All Saints Church Memorial

The Great War Memorial outside All Saints church

The Great War Memorial outside All Saints church

All Saints Church built a war memorial for their parishioners in 1921; a monument situated outside in the grounds and a tablet inside the church itself.

On this page there is also a transcription of the Reading Chronicle’s references to the All Saints Church starting way back in the 1860’s. It is a magical mix of small local stories and All Saints’ involvement in some of the greatest events of the time.  Our thanks to Jim Bell for the enormous effort made in bringing these stories together

Firstly though here are the stories of the servicemen who are named on the All Saints Memorial; many of which you are likely to find upsetting:

Surname A

Frederick Alexander of Royal Berks : F. de V. Bruce Allfrey of 9th Lancers :

Surname B

Charles A Ballard of Canadian Mounted Rifles : Albert Edward Barker of Royal Berks : William Barker of Royal Berks : David Southon Beasley of Scots Guards : Ernest George Bennett of Royal Berks : John Bird of Royal Berks : Frederick James Bourton of RN HMS Shark : James William Bowyer of Devonshire Regiment : Charles Brackley of Royal Berks : William Brant of Royal Berks : William Walter Brant of Kings Own Royal Lancs : Charles Henry Brown of Machine Gun Corps: Sydney Bryant of RN HMS Queen Mary:  Frank Buckle of RMLI HMS Lowestoft: Walter George Buckle of RN HMS Shannon: Arthur Cranston Buckner of Queens Royal West Surreys: Henry Butler  of Royal Garrison Artillery

Surname C

Gerald Raymond Carey of Royal Fusiliers: Leslie Joseph Chaston of Somerset Regiment :

The All Saints Memorial is situated upstairs in the church.

The All Saints Memorial is situated upstairs in the church.

Harry Chivers of Royal Berks : Alfred A Clarke of Middlesex Regiment: Walter Clayton of London Regiment: Charles H Clements of Royal Berks : John Ernest Collins of Royal Navy HMS Bulwark: Charles Dan Collyer of Royal Army Service Corps: Norman W Cooper of Royal Berks : Samuel Henry Cooper of Somerset Regiment: Hector Corbyn of Royal Navy HMS Cressy: John Edward Cotterell : Machine Gun Corps : John Croome of Hampshire Regiment:

Surname D

John Robert Dance of Royal Berks: William Dance of Royal Berks : George S Dandridge of Queen’s Royal West Surreys : Robert C Davidson of Rifle Brigade: Sidney Arthur Davis of Royal Scots Fusiliers : Horace William Day of Grenadier Guards : Frederick C Dray of Royal Berks:

Surname E

Charles Eales of Royal Berks : George Anthony Eales of Royal Berks: Charles Edward Evans of Royal Marine Light Infantry, HMS Goliath:

Surname F

George Fage of Royal Berks : Joseph Fielder of Berks Imperial Yeomanry: William Fisher of Royal Berks : Arthur G Franklin of Dorset Regiment:

Surname G

Arthur Gibbs of Royal Berks: Frank Goddard of Royal Sussex : William Goodchild of Royal Berks : William C Goswell of Royal Berks:

Surname H

Frederick Hall Royal Berks: Albert W Hallworth Welsh Guards: William C E Hewett Royal Berks: Harry A Hiscock Royal Berks : Sidney Hogburn Royal Berks : William H Holloway Royal Berks:

Surname J

William Janes Dorset Regiment : Alfred T Jeffcock Rifle Brigade: John Alfred Johnson of Royal Berks : William Henry Jones of London Regiment:

Surname K

 Alfred Thomas Key of Royal Navy HMS Rowan: William J Killick of Queen’s Royal West Surreys:

Surname L

Isaac Lamb of Royal Berks: William James Lamb of Royal Berks: Albert Victor Lammas of East Kent Regiment: Albert Edward Langley of Royal Berks: Albert E Langley of Royal Berks : William A Langley of Royal Fusiliers: William S Lawrence of London Regiment: Ernest W Lewer of Royal Navy HMS Tiger: John Life of Oxford & Buckinghamshire Reg: Albert Victor Loader of London Regiment: Samuel Holt Lomax of Cameron Highlanders: Albert Lovejoy of Royal Navy Division: George Lush of Royal Berks :

Surname M

Thomas H Mead of Royal Field Artillery: John Merritt of Royal Berks : Charles Miles of Northamptonshire Regiment: Francis A Miles of Royal Berks: Jesse Reuben Mitchell of Royal Berks: Arthur F W Myatt of London Regiment:

