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f1rht JJ ournnl of tht Oirnnb i,adotll in tire of mire llenerahle of the .it. 3John of Jerusalem
Edited by GEORGE E. CRAFT, O.St , , F.R.S.A.
THE EDITOR SENDS SINCERE GREETI GS TO ALL READERS OF THE ST. JOHN GAZETTE AT HOME AI D OVERSEAS FOR CHRISTMAS AND THE NEW YEAR
At this time of the year it is well to pause awhile and to think on the kindly spirit of assistance which has been given to us during the past twelve months; and to consider the possibility of increasing our usefulness to the community at large in the coming year.
To-day so much is taken for granted, so much is accepted without thought, that little acts of kindness are often overlooked in the rush of the day.
The work of the Order and its Foundations come under this heading. It is done so quietly and efficiently, without fuss or flourish of trumpets, that on many occasions assistance has been rendered before those near at hand have had time to think about it.
There are occasions when assistance has been rendered not in public but very much behind the scenes, but the result has, nevertheless, been of great service to members of the Association and Brigade and, in fact, to all first aiders throughout the British Commonwealth of Nations. We r efer in this instance to those who have voluntarily given of their knowledge in the shape of technical articles in the Gazette. First and foremost must come Dr. N. Corbet Fletcher (S urgeonin-Chief), who has been Honorary Medical Correspondent since the inauguration of the Gazette in 1928. For nearly t wenty-one years the initials" N. C. F. " have featured in every issue, in health and in sickness the Doctor has made sure that his interesting" Case Reports" and his" Questions and Answers" have reached the Editorial Office at the correct tim e each month. To him, and to the many other members of the Medical profession who have helped from time to time, we extend sincere thanks on behalf of the lay members of the St. John Army.
In the future, as in the past, we must ensure that our knowledge is kept up to date, that constant practice and attention to duty will be our first considerations so that we shall never be called upon in vain. Sometimes we feel that our efforts are not appreciated; that members of th e general public take our assistance as a matter of course; but the very friendly words of thanks which are often said by those who have r eceived attention repay, if such is necessary, all the trouble we take to make ourselves efficient. The Good Samaritan gave his services without thought of reward; and his example is one which we of St. John should emulate on every possible occasion.
357
ST. JOHN COUNCILS IN THE COU NTIES
EAST RIDI TG OF YORKSHIRE
The inaugural meeting was held at Hull. Colonel the Lord Middleton (Lord Lieutenant) presided. MajorGeneral J. E. T. Younger (Secretary of the Order) explained the use and purposes of St. John Councils and the work which could be undertaken by its members. The President thanked General Younger; and Dr. Jennings (County Commissioner of the Brigade) expressed the view that the Council would benefit the Brigade.
Major Leonard Speight has been appointed Chairman of the Council with Dr. Jennings as Vice-Chairman. Miss Colliver (Brigade County Secretary) was appointed temporary secretary.
Dr. Jennings offered accommodation at Brigade Headquarters for future meetings of the Council; and this offer was accepted.
DORSET The St. John Council for Dorset has prepared a special certificate which will be awarded to members of the Order, Association or within the County, who have executed some good work. It will be sIgned by the President, Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Council before presentation.
GRAND PRI O RY CHURCH REBUILDING FUND
The Fund during November has been increased to £6>400, and contributions are still steadily flowing in.
Outstanding donations received during this month include one of £127 raised by the splendid efforts of the Preston ursing Division. This is at present the record figure for any one Division.
Also to be specially commended is the effort by the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Jamaica, which has succeeded in raising the sum of £9 0
In the next issue of THE GAZETTE it is intended to publish a special supplement containing acknowledgments to all those who have so far contributed to the Fund and thereafter month by month to include in these notes a detailed list of such acknowledgments.
Collecting cards have been forwarded to a considerable number of Centres, Corps, and Divisions, but more can be obtained from the Fund Committee St. John's Gate, London, E.C. 1.
GO O D WORK AT BOGNOR
during the football season as they nor- on their way to the ground mally cover hvo midweek games and four SiX cases were conveyed to hospI'tal Saturday matches each week.' , mcluding three fractured legs crushed
On ovember 13 members were called hands, and crushed toes. Altogether, upon to render assistance on the occasion 24 cases were attended on the field by a of the Bognor versus Dulwich Hamlet doctor who had the assistance of Brigade match in the qualifying round of the personnel. The Ambulance had previously F A been stationed on the field so was handy cup. for immediate use. '
A big "gate" was expected and a 0 temporary stand to accommodate 300 excellent feature of the accidtnt people had been erected. The Superinten- was e splendid work carried out by the dent, Ambulance Officer, and six Ambu- Ambul.ance Cadets. They were kept busy lance Cadets had just arrived at the field preI?anng stretchers, fetching water, when the temporary stand collapsed. equIpment, etc., and, according to the Fortunately, it was over half an hour reports of the St;Iperintendent, proved before the match was due to start and themselves to be mvaluable in such an only about 60 people were on th' The local press paid a g r eat e stand. tnbute to their work.
358
THE BRIGADE SURGEONS' CONFERENCE
At the Annual Conference of Brigade Surgeons, held on October 30 and 31, the Chief Commissioner, in welcoming the delegates, expressed grateful thanks to all Surgeons present for giving up their valuable time to be present.
The Surgeon-in-Chief (Dr. N. Corbet Fletcher) expressed thanks to the Chief Commissioner for his presence and inspiration.
This was the fifth Conference, and he voiced his thanks for the help given him by members of the Medical Profession. -' Last year it had been suggested that Divisional Surgeons must take one course of lectures and conduct one re-examination in order to obtain their efficiency for the year. This proposal had been accepted.
A suggestion that Nursing Divisions should be allowed to pass their reexamination in either first aid or home nursing had not been accepted. The third question dealt with was that of emergency midwifery instruction to Brigade members. County Commissioner Edwards had taken this matter up with the Royal College of Midwives but without any apparent
plete chaos existed, wireless was destroyed, communications broken, debris littered everywhere. Sir Ernest then gave particulars of experiments, stating that facts show that there was total destruction over a radius of one mile, very heavy damage for 2-3 miles, and light damage over a radius of 10 miles. Total area affected was over 40 square miles. The flames were seen for a distance of 450 miles and at 10,000 yards only by those who were wearing dark glasses. The temperature was 2,000 ° Those immediately in the vicinity were charred; there were 3rd degree burns as far as 1,500 yards and mild burns for 2-3 miles. Duration of heat was only a second.
Sir Ernest then gave details of radioactivity and the effects on the sebacious glands, buildings, etc. He also went into the subiect of treatment and suggested setting up of mobile civil defence organization.
ANNUAL DINNER
success. During a discussion on the subject This took place on Saturday evening, several Surgeons gave particulars of cases when Dr. N. Corbet Fletcher and Mrs. treated by Brigade personnel while on E. T. Milburn received the guests. ambulance duty. Following the Loyal Toast the Rt. Hon. Before calling on the first speaker, the the Lord Mayor proposed" The Order of Surgeon-in-Chief welcomed Lieut.-General St. John". As a Knight of the Order it Sir Otto Lund (Deputy Chief Com- gave him much pleasure to be present. missioner) and thanked him for the help The name of the Brigade was known he gave to the Surgeons. everywhere throughout England for its Sir Ernest Rock Carling, F.RC.S., voluntary work. The Lord Webb-Johnson F.RC.P., F .F.R, then gave a talk on (Hospitaller of the Order) responding to "Civil Defence and the Implications of the toast stated that voluntary work was Atomic Warfare ". As plans for war pioneer work, and this was a great proceeded it became apparent that compliment to the work of the Order. He laboratories must be set up for the expressed his admiration of the work of identification of bacteria for biological the Surgeons of the Brigade, and thanked warfare. The character of World War 2 the Lord Mayor for the interest he took closely resembled that of World War I, in the Order. and we must be ready for War 3 by making Major-General J. E. T. Younger (Secreuse of all that had been learned in War 2. tary of the Order) said it was a great We were attacked from the air on both privilege for such a comparative junior war and home fronts, and gained air and new boy as himself to be allowed to superiority. Without any warning we propose the toast of the Brigade. The were attacked by V-weapons 1 and 2. Brigade was essentially a virile modern These weapons arrived here every 20 organization. The Brigade sprung from minutes and everything depended on our the Association, but it has expanded and defence organization. has grown so that it has become a case of There was no anticipation of atomic war tail wagging the dog. So the Order had to-morrow, but we must foresee the cut off the tail and converted it into a implications and work for the defence. second very lusty dog. The Association In the destruction raids on Japan the and the Brigade now go forward as equals number of casualties made an almost in double harness. It is, however, imimpossible task for the Civil Defence portaRt to ensure the existence of a Organization. There was total destruction strong, virile Association A str ong of first aid posts and equipment. The heat Association means a strong Brigade, since of the fires was so great that it was the larger number of those who gain first an impossible task to reach them. Com- aid certificates from the Association, the 359
wider the recruiting field of the Brigade. I am proud to be an Honorary Member of the Brigade, the r ank and file of which are the salt of the earth. There is some wonderful and compelling spi r it which binds them together. It is not the Army act, nor the Pay 'Wa rrant, not the fear of the Sergeant l\Iajo r ; but whatever it is, it is a very magnetic thing. General Younger felt that the Surgeons were the backbone of the Brigade. It was, thanks to their devotion and enthus iasm, that the general public are ta u ght first aid and that the standard of first aid knowledge in the Brigade was mai n tai n ed. Th e Br igade is the Order's pri vat e a rmy devoted not to death and dest ru c ti o n bu t to s u ccour and relief of suffering hu mani ty.
Sir Otto L u nd (Deput y Chi e f Commissioner) responded to the toast. He spoke of the high sta nd a rd o f the Cadet illovement, and the w o r k of the Brigade under the Health Act. Th e n eed for voluntary work of the Brigad e is as great now as ever it was.
County Commissione r Edwards proposed "The G u ests", r es p on se being made by Surgeon Vice-Adm ira l Sir H enrv Co lson, wh o r e fe rre d t o th e Brigad'c pe rsonnel i n the RN.A. S.B R , giving sterl ing ser vice especially durin g th e 1939194 5 war .
The last toas t was th at of "The Chauman ". Dr. J R H ame rto n considcred it a great hono ur to p r opose this toast, and wished the S urgeo n -in-Chief every success in his wo r k. T he S urgeons were fortu nate in hav ing s u c h a man as the ir Chie f.
Dr. Co rb et F letcher , in r ep ly , sai d he ha d served the B ri gade fo r 40 years, hav1l1g become the S urgeo n - in -Chi ef in 1936. H e exp r essed thanks to Dr. 1 famerton for his good wishes, a n d t h anks to -:'IIr. E. T. :'IIi lburn (his sec r etar y) for his help.
During the even i ng Dr . F letch e r drew attention to t he fac t t h a t with th em t h a t evening was a n Ass istan t Co m miss ioner who had jo ined t h e Brigade 55 ye ars ago Dr. Clegg, from L ancas h ir e, r e cei v e d grea t wh en h e r ose t o ackn owl edg e the good WIs h es from hi s fe llow m e mb ers .
