REPORTS OF THE MEDICAL OFFICER OF HEALTH PUBLIC HEALTH INSPECTOR AND ENGINEER AND SURVEYOR for the Year ending 31st December, 1969 TELEPHONE Preston 77222 With the Compliments of the MEDICAL OFFICER OF HEALTH COUNCIL OFFICES, 166 GARSTANG ROAD, RJLWOOD. Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2017 with funding from Wellcome Library https://archive.org/details/b29212790 Chairman of Council: Councillor L. H. Cartwright Members Councillor J. H. C. Allen (resigned 19-5-69) Councillor W. C. Attwater Councillor J. R. Bushby Councillor J. Chadwick Councillor T. G. Green Councillor N. K. Green Councillor H. J. Gillett Councillor W. Heaps Councillor Mrs. M. E. Horam Councillor L. P. Thornber (from 20-5-69) of Council: Councillor J. Hothersall Councillor Mrs. N. M. Howard, J.P. Councillor T. C. Nicholson, J.P. Councillor C. E. Rigby Councillor J. A. Speed, O.B.E. (resigned 19-5-69) Councillor D. Thompson (from 20-5-69) Councillor E. I. Whalley Councillor C. R. Wheeler Councillor A. J. Whittall Public Health and General Purposes Committee: Chairman: Councillor T. C. Nicholson, J.P. Vice-Chairman: Councillor W. C. Attwater Councillor J. R. Bushby Councillor L. H. Cartwright Councillor H. J. Gillett Councillor T. G. Green Councillor N. K. Green Councillor W. Heaps Members of Committee: Councillor Mrs. N. M. Howard, J.P. Councillor Mrs. M. E. Horam Councillor C. E. Rigby Councillor J. A. Speed, O.B.E. Councillor L. P. Thornber Councillor C. R. Wheeler Councillor A. J. Whittall Medical Officer of Health: J. Walker, M.B., Ch.B.JD.P.H., L.D.S., D.P.D. Other Appointments: Divisional Medical Officer of Health, Lancs C.C. No. 4 Division and Medical Officer of Health to the Borough of Chorley, the Urban Districts of Adlington, Longridge, Withnell, Leyland and Walton-le-Dale and the Rural Districts of Preston and Chorley. Deputy Medical Officer of Health: N. T. W. Pover, L.R.C.S., L.R.F.P.S., I.M.S.S.A., D.P.H. Also Senior Assistant Divisional Medical Officer of Health. Public Health Inspector: K. W. McFarlane, M.A.P.H.I. Assistant Public Health Inspector: F. Swinson, M.A.P.H.I. (to 31-3-69). I. R. Foster, MA.P.H.I. (from 12-5-69). General Assistant: J. L. Singleton. Clerk and Shorthand Typist: Mrs. J. Davies (to 2-5-69). Mrs. S. Hargreaves (from 28-4-69). REPORT OF THE MEDICAL OFFICER OF HEALTH For the year ended 31st December, 1969 To the Chairman and Members of the Council, Mr. Chairman and Members, I have much pleasure in presenting the Annual Report on the Health and Sanitary Circum- stances of the district for the year ended 31st December, 1969. The Registrar General’s estimate of the population of the district at Mid June, 1969 was 19,880 which is an increase of 520 over the previous year. The number of live births assignable to the district was 241 (7 of which were illegitimate) which is 54 fewer than in 1968. The crude birth rate for the year was 12.1 (adjusted 12.7) per 1000 estimated population. The birth rates for England and Wales and the County of Lancashire were 16.3 and 16.9 (adjusted 17.2) respectively. It is pleasing to note that there has been a further decrease in the number of illegitimate live births from 10 to 7. The number of deaths assigned to the district for the year 1969 was 279 which is 17 fewer than in the previous year. The crude death rate was 14.0 (adjusted 8.5) per 1000 estimated population. The adjusted figure takes into account the fact that the population of the district comprises a very high proportion of elderly persons. The death rates for the Country as a whole and for Lancashire were 11.9 and 12.4 (adjusted 13.4) respectively. The Registrar General provides a table giving the cause of death in age groups and this table is reproduced in the report. From this it will be seen that 156 of the 279 deaths occurred in persons 75 years of age or over (20 of these were over 90) and a further 66 were between 65 and 75 years of age. These two groups together account for 222 or 79% of the total 279 deaths. In regard to causes of death, the number who died from malignant disease decreased by 10, from 47 to 37 with cancer of the lung deaths 10 the same as last year. Deaths from heart diseases number 112 a decrease of 15 compared with 1968, but those from Ischaemic heart disease (coronary disease) increasd from 76 to 84. Cerebrovascular disease (strokes) accounted for 53 deaths as com- pared with 44 in 1968. Only one death of an infant under one year of age was recorded in 1969 compared with 2 in 1968. This gives an Infantile Mortality Rate of 4.0 per 1000 live births. The corresponding figures for England and Wales and the County of Lancashire are 18.0 and 19.0 respectively. It is pleasing to report that for the sixth year in succession there were no deaths arising from childbirth — a high tribute to the standard of medical and nursing care provided for the District. The number of cases of infectious diseases notified during the year was 180 compared with 147 in 1968, 138 of these notifications came from outbreaks of dysentery (73 cases) which affected some of the schools in the early part of the year, and food poisoning (65 cases) which affected elderly residents at an old persons hostel in August. The incidence of measles shows a considerable decrease 28 compared with 115 the previous year. Reference was made in my last report to the introduction of the vaccination scheme against measles and parents of children who had not had measles were urged to take advantage of this. Unfortunately, supplies of the vaccine became short and the scheme did not get going properly. Supplies have recently improved, however, and it is hoped that parents will now have their children protected against measles so that this disease may be eradicated as has been prac- tically so in several other infectious diseases. Vaccination against measles involves one injection only and is available from general medical practitioners, welfare centres and school clinics. been taken by the Council to continue the implementation of the Clean Air Act, which was begun in 1966 but is now deferred. Considering the health and amenity value of clean air it is to be hoped that the programme can be re-commenced as soon as possible. Food Hygiene, in the various food premises in the district, meat inspection and milk sampling have taken up a considerable amount of the staffs time during the year. In regard to milk sampling, particular attention has been paid to sampling for brucella infection which if present in milk can cause undulent fever in man. Pasteurisation renders the milk safe for consumption. The need for the control of environmental pollution is now becoming appreciated and Public Health Departments will undoubtedly play an increasingly important part in this essential work. I am indeed grateful to Mr. McFarlane and the staff for their willing assistance and co-oper- action at all times. My thanks are also due to other officers and staff for their ready help whenever this is required. I must also express my sincere thanks to the Chairman and Members of the Council for their continued support and encouragement. I have the honour to be. Your obedient servant, J. WALKER, Medical Officer of Health. Physical Characteristics of the Area The area of the Urban District is oblong in shape. The highest point of the area is in the North East being 190 feet above sea level, and the lowest point in the South West being 55 feet above the datum line. Gentle rises and falls characterise the district. There are four streams flowing through the area, from East to West. These are:—Sharoe Brook, Boundary Brook, Savick Brook and Eaves Brook. Eaves Brook forms the Southern boundary of the district and separates the Urban District from the County Borough of Preston. The Savick Brook is the largest of the four and also the most rapid in its flow, and after heavy rain it frequently overflows its banks and floods the adjoining lands. Geologically the area is a part of the Lancashire Plain which is floored with red rock of the Triassic age (examples of these rocks can be seen at the base of the cliffs at Blackpool). Most of this floor is impermeable, but there is a fault of Bunter Sandstone which runs from South East to North West through part