Castlethorpe at War

War Games W.W.I
Postcards W.W.I
Silk postcards W.W.I
Silk postcards W.W.I
Soldiers' Language Manual W.W.I

 

Identity card World War II
Ration Book World War II

Northampton Mercury 16 April 1915

DAVIDGE, PTE., 1st (Cameron Regiment) Scottish Rifles.

Private Davidge was killed German sniper whilst outpost duty. He was only 24 years age, and had served in the Army seven years. Before the war was a labourer in the Wolverton Carriage Works. He leaves a widow and a little baby boy, who live at Castlethorpe.


Northampton Mercury 08 October 1915

PEACE.

Peace oh, that heaven-like word.
That should love to find:
Peace was once seen and heard
By beast and mankind
But now the war-like sound,
The clash of sword and spear;
Oh, ought they not to till the ground.
And use the hook and shear?

Peace, it flows like a dream
That soon must fade away.
It leaves the world serene,
Now in sad display.
Peace, could it sound afar.
And could we hear it near
We'd drown the sorrows of war
In shouts Peace dear!

N. Fairman, Wolverton Road, Castlethorpe.


Northampton Mercury 22 October 1915

DIED OF WOUNDS.

Information has been received by Mrs. Coey, of New-road, Castlethorpe, that her son Lance-Corpl. W. J. Coey, has died hospital in France from the effects of a bullet wound in the head. Prior to joining the army he worked as a coach painter at the Wolverton Carriage Works, and was a well-known local footballer and cricketer. He was 24 years of age, and had been at the front eleven weeks. The information was sent to Mrs. Coey by the Chaplain who buried her son. His body rests in the soldiers' cemetery at Merville.


Northampton Mercury 29 October 1915

LANCE-CORPL. W. J. COEY.

Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry, who died of his wounds was the son of Mrs. Coey, New-road, Castlethorpe.


Northampton Mercury 15 September 1916

POTTERSPURY.

The Potterspury Military Tribunal met on Thursday. The members present were: Messrs. H. T. F. Weston, J.P. (chairman), P. F. Ridgway, J. S. Tapper, J. Bishop, O. Harris, J. F. Bliss (agricultural representative), Major J. S. Brougham (military representative), and the clerk (Mr, W. Snelgrove).
A farmers wife from Castlethorpe Wharf appeared to support claim for renewal for a horsekeeper, aged 30, a single man. She said corn was all cut but not carried. The coal business had been given up.—A month (final) was allowed.


Northampton Mercury 22 September 1916

NEWPORT PAGNELL

The claim of a Castlethorpe nurseryman (31), supported by a solicitor, was favourably considered, and exemption granted until December 31.


Northampton Mercury 20 October 1916

BAVINGTON, PTE. ALBERT, Worcestershire Regiment, youngest son of Mr. John Bavington, of Castlethorpe. He was wounded on August 24 in the muscle of the left arm and right hand, is now in the City of London Military Hospital, and is progressing favourably. Before enlisting he worked at Wolverton Carriage Works.


Northampton Mercury 10 August 1917

Forty-four pounds ten shillings was realised at Hatton Court, Hanslope, as the result of a fete in aid of Christmas presents for the soldiers from Hanslope and Castlethorpe.


Northampton Mercury 10 January 1919

Meritorious Service Medal has been awarded the following men the Northants Yeomanry in recognition of valuable services with the British Forces in Italy:- Q.M.S. J. May (Castlethorpe),


Northampton Mercury 27 February 1920

CASTLETHORPE.

A Concert in aid of the War Memorial Fund was held at the Council Schools, Castlethorpe, last week. £5 was realised.
The Bucks Standard 17 November 1923

CASTLETHORPE

ARMISTICE DAY CELEBRATIONS

Sale of Poppies – Concert – Service of

Remembrance.

In support of the Earl Haig’s British Legion Relief Fund, Castlethorpe bestirred itself to very good purpose last Saturday and Sunday, with the result that £18.8.8 has been remitted to the headquarters of the fund.

Operations commenced soon after seven on Saturday morning, with a “peaceful picketing” of the station approaches, and raids on neighbouring houses by a dauntless band of six young ladies – three representing the Church – three the Chapel – armed with collecting boxes and prettily decorated baskets of poppies. It was intended later in the day to have made a descent on Haversham, but so successful was the morning’s campaign that the supply of poppies was entirely sold out at an early hour, and the intended foray, had to be abandoned for want of ammunition, which it is satisfactory to record had been most profitably expended. The sale of poppies was organised by Mrs. Seton and Mrs. Evans, and the lady seller, who raised a sum of £3 14/- were: Mrs. J. A. Cowley, Miss P. Bavington, Miss Maltby, Miss L. Marsh, Miss Rawlinson and Miss E. Cowley.

