Old Ledbury - Board Of Guardians

Board Of Guardians

[Ledbury Belle Orchard House]

Ledbury Guardian Newspaper 08-08-1914
BOARDING OUT QUESTION
The fortnightly meeting of the above body was held in the Board Room at the Ledbury Workhouse on Tuesday morning. Mr W. L. PRITCHETT presided, and there were also present Mr J. A. THOMPSON, (vice chairman), Miss HOLLAND, Miss LAKE, Rev. A. E. GREEN-PRICE, A. G. JONES, Messers J. RILEY, S. H. BICKHAM, J. J. S. POWELL, T. A. PEDLINGHAM, H. COWELL, W. DREW, F. INNES, A. G. BUNN, H. HODGES, W. S. LANE, J. C. DAVIES, J. PARRY, E. T. LANE, T. S. S. GARDNER, together with the clerk (Mr. R. HOMES), the Master(Mr J. KENDRICK), and the Relieving Officers (Messers A. G. SMITH and T THOMPSON).

THE BOARDING OUT QUESTION
Mr J RILEY again raised the question of the boarding-out of children in the House. They had got the consent of the Local Government Board to board out two children, leaving in the House two boys and one girl. Application had now been made to the Board to board out one or two children in the Preston parish. Personally, he did not think a house with four or five bedrooms would be sufficient to meet their requirements. He thought a house with accommodation sufficient to take 14 or 15 children instead of 9 or 10 would be more suitable.
A discussion followed, and it was decided to leave the matter in the hands of the Boarding-out committee to make every enquiry and report at the next meeting of the Board.

MASTER'S REPORT
The Master reported that there were 79 inmates in the House, last year 68, an increase of 11. The vagrants relieved numbered 137, last year 154, a decrease of 17.
Papers had been received from Miss MARTIN, Linden House.
A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to the above donor.

FINANCE
Mr BICKHAM reported that there was a balance in the bank of £1,205 12s 3d. Of this sum £423 6s 3d was the amount of a cheque from the County Council repayment of railway assessment. This left £782 8s 6d. Cheques to be drawn that day amounted to £70 18s 8d leaving a balance of £711 6s 9d in the bank, which he considered very satisfactory.

VACANT POSTS
The Chairman said a reply had been received from Miss PATTERSON in regard to the above post. She was still desirous of taking up the appointment. The Master had suggested, however, that they might do away with the appointment of nurse at present. The cook would be willing to take up the duties of assistant matron for a further payment of £5 per year, and the children's caretaker would be also willing to continue the nursing for a similar addition to her salary.
Mr THOMPSON proposed a resolution in accordance with the Master's suggestion.
This was seconded and agreed to.

SATISFACTORY
The Chairman said the members of the House Committee had inspected the House that morning and had found everything satisfactory. The inmates appeared to be bright and happy and well cared for.
This was considered by the board to be very satisfactory.

RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL
At a subsequent of the Ledbury Rural District Council, Mr DAVIES proposed with regard to the Homing Act that in cases of small repairs, the Inspector should call upon the landlord and inform him. Small repairs, if mentioned to the landlord by the Inspector, would be done straight away, and they need not be bothered by them at Council meetings.
Mr RILEY seconded and it was agreed to.

Kington Reporter Newspaper 08-08-1914
The fortnightly meeting of the Ledbury Broad of Guardians was held at the Board-room of the Union Workhouse on Tuesday morning. There were present - Mr W L PRITCHETT (chairman), who presided, Mr J A THOMPSON (vice chairman), Revs A E GREEN PRICE. A G JONES, A H KNAPP, Miss HOLLAND, Miss LAKE, Alderman J RILEY, Messrs S H BICKHAM, A G BUNN, J C DAVIES, E T LANE, J PARRY, T S S GARDNER, J PARRY, junr., J J S POWELL, H HODGES, W DREW, F INNES, H COWELL, T A PEDLINGHAM, with the Clerk (MR R HOMES) the Relieving Officers (Mr A G SMITH and Mr T THOMPSON), and the master (Mr J KENDRICK).

THE WORKHOUSE
The Master reported the number of inmates in the house last week as 79 against 68 for the corresponding period last year, an increase of 11. During the fortnight 137 tramps were relieved as against 154, a decrease of 17. He also reported the gifts of papers for the inmates from Miss MARTIN, Linden House, and that the inmates of the house attended a performance at the new Cinema House on Monday afternoon.

FINANCE
Mr BICKHAM stated that the balance in the bank was £1,205 12s 3d. which included £423 6s 10d repayment from thy County Council on overpayment by different parishes in respect of the reduction of the G.W.R. assessments which would be credited to the parishes concerned, which would reduce the balance to £782 5s 5d. The cheques signed that day amounted to £70 18s 8d leaving £711 6s 9d in the bank. which was very satisfactory in his opinion.