of the district and is considered to be water bearing. Superficial to the rock base there are three layers of Glacial Drift varying in depth from 90 to 130 feet — the Lower Boulder Clay, the Drift Sand and the Upper Boulder Clay. The thickness of the individual layers varies considerably in different parts of the district. In the North Eastern portion there are many bluffs or hillocks composed entirely of Drift Sand with a covering of Upper Boulder Clay of varying thick- ness. Some of these bluffs have, on the contrary, a central core of clay and a surround of sand. All the bluffs rest upon a base of lower Boulder Clay many feet in thickness. Towards the Western side of the district, the Upper Boulder Clay Layer is above 20 feet in thickness, resting upon sand of up to 30 feet in depth with a layer of Lower Boulder Clay underneath, which varies considerably in thickness. The Triassic Rock Layer is raised above the existing sea level but forms an inclined plane rising to the Pennines. The Glacial Drift Layers above this rock layer sometimes reach a depth of 170 feet. 3 In the drift layers, pebbles and boulders are found, consisting of Yoredale Grits, Limestone, Lakeland Traps, Granites and Volcanic Ash brought down from the Lakeland mountains by ice movement. Occasionally granite from Criffel on the North side of the Solway may be found. Water bearing seams occur at the surface of the Lower Boulder Clay and on thin beds of clay in the Middle Drift. Statistics of the Area Area in Acres 3,164 Population (Census 1931) 7,387 Population (Census 1951) 13,087 Population (Census 1961) 15,966 Registrar General’s Estimate of Population Mid 1969 .... 19,880 Number of inhabited houses (Census 1951) 3,664 Number of inhabited houses (Census 1961) 5,029 Number of inhabited houses (Rate book 1969) 6,668 Rateable value at 1st April, 1969 £703,295 Sum represented by a penny rate £2,815 Social Conditions and Amenities of the District There were no major changes in the social conditions and amenities of the district during the year under review. Development of private housing estates continued in several areas, but the amount of land scheduled for building purposes in Fulwood is gradually being used up. The elderly residents of the district are well catered for with two large hostels and the two council sites of bungalows and flats with community centres and resident wardens. Lancashire County Council operate two branch libraries in Fulwood. One in Garstang Road, serving the Northern part of the district, the other serving the Southern area in Sharoe Green Lane. A wide variety of sports and recreation is available to Fulwood residents including a very active Over 60’s Club. There is an old established Golf Club, tennis club and private bowling club in the district. Several amateur football clubs are active in local leagues, and a well known cricket club has its ground on the northern boundary of the district. There are two large playing fields in Fulwood, situated in Garstang Road and Cadley Cause- way. These are Council owned and maintained and both have been equipped with a children’s playing area. During the year the Council have also acquired another large area of land, off Conway Drive which is intended to be laid out for playing fields with a variety of sports being accommodated. Local organisations hold lectures and discussions on many subjects both local and national, and have drama, music and other sections. A comprehensive course of evening classes is also held in two of the County Council Schools. The school clinic and child welfare centre in Lytham Road militates against ill health in pro- viding dental, opthalmic and antenatal treatment in addition to the usual medico-social services which guard against disease through health education and preventive medicine. The clinic is open one morning each week for cervical cytology tests and an orthodontist holds a clinic one day per week. Fulwood Civic Ball This annual social event organised by the Chairman of the Council, Councillor L. H. Cart- wright during his term of office, was held in November at the Bull and Royal Hotel, Preston. It was attended by Civic guests from surrounding districts, who enjoyed an excellent dinner and dance, and several charities benefited from the proceeds. Old People’s Welfare As in previous years the Old Peoples Welfare Committee continued its very useful work under the Chairmanship of Mrs. N. M. Howard. Of special value were the many visits made to older people, who through ill health or disability were unable to do their own shopping. The Voluntary Visiting Panel were able to give valuable assistance in these cases. Help in many ways was given by the older girls of both Fulwood County Secondary, and Blessed Cuthbert Mayne Secondary Schools, who took an interest in the old people and arranged a visiting service of their own. The Annual party for the housebound was held in May in the Galloway Hall, when over 70 people attended. Transport was provided to and from their homes, and the children from Fulwood County Primary School provided the entertainment. In September residents of the Civic Hostel and Little Sisters of the Poor Home were invited to a party, also at Galloway Hall, when the entertain- ment was provided by the pupils of Blessed Cuthbert Mayne Secondary School. The Thursday Lunch Club which was first started the previous year continued to be very popular. A good membership enjoy well cooked meals prepared by the W.R.V.S. The Womens Voluntary Service also operated the Meals on Wheels service throughout the year, with cooked meals being delivered three times a week to the homes of old and handicapped persons at a nominal charge. The Council subsidises part of the cost. During the year the Preston Lions Organisation supplied the W.R.V.S. with a new delivery van for this service. The very active Over 60’s Club continued with its various functions throughout the year, these include whist drives, bingo, concerts and dancing. Special outings and ‘out of season’ holidays at cheap rates were enjoyed by many of the members. The total number of bungalows and flats available on the Mill Lane and Poole Road estates is 96, and these accommodate well over a hundred elderly persons, with their welfare being looked after by three resident wardens. Mrs. E. Mairs keeps a watchful eye over all proceedings on the Poole Road Estate. The Mill Lane Estate is served by two wardens, Mrs. R. Tickle being in charge of one half of the site throughout the year. A change in staff occurred with the other half of the site, Mrs. E. Barton Resigned in October, and was replaced by Mrs. A. Parkinson. The Community Centres at both sites are well used by the residents with various functions being held. Local tradesmen provide a regular service with their mobile food shops, and with other shopkeepers delivering orders the residents are well catered for. The Abbeyfield Housing Society also provided accommodation for elderly persons. One house is available under the scheme, and houses six persons who are provided with the two main meals each day, prepared by the resident warden. A weekly full board charge is made for this. This scheme makes a useful contribution to the welfare of the aged. Vital Statistics Births Live Births M. F. Total Legitimate .... 123 Ill 234 Illegitimate 3 4 7 126 115 241 Birth rate per 1,000 population: Crude 12.1 Adjusted 12.7 Illegitimate Live Births per cent of total live births 3.0 Still Births M. F. Total Legitimate 2 0 2 Illegitimate 0 0 0 2 0 2 Still birth rate per 1,000 (live and still births) 8.0 Comparability factor for births 1.05 M. F. Total Total Live and Still births 128 115 243 Deaths M. F. Total Total Deaths 141 138 279 Death rate per 1,000 estimated population: Crude 14.0 Adjusted 8.5 Comparability factor — for deaths 0.61 Infant Deaths Deaths of infants under one year 1 Infant Mortality Rate Total infant deaths per 1,000 total live births 4.0 Legitimate infant deaths per 1,000 legitimate live births 4.0 Illegitimate infant deaths per 1,000 illegitimate live births Nil Neo-Natal Mortality Rate Deaths of infants under 4 weeks of age .... 1 Mortality rate per 1,000 total live births .... 