Clifford Smith, JP of Waveney House, Puddingmoor. He left South Africa for France on the outbreak
originally went to South Africa during the Boer War.
evening, struck a match to examine it, and it exploded. It was a detonator. One of the boys lost some
of his fingers..
Pierrotland”
HOUSE TO LET: 39 Northgate, apply Mrs WE Boulter, 4 Kilbrack
1917
products.
DEATH OF John Edwin CRISP. Born 11 December 1839, died 7 January 1917. Aged 77. A
one of the largest maltings in the country. The building in Station Road was partly destroyed by fire
in 1912, but was repaired with up-to date machinery. He was a JP for both Norfolk & Suffolk,
Town Council for several years, and retained membership of the Feoffees until his death. He was a
Waveney in the neighbourhood of Beccles. He was always greatly interested in the freshwater
Treasurer. He was one of the oldest Commissioners of Taxes; he was Chairman of the Beccles
Dashwood, daughter of Dr Robert Dashwood, JP of Geldeston, who survives him. His son John Crisp
of Kirby Cane Hall survives him, and daughters.
(24 April 1917: Estate valued at £109,906. Net personalty £80,743. Stock in Trust for his daughter,
at £500 & £600 annuity to his wife; £100 to his faithful clerk, William Read.; the residue to his son.)
POTATO GROWING: Scotch Seed Potatoes ordered through central supplier encouraged.
1917
only a few rags in her bedroom, with a coverlet too small to cover her: so she must have suffered
much from the cold. She was a grand-daughter of late James Mullett, master tailor, and member of
estate. She owned her own house and the neighbouring house. William Chatters, engine driver at the
Castle Mills had lived next door to her for 4 years.
practically all her furniture to satisfy her craving for drink. She was seen picking up pieces of paper
and sticks in the streets to get a little warmth in the cold weather. She seemed very ill of late, and lack
COUNCIL: 1) People would now be allowed to keep pigs on their allotments during the duration of
the war. 2) Alderman Nathaniel Walter Pells, Deputy Mayor, had produced a gown for the Deputy
Queen Elizabeth. The Mayor’s robe was 45 years old and had first been worn by Mr TA Laws, when
The chain was given by JP Walton when Mayor; The Pendant was the gift of Mr Harry Seymour
Mayor.
of Beccles and a former pupil of Beccles College.
THE VOLUNTEERS: The Army Council has stated that a Volunteer should put in 14 drills every
shooting & musketry practice. There is also to be a medical examination.
DEATH OF Mr ROBERT READ, aged 89. He was a Dairyman for 40 years & arrived in Beccles
DEMONSTRATION OF MEATLESS COOKING at Sir John Leman School.
DANGEROUS BULLOCK bullock owned by WWT Youngman, being taken for slaughter, escaped.
1917
Before it was captured it had knocked down 2 soldiers & others. Mr Tilney’s marksmanship used
after it had been cornered in a former slaughter house in Ballygate. He shot it.
1917
BROTHEL: Mary Dowe charged with permitting her house to be used as a brothel. Supt Newson
Edward Hill, inspector for the NSPCC., who gave evidence as to the visit of soldiers there for
BURNING FURZE ON COMMON: 5 boys charged with setting fire to gorse on the Common. Said
Fined 2s 6d each.
POST OFFICE: Postmaster asks women to be postmen, on account of lack of men.. To leave their
WAR SAVINGS MEETING: Speaker stressed the importance of war savings for the war.
MEETING OF EAST SUFFOLK WOMEN’S AGRICULTURAL COMMITTEE. Deputy Mayor,
1917
not work a whole day could spend an hour or two a day, particularly concerned with growing
potatoes.
1917
1917
TO LET: The Gables, London Road. Apply AR Block
TO LET: Lock-up Shop, Apply Garrett, 6 Hungate-
Mr AE Burwood. 2)Land in Gresham Road owned by CH Durrant; 3) Land in Ashman’s Road
belonging to Mr Petre. 4) 2 pieces of Land owned by EJ Hindes in Ashman’s Road. 5) Land behind
CINEMA, SALTGATE, ATTENDANT, Miss Aldred, who has worked there since it opened in 1914
had presentation, leaving to take up munitions work.
Private Walter Youell, 5th Suffolk’s, in landing at Sulva Bay, invalided home, since serving in
Driver George Youell, 2/6th Midland Howitzer Brigade, RFA, serving in France
Private Percy Youell, King’s Royal Rifles, serving in Greece
Hector Youell, aged 16, working at munitions
Mack Youell, aged 15, working at munitions
1917
William Youell, engaged on transport work.
TRIBUNAL: The final appeal for the Borough Engineer had been turned down. [Charles Hamby
LETTER IN DEFENCE OF BECCLES by a Beccles soldier replying to an earlier critical letter:
“I know that at the 17 stations in which our Company has been billeted not one has made the
the use of a recreation room equal to the Public Hall, with its free papers, writing material, games,
etc., or the free membership of a Club equal to the Social Institute, with its three full-size billiard
gladly welcome any military.
SALE OF FURNITURE:“ ROOKWOOD,”LONDON ROAD, BECCLES:. READ, STANFORD &
WEDNESDAY, 14th March, 1917, the valuable Household FURNITURE and Effects, including
Walnut Dining Room Suite and Sideboard, Antique Chippendale Card Table, Mahogany Dining and
COTTAGE PIANOFORTE in Walnut by Bord, Music Stool and Canterbury, two Violins, Mirrors,
suite, Axminster, Brussels and Kidderminster Carpets, Chenille and Lace Curtains, “Mimeograph”
Plated Articles, etc. also Lawn Mower, Garden Roll, Tools, and other Outdoor Effects. The Sale will
viewed between the hours of 2 and 6 on the Afternoon prior to the Sale, by holders of Catalogues
only, which may be obtained (Price 6d. each) of the Auctioneers.
offering his services during the absence of Mr Hamby. The Surveyor reported that he had approached
Mr Pritchard, the Sanitary Inspector and Surveyor for the Loddon and Clavering Rural District
course of procedure. Resolved that Mr Pritchard be appointed as Mr Hamby’s deputy during his
SURVEYOR: Mr CL Hamby has been granted a commission (2nd Lieutenant) as Technical Advisory
CASUALTY Private A Copeman, MTASC, youngest son of Alderman H Copeman, has been
some time and he had taken some men up to the trenches and was returning alone about 3 am when a
shell burst near him. His left arm was fractured, and his right hand damaged by shrapnel.
£37-10s; from Mr Hipperson’s house in Puddingmoor a gold & a metal watch were stolen; from a
lock-up shop in New Market cigarettes were stolen; a silver cigarette case was stolen from a private
CLERGY & NATIONAL SERVICE: Director-General to Clergy called clergy to volunteer. Rev WS
Andrews & Rev P Higham placed themselves at the Bishop’s disposal. Mr Higham to be released
quartered in the town.
BECCLES VOLUNTEERS: Appeal to those over 42 to join. Every efficient Volunteer will release a
evening. 14 hours a week during training and ten hours a week afterwards.
WORLINGHAM WIN THE WAR MEETING: People could help win the war by 1) growing all they
LICENCES: Mr Everitt of Watson & Everitt formally applied for renewal of licence of Hungate
Stores. The tenant had served in the South African War & was now fighting abroad.
About 4 lodgers a week were taken in. The nearest pub was 43 paces away. Police did not consider
PRINCE OF WALES BEERHOUSE, Smallgate: Mr E Reeve (Mills & Reeve) stated that the owners
licence for compensation.
the tenant for 25 years, said he got a living out of the premises & had brought up a family of seven.
The house was used by the working class living in the vicinity. There was only one other pub in the
Mayor of Beccles, said the house always appeared very well conducted. The rooms were fairly large,
well ventilated, and always clean and in good order, and every comfort was provided for the
compensation.
WITH THE BECCLES BOYS ON ~ THE DESERT IN EGYPT. I see from the East Suff Gaz that
I read in the same paper our experiences on the a Peninsula, also written by one of our boys from
Beccles. I am trying to send you an account of how we spent the time, and what we did between
have somewhat of a rough idea of life out here. We arrived at Alexandria just before Christmas, 1915,
and went into camp at Sidi Bishe, staying there till February; then we shifted on to Cairo into another
here we had a long ride and found ourselves on the bank of the Suez Canal. The outlook was not a
very cheerful one, for as far as the eye could see was sand dotted here and there with a patches of
the heat rising from the sand made a good many of us wish for the coffee and iced drinks we had left
Of course I must not describe the defence works, but these are of such a character that no enemy
once our fourth line camps called Bridge Heads laid, for a name was given to all places of any
the desert, the end of which we called Rail Head. From here roads were made to connect up other
camps which were called Road Heads. From here you take to the sands, into which you sink ankle
our first line camps.
After a spell at this place we were sent back to the Canal, and enjoyed the splendid bathing and
angry, or is he writing a Note? But not till we got the papers. After a good rest we returned to our
Fantasiers,” the supply being limited; but soon other arrangements were made, and we got a liberal
making it necessary for us to use riveting boards and sandbags in the trenches. To get these of a
duty. Night duty in the dark has to be very carefully carried out, as a very small party of the enemy
could do a great deal of damage by placing mines. It is surprising how sound travels over the sands
Our officers insist upon everywhere and everything being scrupulously clean, as fevers are so easily
contracted; and in this and other ways we are in kept at it. It would be awfully monotonous if we did
precaution is taken. Guards, patrols, and pickets are doubled. Then over the sky line appears our
Camel Corps or the mounted scouts, who have been able to secure some Turkish prisoners. These are
conversation, and some tell us they were on the Peninsula and fought against us there, and many
other things that will interest the Beccles people when the “Boys come home”.
some women and children. These are Bedouin Arabs coming in from protection from the Turks, who
probably have stolen some of their goats. They are brought in by aeroplane escort, the plane whirling
camels, donkeys and goats all trying to drink out of one bowl at one time would be highly amusing if
it were not so pathetic. There is very little vegetation on the desert. A few stunted bushes which at
these are all there are. Strange to say however there are plenty of snails. In some places the sand is
We have plenty of mice especially near to the camps, the same colour as the sand, with long legs like
snakes are often seen. The whip snake and puff adder are very common. Then there are scorpions,
We are not always at one place. We change over to get better fitted for the work before us, being
trained in every conceivable way for any eventuality. There is little twilight, but in what there is we
were soon on the move again, as great possibilities are before us, the places for which have been
carefully prepared.
you to safely keep the card sent by the Mayor and townspeople with the parcel at Christmas, and
should like to add to the thanks of Sergt. Harvey which have already appeared those of my own
we intend to “Go right on and at the end of the road victory and honour will be found.”
DEATH OF Mrs GARTSIDE TIPPING: The death occurred on March 4th, “in the war zone in
Thomas Gartside Tipping, RN, of Geldeston, Beccles, who was killed on September 25th, 1915,
while serving in the armed yacht Sanda, off the Belgian coast. It will be remembered that in his
at the death of Lieut-Commander Gartside-Tipping, described him as the oldest naval officer afloat,
his age being 67. “In spite of his advanced age,” Sir Reginald added, “he rejoined, and with
Tipping, who was the daughter of the late Captain Flynn, RA, married Mr Gartside-Tipping in 1890.
[continued 20 March]: a Requiem Mass for the late Mrs Gartside Tipping, of Geldeston, was said at
Munition Workers’ Canteen, Woolwich, and last January joined the Women’s Emergency Corps for
French military authorities have done everything possible to express their sympathy, the croix de
guerre, which had been withheld from women since last November, was conferred at once; and a full
NATIONAL SERVICE: 500,000 Men Wanted at once for work of primary importance -- essential
for the safety of the Nation. “There are millions of gallant young men facing torture, terror, death:
There is AGRICULTURE -- many ex-ploughmen -- wanted most urgently of all -- are now engaged
There is WORK IN THE WOODS: the felling, sawing and hauling of timber. There is home
ENGINEERING.
NATIONAL SERVICE.
RETURNS OF EMPLOYEES: All employers to give tabulated list of all male employees of 16 and
KEEPING A BROTHEL: Esther Sayer, a married woman whose husband is a sailor, pleaded guilty
to keeping a brothel in [9] Newgate [Charles Sayer was in HMS Lucifer]. Margaret Spalding,
aiding and abetting. Subsequently both said the house was not used for any wrong purpose. Police
Sergt W Reeve & PC Bird gave evidence as to visits paid by soldiers to the house, and Supt Newson
months hard labour.
CATERPILLAR TRACTOR: sent to the district by the Board of Agriculture.. Arrived at Beccles
station, and a crowd collected to watch some necessary adjustments opposite the garage works of Mr
W Robinson. It was taken to Worlingham to be used on the fields.
vessel from Grimsby was engaged in its peaceful occupation of trawling, when a German destroyer
came along, sank the trawler and took the crew prisoners. The crew included Harry Gilding, son of
prisoners of war in Germany ever since.
1917
NATIONAL SERVICE: RC DUNT said that there were still 300-400 men of military age resident in
between the ages of 18 & 61. There were 1214 in the services. Various men had already been posted
the staff. Two maltsters had gone to works as ploughmen. A stonemason had gone to munitions work,
a cabinet maker was working in an aircraft factory.
1917
DEATH OF CALEB CHASE aged 58. Suffering from asthma & bronchitis Stationer & Newsagent in
Market Street. As a young man he was employed in the Caxton Press, and was head clerk there when
years Secretary of the Caxton Cricket Club & was one of the organizers of the Athletics Sports
Meetings. Four of his sons are in the services.
1917
1917
REGIMENTAL SPORTS OF 3rd YEOMANRY CYCLISTS.
DEATH OF Mrs Sophia Walker aged 80, widow of Frederick Walker, brickmaker, living with her
died as a result.
NEED FOR FOOD ECONOMY: We must economise on foodstuffs. The real difficulty is centred on
should be eliminated. If every person will eat one pound of bread less a week we can laugh at the
submarine.
He was Relieving Officer for the Beccles District of Wangford, Vaccination Officer, Inspector of
Deaths until 1896. He succeeded Charles Bobbett as Clerk to the Feoffees 1853 until 1896. Clerk to
oldest member of the Congregational Church & Trustee of the Mill Land Trust, which provides the
Cameron (daughters, Mr A King (son-in law)
BECCLES CADET CORPS: DC Smith, Hon Treas appeals for funds, from The Staithe, Northgate.
1917
for their support.
ADVERTISEMENT: City Flour Mills, Norwich. Appointed RW Rawston Manager of Beccles
(both ineligible [for call-up]) his last two butchers have joined up.
1917
ADVERTISEMENT: Pearce’s Stores, Blyburgate: Teas, coffees, provisions, spirits, Ales etc.
Station
Market
ADVERTISEMENT: Macbeths for value. Fancy Draper, (Underwear drawing)., 17 New Market
1917
Trolleys, Cycles etc
ADVERTISEMENT: Fauconberge School: Headmaster T Clifford Smith, MA, open scholar of
ADVERTISEMENT: Beccles College; Sound Commercial Education. Practical land Surveying.
Individual Attention. Generous Diet. Produce from own Dairy Farm. Fees moderate. CC Hall, BA
ADVERTISEMENT: Highfield School, Upper Grange Road. High Class Modern Education.
Preparation for Public Examinations. Large newly built Schoolrooms. Special facilities for Hockey,
or two Boarders, Weekly or otherwise. Principal: Miss Frederica E Werner.
ADVERTISEMENT: Miss Marion T Wells, LRAM, gives lessons in Piano, Singing & Theory, 2
ADVERTISEMENT: William Steer, Watchmaker, Jeweller, Optician, 37 New Market.
ADVERTISEMENT: Brett’s for Furniture or Earthenware, 23, New Market
1917
1917
ADVERTISEMENT: Beccles Gas Co: A Gas Cooker, Saves Time; CG Carpenter, engineer &
ADVERTISEMENT: WE Boulter, Ladies’ & Gents’ Tailor. Our cutter holds first-class Certificate of
ADVERTISEMENT: S White, Ye Olde Shoppe, established 1804. Optician, Jeweller & Silversmith,
ADVERTISEMENT: G Sampson, House Furnisher, Clothier etc. The Walk, Beccles
ADVERTISEMENT: Arthur Dare, Draper & Outfitter, St Andrews House, 11, New Market
1917
1917
1917
ADVERTISEMENT: Camplings, dry cleaners, 8 The Walk
CASUALTY: Private William Soanes, South African Infantry, died of wounds in France. He joined
Campaign & afterwards volunteered for service in France. Mrs Suckling was his sister
COUNCIL WORKMEN applying for increase of 4s a week.
1917
Yeomanry, 2nd Lieut 4th TF Reserve Battalion, Lincoln Regt.
PROMOTION: Sergt F Harvey of the Suffolk Regt, DCM, Croix Kara-Georg, awarded for services
Battalion.
STREET ACCIDENT: Collision in Hungate between baker’s barrow belonging to the Co-operative
scattered around, the pony was thrown down, 3 lady occupants with a lad were pitched out on to the
road. No one seriously hurt.
Party under W Warder Harvey on Saturday.
by Miss Burton & soldiers. Warder Harvey accompanied. Address given by JS Palmer. Said the
responsibility of handing that Empire down to our children unsullied and intact. The true greatness of
submission to the rule of Christ.
NORTH HOUSE ISOLATION HOSPITAL: It was supposed to be for scabies or other infectious
isolation hospital it did not matter. It did matter if it was.