THE BOARDING OUT OF CHILDREN
Alderman RILEY reported on the question of the boarding out of children now in the house. They had received the consent of the Local Government Board to board out two children now in the House, leaving in the House two boys and a girl. Application had now been made to the Board to board out one or two children in the Preston Parish. Personally, he did not think a house with four or five bedrooms would be sufficient for their requirements for a cottage home, and he was of opinion that a house with sufficient bedrooms to accommodate 14 or 15 children was necessary and would be far more suitable.
Discussion followed and it was decided that each guardian should make enquiries in the parish he represented as to any probable suitable place for boarding out children, and report to the Boarding-out Committee (chair-man, Mr John RILEY), who in turn would report to the full Board.

RE-ARRANGEMENT OF OFFICERS
The Chairman reported that owing to Nurse PATTINSON, an applicant for the position of nurse and assistant-matron, being on holiday, he had not interviewed her. The Master had suggested to him, that the cook would take the position of assistant-matron at an increased salary of £5, and the children's caretaker would continue the duties of nurse for the same consideration. Miss BARNETT, the children's caretaker, was anxious to qualify as a nurse, and she had an excellent opportunity of doing so undo the tuition of Mrs KENDRICK. He thought that arrangement would answer perfectly well.
Mr THOMPSON gave notice that at the next meeting he would move that Miss PEDDLEY (cook) be appointed assistant-matron at an increased salary of £5 per annum, and that Miss BARNETT (children's caretaker) be appointed nurse at an increase in salary of £5 per annum. What influenced him was the fact that they would be putting people into performing duties which they were anxious to perform. Mr DAVIES seconded and this was agreed too.

OTHER MATTERS
Miss HOLLAND read the minutes of a meeting of the Ladies' Committee held on the 2Ist July for the purpose of organising a branch of the Brabazon Society for the benefit of the inmates.
The Chairman reported that the House Committee went round the House that morning, and found the inmates very happy and contented, and were well looked after indeed. (Hear, hear)

Kington Reporter Newspaper 15-08-1914
DEATH OF MR. HENRY MORGAN, OF LEDBURY
A Long and Honourable Career.
We regret to inform the death of Mr. Henry MORGAN of Stratherne, Newbury Park, Ledbury, which took place at his residence on Tuesday afternoon at the age of 72 years. Mr MORGAN had of late led a very retired life and twelve months ago was taken very ill, but rallied for a time. More recently he had been in a very precarious state of health and was in his garden on Monday, but on Tuesday, the morning of his death his condition became worse. and he spoke quite calmly to his family and friends saying that he feared he was dying. An hour later he passed away. Drs HARRISON and MCKEAN were his medical attendants. Mr. MORGAN leaves a widow (who for some years has been in failing health), and three sons, all of whom hold responsible positions in the Poor Law services.
The late Mr. Henry MORGAN was a native of Hereford and started life as a schoolmaster. In 1872 he came to Ledbury, and Mr. and Mrs. MORGAN were appointed Master and Matron of Ledbury Union Workhouse, joint offices which they held uninterruptedly until towards the end of 1907 when they resigned due to Mrs MORGAN's ill-health. The resignation was presented to the board at their meeting on October 22nd 1907, and warm tributes were paid at that meeting and at a subsequent meeting when Mr. and Mrs MORGAN were made the recipients of a testimonial from members of the Board, to their excellent care to the inmates of the House and the capable manner in which they had managed the institution. Mr. and Mrs MORGAN retired on a pension and since that time have resided at Strathearn, Newbury Park.
Mr MORGAN was for some years a member and hon. secretary of the Old Ledbury Choral Society and on May 8 1879 was presented with a timepiece by members of the society. He was the first secretary of and prime mover in the formation of Ledbury Freehold Land and Building Society, which has left such a mark on modern Ledbury. He retired from the secretary of Ledbury some time ago and was subsequently appointed a director, an ? he held up to the time of his death.
Mr. MORGAN was an active Freemason, and locally was regarded as the brethren of the craft as the father of the local lodge, the Eastnor Lodge, of which he had been Worshipful Master. He also held the office of Provincial Grand Senior Warden.
For many years Mr. MORGAN held the office of hon. secretary of old Ledbury Horticultural Society and when the society was resuscitated some years ago was elected Chairman of the Committee until the last year of it's existence when the condition of his health neccessitated and his retirement.
All projects that had for their aim in the improvement or benefit of the town of Ledbury and it's inhabitants always received his strong support, and he did a large amount of voluntary work untill increasing years compelled his retirement from public life.
On retiring from his public office as Master of the Ledbury Union, Mr. MORGAN sought election as a member of the Ledbury Urban District Council and in 1903 in one of the biggest fights recorded in an Urban Council Election, was elected a member. He was re-elected without opposition in 1911, but last spring retired and did not seek re-election.
In politics, Mr. MORGAN was an ardent worker for the Conservative cause and took a leading part in registration work for many years. He was a member of the local branch of the South Herefordshire Unionist Association, and a member of the Ledbury and District Lodge of the National Conservative League. He was a strong Churchman and had filled the office of sidesman at Ledbury Parish Church for many years.
The funeral is fixed for today (Friday), leaving the house at 2:30 pm.

