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This article appeared in the Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday 19th December 1908



MRS E.T. LAMBERT'S PRIZES.-On Tuesday morning Miss Lambert. accompanied by Lady Webster, visited the schools to distributed the prizes kindly given annually by Mrs. Lambert, for drawing, needlework and knitting, good conduct also being taken into consideration.

Those successful in the boys' school wereWilliam A.G. Elphick and Percy W. Whitewho received boxes of drawing and painting materials.

Of the girls Flossie Peirce. Florrie Lavngton. Dorothy Tutt, Edna Austin, Hilda Bassett, Flossie King, Dorothy Burton. Olive Boots, Edith Cockett, Dorothy Tibbetts, Elsie Foster and Florrie Willsher, workbaskets: and May Meppem, a doll.

In the infants' school Charity Smith, Evelyn Foster, Violet Young. Amy Bond. Ethel Turner Edie Newman, Beatrice Douch, Percy White, Reggie White, Arthur Bowers Ernest French, Harry Champion, and George Meppem, dolls, balls, and other toys.
The visitors inspected the children's work and wished them all a Happy Christmas.
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This article appeared in the Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday 17th June 1911

BATTLE

SCHOOLS' PRIZE GIVING
FULL PRIZE LIST.

The animal prize-giving of the Battle Schools was held yesterday (Friday) afternoon, when the Dean distributed the prizes to the children.
Lord Brassry presented copies of his new book "A Saga of the Sunbeam." to the top boy and girl. These were gained by Harry Willsher and Rose Winchester.
There were 14 girls and two infants who had not missed on attendance throughout the year.
Horace Bothwell gained a special prize for Food conduct. The prize lists were as fellows:-


Boys.-Regular attendance. good conduct. and general progress: Clifford Burton, Harry Wilsher, John Smale, George Cramp, Chas. Cooper. Sidney Neeves. Arthur Bowers, George Hopkins, Percy White, Fredrick Russell.


Drawing.-Leonard Beney, Harry Hewitt, Archie Barnes. Henry Muggridge. Stanley Clifton, Chas. Tutt, Arthur Pete, Marcus Coad. Reginald Oliver and Wilfrid White


Girls.-Minnie Hoad. Edith Highwood, Edith Cockett, Mabel Cramp, Winnie Townsend. Liela Earle. Dorothy Tibbitts. Florrie Douch, Ethel Metson. Maggie Gower, Florrie Willsher. Kitty Boxall, May Meppem. Emily Duke, Lily Deeprose, Evelyn Foster, Grace Hale, Violet Stace. Gertie Barnes, Emma Mepham, Annie Spray, Francis Seword. Daisy Young, Fanny Smith, Elsie Foster, Mabel Hobday. May Elliot, Lily Spray, Daisy Thomas, Cladys Crawley, Sybil Wheaton. Kathleen Turk, and Muriel Maplesden.


Infants.-Effie Reeves, Clifford Oliver, Ethel Turner, Nellie Freeman, Florrie Freeman, Kathleen Holden, George Meppem, Harold Kane, Jack Noakes. Albert Buss, Ernest Levitt, Norah Briley. Evangeline Foster, Ethel Holland. Frances Rideout, Edith Winchester, Dorothy Curtis, Constance Tibbitts, Olive Beney, Cecil Noakes. Marjorie Smith, Elsie Spray, Daisy Wait. Allied Burton. Dora Rideout, Elizabeth Dann, Donald Noakes. and Hilda Pocock.

This article appeared in the Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday 15th May 1915



ENCOURAGING NEEDLEWORK.

Mrs. Lambert, of Denham, Bucks.. late of Telham Court, annually gives a number of prizes to Battle Church of England Schools with the praiseworthy object of encouraging needlework and drawing, and on Tuesday afternoon the much looked forward to ceremony of giving away these prizes took place. The event was all the more pleasing from the fact that Mrs. Lambert herself attended the schools at great personal inconvenience to distribute the prizes. She is always a popular visitor and her presence was greatly appreciated by the teaching staff and the children. There were also present the Dean of Battle (the Very Rev. E.R.Currie, D.D). Lady Webster and Mrs. W.A. Raper. Mrs. Lambert first visited the Girls' School. She highly complimented Mrs Saxby (the head mistress), her staff, and the childrien upon the excellence of the work in each department, especially the senior class upon having completed 163 pairs of socks for the soldiers since Christmas. Captain Lambert is in the trenches, and Mrs. Lamberts son
Reginald is engages! in the fighting in the Dardinelles. In giving away the prizes Mrs. Lambert congratulatedthose who had won them and spoke words of encouragement to those who had not been so fortunate.

The awards were as under :-

Infants:

Class I.: Olive Hoad and Noel Kirgan.

Class II.: Vera Noakes and Richard Making.

Girls:

Standard I. : Lily Sargent and Leslie Daun.

Standard II. : Kate Conquer and Grace Ashby.

Standard III. : Metza Moakes, Maggie Park and Mabel Congdon

Standard IV. : Kathleen Mills and Margery Richens

Standard V. : Norah Beney and Evangeline Foster.

Standard VI. : Gertie. Barnes and Edith Newman.

Standard VII. : Evelyn Foster and Mabel Martin.

