Derbyshire Courier, Sat 29 August 1914

MATLOCK BATH REGATTA.
Ideal weather favoured the annual regatta Matlock Bath on Saturday. The event, which had been originally arranged for August 15th, and postponed on account of rain, took part on the Promenade length of the Derwent. The attendance was very fair, and the Rowing Club have no reason to complain. The principle officers were:- Starter, Mr. W. Boden : judges, Mr. Speed and Mr. Daniels ; competitors' steward, Mr. Dearn. The prizes, kindly distributed by Miss E. M. Quilliam, were awarded as follows:-
Double sculling: Miss Donegani and Miss Fowkes: pair oar: Mr. Oliver and Mr. A. Hall : ladies' double sculling: Miss S. Smith and Miss Huddard : gentleman's single sculling: Mr. W. Oliver (first award Mr. Quillam's silver cup): boys' obstacle race: J. Dalton: 100 yards swimming: 1. Mr. S. Fowkes, 2. Mr. E. Wilkinson : water Derby : 1. Mr. A Locke, 2. Mr. W. Mottram: water tournament: Mr. C. Brown, 2. Mr. W. Mottram: swimming and dressing : Mr. L. Locke: obstacle race, senior: Mr. A. L. Locke.

Derbyshire Courier, 5 September 1914

SEVEN SOLDIER SONS.
Sergt. Cocking, of Matlock, for many years the burly commissionaire at Smedley's Hydropathic Establishment, Matlock Bank, has no less than seven sons serving with the colours.

Derbyshire Courier, 5 September 1914

MATLOCK BATH Firm's Offer.
The Directors of the Masson Mill, Matlock Bath, have offered to all men enlisting half wages and a guarantee to take them back into their employ at the end of the war.

The general manager, Mr. Webster, made the announcement to a meeting of the men when he appealed for recruits to Kitchener's Army. The immediate prospects of the Mill were dark, and it would take all their efforts to keep going at half time. Surely British blood would tell, and men would go to war and get full wages than remain idly at home on half. They must show that this part of Derbyshire was not behind in helping to fill up Lord Kitchener's Army, instead of flag waving and shouting they must enrol and emulate the men who at Mons and Charleroi were meeting in the battlefield the finest troops in Europe.

Arkwright & His Cotton Mill in Matlock Bath

Derbyshire Courier, 26 September 1914

School or Drill at Matlock?
Sir, - On reading the notice referring to the Matlock and Matlock Bath Evening Schools most people will agree that for this season at least it would be far better to teach the male students drill and the use of the rifle. The female students could take Red Cross work, etc. It would be interesting to see last season's balance sheet and to ascertain the cost per. student and certificate ; also to work out the percentage of the population attending from the Matlock and Matlock Bath district. An answer to the question "Is the game worth the candle?" would be self evident from facts thus obtained. - Yours, etc.,
RATEPAYER.
Scarthin, Matlock.
23rd September.

Derbyshire Courier, 01 December 1914

From our correspondent, Buxton.
(Article about the troops stationed there)
MATLOCK'S HEFTY LOT.
Scenes great enthusiasm were witnessed Wednesday evening, when a strong contingent from Matlock arrived at headquarters. The Matlock half-company of "E" Company numbers over a hundred brawny young fellows, who seem entirely different from the lads of say Whalley Bridge Company in physique. The latter are none the worse soldiers, however, for being slightly built, and probably it is their environment in a textile manufacturing district which has had its effect on the young soldiers' stature, but the contrast seems to be accentuated when the two companies parade side by side. Among the Matlock fellows who seemed destined for early promotion to non-commissioned rank I noticed Pte. W. H. Rylands, well known for his histrionic talents ; Pte. C. F. White, the only son of Mr. C. F. White, of Matlock Bath, the chief political agent for the Liberal party in West Derbyshire ; Pte Edgar Barnwell, and a host of other prominent Matlock men, all of whom seem to be enjoying their first taste of military life when I dropped into the extensive smoking room of the hotel, where they are billeted.

See the Vernon Lamb Archive

Derbyshire Courier, 26 December 1914

From our correspondent, Buxton.
(Article about the troops stationed there)
Recently a signalling section has been started in connection with the Reserve Battalion, and it is wonderful what keenness the members of it display in their special branch of work. The system used is the well-known semaphore code so commonly practised in the British Navy. The section is commanded by Lieut. O'Farrall, a very popular officer, and the instructor is Sergt. Edwards, of Matlock, who is exceptionally well liked by his men.
Trainee signallers can be seen in the Vernon Lamb Archive. See: 9761 | 9762 |

MATLOCK APPOINTMENTS

Matlock people will be interested know that their own half company of lads are settling down their new work admirably. and have already obtained reputation for good drill. Two their number, I observed this week end have been appointed to staff billets. I refer to Pte. Edgar Barnwell, a son of Mr. H. D. Barnwell, the Matlock jeweller, who has been transferred to the Quartermasters Office, and Pte. W. S. D. Lennox, of Matlock Bath, who now performs some useful work in the Battalion Orderly Room. In civilian life, the latter is articled to Mr. W. Jaffray architect and estate agent, Matlock.

Derby Daily Telegraph, 28 December 1914

A blizzard blew in the Peak of Derbyshire today, there being snow two feet deep in the high land. The telephone service was broken down. Mild weather prevailed at Matlock, but there was snow at Buxton.
Soldiers in the snow at Buxton are pictured in the Vernon Lamb Archive - see the sections dealing with the War.

Manchester Evening News, 5 February 1915

SOLDIERS FOR MATLOCK.
After many attempts to get troops billeted at Matlock Bath the residents were cheered to-day by the billeting officer's (Major Johnson) visit from Aldershot. For the Northern command he has to-day billeted 300 men the Kursaal, another 200 at the Old Pavilion, and 28 officers at the Royal Hotel. These are of the Army Service Corps, and are to arrive next week.

Derbyshire Courier, 13 February 1915

TROOPS FOR MATLOCK
Large Number Expected.
The military authorities have consented to billet troops at Matlock and Matlock Bath. The exact number of men be stationed in the two towns has not yet been made public, but it stated in some local circles that there will be 4,000 from the West Riding. This statement, however, should be accepted with reserve. It is understood that the troops will include a detachment of the Army Services Corps under Major Johnson. One hundred and fifty are to be accommodated at the Royal Hotel Pavilion and 280 at the Kursaal. According to arrangements, the troops were to enter the Matlocks yesterday (Friday).

Derbyshire Courier, 16 February 1915

BEGGING FOR BREAD AND DRIPPING.
Matlock Soldier's Pathetic Letters.
An instance of how the Germans are treating British prisoners of war is furnished by Private G. Booth, of Starkholmes who is in a concentration camp the province of Hanover.

From the prison Booth, who is in the 2nd Sherwood Foresters, has written home pitiful letters in which he asks for bread and dripping to be sent to him. They have, he says, a small loaf of prison bread and a cup of black coffee without milk or sugar every third day. They are so hungry that this is consumed as soon as they get it. Consequently they are without food for three days.

Private Booth's mother is a widow. The appeal was placed by a friend before the committee of the Valentine dance and entertainment, held in the Pavilion, and it is understood that a sum is to be allocated from receipts to the relief of this urgent case. Further, Mr. Rowbottom, manager of the Pavilion, placed the facts before his Cinema audience on Saturday and the statements elicited a response amounting to £1 4s. 6d. which has been handed to Mr. J. W. Boden, confectioner, of Matlock Bath, so that he may send five weekly parcels.

