15th Aug 1919. “The Warwickshire Lads.” The Infantry.

“ THE WARWICKSHIRE LADS.”
THE INFANTRY.
HOW THE LOCAL MEN FOUGHT.

Under this heading we have endeavoured to get together a complete and authoritative account of the doings of Rugby men on the various war fronts from 1914 to 1918. Owing to the regulations of the Defence of the Realm Act all references to these matters by the Press were, of course, strictly prohibited during hostilities. But, although many of the events now related will seem to be already relegated to the “ long ago,” it is only just that there should be on record some recital of the losses and successes of the local units. As we are anxious to make our narrative as comprehensive and complete as possible, we shall be glad if any of our readers would amplify our articles or rectify any omissions that may inadvertently occur.

The Rugby men, composing the old E Company, of the 7th Royal Warwickshire Regiment, had an honourable and valiant record of stern work in France and Italy. Although before going overseas they were merged into a double company, the Rugby contingent retained their individuality all through, despite the inevitable change that followed gradually in course of time upon casualties and transfers. They left England with the battalion on March 22nd, 1915, landing at Le Harve. They eventually entrained to Cassel, where they were billeted at farmhouses. After a stay of some 26 days, they matched to Bailleul, and thence to Armentieres, in the vicinity of which they made their initial entry into the trenches with the Durham Light Infantry. Three casualties occurred here among the local men-but there were none killed. They subsequently returned to Bailleul, proceeding from there to Neuve Eglise, where they took over the trenches at a point below the Messines Ridge. The Company put in a lot of work here, and it was during their stay at this point that the Hill 60 fight took place, when the German armies used gas for the first time. The effects of the gas reached the local men, causing their eyes to smart, but did no actual harm. However, casualties were happening daily and many Rugby heroes were laid to rest at a little graveyard near by. The next move was to Hebuterne to take over some trenches from the French. It was an unpleasant spot. It had only recently been captured from the enemy and

PARTIALLY BURIED BODIES were visible on every side. A few weeks later the Company were sent to a point north of the line, again superseding some French troops. The trenches here were in a much better condition than those just vacated. They commenced from a somewhat ruined village, and were complete with communication trenches. Having these facilities, and thus being able to work from the village, the Company were able to remain in the line for a longer period. The Company were in this sector during the Christmas of 1915 until the early part of July, 1916, when the Somme offensive opened. The local men put in some strenuous work on this occasion. They were on the left flank supporting the main portion of the attacking division and were using smoke screens on an extensive scale. Some heavy losses were suffered here by the Brigade. Two battalions went to the assistance of the attacking division and were badly cut up. A few days later they journeyed to a point near Albert. Here it was that the testing time for the Rugby men may be said to have commenced. They were continuously in action and had their first experience of going over the top. The first trench actually captured by the battalion had to be given up soon afterwards owing to its open exposure to machine-gun fire. They had some gruelling fighting here for several months. They were moving steadily southward along the line during this time, until they eventually took over a sector from the French opposite Peronne. The Germans subsequently commenced a retirement in these regions, and the battalion fought them back to the Hindenburg line. This was the first experience of

OPEN WARFARE to many of the men, and afforded some interest, with the cavalry with them. It came as something of a relief moreover, despite the digging-in operations necessitated. Hereabouts the division were sent to Ypres, and suffered some severe losses. Throughout their stay in France, the battalion took a worthy share in all the operations they were engaged in, having some very hard fighting indeed, and never being more than a few days away from the trenches at a time, with the exception of one six weeks’ divisional rest. In the summer of 1917 the battalion were sent to Italy, where they assisted to drive back the Austrian offensive. They succeeded in capturing many guns, and finally occupied some parts of Austria. The battalion are now in Egypt-but the majority of those who survived the early days have once more returned  to their peaceful avocations in the knowledge of having played a noble part in the defence of the Empire.

Of the individual achievements a volume could be written. Every man who played a part in those stern days has performed a worthy service, and earned an immortal name for the “glorious 7th.” They were fortunate in having good leaders all through. Captain Greg and Captain Mason took the company across the water, but the force of circumstances brought continuous changes in the command. Happy memories are held of Captain Payton, of Warwick, an officer loved by all under his direction. He was mortally wounded by shell fire near Mouquet Farm, a piece of shrapnel penetrating the lungs. Captain Caley was another popular and fearless officer, who met his death in the fighting around Passchendale. The battalion also possessed some splendid warrant and non-commissioned officers, of whom mention should be made of Company-Sergt.-Major Bryant, who was killed upon his initial entry into the line, and Company-Sergt.-Major A. C. Tomlinson, who was with the company until the time they reached the Hindenburg line. C.S.M. Tomlinson has now discarded the khaki and is back at Rugby again.

AN N.C.O.’S DIARY.
WHAT THE RUGBY MEN SAW IN FRANCE.

An interesting record of life and impressions of the local men in France has been preserved by Arm. Staff-Sergt F. H. Dodson, who was with the company during the early part of their active service career. Staff-Sergt. Dodson has compiled a diary of his experiences, from letters sent home from time to time, and although mention of strictly military matters was at that time taboo, his notes provide entertaining reading of how life and customs across the water appeared to the Rugby contingent. We have selected some extracts from his diary and have pleasure in publishing them.

Staff-Sergt. Hodson first describes the embarkation of the company from Southampton on the evening in March, 1915, “ When off the Isle of Wight,” he writes, “ all lights were turned out. I lay on the bed soon after seven and did not notice the ship start, but woke up once in the night and heard the waves swishing by the portholes. I did not notice we had arrived in France until the boat gave a slight bump at the quay about 1.30 a.m. We did not disembark until after 6 a.m. ; then we had a long and trying march through Le Havre to the heights above to a camp. It was uphill the whole way. At the camp we only stayed one night under canvas, one blanket per man. It was a busy place. . .  Early in the morning we had orders to move, and marched down the hill again to the station and entrained, but before doing so bought about a yard of bread for sixpence for consumption in the train. We travelled in box wagons ; our’s was made for 26, but had 32 in, with the result that some had to stand during the trip, while the remainder lay down. . . . When marching through the town, the boys as usual ‘ chipped ‘ the passers-by, especially the girls, but this soon fell flat, because they took no notice of the remarks, not knowing English. . . . We had 25 hours in these trucks with two halts of half-an-hour each, one at Abbeville, where coffee was served out, and the next stop about 6 a.m., when we had hot tea. At the former place we picked up a corporal from Birmingham, who had fallen out of a previous train, luckily without hurting himself. He stayed with us three days until we could locate his regiment. When we detrained, it was raining and very uncomfortable, as it was rather warm also and we had a ten mile march in front of us to our appointed village billet. This march was very uninteresting, with the exception of some shrines by the wayside, which were new to us, and the large number of windmills to be seen. Some of these were very funny, the main body of the mill being very old, with one to three small rooms stuck on at absurd angles as an afterthought.

PROHIBITIONISTS PLEASE NOTE !
We arrived at the village Winezele about half-past five, and were able to get billeted before dark. Here we stayed three days. This village was remarkable owing to the fact that there were more estaminets (public-houses) than private houses, there being as many as six next door to each other. . .  Most of the customs at this place seem to be years behind the times. For instance. the butcher drove a pig up the street, and when in front of his shop, hit it on the head with a mallet. While it was stunned, he stuck it, and finished the business on the road without further ado. We also had our first lesson here in French, and were told that the further we went it would become more difficult ! On the first morning we had our first sight of an aeroplane being shelled, and incidentally heard the big guns for the first time. Of course, they were several miles away. On Sunday we marched to Bailleul, sixteen miles, and most of the way over the cobbles. These were awful to march on. When a couple of miles from Bailleul we passed a lonely grave by the roadside, and further on and nearer the town a larger number with inscriptions to the N.C.O.’s and men of the Warwicks. It made our fellows think that they were quite amongst it. We stayed at Bailleul until Thursday noon, but nothing happened of any account, and very little of interest until Thursday night, when a Taube came over and dropped two bombs. I was billeted with the Stationmaster, and lived just opposite the station. One of the bombs was aimed at the gas work, and one at the Station, but both missed their mark. The former dropped in the field just beyond and the explosion shook our house from top to bottom, and of course startled the inhabitants. My landlady rapped at the door and shouted, “ Monsieur ! Zeppelin ! Zeppelin ! You no comprie!” and she got quite frantic because I would not get up. It was at this town, a fairly large one, that we began to notice the

CRUDE SANITARY ARRANGEMENTS.
For instance, the street we were in was nearly three-quarters of a mile long, straight, but uphill. Water is laid on, but not to the houses, only a standpipe at intervals. The women and the servants of the bigger house have a yoke and carry two pails for their water. All the slops are emptied in the gutter until by the time the bottom of the street is reached it is quite a miniature stream. . .  The streets luckily are paved with sets, and are not noticed until you get out of the town. Here our people are treating the ditches with chemicals. At this town I saw more motor traction than I had ever seen before. . .  The local traction is very crude-three-wheeled carts, wagons with half bodies pulled by horses or cows, and the smaller by dogs. . . Well, we moved out of Bailleul on Thursday to Armentieres, an eight mile march over cobbles the whole of the way, and were billeted in a huge school, evidently a kind of grammar school, complete with a chapel and entertainment room with stage and scenery. The chapel was the most gorgeous I have ever seen. A shell had been through the roof on the opposite side of the square, . . . there was not a whole pane of glass in the place except the chapel. We remarked that although every room had been partly wrecked, the chapel was not touched. It does seem odd. but the crucifixes out here somehow or other just get missed.

THE 7TH’S BAPTISM OF FIRE.
It was here where the 7th had their first experience of the trenches, and incidentally their first casualties, but not serious. . .  In the town many people lived in the cellars, owing to the shells and bombs dropping on the place. Over the cellar gratings they had bags of earth to prevent stray shrapnel bullets penetrating. In fact we had not been in the town an hour before a Taube came over and dropped a bomb in a square, killing a civilian and injuring several Territorials. Taking things all round, however, the inhabitants take things as they come, and don’t worry about shells or anything else. For instance, on Easter Monday I wanted a bit of turning done and found a small machine-shop attached to a house, but nobody was at home. The next-door neighbour was surprised that we wanted work done. “ Easter Monday, Monsieur gone for holiday ” “and within the range of shell fire ! They had already had two shells through the place. ” what indifference ! We left on Tuesday and marched back to Bailleul.

(This diary will be continued next week).

IN MEMORIAM.

GILLINGS.-In loving memory of THOMAS GILLINGS, of Dunchurch, who died on July 19, 1918, aged 82. Also of WALTER EDWARD, son of the above, who died in France from wounds on July 18, 1917, aged 23.-From Mother and Family.

GILLINGS.-In fond remembrance of WALTER, who died of wounds in France on August 18, 1917. R.I.P.-Not forgotten by Annie and Mr. & Mrs. Fox.

LEACH.-In loving memory of our dear son, PERCY JOHN LEACH, who died on August 6th, 1915.
“ For honour, liberty, and truth
He sacrificed his glorious youth.
He died, if it were death, to give his life,
That all his friends might live.”
-From his loving Father and Mother, Brothers and Sisters.

BOLTON.-In sad but loving birthday remembrance of RALPH JAMES BOLTON, 14th R.W.R., reported missing April 14, 1918, now officially reported died on that date or since.
“No one knows the parting,
Or what the parting cost :
But God in His tender mercy
Has gained what I have lost.”
-Sadly missed by Addie and all at 2 Dovey Street, Princes Park, Liverpool.

COX.-In loving memory of our dear brother, PTE. FREDERICK FRANCIS COX, who lost his life through shell shock on August 16, 1917, in France ; aged 24 years.
“ We often pause to think, dear brother,
And wonder how you died.
With no one near who loved you, dear,
Before you closed your eyes.
You nobly did your duty,
And like a hero fell ;
Could we have held your drooping head,
Or heard your last farewell.”
– Sadly missed from home. From his loving Father, Brothers, and Sisters.

REEVE.-In loving memory of Lance-Corpl. FRANK BASHAM REEVE, beloved son of Mrs. Reeve, 168 Murray Road, missing since March 21, 1918, now presumed to have been killed on that date, aged 30 years.

SPARKES.-In loving memory of my dear husband, FREDERICK WILLIAM SPARKES, killed in action in France on August 11, 1918.- “ If love could save thou had’st not died.”-From his loving Wife and Children.

8th Aug 1919. “The Warwickshire Lads” What Rugby Units did in the Great War.

“THE WARWICKSHIRE LADS.”

WHAT RUGBY UNITS DID IN THE GREAT WAR.

WITH THE YEOMANRY IN EGYPT, GALLIPOLI, PALESTINE AND FRANCE.

Under this heading we have endeavoured to get together a complete and authoritative account of the doings of Rugby men on the various war fronts from 1914 to 1918. Owing to the regulations of the Defence of the Realm Act all references to these matters by the Press were, of course, strictly prohibited during hostilities. But, although many of the events now related will seem to be already relegated to the “ long ago ” it is only just that there should be on record some recital of the losses and successes of the local units. As we are anxious to make our narrative as comprehensive and complete as possible, we shall be glad if any of our readers would amplify our articles or rectify any omissions that may inadvertently occur.

Few towns of the same size have greater reason to be proud of the exploits of their citizens in the great war than Rugby. This has been repeated so often by speakers at various meetings for war objects held in the town that it almost passes for a truism, but it is an indisputable fact that in all spheres, whether it be in the matter of fighting men, munition workers, or war loan investors, the Rugby people have played their part in the great a struggle manfully and well.

Men from Rugby have fought on every front and in every regiment of our grand old Army ; but the thoughts of the townspeople were, quite naturally, chiefly centred upon the four units with which the name of Rugby has been so intimately associated, Viz. : E Company, 7th R.W.R., the Warwickshire Yeomanry, the Howitzer Battery, and the 220th Army Troop Company.

During the war it was impossible, owing to the strict censorship, for the doings of particular units to be published to the world ; but now that the fighting has ceased, and the iron hand of the censor has been removed, it may be of interest to our readers if we briefly trace the histories of the four Rugby units from the fateful 4th of August, 1914, to the never-to-be-forgotten 11th of November, 1918, which saw the final humiliation of the powerful Central Empires.

THE WARWICKSHIRE YEOMANRY.

To begin with the Yeomanry. Few mounted regiments have covered themselves with greater glory during the war than the gallant Warwickshires, and it is a source of pride to feel that Rugby men have been associated with all their exploits.

At the outbreak of war the Rugby Troop (under S.Q.M.S. J. Tait) of C Squadron consisted of about 20 men recruited from the town and surrounding villages. Immediately on mobilisation they proceeded to Livermere Park, Norfolk, where the first three months’ training took place. From there they proceeded to Newbury Racecourse, after which they were transferred to Donnington, near Norwich. In April they embarked at Southampton for overseas service. The horses were despatched first on the Wayfarer, which, it will be remembered, was torpedoed by a German U- boat near the Scilly Isles. As the result of this disaster, the regiment suffered its first casualties, five men being drowned, including a member of the Rugby Troop, Corpl. Powell, son of the late Rector of Swinford. The embarkation of the regiment was delayed several days owing to this sinking ; but the journey, when it was commenced, was completed in safety, and Alexandria was reached on April 20th. In Egypt the regiment underwent a course of intensive training in open cavalry work until the end of July, when they were dismounted, turned into infantry, and fitted out with packs. They left Alexandria about August 12th, and landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula on the morning of the 19th. Two days afterwards—in the afternoon—they went into action, and first came under shell fire when they made an advance across the Plains to Chocolate Hill. Here about 30 per cent, of the regiment became casualties, many falling with dysentery, pneumonia, &c.

They withdrew from the Peninsula on the last day of October, and proceeded to Mudros, where they remained until the end of November. On reaching Alexandria they went into camp at Mena, near Cairo, leaving there on Boxing Day, 1915, for the camp at Salich. Here a composite regiment was made up of the 5th Mounted Division, which consisted of the Warwick, Worcester, and Gloucester Yeomanries, for service on the Western Frontier, where they saw a lot of fighting against various Arab tribes. They afterwards took part in the push across the Sinai Peninsula, starting from Kantara on the Suez Canal, and fighting in every action till the fall of Jerusalem on December 9,1917. They then returned for a rest with the intention of recuperating preparatory to further fighting in Palestine, but orders were received that they were to dismounted and formed into a machine gun squadron. They were taken to Sidi Bishr, near Alexandria, and were then fully equipped for France. On the way the transport, the Leasowe Castle, was torpedoed, and Lieut-Col. Cheap and the Adjutant, Capt. Drake, together with a number of men, were drowned.

ON THE WESTERN FRONT.

After the unfortunate experience on the “ Leasowe Castle,” the regiment (now amalgamated with the Notts Hussars Yeomanry and known as the 100th Warwick and S.N. Yeomanry, Batt. M.G.C.) returned to Sidi Bishr Camp, Alexandria, to be re-equipped and await another boat. It was three weeks before the next convoy was ready to start, the battalion in the meantime putting in most of their time in learning the working of the Vickers machine gun, which they were soon to use with telling effect on the Germans in France. However, by the middle of June everything was ready, and the battalion for the last time marched to the docks. Strange to say, it was the same convoy with the exception of the “ Leasowe Castle,” which was to transport the troops, it having made the return journey without further mishap. The “ Caledonian ” filled the gap made by the “ Leasowe Castle,” and this was the boat allocated to the 100th M.G.C. The destination of the convoy was to be Taranti, on the Italian coast, instead of Marseilles, and it was expected that the journey would occupy three days. The convoy of six boats steamed out of Alexandria soon after mid-day on the 18th of June with a strong escort of Japanese destroyers, and the Warwickshire lads once more said “ Good bye ” to Egypt and the many and varied experiences which they had gone through since landing there in April, 1915. Their work in the East was finished, and they were called on to take a hand in the final struggle on the main front. It was therefore with mixed feelings of sorrow and gladness that they watched the coastline of Egypt slipping gradually from their view, sorrow for the comrades they had left behind, their horses which they would never ride again, and at not being able to be in at the death and successful conclusion of the Palestine Expedition, they being one of the first regiments ordered to that Front at the commencement of operations. Gladness, too, that they had been one of the regiments chosen from amongst the various yeomanry units to fight in France, and that they were journeying nearer to “ England, home, and beauty ” after neatly 3½ years in the East, with a prospect of getting their long delayed leave.

RAILWAY JOURNEY ACROSS ITALY.