Mrs Lambert arrived in the Boys' School to distribute the prizes for the hest drawing during playtme, and Mr. A.E Kemp, the head master, formed up the boys in the playground to receive their prize.

The winners were Percy White and George Meppem. Before leaving. Mrs. Lambert spoke in high terms of the splendid work accomplished by the boys, and complimented Mr. Kemp and his staff upon their smart appearance.
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This article appeared in the Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday 8th July 1916

PRIZE DISTRIBUTION.-The annual distribution of County Council prizes for good conduct and general progress took place at the Battle Boys' School yesterday (Friday- afternoon. the. prizes being handed to the, boys by the Hon. Mrs. Currie. .

The prize winners were as follows: - Seniors: Wm. Parks and Percy; White intermediate, Alfred Burton, Cecil Noakes, and Edwyn Mobbs.. juniors, Kenneth Carter, Albert Jones and Frank Ray.

Drawing prizes were awarded as follows: - Senior, George Mel,- whin and LuigeSunnyside; intermediate, Fred Ball and Chas Holland; junior. Sidney Holland and Douglas Holland. The function was not of a public nature, the pro.0 eeedings consisting simply of the distribution and a few songs by the boys.

It is interesting to note that one of the boys, Percy White has a record of five years and eight Months' unbroken attendance.

This article appeared in the Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday May 6th 1916

BATTLE.

SPECIAL AWARD.-- Percy White of Battle and Langton School, has been granted by the East Sussex Education Committee a special award for five years and eight months perfect attendance, with exemplary conduct and work.
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This article appeared in the Hastings and St Leonards Observer

Saturday July 7 1917



ALLOTMENT GARDENING.-In response to the twelve prizes offered by Sir Augustus F. Webster, Bart., for the best kept allotments on the Battle Abbey Estate of over 100 tenancies, there was a keen competition, both in produce and general tidiness. when the. Judges (Mr. George Grigg, Telham Court Gardens. and Mr. Walter White. Battle
Abbey Gardens, viewed. on Tuesday. with the following results:-Nursery Allotments. -1, John Cutbush; 2, William Highwood; 3, W. H. Young; v.h.c., George Hackle:
David Hatton. Palmer's Allotments.-1, Mark White; 2, George Godden; 3, Tom Bur. ton; v.h.c., James Spittals: h.c.,. Walter Franks.. Little Park Allotment:.-1, H.C.Fletcher; 2. John Eldridge; 3, Thomas load; v.h.c., William Mepham;Charles Noakes. Virgin's Croft Allotments.-1, Charles Mating; 2. Ernest Freeman: 3. William Jones: v.h.c.. Henry Avann: h.c., Harry Ballard. The three hest prize winners were: -Charles Mitting, 55 points; Ernest Freemaman. 44 points: John Cutbush. 40 points.
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This article appeared in the Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday 16th August 1919

Is this trip to Dallington where Percy met Mable Mewett?

DALLINGTON

HOSPITAL PARADE.--The annual Hospital Parade was held on Sunday. Dallington Band, with very efficient help from Burwash, Heathfield, and Warbleton, and conducted by Mr. George Harmer, headed the procession. The route was a long one-some 8.5 miles-and the day being very hot, all were most grateful to Mrs. Lawley, of Manor Farm. Brightling, who generously provided tea and other refreshments for the Band, the workers, and followers, including many children.

The collectors were Messrs. A.J.Burgess, G.Buss, D.Dallaway E.Cobden (ex-soldiers), and Percy White. Mr. H. Barton again kindly brought over the little dog from Waldron, and the intelligent animal collected 27s. At six p.m. Woods Corner was reached, and the Band, etc., thoroughly appreciated the bountiful meat tea which Mr. and Mrs. Cornford placed on the table. Afterwards Mr. Peploe, hon. secretary to the Parade, thanked the Band and visitors and. all the workers for their efforts. At seven p.m. a special service was held in the Parish Church, which was filled to the doors. The Band played the opening and concluding volnntaries and accompanied the hymns. Mr. Peploe read the special lesson (St. Mark ii., 1-12), and the Rector preached an impressive sermon on the text, " Be not weary in well doing." in the course of which he spoke of his experiances as hospital chaplain in France.
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This artical appeared in the Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday August 13 1921



DALLINGTON
INQUEST OF CARTER.


The Coroner for the Rape of Hastings (Mr. F. C. Sheppard) conducted an inquest at the Swan lnn, Dallington. on Friday afternoon, concerning the tragio death of Herbert Gadd, farm carter, aged 48, of Woods Corner, who, as recorded in our last issue, fell from a waggon while unloading timber.

Evidence of identification was given by 'Herbert Gadd. junr., deceased's eon, a disabled ex-Service man.

How the fatality occurred was described by David Thomas Honeysett, a cowman, living at the Swan Inn. He stated that about noon on Wednesday he was with the deceased unloading poles at the rear of the inn from a farm waggon, which had no horses attache& to it. Deceased was standing on the poles in the waggon Ile was lifting up a pole and was turning it round when his feet slipped from underneath him.

The Coroner-What caused him to slip, do you say ?-Witness : Because the ''bate" (poles) were a bit greasy, sir. That is the only thing I could say.

