ST. CLAIR CARNIVAL.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 20643, 15 February 1929, Page 3

ST. CLAIR CARNIVAL.

ROUGH WEATHER EXPERIENCED. The weather was not at all propitious last night for the carnival at St. Clair, but there was a large crowd present despite this, and it is satisfying to record that really excellent business was done in every quarter. One piece of ill-fortune has been suffered, and that is attributable to the high wind of yesterday, which so damaged the large marquee that was being used as a cabaret as to make it necessary for it to be taken down. The canvas was literally torn to ribbons in the early stages of the evening. However, indoor accommodation was obtained, and a merry crowd of dancers was on the floor throughout the evening. This section of the carnival was probably the most favoured last night, everyone wishing to be inside. At an early hour the “ Spirit of Carnival ” herself arrived in her carriage drawn by a pair of Messrs Thomson’s ponies, and from then on she reigned supremo. Professor Morris was to have performed his tight-ropo feat last night, but, though he was perfectly willing to do so, the Carnival Committee was of the opinion that it would not bo safe in such rough conditions, and it was postponed until to-night, when the professor will wheel his niece across the rope in a wheelbarrow. There was a heavy sea running, and spray was frequently thrown up on the esplanade, but this did not seem to damp the ardour of anyone, and the night must be regarded ns decidedly successful. A further attraction was the presence of a lightning sketch artist, who amused numbers of people with his skilful work. Among those who are helping to make the effort a success are the St. Clair Lawn Tennis Club, which has taken over the sale of the badges, the St. Clair Womens Club, which provided all the sweets, the St. Clair Surf Club, which is in charge of the games, and Mr E. C. Armitago, who acted as quartermaster. The carnival will bo continued to-night.