Messrs. Claridge and their Employees—On Saturday last the employee's of Mr. Wm. Claridge, of this village, started for their annual excursion, Rhyl being fixed upon as the place to be visited. The holiday throughout was very enjoyable, and the workpeople feel very grateful to their employers for their kindness on this and previous occasions.

A day at Chatsworth - By a tripper
Rushden folk who were up before the streets were aired on Saturday morning might have seen a portly individual wearing a tired and anxious expression, together with other holiday attire, going down the street at about fifty miles an hour, with his coat tails streaming out behind, and might have heard some spectators near Station Road, shrieking out “Go it, old man,” “She’s in” “You’ll miss her” and other encouraging expressions. Needless to say, the individual referred to was the writer, on his way to the excursion train which was to take Messrs. Cave’s workpeople and their friends to Chatsworth, not to mention Matlock and Rowsley. Fortune favours the brave, we are told, and my brave effort was crowned with success. Flying in at the station like an avalanche and upsetting two porters, one hamper, and a few other intoxicating liquors, I was just able to take my seat n the train before finding out that I had ten minutes to wait. Those precious minutes were occupied in meditation on the folly of early rising, running and things in general. Puffing and blowing also came in for a fair share of attention. At last we were fairly started, and, occupying as we did a saloon carriage it was not long before one of the company started a conversation as to the weather, and we had a few fine jokes, such as “It’ll be fine if the wet keeps off” and all that sort of thing. Some of us wished afterwards we had let the weather alone. I never does much good to interfere with matters of that sort. We could see it when it was too late.

There is not much to be said about the journey, which was very much like every other journey. The ladies talked about the number of teeth their babies got per minute – at least those who had babies; those who had none enlarged upon the number theirs would get if they had any. The gentlemen told funny stories, read the racing news in the morning papers, smoked and ever and anon took pulls at bottles filled with mysterious compounds of varied hue and smell. To make a break in the monotony, a game at whist was suggested, but alas! There was not a pack of cards in the carriage and the difficulty involved in playing whist without cards has not yet been surmounted. Still we did manage to pass the time away, somehow, and at last arrived at Rowsley. We then made our way to Chatsworth House – some on foot and some by brake – and were taken over that magnificent place. I am afraid I can give very little idea of the appearance of the place either inside or out. In fact, we saw it too quickly for that. On arriving at the gates a big individual, with a big way of conducting himself, ranged us in a couple of pens like a lot of cattle and proceeded to judge of our points for a minute or two. Then came the welcome sound “Pass on please,” and we passed.

“Umbrellas, parcels and walking sticks must be left by the third tree” and obediently they were left.

“Wait at the bottom of the stairs for the guide.”

We waited a bit and were then summoned upstairs, where we were again told to wait. We waited again and wondered when that sort of thing was going to end. It did end at last, for a lady came and took us through the house, explaining with great minuteness which of the chairs belonged to His Royal Highness this, that and the other, and carefully avoiding mentioning the magnificent collection of pictures or china things likely to interest us. Most of us decided to guide ourselves and we got some real enjoyment out of the pictures etc. One of the party, passing by a grand painting by Murillo observed “I wouldn’t mind giving half a quid for that; I’m blowed if I would, even if I lost money on it.” As for the sculpture gallery the less said about it the better. The impression it gave me was that the persons who were represented in marble must have lived in very warm climates and hadn’t much money to spend on dress.

After going through the house, there was the collection. Then one of the gardeners took us in hand and showed us through the delightful grounds – at least they would have been delightful if it had not been so close on lunch-time. That the gardener did his best with us I am sure. He told us the Latin names of the flowers and plants we saw, and anyone who could remember them all ought to be proud of himself. After we had seen citrons and oranges growing, our guide made collection number two and released us.

Then we fetched our umbrellas etc. and the man in charge of them made collection number three. By this time we had developed a very beautiful appetite and ad begun to inquire for the luncheon tent. Luckily for us it was only about a mile and a half from the house – they think nothing of a few miles at Chatsworth- and we were sitting down to lunch. After lunch the Rushden Temperance Band which accompanied us, entertained us for a while, but the attractions of the surrounding scenery and the temptations to pair off were too much for the majority of the party. Each one spent the afternoon as the thought best and if no-one asks me how I spent mine I won’t ask anyone else.

