SANTA CLAUS’ VISIT

Hokitika Guardian, 24 December 1931, Page 4

SANTA CLAUS’ VISIT

WITH TIIE ■SOLDIERS’ KIDDIES. It was a happy thought from which the childrens party at the Soldiers’ Hall emanated. Yesterday the children of exsoldiers in the distr.ct to the number of over 300 assembled at the Soldiers’ Hall. They were of all ages, from children Vu arms to 11 years, and a happy throng they were. They were welcomed by Mr D. J. Evans (President) who extended good wishes, and while awaiting the arrival of Santa Claus, the children sang the National Anthem, and Rev. Knowles Smith, Vice-President, told a Christmas anecdote, the moral of which was to avoid selfishness.. After some community-singing, with Mi.ss Lynn and Airs Nancekiveil presiding at the piano, Santa Chius arrived in an atmosphere of shining expectancy. His Highness soon made friends with all and sundry and he scattered largesse in the shape of lollies, and a whole hearted scramble ensued. When the supply was temporarily exhausted, Santa Claus presided at a well laden Christmas Tree set in the centre of the large hall, and at which the children had been casting longing ey.qs for some time. A list of names had been prepared with the children’s ages, and starting from the little tots, called up by Mr Knowles 'Smith, Father Christmas presented each with a Xmas present and a few happy words of good wishes, It was a very animated scene for an hour or so, as the children came forward expectantly, and none departed disappointed, Father, Christmas was assisted by several memhers of the R,S.A,, and the distribution went forward rapidly.

Ait the close, the children and . the parents present were regaled with refreshments and soft drinks, not omitting ice-creams. The ladies who were, assisting in this. d sti'ibution had a busy three quarters of an hour, but there was plenty for all, and , a very pleasing event in the holiday, period for the young .people present, passed off most successfui'ly. Mr Evans said when the idea was promoted it was not expected there would be so large attendance. But they wore quite pleased to see so many children present, anu were glad of the opportunity entertaining them in such an appropriate manner. Parents who were present expressed thanks for the hospitality extended, and no doubt, the children had a very jolly afternoon - On Sunday, January 2, the local R. iS.A. will pay a visit to the hospitals to present Mew Year gifts to soldier inmates at the institutions