December 1915

Old-Age Pensioners and Out-Relief

At the meeting of the Exeter Guardians of the Poor yesterday, the Governor (Mr. A. B. Edwards) presiding, a communication was read from the Fareham Union, asking for support to the following resolution:—" That the Local Government Board be asked to allow Boards of Guardians to grant out-relief to old- age pensioners, without disqualification, on account of the increased cost of living. The, Governor said the matter was discussed at the Poor-law Conference, and it was there decided that the present was not the time for attempting to interfere with what the Government had done—(hear, hear). It decided that the communication should lie on the table.
The Master announced gifts of toys for the children of the Infirmary from Miss Geare and Mr. J. Hinton Lake, and periodicals from Mr. Branscombe, Cross Park, Heavitree.

It was unanimously agreed to give the inmates the usual extras at Christmas. The Deputy Governor (Mr Stoneman) gave notice of his intention to move, at the next meeting, that the recipients of out-relief be granted extra relief for Christmas, i.e., 1s for adult, and 6d for each child.
The Clerk read the report of the Devonshire Vagrancy Committee, showing that there was a balance at the bank of £296 6s 10d, in addition to which there was due on outstanding counts £42 5s 2d.
Western Times - Wednesday 01 December 1915

Heavitree

A Hospital Sunday church parade, substituted for the pre-war carnival, has been held here. The members of the various Friendly Societies assembled at Marwood House, at the east end of the town, and, headed by the Town Band, paraded the borough, being joined at the Guildhall by the Mayor (Mr. Alderman R. H. Matthews) …
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Friday 03 December 1915

ST THOMAS GUARDIANS

To St Thomas guardians on Friday (Rev. F F Buckingham presiding), the House Committee reported that they had granted Mr White, Superintendent of the Children's Home, Leave to join the Army, and decided to make up the difference between his salary and the Army pay, and to reinstate him upon his return. The same Committee recommended that the vacancy caused by the resignation of Miss Scanes, assistant nurse, be filled by the appointment of Miss Lane, now employed as temporary nurse.–the report was adopted.
Western Times - Friday 03 December 1915

Heavitree Man Found Dead

An elderly man, named James Lucraft, a jobbing gardener, residing alone in a house in the rear of 3, North-street. Heavitree, had not been seen for some days, and this was remarked upon by the neighbours. Anxious to know what had become of him they communicated with P.S. Snell, of Heavitree, who, with P.C. Farrant. entered the house and found Lucraft lying dead in an upstairs room. He was on his back, and was only partly dressed. Dr. Whaite was called in and found life extinct. The body was removed to the mortuary to await the inquest.
Western Times - Monday 06 December 1915

Local News

An interesting and genuine series of cinematograph films, showing what is happening in the zone of war, will be produced twice to-night, and to-morrow and Wednesday night, at the Theatre Royal, Exeter. There will be a matinee on Wednesday. The series will be explained by Mr. Frank Carlton, war correspondent, recently returned from the front, and those who appreciate first hand details of stirring events and actual photographs of many striking episodes, will find the Theatre well worth visiting.

The Mayoress of Exeter's Depot reports that socks, as officers have often pointed out in letters to the Depot, are invaluable just now the troops at the Front, simply because the rain and mud render it almost impossible for men to keep dry shod. Socks, in fact, have been repeatedly mentioned as far more important '"wants” than scarves or mittens any other woollens. The Mayor of Lyme Regis, Mr. Alban J. Woodroffe, has forwarded a cheque for 7s 6d for the Hospitality Fund, and explained it was the result of the proceeds of the sale of postcards of the "Formidable* badge presented to the inhabitants of Lyme Regis by the survivors of that ship who were landed there. The photograph for the postcard was taken Mrs. Barrow, who did not desire to deduct any expenses.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Monday 13 December 1915

EXETER COUNCIL
THE PROPOSED SMALL POX HOSPITAL

To the Sanitary Committee the Town Clerk reported that the Conference at the Guildhall on the 16th November, 1915, was attended by the City Sanitary Committee and representatives Sanitary Authorities the County of Devon and of the Exeter Port Sanitary. Proposals for the joint provision of Small Pox-Hospital were laid before the Conference and discussed. The meeting, however, shewed a strong diversity of opinion in regard the principle upon which the cost of treatment of patients should be defrayed, Authorities, representing a population of 58,043, voting in favour of making expenditure a joint charge, and three authorities, representing a population of 80,534, voting in favour each Authority undertaking the cost treatment its own patients, the capital and standing expenditure only being made a joint charge. The representatives of one Authority indicated that it was very doubtful whether, in any event, their Authority would enter into the proposed joint scheme.—The Committee resolved that it be recommended that the City Council do take action forthwith for the provision of a Small Pox Hospital for the needs of the City and the Exeter Port Sanitary Authority, and that the Sanitary Committee be authorised to purchase a site at a cost not exceeding £500— The Committee resolved also that the City Surveyor and the Medical Officer of Health do submit to the next meeting of the Committee a scheme and estimate for the provision of a temporary structure for administrative staff and the reception of emergency cases, and so designed as to admit of extension after the war or in the event of additional accommodation being required in the meantime…
Western Times - Wednesday 15 December 1915

Fatal Accident to an Exeter Sawyer

A distressing fatality occurred yesterday at Claridge’s Sawmills, the Basin, Exeter. Shortly after 11 o'clock Samuel White, sawyer, was at work on the steam circular there and was sawing a plank–not a particularly big one–when a portion of it flew back and knocked him over. He was thrown about 10 feet, and it was at once obvious that he had sustained serious injuries to the head.
A motorcar belonging to the firm was immediately requisitioned and he was taken to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, but died from fracture of the skull just as he was admitted there.
Deceased was 35 years of age, and resided at St Davids. He was a married man with one child.
The inquest has been fixed for to-day at 3.30.
Western Times - Wednesday 15 December 1915

What the Devon and Exeter War Hospital Supply Depot is Doing

… The following articles have, by arrangement with Miss Buller, been sent direct to the following hospitals, viz.: Newton Abbot. 6 dozen roller bandages, 110 swabs, Honiton. 5 dozen roller bandages. 6 dozen moss bags; Torbay, 6 dozen roller bandages. 4 dozen many tailed bandages; Chudleigh, 1 dozen T bandages, 12 dozen swabs; Topsham, 3 dozen sphagnum moss bags; Teignmouth, 12 many tailed bandages, and 24 T bandages…
Western Times - Wednesday 15 December 1915

Exeter Police Court

Yesterday morning, George Cann, cab driver, of Okehampton-street. was charged with being drunk whilst in charge of a cab in Alphington-road yesterday. He was noticed driving from one side of the thoroughfare to the other, and it was remarkable, the police reported, that there was not an accident, both with a tram-car and motor-car.—Fined 2s 6d,
Western Times - Friday 17 December 1915

Heavy traffic

Rarely have the streets of Exeter been so congested as they were yesterday, and it speaks much the careful supervision of the police that the only real accident reported—that of four people being knocked down, though not seriously injured, and the plate-glass of a shop smashed through a Government lorry skidding—could not be described to their negligence. The troubles of the gentlemen in blue on point-duty were not decreased by the fact that's the ordinary traffic was augmented by a fleet of motorcars engaged in a patriotic work of conveying wounded soldiers to and from the Hippodrome, where they had been entertained by the kindness Capt., Sir W P Xeek and a number of huge government motor lorries which passed through the city. But the Exeter police are used to dealing with heavy traffic, and they kept things going in a remarkably efficient manner, and breaks in the traffic were few and far between.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Thursday 23 December 1915

A XMAS WELL SPENT
At No. 3 VAO Hospital, Heavitree Road, Exeter

The following description by a soldier of how the patients at No. 111. V.A.O. Hospital, Exeter, spent Christmas Day will be read with extreme interest:—
Christmas Eve. 1915. The hour, 8.30 p.m.— We were ordered into bed by the day nurses in charge of No. 1 Ward, and told to get to sleep at once, or else Father Christmas dare not enter the Hospital. The patients, numbering about 70, had strung their stockings or pillow slips on their bed rails, the fact bringing back pleasant memories. At 9 p.m in the darkness there stole into the ward someone, presumably a substitute for Father Christmas, with a hamper full of good things. “A very good start," so all thought. This good Samaritan began to distribute his goodies in the several stockings, etc. This over the usual bidding of comrades good-night took place. But to our surprise the waits started their carols outside our windows, and continued until 1.45 a.m. "Very pleasant," you'll say. At last the long-looked-for sleep came, and lasted until 4 a.m., when, to my surprise, I found someone tugging at my bed rail. Oh, such a funny burglar; just fancy, dressed in nurse's clothes! I quietly watched the movements of this night intruder stuffing the stocking full of good things for the patients when the time came for them to wake up. Presently such a crash—the burglar had dropped the swag. I could hear her tittering, but on she plodded with weary hands, as there were several more operations to complete before all the stockings were filled. At last the deed was done—exit the burglar. I woke my comrades; it was then 5 a.m. Switching on the lights, we started to sing "Christians, awake, salute the happy morn." Then came that glorious charge—not the Germans, but at the stockings and pillow slips, where found some extremely nice and useful presents, for which we thank all those who really did make us so happy, reminding us of those pleasant boyhood days spent at home…

"Now, boys," all hands to the pump," for the wards must be cleaned before breakfast; then for the few finishing touches to the Christmas decorations which all through the Hospital were extremely pretty and well done. And then to await the arrival of the doctors, whom we are always so proud to see, for they are the cleverest physicians it has been our lot to be under, or, Tommy says, "To run up against." The O.C.'s visit over, comes the call, "Now, boys, for the historic event “—dinner! prepared for by such skilled hands as Mrs. Rose, Miss Butcher, Miss Clark, Miss Smith Reuse, Miss Gray, Miss Cowan and Miss Crump. The dinner was excellent, consisting of turkey, sausages, plum pudding, trifle and stout, to which everyone did full justice. After dinner the O.C. read to us a most touching letter from his Most Gracious Majesty King George, wishing us a speedy recovery, and remembering all our comrades in both branches of the Service. The O.C. proposed the health of "The King." which was drunk with musical honours. Speeches followed, one Staff Sergt.-Major Valler, of the 5th Batt. Dorsets, who spoke admirably of General Sir Redvers Buller, under whom he had served for a number of years. We had the pleasure of the company of Miss Buller, the daughter of that gallant General, whom we all loved. Miss Buller responded to the speech. Her words were excellent; so extremely kind and nice is Miss Buller that anyone who comes to the hospitals in Exeter gets quite endeared to her great, kind heart.

We had carvers at the dinner Dr. Atkins, 0.C., Colonel and Dr. Pullen, who we all think did their duties exceedingly well, for which we thank them. Their pleasant faces added greatly to our enjoyment. The speeches being over, adjourned to our different wards, were we spent the remainder of the day enjoying all the goods things that had been presented to us by the doctors, matron, sister, nurses, and townspeople, not forgetting Santa Claus, the burglar.

At 7 p.m. the matron, sisters, and nurses sat down to a well-deserved dinner. If you had seen their bright, smiling faces, and heard the jokes they cracked, you would have joined with me in saying "God bless them all!" We all hope they may have good health for many years to carry on their noble work. Now it's bed-time. Wishing you all a prosperou New Year.

Post women Do Their Duties Well

The changes which were evidence at the Exeter Post Office this Xmas were striking proof of the large number of postal employees who have joined the Colours. The extra hands usually available were engaged on sterner duties, and the officials had to rely upon the help of men over military age or physically unfit for the Services and upon women The latter have helped very considerably to swell the ranks, and by Xmas Day citizens had come to take as a matter of course the businesslike figures the young women with postal bags across their shoulders already doing the postman's work with precision and smartness. Even the soaking wet, blustering and cheerless weather found them still performing these duties in a praiseworthy manner, foreign mails were, naturally, very heavy this year but all the parcels for the troops were dispatched before the home Christmas rush commenced, and this considerably lightened the actual duties of the staff. As regards the Christmas itself, for home traffic was concerned, the work at Exeter does not appear to have been so heavy during Christmas, 1914. The fact that so many men are serving on foreign soil, while it increased the bulk of the foreign mails, naturallv decreased the inland ones. Doubtless a good many people, too were practising economy. Although, however, the inland dispatches and deliveries showed a slight falling off, the few days preceding the great festival were by no means holidays for the staff, who had to depend to such an extent upon the help of amateurs, and it speaks volumes for the manner which they worked, and the careful supervision exercised, that things passed off so smoothly.
Western Times - Tuesday 28 December 1915

Lost number plate

Mr W H Johnson, auctioneer, of Queen's House, Honiton, was summoned at the Exeter Police Court yesterday for the driving a motor car in Heavitree without an identification plate in front on December 20th. Mr Templeman, apprearing for him, explained that the plate had come of by accident entirely unknown to Mr Johnson.– Dismissed on payment of costs.
Western Times - Thursday 30 December 1915

Soldiers' Christmas Party at Exeter

A Christmas Party, given by the Committee of the Paris-street Club, Exeter, in connection with the Soldiers' and Sailors' Institute, Gandy-street, took place last evening at the King's Hall, St. Thomas. The guests, numbering 230, were men of the R.F.A. stationed at Topsham Barracks, who attend the club, together with a few soldiers who are home from the Front. The hall was very tastefully decorated in honour of the happy event. Supper of a substantial kind was provided, the fare comprising meat, plum puddings, mince pies, etc. The tables were attractively adorned with flowers, etc., and Christmas crackers were supplied in large numbers, while later the men were presented with cigarettes. After supper a most enjoyable programme was given by members of the Queries Party, while each guest received a gift from a bran dip. Altogether the soldiers spent a most pleasant evening, for which they were most grateful to Mrs. C. H. Williams, Mrs. R. A. Kay, the hon, secretaries of the club, and the many friends who had contributed to the splendid entertainment, and had otherwise assisted in carrying it through. Major-General Sibthorpe (Indian Army) very kindly arranged for the use of the hall.
Western Times - Thursday 30 December 1915

November 1915

OFFICIAL THANKS
From a Commanding Officer of the Anzacs
TO MAYORESS'S DEPOT

An official letter has been sent to the Mayoress Exeter at the Depot from the Australian and New Zealand Base Depot in England expressing, on behalf of Sir Newton Moore and all officers of the Australian and New Zealand Forces, sincere thanks for kindnesses to our troops. "Every man of our drafts passing through Exeter," remarks the officer who signs the letter, "much appreciates your kind welcome and gifts, though you will find the Australian does not say much.''
As a matter of fact, of course, a good many Australian and New Zealand soldiers have written to the Depot from time to time expressing their gratitude to the ladies of Exeter while others have thanked the Mayoress and the members of her Committee personally at St. David's and Queen-street. The official letter of thanks, however, naturally none the less welcome, especially as it gives the seal of recognition and appreciation, as it were, to all that the Depot has gladly done for brave Anzacs.
Western Times - Monday 01 November 1915

EXETER HERO
Story of How He Captured German Guns
OFFICER'S GRAPHIC LETTER

"So fell a brave man" writes his Commanding Officer, in a letter in which he advises Mrs. Northam, of Cheeke-street, Exeter, of the death of her son. Sergeant R. Northam, "killed in action" in France on September 25th. Lieut. Sheepshanks (of Chudleigh), O.C. "D" Co., 8th Devons, who deserves especial thanks of all for his very kindly letters to bereaved folks at home, in the course of his letter to Mrs. Northam says: "That day this Regiment was ordered to attack the German trenches, some 300 yards from where his Company was in our trenches, and your son's Company, 'A' (in which I now am, and was during the great fight, along with the other Companies) led the attack through a terrific hail of shells, machine gun and rifle fire. He went unscathed through this, through the German barbed wire, ripped to pieces by the artillery fire."
The letter continues that in spite of losses, three lines of German trenches were taken, the Germans that didn't run were crying out for mercy and so many were taken prisoners. "Across the road there was battery of enemy guns still firing, and it was your son who gathered the men nearest to him, and with them he charged the guns. Seeing us approach, the Germans turned tail and fled, the remainder being killed as they ran away. When your son came up to the guns he found them nearly red-hot from firing to the last. Not content with this, he went on with his party, and advanced up to the crossroads, where we had to halt owing to the attack on the fortified village on our left being held up. That meant that the men and he and could not advance further, so all the men were set to dig themselves in; that is, make trenches to shelter themselves in from enemy fire."
…The official account of his death was, roughly, as follows:
Sergt. P. Northam, for conspicuous courage and gallantry on September 25th. in leading the charge on the German guns."
Western Times - Monday 02 November 1915

New Sheriff

Much satisfaction, and no little pleasure, will be occasioned by the announcement that Alderman John Stocker, J.P., Is to fill the office of Sheriff of Exeter during coming year. Alderman Stocker is the leader of the Conservative Party in the City Council, and also the Chairman of the Education Committee, he has been for many years a leading public man in the parish of St. Thomas, and since its annexation to Exeter has brought his great experience to bear in many ways in connexion with the conduct of city affairs, and particularly in educational matters. The Sheriff-Elect is a bachelor, and during his year of office will be assisted in the discharge of the duties appertaining thereto by his niece, Mrs. E. W. of Sheffield.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Wednesday 03 November 1915

Accident to Exeter City Treasurer

Shortly alter five o'clock last evening. Mr. W. G. Rogers, Exeter City Treasurer, who is nearly 80 years of age, was crossing High-street towards Queen-street, when he was knocked down by a butcher's trap which a stationary tram prevented him from seeing. The shaft of the trap caught him, and he fell, the wheels passing over his legs. Several persons ran to his assistance, and he quickly got to his feet and walked to the shop of Mr. Hoskins, confectioner, at the corner of Martins-lane. It was found that he was much shaken, and that he had a nasty abrasion of the temple. P.C Parish assisted Mr. Rogers into a cab, in which he was driven to his home.
Western Times - Wednesday 03 November 1915

EXETER JUMBLE SALE
For the British Red Cross Farmers' Fund

For the Jumble Sale in aid of the British Red Cross Farmers' Fund, which takes place to-day, at the Exeter Cattle Market, the entries include a bullock, 70 sheep, 13 pigs, about 100 fowls (including two Sussex fowls, six white Orpington, buff Orpington, cockerels all pure bred), ducks, geese and turkeys, 2 ponies, 2 dog carts, mail carts, wagon, orchard of apples, sacks of seed wheat, barley and oats, hogsheads of cider, a gun, pair of pictures, croquet set, artificial manure, machine oil, dogs, cattle medicine, and a useful lot tools and implements. To make the sale a success the residents of Exeter and neighbourhood are asked to attend at the opening by the Mayor of Exeter (Mr. J. G. Owen), which will take place 12.45, and to bid freely for the goods offered.
Western Times - Wednesday 03 November 1915

Notes of the Day.

I hope the weather will be fine to-day, for a highly interesting ceremony to be performed in Exeter —one of which will give pleasure to a vast number of people who will, no doubt, assemble in the streets. Two of the German guns, captured by the 8th and 9th Battalion of the Devonshire Regiment at the Battle of Loos, are to handed over by the Officer Commanding No. 8 District to the Lord-lieutenant of the County, who will, in turn, will ask the Mayor to keep them in safe custody, they being subsequently drawn through several of the thoroughfare of the city. We all regret heavy losses sustained by the 8th and 9th Battalions in the fighting, but the presence of the guns in the capital of Devon is evidence that our soldiers fought with the utmost bravery, and we know they not only drove the enemy from their positions, but made important captures of their artillery. "To the victor the spoils," and so, having deprived the Germans of some of their ordnance, two of the captured guns are going to find, at least, a temporary resting place on Northernhay, there to provide an illustration of the daring doings of Devonshire men in the great European War.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Friday 12 November 1915

Advert

For a good lunch go to Murch's, facing Exeter Cathedral, where soups. fish, entrees, and joints are served as in London Restaurants at reasonable prices daily. Wine and ale.—Advt.

War Loans

All who wish to subscribe to the War Loan, or give to some the many funds for helping our brave soldiers, might provide the cash by looking through their jewel cases, and disposing of any odds and ends of out of date or unwearable articles, and taking them to F. G. Hodson, 37, High-street, Exeter, who will give the full market in cash for Gold, Jewels, Antique Silver, Old Teeth, etc., etc. All articles sent post returned free of cost if offer not accepted.—Advt.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Friday 12 November 1915

Entertaining the "Tommies " at Queen Street Club

To the generosity of Mr. E. S. Plummer are duo the thanks of the soldiers’ crowded the United Services Club, Queen-street, Exeter, Wednesday, to enjoy the splendid display, of moving that picture provided by the gentlemen. The entertainment was much appreciated, and included travel, naval, nature and comic films “John Bunny” and the popular "Charlie Chaplin” caused roars of laughter. Over 120 soldiers were present, a large proportion being from Topsham Barracks. The arrangements for showing the the pictures were carried out by Mr. Cannicott. AT the conclusion of a very happy evening a vote of thanks to Mr. Plummer was carried amid the cheers of the Tommies.
Western Times - Saturday 12 November 1915

RED CROSS FARMERS' FUND.

The pig which realised £100 16s at Exeter on the occasion of the jumble sale for the British Red Cross Farmers' Fund, was exhibited in a shop in Queen-street, and produced another £2 8s 8d. The result of the Red Cross sales, held under the auspices of the Exeter of the Devon Farmers' Union, is as follows:
Exmouth Jumble Sale, £177 7s 6d; collected, £44 3s; total, £221 7s 6d.
Exeter Jumble Sale, £671 13s 6d ; collected, £147 2s 10d: exhibiting pig, £2 8s 8d; total, £881 5s
These amounts give an aggregate of £1,042 15s 6d. A few subscriptions have to be paid. As soon as these are received, the total amount will be made known through the press.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Friday 12 November 1915

EXETER POLICE CASES
Bottle of Port and Brandy Found in Drunken Woman's Pocket

Driving a motor cycle and sidecar without a red rear light in Fore-street on the 4th inst.. was the allegation against Gilbert Ford, of High-street, Sidmouth, at Exeter Police Court yesterday, before Messrs. H. B. Varwell (chairman). P. C. M. Veitch, E. C. Perry. A. McCrea and H. Hall. He did not appear, but sent a letter, and after hearing the evidence of P.S. Snell a fine of 15s. inclusive was imposed.
Kate Braven, married, of Ellis-place, Heavitree, pleaded guilt, to two summonses for being drunk at Heavitree on the 5th and 8th November respectively.—P.S. Bishop and P.C. T. Tarrant gave evidence, the latter producing a bottle containing a mixture of port and brandy, which came from the woman's pocket as he assisted her home.—Defendant promised never to indulge in intoxicants again and expressed her sorrow for what had occurred.—Defendant was ordered to find a surety for her good behaviour for twelve months, and meanwhile was placed under the observation of the Probation Officer.
Charlotte of 20, Smythen-street, summoned tor assaulting Joseph Hartley on the 8th instant, was fined 2s 6d.
Western Times - Saturday 13 November 1915

OUR LETTER BOX
DEVON AND CORNWALL WAR REFUGEES’ COMMITTEE.
To the Editor of the "Western Times”

Sir.—The above Committee would be most grateful for any gifts of fruit and vegetables for the many the Refugees who from time to time occupy the hostels in this city. Apples world be most acceptable. All contributions should be sent to one of the three hostels. No 3. Mont-le-Grand, No. 4 Comrie Crescent or Emmanuel Hostel, Cowick-street.
Yours faithfully.
F. F. BUCKINGHAM.
Chairman of Committee.
Exeter. Nov. 12. 1915.
Western Times - Saturday 13 November 1915

WHAT A BOON!
An Officer on Exeter's Hospitable Welcome
TO ALL TROOPS

In regard to the thousand Christmas puddings which the Mayoress of Exeter has ordered for despatch through the Depot to the Devons and the men of the 24th Field Ambulance at the Front, it should perhaps be mentioned that half of them are 1lb. puddings and half 2lbs. in weight. As mentioned yesterday, the thousand will be enough to enable each man of the Devons and 24th Field Ambulance (the latter mostly Exonians) to have a piece of Christmas pudding each.
Western Times - Wednesday 17 November 1915

Soldier Cyclist Injured in Exeter

A somewhat serious accident happened just outside the Tramway Depot, Paris-street, Exeter, yesterday, soon after two o'clock. Corporal Crowsingham. 17th Battery, R.F.A.. of Topsham Barracks, was riding on his bicycle, when a side-slip on his bicycle, he was violently thrown to the road. He was carried into the Depot and a doctor called. Afterwards he was removed to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, where it was found that was suffering from concussion. Arrangements were made for his removal to the military hospital.
Western Times - Saturday 13 November 1915

DEATH OF MR. F. EDGAR,
AT EXWICK.

