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Normandy in the Press
Normandy in the Press
1900 to 1907

“Normandy in the Press” presents a past view and happenings of the village as seen from selected reports and articles in the local papers. The reader should note that until 1955 Normandy was predominantly part of Ash, Willey Green was part of Worplesdon and a small part of Flexford was in Wanborough.

The researched material held at County Libraries and Record Offices was hand-copied over a number of years by society member Peter Trevaskis. Those notes have been subsequently transcribed by members: Alan Norris, Eira and James Nursaw; Emma Rafferty; Peter Blakiston and Stephen Cranstone.

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure correctness in the copying and transcribing, readers are advised to refer to the original newspaper source for the full account.

Normandy in the Press Index
*****

1900 January 6th
Surrey Advertiser, County Times, Berkshire Standard, Kingston and Surbiton Gazette, Surrey News and Farnham Standard.
Wanborough
Seasonable Benevolence

On Christmas Day a treat was provided for the choirboys and mothers of children of the village at the thoughtful kindness of Mrs White of Wanborough Manor. After tea the guests to the number of 45, assembled in the dining room of the Manor House, where a brilliantly lighted Christmas tree, laden with presents had been prepared, and when Father Christmas made his distribution no one was forgotten. The poor and sick in the village have also been well looked after this Christmas by Mrs White, whose kindness has been much appreciated.
1900 January 13th
Surrey Advertiser, County Times Berkshire Standard etc.
Ash Parish Council meeting held in schoolroom,
Ash Common on Monday evening.
The Chairman, Mr F G Britten, read a report presumably from the Committee appointed in connection with the setting out and fencing of the Wyke recreation Ground. He said that the land Mr Chester had let to the benefit of Wyke and Normandy had been inspected, and stumps had been driven in, and the measuring of the ground had taken place. There were three distinct plots of ground in the area comprised in the recreation ground; there was one belonging to the parish, another to the school, and a third to Mr Chester. The ground was rough, covered with heath, bramble and gorse and self-sown fir tress.
(Lengthy report)
 
Argument between Col Coussmaker and Chairman.
 
Technical classes.
The following prizes in connection with the Technical Education Classes of 1898-1899 have just been awarded. For regular attendance at the cookery class - Miss Florence Payne and Miss Ellen Payne, First Aid class, Miss Florence Payne and Miss Ford.
1902 July 12th
Surrey Advertiser
Pirbright
The Coronation festivities

We understand that the Coronation Fetes which Lord and Lady Pirbright had intended to give at Pirbright and Normandy in honour of the Coronation will not take place till after the actual Coronation.
1902 August 9th
Surrey Advertiser
Pirbright

Successful Coronation Fete, Lord Pirbright's munificence - owner of Henley Park, interesting presentations. (Very long report)
1902 August 23rd
Surrey Advertiser

Motor bikists' adventure!
1902 September 20th
Surrey Advertiser
Wyke and Normandy
Interesting marriage

On Wednesday week, in the church of St Marks, Wyke, there was celebrated the wedding of Mr A E Thurgood of Guildford and Miss A G Lucas of Wyke Lodge, Normandy. The bride was given away by her father, and was attired in white liberty silk, trimmed with duchesse lace, and she wore a veil of Brussels net with wreath of orange blossoms, and carried a bouquet of lilies, roses and white heather, the gift of the bridegroom. Her ornament was a gold necklet with pendant, also the gift of the bridegroom. The four bridesmaids, the Misses Esther and Ruth Thurgood (sisters of the bridegroom) and the Misses Dorothy and Ella Lucas (sisters of the bride) wore green muslin dresses, trimmed with lace, and picture hats with roses. They had gold bangles, the gifts of the bridegroom, and carried bouquets of roses. The officiating clergyman was the Rev C F Andrews MA, cousin of the bride. After the ceremony Mrs Lucas held a reception at Wyke Lodge, where the wedding guests partook of luncheon. Later in the day, the happy pair left for Derbyshire. The presents were very numerous and handsome.
1902 September 27th
Surrey Advertiser
Advertisement
Old false teeth bought

Many people have old or disused false teeth, which might as well be turned into money. Messr R O and J B Fraser Ltd of Princes Street, Ipswich (est. 1833) buy old false teeth. If you send your teeth to them they will remit by return of post the utmost value, or if preferred, they will make you the best offer and hold the teeth over for your reply. If references necessary - apply to Messrs Back and Co, Bankers, Ipswich.
1905 August 26th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy

During the past six weeks three large batches of children from London have spent a fortnight each here, staying at various houses. They evidently enjoy the country very much and are loath to return to the metropolis. The final contingent returned home on Thursday last, all carrying large bunches of flowers.

