Woodville Celebrates Victory

Manawatu Times, Volume 70, Issue 110, 11 May 1945, Page 6

Woodville Celebrates Victory

VE Day in Woodville was celebrated in a -wholehearted manner. A few moments after the announcement from London at 1 a.in. the local fire alarm siren shrilled out, almost drowning the deeper tones of the bells and whistles. The fog which was even then across the countryside, continued to envelop the landscape till a few minutes before the assembled crowd heard tho Mayor (Mr. Chas. Forbes) announce the proclamation at 1.30 p.m. Just at that moment bright sunshine blazed over tho assembled people. Prior to the official announcement a parade consisting of the United Band and companies of the R.S.A. and Homeservicemen, under Mr. J. Charles, the A. under Lieut. Irwin, the G.L.B. under Capt. Powell and Lieut. L. Cot ter and Boy Scouts under Scoutmaster B. Goodman, marched to the Post Office steps jvhere a large number of school children, many in fancy dress and all carrying flags, were assembled with Messrs Henderson and Hills. “On this memorable occasion I feel that words of mine are inadequate,” said the Mayor (Mr. C. Forbes). “When we think of the great men who have led and directed our victorious armies in this world’s conflict I would go as far as to aay that there is no human voice capable of putting into words what it means to the nations of the world. It is but natural that our minds will turn to our New Zealand boys. They have given this little country a record of undying fame. May we be worthy of what they have done. Our New Zealand men have offered themselves in their thousands to their everlasting credit and glory. They haven ill great numbers made the supreme sacrifice and we who are present here to-daj pay our humble tribute of gratitude and homage to them. To their relatives wo offer our heartfelt sympathy.” At the conclusion of Mr. Forbes’ address the band played, the American

National Anthem and the gathering sang New Zealand’s National Anthem, prior (to marching via Vogel Street, McLean Street and Pollen Street to the Drill Hall where the Thanksgiving Service was held. The big hall was packed and many had to remain outside the building. The band, under Mr. D. S. Iveay, led the singing. On the dais were the Mayor (Mr. Forbes), Mr. Morgan and Mr. J. N. Graham (representing the County), the Rev. Sltey, Rev. A. R. Penn and Captain Home (S.A.). Apologies were received from the chairman of the County, Mr. N. O. Grainger, who has been in hospital and from Rev. Martin, who was conducting the Thanksgiving Service at Kiritaki. Rev. Penn conducted the religious ceremony with Captain Home giving a Bible reading from Isiah 25 and also Psalm 150 and a short prayei\ Rev. Skey gave the address of thankfulness quoting “Not unto us, not unto us, but unto Thy name be the glory.” In tho evening happy crowds gathered at the Institiito Hall and the Drill Hall for dancing and amusement. Mrs. J. McCormick was in charge at the W.I. Hall where items were interspersed with old time dancing. Musicians for the dancing were Mesdames R. Jones and Leckie and Messrs Parker (Papatawa), A. Linton, Mason (ukelele), Mr. P. Harris (concertina). Items consisted of songs by Miss Flynn (Kumeroa) and Mrs. H. McNicol, the audience joining heartily in the choruses. The comedy “Musical Influenza” was staged, those taking part being Mrs. R. Jones, Mrs. W. Galbraith, Mrs. H. McNicol, Mrs. D. 8. Keay and Mrs. Robotham. Mrs. J. McCormick was at the piano. Miss Joyco Ivrivan gave elocutionary items and there was also an Irish playette by Mrs. 11. McNicol and Miss Flynn. At tho Drill Hall younger folk were in the majority, dancing to modern music as rendered by an orchestra. Supper was served iu the supper room of thto Institute Hall which was iu darkness long before the younger folk finished their revelry in the Drill Hall. Yesterday morning Thanksgiving Services were held at Holy Trinity Church and St. Columbkilles. In the afternoon the Amateur Athletic and Cycling Club held a sports meeting mainly for children, at the Recreation Grounds. Good competition resulted. The men’s sack race added a distinct note of humour to the occasion. It was mentioned that contributions to the Patriotic Funds as a result of the local celebrations amount to nearly £loo#