Ledbury Guardian Newspaper 15-08-1914
DEATH OF A WELL-KNOWN LEDBURY TOWNSMAN
It is with genuine regret that we record the death of Mr. Henry MORGAN, which took place at his residence Strathearn, Newbury Park, Ledbury, on Tuesday at the age of 72 years. The late Mr MORGAN was one of the oldest inhabitants of the town and was held in high esteem and regard by the public generally. By his death, Ledbury loses one of its most useful and valued townsmen, and his demise will be greatly deplored. About 12 months ago, Mr MORGAN was taken ill but rallied for a time. Of late he had been very unwell. He was in his garden on Monday and on Tuesday morning he spoke quite calmly to the members of his family and friends, saying that he feared he was dying. He was advised to stay in bed but this he refused to do, and in the afternoon he passed away. He was attended by Drs. McKEAN and HARRISON. Deceased was a native of Hereford and before coming to Ledbury in 1872, he held a scholastic appointment. For 36 years he was master of the Ledbury Workhouse and retired from that position on May 8, 1908. On his retirement he was presented by the Ledbury Guardians with a purse of gold and an illuminated address. He was a Past Grand Master of the Eastnor Lodge of Freemasons and held the position of Prov Grand Senior Warden. The Eastnor Lodge of Freemasons at the time of the Masonic Festival, made an interesting presentation to the deceased. For some years he was secretary of the Ledbury Choral Society and upon his retirement in May 1879, he was presented with a handsome clock. He held a number of public offices in Ledbury, his rise counsel and foresight being of great assistance to the town generally. For many years he was hon. secretary to the old Ledbury Horticultural Society. He assisted in a great measure in the establishment of the Ledbury Freehold Building Society, and was for some years its secretary, He gave up the secretaryship in 1904, but remained one of the directors of the society in connection with the building of the Barrett-Browning Institute, with which he closely identified himself, being one of the trustees of the management.
The deceased was a member of the Ledbury Urban Council for six years, being elected third on the poll six years ago and on his election three years afterwards he was returned unopposed. Last year he did not seek re-election on account of failing health. During his tenure of office he took an active interest in all necessary improvements to the town, especially in regard to the paving of the streets. He was a staunch Conservative and assisted very largely in registration work; in religion he was an ardent Churchman, and filed the office of sidesman for a considerable period at the Ledbury Parish Church. Deceased was 72 years of age, and leaves a widow (who is in failing health), and three sons, all of whom hold responsible positions in the Poor Law Service. When deceased retire from the Mastership of the Union he was succeeded by his son, Ernest, whose wife became matron. He did not, however remain in the position long, removing to a larger Union in the same capacity.
The obituary for Mr MORGAN can befound on the obituaries page.

Kington Reporter Newspaper 22-08-1914
REFERENCE AT THE LEDBURY BOARD OF GUARDIANS
At the Ledbury Board of Guardians on Tuesday morning last, the Chairman (Mr W L PRITCHETT) said he was sure he would be consulting the wishes and feelings of the members, if before they began their business he made some reference to the loss they and the community in the district generally had sustained by the death of the late Mr Henry MORGAN. In speaking of the many services that Mr MORGAN rendered to the town and district of Ledbury, there were very few movements promoted for the welfare of the place in which the late Mr Henry MORGAN did not take a very active and helpful interest and part, but it was particularly in connection with that institution that they would best remember him and his work - (applause) - for as most of them knew he occupied the position of Master of that Union for the long period of nearly 30 years and there was every evidence that during that long time he carried out the duties in a most able and conscientious manner, not only to the entire satisfaction of the Board of Guardians and the ratepayers of the district generally, but to the great advantage of the many inmates over whom he had the earn and control - (hear, hear.) - and there were many people not only in this district, but scattered all over the world who were getting on well In life who would tell them that they owed their success in life and their positions to-day to the care bestowed upon them by Mr Henry MORGAN when they were young boys and girls in the Workhouse. (Hear, hear.) Letters received from them had shown how greatly they appreciated the early care and interest he took in them in their early training. Letters from them told of the good influence he exerted over them by the example and precept he exercised when they were under his control. Mr MORGAN acted in the capacity of Master of that House in an unselfish manner, and those who were acquainted with him would realise that this was so, because during his period there he had many opportunities of bettering his position, of going to larger institutions where the emoluments were in proportion to the work, and where his sphere of labour would be enlarged, but he preferred to stay where he was so well known and respected, and to give the Board and the inmates of the Union and the ratepayers is the benefit of his long experience. He moved a vote of sympathy and condolence with Mrs Morgan and the other relatives in their bereavement. ( Hear, hear).
Alderman RILEY, in seconded the vote of sympathy, said he believed (the speaker) must be the oldest member of the board, as he came on the Board in 1873, at which time Mr MORGAN was Master, and very early on in his (Mr RILEY's) duties there he found what an admirable officer they had in the Master. He not only had a very wide knowledge of the Poor Law, but he was also very keenly interested indeed in those under his charge. He was all the time doing for them what he possibly could to alleviate the sufferings of those who were ill and to brighten the lives of those who came into the institution. Mr and Mrs MORGAN were not only the Master and Matron of their institution, but they were the father and mother of it. (Hear, hear.) In addition to the way in which he admirably looked after the institution, Mr MORGAN was very deeply concerned in the religious life of the inmates. In conclusion, he referred to the way in which Mr MORGAN was trusted by the members of the Board and the officers, and said one really could not find words to express the admiration of a life like his. (Hear, hear.)
Mr BRAY, in supporting the resolution, said he had known Mr MORGAN over the whole period of his residence in Ledbury, and could testify to the great appreciation of the character of Mr MORGAN by every one who knew him and with whom he had business and social intercourse. One always found him uniformly courteous, thoughtful and obliging. The extraordinary way in which the BOARD placed implicit confidence in his judgment, to which Mr RILEY had alluded, had struck him in regard to Mr MORGAN, and one was only sorry that he so quickly passed away after his retirement from active service. He took a very lively interest In the work of that institution even when he ceased to be Master. He felt with Mr RILEY that words were poor things on occasions like these, and one failed to voice the deep appreciation that one had for so admirable a character. (Hear, hear.)
The Clerk said on behalf of the officers and himself they would like to associate themselves with the vote. The vote was carried in silence, the members standing.

