Wainwright, Harrison
9 July 1872 – 1943
Harrison Wainwright was born, 9 June 1872, to Jane Wainwright (b 1846). It is not known who his father was. Harrison was baptised, 5 January 1873, at Bradford Cathedral. Jane married Albert Ernest Merry (b Banbury, Oxford in 1845) 7 May 1881 in Bradford. They had two daughters;- Louise (b1883) and Sarah Jane (b1866).
Harrison, living in Manningham and working as a woolcomber, married Emily Hudson 26 November 1892 at Bradford Cathedral. They had 6 children, with one dying in infancy:-
Elsie (b1894)
Fred (1896 – 26 November 1915)
Minnie (b1897)
Florence (b1899)
Albert (b1902)
In 1901 the family were living at 146 Hollings Road in Bradford, with Harrison working as a woolcomber. In 1904 they were living at 13 Sun Place in Baildon, moving to 16 Melbourne Street in Shipley. In 1911 they were living at 7 Dove Street in Saltaire with Harrison working as an overlooker. By 1920 they had moved to Bingley.
Harrison died 3 December 1943 at Sydenham Place in Bradford. In his will he left £196 12s 2d (worth £8k in 2015) to his widow Emily.
Walgrove, Harry
14 August 1911 – 1995
Harry Walgrove was born 14 August 1911 in Saltaire to Albert Walgrove and Sarah Alice Sutcliffe. From 1911 to 1927 they lived at 27 Caroline Street, Saltaire (renumbered 1 Ada Street in 1937/38).
In the 1921 Census Albert was a woolcomber at Saltaire Mills.
Extract from a report in the Leeds Mercury 7 June 1924: -
Playing in Roberts Park, Saltaire, last night, Harry Walgrove (13), Caroline Street, Saltaire, slipped from the monument and fractured his skull. He is in critical condition .
Harry survived the fall. From 1928 he lived with his family at 11 Shirley Street, Saltaire. He attended Shipley Technical School, where he passed exams in painting & decorating.
Harry married Gladys Marion Copley in 1938 in Bradford district. Glady was born 28 December 1910 in Bradford. They had two children – Shirley in 1939 and Ronnie in 1944.
In the 1939 Register they were living at 107 Cumberland Road, Bradford, with Harry working as a journeyman painter & decorator.
Harry died in 1995 in Bradford district.
Walker, Jonathan Reuben
20 December 1886 – 1965
Jonathan Reuben Walker was the son of Charles Walker. Charles was born c1843 in Bilton, near Hull. He married Sarah Smith 19 April 1875 at Bradford Cathedral.
Jonathan, the fourth of twelve children, was born 20 December 1886 in Little Smeaton (Selby district). He was baptised six days later at St Peters, Kirk Smeaton.
In 1891 the family were living at Little Smeaton; by 1901 they were living at Browgate in Baildon with Charles working as a gardener.
Jonathan, a twisting overlooker, married Ethel Stead 19 October 1912 at St Johns. Baildon. By 1918 they were living in Saltire, first at 16 Fanny Street, then 7 Dove Street and in 1922 at 17 William Henry Street. In 1929 they moved into a new built house at 1 Dallam Walk in Shipley. From 1936 they lived in Baildon.
Jonathan died in 1965.
Walker, John Edward (Neddy)
13 March 1844 – 26 June 1916
John Edward Walker was the son of John Walker. John was born c1801 in Clifton, near Brighouse. He married Mary Ann Armitage 23 December 1833 at St Peters Birstall, near Batley.
John Edward, known as Neddy, the fifth of eight children, was born 13 March 1844 in Hunsworth, Cleckheaton. The family lived in Cleckheaton with John working a cart driver/labourer and Neddy as a mechanic.
Neddy married Sarah Jane Stead 28 January 1882 at Halifax Parish Church. They had five children: - Ellen (1884-1958), Mary (1886-1968), Herbert (1888-1980), Wilfred (1893-1972) and Harold (1894-1973). All three sons served in, and survived, the First World War.
In 1892 the family lived at 7 Bath Buildings in Saltaire (demolished in 1936). In 1901 they were at 28 Shirley Street in Saltaire, moving to 5 George Street around 1905.
Neddy died 26 June 1916 and was buried in Nab Wood Cemetery. His widow, Sarah, died 2 April 1926 and was buried alongside him.
Wall, Michael
c1849 – 16 April 1900
Michael was born c1849 in Limerick in Ireland. He married Bridget Mary Kenny in 1875 in Limerick. Michael and Bridget had thirteen children, four of whom died in infancy. In 1881 and 1891 they lived at Knottingley in Yorkshire with Michael working as a sail maker. Michael Wall died, 16 April 1900, at 6 Katherine Street in Saltaire of pneumonia exhaustion.
The Wall family includes:
Michael Wall (father)
Bridget Mary (mother)
and their children:
James Wall (son)
Mary Ann Wall (daughter)
Margaret Wall (daughter)
Elizabeth Wall (daughter)
Josephine Wall (daughter)
Alphonsus Wall (son, served in WW1)
Kathleen Wall (daughter)
Gabriel Wall (son, served in WW1)
Francis Bernard Wall (son, served in WW1)
Wall, Bridget (or Brigid) Mary (nee Kenny)
1857 – 28 March 1928
Bridget (or Brigid) Mary Kenny was born in 1857 in Limerick, Ireland. She married Michael Wall in 1875 in Limerick. They had 13 children, with four dying in infancy. Three of their sons served in WW1.
In 1881 and 1891 they were living in Aire Street Knottingley , with Michael working as a sail maker. Michael died, 16 April 1900.
In May 1900, Bridget was reported as being a grocer and provision dealer in Knottingley. In 1901, widow Bridget was a maternity nurse living with her children at 6 Katherine Street, Saltaire. By 1911 they had moved to 11 George Street, Saltaire, where Bridget would spend the rest of her life. Bridget died 28 March 1928.
Report in the Shipley Times 5 April: -
The funeral took place at Nab Wood cemetery, on Saturday (31 March), of Mrs. B. M. Wall, 11 George Street, Saltaire, who died the previous Wednesday (28 March).
Mrs. Wall was well known in the Shipley district, having followed the profession of midwife for 27 years. She retired about a year ago, and had the record of never losing a child. She was 71 years of age.
Prior to the interment a Requiem Mass was held in the St. Walburga’s Church, Shipley, conducted Father Spence.
Mr. G. Wall, son of Mrs. Wall, is the president of the Shipley Catholic Men’s Social Club.
(Note – the Wall family lived at 11 George Street until 1947.)
