PATRIOTIC FETE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 11217, 24 October 1914, Page 10

PATRIOTIC FETE.

AT BELFAST TO-DAY.

All Belfast was en fete to-day. At two o'clock crowds of merry people lined the approaches to Sheldon Park awaiting the procession. Presently it came. Most of the local firms were represented, and there were numerous private traps and motors, a mock battery. a brace of trotters, and every conceivable kind of vehicle, including ;i. bullock waggon crowded with old settlers.

The Mayor of Christcluirch, Mr H. Holland, declared the fefco open. He impressed upon the people the necessity for supporting the good objects of the fete, which was intended to make provision for the wives and families of the men who have gone to the front, and urged them to spend freely. The people of Belfast seemed to have combined to make their Patriotic Fete a success, and they cannot help being pleased with the result of their labours. The afternoon passed pleasantly away with all sorts of sports and amuse-' mcnts.

The proceedings were opened by a burlesque football match, wh'ich provided amusement for a Jargs section of the crowd. The park Itself was covered with _ tents and booths, and busy little girls hovered here and there selling buttonholes and badges. One corner of the ground, was occupied by the stock, which provided the material for numerous guessing competitions. A bullock waggon, as a relic of earlier times, was available for "joy rides" during the afternoon, and it was liberally patronised by visitors.

An obstacle race held during the afternoon resulted as follows:—A Clark 1, C. Clark 2.