Newspaper Reports

Northampton Mercury 11 August 1827

CASTLETHORPE BRIDGE.

NOTICE is hereby given, That PLANS and SPECIFICATIONS for repairing the BRIDGE at CASTLETHORPE, in the County of Buckingham, may seen at the Office of Mr. TINDAL, in Aylesbury, and also Application to Mr. Provis, Architect, at Sherrington, near Newport Pagnell. And any Person desirous of CONTRACTING for REPAIRING the said BRIDGE, in the Manner and upon the Terms mentioned in such Specification, is requested to attend, and deliver a Tender in Writing, to Meeting Committee of Justices of the Peace acting in and the said County, which will be holden at the Swan Inn, in Newport Pagnell, on Wednesday the 22d Day of August instant, at Twelve o'Clock Noon.

The Party contracting will be required to give two Sureties for the due Performance of his Contract, is particularly stated in the Specification, and to set forth in his Tender the Names and Descriptions such Sureties.

The Committee do not undertake to accept the lowest Tender, but reserve to themselves the Right fixing upon such, as under all Circumstances, they shall deem most eligible.

Clerk of the Peace's Office, Aylesbury, 9th Ang. 1827.


Northampton Mercury 20 October 1893

TOWCESTER HIGHWAY BOARD

Attention was called to the bad state of the arches of the bridges of Castlethorpe and it was decided to make the necessary repairs


The Bucks Standard 09 February 1895

PARISH COUNCIL MEETING. At a meeting of the Council, held on Monday, the 4th inst., there were present Councillors John Onley (chairman), John Luing (vice-chairman), C. Whiting, T. Rainbow, and Thomas Osborne, clerk The minutes of the last meeting were read and signed. The Retuning Officer’s account for the election was considered, showing a total of £10 7s. 9d. Mr. J. Luing moved “That as the amount appeared to be excessive, the clerk be instructed to write to the Clerk of the County Council thereon,” Mr. D. Cowley seconded, and the motion was carried unanimously. The advisability of taking over the footpaths was brought forward by the Chairman, and thoroughly discussed. Eventually, on the proposition of Mr. John Luing, seconded by Mr. D. Cowley, it was agreed to take over all the footpaths in the parish. On the proposition of Mr. T. Rainbow, seconded by Mr. J. Luing, the clerk was instructed to write to Lord Carrington’s agent, J. C. Jonas, Esq. asking him to have the notice boards taken down by the side of footpath leading from Cosgrove to the bottom of the village. On the proposition of Mr. T. Rainbow, seconded by Mr. D. Cowley, it was decided to ask the Churchwardens to hand over to the Council all books and documents relating to the civil charities.


Northampton Mercury 25 October 1895

NEWPORT PAGNELL. Rural District Council, Wednesday.—Present: Mr J. R. Wilmer and 28 other Councillors. The tenders for sewerage works at Sherington and Castlethorpe were opened. Those of Mr. Jakeman were accepted for both places, the amount being Sherington £57 12s. 9d. and Castlethorpe £14 16s.


The Bucks Standard 14 March 1896

PARISH MEETING. The Parish Meeting for the election of parish Councillors was held in the Board School on Monday, the 9th inst., at 7.30 p.m. The chairman of the Council, Mr. J. Onley, in opening the proceedings called upon the clerk, Mr. T. Osborn, to read the minutes of the last Parish Meeting, after which he briefly reviewed the work of the Council during the term of office. He said that the Council was still in its infancy as there was difficulty in finding out the extent of their powers. They had attempted more than they had actually accomplished, for the simple reason that other interests were involved, which prevented smooth sailing. He claimed credit to the Council for carefully handling the ratepayers money. There had been a few improvements brought about through their labours, and he hoped as time went on there would be more useful work done for the village. He then invited those who had nomination papers to hand them in, and explained that as he was a candidate it was his duty to vacate the chair in favour of one whom the meeting might elect to continue the conduct of business. Mr. Geo. Rainbow therefore proposed, and Mr. S. Baugh seconded, that Mr. Jos. Pike, D.C., take the chair, this was carried nem cen. Nomination papers were then carefully scrutinized, and arranged alphabetically by the Chairman and pronounced to be valid. The names of the candidates were then read out, together with the names of the proposers and seconders, after which a show of hands were taken for each one in order as they had been given in. The result of the show of hands was as follows: Mr. Geo. Cook Nichols (7), Mr. John Luing (14), Mr. D. Cowley (13), Mr. C. Whiting (15), Mr. John Onley (16), Mr. Thos. Rainbow (16). As there were 6 candidates nominated and only 5 persons to be elected, the first named gentleman therefore withdrew. In doing so he stated that he had been nominated without his consent. He had no wish to put the parish to the expense of a poll as he was satisfied with the work of the Council, especially with the financial part. He believed they were actuated by good motives and wished them success in the future. The action of Mr. Nichols in withdrawing was commended by all present. J. Luing, W. Cowley, C. Whiting, J. Onley, T. Rainbow, were declared by the Chairman to be duly elected. There is therefore no change in the composition of the Council, as the above gentlemen have all been re-elected. A vote of thanks to Mr. Pike for presiding proposed by Mr. Geo. Nichols, seconded by J. Harris, and carried with acclamation.


The Bucks Standard 04 April 1896

PARISH MEETING. The annual parish meeting was held in the Board School on Tuesday, the 31st ult. Mr. John Onley, chairman of council, taking the chair. The minutes of the last meeting were passed as read upon the proposal of Mr. Geo. Rainbow, seconded by Mr. S. Baugh. The charities account was laid upon the table by Mr. Jos. Pike, who acted as hon. secretary to the Feoffees. Everything appeared to give the greatest satisfaction, and Mr. Pike was accorded a hearty vote of thanks for the manner in which he had discharged his duties. A vote of thanks to the chairman, proposed by Mr. Pain closed the proceedings.