Luck was with them, and the journey was uneventful until the coastline of Italy was sighted, when several heavy explosions were heard. One or two of the escort were seen to leave their places and make out to sea. More explosions followed, the results of depth charges dropped by our destroyers. It was eventually announced that another attempt had been made to torpedo the convoy, but happily the escort had been too smart for them. Taranti was reached in safety about noon on the 21st June, and the next day the railway journey across Italy and France was commenced. Cattle trucks, each carrying thirty men. were used. The journey proved an experience in itself, and under better travelling conditions would have been a pleasant holiday ; but crowded trucks, Army food, and limited recreation more than counter-balanced the splendid scenery and enthusiastic reception accorded the troops. After exactly seven days’ travelling the destination, Etaples, on the French coast, was reached. At that time Etaples was a big detail camp, and Comiers close by was a training centre for machine gun troops. There were also several hospitals in the vicinity. The place had been visited by enemy aeroplanes on several occasions, and had suffered many casualties by bombs, the hospital being hit and much loss of life occasioned. When the 100th Batt. M.G.C. had put up their tents and settled down for the night, weary after their long journey in the train, and prepared for a good night’s sleep, they were not a little annoyed when Fritz came over about midnight and bombed the whole place for over two hours. Unfortunately there were no shelters, and the only thing the battalion could do was to lie in their tents and stick it. A similar thing happened three nights in succession, and although none of the 100th Battalion were hit, it was felt that this luck could not hold, and they were accordingly moved into a little wood about half-way between Etaples and Comiers. Here a six weeks’ course on the machine gun was commenced, at the end of which time it was considered the battalion would be fit to take their place in the line. Here, also, the long-delayed and much-looked for Blighty leave was commenced.

HELPING IN THE LAST BIG PUSH.

There was much talk as to whether the 100th Batt. M.G.C. would be a mobile or foot unit, and at one time it seemed certain that they would become a Motor Machine Gun Corps until the last moment, but motor-cars were not available, and the battalion became an Infantry Machine Gun Corps attached to the 4th Army (under Sir H. Rawlinson), operating on the Somme Front. The Allied big-push had just commenced when the 100th finished training Their training completed, and they being pronounced fit to take the line, they were moved by rail towards the end of August to the small village of Warloe, not far from Albert, the latter place having just been taken from the Germans. Here all the packs and unnecessary luggage was left, and the place became the rear base for the battalion. The first action in which the battalion took part on French soil was at Combles early in September, when two companies were attached to the 12th & 18th Divisions respectively for barrage purposes. Here too, the Battalion had its first casualties. Ephy Forest was the scene of the next action, and it was here that some of the heaviest fighting on this front took place, the nature of the country bring such as to make it an admirable line of defence for the Germans. The battalion was deputed to assist the divisions forming the 3rd Corps by putting up barrages preparatory to the attacks in conjunction with the Artillery, and were complimented on their excellent work on more than one occasion. They suffered their heaviest casualties whilst in this area, but their strength was continually augmented by drafts of M.G.C men from the base. The drafts of Yeomanry had automatically ceased when the battalion was formed, so that the percentage of Yeomanry to M.G.C. men in the battalion was constantly on the decline ; whilst fighting around the sector was still going on ; the battalion was withdrawn, and sent to help the 9th Corps in the St. Quentin sector, and were able to help the infantry to cross the Canal du Nord.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCE.

As soon as all objectives had been gained here the battalion was returned to the 3rd Corps, and took part in the fighting round Le Catelet. About this time the Germans were being pushed back on all fronts, and the Hindenburg line was fast crumbling. The battalion was constantly engaged right up to Le Cateau, where the last big stand was made by the Germans in this sector. Very severe indeed was the fighting round about Le Cateau, and fresh laurels had been gained by the battalion before the enemy were ejected from the town. After this the battalion was withdrawn for a rest and billeted in Le Cateau. But it was not for long—long rests were not known in those days—and they were soon on the track of Jerry again. After a short tussle Landrecies, the next big town, and the last but one of any importance, was captured. The pace was getting hot, and it was all the troops could do to keep up with the enemy, who relied on his machine guns to hold the attackers up. It was quite a common occurrence for the cavalry at this time to go out for miles, and when they returned report that they had not come in touch with the enemy. Avernes was the last place of siege on French soil, which the battalion helped to take, and when the fighting ceased on November 11, 1918, the battalion was only a few miles from the Belgian border.

The casualties had been pretty severe, and many of the old boys who had arrived right through the Gallipoli and Egyptian fighting were killed or wounded during the three mouths’ fighting the battalion had taken part in since they arrived in France. Many, also, had obtained commissions, so that by the time the fighting ceased the actual number of yeomen who had been right through with the regiment from the time it left England in April, 1918, was probably not more than 30. After the Armistice the battalion was included in the troops for the Army of Occupation of the Rhine, and had actually tackled a good part of the journey to Germany when the order was cancelled, and the battalion remained in Belgium until demobilisation commenced.

The Warwickshire Yeomanry have had the unique experience of fighting as infantry, cavalry, and machine gunners during their term of active service, and in all three roles have shown their fighting qualities, which are typical of our race.

The best work the Regiment did as Yeomanry was the capture of 14 field guns at Huj. This was purely cavalry work, and the gallant charge of the Yeomanry while the guns were fixing with the sights set at zero will be always remembered as among the most thrilling and daring deeds of the great war.

POPULAR RUGBY N.C.O.’s DEATH.
CORPORAL BOSWORTH KILLED IN RUSSIA.

Further details are to hand in regard to Corpl. Frederick Albert Bosworth, who, as announced in our last issue, was recently killed in action while serving with the R.F.A. in the North Russian Expeditionary Force. Corpl. Bosworth was a member of the Rugby Howitzer Battery at the time the war broke out, his home address being 86 Bath Street. He remained with the local battery during its service in France until he was severely wounded in August, 1917. For his services over there he was awarded the Military Medal, and later a bar. and also the Medaille Militaire. Although week from his wounds and suffering from the effects of gas, Corpl. Bosworth was quite ready to “ carry on ” in North Russia when the call came for help.

It is quite evident from letters received from his officers that Corpl. Bosworth did justice to his own reputation and to the good name of the battery. The deceased corporal was at one time employed as an apprentice at Messrs. Willans and Robinson’s works, and was familiarly known to his many friends as “ Sammy.”

THE COLONEL’S SYMPATHY.
The commanding officer of the battery writes to the family as follows :—
“VI. Brigade R.F.A.,
North Russian Exp. Force.
DEAR MR. BOSWORTH,— I am most fearfully sorry for you all in having lost your son. He was shot and never recovered consciousness, dying almost at once, so he can’t have suffered any pain. He was the man in the whole of my Brigade that I would have wished most to bring home safe, when we finally get out of this country. He was the best signaller I’d got, and as fine a soldier as there is in the Brigade, which is full of good men. He was popular both with officers and men, and everybody grieves and sympathises with you. I was at his funeral. He was buried with full military honours in a very pretty little village cemetery at a place called Limbushi, and I am trying to get a photograph of the church for you. With my deepest sympathy, yours sincerely, C. T. LAWRENCE, Lt. Colonel R.F.A.”

LONG ITCHINGTON.
DEATH OF MR. ALBERT WHITEHEAD.—We regret to record the death of Albert (Bert) Whitehead, which took place at Colchester after a severe illness from a painful internal complaint. The deceased was the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. F. Whitehead, of this village. He answered Lord Kitchener’s call, enlisting in the early part of the war in the Coldstream Guards, with whom he served at the Battle of Loos. He afterwards contracted trench fever, and was invalided to England. Prior to enlistment, deceased was engaged with his father in the budding trade. He was a general favourite in the village, having been an active member of the cricket, football, and rifle clubs. He was in his 25th year.

OUTING OF OLD VOLUNTEERS.—On Wednesday a party of “ old crocks,” who served in the Rugby Volunteer Company years ago, made their annual pilgrimage to Stoneleigh Deer Park, and spent a very pleasant re-union on the old camping ground. The weather was delightful, and the beauty of the mediaeval surroundings was never more striking.

DUNCHURCH.
WITH regard to a dance held at the Green Man Hotel paddock on July 12th, the following is a balance-sheet. The dance was in aid of the St. Dunstan’s Hostel for Blinded Soldiers and Sailors. The receipts were £10 2s. 8d., expenses 4s. 6d., leaving a total profit of £9 18s. 2d. This has been handed to the fund, and the committee wish to thank the members of the Dunchurch Brass Band, who so kindly gave their services free.

EX-SERVICE MEN’S DAY.
NOVEL BANK HOLIDAY FETE AT NEWBOLD.

The discharged and demobilised sailors, soldiers, and airmen of Newbold held a very successful ex-service men’s day on Bank Holiday. The arrangements included a dinner, tea, cricket match—Ex-Service Men v. Others—sports, and dancing during the evening. An excellent three-course dinner was served by Mr. John I. Gamble, of the Barley Mow, in a marquee erected in a paddock, kindly lent for the occasion by Mr. J. Parris Cox, some 300 sitting down to the meal.

After “ The King ” and a silent toast to “ Absent Comrades,” the Vicar (Rev. J. B. Hewitt) expressed the great pleasure it gave all of them in attending and helping to make the day a success. They were very pleased indeed to have the de mobilised men back with them, but he rather thought that, instead of the men doing the work in entertaining them, it should have been the other way about—they should have been waiting upon their returned soldiers. However, he congratulated those concerned on the admirable arrangements made and the splendid manner in which these were being carried out. He wished the movement every success.

Mr. F. Healey responded, and thanked the Vicar and friends present for the kind and sympathetic encouragement given the demobilised men in their little effort. He extended a hearty welcome to everyone. The idea of holding a festive day of their own originated amongst a few venturesome spirits in the village, and was only made possible by the hearty cooperation and generous response of their numerous friends. When he told them that the whole of the vegetables had not only been given (some 250lbs. each of potatoes and vegetables), but had also been cooked, and the meat cooked as well, by people in the village they would realise to some small extent what support had been accorded them voluntarily. He also sincerely thanked everyone who had contributed towards sending Christmas presents to their fighting men during the past five years—he assured them that this had been much appreciated.

After dinner the cricket match was played on the old recreation field (by kind permission of Mr. W. P. Day), and resulted in a victory for the “ Others,” the scores being—E-Service Men, 37 ; the Others, 89 for 5 wickets (Rev. J. B. Hewitt, 32. not out). A return was then made to the marquee, where some 350 sat down to tea.

Afterwards an adjournment was made to the recreation ground near the schools, where dancing took place until the proceedings were interrupted by the rain.

During the day the Rugby Steam Shed Band gave an excellent programme of music.

Those who assisted were :—Waitresses, Mesdames E. Clarke, Harris, Wray, Stanton, W. Allen, A. Allen, Read, W. Hipwell, W. Gamble, Smith, Robinson, Clewlow, Crowdy, Misses Gamble and V. Hipwell ; carvers, Messrs. J. Martin, J. Vears, F. Gamble, F. Jefferson, S. Sutton, Brett, and others. Vegetables were given by Messrs. Gill, Knowles, T. Smith, C. Heath, Wilson, Newman, J. Harratt, Stone, H. Clarke, Curtis, Long, C. Harris, P. Gamble, F. Gamble, W. Gamble, and A. Thompson. The following ladies are to be congratulated on their splendid cooking :—The hostess, Mrs. J. T. Gamble ; Mesdames Prestidge, H. Clarke, Howes, J. Harris, Timms, J. Cave, W. Gamble, F. Gamble, Robinson, Reynolds, Newman, Clewlow, W. Hipwell, and others.

The demobilised men who carried out the arrangements were Messrs. S. Smith (chairman), Gil1, Knowles, O. Wilson, F. Harris, W. Coles, W. Gamble, J. Growdy, F. Jefferson, with C. T. Dadley treasurer and F. Healey secretary.

The expenses amounted to some £70, and after paying these a slight balance remains. A balance sheet will be issued in due course.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR.

AS OTHERS SEE US.
VISITOR’S DELIGHT IN THE PEACE PROCESSION.

SIR,—As a visitor to your interesting old town during the recent peace celebrations, I am writing to congratulate you on the splendid way everything was carried out.
I was particularly pleased with the procession on Peace Day, one item of which, a lady representing peace, specially took my fancy. I was rather surprised, however, on receiving your valuable paper this week, to learn that this lady did not receive a prize.—Yours, etc.,
OLD RUGBEIAN.
Southampton.

THE CRUCIFIX AS A WAR MEMORIAL.
A REPLY TO RECENT LETTERS.

SIR,—I was both surprised and amazed at the letters of “ M. E. Harding ” and “ A Churchman .” on the above subject in your issue of July 25th. It is indeed most painful to read of members of the Church of England expressing their “ deep regret ” at a proposal to erect what is, after all, merely a “ blest memorial to our dying Lord.”

“ M. E. Harding ” evidently labouring under a very wrong impression when stating “ we worship not a dead Christ of the Cross.” Of course we do not. Whoever suggested worshipping the crucifix ? I was under the impression that it was to be set up as a memorial to those who had fallen in war. If so, then the word “ worship ” has nothing whatever to do with it, and “ M. E. Harding’s ” argument is plainly “ off the map.”

“ A Churchman ” also displays lamentable lack of understanding in saying : “ It is illegal and is breaking the Second Commandment.” If the crucifix is to be condemned on those grounds, then all the thousands of monuments, statues, and images of kings and queens and famous men and women that adorn the length and breadth of the country are also “ illegal ” and wrong, for remember the words of the commandment : “. . . nor the likeness of anything that is in heaven above or in the earth beneath. . . .” One can see in a moment that such a construction of the meaning of the commandment is ridiculous. Why was the Commandment written in the very first place ? Because the Children of Israel made images of other gods and worshipped them, thus forsaking the true and only God. Is the crucifix an image of a false god ? Do we worship the crucifix itself ? How can it possibly make us forsake the true and only God ? How could God possibly be “ Jealous,” as the Commandment tells us, of honour paid to His Son ? Rather are our hearts filled with an overwhelming sense of love and devotion as we gaze upon the symbol of our Faith and think how wonderful and amazing God’s love for us must be that he should “ give His only begotten Son to suffer and to die.”

Surely a beautiful representation of the greatest sacrifice ever made is the best possible memorial we could have ? Nothing more expressive of calm dignity and peace could be erected.

In conclusion, I would point out that on St. Swithin’s Day, the Bishop of London solemnly dedicated a crucifix in the churchyard of St. Peter’s, Fulham.—Yours, etc.,
NOT ASHAMED OF CHRIST CRUCIFIED.

DUNCHURCH AVENUE.

The County Roads and Bridges Committee [Warwickshire County Council] reported having before them the draft conveyance from the Duke of Buccleuch to the Council of the lands forming part of the site of the Dunchurch Avenue. It recites the gift by the Duke to the Council of half the nett proceed a of sale of the trees, and in consideration of the conveyance of the land to them the Council covenant with his Grace that they will within fifteen months from the date of the deed replant the avenue, and afterwards maintain it. The committee learn that the draft has been approved by the Dunchurch Avenue Committee, and that that committee are prepared to replant the avenue ; and it was recommended that the draft be approved on behalf of the Council, which was done. Provision is to be made in the next pay order for a sum not exceeding £25,000 for the purposes of the Small Holdings and Allotments Acts, and the committee was empowered to expend any sum therefrom needed for acquiring and adapting land for small holdings.

IN MEMORIAM.

AVIS.—In proud and honoured memory of Lance-Corpl. MARK AVIS, 5th Oxford and Buck L.I., killed in action on august 6, 1915. —“ Greater love has no man than to lay down his life for others,”—From his loving Sisters and Brothers all.

BARNWELL.—In loving memory of Pte. FRED BARNWELL, R.M.L.T., who died in Colchester Heart Hospital on August 2, 1918, aged 31 years.—From his sorrowing Mother, Brother and Sisters, and Lizzie.

DANIELS.—In ever-loving memory of our dear son, Corpl. LEONARD GORDON DANIELS, Grenadier Guards, who died from wounds in Belgium, August 4, 1917.
“ Splendid you passed,
The great surrender made,
Into the light that nevermore shall fade.”
—From his loving Mother, Father & Brothers.

DUNKLEY.—In ever-loving memory of our two dear boys, PERCY & HARRY DUNKLEY, who were killed in France on July 25 and July 30, 1916.
“ Days of sadness still come o’er us,
tears in silence often flow,
Thinking of the days we lost you ;
Just three years ago.
Too far away thy graves to me,
But not too far to think of thee.
—From his loving Mother & Father & Sister.

ELLIOTT.—In ever loving memory of our darling boy, PERCY GEORGE ELLIOTT, who fell in action “ somewhere in France,” August 9, 1918.
“ We little thought his time so short
When home on leave he came ;
Out to the front he bravely went,
Never to return again.
We often sit in silence,
No eye may see up weep ;
But deep within our aching hearts
His memory we’ll ever keep.”
—Never forgotten by his sorrowing Mother, Father, and Brother.

LEWIS.—In loving memory of LEWIS LEWIS killed in action on August 8, 1918, aged 18.—From his loving Father, Mother, Sisters and Brothers, 35 King Edward Road.

MATTHEWS.—In loving memory of WALTER JAMES MATTHEWS, Long Lawford, who was killed in action in France on August 6, 1918.
“ Sleep on, beloved, and take thy rest ;
We loved you well, but God loved best.”
—From his loving Mother, Father, Brothers and Sisters.

 

RUGBY’S PEACE REJOICINGS.

RUGBY’S PEACE REJOICINGS.
SPLENDID PROGRAMME MARRED BY A STEADY DOWNPOUR.
Grand Spectacular Procession WATCHED BY HUGE CROWDS.
UNION JACK UNFURLED BY CRIMEAN VETERAN

Rugby’s Peace Day preparations generally were of a character peculiarly in keeping with the spirit of the occasion. That there was no lack of enthusiastic interest on the part of all classes of townspeople was well evidenced by the spontaneous endeavours of practically all householders and occupiers of large premises to interpret their sense of the national feeling by a display of bunting on a more or less lavish scale. The town has been as acutely affected by the four years of travail as most districts in the kingdom, and there can be very few families locally who have not been directly represented among the ranks of Britain’s manhood who won a glorious peace. What one might term the “ peace feeling ” may be said to have asserted itself upon the consciousness on Friday last when the decorative work commenced.

Simultaneously it seemed the customary sombre greyness of the streets and thoroughfares gave way to a transformation of scarlet, blue and orange, and by Saturday morning the town presented an appearance of festive colouring for the celebrating of the Peace. Not that the decorations were in any way on an ultra-ambitious principle, and very few of us would have had it so. There was an absence of grand spectacular achievement in the way of gorgeous tableaux or grand theatrical effects which any less serious occasion might have merited. The general style of the preparations revealed a studied intelligence of striking the right note of thankfulness after the years of doubt. The result, therefore, inspired a full appreciation of the sense of genuine happiness that we were at last at peace, without that tendency toward reckless irresponsibility which might otherwise have been stimulated. The townspeople have every reason to be proud in the knowledge that their anticipations as to what was needed coincided with the real sentiment of the community.

THE DECORATIONS.

From the artistic point of view the decorations were well balanced. Sheep Street and the Market Place—as befitted these centrally situated thoroughfares—were a blaze of colour. The Union Jack and the Royal Standard were the predominating emblems, but appreciation of our gallant Allies was well remembered, and the French and Belgian flags, as well as the Stars and Stripes, were given places among the galaxy of bunting. It was particularly pleasing to note that the houses facing the route of the procession wore well adorned. The Parish Church tower was surmounted by the Union Jack, and Rugby School flew the national emblem, the French, Belgian, and American flags over the main entrance. On the other hand, the local authorities’ offices at Benn Buildings were bare, except for a solitary Union Jack. Various mottoes of loyal and patriotic significance were features in the decorative schemes and festoons, streamers and banners blended well with these. Several of the larger houses in Hillmorton Road presented a very festive appearance, one spacious front garden being tastefully adorned with Chinese lanterns. The practical effect of these was, of course, rendered impossible owing to the rain.