After an illness of a few weeks, Mr. Frederick Edgar, for the last 21 years manager County Steam Laundry at Exwick, passed away on Saturday at the age of 65 years. He leaves a widow to mourn his loss, but never had any children. Mr. Edgar was exceptionally well known, not only in the village of Exwick, but in the city of Exeter.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Monday 22 November 1915

CITY POLICE.
Travelling Without a Ticket on the G.W.R.
SOLDIERS IN TROUBLE

Attached to the trawler section of the Royal Navy, Thomas Christie appeared at the Exeter Police Court yesterday, before Messrs. A. McCrea (chairman), F. J. Widgery, H. Hall, and H. J. Munro, charged with travelling on Great Western Railway on Saturday without having previously paid his fare.—The Chief Constable (Mr. Nicholson) explained that defendant was found in a train at St. David's Station. He had no ticket but a pass granting leave until Monday. He had no money, but said he wanted to go to Chorley. The railway officials offered to take him back to Plymouth, but would not consent to this. The Company were now willing to withdraw the charge if defendant was handed over to the military authorities.—Defendant said he wanted to go home to Chorley to see his parents. He had money at home and would have paid his fare when he got there.—The Bench directed that defendant should be handed over to an escort.
Western Times - Tuesday 23 November 1915

Exeter Police Court.

Charged with obtaining food and lodgings to the value of 2s from Gladys Ethel James by means of false pretences, Annie Julia White, of 2. Mount Redford-square, Larkbeare, was remanded till Friday at Exeter Police Court yesterday by Messrs. P. Kelland (Chairman), J. Stokes and P. R. Gayton. It was intimated by the Chief Constable (Mr. Nicholson) that accused was arrested on a warrant granted the previous day, and one or two more charges of similar character may be preferred against her.
Two young seamen, Arthur Edwin Todd and James Prowse charged with being absentees from H. M.S. "Vivid," were ordered to be handed over to an escort.
Western Times - Tuesday 24 November 1915

Death of an Exeter Child Following Burns

A little boy aged 9, named Willie Lyons, died at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Saturday evening from shock, following burns. His parents live at Pancras-lane, Exeter, and on Friday evening the lad was admitted to the Hospital suffering from severe burns, understood, through a candle setting his clothes on fire. An inquest will probably be held to-day.
Western Times - Monday 29 November 1915

October 1915

ZEPPELIN HERO
Relics to be Exhibited in Exeter To-Day

Exonians will to-day have a unique opportunity to inspect what has never previously been shown in public. At the Guildhall, Miss Warneford, sister of the British hero who wrecked the first Zeppelin, will be in charge of an exhibition of his relics, including the priceless Legion of Honour Medal which was specially set in diamonds and presented to his mother by the French Government. Mrs. Corkery (the late lieutenant's mother) is an Exmouth lady, and she has started a fund for providing comforts to the wounded at the Dardanelles. The contributions at the silver collection which will be taken at the Guildhall door will be divided between this fund and that the Mayoress of Exeter for feeding the troops at the railway stations.
Both funds are exceedingly deserving, and it is hoped the public will not miss this opportunity of seeing what they will probably never again or have an opportunity of setting eyes on. In addition, there will be number of interesting maps and photographs, the V.C.'s revolver, flying kit, shells, etc. Explanations will be given on request.
Western Times - Friday 01 October 1915

Exonian Tells of Ship Sunk by Submarine

Mr. R. Taylor, of St. Thomas, Exeter, brings to the city the news of the sinking the s.s. “Anglo-Columbian." from Montreal to Avonmouth. After firing across the bows of the ship the German submarine approached within 25 yards, and gave the crew of about 140 a quarter of hour to leave the ship. At the end of that time there was still another boat to be lowered, and the commander of the submarine granted another ten minutes. All the crew got clear, and then followed seven loud explosions. The crew were in the boats for about five hours before being picked up and landed.
Western Times - Friday 01 October 1915

Accident at Exeter

Last night, about 10.45, James Stevens, aged 52, residing at Church-lane, St. Sidwell's, Exeter, was jumping off an electric tram-car in Sidwell-street when he fell heavily to the ground, pitching on his head. He was picked up in a dazed condition, the police ambulance was obtained, and Stevens was conveyed to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital by P. C.’s Carpenter and Harvey. On examination Stevens was found to be suffering from severe scalp wounds, and he was detained.
Western Times - Friday 01 October 1915

OUR LETTER BOX
ZEPPELIN HELIOS

To the Editor of the "Western Times."
Sir. I have been informed that someone in Exeter or district has a piece of a Zeppelin destroyed in Belgium. If this so, I should like to borrow it for an exhibition with the Warneford relics at the Guildhall next week. May I ask you to be so kind as to publish this in the hope that if there is such a relic in the City the owner will communicate with me at once, and so help two excellent and deserving funds.
Yours faithfully,
HON. ORGANIZER.
Guildhall, Exeter, October 1st, 1915.
Western Times - Saturday 02 October 1915

EXETER EMPIRE

Mr. George H. has again secured a fine selection of films for the first three days of the week at the Empire Electric Theatre, Exeter. "Judge Lynch," an “Ideal” exclusive drama, in two acts, heads the programme. It depicts a cowboy just about to be lynched, when the Sheriff, who has been tied up, arrives at the scene, and makes the men listen to the cowboys story, at the end of which they acquit him. "A Deuce of a Game" shows a husband giving a card party in his flat while his wife is out. The wife returns, and the guests are rushed out hurriedly, in the confusion of which they get arrested by the police, who had planned to raid the establishment. The Judge phones their host, but the wife answers the phone, and contradicts the story. In the end they get off, but the husband suffers at the hands of his wife. "John Bull's Animated Sketch Book” and “The "Graphic," showing the day's happenings, are fine. "Pimple's Royal Divorce,” a two-part comedy, featuring the famous Pimple and wife Josephine (whom he divorces for Marie Louisa), and the Battle of Waterloo and the subsequent exile of Napoleon, Pimple is a spool which no one should miss. The latter half of the week will include “The Rustle of a Skirt," "The Love Whip,” and "My Lady Raffles in the Mysterious Hand," three fine dramas. "Eddie’s Awful Predicament," a comedy by Nestor, and "The Graphic."
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Tuesday 05 October 1915

THE TRAMS: PLATFORM SCREEN :
WAR SERVICE ALLOWANCE

Mr. Varwell moving the adoption of the report of the Tramways Committee, called attention to the fact that two motor men had left to take up munition work, and another had joined the Army. Three conductors had been raised to motor men, and youths engaged to act as conductors. The matter of dry seats was in abeyance. As for the platform screens, one of the cars had been fitted with them, and the arrangement, he thought, answered the purpose far better than anything they had seen. He hoped members of the Committee and of the Council would visit the Depot and see the car which had been fitted with the screens, and which would be there a day or two for inspection. Mr. Linscott seconded. (EM editors note: at that time there was a concern that drivers could see up female passengers dresses as they ascended the stairs. The screen, was fitted to the steps to prevent this.)
Western Times - Wednesday 06 October 1915

FIRE AT EXETER.
NO SERIOUS DAMAGE.

Yesterday afternoon a fire broke out in Rack-street, Exeter, and, while the neighbourhood is one of the poor and thickly populated quarters of the city, fortunately no personal injuries were sustained, and the damage done was not serious. The outbreak occurred in premises in the lower part which is occupied by Mrs. Kelland, a second-hand furniture dealer etc., two rooms immediately over her shop being tenanted by a Mr. Vickery and it was here that apparently the fire occurred. P.C. Harris, while on duty on Exe Bridge was appraised of the occurrence by a man named Scott, and these two hastened to Beedle’s Terrace for the fire appliances kept there. On arrival at the scene of the fire they found P.C. Tarrant had already gained admission to Mrs Vickery’s apartments, the tenant being at the time out of the house. By Neans of buckets of water supplemented by the fire appliance, the flames were soon subdued, and when Supt. Pett and the Fire Brigade arrived with the motor engine all danger was practically over. Much of the furniture of the two upper rooms, comprising a living and a sleeping apartment was destroyed, however, and a good deal of damage was occasioned by water to the stock in Mrs Kelland's shop beneath. The damage to the premises and Mrs. Vickery's furniture is estimated, roughly at £20, but that occasioned to stock in the shop will probably be even more. The owner of the premises is Mr F. G. Jones, of Colleton house. The tenants are believed not to be insured. The fireman remained on the spot for some time, and helped to clear away the smouldering timber, etc., so as to prevent any further outbreak, And in extinguishing the flames valuable help was rendered by P.C.s Farrant at Harris, under the direction of P.S. Underhill and by Special Constable S Parrington, Pte. Webber, and Messrs. Scott, Misdon and Wingfield. It is supposed that the cause of the outbreak was a spark from a fire which was left burning in the living room upstairs.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Wednesday 06 October 1915

Motor Accident at Topsham

At 5 o'clock Wednesday evening a motor car returning from Sidmouth, driven by Major Triford. of Teignmonth, accidentally ran into an electric light standard in Broadway, Topsham. Luckily, the driver, only received a slight cut on the face, while the other occupants of tho car, a lady and the chauffeur, escaped with nothing worse than a severe shaking. The car was so badly damaged by the impact that the party were unable to proceed on their journey.
Western Times - Friday 08 October 1915

Loss of Feet.
G.W.R. EMPLOYEE’S CLAIM.
ACCIDENT NEAR EXETER

At the Exeter County Court, yesterday, before Mr. Lush, K.C., Deputy-Judge, an action brought by Archie Western, of 27, Sandford-road. Weston-super-Mare, late of Exeter, against the Great Western Railway Company, which was adjourned from a previous Court, was mentioned. The action related to a claim under the Workmen's Compensation Act, plaintiff being, the time, of the accident, a labourer in the employ of the Great Western Railway Company on an average weekly wage of £1 2s 8d. While in the Company's employ he was run over by a train at Stafford Bridge near Exeter, and had both feet cut off. Mr. McGahey appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr. Pengelly for the Great Western Railway Company. The last named stated that it was an adjourned application to register agreement between the parties. Mr. McGahey said the agreement could not be registered as settlement had been arrived at. The Company had agreed to pay £100 compensation, but would not undertake to guarantee him employment always in future. At present Western was employed by the Company, and it was only fair to state, there was likelihood of his being dismissed. However, if anything went wrong plaintiff could be discharged at any time. Under the Compensation Act, if discharged, plaintiff was entitled to £360. Mr. Pengellv said Western was at present earning £1 3s a week. The application was struck out, Mr. McGahey expressing the hope that further negotiations between the Company and plaintiff would be satisfactory.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Thursday 14 October 1915

Fire at an Exeter Fried Fish Shop

About 8.15 yesterday morning a fire broke out at the locked up fried fish shop belonging to Mr. Milton in Lower North-stireet. Exeter. Mr. Griffin, of Little Silver, when passing the premises noticed smoke. A postman, named Butler, whose attention was called to it, pressed the fire alarm, and then broke open the door of the house with a hatchet. Inside a quantity of coal, close to the skirting of the shop, was in flames, which, however, quickly extinguished by a few buckets of. water. P.C.s Bessant and Gribble, who were soon on the scene, rendered valuable service.. The Fire Brigade arrived, but fortunately, their help was not needed. Mr, Milton, who resides No. 5, King Edward-street, left the premises at midnight, when, apparently, everything was all right. The damage is estimated at about £2.
Western Times - Monday 18 October 1915

Practice target shooting

I should like to say a word about the great, improvement shown in shooting by members of the Exeter Companies. The arrangements at the range are admirable, and there is no excuse for a man being a bad shot if he will only attend and receive the instruction awaiting him. One Volunteer, who has not long been in the ranks, and who, previous to then scarcely knew one end of a rifle from the other, last week put on five bulls in succession. The musketry instructor, Sergt. Milner, has worked most energetically. He never seems to get tired of the work, and is ably assisted by the platoon sergeants and N.C.O’s. I understand arrangements are being made for a Challenge Cup shoot between Platoons. This will keep things moving during the winter. The sergeant-major has been giving some lectures on the mechanism of the new service rifle, a subject of full of interest. Truly, it is a wonderful invention—or I should say, a wonderful sequel to a series of inventions. A Volunteer should know how a rifle is put together. It may be extremely useful to him some day.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Tuesday 19 October 1915

Exeter Municipal Items

… A most interesting addition to the Exeter local collection has been bequeathed under the will of the late Miss Caroline Arden, of Weymouth. It is a wine glass 16¼ inches high, engraved with a portrait of King Charles II., a lopped oak trunk with a branch springing from it, and an inscription "God Bless King Charles the Second." The glass is stated to have been one of a set made for and used at a banquet given to King Charles II., at the Guildhall Exeter, to celebrate his restoration.
The War Office has notified the Exeter R.A.M. College Committee that the College premises will not be required for the Army Pay Department. The military authority will vacate the rooms they have been occupying at the end of the present month.
Western Times - Friday 22 October 1915

The Notes of the Day

The organisers and helpers associated with Red Cross Day in Exeter deserve congratulations on the splendid result achieved. A total of £335 with the probability of an enlargement by a few other amounts, is well beyond the mark at which the Committee aimed, and will enable a really handsome donation made to a noble cause. The ready and hearty way in which people of the city and county—for it must be recorded that the influx for market day was an important factor in assisting the sale of flags-—responded to the appeal was excellent testimony to public appreciation of the merits of Red Cross work. It also afforded proof of universal desire to assist ensuring attention for the brave fellows who are stricken by shot, shell, or disease. Tis a comforting reflection that the dictates of humanity are being so well recognised in the country generally.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Saturday 23 October 1915

THE MAYORALTY

Mr. Stocker said that no doubt the Council would expect some announcement that evening with regard to the Mayoralty of the City for 1915-16. The wish had been generally expressed throughout the entire City that if he could be induced to do so the present Mayor should be asked to continue in office for another year—(hear, hear). He (the speaker) was glad to be able to now announce that his Worship would accept re-nomination on November 9th—(applause). He was quite sure the present Mayor's re-election would, be as satisfactory to members of the Council as it would be to the entire City—(applause). He (Mr. Stocker) had hoped to be able also to make an announcement that evening in regard to the Shrievalty. He had, however, been away from the City recently, and had only been back, so to speak, a few hours. No serious effort had consequently been made directly in the matter, but immediately the Mayoralty Committee were a position to say who would accept the office of Sheriff a public announcement would be made.
Western Times - Wednesday 27 October 1915

Notes of the Day

The Mayoress Exeter (Mrs. J. G. Owen) desires to remind working parties in Exeter and district and lady helpers of the Depot generally, that, with the approach of winter, there is a great call for woollen scarves and mittens for the troops and sailors. Applications from Devonians for them are coming in now, every day, especially from France, and the supply is not nearly enough to meet demands. The Mayoress hopes, therefore, that ladies will quickly help to augment the Depot's stock.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Wednesday 27 October 1915

EXETER MAYORALTY

Mr. J. G. Owen Consents to be Re-nominated for the Position
At Tuesday's meeting of the Exeter City Council held at the Guildhall, it was officially announced by Mr. Alderman John Stocker that the present Mayor of the City (Mr. James G. Owen) had consented to be renominated on November 9th for the position of Chief Magistrate of the City.
Western Times - Friday 29 October 1915

September 1915

OLD OFFENDER
Sent to Prison the Exeter Magistrates

A young man from the Barnstaple district, with twenty convictions against him, was sent to prison by Messrs. H. Hall (in the chair), P. Kelland, and P. Gayton, at the Exeter Police Court yesterday. He appeared in the dock in khaki, and was described as Pte. Albert Edward Smart, of the Suffolks, stationed at Bury St. Edmonds. He was charged with obtaining from Mr. Joshua Daw a pair of riding breeches and leggings, value 24s, by false pretences, on March 26th.—He pleaded guilty, and asked for another chance, saying that since the offence he had joined the Army and wanted to fight for his King and Country. He also remarked that was anxious to get recruits, and had already got one.
The Chief Constable said that Smart was well known in North Devon. He went to Mr. Daw's, and said he had been sent by a well-known sheep dealer for breeches and leggings. The dealer was known to Mr. Daw, and Smart produced what purported to be a written statement from the dealer. Therefore the breeches and leggings were given to defendant, who went straight away and pawned them, making good excuse to the pawnbroker. There were, as stated, twenty previous convictions, and the defendant has been to prison before for theft. The Chairman said that owing to this bad record the Bench could not do less than send him to prison for two months' hard labour.
Western Times - Wednesday 01 September 1915

Presentation at Exeter

A farewell dinner at the White Lion Hotel, Exeter was on Tuesday made the occasion for the presentation of an illuminated address from a few friends to Mr. Robert G. Butler, who is leaving the managership of the Empire Electric Theatre, Exeter, to take up a similar post in London. The presentation was made in a few well-chosen words by Mr. Matthew John Dunsford. the secretary of the Empire Electric Theatre Company. Brief speeches were made, tribute being paid to Mr. Butler’s work at Exeter. His friends wish him all success in his sphere.
Western Times - Thursday 02 September 1915

LOCAL AND DISTRICT NEWS

The delightful summer weather experienced Exeter recently was broken by a heavy rainstorm yesterday morning.
The Registrar-General reports that the annual rate of mortality in Exeter and Plymouth last week was 9 per 1,000 of the inhabitants, while that for the 96 great towns of England and Wales averaged 12.3.
A little boy, named Heppell, whose parents live in Kings-road, was taken to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday afternoon with a fractured shoulder. He ran out of the enclosure at the bottom of Pinhoe-road where Messrs. Anderton and Rowlands' fair has been stationed, and a motor-car knocked him down. The chauffeur at once took the lad to the hospital in the car.
Western Times - Thursday 02 September 1915

PARTRIDGES.
WAR AND SPORT.

Under normal circumstances the guns would have been at work among the partridges by now. But Huns, and not birds, absorb attention. Partridges are plentiful, it is reported in practically all parts of Devonshire, but are likely to scarce in the market this season, owing to few shooting parties being organised, a consequence of the war, and the fact that a large percentage of the birds that may be killed will be sent to the military and naval hospitals. Dealers anticipate considerable difficulty in obtaining supplies for sale, and forecast high prices. A salesman of one of the principal purveying establishments in Exeter has predicted that the demand will certainly much exceed the supply. The plentifulness of birds is accountable in two ways. Comparatively little shooting was done last season on the principal estates; consequently, a large number of last year's birds are still alive. The weather this Spring for hatching was also good, and, generally speaking, birds are strong and healthy.
Large numbers of partridges and pheasants shot in Devonshire last year were sent to the hospitals, and there is not the slightest doubt that the same thoughtfulness and consideration for our gallant soldiers and sailors who have been wounded or fallen sick in upholding the honour of the Empire will be shown this season owners of preserves. Those who can afford to pay high prices for partridges and pheasants will not object to doing so if they know the supply is scarce owing to the birds being given to the men who have been defending their hearths and homes. Such gifts are greatly appreciated by the soldiers and sailors, and the landed proprietors of Devonshire are not likely to forget their indebtedness to them for answering the country's call in such an enthusiastic and patriotic way, and facing death in defence of such righteous cause as that of the Quadruple Entente.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Friday 03 September 1915

RECREATION
For the British Soldiers at the Front
DEVONSHIRE MEN
Thank Exeter Mayoress for Sending Boxing Gloves

"It has been rather a stormy night in the trenches, and to get such a luxury first thing in the morning (as the parcel comforts from Exeter) made me and a dozen others enjoy our breakfast and smoke after." Who can say, in face of such a statement, straight from the front, that the ladies of the Mayoress of Exeter's Depot are not doing their " bit " to help win this war. And it is a big "bit" too, for a happy man is the one who goes about his work in good heart, and the knowledge that those home are thinking of them away in the trenches (even apart from the tangible proof), is an encouragement to the soldier that cannot be estimated.
Pte. ——, of B Co., 8th Devons, in France, the writer of the sentence at the commencement of this article, proceeds, in his letter the Mayoress, to say : "It is rather quiet here this morning baring a few smoke boxes (shells) flying about, so I have taken the opportunity of thanking you and the ladies who are doing their best to comfort the boys at the front. An Exonian member of the 24th Field Ambulance, 8th Division, thanks the Mayoress for the boxing gloves, which "are most acceptable and will help to pass away our spare time." He adds: "The parcels which you have sent in the past have been most acceptable, and have wanted for nothing, thanks to your kind thoughts." The writer then refers to the hospitality at the railway stations, and says: "I must mention how much the boys appreciate the kindness shown to them when passing through our Ever Faithful City, which will always remain in their thoughts."
Pte. —— speaks in a letter to his mother of the grand parcel he has received from the Mayoress's Depot. "The biscuits are grand,, I can tell you. I had to go up with the guns last night, and I was eating them all night, but have some left yet."
The officers, too, testify to the value of the Hospitality part of the Depot's activities. Writing from Madras, Lieut. J. H. Coombes, the 2d/4th Batt. Devon Regiment, says he has "noted the good work of the Mayoress of Exeter and her helpers, and fully appreciates the receptability of hot tea, etc., by travellers by a troop train." He enclosed cheque for 10s. towards the Fund.
Western Times - Saturday 04 September 1915

NO PUTTEES
To be Worn by Soldiers in the Trenches

The War Office has decided to abandon puttees and adopt long boots as part of the equipment of our soldiers in the trenches.
Puttees will be retained for home service and for marching purposes.
The decision has been taken in deference to representations that puttees are unsuited for use in the trenches, especially in the winter.
This view is fully borne out by the experience of our troops the front. The change will take effect without delay.
(editors note - at that time Coldharbour Mill near Uffculme was the only producer of woollen cloth for puttees in the country)
Western Times - Monday 06 September 1915

Notes of the Day.