Surname N

William L Newman of Canadian Force : B Hills Nicholson of Royal Fusiliers: E Hills Nicholson of Royal Fusiliers: V Hills Nicholson of Royal Navy HMS Recruit : Charles Norris of Devonshire Regiment:

Surname P

Frank Palmer of Royal Berkshire: Harry Thomas Pink of Royal Marine Light Infantry: James M Plant of Royal Berks : Walter Philip Price Labour Corps : James Thomas Prior Grenadier Guards:

Surname R

William Tom Rance of Queens Royal West Surreys : Frederick J Ricketts of Royal Berks: Charles Henry Rideout of Royal Berks : Arthur Robins of Royal Army Service Corps: Ernest Edward Russ of Royal Berks: William Henry Russ of Royal Marine Light Infantry:

Surname S

James W Sadler of Royal Irish Rifles: Frederick A Sargeant of Royal Berks: Norman H Smith of London Regiment: Richard Smith of Royal Berks: Francis A Stanley of Royal Warwickshire Regiment : Harold S Street of Royal Berks : William Sturgess of Berks Imperial Yeomanry : Edward J Swadling of Royal Warwickshire Regiment : Frederick J Swain of Royal Air Force:

Surname T

William J Thurtell of Machine Gun Corps : Frank Treacher of Royal Field Artillery : Charence H Trill of Royal Navy HMS Ettrick: Alfred Trulock of Royal Engineers : Arthur Turner of Royal Berks : Charles Turner of Worcestershire Regiment:

Surname V

Herbert J Vickers of Royal Garrison Artillery

Surname W

Robert Hugh Walker of Seaforth Highlanders: Alfred W Warwick of Royal Berks :  Edwin Spencer Webb of Liverpool Regiment: William Welsh of Royal Berks: Arthur R White of Queens Royal West Surreys : Roger W White of Royal Field Artillery : William S White of Cornwall Regiment : Harvey L Williams Royal Marine Light Infantry: Sidney W Woolford of Royal Army Medical Corps.

All Saints Church News 1864 to 1920

Sat 16th April 1864

Opening of All Saints Parish Church on Friday 15th April after renovations.

Sat 28th March 1868

VISIT OF THE PRINCE OF WALES

   On Friday, the 20th inst. The meet of the Queen’s staghounds was fixed for Wokingham and in the morning it was rumoured that we were to be honoured by the presence of the Prince of Wales, and this rumour was soon confirmed by the arrival of the Prince’s horses. The hounds arrived in the Market Place shortly before the appointed time and were met by an immense field of horsemen estimated at upwards of three hundred besides many ladies and carriages.

   Exactly at twelve o’clock the Prince, accompanied by his Equerry, Captain Ellis, arrived in a carriage and pair, and having alighted at the “Rose” Hotel, he mounted his favourite chestnut hunter and proceeded through the streets amidst the hearty but respectful greetings of the assemblage to a meadow below All Saints’ Church, where the deer, the celebrated “Doctor,” specially reserved for this occasion was uncarted.

  The Prince looked remarkably well and repeatedly acknowledged the cheers of the assemblage. The “Doctor,” directly he was at liberty, bounded off in the direction of Bracknell, but being headed he turned into the grounds at Buckhurst and from thence went on through Billingbear to Shottesbrook park at a great pace; at the last named place he got into a pond and a check ensued which was most welcome to such of the field as were still in the hunt.

   The “Doctor” was safely taken near Taplow, after a good run. Three gentlemen only were up at the finish. The casualties were numerous, and the Prince had several falls- one soon after starting, his horse, owing to the giving-way of a rotten bank, falling with him. He was, however, immediately up and mounted again, with no worse result than a mark of Berkshire mud on his scarlet coat.