Continuing, witness said deceased felt back wards off the waggon and pitched on his left
shoulder on to the ground. The pole which he had been lifting fell on top of him. Witness removed the pole. which was lying across the left side of deceased's face, and raised him up. but there was no sign of life. Witness rushed for Mr. Cornford (their employer), and Dr. Burfield was sent for.

Answering the Coroner. witness said the poles were for firewood. It was a beech pole that fell on deceased. The poles varied in length, the one in question being about 20 feet long. They were loaded in the waggon from end to end.

It was stated that the pole weighed 1381bs. Witness added that it had rained when the poles were being loaded and carted.

The Coroner-They were, in fact, slippery, were they?-Witness: Yes, sir.
I suppose he had nailed boots on?-Yes, hob-nailed.

Dr. T. Burfield, of Heathfield, said he ex- ;mined the body about an hour afterwards. There was a fracture of the neck, and death must have been instantaneous.
The Coroner. who sat without a jury. recorded a verdict of " Accidental death."

FUNERAL AND MEMORIAL SERVICE.
In the peaceful God's Acre of the quiet Sussex village where he had spent all his life, the late Mr. IL Gadd was laid to rest amid tokens of sympathy and regret on
aturday afternoon. A large congregation, representing nearly every family in the parish, .filled the church, and thero were many visitors from the villages around.


The Rector conducted the service, and the bearers were: Messrs. C. Moore. James Buss, jun., Albion Mewett, jun. (Dallington Band) and F. Pennels .(Burwash Comrades Baud).

The mourners were: Mr. John Gadd (brother), Mrs. .Gadd (mother), Messrs. H. Gadd and A. Gadd (sons). Miss L. Gadd (daughter), Mr. W. Buss, and Mrs. Buss (son-in-law and daughter). Mrs. D. Gadd (sister-in-law), Mrs. F. Harmer (niece), Mr. P. Harmer (nephew), Mrs, G. Beale (niece), Miss A. Budgen, Miss H. Gadd, Mrs. Marchant, Miss R. Relph (nieces), Mr. and Mrs. C. Brett (brother and sister-in-law), Mr. and Mrs. C. Relph (brother and sister-in- law). Mr. and Mrs. Thompson (nephew and niece), and Mr. Arthur Budgen (nephew).

Psalm 39 was sung to a chant by J. Tulle from Purcell, and after the Lesson the hymn, "Christ will gather in His own." At the conclusion of the service in church, , the hand, assisted by friends from Warble- ton, with Mr. J. Buss as conductor, played the "Dead March " in "Saul," the congregation standing. Afterwards the hymn. Abide with Me." was feelingly sung, the band accompanying.

The Rector, who is District Chief Ranger of Tunbridge Wells District, and also Chief Ranger of Court "Dallington Deanery." of which Mr. H. Gadd was a member, read the Foresters' address over a departed brother and then pronounced the Benediction.
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The article below appeared in the Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday July 8th, 1922

Dorothy Eldridge is my 1st cousin twice removed


PRETTY BATTLE WEDDING,
Two young people, well known in Battle, were married at the Parish Church on Saturday afternoon, when a good company assembled to witness the ceremony. The contracting parties were Miss Dorothy Eldridge only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Eldridge 18, The Mount, and Mr. A. Watson, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Watson, Harold Place. The Very Rev. Dean Francis officiated and Mr. Hayler played the organ.
The bride, who was attired in ivory satin grenadine and georgette, with wreath of orange blossom and veil, was given away by her father. She carried a bouquet of white roses and carnations, the gift of the bridegroom. The bride was attended by two bridesmaids, Miss 0. Goodsell and Miss Russell (friends), who wore pink silk dresses and black crinoline hats, and carried bouquets of pink roses and sweet peas. They also wore gold bangles, gifts from the bridegroom. Mr. Edward Watson, brother of the bridegroom, acted as best man.
A reception was held in the Baptist Sunday School Room, when about fifty guests were present. Mr. and Mrs. Watson afterwards left for Heathfield, where the honeymoon is being spent. The bride's goin away costume was of mole gabardine with blue hat. The future home will beat Battle


A list of the presents is appended :-Bride to bridegroom, silver watch; bridegroom to bride. ebony dressing table set; bride's father, cheque and toilet set; bride's mother, household linen and dining table; bridegroom's mother and Eddie, tea service; Mr. and Mrs. Bert Eldridge dinner service; Mr. Robert Eldridge tumblers and wine glasses; Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Watson (Heathfield), silver dinner cruet; Mr. and Mrs. George' Bean (Heathfield), mahogany tray; Mr. and Mrs. and Miss Dodd, silver tea knives; Mr. and Mrs. T. Francis (Heathfield), linen table cloth; Mr. and Mrs. S. W. Richardson and family, clock; Mrs. Puttsen., glass dishes; -Mr. aid Mrs. C. Putt, silver breakfast cruet; Mr. M. Tutt, silver bread fork; Mr. and Mrs. H. Willsher, silver sugar tongs and spoons; Mr. H. and Master H. Willsher, set boot brushes; Mr. W. Judge and Miss F. Willsher, brass brush and crumb tray; " A Friend?' pair blankets; Mrs. Fisher and 1Mrs. Seccumb, tray; Mr. and Mrs. Hitchcock, oxydised copper lamp; Mr. and Mrs. Walter White, money and satin cushion; Miss E. Watson (Heathfield). cake doyley; Mrs. Watson, sen. (Heathfield), duchesse set.