Lieut W. L. G. Mortimer, 6th Royal Dublin Fusiliers, whose death has been reported from the Dardanelles was the youngest son, aged 20, of the late Rev. R. A. Mortimer, for many years rector of St. Mary Major. Exeter, and of Mrs. Mortimer of Frome. Deceased was a popular officer, and known to his more intimate friends as ”Bun." He was of fine physique, being over 6ft., and a keen athlete.
Another member of the Exeter Police Force has distinguished himself by gallantry in Franee. I refer to Corporal W. Hammond, of the 35th Battery, Royal Field Artillery, who has been awarded the Medal St. George, second class, by the Czar of Russia. The Exonian, who lives in Weirfield-road, was mentioned in despatches by Commander-in-Chief of the British Expeditionary Force for his bravery at the battle of Neuve Chapelle. It may be remembered that P.C. Townhill, who is also serving in the Royal Field Artillery, was mentioned some time ago for heroic conduct in rescuing an officer from a perilous position under very heavy fire. About twelve men attached to the Exeter Force are in France.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Monday 06 September 1915

BITTEN BY DOGS.

Three boys were bitten by dogs in Exeter, yesterday, so seriously that they had to treated at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital. One lad, named Gorfin, of Trinity-street,, was bitten by a dog in the leg. His companion was bitten in the hand by the dog. The third case was that of a little boy. named Hattishill, whose parents reside at 36, Coronation-road. Wonford. In this case the little fellow is said to have been attacked by bulldog, which bit him severely In the head. Mr. Patten of St David’s-hill who was passing, kindly conveyed the mother and the lad to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, where necessary to put four stitches in the wounds.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Tuesday 07 September 1915

Notes of the Day
King and Queen visit Exeter

During the eighteen centuries of unbroken existence which the City of Exeter can boast there have been numerous Royal visits. But never did King or Queen set foot in the “Ever Faithful” with a more laudable object than yesterday, when King George end Queen Mary arrived in the city to show their personal interest in the gallant soldiers who are being treated at the V.A.O. Hospitals in the city and neighbourhood, and their appreciation of the splendid work carried out by the medical and nursing staffs of those Hospitals. Although the visit was kept as private as possible, many thousands of people lined the route taken by their Majesties, and sincerest loyalty was displayed. The occasion and the circumstances of the time naturally had a subduing effect on popular demonstrations. But it was easy to comprehend that the sympathetic feelings which prompted the Royal visit touched the heart-strings of the people very fully, and found their vent in numerous indications of sincere appreciation of the kindly acts of the King and Queen.
Their Majesties looked extremely well. The King was in the khaki uniform of a FieId-Marshal of the British Army. The Queen wore a handsome navy blue costume, I and a toque brimmed with pale red flowers, King George repeatedly saluted in acknowledgment of the public expressions of well come, while the Quean constantly smiled and bowed. The weather was a delightful example of a September day, the arrangements worked excellently, and the only regret was that at the back of all the proceedings there was the terrible spectre of war. There were abundant tokens the loyalty which Exonians entertain towards the Throne, and in happier days the reception their Majesties would have rivalled that accorded them when, on 4th July 1899, they visited the city as the Duke and Duchess of York for the purpose of opening the extension to the Royal Albert Memorial in Queen-street, constructed to commemorate the 1897 Jubilee of Queen Victoria…
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Thursday 09 September 1915

Entertainment for the wounded

The entertainment, which was given to the wounded at the Victoria Hall after the departure of their Majesties must have entailed a huge amount of work, and it speaks well for the arrangements made that everything went off smoothly. Those who had worked hard in connexion with the entertainment, however, must have been amply rewarded by seeing the heroes of the battlefields of Flanders and the Dardanelles enjoying themselves as they did. It was probably the first time that large number as between 800 and 900 wounded soldiers had gathered together under one roof in Exeter, and was a real delight see them so cheerfully and bravely defying their aches and pains, or weakness or loss of limb. Nothing have been more inspiring than the lusty cheers given these soldiers when the health their Majesties was proposed, and, coming from men who had received wounds—severe in many cases–while fighting for their King and country, made them extremely impressive. The work transporting the guests to and fro necessitated no fewer than 200 cars, but, thanks to the patriotic attitude of owners in various parts of the county, all required were lent.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Thursday 09 September 1915

Cycle accident

On enquiry the Royal Devon and Hospital last evening we were informed that the youth, Albert Madge, who met with serious accident on Wednesday through colliding, while cycling, with a taxi-cab in Queen-street, Exeter, had passed comfortable day.
Western Times - Friday 10 September 1915

ABSENT CAROLINE
Exeter Offender Who Makes Off When Enquiries are Afoot

At the Exeter Police Court, yesterday, a cab driver living at King William terrace was charged before Messrs. J. Stokes (in the chair), P. Kelland, H. Hall and P. Gayton with being drunk while in charge of a horse and cab in Alphington-street, Monday night. A constable who stopped him put him in his own cab to take him to the police station. The fine was 7s 6d.
There were two other cases before the Bench yesterday. Guiseppi Rossi, a young Italian, admitted obstructing Fore-street with an ice cream cart. According to the police, he loitered about and stopped talking to boys forty minutes on one occasion and thirty minutes on another. This was the second conviction against Rossi, and the fine was 2s 6d.
Caroline Powell, alias Harris, of King-street, did not answer a summons for obscene language. Inspector Martin told the Bench that she was in the habit of leaving home for a time if enquiries were being made about her. For instance, she went away when the authorities wanted to serve registration papers recently, and gave a lot of trouble before the necessary particulars were obtained from her There were five previous convictions, and the Bench imposed a fine of 15s or fourteen days.
Western Times - Wednesday 15 September 1915

Shakespearean
WEEK IN EXETER.
MR. F. E. BENSON'S VISIT.

Mr F. R. Benson, the brilliant and scholarly Shakespearean actor, is to pay a welcome visit to Exeter next week, and patrons of the Theatre Royal will be provided with a splendid series of the great bard's plays. From a dramatic standpoint this engagement is one of the most important secured by the management for a considerable time, and no lover of the great poet can afford to miss so rare an opportunity of hearing the finest dramatic compositions of any age interpreted by so gifted an artiste as Mr. Benson. The repertoire which Mr. Benson will present has been arranged as follows: —Monday, the ever popular “Taming of the Shrew"; Tuesday (matinee), that high-water mark of Elizabethan tragedy, “Macbeth"; evening, the delightful comedy, "Twelfth Night"; Thursday evening, the great war play, “Henry V" in which Mr. Benson created such a sensation at the Shaftesbury Theatre, London ; Friday, matinee, "The Merchant of Venice"; evening, that delicious comedy, "The Merry Wives of Windsor" ; Saturday, the great tragedy, "Hamlet." On Wednesday evening there will a special revival of Mr. Stephen Phillips’s beautiful blank-verse drama, “Paola and Francesca," the only non-Shakespearean play of the week, Written by one of the greatest of our modern dramatists, this play, when produced at the St. James's Theatre, London, with Mr. Henry Ainley and other well-known artists the caste broke all records, and it only special arrangement with Sir George Alexander that Mr. Benson is able to present it before his patrons in Exeter.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Saturday 18 September 1915

OBSTRUCTING A TRAM
Prosecution at the Exeter Police Court

A summons was heard at Exeter Policy Court on Saturday, before Messrs. P. Kelland (in the chair), T. S. Mortimer, and B. H. Munro, against a resident of Longdown, who was alleged to have driven a spring wagon immediately in front of a tramcar down Fore-street, and to have refused to draw on one side, despite the continual ringing of a bell by the driver of the car. Ernest Miles, of Homefield, Longdown, pleaded not guilty to preventing the free passage of a tram car on Fore-street hill. Chief Inspector Martin told the Magistrates that defendant was driving a spring waggon, and opposite King-street was overtaken by a tramcar. The driver of the car sounded his gong, and there was plenty room for Mr. Miles to draw on one side. He continued, however, to go at a very slow pace right in front of the car. Once he stopped dead, and the driver had to put his magnetic brake to prevent a collision. Miles then went on again at the same slow pace to Exe Bridge, where the driver spoke to a policeman. The car was delayed five minutes, and when defendant was told would be reported said, "I have had a of trouble with these tram chaps."
The driver of the car, two passengers, and a county policeman gave evidence. —P. G. Harvey, of the City Force, said when he spoke to defendant he replied, "These tram chaps when they pass my pony ring the bell always, and the pony has no nerve to pass a car or let one pass it."
Defendant, on oath, said that his pony was frightened on one occasion through some tram conductors fooling about on a train. They threw a coat which went on the horse’s head, and she never forgot it. On the occasion in question he denied there was obstruction, for his pony was never out of a trot. She heard the constant clanging of a bell, and it would have been criminal folly for him to pull in, having regard to the nervousness of his pony and the slippery state of the stones. In answer to Inspector Martin he said he had no knowledge of driving on Fore-street hill on September 3rd and obstructing tram car; nor did he remember the driver speaking to him about it.
The Bench came to the conclusion there was wilful obstruction, and imposed a fine, of 20s.–“It is gross a injustice," remarked the defendant.
Western Times - Monday 20 September 1915

ECONOMY IN COAL.

A letter was read from the Board of Trade suggesting the accumulation of stocks of coal in the case of undertakings under the Council's control, and the making arrangement with the principal merchants for the limitation of the sale price of household coals in Exeter. The Mayor moved that the Chairmen of the Electric Light works (Alderman Reed), the Waterworks (Alderman the Asylum Committee (Councillor Munro) appointed as Special Committee to consider the communication. The Deputy Mayor seconded the resolution, which was agreed to.
Western Times - Wednesday 22 September 1915

Motor Collision
AT EXETER.
TWO OFFICERS INJURED.

An accident occurred at Livery Dole, Exeter, Saturday afternoon. At about half-past three the Mayor (Mr. J. G. Owen) was driving a motor car along Heavitree Road accompanied, Mr. H. Lloyd Parry (Town Clerk) and Mr. Snowball (Headmaster of Hele’s School). He was in the act of turning into Polsloe-road, when motor: cycle, with a side-car, driven by Lieut.G. Dupre, who was accompanied by Lieut. Metcalfe, both of the Worcestershire Regiment, collided with the car. Both officers were injured. Lieut. sustained injury to his foot, and Lieut. Metcalfe was in a semiconscious condition. P. C. Wood rendered first aid, and the officers were conveyed to hospital in a motor car belonging to Lord Clinton, which happened to be passing at the time. Both car and cycle were damaged.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Monday 27 September 1915

45th (WESSEX) DIVISIONAL SIGNAL
CO., RE., A.F.C.

To the Editor of the Daily Gazette,
Sir, —May I, through the medium of your paper, appeal to the Association football enthusiasts of Devon on behalf of the men the 45th Signal Co., R.E., the majority whom are Devonians. We realise that many Clubs have been disbanded owing to war, and think some of their supporters will be glad of the opportunity helping to provide relaxation, for those who are preparing for their country's service. Any gifts of either money or outfit will be gratefully accepted and acknowledged
Yours truly,
W. H. FIELD, Sergt.
(Hon. Treasurer),
Iford Camp, Christ church, Sept. 25th.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Tuesday 28 September 1915

August 1915

EXETER COUNCIL
TURF LOCK GATE.

Capt. Garnsworthy, in moving the adoption of the Navigation Committee's report, referred to the repairs which had been done to the higher Turf Lock gates. He said the gates were finished on Saturday. The water was run on as a test, and minor leak was put to rights. On Sunday, at 5.30 p.m.. the canal was finally opened. The total cost of the work was £279, but the greater part the £145 paid in wages was to full-time men, so that that item would go to make the total canal cost so much less for the month. Capt. Garnsworthy went on to compliment the Surveyor, the Assistant Surveyor, and the Canal Foreman, the latter of whom, said, he said had already justified his appointment.
Mr. Hamlin seconded the adoption of the report, and remarked, amid laughter, that thanks to careful supervision and the regular attendance of the Committee's Chairman on the scene, the officials had carried out their work well. The report was carried.
Western Times - Wednesday 04 August 1915

Accident to an Exeter Wagoner

A serious accident befell a wagoner, named James Bishop, in the employ of Mr. W. R. Mallett, miller, of Exwick Mills, Exeter, last evening. The man. who is about 60 years of age, and lives at St. Andrews-road Exwick, was returning from a journey with three horses and a wagon, when, owing to one of the animals stumbling, the driver was thrown off the wagon and sustained severe injuries, including a fracture of the left leg, a bad cut on the head, and abrasions of the hands. He was conveyed by Mr. Trimble in a motor-car to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, where, after receiving attention, he was detained.
Western Times - Thursday 05 August 1915

Special entertainment at Exeter Hippodrome

The ground floor of the Exeter Hippodrome was completely occupied Saturday afternoon by wounded soldiers and members of the staffs of the local V. A. D. Hospitals, the occasion being another of the entertainments arranged by Mr Jack Fitchett, the popular manager for the wounded men quartered in the city. The site was in some respects a pathetic one for twenty-two stretcher patients were carried in to witness the performance. They were accompanied in the pit stall spaces, and, despite the injuries from which they are suffering they thoroughly enjoyed the performance. Upstairs were children and old people from both the city and St. Thomas Workhouses and boys from the Whipton Reformatory and Exminster Industrial School. In fact, every part of the house was filled, and there were many more present than on the occasion of any of the previous entertainments of the same kind.
All the artistes of the week appeared, and gave the usual shows, putting in a special effort to please their audience. Mr Owen was present on behalf of the Mayor and Mayoress of Exeter, while among those who attended by special invitation were Mrs Fetherstone, who takes a personal interest in these entertainments, and her friends from Pinhoe. Mr Fitchett was assisted in his arrangements by Mrs Venn and Miss Venn, Mrs Snow and Miss Snow, and the voluntary helpers of the Hippodrome’s ”Band of Hope.” Cigarettes were sent by the Mayoress, and the Manager and patrons of the house also provided cigarettes, tobacco, tea and chocolates for those present. Altogether it was quite a memborable afternoon.
Western Times - Monday 09 August 1915

Exeter Guardians.
JUVENILE AFFAIRS,
ECONOMY IN DIETARY

At the meeting of the Exeter Corporation the Poor, yesterday, the Children's Committee stated that the following report had been received from the Master of the Newtown Boys' School upon the children attending there:— ”Until quite recently the boys from the institution have been attending regularly with their usual good conduct. But this week there has been epidemic of stone-throwing. A regular battle occurred between them and the Practising School boys, with the result that one of the latter had his head severely cut. Otherwise, the boys from the Home have been doing good work." The following report of the Mistress of Newtown Girls' School was also read:— “The conduct of the girls from the Childrens Home is satisfactory, but the progress not as good as one would wish. The children seem have no ambition, and show very little energy in their work."
Mr. Munro moved adoption of tile report. Colonel Blake said it was rather regrettable to receive such a report about the girls from their schoolmistress. He desired to know whether the Corporation could give prizes with a view to arousing more interest in their work. The children were kept at play during their holidays in an old room and yard, the latter having a high wall around it. He did not know whether they could have the use one of the gardens at the Workhouse. The yard was asphalted, and, with the surrounding high walls, was not altogether a very enviable place in which to play…
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Wednesday 11 August 1915

EXETER FIRST.
V.A.D. Hospital Uses a New Antiseptic

No. 5 V.A.D. Hospital, Castle-street, Exeter, has the distinction of being the first hospital to adopt a new antiseptic, and use it with success. The new solution was discovered by four Scotsmen, and the result of their researches was published in the "British Medical Journal” on Saturday, July 26th. The article came under the notice of Dr. Samways, who was impressed that it was good article. A quantity of the solution was made up, and on the Monday—two days after the discovery was announced—it was in use at No. 5 Hospital, which consequently anticipated its use in France by ten days.
Interviewed yesterday, Dr. Samways and Dr. Dyball said the new antiseptic was entirely satisfactory. It had many advantages over every other formula. For one thing it was cheap, gallon costing about a penny, it did its work quickly, and there was no fear of destruction of the tissues as it was the case with some rapid working antiseptics. There was no stain and, so far as had yet been discovered, no other drawback. The doctors were particularly proud that the discovery of valuable formulae should have been made by Britishers.
A component part of the preparation is bleaching powder, so that matter which has for years been used for disinfecting drains now is now being utilised for the treatment of wounds.
Western Times - Wednesday 11 August 1915

EXETER COLLISION.
POLICE-COURT SEQUEL

At Exeter Police-court yesterday Arthur Brealy, waggoner. 12, Friar's Gate, Holloway-street was summoned for being the driver of a horse and waggon in Bonhay-road and not keeping up on the left near side. He pleaded guilty. Chief-Inspector Martin said he was at junction of Bonhay-road and Bridge-street when he noticed the Post-offlce mail motor entering Bonhay-road on its left side and travelling about four miles an hour. The driver sounded his horn, but had hardly got the car's length into Bonhay when he collided with a waggon, laden with hay, and driven by the defendant. The off wheel of the waggon was only 8ft. from the wrong side of the road, which at that spot was 30ft. wide. After the collision the horse sprang on to the path and had been for a soldier holding it a serious accident probably have occurred. The driver was sitting on the shafts of the waggon at the time. A fine of 7s 6d was imposed.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Thursday 12 August 1915

Left Exeter for Exeter's Good

A defendant who was to have answered an adjourned charge at the Exeter Police Court Wednesday, was reported by the police to be missing. He was a ship's fireman named John Harris, of Preston-street, and he was charged with wandering in Martin’s-lane August 4th for the purposes of begging. Last week when was first charged he said was old army veteran, and a remand was ordered that enquiries could made. The Chief Constable new reported that Harris had been proved to be an imposter, and since the adjournment had absconded—which perhaps, added the Chief, was the best thing that could happen for Exeter.—The Bench decided to adjourn the case sine die, so that if Harris returns he can be at once arrested.
Western Times - Friday 13 August 1915

CONVINCING TRIBUTES

Rarely if ever, have such a striking tributes of praise for Exeter’s work for the troops been received at the Mayoress’s Depot then were in the post-bag yesterday. The most striking of all is contained in the letter of a young Exeter officer. It is a letter received by Mrs. B de Vere Welchman from her son, and Mrs Welchman forwarded to the Mayoress yesterday from the Abbotts Lodge, The Close, the following extract from it: "We stopped unexpectedly at St David’s at 2 a.m. but only for a few minutes. The Mayoresses Committee came and gave our men coffee and bags of cakes and things, and little cards in them and good wishes. You dear people can never realise what that sort of thing means to fellows. All of them still talk frequently of it. They write to their people of it. Some of them have sent the cards home, as been part of their few cherished possessions, and they are all very anxious that I should write and say how grateful and touched they are. As a matter of fact, it did them physically an enormous amount of good. It was the one bright spot on leaving their country, and they got their own cheer and handshake after leaving ––––. All the men, not only my own battery, but of the others, felt the kindness more than one would ever believe, and I can't tell you how proud I was, and am, that it was my dear old Exeter which proved the golden spot for them. I can guarantee that the men will never forget it. It seems a little exaggerated, our benefactors will say, but it isn't, and even though you don't know the real magnitude of the splendid work they are doing. Will you mind telling the Mayoress about it, please."
Western Times - Saturday 14 August 1915

EXETER
ROLLER FATALITY,
INQUEST LAST EVENING

Three City Coroner (Mr W Linford Brown) held an inquest at the Police Station, Exeter, last evening, relative to the death of Edward Frederick Fowler, a labourer, in the employ of the council, through being knocked down by a steam-roller on Thursday…
Mr A. E. Avery, fitter, of 12, Cowick Road, identified the body is that of his father-in-law. He had never known deceased to faint or have fits. He was employed by the council as a general labourer.
The wife of the deceased said a husband was 55 years old. His health was very good, have you had no doctor for 20 years. He went to his work about six. 10 on Thursday morning and was all right then.
Arthur Downey, of the V.A.O., 29, West-street, said he was outside his door at 8.15 on that morning in question, and he saw the roller go by, and deceased on the right side of it by the front wheel. The engine was going very slowly, with a lorry attached. Deceased passed, just after someone called out, and he saw deceased on the ground, the engine having pulled up. Deceased was about six feet in front of the engine when witness first saw him. He saw no horse passing at the time.
Mrs Whitfield, 32, street, said she was going home, and sort this is crossing the road from the right-hand side, about a yard in front of the engine. Deceased appeared to trip and fall, the witness screamed. The roller was going very slowly when it went over the deceased. Deceased fell about the centre of the engine.
Mrs Florence Darby, 38, West-street, deposed to seeing the roller coming and deceased crossing the road. Witness saw a horse and cart. The animal appeared to be quiet, and decease was walking away from it, when it jumped. This is seen to trip and fall on his face and hands in front of the engine. The driver pulled up immediately.
George Beer, waggoner, in the employee of Mr Kivell, said he was going along West-street with a horse and wagon, and the deceased was walking in front of the engine. Witness was walking with the horse, which did not jump, except at looking at the engine as it passed. Deceased did not try to catch hold of it, but he fell. Witness could give no reason for his falling, but he shouted to the driver, who pulled up quickly.
Mr E.W. Badcock, dairyman, Alphington-street, was delivering milk at West-street, and stood at his horse’s head while the engine passed. Deceased was several yards in front of the engine, and he went to the tail of his cart, and heard a scream, and saw the left-hand wheel of the engine pass over the deceased. Witness ran over to him, and saw he was dead. In answer to witness, the driver said "It is my mate, I think he must have had a fit." Witness’s horse was not at all restive, as had been suggested, that day.
Mr Fred Denning, the driver of the roller, said he desired to give evidence. He had been a driver for eight years. On the previous morning he was driving a motor up West-street. The deceased was walking on the right-side of the engine. He was four feet to six feet in front, and witness could see him. He passed Mr Badcock's horse all right, then came to Mr Kivell’s horse, which was very restive. Deceased did not go over to it. His attention was drawn to the horse, which jumped. He heard a woman scream and pulled up immediately. He looked out over his engine and saw the wheel resting on deceased’s back. He did not see the deceased fall. He could not have been going about a mile an hour.
Dr. Periera said he saw deceased at the mortuary. He examined the body. There were very extensive injuries all over the body. The cause of death was shock, due to extensive injuries.
The Coroner, in addressing the jury, said they might dispose of the idea that the man had a seizue, a fit, or heart failure. He did not think there was any blame attached to anyone.
The jury returned a verdict of "accidental death," and were of the opinion that no blame was attached to anyone. The foreman added that the jury thought that there should be a regulation that an advance man should keep a certain distance in front of the engine.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Saturday 14 August 1915

