CHILDREN'S PARTY.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21101, 8 February 1932, Page 10

CHILDREN'S PARTY.

FUNCTION ON THE DIOMEDE. The Devonport naval base presented a gay scene on Saturday afternoon, when t children's party and At Home was given l>y the ship's company of H.M.S. Diomede. Undeterred by the overcast weather and choppy water of the harbour, a large number of children availed themselves of the opportunity of a trip to th» base in the smart naval launches. There were about 1000 visitors, including relatives of the men, and a number of children from local institutions. IT.M.S. Diomede had been transformed into a miniature fair, and clowns and South Sea islanders kept the children entertained throughout the afternoon. A roundabout had been erected on the quarter-deck, and there were also a chute, an aerial railway, an electric bath and miniature rifle range, while "Aunt Sally," the "hoop-la" stall, and a haka party provided additional gaiety. The men showed great enthusiasm in organising events for the children, and treasure hunts were conducted. while races were also held on the grass alongside the ship. Selections were rendered on board the cruiser by the band under the direction o£ u Bandmaster IL. Barnett. Afternoon tea was served in the Harbour Board's shed, after which the dance band of H.M.S. Diomede played the music for a tea dance, which was well patronised. Among tho officers present were Commander V. A. C. Crutchley, Engineer-Commatider E. V. Kembail, Paymaster-Comm&nder W. E. H. Joliy, Engineer-Lieutenant C. W. Jones, Lieutenant R. J. H. Ryan, and Lieutenant U. E. Bingham-Powell. Apologies were received from Rear-Admiral Geoffrey Blake, Mr. A. Harris, M.P. for Waitemata, who were unable to attend owing to previous engagements. The arrangements for the entertainment of the children were in the hands of Lieu-tenant-Commander A. W. Clarke, PettyOfficer C. Canty, Sergeant J. Bradley, Leading Stoker A. G. Kellian, Leading Signaller R. P. V. Hayter and Shipwright C. Cotton. Leading Stoker Milires and Stokers Balem, Paddon and Collins were the clowns, and Marine Miles was in charge of the donkey rides. Before leaving the ship each child was given » small present.