26th Jan 1918. Airman falls from an Aeroplane

AIRMAN FALLS FROM AN AEROPLANE.

On Tuesday morning a shocking aeroplane accident, as the result of which Second-Lieut Harold Griffith Nelson (25), a Canadian officer, lost his life, occurred near Rugby. He had been flying for nearly an hour, and when at an altitude of about 2,000ft. he was seen to fall from his machine. His body was terribly mangled, and death must have been instantaneous. The aeroplane continued its flight, and came to earth about three-quarters of a mile away. The cause of the accident has not been ascertained, and it is not known whether Lieut Nelson had strapped himself in in accordance with the rules of the Service.

LOCAL WAR NOTES.

Sergt J R Sacree, 10th Rifle Brigade, late assistant to Mr C T Tew, who has been missing since November 30th, is now reported a prisoner of war in Germany. This is the fourth time he has been wounded. He has won the Military Medal, and was again recommended in September last.

The younger son of Mr T Pearman, of Ryton-on-Dunsmore, has recently been promoted to the rank of Captain. He is now with his regiment in Italy.

Major T E Manning, Yeomanry, who previously captained the Northamptonshire Cricket Club, has left his regiment to take on duty as an Assistant Provost Marshal with the British troops in Italy. Major Manning was mobilised with his regiment at the outbreak of war.

Capt J H Lee, 2/1 London Regiment, who was awarded the Military Cross at last summer, has been wounded in eight places, but is making good progress. He was employed in the B.T.H Test at the time he was granted a commission in May, 1915 he was also a member of the Albert Street Congregational Church Choir.

Lieut H A Holder, of the B.T.H Drawing Office, has been promoted Captain (R.G.A). He was wounded in June last, and has now returned to the B.EF. During his stay in England Captain Holder married Miss Nancy Sleath, of Clifton-on-Dunsmore.

RUGBY PRISONERS OF WAR FUND.

The following in an extract from a letter from the North Staffordshire Regiment Prisoners of War Association to Hon Secretary of the Rugby Prisoners of War Committee :—

“ The work your committee is doing is wonderful, for we know that it not an easy matter to support local men of different regiments.”

Four additional local prisoners of war have been added this week, bringing the number up to 83. The cost to provide for these men—men from our own district—is now £230 6s 6d every four weeks.

BRAVE HILLMORTON SOLDIER DECORATED.

A pleasing ceremony was performed at the usual parade of the Rugby V.T.C on Sunday afternoon, when Lt-Col F F Johnstone, as Commanding Officer of the 2nd Batt. Warwickshire Volunteer Regt, presented Driver F Davies, R.F.A, of Hillmorton, with the Military Medal, which had been awarded him for distinguished conduct in the field under shell fire. The ceremony took place at the Howitzer Battery Drill Hall, in the presence of a fairly large company. Driver Davies was accompanied by his mother, sisters and friends, and there were also present Lieut C J Newman, Mr H Yates and Mr T Ringrose (members of the Rugby Urban District Council).

Before making the presentation Lieut-Col F F Johnstone addressed the company, and said wherever such a presentation could be made it was customary to make it before a parade of soldiers, so that the example set by one brave man could be followed by others when the opportunity arose ; and he had, therefore, taken the occasion of that parade to present Driver Davies with the medal. He then read the official description of the deed for which the medal had been awarded, from which it appeared that on April 9, 1917, a shell fell on the ammunition wagon in front of the wagon Driver Davies was driving, and a comrade, Driver Hook, was pinned under his horse. Driver Davies’s horse was also wounded, and fell on Hook. Davies was pitched into the road, but he got up and went to the assistance of his friend, and got him into a place of safety. Col Johnstone then pinned the medal on the breast of the brave young fellow, and having shaken hands with him, continued: “ The attributes of a good soldier are five, and all commence with the letter c, viz, courage, commonsense, cheerfulness, cleanliness, and cunning. He thought they might congratulate Driver Davies on possessing most of these and upon having done his duty as a right down good, brave young man and soldier, a credit to his battery and also to the town from which he came. He was again leaving for the front on Tuesday night, and they all wished him all good luck and a safe was return.”

Hearty cheers having been given for Driver Davies, his mother was presented to Col Johnstone, who shook her warmly by the hand, saying: “ It is the women like you, the women with sons like this, who are winning this War for us.”

Before joining the Army Driver Davies was employed in the tinsmiths’ shop the B.T.H.

NAPTON.

MUCH sympathy is extended Mr & Mrs Frederick Sheasby, sen, of Napton, in the death of their youngest son, Horace, at the age of 19 years. He was wounded in France on December 30th and taken to hospital, but never regained consciousness. He lived with Mr Mushing, of Lower Farm, Napton, for four years, and was a most trustworthy servant and cheerful with everyone.

RUGBY NOT A MUNITION AREA.

At a meeting of the Rugby Food Control Committee on Monday evening Mr Geo Cooke, a representative of the Rugby Trades and Labour Council, stated that the Ministry of Munitions had refused to create Rugby a munition area, which would have had the effect of preventing the eviction under any circumstances of men engaged on munition work.

THE FOOD SHORTAGE.

During the week-end the meat and margarine queues were again in evidence. The supply of margarine was smaller than usual, and many bitter complaints were made of the inadequacy of the purchases, which were only secured in many instances after dreary waits in the cold and slush. On Friday morning an angry crowd besieged one grocer’s shop under the mistaken belief that a quantity of margarine was in stock. The Executive Officer, Mr F M Burton, was summoned to the scene, and he explained the situation to the people. In order to minimise the disappointment of the crowd as far as possible, the proprietor decided dispose of his stock of jam, and for about an hour Mr Burton was busily engaged handing out the pots to the people, who subsequently dispersed in “ sweeter ” humour.

The butchers’ shops were the centres of interest on Saturday, and the shop-keepers and their assistants spent a very anxious time. Several of the traders worked till late Friday night cutting up their meat into the very smallest quantities, and even those who were lucky enough to be supplied only received infinitesimal amounts. One large establishment, containing 70 persons, was allowed 17lbs ; while many other large establishments had to be content with even less than this, in one case the supply working out at 1½ozs per person, including bone. The situation was rendered more serious by the total disappearance of rabbits, which, it was noted, coincided with the fixing of the maximum price, and all the shops were cleared out at a very early hour. The meat shortage caused a run on the fishmongers’ establishments, and small herrings, kippers, and bloaters were eagerly snapped up at 6d each, other fish fetching proportionately high prices.

NO SUGAR FOR JAM MAKING.—The Chairman of the Royal Commission on the Sugar Supply (Sir Charles Bathurst, M.P) desires to make it known that, as it will probably be impossible during the present year to make special issues of sugar to private fruit growers for the making of jam for their own home consumption, the latter would well advised to begin saving as much sugar as possible out of their own domestic rations for the above purpose. Such saving will not constitute hoarding.

POTATO BREAD.—A general notice on the use of potatoes in the manufacture of bread removes any limit to the percentage of potatoes that may be used in the manufacture of bread. As it is essential that such a general use is secured in order to conserve cereal supplies, it is the intention of the Ministry to issue at an early date an Order making the use of a certain percentage of potatoes compulsory, and as such an Order would apply to bakers and domestic bread makers alike, all makers of bread are advised at once make such arrangements as will enable them to comply with the requirements of the Order when issued.

