H.M.S. VERONICA.

Taranaki Daily News, 20 March 1924, Page 4

H.M.S. VERONICA.

VISIT BY 2500 CHILDREN.

SPECIAL TRAM SERVICE. COUNTRY SCHOLARS TO-MORROW. Yesterday was children’s day as far as H.M.S. Veronica, now at the port of New Plymouth, was concerned, when all the scholars of the schools of New Plymouth were shown over the vessel. The visits of the various schools were worked on a time-table and a special tram service was arranged to convey the young visitors to and from the port. In all, about 2500 children visited the Veronica during the afternoon. The organisation for dealing with such big crowds was splendid, especially the special tram service. Cars crowded upon each other, all being packed with enthusiastic children, anxious to inspect the inner workings of a warship. A special car, with children from Westbwn and Frankley Road, made the through trip to the Breakwater, thus avoiding confusion through transferring the young passengers at the town junction. The approximate numbers of children from the various schools to make the trip were:—Fitzroy 300, Girls’ High School 220, Central 600, Boys’ High School 400, Vogeltown 100, Frankley Road and Westown 80, West End 400, Moturoa 150, Technical College 200. In the brief time at their disposal, the crew took a delight in showing the children into every nook and cranny of the vessel and in explaining the use of every part of her shining and well kept equipment.

To allow the country children to visit the Veronica, which is the first warship to berth at Ne\v Plymouth, the Taranaki Education Board has given permission to close the schools to-morrow. The vessel will be open to these children from two until six o’clock. Commander Cardwell returned the call made on his arrival by the Mayor (Mr. F. E. Wilson), and the chairman of the Harbour Board (Mr. C. E. Bellringer), at 10.30 yesterday morning. Officers and men are being privately entertained during their visit.