Drunk and disorderly

Driver E. Nicholls, of the R.F.A., and Driver F T. Harman, of the R.F.A., were charged with being drunk and disorderly in Sidwell-street on Friday. They admitted being drunk, but denied the disorder—P.C. Heale described their language as very bad. They had previously been cautioned by a constable in the High-street.—Defendants were each fined 5s.
Western Times - Monday 16 August 1915

DROWNING
THE INQUEST

“Accidentally drowned" was the verdict returned at an inquest held by the City Coroner (Mr W Linford Brown), at the Court House, Exeter, on Saturday evening, touching the death of Albert Edward Jeffery, aged 8, who was drowned in the Quay on Thursday morning.
Frank Hancock, a little chap with six, made a statement to the effect that he went to the Quay with deceased on Thursday morning. Jeffrey, while throwing stones into the water, fell in. Witness saw his head rise to the surface several times, and informed deceased’s mother of the fatality…
PC Skinner, of the Exeter police, told the jury that he was at the Quay on the morning in question, and heard a Council employee say that the boy was drowned. He procured a grappling iron and boathook but failed to recover deceased. Witness was at the Police Station in the evening when a message was received intimating that the last witness found the body, and he (witness) went to the spot and removed deceased to the mortuary…
The Coroner, summing up, remarked that the explanations of Messrs, Legassick and Delamere for not entering the water were quite reasonable. Anybody who had passed near the river lately will be aware that the water had been thick, and it would not be possible to see a body even from a boat.
The jurors expressed sympathy with the relatives of deceased, and action in which the Coroner joined.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Monday 23 August 1915

Causing an obstruction

For leaving a motor car unattended in Queen-street, Exeter, for nearly an hour on the 18th inst. and thereby causing an obstruction, Charles Hallewell Steele, of 72, Old Tiverton-road, was fined 10s at the City Police Court yesterday. Defendant explained that he was engaged important business at an office close by, and overlooked the fact that his car was being left unattended so long.—The Magistrates present were Messrs. P. .R. Gavton (in the chair), P. Kelland and H. Hall
Western Times - Wednesday 25 August 1915

MUNITION MAKING

Factory To Be Started in Exeter Without Delay
Since the meeting held in the Guildlhall on the 29th of June, which was addressed by Mr. P. K. Stottert, the Chairman of the West of England Munition Committee, careful consideration has been given to the best method to be adopted by the City of Exeter for the output of munitions war. A hope was entertained that the Ministry of Munitions might possibly see its way to establish a national factory the city, but this was found to be impracticable for reasons which seemed good for the Government. It was then suggested by the Ministry of Munitions that two courses were open to those interested this all important work for Exeter, the one was that the owners of machine tools should send these to one of the existing national factories, and the other was that sufficient capital should be subscribed locally wherewith to start a munition factory in the form of a small Limited Liability Company under the management of well-known business men.
The heads of the various firms owning machine tools were called together, and their alternatives placed before them, when not unnaturally they expressed their preference for lending their tools to a local factory to be established in Exeter rather than sending them further from home.
A census of the machine tools of the district was taken, and out of total of 87 machine tools 57 were offered on loan for this purpose.
Steps were then taken to try and raise the necessary capital, and several gentlemen were approached in both the city and county. A generous response was at once received, and to the present over £2,000 has already been promised. With this amount it is possible to actually to start operations, but it felt that if additional £2,000 can be raised the proposed company, which is now being formed, will be in a better position to turn out more shells within a shorter space of time…
… A lease of a suitable factory has been obtained from the Vulcan Stove Co., Ltd., and the Directors, realising the urgent necessities of the case, have already taken upon their shoulders the responsibility of giving orders for the equipping of this factory with the necessary power and shafting, so that no time may be lost after the tools are assembled there in making an immediate start upon the manufacture of shells.
Messrs. Willey and Co., have generously offered to the munition factory the services Mr. F. T. Clapham, their works manager, who is well-known as a capable engineer, used to Government work, and a first-class organiser. It is estimated that at least 500 shell cases per week can turned out, and if more capital is subscribed this could be considerably increased, and should also be borne in mind that if more lathes and tools can be borrowed, as well as purchased, the output will be still further increased.
It must be clearly understood that in starting this factory the subscribers and Directors are not looking to the making of profits, their one and only desire being to what they can to help their country. They feel that it is only right that, if possible, a reasonable interest should be paid on the capital subscribed, but that in the unlikely event larger profits accruing the surplus should be given to some charitable fund or hospital.
Western Times - Friday 27 August 1915

Mayoress' Depot

The Holsworthy Ladies Working Party have this week sent to the Mayoress of Exeter's Depot, ten dozen each khaki handkerchiefs, leather boot laces, indelible pencils, and one dozen writing pads.
Western Times - Saturday 28 August 1915

July 1915

FRUIT, VEGETABLES, AND JAM FOR THE FLEET.

Gifts of gooseberries, peas, or beans will be especially welcomed at this season by the Exeter branch of the Vegetable Products Committee and can be received at the depot in Queen-street any day from 10 to 1, and any other time at the Guildhall. The hon, secretary will be pleased to acknowledge gifts of money tor purchase vegetables, etc,. from any who may feel inclined to contribute but are unable send vegetables or fruit.
Cornishman - Thursday 1 July 1915

Royal Academy for F J Widgery

The Autotype Fine Art Company, of London, whose publications of famous pictures of the great Galleries of Europe are so well known, have informed Mr. F. J. Widgery, of Exeter, of their desire to publish, in reproduction form, his pencil drawing of Seaton Headland, now hanging in the Roval Academy, and to place a copy in their galleries. It is satisfactory to learn that such a practical form of appreciation should be extended to an Exonian not that Mr. Widgery's work is unknown, both in this country and many others, but with such wide connexions the as the Autotype Company possess, it cannot fail enlarge the reputation of work that has already earned high appreciation.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Thursday 1 July 1915

CATHEDRAL CADETS

Presentation of Drum and Symbals to the Band
An interesting ceremony took place at the Exeter Cathedral School recently, when a drum and cymbals were presented to the band of the School Cadet Corps by Second Lieut. G. de Vere Welchman, R.F.A., son of the esteemed Headmaster (Rev. H. de Vere Welchman). Second-Lieut. Welchman, who has already had his baptism of fire at the Front, and was home on brief leave before proceeding again on active service, has always taken the keenest interest and pride in the Cadet Corps which was formed while he was a pupil at the school, and was under his command until he proceeded to the Royal Military Academy. In handing over the gift to his old Corps, Lieut. Welchman said he was not a stranger—(applause)— but one of themselves, and so he was not going to make any ceremonial speech. He hoped they would use the instruments as much as possible, and he was very glad to find the band and Corps "better than ever." He also paid a warm tribute to Mr. A. R. Palmer, to whose training as honorary bandmaster the band owed its efficiency.
Western Times - Saturday 3 July 1915

Enlist for India

I learn that there are still vacancies for recruits in the 3rd-4th Devons. Men desirous of a probable term of service in India would do well to enlist without further delay at the Drill Hall, Bedford Circus, Exeter.Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Monday 5 July 1915

Patriotic Song

The Mayoress Exeter's War Fund is to receive profits derived from the sale of a new patriotic song, "Every Man," which has just been published by Messrs. Paish and Co., of Exeter, Torquay, and Paignton. The song has been written by Mr. J. H. Wyndham, and the music composed by Messrs. Graham Thornley and Richard Amstel. Neither the writer nor the composers will receive any benefit from the sale, they have given their royalty and their copyright to the Mayoress of Exeter. Originality and effectiveness characterise the song, which, with its taking tune, should make a hit. The chorus runs: "
And they're tramp, tramp, tramping freedom,
With their hearts brave and true.
Won't you tramp, tramp, tramp, and try to help them.
Won't you do your small bit too?
Come and help heal the wounded,
Go and join them those who can,
Don't say that your're afraid,
And wait until your'e made,
Because they want you. ev'ry man,
And they’II want you, ev’ry man."
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Wednesday 7 July 1915

23,000 CIGARETTES.
What Exeter Has Sent to the Dardanelles

It will be remembered that only quite recently the Mayoress of Exeter appealed for money to enable her, through the Depot, to send tobacco to the troops in the Dardanelles. Subscribers will be interested to learn that already 71lbs. of tobacco and 23,000 cigarettes have been sent out from the Exeter Depot to be divided between the English and Australian contingents. That is surely a good record for so short a time, and illustrates once more how many-sided is the work being carried out by tht Depot.
Western Times - Wednesday 14 July 1915

Exonian Who Has Been All Through the War

The Exeter City amateur goalkeeper, J. Chapman, who has been serving the Front with the R.F A ever since the war started, is home on leave. He has so far escaped without illness or the least injury. Not long ago he was playing in a football match in the rear the firing lines, and states that the eleven of a Scottish regiment whom his team were opposed, no fewer than eight were in the casualty list resulting from a battle fought two or three days later. Chapman recently succeeded in finding the grave of his former Exeter City Reserves' captain and sports' pal, Sergt. White, of the Devons, who was killed early in the war.
Western Times - Thursday 15 July 1915

KILLED ACTION
Old Exeter Rugby Footballer's Career Ended

"Jimmy" Cook, the old Exeter Rugby footballer, has been killed at the Front. The sad news reached his parents, who live in Buller-road, St. Thomas, yesterday, and was conveyed in a sympathetic letter from the officer of his regiment, which stated that their son had been killed by a bomb in the trenches. Jimmy Cook was one of the most popular as he was also one of the most brilliant three-quarters who did duty for Exeter half a score years ago. On the small side, he was one of the fleetest-footed wing "threes" in the county at a time when Devon could boast of many first-class men. His nippiness and speed were his great asset, and many a thrill has he sent through the crowd on the County Ground when, placed in possession of the ball, he has jumped off the mark to leave the opposition virtually standing still. Jimmy was a prolific try-getter, and it caused much regret locally when his brilliant football talent led to his seeking further laurels in the Albion ranks. Later. Cook migrated, as so many other fine products of the West have done, to the Northern Union, and became attached to the Salford Club, with which team had a wonderfully successful career. After the outbreak of the war he joined the King’s Royal Rifles, to the roll of honour of which splendid regiment his name is now added. His death will be deplored by his numerous friends, whose sympathy, too, will go out to his parents.
Western Times - Thursday 15 July 1915

FUNERALS AT EXETER.
A Young Territorial Laid to Rest at Higher Cemetery

The funeral took place at the Higher Cemetery, Exeter, this afternoon, of Private Edwin G. Chenneour, of B Co., 1st-7th Devon Regiment, who died after a painfully short illness at the Rockwood Military Hospital, Torquay, on Sunday. He was only nineteen years old, and had been a keen soldier and popular with all his comrades. He was an old St. John's Hospital schoolboy, and his father has been for years of the tenant, the Horse and Groom Inn, Longbrook-street. Exeter. Deceased had been stationed at Paignton for some time, and had been altogether about two years in the Territorials. …
Western Times - Friday 16 July 1915

Cyclist Dashes Into a Motor-Car

William Paige, married, aged 43, of Barbican-place, Paul-street, Exeter, was on Sunday afternoon cycling down Kenton-hill, Kenton, when he dashed into a motor-car near the triangle. He sustained a fractured skull, and was conveyed to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, where an operation was performed. Last evening Paige, who is a tailor, was going on well as could be expected.
Western Times - Tuesday 20 July 1915

Sleeping Tramp

Yesterday, at Exeter, Thomas Bartlett, tramp, no fixed address, was summoned for wandering abroad and lodging in the open air in Hill's-court, Cowick-street, without having visible means of subsistence, or being able to give a good account of himself. Accused pleaded guilty. He was found asleep in the Court on Sunday. Bartlett was before the Bench on Saturday on a similar charge, when he promised to go to the Workhouse. Sentence of 14 days' imprisonment was passed.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Tuesday 20 July 1915

EXETER EMPIRE.
RE-OPENING WEEK

The Exeter Empire Electric Theatre has re-opened, after being closed a week for decoration, with a splendid selection of films. The Theatre has been repainted and now looks as attractive as ever. The 22nd episode of the Million Dollar Mystery, "The Waterloo of the Conspirators," is another stirring part a magnificent set of spools. The reporter (Jim Norton) in this episode finds the cave of conspirators, and, with the aid of six constables, manages to round up the Black Hundred. The scenery of the film is magnificent. Another drama is "Terrors the Jungle,” by the Bison Company. The “Gaumont Graphic” supplies all the latest news in pictures. The comic side of the programme is supplied by ”High Sports on Broadway'' and "Giddy, Gay, and Ticklish,” both of which are good Keystone comedies, the latter introducing Syd Chaplin, the latest addition to the Keystone Company, who is nearly good as the famous mirth-raiser, Charlie Chaplin. For Thursday next and the rest of the week the Empire has secured ”Behind the Scenes," a famous Players' production in four acts. Among the cast is Mary Pickford.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Tuesday 20 July 1915

Tram Fares

The discussion at the Exeter City Council meeting on tram fares will have enlightened many people, and at least one journalist in the city. I ventured to suggest, when the matter was under discussion some time ago, that the halfpenny fares, which the cause so much bickering, should be withdrawn altogether. It was affirmed that this could not done. But it can be, because under Act of Parliament the lowest fare which the Council need accept is one penny. And I am still of the opinion that the wisest and fairest plan all round would be charge the penny. Under the present arrangement there are many who reap mean advantage, and large numbers who should benefit before others are prevented from doing because they have clean, instead of dirty, clothes. The distances which people are carried thoroughly merit a minimum charge one penny. Besides, the trams are a business, and not a charitable, concern, and should yield more profit than they do to the city.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Thursday 22 July 1915

"Who is the Girl?"

Our new serial, "Who is the Girl?" which begins next Friday in the columns the Western Times," is by Miss Edith Splatt, a Devonshire writer who is already known as the author of a large number of short stories and sketches, and the contributor of the "Woman-Land” column in "The Express and Echo." “Who is the Girl?" will, we believe, be found to be just the sort of story that is being looked for in these strenuous times, when, with so much that is thrilling and tragic the ordinary news columns, readers naturally turn to the fiction department of their journals for relaxation and relief. The plot revolves mainly round a question of identity, for the heroine, Margery, is a waif of unknown parentage, whose introduction to the Devonshire village which most of the scenes the plot are set had been brought about by a railway accident some twenty years before the story opens. Margery, reared among middle-class surroundings, is suddenly, at twenty-one, faced with two discoveries. One is that the son and heir of the chief landowner of the district, an Earl of ancient lineage, is in love with her. The other is apparently a revelation of the secret of her own identity. The problems that arise from the complications that ensue are solved in an original and unexpected fashion, and the plot holds the reader's interest throughout.
Western Times - Friday 23 July 1915

Hare in Exeter Streets

A remarkable sight, or, at least, a very unusual one, was witnessed in the streets of Exeter yesterday, a hare being seen to dart out from a roadway near Higher Summerlands and race full-pelt down Heavitree-hill towards the heart of the city. The most diligent enquiries, however, fail to furnish any trace of its ever having got as far High-street. Where it actually sought refuge, or what was the manner of its untimely end, if it failed to elude the inevitable attentions of stray dog inquisitive pedestrian sportsman, is unknown. In any event however, if had a goodly run of well over half a mile for its cheeky excursion into town life. By the way, isn't March the month generally associated with madness in hare circles?
Western Times - Saturday 24 July 1915

A Soldier's Loss in Exeter

Driver W. J. Stevenson, No. 76247, a member of the Canadian Expeditionary Force, attached to the 29th Battalion Machine Gun Section at Lydd, at present on a brief visit to friends at Exeter, on Friday had the misfortune to lose his wallet, in which were his Regimental pass, two railway tickets (one from Exeter to London, the other from London to Lydd), his Regimental bank book, containing his name, number, and ten £1 notes. If any reader has found the wallet its immediate return to the police or to No. 7, Hoopern-street, will be appreciated. It is probable that the wallet fell from the soldier's pocket somewhere between East Grove-road, Queen-street, and High-street, to which latter Stevenson was coming to buy rubbers for his boot heels.
Western Times - Monday 26 July 1915

Cycle Accident at Exeter

A young man named Jack Barter, of St. Davids-hill, Exeter, met with an accident while cycling in New North-road last evening. He was conveyed by P.C. Parish in the ambulance to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, where he was found that one of his legs was fractured
Western Times - Friday 30 July 1915

An Accident at Exeter

A block was caused in the traffic in Highstreet, Exeter, about 6 o'clock last evening by a simple accident. A carrier's van, belonging to Mr. Parrish, of Bradninch had come from Queen-street, and turned on High-street in the direction of the Post Office, when, just opposite the "Western Times” Office, one of the back wheels caught the tram-track. The spokes were wrenched from their sockets in the axle but held on sufficiently to keep the vehicle in an upright position. Meanwhile the traffic of the trams was held up, and at one time five cars were on the Guildhall side and four on the Post Office side of the waggon. Extra police were promptly on duty to regulate traffic, the block continuing for an hour. About 7 o'clock a trolley was placed under the axle and the waggon was drawn to the side of the street where it remained until the load had been transferred to another vehicle.
Western Times - Saturday 31 July 1915

June 1915

Crime down

Since the war commenced has been a marked diminution of crime throughout the country, and it is satisfactory to know that Exeter shows no exception. Yesterday, at the Police-court, the Mayor was able to make the gratifying announcement that, is there are no prisoners, there will be no City Summer Assize, a fact upon which the citizens may congratulate themselves. We have had a large number of soldiers billeted in the city for many months past. They have been an extraordinarily well-behaved lot of men, and they, as well as the civilian population, have given little or no trouble to the police. Some people may attribute the absence of crime to the restrictions placed upon the sale of intoxicating liquors. But this is not borne out by the statistics from other towns, where similar shortening of ours has not been in force. Whatever the reason, however, it is satisfactory to find that there is a diminution from crime.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Tuesday 01 June 1915

AN EXETER ELOPEMENT
Man’s Wife Obtains a Decree Nisi

In the Divorce Court yesterday, before Mr. Justice Bagrave Deane, Mrs. Florence Bertha Moxon, living in Howell-road, Exeter, was a petitioner for a divorce from Mr. James H Moxon, an engineer, on the ground of desertion and misconduct. The case was undefended.
The petitioner, for whom Mr Willis appeared, so she was married to the respondent on 16th of June, 1910, at the church of St Davids, Exeter. There are on 21st January last year her husband refused to live with her any more. She wrote a letter to him asking him to return to her, and he wrote in reply stating that he could not do so. She brought a suit for the restitution of conjugal rights, and obtained a decree on the 25th June last year, and the husband had not obeyed the decree. She identified her husband's handwriting in a hotel book of a London hotel.
Mr. T. G. Templeman, solicitor, of the firm of Dunn and Baker, Exeter, said that in February last year he endeavoured to get the respondent to return to his wife, and he refused. Respondent told him that he had stayed at a hotel in London with a woman named May Redfern, who had been a servant to his mother.
Another witness produced a book from the hotel to prove that respondent and the woman had stayed there in the name of Mr and Mrs Moxon.
The decree nisi was granted.
Western Times - Wednesday 02 June 1915

AN EXETER HERO
City Footballer Wins Distinguished Conduct Medal

News has reached his friends at Exeter that Corpl. W. A Pim the 27th Division Signal Company (Wessex), R. E., has been promoted to sergeant and has been awarded the D.C,M. "for keeping up communication in the recent heavy fighting under heavy fire and a rifle fire." Pim has forwarded home to his wife living at 41, Regent-street, St. Thomas, the card, dated May 9th, in which his commanding officer informed him that he had been notified of his meritorious conduct on the field, and it is understood that the action of Pim which brought about this commendation occurred about a fortnight previous to that.
Before the war Pim, who is now about 29 years of age, was employed at Messrs. Willey and Co.’s as a brass worker, and was a member of the Exeter Working Men's Society. He will be remembered best, however, as the Soccer player who came into prominence with Friernhay, and subsequently proved, with Exeter City Reserves, one of the most untiring amateur half-backs the City has ever produced. On the field of play he was always the personification of pluck, and football followers will learn with no surprise of his gallantry on the sterner field of war. He joined the R.E. Wessex Territorials last September, and volunteered for active service. Having completed his training at Winchester, he was sent out to the Front late in December, and was promoted to corporal at the beginning of February.
Western Times - Wednesday 02 June 1915

Exeter Police
JOIN THE ARMY.

The Chief Constable reported that since the outbreak of war 33 members of the Force have enlisted, 18 ordinary members of the Force and 15 temporary members. There were eight vacancies in the Force. The situation had been met by reducing the leave of all beat-duty constables from one day in eight to one day in ten, and by rearrangement of beat duty, in order cover the workings with a reduced number of men: this also by cycle patrols. In case of extraordinary sickness or a further depletion of the Force, it might be necessary to utilise the services of special constables, and, in anticipation of such an augmentation, he had commenced classes of instruction of a portion of the body of constables and in the near future they would be available for street duty.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Saturday 05 June 1915

Notes of the Day

The price of meat at Exeter Market yesterday showed a hardening tendency, probably owing to the continually larger purchases by the Government. Best steers touched 20s a score, a record figure, while sales at 21s and 20s were frequent. It looks as if prices were going to be easier, as far as wheat is concerned, but the cost of living is a very serious thing in most households at the present moment. There is a good deal of truth in the remark I heard yesterday that luxuries are the only things that are cheap, and the real necessaries of life are now almost too dear to be indulged in. We must hope for better times, but the outlook for the moment is not very promising.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Saturday 05 June 1915

Boy Knocked Down in an Exeter Street.

A boy named James Hart Greenaway, aged eleven years, of No. 14, Albert-street, Newtown, Exeter, last evening was leaving a fish shop in Clifton-road, Exeter, when he ran in front of a bicycle being ridden by a lad named Cannock. The boy Greenaway was knocked down, and is considered to have fractured his right leg. The unfortunate lad was removed to his home by Corpl. Davey, of the 7th Devons, and P.C. Jarman on hearing of the accident, proceeded to the lad's house and rendered first aid. The police ambulance was procured, and the lad removed to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, where he was detained.
Western Times - Tuesday 15 June 1915

WOUNDED AT EXETER.
The Proposal to Utilise the Workhouse Buildings
LETTER FROM WAR OFFICE

At the meeting of the Exeter Board of Guardians, yesterday, a further letter was read in reference to the proposal to provide accommodation for sick and wounded soldiers in the infirmary buildings at the workhouse. It will be remembered that it was desired by the War Office that the new infirmary, the old infirmary, and the children's quarters should be handed over for the accommodation of the wounded, and that the Guardians replied that the proposal would cause great inconvenience. In their letter, which was sent to the Secretary of the Local Government Board, who forwarded it to the Guardians, the War Office acknowledged the report of the Guardians, and the Army Council considered that to proceed any further with the question of hospital extension of the buildings of the workhouse appeared to be inadvisable. They however, thanked the Guardians for their patriotic desire to assist, and asked that the old infirmary, if it could spared, might be given over for pay office purposes.
The Governor said was pleased to hear that satisfactory reply. He wished to contradict a statement published which seemed to imply that some Guardians were in favour of handing over all the buildings to the War Office. He was in the chair at the meeting, and he understood that the Guardians were unanimous in deciding to reply that it would be a great inconvenience. He did not think there was any opposition to the letter which they sent in reply.
Western Times - Wednesday 16 June 1915

Motor Collision
AT HEAVITREE.
SHOP DAMAGE.

