CHRISTMAS GIFTS

Evening Post, Volume CVII, Issue 21, 25 January 1924, Page 9

CHRISTMAS GIFTS

QUESTIONS ABOUT HOSPITAL CHEER,

"Why -was £219 spent on toys?" was a question asked by Mr. A. R." Hornblow at yesterday's meeting of the Hospital Board. "Only £100 was expended last year. Why was more spent this year?" The question was asked when the Hospital Committee reported that donations, etc., had been received during the month amounting to £283 lls 3d, and of thai £219 was 'expended in providing extras and toys lor the inmates of the Hospital and its institutions. The chairman (Mr. F. Castle) pointed out that there were over 400 people concerned in the expenditure, and the £219 spread over that number in the, way of providing a little extra in luxuries did not appear to be fob much. Mr. Hornblow was not satisfied. The board had spent "£IOO on toys and extras last year, and this year it spent £119 more. Why? Mr. Castle admitted that such, was the case, but Mr. Hornblow still protested and persisted in demanding an explanation of the increase. He was not against giving the children toys, though. Mr. J. W. Butler reminded Mr. Hornblow that there were many generousminded people in the community who subscribed money for the Hospital, and if it Vvas not expended they would naturally want to know the reason why. "It's all a storm in a teacup," remarked the chairman as Mr. Hornblow finally sat down. The board unanimously passed a hearty vote of thanks to the many generous donors of cheques, gifts, goods, and toys during Christmas, and to the matron, medical and nursing staffs, and others who assisted in decorating the wards and helping in the annual festivities.