DR DAVID’S THREAT TO CLOSE RUGBY SCHOOL.

The meat question was discussed fully at a meeting of the Local Food Control Committee, presided over by Mr T A Wise on Monday evening, when it was intimated that unless more meat could be provided, Dr David had threatened to close Rugby School.

Mr Burton (the Executive Officer) reported that there was a very serious shortage of meat in the town last week and the inspectors of three of the foreign meat shops in the town called upon him, and stated that if they were granted permits they could send more than their 50 per cent. of meat to their shops. He accordingly granted the permits.—This action was approved.—Mr Burton also reported that that afternoon he had received an application for a similar permit from one of firms, and he had promised to bring the matter before the committee. The position locally that day was that the Rugby urban and rural butchers were 17 beasts short of their 50 per cent., and the town butchers alone only got 51 sheep out of the 108 required. It was, therefore, much worse than last week.—It was decided to grant the permit, and to give the Executive Officer discretionary powers to grant others which he might deem necessary.—Mr Reeve asked how the English butchers stood if they could get extra supplies ? He could have sold more sheep last week, and he thought if the foreign butchers were allowed this privilege the English vouchers should be treated similarly provided they could get the sheep. He had eight sheep which he was willing to kill if he could do so.—The executive officer said he failed to see how the English butchers could do this, because they were limited as to their supplies, which have to be purchased through the auctioneers.—Mr Reeve said he bought these sheep several weeks ago ; but the Executive Officer reiterated his opinion that the sheep would have to be sold through the auctioneers.—Mr Reeve said he should not send them, because if he did, and he bought them, he would have to pay 3s 6d on each of them, he would also have to pay an additional 1s 6d because he was the vendor.—Mr Stevenson suggested that they write to Lord Rhondda to have the matter cleared up.—Mr Reeve also expressed the opinion that the Rugby butchers should be allowed to have their 50 per cent before other butchers received anything. In the past the big towns had largely relied on foreign meat, and now they were trying to get some of the supplies which should belong to other towns.—Mr Gay enquired whether live stock was being killed in Rugby and the carcasses sent out of the town ?—Mr Reeve replied that he had been in the habit of killing a number of beasts and sheep each week, and sending the carcasses away ; but he could not do this last week because of the shortage of meat.—Mr Burton : Then that is to the benefit of Rugby.—Mr Reeve differed from that view, and pointed out that when he sent meat away he retained all the offal, which people were very pleased to purchase.—Mr Gay thought it unfair that the town should be limited as to its supplies and for a portion of these to be sent away.—The Chairman, however, pointed out that it was Mr Reeves’ duty to continue to send meat away if he could get it. The government’s idea was that all customers should receive 50 per cent. of the supplies they were getting in October.—Mr Burton said, strictly speaking, a butcher who had been selling wholesale could not refuse to sell, otherwise the aggrieved firm would have a claim upon him. He pointed out that the foreign meat companies were in a different position to the English butchers because they received their meat frozen, and did not have to go into the open market to buy it.—Mr Cooke enquired if the additional supply could be distributed amongst the English Butchers ; but Mr Burton replied in the negative. He added that he had impressed upon the managers the necessity of cutting down their customers to 50 per cent., and not to serve them with the full 100 per cent.

THE B.T.H CANTEEN.

It was reported that, as a result of several consultations with the auctioneer vice-chairman (Mr W Howkins), the manager of the B.T.H canteen, and two other butchers, the permit of a butcher had been increased by 500lbs per week, so that he could supply meat to the B.T.H Canteen. This allowed 2ozs (uncooked) for each meal. The Executive Officer, however, understood that the butcher in question was unable to obtain this amount.—The Chairman stated that the manager of the canteen was very dissatisfied with the supplies, and complained that he could not serve all the dinners required. He (the Chairman) fully explained the situation, and pointed out that with the present shortage of meat they could not expect to get their full supply. He asked if it was expected that the B.T.H was to receive all the meat in Rugby, and other people were to go without.—Mr Mellor pointed out that in the staff restaurant they were having two meatless days per week, and there was a feeling that all the meat was being sent to the canteen in the works.

The caterer to Messrs Willans & Robinson’s also wrote complaining of the inadequate supplies of meat ; and in view of the increasing number of people dining at the works, asking that a local butcher be given a permit to supply them with 300lbs daily.—The butcher in question informed the committee that he had not accepted the offer to supply them, because he did not wish to take the trade from a colleague.—The whole question was referred to the Food Controller.

With reference to the Chester Street communal kitchen, the Divisional Commissioner wrote stating that such institutions deserve every encouragement, and authorising the committee to use their discretion as to the amount of meat to be apportioned for their use.—Miss A V Fenwick wrote stating that their requirements were 50lbs of meat daily, 10s worth of bones for soup, and 6lbs of lard or fat per week.—It was decided to give a permit for this amount.

RUGBY SCHOOL MEAT SUPPLY.

The Auctioneer-Chairman for the District wrote that he had received a complaint from Mr David, stating that the ration of meat proposed to be allowed to Rugby School was not nearly enough, and threatening, if he could not get a bigger supply, to close the School. He had wired to the Food Controller on the matter, and the only satisfaction he could get was a wire as follows :—“ Refer Headmaster of Rugby School to Food Control Committee.” It seemed to him a serious matter, and he thought the school should not be closed. He asked the committee to see what could be done, and suggested that they should see the Headmaster and ascertain what his minimum requirements were.—In a letter Dr David said he had not complained that the ration of meat supplied to the School was not nearly enough. If as he was told the ration was 2lbs, it was, in his opinion, sufficient, and even if it was not so it was not for them to complain. His complaint was that the four School butchers were not allowed to buy sufficient meat to supply anything like this ration. He therefore asked that their purchasing permits should be altered so as to allow them to send the requisite amount within that scale. With this they were perfectly prepared to be content. He could not say the minimum amount that was required.—The Chairman stated that they had sent round to all the schools and boarding-houses to ascertain what meat they received in October, so that by that means they could have the basis of their normal supplies. Returns had been received from 18 schools concerning 1,086 persons, and the meat consumption was 2,948½lbs. Some, however, had included pork pies, sausages, brawn, rabbits, game, &c, while others had not. This worked out at an average of about 2¾lbs per head per week, and he took it that the butchers could not now supply anything like that quantity.—Mr Reeve : It is impossible at the present time.—Mr Stevenson : That is more than the majority of people get in the town.—The Chairman : Under the rationing scheme boys are entitled to 3lbs of meat per week. As a munition and educational centre, he thought they should be entitled to more meat, and it was unanimously decided to support Dr David in his efforts to obtain more for the town.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR.
NOTICE TO CORRESPONDENTS.
FAIRNESS TO ALL.—Too late for insertion this week, but you will see by reports of Food Control Committee meeting in this issue that a rationing scheme is to put in force in Rugby.

DEATHS.

FEVERS.—In loving memory of WILLIAM, the eldest son of Mr. & Mrs. Fevers, of Woolscott, near Rugby, who was killed in action on April 11, 1917. Aged 24.
“ Oh ! how sadly we shall miss him,
There will be a vacant place.
We shall never forget his footsteps,
Or his dear familiar face.”
—From his loving Father, Mother, Sister & Brother.

