January 4th – Goytre Children’s Entertainment

In aid of school funds, Saron Baptist Sunday School gave an entertainment at Penpellenny Schoolroom.

The programme consisted of a playlet by the children entitled “The Golden Seam,” recitations, solos, also a dialog by the adults entitled “Honesty the Best Policy.” There was an enthusiastic and appreciative audience to encourage the young performers, who carried out their effective parts with a clearness of enunciation and a confidence that spoke volumes for the training received.

Much credit is due to Miss E Williams, the accompanist , and Mr & Mrs Vaughan Croesnypant, who helped to train the children and make the dresses so dainty and effective.

Mr Lewis, Pentre Grange, occupied the choir. After a hearty vote of thanks had been passed for the chairman, a very pleasant evening was brought to a close by singing God save the King.

January 4th – Mr David Hutchinson of Nantyderry (In Obituaries)

January 11th – Danger to Motorists

For allowing pigs to stray on the highway, Edward Charles, farmer, (Parc-y-brain) was ordered to pay 5s costs.

When approached by PC Taylor, the defendant, it was stated made the excuse that “someone must have left the gate open.”

Administering a caution, the chairman reminded Mr Charles that the presence of pigs on the highway was most dangerous to motor traffic.

March 1st – Death of a Nantyderry Lady

The death took place on Tuesday, at the residence of her father, Mr J Harding, Nantyderry of Mrs Flowers, widow of Mr Flowers, who pre-deceased her some years ago. Deceased, who was well known and respected at Nantyderry, leaves a daughter to mourn the loss of a devoted mother. The funeral takes place tomorrow, Saturday.

March 8th – Funeral of Nantyderry Widow

The funeral took place on Saturday at Goytrey Church, of Mrs Alice Flowers, whose death was reported last week , occurred on the previous Tuesday. She was the widow of the late Mr Gilbert Flower of Temple Cloud, near Bristol, who predeceased her seven years ago..

Deceased who was 39 years of age was the daughter of Mr John Harding, Nantyderry with who she had lived since the death o f her husband.

Mrs Flower was born in the same house in which she died. Unassuming in character, she possessed a sweet and loveable disposition and throughout the countryside, her demise roused general sympathy with her aged father and family.

The Rev. HCP Belcher, M.A. conducted the services at the house and graveside. With Mr C Merrick presiding at the organ, two of the deceased favourite hymns were sung, viz., “God moves in mysterious way” and “Thy will be done.”

The bearers were Messrs Spencer, Dobbs, Taylor and Lloyd.

The mourners were:

Father; Millie, Laura and Edith and husbands, (sisters and brothers-in-law) Richard and Harry, (brothers) and Mrs Flowers (mother in law.)

April 12th 

House to Let, with garden, Goytrey, 3 minutes from bus. – apply E Edgar Ynyspica. Cottage and garden to let apply Evans, Great house Mamhilad

April 19th – St Peter’s Church – over 200 Easter communicants

The annual Easter Vestry was held in the schoolroom on Friday, the Rector presiding. Mr Richard Jenkins and Mr Herbert Gwatkin were re-appointed rector’s and people’s warden respectively.

The following were elected sidemen for the ensuing year:

Messrs; A Bullock, Morgan Edwards, T Evans, W Harris, H Hughes, W Jackson, W J Jenkins, T Jenkins, C Tedman Jones, G Jones, W L Jones, D Knight, EJ Morris, W Nichols, E Owen, J Owen, R J Rosser, W E Rouse, E Spence, and Cast L D Whitehouse.

Parochial Church Council:

Messrs: W Jackson, D Knight, C W Merrick, E J Morris, R J Rosser and Capt L D Whitehouse.

The rector thanked the church workers for their continued and valuable assistance and their Loyal and hearty co-operation. the meeting commented upon the large number of communicants at the Easter Festival and remarked upon the generally satisfactory nature of the mature accounts. A vote of thanks to the chairman concluded the proceedings.

May 10th – An Unfortunate Couple

Trading Troubles at Goytrey and Pontypool – A Pathetic Case

Frederick W Millard and his wife Annie, of High Street, Pontypool, appeared at Newport Bankruptcy Court on Tuesday for examination before Mr L H Horby, D L The Registrar.

Frederick W Millard who is in his 60th year, attributed his failure to trade depressed and ill-health following an accident in 1921, which crippled him, while working as a pattern maker at a steel works and for which he was awarded £300 compensation. His wife then became a credit draper but she had nine months illness and her taking decreased.

With the £300 compensation received in respect of the accident Millward bought Glanynant Cottage, Goytrey, for £400 and left £200 of that on mortgage. He also bought a pony and trap for £30 which was used for hiring for light haulage before the buses honeycombed the district. It was also used to assist his wife in her business as a credit draper.In 1928 he went to Pontypool, where he bought the premises, 21 and 22 High Street for £465 the whole of which was raised by mortgage. There he commenced a confectionary and general dealers business. His liabilities expected rank for dividend were given as £101 and deficiency was £65.

The wife, Annie Millard, gave her liabilities as £137 and the deficiency was £124.

“I thought times would come better and I would succeed ,” she pathetically remarked. A friend in February this year made an offer of 4s in the £ but it was not accepted. She and her husband then filed their petition.

Mrs Millward attributed her failure to trade depression and the illness of her husband and herself.

