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Star (Christchurch), Issue 11732, 23 June 1916, Page 5

WELCOME HOME.

RETURNED LYTTELTON MEN ENTERTAINED.

In tho Excelsior Hall, Lyttelton, last night a social gathering to returned soldiers was tendered by the Lyttelton Citizens' Coastal Defence Corps. There was a largo attendance, among the guests being Seaman-Gunner Wilkinson (H.M.S. Philomel), Corporal W. Roberts and Privates S. Campbell, L. F. Buxton. C. Saunders and H. Cowlin. The Mayor (Mr W. Radcliffe), the Rev E. E. Chambers, Major J. P. E. Vealo, No. 4 Company New Zealand Garrison Artillery Territorials, Dr J. A. Newell and Lieutenant J. Anderson, No. 13 Company Senior Cadets, were also present>>JMi' J. T. Brice, officer commanding the corps, presided. Tho Mayor, in proposing the toast of " Our Roturned Soldiers," said he had great pleasure in extending a hearty welcome to the returned men. They' had douo their bit faithfully and" well. Ho was optimistic of the future welfare of the British Empire and that of the Allies. The coming months would bring forth great events. He would do his utmost for the welfare of the men when they returned to the port, and he could assure them also that the local C.D.C. would hot be found wanting. Corporal W. Roberts, in reply, said far as he was personally concerned he was sorry that the opportunity had n6t been given him to complete tho task ho had ' originally set out to do. However, he had done his best.

Gunner Wilkinson, who appeared in naval uniform, met with a hearty reception. Ho rClatedi'many interesting experiences which lad befallen him since he left Lyttelton for Asiatic shores. Privates Campbell.Cowlm, Saunders and Buxton also replied A number of other toasts were honoured, and an excellent murical programme contributed in no small measure towards a very enjoyable even-