ST. ANDREW SOCIETY

Wairarapa Times-Age, 4 November 1940, Page 7

ST. ANDREW SOCIETY

SOCIAL IN MASTERTON, SEASON BROUGHT TO A CLOSE. The Saint Andrew Society’s gathering in Masterton on Saturday evening, the last of the 1940 season, proved a fitting conclusion to a highly successful season. The attendance far exceeded that at any previous gathering of the season; in fact, during the earlier part which was devoted to the entertainment of juveniles, the floor was somewhat overcrowded. The gathering took the form of a Halloween celebration, and, until supper (served at about 9.30 p.m.), the entertainment provided was largely in the nature of games and competitions, and country dances of a type suitable for performance by children. Thereafter, the usual programme of Scottish dancing was enjoyed, not only by the adults, but also by the many juveniles who managed to persuade their guardians to allow them to stay to the end. The success of the evening reflects great credit on the organising ability of Miss Patricia Ramsay and the team of juveniles who assisted her in the conduct of the gathering. The Scots “Little Britons” recently allocated to the Wairarapa were invited to the gathering as guests of the Society, and it was most gratifying to the Society that nearly all of them were able to attend, including a contingent from South Wairarapa. All threw themselves with zest into the festivities, and clearly thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The Wairarapa College Pipe Band, and numerous soldiers in uniform, were also guests of the Society. The band rendered two very acceptable selections during the evening, as well as performing in a street march. Highland dance solos were contributed by Masters Saxton and Ryan, and these items were thoroughly enjoyed. Pipe music for various dances was supplied by Chief’s Piper T. Pickett, and Pipers Trass. N. Dickel and A. Stewart, and added greatly to the enjoyment of the dancing. In a short address, the Chief welcomed the guests, and spoke of the satisfaction it gave the Society to entertain the young Scots who had recently come among them. It also gave the Society great pleasure, he said, to have at the" gathering the College Band. He also expressed regret at the news that Mr Hugh Lennie, the first member of the Society who had proceeded overseas on active service, had been reported wounded, and wished him a speedy recovery. The drawing took place, under the supervision of the Council, of the raffle of the Highland doll made for the purpose by Mrs Alan Graham. The winning number belonged to Mrs J. Turley, of Pukehou, Hawke's Bay. Mrs R. Page, 0.8. E., conducted the drawing. At the request of the Chief, three hearty cheers were given for Mrs Graham. whose effort had resulted in the patriotic funds being augmented by nearly £7. For a number of years Mr W. A. Tate, of Greytown, has donated apples for the Society's Halloween celebra* lions. For this kindly action, the Society (and especially its juvenile members) is truly grateful. It was announced that the usual

Saint Andrew's Night concert would be held at the Opera House on Saturday.. November 30.' It was expected that the programme, which would include some of New Zealand's most famous artists, would be of an even higher standard than those of previous years.