Wall James – eldest son
28 March 1876– 11 April 1943
James Wall was the son of Michael Wall. Michael was born c1849 in Ireland. In 1881 & 1891 he was living with his wife, Bridget, and children in Knottingley. Michael was a sail maker and he died in 1900.
James, the eldest of nine children, was born 28 March 1876 in Knottingley. In 1901 widowed Bridget was living with her family at 6 Katherine Street in Saltaire. By 1911 they had moved to 11 George Street in Saltaire, where James was working as an engine tender in a factory/chemical works.
He married widow Mary Ann Leach (nee Jennings) 1913. She was born, 26 March 1879, in Shipley. They had a daughter, Mona Leach Wall, born 24 September 1914, and a son, James Leach Wall, born 25 February 1919. Mary had two daughters from her first marriage – Margaret born 1898, and Lucy 1900.
By 1918 they were living at 5 Wycliffe Road, Shipley. From before 1921 to after 1939 they were at 82 Saltaire Road, Shipley.
In the 1921 Census James was a head storekeeper working for Taylor & Parsons Ltd., Bank Street, Bradford. Living with him, his stepdaughter, Lucy Leach, and his uncle, George Frederick Wall, worked at Saltaire Mills.
In the 1939 Register James was working as an ironmonger’s assistant.
James died, 11 April, 1943. Martha died in 1951.
Extract from the Bradford Observer 12 April 1943: -
PROMINENT SHIPLEY CLUBMAN DEAD
The death occurred yesterday (11 April), at the age of 67, of Mr James Wall, of 8 Hollins Hill Road, Shipley. He was one of the founders of Shipley Hospital Demonstration Committee, had been president of the Bradford and Halifax Gas Institute for 21 years and treasurer of the Club and Institute Musical Union Festival for 23 years. He was president of the Shipley and District Working Men's Club and had held office as vice-president, secretary and treasurer. He was the oldest employee of Taylor and Parsons, Bradford.
He leaves a widow, one son and three daughters.
James had three brothers, Gabriel, Francis Bernard and Alphonsus, who served in WW1.
Wall, Mary Ann – eldest daughter
5 October – 20 July 1952
Mary Ann was born 5 October 1877 in Limerick in Ireland. Her father was Michael Wall born c1849 in Limerick in Ireland.
Mary Ann married Benjamin Wiseman Wensworth (born c1874 Wetherby, Yorkshire) in 1901.
In 1901 they were living in Knottingley with Benjamin working as a cooper. Around 1905 they moved to Saltaire, living at 14 Whitlam Street with Benjamin working as a tramway conductor. In 1914 they were living at 19 Jane Street in Saltaire; 1929 found them at 15 Albert Road in Saltaire.
In 1921 Benjamin was a car cleaner working for Bradford Corporation Tram Department. Benjamin died in 1931. In the 1939 Register Mary was living at 41 Leyburn Grove, Shipley.
Benjamin and Mary had nine children:-
Catherine (6 January 1902 – 1979) married James Burden in 1934.
Vincent Michael (1903 – 1966)
Bernard (1905 – 2 December 1976)
Les – (1908 – 1908)
Gerard (1910 – 1939)
Lawrence (1911 – 1980)
Leonard (1912 – 1975)
Terence (1917 – 1922)
Eileen (1920 – 1997)
Mary died 20 July 1952, leaving £292 8s 10d (worth £7.5k in 2015) to her two eldest children.
Wall, Margaret – third child
Relocated to Mill Workers. Complete rewrite, 4 November 2023]
Wall, Elizabeth – fourth child
17 February 1884 – 1970
Elizabeth was born 17 February 1884 in Knottingley in Yorkshire. Her father was Michael Wall born c1849 in Limerick in Ireland.
Elizabeth worked as a twister and a lining weaver. She married Thomas Moore (a grocer’s assistant, born Whitby 1884). Elizabeth died in 1970.
Wall, Josephine – fifth child
1 November 1886 – 1935
Josephine was born 1 November 1886 in Knottingley in Yorkshire. Her father was Michael Wall born c1849 in Limerick in Ireland.
Josephine worked as a lining weaver. She married Dennis Gilbert Moore (a tailor’s cutter, born Whitby 22 November 1885) on 18 June 1914 at St Mary & St Walberga's Church in Shipley. They had five children:-
Leonard Joseph, born 10 August 1915.
Eileen, born in 1918
Bernard, born in 1920
Cyril, born c1923
Winifred, born in 1925
Josephine died in 1935 and Dennis died in Lancaster in 1969.
Josephine Wall marries Dennis Gilbert Moore, 1914
Photograph courtesy of Philip Hoare (son of Leonard Joseph Moore) with thanks.
Left to right, standing - Henry E Moore, Bridget Wall, Alphonsus Wall (?)
Left to right, seated - Rose Margaret Wall (?), Dennis Gilbert Moore, Josephine Moore, Kathleen Wall.
The two young girls are unknown.
For large image follow link >
Wall, Alphonsus - sixth child
1890 – 1959
Wall, Alphonsus – served in WW1 >
Wall, Kathleen – seventh child
15 June 1894 – 30 May 1966
Kathleen was born 15 June 1894 in Knottingley in Yorkshire. Her father was Michael Wall born c1849 in Limerick in Ireland.
Kathleen worked as a lining weaver. She married Henry E Moore (manager of a silk textile mill, born Whitby 1885) in 1918. Kathleen died 30 May 1966.
Wall, Gabriel - eighth child
26 March 1896 – 1969
Wall, Gabriel – served in WW1 >
Wall, Francis Bernard - youngest child
c1898 – 8 September 1938
Wall, Francis Bernard – served in WW1 >
Wallace, James
1870 – 10 June 1915
James Wallace was the son of William Wallace. William was born c1841 in Grassington. He married Jane Chew 25 December 1864 at Bradford Cathedral
James, the fourth of six children, was born in 1870. In 1871 they were living at Idle with William working as a pointsman. William died in May 1880 and was buried in Hirst Wood Cemetery. In 1881 & 1891 widowed Jane lived with her children at 6 Dove Street in Saltaire. In 1881 James was working as a millhand; in 1891 he was a quarryman. Jane died in 1893.
James married Martha Pickard 20 October 1894 at Bradford Cathedral. Martha, born c1864, was a twister living at 31 Helen Street, Saltaire. She died. 27 April 1895, at 12 Caroline Street, Saltaire. She was buried three days later at St. Pauls, Shipley.
