Fluoridation of Watford’s water supply over the past 11 years has resulted in a “phenomenal” decrease in tooth decay among the town’s children.

This was revealed by the Secretary of State for Social Services, Mr Richard Crossman, at a conference on Wednesday.

The findings of the effects of fluoride in the town’s water are contained in a 43-page report released by the committee of research into fluoridation.
Mr Crossman described the report as “scientifically sensational”.

It reveals, particularly on figures based on the Watford area, that roughly half the tooth decay among children could be prevented if there was a national policy of fluoridation.

This would mean a reduction of 3½ million fillings for children’s teeth a year and a saving to the State of nearly £2½ million.

[From the Watford Observer of July 11, 1969]  

 

A miniature railway could be the thin end of the wedge for introducing the type of development which could ruin the pleasant, natural, rural character of the Aquadrome, Councillor R.E. Groves thinks.

At Rickmansworth Council meeting on Tuesday he said the railway was a relatively small item and went on: “But once you start, you will say let’s have something else and then something else, and finish up with something approaching a fun fair or holiday camp facilities.”

Other members disagreed and thought a miniature railway could be provided without detracting from the rural character, and at the same time be an added attraction for children.

The Open Spaces Committee recommended in view of the council’s policy for retaining the rural atmosphere, that the suggestion for a miniature railway should not be entertained.

[From the Watford Observer of July 1, 1966]

 

A campaign now on to “Save the Cock” at Sarratt is not needed, say the brewers, who own it – because nothing is going to happen to the pub.

Next month, landlord Bert Moore, now 75, is retiring, and rumours have spread that the historical pub might be structurally altered and that beer will no longer be served in the traditional way from handpumps.

Local members of the Campaign for Real Ale, which has made The Cock its pub of the month, met there last week ready to join the regulars in a campaign to preserve the pub as it is.

But the day afterwards, a press officer for Ind Coope, which owns the pub, categorically denied any changes were planned.

Incoming tenant Mr Ted Daniel says he will not be changing The Cock’s character. “These rumours are so unfounded. There will be very little change and if there is any, it will be for the better.”

It is thought that The Cock could date back as far as the 12th Century. It is said to have a secret passage, going back to the Wars of the Roses, said to run two miles to Rosehall Farm. The pub is even supposed to have a ghost.

[From the Watford Observer of July 5, 1974]