1905 September 23rd
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy

A great improvement is being effected by the laying of water mains by the Frimley and Farnborough District Water Co, at present as far as the Vicarage. It is to be hoped the system will soon be further extended.

1905 September 30th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy

Harvest festival services were held at St Marks Church on Sunday, being attended by very good congregations. The musical portion of the services including Simper's anthem - 'Ye shall keep the last of harvest'- in the evening, were very well rendered by the choir, Mr Dyson effectively singing the solo in the anthem. Mr Blaber presided at the organ, playing Handel's 'March in Sand' as the concluding voluntary. The vicar the Rev N Pickford preached at both the services. Much credit is due to Mrs Ewing, Mrs Pickford, the Misses Stedman, Miss Page, Miss Pockie and Miss Hayward for the tasteful decorations. The offertories were in aid of the Royal Surrey County Hospital.
The Conservative van visited Normandy on Monday, taking up a position in front of the Anchor Inn. In the evening Mr Aver of the Central Conservative Association delivered an audience considering the unfavourable state of the weather.

1905 October 14th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy
Harvest Thanksgiving

On Sunday afternoon last the annual harvest thanksgiving service was held in the Congregational Chapel, which had been prettily decorated under the superintendence's of Mrs Cranstone. The Reverend Alex Cowe of Guildford conducted the service. There was a good congregation, and the singing of Mr and Mrs Hamson of Guildford was greatly appreciated. The flowers and vegetables were sent to the Royal Surrey County Hospital and the collection devoted to the Evangelistic fund.

1905 November 18th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy
The Wesleyan Church

On Sunday last anniversary services were held at the Wesleyan Church, and were attended by good congregations. The preachers were the Reverend J B Barrow-Clough in the morning, and Mr W G Nicklin in the evening. Miss Deedman presided at the organ. A public meeting in connection with the Wesleyan Methodist Missionary Society was held on Tuesday evening, Mr H Heyward of Normandy Manor being in the chair. The Reverend Walter Seend formerly in North India and Bombay delivered an interesting address. Other speakers being the Reverends E Weaver and John A Farrow Clough. The collections and boxes realised over £4, which was considerably more than last year.
Concert
On Friday evening a concert was given in the schoolroom in aid of the Parochial Nursing Fund. A large audience assembled, ensuring a financial success. The following gentlemen contributed various items to the programme - Messrs Barber, Drewitt, Dyson, Head, Hagger and Rickard, and a party of military friends from Aldershot. Mrs Dyson played the accompaniments. The vicar, the Reverend N Pickford proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Mrs Coussmaker, the promoter of the concert, and to the performers for their kind services.

1905 December 30th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy
Christmas time

St Marks Church and the Wesleyan Chapel were prettily decorated for Christmas, and the services were very hearty at the former. After evensong carols were sung by the choir on Christmas Eve. The post bags both incoming and outgoing were heavier than usual this year, but the increased work was effectively dealt with by Mrs Underwood.

1906 January 6th
Surrey Advertiser
Sunday School Treat
On Monday evening a treat was given by Mrs Stevens to the children attending the Church Sunday School. Afterwards, Miss Stevens presented bags of sweets to each child and the Reverend and Mrs Pickford presided over a Christmas tree, from which each child received a very nice present. In addition to those already named other helpers towards the evening's enjoyment were Mrs Forest and Mrs Ewing. Before dispersing votes of thanks were given to Mrs and Miss Stevens and Mr Ewing for the use of the boarded room and to the Vicar and Mrs Pickford, the last being proposed by one of the boys. As the scholars passed out each received a bun to munch on the way home.

1906 January 13th
Surrey Advertiser
Domestic tragedy at Normandy

Mother kills her child - wilful murder
Daughter of Mrs Noble, St Annes, Station Road, Normandy, killed by mother while nurse was out of room. (Long report)
 
Advert: -
Mr J Welford Bentley -Grocer etc. Gate H, Hollands, is the local agent for the 'Surrey Advertiser' and 'County Times'.
Mr A J Hosking - Newsagent etc - will also attend to orders entrusted to him.