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This article appeared in the Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday 3rd July 1922

BATTLE

THEFT OF BREAD.
At a special sitting of the Battle Petty Sessions on Friday before Mr. C. Tuft (in the chair), and Mr. J. P. Woodhams, Charles Dodsworth, aged 19, of 121, Portabella-road, Nottinghill Gate, and Walter Reginald Best. 18, of no fixed abode, were charged with stealing the previous day from a van one loaf valued at 5d., the property of Messrs. Jenner and Simpson Battle.
Percy James White, an employe of Messrs. Jenner and Simpson, said about 11.45 a.m. he was delivering bread at the Drill Hall, opposite the Police Station, and in consequence of information received from a boy named Suggett. he informed the police that some bread had been taken out of his van.
Walter Suggett, aged 14. 43, Wellington gardens, said he was standing by the water trough and saw two men, one tall and the other short. come up the road from Hastings. As they walked past the cart, the tall one put his hand in and took out loaf which he put under his coat.
P.C. Butter-Browne, said at 12.5 on Thursday, he saw the prisoners a short distance outside Battle and told them he was making enquiries about some bread which had been stolen and asked them what they had in their pockets. Dodsworth pulled some bread out of his pocket and said he got it from a house near Hastings. Witness told them they answered to the description of two men who had been seen to take the bread. and Dodsworth then said: "It's no use telling lies. We took the bread as we were hungry. We have had nothing to eat since 4 o'clock yesterday afternoon." The other said "Yes, that is right.'
Prisoners were bound over in the sum of £10 for six months.

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In spite of a long-cherished wish to celebrate his hundredth birthday, Mr.James Morgan died on Thursday afternoon at Abbey Gardens, Powdermill lane, where be had lived for some years past. Mr. Morgan had been in failing health for several months, but had only been confined to his bed for 10 days before his death.


Everybody knew "old Morgan" as he was familiarly called, and those who had his
close acquaintanceship were often pleased to hear him talk of his reminiscences. Coming to Battle from Ticehurst with his parents when quite a child, he has lived
there ever since. and (or the greater part of that lime worked on the Abbey Estate.
as his father did, starting as houseboy in the Abbey when only nine years old. When
there was powder mill at Battle he delivered the barrels ofpowder in a van, often
going with it to London, and on one occasion, during the Crimean War, assisting in taking 1500 barrels to Tonbridge. Mr. Morgan lived at the Powder Mill Cottage 67 years. being employed there 28 years under Mr. Charles Lawrence. His wife died there 15 years ago on her 82nd birthday.Hegave up active work nearly 15 years
since when be has busied himself about his garden.


Mr. Morgan had a wonderful memory to the last and could recollect the time when the Workhouse was where the present Railway Hotel is, and when the Station Approach was a hop garden. During his early days, too. there were hop fields on either side of the Powder Mill Lane. Some of the large oak trees in the stumbletts were planted as saplings by him. When the new road was cut to Robertsbridge he was one of those who assisted in the work, and used to relate a humorous anecdote of how the two parties of navies. the Battle men working from one end and the Netherfleld men from the other, met on a snowy day when they had cut right through and celebrated the event by a snow-ball fight. Thanks to his excellent memory, he was able to assist Mr. Herbert Blackman in compiling a book on the Powder Mills. He was a great believer in herbs and when a boy drank nothing but herb tea. There used to he bunches of various sorts of herbs hanging on the walls the room, a pinch of each was put in the teapot and water poured on it to make the tea. Mr. Morgan attributed his longevity largely to the use he had made of herbs.' He was very fond of singing and when his grandson visited him this week sang to him by a sad coincidence, a song called 'It may be our last meeting."


Mr. Morgan had sixty descendants, some being in Australia and America. His eldest son. who is in the latter country, will be 74 next February.

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NEARLY ACENTINARIAN

BATTLE RESIDENT DIES WITHIN SIX MONTHS OF 100.


A WONDERFUL MEMORY

Sussex Agricultural Express Friday October 27, 1922

BORNE TO GRAVE BY ABBEY WORKERS.

Battle's grand old man, Mr. James Morgan. who died last week, at the advanced age of 99 was buried on Tuesday afternoon.

The interment was preceded by a service at the Parish Church, conducted by the very Rev. Dean H. Francis. which was attended by several of the deceased's old friends. During the service the late Mr. Morgan's favourite hymn. " Abide with, Me." was sung. The mourners were: Mr. and Mrs. W.White (daughter and son-inlay), Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Eldridge (daughter and son-in-law). Mrs. S. Harris (daughter). Mr. Reg White. Mr. Percy White, and Mr. R. Eldndge (grandsons) Mrs Wood (niece), Mr. J. Fuller and Mr. W. Waite (nephews). There were also present: Mr. Harry Jones (an old workmate), Mrs. Hewitt., Mrs. Jose., Mr. H. J. Gower. Mr. Herbert Blackman. and Mr. Alfred Blackman. The coffin was borne by the following employes on the Abbey Estate:,Messrs. C. Jenner, J. Spittles, H. Wood, and F. Philcox.
Wreaths were sent by: "Lizzie, Walter, Reg. Percy and Mabel," "Carrie, Percy. Dorithy Bob. and Arthur," "Bert and Ida." " Fanny," " Lily. Harry and family." Sir Augustus F. 'Webster. Bart., Miss Webster, ' the Abbey garden staff, Mr. Herbert Blackman, Madame and Mrs. Mussonut, Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Mewitt, and Mrs. George Muggridge and family.

