VOLUNTEER BALL TO RETURNED TROOPERS.

West Coast Times, Issue 12346, 30 October 1902, Page 3

VOLUNTEER BALL TO RETURNED TROOPERS.

The ball given by the First Westland Rifles in the Drill Shed in honour of the returned troopers last evening was an event which will' be held in pleasant remembrance for a long ■ time by those who were present. <■• From the preparations which it was known were in progress tbe public were£led to expect a very pleasant gathering but the event exceeded all expectations. The decora* tions by the Ladies Committee were most elabdrate and it is safe to say the "Drill Shed which was the ball room has seldom looked prettier. As befi tttd the occasion a brilliant show of bunting was the chief element in the decorations, the effect being •heightened by an exceedingly tasteful display of evergreens. The Town Hall which served as the supper room looked very attractive also, and for the whole of the decorativo display, the itdies who interested themselves deserve the greatest credit.

There was a large attendance, visitors being present from Greymouth, Kumara, and the surrounding districts. Tbe was also a large muster of the guests o£ the evening^ the returned troopers; and of the First West land Rifles, Captain Maefarlane, Lieuts M'Gregor and Johnstone, and' Sergt-Major Miller being active in seeing to the enjoyment of , all. The Khaki -uniforms of the troopers and volunteers made an affoetire contrast to the mufti of the civilians,- tad the scene at the dance during any part of the evening was very gad and inspiriting. Tbe music was supplied by Misa Heron (piano) and Messrs Hansen (Cornet) and Gibbons flute, and ifc was unexceptionable as usual. Mr Breeze made a most capable and efficient M.C, Altogether the ball Was a brilliant success and the committee with their energetic . secretaries, Lieut M'Gregor and Sergt Schullz may be congratulated on their receiption.of the returned troopers.