In the evening a really first class concert under the auspices of the ex-Services men’s Association took place at the Council Schools. Thanks to the untiring exertions of Mr. T. Osborne, J.P., a wonderful array of talent was provided. The artistes were: Miss N. Markham (Old Bradwell), Mr. T. W. Impey (Wolverton), Mr. B. Hobbs, Mr. W. R. Charlton (Newport Pagnell), Mr. J. Whiting (Stoke Goldington), Mr. Savage (Wolverton), Mr. H. H. Middleton, and Miss G. Atkinson (Cosgrove Priory). Mr. Middleton opened the concert with a brilliant interpretation of Chopin’s Polonaise in A, in his usual masterly style.

Each and all of the performers gave of their best, and the best reached a very high standard. A crowded audience showed its appreciation by vociferous applause, to which a generous response was made in the matter of encores. Mr. W. R. Charlton delighted everyone with his brilliantly rendered violin solos, in the success of which he owed much to the exquisite accompaniments of Mrs. Charlton L.R.A.M. Miss Nellie Markham sang with expression and charm, and Miss G. Atkinson, who accompanied herself on the piano, was heard to fine advantage, and as an encore for the ever popular “Annie Laurie” she favoured with “Alas, that spring should vanish,” from “The Persian Garden.” Mr. T. W. Impey is an old favourite with local audiences, and the enthusiastic reception given him on the present occasion was proof of the pleasure which his fine singing afforded. Mr. B. Hobbs has a most agreeable and well-trained voice which he used to the very best effect in his songs. Mr. Savage showed a wonderful memory and much histrionic talent which was highly appreciated, while Mr. Whiting convulsed the house with his genuine humour. Owing to illness Major A. Smith, who was down for one or two items, was unable to appear, his place in the second part of the programme being filled at short notice by Colonel the Rev. A. D. Seton, who sang “Sound the Pibroch,” and as an encore “Prince Charles Edward’s Farewell to Manchester.”

The concert was presided over by Lt.-General Sir Arthur Holland, K.C.B., K.C.M.G., D.S.O., M.O.V., who opened the proceedings by a short but most interesting address on the objects and needs of Lord Haig’s Fund, and at the close of the evening proposed votes of thanks to the performers, and to Mr. Osborne, which were carried by acclamation. Mr. Osborne, in reply, thanked Sir Arthur for do kindly coming to take the chair. His presence had been very encouraging and was another proof of his great interest in the disabled soldiers.

The programme was as follows: Piano forte solo “Polonaise in A” (Chopin), Mr. H. H. Middleton; song, “A little wooing,” Mr. T. W. Impey; violin solo, “Mazurka” (Wieniawski), (encored and “Abschied” by Ries given), Mr. W. R. Charlton; song, “I’m ticked to death” (encored and “Her mother came to” given), Mr. J. Whiting; song “Tommy Lad” (encored and “Old Fashioned Town” given), Mr B. Hobbs; song (a) “Devorion” and (b) “Awake my love,” Miss N. Markham; song, “I love the moon,” Miss G. Atkinson; monologue, “The last shot,” Mr. Savage; violin solo, “Liebesfrend” (Kriesler), (encored and “Humoresque” by Dvorak given), Mr. W. R. Charlton; song “Annie Laurie” (encored and “Alas that spring should vanish” given), Miss G. Atkinson; song, “Sound of the Pibroch” (encored and “Prince Charles Edward’s farewell to Manchester” given), Col. Rev. A. D. Seton; song “Red Devon by the sea” (encored) Mr. T. W. Impey; humorous song, “The non-stop dancing craze” (encored), Mr. J. Whiting; song, “O for a breath o’ the Moorlands” (encored), Miss N. Markham; song, Mr. B. Hobbs; monologue, “Roger Ploughman,” Mr. Savage; humorous song, Mr. J. Whiting. The very enjoyable and successful concert closed with a verse of the National Anthem.

