Extracts from Minutes of Heddon Parish Council
4th December 1894
The first Parish Meeting of the Parochial Electors of the Parish of Heddon on the Wall held in the Schoolroom, Heddon on the Wall on Tuesday 4th December 1894 at 6:30pm.
Present were 52 Parochial Electors.
The Assistant Overseer, Geo M Hunter on behalf of the Overseers reminded the meeting of its first duty to elect a Chairman.
The names of Mr Daniel Carberry and Mr Thomas Baxter were put to the meeting, and on a show of hands being taken, there voted for Mr Daniel Carberry 27, and for Mr Thomas Baxter, 7. The former was therefore duly elected and took the Chair at 6:45pm and announced that the object of the meeting was to elect 7 Parish Councillors for the Parish of Heddon on the Wall and requested that nomination papers be handed to him.
15 minutes having elapsed since he took the Chair, the Chairman proceeded to read out to the meeting in alphabetical order the names of the candidates in order of their surnames, also their places of abode and description, and the names and places of abode of their proposers and seconders, viz:
1 Bewicke, Calverley, Close House, Wylam on Tyne
Proposed by Fenwick Charlton, Heddon Colliery
Seconded by Daniel Carberry, Moore Court
2 Charlton, Fenwick, Heddon Colliery
Proposed by John Heslop, Heddon Banks
Seconded by William Stephenson, Heddon on the Wall
3 Freeman, Frederick William, Bays Leap, Heddon on the Wall
Proposed by William Stephenson, Heddon on the Wall
Seconded by John Armatage, Heddon on the Wall
4 Graham, John, Heddon on the Wall
Proposed by John Wardle, Heddon on the Wall
Seconded by George Brown, Heddon on the Wall
5 Heslop, John, Heddon West Banks
Proposed by William Stephenson, Heddon on the Wall
Seconded by Frederick William Freeman, Bays Leap
6 Jackson, Thomas Henry, Heddon on the Wall
Proposed by Edward Grace Reay, Moore Court
Seconded by Daniel Carberry, Moore Court
7 Reay, Edward Grace, Moore Court
Proposed by John Heslop, Heddon Banks
Seconded by William Stephenson, Heddon on the Wall
8 Stephenson, William, Heddon on the Wall
Proposed by John Wright, Heddon on the Wall
Seconded by John Wardle, Heddon on the Wall
9 Taylor, Howard, East Heddon
Proposed by John Graham, Heddon on the Wall
Seconded by Edward Grace Reay, Moore Court
10 Wilkinson, Elizabeth Sarah, Heddon on the Wall
Proposed by JThomas Henry Jackson, Heddon on the Wall
Seconded by John Snowdon, Heddon on the Wall
Sufficient time having been allowed and no questions being asked of any of the candidates. A show of hands was taken in favour of each candidate with the following result.
Votes given in favour of each candidate:
Elected:
Charlton Fenwick 46
Wilkinson, Elizabeth Sarah 38
Heslop, John 38
Graham, John 37
Jackson, Thomas Henry 33
Bewicke, Calverley 31
Stephenson, William 26
Not elected:
Reay, Edward Grace 24
Freeman, Frederick William 19
Taylor, Howard 14
7:45pm The Chairman read out the above names and votes given in favour of each candidate and declared that if no poll was demanded in 10 minutes he would consider the first seven duly elected.
Mr Thomas Jobey asked the question of eligibility of William Stephenson acting as a Parish Councillor. The Chairman informed him that the question of eligibility of any of the candidates could not be gone into at that meeting.
Mr Thomas Baxter demanded, but afterwards withdrew, his demand for a poll.
At 7:53pm The Chairman declared the first 7 candidates, having received the largest number of votes, duly elected Parish Councillors of Heddon on the Wall and proceeded to fill in the Certified Form which was duly left at the office of the Returning Officer, 27 Mosley Street, Newcastle upon Tyne on Wednesday 5th December 1894.
signed: ? Bates
Chairman (28th March 1895)
The first Parish Meeting of the Parochial Electors of the Parish of Heddon on the Wall held in the Schoolroom, Heddon on the Wall on Tuesday 4th December 1894 at 6:30pm.
Present were 52 Parochial Electors.
The Assistant Overseer, Geo M Hunter on behalf of the Overseers reminded the meeting of its first duty to elect a Chairman.
