Probably the oldest inhabitant of Rushden, Mr. Alfred Smith, of “North Fields," Kimbolton-road, passed away at his home on Saturday after a short illness at the great age of 95.

Mr. Smith, who was born at Higham Ferrers and lived in the district all his life, was able to recall the time when Rushden had only one street and Higham was the larger of the two places. He was born in the High-street near the Market Square and later moved to the Higham Lodge farm, where he carried on as a farmer until he transferred to North Fields, a much smaller farm, about 58 years ago. He celebrated his diamond wedding about 11 years ago, three years before the death of his wife. There are three daughters left.

The funeral took place at Higham Ferrers on Tuesday, the service at the Parish Church being conducted by the Rev. Philip Kirk (Vicar). The principal mourners were Mrs. L. Barrs and Mrs. E. Neal (daughters), Mrs. F. Knight and Mr. W. W. Smith (daughter and brother), Mr. R. W. Kilsby and Mrs. J. Winter (grandchildren), Mr. G. Neal and Mr. F. Knight (grandson and son-in-law), Mrs. W. W. Smith and Mr. J. Smith (sister-in-law and nephew), Mrs. J. Smith and Mrs. G. Cooper (nieces).

Mr. Walter Mitchell and Mr. Alan Knight (grandsons) were unable to attend.

Mr. L. Clark made the funeral arrangements.