WAR AGRICULTURAL COMMITTEE: FWD Robinson in the Chair. 900 acres near Ilketshall St
land now under cultivation & 133 acres of derelict land might produce a crop in 1918.
organized things properly and few arrived in time. A ploughman was asked for, but a weaver was
FARMERS’ RED CROSS SALE: Mr GA Stanford wielding the hammer said that if any purchaser
submitting it again -- an offer which was repeatedly taken advantage of.. The total realised at the sale
was £548.
was elected an auditor in place of Mr A Pells, who has left the Town, to act with Mr GA Stanford, at
a remuneration of £1 1s each. “Darkening the Church “ cost about £70.
up. On Monday one of the biggest firms in London quoted oatmeal at 41s per bag. Some of the other
merchants quoted 7s more. The original firm sent instructions to travellers to raise the price to 48s.
of Capt Thomas de la Garde Grissell.
DEATH O MRS HANNAH VINCE: widow of Rev Charles Vince, eminent non-conformist ministers
Dec 1, 1823. Married 1852
CASUALTY LIST: Mr & Mrs W Knights of Puddingmoor informed that their 2nd son Private John
July last year. He was killed in action in France.
CASUALTY: Gunner William Clift of Shropshire RHA died of wounds in France. He was billeted
WAR RELIEF COMMITTEE: Reading Room, Canteen & Voluntary Organizations.
1917
GER 47 years, 10 in Beccles.
Works was scalded and died in the Hospital. William Gould was hurt. (details were given on 15th)
St Swithin with St Margaret, Norwich; 1907 Rector of Westhall., Aged 78. [in 1881 he lived at 14
Frederick’s Road]
Three escaped German prisoners from Pattishall Internment Camp, Northamptonshire, Corpl. Walter
Rivera, Lieut. Gustav Lutz, Sergt.-Major Wilhelm Landes were met by Police-constable Seaman on
The prisoners’ appearance aroused his suspicions, and he challenged them, and then discovered who
they were. Police-constable Seaman is to be highly commended for his action in this matter, as he had
The story told by the prisoners of their adventures is of exceptional interest. ‘They escaped from the
camp during the night, notwithstanding that big arc lamps were burning, and that the sentries were
at each end. which they placed between the wires with the aid of gloves. This opened the wires
sufficiently to let them get through, while the barbed wire offered a less dangerous if. more painful
Once clear they made for the station, and took train next morning, and, not even seeking the privacy
of a quiet carriage, travelled for 40 miles with a carriage full of British soldiers, who spent a good
detection on this journey seems incredible, for the NC.O, although wearing a civilian cap, had his
themselves.
the station, they got off and walked about the town and here the officer’s ability to speak English
Regaining the station they took train for Ipswich, at which place, although they did not leave the
station, they walked about the station regardless of the military and other police. Still escaping
on Saturday night.
After taking stock of what would suit their purpose for the journey to the Continent, they left the
and although in plain clothes he stopped them and inquired who they were and what they were doing.
broken English, and on informing the policeman “that they were Breetish,” he told them they must
They were conducted to the Southwold Police Station, where inspector Ruffles took charge of them,
was just going to be sent when he brought them in. The Constable was heartily congratulated on his
smart capture, as, but for his vigilance, the men would doubtless have been clear away during the
The officer was of a type of very superior German, being a Saxon — in fact, he was spoken of as
being “a real good sport’’. He said he regarded it as a soldier’s duty, be he British or Gerona. to
since 1914, commencing as a corporal, and had been wounded seven times, being taken prisoner last
August. He expressed his great admiration of the British soldier as a fighter. but was confident of
since 1906. On being searched, it was found that they had a sailor’s compass and the German flag in
their possession, by the aid of which they hoped to reach either the German or Dutch coast, taking
patrol-boats that surround the coast.
The prisoners were conveyed to London.
1917
better in the observance in the voluntary system of rationing, particularly with regard to bread,
compulsory rationing will be put into force without further delay. “We must eat less”. Food Director,
COMMISSIONED: Mr AE Bunn, formerly in Mr JP Larkman’s office now 2nd Lieut in Norfolk
POOR RATE: Rate 3s in £. Precepts:. Guardians Wangford Union (including County Rate): £3038;
HONOURS: Surgeon Prob Christopher Helsham “who worked with great energy and ability in
with HMS Swift, engaged a flotilla of five or six German destroyers, of which two were sunk.
RECRUITS: Men up to the age of 50, either married or single to voluntarily attest for military service
1917
Pleasant Place. He had completed 12 years service & was in Reserves when war broke out. He spent
three Christmases in the trenches.
sunk in the English Channel. He jumped into the sea, and was ultimately picked up by one of the
ship’s boats. Mr & Mrs Seago have now lost one son, a son-in-law and three nephews.
Norfolk Regt, wounded in Palestine. He went out to the Dardanelles with the 5th Suffolks, granted a
Commission with the Norfolks
women employed. Now there were 198 males & 102 women. He said there were 48 men employed of
military age employed. 21 rejected by the military. Four machine minders to go into services.
Saws, planking etc.
CALL UP OF FARM WORKERS: Captain Lush told War Agricultural Executive that instructions
NORTH COVE HALL: Sale of Furniture of S Lister
1917
occupied by Strougler & Smith [Purchased by Mr E Darby £220, 17 July]
Before the war with Welsh Fuseliers in Cretan outbreak & the Boxer Revolution in Peking. He was
France. He was at Arras & Thiepval. He is expecting to return to France shortly.
SOLDIER IN PALESTINE: Private Harry Baxter of Suffolk Regt wounded on advance on Gaza.
followed by the Suffolks & another Regiment. Our object was to take a ridge held by the Turks about
2000 yards from our position, which we took and held an hour afterwards. The Turks retired as fast as
brought us two days’ rations, so I had an idea what was coming off in the morning.
turn to make an attack, with another Regiment in support and we in reserve. At 7.30 the Norfolks
hotter and hotter, and we could see the shells bursting into them as they went on. In the meanwhile
didn’t come under a lot of shell fire at first, but we had not gone a long way before we were under
rifle fire as well as shells; and as one glanced about we saw hundreds of dead and wounded who had
Then I got my packet. I went down and lay there for about a quarter of an hour. Then I tried to walk
and hobbled to the nearest dressing station. It was far worse getting back. Their artillery had spotted
difficulty, as my wound was very painful through walking. I was then removed to clearing station,
then here by hospital train - in all about 20 hours ride.
without touching the bone.”
AN EXCURSION: The wounded men in the VAD Hospital enjoyed a trip to St Olave’s through the
Olave’s.
WEDDING: At St Benet’s: Dr JJ Ryan of Dublin to Maureen daughter of Captain W Halpin. (War
SALE: REDISHAM HALL ESTATE: only 1 of 10 lots sold. Mr B Stanford for £1,500
SALE: CHENERY’S FARM (To close a Trust) with House & Farm Premises 108 acres, now and for
1917
AIRMAN KILLED: 2nd Lieut Fred W Evans of Muswell Hill, educated Beccles College. Aged 23.
COUNCIL MEETING: Mayor, (Councillor Hindes), Deputy Mayor, (Alderman Pells), Aldermen:
Jolly, Brooks and White. The Isolation Hospital inspected; very clean.
out in August 1914 in the ranks of the Lancers, fought through the retreat. Given commission in 1914
“for services in the field”. He has taken part in all large operations, awarded MC for “rallying badly
He showed conspicuous coolness and bravery under exceptionally heavy shell fire and machine gun
fire.” He is the eldest son of the late Inspector Reeve of Beccles.
Corps. Formerly a Trooper in Suffolk Yeomanry, having joined up on the day war was declared. He
is now in Palestine. His brother also in the Suffolks was killed at Neuve Chapelle.
duty”.
CASUALTY LISTS: Rifleman Alfred Shiplee killed, aged 27. Employed by GER at Maryland
now four sons & two sons-in-law serving with the colours.
SALE: 11 & 13 St GEORGE’S ROAD: Executors of late James Mullett: A pair of well-built
occupied by the late Mrs S Pipe; No 13 in occupation of Mr William Chatters.
3rd BATTALION SUFFOLK VOLUNTEERS, “C” Company Beccles, Platoons 8 & 9.Monday:
do so without delay. Wednesday. Musketry 7pm; Saturday 2.30 pm Signed Lieut Ed A Thompson.
Full Parade; Thursday: Practice Shooting at Range. Signed Capt DC Smith
1917
PRESENTATION: Mr FS Robinson, manager of the Co-Operative Society’s clothing and boot
CASUALTIES: Private AE Aldous, Royal Fuseliers, late manager of the International Stores, son of
Mr WG Aldous, Grove Road, wounded in France.
Writing to his father, from Palestine, a Beccles soldier gives an interesting account of the British
attacks on Gaza. Starting from our camp at Raft, says the writer, in the early hours of March 23rd,
Guzzeh, we obtained a few hours’ sleep. Rations were then served out, and water bottles filled up.
and two days’ “iron” or emergency rations.
fighting order towards a ridge named Sheikh Abbass, on the right of our attacking line. Strange to
which we would command the road from Beersheba to Gaza. The only Turks we saw were those
brought in as prisoners by the mounted troops. Meanwhile the attack on Gaza was developing and
We held our positions on this ridge until about 9 p.m., and then withdrew to another ridge in a more
central position. Here we were in reserve to a brigade thrown into the attack. We stayed at Mansura
troops on the left, working up the level strip of country along the shore called the plain of Philistia
had entered Gaza. They were, however, forced to withdraw; but later in the day they entered again.
attack. Our rearguards held them, and the artillery fire demoralised them. We dug in on the crest of
the ridge and waited, but no attack was made on them; and everything having been got safely away
cavalry were scouring the country; and we held our breath once when a Turkish column marched
across our front and wheeled into the darkness. The troops we had protected had not been idle, and
overlooking the Wadi juzzeb.
That ended the first attack. The second was to prove more costly, and preparations were commenced
and mules had none for three. The sun was scorching, and we were without water for about twenty-
gas shells and a smoke cloud was to cover our advance. Tanks were to be used, and the method of co-
seven miles from Gaza, and cavalry patrols were engaged almost every day in the area of Wadi
A Turkish aeroplane would often swoop down on our cavalry with machine gun fire. But in spite of
all opposition, roads were made past the wadi, hills levelled and gullies filled up to enable our
with cement. Dugouts were made, and every preparation was carried out for the attack, which was to
be made in two phases. The special task of our own Division was to capture and hold Sheikh Abbass
2000 yards from the ridge. While we still laid at Inn Seirat the railway was extended and hospitals
established. The enemy brought up heavy guns and shelled the railway and the hospital, causing
what he had to do.
In our first attack the maps had been at fault. They were of German origin and very old; but the
concentrated at Dumbell Hill. where we were joined by two Tanks which were to precede us by a
thousand yards. Just before dawn we started, the Tanks signalling all clear. Before long we came
was in sight, and we wondered what was awaiting us there. The Tank was moving along the top, but
not firing; so we advanced and got shrapnel and H.E.’s for our trouble. But no one was hit, and the
and without loss, and at once dug in on the crest. There we came in for a deal of shell fire, but it was
The first phase was over. The other Divisions on the left had all reached their objectives, and
another Regiment went over against the position of the Turks, about 2000 yards distant, consisting of
a fire of gas and tear shells. Our men had to cross perfectly open country, and for l500 yards they
were exposed to rifle and shell fire, from which they suffered heavily. The Tank (the other one was
trenches there was a slight ridge and the advancing infantry were able by lying flat to obtain cover
from rifle fire, and here they gained a breather. Then up and over with the bayonet, and from the
Up till now the machine guns had been silent. It was estimated there were seven to each redoubt, and
in front ; while the Turks, who had retired, advanced and counter-attacked. The three Regiments who
retirement, Beccles men leading the way. Our lines were as straight as if we were on parade, and as
knew what had happened to the other Regiments who had gone in front of them.We lost about 100 in
covering the ground to the ridge, and got into a position where we could neither advance nor retire.
undoubtedly saved a great many from being hit. We soon dug ourselves in where we were, and our
people got in most of the wounded, though the Turks were sniping at our stretcher-bearers. Then we
wounded, and one poor fellow crawled back to our lines with three bayonet wounds in the chest, and
nothing on but his shirt. He said the Turks were bayoneting and stripping the wounded, and the cries
dawn the Turks charged the trenches we had just left. Since then we have been from place to place
extending our line, and a force has gone against Beersheba and done well. Twice as many prisoners
had pockets full of wheat, and only the officers had brown bread. We are all quite happy. Good news
from France cheers us up.
which with biscuits and sardines they presented to us to show their appreciation in the work we did in
the effort to capture Gaza. We held on long enough to enable them to get all their wounded in. Our
other Divisions who saw our work.
The annual Conference of the Diocese of St. Edmundsbury and Ipswich, took place at Ipswich on
said the reformers did not desire another gospel, but to clear away hindrances and to supply new
that any changes and reform in the machinery of any particular diocese should be in line with the
principles and methods of the main national scheme.
were akin and both related to the very life of the Church. The glory and hope of the English Church
were in the parish system. Yes, and its shame and. weakness, too, were to be found there. What was a
very often a large rectory on a net income of £200 per annum or less? Week in, week out, the same
narrow round of duty to tread; not enough to occupy the mind; constant money anxiety. To unite
work, and a more adequate income, this was the remedy which they had in view.
But there was another hindrance to effective work in their parishes. The case he meant of a parish
but retirement meant penury and starvation. He could, indeed, apply to resign “under the Act,” and
receive an allowance from the income of the benefice, which meant partially starving two men
was urgent that this matter of pensions should be taken in hand.
The report of the Diocesan Board of Finance showed there had been an increase both in subscriptions
current year.
might be advantageously consolidated, and to get information from patrons and others as to the
56 livings held in plurality and 156 permanently consolidated. In 1916 there were over 100 benefices
under £100. The Rev. Cobbold spoke strongly against the motion, and said he knew of instances
where the consolidation had been most unhappy. If an income was too small to provide for a resident
amendment moved by Dean Carter was adopted as follows: ‘ That the interests and necessities of the
Church at the present time make the union of benefices a subject of pressing importance, and that a
the report of the Pensions Committee of the Central Board of Finance, that ruri-decanal Chapters and
Finance, and that the Board of Finance, prepare and present a final report to the next sitting of this
fixing the compulsory age at 65 —A voice: What will the bishops say to compulsory retirement at 65
NAVAL HONOUR: Gunner H Batterbury (late HMS King Edward VII) and now on the Royal Oak
decorated by the French Government for bravery in the Battle of Jutland.
premises in Puddingmoor and three of them fell in. Miss Marjorie Hipperson, in spite of a motor-boat
being in the way, dived in with her clothes on, and swimming under the ropes of the motor-boat
spot, there has been a drop of several feet and the children who paddle there do not know this. Some
years ago the Coroner asked if something could not be done to prevent children falling in and getting
WAR BREAD WHOLESOME: The Food Controller set up committee to examine the quality of war
time bread. Considered to be wholesome if baked properly.
business in Lowestoft as carpenter & undertaker.. Joined the Royal Naval Air Service and was
engaged in France for a year. He became ill, returned to England and died.
part in the recent offensive on the Western front in France, writes :—Never, even in my somewhat
varied career, have I experienced such untold depths of feeling, of wonder, such sensations, such
what was coming, and although I vaguely hinted thereat I could give no information to anyone
If I were to set forth the things that mine eyes have seen, the deeds of heroic valour, the humorous,
think I may tell quite a lot of what actually happened as I saw it, sans fear of censor, for such things
touch may now be able to reintroduce interest, although the incidents of which I write are spread out
over the last fortnight.
prepare the way for my battalion when it should arrive. For forty-eight hours we worked with only
one break of three hours, during which I managed to get one hour’s sleep, and one and a half hours’
By 2 a.m. we were ready and resting, so I got in two or nearly two hours’ sleep. I awoke with a start
at 3.10 a.m.
cataclysm broke forth. In one stupendous crash nineteen mines and countless guns belched forth all
the fiendish weapons of Hell upon the partially unsuspecting Bosche. Luckily I was not sleeping with
sergeant said he felt the earth move six inches under him) It brought down huge chunks of earth on
my reposeful body. I was up with a start, and such a pandemonium was let loose that is absolutely
stood wheel to wheel and in rows one behind the other. But even seeing them come up in batteries
had given no idea of their numbers. At 3 a.m. on June 7th we knew. It was yet dark when the battle
flickering sheet of lightning. Nowhere did darkness seem to reign undisturbed. And the noise! I had
As soon as it broke loose we were all out on top of our trenches, watching in little danger ourselves,
for five or ten minutes we were all shaking as with ague. Not that we were afraid. Rather jokes were
had been sleeping were, “—, I believe there’s a war on.” “Wot war?” I asked, and so on—banter
throwing right and left at the top of our voices. He was wounded later in the day. With the first burst
precedence over the flashes of the guns, groups of prisoners, white faced and terror-stricken, began to
stream back along the previously arranged routes. Our own slightly wounded in the first rush were
help the later advances. By 8 a.m. the first three lines had been taken absolutely up to time, and the
take the fourth line at a time to be arranged, so all the morning we laid about in the open, basking in
think that we weren’t to go over after all; but at 12 noon the order came, and in half an hour we were
off point. And we were neither Colonials or Irish, but simply lads of London and the country who
were to do this.
whole distance was simply a climbing from one shell hole to another, so pitted was the ground.
Meanwhile the fierce heat of the sun, and heaviness of our equipment, the distance to the enemy
the open waiting for our own barrage to lift. Then the fatal hour arrived, and up and over we went
again, this time actually attacking over fresh country from the third to the fourth objective. The
through machine gun bullets. Then the marvellous pluck of the British Tommies showed itself.
