Camping on the Bury

We have many fine walks around the village but one of the favourites must be Uley Bury with its wonderful views and peaceful surroundings.

However, it has not always been quite as peaceful as you will see from the following report taken from the Dursley Gazette dated 11^th August, 1916.

“On Saturday last some three dozen lads connected with the North Street (Birmingham) Westleyan Mission Brigade commenced a week's camp on the historic Bury, and, having regard to the sweltering heat of the past few days, there is no doubt that many local residents envied them their stay in such cool & breezy quarters. Captain Austin is in command of the lads, assisted by two lieutenants.

The lads detrained at Dursley on Saturday night, and headed by their Bugle band, marched to Uley, being met at the entrance to the village by the P.S.A. (Pleasant Sunday Afernoon) Band, who played them into camp.

The usual routine of camp life has been faithfully followed and the lads appear to have enjoyed their stay under canvas. Exercises and drills have taken place each day, interspersed with games & rambles. The lads occupy seven tents and the catering has been entrusted to villagers. Much interest has been aroused by the visit and large numbers of people have visited the camp.

On Sunday morning the lads attended service at the Uley United Church, when the pastor (the Rev. F.G. Harrison) was the preacher. In the evening the lads, headed by their Bugle band, marched to the South Street Chapel for the usual service. One of the lieutenants was the preacher and Mr Lapworth rendered two solos. Sankey's hymns were sung, the lads joining in the singing.

A demonstration by the Brigade in the field of Mr Eustace (an ex-army man) on Tuesday evening attracted between 200 and 300 spectators, a small charge being made for admission. The lad's showed their skill in ambulance work, evolutions, and dumb-bell exercise, their work greatly pleased the audience. Mr Eustace responded to an invitation to review the lads, who accomplished the match past. “

Margaret Groom, Uley Society Village Archivist