Widower James married Grace Hall, 28 June 1896, at Bradford Cathedral. They had five daughters: - Ethel (1899), Bertha (1900), Doris (1902), Lily (1905) and Carrie (1910). In 1897 & 1898 they were living at 11 Caroline Street in Saltaire. From 1899 they lived at 1 Ashley Road in Shipley. James died 10 June 1915 and was buried in Hirst Wood Cemetery four days later.
By 1918 his widow, Grace, was living at 3 Dove Street in Saltaire with her daughters. It was here where she died in 1945 and she was buried alongside her husband 12 December.
Warne, Leonard Percival
21 April 1909 – 13 November 1990
Leonard Percival Warne was the son of Leonard Francis Warne. Leonard Francis was born c1883 in London. He married Florence May Norrington on 16 June 1907 in Bradford. They had three children.
Leonard, their second child, was born, 21 April 1909, in Bradford. In 1911 they were living at 8 Cunliffe Terrace, Bradford with Leonard Francis working as a commercial traveller in the paint trade. He served in WW1 with the Army Service Corps.
By 1919, the family were living at 14 Avondale Crescent, Shipley. Leonard had attended both Albert Road and Shipley Central Schools when was awarded a scholarship to Salt Schools for four years from 1 August 1920.
Leonard married Vera Margetts, 4 December 1935.
Excerpt from a report in the Shipley Times 7 December: -
At St. Peter’s Church, Shipley, on Wednesday (4 December), the wedding took place of Miss Vera Margetts, elder daughter of the late Mr. W. B. Margetts and Mrs. Margetts, of “Strathmore,” Grange Avenue, Hirst Wood, Shipley, and Mr. Leonard Percival Warne, elder son of Mr. and Mrs. L. F. Warne, of “Amalfi,” Parkfield Road, Shipley. The bridegroom is the representative of Daniel Judson and Son, of London, in the Midlands and the North. He is a keen worker at the Saltaire Methodist Church, where he is organist.
The bride was attended by Miss Dora Margetts (sister of the bride), and Miss Sheila Warne (cousin of the bridegroom). Mr. George Warne (brother of the bridegroom) was best man, and the groomsmen were Messrs. Wilfrid Harrison, Arthur Jowett, and Edmund Johnstone (brother-in-law of the bridegroom). After the ceremony, a reception was held at the Connaught Rooms, Bradford. The honeymoon to be spent touring. The future home of Mr. and Mrs. L. P. Warne will be at Cottingley.
Leonard and Vera had two children. In the 1939 Register they were living at 19 Fairy Dell, Bingley, with Leonard working as a confectioner shopkeeper. He was the organist at Saltaire Methodist church when he was called up for National Service in April 1942.
Leonard was nominated as the Conservative candidate in the Shipley East Division for the County Council election in April 1952. County Councillor, Tom Wilcock, retained his seat for Labour when he had a majority of 2,414, polling 3,369 votes to Mr. L. P. Warne's (Conservative) 955. In this ward there was a very moderate poll of 34 per cent.
In 1952, Leonard was living with his family at 2 Ferncliffe Drive, Baildon.
In January 1953, Leonard was reported as being managing director of Anne’s (Saltaire) Ltd., confectioners.
In the Council elections held in May 1953, Leonard contested the Baildon West seat for the Conservatives. He won the seat, polling 738 votes, beating the Labour candidate by 42 votes.
In February 1954. it was reported that Leonard was chairman of the Craven & Airedale Music Committee. He often performed as an organist and conductor.
In the Council elections held in May 1956, Leonard lost the Baildon West seat to the Liberals. He re-gained the seat the following year.
In March 1958 he urged Baildon Council to press for a road bridge rather than a foot bridge at the bottom of Victoria Road, Saltaire, to relieve the traffic congestion in the centre of Shipley. In June 1958, Leonard was reported as being chairman of Baildon Council.
Report in the Shipley Times 27 August 1958: -
COUN. L. P. WARNE CHANGED HIS CAREER BECAUSE HE WANTED TO BE HIS OWN BOSS
What is it that makes a man want to strike out on his own and “To be his own boss?” The spirit of adventure perhaps? The desire to pit one’s wits and will-to-work in competition with others? Whatever the reason, Coun. L. P. Warne. this week's “Personality,” had that urge and left off training for a post as manager in the Woolworth organisation to become first salesman and then head of a local confectionery business which has grown by leaps and bounds since he took over.
From one shop at Saltaire, it has now grown to six under the name of Anne’s Saltaire. Ltd.
Mr. Warne is known as a very proficient organist and plays mostly in Methodist churches as guest organist. And he is of course this year's chairman of Baildon Urban District Council.
He was born at Frizinghall, 49-years-ago, at Lynthorne Road, his father being a representative for a paint firm in London. The first school he attended was Frizinghall Junior School, now known as Frizinghall County School, and he was there about two years leaving when he and his parents moved to Avondale Crescent, in Shipley. This meant he had to attend Albert Road School and there he later won a scholarship and went to the Salt High School, where he remained until he was 17.
He told me he had no certain ideas of what he wanted to be when he was preparing to leave school. His first job was office boy at the Bradford textile firm of W. H. Sutton and Company, and he was “Doing the running about” for two years. He explained to me that jobs in those days were hard to get and that 16 people, all about his own age, had applied for the office boy's job at Sutton’s. It could have been an omen for the future that the then young Mr. Warne got it.
Out of the 12s. 6d. a week he was paid in wages he had to provide for his tram fares and the other incidentals which at the end of the week left him with very little. He then went to a firm of wholesale hosiery stockists, Farnish, Crabtree and Company, in Leeds Road, Bradford, but he had to leave as did the other workers because the firm closed down.
It was at Farnish Crabtree's that he first became interested in salesmanship and he thinks he “fell into it.” When the firm had to close he was about 21.
His third job was at the Keighley branch of Woolworth’s, and he found himself sweeping the floors and working in the stockroom, but he was assistant to the manager after he had been there for only 13 months. He told me it was common with such an organisation as Woolworth’s to put their future officials through everything and every department.
Shop work in those days was a case of real hard work. Mr. Warne had to be in Keighley for 8.30 a.m. and shops closed during the week at 7.0 p.m. or 8.0 p.m. on Fridays and 9.0 p.m. on Saturdays. He still found time, however, to be an enthusiastic member of Saltaire Methodist Church and Sunday School.
His musical talents showed themselves at the early age of 10 when he played the piano and became a chorister at St. John’s Church, Heaton. As a boy of 15 he was a solo soprano in the choir and studying the organ under that great professional musician and resident of Shipley, Mr. James H. Clough.
On leaving the choir at 16 he was appointed permanent organist at Windhill Congregational Church, and it was there that he made his debut as an organist where he succeeded Mr. J. B. Dalby who is now organist at St. Machar’s Cathedral, Aberdeen.
