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22
Severe frosts in the early part of the year caused considerable
damage to water fitments. Steps have been taken in existing
conveniences to minimise the effects of future cold weather, and as
far as possible, apparatus less liable to damage by frost is being
specified for new buildings.
Conveniences continue to be damaged by maliciously disposed
persons and there has been some success in tracing the culprits.
LAUNDRY FOR THE AGED SICK.
The scheme for the laundering of bedding from aged and
incontinent persons, where it is not possible to use ordinary
facilities, was launched in April 1954 and was used in 1956 to a
greater extent than in the preceding year. The bedding is collected
from the homes of persons concerned, laundered by the Sidcup
Hospital Management Committee and returned.
During 1956, the service was provided for a total of six aged
ladies, in most cases for substantial periods. It has been much
appreciated.
LABORATORY SERVICE.
Medical specimens are sent to the Public Health Laboratory
at Maidstone.
In cases of urgency specimens are examined at the Bromley
Hospital Laboratory, and I am indebted to Dr. Keall and his staff
for this assistance.

The number of specimens of fasces sent for examination is
greatly in excess of that for the previous year. The increase was
largely occasioned by investigations carried out to control dysentery
and food poisoning.
Through the co-operation of Dr. Randall of Orpington
Hospital, copies of numerous reports on similar specimens
submitted by local practitioners, were also made available to me.