A look back at what life was like in our villages back in 1912 * IN an age rather too sceptical to accept stories of ghosts, even when the authentication seems to be reliable, the happenings at Tydd, about 200 yards from St Mary s Church, and the alleged

A look back at what life was like in our villages back in 1912

* IN an age rather too sceptical to accept stories of ghosts, even when the authentication seems to be reliable, the happenings at Tydd, about 200 yards from St Mary's Church, and the alleged visit by a ghost will be by no means believed.

The cottage was that of Mr Eason, a smallholder, and was not isolated. It commenced with a series of rappings on a door, which was ascribed to some extraordinary agency.

During the first few days the door was answered to the knocks, but nobody stood without.

It began to be suspected that boys came up to the door, and then ran off, but efforts to discover the practical jokers failed. The knockings continued at various times, before starting to die away after two weeks.

* AT a public meeting of the Coates and District Smallholders, held at the Public Hall, Mr F J Langford, secretary, explained the objects of the society, which is co-operation in trading.

They have already started trading, and are making arrangements for expansion.

Mr Lister also spoke on the necessity and utility of placing men on the land.

Mr J Collingwood gave a lucid description of the County Council's work, pointing out the timidity of many councillors, and the unpatriotism of the council in refusing the offer of Childer's Estate.

He said there were 600 acres wanted in the Coates district, and he would give the society every assistance in helping this movement.

* AN interesting lecture, illustrated by lantern slides, was given at the Manea Institute by the Rev A E Hollins, on behalf of the Church of England Waifs and Strays Society, of which he was organising secretary for the diocese.

The room was filled with an appreciative audience, who gave the speaker every attention, whilst he told them of the excellent work that the society was doing in taking children from their unhealthy and bad homes and teaching them trades and training them in order that they have a fair chance to earn their livelihood.