The names of Mr Daniel Carberry and Mr Thomas Baxter were put to the meeting, and on a show of hands being taken, there voted for Mr Daniel Carberry 27, and for Mr Thomas Baxter, 7. The former was therefore duly elected and took the Chair at 6:45pm and announced that the object of the meeting was to elect 7 Parish Councillors for the Parish of Heddon on the Wall and requested that nomination papers be handed to him.
15 minutes having elapsed since he took the Chair, the Chairman proceeded to read out to the meeting in alphabetical order the names of the candidates in order of their surnames, also their places of abode and description, and the names and places of abode of their proposers and seconders, viz:
1 Bewicke, Calverley, Close House, Wylam on Tyne
Proposed by Fenwick Charlton, Heddon Colliery
Seconded by Daniel Carberry, Moore Court
2 Charlton, Fenwick, Heddon Colliery
Proposed by John Heslop, Heddon Banks
Seconded by William Stephenson, Heddon on the Wall
3 Freeman, Frederick William, Bays Leap, Heddon on the Wall
Proposed by William Stephenson, Heddon on the Wall
Seconded by John Armatage, Heddon on the Wall
4 Graham, John, Heddon on the Wall
Proposed by John Wardle, Heddon on the Wall
Seconded by George Brown, Heddon on the Wall
5 Heslop, John, Heddon West Banks
Proposed by William Stephenson, Heddon on the Wall
Seconded by Frederick William Freeman, Bays Leap
6 Jackson, Thomas Henry, Heddon on the Wall
Proposed by Edward Grace Reay, Moore Court
Seconded by Daniel Carberry, Moore Court
7 Reay, Edward Grace, Moore Court
Proposed by John Heslop, Heddon Banks
Seconded by William Stephenson, Heddon on the Wall
8 Stephenson, William, Heddon on the Wall
Proposed by John Wright, Heddon on the Wall
Seconded by John Wardle, Heddon on the Wall
9 Taylor, Howard, East Heddon
Proposed by John Graham, Heddon on the Wall
Seconded by Edward Grace Reay, Moore Court
10 Wilkinson, Elizabeth Sarah, Heddon on the Wall
Proposed by JThomas Henry Jackson, Heddon on the Wall
Seconded by John Snowdon, Heddon on the Wall
Sufficient time having been allowed and no questions being asked of any of the candidates. A show of hands was taken in favour of each candidate with the following result.
Votes given in favour of each candidate:
Elected:
Charlton Fenwick 46
Wilkinson, Elizabeth Sarah 38
Heslop, John 38
Graham, John 37
Jackson, Thomas Henry 33
Bewicke, Calverley 31
Stephenson, William 26
Not elected:
Reay, Edward Grace 24
Freeman, Frederick William 19
Taylor, Howard 14
7:45pm The Chairman read out the above names and votes given in favour of each candidate and declared that if no poll was demanded in 10 minutes he would consider the first seven duly elected.
Mr Thomas Jobey asked the question of eligibility of William Stephenson acting as a Parish Councillor. The Chairman informed him that the question of eligibility of any of the candidates could not be gone into at that meeting.
Mr Thomas Baxter demanded, but afterwards withdrew, his demand for a poll.
At 7:53pm The Chairman declared the first 7 candidates, having received the largest number of votes, duly elected Parish Councillors of Heddon on the Wall and proceeded to fill in the Certified Form which was duly left at the office of the Returning Officer, 27 Mosley Street, Newcastle upon Tyne on Wednesday 5th December 1894.
signed: ? Bates
Chairman (28th March 1895)
During 1900, the Parish Council had replaced a footbridge near Heddon Mill at a cost of £1 2s 0d.
On the instigation of the Council, Heddon pond had been cleaned out.
Annual Parish Meeting 1901:
The question of allowing engines and other vehicles to stand on the Green adjoining the pond was discussed and the matter was allowed to stand over to receive the attention of the Parish Council.
The Chairman announced his attention of providing two seats to be placed on the roadleading from Heddon Station to Heddon village.
Annual Parish Meeting 1903
At the Annual Assembly of the Parochial Electors of the Township of Heddon on the Wall on 30th March 1903, held in the School, Heddon on the Wall on Monday 13th March 1903 at 7:30pm.
Present were 8 Parochial electors. The Clerk read a report dealing with the questions which had received the attention of the Parish Council during the preceding year and stated that the expenditure had been as follows:
To putting up guard and foundation to tree planted on Diamond Jubilee Day - £7 3s 0d.