He was appointed organist at Saltaire Methodist Church, again succeeding Mr. Dalby, at the age of 19 and he was their organist for 15 years.
When he was 25, Mr. Warne joined his father's ranks as a paint salesman but in 1939 he decided it was time he launched out into the business world on his own and he was not particular which kind of business he entered—so long as he was his own boss!
It took him only a few months to find himself a business. In conjunction with his friend Mr. Sydney Illingworth, he bought the business of Anne’s Saltaire, which was a milk bar and confectionery shop. They improved the shop and felt they could take another step forward, so it was decided to acquire another confectionery business, that of Carson’s at 27 Westgate, Shipley in 1942.
In 1945 yet another business went over to Anne’s making a total of three shops, the latest acquisition being the old-established sweet shop at Saltaire. known for many years as Minakin’s.
Giving Mr. Warne encouragement and the care he needed in helping to build up the business was his wife Vera, a Bradford girl. They had been married at St. Peter’s Church, Moorhead Lane, Shipley when Mr. Warne was 26.
Mr. Warne remembers with much gratitude how Mrs. Warne managed business affairs during his National Service, even driving the firm’s van delivering and collecting bread and confectionery, as well as looking after their family.
During the Second World War his interest in politics was aroused and after he had given much thought to the political discussions he had heard, and the things he had seen, he took the view that the Conservative Party was a body that could do much for this Country in the future. This was a break from the family tradition, which was Liberal, but again it showed Mr. Warne’s individualistic attitude.
During the war years he was drafted into the National Fire Service, in spite of the fact that he originally volunteered for the navy. He was a founder member of the Civil Defence Ambulance Service in Bingley. After the war Mr. Warne put up for the Central Ward seat on Shipley Urban Council as a Conservative and as expected he was "soundly beaten."
Five years ago he was invited to stand for the West Ward of Baildon Council and this time he was successful. After his three years’ in office he was once again a candidate for the same ward but was beaten. Last year he came back with a bang and was re-elected to represent the West Ward.
With his organ playing now only a part of his many activities and with very little time on his hands Coun. Warne had to cease fulltime playing at Westgate Baptist Chapel, Bradford, where he had been organist and choirmaster for three years.
His public work has been responsible for putting him on several committees, amongst them the Divisional Executive for Education, firstly as an added member and then as a full member on which he served for eight years; a member of the Further Education Committee for Shipley and a manager of the Shipley and Baildon Primary Schools: a member of the Finance Committee of the Executive and the vice-chairman of its Canteens Committee, and vice-chairman of the executive in 1956/57.
I understand that he was voted off the Divisional Executive by Baildon Council in May of this year.
He was the founder chairman of the Area Youth Orchestra Committee under the County Council "Service of Youth” and he is a Governor of the Salt Grammar School.
Of his work as Chairman of Baildon Council. Coun. Warne said he and his wife found the duties very pleasant and interesting and that it was a grand experience to move among the people of Baildon and assist their activities whenever possible.
Mr. Warne has two children, Pat aged 19 who is attending Bradford Technical College and studying for a degree in pharmacy, and David aged 17 who is just starting his studies in Catering and Hotel Management at the School of Food Technology in Leeds. With his "My own Boss" motto Mr. Percy Warne has undoubtedly achieved, not only success for himself, but service for his fellow men.
Report in the Shipley Times 20 January 1960: -
COMING-OF-AGE PARTY
About 100 relatives and friends of Miss Pat Warne, only daughter Conn, and Mrs. L. P. Warne, of 2 Ferncliffe Drive, Baildon, helped her celebrate her coming-of-age a most enjoyable party at the Queen's Hall, Burley-in-Wharfedale. on Friday (15 January) night. Those present included Mr. L. F. Warne and Mrs F. M. Margetts, Miss Warne's grandparents. Indisposition prevented Mrs. L. F. Warne from attending. A toast to Miss Warne was proposed by her uncle. Mr. E. N. Johnston, of Bingley. Mr. David Warne (brother) was M.C. for games and dancing, the music being supplied by Don Haydn's Dunedin Players.
Leonard’s wife, Vera, died in 1984. Leonard died, 13 November 1990, at Flat 5, Ghyll Lodge, Grange Park, Bingley.
Watmough, Ruth (nee Farrar)
24 November 1912 –????
Ruth Farrar was born 24 November, 1912, in Shipley to Samuel Farrar and Maria Slingsby. She was baptised 17 December, 1909, at St Pauls, Shipley
By 1911 they were living at 9 Elliott Street, Shipley, with Samuel working as a coal merchant carrier. By 1918 they had moved to 50 Titus Street, Saltaire.
In the 1921 Census, Samuel was a warehouseman for Unwins, cloth manufacturers in Canal Road, Bradford.
Ruth married Richard (Dickie) Watmough 14 August 1989 at St. Peters, Shipley.
Extract from the Shipley Times 19 August 1939: -
"STAR FOOTBALLER" ATTACK OF "NERVES"
"RATHER FACE 40,000 SPECTATORS"
Dicky Watmough, self-possessed hero of many thrilling football matches, was a nervous bridegroom when he was married at St. Peter’s Church, Shipley, on Monday (14 August) to Miss Ruth Farrar, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Farrar, formerly of Titus Street, Saltaire.
"I wouldn’t be half as scared to play football in front of 40,000 people," he said to a church official.
The wedding took place at 9 a.m. and was a very quiet one. Immediately after the ceremony, the bridal party left by car for an unknown destination.
Mr. Watmough is the son of the late Mr. J. Watmough, Westfield Lane, Idle. He was formerly with Bradford City and Blackpool and won a Cup final medal with Preston North End. He has played for Bowling Old Lane in the Bradford Cricket League this summer.
Dickie was born 25 November, 1911, in Sheffield. He played professional football from before 1934 to 1938. He played 214 games and scored 59 goals.
In the 1939 Register the married couple were publicans at The George Hotel in Leeds Rad, Bradford.
Dickie died 7 September, 1962. It is not known when Ruth died.
Watts, William
1863 – 31 October 1935
William Watts was the son of Joseph and Hannah Watts. Joseph was born c1832 in Halford in Warwickshire. The family lived in Halford with Joseph working as a farm labourer.
William, the third of seven children, was born 1863 in Halford. He married Elizabeth Ann Shaw 25 December, 1889, at Bradford Cathedral. In 1891 they were living in Horton with William working as a house painter. From 1901 they were living in Saltaire; firstly at 1 Helen Street, then from 1907 at 29 Shirley Street.
