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107
registered by districts abutting on the Lea are in good condition, and are
seldom occupied other than by males.
The work done under this Act is annually supervised by H.M. Inspector
of Canal Boats.
GIPSIES.
During the year there were 421 vans seen and removed. This entailed
785 visits to a class of people that I have yet to learn are any good to the
community, and do not even pay rates or taxes which the cottager cannot very
well escape.
The following lands have been dealt with during the year to prevent them
encamping thereon, and to give the tenants, who live in the houses adjoining,
a little peace.
Brettenham Road and
Cavendish Road
Brettenham Road and
Lawrence Road
Brettenham Road and
Montagu Road
Montagu Road, adjoining
level crossing
Eastbournia Avenue
St. Malo Avenue
Corner of Firs Lane
Granville Avenue
Causeyware Road
Brookfield Road
Trenches made to prevent their vans
crossing on to the land.
„ „
„ „
„ „
„ „
„ „
„ „
„ „ & since fenced off
Iron fence fixed.
Gate fixed.
Whatever is done seems of little effect, as they soon find other lands to
encamp on, and the fencing of lands prevents the children of the resident
population from enjoying an open space to play on. We have received many
complaints as to the gipsies' filthy language and habits.
Why some legislation has not been brought to deal effectively with these
people passes my comprehension. It is a known fact throughout the country
that they are a serious nuisance, and it is especially so in Middlesex. Proper
registration would bring them into line, and a tax on them should be levied.
SMOKE NUISANCES.
There were a great many observations taken during the year, and 19
nuisances abated. One serious nuisance occurred from two blacksmith's fires.
However, the owner eventually had the forges taken down and rebuilt under