The Glamorgan Gazette

BRIDGEND POLICE COURT. S atur LI-ay.-B f -Alderman Wm. Llewellyn (chairman), Coi. J. 1. D. Ni eholl, Dr. E. J. Parry, Messrs. R. L. Knight, T. E. Hopkins, Rees John, and Li. Jones. In Danger Zone.—John Rees, labourer, and James Maddocks, miner, both of Llanharua, were charged with causing an obstruction in Derwen Road on December 15th.-P.C. Arnold said that at 8.40 en Monday night he was near the Police Station door, and saw defendants under the influence of drink, blocking the high- way, and surrounded by a crowd. Witness separated tiuiiii, mid. took their names and addresses.—Fined 15s. each. Hand Above His Head."—Edmund John, a Bridgend porter, was up for disorderliness which was characterised by a certain eccen- tricity. iofordiiig- to P.C. Norman, defendant on Dec. 15th, was in Caroline Street, where he used bad language, and very much under the influence of drink, ran about with his hands above his hood.—Again 15s. was the penalty. Mother and Son.—Mrs. Edith Richards and her -)n IVil.liam John Richards, described as a labourer, were charged with using offensive language in Cross Street, Bridgend, on Decem- ber 17th.-P.S. Loveluck said defendants were ejected by the manager of the Bridgend Cinema, and outside they created a disturb- ance. Mrs. Richards, who was said to have been up before a "number of times," was fined 25" and her offspring tl. More Language.—Evan Thomas, collier, of Kenfig Hill, was fined 15s. for using objection- able language in Bedford Street on Dec. 13th. Murphy's Contempt. Joseph Murphy, a collier from Caerau, is no respector of persons, and is not overawed by the majesty of the law, or concerned about the dignity of its officers, or the dread tribunal in which justice is locally administered. On the Saturday week he showed his contempt in a most unmistakable manner, as now described by Sergt. Loveluck. The charge as formulated against Murphy was that, "on Dec. 15th, he unlawfully did spit on .the floor of a certain public hall, to wit, the Police Court." The sergeant said defendant was sum- moned by his wite, and at her allegation (whatever it might have been) he did not seem to have been much perturbed, since he whiled away the tedious time of waiting by chewing tobacco, and spitting on the floor. Witness called his attention to the notice board pro- hibiting such levity, when he showed his con- tempt by again spitting on the ffoor.-The Magistrates imposed a fine of 5s. Straying Steeds.—On the evidence of P.C. Norman, William Eddie, haulier, Bridgend, was fined 10s. for allowing two horses to stray in Park Street, Bridgend, on the 14th inst. Husband's Dilemma.—Thomas Rees, collier, was summoned under the Registration Act for not notifying his change of residence from Maesteg to Nantyffyllon. Defendant told the constable in the case that he had only just mar- ried, and was looking for a house, and "would s. id to it at oiice.He was fined 10s. Something Against Him."—John Ricketts, wheelwright, St. Bride's Major, was summoned fer allowing 13 cattle to stray on Dec. 14th. "I believe there is something against him," said the Chairman, with a knowing smile.—Mr. Walter Hughes (clerk): Yes, sir; a very long list.—Fined 30> and 4s. 6d. costs. Saw Brass "Lying About" and Took It.-Geo. Lukeman (45), described as a pumpsman, of 23 James Road, Blaengarw, was convicted of steal- ing 1201bs. of brass, the property of the Inter- national Colliery Company, valued at t6, dur- ing the last 16 months. Incriminating evidence was given by P.S. Watts. Defendant pleaded guilty to stealing the brass, which, he said, he saw lying about. He pleaded for leniency.—The Chairman: It is a bad case, and only the fact that there is nothing against you saves you from going to gaol. You are fined < £ 10 or one month. Risky.—George Hopes, collier, Humphreys Terrace, Caerau, on the evidence of Colliery .Unstable William Culleton, was fined £ l for, on JtC. 7th, carrying up the Caerau mine a quantity ot firewood in a way likely to endanger life or limb. Dear "Forty Winks." William Roberts, Hamilton Terrace, Caerau, was fined = £ 1 for sleeping in the Coegnant Colliery. Horse Feed Theft.—George Giles, ostler, The Avenue, Pontycymmer, and Jenkin Da vies, haulier, Pantglas Bungalow, were charged with being implicated in the theft of certain horse feed, value 3s. 6d., from the Ffaldau Colliery Co.—Giles, a man of 71, was fined Xl, and Davies, a much younger man, k3. A Visit to Bath.—Sarah James, 35 Chelten- ham Terrace, Bridgend, summoned Herbert Newell, collier, Waunwen Terrace, Pricetown, Nantymoel, who she alleged to be the father of her child.—Mr. J. T. Howell was for the com- plainant Mr. Harry Lewis defended.—The facts were thaj, complainant, who already had had one child by the defendant, had since, as alleged, been visited by Newell at her parent's house. The visits were said to have been pretty frequent in the summer and autumn of last year. Complainant, after she had given a part of her evidence, collapsed, and wrs carried out of the witness-box in a fainting condition.— After the adjournment, the case was resumed.