Nothing could stop them - not a thousand machine guns. Marvellous luck was with me. Somehow I
rising up within me at being a British officer leading such magnificent Tommies that the capturing of
two machine guns and thirty prisoners en route to our final line seemed easy.
their dug-outs. It was all Mercy, Kamarad! Mercy, Kamarad ”’ with lolling tongues and trembling
limbs. Two minutes before they had been attempting to rake us down with their guns, but yet we
remainder of the charge individual men were splendid: Machine guns still swept across us, but one
“wash-outs” to the Bosche with his Rifle. Another man calmly walked about encouraging and helping
dead and wounded and a few scampering away for dear life.
in that trench as never was. Laughing, grimy, filthy—in some cases bloodstained—Tommies joking
and quipping with the spirit of victory in their eyes, although the very last ounce of strength had left
few hours after darkness fell we called the roll. As always must be, some of our bravest and best were
gone out in the “Great Adventure,” but the majority of casualties were only quite slight wounds that
I never was so thirsty as I was that night, and never a drop of water could we get till almost daybreak.
Then we moistened our parched lips and settled down for fifty hours. Friend Bosche tried, but didn’t
Then came an incident, pathetic, but in a measure grand. About midnight on the second night we had
a little burial service which (unworthy) I conducted. But next day in broad daylight our Padre came
there. The other officer and I went and stood by, and so did a few men who were nearest. We were in
full view of any Bosche patrols - and we had seen several - but I knew inside me somewhere that we
An Irishman with a great brogue, and a great way with the boys. If he holds a voluntary service the
boys flock to hear him, a thing I’ve never witnessed before. the whole of that first stunt he was right
RED CROSS HOSPITAL: The new wards will be open to visitors for 2 days.
1917
the east side of the street, he was knocked down by a four-wheeler and one of the wheels ran over
CHEAPER BREAD AND MEAT: Decision by the food controller. Beccles meat was selling for 2s
MILITARY CROSS: 2nd Lieut Allan Darby, London Regiment and Machine Gun Corps, third son
of late AW Darby, JP of Beccles. “He commanded his Machine Gun Company with the greatest skill
rendered the greatest assistance to the infantry.”
CASUALTY: Private F Larke of the Royal West Kent Regt killed. In civil life he was busman for the
Darby’s. 2) Red Cross Society given permission for two seats to be placed in New Market for
POLICE COURT: 4 boys summoned by Mr CC Hall for malicious damage to the Grandstand on the
CROWN and ANCHOR: Mrs Elizabeth Freestone to carry on running the pub in Ballygate while her
SUFFOLK HOTEL, Station Road, William Carter has licence will Lois Beard is doing munitions
work.
Fine
HONOUR FOR SOLDIER: Bombadier Leslie Crisp, serving with a signalling section in France
1917
BECCLES VOLUNTARY ORGANIZATION: Have sent 3751 articles from Beccles, comprising
VISIT OF SUFFOLK ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY to Beccles: Sir Maurice Boileau, Lady
very nice copy of Edward VI’s Prayer Book., printed in 1549, though unfortunately, the title page is
missing. In 1549 there were at least eight impressions of this first issue of Edward VI’s Prayer-book
Edward Whitchurch, and was the fourth of the eight impressions.”
BECCLES STREET NAMES: article by WM Crowfoot
1917
Newgate. In the occupation of RH Elwood, WA Brown, Mrs E Jessup [Purchased RH Elwood £375]
& 9 Manor House Lane. [Purchased RH Elwood £205]
Suffolks from Geldeston. Born 1887. joined the GER service in June 1902.. Enlisted in August 1914,
Recently died of the wounds.
Ralph Thurling, William Waters, Edmund Betts (past winner of swimming championships) &
DEATH OF WALTER DAMANT, youngest son of Charles Damant of Bocking Hall, Helmingham, .
Aged 54. For 33 years in the employment of Messrs Smith & Eastaugh.
old Volunteer of the 14th Suffolks.
CASUALTIES: Gunner EJ Byford, RFA, killed in action. Employed in jobbing Division of Caxton
Private Edmund G Farrow, of Artillery, husband of Bella, eldest daughter of Mr CC Hall, of Beccles
College. Killed in Belgium. He had been recommended for a Commission.
disorderly, lying in the street.
HOUSEBREAKING: Three boys: Edward Alden (16), Ernest Lowe (17) & Frederick Allen (21).
for her brother. Hid money in a book before she went out. Locked the doors and windows. When she
came back, found kitchen door open and 30s stolen. Alden broke in while the others watched
HEMP WEAVING: Letter from HC Botwright, Bungay. 70 years ago I remember seeing the hand
These old world folk were manufacturers in their day. - growing, mardling, beating, spinning and
of the old Almshouses, where the Chaucer Institute now stands, [in Bungay] I have seen the loom in
Puttick (whose husband was a well-known herbalist) lived in one of these almshouses, and we
children used often to go and see her, seldom missing the chance of watching the hemp-weaving
Worsted knitting and stay-making were thriving industries among our womenfolk. In her early days
my wife’s mother got her living by stay-making. These hand-made stays were very stout and straight
DEATH OF BARONESS BERNERS: Emma Harriet Tyrwhitt at Ashwellthorpe aged 81. She was
1853, 3rd Baronet, who died in 1894. The son Sir Raymond owns 12,000 acres.
the cottage and premises on the Plantation on the Common; the Bathing Place and cottage in
PALESTINE DISCOVERIES: Rev Maitland Woods, son of Alfred Woods, one time Mayor of
Beccles, senior Chaplain with the Anzac Mounted Division, found the remains of an early Christian
SALE OF FURNITURE: Instructions from Mr AE Barwood (who is called for Military Service) in
THE WALK
Prizeman, London University. A Splendidly equipped and healthily situated Secondary School for
Boys and Girls, with a Staff of 14 fully qualified Masters and Mistresses. Fees: £7 per annum,
made to increase the accommodation so that a limited number of applicants can still be considered.
Next term begins on 19th September.
1917
BECCLES COLLEGE: Former pupil, Bernard C Oldham obtained a Cadetship at Sandhurst as result
of army examination. He came 32nd out of 1000 candidates, 300 of whom were successful.
distinctly marked in every way from the newer part of the town, that extending from the church
towards the south.
shows that paths from all the surrounding parishes there converge; and that it is still pubic property;
when they foregathered in the open air in the forest court known as the sweinmote, for the settling of
UNOBSCURED LIGHT in Ballygate. Col Augustus Baillie of the Lovat Scouts. Bright light from an
RATIONING OF SUGAR: After 30 December. Register now. (Advert by International Stores)
Essential to fill in a form for the household.
a coomb, upon which an order was issued that no corn should pass the boom or chain without a
licence from the justices; that no maltster should make any malt, and that all barley should be sold in
household, but no spice bread. Great care was taken to prevent the making of starch, and every person
was obliged to declare what quantity of corn he had in his possession. The treasurer of the city
two parts barley, one part wheat, one part rye, which was to be sold at 18s a coomb.
CASUALTY LIST: Signaller Frederick Brown, third son of Mr Martin Brown of 30 Denmark Road,
the Colours, and had been serving for about 16 months on the Western Front with the Oxford &
Bucks Light Infantry.
Beccles 16 years ago to work at Elliott & Garrood. He joined the old Garrison Artillery Volunteers,
and continued service with the Howitzer Battery, RFA when taken over by the Territorial
Lance Corporal EG Pipe, of the Oxford & Bucks Light Infantry, youngest son of Mr & Mrs WD
signallers being wiped out. He was employed in the Monotype Department at the Caxton Works
ADULT SCHOOL: Harvest Thanksgiving Service held on Sunday evening. Large audience,
Arthur Pye
SHOP CLOSING HOURS: Shops to close generally at 6pm, but 1 pm on Wednesday. Before
BECCLES COUNTY COURT: Walter Green, miller, applied for possession of a cottage in St
George’s Road in occupation of George Ellis. Defendant said he could not get another house. He left
POLICE COURT: Maurice Woolnough of the White Horse guilty of serving drinks after hours. £2.
1917
Rector, Rev GF Millar, who has resumed his parochial duties after lengthy absence as an Army
COUNCIL: 1) Government needs for paper increased for munitions purposes. Collection of waste
WAR DEAD: On Sunday afternoon a muffled peal was rung upon the bells of the Parish Church (by
kind permission of the Rector) as a tribute of respect to the memory of Lance-Corporal Edwin G
short touches were rang with the bells “full muffled”, “half muffled”, and “open”, after which the age
of the deceased was tolled on the tenor bell. The Company Was: Treble: T Holmes; 2nd: C Parnell;
Rush.
WELSH CHOIR: Grand Evening Concert under Patronage of Brigadier-General F Lee & Officers of
permission of Lieut Col HW Marsham)
CASUALTY LIST: Mr FT Peachey, Victoria Cottage, London Road, has been notified that his son,
head by a piece of shell which killed him instantly. He had been in the army for 15 years and came
from India with the Expeditionary Force in September 1914, since when he had been engaged on the
DCM. This was in connection with an episode which left him the only survivor of his gun, which he
nevertheless served throughout the action. He was 31
the jobbing department of the Caxton Press. - the third employee in that room who has died for the
DEATH OF MAJOR MILES BARNE of Sotterley. Born 1874, educated at Eton & RMA Sandhurst.
BE CAREFUL! SAVE BREAD. Mr Prothero on our food supplies: “If we do our duty as a nation,
even if her submarines triumphed completely over the Allied fleets, and not a grain of cereals came to
this country.” Be Careful! Save Bread!
Ascot Priory on Monday, was born in 1842, and belonged to an old Suffolk family, which has
possessed lands at Woodton in the County of Norfolk since the 15th century. Sir John of Suckling,
ancestors. His father was the Rev. R.A. Suckling, who, after serving some time in the Royal Navy,
was ordained in 1843. R. A. Suckling was a friend of John Keble, who was godfather to his son. The
the University he went to Cuddesdon, thus also coming under the influence of Dr. King, afterwards
Bishop of Lincoln. Mr. Suckling remained an earnest and faithful adherent of the views these
Hamilton, the Bishop of Salisbury, with a title to the parish of Rowde, Wilts. After serving in this
parish or for three years he became Rector of Barsham, Suffolk, his old home, and gave himself to
Vicarage of St. Peter, London Docks, in succession to Father Lowder, but he was scarcely two years
in this parish when the Dean and Chapter of St. Paul’s nominated him Vicar of St. Alban’s, Holborn,
Mr. Suckling was more conciliatory in his methods than his predecessor, and probably desired to
obviously than had been the case at St. Alban’s. But the change of Vicars made no difference in the
continued to visit the parish until his death. Mr. Stanton, who had been ordained with a title to St.
these three earnest men steadily developed the work of the church. New schools and a parish room
were built, a great rood, a new altar and elaborate triptych were erected in the church, and while Dr.
undisturbed.
When, however, Bishop Creighton came to London fresh trouble arose. Certain agitators adopted
consider any suggestion that their services should be revised “until the intimidation of mob law was
at St. Alban’s were framed in a spirit which disregarded the intentions of the Prayer. book, and
directions, and no doubt the sub. mission at St. Alban’s did much to allay the anxieties of a troubled
obedience on this occasion he received the warm commendation of Bishop King. But when the
Lambeth Opinion of 1899 and 1900 against the ceremonial use of incense and the Reservation of the
considerably on Dr. Winnington Ingram becoming the diocesan, and when Dr. Lang, who had
become Bishop of Stepney, conducted a Confirmation service in the church, it was understood that
1908 Mr. Suckling celebrated the 25th year his incumbency, and a large sum of money was collected
and presented to him by his congregation. This money he devoted to a beautiful font-cover which is
incumbency in the summer of last year. He was Warden of the Priory at Ascot in succession to Dr
Pusey, and Superior-General of the Confraternity of the Blessed Sacrament.
but his influence was probably as great as any of the notable men who were his colleagues. His
evident piety and unmistakable humility, combined with quiet strength, endeared him to his people,
memory will be gratefully cherished by a large number of people to whom he was both priest and
friend.
prominent Churchmen besides his former Curate, Father Stanton.
pony and milk cart down Blyburgate, intending to turn into Grove Road on their way to the Railway
JJ King’s confectionery shop, smashing one of the doors, and the glass of both, with a report which
pony being injured.
St MICHAEL’S Arrangements on return of Rector: The Rector attending the Parochial work; Rev
and coming in on Sundays to carry on the Ingate Mission services.
ENTERTAINING THE WOUNDED: 34 Soldiers entertained by Mr & Mrs Jackson in the
river, but downpours of rain prevented this. Sumptuous tea provided.
MINESWEEPER BLOWN UP. Mrs WF Alexander, 5 Sandringham Terrace, near Ingate, informed
been engaged in this work for six months. Previously he was a skipper of a Lowestoft fishing boat.
WAVENEY VALLEY DRAINAGE ACT OF 1866: a commission set up to cleanse and improve the
FEARED LOSS OF BECCLES MEN: George Alexander, of 41 Frederick’s Road, Dickerson and
Gibbens, aged 44, on board a fishing boat, the SD Reliance, sailing from Lowestoft sailing on
married men, the last two with families.
CASUALTY LIST: Private Harry Bloomfield, of the Gloucester Regt killed in action, his wife , of
Press. He leaves five small children.
from the Troops Recreation Committee. This was decided at a meeting of the Urban Sanitary
Councillor Robinson objected about it being done in this way, without full consultation and
PUBLIC HALL: Protest Meeting held in the Corn Hall. Councillor Robinson elected Chairman. On
the platform also Rev WE Davies, secretary of Troops Recreation Sub-Committee, Mr A Elliott and
regrets the action of the Council and ask the Council to reconsider the question.
SALE OF STOCK IN TRADE of Outfitting & Grocery of Mr WC Hawes, Blyburgate.
1917
TOWN COUNCIL: Mr FF Garrood retiring from Council
1917
MILK TRADE: Dairymen not following instructions of Local Food Control Committee. Charging 6d
would not be delivered.
Rendlesham. Mr FT Peachey the Beccles agent.
COAL SUPPLIES to be ascertained and stocks ordered for the town from the coal controller. Meat
price control.. Milk producers must sell milk at the shop at 4d 1/2d a quart.
BECCLES COLLEGE: Old Boy Signaller W Buck of East Surrey Regt killed by German sniper.
BANK CHANGES: Mr EE Larkman resigned as manager of Capital and Counties Bank. Leaving
town to take up voluntary work with the YMCA at Ipswich. Mr AP Nicolle, of the Cirencester branch
CASUALTY LIST: Mr & Mrs Spalding’s 5th . Private C Spalding of Suffolk Regiment killed in
action. He was 21.
Formerly employed in the Monotype department of the Caxton Press
ECONOMISE FOODSTUFFS!: “The harvests of the world will not meet the requirements of
materially reduced. The need for the strictest economy is intensified by the steps which the
Government have taken by reducing prices of essential foodstuffs. Unless these plain facts can be
see no alternative between a rigid economy voluntarily effected and a compulsory system of
SALE: BLYBURGATE: by Mortgagees: LOT 1: [No 63 & 65] Brick & Slated Corner Shop &
boarded and tiled Stable, Cartshed, Hay House, range of boarded and tiled Sheds, and Poultry House.
1917
[Sold as ONE LOT: Purchased by Messrs Owles & Son, Bungay £700]
WOUNDED SOLDIER: Sergt Charles Wiggett of Suffolk Regt, writing: “I was lying in reserve,
made it a bit too hot, and I had to shift. On Thursday night we had orders for the front line,which was
about three and a half miles away. Everything was quiet when we started, and we had nearly got there
very little harm. We arrived at our place about 2 am the next morning, and had to lay about in shell-
holes. It was raining cats and dogs.
am. We were to follow later. Well, at 5.25 the guns started, and we expected to get shelled very
heavily; but I am pleased to say we did not. The time came for us to start, and away we went, the
pill-box; but had not shifted more than six yards from it when a shell dropped only a foot off me. It
blew me yards in the air, and when I came down I felt my leg and arm, and then my head, to ascertain
nearest piece of cover, and having done up my wounds I lay there for a short time and then made my
way back towards the dressing station. I walked the best way I could for a mile, and had another rest;
stretcher bearers arrived.” Eventually he arrived back in England. and Wharncliffe War Hospital.
Middlesex Regt, “when working in the trenches by a shell, which also wounded several of his
down the line and will be buried by our own Chaplain, and a cross erected on the spot.”
Mr & Mrs Barber of 21 Pound Road, informed of the death of their only son, Private George JR
Barber, of the Queen’s Royal West Surrey Regt.. He was killed in action. He was employed for 10 or
being in the Beccles Company for five years without missing a drill or a camp, He went out to France
in July 1916, was sent home with frost-bitten feet in December and on recovery was sent to the
killed in action on 14 October. He worked at Raveningham and was a bell ringer at the Parish
FOOD CONTROL: COMMITTEE: Milk: Mr Self said that the controlled prices of the Committee
kept in the town, which yielded about 40 gallons a day, whereas the normal sales were 400 to 500
December, and under the present orders they were limited to 1s 6d and 1s 8d a gallon.. They would
resume deliveries at 6d a quart until the end of December and 7d a quart January to March. Dr Fox
young and old. The Committee accepted the prices suggested by Mr Self as those to apply.
BUNGAY HERO’S ESCAPE FROM GERMANY. Private H. King, of the 1st Battalion, Norfolk
retirement from Mons. He was fettered to a comrade back to back, and the prisoners were made to
march thus to the German frontier. Asked how he managed to march he replied “I walked forward for
dragged me along the along the line of march, and so on for four days until we reached the end of the
route march.” He next entrained four days.
or so called Red Cross Nurses, offered them sandwiches ; but when the food was about to be
conveyed to the mouth sand and dirt were flung into their faces rendering the sandwiches uneatable.
weather without shelter of any kind. This lying out in the sodden fields was one of the most trying
experiences of his captivity.
stables, and afterwards housed in huts built of single matchboarding which formed very inadequate
were slightly less heart-breaking, for he found better food and better accommodation. However, he
punishment for this insubordinate attitude to his German taskmasters he was shaved from head to foot
to perform such an operation he replied, “It was done under a guard of 10 men with fixed bayonets.”
