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since 1925, when the population was much lower and
therefore, more subject to chance fluctuation.
Infectious diseases presented no outstanding feature
with the exception of a rise in the puerperal pyrexia rate.
No changes were made in the staff of the Public Health
Department during the year.
I wish to offer my thanks to the Chairman and
Members of the Public Health Committee for their helpful
co-operation and I have again to record my appreciation
of the energy and ability with which the staff have carried
out their work. My thanks are especially due to
Mr. Tunbridge, your Chief Sanitary Inspector, in this
connection.
I am,
Mr. Mayor, Aldermen and Councillors,
Your obedient Servant,
JAMES FANNING,
Medical Officer of Health.
GENERAL INFORMATION.
Situation.—About ten miles south of Charing Cross,
in the County of Surrey, bounded by Richmond Park,
Wimbledon Common, Merton, Worcester Park, Surbiton
and Kingston-upon-Thames, the greater part of the
District lying between the Hogsmill River and Beverley
Brook.
Much of the District lies on London clay, the exceptions
being the higher parts of Coombe, a broad strip of
land adjoining the Hogsmill River, and portions of New
Maiden.
The sub-soil of Coombe is chiefly gravel.
New Maiden and Maiden are approximately 40-50
feet above sea level, whilst the ground rises to Coombe,
the highest parts being 175 feet above sea level.
Social Conditions.—The District is chiefly residential,
the majority of the inhabitants being employed