On Sunday I\ Iom ing S upt . G. Kirkh am D.ivision) spoke on m a int a in ing and mcr eas m g t he in ter est of m e m.b er s of the Brigade. H e gave th e doctors mu ch food fo r tho u ght a nd did not hesitate t o p r ess home poi nts which affe cte d th e ir wo r k with Di v isi o ns.
This tal k .was foll o w e d by another g Iven by Ass Ista nt Co mmiss ion er F. A. Trott, w h o str esse d t he import a n ce of co-o p er a tion in th e Divi sion, espec lally b e twee n Di v is io n a l officers th e S urgeo n, a nd th e m ember s.
360
Many points were d isc u sse d iollO\'\'in g these two talks. Mr. Dickson ' ''right , M .S ., F.RC .S. (Chairman of B.l\I.A. Com m itt ee on Film s) next addressed the Confe r e n ce o n th e u se of films in training, H e pra ise d th e work of the Brigade which saves m a n y li ves each year. It was r ealized th a t wh en trY1l1g to get something in to t h e simpl est head one must use eve ry m eans at dispos a l -not only auditory b ut a ls o v isual- o f 'what is to be conveyed. Th e prac tic a l demonstrations give a lit tl e more and th e film is the nearest thing to act u a l pra c ti cal demonstration. T he ma in ste p is t o fo rm a library of films. Cert a in film s w e r e available to members of th e B.M A. and it was hoped to widen th e fi e ld lat er. Mr. Dickson Wright t h en s howed three films: (1) Lifting the I nj ured ; (2) Tre a tment of a Wound; (3 ) H ow t o Ev e rt th e Upper Eyelid. These were fo ll owe d b y a special film shown by Dr. Stanford, of th e Scientific Film Associatio n, o n " Em e rgency I\lidwifery ". T hi s fi lm w as prepare d for UNRRA for use o f p e r so nn e l with th e invasion troops.
The afternoon sessio n w a s g ive n o ve r to Dr. F. C. Eve, w h o s p o ke on " Artifici a l Respiration ", and gave d e m o nstrati o n s of the Rocking St r etc h er and o th e r This was follo w e d b y a len g th y dISCUSSIOn in which many Brig ade Surgeons took part.
A short Conference of Dis trict and County Surgeons followe d , wh e n man y Brigade items were d iscussed. Th e importance of Surgeo n s' Co nfer e nces was stressed by many, a nd it was d ecid e d that a small committee sh o uld b e appointe d future arrange m e nts and to 1l1qUlr e mto the s u ggestio n th a t the next Conference shou ld b e h eld in th e Provinces.
pro (Co un ty Surge on, HampshIre) VOIce d t h e tha n ks and appreciation of present to t h e Surge qn-in-ChiC£ for p r esldmg at th is , th e fifth, Surge ons ' Confer ence, and a lso to his secretary , Mr. E. T . Milburn , for all he had done to make t h e Conferen ce su ccessful. This was Supp o rte d b y Divisional Surgeon Vollan (B irm ingh am) a nd the d ele gat e s present.
Just in Passing
A memb er of the Brigade reports the foll owing true story.
eld erly lady was inquiring from a the cost of a two-pi e ce suit, and was m for m e d that 16 guin e as would be The old lady replied: "No, I m afra ld not at m y time of life, it would t oo extravagant. I would rather give It to th e St J o hn Ambulance."
m11£ JUnhulmttt
INDIA.
BENGAL.
Calcutta Ambulance Divisions set up 15 Centres in different parts of the town during the smallpox epidemic in ] anuary and February, at which 12,882 persons were vaccinated up to the end of May; in addition 5,943 pers ons were innoculate d for cholera and 3,299 for plague. Noteworthy was th e serv ice rend e red at thes e centres, by Ripon Colle ge, Ashutosh College, Rabindra and J orasanko Di v isions.
A first aid post was organised by th e
®UtrSeas
vaccination in the camp. A fire which broke out during a storm on June 4 was promptly extinguished, and efficient first aid and other help was rendered to people whose tents had b ee n blown away. E r. R AILWAY.
Six members of the No.6 (E r. Railway) District rendered prompt first aid to casualties resulting from the appallin g railwa y accident which occurred b e tween Chhota Ambona and Pradhankhanta stations on the Grand Chord S e ction of the Asansol Division of the E r. Railway on May 15.
Kalighat South Calcutta Ambulanc e BOMBAY. Division at the D elegates Camp of the South East Asian Youth Confe r en c e where 24 d e legates from diffe rent countrie s w ere help e d . Another first aid p o st w a s set up on February 15 at the All India Exhibition in Eden Gardens wh e r e 250 cases were atte nded and 30 se rious on e s removed to hospitals. Th e Kashba Ambulance Division gav e duty durin g the Shivratri Mela from Marc h 8 to 10, and officers and members of the Rabindra and Kalighat Ambulan ce Di v isions attended during Chaitra S a nkra nti M e la from April 8 to 14 a t T a rke swa r wh e r e cholera inoculations w ere given to over 3,000 p e rsons ; twel ve cholera cases w e re removed to hospital. Prompt aid was also r e ndere d in sixty cases of minor injuri es. Squads of fir s t aid e rs as w ell as St John and R e d Cross ambulances were s e nt to the bathing ghats in and around Calcutta on May 9 and June 16 during solar eclips e and the Dashahta festi v al when h elp w a s given to a large numb e r of injur e d p er sons. Briga de volunt ee rs also g av e duty during the Olaichandi M ela on May 21 and at Panihati during the Baishnab Mela on June 19.
Memb e rs of the Nursin g Divisions who had worke d at th e Docks Canteen were greatly h e arte n e d in April by r e c e ivin g individually a m ess a ge of appreciation fro m M a j o r Gen e ral L. G. Whistle r on be h a lf of a ll ranks of t h e Britis h forc e s w hi ch h e commande d in India. G e n e ral Vh is tl e r forw a rd e d also a cheque fo r £ 50 t o Mrs. Brand, the L a dy District Sup e rint e nd ent, towards St . J ohn Ambulanc e funds On Febru a ry 28 , 1948, these m e mbers w e re all o tted s e ats by the Embarkation Authoriti e s at the Gateway of India to witness the cere mon y on the occasion of the d eparture of the last British unit to leave India by S S Emperor of Austra lia.
On March 27 Rani Maharaj Sin g h , Lad y President of the Nurs in g Di v is ions in Bombay, visited the Distr ict headquarters and in a bri ef addre ss urge d th e officers to persuade ladi e s to join Nurs ing Divisions in large numb e r s in order t o ensure much n ee d e d h e lp fo r our hospitals. Rani Maharaj Sin g h a ga in made a r e fe r e n ce to the importance of this work on April 7 at Gov e rnment House wh e r e an At Hom e was giv en to nursing memb e rs of No.3 and 16 Districts, including 26 new recruits The Annual General Meeting of the Bombay Provincial St. John Ambulan c e Association was held on April 26 and was addressed by His Exc ellency Raja Sir Maharaj Singh, Governor of Bombay.
St John volunteers and an ambulance were sent out for duty daily to the different sports grounds since the beginning of the football league matches on May 3. A squad of volunteers was also posted at the Beighton Cup Tournament from April 15 to May 1. Several casualties UNITED PROVINCES. were attended on these occasions. A training camp of members of No.7 Heartening reports continue to be District was held at Allahabad from received of the excellent relief work being January 12 to 15 and F e bruary 7 to 15 on done by Bengal volunteers at the Kuruk- the occasion of the Ardh Kumbh fair, and shetra Camp where 52 fresh workers were was attended by 26 members. Twelve deployed during the June quarter in three first aid posts in all were set up at different batches. Among other relief services times at which 150 cases wer e helped and performed by these volunteers, is the one old woman who received serious distribution of more than 100,000 yards injuries in a stampede was removed to of cloth and a large number of ready made hospital on a stretcher. Advantage was garments among refugees . Responsibility also taken at this camp to hold, on was taken for large scale innoculation and February 10, the Second U P. District 361
Conference. Lieut .-Co lonel G. D. :'Ifalhoutra, Assistant Commissioner, presided at the Conference. Members of the Bareilly Ambulance Division have rend ered good service to refugees at various local refugee camps and the railway station.
Malta
On November 11, Countess Mountbatten of Burma visited Brigade Headquarters at Valetta, where she met fiftysix Officers, including Divisional Presidents, eminent surgeons, all of whom were presented to her. She was particularly pleased to meet those Nursing
Officers ,,-hom she had met in Italy during the war.
Commissioner Lt.-Col. Abela spoke of the honour of her visit, and asked the Countess to deliver a message of greeting to the Brigade At Home, and to her illustrious husband, whom all in Malta admire and respect. He also referred to Countess Mountbatten as the modern "Florence Nightingale"; and to the fact that all members of the Brigade admired her rightly.
In reply, Countess Mountbatten made a charming and stirring speech, which thrilled everyone and endeared her greatly to all present.
SHAR E THROUGH CA.R.E. COMMITTEE
On Friday, November 12, Mr. Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., presented to Lt.-General Sir Henry Pownall (Chief Commissioner) 25 parcels containing food, and weighing some 700 lbs., which will be distributed to the needy by members of the Brigade.
l\Ir. Fairbanks is Chairman in the United States of the Share Through C.A.R.E. (Co-operation of American Relief to Europe) Committee, and is responsible for the sending of thousands of food and clothing parcels to the United Kingdom and Europe.
During the war Mr. Fairbanks for three years personally supported three private hospitals, the Douglas Voluntary Hospitals, in Southampton, Portsmouth, and Plymouth, and it was in this way that he became acquainted with the work of St. John.
Sir Henry acknowledging the gifts expressed sincere thanks to Mr. Fairbanks and the members of his Committee for the excellent work they were doing in the relief of the poor.
C.A.R.E. is a non-profit co-operative composed of 26 American relief agencies, and so far more than six and a half million C.A.R.E. parcels have come to Europe. The Share Through C.A.R.E. Committee is an organization of prominent Americans, headed by 1\1r. Fairbanks, which collects and raises money for the purchase of C.A.R.E. parcels.
Durin g the proceedings a first aid display was given by members of the Brigade under Commissioner Major A. C. White Knox.
Those presen t included Mr. Einar Olsen (Chief of the C.A.R.E. Mission in England and Wales), Mr. John J. Motley (Secretary to the Committee), Dunbar-Nasmith (Deputy Supermtendent-in-Chief), Mrs. B. Girouard (Assistant Superintendent-in-Chief), The Countess of Brecknock, the Chief Officers of Cadets, Major DarvilSmith (Brigade Secretary).
The presentation took place in St. John House.
' SLUGS AND SNAILS
By Major H. C. STEWART, M.D. (County
Surgeon, No. 1 (Prince of Wales's) District,
S.J.A.B.)
. . and puppydogs' tails, and that is what little boys are made of" or so runs the old nursery rhyme. But while that's a fancy, what about fact? The interest in our bodies depends on three things (a) the outward appearance or form, (b) the structure and constitution, and (c) the way the components work.
Let us consider a few of the more interesting points.