The Bucks Standard 04 April 1896

PARISH MEETING. The annual parish meeting was held in the Board School on Tuesday, the 31st ult. Mr. John Onley, chairman of council, taking the chair. The minutes of the last meeting were passed as read upon the proposal of Mr. Geo. Rainbow, seconded by Mr. S. Baugh. The charities account was laid upon the table by Mr. Jos. Pike, who acted as hon. secretary to the Feoffees. Everything appeared to give the greatest satisfaction, and Mr. Pike was accorded a hearty vote of thanks for the manner in which he had discharged his duties. A vote of thanks to the chairman, proposed by Mr. Pain closed the proceedings.


The Bucks Standard 25 April 1896

PARISH COUNCIL. The annual meeting of this Council was held in the Board School on Thursday, the 16th inst., when the following gentlemen were present: Messrs. John Onley, John Luing, Thos. Rainbow, David Cowley, and Thos. Osborne, clerk. The usual declaration accepting office was made and signed, after which the Council proceeded to the election of officers for the ensuing year. Mr. D. Cowley proposed, and Mr. T. Rainbow seconded, that Mr. John Onley be re-elected chairman. Mr. Onley said he would rather someone else act in that capacity, for, in his opinion, the office of chairman ought to be held, in turn, by all members of the Council. Mr. Luing suggested an outsider, the suggestion, however, resolved but little favour. Mr. Onley was therefore persuaded to take the responsibilities of the chair for another year. In doing so, he thanked the Council for a renewal of their confidence, and said no effort should be spared on his part in the discharge of his duty. Mr. Luing was unanimously re-elected vice-chairman. Upon the proposal of the Chairman, seconded by Mr. T. Rainbow, Mr. Luing, and Mr. George E. Nichols were re-elected overseers. Mr. John Luing proposed, and Mr. D. Cowley seconded, “That as Mr. Whiting is not present, he be allowed, to sign the declaration form at the next meeting of Council.” Mr. J. Luing brought forward the advisability of the Council joining the Parish and District Councils Association. He explained that for an annual subscription of one guinea they would be entitled to three copies of the parish Council Journal monthly, as well as advise upon any legal or general matters. He therefore proposed, and Mr. T. Rainbow seconded, “That this Council subscribe the sum of one guinea for copies of the ‘Parish Council Journal’ for one year, for the use of members and officers of the Council. The Clerk was directed to write Lord Carrington’s agent, J. C. Jonas, Esq. asking him what progress if any, had been made towards obtaining more land for allotments. In reply to this letter Mr. Jonas informs the Clerk that the land be let at Michaelmas, when he has arranged for it to be given up. A discussion arose upon the condition of the highways in the parish, and, eventually the Chairman proposed “That it is desirable that the control and maintenance of the parish Highways should be given to the parish Council.” Mr. Luing seconded, and it was carried.


The Bucks Standard 11 July 1896

PARISH COUNCIL. A meeting of this Council was held on Monday last, July 6, when there were present, Messrs. J. Olney (chairman), J. Luing (vice-chairman), C. Whiting, D. Cowley, T. Rainbow, and T. Osborne (clerk). The minutes of the last meeting were passed as read. A circular was received from Captain Williams, asking what course of technical instruction they proposed for the forthcoming session 1896-7. The Council were in favour of taking carpentering and ambulance classes but as the total amount to be spent was not to exceed £10, they decided in favour of carpentry upon the proposal of Mr. Whiting, seconded by Mr. D. Cowley. The new scheme for administration of the Poor’s Allotment and Lady Tyrril’s Charity gives the Council power to elect four feoffees on the Board. Messrs. J. Luing, J. Olney, D. Cowley, and T. Rainbow, were therefore elected to attend the next meeting of the ffeoffes. The clerk was directed to send their names to Mr. Pike (secretary). At the last meeting of the Council Mr. Onley and Mr. Luing were deputed to wait upon Mrs. Amos and lay before her the Council’s proposal for diverting the footpath leading to Cosgrove Mill through the meadows, in the occupancy of Mrs. Amos. They found her quite agreeable to the proposed change, and she thought it might be done with advantage to herself and to the public. The matter stands adjourned pending the decision of the Cosgrove Parish Council. Mr. Olney and Mr. Rainbow were asked to see Mr. Grove in reference to a stile dividing one of his fields and Mr. Whiting’s. It is very much out of repair, and requires prompt attention.


Northampton Mercury 19 March 1897

CASTLETHORPE. The Parish Meeting was held Thursday. Mr. J. Olney in the chair. The following were elected Councillors for the ensuing year, a poll being avoided: Messrs. S. Baugh, T. Panter, T. Rainbow, J. Luing, and C. Whiting.


The Bucks Standard 19 March 1898

PARISH MEETING. This meeting was held on Monday evening, March 14, with Mr. J. Luing in the chair. All the old Councillors were present. Mr. J. Luing retired, and the other four members, Messrs. S. Baugh, T. Rainbow, T. Panter and C. Whiting were re-nominated with Mr. E. Richardson and Mr. J. Olney. Mr. Olney withdrew, and thus an election was avoided.


Northampton Mercury 29 March 1901

CASTLETHORPE.—Parish Council Election (five seats).—Charles Whiting. 55; James Pain, 51; Arthur Masterman, 50; John Luing, 47; Edward Richardson, 39 (elected); John Olney, jun., 37; Samuel Baugh 9.


