Within days of war being declared the women of Southampton rallied round to help the armed forces.

“The Red Cross work party which has been organised amongst Southampton ladies, and is doing really excellent work in making garments of all descriptions for hospital use, is in danger of being summarily closed through lack of funds,” said a newspaper report of the time.

“Already the busy band of ladies have arrived at that point when a temporary halt has to be called. It is earnestly hoped that when this is realised funds will flow in at a pace sufficient to keep the party at top pressure at their useful work.

“The Victoria Rooms was on Monday in the hands of an army of ladies, who are making a variety of garments for wounded soldiers and sailors.

“They were doing everything in their power to bring comfort to the men who fall. There is no lack of workers. Over 200 ladies, with needles and sewing machines, are to be seen throughout the day busy at their work.

“It would be a reproach to Southampton if through lack of funds all this should have to be set aside and the work party broken up.

“It is felt that the true state of affairs has only to be placed before the public in order to secure all the funds required.

“The need is great, for in such a war in which the great nations of Europe are at grips, the number of wounded can hardly fail to be heavy.”

In Woolston a well-attended meeting of women, held at the Masonic Hall, organised a committee to raise funds and organise workers to help with the wounded.

“A committee was formed, not necessarily numerous, but of ladies who would undertake the various duties required,” continued the newspaper report.

“About 12 names were submitted to the meeting and adopted, and a treasurer and secretary were appointed. Those present most generously and promptly responded to the appeal for funds.

“It was announced that the Pear Tree Church choir decided to forgo their annual excursion, the money (£5) to be given to the cause.”