Elizabeth died 9 July 1915 and was buried three says later in Hirst Wood Cemetery in Shipley. In the 1921 Census, William was a painter working for J Morrell & Sons, painters, Manningham Lane, Bradford .
In 1933, widowed William moved to 40 Annie Street in Shipley. He died 31 October 1935 and was buried alongside his wife. They had seven children, one of whom died in infancy:-
Joseph (b1892) – served in WW1
Maria (1893 – October 1949) – married Edwin Harry Jones 16 April 1921 at St Peters Shipley. Buried in Hirst Wood 31 October 1949.
Edith (1896 – 24 January 1928) – married Ernest Sheard in 1924. Buried alongside her parents.
Minnie (1897 – 23 December 1923) – never married; buried alongside her parents.
William (b 23 April 1900) – accounts clerk; married Winifred Boggett, 23 July 1934 at Ferrybridge.
George (1905 – 1968).
Weston, Edna (nee Schofield)
2 January 1923 –????
Edna Schofield was the daughter of Percy Schofield. Percy was born 5 July 1897 in Bradford. He was serving in WW1 when he married Elsie Taylor, 13 July 1918 at St Peter’s Shipley. The married couple lived in Saltaire all their lives; firstly at 29 Ada Street, then 72 George Street from 1931 to 1936 and lastly at 37 Ada Street until Percy’s death 29 May 1955.
Edna was born 2 January 1923 in Saltaire.
Report from the Shipley Times 15 August 1936:
Edna Schofield, aged thirteen, of 37 Ada Street, will be crowned as the Shipley district’s first “British Legion Queen” at the Legion garden party that is to be held in a field adjoining Ashley Lane, Shipley, on Saturday 5 September.
In 1939 Edna was working as a shorthand typist.
Report from the Shipley Times 7 October 1942:
At Shipley Parish Church on Saturday (3 October) the wedding took place between Trooper Cyril Weston, elder son of Mr. and Mrs. H Weston, of Baker Street, Shipley, and Miss Edna Schofield only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Percy Schofield, of Ada Street, Saltaire.
The bride was formerly on the clerical staff of Messrs. Luxton, Hyde and Winfield, auditors and accountants. Barclays Bank Chambers Shipley. Her mother was organiser of the Glenaire Trio and has helped in many charity concerts. The bridegroom was a member of the Saltaire Mills Home Guard and is now serving in the Tank Corps. He was a former member of the Salts (Saltaire) Football Club. A guard of honour was provided by the Saltaire Mills Home Guard.
The ceremony was performed by the Vicar (Reverend Canon W J Perrett).
Given away by her father, the bride wore a dress of white lace with white tulle veil. She carried a bouquet of pink roses. The bridesmaid was Miss Irene Morley (friend of the bride), and Mrs. Trevor Smith (cousin of the bride) was matron of honour. The bridesmaid and matron of honour wore blue dresses with head-dress of blue organde and veils to match. They each carried bouquet bronze chrysanthemums. Mr. Trevor Smith was the best man.
Afterwards a reception was at the Saltaire Institute.
The married couple lived at the following addresses: -
1942 – 1 Baker Street, Shipley
1945 - 18 Oakfield Drive, Baildon
1947 to 1949 – 27 Woodcot Avenue, Baildon
1950 to 1953 – 46 Saltaire Road Shipley
Whapham, Kathleen (nee Barker)
4 November 1911 – 3 November 1992
Kathleen Barker was the daughter of Joseph Samuel Barker. Joseph was born, 14 April 1871, in Bramley, Leeds. He married Eliza Eleanor Whittington, 26 December 1910. In the 1911 Census they were living at 28 (renumbered 55) Albert Road, Saltaire, with Joseph working as a worsted cloth finisher and examiner.
Kathleen was born 4 November 1911 in Saltaire. By 1918 they were living at 48 George Street, moving to 48 Titus Street around 1922. In July1919 Kathleen finished second in a fifty yards flat race, at the Baildon Woodbottom peace celebrations. In February 1923, as a pupil of Miss Hilda Cooke, of Saltaire, she gave a pianoforte solo at a concert given at the Hall Royd Wesleyan Sunday School. In January 1924 she took part in the children’s party at the Saltaire Conversazioni. In January 1929, as a pupil at Salt Girls’ High School, Kathleen passed with distinction an examination in geography.
Excerpt from a report in the Shipley Times 7 February 1931 referring to an exhibition at the Shipley School of Art: -
The senior students are further represented in the dress and fashion designing. Outstanding in this section is the work of Miss Kathleen Barker and her younger sister, Miss Marian Barker (q.v.).
In February 1932, as a part time student, Kathleen gained a West Riding County Council certificate in general art. In February 1934, she gained first class pass with distinction in applied design; second class pass in drawing from life; and S.E.C. Prize in applied design.
Kathleen married Arthur E. Whapham in 1939 in Surrey. Arthur was born, 7 February 1907 in Leeds. They had two children
They both died at Ashurst Wood in Sussex, Arthur on 18 October 1985, and Kathleen on 3 November 1992.
Wheeler, Charlotte (nee Hinchcliffe)
2 June 1909 – 1999
Charlotte Hinchcliffe was born, 2 June 1909, in Barnsley to Florence Anderson & Thomas Henry Hinchcliffe, who worked as a coal miner.
In 1921 Charlotte was living with her uncle, Herbert Alderson, at 13 Constance Street. In June 1923, Charlotte won the Shipley Shopping Carnival Spotting Competition.
Living at 13 Constance Street and working as a spinner, Charlotte married Harry Wheeler, 4 April 1931, at St. Paul’s, Shipley. He was born, 15 February 1909, and was living at 13 Raglan Street, Shipley. They had no children.
In the 1939 Register, they were living at 5 Hilton Crescent, Baildon. They remined here until after 1960. Harry was working as a wool comber at Charlestown Combing Co. Charlotte was a comb minder.
Harry, who served in WW2, died in 1998. Charlotte died in 1999.
Whittaker, Brook
1862 –????
Brook Whittaker was born in 1862 in Bradford to William Whitaker & Mart Busfield.
In 1881 & 1891, Brook was a quarryman lodging with Hannah Hainsworth at 3 Caroline Street, Saltaire. Between 1882 & 1910, he was fined & imprisoned at H.M. P. Wakefield on numerous occasions.
Report in the Shipley Times 22 July 1882: -
Drunk and Riotous at Shipley.
Brook Whittaker, of 3 Caroline Street, Saltaire, was charged with being drunk and riotous at Shipley, 16 July. Defendant pleaded guilty and was fined 10s. and costs or in default 10 days’ imprisonment.
