Coronation Celebrations In Palmerston North

Manawatu Times, Volume 62, Issue 81, 7 April 1937, Page 6

Coronation Celebrations In Palmerston North

COMMITTEE SET UP TO MAKE ARRANGEMENTS To consider making suitable arrangements in connection with tho holding of the Coronation celebrations in Palmerston North, a public meeting was held in iho Council Chambers last nignt. The Mayor (Mr. A. E. Mansford) presided over an attendance of about 40. The Mayor stated that he had hoped to have some particulars from tho Government to place before the meeting, but presumably the Government- had been delayed because of the paralysis epidemic. He understood that it was the desire of the Government that children should not take too prominent a part in the celebrations, and that ceremonies should be arranged for them in tho schools. He had in mind a procession in. the morning, with a suitable ceremony in the Square, including the unfurling of the flag and speeches. The City Council would look after tho electrical decorations and bunting. It had been suggested that a ball should be held in the ovening, and at its conclusion the broadcast from England should be relayed to the Opera House or some other public place. However, this matter, and others, could be left to a committee.

Mr. J. A. Nash suggested that a fireworks display could be considered by the committee; also a gathering of old people at tho Showgrounds in the afternoon.

The Government, stated the Mayor, did not want to have children congregating in big numbers at present; so that might rule out a fireworks display. In regard to a gathering of old people, it should not be lost sight of that the city would be celebrating iis jubilee in November.

Rev. F. S. Ramson said the Ministers' Association contemplated holding a church service, for which the use o e All Saints’ was available. This service could be held prior to the public ser-

On the motion of Mr. Nash, seconded by Mr. J. H. Runnicles, it was decided to set op a committee and to ask the City Council to appoint representatives to co-operate with it. The following committee was set up, with power to add: Captain A. Bongard, Rev. F. S. Ramson, Messrs. J. H. Runnicles, E. Barv, W. Kells, W. H. Brown, V. Nicholson, M. Scott, H. E. Kissling, J. Murray, L. G. Callis, J. E. H. Mewett, A. J. Phillipps, J. A. Nash. A. J. Graham and W. H. Milverton.

After discussion, it was decided to hold a Coronation ball. Mr. J. Batchelar announced that the A. and P. Association would be prepared to grant the use of its halls for the purpose.

Provided conditions have returned to normal, the committee was recommended to consider holding a fireworks display.