Rushden Echo, 1^st March 1901

Railway Employees at Supper

The staff at Higham Ferrers Midland Station had a most enjoyable gathering on Monday night, Mr. E. Jones (stationmaster) and Mr. F. Sugars (chief clerk) being the promoters. About fifty gentlemen sat down to an excellent dinner provided by Mr. and Mrs. Affleck at the Green Dragon Hotel. The Mayor (Mr. T. Patenall) presided, supported by Mr. Henry Pitt, of Rushden, and Mr. F. Sugars and among those present were Messrs. C. W. Perkins, F. Brazier, W. N. Roberts, A. Lovell, W. Gadsby, H. Gadsby, R. Saxby, G. Shortland (Irthlingborough), and Horne and Bond (representatives of the L. and N. W. Company). After supper, the toast of "The King and Royal Family" was drunk enthusiastically, and God save the King was heartily sung.—The Chairman referred to the absence, through illness, of Mr. Jones and said they all sincerely hoped Mr. Jones would soon be restored to his usual health and strength. The Chairman then read a letter from Mr. Owen Parker, who was not able to be present on account of indisposition. His absence was much regretted.—Songs were then given by Messrs, C. W. Perkins. F. Brazier (encored), Affleck, F. G. Sugars, Warner, and Eads; a recitation by Mr. Sugars; and a violin solo by Mr. T. Baxter. —Mr. Pitt then proposed the toast of "The host and hostess," and Mr. Affleck responded.— Mr.  Perkins then proposed "The toast of Midland Rail way," and spoke in very high terms of the splendid way the Midland Railway performed their duties, referring more especially to the Rushden and Higham Ferrers branch. The energetic stationmasters (Mr. Pitt and Mr. Jones) were both very courteous and obliging.—Mr. Pitt suitably replied.—Mr. Sugars proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the chairman (Mr. Patenall) for his kindness in taking the chair, and also to Mr. Jolley, who had so efficiently presided at the piano, coupling with it a hearty vote of thanks to those gentlemen who had assisted them in the programme.—The singing of the National Anthem concluded the proceedings.