On Sunday, the fifth anniversary of Armistice Day, the morning Service of Mattins, and Holy Communion celebrated by the Vicar the Rev. W. J. Harkness, was put forward to 10.45, and the two minutes silence was notified by a toll of the bell and was reverently observed.

At 3 p.m. a special service of Remembrance and thanksgiving, was conducted by Colonel the Rev. A. D. Seton, late R.A. (curate of the Parish).

At 2.30 a large number of ex-Service men, wearing their decorations and medals in accordance with the King’s expressed desire, formed up at the Ex-service Men’s Headquarters, and headed by Lt.-General Sir A. Holland who early in the morning motored to London to take part in the great National Service held in Westminster Abbey and returned hoe in time to take part in this one and who wore field service khaki, proceeded to the Church where special seats had been reserved for them. The church was crowded in every corner; even the porch was packed, and a large number of persons were unable to gain admission. After the Special Exhortation appointed for the occasion, during which the names of the fallen who belonged to Castlethorpe, were read out, the “General Confession” was said, followed by special Psalms and prayer. The special lessons were read by Sir A. Holland. After a brief address on the text from Isaiah lxii, II, “His reward is with him,” hymn 172 A.&M. was sung, during which a collection for Lord Haig’s Fund was made. A procession was then formed, and headed by a full choir singing Hymn 298 A.&M. proceeded to the Cenotaph at the east gate of the churchyard. The Choir lined up in the churchyard overlooking the monument, and facing the line of ex-Service men. Several beautiful crosses and wreaths of palms, laurels, poppies and other flowers from the Castlethorpe ex-Service Men’s Association and others having been reverently placed at the foot of the memorial, the officiating minister, supported by a bugler in khaki and wearing his medals, and a choir boy in surplice, read the prayers appointed for the occasion. After the singing of “For all the Saints who from their labours rest,” the “Last Post” and “Reveille” were finely sounded by Bugler Corporal A. Lehrie, late 2nd Bucks Battalion and the proceedings terminated with a verse of the National Anthem. The Blessing having been given, the choir returned to the church singing “O God our help in ages past.”

The brilliant sunshine rendered the scene at the service most picturesque, and the absolute stillness of the air enabled every word of prayers to be heard to the very confines of the large and most reverent congregation. Visitors were present in large numbers. Among those who attended were noticed. Mrs. Watts, of Hanslope Park; Lady Holland, Hanslope Lodge; Mrs. Atkinson, Cosgrove Priory; Captain and Mrs. Fergusson, Cosgrove Hall; Miss Balfour, and Miss Wells, Cosgrove Dower House; Miss Hull; Mrs Seton, of Mounie Castle, Aberdeenshire; Miss F. Watts, Miss Anderson, Mr. and Mrs. J. Whiting, and Mr. and Mrs. Cannon; Mr. and Mrs. Brown Castlethorpe, and Major and Mrs. Pollexfen Furtho House, Old Stratford.


Northampton Mercury 22 December 1939

KNITTING FOR SERVING MEN

A whist drive, a combined effort of the Women's Institute and the Mothers’ Union, held at Castlethorpe Lodge, the residence of Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Whiting, realised £2 2s. 1½d. for the comforts fund for men on service.
Mrs. Whiting, president of the Institute, explained that the effort aimed at supporting a knitting party comprising members of the Institute and of the Mothers’ Union.
It was stated that in 10 weeks 20 pairs of socks, four helmets, 10 scarves, eight pairs of mittens, four pairs of gloves, and one pair of hospital socks had been knitted. The Christmas parcels despatched had also included handkerchiefs, bootlaces, soap and postal orders of 5s. each. The knitting party hoped to maintain the provision of woollen comforts for local serving men and to knit blankets and other comforts in response to the Red Cross Appeal.
Mrs. Lewis, organiser of the fund and vice-president of the Institute, thanked Mr. and Mrs Whiting for the loan of the house and for providing refreshments and prizes. Other donors of prizes were Mrs. R. Mayes, Mr. J. Cannon, Mrs. H. Cook, and Mrs. Willett and were won by Mrs. May, Miss Feasey, Mr. Meacham. Mr. R. Pittam, Mr. E. Ray and Anstee. Mrs. K. Robinson organised a competition.


Northampton Mercury 28 June 1940

POLICE ASK FOR HEAVIER PENALTIES
LIGHTS IN NORTH-BUCKS BLACK-OUT

Six of seven offenders dealt with at Stony Stratford Police Court had neglected to black out premises properly. In each case a fine of £1 was imposed.

