A CHRISTMAS FEAST.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 11578, 23 December 1915, Page 6

A CHRISTMAS FEAST.

, * FOR SOLDIERS' WIVES AND I CHILDREN. h ft was a thought of the members of tho Citizens' Defence Corps and of the women's branch of the New Zealand National Reserve, to provide today a festival for the wives and cliil-i dren of soldiers at the front and for the widows .and children of those who have 1 alien, many of whom might other- , . wise have had a very dismal Christmas. The men who are fighting our battles will appreciate the kindly action ..of the O.D.C u and it will hearten them for the fight to know that their dependents are not altogether forgotten. The festival was held to-dav on the Christ's College grounds, which were kindly lent by the college authorities. In. the gymnasium, there was the Christinas tree hung with good things for the children. Tho tree stands m the centre of the gymnasium, which, is pret- ( tily hung with flags. At the far end ■ ,o£ the■ college football ground a large ' marquee, in which; tea wa.s provided, had been pitched.' A portion of the football ground was marked off as a course, .-where the returned men proved that their experiences on Gallipoii have not altogether destroyed their athletic form. During the afternoon children's races were held, under the charge of Messrs \V. .Johnson and A. ('. Maxlvell The Tramway Band kindly offered their services gratis and plaved selections during the afternoon. The various officials were:—Tea, Mr Wjiliam "Wood; Soldiers' races. Mr N. Wood>: Christmas Tree, Alesd nines Boyle, Rhodes, Turnbull and a "Father Christmas." The first event of the day was the ■rtrriival of a .squad of returned men, who marched from the C.D.C. Rooms in Hereford Street, headed bv Piper f'raser. By three o clock a fairly crowd had assembled. Amongst those present/were his Worship the Miyor LM'r Holland), Colonel Chaffev, O.C. D and Colonel A. E. Loach. Children's races were held a few minutes after three, and at 3.30 tea was served. Soldiers' races were then held, and caused considerable amusement amongst the spectators. " To-night a smoke concert will be held, and all returned soldiers are requested to attend.