May 24th – Ownership Disclaimed at Goytrey Inn

Suspicious act at closing time in the Goytrey Arms Goytrey during a police visit on April 6th, was investigated at Pontypool Police Court on Saturday when Arthur Jones, the licensee was summoned for supplying beer to Albert Ruck, a youth of twenty one, whilst the latter was charged with aiding and abetting in the offence.

Mr Horace S Lyne, Newport, prosecuted for the police and Mr W H V Bythway Pontypool, defended.

Visiting the Inn at 4.30 pm, on the Saturday in question, P C Taylor said he saw twelve men in the smoke room. Six of them were playing cards, the defendant Ruck was sitting with his back to the bar, and noticing that he was trying to conceal something with his right arm, witness asked him to stand up, which he did. He then found a half pint measure full of what appeared to be freshly drawn beer with froth on it.

The landlord when spoken to disputed that it was freshly-drawn beer, saying that he had drawn all the beer supplied during the hours and that he could not account for it.

To prove his assertion that it was not freshly drawn beer, Mr Jones drew a half pint of beer contrasting the difference in the beer.

Ruck said he knew nothing about the half pint, adding, “It is not mine.”

Could Tell Fresh Beer

Corroborative evidence was given by PC Duncan, who, in reply to Mr Bythway , said he could tell when beer was freshly drawn. He was not a teetotaller, but he did not drink beer. (Laughter)

Addressing the Bench, Mr Bythway said the young man Ruck had beer whatsoever after closing time and he had purchased none. He did, however, did take a sip out of his fathers half-pint at open tap. Young Ruck was watching the game of cards – the usual Saturday afternoons amusement in the country – when the police entered the Inn and he did not know the half pint measure of beer was there.

On the afternoon in question some young men had been engaged in repairing a touring car outside the Inn and some of them joined in the game of cards. The men were perfectly lawful there after hours and had not had any drink.

The Chairman: Not even a pop? (Laughter)

Mr Bythway: No Sir

Without hearing any further evidence, the bench decided to dismiss both summonses owing to the strong element of doubt in regard to the supply.

The Chairman estimated that the Bench thought the police had acted rightly in bringing forward the case.

May 24th

Goytre Parish Council ask for a competitive bus service.

June 7th – Alleged Theft

Lewis Morgan, 17 of Prescoed, who is working at Gwenydd Farm, Goytrey, was brought up on Monday morning, before Messrs H A Williams and S A Hiley, on a charge of stealing a pair of trousers, value 7s 11d the property of Thomas Pearce, another young farm labourer of New House, Llangwm. He was remanded on bail until June 13th.

June 21st – SS Anniversary Goytrey

On Sunday the Sunday school anniversary services were held at Saron Baptist Chapel. In the morning Mr James, Pengroesoped gave an eloquent address to a fairly good congregation, he also presided over the afternoon service.

The evening service was presided over by Mr C Morgan, Macs-y-beren, Goytrey.

June 28th – Funeral of Mrs Rachel Owen at Goytrey Parish Church.

The funeral took place on Wednesday last at Goytrey Parish Church of Mrs Rachel Owen, aged 54 of Nightingale Cottage, Goytrey, who passed away on the previous Friday.

Deceased, who was the wife of Mr Albert Owen, was highly respected in the district, she leaves a husband, three sons and three daughters to mourn their loss.

July 5th – From farmer’s boy to M.A. Mr J Evan Jones, Abergwellan

Among the results of the post graduate Research Degree examinations of the University of Wales, recently announced, is the name of Mr T Evans Jones, B.A., Abergwellan, Goytrey.

July 19th – Goytrey Presentation

A large number of women’s unionists from Goytrey, Llanover and Mamhilad  met at Nantyderry on Monday to congratulate their president Mrs L D Whitehead on the conferment of the honour of O.B.E. and to present to Her a gift as a mark of their esteem and affection. The gift took the form of a beautiful silver and tortoiseshell casket, suitably inscribed and an album containing the names of the subscribers.

August 23rd – Motor Cyclist Summoned

George Dudley of Goytre, steel-worker was  fined 10s for each driving offence, 1. driving without lights at Mamhilad 2. for not having a driving licence 3. no rear light.

Goytrey Possession Case

Before Deputy Judge Hugh Jones at Pontypool County Court on Wednesday, Mrs Sarah Ann Edgar applied for possession of two de-controlled dwelling houses known as Plough Cottages, Goytrey, tenented by William Henry Pitt and Joseph Cozier. Arrears of rent, it was stated, were owing in respect of both the houses, which were let at a weekly rental of 10s 3d and 10s 1d (including rates) respectively. Possession was granted within 28 days.

August 30th – Bankruptcy case – Gazette Notice

Receiving Order in Bankruptcy Newport. Richard Alfred Bracey of Oak Tree Cottage Goytrey, journeyman pastry-cook.

September 13th

Furniture sale at the Birches Penpellenny, 7 minutes from the Carpenters  Arms.

October 11th

Goytre and district farmer’s sheepdog trials were held at Pentwyn Farm Little Mill.

October 18th – Goytre women’s unionist association.

A very successful whist drive and dance at Nantyderry on Thursday last, at which Sir Leo and Lady Forrester Walker were present. The event was organised by Mrs Tedman Jones. Prizes for whist were given. by Mrs L D Whitehouse.

The wining ladies were Mrs M Jones, Aberdovery; Mrs Marfel and Mrs Bullock, Goytrey; Gentlemen: Messrs T Williams, R Gwatkin, L S Jenkins, Llanover.

The following acted as M.C’s Messrs H Gratkin, E T Morris, J Rosser, D Knight and L Morgan Williams.

