STRATFORD.

Taranaki Daily News, 30 April 1918, Page 3

STRATFORD.

(Prom Our Own Correspondent) I- 4 '' communications, letters, etc., left with Mr. H. J. Hopkins, bookseller, will receive prompt attention ] Stratford, April 2!». The weather to-day is anything but good, cold, driving showers prevailing. Borough councillors meet this evening to consider the estimates, etc. On Wednesday the burgesses will exercise their privileges and select a representative to succeed Mr. A. Coleman (resigned). Messrs E. H. Cameron, T. Richardson, and C. D. Sole have been nominated.

The weather looks anything but favorable for the householders' meeting tonight. The report to be submitted covering the year's work- is fairly comprehensive. During 1!)17 the average attendance was li"7 —53(1 primary and 141 secondary—and for the first quarter, 1(118, 72# average and roll call 803. The last examinations showed that 58 scholars secured certificates of proficiency and tbree for competency. Two pupils were successful in winning senior and one pupil junior National Scholarship, one boy finishing second in New Zealand in the senior examinations. Reference is made to the success of H. Albert Anderson, who, having won a University Scholarship, was, on leaving the school, presented by the committee with a copy of Shakespeare's works. The work accomplished at the Model Dairy Farm and the value it should prove to boys who study agriculture is also commented upon' There was some remarkable shooting at the last competition (clay pigeons) held here by the Gun Club. For the president's (H. Harrison) trophy, a silver-mounted inlaid oak trav, Messrs F. Whittle (20yds) and A. Nelson (16yds) scored the possible (10), and J. Wheeler (17yds) and .T, Jackson (15yds) were one down. Whittle and Nelson divided the cash, but a further shoot was necessary before Whittle could claim the trophy. The second match, 12 birds, saw five marksmen all score possibles—F. Whittle (22vds, ,7). Wheeler (18yds), .T. Jackson (16yds), B. Green (15yds), and F. Casey (13yds). Jackson and Green eventually divided the sweepstake. The final shoot was the "box" competition, and F. Whittle (30yds) again proved the victor. Mr. Hugh Cameron t as handicapper and referee, proved a most efficient official, whilst the secretary, Mr. C. L. Grant, is an enthusiast in gun matters. The takings at the Patriotic Mart (Mesdatnes Boon and Cooper) on Saturday were £l3 14s and the Tea Rooms (Mrs. Dixon £7). Mrs. Betts has control of the shop next Saturday.

The long winter evenings are to hand. So those who find time tedious will be pleased to learn that Mr- C. E. James has just opened up some fine winter pastimes—games that will instruct the child and interest parent. Those who enjoy a good book can obtain great variety here, whilst if in search of a holiday, wedding, or christening gift, you will certainly find same amongst the many thousands of articles on sale at C. E. James's warehouse.