Jan 3rd – Obituary

Mr T Perrott, Goytre. (In Obituaries)

March 6th – Advert

Goytre, charming detached freehold bungalow. Three bedrooms, bathroom/wc, lounge, diner/kitchen, reception hall, central heating, garage. £4,500.

March 6th – Goytre Women’s Institute

Mrs Swinnerton presided, Mrs Enid Evans, (Pontllanfraith) gave an informative talk on drama, costume and production and was thanked by Mrs Young.
Miss Ada Kondeki from Northern Rhodesia spoke on her activities as a social worker amongst backward tribes and was thanked by Mrs E Jones.
Mrs Jenkins won the competition and Mrs Whittington, senior, the raffle.
Tea hostesses were mesdames Edward, Ellis and Essex.

March 6th – For Sale

Lease considered. – Shop premises, recently constructed. This is ideally suitable for Chemist which is badly needed. There are two doctor’s surgeries in the area, plus the service from doctors in Usk. The nearest chemist is 5 miles away, either at Abergavenny, Pontypool or Usk. Also there is a strong possibility of an off licence being granted to suitable applicant.

Delightful corner plot in Fairfield Estate, on which A L Way Ltd, private builder, will build to your special requirements.

Fairfield Estate, beautiful new well designed, three bedroomed bungalow. Stone fireplace for open fire plus gas central heating. Freehold £4,000.

March 20th – Entries down at Goytre VPA Spring Show

Entries in the horticultural classes of Goytre VPA eighth spring show at Llanover Village Hall on Saturday were very disappointing – there were only 21 exhibitors, although the show was open to the Women’s Institute of Goytre and Llanover.
A E Messenger (placed first in eight of the 14 classes) won the award for highest points. Other successes were E R Bradley, Mrs D V Morris, Mrs L Owen, Mrs M H French, Mrs R Rees and Mrs A Jenkins.

Industrial Classes
Fruit cake: 1. Mrs D V Morris 2. Mrs M Sturley. 3. Mrs V Jones
Victoria sponge: 1. Mrs V Jones 2. Mrs French 3. Mrs G M Young
Bread: 1. Mrs Morris 2. Mrs L Owen
Welsh cakes; 1. Mrs D Welch 2. Mrs L Owen
Sausage rolls: 1. Mrs French 2. Mrs Morris
Lemon Curd: 1. Mrs Bradley 2. Mrs L Owen
Marmalade: 1. Mrs Skidmore 2. Mrs Mrs French
Blackcurrant jam: 1.Mrs Bradley 2. Mrs Owen
Cold sweet: 1. Mrs French 2. Mrs Morris
Wine: 1. Mrs Wilson 2. Mrs Morris
Minature floral decoration: 1. Mrs A Meadowcroft 2. Mrs Bradley
Container of flowers: 1. Mrs Skidmore 2. Mrs R Rees
Garment, double knitting: 2. Mrs Meadowcroft
Matinee coat: 1. Mrs M Harper
Hen eggs: 1. Mrs V Jones 2. Mrs Rees

Children’s classes
Fancy cakes: 1. Shirley Knox 2. Judith Sturley 3. Valerie Jones
Queen cakes: Malcolm Bradley 2. Judith Bradley
Craft work: 1. Judith Sturley
Freehand drawing: 1. Judith Sturley 2, Geoff Gulliver 3. Robert Morgan
Girl’s craft work: 1. J Lewis 2. Susan Hughes 3. Susan Arthur
Freehand drawing under 7: 1. Stephen Peglar 2. Lyn Cook 3. Catherine Parsons
Illustrated story: 1. C A Meadowcroft 2. Nicholas Potter
Minature garden under 11: 1. C A Meadowcroft 2. J Lewis 3. Catherine Jones.

Special prizes
Floral art:  Mrs Skidmore
Best pot of bulbs: A E Messenger
Novice class: Mrs L Owen

March 20th – Obituary

Mrs A Gwatkin ( In Obituaries)

March 20th – Obituary

Mr E Thomas (In Obituaries)

April 24th – Goytre Village Hall Committee

Tenders are invited from experienced Building Contractors for the construction of a traditional Village Hall on Newtown Road, Goytre, near Pontypool, Mon.
Plans and specification may be obtained from the undersigned, subject to a deposit of £3/3/0 which will be repayable on receipt of a bona fide tender.
Tenders, in a plain sealed envelope, endorsed “Erection of Village Hall” and addressed to the secretary, must be returned by 12 noon on 1st May 1964.
The Committee do not bind themselves to accept the lowest or any tender.
BFW Bishop
Pencombe
Goytre, Abergavenny, Mon.

April 24th – Work will start soon on Goytre Village Hall

Building will shortly begin on Goytre’s new village hall but efforts which have made this possible must not shaken, since the hall will have to be maintained after it is built said Mr R A Higginson, the treasurer, at the annual meeting.
Mrs R Rees of Goytre Hall (president) in the chair paid tribute ti the work if the late chairman, Mr O Morgan, who died shortly before Christmas and praised the work of the retiring committee.
Retiring officers and committee were all re-elected.
Mr M M Wilson, chairman thanked supporting organisations and the general public for the immense amount of help they had given the committee in all their functions. The past year had been an active one but the work had been well worth while in view of the rapidly increasing population of Goytre, who would make use of the new hall and its facilities.
Mr Higginson was able to report a very satisfactory financial position.
The committee now consist of elected members: Mr M M Wilson (chairman); Mr A Morris (vice-chairman); Mr B F W Bishop (secretary); Mr R A Higginson (treasurer); Mrs N Knox, Messrs S Hayes, D Jones, W Morgan, P Siddaway, F Robinson and H Young.
Representative members – Mrs E James (VPA), Mr W Owen.