To putting up guard to tree planted on Coronation day - £3 5s 1d
To J Wright to cleaning and manuring trees - 5s 0d
Mr Edward Smith criticised the amount of expenditure on the trees and guards and said it might have been put to a better purpose.
After a general discussion on the Education Act, Mr Angus Wilkinson moved and Mr William Stephenson seconded and it was resolved that the Chairman write to the Inspector of Finances drawing his attention to the insanitary conditions of Heddon Square and asking him to communicate with the owners of the property with a view to the ash-pits and privies being put into a sanitary condition.
Annual Parish Meeting, March 1904
Mr Jackson strongly criticised the excessive rate charged for the water in the village and he also advocated the introduction of gas to the village.
Annual Parish Meeting, March 1905
Mr Jackson moved, and Mr G Wilkinson seconded and it was resolved that this Parish Meeting ask the Newcastle Gas Co. to extend their mains to the village of Heddon on the Wall for the benefit of the residents as this meeting is of the opinion that all licensed premises, church, chapel, reading institute and private houses would take the gas.
On the instigation of the Council, Heddon pond had been cleaned out.
Annual Parish Meeting 1901:
The question of allowing engines and other vehicles to stand on the Green adjoining the pond was discussed and the matter was allowed to stand over to receive the attention of the Parish Council.
The Chairman announced his attention of providing two seats to be placed on the roadleading from Heddon Station to Heddon village.
Annual Parish Meeting 1903
At the Annual Assembly of the Parochial Electors of the Township of Heddon on the Wall on 30th March 1903, held in the School, Heddon on the Wall on Monday 13th March 1903 at 7:30pm.
Present were 8 Parochial electors. The Clerk read a report dealing with the questions which had received the attention of the Parish Council during the preceding year and stated that the expenditure had been as follows:
To putting up guard and foundation to tree planted on Diamond Jubilee Day - £7 3s 0d.
To putting up guard to tree planted on Coronation day - £3 5s 1d
To J Wright to cleaning and manuring trees - 5s 0d
Mr Edward Smith criticised the amount of expenditure on the trees and guards and said it might have been put to a better purpose.
After a general discussion on the Education Act, Mr Angus Wilkinson moved and Mr William Stephenson seconded and it was resolved that the Chairman write to the Inspector of Finances drawing his attention to the insanitary conditions of Heddon Square and asking him to communicate with the owners of the property with a view to the ash-pits and privies being put into a sanitary condition.
Annual Parish Meeting, March 1904
Mr Jackson strongly criticised the excessive rate charged for the water in the village and he also advocated the introduction of gas to the village.
Annual Parish Meeting, March 1905
Mr Jackson moved, and Mr G Wilkinson seconded and it was resolved that this Parish Meeting ask the Newcastle Gas Co. to extend their mains to the village of Heddon on the Wall for the benefit of the residents as this meeting is of the opinion that all licensed premises, church, chapel, reading institute and private houses would take the gas.
Heddon on the Wall Parish Council Minutes
20th September 1923
The Chairman said the meeting had been called to consider the offer by Sir James Knott of the land in the vicinity of the War Memorial. Mr Anderson, being present, explained that the whole of the land was offered to the Parish Council unconditionally.
The following resolution proposed by Mr Armatage and seconded by Mr Charlton, was unanimously adopted - that the Parish Council on behalf of the ratepayers accept Sir James's offer, and desire to express their gratitude to the donor.
24th March 1924
The Chairman informed the meeting that Sir James Knott proposed to enclose the land which was originally covered by the pond and convert it into a small park for the use of the inhabitants of the village, but it was found that part of the land to be enclosed actually belonged to the Parish and therefore the meeting had been called to give consideration to this piece of land being included in the enclosure.
After hearing Mr Anderson's explanation, the following resolution, moved by Mr Jackson and seconded by Mr Hunter was carried unanimously - "that the Council give their approval and desire to express their gratitude to Sir james for his continued generosity.
4th June 1924
The meeting was convened for the purpose of discussing the action taken by Mr Malthouse regarding the enclosing of the existing road to the Hearse House. It was pointed out that Mr Malthouse had promised to make another rod immediately in front of the Hearse-House. After a lengthy discussion it was proposed by Mr Jackson and seconded by Mr Amos, "that a deputation consisting of the Chairman, Mr Formear and the Clerk wait upon Mr Wilkinson, Clerk to the RDC and ask his opinion on the matter." The deputation was also instructed to ask Mr Wilkinson's opinion on the closing of the footpath leading from No 2 Clayton Row to the road.