4.0 Early Neo-Natal Mortality Rate Deaths of infants under 1 week 1 Mortality rate per 1,000 total live births 4.0 Perinatal Mortality Rate Stillbirths and deaths under 1 week combined per 1,000 live and still births 12.0 Maternal Mortality (including Abortion) Number of deaths Nil Rate per 1,000 total live and still births Nil Other Mortalities Deaths from Cancer (all sites, all ages) .... 37 AN ANALYSIS OF THE CAUSES OF DEATH, 1969 CAUSE OF DEATH Sex Total All Ages AG E IN YEARS Under 4 weeks 1- 5- 15- 25- 35- 45- 55- 65- 75 and over Other Infective and Parasitic Diseases .. M 2 2 F Malignant Neoplasm, Stomach M 3 1 2 F 1 — 1 — Malignant Neoplasm, Intestine .. M 2 1 1 — F 4 — — — — — 1 — — 2 1 Malignant Neoplasm, Lung, Bronchus .. M 8 — — — — — 1 1 4 2 — F 2 1 — 1 Malignant Neoplasm, Breast F 7 -3 — — — — 1 — 3 2 1 Malignant Neoplasm, Uterus F 1 1 Malignant Neoplasm, Prostate M 1 — — — — — — — 1 — — Leukaemia .. M 1 1 F 1 1 Other Malignant Neoplasms M 2 2 — F 4 — — — — — — 1 — 1 2 Diabetes Mellitus .. M 2 2 F 1 1 — Anaemias M 1 1 F Chronic Rheumatic Heart Disease M 1 1 F 5 2 1 2 Ischaemic Heart Disease .. M 45 — — — — — 1 3 13 12 16 F 39 1 8 30 Other Forms of Heart Disease M 10 1 9 F 12 1 11 Cerebrovascular Disease M 26 — — — — — 1 — 3 7 15 F 27 1 8 18 Other Diseases of Circulatory System .. M 6 2 4 F 4 4 Pneumonia M 7 7 F 11 — — — — — — 1 1 2 7 Bronchitis and Emphysema M 10 — — — — — — — 1 6 3 F 3 — — — — — 1 — 2 — — Other Diseases of Respiratory System .. M F 1 1 Peptic Ulcer.. M 1 1 — F Intestinal Obstruction and Hernia M 1 1 F Cirrhosis of Liver M 1 1 Other Diseases of Digestive System r M 1 1 F 1 1 — Nephritis and Nephrosis .. M 1 1 F — Hyperplasia of Prostate M 3 1 2 Other Diseases, Genito-Urinary System .. M — F 2 1 — 1 Diseases of Musculo-Skeletal System M 1 1 F Congenital Anomalies M — — — — — — — — — Symptoms and Ill-Defined Conditions r M 1 3 1 1 2 F 6 1 5 Motor Vehicle Accidents M 1 — — — — — — — — 1 — F All Other Accidents M 1 1 F 4 1 — — — 1 2 Suicide and Self-Inflicted Injuries.. M 1 — — — — — — — 1 — — F TOTAL ALL CAUSES .. M 141 1 3 4 27 37 69 F 138 — 1 — — — 3 3 15 29 87 Table of Comparative Statistics PER 1,000 ESTIMATED POPULATION Maternal Mortality Rate: Per 1,000 total live and still births Infantile Mortality Rate: Deaths under 1 year per 1,000 live births Live Birth Rate Death Rate Death rate from resp. T.B. Death rate from cancer Crude Adjusted Crude Adjusted Fulwood Mean of 5 years 1959—63 1964-68 .. 17-7 16-4 180 16-6 18-2 16-4 11-4 91 007 004 2-29 200 0-60 11-8 19-0 Year 1969 .. 121 12-7 140 8-5 nil 1 -86 nil 4-0 County of Lancaster, 1969 16-9 17-2 12-4 13-4 002 2-25 0-17 19 0 England and Wales, 1969 16 3 — 11-9 — 0 022 2-35 0-19 18-0 Population In the Census of 1951 the population of Fulwood was 13,087. In the Census of 1961 the population of Fulwood was 15,966. For mid 1969 the Registrar General’s estimate of population was 19,880. This figure includes approximately 400 persons resident in the institutions in the district. Deaths and Death Rates The figures below are corrected for inward and outward transfers. The crude and adjusted death rates were 14.0 and 8.5 compared with 15.3 and 9.0 the previous year. The total number of deaths recorded during the year was 279, a decrease of 17 on the figure for 1968. The following table shows that a high proportion of the deaths were above the age of 70 years. There were 198 deaths (88 males and 110 females) in the ages above 70 years:— 42 (M. 22 F. 20.) were between 70 and 75 years. 46 (M. 30 F. 16.) „ „ 75 and 80 years. 54 (M 25. F. 29) „ „ 80 and 85 years. 36 (M. 12 F. 24) „ „ 85 and 90 years. 20 (M 2. F. 18) were over 90 years. During the year there were 107 deaths in hostels in this area (M. 45 F. 62). Neo-Natal, Early Neo-Natal and Perinatal Mortality The Registrar General in addition to supplying particulars of neo-natal mortality (deaths of infants under four weeks of age) has also supplied information as to the deaths of infants under one week of age (early neo-natal mortality) and has also included the perinatal mortality rate, i.e. the number of stillbirths and early neo-natal deaths per 1,000 live and still births. One infant death occurred under the age of one week, giving an early neo-natal mortality rate of 4.0 per 1,000 live births, compared with 3.0 for 1968. Infant Mortality There was 1 death of infants under one year compared with 2 in 1968. This gives an infant mortality rate of 4.0 as against 7.0 the previous year. The infant mortality rate for England and Wales as a whole was 18.0. The cause of death of the one infant is given below:— Male 1 hour — Prematurity. Laboratory Service Both the Public Health and Group Laboratories situated in Meadow Street, Preston, are under the directorship of Dr. L. Robertson. Bacteriological examinations of routine samples of milk, ice cream and water were continued during the year together with the biological examination of milk for the presence of tubercle bacillus and brucella organisms, and also the examination of faecal specimens and suspected foods in cases of food poisoning and dysentery. A total of 230 samples and specimens were submitted and examined during the year and re- ports subsequently issued on the results of the various tests. Chemical analyses were usually carried out by the County Analyst. Hospital Services For patients from Fulwood there are ten hospitals available. These are all under the control of the Regional Hospital Board and administered locally by the Preston and Chorley Hospital Management Committee. These are:— Preston Royal Infirmary. Sharoe Green Hospital, Fulwood. Chorley and District Hospital Eaves Lane Hospital, Chorley. Lostock Hall Continuation Hospital. Longsands Lane Continuation Hospital, Fulwood. Willows Continuation Hospital, Preston. Deepdale Isolation Hospital, Preston. Ribbleton Hospital, Preston. Heath Charnock Hospital, Chorley. Saint Joseph’s Hospital, Mount Street, Preston, a voluntary hospital for medical and surgical cases, is also available but only for some geriatric accommodation under the National Health Service. Venereal Diseases Specialised clinics are held at the Preston Royal Infirmary. Advice and treatment are free and strictly confidential. Ante-Natal Services Ante-natal clinics are provided by the Hospital Management Committee at Preston Royal Infirmary and Sharoe Green Hospital. These facilities were no doubt extensively used by women from this district, but no actual details of the numbers attending are available. An Ante-Natal Clinic was also held once a week at the Lancashire County Council Clinic, Lytham Road, Fulwood. SERVICES OF THE COUNTY COUNCIL IN THE AREA The Lancashire County Council provide the following services which are administered on their behalf by Health Division No. 4 from the Joint Divisional Office, East Cliff, Preston. Telephone: Preston 54868. Dr. J. Walker is the Divisional Medical Officer of Health. Ambulance Service. This service is controlled from the Ambulance Headquarters at Broughton House, Garstang Road. The ambulances are under radio control and deal with the whole of the area of Health Division No. 4 north of the Ribble, in which Fulwood is included. Chiropody Service. A free chiropody service is available for elderly people, registered handicapped persons and expectant mothers. A special clinic for this is held fortnightly on Tuesday afternoons at the County Council Clinic, Lytham Road. A domiciliary service is available for those who are unable to attend the clinic.. In addition to this, the Fulwood Old People’s Welfare Committee provide a chiropody clinic for elderly persons only. Sessions are held regularly at the Galloway Hall, Brackenbury Road. Treat- ment is also given in the homes of the sick and disabled. Home Help Service. Home Helps are employed in the district for a variety of cases including:— confinements, sickness, old age and infirmity. Night Helps may be employed where needed. Appli- cation for this service must be made to the Divisional Medical Officer of Health at Health Division No. 4. Domiciliary Nursing and Midwifery Two full time domiciliary midwives serve the Fulwood area. These are:— Mrs. E. P. Dillon, S.R.N., S.C.M., 38 Poole Road, Fulwood Telephone: Preston 717172. Mrs. H. M. Pownall, S.E.N., S.C.M., 18 Hurstway, Fulwood. Telephone: Preston 716168. The other nurses operating in the area are:— Mrs. L. Hayton, S.R.N., S.C.M., 7 Parkside, Lea. Telephone: Preston 29832. Miss J. Roche, S.E.N., 9 Park Walk, Fulwood. Telephone: Preston 700566. Mrs. H. M. Rawcliffe, S.R.N., S.C.M., 33 Edenway, Fulwood. Telephone: Preston 718113. Mrs. A. Wright, S.R.N., 7 Yewlands Avenue, Fulwood. Telefhone: Preston 719579. Mrs. J. Ward, S.R.N., 54 Beechwood Avenue, Fulwood. Telephone: Preston 29950. Mrs. M. Williamson, S.E.N., 20 Ansdell Grove, Ashton. Telephone: Preston 26758. Miss V. Worthington, S.E.N., S.C.M., 24 Kingsway, Ashton. Telephone Preston 26815. Child Welfare Service. There are 3 centres serving Fulwood. A doctor and health visitors are in attendance to give advice on infant care and management. Baby foods are sold at the centres. Details of attendances at the 3 centres are given below:— County Clinic, Lytham Road. This Centre was held weekly on Wednesday afternoons and the num- ber of sessions held was 52. No. attending No. of attendances Children under 1 year of age 116 1663 Children from 1 to 2 years .... 