It was, however, in some of the less conspicuous thoroughfares, perhaps, that the most striking originality was displayed. Several of the roads leading from Newbold Road were gaily bedecked with streamers and festoons winding across the street. New Street and the corner adjacent to the Lawford Road are worthy of mention, also, in this direction. A bright touch of humour was afforded by some of the dwellers in Avon Street, who suspended an effigy of the Kaiser, complete with an imitation German helmet, across the street, with an inscription inviting him to take his departure to a certain destination popularly considered to possess a climate more tropical than the English summer. Clifton Road and the other roads leading out of the town took up the chain of decorations with bright effect. The handsome decorative effects at the Employment Exchange, Castle Street, were carried out by the staff, who also personally defrayed the expenditure incurred.

THE SPIRIT OF THE SIGHT-SEERS.

People were early astir on Saturday morning, and every thoroughfare was a scene of animation. Although the crowd were in a real holiday mood, it was satisfactory to observe that their whole interest was centred upon the events of the day, and, with the possible exception of the conduct later in the day of a few irresponsible youths, there was a marked absence of anything approximating to the “ mafficking ” spirit. The demeanour of the crowds throughout the day was one of thoughtful and appreciative keenness in the varied entertainments provided.

THE UNFURLING OF THE FLAG.

The official programme was timed to commence at eight o’clock by the firing of a volley by a detachment of Rugby School O.T.C. from the Church Tower, but at the last minute this was varied, and the detachment, thirty in number and commanded by Capt. Whitworth, carried out their part of the programme at seven o’clock, much to the disappointment of some hundreds of persons who, unaware of any alteration in the arrangements, assembled near the church shortly before eight o’clock. At 8.15 the bells of the Parish and St. Marie’s Churches struck up merry peals, which, as one good lady expressed it, “ helped people to realise at last that Peace had really come.” Three-quarters of an hour afterwards the bands which had been engaged for the day—viz., Rugby Steam Shed (bandmaster, Mr. E. R. Stebbing), Rugby Town (bandmaster, Mr. H. R. Robinson), Salvation Army (bandmaster, Mr. J. H. Burton), and Bilton Brass Hand (bandmaster, Mr. H. W. Wheatley)—played selections in Wood Street (corner Newbold Road), Clifton Road (near St. Peter’s Church), Cambridge Street (near Mr. S. Robbins’s warehouse), and Lawford Road (corner Northcote Road), after which they proceeded to the Market Place, where a large crowd began to assemble shortly before ten o’clock. Here a temporary platform and flagstaff had been erected, and punctually at 10.15 Bombardier Joe Norman, Rugby’s Crimean veteran, mounted the platform and ran the Union Jack up. The gallant old soldier’s appearance was greeted with loud cheers by the crowd, which extended from the Clock Tower to the Advertiser Office in one direction, to Benn field in another, and to the junction of Sheep Street and High Street in the other, and must have numbered well over 10,000 persons. The cheers were renewed as the grand old flag broke at the top of the pole, and as it fluttered proudly in the breeze every head was bared, and the massed bands struck up the strains of the National Anthem.

Messrs. H. Birkett, A. J. Tiivett, and A. Woodhams then led the singing of “ Land of Hope and Glory ” to the accompaniment of the massed bands (conducted by Mr. E. H. Stebbing), after which the choirs of the town sang “ The Old Hundredth ” and “ O God, our help in ages past.” This was followed by a fine rendering of the “ Hallelujah Chorus ” by the bands, who also played the national airs of the Allies, not excepting Russia, in honour of the gallant services she rendered to the common cause before her defection through Bolshevik intrigues.

Many people watched the proceedings from the balconies and windows surrounding the Market Place, and one adventurous Boy Scout obtained a fine view from a precarious seat on the top of a lamp standard near the Royal George Hotel.

EVENTS IN THE RECREATION GROUND.

The spacious enclosure at the Recreation Ground made an ideal assembling point for most of the day’s attractions. The showery weather, which culminated in a steady downpour toward the evening, of course marred the general enjoyment. and a considerable part of the proceedings here had to be curtailed in consequence. Four concert parties performed in different parts of the grounds, as well as an individual ventriloquist turn, but they were working under difficulties the whole time. Despite the unpropitious weather, however, a surprisingly large concourse of people were present during the whole of the day.

Mr. W. J. Sutton opened the proceedings from the band stand. Mr. Sutton is a ventriloquist and marionette and Punch and Judy entertainer of real ability, and, unlike so many of his class, he knows the value of originality. His jokes and quiplets had a refreshing vigour, and in each of his varied roles he evoked the unbounded enthusiasm of the youthful element, which formed a large proportion of the crowd. Mr. Sutton was a particularly fortunate gentleman in having the use of the band stand, for he was thus able to perform in the dry while the concert parties often had to make a hurried return to their tents.

THE CONCERT PARTIES.

All the vaudeville parties were of an exceptional high standard, and such times as they were able to appear were all favoured with large and appreciative audiences. The “ Black and Ambers Patty,” under the direction of Mr. F. Gee, occupied the stage nearest the entrance. This was the first public appearance of the artistes working together as a party, and they speedily proved their popularity. They opened with the chorus, “ Laugh and the world laughs with you.” One of the most attractive of the artistes is Miss Phyllis Vann, a charming young soprano, of whom one may hold great expectations. Her sweet rendering of “ Peace on earth,” Darewski’s peace song, was a splendid effort. Miss N. Port’s singing of “ Angus McDonald ” gave much pleasure, while Miss I. Lucas sang “ Castellano ” with marked expression. Miss E. M. Kedge is also a vocalist of style and precision, and she was in excellent voice in her treatment of “ Bridesmaid.” Miss Woodbridge ably completed the lady representatives of the party. Mr. S. Mills and Mr. Gee are two comedians of a distinctly high order, and their turns together were greatly appreciated—in fact, the whole party were very strong in their concerted numbers. Mr. A. Mochrie’s humorous turns were delightful, his song, “ I cannot do my bally bottom button up,” being especially laughable. The more serious part of the programme was well sustained by Messrs. W. Henson, F. G. Ball, F. Walker, and Mochrie, all skilful vocalists. Mr. R. J. Littler was an efficient accompanist.

A well-balanced and intelligently selected programme was offered by the party of Mr. G. A. Maley, which included some artistes of real talent. The tenor songs of Mr. T. C. Thompson were received with eclat, while Mr. D. D. Currie’s voice was rich and tuneful. Mr. H. Birkett and Mr. G. A. Maley were popular favourites, with a very attractive repertoire. A splendid ovation was accorded the single lady member of this party, Miss Violet Miller, a delightful mezzo-soprano, whose selections were well suited to her voice. Her enunciation was pleasingly correct. The humourists, Mr. T. A. Pool and Mr. W. Bland, kept the spectators in a merry mood, their eccentric acrobatic turn being a very capable execution. It is interesting to note that the previous occasion upon which they performed this act together was with the British troops in France. Mr. A. J. Trivett ably presided at the piano.

A feature of Mr. C. T. Mewis’s party was the versatile character of the performance of Mr. J. Tackley, a humorous entertainer of many parts. His songs at the piano were well up-to-date, while his mimicry of various animals and birds evoked much appreciation. Mr. Bert Vallence also afforded much amusement with his topical choruses. Mr. Mewis found general favour with similar efforts, while Mr. H. Phillips and Mr. W. Jackson appeared in duets and solos, and acquitted themselves with credit. Miss Grace Mewis was an adept exponent of the banjo, and the accompaniments to the various numbers were carried out by Miss Elsie Jackson and Miss Madge Mewis.

The fates were particularly unkind to Mr. F. Giggs, inasmuch as the stage accommodating his party was in too close proximity to the daylight firework display to enable them to make an early start. However, Mr. Giggs had the services of some excellent ladies and gentlemen, and they lost no opportunity between the fireworks and the showers to demonstrate their abilities. The principal himself was as live an entertainer as ever, his refrain, “ Father’s got the wind up ” and “ The railway porter,” causing much mirth. Mr. Harry Lee, of Coventry, was a first-rate ventriloquist. with an apparently never-ending reserve of jokes and humorisms of the right sort. The audience would have liked to have seen more of him. Mr. A. Woodhams’ bass songs, which included “ The Company Sergeant-Major ” and “ Bashful Tom,” were loudly cheered ; while Mr. R. Bayliss, a baritone with a well-modulated voice, was heard to advantage in “ The wagoner ” and other songs. The duets and solo numbers of the Misses F. & E. Shillitoe were cleverly rendered, “ There’s a land ” being a noteworthy effort by these two ladies. A further variety to the programme was afforded by the pretty Scottish and other dances of the Misses C. & M. Rushall and Master Rushall. The three children interpreted these very prettily, and warmly deserved the spontaneous applause their services evoked. Mr. J. Betts and Mr. P. C. Longney shared the honours as accompanists.

THE DAYLIGHT FIREWORKS.

One of the few events which was carried out in its entirety was the display of daylight fireworks during the morning. The exhibition caused unbounded delight to the youngsters. The fire balloons and coloured smokes caused much shouting, and the festoons and flags which burst forth from the rockets were eagerly seized by the juveniles as they came gently floating to earth. But the most popular feature of all was, without question, the firing of the Japanese shells. Each explosion cast upon the wind a grotesque and weird figure—sometimes a jockey on horseback, and at others inflated representations of various animals.

A band performance by the Salvationists at six o’clock concluded the proceedings at the Recreation Ground. The band, under the direction of Bandmaster J. Burton, gave a splendid series of selections, opening with the National Anthem. “ Land of Hope and Glory ’’ was capably rendered as a euphonium solo by Mr. R. Martin, and the items by the band included Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus and “ ‘Neath the flag.”

In consequence of the rain, it was decided to postpone the carnival, firework display, and other attractions arranged.

The side-shows inseparable from such proceedings were well patronised during the day, including cocoanut shies and skittles. An attractively coloured table for the receipt of contributions for providing a dinner to the dependents of fallen soldiers was placed near the entrance to the grounds, and the appeal met with a generous response.

THE PROCESSION.

The great event of the day was undoubtedly the grand procession, which, however, was marred by a steady, and at times heavy, down-pour of rain, which commenced shortly after one o’clock and continued almost without intermission for the rest of the day. The sub-committee responsible for this part of the programme worked assiduously to make it a success, and the number and quality of the entries testified both to their energies and powers of organisation. Principal interest, of course, centred round the emblematical cars, the designs of which, on the whole, were unusually good. As the entries were drawn up waiting for the judging, one of the first to instinctively catch the eye was the ingenious display by the Rugby discharged and demobilised sailors, soldiers, and airmen. This consisted of five sections—the first (August 4, 1914), “ The Call to Arms,” depicted the recruiting sergeants and the “ butchers, the bakers, and candlestick-makers,” the men of all trades in fact, who, at the first beat of the drum, sprang into the ranks to accept the challenge insolently thrown down by the Teutonic powers. The next two scenes, “ A month later ” and “ Six months later,” showed the soldiers in the making, and afterwards “ doing their bit in the trenches,” with steel helmets, sheep skin tunics, trophies, &c. Then came the all-too-familiar group of “ Boys in Blue,” accompanied by members of the Warwick 40 and Warwick 60 Voluntary Aid Detachments, under the two commandants, Mrs. Simey and Miss Townsend. A herald, Mr. W. H. Taplin, preceded the car with the final tableau, “ For services rendered.” The figures in the tableau were : Britannia, Miss Winnie Tilley ; V.A.D., Miss Maud ; soldiers, R.S.M., E. J. Rose and Pte. A. Harvey ; and naval signaller, W. R. Warren. Several other discharged soldiers, attired as Yeomen of the Guard, acted as an escort to the car which was driven by Driver Murtagh, A.S.C.

THE “ BEATTY ” AND HER CREW.

In the tableau section the first prize was won by a very clever representation of a lifeboat (“ Beatty ”) and crew, entered by the Locomotive Department, L. & N.-W. Railway Station, the same department securing a special second prize in the same class for a very picturesque village smithy, in which the smith and his brawny assistants were seen busily working in a pretty rustic forge. Touches of realism were provided by a pony waiting to be shod and a blazing furnace. The B.T.H. tableau car, “ Peace and the Victorious Allies,” was very artistically arranged, and excited much favourable comment. Miss Brown, as Peace, was the central figure, and grouped around her in national costumes were representatives of the Allied nations, viz. : Britannia, Miss Haynes ; France, Miss Rolfe ; Italy, Miss Arnold ; Roumania, Miss Abercrombie ; Belgium, Miss Tromans ; Japan, Miss Westbury ; Serbia, Miss Smith ; Greece, Miss Rollins ; Portugal, Miss Bolton ; and America, Miss Smith. The designs on the young ladies’ dresses, all of which looked very charming, were hand-painted from patterns supplied by soldiers. The third prize went to what was considered by many to be the most effective display of all, “ The Arts of Peace ” by the B.T.H. Girls’ Club. This was intended to be a symbolic car, representing some of the recognised arts, both of work and play, all leading up to a beautiful, enthroned girl, typifying motherhood as the love triumphant above all the arts. The car itself was simply decorated in gold muslin and wreaths of laurels, preceded by a dancing child, Miss Mary Haselwood, and two heralds, Miss D. Hayward and Miss A. Merrick. Immediately behind was the art of work, the Mazda lamp, Miss Jessie Davison ; then following, encircling the car Play, consisting of cricket, Misses A. Clarke, S. Clarke, Anna Clarke, F. Farrar, L. Watts ; hockey, Misses M. Bastin and C. Francis ; gymnasium, Misses C. Kirby, M. Tuckey, E. Hirons, and M. Cannon ; tennis, Misses C. Avery, J. Cleton, A. Lusty, and R. Aland ; nursing, Misses G. Jones, E. Whittle, Elsie Whitehead, and A. Magic. On the car : Music, Misses L. Barby and E. Davison ; painting, Miss P. Butler ; sculpture, Miss E. Black ; needlework, Miss A. Kimberlin and Miss W. Renshaw ; basket work, Misses M. Sparkes, H. Grubb, V. Arnold, and Emily Whitehead ; cookery, Miss D. Bradshaw ; poetry, Miss M. Nightingale ; literature, Miss F. Archer ; astronomy, Miss E. Clarke. Miss Nellie Franklin was charming as a representation of motherhood. The subjects touched on in the representation are for the most part actually taught in the B.T.H. Girls’ Club, the senders of the car. Mrs. Robertshaw, who instructs the girls at the club in painting, undertook the designing and arranging the car.

“ VICTORY ” AND “ PEACE.”

Another striking tableau car was that of the Lodge Sparking Plug, entitled “ Victory and Peace.” The two central characters were taken by Miss Lancaster (“ Victory ”) and Miss Amy Shaw (“ Peace ”), and they were surrounded by representatives of various war activities, viz. : Red Cross nurse, Miss Davis ; soldier, Miss Dyer ; sailor, Miss Owen ; munition girl, Miss Waddours ; and land girl, Miss Ray.

A STRIKING DEVICE.

Much favourable comment was excited by a car driven by Mr. Davison, and containing a single figure, Miss Leeson, representing Peace, with a dove perched by her side. This car was entirely draped in white, and the effect by reason of its studied simplicity was very pleasing.

In the tradesmen’s car section the first prize went to two cars, “ Pre-War Work ” and “ War Work,” entered by Messrs. J. Parnell & Son. The first car contained specimens of the work of the firm before the war, viz., carved oak door linings and models of Roehampton House, now used as a depot for artificial limbs for disabled sailors and soldiers, and St. Jude’s Church, Golder’s Green. The firm’s war activities were set out by the second car, which showed that, among other things, the firm made l,000 bed rests, 4,700 bed-trays, 300 roll splints, 1,125 filing cabinets, 5,000 deck chairs, 250 oak carrying chairs, 4,000 washstands, 11,000 field telegraph poles, 550 cupboards, 2,000 folding tables, 5,000 tent poles, 360 card index cupboards, 230 lockers, 160 chests drawers, 120 splint presses, 130 oak wardrobes, 350 tables, 1,700 fire-screens, 213,000 splints, 4,000 pairs crutches, 1,150 bandage winders, 4,500 Liston’s splints, 890,000 tongue spatulas,
&c., &c.

An amusing entry was that of Messrs. J. Maynard and J. Wren, who represented a family in search of a home, Mr. Wren trundling a perambulator loaded with odds and ends of household requisites, and labelled, “ Rooms or shelter required,” and “ Wanted, a house—£50 reward ” ; while his partner, attired as the good housewife, bravely carried a “ baby ” through the mud and rain.

In the class for sets of characters on foot the first prize was secured by the girls of St. Marie’s School, who looked very charming in the dresses of village maidens, Marie Malpass making a very pretty queen ; second place was won by the Tysall family, of New Bilton, who represented a pierrot humming band.

Considerable ingenuity had been exercised by the equestrian and pedestrian competitors. Of the former the most popular was undoubtedly little Audrey Tallis, a pretty child of three summers, who dressed as a Peace bride, was mounted on a diminutive pony. Miss K. Keble, picturesquely attired in the crinolines so dear to the hearts of our grand-parents, won the first prize in the ladies’ fancy dress action, the second honours going to Miss F. Bond, who struck an original note with a costume made entirely of Rugby Advertisers printed on linen.

Several members of the Urban District Council—Messrs. W. Flint (chairman), L. Loverock (vice-chairman), T. Ringrose, J. J. McKinnell, and F. E. Hands—joined in the procession ; Lieut. C. J. Newman was with the discharged soldiers, and Mr. W. A. Stevenson with the N.U.R. Banner. Messrs. Hudson and Linnell, members of the ground committee, were too busy to join. Mr. R. H. Myers (chairman), Mr. A. E. Treen, and Mr. R. Fenley (librarian) represented the Library Committee.

The approximate order of the procession was as under :—

Band of the Rugby School Contingent, O.T.C.
Rugby School Contingent of the O.T.C. (under command of Major H. H. Hardy, M.B.E.).
Detachment of the 4/8 Midland Brigade Howitzer Battery.
Demobilised Sailors.
Rugby Steam Shed Band.
Rugby and District Discharged and Demobilized Sailors’, Soldiers’, and Airmen’s Association.
Vehicle kindly lent by Mr. T. Dodson for incapacitated men.
Voluntary Aid Detachments of British Red Cross Society (Warwickshire, Nos. 40 & 66).
Detachment of Land Girls.
Bilton Band.
Urban District Council.
Display by the Rugby and District Demobilised Sailors’; Soldiers’, and Airmen’s Association.
(1.) August 4, 1914 : “ The Call to Arms.”
(2.) A month later : “ Soldiers in the making.”
(3.) Six months later : “ Doing their bit.”
(4.) Boys in blue ; “ Lest we forget.”
(5.) The final : For services rendered.
Rugby Town Fire Brigade.
Engine and Escape.
Motor Lorry conveying B.T.H. Firemen’s children.
B.T.H. Fire Brigade and Engine.
B.T.H. Decorated Fire Engine.