George Hart, Castlethorpe, pleaded guilty.
Constable Keen said a light shone from an oil lamp.
Defendant stated he was listening to the wireless and forgot all about the lamp.


Northampton Mercury 23 August 1940

BUCKS FARMER FINED £10
ILL—COULD NOT
PLOUGH LAND CASTLETHORPE

A Castlethorpe farmer was fined £10 at Newport Pagnell Police Court on Wednesday for not ploughing up 25 acres of land.
William G. Clarke, farmer. The Village, Castlethorpe, was summoned for not ploughing up land at Hanslope, and pleaded not guilty.
Mr. A. Richard Ellis (instructed by the Ministry of Agriculture) prosecuted for the Bucks. War Agricultural Committee. and said that for the past 19 years Clarke had been the occupier of the land, of which two fields of 25 acres were scheduled for ploughing and cultivation this year. Defendant ignored the direction, and did not get in touch with the local committee for assistance, which he was invited do. No ploughing at all had been done.
Walter Beesley. Manor Farm. Hanslope. a member of the Newport Pagnell District Committee, said the two fields scheduled adjoined his own, and were quite suitable for ploughing. He had made a formal inspection, and had seen defendant on more than one occasion with regard the possibility of the committee taking over the work, as, defendant had raised the objection that had not the tackle.

FIVE MONTHS’ ILLNESS

Philip C. Gambell, secretary of the Newport Pagnell Committee, said that Clarke had not approached him for assistance. In answer to the chairman (Sir Walter Carlile), witness said that Clarke, with a relation, farmed about 70 acres.
Reginald Davey, secretary of the Bucks. War Agricultural Committee, also gave evidence Clarke told the Bench that when he received the requisition he was ill, and was laid up with bronchial pneumonia for five months. He did not know he had anything to do with ploughing up. He had the land for temporary grass-keeping, and had never been the regular occupier.
The Chairman: You will have to pay fine of £10. Can you do it now, or shall we wait till we get it? Defendant: I’ll pay it now.


Northampton Mercury 29 November 1940

“INSULT TO POLICE”
STORY OF LIGHT AT BUCKS HOUSE “EXAGGERATED” -- DEFENDANT

DEFENDANT at Stony Stratford Police Court, declared that the police story of light shewing from his house was grossly exaggerated,” and made several other allegations.
Inspector Merry stated that a light was still snowing half an hour after complaint about it had been made to defendant. This, the inspector said, was an insult to the police.”
Defendant was fined £2.
William Scorer farm worker, Castlethorpe, pleaded guilty to showing a light from a dwelling, on November 5.
Reserve Constable W. T. Clarke gave evidence that a light was showing. After he had called defendant outside to see it the latter exclaimed: “You people are too officious because you are in uniform. There are plenty of other lights.” Witness added that defendant had been previously warned. He told him to shut the door, and defendant replied; “How do you expect me to get in and out of the house? Down the chimney?” Witness passed the house half an hour afterwards, and light was still showing.
Scorer, in defence, said the whole thing was grossly exaggerated. He arrived in Castlethorpe four months ago, and the first thing he did was to make frames for the black-out. With regard to alleged previous warnings, he was treated courteously by a policeman on the first occasion, and the second complaint arose through the moon shining on the bedroom window.

CHAIRMAN’S REBUKE

He said these people were too quick to make judgment, and did not make sufficient inquiries into the charges they made. The particular glimmer of light was caused by a slight crack where the frame fitted against the window.
It was a rigorous persecution, he alleged.
The Chairman (Mr. S. F. Jones): You should not say those words. Inspector Merry pointed out that defendant had had every opportunity of asking the witness questions, but did not do so The question of houses being blacked-out was a very serious matter, and the police intended to enforce the regulations to the full. The light being on half-an-hour afterwards was an insult the police and to the country.
The Chairman: You must pay £2. Scorer said he had only a few shillings for his wife to do her shopping, and was told he would be allowed seven days.
As he was leaving the Court-room he said he could not pay, and loudly slammed the door.
He was brought back by police officers to the defendant’s stand, and Inspector Merry pointed out that if the man persisted in his conduct it was contempt of court.