High Peak News, Saturday, 27 February, 1915

(Matlock Bath Section)
DEATH OF AN OFFICER
We regret to record a sad event which has occurred in connection with the Military at Matlock Bath. On Tuesday evening Lieut. Fuller, aged 21, came from Woolwich and complained of illness. The next morning his room had to be broken into, when it was found he was unconscious. Drs. W. Cecil Sharpe and F. Crarer (military local physicians) were summoned, but he died on Wednesday. Deceased belonged to Lichfield. (AA)

A MILITARY MARATHON

On Wednesday the residents and visitors of the Matlocks were keenly interested in a Marathon race arranged for the members of the A.S.C. stationed at Matlock Bath. Over 100 entered the race, which was about five miles, through Matlock Dale, Matlock and Starkholmes. The result was as follows: - 1. Driver Johnson 22 mins ; 2. Driver Kynoch ; 3. Driver P. Simpson ; and 4. Lc. Corpl. Stuart.

Derbyshire Courier, 22 May 1915

Bandsman Turner, Matlock.
Amongst the recently wounded is Bandsman John Edward Turner, younger brother of Mr. J. Turner, surveyor to the Matlock Council, now lies at the Anglo-American Hospital, Boulogne, with a bullet wound in the right side of the body, and it is understood that his condition is satisfactory. Bandsman Turner is in the 2nd Royal Warwicks, having been with the Colours for 13 years. After serving his time he emigrated to Buenos Ayres, but soon after the was broke out, he came to England at his own expense, and re-enlisted in his old regiment. He went out to the front and after taking part in several engagements, was disabled last Sunday morning.

Lieutenant Eastwood.
Amongst the Matlock men wounded is Lieutenant Albert Edward Eastwood, who joined the Liverpool Royal Engineers on 1st January. It is understood that he was struck by a bullet in the thigh. For the last four years prior to his enlistment he has been employed as an assistant manager at the Matlock Gas Works, having taken up his post there in 1910. He came there from the Wallesey Corporation Gas Works at Seacombe. Lieut. Eastwood is a young man, unmarried, and has previously served two years in the Liverpool Territorials.

Derby Daily Telegraph, 17 June 1915

PROPOSED MATLOCKS AMALGAMATION.
The position of affairs with regard to the amalgamation of Matlock and Matlock Bath was explained on Wednesday by Mr. G. H. Key (chairman of the Matlock Bath Council), who entertained the delegates of the Derbyshire Councils Association to tea.

Responding to a vote of thanks proposed by Alderman Moss (Ilkeston), who had expressed hope that the Matlocks would soon adjust their differences and become one borough, Mr. Key said that if the amalgamation was to the interests of all concerned it would be effected. At present amalgamation was not favoured by the majority of the ratepayers in either of the Matlocks. There was a strong feeling for it, and a strong feeling against it, but no doubt it would be brought about some day. As far as he was concerned, the sooner the better.

Derbyshire Courier, 19 June 1915

MATLOCK MAN DIES OF WOUNDS.
Corporal Henstock of the Sixth Shegwood [sic] Foresters.
News has been received at Matlock, of the death from wounds of Corpl. Henstock, reported the other day as wounded. Corpl. Henstock was a resident of Matlock and was employed at Mr. Farnsworth's bleach-works. Only 26 years of age, he was the nephew of Mr. C. W. Henstock, who for 34 years has been head bathman at Smedleys. His older brother, Mr. H.? Henstock, also has had a position there for the last 20 years and another brother, Mr. E. Henstock, is employed at the same establishment. Corpl. Henstock, who went out on 27 February, was the senior corporal of the battalion and held the certificate for the rank of Sergt. obtained in his Territorial camp last year. He belonged to the Territorial Force previously to the war. He was unmarried. The following letter, dated 8 June, has been received by his mother, Mrs. Henstock, from Colonel Goodman, the officer commanding the 6th Sherwood Foresters "I write to express my sympathy of the battalion with you in the loss of your son, Corpl. S. Henstock, who has died of wounds received in action. It will some comfort you realise that he has given his life for his country. You will in due time be informed of the place of his burial".

See Names on Matlock's War Memorial : WW1, Surnames A - J: Samuel Henstock

Derbyshire Courier, 19 June 1915

Mr. Lionel Dare Mordle, son of Mr. F. Dare Mordle, of Matlock Bath, has just been gazetted Second Lieutenant in the 7th Battalion Sherwood Foresters (Robin Hood Rifles) Territorials, from the Felstead School Contingent, Junior Division, Officers' Training Corps.

Derbyshire Courier, 22 June 1915

How Matlock Has Improved.
WAR'S EFFECT ON THE ENGLISH SPAS.
Derbyshire's Dusty Roads.
References to the improvement of Matlock were made in the Town Hall on Saturday at a meeting of the Institute of Municipal and County Engineers.

Mr. D. M. Wildgoose, chairman of the Urban District Council, extended a welcome to the members. He said that though Matlock was small, it was important ; at least the residents thought so. They were becoming more up to date. The time was not remote when a rural or district council, thought anyone, even a common labourer, would do for a surveyor providing he had common sense. With all due respect to these men it was necessary in these days of science that a surveyor should be up to date in sanitary matters. They were trying to make the town what it ought to be, and those who were privileged to visit it could see what rapid strides had been made. They had improved a park and bought up all the important corners so that they could plant them to make the town more beautiful, and they did what they could to the roads.

Although it had been thought their sanitation well nigh perfect a new scheme had been introduced and they hoped that the health of the district, never bad, would be better even than in the past. Their rateable value was not large, and they had laid out their money to the best advantage, conserving the beauty spots of the place, and they heard and read of Matlock all over.

More Visitors Than Ever.

In spite of the cloud hanging over the country Matlock had not suffered. Indeed they were in a better position, for more visitors were staying there than in any year. Perhaps visitors looked upon the Matlocks as well protected by their position from air raids. While fully sensible of the terrible war and the large amount of sacrifice in life and resources yet he would be sanguine enough to believe all would come right. In patriotism Matlock shone out, having sent 400 men to do their work and his, further, having subscribed money lavishly. ...

Derbyshire Courier, 29 June 1915

MATLOCK MAN TWICE WOUNDED.
Intimation has been received at Matlock this week that Private T. White, of the 1st Wiltshire Regiment, has been twice wounded. After the first injury he returned to the trenches, but soon afterwards was again wounded. He has been invalided home and is at present in hospital. A brother of his, Private E. White, 6th Notts. and Derby Territorials, is suffering from serious shrapnel wounds in both legs. He is, however, making good progress towards recovery.

Derbyshire Courier, 3 July 1915

ANOTHER MATLOCK LOSS.
Lance-Corporal Fentem Killed.
Mr. and Mrs. T. Fentem, of Matlock, were notified on Tuesday that their son, Lance-Corporal F. S. Fentem, had been killed in action. Deceased, who was 27 years of age, joined the Ist Sherwood Foresters seven years ago last October. He had been at the front virtually since the beginning of the war. He spent five day's leave at home last summer.

The intimation was in the form of a letter from Lance-Corporal Lee, which reads as follows: "I sadly write to inform you of the death of your son, who was killed outright by a shell, along with two more poor souls. It happened at about 5p.m. on 19 June. The whole company send you their deepest sympathy on the loss of your beloved one, for he was liked by all".

[Lance Corporal Fentem, Service No:10227, died on 19 June 1915. He was buried at Neuve-Chapelle British Cemetery, Pas de Calais. His parents lived on Underwood Terrace, Smedley Street. His name is shown on Darley Dale's War Memorial]

Derbyshire Courier, 13 July 1915

CRACK SHOT WOUNDED.
Sergeant G. W. Knowles (Matlock), one of the crack shots of Derbyshire, has been wounded in the leg while serving with the 6th Sherwood Foresters. He is a well known Bisley winner, and member of the Derbyshire Bisley Club, and of rifle clubs at Derby and Matlock.

