MILITARY CAMP.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLVIII, Issue 3004, 27 February 1926, Page 3

MILITARY CAMP.

Yesterday afternoon the officers and men of the sth Battery, of Wellington, encamped on the local racecourse gave an “at home” to local and district residents. A large number of people availed themselves of the opportunity of visiting the camp and lovely sunshine prevailed throughout the afternoon and consequently the lawn in front of the grand-stand presented a very animated appearance. Seats were arranged on the rise for the convenience of the visitors, from where a good view of the sports could be obtained. The grandstand was also thrown open to the public. The sports programme arranged by the men in camp, was as follows: — Battery drill parade, physical drill, spar pillow Ifight (won by Gunner Srimgeour), gun drill by battery; musical chairs on horses; battery mounted drill; guns in action; tilting the bucket; subsection relay race (won by D. Section). At the conclusion of the sports the visitors wore tendered afternoon tea on the lawn after which the Mayor (M. E. Perreau, Esq.) thanked tiie officers and men of the sth Battery for the very pleasant afternoon they had given them. He also extended a welcome back to Foxton to Major Lyon, M.C., O.C. of the camp, who before the war was a resident of this town Major Lyon rose to his present rank through his distinguished ability and Foxton was proud of him and he was glad of the opportunity of welcoming back to Foxton Major Lyon and his wife. Mr. Perreau also complimented the men on their sports programme, which had been followed with interest by the visitors. He then called for three cheers for the men in camp, which was heartily given. Major Lyon briefly returned thanks and said he was glad to be back in Foxton again and hoped they would have more camps here as lie had never experienced such hospitality as was meted out to his officers and men anywhere as he had in Foxton.

A dance was then held in the canteen and continued until 6 p.m. General leave was granted last night and camp broke up at midday to-day. This is the last camp to be held on the racecourse this year.