The Wolverton Express 19 June 1901

CASTLETHORPE DRAINAGE


The plans for the proposed extention of the drainage at Castlethorpe were laid before the Council.
Mr. Richardson, who represents Castlethorpe, said that the Parish Council approved of the plans, and moved that they should be passed by the Rural District Council. Mr. Inwood seconded the proposition which was carried.


The Wolverton Express 11 March 1904

Mr. S. H. Wheeldon was voted to the chair, and the following candidates were declared elected Councillors: Mr. J. Luing, Mr. A. Masterman, Mr. G. C. Nicholls, Mr. H. Wallace, and Mr. C. Whiting. After the election a parish meeting was held, under the chairmanship of Mr. C. Whiting, and several suggestions were made by the parishioners present. The Council were asked to and arrange for shelter swings, etc. to be erected and thus make the Recreation Ground an attraction to the children, and keep them out of the streets. The lighting of the village was also discussed, and the Council were asked to lay a scheme before the parishioners. The Fire Brigade and bathing-place were also subjects discussed, and the Councillors promised to do what they could to meet the wishes of the meeting.


Northampton Mercury 07 July 1905

RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL

The Sanitary Committee reported that a letter had been received from Mr. E. T. Worley, solicitor for Mr. W. J. Crisp, with reference to the proposal to erect eight cottages on certain land at Castlethorpe, and to the question of a new street. The committee recommended that the matter be referred to counsel for opinion thereon.—The Surveyor reported that Messrs. J. Carter Jonas had not complied with notices respecting the insufficient drainage at Castlethorpe. The committee recommended that the Surveyor empowered to have the necessary works executed forthwith, and that the cost be recovered from Messrs. J. Carter Jonas.


Northampton Mercury 01 September 1905

NEWPORT RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL,

Castlethorpe.—The committee recommended that, subject to the opinion of the Clerk, proceedings be taken against Mr. Crisp tor allowing the houses to be occupied without having first obtained a certificate that there is available supply of wholesome water.


The Wolverton Express 08 March 1907

PARISH COUNCIL ELECTIONS

A meeting wash held in the Council Schools on Monday, to elect five Councillors and the result was announced as follows: Mr. Luing 42, Mr. G. Nicholls 31, Mr. D. Cowley 27, Mr. Mapley 26, Mr. C. Whiting 21, Mr. Algar 13, Mr. Coopland 13, Mr. Wynne 10.
On behalf of the three defeated candidates a poll has been demanded, although it was specially announced that such an election would mean increase of rates to the tune of £8 or £10.
Mr. Wheeldon, on behalf of the parishioners, expressed regret that the retiring Chairman of the Council (Mr. Masterman) had decided not to be re-nominated for the Council. The speaker said it would be very difficult to find a more impartial gentleman, and the village could ill afford to be spared, and it was hoped that Mr. Masterman’s retirement would not be permanent.
Mr. Baugh seconded, and Mr. Richardson (Rural District Councillor) supported the proposition, which was carried unanimously.
Mr. Masterman, in acknowledging the vote, pointed out that the work of the parish Council had considerably increased since he first became a member, and he felt that he would like to retire for a space of time. He was exceedingly pleased to find hid services had met with the approval of all the parishioners, and thanked the for the proposition.


Northampton Mercury 10 February 1910

CASTLETHORPE'S FOOTPATHS.

To the Editor of “Northampton Mercury”
Sir,—Kindly allow me the hospitality of your correspondence column for the purpose of calling attention of the proper authorities to the abominable condition of two places the footpath leading from Castlethorpe Mill to Yardley Gobion. The first place I complain of is near the second stile from the mill; the stile is minus tread, like many others in most parishes. In passing I would like to observe that these specimens public convenience ought have been consigned to limbo long ago relics of barbarous On  the Yardley of the stile the river has worn away the embankment, and the water runs down slight declivity into a ditch, the stream narrows as it passes along, and has made a passage about four feet wide. On both sides of this overflow there are a few stones lying roughly and at all angles. Foot passengers when crossing this extremely place have to use sound judgment, especially when springing over the water passage, in order to preserve their equilibrium. The second place near the wooden bridge, which spans the river about 50 yards further on where there is another overflow of water caused through the embankment giving way. At this juncture it would be absolutely impassable were it not for an old gate some thoughtful person had placed there to step on. Such is the condition of this footpath over which his Majesty's subjects have a common right to pass, and some have, from the force of circumstances, to use it regularly morning and night. How accidents have been averted is to mystery. I do not think possible for a stranger to go along the path in the dark without meeting with a mishap. The question now arises upon whom rests the responsibility of keeping footpaths in repair. Is it the landowner, the farmer, as tenants of the land, or the Parish Council? I think the latter, although I don't absolve the owners from blame in this case, for whoever owns the adjacent land owns as far as the middle of the stream. If the embankment of the stream gives way it appears me, therefore, the duty of the owner to make good, in default thereof it is presumably the duty the Council to do the work in the interests of the public. The authors of the Local Government Act conferred upon Parish Councils the power to deal with such matters as these. If they are not prepared to use the power thus given, then the sooner we revert to the old system of electing Parish officials by the vestry the better. This is a bona-fide case to  bring before the attention of the Local Government Board, and in case of further neglect I would strongly advise doing so.—Yours, etc.. PRO BONO PUBLICO.