IN MEMORIAM.

CHATER.—In loving memory of my dear son, Pte. W. T. CHATER, who was killed at Mesopotamia on January 23, 1917.—From Father, Mother, Brothers & Sisters.

COLLIER.—In loving memory of AMY ELIZABETH, wife of Samuel Collier, who passed away on January 20, 1914 “ At rest.”—Also of WILLIAM CHARLES COLLIER, eldest son of above, who was killed in action in France on October 9, 1917 ; aged 39 years.

McDOWELL.—In ever-loving memory of WILLIAM McDOWELL, 1st Inniskilling Fusiliers, who was killed in action on January 27, 1917.
“ There is a link death cannot sever ;
Love and remembrance last for ever.”
—Sadly missed by his Wife.

19th Jan 1918. Visits of Workmen to the Front

VISITS OF WORKMEN TO THE FRONT.

The Rugby District Committee of the Amalgamated Society of Engineers have, through their Executive Council, been invited by the Ministry of Munitions to appoint a representative to visit the Front, in view of the educational value of such visits. The committee have replied to the Ministry, declining the invitation in the following terms:—“ After over three years of war the committee believe that the engineers of this district are as conversant with all the horrors of the ghastly business as they consider they need be. Contact with those who have had experience of the battle front and actual experience of the privations at home are considered sufficient from the view-point of ‘ educational value.’ The committee are much more concerned with the education of their children in the arts of peace than their own education in the bloody horrors war. They decline to be a party to the utilisation of public funds and time in the manner suggested in the invitation, and declare that what workman want is not the opportunity to visit the Front, but the opportunity to meet representative fellow-workers of all belligerent nations in order to endeavour to arrive at a common understanding with a view to stopping the slaughter and securing an immediate and lasting peace.”

HEAVY SNOWFALL.

During the night of Tuesday, Wednesday the heaviest snowfall this winter occurred. The surface was covered to the depth of 9 or 10 inches, and the branches of trees and shrubs were thickly covered with snow, which weighed them down. The countryside presented a most beautiful appearance in the bright sunshine on Wednesday ; but traffic on the roads was greatly impeded. Prompt efforts were made by the Town Surveyor to get the snow removed from the streets in the centre the town, but owing to lack of labour, &c, it was quite impossible to do so much in this direction as in previous years, but a great deal was cleared out. There was another fall of snow early on Thursday, which added another inch or so to the total downfall.

A thaw, with rain, set in on Thursday. The country mails have been delayed each day from two to four hours, and the Southam mail was “ hung up ” for a considerable time at Bilton on two occasions.

This is the heaviest fall of snow experienced in this district since April 24-26, 1908, when the measurements were 14 inches.

DUNCHURCH AVENUE TO BE PRESERVED.

The Committee appointed by the Warwickshire County Council to confer with the Duke of Buccleuch as to the preservation of the Avenue on the London Road had an interview with his Grace last week, The Duke put forward an alternative scheme by which the Avenue may be preserved, he being as anxious as the public that it should remain. The scheme will be duly considered by the committee.

LOCAL PEERS AND WOMEN’S SUFFRAGE.—Several peers well known in Warwickshire took place in the division in the House of Lords on Thursday last week, when Woman Suffrage was voted upon, and carried by 63 votes. Those in favour included of the suffrage included the Earl of Denbigh, the Bishop of Worcester, and Lord Willoughby de Broke.

RUGBY’S SUBSCRIPTION TO WAR BONDS for the week ended January 12th was £3,170. making the total for 15 weeks £73,650. The weekly quota is £10,800. The total for Leamington is £95,635 ; Nuneaton, £13,565 ; Warwick, £44,135 ; Banbury, £57,259.

TRAVELLING WITHOUT A TICKET.—At Coventry, on Monday, Levi Haxby, 75 Avenue Road, New Bilton, was summoned for travelling on the railway on November 28th last without having previously paid his fare and with intent to avoid payment. Defendant admitted the offence, and said he was very sorry. He did not know what possessed him to it. It should not occur again. Fined 40s, or 28 days.

TWO BOYS MISSING.

Two boys—one Arthur Frederick Brewin, aged 10, and the other George Alfred Catlin, of Leicester, son and nephew respectively of Mr A H Brewin. of 122 Abbey Street—went for a walk towards Clifton about 9 a.m on December 27th, and up to the present have not been heard of. It is supposed they were seen crossing Clifton Mill Farm about 11 a.m same day.

Arthur Frederick Brewin (10), dark complexion, was wearing brown and black tweed coat and vest, darker knickers, laced boots and cap.

George Alfred Catlin (14), dark, was wearing light grey suit, with striped blue and black football jersey under it, laced boots and cap.

The police were advised same night, but nothing has been heard of the lads.

Any information would be gladly welcomed by A H Brewin at 122 Abbey Street.

LOCAL WAR NOTES.

ROYAL RED CROSS FOR A RUGBY NURSE.
Sister M F Fell, of the Territorial Nursing Service, and daughter of Mr E T Fell, High Street, has been awarded the Royal Red Cross for valuable services with the Armies in France. Sister Fell has also served in England and Malta, and for the last six months has been in a surgical team in the Clearing Stations at Ypres and Cambrai.

Lieut “ Pat ” Maloney, of Ontario and the R.F.C, who is recovering from wounds in a hospital near Hyde Park, takes short walks with the aid a stick made from part of a Boche ’plane. “ Pat ” was well known and himself very popular at Lilbourne during his stay there from April to September last year.

Bombardier Hessey, R.F.A, of 68 Victoria Street, New Bilton, recently died of pneumonia in Ripon Hospital. Previous to joining up in February, 1915, he was employed as painter and decorator by Messrs Foster and Dicksee. He had already served in the Navy for 14 years, and was invalided out. Being anxious to “ do his bit,” again, he with some difficulty got accepted for the army, and in due course went out to France, where he was twice wounded. In February, 1916, he went out to German East Africa, where he served about twenty months. He contracted malarial fever and was sent home invalided in August last, and subsequently complications set in which culminated in his death at the age of 37. His remains were brought to New Bilton and interred in the new Cemetery with military honours.

Lieut C A Hall, 1/8th London Regiment, son-on-law of Mr W T Smallwood, 14 Victoria Street, has been awarded the M.C, and has also been promoted to the rank of Captain.

The name of Capt G H D Coates (temporary Lieut-Col), of the Royal Warwickshire Regiment, is among those which have been brought to the notice Genera Sir E Allenby for distinguished services with the Egyptian Expeditionary Force.

Mrs Banner, 178 Murray Road, has received news that her cousin, Pte William Milne, of the Worcestershire Regiment, eldest son of the late Sergt T Milne, instructor at Rugby School, was killed in action on January 1st. He was an old St Matthew’s boy, and leaves a widow and two children.

Corpl Yates, who married at St Peter’s Church, Rugby, on Wednesday, is an old “ E ” Company man. He met with an accident while on manoeuvres, which disabled him for service. After receiving his discharge papers he re-joined, but has been accepted for sedentary service only. Sergt Yates, his father, volunteered, and has been out since the early months of the War and had some narrow escapes, being on one occasion several days in the German lines and reported missing.