154 532 Children over 2 years 175 288 445 2483 Corresponding totals for the year 1968 were: 491 attending and 2517 attendances. Parish Hall, Broadway. This centre serves the northern part of the district and is held every Tuesday afternoon. Number of sessions held was 52. No. attending No. of attendances Children under 1 year of age 123 1720 Children from 1 to 2 years .... 113 602 Children over 2 years 123 348 359 2670 Corresponding totals for the year 1968 were: 415 attending and 2818 attendances. Fulwood East Clinic (Church of the Ascension Hall). This centre serves the eastern part of the district. It was held on the second and fourth Thursday afternoons of each month until May, after which it was only opened once a month on the 2nd Thursday afternoon, following a decision of the Divisional Health Committee as it was not being used to the same extent as when first opened in 1963. The number of sessions held was 17. No. attending No. of attendances Children under 1 year of age 13 121 Children from 1 to 2 years .... 18 64 Children over 2 years 27 53 58 238 Corresponding totals for the year 1968 were: 68 attending and 408 attendances. A diagnostic clinic for deafness, particularly in infancy, was held regularly at the County Council Clinic. School Medical Service. Medical and hygiene inspections were carried out during the year by the school nurses at the various schools in the district. Children requiring treatment for minor ailments or special examinations can receive attention at the Clinic. In addition, visits were made to the homes of children under observation where necessary. Ophthalmic, Dental and Speech Therapy Services are available at the County Council Clinic, Lytham Road for children from this area. Ante-Natal Clinic. An Ante-Natal Clinic was held at the County Council Clinic, Lytham Road once a week. The number attending during 1969 was 146 and the number of attendances was 444. The clinic is open one morning per week for cervical cytology tests, and during the year a total of 335 smears was taken. Welfare of Handicapped Persons. The Centre situated in Brackenbury Road and run by the County Council was in use from Monday to Thursday inclusive each week, as a handicraft centre for handi- capped persons. In addition to this the County Council continued to hold their Social and Handicraft centre every Friday afternoon at the William Wilding Galloway Hall in Brackenbury Road, as the other centre was not big enough to accommodate the numbers who attend this session. The Derby School for the Partially Sighted situated in Lytham Road, continued its useful work. This is a residential school for children, and there are also workshops for adults, where such articles as baskets, brushes and woollens are made. Vaccination and Immunisation. Vaccination against smallpox, poliomyelitis and measles, and immu- nisation against diphtheria, whooping cough and tetanus, are all available free of charge at the County Council Clinics. The Divisional Medical Officer supplied the following details:— VACCINATION AND IMMUNISATION against: POLIOMYELITIS, DIPHTHERIA, WHOOPING COUGH, SMALLPOX, MEASLES & TETANUS PRIMAR Y: Diphtheria Whooping Cough Tetanus Poliomyelitis Smallpox Measles 0-15 years 0-15 years 0-15 years 0-15 years 0-15 years 0-15 years 334 204 341 280 235 148 REINFORCEMENT: Diphtheria Whooping Cough Tetanus Poliomyelitis Smallpox Measles 0-15 years 0-15 years 0-15 years 0-15 years 0-15 years 0-15 years 988 44 996 510 36 — Tuberculosis. The Regional Hospital Board provides the hospital and sanatorium accommodation for patients suffering from this disease. A chest clinic for patients residing in this district is situated at Sharoe Green Hospital. The clinic is staffed by Chest Physicians with the County Council’s Tubercu- losis Visitor attached to it. The Tuberculosis Visitor is primarily engaged in home visiting to advise patients regarding their own health and the protection of other members of the family. B.C.G. vacci- nation is available to contacts on the advice of the Chest Physician at the Chest Clinic and to 13 year and older children under the School Health Service. TUBERCULOSIS TREATMENT Number of admissions to hospital or sanatorium — 3 Number of notifications of Respiratory Tuberculosis (including inward transfers) — 4 There were no cases removed from the register during the year under review. The following number of cases were on the register at the end of the year:— Respiratory Cases Non-Respiratory Cases Males Females Males Females 18 14 64 ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES Prevalence and Control of Infectious Disease The number of notifications received was 180 compared with 147 the previous year. The inci- dence of measles was low, but outbreaks of dysentery and food poisoning accounted for 138 of the notifications. Comments on some of the notifiable diseases are given below:— Scarlet Fever. This disease continues to be of a mild nature only, with cases all being nursed at home. There were 9 notifications received during 1969 as against 3 in the previous year. Whooping Cough. It is pleasing to report that no cases of whooping cough were notified during the year under review, where as there were 3 and 5 cases respectively in 1967 and 1968. Measles. Only 28 cases were notified compared with 115 in the previous year. Poliomyelitis. No cases of poliomyelitis were reported during the year. Food Poisoning and Dysentery. An outbreak of Sonnei Dysentery in the early part of the year accounted for most of the 73 notifications received. The majority of those affected were school chil- dren although the outbreak was not primarily centred on any one school. There were 65 cases of Food Poisoning notified, compared with 2 in the previous year. 63 of these were concerned in one outbreak which occurred at the Civic Hostel inWatling Street Road. Staff and trainees at the Adult Training Centre and Handicapped Persons Workshop in Preston Borough were also affected, therefore by arrangement with the Medical Officer of Health of Preston, all the combined investigations were carried out by the st aff of that authority and the following information was supplied about the Fulwood cases. Early on the 14th August several of the elderly residents of the Hostel suffered from diarrhoea and abdominal pains, although in most cases this was relatively mild, and lasted only about 6 hours, some members of the staff were also affected. The food causing the outbreak was found to be roast beef which had been cooked on the 12th August, allowed to cool slowly in the food preparation room and stored overnight on a stone slab in the pantry. The beef was sliced in the kitchen and served cold for lunch on the 13th August. From laboratory investigations of samples of food, faecal specimens from patients and swabs from the kitchen premises, it was ascertained that the causative organism was Clostriduim Welchii. Whilst the kitchen premises were undergoing thorough cleansing and disinfection for a period of 4 days, individual pre-packed frozen meals were introduced for residents. During the cleansing