HORSES.
Mr. R. Kitson (Cowboy).
Mr. D. S. Facer (Red Indian).
Mr. E. Martindale (Chestnut Mare).

Tableau Car. B.T.H. Estimating Department, “ Peace and the Victorious Allies.”
Rugby Salvation Army Band.

Rugby Division of the Boy Scouts’ Association (under command of Scoutmaster H. W. C. Knowles).
Troop 6th (Church), with Trek Cart.
Troop 2nd (Lower School), Cyclist Section.
Troop 3rd (St. George’s).
Troop 4th (Murray School), Collection of Waste Paper.
Troop 5th (B.T.H.), Signalling and Ambulance.
Troop 10th (St. Matthew’s).
Troop 15th (Willans), Hose Cart.

RUGBY GIRL GUIDES.
1st Rugby B.T.H. Co (Capt. B. F. M. Clipper).
2nd Rugby Company.
2ml Rugby Co. (Brownies in waggonette).
Tableau Car by the L. & N.-W. Railway Loco. Department : “ Lifeboat and Crew.”

PONIES.
Audrey Tallis,. aged three years (Peace Bride).
John Day (Red Indian).
Horace Burnett (Flags of the Allies).
Wilfred Cleaver (Tommy Atkins).
E. Martindale (Betty).
L. Martindale (Edna).

Banner of the Rugby Branch of the National Union of Railwaymen.
Decorated Cycles : Miss L. Barnett, Miss E. A. Boyce, Miss A. E. Fletcher.
Decorated Car with characters, by the Lodge Sparking Plug Co., Ltd

Ladies in character or fancy dress :
Mrs. Cox, Misses F. Swingler and K. Ingram (Red. White and Blue).
Miss M. N. Smith (Allied Victory).
Miss D. J. Ewington (Peace).
Miss D. Picksbant (England).
Miss E. Smith (Scotland).
Miss E. Fawdrey (Ireland).
Miss G. L. Colledge (Australia).
Misses E. Jennings and E. Houghton (India).
Misses N. Read, L. E. Ward, and E. Challis (Hindoos).
Misses M. Newman and W. Abbott (America).
Misses D. Franklin and I. Knight (Italy).
Miss R. Keeble (Japan).
Miss R. Head (Kaffir).
Miss I. Lobley (Red Cross Nurse).
Miss B. Cluett (Quaker Girl).
Miss F. Bond (“ Rugby Advertiser ”).
Miss K. Daniels (Nurse).
Miss J. Davison (Mazda Lamp).
Miss H. Rogers (B.D.V. Cigarettes).
Miss E. Whitehead (Ozo).
Miss P. Cluett (Bovril).
Miss B. Lobley (Gipsy).
Miss F. M. Mewis (Butterfly).
Miss D. E. Smith (Good Luck).

Tableau Cars by J. Parnell & Sons :
(1.) “ Pre-War Work.”
(2.) “ War Work, 1914 18.”

Rugby Town Band.

Gentlemen in character :
Mr. F. Lovell (Zulu).
Mr. A. Richardson (West African Chief).
Mr. A. L. Wetherington (Long Service).
Mr. G. Wakelin (Dutch Fisherman).

“ The Village Maids,” by St. Marie’s School.
Tableau Car by the B.T.H. Girls’ Club : “ Arts of Peace.”
Landau and Pair of Cobs, by Mr. G. Kilborn.
Tableau Car, by L. & N.-W. Railway Loco. Department : “ The Village Smithy.”
Decorated Motor Van, by Burton & Co.
Tableau Car, Miss L. Leeson : “ Peace.”

LADIES IN CHARACTER OR FANCY DRESS.
Miss C. Townsend (Flower Girl).
Miss H. Nown (Cornflower).
Miss C. Challis (Fairy Bluebell).
Miss E. Challis (Fairy Butterfly).
Miss F. Colledge (Fairy Elf).
Misses G. Wright and D. Green (Fairies).
Miss C. Billingham (Flower Girl).
Miss R. Ward (Fairy Butterfly).
Miss B. Seymour (Red, White and Blue).
Misses E. Satchell and R. Smith (Pierrots).
Miss H. Whyman (Old English Lady).
Miss M. Colledge (Old Man).
Miss G. Dale (Old Lady).
Miss R. Satchell (Frenchman).
Misses M. Gudgeon and H. Barker (Ballet Dancers).
Miss K. Keeble (Cricketer).
Miss E. White (Cricketer).
Miss I. Aland (Doll).
Miss C. Mansfield (Nut).

Horse and Four-wheeled Bread Van, by Mr. F. M. Bates.

GENTLEMEN IN CHARACTER & FANCY DRESS.
Messrs. P. R. Wills, A. G. Shilvock, and C. T. Sylvester (Pierrots).
Mr. H. H. Bandy (French Lady).
Messrs. A. Dale and H. Wakelin (Niggers).
Mr. W. F. Webb (House Hunting).
Mr. F. Boult (Black Sam and his Aunt).
Mr. P. Shaw.
Mr. H. Aland (Policeman).
Mr. F. Horley (Soldier).
Mr. J. Floyer (Bing Boy).
Mr. W. Few (Flapper).
Mr. L. Hales (Golliwog).
Mr. C. Cooke (Nigger).
Mr. C. A. Head (Charlie Chaplin).

The Humming Band, by the Tysall Family.

Punctually at two o’clock the procession, led by the Chief Marshal, Mr. C. W. Walton, commenced the parade of the town. Despite the heavy rain, the whole route of the procession was lined with cheering spectators. The route followed by the procession was as under :—
Recreation Ground, Whitehall Road, Clifton Road,Cambridge Street, Craven Road, Manor Road, King Edward Road Extension, Albert Street, Regent Street, Market Place, Chapel Street, West Street, Pennington Street, Round Street, Bridget Street, Victoria Street, Lawford Road, Warwick Street, Sheep Street, Church Street, Clifton Road, Moultrie Road, Hillmorton Road, Recreation Ground.

THE PRIZES PRESENTED.

After the procession had dispersed, the prizes were presented by Mr. W. Flint (chairman of the Urban District Council) to the successful competitors . . . .

DINNER TO THE BEREAVED.

Amid the general joy-making a little gathering took place, which although of an unostentatious character, held perhaps the most human interest of the day. This was the dinner to the widows, orphans, and dependants of the fallen, which took place at noon at the Co-operative Hall. The affair seemed appropriately something apart from the ordinary proceedings of the programme; and it was felt that, could those departed heroes have been consulted, they would have desired nothing better than this practical expression of gratitude to those of their kindred remaining. About 100 women and children participated in a thoroughly enjoyable meal. The hall was tastefully adorned with bunting, and pleasing selections were discoursed during the dinner by Mrs. Bradby’s orchestra. Canon A. A. David, D.D. (headmaster of Rugby School), offered grace. The repast consisted of cold roast beef, mutton, boiled ham, salad, apple tart and custard, trifle, bakewell pudding, assorted cakes and pastries, buns, tea and coffee. The tables were waited upon by a party of ladies, including Mrs. A. A. David, Mrs. Hardy, Miss Flint, Mrs. Protheroe, Mrs. & Miss Loverock, Mrs. H. Lupton-Reddish, Mrs. Brooke, the Misses Dean, Mrs. Shorto, Miss Ferry, Mrs. Durrant, Mrs. Walton, Mrs. E. Walton, Mrs. Darby, Mrs. Facker, Mrs. Fazakerley, Miss Hudson, Miss Foxon, and Mrs. Wheatley. The guests were cordially welcomed upon entering the hall by Mr. Flint and the other members of the Committee. Lt. C Newman and Mr. R. C. Grace were present representing the Discharged Soldiers’ Association.

CELEBRATIONS AT THE HOSPITAL.
MESSAGE FROM THE KING.

The patients at the Hospital of St. Cross were afforded pleasant reminders in various directions of the general rejoicings of Peace Day—the disabled service men particularly being remembered.

The following message was received from the King :—
“ To-day we are celebrating a victorious Peace, and amidst the national rejoicings my thoughts and those of the Queen, go out to the men who in the gallant part they have taken to secure that victory, have suffered, and are yet suffering, from the cruel hand of war. To these, the sick and wounded who cannot take active part in the festival of victory, I send our greetings, and bid them good cheer, assuring them that the wounds and scars so honourable to themselves, inspire in the hearts of their fellow-countrymen the warmest feelings of gratitude and respect.”

A telegram was also received as follows from the Minister of Pensions :—
“ Communicate following to pensions patients : I hope the disabled ex-soldiers will find that the arrangements authorised by me—viz., free travelling facilities, with an extra 10s. for maintenance, will enable them to join in the Peace celebrations, and that those in-patients unable to travel will find that the provision made for them will enable them to obtain in the hospitals some echo of the rejoicings. I wish you a happy participation in the celebrations of Peace, which you have done so much to secure, and a speedy recovery from your present sufferings.”

As many of the Service men as possible were allowed to go home in accordance with the arrangements mentioned above. The bed-patients at the hospital were each allowed a friend to tea, and during the meal selections were played by the Salvation Army Band, their discourses including the Allied National Anthems. A number of patients were taken out in brakes to view the afternoon’s procession, and they thoroughly enjoyed the proceedings. Special fare was provided for dinner, the men being served with roast lamb, green peas and new potatoes, and the women were provided with delicacies of their own selection.

AT THE INSTITUTION.

The inmates of the Institution were not neglected amid the general rejoicings. On Saturday special fare was provided at all the meals, and beer was served with the dinner. Mr. J. H. Walker kindly sent tobacco for the men, and sweets were distributed amongst the women. In the afternoon the inmates were taken for a drive into the country.

MONDAY NIGHT’S RESUMED PROGRAMME.
MAGNIFICENT DISPLAY OF FIREWORKS.

Fortunately the clouds which gathered ominously toward the evening of Monday did not bring the rain that was at one time feared, and the unfinished portion of the programme was resumed at the Recreation Ground amid much enthusiasm. There was a splendid attendance, the crowds numbering several thousands, and it was soon evident that enforced postponement of the carnival and firework display had in no way detracted from the public interest in the affair.

The fancy dress carnival was a remarkably pretty ceremony, and some striking originality was displayed in the choice of the dresses. The participants assembled at an enclosure in the centre of the field, and prizes were awarded for the best dresses. A lady, attired in a pretty white costume with wings and a trumpet, was an easy favourite for the premier award in her class as a representative of Peace, but the judges had considerable difficulty in deciding the other prizes. They eventually agreed that all the ladies’ costumes depicting the Allies were of such a high standard as to merit recognition, and consequently awarded two special prizes. The judging was performed by Mrs. A. K. Morgan, Mr. J. Sharples, Mr. Loverock, and Mr. R. Hosking.

The prizes were presented later in the evening by Mrs. A. K. Morgan.

During the first part of the evening the concert parties and the irrepressible Mr. Sutton, who had entertained the crowds on Saturday, again appeared, and had large and appreciative audiences. The carnival was followed by dancing in various parts of the ground to the accompaniment of the Rugby Town, Bilton, and Steam shed Bands until dusk, when the display of fireworks took place.

RUGBY’S ADMIRAL.

By 9.30, when the first rocket was discharged, the crowd had grown enormously, and must have numbered quite 10,000 persons, the younger generation being largely in evidence. We are all children at heart, however, especially where fireworks are concerned, and the signal for the display to begin was greeted with a volume of enthusiastic cheering, which broke out again and again as the various beautiful devices were displayed, the culminating point being reached when the portrait of Rugby’s most distinguished son, Admiral Sir David Beatty, was shown, with the words, “One of the best and from Rugby,” amid a salvo of rockets and shells. The devices included golden and silver waterfalls, a silver tree, a motto “ Lest we forget,” coloured Roman trees, a large radium shower of six spokes and an eight-spoke golden shower, a travelling aeroplane, and several maypoles. In addition, numbers of beautiful rockets, releasing miniature gold and silver parachutes and showers of many-coloured tongues of flame, were discharged and three large illuminated balloons were released. The grounds were illuminated at intervals with coloured fire, and the display, which lasted an hour and was one of the best ever seen locally, terminated with a large centre piece portrait of the King, with the motto, “ Long may he reign.”

The Rugby detachment of the St. John’s Ambulance Brigade was on duty on Saturday and Monday, and a number of minor accidents, &c., were efficiently dealt with.

THE ORDERLY CROWDS.

An entire absence of any Police Court cases arising out of the peace-making is a striking tribute to the general behaviour of the crowds throughout Saturday.

Report from the Rugby Advertiser 25th July 1919

25th Jul 1919. Death of Mr R P Powell

DUNCHURCH.
DEATH OF MR. R. P. POWELL.—Dr. Powell has received a cable announcing the death on July 19th, of his eldest son, Mr. Richard Bruce Powell, in Australia, from pneumonia following on influenza. Mr. Powell had only recently returned to Australia for demobilisation, having served in the Australian Forces since the commencement of the war. He went through the hardships of the Gallipoli expedition, was wounded, and for many months was a prisoner of war, and the privations he suffered doubtless undermined his constitution. His brother, Mr. John Powell, is on his way to Australia to be demobilised. Both brothers were farming in the Commonwealth, and when war broke out, only a few months after their arrival, promptly enlisted. The sympathy of the whole parish goes out to Dr. and Mrs. Powell in their sad loss.

DR AND MRS. POWELL gave, on Monday evening last, at the Village Hall, a most delightful entertainment to the returned soldiers and their wives. Tea and refreshments were served, and Mrs. Nelson Harness, Mrs. Martin, Miss Barnwell, Dr Powell, and Mrs. Charles Powell, sang capital songs. A number of the school girls, under the direction of Miss Byers and her staff, gave some charming tableaux, representing the various nations comprising the Allies, and concluding with a particularly beautiful picture of Peace. Mrs. Haselwood and Mrs. Martin gave appropriate music white the tableaux were being shown. All through the war Mrs. Powell has done much for the soldiers’ wives and children. From time to time they have met at her house, and this concluding gathering, when happily most of the husbands were able to be present, was a fitting and very much appreciated climax to the series.

BRETFORD.

MONS STAR.—Mr. J. Castle, who went out to France on September 11th, 1914, has received the Mons Star. He was wounded near Armentieres. He is still feeling the effects of the bad wound he received in the leg.

RECOGNITION OF SOLDIERS.—A meeting was held in the Church Room, on Friday evening. Mr. J. E. Wilkins was elected chairman. Mr. Alcock said it would be nice for each soldier to receive some little memento from the villagers to show their appreciation. It was unanimously resolved to present each soldier and sailor with a framed photograph of himself. A subscription list was started.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR.

THE PARISH CHURCHYARD MEMORIAL
ANOTHER PROTEST.
SIR,—I should like to express my deep regret, both as a member of the Church of England and also an inhabitant of Rugby, at the proposed memorial to be placed in the Parish Churchyard to the memory of our fallen soldiers and sailors. We worship not a dead Christ of the Cross, but a living Christ. By all means let us have a memorial to those brave men who have given their lives for their King and Country, but do not let it be one in direct opposition to the teaching of the Bible and the Book of Common Prayer.—Yours etc., M. E. HARDING.
28 Vicarage Road, Rugby.

THE PROPOSED WAR MEMORIAL.
SIR.—The questions asked by Mr. Halliwell in his letter to Mr. Morson that also appeared in your last issue respecting the proposed Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Institute as part of a war memorial, are extremely appropriate, and it is to be hoped they will receive an answer from the authorities, as it is most important that the scheme should be made quite clear on the points raised, especially the first. At the time of the armistice rejoicings I ventured to suggest through your columns the formation of a fund to be called “ The Common Good ” (possibly a better name could be found), and I now ask to be allowed to point out how that proposal will, I think, pass most of Mr. Halliwell’s test questions. It may be remembered that the idea was to entrust the sum raised to the Public Trustee for investment, the income to be paid to the Chairman of the Urban District Council to be expended as desired by the Council on any object that cannot be charged upon rates. Mr. Halliwell’s first question would be answered by the fact that the fund would exist as long as the nation itself, and the second that the disposal of the income would continue in the hands of the elected representatives of the town, who could (5) subscribe for membership of clubs or other institutions, or (6) assist the wives and families of soldiers or sailors who either have “ done their bit”— a big “ bit ” many of them—or (7) sacrificed their lives in the nation’s cause. The Council could also make some of the income “ available to the women who, equally with the men, have served their country in nursing and other work in the theatres of war.”
May I point out that so far as the literary side of the contemplated Institute is concerned it could be supplied by the Public Library and its possible branches ?—Yours, etc.
JAS. WM. KENNING.
37 Lower Hillmorton Road, Rugby.

THE CRUCIFIX AS A WAR MEMORIAL.
SIR,—I see from a report in your current issue that St. Marie’s Roman Catholic congregation propose to erect a crucifix as their memorial inside the church, thus showing more wisdom than my fellow-Churchmen at St. Andrew’s Parish Church, who, according to an unreported meeting mentioned briefly in your paper, have asked their committee to submit designs, etc., to another meeting. Are they still prepared to offend Christian taste and not respect the views of others in this matter ! Of course, they are aware it is illegal—a breaking of the Second Commandment—an incentive to Superstition and Idolatry, described by their own Church as a “ lying image.” It must have the sanction of the top of the diocese, as only last month the Bishop of Liverpool vetoed the one about to be erected in St. Nicholas’ Parish Church, Liverpool.
Are they aware also that a Faculty has to be obtained, as one erected recently at Guildford will not be allowed to remain unless one is granted. Surely if these Church people must have a Pagan emblem in the shape of a cross or crucifix they need not emphasise the words of Scripture by “ putting an effigy of the Saviour upon it,” who bore the curse of those words : “ Cursed is everyone who hangeth on a tree.” God’s Word says of images, “ They that make them are like unto them and so is everyone that putteth his trust in them.”—Yours, etc.,
A CHURCHMAN.
Rugby, July 21st, 1919.

IN MEMORIAM.

BROWN.— In ever-loving memory of Corpl. Walter Joseph Brown, 1/4th Yorkshire Regt. School Street, Hillmorton, missing May 27th, 1918, now reported killed in France.
One year’s suspense we suffered,
No words from us can tell,
Of that sad day he went away,
And said his last farewell.
He fell at the post of duty,
His grave we know not where ;
But his ever-loving memory,
Shall be our daily prayer.
From FATHER, BROTHERS, SISTERS and ANNIE.

HART-DAVIES.—In memory of Lieut. I. B. Hart-Davies, killed in a flying accident, July 27th, 1917. Always remembered by his dear friend A. D. MILLER.

HART-DAVIES.—In memory of Lieut. Ivan Beauclerk Hart-Davies, RFC., killed in aeroplane mishap at Northolt, Middlesex, July 27th, 1917.—From Old Boys of 1st Rugby Troop B.P. Boy Scouts at home and abroad.