1906 January 13th
Surrey Advertiser
School Children Entertained.
The children attending the Wesleyan Sunday School were afforded a very pleasant evening through the generosity of Mr Hayward of Normandy Manor. Forty-four young ones were made merry one evening and thirty-seven older ones the next night. A good tea was provided with sweets, fruit, bonbons and their supper. The teachers on each occasion gave valuable assistance

1906 January 13th
Surrey Advertiser
Supper and Concert.

On Thursday evening of last week the members of the Institute to the number of forty were entertained to a beautiful supper presented by the ladies of Wyke and Normandy on the initiative of Mrs Ewing. The following acted as waitresses; Mesdames Ewing, Bentley, Forrest, Dyson, the two Misses Stedman, Hunt, Grisby, Haywood and Gibson. After supper the rest of the evening was spent in harmony, items being contributed by Misses Stedman, Hunt and Grisby, Messrs Dyson, Hayward and Rickard and some of the members. Altogether a most enjoyable evening was spent and when Col Coussmaker proposed a vote of thanks to the ladies, it was carried with acclamation. The remains of the feast were distributed amongst the poor and this action has been much appreciated.

1906 January 19th
Aldershot News
Conservative Meeting at Wyke - Lady Cecil's speech
Noisy Interruptions
On Monday evening at the Wyke School, a meeting was held in Support of Lord Bingham the Conservative and Unionist candidate.
Very Long Report

1906 January 20th
Surrey Advertiser
Wyke

Mr P G Henriques (Normandy Park) presided at a meeting in the Schools on Monday evening when, despite the inclement weather, the room was crowded. Lady Edward Cecil made an effective speech dealing with Home Rule and the Chinese labour problems. Col Amand also spoke on Home Rule and Tariff Reform, and a vote of confidence in Lord Bingham was carried with a couple of dissentments, on the motion of Mr J J Miles, seconded by Col Coussmaker.
 
Normandy
Trial of Beatrice Noble (33). See report January 13th (long report)

1906 February 10th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy

On Friday evening in last week, a games tournament took place at the Institute between teams representing Normandy and Pirbright. After an interesting struggle the latter won by one point, the scores being fourteen to thirteen. Refreshments were provided and a very enjoyable evening was spent. Contests took place in chess, boxing, dominoes, cribbage, draughts and whist.

1906 March 10th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy Murder

Beatrice Noble, of Station Road, Normandy, Ash. Judge proclaims her a criminal lunatic. (Long report)

1906 April 14th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy

Alleged overstocking of game.
Mr John Gillet of West Flexford Farm, Wanborough sought to obtain £75 from Richard Sharpe, shooting tenant of the farm. (Long report)
 
Miniature Rifle range - The miniature rifle range erected to give the youths and young men an opportunity of learning to shoot, was opened on Saturday evening, and a good number attended and firing proceeded briskly. It is mainly due to the efforts of Col Coussmaker that the range has been started.

1906 April 28th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy

Lady Pirbright has contributed £50 towards the fund for the extension of St Marks Churchyard. The new portion has been fenced in, and it is hoped that shortly it will be consecrated.

1906 May 18th
Aldershot News
Ash Parish Council
(Monday 13th May ) - Wyke Recreation Ground
Improvements have been suggested, it was decided that the committee should visit the ground, and report to the next meeting.
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Basis for the County Rate
It was stated that the basis of the County Rate for the Parish of Ash and Normandy had already been raised from £24,996 to £25,904, that being the difference between the rateable value to the parish in 1904 and that in 1905 as shown by the valuation links.

1906 June 1st
Aldershot News
Ash - Electric Light Railway

Residents in Ash view with interest the prospect of an electric light railway service passing through the village and connecting it with Farnborough and Aldershot. The people living in the centre of Ash have to walk at least half a mile, and in many cases the distance is over two miles to the nearest railway station at North Camp, L.S.W.R. or Ash Junction, S.E. & C.R. The trams are planned to run from Farnborough, over the canal bridge, along the Shawfields Road, and so by way of Ash Road to Aldershot. This would be a boon to hundreds of people in Ash, especially in winter time, when the roadways are deep with mud.

1906 July 14th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy

Mr S. Walford Bentley, Grocer etc. (late H. Hollands) is the local agent for the 'Surrey Advertiser and County Times', advertisements and papers ordered through him will receive prompt attention.