— Defendant strongly denied the paternity, stat- ing that at the time in question he and a friend were spending a week's holiday at Bath. He gave details of the visits and produced a letter in confirmation from North Parade Passage, Bath, where he was domiciled for the week.- In the sequel, the Chairman said: "We make no order." A Breaker of Boilers.In another case, Hannah Catherine Powell, 4 Bryn Villa, Ponty- rhyl, summoned Charles Davies, Railway Ter- race, Blaengarw. Defendant was described as a breaker of boilers, and the female child (of which he was said to be the father) was born on August 15th last. Complainant (whose ad- vocate was Mr. Harry Lewis) told a circumstan- tial story iJÍ most emphatic terms. In her evi- dence she described defendant as an ammuni- tion worker, and swore to the admissions he had made to her. She had known him since Bank Holiday, 1916, and had walked out with him and another girl, the latter of whom was escorted by Morris Brownfi a Frenchman. She and defendant t went one way, and the other couple in»another direction.-In reply to Mr. L. M. Thomas (who defended), complainant said when she spoke to defendant about it he an- swered, "If it's me, ifs me." He did not say, "I am not the father." In the presence of wit- ness's mother, he said, "I have never before had a blot on my character," to which witness's mother made reply "What price my daughter?" —After further cross-examination, Mr. L. M. Thomas had a "word" with his client. There- after, Mr. Thomas said defendant accepted the proposal he had put to him, and so far as he was concerned, he would not oppose the order.— The Chairman A very wise course of action.— Mr. Thomas: The girl gave her evidence very clearly, and there is not the slightest doubt he is the father. At the same time, he was not satisfied, being away for a certain period. The only question is the amount of the order. De- fendant is not a munition worker. He is "a breaker of boilers," for a person named Lewis, and simply receives a wage. He has lost three fingers, and can't get a job. He has a father and mother to keep.—The Chairman: Was there ever any talk of marriage--No, sir.—The Bench made an order for 5s. a week, with costs. Mondav.-Before: Mr. D. H. Lloyd and -Dr. E. J. Parry. Young Idea Again.-Malcomb Carey (10), Wm. Corneck (13), Richard David Thomas (13), and Owen Thomas (10) were charged with hav- ing, on December 9th, at Pontycymmer, mali- ciously committed damage to five trams, the property of the New Braichycymmer Colliery Company, thereby daing injury to the amount of 10s.-The case having been proved, it was stated, on behalf of its representative, that the Company was anxious to put an end to these dangerous practices.—Mr. Lloyd severely repri- manded the little urchins, bound them over for six months, and ordered them to pay the dam- age 2s. 6d. each.

BEVRN&Coot Ltdol CARDIFF, NEWPORT, PONTYPRIDD &oM Predic'ed several Months ago a Famine in Furniture, atil p,ocpeded to cram every Mrdnch nd every Reserve Warehouse with Hugre tt,ck s of Furni tuie, Pianos, Carpets, ccc., &c., and ile tlilib able to supply every- thing for Complete t- urijishing very much under to-day's Usual Prices Furniture FOR THE Million! THE FURNITURE FAMINE! Has arrived Many Firms are very short of Stock We still have Immense Stocks Which we are offering much under the pr; sent Values Delivery Free by Road or Rail up to 200 miles from any of our numerous Branches. The Train Fares of Cash Customers paid. ——————— iii. I' 1

I DOGGED MAN FROM BRYNMENYN. I Perverted Taste-Greyhound Before Wife! Isaac James Stock, a collier, living at Green- field, Brynmenyn, was summoned by his wife, Catherine, a respectably dressed, pleasant-faced woman, of The Avenue, Pontycymmer, who alleged desertion.—Defendant: She deserted me. —Compliinant said she married in 1901, and her husband's wages, with those of his son, to- talled > £ 1 a day. Defendant repeatedly told her to clear out, and also had ill-used her. Many times he had threatened to "kill and murder her," and his conduct was perfectly unendur- able. The climax came when he took the grey- hound to bed with him. (Laughter.)—The Chairman (Alderman Wm. Llewellyn) Why did he take the greyhound to bed with him,- I don't know; I can't say. He is very deter- mined, and wants me to keep out of the house. It is nothing but dogs and rabbits for everlast- ing. My life is a perfect misery.—Defendant: I was in bed after the beer.—The following note was put in which Mrs. Stock left be- hind her when she left:—" December 2nd, 1917. To Isaac Stock. You know you told me and the children twice last week to clear out, which you have told me many times before, and as you prefer the dog to me, I think it better to take you at your word, a" your tongue is filthy, and your hands are none too safe and I don't see why I should be a punching-ball for you. Of course, there is a law to make you maintain me. I am letting you know the rent is due a week to riorrow, so don't interfere with me in any way. I am your lawful wife, Katie Stock.ihe Bench made an order of mainten- ance at the rate of 25/- a week (the instalments to be paid through the Court), and bound defen- dant over to be of good behaviour for six months.