The form of the human body varies vvithin limits according to its covering, which consists in the main of muscle and fat, which smooth off the bony structure and turn angularity into curves, the whole being enclosed in an envelope of skin. If the muscle is developed, it gives one an athletic figure which, of course, is an asset provided the muscular development is not to the extent of making one slow or as it is called muscle-bound. If, however, fat preponderates, one may be suspected of living on the black market! The more unfortunate is the fat person who has often become an object of ridicule, especially on the music hall stage, but who is in fact frequently a cheery" life and soul of the party" person who makes light in more senses than one of his or her infirmity. As a matter of fact, fat people are often much less 'wo rried about their size than are their friends and relations. After all fat persons are well known, in addition to their cheery nature, for their kindness and tolerance, not forgetting the testimonial that Caesar said to Mark Anthony, "let me have men about me who are fat "
Thin people are frequently less convivial, for they feel the cold more than normal or fatter people, and often suffer from various types of indigestion, which makes the putting on of only a few ounces in weight quite an achievement. How these two types envy each other at times; the one eating all he can manage and putting on virtually no weight, while the other so often reiterates the well known saying, "You know I never eat a thing" and yet believes he puts on weight at the mere sight of food!
It is not always realized that there may be relatively little difference between the fat and thE; thin in origin, just like it is said" Madness ' is akin to Genius" ! Hot and cold are another similar pair, as one can be burnt from extremes of either, and the difference between them is only the matter of plus or minus heat as compared with the normal. Fatness and thinness are themselves only two extremes of the normal, and as a matter of fact not infrequently occur in the same family, though not necessarily in the same generation The difference between the two states may then be just the difference between the over activity on the one hand or under activity on the other, of certain important glands in our bodies, sometimes called endocrine or ductless glands, of which the pituitary is the most important
In a short article like this it is quite impossible to consider the way the components of our bodies work, but we can at least probe a little of its constitution and structure. The main constituents are of course, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, with water, salt, and a number of metallic substances, and in addition very small amounts of special and complicated substances such as vitamins.
The reader will already have realized that this article is not written in a too serious vein, but the statements made are not untrue for all that, and we may therefore perhaps include the following, which, surprising as it may sound, is in fact, true:-
Presentation of Food Parcels by 1\Ir. Douglas Fairbanks to the Chief Commissioner, Brigade-atHome.
An average man's body weighing 10 stone is composed of enough water to fill a 10 gallon vessel, fat enough to make 7 lb. of soap, carbon enough fOl' 9,000 " lead" pencils, and phosphorus enough to make 22,000 match heads; magnesium enough for a dose of salts, iron enough to make one medium-sized nail, lime enough to whitewash a chicken coop, and sulphur enough to rid one dog of its fleas I !
Well then if you strip a body of its life, and therefore of its glamour, that is all you have left !
Most of our body is water, not quite as high a percentage as III a or marrow, but nearly three-quarters is water all the same. Much of thIS water is bound up inside the cells, and therefore does not normally leave the tIssues, and in fact may even be difficult to extract from tissues after death.
Although most of fat in our bodies exists as fat rather than soap, most people know that the latter is readily made from the former, and until there are ample supplies of fats to eat, there cannot be enough surplus to turn into soap, and thus end our shortage of this commodity.
Carbon, of course, is the backbone of all living and organic material, and the word" lead" you see in conjunction with pencils is put in inverted commas because the writing part of the pencil, despite its name, is not made of lead, but of carbon.
Phosphorus is very important, even if not found in great amounts, and forms special types of fats found particularly in the brain and nerves, and it also plays an important role with calcium as calcium phosphate, in maintaining the solid structure of bones.
Magnesium sulphate is better known as epsom salts, while iron is a most important constituent of the red blood cell, which helps in the carriage of oxygen to and carbon dioxide from the tissues. A deficiency of iron leads to ancemia, which can be countered by giving iron salts <?r a diet rich in iron-containing food such as liver, red meat, spinach, etc.
Lime is another form of calcium, a metal found most commonly in bones, teeth, blood, and milk, and in the absence of which our nervous systems become over excitable .
Sulphur exists in various forms, sometimes playing an important role in certain /proteins such as insulin, while at other times it is contained in the liver certain drugs and waste products, the two being excreted together in the unne.
vVhen, you beauty or the beast, don't forget that in each case the effect IS only skin deep, and under the skin, which is not so thick after in the obstinate, there are queer goings on as one might say, but mterestmg nevertheless, to those who can spare a minute to stop and think!
DOWN ELSTREE WAY
The Chief Commissioner, accompanied by the Deputy Chl'ef Comm' . tl v' 't d El t St d' . . ISS LOner recen y e s u tos dlscuss Wlth Mr. Joe Grossman details of the 1949 Bri ade FlOal CompetItIons. WhIlst there they saw some scenes being shot fro th A B 1> C feature film" Man on the Run ". The above hoto ra h h me: the Director of the film, Sir Henry Pownall,J oIn LturednceJ HuGntmgdon, and Derek Farr. ' 0 un, oe rossman, 364
DIARY OF EVENTS
DECEMBER
18.
St. John Exhibition and Fair, Town Hall, Reading Presentation of Cadet Cultural Cups, St. John's Gate, London.
JANUARY
7. Derby Ambulance Division 50th Anniversary Dinner, Midland Hotel, Derby.
12. Derby Ambulance Division Jubilee Ball, Assembly Rooms, Derby.
14. Annual General Meeting of the Hospitallers Club, Bonnington Hotel, London.
15-16. County Secretaries' Course, St.
John House, London.
County Superintendents' and County Officers' (N) Conference, St. John House, London.
Competition Secretaries' Training Course, St. John House, London. Competition Training Course for Brigade Surgeons and Nursing Officers, St. .T ohn House, Londou. Meeting of the HospitaUers Club, Bonnington Hotel, London.
North Eastern British Railways, Newcastle District Competitions.
THE ST. JOHN EXHIBITION
crease in Brigade membership. adults and Cadets, will be the result.
CARVER CUP COMPETITION
The ninth annual competition for the Carver Cup was held on October 30, in the Municipal Technical College, Hull, the judges being Drs. A. G. Minn (team and No.5), W. Gibson (Nos. 1 and 2), and D. I. Fullerton (Nos. 3 and 4). This competition, which was started in 1931, attracted ten entries, including one team of women. Wath Main Colliery, for the second year in succession, narrowly gained first place, being half a mark in front of Barnburgh Main Colliery. The highest individual No.1 was provided by Hull City Police, followed by Dairycoates, Leeds City Police, and Wath Main Colliery.
The cup and prizes were presented by Mr. Moore, wife of Mr. R. C. Moore (Director of Education, Hull). Mr. G. H. Oakes (Chairman of the Committee, paid tribute to the services of two members of the medical profession who had given yeoman service to first aid. The following vote of thanks was unanimously passed: "That this gathering of ambulance workers wish to place on record our sincere thanks for and appreciation of, the great help so freely given to ambulance workers as Lecturers, Examiners, Coaches, and Judges for approximately 50 years each by Dr. K. H. Beverley of Worsbro' Dale, and Dr. ]. M. Hermon of Hessle, and extend our good wishes for a speedy recovery of Dr. Hermon."
POST OFFICE AMBULANCE CENTRE
During November the St. John Exhibition visited Devonshire. On November 3 it was opened at Knightsbridge for three days by the Countess Fortescue, who was supported by Councillor H. A. Pymont (Chairman V.D.C.), County Commissioner Dr. Morton Palmer, Mrs. Archie Camden (Exhibition Staff Officer), Lady Seale, and others. During the three days To stimulate interest in first aid within musical attractions were provided by the the Savings Certificate Divisions of the Kingsbridge Male Voice Choir, the Junior P.O. Savings Bank, a competition in the Music Makers, the Aveton Gifford Hand- form of team tests for men and a separate bell Ringers, the Kingsbridge Silver Prize test for teams of women was held at the Band, the Brixham Glee Party, Mr. John Savings Certificate Division Offices in Chilton, and Mr. George Dalton bringing Manor Gardens, Holloway, on November in the country districts. Nursing Cadets 22. An audience which included the gave demonstrations, and a whist drive Controller and his staff, the Ambulance wound up a very successful show. Net Officer G.P.O., and Secretary of the proceeds amounted to £200. Centre, watched an interesting display.
At Paignton the Exhibition was opened Most of the competitors had by Lady Imbert-Terry on November 9. previously displayed their knowledge in Councillor Chase (Chairman V.D.C.) the competition work.
County Commissioner, Mrs. Archie Cam- Manor Gardens brought off a" double ", den, and others, supported the opening being first in the men's and women's tests; functions. Each day parties of school- and in each case they were followed by children were personally taken round the Somerset Street. The judge was Mrs. Platt exhibits, and talks on the Order and (S.J.A.B.), who gave much useful informaBrigade were arranged. The net proceeds tion after the display.
towards Brigade funds were £50. The P.O. Ambulance Centre is indebted .
At both places attendances were good, to Miss Hutton, Manor Gardens, for so and judging by the inquiries that were ably acting as secretary and timekeeper made, it is hoped that a substantial in- for the competitions.
365
HEADQUARTER NOTES
Training Courses.-The following Training Courses, to take place at St. John House, have been arranged for the first quarter of 1949.
January 15.-County Secretaries' 'Veekend Course (Saturday midday to Sunday tea-time).
February 4.-County Superintendents' and County Off'icers' (N) Day Conference.
Februa1'Y 5.-Competition Training Day for Competition Secretaries.
February 6.-Competition Training Day for Surgeons and Nursing Officers.
l1iarch 5- 6.-County /Corps/Divisional Publicity Officers' Course.
The Annual Conference for all Officers of the Brigade will take place at Ashridge, April 1 to 4.
Draft programmes for all courses ""ill be circulated to Counties as soon as available.
necessary to carry out the work. He expressed thanks to his Area staff (he was very proud of them), to the Area Social Committee, and to all members of the Area for their continued support.
Miss S. B. Say (secretary of the Social Committee) submitted It The Guests" in a charming speech, to which Mrs. ShawSmith, wife of the County Surgeon, replied in the absence of 1\1rs. G. P. Hart.
Following the repast, games and dances were enjoyed. Special praise must be given to District Officer Collins, the hardworking toastmaster and master of ceremonies.
East Barnet.-Ambulance and Nursin a Divisions , together with representatives of neighbouring Divisions, enjoyed a talk on The Order of St. John throughout the Ages, given by the Rev. Christopher ?uperintendent C. 'V. Bowyer, m mtroducmg the speaker, said he was a No.1 (PRINCE OF WALES'S) DISTRICT Chaplain of the Order, and mentioned the fact that his family had been connected Northern Area.-The first annual dinner with the Order for many generations. The and social, held on November 27, proved lecturer traced the evolution of the Order a most enjoyable function. Although thick from the time of the first Crusade and fog shrouded the district a good number of gave lantern illustrations from his members supported the Area Social extremely comprehensive collection of Committee. slides. Assistant Commissioner G. P. Hart
After the Loyal Toast, 1\1r. G. E. Craft thanked the Rev. Perowne and expressed (Editor of The Gazette) in the unavoidable the that it might be possible for him absence of Deputy Commissioner Sir to gIve an even more detailed talk in the George Abbiss, proposed It The Northern near future.
