War work of the W.V.S. at Rushden was reviewed at a meeting of the committee in the Waverley Hotel last Friday.

Councillor Mrs. O.A.H. Muxlow (Centre Organiser) presided, supported by Miss Putnam (secretary), and in surveying the work of the last three months emphasised that the W.V.S. was essentially a “helping” organisation, ready to co-operate with existing bodies in every way possible.

Mrs. Muxlow said she was proud of the fact that whenever helpers had been called for in Rushden she had been able to find them among the 250 members. The members were assisting in the National Savings Movement (with Mrs. B. Perkins on the local committee), the penny-a-week Red Cross scheme in shops and offices, salvage, the overnight hostel for refugees and the “Beeches” hostel for evacuees. They had also sent babies’ clothing to the Sunshine Circle, and during the recent reception of evacuees in the town they acted as billeting officers and receptionists, while some drove evacuees to billets in their cars.

The Rushden branch were also solely responsible for the Red Cross Supply Depot, the staff of the feeding stations, and the distribution and demonstration of gas helmets and small masks for babies and toddlers.

The committee decided to ask Mrs. W. Robinson (Red Cross organiser) to furnish the Press with an account of the work of the Rushden depot since its commencement, so that the general public could know the vast amount of work being done.

Mrs. Muxlow reported that Rushden is to be made a sub-station for the distribution of Ministry clothing to evacuees, and American and Canadian Red Cross clothing for refugees, this station to serve Rushden, Raunds and Higham Ferrers. Mrs. Weale had kindly consented to take charge of this, in addition to other clothing, and Miss J. Claridge would act as secretary.

All present were thanked by the Organiser for their loyal and willing help in assisting to establish a very useful and “live” W.V.S. centre.