THE NIGHTWATCHMAN

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 9, Issue 39, 30 January 1946, Page 5

THE NIGHTWATCHMAN

APATHY OF BUSINESSMEN

WIDER SUPPORT NEEDED

At the special meeting of the Whakatane Retailers last Wednesday it was reported that several 'firms which in the past had undertaken to support the nightwatebman by regular contributions had ceased, to carry out their obligations and it was decided to instruct the secretary, Mr G. W. Good, to contact all such businessmen and set out the full case.

The meeting was unanimously in favour of assisting the officer to the utmost. Mr C. F. Thomas recalled the fact that at one time it was discovered he was only receiving £3 8s weekly and t lie Assoeiaiton had actively interested itself so much it was eventually built up to £7 ss. Since then however it had gradually declined again. This was to be regretted as the man they now had was conscientious to a degree.

The secretary reported that regular reports had been submitted to him and it would amaze businessmen to learn of the carelessness which oc\cvjrred even in a town of Whakatane’s size. Doors, cupboards and windows were constantly left open and were discovered by the nightwatchman.

Mr Warren said that it was up to the whole town to support the position of night watchman. The position was held by a good trustworthy man with a good war record, and also one who hacl been injured. The chairman (Mr G. S. Armstrong) observed that Mr Kinnaird had saved big fires from occurring in the town and he appealed to businessmen, as a whole to support him in his work.