MEETING
The fornightly meeting of the Ledbury Board of Guardians was held at the Board-room of the Union Workhouse on Tuesday morning. There were preent Mr W L PRITCHETT (Chairman), who presided. Mr J A THOMPSON (vice-chairman), Revs A E GREEN-PRICE, Father LYNCH, A H KNAPP, Miss HOLLAND, Alderman J RILEY, Messers S H BICKHAM, A G BUNN, J C DAVIES, H BRAY, J PARRY, T S S GARDNER, H HODGES, F INNES, T A PEDLINGHAM, with the Clerk (Mr R HOMES),the Relieving Officers (Mr A G SMITH and Mr T THOMPSON), and the Master (Mr J KENDRICK).

THE WORKHOUSE
The Master reported the number of inmates in the house last week as 82 against 70 for the corresponding period, an increase of 12. During the fortnight 223 tramps were relieved against 257, a decrease of 34. He also reported the gifts of papers for the inmates from Miss MARTIN, Linden House, and Mr GABB, High-street.

FINANCE
Mr BICKHAM stated that the balance in the bank was £1,168 10s 9d and cheques drawn that day amounted to £51 4s.

CONTRACTS
A letter was read from Mr A CARLESS, New Town, Ledbury stating that owing to the demands of merchants, who had advanced the price of all flour and offals 10 per cent., the contract for the supply of bread and flour would be advanced 10 per cent, as from August 15, and as he had to pay cash for all supplies, he asked that a cheque be paid him each fortnight for the supply of bread and flour.

The Board unanimously agreed to do this.
A letter was read from Mr A J CHADD, The Cross, Ledbury, contractor for the supply of butter, stating that he could not continue to supply butter at the contract price, but he would keep the Board supplied with butter at the price he paid for it.
A letter was also read from Mr Walter MARCHANT, chemist, Hereford, that owing to the war prices of, certain drugs would be increased.
It was decided that the Clerk should write to the Local Government Board and ask them their views on the matter.

REARRANGEMENT OF APPOINTMENTS
On the motion of Mr THOMPSON, seconded by Mr PARRY, it was unanimously agreed that Miss PEDLEY, cook at the workhouse, should also be appointed assistant-matron at an increase of £5 per annum to her salary, making it £30; and that Miss BARNETT, children's caretaker, should also be appointed nurse, at an increase of £5 making her salary £30 per annum.

This concluded the business of interest.

Ledbury Guardian Newspaper 22-08-1914
The fortnightly meeting of the Ledbury Board of Guardians was held in the Board Room at the Union on Tuesday. Mr. W. L. PRITCHETT presided, and there were also present Mr. J. A. THOMPSON (vice-chairman), Miss HOLLAND, Revds. F. S. LYNCH, A. E. GREEN-PRICE, A. H. KNAPP, Messers J. RILEY, L. J. C. RILEY, T. A. PEDLINGHAM, F. INNES, S. H. BICKHAM, A. G. BUNN, H. HODGES, J. PITT, H. BRAY, J. C. DAVIES, J. PARRY, T. S. S. GARDNER, together with the clerk (Mr. R. HOMES), the Master (Mr. J. KENDRICK), and the Receiving Officers (Messers A. G. SMITH, and T. THOMPSON)
THE LATE MR. H. MORGAN

In moving a vote of sympathy with the family of the late Mr. MORGAN in their recent bereavement, the Chairman referred to the great loss the district generally had sustained by the death of Mr. Henry MORGAN. One could speak in high terms of appreciation of the many services the deceased had rendered to the town of Ledbury. Mr. MORGAN took an active interest in all things appertaining to the welfare and general progress of the town, and they all deeply regretted his passing away. For nearly 36 years the late Mr. MORGAN occupied the position of master of the Ledbury Union, and they had had evidence of the fact that during that period he carried out his duties in a most able and conscientious manner. Not only to the entire satisfaction of the Board of Guardians, but to the great advantage of the many inmates over whom he had care and control. The many good works he performed were in evidence to-day in the lives of people who were at one time as children under the care of the late Mr. MORGAN.

