THE MAYORALTY

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXXXI, Issue 18972, 25 March 1924, Page 4

THE MAYORALTY

MB. HOPE GIBBONS BETVBNED. MAJOBITY OF 3571. e The Mayoral election was hold yes» terday, with, the result that Mr. Hope Gibbons was returned with the overwhelming majority of 2571 votes. The analysis of the voting was:

The polling was heavy, and the supporters of both candidates worked hard throughout the day.

The returning officer, Mr. G. Murcfc, announced the results from the balcony of the Opera House shortly before 8 p.m.

In thanking the electors, Mr. Hope Gibbons said it was one of the proudest moments of his life. He anticipated a win for the reason that he thought it necessary for Wanganui t* have a change. Wanganui had been an unhappy town for the past five years, and it was absolutely necessary to have some change to make it a happier and better family. He'considered that the overwhelming majority was an endorsement of the policy that he had put forward, and an endorsement of his policy in regard to the steam plant. His idea in regard to the staff was to try and keep them, get the best out of them, and give them a fair deal. In the past, as they knew, he had studied town-planning, and he looked forward to seeing one of the finest cities in New Zealand. Already Wanganui had everything in its favour, and it remained with the people to bring it about. With new blood coming in and a Greater Wanganui they should he able to bring it about. In conclusion Mr. Gibbons said that the fight had been clean and pleasant. He thanked all who had voted for him and the ladies who had worked so hard for his return. ~

Mr. J. .C. Richardson commented upon the heavy vote recorded against him, and said that he did not begrudge Mr. Gibbons his success. The fight had been clean, and he, congratulated him on a meritorious win. When ho saw the big organisation he knew he had no hope, but he plugged away anU did his best, lit was an endorsement of the policy that the people wanted a change, and he bowed to their decision. He would still remain on the Council, and would be prepared to assist Mr. Gibbons if his policy was for the general good of Wanganui. Ho hoped that Mr. Gibbons would prove that the people’s confidence in him was not misplaced. He realised that the decision against him was not a personal one, and he would accept it with good grace. Both wore accorded three cheers. A handsome bouquet was presented to Mrs. Gibbons by the Ratepayers’ Association, and as the Mayoress-elect stepped forward she also was the recipient of cheers.

Opera House .. Gibbons. Eichardson .. 1674 223 Keith Street .. .. 455 109 Ara mo ho .. .. .. 315 64 Wanganui East St. John’s .... .. 377 57 .. 137 27 Durie Hill .. .. 97 4 Total .. .. 484