Derbyshire Courier, 14 September 1915

HEAVY TOLL ON MATLOCK.
Two Soldiers Killed and Two Wounded.
News has been received of the death of Private Herbert Checkley, who enlisted a year ago at the age of 18, and fell about 9 August at the Dardenelles. Private Checkley, who before his death was employed at Smedley's, was the son of Mrs. Checkley. a widow, of Lime Grove Avenue, Matlock.

Yet another death from wounds of a Matlock man is reported. The victim is Private Owen Bunting, son of Mr. and Mrs. James Bunting, of the Green, Matlock. Private Bunting, who was 22, had enlisted at the beginning of the war, and died of injuries received on 11 August. Before joining the army he had been employed by Messrs. Orme and Co.

A letter received by the mother of Private Edward Beard, of the Sherwood Foresters, at the Dardenelles, states that he has been wounded in the leg and hand by shrapnel. His brother writes that the wounded soldier is progressing satisfactorily. At the outbreak of war Private Beard was a painter at Matlock.

Private J. Mills wrote his mother, on Saturday, that Private A. Poulteney, of Matlock, has been wounded in the leg at the Dardenelles.

See Names on Matlock's War Memorial : WW1, Surnames A - J | Names on Matlock's War Memorial : WW1, Surnames K - W

Derby Daily Telegraph, 14 September 1915

MATLOCK URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL.
Mr. D. M. Wildgoose presided last night. _ Mr. J. Turner, the town surveyor, reported to the Council that income from the cable tramway for the month August reached the highest point on record since the tramway was given to Matlock late Sir George Newnes, a native of the district. That was 17 years ago, and the surveyor added that this prosperity was due, no doubt, to the increased number of visitors coming to Matlock this season. The tramway deficit, which had recently been about £1,000, was reported to have fallen to £30.

Derbyshire Courier, 18 September 1915

MATLOCK MEN WOUNDED AND MISSING.
Motor Transport Driver T. Bowler, in a communication to his father, Mr. Thomas Bowler, of Matlock, says that he has been wounded, and is in hospital in France. He writes that he is going on all right, and hopes to be out again soon. Bowler was a motor driver at Matlock when the war broke out. News came to Mrs. Beard, of Matlock Bank, that the injuries to her son, Private W. E. Beard, are more serious that was expected. He has landed in England, and has lost his right leg and his right arm. No further news has yet come to hand of Private A. Gregory, who was reported as missing in the Dardenelles on 9 August. The letter relating to Private W. E. Beard states that he is very cheerful.

See Names on Matlock's War Memorial : WW1, Surnames A - J

Derbyshire Courier, 16 November 1915

MATLOCK MAN WOUNDED.
Private Joseph Travis, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thos. Trueman Travis, of Greenhill Terrace, Matlock, is now lying in hospital at Alexandria, having been wounded by a bullet in the thigh at Gallipoli. It is stated that his wound is not of a very serious character. Four letters have been received from him posted before he was wounded. In these he speaks of hard and incessant fighting in the trenches. Before his enlistment in the 9th Sherwood Foresters he was working as a carter for Mr. Furniss of Matlock. His brother [is this brother-in-law?], Driver Wm. Furniss of the Royal Field Artillery, enlisted at the same time, both being members of a contingent of about 40 local men who joined at the beginning of the war. Driver Travis formerly worked for Mr. Hand, of Matlock, driving the 'bus between Matlock and Cromford. His two brothers-in-law, Troopers Whittaker and Boden, are serving in the Yeomanry.

Derbyshire Courier, 11 December 1915

MATLOCK CASUALTY
Mr. and Mrs. Clarke, of the Constabulary, Matlock, have received official notice to the effect that their third son, Lance Corporal Reginald H. Clarke, is lying seriously ill in hospital at Goza, near Cairo. All the four of Mr. and Mrs. Clarke's sons are serving their country.

Derby Daily Telegraph, 14 December 1915

MATLOCK COUNCIL.
At the monthly meeting of the Matlock Council on Monday night Mr. D. M. Wildgoose in the chair, it was reported that the reduction in street lighting on the ground of economy had been abandoned and the full service resumed. Mr. Drabble characterised the reduction of the service as mis-directed economy. - The cable tramway traffic was again stated to have increased over the record of a year ago. - The reply for the request for troops to be billeted at Matlock was that no troops are available at the present, but that the claim of Matlock had not been lost sight of.

Derbyshire Courier, 18 December 1915

MATLOCK BATH N.C.O. WINS THE D.C.M.
Reward of Courage and Efficiency.
Sergeant Maurice Limb, Matlock Bath, has been awarded the D.C.M. for his courage and efficiency in carrying out a difficult operation.

After heavy day's shelling by the enemy he crept by night into the German trenches to see what they had done and returned with observations for the making of plans. In these he helped his officers so that they were able to arrange a highly successful night attack in which not a man of ours was lost.

Further, the undermining movements of the enemy were completely frustrated.

Sergeant Limb, who is the son of Mrs. Limb of Masson Terrace, has come unscathed through the battles of Loos, Ypres, Hooge and other engagements.

Derby Daily Telegraph, Friday 31 December 1915

DERBYSHIRE COUNTY CRICKETER KILLED ACTION.
Mr. and Mrs. Newcombe, of Old Bank House, Matlock, received letter on Thursday announcing that their youngest son, Lieutenant Charles Neal Newcombe, the 7th Battalion the K.O.Y.L.I. (7th King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry) had been killed in action.

The deceased officer, who was 24 years of age, was well known in sporting circles in Chesterfield where his parents resided until 12 months ago. An all-round cricketer, he had played with Chesterfield, Creswell and Mansfield, and when only 18 years of age he was included in the Derbyshire team against Yorkshire at Chesterfield. This was in the season 1910. As a footballer Lieutenant Newcombe did duty at inside left with Chesterfield and afterwards with Rotherham County.

At the outbreak of war he joined the Nottingham City Battalion as a private. Later he was transferred to the Sherwood Foresters and became attached to the K.O.Y.L.I upon receiving his commission. It was only a fortnight before his death that he became full lieutenant.

Deceased was apprenticed to mining engineering in the Chesterfield district, under Mr. J. P. Houfton, the managing director of the Bolsover Colliery Company.

A letter from Lieutenant-colonel V. A. Fowler stated that Lieut. Newcombe was killed on Monday, being shot through the throat and dying instantly. "I am sorry indeed to lose such a good officer, who was always keen and reliable. He was such a splendid sample of a man, and all his influence with the men was for good".

The Newcombes were listed at Old Bank House in Kelly's1916 Directory

Derby Daily Telegraph, 13 January 1916

CAVENDISH SCHOOL, MATLOCK.
A THOROUGHLY EFFICIENT BOARDING SCHOOL for BOYS. - Since the reorganisation of the School at Easter, 1911, the number of boys has increased to over three times its original number. Modern buildings, woodwork and engineering workshop, laboratory, rifle range, excellent playing fields. Strong staff.
Fully illustrated Prospectus from the Headmaster -
E. V. BYNNES-KINGSLEY. A.C.P.

See Schools in Earlier Times (Former Private Schools)

Derby Daily Telegraph, 18 January 1916

Grand Master James Shaw, of the Devonshire Lodge, Matlock, presided over the annual conference of the Unity Oddfellows, held (Matlock) on Monday.