The Bucks Standard 03 April 1922

RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL ELECTIONS

The election of a representative for Castlethorpe on the Newport Pagnell Rural District Council took place on Monday march 29. Mr. Edward Richardson, the retiring member, sought re-election, and Mr. Joseph Whiting, jun., a local farmer, was his opponent. Polling took place between the hours of 12 (mid-day) and 8 o’clock, Mr. Sidney A. Nicholson acting as presiding officer. The poll was a fairly heavy one and resulted as follows:-

Richardson, Edward 88

Whiting, Joseph E. 79


The Bucks Standard 02 December 1922

PARISH COUNCIL. A meeting of this council was held on Monday. All members were present. After the minutes of the last meeting had been passed and signed, the chairman (Mr. T. Osborne, J.P.) said he should like to take the opportunity of complimenting Miss Rainbow upon her appointment as clerk to the Council. The appointment, as they were all aware, created more than s local interest, for, through the medium of the Press and the novelty of the appointment, it gained quite a wide publicity. For his own part, he failed to see there was anything unseemly or irregular in giving the position to a lady. It was an acknowledged fact that ladies were becoming in large numbers qualified to occupy positions of trust and responsibility in all departments. In reference to this appointment, a false statement had been made and circulated in the village by persons who ought to have known better. Apparently it was made through ignorance, or from a vindictive and uncharitable motive. It was said that the appointment was unsuitable for a lady, inasmuch as she would have to go roaming about the fields in the parish to find out if there were any gates and stiles needing repair, etc. What a ludicrous and restricted idea! The duties of the clerk were purely clerical, and meant responsibility for keeping a correct record of the Council’s transactions, financial and otherwise, and, judging fro her early education and previous experience, Miss Rainbow was fully competent to carry out these duties satisfactorily. A communication was received from the Education Authority, Aylesbury, relative to the composition of the local Education Committee. The appointments were made as desired, and the clerk was instructed to reply. Other business of a minor nature was dealt with.


The Bucks Standard 12 May 1923

Parish Council. A meeting of the Castlethorpe Parish Council was held in the Council Schools on Monday last. There were present: Mr. T. Osborne, J.P. (chairman), Mr. A. Bavington, Mr. W. Clarke, Mr. W. Markham, and the clerk (Miss M. Rainbow). A letter was read from Mr. H. F. Dolling tendering his resignation from the Council, and Mr. A. Clarke was unanimously appointed to fill the vacancy. The Clerk read a letter received from the Postmaster, Stony Stratford, re affording postmen working in the district a weekly half-holiday on Saturdays. It was decided to agree to the proposal.


The Bucks Standard 01 December 1923

Parish Council. On Monday last, Nov 26th, a meeting of the parish Council was held in the Council Schools. Members present: Mr. T. Osborne, J.P. (chairman), Mr. J. E. Whiting (vice-chairman) Mr. W. T. Clarke, Mr. A. Clarke, Mr. W. Markham, and Miss E. M. Rainbow (clerk). Permission was granted to the ex-Service Men’s Association to fix a lamp on the Carrington Hall. It was decided to have the invalid’s chair, that had recently been given to the parish, repaired, and an estimate which was read by the chairman was accepted. A discussion took place respecting the entrance to the Carrington Hall, and the members agreed to have the path and gate repaired, and also that the furniture in the Hall should be repaired also, the supervision of the work to be left to the chairman. A letter from the Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, Aylesbury, soliciting contributions, was read. As Northampton is the local hospital for the parish the members decided not to launch a contributory scheme as suggested in the correspondence.


Northampton Mercury 21 March 1924

RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL

The Sanitary Committee approval for two cottages at Castlethorpe for Messrs. A. J. Clarke and A. E. Meacham.


The Bucks Standard 29 March 1924

AN UNPUBLISHED NOTICE

Castlethorpe Parish Meeting

A HEATED DEBATE

Parish Council Asked to Cater for Tennis and Bowls.

The short fifty-five minutes occupied in the transaction of the business of the annual Parish Meeting for Castlethorpe on Tuesday evening were crowded with incidents and at times the proceedings took on a very lively character. Mr. T. Osborne J.P., presided and the members of the Parish Council present were: Messrs. Arthur Clarke, Arthur Bavington, Wm. Markham, Wm. Clarke, J. E. Whiting, and Miss Rainbow (clerk). There was a large attendance of parishioners.

