POLICE VISIT CLUB

Auckland Star, Volume LXXIV, Issue 228, 25 September 1943, Page 6

POLICE VISIT CLUB

TWO OFFENDERS FINED

Following a visit paid by the police to El Rey Country Club, Mount Roskill, on the night of August 14, Cecil Berry Peterson, the occupier of the premises, and Bruce John Calcott, were charged on summons in the Police Court yesterday with using the premises as a place of resort for the consumption of liquor, and permitting liquor to be consumed in a dance hall. Mr. Trevor Henry represented both defendants, who pleaded guilty. Sub-Inspector Joyce said that when two sergeants called at the club on August 14 they found 186 people present. Two men were employed in the bar where patrons, who brought their own liquor, left it until they desired to consume it. Calcott was looking after the club, while Peterson was absent in Rotorua. The club was well conducted, and there was no signs of drunkenness, added Mr. Joyce.

Mr. Henry said El Rey was the oldest cJub in Auckland, and had always been exceedingly well conducted. No finger of suspicion of any wrongful conduct had ever been pointed at the club, which catered for a type of entertainment demanded by people in these days.

On the first charge Mr. J. H. Luxford, S.M., fined Peterson £20 and cqsts and Calcott £10 and costs. Each was convicted and discharged on the second charge.