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

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Surbiton 1906

[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Surbiton]

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absorbing excess of moisture besides being very beautiful
; we ought to have far more in our roads than we
have at present, and they should be allowed to grow
and develop and receive more attention. Some
years ago public opinion led to trees being planted
in many of the thoroughfares, but they were never
properly cared for, and mostly died from excessive
mutilation and from drought. Look how Eastbourne,
Folkestone, Bournemouth, and many other
places plant and cultivate, and what attractions
these trees in time become. Witness also the outcry
about the mutilation of the plane trees on the
Victoria Embankment.
Another point in this same direction, and one
for valetudinarians. The old Commissioners in their
wisdom and consideration erected seats in many
places in the district; half way up all the hills:—
Brighton Boad, St. Mark's, Waggon and Horses, and
Oak Hill Path, and here and there along the roads,
but some few years ago these were objected to in
certain quarters on the grounds of their so-called
abuse, and they were done away with in a wholesale
manner, and the many, comprising old people,
invalids, convalescents, weaklings, tired folk, nurses
and children, were largely deprived of this benefit to
satisfy the outcry of the few as to a supposed misuse.
Either these resting places are desirable or they are
not, and if. desirable, as I strongly maintain they
are, and I am certain I carry medical opinion with
me, their abuse is a police matter and one well
within their control. Most convalescents out for
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