The next item was tea, for which apparently everyone was again thoroughly prepared. After tea, many drove over to Matlock, while others stayed behind for dancing, the band supplying the music. The weather at this time had taken a very disagreeable turn and those who had not gone to Matlock were glad of the shelter of the tent. When the time came to start home everyone was ready for the journey and had arrived at the conclusion that though Chatsworth might be a fine place for an outing on a fine day it couldn’t be compared to Rushden.

It is almost needless to say that we arrived home between twelve and one o’clock, because all who live within ear-shot of the station know it by reason of the tin trumpets and other fearsome instruments which woke the echoes of the night.

Builders’ Outing:- the members of the Rushden Builders and Carpenters’ Association had their annual excursion on Saturday when they had a picnic and fishing party at Turvey. Favoured with fine weather the party had a delightful day, the arrangements for the comfort of the holiday makers being ably carried out by Messrs. A. T. Nichols, W. T. Willmott and J. Tomlin. Brakes conveyed the party which numbered 30, to Turvey, where a substantial luncheon was supplied in a marquee by Mr. Hammond. Mr. H. Sparrow, the father of the Association, presided and Messrs. Ernest Bayes and Hacksley were the vice-chairmen. The toast of “The Association” was received with enthusiasm. After the luncheon most of the party enjoyed themselves by angling in the river, although none of the “takes” were very noteworthy. At 6pm Mr. Hammond provided a strawberry tea, after which the company rambled through the churchyard and round the village. A cricket math was played in the park between Mr. Nicholls’ and Mr. Sparrow’s teams, the former providing victors by 67 to 22. Although the play could scarcely be designated scientific, plenty of fun was caused by the match. Later in the evening a smoking concert was held at the Three Cranes Hotel, various members of the company contributing to an enjoyable programme. The return journey was commenced at 10pm.

A trip to Birmingham on Saturday by the employees of Mr. Thos. Wilmott jnr. builder and contractor, was thoroughly enjoyed. The party, which numbered 30, met at Walker’s Restaurant, where an excellent dinner was provided, after which brakes conveyed them to Higham L. and N.W. Station. Train was taken to Birmingham, where the chief places of interest were visited. The party arrived at Higham on the return journey about two am, where a brake was waiting to convey them home.

Messrs W Green and Sons’ employees had their annual outing on Saturday, when they visited Ampthill Park. Mr James Sargent provided brakes for the party and a thoroughly enjoyable time was spent. The party was accompanied by a portion of the Rushden Temperance Band. Dinner was well served in the Park by the Rushden Coffee Tavern Company, under the direction of Mr A Martin. After dinner amusements of various sorts were indulged in and there was a short programme of sports. After tea the band played for dancing and the party started for home at 8 o’clock. The arrangements were made by the following committee - Messrs J Wilson, N Gilbert, J Pratt, A Tew, H Roberts, A Elsdown, H Rivett, Misses E Rice, E Chettle, and M Hazeldine, with Mr F W Tomlinson as secretary. The general committee was Messrs W Margetts, C Green, C Betts, W Bailey, B Sears, T Allen, J Wilson, and Misses M Hazeldine and E Rice, and Mr F Green, secretary.

Outing—The employees of Messrs Cunnington Bros., Park-road, had their annual outing on Monday when they went by the Band of Hope trip to Yarmouth. Saloon carriages were provided, and the party numbered about 60, being accompanied by the foremen of the various departments. They had a thoroughly enjoyable day.

A Rushden Factory Outing
A most enjoyable day’s outing was spent last Saturday by about 70 of the employees of Mr Noble’s boot and shoe factory, Rushden. The place selected for their annual picnic was Drayton House, the beautiful seat of Mr G S Stopford Sackville. The start was made from the factory in brakes, supplied by Mr J Sargent, at about 9 o’clock, the route taken being by way of Stanwick, Ringstead, and Thrapston. Several stoppages were made en route for refreshments, the journey’s end being reached soon after 12 o’clock. The viands for the tea had been sent on before the party started by Mr McDowall, of the Restaurant, but the wheel of the van which was conveying them got stuck and another conveyance had to be chartered to take on the necessaries.

On arrival a cricket match was played between the married and single members of the party, the single being victorious by 32 runs to 25. The following were the scores:-

The following were the results:-

120 yards handicap—winners of heats: A Hankins (8 yards start), J Taylor (2), W Baker (6), and J Baker (5); final 1 J Taylor, 2 W Baker, 3 J Baker.

