Lauder and Becks.

Alexandra Herald and Central Otago Gazette, Issue 700, 3 November 1909, Page 5

Lauder and Becks.

(Own Correspondent.)

The spring has been a bountiful one to settlers in this district,'although the dry parching winds arc now showing their disastrous effect on pasture. The lambing season has been good, and record percentages are recorded. All the runs on Blackstone, Home Hills and Lauder are looking well, and growth would receive much impetus if a steady rain set in.

A Defence Rifle Club has been formed ill the Lauder district, and a large number of men have been enrolled. A range has been selected at a favorablysituated spot, and it is hoped the movement will be attended with success. Mr C. Alexander is secretary pro. torn., and is working energetically to promote the club.

Becks is a very lively place considering the limited population. Of course the " record " established by one of the settlers, is the chief topic. I refer to the triplets presented by Mrs Albert Thurlow to her husband recently. The household has been visited by almost everyone in the district, whilst visitors and strangers alike have called to inspect the triplets, who are a really healthy trio. Cricket at Becks is very much in evidence, and we possess some adepts at wielding the willow. The first match of the season was played at Becks against Cambrians, and a goodly number oE people turned out to witness the game. The day was ideal for cricket, and the ladies kindly provided refreshments and delightful tea, for which they were accorded hearty cheers from tlie two teams. The match ended in an easy win for Becks, chiefly owing to the excellent stand made by T. Mee, who contributed 80 runs after a careful innings. A hard times rag ball was held in the Becks hall on Friday, 22nd ult. The weather was very unfavorable, but notwithstanding the rough night there was a large attendance. Amongst those present were a number of Matakanui residents. Excellent music was supplied by Mr E. 'Morgan (violin) and' Misses Edith and Maggie Mee (piano). Messrs A. Brown and K. Mee acted as M.C.'s. The grand march was led by Mr A. Brown and Mr It. L. Smith as " Mrs OThmagau" followed by 20 couples. There was a good display of rags and tatters and the judges had some difficulty in placing the prize winners. Miss A. Harrex gained the honors for the ladies' prize, and Mr Tliomas Hughes for the gentlemen's prize. Mr W. Howjohu, in making the presentation, stated that it was the first ball of the kind that had been held in Becks, and he was pleased to sec so many come from a distance to support such an amusing evening. Dancing was kept up till the small hours of the morning, when all wended their way homewards after spending a most enjoyable evening.