Two motor vans, one belonging to the Exeter Co-operative Society and the other to a London Newspaper Company, collided with each other at the four cross-ways at the top of Magdalen-road, Heavitree, yesterday morning, a spot where a number of accidents have occurred, including a serious motor accident twelve months ago. The two collided in the centre of the road, and so violent was the impact that the Co-operative van was turned towards Heavitree. The newspaper van, driven by Mr. Bert Crocker, skidded into a newspaper and confectionery shop kept by Mrs. Challenger, situated on the corner, and became embedded in the brickwork which supported the shop window. The latter escaped destruction, and the glass was not even smashed. The front of the van, a 28-horse power Daimler, was wrecked. Fortunately, the driver, who hung on to the steering wheel, escaped injury. So tightly had the van become embedded in the brickwork that several hours elapsed before it could be extricated. By means of a derrick and hoisting gear, the front axle and wheels were ultimately disengaged, and the front was lifted on to a trolley and dragged to a garage. The Co-operative Society's van was much damaged, the chasis broken, and the steering gear dislocated. It was immediately taken to Messrs. Gould's Garage.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Thursday 17 June 1915

Latest Subscriptions at Mayoress of Exeter's Depot.

Among the letters received at the Mayoress Exeter's Depot yesterday was one from an officer of a Battalion of Devons training in England, expressing the thanks of his men for bales of socks and shirts.
A similar letter has been sent from the Front on behalf of the 33rd Battery R.F.A., the men of which were formerly at Topsham Barracks. “Major Oldfield and the officers, N.C.O.'s and men," the note runs, "are very grateful for the kind presents sent to the 33rd Battery R.F.A. It is not only the things themselves that they appreciate so highly, but the knowledge that they are remembered by the people of Exeter at such a time as this."
The Quartermaster of No. 1 V.A.D. Hospital, Exeter, wrote a letter of thanks yesterday morning for the 121 eggs sent for the patients there, from the Depot.
Western Times - Thursday 17 June 1915

EXETER YOUTH
DIES OF ASPHYXIATION

The City Coroner (Mr. W. Linford Brown) held an inquest at the Police-station, Exeter, last evening, relative to the death of Arthur Charles Gilbert., 18, East Grove-road. Miss Ethel Gilbert identified deceased as her nephew, who, she said, worked for Mr. Whitman, Magdalen-road. He had had fits when he was about nine years old owing to sunstroke.
Mrs. Gross, with whom deceased had lodged for the last four weeks, said that on Wednesday deceased came home about one o'clock, and said to her "It’s a wonder I see you again. I had an accident. The brake on the front wheel flew.” He added that he threw the ham he was carrying into the road and jumped off the machine. On the 17th she called deceased at 7.45 but, getting no reply, summoned her neighbour, Mr. Pharp who found he was dead.
Mr. Whitman, whose service deceased had been with for about two rears, said Gilbert had had one fit to his knowledge, and had spoken of others. Deceased did not tell him of the accident.
Dr. Heymam Wreford stated that death was due to asphyxia, probably caused his having a fit in bed.
A verdict of “Accidental death” was returned.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Saturday 19 June 1915

War Bonus
RECOMMENDED FOR
EXETER COUNCIL EMPLOYEES.

The Workmen's Wages Committee will report to the Exeter City Council, at Tuesday's meeting of the latter body, that the last meeting of the Committee the Town Clerk stated that the Council had referred the consideration of an increase in wages or war bonus to the Council's employees. The Committee recommended that a war bonus be granted to persons in the full time employ of the City Council (other than those under the supervision of the Governors of the Royal Albert Memorial, the Education Committee, the Watch Committee, and the Visiting Committee of the City Asylum), who are not boarded free by the City Council, and who are in receipt of a salary or a wage not exceeding a week irrespective of overtime pay, in accordance with the following scale: To the unmarried, widowers without children under 15 years age. 1s per week; to married men with not more than three children under 15 years of age, 2s per week; to married men with four or more children under 15 years of age. 3s per week. To persons receiving a salary or wage between 30s and 33s a week, such a bonus as will raise their pay to the same weekly sum they would receive if their salary wage had been 30s a week. The Committee further said that the payment of the bonus be discontinued at the termination of the war or earlier at the will of the City Council, and that the scale, if adopted, be reconsidered at the termination of twenty-six weeks from the adoption. The resolution is to be referred to the Governors of the Royal Albert Memorial, the Education Committee, the Watch Committee, and the Visiting Committee of the City Asylum, to consider the payment of a war bonus to the persons employed under their supervision.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Saturday 19 June 1915

EXETER HIPPODROME.
NEW TURNS.

All the artistes to appear at Exeter Hippodrome next week are now in the city. A special feature will be the Bernard Ash Quartette, who constitute one of the finest and most refined musical parties in Vaudeville. The Quartette comprise Miss May Hessian (soprano, pupil of Sir Charles Santley), Victor Jellen (pianist), Jan Naylor ('cellist), and Bernard Ash (solo violinist). They are delightful entertainers, and will be a genuine treat for all music-lovers. “Orova,” the Killie comedy cyclist; Phil Parsons, the Perky Person; Fred Poplar, comedian; Kitty Wager, comedienne: The Three Jewels, in a novel and artistic dancing act; and Leslie Elliott, the girl at the piano, are the other turns. There will be the usual war pictures on the Bioscope nightly, and Country Stores night at both houses on Friday.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Saturday 19 June 1915

Ex-Soldier Sent to Prison at Exeter

A young ex-soldier, said to without any fixed address, Ernest Fred Crafter, was brought before Mr. H. J. Munro (in the chair), Dr. Vlieland. and Mr. T. S. Mortimer, at the Exeter City Police Court on Saturday, charged with being drunk and disorderly in the High-street, at 11.55 Friday night—P.C. Guest found him lying on the footpath fast asleep, and when he woke him he became very abusive. It was said that Crafter was formerly at Topsham Barracks, and had been discharged from the Army as physically unfit for war service. Crafter said he was a native Woolwich and had been tramping about. He was sent to prison for seven days' hard labour.
Western Times - Monday 21 June 1915

Devon Prisoners
IN GERMANY.
HELP FROM EXETER.

The Mayoress of Exeter's Depot is undertaking yet another new work. This time the welfare of Devonians who are prisoners war in Germany are to be given attention. In the past it has not been possible to do much for these unfortunate Devon Regiment men and sons of Devon who have fallen into the hands of the enemy, but now that the German authorities are supplying lists those whom they hold prisoners the position will be different. The Mayoress of Exeter has already secured, through the War Office a preliminary list of who are prisoners. The list, of course, is by no means complete, but it will be added to from time time, and a complete tally will be kept at the Depot. Friends of Devonians belonging to other regiments who are now in German prison camps should forward to the Depot names and particulars, and they will be added to the Depot's list. From time to time parcels of “comforts" (things that the men are most in need of) and clothes, especially changes of underclothing, will be forwarded to the men. This new branch the Depot’s labours will, it can safely said, appeal to a very large circle of sympathisers with Exeter’s work for the troops. A special fund has already been started to meet the expenses.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Tuesday 22 June 1915

See story for 19th June above
WAR BONUSES.

By a narrow majority, the Exeter City Council last evening rejected a committee recommendation that a war bonus be granted to employees receiving under a certain wage. The aggregate amount, it was computed, would mean about £2,500 per annum, or a 2½d rate, Heavitree being excluded from the burden through the operation of its preferential rate. As the voting expressed, there was a sharp division of opinion in regard to the principle involved—that is, the justice or otherwise of giving to the employees of a public authority something which would be denied to the general body of workers, and to which the latter would have to contribute their quota. Now, a member of the Exeter Council asked if employers who supported the recommendation in question were themselves paying a war bonus? This is a pertinent point. If employer members of public bodies are not paying a war bonus, it is surely inconsistent to ask the ratepayers to do so. It may seem mean, or even hard, to refuse what other public bodies have granted; yet it is only fair to remember that everybody has been hit by the increased cost of living. Very many people have had their income reduced by 50 per cent, as result of the war, and some even more; and while this is the case, they are being called upon to pay an extra rate for the purpose of providing war bonuses. No one knows how long the war is going to last, and the longer it continues, the less the ability of the ratepayers must be to meet the demands upon them. This war bonus question is therefore one which should be examined carefully from the point of view of the community as well as the parties who would immediately benefit. It is all very well to say that the bonus could be withdrawn should circumstances alter. There is, however, an old saying which has a close application. This is: "It is not easy to take butter from a dog's mouth."
Western Times - Wednesday 23 June 1915

Notes of the Day

I am glad to learn that the"local" work which is to be done in connection with the restoration of the Cathedral with the restoration of the cracked treble bell at Exeter Cathedral does not include the hanging and adjusting ultimately of the recast member of the peal. The firm which will recast will also hang the treble in its place. The term “local” refers to some incidental work which does not require the attention of bell hanging experts. The information will be appreciated by the citizens generally as indicating the resolve of the Dean and Chapter to have the peal as perfect as possible, and by those who have to ring the bells that their labour is to be made as light as the application of science and experience can render it. The bells of the Cathedral are now so heavy that it would be impossible to use them satisfactorily unless they were hung to a nicety. All arenas agree that the Dean and Chapter have done their part in ensuring this, and that the only things needed in addition are skill, experience, and regular practice on the part of the ringers themselves. Without these qualities it is difficult to get the best results.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Thursday 24 June 1915

OUR LETTER BOX
THANKS.

To the Editor of the "Western Times."
Sir,—Will you permit me, through your columns, to express heartiest thanks to all who lent motor-cars, assisted at the entertainment, or otherwise helped to make the excursion of our wounded soldiers to Torquay such a magnificent success yesterday. The Mayor and Mayoress of Torquay, also, the Pavilion staff, and, indeed, everybody who could lend a hand did so, and we are grateful.
Above all, I desire, on behalf of the soldiers, and of the City of Exeter, to thank Mr. Plummer, whose generosity conceived the treat, and made it possible. This is but one of a long series of patriotic acts of his that has laid us under a deep obligation, which I am glad to acknowledge.
Yours truly,
JAMES G. OWEN, Mayor.
Guildhall. Exeter. June 22nd. 1915.
Western Times - Thursday 24 June 1915

EXETER'S MAYORESS APPEALS FOR SANDBAGS.

To the Editor of the "Western Times."
Sir,—A considerable number of sandbags has been sent in to our Depot, and forwarded to the Devon Regiments at the front. Obviously there must be great wastage the material, and I understand that we cannot send too many sandbags out. Will the friends in the West, who have so splendidly supported us ever since the war started, now turn their attention to the production of sandbags, I should like to forward to the Commanding Officers of the 1st and 2nd Devons much larger quantities than have been available hitherto? The material may be Hessian or barras, the stout coarse material from which working aprons are made. Any draper's shop would have patterns. The bags when finished should measure two and a half feet in length, and one foot across, the seams either doubly stitched, or felled, with strong thread or fine twine, and a piece of string should be firmly sewn, about two or three inches from the top, to tie round the mouth of the bag. Yours very truly,
J. KIRK G. OWEN, Mayoress.
Guildhall, Exeter,
23rd June. 1915.
Western Times - Thursday 24 June 1915

SANDBAGS
Millions Wanted, but They Must be the Right Kind
DO TRENCH WORK HOME

It is doubtful whether anyone, not actually in the field, realises what the word sandbag means to the soldier in the firing line, or how urgently millions, and yet more millions of sandbags are needed, to stem the casualty lists.
The mother of a Captain, Royal Field Artillery, writes: “I have sent my son 350 sandbags. He is delighted with them, and says his observation post has been safe for the first time since the last shift. He talks about the shortage.''
The wife of an officer in the R.F.A. writes that her husband has asked her to make an urgent appeal on his behalf for sandbags, because the artillery are almost more in need of sandbags than the infantry, for they have the huge guns to cover as well, and the men are not dug in "to the extent that the men in the trenches are."
An infantry lieutenant writes: "We want a tremendous lot of sandbags. Our Division alone has been using a million a month. Our Battalion require about 2,000 a day for their present trenches, but we have not been able to get them in sufficient quantities lately. If you saw a shell burst on a parapet with sandbags, and on one without, you would soon see how many lives they save; and if it is to be a war of attrition, we want to take every possible means of avoiding the loss of men in the trenches."
With a million men in the field, ten million sandbags will only mean ten bags per man and new bags are needed as fast as they move. The supply required is endless.
Sandbags are used like bricks for building purposes, and are laid alternate ways in order to bind. The length of a sandbag must be twice its width with five inches extra (to allow for tying up when filled, without destroying its proportions). Some bags are splendidly sewn, but have insufficient turnings. When tested, the few threads beyond the stitching ravel out, and the whole side, or end, rips open. The soldier's life depends on the integrity of the sandbag sent to him, so do not betray him by sending him bags wrongly made…
…They must have 1in. turnings, and must be strongly made.
The Mayoress's Depot at Exeter is open to receive any amount of sandbags, and they should be sent in without delay.
Western Times - Tuesday 29 June 1915

MUNITIONS VOLUNTEERS
Satisfactory Response by Exeter Workers

The Munition Workers,' Bureau at the Guildhall has been open for three evenings, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and again Sunday afternoon, and it would appear that over a hundred men have registered themselves as willing to go anywhere to assist the Government in the making of munitions of war. The response so far has been principally from the engineering trades, especially brass workers. No man is enrolled unless he is already in employment, and he must be a bona fide skilled workman. Unemployed artisans should apply at the Labour Exchange in North-street in the ordinary way. At the Guildhall there are with the officials of the Labour Exchange, who are doing the work of the registration under direction of Mr. W. H. Thomas, the acting manager (who has been appointed in charge of the Munition Bureau), several officials of the local branches of the Trades Unions. These representatives are present to advise workers and to assist in the administration of the Bureau.
All the men who register are guaranteed the rate of wages paid in whatever district they might be sent to, and it is not to be less than the rate in the district in which they have hitherto been working. They also get their railway fare and 2s. 6d. a day as subsistence money in addition to their pay, when unable to go to and from their work.
Directly a man registers a form is sent to his employer, who, if the man happens to be already engaged on Government work, can apply for his retention. There is, however, very little war work being done in Exeter so far. One firm, we understand, has a sub-contract for the making of parts of shells.
Up to yesterday morning none of the registered men at Exeter had been transferred, but it is understood that the Munition Works' Office at Whitehall was likely send out a call for men during the day. Whether any of the Exeter men will be transferred remains to be seen.
The Bureau at the Guildhall will open every evening this week. Any workman who is in doubt as to whether his services are of the nature required should make an application at the Guildhall at once.
Western Times - Tuesday 29 June 1915

May 1915

Exeter Child Dies from Scalds

Thomas Lippett, aged three years, of No. 5, Bartholomew-street East, Exeter, was admitted into the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Thursday morning suffering from severe scalds, and died at the institution last evening at 7.10. It appears that the mother the Child had poured some boiling water into a pan for the purpose of washing dishes, when the deceased pulled over the pan, with the result that the boiling water went over him. An inquest will held to-day.
Western Times - Saturday 01 May 1915

EXETER HOSPITALITY.

One thousand six hundred bags of refreshments and hot drinks were distributed among troops at Queen-street Station, Exeter, from Tuesday to Saturday of last week, by the Mayoress and lady helpers. Some the men were bound for scenes of action farther afield than Flanders, and the number who shared in the city's hospitality is further evidence of the good work accomplished by this fund. Saturday's subscriptions were Clothing and Emergency Fund: Miss Gamlen, Dawlish, £1; Mr. Edward Sawdye, 10s 6d; "for respirators only," 10s: Miss Grove, Littleham House, Exmouth, 5s; Miss S.. 5s; Miss Allin, Plymouth, 2s 6d; Mrs Lucy Gribble, Teignmouth, 2s 6d; Miss Bowen 2s; Miss Audrey E. Goad, Exeter, proceeds of making and selling Japonica, 2s. The last-named is the second sum little Miss Goad has brought the Depot, a result of her sale of Japonica.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Monday 03 May 1915

MR. HILAIRE BELLOC.
RETURN VISIT TO EXETER.

Devonians will welcome the announcement that Mr. Hilaire Belloc whose reputation as an authority on the progress and strategy of the war is well known, is to lecture on the subject at the Victoria Hall, Exeter, Friday after noon next. Messrs Paish and Co. are making the arrangements for the occasion, and tickets may be obtained from them at 3, Bedford-street, Exeter. Reduced prices are offered for parties H M. troops, schools, etc., on application. Mr. Belloc’s lecture on this occasion will be on "The Progress of the War and the Present Position.”
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Wednesday 05 May 1915

EXETER APPEAL. THE MAYORESS'S FUND.

Now that the encampment for the troops training at Exeter is almost ready for occupation, notice is being called to the several "wants' of the men. There are every-day necessities in an encampment of this sort which the Office do not make provision for, and representations have already been made on several small matters to the ladies of the Mayoress of Exeter's Depot, whose assistance is being enlisted. The Mayoress desires, at the earliest possible date, to provide swabs and dish-cloths for the encampment, these being, of course, quite an indispensable requirement. Will helpers, therefore, forward to the Depot a supply of swabs and dish-cloths? They can made with little trouble or bought at comparatively small cost; while, if subscribers desire any money they forward to the Mayoress's funds be set aside for this purpose they should kindly notify the fact in their accompanying letters.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Wednesday 05 May 1915

EXETER HIPPODROME.
NEXT WEEK'S BILL.

Another good all-round programme has been arranged for next week at the Exeter Hippodrome. The "top-liners" are Robins and Collier in "a scrambled concoction,” entitled "Miss Bacon's Easter Egg." There is not a dull minute from beginning to end of the turn, which will be found an entertainment in itself. The Eldons, who celebrated comedy equilibrists, are another star turn which is sure to be appreciated. Elsie Robey will give burlesque impressions; Jaffa will present comedy conjuring; Korah will appear with his two champion dancing boys; while Walker, the burlesque comedian, completes a good list. The bioscope will depict the latest war news and other attractive films, while "stores" night will take place, as usual, at both performances on Friday. Patrons can anticipate throughout the week a merry and bright entertainment.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Saturday 08 May 1915

EXETER JUVENILES.
THEFT & WINDOW SMASHING.

At Exeter Children's Court, yesterday, an eleven-year-old boy, of Cornish's-court, who was remanded from the previous Monday in order that the police doctor might see the boy were strong enough to an Industrial School, again appeared on a charge of stealing four farthings and two bars of chocolate, value 6d, the property Mary West, the 2nd inst. The Chief-Constable said the doctor had certified the boy fit for Industrial School. The Bench, after hearing the main facts, decided, in view of the offence being the first committed by the boy, to give him six strokes of the birch.
Two boys, aged 11 and 10, Stepcote-hill and Commercial-road, were also ordered six strokes the birch for damaging 21 panes of glass by stone-throwing, two windows, in a store in the property of Messrs. Huxham and Brown, on the 30th April. Both boys had previously appeared before the Court.
A fourteen-year-old boy, of Longbrook street, was charged with, during the past three months, embezzling from his employer, Thomas John Goodridge, 2s 7½d and 1s 4d, and with stealing, on the 30th April, 3s 6d, the property of Caroline Wreford. Accused pleaded guilty to the first two charges (2s 7½d and 1s 4d), but denied having committed the third, which the Chief-Constable said he could prove, but, with 6 sanction the Bench, withdrew it. The Chief-constable said the boy had been in Mr. Goodridge’s employ since February 1st to deliver milk and receive money. He had to deliver on five days a week a halfpenny worth of milk to one customer, who agreed pay 2½d every week. The boy, when questioned, said he had had the money at first but afterwards admitted it. This had gone for nearly three months. Detective-Sergt. Walters gave the a boy a good character, and he was bound over fox 12 months in 20s.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Tuesday 11 May 1915

More Wounded Arrive at Exeter.

A considerable number of wounded from the Front arrived at Queen-street Station. Exeter, shortly before eight o'clock last night. They were all taken to the new V.A.D. Hospital which has been fixed up at the Exeter University College Hostel in Castle-street, and which is on every hand reported to have been most admirably adapted to the purpose it is now to serve. It is. in fact, said be one the very best of the temporary hospitals the district. The arrival of last night's contingent of wounded was watched by considerable crowds in Queen-street and Castle-street, especially at the entrance to Castle-street. The first lot of patients were brought in motor-cars and taxis from the Station, and were those least seriously hurt. They were able to sit up, and many them cheerfully acknowledged the greetings of onlookers, especially one young Tommy who leaned out of the window of a taxi and waved his left hand, the other being heavily bandaged. In fact, most of these first arrivals were suffering from wounds in the arms. Later on, the cot cases were brought in. Some were bad ones, and it was considerable time before the last was safely conducted to the Hostel.
Western Times - Saturday 15 May 1915

Notes of the Day.