CAERAU BUILDER'S MORTAR DEVICES. On Saturday at Bridgend—before Alderman Wm. Llewellyn (chairman) and other Magis- trates—W. Goodwin Jones, builder, Cymmer Road, Caerau, was charged that in erecting cer- tain buildings in a street at Newtown, Maesteg, he did not cause the same to be enclosed with walls constructed of stone solidly put together with good mortar compounded of good lime and clean sharp sand or other suitable material.— Proceedings were taken under the Public Health Act at the instance of Maesteg Urban District Council, whose clerk (Alderman E. E. Davies) conducted the prosecution. Mr. Harry Lewis (Messrs. Lewis and Llewellyn, Bridgend) defended.—In opening, Alderman Davies said this was a prosecution by Maesteg District Council against defendant for offences under Bye-Laws 11 and 12, relating to new streets and buildings. The Council regarded the case as a very serious one. Unfortunately, the present was not the first time they had been compelled to bring similar proceedings against the defen- dant. In addition, he had been repeatedly warned. Apparentiy, however, he took no no- tice either of warnings or of proceedings, but persisted in this irregular practice. The advo- cate here produced samples of the mortar in question, taken by the surveyor (Hr. S. J. Har- pur) from defendant's mortar mill, which was conveniently situated nea r the refuse tip. Knowi that it was obviously wrong to use that material for the purpose, he always kept near the mortar mill a heap of.proper clinker, which never got less and was there for show purposes only, all the material being taken from the tip. When the surveyor inspected the mortar mill, there was only house refuse to be seen, though when he returned the refuse was covered by clinker.—Mr. Harry Lewis objected. —Alderman Davies: I want to show it was a continuous offence, and that defendant resorted to these devices.—Mr. Harpur was called, and in evidence bore out the opening statement in detail.—Defendant now said he put the best material he could into his buildings.—A convic- tion for a simiiar offence was put in, and the Magistrates inflicted a fined of .£5, and costs- in all £6 12s. 9d.

PONTYCYMMER. I C.E.M.S.—A special meeting of the St. Theo- dore's C.E.M.S. was held in the Parish Church on Tuesday, when an address on The Bless- ings of the Holy Communion" was given by the secretary, Mr. Philip Greville. Ordination.—At Llandaff Cathedral, on Fri- day last (St. Thomas' Day) Rev. John David Morgan, L.D., curate of St. David's Church, Pontycymmer, was ordained priest by the Lord Bishop of Llandaff. Sacred Concert.—At the Rink, Pontycymmer, on Sunday night, an excellent concert was given, the proceeds being for the Garw Glee Society, to assist in the continuance of their charitable work. The chairman was Mr. J. Morgan Owen, Pontycymmer. The artistes were Madame C. M. Lewis, Blaengarw; Madame E. Roberts, Miss May Bowen, Pontycymmer; Driver David Jones, A.S.C., Messrs. Isaac James, Tom Lewis (Ponty- cymmer) and Mr. Isaac Morris (Blaengarw), with "Poor Old Joe," in character. There was a large audience. Prior to the vote of thanks a collection was made for Driver D. Jones. Tabernacle Y.P. Society.—The members of the above Society spent a most profitable and in- teresting evening on Wednesday of last week, when they were entertained by Misses Francis A. Evans' and Annie Jane Davies^ Sunday School Classes. Mr. D. C. Jones presided. Miss Linda Griffiths accompanied. The excellent pro- gramme consisted of the following:—Pianoforte solo, Miss Myra Davies; story, Miss Gwyneth Bissett; solo, Miss Ceridwen Evans; debate, Misses Sarah Thomas, Annie May John, Cassie Myra Davies and Ceridwen Evan-s; story, Miss Jones, and Maggie Evans; penillion singing, Miss Gwyneth Lewis; pianoforte duet, Misses Edith Owen; solo, Miss Annie May John; story, Miss Ethel Thomas; duet. Misses Ceridwen Evans and Annie May John; song, members of both classes. All the contributors to the pro- gramme acquitted themselves admirably, and great praise is due to Misses Annie Jane Davies and Francis A. Evans for providing the large and appreciative audience with such an excellent treat.

Advertise in the "Glamorgan Gazette." If I you want to gall, buy, or excuange, you cannot do better.