Sat 26th Sept 1874

LAYING THE FOUNDATION STONE OF ALL SAINTS’SCHOOLS

   The ceremony of laying the memorial stone of All Saints’ Church Schools, Wokingham, took place on Thursday. The new buildings are being erected by Mr. Maynard, builder, from plans by Mr. Joseph [Merrle?], architect, Reading. The schools will be capable of accommodating 400 boys, girls, and infants. The total cost, including a teacher’s residence, is estimated at £2,000. Of this, £1,300 must be raised by voluntary contributions, and the rest will be obtained under a scheme of the Charity Commissioners, by the sale of property belonging to a local endowment for educational purposes, known as “Martha Palmer’s Charity.” Contributions amounting to about £830 have already been promised. The site of the new schools is on land situated between All Saints’ Church and the new parsonage house. On Thursday afternoon a large number of people assembled to witness the ceremony of laying the stone. Amongst others we noticed the Rector (the Rev. E. Sturges), John Walter, Esq., Mrs. Walter, Miss Walter, Capt. Morres, R.N., Rev. A.P. Purey-Cust, Rural Dean, Rev. Sir John Hayes, Bart., Rev J.T. Brown, Rev. E. Morres, Rev. H. S.N. Lenny, Rev. H. Parsons, Rev. E.C. Cope, Rev. A. Roberts, Rev. A. Bonney, Miss Morres, Mrs. Redmond Morres, Rev. G. de Vitré, Mrs. Tucker, Rev. H.G. Bird, J.L. Leveson-Gower, Esq., Alderman Goodchild, Mr. H. Lane, Mr. H. May, &c. The children of the school walked in procession to the building, and the clergy and surpliced choir occupied a platform near to where the stone was laid. The ceremony commenced by the children alone singing the hymn “Gracious Saviour, gentle Shepherd.”

   The prayers appointed for the service were then read by the Rector.

   At the conclusion of the prayers the stone was lowered, and Mrs. Walter, after spreading the mortar, and gently hammering the stone with a mallet said,–In the faith of Jesus Christ we place this foundation stone, in the name of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost. Amen.

   A hymn was then sung followed by speeches.

Sat 20th Oct 1888

PROPOSED ENLARGEMENT OF THE CHURCHYARD

   The available burial space in the churchyard attached to the ParishChurch (All Saints’) has become exceedingly small, and it is supposed to again enlarge it. The “Parish Magazine” for October says that the Rector and Churchwardens have been most kindly met by General Crutchley, the owner of the adjoining property, and that there is every probability of the requisite land being obtained.

 Sat 17th Dec 1892

DEATH OF THE REV. G.E.D. DE VITRÉ

   We regret to record the death of the Rev. G.E.D. De Vitré of Keephatch, Wokingham, which occurred on Saturday afternoon. The reverend gentleman was well-known for his neighbourliness, his geniality and generosity

   The funeral took place at All saints’ ParishChurch on Wednesday afternoon.

 Sat 3rd March 1900

RELIEF OF LADYSMITH

    The news of the Relief of Ladysmith was received with great enthusiasm on Thursday morning and in a very short time the town was decorated with flags and banners. A peal was rung on the bells of All Saints Church and a salute of twenty-one fog signals was fired at the Railway Station. At night there was a torchlight procession in which the town band, the Volunteer Band, the Fire Brigade and Boys’ Brigade took part.

 20th July 1901

A NEW CHURCH HOUSE FOR WOKINGHAM

   On Thursday Afternoon, the 11th inst., in most perfect weather, Mrs. W. Howard Palmer laid the foundation stone of the new Church House for All Saints Parish, Wokingham. The ceremony was a brilliant one and among those present were the Rev. Canon Sturges and family, The Rev. E.G. Norris (St. Bartholomew’s, Reading), the Rev. R. de M Nixon and A.P. Carn, the Rev. the Hon. A.G. Campbell, Mr. and Mrs. Melville, Colonel Walker and family, Major Barker and family, Mr. and Mrs. H.B. Blandy, Lady Katharine Eustace, Colonel and Mrs. Ford, Mr. and Mrs. S.A. Hankey, the Mayor and Mayoress of Wokingham, Surgeon-General E.E. Lloyd and family, Mr. and Mrs. C.H. Rose, Mr. W. Howard Palmer, Mrs. Nixon, Mr. Mylne, Mr. and Mrs. E. Ward, Miss Fuller, Miss F. Simmons, Miss Shorter, the Misses Pearman, Mr. and Mrs. Chandler, Mr. and Mrs. Ducroq etc.

   A special form of service had been prepared. After an introductory address the Rector handed the trowel to Mrs Palmer, who laid the stone. Special prayers were then said

   After which the Rector invited Mrs. Palmer’s acceptance of the trowel. The contractor (Mr. Hughes) presenting in addition a mallet and spirit level.

   Mr. Melville, one of the churchwardens, thanked the contributors, and Mr. W.B. Mower also a churchwarden, expressed the desire of the meeting for the successful completion of the undertaking.

   At the conclusion of the ceremony, the large party, at the invitation of Canon Sturges, adjourned to the Rectory garden, where an “at home” was held by Canon and Mrs. Sturges.

