Wellingborough News, 23rd February 1884, transcribed by Kay Collins

OLD BAPTIST MEETING—A most enthusiastic meeting was held at the Old Baptist Chapel on Tuesday, 12th inst. For some time it has been customary for the teachers of the Sunday school to provide an annual free tea and entertainment for the parents of the children. So highly have the parents appreciated the kindness that they resolved a short time since to acknowledge it in a similar way. Tuesday's substantial tea and interesting entertainment were the result of that resolution. Both school-rooms were required for those who attended the tea, and a large number of teachers, parents, singers, scholars, and friends afterwards assembled in the chapel. An appropriate address was given by the pastor (Rev. W. A. Davis), on the necessity and advantages of "provoking one another to love and good-works" in home and church life. Mr. George Wilmott spoke concerning elements of efficiency in Sunday school work. Mr. J. Darnell expressed the gratitude of the parents for the interest taken in, their children, and dwelt upon the ennobling influence of Christianity upon individuals and communities. Mr. Clark alluded to the blighting effect of scepticism on young minds, and urged the parents to co-operate with the teachers in training the children for God. Mr. Harris (the worthy superintendent), in a characteristically fervent and faithful address, presented the claims of the Sunday school, pressed upon the parents the need of home discipline, and pleaded for better school accommodation. Mr. Crick, Mr. Collins, and Mr. Elliott also spoke a few wise words. Mr. Wilmott at the close of his speech proposed "That the parents provide an annual tea and entertainment for the teachers," which was seconded by Mr. Edwin Knight, and enthusiastically carried. The singing, led by Mr. Farey, was effectively rendered and much appreciated. Recitations were also given by Miss Prudence Darnell and Miss L. Darnell. It was a matter of gratification to many that the meeting did not close before Mr. Samuel Knight had spoken a few words, in which he stated that for nearly 70 years he had been connected with the school. An interesting review of his own work as superintendent brought to a close a very pleasurable and profitable meeting.