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Express and News, May 19, 1937.

BRIERCLIFFE OLD FOLKS’ TREAT

The Aged residents of Briercliffe turned out in force last Saturday for their Coronation celebration. About 140 were the guests of the Parish Council at a tea and entertainment in Haggate Baptist School, and were received by Councillor and Mrs. Heap. A staff of voluntary helpers served an excellent tea, during which a telegram was despatched to Their Majesties with loyal greeting and wishing them a long and happy reign. During the evening a reply was received by the chairman of the Parish Council expressing gratification of Their Majesties at the old folks’ congratulations, and thanking all who had joined in those good wishes. A message of sympathy was sent to Mr. F. Leaver, of Briercliffe, in his illness. A number of teas were sent out to persons who were unable to attend through illness.

The oldest person present was Mr. Robert Duerden, of Townley-street, who was 88 years of age. Octogenarians amongst the ladies included Miss Elis. Stuttard and Miss Margaret Stuttard, of Church-street, aged 86 and 80 respectively, Mrs. H. Halstead (80), of Burnley-road, who had lived in one house for 53 years, and Mrs. T. Atkinson (80), of Burnley-road. There were also present 73 year-old twins in Mrs. H. Duerden and Mrs. J. Heys.

An enjoyable entertainment was afterwards provided by the Savoy Opera Singers.

Councillor T. E. Heap, chairman of the Parish Council, presided, and said it was an honour to preside over such a distinguished gathering on such an important occasion. He was pleased to see so many aged people present, and paid tribute to the healthy surroundings of Briercliffe shown in such a good gathering of old folks. Referring to the Coronation broadcast, he said it was a unique occasion to hear the King speaking to his people on the day of his Coronation.