Higham Ferrers has lost a greatly esteemed resident in the death, which took place early on Sunday morning, of Mr. James Middleton, aged 69, of 30 High-street. Mr. Middleton had been a sufferer for a number of years from asthma, and at the end there were complications.

A native of Rushden, Mr. Middleton had lived in Higham Ferrers for about 55 years, and for some 45 years of that time he had a grocery business in High-street. He was a life-long member of the Oddfellows Friendly Society. He was a great democrat and frequently urged his fellows to exercise their right to vote. He himself voted at the recent municipal election, that being his last day out of doors. He was a staunch Liberal, and for some time he was treasurer of the Liberal Association. For some years past he was not able to attend services, but formerly he frequently attended the Wesleyan Church. Though not a playing member of the Higham Ferrers Football Club, Mr. Middleton was one of the keenest supporters.

Mr. Middleton was one of the original members of the Higham Co-operative Boot Productive Society, and it was in a shop at the back of his house that the first pair of samples was made for the society. He worked at the factory in Kimbolton-road until ill-health compelled him to give up.

One son, Mr. W. S. Middleton, and one daughter, Mrs. Pashler, are bereaved. There are also three brothers, Messrs. Alfred, Oliver, and Septimus Middleton.

The Funeral

took place on Wednesday, the Rev. Bernard J. Harris, of Rushden, officiating in the absence through indisposition of the Rev. G. C. Gould. A service was held in the Wesleyan Church, followed by interment at the cemetery.
[a list of mourners and wreaths follows]