DISTRICT NEWS

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 23 September 1915, Page 2

DISTRICT NEWS

KAUKAPAKAPA

fOWN correspondent!

WELCOME HOME TO CORPORAL W. A. DRINNAN The Kaukapakapa Hall was crowded on Thursday evening last to welcome home again Corporal W. A. Drinnan. The guest of the evening only arrived by express train that morning, and short as the notice had been, the news was 'phoned and ,talked, the result being the large enthusiastic gathering at night. A large gathering assembled at the railway station at 10.30 a.m., and gave the Corporal a right-royal welcome home again. But at night there was no mistaking how much this district has ap r . predated the services rendered by Corpl. Drinnan for us far away at the - Dardanelles, yet the hearty welcoma tendered him at that gathering'v~™s|y| for his love, unselfishness, and readfl^PQ^ to sacrifice his life for us in a faraway

country

The function was opened by Mr Dye striking-up the National Anthem on the piano, followed by an outburst of song ; and, Mr Editor, that song was just a flood of patriotism that made the building ring again. Then our popular Mr F. Dye, who knows a Kaukapakapa gathering, led off with three cheers for Corpl. Drinnan, and the growd heaved-to and cheered again and again. Then back to the piano went bur musician and leader of men; this time to lead off in singing " For He's a Jolly Good Fellow." v .

Mr F. Dye's address of welcome was very good and well delivered. Heartyapplause waß the mark of punctuation throughout. The speaker, presented the guest of the evening with a safety razor. which had been offered him before he went- to the front, but which he preferred to accept on his return. He has come back—not safe and sound—and now has the razor. He has, too, the thanks of an appreciative public and all loyal British hearts. Solos were rendered by Mrs Bellinini , and others, and greatly enjoyed. A delicious supper was handed round by the ladies, and then dancing was indulged in until the daylight was at hand. SPECIAL SERVICE A special patriotic service, in honour.' of Corp, Drinnan's safe return, was 'i§~ have been held in the Methodist Phurcßs^ on Sunday evening, but the rain and % muddy roads made this impossible. It is now announced that such a service will be conducted in the Methodist Church at Kaukapakada next Sundayevening, September 26th. SPRING SEASON. Welcome rains have fallen, and warm mild weather has prevailed for some time. Grass is coming on well, and the gardens and crops are looking splendid. Every farmer must be glad, amf who of us are not truly thankful? This is more so when we remember how different it was last spring. PATRIOTIC LADIES' GUILD The Ladies' Guild still meets every Thursday afternoon, and at different houses week by week. Some £10 has been paid in and forwarded for the Soldiers' Waistcoats. Much has already been done by our women for the men at the front. Let no one break in on that afternoon here, or they will soon know that this is a very patriotic village of the British Empire.