INTERESTING REMINISCENCES.
By the death of Mr. James Morgan, which occurred on Thursday. October 19th. at Battle Abbey-gardens.. in his 100th year, at the residence of his daughter and son-in-law, Battle has lost an interesting link with the past. Mr. Morgan's observant nature and well-stored memory, combined with a clear and happy manner of recital of happenings of long ago, rendered a chat with him most pleasurable and interesting to anyone who had that privilege.

He was very active and alert mentally and physically until the last three or four years, when the gradual decline of his physically strength prevented him from indulging in outdoor exercise; but to the end he was invariably cheerful and uncomplaining, and under the tender care and unremitting attention of his devoted daughter was thoroughly happy and contented.

Nearly the whole of his long life had been spent on the Abbey Estate in various capacities, and he had very pleasant memories of the time when he was house-boy at the Abbey under Lady Webster, and of her sons. Godfrey and Frederic, who were about his own age. In the course of time he accepted the position of head van man to Messrs. Laurence and Son at the Battle Gunpowder Works, with whom be remained until the works ceased. One part of his duties was to deliver the gunpowder over a wide area extending as far as Lewes and Tunbridge with his horses and van. In addition to delivery he was empowered to receive payment for the goods, his employers placing the greatest confidence in him. He also assisted in bringing the saltpetre and brimstone to the works (the charcoal was, burnt on the site), and in taking the powder from one set of buildings to another for the various processes in its manufacture, which afforded him an excellent opportunity of seeing and noting the minutest details of the manufactture; it also brought him into contact with all the workmen, and many diverting anecdotes would he relate of them, showing that they had a full appreciation of the lighter side of life, and were not unduly impressed by the dangerous nature of their calling.

In the course of various conversations he related the following item.:-He well remembered the Abbey Refectory being used as a gardener's store. etc. The roof, which was partly of tile and part shingle, fell in one very rough night about the year 1838, and then Lady Webster bad the north wall removed and turf laid on the floor.

As a child he lived at Breadsell in the old farm house. three families living there. At that time the Beauport wall was being built. Previous to that thestraightened this land re was a " big bit of land covered with hawth " called Breadsell Green, where he and his brothers played, but when the wall was built and the road was enclosed. When he was young wages for men were 1/8 per day and for lads 7d. and 8d. a day! He worked in the hop gardens, etc. doing as much as a man at 8d. a day. Cheese and bacon were very cheap then, sugar about at present prices, and tea 7/- per lb. He said "We youngsters didn't have tea at all, we had herb tea (mentioning the common herbs). which were mixed and hot water poured on them." His mother would purchase an ounce of tea occasionally " to have a taste on Sunday afternoons."

He was, fond of speaking of the old coaching days. The "coach horses " laid at the George Hotel, and with the coaches and the waggons going to and fro many horses were required. There were five post-buys at the"George" for engagements if folk came along who wished to travel. He also spoke of the red coats of the coachman and guard and the "bugle horn."

He also referred to the revolt of the farm labourers against existing conditions about the year 1830 (which is described in Mr.Hodson's "History of Salehurst). He said "the men struck for higher pay and went about in mobs. His father was then working on a farm at Battle, and was compelled to join them. Sir Godfrey Webster spoke to them from a platform at Battle promising higher wages and they got it."My father was a smuggler." he said, and minutely described the method of slinging the tubs of brandy from the shredders. His father being a strong man carried a third tub, two being the ordinary load, the pay being 2/6 per tub. 'their meeting place was usually Breadsell Green, and they would go off through Crowburst, but sometimes as far as Pett: it all depended where the boat was coming in.

He told of a farm labourer named Ransome living at the old wooden cottage which stands close to Park Gate, on going to his work at Great Park Farm one morning finding a lot of tubs of brandy hidden under the straw in the cow sheds.

He also told the following tale: - At the Sedlescombe Powder Works one of the buildings stood in the Brooks undera clump of trees, which still remain. The man named Sargent, who was in charge of this building was suspected of having smuggled goods there, which indeed he had, concealed under the floor. The exise officers came and commenced a thorough search of this building, and were getting dangerously near the place of concealement when Sargent rushed in the door exclaiming, "Look here, if you are going a blundering about like this we shall have an explosion, and I'm off." The frightened excisemen then hurriedly abandoned further search.

The above are a few of the many notes of the past he loved to tell. The last has now been told, but the respected memory of old Mr. Morgan will long live in the minds of many in Battle and neighbourhood.

(NB Breadsell Lane can be found at these coordinates - 50.886302, 0.526380 )

Read more about James Morgan
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Hastings and St Leonards Observer Sarturday January 05 1929

BATTLE

BATTLE TOWN BAND.


