Bannockburn teachers are passed fit

On the homefront, it was reported to members of St Ninians School Board that Bannockburn School headmaster Henry Hogg, 40, and his 45-year-old chief assistant Francis McKay had been called for medical examination to assess their fitness for military service. Both had been passed grade one.

Representations had been made to the Education Department for the retention of both teachers. Officials from the department agreed to call on the Ministry of National Service to retain Mr Hogg in his post but were not minded to make the same recommendation in the case of Mr McKay who had subsequently been called up.

Board members agreed to make up the difference between Mr McKay’s pay as a teacher and what he would earn as a soldier.

*** On a similar subject , the Observer reported the following exchange at a military tribunal in the area: Applicant: “I am not fit for military service.” Tribunal chairman: “Have you been medically examined?” Applicant : “No.” Chairman: “Why.” Applicant: “I ken fine I’m grade one.” (laughter).

*** Stirling’s Post Office was busy 100 years ago delivering ration books across the area. However, a great many householders had indicated to the Food Controller’s office that they wished to change the butcher or grocer from whom they were supposed to purchase groceries.

*** Dunblane Hydropathic had just weeks earlier – 40 years after its construction in 1878 – been taken over by the military and was in the process of becoming a military hospital. Will the place ever become a hydro again, asked the Observer. Many, added the paper, didn’t think so.