London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972

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Southgate 1956

[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Southgate]

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Swimming Bath.

The figures for attendances at the Barrowell Green Open Air Swimming Bath for the last two years were:—

19551956
Adults (Mixed and Spectators)26,0418,242
Children (Mixed and Spectators)45,69721,632
From Schools2,0583,092
Season Tickets7,6929,456
81,48842,422
Costumes, etc., hired22839

The arrangements whereby samples of the water in the swimming
bath are taken at regular intervals has been continued. The
results of the samples taken during 1956 were satisfactory in every
case. In order that the public might be reassured as to the quality
of the water, reports on the samples taken, couched in general
terms, were displayed at the Bath.
Attendance at the Bath of members of the St. John Ambulance
Brigade during crowded sessions has been continued. This assistance
is greatly appreciated.
I can add nothing to the remarks which I made in my previous
Annual Report regarding the usefulness of our Open-air Swimming
Bath, not only as a very pleasant amenity, but as a truly healthgiving
service. I am always delighted to visit the Bath and to see
the excellent manner in which the premises are being maintained.
Flooding.
As the Council will be aware, considerable flooding took place
in parts of the Borough on three occasions as a result of the
abnormally heavy rains which occurred during the summer of
1956. All possible measures were taken to safeguard public health
on each occasion.
Rivers and Streams.
Apart from the matter of flooding referred to above, there is
nothing particular to report under this heading. One complaint
was received during the year concerning a minor nuisance from
Pymmes Brook and was immediately dealt with.
Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949.
During 1956, 382 complaints of rats and mice were received
and dealt with, as against 531 in 1955.
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