PRESENTATION AT OTIRA

Hokitika Guardian, 24 June 1924, Page 1

PRESENTATION AT OTIRA

(From a Correspondent.)

tin Friday night at the new Otira Railway Social Hall, the residents of the district made a presentation of a handsome clock to .Alt' and Mrs Dave Jackson, on the occasion of their relinquishing control of that well known hostelry “The Bush Tnn Hotel'', on the Christchurch Road at Aickens. The function took the form of a Social and dance, and under the able secretaryship of -Miss C. Calinri, proved to he one of the most enthusiastic and enjoyable evenings ever spent in Otira. On the arrival of the guests of ilic evening, a hearty welcome was accorded them by ail present singing “For They are Jolly Good Fellows.’’ In making the presentation. Mr M. Fitzgerald .1.1’.. referred to the high esteem in which Air and Airs Jackson were held by all who knew them, and expressed the opinion that they would be sorely missed by every person who had occasion to travel the old Christchurch Road. He pointed out that Airs Jackson's aide management of the household alfait.s tit the old “Bush Inn'’ and her unfailing kindness of heart to all with whom she came in contact, had made her famous throughout New Zealand, and had brought her guests of the highest social standing from all parts of the country. Ho concluded a humorous speech by calling upon the guests to accept the gift of the people, and hv reading the inscription thereupon as '.follow'd: “Presented to Air and Airs Davy Jackson by the residents of the Otira Lino, in appreciation of glorious good times at the old Rush Inn.” Air R. AleFarlano, president of the Otira Sports Cluli. spoke in support of .Mr Fitzgerald’s remarks. Air Eggalton, inspector of permanent way, returned thanks on behalf of Air and All's Jackson. A large number of apologies were received from persons who were unable to he present. The hall was filled to overflowing, old residents having come from as far distant as Greymouth and Hokitika. The music was provided by the Otira Railway Orchestra of six performers under tiie eonduetorship of Air .1. Phihhs, and was pronounced by visitors to lie equal to anything heard in much larger town-, than Otira.

During the evening the bagpipes wore much in evidence, selections being rendered by Aliss Rona Ferguson, Air Dave Jackson and Air Ferguson.

A splendid display of hornpipes, flings, and sword dances was given by Ali.sses Alavis Robb and Rona Ferguson. A song by Airs .Morris and a screamingly funny recitation by Air Abrahams, completed a well balanced programme. Extra dance music was supplied by Messrs Jeffs, Smythe, Spencer. Alordaiiul and Amalric. All those who had helped to make the function a success were thanked by Air Calwell. Dancing was indulged in till f! a.m. when the singing of Auhl bang Syne brought the festivities to a close.