   We learn from an official circular that the buildings proposed to be erected are from the designs of Messrs. Morris and Sons, architects of Reading and will include a main hall 45 feet by 30 feet, to seat 300, a committee room 24 feet by 16 feet, a store-room, tea-kitchen, cloak room and offices. The hall will be available for mission services, Sunday-schools etc. and the various meetings connected with the parish and diocese, while the smaller room will accommodate committees, clubs etc. The store-room will receive the various parish property now kept at the Rectory and elsewhere. The cost will amount to £1,600 of which all but £500 is now promised. The Rector has very generously guaranteed the amount needed.

   The “raison d’etre” for the scheme will be evident when it is stated that the increase in the population of All Saints’ Parish for the past ten years is 618, and that 141 houses were built in that period, most of them in actual proximity to the new rooms. It is hoped that the scheme and the building may alike be completed in time, in the words of the circular, “to secure to the parish as a Christmas gift for 1901 a Church House complete, in full use, and free from debt.”

   The treasurers of the scheme, who form the executive committee, are the Rector and churchwardens, the bankers Messrs J. and C. Simonds and Co., and Mr. H. Benstead the hon. Secretary. The general committee includes the whole of the church and parish officers, also the following:- Mr. and Mrs. Arnold, the Rev. the Hon. A.G. Campbell, Lady K. Eustace, Col. And Mrs. Ford, Mr. T.C. Garth, Mr. W.T. Hosler, Mrs. Hughes, Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd, Mrs. Melville, Mrs. Mylne, Mrs. Murdoch, Mr. and Mrs. Nicholson, Mrs. Nixon, Mr. and Mrs. Rose, Mrs. Ward, Mr. T.M. Wescott, Mr and Mrs. Weston.

   The brilliant weather on Thursday contributed in no small degree to the pronounced success of the gathering.

 Sat 7th Feb 1903

ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH BELLS

   The following are the inscriptions found on the six old bells of All Saints’ Church, Wokingham:-

   Treble: T. Mears, London; fecit 1814. 2nd: S.K., 1704. 3rd: S.K., 1703 (tracings of oak leaves and acorn). 4th: T. Mears, London: fecit 1814. 5th:S.K., John Hawes, Robert Hunt, C.W., 1704 (figure of a man). Tenor: Samuel Knight made this, pele; John Hawes, Robert Hunt, C.W., 1703. This bell also bears tracings of oak leaves and acorns.

   It has been decided to re-cast No. 2 and 3 bells, which are out of tune, to quarter turn the other four, and to add two new trebles. The whole peal will be re-hung on a wrought iron frame on steel girders with a new floor between the bells. The work has been entrusted to Messrs. Webb and Bennett, and the cost is £328 17s. The contractors assure the completion of the work by next Easter-day.

 Sat 28th July 1906 Reading Observer

VOLUNTEER ORDERS

   The annual church parade will take place on Sunday next, at All Saints Church. Fall In at the Drill Hall at 10.30 a.m. Dress—Tunic, blue trousers, helmets, and side arms.—By order, D.F. Denis de Vitre, Capt.

 April 1910

WILLIAM BARNARD MOWER

   Mr. William Barnard Mower who some 35 years ago was a well-known corn merchant, &c., in Rose Street, died last week at his residence 63, Peach-street, after a long illness. He was much respected, and formerly held a prominent position in public affairs. He was one of the first Town Councillors on the granting of the charter in 1885, and served continuously till 1903, when, owing to ill-health, he retired. He was Mayor in 1893-4. As Secretary of the Starr-Bowkett Societies of Wokingham and Bracknell, he was still more widely known. For many years in succession, he was chosen Rector’s Warden of All Saints’, which position he relinquished at Easter, 1909, on account of illness. He was twice married. He leaves a widow, a son (Mr. Frank Mower), and two daughters Mrs. J.H. Byard (Wokingham), and Mrs. Slade (Caversham), for whom general sympathy has been expressed. The funeral took place at All Saints’ Church on Monday, the Rector (the Rev. B. Long) officiating. The Mayor (Alderman D.N. Heron), with members and officials of the Corporation, attended.

 Sat 14th May 1910

DEATH OF THE KING

   The sad news of the King’s death cast a gloom over the whole borough and neighbourhood. Flags floated at half-mast over the Municipal Buildings on Saturday morning and throughout the week, and a short muffled peal was rung on the bells of All Saints’ Church on Saturday evening. On Sunday muffled peals were rung at both churches and sympathetic references were made in the sermons to the Nation’s loss.

   The National Anthem was sung at both churches and the Dead March was played on the organ.

