A well attended smoking concert was held at the New Inn, as a “send-off” to Private Wyndam Williams, son of Mr. John Williams, Fairview, Walter Road, who was home on short leave.
Mr. Williams has another son in the Army, and a third has unfortunately been killed.
Mr. Owen Madden occupied the chair, and conducted the programme very successfully, besides contributing a good chorus song. All the best known local singers gave their services, and the proceedings were very enjoyable.
During the evening a collection was made for the departing soldier, a sum of over £2 being realised, which the recipient and his father suitably acknowledged. Reference was made to the fact that it was the usual people who attended these smokers and contributed to the many gifts, while others had no opportunity to do so, and it was felt to be a discredit to the town that the Reception Committee appointed in conjunction with the Urban Council had made no movement to acknowledge the splendid services of the boys in khaki.
Councillor Bob Thomas, who was present, promised to again raise the matter in the Council.
Another smoker was given in the Castle Hotel, on Saturday evening, to Private G. Thomas, Wind Street, and was very successful.
On Monday there was a “send-off” for Private. T. Morgan at the Cross Inn Hotel.
