Mexborough and Swinton Times March 8, 1895
Resignation of the Conisborough Weslayan Church Organist
At a recent meeting of the trustees the registration of Mr J. K. Bateson, organist and choir master, was recorded and accepted with feelings of the greatest regret.
After 23 years of devoted attention and service to the work, of conductor and organist Mr Bateson thinks that it is time he made way for a younger man, although it should be stated that he is not yet to be termed as an old man by any means.
After such yeoman service there is no wonder that the resignation should be reluctantly accepted and that feelings of regret should also pervade among the church members, by whom and in fact all he came into contact, he is much respected.
Too much cannot be said of the energy he displayed in promoting the anniversaries year by year, and also on the taste he displayed in his selections, which were always tuneful, bright and inspiring. He has always been at his best, and during the whole of the period in question has not once been late for service.
A friend and counsellor will also be much missed by the Sunday School scholars, who have always had Mr Bateson’s sympathy and watchful consideration through cloud and sunshine prior to their Whitsuntide carnival.
It should be stated that Mr H. Sharp, who had high credentials for the vacancy, has been appointed successor to Mr Bateson. In Mr Sharp the trustees may rely on reputation already attained being fully maintained, as he has full qualification for the post