ASHBTIRTON.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 7418, 2 June 1902, Page 3

ASHBTIRTON.

On the news of the declaration of peace reaching Ashbiirton the engine •whistles were kept going and bells were rung, flags hoisted, schools dismissed^ and shops closed, and the whole population gave vent to their feeling in some tangible manner. The county band paraded the streets, and a large crowd collected in front of the Borough Council Chambers, where the Mayor, read a telegram from Sir Joseph Ward stating that peace had been declared, arid made a few remarks about the news. The Doxology was then sung, a prayer was offered and '"God Save the King" was sung. The proceedings terminated with three cheers for the King. The city and suburban schools have been granted a holiday for the day. Crowdß walked the streets and flocked; together in the Square all day. The City Council will hold its meeting as usual to-night, and will commence the proceedings by passing a congratulatory motion on the declaration of peace. The " Long Tom " from Messrs Lucas Bros' . foundry fired off several loud salutes in Cathedral Square, to the d«light of all small boys and the consternation of several ladies. . I A rather fine sight was afforded; by a corps of telegraph 'boys, who formed a procession on their bicycleSj linked arm to arm. •To-morrow evening, at nine o'clock, at the Colosseum Skating Rink Mr W. W. Collins will give a patriotic address in commemoration of peace. All returned troopers in uniform are invited to be present to receive the thanks of Canterbury for their service in South Africa.