Northampton Mercury 29 November 1940

DIVISIONAL POLICE COURT

EXCESSIVE LIGHT FROM CAR
FIRST PROSECUTION IN DISTRICT

T'HE first case in the immediate district of a motorist infringing the car lighting regulations was heard at Northampton Divisional Police Court on Wednesday, when Benjamin Sydney Whiting, 46. Castlethorpe, Bletchley, was summoned for driving a motor-car with front lights showing an excessive amount of light, and thus being visible for a distance of 300 yards, at Wootton, at 9 p.m. on November 8.
Mr. Bernard Tippleston (Messrs. Dennis, Faulkner and Alsop) appeared for the defendant and admitted the offence.
P.C. Ward said that the sidelights had been painted, leaving space one inch in diameter, but this had not been dimmed, and the reflectors had not been blackened. The rear light had not been adapted to comply with the regulations and could also be seen from a distance of 300 yards.
Mr. Tippleston said that Mr. Whiting had done what he thought was adequate, but discovered he was mistaken.
It was pointed out that he had apparently attempted to comply with the amended regulations, but had forgotten that the original regulations still applied. Whiting was fined £1.


Northampton Mercury 20 December 1940

NEWPORT PAGNELL The Newport Hundreds Spitfire Fund has Increased to £3,176 11s. 6d. Recent donations include: Castlethorpe Mothers’ Union. £2 8s.; Messrs. Salmons and Sons’ Panel Shop, £2 0s. 7d.; Lathbury Salvage, 6s.: and anonymous gifts of 3s. 8d. and 2s.


Northampton Mercury 31 January 1941

OUR WAR WORK

A nice lot of woollen comforts have been received this week and Auntie Dick thanks all helpers. We now have a good supply of wool which will be sent out as soon as possible. Long-sleeved pullovers for the Navy have been sent by Mrs. G. Westaway, Naseby; Mrs. Gower, Roade; Mrs. V. Furniss, Lichborough (formerly Rothersthorpe); and Miss Markham, Castlethorpe.
Mrs. Mole, The Causeway, Carlton. Beds, has made and given a pair of socks a blue and a khaki scarf. " with good wishes.” She says that she is a constant reader of our paper and very interested in our work.
Mrs Audrey Bell, Hanslope, has sent three khaki pullovers which she and her aunties have made. Two pairs of socks and one pair of mittens have arrived without the name of the sender. I should like to acknowledge this gift if this helper will write to me.
Some of our helpers who knitted long sleeved pullovers for the Navy, have written to say they have a few ounces of wool left and are willing to knit another pullover if they can have more Wool. Unfortunately Auntie Dick has more wool of this kind and would be grateful if these helpers will return the odd ounces.  
If, however, anyone has actually started to knit a second pullover, please let me know by postcard I will then do my best to send sufficient wood finish when the surplus wool comes from the other helpers.
Two more pullovers have been received from Mrs Grant-Ives, of Bradden House. Towcester; these were made by Mrs. Harrison and Mrs. Outtrim who are both warmly thanked.


Northampton Mercury 28 February 1941

HOME GUARD WHIST DRIVE

A whist drive, organised by Home Guard members, took place in the Carrington School, Castlethorpe. This was the first social evening of its kind to be held in the village for many months, and it was well attended. Prize-winners were: Mrs. K. Robinson, Miss P. Padfield. Miss M. Maltby, and Mrs. M. G Hart. Mr. W. L. Jeffery, Mrs. M. Cooper (playing man), Mr. F J. Wilmott, Able Seaman S. Spraggon. R.N., Mrs. J. Sawbridge presented the prizes. Corporal J. Townsend was M.C. Proceeds were in aid of the Home Guard. Mrs. Furness, Mrs. C. Welman, and Miss Plomer sent donations.


Newport Pagnell Police Court

Frederick George Scripps. Castlethorpe, summoned for riding a pedal cycle with an unscreened front light, and without a red rear light, was fined 10s. and 7s. 6d. respectively.


Northampton Mercury 13 June 1941

PATRIOTIC VILLAGES

The combined war weapons total for North Bucks., including Wolverton urban, Newport Pagnell urban and rural, Buckingham and Winslow, and Bletchley urban, is now £604,461. Congratulatory messages have been received from Sir Kingsley Wood.
When a division was made between the amounts subscribed in Newport Pagnell urban and rural areas, it was found that the urban total was £81,774 and the rural £119,858. In the latter, the chief totals were; Woburn Sands £29,407, Olney £26,747, Hanslope £6,666, Emberton £6,426, and Loughton and Shenley £5,573. High up in the list were Great Linford £3,655, and Castlethorpe £2,809, Tyringham £2,643, and Sherington £2,583, whilst Haversham, which is close to Wolverton, subscribed £1,555, with Stoke Goldington £1,416, and Weston Underwood £1,377.
Entertainments to defray expenditure realised £86 15s. 8d., and it is anticipated that when these have been met there will be an available balance of nearly £40. It is understood that three social events at Hanslope, any available balance will be put to fund for the endowment of a bed in Northampton Hospital. The fund now stands at £735, all invested in Defence Bonds, and held by Hanslope Hospital Committee.