Girls’ skipping race (first prize 1s. 6d., second 9d.): 1 Miss A Deighton, 2 Miss Bates.

220 yards boys’ race (first prize 1s. 6d., second 9d.): 1 C Green (scratch), 2 A Pack (18).

Girls’ race (75 yards): 1 Miss Baker.

Long jump (prize 1s.): 1 W Baker, 14ft. 6ins.

High jump (prize 1s): F Noble.

There was a tug-of-war between the lasting room, rough-stuff room, clicking team, and a scratch team. The lasters beat the rough-stuff room in the final, and secured the prize of 5s.

The following were the officials for the sports—Handicappers, Messrs J A Bugby, C Giles and G F Brown: judges, Messrs Jas Sargent and J Sargent: referee, Mr W V Young.

The committee was composed of the following:- Mrs Blundell, Miss Bates, Messrs F Noble, Cox, May, Bugby, Mott, Tassell, Pack, Wrigth, Giles, Hankins, Alderman, Spavins, Brown, and Master R W Noble.

The homeward journey was commenced at eight o’clock, and Rushden was reached in good time.

Rushden Outing
The Rushden and Kettering depots of the British United Shoe Machinery Co. had their annual picnic on Saturday, when they went to Kirby Hall. Luncheon was provided, and sports and games followed.

Rushden Factory Outing – C.W.S. Finishers’ 'Day Out' – by One of Them
At the request of many of my fellow workers it is my pleasure again to report upon some of the incidents that happened during one of the most popular events in connection with the C.W.S. at Rushden. At all events, the writer knows nothing more effective than a day’s outing in the country to help to develop the spirit of true comradeship. To fraternise for a whole day, even if it comes once in a year, must tend to a better feeling among men.

It is a remarkable fact, but we are always favoured with such beautiful sunny weather. It was a cloudless sky—one unbroken expanse of blue. Nothing happened to mar our happiness, but it seemed that every incident had a tendency to increase our pleasure and comfort. There are many incidents in life that perhaps are food for pessimism, but last Saturday’s outing was not one of them. When every fellow gives of his best for the pleasure and comfort of every other fellow, then the success of such a party is assured. Such was ours. We were not in such big numbers as in previous years, owing to various causes, but just as light-hearted as ever. Yes, we had a band—the best yet—one worthy of the movement and occasion. We assembled at the works in Portland-road at 7.30a.m. and gave two selections before a crowd of fellow workers. Then, amid cheers, we turned our faces toward Hinchingbrook, the historic seat of the Earl of Sandwich, this being the chosen place for this year. Many of us have pleasant memories of a former visit paid some four years ago by the same party.

Tilbrook was our first stopping place for the usual refresher. Afterwards we played through the village, to the evident delight of the villagers, who turned out en masse, many of whom met us on the return journey in the expectation of another musical treat, which they got. It was here that we took up a collection of 4/6 for

Continuing our journey through beautiful scenery and old villages, passing through Buckden, where some felt they would like to pay a visit to the fine old church, etc. The band enlivened things a bit by playing "Roamer", to remind some of us that our absence was being felt. Arriving at Huntingdon about one o’clock, we took up our quarters for the day at the Swan Hotel, where previous arrangements had been made. Here the company split up, to meet again at three o’clock for tea, when 53 sat down to an excellent meal, provided by Host and Hostess Tanfield, for which they accepted our thanks and appreciation. At the Castle gates we were joined by our respected manager and Mrs. Tysoe and family and Mr. and Mrs. W. Durham and family, who had motored over in one of Dave Nicholson’s famous cars. All of us felt this was a touch of genuine interest in our welfare. I can assure those gentlemen that this was the feeling expressed. In the park proper we had the usual privileges allowed by his lordship, but to our amazement the band were invited to take the band stand erected for the famous Coldstream Guards and play appropriate music for a rehearsal of an Elizabethan Revel, to be held in the park on July 4th. The band readily consented to do so. Everyone was delighted in watching the graceful movements and quick intelligence of the horses and ponies engaged in these Revels. One pony, being extremely nervous, was given a drum solo on its own, and it was hard to see which was the most nervous—the pony or Tom. Later, we accepted an invitation to witness the dancing, etc., of scores of children taking part in the pageant, which was admirable, and no wonder, being trained by such a famous dancer as the lady we saw dance. The extremely beautiful singing of talented artists was much admired. Altogether, we should assume that the pageant will be a brilliant success, and we are pleased to know our band played such a conspicuous part. Again, later, a special visit was paid to the gardens, hot houses, lawns, etc.