The Chairman said that annual parish meeting was arranged to give them an opportunity of meeting together and conferring with each other on matters affecting the best interests of the village. Mr. Osborne said there had been no outstanding feature connected with the business of the Parish Council during the past year. He attributed that to the very favorable position they occupied. They had not been obliged so far to ask for the approval of the parishioners for putting into operation any of the legislative enactments under the Local Government Act the Library, Burial, Lighting and Allotment Acts. Through the generosity and consideration of the Marquis of Lincolnshire they were well supplied with allotments and it was pleasing to observe that those allotments were being managed efficiently by the Allotment Association. In reference to lighting the council had thought from time to time of convening a meeting to discuss the advisability of providing a few lamps for the village. But no doubt they were aware that Northampton Electric Light Company proposed extending their own area to Stony Stratford and Wolverton, and as the intermediate villages might be included in the scheme they thought to use an Asquithian slogan it would be well to “wait and see” and await further developments. So far as the means at their disposal allowed the Council had done the necessary work. Last year they spent a sum of money on necessary work at the Carrington Hall. The details of this were fully explained at the last annual meeting; objections to this item of expenditure were made before the auditor at the subsequent audit by an aggrieved person who was present at the parish meeting but chose to remain silent and make no complaint at that time. It was safe therefore to infer that the person who made the objection was desirous of getting the amount surcharges or disallowed. There was no need for anyone to analyse an action of that kind, suffice it to say that it turned out abortive, for no item was surcharged or disallowed. Mr. Osborne said during the 35 years he had been closely associated with parochial work no one had before attempted to upset the administrative work of their elected representatives. He frankly admitted that every ratepayer and property owner had a right to appear before the auditor and lodge or make complaints but unless they had a bona fide case of wasteful or illegal expenditure their objection would turn out as this one – a ludicrous fiasco. The chairman went on to refer to the footpath improvement, a much needed work which had been made possible through work which had been made possible through the permission of Mr. Gobey whom he would particularly like to thank. He was quite sure that those who had the occasion to use the footpath would appreciate the improvement that had been made. Reference was made by the chairman to the invalid’s chair in the village. Mr. Whiting had kindly provided storage for the chair in his coach-house. By direction of the sub-Postmaster at Stony Stratford an alteration had been made in the time of dispatch of letters from Castlethorpe. The Council thought it would put parishioners to a deal of inconvenience, and the Chairman explained the steps that had been taken to get the old arrangements restored, but which had not been attended with the success they had hoped for.
Mr. E. Richardson, addressing the chairman, said he hoped he appreciated Mr. Osborne’s kindness in giving his name as the individual who approached the auditor with regard to the audit of the parish accounts. It was not so much against what was done as neglect to do certain things. He said there was good cause for complaint because the statutory seven days’ notice had not been given. He still maintained that the sum of money spent on the Memorial Hall might have been spent in a better way. He thought the chairman with his 35 years experience would have advised Miss Rainbow as to what she should have done in posting up the notice. Neglect to give notice had rendered her liable to a fine of £5. Mr. Richardson had nothing to say against the improvement to the footpath but the Council might have made a job of it when they were at it. The condition of the path would be worse unless something more was done to it. It was only half a job at present.
The Chairman replying to Mr. Richardson, asked why he had not complained before? It was at the parish meeting that he should have complained.
Mr. Richardson: Certainly not.
The Chairman: It shows the underhanded work that is characteristic of you.
Mr. Lowe (heatedly): No personalities.
The Chairman: I am not talking about personality.
Mr. Lowe: Yes you are. Take him outside and let’s get on with the work of the parish meeting.
At this point there was a sign of brewing trouble. Mr. Lowe rushed to the front of the chairman’s table in an attitude of defiance, and told Mr. Osborne he was not frightened of any man or woman.
There was a brief heated altercation bur the atmosphere quickly cleared, and resuming his seat Mr. Lowe raised a question about the representation of the board of school managers.
Mr. Willison referred to the housing difficulty, and enquired what steps the Parish Council had taken to secure houses. He had to leave his cottage, it appeared, and had nowhere to go.
The Chairman told him the Council had nothing to do with finding accommodation for parishioners. They were not a housing committee.
Mr. Willison: I don’t say you are, but you use your influence.
The Chairman: We are all in sympathy with you and we would do all we can to help you.
Another parishioner asked if there was any likelihood of houses being built in the village.
Mr. J. E. Whiting replied: He took Mr. Willison’s case first. And said he had done all he could privately to get him accommodation. It was mentioned whether it would be possible for him to go into the Carrington School. He didn’t think it would be advisable for Mr. Willison to go there. The sanitary inspector would make a fuss about it and a good many of the parishioners knew that would be so. Turning to the general question, Mr. Whiting said the scheme for building houses in Castlethorpe had been stopped through no fault of the Rural District Council but as a result of the action of the Ministry. There was now no set scheme for the village. If plans were properly prepared and submitted and passed by the Rural District Council a subsidy could be applied for by any private person wishing to build. The subsidy was applied for at nearly every meeting of the Council and in many cases it was granted when the plans conformed to the requirements of the Act. Since people in the parish seemed to think that the land that was to have been built upon in the allotments belonged now to the Rural District Council, he had inquired about that and had been informed that it had never been taken over. The deeds were ready for signature but the grant from the Ministry was stopped. He took it the land still belonged to the Marquis of Lincolnshire.
Mr. Willison: Is it still available.
Mr. Whiting
: If the Council applied to the Marquis of Lincolnshire he would consider selling the land or giving it, but the Council don’t wish to build.
Mr. Richardson: As a member of the committee at the time the promise given to the committee was that at any time the land was required it could be had.
Mr. Whiting: I think you will agree there is no scheme now that the Rural District Council can work upon except the subsidy which is a great help.
Mr. Marsh urged the need of a recreation ground for the parish, and suggested acquiring four or five acres of land where provision could be made for tennis, bowls, cricket and football. They wanted a place, he said, where small and large could take their leisure apart from muscular exercise.
The Chairman said the Parish Council were in sympathy with the suggestion, but it was a question of expense. The last recreation ground was not appreciated and was not used as it ought to have been used.
Mr. Farmer Amos said Mr. Whiting and himself found that all the recreation ground that was necessary for Castlethorpe.
The Chairman: Yes; we are very favourably situated in that way.
Mr. Bert Powell, captain of both the village football and cricket clubs, said they were very grateful to Mr. Whiting and Mr. Amos for their kindness in lending them fields in which to play and making no charge for the privilege. In some villages in the locality cricket and football was out of the question because of the price asked for the ground. He personally wished to thank Mr. Whiting and Mr. Amos for their kindness (applause).
The Chairmen promised that the question should be considered at the next Council meeting.
Other matters of a minor character were discussed, and after the presentation of the charity accounts by Mr. Markham the meeting closed.