process all fittings such as food slicing machine and mixer were com- pletely dismantled, cleansed and disinfected. It was also arranged that all new staff appointed would receive instruction in food hygiene. Undulent Fever. Although not on the list of notifiable diseases, it is helpful if we are informed of any suspected cases, by the general practitioners, so that we can carry out investigations into the milk supply if untreated. During 1969 no such notifications were received, but the routine examina- tion of raw milk still continued. The table below gives details of notifications for the year under review:— INFECTIOUS DISEASES, 1969 Total Cases Notified Diseases Total Cases all ages Age Period s— Yeai ”S Under 1 1 2 3 4 5 10 15 25 and over Age unknown Total Deaths Scarlet Fever 9 — — — 1 — 5 2 1 — — — Measles 28 1 3 4 8 3 9 — — — — — Dysentery 73 2 3 7 4 5 18 4 7 23 — — Ophthalmia Neonatorum 1 1 — — — — — — ~~ — — — Total Cases All Ages Under 0 5 15 45 65 and over Age unknown Total Deaths Food Poisoning 65 — — 2 7 56 — — Malaria Contracted Abroad 1 — — 1 — — — — Respiratory T.B. 3 — — 2 — 1 — — TOTAL 180 MILK INSPECTION AND SUPERVISION OF FOOD There were 4 registered dairies in the district at the year end. The number of shops where bottled milk is sold totalled 19, an increase of three over the previous year. A milk vending machine is installed on the forecourt of one of the shops. Distributors retailing milk in Fulwood number 26 but 20 of these are from premises outside the district. As in previous years the regular sampling of milk continued with examinations being carried out at the Public Health Laboratory for Tuberculosis, Brucellosis, antibiotics, keeping quality and contamination. The table below gives details of raw milk samples taken during the past 5 years. A detailed account of the sampling undertaken during 1969 will be found in Mr. McFarlane’s Report. UNTREATED MILK Methylene Blue Test Tests for Tubercle Bacillus Year No. of Samples Satisfactory Percentage Satisfactory No. of Samples T.B. Present 1965 69 46 66 69 nil 1966 59 36 61 55 nil 1967 55 42 76 27 nil 1968 42 22 52 10 nil 1969 41 24 60 8 nil ICE CREAM There are 35 premises, all retail shops, registered for the sale of pre-wrapped ice cream. No manufacturing concerns are situated in this district. This commodity continues to maintain a high standard, as will be seen from the table below which gives details of the ice cream samples taken during the past 5 years. All have been within the recognised satisfactory standard of grades 1 and 2. Year No. of Samples Grade 1 Grade 2 Grade 3 Grade 4 1965 24 24 nil nil nil 1966 16 16 nil nil nil 1967 12 10 2 nil nil 1968 36 34 2 nil nil 1969 11 10 1 nil nil MEAT AND OTHER FOODS The opening of a new butchers shop in a recently completed private housing estate brings the total to 13 retail shops where butchers meat is sold. In addition to these two mobile vans operate in the district. Meat inspection and meat marking was carried out during the year at the one private slaughter- house situated in Fulwood. Details of the meat inspection service for 1969 will be found in Mr. McFarlane’s Report. THE QUALITATIVE EXAMINATION OF FOODS The County Council is the Food and Drugs authority in this area. Samples were taken by one of the County Sampling Officers (Mr. Morgans) during 1969. Details of the results of analysis were supplied by Dr. Wade, the County Medical Officer of Health. A total of 112 samples was obtained comprising 77 milks (11 of which were Channel Islands milk) and 35 others as follows:— 2 Phenoxymethyl Penicillin Tablets 2 „ „ Capsules 1 Breakfast Cereal 1 Full Fat Soft Cheese 1 Smoked Medium Fat Processed Cheese 2 Pork Sausages 2 Fresh Minced Meat 1 Cream of Mushroom Soup, canned 1 Cream of Chicken Soup, canned 1 Fresh Steak 1 Fresh Neck of Lamb 1 Toothpaste 1 Medicated Shampoo 1 Junior Diarrhoea Mixture 1 Vitamin Fortified Honey Jelly 1 Slimmers Drinking Chocolate 1 Medicated Shampoo 1 Orange Drink 3 Dairy Ice Cream Lollies 3 Ice Lollies 1 Dairy Crunch 1 Turkish Delight 1 Shandy 1 Nut Mix 1 Herb Gravy Mix 1 Angelica 1 Dairy Ice Cream Below are details of those samples on which the County Analyst gave adverse reports:— Sample Result of Analysis Action Taken Formal milk Freezing point indicates 0.5% extraneous water. Producer cautioned and further sample obtained. Smoked Medium Fat Processed Cheese Moisture 50.3% should contain not more than 48% moisture or bear a declaration of either (1) the minimum percentage milk fat in the dry matter and the maximum percentage water content or (2) the minimum percentage milk fat. Importers communicated with. Formal milk Fat 2.50%. Deficient 16.6% fat.) Dairy cautioned and further Informal milk Fat 2.50%. Deficient 16.6% fat.) samples obtained. Sample Result of Analysis Action Taken Pork, Sausages Meat content 68.5%. Contained 300 parts per Vendor cautioned million sulphite preservative (expressed as sulphur dioxide) without declaration. re preservative. Formal milk Fat 2.80%. Deficient 6.6%. Producer notified. Nut Mix 1. Acid value of extracted oil 9.4 and flavour harsh. 2. The sample appeared to consist only of ground peach kernel in which case Item 4 (3)(a) of Labelling of Food Order 1953 re- quires that the appropriate designation of the ingredients should be marked on the label. Packers communicated with. WATER SUPPLY The Preston and District Water Board is responsible for the supply of water to the Fulwood Urban District. There was no shortage of water to the area during 1969, and samples were taken regularly by the Public Health Inspector and submitted to the Public Health Laboratory for bacteriological examination. All of these maintained a high bacteriological standard, even though many complaints were received from residents of the earthy taste which made the water unpalatable. Regular samples are also taken by the water board staff and submitted to their own laboratory for bacteriological and chemical analysis. Copies of the results of these examinations are forwarded to this Authority for information. I am grateful to Mr. J. F. Bailey, the Water Engineer and Manager, for supplying the follow- ing information:— Type of Supply:—Uplands Surface. Extensions to Water Mains during the year:— (a) Renewal of mains serving existing property (b) Mains to new property .... 3" ’ dia. 8 yds. 4' ' dia. 903 yds. 6" dia. 1410 yds. 9" ’ dia. 632 yds. Total 2953 yds. 3' ’ dia. 660 yds. 4" dia. 853 yds. 6" dia. 199 yds. Total 1712 yds. (c) Mains to other development NIL The 5 million gallon service reservoir at Haighton is used almost exclusively for the supply to the Northern Areas of Fulwood. In order to avoid any possibility of contamination an aluminium barrel vault roof supported by prestressed gutter beams on reinforced concrete colums has been con- structed. This work should be completed early in 1970, after which a complete recording system and permanent new chlorination apparatus will be installed. The figures indicating the lengths of mains laid include the completion of approximately half a mile of 6' diameter pipe from the new 15" main from Haighton where it crosses Sharoe Green Lane North opposite Greystock Avenue to Lulworth Road, replacing an 80 years old small diameter pipe. Also included is the replacement of some 500 yards of 100 years old 4" diameter main in Lower Bank Road. Water Samples Taken Water going into supply where treatment is installed Taken by Local Authority Taken by Water Board .. Bacteriological Examinations Chemical Analyses No. 11 11 No. Satisfactory 11 11 No. Unsatisfactory No. 1 No. Satisfactory 1 No. Unsatisfactory TOTAL 22 22 — 1 1 — Chemical Analysis The following are details of the result of a typical chemical analysis carried out during the year:— Results expressed in parts per million:— Total solid Residue (Dried at 180° C.) .... 80.0 Oxygen required to oxydise in 15 mins 0.39 in 3 hours .... 