From Saltau he was taken to Bexten Sistrup. There he worked for 14 hours per day, from 6 o’clock in
boiled preserved swedes and black bread, 15 men to a loaf. Private King spoke with emotion when he
said, “The only thing which kept the British prisoners of war alive was the parcels sent from home.”
to work on a farm. He desired to go there because he had got the hint that men had escaped from that
place.
opportunity of learning, often having to evade the vigilance of the guards in order to do so. This had
all been pre-arranged according to his plan of escape. After learning to swim be tested his powers by
confinement on the following Friday, at 10 minutes past one in the morning. under the very nose of
the sentries, after waiting for the patrols to pass, who came every hour to see if any prisoners were
Holland. There he was most warmly welcomed by the Dutch, as if Holland were his native country,
people travelling twenty miles to see a British soldier.
1917
WORKING MEN’S CO-OPERATIVE: 2083 members. Dividend of 1s 9d in the £
1917
PROMOTION: Company Sergt Major J Meen, of the 5th Suffolks (Beccles Company) to be 2nd
Pells, architect of this town.
for his sixth term. The duties of Mayor had increased enormously as a result of the war. The Mayor
had undertaken them with admirable courage, wise forethought, patience, forbearance, diligence and
Deputy Mayor.
Mr SL Skevens elected to fill the vacancy on the Council on the resignation of Mr Garrood.
DANGEROUS LIGHTS. Letter: On Sunday last from 7.30 to 8.30 pm something like three to four
carrying a light.
the Lovatt Scouts, and the second with the Montgomerys and Denbigh’s at Worlingham. The
costing altogether (with furnishings) £900. It is open from 10am to 9.30pm. Concerts are arranged
weekly.. There are lantern and other lectures, and the Red Triangle Library of 500 volumes. Huge
paper.
Too much cannot be said about the devotion and self-sacrifice of the voluntary lady and other
the Common, are responsible for the counter and kitchen duties.
Worlingham: Average number of men in the camp: 650. number of letters written: 61, 552; number
The Common Marquee: average number of men: 700. Number of letters: 38,454.
The work begun on the Common under Mr & Mrs Benns, assisted by Miss Julia Pells & Mr Womac
CEREMONIAL PARADE to present the Military Cross awarded to Lieut William S Field, who has
since been killed in action, to his father, Mr WS Field, in New Market. The Glamorgan Yeomanry,
Brigadier General Lee
[see details of his experiences 17 July 1917]
1917
1838, Eton & Christchurch, Oxford. Joined the printing firm in which his father was a partner. In the
father he helped to establish “The Law Reports”. He was connected also with the publishing of
“London Master Printers’ Association. He was Master of the Stationers’ Company in 1909. Mr
the businesses were amalgamated in 1880 he was appointed Chairman, until 1915. He was one of the
oldest members of the Athenaeum & Oxford & Cambridge clubs and a Fellow of the Royal Society
FIRST SNOW OF WINTER. A thick carpet of snow covered the ground on Sunday night.
PROMOTION: Sergt P Garnham of the 4th Gloucesters to be 2nd Lieut in that Regiment. Previous to
1917
of the outbreak of war a student at St Luke’s Training College, Exeter.
BECCLES TOWN WAR SAVINGS ASSOCIATION to be formed. At present only a tenth of the
WAR TIME GARDENING: Meeting of the Committee. Prizes given for the best gardens. Spraying
of potatoes been finished.
occupied by Mrs Mobbs, which were reported overrun with rats. The drain to be disconnected to the
sewer.
Lance Corporal Stanley Barnard of the Suffolk Regt. He had just had his 21st birthday. Before
mobilisation he was in the machine department of the Caxton Works. He was a member of the Parish
singing in the annual competitions in East Suffolk.
market gardener at Blundeston before he joined up in March 1917 and went out to Egypt in July with
DRILL HALL: The Lovat Scouts seem to have obtained the Drill Hall by dubious means from the
MARRIAGE OF Rev WS ANDREW, senior Curate of Beccles, with Gladys Barnard Smith,
daughter of Rev BG Barnard Smith, of the Uplands, Carlton Colville, Rector of North Cove. He was
WAR AGRICULTURE. Concerned with getting workers exempted from military service, or obtain
soldier labour for farming.
CURATES LEAVING: Rev WS Andrew to get a Commission as a Chaplain to the Forces. He is
school, Clifton College to work as Assistant Chaplain.
purchased property for £730. [He sold it in 1917 for £700] Had a mortgage of £650.
Beales against Ethel Rayner and Ethel Rayner against Emma Beales The volubility and counter
charges of the women made things. exceptionally lively in Court. Someone made provocative
fish shop in Ravensmere. There were high words and a general scrimmage, during which the women
rolled over each other, and dealt out blows as opportunity offered.
on top of her when she was thrown to the ground. Two witnesses were called by Mrs Oxborough.
They said Mrs Beales started on Mrs Rayner and struck the first blow. She denied having struck Mrs
The Bench dismissed all three cases. The Mayor said they should help their husbands by keeping the
peace, when they were away fighting their country’s battles.
Old Mill Terrace; Frank Oxborough lived at 64 Blyburgate or James Oxborough at 22 Old Mill
Terrace.]
milliner in the employment of Mr JC Macbeth. The boy was employed as an errand boy. He took a
purse from Miss Last’s drawer in the workroom and hid it under a brick in the White Lion Yard. He
to Yarmouth and bought apples, sweets, cockles, mussels and cigarettes. He was put on probation for
SALE OF FURNITURE: New Market: White Horse Inn. Mr LM Woolnough (who declines the
CHRISTMAS CHEER: While the duty of practising strict economy is being preached everywhere,
make the business of shopping very trying, for necessary articles are all very scarce and dear. Even
the Christmas plum pudding is threatened, not because the housewife would willingly forego its
sheer lack of material to make them. Raisins in small quantities only are to be had at 2s 4d per lb if
the customer is fortunate; but currants and sultanas are practically taboo. Butter is 2s 6d per lb,
oranges (practically off the map) 4d each. Turkeys are 2s 6d per lb, chickens 2s. The traders in the
town are doing their best. Indeed the drapery and fancy shop fronts are displaying a marvellous
PROMOTION: Thomas Turner, assistant master at the National School, late of 28 Station Road, to
be 2nd Lieut in the Bedfordshire Regt
esteemed resident in the borough, attained her 99th birthday on Tuesday.
WATERWORKS COMPANY There are now 1618 houses supplied by the company. Mr TH Pearce
MEATLESS DAYS The Food Controller decrees that on one day a week no meat to be sold raw or
cooked
ourselves and our Allies during the next twelve months unless our present rate of consumption is
Government have taken by reducing prices of essential foodstuffs. Unless these plain facts can be
see no alternative between a rigid economy voluntarily effected and a compulsory system of
NOTICE: EAST SUFFOLK GAZETTE: Owing to the greatly augmented cost of paper and
production we are obliged to increase the price of our paper to Twopence from and including our
Halfpence]
THIS YEAR’S END: Two events alone would suffice to make the year through which we have just
hitherto given us little but “red ruin and the breaking of laws.” But the most appalling political
tradition of isolation from the affairs of Europe has been broken down. War, the great divider of men,
PROMOTION: Sergeant FH Barton of the London Regiment , has been gazetted a 2nd Lieutenant in
DIAMOND WEDDING: Mr & Mrs J Ellwood of 1a Caxton Road celebrated their Diamond
Wedding on Christmas Day. They have twelve grandsons fighting in the War; ten in the army and
APPOINTMENT: Cadet CE Pells, No 15 Officers’ Cadet Battalion, a 2nd Lieut in the Special
Reserve of Officers, and posted to the 3rd Battalion Devonshire Regiment.
onions to 3d per lb., and prohibiting the retail sale of more than 7lbs in any one week to any
purchaser, household, institution or catering business. Sales by wholesale may only be made for the
HOME KILLED BEEF PRICES. The Food Controller has authorised the addition of a half-penny per
lb. to the maximum wholesale home-killed beef prices. No cattle may be bought for slaughter except
A MISSING LADY Mrs Wilson, of Quilter Road, Felixstowe, on a visit and intending to spend
Christmas with her sister Miss Pells, The Walk, has been missing since the evening of the 21st
Search has been made, but up to the present without avail.
MENTIONED FOR GALLANT SERVICE on the Western Front in Sir Douglas Haig’s dispatch is
to the war held the post of Drill Instructor to the Beccles Battery and also Brigade Sergeant-Major of
WHITE CHRISTMAS for the first time for several years. On Boxing Day there was a thick carpet of
near London Road, between munition lady workers and a team drawn from the RAMC, who played
crowd of people, who derived much amusement from the display..
FOOD COMMITTEE H Copeman, WWT Youngman & W Woolner represented the butchers. The
prices and were opposed to any reduction in the present scale. Application for registration of retail
sales of bacon, ham and lard and also of sugar were dealt with.
1918
THE PARISH CHURCH bells were rung at intervals on Christmas Day, the peals sounding the more
pleasantly to the ear after the long silence which war-time conditions impose. Carols were sung in the
SUDDEN DEATH of Alice Hurren employed in the bindery department of the Caxton Press for 44
years. She lived with her mother in Newgate.
with its Mission Church. Taking up post as chaplain and assistant master and house tutor at his old
school Clifton College. Mr JS Palmer & Mr C Watson gave presents from the congregation. Their
Club also gave a present.
LOCAL HONOUR for Roger C Dent, scholar of Felsted School, formerly of the Fauconberge
CHOIR OF LEAGUE OF HONOUR conducted by Miss Champion gave Carol Concert, raised £4 for
CASUALTY LIST: Ernest Robert Branford, of the London Royal Engineers son of James S
Mr & Mrs Shiplee, New Market, youngest son Private James Shiplee, of Suffolk Regt attached to /4
employed by Mr Frost, the painter. This is their second son killed in the War
GRAND EVENING CONCERT in Congregational Schoolroom, kindly lent by Major Mowatt of the
Concerts”.
A SHOCKING INCIDENT. Such a sight as I witnessed on the night of Sunday 23v December ought
to be supported by their comrades on either side. Now I say nothing of the outrage to public decency
lady exclaim “What an awful thing! They are mere boys, and their mothers anxiously praying for
police, the regular police, the Army officers, and above all the publicans, that such things can
WANTED GENERAL SERVANT by Mrs TJ Self, 14, Frederick’s Road.
PRICE OF MILK by order of the Local Food Controller increased to 7d a quart. Sugar ration to be
1918
LOCAL HONOUR Lieut (now Capt) Roland Charles Bolingbroke DCM, Suffolk Regt awarded
Military Cross. He was wounded in the shoulder at the time of winning this distinction..
Mr R Norman aged 88 & Mr D Merrell 77.
THE NEW YEAR: In the New Market as the passing of the old year into the new approached, a large
may bring peace to sorely tried nations was welcomed with cheers, while the pipers piped cheerily
and good wishes were exchanged.
into cultivation. It once let at 44s an acre, good corn crops grown on it. County Agricultural
committee suggested Nationalisation of the land.
at Beccles. Since 1892 constant course of crime, stealing, fraud, false pretences etc. Numerous times
in prison.
letter from him as prisoner of war at Munster., Westphalia
died at a stationary hospital in Egypt on Jan 3. He was severely wounded in the neck & spine on 28
Egypt nearly 2 years and was twice wounded
margarine, tea and cheese, each householder given a card for use at one retailer only, of their choice
LICENCES: The White Horse, New Market, to George Sharman; The Bear & Bells, Old Market, to
GREAT DEEDS BY NORFOLKS AND SUFFOLKS. A graphic story of the part played by the East
Anglian Troops in the fighting that preceded the fall of Jerusalem is told by a staff officer who has
submarine.
“Some of the most brilliant fighting of the operations which brought about the fall of Jerusalem was
steadily until it was brought to a standstill by superior enemy forces. The enemy then attempted
heavy counter-attacks, and made some headway until they came up against the Norfolks, who were
four separate battalions against the one of the Norfolks. A particularly fierce action developed, in the
course of which the Norfolks had to withstand five successive attacks, two of which resulted in hand
The Turks fought their way into our trenches, and refused to be driven out. They held on with
wonderful tenacity, and several Companies had to be shot down to a man, because they would neither
with the dead bodies littered about in heaps. Every second live men were running up, coming against
“In spite of their terrible losses the Turks kept pouring in fresh troops, and by the afternoon the
by which retreat was possible if the worst happened, was swept by the enemy guns, and they were
Suffolks were ordered forward, and they made their attack at a point where the enemy were develop-
ing their enveloping movement. The Suffolks moved steadily forward under a hail of bullets, giving
squadrons of Turkish cavalry came to the attack at the gallop. They were on the Suffolks before the
latter knew fully what was happening, but the battalion quickly formed square in the good old
Some of the horses took fright, reared back, wheeled round and rode off, spreading confusion among
came together, but some of the Turkish horsemen were plucky fellows, and they actually hurled
“The mere advance of the Suffolks had eased the pressure on the Norfolks, and the latter were now
they flung back the enemy forces massing behind the cavalry to hold up the Suffolks, and before the
enemy could recover from this setback the Norfolks were on them again. The Suffolks advanced at
positions of great strength.
No sooner were these gained than the enemy counter-attacked, but so well did the two East Anglian
they were well astride of the main road to Jerusalem. Once the East Anglians reached that point it
was a comparatively simple matter for our men to work forward until all the hills encircling the Holy
‘General Allenby personally thanked the East Anglians for their work, and in recognition of it they
were given the post of honour when the city was entered later.”
employed as electrical engineer at the Caxton Works
LABOUR REPRESENTATION: A meeting convened by the Lowestoft & District Trades & Labour
council.
MINISTRY OF MUNITIONS Free Training for Munitions Workers (men & women) at Leiston
Service, who undertake to enter Munition Factories on completion of training. The Course is for six
WINTRY WEATHER The coldest days of the year, with snow that had drifted a foot deep.
1918
week. Ministry of Food instructed that butchers must have certificate to purchase half what they
Application approved for two bakers to purchase potatoes for use in bread.
MILK SELLERS TO BE LICENSED
1918
West, Norfolk Regt, saying he has been wounded in the face & is a prisoner of war in Germany.
LOCAL HONOUR: In General Allenby’s list of “mentions” was the name of Major (temporary Lieut
FOUND DEAD: Mr Charles Elvin, retired engine driver, aged 67, found dead in his house, 11
Shaw’s Yard, Ravensmere. He lived alone.
or game to be served in any public eating place. No meat between 5am & 10.30 am any day. No milk
to be served as a drink, except in tea or coffee and to children under 10.
and very little notice will be practicable
EXPENSIVE INMATE Recently died at Shipmeadow Union House an old lady who was admitted to
OLD SOCKS The Beccles Volunteer Organisation has received a requisition for a large number of
thumbless mittens for soldiers with directions for making them out of old socks, also for converting
DEATH AFTER ACTIVE SERVICE Seaman Kenneth Gower, aged 21, eldest son of Mr & Mrs
A LABOUR COUNCIL held, AH Pye (typographical Association) elected President. Representatives
MARMALADE & JAM PRICES FIXED
1918
Derbyshire Regt has been wounded & in hospital at Dannes, Camiero.
RESCUE ATTEMPT BY BECCLES LADY. Miss Rix, daughter of Mr FS Rix was cycling along
clothed to try to rescue him. He drowned. She was highly praised by the coroner.
NEW CURATE: Rev WE Duxson arriving soon.
1918
elm and poplar, 24 standing pollards on the Avenue & 2 ash
1918
MILITARY MEDALISTS.—Writing to Mr. J. S. of Palmer, from Palestine, under date December
stiff preparation we carried the Turks’ first line of trenches and a few days later he ‘imshied,’ or ran
Our particular piece of his line was El Arish Redoubt, and I met Sergt. Freeman there. He was merry
and bright, but had a bad cold. I had the opportunity of looking through Gaza. The Turk had taken
dilapidated. Of course the natives had left months ago, and we met families going back again on our
forward march.
from Jaffa. We had several tough days fighting here, and then moved further right to a new position.
We attacked again on December 15th, and I again met Sergt. Freeman. He received the Military
useful in establishing communications under fire on December 15th.
We pushed still further on December 22nd, and the Turk did not wait for us, and so we are enjoying a
of oranges. The weather has been particularly vile this last six weeks. Very cold nights and four or
five days’ rain on end.
long we are cut very short in rations. Our Christmas dinner consisted of three quarters of a tin of bully
beef and one biscuit! We are truly thankful for the oranges, as they fill up many a gap.
Communion, which was very nice indeed. One can buy bread, or brown bread, off the Jews for 2s.,
3s. a teacupful, so you see we suffer from the profiteers out here.
get them up here Our last newspapers were dated the beginning of November, so we are not very well
another Christmas, and get back to civilisation once more. I don’t expect I shall know many of the
boys at school now, but should like to wish them a happy and successful new year.
LOT 1: Block of Brick & glazed tile Houses with plaster fronts: ‘Gresham House’: Two large front
Sitting Rooms, cloak room, Kitchen, Scullery, Pantry, four good Bedrooms, three Attics, Bath Room
Dwelling House: two Living Rooms, Scullery, two bedrooms with passage under. [Smallgate 6a]
and on north side: in same style, Dwelling House & Shop, Kitchen, three Bedrooms.
Occupied as two tenements, Comprised a dwelling house on the south side, and a dwelling house and
shop on the north side. [Withdrawn at £400]
No 18: Front Sitting Room, Back Sitting Room, Kitchen, Pantry, Cellar, four Bedrooms
No 20: Two Front Sitting Rooms, Back Room with small Conservatory adjoining, Scullery, Cellar,
Frontage of 53ft. Rent £33.