November 22nd – House in Goytrey, –

midway between Abergavenny and Pontypool. – Apply Woodlands, Llanover.

December 22nd – Good milk cow and calf for sale –

Prosser, Ty Newydd, Goytrey, Pontypool.

February 5th – Mr A L Hawkins Goytre

The funeral of Mr Avon Lyndon Hawkins 67, of Penwern took place at St Peter’s Church Goytre.

The Rev. A L Davies officiated at the house and Church. The organist was Mr C W Merrick.

Mourners: Derek, son; Jim and Les sons-in-law; Harry and Fred, brothers-in-law; Titus and Sid, cousins.

At the house, Loving wife Nell, Clara and Great, daughters, Dora, sister, Iris daughter-in-law, Lyn, cousin.

Polly, Gladys, B Manville, grandchildren; Minnie, T Jenkins, A Jenkins, F Beer, Bill, Jarold, aunt Bess and Cath.

Bearers S Williams s Walton B Griffiths and L Hickman

Others present:

I Dobbs, A E Messenger, R Maisey, I Hopkins, Halterman, S Dundford, A Probert, H Cowles, F Hickman, D Morgan, J Roberts, P Jones, F Walters, P Carpenter and others.

Flowers:

Loving wife Nell, Derek Iris and children, Clara Jim and family; Greta Les and family; Jane and Lyndon.; Veronica; Pat and Maureen; Lorraine; Dora and Harry; Ethel and family; Tom, uncle Avon and family; Aubrey, Ursula and family; Minnie; Mrs Rowland’s Margaret and family; Melvyn Joyce and family; Margaret Frank and family; Aubrey, Ursula and family; Ted and Reece Jenkins; Monmouthshire County Council and workmates; Cordite (2) section ROF; village officers and committee; Walton and Miles; Sid Eileen and family; Mr Cleaver and Margaret; Mr and Mrs Holterman; Gloria, Peter, Mrs Watkins and family; Aunt Noble and family; Wilf, Ethel and family; Mrs Cook and Mrs Davies; Mrs Jenkins and Stan; Mrs G Evans; Peter Wyn and children; Mr and Mrs B Bishop; Mr and Mrs Griffiths; Mrs Frewin and family; Mr & Mrs I Dobbs; Ben & Joan Wilding; Mr & Mrs Strangemoor; Winvon (florist)

Funeral arrangements by James and Powell, Goytre.

February 19th – Pontnewydd Choir

The residents of Nantyderry home for the aged were entertained to a musical evening on Friday by the Pontnewydd Male voice party.

Under their conductor Mr Fred Williams the party provided a varied programme, which was much appreciated.

Guest artist for the evening was Mme Honour Mathews-Clayton.

Individual items were given by Mr Graham Davies (baritone) Mr W Green (pianist accordion) and Mr Cyril Price (recitations).

The accompanist was Mrs W Smith, ACTL Griffithstown, assisted by Mrs Webb.

The Matron of the home Mrs Northcote, proposed a vote of thanks to the party.

April 8th – Stole from his mother

For the theft of clothing and other articles, valued at £18 14s 10d from his mother, Eric John Frewin of Fernlea, Goytre was committed by Pontypool magistrates for sentence at the Quarter Sessions appeal committee.

He was interviewed by PC Robert Morgan after his mother, 70 year old Caroline Frewin had complained about the thefts.

Frewin said I have sold them, what can I say?, it has happened before. I cannot help myself. In a statement Frewin said I sold them for 25/-.

To the magistrates Frewin said “at each time this year I get this trouble”. He could not get work because of ill health.

Among previous convictions listed against Frewin and produced by Supt John Haines was one for larceny from his mother’s home.

On May 13^th Eric John Frewin aged 32 was sent to prison for 12 months by Monmouthshire Quarter Sessions.

April 15th – Fire guts village hall at at Goytre

Fire on Monday night reduced Goytre village hall to a black hulk of twisted wreckage and deprived the villagers of their meeting point.

Smoke from a boiler house was the first signs of the fire and Mr Stanley Hayes, who first spotted it, raised the alarm.

Villagers soon rushed to see what could be done, but could only look on helplessly as flames fanned by a high wind soon reduced the building to a shell.

It was like a raging inferno said Mr Oswald Morgan headmaster of the local school who used the hall as a classroom. The children had left the hall about half an hour before the fire was seen.

Pieces of melting felt were dropping from the roof and burning holes in the floor said Mr Morgan who is chairman of the village hall committee.

When the fire service arrived they could do little as the fire had completely engulfed the building.

Equipment Destroyed

School equipment, including desks, chairs, cupboard and books and equipment belonging to other organisations such as the women’s institute , the young wives group, youth club, boy scouts, girl guides and brownies were destroyed.

The hall was built in 1947 by the national council of social service and the hall committee were in the process of purchasing it from them.

Mr Morgan said that despite their loss the villagers were determined to build another hall as soon as possible for they could not do without one.

The education authority in the meantime are to allow them the temporary use of the village school.

There is nothing to indicate the cause of the outbreak and the damage is estimated at several hundreds of pounds.

April 15th – Goytre Nr Pontypool

Occupying a delightful position enjoying magnificent views, 1.5 miles BNS , 4 Pontypool, 5 Usk, 6 Abergavenny and 12 Newport.

J Straker Chadwick & sons have received instructions to sell by private treaty the superior modern (built 1934) detached freehold residence Maesderwen

Standing in a neat easily maintained garden with sweeping pathways, lawn and rose gardens built of brick (rough cast) and roofed in red tile the accommodation affords,

triangular porch, hall with oak block floor, dining room, lounge 14ft 6” x 14ft with oak block floor, modern domestic offices including kitchen, pantry, cloakroom, laundry.

