HOW THE N.Z. BOYS SPENT CHRISTMAS IN LONDON.

Taihape Daily Times, 23 February 1918, Page 6

HOW THE N.Z. BOYS SPENT CHRISTMAS IN LONDON.

Special programmes were prepared for the entertainment of troovfs at the Y.M.C.A. huts in London at Christmas time. At the Shakespeare Hut, where the New Zealand boys meet, a variety concert, organised by Lady Forbes Robertson, was given- on the Saturday preceding Christmas Day. On the Monday a trip round London in the forenoon, an orchestral concert at 5, and Christmas Carols at 8 o'clock. On Christmas Day itself the National Executive of the N.Z. Y.M.C.A gave the boys free entertainment for the whole day, a dinner of roast beef and plum pudding was served, followed in the afternoon by sports, music, and a conjuring entertainment. Tea was served at 5 o'clock/ and afterwards Father Christmas gave away presents from the Christmas Tree —something new for the boys from this side of the world, who hi • hitherto spent Christmas under sunny skies. In the evening there was more games, music and amusement, and on Boxing Day the lady workers of Shakespeare Hut entertained the soldiers at games, tea, and music. Thus, in a very practical manner, does the Y.M.C.A. endeavour at all times to brine; a little home touch to the boys who are so many miles away from friends and loved ones, and we feel sure that our readers will respond generously to the Y.M.C.A. Red Triangle Day appeal for war-work funds. This appeal has been made necessary in order that the work of the Association might be maintained throughout the year. The coming crisis on the West front will entail a great deal of suffering amongst our boys, and will necessitate larger service by the Y.M.C.A. The sum of £IOO,OOO is required to carry on the work for the next twelve months, and we have no doubt whatever that this amount will be raised.