April 24^th – Goytre Women’s Institute

The monthly meeting of Goytre WI was held at Goytre School, Mrs Swinnerton presiding.
The minutes were read by Mrs Willson.
A talk was given by Mr Frank Hamer on pottery, illustrated with coloured film. He then judged the competition for the prettiest piece of china and awarded the highest marks to Mrs Maisey.
Thanks were expressed by Mrs R Skidmore, Mrs Wilson won the raffle.
Tea hostesses were mesdames D Jones, C Jones, B Jenkins and Jenkins (jnr.)

May 15^th – Obituary

Mrs E Owen (In Obituaries)

May 22^nd – Goytre Man’s Flu Caused Crash

A man who failed to stop after his dangerous driving had caused an accident was suffering at the time from a bad dose of influenza, Pontypool magistrates were told on Friday. William Charles Shepherdson (54) bricklayer of Goytre, pleaded guilty to charges of dangerous driving, failing to report the accident to the police and failing to stop after the accident.
He was fined a total of £13 and had his licence endorsed after his solicitor, Mr D P Tomlin had pleaded for leniency in the usual circumstances.

The court heard from Mr Michael Jennings, prosecuting, how a Mr Vaughan was driving past Hafodyrynys Colliery about 4.30 pm on March 7^th at about forty miles an hour and on his own side of the road. As he was passing a stationary vehicle on the other side of the road, another car pulled out and collided with him.
Mr Vaughan did not see the other car stop. He halted and found extensive damage to his own car. A bus passenger later testified that the road was strewn with metal and broken glass – all of which was on Mr Vaughan’s side of the road.
Police who later went to Shepherdson’s home found him ill in bed. He was obviously so ill that they decided to postpone their questioning. His car displayed extensive damage to the bodywork. Paint marks on it corresponded with the other car.
When finally questioned, Shepherdson was convinced that the other drive was at fault. He claimed that he stopped just around the corner and decided that the other car must have driven on and could not, therefore, have sustained any serious damage.
His denial of his own responsibility had been in good faith, though he now realised that he was in fact to blame, this was only after he had been convinced of the actual facts later.

May 22^nd

Taken just before the Guard of Honour for the departing Governor of Hong Kong, this photo shows Cpl. Brian Mathews (left) whose parents live at Beech Mount, Pontnewynydd and Cpl. Ian Morris whose home is at Arrow Cottage, Goytre. Both Corporals have served in Germany with the South Wales Borderers and travelled to such countries as Norway, Denmark and Holland before coming out to Hong Kong, where they are at present serving.

June 26^th – Goytre Queen Chosen

A large crowd attended the selection at Goytre School of a carnival queen and court for the Goytre flower show and fete on August Bank holiday Monday.
The judges, Mrs G Wilson, Little Mill and Mr T G Crook, Risca, chose Elizabeth Jones as queen; Diane Litten, Hilary Hughes, Shiela Owen and Caroline Frewin as court ladies.
Christine Meadowcroft and Janet Griffiths as flower girls; and Philip Jones and Stephen Andrew Griffiths as page boys.

June 26^th – For sale

600 yards from the village of Penperlleni and on the A4042 trunk road, Abergavenny 7 miles, Usk 4 miles, situated on the Monkswood road in beautiful rural surroundings, overlooking the village, with 380 yards of road frontage.
19 acres of agricultural land known as Ty Bach. Land by auction at the Goytre Arms on Thursday July 9^th at 8pm.

July 24^th – Ty Gwyn, Nantyderry

On a quiet side road, midway between Abergavenny and Pontypool, 5 miles ffrom Usk, detached freehold residence known as Ty Gwyn.
Well laid out gardens to front and side with lawns, small orchard at rear, RV £76.
Submitted to auction on Friday August 14^th at 7 pm at the Goytre Arms, Goytre, Pontypool.

September 18^th – Goytre Man’s Van Collided with Standing Lorry

Gerald Hugh Jones, 24, of Park View, Goytre, was fined £20 and disqualified from driving for 6 months and ordered to pay £11/9/1 costs at Abergavenny for driving dangerously in a mini-van. He was allowed three months to pay.
Jones, who pleaded not guilty and was represented by Mr Colin Clark, admitted driving at “about sixty” shortly before he was involved in a collision with a stationary lorry although his mini-van was restricted to a speed of 40mph.
Inspector Wilfred Evans said that a lorry which had broken down and was stationary on the Abergavenny side of Ochran Bends on the main Pontypool-Abergavenny road was struck by the defendants mini-van on July 17^th. Although the lorry’s brakes were on, it was pushed forward several feet.
Jones said in court that when he saw the lorry parked his immediate reaction was to stop and he braked. The rear of his van began to slide and it skidded for about 50 yards before striking the lorry.
Cross-examined by Inspector Evans, he agreed he was travelling faster than he should have been.