Area ". He congratulated the Area on its Temple Nursing Divisi o n.-Another work and mentioned especially the milestone in the Division's history was Palmers Green Nursing Division which passed recently when members met to say had gained second place in the National It Goodbye" to Div. Surgeon Helen Moss. Perrott Competition on the first time of The occasion was a social event and entering a competition. He also referred present members were happy to welcome to the friendly atmosphere which prevailed old officers and members. President Miss at all orthern Area functions. Edmunds ably expressed the sentiments Assistant Commissioner G. P. Hart of all present when she thanked Dr. Moss replied. He was glad that the Area Social for long and loyal service, particularly in Committee had commenced an annual the past few years when only her fine dinner as such social functions were most courage over ill-health had enabled her to The had had a good year, continue her regular talks to the Division. and m competItIons had been most "!?r. . Moss was asked to accept a certain The. Palmers Green Nursing pIece of paper" and to turn it into DIVIsIOn had gamed second place in the something she would wish to have for her Perrott Shield, a member of the vVatford pleasure or use, and to remind her of the ursing Division had gained the individual love ar:d best wishes of old friends. Dr. championship of the District, the High- Moss,.m her reply, recalled how in 19 17 bury Aml:mlance Cadets had gained second her fnend, Miss Thelka Bowser, asked her place, bemg beaten by one mark, in the t h I f Cadet National Finals. In addition the o. e p orm a new Division of the Southgate . ursing Cadets had to be called Temple Nursing fourth place m the Cadet National Finals. DIVIsIOn, and how she had been attached He hoped that Ambulance Divisions would to the l?ivision for 31 years. It grieved her take a greater interest in competition work to but she had many happy d d to take with her into her an en eavour to gain the Championship retIrement. award. The call for St. John service was L T R (C' ) greater than ever, and new members were N ' .' 'D' Am h u la n cc No. 156 ursmg IVIS l ons, together wIth members 366
of the City Area Branch of the Post Office Ambulance Centre, and successful candidates of the Departmental Training Scheme were presented with their awards by Mr. H. M. Turner (Telephone Manager) on November 8. Mr. Turner expressed his gratification on the number of awards (94 in all) to be awarded. At the conclusion of the presentations a lecture was given by 1\1r. Patrick Clarkson, F.R.C.S., of Guy's Hospital, on the It Review of Modern Reparatoryand Plastic Surgical Methods .. with screen illustrations. Dr. C. G. Roberts (Treasury Medical Advisor to the Post Office) expressed thanks to the speaker. Amb. Officer A. Leng expressed thanks to those who had assisted in providing tea.
Haggerst o n Am hulan ce Di vis ion held their annual dance in the Shoreditch Town Hall, where the Mayor and Mayoress (Alderman F. James and Mrs. James), District Officer Dunford, District Officer McBride were among the visitors. The Haggerston Division is now in its fiftyninth year, and Supt. A. E. Jaggers has been a member of the Division for 36 years.
Berm ond sey -The first annual dinner of the Bermondsey Division proved a great success. Div. Surgeon D. D. Towle proposed the" Loyal Toast" after which Supt. A. E. Studd proposed "The Brigade ", to which Commissioner A. C. White Knox replied. He spoke of the long association with the Division, also of the new Brigade Training Centre which had just been opened. District Officer P. B. Wickens replied on behalf of the visitors to a toast submitted by Amb. Ofncer H. E. Chaplin . LA NCA SHIRE DISTRICT
Arge nta Cup Comp e tition.-After being m abeyance during the war the competition was revived at Preston Headquarters on November 6 when eleven ambulance teams competed. Dr. Thorsley judged the
team test, Dr. Margaret Adam the individual, and Asst. Commissioner Gastall the uniforms. Commissioner Major BurtHamilton announced the result- 1st, Liverpool North; 2nd, Blackburn; 3rd, Liverpool Exchange. President Herbert Calvert (Preston Corps) presented the trophy and prizes.
OIdham.-The annual dinner of the officers of the Oldham Corps was held at Mumps, Corps Supt. Capt. Buckley presiding. The guests included the Deputy Mayor of Oldham and Mrs. Marshall, the Chairman of the Failsworth U.D.C. and Mrs. Howard, the Town Clerk of Oldham, and the Clerk to the Failsworth Council. Mr. Haines (Town Clerk) proposed the toast of "The Order of St. John", to which District Officer Halbert responded, and Corps Supt. Kay toasted the" County Borough of Oldham and the Urban District of Failsworth ", which was responded to by Alderman Marshall and Councillor Howard.
E q u it a bl e Di vision.- Vice-president H. Cass recently presided at a meeting of the Oldham Equitable Division, when Mr. "V. Schofield (Chief Constable and Corps President) unveiled a Jubilee Certificate presented to the Division. District Officer Halbert presented the ribbon of Serving Brother to Supt. VV. Whelan, while Corps Supt. Capt. Buckley presented warrants of appointment to Supt. Whelan, Amb. Officer Kent, Cadet Supt. W. Ward, and Cadet Officer F. Taylor.
Live rpool. -A delightful evening was spent on November 20, the occasion being the annual dinner and dance of the Liverpool Corps Officers' Mess, under the Presidency of District Officer W. E. Searl and attended by some 2 5 0 members and guests. After the Loyal Toast, Asst. Commissioner Col. Simpson proposed "The Order of St. John", to which Commissioner Major Burt Hamilton replied. "The Guests," proposed by
Some members of the L.T.R. (City) Ambulance and No. 156 Nursing Divisions at a r ecent presentation of awards.
(P hoto by courtesy of H.M. P ostma ster Gene,.al.)
County Surgeon McAlpine, was responded to in happy vein by Mr. Martin, Chief Constable of the City, who paid tribute to the admirable public service given by the Corps.
COUNTY OF BERKSHIRE
Reading. -On ovember 20 a first aid competition was held by the Association for the " George \Villiam Palmer Cup". The winners were Great \Vestern Team No.1, captained by V. O. Cripps (G.W. Brigade Division), the runners-up being Reading Town " A " Division, captained by D. ]. Davies. The Pairs Test was won by G. T. Davies and]. Emmons, of the winning team. County Commissioner C. A. Poole presented the cup and individual prizes, and also presented President Lt.-Com. W. l\Iorrissey (Reading Corps) with his badge of office. The judges were Div. Surgeons C. A. Boucher, J. Hazleton, and 'V. Tait. During one of the tests which consisted of treating a child supposed to have fallen out of a window, the examining doctor was called to a genuine accident of a child who had fallen from a window. Among those present were the Mayoress of Reading (Mrs. Kersley) and l\Ir. O. 'Vellbe love, recently appointed Vice-President of the Reading Corps, who had to leave before his Badge of Office could be presented.
Hungerford.-:'IIembers of the Hungerford Ambulance Division recently held a ses ion of the Blood Transfusion Service at which 49 people gave their blood, including some new volunteers.
COUNTY OF BEDFORD
Luton.-County Commissioner Capt. W. C. Knight, accompanied by County Secretary E. H. Stonebanks and County Officer 'V. H. 'Veatherhead, inspected the George Kent's Division on Xovember 10. Re complimented the members on their smartness and effIciency.
Pte. Collier, on behalf of :vIrs. Collier and himself, asked the Commissioner to accept two cups to be competed for by Ambulance and Nursing Cadets of the Luton Corps. Capt. Knight, after thanking Pte. and :'IIrs. Collier for their generosity, passed the cups to Corps Supt. A. F. Smart.
In view were trophies recently gained by members of the Division: the Industrial Safety First Association Shield, the John Burgoyne Trophy (Corps the Slater Cup (Corps IndIVIdual ChamplOnship).
COUNTY OF BIRMINGHAM
County Surgeon D. J. Nicol is the chairman, the members being County Secretary Mrs. Frew, Corps Surgeons Fraser Brown, Vollam, and Shilvock, with an experienced officer from each Adult and Cadet Corps. Officers' Dance.-The first annual dance, held at the Botanical Gardens, Edgbaston, was attended by A/Commissioner Ballard, the County Staff, and nearly 300 officers and friends. The organizers of this dignified and enjoyable function were Corps Supt. l\Iiss E. :M. Rogers and Supt. Victor Gardiner.
Priory Church Fund.-County Supt. l\Irs. P. H. Lee opened a colourful "Christmas Bazaar" at Headquarters, organized by Nursing" A " Corps (Corps Supt. Miss L. Dedicoatl, which raised the sum of { 135; while Nursing" B " Corps (Corps Supt. Miss E. M. Rogers) had Mrs. John Cross to open both their gay Bring and Buy Sale, which realized £ 132, and a Miniature Theatre performance of Pirates of Penzance at Headquarters for the same cause.
Trihute.-" \Ve are lucky," said Amb. Officer l\hs. Holmes (Officer-in-Charge, G.E.C. Witton Division), "to be able to meet in the \Vorks Surgery and to use the equipment there for our practical work." Other firms might well copy this excellent practice.
COUNTY OF BUCKINGHAM
Amersham.-The Nursing Division held their sixth anniversary party in the new Ambulance Station. Films of the opening of the Ambulance Station by the Countess Mountbatten of Burma and of the Victory Parade in London were shown by Mr. Alliott. A beautiful birthday cake was made by Amb. Sister Miss Smith.
Beacons6eld.-The annual Armistice Dance organized by the Ambulance Division, at the Burnham Hall, was a most successful function.
Rishorough.-An enjoyable socIal, arranged by the Ambulance and Nursing Divisions, was held at the Ambulance Headquarters. Guests, numbering about 100, were welcomed by County Ofiicer Day and Mrs. Dav. Supt. Mrs. Bower received from Dr. Conoley a Bar to her Service Medal.
COUNTY OF GUERNSEY
G:uernsey Northern Nursing Division the distinction of being the first WlOners of a handsome silver cup presented by Dr. Whiteside Robertson for annual competition. The judges were County Surgeon O. Bostock (individual), Dr. J. Forward is the city's motto, and the Raper (first aid), and Matron Yeaman new Competitions Sub-Committee, ap- (home County President Mrs. proved by A/Commissioner \'Y. E. Ballard, A. Sherw1l1 (wife of the Bailiff of Guernsey) hope to achieve great things in 1949 presented the trophy, also silver medals to , 368
each member of the team. Those present incl uded County Commissioner Dr. W. B. Fox and County Ofiicer Mrs. A. Hickey. It is of interest to note that whilst on the ir way to the competition two members of the winning team were called upon to rende r assistance to a seriously injured moto r cyclist, who was rushed to England by aeroplane for further treatment.
COUNTY OF ISLE OF WIGHT
Ryde.-First aid awards to members of the Ryde Ambulance and Isle of Wight Nu rsing Divisions were presented by the :Mayor of Ryde (Councillor S. R. Bird) on November 11. County Commissioner Dr. F. R. B. H. Kennedy presided and xte nded a hearty welcome to the Mayor and Mayoress. He presented warrants of appo intment to Supt. A. Maybury, Amb. Office rs']' J oliffe, F. Bartram, Sergeants . A Bushell and J. Sparshott. Dr. Kennedy paid tribute to Supt. Maybury on his first aid efficiency. He had ·proved himself a good leader, which was borne out by his outstanding success in competitions. He had trained the Island Police team and \\as captain of that team when it had won the Lord Mottistone and the Countess of Mo untbatten Cup in the Hampshire Cons tabulary Competitions on the previous Mo untbatten Cup in the Hampshire Consta bulary Competitions on the previous Saturday. Pte. A. Large had tied for first place in the Individual Police Championsh ip of the same Force.