CAPT A W FIELD (O.R) BELIEVED KILLED.

Mr Edward Field, clerk to the Warwickshire County Council, has received information of the presumed death of his son, Capt Archibald Field, R.F.C. The sad intelligence was received on Tuesday in a letter from his Major, which stated that the Captain was shot down over the enemy lines by hostile machines whilst he was taking photographs on January 9th. His machine was seen to fall to pieces, and he is missing and believed killed. Capt Field was educated at Orwell House, Felixstowe, and Rugby. He saw much of the fighting throughout Flanders before the first Battle of Ypres, being one of the first members of the British Army to enter Ypres. The Major of his Squadron writes that his loss to the Squadron is a great one, as he has been a long time with them, and had done some splendid work. Capt Field’s three brothers are still serving.

ANOTHER PRISONER OF WAR.

Gunner H Maule, R.G.A, is a prisoner of war in Germany, interned at Munster i/W, Rennbahn. He was captured on November 30th. For nearly 10 years Gunner Maule worked in the quarry at the Rugby Cement Works. He had been in France over 12 months. His home is at Long Lawford. Mr J R Barker, hon secretary of the Rugby Prisoners of War Help Committee, has arranged for the standard food parcels and bread to be despatched to this man.

PRESENTATION OF MEDAL.

Col F F Johnstone has been deputed to present the Military Medal to Driver Ward, of Hillmorton, for conspicuous conduct in the field. The presentation will be made at a parade of the Rugby Volunteers at the Howitzer Battery Headquarters on Sunday next, 20th inst., at 2.45 p.m, when all friends of Driver Ward and the public generally are cordially invited to be present.

LONG ITCHINGTON.
MISSING.—Mrs Edward Ayres has now received official information that her eldest son, Pte Edward Ayres, R.W.R. has been posted as missing.

VOLUNTEER SHOOTING.—At the parade of the “ B ” (Rugby) Company of Volunteers on Sunday last the cup and prize given by the Officer commanding were presented. The cup for the best score for last year in the two stages of regulation shooting on the open range was secured by Corpl Seymour, and the prize for the best score by a man qualified to shoot on the open range after March 18th last fell to Pte Paulin. Capt Fuller impressed on the men the great importance of the use of the rifle and good shooting.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR.
FOOD AT RUGBY SCHOOL.
To the editor of the Advertiser.

SIR.—In order to prevent misconception, I should be glad if you will publish our arrangements in the past and our intentions for the future in regard to supply of food for Rugby School. Since February, 19170, the boys have been restricted by the desire of the Controller to an average of 5lbs of bread and 3lbs of meat per week. In December last a scale of rations was issued by the Ministry of Food for boy of 13-18 years of a age as follows :—Bread and flour, 6lbs ;cereals, 24ozs ;meat, 2lbs ; margarine, &c, 5ozs. This scale has since been withdrawn, and it is not likely that the quantities will be increased. Until it is re-issued we propose to abide by it, but we do not expect at present to obtain the full quantity of meat.

The purchase by the boys of extra food has for a long time been restricted to a minimum, and no food parcels are allowed to be sent from home. I hope that this statement will make it clear that we neither desire nor receive more than our share of local or other supplies.—I am, Sir, &c, A A DAVID.

THE FOOD SHORTAGE.

The shortage of meat was again felt locally during the week-end, although the situation was by no means so acute as it was reported to be in other towns. Many householders took the wise precaution of ordering their Sunday joint early in the week. These people received first consideration, and several butchers kept their doors closed till the middle of the morning to enable the depleted staffs to deal with these orders. Many who had neglected to take this precaution experienced considerable difficulty in obtaining supplies, and several of the shops were besieged by queues of housewives, but by the time the shops were closed again most people had received a supply of some sort. As may be supposed, every scrap of meat was quickly cleared out, even bones being bought eagerly.

The situation on Saturday was aggravated by a shortage of fats, of which smaller suppliers than usual were received. The result was that many were able to obtain even a small quantity, and householders of all classes had to be content with dry bread for Sunday tea.

Beef was very scarce at the cattle market on Monday, and the butchers were only allowed one-half of their present requirements, which was equal to one-quarter of their October sales. The cattle available were divided between butchers from Rugby and other parts of the county, and the local butchers will have to depend on other markets to make up their full quantity allowed under the latest order. There was an extra supply of sheep, however, and several butchers made up for the beef shortage by increased purchases of mutton. The new system of grading mutton for sale came into force on Monday, and its operation should prove very advantageous to the butchers.

The butchers are again reminding the public by advertisement in another column that, till further notice, their shops will be closed on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

Notwithstanding the slushy and uncomfortable state of the streets, queues were to be seen at most of the butchers’ and provision dealers’ shops yesterday (Friday) morning, and stocks were quickly cleared on.

UTILITY POULTRY-KEEPERS are invited to meetings on Monday (see advertisement), when Capt Peirson-Webber will give addresses in connection with the formation of a local society.

DEATHS.

HESSEY.—On December 17th, in Ripon Military Hospital, Bombardier W. F. HESSEY, R.F.A., of 68 Victoria Street, New Bilton, of pneumonia ; aged 37.

12th Jan 1918. Rugby Hero Decorated

RUGBY HERO DECORATED.

A pleasing ceremony was perfumed, in the Lower School field on Sunday morning, when, in the presence of several thousand people, including the members of the Discharged Sailors’ and Soldiers’ Association, Lance-Corpl Enticott, Oxon and Bucks L.I, son of Mr J Enticott, of 60 Union Street, was decorated by Lieut-Col F F Johnstone with the Military Medal and bar and the D.C.M.

Before making the presentation Lieut-Col Johnstone said it gave him very great pleasure to be amongst soldiers again, and more especially to be amongst men who had served their country and taken their part in this terrible War. Many of those on parade had been wounded, and they would all be very pleased to see those decorations conferred upon a man who had behaved most gallantly in the War. He noticed that several present had also distinguished themselves, and had been awarded the D.C.M, and no one would accord greater praise to Lance-Corpl Enticott than those men who had also conducted themselves well. Lance-Corpl Enticott had most conspicuously distinguished himself on several occasions, and had won the Military Medal for “ conspicuous bravery on the field and dressing the wounded and heavy shell fire on September 15, 1916, on the Somme.” He was awarded a bar to this medal for “ conspicuous conduct on May 3, 1916, in the Battle of Warnecourt, for dressing the wounded and getting them away under heavy shell fire.” He was also warded the D.C.M for, on August 23rd, at Hooge, going through two barrages—our own and the German—into a wood to fetch out the wounded and getting them away under heavy fire on August 24, 1917. Having pinned the decorations on Lance-Corpl Enticott’s breast, Lieut-Col Johnstone reminded them that nn man could have greater love than he who was willing to risk his life or give it up for his friend ; and although he was glad to say that Lance-Corpl Enticott had not given up his life, he had risked it a number of times. They were glad to see the return of such a noble soldier ; they trusted that he would have good luck in the future and a happy life ; and as he had to go back to the front, they also hoped that he would be protected and brought back safely to Rugby.

Lance-Corpl Enticott, in a brief, soldierly speech, returned thanks for his warm reception. He hoped soon to be living amongst them again, and that the War would finish during the coming year.