Mr. J. RILEY seconded, and remarked that he probably knew the late Mr. MORGAN in the capacity of master of the Ledbury Union longer than any member of the Board, he (the speaker) having become a member of that body in 1873, The deceased proved himself to be an admirable master. He had a good knowledge of Poorlaw, and was keenly interested in the inmates under his care, doing everything possible to brighten their lives.
Mr. BRAY supported, and spoke of the great influence the late Mr. MORGAN exercised over the institution during his mastership.
Mr. R. HOMES said he would like on behalf of himself and the officials of the Board, to associate themselves with the remarks made.
The resolution was passed in the customary manner.

The Master reported that there were 82 inmates in the house, last year 70, an increase of 12. The vagrants relieved 223, last year 257, an increase of 34.

Illustrated papers had been received from Miss MARTIN, Linden House, and Mr. GABB, High Street.
A hearty vote of thanks was accorded the above donors.

Mr. S. H. BICKHAM reported that there was a balance in the bank of £1,168 10s 9d. Cheques to be drawn that day amounted to £51 4s.

THE RESULT OF THE WAR
The clerk read a letter from Mr. A. CARLESS, Newtown, Ledbury, the bread and flour contractor to the house, stating that owing to the abnormal situation created by the war, large millers and corn merchants had decided from the 15th inst. to charge an additional 10 per cent. on all flour and offals delivered against contracts made prior to August 5th, or in the alternative to close existing contracts. Therefore he was obliged to ask the Board to add 10 per cent. to the contract prices for all bread and flour supplied by him to the union.
This was agreed to.

A similar letter was read from Mr. A. J. CHADD, who has the contract for the supply of butter, to the effect that the price had considerably increased since the contract was made. The Board, however, could rely upon him supplying butter as far as possible to the union at market prices. He could not guarantee regularity, but would do his best.

A member stated that in the Ledbury market fresh butter was cheaper than salt butter at the enhanced prices.

The Clerk said Mr. CHADD was prepared to supply butter at the same price as was charged him.

The Vice-Chairman in accordance with notice, proposed that the present children's caretaker (Miss BARNETT) be appointed as nurse, and the present nurse be appointed to act as assistant matron, each to have £5 per year increase. Mr. THOMPSON said it would be an advantage, because it would mean one less official in the house.
Mr. PARRY seconded and it was carried unanimously.

Ledbury Guardian Newspaper 05-09-1914
VAGRANTS AND THE WAR
The fortnightly meeting of the above body was held in the Board Room at the Workhouse, Ledbury, on Tuesday. Mr. W. L. PRITCHETT presided, and there were also present - Revds. W. P. P. MATTHEWS, A. H. KNAPP, Messrs. J. RILEY, L. J. C. RILEY, T. A. PEDLINGHAM, H. HODGES, H. BRAY, T. S. S. GARDNER, W. S. LANE, together with the Clerk (Mr. R. HOMES), the Master (Mr. J. KENDRICK), and the Relieving Officers (Messrs. A. G. SMITH and T. THOMPSON).

MASTER'S REPORT
The Master reported that there were 75 inmates in the house, last year 70. The vagrants relieved numbered 607, last year 771, a decrease of 107.
Illustrated papers had been received from Miss MARTIN, Linden House, and Miss HOLLAND, Colwall; fruit, the Chairman and Mr. A. G. BUNN.

A hearty vote of thanks was accorded the above donors.

FINANCE
The clerk reported that there was a balance in hand of £1,248 10s. 8d. Cheques to be drawn amounted to £2,521 15s. 10d.

THE WAR
The following resolution was read from the Sedgefield Union: " That in view of the large number of able-bodied vagrants recently admitted to the wards of the Workhouse of this union between the ages of 18 and 50, who appear to be generally living on the community, the attention of the Local Government Board and War Office should be drawn to the matter with the request that legislation be passed for the purpose of utilising in some way the services of these able-bodied men for the country's good at this time of national stress. "
The Rev. MATTHEWS said this was a very desirable suggestion.
The Chairman agreed, saying that its adoption was not only desirable in times of war-fare, but at other times as well. (Hear, hear).
The members generally agreed with these expressions of opinion, and the resolution was heartily adopted.

VACCINATION
The Clerk read the following vaccination returns: - Mr. SMITH's district - Births 101; successfully vaccinated 30, conscientious objections 48, dead unvaccinated 3, removed 1, postponed 3, removed to places unknown 5.
Mr THOMPSON's district - Births 46; successfully vaccinated 28, conscientious objections 4, dead unvaccinated 3, removed to places known 2.

REPAYMENT OF RELIEF
The Clerk said he had received information from the Local Government Board to the effect that repayment would be made of relief given to the dependant of those who had gone to the war.

WAR RELIEF
The Board appointed Mr. J. RILEY as the representative on the County Relief Committee.
On the motion of Mr. BRAY, seconded by Mr. T. A. PEDLINGHAM, it was agreed that the whole Board should form a committee and join the existing committee in Ledbury in connection with the granting of relief during the war.
The Rev. KNAPP did not agree with the motion that the whole Council should form a committee, and declined to act.
It was decided that copies of the resolution should be sent to each member of the Board, together with a collecting book.

