COUNTRY NEWS

Southland Times, Issue 18851, 17 June 1920, Page 6

COUNTRY NEWS

.MOSSBURN. (From Our Own Correspondent.) On Tuesday, June 8, a social and presentation was tendered to Mr and Mrs Alex. Roy, who are leaving the district, having sold their farm, and are retiring to live in Invercargill. The residents for many miles around turned up in goodly numbers to bid them farewell. Mr Roy has practically spent his whole life here, having come to Mossburn soon after leaving school, and has been farming here on his own account for nearly thirty years. As a practical farmer Mr Roy was recognised as a leading light in this locality, as his farm of 1000 acres will hear witness. Mossburn is noted as being the home of fescue, and Mr Roy this year was proclaimed the fescue king and he was well worthy of the title, as anyone passing his farm in February could see six binders at work.

The first part of the evening was devoted to songs and recitations. Mr F. J. Turner, in making the presentation, which consisted of a very handsome set of cutlery in an oak case suitably inscribed, and a silver epergne, referred at some length to the interest Mr Roy had taken in all matters appertaining to farming. He was a member of the Farmers’ Union executive, representing Mossburn, and proved himself a live member of that body, always urging farmers to support the Union more heartily and to make it an organisation worthy of its name and meaning. Mr Turner remarked that Mr Roy was a progressive farmer, always taking advantage of the most modern and up-to-date machinery to produce the best results from the land, and that he voiced the sorrow of all present at losing Mr and Mrs Roy from their midst and wished them prosperity and happiness in their new home.

Messrs T. Smith, E. Healy, W. Anderson, G. Chewings, H. Beer and J. Core followed In the same strain, eulogising the good qualities of the departing guests. The Rev. D. Fisher made a special presentation to Mrs Roy on behalf of the church of a very' handsome Doulton tea service and tray, remarking that Mrs Royhad been organist for many years and one of the most valued workers in the church. Mr Roy responded on behalf of Mrs Roy and himself, thanking the company for their splendid presentation which they would value all their lives as a memynto of Mossburn. He said they- felt gratified to see so many friends rally round them that night. An adjournment was then made to the supper room, where the ladies had prepared an excellent repast which was much appreciated. after which the evening was devoted to dancing, the music being supplied by Mrs Croshie (piano), Mr W. Young (cornet), and Mr H. Beer (violin). Altogether a very enjoyable evening was spent.