Supt. Maybury expressed thanks to the Mayor and Mayoress for their presence. The Mayoress presented Amb. Sisters J. Hall and J Nash with an engraved powder compact as an appreciation from the Ryde Ambulance Division for the valuab le assistance given to them.
COUNTY OF KENT
Dartford.-A combined cups presentation of the Ambulance, Nursing, and Ambu lance and Nursing Cadet Divisions was recently held at which the Mayor and
Group photograph taken at the annual G.E.C. Competitions held at Magnet Club, Birmingham.
of Dartford, President A. Webb (Ambulance), President Mrs. A. Burdis (Nursing), Asst. County Supt. Miss May, County Officer W. Hancox, Records Officer Mrs. May, County Cadet Officer Miss L. Curzon Smith, Div. Surgeons T. S. Cochrane and D. M. Thompsom were among those present. Before the cups were presented the Superintendent of each Division gave a survey of the year's work. The recipients were :-
A mbulance.-Corporal Everett gained one cup with Corporal Cooke as runner-up; Pte. AlIson gained the second cup with Pte. Henderson as runner-up.
Nursing.-A/S. Gilbert gained first place with A/S. Walter as runner-up.
Cadet Ambulance.- l st, John Stratten ; 2nd, Maurice ·Waller.
Cadet Nursing.-Special Cup was won by Wendy Smith; Pat Rossiter gained first place, and Cora Wheeler the runnersup place, whilst Joyce Bugg was the best Junior.
Of special interest was the presentation of Grand Prior Cadet Badges to Beryl Holister, Dorothy Wheeler, Anne Hills, and Gillian Gradwick; the first two . having now passed into the Senior Division. Anne Rills has taken up fulltime hospital work.
COUNTY OF NORFOLK
Winfarthing.-A meeting of newlyformed unit was held on November 8, when President S. J. Cole presided. County Commissioner Sir Thomas Cook congratulated the members on the strides made and expressed thanks to Supt. ]. A. Munford for his work.
Watton.-At the first meeting of the Management Committee of the St. John Ambulance Hall, Cadet Corps Supt. H. F. Cocker was elected chairman, with Mr. H. J. Rump as Hon. Secretary.
COUNTY OF SOMERSET
Bath.-On November 9 the Medical Officer of Health gave an interesting talk on the National Health Service Act.
The annual Bring and Bu\' Sale was held on 1 ovember 20, and 'opened by JUrs. T. Fry. Asst. Commissioner Dr. Beath, County Officers Miss St. Le and .Mrs. Sehvyn, County urslllg Officer MISS Leedham Fuller and President Mrs. Hugh N"icholson 'were among those present.
On November 23 members had the opportunity of seeing a most interestinO' film, "Accident Service," which shown at Headquarters.
Taunton.-Div. Surgeon \V. J. Collins, who has recently been Admitted a Serving Brother of the Order, has been Divisional Surgeon to the Taunton Division since its inception in 1941.
The Taunton Division has arranO'ed a fu.rther series of old-time danceso this Winter, and it is hoped that they will prove as popular as those of the previous season.
COUNTY OF SUFF OLK
competed for by DIVlslOns of the Ipswich Nursing Corps have been presented to the winners by Corps President Miss E. \Y. Appleton.
In the Officers' Cup Competition, Mrs. Garrod, of the Air Duties Division, gained place and also took the replica which IS to be presented each year by Miss M. D. Groom, late Student Division Superintende.nt. The Members' Cup was tied for by 1\:11ss and :.\Iiss Perks, both of the Moka DIVlsion.
The Individual Challenge Cup, presented by .Mr. Catton, was won by l\lrs. Cook; whIlst III the Moka Division the silver salver, presented by County Nursing Officer. Miss Miller, County Ofncer Miss Baldwlll, and County Cadet Officer Miss Botwood, was won by Miss Bonner.
formed in 1928, this was the first function of its kind. Since the inauguration of the National Health Service Act, continued Capt. Ellis, the mileage of the motor ambulances had increased from an average of 300 miles to 700 miles per month.
Mr. A. L. Roberts (Asst. Ambulance Officer, S.C.C.), Councillor W. Soan, and Mrs. Soan were among the guests present.
COUNTY OF SUSSEX
Rye Nursing Division is carrying out exceptionally fine work with the ambulance services. Members are almost entirely responsible for the manning of two of the ambulances during the day, and five members are on duty from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. In addition, four or five underpart-time service. During the past lllne months personnel have handled 287 calls (including accidents) and covered mi les. It is the only ambulance III where the Nursing Dn lslon supplIes both drivers and attendants, and it is. thought quite likely that there are few, If any, Nursing Divisions which can claim such a record.
COUNTY OF W ORC ESTE R and District Corps has now completed Its annual competitions for 1948 with the following results :-
M.E.C. and Parker Trophies (AmbuDivisions).-lst, Sedgley; 2nd, TlVldale. Dr. VV. H. Shilvock and Corps Officer F. Russell were the judges. Murdock and Ward Trophies (Junior Cadets) .-Both trophies were won by two from the M.E.C. Nursing Cadet Plvlslon. Cadet Supt. L. B. Foster was Judge.
Alfred Chatwin Trophy (Senior Cadets).
-M.E.C. and Ocker Hill Nursing Cadets
COUNTY OF SURREY Dr. .Alex King and Supt. J. Clark A the Judges. recrUltmg appeal was held in Surrey Th G and Sir Otto Lund (Deputy Chief e Baker Rose Bowl (Individual accompanied by Com- Nursmg Divisions).-lst, A/S. J. mlsslOner W. G. Pape, County President Wllkmson 2nd, A/S. Bagley Countess Lindsay, County Supt. Mrs. RegIS). ThIS competition conHeald, and County Officer Mrs Briggs sisted chieft.y of the use of the roller made a tour of several Surrey Divisions' an? was judged by Dr. C. Earnest appeals for more recruits Simpson Smith. made to members of the general public
The Murdoch Hamilton Trophy (Indiviand for adults and children to take dual tests, Ambulance Divisions) -1st course of first aid instruction. Cadet Supt. A. Courtman' 2nd Pte W' Centres of inspection included the \Voodhall, both from Tividaie . D . Woodham Co-operative Hall, the Airscrew M. C. H. McCormack was the judge. r. and the Cobham and Hersham The. Heathcock lWemorial and Kemp Later, Finnart House was Nursing, and Senior Vlsited: At each place demonstrations .a e:s).-lst, Tlvldale Ambulance Diviwere gIven by Brigade personnel. 2nd, M.E.C. Nursing Division. The and Nursing were Dr. A. King and Dr. R. DNIVlsions held a dinner and dance on T 20, at which Asst Com- he of the M.E.C. Tro h mlSSlOner Capt. P. H. Ellis referred to the Will represent the Corps in P ah fact that although the Divisions had been 1 and County competitions du rin g 370
WEST RI DI NG OF YO R KSHI R E
At the Area Conference, held at Pudsey, on October 23, an Ambulance Officer's hat \\c:l.S taken from the cloakroom by mistake. W ill the officer who has the wrong hat co mmunicate with Amb. Officer H. Acl dinell, 91 Temple Street, Castleford, Yorks.
Brighouse Cor ps.-A presentation was rec ently made to Mr. J. Brockless (S uperintendent of the Torth Divi ion) on be ing placed on the Brigade Reserve after co mpleting 45 years' active service.
Bradford Cor ps.-A parade of 260 offI cers, men, and women and also Cadets at tended the annual church parade, the se rvice being taken by the Rev. Maurice B arnett. ' Corps Surgeon R. Chester read the lessons. . Asst. Commissioner W. . and County Officer R. H. Baker were among those present.
Dewshury and Di s t ric t Cor ps -The N ursing Division held a whist drive and da nce in aid of the Priory Church RebuIlding Fund.
Huddersfie ld Cor ps -At a meeting of the officers, Asst. Commissioner H. H arrison presented a warrant of appointme nt to Corps Surgeon and Superintende nt D. F. Barrett. Dr. Barrett had pre viously served as Surgeon and Superinte ndent of the Central Ambulance Division. \Varrant of appointment was also . p resented to Cadet Ofncer Miss 'Whiteley, had previously served as a Sergeant 10 the Lepton ursing Cadet Division.
On November 18, members of the Nursing Division made a presentahon to retiring officer Miss Smithers in a ppreciation and recognition of her s ervices to the Brigade over a period of 30 years. Amb. Officer Mrs. Greenfield made the presentation, and Asst. Commissioner H. Harrison and Supt. Miss
Doris Cheetham added their appreciation of Miss Smithers' excellent work. Sp eD Va ll ey Corp s.-Four teams competed for the Blackburn Cup Competition on November 6, Gomersal No.2 being the winners. Corps Supt. H. Horne acted as judge in the absence, through illness, of the doctor. Asst. Commissioner H . Harrison presided at the presentation ceremony, Councillor W. H. Cooper (Chairman, Spen Borough District Council) presenting the cup. He said they were proud of the men, women, and cadets in Spen Valley who were prepared to give up so much of their time for such a good cause. He also expressed thanks to Mr. Blackburn, donor of the cup.
NOR TH RID ING OF YORK SHIRE
Sca r ho r ()u gh.-The Nursing Division raised £46 for their funds by a sale of work, which was opened by County Supt. Mrs. C. E. Burton, who referred to the Brigade as the" silent Brigade". Mrs. Burton was introduced by Supt. Miss M . Moorhouse and thanked by District Officer G. C. Green.
COMPETITIONS AT GOSPORT
The Gosport and Fareham Centre of the S.J.A.A. held a first aid competition on October 10, when Alverstoke Ambulance Division gained the championship trophy which is competed for annually. Fareham Ambulance Division were runners-up. County Surgeon L. M. Maybury, Divisional Surgeon M. R. Behrendt, Dr. H. M. VVeir, and Asst. Commissioner C. J. Francis were the judges. Surgeon Rear-Admiral T. A. :Srown Shaw (Chairman of the Cenve) llltroduced the Deputy Mayor, Alderman J. R. Gregson, who presented the cup and medals
Presentation of the new am b ul ance of the Bridgwater Divisions
RAILWAY AMBULANCE NEWS
COMPETITION DATES
Int er-Rai l way Competition (men and women).-May 20, 1949, at the Central Hall, \iVestminster, London.
London Midland Regi on.-Final competition at Manchester, May 6. ·
North Eastern Region.-Final competition for \\'harton Shield will be held at Hull on May 7. Ladies Competition.::YIarch 19, at York.
Southern Region.-Final competition, April 29.
W
estern Region.-Final competition, May 3.
SOUTHERN REGION
Exeter.-A most instructive and inweek-end training course for dlstnct and class secretaries was held at Exeter on November 13 and 14, when some 100 enthusiastic first aiders were present The course opened with the mtroductIon of Mr. O. Cromwell (Chief Officer for Labour and Establishment) by NIr. F. A. Trott. Mr. Cromwell spoke of the benefit derived from such conferences, and welcomed not only the delegates, but also representatives of other Regions. He also referred to the presence of the Regional Medical Officer, Dr. L. J. Haydon.