[ Sold to Mr GM Riches for the Co-Operative Society which the property adjoins for £525]
A brick, stone and slated Modern Dwelling House, containing six rooms. Freehold
[Purchased by Mr F Brown £255]
1918
MAN HONOURED Captain Albert Colin Darby, son of the late Albert Darby & Mrs Darby awarded
the “Khurweiljeh Heights” in Palestine.
DEATH of Mr JA Wilkinson, aged 22, son of Mr & Mrs John Quinton Wilkinson of Ashman’s Road.
Guy’s Hospital & died.
CASUALTY LIST: Mr & Mrs J Clark of 8 Station Road notified of the death of their son, Sergt DA
THE BUNGAY MILLIONAIRE.
intimately an old lady who had known Matthias Kerrison in her youth, perhaps the following account
“Old Matt” Kerrison, as he was always familiarly called, was a person of great character and
lived anywhere except at his residence at Bungay Staithe, called “the Staithe House,” and now pulled
down.
goes that when his grandson, Sir Edward Kerrison, was visiting Bungay, some man came and
presented him with a small cask which he said his grandfather had made.
General Sir Edward Kerrison, K.G.B., of whom it was said, his father tried to induce him to follow
his own trade, &e., but the military instinct was too strong and the young man left home and enlisted
his son’s well-earned rank and honours. He bought largely in landed property, and all with a view to
making this beloved son a large landowner, and there is a story that he made his son ascend one day
all yours, hey, it’s all yours!”
General Sir Edward Kerrison had one son, another Sir Edward, who died without issue, and three
daughter, Lady Bateman, is still alive, happily, and inherited much of her brother’s landed property.
The Kerrison family have not, however, owned any property at Bungay for many years past. There is
states they are buried beneath.
existence the account book, in which he was expected to keep an the accounts of disbursements for a
pocket “ and so well known was he, that no one complained or grumbled at this.
“Old Matt” used to keep open house and have large parties of his friends; but he still clung to the
customs of his youth, and when a large and fashionable party were sitting round the dinner table
round, bor, beer ‘em all round.” He had a keen eye for beauty, and at one of these parties for Bungay
Fair, a very pretty girl was among the guests. The old gentleman eyed her with much interest, and
The young lady of course consented, and to her surprise was led up to a looking-glass, and he told
her, her own fair reflection was this “ prettiest thing,’’ and promptly (in the fashion of the day) gave
ears, or tried to.
Another story tells how one of his great aversions was Mr. Sparrow, of Worlingham hall, and on one
propose a toast. When it came to “Old Matt’s “ turn, he announced, “ Gentlemen, I give you a toast
we’ll all drink, “Mair corn and fewer Sparrows,” looking hard at Mr. Sparrow, meanwhile. His
have appreciated the joke more than did Mr. Sparrow.
I cannot say I ever heard how “Old Matt” amassed his large fortune, bet he was a shrewd and clever
take advantage of; but there was never any suspicion of unfair dealing attached to his name, and his
extensive.What better report could any man leave behind him?
1918
KELTIC PLACE NAMES IN GELDESTON by J Chambers & 19 Feb
soldier refers to a visit by Turkish aeroplanes, dropping bombs, and adds that the day aftertwenty-five
of ours went over and dropped a few “for luck.” We don’t stay anywhere long now (in December),
and also to taste them fresh plucked from the trees—altogether different to those you get it in
England.
least the artillery have, and the Turks had enough of it. They re cleared out and went back 30 miles.
hills and stayed there. The Turks came back about 20 miles, when they found we were not following
where we had a great surprise, as it turned out to be a Jewish colony.
gave us a very hearty welcome. Nearly all the men could speak English, and a lot of the women and
children too. We stopped in the centre of the village, near the pumping - station, and soon had a
starched collars, silk ties, serge suits, black end brown boots, furs, muffs, and umbrellas—and all the
people were eager for news about the war. I gave an old man an old copy of the Times, and he soon
Russia and Italy had not got a separate peace, and that England was not invaded.
The German officers with the Turks had told them all sorts of tales. The village folks said the Turks
good to them they smashed. The people seemed a bit nervous of us, so we asked them what they were
afraid of. They replied that they were afraid we should take all the food, as they had been told we
We had had a few days rough, and when we got there we found plenty of water, &e., so we shaved
and washed, &c., tea was made. A lot of the people seemed to be knocking their heads together about
corporal) asked the interpreter whet was wrong. He said they were crying because they were pleased
we had come.
bread. When that was given they wanted tobacco, and then wine; and they took whatever they fancied
yourselves and ask us where you can buy tobacco. We had not had a smoke for about a fortnight, and
It was Saturday when we marched in, and that is the Jews Sunday, on which day they neither sell nor
everyone had something to say to us, if it was only “good morning.” The - Jewish greeting is”
Shalom,” and means “Peace be with you.” One old boy called us into his house, and brought out wine
honey. They have had no sugar for two years; but use honey and some jam stuff they make from
crushed raisins. At another house we had tea in glasses without milk, sweetened with raisin jam. Next
house, and a good job for us, for it did not half rain. The rain made the roads so bad that we had to go
on emergency rations. On Christmas day we had a glorious dinner of “bully” and biscuits. But we
All this country is covered with deep wadis, and when it rains they get full of water which rush along
like mad. In one the water rose
of the Old Abbey Farm, Leiston and 14 Quilter Road, Felixstowe. Mr Nathaniel Pells, retired miller
of The Hollies, Frederick’s Road identified the body of his sister. She came to stay with him on
Pells at 5, The Walk. During her stay she had complained of depression and nervousness, but he had
never known her to threaten her life. She had been very upset by air raids and firing of anti-aircraft
Miss Julia Pells:- On December 21st Elizabeth accompanied her sister to a social concert at the Public
She was gone away only a short time, but when she returned Elizabeth had disappeared and she had
Miss Rosa Kellam, 81 Grove (Ingate) Road had sat next to her in the concert and noticed she was
Jury found that deceased took her life, and she was of unsound mind at the time.
WEDDING Captain Sydney L Webber of Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry, son of Dr ML Webber
1918
Francis E Banham (a former Mayor of Beccles) & Mrs Banham, at St Benet’s Church
BECCLES MOTHER’S NEGLECT Kate Francis of Frederick’s Road, wife of soldier on active
children were removed to the Workhouse after visits by Dr Fox. Sentenced to prison for three months
DEATH OF SERGEANT-MAJOR C BARKHAM, aged 79, was drill instructor in Beccles for many
Beccles until the death of his wife in 1915 became a Chelsea Pensioner. In his early life served with
LOCAL HONOUR The Belgian decoration of Croix de Guerre to Sergt Basil Hall, Kings Royal
Rifles, 5th son of Mr Sidney H Hall of 118 Denmark Road. He volunteered from South America in
still serving, four in the army and one in the navy.
FOOD COMMITTEE Decided to adopt Home Counties scheme for rationing butter, margarine and
WASLEY YOUNGMAN, butcher thanks for support of 21 years in Beccles. He had decided to close
his shop, owing to ill health,. “Stafford House” Beccles
£17,500 from Beccles, sufficient to pay for seven aeroplanes
BECCLES LIBRARY, 2 London Road. For 2s 6d people can borrow 4 books at a time & have full
FOOD CONTROL COMMITTEE: Room available at the Fire Station for the storage of Margarine..
The schools to be closed for three days to enable the teachers to visit every house in the town to
WEDDING: Miss Violet Cameron Betts, younger daughter of Mr CC Betts & Sergeant Arthur
Murray Jones of RAMC, elder son of Mr AS Jones of 10 Bournemouth Gardens, Folkestone
First class speaker, Major Rigg, on Wednesday, when two concerts would be held in the Public Hall.
townspeople. Window bills for schools and shops.. Big board outside the Public Hall. Advertisers
Aerodrome Authorities asked to drop leaflets on the town.. Aeroplane exhibited in the New Market if
SOLDIER KILLED BY HORSE. Driver in the RFA attached to the Army Veterinary Corps, aged 45,
kicked by horse in Blackboy Meadow, died from blood poisoning.. Dr H Wood-Hill, surgeon in
FOOD CONTROL COMMITTEE The Elementary Teachers had completed their house to house
visits for information on ration cards. Meat rationing would start on 11 April.. Many of Mr
Mr Sampson had been unable to get any meat during the week.
WAR BONDS WEEK Advertisers and the East Suffolk Gazette thanked for their advertisements.
“The Valley of Laughter”, Violin solos with Piano accompaniment of Mendelssohn by two Private
soldiers, In the evening the Public Hall was packed for the “Wing Boys” Concert, many people
Aeroplanes circled over Beccles on Friday afternoon and again on Saturday and dropped leaflets
asking the people to buy War Bonds.
1918
1918
MILITARY MEDAL awarded to Private RA Self, West Yorkshire Regt for bravery in the Field.
PROMOTION: Lieut & Quartermaster JL Driver, son of Mrs E Driver, late of Suffolk Inn appointed
BILLIARDS FINAL; Mr A McQueen won the game by 21 points, played at the King’s Head.
1918
on 3 May 1917 was killed on that date.
17,900 Tons. Lord Rhondda & Mr Prothero appeal to every man who has a Farm, a Garden, or an
MAXIMUM FISH PRICES SET for producers, wholesale merchants & retailers.
MILK DEALER FINED, Mr John Wells, wholesaler dealer of Strathville, Beccles guilty of selling
1918
FAUCONBERGE SCHOOL: Mr TC Smith retiring from Headmastership. His tenure of office
marked with conspicuous success, school greatly increased in numbers.
music-hall, cinema etc to continue after 10.30 pm. All users of gas & electricity restricted to 5/6ths of
TRACTOR PLOUGHMEN ENTERTAINED by Mr W Robinson. Men told of serious food position
URBAN SANITARY AUTHORITY 1. Most of the trees in the Avenue had been cut down and
week at £5, but a further week may be necessary. 4. The military state that they will require the use of
the Common again this summer. 5. The Deputy Surveyor, Mr CW Pritchard resigned. on account of
the Borough Surveyor (in the forces) offered the services of his father, retired Borough Surveyor of
Lowestoft for the duration of the war. Accepted.
1918
AWARD OF DCM to L/Cpl Robert Lawrance for conspicuous gallantry and bravery during the
attack on Gaza on 2 Nov last year. He is 3rd son of Mr & Mrs HG Lawrance of Beccles. He joined
CASUALTY LIST: Mr HG Lewell of Ditchingham Mills, formerly of Beccles, heard that his son
Sergt Leslie Lewell killed in action in Palestine. He had been nine years in the Suffolk Yeomanry,
FOOD CONTROL: Letter from Mr Chase saying that his man could not carry on single handed.
Suggested he {Mr Chase] was demobilised. With the closure of Mr Youngman’s butcher’s business
SALE: BALLYGATE: Builder’s Stock in Trade of Mr E Davey.[not listed in 1913 Directory]
ADVERTISEMENT: INTERNATIONAL STORES: Registration for food being extended.
1918
PROMOTION: Lieutenant & Quartermaster E Boulter, ASC, son of Mrs Boulter, Kilbrack Road, to
WILL OF Mrs SUSANNAH BOWEN, lately of Hermon, Waveney Road left £55,300. A lot of
EASTER OFFERING: The Rector does not wish there to be one during the war.
1918
“Protests at continued use of barley in the manufacture of beer, bearing in mind the need of using
such for the increase of supply of food for human consumption.”
Volunteers under the command of Lieut CC Hall attended the morning service. There was no sermon.
CASUALTY LIST: Mr JJ King, baker, 2 Grove Road informed his son Private Bertie King, of the
Page Missing
SALE: SALTGATE: Hill House; 3 Reception Rooms (Dining Room 18x12ft) 6 good Bedroom,
1918
Small Garden. Particulars: Read, Stanford etc
AN EYESORE: Sir, As every available space is being made use of for the cultivation of vegetables,
the unsightly erections and cultivate it himself, or allow someone near by to make use of it as a
garden? This ground has been an eye-sore to the townspeople for a considerable length of time.
NEW CALL UP from Director General of National Service: wholesale withdrawl of Tribunal
exemptions (as distinct from certificates held by miners, transport and munition workers) Thousands
many of them will be in the army. They & their employers will have no right to apply for renewal of
exemption: domestic servants, commercial travellers, bill-posters, barbers, jockeys, shop assistants,
masons etc are deprived of exemption.
trades, clerks, collectors of house refuse etc are deprived of exemption.
The flag flying half-mast over St. Michael’s Tower, the tolling of the muffled bell, the shading of
noon, on Wednesday, the 10th inst., bore testimony to the universal desire to pay honour and respect
The Lord Bishop of the diocese honoured the family and the town by taking part in the funeral rites,
F. G. Millar, Rector of Beccles. The Mayor (Councillor E. J. Hindes) and Corporation attended in
State, and nearly all the local clergy and magistrates were present at the funeral. We are asked to state
and Bungay County Courts, and Mr. G. Watson, Headmaster of Sir John Leman Secondary School,
were unable to be present.
with crepe) and Supt. J. E. Newson, was accompanied by the Deputy-Mayor (Alderman Pells) and
Town Clerk (Mr. W. Bryan Forward) in their robes of office, Aldermen Buck, Watson, and
Skevens; Mr. A. R. Scott (borough auditor), Mr. Bryant (Food Control Inspector), and Mr. A.
McQueen, CC. While the congregation were assembling, the organist (Mr. Warder W. Harvey)
Paul, Mendelssohn), and “O rest in the Lord” (Mendelssohn), the beautiful melody of the last-named
sounding sweetly and reposefully as the body was borne into the church, preceded by the Bishop,
The 90th Psalm was chanted by the choir to Turton; the Lesson from the 1st Epistle to the
Corinthians was most impressively read by the Bishop, and then a hymn was sung, “O God, our help
singing the responses. The hymn, “For all the saints who from their labours rest,” was next sung, and
flowers, was wheeled down the centre aisle and out by the west door of the church, the organist
Mrs. Wood Hill (daughter), Dr. H. Wood Hill (son-in-law), and the Rev. R. Nevill (cousin); others in
Mrs. Macdonald. A procession was formed outside the church, and included, several private carriages
sent by Mr. and Mrs. Edward Ellis, of Shadingfleld Hall, and others. Amongst those who followed to
Duxson (curate), Rev. A. Coates (Barsham), Rev. E. Davis (Worlingham), Rev. Canon G. F. Smith
Rewse, R.D. (Southelmham St. Margaret), Rev. Morley Smith (Geldeston), Rev. A. Huddle (St.
(Beccles), Rev. H. J. Ferrall (Heckingham), Rev. H. E. Bucke (Mettingham), Rev. A. Garner
(Ellough), Rev. Guy Clowes (Weston), and Rev. C. A. Green (Wesleyan minister); Mr. F. W. D.
Combo, late 2nd Vol. B.N.R. (Ipswich), Colonel Lockhart Smith (Ellingham Hall), Mr. and Mrs. J.
A. Bezant (Mettingham), Mr. W. B. Easter, Mr. F. S. Rix (late Clerk to the Beccles Bench), Mr. S.
C.C. Hall (Beccles College), Mr. S. F. Pells (Brighton), Mr. H. A. Grimmer (Mettingham), Mr. G. A.
Stanford, Mr. L. G. Laws, Mr. W. T. Campling, Mr. C. Martin, Mr. J. S. Palmer, Mr. H. C. Dunt, Mr.
Mr. D. C. Smith, Mr. W. E. Downing, Mr. R. Tilney, Mr. Lister (late North Cove Hall), Mr. A.
Robinson (Shipmeadow). Mr. Frost. Mr. Kellam, Mr. Grayston, Mr. C. Betts, Mr. C. Carpenter,
T.Peachey, Mr. Garwood Ingate, Mr. J. F. Morris (Kirby Cane), Mr. W. Peck (Gillingham), Mr.
Mr. T. H. Pearce, Mr. G. Grirnson, Mr.Ayres, and lady officers of the Salvation Army,
At a meeting of the Town Council, on Monday evening, the Mayor said: You will, I know, wish to
town has sustained by the death Mr. William Miller Crowfoot. It is indeed a great loss. Mr.
Crowfoot throughout his long life, and from early manhood quite up to the end was always prominent
for the betterment in every possible way of its inhabitants. Amongst the many services to the town he
filled the office of Mayor on two separate occasions. If I may be allowed to offer my personal
strength. He has given much valuable aid in my office as Mayor in these times of stress. We shall not
of a life spent in the fear of God and in the service of his fellowmen. The Mayor moved that a
unanimously agreed to in silent upstanding.
aged 26, Sergeant in the Ox & Bucks Light Infantry died from wounds received in action. He was
assistant master at the Council School at Woodbridge before joining up in Sept 1914. This is their
CASUALTY LIST: Mr & Mrs Filby, 2 Ballygate received news that their son Private Alan Filby had
been killed in action. He had previously served in East Africa & France & had previously been
Mrs Leon, 1 Queen’s Road told that her husband, Private H Leon of the Essex Regiment had been
killed on the Western Front. He was a compositor at the Caxton Press, and took an active part in
SALE OF STOCK: ROOK’S LANE: Mr G Sampson disposing of surplus stock.
MEAT RATIONING Offal can be obtained at twice its value on the ration
1918
signaller on the West front “after the most strenuous and dangerous fortnight,” he writes, “that I have
experienced the last three years. Been quite impossible to write, and almost impossible to get a field
anywhere. We were suddenly rushed down into the thick of it -- a 50 mile journey by motor-buses.