On the first floor from galleried landing with oak balustrade 3 large bedrooms, bathroom, independent WC the whole in immaculate condition, RV £30, garage main EL with numerous power points throughout . Main water and drainage

Vacant Possession.

April 29th – Goytre young people face up to adversity

Youngsters of goitre are showing a fine spirit of self-help in face of adversity

Their youth club having their village hall burnt down recently and they lost all their equipment in the fire. Now they are clearing the debris from the old hall which they hope to restore during the summer months to a condition which will permit them to resume their activities under cover.

The hall has a concrete base and three of the four walls are quite serviceable but one wall is badly damaged and of course there is no roof at present.

Mr P Carpenter of Bryn View Goytre who works in the furnishing department of the Abersychan and Pontypool co-operative society in Pontypool took over the leadership of the youth club about a year ago.

He told the Free Press there is a membership of between 40–50 people between the ages of 11 to 20 and we were going along very nicely until the fire which destroyed all our equipment.

But they are not lying down under misfortune and the boys and girls are prepared to work hard and contribute much of their pocket money to make the hall habitable again by the club.

Coats Off!

Working parties have laboured this week clearing up the debris. The repair of the damaged wall and re roofing are of course beyond us but we are all prepared to do everything possible to provide the club with a weatherproof home. We have tried without success to get alternative accommodation.

I think the boys and girls are showing the right spirit and deserve encouragement for there is no where else in the goitre district for them to spend their leisure time if anyone would like to help with money or in any other way their assistance would be appreciated.

Offers of help should be made to Mr Carpenter, Bryn View, Goytre.

May 13th – Goytre effort raises £65 for refugee fund

A successful sale of work and jumble sale was held at Goytre hall in aid of the world refugee year appeal.

It was originally planned to be held at Goytre village hall but after the disastrous fire which burnt out the hall Mrs Rees came to the rescue with the offer of her grounds at Goytre Hall.

All the organisations of the village took part, including the mothers union, women’s institute, youth clubs, brownies and wolf cubs. The sale was sponsored by the goitre branch of the young wives group, over £65 was raised.

Stallholders: Jumble; Mmes. H Frewin, W Owen, L Hickman, J Green, L price and S Litten.

New goods: Mmes; J Winnie, R Rouse and J Williams.

Cosmetics Mmes: J Kennedy, N Swinnerton, and P Whittingham.

Grocery: Mmes P Edwards, D Knight, A Lewis and B Bishop.

Cakes: Mme R Owen and J Thomas.

Bottle: goitre youth club.

Bran tub: goitre brownies.

Refreshments: Mmes G Jenkins, A Jenkins, C Frewin, J Maisey and P Price.

June 10th – Miss G M Owen Monkswood

The funeral of Miss Gwladys Maria Owen of the Nightingale Grove took place at St Peter’s Church Goitre.

The Rev A L Davies officiated at the house and church.

Mourners: Eddie, Bill and David, brothers; Annie and Win, sisters; Hilda, Phyllis and Glen, sisters in law; Ray and Ivor bros in law; Lydia, aunt; John David and Ron, nephews; Eileen, Reg, Ken, Laura, Jack and Harry, Ted and Don cousins;

Bearers: Messrs C Shepherdson, J Shepherdson, H Stinchcombe and A James.

Others present: J shepherdson, C Edwards, I Dobbs, I Hopkins, S Williams, Nurse Wilks, J Winstone, Mrs Winstone, T Edward, W James, R J Rosser.

Flowers: Eddie, Hilda and family; Bill, Phyllis and Graham; Win, Ivor, Ray and Geoffrey; Annie and Ray; David, Gen and Tim; aunts and uncles, Swansea; uncle Joe aunt Lydia, Eileen and boys.

Uncle Harry aunt Edie; Doreen Reg and Faily; Daphne and Douglas Watkins.

Marion David and Nigel, Llan farm.

Mr & Mrs I Hopkins and family.

Don Nancy and Philip Walnut tree.

Hilda and Arthur.

Laura Jack and Harry.

Ethel, John, Elaine ,Colin and Valerie.

Floss, Ivor and family.

Mr & Mrs Harvey Monkswood.

Plessy and Ivor.

From dear friends at hospital.

Funeral arrangements by James and Powell Goytre.

June 17th – Mr C W Merrick Goytre

The funeral of Mr Charles W Merrick (70) of Feltham, Newtown, Goitre took place at St Peter’s Church Goitre. The Rev A L Davies, rector Goitre officiated assisted by the Rev C Saralis, the curate of St Marys church Abergavenny.

Mr Merrick was, for 50 years the organist and choir master of St Peter’s church and latterly of St Mary’s church Abergavenny.

He was well known as a successful music teacher and many of his pupils were at his funeral. His witty and lively interest in music made him a popular choirmaster.

Mourners:

Wife Thea and daughter Brenda; Bill, Harry, brother-in-law, Ethel Farr, David and Ethel Wilks, Alfred Jackson, Gladys Jenkins, Harold and Mabel Wilks, cousins.

Mrs Draper and Mrs Dyke.

Bearers: Messrs I Dobbs, E Draper, D Price, J Williams.

