MR. P. MUNRO HONOURED

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 87, Issue 272, 17 November 1943, Page 4

MR. P. MUNRO HONOURED

COMPLIMENTARY LUNCHEON SERVICES ON EDUC ATION BOARD Acknowledgment of the services of Mr. P. Munro (Utikul as deputy chairman of the Wanganui Education Board in the past 111 years was made at a complimentry luncheon, given by board members yesterday, at Foster s Hotel. Mr. Munro has retired from the board and opportunity was taken to make him a presentation of a silver shaving set. The chairman of the board, Mr. E. F. Hemingway, said that they had met to do honour to Mr. Munro, an esteemed member of the board for many years. Coming of pioneer stock Mr. Munro had experienced all the hardships associated with pioneering. When inc mounted rifle troops were formed he showed his enthusiasm by riding 27 miles to parades and 27 miles back on an unmctalled road. As a sportsman Mr. Munro was an excellent rifle shot and had won many prizes. He was also keen on cricket and fishing.

Mr. Hemingway said both Mr. and Mrs. Munro were noted lor their hospitality. In regard to Mr. Munro's work on the Education Board Mr. Munro had been a tower of strength to him. No job was too great and none too small for him to handle. He was ever willing to give of his best. The speaker related one incident when he had asked Mr. Munro to undertake a task that was particularly difficult and which one could not have blamed him if he had asked to be ■excused. He never hesitated for a moment and carried out the task successfully. His work on the -board on behalf not only of the children in his ward but of all those in the board's area, spoke for itself. This work at times entailed long journeys into the oackblocks but these were always cheerfully and ungrudgingly undertaken to the benefit of the children and settlers alike. Mr. Hemingway said it was with regret that they parted with the services of Mr. Munro, and he wished him and Mrs. Munro every success for the future.

Speaking for the inspectorate, the senior inspector, Mr. B. N. T. Blake, extolled the services ot Mr. Munro and expressed appreciation of his services to the cause of education.

His remarks were supported by the secretary, Mr. G. N. Boulton, who said Mr. Munro always brought to his task sound reasoning and aole judgment.

Mr. Munro, in reply, thanked the speakers for their gift and expressions of goodwill. He had enjoyed his association with the Wanganui Education Board, which, he said, was one of the best in New Zealand. It had excellent officers and was noted for its sound and progressive administration. He thanked Mr. Hemingway, members and staff for the co-operation given him at all times.