After a considerable walk, established headquarters in a farmhouse, and from that period we were
out before the farm buildings were shelled and set on fire. Altogether we had 14 headquarters in six
On several occasions have turn out and line hedges and ditches, assisting infantry; but fortunately
goodness I have come through it safely, and none the worse for a trying time, except a natural
It was almost impossible to sleep for any length of time. One would try and settle down, Bosche start
shelling, and away we go, and so on ad infinitum. Don’t think averaged more than three or four
would, scarcely have recognized me a few days ago. No chance of washing or shaving. I had a brief
swill about twice during the fortnight. Didn’t take anything off, not even boots or equipment. Guess I
muck in together. On one occasion I was dozing next to a Brigadier, and on anther a Colonel
apologized for disturbing me in the same ditch. Rather reversing the usual order of things, isn’t it ?
farm about 500 yards behind the line, or what corresponded for the line. This farm was occupied,
cultivated, and the land practically untouched by shells; and even farms 100 yards from the front line
captured when the Bosche advanced—mostly old folk who steadfastly refused to evacuate, too
ignorant to appreciate their peril.
behind a bit of cover before they spotted us, and eventually got away all right -- a nervy experience.
Our boys did splendidly. True to their great reputation, they scarcely yielded an inch even when both
fortunate in that respect, very few losses. I think the most unfortunate hardship has been lack of
wounded men are being granted 14 days leave to Blighty upon discharge from hospital ... several
quite happy with visions of Blighty.”
1918
CALL FOR WOMEN WORKERS : Colonel Miller: “Important to get every woman possible to take
had done invaluable work; but there were still thousands of women in this country who were really
doing nothing to help in the war. He happened to be in France when war broke out. Motoring
they had done it in the most able and fearless manner. It was wonderful to see how the farms went on,
He remembered once coming out of Arras. As he turned a corner which was known as Dead Man’s
of the corner he saw a farmer’s wife leaning against a gatepost, knitting a sock, and she looked up
slightest notice of the firing.
Women were wanted as volunteers; but he was perfectly certain if they did not come forward
they could finish this war.
DEATH OF Mr William B England. Corn and Coal merchant and general forager in succession to
CASUALTY LIST: Mrs Harper, 60 Ingate notified that her son, Private F Harper of the Suffolk
Regiment has been killed in France. She has now lost both her sons. Formerly he was employed by
Mrs Gooderham, 1 Sandringham Terrace has learnt that her husband, Sergt JT Gooderham, King’s
Liverpool Regt has been killed. He was night watchman at the Caxton Press: prior to that he was a
8 children.. He was buried in Borne Cemetery.
Mr Amis, 18 Old Mill Terrace informed that his son, Private Ernest Amis of the Royal Fuseliers
BECCLES BOYS IN PALESTINE
the hilly country in which military operations have been carried out, and the splendid work of his
where the battery “dug in” so as to obscure themselves from view. The ground was like iron, but after
position camouflaged. “It was a brilliant piece of work,” the writer says, “but our men are bricks
“ Johnny’s” guns. Then “bang,” and the remnants of their previous night’s cookery fire took an
opened fire, the enemy retaliated, and gave them battery fire, sending 60 shots in less than 30
minutes. The battery remained in that position for 14 days, being shelled every day. The enemy
harm, although they secured a 25 yards bracket. “It gave us a turn on more than one occasion, but
they found us not,” and ultimately the enemy suffered a complete rout.
of our Colonel, whom we are now leaving, and whom we have been under since the first attack on
Gaza, I quote them as spoken; ‘N.C.O.’s and men, I am indeed sorry to lose you, for the work of —
made the name for my Brigade that it now holds. You are the best battery of its kind on this front. My
best wishes go with you, and I hope the day will soon come when you are again brought under my
best of wishes go with him.”
“I will now bring you to our last engagement, which took place about ten days ago. We received
strategical points of advantage. We took our guns out of position and advanced two miles on to the
plains, taking up a position behind a long belt of sparse wood. We did not dig in, but got everything
Precisely at the hour ‘Johnny’. gave us a reception by dropping a few 5.9’s, an aeroplane having
mercilessly for some time, and it was then we saw for the first time the result of counter battery work.
our little guns barked with a fierceness spelling death to our would-be destroyers. Our luck was again
occupying the trenches in the wood; and they have nothing only praise to bestow upon their brothers
of the artillery, who did so well on this occasion, and as they told us afterwards they were surprised to
Bob Harvey, young Laws, Shiela Walker, Alfonzo Arbon were there, and warmly shook the boys by
the hand before we left them. We shelled our foes out by 9 a.m., and the infantry were consolidated
hold. It pleased them to see us open fire on a large convoy retreating from the scene of action. It
and waggons follow one after another into mid-air, so accurate were our gunners in laying. As night
mapped out for us, and are now enjoying well earned rest before the next stunt, which will be in full
Before I conclude I have the pleasure to state that Tom Judge has been -promoted to B.S.M. to a new
battery being formed. Good luck to him, but it is a hard parting for me. Nelson Dunn has just been
me to all I know, and tell G. L. he has missed a great deal by not being .with us—for one thing a
great number of shells, and other fancy things too numerous to mention.”
written by an officer in a battery of R.H.A. which was stationed for a considerable time in this
neighbourhood before being sent out to France. The reference is to battles on the West front which
know the show commenced on the 21st, and all that day we hammered away hard. Our “D” Battery
lost two of their guns and “C” lost four, but that night got them back again— a fine piece of work..
Of course there was chaos behind the lines, transport and traffic on the move. Well, at 4 am, the
teams had not arrived, so our Colonel said we must remain that day and stick it till the last, and do
ridge. It was grand work, and we did very good shooting—the men being splendid. The General
congratulated my battery, and said that out fire and that of two guns of “D” Battery, had saved the
We had then two good guns, the rest being out of action. We went into a field, and lay down from 3
we had used all ammunition and must have ‘done in” heaps of Huns. They seemed to be all round as.
could not. Lieut. D. was hit in the ankle, but walked six miles, then went to C.C.S.. and I quite expect
One other was hit in both legs and is now in England. We walked to the new waggon line, eight
miles, and got down about 4 p.m. Captain M. in the meantime bad collected two more guns, so we
heard that we had really been “done in” this time. We wanted guns, guns, guns! The Huns were
pouring along. Next morning the Brigade pulled out and marched to another spot. This time the
very slowly, because there were quite 12 miles of troops transport, etc., going the other way. Next
morning at dawn we moved again—every one was fagged out. That day the Brigade was still in
were said to be just outside the village, so I slung a rifle over my shoulder and collected some
“rounds;” but no Huns—a false alarm. It took a long time to collect the battery because we were all
eggs, cream, butter and bread. It was good—we had been living on bully and biscuits when we could
get them. Next day we rested at the waggon line, but that night we received orders to go into action
most of the meadow on the east side of the pumping station.
PUBLIC HALL to be let to YMCA on same conditions, but town to have it available 2 evenings a
CALL UP OF MEN AGED 45 and 46.
1918
by shrapnel. He was employed as a Compositor at the Caxton Press, and was a bandsman with the
Mrs Lawson, 12 Lady’s Meadow notified her husband Gunner Alfred G Lawson, RGA killed in
action. Formerly employed by Mr G Johnson.
Lance Corporal Benjamin Wiggett, West Yorks Regt reported missing. [Prisoner of War]
MOTOR VOLUNTEER CORPS FORMED: Suffolk Volunteer Regt would have to take first line in
Light Section to bring machine guns to the coast or the Volunteer Field Ambulance. Men would do
supplied when needed. Forty men wanted tonight. Eight enrolled.
Worshipful Company of Feltmakers.. He received his education at the Fauconberge School. He
in 1879. For 15 years he was an officer in the 2nd Norfolk Volunteer Battalion, Norfolk Regiment.
He retired as senior Captain in 1892, when he went round the world, visiting his wife’s relation in
Chairman of the local War Committee, & member of the Great Yarmouth Port & Haven
Commission. Now senior Magistrate of Beccles bench. Has farmed his own land, one of the leading
local force in 1914 and became a Captain, but had to retire owing to ill health.
YOUTHS OF SEVENTEEN: Join the Beccles Volunteers! Apply Mon or Wed evening at the Drill
WOMEN OF BRITAIN: Will you come & cook for the men who are defending your Home? 7,000
cooks & waitresses are wanted now.
1918
1918
SALE OF IRONMONGER’S STOCK IN TRADE; EM Harper.
OFFAL OFF COUPONS: Horseflesh, & Meat Pies. Meat ration increased.
Sergeant. He is youngest son of Mrs FJ Allen, 37 Station Road & was formerly of the Beccles
Artillery Volunteers. He left Beccles 11 years ago & has been home only once (7 years ago) when he
DEATH OF MRS WOOLNER aged 73, wife of a retired member of the Journal’s Staff. She was the
engineer.
awarded the Military Medal. He was sent to hold a canal bridge with his Hotchkiss machine gun and
repulsing repeated enemy attacks and inflicting severe casualties, until all his crew had become
casualties and his machine was put out of action. He the commanded an infantry Lewis gun until
DEATH OF Mr MW SPARLING, aged 59. Carried on business as clothier & outfitter at Beccles for
35 years..
ER Cooper. Inspected by General Percival.
CASUALTY LIST: Mrs Burgess, 3 Shelton Place heard that her husband, L/Cpl TG Burgess of
Mrs Harper, 60 Ingate notified that her eldest son, Private FT Harper, Suffolk Regt, killed in action in
France. Her other son died of wounds in Egypt a few months back.
Volunteer Regt, the Girl Guides, the Land Army with banners, a tumbril containing two pigs, a milk
float and workers in uniform, carrying food produce, forks, spades and hoes. One was leading a sheep
workers. The rear was brought up by the Denbigh Yeomanry bugle Band..
To service in the Parish Church, the to tea in the Rectory Garden.
1918
Kitchener’s Army as a Private and was recommended for a Commission for a daring exploit in
DEATH OF DAVID MERRELLS, farmed at Barsham for 20 years, and was Churchwarden. Took
MENTIONED IN DESPATCHES: Capt HCN Trollope, MC, Suffolk Regt
1918
VOLUNTEER MEDICAL CORPS: North Suffolk requested to provide 68 men. The unit would be
mobilised only in the event of invasion. 10 Drills a month. Dr GR Fox & Dr GH Ransome in charge
WAR-TIME CLUB: A place where Soldiers and girls might meet and .visit in comfort. Committee
formed.
Western Front, formerly of the Caxton Press.
Capt HCN Trollope to be Brigade Major, Suffolk Regt
Beccles, whom he assisted with his business until 1874, when he went as foreman to James Nelson,
BOARD OF GUARDIANS: A letter from Mr T Bent, landlord of the Children’s Home consenting to
the letting of the whole of the Children’s Home at Beccles to a sub-tenant. A portion of the Home had
GAS COMPANY: Chairman, Mr JP Walton. Dividend of 5% less tax. JR Crisp appointed in place of
later WM Crowfoot.
up.
CASUALTY LIST Mrs Bickers, 31 Smallgate notified that her husband, Bombadier G Bickers of the
Minnie Bickers & eldest son of Mr & Mrs George Bickers of St Benedict’s Road.
TEA TO BE RATIONED ?
1918
London Fuseliers killed by shrapnel. Formerly employed in the jobbing department of Caxton Press.
That department has now lost 4 of its members. She is left with four young children. He was 33.
killed. He was a student at St Mark’s College, London. Aged 22.
ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE: Miss Ivy Mitchell, a munition worker at Beccles given Order
the occasion of an accident at an iron works.” [Elliott & Garrood] She is the daughter of Mr G
WITH THE TANKS IN WALES: Sergt Hugh McQueen, Tank Corps Battalion, wounded in Cambrai
Certificates. Five places visited last week took in £1,395,214. They are to remain another 6 weeks.
SALE: FEN LANE: by Executors of Mr Henry Toll Business Premises having frontage of 50ft on
Fen Lane & within 60 Yards of the River Waveney, comprising Brick, Boarded & Slated Corn Mill
spacious granaries and Store Rooms, Brick & Tiled Cart Shed, Workshop, Counting House, Stabling,
Small Garden & Yard in which an extensive business has been carried on many years.
SALE OF HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE: late Mr MW Sparling
SALE: Nos 11 & 13 CAXTON ROAD: by executors of Mr Robert Bloomfield; A pair of Small
1918
& Mr GW Simmonds, with a very fertile garden in rear, having choice fruit trees and a stable, hay
house, cart lodge and cow house for ten, the garden being now let to Mr John Brown. Contains about
PROMOTION Mr Francis Finch, before the war was an assistant master at Beccles Council School,
where he had been scholar and pupil teacher, Second Lieutenant in Royal Horse Artillery and
WAR WEAPONS WEEK: To start 13 July. Hoped to get a Gun & an aeroplane, for exhibition, with
a band and a speaker. Invite Ladies to hold garden meetings; to open centre for sale of War Bonds.
villages invited to participate. The target £17,000.
who died on active service in France on June 12th, was the youngest son of the late Rev. F. A
and was born at the Rectory, Stratford St. Andrew, on June 16, 1871. His home from his fourth year,
Queen’s College, Cambridge, and the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. He passed out of Sandhurst
with honours in 1891, and after a few months in Dresden acquiring a practical knowledge of German,
served with Sir Robert Low’s Force in the relief of Chitral, being awarded the Indian Frontier medal
with clasp, after the storming of the Malakand Pass and the action near Khar at the descent into the
he was on Staff Service in the Uganda Protectorate, being employed in the opening up of the country
the Uganda Rising he received the medal with clasp. Later he was Acting Director of Road Transport
Central Africa medal with clasp. During his stay in Africa, Captain Johnson, as he became in 1900,
heads of hartebeestes and other tropical animals were among the trophies he brought back to England.
In 1901 he married Lilian Dora, elder daughter of the bite Colonel H. Vero Hunt, Indian Staff Corps,
South Africa at Wynberg and Potchefstroom from 1904 to 1909, obtaining his Majority at the end of
this term of service.
went to France with the first Expeditionary Force in August, 1914, was in the Retreat from Mona, and
took part in the miraculous turn of the tide on the Marne. He was mentioned in Viscount French’s
exception of a few months spent on Salisbury Plain training the new troop , and short absences on
leave, he was at the Front during the whole of the present war, being again mentioned iii despatches
invested by His Majesty with the D.S.O. About the same time he received from the French
Government an award of the Order “Pour le Merite Agricole,” in recognition of his services in
he had recently been recommended for promotion as Brigadier-General.
His General writes: “To me it came as a very great shock. Only the other day I saw him apparently in
of the fighting which has taken place since April year in this area. I shall miss him very much. As a
under him, with the result that the work of the A.S.C. in this division has always been perfection. I
division, and was one of the few officers left still who had done so. I have seldom met any man so
by him or that he should see done by others. Only the other day I had a long talk with him about his
future, and although he never expressed a wish that I should do so, I wrote a letter to the authorities
losing him. I little dreamt he would be taken so suddenly by the will of Providence.”
MILITARY MEDAL: Corporal WE Bird, Somerset Light Infantry
Field in France. He is 18 and has been in the army 3 years. Before he was employed by Mr WWT
Youngman, butcher.
Snowden, East Yorkshire Regt posted as missing. He had been in France only 6 weeks. He is 18. Of
the 3 sons in the war, one has lost his leg, one is a prisoner of war in Germany, and one is missing.
Peters on the Worlingham Road, who asked him where he was going. The reply was “To London”.
He wanted to know the way to the railway station, so Private Peters took him to the Police Station.
ORDER FOR “COMPULSORY VOLUNTEERS”. Certain men exempted from military service must
join the Volunteer Force and attend parades.
1918
BRITISH RED CROSS APPEAL for silver and gold objects to be given for funds to help sick &
CASUALTY LIST Mrs Arthur Scowen of Commercial Hotel, Pier Terrace, Lowestoft & Khaki Cafe,
Mrs Simmonds, 37, Queens Road notified that her son Gunner Edward Simmonds, RGA died in the
honours in Beccles Cemetery.. He was 31.
FUEL RATIONING based on number of rooms to house, with maximum quantity allowable.
1918
SUDDEN DEATH of Peter Kearns, one of 5 brothers in the Navy sons of Mrs Kearns, Avondale,
Waveney Road, came home on leave , became ill from influenza, went to the Red Cross Hospital in
by a shell on 25 Sept 1915. The Commander was killed and Mr Kearns was badly wounded, but lived
Castle, stationed with the Grand Fleet.. He was 27.
1918
YOU CAN HELP TO SAVE OUR MEN. Our Borough must help to send a gun to the Front. Shall
that you can afford during the Suffolk War Weapons Week.
SALE: NEW MARKET
with Two Reception and Seven Bedrooms, a Spacious Shop and Garden. Excellent position and
Frontageof 42 feet. suitable for Boarding House, Garage, etc.
LOT 3.—A detached Cottage with walled-in Garden.
LOT 4.—On the Cliff, a block of 3 capital COTTAGES with Garden in Puddingmoor.
READ, STANFORD & OWLES are favoured with instructions from Mrs. C. BARKER, af Thirak, to
Sell by Auction at the KIND’S HEAD HOTEL, BECCLES, on Wednesday, 7th August, 1918, at 4
A range of well-built COTTAGES with good Gardens, being Nos. 15 to 21, Ingate-street. Tenure—
Freehold.
a Branch at Beccles.
LOCAL HONOUR Mr & Mrs F Bryant, 6 Swines Green have heard that their son Sergt AG Bryant
France 29 months and has been twice wounded, once on the Somme and once at Arras.
and flooding some of the low lying houses near the black Boy in Ingate to a depth of several inches.
DEATH OF Mr GARWOOD INGATE from Influenza. He was 63. He was a Bungay man. He
Minister at Brandeston for many years, He was a proof reader at the Caxton Press & Secretary of the
Liberal Association. His Daughters:: Mrs Lindley Watson & Mrs Quinton Robinson.