Others present:

Mr M Harris, Mr & Mrs J Martin, J S Williams, E Messenger, W Owen, W Morgan, A Davies A Probert, Mr & Mrs Kennedy, Mrs Dibble, E Lewis, Mr Davies, E Morris, R Maisey, K Rosser, B Wilding, E Prosser, Mr & Mrs Whittingham, W Rouse, H Harding, S Williams, H Gwatkin, A Rosser, W Swinnerton, Mr & Mrs Lewis.

June 24th – Goitre parents petition

A petition from parents of pupils attending goitre primary school complaining about children having to eat meals off school desks and having to walk two miles in the rain to catch a bus so to attend Llanover school was presented at a meeting of the Pontypool group of primary school managers.

The petition also stated that the parents were worried that their children’s education was lacking because of time spent travelling between the two schools

Mr E Davies, clerk, replied, “the arrangements at Llanover are temporary. Pupils going to Llanover have already taken the 11 plus, all they are doing is really is marking time until September when they go to their next school. The statement that they walk two miles some days is not true,” he continued, “they catch a bus from Goitre to Llanover and do not have to walk any further than they did before.”

“There is no ground to build an annex to goitre school so the children can have a canteen,” said Mr Davies, “but I informed the cost of one decent classroom alone is £2000.”

The managers agreed to support the petition which is to be sent to the primary education committee and brought up when it meets on Wednesday.

July 1st – Parklands estate Goytre – picturesque country site 1.5 miles from the nylon spinners

For sale – and immediate erection –

Semi detached and detached freehold bungalows from £2,450 – £4000.

Plans and specification at Leonard D Morgan Ltd, Western Mail Chambers, 6a High St, Newport.

Representative on site Thursdays and Sundays 3pm – 7pm.

October 14th – Goytre in the 14th Century

Records dating back to the 14th Century were taken by Mr Baker, the Monmouthshire Archivist to a meeting of Goytre Women’s Institute.
Court records he said showed that Goytre, then known as Pellennie was reasonably law abiding in those far off days. The chief “crimes” appeared to have been in connection with straying goats. Another record showed that all the inhabitants of the parish were summoned for failing to maintain the highways in a good state of repair.

November 18th – Mrs A E Morgan, Goytre

The funeral of Mrs Ada Elizabeth Morgan aged 81 of the Gwynedd took place at Saron Church.

Mourners:

George, brother, Violet, Katy, Maud, Brenda, Iris, Ada, Vera, Mary, Gladys, Mary, Beryl and Stella, nieces.

Herbert, Dan, Ernie, Laurie, Michael, Arthur, David, Arwyn, Jim, nephews.

Cecil, Olive, Francis, Mabel and George.

Others present:

Mrs J Rogers, C Evans, John Powell, Mrs J James, Mr D Davies, Mr & Mrs Bottle, Mrs Wilks and Miss F Wilks, Mr & Mrs Lewis, Mrs Howell, R Morgan, J Litten, C Lewis, A Jacob, H Vimpany, C Jameson, E Morris, I Dobbs, T Taylor, A E Messenger, G Pritchard, D J Lewis, D Lewis, R Powell, Mr & Mrs Beeching, Mr & Mrs E Williams, Mr & Mrs W Essex, Mrs M Thomas, Mrs E Webb, Miss M Watts, Mmes Williams, Parry and Edwards.

Flowers:

Herbert and Violet, Dan, Rebecca and family, Maud, Bill and family, Ada, David, Hilda and Arwyn, Vera, Arthur and children, Frank and Brenda, Katie and family, Iris, Jim and sons, Leigh, Emily and family, Eric, Elsie and boys, Olive, Cecil Rosie and Jeff, Reg, Betty and children, William, Beryl and Lewis, Lorrie, Ethel and family, John Litten and Joyce, Reg and Berth, Rollingdean, Joyce and Jim, Mr & Mrs D Mathews, Bernard, Eileen and David, Mr & Mrs W Essex and Conway, Christine, Roger, Jill and Barbara, Frank, Martha and family, Members of Chapel Edd, A W Powles, Edith, Clare and Nancy, Arthur, Louise and Bill Evans, Mrs Court and Lou, All at the Croft, L & R J Rosser, Irene, Pat and Malcome, Joan, Arthur and Pamela, Mary Edwin and Elizabeth, Gewn, Chris and Elizabeth, Mr & Mrs J Rogers, Mr & Mrs Davies, Saron Cottage, Mr & Mrs I Dobbs, Mr & Mrs D Williams, All at Pentwyn, Members of Hanover W I.

Funeral arrangements James and Powell, Goytre.

January 3rd – What happened to the Cider Mill

The Pontypool magistrates were occupied for some time on Saturday in hearing evidence of alleged assault arising out of a village feud at Goytrey on November 10^th, when Charles Ewart Stinchcombe summoned Joseph Edgar for having assaulted him at Goytrey on the above date, also with having wilfully damaged his bicycle to the extent of £3 17s 6d. He also summoned Sarah Ann Edgar for having assaulted him, and for having wilfully damaged his coat to the extent of £1.

There were cross summons for assault against William Thomas Stinchcombe, Charles Ewart Stinchcombe by Joseph Edgar and Edwin Edgar, while Charles Ewart Stinchcombe summoned Edwin Edgar for assault and William Stinchcombe laid a similar complaint against Joseph Edgar.

Mr W J Everett appeared for the Stinchcombes and Mr H Saunders represented the other defendants.