The Bucks Standard 19 April 1924

Parish Council. A meeting of the Parish Council was held in the Council School Monday last April 14th when there were present: Messrs. T. Osborne, J.P. (chairman), J. E. Whiting (vice-chairman), Wm. Markham, A. Clarke, A. Bavington, W.T. Clarke, and Miss E. M. Rainbow (clerk). After the minutes of the last meeting had been confirmed, the chairman informed the members that he wished to resign his position. In accepting the resignation with great reluctance, the members proposed a very hearty thanks to Mr. Osborne for his services during the last two years. Mr. J. E. Whiting was appointed chairman for the next twelve months. The clerk presented the accounts, and the cheques were signed for same. Mr. W.T. Clarke and Mr. J. E. Gobbey were appointed Overseers for the year. The question of the need of a recreation ground was discussed and it was decided to let the matter stand over for the present.


The Bucks Standard 03 May 1924

CASTLETHORPE PARISH AFFAIRS

.

To the editor of the Bucks Standard

Sir. Kindly allow me a small space in the columns of your paper to revert back to our annual parish meeting held on the 25th March last. At this meeting a statement was made by one person present to the effect that the “Clerk of the Council was liable to a penalty of five pounds for failure to publish the notice of the audit of the parish council accounts.” I apologies for bringing this question forward again after the lapse of several weeks. My only object in doing so is to state the facts of the case in as few words as possible for the benefit of those who heard the statement made who are still in doubt. As chairman of the meeting some think I ought to have replied at the time, but one doesn’t always do the right thing at the right time. Certainly the temper and mood of one or two individuals was scarcely suitable for reasonable argument. It was chiefly on this account that I refrained. I wish now, however, to state without the slightest ambiguity or compunction that the statement is absolutely devoid of truth. There is no monetary penalty for failure to publish notice of the audit in this case. I challenge the gentleman to prove to the contrary. This is not the first time I have had to expose inaccuries from the same source. I submit that as a public man he ought to be more careful in making assertions without sufficient proof, if not for his own reputation for the sake of others who may regard him as an authority. It is worthy of note that superficiality is nearly always misleading.

Yours Faithfully

THOS. OSBORNE

Castlethorpe, May 1st.


The Bucks Standard 21 March 1925

CASTLETHORPE

PARISH COUNCIL ELECTION.

The triennial meeting for the election of Parish Councillors was held in the Council School on Monday last. As the chairman of the Council, Mr. J. E. Whiting, was seeking re-election, Mr. Masterman presided. The meeting was well attended and it was noticeable that more than usual interest was taken in the proceedings. At the outset it was obvious that some were there with doing all they could to turn the old Council out, but the good sense of majority of the electors defeated the object. The Council is composed of five members. For the seats nine persons were nominated, and the subsequent voting by show of hands resulted in four of the old members being re-elected with Mr. T. Osborne, J.P. in place of Mr. W. T. Clarke, junr. Who did not seek re-election. The votes recorded for the five elected were 53, 46, 46, 45, 45. The four defeated candidates received 39 votes only between them. Mr. E. Richardson, who only secured 7 votes, thereupon initiated a demand for a poll and he had great difficulty in getting four others to support him. It follows therefore that unless the four responsible for the demand do not withdraw before Tuesday next there will be a poll.

The Parish Meeting

Arrangements had been made to hold the Annual Parish Meeting on the same date and subsequent to the first meeting. Mr. Masterman presided. The official statement of the Tyrell Charity Accounts for the 12 months was read by Mr. W. T. Clarke, which showed that £13/14/0 had been given to the poor of Castlethorpe, leaving a balance in hand of £12/18/10. Questions were asked in reference to finding a suitable building for storing the hand bier which had been purchased through the efforts of the Choral Society and presented to the village by them. The Chairman of the Council explained that the Ministry of Health had been communicated with in reference to the legality of expenditure for this purpose. The Minister, however, disclaimed any jurisdiction to determine the question. It was therefore suggested that the parishioners should dael with the matter voluntarily. It is hoped that something will be done in the near future for this commendable object. Mr. Markham and Mr. Whiting gave lucid statements of their interviews with a representative of the Northampton Electric Lighting Company who are proposing to bring the over-head electric wires across their property, etc. A resolution was passed requesting the Council to arrange, if possible for a representative from the Company to attend in the future at a public meeting and explain the scheme. Thanks were accorded to the Chairman at the close.


Northampton Mercury 27 March 1925

Parish Meeting -----A good number of parishioners were attendance. Mr. Arthur Masterman presided. Nine nomination papers were handed in for five seats, and the subsequent voting by show hands resulted follows: J. E. Whiting 53, T. Osborne. J.P.. 46, A. Bavington 46. A. Clarke 45. W. Markham 45. J. Marsh 12, J. 11. Nichols 10, F. Mills 10, and E. Richardson 7. demand for a poll was made. The charily accounts were passed as satisfactory. A discussion took place regarding the proposed electric lighting system, and a resolution was passed requesting the Council to arrange, if possible, for a representative from the Northampton Electric Eight Company to attend at a public meeting to explain the scheme. Thanks were accorded the chairman.


Northampton Mercury 25 April 1930

CASTLETHORPE SEWAGE SCHEME. The Surveyor reported that Lord Carrington had made a contribution of £20 towards the cost the Castlethorpe sewer extension, and it was decided to send a letter of thanks his lordship.
A letter was read from Castlethorpe Parish Council expressing appreciation and thanks for the promptness and efficiency with which, the Sanitary Committee and the Sanitary Inspector had dealt with the sewerage scheme. Mr. A. J. Markham, the Councillor for Castlethorpe, supported the thanks, and spoke very highly of the manner in which Mr. Casstles had carried out the work.


Northampton Mercury 20 June 1930

The Housing Committee reported the receipt of a petition from the Castlethorpe Pariah Council which they stated had been received by them, signed by five residents of the village, asking for a number houses to be built in the parish. The Parish Council supported the petition. The surveyor was instructed to submit a report to the next meeting.


Northampton Mercury 18 July 1930

RURAL HOUSING.

