BRITISH NAVAL VISIT

Hokitika Guardian, 27 February 1929, Page 6

BRITISH NAVAL VISIT

A meeting was held at the County Chambers last evening in respect to the suggested visit ol a British naval force on or about the Bth prox. There was a fair attendance. Alt’ D. J. Evans explained the offer lrom Air J. McLean. Chairman of the Grey mouth Harbour Board, to arrange to send the company, about 200 stro’ug—if-the local people would see to their entertainment. It was thought this would be done. The idea was to receive the men at the station and accord them a welcome. The Naval force headed by their hand to march through the town to Cass Square, where a-picnic lunch would lie provided. ’1 he ladies neie willing to assist also in providing afternoon tea for the men prior to their departure in the evening. A sports programme could be held during the afternoon, and Air Furness was asked to draw up a skeleton programme for juvenile boxing, and Air G. Adamson to prepare a sports and .cycling programme. It was stated the tennis courts and bowling green would be at tbe disposal of the visitors. It was hoped the visitors would give a display of physical exercises and of any special drill as well as (lag signalling. In connection with the latter it was hoped to secure a parade ot Girl Guides and Boy Scouts. A tug of war was mooted, and an endeavour will, be made to form a local team. r l lie cooperation of the Returned Soldiers will l>e looked for wherever jiossible. ’fbe proposal was; generally approved, and further consideration was deferred pending cTefinite intimation as to the. date of the visit. The visit- of a naval band would be bailed with great delight. If the function on Cass Square is arranged for. a charge will be made for the admission of adults to assist in defraying expenses. ,