Hearty cheers were then given for Lance-Corpl Enticott, after which the company dispersed.

Lance-Corpl Enticott is an old St Matthew’s boy and a former member of the 1st Rugby Company Boys’ Brigade, and his old Captain, Mr W F Wood, was present during the ceremony.

LIEUT. NEVILLE HANDS AWARDED THE MILITARY CROSS.

The latest list of recipients of the Military Cross contains the name of Lieut Neville Hands, R.W.R, second son of Mr & Mrs F E Hands, Sheep Street. Lieut Hands, who is an Old Laurentian, enlisted in the 7th R.W.R as a private, and after a period of active service he was given a commission in March, 1916. He returned to France in the following September, and after taking part in the fighting on the Somme, he was appointed sniping and intelligence officer. He is now in charge of a Sniping Corps in Italy.

D.C.M FOR ANOTHER ST MATTHEW’S OLD BOY.

The last list of awards of the Distinguished Conduct Medal for gallantry in the field includes the name of Corpl W E Stay, Royal Garrison Artillery, son of Mr F Stay, 99 Grosvenor Road, Rugby. Corpl Stay is a former scholar of Matthew’s School, and the fourth old boy of that school to obtain this honour, previous recipients being the late Sergt W Bale, Lance-Corpl J Enticott, and Pte A Norman.

LOCAL WAR NOTES.

Lieut W S Stebbing, R.W.R, has been recently mentioned in Sir Douglas Haig’s despatches for gallantry on the Western Front.

Bombardier A C Dandridge, son of Mr & Mrs C Dandridge. Railway Terrace, has been mentioned in despatches for distinguished service in the field. Before joining the Colours he was employed by the Urban District Council. He is an “ old boy ” of the St Matthew’s School.

The death occurred at Genoa Hospital, Italy, on Christmas Day, of Pte William Murphy, 3rd Royal Warwicks, eldest son of Mr and Mrs Wm Murphy, of 101 South Street, Rugby, The deceased, who was 19 years of age, enlisted eighteen months ago on attaining the age of 18. He served in France, from whence he was invalided for a time, but returned to France, and thence to Italy.

Pte A W Kinzett, M.G.C, son of Mr & Mrs E Kinzett, Wolverton Fields, Stratford-on-Avon, died of wound received in action on December 2nd. He was a native of Dunchurch, and was educated at the Village School. Formerly employed at the Daimler Works, Coventry, he joined the Royal Warwicks in June, 1915. He went to France in the following April, and was invalided home in December, He was subsequently transferred to the M.G.C. and returned to France last April.

BILTON.
ROLL OF HONOUR.—Referring in the Parish Magazine to the death of Pte Chris Eccles, Royal Warwicks, at the front, the Rector Writes :— “ The memory of him will live on. A Bilton man, a familiar figure, a kindly disposition, and a generous heart made him well known to all in the village, while he was no less well known in the Parish Church, where he fulfilled the duties of a sidesman with diligence and affection. We miss him greatly.
Pte Ernest Cox is now reported missing.

MARTON.
OUR SOLDIERS.—Pte G Johnson, who was severely wounded in the arm and thigh and has been in hospital in France for some months, passed away on Friday last week. He was 35 years of age, and leaves a widow and one child.

We recently announced that Lance-Corpl Harwood F Hancox had been transferred from his prison camp in Germany to Switzerland, and this week Mr J R Barker, hon secretary of the Rugby Prisoners of War Help Committee, has received the following letter from him, dated December 28, 1917, in which he says : —“ I now take the pleasure of answering your kind letter, hoping you had a happy Christmas, as I can assure I and my comrades in Interlaken enjoyed ours. We had a good dinner and supper. After supper a concert was given, which was very good, our artistes being British soldiers, Canadians, and Australians. In the interval was the distribution of her Majesty Queen Mary’s gifts, also cigarettes from the English colony at Geneva. We had three quarters of an hour for dancing, which, after three years behind barbed wire, was a great treat to us. I think from the time your committee was first formed for the Rugby district I received your parcels fairly regularly. Of course, sometimes I might miss a week, and then got two sent on the next week, as I went from Soltau Lager to Lichtenhorst Lager in March, 1915, and all our parcels had to be addressed to Soltau for some time, as that was the headquarter camp. Afterwards we got them addressed direct to Lichtenhorst, where I remained till March, 1916, when I was sent on a farm with five more, but we always had our parcels sent through every week, and they were mostly in a good condition. I do not think I had more than four or five damaged. I am still getting the parcels sent on from Germany to me. I must thank you, the Rugby Committee, and all helpers for the great kindness the prisoners have received. If it had not been for the help in food and clothing there would not be many alive to tell the tale. You would not believe the number of Russians that have died through starvation. I was never with any Rugby men after I left Munster Lager. We had about 150 men join us here to-day from Germany, and they looked as if they had seen very hard times. I now close with best wishes to you and your committee. Wishing all ‘ A Happy New Year.’”

MORE WAR PRISONERS.

Corpl F Evans, 11th Rifle Brigade, whose home is at 13 James Street, Rugby, has written home to say he is a prisoner of war and interned at Wahn, but will shortly be removed to another camp.

Corpl S T Smith, K.R.R.C, is a prisoner of war in Germany, inturned at Dulmen. Corpl Smith’s home is at Barby, where he worked for Mr Thomas Pittom, and was also in the choir of Barby Church.

Sergt R G Elkington, K.R.R.C, son of Mrs W Elkington, Long Lawford, is a prisoner of war prisoner of war in Germany, inturned at Dulmen. He worked at Rugby Gas Works. He joined up in September, 1914, had been in France 2½ years. In April last he was awarded the Military Medal for great courage and personal bravery in the storming of the village of Metz.

Corpl J C Barclay, North Staffs Regt, who was recently reported prisoner of war, has now been transferred from Wahn to Dulmen.

These men have all been handed over to the care of the Rugby Prisoners of War Committee, and the Hon Secretary, Mr J R Barker, is arranging for the dispatch of standard food parcels and bread to them.

In addition to Bandsman Rowe and L-Corpl Harwood, F Hancox, Pte P Gamble Davis, of Dunchurch, and Pte P Mace, of Hillmorton, have also been transferred to Switzerland, where they will be well cared for.

Pte C Bragg, Royal Warwicks, whose home is at Brinklow, has succeeded in escaping from his internment camp in Germany, and has arrived in England.

Pte Bert Holmes, Royal Warwicks, son of Mrs Everington, 47 Wood Street, Rugby, has been reported missing since November 20th. Apprenticed at Willans & Robinson’s, he joined up immediately on the outbreak of war, and had been in France since November, 1914. He was last seen wounded and lying in a shell hole. A search party sent out failed to find him, and it is believed he is a prisoner of war. Holmes was an old Murray School boy.

The number of men now on the Rugby list who still have to be provided for is 77, the cost being £213 13s 6d every four weeks.

BRITISH HEROES OF THE AIR.

Of our airmen on the Western Front the names of two who have met with remarkable success recur constantly in conversation among flying men in France, at home, and even overseas. One is Capt J Byford McCudden, M.C., of London. So far he has brought down 34 German machines.

