OLD THAMES BOYS

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume 60, Issue 4336, 27 September 1950, Page 10

OLD THAMES BOYS

ASSOCIATION REUNION A LARGE* ATTENDANCE GATHERING IN AUCKLAND The fourth reunion of the> Thames' Old Boys' Association was held on Saturday, September 9, in the Druids hall, Newton, Auckland. The president, Mr W. G. Aitken, was in the chair, and there was a full attendance qf other officers. Proceedings were opened by the large gathering singing “God Save the King.” The gathering was one of the largest held by the association—one that will be remembered 'by many of those present. The meeting of old friends and the ceremony and good feeling that existed throughout the evening’s entertainment made for full enjoyment and mutual greetings throughout the three hours and a half that were spent in each other’s company. The artists, were in the best of spirits, providing a programme of first class entertainment for all . The following took part in the programme. All the items were encored and some had to respond on a third recall:—-Messrs Jim Calvert, Philip Massey, George\Bell, W. Cunihan, M, Belsham, Bert leaser, IT. Jackson, Jack Riley, Hec Allen and L. Bickerton. After the interval many toasts were honoured. Mr Laycock proposed the health of members for over 20 years of the association, mentioning Mr Jim Calvert, who has been attending gatherings of old Thames boys for 45 years. Mr Bill Purcell has been accompanist for the same .period 1 . Mr Fred Blomfield responded on behalf of the old time artists, saying that jie was one of the foundation members of the association when it was formed 45 years' ago and he had been entertainment director. MJr Blomfield gave a resume of the growth and life of the association, saying that there were just as good artist® in entertainment associated with Thames and its home gatherings as in any other town in New Zealand. He contended that the gathering augured well for the future prosperity of the association.

Mr Jim Calvert and Mr Jack Riley further contributed musical items (songs), the programme comprising songs, comic songs, recitation®, comic stories and recitations. Mr Bill Purcell was an able accompanist. An appetising supper of biscuits and cheese’ and sandwiches as well as the cup that cheers was provided and enjoyed. A most enjoyable evening was concluded with the joining of hands and the singing of Auld Lang Syne.