FIRST BANQUET OF WELSH SOCIETY

Press, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22344, 7 March 1938, Page 14

FIRST BANQUET OF WELSH SOCIETY

SONGS IN NATIONAL LANGUAGE

For probably the first time in New Zealand, the National Anthem was sung in Welsh at the first banquet of the Christchurch Welsh Society, which was held in Hay’s lounge on Saturday evening. With the exception oi two duets, all songs were sung in Welsh: and the national character of the programme appealed greatly to the large number present. The toast of St. David was proposed by Mr J. H. Roberts in Welsh, and in replying to the toast of “The Ladies,” Miss M. Thomas spoke in the same language. Among those who replied to the toast of “The Visitors,” proposed by Captain Davies, were Mr C. Morgan Williams. M.P., Mr O. Jones dlawera), Mr L. Rowlands (Kaiapoi). and Mr C. H. Cook (Runanga).

A bound visitors’ book was presented to the society by the president (Mr R. Wyqqe-Owen). At the monthly Welsh song service an address was given by Mr O. R. Jones on “St. David The Idealist.” Special music was conducted by Mr Griffiths.

A presentation was made to Mr Owen Jones, of Hawera, during the social hour, in recognition of his untiring efforts in carrying messages to people in Wales on his recent visit to the Coronation. The Welsh dragon flag, brought back by Mr Jones, was presented to the society with an enlarged portrait of the donor.