S.P.C.A.

Taranaki Daily News, 11 October 1917, Page 6

S.P.C.A.

A meeting of the New Plymouth branch of th» Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was held yesterday afternoon, when there were present: Mr. T. G. Hirst (chairman), Mesdnmes Gertrude Martin and Joseph Wilson, Misses Agnes Wilson and- Banwell. Rev. W, A. Sinclair, Etv. V. G. Harvie, Messrs E. Lash and R. C. Hughes. An apology for absence was received from Mr. F. W. Sandford.

The chairman reported that a good many animal essays, written by various members of the Mercy Bands of the district, had already come to-hand, and the rest should reach the secretary by October 15. The chairman thought the final judging should be done by someone >iot connected witli the society. The chairman and secretary were authorised to arrange for the appointment of judges. It was decided that the matter of selection of prizes, except those for the High School secondary _ competition, should be left with Mis9cs Wilson and Banwell, and that Miss Barr be requested to select the High School prizes.

In regard to alleged ill-treatment of horses at Tongaporutu, a report was received from the policb to the effect that the horses were now being well fed, rugged, and turned into a paddock at night. The police had given notification that the horses must be properly groomed and every attention given them. The inspector reported that he investigated a complaint that a horse was lying injured near the hospital, and that when he reached the spot the horse had already been destroyed by the police. Conditions at Hawera and Stratford were satisfactory. He brought up the matter of the liovse trough at the breakwater, which was in a very dirty condition. —The inspector was authorised to draw the attention of the Harbor Board officials to the fact. Mrs. Martin asked that she be relieved of the duties of treasurer, and .Miss Banwell was appointed in her stead. The total fuivd* in hand are £2l 17s Id, and accounts for 24s were passed for payment.