VALEDICTORY

Stratford Evening Post, Issue 75, 1 August 1929, Page 5

VALEDICTORY

MR. JAMES HAMPSON. Members of the Celtic Football Club met last night at the residence of Mr. James Hampson, who has been closely associated with the club since its inception, / for the purpose of bidding him farewell in view of his early departure from Stratford. Mr. W. Tunbridge, president of the club, said Mr, Hampson had been one of the prime movers in the club, ever since the first junior team was fust entered in the competitions five years ago. He had done yoemam service as coach and selector, and had materially helped as a playing member for some time. He had also been successful as club captain aiid a general official of the club. Mr. Haanpson had always had the welfare of the club at his heart," and had looked after its interests, often at the expense of his private business. Both as a player and official he had worked hard, and the success of the club was largely due to his generous efforts on its behalf. Ho had been one of the chief workers in the movement to start a senior team, and had had the honour on one occasion, of playing in a Taranaki team. Personally, the speaker was greatly indebted to Mr. Hampson for help freely given, and ho- could testify that on all possible occasions Mr-. Hampson had done his very best for the club, doing what he did purely for the love of the sport. Those who had played against Mr. Hanipson in the field had only good to say of him. On behalf of members of the club,' Mr. Tunbridge then presented Mr. Hampson with a gold wristlet watch. Mr. W. S. Clark.said ho had always found .Air. Hampson a white man, ami lip wished him, "Mrs. Hampso and family ovcry possible success in their now home. In the course of his remarks Mr. L. P. Coley mentioned Mr. Hampson's work in getting the Celtic Cricket Club formed. Speeches were also made by Messrs. O'Keefe (team captain) and J. P. B.yan. Mr. Hampson suitably replied and a very pleasant gathering concluded with the singing of 'Auld Lang Syne.'