Derby Daily Telegraph, 20 January 1916

WARNING TO PIGEON FANCIERS.
At Matlock, on Wednesday, under the Defence the Realm Act, William Greaves, bathman, was fined 40s. for removing two pigeons without a permit.

Supt. Clarke told the Bench that defendant wished send two pigeons to a show, and came to him. He told him he required the necessary permit from the secretary of the show. However, the defendant had not got it, and sent the pigeons to the show.
Defendant said he was very sorry. These were exhibition and not racing birds, and he did not think it was necessary to have a permit.

Derby Daily Telegraph, 24 January 1916

SUDDEN DEATH AT MATLOCK BATH.
Mr. Fred Ogden, lessee of the Fishpond Hotel, Matlock Bath, fell down in the kitchen on Saturday, and died before medical aid could reach him. Deceased, who formerly held a licensed house Sheffield, was about 50 years age. Mr. Ogden was well-known as an angler.

Fish Pond Hotel, 1910 (one of several images)

Derbyshire Courier, 8 February 1916

At the Matlock Police Court the following special constables were sworn in: Ellis Martindale (Bonsall), Chas. Birch (Matlock), W. Read (Cromford). Broom (Matlock), H. Challand (Matlock), G. H.. Key (Matlock Bath), and J. Smith (Matlock).

Derby Daily Telegraph, 17 February 1916

REFUGEES' VISIT TO MATLOCK.
A WARNING.
Two Belgian refugees, named Leon and Klein, of West Hampstead, London, were charged at Matlock on Wednesday with failing to give notice to the registration officer of change of address. The son appeared and pleaded guilty. - Supt. Clarke said the defendants came from London to a Matlock hydro without giving notice, and went back to London without serving the notice. He believed it was a mistake. - The Bench ordered the payment of costs, 5s. each, and warned the refugees that the law must be obeyed, although the English had every sympathy with them.

The Vernon Lamb Archive has pictures of Belgian Refugees. See: 5046 | 5065 |
Also fundrasing for their relief See: 5173 | 5174 |

Derby Daily Telegraph, 19 April 1916

FLOODS IN THE PEAK
There were big floods in the Peak dales on Tuesday. Continuous heavy rains all night washed all the snow from the hills, where it had lain for six weeks. ... An almost unprecedented rise took place in the River Derwent at Matlock on Tuesday. Near the Switchback Railway at Matlock Bath the water was out over the footpath the Lovers' Walk, and was still rising.

See Flooding in the Matlocks

High Peak News, Saturday, 22 April, 1916

MATLOCK.
An official report this week confirms the statement made years ago when the Derwent Valley Water Board was being formed, that the introduction of the scheme would prevent floods in the Wye and the Derwent. This winter has proved the forecast to be a fact in actual experience. For instance, the great snows passed off without the rivers rising materially.

High Peak News, Saturday, 29 April, 1916

THE DUCHESS OF DEVONSHIRE AND WAR AGRICULTURE
We learn from Miss Marsden-Smedley of Lea Green that the re-organisation of agriculture owing to the war is of utmost importance, indeed the food supply of the country depends on it. While the prices of foodstuff continues to rise, it is sad to hear of land going out of cultivation owing to the farmers being unable to obtain labour. A meeting is to be held at the Matlock Town Hall on Saturday April 29th when this important question will be discussed. Her Grace The Duchess of Devonshire has consented to preside, and among other able speakers will be Mr. Jas. Oakes, Chairman of the County War Agricultural Committee and Mr. Davies, the organiser for the Board of Agriculture.

Derbyshire Courier, 16 May 1916

MATLOCK MEN WOUNDED IN DUBLIN.
Brief news has been received in Matlock that Private Alwyn Stewart Buckman, postmaster at Matlock, was wounded during the street fighting in Dublin. Private Buckman, who belongs to one of the battalions of the Sherwood Foresters, is now lying at Monkston House Auxiliary Hospital, Co. Dublin. Prior to the war he was an clerk at the Buxton branch of Parr's Bank. The parents have received a letter from Private Buckman stating that he is in hospital, but giving no details as the nature of his injuries.

Private Robert Gregory, a son of Mr. Gregory, of Bank Road, Matlock, was wounded in the Dublin insurrection by an insurgent sniper, who shot him in the knee with a small shot fired from a sporting gun. Private Gregory is only 19 years of age, and has been with the forces since September, 1914. He belongs to one of the battalions of the Sherwoods.

Belper News, 16 June 1916

LUMSDALE MAN WOUNDED.
Lance Corpl. Harry Thompson, of the Sherwoods, who before the war was employed at the Lumsdale Bleach Works. In a letter to his mother he said he was supervising a squad of men digging in the earth to construct a "dug-out" when the Germans must have seen them, for a shell burst close by, wounding him in the ankle and the leg rather seriously. A Lumsdale comrade, Pte. Ernest Crowder, helped carry him to the dressing station, and he was operated on in Rouen Hospital. He is now a patient at Bristol Military Hospital.

Derbyshire Courier, 24 June 1916

MATLOCK TEACHER'S SHOCKING WOUNDS.
Particulars have reached Matlock of shocking wounds received in action by Rifleman Isaac Knight, King's Royal Rifles, a former Matlock schoolteacher. It appears that a heavy shell burst in Rifleman Knight's dug-out, blowing off one of his feet and a portion of the other. He is 23 years of age and a native of Widnes, but had been employed at the Matlock Council School for about eleven months before he joined up in July 1915. Whilst in Matlock he resided with Mrs. Wildgoose in Wellington Street.

Derbyshire Courier, 27 June 1916

MATLOCK BATH MAN WOUNDED
Private Herbert Pickford, Durham Light Infantry, of Matlock Bath been wounded in the left shoulder and admitted to the 22nd General Hospital in France. He has written, however, to his aunt, Mrs. Bentley, of Primrose Cottage, Dale Road, Matlock Bath), saying that he is progressing. Before the war he was employed by the English Sewing Cotton Co. at Masson Mills, Matlock Bath. His brother Sapper Richard Pickford, Royal Engineers, was killed last December. In his last letter Private Pickford mentions that some time ago he met Lance-Corpl. John Else, R.E., who was reported killed in this journal only last week, and comments on the fact that he had just been promoted.

See Names on Matlock's War Memorial : WW1, Surnames A - J | Names on Matlock Bath's War Memorial |

Sheffield Independent, 8 September 1916

MATLOCK RECTOR BEREAVED.
The death has occurred at Matlock of Miss Eleanor Kewley, sister Canon J. W. Kewley, rector of Matlock, with whom she resided. Miss Kewley, who was her 80th year, was indefatigable church worker, and her demise is a great blow to the church locally. The funeral is fixed for Monday [11 September].

See Canon Kewley & His Sisters

Derbyshire Courier, 30 September 1916

DERBYSHIRE MEN WHO HAVE TAKEN PART IN THE BIG ADVANCE.
LCE.-CPL. A. E. MILLER Formerly of Matlock (Killed).
[Lance Corporal A. E. Miller was in the 13th Battalion, Canadian Infantry, Service No. 427798. He was killed on 4 Sep 1916 and is commemorated at Vimy Ridge, Pas de Calais.]

High Peak News, Saturday, Feb 10, 1917

(Matlock Bath Section)
SPLENDID RED CROSS ENTERTAINMENT
On the evening of the first inst., the Pavilion was packed with a large number of people from the district to enable a substantial sum to be raised for the Red Cross Fund and for the fund for the Derbyshire Soldiers Comforts.

