Coming-of-age Party

Manawatu Times, Volume 66, Issue 209, 3 September 1941, Page 3

Coming-of-age Party

Of considerable interest to amateur cyclists and footballers was the coming-of-age party held in honour of Arthur (Joe) Allen, eldest son of Air. and Airs. A. H. Allen, of Denbigh Street, Feilding, on Saturday evening in the Parish Hall. The function, which took the form of a social aud dance was arranged by his parents and friends and there were some 80 guests present. Messrs. Ray Barnett and George Wilkinson (uncle) acted as Masters of Ceremony and the latter presented the guest of honour with a traditional key. A sumptuous' supper was partaken of and pride of place on the festive board was held by a huge birthday cako appropriately decorated with 2.1 candles. Many congratulatory telegrams were read by the toastmaster (Mr. Wilkinson) and speeches were made by Messrs. D. Thompson (Feilding Football Club), R. Barnett (Athletic and Cycling Club) and R. Wealleans (captain of the Feilding Football Club). Musical honours were accorded the guest of honour. For the dancing, a professional orchestra was engaged. Air. Allen was the recipient of numerous presents and during the evening au opiDortunity was taken to make a presentation to Ordinary Seaman Gordon Allen (brother) by the third grade players of the Feilding Football Club. Among the relatives present at the function were Airs. W. Wilkinson, sen. (grandmother), Air. and Airs. C. Wilkinson, Air. and Mrs. K. Easton (Wellington), Aliss M. Lawson (Patca), Alias AI. McFarland (Wanganui) and Air. G. Beadle also ot' Wanganui, Aliss C. Palmer, of Hamilton.

The handsome cake was made by Airs. W. Swan and decorated by Airs. George Wilkinson. Air. Arthur Allen lias contributed much to the success of the local cycling club and in other sports of an athletic nature he has given his support. He has enlisted for the R.N.R.A.F., while his younger brothers, Jack and GordoD, arc in the Royal Navy.