The other man is Capt Philip Fletcher Fullard, D.S.O, M.C. He is a fine, upstanding young fellow, who loves every form of sport. Next to flying, football is his favourite recreation and in a game in which he took part in France a few weeks ago he sustained a fractured leg. The accident necessitated a stay in a London hospital from which he has just been discharged, and checked his record of air triumphs.

Capt Fullard went fresh from school into an Officers’ Training Corps. He has flown in France for about six months, and during that time has brought down 42 enemy machines and three balloons. In a single day he brought down four German aeroplanes—his record day’s “ bag.” On another occasion he and another airman brought down seven enemy machines before breakfast, Fullard accounting for three of them. Up to the middle of October the squadron to which he belongs had brought down 200 enemy machines, and their number now stands at about 250. The outstanding feature of Capt Fullard’s record is the few casualties his “ flight ” has suffered. For three months he worked with the same flight of six pilots without a casualty among them, and in that time they brought down more enemy machines than any other flight in France. He has a narrow escape when fighting a German two-seater, his goggles being shot away from his eyes. The Very lights in his machine caught fire and set the woodwork of the aeroplane alight, but he managed to get his burning machine back to the British lines. Capt Fullard respects the fighting capacity of the Boche airman, and considers they are good in a tight corner.

Capt Fullard, is the son of the late Mr Thomas Fletcher Fullard, of Hatfied, and Mrs Fullard, who now lives at Rugby. He was educated at Norwich Grammar School, and in 1915 joined the Inns of Court Officers’ Training Corps. Passing high in his examination, he was offered a commission in the Royal Irish Fusiliers, but was selected as suitable for flying work, and joined the Royal Flying Corps. He went to Upavon, and was given a post as instructor there. In April, 1917, he was sent to the front. He has gained the D.S.O and the Military Cross, with a bar.

FOOD CONTROL.

RUGBY AND CRICK RURAL DISTRICT.

At the first meeting of the Rugby and Crick Joint Committee on the 22nd ult, there were present : Mrs Anderson, Mrs Draper, Mrs Neilson, Mrs Peet, Mrs Townsend, Rev R S Mitchison, and Messrs A Appleby, J Cripps, J C Harrison, H Tarbox, A T Watson, and W Woodward.

H Tarbox was unanimously appointed Chairman of the Joint Committee, and Mr F Fellows Executive Officer and Enforcement Officer for the joint district.

A circular was received giving details of the Milk Priority Scheme which the Government propose should be adopted in the districts where there is a shortage of milk, and consideration of this matter was adjourned so that each member might receive a print. A Finance Committee was appointed, consisting of the Chairman and Messrs A Appleby and J Cripps.

Applications were received from bakers in the district for a supply of potatoes (for use in bread) and as the applications were from a very small proportion of bakers, it was resolved that the Commissioner for the district to be asked whether there was any likelihood of the use of potatoes in bread being made compulsory upon the bakers in this area. It was pointed out that this is a fairly large potato-growing district, and a good proportion were of varieties that would not keep, and it would be better for the potatoes to be used in this way rather than they should be allowed to bad and waste. The Executive Officer was directed to arrange for supplies of potatoes to the bakers who applied for them.

A number of certificates were granted to retailers of meat, and the Executive Officer pointed out that apparently these applications were from shopkeepers who sold sausages.

A number of letters were received from the Secretary of Food Economy Sub-committee in the district asking for leaflets and for arrangements to be made for speakers to address meetings, and for cookery demonstrations. The Executive Officer promised to send leaflets, and to ask Mr W E Lovsey, of Birmingham, the Assistant Divisional Commissioner, if he would come into this area and address meetings.

The question of the distribution in the Rural area of margarine commandeered in the Urban District was fully discussed, and the Committee is taking up this matter with the Urban authorities.

THE MEAT SHORTAGE.

BUTCHERS’ SUPPLIES TO BE CUT DOWN BY HALF.

A meeting of butchers of the town and district to consider a new order concerning the supplies of meat was held at the Benn Buildings on Tuesday morning. Mr H Tarbox presided, and there was a good attendance.

A memorandum from the Divisional Commissioner was read to the effect that in future all meat retailers will only be allowed to receive 50 per cent. of the quantity sold by them in October last, and pointing out that particulars of the weekly meat supplies required by butchers in the district should be forwarded to the Auctioneer-Chairman of the Cattle Purchase Committee, but any serious complaints or difficulties should be reported to the Live Stocks Sub-Commissioner for the County, Mr H F Knightley, Sheep Street, Stratford-on-Avon. Dead meat, either home-killed or frozen, hitherto purchased from wholesalers, must continue to be obtained through the same channel as far as possible. “ It seems probable,” the Commissioner continued, “ that Local Food Control Committees will be required to take an active part in meat distribution, and if the matter is one that affects your area to any great extent I suggest that you make arrangements accordingly.”

A copy of the form which each retailer has to fill up weekly was also produced.

Mr Reeve drew attention to the fact that the dead cattle did not yield the percentage of meat that it should do, and instead of paying 1s 2½d per lb for their meat, they were really paying 1s 4¼d ; but the Chairman pointed out that the new regulations were to ensure that they obtained a supply of meat. It had nothing to do with the price.—Mr Reeve : But there is no use for us to stop in our shops to sell meat at a loss, as we are doing at present. It is hard to think that we have got to cut meat at a loss to feed the public. Sheep are 2s per lb ; and how are we to get a living at that price ? He pointed out that some butchers only had one small beast per week ; and if, in consequence of this supply being cut down by half they had to close their shops, would other butchers be allowed more meat to supply his customers ?—Mr Burton replied in the affirmative.—In reply to Mr Waite, the Chairman said if the butchers neglected to make their returns they would probably find themselves without any meat.—The butchers present, however, expressed themselves as willing to do all they could in the matter ; and two committees to assist the Executive Officers were appointed, viz : Urban District, Messrs H V Wait and C W Clayson ; Rural District, Messrs Wooley (Dunchurch) and B Page (Wolston). Mr A H Reeve was nominated to receive beasts consigned to the Rugby butchers by the Authorities.

SOLDIER’S WONDERFUL ESCAPE.—An Army Sergeant travelling on the Euston to Scotland express on Friday evening in last week had a wonderful escape from death. When the train, which was travelling at about seventy miles an hour, was near Stow tunnel, a few miles south of Weedon, the man accidentally fell out. The accident was reported by some comrades on arriving at Rugby, and Night Stationmaster Walton immediately left with a search train and an ambulance party. In the meantime the soldier had regained consciousness and had walked to the Heyford signal-box. He was conveyed to Rugby and taken to the Hospital of St Cross, where his injuries, which consisted mainly of severe cuts on the head, were attended to.

SAVE THE MEN !
THE Chemico BODY SHIELD is BULLET-PROOF.
SEND ONE TO YOUR MAN AT THE FRONT.
Call and see the many testimonials of lives saved
SOLE AGENT: CHAS. T. TEW, TAILOR, 7 Regent Street, Rugby.

DEATHS.

MURPHY.—In loving memory of WILLIAM, the eldest son of Mr. & Mrs. Wm. Murphy, of 101 South Street, Rugby, who died in Genoa Hospital, Italy, at the early age of 19, on December 25, 1917.
“ Oh ! how sadly we shall miss him ;
There will a vacant place.
We shall never forget his footsteps,
Or his dear, familiar face.”
—From his loving Father, Mother, Sister & Brothers.