23rd June 1924
The clerk read a letter from Mr Malthouse notifying that he was fencing in the open ground in front of his house. After some discussion the following resolution moved by Mr jackson and seconded by Mr Charlton was passed - "that as far as the Parish Council is concerned they have no objection to Mr Malthouse proceeding with the wall.
9th September 1924
The Draft Deed of Gift of Land by Sir James Knott to the Parish Council was presented and read for their approval. Mr Fornear moved and Mr Armatage seconded "that the Parish Council approve the deed and express their gratitude to Sir James for his kindly gift."
21st April 1925
Proposed by Mr Armatage and seconded by Mr Hunter "that the Clerk write to Mr Malthouse pointing out that it was contrary to the conditions of the sale to close the road to the Hearse House by the fixing of a lock on the gate and to request him to cease using the Hearse House for storage purposes as it was the property of the parishioners of Heddon."
8th September 1925
After some discussion on this vexed subject the following resolution proposed by Mr Jackson and seconded by Mr F C Charlton was unanimously adopted - "that the Clerk be instructed to write to Mr Malthouse requesting him to leave the entrance gate to the road to the Hearse House unlocked from 8am to 8pm and to desist from using the Hearse House for personal purposes."
20th October 1925
Mr Anderson and several members of the War memorial Committee being present, the Chairman said they would now consider the arrangements for the opening of the Park, which had been kindly presented by Sir James Knott. Mr Anderson informed the meeting that Sir James had arranged for Mr G E Wilkinson to perform the opening ceremony on Armistice Day, 11th November at 2:30pm. This was unanimously accepted.
Mr F C Charlton proposed and the Vicar seconded a very hearty vote of thanks to Mr Anderson for the care he had taken in the laying out of the Park. Mr Anderson suitably replied.
9th November 1925
Mr H Wolland, whose tender was 6s 6d per week, was appointed caretaker for the War Memorial and Park.
Proposed by Mr G Armatage and seconded by Mr T H Jackson - "that the Clerk draw up an agreement with Mr Wolland relative to his duties, that he be paid half-yearly and that a month's notice be given on either side to terminate on 11th November.
Proposed by Mr Jackson and seconded by Mr W B Charlton that the Clerk write to the Overseers of the remaining Ecclesiastical Parishes asking them if they are prepared to contribute towards the upkeep of the War memorial grounds.
Proposed by Mr Jackson and seconded by Mr Hunter - "that the Chairman and Mr Charlton inspect the road south of the War Memorial ground and report at the next meeting.
22nd July 1926
The Chairman explained that the meeting had been called for the purpose of deciding whatsteps should be taken to compel W J Campbell to repair the drainage to the War Memorial wall. After the Clerk had read the correspondence between him and Mr Campbell it was proposed by Mr Hunter and seconded by the Chairman - "that the Clerk inform Mr Campbell that if the repairs were not commenced within four days the Council would place the matter in the hands of their solicitors, without further delay.
Mr Jackson asked if the road from Wright's house to the tap could be put in order before the winter set in. The Chairman said he would mention this to the DC Surveyor.
25th March 1927
The Clerk read the rsignation of H Wolland as follows -
Nov 11th 1926 "I the undersigned hereby give six months notice to terminate the agreement, re the keeping of the Memorial Grounds, by reason of the renumeration being too small for the work that is done. I would still desire to continue my duties if you could grant me an additional sum of 2/- per week extra."
After a short discussion, the Clerk was instructed to remind Mr Wolland that according to the agreement his six monthsnotice ought to expire on 11th day of November and that it stand over till taht date. Also to inform him that the Council were not prepared to consider the question of extra renumeration at present.
The Clerk said that neither he nor the solicitors had been able to locate the whereabouts of W J campbell who had damaged the War Memorial wall and that solicitors had written saying that unless Mr Campbell's address could be furnished, they did not think it worthwhile proceeding any further in the matter. It was therefore decided that the account be paid (£3 12s 6d).
15th September 1927
Mr Jackson proposed and Mr Armatage seconded - "that Lady Knott be respectfully asked to fix two more seats in the Park as the seating accommodation was inadequate."
20th October 1927
The Clerk reported that Lady Knott had decided to place two more seats in the Park. Mr Jackson proposed and Mr F Charlton seconded that the Clerk should write a letter of thanks for her generous gift to the Park. Agreed.
