CROQUET.

Otaki Mail, 13 April 1923, Page 2

CROQUET.

MUNICIPAL GREENS FOR OTAKI. Mcsdanies Evans, Percivnl, Atkinson, and Nash, representatives of the proposed Municipal Croquet Club, waited on the Otaki Borough Council lasc night, with a request that they be allowed half-an-acre of ground on tindomain for croquet courts. Mrs klvans pointed out that u municipal green would be a big asset to the town and would be the means of beautifying the domain, and helping sporl in general. The Mayor said he was certain all Councillors were in sympathy with the movement, but added that the Council was in its dying hours —an election having been fixed for the 26th. The present Council, he said, may be re-elected, but at present if could not commit itself to any definite statement. Mrs Evans said it was desirable that two lawns be ready for next season. Cr. Kilsl.y saw no reason why the half a.-re should not be granted; il would noi interfere with oilier sports. The Council may not be able to finance the proposal but still the area could be given. The Mayor said the ladies were welcome to the ground, but the question was one of finance for the green. He felt sure the new Council would help. Cr. Taylor said the election was only a couple of weeks off and the delay would cause no inconvenience.' to the ladies. He favoured having the greens. -Mrs I'ercival regretted that there would b L . ;, delay, but a- long as they had the assurance that the necessary area would be available it would be something. Mrs Atkinson asked if the Council would give permission to lay down the greens; ij' allowed to do so they could make a start to raise money. Cr. Cockrell said the Council could not commit it.-clt ; at present it did not want to take on new work. He bad no doubt but that the Council would h<-!j.. Cr.-. Carkeek, Bills, and Broadway supported the request. Mrs Nash said there was no feeling between the present croquet club and the proposed one—it was only a move because the present area was inade quate. Tlie Mayor gave the deputation the assurance that the Council would move a strong recommendation to the incoming Council to assist in the project. Mrs Nash: If any money is raised would the Council subsidise it? The Mayor: I think so!