No More Building Yet at Hanslope or
Castlethorpe.

At Wednesday’s meeting of Newport Pagnell Rural District Council, the Housing Committee reported they had received resolution from the Hanslope Parish Council, making application for the erection of another twelve houses of the semidetached type, but the committee felt they could not recommend the erection of further houses in this parish at the present time as there were other parishes to be considered. When the present Council houses at Hanslope were ail occupied certain houses would be released, and the owners would be pressed to put them in a better state of repair.
The Surveyor’s report on the housing condition at Castlethorpe were that they were in a much better state than those of several other parishes. On those grounds the committee could not recommend building at the present time, but would again consider the matter at a future meeting.


Northampton Mercury 10 October 1930

Mr. Markham called attention to the untidiness the streets at Castlethorpe since the highways were taken over the County Council, and it was decided to write to the County Council on the matter.


Northampton Mercury 16 June 1931

HANSLOPE & CASTLETHORPE.

The Housing Committee reported that they had received resolution from Hanslope Parish Council asking for a further twelve Council houses, as the need for more houses was still great. The Surveyor was directed to make inquiries as to a site and to report. Concerning Castlethorpe housing, Colonel Williams reported that he met the representatives of the Castlethorpe Parish Council with reference to the acquisition of a site, and he and Mr. George Tayler were requested to meet the owner’s agents the next time they were in the neighbourhood.


Northampton Mercury 14 August 1931

NEWPORT PAGNELL RURAL COUNCIL.

The committee also resolved to offer £300 for two acres of land for houses at Castlethorpe, subject to the approval of the Minister.


Northampton Mercury 01 January 1932

Housing sites at Little Brickhill and Old Bradwell were provisionally approved and the Clerk was instructed to reply to Hanslope Parish Council, who asked for another 12 houses, that the Council were considering the question of erecting houses at Castlethorpe, which should relieve the pressure.


Northampton Mercury 29 January 1932

CASTLETHORPE

The Newport Pagnell Rural District Council is in negotiation with the agent Lord Carrington for the purchase of two acres of land as a building site. Castlethorpe, in common with other villages, is in need of houses.


Northampton Mercury 29 January 1932

SCHEMES
Castlethorpe Land at
£150 an Acre

Attention was drawn to the offers of  housing site at Lavendon and Castlethorpe at Wednesday’s meeting of the Newport Pagnell Rural Council.
Major Sir Everard Duncombe said in the case £80 per acre was asked by the owner, and at Castlethorpe £300 for two acres was asked by Messrs. J. Carter Jonas and boas (agents for Lord Carrington).
Sir Everard asked if the Housing Committee were satisfied that they were equitable prices.
Colonel J. Williams replied that with respect to the Castlethorpe land those who had been working on the Housing Committee would remember that the original price asked was nearer £300 per acre, but had been gradually been cut down to £l50. The price of land in the district varied, and it was notorious that the land at Castlethorpe was higher than in any other part. They could not explain this, there appeared be no reason for it. The fact remained that everybody, including private individuals, had to pay more for land at Castlethorpe than anywhere else.


Northampton Mercury 20 May 1932

COMPETITION FOR HOUSES

THERE is quite a keen rivalry going between the twin villages of Castlethorpe and Hanslope as to the building of Council houses, Newport Rural Council consider that if they build at the former place it should cover the needs of the other. Hanslope, however, are determined they shall not be overlooked. The Parish Council have expressed the opinion that the need for houses in the village is still great, and are pressing for the erection of another 16 houses. The Rural Council are now asking to be furnished with full particulars as to the position and price of a suggested site.


Northampton Mercury 20 May 1932

OVERCROWDING AT HANSLOPE

It was reported the inspectors that there were eight cases of overcrowding at Hanslope and four at Castlethorpe, and the applications for houses were 17 and six respectively. It was decided that a site of two acres in the latter village be proceeded with. The Housing Committee were still of opinion that if houses were built on this site the needs of both parishes would be met, but they would be prepared to consider a site referred to by the Hanslope Parish Council if latter would furnish full particulars.


Northampton Mercury 15 July 1932

CONCESSIONS FOR TENANTS
IN WOLVERTON AREA

There will be no restrictions on keeping hens, pigs, or lodgers.”
Thus wrote a Bletchley builder to Wolverton Urban Council when explaining a scheme for building houses in the district. He stated that the 100 houses he proposed to erect at Castlethorpe would be let at an economic rent, and would save Wolverton approximately £220 a year on the rates.
The council has made an application to the Ministry to build 60 houses at Bradwell, with the result that an inspector was sent to Wolverton. One of the councillors (Mr. A. Brown) and the clerk (Mr. W. S. Parrott) discussed with him the position of the influx of men from other centres. The inspector informed them it would not be long before they got a definite decision. He was acquainted with the contents of the builder’s letter.
Mr. Brown told the council they spent hour with the Ministry’s representative. Giving the figures of men transferred to Wolverton, he said that, ignoring all juniors, 258 had been transferred from Kentish Town, Plaistow, Crewe, and Manchester, and there were still further men to come from the last-named place. He gave the inspector the exact figures from each place, and they went fully into the question of the possibility of men buying houses. The impression he gleaned from the inspector was that the officers and representatives of the council had made out a case for housing requirements.
The next move was the Ministry.


Northampton Mercury 27 January 1933

HOUSES AT 3s. A WEEK

It was stated at a meeting of Newport Pagnell Rural Council this week that the new Council houses at Little Brickhill were to be let at 3s. a week, this is primarily due to the decrease in the cost of building. A recommendation of the committee directing the clerk to instruct solicitors to complete the purchase of a  piece allotment land as a site for eight houses at Castlethorpe was referred back. Colonel J. Williams remarking had never yet heard of a case where the purchase price had not been accompanied by some definite statement as to compensation.