IGARW GLEANINGS I (By LLOFFWR ARALL.) Congratulations to Mr. Evan Williams, son of Mr. T. Williams, late of the Llanharran Hotel, Pontycymmer, who has been gazetted second- lieutenant in the Machine Gun Corps. Also to Mr. Elias J. Jones, son of Mr. Llew- ellyn Jones, J.P., Pontycymmer, upon his ap- pointment as clerk to the Food Executive Officer for the Ogmore and Garw area. Mistletoe was sold at Blaengarw at 3d. per lb. This is a new war-time idea. Mr. David Davies, checkweigher, Ocean Col- liery, Blaengarw, was presented with a travel- ling bag by his fellow workmen in recognition of services rendered. A certain lady may be seen daily polishing the parlour window. Is it because she is the proud possessor of a new sideboard? Another lady in the Garw went to a wedding in great style-with borrowed gaiters. c. A certain nut, after spending half an hour trying to teach a local gent the proper way to whistle, suddenly found he had been had! Two Garwitea went to Coychurch to fetch potatoes, and upon the return journey missed one another-and have not met since. If no trace, full description may be given later. Lloffwr Arall" takes the opportunity to wish all readers a bright and prosperous New Year. May the next Christmas see peace and good will reigning on earth once more.

Tussles with a Constable, and is Handcflffed. j At Bridgend Police Court on Thursday last 1 week, a rough, unkempt looking man, of 42, I named Daniel Richards, a labourer, said to I' have no fixed place of abode, though working- i for the time at Treoes, was charged with assaulting P.C. Percival Mead in the execution of his duty in Coychurch Road on the previous evening., Defendant denied the assault.—The constable stated that at 8.45 p.m. he saw de- fendant in Coychurch village, under the influ- ence of drink, and witness had received a com- plaint that he had assaulted Mr. William Howells, a licensed victualler, of Treoes. Richards began to threaten Howells, who was with him. Witness advised him to be quiet, and go awa y,but he refused. Witness went to- wards him, when he made a rush at him (wit- ness), and kicked him several times on the legs. They then closed, and fell. Witness applied the handcuffs, and with assistance brought his man in a trap to the Police Station at Bridg- end, where he was detained.—William Howells, licensed victualler, Treoes, said defendant had been working for him. On this occasion defen- dant assaulted him before the policeman ar- rived, and afterwards the P.C.—Defendant: He hit me with a hammer, and I pushed him.- Inspector Rees Davies reported that defendant was a "perfect blackguard," having been 34 times previously before the Court, charged with rape, robbery with violence, amd other offences. The first occasion he was before the Court was in April 8th, 1916, when he was sentenced to six months for assaulting the police at Ogmore f Vale. He had also been convicted at Ponty- pridd, Llantrisant, and Cowbridge.—The Bench J passed sentence of one month.

) OGMORE VALE. I Ball.-A successful ball took place on Christ- mas Eve at the Ogmore Vale Workmen's Hall. There was a crowded attendance, and the dance was most enj oyable. Mr. Dan Thomas was the M.C., and Messrs. Davies' excellent band was in attendance. Benefit Concert.—The benefit concert held at the Workmen's Hall, Ogmore Vale, in aid of Mr. T. Witts, Llewellyn Street, Ogmore Vale, who has been indisposed for a long time, was a gr^at success. All the artistes gave their ser- vices, and worked for the good cause. Council- lor D. J. Thomas presided, and assistance was rendered by the joint secretaries (Messrs. D. J. Evans and Pitcher), Mr. D. Capel, and Rev. E. W. Hough. Popular Trooper. The many friends of Trooper Wm. Davies, 11th Hussars, of 21 Brook- land Terrace, Pricetown, Nantymoel, who was wounded in the war, will be pleased to hear that he is progressing favourably. "Willie," as he was familiarly known, was very popular in civil life. He has two brothers—Sidney and Tom—doing "their bit." They belong to the M.T.C., and are sons of Mr. and Mrs. James Davies, Brookland Terrace. A Grand Benefit Concert took place at the Ogmore Vale Workmen's Hall on Wednesday of last week in aid of Mr. Dan Elward, Ogmore Vale, who has been laid up for some time with a very severe illness. The concert was a most enjoyable one. All the artistes from the sur- rounding districts gave their services free, and are to be complimented on the performance. Mr. F. Dyke agent, Wyndham and Aber Col- lieries, presided over a large attendance. The secretary was Mr. E. J. Thomas; treasurer, Mr. D. H. Reed. Mr. John Morris rendered valu- able assistance. Cantata.