A letter was read from Mr J P Snowdon, 'Hillcrest', asking for permission to keep the piece of ground at the back of his house in good condition, also if the Council will plant a shrubbery similar to the Park in the village. Mr Armatage proposed and Mr Charlton seconded that the application be not entertained, also to draw Mr Snowdon's attention to the encroachment on parish property by laying down a cmeent path and drain without permission, that a rental of one shilling a year payable in advance be charged on an agreement, otherwise the path and drain to be taken up. Agreed.
14th May 1928
The Clerk stated that Sir James Knott had kindly offered to erect another shelter and paint the railings, varnish the old shelter and seats in the Memorial Park at his own expense. Mr Hedley proposed that Sir James Knott's offer be accepted, Mr Jackson seconded and carried unanimously.
5th September 1928
A letter from Lady Knott was read asking permission to place a small bronze plaque on one of the stone pillars of the Heddon on the Wall War Memorial Park which involves a slight alteration to thecoping stones on the top of the pillars. The inscription on the plaque intimates that the Park was laid out, equipped and presented to your Parish Council by Sir James and Lady Knott in memory of their two sons who were killed in the war. The design of the plaque was inspected by the members present and agreed.
20th September 1923
The Chairman said the meeting had been called to consider the offer by Sir James Knott of the land in the vicinity of the War Memorial. Mr Anderson, being present, explained that the whole of the land was offered to the Parish Council unconditionally.
The following resolution proposed by Mr Armatage and seconded by Mr Charlton, was unanimously adopted - that the Parish Council on behalf of the ratepayers accept Sir James's offer, and desire to express their gratitude to the donor.
24th March 1924
The Chairman informed the meeting that Sir James Knott proposed to enclose the land which was originally covered by the pond and convert it into a small park for the use of the inhabitants of the village, but it was found that part of the land to be enclosed actually belonged to the Parish and therefore the meeting had been called to give consideration to this piece of land being included in the enclosure.
After hearing Mr Anderson's explanation, the following resolution, moved by Mr Jackson and seconded by Mr Hunter was carried unanimously - "that the Council give their approval and desire to express their gratitude to Sir james for his continued generosity.
4th June 1924
The meeting was convened for the purpose of discussing the action taken by Mr Malthouse regarding the enclosing of the existing road to the Hearse House. It was pointed out that Mr Malthouse had promised to make another rod immediately in front of the Hearse-House. After a lengthy discussion it was proposed by Mr Jackson and seconded by Mr Amos, "that a deputation consisting of the Chairman, Mr Formear and the Clerk wait upon Mr Wilkinson, Clerk to the RDC and ask his opinion on the matter." The deputation was also instructed to ask Mr Wilkinson's opinion on the closing of the footpath leading from No 2 Clayton Row to the road.
23rd June 1924
The clerk read a letter from Mr Malthouse notifying that he was fencing in the open ground in front of his house. After some discussion the following resolution moved by Mr jackson and seconded by Mr Charlton was passed - "that as far as the Parish Council is concerned they have no objection to Mr Malthouse proceeding with the wall.
9th September 1924
The Draft Deed of Gift of Land by Sir James Knott to the Parish Council was presented and read for their approval. Mr Fornear moved and Mr Armatage seconded "that the Parish Council approve the deed and express their gratitude to Sir James for his kindly gift."
21st April 1925
Proposed by Mr Armatage and seconded by Mr Hunter "that the Clerk write to Mr Malthouse pointing out that it was contrary to the conditions of the sale to close the road to the Hearse House by the fixing of a lock on the gate and to request him to cease using the Hearse House for storage purposes as it was the property of the parishioners of Heddon."
8th September 1925
After some discussion on this vexed subject the following resolution proposed by Mr Jackson and seconded by Mr F C Charlton was unanimously adopted - "that the Clerk be instructed to write to Mr Malthouse requesting him to leave the entrance gate to the road to the Hearse House unlocked from 8am to 8pm and to desist from using the Hearse House for personal purposes."
20th October 1925
Mr Anderson and several members of the War memorial Committee being present, the Chairman said they would now consider the arrangements for the opening of the Park, which had been kindly presented by Sir James Knott. Mr Anderson informed the meeting that Sir James had arranged for Mr G E Wilkinson to perform the opening ceremony on Armistice Day, 11th November at 2:30pm. This was unanimously accepted.
Mr F C Charlton proposed and the Vicar seconded a very hearty vote of thanks to Mr Anderson for the care he had taken in the laying out of the Park. Mr Anderson suitably replied.
