ASHEURTON.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume III, Issue 872, 25 November 1916, Page 15

ASHEURTON.

NOTES AND NEWS. From Our Own Correspondent. A gathering was held at Baring Square Methodist Church yesterday, When the old residents of the dis- ' trict, were asked to be present, to I meet the Rev. Val Trigge, missioner. iTlie church, which was crowded, l contained 34 men and women over 1 70 years of age, 12 over 80, and two lover Bfi years. The oldest resident of the district was Mrs Steele, who iis 87 years of age. The prize for 'being married the longest went to I her husband, the aged couple having been married 00 years. There were eight old people present who had been married 50 years. Mr Brooker won the prize for having resided the longest in the Dominion, having been born here, his age being 75 years. There were 10 persons who had resided 55 years in New Zealand, and five with a record of 05 years. Mr R. J. Hughes was awarded the prize for having resided longest in the district between Christchurch and Timarn, his term being 08 years. The prize-winners each received a handsome bouquet. Those present were entertained at afternoon tea by lady members of the church. On and after December 1 the afternoon train to Christchurch will start from Ashburton at 3.35 p.m. (live minutes earlier than at present), and from Cherlsey at 1.20 p.m. The afternoon train from Timaru to Ashburton will leave Winslow at 2.27 p.m., and Tinwald at 2.43 p.m. Mr J. A. Stephen, Methven, has received advice that his son, Private J. A. Stephen, who was slightly wounded, is progressing favourably.;