5th Jan 1918. Carrier Pigeons Must Not Be Molested.

CARRIER PIGEONS MUST NOT BE MOLESTED.

In consequence of the indiscriminate shooting of these useful birds and the grave results that may ensue from the loss of them, it may be as well to call attention to the fact that under the Defence of the Realm Regulations a heavy penalty is imposed for killing, wounding, molesting carrier or homing pigeons not belonging to that person. Any pigeon found dead or incapable of flight must be handed over to a police constable or military post. There is also a penalty on any person neglecting to give information who has knowledge of birds being thus found, and a reward is offered for information which may lead to the conviction of offenders.

FOOD CONTROL ITEMS.

The Sugar Rationing Scheme came into force locally on Monday, and has so far worked very smoothly. The whole of the registered sugar retailers have received sufficient quantities of sugar to supply all their customers, and the only complaints received have been from people who have neglected to comply with the requirements as regards filling in and depositing their forms with the retailers. In view of all the circumstances, the number of people who neglected to do this was surprisingly small.

During the past week has been a considerable shortage of margarine locally, and with the exception of a few very small consignments none had arrived in the town on Thursday morning since Xmas Eve.

THE NEW CATTLE SALES ORDER.

The new system of selling fat cattle by weight, as ordered by the Food Controller, came into force at Rugby Market on Monday, and, so far as could be judged, worked to the satisfaction of all concerned.

Under the new instructions all fat cattle are consigned as heretofore to the auctioneers, and are then graded by a committee consisting of the auctioneer, a farmer, and a butcher, and sold by weight at prices fixed according to the grade, the farmer receiving the full value of the beast without reductions for expenses or auctioneers’ fees.

The supply of beef was quite as good as was exported in the circumstances, but there was a falling off as compared with recent weeks, many farmers having disposed of their stock in anticipation of possible restrictions, but unlike many other towns, there was sufficient to satisfy the requirements of local butchers for the time being.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR.
ALLOTMENTS : TO SINGLE MEN.
To the Editor of the Advertiser.

DEAR SIR,- Now that the council had allotments for everyone, don’t you think it time for the single men in lodgings (often two or three in the same house) to speak for some ground and do their bit, and do it now ? I know they are badged men, so are all the married men, who are working all the ground they can get. I wonder if the single men, when they eat their vegetables, think who have grown them with so many men away fighting ? Most of these men live in the houses of soldiers’ wives or widows, and perhaps pay good board money ; but could they not get some ground and supply the vegetables at small cost ? I do not suggest that they should work for nothing. They may say they do not know how to start gardening. It was the same with many on the Clifton Road allotments, yet look at the result ! Beginners are not laughed at ; there are several women on the Clifton Road allotments who have, I am sure, not done gardening before, yet they buy their sack of lime and carry it themselves to their allotments. If these single men are too busy to read their local papers and get to know how their help is wanted, why do not their fellow-workmen give them a hint or two ? They may be only thoughtless, and it is possible they might be glad to give their spare time in such a good cause.
POTATO.

 

CHRISTMAS IN RUGBY.
CHRISTMAS AT THE HARBOROUGH MAGNA HOSPITAL.

On Christmas Day the patients of the Isolation Hospital, Harborough Magna, had a most enjoyable time. Matron and nurses did everything possible to make it a joyful festival, and everything looked very bright and cheerful. The wards were beautifully decorated, one of the chief features being a Christmas tree, from which the Matron gave each patient a gift. The early morning was spent by the nurses singing carols, and after a good dinner, which everyone enjoyed, the patients were entertained by the nurses. Those who were able joined in games, &c. At the conclusion of the happy time cheers from the patients rewarded the Matron and nurses, and showed that they had appreciated all that they had been done for them. The Matron wishes most sincerity to thank all the kind donors who helped to make the Christmas time happy for her little patients.

RUGBY INSTITUTION.—Through the kindness of the Commandant, a party of wounded soldiers, under the charge of Staff-Sergt Rouse, gave an enjoyable evening’s entertainment to the inmates of the above on Friday last week. The programme consisted of character sketches, songs and duets. The chair was taken by Mr W E Robotham.

BOYS’ BRIGADE ENTERTAINED.—On Boxing Night the lst Rugby Company Boys’ Brigade, to the number of 75, were entertained to supper by Mr & Mrs H C Bradby and Mr G F Bradby. After supper they visited the pictures, where seats had been reserved for them by their hosts and hostess.

WOUNDED SOLDIERS ENTERTAINED.

On Saturday afternoon about 120 wounded soldiers from the Infirmary and Te Hira Red Cross Hospitals were entertained to tea, and a concert afterwards, in New Big School, which had been kindly lent by Dr David.

The party was organized by Mrs Prior and Miss Donkin, who were largely helped by kind gifts of flour, cake, jam, sugar, scones, cigarettes, and matches from friends in the town ; the tea being given by local caterers, who provided the urns, crockery, &c. The entertainment, which followed, consisted of songs, recitations, and a play, entitled “ Susan’s Embellishments,” by Mr Arthur Eckersley, the characters being admirably taken by Miss Dukes, Miss Lawrence, Miss Campbell, and Mr Eckersley. Songs were sung by Mrs Prior (with ‘cello accompaniment by Mr A E Donkin), Mr Ingham, Staff-Sergt Rouse, Sergt Sharp, and Lance-Corpl Bailey. Mrs King Stephen gave an amusing recitation. At the conclusion of the entertainment each received a useful present.

THE NEW YEAR.— In pre-war days it was the custom at Rugby, as elsewhere, for the Scottish section to welcome the New Year by assembling round the Clock Tower, drinking healths and singing “ Auld Lang Syne ”—a celebration in which many Southerners joined. Like some other customs, however, this has fallen into desuetude during the War, because, in the first instance, many of the younger element have left the town, and also because the scarcity of that indispensible accompaniment—whisky. Not more than 50 people assembled to see the passing of 1917 and the birth 1918 ; and these, after exchanging mutual good wishes, dispersed without the customary singing and dancing round the Clock Tower.

LOCAL WAR NOTES.

LADY CLARE FEILDING, a daughter of the Earl of Denbigh, has been mentioned in dispatches for valuable services during the War. Viscount Feilding, who mentioned for the third time a few weeks ago, has just been awarded the C.M.G.

Two concerts were given at Bulkington on Thursday, December 27th, by the Misses Woodward, their pupils, and friends in aid of St Dunstan’s Hostel for Blind Soldiers and Sailors. The sum of £42 10s was realised.

Miss Dorothy Walding, daughter of Mrs Walding, The Limes, Hillmorton Road, Rugby, has been mentioned in dispatches by Sir Douglas Haig for work as a V.A.D nurse in France. Miss Walding, who was trained at the Hospital of St Cross, was one of the first to go out to France. She was also selected as one of the first of the staff of 30 nurses to go to Italy.

Second-Lieut A R Whatmore, A.S.C, well known in Rugby through his giving his services in amateur theatrical entertainments and as a vocalist at concerts, was mentioned in Sir D Haig’s recent dispatches.