9th November 1925
Mr H Wolland, whose tender was 6s 6d per week, was appointed caretaker for the War Memorial and Park.
Proposed by Mr G Armatage and seconded by Mr T H Jackson - "that the Clerk draw up an agreement with Mr Wolland relative to his duties, that he be paid half-yearly and that a month's notice be given on either side to terminate on 11th November.
Proposed by Mr Jackson and seconded by Mr W B Charlton that the Clerk write to the Overseers of the remaining Ecclesiastical Parishes asking them if they are prepared to contribute towards the upkeep of the War memorial grounds.
Proposed by Mr Jackson and seconded by Mr Hunter - "that the Chairman and Mr Charlton inspect the road south of the War Memorial ground and report at the next meeting.
22nd July 1926
The Chairman explained that the meeting had been called for the purpose of deciding whatsteps should be taken to compel W J Campbell to repair the drainage to the War Memorial wall. After the Clerk had read the correspondence between him and Mr Campbell it was proposed by Mr Hunter and seconded by the Chairman - "that the Clerk inform Mr Campbell that if the repairs were not commenced within four days the Council would place the matter in the hands of their solicitors, without further delay.
Mr Jackson asked if the road from Wright's house to the tap could be put in order before the winter set in. The Chairman said he would mention this to the DC Surveyor.
25th March 1927
The Clerk read the rsignation of H Wolland as follows -
Nov 11th 1926 "I the undersigned hereby give six months notice to terminate the agreement, re the keeping of the Memorial Grounds, by reason of the renumeration being too small for the work that is done. I would still desire to continue my duties if you could grant me an additional sum of 2/- per week extra."
After a short discussion, the Clerk was instructed to remind Mr Wolland that according to the agreement his six monthsnotice ought to expire on 11th day of November and that it stand over till taht date. Also to inform him that the Council were not prepared to consider the question of extra renumeration at present.
The Clerk said that neither he nor the solicitors had been able to locate the whereabouts of W J campbell who had damaged the War Memorial wall and that solicitors had written saying that unless Mr Campbell's address could be furnished, they did not think it worthwhile proceeding any further in the matter. It was therefore decided that the account be paid (£3 12s 6d).
15th September 1927
Mr Jackson proposed and Mr Armatage seconded - "that Lady Knott be respectfully asked to fix two more seats in the Park as the seating accommodation was inadequate."
20th October 1927
The Clerk reported that Lady Knott had decided to place two more seats in the Park. Mr Jackson proposed and Mr F Charlton seconded that the Clerk should write a letter of thanks for her generous gift to the Park. Agreed.
A letter was read from Mr J P Snowdon, 'Hillcrest', asking for permission to keep the piece of ground at the back of his house in good condition, also if the Council will plant a shrubbery similar to the Park in the village. Mr Armatage proposed and Mr Charlton seconded that the application be not entertained, also to draw Mr Snowdon's attention to the encroachment on parish property by laying down a cmeent path and drain without permission, that a rental of one shilling a year payable in advance be charged on an agreement, otherwise the path and drain to be taken up. Agreed.
14th May 1928
The Clerk stated that Sir James Knott had kindly offered to erect another shelter and paint the railings, varnish the old shelter and seats in the Memorial Park at his own expense. Mr Hedley proposed that Sir James Knott's offer be accepted, Mr Jackson seconded and carried unanimously.
5th September 1928
A letter from Lady Knott was read asking permission to place a small bronze plaque on one of the stone pillars of the Heddon on the Wall War Memorial Park which involves a slight alteration to thecoping stones on the top of the pillars. The inscription on the plaque intimates that the Park was laid out, equipped and presented to your Parish Council by Sir James and Lady Knott in memory of their two sons who were killed in the war. The design of the plaque was inspected by the members present and agreed.
Plaque, Memorial Park, Heddon on the Wall. Photo A Curtis (2011).
