‘Weak in the legs’ hairdresser told Army in need of barbers

A hairdresser applied for exemption from call-up on behalf of his 18-year-old assistant.

The teenager was described as “dull of hearing, weak in the legs and physically unfit for the Army”.

He was the hairdresser’s only assistant and if he had to enlist, the shop would almost certainly have to close as the chance of getting a replacement was slim.

The hairdresser, who also had a shop in Cowie, said a large number of soldiers frequented his shop and were charged prices considerably lower than civilians.

However, chairman of the Stirling military tribunal considering the case said the youth would be useful to the Army as barbers were always needed by them.

Military representative Major Alston said they had “very strict instructions” that all men were wanted whatever their capability.

There were innumerable purposes for which he could be utilised and exceptional circumstances had to be shown if those appealing were not to be called up. After “having a look at the lad” the tribunal dismissed the appeal but the youth was not to be called up until January 11.

The tribunal also considered an appeal against call-up from a Stirling dairyman on behalf of his 18-year-old son.

He father said the company, described as the largest in the burgh, was engaged in work of national importance in that it supplied half the town with milk.

No less than 350 gallons was sold by the firm each day in winter while 450 gallons was retailed daily in summer. Customers included military camps, public offices and residential properties.

The teenager was at that time indispensable to the business, said his father who asked that he be exempted from service for the period of the winter.

Tribunal members was told the firm used two cars to transport milk from farms in the country, and four horse and carts were used for distribution.

The dairy firm owner was assisted by his wife , the 18-year-old, a younger brother, and two young lads. A total of 26 boys and girls were engaged in the doorstep deliveries.

The application was dismissed but the tribunal recommended the teenager should not be called up until February 11, 1918.