1906 July 14th
Surrey Advertiser
Ash Parish Council - Wyke Recreation Ground

Mr Bateman, on behalf of the Recreation Grounds Committee, requested that a considerable outlay would be involved in putting the Wyke Recreation Ground into proper condition. He said all the Fir trees and undergrowth must be cleared away, and nothing could be done under £50. The consideration of the matter was adjourned.

1906 July 28th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy - Accident to a cyclist

On Sunday evening a cyclist, a soldier in the Army Service Corps, when passing a motorcycle at the sharp bend of Willow (!) Green, ran into a trap with considerable force and was much bruised and shaken. He was assisted into Mr Cranston's house, and afterwards taken to Aldershot in a carriage lent by two ladies who were passing immediately after the accident. He came out of hospital on Thursday.
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School Prizes
The prizes for attendance and good work at Wyke School were distributed on Thursday by Lady Roberts of Henley Park - the awards consisting of books and useful articles. The vicar (the Rev. N. Pickford) thanked her ladyship, and the children gave her three hearty cheers.
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Annual Treats
The scholars attending the Wesleyan Sunday School were given their annual treat last Monday. By the kindness of Mr H. Hayward they spent a most enjoyable time from two o'clock until dusk, in the Home Meadow, having races, games etc., prizes of a useful kind being given. A beautiful tea was provided, Mrs Marshall catering, and Mr Hunt lending a rick cloth for the tent. Contributing to the expenses were Col. Coussmaker: Dr. H.M. Chester: Sir Owen Roberts: Mr H. Hayward and William Deadman.
On Wednesday the children attending the Church Sunday School met at four o'clock on the lawn of the Vicarage, where they enjoyed a good tea, many London children being also included in the party. Afterwards races and games were indulged in. The prizes for attendance were also distributed. The Vicar and Sunday School teachers, and also many parents and friends assisted in the arrangements.
The choir of St. Marks Church had their annual outing on Monday, a very pleasant day being spent at Folkestone. The party, with friends, numbered sixty.

1906 August 4th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy - Cottager's Show

The Annual Show of Cottagers garden produce, open to the residents of Wyke, Normandy, Flexford and Wanborough, was held by the kind permission of Lt. Col. Coussmaker of Westwood on Wednesday afternoon, and was a great success.
There was a very good exhibition of fruit, vegetables and wild flowers in one tent while in another needlework and other useful articles and sweets were on sale and teas provided. Two ladies helping in this department were Mrs and Miss Coussmaker, the Misses Stedman, Miss Deedman, the Misses Morgan,, Mrs Ewing, Mrs Bird, the Misses Page and Mrs Stables. The children attending the Wyke School were provided with an abundant tea. Racing took place during the afternoon and evening, under the superintendence of Messrs Hayward, Blaber, Ridler and Woods. Two cricket matches were played. In one, the ladies under the captaincy of Miss Horne, scored 79, (Mrs S. Grisby 11, extras 44) beating two gentlemen, who were restricted to the use of the left hand, and could only put together 57 (J. Horne - 13, R. Hammond 12). In the other match Shawfield, Ash 63 (Cheswell 16, Simpson 15) beat Normandy 48, although for the latter T. Ward performed the hat trick. The band of the Shaftsbury School went through an attractive programme of music, and also gave two excellent displays of physical exercise, for which they were much applauded.
The members of the Rifle Club had a shoot, live stock (rabbits etc.) constituting the rewards in this section.
Lady Owen Roberts of Henley Park, distributed the prizes in the evening, and at the conclusion of this pleasing ceremony, on the call of Mr Hayward, hearty cheers were given to Lady Roberts and also to Colonel Coussmaker, who acted as Hon. Secretary and Treasurer and had devoted much time and attention to the show. Mr Hodgson acted as judge. Mr Fields' collection of vegetables not for competition was very highly commended and Colonel Coussmaker was highly commended. Mrs Dyson and Miss Crighton were very highly commended for a splendid collection of sweet peas.