—A most successful and enjoyable cantata, entitled, "Santa Claus' Arrival," was performed by the children of St. John's Sunday School (assisted by a few of the adult scholars) at the Mission Room, Ogmore Vale, on Thurs- day, Dec. 20th. The chair was occupied by the Vicar (Rev. Hugh Thomas, M.A.), and there was a Crowded attendance. The children looked exceedingly pretty on the stage, and the various songs and choruses were rendered in a manner which reflected the greatest credit upon Mr. W. F. Pugh (the conductor), and the accompanist (Miss Walton, organist of St. John's Church). The rcjie of "Santa Claus" was taken by Mr. G. Owen, who was true to tradition, and distri- buted Teddy bears, dolls, apples, etc., in a most lavish manner. The cantata was followed by a laughable sketch, entitled, "My Wife's Re- lations," which was excellently staged, and caused roars of laughter. The following took part :—Mrs. Wheeler, Mrs. Stephens, Miss R. Ashman, Miss F. Spratt, and Messrs. E. Hamer, G. Owen, P. Bye, E. Wheeler, and W. F. Pugh. Miss Doris Lewis gave two recitations, and must be congratulated on her perfect enuncia- tion. Mr. Daniels also gave a funny "stump" speech. Thanks are due to all who assisted in decorating the stage, etc., and special praise is due to Mr. Marks, who worked exceedingly hard to make the cantata a success. Late Mr. Edward Edwards.—Mr. Edward Edwards, schoolmaster, of Ogmore Vale, a well- known personality in the public life of Mid- Glamorgan, died on Saturdayp after a long ill- ness. He was born at Llantwit Vardre 53 years ago, and settled in the Ogmore Valley 31 years ago, first as headmaster of the Wyndham School, and afterwards as headmaster of the Tynewydd Schools, Ogmore Vale. He was one of the pioneers of the Independent Labour Party in South Wales, acting for some time as secretary of the South Wales Independent Lab- our Party Federation. A few years before the outbreak of war he attended the International Socialists' Conference at Stuttgart. Mr. Ed- wards was a mem ber of the Bridgend Board of Guardians for 14 years, and was a member of the Southerndown Golf Club, taking part in most of the club ompetitions. He was always a bold and tireless exponent of his ecomonic and political views, and some years ago did an im- mense amount of propaganda work in the min- ing valleys of Mid-Glamorgan, which had a considerable influence in the establishment of the Mid-Glamorgan Labour Party. But even his strongest opponents recognised his sincer- ity and courage, and a few months ago he had a striking proof of the respect in which he was held by the public, a testimonial being pre- sented to him. which was subscribed for by members of all parties. He took a keen in- terest in the co-operative movement, and acted as auditor for branches of the Co-operative So- ciety in his district. He was also at one time secretary for his district of the National Union of Teachers. He was a correspondent of the "Glamorgan Gazette." His wife (a daughter of Rev. Taliesin Jones, of Rumney) and one daughter survive. The funeral took place at Ogmore Vale on Wednesday, and was very largely attended. Re- presentatives were present from all the leading I.L.P. branches in South Wales, together, with many representatives of the local branches of the Trade Unions. The Miners' Federation was represented by Mr. Tom Lucas, J.P. (miners' agent for the Ogmore and Gilfach district), and Mr. Vernon Hartshorn, J.P., Maesteg.

BLAENGARW. I Lecture.—On Tuesday of last week an instruc- tive lecture was delivered to a large audience by Rev. D. C. Davies, Trinity, Blaengarw, entitled "Reconstruction." The chairman was Mr. T. E. Lewis, J.P., of Blaengarw. At the close the usual vote of thanks was passed. Bethania Baptist Church. The Young People's Mutual Improvement Society meeting on Thursday night last week was well attended. The chairman was Mr. David Meredith. A con- cert was held, when solos were sung by Miss Winifred Thomas, Mr. Emrys Davies, Miss Edith M. Thomas, Miss Annie J. Davies; quart- ette, Mr. John Francis and friends; quartette, Mr. W. Eynon and friends; recitations, Messrs. W. John, Idwal Jones, Daniel Meredith. Mrs. J. Griffiths was the accompanist. Concert.—At the miscellaneous concert held at the Workmen's Hall, Blaengarw, excellent renderings were given by the following artistes: Soprano, Miss E. M. Lewis, Tonypandy; tenor, Mr. Todd Jones, Treherbert; bass, Mr. Joe James, Blaengarw; elocutionist, Miss Francis, Llaethferch; accompanist, Miss Bishop, A.L.C.; assisted by the Orpheus Glee Society (conductor, Mr. G. H. Sparkes, A.T.C.L.) The proceeds were in aid of the Society, who, after defraying expenses, will hand over the surplus to the Cardiff Infirmary. The secretarial duties were carried out by Mr. Alf. Davies. The chair- man was Rev. D. C. Davies, Blaengarw.