HEMMING.— In ever-loving memory of my dear husband Sergt. Charles Henry Hemming, who fell in action somewhere in France on July 24th, 1918.
“ He nobly did his duty and like a hero fell.”
Fondly remembered by his loving WIFE and CHILDREN.

SMITH.—In ever-loving memory of Pte. T. W. E. Smith, Royal Fusiliers, who was killed m action on July 21st, 1916.

SPENCER.—In loving memory of Sig. J. B. Spencer, jun., killed near Messines, July 22nd, 1917.
“ A noble son, true and kind,
A beautiful memory left behind.”
From FATHER, MOTHER and BROTHERS.

WAREING.—In loving memory of my dear son, Pte. Stanley Wareing, only son of Mr. and Mrs. James Wareing, Lilbourne Farm, killed in France July 23rd, 1916.
We often sit and think of you
And tenderly breathe your name ;
Nothing left of you to look at
But your photo in a frame.

 

NOTE: The report of Rugby’s Peace Celebrations published in this issue of the Rugby Advertiser will appear in a seperate post.

18th Jul 1919. Work of the Rugby War Pensions Committee

WORK OF THE RUGBY WAR PENSIONS COMMITTEE.
LOOKING AFTER THE DISABLED.

The Disablement Sub-Committee of the Rugby War Pensions Local Committee have presented the following report of their work for the quarter ending June 30th :—The Sub-Committee has been strengthened by the addition of Mrs. Nickalls, and Mr Yates, who has always been a member of the committee, has been appointed vice-chairman. Five meetings of the sub-committee have been held during the quarter. 134 cases have been considered at the meetings. 159 men have been sent before the Medical Referee. Seven applicants have been interviewed and recommended for grants from the King’s Fund. 56 men are in receipt of treatment allowances. 11 men have had arrangements made for dental treatment. 47 appeals have been sent up for pensions claims since demobilisation and for increased pensions. 364 names have been added to the register since March 31st, 1919. Arrangements have been made for discharged men to attend at the Hospital of St. Cross for massage, dressings and others treatment since the Red Cross Hospitals were closed. Certain cases have occurred in which men have been receiving both treatment allowances and out-of-work donation. Arrangements have been made for closer working in conjunction with the local Employment Exchange to obviate such cases in the future. A number of meetings have been held at the Employment Exchange at which discharged men in receipt of out-of-work donation have appeared before the panels composed of members of the local Advisory Committee and the War Pensions Committee. A number of men have been found employment, but there are still some twenty cases in the district which present great difficulty. It will be apparent that the work in respect of disabled and discharged men has increased greatly during the last few months. It is hoped, however, that the peak may now have been reached, and that in future we may hope for a decrease.

The following is the report of the Rugby Sub-Committee for the quarter ended June 30th, 1919 :—Four hundred and two cases have been added to the register during the three months ending 30th June. During the quarter seven meetings have been held, at which 195 cases have been considered and decided. On April 1st the following villages were transferred from the Southam Sub-Committee to the Rugby Sub-Committee :—Birdingbury, Leamington Hastings and Kytes Hardwick, Willoughby, Broadwell, Grandborough and Woolscott, Wolfhampcote and Calcutt. There are now 48 villages under this sub-committee. Mr. Kettle has been appointed representative for Clifton and Newton, in place of Miss Carruthers, who is leaving the district, and the Rev. E Blake has been appointed for Brinklow in place of the Rev. G. A. Dawson, who has resigned. Mr. Blake has also taken over Stretton-under-Fosse as well. Owing to the appointment of a County Finance Officer, the appointment of a treasurer for the Rugby Sub-committee has been cancelled. The appointment and payment of a local accountant to assist Mr. Race in bringing the accounts up to date has been approved by the local committee. Our Vice-Chairman, Mr. H. Yates, has been made vice-chairman of the Disablement Sub-Committee as well. With the approval of the Rugby Welfare League Miss Abbott has been appointed full-time secretary to the Rugby Sub-Committee, subject to the sanction of the Ministry.

AFTER THE WORLD-WAR.
THE RAVAGES OF FAMINE.
STIRRING APPEAL AT RUGBY.

A stirring appeal for practical sympathy on behalf of the victims of famine and disease in all parts of the world, was made by Miss Elkin, of the Fight the Famine Committee, to a large open gathering held in connection with the Rugby Brotherhood, at the Co-operative Hall, on Sunday afternoon last.

In the course of her remarks, Miss Elkin quoted figures in support of her contention that tuberculosis and typhus had increased in some of the countries subject to their ravages by 300 per cent, since the year, and declared that the conditions in Armenia especially were almost unbelievable. Dr. Nansen had told them that in Petrograd there were no children living under two years of age, and in some of the hospitals of Vienna numbers of children of twelve months’ old and upwards were of practically the same weight as when they were born. The speaker observed that although we could fix boundaries for the various nationalities by the peace treaty, we could not cope with the famine and pestilence by the same system.

The collections were given to the Save the Children Fund. This fund has received the active sanction of the Government, and all subscriptions to it are doubled from the National Exchequer.

Mr. J. Bedford, the President of the Rugby Brotherhood, occupied the chair, and Miss Kate Morgan delightfully rendered two solos. The orchestral selections, under the direction of Mr. J. Turner, were greatly appreciated.

WAR MEMORIAL FOR RUGBY LOWER SCHOOL.
NEW ORGAN CASE.

The Parents’ Association of Rugby Lower School at a meeting held at the School on Friday evening last, divided that the war memorial to old scholars who have made the supreme sacrifice, should take the form of an oak case for the protection of the organ.

Mr. C. Cockerill presided, and the Hon. Secretary (Mr. W. J. Ashby) give a statement of accounts for the war memorial fund. Subscriptions, together with bank interest, had realised £159 10s. £12 10s. 9d. had been expended, leaving a balance to date of £146 19s. 3d.

The Chairman stated that the original proposition of a clock had not met with the approval of the governors, but the present scheme now suggested would be satisfactory to everybody. He presented a design of the work, prepared by Messrs. Nicholson and Co., of Worcester, and this was accepted, with certain modifications, on the proposition of Mr. A. R. Everest, seconded by Mr. W. Eadon.

CATHOLIC WAR MEMORIAL.—A meeting of the congregation of St. Marie’s Church was held at the Boys’ Schoolroom, Rugby, on Sunday to discuss the erection of a memorial for the local men of the Roman Catholic persuasion who had fallen in the war. The Rev. Father Jarvis presided. Several proposals were submitted, including that of a monument outside the Churchyard representing the dead Christ on the lap of His Blessed Mother at the foot of the Cross. It was ultimately decided, however, to erect an actual sized Crucifix in the Hibbert Chapel of the Church, with a tablet opposite bearing the names of those who had made the extreme sacrifice. A sum of £245 is already assured for the fund, and this amount is likely to be further increased, as the collectors have not yet finished their rounds. The meeting considered that the funds already in hand warranted early undertaking of the work, and a resolution was passed asking the committee to take immediate steps in this direction. Expressions of thanks were accorded the chairman, committee, and the collectors for their efforts.

RUGBY WAR MEMORIAL.
THE PROPOSED SOLDIERS’ CLUB.
A TOWNSMAN’S QUERIES.

To the Editor of the Rugby Advertiser.
SIR,—I enclose a copy of a letter I have sent to Mr. Morson regarding the proposed War Memorial, and trust you will consider the question of sufficient importance to be worthy of the publicity of your columns.— Yours, etc.,
R. F. HALLIWELL.
67 Clifton Road, Rugby.

[Copy.]
Arthur Morson, Esq., M.B.E., Secretary Rugby and District War Memorial Committee, Benn Buildings, Rugby.

DEAR SIR,— I am in receipt of a circular letter from your committee inviting subscriptions and enclosing a copy of the appeal issued in the local press, which states that, after providing a monument, the bulk of the money gathered will be used to erect a club or institute for the demobilised soldiers, sailors, and airmen, belonging to Rugby and District. The desirability of a suitable memorial to those who have served their country in the great war is beyond question, and the publication of sufficient details to demonstrate the suitability of the proposed scheme would doubtless be much appreciated by those, who like myself, wish to pay their modest tribute, and would assist in obtaining the unanimity so desirable if the memorial is to adequately represent the gratitude and admiration of the community. Therefore, if you could give some information on the following points it would probably be welcomed by a wide circle. For convenience the points in question may be tabulated thus :—

(1) What is to become of the Institute as the number of members decreases as a result of change of domicile, death, etc. ?

(2) To whom will the management of the Institute be entrusted ? If it is not to be entirely in the hands of the members, is there not a risk of social, political, or religious patronage objectionable to the members ?

(3) Will there be any restrictions on the recreations open to members, or on the class of refreshment, it any, obtainable ?

(4) Is it intended to offer any restraint, moral otherwise, to the political and religious freedom of the members ?

(5) Will any of the facilities offered by the proposed Institute be more than can be obtained at a nominal subscription by membership of clubs and institutions at present existing in the town ?

(6) In what manner will the wives and families of members be benefited by the proposed Institution ?

(7) How will the proposed Institute benefit the wives and families of those who have sacrificed their lives in the national cause ?

(8) To what extent will privileges of membership be available to the women who, equally with the men, have served their country in nursing and other work in the theatres of war ?

The above are a few points on which it seems to me desirable to have information ; there are probably many others of equal or greater importance, and in order that the matter may receive the publicity it deserves. I am sending copies of this letter to the local press in the hope that you will reply by that means and thus lead to a full discussion which may result in the adoption of a generally accepted and representative memorial worthy of the town.—Yours faithfully,
R.F. HALLIWELL
67 Clifton Road, Rugby.

TO THE LADIES OF RUGBY.
“ OUR OWN WARSHIP.”
SILK FLAG FOR H.M.S. RUGBY.

We have received the following letter, which we heartily commend to our readers. The fact that other towns have readily and quickly responded to a similar appeal should spur the inhabitants of Rugby on to see to it that they do not lag behind their neighbours in appreciation of the great work accomplished by the navy during the terrible years that are now past and gone. The Captain and crew of H.M.S. Rugby would naturally appreciate the honour of their flag having intimate association with their name-town, and it is to be hoped that there will be a hearty response to Mr. Hands’ appeal.

To the Editor Rugby Advertiser.

SIR,—About four months ago a naval officer informed me that there was in the navy list a ship named H.M.S. Rugby, and that it was the usual thing for the ladies of the town, or city, after which the ship was named, to present that ship with a silk flag.

At last night’s Council meeting this question was raised, and it was referred to me to deal with.

I, therefore, make an appeal to the ladies of Rugby to subscribe the amount required, viz., about £20. Any sum, however small, will be received and acknowledged by me.—Yours, etc.,

F. E HANDS,
34 Sheep Street, Rugby.

LETTER FROM THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

At the meeting of the Urban District Council on Tuesday, the Clerk (Mr. A. Morson, M.B.E.) read a letter from Lieut. Noel Pennington, officer commanding H.M.S. Rugby, thanking the Council for the copy of the town arms and the implied permission to use them. He added that the ship’s company would be delighted for the Council to reproduce the photograph of the ship as a picture postcard.

With regard to the presentation of a flag by the ladies of the town, Mr. Hands, who originally made the suggestion, was asked if he had any further information on the subject. He replied in the negative, but added that he would be pleased to forward the idea if it was the wish of the Council.

Mr. Loverock said he had made inquiries as to the cost of the flag, and found it would work out at £20.

Mr. Hands : Is that a full-sized one ?

Mr. Loverock : Yes; four yards.

Mr. Hands : That is a small flag.

The matter was left to Mr. Hands to make the necessary arrangements.

IN MEMORIAM.

BROWN.—In loving memory of my dear husband, JOHN WILLIAM BROWN, 10th Royal Warwicks, who died at Dulmen, Germany, on July 13, 1918.
“ There is a link Death cannot sever,
Love and remembrance last for ever.”
—From his loving Wife.

DAVENPORT.—In ever-loving memory of our dear son and brother, Gunner L. E. DAVENPORT, of Harborough Magna, killed in action July 18, 1916.
“ You are always in our hearts, dear son,
Tis sweet to breathe your name ;
In life we loved you dearly,
In death we do the same.”
—From his ever-loving Mother and Father and Sisters.

DICKEN.—In ever-loving memory of Lance-Corpl. SIDNEY HAROLD DICKEN, who died of wounds in France on July 20, 1916, aged 22.—“ Peace, perfect peace.”—From his loving Mother, Father, Sisters and Brothers.

DICKEN.—In ever-loving memory of our dear brother, Lance-Corpl. SIDNEY H. DICKEN, 14th Gloucester Regiment (Bantams), who died of wounds in France on July 20, 1916.
“ Father, in Try tender keeping,
Leave we there our dear one sleeping.”
—Never forgotten by his loving brother and sister, Will and Amy.”

HIPWELL.—In ever-loving memory of our dear son, Pte. John Hipwell, Lilbourne, who died of wounds received in action in France, on July 23rd, 1916. Interred in Heilly Station Cemetery, Mericourt, south-west of Albert.
“ Days of sadness still come o’er us,
Tears in silence often flow,
Thinking of the day we lost you,
Just three years ago.
Too far away thy grave to see,
But not too far to think of thee.”
Never forgotten by his FATHER, MOTHER, SISTER and BROTHERS.

LENTON.—In loving memory of our dear brother, Pte. W. H. Lenton, who died of wounds in France on July 19, 1916.—Never forgotten by Erne, Fred and Ethel, 64 Wood Street.

LENTON.—In proud and loving memory of our dear brother WILL, who was killed France on July 19, 1916.—Still sadly missed by Tom, Ma and Family.

PAYNE.—In loving memory of Lance-Corpl. E. PAYNE, who was killed in action on July 15, 1916.
“ Sleep on, dear husband, and take your rest,
We miss you most who lover you best.
When days seem long and friends are few,
Dear husband, how I miss you.
God called you home, it was his will,
But in our hearts we love you still.”
—Gone but not forgotten by his Wife & Children.

PAYNE.—In ever-loving memory of my dear son, Lance-Corpl. ERNEST PAYNE, killed in action at Verdun on July 15, 1916.
“ We often pause to think, dear son,
And wonder how you died,
With no one near who loved you dear,
Before you closed your eyes.
You nobly did your duty,
And like a hero fell ;
Could we have held your drooping head,
Or heard your last farewell.”
—Sadly missed from. From his ever-loving Father, Sisters and Brothers.

THOMPSON.—In loving memory of Pte. A. H. THOMPSON, who died of wounds in France on July 17, 1917.—Not forgotten by his Brothers and Sisters.

WHITBREAD.—In loving memory of BASIL, 2nd-Lieut., R.W.R., killed in action in France on July 22, 1916, in his 20th year, only son of Mr and Mrs. Whitbread, Arnold Cottage, Church Walk.

11th Jul 1919. Rugby Peace Celebrations, Programme Considerably Curtailed.

RUGBY PEACE CELEBRATIONS.
PROGRAMME CONSIDERABLY CURTAILED.
NO OFFICIAL DECORATIONS OR ILLUMINATIONS.
URBAN COUNCILS DECISION.

A special meeting of Rugby Urban District Council to consider the revised proposals of the Local Peace Celebration Committee necessitated by the Government’s decision to confine the organised rejoicings to one day, and the receipt of a letter from the Local Government Board with reference to the defraying of the expenses, was held at the Benn Buildings on Tuesday evening, when there were present : Messrs. W. Flint (chairman), L. Loverock (vice-chairmen), T. A. Wise, W. H. Linnell, R. S. Hudson, R. B. Friend, T. Ringrose, F. E. Hands, W. Whiteley, and H. Yates. Mr. C. C. Wharton, hon. secretary to the committee, also attended.

The Clerk (Mr. A. Morson) read an order from the Local Government Board sanctioning reasonable expenditure by local authorities in connection with the celebrations in so far as these expenses are charged in accounts subject to audit by a district auditor. The order was accompanied by a covering letter to the effect that “ in many localities the funds for the public celebrations will be obtained by means of voluntary subscriptions, and the issue of the order is not intended in any way to discourage subscriptions of this character or other private beneficence. The Board consider that the power conferred by the order should be used where necessary to supplement funds otherwise contributed for public local celebrations rather than to supersede such funds. The Board cannot undertake to advise individual authorities or persons as to whether any particular kind of expenditure might be incurred, or as to the amount which might properly be expended by any particular authority. The effect of the sanction will be that expenses duly incurred under the terms of the order will not be liable to disallowance by the district auditor, but if questions should be raised hereafter as to whether any expenditure is, or is not, covered by the order the questions will, in the first instance, be for the auditor to consider.”

Mr. Morson also read a letter from the Rugby Branch of the United Pattenmakers’ Society, who had been invited to take part in the Peace celebration procession, enclosing the following resolution :—“ That we protest against the Peace celebration being held at a time when this nation is still at war with other nations, feeling convinced that no demonstration can have the sincere rejoicings which should be inseparable from such an occasion, whilst our Armies are fighting in Russia and elsewhere.”

Mr. Loverock said the letter from the Local Government Board placed the Council in an awkward position, because no money had been raised by subscription locally, and the letter stated that money raised by the rates should supplement such public subscriptions. He asked if any expenditure incurred by the Council would be objected to by the auditor unless they raised some of the money by subscription.

The Chairman said he thought the arrangements as regarded the fireworks and bands would have to stand.

Mr. Linnell criticised the action of the Local Government Board in sending such a letter. In a previous letter the Board stated that they would agree to reasonable expenditure being thrown on the rates, and in face of that they could not now expect the Council to alter their arrangements to the extent of collecting subscriptions. The only thing they could do was to ask the committee to limit their expenditure as far as possible. That the committee was quite prepared to do.—Mr. Loverock agreed that the Council were committed to the expenditure as to fireworks and bands, and that, of course, would have to go through ; but with regard to the procession, he asked if it was likely that the expenditure on this would be disallowed ?

The Chairman : The letter has upset everything. All arrangements have been knocked on one side, and new proposals will have to be made. The committee had made alterations with a view to cutting down the expenses, and their new scheme will be presented this evening.

Mr. Yates inquired whether the Vice-Chairman’s point was that if the whole of the expenses were thrown on the rates the Local Government Board would disallow it. He thought before the Council committed themselves to heavy expenditure they ought to be sure that the unanimous feeling in the town was in favour of continuing with the preparations for the celebrations.—The Chairman said arrangements were made for launching an appeal for public subscriptions, but owing to the number of appeals which had been issued of late it was felt desirous to hold this back for a while. The appeal, however, would be sent out next week.

The Clerk said the letter received from the Local Government Board some time ago, promising that reasonable expenditure should be borne by the rates gave no intimation that such approval of reasonable expenditure was subject to voluntary contributions.