Northampton Mercury 19 September 1941

NORTH BUCKS NOTES

Youth movements in North Bucks are making substantial progress. The Stony Stratford Youth Service is now about 30 strong, and has been engaged in useful work for some time past. The squad has collected magazines for the Forces, and has helped with the war effort by collecting waste paper and addressing and distributing leaflets in connection with surplus food salvage. Several members have helped farmers in the district with the harvest. A physical training class is being started. All Youth Service Squads in Bucks are being asked to raise money towards the purchase of a Red Cross ambulance. Wolverton and District Youth Club raised £22 10s. by dance. Miss H. Hirons is the leader and organiser of the club. Castlethorpe Youth Service Squad realised £1 10s. for their funds by holding a social evening. The squad continues its work of regular salvage collection in cooperation with members of the Women’s Institute, who undertake the packing of the salvage. The boys are also accepting orders for what blackberries they can gather for local jam-making. Probably the first church parade to be held at Haversham was arranged by members of the Home Guard. They headed a procession, which was joined by Civil Defence workers and members of the Special Constabulary and Girl Guides.


Northampton Mercury 10 October 1941

CASTLETHORPE YOUTHS’ CLUB PLAN

A social and whist drive, arranged by the boys or the local Youth Service Squad and held in the Carrington Hall, Castlethorpe, realised a profit of 10s. 8d., which has been contributed to the County Youth Red Cross Fund towards the cost or providing a motor ambulance.
Through other and similar events the Squad has been able to establish funds, also, for the provision of Y.S.S. Club. With the assistance of the Parish Council, facilities have been granted which enable the Club to be run in the Carrington Hall on two evenings each week and leaders of various organisations in the village have agreed to speak and lead debates on subjects of interest to the Youth Squad as submitted by them in a programme of suggestions for club entertainment and information. As officer of the local Home Guard, Lieutenant J. Wilmot has already given a talk and has agreed to give physical training instruction.


Northampton Mercury 31 October 1941

AGE A VICTOR IN DARTS TOURNAMENT

Mrs. Coey, one of the oldest inhabitants of Castlethorpe, and Mr. W. Ray, who is making physical training a regular feature of Youth Service Squad Club activities locally, were the winners of darts tournament held during social evening at Castlethorpe. The gathering was organised by the Mothers’ Union knitting party. Proceeds were £10 12s. 3d., and to the Aid-to-Russia Fund. There were competitions for parcels, musical programme, and a gift stall.


Northampton Mercury 07 November 1941

CASTLETHORPE

Twenty-three parcels are in course of packing and dispatch to local serving men and girls of the village their Christmas gifts from the Castlethorpe comforts and Red Cross Fund. The contents or each parcel include two pairs of socks, gloves, scarf, a new novel, stationery, soap and shaving cream and a money gift of five shillings. Where helmets or scarf caps have not been sent in previous parcels, one of these has been added to the knitted articles.
Rearrangements for the winter campaign of salvage collection in Castlethorpe include attendance, each Wednesday, from 12 till two p.m., at a depot, lent by Mr. J. Bridge, of members of the Women’s Institute to receive paper and cardboard, which the villagers are asked to bring for packing. Old-age pensioners have volunteered assistance in the work of packing and schoolchildren will act as carriers of salvage when asked to do so.


Northampton Mercury 06 March 1942

DEATH OF BUCKS MAN FORCES

News has been received by Mr. and Mrs. Atkins, of Council Houses, Castlethorpe, that their son, Aubrey, aged 24, has died on active service abroad.
He was a trainer-pilot, and joined the Royal Air Force in July last. Eighteen months ago he married Miss Rene Stones, of Station-road Castlethorpe, who is at present employed in L M.B. Railway works. As a boy Aubrey won a scholarship at Hanslope Council School, which took him to Wolverton Technical College, where he received higher education until was 16. Afterwards he was apprenticed in the L.M.S. Works as a bodymaker.
A keen footballer, he occasionally turned out for Wolverton Congregationals. At Castlethorpe Parish Church he was a member of the choir and server, and also read the lessons. He was a bellringer at Hanslope.


