COMBINED FUNCTION

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume 53, Issue 32429, 10 May 1944, Page 6

COMBINED FUNCTION

FAREWELL AND A WELCOME DANCE HELD AT COROMANDEL On Friday, April 14, St. George’s Hall, Coromandel, was the scene of a farewell and a welcome home, organised by the Coromandel Patriotic Committee. There was a very good attendance of the public in. spite of the short notice given. A programme of music was played outside the hall prior to the dance by the Coromandel Silver Band. 'Mr C. C. Rae, in bidding farewell and Godspeed to A.C.I. F. Charles Little, presented him with a wallet on behalf of the people of Coromandel together with their good wishes for his safety and return to New Zealand shores again. Aircraftman Little suitably replied. A hearty welcome home was then accorded to Sgt. Ray G. Denize who had been wounded, in action in the Pacific and recently returned to New Zealand. Mr Rae in extending a welcome on behalf 'of Coromandel residents said that Sgt. Denize' was the first Coromandel boy who had returned wounded from action in the Pacific and that the people here were united in expressing their pleasure on his return and hoped, he would soon be fit again. Sgt. Denize gave an interesting- talk on camp life in the Islands and thanked those present for the hearty welcome home they had given him. “For They Are Jolly Good Fellows” was heartily sung and three lusty cheers resounded.

The music for the dancing* was supplied hy Mrs D. Stewart and extras were played by Mrs 'Sparling and Hans Brown. x Eric Gamble carried out the duties of M.C. in his usual 'breezy manner.

The 'first Monte Carlo was won by Miss M. Gamble and H. 'Dick and the second !by Miss V. Davies and N. Davies.

An enjoyable supper was served by the committee after which dancingcontinued till the early hours.