Rushden Echo, 9th November 1917, transcribed by Kay Collins

A Very Successful Dance to raise funds for sending a monetary Christmas gift to North-street soldiers and sailors, whose names are on the Roll of Honour, was held in the Co-operative Hall yesterday week. The arrangements were made by Mrs. Fairey and a capable committee comprising Mesdames Peacock, J. Smith, J. C. Whiting, Mundin, Minney, B. Hinde and J. W. Hinde. A good company was present, and the motive music for dancing was supplied by Messrs. H. Baker (violin), W. Knighton (flute), W. Ireland (double bass), and W. Wills (piano), all of whom kindly gave their services. The duties of M.C. were efficiently discharged by Mr. F. Blundell, and Messrs. Langford and Hinde were in charge of the doors. A sugar-guessing competition, arranged by Mrs. Harris, realised 8s. 3d., the correct number of lumps—126—being guessed by Mrs. Twelvetree. A Marrow weight-guessing competition, in charge of Ralph Whiting, made 6s. 1d., and the marrow was won by Mr. Dilley, who correctly estimated the weight, 13lbs. The children helped in their small way by selling various articles. Lucky apples were sold by Gladys Smith and Ida Tate, who succeeded in raising 4s. 6d. Elsie Bradshaw and Edie Fensome raised 5s. 3d., by the sale of lavender bags, and ribbon bows sold by Rosie Fensome realized 4s. 6d.

At a subsequent committee meeting it was decided to send a letter of thanks to Mr. Baker for the valued services of the band. After paying expenses, £7 13s. 8d. profit was made, and 5s. has been sent to each of the boys. Mrs. O. Claridge (president) arrived during the evening, and was given a most cordial reception.