Northampton Mercury 27 November 1942

CABTLETHORPE EFFORT FOR RED CROSS

A whist drive promoted by young members of Castlethorpe W.V.S. raised £10 2s. for the Red Cross and Prisoners of War Fund.


Northampton Mercury 24 December 1942

Mrs. J. E. Whiting and workers of the Women’s Voluntary Service canteen, have realised £50 by a sale and social at Castlethorpe Council School.


Northampton Mercury 30 April 1943

CASTLETHORPE

Organised by members of Castlethorpe W.V. S. and Women’s Institute, a sale of home-made goods in the school realised £61 3s. for the village "Wings for Victory" effort. Mrs. Robarts, County W.V.S. organiser, performed the opening ceremony, and was thanked by Mrs. J. Whiting, local W.V. S. officer. Competitions were won by Mrs. Coey. Mrs. Harding, Mrs. E. Mills, and Mrs. Homer. Refreshments were served by Mrs. J. Walton, Mrs. H. Cook, Mrs. T. West, and Mrs. J. Gunn. Ministry of Information aims were shown.


Northampton Mercury 28 May 1943

LAND GIRLS’ SUCCESSES

In the preliminary milking contests for members of the Women's Land Army, girls from Castlethorpe and Hanslope, in the Newport Pagnell area, will go to the final to be held at Aylesbury. Miss M Phillips employed by Mr. Markham, had the high percentage of 93, whilst Miss J. Bedwood from Mr. Geary’s farm at Hanslope, was second with 88 per cent. Miss E. O. Orchard, also employed by Mr. Markham, was placed reserve with 84.
In the Wing area, the premier position was secured by Miss G Wheeler daughter of the vicar of Stratford, with 91 per cent. The contests were held at Great Brickhill under the auspices of the Bucks War Agricultural Committee.


Northampton Mercury 07 January 1944

SOLD EXTRA MILK “IN GOOD FAITH”

“DEPARTMENT TO BLAME IF ANY INFRINGEMENT—Farmer

WILLIAM DAVID MARKHAM, farmer, Castlethorpe, was summoned at Stony Stratford Police Court for failing to notify surplus of milk and also for selling milk above the authorised amount.
He pleaded not guilty.
The Bench fined him £2 12s. 6d„ and ordered him to pay £1 11s. 6d. advocate’s fee in each case, a total of eight guineas.
Mr. E. Marchant, Bletchley, prosecuted for the Ministry of Food, and said that Markham was authorised to supply 1,992 gallons milk weekly, but for the week ending September 18 last he was disposing of 3,087 gallons. There was a difference between the wholesale and retail price of 10½d per gallon, and the excess retail would be over £44 in the week which was some inducement for him to retail the excess milk.
Arthur C. H. Jupe, divisional enforcement inspector for the Ministry of Food, gave evidence of interviews he had with Markham who, after he had been cautioned declined to make a statement, adding, “I was deputy provost marshal in the last war, and my experience tells me not to make signed statement. If necessary I will make a statement in Court.”

SOLD IN GOOD FAITH

Later, Markham said that the milk had been sold in good faith, and he was covered in the correspondence he had with the Regional Milk Supply Officer. He had been quite open about it. Markham elected to make a statement and claimed that he was entitled to sell the milk. He had not received a direction notice and his authority had never been cancelled.
He called his wife, Alice Gertrude Markham, who said that he had telephoned the United Dairies Company, requesting them to take surplus milk, but they replied could not do so until they obtained authority from the Regional Officer.
Markham, continuing his statement, said he had to ensure that the surplus milk did not deteriorate or was wasted, and that a direction notice had never been sent to him. If any infringement had been made, he alleged that it was entirely through the negligent manner in which the department had dealt with it.

NOT IN NATIONAL INTEREST

He had the milk, the United Dairies would not take it, and he could have given it to the live stock but that would not have served the national interest. He had been in business 30 years, and he did not know that he had ever willingly done anything that was not to order.
In fining the defendant the chairman (Mr. S. F. Jones) pointed out that the maximum fine was £500 in each case and 12 months’ imprisonment.
Markham said he wished to give notice of appeal, and was told he could do so through his solicitor.


