TOURING WARSHIPS.

Taranaki Daily News, 24 December 1923, Page 5

TOURING WARSHIPS.

ARRIVAL AT CAPETOWN. GREAT ENTHUSIASM. S. AFRICAN AIR RECORD. By Telegraph—Press Assn.—Copyright. Received Dec. 23, 5.5 p.m. Capetown, Dec. 22. The British Empire Squadron arrived early this morning in adverse weather conditions, a sudden thunderstorm coming on with a heavy sea and mist. A great crowd awaited the arrival of the ships in the drizzling rain. The light cruisers, led by the Hood and the Repulse, presented an inspiring sight as their ghostly forms issued out of the mist, passed Robben Island, and headed into the harbour. The citizens were greatly disappointed owing to Table Mountain being shrouded in mist. The city was beflagged, and troons lined the streets for the reception. After the visit to Sir Rose Innes (actingGovernor) the guests proceeded to the City Hall, where there was a notable gathering of Parliamentarians and other leading men. The Mayor (Mr. Verster). officially welcomed the visitors, in a speech paying a tribute to the navy’s activities during the war. Mr. Malam added a welcome on behalf of the Government, and Admiral Field suitably replied. The proceedings were marked by much enthusiasm on the part of the citizens. The flight of five aeroplanes from Pretoria to Capetown to meet the fleet constitutes a South African air record. They covered over a thousand miles in eleven hours. The fog prevented them flying out to sea to meet the ships.