GENERAL BIRDWOOD

Hokitika Guardian, 23 June 1920, Page 3

GENERAL BIRDWOOD

I VISIT TO WEST COAST. • (Per Press Association.) GREY MOUTH, Juno 23. f General Sir Win Birdwood arrived at Greymouth last evening by the express and was welcomed by x tho Mayor and Councillors and a large number of reI turned soldiers and the public. Headj ed by the Battalion Band the party then proceeded to the Post Office Hotel, where a double lino of soldiers had formed up as a guard of honour. Waikin.» to the entrance, the General shook hands with and renewed old acquaintances among the returned soldjers. ' Subsequently there was a public reception at the Opera House," when the presentation of an address was followed by a speech by the General, his reception being a very hearty one. Alterwards General Birdwood was entertined at a gathering in the Town all where the)Returned Soldiers’ Ball proved a great success.

Yesterday Mr T. W. Bruce, County Chairman, telegraphed to General'Birdwood at Otira, a hearty welcome to Westland on the occasion of his arrival in Westland County. General Birdwood replied: “Much appreciate your kind welcome and only regret my tour does not include Hokitika which I should much like to have seen, and where I know such a hearty welcome would have been given me by old comrade,. and all who love them, and are grateful for all they have done for their country. I am, at nil events, delighted to be in Westland.”