September 18^th – Trouble in the Singing Room at Goytre

Two Goytre brothers were fined £5 each with £7/5/10 costs at Pontypool on Friday for disprderly conduct in a public house.
Raymond Geoffrey Webb (20) and Michael George Webb (19) of 17, Frondeg, Goytre, pleaded guilty by letter.
Mr Evans, licensee of the Goytre Arms, said that ten minutes after he called time, he went into the singing room and told the crowd of youngsters it was time they were going. Thereupon the younger Webb went over to another youth and attacked him with his fists.
Mr Evans asked the Webb’s to leave but they refused and continuously attempted to punch other customers who had given no provocation.
The Webb brothers threatened to wreck the premises if the police were sent for.
They were eventually ejected by other customers but uttered more threats outside the premises.
Royston Gibbs, of Pontnewynydd, said he and a number of friends occupied some seats in the singing room twenty minutes after the Webbs had vacated them. Some time later they came back and one of them said “They are our seats shall we shift them?”
Then after closing time one of the Webbs came over and started the fight.
Damage was done to glasses and windows during the fracas.

October 23^rd – Usk Milkman Attacked by a Boar

An Usk milkman, Mr Denis Gardner, who lives at Ty-Llwyd Farm, Goytre, was attacked and savaged by a boar near his home on Sunday.
The animal reared on its hind legs and as Mr Gardner raised his right arm to defend himself, the boar buried its fangs in his forearm, breaking bones in the hand and tearing flesh and tendons.
Mr Garnder was lucky not to be more seriously injured.
The boar was shot as it lay asleep in its cot after the attack.

Friday August 26^th – Free Press Special

Remarkable Brothers -Three Brothers of 93, 87 and 85 “Beer and Cider Good says Octogenarian”, but tobacco a life shortener.

To have lived 265 years, practically in one district is the combined record of three remarkable brothers still living very near each other in a small area of which Nantyderry Station might be termed the centre.

These are Mr Philip Jenkins 93, Mr Walter Jenkins 87 and Mr James Jenkins, the youngster of the family, who 85, is still trying to catch up his elder brothers.

Furthermore two of the brothers both stand a very erect six feet something each and between all three very few days work have been missed on account of sickness throughout the whole of their long years.
Asked to account for this longevity, Mr Walter Jenkins, the middle one, answered three words: “Beer and cider.” It is a strange fact however, that all three are life long abstainers from tobacco which Mr Walter Jenkins thinks is a life shortener.
This one of the brothers, interviewed by a “Free Press” representative was found to be very typical of the other two and his history gives a fairly good idea of the kind of life that has been led by all of the them.
He is still a fine figure of a man clear-eyed and active in mind and body. It is hard to say which is the most remarkable; his comparitively great physical power or the wonderful memory that can recall all manor of minor incidents over a span of some 89 years.

Following the Hounds at 87
The physical prowess of Mr Walter Jenkins may be judged from that fact that only recently he followed the otter hounds for three days. His son who is 53 had to give up and return, fagged out long before the old man, who one day followed one otter for eight and a half hours. On this occasion the trail started at the Chain Bridge and worked around to Brynderwen, where the old man was in at the kill and he can also tell that it was an 28lb kill. Then he calmly walked off to his home at Nightingale Cottage, Monkswood.
That is the usual address, although Mr Jenkins is careful to point out that only the garden is really in Monkswood, the house being in Goytre.

Old in Years Only
It is doubtful if Mr Jenkins really considers himself old, he is young in spirit and as to his youthfulness in other ways we have only to look back to the story of the hounds. The secret of all this is happiness, for Mr Jenkins says that every day of his life has been happy, even though he has never moved more than a few miles away from his native parish and has never had what are now known as holidays.
They are by far the oldest three in the ancient club which is held at the Carpenters Arms, Penpellenny. Philip has been a member for 70 years, Walter 66 and James for more than 50.

The Biography of Walter
Mr Walter Jenkins was born at Walnut Tree Farm, Goytre, only about a mile away from where he lives at present. When 11 years of age he went out to service with an uncle living in the district. After that he spent three years driving pack-mules with sand from the quarry for the British Works at Talywain. Later he was timber hauling in connection with the building and what is now the great main railway line between Hereford and Pontypool Road. Later he spent three years farming and two years as woodward.

Then came a great span of life in one service. For thirty years he was woodward and keeper for the late Colonel H C Byrde. J.P. After that he was for six years keeper to what is now the Blaenavon Company. Following this, he was for seven years a keeper on the estate of the late Lady Llanover, grandmother to the present Lord Treowen.

His wife died some four years ago at the age of 79. It is rather a curious thing that both Mr Jenkins and his wife were each the ninth child in large families, Mrs Jenkins maiden name was also Jenkins.

Linked With Napoleonic Wars
The lives of the three brothers form a very close link with the Napoleonic wars, for their father was drawn in the lottery to serve with the Army at that time. As he had then a wife and young family, he could not see his way to go, so he sold his house for £50, the price he had to pay for a substitute.

The brother who was interviewed recalls the fact that the language of his father and mother was Welsh and it was the custom for them to reply in English. The father and mother lived to be 83 years of age.

Such in brief, is the outline of the family history of what may be termed the most remarkable “young fellows” in Monmouthshire.

September 2^nd– For Sale by Private Treaty

GOYTREY: small holding with immediate possession, comprising 5 roomed Cottage, with excellent garden and about four acres of land. Folio 106

Bunning and Russell, Pontypool.