The Red Cross Committee and officers had the entertainment in hand and deserve every praise for their splendid work. The committee included the following ladies: Mrs. Askwith, Miss Adams, Mrs. G. Doxey, Mrs. Jacques, Mrs. Jaffrey, Miss G. H. Key, Mrs. W. E. Smith, and Miss Walker; Mrs. Durbridge and Miss Lymn were the hon. secretaries and Mr. Tom Coates and Mr. Hetherington the hon. treasurers. The programme for the evening was three fold, viz. : Dance, whist drive and cinema.

The M.C.'s for the dancing were Messrs. G. Walters, Joseph Oliver and E. Randle ; for the whist, Messrs. H. C. Buckman and W. E. Smith; and for the cinema, Mr. J. F. Donegani and Mr. R. Tinti ; at the gates were Messrs. Tom Coates and H. Hetherington.

The Ladies' Committee looked after the buffet, ably assisted by Mr. Fearn and Mr. J. Bates. Other ladies assisting besides those on the committee mentioned ... Misses Key, Mosley, Swain etc. ... £40 was raised ...
(AA)

Derbyshire Courier, 17 February 1917

MATLOCK SOLDIER WOUNDED.
Private Norman Handley, Sherwood Foresters, son of Mr. and Mrs. Handley, the Dimple, Matlock, is lying in hospital in France wounded in the arm and back. In a letter which reached his parents last week-end, he says he will be in bed for some time to come. He is 19 years old, and has been in the Army about six months. His brother, Private John Handley, who is not yet 21, has been twice wounded. He expects to return to the front shortly.

See Names on Matlock's War Memorial : WW1, Surnames A - J: John William Handley

Derbyshire Times and Chesterfield Herald, 5 May 1917

MATLOCK BATH OFFICER WOUNDED
Information has reached Mr David Parker of "Beech Cliffe," Matlock Bath, that his son Second-Lieut. B. N. Parker, Sherwood Foresters, was wounded in the leg and foot, when his battalion were preparing to attack the German lines. The injuries include a compound fracture of bones in the foot. Lieut. Parker, who is 23 years of age, was gazetted in August, 1915, and went to the Front in the following July. Before joining up he was assistant master at Bury St. Edmund's Secondary School, and previous to taking up this appointment he had studied in Paris. Lieut. Parker is a son in law of Mr. Henry Marsden, of Matlock.

Derbyshire Courier, 12 May 1917

MATLOCK AND DISTRICT CASUALTIES.
Amongst the officers in hospital in France is Second Lieutenant Edward H. Dakin, son of Mr. and Mrs. S. Dakin, of Smedley Street, Matlock, who has been wounded in the thigh. Lieutenant Dakin, who is a bombing instructor to a battalion of the Leicestershires, joined the London Scottish, and was severely gassed during the exploits of that regiment in France. After a long period in England, he was gazetted second lieutenant in the Leicestershire in August, 1915. For some time after this he gave instruction in the bombing in England, but returned to France last January.

Derbyshire Times and Chesterfield Herald, 26 May 1917

MATLOCK BROTHERS WOUNDED.
The five soldier sons of Mrs Farmer, of "Grassmere" Matlock, are well known and admired by most residents of Matlock, who will regret to hear that this week notifications have been received to the effect that two them have been wounded.

The first is Second-Lieut. J. B. Farmer, Sherwood Foresters, respecting whom the War Office have forwarded the following telegram:- Lieut. Farmer was admitted to the 8th General Hospital, Rouen, on May 18th suffering from a severe gunshot wound in the right shoulder. He is making satisfactory progress. Lieutenant Farmer, who is 31 years of age and single, joined the colours at Liverpool, and has been to France on two separate occasions.

Mrs. Farmer has also been notified that her fourth soldier son, Pioneer-Chemist James Farmer, Royal Engineers, has been admitted to an Australian Hospital in France suffering from the effects of being gassed and a wound in the right hand. He is 22 years of age and single, and was employed at Leeds before joining up. He served an apprenticeship with Mr. A. E. Davis, chemist, of Matlock.

Derbyshire Times and Chesterfield Herald, 26 May 1917

MATLOCK QUARRYMAN WOUNDED.
News has reached Mr. White of Imperial Road, Matlock, to the effect that his son, Pte. Percy White, Sherwood Foresters, is in hospital at Perth suffering from a wound in the leg. Pte. White, who is a single man, was formerly employed by Messrs. Josiah Smart and Sons' Limestone Quarries, Matlock, and he left there on April 25th, 1916, to join the colours.

Derbyshire Times and Chesterfield Herald, 9 June 1917

Splendid news has been received by Mrs. Thomas of Matlock, regarding her husband Lance Corpl. William Herbert Thomas, Yorks and Lancs. Two months ago, he was reported killed, but a post card has now been received from him, although not in his own handwriting, stating that he is a prisoner of war at a German internment camp, and is all right except for a wound in the hand. Prior to the war he was employed by Messrs. Leonards, boot retailers, and managed their Matlock shop.

Derbyshire Courier, 16 June 1917

MATLOCK CASUALTIES
A letter received from the Rev. J. Wilson, an Army chaplain in France, by Mr. and Mrs. Ezra Gregory, of Matlock Town, points to the fact that their son, Private Ezra Gregory, South Staffs has made the supreme sacrifice. The letter reads:-"You will have heard by this [time] of your son's death out here. I buried him in a single grave in a large British cemetery here. I sympathise for you in your great sorrow." Up to the present the parents have had no additional information as to how their son met his death. Private Gregory, who was 30 years of age and single, had been nearly 12 months at the front. He was employed at Matlock before he enlisted. Mr. and Mrs. Gregory have four other sons at the front as follows:- Private Joseph Thomas Gregory, Trench Mortar Battery, France ; Private Ernest Gregory, with the transport section in Ireland ; Private William Gregory, South Staffs., whose whereabouts is unknown, and Private Charles Wilfred Gregory, Territorial Reserve.

See Names on Matlock's War Memorial : WW1, Surnames A - J: Ezra Gregory

Derby Daily Telegraph, 21 June 1917

Died of Wounds 241134 J. Dale, Gratton Moor, Matlock (Sherwood Foresters).

[Pte. Dale was born at and resided at Winster. He enlisted at Matlock and had died on 20 May]

Derbyshire Courier, 23 June 1917

CASUALTIES.
Mrs. Thomas Atkins, of Church Street, Matlock Town, has received information that the names of two of her sons are in the casualty lists. Private John Thomas Atkins is in hospital in France suffering from the effects of being gassed. He is 33, married, and lived in Matlock Town before joining up two and a half years ago. Private W. Harold Atkins is in the 11th Stationary Hospital, France, having been wounded in the face by gunshot. A letter from the soldier himself says that he has lost an eye. Private Atkins, who joined up at the outbreak of war, is 24 years of age and unmarried. Both he and his brother were employed at Mr. W. Shaw's quarry in pre-war days.

High Peak News, Saturday, 4 August, 1917

DEATH OF MR. C. HATFIELD
The death has occurred at Matlock of Mr Charles Hatfield of Sheffield who was 75 years of age. He retired from his business of hairdresser more than 20 years ago, and spent much of his leisure time in world travel. Africa he knew like a book. India he had travelled from end to end. He had penetrated the wilds of Canada, studied the ancient civilisation of China, and, on their own carpets, discussed with the grandees of Japan the problems and ambitions of that Power. (HH)

High Peak News, Saturday, 4 August, 1917

LOCAL MILITARY WEDDING
LIEUT. FRED JACQUES - MISS COLEBOURN
Considerable interest was taken in Matlock Bath and Derby on Wednesday in the marriage of representatives of two of the best known families of Matlock Bath and Derby. The bride was Miss H. M. (Mollie) Colebourn, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Colebourn, of Old Bank House, Iron Gate, Derby, and the bridegroom Lieut. William Fred Jacques, of the A.S.C., son of Mr. and Mrs. Jacques, of Danbury Lodge, Matlock Bath. The ceremony took place at St. Alkmund's Church, Derby, in the presence of a large assemblage of relatives and friends.

