“TOC H.”

Grey River Argus, 27 May 1938, Page 7

“TOC H.”

Group Formed in Greymouth

A well attended meeting was held in the Borough Chamber last evening -to discuss the formation oi a group in Greymouth of the organisation known as “Toe H.” The Mayor, Mr F. Kitchingham, who considerately' transferred the Council’s first meeting from the chamber to the Town Clerk’s office, presided during the preliminary stages, and on nis retirement to continue his official duties, Mr W. Peebles, of Kokiri was voted to the chair. Before vacating the chair, the Mayor wished the meeting every success in its efforts. One point that had impressed him was the community interest which was one of the “planks” of the organisation and one which could be advantageously used to assist the community life in Greymouth. The group, if formed, would find plenty of scope for its energies, if It made up its mind to assist in local political matters (Laughter). Mr Gordon Turvey, travelling secretary tor the Toe H in New Zealand gave an interesting resume of the origin and functions of Toe II in the course of which he said Toe. H originated in Talbot House, Poperinghe, during the war and has since become established throughout the Empire to transmit to future generation, the spirit of fellowship and service manifest by all ranks during the war. In an age when fear is rampant Toe H breeds friendship and understanding and aims to break down the barrier of prejudice which separates men. In spite of the hurry of modern life, men still fear loneliness. Not only' in isolated places, but in towns and cities men suffer loneliness because they cannot find congenial friends. Toe H can give friendship to the lonely and the stranger, and, as is done in New Plymouth and Nelson, can bring good cheer to those in hospital. Other services which r'oc H has performed includes t ie running of boys’ clubs of which the Cobbers’ Club in Christchurch is an example. Fair-mindedness is another aim of Toe H, for the understanding of another man’s point — view is the first step to better feeling. To conquer hate would be to end the strife of all the ages, but for men to get to know one another is not difficult, and ,t is half the battle.

Among those present were the following members from other centres: Messrs Augrey Martin (Christchurch) Regional Secretary for Canterbury; W. S. Peebles (Lyttelton), temporarily stationed at Kokiri; Derrick Collier (Dunedin and Nelson), Harold Hill (Christchurch), H. Taylor (Moana).

At the conclusion of Mr Turvey’s remarks the chairman invited questions relative to the movement which were asked and answered, after which a halt was made for refreshments. On resuming, it was unanimously resolved to form a group in G'eymouth and to hold the first meeting in the Scouts’ Hall next Tuesday evening. On the motion of Mr Turvey a vote of hearty' appreciation was accorded to the Mayor for allowing the meeting to be held in the Council room, and for presiding, also to the Town Clerk (Mr F. H. Denton) and Messrs Lane and Garner for their generous assistance.