THE LATE MR. H. MORGAN
A letter was read from the family of the late Mr. H. MORGAN, acknowledging the Board's vote of sympathy passed at the last meeting.

Ledbury Guardian Newspaper 19-09-1914
PUBLIC NOTICES
LEDBURY UNION
THE GUARDIANS of the above UNION will be on TUESDAY, the 29th day of SEPTEMBER, be prepared to Receive TENDERS for the Supply of the undermentioned Articles for a period of SIX MONTHS from the 1st day of October, 1914.
GOOD BREAD, made of Best Seconds Flour, per 4lb Loaf.
FLOUR, Best Seconds, at per sack.
BEEF, (English Fed).
MUTTON (Sides).
SUET.
GROCERIES. Etc.
SHAVING AND HAIRCUTTING.
Forms of Tender, with estimated quantities required, may be obtained on application at the Union Workhouse.
Tenders, sealed and endorsed with samples where practicable, to be sent to the Clerk's Office, The Union Workhouse, not later than 10 o'clock on the morning of TUESDAY, the 29th SEPTEMBER, 1914. R. HOMES, Clerk.

MEETING
The fortnightly meeting of the Ledbury Board of Guardians was held in the Board Room at the Workhouse, on Tuesday. Mr. W. L. PRITCHETT presided and there were also present - Miss HOLLAND, Miss LAKE, Revds. F. C. LYNCH, A. E. GREEN-PRICE, Messrs. J. RILEY, and J. C. RILEY, T. A. PEDLINGHAM, W. DREW, F. INNES, S. H. BICKHAM, A. G. BUNN, T. W. HOLDS, T. S. S. GARDNER, together with the Clerk (Mr. R. HOMES), the Master (Mr. J. KENDRICK), and the Relieving Officers (Messrs. A. G. SMITH and T. THOMPSON).

MASTER'S REPORT
The Master reported that there were 74 inmates in the house, as against 75 last year. The vagrants relieved numbered 267, last year 284, a decrease of 17.
Fruit had been received for the use of the inmates from the Rev. F. S. STOKE-VAUGHAN, Mr. RICHARDSON, and Mr. A. G. BUNN. Papers had been received from Lady FANSHAWE and Miss MARTIN.
A hearty vote of thanks was passed to the above donors for their gifts.

FINANCE
Mr. S. H. BICKHAM reported that there was a balance in hand of £1,467 5s 5d. About £200 had been paid in that morning, which left about £1,650. There was a large cheque still unpaid, amounting to £1,754 10s for this Herefordshire county rate. In the course of a few days the committee would have sufficient in hand to meet that amount, and he would suggest that the clerk should then forward the cheque.

Ledbury Guardian Newspaper 03-10-1914
TRAMPS AND THEIR MEALS.
The fortnightly meeting of the above Board was held in the Board Room at the Ledbury Workhouse on Tuesday morning. Mr. W. L. PRITCHETT presided and there were also present, Mr. J. A. THOMPSON (Vice-Chairman), Miss HOLLAND, Miss LAKE, Rev. A. E. GREEN-PRICE, Messrs. J. RILEY, L. J. C. RILEY, T. A. PEDLINGHAM, W. DREW, S. H. BICKHAM, A. G. BUNN, T. S. S. GARDNER, J. C. DAVIES, H. WESTON, together with the Clerk (Mr. R. HOMES), the Master (Mr. J. KENDRICK), and the Relieving Officers (Messrs. A. G. SMITH, and T. THOMPSON).

MASTER'S REPORT
The Master reported that there were 70 inmates in the House as compared with 73 last year. The vagrants relieved numbered 37, last year 142, a decrease of 105. Fruit for the inmates had been received from Lady BIDDULPH, and Mrs. FENWICK, and papers from Lady BIDDULPH, Miss MARTIN and Miss RUSSELL.
A hearty vote of thanks was accorded the above donors.

FINANCE
Mr. BICKHAM reported that there was a balance in the bank of £2,950 3s. A large cheque due to the Herefordshire County Council amounting to £1,774 10s. had not passed through the books. When this amount was paid there would be a balance in the bank of £1,175 13s. Bills to be passed that day amounted to £627.
Mr BICKHAM stated that four parishes had not paid their contributions, namely, Aylton, Mathon, Little Marcle and Putley.

TENDERS
The following tenders were accepted:- Meat, Messrs. CHURCHILL, buttocks,; 7 1/2d, forequarters 7d; mutton 7 1/2d,; suet 5d ; best joints 8d. Bread, Messrs. R. H. WILKS, bread (for three months) 4 1/2 d. per 4lb; flour 34s. 6d. Mr WEBB, shaving 1s. per dozen; haircutting 1s. 3d.