The Exeter Magistrates on Saturday, when they dismissed summons against a local blacksmith for furiously riding a motor cycle in Sidwell-street, no doubt sympathised with the unfortunate man in the serious injuries sustained. The defendant was very lucky in not being killed. While proceeding up Paris-street he completely lost control of his six-horse power cycle, owing to a portion of the machinery becoming clogged. He proceeded into Sidwell-street at very furious rate. So fast was he going that a constable on duty shouted to people near at hand to get out of the way. The machine dashed against a grocer's shop on the opposite side of the road and the rider was thrown completely through the plate-glass window among the provisions. The man was severely cut about the head and body, and had to be conveyed to the hospital. At the Police-court he was hardly able to walk into the dock owing to lameness. He also had his left arm in a sling, while the expression on the face was evidence that he was still suffering great pain. Prosecuting a man after such an unenviable experience; certainly seems something like applying salt to his wounds.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Monday 17 May 1915

Collision at Exeter

A motor van and a market trap collided at the junction of Manston-terrace with Magdalen-road on Saturday. The occupants of the trap Mr. Wm. Coles and his daughter, of Countess Weir, were both thrown out, and the former sustained a nasty cut on one of his elbows, and had to be treated at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital. The injury is not serious. Miss Coles was able to seize the animal's head and prevent what was likely to be a serious smash.
Western Times - Monday 17 May 1915

Earlier Closing for Exeter Drapers on Saturdays

The annual meeting of the Exeter Traders and Early Closing Association was held on Monday at 17, Bedford Circus, Mr. C. J. Ross presiding. The report and balance sheet were passed. Although subscriptions were rather less the financial position was good, there being a balance £8 2s 9d. It was proposed and carried that £1 1s each should be given to the Mayoress's Hospitality Fund and to the V.A.D. per Miss Buller. The question of closing the drapers' shops on Saturday at 9p.m. was discussed, and efforts will be made to carry out this proposition.
Western Times - Wednesday 19 May 1915

EXETER HERO
Buried With Military Honours at Exwick Yesterday

The funeral took place at Exwick Cemetery yesterday of Private Arthur Tarr, of the 2nd Devons, who died at Netley Hospital last Thursday, as a result of a shrapnel wound in the head. Deceased's parents reside at 55, Oxford-street, St. Thomas, and Pte. Tarr was well-known and respected in that district. He joined the 2nd Devons about seven years ago, and was with his Battalion in Egypt when war broke out. His fatal wound was received during recent heavy fighting in Flanders. Deceased was with a party of nine other Devons when a shell fell in their midst, and killed eight on the spot. He was unharmed, and was attempting to move away when a piece of shrapnel hit him the head. He survived the passage across to England, but succumbed during last Thursday night at Netley, the body being conveyed to Exeter Saturday. It was met at the railway station by the V.A.D. motor ambulance, and taken in that to the parents' home. Mr. and Mrs. Tarr, it may be mentioned, have two other sons and two sons-in-law in the Army, and one of the latter is now a convalescent in Newcastle hospital.
Western Times - Wednesday 19 May 1915

GALLANT EXONIAN.
KILLED AT THE FRONT.

The greatest sympathy will be extended to Mr. and Mrs. Sambell, of Park Villa, Longbrook-street, Exeter, in the loss they have sustained in the deaths of their two sons, both whom were killed at the front within a month of each other. The first, to whom reference has already been made, was a member of the Canadian contingent. Now Mr. and Mrs, Sambell have received intimation that their other son, Sergeant Sambell, of the 5th Dragoon Guards, has been killed. Sergeant Sambell, who has been in the Army for about four years, was an excellent soldier. Prior to enlisting he served his apprenticeship with Messrs Plimsoll Clark, of Exeter. The news of his death was conveyed to the parents by his troop officer, who in the course of a letter he wrote them says: "The regiment came in for a terrible shelling in the trenches, and Sergt. Sambell was killed early on in the fight, but not before he had given fresh proof of his courage and coolness under fire He was conspicuously gallant keeping a close watch on the enemy while exposed to the heaviest fire, and was finally killed while assisting a wounded man to shelter . . . There certainly could not be a braver or more efficient soldier." The letter concludes with expressions of the deepest sympathy, both on account of Sergt, Sambell’s death and of his brother.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Thursday 20 May 1915

News of the West.

Shortly after three o'clock on Saturday a motor car ran into a tram on the hill in Fore street, Exeter The accident happened just opposite W. Weale and Co's premises. The car was being driven by Thomas Dawe of Sticklepath, and belongs to Messrs Day and Sons, Okehampton. It had three steel-studded tyres, and it thought that this was of its suddenly skidding on the tram setts. It swerved right across the track and ran almost end-on into train No. 25 being driven by Chief-driver Nicholls. Dawe was thrown out. and was badly shaken sustaining a broken rib. He was taken to the premises of Messrs Veale and attended to and meanwhile another car was telegraphed for from Okehampton to fetch him. Three ladies were with him at the time of the accident, and one was thrown out of the car, but fortunately she was not injured. The driver of the tram was blameless in the matter.
Western Times - Tuesday 25 May 1915

PATHETIC STORY
Sequel to the Death of Recluses at Exeter
HEIRS LOST IN 'LUSITANIA'

The death of Mr. and Mrs. Mainman, the recluses, who, it will be remembered, died practically of starvation at their residence in Mount Radford, Exeter, a short time ago, leaving in the house something like £2,000 in cash, has had a pathetic sequel, the son and his wife and two of the five children having lost their lives in the " Lusitania disaster.
At the time of Mr. and Mrs. Mainmain's death, the only son, Mr. Alfred Mainman was in Alberta, Canada, where he had been settled for some years. He had paid periodical visits to his parents at Exeter, and had, while in Canada, kept up a regular correspondence with them. Although he knew they were very frugal, be had no idea that they were depriving themselves of necessaries, and he was greatly shocked when he learnt the sad news of their death.
Old Mr. Mainman had a few years before his death made a will, in which he left all his estate to his wife for her life-time, and willed that it should then go to his only son. The will was drawn up by Mr. Norrington, solicitor, who was in practice in Exeter at the time, but who is now an officer in the Army, stationed at Hong Kong. He was also appointed the executor, but before leaving Exeter, a few years ago, left word with his friends that if anything happened to Mr. Mainman, they should send at once for Mr. Linford Brown, the solicitor, who is in practice with his father in Castlestreet. In this way Mr. Brown became, on the death of Mr. and Mrs. Mainman, the acting executor. The money found in the house —,£1,OOO by the nurses, who were engaged to look after Mr. and Mrs. Mainman during the last few hours, and £1,000 found by others —was placed in the bank, where it still remains.
Mr. Brown immediately communicated with Air. Alfred Mainman in Alberta, who, with his wife and five children, decided at once to come to Exeter. Unhappily, they sailed in the ill-fated "Lusitania," which was sunk by a German submarine off the Irish coast. The father and mother and the two eldest sons, aged respectively, 22 and 19, were drowned. Three of the children, viz., daughter, aged about 15, and twins, aged seven, were saved, and landed at Queenstown. Since then the body of the eldest son has been recovered, and identified by the sister.
On Monday Mr. Linford Brown returned to Exeter from Liverpool, where he has been making temporary arrangements for the care of the surviving children. They are being looked after, for the moment, pending some permanent arrangement, by kindly-hearted strangers who happened to acquainted with some the friends of the family, and who, when written to, at once went down to the docks and took charge of the children directly they landed from Queenstown. At the latter place they also received kindly treatment from a local family. The watch, letters, and other belongings found on the body of the eldest son were handed over to Mr. Brown. According to several accounts by eye witnesses, the conduct of the fifteen-year-old daughter who was saved was remarkable for her cool resourcefulness and bravery. She saved the two youngest children by throwing them into boat, and also rescued another young child who had become separated from its parents
The estate will of course, have now to be administered through the Courts for the maintenance and education of the three children. It is in cases like this in which the estate duties which have to paid press severely. In consequence of three successive deaths in so short a time, they fall extremely heavy; so heavy, in fact, as may reduce the capital to an amount which will barely yield sufficient interest to ensure the upbringing of the surviving children that standard of comfort to which they have been accustomed. In many ways the case is one of the most pathetic that has ever come under public notice.
Western Times - Wednesday 26 May 1915

Satisfactory Result of Smart Set Concert at Topsham

The Exeter entertainers composing the 'Smart Set" troupe are to congratulated upon the satisfactory results of their concert this week at Topsham in aid of the Topsham V.A.D. Hospital. A crowded attendance was attracted by their reputation to St. Margaret's Hall, and Miss Nina Coats, manageress of the Smart Set, has now handed over to the Hospital profit of £5 10s. 6d. On the whole, the concert was one of the best the Exeter amateurs in question have yet given, and encores were frequently responded to with pleasing song and dance. Dr. Ashford, who was present with the local V.A.D. staff, congratulated the artistes during the interval in the course of a short speech, and, on behalf of members of the audience, presented bouquets to the six young ladies composing the Smart Set. Very much appreciated additions to the programme were songs and an amusing skirt dance by wounded soldiers from the Topsham Hospital, who thus brought into play once more Tommy's unlimited resources.
Western Times - Saturday 29 May 1915

"Jimmy" Cock Still Active

We are pleased to able to contradict the rumour, freely circulated in the City last week, that Lance-Cpl. J. H. Cook had been knocked over at the Front. Cook will be remembered formerly one of Exeter Rugby Football Club's wing threequarters, who threw in his lot with the Northern Union. As a true sport, he volunteered for the Front at the very beginning of the war, enlisting the King's Royal Rifles on the 7th of August, and has been in France since November 22nd. In a recent letter to " Half-Back." Lance-Corpl. Cook narrated his many exciting experiences 'midst shot and shell, together with another Exonian named Harry Ville, At Givenchy, particularly, he had a lively time, but came through unscathed. Lance-Corpl. Cook's father received a communication from his son on Saturday saying was all right.
Western Times - Monday 31 May 1915

April 1915

EXETER POLICE COURT
Tiverton Clergyman's First Effort as Chauffeur

The Rev. R. Callender, of Templeton Rectory, Tiverton, who appeared at Exeter Police Court, before the Mayor (Mr. J. G. Owen) and Mr. J. Stokes, on Thursday, in answer to a summons for having on the 22nd March, (having) driven a motor car into the London Inn Square from St. Sidwell's on the wrong side, pleaded that he was a beginner at motor driving, and that he made the mistake innocently.—P.O. Harris told the Bench that he signalled to defendant, who drove down Sidwell-street on the wrong side, as well as entered the London Inn Square on the wrong side. He afterwards said to witness that it was his fault, and that should take his number and report him.—Mr. Callender said he did not recollect saying anything about reporting the constable. His reason in taking his number was that understood this was required if an accident arose.—The Mayor: No doubt you were a little flurried.—Mr. Callender : Yes, I was. It was my first attempt at driving.—The Bench called the defendant to pay the costs.
Western Times - Tuesday 03 April 1915

Exeter Easter

Easter Day at Exeter was very fine and sunny, and the meteorological conditions gave the greatest pleasure of all. From early morning the bells in various steeples rang forth, the message of the Resurrection morn and called Churchpeople to their religious duties. We have missed the hot cross buns this year, and few people will be sorry that the dawn of Good Friday was not made hideous, by the raucous tones of the lads who in the past have been responsible for informing the citizens that hot cross buns were obtainable hours before anyone required them. But the Easter eggs have been evident, as have Easter cakes and gingerbread. Cakes seem intimately associated with Eastertide, but the gingerbread is rather more than an accompaniment to Easter Fair than with any observations of the Church. It is interesting to recollect that Easter holidays have existed for many years, for, by law concerning holidays made in the time of Alfred the Great, it was appointed that the week after should be kept holy.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Monday 05 April 1915

Exeter's War Workers

This week's “Lady’s Pictorial" is full of topical pictures and letterpress of quite exceptional interest, and the West-country will note with special satisfaction that one of its leading contents is an illustrated article devoted to the national work which Exonians, and others all over the County, are doing in this time of their country's need. Under the title of ”Exeter's War Workers," this feature, which occupies a whole page, describes the numerous war activities undertaken by the ladies of the city, and one of its pictures shows the Mayoress and her helpers at the Mayoress's Depot sorting and packing the garments, etc., which West-country folk, both at home and abroad, are constantly contributing for the comfort of West of England troops and sailormen. "Woman and the Farm," illustrated with photographs of women sheep-shearing, ploughing, and lead-farm horses, is another, item in the "Lady's Pictorial" which will appeal to readers in the centre of an agricultural district like this. A notable article by Viscountess Wolseley, on “The national food supply and women's vegetable gardens," contains, too, a couple of sentences that will give those who recognise the importance of the agricultural problem matter for serious thought. "In Belgium," Lady Wolseley writes, "by means of intensive cultivation a man is able to keep himself and family upon one acre, and to become rich if he possesses two or three acres. Why are many more Englishmen and Englishwomen not getting one acre of land to yield in one year 32,400 head lettuce and 16,200 head of celery, which, according to the figures shown at the Liege Horticultural College, yielded together £130?
Western Times - Friday 09 April 1915

War Vegetables

The depot of the Exeter Branch of the Vegetable Products Committee for sending fruit and vegetables, etc., to the Fleet has been removed from Northernhay-street to 10 queen-street.
Western Times - Saturday 10 April 1915

ST. THOMAS POST OFFICE.

A letter was read from the Postmaster of Exeter stating that a proposal to close the St. Thomas Town Sub-Office at 1 p.m. on Wednesdays was now receiving the consideration of the Postmaster-General. Before proceeding with the matter it was desired to know whether the City Council would have any objection to the concession being granted, —On the motion of Mr. Stocker, the Council decided to no offer objection.
Western Times - Wednesday 14 April 1915

COUNCIL WORKMEN AND WAR BONUS.

The National Union of Corporation Workers having requested the Council to grant an increase in pay or a war bonus to the Council workmen, as had been done by some authorities, the Finance Committee reported that the conditions of the districts referred to differed from those prevailing in Exeter and the same need for increase pay did not arise here.
Mr Townsend, Chairman of the Committee, said a letter had been received from the Exeter Trades and Labour Council supporting the application of the Corporation workers for the grant of a war bonus to enable them to meet the increased cost of living, but the Committee considered that as a Special Committee had quite recently reported on the subject of the wages of the Corporation employees they felt they could not do anything more at present.
Mr. P. Gayton asked in what respects Exeter differed from the twenty or more districts referred to?
Mr. Townsend said most of the places were mining or engineering and manufacturing districts, where the cost of living was undoubtedly greater than Exeter, and where the conditions were not at all on similar lines.
Western Times - Wednesday 14 April 1915

CITY ARMS FOR CABS.

On the consideration of the Market and General Purposes Committee, Mr. Stocker asked whether the Committee, before deciding to recommend that cabs should bear a stencil about three inches square with the City Arms, conferred with the licensed owners ?
Mr. McGahey, Chairman of the Committee, replied that the Committee had not conferred with them. He added that there would be no disfigurement to the cab. It would not come into operation before the next inspection, and the Committee would be prepared to consider any suggestion from the licensed owners.
Mr. Stocker said there was an objection by cab proprietors to the proposal. They often let out their vehicles as landaus to people who had a driver in livery, and who liked to believe they were riding in their own carriages. But it would rather "take it out of them” if the vehicles bore the City Arms. Some people, too, might object to the white badge on carriages which were used for funerals. The suggestion of the Chairman of the Committee that time was to be given to receive suggestions was satisfactory.
Western Times - Wednesday 14 April 1915

SALMON FISHING RIGHTS IN THE EXE.

Mr. Browning asked why the salmon fishing in that part of the Exe which belonged the Council was limited to four rods held by two members of the Exe Board of Conservators ?
The Mayor replied that that that was a matter for the Exe Board of Conservators to whom the Council leased their rights. The question should be submitted to the Conservators.
Mr. Browning remarked that three of the Conservators were members of the Council.
Mr. Varwell reminded Mr. Browning that he would have an opportunity of reviewing the matter three years hence —(laughter).
The Mayor: And the war will be overby that time—(laughter).
Western Times - Wednesday 14 April 1915

MOTOR CYCLE FOR THE POLICE.

Mr. Lisle, in moving the adoption of the Watch Committee's report, mentioned that the Committee had favourably considered the application of the Chief Constable to provide the police with a motor cycle. The Chief Constable submitted particulars of a machine which could bought for £37, but the Committee recommended that a machine be purchased subject to the Chief Constable taking competent advice. Since then it had been thought desirable to purchase a Sunbeam, of last year's pattern, practically new, having been run not more than 400 miles, which had been offered by Wippell Bros, and Row for £43 10s, its original price having been £61 10s. After a good deal of discussion, which Messrs. Chick, Tapley, Algar, Depree and Hamlin took part, the Council adopted the recommendation of the Committee that the machine be purchased, and it was also decided, on the motion of Mr. T. Bradley Rowe, seconded by Mr . Stokes, to refer back to the Committee for further consideration the question of purchase and price, the Committee being empowered to act.
Western Times - Wednesday 14 April 1915

EXETER BOY DROWNED
Constable's Plucky Attempts at Rescue

The Basin, at Exeter, was the scene of tragedy last evening. Between six and seven o'clock several boys were playing on a barge which was moored near the Gasworks. P.C. Blackmore appeared suddenly on the Haven Banks, on the other side of the Basin, and the youngsters at once commenced to make off. One of them. Albert Edward Thomas, aged eleven, son of a well-known resident of Smythen-street, in jumping fell into the water between the barge and the bank.
The constable, who heard the splash, ran down the banks, crossed the locks, and quickly reached the spot. The boy had disappeared. Merely throwing off his helmet, P.C. Blackmore jumped into the water from the bank, which is several feet high, and dived under the barge, where, evidently through suction, the lad had been drawn. The constable touched the lad's head with one of his hands, but failed get a hold of him. He was obliged to rise the surface, but having gained breath, he dived again. This time, however, he failed to find the lad.
Much exhausted by the weight of his uniform, Blackmore had to be assisted out of the water. The life-saving pole and the grappling irons kept near the spot were quickly fetched, and after about twenty minutes' search the body was recovered near the spot where the lad fell in, by Frank Kelland. All efforts at resuscitation were of no avail, and the body was conveyed to the mortuary, where it awaits an inquest.
Great praise was bestowed on P.C. Blackmore for the courageous efforts he made to effect a rescue. The death of the unfortunate lad is peculiarly pathetic, inasmuch as one brother has just lost his life at the Front, and another brother is among the wounded. The father to whom great sympathy will be extended, is well known in the city, and a familiar figure at local football! matches.
Western Times - Saturday 17 April 1915

Girl's Thefts at Exeter

A charge of theft from a milliner's establishment in Exeter, where she was employed, was heard before Messrs. P. Kelland (in the chair), H. B. Varwell, J. Stokes, E. C. Rowe and H. Hall at the City Juvenile Court yesterday. Defendant was a girl of fourteen and a half, and was charged with stealing a quantity of hat trimming, value £3 5s 4d, the property of Mrs. Pownding, trading as Mashford, milliner, of Queen-street. It was explained by the police that some five weeks ago the girl went to work for Mrs. Pownding. Three weeks later she was found opening some drawers in the show-room, which she had no right to touch. Mrs. Pownding was suspicious, and cautioned the girl. Last Saturday she found in her handbag a quantity of silk and tulle, and subsequently discovered in her pocket some ribbons, etc. She consequently called the police, who discovered various other articles in drawer at the girl's home. Detective-Sergt. Hill said defendant was a native of Oxford, and was educated at Torquay. The mother knew the girl had brought home some the things, but said she thought the girl's employer would discharge her if she made her take them back. The magistrates put the girl under probation for twelve months, the father to be bound over in the sum of 40s. They cautioned the mother, and said they almost thought she should have been in the girl's place. She should have found out about the property.
Western Times - Tuesday 20 April 1915

EXETER PALACE. AN EXCELLENT PROGRAMME.

As a recorder of incidents with the war, of humorous episodes and of the general scenes of the times, the cinematograph probably to-day has but few equals. Undoubtedly, that is the reason why so many people flock to the City Palace. Fore-street, Exeter, every afternoon and evening of the week. Patrons of this popular and artistic home of bright and beautiful pictures are provided, for the first three days of the present week, with an excellent and varied programme. The bill of fare is headed by a splendid Edison drama, entitled “The Everlasting Triangle." This film is indeed, a striking production, being superbly acted throughout. A magnificent coloured drama of four parts ''Marguerite of Navarre,” picture which should not fail to please all tastes, being, as it is, a spool of absorbing interest and full of sensational incidents. Pathes Animated Gazette depicts all up-to-date happenings, both in this country and on the field where the sons of Empire are fighting to uphold a righteous cause. A rattling Keystone comic is to be found in “His New Profession." Another strong programme has been secured for the latter half of the week.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Tuesday 20 April 1915

Whiskey in an Exeter Visitor's Legs

An elderly tramp named Samuel Francis, who claimed to be a native of Topsham, pleaded guilty at the Exeter Police Court yesterday to being drunk and disorderly in Edmund-street on Saturday. A constable saw him enter two inns and get ejected. Defendant, who said he had been saving up to buy a pedlar's certificate, was fined 2s 6d.— George Cooper, labourer, was charged with being drunk and incapable in Smythen-street on Saturday. A constable told the Bench he found Cooper on his hands and knees. Defendant said he left work to spend two days' holiday in Exeter, and the whiskey he had in a train he was coming down got in his legs. The magistrates fined him 5s. and told him he was silly to waste his time and money on drunken sprees.
Western Times - Tuesday 20 April 1915

THE EXETER WATCH COMMITTEE
Investigates Charges Against a Police-Sergeant
COMPLETE EXONERATION

At a special meeting of the Exeter Watch Committee at the Guildhall, Councillor Lisle (Chairman) presiding; also present the Right Worshipful the Mayor, Aldermen Campion and Peters, Councillors Challice, Gayton, Hoult, Mansfield, Munro, Pasmore, Priston, Towill, H. C. Rowe, the Town Clerk, and the Chief Constable.
The Chairman stated that this meeting had been summoned to investigate certain charges against Police Sergeant Wreford that had been made during the hearing of a case brought before Exeter Justices on the 9th instant. The alleged offence was being found drunk on licensed premises, and in the course of the hearing the solicitor for the defendant made the following statement: "It was a peculiar fact that of all the licensed victuallers brought to this Court, nearly 80 or 90 per cent, were brought by P.S. Wreford. This particular case was absolutely a made-up one." After hearing the evidence on both sides, the Bench stated that in the face of the conflict of evidence no conviction could be recorded, and the case was dismissed. They added that they did not doubt the honesty of the police in the case.
Notwithstanding this finding of the Justices, it was felt that the Watch Committee could not pass over charges of so serious a character without making their own investigations. The Town Clerk reported that he had had conversation with the solicitor for the defendant, who had given him every information and the fullest explanations in the matter. He was invited to attend the meeting of the Committee, but he stated that it appeared to him the findings of the Bench concluded the matter; that he was concerned merely as an advocate, and had no desire to carry the case further.
The Chief Constable stated that the number of cases brought against licensed victuallers during the last five years was twenty-three, and P.S. Wreford had been concerned in five of these. Since the outbreak of the war, P.S. Wreford had been specially detailed for the visitation of licensed premises, and had been concerned in three of the six cases brought within the last twelve months. In three of the five cases which he was concerned a conviction was recorded, and in the other two the opinion was expressed by the Bench that the informations were amply justified. The Chief Constable also reported that no case was taken into Court except upon his instructions after careful consideration of the evidence.
The Committee resolved that this Committee, having investigated the allegations made against P S. Wreford in regard to prosecutions affecting licensed victuallers, find that the facts now laid before the Committee entirely negate the statement that of all the licensed victuallers brought to the Court nearly eighty or ninety per cent, were brought by P.S. Wreford, nor do the facts convey any suggestion that P.S. Wreford exceeds his duty in regard to such prosecutions; that this Committee are also of the opinion that P.S. Wreford was merely discharging his duty in bringing forward the particular case in question, and acted throughout in good faith.
Western Times - Saturday 24 April 1915

Prosecutions at Exeter in Respect of Heavy Locomotives

Three summonses were heard the Exeter Police Court, on Saturday, of considerable importance to firms using locomotives which draw two or more trucks in the City area.
William James White, engine driver, of Cowick-street. Exeter, was summoned for driving a locomotive on Exe Bridge without having paid the required fee, on April 8th, and again in Alphington-street, on April 10th.
The Chief Constable pointed out to the Magistrates (Dr. Vlieland, in the chair, Mr. H. J. Munro and Mr. P. Kelland), that a light locomotive, when drawing two or more trucks, required heavy locomotive registration. White was seen by P.C. Gregory, on April 8th, driving a light locomotive, called “The Queen of Devon," over Exe Bridge, drawing trucks, and when he was asked if he had a permit, he admitted he had not. The circumstances were identical in the second case.
A fine of 20s. was inflicted on the first summons, and the second was thereupon withdrawn by the Chief Constable, who remarked that perhaps the defendant acted in ignorance but this was not an isolated case, and there might be further prosecutions. A heavy motor car license was £2, and a heavy locomotive license was £10. In this case, the vehicle was only registered as a heavy motor car, and it would thus be seen that in such instances there was a considerable loss to the City revenue.
William Frampton, engine driver for Messrs. Anderton and Rowlands, Stonehouse, was summoned for a similar offence on April 12th, in Alphington-street.
In this case, P.C. Gregory said that Frampton was driving a traction engine with the letters “0.H.M.S.,” and drawing three empty wagons. When asked if he had a permit, his reply was that he didn't need one, he was on His Majesty's service. Gregory, however, informed him he would be reported.
The Chief remarked that during the past two months or so, several locomotives had used the City's highways, and because their engines bore the letters "O.H.MS the drivers thought this fact released them from the necessity of getting permits. Some of the constables in the Force were also under that impression, and allowed them to pass. The letters, however, did not release them as was clearly shown in regulations forwarded by the War Office. The fine was 20s. as in the other case.
Western Times - Monday 26 April 1915

THE "QUEEN OF THE EXE."

