New Zealand.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LVII, Issue 275, 30 April 1915, Page 8

New Zealand.

A NEW ZEALAND OFFICER KILLED. Auckland, Last Night. News has 'been received in Auckland of the death of Captain H. J. J. Walker, son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry C. H. Walker, of Remucra. The text of the telegram from the Secretary of State for War is as follows: "I deenlv regret that Captain Walker, Ist Hoyal Warwickshire Regiment, was killed in action on April 25. Lord Kitchener expresses sympathy." Advice was received on .January 22nd that Lieutenant Walker had been promoted to the rank of captain. His name was mentioned in dispatches the following month for "gallantry and distinguished service in the field." Captain Walker was -25 years of age. ASHBURTON'S EFFORT. NEARLY £14,000 RAISED.

Ashburton, Last Night. The Ashburton Couuty Belgian fete, lorganised in aid of the relief fund, attracted about 10,000 people from all 'parts of central Canterbury, and, though still in progress, may be stated to he a brilliant success. It was commenced this morning ,wth a monster procession, which included many fine spectacular displays and humorous tableaux, and which took thirty minutes to pass a given point. Many interesting and amusing competitions were held. Cattle, horses, etc., which had been donated to the fund, were auctioned and realised over £2OOO. Great interest centred in the Queen of tue Carnival competition, which had been in nrogress for some weeks past, and which closed amidst great ■excitement. At 3.30 the result was announced as follows: Miss M. Harrison (Raflaia district candidate), 103,2-21) votes; Miss 1). Wilson (Methven district), 150,324; Miss 1). Keith (sports clubs), 101,2«0; Miss H. Baird (auction--eers), 80,000; -Miss M. FarreJl (Hinds -and Mayfield districts), 83,031; Miss E. Fletcher (retailers of Ashburton), 45,607. The total votes were 633,500, representing over £7900, of which votes representing £2700 odd were put in during the last few minutes prior to the closing of the poll. The fete is being continued •in the Domain to-night, when the crowning of the queen and a grand concert will eventuate. .It is confidently anticipated that the total nett proceeds will reach £14,000. The fete is under the royal patronage of King Albert of the Belgians.