The following appeared in the town’s newspaper of June 2, 1917

Private Robert Ferguson, Canadians, formerly plumber with Mr Dale here, and of the Dairy, Kings Road, was in Beith this week. He was wounded in the leg in France last September and has been recuperating since. Six years ago, with his sisters, he emigrated to Winnipeg, and, like many others of our townsmen in the Dominion, when war broke out, hastened to put his services at the Motherland’s disposal. He has passed through many fierce engagements and was wounded in the battle of the Somme.

Corporal James Roy, SAI, who was with General Smuts in the German East African campaign, was home on four days leave this week. He is the son of Mrs Roy, Eglinton Street, and leaves in a few days for France. His brother was recently killed.

 Rev James Baillie is to be inducted in his new charge at Sanquar on Thursday first and will take farewell of Mitchell Street congregation on Sabbath.

 The scholars of Gateside School have this week sent 14/- as a collection to the Overseas Club for tabacco etc for the soldiers and sailors.

 The flitting term on Monday was in this district the quietest on record. This no doubt was in great measure caused by the scarcity of vacant dwellinghouses and in part to the reluctance of tenants to vacate their premises until more peaceful times arise. Several businesses in Beith have, however, closed through the exigencies of the war, and quite a number of shops are empty and waiting occupation.

 Thomas Herbertson, North Ayrshire Garage, Beith, advises that owing to recent petrol restrictions motor car hiring for any purpose is impossible at present. Due notice will be given when resumption is possible.

 At a meeting of No 65 Ayrshire Beith Boy Scouts on Monday, Rev James Baillie tendered his resignation as Scoutmaster and expressed his great privilege he had in working with the boys. The committee regret very much his leaving the town as his services were much appreciated. Mr C B Ramsay was then appointed Mr Baillie’s successor and it is to be hoped that the troop will rally in style round the new Scoutmaster. There will be a full turnout of Scouts on Saturday to give Mr Baillie a good send off to his new charge, and there will also be a church parade on Sunday evening.