A report of a meeting of the committee held the previous evening to revise the programme was read to the following effect :—

PROGRAMME.—It was decided : (1) That all celebrations be confined to the one day, Saturday. July 19th, except the dinner to old people and the teas for the children. (2) That an appeal for public subscriptions be made for the purpose of providing a dinner for the widows and orphans of fallen soldiers, to be held on the 19th inst., and if funds are available a dinner for old people and a tea for the children be held at a subsequent date. (3) That in view of the shortness of time and the need for economy, no decorations or illuminations be carried out by the committee, but that the inhabitants of the town be asked to do as much as possible in decorating the frontages of their premises and dwellings. (4) That in view of the altered conditions, the following items of the original programme be cancelled :—(a) All services for adults and for children, (b) Torchlight procession. (c) The printing of souvenir programmes, this latter in view of the impossibility of producing a suitable programme is the time available.

EXPENDITURE.—An regards the estimated expenditure, this will be definitely reduced by the sum of £125, due to the cancellation of all decorations and illuminations. As there will only be one day’s celebrations, it is hoped that the estimate for bands may be reduced from £150 to £110. For the same reason it is hoped that the orders for torches (£20) will be able to be cancelled.

PARTICIPATION OF TROOPS.—As regards troops taking part in the celebrations, Major Seabroke was asked to give his recommendations on this matter, and states that he does not consider it practicable for any local unit to take part, either in a separate triumphal march or as part of the main procession, owing to their not bring organised or properly equipped, the committee therefore do not think it advisable under the circumstances to make any application for troops. I therefore return correspondence from the War Office and Mr. Field. It may be possible to get the School O.T.C. to take part, but this can be arranged independently.

PROGRAMME & TIME TABLE
(Approximate).

MORNING.
6 or 8 a.m. : Firing of volley from Parish Church.
6.15 or 8.15 a.m. : Ringing of all church bells.
9 a.m. : Bands to play at certain specified places.
10 a.m. : Bands march to School Close.
10.30 a.m. : Unfurling of flag in School Close.
11 a.m. to 12 noon : Playing of massed bands in School Close and singing of massed choirs in School Close.
10 30 a.m. to 12 noon : Entertainments for children in Recreation Ground.

PROCESSION.
1 p.m. : Assembly of procession at Recreation Ground.
1.15 p.m. : Judging of competitors at Recreation Ground.
2 p.m. : Procession starts.
4 p.m. : Procession returns.
4.15 p.m. : Presentation of prizes.

IN RECREATION GROUND (FOR ADULTS).
2 p.m. to 7 p.m. : Entertainments for adults, concert, bands and cinema.
6 p.m. : Assembly for fancy dress carnival.
6.30 p.m. : Grand march of competitors.
7 p.m. to 8.15 p.m. : Dancing carnival.
8.15 p.m. : Interval and presentation of prizes.
8.30 p.m. to 9.45 p.m. : Dancing.
10 p.m. : Fireworks.

IN CALDECOTT’S PIECE (IF AVAILABLE), FOR CHILDREN.
3 p.m. : March-past (boys salute flag), form hollow square, and sing “ Land of Hope and Glory ” and “ National Anthem.”
3.30 to 4.30 p.m. : Entertainments, sports, and daylight fireworks.

Mr. Love rock expressed the opinion that it was an excellent programme for one day, and the committee seemed to be fairly unanimous, except as regarded the tea for the children and the dinner for the old people.

Mr. Linnell said he thought it was a good idea to have the children’s entertainment in another field, provided it could be earned out. He thought, however, they would find that, as a general rule, the public would go where the children were.—Mr. Hands : They must be kept out.—Mr. Linnell : You won’t keep them out.—The Clerk said at the Coronation festivities they had exactly the same proposal to provide a separate entertainment for children, but in the end they had to admit the adults.—Mr. Wharton : It may be different if we can get Caldecott’s Piece.—Mr. Hands : Yes ; there are only two entrances, and we can have them well guarded.—Mr Whiteley inquired if the replies received indicated that the procession would be a success ?—Mr. Wharton : Yes ; this was gone into last night, and the replies show that it will be a great success.

Mr. Loverock pointed out that if it was decided to feed the widows and orphans on Peace Day arrangements would have to be put in hand at once. They could not wait too long to see whether the money would be forthcoming, and he asked : Was it proposed to proceed whether the money was forthcoming or not ?

Mr. Wise said a small sub committee had been appointed, of which he had the misfortune to be one, to make the financial arrangements, and if the Council would give instructions for the scheme to be carried out, irrespective of whether the money was forthcoming or not, it would lighten their labours considerably. He could not see how they could say for a certainty that the scheme should be carried out until they had received the replies to their circular. He thought it was a mistake for the appeal to have been kept back so long. If people were prepared to subscribe, they would do so whether the appal was made in June or in August. Money from the rates could not be used to provide this dinner.

Mr. Loverock pointed out that intimation had been received from the Sailors’ and Soldiers’ Association to the effect that if the Council did not arrange for such a dinner the association would do so. Therefore, if the Council waited till they were curtain that they would get the money it might be too late either for them or the association to make the arrangements.—Mr. Hudson : It was definitely settled to carry out this suggestion last night.

The Clerk agreed, and said he understood that the widows’ and orphan’s tea should be given in any event, but that the dinner to the old people and the tea to the children was contingent upon the money being raised voluntarily.

Mr. Wise inquired if the members were willing to pay the money out of their own pocket, provided the funds were not forthcoming ; but the Chairman said he had no doubt but that the public of the town would see that the funds necessary for this scheme were subscribed.

Mr. Linnell inquired the approximate cost of the events set out in the programme.

Mr. Wharton replied that the sum originally asked for was £667, but with the possible reductions mentioned in the report the nett expenditure might be £482.—Mr. Linnell : There are certain to be a number of incidental items, so that the cost will possibly be £500, which will come within a penny rate.

On the motion of the Chairman, the committee’s report was adapted, and at the invitation of Mr. Wise, several of the members offered to assist in distributing the copies of the appeal.

With regard to the letter from the Pattern-makers’ Society, the Clerk was directed to acknowledge its receipt, and to add that the Council were proceeding with the arrangement.

A letter was read from the Procession Committee, asking the Council and staff to cooperate by taking part in the procession, which, it was hoped, would be “ unparalleled in the history of Rugby and worthy of the unique occasion.”

The question of taking out a third party insurance policy in case of accident was raised, and the Clerk was directed to make inquiries as to terms, and to decide on the advisability of same in consultation with the Chairman and Vice-Chairman.

EX-SERVICEMEN AT RUGBY CHURCH.
AN IMPRESSIVE ASSEMBLY.
MAJOR BAIRD COMMANDS THE PARADE.

Exceptional interest was evidenced in the parade of discharged and demobilised men of His Majesty’s Forces from Rugby and District, to the Parish Church on Sunday afternoon. There was an excellent response to the invitation of the Discharged Soldiers and Sailors’ Association, and the muster in the Recreation Ground numbered about 500 officers, N.C.O.’s and men. Most of the men wore their regimental badges and decorations. Fortunately the weather was fine, and large crowds lined the route of the procession. The men were formed up in three columns— representing the Navy, artillery and cavalry, and infantry—of four deep, and were headed by the Rugby Steam Shed Band under Bandmaster E. R. Stebbing. A number of disabled men were conveyed in a wagonette.

The parade was commanded by Major J. L. Baird, D.S.O., C.M.G., M P., wearing the uniform of the Scottish Horse, with Major R Darnley as parade adjutant. Other officers attending included : Major C. Seabroke, T.D., Capts G Miller and McMurtie, and Lieuts. Alien Hand, P. F. Lloyd, and Price Hughes. A prominent figure in the procession was the veteran Bombardier J. Norman, an old Balaclava hero. A number of time-serving men also took part. Lieut. C. Newman was present in the church wearing mufti.

THE CHURCH FILLED.

Seats were reserved at St. Andrew’s Church for the men, who were met at the entrance by the churchwardens, Messrs. F. Thompson and Beck, and the general public were admitted after all the men had been seated. The building was full to overflowing.

The order of service used was impressive and dignified, the prayer for “ the souls of our brothers departed ” being of particularly expressive beauty. The service opened with the hymn, “ Through all the changing scenes.” The 46th Psalm, “ God is our Hope and Strength,” was followed by the lesson from St. John’s Gospel read by the Rev. R. B. Winser. The hymns sung also included “ Fight the flood Fight,” “ For all the Saints,” and “ Abide with me.” An eloquent and inspiring address was given by the Rector (the Rev. Canon C. M. Blagden), who remarked that it was peculiarly happy that the day already selected by the Association for that service should have proved to be the day set aside for the National thanksgiving services throughout the country. The other clergy who participated in the service were the Revs. T. F. Charlton, T. H. Perry, and G. Roper.

THE “ LAST POST.”

At the conclusion of the final hymn the “ Last Post ” was sounded on the bugle in memory of fallen comrades, the congregation remaining standing. The buglers were Messrs. Wheatley and G. Green. A collection was taken during the service for the Sick Fund of the Association.

A return was made to the Recreation Ground, where Major Baird, on behalf of the discharged and demobilised men, expressed warm thanks to the time-serving N.C.O.’s and men who had attended. Major Baird then dismissed the officers, and the general parade was dismissed by Major Darnley.

The whole of the proceedings were organised in a thoroughly efficient manner by the Association, while the police arrangements were admirably carried out by Inspector Lines and P.S. Hawkes.

DUNCHURCH.
PEACE CELEBRATIONS.—At all services at the Parish Church there were unusually large congregations. In the evening a procession was organised, consisting of demobilised soldiers, who mustered something like fifty strong, the Parish Church of Dunchurch and Thurlaston, and many other leading resident. Headed by the Dunchurch Brass Band and the Church Choir in their robes, the procession made ita way from the Green to the Church, which speedily filled to overflowing. The collection, amounting to £6, was given to the Blinded Soldiers’ and Sailor’ Fund. A representative committee is at work in both parishes arranging for teas, sports, and other entertainments on July 19th. At a later date it is proposed to give a supper, smoking concert, etc., to all the returned soldiers.

OLD MURRAY SCHOOL BOY DECORATED.—An old Murray School boy was publicly honoured on Thursday of last week when Pte. Harry Nash, late of the Northamptonshire Regiment, was presented with the Mons Star by Mr. W. T. Coles Hodges, the headmaster. The presentation took place at the school building in the presence of the senior scholars, school managers, and several friends. Apologies for absence were sent by the Rev. Canon A A David, D.D. (headmaster of Rugby School), the Rev. Canon C. M. Blagden, the Rev G. H. Roper, Messrs. J. J. McKinnell, J.P., and G. Over. The recipient, who is the son of the Rugby Cemetery keeper, had intimated in his letters his preference that Mr. Hodges should himself decorate him. Mr. Hodges referred in complimentary terms to Nash’s achievement, and three hearty cheers were given in the youth’s honour.

OLD BOYS’ RE UNION AT OAKFIELD SCHOOL.
MEMORIAL WINDOWS FOR ST. MATTHEW’S CHURCH.

On Thursday in last week an enjoyable reunion of parents and old boys was held at Oakfield. In the evening a company of 150, including the present scholars, sat down to an excellent supper in the Benn Buildings, the Headmaster (Mr. T. A. Wise) presiding.

After the loyal toast had been honoured, the Headmaster gave “ The Visitors,” to which Lieut.-Col. Danielson, D.S.O., Royal Warwicks, responded for the visitors, and Mr. E. Atterbury, one of the first boys attending the school when it was opened in 1888, for the Old Boys.

Three former masters, Mr. Luard, Rev. J. F. Fuller, and Capt. C. R. Benstead. M.C., attended, and the health of the first named was proposed by Mr. G. Brereton, head boy of the school. Lieut K. Phillips submitted the health of Mr. and Mrs. Wise, to which the Headmaster responded.

About thirty old boys were present, a number being in khaki, and one travelling from Germany for the occasion.

The school sports were held in connection with the celebration, and the various events were keenly contested.

The designs of the memorial windows which it is proposed to place in St. Matthew’s Church, together with the brass plate bearing the names, connection it is interesting to note that 265 old boys were eligible for military service, and of there 205 actually joined up, a large portion of the remainder being physically unfit. Forty-two of the 205 were killed.

PARISH CHURCH WAR MEMORIAL.—A further meeting of the parishioners of St. Andrew’s, Rugby, was held at the Church House on Wednesday evening, when the proposed war memorial was further discussed. The Rector (Canon C. M. Blagden) presided, and the erection of a crucifix in the churchyard, as considered at the previous meeting, was definitely decided upon. The committee were instructed to obtain the necessary drawings and designs and to go forward with the scheme.

STOCKTON.
THE PEACE.—A meeting of the committee was held in the Village Hall on Friday. It was decided not to alter the date fixed for the general rejoicing, viz., August 5th. Each man who went to the war is to receive an embellished framed card for his services to the nation, and it was also agreed to present one to the relatives who have lost a son or a brother at the war.

LIEUT. F.W. YOUNG, of Elm Cottage, Hillmorton Road, Rugby, has been awarded the M.B.E. (military class) for excellent work done in France whilst in charge of a Labour Corps. Lieut Young joined the Army early in 1915, and went to France almost immediately. He is still serving with his unit in France.

A MILITARY ABSENTEE.—At the Rugby Police Court on Saturday, before Mr. J. Carter, Driver William Hinks, M.T., A.S.C., was charged with being an absentee from Osterley Park, Hounslow.—Prisoner, who was apprehended by P.S. Hawkes, stated that he absented himself entirely for the sake of his mother, who had been very ill.—Hinks was remanded to await an escort.

IN MEMORIAM.

BROWN.—In ever loving memory of my dear son, Pte. J. W. Brown, 10th Royal Warwickshire Regiment, who died in hospital at Dulmen, Germany, between July 12th and 18th, 1918. From Mother, Father, Sisters and Brothers.
“ In sorrow’s darkest hour,
The same kind Hand that chastens
Will wipe thy tears away.”

HIPWELL.—In ever-loving memory of our dear son, Pte. ARTHUR HIPWELL, killed in action on July 14, 1916, in France.
“ We often pause to think, dear son,
And wonder how you died ;
With no one near who loved you dear,
Before you closed your eyes.
You nobly did your duty,
And like a hero fell.
Could we have held your drooping head,
Or heard your last farewell.”
—From his ever-loving Mother and Father, Sisters and Brother.

KENNEY.—In loving memory of Sergt. ROLAND ISAAC, (1/7 R.W.R. Territorials), dearly beloved son of Mr. & Mrs. T. Kenney, Stretton-under-Fosse, who was killed in action on the Somme in France on July 14, 1916, aged 23 years.
“ He fought for his country,
He answered duty’s call ;
His home, his friends, his comforts,
He sacrificed them all ;
But he won the admiration
Of Britain’s glorious name.
Peace, perfect peace.”
—Never forgotten by his loving Mother and Father, Sisters and Brothers.

WHITE.—In loving memory of our dear son, WILLIAM SAMUEL (SAM), who fell in action in France on July 3, 1916, aged 20 years.
“ The fight is o’er,
The victory won,
And many mothers have lost a son.”
—Never forgotten by his Father & Mother.

WHITE.—In loving memory of Albert James, dearly beloved husband of Ethel Maud White, and eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. James White, of 70 Murray Road, who gave his life for his country on June 30, 1917.

5th Jul 1919. Peace Signed. Quiet Reception of the News in Rugby

PEACE SIGNED.
QUIET RECEPTION OF THE NEWS IN RUGBY.

The Treaty of Peace was signed in the Galerie des Glaces, at Versailles, on Saturday afternoon, five years to the day since the assassination at Sarajevo, which served as Germany’s pretext for the World-War. News of the signing was received with genuine relief all the world over. In Paris and London particularly enthusiasm was unbounded, its spontaneous informality being, perhaps its most notable feature.

The news was received in Rugby with the utmost tranquillity. There was no cheering or official public rejoicing, and even the bells of the Parish Church were silent. The only indication that anything unusual had taken place was that the Union Jack was hoisted on the Benn Buildings on receipt of the news from the Advertiser Office, and several business and private premises also flew flags.

CELEBRATIONS FIXED FOR JULY 19TH.

Saturday, July 19, is the day on which Peace is to be celebrated throughout the country, and, as far as possible, throughout the Empire also. This fact was announced by Mr. Bonar Law in the House of Commons on Tuesday.

RUGBY PEACE CELEBRATIONS.
ARRANGEMENTS FOR JULY 19TH.

Saturday, July 19th, has been decided upon as the date for celebrating the signing of Peace.

A  representative of the Rugby Advertiser waited upon Mr. C. C. Wharton, secretary of the Rugby Peace Celebration Committee, on Wednesday, and inquired what progress had been made with the local arrangements.

“ I am afraid we have not got very far yet,” was the reply. “ We have been waiting for the date to be fixed before making the final arrangements. We have counted on two days being set apart for this purpose, and now that it has been decided to have only one it places us in rather a difficulty. I hope, however, that we shall be able to arrange for the schools to be closed on the Friday, which can be observed as children’s day, and the adults rejoicing can then be continued to the Saturday.”

Other modifications will have to be made in view of the fact that the thanksgiving services on the various churches have been fixed for next Sunday.

Mr Wharton added that a letter had been received from the Lord-Lieutenant, inquiring whether it was desired to have troops to participate in the triumphal march, and this had been referred to Major Claude Seabroke for his recommendations.

Subject to the approval of the Urban District Council, it has been decided to grant an additional £125 to the decorations and illuminations sub-committee.

The Discharged Sailors’ and Soldiers’ Association has been allowed a representative on the main committee.

On Saturday evening the Salvation Army band paraded the principal streets of the town playing the National Anthems of the Allies. On Sunday they also continued to hold their preliminary Peace rejoicings.

THE REV. R. J. GRIFFITHS made allusions to the signing of the Peace at both services at the Rugby Congregational Church on Sunday. His evening discourse touched upon the relationship between patriotism and Christianity.

NEWBOLD-ON-AVON.
THE PEACE.—The villagers read the news of the signing of the Peace Treaty with a sense of thankfulness, but there was little outward display, save for the exhibition of flags, &c. At both morning and evening services there were large congregations in the Church, where the Vicar, the Rev. J. B. Hewitt, made reference to the happy event, emphasising its lessons.

PRINCETHORPE.
PEACE REJOICING.—As soon as the news arrived in the village that Peace had been signed it quickly spread, and soon flags and bunting were flying from most of the windows. Special reference to the event was made at the morning service in the church by the Rev. E. Power. The National Anthem was heartily sung after the evening service.

FLECKNOE.
WAR AND PEACE.—An important and well-attended meeting was held in the schoolroom on Tuesday to consider the question of celebrating the signing of Peace, and to receive suggestions as to a permanent war memorial for the parish of Wolfhamcote. Among those present were the Rev. W. C. McLaren, Vicar, Mr. T. Butlin, Mr. J. F. Goodman and Mr. Jones (Flecknoe), Mr. Chambers, Mr. Hargrave and Mr. Bosworth (Nethercote), Mr. Thompson and Mr. Lenygan (Wolfhamcote), Mr. Twigger, Mr. Hitchman, Mr. Russell and Mr Brooks (Flecknoe Station), and many others. Mr. Bosworth was voted to the chair, and the business of appointing a committee was speedily disposed of. It was decided to have a public dinner on August 5th, followed by sports. Among the proposals for a war memorial, the one that found most favour was a Village Institute, with reading room and gymnasium. This was warmly supported by Mr. Goodman, who immediately promised a handsome donation towards it, and on being put to the meeting was passed nem con. The question of obtaining a site, by gift or otherwise, and the probable cost, with other details, was left to the committee. The proceedings closed with a vote of thanks to the chairman.