Winning Numbers of Prize Drawing in aid of I E. H. Hopkin, Aber kenfig289 2332; 2593; 2604; 1810; 2897; 941; 449; 1461: 1923; 1840; 61 1 623; 381.—Prizes must be claimed within 14 days. Hon. secretary, Mr. Ivor Jones, Bryn Road, Tondu. 1834

I MAESTEG. Rev. J. T. Parry, pastor of Zoar Church, gave a very interesting lecture at the chapel vestry on Wednesday evening last, the subject of his discourse being "An Hour with Phillips. Horeb." Mr. Tom Evans presided. After an inspiring lecture, a vote of thanks to the speaker and chairman terminated the service. Tabor Welsh C.M.—The annual preaching services of Tabor Welsh Calvinistic Methodist Church were held on Christmas Eve and Christ- mas Day. The officiating ministers were Rev. D. Williams, Treherbert, and Rev. R. J. Jones, Penygraig. There were large congregations throughout the services, and a special offering was made towards the building fund. Allotment Association.—At a joint meeting of the Allotment Associations, in conjunction with the members of the Maesteg Urban Dis- trict Council Allotment Committee, it was unanimously decided that a vegetable and flower show be held next year. A large num- ber of prominent gentlemen are to be invited to become patrons, and the interest shown by in- dividual allotment committee-men augurs well for a successful exhibition. Mr. E. Barnett and Mr. H. J. Exall have been appointed joint sec- retaries. Wedding.—A pretty wedding was solemnised at Carmel Chapel on Sunday morning, the con- tracting parties being Mr. Rees Richards, son of Mr. and Mrs. Rees Richards, of Bank St., and Miss Blodwen Thomas, daughter of Mr and Mrs. John Thomas, of Llwydarth Road. Rev. W. R. Bowen officiated. The bride was given away by her father, while Mr. John Richards (brother of the bridegroom) acted as best man. The bridesmaids were Miss Ceridwen Thomas (sister of the bride) and Miss Catherine A. Richards (sister of the bridegroom). The pre- sents were numerous and costly. Singing Festival-The annual singing festival of Tabernacle Welsh Baptist Church was held on Sunday, under the able conductorship of Mi- Jos. Morris (Llwydfab), Maesteg. The choris- ters were assisted by an orchestra. There wss a large attendance, the chapel being packed.. Praise is due to the conductor fot the excellent singing. The presidents of the services respec- tively were Messrs. T. Joseph, William Nicho- las, and Rev. J. M. Lewis (pastor). Portions of Scripture were recited by Miss Dinah Griffiths, Master Gwiiym Lloyd, and Mr. Dd. James Jones. Addresses were given by Messrs. D. Williams, E. D. Joshua, and John Roderick. There was a good programme of music, well rendered. Marriage.—On Christmas Day a wedding was solemnised at Bethel English Baptist Church, Maesteg. The contracting parties were Cpl. D. T. Watkins (Welsh Guards), son of Mr. D. Watkins, Bridgend Road, and Miss A. J. Ray, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Ray, of Edinburgh. The d/uties of best man were performed by Mr. J. Howells. The bridesmands were Miss S. J. Watkins, Miss Evans, and Miss S. J. Evans. After the ceremony, the wedding breakfast was partaken of at the home of the bridegroom. The honeymoon is being spent in Scotland. The happy couple Were the recipients of many use- ful presents. The officiating minister was Rev. E. W. Probert (Bethel). Mr. R. Ferrier played Mendelsshon's Wedding Mar.;h. Welsh Congregational Churches.—The annual singing festival in connection with the Welsh Congregational Churches of the Maesteg dis- trict was held at Carmel Chapel on Christmas Day, under the able conductorship of Mr. Rhys Williams, Bridgend. Conductors of the rehear- sals were Messrs. S. H. Page, L. T.S.C., Zoar, and E. Gwynfryn Evans, Ebenezer. The or- ganist was Mr. Willie Morgan ;conductor of the orchestra, Mr. W. J. Dunn; chairman of com- mittee, Mr. Isaac Jenkins; treasurer, Mr. GwiJym Rees, Ebenezer; and secretary, Mr. Ed. Jenkins. Rev. W. R. Bowen presided over the morning service; Rev. D. Davies (Llan) in the afternoon, and Rev. J. T. Parry )Zoar) in the evening. The conductor is worthy of special mention for the success of the festival. Maesteg Wireless Expert.—Captain E. Powell, of Maesteg, who has recently been appointed assistant- commandant of a wireless school, joined the Royal Flying Corps in January, 1915. He went to France in February, 1915, as a wireless operator, and went through a number of famous battles, including the great battle of Ypres. In October, 1915, he was promoted second-lieutenant on the field, and obtained his captaincy in June, 1916. All the while he has been on active service in France. Before the war he was a student at Balli-Bangor College. I In October last he married Miss Janey Cad- J waladr, daughter of Rev. W. Cadwaladr, Mallgre Bay, Anglesey. He has two brothers- j William and Thomas Powell—on active sen-ice, and the latter, was wounded last August in France. Presentation.