September 9th – Parish of Goytre

Freehold Accommodation Land known as Glan-y-nant Meadow in the occupation of the vendor, Mr Ben Morgan.
J Straker, son and Chadwick, Abergavenny

September 30th – Glan-y-nant Goytre

Important sale of hauliers horses, tip carts, timber wagon &c.
Also Live and Dead Farming Stock for Mr Ben Morgan (retiring)
J Straker, son & Chadwick.

Glan-y-nant Goytre, mid-way between Pontypool and Abergavenny, on the Top Road near the Horseshoe Inn and about Two Miles from Nantyderry G.W.R. Station.
J Straker, son & Chadwick are instructed by Mr B Morgan who is giving up his Haulier’s business to sell, without reserve:
6 useful draught horses in hard condition and working up to date of sale;
3 new tip carts and gambo
Nearly new 5 ton timber carriage
8 sets of Gears; Rick of Fern; Chains; 70 Galvanised sheets; Chaff Cutter; Two ton of pit wood; six Scaffold poles; four spare collars; float; trap; horse rack; capital rally car;
50 young Cardie Ewes
50 head of poultry
Sow and seven pigs
15 fresh bred two-year-old cross bred steers and heifers
Well bred cart sucker
Cow and calf
12 fresh cider hogsheads
14 tons of hay; (standing on New Barn Farm) 3 year old shire bred colt; two pitter colts; 50 Welsh ewes and Fat lambs; excellent float; sow with first litter.
Sale at two o’clock sharp
Cash only.

September 30^th – Sale of Goytre Property

On Tuesday at the Angel Hotel, Abergavenny, Mr Montague Harris offered for sale the Goytrey House Estate and Lands, including the Mansion house and freehold farms.

For Goytre House, situate about six miles from Abergavenny, together with stabling, garage and Lodge and about 30 acres of gardens there was no bid.

Goytre House Farm, about 16 acres freehold and 33 acres leasehold sold to Mr Morgan, Bryn, Newbridge for £800.

Pasture land, about 2 acres and piece of pasture land about 1 acres sold to Mr Morgan, Bryn, Newbridge for £97.50.

Pantysgawn freehold farm and outbuildings about 66 acres sold to Mr John Williams, Mamhilad near Pontypool for £850.

Two pieces of land called Cae Susanna 15 acres, sold to Mr Vaisey, Pontypool for £45.

Freehold a piece of pasture land sold to Mr Albert Owen, Goytre for £250.

Piece of land Penperllenny, Goytre, upon which is a stone built house held on lease for 60 years, let on an annual rent of £6 by private treaty to the tenant. The freehold was sold by private treaty to the tenant.

Smith’s shop and cottage and part of garden, held by Mrs Wilks, Goytre, was sold by private treaty to the tenant. The freehold was also sold to the tenant.

Freehold of a piece of garden ground adjoining Penperllenny lot, 22 poles, was sold by private treaty to the tenant.

Freehold of three pieces of pasture land and two houses, situate at Penperllenny, Goytre, about 4 acres, was sold to Mr D F Pritchard, Goytrey House, Goytre for £320.

Block of pasture and stable land Goytrey, about 12 acres sold to Mr David Morgan for £42. Freehold for this lot sold to Mr David Morgan for £350.

Freehold residence and land, Pentre Grange, Goytre, let at a yearly tenancy to Mrs Jones, sold by private treaty to the tenant.

Freehold Llwyn Celyn Farm, Goytre, together with 32 acres of land, sold by private treaty, sold to Mrs Jones, Pentre Grange, Goytrey.

Messrs Gardeners, Hayward and Grey were the auctioneers.

September 21st – Saron Baptist Church

On Tuesday evening the Rev. E W Pryce Evans, M.A., of Crane Street Baptist Church, Pontypool, addressed the young people’s guild and friends; his subject being “The Ministry of the Mountains.”
Quite a good congregation assembled and they were amply rewarded. The Rev. gentleman provided a fine intellectual treat.
This is the first of a series of intellectual lectures arranged by the energetic Pastor, Rev. L C Edwards, who is determined that the winter months shall not pass away unimproved.

September 30^th1921 – Sale of Goytre Property

On Tuesday at the Angel Hotel Abergavenny, Mr Montague Harris offered for sale the Goytrey House Estate and Lands, including the Mansion house and freehold farms.
For Goytrey House, situate about six miles from Abergavenny, together with stabling, garage and lodge and about 30 acres of gardens there was no bid.

Goytre House farm, about 19 acres freehold and 33 acres leasehold sold to Mr C F Morgan, Bryn, Newbridge for £800.
Pasture land, about 2 acres and piece of pasture land about 1 acre sold to Mr Morgan, Bryn, Newbridge for £975.

Pantysgawn freehold farm and outbuildings about 66 acres sold to Mr John Williams Mamhilad near Pontypool for £850.

Two pieces of land, known as Cae Susanna 15 acres, sold to Mr Vaisey, Pontypool for £45.

Freehold of a piece of pasture land sold to Mr Albert Owen, Goytrey for £250

Piece of land, Penpellenny, Goytre, upon which is a stone built house held on lease for 60 years, let on an annual rent of £6 sold by private treaty to the tenant. The freehold was sold by private treaty to the tenant.

Smith’s shop and cottage and part of garden, held by Mrs Wilks, Goytrey, was sold by private treaty to the tenant. The freehold was also sold to the tenant.

Freehold of a piece of garden ground adjoining Penpellenny lot, 22 poles, was sold by private treaty to the tenant.