11th January 1929
A letter from the Wylam Parish Council asking the Council to adopt a similar proposal to the Minister of Transport for freeing the Bridge at Wylam was read. After some discussion, Mr Anderson proposed that the following resolution be sent to the Ministry of Transport - "that we the Council of the Parish of Heddon on the Wall, Northumberland, do petition the Ministry of Transport to assist the County Council of Northumberland by making a grant of not less than 33 1/3% of the cost of purchasing Wylam Bridge, Northumberland and so free the bridge from toll." The local inhabitants suffer a hardship by reason of the bridge not being free from toll and we therefore make the following grounds our basis of such appeal -
1. The excessive tolls are a burden to all who have the necessity to use the bridge:
a Residents going to business by train
b All residents in North Wylan and adjoining parishes travelling west by train
c Miners and other workmen
d Local business men delivering goods to customers
e Farmers moving stock for market
2. Drivers of otor or other vehicles who will not or cannot pay the toll must detout 10 miles
3. The road leading to the bridge connects the two arterial roads from Newcastle upon Tyne to the west.
4. The road leading to the bridge is the principal link between the many villages within a 10 mile area.
5. The bridge is the only means of egress from the County of Durham and the south.
6. The progress of the Parish of Wylam is retarded.
A letter from the Wylam Parish Council asking the Council to adopt a similar proposal to the Minister of Transport for freeing the Bridge at Wylam was read. After some discussion, Mr Anderson proposed that the following resolution be sent to the Ministry of Transport - "that we the Council of the Parish of Heddon on the Wall, Northumberland, do petition the Ministry of Transport to assist the County Council of Northumberland by making a grant of not less than 33 1/3% of the cost of purchasing Wylam Bridge, Northumberland and so free the bridge from toll." The local inhabitants suffer a hardship by reason of the bridge not being free from toll and we therefore make the following grounds our basis of such appeal -
1. The excessive tolls are a burden to all who have the necessity to use the bridge:
a Residents going to business by train
b All residents in North Wylan and adjoining parishes travelling west by train
c Miners and other workmen
d Local business men delivering goods to customers
e Farmers moving stock for market
2. Drivers of otor or other vehicles who will not or cannot pay the toll must detout 10 miles
3. The road leading to the bridge connects the two arterial roads from Newcastle upon Tyne to the west.
4. The road leading to the bridge is the principal link between the many villages within a 10 mile area.
5. The bridge is the only means of egress from the County of Durham and the south.
6. The progress of the Parish of Wylam is retarded.
Wylam Bridge from the west. Photo by A Curtis (2011).
31st March 1929
The Clerk stated that the grass in the Memorial Park was in a bad state and required cutting. After some discussion the Clerk was instructed to write to Mr Wolland.
Mr Armatage mentioned that the Common footpath off the main road on the Chesters Estate was in a dirty state by persons tipping rubbish on the side of the footpath. The Clerk was instructed to write to the agent Chesters Estate with regard to the matter.
22nd April 1929
Mr Hedley proposed that a noticeboard be put up at the entrance to the Common footpath, re persons depositing rubbish on the path.
1st July 1929
The Clerk read a letter from Mr G E Wilkinson, Solicitor to Sir James Knott stating that Sir James had decided through his company, Samares Investments Ltd. to transfer sufficient 2 1/2% ?[shares] into the name of the Parish Council to bring in an income of £52 per annum for the future preservation and upkeep of the Memorial Park, on the understanding that the Settlement is to supplement the rate levied by the Council and is not to be in lieu of it.
A copy of the Trust Deed was then read.
Mr Hedley proposed that the Trust should be accepted on behalf of the Council and Sir James Knott be thanked for his generosity in providing towards the upkeep of the Memorial Park.
Mr Tulip drew the Council's attention to the damage to the seats in the Memorial Park shelters by persons cutting letterson the seats. Agreed the Clerk place notices in the form of a tablet on the inside of the shelter - "Any person found damaging this shelter will be prosecuted". Also tablets in the Park - "Please keep off the grass".
On a motion of Mr Armstrong and seconded by Mr Hunter it was resolved that all the members of the Parish Council be the committee in the Memorial Park Trust. The present Chairman to act as Chairman of the meetings. The Clerk to the Council to act as Secretary and Treasurer.
10th September 1929
The Clerk read a letter from Messr. Wilkinson & Marshall, Newcastle, enclosing transfer to be signed of the Consolidated Stock for the memorial Park Trst Fund by the Council. The transfer was duly signed and sealed.
10th November 1930
Mr Anderson drew attention to the water supply at the tap near the Square Yard stating that it took over an hour to get a pailful, Mr Armatage proposed that Mr Hedley be written to by the Clerk drawing his attention to the inadequate supply at the tap and asking him to give it his attention as soon as possible.
13th April 1931
Mr Hunter asked if anything could be done to get a better supply of water for the Parish. After considerable discussion it was decided that Mr Taylor would interview Mr Horton, Newcastle Water Works as to terms for supplying the Parish. The Clerk to ask Mr Jameson, Sanitary Inspector RD Council to attend the next meeting.
