DISTRICT NEWS.

Taranaki Daily News, 7 April 1919, Page 7

DISTRICT NEWS.

OAKCKA. (Fi'om Our Own CorrespoDdent). On Wednesday, April 2nd., a record gathering assembled in ihe local ball to welcome home Privates F. H, K. Mace, W. R. Kells, M.M., and J. W- Muroott. When about to the returned boys with suitably inscribed medals, Captain Mace referred to the excellent work done by the New Zealanders, anil felt justified >n saying that as soldiers they were second to none. .To bear out these remarks, he mentioned that of the three being welcomed, one had won ihe Military Medal and another possessed the Gallipoli Eibben. One of the boys had broug'ht back a wife, to whom he (Captain Maee) hoped the ladles of New Zealand would extend the hand of friendship. Captain Mace also said that whilst ■we were rejoicing in welcoming the quests of the evening lie regretted there wss one of the Oakura boys—the late Private James Anderson—who would never return, and as a token of respect he asked the people to rise. Later, heartv cheers were given the boys, the Captain and the English bride. An excellent supper was handed round During the evening enjoyable songs were rendered by Mrs W. Linn and Miss Espin and recitations were given bv Mr Lacy. Music was supplied bv Mr A. K E. Pearson (piano) and Mr F. Morris (violin). Extras weTe given by Misses Horhett and Pearson and Mrs W. Morris. Messrs W. Sorensen and L. Morris made capable M.G's. Dancing was indulged in until the early hours of the i morning.