0.85 Ammonia—Free and Saline 0.11 Ammonia—Albuminoid 0.15 Nitrogen as Nitrates 0.20 Nitrogen as Nitrites Nil Chlorides 12.0 Temporary Hardness Nil Permanent Hardness 60.0 Total Hardness 60.0 pH Value 7.4 Physical Properties Colour—6 Hazen SEWERAGE AND SEWAGE CONTROL Under the Joint Sewerage Scheme, effluent from this area is dealt with at the Preston Cor- poration Sewage Works at Freckleton. In general the sewerage system continued to operate satis- factorily throughout the year. 225 new dwellings were completed in 1969, and all were connected to main drainage. Sanitary Accommodation Nearly all properties in the district have water closets installed with drainage connected to the main sewerage system. Only the outlying rural areas have no main drainage facilities available, and in these areas the septic tank system is utilised. 20 houses still have earth or pail closets in use. Number of houses supplied with water 6,764 Number of houses on water carriage system 6,744 Number of fresh water closets 7,556 Number of privy middens 4 Number of pail closets 16 Additional houses and flats numbered 225 Public Cleansing The Engineer and Surveyor was responsible for this service, which is fully motorised, and a weekly collection for the district was in operation. 8,300 movable ashbins were cleared each week. The controlled tipping system was in operation at the tip situated in Longridge, and used jointly with Longridge Urban District Council. HOUSING General This is primarily a residential area and the general standard of houses remains at a high level. There are no unfit houses requiring Housing Act Procedure. Private housing development continued in several areas during the year under review, and 225 houses were completed by the developers. Housing of the Aged Both the Council owned estates of old peoples bungalows were fully occupied during the year, and have proved themselves to be of great benefit to the occupants. Even though there is a total of 96 of these units of accommodation it is still not sufficient to meet the demand, as there is a considerable waiting list of applicants for any bungalows that become vacant. The Fulwood Abbeyfield Housing Society also helps to provide suitable facilities for elderly persons. Six of these, together with resident warden, are accommodated in the house provided. Improvement Grants Grants may be made by a local authority towards the cost of improving the older type of house which lack certain essential amenities such as water closet, bath, hot water system, food store, etc. Action taken during the year under the House Purchase and Housing Act 1959, and Housing Acts, 1961, 1964, and 1969 — Standard Grants. No. of Dwellings 1. Applications submitted to Local Authority for improvement to full stan- dard 3 2. Applications approved by Local Authority for improvement to reduced standard — 3. Total applications approved by Local Authority 3 4. Work completed 3 Inspections of Dwelling Houses 381 visits were made to 225 houses to inspect for any defects during the year under review. The majority of these visits were made in connection with drainage, being either to advise owners on drainage problems, to clear blockages, or to inspect and test repair work being carried out by con- tractors. 181 new defects were found of an easily remedied character, and all had been abated by the year end, together with 2 others outstanding from the previous year. Two statutory notices and 12 informal notices were served on owners during the year in order to get works of repair carried out. Overcrowding No cases of overcrowding were found to exist during the year. Housing Applicants Unfortunately new applications for houses and old peoples accommodation continue to far exceed the number of applicants rehoused. 4 council houses, and 8 bungalows became vacant and were relet during 1969. The present demand in Fulwood is for smaller accommodation, such as one and two bed- roomed flats for single persons and middle aged couples. SCHOOLS There are twelve schools in the district. These are:— Fulwood and Cadley County Primary School, Cadley Causeway. Fulwood and Cadley County Secondary Modern School, Black Bull Lane. Fulwood and Cadley County Primary (Harris Department) School, Garstang Road. St. Anthony’s R.C. Primary School, Cadley Causeway. St. Pius 10th Boys’ Preparatory School, Garstang Road. Kennington Road Junior School. Blessed Cuthbert Mayne R.C. Secondary Modern School, Cadley Causeway. Thomas More R.C. Secondary Modern School, St. Vincent’s Road. William Temple Church of England Secondary School, St. Vincent’s Road. Our Lady and St. Edward’s R.C. Primary School, Lightfoot Lane. Queens Drive County Primary School, Black Bull Lane. The Derby School for Partially Sighted, Lytham Road. CLEAN AIR No action was taken by the Council in 1969 to make further Smoke Control Orders in the district. This is most unfortunate considering the manner in which the existing two orders were carried out by the staff and received by the residents. The benefits of smoke control can so easily be seen in the areas covered by the orders at pre- sent in force. By the end of 1969 only about 13% of properties were under smoke control, and this surely is not a record to be proud of. SHOPS ACT, 1950 The County Council being the Shops Act Authority for this area, have delegated certain functions to this Council. These functions are mainly concerned with heating, lighting, ventilation, temperature, washing facilities and hours of employment for young persons. Reports on such inspec- tions are made direct to the County Council, and during 1969 38 inspections were made. Shops where persons are employed also come under the provisions of the Offices, Shops and Railway Premises Act, 1963. 32 visits were made to shops for the purpose of this Act. THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE MEDICAL OFFICER OF HEALTH IN RESPECT OF THE YEAR 1969 FOR THE URBAN DISTRICT OF FULWOOD IN THE COUNTY OF LANCASHIRE Prescribed Particulars on the Administration of the Factories Act 1961 PART ONE OF THE ACT 1—INSPECTIONS for purposes of provisions as to health (including inspections made by Public Health Inspectors) Number on Register i.2) Number of Premises C1) Inspections (3) Written Notices i.4) Occupier Prosecuted (3) (1) Factories in which Sections 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 are to be enforced by Local Authorities (2) Factories not included in (1) in which Section 7 is enforced by the Local Authority 18 17 _ (3) Other premises in which Section 7 is enforced by the Local Authority (excluding out-workers’ premises) 5 6 — — TOTAL 23 23 — — 2—Cases in which DEFECTS were found (If defects are discovered at the premises on two, three or more separate occasions they should be reckoned as two, three or more “cases"). Particulars V) Number oj f cases in which defects were found Number of cases in which prosecutions were instituted (6) Found (2) Remedied (i) Referred to H.M. Inspector (.4) Referred by H.M. Inspector (5) Want of cleanliness (S.l) — — Overcrowding (S.2) — — — — Unreasonable temperature (S.3) — — — — — Inadequate ventilation (S.4) — — — — — Ineffective drainage of floors (S.6) — — — — — Sanitary Conveniences (S.7) (a) Insufficient — — — — — (b) Unsuitable or defective — — — — — (c) Not separate for sexes — — — — — Other offences against the Act (not including offences relating to Out-work) — — — — — TOTAL — — — — - Outwork (Section 133 and 134) Section 133 Section 134 Nature of work (1) No. of outworkers in August list required by Section 133 (1) (c) (2) No. of cases of default in sending lists to the Council (3) No. of prosecutions for failure to supply lists (4) No. of instances of work in unwholesome premises (5) Notices served (6) Prosecutions (7) nil nil nil nil nil nil NEW LEGISLATION Housing Act, 1969 Public Health (Recurring Nuisances) Act, 1969 The Meat (Sterilisation) Regulations, 1969 The Food (Control of Irradiation) (Amendment) Regulations, 1969 The Clean Air (Height of Chimneys) (Prescribed Form) Regulations, 1969 The Clean Air Act (Commencement No. 2) Order, 1969 The Clean Air Act (Arrestment Plant) (Exemption) Regulations, 1969 The Clean Air (Emission of Dark Smoke) (Exemption) Regulations, 1969 The Slaughter of Poultry Act, 1967 (Commencement) Order, 1969. APPENDED REPORTS 1. The Report of Mr. McFarlane, Public Health Inspector. 