LONG ITCHINGTON.
PEACE BONFIRE.—The news that the Peace Treaty had been signed was received here about 5.30 on Saturday, and a brave show of flags was shortly afterwards in evidence. A bonfire, which had been collected in anticipation on the green, was lighted. The Vicar conducted a special service at 7 p.m., and on Sunday thanksgiving services were held. About 60 communicated, and the offertories were for the additional curates’ fund.

PEACE.—The news that the Peace Treaty was signed reached Brinklow at about 8.15 on Saturday evening, and directly afterwards the flag was hoisted on the Church Tower and a peal was rung. A number of flags were also displayed from the houses. On Monday evening a social gathering was held at the schools, at which a large number were present.

NAPTON.
Mr. & Mrs. J. Hands have had official news from the War Office, stating that their son, Pte. Frank Hands, who was reported missing on April 1st, 1018, is now presumed to have been killed in action.

LIEUT. NEVILLE HANDS, late R.W.R., youngest son of Mr. F. E Hands, Sheep Street, received the Military Cross at the hands of the King at Buckingham Palace on Saturday—Peace Day.

LORD DENBIGH’S WELCOME TO RETURNED RAILWAYMEN.
HAPPY RUGBY REUNION.

The happy company assembled at the Cooperative Hall, Rugby, on Friday last, on the occasion of the dinner and reception to the L. & N.-W. Locomotive Department employees who had returned from the war, were unexpectedly honoured by a visit from Earl Denbigh.

His Lordship, in a happy speech, congratulated the men upon their safe return. He also opened the concert which followed with two songs in French. The guests, with their wives and friends, numbered nearly eighty, and keenly enjoyed the hospitality provided. Mr. G. W. Walton, Chief Foreman, Locomotive Department, presided, and a pleasant programme of songs was contributed to by Miss Clark, Messrs. Hoffman, Wright, College, W. Marsh, Good, Starmer, Smith, etc, while Mr. Ward and party rendered some instrumental pieces very successfully. The whole of the arrangements were admirably carried out by a committee, with Mr. W. Crisp chairman, and Mr. T. W. Clark hon. secretary.

ON SUNDAY, at 3.30 p.m, a memorial and thanksgiving service for discharged men will be held in Rugby Parish Church, and the Rector will deliver an address. All discharged and time-serving men are asked to parade in the Recreation Ground at 2.45 pm. There should be large crowds to take part in such a notable ceremony.

ST. MARIE’S WAR MEMORIAL.—A committee has been formed in connection with St. Marie’s War Memorial to consider plans and suggestions for the erection of the proposed memorial, which will be submitted to a general meeting to be held at a later date. For raising the necessary funds, the parish will be divided into districts, to each of which a collector will be appointed. For the convenience of those who are unable to pay their subscription at once, an instalment system has been devised. All subscriptions should be completed by September 30th.

ST. PETER’S WAR MEMORIAL.—At a meeting at Eastlands Council School on Wednesday evening, the proposed war memorial scheme for St. Peter’s Church, Rugby, was considered. The Rev. T. H Perry (curate-m-charge) presided, and announced that Messrs. Foster & Dicksee had offered to carry out the construction of panels in the Church, as suggested, at a total cost of £285 It was decided to enter into negotiations with the firm for the work to be done, and a committee was elected to deal with the matter. The committee were also deputed to consider the advisability of erecting a tablet in the Church, to bear the names of the fallen, and a suitable inscription.

EX-KAISER TO BE TRIED.
TRIBUNAL TO SIT IN LONDON.
The Prime Minister made his statement on the Peace Treaty in the House of Commons on Thursday. He announced that the Allies had unanimously decided that the Kaiser is to be tried by an Inter-Allied Tribunal sitting in London.

Diary of the week.
July 2.—British airship “ R34 ” starts on cross-Atlantic flight.—Officially stated all beer restrictions to be removed and Control Board abolished.—Well-attended meeting decides to revive Rugby Football Club.

FOOD NOTES.
“ PRESERVE YOUR RATION BOOKS.”
For various reasons it has been found necessary to continue registration for the purchase of sugar, butter, and meat. The public should, therefore, carefully preserve their ration books after June 30th.

THE FOOD CONTROLLER has increased the maximum producers’ price of milk during the month of July by 4d. per imperial gallon. Wholesalers’ and retailers’ maximum prices will be automatically increased by a similar amount, commencing July 1st and ending July 31st.

ST. PHILIP’S CHURCH CHOIR OUTING took place on Saturday, when, accompanied by the churchwardens, they went to Leamington. There they were met by the Rev. R. B. Winser, and visited Jephson Garden and had an enjoyable time on the river. After tea they visited Warwick, and again went boating.

B.T.H. OUTING.—Grandborough was the rendezvous of the assistant foremen of the B.T.H. Works, Rugby, and their wives on Saturday afternoon. A company of fifty-five took part. Tea was served at the Shoulder of Mutton Inn, Grandborough, during the course of which Mr. G. W. Thompson, the president, announced the signing of the Peace Treaty. Various games were played out of doors, and later in the evening the party again adjourned to the inn, where a concert was held, the artistes including :—Mr. and Mrs. Mowis, Messrs. Woodcock, C. Franklin, Turnbull, Stretton. Spencer, Cawthorne (accompanist), etc.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR.

PEACE MUSIC.
SIR,—Re the music at the coming Peace Celebrations. One of the pieces to be played by the massed bands is “ The Lost Chord.” With all due respect to the composer of this beautiful piece, why play it on an occasion like this ? By all means let the public have good music, but should it not be more appropriate than the above-mentioned ? This selection (and possibly others) is not consistent with the effort.—Yours, etc., INTERESTED.

CHILDREN & THE PEACE CELEBRATIONS.
SIR,—I feel sure that Mr. Johnson voiced the opinion of many Rugby residents in his protest against elaborate Peace celebrations.
Our thankfulness that the War is over, and our gratitude towards those who have fought, can never find adequate expression in fireworks, processions, and other empty shows.
However, I quite agree that it is a fitting time to provide some kind of enjoyment for the children—who have missed so much of their rightful happiness during the past five years.—Yours, etc.,
“ LEST WE FORGET.”

THE CRUCIFIX AS A WAR MEMORIAL.
SIR,—I was very grieved to see from your report of a vestry meeting at St. Andrew’s Church that it was recommended to place an Image of Christ on the Cross or a crucifix in the churchyard on semi-public property, too, my reasons being : (1) A breach of the second commandment, “ Thou shalt not make to thyself any graven image, nor the likeness of anything”— much less of our blessed Lord Himself. (2) It is an insult to Him, the Risen ascended Lord, to place Him as a “ dead ” Christ, instead of a living one. (3) The Cross, a heathen Pagan symbol of the old heathen Rome, “ suffered under Pontius Pilate,” the Roman governor. The Cross was not a Christian symbol at all in the early Church. (4) An object of superstitious reverence. The Church of England teaches that “ idolatry cannot possibly be separated from images set up.” (5) It is illegal and opposed to the law of God and man.
For these, with other reasons, I trust a more suitable memorial will be found.—Yours,
&c.,
A CHURCHMAN.
Rugby, July 1st.

IN MEMORIAM.

BLAND.—In loving memory of our dear son, Pte. C. BLAND,  killed in action on July 1, 1916. Also his dear brother, Pte. R. Bland, killed in action on June 4, 1918, both aged 18.—“ Their King and country called them.”—Sadly missed by their loving Mother, Father, Sisters and Brothers.

BOYES.—In affectionate remembrance of Pte. F. H. BOYES, Berkshire Regiment, killed in action in France on July 1, 1916 ; aged 17.
“ Three years have passed since that sad day,
When our dear one was called away.
Bravely he went to duty’s call,
Gave his life for one and all.”
—Never forgotten by his loving Mother, Father, Sisters and Brothers.

HAMMOND.—In loving memory of Pte. A. H. HAMMOND, No. 9943, 2nd R.W.R., killed in France on July 1, 1916.
“ Three years have passed since that sad day,
When one we loved  was called away.
God took him home, it was His will,
But in our heats he liveth still.”
—From his loving Wife and Children, Mother and Brothers and Sisters.

FACER.—In ever-loving memory of our beloved son and brother, Lance-Corpl. F. FACER, K.R.R., who was killed in action on July 1st, 1916.—“ Peace, perfect peace.”—Still deeply mourned by Mother, Dad, Brothers and Sister.

JAMES.—In loving memory of ALBERT JAMES, dearly beloved husband of Ethel Maud White, and eldest son of Mr. & Mrs. James White, of 70 Murray Road, who gave his life for his country on June 30, 1917.

SEENEY.—In fondest memory of Signaller BILLY SEENEY (Bourton), killed in France, July 2, 1916.
“ Father in Thy tender keeping
Leave we there our dear son sleeping.”
—Sadly missed by his loving Mother, sisters and Brothers.

27th Jun 1919. Congregational Soldiers and Sailors Welcomed

CONGREGATIONAL SOLDIERS AND SAILORS WELCOMED.

A happy company of returned soldier and sailor members of the Church, with their wives, were entertained to a tea and social at the Congregational Schoolroom, Rugby, on Tuesday, the party numbering about 50. The committee who organised proceedings arranged a well-selected programme, and made the guests thoroughly comfortable. The rooms were artistically decorated with bunting and mottoes, and the Church roll of honour was exhibited, surrounded by a laurel wreath. Appropriate addresses of welcome were made by the Rev. D. J. Griffiths (presiding), Mr. J. T. Clarke, and Mr. R. Thomas (secretary of the committee). Most of the guests individually responded. Each man was presented with a copy of Dr. Weymouth’s “ New Testament of Modern Speech,” and a happy thought was the presentation of books to the relatives of the fallen, with suitable inscriptions. At the concert which followed songs were pleasingly rendered by Mrs. Darling, Mr. Gassett, and Mr. Mochrie ; Mr. P. Dyer being the accompanist, and Miss Twite recited. The arrangements were admirably supervised by Mrs. Thomas, Mrs Gatecliff, the Misses Bird, Cook, Waite, Gilling and Anderson, Messrs. Walton and Clarke.

NAPTON.
MEMORIAL SERVICE.—On Sunday week a memorial to the men who had fallen in the war was unveiled. The tablet of Portland stone with the 29 names inscribed upon it, and inscription below, “ Who gave their lives for King and Country, in the cause of Liberty, Righteousness, and Justice, 1914-1919. There name liveth for evermore ” was everted on the wall of the Napton Girls’ School by the Rev. Ronald Irwin, D.S.O., M.C. The greater part of the parishioners were present at the service. The Southam band was engaged to play for the hymns. The Rev. J. Armstrong (Vicar) and the Rev. R. Irwin and Napton choir attended. Mr. C. Watson unveiled the stone. The parishioners greatly appreciate the kindness of the Rev. R. Irwin in erecting the tablet, and tender him their greatest thanks.

LONG ITCHINGTON.
WAR MEMORIAL.—A meeting was held in the schools on Friday evening, when it was unanimously decided that a village hall should be erected as a memorial. A discussion afterwards took place as to the form peace celebrations should take, and it was resolved that a tea be provided for all, with sports, etc., to follow. A representative committee was chosen to make the necessary arrangements.

IN MEMORIAM.

ASTILL.—In Loving memory of Pte. HERBERT ASTILL, who died of wounds received in action June 29th, 1915. Gone, but not forgotten by his Loving Mother and Sisters.

CHATER.—In ever loving memory of our beloved and only child, RFM. W. H. CHATER, 12th R.B., of Dunchurch, who was killed in action at Ypres, June 30, 1916. Still deeply mourned by Father and Mother.

IZZARD.—In loving memory of PTE. CLIFFORD IZZARD, Royal Warwicks, Killed in France June 7th, 1916. Gone, but not forgotten by his Mother, Sister, and Brother.—Also, on 24th June, 1916, THOMAS IZZARD, of Brickill Cottage, Cawston, Father of the above.
“ Three years have passed since that sad day
When those we loved were called away.
God took them home—it was His will,
But in our hearts they liveth still.”
—From his loving Wife and Children.

Bosworth, Frederick Albert. Died 30th Jun 1919

Frederick Albert BOSWORTH deserves our admiration as one of the longest serving and most decorated soldiers commemorated on the Rugby Memorial Gates.  He was already a member of the Territorial ‘Rugby Howitzer Battery’ before the war; and went to war with them and won the Military Medal and Bar, the French Medaille Militaire, and was Mentioned in Dispatches; he was wounded and gassed, and then volunteered for further service in Russia where he was killed in action in June 1919.  He became Rugby’s last ‘official’ Casualty on the War Memorial Gates.

= = = =

Frederick Albert BOSWORTH was born in about mid-1895 in Bitteswell.  He was the son of Frederick Bosworth [b.c.1866 in Lutterworth] and Mary Anne ‘Annie’, née Wright, Bosworth [b.c.1863 in Bitteswell], whose marriage was registered in Q4, 1894 in Leicester.  It was her second marriage.

In 1901, Frederick’s father, Frederick senior, was a ‘house painter.  The family were all living at Bitteswell.  As well as his and Annie’s three young children, there were the three older Wright step-sons aged 14, 11 and 9 from Annie’s previous marriage.

Before 1911, the family had moved to Rugby and Frederick Albert had attended the Murray School.  In 1911 they were living in a seven room house at 86 Bath Street, Rugby.  Frederick snr. was a ‘house painter’ for the builders – Messrs Linnell & Son.[1]  He had been married 17 years and they had four children.  Frederick Albert was now an ‘apprentice turner’ for a ‘mechanical engineers’, Willans and Robinson.  The other three younger children would have been at school.  Two of his wife’s Wright boys were also at home and working as a ‘fitter’ and an ‘apprentice fitter’ respectively also at a ‘mechanical engineers’ – probably also at Willans and Robinson.

Before the War, Frederick had been a member of the Territorial ‘Rugby Howitzer Battery’ – this was more properly named the 5^th Warwickshire (Rugby) Howitzer Battery, 4^th South Midland (Howitzer) Brigade.  From 1908 the Rugby Battery had been in temporary headquarters at the Willans and Robinson’s Engineering Works in Newbold Road, Rugby, so perhaps Frederick had seen them when he was an apprentice, and it may not be a surprise that he joined them.  In 1910, they moved to a new headquarters at 72 Victoria Avenue, Rugby, known locally as the Rowland Street Drill Hall.[2]

Whilst no Service Record survived, some details of Frederick’s service can be gleaned from his Medal Card and his CWGC entry.  Frederick was a gunner with the early number ‘233’, in the 5^th Warwickshire (Rugby) Howitzer Battery.  His name and number are confirmed in the listings in the papers and diaries of its commanding officer, Col. Frank West.[3]

The Battery was the first territorial artillery unit to go to France, and they went from Southampton to Le Havre, France, on 30 March 1915.  The locations where the Battery served can be found on-line, in extracts from the Brigade Diaries.[4]  They served together until the artillery reorganisation in May 1916.

In May 1916 Brigades in the British Artillery were renumbered.  The 4^th South Midland became 243 Brigade.  But its men were scattered.  The Howitzer Brigades in the British Field Artillery were split up, and their guns, officers, men and support staff redistributed to Brigades previously armed with 18 pounder guns.  … The 5^th Howitzer Battery from the 4^th South Midland Brigade was allocated to 241 Brigade (previously 2^nd South Midland, Worcester) …[5]

During the re-organisation, Frederick was one of the men on the 5^th Battery transfer list.  This listed the men of 243^rd Brigade who were transferred to form the ‘D’ Howitzer battery of the 241^st Brigade in May 1916.  The list included ‘No.233 Gnr. Bosworth, F.A.’[6]

During 1916, in a letter published, no doubt coincidentally, in the Rugby Advertiser on the first day of the Battle of the Somme, Frederick described some of his duties, and that he had been ‘Mentioned in Dispatches’.

Gunner F Bosworth, D Battery, 241st (S.M Brigade) R.F.A, an Old Murrayian, was mentioned in Sir Douglas Haig’s last despatch.  In a letter to his old schoolmaster, Mr W T Coles Hodges, he says:- “I am a telephonist in our Battery, and in this work we have many opportunities of taking part in some of the exciting incidents of this War, and it is in these little stunts that they have evidently thought me worth mentioning.”[7]

From the date of the article, his gallant actions must have been undertaken before 1 July 1916, although a later article mentioned the date as 21 July!  However, before August 1916, Frederick had been awarded a Military Medal for his actions, as reported in a long article in the Rugby Advertiser.  It was reported that he went ‘… out under heavy fire several times to repair the telephone wire in order to keep up communication with the battery’.  A later report stated that he had been ‘Repairing telephone lines and bringing in wounded under heavy shellfire.’ 

MILITARY MEDAL FOR A RUGBY HOWITZER MAN.
Battery Sergt-Major George Hopewell, of the Rugby Howitzer Battery, writing to Mr A Adnitt, as Hon. Secretary of the Rugby Territorials Comforts Association to thank him for parcels of comforts received, adds:-
“ You will be pleased to know that one of our boys, Gunner Bosworth, has been awarded the Military Medal for gallantry in the field on July 21st, going out under heavy fire several times to repair the telephone wire in order to keep up communication with the battery. He was also mentioned in Sir Douglas Haig’s despatch for distinguished conduct in the field.
“ We have been in the thick of the fighting since July 1st, but have been very fortunate as regards casualties, as we have had only five wounded – Corpl Hipwell, Bombardiers Smith and Rixom, and Gunners Seaton and Packwood.
“ I dare say you read in the papers about our Division, together with the Anzacs, taking one of the most important points along the front on July 23rd. They were congratulated by the Commander-in-Chief and the Corps Commander on their performance.”
Gunner Bosworth is the son of Mr G Bosworth, who formerly worked as a painter for Messrs Linnell & Son, but has now removed to Essex.  His grandfather resides at Lutterworth.
In a letter to his old schoolmaster, Gunner Bosworth, an Old Murrayian, says:- “On the morning of the ‘big push’ I was on duty at our observation station, and had occasion to go out on the line and repair breakages caused by the shelling.  The O.C. was good enough to bring the incident to the notice of the General, and I have since heard the good news of being granted the above medal.”

