“Les Petits Gendarmes” On The March

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29893, 6 August 1962, Page 2

“Les Petits Gendarmes” On The March

(From Our Own Reporter)

TIMARU, August 5.

Although they are not “on She strength" of the Timaru Police, members of the ncwly-fonmed girls’ marching team, Les Petits Gendarmes, receive instruction in the police station yard under the supervision of their instructor, Timaru’s only policewoman. Constable D. Pomace. The team’s mascot is seven-year-old Patricia Callaean, daughter of Detective P. R. Callanan and Mrs Callanan.

The leader of the team is Collette O’Keeffe. Other members of the team are Frances Morgan, Ellen Howard, Marlene Rodgers, Joy Whitburn, Jillian O’Sullivan. Daphne Gifkins, Barbara Shortus, Jill Ashton, and Gwen Spicer. Their ages range from 14 to 19, and their average height is sft 4in. The team trains on Tuesdays and Sundays, and will soon be practising every night. The local! competitions will begin in November, and Les Petits Gendarmes hope to make their debut then.

They will wear the policewomen’s hat, white shirt, navy-blue tie, navy-blue jacket, white skirt, boots, and gloves. There will be no distinguishing badges, but it is hoped to provide insignia at a later date. When Constable Pomare was at the Police Training School. Trentham, candidates were encouraged to get to know representatives of sports bodies, and to organise teams of their own. Formerly a member of the Ajax Marching Team (Nelson), she formed a group in Timaru. Various titles were suggested, such as Police Cadets, and Police Grenadiers, until the name. Les Petits Gendarmes was suggested. as a compromise to cover policemen and policewomen, by the manager and president of the committee. Constable E. N. Alien. Other members of the committee are the parents of the girls, and Constable Pomare.

Constable Pomare said it was possible that a midget team would be entered in the competitions next year. Meanwhile, every effort was being made to assist Le Petits Gendarmes, she said.

Horse Society.— Black and white silhouettes of horses taking jumps, and sketches of bunting scenes, decorated the tea kiosk at Riccarton racecourse on Saturday evening, when the Canterbury area of the New Zealand Horse Society held its annual cocktail party. Big bowls of spring blossom were other features of the decor. About 240 guests attended, and were welcomed by the area president (Mr W Duncan) and Mrs Duncan. A country-style buffet supper was served.