   In reply to a telegram sent by the Mayor (Mr. D.N. Heron) the following reply was received:- “BuckinghamPalace, The King sincerely thanks you and the inhabitants of  the Borough of Wokingham for kind sympathy and loyal message.—Equerry.”

 Sat 25th March 1911

EMPIRE DAY

   Wednesday saw flags flying at the Church of All Saints’, the MunicipalBuildings and private homes. Special lessons were given in the elementary schools while the National Anthem and patriotic songs were sung. A parade of all the lads’ organisations was held as usual in the cricket field in the Wellington-road.

 Sat 24th June 1911

CORONATION FESTIVITIES AT WOKINGHAM

ROASTING AN OX IN THE MARKET PLACE

   Very full and elaborate preparation had been made at Wokingham for the loyal and enthusiastic celebration of Coronation Day, and with the principal traders closing their shops on Thursday and Friday the inhabitants generally gave themselves up to merry-making. The proceedings in connection with the festivities commenced at 7.30 a.m. and continued without intermission until 12 p.m. The weather was showery, but nevertheless large crowds assembled at the various functions. The arrangements which proved most successful, were made and carried out under the direction of various committees. Mr. Arthur T. Heelas was the principal organising hon. secretary doing the lion’s share of the work.

   The town was lavishly decorated for the event and several of the houses and shops of the principal residents and tradesmen were most effective. The Decoration Committee, in order to induce the inhabitants to decorate their houses and thereby add to the general gaiety, offered special prizes for the best decorated and illuminated house or premises and for the best decorated and luminous cottage.

   Flags and streamers and 60 fir trees placed in tubs, draped with the Coronation colours-red, white and blue-formed the scheme of decoration arranged by the Committee for the Market-place. In the hands of members of the Fire Brigade was placed the control of the decorations of the Fire Station and the concert stage erected near. Mr. A.W. Poppy provided the fir trees.

   At 7.30 the morning was heralded by merry peals from the bells of All Saints’ and St. Paul’s Churches, and at 10.15 there were special services at both churches, the Rectors (the Rev. Bertram Long and the Rev. H.M. Walter) respectively officiating. The Mayor (Mr. H.C. Mylne) with members of the Corporation and the various Corporation Committees attended All Saints’ Church. The service, according to the form issued by the Archbishop corresponded as closely as possible, but in a shortened form, to that used in Westminster Abbey, and included a shortened Litany, the recital of the solemnities of the Coronation, the Common Service and the “Te Deum,” the whole lasting about an hour and a quarter. The collection taken at All Saints’ Church will be given to the King Edward Memorial Ward at the RoyalBerkshireHospital.

    At 10.30 to 12.30 p.m. selections of music were played by the Wokingham Town Band, under Mr. W. Farr, in the Market-place.

THE ROASTING OF THE OX

   The Coronation festivities were started at 10.30 o’clock on the eve of the Coronation Day by Miss Mylne, daughter of the Mayor, in the absence of the Marquis of Downshire, of EasthampsteadPark, lighting the specially-prepared in the Market-place to roast the large ox, weighing 90 stone, which had been given by the Marquis of Downshire. The ox, on the spit, preceded by the Town Band arrived about eight o’clock via Easthampstead-road, and was paraded through the town before it was put down to the fire. The roasting was continued throughout the night under the superintendence of the Fire Brigade and a strong committee of experienced helpers. On such a great and important occasion of rejoicing as the Coronation of a Monarch the roasting of an ox whole appeals forcibly to the British ideas of celebrating the event, as in the olden time

 Sat 7th Aug 1915

ANNIVERSARY OF THE DECLARATION OF WAR

   Wednesday last being the Anniversary of the Declaration of War, special services were held at All Saints Church. The eight o’clock evening service was well attended. The Mayor and members of the Corporation and officials were present.

 BELGIAN BABIES FUND

   After the services on the last two Sundays a Belgian Red Cross nurse has, by kind permission of the Rector stationed herself at the door of All Saints Church with a box, collecting for the Belgian Babies Fund. She has collected the satisfactory sum of £10 11s.

Sat 1st Jan 1916

THE NATIONAL EGG COLLECTION

   One thousand one hundred and sixty-four new-laid eggs in addition to the weekly collection were sent on December 21st from the Wokingham District Depot as a Christmas gift and gratitude to our wounded soldiers.