Capt. Garnsworthy had another matter of urgency to bring forward. It had reference to the Council's tug, the "Queen the Exe." The trade of the port, he said, was not very large at present, and the tug was doing little work. The Admiralty were looking for tugs of this description, and it was possible they would take it on hire. The Council could meanwhile make arrangements at Teignmouth for all the towing they required. He moved that the Navigation Committee be allowed to offer the tug to the Admiralty for hire or sale. Mr. T. Stokes seconded and the proposal was agreed to.
Western Times - Wednesday 28 April 1915

TRAM-SHED WORKMEN'S WAGES : DRIVERS' GLOVES

Mr. Loram called attention to the disgraceful condition of the tram-drivers' gloves, and the matter was referred to the Committee.
In answer to Mr. Gayton, Mr. Varwell said although the application by the workmen in the shed for increased wages had been referred to the Finance and Staff Subcommittee, the matter would be considered between now and the next meeting of the full Committee. The application would be treated sympathetically.
Western Times - Wednesday 28 April 1915

WILL YOU HELP?

Every village in Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset has men in training. These men are moved from place to place and large numbers of them pass through Exeter. The Military Authorities do not provide meals during the journey, an the men are often hours without food. Here the value of the Mayoress Exeter's Depot is seen. When troop trains stop at Exeter substantial refreshments are provided. Over 30,000 bags food have been supplied, and each bag costs sixpence. Money is always wanted. Will you help? It may be your boy who will get the next bag. Send postal order to
THE MAYORESS OF EXETER,
WAR COMFORTS DEPOT.
EXETER.
Western Times - Friday 30 April 1915

March 1915

Body Found in the Exe Last Evening

Last evening the body of an old man, aged about 60 years, believed to be that of Mr. Greenslade, who has been missing from his home at No. 18, Clinton-street, St. Thomas Exeter, since February 4th. was recovered from the river Exe near Trews Weir. The body was in an advanced state of decomposition, and up to 2 o'clock this morning had not been identified. The body lies at the Mortuary at Exeter Police Court, and the Coroner has been communicated with.
Western Times - Wednesday 03 March 1915

CITY MATTERS
Applications for increases of Salary Refused
DECREASE IN RATES

At the meeting of the Exeter City Council on Tuesday evening, the Finance Committee will report that they have considered applications for increases of salaries from officials in the Sanitary Department and in the Surveyor's Department. The applications from the Sanitary Office had been previously considered by the Sanitary Committee, who reported that they were unable, under the present abnormal circumstances, to recommend any increase. It was resolved that this Committee should not recommend any increase of salary in respect of the applications presented.
The Market and General Purposes Committee report that a number of test purchases of loaves have been made in order to ascertain if bakers and sellers of bread are complying with the requirement of the Bread Act. Several of the loaves purchased were not weighed at the time of sale, but it was pleasing to be able to report that no shortage of the recognised weight of bread in the city had been detected, and that in some instances the loaves were found to as much as 4½ per cent, in excess of the recognised weight.
Western Times - Saturday 06 March 1915

Council's Street Committee

The Town Clerk submitted to the same committee list of properties in Bartholomew-street and Paul-street, the purchase of which had been completed, but no sanction yet obtained for the borrowing of the purchase moneys. The total purchase price of the properties amounted to £6,902 8s, which included solicitors' and surveyors' costs and stamp duties.—It was resolved that application made to the Local Government Board to borrow £6,902 8s expended under the Exeter (Paul-street, etc.) Housing of the Working-Classes Order in the purchase of the properties.—It was also resolved that application should be made to borrow £350 13s expended in the purchase properties in Well-street, and the sum of £142 5s 11d for street works.
The Street Widening and Improvement Scheme Sub-Committee represented that their negotiations for the purchase of the properties at the top of Paul-street were at a standstill, awaiting the decision of the City Council in regard to the proposal for the setting back of the Queen-street frontage and the utilisation of the surplus land.—It was resolved that the Town Clerk should make arrangements for an early meeting of the joint committees charge of the matter. The City Surveyor is to be instructed to submit his proposals as to the area which might suitably be dealt with under a town planning scheme, with a view to an application to the Local Government Board for their authority to prepare a scheme for such area.
Western Times - Saturday 06 March 1915

Exeter Police to Employ an Airdale

The Watch Committee report to the Exeter City Council that the Chief Constable has presented an airedale terrier for the use of the Force as an experiment in the employment of dogs as aid to police.
Western Times - Saturday 06 March 1915

Unemployed girls

The appeal I made on Friday for the loan of five sewing machines for use in the Exeter workrooms for unemployed girls and young women has so far resulted in one machine being offered by a Heavitree lady. Thus four more are wanted and no doubt will be forthcoming in the next day or so.
Western Times - Monday 08 March 1915

Crimean drum for museum

With regard to the Russian drum which was brought home from the field of Alma after the Crimean war by Quartermaster Bourke, an Exonian, and has now been presented to the Depot by Mr. Sidney Cole, the suggestion is made that citizens should assist in permitting it to handed over to the Royal Albert Museum as an interesting relic. Subscriptions are therefore invited for the purpose. When a certain sum has been raised, the drum will be presented to the Museum, and the money, as Mr. Cole wished handed over to the Mayoress's funds. Already several letters have been received inquiring about the drum, which at present is on view in the window of the Depot.
Western Times - Monday 08 March 1915

Relief for Serbia

From the Serbian Legation, London, came on Saturday an acknowledgement of a case of woollens sent from the depot for the Serbian Relief Fund.
Western Times - Monday 08 March 1915

Thanks from the front

Miss Smith, of Magdalen-road, Exeter, has left at the Depot a letter she has received from the Front, thanking her for a football she sent out in a parcel which was recently despatched from the Depot. The letter shows how delighted our men are to receive football from home. The writer, a sergeant with the Devons, and an Exonian, says in the course of his note:—
"It gives me great pleasure to write thanking you for the acceptable present we received from you. The football nearly set the boys crazy with delight, as the majority of us had not seen one since we left home. fact, it put new life in us. and we are all now in the best spirits, and join in sending you their gratitude and best wishes."
Western Times - Monday 08 March 1915

Birch for Boy Thieves at Exeter

Further cases of theft against Exeter boys were heard before Messrs. P. Kelland and H. Ball at the City Children's Court yesterday morning. Two boys, aged twelve and nine respectively, pleaded guilty to stealing one shilling and a penny from the till of a shop in Oxford-street, St. Thomas. They were caught red-handed, one boy being seen with coppers in his hand, while the other said he had been told by the first boy to steal. They admitted trying get money from four other shops during the morning, but had failed. Both boys were before the Court a short time ago, concerned in the theft of a collecting box, and it was now stated that the elder boy, after being arrested and released, declined to go home. He lived with his grandfather and grandmother, and was out of control. This boy was sent to a reformatory for five years and was apparently quite unconcerned when the Justices announced their decision. The other boy was ordered six |strokes with the birch.
Two lads, aged about thirteen, both of whose fathers were at the Front, were sentenced to receive six strokes each for stealing three mangolds from a field at Wonford. The Chief Constable said that there had been repeated thefts and damage in the field in question, and defendants were put under probation some twelve months ago for stealing apples. While under probation, said Mr. Mundy, Superintendent to the Exeter Education Committee, they behaved very well indeed.
Western Times - Tuesday 09 March 1915

CITY PALACE.

The City Palace, Exeter, has again a splendid selection of pictures for the first half of this week. The star film, "The Swan Song," is a thrilling drama in two acts, the battle scene connected with it being of a most realistic character. Pathe’s Animated Gazette" again delights everyone. It depicts the Canadians second draft at drill, and the inspection of the Australians in England, showing what physically fit men our Colonies are loyally sending to the defence of the Motherland. The “Gazette'' also gives an illustration of the Australians in Egypt in training by the Pyramids. “The Rescue" and '"The Love of Pierre Lacrosse" are both very fine dramas. The comic side of the programme provided for by “A Coat’s Tale” and “She Married for Love," each of which is enough by itself to keep one merry and bright.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Tuesday 16 March 1915

Railway Accident at Exeter

Rumours were pretty freely circulated in the city yesterday that there had been a serious railway smash in the early hours of the morning on the G.W.R. line near the St. David's Station. There certainly had been a collision, but fortunately not nearly so serious as many people had been led to believe. It appears that about 3.45 a.m. yesterday a shunting engine of the old type was standing on the main line about a hundred yards from the Goods Department facing Cowley Bridge. Two light engines belonging to the L. and S.W.R. Company were on the line at the same time, with the intention, we understand, of being driven to Plymouth to bring back a troop train. These engines were coupled together. By some means' or other, however, they were not pulled up, and of course a collision occurred between the three engines. Luckily the two light engines were not travelling at any great speed, otherwise very serious damage would inevitably have been done. It was fortunate, too, that none of the engines had any carriages or trucks attached. The foremost of the two light engines was pretty badly knocked about, the front buffers being much bent. The hindmost of the two engines was also damaged. The rear of the shunting engine was badly smashed, the buffers and cab being bent altogether out of shape. The railroad sustained practically no damage, whilst the service was not disturbed by the collision to any appreciable extent. None of the men on the engines were in any way injured. The railway authorities do not regard the damage done as being very serious, although the three engines are now relegated back to the repairs department for the time being.
Western Times - Thursday 18 March 1915

Norman House, King Street

With regard to the 12th century house 27, King-street, the Town Clerk has reported to the Estates Committee that Mr. Sirr, Inspector to H.M. Department of Ancient Monuments and Historic Buildings, has visited the buildings and will report later on. A letter has also been received from Mr. A. R. Powys, secretary of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, stating that the Society can hardly believe that the repair of the building will cost £500. The Society would be willing to arrange with a professional member to make a detailed report explaining what works are necessary. The Estates Committee advise the acceptance of this offer.
Western Times - Saturday 20 March 1915

Young Exonian Killed at the Front

Information has been received as to the death of Pte. H. J. White, of Exeter, who, after being at the front for only a few days, was fatally wounded and passed away in No. 11 Hospital, Boulogne, Tuesday last. He enlisted in September, and after a course of training at Salisbury and Dawlish was drafted in November to La Havre, from whence he was sent to the Rawal Pindi Hospital for duty. Here he remained for about two weeks, when he was ordered for field service. Pte. White, whose parents live at Smythen-street, Exeter was only 21 years of age. He was an apprentice at Messrs. Squires and Son's brush works, and was not yet out of his time when he accepted the call of King and country. He was a good sportsman, and belonged to the St Sidwell Institute, for which he played Association football. Deep sympathy is expressed for his bereaved parents.
Western Times - Monday 22 March 1915

Absentees captured

George Wilks, Bert Cook, and Leonard Sutton, absentees from the 1st Battalion Worcester Regiment, stationed at Plymouth who were found in a train at St David’s Station that morning, were handed over to an escort.
Western Times - Tuesday 23 March 1915

LATE CAPTAIN SCOTT.

A letter was read from Mr. C. H. Brodie, an Exonian, stating that when the London Devonian Society gave the late Capt. Scott a complimentary dinner, just previous to his departure for the Antarctic, he was present, and obtained on his menu cards the signatures of Lady Scott, Lord Fortescue, and Capt. Scott himself. These he kept together with the circular announcing the list of guests present, and the "Daily Telegraph" report of the dinner. He had since had them bound in a memorial volume, and he asked the Council of the capital of the county in which Capt. Scott was born to accept the book so that it might be deposited in the public library or other suitable place, and kept there in memory of a brave man and his equally brave companions. A pleasing feature about the book was that when he told the binders—Messrs. Waterlow and Sons, Ltd.—of the proposed destination, they declined to make any charge whatever for the binding.
The Deputy-Mayor said the gift was peculiarly interesting, especially to a city like Exeter, which had so many interesting documents. It was a very valuable addition, and as time went its interest would increase. It was also a pleasant feature that Messrs. Waterlow should have so generously bound the book, for Lady Waterlow was an Exeter lady. He proposed that they accept the gift, with the Council’s hearty thanks to Mr. Brodie. The Council agreed.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Wednesday 24 March 1915

MOTOR AMBULANCE.

The St. John Ambulance Brigade wrote asking the Council to make a grant towards the provision of a motor ambulance. The Brigade and the Red Cross Association were working together with regard to the moving of sick and wounded soldiers, but it was impossible to deal adequately with the wounded trains by means of the Red Cross ambulance, and the horse vans which had to be employed caused suffering to the wounded. They had raised £150 towards the cost of the required ambulance, and they could secure a motor ambulance for £200. Thus they only wanted to raise £50.
The Deputy-Mayor asked whether the Council did not quite recently make two grants for the purpose.
The clerk stated that grants were made in 1910.
Mr. Stocker agreed that a motor ambulance was needed, but thought that as it was needed for national service its cost should be paid for by the War Office. He moved that the matter to be referred to the Finance Committee. t
Mr. Steele Perkins, who seconded, said there was already on foot a movement to provide two further ambulances for Voluntary Aid.
Mr. Rose insisted that facilities for the conveyance of the wounded to the hospitals were absolutely necessary. Both the John Ambulance and the V.A.O. were doing splendid work, and he hoped the matter would receive the serious attention of the Finance Committee.
Mr. Widgery said at present there was in existence in the city an ambulance which was available for any public body who needed it.
The matter was referred to the Finance Committee.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Wednesday 24 March 1915

Exeter Dispensary.—Report for the week ending March 20th: Remaining on the books last week, 363; admitted this week, 61—424; discharged, cured, 26; benefited, 44; died, 1; no return, 3–74; remaining books, 350.
Mr. E. A. Grenfell, Hon. Secretary of the Exeter Teachers' Belgian Relief Fund, has received a cheque for £7, being proceeds lectures on Home Nursing given by Mrs. Dean, wife of Professor Dean, University College, Exeter.
Western Times - Friday 26 March 1915

Salvation Army appeal

Adjutant Kate Lee, the officer in charge of the work of the Salvation Army in Exeter, wishes, through our columns, to thank all the friends who have generously responded to the appeal made in connection with the Self Denial effort; £184 has been raised, or, nearly £30 more than was raised for this fund last year. This is very gratifying, as addition to keeping many branches off its great work in operation, extra amount is required to go towards the expense of sending motor ambulances to the Front, as previously intimated, and in which the Mayor took such a practical interest by so kindly arranging a meeting in the Guildhall, which greatly helped the effort.
Western Times - Friday 26 March 1915

French lessons

Excellent work is being done by Mrs. J. Skeete, of Heavitree, in teaching French to soldiers billeted in Exeter. The classes are held at the United Services Institute, Castle-street, Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday in each week. In three months no less than 450 soldiers have given a good knowledge of the language, and the Army Council has written Mrs. Braithwaite Skeete in appreciative terms concerning the admirable work she is doing. Owing to indisposition, the classes were not held for a short time, but they have been resumed, and I hope the soldiers will attend in as large numbers as heretofore. It is rumoured that the Institute will shortly be used a military hospital. Whether this is so I cannot say, but should the building be required for the wounded, the classes will be conducted elsewhere.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Monday 29 March 1915

February 1915

Turn those lights out

I don't suppose there anyone who can say how Exeter looked from overhead Saturday night, but from neighbouring hillsides the reduction of public lighting, and particularly the disuse of the arc electric lamps, had a pronounced effect. To the native, familiar with his geography, the position of the city was still discernible, but nothing like so conspicuous as usual. I imagine that an enemy airman would make allowance for the things which are being done in regard to public lighting and make some pretty good guesses at the whereabouts of certain places. But the abandonment of powerful lights certainly lessons the risk. The only inconvenience from the reduced lighting seemed to be suffered by motorists and motor vehicles. But their inconvenience, which was confined to reduced speed, was viewed as a blessing in disguise by the average citizen. The tram cars were bothered by being unable to see each other at a distance, but that was mainly owing to fog.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Monday 01 February 1915

Vagrancy

War has a changing influence on many phases of daily life. But it would have appeared risky to prophesy, as one result, a reduction in the vagrants upon the roads. The working of the way-ticket system had, it was thought, narrowed the casuals to what might be regarded an irreducible minimum. But, strange to say, the returns relating to the numbers of vagrants accommodated at various Workhouses in Devon, and presented at a meetings of the Guardians, have recently disclosed a considerable decrease compared with the corresponding period of last year. The question arises: Does this decrease represent the number of men who have given up the nomadic life of a tramp for the ordered life of a soldier? One of the sad characteristics of English social life has been the presence on the road of a large number of men, physically fit, who toiled not, neither did they spin. They loafed from one town to another, not seeking work, but usually avoiding it, and fastening themselves upon, the offices of the Poor-law or the charity of the general public.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Monday 01 February 1915

Gramophone Given for Use of Troops in Exeter

On Thursday, the local Press published an appeal on behalf of the Mayoress of Exeter for a gramophone for the use of troops stationed at Exeter, a section of whom had asked for one for their opening entertainments. The appeal has quickly brought a response, for on Friday Mr. Percy Hawkins, of the Exeter Cycle Works, St Sidwell’s, forwarded a gramophone for the use of the troops in the city. It will be sent to the 3rd Devons, the regiment which made the application, for the time being. Mr. Hawkins has promised to provide a fresh record every week. The Mayoress would welcome an offer of further records so as to give the men a little stock to start with.
Western Times - Monday 01 February 1915

"VIKNOR" VICTIM.

Reginald Ernest Stanley Bryant, son of Mr. and Mrs. Albert James Bryant, of 11, Parr-street, Exeter, has lost his life through the sinking of the armed merchantman H.M.S. Yiknor. Young Bryant was a first-class boy of the ill-fated vessel, which, it will be remembered, was supposed to have either foundered in the gale or struck a mine off the Irish coast on January 11th. He was just over 17 years of age, and joined the Navy two years ago. When war broke out he was doing his boy service on the Edgar. He volunteered for active service, and was transferred to the Viknor. The lad was home shortly before Christmas, and spent five days with his friends. He formerly attended school at St. James's, and for a time was in the employ of Mr. Bonner, dairyman, of Old Tiverton road.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Tuesday 02 February 1915

FIRE AT EXETER

The Exeter Fire Brigade received a call to a fire at 9:35 last night from the Heavitree district station. The outbreak occurred at Homefield Lodge, which is occupied by about 50 men of G company the 3rd Special Reserve Battalion of the Devonshire Regiment. Shortly before 9.35 smoke was noticed in a bedroom containing 10 or 12 beds, and it was discovered that the floor timber had caught on fire and burnt through the floor, and also of the ceiling of the dining room underneath. The brigade, under Supt. Pett, soon put the fire out. The damage is about £50 or £60, four rooms being involved. Capt T. M. Snow arrived shortly after the outbreak, and took command of the soldiers.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Tuesday 02 February 1915

WHIPTON DEATH

An inquest has been held at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on George Henry Elliott, of Whipton, platelayer, who died at the institution on Monday. Deceased’s widow said her husband had worked for the L. & S. W. R. Company at Exmouth Junction for 16 years. Saturday, January 23rd he went to work as usual, and returned about 1.20. In the evening he complained of a pain in his thumb, which he cut while at work in the morning. She then noticed a deep scratch on his thumb. As he felt bad he went to bed. On Sunday afternoon he said his thumb was giving him dreadful pain, and he could not think what was the matter, and he felt ill all over. He was shivering, and could not hold a cup. He was due at work at six that evening, and in spite of her protests, he went. He worked all night, and, when he returned shortly before six in the morning his hand was worse. He bathed it, and she advised him to go to the doctor, who ordered his immediate removal to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, where he died last Monday. Dr. Fisher (house-surgeon) said death was due to blood poisoning. The jury gave a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence. and expressed their sympathy with the widow.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Friday 05 February 1915

MILITARY HOSPITAL.
Influenza Amongst the Soldiers in Exeter
V.A.D. ASSIST

During the last few days there has been much anxiety in Exeter because of reports that an epidemic of influenza, with pleurisy and pneumonia complications, was raging at Topsham Barracks. It was alleged that the Military Hospital at the Higher Barracks was so full that the medical and nursing staff could not deal with the cases, and that there were at Topsham Barracks about 200 men so ill that they ought to be in hospital, but, owing to lack of facilities, had—to put it bluntly—take their chance in the draughty huts.
We have investigated this very serious statement, and our information goes to show that there is a considerable amount of truth in the stories buzzing around Exeter.
We are happy to be able to state that steps have now been taken to remedy matters, and hope there need no further anxiety that the men will lack proper treatment.
The trouble, we understand, is that a military hospital equipment practically on peace footing has had to deal with influenza epidemic. Medical staff has itself been victims to influenza, thus further depleting an inadequate staff. The nursing staff is also altogether too small to cope with the work…
Western Times - Friday 05 February 1915

Exeter Hero Arrives Home Injured From the Front.

On Thursday another batch of wounded and sick soldiers, numbering over one hundred, arrived at Exeter, and were conveyed to the Temporary Hospitals. Many of them were cot cases, the majority of the men being victims of frost-bite. Among the arrivals was Gunner Townhill, of the Artillery, who was called up as a Reservist at the beginning of the war. He was then in the Exeter City Police Force, and in the early stages of the campaign, he was mentioned in despatches for a conspicuous act of gallantry. Downhill has been invalided home with an injury to the hip, owing to an accident, and a slight attack of influenza. He is now at the No. 2 Hospital Pennsylvania.
Western Times - Saturday 06 February 1915

OUR LETTER BOX
APPEAL BY THE MAYORESS OF EXETER.
To the Editor of the " Western Times."

