social gathering in the Social Service Centre. Cr W Walker, a regional member of the National Savings Movement, congratulated Featherstone on setting a good example on savings, but said now the war was over it was natural for people to think there was no need for further savings, but he urged everyone to think otherwise.
MARCH Albert Cording age 42 of Andrew Street was killed by a fall of roof at Ackton Hall colliery. The inquest verdict was death by misadventure.
The ordination to the priesthood of the Curate of Featherstone, Revd H Crichton, was performed by the Bishop of Wakefield, Rt Revd H McGowan, at Featherstone Parish Church. It was believed to be the first ceremony of its kind held in the church.
APRIL Mr F Varley's hardware van caught fire in Featherstone Lane and was completely burnt out. It contained 100 gallons of paraffin, and was well alight before the fire brigade arrived.
The pantomime Jack and Jill was put on at the Miners' Welfare Hall for three days in aid of the Featherstone Voluntary Hospital Organisation. The performers were from Castleford and District, and Pat Wilson of Purston took the part of Jill. The attendance was described as disappointing but appreciative.
MAY A concert was held in the Miners' Welfare Hall in aid of the Old Featherstone and Ackton Children's and Old Folk's Treat Fund. The main artists were the Chantry Singers, and Castleford Male Voice Choir, who were thanked by Dr E T Forster who presided over the event.
Over 200 Featherstone fans went to the Rugby League Championship Final at the Manchester City ground. After the match one bus carrying them to Belle Vue broke down near a cricket ground. So they watched that match until a replacement bus was obtained. After watching the speedway at Belle Vue they arrived home at 1.30am on Sunday.
JULY The British Legion celebrated their 25th anniversary with a parade of 50 members headed by the Salvation Army Band to Featherstone Parish Church for a service conducted by the vicar, Revd W B Chapman.
Council workmen were using a tar pan in Little Lane when it set on fire. They threw earth on it until the fire brigade arrived.
An ENSA concert in the Miners' Welfare Hall was attended by an audience of 350. They were entertained by a compere and vocalist, two comedians, a dancer, a soprano, and a soubrette (a soprano singing in a coy manner).
Arthur Booth age 44 was awarded his county cap by Yorkshire County Cricket Club. He was born in Featherstone and his early career was with the Featherstone Cricket Club in the 1920's.
For the 22nd year in succession the Featherstone Hospitals' Efforts Committee contributed over £100 to local charities. Pontefract General Infirmary received £50, Leeds General Infirmary and Leeds Hospital for Woman £25 each, and Clayton Hospital £20. Other small donations were to the St John Ambulance Brigade, Devonshire Royal Hospital, Buxton, and Harrogate Royal Baths Hospital.
A Featherstone Road Safety Committee was formed at a meeting in the council offices. It was agreed to meet on the last Wednesday in each month.
John Holden age 56 of Wakefield Road was severely injured by a fall of roof at Snydale Colliery and taken to Pontefract General Infirmary. He died three hours later from shock. At the inquest the coroner said the accident was completely unavoidable.
AUGUST The 30 choirboys of St Peter's Church had a week's holiday in Sutton-on-Sea where they camped out in the church hall. The cost of £30 was raised by voluntary efforts at the church. They were accompanied by the curate, Revd H Crichton, and Mr G Dransfield who arranged the funding.
The council used its powers to requisition empty properties for housing purposes for the first time to enable Mr J W Harrap and his wife and child to have a home. He was demobilised from the Army in July last year and they had slept three nights in a tent and then on a mattress on the floor in his parents house.
The Tuesday evening variety concerts in the Welfare Hall by ENSA proved popular and the audience had increased to about 450.
An inquest was held into the death of William Green age 81 of Green Lane. He was found by his wife sitting in the garden moaning. There was a pair of steps against the wall and a clothes prop on the ground, so she presumed he had been knocking leaves off the tree, as was his habit. He was taken to Pontefract Infirmary where he died five days later from a fractured leg and shock. The verdict was death by misadventure.
Walter Hamilton Fearnley retired as organist and choirmaster at All Saints' Parish Church. He began as a choirboy 60 years ago and moved to organist 10 years later. After the harvest festival service he was presented with a cheque for 50 guineas.
SEPTEMBER At the end of the month St Peter's Mission Church celebrated its 50th anniversary. Special services were held, and for Solemn Evensong on the Sunday the church was so crowded chairs had to be placed in the central isle, and some people had to sit on the Sanctuary steps. Photo - Tony Lumb Collection.
NOVEMBER The annual parade organised by the British Legion marched behind the Featherstone Silver Subscription Band from the Welfare Hall to the War Memorial. The service was conducted by Revd W B Chapman and Mr Nunns sounded The Last Post and Reveille. In the evening a service was held at Featherstone Parish Church. The Poppy Day collections were a record, the total from all sources being £250.
Ackton Hall Colliery had a production target fixed at 9,000 tons per week, but it was consistently beaten so it was raised to 9,500 tons.
DECEMBER In one week Ackton Hall Colliery produced 11,100 tons of coal, the highest output for ten years.
About 40 members of Old Featherstone Working Men's Club joined the Forces during the war. The only one not to return was Driver Mark Stanley Hirst who died in a Japanese prison camp in 1945. A plaque in his honour was placed in the club, and a bugler from Pontefract Barracks sounded The Last Post and Reveille.
A Christmas party was held in the Child Welfare Clinic in Albert Street. All concerned were pleased it was in their own premises for the first time. Over 400 mother and children enjoyed tea and sang carols. The Featherstone Clothing Company held its first dance in the Lister Hall.
Herbert Roberts age 47 died suddenly, and after hearing medical evidence the coroner decided death was due to the effects of a gunshot wound in the First World War.
There were 650 people at the cricket club's New Year's Eve dance in the Lister Hall. At Midnight they were led by Mr H Mason in the singing of Auld Lang Syne.