STRATFORD BEAUTIFYING SOCIETY.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXI, Issue 32, 5 September 1916, Page 7

STRATFORD BEAUTIFYING SOCIETY.

r l he following is the report of the past two years’ operations of the Society :

Two seasons have elapsed since the last annual meeting of the above Society. During this time, however, the Society has made progress, and at present stands in a sound position.

In fulfilment of Mr S. H. James’ suggestion, the Railway authorities were approached iu reference to allowing the Society to place ornamental shrubs iu tubs on the railway station platform, near the iron fence. This the authorities agreed to; Messrs John Halo and Sons, of Blenheim, donated the necessary shrubs; and the President of the Society donated the tubs. These shrubs are doing well.

A carnival queen contest, in conjunction with the local band, was put into operation, but owing to the war it was deemed advisable to discontinue the contest. The Society, however, benefited to the extent of £1()U, and thus placd the Society in its present financial position. Mr Thomson’s motion regarding planting trees at Broadway North was duly carried out. The trees, however, are only making slow progress, owing to somewhat adverse local conditions, and to wilful damage by some evilminded person or persons. The shrubs on the river bank have been from time to time cleaned, and are making fair progress. They will soon cover what was once an unsightly place.

In accordance with the minutes of sth October last, the Society made arrangements whereby they have leased the portion of land abutting the Toko line, at the station. The Society haye leased on the same terms as the

Patea River bank site, and at a peppercorn rental; plus cost of preparing plan, etc. After digging and laving out the plot, surrounding it with a strong wire netting fence, and grassing, it has, owing to the failure of the grass, been redug and planted with suitable flowering shrubs. Those shrubs were kindly donated by the New Plymouth nurserymen, and local lovers of horticulture.

Your committee lias been approached with a view to beautifying the now entrance, now being formed, fivui Broadway to the railway station, and expressed ready willingness to undertake the work. One side of the entrance has still to be completed by the authorities before the Society can well start, and it is to be hoped that no length of time will be allowed to elapse before completion. Mr 11. McK. Morison has kindly offered to donate flowering shrubs.

With the money still available and greater enthusiasm, the Society should still further progress. Since the closing of the carnival on the outbreak of war, no special appeal has been made to the public, but the Society would welcome as members all in the' c&mmunMy who have at heart the progress of the town. vS Tom £ coiilniittee desires to place on record its appreciation of the services rendered by the press, of the kindly readiness of the Railway Department and officers to assist, and to the donors oi shrubs and plants.