The homeward journey commenced about nine o’clock, the whole company voicing it as the most enjoyable day spent under those conditions. Our thanks are due to Rushden Temperance, Town, and Mission Bands for the loan of instruments and music, to Mr. A. Abbott for supplying brakes in his usual style, and to you, sir, for inserting this report in your valuable paper, "The Rushden Echo". A.B.

Outing—Female employees of Messrs. Skeeles and Sons to the number of 22 had an outing to Bedford on Saturday last, journeying thither in brakes supplied by Mr. Asher Abbott. After tea the evening was spent in various amusements, and leaving Bedford about 10 p.m. for the journey home the party reached Rushden about midnight.

The Employees of the Premier Boot Company, Fitzwilliam-street, had their annual outing on Saturday. At 7.30a.m. the party of about 100 employees left in six brakes for St. Neots. A halt was made at Tilbrook, where refreshments were provided. St. Neots was reached at 11.30, and the party had dinner at the Royal Oak. Mr James Jaques was present at dinner, and spent a large part of the day with the party. The employees were paid for Saturday morning, and in addition to the meals, conveyance, etc., chocolate and cigarettes were provided in abundance. The afternoon and evening were spent in boating and other recreations, and the return journey commenced at 7.30. A stop was made at Kimbolton, and it was not until after midnight that home was reached. The committee making the arrangements comprised Messrs H Staniland (manager), W Clark, R Culpin, J Garley, W Chapman, J Shortland, and W Holley (secretary).

Outing—The Tecnic Boot Co.’s employees on Saturday went for a brake outing to St. Neots. At Staughton a halt was made, and luncheon, kindly provided by the firm, was partaken of. After this some sports were held, the results being as follows: 100 yards boys’ race (under 16), 1 S. Dickens, 2 T. leach, 3 J. O’Brien; 100 yards girls’ race (under 16), 1 Linda Wilson, 3 G Adams; youths’ race (under 18), 1 J. Parker, 2 J. Lewis, 3 H. Bryant; men’s race (over 40), 1 James Wall, 2 J. Burgess, 3 S. Bull; ladies’ race (scratch), 1 E. Harrison, 2 E. Dixon, 3 E. Turry. The party then proceeded to St. Neots, and during the rest of the day occupied themselves with boating and other amusements. The return journey was made by way of Kimbolton, a stop being made at Tilbrook. Here a vote of thanks was passed to the firm on the proposition of Mr. S. Ball, Mr. E. Goodman seconding. Mr. W. C. Tarry responded. The company numbered about 90.

Shop’s Outing—The employees of Messrs. G. Selwood and Co. boot manufacturers, to the number of about 84, went for their outing on Monday to Bedford, the journey being made by way of Turvey. The arrangements were made by Mr. Houghton, and the firm gave a donation towards the expenses. The trip was of a very pleasant character, and everyone appeared to have thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

The Employees of Messrs W. Sargent and Co., Crabb-street, on Saturday had an outing to Bedford. Starting at 9a.m., they proceeded by way of Milton [Ernest], where refreshments were served. A halt was next made at the top of Oakley Hill, when a vote of thanks, proposed by Mr. Fred Darlow and seconded by Mrs. E. Clark, was passed to the firm for their generous donation towards the expenses. Mr. W. L. Sargent responded. A very enjoyable time was spent by the party at Bedford on the river and in other amusements.

The Employees of the Rushden Chrome Tanning Co. Had their annual outing on Saturday last. Starting from the tannery at 9 o’clock, the party, numbering 50, made a halt at Sharnbrook, and proceeding, reached Milton Ernest, where lunch was partaken of in a marquee. The journey was then resumed, and Bedford was reached at 1p.m. The rest of the day was spent on the river and about the town. The party, leaving Bedford at 9p.m., reached home about midnight, after having spent a very enjoyable time. On the proposition of Mr. Potter (foreman), seconded by Mr. Ainsworth, a hearty vote of thanks was proposed to Mr. Harris and the firm for their most generous hospitality provided that day. Mr. Harris, in reply, said he much regretted they were unable to sit down to tea together owing to the rationing order, but he had come with them that day to provide for them in other ways. All expenses were paid by the firm, and each one received their day’s pay. The brakes were supplied by Mr. F. Draper, of Higham Ferrers.