Report in the Shipley Times 23 December 1882: -
Brook Whittaker, labourer, of Caroline Street, Saltaire, was charged with being drunk and incapable in Saltaire Road, Shipley, 16 December, and as he did not appear, he was fined 10s. and costs.
Report in the Shipley Times 20 January 1883: -
A RIOTOUS INEBRIATE
At the Bradford West Riding Police Court on Thursday (18 January), Brook Whittaker, of Caroline Street, Saltaire, was charged with being drunk and riotous in Saltaire Road, Shipley, on Sunday 14 January.
Defendant, who did not appear, was mulcted in the penalty of 20s., and costs.
Report in the Shipley Times 8 November 1884: -
Worthless Fellows
On Monday (3 November), at the County Police Court, Bradford, Brook Whittaker, labourer, and Alfred Moody, labourer, both of Shipley, were charged with sleeping out at Shipley.
Constable Robinson stated that about half-past two o'clock on Monday morning, he was on duty in Bradford Road, when he entered the brickworks of Messrs. Fyfe and Co., and there found the prisoners asleep in the cabin.
He had had several complaints about Whittaker sleeping out, and on Saturday night (21 November) he knocked down the watchman at Saltaire Bridge, because he would not allow him to sleep in his cabin.
Both the prisoners were profligate persons and did not work.
The bench sentenced each of them to one month’s imprisonment, with hard labour.
Report in the Shipley Times 3 January 1885: -
Refusing to Quit
Brook Whittaker, labourer, of Shipley, was charged with being drunk and refusing to quit. From the evidence it appeared that on 24 December, the defendant was in the Prince of Wales Hotel, when he commenced to create a disturbance, and in consequence the landlady ordered him to leave the house. Defendant refused to do so and had to be turned away by a constable. He was fined 10s. and costs.
Report in the Shipley Times 3 April 1886: -
Bingley Petty Sessions – Wednesday 31 March
Before Titus Salt Esq. (in the chair) and A. Sharp Esq.
A COOL THIEF
Brook Whittaker, labourer, Hudson’s Fold, Shipley, was charged with stealing duck, the property of John Whittingham, grocer, Glenside, Eldwick.
The prosecutor stated that he kept a number of ducks, which went to the beck that runs close by. He saw them all safe about 5-30 p.m. on 28 March, and then left home.
On returning about half-past seven, from information received, be counted the ducks, and ascertained that a white one was missing. The one now produced was his property, and worth 4s.
Harrison Wainwright, gardener, of Eldwick, stated that on Sunday last, about seven o'clock, he was sitting in his own house, when the prisoner came and asked if the ducks outside belonged to him, and from what passed between them witness went and counted the ducks. He missed a white one and followed the prisoner across Shipley Glen to Saltaire. where, seeing Constable Crossley, he informed him of the theft.
The officer named stated that on the night in question be was on duty in Saltaire Road, when, in consequence of what Wainwright told him, he went down Titus Street and overtook the prisoner, who had a bundle under his arm.
Witness inquired what was in the bundle, when the prisoner replied, “A duck,” dropped the bundle, and ran away. The officer pursued and took Whittaker into custody, and on charging him with the offence the prisoner replied: “Yes, I know 1 stole it; it is the first time, and I am caught.”
Whittaker now pleaded guilty to the charge, and said he was sorry.
Prisoner who had been previously convicted at Bradford on many minor offences, was sentenced to two months imprisonment with hard labour.
Report in the Shipley Times 18 January 1890: -
“HE WOULD FIGHT ANY MAN IN SHIPLEY.”
Brook Whittaker, labourer, Shipley was summoned for refusing to quit the Fox and Hounds Hotel, Shipley.
From the evidence of a barman, named Brook, and Constable Shaw, it appeared that on Saturday night (11 January) the defendant created a disturbance in the bar, and when the officer came, he put himself into a fighting attitude and declared that “he would fight any man in Shipley.”
The prisoner had been previously fourteen times before the magistrates, seven for similar offences. He was fined 5s., and costs, or seven days’ imprisonment.
Report in the Shipley Times 3 August 1901: -
SLUMBERERS DISTURBED.
Brook Whittaker, quarryman, and Benjamin Hainsworth, quarryman, both of no fixed abode, and William H. Lee, millhand, of Bradford, were brought up in custody charged with sleeping out at Shipley on 29 July.
Constable Robinson said that about mid-night on the day in question, be was on duty in Wharf Street, Shipley, where he found the three prisoners asleep on some hay in one of the sheds. He asked them what they were doing, and they replied that they did not know. With the assistance of Constable Scruton, he looked them up.
Hainsworth, who had number of previous convictions against him, was sentenced to 14 days hard labour; Whittaker, 14 days' imprisonment; and Lee seven days in the first division, the Chairman saying they would have sent him to a training ship if he had not been too old.
In 1911 & 1921 Brook was an inmate at the North Union Workhouse at Clayton, Bradford. It is unclear as to when he died.
Wilks, Grace (nee Tillotson)
1876 – 4 February 1909
Grace Tillotson was born in 1876 in Shipley to George Tillotson and Martha Harriet Smith. In 1881 they were living at 11 Oxford St, Shipley, with George working as a joiner.
Living at 14 Titus Street, Saltaire, Grace married Major Wilks, 22 December 1900, at St Pauls, Shipley. Major worked as a plumber. He was born, 26 June 1876, in Shipley.
Grace died, 4 February 1909, at 23 Whitlam Street, Saltaire.
Wilson, James Edward
8 April 1884 – 1949
James Edward Wilson was born in Morton (near Bingley) 8 April 1884 to Thomas & Ann Austwick. He was baptised 15 May 1886 at St. Luke’s, Morton.
In 1901 the family were living in Morton with James working as a printer.
James, a blacksmith, married Annie Priscilla Worksop, 29 October 1910 at St. Luke’s, Morton. In 1911 they were living in Keighley. They had twin daughters, Beatrice and Florence, born 12 December 1916.
Between 1915 and 1918 they moved to 48 Caroline Street, Saltaire, where they remained until they moved to Bingley around 1923. In July 1921 James won second prize in the class, Sweet Peas, three bunches, at the Saltaire Rose Society Show.
In the 1939 Register they were living in Bingley with James working as a blacksmith, and his spinster daughters both working as textile cone winders.
James died in 1949. His widow, Annie, died 12 April 1958.
Wilson, Mathew
c1832 – 1884
Mathew Wilson was born c1832 in Bramley. He married Christiana Wray 22 July 1855 at St Peters in Leeds. They had five daughters; Sarah (b1861), Ellen (b1867), Grace (b1869), Florrie (b1872) and Christiana (b1877).