VAGRANT'S MEALS
A letter was read from the Local Government Board with regard to the alteration in the dietary for casuals.
The opinion was expressed that the diet provided for tramps was too liberal seeing that they did no work.
The Rev. GREEN-PRICE opinionated that all poor people should know that tramps were now to have breakfast and dinner provided for them. Accordingly, there would be no reason for them to help these casuals.
The Chairman suggested that notices should be put up showing that the casuals could have breakfast of cocoa and bread and margarine or dripping.
Mr. BICKHAM said that in the past he had sympathised with the tramps who only had bread and water given them in the morning for breakfast. The casuals called at houses for hot water to make tea and now there would be no excuse for them to beg tea or hot water.
This concluded the business.

Ledbury Guardian Newspaper 17-10-1914
The fortnightly meeting of the Ledbury Guardian was held at the Workhouse on Tuesday, Mr. W. L. PRITCHETT presided, and there were also present: Mr. J. W. THOMPSON (vice chairman), Rev. F. C. LYNCH, Miss HOLLAND, Messrs J. RILEY, J. J. S. POWELL, T. A. PEDLINGHAM, H. COWELL, W. DREW, F. INNES, T. CALDER, S. H. BICKHAM, A. G. BUNN, H. HODGES, W. PITT, W. S. LANE, E. T. LANE, J. C. DAVIES, J. PARRY, jun., together with the Clerk, (Mr. R. HOMES), the Master (Mr. J. KENDRICK), and the Relieving Officers (Messrs. A. G. SMITH and T. THOMPSON).

IN THE HOUSE
The Master Reported that there were 70 inmates in the house, as compared with 75 last year. The vagrants relieved numbered 40, last year 125, a decrease of 85.
Illustrated papers had been received from Miss MARTIN, Lindon House, and the Matron at Ledbury Hospital. The donors were thanked for their gifts.

FINANCE
Mr. BICKHAM reported that there was a balance in the bank of £1,743 8s. 8d. Outstanding cheques amounted to £311 15s., which would bring the balance own to £1431 13s. 8d. Mr. BICKHAM proceeded to remark that the Finance Committee had gone into the question of the amount required for the ensuing year, and had come to the conclusion that a sum of £1,263 would be necessary , or at the rate of £6,352 for the half year. He proposed that precepts should be signed for that amount.
Mr. THOMPSON seconded, and said the increase was not due to extravagance but to those who sent their calls to them and which they had to meet.
The motion was agreed to.

THE WAR
A circular was read from the Pontefract Guardians of the following effect :- "That in the opinion of this Board the Government ought to at once make adequate provision for the persons who are injured" while doing service in the present war for their country, and in the case of the death of dependents they recommended that the money required for this purpose should be raised by a special income tax on all incomes exceeding 30s. per week. Mr. DAVIES said it was of no use for them to dictate to the Government in such a matter.
The Chairman agreed, and said he thought the matter should be left to the Chancellor of the Exchequer.
The circular was allowed to lie on the table.

TRAMPS AND THEIR MEALS
Mr. WESTON moved the following resolution in connection with the tramp question in accordance with notice given at the last meeting :- "That this Board is of opinion that the new dietary to casual paupers issued by the Local Government Board will be the means of encouraging tramps and therefore increase vagrancy."
Mr. W. S. LANE seconded, and the Vice-Chairman and Miss HOLLAND supported, and said she thought that if it were made known that a mid-day meal was provided there would be no necessity for begging.
Mr. BICKHAM said he would support the resolution so long as the objection was confined to the mid-day meals.
An amendment was moved that the Board decline to carry out the order except so far as it concerned the morning meal.

Ledbury Guardian Newspaper 31 10 1914
The fortnightly meeting of the Ledbury Guardians was held in the Board Room at the Union on Tuesday. Mr. W. L. PRITCHETT presided and there were also present Miss LAKE, Miss HOLLAND, Revds. A. E. GREEN-PRICE, A. G. JONES, A. H. KNAPP, F. C. LYNCH, Messrs. J. RILEY, D. A. G. BIRCHLEY, T. A. PEDLINGHAM, W. DREW, F. INNES, S. H. BICKHAM, J. J. S. POWELL, A. G. BUNN, L. J. C. RILEY, H. BRAY, J. PARRY, jun,. F. J. V. HAMILTON, T. S. S. GARDNER, together with the Clerk (Mr. R. HOMES), the Master (Mr. J. KENDRICK), and the Relieving Officers (Messrs. A. G. SMITH and T. THOMPSON).

IN THE HOUSE
The Master reported that there were 76 inmates in the house as compared with 75 last year. The vagrants relieved numbered 78, last year 108, a decrease of 30.

WELCOME GIFTS
Illustrated papers had been received from the Rev. F. W. CARNEGY, Miss MARTIN (Linden House), and Mrs. HAWKER; also apples from the Rev. F. S. STOOKE-VAUGHAN.
A hearty vote of thanks was passed to the above donors.

THE APPROACH OF CHRISTMAS
The Master asked for the usual Christmas extras to be allowed the Inmates, which was agreed to.

