THAMES, this day.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXI, Issue 197, 20 August 1900, Page 5

THAMES, this day.

'< The whole of Thames, turned out on Saturday; night, to welcome Trooper A. Newdick back from the Transvaal. On arrival by the.-6.45 p.m. train from Auckland Trooper Newdick was met bjr the Mayor (Mr Trembath), Chairman of the Harbour Board (Mr. Deeble), and Councillors Davey, Poiilgraln, Radford, Roberts, Foy and Wood, and the Town Clerk (Mr Bruce), and many others. The Thames Navals, Hauraki Rifles, Fire Brigade and Ohinemuri No. 3 (Waihi) turned out in full force as an escort, with the Naval Band, Hauraki Band and Waihi Band. Trooper Newdick was first driven to the Bank of New Zealand corner, where the official .welcome took place. The MayOr, on behalf of the Thames, welcomed Trooper Newdick home. Mr Deeble also spoke. Trooper Newdick briefly returned thanks for his reception, after which the procession formed up and marched through the town. All along the route shops and private houses were illuminated,- while coloured fires and fireworks were let off by' the Fire Brigade. Returning to the Miners' Union Hall Trooper Newdick was lifted from his carriage and carried on the shoulders of comrades into the hall, where a smoke concert was held, the Mayor presiding, with Major Porritt (commander of district), Captains Adams and Walmsley, Lieutenants Xucas and Swindley as supporters. During the evening the Mayor presented Mr J. W. Ryan with a' certificate of the Royal Humane Society for saving" the life of J. Alley in the Thames River on July 11, 1898. Yesterday morning a church parade was held, the whole force attending St. George's Church. In the afternoon the Waihi Band gave a concert at the Hospital, and a collection was made on behalf of the building fund, over £20 being collected.