William Thomas Stinchcombe a wheelwright of Blaenavon deposed that he went to fetch a cider mill from Pentwyn in order to take it to Monkswood. When they got to the pond the cider mill sunk into the mud on the road. Witness took the horse out and the cider mill was left there for the night. On the morning of November 20^th witness got to the cider mill, when the elder defendant Edgar was there, witness told him to go into his house as they could get the cider mill out without his help. Witness alleged that Edgar struck him on the face and fetched out his (Edgar’s) wife and son. The latter was stripped to the shirt and shouted “where are the — Stinchcombes! Joseph Edgar further alleged the witness struck his (witness’s) brother three times. His brother did not strike back. Defendant Joseph Edgar then rushed at witness and struck him several times on the side of the face with his fist. He said “I will kill you, you—.

They went back into the house and came out again in about 10 minutes. The three defendants threw stones at complainants.

Witness had given no provocation whatever to Joseph Edgar. Witness saw Mrs Edgar scratch his brother Charles down the face. He saw defendant Joseph Edgar pull the bicycle pump out of his (witness’s) brother coat pocket and throw it into the pond. He also saw Joseph Edgar assault his brother.

By Mr Saunders: He had not complained to the Rural Council about the pond, but he had heard that they had received orders to fill it in. He did not take the cider mill along the main road because the lane was a shorter way. Mr Edgar lent them a horse to pull the cider mill out of the mud and they got it onto the path by the side of the house. The cider mill did not sink in the pond; it got stuck i the mud by the side of the pond. Edwin Edgar began cursing witness. Witness’s brother did not get hold of Edwin Edgar and try to push him into the pond. Witness did not pull off his clothes, he pulled off his coat but not to fight; only to try and get the cider mill out of the mud. He did not go for Joseph Edgar or strike him. Witness or his brother did not get Edwin Edgar down and jump on him. He admitted knocking Edwin Edgar down in self defence. Witness and his brother were not assaulting Edwin Edgar when Mr and Mrs Edgar came out of the house. It was not true that Mr and Mrs Edgar held witness’s brother against the wall until he promised to be peaceable.

The chairman here suggested that the parties should come to a settlement by talking the matter over, as it appeared to be a “neighbourly dispute”

The Clerk: “an unneighbourly dispute”. – (laughter)

The bench asked the solicitors concerned it they would use their influence with their clients with a view to a settlement.

The parties, with their solicitors, then retired, and after an absence of about a quarter of an hour, it was stated that they could not agree as to the damages to the bicycle, Mr Joseph Edgar denying that he damaged the cycle. He said the damage was caused by a horse.

The case was then preceded with, when similar evidence was given as to the alleged assaults.

Charles Ewart Stinchcombe corroborated his brother’s statement as to Mrs Edgar having scratched his face, and Joseph Edgar striking him on the face and other parts. He also struck witness’s brother and they fell, he further alleged that Joseph Edgar kicked his foot through the spokes of the witness’s bicycle which was standing against the hedge. He also threw witness’s pump into the pond. He also stated that Joseph Edgar and his mother rushed out of the house, struck him on the lip, cutting it, and threw a stone at him about the size of a brick. He did not tell the Edgar’s that the — pond ought to be filled in.

By Mr Saunders: The horse did not commit the damage to the bicycle.

Morgan Henry Williams of Monkswood spoke of having seen Joseph Edgar treading on the cycle. The horses were nowhere near it.

Charles Herbert Williams said the horses were quite five yards away from the machine. The animals began to kick and jump owing to the shouting.

The Chairman at this point said the Bench was agreed that the summonses and cross summonses should be dismissed.

Each party was ordered to pay its own costs. The question of damage was one for the County Court, concluded the Chairman.

February 3rd – Nantyderry  – Long Night Dance

In connection with the weekly dancing class, an enjoyable long night was held last week, when, despite the bad weather, there was a good company present. The refreshments were well looked after by Mesdames Jones and Collins and Miss A and L Spencer. Miss E Robins supplied the music. Mr H Jenkins and Mr C Bevan were the M.C.’s

Goytrey – Wedding

A pretty wedding took place at Saron Chapel on Wednesday morning, the Rev Colin Edwards officiating.

The bride was Miss Lily Edwards, the fifth daughter of the late Mr and Mrs Charles Edwards of Coed-y-Clapp, Mamhilad and the bridegroom Mr Thomas Lock of Tiverton Devon.

Monmouth Assizes

Murder Case Included in the Calendar

A murder charge against William Sullivan described as a labourer, is charged with the murder of Margaret Thomas, Lapstone Cottage Pengroesoped, Goytrey on October 26^th.

February 17th – Serious Charge at Goytrey

Prisoner before the Pontypool Bench

To Go To Assizes for Trial

A serious charge was preferred against Benjamin Morgan, a married man, of Goytrey, at the Pontypool Police Court on Saturday, before Mr G Jenkins (chairman) and other magistrates. He was accused of criminally assaulting a girl under the age of sixteen years, vis., 15 years, at Goytrey in September 1921.

Mr W J Everett’s prosecuted on behalf of the N.S.P.C.C. and Mr H Saunders defended.

Beatrice Edwards, living in a caravan at Lower Race, mother of the girl, produced her daughter’s birth certificate, which showed she was fifteen years of age when the alleged offence took place. She told how her daughter was taken into prisoner’s employ as a domestic servant and went with him in a taxi from Crane St. to his house to commence her duties. Her daughter left prisoner’s service at the end of October, in consequence of a statement by the girl witness and her husband went and saw prisoner at the Globe Hotel, Pontypool.