The officiating clergyman was the Ven. the Archdeacon of Derby. The bride was attended by one bridesmaid, and the best man was brother of the bridegroom, Lieut. Lewis Jacques, who came from Sunderland for the event. Lieut. Lewis Jacques has seen much active service at the French front with the Sherwoods and is home in England after two years in the trenches.

The bride was given away by her father. After the ceremony there was a reception at the home of the bride's parents, and later, the bride and bridegroom left for Llandudno for the honeymoon. The presents were very numerous and costly. The bridegroom is the son of the well-known cricketer, Mr. W. Jacques, and the bridegroom himself earned distinction in sports, both at and after school. The bride and bridegroom have everyone's best wishes for their future happiness.
(HH)

Belper News, 10 August 1917

MATLOCK MAN DANGEROUSLY ILL
Dated July 28th, a telegram to Mrs Crowder, Cavendish Road, Matlock, states that her son, Pte. James Crowder, Sherwood Foresters, is dangerously ill in France. Later information, however, shows that has reached the Second Western General Hospital, Manchester. It seems that Pte. Crowder has never properly recovered from several wounds he received three or four months ago, and he has been in hospital in France for a considerable time. Joining the Sherwood Foresters in the days of the Group System, he went to Ireland at the time of the rebellion, and was subsequently drafted across to France. He is 24 years of age and single, and in civil life was assistant to the chef at Smedley's Hydro. His brother, Pte. George Crowder, of the Lincolns, was killed in action on July 1st of last year. Our readers will remember that at the time of the evacuation of the Dardanelles we published a graphic description of the fighting on the peninsular by Private G. Crowder, who had been invalidated home with frostbitten feet.

Derbyshire Courier, 11 August 1917

CASUALTIES.
Private John Alsop, son of John Alsop, steward at the Matlock Conservative Club, of Pope Carr, Matlock, has sent a brief note his parents (written with his left hand) stating that he has been wounded in several places in the right side, and that he is now in the St. John's ambulance Brigade Hospital, France. Private Alsop, who is 26 years of age and single, had been in France before he joined the colours, having been engaged on painting huts there for soldiers. He enlisted about 12 months ago, and has been in France as a soldier for several months.

Birmingham Daily Post, 03 September 1917

Train Runs into Platelayers.
While a gang of platelayers were at work yesterday in Doveholes tunnel, on the Midland railway, Manchester and London main line, a goods tram ran into the gangers and Enos Mycrofts, single (18), of Matlock, was killed. Arnold Poundall, single (17), of Bonsall, has since died, and George Gilbert, single (18), of Bonsall, escaped with a scalp wound.

Enos had tried to join the army. See his brother's entry (Mycock, Isaac) on Matlock's War Memorial

Derby Daily Telegraph, 20 September 1917

MILITARY MEDALS FOR LOCAL SOLDIERS
The "London Gazette" of Wednesday night states that the following have been awarded the Military Medal:-
... Lance-corporal P. Knowles, Notts, and Regiment (Matlock) ...

[This was Percy Knowles, Reg. No.240935, whose name was Gazetted in the Supplement on 14 September 1917]

High Peak News, Saturday, 22 September, 1917

(Matlock Section)
Food Control work is being quite systematically done at the Town Hall by the Secretary, Mr J. W. Bradbury. A room has been set apart in the lobby on the ground floor and here, at fixed hours, Mr. Bradbury sits to do business.
(CB)

* * * *

(Matlock Section)
Messrs. Orme and Co. were the sugar distributors this week for jam-making. We understand the applications totalled 130 tons. Of course the quantity had to be reduced - about a fourth is being distributed to the applicants who are fruit growers.
(CB)

* * * *

(Matlock Bath Section)
Gloves. The new industry at the Pavilion opened for business on Monday last, when a dozen girls started work. The number of employees will be increased ere long to about 40. This is splendid news for our town. What has always been wanted has been some kind of a perennial money getter for the working people of the district. The summer season is always assured.
(CB)

Matlock Bath's Glove Factory

Derbyshire Times and Chesterfield Herald, 6 October 1917

MATLOCK MILITARY MEDALLISTS.
On Thursday, Mrs G. N. Else, Wellfield Matlock, received information that her son, Joseph Walker, attached to the Tanks, had been awarded the Military Medal, for a reason which, he says, he will communicate when he comes home. Gunner Else [presumably Gunner Walker], who now is now convalescent, after having been wounded, has been France twelve months.
Private George Else, step-brother to Gunr. Walker, who is in the Lewis Gun Section of the Sherwood Foresters, has been recommended for the Military Medal for some time. He is also convalescent.

See Names on Matlock's War Memorial : WW1, Surnames A - J: George Else

Derbyshire Times and Chesterfield Herald, 13 October 1917

Few soldiers have had such an adventurous life as Pte. Robert Henry Beard, son of Mrs. Beard of Cavendish Road, Matlock. For the fourth time he has been wounded, on this occasion in the latest push, being blown up and injured by a shell. In a letter to his mother written at a casualty clearing station, he says: "I came through all right, but one of Fritz's shells dropped near me, and I was knocked out temporarily. I was one of a party who volunteered to bring the wounded in (stretcher bearing). This has been the hottest 'do' I have been in, and that is something, I reckon." Later on in the communication Pte. Beard staes that he received a mauling, and further information points to the fact that he was also blown up by the shell. Pte. Beard joined up with his brother, ex-Pte. Wlliam Beard, in the first days of the war and they went to the Dardenelles together. As is well-known to Matlock people, it was here that Pte. William Beard lost his right leg and arm, and his brother carried him to a place of safety under heavy fire. Private Robert Beard had dysentry twice, malaria fever, and he has also been four times wounded, including once during the heavy Somme fighting last year. He is a single man and 28 years of age.

See Names on Matlock's War Memorial : WW1, Surnames A - J: William Edward Beard

Derbyshire Times and Chesterfield Herald, 13 October 1917

ILL IN HOSPITAL.
Sergt. W. Moreton, Matlock

Derbyshire Courier, 20 October 1917

Matlock Officer's Appointment.
Amongst a number of Army appointments contained in the "London Gazette" of 12 October was the following - "Headquarters of Administrative Services and Departments. Quay Superintendent (graded for purposes of pay as staff lieutenant first class), Second Lieutenant G. W. Knowles, Sherwood Foresters, and to retain his temporary rank while so employed". Lieutenant Knowles is the well known Matlock rifle shot and a Volunteer and Territorial of many years standing. In civil life he was employed on the clerical staff of the Midland Railway Company at Derby. He has been wounded twice, and received his commission from the ranks.

[Supplement to London Gazette dated 16 Oct 1917. G. W. Knowles was Godfrey Walston Knowles, who was later a Captain in the Royal Engineers - see 1901 census entry]

Derbyshire Courier, 20 October 1917

Matlock Casualties.
Private Harold Hargreaves, K.O.Y.L.I., son of Mrs. Hargreaves, of Church Street, Matlock, is reported dangerously wounded in the leg, and is in hospital, in France. He was employed by Mr. Phillips, hairdresser, of Crown Square, Matlock, before enlisting. His brother, Private Joseph Hargreaves, is in France with the Lincolns.