1906 August 11th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy - Interesting Rifle Shooting
To The Editor
Sir - Your reporter had to leave before the prizes were given away by Lady Roberts of Henley Park at our Cottagers' Show. So he was not able to full credit to the rifle shooting. The Normans, No. 741 Miniature Rifle Club of the N.R.A. has only been started this year, but they acquitted themselves very well on 1/8. They fired with the Lincoln Jeffries air rifle at a target 6ft square with 1½" bull, fixed on a toy boat floating on a pond at a distance of 25 yards, the boat being pulled in and out again for each round of five shots - no sighting shots given - and the result was that the following five prizes were allotted - Arthur Hammond - a suckling pig: Frederick Jinman - a Leghorn Cockerel: William Rickwood - a pair of fantail pigeons: Sidney Hollands - a rabbit: George Yenz - a duck: Albert Collyer - a kitten: and Cecil Stedman: the last prize. There were five equal scores for this last, it was only after many tosses that it became his property. Besides the Normans, several visitors had shots at the floating target, and it was voted a success. It was rather hard on the Normans that they were on the point of victory. Their opponents (Shawfield and Ash) had got the best of the first innings by 35, but the Normans had pulled up by the second, and were only three behind with seven wickets to fall.
I am sir etc. G Coussmaker
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Cricket
The Normans Cricket Club, under the skilful coaching of their Captain, Mr R.D. Hagger, whose tenancy of Henley Park Farm terminates this year to the regret of the young men of the parish - are having a busy and successful season. On Wednesday week they had to stand by the result of the First innings, through an incident when victory was well within their group, but on Bank Holiday they had nearly doubled the score of their opponents from Pirbright only scored 59 and they got 93. Locally it is attributed to the encouragement they received when at the Cottagers' Show the Shaftsbury School Band sang that old glee 'The Hardy Norseman & House of Yore'.

1906 August 25th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy - Robbery at Henley Park

On Friday night in last week a robbery was committed at Henley Park, the residence of Sir Owen and Lady Roberts. Boxes were broken into and drawers ransacked, but only a gold bracelet and £5 in silver is missing. There was no indication of any forcible entry being made to the house, and how the thief or thieves gained admission is a mystery. Sir Owen and Lady Roberts were away in Lincolnshire at the time.

1906 December 14th
Aldershot News
Ash Parish Council - Water for Normandy

A letter from the Rural District Council that communication had been going on for some time with the Frimley Water Company relative to the proposed extension of mains in Normandy. The company required a guarantee of £75 a year from the Parish of Ash before they would make the extension. The Company had arranged to give such a guarantee, being assisted in it by private contributions.
Mr Murrell: Are they going to give a guarantee they are not going to take water from the canal?
The Clerk: They have the power to do that.
Mr Bateman: They have plenty of water.
The subject dropped.

1906 December 21st
Aldershot News
Ash Council Meeting
(Monday 16th December) - Wyke Recreation Ground
The Wyke Recreation Ground Committee proposed that all trees except a belt around the outskirts should be cut down and the undergrowth cleared and a quick set hedge planted on the boundary for which they asked a grant of £20 from the Council. After some discussion, Mr Bateman proposed that they cut out the question of the hedge - spend the money levelling and trenching.
This was unanimously agreed to.

1906 December 22nd
Surrey Advertiser
Ash Parish Council - Wyke Recreation Ground

The Wyke Recreation Ground Committee presented a report as to proposed improvements. They proposed that all the trees, except a belt on the outskirts, should be cut down, and that a quickset hedge should be planted on the boundary. They asked for a grant of £20. Mr Bateman proposed that all the proposals, excepting the hedge, be agreed to, and that the ground be levelled and trenched. The motion was adopted. Since the meeting a protest has been numerously signed by inhabitants of Normandy against the proposed cutting down of trees on Wyke Recreation Ground as being detrimental to the appearance of the neighbourhood.

1907 January 5th
Surrey Advertiser
Ash

Wyke recreation ground.
Parish council meeting to discuss a petition, calling for a halt to cutting more trees on the Wyke recreation ground. (Very long report of a lively debate). Names mentioned in the report include: - Mr Cooksey, Mr Bateman, William Deedman, Mr Beeton, Mr Murrell, Mr Robinson and Joseph Chamberlain.

