SUNNY SIDE ASYLUM.

Lyttelton Times, Volume LXVII, Issue 8123, 21 March 1887, Page 6

SUNNY SIDE ASYLUM.

PATIENTS’ TREAT,

The annual outdoor treat of the patients of the Sunny side Lunatic Asylum, took place on Saturday afternoon, and passed off without the slightest hitch. At 2 o’clock the patients left the buildings and assembled in the grounds, the men going to one paddock and the women to another. A few only who were too unwell to leave the wards, remained in the building. The Addington Band, under the direction of Mr Pooley, was stationed so that their music could be enjoyed equally by the persona in both paddocks. A large number of relations and friends of the patients, with other visitors, were present, among them Lieutenant Pratt and several members of the B. Battery, who had come in their uniforms to assist in giving the patients a pleasant outing. During the afternoon sweetmeats and fruit were liberally distributed, and the men received, in addition, an extra supply of tobacco. Dancing to the strains of the band was kept up vigorously, a few of the convalescent male patients being selected to dance with the women. The number of patients who took part in the festivities was about 330, all of whom appeared to enjoy themselves thoroughly. They returned to the wards about half-past 5 o’clock, the enjoyment of the afternoon not having been marred by a single contretemps. The bright sunny weather which prevailed added not a little to the pleasure of all concerned. In connection with the Asylum, it may be noted that the contractor for the erection of the new central block appears to be making very good progress with his work, as the greater portion of the wall is completed ready for the roof.