Sat 6th May 1916

THE NATIONAL EGG COLLECTION

   From Wokingham and District Depot 102 dozen eggs have been sent this Easter to the above. The following churches have contributed: St. Paul’s, Wokingham 83; Barkham 107; and 2s. 6d. (spent on eggs); All Saints’, Binfield, 140; St. Marks, Binfield, 19; Hurst Church and Hurst collection180. The weekly collection is well supported. Eggs are sent every Tuesday morning, and are gratefully received any time on Monday by Mrs. Dunne, controller, Toutley Hall, Wokingham.

 Sat 18th Aug 1917

SUB-LIEUT. VICTOR H. NICHOLSON KILLED IN ACTION

   News was received on the 11th inst. that Sub-Lieut. Victor Hill Nicholson, youngest son of the late Mr. A.J. Nicholson and of Mrs. Nicholson of Chetwood, Wokingham, was killed in action at sea on August 9. He was 20 years of age. Educated at Wixenford School, Wokingham, he then proceeded to the Royal Naval College Osborne, and Dartmouth. Since the commencement of hostilities he had been continuously at sea, and was present at the Battle of Jutland, May 31-June 1, 1916. Mr. Nicholson and family are well known among the leading families in the neighbourhood and much sympathy is felt for them in their bereavement. The three brothers of the deceased lieutenant are serving as officers in HM Forces. A memorial service is to be held at All Saints’ Church on Tuesday.

Sat 24th Nov 1917

DEATH OF MISS J. ROBERTS

   Miss Julian Roberts, a well-known inhabitant of Wokingham, died suddenly on Wednesday at 5, The Terrace, Wokingham, where she had resided for some time past. She was 80 years of age, and the eldest daughter of Mr. John Roberts, of Wokingham.  Her brother was for some years Town Clerk of Wokingham, and her father was alderman of the old Wokingham Local Board. The deceased was for some time hon. secretary of the Wokingham Habitation of the Primrose League. She was buried at All Saints on the following Saturday. Two of the mourners were Mrs Basnett and Miss Helen Roberts, sisters.

Sat 26th July 1919

Armistice Celebrations

   On Saturday, Wokingham duly celebrated the peace. The proceedings commenced at 7 a.m., when peals were rung on the church bells. At 10 a.m. the town band commenced to play in the Market Place. The officers and men who had been invited to send in their names and had received a card of invitation from the Mayor, assembled in Rectory Road and at 11.30 commenced a triumphal march through the principal streets of the town under command of Admiral J.B. Eustace, assisted by Colour-Sergeant H. Harvey, 4th Royal Berks. Retired, the only man who wore the old red volunteer uniform, and acted as chief marshall. Headed by the Wokingham Military Band the procession proceeded through Broad Street, which had been extensively decorated, the trees and lamp posts being bedecked with national colours, evergreens etc. A large wreath in the centre of the street, “Our bold and brave heroes, 1914-18,” was saluted by the column.

   A triumphal arch had been erected by the corporation from the London and County Bank to Mr. T.M. Welch’s premises, bearing the words “We thank you.” Rose Street was also very gaily hung with flags and streamers, with the motto “Welcome Home” suspended across the street. As the procession emerged from Rose Street against All Saints’ Church the bells rung a peal of welcome. Marching up Peach Street, the procession entered the Market Place through an arch similar to that in Broad Street, but bearing the words “Well done boys.” The Church Lads’ Brigade bugle band were in the centre of the procession and took turns with the military band in providing music.

   The wounded and disabled who were accommodated in two wagons immediately behind the leading band everywhere most heartily greeted.

   Upon a draped and coloured dais in the Market Place, facing Denmark Street stood the Mayor in his robes attended by the Town Clerk, the mace bearer (Sergeant Sparkes), the town crier (Mr. J. Taylor) and the four honorary constables. There were also upon the platform the Mayoress, the Rev. B. Long, the Rev. H. M. Walter, the Rev. A.P. Carr and Rev. J. Conolly, Aldermen Hughes and Sale. Councillors Hammond, Martin, Blake, Whaley, Priest, Brant, Bodle and Headington. Mr. C.W. Marks (surveyor), Colonel Walker, Mayor Hanbury O.B.E., Mrs. Murdoch, Mr and Mrs. W. Howard Palmer, Mrs. H. Walter, Mrs. Eustace, Mrs. Hanbury, Miss Hanbury, Mrs. T.W. Heelas, Miss Sturges, Miss Gregorie, Mr. A Rasey and Mr. William Palmer.

   The cadet band KRR sounded the Royal salute. The Mayor (Alderman Mylne) announced that he had received from H.M. the King, a message to all magistrates and lord lieutenants of counties. The National Anthem was then sung, led by the band, Mr. Yould conducting.

