THE BRITISH FLEET.

Hokitika Guardian, 12 May 1924, Page 1

THE BRITISH FLEET.

nv TF.LEGRAFII MESS ASSN., COPYRIGHT. THE lIOOD AT AUCKLAND. AUCKLAND, May 10. Escorted by a large number of ferry steamers and small craft, tho llood rounded North Head at ono o’clock. The sun was shining brightly on the animated scene. The water front and other vantage points were lined by great crowds of spectators. As the Hood approached the wharf to berth, there was an incessant hooting of sirens, ashore and afloat, the sudden advent of the sunshine after the night’s heavy rain turning dismay to general cheerfulness.

BIG SHIPS AT AUCKLAND. AUCKLAND, May 11. Nearly six thousand children from the city and country schools visited the “Hoed’’ and “Repulse” yesterday afternoon, sixteen hundred being brought by train from stations between Cambridge and NVliangamarino. The Hood and Repulse were opened to the public this afternoon, be\np; thronged throughout the period. Half an Hour after the Hood was opened she was full, and the wharf gates were closed, leaving thousand* outside. The pressure of the crowd broke the gates several women fainting and some being rather badly crushed, and having to be removed in ambulances and motors. Extra police wore brought in to regulate the traffic to the ship.

VIF.NYIXG THE SQUADRON. i GISBORNE, May 10. East C-ape reports six of the Special Service Squadron passed there at 9 last night and two at 10- The evening was all that could he desired. All along the coast from Tokomaru Bay to Hicks Bay, people took up points of vantage in order to have a wide range of view. The searchlights display was brilliant. Fires were lighted a various places and a big linn fire at East Capo lit up the sea mid .surrounding hills.