In 1861 & 1871 they were living in Bramley with Mathew working as a stone mason. By 1877 they had moved to Saltaire living at 20 Jane Street.
Mathew died July 1884 aged just 52. He was buried 5 July 1884 at St Pauls churchyard in Shipley. His widow, Christiana, remained in Saltaire, living from 1889 at 17 Jane Street. By 1897 she had moved to 15 Dove Street. From 1911 she lived at 15 Jane Street.
Christiana died 5 October 1914 and was buried alongside her husband two days later.
Winter, Walter Percy
8 December 1867 – 4 August 1950
Walter Percy Winter was the son of Edwin Sims Winter. Edwin was born 1831 in Charlton Kings, Gloucestershire. He married Frances Phoebe Lowe, 1865, in Birmingham.
Walter, their only child, was born 8 December 1867 in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. The family lived in Cheltenham where Edwin worked as an artist and a teacher of drawing.
Report in the South Wales Daily News 27 June 1887: -
Mr W. P. Winter, who has matriculated eighteenth in honours in Great Britain and first in Wales, from Aberystwyth University College, was educated for eight or nine years at Northampton House School, Cheltenham (principal, the Rev. W. Barwell), passing from this school the first-class College of Preceptors, first division, in 13 subjects, subsequently following up his studies in science under the science master of this school (Mr J. Matthews. B.Sc.), at Essex House.
Walter gained a degree in Experimental Physics. In 1891 he was a Professor of Natural Science.
Extract from a report in the Shipley Times regarding a meeting of the Governors of the Salts Schools: -
Mr. W. P. Winter, B.Sc., of Cheltenham Grammar School, was appointed, out of 90 applicants to the post of science master, rendered vacant by the removal of Mr. F. Bastow to Accrington. Mr. Winter will commence his duties at Shipley on 1 September.
Walter married Lucy Elizabeth Howard, 30 August 1899, at All Saints, Cheltenham. Lucy was born 8 May 1867 in Cheltenham. They had one son, Percy Kingsley Winter, born 10 November 1900. In 1901 they were living at 28 Westcliffe Road, Shipley.
Report from Shipley Times 5 June 1908: -
Last Friday (28 May) Mr. W. P. Winter. B.Sc. (of Salt Schools, Shipley), delivered the first of a new series of lectures given under the auspices the Bradford Scientific Association, in the Botanical Garden, Lister Park, Bradford. Mr. Winter took as his subject “The Story the Rocks.”
(Walter delivered many lectures in his time in Shipley)
In 1911 Walter was living with his family at 17a Moorhead Terrace, Shipley. By 1921 they have moved to 20 Hirst Wood Road.
Report from the Shipley Times 7 October 1921: -
An inquest was held on Thursday (29 September) at Horton-in-Ribblesdale, into the circumstances surrounding the death of Percy Kingsley Winter (21), university student, and son of Mr. Walter Percy Winter, science master at the Salt Schools, Shipley, who was drowned while bathing in Newhouses Tarn, Horton-in-Ribblesdale, on 15 September. Mr. W. P. Winter identified the body and stated that he believed his son had been a strong swimmer.
A verdict of Accidentally drowned was returned.
The funeral took place at Hirst Wood Cemetery, Shipley, on Saturday (1 October). Prior to the interment requiem service, conducted the Vicar (Canon Watson), was held at Cottingley Church. Canon Watson also officiated at the graveside.
A large number of sympathisers attended in addition to the family mourners, and those present to pay last tribute of respect included: Miss Puller, Mr. F. J. Fuller (headmaster Boys’ High School, Saltaire), Mr. S. Davies and Mr. G. Morris (members of the staff), and Mr. and Mrs. E. H. Steel.
The pupils of the Upper Fifth Form the Boys’ High School, Saltaire, were also present, and the following Old Boys acted as bearers: Messrs. J. Brigham, A. Spalding, T. E. Thompson, L. A. Stephenson, D. Cook and T. B. Mortimer.
Many beautiful wreaths sent included one from the members of the congregation of the Cottingley Church, another from the headmaster and staff of the Salt High Schools, and one from the boys attending the school.
In February 1929 Walter was reported as being chairman of the “Old Salts” Association.
Report from the Shipley Times 2 July 1932: -
MR. W. P. WINTER, of 6 Grange Avenue, Shipley, present acting head master the Salt Boys’ High School, and whose retirement is to take place in the near future, is popular both in and out or the school with which has been connected 34 years.
Boys often carry away from school a feeling with regard to teachers that mellows in later years into a mere tolerant remembrance, but of Mr. Winter, pupils who have passed through his hands at the Salt School remember him only with affection and respect. Their recollection of him must be as kind, patient and understanding friend who at the same time was very able guide in their efforts. In 34 years many hundreds of boys nave passed through the school under his care, and throughout the world are men who bear testimony to the qualities have enumerated. At no time in a teacher’s career does full realization of his powers for good come more forcibly than it does on his retirement, when he looks back in review upon his years of teaching and recalls the hundreds of pupils he has trained. Mr. Winter can look back upon those years with confidence and pride, and certainly his retirement is a great loss to the teaching profession, to the Salt Schools, and Shipley.
Mr. Winter came to Shipley from Cheltenham Grammar School to take up the position of chief science and mathematics master for the Salt School and the Shipley Technical Institute. Until about a year ago he rendered splendid and valuable service in that capacity and was then appointed to his present position.
The affection and respect in he is borne by the boys who have passed through the school is shown by the position he occupies as president ot the Old Salts’ Association. In the affairs of this body takes an active and kindly interest and has rendered valuable service in its welfare thus his association with boys after they have left school is maintained.
Mr. Winter is the first president the Old Salts’ Rugby Union Football Club, which was formed about two ago.
His interest in geology resulted in his authorship of a book entitled “Shipley Glen.” The book, which a reprint from his contributions to the Bradford Scientific Journal, of which he was one of the joint editors, is an authoritative survey of the geological history of this famous beauty spot. Mr. Winter is a Fellow of the Geological Society and a vice-president of the Yorkshire Geological Society. For a number years Mr. Winter has been different times President of the Bradford Scientific Society, association of which he is still a valued member.
Mr. Winter was a member of the Saltaire Institute Committee when the lectures and other gatherings were held at Saltaire and served the Institute as a member of the Committee all the time it was in existence.
Walter died 4 August 1950.
Report in the Shipley Times 3 January 1951: -
Mr. Walter Percy Winter, of 6 Grange Avenue, Shipley, a former acting headmaster of Salt High School, a recognised authority on spiders, who died intestate, left £1,537 (net £1,485).