—A presentation meeting was held at Salem Vestry, Nantyffyllon, on Wednes- day evening? of last week, when Rev. D. C. Howells (pastor of the church) and Mrs. Howells, were made the recipients of a hand- I some testimonial, the occasion being to mark the 25 years' pastorate of the rev. gentleman at Salem Baptist Church. There was a large at- tendance. Rev. Iorwerth Jones (Bethania) pre- sided. Mr. Joshua Williams, one of the oldest deacons of the church, made the presentation to Mr. Howells, on behalf of the church, of a wallet of Treasury notes. Mr. Howells suitably responded. Mr. Lewis Davies, another of the oldest deacons, presented Mr. Howells with a framed photograph of himself. Mrs. Howells was also presented with a photograph on behalf of the church by Mrs. Harris. Both Mr. Howells and Mrs Howells responded. Addresses were delivered by Rev. Iorwerth Jones (Beth- ania), Rev. J. M. Lewis (Tabernacle), Rev. Robert Allen, Rev. J. T. Rees (Saron), and Mr. John Roderick. Musical items were contributed as followsSelection, Salem party; recitation, Miss Prudence Edwards; solo, Mr. Gladstone Howells; solo, Mrs. C. A. Davies; recitation, Mr Thomas Morris; solo, Mr. Willie Jenkins. School Managers.—The monthly meeting of Maesteg Group of School Managers was held on Friday afternoon at the Council Offices, when there were present: Mr. T. E. Hopkins, J. P. (in the chair), Messrs. Thomas Lewis, J.P., J. Evans, C.C., Rev Iorwerth Jones, C.C. Rev. D. C. Howells, Mr W G. Roberts, Mr. J. Roder- ick, Rev. J. T. Parry, Mrs. David, Mr. J. Hughes, Alderman E. E. Davies, Mr. Alfred Griffiths, with the primary inspector (Mr. T. Powell), and the deputy clerk (Mr. G. Ferrier Williams.—The attendance officer (Mr. John Evans) submitted his list of irregular attend- ants at school. It was resolved that the whole list be allowed to stand over for a month.—The Chairman advised the attendance officers in the meantime to issue warnings to the children.— The Clerk read a' list of applications for exemp- tion from school attendance from the parents of children who, for various reasons, desired the children to leave school before they were legally entitled to. Before dealing with these applications, Mr. T. Powell, the inspector, asked the Managers to consider the applications from the standpoint of the welfare of the child- ren, and not the temporary pecuniary gain of the parents.—Only one application was granted,, the Managers vouching for the suitability of the occupation. Nantyffyllon Golden Wedding.—Mr. and Mr& W. Watkins, of Nantyffyllon, who celebrated their golden wedding on Friday, were married at Llangynwyd Church on December 21st, 1867, by Rev. John Davies, B.A. Mr. Watkins, who was born at Llanharan, has been a deacon at Carmel Church for many years under Rev. W. Morgan and Rev. W. R. Bowen. He was one of the founders of Ebenezer, Garth, wnen that cause was initiated at the house of Mr. W. Davies. Later he lived at Pontardawe, where he was one of the founders of Tabernacle,, and. where also he was the first superintendent of the Sunday School. He served for over 24 years uiiqer the late Mr. David Grev, Llwy- darth, and at the Caerleon Tin Workal Whilst residing at Caerleon he once more founded a.. Welsh cause, under the Rev. D. Williams, D.D.. of Newport. His only surviving brother is Mr: Jacob Watkins, of Brynna. Mrs. Watkins, whe is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Rees, of; Alma Road, Maesteg, is a sister of Mr. Dawid. Rees, of Maesteg and Nantyffyllon. One of her brothers is Rev. William Rees, the Australian;, preacher and lecturer. Her sister is Mrs. T. K.. Davies, mother of Mr. T. K. Davies, solicitor of Maesteg. Mr. and Mrs. Watkins have six child- ren and 18 grand-children. Glamorgan Volunteer Regiment Maesteg, Platoon.tile new miniature rifle range for Maesteg Platoon was opened on the 12th inst. by Mr. T. E. Hopkins, J.P., the Military represen- tative of the district and an old Volunteer, who. with his first shot, scored a "bull." A match between the members of the Maesteg and Bryn- garw Platoons was afterwards shot off, the N-. sult being a win for Maesteg. The scores were as follows Maesteg C.S.M. Stokos, -14; Corpl. Brockington, 47; Sergt. Powell, 47; Pte. W. Davies, 48; Pte. B. O. Davies, 45; Pte. George Owen, 46; Sergt. J. J. Martyn, 48. Total, 325. Bryngarw: Q.M.S. J. Allen, 47; Pte. TanDer, 38; Pte. Lewis, 41; Sergt. Hayes, 44; Pte. Boucher, 47; Pte. Morgan, 48; Cpl. Jay, 45— total, 310. A very successful smoking concert was afterwards held, with Mr. T. E. Hopkins, in the chair. Among those present were: Capt. J. Lloyd (Adjutant, 4th Batt., Glam. Volunteer Regiment), Lieut. Brown, Welsh Regirownt; Lieut. S. G. McClenaghan, Durham Light In- fantry; and Lieut. J. A. Boucher Commander of the local Platcon. An excellent musical pro- gramme was arranged by the N.C.O.'s and men, and the general opinion was that the talent dis- played was exceptional and quite in keeping with the traditions of Maesteg. The proceed- ings opened with the singing of "Gcd save the King," and the company was then addressed by the Chairman, who, in the course of his re- marks, pointed out the necessity of every man; up to the age of GO doing something to help win the war, especially by joining the Volunteer Re- giment. Captain Lloyd also addressed the meet- ing, and thanked the chairman for his support of the volunteer movement. He made a stir- ring appeal to all men to take up the Volunteer Training course, and so be in a position to repel an invasion of our shroes, which was not impos- sible, as has been stated by Lord French mor« I than once. Performance of The Messiah."