BIRD ROAD PICNIC.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXV, Issue 55, 8 March 1915, Page 8

BIRD ROAD PICNIC.

SPORTS AND CONCERT.

Though the weather was far from promising on Thursday last, when the Bird Road Picnic and Sport stook place, the result was decidedly satisfactory. This is, perhaps, chiefly accounted for by the fact that under the guidance of Mr G. Giddy (Chairman of the Committee), and many willing workers, the day's arrangements Mere so planned as to ensure success, despite the elements of the weather. Besides the annual picnic, the occasion was regarded as a ce'o ration in connection with the rec.Vit enlargement of the school, which was much needed to cope with the increasing number of children under the control of Miss Berry, head teacher. As early as nine o'clock in the morning, parents were on the scene with their families and with gifts for the auction sale, the proceeds of which went to the Belgian Relief Fund. Luncheon was provided at noon in the schoolroom, after which races took place, about £3 being donated to the winners as prizes. The gift auction sale was then held, consisting not only of live stock and produce, but wearing apparel made by the ladies, Mr Lamason acting as Auctioneer. After the sale, at the request of the auctioneer, the company sang "God Save the King." Tea was served in the afternoon, Mr F. A. Cramer being the caterer. At the concert in the evening, Mr 'Giddy acted as chairman. Despite the inclement, weather, the schoolroom was full. The chairman briefly referred to the object of the gathering and to the history of the school up to the present time, remarking on the excellent building which they now possessed. An excellent programme of music and song was then contributed as follows : Pianoforte solo, Miss Williams; action song by infants, "Little 80-peep" ; song* Miss A. Breen ; Highland dance, Master Bart Orr, with Duncan Ferguson playing the bagpipes. Song, Airs Massey; physical drill by six boys; < musical monologue, -Mrs Phillips; pianoforte solo, Miss W. Fitzgerald; song. Miss Kennedy; recitation, Captain Allen (encored); song, Mrs Massey; dance by school girls; recitation, "The Absent Minded Beggar," Captain Allen, who, on asking for contributions, received the sum of £2 15s lid towards the Belgian Belief Fund. Sword dance. Master Orr. Mrs Reynolds kindly acted as pianist. Among the visitors present were Messrs H. Trimble (chairman), and R. Masters, of the Taranaki Education Board. Mr Trimble, in expressing his pleasure at being present, congratulated the children on their attainments, especially on the excellent manner in which they performed their physical drill. .Mr Masters also spoke on school matters, remarking that they were fortunate in having such an excellent teacher as Miss Berry, to whom they all owed wo much. At the close dancing was indulged in, Mrs M. Reynolds and Mjss Fitzgerald being at the piano, Mr Bart Orr playing the violin. The gathering broke up at one a.m. Altogether Bird Road had a most successful day. The committee expect that at least £25 will be the result.of the day's efforts for the benefit of the Belgian Relief Fund.