Sir,--May we be allowed to trespass again on your valuable space with a few remarks as to our present position and hopes for the New Year.
We are grratified with the many expressions of appreciation we have recieved this Christmastide from all quarters. Our members played out every night, with the exception of Sundays for the ten days preceding Christmas, and again on the Market Green on Christmas and Boxing Day mornings. The response by the tradespeople and public seas, with a few exceptions, considerably better than in the past, and our members felt fairly compensated for their lost time and efforts. We incidentally collected sufficient to pay the rent of our bandroom, reimburse ourselves for the purchase of a light necessary for playing out, and discharge an outstanding account for music. As to the future. Our immediate and urgent necessity was a new bass instrument, the present one being acquired over forty years ago and now entirely worn out. We have ordered an instrument and are now faced with the task of paying off the instalments for its purchase-a total of about £10. We are arranging to play in the town on several Saturday evenings during the next few weeks and trust that the generosity of our tradespeople and public will soon enable us to collect this amount.


Though the replacement of this instrument is by no means the sum total of our reasonable needs, it is something to go on with, and, combined with a previous generous gift of a cornet, will do much to encourage us to further efforts. So soon as we can acquire a few additional instruments we shall be in a position to welcome recruits tom play them and so raise our hand to the standard that should be expected of a town such as Battle.


It suggested that a fund shoud he raised for the purchase of uniform, which of course, we agree is desirable, and this may come a little later. Meanwhile. it is players that count. and we look forward with more confidence to the New Year
its possible engagements in the town and district.


Yours truly.
WALTER W. WHITE. Hon. Secretary.

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My mums dad Albert Harris played for Hollington United

This article appeared in the Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday 11th May 1929

HOLLINGTON UNITED'S FINE RECORD.
The record of Hollington United F.C. is very favourable for the season just completed, especially when it is taken into con. sideration that the team has been a comparatively young one.
Players who formed the nucleus of the reserve team last season have been drafted into the first team, and have done very well. The first team played 30 matches, won 22.1 drew two, and lost six, scoring 146 goals with 62 scored against them. They were runners-up to Rock-a-Nore in the East Sussex League, won the Bexhill Charity Cup for the third time, and reached the semifinal of the East Sussex Cup.
The players have again worthily upheld the standard of the club, and Milder, Terrill, and Leppard have had the honour of playing for the county in representative matches. Terrill and Leppard played the requisite number of times to receive the county badges.
The heaviest defeat received by the team Was at the Pilot Field, in the Amateur Cup. when Hastings won 7-0. The biggest victory was at the expense of Rye, who were defeated at Hollington in an East Sussex League match by 20-11.

Even better results are anticipated for next season, now that the present players have welded themselves into a matchwinning combination. The team spirit has been excellent throughout the season. Of the younger players who have proved their worth, Upton. Prior, Chenery, Vidler, Ripley, and Horlock are deserving of special mention. Of the older slayers, Hader has again proved himself a brilliant goalkeeper and worthy to rank with the best in the county. Harris played many splendid games at left bark, and Crouch at centre-half, although seriously injured and absent from the team for 16 woe's, was a captain who used his wide experience in the best interests of the team. Terrill and Hyland made at times a brilliant right wing, and with Leppard and Britt playing at their best, the forward line was always a dangerous proposition to opposing defences. So ends what has been a really good season.
The leading goal soarers are as follows L. Britt 27, C. Terrill 25, J. Leppard 23, T. Hyland 22, J. Ripley 18, W. Vidler 9, A. Harris 5.

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Hastings and St Leonards Observer Sarturday March 22 1930

BATTLE

CONCERT.

The Drill Hall was crowded on Wednesday evening on the occasion of a concert in aid of the funds of the Battle Town Band. The Town Band contributed some enjoyable selections. and too talented local companies also made an Appearance. The Amusements Society were heartily applauded for " A Revue of Old Time Songs." and the " Blue Birds " repeated their succesful number, " An Eastern Scena." A male voice choir also made its first and what is hoped will not be its last appearances in the town. Mrs. Capell-Reade recited with great dramatic skill. her rendering of " The Telegram " being particularly good. Mrs Millicent Raper, Miss Edith Batley and Mr. R Sellena were heard to advantage in songs and Mr. Jack Errey's monologue. were a very popular feature.At the conclusion hearty cheers were accorded Mr. Sheehan-Dare and the Battle Band. The former thanked the artistes and all those who had supoprted the concert, and added word of thanks to Mr. Jack Errrey for is work in connection with the arrangements. Appealing for support for the band. Mr. Sheehan-Dare said how indepded they were to four men who kept the flag flying during the war, the brothers Parks one of whom was the present bandmaster. Mr. Walter White. and Mr. Santer. They were also indebted to Mr. J.P. Slagg for the gift of a valuable horn. Mr. Heriot. of Crowhurst, had made it possible for them to purchase nine instruments from the Crowhurst Band. which had now, unfortunatley ceased to exist. The Battle Band was a credit to the Town and worthy of all the support it could get. Theevening was brought to a close by the singing of the National Anthem.

