Mexborough and Swinton Times, December 29, 1917

Soldiers’ Children Entertained.

The Swinton and Kilniturst children of  soldiers and sailors spent a very happy time last Friday afternoon at the Mexboro’ Empire where they assembled at the joint invitation of Mr. and Mrs. George Baker, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Baker, and Mrs. S. E. Baker, of Swinton, to participate in a treat which had been thoughtfully arranged for them. This is the third Christmas treat given by Messrs. Baker to soldiers’ and sailors’ children, and that their kind thought and hospitality is thoroughly appreciated was amply evidenced last Friday when, at the close of the programme, the “kiddies ” gave three thunderous cheers to their entertainers.

Between 500 and 600 children were present, together with the wounded soldiers from the Mexboro’ Hospital and many other friends. A special programme of pictures had been arranged by Mr. W. H. Melton, the manager of the Hall. The films were particularly appropriate for the occasion and included the following—

” Screen Magazine” ` Baby Boy’s Dream ” (in two part} ‘ Bairnsfather’s Cartoons,” “Jack and the’ Beanstalk,” and an amusing American comedy picture.

Between the pictures Miss Marsh, of Rotherham, who is now recognised as one of the best elocutionists in the neighbourhood, entertained the company with several recitations, submitted in her best style. Her items included

“The Bald-headed Man,” ” Little Orphan Annie,” and ” I don’t want to be washed.” At the two previous treats the children were entertained to a sumptuous tea, hut having regard to the Food Controller’s urgent request for economy in the use of foodstuffs this part of the treat had reluctantly to be abandoned. However, the children were not altogether disappointed in this respect, for, during the afternoon, there was a liberal distribution amongst them of buns, sweets, and crackers.

At the commencement of the programme the Rev. Alfred Hardy, of Wath-on-D&arne, welcomed the children, wished them a Happy Christmas, and related some interesting stories of his experiences as a missionary in foreign lands.

At the conclusion the Rev. C. Steele thanked the donors of the treat, and called for three cheers, which were lustily given, and the children themselves concluded a very successful entertainment by a vigorous rendering of the National Anthem.

From You Tube: