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a campaign to quell defeatism and foster 'joie de vivre' would be
welcomed for its beneficial repercussions on the public health.
In recording the success which has been achieved by the Council
during the period of over 30 years as a Public Health Authority it is
naturally regretted that the attempt at tidying Local Government
anticipated under the National Health Service Act, 1946, will deprive
the Council as a body of many of its responsibilities. If, however, equal
interest and enthusiasm, combined with a wide outlook, are directed
towards the use and development of the new administrative machinery,
further successes can be hoped for and should result in an improved
standard of public health. Already difficulties and weaknesses can be
foreseen, but unless our aptitude and interest in central and local government
deteriorate seriously opportunities lie ahead for greater achievements
than in the past.
In concluding I would like, as usual, to express my appreciation and
thanks to all who have co-operated in the health services to the benefit
of the public. These are too numerous to mention here but I must include
special reference to the Senior Health Visitor for the steady and progressive
work of her team and the assistance she has given in recording
their work for this Report, and also to my late colleague and Chief
Sanitary Inspector, Mr. Buxton. One could not have wished for a more
loyal or pleasant colleague. His reliability, tact, humour and sound
judgment were always a source of strength to the Department and I
shall ever remember with gratitude and pleasure our 15 years of completely
harmonious co-operation. In welcoming and thanking his successor
for his assistance I can only hope that our relationship will be as equally
happy as it promises to be. Finally, my thanks to my previous Chief
Clerk and present part-time assistant who has not only worked very hard
at preparing this Report but has cheerfully endeavoured to inspire
efficiency, courtesy and loyal sympathetic service in the office during the
almost complete double change of staff which has occurred these last
two years.
I am, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient servant,
F. R. EDBROOKE,
Medical Officer of Health.