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Wairarapa Times-Age, 24 January 1940, Page 4

Volunteers for Special Force. About 700 men employed on Public Works in New Zealand have volunteered for the special body of 377 men called for from the Public Works and Railways Departments for service overseas in the construction of railways and other works, according to a statement by the Minister of Public Works. Mr Semple, last night. He said this figure did not include men who had volunteered from the Railways Department. Giant Stingray.

A giant stingray, weighing 2401 b., was caught in the Pahautanui reaches of Porirua Harbour recently by two Wellington residents. They had set lines for snapper overnight, and on going out in their small outboard boat the next morning found the stringray securely hooked. With the help of the outboard motor they managed to tow the huge fish to shallow water. It put up a spirited struggle as the men approached it with gaffs, and both were drenched to the skin before their prize was secured. It measured sft. 6in. across and 7ft. 6in. long. Cruel Prank.

An attempt to cause serious mutilation to a prize ram owned by Mr C. L. Crooks, of Waipukurau, was foiled only by the timely discovery of the plight of the unfortunate animal. The ram was located in a paddock on the Takapau Road. and. when found, was nearly dead, with thick string bound tightly about its body. That it was not the work of children may be deduced from the fact that it would take two strong men to throw the ram before affixing the string. The occurrence is all the more serious in view of the fact that it was perpetrated on the eve of the Waipukurau Show, at which it was to be exhibited.

“Presented With Twins.’’ “I have been fortunate enough to have my wife present me with twins." read part of a letter handed to Mr H. A. Young. S.M.. in the Magistrate's Court at Christchurch from a defendant in explanation of his failure to obtain a licence for his radio, states the “Press.” This was one of a series of incidents during the hearing of prosecutions for unlicensed radios which provided counsel and officials with some amusement. “In view of the twins. I think we might say that your luck continues,” commented the magistrate, as he convicted and discharged the defendant on payment of the fees owing. “With two children in the house, I should hardly think you want a radio now." he added, amid laughter.