|
The Council at War
Chapter 9
The Troops Arrive
Advantages and Disadvantages.
Many of the locals found that the arrival of the troops was a blessing in disguise, as the men had money to spend. The eating establishments were busier than ever, while many other shops did more trade as the overall population had increased, despite the number of local men who had joined the armed services. Where appropriate the troops took part in local events and the annual Statute Fair seemed to be bigger than ever when it opened on the Old Recreation Ground on 18th September. In addition to the regular attractions such as Thurston’s scenic railway, electric galloping horses, a joy wheel and a helter skelter there were two popular new side-shows - the “Retreating Kaiser” and “Knock Him Down”. The troops also took part in the annual Hospital Sunday Parade in October, and many civilians watched the inspection by Lord Kitchener at Gorhambury on 30th September.
 |
|
Lord Kitchener (middle) at Gorhambury |
However the troops were a mixed blessing. The Army had been encamped in Gadebridge Park for little more than a fortnight before the public were discouraged from using it. Shortly afterwards young Frederick Parrott, 5½, of Church Street, got so excited watching the soldiers march along Redbourn Road that he fell off the stile and broke his arm. The increase in heavy horse-drawn traffic led to a spate of accidents and in September Councillor Stratford complained that London Road was became increasingly dirty and smelly as a result. In October a letter to The Gazette complained about the dangerous manner in which horses were being exercised in the paddock near the Midland Hotel, fronting on Midland Road and East Street, and there were further complaints from the Councillors about dirt and litter. Alderman Dunbar commented about the quantity of hay and straw blowing about the town from the wagons taking feed to the horses. In November market stall holders protested that they couldn’t use the Corn Exchange on Thursdays because it was being used by the military.
|
| August 2014 | Page Created |