Grand Cinema, Leighton Road,
Linslade [Z1306/72]
Thursday
5th September 1918: Tribunals continue to be held on a regular
basis to hear appeals against conscription to military service for men
considered to be essential workers. At today’s Linslade Urban District Tribunal
a number of exemptions were agreed. Joseph R. Labrum, age 40, a coal merchant
at Ledburn Wharf, Linslade, received three months’ exemption with the consent
of the Military Authorities on the grounds that he is in a certified
occupation. The normal requirement to serve as a Volunteer was waived as he is
a lieutenant in the Special Constables. William White, the licensee of the
Bedford Arms, was exempted for six months on health grounds. He has been
certified as not fit for any kind of service, even as a Volunteer.
There was some complaint
that Linslade retailers had been taken by the Army whereas those in Leighton
Buzzard had not, with the result that shoppers were being forced to go to
Leighton. This time grocer Lewis Lovell of 55 Old Road was exempted for three
months on the grounds that his work was of the utmost importance. Other men
considered to be in essential occupations included a cattle dealer, a
coppersmith carrying out skilled work for Morgan and Company, and the manager
of the Grand Theatre. Although Mr. Dyball, aged 33 and single, only passed his
medical as Grade 3 he could still have provided useful service to the Army as a
clerk. However, he was carrying out the work of two men at the Theatre, and the
importance of picture palaces for propaganda work was recognised by the
tribunal.
Source:
Leighton Buzzard Observe, 10th September 1918
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