CLUB ROOM FOR VISITING SEAMEN

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXVI, 15 February 1933, Page 4

CLUB ROOM FOR VISITING SEAMEN

TO BE STARTED AT PORT It has been apparent for several years that crews of visiting ships need a place in Nelson where they can spend their off-duty hours and write letters, play games, read, enjoy music. Now that Nelson is receiving mor e shipping than hitherto a definite move has been mad© to supply the wants of these men, who are, in almost every case, strangers and without friends. The Nelson Branch of Toe H lias at its disposal, a suitable place for meeting and entertaining the crews and a start will be made as soon as the first boat comes in. The All Saints Church authorities have generously offered the Mission Hall at the Port and Toe H members will be on duty every night a visiting ship is in. Provision will be made for pingpong, games, libary* writing facilities and plenty of music and community singing.

The organisers urgently require interesting reading matter, especially magazines as the men will not be in port long enough to read long books. Writing materials and cards are also required. It is interesting to note that after it was decided to start the scheme the organisers were informed that the Hall was built many years ago, in the time of Bishop Suter, who expressed the hope that the building would one be used for such a purpose. Now after so many years have passed the Bishop’s wish is to be fulfilled. The need for such a place has been pointed out every apple shipping season when visiting ships are in port and it is hoped that all those who stressed it in the past will give practical evidence of their support by gifts of books, stationery, games etc. When the crews visit the club room they will be provided with a light supper before leaving. Contributions of books etc., may be left with Mr C. Orton* “Mail” Office or Mr F. W. Huggins, Trafalgar street.