CROQUET AT KELBURN

Evening Post, Volume CXIV, Issue 89, 12 October 1932, Page 11

CROQUET AT KELBURN

PROMISING BEGINNING

Although the weather was distinctly unfavourable there was a very large gathering of members of the Kelburn Municipal Croquet Club and representatives from other clubs, at the opening ceremony which took place yesterday afternoon. The greens looked in fine condition, and in the pretty pavilion afternoon tea was invitingly set out, the decoration being of Iceland poppies, blue hayaehiths, and small vases of blue and yellow violas—a charming colour scheme. • ■.: The Mayoress (Mrs. T. C. A. Hislop) drove the first ball through the hoop, and made a charming little speech for the opening ceremony. She.spoke of the increasing popularity of the game, and of the high standard of■ skill which was necessary for players who wished to excel. Good wishes for few "north-erlics"-and a good season concluded her cordial remarks. A bouquet of beautiful tulips was handed to Mrs. Hislop, Mrs. Wallis (president) being given some fine pink tulips. Mrs. Wallis, after thanking the Mayoress for her presence, welcomed the visitors and members, and read messages from Mr. Ross, of the New Zealand Croquet. Council, and from others who remembered the opening, who sent good wishes, and regretted being unable to be present. Other speakers included Mrs. Austin (president of the Croquet Association), Mr. E. A. Wright, M.P., and Mr. W. H. Bennett (Deputy Mayor). Among those present were Mrs. McKenzie (secretary of the Croquet Association), Lady Luke, Mrs.' McVilly (patroness of the Kelburn Club), Mrs. Brice • Christie (vice-patroness), Mrs. W. H. Bennett, and a number of other noh-players. Several competitions were enjoyed, although the wind was so "unfriendly," the winners, being Mrs. Mouat (Waimarie), ladder; Mrs. Sedgwick (Eangamaric), tunnel; Mrs. Billing (Wellington), angles.