Witness said to prisoner; you are a nice man Mr Morgan. He said; what for? Witness replied: My Ellen’s in trouble. He said: You have not told anyone, have you? Witness replied: Not yet. He said: Don’t tell anyone and I will see Ellen righted. He also said that he would see that the girl was well provided for. He then asked witness and her husband to go in and have a drink. When in the Globe witness’s husband said to prisoner don’t you think you ought to be ashamed of yourself assaulting a girl when your wife was upstairs?

Prisoner said Sh! My brother’s in the passage and I don’t want him to hear.

In her evidence the girl said went into the prisoner’s service at Goytrey at the end of August last year. After she had been there three weeks or a month prisoner arrived home between 10 and 10.30 at night. Mrs Morgan was in bed upstairs and witness slept with one of the little girls. Witness had also gone to bed each night before prisoner got home. He used to shout out to her when he got home to come down and make him a cup of tea. The witness proceeded to to relate what took place on five or six nights.

In answer to questions, she said she did not scream or tell Mrs Morgan because she was afraid to do so. She did not make any complaint to her mother until she had been home some time, after having left prisoner’s service.

Cross-examined: She could not say why she did not scream out so that Mrs Morgan could hear. On the occasions when Mr Morgan called her downstairs she put on her stocking and shoes and a frock over her night-gown. Mr and Mrs Morgan had not complained to her about her conduct with the men and boys in Mr Morgan’s employ. She had not been for a walk with another young man.

Richard Edwards, the girls’ stepfather corroborated his wife’s evidence.

P.C. Powell, who arrested prisoner at Goytrey, stated that when the warrant was read over to him, the accused denied having assaulted the girl. On the way to the police station he said: My wife used to go to meetings. I never stayed in the house with the girl by myself.

Dr McAllen said that when he examined the girl on January 30^th he found that she was pregnant.

Prisoner, who reserved his defence, was committed for trial at the next assizes.

1922 Electoral Register – Benjamin Morgan residing at Glan-y-Nant

April 28th – Morris

In ever affectionate remembrance of Raymond, the darling baby son of Mr and Mrs Val. Morris, Ash Cottage Goytrey, who passed away April 28^th 1920.

Safe in the arms of Jesus

Goytrey Case Adjourned

Mr S R C Bossanquet (instructed to prosecute by Mr W J Everett Pontypool) mentioned the case in which Benjamin Morgan (23) described as a labourer of Goytrey, near Pontypool, is indicted for alleged serious offences on diverse dates in respect of Ellen Violet Luss, a girl of the age of 15 years.

Mr Bossanquet said that the girl had been confined to London where she now lay very ill with pneumonia. Both sides had agreed to ask for an adjournment until the next assizes.

His Lordship allowed this, the witness’s recognanaces being enlarged.

The Grand Jury found a True Bill in this case.

July 14th – Small Holding

A Compact Small-Holding known as “Haymeadow” Goytrey bounded by good roads and comprising:

A Good Cottage, Farm Buildings and about 2 acres, 3 roods and 5 perches of Pasture and Arable Land numbered 812, 813, 814 and coloured pink on Plan 1 of the sale of the Marquees of Abergavenny’s Estate, including a Modern Bungalow with 2 rooms, fitted oven range, cart shed and stables, land tax 3s 0^1/2 Tithe 7s 11d. A part of this lot is occupied by Mr T Jones at a yearly rental of £14, notice to quit having been served on him to expire on 2^nd February last. The remainder, including the Bungalow is in hand and will be sold with Possession On Completion.

September 8th – Goytrey Parish Council

A meeting of the Council was held in the Penpellenny School on Thursday, when the whole of the council were present, viz: Messrs F J Harris, W E Davies, W Lewis, H Dowell, G Lewis, T Jenkins, H Morgan, R Evans, R Logan and E L Jones (clerk)

Mr W E Davies was elected chairman and Mr R Logan vice-chairman. Mr H Dowell and Mr R Logan were appointed overseers. – Mr F J Harris proposed a vote of thanks to the retiring Chairman, Mr Rufus Evans for the able and conscientious manner in which he had carried out his duties during his term of office.

Mr Evans suitable replied – it was proposed by Mr Dowell and seconded by Mr Harris that the clerk be instructed to write to the Great Western Railway Co., asking for a stopping train at Nantyderry on Sundays as this would greatly benefit the dairy farmers who at present had no means of forwarding milk supplies on that day; and also calling the attention of the Company to the lack of fires in their waiting rooms at Nantyderry Station during the recent spell of severe weather.

October 6th – Goytre – Successful Annual Competition – Rain Fails to Damp Enthusiasm

The continous downfall of rain on Wednesday failed to rob the 24^th annual ploughing match, hedging competitions etc., run under the auspices of the Goytre and District Farmers Associaion, of success.

There was a fair attendance and although the competitors found the conditions most trying they set up a keen contest. The event took place at Ty Cooke Farm by the kind permission of Mr Nicholas.

The president of the association is Mr W G Buchanan, Manor House, Llanvihangel and the chairman of the committee, Captain W Beer, Highmead Llanvair.

The judges were: Horses, Messrs WE Baker Magor and Evan Lewis Blackwood; Ploughing Messrs J Lewis Llwynderri Raglan and W Alford Raglan; Pigs, Mr R T Bach Griffithstown; Hedging Messrs D Lewis Gwehelog and W Morris Coed-y-gelly; and produce Miss Bevan Crumlin and Mrs Turner Crumlin.