Private J. W. Richards, son of Mrs. Richards, of Smedley Street, Matlock, has been gassed and is in hospital at leicester. It seems that he was buried by a bursting shell, and was gassed after being dug out. Private Richards is 25 years of age, and has been in the employ of Messrs. F. H. Drabble for some years.

Derbyshire Times, 10 November 1917

MATLOCK AND DISTRICT CASUALTIES.
Mr. William Thompson, blacksmith, of Matlock, has had bad news concerning one of his two sons. One, Private Ernest Thompson, Sherwood Foresters, now serving with a transport unit, has been severely kicked by a horse, and is in hospital suffering from injuries to the arm. He was one of the first of Kitchener's Army to go to France, where he has been close upon three years, during which time he has had one leave. Another son, Private Percy Thompson, Royal Scots, is in hospital, but his father is not aware of the cause of his illness. A third son, Private William Thompson, is fighting in France.
See the family in the 1901 census.

Derbyshire Times, 10 November 1917

MATLOCK AND DISTRICT CASUALTIES.
Private M. Thompson, Sherwood Foresters, of Dale Road, Matlock, has been wounded. He was a porter on the Midland Railway at Matlock before he joined the Army this year.
See: Matlock Station Staff, 1911 - 1966, K - Y

Derbyshire Times, 8 December 1917

MATLOCK MILITARY MEDALLIST.
Artificer Corpl. F. J. Pell. R.F.A.. son of Mr. and Mrs. Pell, of Kingsbridge Terrace, Matlock, has been awarded the Military Medal for gallant conduct in assisting to save the guns of his battery. Corpl. Pell, a Leicester man, had the award pinned to his tunic by the Mayor of that town. He is 23 years of age, and has been with the colours since the commencement of the war.

Derbyshire Times, 22 December 1917

MATLOCK AND DISTRICT CASUALTIES.
Both the soldier sons of Harry Ballington, nurseryman, of Matlock Bank, are now in the casualty lists. He has just had news that his eldest son Corpl. H. Ballington, Sherwood Foresters, was wounded at the end of last month. A few weeks ago we recorded the fact that Corpl. Ballington's brother, Sergt. G. E. Ballington, was severely gassed, and he is still in hospital and is making good progress. From later information it appears that Corpl. Ballington has now reached a Manchester hospital and is making good progress. Both Mr. Ballington's sons joined up in October 1914, and prior to this assisted their father in his nursery work.
See: the 1901 census

Belper News, 28 December 1917

Matlock in 1917. Outstanding Events in the District
When the writer compiled this column last year there was a general feeling that we should have settled down to enjoy the fruits of an honourable victory over our enemies and the blessing of a lasting peace, but unforeseen circumstances, notably the revolution in Russia, have upset all our calculations, and as the year goes our we find ourselves still in the throes of war and with a knowledge that must be faced that we have before us many months of anxiety, suffering and sacrifice.

As in all other places, Matlock has been chiefly concerned by the war and matters relating to its prosecution. In the early days of the year, the War-Savings movement was given great impetus by local campaign, which resulted in the formation Matlock War Savings Committee, under which small associations sprang up at the various places of business, hydros, clubs, etc., until there were twenty one of them. The membership has gradually increased until it has now reached the figure of 1,300, and the rate of payments equals £250 per month. No-one took a more active part in the work than Mr. A. Saxton, whose lamented death occurred just as he saw his organising efforts in this respect crowned with success. He was a greatly missed man, for his fearless attitude on the Council and Tribunal, and his keen insight into all questions of local government, made his presence at the deliberations of the local authorities a great asset.

The only new formations in the town during the year related to the Food Control scheme, and the inception of an entirely fresh industry. With regard to the former, the work commenced with the now discarded sugar scheme of August, and it is no exaggeration to say that the labours have steadily increased since that date, new orders relating to every description of foodstuff being thrust upon the Committee for execution. The committee were fortunate in choosing Mr. J. W. Bradbury as their executive officer, and his resignation is much to be regretted, for there is no doubt that he will be most difficult to replace.
The industry mentioned above refers to that instituted by Mr. Broome at the Victoria Hall and the Derwent Mills - an up-to-date hosiery factory and warehouse, which is assuming large proportions, a fact which we are pleased to note, for Matlock badly needs additional industries. Mr. Broome is also manufacturing goods of which enemy countries formerly had more than their fair share.

The government of the town during the twelve months calls for little comment. The continuance of the war has made it impossible for any further improvements to be embarked upon, but there are several matters to which our Council will have to devote their energies once hostilities cease. One fact may be mentioned. The summer season, despite the drawbacks of the times, was without doubt the most successful the town has ever experienced, but the Hall Leys was not laid out to the usual extent. Only three tennis courts were provided instead of six, and there is no doubt that more money would have been taken and disappointment amongst visitors avoided if the games had been encouraged as usual. Matlock Moor Farm, belonging to the Council, was completely gutted by fire this summer. The building was fully insured, and the claim has been met by the insurance company. It must be added that Mr. D. Hurd, having completed his duties with the Y.M.C.A. has returned to the town and resumed his seat on the Council and Tribunal.

Religious appointments in the town are occupied for the most part by the same gentlemen, but the Rev. J. R. Rushton has succeeded the Rev. E. S. Rowe as assistant minister in the Wesleyan Circuit, and the Rev. G. I. J. Cushing has taken a similar position in the Wesleyan Methodist Circuit, in succession to the Rev. D. Godfrey.

During the year Matlock has lost one of its most prominent residents in the person of Mr. F. H. Drabble, founder of the firm of Messrs. F. H. Drabble, hosiery manufacturers and dyers. He was deeply interested in all matters pertaining to education, and although he was a keen Liberal, being president of the Matlock Liberal Club, there is no doubt that the education of the child was dearest to his heart. For these reasons, and not least for his philanthropy, he has been a greatly missed man. To the death of Mr. Saxton we have referred above. Mr. J. B. Richards, J.P., chairman of Matlock Council, lost his wife a few months ago after a long period of terrible suffering, and Miss Kewley, sister of the Rector of Matlock, and one of Matlock's most eminent Church workers, passed away this summer [Miss Kewley died in 1916, not 1917].

We have already spoken of Matlock's prosperous summer, and we are also glad to find that the hydropathic winter season continually improves. All the hydros, most of which have had an unusually high average of visitors throughout the year, were fully booked up for Christmas, and Yuletide festivities, in a curtailed and sober form, it must be admitted, have been held.

Sheffield Evening Telegraph, 16 January 1918

MATLOCK MILKSELLERS' DEADLOCK.
This morning the members of the Matlock and District Milksellers' Association served notices to customers that on Saturday next, unless the Local Food Committee grant them the sixpence per quart demanded, no more milk will be supplied in this area. The notice says that after loyally supplying at fivepence halfpenny, the price fixed by the Food Committee, which only allows the farmers one farthing per. quart for all retailing expenses, the Ministry of Food, to whom they had appealed, after making enquiries in the district, decided that milk should not be less that sixpence. This the local food committee will not sanction and the decision come is arrived at in the greatest regret.

Derbyshire Courier, 11 May 1918

ROLL OF HONOUR:
Able Seaman A. F. Walton, formerly of Starkholmes

PRISONERS OF WAR.
Sergt. Edgar Drury, Matlock.

