Concert for returning troops, more wounded and flu hits 100 children
HERE in this regular feature we take a look back at items in the Rochdale Observer from 100 years ago:
●●COMRADES’ CONCERT HELPING THE MEN FROM THE FRONT
The many people who patronised the Comrades of the Great War Concert, given in the Provident Hall, Lord Street on Wednesday, had a twofold pleasure.
On the one hand, there was an excellent programme of vocal selections, while on the other, there was satisfaction in the knowing that the proceeds of the effort were to be used for the benefit of the men who, as Lord Rochdale said during an interval, having fought in the war, were coming back to enjoy themselves.
They would like, he said, when they did come back, to talk things over and “butt” a bit, and clubs were the most suitable places for them to do it in.
The Comrades wanted an organisation which would see that the returned soldiers and sailors would get their rights and dues now that the war was over.
He was quite certain that all over England, everybody was grateful for what our lads had done.
●●LOCAL WAR ITEMS
Since our last issue, 19 wounded soldiers have been admitted to the Castleton House Hospital and 10 to the Birch Hill Hospital.
It is officially announced that the Distinguished Conduct Medal has been awarded to 31671 Lance-Corporal J. Lumb of the Lancashire Fusiliers, Rochdale.
The account of the award says: “He was wounded at the beginning of an attack, and being unable to walk, crawled after his section to the most advanced post of the battalion, where he remained for 36 hours, helping in the consolidation. He set a splendid example of courage and determination.”
●●WAR CASUALTIES
Private Charles Ormerod (Devons, Lewis gun section), whose home was at 138 Bolton Road, Marland, was killed in action on October 20th. He was 32 years of age.
Gunner Fred Dean, Royal Garrison Artillery, who formerly resided at Garfield, Newhey, was killed in action on October 30th. He was 21 years of age and in civil life a draughtsman with J. Holroyd and Company, Milnrow.
●●THE CHURCH AND NATIONAL RECONSTRUCTION
The Church of England has no provision for emergencies such as the stupendous task of Spiritual Reconstruction after the war.
Governments may end wars; but the church alone can bring peace on earth.
Diocesan Boards of Finance demand for the completion of their efforts, the formation of a Central Fund.
It’s establishment can now no longer be delayed.
Previous announcements have shown that organised religious effort must protect returned sailors, soldiers and disbanded workers in munitions and other war services from alarming moral temptations pending their absorption into civil life.
The recruiting of a great army of clergy, lay helpers and social workers, entailing a large expenditure must begin now - has, in fact, already begun.
The Church of England must not fail the Nation in its needs.
The Central Fund is as yet unprovided: but the nation dare not fail the church.
●●INFLUENZA
Whilst the number of Rochdale people suffering from what was generally known as ‘Spanish flu’ has rapidly decreased, it appears that an influenza epidemic of less malignant character is causing some inconvenience locally.
On Monday, over 100 children were absent from the schools in the borough either on account of influenza or what is described as ‘a severe cold,’ whilst the number of mill operatives unable to follow their employment for similar reasons has increased during the past few days.