Military Tribunals – Thomas BYRD

Mr J Wythen Roberts appeared for Thomas Byrd, Junior, farmer and fruit grower, Aldington, farming 42 acres of land at Aldington and asked for absolute exemption. He said that before the war Mr Byrd had three men, now he only had one. Last year he had an enormous difficulty in getting his fruit gathered. He kept cattle and a quantity of poultry. He usually had three milking cows, but now only had one and he supplied milk in the neighbourhood. In reply to the Chairman, Mr Byrd said if he had to go it would be impossible for his man to see to his cows and market the produce under the superintendence of his wife, because his man would not understand dealing and buying and selling. His man was 60 years of age and he employed no women. He had 5 acres of plantation and also looked after his father's poultry.

Mr J Wythen Roberts (Messrs Smith & Roberts) appeared for Thomas Byrd Junior, Aldington, a farmer and fruit grower with 45 acres of land, including meadow and mixed orcharding. Mr Cholmondeley cross-examined applicant with a view of showing that he personally did little or no work. [Evesham Journal]

Thomas Byrd, Junior (36), farmer and fruit grower, Aldington, farming 45 acres of land, was represented by Mr Wythen Roberts. Previous to the war, Mr Byrd said he kept three men, and now he only kept one over 60 years of age, the other two having joined the Army. His wife had no knowledge of the business, and could not look after it, and it was impossible for him to obtain a substitute. He had a petrol engine with which he did chaff-cutting – his man knew nothing about this engine. His father was over 80, and too old to look after his interests. Mr Cholmondeley questioned appellant at some length, and suggested that all the work on the land was done by the old man and not by him. Mr Byrd said the old man helped him, and he also employed casual labour. If he had to go he would have to arrange a sale and shut up the place. Exemption granted until December 1st final. [Evesham Standard]