2. The Report of Mr. Dickinson, Engineer and Surveyor. REPORT OF THE PUBLIC HEALTH INSPECTOR for the year ending 31st December, 1969 Mr. Chairman and Members of the Council, I have much pleasure in presenting my Annual Report to the Council on the work of the department for the year 1969. This current year has seen changes in the staff of the Health Department. In March, Mr. F. Swinson who was Assistant Public Health Inspector for three years left on obtaining a better position with another Authority. Due to this I was without an assistant for several weeks until Mr. I R. Foster commenced his duties in May. Mrs. J. Davis who had served the department most efficiently for twelve years resigned in May and was replaced by Mrs. S. Hargreaves. At the time of writing this report the Central Lancashire New City, in which all of Fulwood is included, has been designated by the Minister of Housing and Local Government. At this stage it is too early to envisage just what effects this will have on the Authority, staff and people of Fulwood. For the first time since the present occupier took over in 1957, the number of animals killed at the private slaughterhouse showed a decrease in 1969. A total of 10,515 animals compared with 13,166 in 1968. Considering that bovine tuberculosis has been virtually eradicated, it was unusual to find two cases cropping up during the year. Two cows from a batch of 21 bought from the Plymouth area showed evidence of tuberculosis on post mortem inspection. In one, T.B. lesions were found in the glands and substance of the offal and also in the glands of the carcase, this was totally condemned as being generalised. The other case was only found to have lesions in some of the offal, therefore, the carcase was passed fit for consumption but the offal was destroyed. Veterinary officers of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food were informed of this for their investigations to be carried out at the source. Various specimens from both animals were submitted to the Public Health Laboratory for examination. These examinations proved the presence of bacillus tuberculosis and confirmed our original diagnosis. An outbreak of sonnei dysentery, affecting mainly school children, in the early part of the year entailed a considerable amount of work. Although only 73 cases were officially notified many other suspect cases were investigated, and faecal specimens obtained for laboratory examination. Fortunately the outbreak of Food Posioning at the Civic Hostel in August did not put any undue strain on our resources as all the investigations were carried out by the staff of the Preston Health Department (by arrangement with our respective Medical Officers of Health). Routine sampling of milk, both raw and heat treated, was continued throughout the year. Tubercle bacillus or antibiotics were not found in any of the samples submitted to the Public Health Laboratory for examination. However, three samples were found to contain the Brucellosis organ- ism, these were all from producers outside this area and the respective local authorities were notified for the necessary action to be taken. As with other years, all the normal routine work continued as usual, Inspections of premises under the Factories, Shops, and Housing Acts, Offices Shops & Railway Premises Act, and Food Hygiene Regulations all received a comprehensive coverage. I would like to thank Dr. Walker for his help and guidance throughout the year, also Mrs. S. Hargreaves for the efficient way she has dealt with the clerical and routine work of the department. To Mr. Foster and Mr. Singleton, I am indebted for their help and co-operation at all times. In conclusion, I wish to thank the Chairman and Members of the Council for their support and confidence during the year. Yours faithfully, K. W. McFARLANE, Public Health Inspector. PUBLIC HEALTH INSPECTIONS The table below shows the visits made to various types of premises during the year, and the number of premises where certain works were carried out. The number of visits made shows a slight decrease over the previous year, mainly due to staff shortage for a period of six weeks early in the year. No. of visits No. of premises With new defects Where defects have been abated Agricultural Premises 42 37 — Aged Persons Dwellings Site 102 75 — — Clean Air Act 61 52 — — Dairies and Milk Shops 23 20 — — Disinfestation of Premises (insects) .. 59 44 43 43 Food Premises 114 95 10 10 Food Inspection 37 24 — — Food Poisoning and Dysentery 111 119 — — Factory Act 23 21 — — Housing Applicants 75 54 — — Housing Acts 2 2 1 — Housing: Advisory 88 73 3 3 Drainage 327 204 173 173 General Defects 54 21 8 10 Infectious Diseases 9 9 — — Ice Cream Shops 23 23 — — Miscellaneous Visits 252 196 3 3 Offices, Shops and Railway Premises Act .. 42 35 6 6 Rodent Control 693 456 72 72 Slaughterhouse 323 1 — — Shops Act 38 38 — — Waste Foods Order 2 1 — — Noise Abatement Act .. 32 27 4 “ 2,638 1,627 323 324 Details of Improvements Details of repairs and improvements carried out during the year under review are listed below. Only a small percentage of complaints are for general house defects and most of these are found to be of a minor nature. Most of the owners were found to be co-operative and usually all the work was completed within a reasonable time. During 1969 however it was necessary to serve two statutory notices in order to get the required work done. Improvements Chimney Stacks repointed Dampness remedied .... Disinfestations Drains repaired or cleansed Floor boards renewed General nuisances abated Gutters renewed Plasterwork renewed .... Roofs Repaired Sinks Repaired Sink wastepipes repaired Walls repointed Waterpipes repaired .... Windows repaired W.C. Cisterns repaired Number of Premises 2 2 43 .... 173 1 6 2 3 2 1 2 2 2 5 2 RENT ACTS Apart from minor queries, no action was necessary under the above acts. FOOD SUPERVISION Details of milk sampling carried out during the year are given below. All milk tested for Tubercle Bacillus, and the presence of antibiotics gave negative results, but three samples were found positive for Brucellosis. These were from producers outside the district, and all subsequent action was taken by the Local Authority concerned. Total No. of samples No. of satisfactory samples No. of Tests void No. of unsatisfactory samples Percentage of satisfactory samples Raw Milk (Tuberculin Tested) (1) Tuberculosis 8 8 100 (2) Methylene Blue 41 24 1 16 60 (3) Presence of Antibiotics 41 41 — — 100 Total no. of samples Positive Negative Equivocal No result Brucellosis .. 41 (1) Ring Test 2 38 1 — (2) Culture Test .. 3 — — — (3) Biological Test 1 7 — — Total no. of samples No. of satisfactory samples No. of unsatisfactory samples 13 13 13 13 — 1 1 1 1 — 9 9 — Percentage of satisfactory samples Heat Treated Milk: Pasteurised (1) Phosphatase Test .. (2) Methylene Blue Test Homogenised (1) Phosphatase Test .. (2) Methylene Blue Test Sterilised (1) Turbidity Test 100 100 100 100 100 ICE CREAM In this area the pre-wrapped ice cream sold from a total of 35 diffeient shops is obtained from two well known national manufacturing concerns, and the commodity they produce maintains a satisfactory high bacteriological grade. During the year under review 11 samples were submitted to the Public Health Laboratory for examination. 10 of these were reported as Grade 1 and 1 as Grade 2. MEAT AND OTHER FOODS During 1969 a full meat inspection service was maintained, with 323 visits being made to the private slaughterhouse For the first time since the present operator took over in 1957 the number of animals killed shows a decrease over the previous year. 10,515 animals compared with 13,166 in 1968. This was not common to this area alone, but seemed to reflect the national average due to a slackening off of the demand for meat. Carcases and Offal inspected and condemned in whole or in part Cattle excluding cows Cows Calves Sheep and Lambs Pigs Number killed .. 1,375 422 5 8,275 438 Number inspected All diseases except T.B. and Cysticerci 1,375 422 5 8,275 438 Whole carcases condemned 1 2 — 7 4 Carcases of which some part or organ was condemned .. Percentage of the number inspected affected with diseases 360 250 — 1,327 40 other than T.B. and Cysticerci Tuberculosis only 26-2 59-7 — 161 100 Whole carcases condemned .. — 1 — — — Carcases of which some part or organ was condemned .. — 1 — — — Percentage of the number inspected affected with T.B. Cysticercosis — 0-47 — — — Carcases of which some part or organ was condemned .. 