CHRISTMAS CROWDS.

Taranaki Daily News, 27 December 1921, Page 4

CHRISTMAS CROWDS.

BRISK TRADE ON SATURDAY. INWARD TRAINS FULL. ■ A' very large crowd made an animated scene in Devon Street on Christmas Eve. Many were in holiday mood, and others were also doing Christmas shopping at the eleventh hour. The purchase of presents, or the addition of something for the Christmas fare, provides a wide range for the purchaser at the festive season. The volume of trade was good, and business people generally regarded the turnover in Christmas week as very satisfactory, though perhaps not quite up to that of last year. On Christn>as Eve most shops were very busy, and the street bore a general air of brightness. Pleasant weather conditions prevailed, and the presence of the Regimental Band (which played several selections) contributed to the enjoyment of those who found occasion to spend ■ an hour or two in town. The band later spent Christmas morning in playing carols in various parts of the town, with benefit to the funds. The crowds were very orderly, and, in fact, by midnight the majority had gone homeward. The police report that the conduct throughout was very good. On incoming trains there was very heavy traffic on Saturday night. The relief mail train (from Wanganui), which was comprised of six cars, all occupied, arrived at New Plymouth at 7.50 p.m., and the ordinary express, which was a little overdue (arriving at 8.29) was made up of thirteen full cars.