Northampton Mercury 09 June 1944

Mr. J Cowley presided the wind-up meeting of the Castlethorpe Committee who organised the village Salute the Soldier week. The accounts were adopted, and a balance of £11 was handed to Mrs. H. I. Lewis, organiser of the village Comfort Fund and knitting party This addition to the sum invested by them during "Salute the Soldier” - week for presentation to men and women serving with the Forces, who received some part of their education at the village school brought the total to £86 5s. The knitting party were congratulated on their effort on behalf of the local serving men and women, and also for the assistance given to the Bucks Red Cross the Penny-a-Week Fund and other war charities.


Northampton Mercury 04 August 1944

CASTLETHORPE

A Home Guard play, entitled ’‘Well Done Castle Hill”, was given by the Castlethorpe Platoon as part of a “Salute the Soldier” concert in the Wolverton Works Dining Hall. Characters were taken by Lieut. J. A. Townsend. Sergt. A. V. Harper. Corpl. L. Gunn. Corpl B. Briggs. Corpl. W. D. Scripps. and L.-Corpl. G. Hart. The play, dealing with a probable situation which might have happened in this country after the advent of “D-day.” was written by Lieut. A. J. Townsend, and was enthusiastically received. Major Dewick complimented the players on a fine performance.


Northampton Mercury 24 October 1947

BUCKS BLACK MARKET TRANSACTIONS — Prosecution

REFERENCE to a clear case of black market transactions was made by the prosecution when a Bucks farmer was ordered to pay a total of £45 10s. in fines and costs at Newport Pagnell on Wednesday.
William Needham, farmer, Petsoe Manor Farm, near Olney, pleaded guilty to eight summonses under the Animal Feeding Stuffs Regulations in respect of buying and obtaining, selling and supplying dried sugar beet pulp without licence and without obtaining or surrendering coupons. The offences covered two transactions, four summonses on each.
The Bench imposed a fine of £5 in each case and ordered defendant to pay £5 10s. special costs, a total of £45 10s.
Mr. J. V. Steventon, from the Treasury Department, prosecuted on behalf of the Ministry of Food, and Mr. A. L. Singlehurst (Messrs. Dennis, Faulkner and Alsop. Northampton) defended.
Mr. Steventon said two men admitted they had received pulp from Needham, the amounts being 11 tons 16 cwts. and 18 tons 11 cwts.

“£5 10s. PROFIT”

On July 18 Needham told Chief-Inspector Slyfield he obtained the pulp from Jack Sawbridge, of Castlethorpe, about the end of 1946. Needham sold some at £14 a ton and made a profit of £5 10s. on one deal. The controlled price was 7s. 6d ton. Therefore, It was a clear case of black market transactions.
The Magistrates’ Clerk (Mr. E Marchant): What was the profit on the 18 tons?— Mr. Steventon: I have no evidence of the price. Owing to the unsatisfactory sale of some heifers, the pulp was sent as sort of compensation.
Mr. Singlehurst, in mitigation, said Needham had been at the farm at Petsoe End for the past four years. The land was arable, and no sugar beet was grown on it.
Prior to that he had a dairy farm at Stafford, and at that time (1943) pulp was ration free. His client had no knowledge of the existing regulations.
The 11 tons 16 cwts. went to his brother-in-law.


Northampton Mercury 26 February 1954

INQUEST ON WAR-WOUNDED MAN

For ten years Peter Edward Heaver suffered from the effects of a war wound. Last Sunday he took an overdose of phenobarbitone and died in Northampton General Hospital.
At the inquest on Wednesday on Heaver (28) of Lower Lodge Farm Cottages, Castlethorpe, the Northampton Borough Coroner (Mr. T. Faulkner Gammage), recorded a verdict of suicide while the balance of the mind was disturbed.
Heaver’s 20 - years - old wife, Brenda Mary Heaver, said he was shot in the head while serving with the East Surrey Regiment in Italy. It had resulted in his left arm and foot becoming paralysed and he suffered from pains in the head and epileptic fits.
Last Sunday her husband appeared to be asleep in the chair. She could not wake him, so she called a doctor and he was taken to Northampton General Hospital. He took phenobarbitone tablets to relieve his pain and she found that more than 130 of them were missing. She did not see him take more that his usual dose.
Dr. R. M. Heggie, director pathology at Northampton General Hospital, said it was one of the largest overdoses he had ever encountered.