Freehold of three pieces of pasture land and two houses, situate at Penpellenny,Goytre, about 4 acres, was sold to Mr D F Pritchard, Goytrey House, Goytrey, for £320.

Block of pasture and arable land Goytrey about 12 acres sold to Mr David Morgan for £42.

Freehold of this lot sold to Mr David Morgan for £350.

Freehold residence and lands, Pentre Grange, Goytrey, let as a yearly tenancy to Mrs Jones, sold by private treaty to the tenant.

Freehold Llwyn Celyn Farm, Goytrey, together with 32 acres of land, sold by private treaty sold to Mrs Jones, Pentre Grange, Goytrey

Messrs Gardners, Heywood and Grey were the auctioneers.

October 14^th–  For Sale or to Let

The Haven, Nantyderry, near Abergavenny – apply J Williams at above address.

October 21st – For Sale or by Public Auction

Freehold roadside Small Holding 3^1/2  acres or thereabouts Glan-y-nant:

Comprising a stone and slate built compact five roomed messuage, garden and orchard, three meadows, piggeries and outbuildings, now in the occupation of Mr Ben Morgan, ideal poultry or pig farm with small residence in good repair.
Cummuted tithe 13s 1d
Land tax 1s 9d

Further information:
Messrs Liscombe and Dawson Commercial St Newport.

November 11^th1921 For Sale by Private Treaty The Haven Nantyderry

Near Abergavenny [now in the occupation of Mr John Williams the owner]

The House stands in its Own Grounds of One acre or thereabouts with Lawns and Kitchen Garden and is surrounded by a large collection of very fine Shrub and Fruit Trees. The House consists of Hall, Drawing Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, Pantry, China Pantry, Scullery, a Convenient Office with Greenhouse attached, Four Bedrooms, Bathroom and upstairs W.C.  There are several Outhouses.

The Property is Freehold and is situated within three minutes walk of Nantyderry Station abutting onto the main road from Penpellenny to Nantyderry.  It commands a beautiful view of the best parts of Monmouthshire.  The House was built quite recently and is fitted out with all modern conveniences.  There is a splendid supply of water.

Vacant possession on completion of purchase.

Further particulars from:  A DENSLEY

Business Transfer Agent & c. Penygarn, Pontypool

November 13^th –  The Haven, Nantyderry
For sale by Private Treaty

The house stands in its own grounds of one acre, or thereabouts, with lawns and kitchen garden and is surrounded by a large collection of very fine shrubs and fruit trees.

The house consists of hall, drawing room, dining room, kitchen, pantry, china pantry, scullery, a convenient office with greenhouse attached, four bedrooms, bath room, and upstairs W.C. There are several outhouses.

The property is freehold and is situated within three minutes walk of Nantyderry Station, abutting onto the main road from Penpelenny to Nantyderry.

It commands a beautiful view of the best parts of Monmouthshire. The house was built quite recently and is fitted out with all modern conveniences, There is a splendid supply of water,

Vacant possession on completion.
Further details from:
A Densley, Penygarn, Pontypool.

6^thJanuary – Goytrey Bachelors Tea

The enterprising bachelors of Saron Baptist Chapel gave an excellent tea on Monday evening week.

Mr David Morgan, The Wern; Mr Con. Pritchard Ty Rhuewan; Mr H. Humphries, Penystair; and Mr W. Evans, Coalbrook presided at the tables, which they had very tastefully decorated with evergreens and flowers.

After tea a very interesting programme was given by the Sunday School scholars and friends.

The choir under the leadership of Mr Morgan in their selections, “The Saviours Birth  and “Christmas Bells” gave evidence of a patient practice and careful training; Miss A.E. Carpenter accompanied.

The singing of the Mamhilad Male Voice Party conducted by Mr Ernest Evans was a pleasant item.

Miss Edith Grence and party in dialogue “New Brooms Sweep Clean” elected loud applause.

Miss M. Brown played accompaniment to the quartet, and Miss Carpenter solos.

The Chairman, the Rev. G.G. Cole, needless to say by his witty and appropriate remarks contributed much to the enjoyment of the meeting.

On Sunday last through the generosity of Mr Pyman of Goytrey House, who doubled the Anniversary collections, each scholar was presented with a suitable prize, and this was in addition to the usual trip given in the summer.

Great praise is also due to Mr John Evans who although ill at the time came out to take his place in the chair, and to Mrs Minnie Evans and Mrs Maggie Jones for their solos.

3^rdFebruary  – The Liability of Country Tenants to keep their Hedges Pruned
An Interesting Case

Alfred Williams, Josiah Lewis, Henry Crump, William Jenkins and James Rowlands, were summoned to show cause why they should not be ordered to prune certain hedges on the highway at Goytre.

Mr T. Watkins, solicitor prosecuted on behalf of the Pontypool Rural District Council.

Jenkins, Rowlands, and [afterwards] Lewis, appeared in court, whilst Crump was represented by his son; Alfred Williams being the only one not represented.

Mr Watkins read section 65 of the Highways Act, respecting the cutting, pruning and plashing of hedges and empowering the local authority to prosecute.

In September last, the Rural District Council received a petition from the inhabitants of Goytrey [and strange to say, most of the defendants signed it] calling attention to the bad state of the roads and hedges.

