BLACKBALL NOTES

Grey River Argus, 28 October 1948, Page 8

BLACKBALL NOTES

(Our Own Correspondent). BLACKBALL, Oct 27. The death of Mr B. J. Williams, Brodie street, last week removed a well known and highly respected citizen from our miast, and one whose place will be hard to fill. Die lace Mr Williams was a native of Merewether, New South Wales, and came to this country 45 years ago. He has resided here ever since, except for a break of two years, when he and his wife visited his native State. H e was a very handy man and useful citizen. He was also a musician of no mean talent ana was in much demand in his younger days as an accompanist and entertainer, at local functions. An ardent trades unionist and strong supporter of the Labour Party, his loyalty never wavered. He was an uncompromising advocate of fair play and played a splendid part in trying to leave the world better than he f°4 n 1 c ; it. His passing will be keenly A elt by his wide circle of friends, whose sympathy will be extended to ms widow and family in their saj bereavement. The funeral of the late Mr Williams took place at Blackoall cemetery last Thursday afternoon. There was a large gathering of mourners showing the high esteem and respect in which the deceased was held, floral tributes were heartfelt. Ihe services of the Church of England at the house and later at the graveside, were taken by the Rev. B. D. Jamieson, of Ahaura. The bearers were Messrs R. Ward, R. Duncan, J. Bligh, W. McTaggart, R. Mountford, and W. Driscoll, all old friends of deceased. The Labour Youth movement is gradually taking shape in Westland, youth centres having been established in various parts. The area officer for Westland, Mr S. Gladstone, intends visiting Blackball in the near future for the purpose of interesting the youth of this township in me movement. It is to be hoped, when the visit does eventuate, in the near future, that the youth of the village will roll up and take a keen Interest in this movement. In spite of the continued inclemency of the weather, quite a crowd of the local racing enthusiasts attended Greymouth on Saturday and again on Monday, and, in spite of the rain, enjoyed both days' outings. There was" no rumour of any sensational win.

The Domain Board held its last meeting with the Ladies Bazaar Committee on Tuesday evening to put the final touches to the forthcoming Bazaar, which will be held in the Miners’ Flail to-day, tomorrow, and Saturday. It promises to be a huge success.

Some 12 stalls will be in operation, with all sorts of conceivable articles on display, with Lucky Dips, side shows, etc., to create fun enough to satisfy both old and young. As an outcome of this effort, it is hoped the grandstand and change rooms will soon be a substantial fact, bringing the Domain into line with the rest of the country.

Mr and Mrs Roy Williams, Riccarton, who have been here owing to a bereavement in the family, have left on their return.

Mr J. Kernick, Christchurch, was a visitor last week, attending the funeral of his brother-in-law, the late Air B. J. Williams.

Mr J. Clark, Stafford Street, has gone to Christchurch on a holiday visit.

Mr and Mrs MacGougan have left for Wellington on a holiday visit. The coffee stall, at the corner of Hart and Hilton streets, so successfully carried on by Mrs H. MacGougan since its inception, has been acquired by Miss Haisty, and will be carried on bv her in future.