Northampton Mercury 24 February 1933

Newport Pagnell Rural Council. The Ministry of Health wrote approving the erection of eight non-parlour houses at Castlethorpe, and the draft contract was approved.


Northampton Mercury 21 April 1933

Newport Pagnell Rural Council: The Ministry wrote sanctioning the acceptance of Mr. Bird’s tender for the erection of houses at Castlethorpe, and it was resolved to apply for a loan of £2,341 for the eight houses.


Northampton Mercury 19 May 1933

HOUSING SCHEMES The tender of Mr. T. H. Bird for 12 houses at Old Bradwell for £3,294 was accepted, subject to approval. It was reported that a fairly good supply of water had been found on the housing site at Castlethorpe.


Northampton Mercury 01 November 1935

Plans and the complete scheme for sewerage at Castlethorpe at an estimated cost of £4,300 were submitted, and ordered to be forwarded to the Ministry of Health, with an agreement in principle that it was a proper case for a grant by the Council, which would determine the grant made by the County Council.


Northampton Mercury 20 December 1935

NEWPORT PAGNELL RURAL COUNCIL:
The Clerk reported that he had made application to the Bucks County Council for a grant towards the cost of sewerage and sewage disposal schemes at Castlethorpe and Emberton. The cost was £4,300 and £5,150, and the capital cost 2s. 11d. and 4s. 1d. in the (gross) respectively. It was decided to ask the surveyor (Mr. J. C. Nicholls) for his opinion as to other parishes where the need of a sewerage scheme was becoming urgent or had already been commenced.


Northampton Mercury 20 January 1939

MORE HOUSES As an instalment of their five years’ building programme, the Housing Committee recommended that during the year houses be erected on land already acquired by the Council as follows: Olney, 24 (eight agricultural, four for overcrowding and 12 for slum clearance); Castlethorpe, eight (six agricultural, two slum clearance); Hanslope, Bow Brickhill and Little Linford, four each place for agricultural needs. The recommendation was adopted.


Northampton Mercury 19 January 1940

The Newport Pagnell Rural Council have approved a suggestion by the chairman (Colonel J. P. Wyness) concerning the letting of four new Council houses at Castlethorpe to agricultural workers, that they enter an agreement to give up the tenancy if they changed their occupation. There were 19 applications for the four houses, including six agricultural workers.


Northampton Mercury 10 May 1940

COLLAPSE OF PART OF BRIDGE

The Highways Committee reported that serious defects recently developed in the masonry of the bridge over the river Tove at the Northamptonshire county boundary between Cosgrove and Castlethorpe.

The boundary through the centre of the main … arch masonry structure, and the … defect had occurred in the Northamptonshire half of the structure wh… section of the bridge parapet and spandrils of the west arch had collapsed into the river.

Other defects of a similar, but … serious nature had been a… throughout the bridge
The necessary repairs had been … in hand.
.The estimated cost to be shared between the two County Councils will be about £200. the Northamptonshire County Council being responsible for  the whole cost of the remaining section of their a… walls.

[Note: the article goes into the fold of the newspaper, thereby making it difficult to read.]


Northampton Mercury 01 June 1945

MOST PROGRESSIVE AUTHORITY?

Newport Pagnell Rural Council is without doubt the most progressive authority in housing matters over a wide district. Plans are being forwarded to the Senior Regional Officer for four houses at Castlethorpe and four in Maltmill-lane, Hanslope.


Northampton Mercury 31 May 1946

A DECISION

Newport Pagnell Rural Council yesterday decided to employ for three years a full time architect. instead of a clerk of works.
The Housing Committee reported that four houses at Castlethorpe had been, completed and were ready for occupation. The letting of one of the houses was debated at some length.


Northampton Mercury 11 May 1951

CASTLETHORPE AND HAVERSHAM

In the Newport Pagnell Rural District there were polls at Castlethorpe and Haversham. At Haversham the retiring councillor was defeated in a straight fight and at Castlethorpe the daughter of Mr. W. D. Markham—who retired through ill-health—was also defeated in a straight fight. Results; CASTLETHORPE (One vacancy)
Elected: Harry Dollery [Dolling] 157
Unsuccessful: Mrs. Marcelle Ridout 118.
HAVERSHAM (One vacancy) Elected: John B. Clark 204

Unsuccessful: Walter F. Allen, 154.


Northampton Mercury 25 May 1951

MAGNIFICENT JOB

Captain J. B. P. Fitzgerald said Colonel Wyness had done a magnificent job. He added: “I have the greatest respect and admiration for the work of Colonel Byam-Grounds, and I think he will make an able chairman. It is rather a difficult choice.”
It was agreed that in future a chairman should not hold office for more than three successive years. The chairman welcomed two new members of the council, Mr. H. Dolling, of Castlethorpe, and Mr. J. B. Clarke, of Haversham.


Northampton Mercury 19 November 1954

20 HOUSES ALLOCATED
The housing sub-committee reported on the allocation of 20 house.

REVALUATION Mr. E. Gurney, chairman the committee, said that as they considered it would be six months or more before they obtained land at Olney, they thought it would be better allocate the houses where there was land available. Mr. H. F. Dolling (Castlethorpe) said he objected most strongly to the decision to build eight houses at Castlethorpe and put eight Hanslope people in them. He said he thought these houses should have been shared between Castlethorpe and Hanslope people. Mr. Gurney said Castlethorpe’s need was not as great as in some other parts. There were land difficulties at Hanslope.