CHRISTMAS TREE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17230, 22 December 1923, Page 2

CHRISTMAS TREE.

PARTY AT RIDGLEY HALL. Ridgeiy Hall, Armagh Street, waa a scene of much gaiety last night, when the Rixlgely Lodge held their annual Christinas tree party for the members’ children. At 7 o’clock the doors wore open and about 200 children with their parents and friends were admit-r ted into the hall, which was artistically decorated with coloured lights, streamers and festoons of evergreen. On the 6tage was a huce Christmas tree literally covered with toys o£ all descriptions, balloons and coloured lights, which looked very effective. The party was informed that in all s%">!fcabi&ity Father Christmas would arrive at 8 o’clock, and until that time they were kept amused by games, songs, recitations and music by Mr C. Wells’s orchestra which was much appreciated. At 8 o’clock sharp, far in the distance could be heard the bag pipes and before long the Caledonian Pipe Band in full uniform dress arrived at the hall, escorting Father Christmas, who was conveyed, with his luggage, in a motor-car. This was a great surprise to all present, young and old, and hearty cheers were given first to Father Christmas and then to the band. Father Christmas then got to work and cave each child a very valuable present. Each child also received a bag of sweets, a balloofi, soft drink and ice creams to their heart’s content. Then the parents came in for some cool refreshments. A very pleasant evening ended with the singing of “ A.uld Lang Syne.’* The whole function went off without a hitch, and those of the committee and their wifes are to be congratulated at the very satisfactory arrangements made, especially when it'is taken into consideration that everything is given to the kiddies absolutelv free and that the members are not asked to subscribe towards the cost.