Lieut-Col W Elliott Batt, R.F.A, who was mentioned in Sir D Haig’s recent dispatches, has been awarded the Companionship of the Order of St Michael and St George for services rendered in connection with military operations in the field (dated January 1, 1918).

Second-Liuet J E Davies, younger son of the late Mr J H Davies and Mrs Davies, of Wedgnock Park, has been promoted a Lieutenant in the King’s Liverpool Regiment. He was educated at Warwick school, and at an early stage of the War he joined the Oxford and Bucks, and was promoted to the rank of sergeant. He took part in the Battle of Loos, and was afterwards recommended for a commission, being posted to the King’s Liverpool. He went out again to the front, and was badly wounded. In civil life he was engaged as an engineer at the British Thomson-Houston Works at Rugby.

Capt M D Cloran, M.C., R.G.A., an engineer on the staff of Messrs Willans & Robinson, has received a bullet wound in the thigh and is now in hospital at Manchester.

Mr W A Stevenson, secretary of the Rugby branch of the N.U.R and a member of the Urban District Council, will form one of the delegation of railwaymen who have been invited by the Government to visit the Western Front.

Two Hinkley neighbours, Pte George Mason and Pte W A Hurst, whose birthdays were on the same day, join up together in 1916, were trained together, fought together, fell side by side in the same action, and were buried together.

News has been received that Second-Lieut J E Baskott, of the Royal Garrison Artillery, died of wounds on December 11th. Prior to joining the Army he was employed in the Machine Shop at the B.T.H.

AN OPENING FOR YOUTHS.

There is a very urgent need for certain skilled men and boys for the R.N.A.S. Skilled wood-workers of categories 1, 2, and 3 are required. Boys in grades 1 or 2 between the ages of 16½ and 18 are also required for enrolment in the R.N.A.S for the duration of the War. They must have some experience of engineering or woodworking trades and a high standard of education.

RUGBY BATTERY COMMANDER AWARDED D.S.O.

Considerable pleasure has been expressed locally at the announcement that Major C P Nickalls, the officer commanding the Rugby Howitzer Battery, has been awarded the D.S.O. Major Nickalls has been connected with the Battery for some years, and he is deservedly popular with all ranks.

SURGERY IN BURNING WRECKAGE.
AMPUTATION TO SAVE LIFE.

A number of remarkable acts of bravery are recorded in the list of awards of the Albert Medal, published in the “ London Gazette ” ; among them is a record of the manner in which our townsman, Dr Hoskyns, gained the Medal.

By a railway accident in France a man was pinned down by the legs under some heavy girders. The wreckage was on fire, and the flames had reached the man’s ankles, when Capt Charles R Hoskyns, R.A.M.C, crawled into a cavity in the burning wreckage, and after releasing one of the man’s legs amputated the other. The man was then drawn out alive, Capt Hoskyns keeping hold of the main artery until a tourniquet could be put on.

LEAMINGTON HASTING.

DIES OF WOUNDS.—News has been received by Mr Thos Gulliver, of Broadwell, that his son, Private Harry Gulliver, of the Warwicks, has died of wounds in France. Much sympathy is expressed for his parents who have now lost both their sons, the younger one being killed in action a few weeks ago.

NEWBOLD-ON-AVON.

ROLL OF HONOUR.—News has been received by Mrs J Williams that her thirds son, Pte Alfred T Williams, was killed in action in France on November 28th. Pte Williams, who was 23 years of age, enlisted in the 12th Lancers in September, 1914, and prior to that time was employed Coventry. Much sympathy is felt for Mrs Williams, this being the second son who has died for his country.

RED CROSS DISTINCTION.

A few days before Christmas, Miss Kathleen Bolam, lady superintendent at Bilton Hall Red Cross Hospital, attended at Buckingham Palace and was presented by the King with the decoration of the Royal Red Cross, for which she had been recommended. Miss Bolam was afterwards received at Marlborough House by Queen Alexandra, who complimented her on her excellent work. This is the only distinction of the kind that has been awarded in Warwickshire.

MORE PRISONERS OF WAR.

Corpl J C Barclay, 4th South Staffordshires, son of Mr A M Barclay, 23 Murray Road, reported missing on November 3rd, has written home saying that he is a prisoner of war at Limburg A/Lahn. An old Territorial, Corpl Barclay was mobilised at the outbreak war, and had been in France 15 months.

Lance-Corpl E A Bromwich, 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards, second son of Mr E A Bromwich, Newton House Farm, has been officially reported a prisoner of war in Germany, but the address of his internment camp has not yet been received. Lance-Corpl Bromwich is well known in Rugby ; he worked for his father on the milk round for 10 or 11 years. His wife lives at Newton.

Pte L Lixenfield, son of Mr & Mrs J Lixenfield, of Wolston, is a prisoner of war in Germany, and interned at Munster. He was formerly in the employ of Messrs Bluemel Bros, Ltd.

Arrangements are being made by the Hon Secretary of the Rugby Prisoners of War Help Committee (Mr J Reginald Barker) to forward the standard food parcels and bread to these prisoners.

“ THANKS TO YOUR MEDICINE.”

The following letter has been received by J R Barker, hon secretary of the Rugby Prisoners of War Help Committee, from Pte William Turner, Royal Munster Fusiliers, who is interned Giessen :- November 19th, 1917.

DEAR MR BARKER.—Just a few words to you in acknowledgment of your parcels, which I receive regularly and in good condition. I receive everything with the exception of tobacco. I wish to thank you very much, also your committee in Rugby, for what you have done for us out here. . . I am in the very pink, thanks to your medicine. Yorkshire Relish is unnecessary, as the air here is of the best. I am at present working near a famous English resort in peace time, called Bad Langenswabbach, also not many miles from Wiesbaden. I am on the land as a farm helper—a position I do not fancy very much, but I have no choice. One thing, I can start farming when I return, as I now understand all farming work.—I remain, yours very gratefully. WILLIAM TURNER.

TOBACCO FOR THE RUGBY RED CROSS HOSPITALS.

During the year just passed the sum of £103 10s 1d has been raised by subscriptions and donations for the purpose of supplying cigarettes and tobacco to the soldiers in the two Rugby Hospitals. Four-fifths of the amount was subscribed by friends who contributed 1s or 2s per week each. Altogether £83 9s 3d has been spent in purchasing the fragrant weed, which has been supplied free of duty by the Sailors and Soldiers Smokes Society. The administrators of the fund, Mr H N Sporberg and the Rev W H Payne-Smith, hoped that one year’s operations might enough, but that hope has not been realised, and both hospitals are, and are likely to remain, full to their limit.

DEATHS.

BARKER.—In loving memory of Pte. WILLIAM BARKER (Wolston), who died of wounds in France on December 15, 1917 ; aged 29 years. “ Rest in peace.”

GULLIVER.—In ever-loving memory of HARRY, the eldest and only surviving son of Mr. & Mrs. T. A Gulliver (Broadwell), who died of wounds in France on December 23. 1917, aged 28 years.
“ We loved him—oh ! No tongue can tell
How much we loved him and how well.
His fresh young life could not be saved,
And now he lies in soldier’s grave.”
—From his loving Father, Mother, and Sisters.