CHRISTMAS TREE GATHERING.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVIII, 20 December 1924, Page 5

CHRISTMAS TREE GATHERING.

KAPONGA METHODISTS. Though the unfavourable weather doubtless pie veil ted many country residents from attending, the Christmas tree gathering ana fair held in the Kapongiv Town Hall on Wednesday evening under the auspices of the Methodist Church, attracted a large number of patrons lrom the town and its immediate vicinity. Organised Ijy a committee of ladies under the supervision of Mrs. R, G. Cook, with the object of adding to the season’s iestivjties and assisting in the wo-rk of . the church, the function, despite the adverse 'conditions, achieved a worthy success, reflecting much credit upon those to whom its preparation was due.

A huge Christmas tree, erected in the middle ol the hall, was covered with a variety of presents, from which each child and adult received a suitable memento, the distribution being directed by a venerable Father Christmas' arrayed in the conventional scarlet hood and robes. Requests for his services were so numerous and rapid that lie was unable to give tseach his personal attention, and was compelled to obtain assistance from several helpers. Stalls and 'competitions also added to the general interest, and catered for requirements not provided for at the Christmas tree. These departments were conducted by the following Confectionery stall, Mrs. J. J. .Davison; bran tub, Miss R l . Evans; fish-pond, Miss M. Guy.; hoop-la-, Mr. R. Moss. A dainty supper was provided by Mi*. A. E. Moss and Mrs. J. Tattersa.il and helpers. The ladies’ nail-driving competition was keenly contested, the prize being won by Miss E. Kennard. •- Mr. A. Sadler secured the verdict, in the hat trimming competition for gentlemen. Speaking on behalf of the church, the Rev. G. H. Kendon expressed appreciation of the generous public support accorded the fair, and tendered sincere thanks to all associated in the work. Considering the inclemency of the elements, he thought tlm( the attendance rvas miK-li greater than might reasonably have been anticipated. and the church authorities viewed with extreme gratification the encouraging results which had rewarded the efforts of the enthusiastic and efficient workers who had directed the function.