CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLVI, Issue 2828, 30 December 1924, Page 2

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

THE WEATHER, The weather for the Christmas holidays was variable enough to please or displease, everyone. All the seasons were represented with an earthquake thrown-in. KIDDIES ENTERTAINED. On Christmas Eve the kiddies of the town and country were entertained on Easton Park by Father Christmas, who was specially engaged by the local Retailers’ Association to distribute toys purchased from funds contributed by local business people and friends of the children. Mr Perreau officiated as Father Christmas and the youngsters had a real good time. A BUSY THOROUGHFARE. On Christmas Eve the town was thronged with people among whom were a large number of visitors. All the business houses were kept particularly busy—in fact the~Christmas turnover this year constituted a record. COMBINED RELIGIOUS SERVICE On Christmas evening a combined religious service was held in All Saints’ Church, the attendance taxing the seating accommodation to its utmost limit. The vicar. Rev. W. 11. Walton, in a welcome address, referred to the unity of the churches as appropriate on such an occasion. The Rev. Frank McDonald (Presbyterian) delivered an eloquent sermon from the text: “What Think Ye of. Christ?” and the Rev. Peryinan (Methodist) also delivered an appropriate address. The choir under the eonductorship of Mr R.T. Betty, rendered the anthem: “Seek Ye the Lord,” Mr J. M. Ban' taking the solo. Mrs Carmont sang “O for the Wings of a Dove.” Mr D. R. Barron “Nazareth,” Miss Chalk “It. came upon the Midnight Clear,” Mr Witton, “Not even a Span'ow Falleth.” The service was most impressive throughout and will be long remembered by those who were privileged to attend. A collection was taken up in aid of the choir funds. Mr Thomber presided at the organ. NO CAROLLING. Neither the Band nor Church choirs indulged in Christmas carols on Christmas Eve. AN ORDERLY CROWD. The police report that the conduct of the joy makers was exemplary, only one arrest was made of an individual who had over-indulged in the amber liquor. RECORD POST AND TELEGRAPH BUSINESS. The local postmaster (Mr Dela ny), informed us that; the volume of postal and telegraph business* just, about doubled that of last year. The staff rose to the occasion and had a clear office on Christmas Eve. INCREASED RAILWAY TRABFIC The local stationmaster (Mr H. Hornblow) informs us that despite the increased motor traffic, the railway business shows a marked increase over last year. PALMERS TON RACES. The races at Palmerston N. attracted a large number of Foxton and district people. ROAD TRAFFIC. The main road leading through the district has carried a tremendous amount of motor traffic this year. Hundreds of motor ears have passed through daily loaded with passengers and luggage. The state of the roads are not good owing to the heavy rains causing innumerable pot holes. AT THE SEASIDE. Hundreds of, motor ears have conveyed people to the seaside from all parts of the district and this favoured locality has presented a very animated appearance although the changeable weather and flooded state of the river lessened the enjoyment of visitors. All the houses ere occupied and tents have been erected in sheltered spots to accommodate the overflow.