1907 January 12th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy
Presentation

On Tuesday evening after the weeknight service at the Wesleyan Church, Miss Deedman was presented with a handsome silver mounted dressing case. Mr Hayward, who made the presentation, spoke of Miss Deedman's devoted work in the Sunday School, and her talented services as organist. She had left them rather hurriedly, but as she was spending Christmas at home, they had determined to offer her this gift as a token of their love and affection. The Reverend Bramley Hart also added his testimony to Mrs Deedman's good qualities. The contributors were members of the church, friends and Sunday school children.
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An enjoyable social.
The second annual New Year Social was held in the Wyke School on Friday evening and proved a most enjoyable affair, a company of nearly 80 being present. The rooms had been tastefully decorated with evergreens, flags etc, and presented a gay appearance when dancing commenced about 8 o'clock. At intervals songs were contributed by Miss Wheeler, Miss Connie Head, and Messrs Dyson, C Dyson, H Rickard and R Brush, while Mr J Prosser Craine gave some recitations. The duties of MC were ably discharged by Mr Bluck. The arrangements for refreshments were in the hands of Mesdames Bluck, Dyson, Field and Blaber, and Misses Wheeler, E Stedman, F Stedman, Creighton and Bluck, and gave every satisfaction. Many useful and ornamental articles were kindly lent by Mr and Mrs Walford Bentley, Mrs Creighton and others. The managing committee consisted of Messrs Field, Bluck, Dyson, Heyward, H Hunt, S Hunt, A J Stedman, A B Stedman, W A Woods and H Rickard with Mr Blaber as Honorary Secretary, and they were accorded hearty cheers before the party dispersed.

1907 February 16th
Surrey Advertiser
Ash Parish Council

A letter was read from the General Manager of the South Eastern and Chatham Railway Company, stating that the managing committee had in contemplation a general scheme of alterations to the Ash Junction Station, and if it was decided to proceed with the same, the question of a footbridge, suggested by the Council, would not be lost sight of. Mr Beeton (Ash Council) had given notice of his intention to again bring forward the urgent necessity for a footbridge, and also for a nearer approach to the station, but on the letter from the company being read, he said he was quite satisfied with it.

1907 March 9th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy
The Normans Rifle Club

Lt Col G Coussmaker, Honorary Secretary of 'The Normans' Rifle Club writes - 'Now that the season of indoor rifle shooting is drawing to an end, and we are thinking of firing at the butt in the field, it may interest some of your subscribers to read how 'The Normans' number 741 miniature rifle club, have been spending the winter. The club only came into existence on the 16th of January last year, and the rule was then made that the members should pay for their ammunition - one halfpenny for five shots. A score of twenty was fixed upon as that which would enable the shooter to have his halfpence returned, and to get various ribbons and badges at different distances. This year the lads fixed upon twenty-five as the qualifying score, and that at which they should obtain the same honours as before. According to their scale of marking, thirty is the highest possible, and already several of them have made 29, so they can firstly claim progress. They have had some game tournaments with the neighbouring club at Pirbright, including rifle matches. The first was won by Pirbright by one point, the second by 'The Normans' by three points. At the finish of this match there was great excitement, as the last man of 'The Normans' had to make twenty to tie. However, Albert Colyer, one of the youngest though by no means the worst, did not disappoint his backers, for he scored 23. As a general rule 30 is the highest possible at 'The Normans' practice, but this time 25 at a seven eights of an inch bull, at the distance of 12 yards was the limit.

1907 March 16th
Surrey Advertiser
Wanborough
Promotion for Mr C Dyson.

Mr Charles Dyson, stationmaster at Wanborough, has been appointed to a similar position at Micheldever, near Winchester. Mr Dyson has been stationmaster at Wanborough for seven years, previous to which he was for twelve years chief clerk at Woking. In both districts he won numerous friends, who will congratulate him on the appointment he had just received.

1907 June 1st
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy

The Wesleyan Church was well filled on Wednesday with friends and well wishers of Miss Woodger of Wanborough and Mr J Horne of Normandy, whose marriage took place on that day. The Reverend E Weaver of Godalming officiated. The service was choral, Miss N Deedman presiding at the organ and playing the Wedding March as the bridal party left the church. The bridesmaids were Miss Clinker, Miss L Horne, Miss Bowyer and Miss Terry, and Mr F Horne was best man. Nearly fifty guests sat down to the wedding breakfast. The presents were numerous, and of a useful character.

