DINNERS SAVED

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29909, 24 August 1962, Page 10

DINNERS SAVED

“A Very Near Thing”

“What will the United Service Hotel do with all those dinners?” was a frequent question in Christchurch when the Thai Royal visit was postponed. But warning of the impending postponement had been received at 2.30 p.m and confirmed at 3 p.m. just when preparation of evening meals for 84 members of the Royal entourage was about to begin. Beef, pork, chicken, duckling and turkey had not been taken out of the coolers and Indian curries and European dishes had not been started. But it was a "very near thing.” “We’ve missed our finest hour,’’ said the manager (Mr L. P. Gregory). “The staff were so keyed up in expectation and we expected huge crowds in Cathedral square as employees from all over Christchurch knocked off work. The balcony has floodlighting in anticipation of appearances by the Royal couple this evening and flowers and shrubs had been placed outside.” Mr Gregory said he knew everyone would be equally excited about the party’s arrival this morning but working commitments might prevent the vast congregation of people which could be expected between 5 and 6 p.m. yesterday.