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Hokitika Guardian, 17 January 1921, Page 2

An impressive tribute to the memory of New Zealand', Australian and British soldiers buried in the cemetery at Torquay, England is described in the Torquay “Times” newspaper. The occasion was Armistice Day. Ever since the New Zealand troops left Torquay the ladies connected with the St. Marychurch canteen have looked after the enclosure where the six men lie, the grass being cut and fresh flowers being placed on the graves every week. Hitherto there lias been no concerted attempt to pay similar honour to the British soldiers lying in the cemetery, and who number about fifty, the simple white wooden crosses forming a pathetic forest, dignified and arresting The V.A.D.’s (Devon 22, and Devon 26) joined with the ladies of the New Zealand canteen. They fell in at the residence of Mrs Acton, the commandant the V.A.D.’s wearing their uniforms and decorations and carrying Uniion Jacks. Miss Morrison headed the New Zealand ladies, bearing the flag presented to Torquay by the New Zealand Government, which was lent for the occasion through the courtesy of the Mayor. TBev marched through the streets of St Marychureh to the the cemetery, where every grave was decorated, chrysanthemums being largely used. There were nearly thirty floral tributs on the New Zealand enclosure, rosemary, white roses, and Ivy being draped around the memorial oroto, which bears the touching inscription: “And they Rise to Their Feet as He passes by, Gentemen Unafraid.” At eleven o’clock the ladies formed in double line facing the graves, and the flags were sloped as the maroons gave the signal for the silence which was impressively observed. At the close a short prayer was recited. It is intended that this little cd’emom il shall become an annual event. AVe hope it will, for these kindly courtesies help to cement those intangible lKinds which unite us with the land that we call Mother.