VALEDICTORY

Waipukurau Press, Volume XXVIII, Issue 98, 20 April 1933, Page 5

VALEDICTORY

MR. AND MRS. E. H. LEIGH PRESENTATION FR’OM FRIENDS A large gathering assembled at St. Mary’s Hall last evening to farewell Mr. and Mrs. E. H. Leigh and family who are leaving at the end of next week for Whangarei. During their residence in Waipukurau, over a period of 16 years, Mr. and Mrs. Leigh have been very prominent in the work of St. Mary’s parish and the function last evening was arranged in order that tangible tokens could be shown of the high esteem in which they are held. During the evening the Rev. Canon E. D. Rice made a presentation to Mr. and Mrs. E. H. Leigh, of a beautiful silver teapot and hot water jug. Mr. Rice expressed the view that the gathering was of a sad nature as the church was losing two very keen and enthusiastic workers who bad been of great help to the parish and in fact great helpers in all worth while

movements in Waipukurau. In announcing their departure for Whangarei he said that St. Mary's loss would be Whangarei’s gain and he knew that the vicar of that parish would be extremely pleased when he (the speaker) wrote and told him what wonderful workers he had coming to his parish. On behalf of those present and the many friends who had contributed to the presentation, he wished them all happiness in their new home. Mr. Leigh in responding on behalf of Mrs. Leigh and himself, said that it had always been the greatest plea-

sure to work in the parish. It was with great regret that they parted from their many friends, but he hoped they would retain their friendship all their lives. They would come back from time to time to renew old acquaintances and all would be welcome at Whangarei. For the beautiful gift he sincerely thanked them all. Mrs. Leigh also feelingly returned thanks. A presentation was also made to Master “Buster” Leigh from tho choir members, Mrs. Bryce, choir mistress, handing over the gift and expressing all good wishes. During the evening two competitions were held, the winners being Mr. L. S. F. Bell and Mrs. G. Tappin. A musical programme was contributed by the following:—-Piano-forte solo, Miss N. Wharmby; songs, Mrs. J. L. Brathwaite and Mr. E. Haldane; duet, Misses M. Robinson and B. Bryce; humorous songs, Mr. Len Wood and humorous monologues, Mr. F. V. Ward. Mr. Len Wood also conducted a short community sing. REV. W. A. BOOL FAREWELLED The opportunity was taken during the gathering in honour of Mr. and Mrs. E. H. Leigh to say farewell to the Rev. W. A. 8001, who leaves on Friday morning for Hawera, the Rev. Canon E. D. Rice stating what a great help Mr. 800 l had been to him during his term as his assistant in Waipukurau. He wished him every success in his future. Mr. 800 l in reply, thanked the Waipukurau folk for the wonderful time he had had here and for the good wishes expressed by Canon Rice. He appealed for helpets to maintain the grounds round the church and to make them the most beautiful in the diocese. A sumptuous supper was served by the ladies and after the singing of “Auld Lang Syne,” the floor was cleared and dancing was indulged in.