February 1918
Isle of Wight Observer:
Feb 2nd 1918: MARGARINE QUEUES – These seem to be becoming pretty frequent in the town and on Wednesday things were not altogether pleasant, as disputes arose as to precedence, there being several claimants on the ground that they “were there first.”
Feb 2nd 1918: BAD BUSINESS – Butchers representing 27 businesses in the Isle of Wight went to Southampton Market last week and all they were able to secure was three sheep and five bullocks. It is stated that their ordinary purchase would be 35 Bullocks and 200 sheep.
Feb 2nd 1918: MONSTER CRANE – The monster crane that has previously visited Ryde, on two occasions crossed the Solent again on Thursday for the purpose of taking across to the Mainland two of the I.W. Central Railway engines. Crowds of people watched the lifting of the engines from the pier to the deck of the crane, the giant picking up the engines with as much ease as the small pier cranes lift a crate of luggage.
Feb 9th 1918: IN AID OF THE CRECHE – The Jumble sale held at the Trinity Hall last week in aid of the Creche, which is now established at “Westward,” Argyll Street, resulted in a sum of £30.6s.8d. being cleared. The care of infants and young children is of such vital importance in these times, that it is hoped the townspeople will take a greater interest and so enable its sphere of usefulness to be extended.
Feb 9th 1918: GUN FIRING – It is officially notified that firing on suitable days from forts in Portsmouth and the Island during this week, and night practices, will be carried out on February 5th, 6th, and 7th.
Feb 9th 1918: FOOD FOR VISITORS – The question as to what arrangements—if any—are to be made to ensure supplies of meat, sugar and other provisions for visitors in the summer season is one that closely concerns Ryde in common with the other towns of the Island. British Federation of Health and Holiday Resorts, is now making representations in the right quarter with a view of getting an official announcement.
Feb 9th 1918: MILITARY CROSS – Lieutenant Douglas KEMP, son of Mr. and Mrs. KEMP, of Temple House, George Street, was among those who received the Military Cross at the hands of the King on Saturday. We congratulate Lieutenant KEMP upon the honour he has so well won.
Feb 9th 1918: PAPER SHORTAGE – Illustrating the serious paper shortage and the difficulty getting supplies, we notice that a local tradesman is offering one penny per dozen for any description of paper bags, and yet there are some people who fail to see why they should pay more for their printing and why advertising space in newspapers is dearer than it was in pre-war days.
Feb 16th 1918: THE BURLESQUES – This popular Concert party paid a return visit to Ryde on Wednesday and gave their unique and delightful entertainment to good houses in the afternoon and evening. Their programme which was well varied, embraced many new items and the whole show went with a swing.
Feb 16th 1918: WAR HOSPITAL SUPPLY DEPOT – We are asked to remind the public that there is still an urgent demand for mittens, mufflers, socks, and helmets for the wounded in the several hospitals, and these will be gratefully received at the War Hospital Supply Depot, Union Street.
Feb 16th 1918: ACCIDENT – On Monday a man named Frederick LANE living at Church Street, and employed by Messrs. SWEETMAN, was thrown off his bicycle by the machine swerving at the junction of High Street and Star Street. He was picked up and taken into the Brewery where he was seen by Dr. PRIDMORE. After further examination he was removed to the Royal County Hospital. (more about F. LANE here)
Feb 23rd 1918: PROPERTY SALE – A property sale at the Manor Auction Rooms on Wednesday evening. There were nine lots, including a pair of Cottages in Bettesworth Road Nos 1 and 2 Coronation Cottages, producing a rental of £28.12s.0d. fetched £350.