AIRMEN AS HOSTS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 79, 10 January 1944, Page 4

AIRMEN AS HOSTS

FIGHTING SERVICES CLUB WEEK-END ACTIVITIES The usual order of things was re versed at the Fighting Services Cluk at the week-end, when instead of the hostesses waiting upon and entertaining their servicemen guests, the men played the parts ol cooks, waiters, dishwashers and entertainers and the club hostesses were their guests. A group of sixteen airmen organised this very popular innovation. On Saturday they prepared, cooked and served the tea themselves for about 100 people. Not to be outdone by the Club hostesses who each wear a badge with their name on, the boys made their own badges and the girls, who by special request all attended the club for tea, had the privilege of being waited upon by such distinguished person* ages as “Uncle Alf.” “The General.” “Slim Dick,” “Wee Reggie,” “Adam,” I ‘Jimmy” and company. In the evening the “boys” organised the usual Saturday night dance and provided prizes for the novelty numbers. Mrs H. McConchie gave excellent service at the piano, and “The General” made a very efficient and popular Master of Ceremonies. The evening passed gaily for the large numbers who attended the dance. On Sunday lunch was served to 30 men of the forces and over 100 attended the club for tea. SUNDAY CONCERT PARTY A concert party on Sunday evening was another item arranged by the volunteer Air Force helpers. The club room was crowded and the concert was heartily enjoyed by everyone. Community singing, accompanied by piano and saxophone, vocal items and an amusing sketch were included in the programme. After the concert “Uncle Alf”. the organiser of the week-end activities, received a very hearty vote of thanks from the Club members and w*as accorded musical honours. In reply he said that the idea had been prompted by a desire on behalf of the boys who visited the Club to express in a practical way their appreciation of the hospitality they had received. Another thoughtful gesture on the part of the boys was to send a beautiful bouquet of flowers to Mrs E. R Neale, the president of the Fighting Services Club, who, through illness, was unable to be present to enjoy and take part in the fun at the weekend. Gifts of food received at the weekend included pies and buns from the Vienna Cake Shop, and cake, beans and sacks of neas from other donors.