Croquet Players Farewell Mrs. Robertson

Manawatu Times, Volume 67, Issue 276, 21 November 1942, Page 2

Croquet Players Farewell Mrs. Robertson

Croquet players in the Manawatu Association yesterday regretfully farewelled Mrs. W. J. Robertson, retiring president and her daughter, Miss Ethel Robertson, on the eve of their departure for Auck- * land. Close on fifty members assembled i in the lounge at the P.D.C., where they were welcomed by the new president, Mrs. R. McMurray, who also presented Mrs. Robertson and her daughter with shoulder syrays which had been made by Mrs. W. M. Tapp. Mrs. S. J. Parkes (Association secretary) presented Mrs. McMurray with flowers, a similar compliment being paid Mrs. Parkes by Mrs. L. Wood. There was much chatter over the tea cups, and following afternoon tea, Mrs. Parkes read apologies from some of the country clubs and members unable to attend and the accompanying good wishes which were conveyed to the departing guests. Mrs. McMurray, who presided over the gathering, said it was with deep regret they were parting with Mrs. Robertson. She had filled the position of president of the Association for a number of years so capably it had always been a pleasure to work with her. Her sound knowledge of the game had been of inestimable value in the working ! of an Association in which there were 17 clubs with tournaments, inter-club matches, etc., and their attendant difficulties. The manner in which Mrs. Robertson had carried out the duties pertaining to this office and other offices such as referee had earned for her the confidence and admiration of everyone. Palmerston North and district would be the poorer for her departure. Mr. Robertson had also been a leading player and would be missed in many circles as would Miss Robertson. Mrs. B. Spence (Feilding), a vice-president, added her tribute and good wishes, speaking also on behalf of Feilding and Oroua clubs. Mrs. E. Baxter, another vice-president, spoke as one of the oldest members of the Association and Manawatu Club of their pride in Mrs. Robertson’s achievements, ; expressing the hope that she would long ibe spared to make tens, twelves and double peels. Good wishes were also extended by Mrs. L. Wood (Northern), Mrs. Lyall (Takaro) and Mrs. Parkes, who expressed appreciation of her association with Mrs. Robertson, who could always be relied upon for a just ruling and genial reply. Mrs. McMurray asked Mrs. Robertson's acceptaxice of a handbag which carried affectionate esteem and every good wish lor happiness in her new home. Mrs. | Robertson, who was accorded musical I honours and cheers, voiced her thanks for the gift, for the kindly remarks, and for the opportunity of saying goodbye to so. many of her old friends. Opportunity was also taken by Mesdames Parkes and Robertson to welcome Mrs. McMurray to her new office, and I Mrs. Spence thanked her for presiding. I 1 Manawatu Club, of which Mrs. Robertson has been a member for 20 years, held their own special gathering on Wednesday last. Friendly games were played and after afternoon tea, which was pro- | vided by members, Mrs. E. M. Snelling, ' club-captain, spoke of the loss to the club by the departure of such a valued mem- ! ber as Mrs. Robertson, asking her ac- | ceptance of a fruit bowl. A gift was also made to Miss the recipients making suitable reply.