FINANCE
Mr. BICKHAM reported that there was a balance in the bank of £1,142 16s, 10d. Cheques to be signed that day amounted to £60 19s. 4d. When these had been paid there would be a balance in the bank of £1,081 17s, 6d. This included the payment of £374 16s,1d, by the Local Government

Ledbury Guardian Newspaper 14 11 1914
The fortnightly meeting of the above body was held in the Board Room of the Ledbury Workhouse on Tuesday. Mr. W. L. PRITCHETT presided, and there were also present Mr. J. A. THOMPSON (vice-chairman), Revs. A. G. JONES, A. H. KNAPP, F. C. LYNCH, Miss HOLLAND, Miss LAKE, Messrs. J. RILEY, L. J. RILEY, S. H. BICKHAM, A. G. BUNN, W. S. LANE, J. C. DAVIES, J. PARRY, J. PARRY, JUN., T. S. S. GARDNER, the Clerk (Mr. R. HOMES), the Master (Mr. J. KENDRICK) and the Relieving Officers (Messrs. A. G. SMITH and T. THOMPSON).

STATISTICS
The Master reported that there were 74 inmates in the House as against 83 last year. The vagrants relieved numbered 70, last year 105, a decrease of 25.

GIFTS
The following gifts were reported to have been received for the inmates&;58;
Jam, Lady COLVILE; papers, Lady BIDDULPH and Miss MARTIN.
A hearty vote of thanks was passed to the above donors.

FINANCE
Mr. BICKHAM reported that there was a balance in the bank of £1,199 14s. 10d. Cheques to be signed that day amounted to £72 5s. 6d.

CASUAL PAUPERS ORDER
The Clerk read a letter from the Hereford Union, inviting the Board to appoint delegates to attend a conference to be held at Hereford when the above Order would be discussed.
The Chairman said he thought it desirable that delegates should be appointed to attend and he hoped they would urge upon the conference to send a strong recommendation to the Local Government Board in respect to the matter. The subject had already been discussed by the Ledbury Board.
Mr. J. A. THOMPSON (vice-chairman), and Mr. W. S. LANE were appointed delegates.

Ledbury Guardian Newspaper 28 11 1914
The fortnightly meeting of the above body was held in the Board Room at the Ledbury Union on Tuesday. Mr. W. L. PRITCHETT presided, and there were also present Mr. J. A. THOMPSON, (vice-chairman), Miss HOLLAND, Miss LAKE, Revs. F.C. LYNCH, A. H. KNAPP, Messrs. J. RILEY, S. H. BICKHAM, T. A. PEDLINGHAM, H. COWELL, F. INNES, L. J. C. RILEY, A. G. BUNN, W. PITT, J. PARRY, T. S. S. GARDNER, J. C. DAVIES, A. A. YAPP, J. S. S. POWELL, together with Clerk (Mr. R. HOMES), the Master (Mr. J. KENDRICK), and the Relieving Officers (Messrs. A. G. SMITH and T. THOMPSON).

MASTER'S REPORT
The Master reported that there were 83 inmates in the House, as compared with 86 last year. The Vagrants relieved numbered 75, last year 108, a decrease of 33.

GIFTS
Gifts of papers and books had been received from Mr. W. L. PRITCHETT, Miss HOLLAND (Brand Lodge), and Miss MARTIN (Lindon House). Mr. T. MOLESWORTH had presented the old people in the House with an easy wicker chair.
The above donors were warmly thanked for their gifts on the motion of Mr. THOMPSON, who said MR. MOLESWORTH's gift of an easy chair would be greatly appreciated by the old people.

FINANCE
Mr. BICKHAM reported that there was a balance in the bank of £1,119 3s. 18d. Cheques to be drawn that day amounted to £73 12s. 9d. When these amounts had been paid there would be a balance in the bank of £1,045 11s. 1d.

BLANKETS WANTED
The Chairman said he had received a letter from Mr. W. L. TILLEY to the effect that 900 men of the Reserve Battalion Herefordshire Regiment would shortly be coming to Ledbury on a route march and asking for a loan of a quantity of blankets for one night as it was intended that some of the men should be billeted in various public buildings.
The Rev. F. C. LYNCH said that accommodation had been promised for 340 men up to the present.
Mr. PARRY moved that the Board grant the use of as many blankets from the House as could be spared.
The Chairman said he had a quantity of blankets h could let Mr. TILLEY have.
A discussion followed and it was decided that no blankets that had been used for casuals should be sent to the Territorials. (Hear, hear).
The Master said there were about 50 good blankets in the house available. It was agreed that all the available blankets in the House should be sent to Mr. TILLEY for the Territorials.

Sources
1914 Newent Reporter Newspaper - Herefordshire History
1914 - 1919 Ledbury Guardian Newspaper - Herefordshire History
1916 Tilley's Almanack
Photographs are credited to the owners
Comments are from members of the Old Ledbury Facebook Group
Cuttings from Ledbury Reporter newspapers
Transcribed by Claire ELLIS

Ledbury Reporter

The Reporter now has Archive photographs for the years 2005 - 2009 which you can view and order. Select a year then make sure Ledbury is the keyword entered before pressing GO. I have spent many an hour in the Ledbury Library looking through the old Reporters which are on microfiche. Support this great local paper.