Valedictory

Manawatu Times, Volume LIX, Issue 7493, 18 June 1934, Page 8

Valedictory

MB M. STRANGE FABEWELLED BY CLUBMATES Mr M. J. Strange, who is shortly departing to take up tho position of town clerk to tho To Kuiti Borough Council', was tendered a valedictory dinner by tho members of tho Kia Toa Football Club on Saturday ovening. Mr H. E. Crawford presided and amongst those present was tho president of the Manawatu Amateur Athletic SubSCentro (Mr E. J. Harding, of Tapatawa, Woodville). Proposing tho toast of the guest of honour, tho chairman made eulogistic reference to Mr Strange’s many sterling qualities, which had made him ono of tho most popular club members and a player of outstanding merit in tho district. His personality had placed Mm high in the esteem of club members, and although they regretted his departuro all would join heartily in congratulating him on his promotion. Not only was the club losing a member who had rendered tho longest period of active servico to it, added tho speaker, but Rugby patrons would miss an outstanding player who, by reason of his remarkable speed, had provided many mcmorablo thrills to the spectators. As a memento of tho esteem in which Mr and Mrs Strange were held by tho club members, Mr Strange was presented with a beautiful carved brass ornament of Chinese pattern. Mr E. J. Harding then took tho opportunity of paying a similar tributo to Mr Strange’s career and work in the athletic world. Mr Strange was probably wider known in tho sphere of athletics tftan in football, and ho had many fine performances to his credit as a sprinter, several of which had been registered in international company. On behalf of the subcentro Mr Harding presented Mr Strange with a very fine crystal salad bowl. Further tributes were added by athlotic and football friends present, and the tonst of tho guest of tho ovening was then enthusiastically honoured by all' present. Mr Strange suitably replied, stating that ho felt keenly tho severing of many friendships which had meant much to him in his association with the Eugby and athletic sports, and he trusted that all his friends who had occasion to visit To Kuiti in the future would give his wife and himself an opportunity of renewing that contact. A very enjoyable social hour was then spent and tho gathering concluded with the singing of “AuldLang Syne.”