Defendants were served with notices on the 5^th of November to prune their hedges. Subsequently question was called to attention at the Parish Council. Nothing could be done to the roads until those hedges were cut. No wind or sun could get into them.

Rowlands, an old man of remarkable assertiveness, who, throughout the case provoked amusement by his persistent interruptions and expressions of opinion, boldly asked for the cases to be heard separately. His request was acceded to, his case was heard first.

Mr Robert Derrett, surveyor to the Pontypool Rural District Council, produced the petition signed by the inhabitants, and read the part relating to the fences, which were described as dangerous. Rowlands name was among the signatures. Witness handed the roadmen certain documents, copies of which were produced, this was on the 5^th of November, the Rural District Council had also received a requisition from the Parish Council.

Defendant – When were you over that way mister Rowland
Witness – Thursday

Where did you see this hedge you are complaining about? – On the road
What road? – The witness described the road

What sort of hedge was it? – You have cut a portion of it
What day of the year do you plead? – From the 30^th September to the 31^st March

Did you ever see a man plash a hedge in September? – Many trees are planted in October.
Rowlands, Not one sir – You have brought me here today on a thing that is just beginning.  Christmas is the time for plashing a hedge.

Witness – It’s the orders of the Council.

The chairman told Rowlands he had had the whole of December, and the whole of January, two months, to do what was required of the hedge, he [the Chairman] knew as much about hedges as the defendant did.

Defendant said he always did the hedges between January and April.  In April he preferred to do them. There was 85 yards done already, and he had about as much again, which he would do in 3 days if the weather was fine.

The Chairman advised him to do this.

Defendant: I am quite willing, what about my expenses Sir? I can’t come down here without my expenses, [laughter]

The Chairman: You have not done what you had notice in November to do. The Council had full power to summon you. They had a perfect right and you are here because you neglected to do your duty, and no one can pay you for neglecting to do your duty.

Defendant: Begging you pardon, the time is not expired until next March. There is a piece there by the house that will shade the house and the Rectory. Am I to do that or not?  I do not know why I have been brought here today and lose time. If you had summoned me in April I should have done it.

The Chairman: I don’t summon you. You get it done as soon as you can. The law states you must get it done before 31^st March. We have only to make an order.

Defendant: It’s too early to be done.

The Chairman: The order is that you are to do it in ten days or the Council will do the work and charge you with the costs.

Defendant: It can’t be done in ten days; I am short of stakes, [laughter]

Mr Watkins also asked that defendant should pay costs, but the Chairman said as this was the first case of this kind, the Bench did not think it advisable to order the costs to be paid.

The next case taken was that of Jenkins, who did not dispute his liability.  He said he did the greater part of the hedge last year. He was leaving the farm on 2^nd February, and expressed the opinion his landlord could claim damages of him if he pruned the hedge at this stage, besides, the trees were very good shelter for the house in rough weather.

The Chairman: If we make the order you will be safe from your landlord then?

Mr Derrett said the trees in question were 150 yards away, and were not a shelter to the house.
It’s nothing like a hundred yards sir.

The Bench granted the order applied for.

The third case, Josiah Williams was heard next.  Williams said that any reasonable man would know it was not the time to trim the hedges now.

The Chairman – I had my trees done for the convenience of the County Council, although I was not obliged to do so as they are ornamental.

Defendant – I did 157 perches last winter.

An order was made in this case, defendant at this time expressing his annoyance at being compelled to come there and lose time over such an affair.

Crumps son pleaded that the road was to bad for a man to work on that side of the hedge next to the road – else his father would have done it.

Col. Hair – It is to be hoped you will have finer weather – similar order made.

An order was made in the remaining case, that of Alfred Williams.

24^th February  – Bulldog Set on a Policeman

Timothy Curren was charged with stealing apples, value 1s, the property of David Thomas at Goytrey on 11^th August 1895.

P.c. Davies said that on Sunday  he saw the defendant go into Mr Thomas’s orchard and fill his pockets with apples.

There was a boy on the road watching with a big bulldog. Witness started to go for the defendant when he set the bulldog at him and kept him at bay. Every time witness tried to advance he set the dog at him.

He then unloaded his pocket of apples and went off. Witness took the apples to Mr Thomas. Defendant absconded afterwards and only recently returned to the district.

David Thomas said that on the day in question P.c. Davies had brought some apples to him, the value of which was 1s. A fine of 5s was imposed.

Defendant – in answer to the magistrate said that he had been in Ireland since the time the offence was committed.

7^th April  – Sad Drowning Fatality at Chain Bridge

A very sad case of drowning occurred at the Chain Bridge near Pontypool on Thursday.

It appears that a little girl, Gertrude Prosser, aged 10 years, with her little brother, a year older, children of the collector of the bridge tolls, were picking primroses at the top of a steep bank of the river above the bridge, called the Rock Pool, when suddenly the little girl slipped, and rolled down the bank and into the Pool which is about 15 foot deep.

The little brother, who of course was very much frightened, ran down to the toll house and told his mother.  A water bailiff called Parker, who happened to be near, immediately ran to a place where a boat is kept higher up the river, and he, with the assistance of General Gillespie of Brynderwen eventually got the body out of the water

after it had been immersed about an hour and a half.

The funeral took place at Bettws Newydd Church on Easter Monday. Deep sympathy is felt for Mrs Prosser, whose husband has only lately died.