The Clerk stated that the grass in the Memorial Park was in a bad state and required cutting. After some discussion the Clerk was instructed to write to Mr Wolland.
Mr Armatage mentioned that the Common footpath off the main road on the Chesters Estate was in a dirty state by persons tipping rubbish on the side of the footpath. The Clerk was instructed to write to the agent Chesters Estate with regard to the matter.
22nd April 1929
Mr Hedley proposed that a noticeboard be put up at the entrance to the Common footpath, re persons depositing rubbish on the path.
1st July 1929
The Clerk read a letter from Mr G E Wilkinson, Solicitor to Sir James Knott stating that Sir James had decided through his company, Samares Investments Ltd. to transfer sufficient 2 1/2% ?[shares] into the name of the Parish Council to bring in an income of £52 per annum for the future preservation and upkeep of the Memorial Park, on the understanding that the Settlement is to supplement the rate levied by the Council and is not to be in lieu of it.
A copy of the Trust Deed was then read.
Mr Hedley proposed that the Trust should be accepted on behalf of the Council and Sir James Knott be thanked for his generosity in providing towards the upkeep of the Memorial Park.
Mr Tulip drew the Council's attention to the damage to the seats in the Memorial Park shelters by persons cutting letterson the seats. Agreed the Clerk place notices in the form of a tablet on the inside of the shelter - "Any person found damaging this shelter will be prosecuted". Also tablets in the Park - "Please keep off the grass".
On a motion of Mr Armstrong and seconded by Mr Hunter it was resolved that all the members of the Parish Council be the committee in the Memorial Park Trust. The present Chairman to act as Chairman of the meetings. The Clerk to the Council to act as Secretary and Treasurer.
10th September 1929
The Clerk read a letter from Messr. Wilkinson & Marshall, Newcastle, enclosing transfer to be signed of the Consolidated Stock for the memorial Park Trst Fund by the Council. The transfer was duly signed and sealed.
10th November 1930
Mr Anderson drew attention to the water supply at the tap near the Square Yard stating that it took over an hour to get a pailful, Mr Armatage proposed that Mr Hedley be written to by the Clerk drawing his attention to the inadequate supply at the tap and asking him to give it his attention as soon as possible.
13th April 1931
Mr Hunter asked if anything could be done to get a better supply of water for the Parish. After considerable discussion it was decided that Mr Taylor would interview Mr Horton, Newcastle Water Works as to terms for supplying the Parish. The Clerk to ask Mr Jameson, Sanitary Inspector RD Council to attend the next meeting.
Extracts from Parish of Heddon on the Wall Receipt and Payment Account
17th December 1902 Paid to H Amos to providing one tree guard to tree planed on Diamond Jubilee Day, £5 5s 0d
18th December 1902
Paid to J and G W Hunter to putting in concrete foundations to above tree guard, £1 18s 0d
19th December 1902
Paid to Thomas Berkley to providing one tree guard to tree planted on Coronation Day, £3 5s 1d
30 March 1903
Paid to John Wright to cleaning, manuring and looking after trees planted on Diamond Jubilee and Coronation Days, 5s 0d
The amount of 5s 0d was paid to John Wright each year, the last payment being made on 29th March 1913.
22nd April 1922
J Murray & Son were paid £3 10s 0d for "making footbridge at Heddon Mill".
26th March 1926
J Murray & Son were paid £3 17s 6d for "repairs to seat and making and fixing notice board".
In 1926, H Wolland was Caretaker of the Park and was paid £8 9s 0d on 20th May and 10th November.
He was paid similar sums in 1927 and 1928.
18th December 1902
Paid to J and G W Hunter to putting in concrete foundations to above tree guard, £1 18s 0d
19th December 1902
Paid to Thomas Berkley to providing one tree guard to tree planted on Coronation Day, £3 5s 1d
30 March 1903
Paid to John Wright to cleaning, manuring and looking after trees planted on Diamond Jubilee and Coronation Days, 5s 0d
The amount of 5s 0d was paid to John Wright each year, the last payment being made on 29th March 1913.
22nd April 1922
J Murray & Son were paid £3 10s 0d for "making footbridge at Heddon Mill".
26th March 1926
J Murray & Son were paid £3 17s 6d for "repairs to seat and making and fixing notice board".
In 1926, H Wolland was Caretaker of the Park and was paid £8 9s 0d on 20th May and 10th November.
He was paid similar sums in 1927 and 1928.