16s owed in support. Police said she led an immoral life. They had seen soldiers visit the house in
Stepping Hill at night on several occasions.
Division) on view in New Market. Shop lent by Mrs Gipson for purchase of War Savings. Procession
of Boy Scouts, Girl Guides etc. Entertainment put on in Rectory Garden. On Tuesday a gathering at
Military Band played. On Thursday evening meeting at the Hollies, Frederick’s Road. On Friday a
military display, two batteries of artillery, headed by the Lovat Scouts Pipe Band. £43,000 raised for
TOMMY’S LIFE IN HOSPITAL The following letter from a Beccles soldier with an Anti-Aircraft
battery in Italy is of interest to our readers:
and my 19th day “in dock”’ Have just had a visit from the doctor doing his usual morning rounds at
about 10am. You will probably have received my letter by now, telling you that I had left the Counter
S.M.T.O., for I wanted to find out why I couldn’t drive, and how my nerves were affected. Instead I
was in bed seven days at a Field Amb., a fine roomy building, situated some way up the side of a
splendid. Our ward was a fine lofty room, about fifty feet long and twenty broad, with windows on
blankets, so were fairly comfy. The centre of ward was occupied by a long table, on which were the
various dressings and medicines, etc. About 5.30 am. we were awakened each morning, and the
breakfast was over medicine and dressings were dispensed, the beds were made up, the room swept,
and everything put in order. These operations generally took till about 8am. We were then at rest till
medicine for the ‘ 3-times-a-day” patients, and then rest till 4 p.m., which was our tea-time.
down whenever we liked for the night. Breakfasts generally consist of porridge (“ burgu “) and bacon
afterwards followed by “ duff “—rice, tapioca, sago, etc. For tea we get bread and butter (?) , jam or
cigarettes given out, and oranges. Oranges could also be bought. Plenty of books and papers, so we
are altogether fairly well seen after.
been “up’ about a day and a half, so was allowed to be about the premises at this station. ‘The
accommodation was a bit of contrast from previous Hospital. We were housed in an old barn in a big
served as doors and windows, and one had to walk the floor, carefully watching for holes and rotten
boards. You can guess none of us stayed in there longer than necessary, but soon got into the fresh
Altogether. my experiences there were not pleasant. We had a bath first thing on arrival and clean (?)
shirts and pants. etc., given us, also a stretcher and two blankets. After a couple of days I found rest
literally alive with nests of eggs and newly-hatched arrivals. You can guess I was soon after another
change, and fished out some underlinen from my pack in the store that I had washed myself; but it
a bit more comfortable.. My next move was to the C.C.S. (Casualty Clearing Station), on the 31st.
On arrival there my -. Med. Card “ was examined, and I was put to bed again in a. large tent situated
its outside walls, and also I was told, a very handsome place inside.
tent, the sides looped up and lashed together, making a long tent about a hundred feet long, holding
and 3 blankets, with a suit of pyjamas for each patient. Here we were attended by lady nurses and
cheerful, and to the patients it was amusing to hear the various comments of the men and their
questions in trying to find out where the nurses came from. A great number of the men were north
coming from the same district as some of them. It was very amusing to hear them chatting and
dropping into the north country brogue and expressions Again we had plenty of papers and mags,
were rolled up, and it was very nice looking out amongst the many kinds of trees and listening to
some splendid song birds. I could not recognize the kind of bird but its note was very like the
round, sometimes in repetition, like an echo, almost, at others in another refrain, just as if they were
talking to one another. The second day we had a very heavy hailstorm. I’ve been through a few heavy
storm, for the hailstones were as large as walnuts, and even after they had fallen several minutes, we
could pick up some that fell into tent as large as those glass marbles in the “pop” ‘ bottles. In fact,
some up, he put a few into my bed, so that when I rolled back I found myself “sitting “ on some!
After a few days in bed at C.C.S. the order came along that an amb. train was coming for us, so on
placed on paths round chateau, laid down on them, were covered with blankets, and then loaded into
unloaded on our stretchers, put into train, and placed in the bunks ranged on each side of the long
are very fine. They are about 50 feet long, with three tiers of cots on each side, holding 36 patients in
for the orderlies and stores, etc., also a lavatory. Electric light. In attendance were doctors, nurses,
and orderlies, who each came round in their turn, “registering” us, for their various duties, etc. The
arrange for food and to make us comfortable generally. After loading up, a start was made, and the
next that I recollect was that an orderly was shaking me and telling me to le hurry up and get my
streets of a large town. After a ride of about a quarter of an hour, we found ourselves at a large
the hall, and then we were despatched to our various wards .My ward was C 12, ~ about 25 feet by 20
pyjamas, and were soon going through the usual routine again. This hospital had a good supply of red
cleans up someone, with the result that all their nerves are on edge, and she gets some very nice
expressions and wishes every time her back is turned. The orderlies are a pleasant set m of fellows,
Today, the 7th, our Cards were collected and written up-to-date, and I find that mine is marked ‘‘BL’’
Several others are also marked the same. This I believe augurs another move - that’s to be found out
bag-shaped envelope. Both card and envelope are used as a record of the patients in hospitals and
transport, train or ship. Each hospital adds a history of case. Mine is as follows... . That’s as far as it
makes one fearfully weak lying round in bed day in day out. Shall be glad when I get in touch with all
at home again, for ever since my arrival in hospitals no letters have come to hand.
used in respirators for protection of troops against poison gas. No other substance gives equal
protection.
1918
SALE OF PROPERTY of Mrs Guy
LOT 1 New Market: Residence & Business Premises known as Market House [YMCA £900]
£425]
LOT 4 Puddingmoor On the Cliff: A Block of 3 Cottages with Garden. [Mr L Beard £170]
A Piper, stating that he was captured on March 28 7 is now a prisoner of war in Stammlager Parchin
SUPPLEMENT: PHOTO: Munitions work 80 & 18
LEMAN SCHOOL SPEECH DAY reported
1918
(Bought John Edwards £505)
LOT 2 Villa Residence, No 47 adjoining in occupation of Miss Shardalow (Bought Miss Shardalow
LOT 3 Building Plot adjoining Lot 1, having frontage of 54ft upon the London Road, suitable for
the erection of one or two villa Residences, with ample space for gardens.(Withdrawn)
LOT 5 The adjoining similar building Plot [withdrawn]
LOT 6 The adjoining similar building Plot [withdrawn]
Place, suitable for the erection of small Residence with good Garden space
LOT 8 The adjoining similar building Plot [withdrawn]
LOT 10 The adjoining similar building Plot [withdrawn]
LOT 11 Productive Market Garden near Grove Road, containing one acre 15 perches now in the
LOT 12 The Post Office and Postmaster’s Residence, centrally situated in Exchange Square in the
LOT 13 Two well situated Shops & Dwelling House, Nos 4a and 6 Hungate in the occupation of Mrs
LOT 14 Well-built & commodious Residence, No 14 Northgate, in the occupation of Mrs Anderson,
& premises in rear, with entrance from Ravensmere, in the occupation of Mr H Catling, at the
aggregate annual rental of £20 10s [Mr Mickleburgh £410]
Simmonds, at the aggregate rent of £17 7s 4d [Mr Mickleburgh £225]
PRICE OF BUTTER (on ration) 2s 4d lb.
1918
the fighting since Thursday last.
brunt of the fighting, and borne it well, none better than the men of East Anglia, who were engaged in
Norfolks have the honour of carrying an important position in the shortest possible period of time
objectives well in advance of time, seizing a position and enabling the tanks to, come into action
sooner than would otherwise have been the case. if there was a question of a forced march to a point
advanced by one road and the Suffolks by another, making a forced march which was entirely
successful, our men reaching their destination ahead of the Germans and meeting the latter with a
disorder, and here he came under fire from our tanks, which had moved on the left of the Suffolks.
Airmen also were on the scene from an early stage, and bombed the demoralized Huns with great
were assailed front and flank by the Norfolks, who advanced in the teeth of fire fiercest opposition,
capturing guns and machine-guns, great quantities of ammunitions and other material, besides many
everywhere because of the tenacity with which our East Anglians held on to what they had won. A
daring attempt was made by the enemy to outflank the Suffolks where they were in position. A
changed front to meet the new menace and held the enemy fast until the Norfolks and another
regiment attacked them in flank and put them to flight.
bombardment, and then the whole battle front blazed up once more, the Germans attacking all along
to close quarters with our men, and desperate hand-to-hand fighting ensued, the enemy maintaining
Their first failure came when the Norfolks attacked and cut off the German reserves hurrying to the
and drove the Germans in headlong flight from the whole line. Bitter fighting continued until
nightfall, the Germans attacking and counter-attacking with unabated fury. The rout of the Huns was
a forced march, and the enemy took to flight pursued by our horsemen, and also by our tanks and
airmen. The combination of tanks, airmen, and cavalry in this stage of the battle was a most
were short down, ridden down, and bombed down. Hardly more than a handful of the men caught in
front of our lines escaped. 1 have never seen such slaughter as there was that day, and the Germans
WM CROWFOOT’S ESTATE: left £22,822 gross, of which £10,583 is net personalty. Probate to his
widow Mrs Catherine Crowfoot & daughter Mrs Amy Wood-Hill & her husband Henry Gilbert
from the Paris Basin, crag shells etc to Norwich Museum. 3. Shells from Pliocene Basin to Ipswich
Museum. 4, £100 to Beccles Hospital 5. £100 to Beccles Nursing Institute.
and caused by German Prisoners of War when they occupied part of the building.
FAILURE TO CULTIVATE Ground in Grange Road next to Mr Banham’s house rented by James
nothing. He said there were 10 loads of bricks & rubble on the land. He had no plough or horses and
considered he had do no wrong.
Station Road when girls passed saying they would not lower themselves to talk to discharged
received in action. I think it would be more to these girls’ credit to join the WAAC or Land Army
instead of parading the town at night jeering at people who have done their duty for their country.
1918
LONDON ROAD 20-08-1918 Late Nathaniel Pells
POTATO GROWING Large Potatoes grown by Mr ED Pyne of White House, Ashman’s Road
ADULT MEETING addressed by Mr Rowntree Gillett the Quaker Chaplain in the Forces. He had
objector who told of the almost incredible punishments meted out to him and his companions in
HEADS OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS to start a scheme of blackberry picking by school children.
1918
meat. Does not always arrive in good condition.
ASSISTING THE FOOD SUPPLY: Mr Irah Read, cowkeeper, lost a sow a few days ago since after
GOLDEN WEDDING: Mr & Mrs CT FIELD. He was for many years in business in the Boot & Shoe
Stores in Exchange Square. He is 75 & she is 74. They have 5 sons & 1 daughter, all married. Two of
great grandchild.
WHITE ELEPHANT SALE in aid of Suffolk Prisoners of War at Roos Hall. There will be Concerts,
THE POST OFFICE BUILDING IN EXCHANGE SQUARE. Letter suggesting that at the end of the
lease after the war, should be pulled down and the site thrown into Exchange Square, which would
YMCA MANAGER, Mr Owen Paige, in charge of the YMCA Huts at Worlingham & Beccles is
going to Russia on the Murmansk coast. for the YMCA.
Darnley Reynolds, who is employed by the Corporation. She had opened baths at Ilfracombe,
Margate, Yeovil & Andover; taught swimming at the Crystal Palace, Noorwood, Brixton &
CASUALTY LIST: Private H Withington of the Glamorgan Yeomanry shot through the left leg by a
last winter.
silver medal of the Order of St George (Russia).
Sidney Hall, 118 Denmark Road, for distinguished service in the war. Mr Hall has 5 surviving sons in
the Forces.
let.
CONSERVATIVE CLUB: Smoking Concert given
1918
WAR MEMORIAL: A Correspondent did not agree with the idea of a Public Library as a memorial
He remembered the previous attempts: Mr WW Garnham opened an Institution in Manor House
attempt in Station Road. The more recent history of the Institute & Reading Room which after a brief
existence passed into oblivion. There is also the Public Library today. The Co-Operative Society
privilege by the few and neglected by the large majority.
A new Hospital is what is needed. The present one in Fair Close is out of date and unadaptable.
1918
RALLY BY DISCHARGED SOLDIERS March round Beccles with two bands and end in Exchange
Square. Collection to be taken. [About 50 or 60 in the Parade.
auctioned by Mr GA Stanford afterwards. Sale reached £185.
been twice wounded awarded the Military Medal for bravery. Mr Rix has another son, Sergt Albert
Mr SPRATT, SWINE’S GREEN given permission to open greengrocer’s shop at 6 Blyburgate.
HONOURABLE MENTION: Quartermaster-Sergeant E Baker, RFA, eldest son of Mr E Baker, 7
Old Mill Terrace. Before the War he was a GER signaller at Belton. He joined up on the outbreak of
CASUALTY LIST: Mr & Mrs W Crisp, 30 Peddar’s Lane have received news that their son Private
F Crisp, Irish Kings Liverpool Regt was killed on September 11th. His Company had just gone over
WAR MEMORIAL HOSPITAL Sir,—The East Suffolk Gazette of May 10th, 1914, contained a
frustrated all hopes of rebuilding.
greater and more urgent will it be in the time that lies before us, when our disabled soldiers and
are prepared to receive them, and that the care and comfort they receive does not compare adversely
with that which they have obtained in other hospitals. If our hospital accommodation is not up-to-
to be sent elsewhere to the nearest approved hospital. I gather that no grant for maintenance will be
paid for a discharged soldier while in a hospital which has not been approved. Before going into the
work for nearly forty years is really out-dated, that it does not admit of the necessary alterations.
A country hospital should be built with all the wards on the ground floor, to enable patients to be
view of the country. The practice of treating cases in the open air has made rapid advance in the last
few years, and the effect on the general condition of the patient is remarkable. We have found out at
has been little less than astonishing. In the garden we should have rotating shelters for cases
undergoing open-air treatment.
building could effect them. It is also undesirable to have a critical case in a general ward. The effect
on the other patients is most depressing. There should be a sufficient number of separate wards where
Cheerful and happy surroundings, especially when dealing with sick persons, are more than desirable.
ward, and when it is necessary to admit a child, it is not hard to imagine the distress a crying infant
The nurse on night duty should be in a position to keep watch on the patients under her care. They
There are other important defects in the existing building. The operating room would certainly fail to
meet the approval of any inspecting body. We are deficient in the proper number of bath-rooms,
defects of the existing building. No doubt in some minor points alterations could be effected, but if
the general public appreciates the serious nature of the irremediable defects, I feel sure it will come
position to do so.
A WAR MEMORIAL HOSPITAL. As a memorial to our fallen, as a tribute to our fathers, husbands,
but none more in keeping with the cause for which they died. As defenders of the weal in their hour
of tribulation they rallied round Belgium, France, and Serbia when destruction burst the gates. Let us
A War Memorial Hospital has great advantages, offering as it does opportunity for each to render
homage to our fallen countrymen. Friends, families, villages and the town could in perpetual memory
cure of the sick.— Yours, etc. H. WOOD HILL
from Palestine, under date August 1st, says :— “I thought I would let you know of the doings, etc., of
months. I haven’t been here all that time without seeing some interesting things, so will endeavour to
and fast boat. She has since been sent to the bottom of the “deep blue sea.” After unloading at
including kit bags, was no light weight to carry through the streets of Alexandria. We left Blighty all
covered over with a mantle of snow, but at this place we first realized the effects of a hot country. My
any I had ever entered. Since then II have got used to this “beautiful” Eastern odour and never notice
it in the slightest. After about ten days at Sidi Bishr (just outside Alexandria) the draft I was with got
was to such a thirsty land as Egypt. On arrival at Cairo station we were presented with refreshments
along a very straight road, which leads from the Nile
away. We kept plodding on and on, but still they didn’t seem to get much nearer. Eventually,
of them. I was very pleased to be once more with the good old Beccles Company of that good old
regiment, and to see some of the lads who had been in the “Pen.” Not long after this we were put on
December. In May we had the “Khamseen” winds, which nearly outed most of us. It seemed more
like the hot wind from an oven when the door is opened suddenly.
December 31st I was sent down to Zestoun on a six-weeks’ course of signalling. I did rather well at
this, and got recommended for an Advanced Course of Telephony, which meant another three weeks.
is the next place to Heliopolis and only half a piastre from Cairo by electric car. I paid a visit to the
Pyramids and Sphinx, also to the Zoological Gardens. By this time I was beginning to rumble this
welcomed the “glorious” feeds that we were thus enabled to obtain. Even Eastern civilization seemed
a veritable heaven to us. We went to revues in French and other languages, parts of which we could
I was successful in obtaining two 1st Class Certificates at the School of Instruction, and instead of
being sent back to the Regiment, I was, to my surprise, sent to the Royal Engineers’ Base, near
was not allowed to finish as I was required as Visual Signaller in the Signal Squadron of a Yeomanry
learn this art.
wind up, and no mistake! After a few days, however, we could see the comic side of the affair and
rides where the animal decided the destination, to say nothing of taps from their hoofs. I went up the
line with the Squadron some time in June, 1917, and save a month in hospital with septics, I have
CANDLE RATIONING
SHOP HOURS IN THE WINTER: Mr TH Pearce speaking with the experience of 50 years of
1918
he said their consumption of coal was 3521 tons. Of the gas produced 40% was used for munitions &
50% for industrial purposes. He emphasised the importance of economy, the Water was dependent on
cookers in the town. The Government controlled the Gas Company. Already 100 tons of coal had
been diverted to a town more urgently in need. He urged economy & 5pm closure of shops.
winter, than close at six and find in December that they must close at sunset. You mark my word, if
troubles arise. It was decided to close at 5.