1901 census –  Chainbridge

Mary Elizabeth Prosser widow, 39, caretaker born in Clun Shropshire. Living with her are her children, James, 14, Arthur John, 10, and eight year old Frederick.

19^th May 1899 – Theft of Coal

John Davies was charged with stealing 1s worth of coal at Goytrey on the 4^th May.  Defendant pleaded guilty. Arthur Pugh, waggoner, in the employ of Rosser & Payne, said he was taking coal to Nantyderry and left the coal [1cwt] under a hedge where requested by the purchaser, in a sack.

Witness identified the sack produced as the one containing the coal.  He asked the prisoner the following day if he had seen anything of the coal, and he said he had not – Margaret Evans, Gwilym Evans and P.c. Davies also gave evidence.

Defendant said he found the coal where it had been placed by the first witness, and took it, not knowing whom it belonged to, but the constable said that at first defendant denied any knowledge of the coal.

This was his first offence and a fine of 10s was imposed.

30^th June 1899 – No Dog License

Mary Edgar was charged with having a dog without a license at Goytrey on the 19th June.

Defendant pleaded guilty but said that she now had a license.

P.c. Davies said that he found a dog on defendant’s premises and she told him she had been refused exemption, as she not had sufficient cattle or land. – Fined 5s.

4^th August – Maintenance of Father

Edwin Edgar was charged with not maintaining his father. Mr Davies, relieving officer said that the defendant’s father was chargeable to the Pontypool Union.

Defendant was a farmer and held about 20 acres of land at Goytrey.  Defendant said he had offered to pay 1s per week, but he found that he could not pay.

An order of 1s per week was made.

Parish of Goytrey

Marfell & Poole Have been instructed to offer for sale by public auction at the Three Salmons Hotel, Usk On Monday the 21^st day of August 1899 At 3 o’clock in the afternoon,

FREEHOLD FARM & LANDS Known as YEW TREE COTTAGE FARM Situate in the parish of Goytrey adjoining the road leading from Monkswood to Penperllenny and containing an area of 36a 0r 2p or thereabouts And now in the occupation of Mr George Stinchcombe as yearly tenant.

Also all that COTTAGE and GARDEN Adjoining the above farm and containing upwards of one acre and now in the occupation of Mr William Summers

The property is pleasantly situated with a southern aspect and commands good views of the surrounding country.

It adjoins a good road and is situate about 3 miles from Usk, 4 from Pontypool and 7 from Abergavenny.

Auctioneers:Trostrey Court Usk:
Solicitors: Gustard & Waddington

13^th October Usk & Goytrey Properties

Marfell & Poole Will offer for sale by public auction on Monday 16^th August 1899 at 3 o’clock in the afternoon at the Three Salmons Hotel, Usk

Lot 11:
All that Cottage and Garden and piece of Meadow Land known as ELM TREES in the parish of Goytrey, nos. 312 & 313 on the ordinance survey of that parish

The whole containing 1acre 1r  29p

The whole in the occupation of Mr Evan Morgan at a low yearly rental of £6 6s

This property is situate on the main road from Llanover Village to Pontypool, being about 1 mile from the former and within easy access to Nantyderry Station.
Auctioneer: Trostrey Court, Usk

29^th September 1899 – Extension

An extension of one hour was granted for the Carpenters Arms, Penpwellenny on the 28^th inst., on the occasion of a ploughing match dinner to be held at the Goytrey Farmers Club.

27^th October 1899 – Poor Rate

Mary Ann Williams, Goytrey was summoned for non-payment of 3s 3d poor rate due to the overseers of Goytrey.

She said she had never paid taxes, only the rent and that she never had notice to pay the rates.  Mr E.W. Gwatkin said defendant was duly rated.

The property, a cottage at Glan-y-nant had changed hands and the present owner had refused to pay the rates.

She was given a month to pay, and willingly consented

August 5^th – Motor-Cyclists Injuries

Charles Shepherdson, 22, Twyn Cecil, Goytre, was admitted to Pontypool and District Hospital on Sunday, suffering from shock, abrasions and cuts.
Whilst riding a motor-cycle he came into a collision with a car.

August 5^th – Williams-James, pretty Goytre wedding at Goytre

The marriage was solemnised at Saron Church Goytre on Monday of Mr R J Williams, eldest son of Mr & Mrs J Williams, High Cottage, Goytre and Miss Irene Elizabeth James of Elm Tree Cottage, Goytre. The Rev. C Aubry Rees was the officiating minister, Mrs R Prosser present at the organ.

The bride, who was given away by her brother, Mr A James, wore an ankle length dress of pale blue satin with a black picture hat and carried a bouquet of pink carnations and maidenhair fern.

She was attended by two bridesmaids, Miss E M Williams, sister of the bridegroom, who wore an ankle length dress of lemon crepe-de-chine, with a white picture hat and Miss Eva Pardoe, cousin of the bride, who also wore an ankle length dress indicated, both carried a bouquet of chrysanthemums and maidenhair fern.

Little Misses Sylvia Jones and Molly James, the flower girls, wore dresses in blue silk and carried flower baskets of blue scabious.

The best man was Mr J Williams, brother of the groom.

After the ceremony a reception at the parental home of the bride was attended by some 50 guests. There were a number of valuable presents including one from the Sunday school of which the bride had been superintendent for some time.

August 19^th – In Pontypool Hospital

William Morris aged 7, of Ash Cottage, Goytre was on Wednesday evening admitted to Pontypool hospital suffering from abrasions to the head, right arm and left leg. His condition is reported as satisfactory.
He was knocked down by a motor car.