   The Mayor then said, ”Officers and men from the Navy, Army and the Air Force, it is my privilege as Mayor and speaking for all the people of Wokingham to bid you all welcome here today and to render to you our unstinted thanks for all you have done, all you have suffered and all you have gone through in these last few years. We rejoice that it is at last possible for us to meet so many of you after all the hardships you have gone through, since that day in which each one of you took his part in the magnificent response which you made to your country’s call in its hour of need.

   Some of you have been in the navy or army since the beginning of the war. Some of you were in that first army that went to Belgium—an army which I have heard has been called ‘a contemptible little army’: small it certainly was, but there is not a man in the world today, least of all in Germany, who would venture to call it contemptible.

   Others of you who took part, leaving all in that mighty rush of men which changed the British Army from being reckoned in thousands to being reckoned in by millions. You, who have been through it, know what the sacrifices have been. You know even how thin a line, once and again, there was that there was all there was left to withstand the German onrush. You know, too, how indispensable it was that H M Navy should keep a ceaseless and sleepless watch throughout all the time.

   What would our position have been today if that thin line had given way or that ceaseless watch failed for one hour? What sort of peace should we have had today? What would have been our condition? Some of you have been in France and Belgium and you know and can answer that question. But that ceaseless watch was maintained till the last hour and that this line never broke, and when today we are celebrating peace, it is that great and glorious victory, brought about in the providence of God through the valour of the sailors, soldiers and airmen of the British Empire. But in the midst of our rejoicings let us not forget the sacrifices that have been made. Let us not forget that there are some hearts in the Empire today because of those, who, to gain that victory and to win this peace laid down their lives and their names live for ever more. And when we have celebrated this peace today, which we hope will soon spread the world over, let us all stand united as we have done in those dreadful days of war in the last five years, and each in his own part, do whatsoever in him lies, to promote the common good and to bring back with peace prosperity to our native land build up a greater, more honourable and a more powerful Britain than the world had ever known before so that the victories of peace will be no less worthy of celebration than the victories of war. And now we ask you to accept our hospitality and entertainment and we hope that for you and to all of us it may be a happy and a memorable day.” (applause).

   “Land of Hope and Glory” was then sung, the sole being taken in unison by some 20 choirboys, the assembly led by the band joining in the chorus. Miss Edna Martin presented a lovely bouquet to the Mayoress. The Rev. B Long called for “three cheers for the boys,” which were heartily given also  “three more for their wives.”

  THE MEN ENTERTAINED.

   Headed by the town band the procession then marched via Denmark Street and Langborough Road, both well decorated, to Langborough Recreation Ground, near the entrance to which was a festoon of flags with the words “We thank you all who have saved our land.” A line of 16 tables had been prepared on the promenade under the trees across the ground and were very prettily decorated with flowers, etc. The Mayor’s table stood next the entrance, presided over by the Mayoress, assisted by Mrs. Hammond and Miss Powell. The remaining tables were in the charge of: Mesdames Martin and Bolton (plus many other names) and a large staff of helpers. The Wokingham Fire Brigade with their engine cooked the vegetables. The meal comprised cold meat, meat pies, salad, pickles, fruit tarts, jam tarts, jellies, cheese, etc. with beer and lemonade in abundance. Mr A T Heelas made the round of the tables with the usual military formula “any complaints,” and was received with cheers. Grace was said by the Rev. H M Walter. By the kindness of the Guardians and Mr and Mrs Cooper, the committee were relieved of the responsibility of cooking the whole of the meat provided at the luncheon. The fire brigade boiled the water , etc. in their engine.

SPORTS AND GYMKHANA.

   A fine list of events for the sports programme took up the afternoon. The events and prize winners were as follows:

Tent pegging on cycles

Greasy pole

Black and white tournament

Wheelbarrow race

Half-mile flat race for service or ex-service men.

Slow bicycle race (ladies)

Slow bicycle race (men)

Bun and treacle race

Threading the needle

Three-legged race

THE TEA

   About a thousand wives of service and ex-servicemen, and the widows of the fallen, who numbered in Wokingham about 200, were entertained to tea at the luncheon table in a marquee. Both the sports and tea were very successful despite the rain which fell during the afternoon.

   The invitation card bore the white ensign and Union Jack, with laurel leaves in colours, and the word Victory in gold letters.

A GRAND CARNIVAL

The evening carnival was a great success

The Food Control, the organisation of War Savings Associations and the establishment of War Relief Funds.

