VISITORS’ IMPRESSIONS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXIV, 3 January 1931, Page 5

VISITORS’ IMPRESSIONS

{To the Editor) Sir, —Permit us as visitors to say a few words about your town. As travellers fairly well acquainted with most of the South Island we would like to commend the foresight ot the founders of the town on the excellent layout of the business centre and also the business people for the up-to-date shop fronts and buildings. The baths are a credit to the city, and many larger places might well be proud to possess any so fine. As keen swimmers, we are, however, at loss to understand why more attention is not given to this sport in Nelson. Me aro told that carnivals are held periodically, but- the standard of swimming which we have seen has not been very high. Surely with such a climate and bathing facilities as the Nelsonian is blessed with, belter things can he done. Some of the finest scenery we have seen has been in the upper reaches ot the Mailai but the effect of the filthy state of the bed and banks of the river where it (lows through the town is to produce a nausea even on the most un•ii | is'Jc mind. A dozen men could easily be engaged for a week when, the river diminishes to its summer trickle, and if it has not already been done, a by-law might be passed to forbid the depositing of rubbish in the river. If seme drastic steps are not taken, this river will become a place so disgusting as to disgrace even Cairo. Last but not least we would like to thank the Nelson people lor the hospitality extended to three perfect strangers. Best of luck Nelson ! IT. lIOCWOOD. E. T. TOPP. G. M. LATHAM. Nelson, 31st December.