—On Christ- mas night the Nantyffyllon Harmonic Society (under the conductorship of Mr. W. J. Wat- kins) gave a good rendering of The Messiah," at the Maesteg Town Hall, in aid of the Cottage' Hospital. The choir, numbering 180 voices., I were assisted by an orchestra (under the conduc- I torship of Mr. Goruer Jones, Bridgend). Miss- Ceinwen Davies (Maesteg) presided at the piano- fote, and Mr. W. J. Richards (Nantyffyllon) at the organ. The artistes were:—Soprano, Miss- Lily Clatvvortiiy, Cardiff; contralto, Miss, Gwladys Arthur, Newbridge; tenor, Mr. David J. Davies, Nantyffyllon; bass, Mr. Glanville Davies, Maesteg. The committee was presided over by Mr. John Price; treasurer, Mr. David S. Jones; secretary and organiser, Mr. David Powell. Councillor Jenkin Jones, M.E., pre- sided, and in his opening remarks paid a high tribute to the efforts of the committee, the con- ductor, and the choir. On ascending the plat- form, the conductor (Mr. W. J. Watkins) had a splendid reception. The oratorio opened with an orchestral overture, after which the tenor led off with a recit, Comfort ye, comfort ye My people," and the tenor solo, "Every valley shall be exalted," followed. The singer fully maintained his reputation, and delighted the. audience with his good voice. The chorus, "And the Glory of the Lord," was majestically ren- dered. Mr. Glanville Davies was really magni- ficent in the rendering of the solo, "But who may abided" and his description of the words, "For He is like a refiner's fire" was thrilling.. The chorus, "For unto us a Child is born," was. powerfully rendered. The soprano was heard to advantage in her rendering of the solo, "Re- joice greatly, 0 daughter of Zion," and the con- tralto favourably impressed the audience with "He shall feed His flock like a shepherd." The chorus, "His yoke is easy," was exceptionally good, and completed Part 1. The second part commenced with a chorus, "Behold the Lamb t)f God." Then followed the contralto solo, "He was despised." The chorus, "All we like sheep have gone astray," deserved special mention, especially the soprano part. The chorus, "Lift up your heads- was beautifully given. The tenor and bass did exceedingly well in some of the passegaes of the chorus, The sound is- gone out into all lands." Mr. Glanville Davies- sang, "Why do the Nations?" in excellent voice. Mr. D., J. Davies, the tenor, was at his best in. the solo, Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron." The "Hallelujah Chorus," by the choir, was delightfully rendered. The orches- tra was prominent in this chorus, especially when the choir powerfully sang "King of kings and Lord of lords." This beautiful chorus brought the second part to a close. The Chairman, during a short interval, com pli- mented the choir upon their dignified perform- ance. Part 3 was then proceeded with, but, owing to the lateness of the hour, it was deemed advisable to pass over a number of items on the programme. The winding-up chorus, "Worthy is the Lamb," and "Amen" were speedily reached, and the magnificent rendering of this chorus crowned the performance with unabated success.

CAERAU. Three Soldier Brothers.—Of the three sons of Mr. David Bowen, 10 Margam Street, Caerau, late of Tylorstown, one has been killed and two are lying wounded in hospital. Corporal Rees- Bowen, Royal Field Artillery, was killed at Y pres on November 6th after two years' service in France. He enlisted in November, 1914, when employed as a haulier at Coegnant Col- liery. He was well known on the football field as the Maesteg wing three-quarter. His widow resides at 98 High Street, Nantyffyllon. Sergt.. Morgan Bowen, Welsh Regiment, enlisted three years ago at the age of 17. After two years in France he is now in hospital wounded in the forehead. Lance-Corporal Robert Bowen, of the same battalion of the Welsh Regiment, also enlisted three years ago when only 15 years of age. He has been wounded for the second time. Both brothers were formerly employed at the- Caerau Colliery.

PENYFAI. Prize Drawing for William Sminey, of Penyr- fai, Postponed to January 21st.-Isaac John, Secretary. 1852 -eor- 1 -== PRINTED AND PDBLISBXD BY TO CENTRAL GLAMOSSM PRINTING AND PUBLISHIN-9 COMPANY, LTD., AN THH GLAMORGAN GAZETTH" OFFICES, QCIM» STREET, BRIDGEND, GLAMORGAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 28th, 1917.