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Hastings and St Leonards Observer Sarturday January 14th 1933

Childrens Page (my mum Eileen would have been 6 years old)


THANKS FOR SILVER PAPER AND
OTHER GIFTS.
Betty Dawson, Hollington (2 lbs. silver paper) ; Sylvia Mills. Sidley (4; lbs. silver paper) ; Juan Bunter, Bodiam ; Joyce Willes, Ore ( 8 Ibs. silver paper) ; Robert Trot Hastings; Peter and Christine Chancellor. Hastings; Billy Stapley, Crossin-Hand; Erie, Cecil and Jean Howe, St. Leonards ; Dorothy Veness. Penhurst (1 lb. silver paper); Elsie Hill, St. Leonards; Eileen Harris, Hollington ; Ronald and Doris Hepden ; Brenda Farrington. Hastings; Daphne and Yo-Yo .Henchie. St. Leonards (2 lbs. silver paper); Dorothy Fellows, Hastings; t evil and Freddy Stave, Guestling; Mary Isaac, Westfield (1/4 lb. silver paper) Madeline Bagnall. Northiam (2 1/4 lb paper); Leslie Howard. St, Leonards : Joice Oakman, St. Leonards; Betty Wickens, Blackboys; John and Barbara Povey, St. Leonards ; June McCarty, Hastings (1 lb. silver paper).

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Hastings and St Leonards Observer Sarturday July 15th 1933

LIONS GARDENPARTY

HOLLINGTON FOOTBALLERS AT HIGH
BEECH.
Favoured by glorious weather, the Hollington United Football Club enjoyed to the full the hospitality of their president, Mrs. Jefferson, at the annual garden party at High Beech. on Saturday. Bowls croquet, skittles, sports and competitions helped all to pass a happy afternoon in the delightful surroundings.

Mrs. Jefferson presided at tea, when those supporting her included Lady Simpson Backie, Captain Goldie, Mr. McGuire, the Rev. A. H. Bromfield and Mrs. Bromfield, Mr. and Mrs. A. W. Coburn, Mr. and Mrs. H. Sudell (Hastings F.C.), Mr. W. F. Carnaghan (Hastings F.A.), Mr. A. Hammond (hon. treasurer), and Mr. J. T. Merchant (hon. secretary). Mr. H. M. Jeffery, the club chairman, joined the party after tea.

After welcoming the guests, Mrs. Jefferson spoke in glowing terms of the fine spirit that had pervaded the club in its recent time of adversity. She paid special tribute to the fine leadership on the field of Mr. F. Crouch and to Messrs. Hammond and Marchant for their business management. Mr. Marchant had been secretary for 10 years and no club had had a more efficient secretary during that time.

Replying for the club, the Rev. A. H. Bromfield expressed thanks. for the hospitality they had received. while Mr. Coburn, on behalf of the visitors, brought the best wishes of the Hastings Club to Hollington. Every side suffered a bad patch at some time, but he was certain Hollington would soon leave their difficulties behind. Mr. Carnaghan also wished Hollington a successful season.

Thanks to Mrs. Jefferson were expressed by Mr. Marchant, who said that it was the ninth party at which she had been their hostess. During all the time he had worked with Mrs. Jefferson for the Hollington Club their association had been most happy. He also thanked the staff at High Beech for their cooperation in the day's proceedings.

Before the guests left, the health of the president was honoured, cheers being given on the call of Mr. Jeffery.

Prize-winners during the afternoon were as follows:-Children's race, Eileen Harris ; hidden treasure, Mr. Brooker ; bowling, Mr. Leppard ;. ankle show. 1, Mrs. W. Perkins; 2. Mrs. Hammond ; players' race, 1, Mt. T. Parker ; 2, Mr. J. Mills ; 3, Mr. H. Spears.

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This article appeared in the Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday 28th July 1934


ALEXANDRA ROSE DAY. - Saturday was Alexandra Rose Day in the town and surrounding district, and the total collection from Battle, Netherfield and Whatlington was £21 16s. 9d., as compared with £19 0s. 1d. last year. The collection was organised by Mrs. Hilder, of North Lodge, North Trade-road, and her helpers were Mrs. Jacoby (Battle Abbey), Mrs. Fraser, Miss Slater, Mrs. Hayler, Mr. Appleton, Mrs. Percy White, Mrs. Barrow, Miss Iles, Miss Phyllis Sweatman, Mrs. Holland, Mrs. Duberry, Mrs. Salmon and Miss Ivatts.

(Eileen and Doris had collected 2lb of silver paper this year - they must have been interviewed as this is what they said in a continueing section of Childrens Corner)


Eileen and Doris Harris Hollington.- We are sending you another parcel of silver paper. We are going to save some more. We hope the children in the cots are much better, so that they can get out in the sunshine. We hope the L.L.K. is 'getting more members, and the farthings and silver paper increasing.
[Thank you, children.-Uncle Tom.]

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This article appeared in the Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday 10th August 1935

Home and garden page

THANKS FOR SILVER PAPER AND
OTHER GIFTS
Mrs. Fleck noe. Hastibgs. ; Peggy Hurst, Ore ; Bernard Baker, Fairlight ; Roy Mills, Hollington ; Dorothy and Daisy Bristow, Ore ; Joyce Edmunds. Ore ; Evelyn and Joan Hylands, Battle ; Pamela Tichband, Hastings J. Bodle ; Mary and Violet Drake, Halton ; Gladys and Irene Burry, Hastings ; Raymond Gladwish, St Leonards ; Marian and Vyvyan Recknell, Hastings ; Eileen and Doris Harris, St. Leonards; E. Choesman,

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Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday February 7, 1942



News From The District
BATTLE ABBEY GARDENER


THE LATE MR. W. W. WHITE
By the death of Mr. Walter Wallace White. of the Lodge, Battle Abbey Park (reported In our last issue) Battle lost a respected and life-long resident. Mr. White had been in falling health for about 12 months, and a widow and two sons are bereaved. He had worked in the gardens of Battle Abbey for the last 48 years, being head gardener for the last 25 years. A keen horticulturist and an acknowledged expert in tree training, he was an extensive exhibitor at the local flower shows for many years. Besides numerous annual awards he held for 20 consecutive years the first prise for a cottager's flower garden, and was for some years a judge at neighbouring flower shows.


