OBITUARY

Dominion, Volume 31, Issue 204, 26 May 1938, Page 12

OBITUARY

4 Mr. W. G. Nightingale The death occurred in Napier Hospital yesterday morning of Mr. Wib liam George Nightingale, who for about 40 years had filled the office of secretary to the Waipukurau Jockey Club, says a "Dominion” Special Service message. Mr. Nightingale was born in Dunedin just over 83 years ago, and as a youth was apprenticed to Mr. George Dowse, a saddler who was also handicapper for many years for the Dunedin Jockey Club. It was probably in this environment that Air. Nightingale first obtained a knowledge and love of racing. In the early days he was very prominent in amateur theatrical circles in Dunedin, having taken part in many productions. He also took part on several occasions in professional performances with leading travelling artists, His memory of old-time racing and theatricals was always vivid and interesting. Coming to Napier about fifty years ago, Mr. Nightingale entered the service of the' late Air. John McVay, saddler, with whom he remained for some years. A natural taste for writing in connection with sport brought about his appointment as sporting writer 43 years ago, and under the penname of “The Squire” he was well known. He had for about 40 years been secretary of the Waipukurau Jockey Club, and had helped to bring that club into a prominent position. He was twice'married, and is survived by a widow and three sons and one daughter by his first wife.