The Awards

Horses: Turnout (son or servant of member)

1. Major Douglas Graham, Brynderwyn
2. Capt. W Beer Highmead Lanvair

Most valueable pair (geldings or mares)

1. Capt W Beer
2. Major Graham

Cart Sucker

1. Capt W Beer
2. D Thomas Nantyderry

Cart Brood Mare

1. and 2 Capt Beer

Nag Breed Mare

1. W E Davies Goytre House

Colliery Horse

1. D Protheroe Court Farm
2. Mrs Jenkins Mamhilad

Harness Horse (driven)

1. D David Llanover
2. M H Attewell Pentwyn
3. Capt. Beer

Foal

1. T Price White House

Horse or mare

1. T Price

Pigs

1. G Stinchcombe Yew Tree Goytre
2. W Lewis Tyrewen Goytre

Cottagers Pig

1. D Jones

Members pig

1. G Stinchcombe
2. W Lewis

Sow and pigs

1. H Attewell

Poultry and Dairy Produce

Goose

1. Miss Powell Bettws Newydd
2. Mrs Price White House

Ducks

1, Miss Jenkins Pentwyn

Miss Edwards Neuadd Llanover

Fowls

1. Mrs W Harris Glenusk Nantyderry

Butter

1. Major Graham
2. Miss Edwards Llanover

Cheese

1. Miss Smith Neuadd
2. Miss Edwards

Ploughing

Champion Class – open

1. W Jenkins Mamhilad House; 2, D James Penypark Llandenny; 3. D Phillips Bwlch

Champion Wheel Plough

1. W Jenkins Grey Hall Abergavenny; 2. Ambrose Jones Llanover; 3. A T Tucker Cwmdowlais Usk

Farmer or farmer’s son

1. J Llewellyn Gilwern; T Lane Llanvetherine; 3. A Tucker

Wagoners

1. Evan Mainwaring Coedhowell; 2. R E Jones Cwm; 3. J Thomas Court Farm Llanvihangel Pontypool

Boys under 18 years

1. T Jenkins Mamhilad; 2. C Price Lanvair; 3. H Nicholas Ty Cooke

Digger Plough

1. J Jenkins Pentwyn; 2. G Mathews Glenisca; 3. T Saunders Brynderwen

Hedging

Champion Prize

1. Divided between Harry Williams Gwehelog and W Howells Bryngwyn

Hedging and ditching – 11 yards in 6 hours

1. T Howells; 2. J Williams Cherry Orchard Lanvair; 3. F Mathews Pentwyn

Farmer’s son or servants under 23 years

1. W Bradley Glascoed; 2 F George Great House; 3. H Watkins Tyncae

Farm Servants – Indoor male servant

1. Percy Edwards Neuadd Llanover 3 years 11 months

Outdoor male servant

1. W Richards Ty Mawr 18 years 1 month

Female servant

1. Miss R M thomas Tyrewen 3 years 4 months

The winners of the block test – judging the weight of a live sheep, were, Mr Vivian and Miss Mary Marfell, both of whom were only a quarter of a pound out. The weight of the sheep was 206lbs.

The secreterial duties were admirably carried out by Mr W T Spencer, Lanvair Kilgeddin.

December 1st – A Timber Deal – Long Drawn Out Dispute

Goytrey – Abergavenny. 

At Abergavenny County Court on Friday before His Honour Judge Hill Kelly for the third time the dispute case in which H Dowell timber merchant of Goytrey was the plaintiff and Ivor G Marsh, timber merchant of Abergavenny the defendant. The point in dispute was whether a quantity of coppice grown oak purchased by defendant from plaintiff was according to contract.

Mr H S C Bosanquet (instructed by Mr W J Everret was for the plaintiff and Mr Jordan (instructed by Messrs Gabb, Price and Fisher) for the defendant.

Mr Bosanquet said that Mr David Jones was appointed independant valuer to view the timber and report and ge reported that there were six trunks which were not in accordance with the terms of the contract but there were certain questions still left open, one being as to how the surplus timber could be treated.

His Honour said that the independent valuer was appointed at his suggestion and if the parties had been content to abide by his decision there would have been no difficulty but when they got his report they desired to call a further body of evidence, which meant a waste of time and money.

Mr Bosanquet: the contract should be put into the hands of an independent valuer to report.

His Honour; that is what was done, but when I came to deal with his report you threw it aside and wanted to call a further body of evidence.

Mr Jordan said that he was not disatisfied with the report, which he considered in his favour but owing to the valuer being put into the box and giving certain answers it became necessary for him to call certain evidence before His Honour.

His Honour said that he had stated that he would hear any evidence but he must say again that a less satisfactory way of treating the case he had ever experienced in any court.

December 1st – Goytrey – Sad Bereavement

Quite a gloom was cast over the district last week when the tragic loss which has befallen the respected family of Mr and Mrs Litten (Rose Tree Cottage) became known.

Mr and Mrs Litten have had the great sorrow od losing two of their younger children within as many days. Their little girl Dorothy aged 13 months passed away on the Monday and Ernest, a bright little lad of 6 years, died the following day after a short illness in both cases.

The funeral took place on Thursday last, when both bodies were interred in the same grave at Saron graveyard and it was a touching sight to see the two little coffins lowered to their last resting place after one another.

The large number present and the numerous floral tributes alike revealed the deep sympathy which goes out to them in their heavy trial.

The chief mourners were Mr and Mrs Litten, father and mother, and the elder brother Jack and Frank Litten. May the thought that their little innocents are “safe in the hands of Jesus” console and comfort them until time, the most perfect healer of all, has assuaged their grief.