1907 July 6th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy
Choir outing.

The choir of St Marks Church, Wyke had their annual outing on Wednesday, when they joined force with St Michaels, Aldershot in an excursion to Hastings. The party left Wanborough Station at 9:30am. The weather was fine until about noon and then showery until 5pm,but this interfered little with the enjoyment of the party. A few nautical spirits went to Eastbourne by steamer, but were glad to return by rail. Capital arrangements had been made for the comfort of the party, and a most enjoyable day was spent. Home was reached at 10:30pm.

1907 July 27th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy
Children at Henley Park

By the kindness of Sir Owen and Lady Roberts, the children of the Church Sunday school were entertained to tea at Henley Park on Saturday afternoon. Nearly 70 children sat down to an excellent tea, and subsequently enjoyed themselves with swings races etc. The vicar thanked Lady Roberts for their enjoyable tea and prizes.

1907 August 3rd
Surrey Advertiser
Ash - Parish Council

Extract: The Chairman mentioned that a few nights ago two persons were stopped whilst walking along Folly Hatch Lane and ordered back. Mr Cooksey said Col. Coussmaker was the landlord and had let the shooting rights to a Mr Morris, whose keeper was stated to have interfered with rights of the public.
The Clerk was instructed to write to Col. Coussmaker and Mr Morris, and say that the Council would not tolerate 'high handed conduct'.

1907 August 10th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy
Successful Cottagers' Show

The 23rd Annual Cottagers Show for Wyke, Normandy, Flexford and Wanborough took place on Wednesday last week at Westwood, Normandy by permission of Lt.Col. Coussmaker. Mr A J Ridler, with the assistance of Mr Smith, the gardener at Westwood, arranged the numerous exhibits, which were excellent, the red currants and broad beans being particularly fine. Everything was sent off, as usual, to the Royal Surrey County Hospital on the following day, and the matron sent her grateful thanks to the cottagers. Mr Hogsden of Wonersh Apiary, Bramley assisted by Mr England, the gardener at Normandy Park was the judge. The village school gardens have only been in existence for a few months, but quite long enough to test the capabilities of the boys, and the managers sent in the names of the three best. Mr Blaber's band of nature students showed some beautiful collections of wild flowers. During the day, eleven members of the Normans' Rifle Club competed for a suckling pig, the gift of the honorary secretary Lt.Col. Coussmaker, firing at a target floating on a sheet of ornamental water. Albert Collyer, who had gained the Donegall bronze medal at the beginning of the month, was successful here, and later obtained a Flemish giant rabbit presented by Miss Morgan, in a match open to all comers. The Normans got together a cricket team to play No.1 Company, Army service Corps, but were signally defeated. Miss Page presided over a successful sale of needlework, and the various odds and ends of a jumble sale. Mrs Coussmaker with a strong band of willing young ladies, ran the refreshment tent. Messrs Hayward, Woods, and Homer looked after the sports, races, jumps etc, and the managers of the Aldershot branch of the Friary, Holroyd and Healy Breweries kindly lent tents. The Band of the Shaftesbury School at Bisley played during the afternoon, and also gave an exhibition of their popular musical drill.
(Long prize list)

1907 September 7th
Surrey Advertiser
Wesleyan Sunday School

The Wesleyan Sunday School anniversary services were held on Sunday, and were exceedingly well attended. The preacher was Mr John Gay of Camberwell, who also conducted the children's services in the afternoon. On Tuesday evening a public meeting was held, when the room was crowded. Mr Ralph J Harvey presided, and an address was given by the Reverend E Sellers. Mr Hayward also read his report, which showed the Sunday School to be in a flourishing condition. Songs and recitations were given by Nellie Hammond, Amy Hoskins, Lois Lipscombe, George Bosley, Gwennie Coleman, Lily Hutchins, and Amy and Dorothy Cooper, and they acquitted themselves in a manner which reflected much credit on Miss Smith who trained them.

1907 September 14th
Surrey Advertiser
Ash Parish Council
Lighting of the Parish
The council considered the lighting scheme laid before the special meeting last month. Mr Cooksey said the feeling of Normandy was against the proposed lighting of Normandy Park - Mr King warmly supported the scheme, which he said was a very cheap and modest one, and would result in a great improvement of Ash. Mr Murrell said he would support the scheme if the estimated penny rate was not levied on agricultural land. Last year was a bad one for agriculturists, but he present one was worse. Mr Deedman said the proposed 30 lamps were ridiculous for such a big parish. He would rather be without light than see lamps placed hundreds of yards apart. Mr King observed that Mr Murrell spoke from an owners point of view. Mr Murrell said agricultural land did not want lighting, the cost of the scheme should be put on bricks and mortar. Mr Bateman felt concerned that the scheme would be approved by the ratepayers and moved that a parish meeting be asked to consider it. Mr King seconded. After further discussion the matter dropped, Mr Bateman and Mr King promising to make a requisition on the claim for a parish meeting.

