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Press, Volume CXIV, Issue 33434, 16 January 1974, Page 1

Mr W. Robilllard, a Guernsey team official, presenting the Mayor of Christchurch (Mr N. G. Pickering) yesterday with two square 10s coins, a gift from the Bailiff and people of Guernsey. They were minted in 1966 to celebre.te the 900th anniversary of the Norman Conquest, and their value is about SNZIO.

From left to right the picture shows Mr Pickering, Mr C. Le Vallee, team manager; Mr D. M. Thompson, New Zealand attache; and Mr Robiliiard.

Mr Robiliiard was surprised to discover early this week that his history w?.s linked to New Zealand in a closer way than he had expected. On his arrival at Christchurch Airport on Monday, he received a personal welcome from the 1925 All Black, Mr A. C. Robilllard. “We came to the conclusion we had the same greatgrandfather,” Mr Robiliiard said.

Both the Guernsey e.nd the Isle of Man teams attended yesterday’s reception.

The Guersey team is 12strong (including three officials), and the Isle of Man sent a party of 20. They will compete in shooting, athletics and bowls. The Isle of Man will compete in cycling and swimming.

Both teams were confident that their selection from small populations, and in the case of Guernsey, l?.ek of an athletics track, would be no handicap. “We have kept our standard very high, and every competitor has had to earn his selection,” Mr Robilliard said.

The officials were lavish in their praise of the Games facilities and accommodation services.