Walter’s widow, Lucy, died at Salts Hospital 1 February 1952. In her will she left £7,391 6s 10d.
Witts, Thomas Wilson
24 November 1856 – 4 April 1941
Thomas Wilson Witts was born, 24 November 1856, in Burley-in-Wharfedale, to Hiram Witts & Mary Ann Mason. In 1871 they were living at 6 Constance Street, Saltaire. Thomas was a pupil teacher and his father a weaver.
Extract from a report in the Bradford Daily Telegraph 12 January 1877 referring to a meeting of the Eccleshill School Board: -
There were three applications for the post of assistant master for Undercliffe Mixed School, and Mr Thomas Wilson Witts, of Saltaire, was unanimously appointed.
In 1881, Thomas was an unemployed schoolmaster living with his parents at 3 Harold Place, Saltaire. In 1890 he married Sarah Booth. She was born c1860 in Windhill. They had two sons – William born 1893 and Alfred born 1897. Alfred, serving his country in WW1, was killed in action in 1916.
In 1891, Thomas was a local board surveyor living with his family in Haverhill, Essex. From 1901 to after 1921 they were living at Royston in Hertfordshire, where Thomas was the surveyor & sanitary inspector for Royston Urban District Council. Thomas was an accomplished singer, performing in public on numerous occasions. His wife, Sarah, died 14 January 1923 in Royston.
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In the 1939 Register Thomas was an assistant rating officer living in Heathfield, Cambridgeshire living with son William and his family. Thomas died, 14 April 1941, in Royston. He was buried with his wife in Royston Cemetery. In his will he left £1,278 13s 1d to his son, William.
Woods, Rebecca (nee Wade)
18 November 1867 – 1943
Rebecca Wade was born, 18 November 1867, in Debenham, Suffolk, to George Wade and Catherine Forsdyke. They lived in Debenham where George worked as a bricklayer’s labourer.
Rebecca married William Wade in 1886 in Bosmere, Suffolk. William was born c1864 in Wetheringsett, Suffolk. They had at ten children, with three dying as infants.
In 1891 & 1901 they were living in Wetheringsett where William worked as an agricultural labourer. William committed suicide, 25 April 1906
Report in the Evening Star 27 April: -
An inquest was held at Wetheringsett on Thursday (26 April), before the Deputy County coroner (L. Vulliamy, Esq.), upon the body of William Woods, agricultural labourer.
The widow stated that deceased left home about six o’clock on Wednesday (25 April) morning for work. She had never noticed him to suffer from depression and was not aware that he had monetary difficulties.
William Pyett, agricultural labourer, said he worked for Mr. Aldred, of Wetheringsett. Shortly after six o’clock on Wednesday morning, he went into the stackyard, and saw the deceased hanging from a ladder against a wheat stack. Witness at once ran for Mr. Aldred, who was nearby.
Mr. Edward Alred, miller and farmer, said the deceased's feet were about twelve inches from the ground. Witness moved the ladder from the stack, and deceased fell, apparently dead. The body was warm. Witness felt the pulse but could detect no signs life.
Mr. H. T. Dutton, surgeon, said that at half past seven on Wednesday morning he was called to the deceased. Life was extinct. There were the marks a rope round the neck. The cause death was asphyxia, from hanging.
The Jury found a verdict “Suicide whilst temporarily insane.”
In 1911 widow Rebecca was living in Wetheringsett with her seven children.
By 1921 she was living at 5 Katherine Street, Saltaire with five of her children. She remined there until after 1939.
Report in the Yorkshire Evening Post 4 December 1922: -
At Bradford today (4 December) Francis Swift, an elderly widow, was remanded for a week in connection with a charge of obtaining food by false pretences from Mrs. Rebecca Woods, Saltaire.
It was alleged that the accused describing herself as an educational official from Blackpool, doing important work at Saltaire schools, obtained board and lodgings without payment.
Mrs. Woods became suspicious and communicated with the police.
Rebecca died in 1943.
Woodward, Florence (nee Burke)
3 May 1897 – 1980
Florence Burke was born 3 May, 1897, in Addingham. In the 1921 Census she was living with her siblings at 21 Shirley Street, Saltaire. She was described as doing home duties.
Florence married Squire King Woodward, 9 September, 1922, at St. Peters, Shipley. Squire, born 18 April, 1897, in Saltaire, was a dyer’s labourer living at 10 Albert Terrace. They had a son, Kenneth, born 21 July, 1925. They lived at 9 Herbert Street, Saltaire.
Extract from the Shipley Times 10 May 1944: -
A SCANDALOUS STORY: SALTAIRE SLANDER CASE
Awarding damages at 25 guineas, with costs in a Saltaire slander case at the Leeds Assizes on Tuesday (9 May), Justice Oliver remarked that "It was a scandalous story." However, he didn’t think it necessary to award heavy damages, because while such a story might have done infinite harm, he did not think in the result that any great harm had been done.
The case was one in which Dorothy Crook, aged 23, of Saltaire Road, Shipley, claimed damages against Mrs. Sarah Hudson, of 20 Jane Street, Saltaire, for alleged slander.
Four other women who had been cited as defendants in the action, and whose payments into court of small sums had been accepted by the plaintiff, were: Mary Bower, a married woman, of Jane Street, Saltaire; Theresa Garretty, a spinster, of Jane Street, Saltaire; Annie Thornton, a married woman, of Catherine Street, Saltaire; and Florence Woodward, a married woman, of Herbert Street, Saltaire.
The plaintiff, whose husband had been serving in the Middle East since 1941, alleged that Mrs. Hudson was the originator of a statement that had gone round like wildfire, the inference of which was that she (the plaintiff) had an illegitimate child and had, therefore, committed adultery. It had given rise to a rumour which was quite untrue.
Mrs. Hudson, in the witness box, declared that Mrs. Crook was herself to blame for the story, alleging that the plaintiff told her, when they met in the street in November last, that she had been in a nursing home and had had a baby. The witness said that when she repeated this, she did not realise that Mrs. Crook’s husband had been away too long to be the father of such a baby, and she never intended the innuendo now suggested.
His Lordship said he was prepared to believe that Mrs. Hudson did not invent the scandalous story about Mrs. Crook, and that she had put a wrongful construction on what she had been told by the plaintiff. Nevertheless, he was satisfied that those to whom she told the story accepted it as an accusation that the plaintiff had committed adultery.
In 1945 they moved to 1 Marlott Road in Shipley where they remained until after 1960.
Florence died in 1980.
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