HIGH PRAISE FOR THE HOWITZER BRIGADE.
The following letter from the Brigadier Commanding the Artillery Division to the O.C’s of the Batteries and Ammunition Columns, will be of much local interest :—
“ Will you please convey to all ranks my appreciation of the excellent work performed by the batteries and D.A.C during the last five weeks.  The preparation of gun positions for the July offensive entailed continuous and very hard work on the batteries, but this labour was well repaid in the fewness of the casualties suffered at the guns.  The Division subsequently taking over reported that they were the best positions they had yet seen.
“ The continual night firing has been particularly trying, but the shooting was consistently good, which reflects great credit on all ranks, and the successes gained by the Infantry were, in the words of the Divisional Commander, largely due to the effective support rendered by the Artillery.  I hope during this week all ranks will be able to get the rest which they all deserve.[8]

Frederick’s Military Medal was ‘gazetted’ in August 1916,
War Office, 23rd August, 1916. His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to award the Military Medal for bravery in the field to the under-mentioned Non-commissioned Officers and Men: – 233 Gunner F. A. Bosworth, R.F.A.[9]

In the reorganisation of the artillery, Frederick received a new number 840058, and at some date, probably after his actions in 1916, been promoted to Bombardier.  On 16 April 1917, Frederick had been in action which resulted in him being awarded a Bar to his Military Medal, and he had written of his experiences to his old schoolmaster.  It was later reported that he had been ‘Maintaining communications under heavy shell fire’.

HOWITZER BATTERY MAN HONOURED.
Bombardier F Bosworth, the R.F.A, has written to his old schoolmaster, Mr W T Coles Hodges, informing him that he has been awarded a bar to his Military Medal for bravery on the night of April 16th.  Another bombardier was awarded the Military Medal for the same deed.  He adds that, having been mentioned in despatches and awarded the Military Medal and a bar to same, he so far carries the honours of the Battery.[10]

The second award was gazetted in July 1917.
His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to approve of the award of a Bar to the Military Medal to the under-mentioned Non-commissioned Officers and Men: –
840058 Bombr. F. A. Bosworth, R.F.A.  … (M.M.s gazetted 23rd August, 1916.)[11]

The same action also led to the award of the equivalent French decoration, the Medaille Militaire, which was reported in the Rugby Advertiser in June 1917, and was formally ‘gazetted’ in July 1917.

BOMBARDIER BOSWORTH AGAIN HONOURED.
Bombardier F Bosworth, of the Rugby Howitzer Battery, has been awarded the Medaille Militaire for the same action that gained for him the bar to his Military Medal.[12]

Medaille Militaire … 840058 Bombardier Frederick Bosworth, Royal Field Artillery.[13]

In August 1917 Frederick was severely wounded, and probably gassed, and it seems he was evacuated back to England for hospital treatment.  It seems that on 25 November 1917, the opportunity was taken to present him with his medals at Chatham.  The Rugby Advertiser reported in detail.

PRESENTATION TO A HOWITZER MAN.
On the occasion of the presentation of medals at Chatham on the 25th inst, Bombardier F A Bosworth R.F.A, was the recipient of medals.  The presentation was made by Colonel H R Adair, Commander Royal Artillery, Thames and Medway Garrison, who said: “The Royal Artillery has no colours.  Our colours are the proud traditions of our Regiment, to which we cling, and around which we rally, just as other Corps have rallied round their Banners.  It is men like Bombardier Bosworth who not only preserve these traditions, but, who, by their deeds, actually add to and ennoble them.  I am proud to stand here to-day representing His Majesty the King, who, you will remember is our Colonel-in-Chief, to present to Bombardier Bosworth, on his behalf, two medals, which he has gained by his own brave hands.  They are the Military Medal of England and the Military Medal of France.”
“ The records of the deeds for which he has won these read as follows:- Military Medal of England: “Repairing telephone lines and bringing in wounded under heavy shellfire.”  Bar to Military Medal of England and Military Medal of France: “Maintaining communications under heavy shell fire.”
“ These medals are a proud possession for himself and splendid heirlooms for his kindred to possess.  On behalf of our Country, our allies in France, our Regiment and its Colonel-In-Chief our King.  I shake hands with Bombardier Bosworth and wish him health and happiness and long life to wear his noble distinctions.”[14]

There do not appear to be any further details of his actions in the war, however, after the Armistice, hostilities continued in Russia until 1920, where there was still fighting in support of the ‘White Russians’ against the ‘Bolsheviks’. It seems that although he was still weak from his wounds and suffering from the effects of gas, it seems that Frederick ‘… was quite ready carry on in North Russia when the call came for help.’  He joined the 420^th Battery, Royal Field Artillery, which served in Russia with the North Russian Expeditionary Force from September 1918 to July 1919.[15]

Frederick Bosworth was ‘killed in action’ on 30 June 1919.  He was buried in a local churchyard at Lumbushi Chyd, Russia.  His grave was marked by a wooden cross with his particulars, and also ‘RIP’ and ‘Killed in Action’.  ‘The grave was enclosed by a wooden fence about one foot high.’

It was intended that these isolated graves should be ‘concentrated’ and it was intended that his body would be exhumed and moved to the Murmansk New British Cemetery, where the graves could be more properly attended.  This was not permitted by the Russians.

His gravestone had already been prepared, and included the family inscription, ‘He Loved Honour More Than He Feared Death’.  It was placed instead as ‘Special Memorial ref: B. 4.’ on the wall of the Murmansk Cemetery.

Murmansk New British Cemetery was made in 1930.  The 40 burials were moved in from the Old British Cemetery that had been used by No 86 General Hospital in 1918-1919.  The special memorials commemorate officers and men known to have been buried in cemeteries elsewhere in the Murman area.  The cemetery now contains 83 burials and commemorations of the First World War.

In August 1919, the Rugby Advertiser wrote,
POPULAR RUGBY N.C.O.’s DEATH.
CORPORAL BOSWORTH KILLED IN RUSSIA.
Further details are to hand in regard to Corpl. Frederick Albert Bosworth, who, as announced in our last issue, was recently killed in action while serving with the R.F.A. with the North Russian Expeditionary Force.  Cpl. Bosworth was member the Rugby Howitzer Battery the time the war broke out, his home address being 86 Bath Street.  He remained with the local battery during its service in France until he was severely wounded in August, 1917.  For his services over there he was awarded the Military Medal, and later a bar, and the Medaille Militaire.  Although weak from his wounds and suffering from the effects of gas, Cpl. Bosworth was quite ready carry on in North Russia when the call came for help.  It was quite evident from letters received from his officers that Cpl. Bosworth did justice to his own reputation and to the good name of the battery.  The deceased corporal was at one time employed as an apprentice at Messrs. Willans and Robinson’s works, and was familiarly known to his many friends as ‘Sammy’.[16]

As well as his awards for gallantry, the Military Medal and Bar and the French, Medaille Militaire, Frederick Albert BOSWORTH was awarded the Victory and British medals and the 1914-1915 Star.  He is remembered on the Rugby Memorial Gate.

His father and mother moved to ‘Essex’ before 1916, and after the war their contact address for the CWGC was ‘Medveza-Gora’, Hemitage Road, Higham, Rochester.

 

RUGBY REMEMBERS HIM

– – – – – –

 

This article on Frederick Albert BOSWORTH was researched and written for a Rugby Family History Group [RFHG] project, by John P H Frearson and is © John P H Frearson and the Rugby Family History Group, October 2018.

[1]      The manager of the business, the son of its owner, William Henry LINNELL, died of wounds received in the German ‘Operation Mchael’ Offensive in 1918.  He died in hospital in Rouen on 8 April 1918 – see ‘Rugby Remembers’ for 8 April 2018, at https://rugbyremembers.wordpress.com/2018/04/08/linnell-william-henry-died-8th-apr-1918/.

[2]      See https://sites.google.com/site/4thsouthmidlandbrigade/Home/dates-and-places-served-1, for the details of the Battery’s locations and postings.

[3]      https://sites.google.com/site/4thsouthmidlandbrigade/Home/5th-battery-list-1918.

[4]      https://sites.google.com/site/4thsouthmidlandbrigade/Home/dates-and-places-served-1.

[5]      https://sites.google.com/site/4thsouthmidlandbrigade/Home.

[6]      The list is in an Appendix to TNA ref: WO 95/2749, War Diary, 241 Brigade Royal Field Artillery, May 1916.

[7]      https://rugbyremembers.wordpress.com/2016/06/30/1st-jul-1916-charge-against-an-enemy-alien-dismissed/, as transcribed from Rugby Advertiser, 1 July 1916.

[8]      https://rugbyremembers.wordpress.com/2016/08/12/12th-aug-1916-down-with-diphtheria-but-not-depressed/, as transcribed from Rugby Advertiser, 12 August 1916.

[9]      The London Gazette, Supplement:29719, Page:8360, 22 August 1916, also, The Edinburgh Gazette, Issue:12976, Page:1490, 24 August 1916.

[10]     https://rugbyremembers.wordpress.com/2017/06/06/2nd-jun-1917-cooking-demonstration-at-rugby/, as transcribed from Rugby Advertiser, 6 June 1917.

[11]     The London Gazette, Supplement 30172, Page 6824, 6 July 1917.

[12]     https://rugbyremembers.wordpress.com/2017/06/16/16th-jun-1917-doctors-and-the-war-appeal-to-the-public/, as transcribed from Rugby Advertiser, 16 June 1917.

[13]     The Edinburgh Gazette, Issue 13114, Page 1369, 17 July 1917.

[14]     https://rugbyremembers.wordpress.com/2017/12/01/1st-dec-1917-presentation-to-a-howitzer-man/, as transcribed from Rugby Advertiser, 1 December 1917.

[15]     TNA ref: WO 95/5426, 420 Battery Royal Field Artillery, Russia, September 1918 – July 1919.

[16]     Rugby Advertiser, Friday, 8 August 1919.

 

20th Jun 1919. Atlantic Airmen Welcomed at Rugby, Enthusiastic Scenes at the Station

ATLANTIC AIRMEN WELCOMED AT RUGBY.
ENTHUSIASTIC SCENES AT THE STATION.

Enthusiastic scenes were witnessed at Rugby Station on Tuesday afternoon, when the two Atlantic airmen, Capt. Alcock and Lieut. Brown, passed through on the Irish Mail on their way from Holyhead to London. The daily press had announced that the train would stop at Rugby, where Miss Marguerite Kennedy, Lieut. Brown’s fiancee, would join the party, and about an hour before the mail was due some hundreds of the general public gathered in the vicinity of the Station. They were doomed to disappointment, however, as only travellers and a few persons specially interested were allowed to pass the gates. This notwithstanding, a large crowd assembled on the up platform, and when the train steamed into the station, it was the signal for a loud outburst of cheering, which was repeated time after time as Capt. Alcock, youthful and resourceful looking, attired in a lounge suit, stepped smilingly on to the platform, where he was besieged by a host of admirers and autograph hunters. In the meantime Lieut. Brown remained in the saloon, where he was joined by Miss Kennedy—a slim daintily dressed girl with a charming smile and laughing eyes—and her parents, Major and Mrs. Kennedy, who had arrived earlier in the afternoon. The private greetings over, Lieut. Brown, who was wearing the light blue uniform of the Air Service, joined his companion at the carriage dour, and he, too, came in for a rapturous reception, the crowd by this time being augmented by several hundred people who had scaled the temporary barrier. The train stopped about ten minutes, and as it resumed its journey the cheers broke out afresh, and the crowd pressed forward, everyone being anxious to wring the gallant fellows’ hands.

The police arrangements were under the charge of Det. Inspector Goode, of the Company’s Police, and P.S. Hawke.

Considerable disappointment was expressed by the people unable to gain admission to the platform. and in this connection we have received the following letter :—
“ ONE OF THE DISAPPOINTED CROWD.”
To the Editor of the Advertiser.

SIR,—May I be allowed to inquire, through the medium of your columns, why a certain number of the public were refused admission to the L. & N.-W. Railway platform on Tuesday last, when the heroes of the great Atlantic flight passed through the station. The precise hour of their arrival was publicly announced in practically every daily newspaper, and yet a crowd of townspeople—members of the British Nation and Empire to which these airmen belong—were denied the privilege of doing honour to two men whose great achievement has thrilled the civilised world.

We in Rugby have not often the opportunity of publicly paying tribute to bravery and skill, and we deeply regret it when we are not allowed to show our appreciation of them. I know I am voicing the opinions of many in the disappointed crowd (for whom there was ample space on the platform), and we should be very grateful if any explanation could be made to us, so that we may know what to expect on a similar great occasion.—-Yours, etc,

I. O. M. WALROND.
One of the Disappointed Crowd.

THE OFFICIAL EXPLANATION.

An official of the Company to whom a copy of this letter was shown by a representative of the Rugby Advertiser, pointed out that the Station premises are private property, and that the Company has a perfect right to exclude anyone who does not desire to travel. “ Moreover,” he said, “ our staff, while sufficient for ordinary duties, is quite incapable of controlling a large crowd, and had all who wished been allowed to enter the station, the officials would have been unable to cope with them.” “ As it was, “ he added, “ the routine work of the staff was seriously interfered with.” Reference is made in the letter to the fact that the visit of the airmen to Rugby was widely advertised, but, the official pointed out, the advertisement was not issued by the Railway Company, who cannot be held responsible for announcements made by outside sources.

SOLDIERS’ WELCOME HOME TO CHURCHOVER.
HEROES HONOURED.

The picturesque little village of Churchover was en fete last Monday, the day being observed as a general holiday. The streets were decorated with flags, and on all sides there was evidence of an enthusiastic welcome home to the men of the village returned from active service. It was a very happy reunion.

An interesting programmer had been arranged by an efficient committee, and splendid sports were witnessed throughout the day, which happily was very fine. At about four o’clock, on the arrival of the Bilton Brass Band, a procession was formed outside the Village Hall and proceeded towards the Vicarage. The returned soldiers fell into line under the orders of Lieut. Smeeton immediately after the band, and were followed by the residents of the entire village. The Rev. L. G. Berrington, who awaited their arrival, preceded them to the church, where a short and very impressive memorial service was held. The edifice was crowded to its fullest capacity. The choral service was accompanied by the band, and an appropriate selection of hymns was rendered. The Rector delivered an address, and chose at his text : “ He shall swallow up death in victory.” Referring to the memory of the men who had made the supreme sacrifice, he said : “ They have died for a cause that was just and not their own, and their reward will be a crown in the world beyond. They have won a victory which will ensure national progress and the building up of happy homes, and foster in their hearts a greater love and dependence on the Almighty.”

Later an excellent repast was provided in the Hall for the guests and their friends, . . . .

The Vicar presided, and welcomed the men on behalf of Churchover. Mr. T. Arnold returned thanks on behalf of the men, and stated how fully both his comrades and himself appreciated the great kindness of their fellow-townsmen. A letter was read from Mrs. Arthur James, Coton House, expressing her regret at being unable to attend the festivities. The following toasts were honoured :—“ The King and Army and Navy,” “ The Guests,” and “ Our Fallen Comrades’ ” (in silence). During tea the band discoursed a pleasing selection of music, which was highly appreciated. The continuance of the programme of the sports, which had been temporarily suspended, was resumed. The obstacle race and the pudding race caused great amusement.

. . .  In the Vicarage grounds, after the conclusion of the sports, Miss Miller, accompanied by Mrs. Berrington on the piano, sang in very pleasing style. Dancing continued during the evening, and suitable music was provided. Supper at 10 p.m. brought an agreeable day’s proceedings to a close.

RUGBY URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL.
EX-SOLDIERS ASK FOR REPRESENTATION ON PEACE COMMITTEE.
EX-SOLDIERS AND PEACE CELEBRATIONS.

Arising out of the minutes, Mr. Newman, of the Discharged and Demobilised Sailors’, Soldiers’, and Airmen’s Association, mentioned that at the last meeting of the Association the question of peace celebrations was discussed. As they knew, the members helped considerably in trying to bring about the peace, and they wished to draw attention to the fact that there seemed to be nothing arranged for the mothers, widows, and orphans of soldiers. It was suggested that the old people and children should be entertained, but the members of the Association felt that something should be done for the classes he had mentioned. Peace Day would be a hard day for many people, and they should, therefore, try if possible to make their lot happier than it would otherwise be if they were left severely alone.—The Chairman said he had met Mr. Wharton, the secretary to the Peace Celebration Committee, and they had decided to ask the Association to send a representative to their next meeting. This representative could raise the question, and it would come before the Council in due course.

Mr. Newman said the Association felt very strongly the fact that they were not represented in any way on the Peace Rejoicing Committee. They thought they should have been asked as soon as—if not before—any other body. In fact, they felt no strongly on this point of entertaining the widows and orphans, etc., that if the Peace Committee can do nothing they intended doing it themselves.—The Chairman said he hoped Mr. Newman would make it quite clear to the Association that the fact that they were not directly represented was due to a pure oversight. They desired every public body to be represented.

RUGBY ROMAN CATHOLICS.
PROPOSED WAR MEMORIAL AT ST. MARIE’S.

In accordance with the wishes expressed by the members of a deputation which waited upon the Rector of St. Mane’s, a meeting was convened and held at the conclusion of the usual evening devotions last Sunday. There was a very large and representative attendance, and it was unanimously decided that a permanent memorial be elected in the church grounds to perpetuate the memory of the Rugby Catholics who had fallen in the war.

The Rev. S. Jarvis, Rector, presided. An influential committee was appointed to raise the necessary funds and carry out the various proposals connected with this laudable object. A further meeting will be held on June 29th at the schools attached to the church, at which the report of the committee will be submitted and considered.

LILBOURNE AERODROME FOR SALE
BUILDINGS SUITABLE FOR A FACTORY.

The Disposal Board of the Ministry of Munitions are including several aerodromes that are not required for Government purposes in the sale of Government property. Of these, two are situated at Goldhanger and Stow Maries, in Essex, two in Suffolk at Burgh Castle and Covehithe, .one at Lilbourne, and the others are at Ramsey (Hunts), Telscombe (Suffolk), and Edzell (Kincardine).

IN MEMORIAM.

COLSTON.—In ever treasured memory of our beloved son, ERNEST H. COLSTON, killed in action in France, June 20th, 1918, aged 19 years. “ At rest—his duty done.”

ELKINGTON.—In ever loving memory of DRIVER W. ELKINGTON, .F.A.., killed in action in France June 17th, 1916. From his Father, Mother, Brothers and Sisters.

HUGHES.—In ever loving memory of L/c (JACK) HUGHES, who was killed in action in France, June 18, 1915.
“ We pictured his safe returning,
And longed to clasp his hand,
But God postponed the meeting—
‘Twill he in the Better Land.”
— Never forgotten by his Loving Father and Mother, Sister and Brother.

MARLOW.—To the precious memory of PRIVATE JOHN MARLOW, York and Lancs. Regt., killed in action at Messines on June 18th, 1917.
“ Now the labourer’s task is o’er,
Now the battle-day is past,
Father, in Thy gracious keeping
Leave we now our dear one sleeping.”
—Never forgotten by Father, Mother, Brothers and Sisters and Daughter.
“ In life we loved you dearly,
In death we do the same.” (Ciss?)

SANDS.—In loving memory of PTE. HARRY SANDS, 1/4 Norfolks, who died June 17th, 1917. Buried at El-Arish Military Cemetery.
“ There is a link death cannot sever,
Love and remembrance last for ever.”
—Sadly missed by his loving Wife & Children.