The first talk was given by Dr. G. O. (London Brigade), who took for hIS su bject "The Principles of Instruc"'. He referred to the best ways of Impartmg and instructing classes, and to the mannerisms of certain speakers.
Dr. Taylor-Young (County Surgeon, S.J. A:B )" followed, with "Competition ,and it was apparent from the dISCU SSIOn which followed that there were present some very keen and enthusiastic competItors.
Dr. B. A. R. Pitt (Brighton) gave a short talk on "Quiz Training", and then demonstrated (with two teams) how best to arrange and carry out an evening's qUIz competition.
Saturday evening was given over to an excellent smoking concert.
Sunday morning session opened with a short service conducted by the Rev T R Owen (Barnstaple).
" Dr. L. J. Haydon then gave a talk on Care of First . Aid Equipment and of Mmor Injuries ". After gomg mto the matter of stores and the best methods of making equipment available for immediate use, Dr. Haydon the. importance of the attention to mmor injuries. So often such were given scant attention, that senous consequences later arose.
" Modern Tendency in First Aid" was the title of the talk given by Dr. M. M. Scott (member of the Textbook Revision Committee), who in a very short space of time gave those present much food for thought.
Mr. F. A. Trott (Regional Ambulance Secretary) was in charge of the next session, which dealt with Faking Competitions and Acting Competitions. Delegates were shown how easy it was to fake injuries, and the correct material required. They were also instructed in the art of acting the role of patients.
The last talk was that given by Mr. C. Greenwood (Centre Secretary, Eastern Region) on " The Order of St. John ".
Mr. O. Cromwell, who had supported the Course throughout, then summed up the two days proceedings: expressing thanks to those who had contributed to its success.
We should like to add our praise to Mr. F. A. Trott and members of his staff for the most excellent arrangements. Never a dull moment, correct time keeping, and interesting talks were of the highest that could be procured.
Inter-Works CompetitIon between Brighton and Lancing \iVorks for the "Marsh Cup" was held at Brighton, where Dr. H. Rosenberg Dr. J. A. Richardson were judges. Bnghton "A" gained first place with L2:ncing "A" runners-up. The trophy and pnzes were presented by Mrs. Granshaw who was accompanied by Mr. (Brighton Works Manager), Mr. F. Illston Manager), Dr. B. A. R. PItt (Dlv. Medical Officer) Mr. F. A. Trott (Regional Secretary), Mr. Goddard (District Ambulance Secretary), and Mrs. Goddard.
Hove.-Mr. F. A. Trott recently presented awards to members of the Hove Class. Dr. J. A. Richardson and Mr L (Cl;:ss Secretary), were WIth. gIfts In appreciation of their valuable servIces. Mr. C. F. Taylor (Class Chairman) presided.
WESTERN REGION
!>- presentation of long service awards g<l:me? by members of the staff in the BlTIDIngham Division was held in the Town Hall: Leamington. Mr. A. V. R. Brown (D1V. Superintendent) presided a.nd was supported by the Mayor, Purcell, Mr. J. A. Warren-King (Dlstnct Goods Manager), Mr. V. J. H (Di:r. Loco. Supt.), Mr. R. F. Wlls?n (Dlv. Engineer), Mr. P. Anstey Secretary), Mr. J. A. Martm (ASSIstant Secretary) and Mr 372 ,.
E. J. Hancock (Div. Ambulance Secretary) , and other railway officials, also l\la jor E. S. Phillips (County Commiss ioner, S.J.A.B.). The awards were pres ented by Mr. R. Burgoyne (Regional Staff Offtcer) and Mrs. Burgoyne; while Mr. A. H. Swadling presented an illum Inated address to Dr. H. Mason in reco gnition of the 50 years' service to the rai lway movement in Leamington.
The Rt. Hon. Anthony Eden was prese nt for a short time, and spoke in ap preciation of the large amount of vo luntary service rendered by members of the first aid movement, and stated we needed more of the spirit of voluntary service, more toleration, and more of the of humour.
Mr. Burgoyne made an appeal for re n e wed activity in bringing ambulance classes and facilities to the notice of all me mbers of the staff who had not taken advantage of them, particularly the yo unger element.
Bridgwater.-Awards for service aggregating 375 years, including a 45 year go ld bar to Mr. Lewis Robinson, were presented by Mr. A. W. H. Christison (Loco. Supt., Newton Abbot) on ovember 17, when the first distribution of awards to members of the St. John A mbulance Association, Bridgwater Class. Mr. P. C. Bird, class secretary, des cribed the occasion as a record one for t he station, but deplored the lack of support given by members of the staff. '\1r. R. A. Newson (Divisional Secretary), ·sa id they had to fight the tendency to a pathy, and enrol more members by personal contact. Mr. Christison pointed out that they could not rely on the old men for ever, and urged them to impress on younger members of the staff to take part. This was supported by Station Master J. Ball and Goods Manager L. E. \\'reford.
OBITUARY
officer for many years. He joined the Redruth Division in 1903, transferring to Bodmin in 1915 where he formed the Division, becoming its first Superintendendent. He was instrumental in raising funds for an Ambulance Headquarters there. In 1929 he was appointed Assistant County Commissioner, which appointment he held until his death. He was an Officer of the Order; and during the last war he acted as First Aid Command an t for the Casualty Sel'vices At the funeral service nearly every Division in the County was represented.
Assistant Commissioner W. Maxwell Reekie, O.B.E., K.St.J., J.P., of Didsbury, Manchester, whose remains were laid to rest on November 20. Active until a few days prior to his death, he will be ,sadly missed in many spheres in ManchesterBrigade, Art, Literature, Commerce, and Bench. His work for the Order and Brigade, until advancing years curbed, to a certain extent, his activities, was of outstanding merit. An artist of no mean ability, his pictures were exhibited on many occasions and he was particularly fond of portraying the wild scenery of his beloved Western Isles. To the bereaved widow and daughter (District Officer Dr. Marian Reekie) we express our deepest sympathy.
Captain George Gerhold, who passed away on October 26. He joined the Post Office Ambulance Centre in February, 1904, and in 1905 was appointed Branch Secretary at Mount Pleasant Post Office. In 1907 he became Assistant General Secretary and a year later General Secretary of the Centre. He worked hard, encouraging first men and then women to take up the work, and by 1914 the active membership had increased to 660 members. In 1911 he organized the No. 143 (London 19) V.A.D. being Commandant in 1913, in which year he gave time and thought to the formation of the No. 28 (Civil Service) Nursing Division. In 1912 he joined the No. 58 Division, being appointed We regret to announce the death of the Superintendent in 1920. In 1923 he following :- formed the London Post Office Corps of Captain W. H. Pallett, R.A.M.C., on the Brigade and appointed Corps SuperinOctober 16. He was for many years a tendent. He was transferred to District prominent figure in judging competitions Headquarters as Public Duty Officer in for the Brigade, the Police, and the 1923, a position held until 1927, when the Railways. Dr. Pallett joined the Brigade strain of these activities caused anxiety in 1915 as Corps Surgeon and in 1928 was from a health standpoint. He finished as promoted to District Officer (Northumber- he began-concentrating on P.O.A.C. land and Durham), an appointment he work, becoming chairman of the Centre held until his resignation in 1936. Dr. in 1934. He was a Commander of the Pallett was admitted an Offtcer of the Order and received the Vellum Vote of Order in 1945. Thanks for his work in the 1926 General Assistant Commissioner W. W. John- Strike and a Special Vote of Thanks in ston, on October 20. The sudden death 1934. By his death, at the age of 74, the of Mr. Johnston came as a shock to all St. John movement has lost a good worker members of the Brigade in Cornwall, where and one who will be missed by his many he had been a most highly respected late colleagues.
373
Headquarters: Priory House, 4 Cathedral Road, Cardiff
GENERAL INTEREST
Welsh Railways Competition.-The "Harry \"lebb " cup, open to teams of men employed on the railways in ""Yales was competed for at the City Hall, Cardiff, on ovember 18. The contests were well staged and a large gathering of spectators included the Centre Secretary, Mr. P. Anstey, and Mr. J. A. Martin (\;';"estern Region) and other British Railway Representatives from Newport, Chester, Cardiff, Swansea, and Abergavenny.
Dr. A. M. Robertson and Dr. R. V. C. Richards, both Corps Surgeons, judged the Individual Practical parts, Col. J. Powell Jenkins, Assistant County Surgeon, judging the Team Test which took the form of an incident in a station buffet.
The Hon. John H. Bruce, J.p., D.L., Principal Secretary and Commissioner for \Vales, presided at the presentation ceremony, at which the Brigade Secretary (1\lr. W. Mabon Abraham) announced the awards, as under :-
Newport High Street (Western Region), 21 7 YstalJ.'fera (London l\Iidland Region), CardIff Docks (Western Region). 197 1, Ruabon (Western Region), 170, Abergavenny Engineers (London Midland Region), 156, Mold Junction Loco. (London Midland Region). 152k.
The Cup and prizes were presented to the members of the first three teams by the Lord 1\Iayor of Cardiff (Alderman R: G: Robinson), who congratulated the \\ InI:l1ng teams on their high standard of efficIency. and commended all competitors on the hIgh sense of service and responsibility which prompted them to devote their time and interest t.o the study and practice of First Aid. The vote of thanks to the Mayor. was proposed by Mr. H. H. SWIft, RaIlway Executive and seconded by Mr. A. E. H. Brown, Chief Docks Manager, Cardiff.
First Aid in Mines.-The revision of the " First Aid in Coal Mines" was cc: rned at a meeting of the Fu:st AId III Mmes Committee held at Pnory House on November 17, when Professor J. Sinclair was appointed Chairman, in place of Mr. F. Llewellin J aco? who. had resigned the chairmanship o.n h!-s rehrement from active participahon III the management of mines. A first draft of. revision, prepared by Dr. G. S. PhIlbps and Dr. T. ,"V. David, was placed before the Committee, which set up a Revision Sub-Committee to give
close consideration to various points arising.
The Committee received a report on the conclusion of the second course of Special Lectures organized by the Priory for colliery first aid personnel. A unanimous desire was expressed for the continuation of similar lectures; and the Priory was asked to arrange for lectures at Cardiff and Neath at the opening and closing of the series, while the First Aid Area Officers of the South Western Division, N.C.B., would be arranging those in the respective areas.
First Aid Instruction for Prison Inmates.
-At the conclusion of a further First Aid course given at H.M. Prison, Cardiff, the Governor, Colonel Vi. H. Beak, indicated his desire to arrange for the certificates gained to be presented to the successful in the presence of a gathering of male mmates. Mr. H. ]. Peacock, Assistant Director of Transport, undertook to make the presentation on November 24 when he took the opportunity of thanking Dr. Gulliford, who has given five courses of lectures at the Prison despite the heavy demands of his practice, and Ambulance Officer T. L. Dayment, who has acted as Instructor at the Prison Classes during the past ten years. Talks on First Aid and Home Nursing have been given by Nursing Officers of the Brigade during the past twenty years to the female inmates, who for reasons qualify for exammatIon; and tnbute was paid to Mrs. C. E. Thomas (Lady Corps Secretary) and 1\1iss I. E. Woodward (Lady Div. S.upt.), who were present at the presentatIon, for the unfailing regularity of their weekly visits. The attendance of the prisoners at first aid classes is voluntary· and Mr. Peacock illustrated the value of first aid knowledge by examples drawn from the experiences of former students of prison classes.
