PRESENTATIONS.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LI, Issue 108, 25 April 1908, Page 5

PRESENTATIONS.

At the social given by the Fitzroy Fire Brigade on Thursday evening, op VOTtunity was taken to make a presentation from the brigade to ex-Captain; F. C. Griffiths and ex-Secretary A. Well-. cr. So well had the intention been "kept dark." that neither of the recipients had an inkling of what was in More for them, but the surprise was evidently of a most- pleasant nature, although on the spur of the moment it was evidently a somewhat dillicult task for them to find words in which to ade-t quately express their thanks for the prw-ent- received. ib. W. Cutficld, chairman of the Town Board, was deputed to make the presentations, and in handing the late captain a very handsome silver-plated, teapot, lie paid a high tribute of praise to the recipent for the nervices he had rendered tlie district in training the brigade and attaining such splendid remit-. He complimented the members on the good spirit which evidently existed between them and their late captain, and expressed deep regret at the unavoidable causes which necessitated such a zealous and efficient oflicer relinquishing bis command. At the same timij. the work he had done in the initial -tages of the brigade's career would lemain a- a testimony to his public -pirit. and the prominent position taken by the brigade in competition work. was evidence of the master hand which] had infused into the members a most creditable zeal and resulted in an envi-. able proficiency. On behalf of the brigade. Mr. Cutfield expressed a hope that ex-Captain Griffiths would accept the gift of the brigade a- an earnest expression of their appreciation of hi* valued services, and as a memento oft their esteem.

In presenting ex-Secretary A. Wellcr with a silver-mounted puriri walkingstick. Mr. CutfieM referred to the heavy work which had fallen to the secretary's lot during the initiation and growth of the brigade, and the able way in which the duties had lieen carried out.

Both recipients suitaldy acknowledged the gifts, and warmly thanked the memliers of the brigade for showing their appreciation of the services rendered in such a tangible way. The greatest interest was taken by those present over these presentation-, and both the recipients were accorded hearty applause. The handsome presents were much admired, and an appropriate inscription appeared on each, and there is little dotiW hut that they ■will be treasured as mementoes of a pleasant tenure of office in one of the noblest causes that exists.