1918
DEATH OF LIEUT HK DUDLEY-SCOTT, RAF, accidentally killed while flying, aged 19. He was
stepson of Major RF Lush, (late of West Yorks Regt) of Montagu House, 62, Northgate. He was
transferred to aeroplane service in April 1918. He was 19.
farewell Dance at the Public Hall, which was very nicely decorated for the occasion. The officers &
their ladies were present. and the Adjutant acted as MC. The company numbered about 130
1918
1918
WAR BONDS - another campaign for funds starting.
SHORTAGE OF RATIONED COAL. Not enough arriving.
Indians who fought with the Anzacs. Their gallant bayonet charge on the banks of the Jordan helped
CASTLE FARM: Sale of live & dead agricultural stock. Mr E Holt has sold the Farm.
1918
Ypres during the last few days different battalions of East Anglian regiments have distinguished
the great work done by these war-wise men from the East.
Slowly but surely our men are fighting their way forward, and in doing so getting a firmer grip on the
wonderful spirit, and none more so than the men of East Anglia. The other day a battalion of the
Norfolks stole out from their positions across marshy and shell-indented ground until they came
breakwater of the Hindenburg line. For an hour or so the Norfolks lay in front of that line, ready to
pounce as soon as the word came. One by one the commanding machine-gun positions were occupied
Never was surprise more complete. The Germans were simply caught in a whirlwind and whirled
away out of their positions before they could offer resistance. When the first line troops were thrown
a better fight. Resting for a few minutes the Norfolks were merely gathering strength for their next
onset, and the Germans thinking they had stopped our advance, came sweeping towards the strangely
line of advancing Germans rose a white tipped wall of steel, which glistened brightly in the
moonlight. The wall surged forward to meet the advancing Germans, and the two met in the open, the
To east and west the positions held by the Norfolks, men of the Essex and Cambridgeshire regiments
East Anglian Day, being made more so when Norfolk and Suffolk Yeomoanry came into the battle
these attacks, until they broke the enemy’s resistance by a magnificent bayonet charge, which cleared
In this fighting a machine-gun party from the Essex Regiment went forward almost a mile in advance
of the main body of our troops, and established a post which was held all through the night until the
men had to fight all through the night, the enemy succeeding in encircling the little post and cutting
off its communication with the brigade headquarters, but in spite of that the men held on, and beat off
Cambridgeshire troops, supported by three squadrons of dismounted Yeomanry drawn from the
Eastern Counties, withstood counter-attacks, in which the enemy employed four divisions and the
hours these attacks were broken in quick succession, and at the close our line was still further pushed
by the valiant East Anglians. The East Anglians have also been engaged in the battles around
positions he held were strongly defended by machine-guns in greater profusion than had been seen
before in that region
but very soon this was useless as a protection, and the full fury of the storm broke over the devoted
troops. There was no faltering. Steadily the Suffolks pushed, overcoming the enemy resistance at
first line positions, because while the advance of the Suffolks was being disputed, men of the Essex
machine-gun fire the whole of the ground by which retreating Germans could alone reach their
from the Eastern Counties. These troops fought their way into the enemy reserve positions in record
arrivals to be men of their own army come to relieve or reinforce them, and actually received the
new-comers with cheers, which were quickly changed to something else when the Norfolks poured in
effect of clearing the whole of the positions in record time. The enemy fell back in haste, mowed
down by the British guns as they retired. Fresh German troops were subsequently brought up and a
Bitter fighting continued until the close of the day, positions changing hands three or four times in the
the lines that were vital to him. A high official of the American Department, who watched the attack,
JAM RATIONING NEXT MONTH
1918
clamorous for a supply of coal. A man from Barsham had brought a horse and lorry for coal for
himself and neighbours in that village; but the crowd would not allow him to take away his rationed
allow him to proceed home..
TEA & ENTERTAINMENT TO WOUNDED SOLDIERS by Beccles Co-Operative Women’s Guild
it was much enjoyed. After tea the time was passed with music, singing and table-games, those who
were able joining in the dancing, musical chairs etc. During the evening refreshments and cigarettes
to those who were too ill to attend.
HARVEST FESTIVAL in St Michael’s on Thursday, The Mayor & Corporation attending, also the
church was very tastefully decorated with flowers and vegetables.
Mrs AW Freeman, late of 6 Saltgate, now residing in Bungay has heard that her eldest son, Douglas
the late AW Freeman & Mrs Freeman, who has laid down his life for his country.
BECCLES CORPORATION TO LAY IN STOCKS OF WOOD because of Coal Shortage.
1918
Yard]. He was educated at the National School, and amongst the first to join the Colours in the early
1916 in Railway Wood, during the Battle of Ypres, he and a companion were at work for 24 hours
buried owing to the sap having been blown up by the enemy, shutting off their exit from the sap.
1918
1918
BANKRUPTCY? Dividend on William Hawes, grocer & draper, Blyburgate, 7 3/4d in the £
TRIBUNALS TO BE CHANGED: Beccles, Wangford & Bungay to form single tribunal. The
DAYLIGHT CHURCH SERVICES. to be held in daylight to save fuel, because the present situation
required immediate & drastic treatment.
who took Cambrai. They had a rough time for a month “up night & day” but it gave them heart once
they got the enemy on the run, and for every shell he sent they returned twenty.
ceremony at Ipswich. It was given for “courage and high example shown on the occasion of an
accident at an ironworks. The accident took place last September, when Miss Mitchell was working
result that the fore finger of the left hand was severed, and before the machine could be stopped the
saw had split her hand badly. Although only 17 years of age, Miss Mitchell was the least perturbed of
to hospital) she neither cried nor allowed any sense of her suffering to be seen, and her fine example
of courage was the admiration of the whole Works.
1918
had taken place in the last four years, and tremendous problems presented themselves for solution in
claim to adequately represent the views and aims of the working classes, and it was essential to get
these views recognised that a strong Labour Party should be returned to the House of Commons.
majority of whom were the wives of working men, it was the duty of the Labour Party to give them
an opportunity for voting for a candidate who would be the more likely to represent their views and
Mr Harris, chairman of the newly formed Lowestoft Labour Party: First and most important was
education. Those who showed ability should be able, by State aid, to enter Universities.. They also
and the importance of religious training. At the close of the meeting several enrolled themselves.. Mr
CASUALTY LIST Mrs Chilvers, 15 Old Market received news that her son, Private H Chilvers of
Turkish positions among the hills and drove the Turks before them in a most successful way. Your
along the plain that passes by Antipatris.
Mrs Jane Poll, 17 Douglas Place has been notified that her son, Private AS Poll of the 15th Suffolk
LAND COMMITTEE. The YMCA asked to store their heavy equipment in the open shed adjoining
Baxter’s house on the Common. Granted
as a barber’s & tailor’s shop was in a state of collapse, and would not have occupied it if a charge was
to be made.
the fire engine from his garage as he required it for storage. The fire engine to be restored to the
Engine House.
1918
HONOURS TO BECCLES MEN: Corporal Walter Paddle of the Canadian MR Battalion mentioned
for his highly courageous and efficient work during the attacks on Demuin & Quesnoy on August 8th
Smallgate and a son of Mr W Paddle who emigrated to Canada 10 years ago.
The Military Medal awarded to Sergt AG Bryant, Suffolk Regt, of 6 Swine’s Green.
1918
1918
DEATH FROM INFLUENZA 2nd Lieut Garnham, formerly known as Cpl Percy Dowe, an assistant
a commission after gallant service in the field.
her only son, Corporal Olly Walpole, of a Canadian Cyclist Battalion killed in France 11 October,
compositor at the Caxton Press. He received his wounds whilst trying with others to help another who
was wounded and bring him under cover.
killed in action on 1 October, aged 28. Before joining up he was employed in the Mono Department
at the Caxton Press. He lost his life during an attack by the Bucks men just outside Cambrai.
stealing £200 from money received from an exhibition of coloured battle photographs at the Mappin
Art Gallery, Sheffield of which he was in charge, Formerly a Lieutenant in the army. He was
Sergeant Major in 1913-14. He joined as a Private in 1915. He won the DCM while in the ranks and
the MC for his work and personal bravery. He was twice wounded and also gassed. He had been
SALE: 40 BLYBURGATE, containing 2 Sitting Rooms, Kitchen, 4 Bedrooms, Coal House & other
offices and a piece of very productive garden, now in the occupation of Mr GF Elliott at the low
SALE by Durrants for Mrs HE Baxter:
15, CAXTON ROAD, Rent £10 [Mr R Hindes £130]
19 CAXTON ROAD Rose Cottages, with large Garden, two tomato & cucumber forcing and cold
96 DENMARK ROAD, Rent £13, [JC Read £160]
1918
INFLUENZA: Several cases having occurred affecting teachers and children, the National Schools
military authorities have prohibited soldiers from attending the Cinema. public houses, concerts and
whist drives; the YMCA have closed down the Public Hall, and the soldiers’ canteen has also been
TIMBER FOR FUEL The Coal Controller makes an appeal to all who have the command of the
timber in their gardens to fell, lop, and use it for fuel. Many people by so doing are saving almost the
also to commend it - it helps to relieve transport which, both by road and rail, is very much over-
BECCLES TRADE COUNCIL: Mr AH Pye was congratulated for his appointment as Labour JP for
INGATE MISSION CHURCH: Rev WE Duxson, curate thanks for supplces, cassocks and a lectern
Good Friday.
CASUALTY LIST: Mr & Mrs Quinton Wilkinson, Ashman’s Road have heard that their second son,
Mrs Wiggett, 34 London Road, has received news that her son, Sergt Charles G Wiggett, MM, 8th Suffolk Regt was wounded
received a bar to his Military Medal on 17, February 1917, during the operations against South
Miraumont trench.
to be suffering from the disease. Twelve wounded soldiers and one nurse at the Norfolk War Hospital
at Thorpe have died of influenza.: This included the death of JW Fenn, Labour Corps died on 29th
Private Herbert Rackham at Brighton Hospital, 6th Queen’s Royal West Surrey Regt of Influenza,
husband of Marion. He was 32.
with Germany had actually been signed, not only was there a general display of flags, but drapers
experienced a run on their stocks of tri-colour ribbon & nearly everyone was seen wearing the
Motor cars & other vehicles were beflagged, and the Lovat Scouts Pipe Band paraded the town with
national colours, its driver clothed in red uniform of a now discarded type, with a real live “bear”
policeman and a Chinaman. The car was driven through the principal thoroughfares and then on
peculiar footed rhythmic steps & soldiers gathered round and joined in the frolic.
Things eventually reached their climax in the evening at Beccles when there was a mass meeting in
with lighted torches paraded the streets; while the other two Bands remained in the Square to play
patriotic airs alternately.
Army Band joined in singing “God Save The King”.
Coloured lights, squibs & crackers were much in evidence & a beautiful display of Very lights was
altogether the scene was one of exhilaration & joyful acclaim.
There was a short service at the Parish Church at 8 pm. It was attended by the Mayor & Corporation
down to its customary quietude.
Page Missing
1918
Yeomanry: 5 Military Sheds
DEMOBILISATION will not start yet on account of the military situation.
1918
1918
COAL SHORTAGE REMAINS
1918
PRISONERS OF WAR: Some have returned home. Sergt Oxborough who arrived home on Sunday
Railway Station, with hearty greetings and disengaging the horse from the landau, attached ropes to
ELECTRICITY offered a supply to town by Messrs Clowes & Sons, deferred until next meeting.
INFLUENZA The Medical Officer of health reported that during the last four weeks an epedemic of
1918
been eight deaths.
URGENT NEED FOR HOUSES for working classes.
1918
been awarded the DSO.
Mills, Manchester Regiment died of wounds in France on November 10th. He was 36.
75th Canadians was killed in action on September 30th. He was formerly of the Beccles Loco; and
DEATH OF CAPTAIN WILLIAM HALPIN, of Carmel, Ashman’s Road, a well known figure in
the town for nearly twenty years, and a greatly esteemed member of St Benet’s congregation. He first
Norfolk Regiment. He was 73.
DEATH OF Mr R FREESTONE. He was a native of Ditchingham, but had lived in Beccles for 36
favourit hobby and practised it for nearly fifty years. He was a member of the Beccles Company of
Change Ringers,taking the tenor bell. He was one of those who rang for the Armistice on 11th. He
SERGEANT OXBOROUGH PRISONER OF WAR
SALE OF FURNITURE: 32 NEWGATE of LM Woolnough (who has left the town)
1918
Suffolks, who was taken prisoner by the Germans, in July, 1916, has favoured us with the following
narrative of his experiences in German camps. That he has arrived home sound in mind and body is
prisoners, but rather to the opportunities to recuperate afforded him during five months’ stay in
Holland as a repatriated prisoner of war.
in Delve Wood, near Longueville; but we could not get near enough to take them. Our orders were to
and men were taken prisoners. 1 was among the number. We were forthwith marched about eight
they got all the information they could out of us, and then marched us off to a small railway station
after our capture we were kept entirely without food. Civilians gave us water as we passed on the
road, but the food they offered us the German guards would not allow us to receive.
big barracks at Cambrai for about three days, and then were sent by train to a camp at Dolman. When
we got there they put us into a big wooden hut, where we had a bath and all our hair was cut off. We
more like barley stuff than anything else I can compare it with. I remained there five or six weeks. ~
Our rations consisted of a ladle of coffee (about quarter of a pint) at 7 a.m. ; a ladle of vegetable soup
eighth of an inch thick at 4 p.m., and a ladle of soup made of some kind of meal flavoured with salt at
5 o’clock.
August 24th, and went by train to a place called Minden, in Westphalia. When we got off the train we
had a march of about ten kilometres to the camp, which was situated in an out-of-the-way place. We
officer in charge was kindly disposed, and allowed us to go to the back of the camp three times a
week to play football. We were also taken out by the sentries for a walk on Sunday afternoons, but it
Minden. However, we were helped along by parcels from home, which came fairly regularly. I well
from home to find that the bread was all gone bad.
ourselves at Saltau, where we stayed for seven days. The camp was about one and a half miles from
and in more liberal supply. Still the rations were not sufficient to keep us in a healthy state: and we
should have fared very badly but for our parcels from home. From Saltau we were moved to a camp
It was surrounded by marshes, and proved a cold, comfortless, punishment place. The camp was built
with huts to accommodate about 2,000. About a thousand of us were locked up in two huts with room
coffee and a ladle of vegetable soup. About 10 o’clock we were called out by name, and searched.
anything of value. After being searched we were again locked up in the two hut till 4 o’clock. Then
On the third morning after we came to this camp an incident occurred which I shall never forget. The
exactly what was meant we did not turn out quickly enough, and the officer sent the sentries into the
huts to hurry our movements. Two men did not move quick enough to their liking, and they stabbed
sentries. On parade the officer asked us if we would volunteer for work. We were all NCOs and said
“No”. When he found we would not volunteer he tried what punishment would do, and gave us no
us for two hours awaiting inspection, and then dismissed us to get our eating bowl and spoon. Then
we had to wait another two hours, and afterwards were required to bring out the straw mattresses
so weak they could hold out no longer. During all this time we were refused our parcels from home.
Some of the men would fall down, unable to walk, so much was their strength reduced by this system
after a time parties of about 40 men were sent out five or six kilometres to dig or load and unload
trucks. We used to go out at 7 in the morning, and work till 5 at night. we got no better food, and but
we would be sent on foot to the railway station, a distance of ten kilometres there and back, to fetch
parcels. The sanitary arrangements in camp were very bad, and a number of the men became very ill.
to the hospital at the back of the camp.
June I was one of about 250 to get free of the camp. We went to Holland on June 13th, and were
signed.
1918
1918
FREE ENTRY TO FELIXSTOWE, HARWICH etc hitherto barred
BUNGAY INFLUENZA EPEDEMIC, has been the centre of a serious outbreak, which happily now
SHORTAGE OF MILK; Tea no longer rationed; Extra Christmas Sugar.
BECCLES ELEMENTARY SCHHOLS CLOSED until 7 January, because of influenza.
1918
Forces. 1000 casualties. 15 officers, one a Major. The average number in the homes is 7,131. One
boy from Beccles was admitted earlier in the year, two more will be admitted because both parents
Page 8 missing
2/1st LOVAT SCOUTSthank the Council for its kindness in giving them use of the Garden on the
1918
the Council with about 1,000 young cabbage plants growing there.
THE YMCA give one month’s notice to terminate the tenancy of the Public Hall.
1918
PUBLIC LIGHTING AGAIN. 50 lamps in use. Full number awaits the end of power shortages.
DEATH OF Mr HENRY GOWER aged 75, who had lived in Beccles 43 years. Greengrocer &
1918
MILITARY MEDAL to Private James B Harris, Suffolk Yeomanry son of Mr Alfred Harris,
ALSO L/Cpl John Clarke, 5th Suffolk Regt, son of John Clark, 8 Station Road
1918
SHOP HOURS extended over Christmas. Afterwards shops to close at 6pm.
from Grove Road to the Common; Land on the south side of Common Lane near the Pound. To be
surveyed.. Plans to show six rooms of ample dimensions and including a bath.
1918
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING: To judge from a queue seen at the door of a Gocery Store on Tuesday,
shopping is still a wearying and tedious business. It is also disapointing so far as many of the good
quality is far removed from pre-war standards, butchers having to take whatever beasts are allotted to
scarcity of dried fruits. Nuts, and oranges, apples etc can be had at a price, and the Christmas cake
line.
our best friends must continue to be an expensive luxury.
POSTHUMOUS HONOUR: The Military Medal has been awarded to Cpl Olly Walpole of the
when his platoon sergeant was wounded, he assumed command of the platoon, which was operating
1200 yards in advance of any support troops on the left flank. Under heavy shell and machine-gun
platoon suffered heavy casualties. Later he was severely wounded while endeavouring to rescue one
of his men who had been severely wounded, and lying out in the open. He was the son of Mrs E