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(Councillor Walter Hazell, J.P.) arranged to hold a Baby Show, and presented
prizes and certificates to about 60 of the best infants between 6 and 12 months
old. These 60 were selected by the Lady Sanitary Inspector from infants of the
working classes born between October 1st, 1911, and March 31st, 1912, and
brought up in the Borough.
They consisted of the following divisions:—
(1.) 20 babies, 9-12 months old. Naturally fed to at least the 8th month.
(2.) 20 babies, 6-9 months old. Naturally fed to at least the 6th month.
(3.) 10 babies, 6-12 months old. Brought up on Prepared Milk.
(4.) 10 twins (5 pairs), 6-12 months old.
Mrs. Florence Willey, M.S., M.D., and Miss Elizabeth Bolton, M.D., B.S.
kindly consented to act as Judges and two Lady Sanitary Inspectors of neighbouring
Boroughs kindly assisted in the weighing of the babies, etc.
The points taken into consideration were:—(1) weight; (2) teeth and bone
development generally; (3) cleanliness, including condition of skin, freedom from
abrasions, etc.; (4) suitability of clothing; (5) general fitness, condition of muscles,
colour, vitality, etc.
All that obtained full marks were counted first class. Those who failed to
obtain full marks in one or two tests were counted second class, and all below this
standard third class.
The first prizes consisted of woolly garments (dresses, coats and shawls), the
second prizes of woolly boots and caps, and the third prizes babies' socks. All
also received a certificate. The prizes and certificates were given by the Mayoress,
Mrs. Hazell. A number of members of the Public Health Committee were
present, and in addition to the Mayor, the Chairman of the Public Health Committee
(The Eev. W. H. Davies, M.A.), and the Medical Officer of Health gave
short addresses. Tea for the mothers of the babies was also provided by the
Mayor.
(5) Dinner Tickets for Poor, Deserving Mothers.
In order to encourage a continuance of breast feeding amongst a number of
poor, deserving mothers, 15 dozen dinner tickets were distributed to enable such
mothers to obtain a sixpenny dinner at a restaurant in the Borough. The Mayor,
Councillor Walter Hazell, J.P., also paid for these tickets which were by arrangement
secured at a reduced rate.