(Address to the Mayor) The organisation of these many schemes was due mainly to your initiation, superintendence and encouragement without which they would not have attained that success which we gladly recognise was achieved.

   The organisation of these many schemes was due mainly to your initiation, superintendence and encouragement without which they would not have attained that success which we gladly recognise was achieved.

   When it is borne in mind that these multifarious demands on your time and personal engagements have been superimposed on the arduous duties of the mayorality and your responsibilities as Justice of the Peace, we feel that it is only your due that some public recognition, some cordial and formal acknowledgement of your valuable and self-sacrificing services, should form a part of our rejoicing at this auspicious time, and in fulfilment of that obligation we beg to tender to you, on behalf of the inhabitants of the borough and parish of Wokingham, our thanks, in gratitude for all that you have done for the benefit and honour of the town and to offer for your acceptance this silver tray as a token of our esteem.

   We also take this opportunity of asking the Mayoress to accept this silver cake basket as some recognition of our appreciation of her untiring efforts on behalf of the community.”

   The Mayor, who it could be seen, was deeply affected said the presentation came to him as a complete surprise. He felt he could say very little in return for all their kindness but for himself and the Mayoress he thanked them very much. The gifts are the outcome of a proposal which emanated from the council, to which residents were invited to subscribe and the secret has religiously been kept from the Mayor and Mayoress. The subscribers numbered about 200.

   The prizes were then distributed to the successful competitors a capital open-air concert, arranged by Mr. Yould following, this being kept up till midnight on an illuminated stage in the Market Place, and consisting of songs, dances, recitations, glees by the united choirs, etc. At the same time a very spirited company had assembled for the carnival ball in the Drill Hall. For such an occasion, however, even this commodious building was found far too small, and an overflow dance was quickly arranged in the Town Hall. A considerable number of houses were illuminated and midnight brought to a close a memorable day “never to be forgotten.”

   The carnival prizes were then distributed for the following competitions:

                Most effective motor car.

                Trade car

                Novelty on wheels

                Decorated cycle

                Men’s fancy costume

                Ladies’ fancy costume

                Grotesque costume

                Decorated pram

                Tableau car

Sat 2nd July 1921

WOKINGHAM ALL SAINTS’ WAR MEMORIAL

 The war memorial erected to commemorate the services of the men of All Saints’Parish, Wokingham, who fell in the Great War, was unveiled and dedicated on Monday evening with impressive ceremony and in the presence of a very large concourse of the townspeople. The service was noteworthy from its being representative of practically every section of the townspeople and the assembly of all the public bodies and religious denominations. The weather favoured the function and in the triangle of the junction of London Road and Peach Street a very large crowd assembled and witnessed the unveiling by Major-General Sir Reginald Stephens, K.C.B., C.M.G., the Commandant of the Royal Military College at Sandhurst, and the dedication by the Bishop of Oxford.

   The service on Monday evening was in two portions—inside the church and at the cross. The church was completely filled. A procession was formed at the Town Hall, headed by the Wokingham Town Band, and consisting of police and Special Constables, under Supt. Goddard, and the Wokingham Fire Brigade, under Captain Caiger. The Voluntary Aid Detachment also paraded, and marched to the church under Lady Cayley and Miss C.F. Johnson R.R.C. (sister-in-charge of the Church House Hospital during the war). The service was also attended by his Worship the Mayor of Wokingham (Alderman P. Sale, J.P., C.C.). preceded by the four honorary constables and the mace-bearer (Sergt. Sparkes) and other members of the Corpration and dignitaries

A description of the service is given followed by the list of names on the memorial.

 11th November 1936

ARMISTICE DAY

The Mayor and Mayoress attended the Remembrance service at All Saints’, Wokingham, on Armistice Day, and among the congregation was the children of the PalmerSchool. The rector, who conducted the service, was assisted by the Rev. A.G.G. Thurlow. The rector placed a wreath on the Roll of Honour in memory of the fallen of the parish. There was also a service at the war memorial. The Rev. R.W. Tuesday (curate) conducted a service in St. Paul’s Church. The sum of £165 10s. was realised from the sale of poppies in Wokingham and Bear Wood on Armistice Day. The collection was organised by Mr. A. Andrews, hon. secretary of the local branch of the British Legion. The collectors numbered 74, and included the Mayoress. Mrs. Eustace, at the Town Hall, was assisted by General P. Molloy and others. The counting was carried out by Gen. Molloy, Messrs. A. Andrews, J.W. Potter, F.W. Martin, W.G. Fidler, and Miss Hessay. There was an increase of £10 over last year.

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