Arborfield
Local History Society

 The 'Mercury' and the Home Front in WW1

Anti-Vermin Garments

(from  17th August 1918)

ANTI-VERMIN GARMENTS

Mrs. Beatrix M. Simonds, of Farley Hill, writes to the Editor:-

"The Surgical Department of Q.M.H.S. has requested me to take over a depot for the carbolizing of anti-vermin garments for our soldiers. Vermin bring some of the worst diseases associated with campaigning, and do much to reduce the effectiveness of the Army.

"I am accordingly anxious to make known as widely as possible in this district the Army's great and incessant need of anti-vermin garments, because the knowledge of that need will, I am sure, bring prompt assistance; indeed, no one can realise it and be indifferent.

"Our soldiers have the most urgent and immediate need of carbolized vests and pants. These garments bring them comparative freedom from vermin, and keep them in good health and good spirits.

"Soldiers write home to say that nothing they receive helps them more than the anti-vermin clothes. The material, though bought wholesale, is costly. The garments having been roughly shaped by machinery, the making up is simple, only demanding steady work with hand or machine.

"I appeal to those who have the soldiers' health and comfort at heart to help us buy material, and to secure helpers to make it up.

"Will any who have money or time to spare write to Lady Hermon-Hodge, Wyfold Court, near Reading; Miss Allfrey, Farley Castle, near Reading; or to myself (Mrs) Beatrix M. Simonds, hon. secretary, No. 2. Carbolizing Depot, Farley Hill, near Reading."

Back to WW1 Local Life Page

Back to WW1 Fund Raising Page

Back to WW1 Main Page

Back to Memories Page