Dear Sir,—Although our many friends in the West are sending in steadily, the demands upon the 'Mayoress' Depot are outrunning the supply.
On Friday and Saturday we despatched about 300 scarves to the Front, and to West country ships in the North Sea. To-day there has been a sudden call for 200 scarves for troops going to the Front. Happily we were able to supply them at a minute's notice, but our stocks are now quite depleted. We urgently want scarves—hundreds of them and many hundred pairs of socks as the generosity of the public is able to send in. We cannot have too many scarves and socks.
There is no reason why everybody, even the poorest, should not assist us. The smallest contributions are welcome. For instance, we are now wanting to replenish our stock of leather bootlaces, so if any cannot give a scarf let them give a pair of bootlaces. Nothing comes amiss to the net at the Mayoress' Depot.
Yours very truly,
J. KIRK G. OWEN.
Mayoress.
Guildhall, Exeter.
15th February, 1915.
Western Times - Tuesday 16 February 1915

Red Cross flag unfurled at Exeter

An interesting ceremony was performed yesterday in Exeter, when a new Red Cross flag was unfurled at the No.1 Military Hospital the Eye Infirmary. It was hoisted on a flagstaff erected on the green in front of the main entrance, and was unfurled by Miss Buller, Assistant County Director of the Red Cross Society at the invitation of Mr. Candler, the officer in charge. Miss Buller expressed the pleasure it gave her to perform the ceremony, and said she was sure the flag would do credit to the Institution. The flag is the gift of the nursing staff of the hospital, while the staff and fittings were presented by Mrs Pett, the Quartermaster, who remarked, in the course of a short address, that she hoped the flag would be a source of protection under the Geneva Convention. The ceremony was witnessed by the nursing staff and a number of visitors, who gave three hearty cheers as Miss Buller unfurled the flag. The staff is 22 feet high, and the flag measures 12 feet by 4 feet.
Western Times - Wednesday 17 February 1915

Church Fire
AT EXETER,
PLUCKY VISITOR.

The Exeter Fire Brigade yesterday received a call to St. Mary Major's Church. It appears that at 12.15 p.m. the caretaker (Mr. Edgar Browne) left a bucket with cold water on a ring by the main gas meter and went home. The ring was not lighted. At 12.20, while the Rector (the Rev. H. S. Wyatt) was conducting a service, the Curate (the Rev. J. A. S. Castlehow) heard a crackling noise, and on investigating, found the cupboard containing the meter in flames and the porch full smoke. He ran to one the churchwardens (Mr. H. Williams), who lives close by, and told him, and also got a bucket of water. Fortunately, while the curate was fetching Mr. Williams, a visitor, Mr. Samuel Roger Hadfield, of Merton, Surrey, staying at the Globe Hotel, seeing the smoke, ran into the church, crawled on his hands and knees to the meter, and, at great personal risk, turned off the gas. The fire was subsequently quickly extinguished by the curate and Mr. Williams, and some constables, under P.S. Wreford, before the Brigade arrived. The cupboard of the meter was scorched, some books were burnt, and pipes around the meter melted. It is not known how the gas caught alight.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Saturday 20 February 1915

A GRATEFUL TOMMY
Sends a Letter to Exeter Lady
Thanking Her for Comforts

Pte. P. Hackworthy, of C Section Field 22nd Ambulance 8th Division, R.E.. writing from the Front, under the date of February 1st, to Miss Jones, "Derneleigh." Hill's Court, Exeter, says: I was very surprised, though, of course, very glad, to have a parcel from you. The things sent were very acceptable, especially the mittens, as it is so very cold here—snowing whilst I am writing this letter. The soap also was a God-send, as that is an article which is very scarce. Thinking, perhaps, it will interest you how we fare, I may say we do duty either collecting wounded or doing hospital work, about sixteen hours out of the twenty-four. The other few hours we try to sneak a little rest. As for meals, we partly live on biscuits, jam and bully beef, but we can put up with all this for the sake of our country, and smile with it, too. The sound of gun firing continually from morn till night—in fact, have got so accustomed it that we take little or notice of it. Our troops have been doing splendid out here, considering the weather conditions. The most cases we have had to deal with have been frozen feet. You may just imagine the poor fellows up to their necks in water for days on end, and doing it without a grumble. I must close my letter now, as the Censor won't allow to say much. So once more thanking you from the bottom of my heart, will close.—l remain, yours for ever grateful, Percy Hackworthy.
Western Times - Saturday 20 February 1915

Fatal Sequel to an Exeter Tram Accident.

The death occurred at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday of Mr. George Creedy, who resided at St. Leonard's avenue, Exeter, and who was 82 years age. He was admitted to the hospital on February 5th, having been accidentally knocked down by a tram-car in High-street about four o'clock in the afternoon of that day. He suffered from deafness, and it is stated that stepped off the kerb just opposite the "Western Times" office and went right in the tram track. Motorman Spear, who was driving No. 11 car, having no chance, to pull up, although, the car was going very slowly at the time. Spear, however, did drop the cowcatcher, and it was thought at the time that Mr. Greedy was not seriously injured. His advanced age, however, necessarily made the shock all the more acute. Deceased was a retired police officer.
Western Times - Tuesday 23 February 1915

Belgian Refugee Conference

Sir Ernest Hatch, Chairman of the Royal Commission for the Employment of Belgian Refugees, addressed a conference for the West England, over which the Mayor of Exeter presided, at the Guildhall, Exeter, Wednesday afternoon. There were representatives present from most the Councils and Refugee Committees the larger Devon towns. Sir Ernest Hatch, frankly admitted that the approved Government scheme for workshops and factories for refugees was not applicable to the West, where the 2,500 had been distributed over a very wide area. The figures adduced showed that there were comparatively few refugees capable of working who were not employed. Apparently, although few agriculturists had come over, the labouring classes which had escaped from Belgium were very adaptable, and soon did excellent work on the land. Sir Ernest emphasised the principle of the Government, that there must be no sweated Belgian labour. If farmers engaged refugees they must pay them the proper wage of the district. As a matter of fact the Conference was disappointing to many who had come long distances in the hope of hearing some definite suggestions for action against the time when private hospitality will have dried up. To sum the whole thing up, Sir Ernest Hatch carried things no further than say that where local committees were dealing with their refugees the Local Government Board had neither desire or intention of interfering with them. Sir Ernest Hatch being concerned only with the employment of refugees nothing was said about the very interesting and difficult problem with which local committees will faced when a large number of refugees 10s per head are planted in areas beside the refugees who, down to the present, have been maintained by local effort.
Western Times - Thursday 25 February 1915

Exeter Labourer Pugilistic After
Drinking Cider

A young labourer, of West-street, Henry Radnedge, was charged at the Exeter Police Court yesterday with being and drunk and disorderly in Pinhoe-road on Tuesday, and with assaulting P.C J. Steer.—According to the constable, defendant went into the Pinhoe road Dairy at night, and murmured something about “swede greens." His conduct was such that proprietor, Mr. Hammett ordered him away. Witness advised him to go home, when he became violent, put himself in a fighting attitude, and hit witness on the chest. Witness had to draw his truncheon.—Defendant now told the Magistrates that had been to some furniture sales at Pinhoe, and had had some cider.—He was fined 5s and costs.
Western Times - Thursday 25 February 1915

Exeter Police Court

Three youths, Bertie Webber, of 32, Combe Street, Walter Swanston, Market Street, and Alfred Beer, 5, Friars Walk, admitted playing football in the public street on Friday last. They expressed regret, and were ordered to pay 1s each.
Western Times - Saturday 27 February 1915

January 1915

The Passing of 1914 in Exeter

As far as scenes in the City went last evening, there was very little to indicate that the Old Year was passing and the New One being ushered in. .lust before midnight a few groups congregated in the main thoroughfares, and there were a few hearty handshakes, the usual good wishes, and the singing of “Auld Lang Syne." As the midnight hour struck the bells of several of the City Churches rang out, indicating that 1914 had passed. Old Year's night is a great one for men from the north of the Tweed, and though there was a public function in Exeter, Scotsmen living in the "Ever Faithful" did not forget to celebrate Hogmanay in their own particular fashion. As far the weather went, 1915 was entered upon with the moon shining, but the atmosphere was inclined to be raw and cold. Just before one o'clock heavy rain fell. Watch night services were held in many of the churches of the city.
Western Times - Friday 1 January 1915

EXETER BOYS
Do Their Best to Frighten Tram Passengers

It is not a rare occurrence for the passengers our City tram-cars to be very much startled by the sound of a loud report from underneath the car. The trouble is nearly always caused by mischief-loving boys, who think it huge fun to place a detonator, used on the railways as fog signals, on the tram rails. This prank, however, landed a couple of lads into trouble at the City Police Court, yesterday, before Mr. T. Linscott (in the chair), and Mr. J. Stokes. They were Reginald William Bird, of 32, Clifton-road, summoned for unlawfully placing on the tramway track certain explosive material on the 19th inst., and Edward Bird, Albert-street, for knowingly aiding him.—Both defendants acknowledged the offence, and Inspector Sanford said that about 10.45 p.m. the day in question, whilst the car was going up Paris-street, a loud explosion was heard. The conductor (Archibald Hallett) got off, and saw a gang of boys running away. He gave chase, and caught one of them, and he learned that the elder of the two lads had given the younger one a detonator, and had told him that would go off if placed it on the tramway rails. Inspector Sanford added that there had been two other explosions that evening, but they had been unable trace the culprits.
Detective Hoyle said the detonators were kept by the Railway Companies. There was a certain amount of danger with them; they burst by the sides, and the little pieces were likely to fly out. People, at a time like the present, added Detective Hoyle, got very much alarmed at such explosions.
The Chairman pointed out the seriousness the offence, particularly that it might tend frighten horses, and added that the Act of Parliament covering the charge allowed them inflict a penalty of £5.—A fine of 5s inclusive was imposed.
Western Times - Friday 01 January 1915

Post Office Developments at Exeter

We are informed that the purchase by the Postal Authorities of a site on the Beech Hill Estate, Bonhay-road, Exeter, for the purpose of a sorting office has now been completed, the vendor being Messrs. Bradbeer and Sons.
This is the project which we referred to some months ago, the intention being to divert a large proportion of the sorting from High-street. This would probably be followed by the transfer of the Telephone Department to the General Post Office in Highstreet, and the taking over of the Castle-street premises by the Post Office engineering staff now stationed at Bristol.
Western Times - Friday 01 January 1915

More Wounded Soldiers at Exeter

Arrangements had been made by the local V.A.D authorities for the reception of more wounded soldiers from the Front at Exeter early last evening. They were due to arrive at Queen-street Station at 7.15 p.m., and after being drawn on to the down platform the ambulance train was shunted, as usual, on to the up platform. The men were then conveyed by the V.A.D ambulance staff, assisted by the local officers and members of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, to the motor-cars waiting in the station yard, and thence despatched to the local Temporary Hospitals. The men arrived at Southampton from the Front yesterday, and sixty were allotted to Exeter, about twenty of these, from various regiments, being cot cases. On the same train were a number of other men from the Front, who were sent the Plymouth Hospitals after the V.A.D. staff had served out hot drinks and refreshments to them at Queen-street Station.
Western Times - Tuesday 05 January 1915

EXETER THEATRE
VIGOROUS "MOTHER GOOSE."

"Mother Goose." the popular pantomime now runniag at the Exeter Theatre Royal, with every day of advancing age shows increased vigour. The principals, as attractive as ever, are rapidly becoming polished players of their parts, the choruses are settling down to advantage, and the ballets shows the result of familiarity and repetition in effective and artistic work. The whole production proceeds without a hitch, and the brilliance of individual talent marks this year’s pantomime one the best that has ever been produced on the theatre boards. The catch-songs go with a gusto that is the bait(sic) of success, the dances are executed with precision that leaves nothing to be desired, and the stage craft is responsible for a medley of particularly tasteful scenes. Mr. Bert Monks, as "Mother Goose is certainly a well-favoured dame, while Miss Cissie Thompson, as principal boy, has entered into a just popularity, which is true, has never been denied her in Exeter. Jack (Mr. Percy Cahill) doing remarkably well, and Puck (Muriel Seligman) and the Fairy (Miss Priscilla Stevens) are great successes. The whole pantomime is capable of affording one long merry laugh from beginning to end, and thus “Mother Goose's" regime at the Exeter Theatre should be a certain draw for many weeks to come.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Tuesday 05 January 1915

Serious Accident to an Exeter Labourer

About 5 o'clock last evening Alfred Coram, aged 38, labourer, living at No. 26, Belgrave-road, Exeter, met with a serious accident while engaged at the Brick and Tile Company, Pinhoe-road. Exeter. It appears that he was loading a trolley with clay when a portion, estimated at about 3cwt., fell on him, knocking him down and rendering him unconscious. His fellow workmen seeing that a serious accident had happened, after rendering first-aid, procured a cab and the unfortunate man was taken to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, where was examined Dr. Fisher, who found that Coram had sustained a fractured left thigh in addition to other minor injuries. He was detained.
Western Times - Wednesday 06 January 1915

Spy Scare Exeter

Several rumours were current in Exeter yesterday to the effect that some German spies, who are supposed have visited the City motor-car, had been arrested by the police. The police at both the City and County Stations, however, state thai there no truth in the statements.
Western Times - Thursday 07 January 1915

Exeter Bakers Decide to Increase Price of Bread

We have excellent authority for stating that the Exeter bakers, at meeting last evening, decided to advance the price of the quartern loaf to 7d, the increase to take effect Monday next.
Western Times - Friday 08 January 1915

SHARKS AT EXETER.

The two sharks captured by Mr. Litton, of Lympstone, a few days ago, will be again exhibited to-day in a shop in Sidwell-street, Exeter, near the corner of Paris-street, under the direction of the Committee who conducted the display of the devil-fish in the Highstreet. A penny is charged for admission, and the proceeds will devoted to the Mayoress of Exeter's Fund.
Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Saturday 09 January 1915

Restive Horse Killed In Exeter

A horse, that had been purchased for Army purposes, was being led from St. David's Station to the Army Remount Depot, in Paris-street, Saturday, and when in Sidwell-street, just beyond the London Inn Square, the animal became frightened by a passing tram-car. It commenced to plunge, and, rearing on its hind legs, it fell back over, and, striking the edge of the kerb, broke its neck. The horse had just arrived from Totnes, and no doubt was unused to the traffic. It was valued about 50 guineas. The carcase was taken to the Remount Depot.
Western Times - Monday 11 January 1915

Street Accidents at Exeter

A shoeing smith named William Robertson, who resides in Cowick-road, St. Thomas, met with a serious accident on Saturday. He was driving a pony and trap, and when turning round corner into Queen’s-road the pony shied, and threw him to the ground. He was severely injured, two small bones in one his legs being fractured. He was removed to the hospital in the horse ambulance by Supt. Bowden of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, and P.C. Reed.
On Friday an accident befell Susan Cann, 34 years of age, who is an inmate of the Almshouses Grendon-road. She was standing at the corner of Paris-street, when she was knocked down by a little boy wheeling a barrow. She was taken home and attended by Dr. Andrews, who found her to be suffering from a fractured thigh. The ambulance was telephoned for, and her removal to the Hospital was expeditiously accomplished by Police-constables Barrett and Harris.
Western Times - Monday 11 January 1915

Exeter Athlete at the Front

A letter has been received in Exeter, written from the Front by a well-known local athlete, F. Bailey, who is serving with the R.A.M.C., having volunteered for service shortly after the war broke out. Bailey will be remembered in Exeter sporting circles as the City and Babbacombe Soccer player and the sprint and cross-country runner. He was formerly a member of the Exeter Harriers, and latterly of the Exmouth Harriers, being a member of the Exmouth Post Office staff. In his letter, he states that he and those who went out at the same time have now got quite used to their duties. They collect the wounded by night in motor-cars and ambulance wagons, and work at what is a called a clearing house. Lately they have had lot of cases of frost-bitten feet. Bailey adds that he has seen a lot of the Devons lately, and many men whom he knew at home. Sergt. White, the old Exeter City Soccer reserve captain, under whom he had often played, came into the hospital where he was on duty, and passed away there. "We get a game of football in and out," says Bailey, "but in spite of that and hard work, I am getting, like most of the others, a little fat. It must be the air or the fattening biscuits. In Tom Gibbins, my old running chum, I have someone whom I know out here, and to have a pal with one is a consideration. We see a lot of aeroplanes above, and often they are fired at, but I have never yet witnessed one hit. The other week, by the way, I saw Chapman, the City's former goalkeeper out here."
Western Times - Tuesday 12 January 1915

A Modern Miracle Exeter

How two small sherks have contributed to feed 216 soldiers, or, rather, to do the whole thing off their own fins—so speak—is very interesting Exeter war story—a sort of modern miracle. At the end of last week the two small sharks were caught, and Mr. A. Williams, 10, Northernhay-place, saw in them an opportunity of helping the Mayoress's Depot. Mr. French, of Paris-street, lent a vacant shop in St. Sidwells. Messrs. Rouse, Pullen, Pratt and Pennington joined Mr Williams as a sort of Emergency Committee, posters were got out, and the sharks were ready to hold their reception. The public showed a proper curiosity, and contributed right willingly to the collecting box. The result was that Mr. Williams had the pleasure yesterday handing over £5 8s to the Mayoress for her Hospitality Fund, after deducting a trifle of 11s 6d for necessary expenses. Five pounds eight shillings equal 216 sixpences, and that is how it happens that two small sharks will feed 216 soldiers on their their way through Exeter to some destination unknown, as the officials say. Naturally the ladies of the Mayoress' Depot are very pleased.
Western Times - Wednesday 13 January 1915

Our boys write home

Rifleman F. L. Thompson, of Queen Victoria's Rifles, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thompson, of 7, Paris-street, Exeter, writes home:
We are down for six days' rest after two spells of three days in the trenches. We have been rather unlucky during the Year, having lost many men killed by German shells. One burst about fifteen yards below our billet in the village behind the firing line. It pitched right in the midst of a lot of our men who had gone out to sea where an earlier shell had burst, and the sight of the havoc it caused was awful. I happened to be playing cards at the time, and might easily have been in it.
Such a treat is in store for us! We are having a bath to-morrow, and won't it be appreciated! ...
Western Times - Saturday 16 January 1915

Collision of Tram-car and Waggon at Exeter

Last evening one of the new Exeter tramcars collided, in Alphington-street. with a two-horse wagon belonging to the City Brewery. Mark Knowles, the driver of the wagon, was thrown out and rendered unconscious. He was taken to his home in Tudor-street in a cab, and was attended by Dr. Corbett. His condition is not serious. The front of the car was slightly damaged.
Western Times - Wednesday 20 January 1915

Lecture on Aviation at Exeter

Miss Gertrude Bacon lectured the Maynard School, Exeter, last evening, on ”Flying Machines in Peace and War." Professor Clayden said both Miss Bacon and her father made their names famous through long fights in balloons, the former being one of the few ladies who knew what they were speaking about when lecturing aviation.
The lecture was illustrated, and was prefaced with several bird's eye views of London taken by Miss Bacon when on a balloon trip from the Crystal Palace. Miss. Bacon traced the history of flying from its very commencement, about one and half centuries ago, and pointed out that great disadvantage of the balloon was that it was at the mercy of the wind, and therefore could not steered. It was not until 1850 that the first airship was built, and these were now divided into three classes— rigid, semi-rigid and non-rigid. The Zeppelin was the largest class of airship, but the lecturer doubted whether that class of ship would prove so valuable in modern warfare to justify the enormous expenditure on its construction. At any rate the recent raid on Yarmouth did not justify it. Such huge machines were exceedingly vulnerable to accidents through bad weather, and afforded an excellent subject for an attack by hostile aeroplanes, which, when above the huge construction had it entirely at its mercy. It was the aeroplane that had conquered the air, and which was helping them to win the greatest war in history. The tractor biplanes had proved of immense value at the Front, and Germany had discovered that they were of more value than the Taube machine, of which they had several hundred the outbreak of war.
Mr. H. B. Varwell proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Miss Bacon for her excellent lecture, and it was heartily carried.
Western Times - Saturday 23 January 1915

EXETER AFFAIRS

Matters Come Before the City Council Next Tuesday
The following- subjects will be considered Exeter City Council next Tuesday evening:—
The Sanitary Inspector reports that during December seizures or surrenders of diseased an unwholesome meat were made, including whole carcases of beef and 1 of pork, 43 being made at the abattoir, 9 at private slaughter-houses, and at shops.
The Town Clerk has reported to the Sanitary Committee that a conference had been held between representatives of the Devon County Council, Exeter City Council and the St. Thomas Rural Council in regard to a joint scheme for the provision of a small-pox hospital. Particulars of such scheme with proposals for the provision of a hospital were being prepared, and would be laid the Committee in due course.
Messrs. Veitch and Son have given a quantity of bulbs for distribution between the two hospitals.
Mr. Harold Brakspear, the expert who was invited, while on a visit to the City, to examine the old house, in King-street, has presented an interesting report to the Estates Committee. He says the Council have rightly stayed the hand of demolition in regard to the property. At Lincoln and Southampton are still preserved Norman houses, and this building is most certainly of that date … Old House, King Street
Western Times - Saturday 23 January 1915

Slight Fire at Exeter

Damage to the extent of £35 was done at a fire which broke out yesterday, at No. 9. Georges Square, Stepcote Hill. Exeter, occupied by Mrs. Taylor, whose husband is a Service man. She left the house, and during her absence flames broke out in a room the contents of which were destroyed. Neighbours, discovering the fire, called the police, and later the Fire Brigade came on the scene, hydrants being put working. No risks had to be taken in this thickly housed quarter and the outbreak was promptly extinguished.
Western Times - Wednesday 27 January 1915

Mayoress of Exeter's Depot.

The big drains made upon the Mayoress of Exeter's Hospitality Pond of late have considerably lessened the money in hand, and fresh subscriptions are therefore urgently needed, A very excellent work has been done in the past with the money subscribed, and it is the earnest desire of the ladies of the Committee that this work should be continued, especially at a time like the, present, when troops are so frequently passing through leaving Exeter. Letters which have frequently been received at the Depot from soldiers at the Front show how much the refreshments given the men at the Exeter railway stations have been appreciated.
An officer of H.M.S. 'Natal' has written to the Depot acknowledging the receipt of a parcel of scarves and socks, and writes: 'Such gifts are just the thing, and have been greatly appreciated by all who were fortunate enough receive them, The weather has not been so fearfully cold after all, and we have all been kept most beautifully warm. The recipients have once more asked me to tell you how grateful they all are.
The only subscription received yesterday was for the Hospitality Fund, 2s 6d forwarded by Mrs. James. Exeter.
Western Times - Saturday 30 January 1915