September 9^th – Mrs H Jenkins aged 93 (in obituaries)

September 9^th – Goytre Couple

Mr & Mrs Thomas Morgan of Pwllmeyric Goytre celebrated their Golden wedding on Sunday having been married at Goytre Church on September 4^th 1882.

Mr Morgan is in his 80^th year and his wife a year or so older. Both are in splendid health and are spending a week at Barry with friends to celebrate.

Mr Morgan had been a market gardener at Goytre for many years. As a young man he spent a short time in Canada and has worked for short periods on the coal stage at Pontypool Road and Viponds top pit, Varteg.

Both Mr & Mrs Morgan are old members of Saron Baptist Church.

Of the family of 5 children 3 survive, Mr David Morgan, Maesteg, Mrs R Mount of Basingstoke and Mr Wm Morgan, Pontypool.

September 16^th – Goytre Farm Withdrawn

At the Greyhound Hotel, Abergavenny, on Tuesday, M/s J. Straker and Son & Chadwick F.A.I., offered for sale by auction the freehold residential property and modern farmery Ty’r Ewen, Goytre.

The owner – occupier is Mr J Lewis and the property which includes land and orcharding of over 14 acres was withdrawn at £1,350.

September 23^rd – Tale of a Horse, Singular Case at Pontypool County Court

A strange story in connection with a transaction in the sale of a horse was related at Pontypool County Court on Wednesday before his Honour Judge L C Thomas, when Edward Henry Charles of Goytre claimed £5 from Henry Taylor of Manor Road, Abersychan.

Mr WLV Harding (from the office of Mr WJ Everett, Pontypool) appeared for the plaintiff and Mr Isca Bowen (of Messrs AE Bowen & Son, Pontypool) for the defendant.

Charles said he paid £5 for a horse from John Hancock, an underground labourer of Cwmffrwdore, who gave him a receipt, stating that the horse had been sold on behalf of Taylor. Soon after the sale he met Mr Taylor at Pontypool fair.

He then told him he had not given Hancock permission to sell the horse. A few days later Taylor came to his farm and said he was going to take the horse away.

The phoned for the police and Taylor left before the constable came.

On 27^th July he met defendant at Pontynewynydd and he again said he was coming for the horse. He asked Taylor to see Hancock and get the purchase money from him and the transaction would be completed.

The defendant was that Hancock had had no authority to sell the animal.

Anybody’s Job
It was stated that Taylor told William Gwatkin the licensee of the Wheatsheaf Hotel, Pontypool at the time, that if he got a buyer for the horse he could have anything beyond £5 for himself. Hancock was present at the time and considered he was included in the selling arrangement.

Hancock said he had offered £5 to Taylor and he had it in court to pay him.

The Judge: It was a golden opportunity.

Reviewing the evidence his honour said Taylor made if perfectly clear that he was willing to take £5 for the horse. Hancock overheard the conversation and apparently considered he was included in the offer. In selling it honestly for he gave a receipt on behalf of Taylor.

His Honour said he was drawn to the conclusion that when the conversation took place Hancock was entitled to think that, provided he got this money which Mr Taylor wanted he was entitled to sell the horse.

The proper course for him to take was to give judgement for plaintiff and to leave Hancock to hand over the £5.

September 30^th – To Let or for sale

One cottage on main road Goytre to Nantyderry. Modern conveniences:-

Apply W Jackson, Goytre, Pontypool.

October 7^th – Goytre Chapel Ed

The church, built in 1807 has been re-roofed and the interior painted and decorated. A new window also has been placed in the Chapel to the memory of the late Mr John Wilks who was a deacon in the church for over 60 years.

At the re-opening service the special speaker was the Rev. D L Jenkins, Bargoed and there was a large and appreciative audience, including a number of the direct descendants of good and true men who were the founders of the sanctuary.

At the evening meeting addresses were delivered by the Rev. Eli Symmons, Mr D James, Green Court, Llanover, Mr Pritchard, New Inn, Mr W Stinchcombe. Mr John Wilks, Little Mill, presided at the organ.

October 14^th

Mr Stanley Williams and Mr & Mrs James, Pentre Farm, Goytre, wish to thank all kind friends for sympathy during their recent bereavement and for their floral tributes.

October 14^th – Wedding

The wedding took place on Monday of Goytre postman Mr Wilfred Spencer and Miss Mary Jane Dobbs, the eldest daughter of Mr & Mrs Richard Dobbs, Gable Cottage, Goytre.

At 8 o’clock numerous relatives and friends had assembled at Goytre Church to witness the ceremony, which was solemnised by the rector, the Rev. HCP Belcher, M.A.

The bride, who looked charming was attended by her sister, Miss Elsie Dobbs and was given away by her eldest brother, Mr Alfred Dobbs, in the unavoidable absence of her father.

Another brother, Mr Evan Dobbs, carried out the duties of best man.

The wedding party were subsequently entertained at the bride’s home.

The bridegroom, needless to say is well known in the district, for which he has been postman for 5 years.

He is the youngest son of Mrs Spencer, Ventnor, Isle of Wight.

The happy couple later left for Ventnor where the honeymoon will be spent.

Mr & Mrs Spencer will reside at Pontypool.

October 14^th – Mr Enoch Waters (in obituaries)