BETTER PLAYING FIELDS

Taranaki Daily News, 23 June 1927, Page 9

BETTER PLAYING FIELDS

WEST END SCHOOL TO BENEFIT QUEEN CARNIVAL TO BE HELD. At an enthusiastic meeting of about 50 householders held in the West End School gymnasium last night, matters concerning the improvement of the playing area at the school were discussed, and it was finally decided to hold a queen carnival to raise funds. In the absence of the chairman (Mr. J. A. Hawker, Mr. C. Berg, deputy-chairman, presided and had with him Messrs. H. J. Abram (secretary) and J. H. Thomas (headmaster). The chairman said he was agreeably surprised to see such a large attendance. All probably knew the reason of the meeting, and he hoped all would give their support. Mr. Thomas said the newly erected school buildings were fine, but as far as playing areas were concerned, they were really non-existent. Sports played a large part in school "work, and built up the physical side of a child. School traditions were built up from sport, and the West End School had always been at a disadvantage with regard to playing areas. At present the boys had to use the Tukapa ground, nearly a mile away, for football, while only a small basket ball ground was provided for the girls. Modern equipment, was also essential; the library needed continual additions and many other minoj things were required. Altogether a sum, in the vicinity of £6OO to £7OO was required, and this could only be obtained with the co-opcration of the parents. It was too big a job for the school. Ho then suggested certain means of raising funds, and asked for ooinions from those present. After several ideas had been discussed it was finally decided to hold a queen carnival. The question of the selection of the candidates was left in the hands of the teachers, who would get the children to vote. Four wards were agreed upon over which one convenor would preside, and Mesdames Hawker, Carter and Charters and Miss Mynott were elected to fill the positions.