A member of the Battle town band for 55 years, he was for the greater part of that period Its hon. secretary, and for some years he served with the former Cinque Ports Rifle Volunteers. Mr. White Excelled in any hobby that claimed his fancy, and his artistic qualities were ably shown in wood carving. clay modelling, art needlework and carpentry.


The funeral took place on Monday, when the Dean (the Very Rev. W. W Youard) officiated at the service at the Parish Church and subsequent interment in the cemetery.

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This article appeared in the Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday 19th June 1943

Battle Bridegroom
On Whit-Monday, at Hollington Church-in-the-Wood, the wedding took place of Guardsman Graham Percival White. Grenadier Guards, elder son of Mr. and Mrs. Percival J. White, of 13, Senlac Gardens, Battle, and Miss Joyce Isobel Billinness. ATS.. elder daughter of Mr. and Mrs. F A. Billenness, of 1. Wilting Cottages, Hollington. The Rector (the Rev Dr. F. B. Bullock) officiated, and the bride was given away by her father. The best man was I.N. White (bridegroom's brother). A reception was held at the brides home.

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A Glance Back


THIS well-preserved photograph of workmen laying tramlines round the Memorial clock tower was lent to the "Observer " this week by Mr. I N. White, of Senlac gardens, Battle, who was recently looking through his father's collection and found this Interesting record.
These lines were laid early In this century. after much heated controversy in the town. The picture shows a vastly different scene in the centre of Hastings. On the right, a horse-drawn bus can be seen at the bottom of Havelock-road and the number of people walking across the road all In different directions would cause traffic chaos today.

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The Mirror Thursday February 25th 1999

My dad meets Derrick Nimo when he visits ITT in Hastings in the 1970's

The article below appeared in the Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday June 8th, 1912

J.P Eldridge is the husband of my great great aunt. Dorothy Eldride is his daughter



BATTLE.


BAPTIST P.S.A. Mr. J. P.Eldridge presided at thePSA on Sunday, supported by Mr G. Maplesden and Mr. C. Cooper, of Sedlescombe. The address was given by Mr. Reed, of Hastings. Mr Cooper sang a solo, and Miss Dorothy Eldridge was at the organ. Tomorrow (Sunday, afternoon a musical and flower service will be held. The flowers will afterwards he sent to the East Sussex Hospital. It is hoped that there be a large attendance.

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The article below appeared in the Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday November 23rd, 1912

BATTLE P.S.A

At the BATTLE P.S.A. on Sunday the address, was given by W. J. Roberts, of the Congregational Church. Mr. T. Blackman was in the chair and read a portion of Scripture. Mr J.P Eldridge conducted the prayer. Miss K Dray sang a solo and Miss Dorothey Eldridge was at the organ.
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Sussex Express Friday, November 23 1928

Battle Town Band

To the editor of the "Sussex Express"

SIR,- May I beg some of your valuable space for a few remarks regarding the report of a meeting of the Battle Chamber of Commerce in your last issue under the sub-heading, Non Marchers.
The report states bluntly that our bandsman cannot march and is followed by no sort of explanation or comment on this point. In view of your wide circulation among reader outside Battle, to whom our bandsmen are not known personally, we think it only fair that such a bald statement should be followed by a word of reason.
Two of our members, Messrs F.Parks and R.Sellas, in the days not so long ago, though now too often overlooked, marched to sterner accompaniments than brass bands or fireworks and have each returned from Flanders with an artificial leg. Marching to them is therefore an accomplishment never to be repeated, and in our other mebmers (not too numerous at present) are, quite naturally, reluctant to accept engagements in which these two gentlemen cannot participate. This fact was made very clear to the Bonfire Boys Committee when thay asked us to tender for the recent celebrations. To our minds it is therefore, the more surprising, not to say in bad taste, to find one of their number making such unqualified remarks.
But as is well known to the older residents of Battle and the surrounding villages in a wide radius, our older bandsmen have shown their ability to march long distances "with the next" in the more palmy days.
While on this "non-marching" subject it is perhaps relevant to refer to the deplorable attendance of our Town Councillors at the recent Armistice Day parade, when only Councillor Mepham attended to exhibit marching proclivities. Can it have been a whim of Nemesis to have smitten the rest with corns, as was the reason propounded by one of their number upon our bandsmen declining to head the "Bonfire Night" procession.
The report also stated "the Chairman pointed out that the further they went into the villages the better were the local bands." The explanation is not far to seek. Our rural friends receive generous and enthusiastic local support, enabling them to get both instruments and uniform.
Further comment on this score in unnecessary, and we leave our worthey tradesmmen to judge this matter of support for themselves

Yours truly
Walter W. White
Hon Secretary.
Battle Town Band

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