[1. Able Seaman Albert Frank Walton's name does not appear on any of the Matlock & District memorials. He was born at Skegby on 5 Feb 1891 and was the son of Francis and Lucy Walton. The family were in Starkholmes in 1901 and before enrolling on 15 Nov 1915 he was employed as a railway clerk. He was married and his widow lived at Woodville, Burton-on-Trent. He was Killed in Action on 25 Mar 1918 and is commemorated on the Arras memorial, Bay 1
2. Edgar Drury appears in the 1901 census]

Derbyshire Courier, 15 June 1918

AEROPLANE WEEK.
Matlock's Effort to Raise £17,500.
£2 10s. PER HEAD.
Matlock has been deputed by the Government to raise £17,560 by the sale of National War Bonds, and the prospects are that this sum will be considerably exceeded. The arrangements have been placed in the hands of the Matlock War Savings Committee, the energetic secretaries of which are Miss Vale and the Rev. G. D. Mason, and they have received active assistance for organisation purposes from Mr. Chas. F. White and Mr. J. B. Richards, the chairman of the Committee. The former has devised a scheme which will not fail to appeal to the feelings of all Matlock people; that is, to present a War Savings Certificate to the next-of-kin of every soldier who has made the supreme sacrifice.

Mr. White also arranged a series of propaganda meetings during the week, the first of which took the form of a semi-religious service at the Town Hall on Sunday night, over which Mr. J. B. Richards presided. The hall was filled to overflowing.

Derbyshire Courier, 15 June 1918

Private Edwin Knowles, Sherwood Foresters, of Bank road, Matlock, is reported missing. He is well-known throughout the Matlock district as an athlete. In civil life was in the office Messrs. Byre and Sons, Chesterfield, and present at his wife is living at Chandler Hill, Chesterfield. Private Knowles was wounded last year.

Derbyshire Courier, 13 July 1918

MATLOCK'S GRATITUDE.
War Savings Certificates for Relatives of Fallen.
Mr. Charles F. White's scheme to present War Savings Certificate the next-of-kin of every Matlock soldier who has made the supreme sacrifice has materialised, and this week 110 Certificates, purchased by money subscribed during the recent War Weapons Week, have been distributed. The next of kin of any fallen soldier who has not received the gift should communicate with Mr. White at "The Woodlands", Matlock.

[A letter from Mr. White, not quoted here, accompanied each certificate].

Derby Daily Telegraph, 2 August 1918

Claremont, a well-known residence on the top of Matlock Bank, has been taken over by the Sheffield Workpeople's Convalescent Home Association as a rest home.

See: Claremont

Liverpool Echo,14 August 1918

A HYDRO DANCE.
A first prosecution in England for holding dancing after 10.30 by electric light was heard at Matlock, to-day. The manager of the Chatsworth Hydro was fined 10s for holding a ball on Bank Holiday night by electricity.
[The manager at that time was Frank Crohill.]

See: Chatsworth Hydro

Derbyshire Courier, 17 August 1918

MAGISTRATES AND MATLOCK BATH HOTEL.
Charges were preferred against William Dudley Dance, manager of the New Bath Hotel, Matlock Bath, on Wednesday, of having insufficiently screened lights on the night of an air raid warning, having failed to keep a register of aliens staying in the hotel, and of failing to furnish particulars as required by the Order. Mr. Lymn admitted all the charges.

Sergt. Aves testified that the registration forms of three Americans, three Swiss, a Turk, and two British subjects were incompletely filled up, and, further, that the alien names were not entered in the register. Mr. Lymn pleaded excessive pressure of work on his client, and said that he was unaware that he ought to keep a register of departures.

Fines of £5 in each of the registration cases and £1 in the lighting case were imposed, the Bench expressing the opinion that the hotel was very badly managed, and that it was time there was an alteration.

See: New Bath Hotel (the first of several images)

Derby Daily Telegraph, Thursday 22 August 1918

A proposal to erect war memorial of local gritstone opposite the Town Hall was discussed at Matlock Wednesday night, and adjourned till October

Derbyshire Courier, 24 August 1918

THE MATLOCKS.
Police-superintendent John Clarke, of Matlock, has received a post-card from his youngest son, Sergt. Reginald Clarke, Sherwood Foresters, stating that he is in hospital in France suffering from gas poisoning. At time of writing no further details are available. Before joining the Army, Sergt. Clarke was in the office of Mr. James Potter, solicitor.

Derbyshire Courier, 14 September 1918

Lady Journalist's Fall into River.
Miss B. Howsin, of Matlock Bath, a local journalist, had a narrow escape from drowning when she was returning from a late engagement at Darley Dale. In the darkness she walked over the low parapet of the Matlock Bath promenade into the River Derwent. Struggling to the side Miss Howsin clung to a spray of trailing ivy and but for the timely aid of a sailor home on leave would probably have drowned. The sailor lassoed her with a rope and drew her up the promenade wall. She was unhurt, and beyond the fright and wetting is none the worse for her ordeal.

The Daily News, 12 October, 1918

LIBERAL "UNIONISTS" AND LIBERAL VOTERS.
WHAT THE CONSTITUENCIES SAY
[Random districts throughout the country chosen to gauge public opinion on the second reading of the Government of Ireland Bill]
Lord Edward Cavendish, M.P for West Derbyshire ...
The Liberals of the Matlock Division of Derbyshire have passed a resolution asking Lord E. Cavendish to reconsider his position. Votes recorded, 9,158.; Lord E. Cavendish's majority, 882.

The Daily News, 12 October, 1918

NEWS IN BRIEF
At Matlock Dale Quarries Samuel Beech, 14, fell from a rock a distance of 200 feet and was killed instantly.

Derbyshire Courier, 19 October 1918

MATLOCK MEMORIAL
Sundial Scheme Postponed by Town's Meeting.
Matlock Urban Council convened a town's meeting Thursday consider a scheme for a war shrine to Matlock men who have fallen in the war. Mr. J. Simpson submitted a design for an octagonal pedestal rising from three tiers of steps and surmounted by a sundial, the men's names to be inscribed on the eight sides. The Chairman (Mr. L. G. Wildgoose, C.C.) and Mr. E. Drabble strongly supported the suggestion, but Mr. F. C. White thought the question might be deferred until after the was when Mr. Simpson's design could be incorporated into a memorial of a more permanent character.

On behalf of the Discharged Soldiers' Federation, Mr. E. Edwards requested the postponement of the matter until such time as the men returned from war.

The meeting, which was only sparsely attended, decided to postpone definitive action for the present.

Derbyshire Courier, 26 October 1918

Over 500 people attended a masked ball and whist drive arranged by the Canadian convalescent officers and nurses at the Pavilion, Matlock Bath, on Wednesday.

Derbyshire Courier, 26 October 1918

MATLOCK POSTAL DIFFICULTY
Ten of the postmen and five of the indoor staff Matlock Post Office are off duty suffering from influenza, and the delivery of letters and other postal business is in considerable arrear.

THE MATLOCKS.
Owing the fact that many the postmen had contracted influenza the postal service at Matlock on Wednesday was considerably interrupted and the delivery of letters was delayed.

The fat stock grading market at Matlock on Tuesday was the best since its inception.

The Daily News, 11 November, 1918

David Davies, "the Dartmoor shepherd," was sentenced at Dartmoor Assizes on Saturday to three months' imprisonment for breaking into Matlock Parish Church.
(AA)

Derbyshire Courier, 16 November 1918

Children under 14 are debarred from attending cinema entertainments in the Matlock District, owing to the influenza epidemic.

Corporal Percy Statham, son of Mr. W. N. Statham, photographer, Dale Road, Matlock, a warden at the parish church, is reported wounded in the knee by a machine gun bullet. He has been admitted to hospital and the bullet has been extracted.

His father can be found under Photographers