CENTRE REPORTS
CARDIGANS HIRE
Aberystwyth Nursing and Cadet Members assembled at the Town Hall on November 10 for inspection by the Hon. John H. Bruce (Principal Secretary and for Wales), who was accompallled by the Hon. Mrs. Bruce (Assistant Lady Superintendent for Wales). The Commissioner for Cardiganshire, Brigadier-General L. P. Evans V.C., presided and referred with pride
t 11 services the Division was rendering. Lady Div. Supt . Mrs. C. 1\1. Lewis-Evans, han ded a bouquet to Mrs. Bruce, who addressed the gathering and presented effic iency certificates. Other Officers prese nt included Mrs. Eirlys Morgan, ; frs E. F. DavIes, Mrs. D. L. Evans, MISS Hauser, and Miss A. Morgan. The ,\ he rystwyth ur ing Cadets were under the command of 1\1iss ]. L. C. \Vbeatley and Llanbadarn Cadets were in charge of Mrs J. Hughes. Lembers of the Aberystwvt h Ambulance Division were among tll'" gathering of close on 100 persons. The Hon. John H. Bruce explained the part of the voluntary organization in relation to the ational Health Service Act ; emphasizing the need for greater num bers of first aid volunteers.
FLINTS HIRE
At the finals of the Lord Gladstone Cup Co mpetition, held recently at Holywell Gra mmar School, Buckley Ambulance Division again won the Cup, the runnersup being a team from John Summers (Sb otton) Ambulance Division. The judg es were County Surgeon J. B. Do bson, and Corps Surgeon G. H. Collier. Re freshments were kindly provided by the Officers and members of Holywell Nu rsing Division, who with others responsible for the arrangements were thanked by Commissioner Dr. J. Wells. The Co mpetition Secretary, Corps Supt. C. H. She nton was specially complimented upon the work done by he and his fellow Corps Officers. Mrs. Schwarz, ursing Divisio nal Vice-President presided and presenle d the Cup to the winning team.
Mrs. Waterhouse paid high tribute to the work of St. John in the County, and to the voluntary spirit upon which the movement is built.
Members of Rhuddlan Nursing Division heard with particu lar regret of the passing of Britain's oldest inhabitant, Miss Isabella Shepherd, who was born in the reign of King William IV and reputed to be 115 years of age, having happy memories of ministering to Miss Shepherd in the course of their duties at Bodrhyddan Hall Emergency Hospital to which the deceased was evacuated during the War. Officers and Members of Rhyl Ambulance and Nursing Divisions have been thanked by the Town Council for the First Aid duties undertaken by the Divisions during the summer season. Many visitors to this popular seaside resort have had reason to feel gratitude for services rendered by Brigade personnel in voluntary attendance.
The Home Service Ambulance cars at Rhyl and Prestatyn have rendered excellent service to residents and visitors during the year. Long journeys have been undertaken by the volunteers of the Brigade, numerous expressions being received from patIents and authorities.
Mr. Geoffrey Summers presented awards to members of the John Summers Division at the annual dinner at Connah's Quay, where County Officer Mr. H. Brooke Freeman presided and the speakers included the Chief Constable of Flintshire, Mr. Fenlli Roberts and Corps Supt. C. H. Shenton, Flint.
Div. Supt John Evans reported that during the year the division had dealt with 168 cases, affecting 228 patients, including twe lve road accidents.
GLAMORGAN
A pleasing presentation took place at t h e meeting of Corps and Divisional Officers held at the Town Hall, Flint, on • ovember 28, when representatives of t he Flint Voluntary Ambulance Association presented a cheque to the Flint Barry County Area.-" Aeroplane Ambulance Division. Interesting methods Accident Aid" is a subject of partIcular of raising funds were recited, including the appeal to First Aid Personnel in this parading of the ancient Borough by County Area; and Cadets in Barry incollectors with a barrow, collecting scrap variably obtain proficiency badges in this iron and material, for re-sale-the pur- subject. The following letter to chase of Flint ambulance and the presen- Private E. Foley, Barry Dock DIvISIOn, tation of the cheque that day being the out- is welcome evidence of the va lu e of this come of those early efforts. Corps Surgeon training from the Royal Air Force Station, J. Gordon Macqueen, who presided, and St. Athan, Glamorgan.
Corps Supt. Shenton on behalf of " My dear Mr. Foley, unit, warmly thanked the AssocIatIOn It has been brought to my notice by through its representatives present for your General Manager that you were the their generosity and kindness to the first on the scene at the crash when an Brigade in Flint. • aeroplane from this station piloted by
A successful meeting of Corps a,nd Wing Commander J. McLaughlin, D.S.O., Divisional Officers of Flintshire Corps held D.F.C., came to grief in St. Athan village. at Holywell Town Hall was opened by Ever since I have been endeavouring to Divisional Nursing President Mrs. D. find out who the kind people were who \"laterhouse who with her husband arrived on the scene before our ovm Mr. Thomas' Waterhouse, have done much Service and I a?1 happy to .be to promote the welfare of Flintshire. able to take thIS opportumty of thankmg 375
you persona lly for your prompt acti on and timely assistance.
You will be glad to hear that vVlng Commander McLaughlin's main in ju ry was a fractured ankle, and that the injuries to his arm and the c u t under the chin are not serious. He has been transferred to the Princess Mary's R.A.F. Hospital, Halton, near Aylesbury, Bucks. for further treatment by a specialist on his ankle, and I am writing to him and telling him about you.
It is most gratifying that there are such people who can think quickly and act quickly in emergencies of this sort, and not only will Wing Commander McLaughlin always be grateful to you, but you may rest assured that you rendered an exce ll e n t service to a very va luable officer wit h a mao-nilicent war record. in time of great need. Yours sincerel y. W. A. OPIE. Air Commodore."
Barry I s la n d Ca s ualti es - The report of Corps Supt. A. E. Williams on the work carried out at the First Aid Station staffed regularly throughout the summer months by St. John personnel sho·ws a total of 2,695 cases treated. "\¥ounds, abrasions. and bruises. which include cu ts to hands and feet caused by broken glass in the sand accounted for 1,73 1, while suspected fractures of varying parts of the anatomy numbered 21. Nearly 100 sought treatment for burns and scalding, 117 for insect stings, 159 for foreign bodies in the eye, 151 for blistering, and 6 for sunstroke. There were bites too; 14 patients were treated for dog bites, one each for horse and donkey bites and 4 suffered from too close attention to the monkeys. Such ailments as pneumonia, appendicitis, malaria, internal hcemorrhage, down to toothache and earache are listed among cases which benefited from the volunteer service of the Brigade in Barry. Special tribute is paid in the report to the assistance given by the senior boy and girl cadets, especially at the creche where 741 lost children were cared for.
scope for the voluntary services o f those so qualified. The Chairman t h e resignation of Capt. W. H. C.. Dame l as Commissione r and the reappomtment o f Capt. Evans, who in a summary of county activities stressed the dIfficu l tIes with regard to lectures in securin.g services of doctors who were findmg It almost impossible to spare the time. Capt. Evans undertook to call a meeting of Divisional Officers to discuss the various points arising in the discussion.
BORO UGH OF SWANSEA
The Swansea Centre was associated with the visit of H. R.H. the Duchess of Kent (Lady Superintendent-in-Chief for Wa les) to the Festival of Music in Swansea on October 29, when Her Royal Highness i nspected a parade of Ambulance and .1 ursing senior and Cadet members drawn from the Borough of Swansea and the Gower, Neath, and Pontardawe County Areas The Han. John H. Bruce who with the Han. Mrs . Bruce was presented to H.R.H. by His ·Worship the Mayor (Councillo r Sir W. A. Jenkins) presented the Commissioner for Swansea Mr. H. S. Cann, and M r s. Cann, Assistant Commissioner L. W Hefferman and Mrs
H efferman, the Centre Treasurer, Mr. B. Baddie l, and Mrs. Baddiel, County Officer H. C. L. H avard and Mrs. Havard, Officer Mrs. M. Watkins, the Reverend and Mrs. L. Norman and Mrs. H. V.I. Stewart, members of the Centre Committee. Brigade personnel were afterwards entertained to tea at the Swansea Centre Headquarters, where the guests included Miss E. Kinsey, Lady County Cadet Officer, Bedwellty County Area, Monmouthshire, who gave a most interesting and informative talk on the history of the Order, being presented with a bouquet in token of appreciation.
THE HOSPITALLERS' CLUB
The annual dinner and dance, hel d at the Cora Hotel, on October 30, proved a most happy and enjoyable evening. The PEM BRO KES HIRE guest of honour was Superintendent Mr. Daniel Daniel, Centre Chairman, E. Frith (Metr op olitan Police) who propresided at a meeting of the Centre posed the toas t of "The Hospitalle r s' Committee held at the Shire Hall, Haver- Cl ub ", to w h ic h President A. E. T u rtle fordwest on November 9, which was replied . Vice-P r esident S. J. Stillwell attended by the President, Col. L. H. proposed" Our Guests ", the reply being Higgon (Lord Lieutenant). County Com- made by Councillo r George Little. I mmissioner Capt. A. T. N. Evans (Chief mediate Past President G. C. Bower Constable), County and Corps Officers and proposed" The President" paying tribute representatives of the Pembrokeshire to his wo r k not only during his term of Divisions. The meeting was a d dressed by office but also during the years he had the Han J. H. Bruce (Principa l Secretary acted as Han. Secretary. The preside n t and Commissioner for ·Wales) who re- suitably replied. viewed the work of the Order and indi- During the din ner music was p layed and cated the great possibi l it ies ahead. He excellent turns given by artists. M r. J . stressed the need for more perso n s to be Kemp a rranged the functio n and wa s trained in First Aid and the inc r easing thanked by the president.
376
Dura ble Antisepsis
The most effective antisepsis can be vitiaLed, particularly in obstetric p ractice, by re-infection with p athogen ic organisms. T h e objective, t h erefore, must be not merely to destroy the organisms already present, but make the treated surfaces u ntenable to any that may reach them later .
The protection afforded by , D etto l ' is prolonged. Un less washed off or gross ly contaminated , 30 % 'Dettol ' painte d on t h e u n b roken skin a nd allowe d to dry confers i nsusceptibility to fresh infection b y streptococcus pyogenes [or at least two ho ur s.
IDE T T 0 L r THE MODERN ANTISEPTIC
Nerv ous te n sion in the patie nt may frequently g we to a h eadache w hich has no r elauon to the underly ing condition but w hich may well retard the ben efits of specific treatme nt.
Th e relief of such headaches can be. achieved promptly by the use of a safe sedatwe. .
, Anadin ' Tabl e ts whi ch contain phenacetLn, aspirin , caffeine and. qu.i nine,. provide an an a lgesic w hich is rap Ld Ln . and welltole ra ted. Their anody ne actJ,on LS unattended by d epression or nausea.
