• The 1916 Biscot Pierrot troupe who followed in Vic Weldon's entertaining footsteps.

Vic M. Weldon, who described himself as one of the original Biscoteers group of 'Magical Entertainers,' had been out East for over a year and had been lying wounded in the St Andrew's Hospital in Malta before he wrote a letter to The Luton News that was published on December 27th, 1917. He says:

"Unfortunately, I got wounded some time ago whilst serving with my battery in the Balkans, hence the reason for being in hospital at Malta, but I am glad to say I am progressing favourably and hope soon to return to my battery, which has now gone to the Holy Land.

"Since I have been out here I have come in contact with several Lutonians, and what boys they are! Just like fellow townspeople at home, always merry and bright, jolly good sports, and ever ready and willing to lend a hand to anything for a good cause.

"Since I have been in Malta, able to get about after recovering from my wounds, I have been busy entertaining the boys in the various hospitals here, and have given an entertainment in nearly every hospital on the island, with the Hon Seymour Methuen's concert party. I have also been running a concert party of my own in connection with and for the British Red Cross Society.

"Reading in your paper from time to time about the concerts at Luton and Biscot recalls to my memory the many merry and enjoyable concerts we used to have at the Y.M.C.A., Biscot, and other places in Luton and district, even before that generous and thoughtful gentleman, Councillor Hubbard, provided us with the much-needed place of recreation, namely the Victoria Hut, which proved a great blessing not only to us, the old Biscoteers, but also to the Biscoteers of today.

"I notice that some of the old timers are back there again, and they will remember it was the 5th London R.F.A. Territorials that ran the first concert in that beautiful hut, I myself taking part, and with the able assistance of Mr Bulford (the leader) arranged many successful programmes.

"Most of the original party are now on the various battle fronts and still carry on with the good work of entertaining the lads behind the lines when not in action.

"Gunner Billy Platten (the pianist of my party) is on the Western Front somewhere with the Anti-Aircraft Section, and is a members of the 'Archies' Concert Party who have done so much to cheer up the lads in France. Writing some time ago he says he is having a very busy time, but is pleased to say that he is keeping fit and well.

"Lieut Arthur Prince, also of the London R.F.A. (T.F.), who was recently wounded in the East, is now here in Malta recovering from his wounds. Last week he entertained something like 3,000 wounded Tommies here with his ever popular 'Jimmy,' who is exceptionally amusing, and insists it's about time he had leave for Blighty after being amidst wicked mules (who are not particular where they put their feet) and the equally wicked Balkan mountains for over a year. Needless to say, Lieut Prince met with a hearty reception from the boys, who hope to see more of him before he returns to the Front.

"I am pleased to read of the whole-hearted support the Biscoteers at home are receiving from the public at Luton, who have always been the same to us since we first arrived in the town. Indeed, every Biscoteer, not only at home, but at the front here, has a good word of praise for Lutonians. When one takes into consideration how much Lutonians have done for our comfort and pleasure one can't wonder at it.

"Personally I have much to be thankful for, and made hundreds of good friends during my stay in the town, and received a good deal of help from them when arranging the various charity concerts. Lutonians certainly put their heart and soul in any good cause, notably one instance, to my recollection, the Provincial Police Orphanage concert held at the Assembly Hall, Luton, in April 1916, when the sum of £208 8s was raised in one night. Credit was due to Mr Marks for the hard work he did in connection with the above.

"In conclusion, I wish you all healthy, happiness and strength to carry on doing your bit at home whilst we are out here doing ours."

[The Luton News: Thursday, December 27th, 1917]