ELTHAM.

Taranaki Daily News, 9 January 1918, Page 3

ELTHAM.

(From Our Own Correspondent). I Eltham, Jan. ft. | Owing to Dr. Cooper being engaged in medical duties, the inquest on the remains of the late J. B. Sim was not held this morning, but was to be lHd some time during the day. From what can be gathered, deceased evidently desired to have a dip in the river, whicli at this place is extremely shallow. . For that purpose he had sequred a towel, and at six o'clock was Sbseryed making in the direction of the river. v At 8 o'clock Mr. Hindi, caretaker of the Taumata Park, noticed a body in the river, and informed the police. Constable Townsend immediately removed the body from the water, the depth of which was 9 inches. Deceased was lying face downwards, and one shoulder was well out of water, and both arms outstretched. The body was cold, but not rigid, thus indicating that the man had not been any length of time in the water. The late J. B. Sim took an active part in many things; he was for a time secretary of the local Masonic lodge, School Committee, Licensed Victuallers, Farmers' Union, etc., and for many years correspondent to the Hawera Star.

Speaking to Mr. A. H. Andrews, chairnian of the School Committee, he informed me that the committee hopes to have the picture benefit in aid of their funds in February. Naturally he would have preferred the Borough Council making a straight-out donation to the school funds in aid of the swimming baths, but with fair public patronage he hopes to have a small credit balance to present to the [ annual meeting in April

Mr A. A. Stewart, one of ihe legal fraternity, nfter enjoying ilie surf and sunshine at New Plymouth. Ims returned 'to business. A great number of Klthamites are still basking in bathing attire at New Plymouth.