.tBCKITT & COLMAN LTD., HULL AND LONDON. (PHARMACEUTICAL DEPT., HULL.)
INTERESTING CASE REPORTS
CASE REPORT No. 359.-The Officer- shoes, he ran to the spot. The boy in-Charge of the County of Gloucester had ceased to breathe, and after S.] .A.B. reports the· efficient perfor- quickly examining the nose and mouth, mance of first aid by a member of the Pte. Legg commenced Schafer's method Gloucester Rotol Division in the of artificial respiration. He promptly following circumstances :- requested the helpers to bring towels
On Saturday afternoon of September and blankets, instructed them to 25 a two-year-old boy Colin Playdon of remove the wet clothes, dry and wrap Cheltenham, was walking with his the boy, and sent for an ambulance in brother David when he slipped into which to remove the boy to hospital. a deep water-filled ditch. A neighbour, So efficiently did he work, that the (Mrs. W. A. Hills), hearing David's cry boy had commenced to breathe again for help, ran to the spot, jumped into before the ambulance arrived. Pte. the ditch, and quickly pulled Colin out Legg, therefore, handed over the boy of the mud into which he had sunk. to the ambulance crew, giving details Pte. F. VV. Legg (who resides nearby) and instructions for speedy removal to " 'as sent for, and was in the bath when hospital, and thanked his helpers. The h e received the urgent message for boy was detained for 48 hours and assistance. Wiping off the surplus wet finally discharged little worse for his and only donning his trousers and experience.
CC?MMENT.-This report speaks for itself; and all that remains is to congratulate cordwlly Pte. F. W. Legg on good work well done whereby a boy's life was saved.N. CORBET FLETCHER.
CASE REPORT No. 360.-The Officer- shock. He managed to get both in-Charge of No. I (Prince of Wales's) patients into a nearby house from District S.].A.B. reports the efficient whence he telephoned for the ambuperformance of first aid by a member lance and police; and when the of No. 173 (Hendon) Division in the ambulance arrived he already had following circumstances :- both patients comfortable and ready
On Saturday afternoon of October for removal to Redhill Hospital. As 23 Divisional Superintendent Frank H. the ambulance was fully staffed and Hurford was on duty at the Wingate did not require his services, SuperinFootball Club when during tbe match tendent Hurford waited for the police a boy came up to him and informed and assisted them in their sad duties him that there had been a serious after which he returned to the footbali accident on the railway line. He match. When this came to an end he immediately climbed the bank and went along to the hospital to collect found that four boys were involved in his splint and bandages, stayed at the the accident. Two were killed and two hospital until 10 p.m. and was thanked were gravely injured. One (Michael by the doctor for the assistance which 'Want) had sustained a fracture of the gave him, both with the patients and right elbow and was suffering from WIth the parents when they arrived. shock while other (David Later he was told that both patients Harrmgton) was suffenng from severe recovered in due course.
COMMENT.-The facts being as stated, Divisional Superintendent Frank H 1.S cor:gra.tulated on the cool and collected way in which he carried out h1.s first a1.d duhes tn d1.stressing circumstances.-N. C. F.
Humour in First Aid
. W. A. (Slougb) .-On one occasion I told a candidate to treat his patient for SImple fractures of the third and fourth metacarpal bones. This he dulv did to the palpable of the patient. The latter, when asked for the cause of his amusement, pomted. out that these bones had been removed by operation consequent on an aCCIdent some years previously.
Good! Yext please! /- C. F.
378
300
separate pointers to successful com petition work are given in HORTON'S
FIRST-AID COMPETITION TRAINING WOUNDS, BURNS. ..
(The practical euide for all First-Aid Competitors)
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BECAUSE
one or other or aU of tile rac"s of germs. Streptococci, Staphy lOCOCCI alld B pyocvaJ lIs are found in every skin infection commoo to this country. and A,\lTIPEOL OINTMENT cont.tITIS the antibodies (antivirus) of these germs. H ,ahng is expedited by the proved ingredieots of the ointm ent. and septic development is stoppPd or prevented by its antivirus sterile vaccine filtrates. ANTIPEOL OINTMENT is UDSUTp:\ssed for BURNS and SCALDS. for it is mic.rohlooe and noo-adhesive. and do rIoI rPQuin to be changed every rl ,
RHINO-ANTIPEOL
affords rapid rebef of COMMON COLDS. INFLUENZA AND CATARRH. Containing the antibodies of the common to infections of the oose and pharyml (Staphylococci str p tococci. B.pyocyaneus, pneumO<'occi. pnellmo · badlli. en terococci. M.catarrbalis. B.Pfeifier), Rhino-Antipeol is not just a palliative, but is a remover of the cause of the inJection. During epidemics it is the ideal preventive of microbic developmeot.
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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Fractured Clavicle and Dislocated Shoulder
F. R. (Altrincham) .-At a recent of the body. After much discussion we Diyjsional Practice the question arose decided to ask you to deal with this as how we should treat a fracture of the Clavicle accompanied by a disloca- question in the Query Column of tion of the shoulder on the same side The Gazette.
In all cas es in which there is more than one injury pre sent at the same time, it is al ways good practice to think of the treatment which is i ndicated for ea ch injury and then to cons i der if (and ho w ) the treatment of one injury clashes wi th that oj the injury. In the case oj the j1'actured clavicle and dislocated shoulder on the same oj th e body th e fixation of the shoulder would mask th e sig'Y!s a1!d .of fractured clav icle and prevent the application of the treatment wh zc h do wn m the Textbook for this injury. All you can do, therefore, is to SUpP01' t the upper limb with a large arm sling and suitable padding and to remove the patient to hospital as quickly as . C. F.
Eye splashed with Parazone
W. L. (Muswell Hill).-Recently the being treated with a saline solution. wife of a friend accidentally splashed As Parazone and similar substances Parazone into her eyes; and the are in such common use to-day, I question arose as to whether the poison thought that other readers of The was acid or alkali on its reaction. The Gazette would be glad to know these patient bathed her eyes with clean facts. Incidentally the patient's eyes water and on being taken to hospital had improved considerably on the next was told that it was acid, the eyes day after the accident.
Thank you for your letter with its interesting injormation.-N. C. F.
Treatment of Iodine Poisoning
J. P. (Hounslow) .-Recently at antidote in Iodine poisoning. As we Divisional Practice the question was could not solve this problem we shall raised with r efer ence to the proportions be grateful for your ruling, and we of starch and water required for an thank you in advance.
Nothing is laid down in the Textbook with reference to the proportions of starch and water 1 r equired for cases of iodine poisoning. There is, however, no difficulty becaus e tf you place a small quantity of starch in a cup and then add water it will quickly become apparent if the solution is too thick to be swallowed. If it is, then the addition of 11'tOre water is indicated.-N. C. F.
Electricity Burns
P. S. (Cardiff) .-Please tell me what and if the burns are the same as those are the signs of burning by electricity caused by dry heat.
Electricity may cause death from shock without any abrasions. Again it may cause burns which will vary with the strength of the current applied and which will present the usual signs and symptoms of any such injury due to dry heat--namely, reddening, blisterin.g, and charring of the part where contact takes place.-N. C. F.
Fractures of Ribs, Clavicle and Humerus
K. B. (Cranleigh).-The Textbook please tell us if this treatment still in the of of holds good if the patient is also nbs WIth mternal mJury the pabent should be laid down with the body suffenng from fractures of collar-bone inclined to the injured side and and humerus, on the same side or supported in this position. Could you opposite sides of the body.
In this as in all cases of multiple injuries the treatment of one injury may have to 380
PRAC',fICAL experience both in military hospitals throws in great relief the for a true tOlliC. This is interpreted in day-to-day as for a liqUId food which completely meets eve.ry. metabolic need, IS readIly accepted by the patient and is immediately assImIlated
• ' is a delicious food beverage which meets this necessity in a highly satlsfact<;>l)' manner, as an e?lergency measure and as a regular routine. The and e?ergIzIllg of' Ovaltine ' are rapidly assimilated, every dIetary essentlal and, at the same time, allaying nervous tenSIOn III a most helpful manner.
• Ovaltine' is a nat,!ral food prepared from milk, eggs, malt extract, cocoa and. soya.. Supplies are avaIlable to hospitals in special packings and at speCIal pnces.
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rry Germolene yourself-and you will be convinced ofits power to soothe and relieve skin complaints. Under the healing hand of Germolene many skin afflictions vanish in a few days - or eyenbours Makeatrial ol Germolene to-day I II" &. )/8 er tin, "' OF clears up MANY SERIOUS LEG TR QUB LES INflAMMATION RASHES, BURNS CITS
be modified when it conflicts with that laid down for the other injuries. In the combination of injuries named by you it is clear that rolling patient on the sr:me (or opposite) side as the fractured ribs might a/fgravate fractures of and humerus wheras keeping the patient flat on h2s back w1-l1 not aggravate the 'LnJury to the lungs. Further the supine position of the patient is indicated by reason of the severe shock which would be present with this combination of injuries .-N. C. F.
Temporary Arrest of Bleeding
T. S. (Crewe).-Please tell me how far Rule 8 on p. 23 of the Supplement to the Textbook affects the following two problems :-
A patient is suffering from a complicated fracture of the forearm with severe hcemorrhage from the Radial aDd Ulna arteries. I am alone, and the patient is unable to assist for some
reason. My first aid kit is available. How shall I control the h ce morrhage whilst I make the pads ? Alternatively, my kit is not available for five minutes. How shall I control the hcemorrhage? Can I use a firm bandage as in Rule 9? If so, where is my authority ? Very many thanks, sir, for your kind advice on so many occasions.
Both parts of your query deal with the same problem, that is, the temporary arrest of arterial bleeding while the dressing and pad are being prepared or while waiting for the material to be provided. Incidentally in view of your statement that no kit is available, it would be interesting to know where you got the bandage!
While I agree with you that the instructions in the SupPlement are not too clear yet it is obvious that the first two lines of Rule 9 are intended to convey the idea that should bleeding not be controlled by the application of the pad and bandage or alternatively that bleeding is not controlled because the dressing pad and bandage are not immediately available, then the firm bandage should be applied round the limb a few inches above the wound. It will of course be understood that after the built-up dressings have been applied as laid down in Rule 8, the bandage round the limb will be loosened to ascertain if the built-up dressings have controlled the bleeding.-N. C. F.
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ADDITIONAL HINTS ON FIRST AID AND HOME NURSING
By r.d. KNOPE
" It gives most helpful suggestions whereby full treatment of sudden illness and accident, as laid down in the Textbooks, can be effected."-Dr. N. Corbet Fletcher.
COi\'TE Ts-Preface by Dr. N. Corbet Fletcher; Foreword; A Word on Slings; Hints on Hremorrhage; .:.umulants; Bones and Fractures; Table of Poisons; Bed-making; Roll er -Bandaging Listed for Easy Bandage Practice; How to Answer an S.O.S. on a Certain Health Question; Suggestions for Equipping a Small First Aid C':lse for Public Duty; Instructions for the Efficient Running of an Ambu lance Tent at Large Public Functions; Suggestions for Equipping a Factory Ar.hulance Room; Some Advice for th e Factory First Aid Room; Hir.. ts ror Divisional Practices.
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