4 6 — — — Carcases submitted to treatment by refrigeration .. 4 2 — — — Generalised and totally condemned Examination of Other Foods During the year the following food was inspected and totally condemned:— 69 lbs Assorted Canned Foods Condemnation certificates were issued for this food as being unfit for human consumption, and it was subsequently destroyed. Food Premises in the District A complete survey of all food premises was carried out during the year, when it was found that various changes in types of premises had taken place. At the year end therefore, the district had the following numbers:— Type of Business Number General grocers and provision dealers 25 Greengrocers and fruiterers (including those selling wet fish, game, etc.) .... 8 Meat shops (butchers, purveyors of cooked and preserved meats, tripe, etc.) .... 13 Bakers and/or confectioners 4 Fried fish shops 2 Shops selling mainly sugar confectionery, minerals, ice-cream, etc. 16 Licensed premises, clubs, canteens, restaurants, cafes, snack bars and similar catering establishments 25 Others 2 No. of food premises registered under section 16 of the Food & Drugs Act, 1955 or the Lancashire County Council Acts Type of business Legislation under which registration effected No. registered at end of year No. of inspections of registered premises during year Preserved Foods .. Food & Drugs Act, 1955 6 15 Ice Cream Food & Drugs Act, 1955 35 23 Hawkers Lancs. C.C. (General Powers) Act, 1951 2 2 Number of Hawkers registered by Local Authority 4 Food Hygiene (General) Regulations, 1960 The number of premises in the district subject to the Food Hygiene Regulations is 95. These generally maintain a fairly high standard with owners being co-operative. The following table gives details as required by the Department of Health and Social Security:— (1) Number of Food Premises 95 (2) Number of premises fitted to comply with Regulation 16 (provision of wash hand basin) 95 (3) Number of premises to which Regulation 19 (provision of sink) applies 77 (4) Number of premises fitted to comply with Regulation 19 .... 77 Poultry Iuspection (1) Number of poultry processing premises within the district (2) Number of visits made to these premises (3) Total number of birds processed during the year (4) Types of birds processed:— mainly hens and broilers, seasonal trade for turkeys and ducks. (5) Percentage of birds rejected as unfit for human consumption (6) Weight of poultry condemned as unfit for human con- sumption 2 15 500,000 (approx.) 1.5% (est.) 15,000 lbs. (approx.) One of the processing plants is housed in a large and modern building, and maintains a very good standard throughout. The other being small and in an older type of premises, tends to give rise to some problems from time to time, although the end product is very satisfactory. Liquid Egg (Pasteurisation) Regulations, 1963 (1) No. of egg pasteurisation plants in district at end of year .... Nil (2) No. of samples of liquid egg submitted to Alpha-Amylase test and their results Nil Disease of Animals (Waste Foods) Order, 1957 This deals with the licensing of waste food boiling plants. Only one plant was in operation during the year. The following are details of the administration of the Order as supplied to the County Council. (1) Number of plants licensed at 1st January, 1969 1 (2) Number of plants licensed during the year — (3) Number of licences cancelled during the year — (4) Number of plants licensed at 31st December, 1969 .... 1 (5) Number of inspections 2 (6) Number of prosecutions — Offices, Shops and Rai'way Premises Act, 1963 One new registration for shop premises was received during the year, and three existing regis- trations were cancelled as staff were no longer employed. This meant a decrease in the total number of registered premises affected by the Act — 64 against 66. It is pleasing to report that, with the exception of a very few minor contraventions, all the premises maintain a high standard of environmental health and safety. During 1969 only one accident was reported under the act. This was investigated and recommendations as necessary were made to the owners of the premises. REGISTRATIONS AND GENERAL INSPECTIONS Period covered — 1st January to 31st December, 1969 Class of premises cl) Number of premises newly registered during the year (2) Total number of registered premises at end of year (3) Number of registered premises receiving one or more general inspections during the year (4) Offices — 14 5 Retail shops 1 41 27 Wholesale shops, warehouses — 2 — Catering establishments open to the public, canteens — 7 3 Fuel storage depots — — — TOTALS 1 64 35 Number of visits of all kinds (including General Inspections) to registered premises 42 NUMBER OF PERSONS EMPLOYED IN REGISTERED PREMISES BY WORKPLACE Number of persons Class of workplace employed Offices .. 67 Retail shops 124 Wholesale departments, warehouses 7 Catering establishments open to the public 71 Canteens 1 Fuel storage depots .. — TOTAL 270 Total males 102 Total females 168 RODENT CONTROL As in previous years, inspections, surveys and treatments were carried out for rat and mouse infestations. The number of properties requiring an eradication treatment was similar to 1968. The four brooks in the district, which can be a source of trouble, were regularly inspected and treated when necessary. The table opposite gives details of rodent work carried out in 1969:— Type of property Non-agricultural Agricultural Dwelling houses All other (a) No. of properties in district .. 6,668 161 43 (b) No. of properties inspected 391 65 10 (c) Total inspections carried out (including re-inspections) .. 486 111 20 (d) No. of properties which were found to be infested by:— Rats—major — — — minor .... 51 5 1 Mice—major — — — minor .... 12 3 1 (c) No. of infested properties treated .. 62 7 1 (f) Total treatments carried out (inch re-treatments) 70 8 — (g) No. of “block” control schemes carried out 1 — REPORT OF THE ENGINEER AND SURVEYOR, 1969 Mr. Chairman and Members of the Council, The following is a report on the work of my Department in 1969. Private Street Works The length of Mill Lane between Cadley Causeway and Savick Brook was made up during the year. The remaining length between Savick Brook and Lytham Road and also Lytham Close will be made up during 1970. Highways The usual maintenance programme was carried out on both Classified and District Roads, and some surface dressing of carriageways and footways on both rural roads and urban streets. On Classified roads, the carriageway of Watling Street Road was re-surfaced with hot rolled asphalt between Sharoe Green Lane South and Fulwood Hall Lane. Also lengths of footways in Watling Street Road were re-surfaced with hot rolled asphalt sand carpet. On District Roads the reconstruction and widening of Tower Lane was completed during the year, a re-aligned carriageway and two footways being provided. Work commenced in August on the reconstruction of Lower Bank Road and the part of Victoria Road between Garstang Road and West Road. This scheme will be completed during 1970. Sewerage No new work of sewage disposal was carried out during the year. Repair and maintenance of the sewerage system was carried out from time to time as required. Refuse Collection and Disposal The weekly collection of household refuse was maintained during the year. Refuse disposal was by controlled tipping at Longridge. Street Lighting The district is lit entirely by electricity. By arrangement with developers street lighting was installed in part of the Ingle Head Estate and part of the Broadwood Drive Estate. New street light- ing systems were installed in Tower Lane and Mill Lane in conjunction with roadworks. Private Enterprise Housing. At the beginning of the year 102 houses were under construction, 225 houses were completed during the year, making a total of 3072 houses since the war, 304 houses were under construction at the end of the year. Yours faithfully, A. C. DICKINSON, Engineer and Surveyor Printed by Frank Coupe & Co., Lid,, Walton-la-Dale. Preston.