1907 September 28th
Surrey Advertiser
Ash - Harvest Thanksgiving
Harvest Festival services were held at the Congregational Church on Sunday, and were of a hearty character. A splendid offering of flowers fruit and vegetables was effectively arranged by Mrs Dance, Mrs Cripps, Mr Cranstone and Mr Marshall and on Monday morning was despatched to the Surrey County Hospital. Mr Dance presided at the organ, and suitable addresses were given during the day by Mr Peters (Stoughton), Mr Reavell (Aldershot) and Mr Jones (Stoughton).

1907 November 16th
Surrey Advertiser
Normandy
On Tuesday evening the Wesleyan Church and School were crowded, the occasion being a lecture by the Reverend T. Naylor of Guildford on 'A visit to Australia', illustrated with limelight views. A collection for the new organ amounted to over £2.

1907 December 21st
Surrey Advertiser
Death of Mrs Coussmaker
It was with feelings of great regret and sorrow that the inhabitants of Normandy learned on Monday morning that Mrs Coussmaker, wife of Lt. Col. Coussmaker of Westwood had succumbed on the previous evening to a sharp attack of bronchitis, followed by pneumonia. The deceased lady was very well respected and esteemed by the poorer people, to who she had endeared herself by her ready help and sympathy, extending over many years. She always took much interest in everything of a charitable nature. The institution of a village nurse was due to her, and she has been one of the mainstays in keeping it up. The arrangements for London children to spend a fortnight in the county each summer were made by her. She was always ready to assist in getting up concerts for local objects, helping with the Monthly Sewing class, and managing the school treats in connection with the Flower Show. She did much for the County Hospital, as her Samaritan Fund, Skilling Fund and Pound Day contributions testify. [may be some omission here?] Lt. Col. Coussmaker the deep sympathy of all classes in his bereavement.
The Funeral took place on Thursday afternoon when the remains were laid to rest in the Family vault in St Marks Church, which was not large enough to hold all those who had assembled to show their last tokens of respect and sympathy. The service was conducted by the Reverend N. Pickford (Wyke, St Marks) and the Reverend A. O. Walsh (Ash). the hymn sung was 'The sower went forth sowing'. The mourners were Lt. Col. Coussmaker, Col M. Coussmaker, the Reverend J. D. Coussmaker; Mr Lannay Coussmaker, Major Flood Page; Messrs F. Flood Page; I.A. Flood Page; Charles Page, A Stables; H.L. Chancellor; R.D. Chancellor and Maisie Symerton; Miss Page, Miss Vera Flood Page; Mrs A Stables; Miss G Page and Miss E. Bright.
Amongst others present were Lady Owen Roberts, the Reverend R.L. Gales and Mr C.J. Sells JP.
Flowers were sent by Col. and Mrs M.Coussmaker, Reverend J. D. Coussmaker and from Hempstall Rectory, the Misses Coussmaker, Miss Chancellor, Miss V and M Flood Page, the Westwood employees, flowers from two of her oldest friends. 'The Normans', the Worplesdon Nursing Association; the churchwardens, choir and organist of St Marks; Sir William and Lady Harling; Sir Owen and Lady Roberts; Lady Bright; Mrs Bircham, Col. and Mrs Wavell; the Misses Morgan; Miss Smyth; Miss Swynnerton, the Reverend and Mrs Pickford, Mrs M Swynnerton, Captain and Mrs Bright; Mr Freil; Mr and Mrs Norris and others.

1907 December 28th
Surrey Advertiser
Death of Mrs Coussmaker
In our report of last week of the death and Funeral of the Mrs Coussmaker, wife of Col. G. Coussmaker of Westwood, Normandy, we omitted to state that the coffin was made by men of the parish, that deceased was carried from her home to the grave by cottagers of the parish, and that those among whom she lived and for whom she worked did everything for her to the last. The late Mrs Coussmaker and her husband always set their faces against ostentation of hearses and mourning coaches and the waste which attends many funerals.

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